Concise Overview

• Design Advancement: The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL showcases a deeper profile and a novel rounded rectangular camera hub for a stylish, upscale appearance.
• Camera Quality: Featuring a 42MP front camera alongside a formidable triple rear camera setup, this device excels in photography.
• Display Excellence: The 6.8-inch Super Actua Display, achieving a peak brightness of 3000 nits, ensures exceptional outdoor visibility.
• Enhanced Performance: Driven by the Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers lightning-fast performance.
• Long Battery Life: A substantial 5060 mAh battery guarantees extended usage, even during demanding operations.
• AI Features: Noteworthy AI capabilities such as Gemini AI, Call Notes, and Super Res Video improve the overall user experience.
• Price in Australia: Priced from A$1,849, it stands as a competitive choice among flagship models like the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
• Identified Concerns: Issues with Google Wallet and absent AI functionalities in Australia highlight areas for enhancement.

Design

The aesthetics of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL represent a remarkable shift from earlier models. Boasting a deeper chassis and flat matte aluminum edges, it evokes the design essence of the iPhone 4, providing a solid grip. The evolution from a camera strip to a rounded rectangular camera hub also presents a significant update, creating a fresh visual appeal. While some users may prefer the sleek camera strip, the new design is intended to deliver a more cohesive back when paired with a case, which most users typically use.

Google’s official case, featuring a silicone/rubberized finish, enhances grip and elevates the overall premium feel of the device. Yet, the standout feature remains the 6.8-inch Super Actua Display, captivating users with its brightness and vibrancy, making the hardware almost forgettable once the screen is activated.

Features

Camera

Google has excelled with the camera configuration on the Pixel 9 Pro XL. The front-facing 42MP camera offers a 103° Ultra-Wide Field of View and 30% greater light sensitivity, revolutionizing content creation. Whether for vlogs or selfies, the front camera produces breathtaking results, making it a vital selling point for those dependent on high-caliber front-facing video.

The rear camera setup is just as remarkable, featuring a 50MP wide lens, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens. Collectively, these lenses accommodate a vast array of photography preferences, from macro shots to expansive vistas, all enhanced by Google’s AI-infused image processing. The AI enhancements elevate raw captures, resulting in visually stunning photos that will impress even the most discerning photography aficionados.

Display

The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 6.8-inch Super Actua Display represents a major upgrade, particularly regarding brightness and color fidelity. With a maximum brightness of 3000 nits, the display remains crisp and colorful even in direct sunlight. The Variable Refresh Rate (1-120Hz) smartly adapts to the displayed content, guaranteeing fluid navigation and gaming experiences while ensuring energy efficiency. This display indeed raises the bar for smartphone screens, making it hard to anticipate how Google might enhance it further.

Performance

At its core, the Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on Google’s Tensor G4 chip, teamed with 16GB of RAM. This synergy results in a device that delivers exceptionally swift performance, whether launching applications, multitasking, or gaming. A direct comparison with the Pixel 7 Pro highlights the performance leaps Google has achieved. For example, launching a game like Pokémon Go on the Pixel 9 Pro XL requires just over 10 seconds, in stark contrast to the more than 20 seconds needed on a two-year-old device.

Video Recording

When it comes to video capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL provides two main options: 4K60 and 8K30. Notably, the 8K recording process is distinctive. Videos are first recorded in 4K and then elevated to 8K through cloud processing, enhancing lighting, sharpness, and colors. Although the processing time can be extensive, the end result is worth the wait, yielding high-quality videos that impress on any display.

Audio

The integrated speakers on the Pixel 9 Pro XL have received substantial improvements. They are not only louder but also retain sound quality even at elevated volumes. This characteristic is especially advantageous for users who frequently play audio without headphones, resulting in a versatile device for both personal and communal listening sessions.

Software

The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes pre-installed with Android 14, with an update to Android 15 anticipated shortly. The software is rich with AI features that enhance day-to-day functionality. The Gemini AI offers real-time support, greatly exceeding Google Assistant in capabilities. The Call Notes feature can transcribe and summarize discussions, while the Pixel Screenshots application delivers enhanced screenshot management. The Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor and Secure Face Unlock provide additional convenience and security for users.

Battery Performance

The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s 5060 mAh battery is yet another highlight. Even under intensive usage, the battery can easily survive through a complete day, often with 30% or more remaining by evening. On lighter usage days, it can stretch into the next day effortlessly, establishing it as one of the most dependable batteries available. The optional 45W Fast Charger can restore up to 70% in just half an hour, although the absence of Qi2 wireless charging presents a slight downside.

Challenges and Potential

Despite its numerous strengths, the Pixel 9 Pro XL has its challenges. The AI features, while impressive, are not exclusive to the Pixel line and can be found in other Android devices. The Google Wallet problem, where some users face difficulties with Tap to Pay, is particularly aggravating and requires urgent attention.

The AI functionalities, although cutting-edge, hold room for enhancements. For example, the lack of options to alter AI voices in Australia seems like an unnecessary constraint. Additionally, while on-device AI tools like Pixel Studio are handy, they often do not measure up against cloud-based services like Grok or Meta.AI.

Pricing and Availability

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is available at A$1,849 in Australia, making it a comparatively budget-friendly choice in contrast to rivals like the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which begins at A$2,199. The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes in four color variants: Porcelain, Rose Quartz, Hazel, and Obsidian, and provides storage configurations ranging from 128GB to 1TB. Trade-in programs may further lessen the price, with Google offering up to A$500 for a two-year-old Pixel 7 Pro.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL emerges as a remarkable flagship smartphone, merging innovative design, top-notch camera technology, and sophisticated AI capabilities. Although it carries a premium price tag, it delivers significant value, especially when juxtaposed with other high-end smartphones. However, Google will need to address certain issues, particularly with Google Wallet, and persist in innovating to maximize the hardware’s potential.

Recap

To summarize, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL presents an appealing option for anyone seeking a high-performance smartphone with state-of-the-art features. Its design, camera, display, and battery life rank among the best, positioning it as a formidable competitor in the premium smartphone arena. While there are a few issues to keep in mind, the overall offering is difficult to surpass at its price.

Q: How does the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL compare to the Pixel 7 Pro?

A:

The Pixel 9 Pro XL brings substantial advances in design, performance, and camera quality when compared to the Pixel 7 Pro. The new Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM facilitate quicker performance, while the revamped camera system yields superior image quality and additional features. The display is also more luminous and vibrant, making it a worthy upgrade for users transitioning from older Pixel versions.

Q: Is the Pixel 9 Pro XL justifiable at its price?

A:

Absolutely, the Pixel 9 Pro XL provides remarkable value for its price, particularly when stacked against rival flagship models like the iPhone 15 Pro Max. With its advanced features and robust performance, it stands as a strong contender in the premium smartphone landscape.

Q: What are the primary concerns with the Pixel 9 Pro XL?

A:

The chief issues with the Pixel 9 Pro XL include complications…

Reserve Bank of Australia Teams Up with NTT for a Comprehensive IT Infrastructure Revamp

Overview:

• The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has contracted NTT Australia for a $12.7 million agreement to create and implement new IT infrastructure as part of the CoreMod initiative.
• The CoreMod initiative encompasses setting up a new data center and transitioning critical workloads.
• This project is projected to continue until 2027, featuring several vital milestones, such as the migration of business applications and the retirement of the existing data center.
• RBA has previously invested substantially in its IT infrastructure, including agreements with Cisco and Hitachi Vantara Australia.
• The intended IT infrastructure aims to bolster the resilience, security, and efficiency of Australia’s payments system.

CoreMod Initiative: A Tactical IT Transformation

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is embarking on a pivotal stage in its CoreMod initiative, signifying a tactical transformation of its IT infrastructure. The initiative has entered the design and implementation phase, with NTT Australia chosen to lead this crucial endeavor. The contract with NTT, valued at $12.7 million, is set to commence now and extend through October 2025.

What Does the CoreMod Initiative Entail?

Introduced at the end of the previous year, CoreMod is a multi-year initiative designed to develop a future-ready IT infrastructure for the RBA. The plan entails establishing a new data center at a CDC facility, followed by the transition of critical workloads into this newly built environment. This effort highlights RBA’s dedication to modernizing its IT capabilities, enhancing resilience, security, and operational efficiency.

Strategic Collaboration with NTT Australia

The alliance with NTT Australia is crucial for the effective execution of the CoreMod initiative. Janet Mengel, CoreMod Program Director, stated that this partnership will empower RBA to build a modern, secure infrastructure platform, vital for the future of Australia’s payments infrastructure. NTT will play an essential role in transitioning national critical applications to the new infrastructure, establishing a solid, efficient, and secure payments framework for Australians.

Major Investments and Upcoming Milestones

Notable Infrastructure Investments

Alongside the NTT agreement, RBA has made several significant infrastructure-related purchases this year. Noteworthy is the awarding of contracts to NTT Australia for Cisco hardware and software, totaling $67.5 million, and an extra $16.1 million for F5 load balancers. Furthermore, the central bank has established a $13.6 million “managed services” contract with Hitachi Vantara Australia.

Upcoming Milestones and Schedule

RBA has delineated a clear trajectory for the CoreMod initiative, presenting several critical milestones:

– **2025**: Finalization of infrastructure design and implementation.
– **2026**: Transition of business applications and rollout of an observability tool.
– **2027**: Retirement of the current head office data center.

This schedule reflects RBA’s enduring commitment to a smooth shift to an advanced IT infrastructure.

Conclusion

The Reserve Bank of Australia’s CoreMod initiative signifies a considerable investment in the future of the nation’s financial framework. By collaborating with NTT Australia, the RBA is undertaking essential measures to create a resilient, secure, and efficient IT platform that will underpin Australia’s payments infrastructure for years to come. With primary milestones established through 2027, the initiative is set to modernize the RBA’s operations, ensuring responsiveness to the challenges of a progressively digital economy.

Q&A: Clarifying the RBA’s CoreMod Initiative

Q: What is the CoreMod initiative?

A:

The CoreMod initiative is a multi-year effort by the Reserve Bank of Australia aimed at modernizing its IT infrastructure. It involves creating a new head office data center and migrating essential workloads, assuring a future-ready platform for the nation’s payment systems.

Q: Why was NTT Australia chosen for this initiative?

A:

NTT Australia was selected due to its proficiency in IT infrastructure design and implementation. The $12.7 million agreement highlights RBA’s confidence in NTT’s capabilities to deliver a secure and resilient platform that is critical for the success of the CoreMod initiative.

Q: What are the main milestones of the CoreMod initiative?

A:

The primary milestones consist of completing infrastructure design and implementation by 2025, migrating business applications and deploying an observability tool by 2026, and decommissioning the existing data center by 2027.

Q: How does the CoreMod initiative benefit Australia?

A:

The CoreMod initiative will strengthen the resilience, security, and efficiency of Australia’s payments framework, ensuring it can effectively meet future demands. This will benefit Australian businesses and consumers by offering a more dependable and secure financial infrastructure.

Q: What other investments have been made by RBA in IT infrastructure?

A:

RBA has made several noteworthy investments, such as contracts with NTT Australia for Cisco hardware and software ($67.5 million) and F5 load balancers ($16.1 million), in addition to a $13.6 million managed services agreement with Hitachi Vantara Australia.

Q: How long is the timeframe for the CoreMod initiative’s completion?

A:

The CoreMod initiative is anticipated to run until mid-to-late 2027, with various stages of implementation and migration outlined throughout this timeframe.

Why Retaining Older Technology Could Be a Wise Financial Strategy

Reasons Some Organisations are Reluctant to Transition to the Cloud

The appeal of cloud computing has been considerable in recent times, leading many organisations to adopt cloud-based technologies. Nonetheless, an increasing number of companies are reevaluating this transition, especially regarding the retention of certain technologies on-premises. Tim McPherson, Northern Region General Manager for Sales at Interactive, points out that at some juncture, every organisation must meticulously assess which assets remain onsite and which can be migrated to the cloud.

Financial Implications

A prominent factor behind the decision to keep older technology is cost considerations. Although cloud services might appear less expensive initially, ongoing costs can accumulate rapidly. Expenses related to licensing, data transfer, and continuous subscription fees can render cloud solutions pricier than managing current hardware and software. For budget-conscious organisations, particularly in sectors with narrow margins, maintaining older technology can be a more financially feasible approach.

Operational Continuity and Control

Another significant reason for the preference for older technology is the operational continuity it ensures. Time-tested systems that have operated for years tend to be stable and well familiar to IT teams. Shifting to the cloud introduces uncertainties that can interrupt business functions, such as internet connectivity issues, service interruptions, and evolving service agreements. Moreover, older technologies allow organisations to uphold better control over their data, which is vital for sectors with strict compliance mandates.

Security and Compliance

Concerns surrounding data security and compliance are critical for many organisations, especially those operating in regulated areas like finance and healthcare. On-premises technology provides a superior level of control over data security compared to cloud options, where data is kept off-site. Retaining older systems allows companies to adhere to local regulations and standards more effortlessly, which can be challenging to accomplish with cloud-hosted solutions.

Customisation and Integration

Legacy systems are often tailored to fulfil the specific demands of an organisation. These customised solutions can be arduous to duplicate in a cloud environment, where standardisation is prevalent. Furthermore, legacy systems may integrate with other on-premises technologies that can be complicated and costly to transition to the cloud. For these reasons, numerous businesses find it more practical to retain their current setup rather than risk the disruptions associated with a comprehensive migration.

Conclusion

While cloud computing presents numerous advantages, it may not be suitable for every organisation. Financial limitations, operational reliability, data security, and customisation needs are all legitimate considerations for holding onto older technologies. Prior to deciding to migrate to the cloud, companies should thoroughly examine their specific requirements and contemplate whether their existing infrastructure may still be the superior choice.

Q: What are the primary financial advantages of retaining older technology?

A: The primary financial benefits encompass avoiding ongoing subscription costs, minimizing the need for new licenses, and removing data transfer expenses linked to cloud services. Holding onto existing hardware also enables organisations to fully amortise their investments without incurring further costs.

Q: How does older technology ensure better operational stability?

A: Older systems are often well understood and have been optimised through years of operation. This knowledge lessens the likelihood of operational interruptions, as IT teams are already equipped to manage potential issues. Conversely, cloud transitions can introduce new factors that may cause unexpected downtimes.

Q: Why is data security more effective with on-premises technology?

A: On-premises technology provides organisations with complete control over their data, which is particularly crucial for industries bound by strict compliance rules. In cloud settings, where data is stored off-site, meeting local data protection regulations and standards can become more complex.

Q: Can cloud solutions be customised as much as on-premises technology?

A: Typically, cloud offerings are less adaptable than on-premises systems. Cloud providers generally supply standardised services that might not cater to an organisation’s specific needs. Custom integrations and specialised requirements can be difficult and costly to implement in the cloud, making older systems a more feasible alternative for some companies.

This magazine-style article is tailored according to optimal search engine standards, providing a thorough exploration of why retaining older technology could be a financially sound decision for businesses, especially in the Australian market. The article features a bullet-point recap for quick reference, in-depth sections for comprehensive insight, and a Q&A segment to address potential queries.

Tesla’s New Perth Sales, Service, and Delivery Centre: A Transformative Addition for Western Australia

Quick Overview:

• New Tesla Centre in Perth, positioned at 146 Carrington Street, O’Connor, WA, poised to launch this Saturday.
• This centre will function as a focal point for vehicle sales, deliveries, and service requirements throughout Western Australia.
• The grand opening event includes test drives, tech discussions, and fun activities for families.
• Registration is essential for the event; it’s dog-friendly with activities such as “Paint a Tesla” for children.
• Tesla Owners Club WA will be in attendance to discuss Novated Leasing and other topics.
• The grand opening agenda features a ribbon-cutting ceremony and opportunities to win a Tesla Weekend experience.

Tesla’s Growth in Western Australia

Tesla is poised to make a notable impact in Western Australia with the launch of its new Sales, Service, and Delivery Centre in O’Connor, Perth. This new establishment is anticipated to be a transformative resource for local EV fans, offering a vital hub for Tesla services and sales in the area.

Situated at 146 Carrington Street, O’Connor, WA 6163, the new centre is ideally placed to cater to Tesla owners and potential buyers throughout Western Australia. This expansion underscores Tesla’s dedication to enhancing its presence in Australia, especially in regions that have been historically underserved.

A Comprehensive Service Centre for Western Australia

The new Tesla Centre will provide an extensive array of services, effectively turning it into a one-stop destination for all Tesla-related needs. Whether you wish to buy a new Tesla, need service for your existing vehicle, or are awaiting a delivery, this centre will cover all these bases.

Western Australia, noted for its expansive landscape and increasing enthusiasm for electric vehicles, has long required a dedicated Tesla centre. The establishment of this facility aims to fill that void, ensuring Tesla owners in the area have improved access to sales and service assistance.

Grand Opening Festivities: What to Anticipate

The grand opening festivities, scheduled for this Saturday, are crafted to celebrate community engagement. Tesla fans can expect a day filled with activities, tech discussions, and the opportunity to explore the new centre.

Event Itinerary

The events will commence at 9:00am, featuring coffee and pastries from the beloved local Big Loaf Bakery. Attendees can partake in test drives throughout the day, allowing them to experience Tesla’s innovative technology up close. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the day’s activities:

• 9:00am: Coffee & pastries, along with all-day test drives.
• 9:30am: Ribbon cutting ceremony.
• 10:00am: Paint a Tesla – a fun, interactive activity for children.
• 10:30am: Service Tech Talk – gain insights into Tesla’s cutting-edge service features.
• 11:00am: Motors Tech Talk – explore the mechanics behind Tesla’s robust motors.
• 11:30am: Energy Tech Talk – learn about Tesla’s energy solutions.
• 12:00pm: Compete for a chance to win a Tesla Weekend experience.
• 1:00pm: Event wraps up.

Activities for Families and Pets

This event is designed to cater to families as well; the “Paint a Tesla” activity at 10:00am will surely delight the kids, offering them a creative outlet while learning more about electric vehicles.

Furthermore, the event is dog-friendly, providing the unique opportunity to experience a test drive alongside your furry companion. This approach reflects Tesla’s commitment to fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all.

Tesla Owners Club WA Involvement

Representatives from the Tesla Owners Club WA will be present to share their experiences and provide insights into various topics, including Novated Leasing, a favored option for financing electric vehicles in Australia. Their involvement will be a valuable resource for both current and prospective Tesla owners.

The Importance of This Centre

This new centre’s opening represents a significant advancement for Tesla and the broader EV sector in Western Australia. It reflects a rising interest in electric vehicles across the region and Tesla’s dedication to fulfilling that demand. By offering a complete suite of services ranging from sales to maintenance, Tesla is simplifying the transition for Western Australians to electric vehicles.

Additionally, this launch could catalyze further infrastructure developments in the area. With heightened interest and support, the region may see an increase in charging stations, service centres, and other facilities that enhance the growth of electric vehicles.

Conclusion

Tesla’s new Sales, Service, and Delivery Centre in O’Connor, Perth, is set to throw open its doors this Saturday, marking a pivotal achievement for the electric vehicle community in Western Australia. The centre will supply a full spectrum of services, including sales, deliveries, and maintenance, establishing itself as an essential resource for Tesla owners in the area. The grand opening event promises a day filled with various entertaining activities, tech discussions, and opportunities to win exclusive Tesla experiences. As Tesla continues to broaden its reach in Australia, this new centre highlights the growing demand for electric vehicles in Western Australia.

Q: Where can the new Tesla Centre be found?

A:

The new Tesla Centre is located at 146 Carrington Street, O’Connor, Western Australia 6163.

Q: What services are available at the new Tesla Centre?

A:

The new Tesla Centre will provide a complete range of services, comprising new vehicle sales, deliveries, and maintenance services.

Q: Is the grand opening event accessible to the public?

A:

Yes, the event is open to the public, although registration is necessary. You can sign up on the official Tesla event page.

Q: Will there be any special activities during the grand opening?

A:

Certainly, the event will feature test drives, tech discussions, a “Paint a Tesla” activity for kids, and opportunities to win a Tesla Weekend experience. The event is also dog-friendly.