Latest from Android Central

Let's hope we get a matte black option.What you need to knowAlleged renders of the OnePlus 10 Pro have emerged.The render shows a new triple camera array on the rear.The device is expected to launch in early 2022.A new leak may have provided us with the first look at the OnePlus 10 Pro design, showing a different rear camera array than what we're used to from OnePlus.The renders provided by Onleaks (via Zouton) show only the back of the phone, but give us a look at what appears to be a raised stove for the cameras, not too unlike what Samsung has done with the Galaxy S21 series.It also appears that the Pro variant is downgrading to three cameras instead of four like on the OnePlus 9 Pro. Hopefully, that means the company is doing away with its largely pointless 2MP tertiary sensor.Onleaks didn't provide any specs for the device, but it should go head-to-head with the best Android phones of 2022, including the Galaxy S22 series.Onleaks states that the renders are b...

As much as we love playing with and testing the latest and greatest phones here at Android Central, there's something we can universally agree on that we're not fans of: paying full price for the best Android phones. So if you're in the market for a quality Android phone, but don't want to spend a thousand dollars, you could check out the best cheap Android phones, or you can grab one of the best-refurbished phones as these offer a great experience at a fraction of what you'd typically spend. Here are our favorite options!Still a stunnerGoogle Pixel 4a Smartphone 128GBStaff PickAlthough the newer Pixel 5 and Pixel 6 series are already out, the Pixel 4a is still a fantastic value buy. The device sports the same main camera as the Pixel 3a and 3 XL, along with a clean design that you're accustomed to. Plus, you'll still get a few more major software updates down the line.$404 at Amazon From $269 at Back Market $404 at Walmart2020's bestSasmung Galaxy S20 FEIt's toug...

Google really wants you to get a good night's sleep.What you need to knowGoogle is updating its second-gen Nest Hub with more sleep tracking features.The Nest Hub can now detect your sleep stages and show you how long you were in each stage.Users can now set a detection area so that their sounds aren't confused with others.Nest Hub owners will soon have access to Calm meditation content.The Soli-powered Nest Hub (2nd Gen) is getting some love with a new update that enhances its sleep detection features to make it more useful and allow users to get more insights into their sleep patterns and behaviors.With the new update, Google gives users a better look into how they sleep by enabling sleep stage detection. This is a feature found on many of the best Android smartwatches and determines when the user is in light, deep, or REM sleep, and even determines periods when the user is awake.Google says that using this in tandem with other sleep information can "help you better ...

Add some color to your child's life on the cheap without giving up on too much.I absolutely love smart lights as they have the ability to transform a room within seconds. One moment you're in your boring living room, and the next it becomes a mysterious space under the slow brilliance of shimmering smart LED bulbs. It really is a fantastic way to revamp the feel of your home.While brands like Philips and Govee come to mind first, there are plenty of affordable alternatives available when it comes to smart lights. ECOLOR is one such brand and it caters to the budget segment of smart lighting. The company makes everything, from smart bulbs to light strips. A notable difference between more notable brands and ECOLOR is that its products are not compatible with Google Assistant or Alexa, so you don't get the convenience of voice controls.The ECOLOR Smart Table Lamp that this review focuses on has an uncommon form factor for a smart lamp. It is shaped in the likeness of a sickle moo...

Last year's Galaxy flagship preps stable One UI 4 update.What you need to knowSamsung is reportedly rolling out the One UI 4 beta for its Galaxy Note 20 series.The arrival comes just after reports that Samsung was preparing to open the beta program for the S20 series.One UI 4 is on its fourth beta update, which brought plenty of bug fixes.After opening its One UI 4 beta program to its 2021 flagship smartphones, Samsung is now reportedly opening up the beta program for some of its 2020 flagships, namely the Galaxy Note 20 series.SamMobile spotted the update along with the full changelog, which should largely match what we've seen in One UI 4 beta thus far with devices like the Galaxy S21. That includes enhanced privacy settings, updates to the overall look with a new theming engine akin to Material You's dynamic color, new widgets, and more.The latest One UI 4 beta that rolled out for the Galaxy S21 was filled with bug fixes, as we're close to the stable version of the u...

Sara Gitkos is in the house with Rebecca and Carli as they check out the Animal Crossing: New Horizons 2.0 update and Mario Party Superstars. They also talk about Microsoft's take on the Metaverse and delays of Diablo 4 and Overwatch 2 as Blizzard continues to hemorrhage executives and customer good will.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Sara Gitkos (@sara_snax) / TwitterDiablo 4 and Overwatch 2 delayed, Jen Oneal leaves Blizzard | Windows CentralMicrosoft is bringing the metaverse to Microsoft Teams with Mesh in 2022 | Windows CentralAnimal Crossing: New Horizon's 2.0 update is now available — and two days early! | iMoreMario Party Superstars for Nintendo Switch review: The ultimate party game for all ages | iMoreIs the N64 Controller worth it for Nintendo Switch? | iMoreNo more N64 controllers to be sold this year, says Nintendo | iMore...

A microSD card for your Android phone lets you easily move your files, photos, and music from device to device without having to rely on steady Wi-Fi or costly data. An Android microSD card also lets you load your phone up with more apps, music, and movies, which is especially useful if your device doesn't come with a lot of internal storage. But which ones are the best? Here's a good selection from which to choose.Best blendSAMSUNG (MB-ME32GA/AM) microSDHC EVO SelectStaff PickThis is our preferred card because it's reliable, fast, and goes on sale frequently. And it offers blazing fast speeds at up to 100 MB/sec. read and 90 MB/sec. write.From $7 at AmazonUltra affordableSanDisk 128GB Ultra MicroSDXCSanDisk has more powerful cards, but the Ultra is the right answer for most, offering up to 100MB/s read speeds.$22 at AmazonGo proPNY 128GB PRO Elite Class 10 U3 microSDXCThis card is an excellent choice for power users who intend to use the card for storin...

The best Wi-Fi routers can be lifesavers. The difference between good Wi-Fi in your house and poor connectivity can be the difference between a good day and a bad one. So whether you need something with a ton of speed and connections or just want to make sure you don't drop your connection when you move around your home, there's a router that's right for you. Here's our reliable guide to some of the best wireless routers you can buy today.What are the best Wi-Fi routers?The TP-Link Archer AX21 is the best Wi-Fi router thanks to its AX1800 speeds being enough for most people and offering the capacity for future Wi-Fi 6 devices. It also has an easy setup procedure thanks to the TP-Link Tether app for smartphones. So if you're looking for something to keep up with most households without going overboard, the AX21 is a great fit.The best value option is the TP-Link Archer A7. While cheaper routers are available, the AC1750 speeds should keep up with HD media streaming and browsing wi...

You still can't use PayPal, though.What you need to knowAmazon will allow users to pay for purchases with their Venmo balance starting next year.You will be able to use Venmo for purchases made on Amazon's website or its online shopping app.PayPal will still not be available to use as a payment method.PayPal has announced that Amazon will begin accepting Venmo payments for online purchases next year, broadening the checkout options for users who use a third-party payment platform.The collaboration between Amazon and PayPal, Venmo's parent company, will enable you to use your Venmo balance to pay for purchases made on desktops or mobile devices, including many of the best Android phones. You can also use a bank account that is linked to your Venmo account.Amazon currently only accepts credit or debit cards, store cards, and checking accounts. For a complete list of accepted payment methods, visit this page. Venmo's inclusion on the list marks Amazon's first use of a thir...

Alphabet's market cap surpassed $1 trillion for the first time in January last year.What you need to knowAlphabet's market cap briefly surpassed $2 trillion on Monday.Apple and Microsoft are currently the only two other U.S.-based tech giants that are part of the $2 trillion club. Amazon's current valuation stands at $1.7 trillion. Alphabet, Google's parent company, surpassed $2 trillion in market cap for the first time on November 8 (via Bloomberg). The tech giant is only the third U.S.-based company to join the exclusive $2 trillion club.Apple achieved the milestone in April last year, while Microsoft's market cap rose above $2 trillion in June this year. Apple and Microsoft are both currently valued at around $2.5 trillion.Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Alphabet has seen its revenue rise at a really fast pace. In the third quarter of 2021, the company reported $65.1 billion in revenue, up from $46.2 billion during the same period last year.Google's search business ...

The X100 will be available starting November 19 exclusively at T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile.What you need to knowHMD Global is positioning the X100 for the "Entertainment Lover in All of Us".The new Nokia X100 features a 6.67-inch display, Qualcomm's Snapdragon 480 chipset, and a 4,470mAh battery. It will be sold by T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile in the U.S. HMD Global has announced a new affordable 5G phone for T-Mobile customers, dubbed the Nokia X100. Like October's Nokia G300, the new X100 has been designed exclusively for the U.S. market.The Nokia X100 sports a 6.67-inch display with FHD+ resolution and a hole-punch display for the 16MP selfie camera. Powering the X100 is Qualcomm's 8nm Snapdragon 480 chipset, paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of onboard storage. Users can also enjoy up to 1TB of additional storage through the microSD card slot.The quad-lens camera system is the highlight of the X100. It includes a 48MP main sensor, a 5MP ultra-wide sensor, a 2MP ...

Fitbit finally rolls out long-awaited features on the new Charge 5.What you need to knowFitbit brings its new ECG app to the new Charge 5.Fitbit is also introducing its Daily Readiness Score for Fitbit Premium members.The new features are arriving with an update to the Fitbit app and the device.When the new Fitbit Charge 5 was launched in August, it touted its built-in ECG sensor and new Daily Readiness Score. Both features, however, were not available at launch, but more than two months later, Fitbit is finally bringing the features to its latest health tracker.The Charge 5 is getting a new ECG app to compliment the first ECG sensor on a Fitbit device. With the app, users will be able to check for atrial fibrillation by opening the app and holding their fingers to the side panels for 30 seconds.The Daily Readiness Score is also coming to the Charge 5 and more of the best Fitbit devices for users with a Fitbit Premium subscription. With this, Fitbit will take various me...

There are a lot of fun new features coming in Android 12, and chief among them is the first major update to Android's design and user interface (UI). Material Design was unveiled in 2014, dragging us out of the beautiful #HOLOYOLO darkness and into the multi-layered blindingly white of most Material Designed apps. Now, we're getting Material You, a fun new evolution that helps bring back a more cohesive look for Android while offering you the chance to make your phone look and feel totally unique and personal.What's new in Material You theming — and who can take advantage of itWhile many parts of Material You will be available to all manufacturers and ROM-builders when Android 12 releases this fall, one aspect — in my opinion, the most important aspect — will be Pixel-exclusive at launch: Dynamic Color themes that will automatically theme your phone with colors extracted from your wallpaper. Samsung's One UI 4 Beta has actually brought the feature to Galaxy phones — but i...

Drop into a new game.PlayerUnknown's BattleGrounds, also known as PUBG, was arguably the first big battle royale games that helped kick off the trend that has since overtaken the video game industry. While the world of PUBG has been brought to the mobile world in PUBG: Mobile, a brand new game, PUBG: New State, is also in development and currently in alpha testing. While fans wait for more information, Tencent hopes that PUBG: New State will follow in PUBG: Mobile's footsteps as one of the biggest and best Android games available.PUBG: New State is an entiretly different game, and features mechanics and gameplay that fans of the original games might not be familiar with. Here's everything we know about PUBG: New State so far.Get ready to playPUBG: NEW STATESee at Google Play StorePlay the new PUBG chapter when it comes out on Android.Pre-register for the upcoming mobile PUBG: New State before it's released later in 2021.Jump to:What is PUBG: New StateWhat...

There's a lot to love about it.There are plenty of reasons you might want to consider one of the best Android smartphones as your next big purchase. Whether it's to have a phone that literally folds in half like the Samsung Galaxy Flip 3 or to get the best camera experience with a phone like the Google Pixel 6 Pro, there's no denying that spending a bit more cash on a more premium experience can have a big payoff.But if you're a parent, you know that even the best phones sometimes have difficulty capturing good photos or videos of your kids. It doesn't matter if a phone has cutting-edge hardware; if the software doesn't know what the camera is looking at, it can't properly take a photo that you're going to be happy with.That's where the Google Pixel 6 line comes in. Inside each Pixel 6 is the AI powerhouse Google Tensor processor, a processor designed specifically to better process machine learning tasks. That means, thanks to Google's years of research, that a Pixel 6 understa...

Except for the design, the M4 Pro 5G is nearly identical to the Redmi Note 11.What you need to knowPOCO's new M4 Pro 5G is a follow-up to the M3 Pro 5G that it launched earlier this year.It features MediaTek's 6nm Dimensity 810 chipset, a 90Hz FHD+ display, and a 33W wired charging. The phone will be available globally, including in Western Europe and Southeast Asia. Back in May this year, POCO launched a "Pro" version of the M3 with 5G connectivity and a high-refresh-rate display. The Xiaomi sub-brand has now introduced a successor to its best budget Android phone, dubbed the POCO M4 Pro 5G.Just as expected, the "new" POCO M4 Pro 5G is actually a rebranded version of the recently launched Redmi Note 11. The phone is powered by MediaTek's 6nm Dimensity 810 processor, which has been coupled with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage.The new POCO M4 Pro 5G also promises an "immersive entertainment experience," thanks to a 6.6-inch FHD+ display featuring a ...

It's that time of year again. Black Friday is nearly upon us if you can believe it! Much like last year, many of the best deals will be available not only in person at retail stores but also online. It's never too early to start looking for bargains on the best Android phones, so here is a running list of Android phone deals that we've got our eye on leading up to the biggest shopping weekend of the year.There are some pretty stellar Black Friday phone deals every year, though you have to know where to shop if you want to find the best offers. So whether you're hoping for the best Samsung deals, Google Pixel deals, some other Android phone, or even an iPhone (gasp!), this is truly the best time of the year to find one.So far, Moto and OnePlus have begun their Black Friday phone deals early. The OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro will sell at some of their lowest prices of the year throughout November (if you know where to look). And you can save up to $600 off Motorola phones for its pre-Black ...

Nanoleaf is known for its unique lighting fixtures that range from the tile within a tile look of Nanoleaf Canvas panels to some of the best smart lights that lean more in the traditional smart light bulb category. Its product line literally comes in nearly all shapes and sizes, so picking out the best Nanoleaf smart lights can be challenging — but we're here to help.Endless possbilitiesNanoleaf ShapesStaff PickNanoleaf Shapes offer fantastic opportunities to express your creativity both in the layouts and the lighting possibilities, thanks to the interoperability with hexagons, triangles, and mini triangles. Mix and match the shapes to make your perfect design to match your room's aesthetic.Triangles $200 at Amazon Mini Triangles $103 at AmazonMore than just a lightNanoleaf CanvasThese square panels look like four tiles in one, creating even more expressive layout opportunities. The Nanoleaf Canvas is also touch-sensitive, so you can control the lights ...

It has been a banner year for Samsung, between the camera prowess of the Galaxy S21 Ultra, the more polished foldable experience on the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3, and the launch of the first smartwatch with Wear OS 3, the Galaxy Watch 4. So whether you're looking for new earbuds or an entirely new mobile line, Black Friday always brings tremendous deals to every segment, and we're here to help you find the best one for you and your family members.While supply issues might make some smartphone deals more elusive than in previous years, there are a few perennial deals and plenty of bundles hoping to sweeten the pot this Black Friday. Tablets are another area we expect Samsung to offer bountiful discounts in, and Galaxy earbuds will drop from good prices down to "what the heck are you waiting for" territory before the turkey leftovers are demolished.Jump to Black Friday Samsung Galaxy deals:SmartphonesWearablesTabletsEarbudsWhere to find the best Black Friday Samsung G...

The Pixel 6 does charge from zero to 50 percent in a half-hour, but it is not using 30 watts to get there.You know you're a smartphone enthusiast when you pay attention to all the details of every new phone. That describes many of us (myself included), and it also means we love to see how things work in the "real world" compared to how a company says they will work.The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are no different. I read the complaints, have some of my own, and love to see how they will be addressed because that's my job. I would do it even if it weren't, though, especially for batteries and charging. That's why a recent test at Android Authority caught my eye just as it did many others.I'll let you read through it and decide what you want to take away from it all, but I'm also going to put in my two cents because I can't help myself: don't buy Google's new 30-watt USB C charger for your Pixel 6. You can get a better charger for the same amount of money or less, and your Pixel 6 do...

After months of anticipation, TikTok on Amazon Fire TV has officially launched in the United States and Canada. Among other things, the new app allows loyal TikTok users to watch the best in viral content from the comfort of their couch. But what's the easiest way to watch your favorite viral videos? Here's a quick rundown of what you need to do to use TikTok on Amazon Fire TV.How to get TikTok on Amazon Fire TVTo start using TikTok on Amazon Fire TV, you'll need to download the TikTok for TV app on your Fire TV device. Here are step-by-step instructions for getting started.From your the Amazon Fire homepage, navigate to the Amazon Appstore and select Search. Use the Search tool to find the TikTok for TV app. Choose to Get and the app. Once the app has downloaded to your device, you'll be able to Log in with your existing credentials.If you don't already have an account on TikTok, you can create a new account by selecting a username, password, and using that inform...

All things considered, the Moto G Pure is a basic pick when it comes to Motorola phones. While it may not have made the cut for the best Android phones under $200, it's still one of the best cheap Android phones out there. If you bought a unit, we've curated a selection of the best Moto G Pure cases for you. The right pick prevents damage and gives your Moto G Pure a much-needed makeover, killing two birds with one stone.Beauty and brawnDALUX MetKase Hybrid Slim Phone CaseStaff PickThe shockproof MetKase series from DALUX is slim and comes in some beautiful color options. We recommend the Blue Cursed Skull design to compliment your Moto G Pure. It's comfortable to carry and resilient when you drop it.$15 at Amazon $15 at WalmartThe clear choiceFoluu Clear Case for Moto G PureTransparent cases are good for showing off your phone's natural colors. This clear case from Foluu has re-inforced corners and is made of a hard TPU material. As a result, it won't yello...

Get all you need to know about this excellent service from Amazon.Amazon has had some of the best Android tablets for kids for years now, and that's in large part to the services offered as much as it is the hardware. Amazon launched software that turned a regular Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus into a Kids Edition in 2012, called Amazon FreeTime and FreeTime Unlimited. Then, in the Fall of 2020, it was rebranded as Amazon Kids and Kids+. So, what is Amazon Kids and Kids+, and what makes these services so great?In short, it's a service from Amazon that offers carefully curated books, movies, and games for kids paired with excellent parental controls for children ranging ages 3 to 12. As the parent, you determine how much screen time your child gets, and if they need to read before playing games, and what content your child sees based on age range. There are plenty of layers to this fantastic service, so let's get into it.All in one placeAmazon Kids+From $3 at Google PlayEveryth...

Best answer: There's no word on controller support yet, but because PUBG Mobile doesn't natively support controllers, it's safe to bet that PUBG: New State will do the same.A brand new mobile-exclusivePlayerUnknown's BattleGrounds, or PUBG, is one of the first major battle royale titles to hit the scene, ushering in a new genre of multiplayer game. The popularity of PUBG is massive, especially on Android, and Tencent plans to deliver a bigger and better experience with PUBG: New State, a brand new, mobile-exclusive game set in the PUBG universe. As the first true successor to the original PUBG, players can expect updated visuals, dynamic gunplay, and new unique mechanics such as dodging, drone calls, and support requests. It's quite possible it ends up as one of the best Android games available when it arrives.PUBG: New State is set in the year 2051, meaning it's a "near-future" war setting, allowing developers to introduce changes based on upcoming technology. Amusingly, t...

The new solution is not only more effective than vapor chamber solutions, but also frees up space for a bigger battery or a larger camera module.What you need to knowXiaomi has introduced an innovative new heat dissipation solution called Loop LiquidCool.Inspired by cooling solutions used in the aerospace industry, the new technology uses a capillary effect to improve heat dissipation. Xiaomi says it will launch its first phones with Loop LiquidCool technology in H2 2022. Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi has unveiled a new cooling solution for smartphones, which it claims offers twice the cooling capability of vapor chamber cooling solutions that are used in the best Android phones currently.Dubbed Loop LiquidCool technology, the solution "utilizes a capillary effect which draws liquid cooling agent to the heat source, vaporizes, and then disperses the heat efficiently towards a cooler area, until the agent condenses and is captured via a unidirectional closed looped chann...

Synology's C2 Backup is a robust cloud backup solution for home PCs.Synology is known for making the best home NAS enclosures, and in 2021 the Taiwanese manufacturer is building out its cloud services. C2 Storage debuted several years ago, with the cloud storage service offering NAS users an easy way to back up and store data offsite.Coinciding with the launch of DSM 7.0, Synology rolled out new offerings in the C2 suite. It introduced C2 Password, a free password manager that offers a lot of the same features as the best password managers. C2 Password came with a secure file transfer feature, and for businesses that need to send large files and datasets securely, it introduced C2 Transfer with the ability to share 20GB files.Synology is now offering C2 Backup, a comprehensive solution for backing up Windows machines to the cloud. I've been using the service for a while now, and here's what you need to know.What is C2 Backup?Let's start off with a rundown of what C2 Backup ...

What you need to knowWhatsApp is reportedly preparing to integrate a new digital payments system.The app will likely integrate with Meta's Novi digital wallet and require authentication.WhatsApp payments are currently available in India and Brazil.WhatsApp may be preparing to introduce its peer-to-peer payment system in the U.S., according to code found in the latest app beta.XDA-Developers found code in WhatsApp beta version 2.21.23.10 that points directly to Novi integration and payment transactions. This corroborates similar findings by WABetaInfo late last month, which also showed evidence of Novi integration and even managed to show off what it might look like:Novi is the digital wallet owned by Facebook Meta, and now the company is unifying all of its payment services for its various apps under the Novi brand. From the looks of it, users will be able to manage their Novi account directly from WhatsApp.Since the Novi service is only available in the U.S. and Guat...

It could be among the first with Qualcomm's new chipset.What you need to knowMotorola is expected to launch the Edge 30 Ultra soon.Qualcomm's unannounced Snapdragon 898 chipset may power the device.The device is expected to be a flagship with two 50MP cameras and a 144Hz display.Motorola may be hoping to make a splash before the end of the year with the rumored flagship Motorola Edge 30 Ultra.According to Nils Ahrensmeier of TechnikNews, Motorola is preparing to launch its next flagship device based on Qualcomm's next premium Snapdragon platform. The chipset will likely be dubbed the Snapdragon 898 and power plenty of the best Android phones in 2022.The device is said to have a 144Hz FHD+ OLED display and two 50MP cameras on the rear. One of them is said to be the same sensor from the Huawei P50, whereas the ultrawide may be the Samsung JN1. The cameras will be rounded out with a third 2MP tertiary sensor and a front selfie camera with a whopping 60MP resolution and 4K ...

Speaking as a passionate mobile gamer, finding the best smartphone gaming accessories can save you from inadequate controls, a dying battery, tinny audio, and limited internal storage. With cloud-based streaming platforms on the rise and the best Android games adding controller support and more demanding graphics, having the right Android gaming accessories on hand can make or break a gaming session. We've rounded up the best controllers, battery packs, and headphones that you should consider if you want to step your game up.One size fits mostRazer Kishi Mobile Game ControllerStaff PickBuilt to slot in almost any Android phone with a center USB-C port, the Kishi runs off your phone battery and supports pass-through charging. So unlike most Bluetooth controllers, you'll never have to charge it. It collapses into a convenient travel size, input lag is never a problem, and it's less conspicuous than a gaming-clip controller when playing on the go.$55 at Amazon$55 at Best Bu...

The best Samsung Galaxy S21 cases will not only keep your new smartphone protected, but they'll keep it looking as stylish as you are. Whether you prefer a clear case, a flip case, something colorful, or something rugged, you have options with a phone as popular as the Galaxy 21. The best part of all is that you don't have to spend a lot of money to keep your Galaxy S21 looking great for the long term. Here are some of the best Galaxy S21 cases you can buy today.Colorful and well-texturedCasology Nano PopStaff PickThe Galaxy S21 is the first Android phone to get Caseology's Nano Pop Series, and it was 110% worth the wait. The texturing on this case is grippier than Casology's longtime favorite Parallax, and the color combos here are bold, beautiful, and absolutely pop around the camera cutout on the S21.$18 at Amazon $18 at WalmartSlim grip and gritRingke Onyx SeriesIf you want to add some grip to your slippery little Samsung, Ringke's Onyx series has two va...

Enjoy the rush of competition from the comfort of your living room.The PS4 has an immense catalog of great games that let you relax, visit a new world, or hang out with friends online. That includes a vast number of sports games catering to fans and competitors of every type. So whether you want to put together a dream team featuring your favorite professional athletes or play a wild, futuristic sport that will test your reflexes and situational awareness, there's a game for that. We've put together a guide to some of the best PS4 sports games available now so you can enjoy all the thrills.Some of these games even support free upgrades to the current-generation version, meaning you'll have a nice library of PS5 titles waiting whenever you get Sony's latest console. Stock remains supply-constrained but you'll have a good chance if you keep an eye on the PS5 restocks.Jump to:Rocket LeagueRider's RepublicFutureGrindBOXVReFootball Pro Evolution Soccer 2020Everybody's Golf...

PUBG Mobile is a graphics-intensive game that demands a powerful phone. If you want the best results and more Chicken Dinners, you're going to need a phone for that truly stands out from the pack, and in 2021 that's the OnePlus 9 Pro. Not only is it a great phone packed with the latest internals and a 120Hz QHD+ AMOLED display, but you also get the best software on Android right now.Best overall: OnePlus 9 ProPUBG Mobile has been developed to run pretty well on old and new phones alike, but you'll need a phone with admirable specs to run it at the highest graphics settings. The OnePlus 9 Pro fits the bill, with 8GB of RAM and a Snapdragon 888 chipset, which both deliver enough memory and processing power for great gaming performance.OxygenOS continues to deliver a simple and speedy software experience that allows for customization, including the gaming mode, which offers fine controls for avoiding distractions while gaming. You can limit notifications to alarms and calls or ...

We break down which phones will get Android 12 by manufacturer, with our best-educated guesses as to when.After a seemingly neverending beta period, Android 12 arrived on eligible Google Pixel phones on Oct. 19 — much later in the year than usual. The longer wait is giving other Android devs less time to get their Android 12 skins ready on schedule, but most still plan to release the new OS on their most recent flagships by December 2021.Most of the top Android OEMs are well into their Android 12 betas by this point. For example, the Samsung One UI 4 beta has added new features and its spin on the Material You design to the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy Z Fold 3, while the OxygenOS 12 beta on the OnePlus 9 has shed its usual identity in favor of a ColorOS clone.You're here to read which of the best Android phones will get Android 12 — and when. Unfortunately, companies haven't officially announced this information yet, and it will depend on how long it takes to iron out bugs in...

Going up against Google Tensor.What you need to knowQualcomm Tech Summit has been scheduled for November 30 in Hawaii.The chip manufacturer is set to launch the next-generation flagship Snapdragon chipset.Xiaomi is expected to be the first to launch a phone with the new chip.The dates for the Qualcomm Tech Summit were revealed on Monday, where the company is expected to unveil the successor to the Snapdragon 888 platform.The event will take place from November 30 to December 1 in Hawaii, where the summit is usually held.Qualcomm teases that it will "debut the latest Snapdragon premium tier mobile platform," which is likely to be the Snapdragon 898 (or 895 as some rumors have called it). This chip is expected to power the best Android phones in 2022 and will go head-to-head with Samsung's next-gen Exynos chip and Google Tensor."Snapdragon remains at the center of delivering premium mobile experiences," says president and CEO Christiano Amon in a statement. The company ...

If you're looking for a great streaming device, we've ranked the best Amazon Fire TV Sticks that you can buy right now. A streaming stick is a great, low-cost option to bring all of the content you want into your living room, and there really isn't a better option than a Fire TV Stick. Even though it's a couple of years old at this point, we still believe that the best choice overall is the Fire TV Stick 4K. It comes with a handy Alexa Voice Remote and is the best all-around version of a Fire TV device.Best overall Fire TV Stick: Fire TV Stick 4K with Alexa Voice RemoteLet's not mince words here; this is the Fire TV stick that you want to get. Period. Yeah, the others work just about as well, but with the Fire TV Stick 4K, you are future-proofing yourself. As more and more video content is available in better formats like 4K, UHD, HDR 10+, and Dolby Vision, you're going to want to have a device that can support and stream that content, especially if and when you upgrade your ...

Why mess with a good thing?When it comes to smart speakers, the first products that come to mind for most people are likely one of Amazon's Echo devices. Amazon introduced and popularized the category with the original Echo speaker and then did the same for smart displays with the original Echo Show. Now that we're nearly seven years removed from the first cylindrical Echo and four years have passed since the first Echo Show debuted, we've had time to see these products and their product categories mature.As with other mature product categories (like the best Android phones), once you get to a certain point, there aren't that many opportunities to drastically change or improve upon the established form factor(s). The Echo Show line is the perfect example here. With the exception of the new Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen), the rest of the Show line has retained a design consistency for nearly three years. The latest updates to the lineup — the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen), the Echo Show 5 Kids,...

Manners matter.What you need to knowMore of our readers say "please" and "thank you" to smart home assistants than not.Users tend to say "thank you" more than "please" when asking to perform tasks.Roughly a quarter of responses think it's unnecessary to be polite with smart home assistants.We know that most of our readers use smart home products around the house, so over the weekend, we asked whether or not our readers say "please" and "thank you" to their smart home assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. We wanted to know if our readers thought it was important to practice good manners with some of the best smart speakers and displays since they make our lives just a bit easier.Out of more than 1200 responses, it seems our readers are more polite than not, with 35% and nearly 40% voting yes and sometimes, respectively. Only 24% voted no.Some users have commented that saying "please" and "thank you" to devices like the Nest Hub Max is pointless and akin to...

The Galaxy A53 5G is expected to be announced sometime early next year.What you need to knowThe first CAD renders of Galaxy A53 5G have appeared online.The renders suggest the upcoming mid-ranger will not look all that different from its predecessor. It will be slimmer than the Galaxy A52 5G, but won't include a headphone jack. The Galaxy A52 5G, which was launched in March this year, is one of Samsung's best budget Android phones. CAD-based renders of the Galaxy A52 5G successor have now surfaced, courtesy of trusted leaker @OnLeaks and Digit.The renders suggest Samsung's next big mid-ranger will not bring any significant design changes. Like its predecessor, the Galaxy A53 5G will have an Infinity-O screen with a centered hole-punch cutout. On the back of the phone will be a quad-camera array that appears to be much better integrated into the rest of the rear panel. The area around the camera bump will also have smooth curves for a more seamless look. Disappointi...

Best answer: No, Arlo cameras do not require a subscription to operate and can store footage locally when paired with an Arlo base station. However, if you subscribe to Arlo Smart, you'll get additional AI-powered motion detection options, cloud storage, and customizable motion zones.What Arlo cameras can do without a subscriptionArlo makes some of the most capable smart cameras on the market, even if you're not looking to pay extra for a subscription. All of Arlo's cameras can connect to an Arlo Base Station — including the Arlo Video Doorbell — which enables better battery life, longer-range wireless connectivity, and the addition of local storage. Videos are stored on either USB sticks or SD cards, depending on which base station you have.If you don't want to spend money on an Arlo Secure plan every month, most Arlo cameras store footage locally for free.Some older Arlo cameras, like the Arlo Pro 2, come with a free base cloud storage plan, which includes the following...

The Smart Clock 2's improved sound and new dock add helpful utilities to an already great nightstand buddy.Lenovo has done a great job of cornering the Google Assistant-enabled small smart display market. The first Lenovo Smart Clock launched in November 2019 as a solid budget option. Its successor, the 2020 Lenovo Smart Clock Essential, lacked a touch display but gave you a cheap smart assistant for your bedroom. Now, Lenovo is giving the two-year-old Smart Clock an update with the new Lenovo Smart Clock 2, and it's bringing a friend with a new dock.I owned two of the original Lenovo Smart Clocks for about 18 months. They served their purpose, but it became clear to me that a few areas could be improved. With the Smart Clock 2, Lenovo aimed to do just that: it adjusted the form factor a bit and introduced a dock that bundles a wireless charger and a nightlight. But are these adjustments enough to make the Lenovo Smart Clock 2 a true upgrade? Let's dig in and find out.Lenovo ...

You can now send and receive messages using the service even if your smartphone is dead.What you need to knowWhatsApp's multi-device capability is now rolling out to the stable version of the app.The feature allows you to use the service even with your smartphone turned off or disconnected from the internet.However, the feature is still limited in a number of ways, including the inability to link a secondary phone or tablet.WhatsApp has gained a new update that pushes its multi-device capability to the stable version after a few months of limited availability, allowing you to sign in to multiple devices at the same time and send messages even without your phone.The feature's expanded availability was discovered by WABetaInfo, which also noted that the option to opt-out of the multi-device beta program was removed in the app's most recent beta update (v2.21.23.10). Installing the new update prevents those who participated in the beta program from exiting the program at thi...

While Black Friday tends to bring deals on everything from Chromebooks to cars and beyond, not everything is destined for a doorbuster deal on November 26. Google has made its best Pixel ever this year, by a wide margin, and that means that many of you will likely be hoping to save a few hundred on one this holiday shopping season. Unfortunately, like everything Google sells, Black Friday Google Pixel deals are a bit more complicated than most. Here's why and how you can find the best deals even when they're scarce.Jump to Black Friday Google Pixel deals:Pixel 6 and 6 ProPixel 4a and 5aPixel BudsPixelbookWhere to find the best Black Friday Google Pixel dealsGoogle Pixel deals are going to mostly be found from two places: the Google Store and at your local carrier. While Amazon has traditionally seen the best deals on Google Pixel phones around, Amazon can't seem to keep Pixel phones in stock right now. The Google Store has better availability, but fewer deals. Other ...

The Google Pixel 5a packs a big battery into a very familiar design, and while it might look a little boring on its own, that's what cases are for: protecting your phone and making it look even better! The limited release of the Google Pixel 5a had me concerned we wouldn't see many big-name, high-quality cases, but those fears were unfounded. We've got the best Pixel 5a cases right here to help you protect your new phone, whatever your tastes prefer.Sage colors, serene patternsCaseology Parallax Compatible with Google Pixel 5a Case (2021)Staff PickSince the Pixel 5a lacks color options, Caseology has given us the best of the Pixel 5's colors along with its tried and true favorites. The Parallax features a fun cubist pattern across the back that adds grip and style. The bumper here has a new ultra-textured section, but some might find it abrasive.$16 at Amazon $16 at WalmartGrippy and understatedSpigen Liquid Air ArmorIf you want grip without a case that glows like...

Black Friday SSD deals will be in hot demand this year now that Sony has finally unlocked the storage expansion bay of the PlayStation 5. Users can upgrade the console's internal storage capacity beyond the measly amount the PS5 launched with.Picking up one of the best PS5 SSD options around on Black Friday may save you a bit of cash compared to the normal MSRP, but at the same time, the 'deals' might actually just be managing to find stock in the first place as many of our favorite models have been selling out. Don't worry, though; we're constantly testing new PS5-compatible SSDs, so we'll let you know which ones are available too beyond the old favorites likes the Samsung 980 Pro, WD SN 850 Black, and the Firecuda 530.If you're going to have a look around yourself, we've listed some retailers below that we'll be checking for Black Friday PS5 SSD options for the next few weeks. Be careful, though; you'll want to make sure the specs of the SSD meet Sony's particular requirements....

Google Pixel 6 ProUltimate camera phone$899 at Best BuyProsGroundbreaking cameras120Hz AMOLED screenInternal hardware on par with rivalsAndroid 12 out of the boxWater resistance and wireless chargingCosts less than other flagshipsConsBuild quality inconsistenciesLimited availabilityWon't get as many updates as the iPhoneThe Pixel 6 Pro nails the fundamentals while delivering the best cameras you'll find in any phone today. Google went with an all-new design with a large camera bar at the back that makes the phone stand out. There's a stunning 120Hz AMOLED screen, custom Tensor hardware with the latest cores, Android 12 out of the box, and all the extras.iPhone 13 Pro MaxThe ideal all-rounder$1,099 at AmazonProsOutstanding battery lifeSmooth 120Hz OLED panelFastest internal hardwareStandout cameras for photos and videosFive years of iOS version updatesAll the extrasConsCostlier than the Pixel 6 ProStill uses a Lightning connector Mi...

We're now within firing range of the Black Friday Sony WH-1000XM4 deals and you might not even have to wait until the day itself to save yourself a lot of money on these excellent noise-canceling headphones. We've already seen some retailers jump the gun with some big discounts on that high MSRP recently.Priced at $350/£350 before reductions, they're certainly a premium piece of kit. But given the exceptional audio quality and improved noise-canceling, they really are a pair of headphones you'll adore for years. We use them for commuting, working, and casual use in-between. They're that comfortable, and the 30-hour battery life won't have you irritably reaching for a recharge in the middle of a workday. Even the best wireless earbuds continue to disappoint with their batteries compared to the best wireless headphones. That, and a fully-realized soundscape with zero compromises. So yes, we like them a lot, as you can see with our detailed Sony WH-1000XM4 review.At the time of wri...

Anker looks to challenge more expensive brands with these earbuds.Anker has been on to something with its Soundcore brand, particularly with wireless earbuds that aim to offer more for less. Undercutting the competition on price is nothing new, but when you do it in ways that add value to every dollar spent, some people will start to notice. That's really where the company wants to position the Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro.These feature-packed earbuds present well on paper, given everything they offer relative to what they cost. With fewer compromises and more reliable performance, striking the right balance is supposed to deliver something not all other earbuds currently provide.Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro review:Price and availabilityWhat's good What's not goodThe competitionShould you buy?At a glanceAnker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro ...

Disney Plus prices have just received an epic cut on the monthly subscription cost. Prices over at the official sign-up site have just been cut to $1.99 / £1.99, but you'll have to be quick as the offer expires on November 14.This is likely to be the best offer you'll see for quite some time, especially given the Disney Plus free trial was canceled a long time ago. Disney Plus is usually $7.99/£7.99 a month, so getting it for this price is pretty much a free trial. After your month is up, prices will auto-renew at the standard price, but you're free to cancel at any time, there are no obligations or long-term contracts involved at all.This is a great time to sign up too as both Jungle Cruise and Shang-Chi: Legend of the Ten Rings are both coming to the service on November 12 at no extra charge. They were both previously on the Premier Access tier (or viewable at movie theaters), requiring an expensive extra payment to watch them on Disney Plus. Most modern smart TVs can access th...

Can Google's Tensor work magic, or is it just a dog and pony show?Google's Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are stunning phones with a cutting-edge processor from Google that's designed to process AI-based features like nothing else on the market. Among the many features that Google debuted on the Pixel 6 series coinciding with the launch of its Tensor processor was Magic Eraser, a feature that was teased back in 2017 and finally delivered in at least some capacity on these phones.Magic Eraser is designed to help you erase things from photos that just shouldn't be there, whether it was a photobomber that ruined the perfect moment, distracting folks in the background, or even an object that got in the way of the perfect shot.But Google isn't the only one who has been working on this kind of tech. In many ways, Adobe Photoshop has been able to do it for years — although the new object selection tool in Photoshop 2022 is designed to make this "content-aware fill" function better — and ...

The Pixel 6 comes equipped with an optical fingerprint scanner, not an ultrasonic one.What you need to knowGoogle has responded to complaints from Pixel 6 owners about the phone's unreliable fingerprint sensor.The company says the Pixel 6's fingerprint sensor uses enhanced security algorithms, which require "more direct contact with the sensor." It isn't clear if Google will release a software update to improve the performance of the in-display optical fingerprint reader. Google's Pixel 6 and 6 Pro are among the most impressive phones released this year, offering great value and class-leading camera performance. However, the fingerprint scanners on the two phones aren't the most reliable. Google has now finally responded to complaints regarding the slow and unreliable fingerprint sensors on the Pixel 6 series (via Engadget).We're sorry for the hassle. The Pixel 6 fingerprint sensor utilizes enhanced security algorithms. In some instances, these added protections can take ...