Title: Apple vs. Samsung: The Battle of Tablet Thermal Management
Subtitle: Effective Cooling Could Unlock More Power for Apple’s iPad Pro
By June Wan | ZDNet
June 25, 2022
It’s always fascinating to witness the ongoing battle between tech giants Apple and Samsung as they strive to create innovative products. For consumers, this rivalry translates into a win-win situation, with both companies constantly pushing the boundaries of mobile technology. While their smartphones and tablets share numerous similarities, there are also noteworthy differences. One area where these disparities become pronounced is in tablet thermal management.
At the recently concluded Samsung Unpacked event, one couldn’t help but notice the distinct approaches taken by the two companies when it comes to managing device temperatures. A device’s performance is directly proportional to the amount of heat it generates, which accounts for why thermal management is a critical consideration.
Although end users may only worry about cooling when their devices become uncomfortably warm to the touch, effective thermal management can greatly enhance performance and prolong the lifespan of a device. Heat, it should be noted, is a silent killer of electronic devices. It not only accelerates battery wear but also causes solder joints responsible for holding components together to fracture. Additionally, increased device temperature often prompts performance throttling as a cooling mechanism.
Samsung, ever cautious, is leaving no stone unturned in its quest for effective cooling solutions for its latest flagship tablet, the Tab S9. The company has incorporated a range of mechanisms into the tablet’s structure. Among them are layers of Thermal Interface Materials (TIM), strategically designed to dissipate heat both toward the display and down to the back of the case.
Furthermore, the Tab S9 marks the debut of vapor chamber technology in the Galaxy Tab series. This state-of-the-art technology provides an improved means of moving heat away from critical components, enabling efficient dissipation into the surrounding environment. Samsung’s focus on cooling ensures that users can push the boundaries of their devices without compromising performance or longevity.
On the other hand, Apple’s iPad Pro, powered by the remarkable M2 chip also found in the MacBook Pro, shows some room for improvement in terms of cooling capabilities. Users familiar with resource-intensive apps like DaVinci Resolve may have experienced moments when the iPad Pro’s performance was hindered by excessive heat buildup. In fact, the slight lag in performance can be attributed to cooling limitations, resulting in the M2 chip running approximately 3% slower than its full potential.
As the competition between Apple and Samsung intensifies, effective thermal management emerges as a crucial factor in maximizing a device’s potential. Although Samsung’s Tab S9 sets a benchmark with its robust cooling features, Apple’s iPad Pro could benefit from advancements in this area. Enhancing the cooling capabilities of Apple’s flagship tablet would allow users to fully unleash the power of the M2 chip, opening up new possibilities for resource-intensive tasks.
Only time will tell how these two tech giants will continue to push the boundaries of mobile technology. Whether it be Samsung’s innovative vapor chamber technology or Apple’s pursuit of enhanced cooling solutions, consumers can look forward to more powerful and efficient devices in the future.
Note: The content in this article is based on the author’s personal observations and opinions.
Disclaimer: This article is solely the author’s opinion and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of ZDNet.