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Available today alongside the Season of the Lost.What you need to knowDestiny 2 now supports cross-platform play starting today.Cross-platform play includes Stadia, PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.The feature comes as the game kicks off its 15th season, Season of the Lost, today.Destiny 2 now fully supports cross-platform multiplayer between Stadia and other platforms, developer Bungie announced during its Destiny 2 Showcase 2021 livestream on Tuesday.The free-to-play online multiplayer shooter can now be played with friends across the Stadia, PC, PlayStation, and Xbox versions at no additional cost. The Stadia version has supported cross-platform saving since 2019, which allowed players to migrate progression and rewards between platforms, but not cross-play Bungie had announced cross-play support would be coming sometime in 2021 last year, but could not confirm an exact date.A big criticism of Destiny 2 on Stadia, which was one of the launch titles for the cloud streaming p...

Chromebooks have come a long way in the last few years. Once considered cheap and very limited computers, these computers have grown into devices with a full range of choices to handle the needs of most anyone. This was illustrated when, in 2020, Chromebook sales overtook Macs. Because these devices have matured so much, many people use them as their primary computer for work. This means you may need to use to scan a document with a Chromebook from time to time. Well, here's how to get that done.How to scan documents with a ChromebookWhen Google added native scanning to Chromebooks in April 2021, the process of getting a physical document onto your computer got much easier. Let's get started with your Chromebook and scanner powered on and on the same Wi-Fi network — or the scanner is plugged into your Chromebook if dealing with a USB document scanner.Load the document you want to scan into your scanner.Press the Everything Button, between the tab and shift buttons, or click...

You can get a lot of phone for a modest price these days, and to prove it, we've rounded up a list of the best Android phones under $300 for your consideration. Motorola has been a leading name in mid-range options for years, and that holds true with its excellent Moto G Power (2020). You get capable specs with a big display and simple software that anyone can figure out for an extremely competitive price. Plus, it has a massive battery and convenient USB-C charging.Best overall Android phone under $300: Moto G Power (2020)Motorola launched a few different Moto G phones for 2020, but the one that stands out as the best pick for most people is the Moto G Power (2020). This phone nails all the basics, has a very affordable price, and a cool trick up its sleeve — battery life.A 5,000 mAh battery is crammed inside of the Moto G Power, meaning you can get between two and three days of use out of the phone before needing to charge it up. In a world where a lot of $1,000 flagships...

Experience Final Fantasy IV's original 2D style with updated graphics and gameplay.What you need to knowFinal Fantasy IV, the latest game in the Pixel Remaster collection, is set to launch on September 8.The game will feature quality of life updates, but will otherwise show off the gameplay that had a huge influence on the rest of the series.The remaster is based on the original 2D release, not its 3D remake from 2007.The Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster is getting its fourth title at the beginning of next month, as Square Enix prepares to launch yet another of its classic JPRG titles on mobile. Final Fantasy IV is launching on Android, iOS, and Steam on September 8, and will be available to buy on the Google Play Store.Final Fantasy IV is the story of Cecil, a knight who becomes disillusioned with the tyrannical despot he initially serves and goes on a crusade to dethrone him. Along the way, he'll be assisted by his best friend Kain, his girlfriend Rosa, and a big party of o...

Wil Wheaton carries this silly spy spoof sequel.I Expect You to Die was the first VR game I ever played. I'd tried experimental VR films and "experiences" at festivals, but I vividly remember sitting in a car on a cargo plane, feeling like I'd stumbled into an escape-the-room flash game come to life. The immersive environment, amusingly violent deaths, and fully interactive environments made me see VR's potential, setting me on the path to becoming the VR nerd I am today.So while my colleague previewed the game demo, I wasn't going to pass up my chance to review the full sequel and see how it lived up to my nostalgic expectations. Having only just finished Arcsmith, which I called the best VR puzzle game of 2021, I hoped that I Expect You to Die 2 would give it an immediate challenge for that title.I Expect You to Die 2: The Spy and the Liar is more of a AAA game, with a more dramatic, action-packed story to accompany the puzzle solving. It has better graphics, more varied game...

Along with a warning, Meet will also provide steps that will help reduce the echo.What you need to knowGoogle Meet will now notify you whenever it detects a notable echo from your system.Along with a red dot on the more options button, you'll also receive a text notification. The feature will take around two weeks to reach everyone. Google has announced a useful new feature that makes it easier to "identify and fix when an echo is happening in Meet video calls." While Meet already "intelligently controls the audio" in calls to remove any echo, it could still happen sometimes. Google Meet will now notify users when it detects a notable echo that may be heard by other participants in the call. If your device is causing an echo, you'll see a red dot on the more options button at the bottom of the screen, along with a text notification.Once you click on the notification, you'll be taken to the Google Meet Help Center, where you can find recommended steps to reduce the echo....

The best prepaid phone plans eliminate the things you don't need while keeping all the features that matter most. The days of being locked into a lengthy wireless contract are over, as there are a plethora of prepaid options that allow you to pay for your phone service on a month-to-month basis. We've taken the liberty of breaking down the top prepaid wireless options for you in this handy guide.Check your coverageOne of the first things you should consider when deciding on a prepaid carrier is the coverage provided in your area. Prepaid carriers often have a smaller coverage map than postpaid carriers because of their limited roaming agreements, so it's good to re-check your area, even if you've used the carrier before.Your phone will need to support the network your prepaid carrier uses as well. Luckily, most of the best Android phones are unlocked and support these networks. Getting an unlocked phone also makes it easier to switch carriers if you ever need to.Jump to:...

It's back in stock and better than ever — all for the same price.What you need to knowThe new Oculus Quest 2 128GB model is now available at major retailers and Oculus.com for $299.The 128GB model replaces the 64GB model without increasing the price.A new silicone face cover is now included with each Quest 2 because of a recall on the original foam face pads.It was only one month ago when Facebook pulled the Oculus Quest 2 from store shelves due to an issue with the foam face pad that shipped with the VR headset. While this wasn't a traditional recall since it didn't require customers to send the product in for replacement, Oculus offered a free silicone cover to help folks who were having issues with the foam pad.Meanwhile, all Quest 2's were pulled from shelves so that the same silicone pad could be placed inside, and now the Quest 2 is back on shelves with that new pad in the box. In addition to that, Facebook has retired the 64GB model, replacing it with a 128GB mod...

Google Maps is an amazing service that we're lucky to have, but sometimes people want to stop Google from storing their location data. Despite its obvious utility, the fact that Google Maps collects so much personal information makes many people nervous. If you want to know how you can take control of your location data, we've got you covered.Jump to:How to stop Google Maps from storing your locationHow to use Your Data in MapsHow to stop Google Maps from storing your location on the webHow to stop Google Maps from storing your locationThere are a few different ways that you can take control of your digital privacy and stop Google from storing your Maps location data. We'll show you all the different ways you can do so from within the Google Maps app.Turn on Incognito modeIf you want to limit your map search, browsing, and location history temporarily, consider enabling Incognito mode. Here's how to do that.Open the Google Maps app.Tap on your avatar icon in...

It also showcased its own air charging system and in-car connectivity features.What you need to knowOPPO has showcased its first magnetic wireless charging solution dubbed MagVOOC.It comprises a charging stand, a MagSafe-like portable charger, and a power bank.The company also unveiled a new truly wireless charging system that can charge a phone from across the room.OPPO has announced three new magnetic wireless versions of its VOOC fast-charging system, called the MagVOOC series. As its name implies, the magnetic wireless charging solutions offer an alternative to Apple's MagSafe charging technology.The MagVOOC line-up was demonstrated at an event in China, consisting of an ultra-slim portable charger, a power bank, and a vertical charging stand. The portable magnetic charger notably bears a resemblance to MagSafe, although it has more charging output at 20W than Apple's contender (15W). OPPO says it "adopts a split design making the whole charger thinner."On the other...

Fortnite eschews originality by ripping off Among Us with their 'Imposter' mode. The crew also go Poké Balls deep into everything announced at the August 2021 Pokémon Presents.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Among Us devs react to Fortnite's shameless 'Impostor' mode rip off | Windows CentralEverything announced at the August 2021 Pokémon Presents | iMorePokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl dazzle in new gameplay, new features detailed | iMoreGhost of Tsushima Director's Cut on PS5 review: Steep entry cost to a great expansion | Android Central...

Now that the Pixel 5a is finally here, it's time to make sure that the best Pixel is protected. Chances are you've already grabbed one of the best Pixel 5a cases, but to complete the ensemble, you'll want to get the best Pixel 5a screen protectors. Thankfully, there are plenty of different options to choose from, and we've rounded up our favorites.The bestFerilinso Screen Protectors (5-pack)Staff pickThere's more to protecting the Pixel 5a than just the big slab of glass on the front. This kit from Ferilinso includes three screen protectors for the main display, but also includes two more for the rear camera module, which have been made to avoid any type of distortion.$6 at AmazonPlastic shieldSupershieldz PET Clear Shield (6-pack)Tempered glass screen protectors aren't for everyone, and thankfully Supershieldz makes some great PET film screen protectors. Not only do you get six of these in a single pack, but they are extremely easy to install, and they add ...

Packing a punchSamsung Galaxy Buds 2$150 at AmazonProsBold soundEffective ANCVery comfortable fitGood battery lifeNice color optionsConsIPX2 rating isn't very durableMicrophones are so-soFinicky controlsSamsung trimmed down the original Galaxy Buds to make the Galaxy Buds 2, and it makes a real difference in fit and comfort. It also added solid audio performance to round out an effective package anyone can enjoy. You shouldn't use these for tough workouts, but you will like that you get more features in spite of the smaller frame.Cover more groundSamsung Galaxy Buds Pro$159 at AmazonProsBolder soundSolid ANC performanceDynamic ambient mode360 audio abilitySignificant water resistanceConsFit requires more fidgetingProprietary ear tips Slightly lower battery lifeSamsung pulled out all the stops to make the Galaxy Buds Pro as premium as they can be, and when you put them on, you do feel like you're getting something extra. Dyna...

The phone is expected to be largely identical to the global Redmi 10.What you need to knowThe Redmi 10 Prime will debut in India on September 3.It is expected to be a slightly tweaked version of the Redmi 10. The phone will succeed last year's Redmi 9 Prime. Xiaomi's Redmi sub-brand announced its first entry-level phone with a 50MP camera last week, dubbed the Redmi 10. It now looks like that phone could soon make its way to India, but with a slightly different name.The landing page for the Redmi 10 Prime on the Xiaomi India website suggests the phone will not be very different from the global Redmi 10. The Redmi 9, which was unveiled in June last year, was launched in India as the Redmi 9 Prime with minimal changes. The global Redmi 10 is powered by a 12nm MediaTek Helio G88 chipset and sports a 6.5-inch FHD+ display featuring a 90Hz refresh rate. Despite being an entry-level device, it has a quad-lens camera system on the back with a 50MP primary sensor, an 8...

How will Samsung improve on the best phones of 2021?After a summer filled with mid-range phones, we're expecting to see some major flagships this fall, from the Pixel 6 to the iPhone 13. Naturally, we expect these phones to sell like hotcakes, but if Samsung's upcoming Galaxy phones stay on schedule, they're also not that far off. So should you wait for them?We don't have any hard information on the successor to the Galaxy S21 lineup. But the Samsung Galaxy S22 leakers are already out in full force, many of which have proven prophetic in the past. Rumored to have features like ray tracing and vapor cooling, the Galaxy S22 may be a full-fledged gaming machine masquerading as a phone if Samsung has its way. Then again, production shortages could prevent Samsung from adding some cool features, as you'll see below.It's slim pickings on Galaxy S22 rumors this early, but we know plenty of people are eager to learn more. So here's everything we know about Samsung's upcoming flagship, ...

The physical keyboard has a lot of functionality and can help you get a lot done — if you can use it in its cramped form.My first taste of the smartphone world came back in 2007 with the Blackberry Curve 8310. After using old-school flip phones (not the fancy versions like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3) and the candy bar-style phones with T9 typing, the full QWERTY keyboard on the Blackberry was amazing. However, the rise of Apple and Android smartphones, along with excellent on-screen keyboards, put a damper on the Blackberry party. But, the Unihertz Titan Pocket, running Android 11 and sporting a physical keyboard, is looking to satisfy the desire for a BlackBerry resurgence.Borrowing much of what made the keyboards on phones of yesteryear so great, the Titan Pocket brings a lot of tricks to those buttons aside from simply typing out a message. The keyboard isn't the only thing the Unihertz is hoping will draw smartphone users to its device.The battery to phone size ratio is ...

A look back at the past decade of Android design language.The Android OS has been around since 2008, and in that time, its UI has been reinvented several times over. The original Android 1.0 interface that debuted on the T-Mobile G1 — the very first Android phone — was barebones and pretty ugly by modern standards. It wasn't until Android 4.0, three years into the OS's lifespan, that there was any kind of overarching design language for Android phones.The look and feel of Android has been constantly evolving since then, often with baby steps forwards, but sometimes with giant leaps ahead, as occurred with the introduction of Material Design in 2014. Android 12 gives us the platform's third big, all-encompassing redesign in the form of Material You — an ambitious effort to make Android more personal, with individual color schemes plucked from the Material palette.As we enter the fourth design era of Android — following the early days, Holo and Material Design — it's ti...

You'll no longer have to switch to Messenger to make a voice or video call.What you need to knowFacebook is bringing back voice and video calling features to its main app.The features are now rolling out to some users as part of a test. Video and voice calling features were removed from the main Facebook app in 2014.Nearly seven years after disabling messaging features in its main app, Facebook has started a new test that brings back some of those features. According to Bloomberg, some users in the U.S. and a few other countries can now place voice or video calls directly from the main Facebook app on iOS and the best Android phones.A Facebook spokesperson confirmed the test to Android Central and said that users should continue using Messenger for a full-featured messaging, audio, and video call experience. We are testing audio and video calls within the Facebook app messaging experience so people can make and receive calls regardless of which app they're using.Wh...

Same screen, lower priceAcer Chromebook Spin 713 (CP713-2W)$529 at Best BuyProsVery bright 2K touchscreenPlenty powerfulUSB-C port on each sideFrequent salesConsDiscontinuedDon't pay list priceThe best premium Chromebook of 2020 is still a darn good Chromebook today, and it gets sales regularly now that the new version is here. While this model "only" has the 10th Gen Intel Core i5, I actually prefer this generation of the Spin 713 because you get a USB-C port on both sides. Just don't pay 2021 prices for a 2020 Chromebook; wait for it to hit $550 or below.Bringing the Thunder(bolt)Acer Chromebook Spin 713 (CP713-3W)$700 at Best BuyPros11th Gen Intel Core processorsThunderbolt 4 portsSlightly longer support lifeConsBoth TB4 ports on left sideMore expensiveAcer didn't really upgrade much inside the Spin 713 (2021). It upped the processor, swapped from USB-C to Thunderbolt 4 — except there's not much to take advantage of with the...

Using two-factor verification makes sure that you — and only you — have access to your Google account.In a world where we're constantly becoming more and more digital, maximizing the security of your online accounts is one of the most important things you can do, whether or not you have one of the most secure Android phones.A strong password is a good start, but if you want to take things to the next level, you need to use two-factor authentication. This adds another layer of privacy to your account, often requiring you to enter a randomized code every time you log into your account in addition to your password.Your Google account is likely one of the most important you have, and thankfully, setting up two-factor authentication for it is quick, easy, and can be done in a few different ways. We'll walk you through it all and show you how to enable 2FA on your Google account.How to set up Google Prompt two-factor authenticationGoogle allows you to use a variety of two-fac...

Finding the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 screen protector for your device will depend on a few important factors. First, make sure you're selecting a product that matches your case size (40mm or 44mm). Next, decide what type of screen protector you want. Common options include tempered glass for the screen and 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 oleophobic coating to reduce sweat and fingerprints.$8 at Amazon (44mm)$9 at Amazon (40mm)Banish bubblesSuoman Tempered Glass Screen Protector (4-Pack)Nobody likes a screen protector that l...

Xiaomi is all about Xiaomi in latest branding move.What you need to knowXiaomi has reportedly dropped its long-time "Mi" branding.The move was signaled by the recent launch of the Xiaomi Mix 4 and will apparently apply to future launches.Xiaomi products have used the Mi branding for a decade.The top smartphone brand has decided to make a major change, as Xiaomi shifts its products away from the "Mi" branding that they're known for.According to XDA-Developers, this change started with the recently announced Xiaomi Mix 4, and will continue with future releases. We've reached out to Xiaomi for more details on the name change, but a representative told XDA that it would apply to upcoming products like the rumored Mi 11T, which may well be called the Xiaomi 11T.Xiaomi has used the "Mi" brand for just about all of its products until now. Even a cursory glance at Xiaomi's U.S. website shows the "Mi" name just about everywhere, including the logo which was recently redesigned....

After a Coronavirus-enforced year-long postponement, the athletes are under starters orders for the 16th installment of the Paralympics, with a total of 539 events taking place over 22 sports.Read on for our full guide to getting a Tokyo 2020 live stream and watch all the Paralympics action from Japan online wherever you are right now.Just two weeks after the closing ceremony for the Olympics, it's now the turn of the world's best disabled athletes to take centre stage.From the brutal "murder ball" thrills of Wheelchair Rugby, to the almost serene precision of Boccia, its time for another fortnight of unmissable sporting action.Key stars to look out for include German long jumper icon Markus Rehm, US swimming superstar Jessica Long and the host nation's big hope for gold, wheelchair tennis star Shingo Kunieda.While the stage is set for a host of young athletes to break through into the sporting world's consciousness, there's also a whole host of big name paralympians return...

The browser's mobile version will make it easier to multitask as you do on a desktop.What you need to knowA new string of code reveals that Google Chrome will pick up support for a multi-window experience with Android 12.The upcoming feature will let you open a maximum of five instances of Chrome in split-screen mode.Each Chrome window will appear as a separate entry in the recent apps overview.Earlier this year, Google was spotted working on a more useful version of Android's split-screen feature that would let you group two apps together. You'll then be able to swap between another single app and the pair you've created.Now, an upcoming feature for Chrome on mobile will give you the option to open multiple instances of the browser when you turn on split-screen mode with Android 12. The new capability has been spotted in several strings of code submitted to the Chromium Gerrit, first spotted by XDA Developers.The latest revelation suggests you will be able to open up t...

Free Spotify users will have some limitations, though.Update, Aug 23 (5:00 p.m. ET): Some users already receiving new updateWhat you need to knowSpotify is launching its Wear OS app update soon.The update will allow Spotify users to download playlists and podcasts for offline listening.The update will arrive on watches running Wear OS 2.0 and above, including the new Galaxy Watch 4.Before Samsung launched the new Galaxy Watch 4, Spotify talked about launching an updated Wear OS app that will finally allow downloadable content for offline listening. Now that the Galaxy Watch 4 is official with Wear OS 3, Spotify is reaffirming its commitment to an improved app experience.The company announced in a blog post on Wednesday that it was preparing to launch the updated app for Wear OS users. With the update, Spotify Premium listeners will be able to download playlists, albums, and podcasts to their watch to enjoy tunes without being tied to a Wi-Fi or LTE connection.Free Spo...

Make your friends jealous and take some of the very best screenshots possible.Photo modes have become a stable of many video games, and it's a trend I see continuing for the foreseeable future. Of course, Sucker Punch made sure that Ghost of Tsushima has a good photo mode with plenty of options to get the perfect shot. While it lacks in a few areas, it makes up for in others like the ability to adjust the weather and time of day right down to the second.All Ghost Guides:Beginner's tips & tricksList of all outfits and armor Best techniques and upgradesAll enemies and their weaknessesHow to use photo modeList of every charm in the gameUnfortunately, the game doesn't explicitly tell you how to access the photo mode, so unless you search for it in the settings or just want to know what certain effects do, we'll help you out. Whether you're playing the original game or you're upgrading to the Director's Cut, it's the same process either way.Ghost of Tsushima How t...

Play Store reviews will be more tailored to you.What you need to knowGoogle has announced changes coming to the Play Store later this year.App reviews will soon be shown based on the user's location and device.The changes will begin rolling out in November.Google is making some changes to how Play Store reviews are being shown, which should provide users with a more tailored view.Later this year, reviews will be location-specific, meaning you'll only be able to see reviews from the country you're based in. Additionally, Google says that into next year, reviews will reflect the type of device being used to browse on, to better reflect the kind of experience you can expect from the app.Google says that the changes are being made "because the app experience can vary depending on the user's region and device type, aggregate ratings don't always tell the whole story." For example, you can view an app on a smartphone with great reviews, but the app experience on a tablet coul...

It can also gift apps and sync media files straight from VR.What you need to knowThe v32 update is gradually rolling out to Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2 headsets starting today.The update revamps features in the Oculus Move app and the friends list.It allows users to sync media files and gift apps to friends without taking off the VR headset.The August Oculus update launching today for Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2 users adds features to several apps that would normally require taking off the virtual reality headset to do.The v32 update overhauls the Oculus Move app introduced last November with more flexibility and sharing options. The Daily Goals have been changed to Weekly Goals, so users will be able to choose which days they want to work out during the week. Achieving the Weekly Goal will be highlighted on the redesigned Move Calendar.The fitness app is also revising Calorie Goals and Move Minutes to be easier for people starting out, and then will update the ...

As smartphones got bigger and selfies more crucial, PopSockets became a must-have. Now you can stabilize your phone without getting that dreaded cramp in your pinky finger, which can actually become an RSI. The PopSockets Swappable PopGrips have so many fun designs and last through me running around Disney World's heat and rain. But if you're in the market for something a little less round, here are some of the best PopSockets and phone grips.Best Overall: PopSockets Swappable PopGripsPopSockets are some of the most popular and widely-used phone grips on the market for a reason: they last a long time, really help reduce the stress on your hands, and come in more styles than you can shake a phone case at. PopSockets are also impressively affordable: even PopGrips with premium materials and franchised designs like Marvel superheroes and NFL teams still cost less than a large pizza. Once you pop a PopTop, you'll find it hard to stop.One of the more addictive aspects of PopS...

What you need to knowT-Mobile is giving customers a year of Apple TV for free starting August 25.Magenta and Magenta Max plans are compatible as well as Sprint Unlimited Plus and Premium.This offer is open to new Apple TV users as well as those with a current subscription.T-Mobile announced that it's giving customers on Magenta Unlimited plans a year of Apple TV+ for free. Starting on August 25, T-Mobile customers with a compatible unlimited plan can get a year of Apple TV+ for free. Apple TV+ normally costs $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year.Apple TV+ is home to a handful of popular original series such as Ted Lasso and The Morning Show. You can use Apple TV+ even if you don't have any Apple hardware thanks to support for many of the best streaming devices, including the PS5. Apple TV+ can also be shared by up to six family members.T-Mobile customers with Magenta or Magenta Max plans are eligible, including those on military or 55+ versions. These Magenta plans are some ...

Learn the way of the blade and slice your opponents down with ease.Almost every enemy you encounter in Ghost of Tsushima will fall into one of four archetypes: Swordsmen, Shieldsmen, Spearsmen, and Brutes. These don't only encompass Mongols, though. You'll also run into ronin, bandits, archers, and Mongol war dogs. Barring the dogs, these enemies will fall into one of the aforementioned categories too.All Ghost Guides:Beginner's tips & tricksList of all outfits and armor Best techniques and upgradesAll enemies and their weaknessesHow to use photo modeList of every charm in the gameTo learn different stances, you'll need to observe and kill Mongol leaders. The order they unlock is: Stone, Water, Wind, Moon. Each of these can then be upgraded further with stronger heavy attacks to deal even greater damage. Here's everything you need to know about the enemies you'll encounter.SwordsmenStance: StoneHeavy attacks using the Stone stance will deal extra stagge...

Samsung has been pushing its pedigree in the audio space, particularly with its growing line of earbuds as complementary pieces to its mobile devices. The Galaxy Buds Pro stand out as the best Samsung earbuds you can buy right now, but if your ears are looking for something else, there are other options to think about.Best overall: Samsung Galaxy Buds ProThe Galaxy Buds Pro are a combination of past features, with new tweaks sprinkled in, to create the best wireless earbuds from the company to date. It took a while for Samsung to get to this level of performance, and there are a number of reasons why it worked out this time. The design is very much in line with the Galaxy Buds and Buds+, only the slightly larger frame means the fit won't be quite as nestled and snug right off the bat. They're small, lightweight, and the matte finish on the inside makes them easier to grip. The IPX7 rating also makes these earbuds the most rugged Samsung has made for water and sweat resistance....

There are dozens of masks, helmets, and body armor that you can mix and match for Jin to wear.What's a samurai without some cool armor? Ghost of Tsushima has plenty of armor options that you can choose from that can be earned by completing various activities or found throughout the world. We've compiled a list of them, including newer pieces added in Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut, so that you can see what they look like and find out if you're missing any.Jump to:Body armorMasksHelmets and headbandsAll Ghost Guides:Beginner's tips & tricksList of all outfits and armor Best techniques and upgradesAll enemies and their weaknessesHow to use photo modeList of every charm in the gameIf any of the armor or masks seen below look different than yours, it could be because it is an upgraded version of the armor or it has been dyed another color. Certain headbands earned by completing haikus may have a different description depending on which lines you chose.B...

If you have small ears, chances are you find it difficult to get a pair of headphones that fit well. There are virtually endless choices out there for audio gadgets in 2021, but finding ones that work properly in smaller-sized ears can still prove to be a pain in the butt. That's why we've done our homework and created a list of our favorite headphones and earbuds that are worth spending money on, even if your ears are smaller than the average Joe.A Galaxy that fitsSamsung Galaxy Buds 2 True Wireless EarbudsStaff PickSamsung makes a strong case for having one of the best pairs of wireless earbuds with the Galaxy Buds 2, and in doing so, tries to accommodate smaller ears. With active noise cancelation (ANC), ambient mode, good sound performance, and solid battery life, there's a lot to like whenever you wear them. Add some color to the mix, and you've got some visual flair to go with it all.$150 at Amazon $150 at Best Buy $150 at SamsungDiamond-enhanced soundAnke...

The 4-1-1 on NBC's Peacock streaming serviceOfficially launched in July 2020, NBC's Peacock streaming service offers thousands of hours of entertainment programming, consisting of classic movies and television series, curated channels, live sports coverage, and next-day access to current series for free, with limited ads. You can also upgrade to a monthly Premium plan for even more exclusive content.Whether you're interested in trying Peacock or just want to know how it compares to other platforms, we've got you covered. Here's everything you need to know about Peacock.PeacockWant it. See it. Like it. Stream it.From $5/month at PeacockFind shows, movies, and live sportsNBC's Peacock streaming service gives users access to new and classic NBC series, as well as late-night talk shows, sports, and more. Try the free tier now, or sign up for one of the premium plansPeacock Streaming ServiceWhat is Peacock?How much does Peacock cost?Where is Peacock available?W...

Google Maps will show you how much money you'll need to spend on tolls, just like Waze.What you need to knowGoogle Maps will begin showing prices for tolls on your navigation route.Waze introduced a similar feature back in 2019.It is unclear if the feature will be available globally. Google Maps, one of Google's best Android apps, will soon become even more helpful for planning your driving route. As reported by Android Police, Google has sent a message to members of the Google Maps preview program, notifying them that it is working on a new feature that will automatically display estimated prices for tolls and "other potential expenses" on your navigation route. Members of the Google Maps preview program have also been asked to take a survey to help the Maps development team in implementing the feature.The message notes that estimated toll prices would appear along a drive route before the user selects it, which will make it easier for them to decide on a route. Currentl...

Slim and sleekNest DoorbellFrom $180 at GoogleProsWire-free setup with batteryWorks with other compatible smart home gearWeather-resistant design Thin and narrow designConsRequires Nest Aware subscription for full benefitsNo continuous 24/7 recording (only up to 10 days)The new Nest Doorbell is a great addition to any smart home, letting you see who is at the door and speak to them, whether you're home or not. The ability to distinguish among people, packages, animals, and cars, along with the vertical field-of-view, sets it apart.Ring of securityRing Video Doorbell 4$200 at AmazonProsWire-free setup with batteryWorks with other compatible smart home gearWeather-resistant designUseful Pre-Roll feature to see what happened before an eventConsMore expensive Requires Ring Protect subscription to get the most out of itCosting a bit more than the Nest Doorbell, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 has some compelling features that might sway yo...

The Oculus Quest 2 has a fogging problem. It's a common complaint on Reddit and VR forums, and something our own staff has encountered when playing active games that get you sweaty. Thankfully, there are some documented solutions to the problem, though some will require buying accessories. We're here to explain why your Quest 2 fogs up, and how to keep your Quest 2 from fogging at all.What causes lens fogging to VR headsets?You know how your car windshield fogs up on a cold morning? The same issue happens with your VR headset. Your lenses sit at room temperature, so when it suddenly comes in contact with a 98-degree Fahrenheit, sweaty forehead just a few inches away, the difference in temperature translates into condensation. Add in sweat from workout apps, an overly-warm foam interface, and a tight seal around your nose that blocks both light and fresh air, and it's no wonder your fogs keep fogging up!Despite all that, Quest 2 fogging shouldn't be a persistent problem if you h...

The Fitbit Charge 4 successor may pack some solid health monitoring capabilities for less than $200.What you need to knowThe key specs and price of the upcoming Fitbit Charge 5 have been revealed in a new leak.It is expected to retail for less than $200.The fitness tracker could feature ECG monitoring, built-in GPS, and more health monitoring capabilities.Fitbit's upcoming fitness tracker leaked more than a week ago, showing off a huge upgrade from the Fitbit Charge 4 at least in terms of design. A new leak now spills the beans on the key specs and price of the rumored Fitbit Charge 5.First spotted by Twitter tipster SnoopyTech, a promotional video apparently for the Charge 5 indicates that the fitness tracker will be more than just a typical fitness tracker. The wearable will apparently feature ECG (electrocardiogram) capabilities to monitor your heart rhythm for possible conditions.ECG monitoring is usually found in smartwatches since its debut on the Apple Watch Seri...

Wear OS at its bestSamsung Galaxy Watch 4$250 Preorder at SamsungProsImproved Wear OS 3Fast chipsetPairs well with Galaxy smartphonesBody composition sensorCapacitive bezel for easy navigationConsNo Google Assistant (yet)Some health features are Galaxy exclusiveMore expensiveOK battery lifeAs the first Wear OS 3 smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 4 takes Google's wearable platform to the next level with its powerful and efficient chipset, sleek design, and impressive health tracking features.Powerfully affordableMobvoi TicWatch E3$200 at AmazonProsSnappy performanceMore affordablePlenty of health featuresConsBulky designNo Wear OS 3 (yet)OK battery lifeFinicky sleep trackingThe Mobvoi TicWatch E3 runs Wear OS incredibly well thanks to the Snapdragon Wear 4100 processor and has many health features to take advantage of. It's also one of the more affordable "higher-end" Wear OS watches.Putting the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 agains...

The majority of the pre-orders for the two phones were from consumers in their 20s and 30s.Update, Aug 23 (12:20 p.m. ET): Samsung confirms its new foldables are seeing "strong global consumer demand"What you need to knowSamsung has reportedly received nearly half a million pre-orders for its new Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 phones in South Korea.Last year's Galaxy Z Fold 2 only received a total of 80,000 pre-orders in Samsung's home market. Korean media expects total pre-orders for the foldable duo to reach 800,000. Samsung's new Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 foldables are generating more interest among consumers in South Korea than the Galaxy S21 series. According to The Korea Herald, Samsung has received a combined 450,000 pre-orders for the two phones as of Sunday.Industry sources believe total pre-orders for the two foldables could even hit 800,000 if sales of unlocked units are included. For reference, Samsung received just 80,000 pre-orders for the Galaxy Z...

We're still in the early days of the foldable phone re-emergence, but there are a couple of options available if you want to buy in. These are no longer concepts or prototypes. They're complete phones that are on store shelves just like any other. Right now, the best overall option is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3, but it's far from your only option. These are the best foldable phones you can buy.Best overall foldable phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3Another year means that we've been graced with another Galaxy Z Fold: the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3. While it may not look like too much of an upgrade at first glance, Samsung actually packed a lot of improvements into this one. Firstly, it sought to squash any concerns about the durability thanks to the phone's new IPX8 water resistance and upgraded PET display.With the addition of water resistance and improved display, this marks the most durable foldable smartphone that we've seen to-date. And because of this, Samsung was able to b...

Feeling slimmerSamsung Galaxy Buds 2$150 at Amazon $150 at Best Buy $150 at B&HProsBolder soundEffective ANCVery comfortable fitGood battery lifeNice color optionsConsIPX2 rating isn't very durableMicrophones are so-soFinicky controlsSamsung put the Galaxy Buds 2 on a diet of sorts, and the smaller frame makes what were already comfortable earbuds feel like they're almost not there at all. You lose out on some durability, but win with active noise cancelation and better sound to make these earbuds among the best in their class.Still comfySamsung Galaxy Buds+$100 at Amazon $100 at Best Buy $100 at WalmartProsTried and true designOutstanding battery lifeComfortable fitLively color optionsMore affordable priceConsTouch controls can be finickyNo ANC supportLarger caseNot very durableSet to be discontinuedWhen Samsung first launched these earbuds, it made several corrective moves that put them on par with some of the best a...

Smartphone customers are feeling boxed out.What you need to knowOver the weekend, we polled AC readers to see how they felt about the new trend of smartphone companies not including phone chargers in the box.Over three-quarters of respondents said that they expect a charger in the box with a new phone.Fewer than a quarter said they didn't need or want a new charger, while less than 10% said that they didn't care either way.Ever since Apple and Samsung began removing chargers from the packaging of their high-end smartphones, technology pundits and regular people alike have had mixed opinions on the subject. Those market leaders (as well as the other companies who have begun to follow them) tout the saturation of chargers in the home and on the market as a major reason why they've decided to exclude the charging bricks. In addition, they say that removing them reduces packaging and shipping costs, which then theoretically get passed to the consumer (though this too is up for ...

The Pixel 5a isn't much of an upgrade over the 4a 5G, and it isn't launching everywhere. So what's going on?The Google Pixel 5a is finally here, and 2021's only mid-tier Pixel model is just a little bit different compared to last year's Pixel 4a. It's got a much bigger screen, a gigantic battery, and important table-stakes features like water resistance that were missing from the 4a.But a more important question than what the Pixel 5a is — it's pretty much just an upgraded Pixel 4a 5G, after all — is why it exists.Visually, this model clearly belongs to the previous generation of Pixels — the 2020 generation, as opposed to the newfangled Pixel 6 with its Google Tensor chip, high-end ambitions, and chunky camera visor.The Pixel 5a looks set to fill that all-important "cheap 5G phone" role for Google — so perhaps it makes sense that it's channeling that older Pixel 4a 5G style. It is largely the same phone, after all. The 5a uses the same Snapdragon 765G processor and a...

The DSM 7.0 update comes with a lot of exciting changes, including new features and better security. One of the security-focused changes is how the system handles root privileges; Synology now prohibits services like Plex Media Server and other packages from gaining root privileges, and has restrictions on file system access.While this is a welcome move, the security changes have led to issues with Plex installations. As a result, when you switch from DSM 6.2 to DSM 7.0, you will see a message to repair your Plex installation and migrate the data. Doing so is pretty straightforward, and you'll need to manually assign permissions so that Plex can see your media library and run in the background.Using Plex as a centralized media server is one of the best use cases for the NAS; I've outlined the best NAS for Plex to make the most out of streaming your media library to your connected devices. If you've made the switch to DSM 7.0 and are encountering issues with your Plex installation...

The company's next value flagship is set to be a solid upgrade over last year's Mi 10T Pro.What you need to knowXiaomi has teased the launch of its next affordable Android flagship.The Mi 11T series could debut at a global launch event on September 15. Rumors suggest Xiaomi's upcoming Mi 11T Pro will have a 120Hz OLED display and support 120W wired charging. Xiaomi today teased the launch of a new affordable flagship that could give the best Android phones from Samsung and OnePlus a run for their money. The phone is set to debut at a global launch event on September 15 and is likely to be a successor to last year's Mi 10T Pro.We promise this will be an exciting moment for all of you!Save the date, don't miss out! #XiaomiProductLaunch pic.twitter.com/DylGw33XSu— Xiaomi (@Xiaomi) August 23, 2021As per a video posted by Vietnamese YouTube channel The Pixel last week, the Mi 11T Pro will arrive with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipset and a 120Hz AMOLED display. Keeping t...

Best answer: Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is equipped with a sensor that can easily monitor your blood oxygen levels. This is thanks to a new, first-of-its-kind BioActive sensor.Track your blood oxygen levels with the Galaxy Watch 4Once upon a time, tracking for blood oxygen (SpO2) levels wasn't as common on wearables. In fact, unless you worked in the medical field or had a health condition that required ongoing monitoring of these levels, you might not have known the significance of this health metric.Today, some of the best Android smartwatches such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 offer detailed health tracking, including blood oxygen monitoring. These features are designed to give you an in-depth look at your overall well-being.You might be wondering about the purpose of this feature. Let's start with the basics. Monitoring your blood oxygen levels can give you an idea of how effectively your blood is carrying oxygen throughout your body. In turn, this information will ...

It's been another drama-filled summer of love, but now it's time for the remaining hopefuls to depart the Balearic Island of Majorca as the winners of this year's installment of the TV dating show are announced.Watch every match-making moment with our Love Island 2021 live stream guide below, and watch the show no matter where in the world you are.From the chaos of the Casa Amour re-coupling to the tense cinema movie challenge, the twenty-something contestants have had plenty of memorable moments over the course of the last eight weeks.Just six couples are now left to battle it out for the £50,000 prize money, with Liberty and Jake, Faye and Teddy, plus Mary and Aaron all making it through Tuesday night's episode, joining couples Millie and Liam, Chloe and Toby, and Kaz and Tyler in moving a step closer to winning this season's prize.Laura Whitmore will once again be on hand to host the concluding romantic action with comedian Iain Stirling providing his trademark sarcastic ...

Haven't been able to secure a PS5? You may have better luck getting a PS4 if you don't already have one and want to play those Sony exclusives.While the PS5 came out a few months ago, Sony's PS4 is still going strong. The juggernaut has sold well over 100 million units since it was released in 2013, and the pandemic has given more people the time to stay at home and play video games. Because of this, however, it can be difficult finding a PS4 in stock, and when you do, you may see consoles priced way too high. We've compiled a list of every major retailer selling the PS4 Pro and PS4 Slim across the United States, Canada, and United Kingdom so that you can hopefully grab one for yourself.If you absolutely don't care for a PS4 and are solely looking to pick up Sony's latest machine, you'll want to keep checking for PS5 restocks. Retailers get more availability occasionally, and although they sell out within minutes, you could get lucky.Jump to:PS4 stockBuy PS4 in the USBuy...