Feed androidcentral Android Central RSS Feed

Favorite IconAndroid Central RSS Feed

Link https://www.androidcentral.com/
Feed http://www.androidcentral.com/rss.xml
Updated 2024-11-28 02:45
Keep your Oculus Quest controllers going strong with these batteries
The Touch Controllers for the Oculus Quest 2 ship with one disposable AA battery each, but once those run out of juice, you should invest in the best Oculus Quest 2 replacement batteries to fill in for them. While the Touch Controllers last much longer than the headset's limited battery, it's still wise to invest in some rechargeable batteries or a stack of disposable batteries to stop your VR sessions from getting disrupted. Here are the batteries and chargers we recommend for your Oculus Touch controllers.Best rechargable batteries + chargerPanasonic K-KJ55MCA4BA 3 Hour Quick Charger with 4 AA eneloop Rechargeable BatteriesStaff PickThese rechargeable batteries store up to 2,000 mAh of power and can be recharged up to 2,100 times. They can be charged completely from dead or partially charged without damaging the energy storage memory. We recommend buying them with the quick charger accessory, which will get your AAs recharged in no time, but you can also purchase the ba...
New Roku 4K and 4K+ streaming sticks available starting at $50
Better, faster, strongerWhat you need to knowRoku announced updates to its lineup of streaming devices, as well as an update to Roku OS 10.5The All-New Roku Streaming Stick 4K starts at $50, while the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ starts at $70.The company also gave the Roku Ultra LT set-top box a spec bump with improvements to the processor, storage, and Wi-Fi range.Roku has announced several important updates to its product lineup, as well as an improved user experience (UI) with its Roku OS 10.5 rollout. The streaming platform and device manufacturer has unveiled an All-New Roku Streaming Stick 4K and 4K+, spec bumps to its Roku Ultra LT set-top box, and overall platform enhancements to the underlying operating system.The updated Streaming Stick 4K boots up 30% faster than before and adds Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Wi-Fi speeds up to two times faster than previous models.The Streaming Stick 4K+ features all of the above but adds the Roku Voice Remote Pro. The Pro version o...
How to to enable Alexa's adaptive volume feature on an Echo device
Do you ever try to ask Alexa a question on your Echo speaker from across the room and get frustrated when you can't hear her response? Whether it's the noises coming from the TV, people talking, dogs barking, babies crying, or the general commotion of your day-to-day life, sometimes it can be hard to hear her. Thankfully, Amazon has recognized this problem and added a simple toggle that lets Alexa adjust the volume of her responses based on the ambient noise near your Echo device. We'll show you how simple it is to enable Alexa's new adaptive volume feature on your Echo devices so that you don't miss any of her replies or responses in the future.How to enable Alexa's adaptive volume feature on an Echo deviceOpen the Amazon Alexa app on your phone.Tap on the More menu at the bottom right-hand corner of the screen.Scroll down and tap on Settings.Scroll down and tap on Voice Responses in the Alexa Preferences section.Tap to toggle on Adaptive Volume.You can also enable o...
The Google Pixel 6 has been spotted at the FCC ahead of fall launch
The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro are one step closer to launch.What you need to knowA device purported to be the Pixel 6 was spotted in FCC documents.The documents reveal connectivity options for the device, including Wi-Fi 6E and mmWave 5G.Wireless power transfer and UWB support are also listed in the filings.The Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro have likely been spotted passing through the FCC as the device nears its fall launch window.While the documents don't specifically name the Pixel 6, Android Police points out that devices are listed as "phone," suggesting that they're likely Google's upcoming flagships. Additionally, the documents show support for both the new Wi-Fi 6E standard with mmWave 5G support found on a few of the models.For comparison, the Google Pixel 5a does not support either connectivity option, so it's fairly safe to assume that we're looking at the Pixel 6.In recent promotional material for the Pixel 6, Google has made sure to note that the device "has not been...
Indian antitrust regulators accuse Google of abusing Android's dominance
The regulators say Google's restrictive trade practices have harmed both device makers and consumers.What you need to knowThe Competition Commission of India has accused Google of adopting anti-competitive and restrictive trade practices in the mobile OS market.The regulator's probe found Google guilty of stifling competition to maintain its dominance in search, app library, and other services. It has also alleged that Google's Play Store policies are biased and arbitrary. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has found Google guilty of abusing its dominant position in the country's mobile operating system market. The Indian antitrust regulator began its investigation of Google in 2019.The investigation report, reviewed by The Times of India, says Google stifles competition and innovation in the market by forcing one-sided contracts on both device and app makers. Google requires manufacturers to sign a Mobile Application Distribution Agreement (MADA), which mandates p...
Don't be the only one with a potato webcam for those video conference calls
If you're doing a lot of video calls and meetings, you probably want to invest in a webcam. While they aren't as difficult to find in stores now as they were a year ago, they are still in pretty high demand with so many people working from home at least some of the time. Slowly but surely, webcams are coming back in stock. But you don't want to settle on buying anything you can find - you need it to work well. So, we have rounded up the best webcams available on Amazon right now.Trusted brandLogitech C920x HD Pro WebcamStaff PickIn the webcam world, Logitech is one of the most trusted brands, and while this webcam will cost almost twice as much as some of the others, it's worth the price. You get full 1080p resolution along with stereo audio, HD light correction and autofocus, and even the ability to blur your background without any additional equipment.$90 at Amazon$65 at WalmartBuilt-in ring lightVitade 960ATrying to get proper lighting can be tricky beca...
The best external hard drives for the PlayStation 4
PlayStation 4 owners have no shortage of choice when it comes to storage expansion. Popping out the internal drive is fairly easy, but if you don't want to go through the trouble, there's an alternative that's much more convenient. Just plug a USB hard drive into your PS4, and you'll instantly have all the storage you could ever need. All you need is to pick the right drive for your needs. Here are some solid options for the best PS4 external hard drives available for you today. Keep in mind that the PS4 supports up to 8TB of external storage.Best in size and reliabilitySeagate Game Drive 2TBStaff PickThis Seagate drive is super thin and can fit just about anywhere. Not only that, but it's officially licensed by PlayStation and has a perfect design that will fit right in. This edition comes with 2TB, but for a bit more, you can bump up to 4TB.$70 at Amazon$70 at Best BuyBest in massive storageWD 5TB My Passport Portable External HDDWestern Digital's portable opti...
Google Meet on the web uses AI to automatically brighten dark videos
Google Meet makes it easier to see more people.Update, Sept 20 (12:15 p.m. ET): Google rolls out low-light detection for webWhat you need to knowGoogle Meet is rolling out with an updated design and new features.Participants will have the ability to pin presentations or speaker tiles with more room to show everyone on the call.Google is also rolling out low-light mode for the web application, a new data saver, and the ability to hide your own video from your view.Google Meet has been a big focus since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic since many people transitioned to work-from-home lifestyles. Google has continuously rolled out updates to the video conferencing application, making it easier to manage while working from home. For instance, now you can use Google Meet's virtual green room to check yourself before a call. The latest update adds some useful tools thanks to the power of AI and more efficient design tools to keep users engaged with everyone on the call.In...
Get ready for the future with the best 5G phones you can buy today
New technology works best when everyone commits to it, and in 2021, 5G has gone from marketing hype to a legit feature. In other words, you'll want to find the best 5G phones to future-proof yourself. A ton of support from carriers and smartphone companies is going to flood the market with 5G-capable phones this year. 5G isn't everywhere (yet), but if you live in a place with a 5G network, these are the best 5G phones you can buy, although the Galaxy S21 Ultra tops our list.Best 5G phone overall: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5GThe Galaxy S21 Ultra is the first proper flagship of 2021, and looking ahead, it'll be mighty hard for any company to dethrone the S21 Ultra as one of the best Android phones of the entire year.Samsung got so much right with this thing, and it all starts with the display. The S21 Ultra packs a massive 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel that can hit a max resolution of 3200x1440. Unlike last year's S20 Ultra, you can run the display in that Quad HD setting with...
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 drop test proves it's the most durable foldable yet
The phone's inner screen can take quite a bit of damage.What you need to knowA new drop test video shows just how durable Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3 really is.Both displays of the phone remain fully functional even after being dropped ten times. The phone's hinge also impresses with its strong durability. Last month, a durability test video from JerryRigEverything showed that while the Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a solid improvement over the Galaxy Z Fold 2, its screen isn't quite as durable as Samsung claims.Now, Samsung's best foldable phone has now been put through its paces by PhoneBuff in a new video. As you can see in the video below, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 survives the first drop largely unscathed.The phone's cover display cracks on its second drop, but it still remains fully functional. The inner screen, on the other hand, proves to be a lot more impressive.Even when the phone was dropped from 1.5 meters with the screen unfolded, it didn't cause the 7.6-inch panel to c...
Which Philips Hue white light bulb should I get?
Best answer: Philips Hue White and White Ambiance are both smart light bulbs that produce white light. The difference is that while Philips Hue White is set at a single warm white color temperature, Philips Hue White Ambiance bulbs offer 50,000 shades of natural white light.What's the difference between Philips Hue White and White Ambiance bulbs?Though the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance is the best Philips Hue bulb to get, not everyone needs 16 million color options for their home lighting. That's where white light bulbs like the Philips Hue White and White Ambiance come in.You'll find no difference between these two light bulbs when it comes to smart features or capabilities, and both can be dimmed to create brighter or lower lighting. The main distinction is that Philips Hue White light bulbs emit only one shade of white: a soft white light at 2700K. The Philips Hue White Ambiance, on the other hand, lets you pick among a wide temperature range of white light that goes ...
Find out what the weather is going to bring with the best weather apps
Check to see if you need an umbrellaIn today's world, we've gotten used to seeing the weather change with little notice — and sometime no notice at all. From flash floods and hurricanes to knowing precisely how ungodly hot it is outside, having a trusty weather app on your side can make all the difference. There are a lot of options to choose from if you're looking for the best weather apps for Android, and we've rounded up some of our favorites here.The top 3 apps1. Accuweather2. Today Weather3. 1WeatherMore optionsYahoo WeatherRadarscopeOverdropFluxAppy WeatherMyRadar Weather RadarThese are the best Android weather appsIt's easy to understand why Accuweather is one of the best Android apps after you download it. All of your pertinent information is laid out in an easy-to-view interface, while MinuteCast offers some of the most reliable notifications for when the rain is about to start, or stop.Today Weather is a beautiful application that makes it e...
Google's first foldable Pixel phone may arrive sooner than you think
The "Pixel Fold" could be unveiled as soon as next month.What you need to knowGoogle's foldable Pixel phone will launch before the end of the year, if a new rumor is to be believed.The phone is codenamed Passport and is expected to be powered by Google's in-house developed Tensor chipset. It is likely that the device will debut alongside the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.Google's first foldable Pixel phone could be here sooner than expected, according to reliable leaker Evan Blass. The leaker claims to have heard from a trusted source that Google is planning to launch the device before the end of the year.Heard from someone I trust that the foldable Pixel -- codename: Passport, retail branding: unknown -- will indeed launch before the end of the year. Apparently they've been working on this device for over two years, and if the P6 is any indication, it'll be worth a look.— E (@evleaks) September 20, 2021Google has apparently been working on the foldable device for over tw...
Ruining a phone is still too easy on Android despite all of its improvement
The many reasons I love Android are the same reasons many find it difficult.As someone who has used Android since the original Motorola Droid from 2009, I've seen plenty of operating system iterations over the years — even going so far as the treacherous process of rooting and installing ROMs to get as much as I could from my phones. But Android has come a long way since the OG Droid, and for the vast majority of people — it's great. However, even with its improvements throughout the years, I still have to fix an Android phone or help someone execute seemingly simple tasks on their device. These daily occurrences showcase both the wonderful openness of Android and its downfalls. Phones bogged down because an app is accessing more than it should is a problem on modern flagships as much as it is on underpowered devices.Google has worked hard to find ways to make its operating system more accessible and safer. Sure there was a time when Android wasn't as secure as it should...
OnePlus, even joined with OPPO, will struggle to compete with Samsung
OPPO's now sub-brand OnePlus could try to take on Samsung's budget phone market after its integration, but experts say becoming a viable competitor to Samsung is a "stretch." They add the hope is now maybe the partnership will help OnePlus scale up marketing dollars and manufacturing scale, which Samsung has excelled in.In a briefing with reporters, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau detailed further what the integration between the company and OPPO would look like. He said that OnePlus' next flagship phone, slated for early 2022 and likely called the OnePlus 10, will have a newly integrated OS between OnePlus' OxygenOS and OPPO's ColorOS, and that throughout 2022 OnePlus will update a subset of its existing phones to that new, as-yet-unnamed software.Internal documents viewed by Android Central showed the new breakdown of OnePlus' smartphone portfolio by series and region. For higher-end phones, the company will launch new flagship series phones globally, with a new R series phones (regional ...
Every character in Apex Legends Mobile
Time to go mobile.Apex Legends Mobile is an upcoming mobile version of Electronic Arts and Respawn Entertainment's hugely successful free-to-play shooter, Apex Legends. The game is still a ways off, but pre-registration is open, and we have a good idea of what to expect, including some of the characters that'll be available in Apex Legends Mobile. If handled well, it could end up being one of the best Android games available.We don't technically have an exact list of the characters available. With that in mind, EA states that some of the original cast from when Apex Legends first launched will be in Apex Legends Mobile. There's also a handful of characters featured in the promotional materials, so it seems extremely likely those featured Legends will be in at launch.It's also important to note that these characters may play a bit differently than in the console and PC versions of Apex Legends. Their abilities might be balanced a bit differently, or they could have different one...
OnePlus and OPPO are creating a unified OS: Eight key questions answered
Global OnePlus and OPPO phones will run a unified OS that's debuting with the OnePlus 10 series.OnePlus has seen upward momentum over the last 18 months; the introduction of the Nord series catalyzed sales in key markets, the OnePlus 9 series continues to be among the best Android phones, and the Chinese manufacturer is making inroads into the North American budget market with the Nord N series.For the last seven years, OnePlus' differentiator has been the software. Its phones use similar hardware to Chinese rivals Xiaomi, Vivo, Huawei, and others, so OnePlus turned to OxygenOS to create a software experience that's one of the best on Android. The software has also seen several changes over the course of the last year — OxygenOS 11 introduced a bolder design aesthetic, and earlier this year, OnePlus announced that it was merging OxygenOS with OPPO's ColorOS codebase to streamline its software efforts following the manufacturer's integration with OPPO.Now, OnePlus and OPPO are...
Here's everything PlayStation's Sony Worldwide Studios is working on
Sony's veritable army of developers are working on a new slate of games for the PS5.The newest generation of PlayStation gaming is in full swing, with the arrival of the PS5. Sony acquired and closed multiple studios over the last few years, leading to an interesting reshuffle for the following lineup. From bringing in the longtime partners at Insomniac Games to closing down teams like Manchester Studio, PlayStation is a different entity now than it was when starting the PS4 generation back in 2013.With a new generation comes new games, including some of the best PS5 games available. This is a list of everything we know about what the leading 13 development studios at Sony Worldwide Studios are currently working on, or are at least fairly certain to be developing for PS5, PSVR, and possibly PC down the road.Current Sony studios, primary and supportSIE Bend StudioFirespriteGuerrilla GamesHousemarqueInsomniac GamesSIE London StudioMalaysia StudioMedia MoleculeNaughty...
Dust is only half the battle, so a robot vacuum with a mop is a must
You could set the highest-suction, thickest-bristled vacuum in one spot to work for a minute straight, but if it's working on a dried-in spill or some really stubborn mud, it's probably never going to get the job done. While vacuums can suck up loose debris, there's no getting past the need to get your floors wet and give them a good scrub. Fortunately, just as robot vacuums have come to take the task of cleaning up dust and hair off your hands, mop attachments for quality robot vacuums can let them expand their ability to give your floors a complete cleaning.The typical robot vacuum has a few spinning bristles that help direct dust, dirt, and other debris into the center where it gets sucked up. Though that can do a little bit of work to loosen up some lightly stuck-on messes, you'll probably find over time that your floors start to look dirty even though they may feel clean. The dried-in spills and tracks from wet shoes (especially if you're coming in from snow that's been treate...
Google's second Galaxy Z Fold 3 contender could launch with Android 12.1
Google could be working on two foldable phones to take on Samsung.What you need to knowGoogle is reportedly working on another foldable phone with Android 12.1.The rumored device, codenamed "Jumbojack," is in addition to the Pixel Fold that's expected to debut later this year.Jumbojack will supposedly have the same split-screen method as Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3.Google might release another foldable phone soon after announcing the rumored Pixel Fold. Hints of the foldable device, dubbed "Jumbojack," were spotted in the rumored Android 12.1 mid-cycle update by 9to5Google.According to code allegedly discovered in Android 12.1, the upcoming Pixel foldable phone will feature two displays that will presumably function similarly to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3. This means that even when the device is folded, the second screen will be accessible.It's possible that the second foldable Pixel will be unveiled before the release of Android 12.1. The device may also include new featu...
Surface Duo 2 FCC listing promises a major upgrade over its predecessor
The listing reveals connectivity and charging features that were not available on the original Surface Duo.What you need to knowMicrosoft's upcoming Surface Duo 2 has been spotted in an FCC filing.The listing indicates the upcoming Android device will support 5G, NFC, Wi-Fi 6, and a type of wireless charging probably for a Surface Pen.Microsoft is expected to unveil its Galaxy Z Fold 3 challenger on September 22.Microsoft is planning an event on September 22 to unveil the upcoming Surface Duo 2 and other Surface devices. Ahead of the unveiling, the dual-screen device has made a pit stop at the Federal Communications Commission, with a slew of information pointing to a promising upgrade over its predecessor.The FCC filing reveals a few connectivity improvements for the device including support for 5G networks, Wi-Fi 6 standard, NFC, and Ultra-wideband capabilities, as spotted by Windows Central. The original Surface Duo lacked these features.While most of these details c...
Google Pixel 6 Pro might actually charge faster than most Samsung flagships
Google looks set to give the Pixel line its fastest charging speeds yet.What you need to knowNew regulatory labels have been spotted, listing the charging speeds for the Google Pixel 6 Pro.The labels show 33W charging is likely to be featured on the Pixel 6 Pro.The Pixel 6 Pro is expected to feature a large battery, 23W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.Anticipation for the Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro heats up as rumors continue to swirl about the upcoming Android flagships. The latest tidbit appears to all but confirm the reported charging speeds of the Pixel 6 Pro.XDA-Developers appears to have gotten their hands on a regulatory label for the Pixel 6 Pro from the National Communications Commission in Taiwan, which is its equivalent to the FCC in the U.S.The label shows the rated charging speeds for the 6 Pro, listing 5V/3A (15W), 9V/2A (18W), 9V/3A (27W), and 11V/3A (33W). This would corroborate earlier reports that the Pixel 6 Pro may feature faster charg...
How to watch the 2021 Emmy Awards online from anywhere
Following an awards show that was mostly virtual last year, the 73rd Emmy Awards will once again be held in person albeit with a smaller number of nominees in attendance and we have all the details on how you can watch this year's Emmys on TV or online.The Primetime Emmy Awards are held each year to celebrate excellence in primetime television programming in the U.S. The awards show is run and voted on by members of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and while previous years have consisted of nominees from actual television, this year's lineup of nominees features more programs from streaming services than ever before.While Jimmy Kimmel hosted last year's Emmys, actor and stand-up comedian Cedric the Entertainer will be taking over the role for this year's awards show. This will be his first time hosting the Emmys but apparently he is a big television buff himself.When it comes to the nominees for the 2021 Emmy Awards, Netflix's The Crown and Disney's The Mandalorian...
How to watch Chiefs vs Ravens: Live stream NFL Sunday Night Football online
Two of the NFL's most well-regarded quarterbacks go head-to-head this evening as Patrick Mahomes's Chiefs travel to Baltimore to face Lamar Jackson's Ravens.Read on for full details on how to watch Chiefs vs Ravens, no matter where you are in the world.Baltimore will need to pick themselves off the floor for this match after falling cruelly short against the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday night.Having led 14-0, the Ravens began to crumble during an error-strewn conclusion, with the Raiders eventually clinching a dramatic 33-27 victory after Derek Carr threw a 31-yard touchdown pass to Zay Jones in overtime.There's likely to be a contrasting mood in the Chiefs following their 29-33 comeback victory against the Cleveland Browns last Sunday.Mahomes was on target throughout, throwing for 337 yards and providing three touchdowns, including a humongous 75-yard scoring toss to Tyreek Hill as Kansas came back from a 22-10 deficit at half-time.Read on as we explain below how to get a ...
PS5 restocks: Here are the latest PS5 stock updates & how to find one
PS5 stock is selling out fast, so be sure to have your credit card ready.Looking to buy a PS5? Well, so are millions of other people, and the stock levels we've seen so far are tight, even nearly a year after its launch. Every time a retailer puts stock up for sale, it sells out super quickly. The longest we've seen them stay in stock is maybe 15 to 20 minutes (usually just a few minutes, though), and that's at random times, so finding one for yourself can be a truly difficult task. Sony warned that it will be hard to find stock throughout the year and well into 2022, but retailers are promising more are coming, and Sony has secured additional semiconductor chips to make them.In our PS5 review, we called it a technical marvel with a groundbreaking controller. After spending a few months with it now, it's nearly impossible to go back to the PS4. Everything about the PS5 is better, from the games to the DualSense haptic feedback. You'll definitely want to experience it for yourself...
Android 12 is coming: Here's the latest info on when your phone will get it
We break down which phones will get Android 12 and our best-educated guesses as to when.Android 12 is on its way, and we couldn't be more excited. Google sent out the Release Candidate version of stock Android 12, meaning the next release will be the final version. Pixel owners can expect to get the official release within a month.Meanwhile, the limited One UI 4 beta has begun, so has the closed OxygenOS 12 closed beta. Smartphone makers are busy incorporating the Material You design and new features into their own Android skins.But you're here to determine which of the best Android phones will get Android 12 — and when. Companies haven't officially announced this information yet, and it will depend on how long it takes to iron out bugs in their respective betas. But we can extrapolate from previous years what to expect. Generally speaking, recent flagships are likely to see stable releases by the end of 2021, while older phones may have to wait until early-to-mid 2022....
These are the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 screen protectors
Finding the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 screen protector for your device will depend on a few important factors. First, you'll want to be sure you're choosing a product that matches your specific case size (40mm or 44mm). Next, decide what type of screen protector you want. Some popular options include tempered glass for the screen as well as protective cases for full coverage. We've put together a few of our favorites to help you choose.The best protectionSupershieldz Tempered Glass Screen Protector (3-Pack)Staff PickWhen you're looking for all-around protection, you'll want to consider this three-pack from Supershieldz. All the features you seek in a screen protector are present. You'll enjoy high-quality tempered glass for maximum scratch protection, high-definition clarity, and hydrophobic, as well as an oleophobic coating to reduce sweat and fingerprints.$8 at Amazon (44mm)$8 at Amazon (40mm)Amazing precisionSPGUARD Tempered Glass Screen Protector (3-Pack)...
From the Editor's Desk: Is Android 12 still too buggy?
Wait — is it really a surprise to find pre-release versions of Android aren't quite perfect yet?This past week, Samsung surprised many of us by dropping its first One UI 4 beta, based on Android 12, well ahead of the stable code drop from Google. At the time of writing, we're not expecting Pixel phones to get stable Android 12 until early October. As such, the early version available to Galaxy S21 owners right now is ... well, kind of a mess. Performance issues and bugs aplenty reveal that the current One UI 4 build is further away from stable status than previous Samsung betas, which on the whole have been relatively stable. So if you want to try Android 12 on Samsung's best Android phones, you might want to hold off for a more reliable build.The same pattern is apparent in the Android 12 public beta for Pixel phones. Fairly serious bugs remained right up to the current beta 5 build. And even that version still has obvious user-facing issues, like the broken "at a glance" widg...
God of War Ragnarok predictions: Story and character theories
Examining where the events of Ragnarok may take players.God of War Ragnarok, the next big game from Sony Santa Monica, is aiming to close out the Norse saga. While the prior game set up a lot of leads, there's still a lot that needs to happen and many iconic characters we haven't even seen yet. If you happen to be unfamiliar with the events leading up to Ragnarok, we have the full God of War timeline and history, which will give you the complete story so far.The 2018 God of War is one of my favorite games of the last several years and if what we've seen of God of War Ragnarok so far is any indicated, this sequel will be one of the best PS5 games available.As a big fan of both God of War and Norse mythology, I decided to analyze the first full trailer for God of War Ragnarok and make some predictions based on what we've seen. After all, the director of the game has confirmed that Ragnarok will feature as an actual event, but that doesn't mean this will be a straightforward story...
How to watch the UCI Road World Championships 2021: Live stream cycling act
The world's best cyclists roll into Flanders this week for a star-studded race befitting an event that is celebrating its centenary.Read on to find out how to get a UCI Road World Championships 2021 no matter where you are in the world.Marking the 100th anniversary of the first championships that took place in Denmark in 1921, this year's event is the first time the race has been held in Belgium for 19 years.After last year's event was scaled back due to the pandemic, its a return to Championships familiar jam-packed schedule for this year's edition, with the team time trial mixed relay, Under-23 and junior categories all returning.Defending road race champion Julian Alaphilippe will be lining up alongside the likes of top tier stars Tadej Pogacar and Peter Sagan, with Wout van Aert and Remco Evenepoel leading the hopes of the host nation.This year's race should also see keen British interest, with Olympic mountain bike champ Tom Pidcock lining up alongside former world cham...
Samsung Galaxy S21 and Note 20 phones pick up official Stadia support
You no longer have to play Stadia games in an experimental setup on Samsung's recent flagship phones and tablets.What you need to knowStadia is now compatible with more Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets in an official capacity.Samsung's Galaxy S21 and Note 20 devices as well as its recent tablets have gained Stadia support.There's no word on when Google's cloud gaming service will officially support Samsung's foldable devices.Google has expanded the list of devices that are compatible with Stadia. The cloud gaming service now officially supports some of the best Samsung phones, including the Galaxy S21 and Note 20 lineups.There are 11 additional Samsung devices joining the older Galaxy flagships in Stadia's official list of compatible devices. As reported by 9to5Google, these include the company's most recent high-end smartphones and tablets.Samsung Galaxy S21Samsung Galaxy S21+Samsung Galaxy S21 UltraSamsung Galaxy Note 20Samsung Galaxy Note 20 UltraSamsung Galax...
Chatting with your BFFs (or work)? Android 12 makes it easier.
The best Android phones are communication tools first and foremost. Whether used for phone calls, video chats, or direct messaging, these devices are perfect for starting conversations with contacts, friends, and family. One of the best new features in Android 12 is a way to stay on top of the conversations that are most important to you. The new Conversations widget allows you to pin a conversation you're having to a home screen so you can quickly access it (or multiple conversations, as the case may be). We'll show you how to set up this new Conversations widget and give you a few other notes we discovered along the way.How to use Conversation widgets in Android 12You can easily pin a conversation to your home screen by using the Conversations widget.Long press on an empty space on your home screen.Tap Widgets.Tap Conversations to expand the category.Tap and hold the Conversation widget. Drag it to an open place on your home screen.Pinch to (re)size the widget to your li...
How to fix PS4 controller jitters
One relatively common issue with PS4 DualShock controllers seems to be the jitters (thankfully, this doesn't appear to affect the PS5 DualSense). It's as if your controller has had too many cups of coffee. If you are experiencing this issue, you will find that input from your sticks (usually the left) will start to stutter. When you push the stick forward, instead of seeing smooth movement on the screen, you'll see a movement that starts and stops with no rhyme or reason. Have no fear. Before you toss that dual-stick in the trash and buy another of the best PS4 controllers out there, let's take a look at what you can try to remedy your problem.Products used in this guideBlow out the dust-bunnies: 2-Pack Dust-Off Compressed Air ($12 at Amazon)Adieu dust: AmazonBasics Microfiber Cloth 24-pack ($14 at Amazon)Grime be gone: Babyganics Alcohol-Free Sanitizing Wipes ($9 at Amazon)Get crafty: Joystick Wireless Controller Rocker for PlayStation 4 PS4 Controller ($7 at Amazon)Small P...
Poll: Did you preorder the iPhone 13 or iPad Mini?
It's okay — you can admit to us that you use Apple products.Preorders for the iPhone 13 have finally arrived, with people scrambling to get their hands on the latest and greatest from Apple. It wasn't exactly smooth sailing, though, with many facing errors when trying to order with their Apple Card, Apple Pay, or through iUP upgrade flow.Not only that, but many orders are now expected to arrive in mid-October.Despite the errors, many people were still able to process their orders for the new phone. And while our viewership mainly consists of Android fans, we know there are plenty of readers who use Apple products. In fact, some Android Central staff are fans of devices like the iPad Pro (2021), and we want to know if you've preordered any of Apple's new products.Did you pre-order any of the new Apple products?The iPhone 13 isn't much of a significant change from the well-received iPhone 12. Still, it brings an upgraded A15 Bionic chip, improved cameras with better video ...
Everything you need to know about FuboTV
All you need to know about FuboTV.Though it may not be the most well-known live TV streaming service on the market, FuboTV is one of the best available. While FuboTV is priced similarly to YouTube TV and Hulu with Live TV, it's packed with dozens of additional sports and entertainment channels, making it nearly impossible to find a better place to stream.FuboTVLive sports and entertainmentFrom $65 at FuboTVYour hub for sports, entertainment, and moreFuboTV plans start at $65 monthly and include access to more than 100 live TV channels with your subscription! There's also a tier with only Spanish-language channels available for only $33 monthly. Start your free trial now to check out the service before paying a cent.FuboTVWhat is FuboTV?How much does FuboTV cost? Channels on FuboTVWhere is FuboTV available?What devices support FuboTV?FuboTV dealsWhat is FuboTV?The FuboTV streaming service uses your location to include local channels with your monthly...
Google Play Services is the new Android platform
What started as a way to ensure every app works on every phone is now how Google maintains control over its own software platform.Google brought one of Android 11's best privacy features to every Android phone the company still actively supports, and it did it through the magic of Google Play Services.Soon, every phone running a version of Android 6 or later will be able to automatically revoke system permissions if you haven't used the app in a while. Android 6 is the cutoff because it's also the minimum version that supports the latest adaptation of the beast that is Google Play Services. It's also quite old, and you're going to find newer software on all of the best Android phones you can buy in 2021, as well as the not-so-great ones.This move is more important for your privacy than it may appear at first glance. In an interview with Google's privacy team, I spoke with product manager and privacy specialist Charmaine D'Silva at length about this feature when it was new. Her ...
Google Pixel now makes call holds in Canada less onerous with this feature
Google's "Hold for Me" feature is now available in preview to some Pixel phone users in Canada.What you need to knowGoogle's "Hold for Me" feature is apparently rolling out to some Pixel phones in Canada.The feature waits on hold for you until a real person is ready to talk.It is available in preview for now, so you might not get it immediately.Google appears to be expanding the availability of its unique feature that's meant to sit through a call hold on your behalf. "Hold for Me" has been spotted in preview on some Google Pixel phones in Canada.Some Pixel owners took to Reddit to report seeing the feature, which debuted last year in the U.S. alongside the Google Pixel 5 and Pixel 4a 5G. The capability, which is powered by Google Assistant, handles call holds so you don't have to wait on the line until a real person returns to the call. This comes in handy if you are multitasking and need to call support from your power company, for example.However, the feature is only...
The Samsung Galaxy S22 could finally give us another small flagship
Samsung could be going "mini" with the Galaxy S22.What you need to knowSamsung is tipped to launch the Galaxy S22 with a smaller display than previous-generation flagships.The Galaxy S22 could feature a 6.06-inch display, which is smaller than the Galaxy S10.Samsung is also rumored to decrease the battery capacity of its next flagship.With Samsung's new foldables out and in consumers' hands, the focus has started to shift on what the company could release next. The latest rumor points to an interesting design choice for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S22, which could please many users depending on their tastes.According to Ice Universe, Samsung's next flagship could launch with a 6.06-inch display. For comparison, that's smaller than the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S20, which both feature 6.2-inch displays, and even a hair smaller than the Galaxy S10 display which measures in at 6.1-inches. In fact, the S22 display size would fall between the S9 and S10.6.06— Ice universe (@Un...
Chrome preps new feature that automatically finds discounts when you shop
Google wants to help you save while you shop without relying on extensions like Honey.What you need to knowA new commit has been spotted, hinting at a handy new shopping feature in Chrome.The feature could allow Chrome to automatically fetch retail coupons when online shopping.The feature has yet to roll out onto developer or beta versions of Chrome.Everyone loves saving money, and it looks like Google wants to use Chrome to help you find the best discounts on products, according to a new commit found in Chromium Gerrit.Chrome Story spotted the commit, which shows that Google is working on a feature that would allow Chrome to automatically fetch coupons for discounts when shopping online. It would display a notification with the coupon description and discount percentage for items in your shopping cart.The feature sounds a lot like Honey, which is one of the best Chrome extensions for working from home thanks to its ability to quickly pull up discount codes. It's also a...
Diagnose your car troubles with these OBD II scanners
Car repairs can be costly (duh!), and the ominous glow of that check engine light could mean you have myriad issues that need immediate attention. However, it could also be a simple fix that you could do yourself. So why take it to the dealer or a mechanic without knowing what the problem is first? Some places will charge you substantially just for the scan. Instead, skip the headache and grab a home ODB2 scanner, download the app, and become your own second opinion. Here are some of the best OBD2 car readers for Android that you can get right now.Best reviewedBAFX Products Bluetooth scannerStaff PickThe BAFX Products 34t5 claims to work on all vehicles in the U.S. from 1996 or later — all you need is a third-party app and an Android phone or tablet.$21 at AmazonBest valuePanlong Bluetooth OBD2 car readerPanlong's OBD II scanner works with most post-1996 vehicles (sans some hybrids) and lets you read and clear trouble codes with real-time data readings.$13 at ...
The Amazon Appstore appears in the Microsoft Store ahead of Windows 11
Windows 11 isn't quite ready to bring Android to the party.What you need to knowA preview of the Amazon Appstore has been spotted on Windows 11.The preview doesn't appear to be ready for public use yet and is still being tested internally.Android app support won't be available when Windows 11 rolls out in early October.Android app support may be delayed for Windows 11, but there are healthy signs that the feature is still well on the way thanks to the latest Microsoft Store listing for the Amazon Appstore.The listing was spotted by leaker WalkingCat, who provided a link to the listing for the Amazon Appstore preview.Amazon Appstore https://t.co/mryFYtdrT9 pic.twitter.com/xxBM1Ey5Dx— WalkingCat (@_h0x0d_) September 17, 2021Unfortunately, you won't be able to try it, as noted by the "Amazon Confidential – For testing purposes" label slapped on it.The Amazon Appstore will be the official way Windows 11 users can natively download Android apps, whether the devic...
Best Dell Chromebooks 2021
While Lenovo, Acer, and ASUS may rule the roost among the best Chromebooks, Dell does offer a small collection of Chromebooks for consumers, businesses, and schools. Dell's Chrome OS portfolio isn't as pronounced as other manufacturers, but if Dell is your manufacturer of choice, these are the best Dell Chromebooks available today, whether you need a top-of-the-line, business-grade laptop or a travel-friendly lightweight laptop for vacations and weekends on the couch.Best Dell Chromebook: Dell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1This is the oldest Chromebook in Dell's current lineup, but it's still the best one for most Chromebook buyers. How is that possible, you ask? The Dell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1 is portable, long-lasting, and affordably priced. While not bleeding edge, Chrome OS runs quite well on the 3100's hardware, and it's one of the few 11.6-inch Chromebooks to offer an 8GB RAM option.8GB of RAM is absolutely an asset worth upgrading for, as Chrome uses a fair amount of RAM, and ...
This could be our first look at the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
The leaked renders suggest the tablet will look a lot like its predecessor.What you need to knowThe first high-res renders of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Tab A8 2021 have leaked.The tablet is tipped to feature a 10.4-inch FHD+ display, an 8MP rear camera, and a quad-speaker setup.It is expected to be announced sometime before the end of the year. Samsung could soon launch a new Android tablet to replace last year's Galaxy Tab A7 10.4, which is still among the best cheap Android tablets available. CAD-based renders and a few key specs of the device have now surfaced, courtesy of reliable leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer (@OnLeaks) and 91Mobiles.As seen in the renders below, the Galaxy Tab A8 doesn't appear to have an all-new design. Like its predecessor, the tablet seems to feature a metal chassis and relatively thick bezels around the display. We can also see that the device has a single camera on the back. The volume rocker buttons are placed on the right side, alongside a finge...
Google's permissions auto-reset feature is coming to older Android phones
The feature will automatically reset the runtime permissions of unused apps a few weeks after it is enabled on a device.What you need to knowGoogle is expanding the permissions auto-reset feature to older devices running Android 6.0 or higher.The feature will begin rolling out to devices with Google Play services starting December 2021. It is currently available only on devices running Android 11 or higher. Google announced on September 17 that it will be bringing the permissions auto-reset feature to billions more devices over the coming months. The feature, which was introduced with Android 11 last year, automatically rests an app's runtime permissions if it hasn't been used for a long time. Until now, it has been limited to the best Android phones running the latest version of Google's mobile operating system.The feature not only eliminates the need for users to keep up with the permissions that they've previously granted to apps, but also ensures that unused apps do ...
Grab a great mic for your PS4 or PS5 livestreams
The ever-rising popularity of streaming comes with a lot of competition. You'll need a great personality to set yourself apart, but you'll also need some reliable equipment. Mediocre microphones are a surefire way to lose viewers quickly. Instead, try some of the best PS4 USB microphones to up your game that offer top-notch quality sound without breaking the bank. Our staff pick goes to Blue Yeti's USB microphone for its high-quality audio and varying recording patterns. Still, there are several trustworthy choices on this list for any budget that will give you crystal clear audio when streaming from your PS4 or PS5.MultipurposeBlue Yeti X USB MicrophoneStaff PickIt doesn't get much better for streamers than the Blue Yeti X. It's affordable (relatively speaking compared to other high-end mics), it picks up high-quality audio from four different recording patterns, and it features zero-latency headphone output through a 3.5mm jack so that you can listen to exactly what you'r...
AC Podcast 543: Epic Ruling; iPhone
Lisa Gade of MobileTechReview is our special guest this week! She hangs out with Jerry, Daniel, and Ara to discuss the Epic court ruling and check out Apple's recent announcements in relation to what they mean for Android users. Plus, the gang offer early impressions of Samsung's One UI 4 Beta, Pixel 6, and more.Listen nowSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: AudioSubscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:MobileTechReview - YouTubeLisa Gade (@lisagade) / TwitterEpic Games pays Apple $6 million as result of Epic v. Apple lawsuit | iMoreFortnite fans furious as Epic Games vows to fight on against Apple | iMoreAs expected, Epic Games has appealed a court ruling in its spat with Apple | iMoreiPhone 13 (2021): Release date, price, features, and more | iMoreiPhone 13 delivers big 5G disappointment | iMoreAfter four years, the notch on the iPhone is finally getting smaller | iMoreApple Watch Series 7: Release date, price, features, and more | i...
HBO Max deal gives you 50% off for six months — here's how
The deal is primarily targeted at subscribers who had been accessing HBO Max through Amazon Prime Video channels.What you need to knowWarnerMedia is offering a 50% discount on HBO Max subscriptions.Both new and existing customers can now get HBO Max for $7.49/month for the first six months. You'll have to pay $14.99/month after six months. As part of WarnerMedia's efforts to have a more direct relationship with its customers, HBO Max disappeared from Amazon Prime Video channels earlier this week. The streaming service is expected to have lost around 5 million subscribers as part of the move. WarnerMedia has now come up with a special offer to lure back customers who were subscribed to HBO Max through Prime Video channels.50% price cut to @hbomax ad-free for six months for all new and returning subs — focused on recapturing the 4-5 million lost Amazon subs quicklyCan get it direct https://t.co/EVMU9wbAQa or via partners Apple, Google, LG, Microsoft, Sony, Roku and Vizio(...
The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro aren't far off now! Here's everything we know
Counting down the days until Google opens up Pixel 6 preorders.Not since the original Pixel launch have we seen this level of hype for a new Google phone. The Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will dramatically improve on the mid-range Pixel 5, offering true flagship specs. And thanks to its striking two-toned design, Google-made Tensor chipset, exclusive Android 12 features like Dynamic colors for the new Material You UI, and improved camera sensors, the 2021 Pixels are set to make a big splash.Google gave us the first official peek at the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro on August 2 after months of rumors, giving us our first proper glimpse of the phone outside of leaks. Since then, Google has kept silent about the phone; but recent rumors and leaks suggest we could see the final announcement soon, which will unveil the release date, price, and full specs.With the iPhone 13 set to arrive in late September, we're primed to see an all-out brawl between Apple and Google in 2021's closing mo...
Protect your Oculus Quest 2 from sweat and grime with these face covers
The Oculus Quest 2's absorbent foam pads will become sweat-stained and dirtier the longer you use them. Worse, the foam causes skin irritation, to the point that Oculus recalled the Quest 2 and is offering a replacement silicone cover. While you can get that for free, alternative third-party covers made of leather, silicone, or other more comfortable materials are easier to clean and have better venting to prevent lens fogging. Starting with our personal favorite, the KIWI Design Facial Interface, here are the best Quest 2 face covers when it comes to coziness and cleanliness.Best overall: KIWI Design Facial InterfaceOne of the biggest Quest 2 issues is with excess lens fogging. The basic facial interface traps your heat and sweat inside the headset, which inevitably fogs up your POV — especially when playing active games or exercise apps. Thankfully, several third-party replacement covers include vents to allow more air circulation, which daily VR users will find incredibly ...
Light up your home with these affordable Sengled light bulbs
There are a ton of great options when choosing the best Sengled light bulbs for your home. Not only do you have the choice of shape and size, but you can also decide whether you want lights that connect to a Zigbee hub, your Wi-Fi network, or bulbs that work over Bluetooth. Sengled also sells cheap smart LED light bulbs that you won't feel guilty about investing in. These are some of the top picks for the best Sengled light bulbs.Best overall: Sengled Smart Wi-Fi LED Multicolor A19 BulbThis multicolored A19 bulb doesn't require a Zigbee hub to get going, which is why it's a top pick for anyone just getting started in building out their smart home lighting. You'll be able to use voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant, as well as operate your lights when you're away from home. So if you forgot to turn off the bathroom light before heading out for the night, you could fix that in no time through the app.This bulb lets you pick among 16 million colors to illuminate your...
...313314315316317318319320321322...