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PlayStation's game lineup is as strong as ever — but stumbling blocks loom large.A new year means new opportunities and new head-scratching decisions in the gaming industry, with one of the biggest players being Sony and its gaming division at PlayStation. While PlayStation had a somewhat quiet 2021, it was by no means boring, releasing a handful of titles while investing in new teams for PlayStation Studios.With the PS5 entering its second year on the market, more games are on the way, in addition to exciting new tech and absolutely massive industry shakeups. There's a lot to go over, so let's take a look at what to expect from PlayStation in 2022.Back to back blockbuster releases — and what's nextSony isn't waiting far into the year to launch some big games. Guerrilla Games' Horizon Forbidden West is slated to arrive on Feb. 18, 2022. Hot on its heels is Polyphony Digital's Gran Turismo 7, a racing title that'll be out on March 4. Meanwhile, Sony Santa Monica's God of...

This deal could help sell more Xbox Series Xs in the short term, but Microsoft has much bigger VR/AR fish to fry.Microsoft claims its recent Activision Blizzard acquisition is about more than just gaming: it will "provide building blocks for the metaverse." So while everyone initially freaked out about Game Pass exclusives and whether Call of Duty will remain on the PS5 (it will), most people didn't notice that Microsoft's ambitions go well beyond the traditional console wars with Sony and Nintendo.When I first read the announcement, I'll admit I groaned a bit. Since Facebook announced its own Metaverse plans last year, it's been the go-to buzzword for tons of companies. Particularly at CES, where companies claimed they were building it without any basis in reality. It's become hard to take any metaverse plans seriously when no one can agree on what, exactly, it is.In this thread I will post every ridiculous usage of metaverse I see at #CES.— VR Nima (@NimaZeighami) January 5...

Extraction sounds a lot more freeing than quarantine.Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction is a first-person shooter where up to three players work together to defeat alien-like parasites and save the world. It's based on a limited-time mode that appeared in the Rainbow Six Siege, Ubisoft's competitive multiplayer game, back in 2018.Now it has been fleshed out into its own game while retaining most of the Rainbow Six Siege DNA. It takes a lot of familiar aspects from weapons, abilities, and characters (called Operators) into a player versus environment (PvE) mode that supports cross-platform play and saves between Stadia, PC, and consoles. While Rainbow Six Extraction presents some fresh ideas for cooperative gameplay, it fizzles out a lot sooner than expected.Rainbow Six Extraction review:Gameplay, story, and presentationStadia performance and featuresShould you buy it?At a glanceRainbow Six Extraction on Stadia ...

Best answer: Yes. PlayStation VR2 features four cameras on the headset for tracking and the tracking bands on the PS VR2 Sense controllers. This allows for room-scale tracking, but players will still be limited by the USB-C cable that tethers PS VR2 to the PS5.PS5 VR room-scale tracking: Taking a walkOne of the biggest detractors from full immersion on the original PSVR was the limited range of movement options. While some of the best PSVR accessories, like the PlayStation Aim controller, enabled unique experiences that made specific VR games feel quite realistic, you still could only move so far or turn so much before being yelled at by the game. Other VR systems like the Oculus Quest 2 let players play anywhere and move as much as they want, so it makes sense that PlayStation gamers would want the PS5 VR — or PS VR2 — to work the same way.At CES 2022, PlayStation announced that instead of the outside-in tracking method employed by PSVR, PS VR2 would utilize inside-out tra...

It will start displaying a yellow warning banner for phishing and ransomware.What you need to knowGoogle announced a new feature that warns you about suspicious files on Drive.A yellow banner will show up at the top of a document that potentially contains malware.The same security measure was previously rolled out to Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drawings.Some Google Drive users may not be stranger to various forms of attacks distributed through the platform, including phishing lure and ransomware attacks. To help you stay on top of potentially malicious files, Google has introduced a new security feature to Drive.Google Drive will now start displaying a warning banner when you are about to download and open a potentially dubious document, image, or any type of file. The new feature is rolling out across all Google Workspace, G Suite Basic and G Suite Business tiers.The yellow banner shows up at the top of an attachment page after you click on a link. It should appear bef...

We've got everything you need to watch a UFC 270 live stream online for the Ngannou vs Gane PPV event tonight. Maybe you're already signed up to ESPN, or you're looking for information on joining for the first time. We'll walk you through it.The main card Heavyweight title bout between Francis Ngannou and Ciryl Gane is set to take place around 10pm ET / 7pm PT / 3am GMT. As UFC 270 is a PPV event though, you may as well check out the earlier fights on the card too. The earlier bouts are undeway right now, but you've still got plenty of time before the main card begins, which also includes another title fight as Brandon Moreno defends his belt again Deiveson Figueiredo in the flyweight division.UFC 270 on ESPN+ | $99.98 (new subscribers)UFC 270 on ESPN+ | $74.98 (existing subscribers)The main event is certainly one to watch as an upset could well be on the cards given the French contender is undefeated and his striking and grappling stats compare very favorably about Ngannou'...

Gboard may be the best keyboard app for Android, but it's not infallible. Don't you hate it when you somehow end up in one-handed or floating mode in Gboard? If you're in a similar rut and don't know how to revert back to the full-fledged keyboard, we can help you out. Here's how to get out of one-handed mode or floating mode in Gboard.How to get out of one-handed mode in GboardWhile one-handed mode is designed for ease of use, many find it challenging to exit out of it. Thankfully, getting out of one-handed mode in Gboard is extremely simple and a matter of seconds.Open any app and start typing so you can open Gboard.Tap on the expand icon on the right.Once you've tapped on the expand icon, you'll be out of the one-handed mode in a jiffy. After you've found it the first time, you'll realize how easy it really was to exit the one-handed mode.How to get out of floating mode in Gboard the easy wayGetting out of the floating mode in Gboard isn't nearly as straightforwar...

WhatsApp is one of the best messaging apps for Android for some of the best Android phones. You can now use WhatsApp to send payments from within the service if you're in India and Brazil. In India, the feature relies on the country's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) framework to facilitate money transfer. You can use WhatsApp to send and receive money from your friends and family. Here's how you can get started with payments on WhatsApp.How to set up payments on WhatsAppTo get started with payments on WhatsApp, you'll first have to link your bank account to the service. UPI works primarily with your phone number, and the service is available for all major banks in India. The best part is that even if you don't have a UPI account set up with your bank, you will be able to use the payments option within WhatsApp, as it will create a new UPI ID for you. Here's how to set it up:Open WhatsApp from the app drawer or home screen. Select the action overflow menu (three vertical dots...

What if delivering mail was actually exciting? Postknight 2 dares to dream that dream.As you might be able to guess from the title, Postknight 2 casts you in the role of a titular Postknight, an important job in the land of Prism that combines delivering mail with protecting the people. It's almost an absurd idea, but against the game's rough and tumble medieval fantasy backdrop, it makes a bit more sense that your local mailman might need a sword and shield out in the field.Postknight 2 isn't revolutionizing genres or serving up wild new mechanical intrigue, but it's one of the better casual games I've played that wasn't packed to the gills with ads or aggressive in-app purchases. I'd say this charming little title could easily earn a comfy spot on our list of best casual Android games.As an up-and-coming Postknight trainee, you'll have to successfully complete deliveries to improve your rank and formally graduate to official Postknight status. Deliveries come from main or...

Last year was refinement. This year, we need evolution.The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is one of the best foldable phones for a reason. Aside from actually being small enough to fit in a pocket, its release provided much-needed upgrades over its predecessor like a proper water-resistance rating. But foldable phones are still in their infancy with plenty of room for improvement.With the expectation that Samsung will release a fourth-generation flip phone later in 2022 — especially given how well the Flip 3 is selling — we're hoping for more than just a spec bump. We'd love to see a design evolution that includes a few hardware upgrades.Goodbye creasePeople seeing or using the Z Flip 3 for the first time typically have one consistent concern amidst all the positivity and excitement: the horizontal crease in the display's center. To my recollection, everyone I know who has seen the phone in person has asked me if the crease is a bother. Acting like a crease is ideal isn't any bett...

And so it has begun.Samsung is finally preparing to launch its next flagship smartphone series. The Galaxy S22 is set to launch in February during Samsung's next Galaxy Unpacked event. While there's no exact date yet outside of rumors, nor do we have any official specs, Samsung has already opened up reservations for anyone expecting to buy the phones.Have you placed your reservation, or are you planning to?Are you reserving the Samsung Galaxy S22?During Samsung's announcement, the company's president and head of MX, Dr. TM Roh, teased what we can expect from the new series. In the process, he dropped plenty of hints that the Galaxy S22 Ultra would be a spiritual successor to the Galaxy Note 20.He spoke about the history of the Galaxy Note series and told us that Samsung would introduce "the most noteworthy S series device" at the February launch.While specs are unconfirmed, we are expecting the Galaxy S22 series to be powered by both the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and Exynos 220...

Advising Olympic athletes to leave personal electronics at home isn't a bad idea at all.The U.S., Canada, and the U.K. have all advised participants in the Winter Olympics 2022, held in Beijing, to leave their phones, tablets, and laptops at home. Instead, asking athletes to rely on burner phones for communication while abroad. The Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland went a step further and will provide "disposable" devices to their Olympic teams, which will be destroyed once they return home. Expect more of this sort of thing as we approach the Feb. 4 opening for the Winter Olympic Games.It's easy to reduce this reaction as some sort of xenophobic or racially charged screed, but if that's what you're here for I will gleefully disappoint you. Having said that, I do think this is the right reaction from the governments involved.Let me stop you right there. Wonderful people live in and were born in China. I've never been, but I'm told it's also a beautiful country steeped in ric...

Wear OS 3 needs consistent support as much as it needs new features.There's no doubt Wear OS 3 is an exciting endeavor for Google. What we've seen with the Galaxy Watch 4 software is nothing short of impressive compared to Wear OS 2. However, we still don't have a complete picture of what Wear OS 3 will be like for non-Samsung smartwatches, particularly on some of the best Wear OS watches set to receive the update later this year. And while the prospect of receiving the update is exciting, it's what happens after the update that I'm curious about.One of the problems with Wear OS 2 is that Google left the platform largely ignored. Any notable updates to the platform were few and far between, with other smaller updates scattered about over the past few years, and it wasn't very often that new features were added to Wear OS. In 2019, Google added one of the most useful platform updates when it introduced Tiles, which gives users access to apps without necessarily having to open them...

The Galaxy S21 FE is a potential bestseller — it just needs to cost a little less.The Galaxy S20 FE was a big hitter for Samsung in 2021. In a year where the Galaxy S21 series sells anywhere nearly as well as its predecessors, the S20 FE pulled in $10 million sales on its own. A big part of the phone's success was down to its value. It offered similar hardware as the standard Galaxy S20 at a lower price point, propelling Samsung to deliver one of the best Android phones of the year.Samsung is now trying to emulate a similar level of success with the Galaxy S21 FE. The phone features a new design that mimics the Galaxy S21 and comes with updated internals in the Exynos 2100. Other than that, Samsung hasn't really changed much here, with the S21 FE offering the same camera modules as its predecessor, as well as the same battery and charging tech.Still, there's one area where the S21 FE stands out: software. The phone is the first from Samsung to offer One UI 4 based on Android ...

We've seen this coming for some time.What you need to knowAn update to the Google app brings new At a Glance features for Pixels.At a Glance can now display fitness activity from certain apps and bedtime information from the Clock app.The widget can also show a timer or stopwatch.While Google has been busy fixing a bevy of Pixel 6 bugs with the latest January update, the company has just rolled out an update to the Google app that enables new features for the At a Glance widget.Mishaal Rahman spotted the new update on Friday, which has already begun rolling out to Pixel owners.The update enables new toggles in At a Glance for Timer and Stopwatch, Bedtime, and Fitness. The first is pretty self-explanatory, while Bedtime will integrate with the Clock app to show your upcoming bedtime. Fitness is a bit more interesting and integrates with some of the best running apps like Strava and Adidas Running to show your activity information on your home screen.Some of the new At ...

Network Address Translation (NAT) is a big part of connectivity for online multiplayer games, deciding how incoming traffic is handled. For gamers, your NAT type can play a huge role in who you can play with, establishing barriers if it's not set up right. There are many reasons you may have strict or even double NAT types showing on your network, but with the help of port forwarding, you can easily overcome the hurdles. But it's not the only method. For many folks, ensuring Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is enabled on their router is enough. Here's how to change NAT type on PlayStation 4 in order to play online.How to port forward your PlayStation 4The ports you need to open up for your PlayStation to get an open NAT are the same, but the actual process may differ from router to router. The steps are constant, but you may need to dig around your router's settings to find what you need.Open the Settings app on your PlayStation 4.Next, scroll down and select Network.Selec...

Smart assistants like Amazon Alexa are becoming more popular than ever, and headphone makers are jumping on board to offer it as a built-in signature feature. They're growing in number and variance, but the Sony WH-1000XM4 stand out because of the combination of comfort, sound quality, and versatility in bringing Alexa into the fold. We have plenty of options for all ranges, so here are our picks for the best headphones with Alexa.Best overall: Sony WH-1000XM4It's a challenge for any company to follow up on a great product with something better, but in this case, Sony has fixed some key pieces to make the WH-1000XM4 one of the best pairs of headphones available. There was no need to reinvent the wheel when so much of the previous model worked so well, though good changes are always welcome.Whether the WH-1000XM4 sound any better is highly subjective. There is aptX HD and LDAC codec support, plus 360 Reality Audio for those who can hear it on Tidal. Sony also tinkered around w...

WhatsApp is making life easier for people switching from Android to iOS.What you need to knowWhatsApp will soon allow you to import your chat history from Android to iOS.The upcoming feature was discovered in the most recent WhatsApp beta for iOS.However, it appears that a separate app will be required to complete the migration.WhatsApp appears to be preparing to make it easier to migrate your chat history from Android phones to iPhones, as revealed by the latest beta of the app's iOS version.As spotted by WABetaInfo, the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS contains evidence of an upcoming capability to move your chats from Android to Apple's handsets. However, it appears that WhatsApp will rely on an app called Move to iOS in order to make the migration possible.Last year, WhatsApp revealed that it was collaborating with Google and Apple to allow users to move their chat history between platforms. The option first appeared on Samsung phones before making its way to iOS device...

Put on your thinking hat for these games!Smartphone touchscreen controls offer a unique opportunity for puzzle game developers. Our pocket devices are uniquely suited for clever puzzle games because they're easy to pick up and play whenever you have a few free moments. If you're looking for a game to test your brain, check some of these out.And when you're done here, be sure to check out our best games for Android!The gamesBomb ClubBrain It On!Bridge Constructor PortalChess LightThe Eyes of Arahocus.The House of Da VinciI Love Hue & I Love Hue TooLara Croft GOMekoramaMini MetroMonument ValleyPifflePatternsThe Room seriesSamsara RoomThrees!Total Party KillTurn It On!Two DotsBomb ClubDo you like great writing, colorful characters, challenging puzzles, and explosions? Then Bomb Club is just the game for you. Featuring a charming cast of safety-minded bomb enthusiasts, Bomb Club has you make your way through a huge map of puzzle levels, all ba...

When was the last time you did a database rebuild on your PS4? If you don't know what that is or can't remember when you last did it, chances are it's been too long. Luckily the process is simple and safe, and while it will take longer if you haven't done it before (or ever), there's no harm in improving your console maintenance right now. Following these steps will remove corrupted data and reorganize your files, enhancing your system's performance and ensuring you can keep playing the best PS4 games for as long as possible.How to rebuild your PS4's databasePower off your PS4 and do not use rest mode.Hold the power button down until you hear two quick beeps. This will alert you that you have entered Safe Mode.Connect your DualShock 4 controller to the USB-A slot in the front of the PS4.Scroll down in the menu until you reach option 5, Rebuild Database.Press the X button to start the rebuild. A PS4 database rebuild may take minutes or hours, depending on how full your...

Are you searching for the best speakers for Echo Dot? I love how easy the Echo Dot makes it to listen to music, search for news, add items to your grocery list, and so much more. The device's sound quality isn't terrible, but if you're looking for more than just low-level background music while you work or do chores, I prefer to pair it with compatible speakers for a better audio experience. There are hundreds, if not thousands, out there for you to choose from, and here are some picks that you'll be sure to be happy with.Best overall speaker for Echo Dot: Sonos One SLSonos is known for its powerful hi-fi speakers, but it makes the dream of owning them a little more accessible with the One SL. This is not only the most affordable wireless speaker the company offers, but it also produces impressive sound quality and looks stylish to boot. Since it's so compact, it won't take up a lot of space in your home. Both the black and the white version look good, so you can purchase the l...

The suit alleges that Google compelled advertisers to lie about the Pixel 4.What you need to knowTexas Attorney General Ken Paxton is suing Google over alleged illegal advertising claims about the Pixel 4.The ads in question were run 2,405 times across iHeartMedia radio stations across the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston markets between October 28 and December 2, 2019.The suit states that Google failed to provide smartphone samples to eight radio personalities even though it required the reader to make positive testimonies about their personal use with the Pixel 4.Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has brought forth a lawsuit claiming that Google compelled radio advertisers in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston markets to make inaccurate claims about its Pixel 4 smartphone — a phone that had a hard time making our list of best Android phones and had yet to be released at the time the ads were being recorded.Furthermore, the claim alleges that Google refused to provide smart...

Streaming with optionsSpotifyFrom free at SpotifyProsSharing music is easyFree tier optionMore Premium optionsMassive podcast library ConsMore expensiveWeaker audio quality Limited to certain countriesSpotify brings music streaming to the masses thanks to its ad-supported free tier and various Premium plans. While Spotify doesn't offer the highest sound quality (yet), its expansive library boasts more than 70 million songs, thousands of playlists, and more than two million podcast titles.Premier streamingApple MusicFrom $5 at AppleProsAd-free musicHigher audio quality 24/7 radio stationsOnline and offline listening ConsNo free tierLimited podcast libraryLimitations on protected songsThe subscription-based Apple Music offers listeners access to more than 75 million songs, exclusive music videos, and curated playlists from around the globe. You can also tune in to Apple Music 1 for exclusive interviews from Zane Lowe, Ebro Darde...

A vibrant LED light strip that bends to your will to bring a touch of neon nostalgia to your walls.LED light strips are a dime a dozen — well maybe not that cheap, but you get what I mean, right? There is no shortage of inexpensive LED light strips, but many lack useful features or even good color reproduction. Govee is not one of those brands. In fact, it makes some of the best LED light strips on the market. It pushes the boundaries of this technology, and the Govee Neon LED light strip is just another example of this.Govee is known for taking the well-known LED light strip and expanding the possibilities of the technology in products like the Immersion TV LED Backlights and the Flow Pro light bars. With the Neon LED light strip, Govee wants to bring the old-school neon light fixture into the smart home realm. Let's dive into how well it accomplishes this goal.Govee Neon LED light strip review:Price and availabilityWhat's good What's not goodThe competitionShould y...

Placing your reservation earns you a $50 store credit towards other Samsung products during pre-order.What you need to knowSamsung has opened reservations for the upcoming Galaxy S22 series and Galaxy Tab S8.The company promises exclusive benefits, such as a $50 Samsung store credit redeemable for other Galaxy products during pre-order.Samsung is expected to announce its next Galaxy flagship smartphone and tablet in February.Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked 2022 seems to be all set for its early February schedule, which isn't entirely surprising if the company's tradition is anything to go by. Prior to that event, the company has begun accepting reservations for the Samsung Galaxy S22 series and Galaxy Tab S8.The reservation allows you to reserve a spot to pre-order the devices after they are announced. It should be noted, though, that this is not yet the pre-order period. More to the point, reserving allows you to get an email notification when pre-orders for both devices begin...

There are many choices when it comes to finding the best Chromebook keyboard for your laptop or other Chrome OS devices. The best keyboard for your setup comes down to a few things, including space, desk layout, and of course, your hands. While the selection of keyboards with Chrome OS layouts is limited, there are some great options for students and professionals alike that work great with Chrome OS shortcuts that can save you time. Luckily just about every keyboard will work with Chrome OS, so if you've just set up one of the best Chromebooks and want a better typing experience, you have plenty of options.Made for GoogleLogitech K580 Wireless Keyboard, Chrome OS EditionStaff PickYou can swap between two devices quickly on this slim keyboard, which has Chrome OS function keys up top and a number pad with page up/down, home, and end keys. This keyboard works with both Bluetooth and Logitech's USB adapter, and the built-in phone holder makes it the perfect keyboard to switch...

Get a sense of your healthFitbit Sense Advanced Smartwatch$234 at AmazonProsBuilt-in GPSImproved heart-rate monitoringGoogle Assistant & Alexa built-inECG & EDA sensorsGenerous battery lifeConsNone we could findIf you want to get your health on track with in-depth data, you may find that the Fitbit Sense has everything you need. It has an improved heart rate sensor and new ECG and EDA sensors that provide key details about your health and wellness. You'll be able to track your progress and make improvements.The upgrades we neededFitbit Versa 3 Health & Fitness Smartwatch$213 at AmazonProsBuilt-in GPSImproved heart-rate monitoringGoogle Assistant & Alexa Built-inGenerous battery lifeConsLacks ECG & EDA sensorsWhile the Fitbit Versa 3 doesn't have the new ECG and EDA sensors, it has filled in many blanks that users have been waiting for. You now have built-in GPS, Active Zone Minutes, improved heart-rate monitor...

OnePlus is doubling down on its MediaTek partnership in 2022.At the end of last year, OnePlus outlined the strategy it is taking with its phone launches going forward. The numbered flagship series sits at the pinnacle of the Chinese manufacturer's offerings, with R series models — OnePlus 9R and 9RT — targeted at regional markets. The Nord and Nord CE series are aimed at the mid-range category, with Nord N models making up the entry-level.To reflect this change, OnePlus is doing things a little differently in 2022. The OnePlus 10 Pro is already official in China, with the phone launching three months earlier than usual. The flagship is set to make its way to global markets in early Q2, and it will be joined by two models in the OnePlus 10 lineup: the standard OnePlus 10, and the OnePlus 10R.A few leaks from earlier this month suggested the OnePlus 10 would feature MediaTek's Dimensity 9000 chipset, but that is not the case. I confirmed with an insider source that it is the ...

Our Quest 2 beginner's guide will help orient you with your new device so you can dive right into the fun.Whether you bought the Meta Quest 2 for yourself or received it as a present, you have every reason to be excited. It's a joy to use, and unlike wired VR headsets, it's a device you can basically pick up and play without much fuss or setup.That being said, the Quest 2 has a surprising amount of depth if you know where to look, from experimental features like wireless PC VR gaming to handy shortcuts that aren't written down in the startup guide. Then there's its huge library of hundreds of games, many quite expensive or intense for first-time VR gamers, making it hard to know where to start. And the Quest 2 can be uncomfortable to use for long periods without the proper Quest 2 accessories to support you.We've used the Quest and Quest 2 for years, and know all of its tricks, shortcuts, and settings you'll need to get the most fun out of it as possible. Armed with our Quest 2...

The best in wirelessOculus Quest 2$299 at Amazon$299 at Best Buy$299 at OculusProsInexpensiveCompletely wirelessStandalone VR consoleEasy to play quicklyHuge library of gamesRegular updates and new featuresConsMobile processorStill need a Facebook account (for now)LCD black levels are badMeta is taken the gaming world by storm with the Quest 2, a powerful standalone VR headset that's quickly become the go-to VR console of choice for over 10 million gamers. It may not have the big-name IPs of the PlayStation brand, but many bespoke indie-built experiences have already made a name for themselves, and the system is both inexpensive and incredibly easy to use anywhere you want.The future of VRPlayStation VR2See at PlayStationProsPlayStation brand means big-name IPsCutting-edge optics and OLED displayAdvanced haptics and triggersEye-tracking110-degree field of viewConsWiredNeeds a PS5 to workLikely expensive total costSony aim...

Chrome OS' "new neural palm model" promises to cut down palm rejection latency by as much as 50%.What you need to knowGoogle is reportedly working on bringing faster palm rejection to Chrome OS devices.Two new developer flags found in the Dev channel on Chrome OS 99 suggest the change could bring a 50% reduction in palm rejection latency.The "new version of neural palm model (v2)" will likely hit Chrome OS devices sometime later this year. Google's Chrome OS has come a long way over the years, and the best Chromebooks can handle productivity tasks with ease. However, when it comes to the stylus experience, Chrome OS devices leave something to be desired. This is mainly because palm rejection on Chromebooks isn't that good.As per recent code changes spotted by the folks at AboutChromebooks, Google is working on fixing this with a "new version of neural palm model (v2)." The experimental flag, which was spotted in the Dev Channel of Chrome OS 99, promises to reduce palm rej...

Best answer: Wi-Fi Direct is a peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connection between devices that enables faster data transfer than Bluetooth with lower latency than Wi-Fi through a router. You can use it on Android with the Cast Screen feature on certain devices and the Nearby Share file-sharing feature.Wi-Fi Direct moves data faster with lower latencyWi-Fi Direct works a lot like a standard Wi-Fi connection except that instead of connecting to a router, it allows devices to connect directly to one another. This will enable you to connect without needing to be within range of a Wi-Fi access point. In addition, this direct connection allows a higher transfer rate and lower latency.One way this tech has been implemented on Android is with the Nearby Share feature. Nearby Share allows Android devices to send files to one another quickly and securely. This is more important than ever as file sizes grow with 4K and HDR technology, especially for videos.Sharing on your Android phone, you can sele...

I find Android's lack of small smartwatches disturbing.Between the fitness tracking more and more of us rely on and their ability to triage and interact with notifications without having to pull out our phones every 90 seconds, Android smartwatches have evolved from a luxury to an essential need these days. Mine controls my music, reminds me of calls and notifications when I forget my phone in the other room, manages my timers, tracks my heart rate, gets me to take breaks when I get tunnel-vision, and even lets me pay without having to get my wallet or phone out of my holster.In short, it's just as much a lifeline as my phone. Which makes it all the more painful when I find myself still having to make sacrifices and compromises to find one that only kind of fits.At the beginning of the month, we saw shiny new smartwatches from Razer and Fossil including the new Skagen's 41mm Falster Gen 6, which Fossil touted for having the same features and screen size as its larger 44mm Fossi...

It's finally getting rich text formattingWhat you need to knowGoogle announced the rollout of rich text formatting for Chat on the web.The new capability allows you to add bold, italics, and underline styling to your text.It is rolling out to all Google Workspace customers, as well as G Suite Basic and Business customers.Google is finally rolling out support for rich text option to Chat on the web, allowing users to format their text depending on the situation.The new text formatting feature, albeit long overdue, should arrive on Chat over the next 15 days, Google said in a blog post. It gives you the option to bold, italicize or underline text in your messages. You can also add these formats using the correspnding keyboard shortcuts on many of the best laptops. There's also an option to change text color and add bullet points.You can access the various formatting options by highlighting the text you want to format and then clicking a small "A" icon in the compose bar. ...

Smartphones are laden with smarter features every year, and one of the constant ways is Google Assistant, which you can find on several different devices. Some of those include headphones, where the trusty Assistant can pipe up on demand, either by voice or a simple button press. Google's own Pixel Buds A-Series) are the leading example for making that access easy, functional, and consistent. But there are plenty of other options to choose from, so we gathered the best Google Assistant headphones for you to consider.Best overall: Google Pixel Buds A-SeriesWhen Google remade its Pixel Buds, the 2020 iteration was a huge departure from the original model in that they were true wireless earbuds. The Pixel Buds A-Series take so much of the 2020 iteration and came out with what is essentially a cheaper variant that performs more consistently.The tight integration with Google Assistant is easily one of the biggest reasons to want these earbuds above all others, especially when said...

The Games are set to begin in Beijing from February 4.What you need to knowThe U.S. and a few other countries have advised their athletes to use "burner" phones at the Winter Olympics in Beijing next month.The guidance sent by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee last month warned athletes that their devices may be "compromised with malicious software." Several National Olympic Committees have decided to provide their athletes and staff with burner phones to combat surveillance. The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee has advised athletes to use burner phones and laptops during the Winter Olympics in Beijing next month. Similar advisories have also been issued by National Olympic Committees in Canada, the Netherlands, and the UK (via The Wall Street Journal.The warning was sent to American athletes in September last year and again in a bulletin in December. The bulletin recommended athletes leave their phones and laptops at home to avoid possibl...

With its latest round of phones, Oppo splits its best tech between the Find X5 Pro and OnePlus 10 Pro — with confusing results.Although the partnership has become more public over the past year, OnePlus and Oppo have always enjoyed a pretty close relationship behind the scenes. Back in the days of the OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 6, the OnePlus flagship would effectively be a rebadged version of the main Oppo handset, though with higher-end internals. More recently, as the high-end phones have diverged, a similar pattern has emerged in some of OnePlus's cheaper Nord phones. The entry-level Nord N100, for example, was basically a rebadged Oppo A53 running different software. With these two brands, crossing the streams isn't anything new.Nevertheless, the merger of OnePlus into Oppo in late 2021 makes things official and a lot more public. And as both brands' 2022 flagships break cover, we're getting our first glimpse of what this closer relationship will mean in real terms.The unusua...

Among all the great messaging apps on Android, Telegram stands out above the rest. One primary reason why is that Telegram receives consistent updates. Aside from fixing any serious bugs, the developers regularly add new features. In a December 2021 update, they pushed the ability to react to messages, along with many other patched features. Let's get you set up so you're ready to apply reactions to Telegram messages in your next conversation.How to apply reactions to Telegram messagesFrom time to time, someone may send you a message where writing an actual response is overkill, but you don't want to ignore it completely. In those instances, adding a reaction directly to the message is a quick and effective way to convey your stance on the situation. Here's how to do just that.Open the Telegram app on your phone.Select the conversation containing the message you wish to react to.Tap on the message you want to react to.Choose the emoji that represents your reaction.If a...

While others may fawn over the Galaxy Z Fold 3, the most alluring foldable of 2021-2022 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 and an easy way to pull it out of your pocket...

Your honeymoon period with G Suite legacy free subscriptions will end on July 1.What you need to knowG Suite legacy free edition users will need to upgrade to a paid Google Workspace subscription to keep using their existing services.The legacy free subscription will be shuttered starting July 1, and users must choose a Workspace subscription by May 1.If you're unable to upgrade by that date, Google will do it for you based on the services you currently use.Google allowed free G Suite legacy users to continue using its services without charge even after it stopped offering the free edition to new customers back in 2012. However, their honeymoon period with free legacy office software apps will come to an end soon.Organizations that are still subscribed to the G Suite legacy free edition will have to pay for a Google Workspace subscription starting in July or lose access to Google's services such as Gmail and Meet (via 9to5Google). To continue using those office apps, G Su...

Streaming with optionsSpotifyFrom free at SpotifyProsSharing music is easyFree tier optionMore Premium optionsMassive podcast library ConsMore expensiveWeaker audio quality Limited to certain countriesSpotify brings music streaming to the masses thanks to its ad-supported free tier and various Premium plans. While Spotify doesn't offer the highest sound quality (yet), its expansive library boasts more than 70 million songs, thousands of playlists, and more than two million podcast titles.Premier streamingApple MusicFrom $5 at AppleProsAd-free musicHigher audio quality 24/7 radio stationsOnline and offline listening ConsNo free tierLimited podcast libraryLimitations on protected songsThe subscription-based Apple Music offers listeners access to more than 75 million songs, exclusive music videos, and curated playlists from around the globe. You can also tune in to Apple Music 1 for exclusive interviews from Zane Lowe, Ebro Darde...

An unfortunate way to start off the year.What you need to knowUsers have reported visual errors in the January 2022 v37 Quest 2 system update.These visual errors come in the form of chromatic aberration, or colored edge fringing, and appears to be a software processing error.Oculus support has acknowledged the issue.If your Oculus Quest 2 has received January 2022's v37 update, you might notice that things look a bit funny. Some users on Reddit quickly began to report that things didn't quite look right and, per Oculus support, something looks to be going wrong with the v37 update.Specifically, these users are complaining of chromatic aberration that's appearing on everything they see in VR. Chromatic aberration is usually found in photos and is a byproduct of how lenses work. It can be described as a colored fringe around the edges of objects.This color fringing is usually eliminated via software processing algorithms but it appears that something was tweaked or turn...

YouTube is expanding the capabilities of supervised accounts.What you need to knowYouTube has sent out notices to Family Link users with supervised accounts.Soon, these accounts will be able to access YouTube Music and sign in on smart TVs.Content will still be restricted based on age.YouTube informed users on Thursday that it's finally giving your kids' supervised accounts access to more apps and devices.The email was sent out to users who manage supervised accounts through Family Link. For the uninitiated, supervised accounts were launched in 2021 as a way for parents to manage the content their kids have access to on YouTube. This will restrict certain videos based on the age range.That said, there were other limitations, such as which apps and devices could be used with supervised accounts. However, some of those limitations are being lifted "in the coming weeks."As per the email, your kids will finally be able to log into YouTube Music with their accounts. Here, ...

Social media is getting expensive.What you need to knowTikTok has begun testing paid subscriptions for creators.It's unclear what form it will take, but creators will likely be able to set prices for their content.The announcement comes just a day after Instagram announced its Subscription service for creators.Social media paywalls are becoming more common as companies implement more monetization features via subscriptions. TikTok is the latest to look into such a feature, according to a report by The Information.As noted by the report, TikTok has already started testing the idea, although it has not provided any details on the subscription model.TikTok wasn't immediately available to provide Android Central with a comment, but a spokesperson gave the following statement to The Wall Street Journal:"We're always thinking about new ways to bring value to our community and enrich the TikTok experience."While the statement is pretty vague, it doesn't shoot down the idea...

Samsung is looking to the past to help shape its future.What you need to knowSamsung is preparing for a Galaxy Unpacked event in February.The company teases improved nighttime photography and AI improvements.Samsung also teases experiences "that can't be found elsewhere."Last year, many felt the absence of the Galaxy Note series as Samsung introduced optional S Pen accessories for its best Android phones. However, the company is teasing a comeback of sorts at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked which is scheduled for February 2022. It's here where we can expect Samsung to launch the flagship Galaxy S22 series.Samsung's president & head of MX Business, Dr. TM Roh, teases in a blog post some of the things we can expect from the launch. He starts by reminiscing about the legacy of the Galaxy Note series, which launched in 2011, beginning the trend of ever-growing displays."The S Pen also surprised everyone," he writes. "It empowered people to bridge creativity with productivi...

All Pokémon are S+ tier in my eyes. Except Stunfisk. I do not much care for Stunfisk.A new take on a long-established formula, Pokémon Unite pits teams of 5 trainers against each other, each armed with just a single Pokémon. Pokémon can evolve, hold items to improve their standing, and even learn new moves during battle, but some Pokémon have natural advantages over others — which is why we're heartlessly ranking them here. But let the record show that if my editor let me, this would be a tier list based on how huggable these cuties are.Tragically for me, we're instead ranking them based on how well they perform overall, along with how they perform in their respective categories of All-Rounder, Attacker, Defender, Speedster, and Supporter.Only a fraction of all (extremely huggable) existing Pokémon are currently represented in Unite — there are just 29, including a limited-time Zeraora. As such, the list of Pokémon in Pokémon Unite is nowhere near the hundreds of Po...

Best answer: The public preview for Project xCloud ended on Sept. 11, 2020. 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: InnocenceAI: The Somnium FilesAliens: Fireteam EliteAmong UsANVIL: Vault BreakerAragami 2ArchvaleArt of RallyAstria AscendingArk: Survival EvolvedAtomicropsAstroneerBanjo-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 MortaCiti...

If there's anything I've learned in all my years of gaming, it's that headsets can make or break your gaming experience. So not only do you want good sound quality when searching for the best PS4 headsets, but you also want a comfortable fit and a microphone that won't make you want to rip your hair out. We did all the research for you to make sure you get the most out of your money without having to go through trial and error. Now, if you've upgraded to a PS5, we have a few more recommendations for the best PS5 headsets.Long battery lifeAstro A50 Wireless Gen 4Staff PickWith Dolby 7.1 surround sound and a built-in MixAmp DAC, the A50 produces some of the finest sounds you can find in a gaming headset. Featuring 15 hours of battery life, this headset charges back up in its magnetic cradle. As far as wireless is concerned, it connects to the PS4 through a base station using a 5GHz wireless transmitter.$300 at Best BuyBest budget optionRazer Kraken X UltralightThis ...

Android 12 saw the introduction of new privacy features from Google, empowering users to have more control over their data. In line with that, Google launched a nifty "quick delete" feature to delete your recent search history in Google Chrome. Here's how you can find and use it to delete the last 15 minutes of your history on Android.How to delete your recent search history in Google Chrome for AndroidOpen the Google app on your phone.Tap on your profile picture in the top right corner.Tap on Delete last 15 minutes.This feature is so accessible and incredibly easy to use. You don't even have to step into the Google Chrome app itself to delete your recent history. It takes literally three taps to remove the last 15 minutes of your browsing history. If you change your mind, you can cancel the deletion from the toast notification at the bottom.Going down the Chrome rabbit holeWhether you're on your phone or your computer, Google Chrome functions as a powerful web browse...

The best connected techSamsung Galaxy Watch 3From $310 at AmazonProsOptional LTE connectivityGPS, HRM, NFCBlood oxygen monitoringImproved health/fitness trackingTwo size optionsConsShorter battery life than predecessorToo expensive for some peopleTizen OS needs to work with third-party supportIf you've been on the hunt for a wearable that will keep you as connected as possible, you'll love the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3. You'll enjoy many essential features, including onboard GPS, heart-rate monitoring, health/activity tracking, and NFC payments. You'll also have the option of choosing a model with LTE connectivity.Detail-oriented trackingGarmin Vivoactive 4From $265 at AmazonProsGPS, HRM, NFCPulse Ox sensorBody Battery energy monitoringExcellent battery lifeTwo size optionsConsNo LTE connectivityLacks AMOLED displayNot a lot of app supportThere's a lot to admire about the Garmin Vivoactive 4. In addition to detailed health/fitn...