John Velasco
John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.
Latest articles by John Velasco
The Galaxy S25 Ultra could beat iPhone 16 Pro Max with Samsung's most underrated feature
By John Velasco published
With the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra expected for early release next year, the company can't afford to again to glaze over the features of Samsung DeX.
Best cheap phones under $300 in 2024
By John Velasco last updated
We've gathered the best cheap phones for those who are on a tight budget. You have to make serious compromises with these devices, but at least they're inexpensive.
I put Apple Image Playground vs Google Pixel Studio to the test — which AI image generator wins?
By John Velasco published
Only the most accurate one can come out on top
Samsung Galaxy S25: All the rumors so far
By John Velasco last updated
Rumors and news about the Samsung Galaxy S25 are starting to ramp up, so we detail everything we know about the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra.
Best Metro by T-Mobile phones 2024
By John Velasco last updated
Here are the best Metro by T-Mobile phones, including inexpensive models that won't bust your budget.
I just rode the Honda Motocompacto — and it’s the weirdest scooter I've ever tried
By John Velasco published
I rode Honda's Motocompacto to see how this strange looking electric scooter handles and whether it could be an ideal commuter scooter.
I tried astrophotography on my iPhone 16 Pro Max to shoot galaxies, nebulas, and star clusters — these were my best captures
By John Velasco published
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is an excellent shooter for low light, so I tried astrophotography to capture some of my favorite deep space objects.
Best foldable phones of 2024
By John Velasco last updated
More phone makers than ever are coming out with devices you can fold into more compact designs. These are the best foldable phones we’ve tested.
Apple iPhone 16 review: No more Pro envy
By John Velasco last updated
It's really a Pro in disguise given its similar features
Best unlocked phones in 2024
By John Velasco last updated
The best unlocked phones give you the freedom to choose your carrier without being bogged down by payment plans.
I drove a Mazda CX-90 PHEV for a week — and no other EV I’ve tested can match its range
By John Velasco published
You won't have to fill up as frequently with gas
Visual Intelligence finally gives Apple its version of Google Lens — here’s how to use it
By John Velasco published
With the iOS 18.2 developer beta, it unlocks Apple Intelligence to give the iPhone 16 new searching powers with the help of the Camera Control button.
Best camera phones in 2024
By John Velasco last updated
We've tested all the best camera phones, and these are the ones that rise to the top.
Best cheap phones 2024 tested — November top picks
By John Velasco last updated
These are the best cheap phones you can buy based on our testing and reviews.
Best cell phone signal boosters 2024
By John Velasco last updated
The best cell phone signal boosters fix poor service at home or on the road. Some even support all carriers.
CMF Phone 1 review: Shockingly good for $239
By John Velasco published
Few phones offer this much value, especially at under $300. In my CMF Phone 1 review, you'll find out how this Nothing made phone stands out.
Nothing Phone 2a glow-in-the-dark edition is exactly what we need more of — there's just one problem
By John Velasco published
The Nothing Phone 2a Plus Community Edition is the result of a collaboration between Nothing and some of its most loyal fans, resulting in a glow-in-the-dark version of the Nothing Phone 2a Plus.
Google Pixel 8 vs. Pixel 8 Pro: Which phone is best for you?
By John Velasco last updated
If you're torn about which of Google's new flagship phones is best for you, here's our comparison of the Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8 Pro to help you make up your mind.
I used Apple’s Clean Up and Google’s Magic Eraser on my photos — which one’s the better AI tool?
By John Velasco published
I used Apple Intelligence's new Clean Up feature and Google's Magic Eraser to remove unwanted subjects in my photos. Here's how they turned out.
iOS 18.1 is finally here — 5 Apple Intelligence features you need to try first
By John Velasco published
With the release of iOS 18.1, it finally brings new features you should try on your iPhone first, including all of the Apple Intelligence features that will transform the way you use your device.
iOS 18.1 is finally here — 5 Apple Intelligence features you need to try first
By John Velasco published
With the release of iOS 18.1, it finally brings new features you should try on your iPhone first, including all of the Apple Intelligence features that will transform the way you use your device.
I drove a Chevrolet Equinox EV for a week — here's my pros and cons
By John Velasco published
After driving the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV 2LT, it confidently proves to me that you don't have to spend a huge fortune on an electric vehicle to drive around a family with comfort and ease.
Best Android apps in 2024
By Philip Michaels, John Velasco last updated
There are plenty of apps in the Google Play store, but we tracked down the best Android apps that deserve a place on your smartphone.
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