Get tech-ready for classes and content creation
To perform basic class functions (e.g. taking notes, completing exams) and create professional-quality multimedia content (e.g. editing video, analyzing data), Cronkite students use both smartphones and laptops. Desktop computers and professional editing technology are available in Cronkite School lab classrooms and editing suites, while media equipment is available for checkout in the Cronkite Equipment Lab. The Adobe Creative Suite and other software are provided to Cronkite students for free.
The Cronkite School recommends a minimum set of computer and smartphone specifications for most courses: Follow them to ensure you can complete your coursework without tech issues or delays. As you advance through your program, your computing and storage needs may increase.
Laptops
| RECOMMENDED | MINIMUM | |
| Model | MacBook Pro laptop | MacBook laptop* |
| Chip or Processor (CPU) | Apple Silicon M2, M3 or newer | Multicore Intel (64- bit) or Apple Silicon M1 |
| Memory or RAM | 16GB, 24GB or 32GB | 8GB minimum |
| Storage | 512GB SSD or more | 4GB+ for apps, plus space for project files |
| GPU/Graphics | Integrated GPU on Apple silicon or a dedicated GPU with 2GB+ VRAM for Intel Macs | 1.5GB - 2GB of VRAM |
| Operating System (OS) | Latest macOS | macOS Monterey (12) or later |
| Display | 1920 x 1080 or better | 1920 x 1080 or higher |
*Course software, equipment and instructions may not be compatible with PCs with similar specs.
Purchase laptops at the ASU Bookstore
Smartphones
| RECOMMENDED | MINIMUM | |
| Models | iPhone Pro, Samsung Ultra or Google Pixel Pro | iPhone, Samsung or Google Pixel |
| Processor | Apple's A-series (A18/A19 Pro) or top-tier Snapdragon/Tensor (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3/Elite, Google Tensor G4/G5) | Standard |
| Memory or RAM | 12GB or more | 12GB |
| Storage | 512GB/1TB recommended | 256GB minimum |
| Cameras | Versatile multi-lens setup (wide, ultrawide, telephoto) with large sensors (50MP+) and 4K/60fps video capability on all lenses | Single-lens |
| Operating System (OS) | iOS or Android (Pixel) | iOS or Android (Pixel) |
| Display | Large (6.3" or more) | Large (6.3" or more) |
Purchase smartphones at the ASU Bookstore
Software
Whether you're attending classes, creating content, diving into research or leading a student organization, you need the right tools to power your creativity and productivity. That’s why every Sun Devil gets a digital backpack full of cutting-edge technologies that will prepare you to lead in tomorrow’s workforce—from AI tools and Airtable to Dropbox storage and more.
All Cronkite students gain free access to the full Adobe Creative Cloud, which includes Photoshop, Premiere, Audition, After Effects and other media-critical tools.
Storage
To succeed in Cronkite courses, you must manage your device storage proactively. Shooting and editing video, photos and audio content requires significant free space, and you are expected to maintain enough available storage to complete coursework without delays.
Regularly review your phone, laptop, email and cloud storage for large or unnecessary files, delete unused apps, clear downloads and move photos and video you are no longer actively using off your device. All course media should be backed up and stored in an approved cloud service (such as your ASU-provided Dropbox storage) or on a physical external drive; do not treat your phone as long-term storage. Running out of space is not an acceptable reason for missed or incomplete work: If you do not know how to check, free up or expand your storage, contact the ASU Experience Center immediately, and an associate will walk you through the process for your specific device.