What is a Senior Plan & Verizon's Senior Plan?

A seniors plan is a specialized mobile phone plan tailored to the requirements of older adults. It typically offers discounted rates, additional features, and benefits that cater to the unique needs of seniors. It's a pretty standard addition among carriers for cell phone plans.

Verizon clearly understands the importance of providing discount options for seniors and specific data plans. So you'll be delighted to know that Verizon does offer a senior plan called the "Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan". Unfortunately, Verizon does not offer a Senior Internet plan.

Features of the Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan:

With the Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan, you get unlimited Verizon talk, text, and data. It includes nationwide coverage, so you can stay connected wherever you go.

Affordability:

This plan is affordable for seniors. The Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan offers discounted rates, making it a low-cost option compared to regular plans. An unlimited data plan is hard to argue with - because nobody wants to accrue additional fees on the Internet, but the total benefits of this plan just make sense for those eligible.

Requirements:

To be eligible for the Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan, you must be 55 or older and reside in one of the qualifying states where the plan is available.

Additional perks:

In addition to unlimited talk, text, and data, Verizon offers extra perks to enhance your mobile experience. These may include features like mobile hotspots, access to Verizon's extensive network, and more.

Choosing the right plan:

When considering a senior plan, evaluating your specific needs is important. Take into account your usage patterns, desired features, and budget. Verizon's customer service representatives can help you choose the best plan.

How to sign up:

Signing up for the Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan is simple. You can visit a Verizon store near you, visit the Verizon website, or call their customer service hotline to get started. The representatives will guide you through the process and answer any questions.

Can I switch to the Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan if I'm currently on another Verizon plan?

Yes, you can switch to the Verizon 55+ Unlimited Plan even if you're currently on another Verizon plan. Contact Verizon's customer service or visit a store to inquire about the process and make the switch.

Conclusion

If you're a senior citizen looking for a mobile phone plan tailored to your needs, Verizon's Senior Plan is worth considering. 

With affordable rates, unlimited talk, text, data, and additional perks, Verizon ensures you stay connected without breaking the bank. Stay connected and stay in touch with your loved ones with ease.

NOW READ: Best Verizon FIOS Routers in 2023

The program also enables you to send text messages via Wi-Fi or 3G/4G networks and can be a real lifesaver in situations where you need to recover the data located in an SMS.

Backup apps are essential tools for keeping your data safe.

They allow you to save your contacts, photos, music, and other information from your smartphone, and SMS Backup and Restore is a very useful tool that can help to keep your documents and files safe, secure and accessible.

What is SMS Backup and Restore?

SMS Backup and Restore is an innovative app which allows you to backup and restore SMS messages on your android phone.

It will not only backup all of your SMS messages but it will also backup any type of file such as contacts, call logs, notes, etc. This software is compatible with both rooted and non-rooted devices.

How Does SMS Backup And Restore Work?

This app works by using Google’s cloud servers. When you install this app, it connects to Google’s server and downloads all of your SMS messages.

Then, when you want to restore them, you just have to connect to the same server and download them again. You can choose whether you want to use Wi-Fi or a mobile network connection to do this.

Benefits of SMS Backup and Restore

​The main benefit of this app is its ability to backup and restore SMS Messages. If you lose your phone, then you won’t even notice that you lost your important messages because they will still be there in your Gmail account.

In addition to that, you can also use this app to back up and restore contacts, notes, call logs, browser bookmarks, and more.

Back-Up SMS Messages To Google Drive

Another option is to automatically back your SMS messages up to Google Drive, and this is fast and easy to achieve.

The main disadvantage here is that you will find that your data is restricted to Google Drive, and this can make it tricky if you are looking to share your data more widely, or with others on different platforms.

In addition, you should note that any older backups will gradually be deleted over time, and so you may lose very old messages - you are also unable to restore an older backup on your phone as and when you choose.

To backup SMS messages to Google Drive, you should start by tapping the Settings icon, and then swiping to reach the bottom. Then, tap Google and then Backup, and select the option to Backup Now.

This will instruct your device to automatically back up any SMS messages to Google Drive, allowing you to keep them safe temporarily.

This can be a great extra layer of protection to keep your data safe but is probably not the best choice if you are looking to save your messages in the long term, with an option to restore them at will.

How can I restore SMS messages?

Once you have your messages safely backed up, you can restore them on the device that you backed them up on, or on a new device.

Simply launch SMS Backup and Restore and then tap Restore - this will offer a list of backups, and you can opt which messages you are looking to restore.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to restore and save your SMS messages is important in allowing you to retrieve data and files, and SMS Backup and Restore is a great tool to simplify this process.

The short answer is, technically no - big emphasis on technically. While Samsung has already made announcements about the future of the Samsung Galaxy Note, it's important to keep in mind that there is a replacement model currently on the market.

Sometimes dubbed as a "phablet", the Samsung Galaxy Note offers the best of both worlds. With the addition of the S-pen, the Note models offer that tablet feel with the portability benefits of a smartphone. Alongside its infamous stylus, there are also a few notable features. For example its large AMOLED display, decent processor, and relatively long-lasting battery life.

Is Samsung Galaxy Note discontinued?

Unfortunately, yes. Samsung executives have already announced that the Galaxy Note phones are discontinued, but only the name. The last Samsung Galaxy Note was actually released back in 2020 - the Samsung Galaxy Note 20.

This change makes sense. The sales for the Galaxy Note were slowing down. Moreover, Samsung was looking to direct its focus on more revolutionary models. Most famously the Samsung Z Flip and Z Fold.

Still aware of their long-standing Note fans, Samsung decided to continue the model under a new name - the Ultra. The Samsung Galaxy S-series Ultra comes with the S-Pen, which inserts into the handset - just like the Note. It also features a similar user interface clearly backing up Samsung's claim that these new models are a Note replacement.

Is S23 Ultra out?

So since we know that there is technically no hope for a new Samsung Galaxy Note this year, what should we be looking out for instead?

As previously mentioned, the Note models are being revived through the Samsung Galaxy Ultras. Following this logic, the upcoming Samsung S23 Ultra will be the next in line, for those Note superfans looking to make an upgrade.

As it stands, the Samsung S23 is not out just yet. However, Samsung has scheduled the next Galaxy Unpacked event, which is set to take place on February 1st. At this event, we hope to see the release of the highly anticipated Galaxy S23 and S23+, the S23 Ultra.

The pre-order reserve list is also live on the Samsung site. So if you are looking to be the first in line to get this phone, do not hesitate to sign up.

Many rumors have been circulating that the pre-order date will be the 1st of February. Leading to the expected release date of the 17th of the same month. However, until Samsung makes an official announcement, we will never know for sure when these models will be released.

Is the Ultra replacing the Note?

Yes, essentially the Galaxy Ultra is replacing the old Galaxy Note. The Galaxy Ultra offers similar specs to the Note such as the S-Pen, a large display and a similar user interface.

Final Thoughts

Samsung has already announced the death of the Galaxy Note series. With the new replacement name, the Galaxy S-series Ultra, Note fans can still get ahold of the same features alongside the latest hardware and software upgrades.

We expect to see the release of the new Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra this coming February. So be sure to sign up for the Samsung pre-order reserve list, if you want to be one of the first with the new device.

The good news is, the Galaxy S22 can be charged wirelessly. The S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra all support up to 15W Qi Wireless Charging including Samsung's reverse wireless charging feature - PowerShare.

Wireless charging on Samsung smartphones is actually nothing new. The tech giant incorporated this feature on the Galaxy S6 back in 2015. Ever since then, every new Galaxy S-series smartphone has had this capability.

While wireless charging may not be an essential feature for some, it certainly offers convenience. By using wireless charging stands or pads you will never have to deal with pesky cables again. And we can't forget this added bonus - they often power up your smartphone more quickly and efficiently.

Best wireless chargers for the Galaxy S22

Are you tired of dealing with tangled cords? Well, look no further. We have got the best Galaxy S22 wireless chargers (Qi-compatible) for you below.

Plus, some of our top picks can charge multiple devices at once, so you can power up your gadgets in one convenient place.

Samsung wireless charging updates

We've heard rumors that Samsung is planning to release a new wireless charging accessory called "Hub". As the name suggests, this could charge multiple devices at once, including the Galaxy smartphone and other gadgets.

Speculation from GalaxyClub suggests that this new device could replace the current Wireless Charger Trio currently available on Samsung's website.

Additionally, it has also been reported that the hub has gained Bluetooth certification. Although it appears to be a rogue capability, this could suggest extra smart features, such as alerts for when devices are fully charged.

How do I turn on wireless charging on my S22?

To activate wireless charging on the S22, first head to the Setting app. Next, tap on Battery and More Battery Settings. At this point, activate the Fast Wireless Charging tab. And, that's it!

How fast can S22 charge wirelessly?

According to users, the S22 can charge wirelessly to 100% battery in roughly 2 hours.

Which charger is best for Samsung S22?

If you are looking for the best charger for the Galaxy S22 we recommend opting for a 45W charger to take advantage of Samsung's Super Fast Charging. For wireless charging make sure it is Samsung Qi-compatible to get the best experience.

Final Thoughts

The Samsung Galaxy S22 comes with an array of advanced features, and we are happy to say that wireless charging is one of them. With various rumors circulating, we hope to see an update to Samsung's current wireless charging accessories. But until Samsung breaks the news, we can only speculate.

If you found this article useful, be sure to check out our other Samsung Galaxy articles here.

As of writing, Samsung has made an official statement outlining the new Galaxy S23 features. Much like current smartphones on the market, the Galaxy S23 comes with some form of water resistance. IP68 water resistance to be exact.

What does rated IP68 mean?

As we have mentioned, we expect the new Galaxy S23 to have the best water resistance protection available for smartphones. The IP68 rating, which is currently also on the Galaxy S22 means the phone is protected against dust and water.

The first number tells us how well the phone is protected against foreign objects, aka dust. In this case, the number six is the best dust resistance rating on the IP scale.

What about the eight, you may ask? Well, the number eight indicates that the phone is water resistant to a depth of up to 1.5 metres for up to 30 minutes. This is a pretty high IP rating and is relatively common nowadays.

Bare in mind, that these water resistance ratings only apply to fresh water. So don't go dunking your phone in your coffee or the sea!

What is IP rating?

The IP (Ingress Protection or International Protection) rating tells us the level of dust and water resistance a device has. These ratings are run by the International Electrotechnical Commission. In order to get an IP rating, products must go through a variety of tests to receive their score.

The first digit in the score relates to the device's ability to protect against foreign particles, such as dust. Where the second digit indicates the level of water resistance the product has. Most advanced smartphones commonly come with a rating of IP68 or IP67.

Can I use my S23 in the shower?

The Galaxy S23 is rated water-resistant and not waterproof. However, it does have a rating of IP68 so technically your phone should be ok in the shower. Although to preserve the longevity and quality of your smartphone, we recommend not taking your Galaxy S23 in the shower. Especially, if your phone has any cracks or dents that could invalidate the IP68 rating.

Final Thoughts

It is safe to say that the new smartphone is water-resistant, with a rating of IP68. We have also found a bunch of Galaxy S23 features online. So if you are looking to find out what else the S23 has to offer, read here.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra will be the premium model in the S23 series. At the time of writing, Samsung has not officially launched this device but this doesn't mean we can't have a look at the smartphone's expected specs.

The previous model, the Galaxy S22 Ultra is a very powerful and versatile phone. TechRadar even eluded to it being the best smartphone of its time, giving it 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

This is clearly a very strong score. But, it is no surprise. The S22 Ultra boasts an outstanding camera system with Space Zoom technology and a bright, vivid display.

The Galaxy S22 Ultra does fall a bit short in other areas though. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor is slightly inferior to the iPhone 14 Pro Max's A16 Bionic chip. 

And as for battery life. Well, the capabilities are not where we want them to be. Considering the Galaxy S22 Ultra comes with a 5,000 mAh battery, we expect the smartphone to have exceptional battery performance. But, in reality, the smartphone can only really last a full day.

With all things considered, assuming the Galaxy S23 Ultra will come with a few minor upgrades in most areas, it seems that the new smartphone will most likely be a pretty great phone. Let's take a further look at the rumored specs to gain a better view.

Galaxy S23 specifications (predicted)

There are a few major upgrades that we cannot ignore. Firstly, the main camera. Samsung is expected to keep most of the camera hardware the same on the S23 series, but the S23 Ultra will get an upgrade.

We expect to see a new 200MP main camera on the device, which is a major improvement compared to the 108MP resolution on the S22 Ultra.

Next, let's look at the processor. We are getting the newer Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. For reference, the S22 Ultra used a mixture of Samsung's Exynos processor and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1.

How is the new Qualcomm chipset different? It is said to have 35% faster performance and 40% improved efficiency compared to the previous generation. So, a pretty big upgrade in this area too.

As for all the other specs, it seems that Samsung is planning to rely on the S22 Ultra's specs. However, we may see an upgrade to the screen with the addition of an Ultra Dynamic Range or UDR panel - resulting in a much brighter beautiful display.

Conclusion

If the rumored specs are proven to be true, the S23 Ultra looks to be a pretty amazing smartphone. However, until it's confirmed we'll reserve judgment. Samsung will be releasing the features of the new Galaxy S23 this week.

Once the smartphone has become live, we will be updating this page with the most up-to-date information. So, be sure to revisit this article after the launch event to find out whether the S23 Ultra is worth the upgrade.

Samsung has held a firm spot as one of the best smartphone producers on the market. Their cameras always perform well and set the standard for what we expect from our mobile devices. Its predecessor, the Galaxy S22 has a phenomenal camera. During its release, we saw small effective improvements, particularly in low-light photography.

At one point last year, it even held the spot as the best smartphone camera on the market. Although, as the year wrapped up the Google Pixel 6a soon took that top position. Let's have a look at the released camera specifications on the new Galaxy S23.

Galaxy S23 camera specs

Thanks to Samsung, we have a full picture of how these cameras shape up. Bear in mind, we have not had the chance to use the phones ourselves, so we will just have to go off the details Samsung has provided.

It looks like Samsung sent most of its camera updates to the S23 Ultra. The premium flagship gets a monster upgrade of a 200MP main camera with up to 10x optical zoom.

Expect to see better nighttime photography, higher-res images, and quicker autofocus. The S23 Ultra's video stabilization will also get an upgrade thanks to the wider OIS angle.

The S23 and S23+ cameras are still pretty impressive at 50MP and 3x optical zoom. However, we only witnessed a few upgrades at Samsung's launch event this week. The two smartphones will be able to shoot videos at 8K 30fps - an upgrade from 8K 24fps on the S22.

All the models will receive a new 12MP selfie camera, set to improve nighttime portraits. This camera will also support Super HDR and video shooting at 4K 60fps.

Those who enjoy astrophotography will be glad to hear that Samsung has launched a new feature called Astro Hyperlapse. It allows you to take a time-lapse video starting at 300x speed at night. This is a pretty neat feature and will allow you to capture unique star trails.

Final thoughts

On the topic of whether the Galaxy S23 camera will be better than the Galaxy S22 - it most definitely will be. Samsung is great at releasing competitive cameras and we expect nothing less from the new flagship.

But, until we get a proper hands-on look at the phone we won't truly know how well the camera holds up. If grabbing this new smartphone is something you are looking to do. Be sure to read our page showing you how to Reserve the Samsung Galaxy S23 now.

We can safely say, the Galaxy S23 is 5G-ready. Samsung's current flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S22 already has this technology, so why would the Galaxy S23 be any different?

What will 5G do?

5G is a new faster network that was introduced back in 2019. It is the 5th generation mobile network that pledges to deliver higher peak data speeds, lower latency, and a network capacity a hundred times better than 4G.

But that's not all, response times are also better on 5G. 4G response times are around fifty milliseconds whereas 5G features a massive upgrade of just one millisecond. In a world that is heavily internet-driven, this improvement is vital.

5G technology is now seen as the industry standard. Most mobile carriers in the US offer 5G coverage in most states although coverage can be sparse. Furthermore, it is no surprise that the Galaxy S23 has 5G capabilities - this feature is now common among most leading smartphones.

What is the difference between 5G and 5G mmWave?

When you connect your phone to 5G you are actually connecting to one of two types of networks - mmWave 5G or Sub-6 5G. Despite both being 5G networks, they have different speeds and ranges.

Sub-6 5G operates at frequencies below 6GHz, similar to previous networks such as 4G and 3G. Because of this, Sub-6 5G doesn't give you that drastic upgrade you may be expecting.

Sub-6 5G is typically the 5G network you connect to. Most 5G carriers opt to use this network as it is easier to set up, only requiring a few upgrades to existing network towers.

On the other hand, mmWave 5G operates at a drastically higher frequency range, between 30 to 300GHz. Unfortunately, deploying this network is much more difficult. We can't simply update existing 4G towers to support this network. This is why the roll-out is much slower.

Thankfully, the current Galaxy S22 does support both networks. And you'll be glad to hear that this is the same on Galaxy S23.

Final Thoughts

So it looks like the Galaxy S23 will support 5G technology. As the release date gradually creeps upon us, why not find out how to reserve your Samsung per-order slot here?

Unfortunately, from what we know, the S23 won't have expandable memory. The Galaxy S22, which was the previous flagship model, has many impressive features, but expandable memory isn't one of them.

Therefore, it is no surprise that Samsung did not include this feature in their latest flagship. This is a bit of a bummer, but then again expandable memories are a thing of the past.

Samsung seems to be following in Apple's footsteps. The tech giant stopped supporting expandable storage on the S-series back in 2021. The last model with a micro-SD slot was actually the Galaxy S20.

Despite this, the new Galaxy S23 has three internal storage options - 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. This is normally sufficient storage for most. Although if you wish to increase this, you may have to opt for an external flash drive.

To accompany the Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung has opened the Galaxy S23 pre-order list. So, if you want to bag yourself a $50 saving and be the first with the new smartphone, be sure to sign up.

Galaxy S23 features

We can safely say the Galaxy S23 does not have expandable storage, but what other features does it have?

Each year we see the release of a new and improved flagship smartphone from Samsung. This year is no exception. Luckily, we have done all the hard work for you. Here are all the Galaxy S23 features below:

Can I put an SD card in my S23?

Unfortunately, you cannot insert an SD card into the Galaxy S23 because it does not have expandable storage.

Why did Samsung get rid of the SD card slot?

It is not completely clear why Samsung decided to remove the SD card slot from their phones. But considering their main competitors stopped it a long time ago, it's no surprise that Samsung also jumped on the bandwagon.

Some speculate that the removal was due to the fact that SD cards are much slower than built-in internal storage. Therefore, in order to speed up the smartphone's functions, Samsung decided to remove it. Additionally, having an SD card slot places limitations on how sleek and thin you can make the smartphone, which could have also played a role in its removal.

It is also a good financial move. If you restrict customers' ability to upgrade their storage when they see fit, it means you can set the price for each storage level.

How much storage does the Samsung S23 have?

The Samsung S23 comes with two storage options: 128GB and 256GB.

Final Thoughts

Sadly, the new Galaxy S23 will not have expandable storage. Samsung seems to have adopted Apple's stance on expandable memories - which is a shame. Leading up to the official release date, do not forget to sign-up for Samsung's pre-order list to be the first to receive the device.

Samsung finally launched the Galaxy S23 yesterday and released its features. So let's see, whether the Galaxy S23 will have dual SIM capabilities.

At the moment, Samsung's previous flagship model, the Galaxy S22 does come with dual SIM slots. Undoubtedly, it is a useful feature and the good news is this will continue on the new Galaxy S23!

However, according to Samsung, not all countries will have access to a dual SIM model. Although, we can confirm that it is available in the United States.

How do I use dual SIM on Samsung?

Dual SIM capabilities on Samsung phones are nothing new. Their competitor, Apple has only recently allowed their users to use two SIMs (physical SIM and eSIM) on their iPhones. But, Samsung is different. They've had dual SIM technology for some time now.

Depending on your country you will either have a dual SIM tray in your smartphone or a single SIM tray. On the dual SIM Galaxy S23 model, you have the following options: One Nano SIM and one eSIM, two Nano SIMs and one eSIM, or two Nano SIMs.

As you would expect, dual SIM trays allow for the insertion of two separate SIM cards in one tray. Samsung smartphones let you choose which SIM is the primary and which is the secondary, with the primary SIM typically being used for calls, messaging, and data usage.

As the name suggests, eSIMs allow you to access a mobile plan without the need for a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting your SIM card into your smartphone, eSIMs work by integrating the SIM technology virtually from the carrier.

To take advantage of Samsung's eSIM capability you will have to activate it in your settings. By heading to "SIM card manager" and tapping "Add mobile plan" you will be able to activate your eSIM plan there.

In 2022, Apple actually ditched the physical SIM tray entirely on their iPhone 14 - only in the USA. However, looking to the future we do not expect Samsung to be as daring.

Does the Galaxy S23 Ultra have dual SIM?

Yes, just like the Galaxy S23, the S23 Ultra is dual SIM compatible.

What is the disadvantage of dual SIM in Samsung?

Using the dual SIM feature on your Samsung can have a few drawbacks. Firstly, it will cause your battery to drain faster as your phone may struggle to support both SIMs. Additionally, you may experience compatibility issues as some dual SIM phones don't work with certain network providers and you may not be able to access all its features.

Final Thoughts

So there we have it! The Samsung Galaxy S23 does have dual SIM capabilities. Although, this is not available in every country.

If you want to bag yourself an early deal, be sure to read our page on how to Reserve the Samsung Galaxy S23 now.

Samsung uses Qi Wireless Charging on their current flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S23. All their models in the series, the S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra support up to 15W wireless charging, including Samsung's revolutionary reverse wireless charging feature - the PowerShare.

Wireless charging is a high-end feature and is actually nothing new for the tech giant. Samsung introduced this technology back in 2015 on the Galaxy S6. Since then, every new Galaxy S-series smartphone has been blessed with this feature.

Now that the preorder for the new flagships is well underway, we have an updated view of the Galaxy S23's charging specs:

Samsung Qi wireless charging 

Developed by Wireless Power Consortium, the Qi ("chee") wireless charging method began back in 2009. Its technology is used by a bunch of leading phones including the Samsung Galaxy range and Google Pixel.

The way Qi Wireless Charging works can be a little confusing. But, to summarize, the technology relies on "closely coupled" electromagnetic induction. Placing a phone on a Qi-certified charger, triggers an inductive form of power transfer between the pad and your smartphone - charging your device without the need for a cable.

Samsung currently uses this technology in their previous flagship phone, Galaxy S22. And we expect to see nothing less on the new Galaxy S23.

Samsung wireless charging updates

We have some exciting news to share about upcoming wireless charging accessories from Samsung. There are rumors that Samsung is building a new wireless charging accessory, named "Hub".

As the name suggests, we expect this accessory to have the ability to charge multiple devices at once. This may include the Galaxy phone and other gadgets like the Samsung smartwatch.

News from GalaxyClub suggests this new device could replace the current Wireless Charger Trio, which is available on the Samsung website. Additionally, there are also reports of the new accessory gaining Bluetooth certification. This may be a surprising new add-on, however, it could suggest additional smart features - maybe the potential to send alerts when devices are fully charged.

Keep in mind that these are all rumors. However, with the launch of the Galaxy S23 this February, we hope that Samsung will release more news about this accessory very soon.

How fast is S23 wireless charging?

According to various sources, the Galaxy S23 takes roughly two hours and a half to charge to full using a wireless charger.

Does S23 have super fast charging?

Yes, the Galaxy S23 does support super-fast charging. To use this feature, you must have a charging cable that supports Samsung's adaptive fast charging with a power capacity of 45 watts.

Is 45W charger faster than 25W?

As you would expect, a 45W charger does deliver faster charging. However according to reports, this difference is negligible. Some have reported that opting for a 45W charger saves you a maximum of four minutes in overall charging time - which is not that impressive in the grand scheme of things.

Final Words

The Galaxy S23 is finally here! We can safely say that the wireless charging feature is here to stay in the Galaxy S-series.

Our experts at PC Guide have been searching the web to bring you the latest news on the new flagship. If you are looking to find out what other specs are on the Galaxy S23, read here.

All three smartphones will feature upgrades to their processor, low-light photography, and screen quality. Quite importantly, however, Samsung fans will be happy to hear that there is also an improvement to the battery life.

Jumping straight to the technicalities, the S23 will receive a 200mAh battery increase. The new model will feature a new 3,900mAh battery compared to the 3,700mAh on the Galaxy S22.

Unsurprisingly, the S23+ and S23 Ultra will sport bigger batteries. The S23+ gets a 200mAh upgrade from 4,500mAh on the S22+ to 4,700mAh on the newer model.

As for the S23 Ultra, unfortunately, there's no upgrade here. The premium flagship will retain the same battery as before - 5000mAh.

Galaxy S23 battery life

We have already seen that the S23 and S23+ will receive physically larger batteries, whereas the S23 Ultra will remain the same. But, that's not all. There are also a number of upgrades to these models that will contribute to their overall battery performance.

The new Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and AMOLED screen will mean the battery life on the S23 series will outperform the S22 models. According to Samsung's official estimates, the Galaxy S23 will have the following video playback times:

Interestingly, the S23 Ultra falls behind expectations. However, if Samsung's estimates are true, all three smartphones should last at least one day on a full charge.

Galaxy S23 specs

Other than the battery life, what else could we expect from the upcoming flagship? We have reviewed Samsung's current specs so you don't have to. So, here is a list of features on the Galaxy S23:

How long does the Samsung S23 battery last?

The Samsung S23 battery life varies depending on the model. According to Samsung, the Galaxy S23 lasts up to 22hrs, the S23+ 27 hrs, and the S23 Ultra up to 26 hrs.

Which S23 has the best battery?

As you would expect, the Galaxy S23 Ultra has the best battery. It features the largest battery capacity (5,000 mAh) out of all the models. During tests, the S23 Ultra also lasted the longest for web browsing and video streaming compared to the S23 and S23+.

Does the Galaxy S23 have reverse wireless charging?

Yes, just like the Galaxy S22, the new Galaxy S23 does support reverse wireless charging. This neat feature allows you to turn your smartphone into a power bank. Essentially, allowing you to charge other devices using your S23 battery.

Final Thoughts

The battery life of the Galaxy S23 is finally confirmed - and it is looking pretty promising. At the time of writing, the new smartphones are still in their pre-order phase, so until we are able to test the phones ourselves we will not truly know how these models shape up.

Our experts at PC Guide have been scouring the internet for updates about the new S23. So why not read another article here?

Similar to Samsung's previous flagship model, the S22, the new Galaxy S23 does have an AMOLED display. A Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O Display to be exact. The smartphone features beautiful realistic colors, excellent image quality, and a bright adaptive display.

According to Samsung, the new screen will be able to achieve a peak brightness of 1,750 nits which will improve the contrast between light and dark elements of digital content.

But, that's not all. The smartphone will also feature a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio, creating a more "immersive" experience for its users. Are you unsure of the true meaning of AMOLED? Keep reading to find out more.

What is Samsung AMOLED?

Samsung's AMOLED is a revolutionary display technology. AMOLED is actually a type of OLED screen that provides more advanced features. Such as a thinner more flexible design, and faster refresh rates than a traditional OLED display.

An AMOLED screen has other benefits, including higher color contrast, intensive color gamut, and reduction in blue light. Samsung has actually transitioned out of using traditional AMOLED screens in their smartphones. Replacing them with their very own Super AMOLED display.

Super AMOLED is much more sophisticated. It sets itself apart by integrating the touch screen directly into the display, a feature not on the first-generation AMOLED.

It also has a more enhanced image quality, providing a more vivid, responsive display that can adjust to different environments. This type of screen is currently the best on the market and is already on the Galaxy S22.

Galaxy S23 display

Each year Samsung brings us the best new displays the industry can offer. With the recent release of the Galaxy S23 series, the tech giant will most likely do even better.

Samsung has announced that the S23 will have a 6.1-inch Flat FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O Display, HDR10+, with up to 120Hz refresh rate. You'll be happy to know that HDR10+ is recognized by many popular streaming sites, meaning you can stream videos easily at up to 1080p.

Which is better OLED or AMOLED?

AMOLED is actually a type of OLED screen that provides more vibrant and vivid images. Typically, AMOLED screens are considered better due to the fact that they are more energy efficient, have faster refresh rates, and have better video quality than OLED.

Does AMOLED last long?

Unfortunately, AMOLED screens are prone to degradation. Generally, they can last between five to eight years assuming you are using your smartphone for roughly twelve hours a day.

Final Thoughts

So that's all we know about the Galaxy S23's display so far. Samsung already has the Galaxy S23 pre-order list up on their website. To find out how to join and bag yourself a $50 saving, read here.

The upcoming Galaxy S23 has a beautiful 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. It is the greatest Dynamic AMOLED technology currently on the market, which supports Samsung's famous flexible screen capabilities.

Whether or not the Galaxy S23 is scratch-proof or scratch-resistant boils down to the smartphone's construction. AMOLED technology refers to the actual capabilities of the screen. It is responsible for anything to do with how the screen illuminates, the colors displayed, the refresh rate, etc.

Scratch-proofing or scratch resistance is to do with, you guessed it, trusty Gorilla Glass. As it currently stands, the Galaxy S23 does have Gorilla Glass in the phone's construction. This actually sits on top of the AMOLED screen, protecting it from scratches and damage.

Does Samsung Galaxy S23 have Gorilla Glass?

You'll be happy to hear that the new Galaxy S23 will have Gorilla Glass Victus 2. This is an upgrade to the S22's Gorilla Glass Victus Plus panels.

According to Samsung, this upgrade will mean these Galaxy flagship phones will deliver improved "drop performance" on rugged surfaces.

Unfortunately, Gorilla Glass only makes the smartphone scratch-resistant and not scratch-proof. If this is a particular concern for you, the best option to protect your screen would be to buy an additional screen protector.

What is Gorilla Glass?

Gorilla Glass is a durable, scratch-resistant technology mainly used on smartphones and tablets to protect screens. They are strengthened with alkali-aluminosilicate, are lightweight, and are compatible with touch screens.

The Galaxy S23 uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 panels which are, according to Corning, the toughest Gorilla Glass yet. But don't be fooled. The S23 is probably the most resilient Galaxy S-series out right now, but damaging the screen is easier than you think.

A drop test conducted by GSMArena, found the Galaxy S23 cracked when dropped at waist height - not great news. Surprisingly, the Galaxy S23 was still usable after this test. Nonetheless, this is not the durability we were expecting.

Final Thoughts

We can safely say the new Galaxy S23 will have Gorilla Glass. Although, it is worth mentioning that the upcoming smartphone will be scratch resistant and not scratch-proof.

If securing this new smartphone quickly is something you are keen to do, why not read our page where we show you how to Reserve the Samsung Galaxy S23?

The upcoming Galaxy S23 has a beautiful 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. It is the greatest Dynamic AMOLED technology currently on the market, which supports Samsung's famous flexible screen capabilities.

Whether or not the Galaxy S23 is scratch-proof or scratch-resistant boils down to the smartphone's construction. AMOLED technology refers to the actual capabilities of the screen. It is responsible for anything to do with how the screen illuminates, the colors displayed, the refresh rate, etc.

Scratch-proofing or scratch resistance is to do with, you guessed it, trusty Gorilla Glass. As it currently stands, the Galaxy S23 does have Gorilla Glass in the phone's construction. This actually sits on top of the AMOLED screen, protecting it from scratches and damage.

Does Samsung Galaxy S23 have Gorilla Glass?

You'll be happy to hear that the new Galaxy S23 will have Gorilla Glass Victus 2. This is an upgrade to the S22's Gorilla Glass Victus Plus panels.

According to Samsung, this upgrade will mean these Galaxy flagship phones will deliver improved "drop performance" on rugged surfaces.

Unfortunately, Gorilla Glass only makes the smartphone scratch-resistant and not scratch-proof. If this is a particular concern for you, the best option to protect your screen would be to buy an additional screen protector.

What is Gorilla Glass?

Gorilla Glass is a durable, scratch-resistant technology mainly used on smartphones and tablets to protect screens. They are strengthened with alkali-aluminosilicate, are lightweight, and are compatible with touch screens.

The Galaxy S23 uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 panels which are, according to Corning, the toughest Gorilla Glass yet. But don't be fooled. The S23 is probably the most resilient Galaxy S-series out right now, but damaging the screen is easier than you think.

A drop test conducted by GSMArena, found the Galaxy S23 cracked when dropped at waist height - not great news. Surprisingly, the Galaxy S23 was still usable after this test. Nonetheless, this is not the durability we were expecting.

Final Thoughts

We can safely say the new Galaxy S23 will have Gorilla Glass. Although, it is worth mentioning that the upcoming smartphone will be scratch resistant and not scratch-proof.

If securing this new smartphone quickly is something you are keen to do, why not read our page where we show you how to Reserve the Samsung Galaxy S23?

This year, Samsung is set to release a new lineup of smartphones that are sure to knock your socks off. From folding screens to high-spec cameras, these devices are ready to break the boundaries set by past smartphones.

For all you Samsung enthusiasts out there, watch out, as we anticipate the release of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S23, Z Flip 5, and Z Fold 5. Keep on reading our article so you don't miss out on the opportunity to grab yourself the latest generation smartphone.

What to expect from Samsung in 2023?

Of course, we expect the release of a bunch of new phones from Samsung this year. When it comes to Samsung's next generation of mobile devices, many rumors are already circulating.

Here is the list of expected models and release dates of the upcoming iterations of Samsung's current smartphone selection.

Take this list with a pinch of salt. These are our expectations based on past history.

Samsung Galaxy S23, S23+ and S23 Ultra

The unveiling of the Samsung Galaxy S23 series is likely to be the first smartphone launch of the year. Following Samsung's past release date schedule we expect to see this launch happen sometime this February.

Rumors have already been circulating that the phone will be available in stores around February 17th but of course, this cannot be confirmed.

Looking at expected costs, we would not be surprised if the next generation follows a similar pattern to the S22 and S21 release prices. Making the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra sit at the premium price point and the S23 at the lowest.

As with every update, we expect the new model to hold a very close resemblance to the current S22 design. With some design leaks already surfacing on the internet, it looks as though Samsung has invested more in the internal upgrades than external.

Leakers have also suggested upgrades in the screen quality - hinting at new AMOLED screens and a refresh rate of 120Hz. If this is true, expect to see a better, more colorful, and brighter screen on these devices.

Hints have also been coming through about Samsung's choice in using the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip exclusively this year - but these again are all rumors.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5

Now we couldn't forget Samsung's revolutionary folding smartphones. Following the systematic release of the models every summer, we will be sure to expect the latest Z Flip and Fold this year.

Just like the last two releases, we hope to see the launch event in early August and the subsequent release date at the end of the month. Again with pricing, just like the previous models we expect to see these phones priced between $1,000 to $2,200.

For both phones, we aren't anticipating any crazy changes to come. For the Galaxy Z Fold 5, we anticipate that Samsung will try to reduce the folded crease to create a more sleek design.

As for the Galaxy Z Flip 5, we hope Samsung makes more improvements to the cover screen. This was a frequent complaint from Flip users. Also, we would love to see some internal upgrades to the smartphone's processor and battery capabilities.

Final Thoughts

So here is the list of expected upcoming new Samsung phones in 2023. We also predict Samsung to produce some more budget-friendly options. Be sure to frequently check out our guides to get the latest on upcoming Samsung smartphone releases.

Reminiscent of the old-school flip phones the new smartphone has struck a chord with those who long for the good old days. With its sleek, foldable design, you can easily flip it open to access a full touch-screen display. Or fold it down to slip it into a pocket or bag.

Whether you're a Samsung fanatic or just looking for a new savvy smartphone, the Samsung Z Flip is definitely an attractive choice. Let's see if there will be a new version of this model in 2023.

Will Samsung Release Another Flip?

The current Samsung Z Flip 4 was released pretty recently - August 2022. Considering the fact that we are already on the third generation of this phone, it is not a bad assumption to expect Samsung to release an updated version next August.

Samsung has shown to work on a regular schedule. The announcement of the Flips tends to happen within the first 10 days of August. Leading to the official release date at the end of the month. So it looks like we will not actually know if the Z Flip 5 is coming until this coming summer!

How much does the Samsung Z Flip cost?

At the moment the Samsung store is doing a sale, which is why the Z Flip 4 is currently at a more attractive price than the Z Flip 3 in some cases. Looking at the trend in release price, however, it would be wise for us to expect the next Z Flip 5 to be within the $1,000 - $1,200 range. This is, of course, speculation.

If you are looking to upgrade to the Galaxy Flip, be sure to check other sites such as Amazon and Best Buy for the latest deals. Normally, the previous models' prices seem to drop once the latest model gets released. So if you are in no rush and want the best price possible, why not see how the Z Flip 4 or Z Flip 3 prices vary closer to August this year?

Final Thoughts

As it stands, Samsung has not released any new information or hints that a new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 will be coming this summer. However, looking at the previous trends from last year, it would not surprise us if the next iteration of the Z Flip will bless our pockets this coming August.

We all likely already know that the SIM card often has something to do with our phone number, and we know we don’t get signal nor access to our telephone number unless our specific SIM card is installed.

But what actually is a SIM card and how does it complete all these functions?

Read on to learn more about your phone as well as how to get the most out of it.

What Is A SIM Card?

Put simply, a SIM card is a piece of hardware, a physical component that has to physically be part of your phone for certain operations to function.

SIM stands for Subscriber Identity Module, they have a unique ID number or IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) which uniquely identifies your phone to the network you are using, allowing them to provide signal, and connect to mobile internet services such as 3G, and 4G.

To simplify this, your SIM card can be treated as the hardware that is associated with your phone number and its unique relationship with your network.

Without your SIM card you cannot message anyone, nor will your contacts be saved, and importantly you won’t be able to make calls or texts without this connection to your network.

This SIM card is basically your ID card that you need to get into the mobile network club so you can talk to your friends, without this they don’t know who you are and can’t track you or provide you with an accurate phone bill.

This network is known as the GMS or Global System of Mobile Communications. This is the network we rely on for texts and phone calls.

Why Are SIM Cards Useful?

One big reason people don’t get SIM cards is that they fail to understand its physicality. That is to say their physical function in the phone isn’t clear.

This is because a SIM card could technically exist as a piece of software, however its physicality gives it lots of advantages.

Firstly, having a physical card allows you to transfer it between phones. In emergencies, if your phone is dead and you are stuck in the outback or something, you can transfer your SIM card to another phone so that you can still access your contact list.

Secondly, having your SIM be a physical thing means that you can also transfer it between phones when you upgrade. If the SIM card was a bit of software, transferring them between phones can really be troublesome.

Thirdly, this can form a big part of a phone’s security. If you wanted to wipe your texts from a phone or you were worried about your phone being monitored, which is unlikely, but this allows you to physically break your SIM card and get rid of this connection to a network. Hard drives are often physical for this reason, so you can destroy them.

Lastly, this means your phone company can easily make sure your SIM card is frozen, protecting your personal data and information, if your phone has been stolen or lost.

Final Thoughts

What’s clear is that the SIM card is a well thought out piece of hardware that physical nature affords many advantages to the phone and its users. Without a SIM card we wouldn’t be able to connect to the mobile network we rely on to send text messages and phone calls.

You can still connect to the internet without a SIM card, but you cannot use 3G or 4G.

Google is actually a play on the word ‘Googol’, a number equal to 10 to the 100th power. Long story short, it’s a ridiculously long number, something that Google monopolized when it revolutionized the search engine market back in 1998.

Today, Google handles more than 70% of the internets search traffic, and there’s a good reason why the Californian tech firm is a major authority, backlinking. Think back to school/college/university, any paper or piece of research needed to be credited and referenced correctly. This, in turn, added credibility to the paper a student would write or read from another source.

Backlinking is a website's take on referencing and crediting. These days, people won’t (or shouldn’t) take a piece of news seriously unless there’s a linked source, regardless of the subject. This is where Larry Page and Sergey Brin saw a gap in how the internet was navigated.

Rather than search for a key headline or word, which more often than not brought up anything but relevant information, why not look at how many backlinks a website has. This would in turn represent how much authority said site or page had regarding the relevant search, which would provide accurate search results.

What was Google originally named?

This idea took flight sooner rather than later, leading to the original version of Google, known as BackRub, taking up all of Stanford's bandwidth. Although it was an amazing feat to take down such a large internet network at the time considering the internets infancy, why BackRub?

Remember when we covered how Google works today? Well, backlink checking and converting websites into relevant search results was the plan back then too. Backlinking, BackRub, Get it? Anyway, this winning formula soon took Page and Brin out of a Stanford dorm room and into Google HQ in Mountain View, California.

Google is one of Silicon Valleys' biggest titans alongside Apple, IBM, and Microsoft both at its inception and even more so today. Page and Brin however didn’t remain in the picture and chose to step away from the company, but that’s didn’t slow it down.

Growing from a developer first to a software and hardware company, Google still keeps its search engine at the core of its business. In fact, they’d be silly not to, Google search makes its money through its incredible ad revenue, which provided the majority of revenue from its parent company Alphabet back in 2016.

For more information on Google's handheld operating system Android alongside some great how-to guides, make sure to visit and bookmark our Android hub. 

What is an Android ROM?

The beauty of open-source software is the chance to (legally) make it better in practically every way by modifying the source code. In this case, the source code is also known as an Android ROM. It’s the operating system that allows your handset to function, much like how Windows or macOS works. 

It was commonplace not so long ago to root a brand new Android phone and flash (install) a custom ROM straight out of the box. The two biggest reasons consumers install a custom Android ROM is to get rid of OEM bloatware, improve battery life, and increase overall performance.

Bloatware is all of those apps that you’ll never use that come pre-installed on most Android devices. That’s OEMs for you, making sure you know their products and applications are the best when consumers will probably know otherwise.

The benefits of OEM Android

OEMs also like to modify Android OS to put their own mark on it. Samsungs OneUI and Realme UI 3.0 are a couple of examples. From giving Android a facelift and changing its menu systems to shoehorning their own app stores in for some of that sweet market share, there are also some benefits to having an OEM Android OS.

Firstly, they’ll be fine-tuned to the handsets camera and other features. Buying a new handset these days means buying into said smartphone’s gimmick, such as a specially designed camera or speakers. Some of these tech features require certain elements of the OEM Android ROM to run properly, so flashing a custom Android ROM may reduce or stop the functionality of these features.

OEM Android OS has also introduced some great features not found in stock Android ROMs in the past, with multi-tasking and menu optimizations being at the forefront. There are also tweaks that make the features of your particular handset shine as mentioned above. If you do decide to flash a custom Android ROM on a brand new handset, this will probably void your warranty. Weigh up your options and what features you’ll lose by unlocking Android OS via bootloader.

Pick a budget or older handset

To properly reap the benefits of installing a custom Android ROM, we’d recommend modifying a budget handset or an older generation handset. Latest generation handsets lose a lot of their features by being flashed with a custom Android ROM, and frankly, it’s a waste of time spending a fortune to then dull the experience.

Looking at some of the best custom Android ROMs, older handsets such as Samsung Galaxy S7 and budget handsets such as Xiaomi/Red Note and One Plus seem like safe bets. These handsets will only benefit from custom Android ROMS, certainly older handsets that are no longer supported. Also, it can be a great way of getting Android 12 experiences running on old hardware efficiently.

Is it safe?

Users from major OEM brands can expect support for the first two to three years of the handsets life but are left in the dark after that. Not receiving security updates is a big problem with stock Android ROMS, which is why flashing custom ROMs on old and budget/unbranded Android handsets is a great option.

When it comes to Android safety, anything can be breached or hacked with enough know-how or perseverance. Online and digital safety is all about putting practices and software/hardware in place to make it harder, or to prevent issues. This is why handsets and other tech receive firmware and operating system updates to cover up any potential security holes or exploits.

As we’ve previously mentioned, Android is an open-source operating system. This means its code and stock ROM are available to the general public for others to mod and update as they see fit.

Custom Android ROMs take up a small portion of the Android OS pool, with OEM and Google Android OS taking the crown. This means someone will malicious intent will likely want to cast a wider net, so the chances are they won’t be targeting the latest build of Lineage OS or Pixelexperience in the first place. Other than this, make sure you’re downloading the real ROM from the official source and not another website or P2P method such as torrents.

Should you install an Android alternative?

Of course, this is down to personal preference. If you’re looking to breathe new life into an older, unsupported handset, or wish to flash a budget handset and get rid of all of that annoying bloatware, go for it. 

However, most flagship and high-end handsets run really well. Also, OEM Android OS will be custom-made to accommodate the features of your particular handsets. This means flashing it will likely harm your Android experience rather than improve it.

For all things Android, make sure to keep an eye on (and bookmark) our Android and News hubs here at PC Guide.