Latest from Android Central

Better battery and valueGoogle Pixel 5a$449 at Google StoreProsSame processor/specs as Pixel 5Same solid camerasLower price tagMuch longer battery lifeFinally has water resistanceConsOnly available in U.S. and JapanNo wireless chargingThe Pixel 5a is a phone ready to head out on a chargerless weekend or an all-day Reddit and reading marathon, packing the same Pixel 5 performance into a much more affordable package. This will be the best mid-range phone of 2021 — at least in the U.S. and Japan.On its way outGoogle Pixel 5$699 at AmazonProsSmaller screen and profilemmWave support15W wireless chargingAvailable in more countriesConsMuch more expensiveAbout to be replaced with Pixel 6Average battery lifeLast year's Pixel is easier to use one-handed and supports faster wireless charging than Samsung's latest phones, but who wants to pay 2021 prices for a 2020 phone? Well, at least the Pixel 5 is widely available (for now).Th...

The new update will have the final chapter of the Inazuma storyline.What you need to knowGenshin Impact's latest update, Version 2.1, has been revealed and will launch on September 1.The new update will finish the Inazuma story and introduce three new playable characters and two new islands.Players will also be able to fish in the latest update, as well as attend Liyue's Moonchase Festival.Genshin Impact developers MiHoYo have announced when the latest update to Genshin Impact launches: Version 2.1, called "Floating World Under the Moonlight," will launch on September 1. It'll conclude the Inazuma Archon storyline, introduce two new islands, three new playable characters (and one bonus character for console gamers), and will also roll out fishing.The new update will show the conclusion of the Inazuma storyline that was started with the most recent update. The Traveler will be able to travel to Watatsumi Island, one of the Inazuman Islands and the home of the resistance mo...

Samsung nails the fundamentals with its new Google-powered smartwatches.If you're hoping for a "this changes everything" moment, a deep exhale after years of pent-up frustration, this isn't it. It's not the electric shock that's going to revive the dying patient. It's not even the much-needed coat of paint after years of neglect.But it is the next best thing: the coming together of two capable but flawed parties trying in earnest to solve an intractable problem.We're obviously talking about Wear OS 3, which is the long-awaited culmination of Google's protracted attempt to fish its wearables platform out of the bowl, belly-up, since it began to flounder in 2016 or so. But we're also talking about Samsung's wearable line, which hasn't changed much since the original Galaxy Watch debuted in 2018.When Google and Samsung co-announced their partnership in May, the former yielding some control of its OS to the Korean company and the latter committing to replacing Tizen with Wear OS ...

Only one of the best Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE cases will keep your new tablet protected from life's little mishaps. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE launched in the U.S. earlier this summer and though it doesn't rank as the best Android tablet like its older sibling, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7, it is one of the most affordable Samsung 5G tablets yet and features a beautiful 12.4-inch LCD display with 2560x1600 WQXGA resolution. To keep your device's 8MP rear and 5MP front cameras as well as its pristine screen safe, these are some of the best Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE cases to consider.Two peas in a podSamsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE Book CoverStaff PickNothing will fit your Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE better than a cover straight from Samsung. This book cover is offered in four colors that match your new tablet. It's also slim, lightweight, and keeps everything secure with a magnetic closure. This case also features an antimicrobial coating and is able to be propped up in two different angles s...

Investing in one of the best Android VPN apps could end up being a really smart idea. Odds are that by now you've heard of a Virtual Private Network, or VPN, but may not have signed up for one just yet. It keeps your info, like IP address, location, and personal data hidden so cookies and internet trackers can't log your browser or app use history. VPNs are also helpful when trying to connect to TV streaming apps while you are traveling outside of your come country.Best Android VPN appsExpressVPN: Best option for most peopleSurfshark: The cheapest optionNordVPN: Well-known and affordablePrivate Internet Access: Based in the United StatesPureVPN: Great for streamingTunnelBear: Simple and privacy focusedHotspot Shield: Free plan availableProtonVPN: Security focused company1. ExpressVPN: The absolute best VPN option for most peopleThis is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of speed, reliability, outstanding customer ...

Unlike the Galaxy S21 Ultra, the S22 Ultra will apparently not bring any significant camera upgrades.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy S22 Ultra will reportedly feature a similar camera setup as its predecessor.It is tipped to have two 10MP telephoto cameras, just like the Galaxy S21 Ultra. The Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+, on the other hand, are likely to come equipped with an upgraded 50MP main sensor. Samsung's Galaxy S22 Ultra may not be a major upgrade over the Galaxy S21 Ultra, if a new report is to be believed.According to Galaxy Club, the follow-up to Samsung's best Android phone will use dual 10MP zoom lenses. One of them will be a periscope lens with 10x zoom, while the other one is expected to be a 10MP telephoto lens with identical 3x zoom as the Galaxy S21 Ultra.Even though Samsung is said to be working on a new 200MP sensor, rumors say the S22 Ultra will use a newer version of the 108MP ISOCELL HM3 sensor. Xiaomi's Mi 11 successor, which could debut some...

Pixel on a budget.Following up on 2019's excellent Pixel 3a series, Google once again targeted the budget smartphone landscape with two excellent offerings in 2020 — the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a 5G. The phones have a fair amount of similarities and differences, but they both share the same goal of delivering great value to those shopping on a budget.Google prioritized lower-cost devices in 2020, even with its Pixel 5 "flagship" phone that didn't quite match up in power against other top-tier phones. The Pixel 4a tops our current list of the best cheap Android phones thanks to its great camera, relatively fast speeds, and great stock Android support. The 4a 5G compromises between the 4a and 5 as a solid mid-range phone, adding an ultra-wide camera and better specs for a hefty price jump.With the Pixel 6 and Pixel 5a on the way, Google may release a fire sale on Pixel 4a phones soon, or possibly run out of stock. You're likely wondering whether these phones still have value today,...

If you're currently on the fence about whether you should buy the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, one of the questions you're probably asking yourself about your size preference. The good news is that among the new models, there are four different Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 sizes to pick from. Your ultimate decision will likely depend on the size of your wrist and which Galaxy Watch 4 design you find more appealing. We've rounded up each of the options to help you pick a winner.Larger display for the winSamsung Galaxy Watch 4 (44mm)Staff PickIf you like the sound of a lightweight aluminum case but you want a big display, the 44mm Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 variant may appeal to you. It's less than a gram heavier than the smaller 40mm variant, so it's still very light. You get a 1.4-inch Super AMOLED display and a digital rotating bezel. You can get this watch in green, black, or silver.From $280 at SamsungSmallest and lightestSamsung Galaxy Watch 4 (40mm)Fitness enthusi...

The all-new PlayStation 5 is officially available for purchase, but finding a retailer that actually has stock of the new console available to buy isn't such an easy task just yet. With that being said, there are still plenty of opportunities to pick up the new PlayStation 5 or the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition if you give it just a bit of time and know where to keep looking.As of August 2021, we're noticing that the PlayStation 5 still typically goes out of stock on the same day as it becomes available for purchase at most major online retailers. While that outlook may seem grim, the bright side is that retailers are consistently receiving stock of the console and you generally don't have to wait too long before they return in stock somewhere.TargetTarget is where you should purchase the PlayStation 5 when given the chance, since there's a way you can actually save up to $25 on its purchase there when you check out using the RedCard. There's a free debit version with no fe...

NVIDIA's cash-and-stock agreement offer currently stands at $54.3 billion.What you need to knowNVIDIA says its acquisition of Arm is very likely to stretch beyond the 18-month deal timeframe.The deal is currently being scrutinized by regulators in the U.S., U.K., and China. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang is still hopeful of completing the acquisition by the end of 2022. NVIDIA has finally admitted that its acquisition of British chip designer Arm is taking longer than it had expected. The deal was announced in September last year and is scheduled to be completed by March 2022."Our discussions with regulators are taking longer than initially thought, so it's pushing out the timetable, " Huang told the Financial Times. He added that the company is confident in the deal and hopeful that regulators will "recognize the benefits of the acquisition." In addition to regulators, the deal also faces opposition from chip companies that rely on Arm's core designs.In the U.K., the governme...

The new kingSamsung Galaxy Watch 4 ClassicFrom $350 at AmazonFrom $350 at Best BuyFrom $350 at WalmartProsRuns the new Wear OS 3Advanced 3-in-1 health sensorFaster performanceMore memory and storageLonger software supportImproved display resolutionConsFewer color optionsSamsung has taken all of the features that made its previous generation of smartwatches great and made them even better with the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. With improved performance, battery life, new advanced health sensors, and more, along with the new Wear OS, this is now the ultimate smartwatch.Reliquishing the crownSamsung Galaxy Watch 3From $350 at AmazonFrom $350 at Best BuyFrom $283 at WalmartProsStill has two years of Tizen OS supportHas more color choicesSnappy performanceHas a titanium case optionConsLarger and heavier than Galaxy Watch 4 ClassicOlder, slower processorLess memory and storageTizen won't be supported as long as Wear OS 3Missing new hea...

What does a carrier have to do to lose your business?What you need to knowEarlier this week, we polled AC readers to ask if the latest T-Mobile data breach made them want to switch their wireless carrier.Nearly three-quarters of respondents said they wouldn't be switching or weren't sure yet if they might.Almost a third of respondents indicated they'd had enough and would be switching to a new carrier.This week another shocking data breach came to light that reportedly leaked the personal information of tens of millions of current and former T-Mobile customers. Subsequent reporting revealed that the actual number of affected customers was much lower than originally reported, but it was still in the order of 50 million total accounts.Considering how popular T-Moble is among our readers, we thought we'd ask them if this latest breach was enough to make them want to switch carriers — and the results we got were a little surprising. Over 40% said that they would not leave T...

A brief guide to the nerdy science behind the past decade's quantum leap in phone photo quality.Your smartphone's camera is much more than just a camera. Every time you take a photo, it's doing a lot more than just hoovering up tiny dots of light and displaying them on-screen. A large part of the behind-the-scenes magic is computational photography, which sounds complicated, but is a pretty broad term that refers to cameras manipulating an image digitally, using a built-in computer, as opposed to applying good old-fashioned optics.The camera in any modern smartphone basically acts as a standalone computer. It uses specialized computing cores to process the digital information captured by the camera sensor and then translates it into an image we can see on the display or share across the internet — or even print out and hang on the wall. It's very different from the old way where photographers used film and darkrooms. Your phone's camera is basically a standalone computer....

It will take time to get used to a foldable smartphone form factor, but experts say that the cheaper price tag on the newly announced Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 will entice a younger TikTok-first generation who may not be tied to Apple's smartphone ecosystem.At its Unpacked event on August 11, Samsung announced two new foldable smartphones: the Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3. While the Fold is the more powerful flagship, Samsung said that the Z Flip 3 is "our most stylish smartphone yet," designed to "make a statement."The sleek flip phone costs $999, the same price as a Galaxy S21+, which means anyone walking into a carrier store will be able to buy a phone based on design, form factor, and eye-catching cases, without worrying as much about the cost of the phone.Anshel Sag, a senior analyst at Moor Insights & Strategy, said in an interview it's very clear Samsung created the phone for a younger audience."It feels geared towards content creation and portrait-based apps like TikTok,...

The true heir to the Note throne now comes in a more useful form factor.For its third generation of foldables, Samsung seemingly didn't hold anything back. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is Samsung's top-tier foldable phone, topping out with more RAM, more storage, an upgraded outer screen, bigger (and more) screens, better cameras, new screen protectors, and support for the fabled S Pen. It may still have the same physical camera hardware as last year's Galaxy Z Fold 2, but software improvements make it a much better camera than the specs suggest.Despite the importance placed on quality-of-life features like the addition of water resistance — something consumers have come to take for granted in smartphones — the real revolutionary feature lies in the Z Fold 3's compatibility with the S Pen. As the unofficial replacement for the Galaxy Note series in 2021, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 form factor achieves a goal no Note phone has ever been able to: the feeling of writing in a digital notebook....

You'll have to install a firmware update to start using Nanoleaf Shapes and Elements controllers as Thread Border Routers.What you need to knowNanoleaf has rolled out its own Thread Border Routers via the Nanoleaf Shapes and Elements controllers.The Thread Border Router function helps eliminate the need for extra hubs. Nanoleaf is also partnering with Eero to launch the brand's mesh Wi-Fi routers as Thread Border Routers. Popular smart lighting maker Nanoleaf is rolling out Thread Border Router support to its Shapes and Elements controllers. Nanoleaf Essentials devices can now "automatically start using the Thread network once their Shapes or Elements controller is connected to Wi-Fi." The ability is already live for iOS users, while Android users will need to wait just a little longer. Nanoleaf says it will eventually open up Thread capabilities to all users.Additionally, Nanoleaf has announced that it is partnering with Amazon's Eero to broaden the Thread ecosystem with...

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3The obvious choiceFrom $1,800 at SamsungProsDurable designHigh-end internals120Hz screens inside and outNow works with S Pen IPX8 water resistanceConsCameras unchanged from last yearUnder screen camera is below averageCostlyWith considerable upgrades over its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 is the best showing from Samsung in the foldables category yet. The phone has a new plastic layer that is more durable and mimics the feel of glass, both the inner and outer screens have 120Hz refresh, and you even get IPX8 water resistance. Combine that with S Pen integration and there's plenty to like in the Z Fold 3.Samsung Galaxy FoldOutclassed$1,090 at SamsungProsStill a great designFold-out screen is ideal for streamingHigh-end hardwareSame great software featuresDecent camerasConsPlastic screen coating isn't durableHinge reliability issuesNo water resistanceScreens limited to 60HzAs a technical showcase, the Gala...

Things between Google and Epic are heating up.What you need to knowCourt documents filed by Epic describe shady practices by Google to keep its tight hold on the Play Store.One project apparently paid top game developers to keep them from moving away from the Play Store.Another program reportedly secured deals with OEMs to limit third-party app stores on their devices.While Epic's fight with Apple continues, the battle between Epic and Google heats up as newly unredacted documents reveal ways that Google sought to maintain its grasp on the Play Store and app developers.Court documents from Epic describe various ways that Google has allegedly coaxed developers and OEMs from straying from the Play Store. Many of these practices have been called out in ongoing litigation against Google. However, the documents from Epic Games appear to provide more detail about Google's activities.First pointed out by The Verge, "Project Hug" was a program that Google implemented after fear...

OnlyFans pulls a Tumblr.What you need to knowOnlyFans will no longer allow sexually explicit content on the site starting in October.The website is trying to position itself as a place for content creators.The transition follows a similar move made by Tumblr in 2018, which was widely unpopular.Popular content subscription service OnlyFans has announced (via Bloomberg) that it will no longer allow sexually explicit content on the website as of October 1.The move has surprised many as the website, known for its sexually explicit content, has seen a surge in popularity following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.While we've reached out for additional details, Bloomberg reports that the move was ignited by pressure from baking institutions as the site seeks investor funding to attain a $1 billion valuation. In order to ensure the long-term sustainability of our platform, and continue to host an inclusive community of creators and fans, we must evolve our content guidel...

Best answer: Although Visible is powered by Verizon's LTE and 5G network, only select phones are compatible. This includes many popular devices, such as the Galaxy S20 family, the Pixel 4a and 5 series, and the Moto Edge. If you prefer Team Apple, the iPhone 6 up to the iPhone 12 Pro Max is fully supported.Visible only works with select Android phonesVisible is one of the most enticing carrier options on the market right now. Still, at least for the time being, the most significant limiting factor is its lineup of supported top Android phones. Below is a list of Android phones that are compatible with Visible.GooglePixel 3Pixel 3 XLGoogle Pixel 3aGoogle Pixel 3a XLPixel 4Pixel 4 XLPixel 4aPixel 5Hot PepperHot Pepper GhostLGG8G8 ThinQStylo 5/M7Stylo 6V40MotorolaMoto EMoto E6Moto EdgeMoto G powerMoto G7 powerMoto Z4OnePlus8 Pro87 Pro7TSamsungGalaxy A11Galaxy A12Galaxy A21Galaxy A42 5GGalaxy A50Galaxy A51Galaxy S8Galaxy S8...

Let's try this again, shall we?What you need to knowThe FTC has filed an amended complaint against Facebook.The complaint asserts that Facebook has held a monopoly since 2011 by acquiring platforms that threaten its position.Facebook maintains that its acquisitions have been reviewed and cleared and that the company does not hold a monopoly.The FTC has filed an amended lawsuit against Facebook on Thursday. The complaint doubles down on the initial accusation that Facebook partakes in anticompetitive behavior by acquiring platforms that threaten its position.The lawsuit was originally filed late last year, but the judge found it provided insufficient evidence of Facebook's monopoly and dismissed the lawsuit, giving the FTC a chance to amend its complaint with more details to make its case.The new filing contains many of the same arguments as the initial complaint but further analyzes Facebook's actions since its inception. In it, the FTC asserts that Facebook has held a ...

The Motorola Edge (2021) is largely identical to the Motorola Edge 20.What you need to knowThe new Motorola Edge is now official in the U.S.It comes with a 6.8-inch 144Hz display and a 6nm Snapdragon 778G chipset. The mid-ranger will go on sale in the U.S. from September 2 for $500. The Motorola Edge was one of the best Android phones that the Lenovo-owned company released last year, offering a flagship-like experience at $700. Motorola has now launched a successor to the Motorola Edge, featuring improved specs and a more competitive price tag.The Motorola Edge (2021) sports a 6.8-inch LCD Max Vision display featuring FHD+ resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and up to 576Hz touch response. It is powered by Qualcomm's mid-range Snapdragon 778G chipset, which is a decent upgrade over the Snapdragon 765 chipset inside last year's Edge.The Motorola Edge (2021) is also a massive upgrade over its predecessor in the camera department. It has a triple-camera setup on the back w...

Google was dreaming big with native gaming on Mac/PC and support for consoles like the Nintendo Switch.What you need to knowNew internal documents from Google detail plans to build "the world's largest gaming platform."These plans included bringing native gaming to Macs, PC, and Android — and even support for Nintendo Switch.The goal was to bring in users and developers to help this platform reach as many people as possible.Stadia eventually fulfilled some of these goals, but it's just a ghost of what Google allegedly wanted.While the industry now has plenty of great game streaming services these days, they still have serious drawbacks for anyone who isn't on the most solid Gigabit internet, as our own Jennifer Locke put on full display after spending weeks with Stadia on AT&T 5G. For millions of gamers, game streaming will never be as viable a solution as native gaming, and according to documents obtained by The Verge, Google reportedly had plans to bring native gam...

I have been cooking and baking for years and consider myself a pretty experienced cook. However, there are still plenty of apps I rely on in the kitchen for recipes and cooking assistance. Some of them provide great recipes with star ratings and tips from other home cooks and bakers, while others serve as a perfect digital cookbook where you can store your favorite recipes and even upload your own. Others provide inspiration and even step-by-step videos if you want to follow along. Here are some of the best of the best Android recipe apps when it comes to cooking, baking, and organizing yourself in the kitchen.The top 3 apps1. Paprika Recipe Manager 32. Copy Me That 3. AllRecipes Dinner Spinner More optionsTastyOh She GlowsYummlyCookpadWeber iGrillFood Network KitchenBigOvenKitchen StoriesPinterestThese are the best recipe apps for AndroidPaprika Recipe Manager 3 is my hands-down favorite recipe app. I have used it for years and love how simple it is to ...

If you're looking for a classy smartwatch that's packed with health and fitness features, you might end up buying the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. Your next order of business is to find a suitable band. Whether you're a personal trainer or a casual runner, there are several options to pick from. You can also find fancy options that are better suited for special occasions. We've rounded up the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic bands to help you decide.Perfectly soft and permeableISABAKE Soft Silicone Watch BandStaff PickSports fans will love this soft and permeable silicone band from ISABAKE. It's comfortable enough to wear all day long, but durable enough to withstand tough workouts. Your skin will thank you later. The gentle waterproof material won't irritate your wrist or create funky smells. There are nine unique color combos to choose from, too.$8 at AmazonStretch it outOlytop Elastic BandIf you've been searching high and low for a comfortable band that doe...

More value, more timeGoogle Pixel 5a$449 at GoogleProsSimilar screen and cameras to last year's Pixel 4a 5GEven cheaper than Pixel 4a 5GUpgraded processorIP67 water resistance5G supportConsMore expensive than previous Pixel 3a and 4aDoesn't support mmWave 5GNot a huge upgrade over Pixel 4a 5GA lot of people may say that the Pixel 5a is just a repackaged Pixel 4a 5G, but that's not entirely true, nor would it be a bad thing if it were. For starters, it is $50 cheaper than the 4a 5G, has IP67 water resistance, and a much larger battery. Given that it has all of these upgrades and is only $100 more than the older 4a, it is clear where we'd put our money in this faceoff.A lasting legacyGoogle Pixel 4a$349 at AmazonProsBest phone under $400Pixel-quality camera Solid battery lifeGreat size for those who prefer smaller phonesStill on track for two Android platform updatesConsNo official waterproofingNo wireless chargingNo 5G supportS...

While it can be fun to accessorize, sometimes it feels like an uphill battle to find the perfect blend of function and fashion. It's especially true when you're shopping for the best Android smartwatch for women. Fortunately, there are tons of options for women to choose from these days. The Fossil Gen 5 Julianna is our favorite, which offers premium features while boasting a classic, stylish design. It's just one of many options to consider when looking for the best smartwatch for women. We've rounded up the best picks to help you choose the right one.Best overall: Fossil Gen 5 JuliannaIf you were a fan of the Gen 4 smartwatches from Fossil, but hoped for improvements, you'll appreciate the Gen 5 smartwatches — including the gorgeous Julianna. It comes with a new stylish design, more RAM, and an external speaker. It also does everything you need: activity and heart rate tracking, 3 ATM water resistance (depth of up to 30 meters), Google Pay, Google Assistant, GPS, and notifi...

Google says its hands-free hotel solution will help make your stay "more convenient and fun."What you need to knowGoogle's hands-free, voice-first experience on Nest Hub smart displays is now available in guest rooms at Legoland hotels.Guests can use Google Assistant on Nest Hub smart displays at Legoland hotels to do things like find help, play music, get recommendations for local restaurants, and more. Guests won't have to sign in to the device to access the features. Google introduced a new hospitality solution offering a hands-free, voice first experience with Google Assistant last year. The solution, which is already available in several hotels across the U.S. and U.K., is now expanding to Legoland hotels. Guests can now access "the best of Google" at both Legoland Hotel and Legoland California Resort, as well as the new Legoland Hotel at Legoland New York Resort.You can use Google Assistant on Google's best smart display at Legoland hotels to find help from hotel st...

Buy in bulkMint MobileFrom $15/mo. at Mint MobileProsT-Mobile 5G and 4G LTE networkUnlimited talk and textAffordable plans Free calls to Canada and MexicoHotspot data with every planConsMust buy in bulkUnlimited plan slowed at 35GBNo multi-line discountsTaxes and fees aren't includedWith Mint Mobile, you can save money by signing up for three, six, or 12 months at a time. Each plan comes with unlimited talk and text and no overages once you've used your data. Speeds will be lowered, but you can upgrade your plan mid-cycle or easily add more data.Big on dataBoost MobileFrom $10/mo. at Boost MobileProsT-Mobile (and former Sprint) networkMultiple data plan options Unlimited music streamingShrink-it! plan discountHotspot data with every planConsUnlimited plan slowed at 35GBWeaker device compatibility If you have great T-Mobile coverage, Boost Mobile has a plan for everyone that offers plenty of data, great international calling ...

Working virtually in a fake meeting room.What you need to knowFacebook launched Horizon Workrooms for Oculus Quest 2 today.The app is in open beta and allows office teams to collaborate in a virtual meeting room.Includes support for remote desktop alongside Outlook or Google Calendar.Facebook announced on Thursday a new free virtual reality office collaboration app called Horizon Workrooms for the Oculus Quest 2.The new app is currently in open beta, according to the Oculus blog. It offers a virtual meeting space modeled after a business room for workers to meet face-to-face without physically being in the same room. The room offers an infinite whiteboard that can be written on using the Quest 2 controller, customized based on basic conversation or presentation, and scale depending on the size of the group.You'll either join your meetings with your Quest 2 headset as a personalized avatar — which were updated earlier this year — or through a video call on your com...

For those moments when you want your disappearing messages to stay a bit longerWhat you need to knowWhatsApp has been spotted working on a 90-day option for ephemeral messages.The new capability will sit alongside the app's existing message expiry option.It's expected to launch on the beta channel first before going live for everyone.WhatsApp appears to be heavily invested in ephemeral chat over the past several months. After introducing a feature last year that makes messages disappear after seven days, it has now been spotted working on expanding that capability.First spotted by the folks over at WABetaInfo, the Facebook-owned service seems to be developing a new option that will allow you to set your message to disappear after 90 days. Evidence of the new feature has been spotted in the latest WhatsApp beta update (v2.21.17.16). The feature isn't live at the moment, although it's expected to launch on the beta channel in the future.When it rolls out, the 90-day opt...

Samsung makes some of the very best Android phones money can buy, but as great as they are, they're all plagued by something kind of infuriating — pesky advertisements. If you've owned a Samsung Galaxy in recent years, chances are you've noticed ads in your notification tray and in certain Samsung apps. Today, we're showing you how to disable all of these once and for all.How to turn off ads on your Samsung phoneSamsung has been injecting advertisements into its smartphones for a couple of years now, but especially with the release of the Galaxy S21 family, they seem to be worse than ever before. The above screenshots were taken on my personal S21, featuring banner and full-screen takeover ads in Samsung Weather, Samsung Pay, and the Bixby app.These kinds of in-app advertisements are present in just about every first-party Samsung application, and, unfortunately, it isn't possible to 100% stop them from showing up. Thankfully, there are a couple of things you can do to try...

For nearly seven years now, we've known and loved Amazon's Alexa as a valuable virtual assistant who just happens to have a traditionally female-sounding voice. Even though users have been able to change the voices on other virtual assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, Amazon had remained alone in identifying its AI as female. But now, finally, Echo owners can make their Alexa sound differently than ever before. So let's dive in and find out how to change Alexa's voice on your Echo device.How to change the Alexa voice on your Amazon EchoOpen your Amazon Alexa app.Tap on the Devices tab at the bottom of the screen.Tap on Echo & Alexa.Tap on the device you want to change.Tap on the Settings icon (gear-shaped) in the top right corner of the screen.Scroll down and tap on Alexa's Voice.To select the traditionally male-sounding voice, tap New.Return to the previous screen and tap on Wake Word.Here you can change the wake word from Alexa to others such as "Amazon,"...

Did you know it's possible to use an Xbox One controller with your Android device? With the release of the Xbox One S, Microsoft started outfitting its Xbox One controllers with Bluetooth radios. While this feature was made mostly for PC gaming, you'll be happy to know that it works surprisingly well with Android phones and their games. While more appropriate controllers for mobile gaming are available, this is a nice trick to have in your back pocket. So for those wondering how to use an Xbox One controller on Android, here's how.Products used in this guideA simple, quality controller: Xbox One Wireless Controller: $85 at AmazonHow to pair an Xbox One controller with your Android phoneFor starters, you'll want to ensure the Xbox One controller you have uses Bluetooth. As a rule of thumb, newer versions of the Xbox One S and Xbox One X come with Bluetooth by default. If you're buying a new controller, Amazon has them for $50. Assuming your phone works just fine with the Xbox ...

The FedEx Cup kicks off this week, with the season's top 125 golfers taking on the Liberty National Golf Course in New Jersey.Watch every ball of this playoff event with our 2021 Northern Trust live stream guide below.With just 70 players set to advance to next week's BMW Championship from this tournament's field, the stakes are high.Playing as a par 71, measuring 7,410 yards with bentgrass greens, the course's location to the Hudson River makes this former landfill site particularly susceptible to wind, bringing further drama to an already mentally demanding tournament.The course last held this event back in 2019, with Patrick Reed ending the tournament victorious.That event saw Jon Rahm finish third and the Spaniard is now widely expected to go a step further this year, with the World No.1 and US Open champion the outright favourite to win the 2021 installment.Read on for full details on how to live stream 2021 Northern Trust PGA Tour golf online from anywhere.2021 No...

While it isn't the latest in the Samsung lineup, the Samsung Galaxy S10 is still a very capable device. Being a flagship smartphone, it's also quite fragile, complete with a glass back panel and a curved display. So if you're planning on buying one, or you have one and you want to keep it in good shape, it only makes sense to protect it with a heavy duty case. Here are a few of the best Galaxy S10 rugged cases you can get.Top-tier protectionOtterbox Defender Series - Screenless Edition<img src="https://www.androidcentral.com/Staff PickOtterbox's cases have always been renowned for their legendary durability, and the Defender Series is no different. Featuring a polycarbonate shell and an outer slipcover made from synthetic rubber, it gives your Galaxy S10 multi-layered protection. The case also comes with a clip-on polycarbonate holster, whose belt clip can swivel sideways to function as a kickstand.$20 at AmazonBuilt to withstand anythingArmadilloTek Vanguard...

What you need to knowCricket unlimited customers will get HBO Max with ads for free starting August 20.You must have or upgrade to Cricket's $60 unlimited plan.HBO Max with ads costs $10 per month separately.Cricket Wireless is a prepaid phone service that is owned by AT&T that provides a wide range of plans whether you need unlimited data or just a couple of gigs. Starting on August 20, Cricket Wireless is adding HBO Max with ads to its top $60 unlimited plan. The price comes down when you add multiple lines with four lines bringing the cost down to $33 per line. This plan also comes with 5G access, no speed limit, and 15GB of mobile hotspot data.This HBO Max plan normally costs $9.99 per month and comes with all of HBO's programs except for Warner Bros. movie premieres. All of HBO's original programming as well as its other movies and TV shows are available to this tier of customers. Unlike other HBO subscriptions, however, ads will be shown for HBO original programs ...

As NVIDIA proclaims in every piece of marketing, the Shield Android TV box is "the streamer for gamers." It also happens to be the best TV streaming box for playing games developed for Android TV from the Google Play Store. Want to start playing? Here are some games to try.If you're wanting some more games to play on the go, then be sure to check out our best Android games list!Note: The NVIDIA Shield TV (2019) is not quite as gamer-ready as its predecessors and the Shield TV Pro (2019). NVIDIA went with a 32-bit version of Android TV and also downgraded the RAM on its tube-shaped streaming dongle to just 2GB. This has affected the base model's compatibility with some 64-bit games from the Play Store including several on this list (Metal Gear Solid 2, Half-Life 2, The Witness, and Portal). Meanwhile, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro (2019) is still fully compatible to play all games developed for the Shield lineup.Best Android games for NVIDIA Shield:Death Road to CanadaMorphite...

OnePlus will release one more device in its numbered flagship series this year.OnePlus changed its fall launch strategy last year; it eschewed the OnePlus 8T Pro in favor of a single model, the OnePlus 8T, and the Chinese manufacturer is set to follow a similar pattern this year. We've already heard that there will not be a OnePlus 9T this time, but OnePlus is going to release a device in the numbered flagship series.According to information from my insider sources, OnePlus will unveil the OnePlus 9 RT in the month of October. The phone will offer modest upgrades over the OnePlus 9R and will be limited to select markets. This is the only phone in the numbered flagship series that's on the cards for later this year; there will be two Nord launches, but no new devices aimed at the high-end segment.OnePlus 9 RT specs and launch dateAs for the hardware on offer, the OnePlus 9 RT uses the 9R as a foundation, so it will feature the same 120Hz AMOLED panel, a higher-binned version...

Google's current Pixel phones — including the latest Pixel 5a 5G, support 18W wired charging.What you need to knowA new report claims the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro will support 33W charging speeds.The Pixel 5, which is Google's current "flagship," only supports 18W fast charging. Additionally, the report suggests the Pixel Fold has been delayed. Earlier this week, a report claimed that the upcoming Pixel 6 series phones won't ship with a charger in the box. Now, a new report from 91Mobiles suggests the flagship duo will offer significantly faster charging speeds than Google's current Pixel phones.According to 91Mobiles, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will both support 33W fast charging, a major upgrade over the 18W charging speeds supported by the Pixel 5. If the information is accurate, Google's Pixel 6 series will have faster charging speeds than the best Samsung phones of 2021.Samsung's flagship Galaxy S21 series phones — including the Galaxy S21 Ultra, support 25W wired fa...

You've been there. A friend comes over with their new Android phone, and within the first five minutes, they ask the question, "Hey, what's the Wi-Fi password?" Rather than having to tell them the password is "IAmAParasite" (which is the best guest password ever, by the way), wouldn't it be easier just to hold up your phone and let your friend scan a QR code? Google agrees, which is why QR sharing is baked into Android 12.There are three ways to share Wi-Fi credentials in Android 12. You can let them scan a QR code, or you can use Nearby Share. During the process, the Wi-Fi credentials will be shown in cleartext, so you can allow your friend to enter the Wi-Fi credentials that way too. The process to get to the QR code, cleartext, and Nearby Share are all located in basically the same place, so there's just one set of steps to find each below.How to share Wi-Fi credentials on Android 12Swipe down your notification shade.Tap the arrow pointing to the right for Internet.Tap th...

Put on your thinking hat.We're rounding up some of our favorite strategy games on Android for the deep thinkers out there. These are more than just simple puzzle games — these require careful planning and forethought to emerge victoriously. You'll find some great replay value in games like these as well since the same strategy won't always work twice.Strategy gamers, pop on your thinking caps and get downloading these outstanding Android games. And if you're looking for the best games in other genres, we have those, too.The gamesTropicoMindustryThe Escapists 2: Pocket BreakoutHoledown Civilization Revolution 2The Battle for PolytopiaXCOM: Enemy WithinMushroom Wars 2Fire Emblem: HeroesPandemic: The Board GameVaingloryHearthstoneGwentLegends of RuneterraStar CommandBad NorthROME: Total WarBloons TD 6Card ThiefHello NeighborChess by AI Factory LimitedHeroes of FlatlandiaEnyoCrying SunsTropicoRunning a whole country is hard, but it helps whe...

More blades, more blossoms, more blood.Ghost of Tsushima was one of the swan songs of the PS4, a game where Sucker Punch Productions told the story of a lone samurai struggling with his identity while beating back the unending Mongol invaders. Now, with the Director's Cut, the developers have packaged in a new expansion set on Iki Island. The PS5 version also has a handful of other upgrades befitting the more advanced hardware.Interesingly enough, moving forward, the Director's Cut is the only way to buy the game digitally if you're a newcomer, while existing players can upgrade in order to access the new story and features at a reduced price.Overall, Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut is a solid package, delivering improvements on the existing experience, while the new expansion offers new challenges even for the most seasoned players. This early on into the PS5's lifecycle, it's arguably one of the best PS5 games available. That said, the pricing strategy is a bit bold and wit...

The shows you don't want to miss on Netflix in 2021While Netflix started as a movie service, fans now think of the streaming platform's extensive library of great shows. Netflix has so many great TV shows that it can be hard to know where to begin. Whether you're streaming a new series from the comfort of your couch or downloading series to watch on your phone to watch later, here are 25 of the best Netflix shows streaming in 2021.The OG streamerNetflixFrom $9/mo. at NetflixStream all the original shows and moviesNetflix subscribers have access to thousands of shows and movies at their fingertips. Sign up now to check out hit series like Bridgerton, Stranger Things, The Crown, and more.Best shows on Netflix 2021New on NetflixPopular on NetflixOnly on NetflixDocuseries on NetflixKids show on NetflixNew on NetflixOne of the best things about Netflix is that it's constantly updating its media library with fresh new shows and episodes. Along those line...

Best answer: Yes, you can install a third-party screen protector on top of the non-removable factory-installed screen protector for your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3.Keeping your new flip phone screen safeWhen folding phones started to become a reality, tech fans got super excited at the prospect of getting a larger display in a more portable form factor. Samsung has been leading this charge, and the new Galaxy Z Flip 3 is one of the latest in that line of devices, along with the Galaxy Z Fold 3.However, one of the biggest roadblocks when it came to previous Flip phones was the fragile glass. Like most phones, the UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) used for the folding screen needs to be kept safe with a screen protector, and in line with the necessity of it here, it has one installed from the factory. However, for extra protection can you install a third-party on top of Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 3 screen protector?Though the short answer is yes, the complete answer is a bit more complicated. I...

The new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 has some really great improvements over the 2020 model. It's definitely an exciting device, from the larger external display to the new material protecting the internal display. Unfortunately, while Samsung included water resistance with the phone, it doesn't mean that it's more durable. Though you can't remove the factory-installed screen protector on the inner display, you can still use a third-party screen protector for extra protection. These are the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 screen protectors you can get for your new flip phone.Leading the chargeWhitestone Dome Silk for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 screen protectorWhitestone is pushing the limits with its ultra-thin glass screen protectors. Instead of a plastic film, this screen protector lets you enjoy the enhanced clarity and feel of glass. Luckily, it also keeps your Galaxy Z Flip 3's screen looking as clean as the day you unboxed it.$60 at AmazonFully coveredOrzero Samsung Ga...

Google has the ability to save the family wall calendar with its smart displays, but it hasn't.Being organized is an essential part of today's world — especially for families. Between juggling personal appointments, work obligations, and activities for the kids, it's easy to miss something without a good event tracking system. One of the most long-standing options for doing this is the family wall calendar. However, with digital tools like Google Tasks and Google Calendar, the paper calendar is dying — but a central hub for the family to stay on the same proverbial page shouldn't go by the wayside.Growing up, we were always busy with something happening with school activities and sports. One of the staples in our home was the trusty wall calendar, which would have things scribbled down for what we had going on for the month. Of course, these were times before smartphones, little to no internet, and even texting wasn't much of a thing early on, so that means communication was ...

OPPO is gearing up to show Samsung how to make an under-display camera.What you need to knowOPPO unveils new camera technology at its Future Imaging Technology event.Its new Continuous Optical Zoom maintains image quality at different magnifications.The company shows off a new RGBW sensor and 5-axis Optical Image Stabilization.OPPO also highlights its next-generation under-display camera with a high pixel density.With companies like Samsung and ZTE touting their new under-display camera tech, OPPO is showcasing its own imaging advancements at the 2021 OPPO Future Imaging Technology Launch Event.One of the biggest advancements announced at the event is OPPO's new Continuous Optical Zoom. Thanks to a new structural module, the lens system can physically move and capture images between 85mm and 200mm focal lengths. OPPO says that the module can move with precision thanks to a tunnel magnetoresistance sensor, providing "sharp images at every magnification level, from up clos...

With a modern UI and dozens of useful features, DSM 7.0 sets a very high bar for NAS software.Synology makes the best home NAS enclosures, and a big part of what makes its products stand out is the software. Over the years, DiskStation Manager (DSM) emerged as the runaway leader for NAS software thanks to its clean layout and robust feature-set. With DSM 6.0 in particular, Synology was able to carve out a healthy lead over its rivals.That said, DSM 6.0 launched all the way back in 2016, and while Synology rolled out regular updates with new features and version releases like DSM 6.2, the interface was getting a bit long in the tooth. Synology is now aiming to fix that with DSM 7.0, its most ambitious software release yet. DSM 7.0 introduces a much more modern UI and comes with exciting new photo management and cloud features, and the best part is that it is available for all Synology NAS enclosures released within the last seven years.I started using the beta build of DSM 7.0 o...

Best answer: No, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic do not support Qi wireless charging, and only certain Samsung wireless chargers can charge them. This includes the LTE and Bluetooth-only models of the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic.Does the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 support Qi wireless charging?Samsung just announced two excellent smartwatches alongside its 2021 foldable lineup. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic feature some fantastic specifications and boast stellar displays. Factor in Wear OS 3, and you have the best Apple Watch contender in the Android smartwatch scene. The two Samsung wearables from the Galaxy Watch 4 series are very similar, but with a few differences.You can buy either model with LTE or without LTE, and the prices vary accordingly. There are two different sizes of each Galaxy smartwatch available. The Galaxy Watch 4 with a smaller 40mm display has a 247mAh battery, whereas the larger 44mm option has a 361mAh one ...