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Updated 2024-11-28 19:45
Send your Android's screen on timeout to save battery. Here's how!
Keeping your phone's screen unlocked 24/7 is unsafe, and it consumes a fair amount of battery life. You can change the timeout length on your Android phone to put it to sleep automatically after a set amount of inactive time. This way, you can keep prying eyes off your private data and make your phone last a little longer. Let's get to it!How to change your screen timeout length on an Android phoneThe screen timeout settings on almost every Android phone can be found under the display settings. This includes older versions such as Android 9 and 10, the current Android 11, and the latest Android 12, which is still in beta.Open Settings on your Android phone.Look for Display and tap it.Tap Screen timeout and choose your desired length.There are plenty of preset options for you to choose from in the screen timeout settings. The time lengths range from 5 seconds all the way up to 30 minutes. You can choose an amount of time that matches your average usage. We recommend eith...
How to watch Dave season 2 from anywhere
After proving himself to Charlamagne tha God on The Breakfast Club at the end of last season, Lil Dicky is back with brand-new episodes of his comedy series on FX and we have all the details on how you can watch Dave on TV or online.David Burd is an American rapper who goes by the stage name Lil Dicky that first rose to fame on YouTube after releasing a music video for his song 'Ex-Boyfriend'. He's had several hit songs since including 'Pillow Talking', 'Molly' and of course, '$ave Dat Money". In 2017 though, Lil Dicky revealed that he was interested in having his own TV show in an interview with Inverse and just three years later, Dave premiered on FX.Dave is a half-hour long live-action comedy series that tells a fictionalized version of Lil Dicky's rise to fame as a rapper living in Los Angeles. During the first season of the show, viewers saw Dave kickstart his rap career by withdrawing his Bar Mitzvah money to shoot a music video that ended up going viral. He then went to Ph...
The Motorola RAZR might take a gap year to figure itself out
Motorola might skip a Razr launch this year to work on its glow-up for next year.What you need to knowRumors suggest that there won't be a new Motorola Razr this year.The company will reportedly work on refining its foldable design and may instead launch a new device in 2022.The Motorola Razr 5G was an iterative upgrade from the original, but the next foldable could be a more substantial upgrade.Motorola may skip launching a new Razr this year, according to a new report from DSCC. The company reportedly wants to spend more time refining its foldable design before the next release.Amid reports that other companies like Honor are gearing up to release foldable smartphones this year, Motorola apparently won't be among them. The report states that a new Motorola Razr "isn't expected until the second half of 2022 as they look to re-invent their foldable design."Given the short release period between the first two models, which was less than roughly seven months, it might mak...
Google just brought back emoji blobs in the most magical way
The Gboard update is rolling out for users on the beta.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out a new update for Gboard with contextual Emoji Kitchen suggestions.The new suggestions will include Google's previous blob emoji design that was retired years ago.The Emoji Kitchen update is rolling out on Gboard beta and will arrive for more users this summer.Google's latest update to Gboard introduced a new feature to the Emoji Kitchen, making it easier for users to pick relevant emojis based on the messages they type. As pointed out by 9to5Google, the update also appears to include Google's long-retired emoji blobs, which can be mixed and matched with other supported emoji.The return of the blob was teased in the Android feature bundle, which is arriving on all the best Android phones. Google hid the feature in plain sight, using a gif to show off the Emoji Kitchen update in action with a blob holding a magic wand, hinting at how to access the beloved emoji.It appears t...
UK regulators think Google and Apple could have too much power
Big Tech companies have been placed under increased scrutiny over the last year, this is the latest effort.What you need to knowThe UK's Competition and Markets Authority is investigating Google and Apple over potential anticompetitive behavior.The body will look into whether both companies and their effective duopoly are reducing innovation in tech.It will also investigate the power both wield over developers. The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating the duopoly of Google and Apple and the effects on the mobile tech market. Between Android and iOS, the Play Store and the App Store, Chrome and Safari, both companies wield control over a large swathe of tech in the UK and other markets. While this control may be organic as platforms ranging from Windows Phone to BlackBerry 10 crumbled in the past from lack of developer support, the effect remains that both companies do wield incredible power, and developers are unhappy about it.In an announcement t...
These are the best USB microphones for your laptop or Chromebook
When choosing between the best USB microphones for Chromebooks — or really for any laptop — you want something that will plug and play, no drivers are required. Many of the best Chromebooks you can buy today are more capable and have better support than in the past, but the path of least resistance is to find a mic that handles audio processing on its own, without relying on ChromeOS or your CPU. Thankfully there are several USB mics that let you record on the most lightweight of laptops.Like a proBlue YetiStaff pickThe Yeti is the most popular model in the Blue Microphones lineup, and works smoothly with a Chromebook, courtesy of its plug-and-play functionality that won't require installing drivers. With four different pattern settings and a built-in headphone jack, plus the ability to connect to a broadcast boom mic, this is a solid place to start.$110 at Amazon$110 at Best Buy$110 at WalmartThe slimmer typeBlue Yeti NanoThe Yeti Nano sheds a fair bi...
You want online privacy. Avast Secure Browser is the answer.
With so many options for web browsers, each offering its own version of "private browsing", picking the right one can be a real challenge. However, what most of them call "private browsing" isn't actually all that private. Moreover, the majority of browsers require downloading countless other pieces of software, such as extensions or add-ons, to fully protect you, leaving you stuck doing even more research to find the right programs to protect your privacy and security.Avast Secure Browser is the solution that offers everything you need for a secure and private web browsing experience.Smart Browsing: What is it and why is it so important?When the internet was first imagined, no one could have guessed just how massive it would become, nor how dangerous. We dreamed of connecting people to share information and collaborate on new ideas. Instead, we have a wealth of personal data that is poorly protected by a disjointed series of patches against increasing breaches, exploits, and c...
Ditch the wires with these Qi car chargers
For drivers with long daily commutes, the best wireless car chargers are an excellent investment. Beyond the fact that plugging and unplugging your phone can be a pain, most car chargers come with a mount or phone holder that places your phone closer to eye level, so you're not glancing down when your gaze should be on the road. Qi wireless chargers have already started creeping into our offices and homes. If you're using a Qi-enabled phone, you should absolutely grab one of these chargers and go wire-free in the car too.Most dependableiOttie Easy One Touch Wireless Qi Fast Charge Car Mount KitStaff PickiOttie makes the most popular mounts on the market, and the most reliable of the Qi mounts around that's compatible with fast Qi charging Samsung and Apple phones. There are certainly flashier mount styles or more cutting-edge mechanical mounts, but the iOttie's old-school, spring-loaded clamps get the job done and usually last a while.$40 at AmazonBYOCAnker PowerWave ...
Want to remove payment information from your PS5? Here's how.
Regardless of how much you love your PS5, sometimes you don't want your payment information stored away. If you are security conscious, no longer use a particular account, or simply don't wish to use the digital store, you may want to delete your payment information. Although relatively straightforward, the process is hidden behind a few menus and can be difficult to find. Let's explore this now, with our guide on how to remove payment information from your PS5.Some added securityIf you're a bit wary of storing card information for security reasons, keep this in mind before removing your card info. Many people are wary of their information being stored on their console, not only in the form of payment methods, but also security and two-factor authentication.Your cell phone is used to enable two-factor authentication, but you're not willing to add a phone number on your PS5 system; there are other options. You can use an authenticator app in tandem with QR codes as a user-friend...
Get some extra screen and be more productive with these Chromebook monitors
Chrome OS already makes using desktop peripherals dead simple, and we've rounded up the best Chromebook external monitors for any situation. Chromebooks are perfect on-the-go computers for a lot of people, but sometimes you just want to sit down, relax, and do your thing with a big display. That's why almost every laptop, regardless of what software is running on it, has some sort of port to send video out to an external display. Our top recommendation is the incredible 4K LG 24UD58, but we've also rounded up other great options with lower resolutions and price points that will match up perfectly with one of the best Chromebooks.Best overall: LG 24UD58-B 4K UHDThe LG 24UD58 may not look as pretty as other options, but LG has gone out of its way to give users a great experience. This monitor sports a 4K UHD resolution, which is excellent for those who want to get work done and let off steam with a game. Chromebooks aren't the best for gaming, but if you want to use your monitor ...
France vs Germany live stream: How to watch the Euro 2020 game online
Euro 2020 'Group of Death' sees its first clash of the titans as France take on Germany in Munich. Don't miss a moment of the action with our France vs Germany live stream guide.It's imperative for both sides to get off to a winning start in this tough Group F encounter which sees two of the strongest footballing nations in the world go toe-to-toe.France are the current World Cup holders and are hotly-tipped to go all the way in this year's European Championship after losing out in 2016's final against Portugal.Germany's last silverware came at the 2014 World Cup and were defeated by France in the last iteration of the Euros at the semi-final stage. However, at the 2018 World Cup Die Mannschaft crashed out at the group stage after picking up only three points.It's advantage France if you look at the recent head-to-head record. These two fierce rivals have met only three times since that Euro 2016 semi-final with two draws and one win for Les Bleus. You'd have to go back to th...
Looking for an ASUS phone in 2021? These are your best choices!
While ASUS doesn't produce many different smartphone models, there are still some great choices on offer. The Zenfone 7 Pro is one of the best Android phones for taking selfies thanks to its unique rotating camera, and you also get a clean software interface. But if you're a big mobile gamer, you might also want to take a look at the ridiculously powerful new ROG Phone 5. Or scale back to the more pocketable Zenfone 8 for higher specs in a smaller package.Still the best selfie shooterASUS Zenfone 7 ProStaff PickThe Zenfone 7 Pro is one of the most interesting phones of the past year because of its unique rotating camera module. The motorized camera module lets you use the 64MP or 12MP wide-angle rear cameras to take selfies. The internal hardware is stellar, and you get a 5000mAh battery and bloat-free software, recently updated to Android 11.$791 at AmazonSmall but mightyASUS Zenfone 8ASUS takes a different approach with its compact flagship for 2021, packing a S...
Honor reportedly plans to launch a foldable to challenge Samsung
An Honor foldable might be on the table as the company reconciles with Google and Qualcomm.What you need to knowHonor is reportedly launching its first foldable phone in 2021.The former Huawei subsidiary had already hinted that this would be in the works, announcing that it would be targeting a 2020 launch — though the pandemic likely delayed that.The foldable is said to be planned under the Magic brand, the company's experimental line.Honor is getting ready to make its own foldable, according to a new report from Display Supply Chain Consultants, or DSCC (via XDA Developers). The new phone will reportedly be called the Honor Magic Fold, an upcoming device aimed at some of the best foldable phones from the likes of Samsung and Huawei, but at a more Honor-like (read: cheaper) cost.We don't know much else about this foldable from the report. Honor is said to be sourcing panels from BOE and Visionix, and it'll likely be looking to use the Snapdragon 888 or something just a...
The Moto G Stylus 5G has arrived which means its time to find a case
When Motorola introduced the Moto G Stylus (2020), it marked one of a few devices to sport an stylus. Then, the company released a slightly-upgraded version in the Moto G Stylus (2021) before launching another version with 5G connectivity. The Moto G Stylus 5G has the potential to be one of the best cheap Android phones, as it's one of only a handful of options that includes a built-in stylus. With a device that has such a reputation, it only makes sense that you would want to keep it protected. And for that, we've rounded up the best Moto G Stylus 5G cases to keep it looking good for years to come.From the sourceMotorola Protective CaseStaff PickSometimes there's nothing better than getting a case from the same company that made your new phone. It's why our favorite Moto G Stylus 5G case is the Protective Case from Motorola. The case offers up to 6 feet of drop protection, while sporting a diamond texture on the back for some added grip.$15 at AmazonProtecting it...
New leak reveals first details about Xiaomi's upcoming flagship foldable
The upcoming foldable may not look very different from the Mi Mix Fold.What you need to knowA new leak has shed some light on the key specs of Xiaomi's next foldable phone.It is tipped to come with a Snapdragon 888 chipset, a 120Hz display, and a 108MP main camera. The phone could be unveiled sometime in the fourth quarter of the year. Xiaomi, which launched its first foldable phone in March, is expected to release a new foldable later this year to take on Samsung. Alleged specs of the upcoming device have now surfaced, courtesy of tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo.As per the tipster, Xiaomi's second foldable phone will not be a massive upgrade over the Mi Mix Fold. It will have a similar inward-folding design and use Qualcomm's flagship Snapdragon 888 chipset. In the camera department, the phone will come equipped with a 108MP main camera.While the key specs of the device will be similar to the Mi Mix Fold, it will bring a few significant improvements as well. The ...
Should you get the Amazon Echo Show 5 or Echo Dot (4th Gen)?
Adorably smartAmazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) Kids$55 at AmazonProsAffordableCute animal-themed designsComes with Amazon Kids+ subscriptionHas 3.5mm port for connecting external speakersConsNo screenWon't get as much out of Amazon Kids+As a kid-friendly alternative to a Bluetooth speaker, kids have the advantage of not just playing music but also conversing with Alexa to set alarms, get help with homework, and even hear bedtime stories. It's a great companion for little ones and the designs might even appeal to some grown-ups, too.Visual appealAmazon Echo Show 5 Kids$95 at AmazonProsAffordableBright, cool color optionComes with Amazon Kids+ subscriptionStand and light bundle optionsConsOnly 2MP cameraNot very big screen for displaying photosMore expensiveNo 3.5mm portThe Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids is a great option for older kids or those who prefer a visual, tactile experience in addition to Alexa voice control. You get a 5.5-inch scr...
The PlayStation version of Cyberpunk 2077 has returned to the PS Store
A glimmer of hope for the PlayStation version of Cyberpunk 2077.What you need to knowCyberpunk 2077 seems to have returned to the PlayStation Store.The game was originally removed from the store back in December.The console versions of Cyberpunk 2077 were widely panned by fans.After a tumultuous launch and its removal from the PlayStation Store back in December, Cyberpunk 2077 seems to have returned to the PlayStation.Currently, you can search up the game's name and find it in the PlayStation Store under the tag Just announced. If you don't already own the game, it can simply be wishlisted or followed in the same way as regular upcoming games, but if you own the digital version, it can be redownloaded directly from the store, and the game is updated to its latest 1.22 version.We've contacted Sony for comment.Cyberpunk 2077 was unceremoniously removed from the PlayStation Store back on December 17th and there's been no news of its return since. CD Projekt Red releas...
Can an external temperature sensor improve Google's newest Nest Thermostat?
Best answer: No. As feature-laden as the Nest Thermostat is, it's not compatible with the Nest Temperature Sensor. If you want to use the sensor, you must have either a 3rd generation Nest Learning Thermostat or a Nest Thermostat E. Each of these thermostats can be paired with up to six temperature sensors.Google Nest Thermostat: Plenty of features, but still an entry-level deviceLaunched in October last year, Google's Nest Thermostat is arguably one of the best smart home gadgets available in the market right now. The smart thermostat sports a sleek and modern design, complete with a mirror-finished front panel and convenient side-mounted touch controls. You also get goodies like customizable heating/cooling schedules, easy control via the Google Home app, as well as the ability to monitor your home's HVAC system and, if needed, send maintenance alerts, all at an affordable price.However, being an entry-level model, the Nest Thermostat lacks features that its pricier siblings ...
The OnePlus Nord N200 5G arrives in the US later this month for just $240
OnePlus upgrades the new Nord N200 with 5G and a few other goodies.What you need to knowOnePlus announces the new Nord N200 5G, its cheapest 5G smartphone yet.The Nord N200 5G features an upgraded Qualcomm chip and a higher resolution 90Hz display.The device will retail for $240 and go on sale on June 25 with T-Mobile as the exclusive U.S. carrier.After OnePlus CEO Pete Lau teased the OnePlus Nord N200 5G last in May, the company has finally announced the full details of the affordable smartphone. Lau states that the latest device "offers an optimum burdenless mobile experience at an even more accessible price point."The OnePlus Nord N200 5G builds on the offering of its predecessor with a sleeker, more refined design and a couple of notable upgrades that should improve the overall experience. The most obvious upgrade is the addition of 5G connectivity, which was missing from the OnePlus Nord N100. This is available thanks to the newer Qualcomm Snapdragon 480, the chipmak...
Review: Genshin Impact is a game every Android user should play
An ever-growing universe that you'll instantly fall in love with.Genshin Impact was an instant hit when it released in September 2020 and has since become ever more popular. With consistent updates adding seasonal events and new content, developer miHoYo struck gold, creating an evolving universe that allows players to jump in at any point and get in on the action.While it's available on consoles and PC, it can also be played on mobile devices. It's one of the best Android games you can get today, and it's entirely free-to-play (aside from some optional microtransactions you can buy into with the title's gacha system).Journeying through the fantasy world has its downsides, though. As fun as Genshin Impact can be, there are a few things you'll want to know about the Android version before you download it.Genshin Impact review:What's goodWhat's not goodShould you play?Genshin Impact ...
PlayStation's move into mobile gaming has been a long time coming
Diversifying its assets between console and mobile is a smart move.Sony keeps a notoriously tight lock on the PlayStation ecosystem and has since its inception over two decades ago. In recent years, it's loosened this hold somewhat — starting to release exclusive games on PC and sort of but not really openly supporting cross-play — and now the company plans to expand into the mobile gaming market. This isn't about favoring mobile over consoles or vice versa, but it will be used as a way to diversify its assets.Jim Ryan confirmed the company's plans to invest more heavily in mobile games during a company strategy meeting ahead of its recent investor relations day. Mobile is just one of the areas we are exploring to reach millions of gamers beyond our platforms. PlayStation has a huge catalog of diverse first-party IP that can transition to smartphone gaming and complement our AAA games or live service games. We are exploring the mobile market with some wonderful PlayStatio...
Do the Google Pixel Buds A-Series have active noise cancelation?
Best answer: No, the Pixel Buds A-Series do not feature noise cancelation. Instead, you'll have to rely on Google's Adaptive Sound if you want to try and cancel noise out around you.Where's the noise cancelation?The Google Pixel Buds (2020) were a fantastic improvement over the original Pixel Buds. Google ditched the wires, provided fast pair support, and the budge come in a sleek case. We were hoping that the next iteration of Pixel Buds would include active noise cancelation as it's already a staple in the best wireless earbuds, and even in some of the best wireless cheap earbuds. Unfortunately, Google is side-stepping any type of noise cancelation with the Pixel Buds A-Series. You'll be left to rely on the Adaptive Sound support when it comes to drowning out any of the noises and sounds that are around you.This comes as little surprise given that the Pixel Buds are priced at just $99. Google already cut out a bunch of useful features to try and bring the price down, includin...
Pick a phone for Prime Day 2021
Prime Day is the prime time to buy a great new Android phone.Amazon Prime Day is fast approaching, and we're expecting to see a bunch of great Android phone deals. Not only is Prime Day a fantastic time to save a few bucks on last year's flagships like the OnePlus 8 Pro or the Google Pixel 4XL, but it can also be a chance to snag one of the latest premium devices for much less than they typically retail for.We know that you've worked hard over the past year and that if you're in the market for a new smartphone like the Samsung Galaxy S21, you've probably been waiting for the right moment and the right deal. Are you going to be searching for the best bargain overall, or do you have a specific device in mind that you're targeting? Will you be replacing your main phone or purchasing one as a gift for a child, parent, or partner? Have you ever considered getting one of the best cheap phones as an emergency backup?Share your thoughts with us through the poll below, and be sure to le...
Review: The Amazon Halo fitness band gets a little too close for comfort
Just how much do you want to know about yourself?In late 2020, Amazon surprised us all with an intriguing product drop in the form of the Amazon Halo band, a holistic fitness wearable that has some fairly ambitious capabilities hidden in a pretty non-descript, understated wrist strap.Like every other fitness tracker on the market today, the Amazon Halo has sensors and software to track your steps, heart rate, and sleep, and it can even analyze your overall activity levels. There is a Halo subscription plan that provides access to guided workouts, training plans, and enhanced health metrics similar to what Fitbit Premium offers. It is $3.99/month, but the device comes with a free six-month trial, just like Fitbit's latest wearables.What's more interesting about the Halo are its voice tone and body composition analysis capabilities. Amazon touts how secure this personal data is on its platform, but you will likely either be fascinated by these new features or be terrified by them...
Samsung's Galaxy S21+ successor will have a plastic back, says new rumor
The Galaxy S22 Ultra could be Samsung's only 'premium' Galaxy S series phone for 2022.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy S22 and S22 Plus phones will reportedly feature plastic backs.The company is said to be working on an improved version of its "glasstic" material for the next-gen flagships. Besides a polycarbonate build, the two phones are also expected to feature slightly smaller displays than their predecessors. A new rumor suggests the Galaxy S22 Ultra will be the only Galaxy S22 series phone to feature a glass back. The standard Galaxy S22 and the Galaxy S22 Plus models could come with "glass-like" plastic backs, similar to the glasstic build that we find on Samsung's best cheap Android phones.Currently, the standard Galaxy S21 is Samsung's only 2021 flagship to feature a polycarbonate build. Both the Galaxy S21 Plus and Galaxy S21 Ultra come with more premium glass backs.Samsung is also said to be planning to make its next-gen flagships slightly more compact ...
These Huawei devices will be upgraded to HarmonyOS
Huawei is finally making the big leap over to HarmonyOS.Huawei has finally introduced its Android replacement officially with HarmonyOS 2.0. The company will be updating its most recent phones from Android later in the year as it attempts to regain lost ground after being placed on the U.S. entity list.Huawei is positioning HarmonyOS as a better operating system than Android, and there's a good reason for that. While it remains based on the Android Open Source Project (on phones and tablets at least), Huawei being decoupled from Google leaves the company free to make all the modifications to Android it wants. Huawei touts its speed, battery, and overall performance improvements over its EMUI-based devices, and it'll be curious to see if these benefits will translate to tangible improvements for regular users over the best regular Android phones.Alongside its announcement, Huawei has shared a list of all phones which will be updated to HarmonyOS — and it's pretty extensive. Ev...
Early Prime Day VPN deal offers up to 30% off NordVPN subscriptions
Snagging a great VPN deal might not have been top of your list when you were considering your Prime Day purchases, but you can actually use the sale to save on privacy and security. In fact, you don't even have to wait until Prime Day's official kick-off to score a saving with NordVPN already offering as much as 30% off its available at Amazon.Over there, NordVPN is offering its annual subscription for just $49.99, a $20 discount, and its 18-month plan for $69.99, a $30 discount. Thanks to those savings, you'll be paying as little as $4 per month.Often, going for a shorter-term VPN plan means you pay more per month, though with these Amazon deals you're paying a similar monthly price to that of NordVPN's two-year plan at its own site. That means you don't have to commit as much cash upfront and lock yourself into one VPN provider.That being said, NordPVN is one of the best VPN services out there and you may find that you want to continue using it after your discounted period is...
Switching to Ultra Mobile? Make sure your phone can keep up.
The best phones for Ultra Mobile will have great support for the T-Mobile network and, of course, great performance using Android. Ultra Mobile fully supports 5G and to get the most out of it, you'll need a phone that supports bands n71 and n41. All of these phones will also work out of the box with Ultra Mobile, and with the Ultra Mobile SIM, you should be good to go with very little effort. The Google Pixel 4a 5G has everything you need to make the most of your Ultra Mobile plan with great support for T-Mobile's 5G network, great software, and plenty of battery life to make the most of it.Best overall: Google Pixel 4a 5GThe Google Pixel 4a is still one of our favorite Android phones thanks to its compact size, great software updates, and great camera performance. The Google Pixel 4a 5G is a bit bigger with a 6.2-inch display, a larger 3,885mAh battery, and even a second camera on the back. Google makes the most of the Snapdragon 765G chipset and this phone manages to feel ver...
Here are the best webcam deals for Prime Day 2021
With more of us working from home than ever before, having a dependable webcam is now nearly essential. Luckily, Prime Day is almost here and bringing tons of webcam deals along with it. To help you with the search, we're compiling a roundup of the best Prime Day deals on webcams to upgrade the sorry shooters on your laptops and help you look as good to others as you do in person.Best Webcam Deals Available Now$30 and under$31 - $50$50+Which to buy?Best Webcam Deals $30 and underYou don't have to spend a ton of money to find an excellent webcam these days. Even when it's not Prime Day, there are some really affordable options that offer features like 1080p HD video and stereo audio. But of course, when it is Prime Day, these picks drop even lower in price, creating some pretty spectacular offers.There may not be any Prime Day deals live just yet, but if you can't wait for Amazon's big event, there are a handful of great offers already available you might be intereste...
Prime Day 2021: official dates, early deals you can buy right now, and more
Amazon's annual exclusive sale is coming back for an even bigger event sooner than usual in 2021. Prime Day is the sale every Amazon Prime member should be looking forward to. With hundreds of ways to save and hundreds of dollars off popular products, shopping during Prime Day is even a smart way to earn back the cost of Amazon Prime's membership fee.During past Prime Day sales, Amazon hasn't skimped on its offerings in the slightest. We've seen products in just about every category go on sale, from home and kitchen appliances to clothing, furniture, toys, electronics, computers, and of course, just about every Amazon device there is. You name it, there's probably been a Prime Day sale on it. And if the sales of previous years are to be any indication, Prime Day 2021 is already slated to be one of the best shopping events of the year.Best Prime Day deals & sales in 2021As it stands, Amazon has not officially announced all of its early Prime Day deals, but that won't stop ot...
Here's what you need to know about the Galaxy Z Flip 2
Don't flip out, but there's a new Z Flip on the way.2019 was the breakout year for folding phones, with devices like the Galaxy Fold and Huawei Mate X coming to market. But these were insanely expensive luxury items that only rich Android nerds would ever buy. Arguably, it was the 2020 Galaxy Z Flip that first solved the foldable formula — it cost considerably less than the Fold and was more widely available at carriers.It was later followed by a 5G version with an upgraded processor, but since then we've heard very little about the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 2. Instead, we got the Galaxy Z Fold 2, another opulent foldable that genuinely blew us away with its upgraded hinge, superpowered specs, and (unfortunately) budget-destroying price.Samsung has some major plans brewing for its 2021 Galaxy devices, including (allegedly) a Galaxy Z Fold 3, but this foldable will probably be just as absurdly pricey as its predecessors. For a new foldable phone that regular folks can afford but t...
YouTube TV is giving away free a TiVo Stream 4K to annoy Roku
This one is kind of a head-scratcherWhat you need to knowYouTube TV is sending out free TiVo Stream 4K devices to select subscribers.This giveaway is likely due to the ongoing dispute between YouTube TV and Roku.It's unknown as to whether every YouTube TV subscriber will get this or if it will only be select subscribers.If you're a current Roku user and are tired of the ongoing shenanigans surrounding the YouTube TV app, you're in luck. 9to5Google has found that YouTube TV is giving some of its subscribers a free TiVo Stream 4K streaming device. In the email, YouTube TV says the following: To ensure our loyal YouTube TV members have a great watch experience (including the ability to watch 4K content on our optional new add-on service coming soon!), we want to offer you a free TiVo® Stream 4K device.The TiVo Stream 4K isn't one of the first options that come to mind when it comes to streaming devices, but it should. It's quite a powerful little dongle that can rival ...
Enjoy Prime Day 2021 with a new tablet for your media consumption needs
Finding a good price on a quality tablet can be tough these days, so we've compiled a roundup of the best Prime Day deals on tablets to help save you some money. Tablets are great devices for leisurely enjoying videos, games, or reading, but they can also double as portable productivity machines.There are a number of great options in the "tablet" space, from Amazon's Fire tablets to Android tablet options from the likes of Samsung and Lenovo. We've also seen some fantastic deals on Apple iPads and yes, even Chromebook/Chrome OS tablets (they exist!). Don't forget that one of the top audiences for tablets are children, so we've included the best kids tablet deals too. Whichever top manufacturer you like, and whatever OS you prefer, chances are there will be a great deal on the perfect tablet for you during Prime Day 2021.Lenovo Chromebook DuetI know that it may seem strange to put a Chromebook device as our top pick for the best Prime Day tablet deal, but we love this device. ...
Is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 waterproof?
Best answer: Yes, the Galaxy Watch 3 has a 5ATM and an IP68 ingress rating. This means the smartwatch will survive a splash or track a swim in the pool and keep on ticking.How tough is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3?Sudden rain showers, splashes while washing your hands, or so many other instances all have the same thing in common — moisture. While living life, we are going to come into contact with water, and our accessories need to be able to handle these situations. Will the brand new Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 be able to keep up? Can it go further, maybe coming with you while you swim some laps in the pool?While Samsung was building its best Android smartwatch and including all of its amazing features, the company decided to put a good level of water resistance into it as well. In fact, the watch received a 5ATM and IP68 water resistance rating, and according to Samsung, these ratings equate to the following protections: Water-resistant up to 50 meters per ISO standard 22810:...
Square Enix opens pre-registration for Nier: Re[in]carnation mobile game
What you need to knowNier Reincarnation is a new entry in the Nier franchise made exclusively for mobile.Reincarnation is a "command action RPG" set in a place called The Cage.Square Enix opens pre-registration for the game during E3.Square Enix has announced, during its E3 showcase, that it's opening pre-registration for its mobile RPG, Nier Reincarnation. Android gamers who want to play the game can pre-register for it at the Play Store page.The game's story synopsis on the Store reads: "A girl awakens on a cold stone floor. She finds herself in an infinitely vast place filled with buildings that touch the very sky. Guided by a mysterious creature who calls herself Mama, she begins to explore her new surroundings. To reclaim what she has lost—and atone for her sins—she sets off on a journey through this place of unknown creation… A place known as The Cage."The trailer for the game shown during E3 was very short, but Square Enix has previously released two minu...
The Ryzen-powered ASUS Chromebook Flip CM5 finally goes on sale
It only took ASUS five months to release the Chromebook Flip CM5.What you need to knowThe new ASUS Chromebook Flip CM5 is now on sale after being announced in January at CES.The new Chromebook features up to a Ryzen 5 processor with Radeon graphics for enhanced gaming.The device retails for $500 and is available now at various retailers.Chromebooks aren't exactly known for their gaming chops, but ASUS is trying to change that with the new Chromebook Flip CM5, which is available now.The Chromebook Flip CM5 was among the trio of Chromebooks that ASUS announced at CES 2021 in January. The devices deviated from the norm by offering powerful specs for gaming and work. The Chromebook Flip CM5 launched as a more gaming-focused device, featuring the AMD Ryzen 3 3250C or Ryzen 5 3500C processors that are also found in the similar Acer Chromebook Spin 514.The company touts "the freedom of cloud gaming with support for both Google Stadia and NVIDIA GeForce NOW," although having po...
A new Pixel Stand could point to faster wireless charging for the Pixel 6
The new Pixel Stand could have cooling fans to keep your phone from burning up.What you need to knowEvidence of an updated Google Pixel Stand has been spotted in Android 12 Beta 2.The new wireless charger could include fans to keep the device cool, suggesting faster charging could be in tow.The next Pixel Stand is likely to release alongside the rumored Google Pixel 6.Google may be preparing to release an updated Pixel Stand with cooling fans. Evidence of the new wireless charger has been spotted in the Android 12 Beta 2 code, and it could launch alongside the Google Pixel 6.9to5Google was able to find clues for a device codename "Luxuryliner," which follows the previous Pixel Stand codename "Dreamliner."The code appears to disclose some of the various settings of the wireless charger, including different fan modes or profiles which could be "Auto," "Quiet," and "Power Boost." These could be manually switched and suggests that the charger is capable of faster speeds, to...
These are the best kids shows on Hulu — from Animaniacs to Steven Universe
The best kids shows to watch on Hulu right nowWhile Hulu has established itself as one of the best streaming services for original content and next-day access to current series, it's also a great place to find fresh content for younger viewers in your home. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of the 15 top kids shows on Hulu right now.Content for kidsHuluFrom $6 at HuluStreaming for youngstersIn addition to its roster of impressive Hulu Originals, Hulu's media library inlcudes a varied selection of animated and live action content appropriate for the whole family.Kids shows on HuluAnimated kids showsLive action kids showsKids shows for everyoneAnimated kids showsIn addition to offering a handful of exclusive animated originals, Hulu as an impressive collection of new and classic cartoons that originally aired on other networks. Here are five of the top animated kids shows on Hulu right now:AnimaniacsAnimaniacs is a cartoon variety show tha...
Amazon Prime Gaming is a benefit all Prime members should use
Make use of your Prime membership to its fullest.Amazon Prime comes with a number of benefits for members, and one of these is Prime Gaming. At no extra cost, Amazon Prime members have access to in-game loot, free games, and more with their monthly subscription. While you don't have to take advantage of these offers, it's nice to know that they're available to you. We'll break down everything you need to know about Amazon Prime Gaming and whether it's worth using.Extra benefitsAmazon Prime$13/mo. at AmazonConnect to your Twitch account todayAmazon Prime Gaming offers a number of free goodies to Twitch users who link their accounts. From in-game items to entire games, you'll be able to take download them and keep them forever. Prime Gaming users also get one Twitch subscription to use every month on their favorite streamers.Jump to:What is Amazon Prime Gaming?Amazon Prime Gaming benefitsAmazon Prime Gaming priceShould I use Amazon Prime Gaming?What is ...
Best Prime Day Amazon Device Deals 2021
Amazon's huge Prime Day event officially kicks off on June 21, but you can already save on a bunch of Amazon's own hardware right now. Rather than waiting until later this month, Amazon has got things started early with several deals on Echo speakers, Fire TV devices, Ring doorbells, and more.Best Prime Day Amazon Device Deals Available NowPrime Day Echo deals: Up to 44% offPrime Day Fire TV deals: Save up to $50Prime Day Fire Tablet deals: Up to $75 in savingsPrime Day Kindle deals: Get free Kindle UnlimitedPrime Day Home Security deals: Bundle dealsPrime Day Smart Home deals: From $20Prime Day Amazon Services deals: More dealsWhether you want to find the best Echo deal around or make a saving on a Fire TV or Kindle device, Amazon has got you covered. Many of these stellar early Prime Day deals are exclusive to Prime members, though some are available to all.We'll keep this list updated with all of the Prime Day deals as they become available on the run-up to the b...
We break down the best U.S. wireless carriers
Finding the best wireless carriers in the U.S. can be a bit daunting because they all have a different approach to the same goal. Luckily for the consumers, this competition helps drive these companies to make better products. No matter your needs, there is a carrier for you. For most people, all of these carriers are likely to have some coverage for you. Overall, T-Mobile has great network performance and looks likely to continue to improve in the next few years in both 4G and 5G.Best Overall: T-MobileT-Mobile has continued to improve its network consistently over the past few years with some of the biggest improvements coming in its 5G network. T-Mobile has used to start its 5G network as well as improve its LTE network, with a focus on a wide range of 5G spectrum. Thanks to its purchase of Sprint, T-Mobile has added even more spectrum in the mid-band adding significant speed improvements in the hundreds of markets currently deployed.T-Mobile has three main unlimited plans ...
Apple made the worst Android phone of 2021
Look at this terrible thing.Recently at its Worldwide Developer Conference, Apple unveiled iOS 15, macOS Monterey, and FaceTime for Android — well, kind of. The new FaceTime links capability isn't a native Android app; it just allows you to join FaceTime calls via your web browser using — you guessed it — a good old-fashioned hyperlink.But while Apple expanded its ecosystem with some genuinely cool and impressive additions last week, the thing that caught my eye wasn't a new Apple feature or operating system. Instead, it was the company's take on what an Android phone looks like in 2021, which it used to demo the upcoming FaceTime experience for green-bubblers.The phone appears on the official iOS 15 preview page and looks like this, presented next to Apple's latest iPhone 12 Pro.Of course, the Android phone — that's the one on the right, by the way — isn't a real product. Apple is just as adept at making deliberately ugly things as it is deliberately beautifu...
AT&T maintains 5G speed lead, but T-Mobile is catching up: RootMetrics
What you need to knowAT&T has the best Everyday 5G download speeds in 85 tested markets.T-Mobile has the greatest 5G availability and also has the best single speed result at nearly 200Mbps.Verizon has the most reliable network while gaining ground on AT&T's download speeds in several cities.RootMetrics measures mobile network performance by testing the 125 most populated metros in the U.S. every six months and with its June 5G scorecard, 85 markets have been tested. RootMetrics tests not only speed but availability and reliability to give users an idea of how well each network performs.RootMetrics is now reporting Everyday 5G performance. This is a combination of 5G-only results and 5G mixed mode results. Much of the time, a 5G device will stay connected to LTE even when a 5G signal is present. The device may also drop to LTE for a second or two when a device moves from one tower to another. This is called mixed mode and is a common behavior for 5G devices and will...
Don't muck up the TCL 10 Pro's display and use the best screen protectors
When you think of TCL, you might think of some of the best Android TVs out there, but the company has also made its way into the smartphone market. With devices like the TCL 10 Pro, you're going to enjoy a great display, even better design, and an affordable price. If you want to keep the display from getting scratched up, grab one of the best TCL 10 Pro screen protectors.Have a backupSupershieldz Full Cover Tempered Glass (2-pack)Staff PickWhenever a new smartphone is released, it feels like Supershieldz is one of the first companies to make a screen protector, and that includes the TCL 10 Pro. The Supershieldz Full Cover two-pack of tempered glass screen protectors feature rounded edges, 100% bubble-free adhesive, and 99.99% HD clarity so you won't experience any issues when viewing the display.$12 at Amazon$12 at WalmartFrom the sourceTCL Screen ProtectorIt's not often that a phone maker releases a standalone screen protector, but that's exactly what TCL...
Amazon Echo Show 5 works with Ring devices
Best answer: Yes, the Echo Show 5 allows you to interact with several different Ring products, including the video doorbell, alarm system, and security cameras. However, you'll first need to enable the Ring Skill in your Alexa app.Echo Show 5 (2019)Ring Video Doorbell (2020)Ring Alarm 5 Piece Kit (2nd Gen)What is the Echo Show 5?The Echo Show 5 is one of Amazon's smart screen Alexa-enabled devices that's currently available for purchase. It costs less and is more compact than the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) or Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) while offering the same capabilities. We've tested and reviewed the Echo Show 5 to see how well it works and gave it high marks, and we expect similar performance from the updated second-edition Echo Show 5. For more information on how it differs from the Echo Show 8, check out our comparison articles. Before you can interact with various Ring devices on your Echo Show device, you'll need to go into your Alexa app and enable Ring functions.Many Amaz...
Google's Workspace suite is now free for everyone
Google Workspace enables deeper integrations between all of the company's popular productivity apps.What you need to knowGoogle's Workspace suite of apps and services are now available to all users.The search giant has also announced that it is rebranding Rooms to Spaces. Google workspace launched in October last yearNearly a year after its debut, Google Workspace is now finally available to everyone — including users with a free Google account. Google rebranded its G Suite service to Google Workspace in October last year, with an aim to provide a fully integrated user experience to help people succeed in the new work-from-home reality.Thanks to Google Chat integration in Gmail, you can now easily share ideas or keep track of all your important info in one place. Smart suggestions can help you include the right people with @-mentions, whenever you're drafting a message in Gmail to a group or scheduling a Google Meet invite in a shared calendar. In case you're working on...
Review: The Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) is a truly moving Alexa speaker
This new Echo Show is a real head-turner.The smart speaker market has grown quite a bit since Amazon introduced the first Echo in late 2014. However, after introducing the first Echo Show in 2017, the evolution of smart screened devices hasn't progressed nearly so quickly. There have mostly been incremental updates to the devices put out by Amazon, Google, and others like Lenovo, adding bigger screens and (marginally) better speakers, but nothing has really moved the category forward. As it has done several times before, Amazon is poised to usher in the next paradigm shift in smart speaker tech with its latest Echo device, the Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen).I've had the pleasure of using just about every Alexa and Google Assistant-enabled smart speaker over the past few years, so I feel well-suited to write this Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) review based on that background. I'm not going to get too far into the argument of which smart assistant is better — by now, you've probably made ...
Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen) review: Amazon made its good buds even better
Amazon absolutely nails it with the Echo Buds (2nd Gen).We have a whole host of expert writers and reviewers here at Android Central that eat, sleep, and breathe true wireless earbuds. I'm talking about legit audiophiles who can talk your ears off about dynamic range, sound profiles, and the merits of active noise cancellation. I'm not part of that group, and I'm not invited to sit at their lunch table. Don't ask; it's fine...What I am is an Amazon Alexa enthusiast, and I've owned, tested, or reviewed just about all of the best Alexa devices that have come out in the past few years. Some would say that I'm a little too close with my voice assistant. In fact, I even have a t-shirt that says "Alexa is my side chick," which my wife is not a fan of, lol. So given my Amazon device experience and the fact that I reviewed the original Echo Buds back in 2019, I was the natural choice to write this Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen) review.But enough about me, what you really want to know is: a...
Review: Amazon's new duo of Echo Dots are a roundabout success
Pictured: New Echo Dots with previous-generation Dot for size comparison.Amazon rounds out its mini smart speaker lineup.Everyone who knows me or has read my work here on Android Central knows that I'm a big fan of Amazon's Echo smart speakers and its Alexa voice assistant, so it should come as no surprise that I jumped at the chance to review the new Echo Dot with Clock (4th Gen) and Echo Dot (4th Gen). That being said, aside from the new spherical shape introduced first with the larger Amazon Echo (4th Gen), I didn't think there would be all that much to get excited about. Well, after spending several days with the two newest Echo Dots, I can admit that I was wrong; these things are fantastic!We're now on the fourth generation of Echo Dot devices, and each has improved pretty dramatically over the previous version (though the jump from Gen 1 to Gen 2 wasn't huge). I should know; I have at least one of each generation of Echo Dot in my home right now, and they all still work per...
Put Alexa wherever there is a plug with the Amazon Echo Flex
It's not pretty, but that's kinda the point.When Amazon announced the Echo Flex at its September 2019 event in Seattle, the product received a mixed, if muted reception among the tech press and Echo/Alexa fans. Some saw it as another example of Amazon just throwing a bunch of crud up against a wall (which, ironically, is where this thing goes) to see if it would stick, some didn't pay it much attention at all, and some thought it was possibly the most important product announced at the event.If you're wondering "what the heck is the Echo Flex anyway?" then let me back up a step. The Echo Flex is basically a souped-up smart plug that is meant to bring Alexa functionality to those spaces in your home that are not conducive to placing a larger smart speaker or similar device. It plugs directly into any standard wall outlet and allows you to make queries of Alexa and hear her responses.My initial feelings on the Echo Flex were somewhere between the "throwing stuff against the wall"...
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