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Updated 2024-11-26 22:45
Three reasons why I like Stuffcool's Ecolo sustainable USB-C cables
Stuffcool's latest USB-C cables are made out of 96% recycled plastic and work with the 65W USB PD standard.We have a lot of recommendations if you're looking for the best USB-C cables for your phones and accessories. And while you'll find plenty of great options if you want durable charges that deliver up to a 100W charge consistently, the one area where we haven't seen much progress is sustainable cables.That's why I was intrigued when Indian accessory maker Stuffcool announced that it was launching eco-friendly USB-C cables made out of recycled plastic. These cables are designed for data transfer and charging phones and notebooks, and go up to 65W over USB PD. I've had the cables plugged into the Stuffcool Centurion for the last month, and in that time I used them to charge phones, wireless earbuds, power banks, and other accessories. Here are three reasons why the Stuffcool Ecolo cables are a great choice for Indian users.Stuffcool Ecolo cables work with the 65W USB PD charg...
Here's what Horizon Forbidden West looks like on PS5 and PS4
Captured in Fidelity ModeAloy's journey, examined across Sony's consoles.Guerrilla Games' Horizon Forbidden West is here, continuing Aloy's adventures as she races to restore the world against a mysterious blight. It's a cross-generation game, meaning that like some other PlayStation titles, it's available on both Sony's latest and previous machines. Naturally, this means there's some fairly major changes between the two versions of the game in how they look and run, which we've examined so you can know what you'll be buying. Here's a graphics comparison of Horizon Forbidden West across PS5 and PS4.Horizon Forbidden West graphics comparisonHorizon Forbidden West supports two difference graphics modes on PS5: Fidelity mode and Performance mode. By contrast, the PS4 Pro and PS4 versions only support one version each. As such, there's a total of four different visuals modes for Horizon Forbidden West.In general, the PS5 Fidelity mode maintains the sharpest image, followed by th...
Horizon Forbidden West for PS5 review: The pinnacle of excellence
Captured in Fidelity Mode.Guerrilla delivers a perfect sequel to one of the best games ever made.Coming from a studio mostly known for Killzone, a first-person shooter series, Horizon Zero Dawn had no right to be as amazing as it was when it released in 2017. Guerrilla was certainly no stranger to sci-fi, but Horizon's gameplay was such a departure from the developer's usual work it would have been understandable if it had its fair share of issues. Instead, it became one of the best action-RPGs to come out in recent memory. Its sequel Horizon Forbidden West continues that legacy.I knew going in that I was going to have a blast with it, but I was surprised just how hard it was to put the controller down, even for a moment. I had picked up Pokémon Legends: Arceus a day after receiving a code for Forbidden West, and I've only played 30 minutes of it. Even after beating Horizon Forbidden West, I can only think about Aloy's latest adventure.It's easy to sink 30 or so hours into it...
Super Bowl Roku: how to watch Rams vs Bengals on NBC for free
Watching the Super Bowl on Roku gives you so many options to catch the big game tonight and you could be all set up in just a few minutes. Be it on a smart TV with the Roku suite built-in, or on one of the best Roku devices, you'll have excellent coverage to watch Rams vs Bengals in Super Bowl LVI on NBC - for FREE from some services too. We'll help you get involved if you're outside of the US as well. A quick reminder, the Super Bowl kick-off is set for 6:30pm ET, 3:30pm PT, 11:30pm GMT tonight.First up, the simplest option to watch the Super Bowl. If you already have NBC as a part of your cable service, then you're all set. Simply download the NBC app onto your Roku device, sign in with your cable provider credentials and sit back and enjoy the game. If you don't have NBC on your package, or you're a cord-cutter, then there are multiple options available to watch the Super Bowl on your Roku, including completly free options via handy free trials (double-check on the sign-up sites t...
Best faceplates to make your PS5 stand out
With the ease at which you can remove your PS5 faceplate covers, it's great to know that many alternatives are available, both official and aftermarket. But with the uncertainty that comes with veering away from the default option, where should you start? Whether you're dissatisfied with the original white color or just looking for a different option to help spruce up your new console, our guide on the best PS5 faceplates is here to help you get your console looking its best.The real dealOfficial PS5 Console CoversStaff PickAfter a long wait, official PS5 plates are finally here in various colors. As well as having covers sporting the official logo, those wishing to purchase licensed plates can be sure they're getting products of the highest quality. The Midnight Black and Cosmic Red colors are now available from the PlayStation Store, with the other colors coming later this year. The option to purchase a PS5 controller in each new color ensures a satisfying and complete ...
Doorbells should be smart too. Here's our recs for best Ring Doorbells!
Best answer: If your house is already equipped with low-voltage doorbell wiring, Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is the best consumer-grade video doorbell in Ring's lineup. Otherwise, Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) can run off a rechargeable battery and offers a solid experience for customers wanting a Ring doorbell.What is a Ring Doorbell?Ring's line of Wi-Fi-connected video doorbells is a great way to secure your home and give yourself some peace of mind when you're waiting on a package or going away on vacation. They detect motion before anyone gets near your door, alert your smartphone, and start recording video. Best of all, most Ring Doorbells go on sale pretty regularly, so keep an eye out during any upcoming holidays — that's typically when deals strike.Recorded footage gets stored in the cloud (with a subscription fee, of course), so you don't have to be watching live to catch a would-be burglar. There's also two-way audio, meaning you can talk to the person on the other en...
OnePlus is working on OxygenOS 13, throwing everyone into confusion
The company doesn't seem to be prepared to give up on the OxygenOS branding.What you need to knowOnePlus has confirmed the development of OxygenOS 13 based on Android 13.The revelation coincided with the company's announcement of its upcoming Open Ears Forum for developers and users on February 28.However, the current situation is causing confusion for many, as OxygenOS 12 was supposed to be the final version of OnePlus' Android skin.The merger of OnePlus and OPPO last year signaled a new direction for both companies, with the former's OxygenOS skin folding into the latter's ColorOS going forward. As a result, eligible OnePlus and OPPO smartphones will run a unified OS globally, beginning with the OnePlus 10 series.However, a new development seems to contradict that plan. OnePlus teased the development of OxygenOS 13 based on Android 13, and it's inviting users to take part in its upcoming Open Ears Forum (OEF) where developers and fans can talk about the next version of ...
Here's some of the best phone mounts to pick up for the PS5
The PS5 has been out for quite some time now, and while finding one can be difficult, those who own one can take advantage of something its predecessor also had: remote play. So whether you're too tired to sit up or want to lounge around in a different room while playing, the PS5 allows players to connect to the console and play from their phone remotely. Better yet, you can even connect your DualSense controller to your phone, making it much easier to play. But, of course, propping your phone up to play can be a bit of a hassle, so we've collected some of the best PS5 controller phone mounts available right now.A tight holdOrzly PS5 Controller Mobile Gaming ClipStaff PickOrzly's DualSense controller phone mount promises a secure hold, and thanks to its padded phone grip, it's likely to back those promises up. Not only does it feature a tighter grip on your phone, but it also has easily accessible control options for adjusting the viewing angle of your phone. The mount al...
Android 13 will make switching between profiles on the lock screen a breeze
Your lock screen is about to become more useful in the next version of Android.What you need to knowGoogle will make it easier to switch between multiple profiles on the lock screen in Android 13.This feature is under development, and it is likely to make its way to smartphones and tablets.Android 13 will also allow users to install apps while setting up their guest profile without compromising privacy.A few days ago, Google unveiled the first developer preview of Android 13, the next version of its mobile operating system that zeroes in on privacy and security. That's nowhere more evident than in the features promised by the upcoming Android version, including one that makes it a lot easier to switch between user profiles even before unlocking the screen.According to Esper, an Android development platform, the next version of the OS will include a keyguard profile switcher, which will allow multiple users to log in to a device directly from the lock screen (via XDA Devel...
How to get rebates from your power company with a smart thermostat
Smart thermostats are a great way to save money, especially as the price of electricity continues to go up in many places. Not only that but using power more efficiently is one of the best ways most people can help reduce dependence on environmentally-destructive energy production methods like coal and gas. Smart thermostats can help heat and cool your home more efficiently by reducing usage when you're away from home and recommending more efficient settings. You can also save some money with rebates or rewards from your power company.Check with your energy providerSome energy companies and co-ops offer rebates for buying a smart thermostat or even offer them for free. Before you click buy on a smart thermostat, it's worth it to give your energy company a call to see if there are any promotions available.You can also check online to see if your provider has listed any deals. You can check on Amazon for rebates with your zip code before buying an Amazon Smart Thermostat. Google ...
Here's why Samsung launched the Galaxy S22 with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in India
Galaxy S22 buyers in India will get Qualcomm's latest chipset instead of the Exynos 2200.It's official: the Galaxy S22 series will be powered by Qualcomm's latest 4nm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in India. A few leaks hinted as much before the launch, and Samsung confirmed the same in a blog post.This is obviously a huge deal, because Samsung only launched Exynos variants of its phones in the country over the last seven years. The one instance where it deviated from the path was with the 5G variant of the Galaxy S20 FE, which offered the Snapdragon 865. Samsung initially launched the S20 FE sans 5G connectivity, with that model running the Exynos 990. But in March 2021, the Korean manufacturer rolled out the 5G model with Qualcomm's chipset, and that generated an additional wave of interest in the device.Samsung is the only Android manufacturer to use a dual-sourcing strategy for its flagships, and it continues to do so because the model has worked particularly well for the brand. It res...
UFC 271 live stream: watch Adesanya vs Whittaker PPV online
There's still plenty of time to watch a UFC 271 live stream tonight as the main card events have yet to start. We've got everything laid out for you to catch the Adesanya vs Whittaker PPV online as they compete for the Middleweight title.The main card Middleweight title bout between Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker is set to take place around 10pm ET / 7pm PT / 3am GMT. As UFC 271 is a PPV event in the US, you may as well check out the earlier fights on the card too. The early prelim fights began at 6pm ET / 3pm PT / 11pm GMT. We'll tell you how to watch UFC 271 online in the US first, but we also have local options for the UK, Europe, and Australia further down the page. US links for the UFC PPV prices on ESPN+ are directly below if you just want to get straight to it.UFC 271 on ESPN+ | $99.98 (new subscribers)UFC 271 on ESPN+ | $74.98 (existing subscribers)The main event sees Israel Adesanya aiming to defend his Middleweight title for the fourth time. While undefeated ...
These are currently the best co-op games you can play on PS4 and PS5
Gather some friends around the TV and fire up that PS4 or PS5 — these are the best social and co-op games for the consoles.Sometimes you don't want to play a game by yourself; sometimes you want to have a good time with a friend. For the purposes of this list, we stuck to games that don't typically fall under the category of competitive multiplayer shooters like Call of Duty, Battlefield, Rainbow Six Siege, and more. The games below give a great cooperative experience without the threat of random strangers mowing you down and possibly ruining the fun. Of course, these are also playable on PS5 through backward compatibility or specific PS5 versions.Best co-op games for PS4 and PS5:Borderlands 3It Takes TwoA Way OutThe Division 2: Warlords of New York EditionMinecraftLEGO DC Super-VillainsOvercooked: All You Can EatTowerFall AscensionDon't Starve TogetherUnravel TwoKeep Talking and Nobody ExplodesNidhogg 2Human: Fall FlatGuacamelee! One-Two Punch CollectionRaym...
Secure your Ring account by enabling two-factor authentication
Smart doorbells and cameras are a great way to add a sense of security to your home and keep an extra eye on things, even when you're away. But when accessed by the wrong person, cameras and doorbells can also be deeply troubling. You've probably read articles about online intruders hacking into people's connected cameras and even using the two-way audio to terrorize residents on the other end. Far too often, the "hacker" simply takes advantage of a weak password. As a result, Ring began requiring users to enable two-factor authentication from February 2020 onward. So let's not delay any further. We'll show you how to enable two-factor authentication on your Ring account to fully secure your devices.How to enable 2FA from your phoneTwo-factor authentication is an absolute must these days, especially with something as private as a live camera feed. Enabling it from the Ring app on your phone just takes a few simple steps. There are two methods offered by the Ring app for authentic...
What color Galaxy S22 will you choose?
The burgundy Galaxy S22 Ultra is nice, but that green ...The Galaxy S22 series is here, and while Samsung's latest flagships may not be for everyone, the company will undoubtedly well plenty of them. Each year we get a different set of colorways, and that's no different with the S22 series.Across the models, Samsung has included Phantom Black, White, and a nice dark green colorway that appears quite striking no matter which way you look at it. However, the differences lie in the fourth color option, with the Galaxy S22 and S22+ receiving a Pink Gold model, whereas the Galaxy S22 Ultra has an elegant burgundy. Not to mention, the S Pen also has a lovely two-tone design that matches the phone nicely.With that in mind, we want to know which Galaxy S22 color you find most appealing, regardless of if you plan to buy one or not.Poll: What color Galaxy S22 are you most interested in?Aside from the standard colorways that you can find at many carriers (depending on the region, o...
Here are the best shows on Peacock right now
These are the best shows on NBC's Peacock streaming service right now.NBC's Peacock streaming service is the digital hub for new and old NBC series, Peacock originals, and various content from other networks. And with both a free tier and two premium plan options, there's lots of content to choose from. With that in mind, we've rounded up the best Peacock shows available right now.PeacockFind your NBC favorites and moreFrom $5/mo. at PeacockAll the shows, movies, and sports you wantNBC's Peacock streaming service is the exclusive home for iconic NBC series like The Office and shows from a collection of other networks. You can also find a rotating lineup of free and premium movies.Best Peacock showsOriginal series on PeacockJust added on PeacockWWE on PeacockTrue crime on PeacockDrama series on PeacockPeacock OriginalsIn addition to featuring a variety of classic series and shows that are currently airing new episodes on TV, Peacock features a lineu...
Expand your experience with the best Galaxy S22 accessories
Congrats on your new Samsung Galaxy S22! Your wonderful new flagship is powerful, pretty, and...delicate. Sure, IP68 water resistance is great, but this is still a slab of glass and aluminum wrapped around the fancy new Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and those wonderful, wonderful cameras. You need to protect it with a wonderful Galaxy S22 case, but while you're at it, there are a few key ways to elevate your Galaxy experience.The new signature lookGalaxy S22 Series Silicone Cover with StrapThis strappy case is looking like the one to beat for the Galaxy S22, as Samsung will be working with big-name brands like Disney to create fun swappable straps. The strap is also functional and serves as a phone grip.$40 at Samsung (S22) $40 at Samsung (S22+) $40 at Samsung (S22 Ultra)Strong, yet stylishPoetic NeonThis heavy-duty case uses a flexible, impact-absorbent inner sleeve, while a hard outer shell offers a firm grip and stability. Both the S22 and S22+ have eight colorway...
The camera you have, might just be the best camera
I just want it to work. You probably do, too.The new Samsung Galaxy S22 will, as usual, be the phone to beat in 2022. Spoiler: most phones aren't going to beat it in any meaningful way, and in the west, it will sell in numbers that only Apple can beat. That's the nature of the Samsung ecosystem beast, my friends.Sadly one of those things that all other phone makers will chase is a camera that can do a million things well but forgets to do the most important thing great. Yes, the camera you have with you is always the best camera, but most of us want to be able to whip it out and grab a great picture without any buttons or settings or modes or other assorted bleeps and bloops. The S22 camera might be great at the basics, but Samsung didn't bother to show us.The sad part is that the camera on the S22 might be great at doing that, but unless you have early access to a review unit, you don't know for sure because Samsung didn't bother to mention it. If this is what's most impo...
Google Voice makes calls between European countries cheaper
Calls from European Google Voice numbers are now part of your license.What you need to knowGoogle announced a new change to Voice calls made to mobile and landline numbers in Europe.Calls from Google Voice to many European numbers are now included in your licenses.Domestic and international rates were previously applied to these calls.Google has a sweet offer for Voice customers who frequently call landline and mobile phone numbers in Europe. Connecting to someone in European countries via Google Voice numbers is now less expensive.The search giant announced that your Voice licenses now cover calls between many European numbers. The latest change took effect on February 8, which means domestic and international rates no longer apply to these calls."This change will reduce the cost of staying connected with your colleagues, partners, and customers distributed in Europe," the company said in a blog post.This feature is available for all users with European phone numbers...
Samsung pauses Galaxy Tab S8 and S8 Ultra preorders due to high demand
The Galaxy Tab S8+ is still available for preorder, but that may change soon.What you need to knowSamsung has put the Galaxy Tab S8 and Tab S8 Ultra preorders on hold.The move was motivated by "overwhelming demand," according to the company.Despite this, you can still preorder the tablets from other online retailers such as Best Buy.The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 series is easily the best Android tablets on the market, but you might be out of luck if you're trying to preorder the tablets right now. Samsung has paused preorders for the vanilla and Ultra models on its online storefront due to an "overwhelming demand."As spotted by XDA Developers, both the regular Galaxy Tab S8 and Tab S8 Ultra are marked as sold out on Samsung's website just two days after the products' announcement. Here's what a company representative had to say regarding the device's status: We are thrilled by the consumer response to our new Galaxy Tab S8 lineup. Due to the overwhelming demand in the las...
Google Assistant's Guest Mode is expanding to nine more languages
Google also introduced other online safety features in observance of Safer Internet Day.What you need to knowGoogle announced new updates and expansions to its existing online safety features.Guest Mode on Google Assistant will be available in nine additional languages in the coming months.The Google Fi app will soon allow you to share your location with friends and family members for free.Beginning next month, you'll be able to turn on Google's account-level enhanced safe browsing.Last year, Google unveiled an incognito-style feature for Google Assistant called Guest Mode, which prevents your interactions on Nest speakers and displays from being saved. The feature was initially available on a few languages, but that's changing soon.Google announced this week that Guest Mode is coming to nine more languages over the coming months. It's adding support for Danish, Indonesian, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Brazil), Swedish, Thai, Mandarin (Taiwan), and Hindi (via 9to5Google...
Expand your experience with the best Galaxy S22 accessories
Congrats on your new Samsung Galaxy S22! Your wonderful new flagship is powerful, pretty, and...delicate. Sure, IP68 water resistance is great, but this is still a slab of glass and aluminum wrapped around the fancy new Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and those wonderful, wonderful cameras. You need to protect it with a wonderful Galaxy S22 case, but while you're at it, there are a few key ways to elevate your Galaxy experience.The new signature lookGalaxy S22 Series Silicone Cover with StrapThis strappy case is looking like the one to beat for the Galaxy S22, as Samsung will be working with big-name brands like Disney to create fun swappable straps. The strap is also functional and serves as a phone grip.$40 at Samsung (S22) $40 at Samsung (S22+) $40 at Samsung (S22 Ultra)Strong, yet stylishPoetic NeonThis heavy-duty case uses a flexible, impact-absorbent inner sleeve, while a hard outer shell offers a firm grip and stability. Both the S22 and S22+ have eight colorway...
Tinder wants to make blind dates cool again in time for Valentine's Day
For all you lonely souls out there.What you need to knowTinder launches its latest feature dubbed Fast Chat: Blind Date.The app will match people based on commonalities and put them in a timed chat.They can decide to "like" the person or move on to another match.Fast Chat: Blind Date is available now in the U.S. and will arrive globally soon.Are you looking for a last-minute Valentine's date? Tinder wants to give you a shot by launching a new feature on the dating app — Fast Chat: Blind Date.The name is pretty self-explanatory, as it's Tinder's way to make blind dates cool again.The feature works by having users answer questions about themselves, after which it will pair them with someone with who they have things in common. After they're paired up, they will enter a timed chat, although neither person can see each other's profiles; they will only be able to view their answers to certain multiple-choice questions.Once the chat is over, each participant will have th...
'Killed by Google' strikes again as Currents app will merge into Spaces
After replacing Google+, Currents will disappear into Google's Slack competitor app.What you need to knowGoogle is "planning to wind down Google Currents," an enterprise app meant to allow coworkers to share ideas and information with one another.Google will import Currents into Google Spaces, a workroom app that syncs with your Google Workspace apps, by 2023.Currents only left beta in mid-2020, making it particularly short-lived.Google loves to throw apps at the wall, see what sticks, then scrape up the failures and throw them onto the successes as a garnish. It's taken that approach with its messaging apps, reader apps, and productivity apps, among others. On Thursday, Google announced that Google Currents would be the latest tool to get frankensteined onto another service.Currents, originally the branding for a social magazine app replaced by Google Play Newsstand in 2013, later became a G Suite app where users could "have meaningful discussions and interactions" by sh...
Google's Privacy Sandbox commitments approved by UK regulators
Google clears a major regulatory hurdle.What you need to knowThe UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has accepted Google's Privacy Sandbox commitments.The CMA opened its investigation into the proposal in early 2021.Google will consult with the CMA on a regular basis to ensure it's compliant.Following an investigation by the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), Google has announced on Friday that the regulatory body has approved its controversial Privacy Sandbox commitments.The approval will ensure that Google's work into Privacy Sandbox will remain fair and not harm competition. Google says that its proposal to replace third-party cookies "will apply in the same way to Google's advertising products as to products from other companies."Additionally, Google will work with the CMA and Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) for regulatory oversight and input as it develops the initiative to ensure that it's compliant and will wait to implement any change...
Among the best Android phones, the Galaxy S20 FE needs the best case
No matter which smartphone you buy these days, it's essential to get a case for it, and Samsung Galaxy S20 FE is no exception. The Galaxy S20 FE offers everything — from powerful hardware to great cameras — at a very attractive price. Moreover, it's a smartphone that'll easily last you years, provided you get one of these best Galaxy S20 FE cases to give it the protection it deserves. And while you're at it, you may also want to check some of the best Galaxy S20 FE screen protectors to shield that 6.5-inch Super AMOLED screen from all kinds of damage.Funky 3D effectsCaseology Parallax SeriesStaff PickThe Caseology Parallax is one of those cases that have become a favorite for many. The unique 3D design on its back improves grip and ergonomics, while the rest of the case gives you the protection you need. Caseology also ensures this case can be used with many of the best Galaxy S20 FE screen protectors while still maintaining support for wireless charging.From $16 at...
Here's how to send a Chrome tab from one device to another
Google makes it easy to send a Google Chrome tab from one device to another via a handful of different methods. To share tabs in Chrome, you will need Chrome 77 or later on your devices, a synced Google account that you're signed in to, and open tabs you want to share. Once you've sorted out those requirements, these are the steps you need to take to send a Google Chrome tab from a desktop to an Android device.Chrome tab sharing via QR CodeOne of the easiest ways to share a Chrome tab between devices is by creating a QR Code for the tab you want to send. Here's how to do that.Navigate to the webpage you want to send. In the address bar at the top of the page, click the Share icon and select QR Code. The QR Code will be generated and displayed at the top-right of your browser.On your Android device, tap the three-dots button at the top right of your screen.Select the Share button and select QR Code.When the QR code is displayed under the Share tab, tap Scan and point t...
Everything we know so far about Gran Turismo 7
One of Sony's biggest franchises will indeed be making a full return on PS5. Here's what we know so far.Gran Turismo has been one of Sony's biggest franchises since the days of the very first PlayStation. The tagline, "the real driving simulator," has always cut straight to the core of what Gran Turismo is all about, and generally speaking, has received much praise over the years.But it's also hard to believe that the PS4 has gone by entirely without a new, full Gran Turismo game. Gran Turismo 6 launched on the PS3, and while PS4 owners have at least had GT Sport, it's fair to say the reaction has been mixed at times, and it's not quite the same as a full sequel.That's what we seem to be getting on the PS5 and PS4 this year. Here's everything we know about Gran Turismo 7.Jump to:When does it release?Resolution and frame rateWill it support PSVR?What circuits will be present?What cars will it include?What are its features?Will it be on PS4?Gran Turismo esports and ...
After the Fall will add Horde mode and new maps with Frontrunner Season
More enemies and weapons to shoot them with coming too.What you need to knowAfter the Fall is a virtual reality shooter with four-player co-op and competitive multiplayer for Quest 2, PlayStation VR, and VR on PC.The game will receive a new Horde mode with the Frontrunner Season alongside new maps, enemies, and weapons in mid-February.After the Fall will get a physical PS VR release called the Frontrunner Edition in March.Virtual reality zombie shooter After the Fall will be receiving new content with more modes, maps, enemies and weapons with the upcoming Frontrunner Season starting sometime this month.After the Fall developer Vertigo Games revealed today almost all of what will be coming in the game's first season of content. The season will kick off by adding a new Horde mode, where up to four players defend a contained area against multiple lanes of Snowbreed enemies and survive as long as possible.The Horde mode can be played on two new maps coming with the season,...
Check out some of the best Samsung Galaxy 10 cases you can buy
Like most of Samsung's top-tier smartphones, the Galaxy S10 has aged quite well. So even if you buy one (new or refurbished) today, the 2019 flagship will most likely serve you well for the next year or two, provided you get one of the best Galaxy S10 cases to protect its gorgeous glass and aluminum body from getting damaged. And while you're at it, we also suggest taking a look at the best Galaxy S10 screen protectors, as they'll help keep the phone's 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen safe.Reliable everyday protectionSpigen Tough Armor caseStaff PickFeaturing a dual-layer construction, Spigen's Tough Armor case comes with a soft TPU shell and a hard polycarbonate exterior. It uses "Air Cushion" technology and conforms to the MIL-STD-810G standard, giving your Galaxy S10 maximum protection from hard falls and damage.From $16 at AmazonSlim yet durableOtterbox Commuter Series caseOtterbox's Commuter Series case sports a sleek yet rugged design that allows it to s...
Hone your dungeon keeping with the best RPGs for Android!
Get lost in these big worlds on a small screen.Role-playing games are wonderful, story-driven experiences that complement the mobile gaming experience nicely. Despite the relatively tiny mobile screens we're used to (yes, 5.7 inches is still small by gaming standards), RPGs allow us to get lost in fanciful worlds for a while. In the case of some games, especially those ported over from PC, that "while" could be 20, 30 hours, or even more! This makes the best RPGs worth their price in the Google Play Store.Unfortunately, like most game genres, there are some mobile duds. We've hand-picked the best of the best to save you the trouble of digging.If you're looking for more than just RPGs, be sure to check out our roundup of the best Android games out there!The gamesAdventures of ManaAnimAAnother Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and SpaceArcane Quest 3Baldur's Gate and Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of AmnThe Banner SagaBattle Chasers: Nightwar Chrono TriggerCrashlands Eternium...
Massive Twitter outage ends after about 90 minutes
Nearly 50,000 Twitter users and counting complained that their app or web version was down.Update, Feb 11 (10:30 a.m. ET): Twitter's issue has been fixed.What you need to knowTwitter experienced a widespread outage as of 9 A.M. PT on Friday.Downdetector is also reporting spikes in outages for other sites and services like AWS and Facebook, though at a much smaller scale.We've confirmed the outage took place across the U.S. and in the UK.Is Twitter down for you? You're not alone. Starting at 12 ET on Friday, February 11, both the Twitter website and app have crashed for a large number of users. As of publication, Downdetector lists over 45,000 users who report an issue with the service.About 50% of the complaints refer to the Twitter web version and 40% to the app. Some of our staff have noticed the site is down for them, but that the Twitter app is still live.On a smaller but still-significant scale, a spike of 500 users report a recent AWS outage on Downdetector. F...
Not sure what two-factor authentication is? We're here to help
What 2FA is, why it's important, and why you should use it.You see a lot of talk on the internet about two-factor authentication (or 2FA as it's commonly called), and most of the time, you just see people like us telling you to use it.We'll continue that trend and start this guide by telling you to use 2FA whenever and wherever you can. However, we're also going to let you know what it is and why you must use it. Ready to learn more? Read on.Lock it downYubico Yubikey 5 NFC$45 at AmazonKeep your accounts extra safe with a physical 2FA keyEveryone should be using two-factor authentication (yes, you!), and one of the best ways to start is with the Yubico Security Key. This USB key fits in any USB-A port and securely saves 2FA login codes for your Google, Facebook, Dropbox, and other online accounts. It's also extremely durable and can be attached to a key ring for easy transportation.Jump to:Understanding two-factor authenticationIt starts with your password...
Everything you need to know about Genshin Impact Update 2.5 is right here
Yae Miko is the new five-star Electro catalyst user, joining a growing roster of playable characters.Genshin Impact 2.4 may have just released a month ago, but miHoYo is already looking toward Update 2.5, never content to just let one of the best Android games sit idle. Inline with its regular update cadence, 2.5 arrives on Feb. 16. Though miHoYo is only adding one new playable character this time around — Yae Miko — there will be plenty of activities to do to keep players busy. Here's everything we know about Genshin Impact Update 2.5 so far.Genshin Impact Update 2.5: When the Sakura BloomUpdate 2.5 continues to focus on Inazuma, both above and below ground. MiHoYo notes that "darkness of unknown origins" is looming in Enkanomiya, and this is going to be a formidable threat to travelers. To help throughout the journey, players will be given a new item, the Bokuso Box, able to repel the darkness and its corrosive effects. Elsewhere, the Raiden Shogun's quest continues, ...
Menstrual wellness starts with the most spot-on period tracking apps
Keep track of your menstrual cycle with ease.Staying on top of your menses is not just essential for birth control or conception purposes. It also helps you catch unusual patterns and irregularities that may or may not be related to underlying conditions. The best period tracking apps allow you to track your cycle and provide useful, insightful information about your reproductive system. The greatest apps learn from the data collected and can aptly provide sound predictions based on records.If you want to take things a bit further, it helps that many of the best Android smartwatches and fitness trackers offer the same women's health features. So, for example, you can track your menstrual cycle on popular wearables from Samsung, Fitbit, and Garmin, and the data logs are stored on your phone, streamlining the entire tracking process.The Top 3 apps1. Period Calendar2. Glow3. ClueMore optionsFloMy CalendarPeriod TrackerMayaFitbitGarmin ConnectWhat are the bes...
Are you better off buying the Amazon Halo View or Fitbit Charge 5?
The whole packageFitbit Charge 5$120 at AmazonProsGPS, HRM, NFCActive Zone MinutesECG & EDA sensorsImproved designA week of battery lifeConsExpensive price tagNeed Fitbit Premium for some featuresIf you have a "go big or go home" mentality regarding your fitness tracking experience, you'll appreciate what the Fitbit Charge 5 brings to the table. It might as well be a tiny but mighty smartwatch with all its perks. You get onboard GPS, advanced health sensors, NFC payments, and more.Bits and piecesAmazon Halo View$65 at AmazonProsActivity/sleep trackingHeart rate and SpO2 monitoringCompact, lightweight designAffordable price tagA week of battery lifeConsNo GPS optionsBland designNeed Halo membership for most perksSome users prefer simplicity when buying a fitness tracker, and that's where the Amazon Halo View delivers. You'll have the basics such as activity/sleep tracking and heart-rate monitoring, but the Halo membership ...
These are the best Fitbit Inspire 2 bands
If you're buying the Fitbit Inspire 2 or already have one, you might be thinking about swapping out the band for something else that expresses your style or fits your activity. After all, there are tons of stylish options available, so why not have more than one look to change things up? Whichever style you choose, make sure it will provide maximum comfort. So we found some of the best Fitbit Inspire 2 bands for you to consider.Soft as can beWepro Silicone Fitbit Inspire 2 BandStaff PickThe Fitbit Inspire 2 bands from Wepro are made of flexible elastomer silicone that's lightweight, sweat-resistant, and easy to clean. You get three bands in a pack and can pick the colors that match your style. So whether you want to have a couple of extras or like to share with family and friends, there are enough bands to go around.From $7 at AmazonBreathe easyMaledan Fabric Inspire 2 BandPerhaps you'd prefer a fabric Inspire 2 band. This option from Maledan is soft and bre...
Grab one of these co-op games for your PS4 to play with your Valentine
Valentine's Day isn't just about getting that perfect gift for your sweet crush or significant other — it's also about spending some real quality time. More and more, gamer couples are choosing to do just that by playing co-op games. It makes for the perfect date night, with most requiring teamwork and communication for success. It'll bring you two closer, and you'll have loads of fun. Need some ideas? These PlayStation 4 Valentine's Day video games are great places to start.Jump to:Lovers in a Dangerous SpacetimeOvercooked! 2Don't Starve Together Divinity: Original Sin 27 Days to Die Borderlands 3Call of Duty: WarzoneMinecraftLEGO Marvel Superheroes 2A Way OutHuman: Fall Flat It Takes Two Lovers in a Dangerous SpacetimeWhat better way to celebrate love than by fighting the forces of anti-love? Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime is one of the ultimate co-op games, forcing both players to rely on each other to succeed. Players navigate various levels in a sp...
Motorola's Galaxy S22 Ultra rival appears in new renders ahead of launch
Unlike the Galaxy S22 Ultra, the upcoming Edge 30 Pro won't include a silo for its "Smart Stylus."What you need to knowMore renders of the upcoming Motorola Edge 30 Pro have leaked.The latest renders give us our first look at the stylus and smart folio case for the flagship phone. It is expected to debut alongside the vanilla Edge 30 later this month. Last month, a leak had revealed that an upcoming Motorola flagship could come with a next-gen "Smart Stylus." The first render showing off the stylus has now surfaced, courtesy of veteran leaker Evan Blass.As you can see in the render above, the Motorola Edge 30 Pro will not include a dedicated slot to hold the stylus. Instead, Motorola will offer a stylus and folio case for the phone. In addition to the render showing off the case, Blass has also shared an official-looking render of the Motorola Edge 30 Pro. Previous leaks, however, had referred to the device as the Edge 30 Ultra.The Motorola "Smart Stylus" is rumored t...
Say NO to generic dating sims. Say YES to Florence—a love story on Android
For the love of love, please play Florence.It's that time of the year, folks. Some love it, some hate it, and others just wait for the candy to go on sale the day after. That's right, I'm talking about Valentine's Day. Say what you will about the corporate marketing machine, but Valentine's Day had me wondering what games I could russle up in the Play Store about love. Well, let me tell you, it is SLIM pickings out there.Between generic dating sims the likes of which make for the worst mobile game ads and ones that mimic real life dating apps too accurately, it's tough to find games that actually tackle love and relationships in a meaningful way. So let's all thank the heavens for Florence, the only Android game about love that's worth playing. This one gets an instant spot on ye olde list of best Android games.Designed by Ken Wong of Monument Valley fame and published by Annapurna Interactive (the same folks behind Donut County), Florence follows the life and growth of 25-...
These are our absolute favorite Wi-Fi routers for 2022
Wi-Fi 6 has taken over as the primary standard for the best new Wi-Fi routers, but Wi-Fi 5 still has plenty of speed for many people. Commonly known as 802.11ac routers, Wi-Fi 5 routers can often be found for a much lower price than the best Wi-Fi 6 routers. However, if you're looking for the best bang for your buck in Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi 5 routers are still worth considering. The Netgear Nighthawk R6900P is one of the best Wi-Fi 5 routers with solid speeds and great software support.Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk AC1900 R6900PThe Netgear Nighthawk AC1900 spent years as one of the most recommended routers with reliable software, great support from Netgear, and plenty of performance for most homes. The R6900P model is the best of the AC1900 Nighthawks, with MU-MIMO support added in to handle even more devices without dropping out. The AC1900 connection breaks down to 600Mbps at 2.4GHZ and 1,300Mbps at 5GHz. The USB port is also now USB 3.0, so you can easily connect high-speed storage...
Here's how to set up the Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen)
Google's 2nd-generation Pixel Stand isn't cheap, and it doesn't charge your phone nearly as fast as proprietary systems like One Plus' Warp Charge Wireless. But it does have something to offer if you have a Pixel 6 — it allows your phone to do more than just sit there while it's charging. You will need to tap a few buttons and allow a few things to get the most from the Pixel Stand, but don't worry, it's really easy.How to set up your Pixel Stand (2nd Gen)Plug the stand into the wall using the included cable and charging block.Place your Pixel on the stand, and you should be prompted to start the setup process. If not, open the settings and look in connected devices for Google Pixel Stand.Tap the button that says Next on the screen that appears.If you have smart devices connected to Google Assistant, you can control them from the display while the phone is charging. To get started, choose Turn on from the next screen.Choose the devices you want to be shown. You can choose ...
Horizon Zero Dawn has sold over 20 million copies so far
This is up from 10 million copies sold back in 2019.What you need to knowHorizon Zero Dawn first launched in 2017 on PS4.In 2020, a PC port was released as Sony began branching more into putting games on PC.Horizon Zero Dawn has reached 20 million copies sold across PS4 and PC. The sequel, Horizon Forbidden West, is slated to launch on Feb. 18, 2022. Guerrilla Games' Horizon Zero Dawn has sold over 20 million copies across PS4 and PC, PlayStation Studios head Hermen Huslt confirmed via Twitter on Friday.Horizon Zero Dawn first launched for PS4 in 2017, with a PC port arriving in 2020 as Sony has started to put more and more games on PC, including Days Gone and God of War. Previously, Horizon Zero Dawn hit 10 million copies sold on PS4 back in 2019, with no new milestones given in 2020 or 2021.This news comes as the sequel, Horizon Forbidden West, is almost here, as it is slated to launch for PS5 and PS4 on Feb. 18, 2022. Sony also released a new cinematic trailer for H...
Nothing ear (1) picks up Google Assistant support in a surprising move
Nothing previously ruled out the possibility of adding digital assistant support to the wireless earbuds.What you need to knowNothing has announced the rollout of digital assistant support to the ear (1) wireless earbuds.The latest firmware update brings support for Google Assistant, Siri and Alexa.You'll need to triple-tap the stem of either bud in order to summon the default voice assistant.Nothing ear (1) launched last year with a few missing features you would otherwise expect to see in a pair of wireless earbuds. For example, there was no support for any kind of digital assistant, and Nothing even told Android Central's Harish Jonnalagadda that it had no plans to add that feature.However, the company has now remedied that limitation. In a surprising move, Carl Pei's startup announced on Twitter that the three major voice assistants including Google Assistant, Siri and Alexa are now available on Nothing ear (1).Alexa, play "Nothing Else Matters"Yeah, it's time to sa...
The Galaxy S22 Ultra will always be the Note 22 to me
The Note is more than a single product now — but it's still a shame that the brand itself has to die.For the past ten years, the Galaxy Note brand has been synonymous with the very best smartphone hardware from Samsung. And, as the company has previously boasted, Note fans are among its most loyal customers. Case in point: in 2016, the Note brand survived one of the most disastrous product launches in history. The damage likely would've been terminal for a less prestigious product line. This year's "Ultra" is technically and visually distinct from the other S22s.Before Samsung complicated things by also releasing a plus-sized Galaxy S in the spring, the fall launch of the Note was an annual highlight for enthusiasts. It was the original "big screen" phone, back when people joked about big phones looking like "talking into a piece of toast." While the S-series sold in larger numbers, the Note would boast quicker performance, bigger batteries, superior cameras, expansive dis...
India’s smartphone shipments jumped 7% in 2021 despite the pandemic
Realme registered the highest growth amongst the top five smartphone vendors.What you need to knowIDC's latest worldwide quarterly mobile phone tracker has revealed that India shipped 161 million smartphones last year.Shipments were up 7% compared to the previous year, despite pandemic-related challenges. Xiaomi remained the No.1 smartphone vendor in the country, with a market share of 25.1%. Smartphone shipments in India jumped 7% in 2021 to reach 161 million units, according to the IDC's latest worldwide quarterly mobile phone tracker. The growth is quite impressive as the pandemic continued to create disruptions throughout the year.IDC expects the Indian smartphone market to remain flat YoY in the first quarter of 2022 due to low seasonal demand and the ongoing third wave of COVID-19. The research firm also noted that the share of the premium segment in the country doubled to 4% in 2021, growing by over 100% YoY. However, this growth was mainly driven by higher Apple...
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE or the OnePlus 9? We can help you decide.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FEMainstream choice$600 at AmazonProsStunning 120Hz AMOLED screenGorgeous design that's easy to hold and usePowerful internal hardwareVersatile camerasIP68 water resistance and 15W wireless chargingAndroid 12 with three version updatesConsNo MicroSD card slot Not a great valueThe Galaxy S21 FE continues Samsung's momentum in the value flagship category. The phone offers powerful hardware backed by great cameras, a modern design, and the latest version of Android out of the box. It doesn't miss out on the extras either, and while you're not getting an outstanding value right now, that will change soon.OnePlus 9Stellar alternative$600 at AmazonProsStriking design120Hz AMOLED is fantastic in daily useRobust internal hardwareHasselblad-tuned cameras are great65W fast charging with 15W wireless chargingWill get three Android version updatesConsWireless charging only in select marketsNo IP protectionThe OnePlus 9 laun...
A merger of Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa would be awesome
Minor tweaks to Google Assistant and Alexa by borrowing from each would make for a great service.Digital assistants have become a norm in our lives over the past few years, thanks to Google Assistant and Alexa. Even though both options can accomplish many of the same tasks, these voice assistants are quite different. I have primarily been a Google Assistant user in my smart speaker space. Still, I recently have started to incorporate more Amazon Alexa devices into my home since I reviewed the Echo Show 15. In this time, I have found ways I'd like to blend Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.Before I get into it, let me get this out of the way first — the things I'm about to list are admittedly minor, because Google Assistant and Alexa both work very well. Still, neither is perfect and both have plenty of flaws where the other excels. My goals in combining the two are areas I think each can improve the other as the services currently exist — not the perfect world versions. To h...
Find your lost Android phone using any of these methods
Worried about misplacing your Android phone or (worse yet) having it stolen? Ease your fears and set up a tracking system before your worst-case scenario strikes. You'll get the best results if your phone is connected to a Wi-Fi signal, but GPS and mobile networks will still manage to pinpoint a fairly accurate location. You must also have a Google account for virtually all of the tracking services available, whether they are built-in or downloaded.Jump to:Find your phone using GoogleFind your phone using a smart speakerFind your phone with third-party appsBlock your phone's IMEIHow to locate your phone using GoogleMost Android phones now come with Find My Device built right in. This service automatically tracks your phone's location, so if it ever goes missing, you can hop on your laptop or a friend's phone and find its last known location, ring your phone if it's nearby, or lock and/or erase your phone if you fear it has been stolen.The most important thing you c...
OnwardMobility’s 5G BlackBerry phone has reportedly been shelved
The phone was supposed to begin shipping last year.What you need to knowOnwardMobility's BlackBerry 5G phone may never see the light of day.The U.S. startup's license to use the BlackBerry brand name has apparently been canceled. The news is yet to be officially confirmed by OnwardMobility. In what can only be described as bad news for BlackBerry loyalists, CrackBerry founder Kevin Michaluk has claimed that OnwardMobility has pulled the plug on its BlackBerry 5G phone project. Michaluk wrote in a post on CrackBerry forums: The majority of new businesses fail, so don't think it's that shocking of a surprise. I'm sure the people involved set out with good intentions and put in some real effort to make things happen (don't think you would go through the effort and put your names on the line with a plan to fail), but obviously were not able to execute.While the post doesn't include details on what actually went wrong, a report from Android Police suggests OnwardMobility'...
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