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The next era of Android design will bring a mix of dynamic color implementations — as well as potentially dull-looking apps for Android 11 and below.Material You is one of the most prominent new features of Android 12 on Pixel phones, and a major part of that is the dynamic color feature. With dynamic color, the entire system UI — and many of the built-in apps — are decorated with a color scheme from the "Material" color palette based on your choice of wallpaper.Per recent reports, it also appears other manufacturers will be getting in on dynamic color. Recent code commits confirmed the feature will be heading to phones from major brands like Motorola, OnePlus, and Oppo.But based on what we've seen from early dynamic color implementations so far, it's likely we'll see plenty of variation in the feature's implementation across the Android ecosystem. What's more, as apps move towards adopting dynamic color, the countless phones running Android 11 and earlier could find upda...

Maybe you like to use WhatsApp for work because it's one of the best messaging apps out there. On the other hand, perhaps it's just a convenient (and free!) way to keep in touch with friends. Either way, you probably have some pretty important messages and media in there, and it'd be a shame if it all suddenly disappeared. That's why it's a great idea to back up your messages, photos, and videos. Here's how to do just that using Google Drive.Products used in this guideMessaging at its best: WhatsAppFlagship for less: OnePlus 7 ProHow to back up between Android and iPhoneIf you're planning on switching from Android to iPhone and want to take your WhatsApp messages with you, you're kind of out of luck.When you back up WhatsApp on your Android phone, you back up to Google Drive. The Android WhatsApp app uses Google Drive to back up and restore. The iOS app uses iCloud to do both of those.Even if you have the iOS Google Drive app, you still won't be able to restore your An...

Epic says Google rushed to "get the word out" regarding a potential security problem for users sideloading Fortnite.What you need to knowA legal filing by Epic Games has revealed that Google formed a "Fortnite Task Force" after the company sidestepped the Play Store.The task force apparently met daily in 2018. Epic has also claimed that the task force disregarded the security of users and tried to deter developers from launching their apps outside of the Play Store. Google created a task force after Epic Games launched Fortnite through Samsung's Galaxy Store and its own website in 2018, according to a new legal filing by the game developer (via Bloomberg). Citing internal Google documents, Epic Games has claimed that the task force, which was launched to cope with Fortnite sidestepping the Play Store, met daily in 2018.The filing also reveals that the task force "latched onto" a potential security issue for users sideloading the game on their phones. Even though Google's ...

Whether you use them for working out at the gym, listening to tunes at the coffee shop, or just for ambient noise while working around the house, headphones and earbuds are essential tools. Unfortunately, if you use them for too long without proper cleaning, they can turn into disgusting messes. To avoid catching nasty ear infections, here are a few helpful cleaning tips that'll make it quick and easy to keep your audio gear in tip-top shape.Products used in this guideANC beast: Bose QC35 IITruly wireless buds: Aukey Key Series EP-T18NCHow to clean your headphonesWhen it comes to cleaning headphones, you'll want to make sure you clean both the headphones themselves and, perhaps more importantly, the speaker pads covering them. Starting first with the outside of your headphones, here's what you'll want to do:Remove the earpads on both ends.Wipe down the exterior of the headphones with a cloth that's been dampened with soap and warm water.Dry everything off with paper...

You can now livestream your Stadia gameplay to YouTube in 4K resolution.What you need to knowStadia has added support for 4K streaming on YouTube at up to 60fps and in HDR.It's likely that the new resolution capping is determined by the game you're playing.The higher streaming resolution begins automatically, so there is no need for you to do anything.Stadia's direct YouTube streaming capability was launched last year, allowing players to stream from the Stadia web app directly to YouTube with no additional software requirements. Now, the feature has picked up a highly-requested upgrade.As per a Twitter user who goes by the name Nohinn, you can now stream your Stadia gameplay directly to YouTube in 4K resolution (via 9to5Google). The stream also supports up to 60 frames per second and HDR. Previously, the stream was limited to 1080p at 60 frames per second, regardless of whether the title supported higher resolution.This is direct streaming from earlier. pic.twitter.com...

The upcoming phones are tipped to boast a 125W fast charging speed next year.What you need to knowA new rumor claims some upcoming phones from OPPO, OnePlus, and Realme will offer 125W fast charging speeds.These smartphones are the OnePlus 10 Pro, Realme GT 2 Pro, OPPO Find X4 series, Oppo N series, and Reno 8 Pro.All these devices are expected to debut in 2022.It is no secret that a number of Chinese phone makers have been working on bumping up the charging speeds of their respective smartphone offerings. OPPO and Realme are among the companies that are betting big on super fast charging, and now a new tip points to 125W wired charging for a handful of their upcoming devices.Reliable tipster Mukul Sharma tweeted that the OnePlus 10 Pro, Realme GT 2 Pro, Oppo Find X4, Oppo N phone, and Reno 8 Pro will all have a 125W charging speed (via Android Authority). It's important to note that this is wired charging; there's no word on how fast their wireless charging will be.Rea...

The ability to install apps on Android TVs from the Play Store mobile app is rolling out to users via a server-side update.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out a new feature that makes it easier to find and install apps on Android TV devices.You no longer have to open the Play Store on their TV to install new apps. It is now possible to install apps on your Android TV directly from the Play Store on your phone. Google is finally making it easier to discover and install new apps on Android TV devices. Android TV users can now install an app on their device from the Google Play Store on their phone (via XDA Developers). Until now, users had to either open the Play Store on their Android TV or use the Play Store's web version to find and install apps.According to a post from Reddit user u/avigi, the feature has already been rolled out to some users. However, it could take a few weeks for the feature to become widely available on all the best Android TVs. It is also wor...

It's reportedly going to license its smartphone designs to partners.What you need to knowHuawei will reportedly license its future smartphone designs to third-party companies to sidestep the U.S. ban.The collaboration could allow the company to obtain smartphone components from suppliers without having to worry about legal issues.Huawei is reportedly in licensing talks with at least two companies.Amid an ongoing trade tension between China and the U.S., Huawei continues to be caught in the crossfire. The latest fallout that befell the Chinese company was the passage of a new law that would block its application for network equipment with the Federal Communications Commission.Now, Huawei may have found a way to circumvent the various trade sanctions it's currently facing. According to Bloomberg, the smartphone maker is currently in talks with third-party companies over a licensing agreement for its smartphone designs. The deal is expected to give Huawei access to critical ...

It's the latest feature to arrive on older Pixel phones after being previously exclusive to the Pixel 6.What you need to knowThe Live Translate feature is now available on older Google Pixel devices.You can get it to work by installing the Pixel 6 version of the Android System Intelligence on your phone.The app has been spotted working on a Pixel 4a, for example.Google doubled down on AI and machine learning with its custom-built Tensor chip, the processor that powers its latest flagship phones. For example, the Google Pixel 6 series boasts smarter calling features, Magic Eraser, and Live Translate.However, according to Mishaal Rahman, the latter appears to be no longer limited to the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. Live Translate appears to be functional on older Pixel phones such as the Pixel 4a. To enable the feature, you must sideload the Pixel 6 version of the Android System Intelligence app, available to download from APKMirror. Keep in mind that you must first upgrade your devi...

Looks very promising!What you need to knowA roadmap for the One UI 4 release was accidentally posted online.The roadmap shows a slew of Galaxy smartphones being updated in December and January.The Galaxy S21 series is already receiving the stable Android 12 build.Updates could go until August 2022, depending on the region.Samsung has just launched stable One UI 4 for the Galaxy S21 series, but for anyone wondering when their phone will get Android 12, a leaked roadmap shows Samsung's alleged plans for its rollout.Apparently, the timeline was erroneously posted on the Samsung Members app and shows the schedule for the Android 12 rollout on various devices through 2022. The schedule was translated from Korean, so it most likely only reflects the rollout in that region, but either way, it shows that Samsung is planning to bring the update to its best Android phones as soon as possible.One UI 4 (Android 12) Upgrade NoticeThis is a translation of the now-deleted official Ko...

The smartwatch's specs have also been leaked extensively.What you need to knowThe specs and renders of the rumored Moto Watch 100 have been leaked online.The new leak gives away the wearable's category as a budget smartwatch, but with a premium design.Its launch date remains a mystery for now, but mass production is rumored to have started this month.Last month, a leaked press release purportedly for the successor to the third-generation Moto 360 revealed yet another Moto-branded smartwatch. The Moto Watch 100 is the name of the upcoming smartwatch, and a new leak gives us our first detailed look at it.The new renders, courtesy of 91mobiles, show a circular display with two physical buttons on the right side. The watch body appears to have a matte finish, while the buttons appear to have a metallic finish. However, the Moto Watch 100 will not have a rotating bezel, unlike some of the best Android smartwatches, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, according to the r...

But Black Friday is the only time you can get it.What you need to knowThe new Roku LE is a $15 streaming stick for HD content.The device will be available exclusively at Walmart through Black Friday weekend.Roku LE will only be available "while supplies last."Roku is gearing up for Black Friday weekend by launching an-ultra affordable streaming player, the Roku LE.The new device undercuts many of the best streaming devices at only $15. For that price, you get the tried-and-true Roku remote and a sleek streaming box that gives you access to all your favorite apps and services (although YouTube support seems to be on its way out).The LE most likely stands for "limited edition" because the device will only be available at Walmart through Thanksgiving and Black Friday. And according to Roku, it will only be available "while supplies last," which is code for "get it before it's gone!"A Roku spokesperson confirmed with us that the device wouldn't be restocked once the suppl...

Chrome OS comes on two types of devices: laptops called Chromebooks and desktop machines called Chromeboxes. While the best Chromebooks are more widely known and more diverse in their options, Chromeboxes are a relatively small market where you have one option from each of the major manufacturers that gets updated every few years. 2021 is a good year to be a Chromebox user, as we're getting updates to the two most popular Chromeboxes on the market. While we may see another Chromebox or two come out in the second half of 2021, the ASUS Chromebox 4 is the one you'll want to buy for the extra ports and the extra power.Best overall: ASUS Chromebox 4ASUS makes some of the best Chromebooks for work, and it's never afraid to squeeze in every little feature and port it can to try and stand out in an increasingly competitive Chrome Enterprise space. This means that whether you're buying the business version or consumer-grade, we all benefit from ASUS's dedication to being the most power...

Best answer: The public preview for Project xCloud ended on Sept. 11, 2020. Now, cloud gaming has moved to beta status for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers while Microsoft spins up its resources to meet the incoming demand. However, if you're a Game Pass Ultimate subscriber, you can download the new Game Pass app from the Play Store, pair up a compatible controller, and get gaming!Full cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate listA Plague Tale: InnocenceArk: Survival EvolvedAstroneerBanjo-KazooieBanjo-TooieBanjo-Kazooie: Nuts and BoltsBack 4 BloodBatman: Arkham KnightBattlefield VBattletoadsBeholder Complete EditionBlack DesertBlair WitchBleeding EdgeBlinx: The Time SweeperBloodrootsBoyfriend DungeonBreathedgeBridge Constructor PortalBug Fables: The Everlasting SaplingCall of the SeaCarrionCartoCelesteChildren of MortaCities: Skylines - Xbox One EditionClusterTruckCode VeinConan ExilesControlCrackdown 3 (campaign)Cricket 19Crimson Skies: High ...

OnePlus goes flat with its redesigned Nord N20 5G.What you need to knowRenders of the OnePlus Nord N20 5G emerge, showing a new design.The smartphone features flat edges, a rear triple camera setup, and a hole-punch selfie camera.There is apparently a small chance the images are of the OnePlus CE successor.While the OnePlus 10 Pro has allegedly taken design inspiration from Samsung, it seems the OnePlus Nord N10 5G successor will go a different route, with design cues from the iPhone.New renders have emerged of the OnePlus Nord N20 5G, courtesy of Steve Hemmerstoffer aka Onleaks (via 91mobiles). The images show a device that looks strikingly similar to an iPhone 12, albeit sans the notch and square camera stove.Both the display and edges appear flat, a noticeable difference from the rounded edges and slight 2.5D curve on its predecessor. There's also a prominent chin at the bottom of the display. According to Onleaks, the device will be powered by Qualcomm's ne...

A big name in gaming's history gets an even bigger release.What you need to knowMedal of Honor: Above and Beyond is now available on Quest 2 for $40.The game features a 10+ hour single-player campaign, 12 multiplayer maps with five gameplay modes, as well as a wave-based Survival mode.The game requires 45GB of space, so you'll need to uninstall all games on a 64GB Quest 2 in order to install it.Respawn Entertainment has done the impossible and crammed the massive Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond onto the Quest 2, and it's now available on the Oculus Store for $40. The 10+ hour single-player campaign is backed up by a dozen multiplayer maps, complete with five game modes, as well as a wave-based Survival mode.Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond also includes The Gallery, an award-winning WW2 documentary series that features interviews and story retellings from actual WW2 vets. At the end of September, we learned that the game will take up a whopping 45GB on Quest 2. Wh...

Today's phones and tablets are more powerful than ever, but despite more power-efficient processors, it's not uncommon to find yourself needing to charge up at times when you aren't near a wall outlet with a portable charger or power bank. A high-capacity battery pack that is 20,000mAh and higher is ideal for people who need a lot of juice while on the go, and while they may not fit into your pocket, they're necessary for keeping your devices topped off. Our top pick is the RAVPower 90W Power Delivery Portable Charger. Here's why it's the best high-capacity power bank, along with other great alternatives if you need something even bigger.Best overall: RAVPower 90W Power Delivery Portable ChargerRAVPower has some of the best prices for power banks on the market, especially considering the high build quality and the 30,000mAh capacity of this model — and that's before you factor in sales, which happen at least once a month. Also included is a 5Amp-capable cable in the box so th...

Consoles are hot this holiday season, but you may have some trouble getting your hands one one.What you need to knowWe asked what kind of tech deals our readers are looking for on Black Friday.Most readers are looking to purchase a console for the holidays.Computers, tablets, and smartphones were close behind in the tech deals readers are after.There are less than two weeks before we hit Black Friday, but there are plenty of deals to be had in the days leading up to the event. With so much to consider, we wanted to know what our readers were most interested in buying this holiday season.Most responses were for consoles like the PS5 and Nintendo Switch OLED. With the launch of the Switch model, the handheld has seemingly risen back to the top, and it's likely to be a popular option for shoppers as Black Friday Switch deals ramp up. However, the PS5 continues to be in short supply, and things may not get any better on Black Friday.Fortunately, while we're keeping out for ...

What you need to knowThe Google Pixel foldable smartphone has been reportedly canceled.Google reportedly does not believe that it will perform well amid tough competition.The foldable was expected to launch sometime in 2022.Google has reportedly decided to drop its plans to launch the rumored Pixel Fold in 2022, according to a report from Ross Young of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC).As per the report, the device, which was slated to launch sometime in the first half of 2022, won't come to market as Google has reportedly canceled orders for parts.Bad news for those waiting for the Google Pixel Fold. We hear they have canceled parts orders and decided not to bring it to market as indicated in the latest DSCC Weekly Review. See blog excerpt at https://t.co/EVmWKcgi2c. @DisplaySupply pic.twitter.com/2P5lFW09Pt— Ross Young (@DSCCRoss) November 15, 2021According to DSCC's sources, Google apparently did not think that the device would be compelling enough to compe...

Jump to Black Friday Samsung Galaxy deals:SmartphonesWearablesTabletsChromebooksEarbudsIt has been a banner year for Samsung, between the camera prowess of the Galaxy S21 Ultra, the more polished foldable experience on the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3, and the launch of the first smartwatch with Wear OS 3, the Galaxy Watch 4. So whether you're looking for new earbuds or a great deal on one of the best Android phones, Black Friday always brings tremendous deals to every segment, and we're here to help you find the best one for you and your family members.While supply issues might make some smartphone deals more elusive than in previous years, there are a few perennial deals and plenty of bundles hoping to sweeten the pot this Black Friday. Tablets are another area we expect Samsung to offer bountiful discounts in, and Galaxy earbuds will drop from good prices down to "what the heck are you waiting for" territory before the turkey leftovers are demolished.Where to find ...

Fitness trackers are some of the best gifts to pick on Black Friday for anyone working towards a healthier lifestyle. Because not only will you be helping someone achieve their wellness goals, but you get to save some cash! There are a lot of excellent fitness trackers, and there are sure to be plenty of deals to go around this year. Don't worry; we're going to make sure you get the best Black Friday fitness tracker deals all season long.Jump to Black Friday Category dealsFitbit dealsGarmin dealsAmazfit dealsXiaomi dealsMore optionsEven though there are some pretty great Android smartwatches out there, with their own Black Friday deals, fitness trackers have earned their place on many wrists over the years. From longer battery life to their lightweight design, there are plenty of reasons to pick up a fitness tracker over a smartwatch in 2021.One of the most popular brands in the fitness tracker space is Fitbit, and it has dropped two new products in 2021 — the nea...

The upcoming Galaxy A33 will have a U-shaped notch, just like the 4G version of the Galaxy A32.What you need to knowAlleged renders of the Samsung Galaxy A33 5G have leaked.The renders reveal an Infinity-U display and a quad-camera setup on the back. They also suggest the phone will not include a headphone jack. The first CAD-based renders of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy A53 5G surfaced online last week, revealing a familiar design. Reliable leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer (@OnLeaks) has now partnered with 91Mobiles to publish CAD renders of the Galaxy A33 5G. The leaked renders reveal a flat display with a U-shaped notch at the top for the selfie camera. On the back of the phone will be a quad-camera setup, similar to the one on the Galaxy A53 5G. Disappointingly, the renders also suggest the Galaxy A32 successor will not have a 3.5mm headphone jack. The move doesn't come as a surprise, however, since none of Samsung's best Android phones include the analog port.The G...

Christmas decorations are going up and Chromebook prices are going down, which can only mean one thing: Black Friday is almost here! While last year's Chromebook shortage didn't give us quite as many deals as we'd like, this year, you can already get hundreds off many of the best Chromebooks around. There are tons of choices to consider such as the bright and beautiful Acer Chromebook Spin 713 (both generations are on sale), to the compact and kid-friendly Lenovo Flex 3 and Flex 5. There's a Chromebook deal for everyone this Black Friday, and we're here to help you find the best one for you or your little munchkins.Jump to Black Friday Chromebook deals:AcerASUSHPLenovoPremiumStudentWhere to find the best Black Friday Chromebook dealsChromebook deals are found everywhere, from retail giants like Amazon and Best Buy to your local electronic stores and mega-marts (I miss you, HEB), but they come more reliably from a few outlets. The stores below are known for their ...

We've seen some fantastic Chromebook deals already this year including a Chromebook with a 2K touchscreen down to $279, but alas, even that cost is too high for many budgets. If you need to outfit multiple kids with their own Chromebooks — or just need a lightweight laptop for yourself, the Samsung Chromebook has a price you'll like.Powered by the same Intel Celeron N4000 that powers most student Chromebooks, this 11.6-inch Chromebook should last a full school day, 4GB of RAM, and Samsung's minimal design. It won't get mistaken for a Galaxy Chromebook in any shape or form, but it's easier on the eyes than most budget Chromebooks.It also charges over USB-C Power Delivery rather than an old-school barrel plus charger, meaning replacement chargers are plentiful, affordable, and in a pinch, you can charge your kid's Chromebook with the same PD charger your Mac or recent Windows laptop does. Google guarantees Chrome OS updates for the Chromebook until June 2026, at which point your ch...

The true heir to the Note throne now comes in a more useful form factor.For its third generation of foldables, Samsung seemingly didn't hold anything back. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is Samsung's top-tier foldable phone, featuring more RAM, more storage, an upgraded outer screen, bigger (and more) screens, better cameras, new screen protectors, and support for the fabled S Pen. It may still have the same physical camera hardware as last year's Galaxy Z Fold 2, but software improvements make it a much better camera than the specs suggest.Despite the importance placed on quality-of-life features like the addition of water resistance — something consumers have come to take for granted in Android phones — the real revolutionary feature lies in the Z Fold 3's compatibility with the S Pen. As the unofficial replacement for the Galaxy Note series in 2021, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 form factor achieves a goal no Note phone has ever been able to: the feeling of writing in a digital notebook.Desp...

Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year, is fast approaching, and it's expected that some of the most widely discounted products during this time are going to be smart home gadgets. One of the greatest things about all these sales is that it doesn't matter if you're looking for some of the best Alexa devices, awesome Google Home-related tech, or even more futuristic smart lights to build out the smart home of your dreams — it's all going to be on sale. We'll keep an eye out for the best Black Friday smart home deals as the season progresses and update this list accordingly, so be sure to check back for the latest.Jump to Black Friday Smart Home dealsNest Hub dealsAmazon Echo dealsSmart light dealsSmart plug dealsSmart Speaker dealsRobot vacuum dealsHome security dealsWi-Fi router dealsBlack Friday is a fantastic time to pick up smart home devices. So whether you're just getting started and need an excellent smart speaker to manage your devices, like a ...

Unlike its predecessor, the OnePlus 10 Pro may come with a triple-camera setup at the rear.What you need to knowMore detailed renders of the OnePlus 10 Pro have appeared.The new renders apparently give us a look at the "likely final version" of the OnePlus 10 Pro. It is expected to go on sale globally sometime in the first half of 2022. After giving us a "first look" at the OnePlus 10 Pro last week, Onleaks and Zouton have teamed up once again to publish more renders and a 360-degree video showcasing the "likely final version" of the upcoming OnePlus flagship.The renders suggest the OnePlus 10 Pro will look fairly similar to the OnePlus 9 Pro from the front. It will have a curved screen with a single hole-punch cutout in the top-left corner. On the back of the phone will be a large rectangular camera bump housing a total of three sensors. The phone also appears to have a rounded bottom and a flat top. While the phone's right side has an alert slider and the power b...

PS5 stock is selling out fast, so be sure to have your credit card ready.Looking to buy a PS5? Well, so are millions of other people. It doesn't help that stock levels remain really tight, even nearly a year after its launch. Every time a retailer puts stock up for sale, it sells out super quickly. The longest we here at Android Central have seen PS5s stay in stock is between 15 to 20 minutes (often just a few minutes, though). That's also at random times, so finding a PS5 is a truly challenging task. Sony warned it will be hard to find stock throughout the year and well into 2022, but retailers promise more are coming and that Sony has secured additional semiconductor chips to make them.In our PS5 review, we called the system a technical marvel with a groundbreaking controller. And after spending a few months with the PS5, it's nearly impossible to go back to the PS4. Everything about the PS5 is better, from the games to the DualSense haptic feedback. So you'll want to experienc...

Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)Goldilocks zone$130 at AmazonProsGreat compromise sizeMuch improved cameraPhysical cover/off switch for microphones and cameraSimilar specs to the larger and more expensive Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen)ConsNo Dolby processingNeed a stand to adjust viewing anglesThe Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) has the same 13MP camera and privacy controls as the larger and more expensive Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) but costs nearly half as much. A better camera, better display resolution, and better speakers make this an excellent buy over the smaller Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen).Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen)Bedside buddy$85 at AmazonProsCompact design to fit anywherePhysical cover/off switch for microphones and cameraImproved camera over first generationConsAuto-brightness isn't well tunedIf all you want is an Echo with a clock, the Dot with Clock is almost half the priceThe Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) is an incremental update over the first-generation speaker, br...

Best answer: Smart light switches without a neutral wire are rare, but there are several brands catering to your needs. Lutron Caseta is a personal favorite, though it requires a second bridge or hub to get them "active" on your smart home network. A C by GE switch works without a neutral wire or hub, making it the most affordable option.Smart switches never sleepMany homes were wired before the National Electric Code required every light switch junction box have a neutral wire. If you own such a home, many of the best smart switches won't work for you. Every smart switch needs a neutral wire attached because they need to stay powered all the time.Without a neutral wire, there is a single circuit between the bulb, power source (or junction box), and light switch. If you switch off the lights, the electric current is broken because no power is passing through the bulb. That's why you typically need a neutral wire, which directly connects the power source to the switch: If you tu...

Black Friday is a time for miracle-level Chromebook deals for every price level, and there's nothing sweeter than seeing a Premium Chromebook down to a budget Chromebook price. The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is down to $279 from $529, almost half off and an absolute steal considering the screen quality, solid build, and the seven years of Chrome OS updates ahead of it.Since launching last summer, the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 sits at the number two spot in Best Chromebooks as an upgrade pick and the best premium Chromebook. The best overall Lenovo Flex 5's lower price tag helps it appeal to the masses that won't pay $500 or $700 for a Chromebook no matter what, but this deal at Best Buy puts the Spin 713 well under the Flex 5's price point while sports a much better screen, a beefier processor, and more ports.If you want to try out a Chromebook but are turned off by lackluster screens or cheap build quality, this is your chance to buy a high-end Chromebook for a low-end price. Best bu...

Turn your LED flash into a countdown timer on older Pixel phones.What you need to knowGoogle Camera has received an update that allows some Pixel 6 camera features to be used on older Pixel phones.These features include timer light, manual exposure controls, and a swipe gesture to quickly access the settings.The update is not yet widely available, but it can be sideloaded on the Pixel 5 and 4a.Google has started rolling out an udpate to the Google Camera app that should make your older Pixel phones feel a little like the Pixel 6 series, at least when using the camera. The latest version of the Camera app now includes the timer light, optional exposure controls, and an easy settings shortcut, as per 9to5Google.Perhaps one of the most notable changes with Google Camera version 8.4 is the addition of timer light to the Pixel 5 and 4a. Previously exclusive on Google's best Android phones this year, the feature turns the LED flash in your rear camera into an indicator when the...

Google Assistant appears to be "misinterpreting" call commands on Pixel phones even in quiet environments.Update, Nov 15 (09:15 ET): Google says the issue has been resolvedWhat you need to knowGoogle's Pixel 6 series phones appear to have a weird bug.Some Pixel 6 and 6 Pro owners have noticed that their phones are ghost dialing random contacts. Google hasn't acknowledged the bug yet. The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro are two of the best Android phones that Google has launched so far. Both phones pack impressive specs and offer great value too. Like previous Pixel phones, however, they aren't completely free from issues.Some Pixel 6 series owners have taken to Reddit to report a weird bug related to the Google Assistant (via Android Authority). According to some owners, the Pixel 6 series phones ghost dial random contacts even when they aren't anywhere near the phones.The issue has been reported on the Pixel Phone Help page as well, with owners claiming the Google Assistant "butt ...

Nothing enrages me on Black Friday more than you pay for a "deal" that isn't.Black Friday encompasses not just a long weekend but an entire month these days. While the bulk of the deals show up after the turkey's been demolished, luck favors the prepared. There's plenty of early Black Friday deals available right now on phones, fitness trackers, Samsungs, Pixels, and just about everything you either plug in or boot up. While I attack Black Friday deals with the ruthlessness of a girl who despises wasting money (and time), you might be wondering what you need to be wary of and what needs extra attention.Thankfully, I'm willing to share my magic because there's only one thing I hate more than wasting my money, it's letting you waste yours. After spending years tracking down the best Chromebooks, cases, chargers, and so many more technology devices and accessories, I can dissect a deal in less than a minute — and with these rules, so can you. So please, let me help you buy only de...

As we enter the second year of the Oculus Quest 2's life, we're expecting some seriously great deals for the hardware and accompanying accessories this Black Friday. Many companies have already begun to offer sales and discounts on their accessories, and newly refined designs ensure that the accessories you buy today will be a better experience than the ones you purchased this time last year. Here are the best Black Friday Oculus Quest deals to enhance your gaming experience.Jump to Black Friday Oculus Quest 2 dealsSee Oculus Quest 2 stockCasesController gripsFacial interface replacementsHead strapsCables, batteries, and docksHeadphonesUnlike some other consoles, Meta has been able to keep the Oculus Quest 2 in stock at most retailers without issue over the past year — even despite record-breaking sales for the headset. The new Quest 2 128GB SKU is the best value you'll find, as it's the same price as last year's 64GB SKU but with double the storage. Couple that w...

The update will roll out to the Bluetooth versions first.What you need to knowSamsung has announced a surprise new update for the Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Watch Active, Galaxy Watch Active 2, and Galaxy Watch 3.Key highlights of the update include advanced fall detection, updated Group Challenge, and nearly a dozen new watch faces. You can check for the new update in the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone. Earlier today, Samsung announced the release of the stable Android 12-based One UI 4 update for its best Android phones. The company has also released a new update for its older Galaxy smartwatches with some features from its Wear OS 3-powered Galaxy Watch 4 series.The new software update will begin rolling out to Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Watch Active, Galaxy Watch Active 2, and Galaxy Watch 3 users today. The single biggest highlight of the update is that it brings advanced fall detection to the Galaxy Watch 3 and Galaxy Watch Active 2.Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 and Galaxy Watc...

Best answer: The Fitbit Daily Readiness Score is a new feature that helps users optimize their exercise routines by offering personalized recommendations regarding workout intensity and recovery.What is the Fitbit Daily Readiness Score?According to Fitbit, the Daily Readiness Score is a feature that will utilize a user's data to determine whether they're ready for a workout or whether they should prioritize recovery. It's important to note that users must wear their Fitbit for four days and nights to start generating a Daily Readiness Score.With that said, during the first 14 days, Fitbit will adjust your score as it learns how your body responds to exercise and recovery. As time goes on, users will have a better understanding of how their activity levels, sleep patterns, and heart rate variability (HRV) from previous days impact how energized they're feeling today.Of course, there is no obligation to use this feature. The Fitbit Daily Readiness Score services as a guidance t...

Best answer: Not right now, but soon. Meta changed the requirement to log in with a Facebook account in September 2021 but has yet to offer a proper alternative.When forever doesn't mean foreverFacebook previously required a Facebook account just to use an Oculus Quest or Oculus Quest 2, but the company reversed its policy at Connect 2021 in fall 2021. Soon, you'll be able to remove your Facebook account from an Oculus Quest or a Meta Quest 2, as it's now called.Before, it was thought that a Facebook account would always be needed. But that's scheduled to change sometime in 2022. For now, Meta will be testing new ways to log in to an Oculus Quest or Meta Quest 2 with work accounts, happening sometime in late 2021.A better way to playThe Meta Quest 2 is a huge leap over the original Oculus Quest in every way. The lighter and smaller design means the Meta Quest 2 is a more enjoyable experience. It's also got more ergonomic controllers with a better button design, better hap...

It does little to stand out, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.HyperX boasts plenty of models in its Cloud headset lineup, some of which make up what many consider the best PS5 headsets, though none may be as popular or well-known as the Flight. I had the opportunity to test out the HyperX Cloud Flight S and found it an excellent option for PS4. I've now spent some time with the newest Cloud Flight model, designed for PS5 (alongside PS4 as well, of course). Though I don't think it quite lives up to what the Cloud Flight S offers, it's nonetheless another solid addition to the brand.If you've ever read any of my previous headset reviews, you'll notice I put as much emphasis on comfort as I do audio quality. As someone who wears glasses, I need to find a headset that doesn't feel like it's putting too much pressure on my head. No matter how good the audio is, I never find it's worth it to put up with an eventual headache. The Cloud Flight delivers on both fronts ... mostly....

The wait is finally over and Paramount Network's hit show is returning with a brand new season and we have all the details on how you can watch season four of Yellowstone on TV or online.The American television series, created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, first debuted back in June of 2018 and stars Oscar-winner Kevin Costner as John Dutton, Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton, Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton and Wes Bentley as Jamie Dutton. In addition to being the patriarch of the Dutton family, John Dutton is also a 6th generation billionaire who controls the largest contiguous cattle ranch in the U.S., Yellowstone Dutton Ranch.However, the ranch is in constant conflict with the growing town, Indian reservation and national park it borders. The Dutton family ranch is also quite secluded and John Dutton has to fight to protect his ranch from those who would try to take it at all costs.Without going too far into spoilers, season three of Yellowstone ended with all of the members of...

Samsung is not too far behind Google.What you need to knowSamsung has started rolling out the stable version of One UI 4.The update brings new features and visual changes based on Android 12, including new privacy controls and personalization options.The Galaxy S21 series will receive the update first, followed by the Z-series phones, previous S-series models, and others.Hot off the heels of Google launching Android 12 for Pixel phones, Samsung has begun to roll out stable One UI 4 to its own flagship smartphones, starting with the Galaxy S21 series.For those of you not familiar with Samsung's flavor of Android 12 or who have not been part of the beta program, One UI 4 brings a ton of new features with visual updates and enhanced privacy. Similar to Material You dynamic colors on Pixel phones, Samsung introduces its new Color Palette that allows users to change the look and feel of their devices based on colors plucked from their wallpaper.Widgets get a visual makeove...

With an incredible design and gamified UI, this is OnePlus' finest limited-edition phone yet.OnePlus is very different to what it used to be two years ago. For one thing, it now sells phones in the mid-range and budget categories, and it has shifted to ColorOS as the default software on its devices. That said, the bet on the Nord series has paid off handsomely, with the Chinese manufacturer seeing a huge uptick in sales over the last 18 months.The Nord 2 launched earlier this year and continues to be one of the best mid-range phones you can buy, and it is getting just a little bit more interesting. OnePlus has partnered with Bandai Namco over the OnePlus Nord 2 x PAC-MAN Edition, and while this isn't the manufacturer's first limited-edition phone by any measure, it is its most ambitious to date.The Nord 2 x PAC-MAN Edition is clearly aimed at an audience that grew up in the '80s and '90s on arcade games, and what makes it stand out is the attention to detail that OnePlus lavi...

You can now prioritize either battery life or performance while playing on Google's latest flagship phones.What you need to knowGoogle Play now lists games that are compatible with the game modes in Android 12.The most recent update appears to be limited to the Google Pixel 6 series.Game mode lets you run your phone in battery saver or performance mode while playing, depending on your needs.Google has taken mobile gaming to a new level with the release of Android 12, which includes a slew of new features that enhance your gaming experience. Game dashboard is one of those features, and it is now available on the Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro.The Google Play Store's Games tab now features a dedicated carousel at the top with titles optimized for the Pixel 6 series, as spotted by 9to5Google. When you tap a compatible title, a floating bubble will appear, allowing you to open the Game dashboard overlay, where you can access the main optimization options.However, selecting the mo...

We've got all the details to help you watch a Chiefs vs Raiders live stream tonight, wherever you are in the world. Both these sides will be looking to improve upon underwhelming displays last weekend in this key AFC West clash tonight at the Allegiant.The Raiders slipped to 5-3 following a lackluster display in their defeat against the New York Giants last Sunday as they failed to make it three straight wins on the bounce The Chiefs on the other hand, pulled off a 13-7 win over Green Bay last weekend and will be looking to respond after making hard work of that victory.Having thrown just 166 yard last Sunday, all eyes will be on Patrick Mahomes to take Kansas up a gear, but he'll be up against one of the league's least forgiving defences tonight.In what's become a tightly packed AFC West, this is a showdown in Sin City that's certain to shape the rest of both teams' seasons and one that neither side can't afford to lose.Chiefs vs Raiders: Where and when?These two teams meet ...

Following on the heels of Yellowstone's success, Paramount Network is back with an all-new crime thriller starring Jeremy Renner, Kyle Chandler, and Diane Wiest and we have all the details on how you can watch Mayor of Kingstown online or on TV.Mayor of Kingstown tells the story of the McLusky family who live in the small town of Kingstown, Michigan. As manufacturing and other industries left long ago, all that remains are federal, state, and private prisons.Mike McLusky (Jeremy Renner) and Mitch McLusky (Kyle Chandler) serve as power brokers between the police, criminals, inmates, prison guards and politicians in a city completely dependent on prisons and the prisoners they contain. The show gets its name from the fact that everyone in the town refers to Mike McLusky as the Mayor of Kingstown since he effectively runs their small town.Mayor of Kingstown will give viewers a stark and brutal look at the business of incarceration while tackling a number of themes including system...

Read on for full details on how to watch Seahawks vs Packers live stream, no matter where you are in the world. Both sides have had to make do without their quarterbacks in recent weeks, but they look set to welcome back their key men for what looks likely to be a decisive game in the battle for the playoffs.Aaron Rodgers had to sit out week 9 for the Packers, while it's been a longer spell on the sidelines for Seahawks star Russell Wilson who has been on the sick list for three games thanks to a finger injury. Both players are expected to line up for this crucial game at Lambeau Field which will come as a boost to both teams following their recent string of results.The Hawks have won just once in Wilson's absence and now find themselves well off the pace of the Cardinals and the Rams in the NFC West with a 3-5 record.Rogers will need to clear Covid protocols in order to play and hasn't trained for a fortnight, but with the Packers having looked rudderless with Jordan Love at the...

As you start shopping for the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 band, you'll see there's a wide variety of options available. Whether you own the 45mm or 41mm model, you'll need either a 22mm or 20mm band, respectively. Be sure to choose one that will match your style and provide maximum comfort. We've gathered some of our favorite options for your consideration!Extreme comfortBarton Elite Silicone Watch BandStaff PickA band made of silicone material is a great choice for active individuals, like this option from Barton. It comes in both 20 and 22mm band sizes. You'll enjoy over 15 different color choices as well. The premium textured top, stainless steel buckle, has a proprietary locking feature that ensures your band remains in place all day long.$21 at Amazon $31 at WalmartBest of both worldsBEAFIRY Canvas Nylon Watch BandAnother option to consider is this BEAFIRY canvas nylon watchband. It's affordable while still being made of premium cotton canvas durable, b...

The messaging app may soon highlight unread messages with a dot.What you need to knowGoogle is apparently working on a new way to highlight unread items in the Messages app.Unread chats will be indicated with a blue dot on the right side.The experimental feature is available to a small set of users for the time being.Unread chats in Google Messages are currently displayed in bold text to draw your attention to them each time you open the app. However, the messaging app may soon add a new way to highlight unread chats.Google Messages is testing a new method of displaying a blue dot to the right of an unread message's timestamp, according to Android Police. The latest change was discovered by a tipter in the app's most recent beta version (v10.6.240).If the feature sounds familiar, it's because it's not new. Google has long used this type of dot as notification badges on the homescreens of the best Android phones. This type of badge is also available on iOS devices, along...

TP-Link has been making networking equipment for ages, and it's quite good at it. Not only that, TP-Link routers, more often than not, offer competitive specifications at great prices. Most of us want to buy a router that will last a few years and provide more than enough speed. The Archer AX21 is the best overall balance of speed with Wi-Fi 6 and OneMesh support for a low price. Still, there are plenty of excellent choices on the market, and with our list, you'll be able to find the best TP-Link router system to suit your needs.Best overall: Archer AX21The TP-Link Archer AX21 isn't the fastest router you can get by any stretch, but it's fast enough for most homes and comes in at a fantastic price. For the money, you get AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 speeds, four open Ethernet ports, and great software support. The speed breaks down to 1201Mbps at 5GHz and 574Mbps at 2.4GHz. In addition, four Ethernet ports make it easy to connect all of your wired devices at full gigabit speed.OneMesh supp...

Retailers jerry-rigged "fair" systems for buying PS5s, but other tech is still plagued by bots and shortages.Supply chain issues and chip shortages aren't going away anytime soon. Popular devices like the PS5 or Switch OLED will continue to sell out in mere moments, with availability tracking becoming its own cottage industry. Everything from smartphones to new cars are rare commodities these days.Google limited the Pixel 5a to just two countries and is already running low on Pixel 6 Pro stock. Likewise, Samsung all but ran out of its superb Galaxy S21, while chip shortages reportedly made it delay and consider canceling the S21 FE, then abandon its plans for using the Exynos 2200 in the S22 worldwide.And, of course, Sony will fail to meet demand for its console through 2022 (if not longer). Shortages are the new normal, but stores are pretending nothing has changed.Blaming companies for component shortages is unfair and counterproductive. But what's surprising, even dis...