You Inquired: Current smartphone design trends, Slate Truck issues, and soundbars priced below $600.

      In today’s You Asked segment: What can we expect from the new Slate Truck and its possible availability? Is it deserving of the attention it’s receiving? Why does it seem that smartphone design and innovation have stagnated recently? And what draws directors to the ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio for films?

      Slate Truck Overview with John McCann

      Several of you have reached out regarding the availability of the new Slate Truck. I’ll explain the preorder process shortly, but first, let’s get everyone informed about this newly launched electric vehicle. What is it? What sets it apart? And why is it attracting so much attention?

      This truck is being marketed as an electric vehicle that will cost under $20,000 after government incentives, and it offers significant customization options. It distinguishes itself not necessarily by what it provides, but by what it lacks as standard features. There’s only one trim and one color option available. It doesn’t include a touchscreen, stereo, Bluetooth, or power windows.

      Slate

      So, what’s included? It features two seats and a five-foot bed capable of carrying payloads up to 1,400 pounds. You’ll find air conditioning, steel wheels, and manual windows, along with the essential driver safety assists expected in contemporary vehicles. The truck is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor, has a spacious front trunk, and offers a battery with an estimated range of about 150 miles, as stated by Slate.

      While that range isn’t particularly impressive in the EV market, a larger battery option will boost that range to a more appealing 240 miles. This larger battery is just one of over 100 additional options that Slate will offer. Customers will be able to purchase these add-ons at the time of sale or anytime thereafter, allowing for upgrades as needs change.

      Looking to add some color? Explore the extensive selection of vinyl wraps that can easily be applied or removed. There’s also an SUV upgrade kit available that transforms your two-seater truck into a five-seater vehicle. On the inside, infotainment relies on personal devices; there’s no touchscreen, no built-in CarPlay, and no stereo. Instead, it comes with a universal phone mount and several USB ports. You can also add tablet holders for a larger display and a Bluetooth speaker for music while driving.

      Slate

      All this is certainly intriguing. Slate is taking an unconventional approach compared to traditional automakers. For those interested in DIY car customization and seeking an affordable entry into the EV market, the Slate Truck is worth a look. Its ability to adapt to changing lifestyles is a compelling feature, and it will be interesting to see how this unfolds.

      You can now reserve your Slate Truck online with a $50 deposit, which is fully refundable if you decide to back out. As for when the trucks will be delivered, there’s no precise timeline yet, but they are anticipated to arrive next year.

      Mobile Tech Discussion with Gareth Beavis

      Question from Christopher John: Hi team, I’m contemplating between the Samsung Ultra Tab 10 and the Red Magic Tablet for productivity and gaming. Which one offers better value for money? Thank you! I’m watching from Trinidad.

      This is a great inquiry because tablets today manage both gaming and productivity effectively. Let's start with the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra. Firstly, it’s a premium device—costing over $1,000, sometimes even $1,200—but it has some impressive productivity features.

      Nirave Gondhia / Digital Trends

      One aspect that has always impressed me is Samsung DeX. It didn’t start off well, but it has improved significantly. You can cast to multiple screens, multitask with multiple windows, and the included S Pen is a great advantage. Unlike the Apple Pencil, which is sold separately, the S Pen is included. You can draw, apply filters, and play around with artistic styles.

      Performance is excellent. It’s equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity chipset, which performed well in our benchmarks. The large 14-inch display may not be the most portable but offers ample space for multitasking and sketching.

      When watching sports or managing multiple windows, it performs admirably. It’s a powerful device for word processing, background tasks, or even video editing.

      In comparison, the ZTE is clearly oriented towards gaming. It features thermal cooling, low screen latency, and a high refresh rate, making inputs very responsive. You can also cast to a larger screen, which is beneficial since its LCD display doesn’t rival the inky blacks and clarity of Samsung’s AMOLED.

      14128 Image used with permission by copyright holder

      If screen quality is not a concern or you plan to cast, the ZTE serves as an excellent mobile gaming console. It’s fast, visually appealing, and much more budget-friendly.

      In terms of value for money, I’d say the ZTE Red Magic Nova is the better option. However, it’s essential to read reviews, as these two devices cater to quite different needs. If