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Both models are part of HP's all-new Fortis lineup of education-focused laptops.What you need to knowHP has unveiled two new education-focused Chromebooks.The HP Fortis 14" G10 is powered by Intel processors and offers optional 4G LTE connectivity.HP's Fortis 11" G9 Q is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c-powered Chromebook that promises "ultimate portability." HP has rolled out two new Chromebooks that combine a rugged design with advanced wireless connectivity and "immersive interaction."The Fortis 14" G10 Chromebook is "purpose-built for cloud-native learning." The Chromebook is powered by Intel processors and comes with Wi-Fi 6 support and optional LTE connectivity. It is also ruggedly designed, with MIL-STD-810H compliance. One key feature that gives the Fortis G10 an edge over the best Chromebooks in the budget segment is its full-skirted anchored keyboard, which is resistant to spills and dust.The rugged Chromebook features a 14" diagonal display that "gives students the f...

PowerhousePlayStation VR2See at PlayStationProsHigher resolution OLED displayEye tracking110-degree Field of View Controllers based on DualSense techUSB-C compatible120Hz refresh rateConsUnknown priceWiredRequires a PS5PlayStation VR2 is the next evolution of virtual reality for consoles. Taking advantage of the PS5's power, it should deliver performances that weren't possible on the original PSVR. With upgraded specs and a new set of Sense controllers, PS VR2 could be everything players have wanted. What remains to be seen is how expensive it will be and the types of games that come to it.Old techPSVR$334 at AmazonProsOLED displayLarge game catalogComfortable to wewarConsOutdated PlayStation Move controllersInferior specsMultiple cables requiredPSVR is a great option to enter the virtual reality space on PlayStation, but it's not for everyone. Several wires along with the PlayStation camera make it less than ideal, and its s...

It has turned Google Assistant-powered smart displays and speakers into a pesky bedfellow.What you need to knowGoogle has changed the ambient white noise sound on Nest devices.However, the new sound has clearly irritated many Nest users due to its "quieter" or "muffled" sound.As a result, many customers have been unable to sleep.Google Assistant is capable of a variety of tasks, including lulling you to sleep by playing white noise. However, a recent change to that feature is causing significant annoyance for many Google Nest device owners.Several users expressed their displeasure with the company's decision to change the white noise sound on the Google Nest community forum page and Reddit (via 9to5Google). The change has made it difficult for many people to sleep, which defeats the purpose of the feature.The general consensus among those who've complained is that the new white noise is "much quieter" and sounds "muffled." Another complaint is that it loops every 10 min...

Board games have been going through a renaissance over the past decade, and it doesn't take a lot of digging in the Google Play Store to see that's the case on Android as well. If you're having trouble getting everybody together under one roof or just don't have any more shelf space for another box, pick up your Android phone or tablet to grab these board games.It should be noted that finding highly-rated board games on the Play Store is an uphill battle. Whether it's because new updates broke the UI, fundamental aspects didn't get ported over correctly, or the spirit of the original was lost in translation, many of the board games here barely pass my muster. However, there are a few gems.We've also included a couple of great apps to have on hand when you do get the gaming crew together. And when you're done here, be sure to check out the best Android games!The gamesAI Factory Limited gamesAmong the StarsArmelloBetter SettlersCarcassoneThe Castles of BurgundyChwazi F...

The global Redmi Note 11 may differ slightly from the one launched in China a few months back.What you need to knowXiaomi's Redmi Note 11 series phones will make their global debut next week.The phones were launched in China in October last year. It remains to be seen if all three models will make their way out of China.Xiaomi's Redmi Note 11 series, which is currently limited to China, will soon make its global debut. The Chinese smartphone maker today confirmed on Twitter that the global variants of the Redmi Note 11 series phones will debut at an online launch event on January 26.This year, our #RedmiNote11Series is ready to #RiseToTheChallenge!Join us to witness the launch of this legend on January 26th at 20:00 (GMT+8)! pic.twitter.com/uAhHatRcN5— Xiaomi (@Xiaomi) January 18, 2022Sadly, no other details have been confirmed by Xiaomi yet. As we've seen in the past, the global variants of the Redmi Note 11 series devices may not be identical to their Chinese coun...

The Samsung FE phones and tablets cater to patient, frugal shoppers. Why not cater more to the irresponsible impulse buyers, too?The Galaxy Note 10+ Star Wars Edition.The greatest trick Samsung ever pulled off was convincing people its "Lite" phones and tablets were actually "Fan Edition" devices. But the last two Samsung FE devices — the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE and Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE — have taken the shine off the FE label a bit.The excellent Galaxy S20 FE, still one of our best Android phone picks despite its age, gave us unrealistic expectations for Fan Editions. But Samsung told Goldilocks in reverse with its FE tech: It started with the just-right phone before releasing the decent-but-underpowered Tab S7 FE and the solid-but-overpriced S21 FE.So instead of spending so much time worrying about the Galaxy S21 Lite in all but name, I wish we'd spent more time noting the absence of other Limited Edition phones instead. Because Samsung and other OEMs seem to have seriou...

The experimental feature is rolling out to the Philippines, Brazil and Spain.What you need to knowTwitter has expanded its test feature for flagging misleading tweets.The experimental capability is being rolled out to Brazil, Spain and the Philippines.The test kicked off in August of last year to explore ways to identify and remove misinformation on its platform.Over the last few years, Twitter has launched several initiatives to combat misinformation on its platform, including a crowd-sourced content moderation tool called Birdwatch and a labeling system to remove false COVID-19 tweets. The service is currently experimenting with a new method of removing misleading content from the site.Twitter has announced the expansion of a test feature that allows users to report content that they believe is misleading. The experiment began in August of last year in the United States, South Korea, and Australia. After tapping the report tweet button, participants would be able to fla...

New leak reveals an upcoming OPPO flagship phone with a Hasselblad-powered camera.What you need to knowReal-world images of OPPO's upcoming flagship device have emerged online.The OPPO Find X5 Pro could include a camera system with Hasselblad branding similar to the OnePlus 10 Pro.The leak also revealed more details about the phone in line with previous rumors.OPPO appears to be following in the footsteps of its sister company OnePlus. A new leak has disclosed an unsurprising similarity between OPPO's upcoming flagship phone, dubbed the Find X5 Pro, and the OnePlus 10 Pro in terms of camera.The new leak has surfaced on CookAPK, revealing what appear to be real-world photos of the OPPO Find X5 Pro. The images show the phone's front and back panels, which correspond to Steve Hemmerstoffer's (@OnLeaks) leaked renders.#OPPO Find X5 Pro- Snapdragon 8 Gen1- 2K 120HZ refresh rate LTPO 2.0 display- 50MP IMX766 OIS + 50MP IMX766 + 13MP S5K3M5- 5000mAh battery80 watt wired chargi...

It will start shipping in April.What you need to knowLogitech announced its stylus for USI-enabled Chromebooks.The Logitech Pen is rechargeable and promises up to 15 days of battery life on a single charge.Its soft silicone body and tri-lobe shape provide a comfortable, non-slip grip.The Universal Stylus Initiative (USI) was formed back in 2018 to develop a standard for cross-device stylus compatibility, with several OEMs throwing their weight behind the effort. HP and Lenovo are among the companies that have produced touchscreen Chromebooks with support for USI stylus since then.On Tuesday, Logitech announced its answer to the best stylus for Chromebook, compatible with USI standards. The Logitech Pen is priced at $65, which is quite more expensive than most stylus available in the market, such as the Lenovo USI Pen.When choosing a stylus that fits the tiny hands of your kids, it's often best to go with one that has a wider grip. The Logitech Pen has a silicone grip an...

Samsung's 4nm Exynos 2200 has hardware-accelerated ray tracing and variable rate shading.What you need to knowThe Exynos 2200 is now official, with the chipset featuring AMD's RDNA 2-based Xclipse GPU.The GPU includes ray tracing and variable rate shading, and is designed to deliver 'console-quality' visuals on mobile. Samsung says the Exynos 2200 is in mass production, and we should see the chipset in the Galaxy S22. Two years ago, Samsung partnered with AMD to overhaul the GPU on its Exynos chipsets, and we're seeing the first realization of those efforts today. The Exynos 2200 is now official, and the chipset has a host of exciting new features as Samsung takes on Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1.The big highlight is that the Exynos 2200 is the first Samsung chipset with AMD's RDNA 2-based GPU. The architecture is key here because that lies at the foundation of current-gen consoles like the PS5. Dubbed Xclipse 920, the GPU offers the first hardware-accelerated ray tracing...

The Galaxy S21 FE may be fashionably late to the party thanks to supply issues and all this nonsense (waves dismissively at 2021), but it's here at last with a small price cut and a larger screen. Whether you're picking one up from Samsung or your carrier, your new phone deserves the best protection at the best price, which is why we've rounded up the best Samsung Galaxy S21 cases for you to choose from, whatever your style or budget.Vibrant gripCaseology Nano PopStaff pickThis case has the perfect blend of compact yet cushioned, flashy yet functional. Caseology's Nano Pop Series offers robust protection around the S21 FE's sweet, sweet cameras while staying slim and stylish.$17 at Amazon $17 at WalmartReady to workSupcase Unicorn Beetle Pro SeriesThis mil-spec rugged case uses its size to hold a wide, stable kickstand that works in both portrait and landscape mode. The built-in screen protector has a special circle of adhesive to ensure you still get crystal clea...

The latest Android version now lets you disable 2G for added security, but your phone may not support it.What you need to knowGoogle has quietly rolled out a setting in Android 12 that allows you to disable 2G on newer smartphones.The feature improves security because 2G lacks strong encryption, which attackers can use to intercept communications.However, many Android phones may not support the kill switch.While the best 5G networks in the U.S. including T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless continue to expand their coverage across the country, most smartphones still allow for interoperability with 4G/3G/2G networks. There are instances when your device tries to connect to available 2G networks, and the Electronic Frontier Foundation notes this poses a security risk.Fortunately, Google added the ability to disable 2G modems on Android phones, though this may have gone unnoticed by everyone. The 2G kill switch, according to the EFF, is a useful feature that should protect devices ...

In just a few short years, big phones have gone from being an outlier to the norm in the smartphone industry. Just about every major device released these days has a larger physical size, and while that's great for watching movies and playing games, it can be a challenge for those who prefer phones to be small and compact. Thankfully, there are still plenty of options out there, including the Google Pixel 5a as our top overall pick. So if you're looking eagerly at that iPhone 13 mini but don't want to switch over to iOS, these are the best small Android phones you can buy.Best overall: Google Pixel 5aRegardless of size, the Pixel 5a is just one of the best Android phones you can buy right now. Admittedly, it may already be showing some age, especially from a design standpoint, but it's still tremendous value.As you'd expect from any Pixel, the Pixel 5a takes incredible photos, taking Google's computational photography prowess into its own performance. Whether you're shooting ...

Google just has not made an iMessage competitor because "none of the internal Google divisions have a definitive responsibility for messaging"Instead of complaining about Apple's iMessage service and pushing the company to adopt RCS, Google could easily fix its problem by creating a unified messaging platform, but experts say the company has been "chronically plagued" by too many cooks in the kitchen and have simply not prioritized this.Last week a Wall Street Journal article detailed how Apple has locked-in U.S. teens with its iMessage service. In response to this, Google's senior vice president Hiroshi Lockheimer tweeted: "Apple's iMessage lock-in is a documented strategy. Using peer pressure and bullying as a way to sell products is disingenuous for a company that has humanity and equity as a core part of its marketing. The standards exist today to fix this."Apple's iMessage lock-in is a documented strategy. Using peer pressure and bullying as a way to sell products is disin...

The device will supposedly be called the Pixel Notepad.What you need to knowGoogle has reportedly picked a name for its rumored foldable smartphone.The device may be called the "Pixel Notepad," though Google reportedly considered naming it the "Logbook."It is rumored to be significantly less expensive than the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3.Despite earlier rumors claiming that Google had ditched its Pixel Fold plans, there are strong indications that it is ready to dabble in the foldable space. The most recent Android 12L beta build contained hints about how Google's foldable would look, giving us some OPPO Find N vibes. A new report sheds light on its name and price point.According to 9to5Google, the search giant's foldable phone will be called the "Pixel Notepad" rather than the Pixel Fold, which has been rumored to be canceled. Display Supply Chain Consultants analyst Ross Young revealed late last year that Google abandoned its plan for a 2022 foldable device announcement due...

Legacy Google Voice is biting the dust next month.What you need to knowGoogle is shutting down the legacy Voice service for personal accounts in February as part of its transition to the new app.However, some of the Google Voice's longstanding features on the web won't carry over to the new experience.These include carrier call forwarding, ring scheduling, Do Not Disturb timer and more.Google's handy service for using a phone number other than your own personal number is going through a major shakeup. The legacy Google Voice website is shutting down in February for personal accounts and some of its long-time features are going away with it.In an email to the few remaining users of the legacy Voice, he search giant detailed the web features that will be phased out as it transitions consumers to the new experience (via 9to5Google). A standout feature that will bite the dust is the carrier call forwarding capability."Carrier-forwarded calls from your linked number automati...

When your PlayStation or peripherals do things you've never seen before, it's understandable to get worried. The DualShock controller light doesn't usually flash white. There are two main reasons you might see the flashing white light on your DualShock controller: either the battery is dying, or the controller failed to connect to your PlayStation console. Both these things are fixable. We just need to troubleshoot the problems so you can get back to enjoying your games with the best PS4 controllers available. Here's how to get started.Jump to:Check your USB cableReset your consoleReset the controllerStart in Safe ModeUsing a DualShock 4 on PS5Products used in this guideAmazonBasics PlayStation 4 Controller Charging CableDualShock 4 Wireless ControllerCheck your USB cableUSB cables can be fragile. One of the most straightforward fixes is replacing your old USB charging cord and replacing it with shiny new ones. Just some basic USB charging cables work well wi...

The Motorola 'Frontier' could have a 200MP camera and support 125W wired fast charging.What you need to knowThe key specs of a future Motorola smartphone have been leaked.It could be a new flagship device with crazy specs such as a 200MP camera, 125W fast charging support, and next-gen Snapdragon 8 chipset.The device is codenamed Motorola "Frontier," with a few similarities to the Motorola Edge X30.Motorola used to manufacture smartphones that mostly were nothing to write home about until it released the flagship Motorola Edge+ in early 2020. The company could be stepping up its flagship efforts with a future device that appears to have crazy specs and internals.According to the German website TechnikNews, Motorola is already working on a next-generation flagship device, which looks like a worthy challenger to the best Android phones arriving this year. Codenamed "Frontier," the upcoming smartphone is said to have a 200MP main sensor built by Samsung.Motorola was rumore...

This week, Ara, Nick, Jeramy, and Chris Wedel survey the smartwatch landscape and offer suggestions on the best ones for fitness. They also talk about Samsung's blown Exynos 2200 launch schedule, Spotify's blown lossless streaming, and how a judge has dealt a blow to Meta regarding an FTC lawsuit.Listen nowSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: AudioSubscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:Samsung misses its initial Exynos 2200 launch schedule — here's why | Android CentralSpotify delays its long-awaited feature for premium users indefinitely | Android CentralJudge deals a blow to Meta, allows FTC antitrust lawsuit to move forward | Android CentralGoogle Nest speakers are losing this handy feature due to Sonos ruling | Android CentralPopulation: One developers roll out the fix to the communications issue | Android CentralNew Android 13 features could make your lock screen more useful | Android CentralFuture Wear OS smartwatches will fina...

Best answer: Google Stadia launched in 2019 as a way for players to access the games they love without needing a console or dedicated gaming PC. Since its initial launch, Stadia's modest amount of playable games continues to grow, with a ton of new titles available in the months to come and many more on the horizon.Full Google Stadia game list (new titles in bold)A Place for the UnwillingARK: Survival Evolved Assassin's Creed Odyssey Assassin's Creed OriginsAssassin's Creed SyndicateAssassin's Creed UnityAssassin's Creed ValhallaAttack on Titan 2: Final BattleAVICII InvectorBaldur's Gate III Early AccessBloodstained: Ritual of the Night Borderlands 3Cake BashCelesteChronos: Before the AshesControl Ultimate Edition Cosmic Star HeroineCraytaCthulhu Saves ChristmasCyberpunk 2077Darksiders Genesis Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition Darksiders III The Darkside Detective The Darkside Detective: A Fumble in the DarkDead by DaylightDestiny 2Destroy All Humans...

Better value and better performance make Chrome OS tablets a no-brainer.While there are some great Android tablets out there, I don't know why you'd buy one outside a disposable Fire HD for your kid. Yes, seriously. Samsung may be better about updating its tablets nowadays, but they still aren't supported the way Chrome OS devices are. I've yet to see a "Productivity mode" on any tablet that holds a candle to Chrome OS, either.If you're in the market for a tablet and you want it to be something you could work off of for a few hours — or a few days while you wait on a replacement laptop or for your Macbook repairs to be done — you should be looking at Chromebook tablets like the HP Chromebook x2 11 and the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5. You'll save money, save headaches, and have a more versatile device.Don't believe me? Keep reading.Reason #1: 8 years of platform and security updatesSamsung is promising four years of security updates for most of its phones and tablets sold...

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a foldable phone with many promises. S Pen support makes it a natural choice for creators on the go who want to sketch out ideas wherever the muse strikes them. The improved durability and water resistance mean that you don't quite have to baby the Fold 3 the way you did the Fold 2 (just don't take it to the beach or the desert). Of course, you can bolster that protection with a great case, and these are the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 cases we've been able to find so far.Protect everythingSpigen Tough Armor Designed for Galaxy Z Fold 3 5GStaff PickMost Galaxy Z Fold 3 cases leave the phone's hinge totally exposed, but Spigen provides a few options with that extra bit of protection. The Tough Armor's version should still sit flat on a desk in tablet mode. It also offers a nice lip around the outer screen and the camera.$50 at AmazonGet the Note experienceSamsung S Pen Folio CoverWhile the Galaxy Z Fold 3 supports the S Pen, it doesn...

With so many great options to choose from, it can be hard to pick the best Android phone from AT&T's selection. However, if you're a little overwhelmed by all of the options and want some help determining which AT&T phone is the right for you — you've come to the right place. Here are some of the best AT&T phones available right now.Best overallGoogle Pixel 6Staff PickThe Pixel 6 is one of our favorite Android phones on any carrier, thanks to its flagship-tier performance and mid-range price tag. The customer CPU in this phone drives the 90Hz 2400x1080 display with ease and processes images in a snap with great colors and low-light performance. The Pixel 6 supports AT&T's current and upcoming 5G coverage and even supports Wi-Fi 6E.$20.56/mo. at AT&TBest overallSamsung Galaxy S21 UltraNeed a powerful Android phone that can do it all? Look no further than the Galaxy S21 Ultra. It has a big, brilliant 6.8-inch display, a Snapdragon 888 processor...

A Google executive teases future capabilities coming to Google TV.What you need to knowA Google executive discussed the company's plans for Google TV in the future.Google intends to integrate smart home, fitness, and video conferencing features into the interface.There's no fixed timeline yet, but these capabilities could arrive sometime this year.Google TV may soon be able to do more than just play movies and TV shows. Rob Caruso, Google TV's director of product management, has recently revealed what's next for the smart TV interface.In an interview with Protocol, Caruso said that Google wants to improve smart home controls on Google TV, citing as an example the recent updates that made it possible to access smart home controls via the power menu on the best Android phones.Another "big area of exploration" is fitness capabilities. Caruso teased the possible integration of Google's services and devices such as Google Fit and Fitbit as well as third-party systems into th...

You can view a lot with the Amazon Halo View, but do you want to?Fitness enthusiasts had mixed reactions to last year's Amazon Halo band, and it's clear that Amazon considered that when creating its new Amazon Halo View. Not only has the device changed, but Amazon also focuses on introducing new experiences to the Halo membership that helps users work out and nourish their bodies. So will it succeed?Some of the best fitness trackers out there offer well-rounded experiences without being tied to a membership program. While you get a year of Halo membership free with the purchase of your device, prepare to pay a monthly subscription fee after that. In some cases, you might still be able to enjoy plenty of features without opting for a paid membership.However, the Halo View becomes a shell of itself without the Halo membership. Non-members will only be able to log activity sessions and track their metrics such as heart rate, steps, calories burned, time awake/asleep, and sleep tem...

The best cases for the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra need to balance protection and profile, style and substance — and do it all without breaking the bank. The Note 20 Ultra is one of the most cutting-edge phones on the market, but it's also one of the largest and heaviest phones released in 2020. Combine that with the luxury price tag Samsung demands, and you have a recipe for disaster if you dare take your new phone out into the world naked. So skip the public smartphone indecency and get yourself a great case. Here are the best Galaxy Note 20 Ultra cases to keep it like new for years to come.Grippy and goodSpigen Liquid Air Armor Designed for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 UltraStaff PickWhile Spigen's Rugged Armor might be more popular, the Liquid Air is so much more appealing, both in hand with its deeper texturing and visually with a uniform look. It isn't nearly as bulky but still retains impressive sturdiness.$13 at AmazonRough and tumbleArmadilloTek Vanguard Series Case...

Ever since Samsung introduced the S Pen with its lineup of Note phones, the accessory has become a favorite for those who like to handwrite their digital notes. But the S Pen is about more than just writing letters; it gives a finer point for precise selection of items on the screen, and in some instances, it can be used to access device shortcuts. Samsung makes some of the best Android tablets, and these are the Galaxy tablets that support the S pen.Cream of the cropSamsung Galaxy Tab S7 Wi-FiStaff PickThe Galaxy Tab S7 brings excellent hardware and a fantastic software experience to fans of Android tablets. The S Pen performs wonderfully thanks to the 120Hz display, so all of your doodles flow effortlessly from the pen tip.$510 at Amazon$510 at Best Buy$499 at WalmartThin is inSamsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite with S PenIf you want a tablet with a premium build, thin design, and typical fantastic Samsung display but don't want to break the bank, then the Gala...

Samsung Health is the fitness tracking app pre-installed on the best Samsung Galaxy phones, and all things considered, it's pretty great! Whether you're using it in conjunction with a Samsung smartwatch like the Galaxy Watch 4 or on its own, the app has tools for tracking your daily activity, food, sleep, weight, and more. So if you need some help getting your profile put together and want to know how to set up Samsung Health, you've come to the right place.How to set up Samsung Health on your Galaxy phoneOpen the Samsung Health app on your Galaxy phone.Tap the circle icons if you agree to personalized health data processing and notifications (optional), then Continue.Tap Continue and Allow.Review the Processing of location information and then choose to Cancel or Agree.Tap the three lines in the upper-left corner.Tap Profile.Tap Gender.Tap Next.Select your birth date.Tap Next.Select your height.Tap Next.Select your weight.Tap Next.Tap the ⓘ icon to get mor...

Not everyone is having problems with their Pixel 6.The Pixel 6 bugs are pretty well-documented at this point. While the hardware is mostly great and a big improvement over previous Pixel models, the software experience has been pretty problematic for many Pixel 6 owners. That's a bummer, too, given how much Google hyped up the software side of things thanks to its new Tensor chipset powering the AI behind it all.Of course, no phone is perfect. Even the best Android phones have seen their fair share of problems, especially following the Android 12 update. That said, some users don't seem to be experiencing issues as often as others. For example, Android Central staff members who use the Pixel 6 seem to have fewer problems than those with the Pixel 6 Pro.We're wondering how this translates outside of our small test group. Do you own a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro? If so, have you experienced any of the major bugs?Has your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro experienced any problems recently?Pa...

House Select Committee says the tech giants provided "inadequate responses to prior requests for information."What you need to knowA subpoena was issued by the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack to four major technology companies.Alphabet, Meta, Twitter, and Reddit have been asked to provide more information about misinformation, domestic extremism, and efforts to influence the 2020 election.The Select Committee had previously requested those records, but claimed it had received insufficient responses.Parler was one of the social networking firms that bore much of the blame for the January 6 Capitol attack last year. Its mobile app was removed from the Google Play and Apple App Stores due to a lack of moderation and, more importantly, because supporters of former President Donald Trump used the platform to plan the violent riot.The big tech companies won't be spared from answering for their role in the horrible event as well. The House Select Commi...

Yae Miko is the new five-star Electro catalyst user, joining a growing roster of playable characters.Genshin Impact 2.4 may have just been released, but miHoYo is looking toward Update 2.5 over the next month, never content to just let one of the best Android games sit idle. Going by its update cadence, 2.5 should arrive around Feb. 16. Though miHoYo has only revealed one new playable character so far — Yae Miko — there are plenty of leaks that point to what players can expect in the upcoming update. Here's everything we know about Genshin Impact Update 2.5 so far.Genshin Impact Update 2.5: New characters headlined by Yae MikoYae Miko is confirmed to join the growing roster as a playable character in Update 2.5. She was first introduced in Update 2.0 as the Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine in Inazuma. Over the course of Chapter 2's Archon Quest, players learned she's an old friend of the Raiden Shogun and can take on the form of a fox.Yae Miko: Yae Miko is a five-sta...

If the only thing you liked about Stardew Valley was the fishing, then this is the perfect game for you.I don't know what it is about giant space whales that so deeply resonates with me, but as soon as I see one in any video game, I'm in it for the long haul. That's how Fishing Paradiso managed to hook me, with a celestial whale informing my spirit that I've and gone to heaven. Great news, right? Well, heaven's cool and all, but is it really as cool as you personally would like? Maybe there's a way that you can mold heaven into your own perfect paradise?The bizarre setup was interesting enough, but what ultimately reeled me in (pun intended) were the gorgeous pixel graphics, the story, and the absolutely wonderful soundtrack. Don't be surprised when you see Fishing Paradiso show up on our list of best Android games soon.After landing squarely in heaven, your silent protagonist gets a narrative guide in the form of Birdy, a peppy little blue bird who takes you under its wing...

The new features announced at CES 2022 are a good start, but why can't we have Fast Pair and Nearby Share on every device?Whether it's iMessage integration in macOS, quick file sharing via AirDrop, or the instant pairing of AirPods, the advantages of buying into Apple's ecosystem across multiple device categories are clear. Yet despite Google's dominance in mobile around the world and the growing popularity of Chromebooks and Android TV, the company hasn't been able to offer as seamless an experience when using all these devices alongside each other.That's about to change in 2022, as Google looks to make the disparate parts of its ecosystem work better together — and to integrate more closely with Windows offer Apple-like functionality between phone and computer.At CES 2022 earlier this month, Google announced a raft of new features designed to plug this vital ecosystem gap, with the main focus on Android and fast pairing. The new features are far-reaching: Everything from ...

You mean... you're not tired of listening to Baby Shark?What you need to knowBaby Shark is the first YouTube video to surpass 10 billion views.The video was a massive hit in 2016 and went viral thanks to its cute tune and dance challenge.Despacito remains the second most-viewed YouTube video with 7.7 billion views.You thought it was over, but it's still going strong. That's right, "Baby Shark" continues to invade our homes as the video becomes the first to reach 10 billion views on YouTube. 10. Billion.That's a lot of doo doo doo doo doo doos.According to Billboard, the video reached the milestone on Thursday, January 13. It furthers its lead ahead of your other favorite song, "Despacito" by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, which is the second most-viewed video with 7.7 billion views.Since its release in 2016, the song has gained tons of popularity from kids and adults — who obviously weren't forced to replay it repeatedly at the behest of their children — and spurred...

T-Mobile is the latest U.S. carrier to extend the One UI 4 update.What you need to knowT-Mobile rolls out One UI 4 based on Android 12 to the Galaxy Note 20 series.The update brings new privacy features and visual enhancements.The Note 20 series is the latest to receive One UI 4 in the United States.While Android 13 slowly creeps into our minds, OEMs are still managing with the Android 12 update. Samsung, which is seemingly on a roll, continues to impress with its speedy update cadence. Now, more T-Mobile subscribers are getting in on the fun, with the Galaxy Note 20 series finally receiving the One UI 4 (Android 12) update.This morning, multiple Android Central staff received the Android 12 update on their Samsung devices, including the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra.It's notable because T-Mobile seemed to be the last of the best U.S. wireless carriers to jump the on the Android 12 train for the Note 20 series, after Verizon and then reportedly AT&T beat it to the punch. Unl...

Unexpected price increases aren't fun.What you need to knowNetflix has raised its prices on Friday for new subscribers.Current subscribers will also be affected by the price change "in the coming weeks."Plans are going up by $1 to $2 per month depending on the plan.Netflix raised the prices of its plans on Friday for U.S. and Canadian subscribers in a move that seemingly came out of nowhere.In a report from Reuters, the company is raising prices from $1 to $2 per month depending on which plan you're on. The basic plan now costs $9.99, with the standard plan and premium plan going for $15.49 and $19.99 per month, respectively. In Canada, the respective prices are $9.99 CAD, $16.49 CAD, and $20.99 CAD. Netflix was quick to update its U.S. pricing page.Netflix didn't immediately respond to our request for comment on the increase. However, a spokesperson explained the increase for We understand people have more entertainment choices than ever and we're committed to de...

Anti-competitive business practices are at the heart of the probe.What you need to knowThe FTC and several states are investigating possible non-competitive business practices at Meta's Oculus division.The probe looks to be investigating the low price of the Oculus Quest 2, in addition to claims by several software developers that Meta stole ideas without properly compensating them.This probe comes as two other major FTC investigations have been opened into Meta's business practices.Meta looks to be having a bad week as Bloomberg reports that the FTC has opened yet another probe into what it calls anti-competitive business practices. Earlier this week, the FTC opened a probe regarding anti-competitive practices for its Instagram and Whatsapp acquisitions, but this time the new probe focuses on the company's Oculus business division.The FTC and a group of states, led by New York, are questioning VR developers who have created Oculus apps for the Quest platform, which inclu...

Pixel 6 owners are finally getting in on the fun.Update, Jan 14 (3:30 p.m. ET): Now arriving on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out the January update for its Pixel smartphones.The security patch includes a number of bug fixes, including the Microsoft Teams emergency calling bug.The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will receive the update later this month.The latest Pixel update is rolling out now, bringing with it the January security patch and a host of bug fixes to some of Google's best Android phones like the Pixel 5a. This marks the first update of the year for Pixel smartphones, although Pixel 6 owners will have to wait a bit longer before they can get their hands on it.The most notable fix addresses the mysterious Microsoft Teams bug that prevented users from making emergency calls. The app was already updated to address this problem, but Google is issuing its own system-wide update, which should hopefully prevent this problem from surfa...

The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra will challenge the iPad Pro — if you can stomach the notch.What you need to knowWinFuture has leaked specs for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8, S8+, and S8 Ultra.All three tablets will have Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoCs, Android 12, quad speakers, QHD 120Hz displays, 8GB of base RAM, expandable storage slots, and S Pen support.The S8+ will upgrade from the S8's 11-inch LCD to 12.4-inch AMOLED, matching the S7 series.The 14.6 S8 Ultra will be the only model with a 16GB RAM option.We've known for some time that Samsung would announce the Galaxy S22 at an Unpacked event in early February. Now, rumors suggest that it will simultaneously announce the Galaxy Tab S8 lineup at the same event.WinFuture has laid bare all of the Galaxy Tab S8 specs you need to know. And based solely on the hardware, they'll immediately supplant the S7 series as the best Android tablets available.The Galaxy Tab S8 series will use the top-class Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and 8GB of RAM, where...

NVIDIA updated its Shield TV consoles in 2019, and the new tube and Pro models are still the best Android streaming devices for gamers. There are so many great ways to play games on your Shield, from the growing collection of the best Android games as well as AAA PC games streamed through NVIDIA's GeForce NOW service. If you want a controller or two for some couch multiplayer, you'll be happy to know that alongside its own excellent controller, the NVIDIA Shield TV offers Bluetooth support for other great gaming controllers.Specially designed by NVIDIANVIDIA Shield Controller - AndroidStaff PickThe NVIDIA Shield controller is designed to take full advantage of all that the NVIDIA Shield can do, with a built-in microphone for Google Assistant and a headphone jack, along with dedicated volume and Android system controls. It was released alongside the 2017 edition for the Shield TV but still works with the new model.$60 at AmazonRetro gaming bliss8Bitdo SN30 Pro Bluetoot...

Apple can keep its precious iMessage exclusive to iPhone.What you need to knowWe asked our readers if they would like iMessage on Android or RCS support for iPhones.76.5% think Apple should adopt RCS support in iMessage.Remaining votes are in favor of Apple bringing iMessage to Android.Apple's iMessage has been a hot topic once again in the Android space after the company was called out for using its messaging app as a "bullying" tactic. Google exec Hiroshi Lockheimer once again invited Apple to adopt RCS, which he calls the "industry standard for modern messaging," instead of creating an iMessage app for Android.This week, we asked our readers if they would prefer Apple to create iMessage for the best Android phones or if the company should support RCS for better interoperability when texting Android smartphones. Out of more than 2700 responses, over 75% voted that they would rather Apple bring RCS support to its app.One reader, deltatux, notes how neither of Apple o...

Twitter now allows all hosts on Android and iOS to record their Space for future listening.What you need to knowTwitter Spaces rolled out the ability for everyone to save a discussion on Android and iOS.Only hosts have the ability to record a Space, and the recording is only available for 30 days.Participants will see a visual indicator when a Space is being recorded.Before the end of 2021, Twitter managed to sneak in a new feature that makes it possible for Spaces hosts to save their discussion for future use. However, that capability was rolled out only to a handful of users on Android and iOS.That changes now with a new update to the feature. Twitter now lets anyone hosting a Space using their best Android phones to record their audio chat. This capability is also available to everyone on iOS as long as they are the host, though listeners can also record a Space using a third-party application.Now you never have to miss out on a Space! Some hosts on iOS have the opti...

Best answer: No, the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are not compatible with an iPhone. Since Samsug switched to the Google-based Wear OS from Tizen, it needs to connect to an Android-powered smartphone in order to work.What are the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic?The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are Samsung's latest entries into the smartwatch world. Launched in summer 2021, both feature similar internals, most notably Samsung's Wear OS, along with plenty of RAM, generous battery life, IP68 water-resistant rating, and a range of connectivity options, including LTE, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and GPS.They differ mainly in look, with the Galaxy Watch 4 boasting an aluminum design while the slightly more expensive Galaxy Watch 4 Classic comes in stainless steel and adds a handy rotating bezel, making it the flagship option in the line.Both can be used to track a myriad of health and fitness stats, from daily steps and activities to sleep, heart rate, and Sp02,...

Google's Nest Wifi router and point are popular mesh Wi-Fi solutions thanks to their compact size, solid speeds, and great software. The key to building a strong and efficient mesh system is to place the nodes in the most optimal places in your home. This sometimes means you won't have a good place to put the node, and leaving it on the floor is bad for signal. These great Nest Wifi mounts can help keep your home tidy while improving your signal and home network performance.Maximize your spaceWasserstein AC Outlet MountStaff pickWasserstein's AC Outlet Mount requires a bit more assembly than others since you'll need to remove the existing outlet cover plate. Once installed, however, this mount is capable of holding your Nest WiFi or anything weighing seven pounds without putting a single hole in your drywall. Best of all, you'll still have easy access to the other outlet after the cable has been stowed away.$9 at AmazonSimple bracketDelidigi Wall Mount Bracket...

Android's dynamic theming system will get even better later this year with more colorful options.What you need to knowGoogle could introduce at least four new dynamic themes with Android 13.A separate leak also gives us our first look at Android 13's new notification permissions. The first Android 13 developer build is expected to be released sometime later this quarter. Back in June last year, Google rolled out a new wallpaper theming system called "Monet" to its best Android phones with Android 12 Beta 2. The feature changes the system colors and accents to match the wallpaper that you've set. According to a report from Android Police, Android 13 will bring new and more colorful styles for the dynamic theming system.The new color combinations, which are said to be under active development, are currently called TONAL_SPOT, VIBRANT, EXPRESSIVE, and SPRITZ. While TONAL_SPOT offers the dynamic theming system's default Material You color palette, VIBRANT is said to offer sli...

While the plastic back of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is more durable and forgiving than the glass back on its predecessors, no phone comes out of the box fully defended against the horrors of the concrete jungle (well, except some outdated Cat and Doogee phones). While most seek out Galaxy S21 FE cases that are slim and shiny, we prefer cases made of stronger stuff. These heavy duty Galaxy S21 FE cases shall defend your new phone to the end.Battle-testedSupcase Unicorn Beetle Pro SeriesStaff PickUsers with Unicorn Beetle Pro cases have had phones survive cars, multi-story drops, and even a couple of lawnmowers, though as with any extreme circumstance, your mileage will vary. The kickstand is also super useful.$25 at AmazonClearly ruggedUAG Plasma Series Samsung Galaxy S21 FE CaseUAG's only selling the Pathfinder — the solid version of this case — in black, so why not get the clear Plasma and show off that lovely Lavender Galaxy S21 FE while enjoying the same pr...

Your new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 features some of the latest smartphone technologies, so it's no wonder you want to enjoy the newer and higher-tech wireless charging pads rather than fuss around with USB cables. Galaxy Z Fold 3's size makes it a unique challenge to charge, though, as it won't fit well on many of our favorite chargers when it's in the unfolded position. With that in mind, we've picked out the best wireless chargers to suit the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and its various postures.Spacious chargingSamsung Wireless Charger Trio PadStaff PickYour Galaxy Z Fold 3 is flexible, so your wireless charging pad should be, too. The Samsung Wireless Charger Trio Pad offers a bunch of flexibility for how much you charge and where you set it. Plus, it comes with its own power adapter.$90 at Amazon$90 at Best Buy$90 at SamsungDouble upMoshi Sette Q 15W Dual PadThe Moshi Sette Q is a stylish pad that provides room for your Galaxy Z Fold, whether it's open or closed. Wi...

The best Chromebooks have keyboards with great tactile feedback, but if you're going to be typing on a Chromebook at a desk for hours and hours on end, consider swapping to a mechanical keyboard. Not only will using a separate keyboard help you avoid neck strain by letting you move your Chromebook up to a higher position, but mechanical keyboards are longer-lasting and offer better feedback for your fingers to ensure that you're hitting the right key every time. These are the best mechanical keyboards to use with your Chromebook today, tomorrow, and for years to come.Tiny but mightyDIERYA DK61E 60%Staff PickThis compact keyboard won't take up much desk space, but it still gives you all the comforts and choices, with four switch types available, USB-C rather than USB-A, and a spill-resistant circuit board.$50 at AmazonBest for the officeDas Keyboard Model S ProfessionalDas's keyboards have been highly regarded for years, and the Model S is a no-nonsense full-size m...

Finding an Android smartwatch that meets all your needs isn't always easy, especially if you've got big plans for your wearable. The Amazfit smartwatch lineup may not be as massive or popular as some other big names such as Fitbit and Garmin, but it's still impressive. Additionally, these watches are some of the most affordable options out there. The Amazfit GTS 3 stands out as the best Amazfit smartwatch for many reasons. It's attractive, easy to use, reasonably priced, and packed with key features. If it's not for you, there are some other great options to pick from.Best overall: Amazfit GTS 3When you're searching for a robust lifestyle smartwatch that's also equipped with solid fitness tracking and smart features, the Amazfit GTS 3 is the best Amazfit smartwatch you can buy. It looks similar to the GTS 2 Mini but it comes in a larger case. It also cuts back on the bezel, so you get a larger display area. The rotating crown allows for smooth and easy UI navigation, too. As is...

Games like Resident Evil Village or Spider-Man VR would give Sony's new headset a running start.Horizon Call of the Mountain for Playstation VR2After years of waiting, the Playstation VR2 is on the way, with premium 4K+ 120Hz OLED lenses powered by the full might of the PS5. We'll learn more about the hardware as we approach its rumored fall 2022 release, but what'll really drive PS VR2 sales isn't specs: it's Sony-exclusive PS VR2 games.So far, we know of just one PS VR2 game: Horizon Call of the Mountain, a spinoff of third-person action-adventure game Horizon Forbidden West from two Playstation Studios developers. We also know that Sony will follow the path of the original PSVR and support "hybrid AAA" VR ports of popular games, such as Resident Evil 7 and Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim. And third-party studios will likely create their own VR spinoffs of popular games, like Hitman 3 for PSVR.Based on that info, we can already predict which of the best PS5 games could port over ...