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• US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says every American should own a wearable
• The plan could bring major benefits, but also comes with risks
• We don't have much information about what the plan entails

The best smartwatches and other fitness wearables offer huge potential when it comes to helping us manage and improve our health – and now US Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has said he'd like to see every American wearing some form of health or fitness device.

“My vision is that every American is wearing a wearable within four years,” he said at a congressional hearing last week. To that end, his department will soon begin one of “the biggest campaigns in HHS history” that it says will help Americans “take control over their own health.”

Right now, the plan is short on specifics. We don’t know, for example, if it will involve the government promoting the benefits of wearables, federal bodies partnering with or subsidizing existing devices, or even the release of a Trump-branded health tracker (akin to the recent Trump Phone). A major campaign to promote the use of wearables, however, seems likely.

During the congressional hearing, Kennedy Jr. – who's helped to inspire the 'Make America Healthy Again', or MAHA, movement, said that while blood glucose monitors can cost $100 to $300 a month, his agency is “exploring ways of making sure that those costs can be paid for.”

He also suggested that an $80 wearable might be a better solution to the weight-loss drug Ozempic – which can cost over $1,000 a month – for controlling diabetes and weight.

More info is needed

(Image credit: Future)

On the surface, a campaign promoting the use of health wearables sounds like a good idea. These devices are tuned to nudge you towards healthier habits, such as exercising regularly and understanding your sleep patterns.

But questions are likely to be raised over Kennedy Jr.’s role in this, given his past promotion of some medical practices that are considered dubious by experts, and his skepticism over some vaccines.

Wearables also come with potential issues, regardless of who's promoting them. Your medical data is some of the most sensitive information about you, and if it were to be stolen, sold to advertisers without your knowledge, or otherwise fall into the wrong hands, it could have serious implications for you. That makes it a juicy target for hackers and identity thieves.

It’s also worth adding that wearables are not a cure-all solution. While they can provide important health information, including, for example, warnings about irregular heart rhythm, they can also fuel health anxiety and lead to unsafe self-medication.

Ultimately, they’re only one piece of the puzzle, and should be accompanied by other healthy actions and habits, as well as input from health professionals.

It sounds like a worthy endeavor, and one that could both improve American's health and save billions of dollars on healthcare costs over the long term – but right now we have more questions about RFK Jr.’s wearables plan than we do answers.

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Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: one-minute review

Founded in 2020, Casabrews hasn’t been around for very long, and so, it really hasn’t had its chance to shine among some of the best espresso machines. That said, it has cultivated some buzz on platforms like TikTok, thanks to the brand’s mix of affordability and aesthetics.

The Casabrews Ultra takes things one step further and provides additional options for refining your espresso. I appreciate the approach of Casabrews developing a low-cost semi-automatic espresso machine that’s a kind of gateway into making great coffee at home. However, the espresso it yielded quite literally left a bad taste in my mouth.

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(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

It’s true that a bad workman blames their tools, but ultimately, when I found myself about five hours deep in searching through subreddits and forums for a solution to my awful coffee, I realised that I was likely at the point where any actual customer would’ve sought out a new machine.

All in all, the Casabrews Ultra sits in a bit of an odd no-man’s-land, given that it asks for far too much of a casual, beginner user but delivers far too little customization and control for a hardcore coffee hobbyist. With some upgrades and a good deal of experimentation, the Casabrews Ultra could be someone’s espresso machine of choice, but I encountered far too many insurmountable problems during my testing period to be able to recommend the machine wholeheartedly. After the unfortunate loss of my old espresso machine, I’ve been on the hunt for a worthy replacement. But I can’t say the Casabrews Ultra will be inducted into my daily coffee routine anytime soon.

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: price and availability

• List price: $249.99 / £199.99
• Available in the US and UK
• Discounts available at the Casabrews website

Like the rest of Casabrews’ product lineup, the Casabrews Ultra is a pretty budget-friendly option. The machine will set you back less than $250, which is definitely on the low end of things for a semi-automatic espresso machine with a steam wand attachment.

You can purchase the Casabrews Ultra directly from the Casabrews website, often with a welcome discount to make it an even more affordable option. For example, at the moment, you can pick it up for $215. Third-party retailers like Walmart and Target are worth checking out for deals, too.

If you’re based in the UK, you can take advantage of the savings on Casabrews’ website too. In terms of third-party retailers, your main option is Amazon.

• Value score: 4/5

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: specificationsCasabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

Type

Semi-automatic espresso machine

Drink options

2 (single and double espresso)

Pump pressure

20 bar

Water tank capacity

2.3 quarts / 2.2 liters

Steam wand

Yes, manual

Size (H x W x D)

12.99 x 12.2 10.31 inches / 330 x 310 x 262mm

Weight

13.55lbs / 6.15kg

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: design

• Large, but attractive machine
• Stiff steam wand articulation and portafilter
• Useful floater in drip tray to indicate water level

When compared to other models from the brand, the Casabrew Ultra has a wider footprint, which is not great for tiny kitchens, but it certainly helps it look the part of a fancy espresso machine. Atop the machine is a little cup warming setup. Despite being a handy addition in theory, the cup warmer doesn’t actually transfer enough heat to achieve its one and only function. I found it much more effective to just use the machine’s hot water dispenser to prepare my cups.

The articulation on the steam wand is stiff, but it was nothing compared to the portafilter. I found it unusually difficult to twist it into place on the group head, even without any grounds in the basket. In fact, during my first few uses, I started to think that there may have been some debris on the shower screen or a warped O-ring gasket, causing the level of resistance I was getting.

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(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

After doing some investigating and disproving this theory, I just kind of resigned myself to accepting that the whole thing was just threaded really bloody tight, and so, making my coffee in the morning would be an unwitting workout for the rest of my test period. All that said, as long as I planted my non-dominant hand on the machine for leverage and let out a little grunt (yes, I’m almost certain that makes me stronger), I could mostly overcome that problem.

Outside of these stiff components, I have very few complaints about the build quality of the machine. Included with the Casabrews Ultra are baskets for one-cup and two-cup espresso: two pressurized and two unpressurized. The light plastic tamp/scoop tool serves far better as a scooper than it does as a tamper, so thankfully, a sturdier tamper is included as well.

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(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

Another feature I appreciate is the floater in the drip tray. This buoyant little nugget of red plastic provides a clear indicator of when to empty liquid in the tray. Admittedly, it’s pretty bad form not to give the machine a cleanout daily, but who hasn’t forgotten to empty their drip tray for a week and discovered what looks like the contents of a petri dish? Just me?

• Design score: 3/5

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: performance

• Recommended coffee dosage is much too high
• Strange metallic taste (even when just used to heat water)
• Steam wand works well once you're used to it

I was willing to accept that a $250 machine wouldn’t produce the kind of coffee worth swishing around your mouth and plotting on one of those coffee taster flavor wheels. What I wasn’t prepared for were quite so many shots that were ‘spit-it-in-the-sink’ bad.

My very first shot with the Casabrews Ultra was under-extracted, with minimal crema and a taste that wasn’t at all what I had come to expect from my chosen beans. Knowing that these tell-tale signs might mean that my water was travelling through the grounds too quickly, my first instinct was to up the dose of coffee loaded in the basket.

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(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

The problem with that was – despite my leaning on the lower end of what the manual recommended for a double espresso – my basket was already basically overflowing. With each shot I had pulled so far, the puck touched right up against the shower screen and, in most cases, even stuck to it. Thankfully, the Casabrew Ultra allows for reprogramming shot volume and temperature, so I could play around with those variables in the hopes of achieving something drinkable (or even tasty, if I’m lucky).

Unfortunately, while the quality of my extraction improved, shot after shot, I was presented with a pretty foul battery-like taste that I couldn’t totally camouflage with milk or by diluting into an americano. Light roasts are notoriously difficult to dial in, so I started to think that maybe I was presenting the Casabrews Ultra with too steep a challenge.

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(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

However, with payday too far off on the horizon, I couldn’t quite justify another bag of specialty coffee that I likely wouldn’t actually drink. As a compromise, I picked myself up a bag of Lavazza Rossa, a cheap but reliable medium roast that I used to chuck in my espresso machine as a teen prior to having adult money. It’s a sort of rich, chocolatey, everyman’s coffee that doesn't require too delicate a touch.

The Lavazza beans were pre-ground, which didn’t bode well for me achieving anything professional barista level, but at this point, I just wanted some coffee I could get through a full cup of without wincing. Besides, thanks to the pressurised basket, I could produce a shot with a nice faux crema even with beans that were technically a little stale.

The results were a familiar taste marred by an awful chemical, metallic note. I swapped in bottled water just in case the problem was Bath’s hard tap water, but it did very little to resolve the issue. Cleaning the shower screen, flushing, descaling – nothing seemed to do the job.

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

At one point, I served my partner cooled water that had run through the Casabrews Ultra to gauge his reaction (yes, I did this without warning; I never said my test process was ethical.). Lo and behold, he wanted to know why it tasted so metallic. It’s funny you’d ask, James. I was wondering about that exact thing.

Finding myself over 220g of beans down and yearning for a good coffee, I have to admit I was feeling pretty bitter. Given the 75% five-star reviews on Amazon, I can only assume this was an issue specific to the unit I tested or that the majority of customers use enough sugar and milk to hide any strange aftertastes. Obviously, the espresso-making part of the Casabrews Ultra is the main event, but it’s not all doom and gloom; the steam wand performed a whole lot better.

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

I first learned to make microfoam using a knob-operated steam wand, and honestly, I had no experience using one that was controlled via a button until I tested the Casabrews Ultra. Its steam wand has a couple of seconds of delay after you activate it, and given you aren’t in control of how quickly the steam output ramps up, it can be a real learning curve getting used to the rhythm of the machine. What’s more, the delay makes purging the steam wand just that bit more of a pain.

After some experimentation (and a refrigerated pitcher to make it harder to scald my milk), I managed to adapt my technique to create a microfoam I was reasonably happy with, which sported a silky mouthfeel and a pleasant sheen. A few visible bubbles lingered, but I’d say a lot of that was down to me being out of practice. Besides, there’s always the option to go full rip and make some dry foam when I’m in the mood for a cappuccino …I just needed to make sure I got my espresso elsewhere.

• Performance score: 2/5

Should you buy the Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

A low-cost machine with discounts available.

4/5

Design

A sturdy setup for the most part, but has some flaws.

3/5

Performance

For the most part, the Casabrews Ultra underperformed. Its espresso is a particular low point.

3/5

Buy it if

You’re big on milky coffees

Once you get the hang of it, the Casabrews Ultra’s steam wand is a solid performer that produces good microfoam.

You’re happy to give it a shot

Casabrew’s 30-day return window means that you’re not stuck using the Ultra if it just isn’t for you. View Deal

Don't buy it if

You want a machine from a legacy brand

Casabrews is something of a new kid on the block, and so there’s less information out there on troubleshooting, upgrades, or servicing.

You’d like a high-performing espresso machine

If you want a coffee that’ll get you out of bed in the morning, treat yourself to a machine that performs consistently and helps you get the most out of your beans.

You want a bean-to-cup machine

If you don’t fancy the hassle of seeking out a separate grinder, you’ll want to buy a machine that performs all those functions in one.

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: also consider

Not sure if the Casabrews Ultra is the right espresso machine for you? Here are two others to consider.

De'Longhi Linea Classic

Despite setting you back $50 less, the De’Longhi Linea Classic delivered far better results than the Casabrews Ultra. Its reviewer even said it might be the “one of the best espresso machines for new and experienced baristas”-- that’s some high praise.

Read out full De'Longhi Linea Classic review

De'Longhi Dedica Style

The Delonghi Dedica Style is another great option for an espresso machine under $200. What’s more, if you want to save yourself the mess and trouble of puck prep, the Dedica Style also takes ESE pods.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Style review

How I tested the Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

My testing period for the Casabrews Ultra lasted three weeks, and during that time, I regularly made espresso and steamed milk to create drinks. Throughout this process, I alternated between using freshly-ground light roast beans from a local specialty coffee shop, and pre-ground medium roast commercial coffee. While operating the steam wand, I used chilled whole dairy milk, semi-skimmed dairy milk, or almond milk.

The main points of reference I had to compare the Casabrews Ultra to were the De'Longhi Scultura and the Breville Bambino.

For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products on TechRadar.

First reviewed June 2025.

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: Nintendo Switch 2
Release date: June 5, 2025

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of my favorite games of all time, so I fully expected the sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, to capture my heart too.

Unfortunately, I never clicked with Tears of the Kingdom when it launched in 2023, despite loving the concepts at play that gave players an endless sandbox to experiment with and an incredible physics engine.

Why, you might ask? Well, unlike when its predecessor, launched in 2017 on magical new hybrid hardware, Tears of the Kingdom not only chugged along at 30 frames per second (fps) with a lower resolution than the games I had become accustomed to playing on other consoles, but I also felt it lacked the feeling of new that made Breath of the Wild so magical.

Fast forward to 2025 and the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition has completely revitalized my love for open-world games, and thanks to a huge performance boost, it’s now poised to sit on my Mount Rushmore of this decade’s video game releases. Read on to find out why it's one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games, but let it be known: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is one of the best video games ever made.

A breath of fresh air

(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom launched to rave reviews, cementing it as one of the best sequels of all time when it launched two years ago. There’s nothing else I can say about the game’s mechanics and story that haven’t already been said, so I want to specifically focus on the upgrades the Nintendo Switch 2 brings to Hyrule.

Back when I first played Tears of the Kingdom on the original Switch, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d played the game before. And despite running impressively on an underpowered handheld console, the experience was jarring, and it just never clicked for me.

As a massive fan of the series, I was incredibly disappointed; it almost felt like I had outgrown my childhood, and the magic had disappeared. Thankfully, I can confidently say today that’s not the case; I just needed a boost from 2025 hardware to make Tears of the Kingdom look and feel like it should’ve back in 2023.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is a paid upgrade to the original, available for free for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscribers, a paid upgrade if you already own the game, or by buying the full Nintendo Switch 2 version.

The game itself has no new content, per se; instead, it brings buttery smooth 60fps, a beautifully sharp resolution, and HDR, which makes the colors absolutely pop. I can’t emphasize enough just how much this version of the game feels like a total facelift compared to the outdated original version.

(Image credit: Future)

My biggest gripes with the game when it originally came out were all related to the magic of Hyrule’s expansive world feeling limited due to performance bottlenecks, and now on Switch 2, it plays like the definitive version of this absolutely incredible game.

Think of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition like wearing glasses for the first time, it’s as if the blurriness is gone and you can finally experience what you’d dreamt of as a kid exploring Hyrule for the first time, whether that was playing Ocarina of Time or Twilight Princess.

Throughout my 70-hour playthrough, I haven’t encountered one performance hiccup, and on many occasions, I’ve had to pause to just stare in awe at the beautiful contrasting colors of the sky - I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a beautiful sunset in any game, ever.

The definitive way to experience Hyrule

(Image credit: Nintendo)

If, like me, you couldn’t click with the original game, not to any fault of it own, but rather a fault of the hardware limitations it was confined to, then not only should you run out and buy this game, but it’s enough to justify a Nintendo Switch 2 console in itself.

While I haven’t played Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition, reading the review of that game on Switch 2 hardware tells a similar story to my experience with its successor. These Zelda games are just so good that an improvement to the experience by bringing them up to date for 2025’s standards makes them must-play, even if you experienced the land of Hyrule on Switch before.

Not only have I loved exploring Hyrule on my OLED TV in 1440p upscaled to 4K, but the performance upgrades here make the game a delight on Switch 2’s handheld mode. Running at 1080p with HDR enabled, it’s just the perfect experience to take your adventure on the go and not feel like you’re compromising.

Best bit

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Gliding through the world of Hyrule on Switch 2 feels like you're experiencing freedom for the first time. Now with a crisp resolution and steady framerate, exploration has never felt so good.

Eight years ago, when I first experienced that feeling of continuing my adventure on my commute to work, in the park, or on vacation, it was the best gaming experience I had ever had in my life. Now, thanks to the Switch 2’s hardware, that experience is amplified to a whole new level, and all I want to do is finish writing this article so I can delve back into the land of Hyrule.

While some fans of the series will be disappointed at the lack of new content in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition, I think the game can already feel a little overwhelming with just how much it offers.

At no point in my playthrough did I wish for new experiences; I was just happy to relive one of the best games of all time, but better. And, truth be told, while there’s not really any new content, despite an option for a second save file (Thank you, Nintendo!) on the Switch 2 itself, do not underestimate just how good the Zelda Notes companion app is.

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(Image credit: Nintendo)

Zelda Notes, an exclusive feature to the Switch 2 Edition of this game, can be found in the iOS or Android Nintendo Switch app. It’s almost an app within an app, bringing a whole new extra element to your adventure.

Not only can you navigate the map in real-time on your smartphone or tablet, but the app also unlocks dozens upon dozens of Voice Memories, which makes Hyrule feel even more alive. While I would’ve preferred Voice Memories, audio clips you can stumble upon in different locations in the world, to be included in the game, rather than in the app, the added lore has made me want to explore every nook and cranny to try and uncover the hidden details of the adventure.

The Zelda Notes app also gives you access to your full playthrough data, which is a lovely addition considering Nintendo still doesn’t give you detailed playing stats on the Switch 2 console, as well as the ability to share items and building concepts for Autobuild via QR codes.

One of my favorite additions to the game via Zelda Notes, however, is the Daily Bonus, which lets you spin a wheel every 24 hours to unlock a nutritious meal or other stat boost that might help you explore the deepest depths or highest skies of Hyrule. I found myself playing the game more regularly just to experience my Daily Bonus, and it was just the incentive I needed to keep venturing on with my journey.

Should you buy The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?Buy it if...

You’ve never played Tears of the Kingdom before, or are looking to replay it
This version of the game is the definitive way to play one of the best video games of all time. If you've never played Tears of the Kingdom, couldn't vibe with the less-than-stellar performance when it launched, or love the game and want to delve back in, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is worth picking up.

You’re looking for a reason to buy the Nintendo Switch 2
Yes, Mario Kart World is awesome, but after a while, it becomes your go-to party game rather than a reason to pick up your Nintendo Switch 2 after work. If you're looking for a reason to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2, this upgraded version of one of the best games of all time might be the perfect opportunity to do so. I don't say this lightly: Tears of the Kingdom in full 60fps is a system seller.

Don't buy it if...

You didn't enjoy the game the first time around
While I've just written over a thousand words on why this version of Tears of the Kingdom makes me love the game despite not enjoying it the first time around, my reasons for not clicking with the game were never related to the gameplay itself. If you don't enjoy open-world adventure and didn't click with Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom in the past, this new version of the game won't change your mind.

Accessibility

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition doesn’t have much going on with it, accessibility wise. While you still have access to gyro aiming and the ability to rebind your controls from the Switch 2 menu (which won’t translate to the correct button prompts in-game), there’s nothing much to write home about.

You can't increase the text size, turn off motion blur, or make any other adjustments to help with playing the game. There's also no difficulty setting, so if you find the nature of an open world with breakable weapons too difficult, tough luck.

How I reviewed The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

I played over 70 hours of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch 2, venturing throughout the main story as well as completing a variety of side quests dotted around Hyrule.

I had previously played the game on Nintendo Switch 1, but was never able to complete it. Combined, I must have over 150 hours of gameplay in Tears of the Kingdom, and I've also played and completed every other mainline Zelda game.

I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition in a mixture of handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 itself and on one of the best OLED TVs, the Samsung Q90D, using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

First reviewed June 2025

• A former Microsoft Game Studios executive producer has released a video discussing the future of Xbox
• She discussed the reveal of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and recent focus on the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative
• She suggested that "Xbox has no desire or literally can't ship hardware anymore"

Former Microsoft Game Studios executive producer Laura Fryer has discussed the future of the Xbox brand on her YouTube channel and argued that Xbox hardware is effectively "dead".

She described the recent reveal of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X as unsurprising, saying that it's "much easier to slap an Xbox sticker on an existing piece of hardware and call it a day."

Fryer predicted that the upcoming handheld will be hampered by some of the wider issues currently facing the Xbox brand, including a lack of compelling exclusive experiences: "Xbox doesn't do exclusives anymore. Even if Xbox delivers a crazy great game 'Xbox Anywhere' means that I can play that game on any platform."

Many Xbox first-party titles also seem to suffer from protracted development cycles. There were several notable absences from the recent Xbox Games Showcase, such as State of Decay 3, which was originally announced five years ago, Fable, and the Perfect Dark remake.

In her eyes, the lack of exclusive experiences and years between major releases leaves consumers without a compelling reason to consider the Asus ROG Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X over alternatives like the Steam Deck OLED or building your own PC.

She went on to suggest that the handheld and current focus on the 'Xbox Play Anywhere' initiative is part of "a slow exit from the hardware business completely" and that the end goal appears to be driving players towards Xbox Game Pass.

"As one of the founding members of the Xbox team, I'm not pleased with where things are today," she concluded. "From my perspective, it looks like Xbox has no desire or literally can't ship hardware anymore."

Looking at the current trajectory of Xbox, it's hard not to disagree. Sales of the Xbox Series X and Series S have been trailing behind the Xbox One for some time, so it's clear that Microsoft will need to drastically shift its strategy in order to continue growing its gaming division.

In my eyes, the acquisition of Activision Blizzard suggests a shift towards generating revenue through multi-platform software sales rather than truly competing in the console space. This lines up with Xbox boss Phil Spencer's professed desire to release more Xbox games on other platforms.

This will likely mean less of a focus on dedicated hardware from Microsoft itself, with third-party manufacturers like Asus (and recently Meta with the Limited Edition Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition) catering to the remaining demand for Xbox products with licensed hardware instead.

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• The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is so good that I wish I could use it on anything
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The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 could be one of the best-selling foldable phones of 2025 going by past form, as Samsung’s foldable flip phones combine a compact form factor with a more reasonable price than its Z Fold line, making them a popular choice. So will this trend continue into 2025?

Well, nothing about the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 has been confirmed just yet, but it sure is starting to leak. So below, you’ll find all the news, leaks, and rumors we’ve heard about this foldable contender so far.

We’ll also update this article whenever any new rumors emerge, so make sure to check back soon if you want to stay informed. And if you want to know what we're hoping for from the Z Flip 7 too, check out five things we want from the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Latest news

A massive specs leak suggests the Galaxy Z Flip 7 could have some serious upgrades.View Deal

Cut to the chase

• What is it? The next clamshell foldable from Samsung
• When is it out? Probably July 9
• How much will it cost? Likely upwards of $1,099.99 / £1,049 / AU$1,799

Look out for it in July

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• Expected to launch on July 9
• Could cost the same as last year

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 release date will probably be July 9, as the next Samsung Galaxy Unpacked is then.

Samsung hasn't specifically said that we'll see the Z Flip 7 there, but it seems very likely, as the previous two models had July announcements, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 also shipped in July.

That said, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 shipped in August of its release year, and the Z Flip 4 wasn’t even announced until August. Still, if not July then we’ll probably see the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 in August.

As far as release date rumors go, @PandaFlashPro has claimed that mass production of Samsung’s upcoming foldables started in May, which probably works for a July or August announcement. We've also heard the same mass production claim from another source, so this is looking likely.

Plus, July 9 has also been rumored for the Galaxy Z Flip 7's launch.

And sources have also spotted both a Galaxy Z Flip 7 codename (specifically ‘B7’) and a Galaxy Z Flip 7 model number (SM-F751), as well as a certification, which at the very least suggests that this phone is in the works.

However, a leak suggests the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 won't actually ship until August.

As for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 price, we’ve heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have the same starting price as the Galaxy Z Flip 6, and this is a claim we've now heard multiple times. That would mean a starting price of $1,099.99 / £1,049 / AU$1,799.

That said, leaker Roland Quandt claims the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will actually cost around 100 euros (roughly $115 / £85 / AU$180) less than its predecessor.

It might also come with a free Google AI Pro subscription, so you could get more than just the phone for your money.

Can you trust these rumors?

It seems almost certain that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will be announced on July 9, since Samsung's next big phone event is then.

And since multiple sources have pointed to no change in price, that much is looking fairly likely.

Bigger screens and a better hinge

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Future / Axel Metz)

• The Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have bigger screens than its predecessor
• It could also have a better hinge mechanism
• And it might be slimmer and lighter

We don’t have to rely purely on rumors when it comes to the design of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, as Samsung itself has said during an earnings call (via @Jukanlosreve) that this year “we will release new foldable products with improved form factors, durability,” so while the Z Flip 7 wasn’t named, it’s likely one of the devices the company is referring to.

Since then, Samsung has said that its upcoming Galaxy Z models will be thinner, lighter, and more durable then their predecessors. Samsung's post is primarily talking about the Galaxy Z Fold line, so there's slight uncertainty over whether it refers to the Z Flip series too, but the wording suggests it probably is.

Beyond that, we’ve heard that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have bigger screens than its predecessor, with a source claiming the foldable display will be 6.85 inches (up from 6.7 inches), and the cover screen will be around 4 inches (up from 3.4 inches). We've heard that 4-inch claim a second time now too, and animation files spotted by Android Authority also point to a bigger secondary screen, as does a leaked photo of Galaxy Z Flip 7 cover screen glass.

Elsewhere, we've similarly heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might have a 6.9-inch foldable screen and a 4.1-inch cover screen, with both having a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits.

They also claim that it will be 13.7mm thick when folded and 6.5mm thick when unfolded, making it slimmer than its predecessor, and that it will weigh 188g.

Also on the design front, leaker @PandaFlashPro claims that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7’s hinge mechanism will be more smooth and durable, that the button placement will be the same as last year, and that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 will have a smaller display crease than its predecessor.

(Image credit: Android Headlines / OnLeaks)

And perhaps most excitingly of all, we've seen renders (one of which you can see above) showing a full-width cover screen on the Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Additional Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 renders have since leaked, and these line up with other leaks, as well as showing the phone in Blue Shadow and Jet Black colors.

Speaking of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 colors, Samsung itself has accidentally listed four shades, specifically Jet Black, Blue Shadow, Coral Red, and Green Mint, with the last of those being exclusive to Samsung's online store.

That matches earlier leaks which stated that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might be sold in a Coral Red shade, while another Galaxy Z Flip 7 colors leak had pointed to black, blue, and Coral Red shades.

Can you trust these rumors?

So far, the design leaks all only come from one source each, so we’d take them with a dose of skepticism. Though the claims of larger screens come from a source with a good track record, so that much may well be true.

If nothing else though, Samsung’s own comments strongly suggest we’ll see some changes to the design.

Copying the cameras

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• The cameras might not get an upgrade
• That would mean a 50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP selfie camera

According to one Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 camera leak this phone will have exactly the same cameras as the Z Flip 6. That would mean a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide one, and a 10MP front-facing one. Sadly, we've heard the same Z Flip 7 camera specs leaked by a second source now too.

These specs would be rather disappointing, so we hope that subsequent camera leaks will disagree with this.

Still, if nothing else the software will probably be improved, and we’d expect to see new AI photography tools too. Indeed, one more recent leak points to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 having a new version of Samsung's ProVisual Engine, which will use AI to improve photos and videos.

Can you trust these rumors?

As we’ve only heard camera claims from a couple of sources so far, we’d take them with a pinch of salt. That said, it’s believable that Samsung wouldn’t improve the cameras, especially as the Samsung Galaxy S25’s cameras weren’t upgraded from the Samsung Galaxy S24’s.

An Exynos chipset and no change to RAM

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• Likely to use an Exynos 2500 chipset
• May match its predecessor's RAM and storage

There’s potentially bad news when it comes to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7’s specs, as according to multiple rumors, it will have an Exynos 2500 chipset, with SamMobile even claiming to have 'confirmed' as much.

That’s set to be Samsung’s most powerful in-house smartphone chipset of 2025, and is almost certainly going to outperform the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 used by the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6. But based on past form it probably won’t quite be a match for the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which is used by the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, and is what we were hoping would power the Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Indeed, an early Galaxy Z Flip 7 benchmark with the Exynos 2500 shows worryingly low scores.

There's still some hope for the Snapdragon 8 Elite though, as another source claims there are prototypes of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 with both chipsets.

This rumor is given more weight as Korean-language website The Bell reported there's been lower than expected yields of Samsung’s Exynos 2500 chip, which is why we saw the Galaxy S25 range get a Snapdragon chipset across all the phones and regions. And this situation is expected to continue for the Galaxy Z Flip 7, meaning it'll likely get Snapdragon 8 Elite tuned for Galaxy use.

Indeed, most recently we've heard from one source that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will use a Snapdragon 8 Elite.

And for software, Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 will launch with Android 16. There will likely be improvements to the phone's AI too, as Samsung will reportedly focus on AI features at its launch.

Beyond that, we’ve elsewhere heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 could have 12GB of RAM, and a choice of 256GB or 512GB of storage – specs which are identical to the current model.

On the other hand, another source has pointed to 8GB or 12GB of RAM, plus 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage for the Galaxy Z Flip 7. Though we're skeptical that Samsung would offer lower RAM configurations than you can get the Z Flip 6 in.

And leaker @PandaFlashPro has posted on X, saying that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 will have a bigger vapor chamber than the Z Flip 6, which could help it keep cool and therefore avoid throttling.

That might also aid the battery life, as might the use of a "highly efficient" display, though as yet we haven’t heard anything about the phone’s battery. For reference though, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 has a 4,000mAh battery, so we’d expect the Z Flip 7’s would be at least that size.

A more recent tip has the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 slated to get a 4,300mAh battery, which is a boost up from 4,000mAh in the Galaxy Z Flip 6. We've heard that 4,300mAh claim multiple times now too, from numerous sources, and even seen 4,300mAh mentioned in a certification. Add in a improved chip and display efficiency and we could be looking at a very solid battery life for the Flip 7.

Can you trust these rumors?

Some of these specs have only been stated by one source, so we’d take them with a pinch of salt for now, though there’s nothing unbelievable here.

Hopefully though Samsung will either equip the phone with a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset or give it more than 12GB of RAM – or both. But that’s just our hope, not a prediction.

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With the Samsung Galaxy S25 series now here we’re looking ahead to Samsung’s next big smartphone launch, which in all likelihood will consist of the brand's 2025 foldables.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 could be the most high-end of these, though there are also reports of a tri-fold model in the works, which might have it beat. Either way though, the Z Fold 7 is likely to be an impressive phone.

We don’t know anything for sure about it yet, but leaks and rumors have revealed some possible specs, features, and other details, so you’ll find all of that below. And we've also written an article focused on the five things we most want from the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

We've also got an article covering whether you should wait for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Latest news

A massive Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 specs leak points to some serious upgrades.View Deal

Cut to the chase

• What is it? The next big-screen Samsung foldable
• When is it out? Likely landing on July 9
• How much will it cost? Likely upwards of $1,899.99 / £1,799 / AU$2,749

Likely landing in July

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

• Samsung is holding a big event on July 9
• The price is reportedly unchanged from last year

We're almost certainly the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 release date will be July 9, as Samsung has confirmed that its next Galaxy Unpacked event will be then.

But even before that announcement we were leaning towards that date, due to a combination of leaks, educated guesses, and past form.

Samsung hasn't confirmed that the Z Fold 7 will be in attendance, but it looks very likely, and we can confidently say that this phone is in the works at the very least, especially as multiple sources have come across codenames and model numbers for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Plus, leaker @PandaFlashPro claims that mass production of the phone has started as of May, which would likely work for a July launch. A second source had also claimed that the Z Fold 7 would begin mass production in May, so that's promising.

In fact, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has even now been certified, suggesting that it's coming soon.

However, while it will probably be announced on July 9, one source suggests the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 won't ship until sometime in August.

As for the price, according to one source the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will cost the same amount as its predecessor. That Galaxy Z Fold 7 price claim is something we've now heard multiple times. That would mean a starting price of $1,899.99 / £1,799 / AU$2,749.

However, we've elsewhere heard that the Z Fold 7 could cost €100 (roughly $115 / £85 / AU$180) more. Plus, there might be a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Ultra, and that would almost certainly be more expensive.

Regardless of the price though, you might at least get more than just the phone for your money, with one leak suggesting the Z Fold 7 will come with a Google AI Pro subscription.

But for a deeper dive into possible pricing, give our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 price predictions guide a read.

Can you trust these rumors?

Samsung has now all but confirmed that it will unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 7 on July 9.

We’d take the price rumors above with a pinch of salt, since so far each of them only comes from one source. But given that the pricing of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series was for the most part identical to that of the S24, there’s a good chance prices will stay the same here too.

A bigger screen and a slimmer build

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

• Reports suggest the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have bigger screens than the Z Fold 6
• It will be slimmer and lighter
• The crease could be smaller this year too

During an earnings call (via @Jukanlosreve), Samsung itself said that its upcoming foldable phones would have “improved form factors, durability”, so we can probably expect some changes to the design and build of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

At MWC 2025, Samsung Display showed off a ceaseless foldable display, which hits at tech the Galaxy Z Fold 7 could adopt to remove, or at least go someway in removing, the display crease currently seen in the Fold 6.

From other tips and some render images courtesy of tipster OnLeaks, who has a solid track record of accuracy, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 looks to be a decent bit slimmer than it's predecessor, measuring 4.5mm thick when unfolded compared to the Fold 6's 5.36mm; a millimeter makes a difference with foldable phones.

(Image credit: @OnLeaks / Android Headlines)

The renders also tip a larger display, with the main display hitting 8.2 inches, up from 7.6 inches, with the cover display reaching 6.5 inches, a tad bigger than the 6.3 inches on the Fold 6.

A leaked Galaxy Z Fold 7 dummy unit also points to it being 4.5mm thick when unfolded, while other leaked renders point to the Z Fold 7 having a punch-hole camera in the main screen, rather than an under-display camera.

Another image has also been shared, as you can see below, this time just showing the back of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. This is the first actual photo we've seen of the phone, and it lines up with leaked renders.

(Image credit: Setsuna Digital)

We’ve also heard that Samsung is considering not putting a digitizer on the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s screen, which might allow the phone to be around 1.5mm thinner, but would also mean the S Pen would likely be thicker and require a battery (and therefore need charging), as without a digitizer in the display, the stylus would instead have to generate an electric current to interact with the screen.

This claim about a lack of digitizer and a redesigned S Pen is something we've now heard from another source too, so it could well be correct.

Yet another source has now said this too, adding that as a result the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be under 10mm thick when folded, making it the slimmest Z Fold model yet. However, the S Pen could get an unspecified "downgrade" as a result.

More specifically, we've heard that the Galaxy Z Fold 7 could be as slim as 8.2mm thick when folded.

That said, another claim slightly differs from those above, with one source saying the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be 3.9mm thick when unfolded and 8.9mm thick when folded. That source has since added that the full unfolded dimensions will apparently be 158.4 x 143.1 x 3.9mm, and that the Z Fold 7's bezels will be just 1.0mm thick (down from 1.9mm on the Galaxy Z Fold 6).

And we've heard yet another set of possible Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 dimensions, with another source claiming it will be 8.9mm thick when folded, 4.2mm thick when unfolded, and 215g.

Regardless of exact dimensions though, we know the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be slimmer than its predecessor, as Samsung has confirmed as much, while also saying it will be lighter and more durable.

Also on the design front, leaker @PandaFlashPro has claimed that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have a smaller display crease than its predecessor, and a more smooth and durable hinge mechanism.

We've also heard from another source that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 could have a smaller display crease, and they echo leaks above in saying that it could be just 4.5mm thick too, and have a larger 8-inch main and 6.5-inch cover screen. Interestingly, they also say that it could have better water and dust resistance than the Z Fold 6.

There has been slight disagreement on whether the main screen will be 8 inches or 8.2 inches, but a recent leak suggests the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have the same size 8-inch panel as the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, but that thanks to smaller bezels the usable area will be around 8.2 inches, which could explain the disagreements.

And elsewhere we've heard that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 could have a titanium backplate, making it lighter and more durable, and that it might have "all-new" glass for the screen.

For colors, Samsung itself has accidentally listed four Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 colors on its Irish website. Specifically, Jet Black, Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow, and Green Mint, the last of which is listed as an online store exclusive.

Multiple other sources meanwhile have mentioned Coral Red, so perhaps that will be offered too.

Can you trust these rumors?

Until we’ve seen more renders of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 we’d take any design claims with a pinch of salt. But with Samsung itself saying that at least some of its foldables will be in for a change, there’s a good chance the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be among them.

There’s also a fair chance the claims of larger screens are accurate, since multiple sources have said as much.

A big 200MP upgrade

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)

• The Galaxy Z Fold 7 could have a new 200MP main camera
• The under-display camera might be improved, or absent
• There's no news yet on the other cameras

So far the main Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 camera claim we’ve heard is that it will have the same 200MP main camera as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, which would be quite an upgrade on the 50MP main camera of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.

This rumor was given more heft by another that claims the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will get the 200MP main camera from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Given the high price of the Fold phones, it's arguably high time they got given the same powerful main camera as their S-series Ultra counterparts.

Another source has also said the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 will have a 200MP camera, and added that the under-display camera will be improved too. That said, another leak suggests the Z Fold 7 won't have an under-display camera at all.

More recently we've heard this 200MP claim again, but with the addition that the Galaxy Z Fold 7's other two rear cameras won't be upgraded, meaning a 12MP ultra-wide and a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom.

However, there might be behind the scenes improvements to all the cameras, with one leak saying the Z Fold 7 will have a new version of Samsung's ProVisual Engine, improving both photos and videos.

Can you trust these rumors?

Since multiple sources have pointed to a 200MP camera, that much is looking likely, but we'd take the other camera spec leaks with a pinch of salt for now.

An Elite chipset

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)

• Likely to use a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset
• Could have 12GB of RAM, just like the current model

We're heard quite a lot about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 specs. According to multiple sources, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will use a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which is what we’d expect since that’s what the Samsung Galaxy S25 series uses. If it does, then it should be significantly more powerful than the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

One of the same sources though says to expect 12GB of RAM and a choice of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB of storage, all of which are the same specs as the current model.

Another source has similarly said to expect a faster chipset than the Z Fold 6, and both they and @PandaFlashPro have pointed to a bigger vapor chamber (which could help with sustained performance) and better speakers.

And another leak agrees with previous leaks that the Z Fold 7 will have a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and a larger vapor chamber.

A Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 benchmark also mentions much of the above, including a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and 12GB of RAM.

That said, we've elsewhere heard that there could be both 12GB and 16GB versions of the Z Fold 7, paired with 256GB, 512GB or 1TB of storage.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will also have new software, with the company confirming that it will launch with One UI 8 (Samsung's take on Android 16). It's likely that AI improvements will be a big focus too, with Samsung reportedly set to talk a lot about AI at the Z Fold 7's announcement.

Sadly, what the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 might not have is a bigger battery, with multiple sources claiming the Z Fold 7's battery is the same size as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6's, which would make it 4,400mAh.

That's now looking more likely, as a certification also points to a 4,400mAh battery. However, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7's battery life might still be improved through the use of a highly efficient display. And another source points to new battery and charging tech being used, which could also help, or mean it supports faster charging than the 25W of its predecessor.

We've also heard that much like the Galaxy S25, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 might support Qi2 charging, but not offer a magnetic connection.

Can you trust these rumors?

We’d be very surprised if the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 didn’t use a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, since that’s the next model on from the chipset used by the Z Fold 6, and since it’s also used by the Galaxy S25 series.

The storage and vapor chamber claims also sound believable, and sadly so does the claim that it will stick with 12GB of RAM, since even the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra only has that much in most regions.

And Samsung often doesn't increase battery sizes, so the claim that this aspect won't be changing is believable too.

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• A detailed specs leak includes the possible dimensions and weight of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7
• It also includes screen, battery, camera, and chipset details
• If this is correct, then these phones could be substantial upgrades

Just yesterday we saw some unofficial renders showing how thin the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might be, and now a leaker has revealed the phone's possible dimensions.

Setsuna Digital (via Phone Arena) claims that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will be 8.9mm thick when folded and just 4.2mm thick when unfolded – that would be down from 12.1mm and 5.6mm on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 meanwhile is apparently 13.7mm thick when folded and 6.5mm thick when unfolded, so this could be a chunkier device, but that would still make it slimmer than the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, which is 14.9mm and 6.9mm when folded and unfolded respectively.

This source additionally claims that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will weigh 215g (down from 239g), and that it will have an 8-inch foldable screen and a 6.5-inch cover screen, both of which would be slightly bigger than its predecessor's.

It’s also said to have a 200MP main camera (up from 50MP on the Z Fold 6), a 10MP front camera, an “enhanced armor aluminum frame”, and a glass-ceramic back panel, while the chipset is apparently a “Snapdragon 8”, which presumably means a Snapdragon 8 Elite – the same chipset as you’ll find in the Samsung Galaxy S25 series.

From the Fold to the Flip

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

As for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, it's said to weigh 188g, which would actually make it marginally heavier than its 187g predecessor. It also apparently has a 6.9-inch foldable screen and a 4.1-inch cover screen, both of which would be bigger than on the current model, with the cover screen in particular growing a lot from the 3.4-inch Z Fold 6 one.

Both screens are said to have a 120Hz refresh rate, which would be an upgrade for the cover screen, and apparently the bezel around the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7’s screen is 1.25mm.

This source also claims that both screens have a maximum brightness of 2,600 nits, which again would be an upgrade for the cover screen but not for the main display, and that the battery is 4,300mAh, up from 4,000mAh on the current model.

If this leak is accurate, both of these phones could be in for some pretty impressive upgrades, and as we’ve heard many of these details before it’s likely that much of this is accurate, especially as this leaker has a good track record.

That said, some details conflict slightly with things we’ve heard before – in particular, there doesn’t seem to be any agreement among leakers on the exact dimensions of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

We should find out how accurate this leak is soon though, as the next Samsung Galaxy Unpacked is on July 9, and we’ll almost certainly see both phones unveiled at the event.

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The Metals Company is applying for permission from the Trump administration to mine for nickel and cobalt beneath a remote patch of the Pacific Ocean. Other countries say the minerals aren't America's to mine.

(Image credit: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU)

People who can no longer move or speak may soon have a new option: an implanted device that links their brain to a computer.

(Image credit: UPMC and Pitt Health Sciences)

Smokers are no longer allowed to light up in public parks, at swimming pools, or at beaches, or "anywhere children may be present," said French health and family minister Catherine Vautrin.

(Image credit: Vincent Feuray/Hans Lucas)

• Lyon has confirmed plans to pull the plug on some Microsoft software
• European and open source software are the preferred alternatives
• Other European cities are making similar moves

France's third-largest city, Lyon, is the latest European city to have ditched Microsoft Office in favor of open-source software alternatives.

It's a move which is gaining traction across Europe, as countries look to reduce their dependence on American software amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, while simultaneously boosting sovereignty.

At the same time, ditching Microsoft will enable Lyon to extend the lifespan of its hardware to reduce its environmental impact, with open source software less likely to impose end-of-life dates such as the upcoming Windows 10 deprecation in October 2025.

Lyon switches away from Microsoft

In an online memo, Lyon's office explained it would be transitioning away from Microsoft software towards OnlyOffice, developed by a group of Latvian developers, as well as Linux and PostgreSQL.

As part of the move, Territoire Numérique Ouvert is also being adopted as an alternative for video conferencing and office automation.

It's believed that the Lyon government employs around 10,000 individuals, making this a colossal shift that could require large amounts of retraining and upskilling. Munich previously attempted a similar switch, but later reversed the move due to compatibility issues and user dissatisfaction.

Still, with EU-US tensions at an all-time high, the movement is gaining traction once more.

Germany's Schleswig-Holstein recently announced plans to end contracts for Microsoft software including Teams, with neighbouring Danish cities Copenhagen and Aarhus also reportedly exploring options.

Microsoft counts enough customers in its order books for it not to have to worry about losing Lyon, with the move instead marking a symbolic shift. However, if more European cities begin to turn their backs on Microsoft, the American tech giant could begin to see financial impacts.

TechRadar Pro has asked Microsoft for thoughts on the ongoing European trend, but we did not receive an immediate response.

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• Freelancers are using ChatGPT to help them work - and then charging more
• Businesses are still saving money by paying freelancers over employees
• Policies must be revised to "support this new way of working"

Freelancers are now able to earn more thanks to AI, according to research from Fiverr comparing UK-based freelancers with business decision-makers in Britain.

The data claims one in five UK business leaders also relies on freelancers to fill AI kills gaps, with two in five (38%) businesses actively seeking workers with AI expertise.

Despite the productivity gains freelancers are seeing from artificial intelligence, many (44%) are charging more for AI-driven work, boosting their income while simultaneously reducing their workloads.

Freelancers are unlocking more money with AI

More than half of the freelancers surveyed said they wouldn't be able to work without AI – many can now save several hours per week on their work, with some boasting that they're saving two full working days every week.

More than two in five say they're able to set their own hours, with around three-quarters also setting their own rates. Nearly as many (70%) claim to be earning more than they were in full-time roles as a result.

ChatGPT was found to be the most popular tool (70%), with Google (38%), Gemini (33%) and Microsoft Copilot (24%) also widely used.

Despite the considerable boosts, a significant proportion of freelancers (36%) expressed concerns that AI could eventually automate parts of their role.

Fiverr also explored the shift away from traditional workers, revealing that most businesses (87%) plan to hire freelancers up to 10 times in the next six months. Two in five UK businesses claim to be using more freelancers in 2025 than ever before, with companies saving on average £33,000 per month by favoring freelancers over in-house employees.

However, with the added flexibility come increased financial complications – more than half (55%) stated that current tax laws deter businesses from hiring freelancers, and only two in five (39%) freelancers feel supported by the government.

Reduced worker protections and rights have also caused freelancers to have to consider diversifying their income – 70% now have more than two.

Looking ahead, there's a clear need for some readjustments to be made to accommodate the shifting worker patterns.

Fiverr UK Country Manager Michele Tropeano summarized: "Portfolio careers are moving mainstream and becoming the backbone of the UK workforce."

"To truly harness this potential, we need modern policies and systems that support this new way of working, not hold it back."

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Acer Chromebook Spin 312: Two-minute review

The Acer Chromebook Spin 312 is the smallest device in the brand’s line of 2-in-1 Chromebooks, measuring just 12.2 inches. Despite this, it’s not the sleekest Chromebook around, with its sharp angles and juts spoiling the otherwise elegant design, which is aided by the quality of the materials used in its construction.

It’s quite thick and heavy for its size, so it’s perhaps not ideal for using as a tablet, despite its convertible nature. But thanks to that solid hinge for the lid, it can be propped upside down and used exclusively in touchscreen mode with ease.

It’s not just the hinge mechanism that’s well made – all aspects of the Spin 312 feel as solid and sturdy as any of the best Chromebooks, including the keys and trackpad, which feel premium to the touch as well.

Port selection is reasonable, too, although I would’ve liked to have seen more than just one USB-C port, and the lack of an SD card slot might be detrimental for some. Thankfully, there are two USB-A ports to improve connectivity options, and the HDMI port and audio jack are further additions I welcome.

The review unit I had came equipped with an Intel N100 processor and 4GB of RAM. Despite these underwhelming specs, the Chromebook Spin 312 performed admirably, handling many typical Chromebook workloads quite well. However, slowdowns can occur when pushed a little too far.

(Image credit: Future)

Such cases include gaming, where the Chromebook Spin 312 struggled to run even fairly modest mobile games on high settings during my testing. However, lowering these did improve matters to the point where games such as Asphalt Legends Unite were playable to an enjoyable extent.

More pleasing on the performance front is the display. The resolution looks especially sharp on the 12-inch screen, although colors aren’t rendered as vibrantly as they are on some rival Chromebooks. The bezels also encroach quite considerably on the allotted real estate for the screen, and the display can be quite reflective under certain conditions. In most cases, though, it makes for a pleasant viewing experience.

The touch inputs are also quite responsive, tracking well with swipes to make drawing and handwriting a realistic option, although it can be a little grabby at times. You’ll also need to provide your own stylus if you want to make the most of your creative time with the Chromebook Spin 312.

I found the touchpad disappointingly inaccurate by comparison, as it failed to track with what I was expecting from my movements, leading to a lagging and stuttering, which in turn made it imprecise.

Thankfully, I had a better time typing on the Chromebook Spin 312, thanks to the generous spacing of the keys and their satisfying dampening. Their lack of indentations and grip, however, can lead to slipping and mispresses on occasion.

Its battery life is impressive, lasting just over 11 hours in our test. This places it near the higher end of the Chromebook spectrum – the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook performs significantly better on this front, although admittedly this is somewhat of an outlier.

The Chromebook Spin 312 sits somewhere in the middle of the convertible Chromebook market. Some rivals are better performers, while others have a sleeker design. But, overall, if you won’t be demanding too much from it in terms of performance, the Chromebook Spin 312 is a good 2-in-1 Chromebook for those who prize portability and a sharp image.

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Price and availability

• Starts from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)
• Various CPU, RAM, and storage options
• Middle of the market

The Chromebook Spin 312 starts from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690). It can be configured with 64GB or 128GB of storage, 4GB or 8GB of RAM, and an Intel Core i3 or Intel N100 CPU.

This places the Chromebook Spin 312 somewhere in the middle of the market considering its spec. It’s considerably cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360, which it bests in terms of performance, although its display isn’t quite as sharp or as vibrant, and lacks its premium design (although it isn’t too far behind in this regard).

However, the Chromebook Spin 312 is more expensive than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, which is one of the best budget Chromebooks in our view. This lacks the compactness of the Chromebook Spin 312 and the performance isn’t exactly impressive either, but it makes up for these deficiencies with its great build quality and enduring battery life.

• Value: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Specs

These are the specs of the particular Acer Chromebook Spin 312 I reviewed:

Price

Starting from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)

CPU

Intel N100 (4 threads, 3.4GHz)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

RAM

4GB LPDDR5

Screen

12.2-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS LCD, 16:10, 60Hz touchscreen

Storage

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

Wireless

Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2

Camera

1280 x 720

Weight

2.84lbs (1.29kg)

Dimensions

11.4 x 8.1 x 0.8in (29 x 20.5 x 2cm)

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Bulky for the size
• Solid lid hinge
• Only one USB-C port and no SD card slot

The Chromebook Spin 312 takes a somewhat utilitarian approach to design, with its sharp angles, large vents and lid hinges appearing quite conspicuous. However, it's still a compact device, and has enough flat sides to help impart some sleekness.

This is further aided by the steely grey colorway and look of the chassis materials, which have a subtle shine to them. What’s more, the quality of these materials seems high, feeling solid and fairly premium to the touch. This extends to the lightly textured keycaps and silky smooth touchpad.

The hinge mechanism is also reassuringly solid. There’s no wobble at any angle, yet it’s smooth and easy to open and adjust. This stability also helps when tenting the Chromebook Spin 312 to use it in touchscreen mode.

However, it can’t compete with the best tablets for usability. Despite its small 12-inch size, the Chromebook Spin 312 is a relatively thick and heavy slab, which can make it awkward to hold in the hand when folded back all the way.

The screen has a large bezel around it, which somewhat compromises the already limited real estate for the display. On a more positive note, it's made from Corning Gorilla Glass, so it should prove resistant to wear and tear when taking the Chromebook Spin 312 on your travels.

Port selection is reasonable for a Chromebook this small, although it’s a minor shame there’s only one USB-C port and SD card slot, as you’ll find two on many modern Chromebooks. Still, you do at least get two USB-A ports, and I also welcome the inclusion of a dedicated HDMI port and a 3.5mm audio jack.

• Design score: 4 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Performance

(Image credit: Future)

• Capable of light work
• Sharp but reflective display
• Struggles with intensive tasks

Benchmarks

These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the Acer Chromebook Spin 312:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 11 hours and 12 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 179.327
Kraken Benchmark: 1309.3ms
Speedometer 3.0: 9.52 (±0.52)

The Chromebook Spin 312 offers capable enough performance for everyday tasks, meeting the demands typically placed upon Chromebooks. Apps load fast and light productivity and general browsing are handled well. Despite its somewhat limited 4GB of RAM, it’s even capable of some degree of multitasking, coping well with multiple browser tabs open, for instance.

However, it can come a little unstuck when those tabs are running more complex activities, or when multiple apps are in play. The Chromebook Spin 312 can also generate a fair amount of heat underneath, which is bothersome when on your lap.

Gaming performance isn’t particularly impressive, either. It can handle some mobile titles, but you’ll likely have to play with modest graphics settings. When I played Asphalt Legends Unite, for instance, high settings caused stutters and considerable slow downs, rendering the game almost unplayable. However, it ran much better on lower settings, if not quite as smooth or as fast as some rivals can manage – and certainly the Chromebook Spin 312 isn’t a match for the best gaming laptops in this regard.

When it comes to video playback, the Chromebook Spin 312 can handle streaming content in 4K, although it’s not always the smoothest experience. The WUXGA display at least provides a sharp image: the 1920 x 1200 resolution might sound a little low compared to other laptops and some Chromebooks on the market today, but due to its small screen size, it looks sharper than you might imagine.

(Image credit: Future)

It’s also quite bright when displaying lighter shades. However, while colors are rendered well enough, they don’t appear quite as vibrant as those on the displays equipped in the best laptops or best MacBooks, looking slightly washed-out by comparison.

The screen is also quite reflective, which, combined with its somewhat lackluster backlighting, makes darker scenes hard to view at times. However, the effect isn’t too troublesome, and compared to many other Chromebooks, the Chromebook Spin 312 is still great for viewing content.

The touchscreen capability is impressive, too. It responds well to all sorts of swipes and gestures, making for smooth doodles and handwriting, even if it's a little grabby at times. It’s also a shame no stylus is included to unleash the full potential of its functionality.

Unfortunately, the touchpad is less responsive, and I experienced issues with its tracking: many times it felt as if it was either dragging or jumping ahead, lacking the smoothness I was expecting. As a result, I struggled to use it accurately, which can really hamper productivity.

By contrast, typing with the Chromebook Spin 312 is a largely pleasant experience. The keys are satisfyingly damped and are spread surprisingly wide for a Chromebook this small. The keycaps also feel nice under the finger tips thanks to their texture, although they lack grip, which is made worse by the lack of indentation as well. This made the keyboard feel less secure in use, but overall I still found it amenable for typing quickly on.

• Performance score: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Battery life

(Image credit: Future)

The battery life of the Chromebook Spin 312 is quite impressive. During our tests, where we ran a movie on a continuous loop, it managed to last over 11 hours. This makes it much better than the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360, which could only manage six and a half hours. It also beats the Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023), one of the best Chromebooks around in our view, which managed over 10 hours.

However, it can’t outlive the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, which, when we tested it, endured for a remarkable 16 hours and 20 minutes. However, this is rather exceptional in the Chromebook world, and the Chromebook Spin 312 can still lay claim to having one of the best battery lives in the market.

• Battery life: 4.5 / 5

Should I buy the Acer Chromebook Spin 312?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The Chromebook Spin 312 sits somewhere in the middle of the market given its design and spec, being cheaper than some rivals but more expensive than others.

3.5 / 5

Design

It’s solidly made and small enough to make it portable, although it’s a little bulky for tablet-style use.

4 / 5

Performance

The Chromebook Spin 312 can handle basic tasking, while the display is pleasingly sharp, if not the most vibrant and a tad too reflective.

3.5 / 5

Battery life

It may not have the very best battery life of a Chromebook, but its 11-hour performance still places it in the upper echelons.

4.5 / 5

Total Score

If you’re looking for a Chromebook you can use with touch inputs and doesn’t take up much space, you shouldn’t be disappointed with the Chromebook Spin 312 – so long as you don’t demand too much from it.

4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want something compact
The 12-inch size makes the Chromebook Spin 312 easy to travel with, and yet it doesn't feel compromised when typing or getting work done.

You want a 2-in-1 device
The 360-degree rotating touchscreen makes the Chromebook Spin 312 versatile, although it’s perhaps not best suited for full-on tablet-style use.

Don't buy it if...

You want the fastest Chromebook
Although it's surprisingly capable, those with more demanding workloads should seek more powerful models.

You want the sveltest device
Despite its small size, the Chromebook Spin 312 is fairly bulky and weighty, which impairs its tablet-style credentials.

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Also consider

Acer Chromebook Spin 312

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

Price

Starting from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)

$429.99 / £419 / AU$707

$339 / £299 / AU$499

CPU

Intel N100 (4 threads, 3.4GHz)

Intel Celeron N4500 1.10GHz (2 threads, 2.80GHz)

1.1GHz Intel Celeron N4020 (dual-core, 4MB cache, up to 2.8GHz Burst)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM

4GB LPDDR5

4GB LPDDR4x

4GB DDR4

Screen

12.2-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS LCD, 16:10, 60Hz touchscreen

12.4-inch WQXGA LED Display (2560 x 1600), touchscreen

11-inch IPS touchscreen, 1,366 x 768 pixels

Storage

64GB eMMC

64GB eMMC

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

1x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x microSD, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-C with charging, 2x USB-A 3.1 Gen1, microSD

Wireless

Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2

Wi-Fi 6, LTE (Option), Bluetooth v5.1

802.11AC (2 x 2) WiFi, Bluetooth® 4.2

Camera

1280 x 720

720p / 8MP

720p

Weight

2.84lbs (1.29kg)

2.82lbs (1.28kg)

2.64lbs (1.2kg)

Dimensions

11.4 x 8.1 x 0.8in (29 x 20.5 x 2cm)

11.3 x 8.1 x 0.7 inches (28.8 x 20.7 x 1.7cm)

0.7 x 11.41 x 8.18 inches (17.8 x 290 x 207.8mm)

Here are some alternatives if the Acer Chromebook Spin 312 doesn't sound right for your needs:

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360
The Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 is about the same size as the Chromebook Spin 312, but it has a thinner and lighter construction, as well as a more upmarket design, which is one of the best in class. The display is even sharper and more vibrant, too. It’s a shame that its performance fails to live up to its looks, but if you only have very light workloads, it’ll make a pleasant companion. Read our full Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 review.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook
The IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook boasts great build quality and excellent battery life. However, it’s let down by unremarkable performance and uninspiring looks. Still, it’s powerful enough for light productivity and schoolwork, hence its inclusion on our best Chromebook guide. Read our full Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review.

How I tested the Acer Chromebook Spin 312

• Tested for two days
• Used for work and for entertainment
• Chromebook reviewing experience

I tested the Chromebook Spin 312 for a couple of days, during which time I used it working, gaming, and general browsing.

I used word processing and spreadsheet applications, streamed 4K content on YouTube, and played games such as Asphalt Legends Unite. I also connected various peripherals via Bluetooth.

I have been using Chromebooks for a while, and have reviewed a number of them as well, ranging in price, form factor, and spec. I have also reviewed plenty of Windows laptops.

• First reviewed: June 2025
• Read more about how we test

Acer Chromebook Plus 516: Two-minute review

The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is a large device with a reasonably strong spec, making it ideal for various productivity and entertainment needs. It might not look terribly auspicious, and the color is a little dour, but it's surprisingly thin for a Chromebook this size, which helps to make it more sleek.

It’s also a well-made machine, with materials that feel durable yet light. What’s more, the lid hinges allow for easy opening and offer stability at any angle all the way up to 170 degrees.

It also has one of the best Chromebook keyboards in terms of layout, with plenty of keys included, such as a number pad, without compromising spacing. This makes typing easy, and the snappy nature of the individual keys makes them satisfying, too.

The touchpad is equally capable, providing responsive inputs and plenty of accuracy, which, combined with its large size, makes for easy navigation. It also manages to keep out of the way while typing.

(Image credit: Future)

Port selection on the Chromebook Plus 516 is quite good, and I was pleased to see the inclusion of two USB-C ports. However, it’s a minor shame both are on the same side, which may limit your options when plugging into an outlet. Still, the two USB-A ports, HDMI port and audio jack are all welcome additions.

In terms of performance, the Chromebook Plus 516 handles most tasks well. It loads apps quickly and multitasks very well. Even mobile gaming on high settings is viable. It also takes Ultra HD content in its stride, streaming it without a hitch for the most part. Viewing such content is made all the more enjoyable thanks to that large, crisp, and vibrant display, which also does an admirable job of keeping reflections at bay.

Unfortunately, the battery life of the Chromebook Plus 516 isn’t particularly impressive relative to its rivals. During our movie playback test, it failed to break past eight hours, a threshold many modern Chromebooks can exceed.

With a starting price of £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830), the Chromebook Plus 516 sits somewhere in the middle of the market. However, it's good value when you consider its performance, display, and productivity credentials.

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Price and availability

• Starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)
• Available from August in the UK
• Mid-market pricing

The Chromebook Plus 516 starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830) and is available in the UK from August in one colorway. Multiple storage, CPU, RAM and graphics options are configurable. A backlit keyboard can also be specified, as can a touch screen.

It’s about the same price as the equally capable but slightly smaller Acer Chromebook Plus 514. Like that model, the 516 sits somewhere in the middle of the market, but perhaps represents slightly better value owing to the larger screen size and extra keys.

However, if you still want great performance but at a lower price, the older Acer Chromebook Plus 515 remains a great pick, and its 15.6-inch measurement is still big enough to please those who prefer large displays; there’s a reason we think it’s one of the best student Chromebooks, after all.

If you’re after something cheaper still, we think the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is the best student laptop for those on a budget. Its performance is no match for the mightier Chromebook Plus 516, and it’s also much smaller, but it has the advantage of being a 2-in-1 device, thanks to its 360-degree rotation and touchscreen.

• Value: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Specs

These specs pertain to my review unit of the Acer Chromebook Plus 516:

Price

£399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)

CPU

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

RAM

8GB LPDDR5

Screen

16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

Storage

128GB UFS

Ports

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

Wireless

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Camera

HD 1080p

Weight

3.75lbs (1.7kg)

Dimensions

14.1 x 10 x 0.8 inches (359 x 253 x 19mm)

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Smart and well made
• Plenty of keys
• Both USB-C ports on same side

The Chromebook Plus 516 adopts the fairly typical Acer aesthetic, with a sleek but understated appearance. There’s nothing particularly spectacular about its looks, but it’s at least free from too many fussy details.

Despite its large size, it’s pleasingly thin and not quite as heavy as you’d expect it to be. It’s no match for smaller Chromebooks in terms of portability, but all sides are quite flat and smooth, which helps when sliding it into your bag.

The build quality is on par with the best Chromebooks. Certain materials look more premium than others, but all feel solid and durable. The keycaps are perhaps the least impressive visually, but they’re tightly fitted.

The hinge mechanism is similarly well-engineered. The lid is easy to open and move into any position, and its maximum recline angle of 170 degrees makes it versatile for various setups. What’s more, it remains stable in any position; there’s next to no wobble, which is all the more impressive given its thinness and lightness.

The keyboard features numerous shortcut keys on the F row, all of which are quite useful. Highlights include one for taking screenshots, one for dictation, and one for opening a menu containing various accessibility functions.

Being a Chromebook Plus, you also get a Quick Insert key, used for accessing files, opening recent documents or creating new ones, inserting links, using AI tools, and other productivity-based functions.

The keyboard even includes a navigation cluster and number pad, both of which I welcome. More impressively, these don’t compromise the layout spacing, thanks to the width of the device itself. The touchpad also manages to not get in the way while typing, despite its relatively large size.

I was pleased to see the Chromebook Plus 516 features two USB-C ports, although unfortunately they’re both the same side, which somewhat limits versatility when plugging into an outlet. Still, it’s nice to have more than one, and the further ports – two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm headset jack – are all welcome additions. There’s no SD card slot, though, which might be a problem for some users.

• Design score: 4 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Performance

(Image credit: Future)

• Fast and capable multitasker
• Can handle light gaming
• Sharp display

Benchmarks

These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the Acer Chromebook Plus 516:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 7 hours and 35 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 295.772
Kraken Benchmark: 398.5ms
Speedometer 3.0: 18.8 (±1.0)

The Chromebook Plus 516 is quite a capable performer. Creating and editing documents and spreadsheets is no problem for it, while switching between apps and multiple tabs is taken in its stride.

Gaming performance is also admirable. I managed to play Asphalt Legends Unite on high graphics settings without issue, running smoothly with little stutter. This was especially impressive given that the game recommended I play on lower settings based on the specs, but you’ll still want one of the best gaming laptops if you plan on playing more intensive games.

It can stream ultra HD content with relative ease as well. During my testing, I encountered little in the way of buffering or stuttering, making for seamless viewing in the main.

(Image credit: Future)

The experience is made even better thanks to the surprisingly vibrant display, which also avoids the washed-out appearance that afflicts some Chromebooks. Reflections do reveal themselves somewhat in darker scenes and unfavorable lighting conditions, but generally they’re kept at bay quite well.

Moreover, the 1920 x 1200 resolution is suitably sharp for its large size, which makes the UI very clear, while the thin bezels ensure that the most is made of the allotted real estate.

Typing on the Chromebook Plus 516 is also a pleasure. Despite the inauspicious looking keys, they perform well, with their light actuation and just enough dampening to make them tactile. Despite the inclusion of a number pad and other extra keys, I didn’t find the layout cramped, which made for an accurate and comfortable typing experience.

The trackpad is brilliantly smooth and very precise, tracking perfectly with my finger movements and gestures. As with the keys, it only requires a light touch, which makes it easy to use.

• Performance score: 4.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Battery life

(Image credit: Future)

The Chromebook Plus 516 doesn't have a terribly impressive battery life, posting a below-average score during our test. We ran a movie on a continuous loop, and it gave up the ghost after seven hours and 35 minutes.

The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 we tested fared better, managing to last almost an hour longer. The much smaller Chromebook Spin 312 also eclipsed it, running all the way past 11 hours before total depletion.

However, the Chromebook Plus 516 still did better than the older Chromebook Plus 515, which only managed five hours. However, if you’re after a device that can really go all day, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is perhaps your best choice, as this lasted over 16 hours in our movie playback test.

• Battery life: 2.5 / 5

Should I buy the Acer Chromebook Plus 516?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The Chromebook Plus 516 has a price you might expect for a Chromebook Plus, although its size and keyboard impart extra value.

3.5 / 5

Design

The Chromebook Plus 516 is pleasingly thin for such a large device, and the build quality is respectable. The keyboard is great for productivity, too.

4 / 5

Performance

The Chromebook Plus 516 can handle all sorts of tasks, including light gaming, while the sharp and vibrant display is great for viewing Ultra HD content.

4.5 / 5

Battery life

The Chromebook Plus 516 is far from the best in class when it comes to battery life, with many others capable of outliving it.

2.5 / 5

Total Score

The Chromebook Plus 516 is a great performer with a vibrant display and a useful keyboard. If you’re after a large Chromebook for work and play, it fits the bill quite well – so long as you don’t plan on using it unplugged all day long.

4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want a large display
At 16 inches, the Chromebook Plus 516 is one of the larger Chromebooks on the market, and the resolution is sharp enough to match.

You want fast performance
The Chromebook Plus 516 can handle most productivity tasks and even light gaming, thanks to its relatively strong spec.

Don't buy it if...

You want a convertible device
The Chromebook Plus 516 isn’t a 2-in-1 device, so it can’t be used like the best tablets.

You want the best battery life
Seven and a half hours is all you’ll get with continuous movie playback, which ranks in the lower half of the Chromebook league.

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Also consider

Acer Chromebook Plus 516

Acer Chromebook Plus 514

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

Price

Starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)

$399 / £399 (about AU$560)

$399.99 / £399.99 (around AU$633)

CPU

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

1.1GHz Intel Celeron N4020 (dual-core, 4MB cache, up to 2.8GHz Burst)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

 Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM

8GB LPDDR5

8GB LPDDR5

4GB DDR4

Screen

16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

11-inch IPS touchscreen, 1,366 x 768

Storage

128GB UFS

128GB UFS

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-C with charging, 2x USB-A, microSD

Wireless

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2

Camera

HD 1080p

HD 1080p

720p

Weight

3.75lbs (1.7kg)

3.15lbs (1.43kg)

2.64lbs (1.2kg)

Dimensions

14.1 x 10 x 0.8 inches (359 x 253 x 19mm)

12.9 x 8.9 x 0.8 inches (32.7 x 22.5 x 2cm)

0.7 x 11.41 x 8.18 inches (17.8 x 290 x 207.8mm)

Here are some alternatives to the Chromebook Plus 516:

Acer Chromebook Plus 514
An almost-equally large Chromebook Plus, the 514 boasts a similar performance and spec, although I would say the 516 has a slightly better display quality. The 514 also lacks the extra keys of the 516, which might deter those interested in extracting the maximum productivity from their machine. Read our Acer Chromebook Plus 514 review.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook
If you want something smaller, cheaper, and more versatile, look no further than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook. It’s convertible, so you can use it like a tablet, and it has an excellent battery life to boot. However, it’s not the quickest performer, but it's still sufficient, which is why it makes the best student laptop for those on a budget in our view. Read our Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review.

How I tested the Acer Chromebook Plus 516

• Tested for two days
• Used for a variety of tasks
• Abundant Chromebook reviewing experience

I tested the Chromebook Plus 516 for a few days, during which time I used it for a variety of tasks, including productivity, gaming, and browsing.

I edited spreadsheets and documents, used multiple tabs when browsing in Chrome, and streamed 4K content. I also played Asphalt Legends Unite, and connected various peripherals via Bluetooth.

I have used various Chromebooks and other laptop devices for decades, and have reviewed a number of them too (including other Acer models), varying in their price points, form factors, and performance.

• First reviewed: June 2025
• Read more about how we test

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