by Joe Maring on (#5RGHR)
Not everybody needs to spend upwards of $1,000 on a new phone, especially those on prepaid carriers looking to cut down on spending wherever possible. Luckily, the best phones under $100 deliver reliable performance and useful features that make them a great choice. We think the BLU VIVO X6 is the best phone in this price range. While there are a few other options to pick from in this price range, these days, the choices are getting harder and harder to come by1. BLU VIVO X6: Best phone under $100Exquisite design isn't something you see with Android phones within this budget, and while "exquisite" isn't exactly the word we'd use to describe the BLU VIVO X6, it certainly stands out from the rest of the phones on this list. The eye-catching black and blue gradient design on the back is bold and bright. Plus, you get decent hardware.Joining that design is a 6.1-inch HD display that reminds us of previous Pixels and iPhones. There's also an 8MP selfie camera, 13MP rear camera, an...
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Updated | 2024-11-27 18:00 |
by Babu Mohan on (#5RGHS)
Nothing's next product could be unveiled sometime before the end of the year.What you need to knowNothing is gearing up to launch as many as five new products.Rumors suggest the company is also developing its first Android phone.The company launched its first true wireless earbuds earlier this year. Carl Pei's consumer technology startup Nothing is working on over five new products, according to a report from India Today. The information was revealed by Manu Sharma, vice president and general manager, Nothing India.Speaking to the publication, Manu Sharma said: For our way forward, our mission is to build for the future. We are speeding up very rapidly in terms of building a pipeline of products, we already have five products in development that we are speeding up to meet our mission of launching iconic products and we are excited about that.Sharma also told the publication that the ear (1) wireless earphones are doing "extremely well." India is currently the bigge...
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by Andrew Myrick on (#5RGHT)
Chrome OS already makes using desktop peripherals dead simple, and we've rounded up the best Chromebook external monitors for any situation. Chromebooks are perfect on-the-go computers for many people, but sometimes you just want to sit down, relax, and do your thing with a big display. That's why almost every laptop, regardless of the software its running, has some port to send video out to an external display. Our top recommendation is the incredible LG 24UD58, but we've also rounded up other great options with lower resolutions and price points that will match perfectly with one of the best Chromebooks.Best overall: LG 24UD58-B 4K UHDThe LG 24UD58 may not look as pretty as other options, but LG has gone out of its way to give users a great experience. This monitor sports a 4K UHD resolution, which is excellent for those who want to get work done and let off steam with a game. Of course, Chromebooks aren't the best for gaming, but if you're going to use your monitor with anot...
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by Shruti Shekar on (#5RGFG)
Samsung already has a comparable feature, but it isn't nearly as good as Google'sGoogle's new photo editing feature, "Magic Eraser," is a very intuitive and good tool but isn't groundbreaking, some experts say, adding that a slew of apps and other phones have similar capabilities. However, they say that If Google is serious about its hardware advancements, then it should keep the feature exclusive to the Pixel 6 lineup and future phones, at least for some time.The new feature was a long time coming. First announced back in 2017, Magic Eraser will edit out unwanted background images using the power of Google's in-house developed chip, Tensor, and its AI-processing capabilities. Tensor will first scan for any objects or people in the background of an image (to be removed) that has been taken on a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro or one that has been uploaded. Alternatively, you can also manually highlight or circle objects to help Tensor identify what needs to be removed. This feature could ...
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by Keegan Prosser on (#5RGFF)
Back in August, Google announced that kids, teens, and their parents could now request to have pictures of minors removed from search results to "give young people more control over their digital footprint." But how do you actually do it? In hopes of simplifying the process, we've explained exactly what you need to do to remove images of yourself or your loved ones from Google search results.Removing images of yourself from Google searchIt's worth pointing out that most images that show up in search results are from websites that aren't owned by Google, meaning Google can't remove them from the web. However, Google will work directly to remove an image from its search results if one of the following things applies:The image depicts financial, medical, or national ID information.The image depicts non-consensual explicit intimate acts ("revenge porn").The image depicts involuntary fake pornography.The host site has exploitative removal practices. The image is part of an in...
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by Derrek Lee on (#5RG1V)
She'll be fighting the good fight, likely against Google.What you need to knowA former Google employee is moving to a new role at the FTC.Meredith Whittaker will serve as senior advisor on AI for the FTC, working alongside Lina Khan.Whittaker has been an outspoken critic of Google's practices since exiting the company.The FTC has another weapon in its arsenal in the fight against Google and other Big Tech companies. Former Google employee, Meredith Whittaker, has announced that she will be joining the FTC as the senior advisor on AI.Whittaker worked at Google for 13 years as an AI researcher before leaving the company in 2019 after it became clear that the company did not align with her AI ethics work.As noted by The Information, her exit also followed protests she helped lead in 2018 over Google's handling of sexual harassment accusations, and she was openly against the company's contracts with the Department of Defense. For this, she reportedly faced retaliation from ...
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by Derrek Lee on (#5RFXT)
Qualcomm faces more competition but sees continued growth.What you need to knowQualcomm announces its fiscal Q4 earnings with more than $9.3 billion in revenue.Revenue from Qualcomm's chip business rose compared to last quarter and the same period last year.Qualcomm expects revenue to exceed $10 billion this quarter despite the ongoing semiconductor shortage.Qualcomm managed to exceed expectations when it announced its fiscal year Q4 earnings on Wednesday. The company reported over $9.3 billion in revenue, with total yearly revenue of more than $33 billion.Quarterly revenue was projected to hit somewhere between $8.4 billion and $9.2 billion, with analysts expecting just under $8.9 for the quarter. It's a notable growth over last quarter's revenue and a 12% growth compared to the same period last year.The company's chip business, QTC, which provides chips for the best Android phones and other connected devices, contributed the most with $7.7 billion, more than the proje...
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by Jay Bonggolto on (#5RFXV)
Search chips are finding more places in Google's ecosystem.What you need to knowGoogle launched a new beta for Google Drive to better filter search results.The new feature works in a similar manner to Gmail's search chips.The beta release is available to all Google Workspace editions.Gmail's handy feature for narrowing down search results in order to locate certain files faster is coming to Google Drive with a new beta update.Google announced today that search chips are available on Google Drive as a beta update. As you might expect, it allows you to refine your search results when looking for specific files stored in Drive. This capability makes the search process faster, taking irrelevant results out of the equation.Search chips appear only after you've entered your initial query. Above the list of results, you can use different chips to refine your search further. Multiple chips can be used at the same time as well. These filters include file location, attachment t...
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by Nicholas Sutrich on (#5RFW4)
The Oculus Quest 2 fabric strap has more cons than pros. It's easy to slide on and off, but absorbs sweat and germs and does nothing to counterbalance the front-heavy design or add cushioning. You can buy the official Elite Strap, but it's a bit pricey and had some early issues with durability. Thankfully, a few third-party alternatives will fit the bill. So whether you're looking for more support, better weight distribution, better cushioning, or other improvements, these are the best Quest 2 straps we've found.Best overall: Frankenquest Deluxe Audio StrapThe Frankenquest, as the name might imply, mashes together different, unrelated products into one magnificent outcome. Taking the HTC Vive Deluxe Audio Strap — arguably one of the most comfortable VR accessories ever — and a 3D printed accessory that snaps to the Quest 2, the Frankenquest head strap is the single best solution you'll find anywhere. Just make sure you buy both the Deluxe Audio Strap and the Frankenquest a...
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by Thomas J Meyer on (#5RFR1)
Web users can now share and view game captures.What you need to knowUbisoft's recently released Riders Republic now has a timed, free trial on Stadia following Hello Engineer and Control.Google is rolling out the Explore Feed feature for Stadia web users, allowing players to view and share game captures.Stadia Pro subscribers can play Ghost Recon Breakpoint for free this weekend only.Stadia is adding more free trials of games alongside a social feature coming to those who play on the web and a free play weekend for Stadia Pro subscribers.Riders Republic, Ubisoft's extreme racing game which launched on Stadia last week, now offers a free, two-hour trial for Stadia players to try out the game before buying. Google allowed games to have free trials beginning last week with 30-minute timed trials of multiplayer construction game Hello Engineer and single-player action game Control Ultimate Edition.Google also revealed that an Explore Feed will be rolling out to all Stadia u...
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by Andrew Myrick on (#5RFR2)
Trying to find the best cheap headphones is already a tough task with the number of options out there, and it gets more difficult when trying to find the best earbuds at an affordable price point. A headset — earphones or earbuds (or even a single earbud) with a microphone and controls — is a different beast than a set of earbuds or headphones without a mic. For starters, not every set will work with Android when you need to answer calls and adjust the volume. Plus, when products are cheap, there are thousands of choices to wade through. So we chose the best ones.Foam fitKLIM Fusion EarbudsStaff PickThey handle calls just fine, fit better than average, and aren't terrible to wear. Best of all, they sound awesome. The Fusion Earbuds also include memory foam ear-tips so that you'll get the best fit possible without having to worry about ear fatigue. Plus, KLIM offers a 5-year warranty if anything goes awry with your amazing earbuds.$20 at AmazonFor the gymJLab Meta...
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by Jay Bonggolto on (#5RFR3)
Google News is making a comeback for Spanish readers early next year.What you need to knowGoogle announced today that it will bring back its Google News service to Spain next year.The Spanish government has adopted a new decree that will let Google negotiate payments with local media outlets.Google shuttered the service in Spain back in 2014 due to a law that would force the company to pay publishers for their content.Google News is resuming service in Spain after a seven-year hiatus. The news aggregator will return to the country early next year, after the government overhauled a local copyright law to allow local publishers to negotiate content fees directly with Google.The country previously forced news aggregators such as Google News to pay local publishers for using their content, even the smallest portions of it like the headline and excerpt, in the News tab of Google Search. That law prompted the search giant to shut down Google News in Spain back in 2014 even befo...
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by Ara Wagoner on (#5RFR4)
It may be hard to pick the best Google Pixel 5 case considering how many options you'll have. So whether you're on the hunt for a ruggedly handsome heavy-duty case that offers maximum protection, a super slim and stylish case, or something in between, these are some of the best Google Pixel 5 cases available right now.Safe and stylishCaseology Parallax for Google Pixel 5Staff PickThis mesmerizing case has protected my last two Pixels with grace, and the colorways for the Pixel 5 are quite fetching. The Aqua Green will fit the green Pixel 5 perfectly, while Burgundy and Navy Blue jazz up the black Pixel 5.From $16 at Amazon $15 at WalmartLong-term protectionTudia Dualshield Merge SeriesIf you want a heavy-duty case without a heavy-duty price, Tudia has been the go-to for years. The Merge Series gives you the impact protection and grip of a flexible TPU sleeve with the sturdiness of a polycarbonate back.$15 at AmazonMachine washableGoogle Fabric CaseGoogle...
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by Derrek Lee on (#5RFN3)
Android 12 is here for some, on the way for many.Stable Android 12 has been available for a couple of weeks now, whether you own an older Pixel smartphone or a new Google Pixel 6. There's a lot to like about it, from the new Material You design language and themes, to the new privacy and security settings. However, not everything is perfect, and some changes may be less than favorable for Pixel owners.So how are you enjoying Android 12 so far? Is it what you hoped it would be?How are you enjoying Android 12 so far?There are a lot of new features with Android 12. For example, widgets are much cleaner and more functional. In addition, there are dedicated hubs for privacy and security, you can search for content within apps from the on-device search engine, there's finally a dedicated game mode, and so much more. So far, it seems to be a much bigger update than the transition from Android 10 to 11, and as mentioned before, there's a lot to like about the update.However, nothi...
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by Michael L Hicks on (#5RFN4)
Silent Hill 2, Metal Gear Solid 3, and Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion would be amazing in VR.During the recent Connect 2021 event, Mark Zuckerberg announced that Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas would be ported to play in virtual reality. Even if you're not a GTA fan, this could mark an intriguing trend all gamers will care about: the Quest 2 could grant second lives to tons of video game classics.Most recently, the beloved action horror game Resident Evil 4 was converted from third-person to first-person for VR on the Quest 2, and it arguably plays better with motion controls than it ever did with traditional controls. People have also modded classic FPSs like Half-Life, Doom, and Quake 2 to work through SideQuest.With this latest GTA announcement, my mind began spinning with all the possibilities. The Quest 2's limited mobile hardware and storage space possibly can't handle more modern games, but it appears games from the Gamecube/ PS2/ Xbox era (or earlier) could be fair game. The ...
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by Babu Mohan on (#5RFN5)
Voting is now open globally.What you need to knowVoting for the Google Play Best of 2021 awards is now open.You can vote for your favorite Android apps and games of the year until November 17.Winners of the Users' Choice and Best of 2021 picks will be announced on November 30.Google on November 3 opened user voting for the Google Play Best of awards. Android users around the world will be able to vote for their favorite apps and games of 2021 until November 17.Google will announce the winners of both the Users' Choice awards and the Best of 2021 picks from the Google Play editorial team on November 30. The editorial team will be judging the best Android apps and games of 2021 on their overall quality, design, technical performance, and innovation.The following apps are the nominees for the Users' Choice App of 2021 award:BitClass: Learn Anything. Live. Together!Sortizy- Recipes, Meal Planner and Grocery ListsEvolve Mental HealthBeing: your mental health friendClu...
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by Nicholas Sutrich on (#5RFJ8)
The alarm system with an Eero router built right in.Since the launch of the original Ring Alarm system in 2018, Ring refined its product only a few times with the most recent launch, including a redesigned keypad and sensors. This time, the Ring Alarm Pro ups the ante by featuring an Eero Wi-Fi 6 router inside, a better and more versatile battery backup system, and the ability to finally store video taken from your Ring cameras locally on a microSD card.But while it may seem like many of these steps are designed to make the do-it-yourself alarm system more, well, do-it-yourself, the reality is that the best features are still kept behind a paywall, ensuring you'll always want to keep a Ring security subscription active. Still, Ring's subscriptions costs are a pittance when compared to the other best home security systems.If you're debating between the two, the $50 difference between the regular Ring Alarm and the Ring Alarm Pro is well worth the price, so long as you're plannin...
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by Jeramy Johnson on (#5RFCB)
The best cheap standing desks are those that are flexible enough to work well in your existing workspace or just about anywhere around your home. Standing while working — even in short spurts — is one of the best things you can do for your health if you are physically able to. The trouble with standing desks is that they are often expensive and replace otherwise perfect office furniture, but thankfully there are several affordable and portable alternatives. Our favorite overall is the FLEXISPOT Standing Desk Converter because it sits on top of an existing desk or tabletop, and it is incredibly spacious, sturdy, and adjustable.Best overall cheap standing desk: FLEXISPOT Standing Desk Converter (M7MB)"In addition to the stand-alone electronic and manual desks, it also makes several desktop units that you can place on existing workspaces. Out of these, our favorite is hands-down the standing desk converter. The unit consists of two levels — an upper section for your laptop a...
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by Ara Wagoner on (#5RFCD)
The Google Pixel 4a was one of the most compelling phones of 2020, offering excellent performance and cameras for less than half the price of its flagship. While it might not cost thousands of dollars, that doesn't mean it's any less worthy of protection. Whether you need to spice up the Just Black of the Pixel 4a or need to keep it safe from the chaos outside your door, these are the best Pixel 4a cases you can buy right now.Pretty protectionCaseology Parallax for Google Pixel 4aStaff PickThis hybrid case comes in four dazzling color combinations — matte black, classic blue, purple, and a darling coral pink — and offers drop protection and grip in a compact profile.From $15 at Amazon $16 at WalmartGuard the front and backPoetic RevolutionThis heavy-duty case comes with a screen protector built into the front frame, offering 360 degrees of protection for your Pixel 4a. I also like the robust kickstand on the back that can be used in portrait or landscape.$15...
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by Jerry Hildenbrand on (#5RFCC)
Fixing the latest bugs and exploits in Android every month.Google has detailed the latest Android Security Bulletin and released the fixes for Pixel devices.These are exploits and other security concerns that affect Android as a whole. Issues with the operating system, kernel patches, and driver updates may not affect any particular device, but these need to be fixed in the Android base by the folks maintaining the operating system code. That means Google and they've detailed the things they have improved for this month.Updated factory images for Pixel devices that are still supported are available, and over-the-air updates are rolling out to users. If you don't want to wait, you can download and flash the factory image or OTA update file manually, and here are some handy instructions to get you started. The company that made your phone uses these patches to send an update out to you.These changes have been released to the people making the best Android phones for at lea...
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by Adam Doud on (#5RF9A)
If you're using one of the best Android phones, you may be a little nervous about your security. Specifically, you might want to know who can access your microphone or camera. Fortunately, Android 12 places a particular emphasis on security. As part of that effort, Google added quick setting toggles that you can use to completely disable microphone and camera access system-wide. All you need to do is add those toggles to your quick settings. We'll show you how!How to add camera and microphone toggles to quick settingsThe first step toward using these toggles is to add them to your quick settings.Swipe down your notification shade twice.Tap the pencil icon to edit your quick settings.Scroll down until you see toggles labeled Mic access and Camera access.Tap and hold on to either of those controls and drag them up. In between the controls that appear in your quick settings and those that don't is a break in the icons along with the text Drag here to remove. You'll want to dra...
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by Ted Kritsonis on (#5RF9B)
Earbud prices can run all over the place. The ones you typically hear about most often are super expensive. Still, there are some great budget options out there, such as the Creative Outlier Air V3, which offer fantastic battery life, exceptional comfort, and superb sound quality. But besides those, we've done the research and gathered some of the best cheap true wireless earbuds for any style and budget.Best overall: Creative Outlier Air V3It's hard to beat the Outlier Air V3 on battery life. Even compared to the best wireless earbuds, they outperform most of them with up to 10 hours of audio playback per charge at default volume. Add another three charges in the case, and you've got about 40 hours of total listening time. Creative also finally added wireless charging, making charging easier when you don't want to plug in.Creative largely based the design on the previous Outlier Air V2, which are a little bigger, though used the same ear tips for improved fit and comfort. It...
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by Jay Bonggolto on (#5RF9C)
The One UI 4 stable update for Samsung's flagship series is now one step closer to launch.What you need to knowSamsung has released a new One UI 4 beta update for the Galaxy S21 series.The update fixes a number of bugs such as the the stretch effect when you hit the end of a list.This is the fourth One UI 4 beta update for the flagship devices, suggesting that the final stable update is close to a public release.Samsung has begun seeding the fourth One UI 4 beta update (based on Android 12) for the Galaxy S21 series, introducing a lot of improvements and bug fixes.The latest update improves the overall software experience for beta testers across all countries where the beta program is live, as per SamMobile. It's over 800MB in size and fixes a slew of bugs, including the stretch "overscroll" effect that appears when you reach the end of a list. This effect was already present in the previous beta update.Other notable bugs that have been fixed by the new update include d...
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by Babu Mohan on (#5RF6N)
The feature could make a comeback in Spring 2022.What you need to knowVolume controls for Chromecast media sessions are disabled on Android 12 devices.The feature was apparently removed from Android 12 after the third beta due to a "legal issue." A "fix" for the issue could arrive with Android 12L next year. Last month, Google finally released the stable version of Android 12 to its Pixel phones. The update brings a ton of new features, along with a revamped user interface. Unfortunately, however, Google has still not enabled volume controls for Chromecast media sessions on devices running Android 12.As per developers on the IssueTracker thread, Google removed the feature with Android 12 Beta 3 in August. While it was initially believed to be a bug, a Googler later confirmed that the cast controls were "intentionally not shown". The Googler added that the feature would be added back with Android 12 Beta 5.Android 12 quietly disabled the ability to change the volume of a...
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by Hayato Huseman on (#5RF6P)
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020)Best value tablet$90 at AmazonProsMuch cheaper than the HD 10The smaller size is better for e-booksMost portable HD Fire tabletUSB-C, fast charging, and 12-hour battery lifeConsThe display isn't as dense as the HD 10Speakers distort at high volumesThe Fire HD 8 might be the best value tablet on the market, boasting smooth performance with Amazon's Fire OS and a surprisingly good display for just $90. While it isn't quite as powerful as the HD 10, it offers all the same basic functionality at substantial savings.Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021)Best Amazon tabletFrom $150 at AmazonProsThe large screen is better for watching videosBetter specs than the HD 8Louder speakers with more clarityUSB-C, fast charging, and 12-hour battery lifeConsThe larger size may be too much for someHighest priced Fire tablet, non-Kids EditionThe Fire HD 10 takes everything great about the HD 8 and kicks it up a notch with better specs, a larger...
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by Ara Wagoner on (#5RF49)
While others may fawn over the Galaxy Z Fold 3, the most alluring foldable of 2021 is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3. As someone who has worn a shoulder holster for almost five years to accommodate ever-growing phone sizes that refuse to fit in my pants' pockets, this is a phone I can actually fit all the way inside my front pocket. However, nothing will transform your splendid new phone into a splintered nightmare faster than a bad fall because it slipped out of your sweaty palms. So get a grip on the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 cases on the market today.Ring around my heartSamsung Silicone Cover with RingStaff PickAvailable in a wide variety of colors, this case keeps both halves connected via a durable woven strap, and at the end of its loop is a silver flat-edged ring so that you can use it as a ring grip. Given that PopSockets will be almost impossible to place correctly on the Flip, this case gives you a dependable grip as well as an easy way to pull it out of your pock...
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by Brendan Griffiths on (#5RF4A)
It's that time of year when we start getting ready for the Black Friday PS5 deals, and you certainly shouldn't be waiting until the day itself if you haven't bagged Sony's new console yet. Since launch, last November, the PS5 has never lasted more than a few minutes when it comes into stock, and we expect the feeding frenzy to be no different well into next year.Jump to Black Friday PS5 dealsSee PS5 stockInternal SSDHeadsetsControllersTVPlayStation PlusWe're here to help point you in the right direction of the stores most likely to get the PS5 in next. There won't be any discounts on the console, though, and Black Friday PlayStation 5 bundles that appear will likely feature a range of items all added at full price because people will pay it. Sad, but true. So, if you see a sensibly priced PS5 at any moment from now, just bag it while you can.It's not all bad news, as the genuine stars of the Black Friday PS5 deals will be found on some of the very best PS5 headsets...
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by Jennifer Locke on (#5RF4B)
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...
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by Jay Bonggolto on (#5RF0Q)
You can now jump right to key moments in a podcast.What you need to knowAmazon Music has launched synced transcripts on podcasts for users in the United States.Synced transcripts allow you to skip to specific parts of a podcast or go back to a portion you've missed.The new feature is available on both iOS and Android for select podcasts.Amazon Music has introduced synchronized transcripts for select podcasts in the U.S., making it easier to navigate an episode by scrolling through the transcript.Starting today, you can easily find specific spots of a podcast by scrolling through the transcript in order to read the segments you've missed or seek ahead in an episode. Transcripts are displayed in paragraph form, with words highlighted as they are spoken by the host.When you tap on a line in the transcript, the playback jumps to that specific point in the podcast. You can also see a preview of the later part of an episode as you move the cursor along. The experience is simi...
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by Derrek Lee on (#5RENV)
Meta gets extra meta as Meta PCs reportedly offers to sell the name "Meta" to Meta.What you need to knowA PC company has reportedly already filed a trademark application for the name "Meta."The application was filed before the Meta, formerly known as Facebook, announced its rebranding.Meta PCs' founders are reportedly asking for $20 million from Meta in order to stop pursuing the trademark.Mark Zuckerberg may run into some problems after announcing his company name change to "Meta." Apparently, the name "Meta" is already in the process of being trademarked by another tech company.TMZ discovered that the trademark application for "Meta" was filed by an Arizona-based company called Meta PCs, which sells their own brand of desktops, laptops, software, accessories, and more. The company has been in business for just over a year and filed the trademark application in August, well before Facebook's Meta's announcement.Meanwhile, Meta filed for its trademark on October 28, acc...
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by Derrek Lee on (#5REJV)
Let your embarrassing WhatsApp messages be a thing of the past.What you need to knowWhatsApp is reportedly going to let users delete messages for everyone in a thread.The feature will likely be paired with an extension to when users can delete messages.It's unclear when the new update will roll out on devices.WhatsApp is working on adding a new feature that will expand its message deletion capabilities and may prove helpful for users of the app.A new beta was spotted by WABetaInfo that details the ability to delete messages for everyone in the thread after a specific time. Currently, that time limit is just over an hour, but WhatsApp may be extending that even further.It's unclear just how long the "delete for everyone" feature will extend its time limit, but the folks over at WABetaInfo managed to have the prompt show up on a message sent more than two months ago.It's very possible that WhatsApp has completely done away with the time limit, or it's merely longer th...
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by Nicholas Sutrich on (#5REJW)
But you'll definitely need it if you ever have to replace your screen.What you need to knowGoogle has released a fingerprint scanner calibration tool for resetting the fingerprint scanner security after a screen replacement.Users only need to run this after replacing the screen, as it will need to reset security keys to recertify the authenticity of fingerprints being read.Some users may need to run this after installing custom ROMs, too.There's no denying that the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are two of the year's best Android smartphones, but the in-display fingerprint scanners leave a lot to be desired. If you're having trouble with your fingerprint scanner, Google's newly-released Pixel repair tool that XDA-Developers discovered isn't designed to ease your burdens.Instead, this tool is here to recalibrate and recertify the fingerprint reader after replacing the display. That's usually done after the display breaks due to a fall or some other mishap. Sometimes, this ...
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by Derrek Lee on (#5REFS)
T-Mobile may have its work cut out for it.What you need to knowT-Mobile reports its Q3 financial earnings, with $19.6 billion in revenue.The carrier now has more than 106 million subscribers, up from 104 million in Q2.T-Mobile expects to exceed its outlook for the year in terms of revenue and postpaid additions.The third quarter was good for T-Mobile, which reported its financial earnings on Tuesday. The "New Uncarrier" reported total revenue of $19.6 billion, as well as record-high service revenue of $14.7 billion. The company also reports 1.3 million customer addition, more than Verizon and AT&T in Q3 and bringing T-Mobile's total subscriber base to 106.7 million.During the earnings call, CEO Mike Sievert also highlighted its new internet service, which recently saw its price drop and relies primarily on 5G. The service saw record growth in Q3 with more than 500,000 subscribers, which is likely fueled by the attractive price point and Sprint's mid-band spectrum.Si...
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by John Levite on (#5REFV)
Black Friday isn't too far off, and anyone in the market for a Chromebook should pay close attention. Last year, we saw major price drops on several of the best Chromebooks, including $100 off the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 2-in-1 Laptop and $200 off the Dell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1, which is a great device for students.This year, some impressive Black Friday deals have already begun, mostly at Best Buy — where the retailer is promising to refund you the difference if the price drops lower after you buy it between now and Black Friday. So if you want to relax and eat leftover turkey over Thanksgiving weekend instead of hunched over a keyboard, now seems like a great time to snag a deal.We are rounding up all of the best Chromebook Black Friday deals that we can find from around the web, and we will update this page as more deals come in over the next month. We expect some amazing deals on the actual holiday, but for now, here are the best deals we've found.Lenovo Chromebook ...
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by Nicholas Sutrich on (#5REFT)
Not only are the best smart LED light bulbs more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, but you'll feel like Tony Stark walking through your home, controlling the lighting with just your voice. Google Home is one of the tentpole home assistant platforms and all of the bulbs listed here pair perfectly with all of the best Google Home compatible devices available. All you need to ask yourself as a consumer is how many bulbs you need for your home and how much are you willing to spend?Full-feature smart lightsTo experience the best that smart LED lights can offer, you'll want to start with ones that are entirely customizable with the full spectrum of colors available. Because these bulbs are way more expensive than any light bulb you've probably bought in your life, you're going to want to choose a brand that can satisfy all your smart lighting needs or piece together your house plan with bulbs that don't need a hub.Light your home with colorPhilips Hue Color Smar...
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by Sean Endicott on (#5REFW)
The Goldilocks sizeOculus Quest 2 128GB$299 at AmazonProsCheaperSupports all the same features and gamesRuns all original Oculus Quest gamesConsNo microSD slot for expandable storageThe 128GB Oculus Quest 2 supports all the same features and games as the larger storage version. Since Oculus upgraded the base model from 64GB to 128GB, it's easy to recommend the most affordable Quest 2 as the ideal model.More space to exploreOculus Quest 2 256GB$399 at AmazonProsEven more room for gamesExtra space for media storageRuns all original Oculus Quest gamesCons30% more expensive No microSD slot for expandable storageThe Oculus Quest 2 with 256GB of storage gives you enough room for 20 to 50 Oculus Quest games before running out of space. There's enough space where you can download a movie for offline viewing, but don't go crazy with that since there's no microSD card slot. Beyond that, this version has no exclusive features.Oculus Q...
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by Derrek Lee on (#5REFX)
It's not over just yet for the Pixel 3.What you need to knowGoogle is reportedly preparing a final update for the Pixel 3 series.Guaranteed security updates for the Pixel 3 and 3 XL ended in October.The update is expected to arrive in Q1 2022, skipping out on the December Feature Drop.The Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL have pretty much reached end-of-life, with their final major update coming in the form of Android 12 in October. It was also the last month they were guaranteed to receive security updates, however, those still holding onto these devices still have one final update to look forward to.9to5Google reports that Google will apparently roll out the final update for the devices early next year. This means the devices will skip the December feature drop just as they were left out of the November security patch.It's unclear what Google has planned for the update, but it will likely include a final set of bug fixes. Although, it's possible that Google may extend sup...
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by Nicholas Sutrich on (#5REFY)
Switch to an annual 2Tb plan to take advantage of this offer.What you need to knowGoogle is giving away free 2nd-gen Nest Hubs to new Google One 2Tb tier annual subscribers.The offer is valid in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Germany from now until December 10, 2021.After upgrading to the 2Tb annual plan, you'll receive a code in your email that can be redeemed for the 2nd-gen Nest Hub.Running out of storage on your Google One plan? If you're considering upgrading your cloud storage amount, Google hopes you'll consider paying for the 2Tb plan on an annual basis and is willing to give away some free things in order to convince you to do it. Specifically, users who upgrade to the 2Tb Google One plan — paid annually, not monthly — will receive a code for a free 2nd-gen Nest Hub after making the switch.The fine print of the deal, found by 9to5Google, says that users who upgrade will receive an email about a week after they upgrade. That means you should ge...
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by Namerah Saud Fatmi on (#5REFZ)
Google brought a really cool gesture to Pixel 5 devices on Android 12 where users can tap the back of their phones to do certain tasks. It's called Quick Tap, and you can customize it to do actions like take a screenshot or open a select app. It's also no surprise that Pixel 6 and 6 Pro users have access to this feature. If you have a compatible Pixel and want to use this gesture, here's how to customize it to your liking.How to customize back tap gestures on a Google Pixel phoneOpen Settings on your Pixel.Tap System.Select Gestures to locate the relevant options.Once you're in the gestures settings, tap Quick Tap.Make sure the Use Quick Tap toggle is switched on.Select the custom action of your choice from the list.While scrolling through the Quick Tap settings, you'll notice that there's an option to require stronger taps. This can be useful if you keep triggering the gesture by accident.Tap awayNow that you've discovered what your Pixel can do, have some fun w...
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by Thomas J Meyer on (#5REG0)
Voice commands can handle a lot more as well.What you need to knowThe v34 update is rolling out today on Oculus Quest headsets with new and improved features.Space Sense officially comes to the platform and allows users to see real life objects and other people from within the headset.The update also improves voice commands to handle more tasks and adds the ability to see Android phone notifications while in VR.The latest update for Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2 headsets is rolling out today and adds new and improved features to stay connected in virtual reality.The biggest addition in the v34 update is the new Space Sense feature. First datamined in an earlier Oculus Quest update, the feature allows users to see when real life objects or other people have entered their VR playing space without taking off the headset. Any furniture, people, or large pets that enter the user's Guardian bounds will be highlighted in the headset and "surrounded by a pink-ish glow."While ...
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by Samuel Contreras on (#5RE4X)
What you need to knowNetgear is releasing a 5G-enabled Orbi NBK752 Wi-Fi 6 tri-band mesh system.The Orbi can use 5G as the primary connection or as a seamless failover for a wired connection.A router and satellite with 5,000 square feet of coverage comes in at $1099.99 and works with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.Netgear has revealed a new 5G-enabled Wi-Fi 6 Orbi. This mesh system has an AX4200 tri-band Wi-Fi 6 connection with a dedicated backhaul to keep speeds high on the mesh. The pack comes with a main router and a satellite with a combined coverage of up to 5,000 square feet. The router also comes with an Ethernet WAN port so you can use wired internet sources as well.About 42 million Americans have no access to high-speed wired internet service making 5G and LTE the best way to get online. The Orbi supports 5G on all major carriers including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon with support for bands n2, n5, n25, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77 as well as LTE bands B2, 4, 5, 7...
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by Ara Wagoner on (#5RE4Y)
The Google Pixel 4a was one of the most compelling phones of 2020, offering excellent performance and cameras for less than half the price of its flagship. While it might not cost thousands of dollars, that doesn't mean it's any less worthy of protection. Whether you need to spice up the Just Black of the Pixel 4a or need to keep it safe from the chaos outside your door, these are the best Pixel 4a cases you can buy right now.Pretty protectionCaseology Parallax for Google Pixel 4aStaff PickThis hybrid case comes in four dazzling color combinations — matte black, classic blue, purple, and a darling coral pink — and offers drop protection and grip in a compact profile.From $15 at Amazon $16 at WalmartGuard the front and backPoetic RevolutionThis heavy-duty case comes with a screen protector built into the front frame, offering 360 degrees of protection for your Pixel 4a. I also like the robust kickstand on the back that can be used in portrait or landscape.$15...
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by Harish Jonnalagadda on (#5RE1K)
Running out of storage on your PS5? We've rounded up the best external drives and SSDs for PS5, and now you can use the internal M.2 SSD slot. Sony has finally confirmed hardware requirements for the M.2 slot on the PS5, and the latest software update allows you to use an internal SSD to increase your console's storage. These are the best M.2 SSDs for your PS5.PS5 M.2 SSD requirementsBefore we get started, we'll need to take a look at the list of hardware requirements for an M.2 SSD to work as an internal drive on the PS5. On Sept. 15, 2021, Sony released a software update that lets everyone use the M.2 SSD slot to extend the storage of their PS5 consoles.Sony's M.2 hardware guidelines are pretty stringent, so you will need to pick up the latest M.2 drives. These are the full requirements for an M.2 drive to work as internal storage on the PS5:PCIe Gen4 interfaceMinimum sequential read speeds of 5,500MB/sDrive storage has to be within 250GB to 4TBM.2 form factor with 22mm...
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by Namerah Saud Fatmi on (#5RDYZ)
The Motorola Edge 2021 brings gaming phone-level high refresh rates to the mid-range segment. You would want to take care of that beautiful 6.8 inch LCD. To help you preserve your beloved phone's smooth display, we have rounded up the best Motorola Edge screen protectors for you.Plan A, B, and CSupershieldz Tempered Glass Screen Protector (3 Pack)Staff PickTempered glass screen protectors are the best of the lot as they don't take away much from the touchscreen experience. Supershieldz offers an excellent set of three for a bargain, making sure you always have backup pairs ready for your Motorola Edge.$8 (3-pack) at Amazon $8 (2-pack) at WalmartLeave nothing uncoveredTQLGY Camera Lens Protector, Tempered Glass (3+2 Pack)TQLGY's set of protectors includes tempered glass for your Motorola Edge's display as well as camera lens protectors. You get three units of the screen guard and two units of the camera protector. So say goodbye to scratches on your screen an...
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by John Levite on (#5RDVK)
In a world filled with GameStop stocks, football players getting paid in BitCoin, and TikTok on your TV, it can be hard to stay grounded and connected with the people you love. Thanks to this early Black Friday sale from Facebook, you can change that and save some money with the Facebook Portal smart display on sale for $79. That's $100 off its regular price.Facebook Portal | $100 offThis smart display puts a lot of emphasis on great video calls so you can check in with your friends and family during the holidays. It has a smart A.I. that can track you even while you move around during the call. Today's deal takes $100 off.$79 at FacebookRecent deals on the Portal devices required you to buy more than one, but if that was never in the cards for you then this deal might be better since you only need to get one to save. You can buy more than one if you want and still save. Add up to four in your cart and get them for $316 total instead of $716. The site lets you ship to mul...
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by Alex Dobie on (#5RDVM)
Google's 2020 flagship could've been a great little mid-ranger for the next couple of years.RIP Pixel 5.Google's flagship phone for 2020 has essentially been discontinued in all eight markets where it was sold — following in the footsteps of the Pixel 4, which also barely lasted a year from emergence to early retirement.Google hasn't directly addressed the reason for the Pixel 5's discontinuation, but it seemed to acknowledge the situation in a statement this August, following the Pixel 5a launch. With our current forecasts, we expect Google Store in the U.S. to sell out of Pixel 4a (5G) and Pixel 5 in the coming weeks following the launch of Pixel 5a (5G). These products will continue to be available through some partners while supplies last.Our own sources tell us it's related to the global chip shortage, specifically the low availability of the device's Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor. The limited supplies that Google managed to secure instead went towards the ...
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by Samuel Tolbert on (#5RDVN)
Now that's it's officially out, the PS5 is pretty hard to find due to low stock and high demand. However, as PlayStation fans continue to check the PS5 restocks, one of the most crucial accessories many players need alongside this extremely in-demand system is a headset.Not only does a headset enhance your gaming experience with its immersive qualities, but thanks to the variety of incredible multiplayer games available, you'll need something to interact with your friends and other players. Thankfully, there are tons of wireless options available, so we put together a list that features some of the best wireless PS5 headsets on the market.The best Wireless PS5 Headsets 2021, at a glance:SteelSeries Arctis 7P for PlayStation 5: Best overall: The best bang for your buck.Pulse 3D Wireless Headset: Best official: The official model and supported headset for the PS5.Sennheiser GSP 370: Best audio quality: A reliable, stellar entry.HyperX Cloud II Wireless - Gaming Headset: Best b...
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by Babu Mohan on (#5RDVP)
The latest additions make Samsung Internet a great alternative to Google's Chrome browser.What you need to knowA new beta version of the Samsung Internet app is now available.The latest update makes it possible to move the address bar to the bottom of the screen. Along with making the app easier to use on Galaxy phones with tall screens, the update also adds support for tab groups. Samsung Internet is one of the best Android browsers available, offering a great scrolling experience and a clean user interface. Samsung has now released a new beta version of the app, adding a few highly-anticipated features (via SamMobile).Samsung Internet beta v16.0.2.15, which is now rolling out to the company's best Android phones, finally adds the ability to move the address bar from the top of the screen to the bottom. The functionality will make browsing the web a lot easier on phones like Galaxy S21 Ultra.To move the address bar to the bottom of the screen, open the Samsung Internet...
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by Harish Jonnalagadda on (#5RDS9)
Not much has changed from last year, but that doesn't mean the iPhone 13 is boring — far from it.Most of the attention for this year's iPhone launch was directed towards the Pro series, and for good reason. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max offer 120Hz OLED panels for the first time, new camera hardware with the ability to shoot cinematic videos, all-new internal hardware, and larger batteries that last over a day with ease.The regular iPhone 13, on the other hand, still uses a 60Hz panel — like last year's iPhone 12 — and retains the same design aesthetic. While it doesn't look like there are too many new features this time around, Apple has upgraded the essentials. The iPhone 13 has a new 12MP primary camera with sensor-shift stabilization, the same A15 Bionic as the Pro model, and a larger 3240mAh battery that ensures it lasts all day without any issues whatsoever.Another noteworthy change this year is that the iPhone 13 base model comes with 128GB of storage as ...
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by James Bricknell on (#5RDSA)
One of the biggest perks of having a PlayStation Plus membership is the free games you get every month. The free PlayStation Plus games offered this month include three major titles, all available on either the PS4 or PS5. Check out the list of games below, with downloads available starting November 2. Enjoy the price of free until December 1, 2021.★Dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodgeKnockout City (PS5 & PS4)The fan-favorite dodgeball multiplayer game is back again, this time free for players who missed out on the chance to dive into the free trial for it when it initially launched. Electronic Arts recently entered the game's second season with a Hollywood-themed map and brand new activities for players.See at PlayStation★ Who dunnit?First Class Trouble (PS5 & PS4)First Class Trouble is a social deduction party game where six players aboard a luxury space cruiser try to stop a rogue A.I. However, two of the six players will take on the roles of...
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