Latest from Android Central

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

You can now jump right to key moments in a podcast.What you need to knowAmazon Music has launched synced transcripts on podcasts for users in the United States.Synced transcripts allow you to skip to specific parts of a podcast or go back to a portion you've missed.The new feature is available on both iOS and Android for select podcasts.Amazon Music has introduced synchronized transcripts for select podcasts in the U.S., making it easier to navigate an episode by scrolling through the transcript.Starting today, you can easily find specific spots of a podcast by scrolling through the transcript in order to read the segments you've missed or seek ahead in an episode. Transcripts are displayed in paragraph form, with words highlighted as they are spoken by the host.When you tap on a line in the transcript, the playback jumps to that specific point in the podcast. You can also see a preview of the later part of an episode as you move the cursor along. The experience is simi...

Meta gets extra meta as Meta PCs reportedly offers to sell the name "Meta" to Meta.What you need to knowA PC company has reportedly already filed a trademark application for the name "Meta."The application was filed before the Meta, formerly known as Facebook, announced its rebranding.Meta PCs' founders are reportedly asking for $20 million from Meta in order to stop pursuing the trademark.Mark Zuckerberg may run into some problems after announcing his company name change to "Meta." Apparently, the name "Meta" is already in the process of being trademarked by another tech company.TMZ discovered that the trademark application for "Meta" was filed by an Arizona-based company called Meta PCs, which sells their own brand of desktops, laptops, software, accessories, and more. The company has been in business for just over a year and filed the trademark application in August, well before Facebook's Meta's announcement.Meanwhile, Meta filed for its trademark on October 28, acc...

Let your embarrassing WhatsApp messages be a thing of the past.What you need to knowWhatsApp is reportedly going to let users delete messages for everyone in a thread.The feature will likely be paired with an extension to when users can delete messages.It's unclear when the new update will roll out on devices.WhatsApp is working on adding a new feature that will expand its message deletion capabilities and may prove helpful for users of the app.A new beta was spotted by WABetaInfo that details the ability to delete messages for everyone in the thread after a specific time. Currently, that time limit is just over an hour, but WhatsApp may be extending that even further.It's unclear just how long the "delete for everyone" feature will extend its time limit, but the folks over at WABetaInfo managed to have the prompt show up on a message sent more than two months ago.It's very possible that WhatsApp has completely done away with the time limit, or it's merely longer th...

But you'll definitely need it if you ever have to replace your screen.What you need to knowGoogle has released a fingerprint scanner calibration tool for resetting the fingerprint scanner security after a screen replacement.Users only need to run this after replacing the screen, as it will need to reset security keys to recertify the authenticity of fingerprints being read.Some users may need to run this after installing custom ROMs, too.There's no denying that the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are two of the year's best Android smartphones, but the in-display fingerprint scanners leave a lot to be desired. If you're having trouble with your fingerprint scanner, Google's newly-released Pixel repair tool that XDA-Developers discovered isn't designed to ease your burdens.Instead, this tool is here to recalibrate and recertify the fingerprint reader after replacing the display. That's usually done after the display breaks due to a fall or some other mishap. Sometimes, this ...

T-Mobile may have its work cut out for it.What you need to knowT-Mobile reports its Q3 financial earnings, with $19.6 billion in revenue.The carrier now has more than 106 million subscribers, up from 104 million in Q2.T-Mobile expects to exceed its outlook for the year in terms of revenue and postpaid additions.The third quarter was good for T-Mobile, which reported its financial earnings on Tuesday. The "New Uncarrier" reported total revenue of $19.6 billion, as well as record-high service revenue of $14.7 billion. The company also reports 1.3 million customer addition, more than Verizon and AT&T in Q3 and bringing T-Mobile's total subscriber base to 106.7 million.During the earnings call, CEO Mike Sievert also highlighted its new internet service, which recently saw its price drop and relies primarily on 5G. The service saw record growth in Q3 with more than 500,000 subscribers, which is likely fueled by the attractive price point and Sprint's mid-band spectrum.Si...

Black Friday isn't too far off, and anyone in the market for a Chromebook should pay close attention. Last year, we saw major price drops on several of the best Chromebooks, including $100 off the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 2-in-1 Laptop and $200 off the Dell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1, which is a great device for students.This year, some impressive Black Friday deals have already begun, mostly at Best Buy — where the retailer is promising to refund you the difference if the price drops lower after you buy it between now and Black Friday. So if you want to relax and eat leftover turkey over Thanksgiving weekend instead of hunched over a keyboard, now seems like a great time to snag a deal.We are rounding up all of the best Chromebook Black Friday deals that we can find from around the web, and we will update this page as more deals come in over the next month. We expect some amazing deals on the actual holiday, but for now, here are the best deals we've found.Lenovo Chromebook ...

Not only are the best smart LED light bulbs more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, but you'll feel like Tony Stark walking through your home, controlling the lighting with just your voice. Google Home is one of the tentpole home assistant platforms and all of the bulbs listed here pair perfectly with all of the best Google Home compatible devices available. All you need to ask yourself as a consumer is how many bulbs you need for your home and how much are you willing to spend?Full-feature smart lightsTo experience the best that smart LED lights can offer, you'll want to start with ones that are entirely customizable with the full spectrum of colors available. Because these bulbs are way more expensive than any light bulb you've probably bought in your life, you're going to want to choose a brand that can satisfy all your smart lighting needs or piece together your house plan with bulbs that don't need a hub.Light your home with colorPhilips Hue Color Smar...

The Goldilocks sizeOculus Quest 2 128GB$299 at AmazonProsCheaperSupports all the same features and gamesRuns all original Oculus Quest gamesConsNo microSD slot for expandable storageThe 128GB Oculus Quest 2 supports all the same features and games as the larger storage version. Since Oculus upgraded the base model from 64GB to 128GB, it's easy to recommend the most affordable Quest 2 as the ideal model.More space to exploreOculus Quest 2 256GB$399 at AmazonProsEven more room for gamesExtra space for media storageRuns all original Oculus Quest gamesCons30% more expensive No microSD slot for expandable storageThe Oculus Quest 2 with 256GB of storage gives you enough room for 20 to 50 Oculus Quest games before running out of space. There's enough space where you can download a movie for offline viewing, but don't go crazy with that since there's no microSD card slot. Beyond that, this version has no exclusive features.Oculus Q...

It's not over just yet for the Pixel 3.What you need to knowGoogle is reportedly preparing a final update for the Pixel 3 series.Guaranteed security updates for the Pixel 3 and 3 XL ended in October.The update is expected to arrive in Q1 2022, skipping out on the December Feature Drop.The Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL have pretty much reached end-of-life, with their final major update coming in the form of Android 12 in October. It was also the last month they were guaranteed to receive security updates, however, those still holding onto these devices still have one final update to look forward to.9to5Google reports that Google will apparently roll out the final update for the devices early next year. This means the devices will skip the December feature drop just as they were left out of the November security patch.It's unclear what Google has planned for the update, but it will likely include a final set of bug fixes. Although, it's possible that Google may extend sup...

Switch to an annual 2Tb plan to take advantage of this offer.What you need to knowGoogle is giving away free 2nd-gen Nest Hubs to new Google One 2Tb tier annual subscribers.The offer is valid in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Germany from now until December 10, 2021.After upgrading to the 2Tb annual plan, you'll receive a code in your email that can be redeemed for the 2nd-gen Nest Hub.Running out of storage on your Google One plan? If you're considering upgrading your cloud storage amount, Google hopes you'll consider paying for the 2Tb plan on an annual basis and is willing to give away some free things in order to convince you to do it. Specifically, users who upgrade to the 2Tb Google One plan — paid annually, not monthly — will receive a code for a free 2nd-gen Nest Hub after making the switch.The fine print of the deal, found by 9to5Google, says that users who upgrade will receive an email about a week after they upgrade. That means you should ge...

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. It's also no surprise that Pixel 6 and 6 Pro users have access to this feature. 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 can do, have some fun w...

Voice commands can handle a lot more as well.What you need to knowThe v34 update is rolling out today on Oculus Quest headsets with new and improved features.Space Sense officially comes to the platform and allows users to see real life objects and other people from within the headset.The update also improves voice commands to handle more tasks and adds the ability to see Android phone notifications while in VR.The latest update for Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2 headsets is rolling out today and adds new and improved features to stay connected in virtual reality.The biggest addition in the v34 update is the new Space Sense feature. First datamined in an earlier Oculus Quest update, the feature allows users to see when real life objects or other people have entered their VR playing space without taking off the headset. Any furniture, people, or large pets that enter the user's Guardian bounds will be highlighted in the headset and "surrounded by a pink-ish glow."While ...

What you need to knowNetgear is releasing a 5G-enabled Orbi NBK752 Wi-Fi 6 tri-band mesh system.The Orbi can use 5G as the primary connection or as a seamless failover for a wired connection.A router and satellite with 5,000 square feet of coverage comes in at $1099.99 and works with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.Netgear has revealed a new 5G-enabled Wi-Fi 6 Orbi. This mesh system has an AX4200 tri-band Wi-Fi 6 connection with a dedicated backhaul to keep speeds high on the mesh. The pack comes with a main router and a satellite with a combined coverage of up to 5,000 square feet. The router also comes with an Ethernet WAN port so you can use wired internet sources as well.About 42 million Americans have no access to high-speed wired internet service making 5G and LTE the best way to get online. The Orbi supports 5G on all major carriers including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon with support for bands n2, n5, n25, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77 as well as LTE bands B2, 4, 5, 7...

The Google Pixel 4a was one of the most compelling phones of 2020, offering excellent performance and cameras for less than half the price of its flagship. While it might not cost thousands of dollars, that doesn't mean it's any less worthy of protection. Whether you need to spice up the Just Black of the Pixel 4a or need to keep it safe from the chaos outside your door, these are the best Pixel 4a cases you can buy right now.Pretty protectionCaseology Parallax for Google Pixel 4aStaff PickThis hybrid case comes in four dazzling color combinations — matte black, classic blue, purple, and a darling coral pink — and offers drop protection and grip in a compact profile.From $15 at Amazon $16 at WalmartGuard the front and backPoetic RevolutionThis heavy-duty case comes with a screen protector built into the front frame, offering 360 degrees of protection for your Pixel 4a. I also like the robust kickstand on the back that can be used in portrait or landscape.$15...

Running out of storage on your PS5? We've rounded up the best external drives and SSDs for PS5, and now you can use the internal M.2 SSD slot. Sony has finally confirmed hardware requirements for the M.2 slot on the PS5, and the latest software update allows you to use an internal SSD to increase your console's storage. These are the best M.2 SSDs for your PS5.PS5 M.2 SSD requirementsBefore we get started, we'll need to take a look at the list of hardware requirements for an M.2 SSD to work as an internal drive on the PS5. On Sept. 15, 2021, Sony released a software update that lets everyone use the M.2 SSD slot to extend the storage of their PS5 consoles.Sony's M.2 hardware guidelines are pretty stringent, so you will need to pick up the latest M.2 drives. These are the full requirements for an M.2 drive to work as internal storage on the PS5:PCIe Gen4 interfaceMinimum sequential read speeds of 5,500MB/sDrive storage has to be within 250GB to 4TBM.2 form factor with 22mm...

The Motorola Edge 2021 brings gaming phone-level high refresh rates to the mid-range segment. You would want to take care of that beautiful 6.8 inch LCD. To help you preserve your beloved phone's smooth display, we have rounded up the best Motorola Edge screen protectors for you.Plan A, B, and CSupershieldz Tempered Glass Screen Protector (3 Pack)Staff PickTempered glass screen protectors are the best of the lot as they don't take away much from the touchscreen experience. Supershieldz offers an excellent set of three for a bargain, making sure you always have backup pairs ready for your Motorola Edge.$8 (3-pack) at Amazon $8 (2-pack) at WalmartLeave nothing uncoveredTQLGY Camera Lens Protector, Tempered Glass (3+2 Pack)TQLGY's set of protectors includes tempered glass for your Motorola Edge's display as well as camera lens protectors. You get three units of the screen guard and two units of the camera protector. So say goodbye to scratches on your screen an...

In a world filled with GameStop stocks, football players getting paid in BitCoin, and TikTok on your TV, it can be hard to stay grounded and connected with the people you love. Thanks to this early Black Friday sale from Facebook, you can change that and save some money with the Facebook Portal smart display on sale for $79. That's $100 off its regular price.Facebook Portal | $100 offThis smart display puts a lot of emphasis on great video calls so you can check in with your friends and family during the holidays. It has a smart A.I. that can track you even while you move around during the call. Today's deal takes $100 off.$79 at FacebookRecent deals on the Portal devices required you to buy more than one, but if that was never in the cards for you then this deal might be better since you only need to get one to save. You can buy more than one if you want and still save. Add up to four in your cart and get them for $316 total instead of $716. The site lets you ship to mul...

Google's 2020 flagship could've been a great little mid-ranger for the next couple of years.RIP Pixel 5.Google's flagship phone for 2020 has essentially been discontinued in all eight markets where it was sold — following in the footsteps of the Pixel 4, which also barely lasted a year from emergence to early retirement.Google hasn't directly addressed the reason for the Pixel 5's discontinuation, but it seemed to acknowledge the situation in a statement this August, following the Pixel 5a launch. With our current forecasts, we expect Google Store in the U.S. to sell out of Pixel 4a (5G) and Pixel 5 in the coming weeks following the launch of Pixel 5a (5G). These products will continue to be available through some partners while supplies last.Our own sources tell us it's related to the global chip shortage, specifically the low availability of the device's Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor. The limited supplies that Google managed to secure instead went towards the ...

Now that's it's officially out, the PS5 is pretty hard to find due to low stock and high demand. However, as PlayStation fans continue to check the PS5 restocks, one of the most crucial accessories many players need alongside this extremely in-demand system is a headset.Not only does a headset enhance your gaming experience with its immersive qualities, but thanks to the variety of incredible multiplayer games available, you'll need something to interact with your friends and other players. Thankfully, there are tons of wireless options available, so we put together a list that features some of the best wireless PS5 headsets on the market.The best Wireless PS5 Headsets 2021, at a glance:SteelSeries Arctis 7P for PlayStation 5: Best overall: The best bang for your buck.Pulse 3D Wireless Headset: Best official: The official model and supported headset for the PS5.Sennheiser GSP 370: Best audio quality: A reliable, stellar entry.HyperX Cloud II Wireless - Gaming Headset: Best b...

The latest additions make Samsung Internet a great alternative to Google's Chrome browser.What you need to knowA new beta version of the Samsung Internet app is now available.The latest update makes it possible to move the address bar to the bottom of the screen. Along with making the app easier to use on Galaxy phones with tall screens, the update also adds support for tab groups. Samsung Internet is one of the best Android browsers available, offering a great scrolling experience and a clean user interface. Samsung has now released a new beta version of the app, adding a few highly-anticipated features (via SamMobile).Samsung Internet beta v16.0.2.15, which is now rolling out to the company's best Android phones, finally adds the ability to move the address bar from the top of the screen to the bottom. The functionality will make browsing the web a lot easier on phones like Galaxy S21 Ultra.To move the address bar to the bottom of the screen, open the Samsung Internet...

Not much has changed from last year, but that doesn't mean the iPhone 13 is boring — far from it.Most of the attention for this year's iPhone launch was directed towards the Pro series, and for good reason. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max offer 120Hz OLED panels for the first time, new camera hardware with the ability to shoot cinematic videos, all-new internal hardware, and larger batteries that last over a day with ease.The regular iPhone 13, on the other hand, still uses a 60Hz panel — like last year's iPhone 12 — and retains the same design aesthetic. While it doesn't look like there are too many new features this time around, Apple has upgraded the essentials. The iPhone 13 has a new 12MP primary camera with sensor-shift stabilization, the same A15 Bionic as the Pro model, and a larger 3240mAh battery that ensures it lasts all day without any issues whatsoever.Another noteworthy change this year is that the iPhone 13 base model comes with 128GB of storage as ...

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 November 2. Enjoy the price of free until December 1, 2021.★Dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodgeKnockout City (PS5 & PS4)The fan-favorite dodgeball multiplayer game is back again, this time free for players who missed out on the chance to dive into the free trial for it when it initially launched. Electronic Arts recently entered the game's second season with a Hollywood-themed map and brand new activities for players.See at PlayStation★ Who dunnit?First Class Trouble (PS5 & PS4)First Class Trouble is a social deduction party game where six players aboard a luxury space cruiser try to stop a rogue A.I. However, two of the six players will take on the roles of...

The app has introduced a cloud clipboard feature that's long been available to Galaxy S21 owners.Update, Nov 2 (7:39 a.m. ET): SwiftKey clipboard syncing rolls out to everyone following its beta testingWhat you need to knowMicrosoft's SwiftKey Beta app has picked up a new update for its clipboard feature.The new capability lets you sync your clipboard history across your Android phone and Windows PC.The feature retains your collection of copied texts only for an hour.Microsoft's SwiftKey Beta app has added a new capability that allows you to sync your Android phone's clipboard with your Windows PC. The new feature has rolled out as part of the latest update to one of the best keyboard apps for Android.Cloud clipboard syncing can help you save time for text entry, and it comes in handy especially if you're in the habit of switching between your PC and mobile device. With SwiftKey Beta version 7.8.5.3, duplicating your copied text across all your devices can feel like a b...

Mass AppealAmazon Fire HD 8 (2020)From $45 at AmazonProsFaster processorMore RAM and higher storage capacityUSB-C charging portRefreshed design and colorsGame ModeConsNo wireless chargingCameras are still mehThe 2020 edition of Amazon's Fire HD 8 tablet brings the iterative updates that you'd expect in terms of increased RAM, storage, and processor capabilities. It adds to that a design refresh and additional color options. In some respects, it may be bested by the HD 8 Plus, but we still think this offers excellent value for the price.Next LevelAmazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2020)From $55 at AmazonProsEven faster processor and more RAM than HD 8USB-C charging portFast-chargingWireless chargingGame ModeConsMore expensive than HD 8Only available in one color optionSame lackluster cameras as HD 8The Fire HD 8 Plus marks the first time Amazon attempted to differentiate tablets or e-readers in the same line with premium features. No doub...

Mesh systems are fast and expensive, but do you need one?Mesh Wi-Fi networks are the new thing and that's great because mesh networks can put fast Wi-Fi where you need it without needing to run a single new wire. Setting up your own mesh Wi-Fi network is simple, thanks to consumer gear that does the hard work for you. For most systems, you only need a smartphone with an app to get going. The only problem is the price. Mesh systems can be quite pricey and really, many of us don't need them.At the same time, standard routers are getting much better and some of them have even incorporated mesh capabilities into the software. Even without those mesh abilities, many people will get plenty of coverage by upgrading to one of the best Wi-Fi 6 routers rather than moving to a mesh. Faster speeds and improved range are more than buzzwords when it comes to buying the latest Wi-Fi router, and you'll often find advanced tools that a simplified mesh system offers.That leads to the obvious que...

The phone's back panel will supposedly look like that of the Galaxy S21 and S21+ sans a metallic finish.What you need to knowThe Samsung Galaxy S21 FE's supposed backplate has leaked online.The new leak reveals three cutouts for the rear camera, resembling that of the Galaxy S21 and S21+.We may also have our first look at the actual colors of the phone's various models.Samsung's upcoming "flagship killer" is presumably two months away from its launch, if a recent report is to be believed. As the company inches closer to unveiling the Galaxy S21 FE, more leaks are to be expected, with the latest one being the phone's backplate.Courtesy of prolific leaker Roland Quandt, the supposed backplate of the Galaxy S21 FE reveals a design that resembles the back panels of the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S21+. This means a triple camera setup on the back, as indicated by the three cutouts, though this information is nothing new. Another cutout sitting outside the camera island is likely fo...

Generac says the acquisition will create a home energy ecosystem that would bring benefits to both homeowners and grid operators.What you need to knowSmart home company Ecobee has been acquired by generator giant Generac in a $770 million deal.Ecobee was founded in 2007 and currently has over 500 employees globally. Generac expects the acquisition to be completed during the fourth quarter. Generac Holdings announced on November 1 that it has signed an agreement with Ecobee to acquire the Toronto-based smart home company in a transaction valued at $770 million. The generator giant says the acquisition is likely to close during the fourth quarter of the year.Stuart Lombard, founder and chief executive officer of Ecobee, said in a statement: Generac's evolution into an energy technology solutions company creates many opportunities to integrate our ecobee products with their residential device offerings, enabling direct monitoring and control of a significant portion of t...

Now you can really be down with the Gen Z.What you need to knowTikTok is now available on Fire TV devices in the U.S.The app functions similarly to the mobile app, albeit only for viewing content.Echo Show devices are expected to receive support soon.Amazon announced on Monday that TikTok is now available on its Fire TV devices in the U.S. and Canada, meaning more parents can join in on the latest craze with their kids.With the new app, users will be able to view TikTok content as they normally would on any of the best Android phones or other devices. Users will be able to pull up and control TikTok using the Alexa Voice Remote wither with their voice or on-device controls.Fire TV users will have access to the "For You" and "Following" tabs in the app, and it even supports autoplay so you can continue watching content on your TV without pause.The app is available via the Appstore on the best Amazon Fire TV sticks as well as the company's new in-house-built Fire TV set...

Samsung really wants to position the Galaxy Z Flip 3 as a style icon.What you need to knowSamsung partners with an apparel brand Dr Denim on exclusive jeans.The Z Flip Pocket Denim jeans feature a dedicated pocket for the Galaxy Z Flip 3.Every order comes with a Z Flip 3, but for a price.After launching the Bespoke edition of the Galaxy Z Flip 3, Samsung continues to hype up its latest foldable phone as a style product for the hip, young crowd. Its latest effort — an exclusive pair of jeans made for the Z Flip 3.Samsung has partnered with Dr Denim on a new pair of jeans designed to carry the Galaxy Z Flip 3 while doing away with most of the pockets. The pockets have been completely removed on the back, while the front pockets are stitched over with Zs.However, there is a small pocket on the thigh of the jeans that is "scaled down to the exact dimensions of the Galaxy Z Flip3.""Smartphones are often not pocket friendly," says Hayley Walton, Head of Brand Marketing ...

Samsung's foldables will get a taste of One UI soon.Update, Oct 29 (1:45 p.m. ET): Rollout begins in some regionsUpdate, Nov 1 (4:30 p.m. ET): U.S. models reportedly eligibleWhat you need to knowSamsung is preparing to launch the One UI 4 beta for its foldable smartphones.The beta will allow Samsung to try out its new software on a new form factor before the stable release.Samsung is expected to launch the stable One UI 4 update before the end of the year.Owners of Samsung foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 3 can rejoice, as they'll soon have a chance to try out the One UI 4 beta.The announcement comes from a Samsung community manager, (via SammyFans), who says the "One UI beta program for Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 will start soon, so please be patient."Not much information is provided about the program, including when it'll kick-off. Given the announcement, it should be any moment now.Samsung has taken to the virtual stage on Tuesday to discuss its plans for fol...

Don't miss out on these Nest deals!What you need to knowGoogle is deeply discounting its Nest Audio speaker ahead of Black Friday.The smart speaker can be had for nearly half-off its original price.Google is also discounting its second-gen Nest Hub with Soli sleep tracking.Google is getting ahead of the Black Friday rush by discounting some of its best products. The Nest Audio is receiving a considerable discount, bringing it down to nearly half its original price. Google is also discounting its Nest Hub (2nd Gen).Initially launching at $100, Nest Audio is one of the best smart speakers you can buy right now. It has rarely seen a discount this steep, with Google slashing its price down to just $60. Our review for the Nest Audio highlights just how impressive the sound quality is, not to mention its far-field mics for picking up your voice across the room, making it easy to bark commands at Google Assistant.With several different colors available, it's also easy for th...

Pixel 6 devices seem to already have the update.What you need to knowGoogle is updating its Pixel lineup with the latest November security patch.The update includes several bug fixes for Pixel phones from the 3a to the Pixel 6 Pro.Pixel 6 owners should have received the update upon setting up their devices.The November security update is rolling out for Pixel owners running Android 12, bringing with it new security enhancements and several bug fixes. This update should have already been pushed out for owners of the new Pixel 6 when it arrived last week, with Google prompting users to update their devices upon setup, but more Pixels should be seeing the update come starting today.The November patch has several Pixel 6-exclusive fixes and enhancements, such as improved Wi-Fi stability, better picture-in-picture mode for some apps, auto-brightness enhancements, and Bluetooth and wireless charging improvements.Meanwhile, other Pixel devices are receiving a myriad of fixes a...

The regular Pixel 6 was the only one to get actual color options and not just metallic shades, and we deserve to flaunt those fun colors and bold accents around that eye-catching camera bar stretching across the back. This is one of the best Android phones with half a decade of updates ahead of it, and if you want your new phone to last that long, you need to grab one of the best Pixel 6 cases you can.Come to the dark sideCaseology Parallax for Google Pixel 6Staff PickWhile not many cases yet highlight that pop of red at the top of the Kinda Coral Pixel 6, Caseology leaped right in. So whether you're tracking rebel scum across the galaxy or lording over your domain, the Parallax will help you keep an iron grip upon your Pixel 6, thanks to the new diamond grip pads along the bumper.$15 at AmazonKickstands kick buttPoetic RevolutionThe Revolution is already a heavy-duty case with heavy-duty thickness, but Poetic makes excellent use of it by adding a kickstand that w...

Best answer: The same machine learning that helps improve portrait photos and power Magic Eraser also makes the Pixel 6 camera more inclusive for all skin tones through its Real Tone feature.What is Real Tone?Google developed its Real Tone camera tech with a mission to make its camera and image products more equitable when photographing people of color, especially for those with darker skin tones. Historically, a lack of diverse testing meant that today's cameras weren't built to accurately portray all skin tones in their natural beauty. Unfortunately, this also means that smartphones continue to carry that bias, ultimately delivering unflattering photos for people of color. But it's not just smartphone cameras that struggle here. We've seen all sorts of camera-enabled tech issues when it comes to people who aren't light-skinned.So with the launch of its Pixel 6, Google is trying to tackle this issue using Real Tone. With this feature, the camera hardware and software work in t...

This season's surprise package will be once again looking to exceed expectations as Dallas head to the U.S. Bank Stadium to take on a Minnesota side looking to make it four wins in a row.Read on for full details on how to watch Cowboys vs Vikings, no matter where you are in the world.Unexpectedly riding high at the top of the NFC East with a 5-1 record, the Cowboys currently lead the league for yards per game (460.8), yards per play (6.58), and points per game (34.2).Key to their success has been the superb form of running backs Ezekiel Elliot and Tony Pollard who are both on track to hit 1,000 rushing yards this season.Like their opponents, Minnesota come into this game off the back of a bye week, bringing a bit of breathing space after a whirlwind few weeks that has seen the Vikings notch up a trio of consecutive victories.Currently laying second in the NFC North with a 3-3 record, their uptick in results marks a big turnaround for Kirk Cousins and co after a difficult star...

Gmail's big Compose button is coming back to desktops.What you need to knowGoogle announced a new update for the Compose button of Gmail on the web.The button will revert to its original large design following a popular demand.Gmail on the web will bring back the big Compose button on November 3.Google appears to have recognized that removing the old large Gmail button for creating a new email on desktop did not sit well with the majority of users. The old Compose button is now making a comeback on many of the best laptops.The search giant has announced that the original big button will return to Gmail on the web starting on November 3. Googled noted that it has come up with this decision after hearing from users that the original version of the button was more intuitive.Aside from the larger size, there will be a few design changes. The four-color plus button that represented Google's Material Theme design, for example, will no longer be available. Instead, the web-bas...

The Oculus Quest 2 may be a mobile headset, but it's actually dangerous to take it on the go without protection. Carry it in a backpack, and stray junk like a pencil could scratch the unprotected lenses and ruin them. Even if you only keep it at home, sunlight permanently damages the lenses, so you'll need to keep it enclosed when not in use. Oculus sells a Carrying Case with plenty of capacity for your Elite Strap and accessories; or, if you want something more travel-sized or hard-shelled, we've chosen the other best Oculus Quest 2 cases to consider.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, contr...

Want to upgrade your Android experience? Try upgrading your launcher.The way we arrange, organize, and interact with our apps on Android is called the launcher. Launchers usually consist of a series of home screens, where we can arrange app shortcuts and widgets while the rest of our apps sit in an app drawer. From the best Android phones to the most basic budget smartphone, every phone comes with a launcher. Some built-in launchers are great, but when they drop the ball, there are endless third-party launchers that not only pick it up again but knock it clear out of the park. Everyone has their perfect launcher, but if you haven't found your favorite yet, then here are the best Android launchers that we at Android Central have used and loved for years.The best launchersBest Overall Smart Launcher 5Resurging Legacy Nova LauncherSwiss Army Launcher Action LauncherBest Productivity Microsoft LauncherQuick and Simple Niagara LauncherBest Overall: Smart Launcher 5 ...

Meta here, Meta there, Meta everywhere!In case you missed it, Facebook has a new name. The company is now going by "Meta" to highlight its focus on building the metaverse and how the company is no longer just about the Facebook app (which gets to keep its name, btw). But before CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the name change, he walked us through several updates to the company's AR and VR efforts, especially as they relate to the Oculus Quest 2 and future products.What were your favorite announcements from Connect?What was your favorite announcement from Connect?While much of the focus of the Connect keynote on Thursday was on the metaverse, many announcements were geared toward Meta's VR efforts with Oculus. The company divulged several functional updates to its platform that should please VR enthusiasts, such as including 2D apps like Dropbox, Slack, Instagram, and more.One nice change is the new cloud save system that automatically backs up your game data without worrying...

How is the Pixel 6 both the best camera and the worst camera at the same time? Bias and Google still fine-tuning.I've been using my Google Pixel 6 for two weeks now, and while writing its review for Android Central, the section that honestly felt the easiest to write for me was the camera section. The main sensor kicked out great photos day or night, and the videos I took were wonderful. While white levels missed every so often, it was always within the range for the highlights/shadows toggles to fix.In short, the Pixel 6's main sensor photos were great. Once those words were written, though, the urge to change or hedge them gnawed at me for days. Once the rest of the reviews for the Google Pixel 6 series came in, that gnawing turned into a heavy stone. A lot of reviewers weren't fans of that new 50MP sensor at all, but just as many found the Pixel 6 to be a great camera that only needed some minor fine-tuning.Source: Danny WingetOur own Nicholas Sutrich said in his 6 P...

The phone is likely set to debut at CES 2022.What you need to knowThe Samsung Galaxy S21 FE is reportedly launching at CES 2022.The new launch window is slightly in line with a previous rumor claiming the device would debut on January 11.CES 2022 will take place between January 5 and 8, 2022.Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S21 FE figured in numerous leaks and rumors in the past, with the most recent report indicating a January 11 launch date. It now appears that the device will be unveiled a little sooner than previously expected.As per SamMobile, the Galaxy S21 FE is confirmed for launch at CES 2022, which will take place between January 5 and 8 in Las Vegas. The new launch window slightly coincides with the previous rumor, giving us hope that the device is indeed happening despite previous reports suggesting that Samsung would shelve the whole thing.If this pans out, Samsung will be announcing a Galaxy phone at a major tech event for the first time in a long time. The South...

Heroes of the Dark throws in a lot of features, but balances them surprisingly well.One of the biggest strengths of mobile RPG Heroes of the Dark is how well it ties together and balances its many different ideas. On the surface, Gameloft's new horror-themed game appears to be juggling far too much at once, its base-building mechanic at odds with the hero collecting, its multiple currencies, and resources clashing with the simplicity of sending your heroes into battle. This is not the case, however, as not only does each mechanic work well together, each element of the game offers something that keeps you entertained. The game also runs very well on Android devices, its stability and smoothness remarkable considering its size.RenovationsHeroes of the Dark is set in the fictional land of Tenebris, one that has been taken over by the ominous-sounding High Council. The player is tasked with taking it back using your horror-themed heroes, and there are many different parts of the...

The future may or may not be the alternate reality paradise that Mark Zuckerberg and company promised us. But if it is, our privacy will matter more than ever.The artist formerly known as Facebook is now Meta. We here at Android Central heard a lot about the promising future of the all-new Metaverse from the company on Thursday. But one area, in particular, was noticeably glossed over: user privacy and security.That's never a good thing and is especially bad whenever a company tries to rebrand or assure consumers how it plans to change and make improvements in the future. This, of course, goes double when that company is Facebook. Facebook used to be the darling of the tech world, but has recently fallen into a new role where nobody trusts it. Honestly, it's the company's own fault.This matters to most people who visit tech websites like Android Central. We care about how the companies that make our connected devices, and the software that runs them, treat our privacy. This is ...

No more silly grammatical mistakes as you typeWhat you need to knowGboard has added a grammar correction feature that is only available on the Google Pixel 6 series.The new feature detects grammatical errors as you type and offers real-time corrections.It currently supports English, with plans to add additional language support in the future.Google has rolled out a new feature for Gboard on the Google Pixel 6 series that detects grammatical errors in real time, expanding the app's existing capabilities designed to make it easier to type on a mobile device.The new feature is intended to check for grammatical errors as you type, but it won't start until you've typed more than three words. Google also trained the feature to function even in the case of incomplete sentences. Grammar errors will then be highlighted, and replacement suggestions will appear at the top of the keyboard.Google also addressed memory constraints by creating an AI model that can perform grammar co...

Having been spared the sack after last weekend's dire display by Man United against fierce rivals Liverpool, under pressure boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer takes charge of the Red Devils in a seemingly make-or-break clash with Spurs - read on to find out how to get a Tottenham vs Man United live stream from anywhere in the world.The 5-0 hammering dished out by Jurgen Klopp's men last Sunday at Old Trafford will be marked out as one of the lowest points in United's recent history, and served to underline just how far behind the club are from the likes of Man City and Liverpool.Solskjaer's reprieve offers the Norwegian a chance to reverse a recent run of results that has seen United claim just a single point from the last 12 available.United come up against a Spurs side also looking to address a worrying run of results, with last weekend's stilted showing by Harry Kane and co in the 1-0 defeat away to West Ham marking the fourth consecutive London derby defeat Tottenham have suffered t...

Sunday in the Superdome sees the intense rivalry between these two sides rekindled as Tampa Bay take on New Orleans for NFC South supremacy.Read on for full details on how to watch Buccaneers vs Saints, no matter where you are in the world.The expectations are high for this fixture, after last year's meeting between the two rivals saw the Saints brush past the Bucs in the regular season in a match that saw Tom Brady throw a combined five interceptions, only for Tampa Bay to gain revenge when it mattered, winning their later divisional playoffs clash.All eyes will be on former Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston, who was made to make way for Brady in 2020, and has gone on to become Drew Brees' successor with the Saints.New Orleans come into the game with a 4-2 record and their defence on a high after they restricted the Seahawks to just 219 yards in their 10-13 win at home to Seahawks on Monday.The Buccaneers' meanwhile delivered a 38-3 thrashing to the Bears last weekend, in a ma...

This weekend the UFC is doing things a bit differently as the promotion is returning to its Fight Island facility in the United Arab Emirates for UFC 267 and we have all the details on how you can watch Blachowicz vs Teixerira online or on TV.At UFC 267's Main Event, 42-year-old Brazilian fighter Glover Teixeira will challenge 38-year-old Polish fighter Jan Balchowicz for his Light Heavyweight Championship. Blachowicz is going into tonight's fight with a five fight win streak and during his last match, he defeated Israel Adesanya by unanimous decision in round five. Teixeira meanwhile is also going into tonight's fight with a five fight win streak and though his last appearance was at a UFC Fight Night back in November of last year. In that match, he defeated Thiago Santos by submission in round three.In UFC 267's Co-Main Event, 28-year-old Peter "No Mercy" Yan will take on 29-year-old Cory Sandhagen in a Bantamweight Interim Title Bout. Both fighters lost their last matches with...

Acquisitions and partnerships will help Facebook/Meta steal loyal customers for its future platform.What you need to knowMeta has acquired VR company Within and its exercise app Supernatural, one of the most popular games on the Oculus Quest 2.Within was founded in 2014 and has released dozens of virtual movies, documentaries, animated experiences, and games.Supernatural will use Meta's resources to add new workout types, licensed music, and "more social experiences."The virtual gym simulator with daily workouts and coaching currently costs $19/month.On Friday, Meta (formerly Facebook) announced it had bought Within VR and its exercise game Supernatural, one of the best Oculus Quest 2 games available today. Supernatural will remain an independent group inside of the Meta Reality Labs umbrella.Supernatural was one of the first VR games to charge a subscription. You pay a hefty fee per month in exchange for new daily workouts and licensed music. Other VR exercise apps tend...

There are plenty of Alexa-enabled devices out there today, and making your home smarter and more secure is easier than ever with Amazon Alexa smart locks. One of the most significant conveniences in a home can come from installing a smart lock, so you never have to fish a key out again, and you can also manage guests easier. These are the best smart locks that support Amazon's Alexa voice assistant, although our favorite is the August Smart Lock Pro, which is stylish, easy to install, and works with most smart homes.Best overall: August Smart Lock ProThe Smart Lock Pro is a stylish lock that works with most existing deadbolts, meaning you don't need to replace your keys to use it. Instead, you can lock and unlock the door with an Alexa command, or the door can automatically unlock as you approach it with your smartphone. It supports smart home standards like Z-Wave Plus and Apple's HomeKit and includes a Connect bridge that allows it to work over Wi-Fi. That included bridge is ...