Latest from Android Central

One of OPPO's Chinese distribution partners was recently heavily fined by India's Enforcement Directorate.What you need to knowIndia's Income Tax department is raiding OPPO's distribution partners in the country.Similar raids were also made by country's Enforcement Directorate (ED) recently.The Indian government wants BBK-owned brands such as OPPO and Vivo to leverage local companies for distribution. India's Income Department is conducting raids at the offices of OPPO and OnePlus' Chinese distribution partners in Rajkot and Hyderabad, according to a report from The Economic Times. Similar raids are also being carried out at the offices of Xiaomi's offices in various cities across the country, based on "intelligence input" on tax evasion and concealed income.The raids come just week after one of OPPO's Chinese distribution partners was penalized in hundreds of crores by the country's Enforcement Directorate in Hyderabad. According to sources familiar with the matter, the ...

If you want a 4-bay NAS enclosure as a Plex media server, the DS920+ is the default choice.A network attached storage (NAS) server offers an easy way to back up data from connected phones and other devices, and is the ideal way to stream locally-stored music, movies, and TV shows on your home network.Synology makes the best NAS for Plex media streaming, with its servers delivering reliable hardware backed by the best software in this category. The DiskStation DS920+ made its debut back in June 2020, and 18 months later, it continues to be one of the best options if you want a home NAS primarily for media storage and streaming via Plex.The reason for the continued dominance of the DS920+ is the fact that it ticks all the right boxes. The four drive bays can hold 64TB of storage in total, there's 4GB of RAM out of the box — with the option of adding an additional 4GB module — as well as dual Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and two M.2 slots for SSD caching, and you can add up t...

Realme is all set to launch the GT 2 series in China on January 4.What you need to knowRealme's 2022 flagship GT 2 series is launching in China on January 4.The GT 2 Pro will be powered by the Snapdragon​ ​8 Gen​ ​1 and make its global debut in Q1 2022. The device has a unique back cover made out of eco-friendly materials and is designed by Naoto​ ​Fukasawa. In 2021, Realme hit the 100 million phone sales landmark, arriving at the figure faster than any other brand to date. It did so on the back of stellar sales in the budget segment — its devices are among the best budget Android phones — offering a similar caliber of hardware and software as Xiaomi.Realme releases a lot of devices over the course of the year, but it looks like it is thankfully not going to do that for 2022, instead focusing on a few differentiated devices that stand out in each category. To kick things off, Realme has announced that it will unveil the GT 2 series in China on January 4...

The Frame is unique in that it doesn't look like your normal TV. Samsung instead designed it to look like a picture frame, and as a result you get a TV that's meant to be hung on a wall the same way you would for framed artwork. Samsung even lets you select the bezel finish so that the TV is able to seamlessly blend in with the rest of your artwork.The best feature, however, is that The Frame actually turns into a picture frame when it's off, showcasing artwork from a portfolio selected by Samsung that includes over 1,400 artworks from the best galleries in the world — or you can just use your own photos. It has sensors to automatically adjust the lighting of the artwork based on the ambient light in the room, and it is a very cool way to use the TV when it's off.Now, once you switch on The Frame, you get a vibrant 4K panel that uses Samsung's excellent QLED tech to deliver incredible contrast and brightness levels. I used several of Samsung's QLED-based TVs, and they deliver bet...

Meta acquired ImageOptix, a company specializing in liquid crystal lenses that Valve had invested millions into.What you need to knowImageOptix specializes in making high-quality displays for devices like VR headsets.This tech allegedly allows for lighter headsets, reduces eye strain, and adjusts focus based on your prescription.Oculus competitor Valve previously invested in the company before Meta bought it out.The FTC recently launched a probe into Meta for its $400 million acquisition of exercise game Supernatural.Meta has reportedly acquired ImageOptix, a liquid crystal lens manufacturer that VR rival Valve sued earlier this year. VR YouTuber Bradley Lynch, aka SadlyItsBradley, reported that Valve had invested millions in the company and gave it a $1 million loan, only for a mystery investor to swoop in and buy the company. Valve and ImageOptix later settled their dispute out of court.Turns out that mystery investor was Meta. VR blogger Karl Guttag discovered this ne...

New chipset and new Google Assistant.What you need to knowEvidence continues to emerge of the existence of a Pixel Watch.Google may use an Exynos chip to power the Pixel Watch in lieu of Snapdragon Wear.The Pixel Watch is rumored to receive a new Google Assistant experience.Rumors continue to suggest that Google is preparing to launch a Pixel Watch relatively soon. The latest evidence comes from the Google app and Wear OS 3 emulator that was recently updated.9to5Google discovered a reference to the Pixel Watch in a recent update to the Google app. The code references "PIXEL_EXPERIENCE_WATCH," similar to how Google designates Pixel-exclusive software features within its apps. Not only does this point to a watch, but it indicates that there will be certain features arriving on this device tat may not reach other Wear OS watches.So far, that could include the watch faces that were uncovered in the Wear OS 3 emulator, but beyond that, it's unknown.Additionally, 9to5Google...

The renders reveal an immersive flat display and, of course, a dedicated slot for a stylus.What you need to knowFresh renders of Motorola's upcoming Moto G Stylus 2022 have surfaced online.The next-gen smartphone may be a minor upgrade over its predecessor, with a largely similar design.Motorola is rumored to unveil the device in the middle of next year.Motorola's upcoming refresh to the stylus-equipped Moto G Stylus has surfaced in a new set of leaked renders, courtesy of prolific leaker @OnLeaks. The images show a familiar design that borrows heavily from the previous generation.The renders, which were posted online by Prepp.in, provide the first look at the next Moto G Stylus iteration. With a few exceptions, it generally resembles the current version. The rear camera island, for example, takes an oval shape, as opposed to the rectangular design found in the 2021 model. The front-facing selfie camera has also been moved to the center of the screen, from the top left c...

Control your incoming call experience with Google Voice.What you need to knowGoogle Voice now lets users set custom incoming call settings.Voice users can now tell Google Voice which calls to screen and which contacts to forward to linked numbers.The settings can only be changed on the Google Voice website.Google Voice users are getting some new features that will allow them to better control their call forwarding experience.The service has introduced new settings that let users set custom rules for forwarding incoming calls on their various devices, including the best Android phones. Now, users can select which contacts and groups to forward to specific linked numbers. Google Voice can also automatically screen certain contacts.Additionally, if you don't want to speak with some contacts, you can now have them automatically forwarded to voicemail. To personalize the experience, Google Voice users can also record custom voicemail greetings for specific contacts.Googl...

Samsung's Galaxy Android tablet offerings are a big part of one of the most complete Android ecosystems out there. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a refined design with a display that runs out to the very edge of the tablet and works great with the S-Pen. This tablet comes in a few configurations starting at 4GB of RAM with 64GB of storage for just $280, that's $250 off. If you want a bit more performance under the hood, pick the 6GB or 8GB models with similar discounts.The Galaxy Tab S7 FE has a massive 12.4-inch display with a 2560x1600 resolution and 16:10 aspect ratio. This means that screen has the same aspect ratio as a MacBook Pro allowing for useful multitasking in landscape mode and there's no wasted space when reading to drawing in portrait mode.The cheapest model comes with 4GB of RAM with 64GB of storage which is enough for light usage like video streaming, reading books, taking notes, and web browsing. Where you might want to upgrade to a higher-end model is if you plan to dr...

Still waiting for an official app from Google Home.What you need to knowHome Assistant has launched a companion app for Wear OS.The app lets users control smart home devices with a tap and comes with a tile for quick access.The companion app is currently in beta as Home Assistant continues to stabilize the experience.Home Assistant, the open-source DIY home automation application, has just released a new companion app for Wear OS, bringing easily accessible smart home control to your wrist before Google Home does.The team made the announcement on Monday (via XDA-Developers), showing off the app running on a Fossil Gen 5 smartwatch.Happy Monday, especially to all Android users out there! Today we're releasing a beta of the the Home Assistant companion for WearOS.There are also a *ton* of new features for the Android app. Check out highlights and latest release notes on the blog: https://t.co/KPQOgEmcJI pic.twitter.com/mRzXxT2Jko— Home Assistant (@home_assistant) Decemb...

Bose is known not only for comfortable headphones, but for excellent sound quality, so getting a pair of the best Bose headphones might be worth the investment. Bose's Noise Canceling Headphones 700 are the company's most innovative option to date. They feature 11 different steps of active noise cancelation, great battery life with up to 20 hours on a single charge, USB-C charging, and solid sound quality.Best overall: Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700The Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 aren't the newest headphones the company has to offer, but they're still, by far, the most innovative.The headlining feature here are the NCH 700s' active noise-cancelation (ANC) capabilities. The outgoing Bose QC35 II had solid ANC but were clearly showing their age. However, the NCH 700 now feature some of the best ANC available on the market today. With new ANC algorithms, they're able to block out nearly all bass/low-end noise and a decent amount of midrange and treble. They also fea...

Android tablets have waned in popularity over the past few years, leading many companies to all but abandon them. But no one gave Samsung the memo: It regularly releases new tablet options every year with killer hardware while channeling its Android know-how into respectable software. So whether you choose our top overall pick — the Galaxy Tab S7 — or any other option in this roundup, the best Samsung tablets all have plenty to set them apart compared to iPads, Fires, and other popular brands.Best overall: Samsung Galaxy Tab S7You have a large number of high-quality Galaxy Tabs to consider, but above everything that's on offer, the Galaxy Tab S7 stands out as our go-to recommendation. It launched last summer but remains the best Samsung tablet today — and often sells for far less than its original asking price.The most important aspect of any tablet is its display, and in this regard, the Tab S7 has a lot going for it. You're treated to an 11-inch LCD panel with a 2560x...

A little more polish is needed for one of the series' finest games.What you need to knowFinal Fantasy 6 Pixel Remaster is the last of the remastered Final Fantasy games coming to PC and mobile devices.Square Enix announced that the Final Fantasy 6 Pixel Remaster is delayed to Feb. 2022.This delay is meant to give the team working on the remaster more time to polish the game.The Final Fantasy 6 pixel remaster has been delayed to Feb. 2022, Square Enix shared via Twitter. The previous five Pixel Remasters are currently available, with Final Fantasy 6 being the last one to launch."In order to bring you the best experience possible, we're allowing the necessary time to apply final polish while finishing development of the game," the delay announcement explains. Square Enix also shared that anyone who preorders the game on Steam or has already purchased the bundle for all the games will be getting some additional items. Here's everything you'll get for preordering the game on ...

It sounds kind of awesome, right?What you need to knowThe team behind the Essential Phone teases a new smartphone.The device features a dual-camera setup, rear fingerprint sensor, and is powered by a Qualcomm chip.The software will be very privacy-focused with a near-stock Android experience.Essential may not be around anymore, but its mission still lives on thanks to OSOM Products. The team that helped bring the Essential Phone (PH-1) to life has just teased its first smartphone offering with a big focus on privacy.The company provided Android Police with an exclusive first-look at its upcoming device, the OV1. While not a direct successor to the Essential PH-1, the OV1, or "OSOM Vault 1," is something of a spiritual successor. In fact, it manages to retain the rear fingerprint sensor (which we don't see much of these days in higher-end phones) and dual camera setup.According to OSOM Products founder Jason Keats, the OSOM OV1's name also harkens back to the Essential...

4K on a budgetAmazon Fire TV Stick 4KFrom $30 at AmazonProsAccess to 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR, and HDR10+Alexa Voice RemoteIntuitive designConsNo Google Play appsRequires power adapterComplicated menu systemThe Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is one of the brand's most powerful streaming media sticks and is more affordable than most 4K streamers on the market. The Fire TV Stick 4K also features a simple and intuitive menu and a comprehensive voice experience via the Alexa Voice Remote.Top tier streamingRoku Streaming Stick 4K$40 at RokuProsDolby Vision pictureVoice remote with TV controlsLong-range Wi-FiConsNo ethernet port No headphone jack on remoteDoesn't work as seamlessly with Alexa/Google Home speakersThe Roku Streaming Stick 4K is the latest streaming stick from Roku and takes things to the next level, thanks to Dolby Vision picture compatibility. Its sleek design hides easily behind your TV and is praised for its long-rang...

This year was a pivotal year for the games industry, marking the first full year of the ninth generation of video game consoles, beginning with the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. It saw blockbuster titles and indies alike release in a time where the future was (and frankly, still is) uncertain. Between hardware and software, there were plenty of products that stood out to us here at Android Central despite a ton of delays.And if you're looking for our general Android Central Awards, we've got you covered there too, discussing the best products and services across all of Android.Here are our top picks for the best games and accessories in 2021 across PlayStation, Android, virtual reality, and Stadia. Congratulations to all of the winners!Best Games of 2021Game of the YearResident Evil Village$34 at WalmartThere was a lot of hype surrounding Resident Evil Village based solely on the reveal of tall vampire Lady Dimitrescu, but both fans of the franchise and newcomers...

Scrubbing away the problems, one by one.What you need to knowThe December 17 Google Home update (version 2.47.78.2) brings UI enhancements for video history playback.Video event history can now be easily scrubbed through by using the new next and previous buttons.The latest Nest cameras are required to use the Google Home app for management and video playback instead of the Nest app.The Google Home app just got a small update (via 9to5Google) that's a big deal for anyone who uses Google's 2021 Nest Cam cameras. Within the camera event history, three new buttons make it easy to play, pause, and skip between motion events with a single tap.Previously, users would have to drag the timeline backward or forward to find motion events, or navigate to the full event history pane to find a list of events. Scrubbing the timeline took a significant amount of time — especially if events were few and far between one another — and there were no visual cues to indicate where the nex...

Google has a hard time retaining Black female employees.What you need to knowGoogle is reportedly under investigation for mistreatment of Black female workers.Multiple complaints were reportedly filed alleging discrimination and harassment.According to its last diversity report, Google has had trouble retaining its Black female employees.Google hasn't had the best relationship with its Black female employees, and the latest report shows that the company still has more work to do.According to a report from Reuters, California's Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) is investigating Google following multiple complaints of mistreatment by Black female workers. These complaints allege harassment and discrimination from within the company.Sources told Reuters that DFEH had interviewed several Black women working at Google's parent company, Alphabet. The investigation allegedly involves employees who haven't filed complaints to gain insight into their experiences w...

The best Samsung Galaxy S21 cases will not only keep your new flagship smartphone protected, but also keep it looking as stylish as you are. Whether you prefer a clear case, a flip case, something colorful, or even something rugged, there's no scarcity of options with a smartphone as popular as the Galaxy 21. And the best part is that you don't even have to spend a lot of money to keep your Galaxy S21 looking great for a long time. Here are some of the best Galaxy S21 cases you can buy today.Colorful and well-texturedCaseology Nano PopStaff PickThe Galaxy S21 is the first Android smartphone to get Caseology's Nano Pop Series, and it's been 110% worth the wait. The texturing on this case makes it grippier than Caseology's longtime favorite Parallax, and the color combos here are bold, beautiful, and pop around the camera cutout of the S21.From $16 at AmazonSlim grip and gritRingke Onyx SeriesIf you want to add some grip to your slippery little Samsung, Ringke...

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 is a sleek computer with a compactly sized 13.3-inch screen and detachable keyboard that's great for casual computing. Thanks to the generous battery life, it's easy to bring it with you for all your activities, including both work and play. But you'll want to keep it protected and make it easy to carry or slip into a backpack, oversized purse, or briefcase. That's where a good sleeve comes in, and we have rounded up some great ones worth considering.Full protectionVoova 13 13.3 Inch Laptop Sleeve CaseStaff PickNot only is this sleeve stylish and available in multiple solid color options, but it's also waterproof, so you don't have to worry if you get stuck in the rain. It has a convenient side handle and zipper closure and two handy zippered pockets on the front for the charger, phone, and other small accessories.$16 at Amazon $25 at WalmartCarry on its ownInateck 360° Protection 13.3 Inch Laptop Case SleeveSleek enough to carry on i...

The Legacy of the Crystals has shaped our history for long enough.The latest in the epic Final Fantasy series has been announced. Final Fantasy 16 for PS5 brings players a brand new story and characters set amidst familiar spirits, creatures, and monsters. At this point, not much is known yet about Final Fantasy 16, and we're still in the dark on many things. Still, there are some glimmers to appreciate and study, so we here at Android Central have gathered everything you need to know before diving into this gorgeous action RPG.A brand new Final Fantasy game launch is always a big deal, and with the team developing this game, it could end up being one of the best PS5 games available when it arrives.Midgar awaitsFinal Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade$45 at Amazon$70 at Best Buy$45 at GameStopTry another Final Fantasy adventureFinal Fantasy 7 Remake explores the rebuilt world of Midgar, telling a story of dystopia, corruption, and rebellion as eco-insurgents try to save ...

It was a problem before, and now it's even more of a problem.Update, Dec 17 (12:15 p.m. ET): Google says it's investigatingWhat you need to knowPixel 6 owners recently received the December update with plenty of bug fixes.Since the update, many Pixel 6 owners have been suffering from poor cell signal.For now, users may want to wait on installing the update.The December update recently rolled out to the Pixel 6, and while it included a ton of bug fixes, it apparently introduced a new one, with many users complaining of poor signal.Complaints have been found across Reddit and even on the Google Issue Tracker, with many users stating that signal has been poor and even nonexistent in areas where there were previously no issues.Obviously, this creates a big problem because it makes essential functions like calling and texting incredibly difficult and can also affect battery life is the phone is constantly trying to find a better signal. As a result, some users are also com...

When Google Stadia first launched at the end of 2019, early adopters of the game streaming service could only use the Chromecast Ultra and the Stadia controller to play games strictly on their televisions. It wasn't until earlier this year that Stadia could support more Android TV devices with hardware able to sync compatible Bluetooth, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One controllers. Now players can use their smartphone as a virtual gamepad to play Stadia games on the TV, and here is how to do it.How to use your smartphone as a Stadia controller on Chromecast UltraSwitch to the input for Chromecast Ultra on your television.Find the linking code on your Chromecast's Ambient Mode screen. If there is no linking code, you may have to turn it on in your Ambient Mode settings.On your smartphone, open the latest version of the Stadia app. Next, make sure the Chromecast Ultra and the smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.Tap the Controller icon at the top of the mobile device's...

The latest beta isn't available in all markets just yet.What you need to knowThe fourth One UI 4 beta for the Galaxy Note 20 series is now live.It is likely the last beta before the stable Android 12 update is released to the Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra. The stable One UI 4 update for the two phones is expected to start rolling out next month.The fourth Android 12-based One UI 4 beta is now available for the Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra. According to SamMobile, the update is currently limited to beta testers in Samsung's home market of South Korea. The latest build is expected to expand to beta testers in other markets within the next few days.Just like the third One UI 4 beta for the Galaxy Note 20 series, the new build doesn't bring any major changes. As per the official changelog posted on Samsung's Community forums, the update fixes issues with some Instagram and Facebook links not opening. Samsung has also fixed an issue with chat bubble icons not disappearing in K...

Best answer: Yes, the Fitbit Charge 5 includes a built-in NFC chip so you can make contactless payments with your fitness tracker.Make contactless payments with the Fitbit Charge 5If you're always on the go, you want to find a reliable fitness tracker that can keep up with your active lifestyle. Fortunately, there are plenty of solid options to choose from these days. You should consider the Fitbit Charge 5 for many reasons, including contactless payments.For starters, you can leave your phone behind and still track your route with GPS during a workout. When you're headed out for a run in the park, you can leave your wallet behind, thanks to Fitbit Charge 5's NFC support. This allows you to use your tracker to make contactless payments via Fitbit Pay when you're on the go. So whether you're stopping to quench your thirst after a run or pausing for a quick bite to eat, this is an extremely useful feature to have. Fitbit Pay works with leading banks and credit unions across t...

Characters in higher tiers tend to be more powerful.Genshin Impact, the latest action RPG from miHoYo, has two dozen characters, along with many more coming soon. As with any gacha game, the best Genshin Impact characters require a fair bit of luck and/or money to add to your team. Characters each have different rarity levels and belong to different tiers. Typically, the higher up the tier they are, the more powerful they are. So, which characters should you be hoping for and investing your resources in leveling up? We're here to help and when you finish, be sure to check out our best Android games for even more mobile fun.Genshin Impact Tier ListHow many playable characters are there?S Rank CharactersA Rank CharactersB Rank CharactersC Rank CharactersD Rank CharactersComing soonHow many playable characters are there?There are over 40 different playable characters in Genshin Impact. A handful are rewards for completing certain portions of the story, including...

This is pretty much the cheapest price you're likely to find for Samsung's smaller flagship.The Samsung Galaxy S21 is of 2021's best Android phones, and for much of the year was our top pick as the best phone for most people. The small S21 packs much of the same magic as the flagship S21 Ultra into a smaller form factor, and at a significantly lower cost.And if you're looking for festive gift for someone special, or a pre-holiday treat for yourself, you'll definitely want to take a look at Best Buy's latest sale on the Galaxy S21, which has the unlocked 128GB version of the phone available for $499, a saving of $300 on the list price. The deal covers the S21 in phantom violet, phantom pink and phantom navy color options.Get $300 off an unlocked Galaxy S21 at Best BuySamsung Galaxy S21$499 at Best BuySamsung's Galaxy S21 series are among the best all-round Android phones you can buy, with reliable performance and capable multi-camera systems. With Best Buy's latest dea...

If you're the proud owner of a Pixel 4a with 5G, a Pixel 5, a Pixel 6, or a Pixel 6 Pro, your phone is now integrated even more deeply with Snapchat than ever before. Thanks to Google's December 2021 update, Pixel owners with the back tap feature can now quickly get to their favorite part of Snapchat without having to first unlock the device and scroll through your apps. They're some of the best Android smartphones you can buy for a reason.How to use quick tap to SnapchatYour Pixel 4a with 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 6, or Pixel 6 Pro comes equipped with a special sensor on the back that can detect a double-tap. This double-tap works like a button and can be programmed to perform several different actions, including launching Snapchat. Here's how to configure it.Make sure you have the Snapchat app installed and are logged in with your account.Open system settings by pulling down the notification shade twice and clicking the settings gear.Scroll down the list and select system.Select...

Samsung hasn't acknowledged the issue yet.What you need to knowSamsung's latest Galaxy Watch 4 Plugin update appears to have a serious bug.Galaxy Watch 4 users are no longer able to connect the smartwatch to non-Samsung phones.It is likely that the issue will be fixed with the next update. Earlier this month, Samsung rolled out a new update to its Galaxy Watch 4 Plugin app, adding notice for "Holiday watchface" and fixing runtime exception. Unfortunately, however, it looks the update has made it impossible for Galaxy Watch 4 owners to connect the watch to non-Samsung phones. Android Central reached out to Samsung regarding the issue but did not receive a comment in time for publication.Going by recent reviews on the Play Store, the app asks users to update to continue using it — even though a newer update isn't available yet. Disappointingly, there's no workaround either.Even if you try uninstalling and reinstalling the app, it remains stuck on the same "update" scr...

Have a carrier in mind, or just looking for a cheap plan? Here are the most affordable data plans you can get.Switching to a better phone plan is easier than it seems. Most of the time, it only takes a few minutes to move your number over; and with unlocked phones getting cheaper and more accessible, you can probably keep using your phone the exact same way. Just with more money in the bank.If you want to save money on your cell phone plan, there are more options than ever with new ways to save on major carriers and even smaller, prepaid carriers. MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) or alternative carriers lease coverage from the larger networks and resell it for less. That being said, depending on your average usage and needs, a plan from one of the Big Three could still be your least expensive option. Here are the best cheap cell phone plans in the U.S. right now.What do you really need in a phone plan?Before choosing a carrier and/or a wireless plan, spend some time t...

Among the many, many features on Google's flagship phones like the Pixel 6, Adaptive Charging often sits unnoticed while flashy features like Call Screening and Now Playing steal the show. That's a crying shame because Adaptive Battery is the exact kind of silent-but-helpful feature we need more of, not just on Android but on all electronic platforms.Adaptive Charging keeps the charging from beyond 80% at night until you're close to your normal wake-up time. Limiting the amount of time your phone sits fully charged helps it retain a charge longer, thus allowing your battery to last longer before you have to replace the battery (or replace the phone). Google even added it to Android 12 rather than keeping it to the Pixel line because it can make Android better for everyone.While phones are best suited to this tech — we usually charge them every night and usually have an alarm set on them come morning — this technology could be great for many other devices we use in our dai...

Comfortable pickBeats Studio Buds$120 at Amazon $120 at Best Buy $120 at WalmartProsBetter than typical Beats soundSuper comfortable fitHands-free Siri accessWorks well with AndroidDecent app supportCons:No H1 or W1 chip for Apple usersNo auto play and pauseNo wireless chargingBeats made the Studio Buds appeal to a wider subset of users, meaning you're not just buying these because you think they'll rumble your ears with thick bass. There's more to them than that, which includes decent sound and good comfort and a little flash on the side.Traditional lookApple AirPods (3rd Gen)$150 at Amazon $169 at Best Buy $179 at B&HProsImproved audio qualitySpatial audio supportMore durable build this timeExcellent call qualitySmall charging caseConsNo ANCNo EQ optionsLightning for chargingNot as resistant to water and sweatApple gave its entry-level earbuds a slightly different take, but the gist of what's going on inside hasn't ch...

The new-and-improved Amazon Halo VIew is all about giving you the full picture of your wellness. This compact and lightweight fitness tracker is perfect for health enthusiasts, but you may find yourself wanting a different band. While this is still a fairly new device, there are a few different band options out there. We've rounded up some of the best Amazon Halo View bands for you to choose from.Perfectly flexible and breathableAmazon Halo View Fabric BandStaff PickBreathability matters, especially if you're an active individual who needs a band that will move with you. This band comes directly from the company, and it's made of a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex. So you'll have all the flexibility you need to tackle your workouts. It comes in six colors, including WInter, Olive, and Volcano.$30 at AmazonTime to get sportyAmazon Halo View Sport BandMany fitness enthusiasts are searching for a high-performance band ideal for high-intensity workouts. Yo...

POCO scores another win with the budget-focused M4 Pro 5G.The first wave of 5G-enabled devices started rolling out last year, but it was in 2021 that we got to see the democratization of the cellular standard. We can now find plenty of budget Android phones for under $200 that offer 5G connectivity as standard, and these devices are driving the momentum for 5G.POCO positioned itself ideally in this category with the M3 Pro, offering good hardware with an exciting design and 5G connectivity on a budget. The POCO F3 did the same for the mid-range segment, but it was the M3 and M3 Pro that excelled on the value front.The Chinese manufacturer is now doubling down on the budget 5G segment with the launch of the POCO M4 Pro. The phone features a similar design over the rear camera housing that we saw on the standard M3, and it has newer camera modules — along with an ultra-wide lens to boot — faster 33W fast charging, and a vibrant 90Hz LCD screen.What hasn't changed is the foc...

Before you know it, the holidays will be upon us. Are you prepared? We're all a little spoiled by the magic of online ordering and fast delivery times, but don't wait too long. Most major retailers are making a point to let customers know about their holiday shipping deadlines, including Walmart.The company says if you choose ground shipping by Dec. 20, you'll receive your package by Christmas Day. There are still some pretty sweet Walmart deals available, too. If you still have some items to cross off your holiday shopping list, now is the time.Online retailers can do their very best to make sure you receive your packages by a specific date, but let's not forget that the major courier services also play a critical role in the shipping and delivery process. Delays are bound to happen, so you should always consider leaving a little wiggle room rather than pushing it to the final days.Fortunately, each major courier service in the U.S. has provided some important details about deli...

Unfortunately, it looks like the phone will not launch with Android 12 out of the box.What you need to knowA fresh new leak has revealed nearly all the key specs of Samsung's Galaxy S21 FE.The phone is tipped to arrive with a Snapdragon 888 chipset, a 120Hz AMOLED screen, and a triple-camera setup featuring a 12MP main sensor. Samsung is expected to finally unveil the phone at its pre-CES 2022 event on January 4. Samsung announced earlier this week that it will be holding its CES 2022 pre-show keynote on January 4. Although the company hasn't confirmed anything yet, it is being speculated that the Galaxy S21 FE could finally break cover at the event. Ahead of the "Together for Tomorrow" show, WinFuture has published a new report with multiple renders and the full specs sheet of the upcoming value flagship.Per the report, Samsung's Galaxy S21 FE 5G features a 6.4-inch flat Dynamic AMOLED 2x display with FHD+ resolution, Gorilla Glass Victus protection, and a 120Hz refresh ...

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

DJI makes drones and mobile gimbals.What you need to knowThe U.S. Treasury Department has placed DJI and other companies on an investment blocklist.DJI is accused of having supplied surveillance technology for the Chinese government.The move comes a year after DJI was placed on the Entity List.The United States is making another move against popular drone maker DJI as the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) places it and seven other companies on an investment blocklist.The announcement was made on Thursday following reports that DJI would be among the companies targeted by the U.S. government. According to the Treasury, these companies "actively support the biometric surveillance and tracking of ethnic and religious minorities in China, particularly the predominantly Muslim Uyghur minority in Xinjiang."Today, Treasury's OFAC identified 8 Chinese technology firms as part of the Chinese Military Industrial Complex. These 8 entities activel...

The best Amazon Fire TV Edition sets offer built-in access to Fire TV while saving an HDMI port. Mostly made by reliable brands like Toshiba and Insignia, these Fire TVs are often quite affordable, even up to 75 inches. And right now, you'll find major deals on some of the best models available.Among the Amazon Fire TV deals available, you'll find up to $250 off both the Toshiba C350 and Insignia F30, two of our top 4K picks for quality and affordability. There's also $100 off the brand-new Toshiba M550 with a 120Hz refresh rate and 48 local dimming zones, plus sets as low as $200 if you're willing to choose FHD over 4K. Overall, all of these well-reviewed sets offer great quality at even lower prices than usual.You'll find the same prices on Amazon and Best Buy for these sets. Just keep in mind that many of the Best Buy deal listings offer further incentives to go with the discounted television: a free Echo Dot (3rd Gen), three months of Apple TV+ for new subscribers, and 30 days ...

It's not too late to get your holiday shopping done, and there are plenty of last-minute deals you can take advantage of. If you're struggling with what to get someone, fitness trackers seem to be a popular gift idea. Amazon and Best Buy currently have the Fitbit Charge 5 on sale right now for just $130, a savings of $50 off its normal price.Fitbit makes some of the best fitness trackers available, which should come as no surprise because the company was founded on its firm health and fitness beliefs; that's what it specializes in. The Fitbit Charge 5 in particular is one of the very best you can get, delivering 7-day battery life with a beautiful OLED display. It's slim design, water-proofing, and features make it second to none.Save $50 on this Fitbit Charge 5Fitbit Charge 5 | $50 off$130 at Amazon$130 at Best BuyThe Fitbit Charge 5 comes in a few different colors and is perfect for fitness and holiday enthusiasts this holiday. It features a built-in GPS, health met...

With about a week left to get your Christmas gifts delivered on time, most retailers can no longer deliver your gifts on time unless they offer in-store pickup. But Best Buy is one of the rare exceptions, offering holiday deals on tech that you may be able to buy and receive that same day.With limited same-day deliveries, free next-day deliveries on some of its more popular devices, and the option for curbside/in-store pickup if a local store has your device in stock, Best Buy gives you the most versatility for snagging last-minute Christmas gifts.What is the last day for Best Buy Christmas deliveries?Best Buy hasn't announced a cut-off date for Christmas deliveries, and the speed of your package will depend on your zip code and whether your item is commonly available near you. Still, we have some solid estimates for Best Buy Christmas order cut-offs.At the moment, most Best Buy stock has either one- or two-day free delivery. So depending on your order, you could buy something ...

The rollout of RCS messaging features was a slow and frustrating process for all Android users. Then, Google decided to hop on the bandwagon and give just about everyone access to RCS through its own Messages app. Still, Samsung also lagged behind due in part to different wireless carriers dragging their feet. Today, we're taking a look at how you can set up RCS chat with the Samsung Messages app — provided that your carrier has enabled it.How to set up RCS Chat with Samsung MessagesUnlike with Google Messages, there is currently no way to force the activation of RCS within Samsung Messages. Your ability to activate it solely depends on your carrier activating the "Advanced Messaging" services for the stock Samsung app. So whether you're using the Galaxy Z Fold 3 or the Galaxy S20, your mileage may vary when it comes to receiving these features.When the time comes, you will be presented with a splash screen giving you the option to opt-in. The screen doesn't specifically ment...

Huawei is really going for style on this one.What you need to knowThe Huawei P50 Pocket leaks in new press images, showing the complete external design.The phone has a circular camera array with a circular external display.Huawei is reportedly using a rigid OLED to offset the cost of a circular display.Huawei is gearing up to launch a new clamshell foldable phone to counter the Galaxy Z Flip 3, and the latest leaks show off an impressive-looking device.The leaked images were spotted by leaker Ice universe and posted on Weibo by Harper's Bazaar, showing off a smartphone with a fashionable look with some unique design choices. Most notably, P50 Pocket sports a circular display next to a circular triple camera array. This is likely to match the design principles introduced in other P50 models, which distribute its rear cameras between two circular modules.Huawei P50 Pocket pic.twitter.com/KCYt4zF68T— Ice universe (@UniverseIce) December 16, 2021Ross Young, CEO of Dis...

We already know the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are the first choice in over-the-ear wireless headphones with crisp audio clarity, plenty of bass, and some of the best noise-canceling in the business. The problem is that these rather large headphones aren't really designed for workouts. Luckily, you can buy a new set of Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones and get a free set of WI-SP500 sports in-ear headphones for just $249.99 at Amazon. And if black's not your style, you can also get this deal in silver.Sony has been making some of the best headphones in the world for decades and has brought its expertise into the digital age with some of the best Bluetooth headphones you can get. In fact, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are some of the best wireless headphones you can buy and they work great with Android.With Sony's app, you can set up precise noise canceling and enable LDAC for high-resolution audio at up to 990kbps. These headphones also support Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa integrati...

Best answer: The public preview for Project xCloud ended on Sept. 11, 2020. Now, cloud gaming has moved to beta status for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers while Microsoft spins up its resources to meet the incoming demand. However, if you're a Game Pass Ultimate subscriber, you can download the new Game Pass app from the Play Store, pair up a compatible controller, and get gaming!Full cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate listA Plague Tale: InnocenceAI: The Somnium FilesAragami 2ArchvaleArt of RallyAstria AscendingArk: Survival EvolvedAtomicropsAstroneerBanjo-KazooieBanjo-TooieBanjo-Kazooie: Nuts and BoltsBack 4 BloodBatman: Arkham KnightBattlefield VBattletoadsBeholder Complete EditionBlack DesertBlair WitchBleeding EdgeBlinx: The Time SweeperBloodrootsBoyfriend DungeonBreathedgeBridge Constructor PortalBug Fables: The Everlasting SaplingCall of the SeaCarrionCartoCelesteChildren of MortaCities: Skylines - Xbox One EditionClusterTruckCod...

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 StudioBluepoint GamesFirespriteGuerrilla GamesHousemarqueInsomniac GamesSIE London StudioMalaysia StudioMedia ...

With the ease at which you can remove your PS5 faceplate covers, it's great to know that there are many alternatives available, both official and aftermarket. But with the uncertainty that comes with veering away from the default option, where should you start? Whether you're dissatisfied with the original white color or just looking for a different option to help spruce up your new console, our guide on the best PS5 faceplates is here to help you get your console looking its best.The real dealOfficial PS5 Console CoversStaff PickAfter a long wait, official PS5 plates are finally here in various colors. As well as having covers sporting the official logo, those wishing to purchase licensed plates can be sure they're getting products of the highest quality. Pre-orders are available now, and the option to purchase a PS5 controller in each new color ensures you'll have a satisfying and complete package in your shade of choice.$55 at PlaystationJoining the dark side...

Feel smart with a pair of connected glasses that fits your lifestyle.Thinking about picking up a pair of smart glasses in the near future, or maybe you just want to learn a bit more about this fledgling technology? Smart glasses are both a specific category and a catch-all term at the same time, further lending to the confusion that surrounds the current state of any kind of tech-laden lenses that sit upon your nose.Never fear, because we're here to explain them all to you and help you pick the best smart glasses from each category. Whether you just need a cool pair of shades like the Razer Anzu that lets you take phone calls without having something in your ears at all times, or actually want to be immersed in a second digital world with a giant 220-inch virtual screen like Nreal Light can offer, the smart glasses category has something for just about everyone and every budget.Jump to:Audio glassesSocial glassesSmart assisted reality glassesAR glassesAudio glasses...

Bring the classic arcade action you remember to your phone with these great fighting games!Fighting games have fallen to the wayside on the latest consoles (and the less said about the state of arcades the better) but for a long while, fighting games reigned supreme in the video game world. They were often the battleground where gamers showed off their skills in arcade tournaments or huddled around a TV with your best pals. Fortunately, the genre is still well-represented on mobile devices, with a great mix of ports and original titles to satisfy fans of fisticuffs.Here's hoping we see more ports of classic fighting titles but until then, enjoy these great fighters. And when you're done here, be sure to head over to the best Android games list to check out some other great games!The gamesBrawlhallaFighting Tiger - LiberalFinal FighterInjustice 2King of Fighters '97King of Fighters ALLSTARMortal KombatPrizefightersReal Boxing 2Real Steel World Robot BoxingRowdy Wr...

New ways to save this holiday season.What you need to knowGoogle is launching new shopping features to the Chrome browser on mobile and desktop.The Chrome tabs view will show updated prices on items to help find good deals.Google is adding quick access to Lens from the Chrome address bar.Chrome will now help users keep track of their carts from multiple sites.The holidays are upon us, and while many people are done with their shopping, there are still plenty of great last-minute deals around that are worth taking a look at. Google knows this, which is why it's introducing several new features for Chrome to help users find the best deals and better manage their carts.This week, Google is making the Chrome tab view much more helpful in tracking prices on items. If you have tabs open on product pages, Chrome will now alert you of price changes so you can quickly check if an item you've been considering gets a nice discount. This way, Chrome can help you make a move on a n...