Latest from Android Central

Big changes are on the way.What you need to knowFollowing its latest closed beta, Diablo Immortal is set to undergo some more changes ahead of its launch.These include changes to the raid system, social mechanics, set items, and more. More information on the game is set to come in the future. Ahead of its release later this year, Diablo Immortal is set to undergo a variety of big changes.Following a recent round of beta testing for the mobile game, Diablo Immortal's game director Wyatt Cheng explained some of the many changes in a recent blog post. These include things like controller support being tweaked to detect the presence of a controller immediately, all the way to large-scale changes on some of Diablo Immortal's biggest mechanics.However, perhaps most importantly, the team at Blizzard have set out to improve various social and group-play functions in Diablo Immortal, including changing how the bounty system in the game works. After some players voiced their opin...

Back to the Wizarding World we go.The long-rumored Harry Potter RPG is real and it's bringing us back to the Wizarding World of centuries ago, long before Harry and his friends ever made it to the famous school. Hogwarts Legacy was officially unveiled during a PlayStation showcase, so we could expect some marketing deals with Sony's platform. However, if you're looking for information regarding its gameplay, story, release date, and even J.K. Rowling's involvement with it, you've come to the right place.Hogwarts Legacy:What is Hogwarts Legacy?What's the story?What's the gameplay like?Is J.K. Rowling involved?Release date and platformsWhat is Hogwarts Legacy?Hogwarts Legacy is an open-world RPG set around the late 1800s that allows you to customize your own character in the Harry Potter universe. Warner Bros. says that players can "craft potions, master spell casting, and upgrade talents," among other things. Judging from the trailer, it looks like one of the w...

Get a SIM card, free shipping, and 5GB of data for $0.99 when you switch.Boost Mobile wants customers to try out its service and it's willing to give you a chance to try it out with almost no risk. Available to new customers only, those who want to give Boost Mobile a try can get a free SIM card with free shipping and a 5GB for s steep discount. The first month costs just $0.99 and $25 per month after that. This plan also has unlimited talk and texting so if you don't need a ton of data, this is a great place to start.If you find that 5GB of data isn't quite enough, you can pick another Boost Mobile plan to suit your needs including a 10GB and 35GB option. If you don't need that much, a 2GB plan is also available. This plan also allows you to use your data on other devices with your phone's mobile hotspot feature.While Boost Mobile is owned by Dish Wireless, it primarily used T-Mobile's network for its plans. This also includes T-Mobile's 5G network which is the largest in the co...

Players around the world will need to wait a little bit longer.What you need to knowPokémon TCG Live is available in beta on Android.Only those in Canada can currently access the beta.Pokémon TCG Live will release globally on the Google Play Store at a later date.Players in Canada can now download the Pokémon TCG Live beta through the Google Play Store on Android. Meant as a replacement for Pokémon TCG Online, Pokémon TCG Live will be the definitive version of the competitive card game.Nintendo states that the decision to limit the beta's launch to Canada at the moment is so that the team can "collect gameplay feedback that will help shape a positive experience at scale once the online game is globally released." As for a final release date, the company hasn't revealed when those in the United States can get their hands on it.If you're one of the those lucky enough to be in Canada during this beta, you'll be happy to hear that any in-game progress made will carry o...

A new option to untag yourself from Twitter threads and mute notifications might be in the pipeline.What you need to knowTwitter seems to be developing a new capability to leave a conversation.Leaving a thread will untag your username and silence further notifications, but you'll still see the discussion.It will also prevent other people from mentioning you in the same thread.Twitter is apparently experimenting with a new feature that will limit how other people engage with your account. The micro-blogging site is testing a new "Leave this conversation" button, according to Jane Manchun Wong, who has a reputation for discovering unreleased features.The new option will allow you to completely unsubscribe from a conversation in which you do not want to participate, such as an unsolicited thread or total spam. This means untagging your username, which will then appear as plain text instead of a hyperlinked handle.Twitter is working on an onboarding screen for “Leave this...

All Pokémon are S+ tier in my eyes. Except for Stunfisk. I do not much care for Stunfisk.A new take on a long-established formula, Pokémon Unite pits teams of five trainers against each other, each armed with just a single Pokémon. Pokémon can evolve, hold items to improve their standing, and even learn new moves during battle, but some Pokémon have natural advantages over others — which is why we're heartlessly ranking them here. But let the record show that if my editor let me, this would be a tier list based on how huggable these cuties are.Tragically for me, we're instead ranking them based on how well they perform overall, along with how they perform in their respective categories of All-Rounder, Attacker, Defender, Speedster, and Supporter.Only a fraction of all (extremely huggable) existing Pokémon are currently represented in Unite — there are just 31, including a limited-time Zeraora. As such, the list of Pokémon in Pokémon Unite is nowhere near the hundred...

You can get a lot of phones for a modest price these days, and to prove it, we've rounded up a list of the best Android phones under $300 for your consideration. The best phones overall mostly come down to network compatibility and confidence that your software won't be out of date as soon as you activate it. The Samsung Galaxy A13 5G hits the mark with support for low-band and mid-band 5G, enough power to run just about any app, and Android 11 installed with Android 12 coming later in the year.Best overall Android phone under $300: Samsung Galaxy A13 5GThe Mediatek Dimensity 700 CPU package in the Galaxy A13 5G isn't winning any awards in benchmarks, but when it comes to day-to-day tasks and even light 3D gaming, it can hold its own. Paired with a generous 4GB of RAM and a 5,000mAh battery, this phone can keep you connected until the end of the day with plenty of battery life to get you home. If you're someone that works away from an outlet and needs to drive or commute a long...

Going GoogleGoogle Pixel 6From $599 at AmazonFrom $599 at Best BuyFrom $599 at GoogleProsSmooth performanceFantastic camerasAndroid 12's Material You looks greatPixel-specific Google Assistant features are wonderfulGoogle-designed processorConsDisplay is only 90Hz and 500 nitsNo telephoto lensPotentially fewer updates than S22The Pixel 6 represents Google's commitment to making smartphones with a custom processor, a bold design, and improvements to its already impressive cameras. Strangely, it could get fewer software updates than the Galaxy S22.Oh so closeSamsung Galaxy S22From $800 at AmazonFrom $800 at Best BuyFrom $800 at SamsungProsBrighter and faster displayGreat performanceFour years of OS updates3X telephoto lensClean hardware designConsSmaller batteryMissing some Google Assistant featuresMore expensiveThe Galaxy S22 is one of the best phones from Samsung in years, thanks to its excellent display, great cameras, ...

They look a lot like their predecessors, with slightly tweaked cameras.What you need to knowA new leak shows off renders of what could be the Google Pixel 7 Pro.The renders reveal a generally similar design to last year's Pixel 6 Pro.A separate leak also uncovers the supposed renders of the vanilla Pixel 7 in line with the Pro version.Some key details about the upcoming Google Pixel 7 series emerged a few days ago thanks to a new leak claiming that Google was working on three devices, with two of them supposedly powered by the Tensor 2 chipset.We didn't have any renders or sketches to go along with the leak then, so we had no idea what the Google Pixel 6 series successor would look like. Today, thanks to a couple of leaks, we may have our first look at the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Reliable leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer (@OnLeaks), in collaboration with SmartPrix, has tweeted a number of 5K renders of what he claims to be the Pixel 7 Pro. Interestingly, the phone resembles t...

Everything about the Samsung Galaxy S22 is lovable, but that stupendous Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is what'll render you speechless. You'd better defend that beautiful panel with all your might. For that, you'll need one or two of the best Samsung Galaxy S22 screen protectors. Here are our top selections to protect and serve your Galaxy S22's screen.Name brand protectionWhitestone Dome Glass Screen Protector for Samsung Galaxy S22Staff PickUV-cured tempered glass screen protectors have become popular in the last few years, but Whitestone still has the best kit for easy installation. This two-pack will keep you covered even if the first protector gives its life to protect your Galaxy S22.$50 at AmazonCase friendly and kills germsZAGG InvisibleShield Flexible Hybrid Protection with D3OZAGG's InvisibleShield Flexible Hybrid Protection uses the same tech that Samsung does for its biometric scanner. This screen protector is compatible with all manner of Galaxy S22 cas...

No matter what type of runner you are, there's a Garmin Forerunner model with your name on it. As you may know, Garmin supplies some of the best Android smartwatches out there. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly option or you're currently gearing up for a triathlon, the options are endless. We've rounded up the best Garmin Forerunner models to help you decide which one is the right fit for all of your running needs.Go-to GarminGarmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running WatchStaff PickThose who are seeking a mid-range GPS running watch will appreciate the Garmin Forerunner 245 and all of its features. You get a heart-rate sensor, seven days of battery life in smartwatch mode, and robust activity tracking. Most importantly, you can get in-depth details on your runs, including training load, training status, and training effect. The Pulse Ox sensor helps you better gauge how your body is absorbing oxygen.$245 at Amazon$300 at Best BuyStarting placeGarmin Forerunner 5...

You'll need to own Java Edition to play.What you need to knowQuestcraft beta is a port of Minecraft Java Edition for the Oculus Quest and Meta Quest 2.Players will need to own Minecraft Java Edition in order to play.Questcraft is a free download but will need to be sideloaded.If you've been waiting for Mojang to finally get around to porting Minecraft VR, your wait is sort of over. Questcraft is now available in beta for the original Oculus Quest and the Meta Quest 2, and it enables players to jump into the world of Minecraft Java Edition right on their Quest headsets. This is a native version of the game, too, so you won't need to have a PC that can run Minecraft in order to play.Developer CADIndie has put up a quick tutorial on YouTube that walks you through the steps but, first, you'll need to make sure you know how to install SideQuest on your Quest headset.SideQuest is a 3rd-party marketplace that allows users to install all sorts of mods, indie games, and fun apps...

No matter how beautiful your shiny new Galaxy S22+ is, it won't stay beautiful should it slip out of your hands onto rough asphalt or unforgiving stone. Grip and impact absorption are the only cures, and to get both, you need a top-notch case. Thankfully, we have the best Galaxy S22+ cases for you right here for you to pick from.Classic design, bold colorsPoetic NeonThis two-layer design is a throwback for many of us, but it's still secure and sound, and the eight colorways here beat the pants off the OtterBox Commuter Series. The only thing missing is a dust flap, and silicone plugs are easier to use, anyway.From $19 at AmazonTop-notch textureSpigen Liquid Air for Galaxy S22+The triangular texture across the back of this case is grippy without being a dust and grime magnet like Samsung's official silicone case, and air-cushion channels across the case's lining can help soften drops.$16 at AmazonSo fun yet functionalGalaxy S22 Series Silicone Cover with Strap...

Amazon recently made it even easier to access live streaming content on its Fire TV devices by updating the functionality of the Live tab. As part of the update, Fire TV users can now customize their integrated channel guide by adding their favorite live channels. With that in mind, we've put together this handy how-to for using the Amazon Fire TV Live tab menu.How to add live channelsThe Amazon Fire TV Live tab menu is located on the homepage and allows users to see what content is currently streaming live, and displays categories like news, sports, and recently watched movies or shows. Users can also add live channels from their favorite free and subscription-based apps to their guide for a more personalized streaming experience. Here's how to do just that.Navigate to the Fire TV homepage and scroll to the Live tab.Under the Live tab, select Guide and On Now. While in the channel guide, press the Menu button on the Alexa Voice Remote.When the options menu opens, scroll ...

The new Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 takes everything you love about the S7 Series to the next level. In addition to featuring an 11-inch LCD screen, the Tab S8 features 8GB of RAM and faster Wi-Fi speeds. But none of that matters if you don't have a solid case to protect your shiny new tablet. With that in mind, we've rounded up some of the best Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 cases available right now.Built to lastSpigen Rugged Armor ProStaff PickThe Spigen Rugged Armor Pro case features a bold, car-inspired design with carbon fiber details and a matte black finish. It's also compatible with the Spigen brand screen protector and includes Air Cushion Technology, which promises a snug fit and excellent shock absorption.$30 at AmazonDurable & sleekRingke Fusion Case (2022)This cover features a durable, transparent PC back and TPU bumper to protect your Galaxy Tab S8's LCD touchscreen display. It also comes with built-in QuikCatch Lanyard holes to add straps for hands-free...

Google thinks the feature is no longer necessary.What you need to knowGoogle has decided to "turn off" Chrome's Lite mode.The data-saving feature will no longer be available starting March 29. Google says the feature is no longer necessary as mobile data has become cheaper in recent years, and Chrome has received many improvements that allow it to further minimize data usage. Google Chrome for Android offers a nifty feature called Lite mode that helps users save data when browsing. Nearly eight years after it was first introduced, Google has announced in a post on the Chrome support page that the feature will be discontinued with the release of Chrome 100 to the stable channel (via Android Police).When Chrome's Lite mode is enabled, Google servers simplify the requested web page to ensure less data is downloaded to your device. This not only helps minimize data usage but also allows pages to load faster.Google has decided to "turn off" the feature as it has seen a drop ...

As high-end phones get more expensive, awesome budget Android phones get even better. We've researched and ranked all of the best Android phones under $500 you can buy today. Whether you're looking to get connected with 5G or just want to get as much as possible for your money, our buyer's guide will help you find the perfect phone for you. Here are some of our top choices for the most inexpensive phones available now.What are the best budget Android phones?Last year was tremendous for Android phones in the budget space, and fortunately, this trend continued well into 2022. We're seeing features like multiple cameras, faster processors, and 5G hit price points that would have been unheard of just a couple of years ago. Because of that, there's a wealth of quality options for Android phones under $500 that won't make you feel like you're compromising.For our top picks, you can't go wrong with the Google Pixel 5a. This phone makes the most of its hardware with excellent image proce...

It may not bear the Note name, but the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra carries on its spirit and its garaged S Pen. Powerful, productive, and quite pretty in its Green and Burgundy colorways, your S22 Ultra deserves the best case you can get. After all, it is one of the best Android phones on the market. Whether you want heavy-duty protection or want grip without the bulk, these Galaxy S22 Ultra cases have you covered — literally.Ruggedly handsomePoetic SpartanWhile there are many heavy-duty kickstand cases for the Samsung Galaxy S22, few look as dignified as the Poetic Spartan, with leather-textured panels and deeper blue and green backplates to better match the S22 Ultra's colorways, but fiery red and neutral greys are also available.From $28 at AmazonSlim but sturdy[U] by UAG Lucent Designed for Samsung Galaxy S22 UltraWhile there are thinner clear cases around, you should opt for something with a decent drop-protection rating for the Ultra's larger size. The Lucent k...

No, this isn't anything like the Note 7.The Samsung Galaxy S22 or the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 — or maybe both — have a thermal issue.It's already being talked about on internet forums and message boards so you're going to hear about it eventually, and it's true. We know it's true because we've seen it with our own eyes and plenty of people who had early access to the phone have seen it too.The thing is, a lot of times the internet runs with something like this and a product gets a bad reputation it may not deserve. If you listen to and read about third-hand accounts from people who haven't actually experienced any issues you may form an opinion that's not the right one. That's what I'm trying to help with this article; I'm not trying to bash a product that I don't like or try to convince you to buy something different. I'm just trying to explain, in plain English, what might be going on so you have one more thing to ponder when you decide if the Galaxy S22 is the right phone for...

Just the right balance.Once again, Samsung's latest phone series debuted in three decidedly different varieties. The Galaxy S22 is the smallest flagship phone Samsung has produced in recent history, finally heeding the call of folks who have grown tired of smartphones' size creep over the years. The Galaxy S22+ is, essentially, just a larger version of the Galaxy S22 with little differences outside of its larger size, screen, and battery size.The Galaxy S22 Ultra then, would make sense as the pick of the litter, right? With four rear cameras, an S Pen docked inside, and all the trappings of a Galaxy Note, surely this is the best phone of the bunch.But you'd be wrong. At least, unless you really care about the S Pen or using that 100x space zoom feature.No, instead, I say save yourself $200 and buy the Galaxy S22+, one of the best Android smartphones. As you might find in real life, the middle child is the most well-balanced of the three. This includes better battery life and ...

Google serves up an early look at Android 13, and there's a lot to like.Google sure is keeping busy on the software side of things. The stable version of Android 12 launched under four months ago, Android 12L is coming soon with foldable and tablet-focused interface tweaks, and we're now getting a first look at Android 13.The Android 13 Developer Preview 1 doesn't have a lot to offer in terms of features or UI changes, but there are a few interesting points to talk about. But before we get started, there's the usual caveat that this is the first dev preview build, and while Google makes it relatively easy to install it on your Pixel, you shouldn't do so just yet — particularly on a daily driver.With that out of the way, let's get started. Google's switch to Material You proved to be divisive, and while I personally liked the quirky UI and interchangeable colors, the design aesthetic was a stark departure from earlier versions. Android 13 continues in the same vein, with brigh...

Packing heat with two new songs and more ways to play.What you need to knowPistol Whip is an action-rhythm first-person shooter for Quest 2, PlayStation VR, and VR on PC.The Encore update will add two new songs, a multiplayer Party Mode, and more improvements.The update will also bring more modifiers for the endless Styles system, which has been popular with players since its addition last year.Rhythmic action VR first-person shooter Pistol Whip is getting a big update with new scenes, a local multiplayer mode, and more modifiers for the Styles system.The Encore update for the Quest 2 and PlayStation VR title will add two more scenes, or levels, to the game for a total of 30 songs. The new scenes will each feature an end credits song from Pistol Whip's previous DLC campaigns: The Way Home by Magic Sword from the post-apocalyptic 2089 campaign and Fist Fight by by Devora from the western-themed Smoke & Thunder campaign.Players will be able hand off the VR headset and...

The earbuds could feature ANC and a low-latency mode for gaming.What you need to knowOnePlus could be developing a pair of Nord-branded true wireless earbuds.Alleged CAD-based renders of the upcoming earbuds have leaked online.They are expected to be launched sometime later this year. OnePlus is working on its first Nord-branded true wireless earbuds, according to reliable leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer and 91Mobiles. Similar to OnePlus' Nord series phones, the upcoming Nord TWS earbuds are expected to be packed with features and carry an affordable price tag. Going by CAD renders of the earbuds, they will look very different from OnePlus' existing true wireless earbuds, such as the Buds Pro and Buds Z2. The Nord TWS earbuds appear to have wide stems and a physical button with a gold coating. The earbuds' charging case features a boxy design with a prominent OnePlus logo on the top.However, these CAD renders are said to be based on live images of the final prototyping...

Samsung baked multitasking into One UI 4, and for the best multi-app experience, you'll want the Galaxy Tab S8+ that Goldilocks would call just right.After announcing the Galaxy Tab S8 series, Samsung had to temporarily pause preorders of the Tab S8 and S8 Ultra due to overwhelming demand, leaving the Tab S8 Plus as the only model available at the time. It made logical sense: the Ultra is the new iPad Pro-challenging workhorse that offers more than 8GB of RAM, while only the 11-inch model offers a reasonably affordable price and comfortable form factor. Compared to those, the Galaxy Tab S8 Plus defies easy categorization, too large for easy portability but not large enough to fit the mold of a productivity tablet.With the last generation of Samsung tablets, I recommended the Tab S7 over the S7+ despite the Plus' superior display for this very reason. Movability and weight mattered more than extra screen space, and arguably, neither device had good enough software in One UI 3.1 to...

You'll need a Spotify Premium subscription to use the device.What you need to knowSpotify's Car Thing can now be purchased in the U.S.The "smart player" has been priced at $90.It provides a personalized listening experience on vehicles that do not feature a built-in infotainment system. Back in April last year, Spotify announced its first hardware product, dubbed Car Thing. The company described the product as a smart player that brings a modern in-car entertainment experience to older cars.After being available only on an invite-only basis for six months, Spotify expanded the product's availability with a limited public release in October. The "Car Thing" is now finally available to the general public, but only in the U.S.Priced at $90, the device promises to deliver a "seamless and personalized in-car listening experience" regardless of the year or model of your vehicle. It connects to your smartphone and allows you to access all your favorite music and podcasts on th...

However, entry-level models will miss out on the ride.What you need to knowGoogle has quietly revealed the first batch of Chromebooks that will support Steam for Chrome OS.Chromebook models that are supported must have at least 7GB of RAM and be powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 chipset.The initial list consists mostly of Chromebooks manufactured by Acer and ASUS.Google has been hard at work adding Steam support to the best Chromebooks since its director of product management for Chrome OS revealed the plan in early 2020. It's been quite a long haul since then, but the search giant's focus on gaming for Chrome OS might finally take off soon.As spotted by 9to5Google, the company has revealed the initial list of Chromebooks that will support Steam for Chrome OS at launch. A code change on Chromium Gerrit lists the following Chromebook models.Volta – Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-1H)Volet – Acer Chromebook 515Voxel – Acer Chromebook Spin 713 (CP713-3W)Delbi...

The global iQOO 9 series also includes a Galaxy S21 FE rival.What you need to knowiQOO has announced the global launch of its flagship 9 and 9 Pro phones.Both phones are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and support 120W wired charging. The company has also introduced a new value-focused device called the iQOO 9 SE. Back in January, iQOO launched two new flagship phones in China: iQOO 9 and iQOO 9 Pro. Nearly two months later, the company has announced the global rollout of the iQOO 9 series.In addition to the standard iQOO 9 and 9 Pro, the global lineup includes a new value-focused model called the iQOO 9 SE. iQOO has also introduced a Legend Edition of the iQOO 9 and 9 Pro devices in partnership with BMW M Motorsport. The devices have a distinctive design with three iconic rally stripes on the back.The iQOO 9 Pro has a 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and claimed peak brightness of 1,500 nits. The phone is powered by the same Qualc...

AT&T is the first major carrier to shut down its 3G network.What you need to knowAT&T's 3G network shutdown commenced on February 22.The company first has previously published a list of phones that will continue to work following the shutdown.Anyone still using a 3G phone will need to upgrade to continue reliably using AT&T's network.It's been a long time coming, but the death of 3G has officially begun as AT&T shuts down its 3G network on Tuesday, February 22.AT&T is the first among U.S. wireless carriers to bid adieu to the aging network as it moves to repurpose the spectrum towards its 5G buildout. T-Mobile comes next after the company delayed its shutdown to March 31 at the behest of Dish Wireless. Verizon's 3G network will shut down on December 31.AT&T already released a list of smartphones that will still work after the shutdown in case you're curious, but there's a good that your phone is among them if you're currently reading this.Howev...

Glitches and a long waitlist might make it a difficult sell.What you need to knowDonald Trump's social media app has finally launched on iOS.Truth Social looks nearly identical to Twitter, which he was banned from in 2021.The app has already suffered a major outage, and new users are being waitlisted.Donald Trump has finally launched his long-awaited Truth Social app this week, and early reports don't paint too a pretty picture for the social media app, even if the reviews suggest differently.The app was created as a response to the former U.S. president being suspended from major social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. These platforms have been criticized by some for their moderation policies in the wake of political unrest amid the 2020 election and the misinformation around the COVID-19 pandemic.Meanwhile, Truth Social notably looks nearly identical to Twitter, from the profile designs to the "Truth Feed," with posts that feature buttons simila...

You won't get another chance for 400 years.What you need to knowToday is 2/22/22, which happens to fall on a Tuesday.Google marks the special moment with an easter egg on Search.An occasion like this won't happen for another 400 years.Today isn't just any regular old Tuesday; it's actually "Twosday," a day to mark the fact that February 22, 2022 (2/22/22) falls on a Tuesday.It's not a very common occurrence for this particular palindrome to fall on a Tuesday — in fact, the next time this will happen is in 400 years, as noted by USA Today.It's #Twosday! The deuces are wild today on one of the grandest palindromes of the year - 2/22/22. And it won't happen again for another 400 years. https://t.co/qIdsDv1wkS— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) February 22, 2022So to celebrate the occasion, Google Search has a special easter egg for anyone who searches the term "Twosday," "2/22/22," or other similar variations. If you migrate over to Google Search on your desktop or any of the ...

A cover screen app launcher, vertical app drawer, 3D wallpapers, and more.What you need to knowSamsung's Good Lock app has been updated for 2022 with support for all One UI 4 and One UI 4.1-powered phones.Good Lock adds several additional options and features to Samsung Galaxy phones and is free in the Galaxy Apps store.This latest update includes features for foldable phones and flat phones, alike.Among the many features Samsung's One UI offers, Good Lock is likely at the top of the list for anyone who might have used it. The oddly named app has been around for years, offering crucial features that are hard to live without once you've tried them. The latest update, Good Lock 2022, is upping the ante significantly for all of the best Samsung phones but, especially, for the Galaxy Z Flip 3.XDA Developers found a post on Samsung Korea's forums with a rather detailed changelog for the latest Good Lock update, which is rolling out now to Samsung phones everywhere. If you have...

Samsung has done it again as the Galaxy S22 lineup aims to take over the smartphone world over the next year. The company is back with three different models to choose from, and you'll need to pair it with the best accessories. As more and more people are getting back on the road, it's time to find the best Galaxy S22 car mounts available, regardless of which model you end up getting.Easily the bestiOttie Easy One Touch 5Staff PickiOttie has been making some of the best car mounts for years and the trend continues with the Easy One Touch 5. Just by pressing down on the side arms and placing your phone against the trigger button, the arms will close automatically. This provides a cradle that will perfectly fit the size of your Galaxy S22.$20 at Amazon$22 at Best Buy$20 at WalmartUse MagnetsWixGear Universal Stick On Mount (2-pack)Magnetic mounts are a lot more reliable than your traditional car mounts. Whenever you go over bumps in the road, you won't have ...

This is why competition is good.What you need to knowMore details have emerged of the Snapdragon Wear 5100.The alleged chipset may be built using a more efficient 4nm node with support for up to 4GB of RAM.The Snapdragon Wear 5100 will have an additional "Plus" variant with a low-power co-processor.It seems like Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear 4100 series is finally taking off as more wearable OEMs adopt the platform for their devices. However, a new report alleges details about Qualcomm's next chip, the Snapdragon Wear 5100, which could feature some notable improvements over its predecessor.According to WinFuture, the new chipset will be built using four ARM Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.7GHz, along with an Adreno 702 GPU clocked at 700MHz. So far, this is in line with what we've heard so far about the Snapdragon Wear 5100, which suggests it may not be much of an upgrade over the Snapdragon Wear 4100, which features the same configuration.However, WinFuture suggests that th...

New areas to explore and new machines to discover.One of the biggest, most beautiful games revealed during Sony's initial PS5 showcase, The Future of Gaming, was Horizon Forbidden West. This ambitious sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn was developed by Guerrilla Games, which uses the Decima engine and the newfound power of the PS5 to great lengths.The world of Horizon Forbidden West is one of mystery, and one of the highlights is the different machines that roam, fly, or swim through the world, with each machine filling a specific role. As Aloy travels into what was the Western U.S., she's going to discover plentiful machines, both new and returning forms. Here's the complete list of machines in Horizon Forbidden West that we know so far.Please note that machines not revealed before the game's launch are included in this list, as well as machines tied to some story reveals, so there will be some light spoilers aheadHorizon Forbidden West Machines:Machine ClassesBellowbacksBeh...

To properly protect your Oculus Quest when traveling or even at home, you'll need one of the best Oculus Quest cases. Most importantly, the Quest lenses need to be shielded from sunlight at all times or risk permanent damage to the interior screen (think of a magnifying glass burning an ant). Beyond that, something can easily fall into the headset and scratch the lens if you're not careful — and the Quest has a lot of small accessories that are hard to keep track of unless stored in the same place. So whether you want a compact travel case for your Quest and controllers or a larger storage case with space for all your VR peripherals, our list below will do the trick. Or, if you need the best Oculus Quest 2 cases, we've got you covered with that link.Organize and protectYinke Hard Case for Oculus QuestStaff PickThis Yinke Oculus Quest case comes with velcro straps for securing your cords in place, a small mesh bag for keeping your accessories organized, a lens cover, and...

Five games for Stadia Pro members and another free play weekend.What you need to knowStadia Pro subscribers can claim five games on March 1: Adam Wolfe, Darksiders Genesis, Darkwood, Dawn of the Monsters, and Race with Ryan Road Trip Deluxe Edition.Pro members can play Assassin's Creed Valhalla free this weekend only, and Chorus receives a free demo available for everyone. Skyclimbers is a multiplayer city-building RPG coming to Stadia in 2022.Google revealed today the Stadia Pro lineup of games to claim for March alongside a free demo, a free play weekend, and other game announcements for the streaming gaming platfrom.Stadia Pro members can claim another five games beginning on March 1 including narrative adventure game Adam Wolfe, top-down hack and slash game Darksiders Genesis, top-down survival horror game Darkwood, and Race with Ryan Road Trip Deluxe Edition. Co-op kaiju beat 'em up Dawn of the Monsters is a newer release and is launching for both Stadia and the sub...

Fortunately, this one doesn't seem widespread.What you need to knowSome Pixel 6 devices have faced Wi-Fi issues since the February update.Google says it will be fixed in the upcoming March update, which may also include the Pixel feature drop.Android 12L Beta 3 doesn't appear to be affected.The Google Pixel 6 series can't seem to catch a break when it comes to bugs, and lately, users have noted problems with Wi-Fi constantly disabling following the February update. However, it seems Google is aware, and a fix is coming soon.A Reddit post (via 9to5Google) shows a response from the official Google account, acknowledging the Wi-Fi problem and indicating when a fix will arrive: After some investigation, we identified the root cause and determined that it impacts a very small number of devices. Of course, we realize this is a poor experience and immediately developed a software fix that will be available in the next Google Pixel Update, rolling out in March.As Google me...

Premium featuresSamsung Galaxy Watch 4From $209 at AmazonProsGPS, HRM, NFCECG, SpO2, BIA sensorsOptional LTE connectivitySmooth performanceTwo size optionsConsMore expensiveNo iOS compatibilityIf you want every perk under the sun, you'll likely lean toward the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. In addition to advanced health and fitness tracking, you'll have optional LTE connectivity, ultra-smooth performance, and two size options. You also get the new Wear OS 3 platform.Affordable perksAmazfit GTS 3$160 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart rate & SpO2 monitoringActivity/sleep trackingAmazon Alexa built-inUp to 12 days of battery lifeConsNo built-in speakerNo NFC paymentsNo LTE connectivityIf you want as many perks as possible without breaking the bank, you might prefer the Amazfit GTS 3. It has most of the essentials that users need such as onboard GPS, activity/sleep tracking, heart-rate monitoring, and Amazon Alexa built-in. Plus, you'l...

A first-ever for the service as rumors of an overhaul heat up.What you need to knowShadow Warrior 3 is an upcoming hyper-violent first-person shooter developed by Flying Wild Hog and published by Devolver Digital.Shadow Warrior 3 is launching day one in PlayStation Now, making it the first game to ever launch into the service.Shadow Warrior 3 is launching on March 1, 2022. Shadow Warrior 3 is launching day one on PlayStation Now. This marks the first game, from first-party or third-party, to ever launch day one on Sony's game subscription service.PlayStation Now allows players to stream games across their PS5, PS4 or PC, allowing native downloads of PS4 games if you're playing on a PlayStation console. PlayStation Now is generally seen as having multiple drawbacks when compared to Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass. PlayStation Now doesn't allow access to PS5 versions of games, and until now, no games have launched day one into the service. PlayStation Blog reiterates that Shadow...

On one hand, it's great that Samsung finally upgraded the charging speeds in the Galaxy S22 lineup. But the truth is that wired charging can be a pain, making it important to find the best Galaxy S22 wireless chargers. Ditch the wires and keep your fancy, new phone charged up.Charge 'em bothSamsung 15W Wireless Charger DuoWhen it comes to ultra compatibility with Samsung phones, it doesn't get better than the new Wireless Charger Duo. Samsung redesigned a few of its wireless chargers and launched them alongside the Galaxy S22 series. The Charger Duo sports a built-in cooling system, and allows you to charge both your phone and Watch at the same time.$90 at Amazon$70 at Samsung (w/ cable only)$90 at Samsung (w/ wall adapter)Ole' reliableAnker 10W Qi Wireless ChargerIf you want a wireless charger that just gets the job done and looks good in the process, this Anker 10W Wireless Charger fits the bill. There's an LED ring on the bottom, letting you know when you...

Google is developing a new way to let you add notes to your passwords.What you need to knowGoogle is working on a new way to allow you to insert additional notes to your saved passwords in Chrome.The upcoming feature has been spotted in the latest version of Chrome Canary.Another capability that lets you save passwords manually in the browser is in the works.Google's Password Manager is one of the best password managers for Android around, but it is not without shortcomings. For example, it doesn't currently let you add notes to your saved passwords unlike Dashlane, but this is about to change.According to a Reddit user going by the handle u/Leopeva64-2, Google is working on a new capability that will allow Chrome users to add any useful notes to their saved passwords. The new feature is apparently available on Chrome Canary version 101.Assuming it goes live for everyone, the new option can be accessed by opening the "Edit password" section. The "Note" field sits right ...

Verizon Galaxy S21 series phones could be the first to receive the update in the U.S.What you need to knowThe One UI 4.1 update could begin rolling out to Galaxy S21 series devices within the next few days.Initially, the rollout will apparently be limited to the Galaxy S21 Ultra. Owners of Galaxy S21 and S21+ models might have to wait a little longer to get the update. Samsung may soon bring some features from its latest Galaxy S22 phones to last year's Galaxy S21 series. A tipster has told the folks at Piunikaweb that Samsung is preparing to push the One UI 4.1 update to its 2021 flagships as soon as next week.The information, which allegedly comes from a Verizon support representative, suggests the rollout is slated to begin between the end of this month and the beginning of March.However, it looks like the Galaxy S21 Ultra will be the only phone to get the update by the first week of March. There's currently no word on when the One UI 4.1 update will reach the Galaxy...

This week, our intrepid hosts gush over Horizon Forbidden West. They also tackle the issue of games preservation in light of Nintendo's announcement that the Wii U and 3DS eShops will be shutting down in March 2023. There's a big patch for Cyberpunk 2077, and Netflix is developing a BioShock movie.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Horizon Forbidden West for PS5 review: The pinnacle of excellence | Android CentralWii U and Nintendo 3DS online eShop purchases ending in March 2023 | iMoreCyberpunk 2077 Xbox Series X|S, PS5 upgrade and patch 1.5 now available | Windows CentralCyberpunk 2077's big Xbox Series X|S patch is here ... but is it good enough? | Windows CentralBioShock movie in development with Netflix | Windows Central...

Getting a second-hand phone doesn't have to be overly complicated or stressful.Over the last few years, the cost of smartphones has skyrocketed. As a result, it's no longer uncommon to see phones being sold for $1,000 or more, making the decision to buy a new handset quite the investment. Thanks to the ever-growing used smartphone market, though, it's rather easy to take the sting out of those increasing prices.The used phone marketplace is a great way to save some cash on your next phone purchase, especially if you know where to buy used phones. Also, if you have old devices lying around that you aren't using anymore, selling them allows others to use them while simultaneously putting extra money in your pocket — making it that much easier to get your hands on one of the best Android phones for yourself.Things to consider before you buy a used phoneWe've already talked about how to sell or trade-in your Android phone to get the most money, and you can keep all of thos...

The dark gray shade stays in place, but the new pitch-black theme sits alongside it.What you need to knowGoogle is experimenting with a pitch-black dark theme for Search on the desktop web.The darker shade shows up for the search results page, while Google's homepage retains the dark gray color.The test is available only to a small group of users for the time being.Google Search finally rolled out support for dark mode on the web in September of last year after several months of testing. While it isn't the pitch-black theme that some would have preferred, the feature was still a welcome addition, reducing eye strain and saving battery life.Now, the search giant may be planning an even deeper shade of dark theme for Search on the desktop web. According to 9to5Google, the company is testing a pitch-black dark mode with a small set of users.As you can see in the screenshot above, the new theme appears completely black in comparison to the dark gray shade that is currentl...

Tracfone is one of the first carriers that comes to mind when it comes to prepaid plans and support for the best Android phones. Tracfone's plans trend towards the lower end with data amounts up to 8GB but thanks to its choice of SIM cards on the three major networks, just about any phone is compatible so there's no limit to what you can bring. When it comes down to it, the best phone to use with Tracfone is the Galaxy S22 Plus from Samsung thanks to its excellent network support, long-term android update support, and fantastic hardware. Still, there are tons of options for every budget if you don't want to spend that much on a phone.Best overall: Samsung Galaxy S22 PlusThe Galaxy S22 Plus is the most expensive phone on this list and while it won't fit into everyone's budgets, it is one of the best Android phones you can buy and it works great on Tracfone's network. If you get it unlocked, you can also take it with you to any other carrier if you find a better wireless plan dow...

A white headset to match Sony's white console.What you need to knowSony shared official image of the PS VR2 headset's design, as well as the finalized design for the Sense controllers.Sony previously shared a closer look at the Sense VR controllers, as well as providing details about the hardware and technology.No release date or price for PS VR2 have been announced yet. Sony shared the official design for the PS VR2 headset on Tuesday, finally giving us a closer look at the headset that PlayStation players will be using in the future.The PS VR2 is white, matching the design and color scheme of the PS5. The Sense controllers have also been refined, with a matching white color pattern. These controllers use the DualSense haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, making them a huge leap forward over the Move controllers used with the original PSVR.As detailed on PlayStation Blog, this headset is designed with users in mind, including a new vent design."Our engineers came u...

The Black Shark 4 Pro is a gaming wolf in corporate sheep's clothing.Xiaomi's gaming sub-brand Black Shark has put out a slew of fantastic gaming phones in the past. Adopting the parent company's eye view, Black Shark phones usually bundle heavy-duty gear with lower mid-range price tags. The Black Shark 4 Pro is a beefed-up version of the regular Black Shark 4, bumping up the key specs of its mega affordable sibling.The gaming-focused phone sets an interesting premise, putting forward features like a 144Hz refresh rate on an AMOLED panel, 120W HyperCharge, and a 720Hz touch sampling rate. It all sounds wonderful on paper, but as we all know too well, hardware doesn't always equal awesomeness.It takes just the right mix of ingredients to create a delectable Android phone that hits the nail right on the head. I spent about two weeks with the enticing Black Shark 4 Pro, using it as my primary device every day. Based on my experience, here's what I think of this gaming phone.Bl...

The latest OnePlus flagship is a lot less durable than its predecessor.What you need to knowThe OnePlus 10 Pro failed to survive JerryRigEverything's durability test.It snapped in half during the bend test. OnePlus devices have usually performed well during the YouTuber's durability tests. The OnePlus 10 Pro, which made its debut in China in January, is a decent upgrade over its predecessor — at least on paper. Ahead of the phone's global launch, a durability test from JerryRigEverything has revealed a serious problem.Unlike last year's OnePlus 9 Pro, which came out strong in Zack Nelson's durability test, the OnePlus 10 Pro snapped in half while the YouTuber tried to check its structural integrity. As you can see at the 6:57 mark in the video below, the back glass of the latest OnePlus flagship began to crack as soon as Nelson applied some force on the middle. The majority of the cracks appeared right below the OnePlus 10 Pro's rear camera bump. Once more force was app...

It will be available to purchase from March 10 starting at $629.What you need to knowNubia has announced the global launch of the RedMagic 7 a few days after its Chinese debut.The gaming phone comes with up to 18GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, with 6GB expandable virtual RAM.It will be available in Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and and Latin America.Nubia's RedMagic 6 Pro is currently one of the best gaming phones you can buy right now, but the company upped the ante with the unveiling of the RedMagic 7 series in China last week. Today, Nubia announced the global launch of the vanilla RedMagic 7 with specs and features that highlight the firm's efforts to dominate the gaming smartphone segment.The RedMagic 7 will be up for grabs from March 10 in various territories, including Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and and Latin America. It comes in three models: Obsidian Black, Pulsar and Supernova. The Obsidian variant starts at $629, P...