In this week's episode, we take a closer look at the Microsoft Surface Laptop and whether it's worth buying in its current state. While it's one of the most aesthetically pleasing laptops on the market, with its wedge design and color options, it hasn't received a real update since the first generation. One of the biggest drawbacks is the thick bezels, which make it feel outdated compared to other laptops with thinner bezels. Additionally, the 15" model doesn't take advantage of the extra space with upgrades, and it lacks modern features found on the rest of the Surface lineup.

Despite its shortcomings, the Surface Laptop still has its fans who appreciate its design and the 3:2 display. However, with the release of the Surface Laptop Go, Microsoft's budget option with slimmer bezels and rounded corners, it's hard to justify paying more for the Surface Laptop 5.

As we discuss the pros and cons of the Surface Laptop, we also delve into the debate over form vs. function. Some people prefer larger bezels for easier touchscreen use, while others prefer thinner bezels for a sleeker look. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what features and design elements are important to each individual.

In this episode, we delve into the upcoming release of the Nothing Phone (2), an exciting addition to the smartphone market. With a new dark grey color and a rounded back panel, this phone boasts a redesigned OS and updated features that make it a step up from its predecessor. The LED glyph interface has been updated with more lighting zones, allowing for more control over individual parts and greater functionality, including surface-level notifications. The software has also been given a significant overhaul, with a cleaner and more consistent design that centers around new widgets and app icons. The Phone (2) has also received a major upgrade in terms of performance, with a midrange Snapdragon chip and a larger, brighter display that can change its refresh rate depending on usage. The battery has been upgraded and optimized for efficiency, resulting in a 40% increase in battery life over the previous generation. Overall, the Phone (2) is a solid upgrade over the original and is set to hit U.S. markets for $600.

Whenever I see someone compare two pieces of tech, I tend to notice that the final verdict often depends on overall performance. As long as the device functions well and fits your needs, then it is considered the better product.

While that is definitely true, there are also companies that try to put a lot of focus on looks. I myself have had to make several decisions of what product to buy, and more often than I’d like to admit, I’ve often made my final decision based on a product’s look and feel.

I’ve been reflecting on this recently, and it’s led me to consider the argument of form vs. function, and from what I’ve seen and experienced, I truly believe that both play a significant role in tech design.

But more often than not, companies tend to put too much focus into one or the other.