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Material You's bright, colorful aesthetic is too playful and user-empowering for Apple's walled garden.For every new feature in an iOS update, you'll find two "new" ones that Android users have enjoyed for years. iOS 15 will steal Android tools like smarter notifications, Live Text, and Google Assistant-like upgrades to Siri. iOS 14 also took Android features like widgets, PiP, an App Drawer, and app permissions, and put its own unique flair on them. Next year's WWDC will undoubtedly sell innovative advancements that Android users find familiar.I'm not interested in weighing the ethics or comparing iOS's software quality to Android's. Google and Apple have a symbiotic relationship, and the more Apple adopts Android features, the more its customers could see Android as a cheaper-but-viable alternative. Plus, Google sometimes follows Apple's lead on new features, such as its Privacy Dashboard. Imitation is part of the industry. Material You may be the one Android feature that A...

Fossil and Mobvoi better shake a leg.What you need to knowOver the weekend, we asked AC readers if they plan to get a Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 as soon as it comes out in order to get the new Wear OS experience or if they'd wait to see it on other devices.Nearly three-quarters of respondents said they want Wear OS 3 sooner than later.Almost ten percent said they weren't interested in Wear OS at all.Ever since we learned the exciting news from Google that several existing smartwatch OEMs like the Fossil Group and Mobvoi would have the opportunity to upgrade the Wear OS experience on their existing devices, we've been curious if this will affect those considering upgrading to one of the newer best Android smartwatches, or if they'll hold out to see how these updates look on their current watches.In our weekend poll, over 71% said that they want Wear OS 3 now, indicating that they're ready to purchase the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 as soon as it's available. A little over 11% s...

Smart lights can be great, but when they aren't — my wife is less than enthused.It's no secret that I'm a fan of smart home gadgets. Even when these bits of technology frustrate me, I keep using them. I look for ways to integrate everything from using some of the best smart speakers to sensors into my home. I do this for multiple reasons, including adding automation and lighting flexibility, but smart lights are some of my most enjoyed devices. Finding new ways to integrate these lights into my entertainment area setup is my favorite use for smart lights — even if it slightly annoys my wife.Over the years, I have slowly added more and more lights to my entertainment area to give it a fun ambiance. At first, it began with just a few Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance bulbs in my living room ceiling fan. But it didn't take long before I realized that this option wasn't going to be a good idea for a couple of reasons. One is because they were the 2nd-gen bulbs and the colors...

Google released Android 2.3.7 Gingerbread in September 2011.What you need to knowGoogle will begin blocking logins on devices running Android 2.3.7 or lower starting September 27.Google says the move is part of its ongoing efforts to keep its users safe. Users will receive a username or password error when trying to sign in on older Android versions.Google has announced that it will no longer allow sign-in on Android devices running version 2.3.7 or lower starting September 27 (via Bleeping Computer).If you try to sign in with your Google account on Android 2.3.7 Gingerbread or below after September 27, you will get username or password errors when accessing Google services such as Gmail, YouTube, and Maps.The following actions will also be no longer possible on devices running Android 2.3.7 or older versions:Perform a factory reset and try to sign in.Change the Google account password on the device or on another device, which signs you out everywhere else. You wil...

Slack Huddles is actually pretty awesome.If you're like me, you've been stuck at home during this pandemic. Many employees have started returning to the office, but plenty remain working from home, relying on telecommunication services like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, among others. Android Central's Ara Wagoner listed Slack as one of the top 10 apps that rules her phone and her life, and that's definitely true for a lot of us. However, one of the downsides of working from home is that interactions can sometimes feel very impersonal, making it hard to really connect with co-workers. That's why I was cautiously optimistic when Slack Huddles was introduced, but that optimism turned into plain joy. Slack wants to bring casual office chats to your home, and it just might work.Slack Huddles was announced at the end of June as a way to bring back casual office chats in our current work-from-anywhere world. You know, the kind of thing that happens when you pass by a cowo...

New images show off the design of the Galaxy Watch 4 but don't reveal much about Wear OS.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy Watch 4 Classic has been leaked in real-world photos.The live images show off Wear OS/One UI Watch on the actual smartwatch.Samsung is set to unveil the next-generation smartwatch at its Galaxy Unpacked event.Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked, which is scheduled on August 11, is expected to see the debut of its new foldable smartphones as the main highlight. The company is also set to introduce the Galaxy Watch 4 running the One UI-based Wear OS at the event, and now we've got our first real-world look at the operating system.Live images obtained by 91mobiles claim to reveal the rumored Galaxy Watch 4 Classic edition with Wear OS on board. The photos show black and silver watches with rounded bezels, corroborating the previously leaked renders. The smartwatch is also rocking the same stainless steel material used for the earlier Watch models, as well as t...

Not everyone is well-versed in multiple languages. Thanks to modern technology, we can overcome language barriers with a simple Android app on your phone. The Google Translate app is super user-friendly and translates various mediums such as text, pictures, and audio. For example, you can save your translated audio transcripts in the Google Translate app. Here's how you can keep those transcripts inside the app on your Android phone.Products used in this guideThe best translation app: Google Translate (Free at App Store)How to save a transcript in the Google Translate app on AndroidOpen Google Translate on your Android phone.Tap Transcribe to translate the audio.Once the audio has been translated and transcribed, tap the star on the upper right corner.Type the name you want to save your transcript under.Tap Save.To find your saved file, tap the three lines on the upper left corner of the app.Look for the Saved transcripts option and tap it to find your saves....

Enabling call forwarding on Google Fi is quick and easy, making Fi a great choice for a backup line. It's also one of the best cell phone plans you can get for international roaming. If you still want to make sure you get your calls on another device, you can use Google Fi's call forwarding feature from the app or web page. It's quick to set up and can be toggled as needed after that.How to enable call forwarding on Google FiBefore getting started, there are a couple of things to know. First, your Google Fi account will need to be active to use call forwarding. Second, if you signed up for an unlimited plan but didn't plan on using your Fi data for a while, you can switch to the Flexible plan to save some money.This guide will use the Google Fi app, but you can also do this on the web by signing in to your Google Fi account at fi.google.com. Once signed in, click settings, then call forwarding to follow along starting on step 3.Open the Google Fi app on Android or iOS and si...

"Oh, that's easy to turn off if you don't like it" is the biggest lie in Android.This Sunday morning, I am hopefully sleeping in my own bed again after three weeks in Texas visiting family and friends. Going home is always fun in seeing what's changed, what hasn't, and what tech support I can do in person instead of over the phone half a continent away. I got some Fredericksburg peaches — which are the best on the continent, sorry, Georgia — I caught up with friends I haven't seen in years, and I got a nice dose of reality when helping my parents with their Android phones and laptops.I have been an Android user since early 2012 and have been writing Android how-to guides since 2014, so I like to think I've got a pretty good grasp on the ins and outs of just about every core Android feature and Google service. But trying to troubleshoot some wonk on my dad's Pixel 3a XL surrounding Quick Settings and his Golf Pad app — which may be one of the worst app UIs I've seen in years...

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced developers to adapt their work pipelines and finish games from home. This has led to multiple delays.Last year began with a slew of high-profile game delays, most notably Cyberpunk 2077 and the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, but then COVID-19 struck and threw the games industry through a loop. Now that we're into 2021, we'll only be seeing more delays as developers truly begin to understand the effects of the pandemic on their work pipeline. One of the first major delays to come this year was Hogwarts Legacy, being pushed into 2022.We've compiled a list of every game that has been delayed into 2021 and beyond. Some of these games have been delayed indefinitely, while others have release windows or a final release date.We'll continually update this list as more games are delayed.Jump to:Back 4 BloodDeathloop Destiny 2: The Witch QueenDying Light 2Far Cry 6Five Nights at Freddy's: Security BreachGhostwire: TokyoGod of War RagnarokGotham Kn...

One of the biggest perks of having a PlayStation Plus membership is the free games you get every month. The free PlayStation Plus games offered this month include three major titles, all available on either the PS4 or PS5. Check out the list of games below, with downloads available starting August 3. Enjoy the price of free until August 31, 2021.★Survive at all costsHunter's Arena: LegendsHunter's Arena: Legends is this month's game for both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 and is a 30 player PvP & PvE combat-based battle Royale that's set in an ancient age of humanity. Players will battle it out against each other, as well as against a growing legion of demons that have been unleashed upon the world. Take down demons to continue powering yourself up, but be careful to keep an eye out for any real enemies you'll come across.See at PlayStation★ A fight for the neighborhoodPlants vs. Zombies: Battle for NeighborvillePlants vs. Zombies: Battle for Ne...

Favoutrites and reigning champs Mexico go head-to-head with hosts USA as this year's Concacaf Gold Cup reaches its grand finale.Read on for full details on how to get a live stream of the Concacaf Gold Cup 2021 final no matter where you are in the world with our USA vs Mexico guide below.Gregg Berhalter's USA side have conceded just the one goal on their route to the final.The Stars and Stripes nevertheless left it late to book their place in today's showpiece, after they were taken to the wire in their semi-final against the tournament's guest side Qatar, with Gyasi Zardes 86th minute strike proving decisive.Mexico were also made to fight for their spot in tonight's clash, with Hector Herrera's slick finish in the ninth minute of added time broke Canada's hearts as El Tri went through with a 2-1 win.Key to Mexico's hopes will be the midfield triumvirate of Jonathan dos Santos, Edson Alvarez, and Hector Herrera who have increasingly impressed as the tournament has unfolded....

Xbox Game Pass cloud streaming is now available for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members. What was formerly known as xCloud in beta allows players to stream games to their Android phones without worrying about downloads. If you have a Game Pass Ultimate membership, the process of streaming is incredibly simple. If a game doesn't support touch controls, all you'll need to do is connect a Bluetooth controller, and you'll be ready to go. We'll show you how to stream Xbox Game Pass to Android. Let's get started.How to stream Xbox Game Pass (xCloud) to your Android phoneDownload the Xbox Game Pass app through the play store.Update the app if it hasn't already been updated. Sign-in to your Microsoft account.If you don't already have a Game Pass Ultimate membership, you'll need to upgrade. Select Cloud on the bar between Cloud, Console, and PC.Select which game you'd like to play. Connect a Bluetooth controller if you haven't already.Enjoy!It really is as simple as that. ...

We've reached the halfway point in Formula 1's 2021 season and drivers and teams will be in Hungary for what looks to be a heated Hungarian Grand Prix this weekend and we have all the details on how you can watch the race on TV or online.The ongoing rivalry between Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull's Max Verstappen came to a head earlier this month at the British Grand Prix when the two drivers collided during the first lap of the race. While Verstappen crashed his car into the tire barrier and was taken to the hospital, Hamilton went on to take the podium after passing Ferrari's Charles Leclerc with just three laps left in the race.As Verstappen is currently in first place with 185 points with five wins and eight podiums, winning this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix could be enough to move Hamilton out of second place and back to the top of the standings. Hamilton also currently holds the best lap record at the Hungaroring with a time of one minute and sixteen seconds which h...

No one likes encountering slow, unstable connections when playing on their PS5. If you've checked your router and everything seems fine, it might be your NAT. If you've got a Strict NAT type, it can block you off from connecting to many players online, which will increase search times for matches and make it more difficult to play with friends. Here's how to change your NAT type on PS5.How to change NAT type on PS5First, you'll want to check just what NAT type you actually have. If you've already got an Open NAT, chances are your problems aren't related to the NAT. If you're on Wi-Fi, try using one of the best Ethernet cables for PS5 for a hardwired connection instead. Now, here's how you can check your NAT type:How to check NAT type on PS5Turn on your PS5. Go to Settings.Select Network.Under Connection Status, select View Connection StatusAlternatively, you can select Test Internet ConnectionEither way, you'll be given your NAT information, alongside other useful...

Those of you who've travelled to China in the past have more than likely experienced the effects of the Great Firewall - a controlled censoring of the internet which blocks a number of websites and services popular in the western world. The best VPN (Virtual Private Network) services can help you with this.Whether you're there on business or vacation, having the likes of Instagram, Facebook, Skype and WhatsApp blocked means you won't be able to keep in touch with family and friends back home. With streaming services like Netflix blocked too, you may find yourself more than a little bored in your hotel room.With this in mind, setting up a virtual private network (VPN) is a no-brainer for those travelling to China, as it'll unblock all the sites you need to get your fix. The use of a VPN is, as expected, not exactly kosher, so we're not condoning it ourselves. We have, however, rounded up five of the best options, if you decide to explore your choices.How does a China VPN get me ac...

Google brought a really cool gesture to Pixel 5 devices on Android 12 where users can tap the back of their phones to do certain tasks. It's called Quick Tap, and you can customize it to do actions like take a screenshot or open a select app of your choosing. If you have a compatible Pixel and want to use this gesture, here's how to customize it to your liking.How to customize back tap gestures on a Google Pixel phoneOpen Settings on your Pixel.Tap System.Select Gestures to locate the relevant options.Once you're in the gestures settings, tap Quick Tap .Make sure the Use Quick Tap toggle is switched on.Select the custom action of your choice from the list.While scrolling through the Quick Tap settings, you'll notice that there's an option to require stronger taps. This can be useful if you keep triggering the gesture by accident.Tap awayNow that you've discovered what your Pixel 5 can do, have some fun with it. Oftentimes, gestures end up being more gimmicky than...

Other Wear OS smartwatches will be upgraded long after the Galaxy Watch 4 launches.Wear OS 3 was in a weird state of limbo for a while, which only the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 confirmed to be released with the upgrade. Now, Google has confirmed other smartwatches, current and upcoming, will eventually be updated as well. The last time we asked about upcoming Wear OS watches, our readers leaned toward the Galaxy Watch 4. So now we want to know if the recent Wear OS update news has changed anything.Are you still holding out for the Galaxy Watch 4?As it stands, it seems that the Galaxy Watch 4 may be the only smartwatch with Wear OS 3 for a while, at least officially. There are rumors of a Google Pixel Watch, but nothing is official, and rumors are scarce. Fitbit has also indicated that it will launch a Wear OS device, but we don't know when it's expected.Fossil has been a bit more forthcoming about its plans. The company currently makes some of the best Android smartwat...

If you've been working from home during the current global pandemic, then chances are you've been subjected to the awful realities of daytime television. From cheesy game shows to ancient reruns, lunch break viewing can fast become a rather painful experience. This is where the best YouTube VPN comes into play. It can help save the day and unblock YouTube for you quickly and easily.Best YouTube VPN appsExpressVPN: Best option for most peopleIPVanish: Balance of speed and performanceNordVPN: Best for the security-consciousSpeedify: Best for beginnersVyprVPN: Best for superfast speeds1. ExpressVPN: Best overall YouTube VPN for most peopleThis is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of speed, reliability, outstanding customer service, and affordability. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee, so give it a shot today.From $6.67/mo at ExpressVPN2. IPVanish: A great balance between speed and performanceFrom $3.75...

It appears that Google is finally getting into the smartwatch game with the first Pixel Watch this year — here's what we know so far.From the beginnings of Google's wearable strategy, it has always relied on other OEMs to carry the hardware torch for its software. However, that doesn't mean fans of Wear OS, and Android Wear before it, haven't been clamoring for an official smartwatch from the software giant.After years of rumors for a Google-branded wearable that always ended in disappointment for Wear OS fans, 2021 looks to be the year that a Google Pixel Watch may actually arrive alongside the Pixel 6 lineup. Here's what we know so far about the Pixel Watch.Jump to:Announcement & release datePriceModelsDesignSpecsPixel Watch: Announcement and release dateAs of right now, we don't have anything official from Google in terms of a Pixel Watch being released this year. However, far more leaks and information have pointed toward this being the year a Google...

The AirPods Max are Apple's first attempt to make its own branded over-ear headphones, and they don't come cheap. Those premium pair of cans enter a competitive field more than capable of taking them on, including established brands and models that have already proven themselves. If you've got your eyes on an alternative to what Apple has put out there, look no further than this group.Flagship cansSony WH-1000XM4 - Noise Canceling Overhead HeadphonesStaff PickThese headphones stand out for their superb — and improved — active noise cancelation (ANC) performance that does an even better job of blocking out background noise. They sound great, and there's an excellent equalizer in Sony's Connect app to tailor the experience. Improved call quality and the ability to simultaneously pair with two devices, plus solid battery life, rounds out an elite package.$348 at Amazon $350 at Best Buy $348 at B&HCanceling the noiseBose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 - Wireless B...

British & Irish Lions could seal a famous tour victory this evening as they take on the Springboks in Cape Town.Read on for your full guide to getting a live stream, and watch South Africa v British & Irish Lions Second Test rugby online from anywhere.The hosts felt they were hard done by with a succession of referee calls during the first Test in a match that saw them go down to a 22-17 defeat having led 12-3 at half-time and will be determined to save the series with a win today.Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus' outburst on social media criticizing the officials following the first Test has amped up the tension heading into this clash, with the hosts making a number of key changes to their starting line up with Jasper Wiese , Vincent Koch and Marco van Staden all drafter in.Chris Harris, Conor Murray and Mako Vunipola meanwhile are all set to start for the tourists, with Taulupe Faletau selected on the bench with Hamish Watson left out of the Lions' 23.It's se...

It's the same Google Meet, but now in app form. Sort of.What you need to knowGoogle Meet is now available as a Progressive Web App (PWA).The app is available on Chromebooks, Windows, macOS, and Linux.No additional features have been added, but users should have access to the same features as the website.Google Meet just got a neat upgrade to a Progressive Web App (PWA), as per a post on Google's Workspace blog.If you're not privy to PWAs, they're essentially websites that are made to look and act more like apps that you install. Instead of opening your browser to a specific website, PWAs have a spot among your installed applications.The Google Meet PWA doesn't add any new features, but Google says that as a standalone app, "it's easier to find and use, and it streamlines your workflow by eliminating the need to switch between tabs." Users should also be able to enjoy the same functionality and features, like the new layout and being able to set animated backgrounds in G...

As the welterweight title fight between Conor Benn and Adrian Granados has been postponed, Xu Can and Leigh Wood's featherweight title fight has been moved to the top of the card and we have all the details on how you can watch Can vs Wood online.The sports streaming service DAZN announced on Thursday that Benn vs Granados has been postponed to a later date after Benn tested positive for Covid-19. The company said that it will announce a new date for the pair's welterweight title fight soon.Tonight's fight marks the beginning of Matchroom Fight Camp which is back for a second year. During the height of the pandemic last summer, Matchroom Chairman Eddie Hearn decided to bring boxing to his back garden as no fans were permitted to attend live sporting events at the time.Last year Matchroom held a four-week schedule of fights and for Matchroom Fight Camp 2, the promotion will hold three events beginning this weekend with Can vs Wood followed by James Dickens vs. Kid Galahad next w...

You can now add your health data stats to Google Fit without relying on third-party apps.What you need to knowGoogle Fit has gained a new update which adds a new "Browse" tab.The new tab gives quick access to your health data stats under six categories.The update has also added "Material You" design elements to the app.Google has rolled out a new update for the Fit app that allows you to browse your health and fitness stats from your connected apps in a single location, thanks to the new "Browse" tab.The update is part of version 2.61 of the app, and it introduces a better way of managing your data than the previous iteration. The new Browse tab organizes your data into six categories: Activity, Body measurements, Vitals, Nutrition, Sleep, and Cycle tracking. The new interface makes it easier to access your health and fitness data in one of the best fitness apps for Android.Prior to this change, you had to dig through the app's homepage in order to locate the right card...

Things are heating up between Google and Microsoft.What you need to knowGoogle asked a federal judge to uphold a subpoena it served to Microsoft.The requested documents may aid Google in its ongoing antitrust case issued by the DOJ.Microsoft is pushing back against Google's request, saying it hasn't provided a specific reason for its additional requests.Google is asking that Microsoft comply with a request to hand over documents related to the search giant's ongoing antitrust case, according to a recent court document.The Google antitrust lawsuit was issued last October by the DOJ, alleging that Google holds an unfair monopoly over search on the internet and on the best Android phones, making it extremely difficult for anyone else to compete.While the proceedings aren't expected to take place until 2023, both sides are preparing to build their cases. While Microsoft is a key player in the case, as noted by Google, the company is reportedly holding back on providing docu...

Even among other tech and gaming equipment, the Oculus Quest 2 is very susceptible to damage. Whether you're protecting your headset from sunlight, scratches threatening your Quest's lenses, or just plain ol' gravity, a case is a necessity for any Oculus Quest 2 owner. Of course, Facebook and Oculus happen to have their own case, but several other manufacturers have also thrown their hats into the ring. Here are some of the best Oculus Quest 2 cases.Best overall: Oculus Quest 2 Carrying CaseIt's no coincidence that the official case leads the pack. While most cases are designed for the original Quest, this one was made with the slightly smaller Quest 2 in mind. Thanks to its compact, stylish design, the Official Quest 2 carrying case is ideal.It'll easily keep all your accessories secure in most situations, and there's room for everything here. Tuck away your headset, controllers, charging cable, and power adapter for safekeeping. The custom inlay is designed to hold everythi...

Google's Pixel smartphones are some of the best Android devices ever released, but if you're hoping to get your hands on one of these stellar devices at a discount, you should first take a look at the recently released Google Pixel 4a models. This model takes the best features of the Google Pixel 4 and places them in a more affordable package. Snagging a great deal on one isn't so tough either; we've gathered the best offers available right now and put them in a list just below. Then again, there are some excellent Pixel 5 deals to consider too if you'd rather purchase an upgraded model.Best Google Pixel 4a Deals Available NowPixel 4a 5G: as low as $15/monthPixel 4a: up to $100 offUnlike previous Pixel devices, there is no XL model of the Google Pixel 4a. However, its 5.81-inch OLED display is more than suitable for browsing the web, watching videos, playing mobile games, and more. The Pixel 4a is also equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 730 processor, 6GB LPDDR4x RAM, 1...

Making it easy to pair Bluetooth headphones with your ChromebookWhat you need to knowGoogle Fast Pair was spotted in the latest Chromium Gerrit Commit.Fast Pair makes it easier to pair supported Bluetooth headphones with devices.The feature is not yet available for testing, as it has not made its way to the Canary build.Announced in 2017, Google Fast Pair offers a swift and easy way to pair some of the best wireless earbuds the best Android phones. And thanks to a new Chromium Gerrit commit (via 9to5Google), this feature could be in a future Chrome OS release.According to the commit, Fast Pair will first arrive via the chrome://flags menu, which will need to be enabled once added to Chrome OS. Here's Google's description of what this flag will offer: Enables Google Fast Pair service which uses BLE to discover supported nearby Bluetooth devices and surfaces a notification for quick pairing. Use along with #bluetooth-advertisement-monitoring to allow background scanning...

Fast Pair is a technology that lets you quickly pair your best wireless earbuds and best wireless headphones to your Android phone without having to dig through multiple menus. Instead, simply place them into pairing mode and bring your headphones and phone close together. There aren't too many options on the market (yet), but the Harman Kardon Fly are the best we can find, thanks to their overall battery life, sound quality, and comfort. Here are some of our other favorites for the best Fast Pair headphones for Android.Best overall: Harman Kardon Fly ANCHarman Kardon makes headphones under its own branding, though you may not have known that, given the Samsung subsidiary's penchant for in-car audio. These were some of the very first headphones to support Google's Fast Pair feature, so you can bet the quick pairing process leads to a good head start. JBL is a Harman property, so there are some similarities here.The Fly ANC produce sound quality on par with JBL cans in the sam...

The Nest Hello doorbell, one of the best Ring video doorbell alternatives, is your window to the outside world (you know, aside from the actual windows on your home). That means it's actually outside all the time. It's a good idea to protect it or, at the very least, cover it so that it won't get weather-worn and scuffed. These are the best Nest Hello covers and wall plates for the popular video doorbell.Jazz it upElago silicone Google Nest Hello caseStaff pickThese silicone cases are UV-resistant and come in six colors to add a bit of pizzazz to an otherwise boring-looking device. Elago's cases will protect your doorbell from the elements, and it won't block the camera, microphone, or any other necessary components.From $9 at Amazon$12 at WalmartOn a pedestalElago Wall PlateElago's wall plates are a great backdrop to your Nest Hello. They come in four colors and are UV-resistant, double-coated for extra weather resistance, and they help to cover up any marks or ...

Tri-band advantageTP-Link Deco X68$250 at AmazonProsFast AX3600 Wi-Fi 6 connectionDedicated backhaulHomeShield includedDual Ethernet portsConsMore expensive for similar coverageThe TP-Link Deco X68 uses a third 5GHz Wi-Fi 6 band to keep the mesh speeds high even with multiple connected devices. With a tri-band AX3600 connection, this mesh kit has all of the speed of an AX1800 router with no mesh compromises. This means that you'll have access to gigabit speeds whether your device is connected to the base router or a remote node.Entry Wi-Fi 6 meshTP-Link Deco X20$225 at AmazonProsWi-Fi 6 connectionGreat price for Wi-FI 6HomeCare includedDual Ethernet portsConsDual-band connection limits mesh performanceThe TP-Link Deco X20 keeps things simple with an AX1800 dual-band connection. This setup will be adequate for more people with support for internet speeds over 500Mbps, which is more than enough for 4K streaming, video conferencing, ...

Best answer: ExpressVPN allows you to connect five devices simultaneously. You can install it on more devices than that, though you'll need to disconnect one device to activate a connection on another once you hit that limit. Alternatively, you can use ExpressVPN with your compatible Wi-Fi router to connect as many devices as you want.Connect your devices: ExpressVPN ($6.67 per month at ExpressVPN)ExpressVPN is our top pick out of all the best VPN services out there, though its five device limit is actually one of its downsides compared to the competition. For most people, five concurrent connections will be plenty so it's a minor complaint, but other provides allow up to ten simultaneous connections and some, such as Surfshark, even have no limit at all.You can install ExpressVPN's apps across all of your devices and be logged into the same account. The limit only applies to how many devices are actively running a VPN connection. You can mix and match which devices have acti...

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is clearly the top dog in the S21 series. It's the biggest, fastest, and best-equipped Galaxy you can buy. If you're going to spend top dollar on a top phone, then you probably want to do everything you can to protect your purchase. Following is a roundup of the best heavy-duty cases to cover your Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra. Whether you prefer to wrap your S21 Ultra up like RoboCop or let some of its personality shine through, we've got a tough case to match your tough phone.Speck-tacularSpeck Presidio2 Grip CaseStaff PickSmartphone buyers have loved Speck cases for years, and one of the company's most popular offerings is the Presidio line. We love it because it's thin yet still very durable, offering protection from drops of up to 13 feet. Best of all, it discourages bacterial growth with Microban technology, and yet it's still easy to hold onto thanks to the groves on the back and sides.$44 at Amazon (Blue)$25 at Amazon (Black)$26 at Amaz...

Amazon isn't having it.What you need to knowAmazon has received a large fine over privacy violations.The CNPD is calling for "corresponding practice revisions" by the company.Amazon says it will defend itself against the decision, which it believes was made "without merit."Amazon has just been hit with yet another fine, although this comes with a hefty price tag. It was discovered in financial filings (via The WSJ) that the Luxembourg National Commission for Data Protection (CNPD) recently issued a €746 million fine (roughly $887 million) against the company, the largest issued this far over EU privacy laws.According to the filing, the decision made on July 16 claimed that Amazon's processing of personal data did not comply with the GDPR. The ruling calls for Amazon to change its business practices.In the filing, Amazon says that the decision was made "without merit" and that the company plans to defend itself "vigorously" in the matter.Amazon told Android Central t...

Nowadays, most people spend a large proportion of their time using smartphones and tablets. These devices are just so convenient, enabling users to browse the web, flick through social media feeds, play games, stream movies and much more whenever and wherever they are.Best Mobile VPN appsExpressVPN: The best mobile VPN appSurfshark: An affordable mobile VPNNordVPN: A mobile-friendly VPNCyberGhost: Gigantic server networkIPVanish: Robust with great apps1. ExpressVPN: The best mobile VPN appThis is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of speed, reliability, outstanding customer service, and affordability. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee, so give it a shot today.From $6.67/mo at ExpressVPN2. Surfshark VPN: An affordable mobile VPNFrom $2.49/mo at SurfsharkWith plans starting out at about 8 cents per day, it's really hard to skip over Surfshark. It offers a ton of great features that you'd expect from ...

Best answer: When it comes to choosing a Garmin instinct smartwatch, the standard model will be the best option for most outdoor enthusiasts. If you're looking for additional perks, one of the other models might be more your speed.Which Garmin Instinct should you buy?If you're a fan of wearables, you know that Garmin offers some of the best Android smartwatches out there. However, the company's smartwatch lineup is far from predictable, including the rugged Garmin Instinct models. The Garmin Instinct and Garmin fēnix models are both made for outdoor enthusiasts, but the Instinct models aren't quite as advanced — or expensive. The good news is that the Garmin Instinct models cater to a few different types of users.If you need a rugged outdoor smartwatch that's ideal for covering basic tracking, the standard Garmin Instinct will do. If endurance and unlimited battery life are of the utmost importance, the Garmin Instinct Solar may be more appealing. If you'd like a few extra f...

Aloy's journey may not be continuing this year.What you need to knowHorizon Forbidden West was first revealed at the June 2020 Future of Gaming PS5 showcase.The game was originally slated to release sometime in the second half of 2021.Horizon Forbidden West has been reportedly delayed to 2022.Bloomberg reported on Friday that Guerrilla Games' Horizon Forbidden West is delayed to sometime in early 2022. The ambitious game follows the story of Horizon Zero Dawn as protagonist Aloy explores what used to be the Western U.S, encountering a whole new list of machines to tame and fight.This move comes after Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Jim Ryan previously confirmed that Horizon Forbidden West was one of the titles from Sony Worldwide Studios that was on track to release in 2021. Previously, our sources indicated that Sony Interactive Entertainment had taken on additional support work, to try and get the game out by Holiday 2021.Horizon Forbidden West isn't the first Play...

When you're trying to find the best Android smartwatch for your needs, you'll want to consider a few factors. You'll find that many wearables run on Wear OS, including the Mobvoi TicWatch smartwatches. Whether you prefer rugged or sleek, simple or robust, there's no shortage of options. Our favorite from this brand is the TicWatch Pro 3. It's pricey, but it'll be money well spent for most users. You'll get loads of smart features, battery life that goes on for days, and a gorgeous dual display. If you're still not sure, we've rounded up some of the best TicWatch smartwatches for you to choose from.Best overall: TicWatch Pro 3As you marvel at the TicWatch Pro 3, don't forget to pick up your jaw from the floor. This smartwatch truly does it all with a generous number of features, unbelievable battery life, and tons of fitness tracking perks. What you'll probably notice first, though, is the uniquely brilliant display. The TicWatch Pro 3 uses layered display technology, which help...

Our review is in for the Nothing ear (1) $99 Bluetooth earbuds! Intel and Qualcomm have formed a partnership that has Intel building chips for its quasi-competitor. Additionally, MediaTek is coming on strong with the Kompanio 1300T chip for tablets and Chromebooks, Surface Duo 2 alleged leaks show a big ass camera hump, a new S Pen for Galaxy Z Fold 3, and tons more.Listen nowSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: AudioSubscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:Nothing ear (1) review: Unique design, phenomenal sound | Android CentralIntel to build chips for Qualcomm as it fights to regain its lead | Android CentralMediaTek Kompanio 1300T chip is coming soon to an Android tablet near you | Android CentralSupposed Microsoft Surface Duo 2 prototype images show big changes are coming | Android CentralSamsung confirms new S Pen for Galaxy Z Fold 3 and other 'foldable surprises' | Android CentralNew Galaxy Watch 4 leak shows off Samsung's Wear OS-b...

Genshin Impact just got its biggest update yet, allowing players to travel to Inazuma, the nation of the Electro Archon. As you travel through Inazuma for the first time, you will find a wealth of new resources unique to the area. While some of these resources aren't terribly important yet, some are absolutely necessary for ascending characters and completing quests. Fortunately, we've trekked across the whole of Inazuma and know exactly where you need to go to farm these valuable resources.Local specialty resources in InazumaAs is the case with Mondstadt and Liyue, Inazuma also has local specialty resources. Currently, there are six local specialties in Inazuma: Sakura blooms, Naku weeds, Crystal Marrow, Sea Ganoderma, Onikabuto, and Dendrobium. While these resources are plentiful, if you need several in a hurry, we've mapped out the best places to farm them.Where to farm Sakura blooms in InazumaPerhaps the most important resource on the list, Sakura blooms are electrified...

In its preparation for the upcoming Wear OS overhaul, Google is already rolling out some changes to the Google Play Store on Wear OS to existing devices. This update brings a welcomed update to the app installation process for Wear OS smartwatches. When you install an app on your phone, if that app has a version for your smartwatch, you get the ability to install it to both devices simultaneously. Like many Google service updates, the change is rolling out in stages, but if you've noticed a difference in the way your Play Store app installation process looks — here's how to install Wear OS app from your Android phone.How to install Wear OS app from your Android phoneWhile you can still install apps from the Play Store directly on your Wear OS watch, sometimes it's just easier to search for apps on the larger screen of your phone. So here's how you can install the app on all of your Wear OS devices and your Android phone simultaneously.Open the Play Store on your Android phon...

Google will be rolling out new "milestones" every four weeks starting with Chrome 94.What you need to knowChrome 93 beta is now available to download.It brings multi-screen window placement, window controls overlay for desktop web apps, and PWAs as URL handlers. The stable version of Chrome 93 is expected to be released at the end of August.Google today rolled out Chrome 93 beta for Android, Chrome OS, Linux, macOS, and Windows.The new update introduces a few new original trials for Chrome desktop. These include a new Multi-Screen Window Placement API, Window Controls Overlay for installed desktop web apps, and PWAs as URL handlers. Google has also added cross-device support for the WebOTP API with Chrome 93, so you'll soon be paste SMS OTPs from your Android phone to your desktop.With the Multi-Screen Window Placement API, developers can place windows on any display connected to a machine and make a window full-screen on any display. For example, presentation apps ca...

The best backpacks are used for all kinds of reasons, whether it's to travel to work, school, or even vacation. Ideally, you'll want a backpack with several compartments that can hold a computer, like one of the best Chromebooks, tablet, and other essentials, plus have small pockets for items like your phone, wallet, keys, and more. There are so many types and kinds of backpacks, many of which are appropriate for different use cases. But one of the best and most versatile is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2, which, as the name implies, is designed to handle everyday use. It can hold a laptop and other essentials, both large and small, thanks to adjustable dividers. Plus, it's water-resistant, expandable, and designed with plenty of features to reduce theft.Best overall: Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2As the name implies, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is a versatile backpack made for everyday use, and it's designed such that it would look as great on a college campus...

Whether you're working from home, want to get in a gaming session from your bed, or watch movies while stuck at home, using one of these best lap desks is invaluable. A good lap desk can help with proper ergonomics to ensure you are comfortable while doing your work. There are so many choices out there — from adjustable options to those with lights or fans. We've rounded up the best for you to get for whatever you want to do from wherever you want to do it.Space for activitiesKavalan Portable Laptop DeskStaff PickThis lap desk from Kavalan not only looks great but has great functionality that makes terrific use of its size. The desk has mouse pads on both sides for right or left-handed use or as a spot for your phone to hang out. There is also a slot at the top of the desk should you want to use a tablet and prop it up. Dual pads on the bottom and wrist rest to make sure you stay comfy while you work or play.$58 at AmazonA solid choiceSONGMICS Laptop DeskT...

Free antivirus apps don't do much more than scan your device for existing threats. And because they are free, you can expect a lot of ads and a bit of slowdown because of the number of resources they use. After testing several free antivirus apps, my top pick is Sophos Intercept X for Mobile because of the extra security tools it comes with and how well it finds malware without causing too much drag.Best Overall: Sophos Intercept X for MobileThis app blocks calls and filters text messages for malicious links. Its QR scanner checks each link to make sure they are safe before connecting you or allowing a file to download. Sophos' anti-theft tools let you remotely access stolen phones to wipe data or reset passwords, send text commands to the thieves and track where your phone is.Sophos has a system scanner that looks for other security issues with your device and helps you secure them. This could be an outdated program or an app running in the background that doesn't need to be...

Motorola is one of the oldest and most recognizable phone brands in the world, and while it may not have the same dominance in the market that it once did, the company still kicks out some truly excellent Android phones, often at great prices. If your heart is set on one of these solid devices, here are the best Motorola phones that are out right now.Best of the bunchMoto G Power (2020)Staff PickWhen it comes to the best Motorola phones, the Moto G Power (2020) is the way to go. Motorola's G-series has always been about delivering quality phones at great prices, and the G Power (2020) is an exceptional example of that goal. The star of the show is the 5,000 mAh battery, offering up to three days of use per charge. Rounding out the experience is a great 6.4-inch Full HD+ display, reliable performance thanks to the Snapdragon 665, and a trio of rear cameras that are solid for the price.$220 at Amazon$149 at WalmartNew kidMoto G100 - 128GBThe Moto G100 is the compan...

This is a good sign as we wait for OnwardMobility to release its BlackBerry phone.What you need to knowOur readers overwhelmingly voted in favor of a new BlackBerry smartphone.Some readers reminisced over older BlackBerry phones like the Priv and KeyOne.Some of our readers have no interest in a new BlackBerry, while others see the merit in one.Earlier this week, we asked our readers if they were interested in a new BlackBerry smartphone. After all, it's been a few years since the fairly impressive BlackBerry Key2 launched, and OnwardMobility reinvigorated interest in a new device by launching a waitlist. We don't know anything about the upcoming device, but fans may be able to help influence its development to some extent.However, we received an overwhelmingly positive response, with 1,514 participants (76%) voting in favor of a new BlackBerry device. 12% of participants had no interest but saw the merit of a new BlackBerry, while 11% thought that the company should just ...

Tile makes some of the best Bluetooth trackers, and using them in conjunction with Amazon's Sidewalk network expands the number of other users that can help find your lost things. Setting everything up isn't really intuitive, but it's also not difficult. All you need is to have Sidewalk enabled in your Alexa app (this is done by default for most of us) and a Tile account, then you're halfway there. We'll show you how to connect Tile to Amazon sidewalk below.How to enable Tile in Sidewalk's Find My networkMake sure you have the Alexa app and Tile app installed on your phone. Inside the Tile app, open the settings menu.Tap for the Smart Home Hub settings entry.Link your Tile app to Amazon Alexa by tapping the top section. If you have already linked your accounts, you can skip to step number 8.After linking your accounts, the Alexa app will open to the Tile skill page. Tap ENABLE TO USE to install the skill.If you haven't already linked your Tile account to Alexa, you'll be ...

The leaked case renders also give us another look at the phone's upgraded cover display and rear camera module.What you need to knowA new leak shows off Samsung's official cases for the Galaxy Z Flip 3.Samsung reportedly plans to offer silicone, leather, and clear cases for the foldable phone.The Galaxy Z Flip 3 will debut alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 3 at Samsung's Unpacked event on August 11.Earlier this week, we got our first look at the official folio case for Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3, courtesy of 91Mobiles. The publication has now posted renders of Samsung's official cases for the Galaxy Z Flip 3.The new leak reveals Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 3 cases will be available in leather, silicone, and clear designs. As can be seen in the images below, the cases will be offered in three color options: Blue, Purple, and Yellow. One of the cases appears to have a strap attachment to provide protection to the foldable middle part of the phone, while another has a ring attachment i...