Latest from Android Central

"Why does this phone exist?" To prove Pixels can actually do battery right.The Google Pixel line has suffered from fatal flaws in previous generations, but the one that crops up time and time again is short battery life. The Pixel 4 was essentially killed by its own small battery, and the Pixel 3 was barely any better. Last year's Pixel 5 had a good enough battery to get through a good day, and that was a banner achievement for Google after years of battery woes.Last year's Pixel 4a 5G was in the same boat: it could get through the day with its battery, but it was too expensive to compete with the mid-range phones and too underpowered to fight with some of the best Android phones in the $500-$700 range last year — like the Pixel 5 once it got down to $600. Performance was fine, but it just didn't fit anywhere in the United States market.This year's Pixel 5a is only launching in the United States and Japan, so Google had to ensure that it could properly compete on both feature...

Upon our initial review of the NVIDIA Shield TV Stick, it was clear that this device was easily one of the best at providing an excellent streaming and gaming experience. Even though it's been about two years since its release, this 4K streaming media player is "still the best Android TV box you can buy in 2021" and thanks to a sale that's set to last for just this week only, you can snag one at nearly its best price in history for a limited time.Through August 22, Amazon has the NVIDIA Shield TV Stick on sale for just $129.99. Today's deal saves you $20 off its usual price of $150 and brings the device just $1 above the lowest it's ever reached there. You can also find this offer at Best Buy while supplies last.Powered by the NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor, the Shield TV is an Android TV streaming media player that's arguably the most powerful yet. Along with support for Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos surround sound, this device offers 4K video resolution with real-time AI upscali...

The best Galaxy Tab S7 screen protectors will ensure the beauty of your Samsung Galaxy Tab S7, a pretty sweet tablet with an 11-inch screen, refined S Pen, and bold new color options. However, while you want to show off the tablet's look, you also want to protect the device sufficiently. And along with a protective case, a screen protector will also prevent cracks and scratches. We've rounded up some great ones to consider.Strong and functionalSPARIN HD Tempered Glass -3-packStaff PickCompatible with the S Pen, this case is just 0.3mm thin and is touted to be three times stronger than your average plastic screen protector. Plus, it comes in a three-pack so you can share with the family or keep spares on hand.$13 at AmazonSuper slimBenazcap Tempered Glass Screen Protector – 2-packAt just 0.25mm, this ultra-slim case is one of the thinnest we've seen, offering super sensitivity to touch that won't impact the experience with your finger or S Pen. But it's also toug...

A future One UI update will remove ads from Samsung's stock apps.What you need to knowSamsung could soon stop displaying ads in its stock apps.The decision was reportedly announced by Samsung's mobile chief TM Roh during an online town hall meeting. Samsung began showing ads in some of its apps last year. In June last year, Samsung began showing ads within some of its apps like Samsung Music and Weather. Unsurprisingly, the move didn't go down well with Galaxy users and caused a lot of outrage. Fortunately, it looks like Samsung has finally decided to listen to its customers and remove ads from pre-installed apps on Galaxy phones and tablets.According to South Korean publication Maeil Business News, Samsung's mobile chief TM Roh announced during a town hall meeting earlier today that the company will soon remove ads from stock apps such as Samsung Pay, Weather, and Samsung Themes.The ads aren't just limited to budget Galaxy phones and tablets. They also appear on Samsun...

Aloy is back in action for the next generation.One of the biggest games revealed at the June 2020 PS5 showcase was Horizon Forbidden West. Developed by Guerrilla Games, this PlayStation title is bringing the custom Decima engine and everything it's capable of to next-generation hardware.Aloy returns as a protagonist, heading into the former western U.S. There are new threats, new machines, and new lush lands to explore. It's currently set to release at some point in 2021. Here's everything we know about Horizon Forbidden West on PS5 so far.Jump to:What is Horizon Forbidden West?Check out its trailersStory, gameplay, and featuresDoes it have multiplayer?Is it coming to PS4?Is it coming to PC?What we'd like to seeWhen does it release?What is Horizon Forbidden West?Horizon Forbidden West is a sequel to Guerrilla Games' Horizon Zero Dawn, released in 2017. It's an action role-playing game that takes place in the 31st century, in a world where humanity now exist...

Wi-Fi 6E is the next evolution of Wi-Fi, and some of the best Wi-Fi 6E routers are now available. Wi-Fi 6E utilizes 6GHz spectrum to enable more consistent speeds in congested areas than was possible at 5GHz. If you are ready for Wi-Fi 6E or just want to be ready for the next generation, these routers all offer great 6GHz performance. The best Wi-Fi 6E router for you will come down to backward compatibility and software preferences.What are the best Wi-Fi 6E routers?The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 is one of the fastest routers ever made, with plenty of speed for both Wi-Fi 6E devices and older devices. With full RGB lighting, this router's gaming roots are clear, but that also means this router is packing great optimization software and even comes with a gaming optimized 2.5Gbps Ethernet port.The Linksys Hydra Pro 6E is another solid option with a more modest design and a lower price. This AXE6600 router gives up some speed for older devices but supports a full 4804Mbps on the 6...

We have reviewed a bunch of VPN services and ExpressVPN is our top pick for just about everyone. It earned a full 5 stars in our review, we are constantly praising the customer service, speeds, reliability, and more multiples times, but all of that comes with a price. ExpressVPN is definitely one of the more expensive VPN services compared to its competitors, but you can still score a great deal if you know where to look.ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 servers that span across 160 different locations in 94 countries, so there's no shortage of options when you are looking to spoof your location. You can check all the locations and make sure that the one you want is available before signing up.Today's best ExpressVPN dealWhen it comes to VPN deals there is no shortage of great options out there. We've already covered all of the top VPN services that are out there, but just because something is great doesn't mean that you have to pay too much money for it. ExpressVPN may not be the c...

Ultra-fast Wi-Fi on both 5GHz and 6GHz.The Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is one of the fastest routers you can buy with an incredible AXE11000 tri-band Wi-Fi 6E connection. That's 4.8Gbps available for 5GHz devices, another 4.8Gbps for 6GHz devices, and 1.2Gbps for 2.4GHz devices. The big new feature of the RAXE500 compared to the AX11000 RAX200 is support for 6GHz with Wi-Fi 6E. This swaps out one of the 5GHz bands for a 6GHz band which operates at the same top speed but with a lot more elbow room.This router is designed to keep speeds as high as possible, even with a ton of congestion. There are a few other options for Wi-Fi 6E routers, including a couple from Linksys, a couple from Asus, and one in the pipeline from TP-Link, but the Netgear RAXE500 was one of the first out of the gate. While it had some teething issues, the newest software update smooths over many of them. Just make sure you bring a little patience along for the setup process.Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 review:...

There's a good chance that the feature may not be exclusive to Android 12 devices.What you need to knowGoogle has added a new way for users to control their phones with the latest Android Accessibility Suite update.The latest beta update for the Android Accessibility Suite app adds "Camera Switches" to the Switch Access accessibility service. With "Camera Switches," users can now control their Android phone with facial expressions. Google's Android Accessibility Suite app offers a wide range of accessibility tools that allow users with disabilities to easily access their device. The fourth Android 12 beta, which rolled out last week, includes a new beta version of the app.As spotted by XDA Developers, the beta version 12.0.0 of the Android Accessibility Suite app brings "Camera Switches" to Switch Access, which is one of the several accessibility services included in the app. With Switch Access, users can use an external device connected via USB or Bluetooth to interact w...

Best answer: Yes. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 models offer advanced sleep tracking. You'll receive valuable insight into your sleep patterns to help you improve sleep quality.Does the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 support sleep tracking?If you're thinking about buying the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, you'll be glad to know it offers detailed sleep tracking. While some wearables only offer the basics in this area, you'll have access to important details with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4's sleep tracking.This is one of many features that have the Galaxy Watch 4 on track to become one of the best Android smartwatches you can buy. Samsung says the improved sleep tracking on the Galaxy Watch 4 is designed to help users manage their overall sleep quality.As usual, your wearable will offer a full picture of your rest quality with a close look at your sleep patterns throughout the night. However, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is providing even greater detail this time around. Now, your compatible ...

Not all Wear OS watches are eligible for the new platform.When we first learned that Google and Samsung were merging to create Wear OS 3, the announcement was met with much excitement. Unfortunately, that excitement was quickly followed by a lot of unanswered questions and confusion. Considering that many of the best Android smartwatches rely on Wear OS, we were all left wondering which devices would be updating to the new platform.If you're already the proud owner of an existing Wear OS watch, you're probably eager to learn the fate of your device. While some current wearables will be eligible for the update, others will not. Those who are thinking about buying a smartwatch soon will also want to figure out which models will be eligible for the update so they can make the best choice possible.The only smartwatches currently running on Wear OS 3 are the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. Needless to say, Samsung has the upper hand in the wearable market for the foreseea...

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3Better in every wayFrom $1,800 at SamsungProsMore durable design120Hz panels both inside and outWorks with S PenHigh-end internal hardwareIPX8 water resistanceHole punch camera is covered by a grid of pixelsConsProhibitively costlySame rear cameras as Z Fold 2Under-display camera is questionable qualityThe Galaxy Z Fold 3 features a range of refinements that make it a desirable upgrade. Samsung is using a new plastic layer for the screen that feels like glass, the phone has IPX8 water resistance, and both the inner and outer screens now go up to 120Hz. And best of all, you can use the S Pen with the Z Fold 3, making it that much more useful as a productivity device.Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2Outmatched$2,000 at SamsungProsSimilar design as Z Fold 3High-end internalsDurable hingeDecent camerasConsNo water resistancePlastic screen coating gets scratchedOuter screen is 60HzCostlier than Z Fold 3The Galaxy Z Fold 2...

The earbuds are now available in 45 countries around the world.What you need to knowNothing's ear (1) wireless earbuds are finally available to purchase.They offer active noise cancellation, a 'transparent' design, and up to 34 hours of battery life. The earbuds are priced at $99 in the U.S., £99 in the U.K., and ₹5,999 in India. Nothing's ear (1) true wireless earbuds, which made their global debut last month, are finally up for sale. The earbuds are now on open sale in the U.S., U.K., and the rest of Europe.Nothing's first wireless earbuds have a truly unique design that makes them stand out. They are also packed to the gills with features, including active noise cancellation, Qi wireless charging, Fast Pairing, sweat and water splash resistance, as well as ultra-fast charging. When it comes to battery life, the ear (1) earbuds are claimed to provide up to 5.7 hours of listening time and up to 34 hours with the charging case.As our very own Harish Jonnalagadda note...

Synology Photos is the obvious choice if you're looking for a self-hosted Google Photos alternative.Over the course of the last five years, Google Photos has become the de facto solution for backing up photos and videos on Android. It came pre-installed on all Android phones and offered unlimited photo and video uploads at high quality. While Google optimized the images to bring down the file size, there wasn't any noticeable difference in quality from the original photos.But with Photos no longer offering unlimited photo uploads, there has been a renewed interest in seeking out other options. We've rounded up the best Google Photos alternatives, and while there are plenty of online services available, I went with the self-hosted option.I already talked about how a NAS is the best offline Google Photos alternative as it seamlessly backs up your photos and videos and ensures you have full control over your data. Of course, you will need a network-attached storage enclosure to us...

As of August 2021, all new apps must be submitted to Google using the Android App Bundle format.Back in 2018, Google introduced a new way to upload apps into Google Play: the Android App Bundle. Fast forward to August 2021, and it's now a requirement that all new applications submitted to Google use the format.Unless you're a developer, you probably won't see any changes. We'll talk about how everything works and discuss the pros and cons of the move, but really there is nothing lost or gained for most users of the best Android phones. "Most" being the key word here — if you're on a data plan with a low cap or have a very slow connection, you will have slightly smaller downloads when you install an app.Smaller downloads and shorter download times are great when they make a difference, so that's good to hear. Let's take a look at everything you need to know about Android App bundles.What is the .aab format?The extension .aab stands for (you guessed it) Android App Bund...

Disney Plus is not just home to Star Wars, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and all your Pixar favorites, but educational entertainment like National Geographic and storied series like The Simpsons. Oh, and all the Disney movies and TV shows you could ever want to watch. Available in over a dozen countries — with more on the way — Disney has finally given us an all-in-one destination we Disney fans have been waiting almost two decades for. Welcome to Disney Plus (Disney+).A Guide to Disney+What is Disney Plus?Where is Disney Plus available now?What devices support Disney Plus?What shows and movies are on Disney PlusWhat is Premier Access on Disney Plus?Parental controls, profiles, and account limitsDisney Plus tips, tricks & moreWhat is the best Disney Plus deal?How does Disney Plus compare to Netflix and others?A magical streaming serviceDisney+See latest pricing at Disney+All your Disney favorites, and so much moreFrom DCOMs to National Geographi...

The upcoming fitness tracker may offer a huge design upgrade from its predecessor.What you need to knowNew purported renders of the Fitbit Charge 5 have emerged online.The images suggest a new design for the upcoming fitness tracker with a color screen and rounded body.The Charge 5 could be announced on October 23.Late last month, a render of an upcoming Fitbit tracker believed to be the Fitbit Charge 5 leaked with a color display and rounded corners. Now, a fresh set of renders surfaced online, suggesting a significant upgrade from the Fitbit Charge 4 in terms of design at least.Courtesy of renowned leaker Evan Blass, the new renders showcase a design that borrows heavily from the Fitbit Luxe with a color screen and curved body. It's quite similar to the previous leak on that front, although the latest images suggest the upcoming fitness tracker will have capacitive controls on either side of the wearable device, which could allow users to navigate the tracker's settings...

Motorola proves it hasn't forgotten the 4G Razr, despite quickly moving on.What you need to knowMotorola rolls out the Android 11 update for the Razr.The update arrives with the July 2021 security patch.Android 11 on the Razr brings familiar features like Chat Bubbles and improved privacy settings.The few who may be holding on to the first-Gen Motorola Razr finally have a reason to rejoice, thanks to the arrival of the Android 11 update.According to Verizon, the update began rolling out to users on Friday and brings many Android 11 goodies such as Chat Bubbles, privacy enhancements, and Google's power menu for smart home controls.The update comes a few months after it was spotted rolling out to the newer Motorola Razr 5G, but nearly a year after its initial release. Motorola might be forgiven if Android 12 wasn't already well on the way in the next month or so. Additionally, the original Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, its closest competitor, received the update at the top of th...

It's a bit clearer about what it does and doesn't do.What you need to knowAn updated Incognito Mode new tab page has appeared in Chrome Canary.The new page changes the language to tell you what it does and doesn't do.The change comes amid a lawsuit regarding the unclear nature of Incognito mode.Google is giving the Incognito mode landing page an update on Chrome after a lawsuit was recently filed over the feature.The change was first spotted by Techdows (via 9to5Google) and features new text that clearly lays out the capabilities of browsing Incognito. There are two sections; "What Incognito does" and "What Incognito doesn't do." The text in the latter section appears to more clearly describe the limits of browsing Incognito on Chrome. Most notably, while you can make your searches invisible with Incognito mode, that only applies to on-device browser history. Incognito does not make you invisible online: Sites know when you visit them Employers or schools ca...

Not all smart lights are created equal. Thankfully, SmartThings has the ability to work with an extremely wide variety of smart bulbs, leaving you with many options. On the flip side, it might be hard to dig deep and find the right light for you. We've done the legwork and found the best smart lights for Samsung SmartThings.Top pickElement Classic 60W Equivalent Soft White A19 Dimmable LED Light BulbStaff PickA stellar combination of quality and price, the Sengled Classic A19 bulb not only works amazingly well with SmartThings but will last for years to come.$10 at Amazon $10 at Best Buy $10 at Home DepotFan favoriteCree Connected LED Smart BulbThis bulb is right up there with our top pick. It's affordable and will save you on energy by lasting for up to 22 years. Yes, you read that correctly, 22 years.$6 at AmazonName brandSYLVANIA Wi-Fi Smart Light BulbSylvania has been a household name for years, and they're still going strong in the connected home. T...

As many of us who've been suddenly forced to work from home or attend online classes have come to discover over the past year, having a reliable high-speed internet connection where you live is extremely important. Even if you're not taking tests or in business meetings, it really helps to have speed on your side whether you're streaming a movie, playing a game online, or even shopping for concert tickets. If you're ready to change how you use the internet for the better, this latest deal at Verizon Fios offers the perfect opportunity.New Fios customers can get an entire year of AMC+ for free when signing up for one of the new Mix & Match Home Internet Plans at Fios starting at just $39.99 per month, though the deal doesn't simply end there. Verizon is also throwing in bonuses like a free Samsung Chromebook 4 or a free Galaxy Tab A7 depending on the plan you choose. Plus, if you're already a Verizon Wireless customer, you'll save an extra $20 every month.Free AMC+ subscript...

Let's try this againOriginal July 27 article updated with pricing and global availability information.What you need to knowZTE has announced the Axon 30 in July with an initial release in China.This marks the second attempt at integrating an under-display selfie camera.Global launch is set for September 9, starting at $499 for U.S. buyers.The new ZTE Axon 30 5G was announced in July, introducing the second iteration of ZTE's under-display selfie camera technology. The first attempt came via the ZTE Axon 20, which marked the first smartphone release to include such a feature.Before diving too deep into this new selfie camera, let's run down the specs. The Axon 30 sports a 6.92-inch AMOLED display, along with a 120Hz refresh rate and a FullHD (1920 x 1080) resolution. Powering ZTE's latest handset is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870, which means that its a step down from the Axon 30 Ultra, which launched earlier in the year.The chipset is being paired with 6GB, 8GB, or 12G...

As high-end phones get more expensive, awesome budget Android phones are getting better. We've researched and ranked all of the best cheap Android phones you can buy, and with our buyer's guide, you'll find the perfect phone for you.What are the best cheap Android phones?Last year was tremendous for Android phones in the budget space, and as we make our way through 2021, we expect more of the same. You're seeing features like multiple cameras, faster processors, and 5G hit price points that would have been unheard of just a couple of years ago. Even though it pushes the limits of what a "budget" device is, we recommend the Google Pixel 4a as the best cheap Android phone because it hits the right balance of performance, camera quality, and battery life, with a clean build of Android that you're sure to love. Indeed, the Pixel 4a's camera is nearly identical to its much more expensive Pixel 5 counterpart, and performance and battery life don't disappoint, either.Further down the li...

These days, Oculus Quest 2 owners who want to play PC VR games on their headsets have many options. Oculus Air Link is built into the headset and supports 120Hz refresh rates, while Virtual Desktop also lets you play PC VR games on Quest. But if you don't have a fast Wi-Fi network or a PC that can't keep up with the network speed needed for wireless PC VR, an Oculus Link Cable is the next best thing. You can't just hook any cable up, though. You need one that's both long enough to allow you to move freely and one that's fast enough to handle all the streaming data that PC VR requires. Here are our personal favorites, the Oculus community's top picks, and Oculus's official Link alternatives.Skip the cable altogetherVirtual DesktopStaff PickBefore Air Link, Virtual Desktop gave Oculus Quest superusers a way to sideload PC VR games without any cable. Now, Oculus offers wireless streaming for free with similar performance levels, making the paid Virtual Desktop less unique. B...

Technology has come a long way since flip phones. These days, devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Motorola Razr truly put the years past in perspective. They can be folded to keep them pocket-sized yet when unfolded, they allow for more screen real estate than most other smartphones on the market. It's been quite a while since the last major innovation in mobile devices brought us full touchscreen devices; now, folding phones are making the next big leap with displays that seem like they belong only in the future.Best Folding Phone Deals Available NowUnlocked Deals: starting at $500Carrier deals: Trade-ins, BOGO & more Which to buy?Microsoft Surface Duo | Over 50% off at MicrosoftMicrosoft is offering over $700 off the Microsoft Surface Duo for a limited time. You can choose between the 128GB model for $649.99 and the 256GB model for $699.99. Only the unlocked devices are priced this low and only while supplies last.from $649.99 at MicrosoftTh...

Direct touch controls available for Android at launch, with iOS coming soon.What you need to knowHumankind will feature Stadia's State Share feature known as 'Leave Your Mark.'Leave Your Mark allows friends to play your game world through a screenshot or video clip.The game will be the first to feature direct touch controls as an alternative to a touch gamepad overlay.The Stadia version of Sega and Amplitude Studios' 4X strategy game Humankind will support the State Share feature and offer direct touch controls for Android users when it launches this week.The State Share feature is known as 'Leave Your Mark' within the game and allows friends to compete against your accomplishments from your game world through a shared screenshot or video clip. The Mark gives players the ability to explore Memories Events, complete challenges, and discover Archeology Sites for bonuses and special events.Humankind, which is looking to be one of the best Stadia games of 2021, will also be...

The Galaxy Z Fold 3 should be much more battery efficient than its predecessor.What you need to knowSamsung unveils its Eco² OLED display tech used in the Galaxy Z Fold 3.The display is said to consume 25% less power than a traditional OLED.The increase in light enabled Samsung to implement its under-display camera.Last week, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 with display resolution and sizes similar to their predecessors. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 has a new display technology, which Samsung claims is more power-efficient than a traditional OLED.The new Eco² OLED showcases Samsung's new method of developing OLED displays, which throws out the need for an external polarizer. Normally, this is needed to help reflect light entering the panel and provide a clearer picture. However, it's a double-edged sword in that it also blocks some of the light coming from the OLED display, making it less efficient.With Eco² OLED, Samsung can implement a new ...

Best answer: PUBG: New State's first alpha test ended on June 14. The developers have promised multiple alpha tests leading up to the game's release, with the next test coming on Aug. 27 for select regions.Try before you diePUBG: New State is the true sequel to PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, the first major battle royale game. While PUBG Mobile remains one of the most popular Android games available, PUBG: New State plans on improving the game in every regard, from its upgraded graphics engine to new mechanics introduced, including dodges, drone calls, and support requests. The game also has a futuristic setting, taking place in the year 2051.Amusingly, it's not the farthest-out the PUBG universe is going, as upcoming horror game The Callisto Protocol is taking place in 2320.In order to ensure that the developers meet the fan's expectations, a limited alpha took place, giving players a hands-on look at the new map, Troi 2051. But for those who missed it, one question remains ...

Samsung is also offering complimentary UV-C sanitization for Galaxy devices with its Door-to-Door repair service.What you need to knowSamsung Canada has introduced a new online portal for Galaxy users.The new "Your Service" portal allows users to easily schedule a door-to-door repair, get technical help from Samsung experts, and track the status of a device in transit.It is available for both In and Out-of-Warranty Galaxy users. Samsung Canada today announced the launch of a new "Your Service" repair portal for Galaxy users. The company says the new portal will "help extend the service and support offerings of its convenient Door-to-Door and walk-in repair services."Frank Martino, Vice President Corporate Service at Samsung Canada, said in a statement: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift away from in-person services, and while initially a temporary change, positive elements of the 'new normal' such as added convenience and efficiency can continue to benefit our...

Looking to save even more money on Mint Mobile? Here are the current deals and promo codes to help!Finding a Mint Mobile deal or Mint Mobile coupon has never really been a hard task. The MVNO carrier loves to have some fun with promotions, and we like to keep track of them. There are quite a few options when it comes to carriers for your smartphone, and odds are you're shopping around for the best deal. Postpaid plans are a good option for some, but prepaid plans get you the lowest price, as long as you're willing to put your money down first.Mint Mobile is an alternative carrier that uses T-Mobile's 5G and 4G LTE network to bring you great coverage at an even more affordable price. In the past, going prepaid with an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) often meant that you sacrificed a lot when it came to your plan, but that isn't the case anymore. With Mint Mobile you can pick data allotments of 4GB, 10GB, 15GB, or even go unlimited depending on your usage habits, and all of ...

Mint Mobile is all about offering great service for a fraction of the price compared to other big carriers. For many, that philosophy also extends to the phone they choose. Thankfully, tons of great Android phones embody the same idea: getting a great experience with the latest specs and features while not paying top dollar for it. The best example of this is the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, which offers a flagship-like experience for less than direct competition. It's a great phone to pair with the solid-but-inexpensive Mint Mobile service. Here are our top picks for the best phones to use with Mint Mobile.Best Overall Phone for Mint Mobile: Samsung Galaxy S20 FEThe Galaxy S20 FE is a device that caught us off guard in the best way possible. Samsung set out to create a flagship-like device, sell it at an amazing price, and the result is one of the very best Android phones you can buy today. That idea of getting more for your money lines up perfectly with Mint Mobile, making the S20 ...

More robustSamsung S Pen Pro$100 at SamsungProsBluetooth enabledCan be located with Samsung SmartThingsCompatible with any S Pen-enabled deviceCapable of using Air ActionsConsExpensiveNeeds to be re-chargedIf you want the best S Pen ever made, along with more features than you'll ever use, then the S Pen Pro is the way to go. It features built-in Bluetooth and works with all of Samsung's devices that include S Pen support.For the FoldSamsung S Pen Fold Edition$50 at SamsungProsLess expensiveLighter and shorterNo need to chargeCan be used with Air CommandsIncluded with S Pen Folio CoverConsOnly works with the Galaxy Z Fold 3Unable to use Air ActionsWIth the S Pen Fold Edition, you'll be missing out on a few features such as Air Actions. But without a built-in Bluetooth chip, this means you won't have to worry about keeping it charged. Plus it's been specifically designed for the Galaxy Z Fold 3.Despite being announced alon...

The Pixel 5a might pack a bigger battery than any previous Pixel phone.What you need to knowA bunch of images showing Pixel 5a components have leaked online.They suggest the upcoming phone will be nearly identical to the Pixel 4a 5G in terms of design.The latest leak also claims the Pixel 5a 5G will be announced on August 17.Earlier this month, leaker Jon Prosser claimed that the Google Pixel 5a will be released on August 26 for $449. A few more details about the Pixel 4a successor have now surfaced, courtesy of Android Police. The publication has managed to get its hands on a few images of Pixel 5a components that Google is sending out to phone repair stores ahead of its announcement. Unsurprisingly, the images reveal a design that looks pretty much identical to last year's Pixel 4a 5G. The only significant difference appears to be the presence of a ribbed power button. The source of these images also told Android Police that the phone's back actually feels "a litt...

Works like a laptopSamsung Galaxy Tab S7 FEFrom $530 at SamsungProsLarge, high resolution displayComes with an S PenUse like a laptop with accessoriesAffordable tablet optionConsMight be more than you needThe Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE is a great tablet for serious professionals and students who want a tablet that can function like a laptop, and even as a potential laptop replacement. Plus, it is available at a really affordable price that's impressive given its stellar feature set.Mobility on the goSamsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5GFrom $670 at SamsungProsLarge, high-resolution displayComes with an S-PenUse like a laptop with accessoriesConvenient 5G connection when neededConsNeed a plan to use 5GMuch more expensiveMight be more than you needThe Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G is effectively the exact same tablet as the Galaxy Tab S7 FE, but with the addition of 5G connectivity. With an optional mobile carrier plan, this means you can ensur...

The existing form factor carries the day — for now.What you need to knowOver the weekend, we polled AC readers to see if the Galaxy Z Fold 3 or Z Flip 3 announcement (re)ignited their interest in foldables.The majority of respondents said they would stick with more traditional form factors.Even though more people said they weren't interested in foldables than those who were curious about one or the other device, the answers were actually quite close.The big buzz over the past week has been about the newest upgrades to Samsung's smartphone lineup — specifically, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3. Reviews of both devices are still forthcoming, but the tech world is already fawning over the upgrades, iterations, and enhancements that make each the class of the premium Android phone space.Nearly 39% of poll respondents said they'd prefer to stay with more conventional form factors (even like the Galaxy Note series). However, when you combine the responses of those w...

PlayStation VR is increasingly becoming a larger platform, especially with the impending PS5 VR release. But no matter where you play your VR games, whether they be on PS4 or PS5, you're in for an incredible experience. With PlayStation unleashing new games almost every month, it's hard not to be overwhelmed by what's out there. Here are some of the unreleased VR games slated to hit PSVR in the coming months. We look forward to adding some titles to our best PlayStation VR games list, and we hope some of these catch your eye, too.Jump to:FrackedAfter the FallArashi: Castles of SinI Expect You To Die 2Puzzling PlacesSong in the SmokeStrideZenithWandererPuzzle Bobble 3D: Vacation OdysseyFrackedHigh-octane, explosive action awaits you in Fracked, a first-person VR title built exclusively for Sony's headset. Fracked touts "relentless 'run-and-cover' gunfights with free and fluid skiing and climbing," according to its developer. You're stuck inside of a fracking...

The BBC is famed for producing critically acclaimed television content loved by millions. And you can watch many of the British broadcaster's greatest TV shows, movies, and more on its official streaming platform: iPlayer.BBC iPlayer has content for pretty much everyone, from dramas to documentaries. Some of its best shows include Doctor Who, Fleabag, Rupaul's Drag Race UK, Our Girl, Eastenders, Line of Duty, Call the Midwife, Killing Eve, Gavin & Stacey, Louis Theroux, Merlin, and lots more.Best BBC iPlayer VPNs 20211. NordVPN (From $3.67/mo)2. ExpressVPN (From $6.67/mo)3. Surfshark VPN (From $2.49/mo)4. Hotspot Shield VPN (From $2.49/mo)5. VyprVPN (From $1.67/mo)6. ProtonVPN (From $6.63/mo)1. NordVPN: The best BBC iPlayer VPNFrom $3.67/mo at NordVPNNordVPN is one of the most common and biggest names in the VPN space, and it also happens to be one of the best — especially for BBC iPlayer with its variety of UK servers.2. ExpressVPN: A very reli...

With all the gadgets and devices we own today, we want to protect them from any surges or spikes that may occur. Unfortunately, electronic devices can be expensive to replace, so why not purchase a middleman to absorb any extra charge that may pass through the circuit? You can get a standard surge protector, but if you want to get something that's connected so it can be part of your overall smart home, we've rounded up a bunch of the best smart surge protectors that offer more than just surge protection.Independent controlKasa Smart Plug Power Strip HS300Staff PickThe Kasa Smart Power Strip has six outlets and three USB ports. You can control each of the six outlets independently with the Kasa Smart App. You can even set a time for when an outlet turns on or off. Voice commands can be used with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Microsoft Cortana to control any device connected to the power strip.$50 at Amazon $80 at Best Buy $50 at B&H PhotoOne-half smartAPC Smart...

The phone touts a touch latency of just 24.0ms.What you need to knowASUS has announced two new ROG gaming phones.The ROG Phone 5S and ROG Phone 5S Pro feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 888 Plus chipset.ASUS hasn't yet revealed the pricing and availability of the new phones. Back in March, ASUS took the wraps off the ROG Phone 5, a direct successor to last year's ROG Phone 3. Just five months later, the company has unveiled a brand new ROG Phone 5S to succeed the ROG Phone 5.The ROG Phone 5S and ROG Phone 5S Pro phones are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 888 Plus chipset, which is marginally faster than the Snapdragon 888 chipset inside the ROG Phone 5 series. Aside from the newer Snapdragon 888 Plus, the ROG Phone 5S series phones also come with the same 360Hz touch response rate as the best gaming phones, resulting in a touchscreen latency of just 24.0ms.The rest of the key tech specs of the new ROG Phone 5S and 5S Pro are identical to their predecessors. Both phones sp...

These Google Calendar tips and tricks will smarten up your daily itinerary from custom views to hidden settings.Google Calendar sits at the center of so many other Google productivity apps, from Google Keep and Google Tasks to Gmail and Google Meet. They all integrate into your Calendar, and keeping it up-to-date and organized is the key to staying on top of your work schedule.While it's easy to use without much guidance, Google Calendar has plenty of hidden depths that make it much more effective — that's why it tops our list of the best calendar apps for Android. Whether you prefer the mobile app or the browser-based version, we have plenty of Google Calendar tips and tricks that apply to either or both. From keyboard shortcuts to add-ons and integrations, here are our favorite obscure tools to master Google Calendar.Jump to:The basicsBest setting changesCalendar subscriptionsEmailed daily agendaKeyboard shortcutsAdd-ons and extensionsAutomatic calendar eventsCu...

Keep your folding phones and give me that wonderful watch.Samsung Unpacked has come and gone, dropping the next generation of foldable phones on us, but like most of you, $1,000 to $1,800 is still too rich for my blood — no matter how awesome and pocket-friendly the Galaxy Z Flip might be.No, what I was waiting for with bated breath and an open wallet was the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, because it combined the two halves of my ideal smartwatch experience: stupendous hardware with a slim, easy-to-sleep-in design, plus the convenience of my Google apps and all my notifications on my wrist.Since last Wednesday, as more information gets sought out and more people start spending actual time with these watches, the news has been lukewarm at best. Apps are missing, and compatibility issues are hidden in the fine print. Still, I couldn't snap up my preorder fast enough, and I'm not alone in my Galaxy Watch 4 excitement.Here are the big drawbacks around the Galaxy Watch 4 series, an...

Hackers are apparently selling the stolen data on an underground forum.What you need to knowT-Mobile is investigating a post on an online forum that claims hackers have obtained personal data of over 100 million users from its servers.The breached data allegedly includes the users' names, phone numbers, social security numbers, addresses, driver licenses information, and more.The seller on the underground online forum is asking for 6 bitcons (around $270,000) for a subset of the data. A new data breach may have exposed the personal data of more than 100 million T-Mobile customers, according to Motherboard. T-Mobile, which has one the best 5G networks in the US, confirmed to the publication that it is currently investigating the claim made on an underground forum.The data, which is is said to contain highly sensitive information such as the users' phone numbers, social security numbers, names, unique IMEI numbers, physical addresses, as well as driver licenses information...

The new Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 are the latest folding phones from Samsung. From the looks of it, these phones should do well to keep Samsung at the top of the best folding phone list for a while. However, these are expensive phones, and keeping them protected is a priority to keep your investment safe. Samsung knows this and offers some tremendous first-party Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 cases and accessories.Galaxy Z Fold 3 Cases and AccessoriesFits the moldSilicone CoverSamsung's Silicone Cover is an excellent everyday case option for your new Galaxy Z Fold 3. It's been meticulously molded to fit the phone perfectly so it offers excellent protection, grip, and fit. Plus, it will help protect both the front and back of the phone. You can get the Silicone Cover in white, black, and green.$40 at SamsungStanding for attentionLeather Flip Stand CoverThe Leather Flip Stand Cover is crafted from high-quality leather to perfectly fit your Galaxy Z Fol...

It's also testing end-to-end encryption for Messenger group chats and calls as well as Instagram DMs.What you need to knowFacebook Messenger has rolled out end-to-end encryption for voice and video calls.It plans to test the same security feature for group chats and calls in Messenger.Facebook has also updated its expiring message feature with more options for setting the time before your chat disappears.Facebook started testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for voice and video calls on Messenger in late 2019, although it did not confirm at the time as to when it would publicly introduce the feature. Now, that chat mode is rolling out to more users.The release means that anyone but you and the receiver won't be able to eavesdrop on your calls made through Messenger. Facebook has rolled out E2EE amid growing interest in voice and video calls, with more than 150 million calls on Messenger taking place every day over the past 12 months. It also comes as governments worldwide ...

Android 12 is bringing a pretty big change to users and developers with approximate location for individual apps on your Android phone. Previously, when granting location access, you could only allow a system-wide setting. From there, you could change the setting on an individual basis, but it required digging into the phone's settings.Generally, the difference is a precise location that puts you within a few meters of your actual location, while a coarse location is more like within a few hundred meters. We have an explainer for the difference between a coarse location setting and a precise location here. It also gives you a little more technical detail about what's happening and what's being used.The ability to set your location precision is important because not all apps need to know where you are down to the meter. Apps like Google Maps, Geocaching, and Pokemon Go require a precise location to tell you where you are and where to go. Others like weather or shopping apps don't ...

See where you've traveled with Google Maps.Google Maps has a nifty Timeline feature that lets you browse the places you've visited along with the routes traveled. The Timeline received a good overhaul in 2015, and Google has since added the ability to collate images you've taken at particular locations, allowing you to get a better overview of all your travels. This feature certainly comes in handy if you're looking to see all the images you took at a particular location or if you're trying to get a highlight of your weekly or monthly activities. Here's how to view your location history in Google Maps.How to view your location history in Google MapsHow to disable location trackingHow to view your location history in Google MapsLaunch Google Maps.Tap your profile picture on the top right corner.Tap Your Timeline.Tap Today to open the calendar and view a particular day.Swipe left or right to switch months. Tap a date to view your location history. You'll see the ro...

If you're considering an activity tracker for a young child, the Fitbit Ace 3 is my hands-down favorite. As the best fitness tracker for kids, the Ace 3 is a pretty simple band that packs a lot of features, including tracking kids' daily steps and active minutes as well as detailed sleep. On the device, kids can play around with a timer, stopwatch, do not disturb, and even water lock. The app, however, is where the magic happens. Parents can set daily step and sleep goals for kids, send them reminders to move, and change the clock face.Animated faces to motivate your little oneWhat makes the Fitbit Ace 3 really cool, and my son's choice when comparing the Fitbit Ace 3 vs. Fitbit Ace 2, is that there are more than two-dozen animated clock faces to choose from. Each also comes to life and changes in different ways as kids work toward achieving their step goals.One of the latest additions is Minions, which displays a cute Minions character along with the date and time. As the chil...

Love never grows old, and Old Friends Dog Game keeps these dogs forever alive in our hearts.Everybody thinks their dog is the best dog, but they're all right. All of the dogs at Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary may be living out their retirement at their lifetime home in Tennessee, but they've collectively stolen the hearts of millions online. They are, without a doubt, the best dogs, and this lovable group has been immortalized in Old Friends Dog Game by developer Runaway Play.Old Friends Dog Game is a relaxing simulation game that allows players to run their very own senior dog sanctuary, complete with digital doggos based on their real-life counterparts, and forge bonds with them as they learn to trust. In a time where the world is looking pretty dark, this is exactly the kind of game that people need right now.You'll start off by welcoming Mack to the sanctuary, one of the blind residents who acts as its mascot. By feeding him, giving him belly rubs, and playing with him,...

Android 12 is drifting ever closer to its final release on Pixel phones, with beta 4 available now.Android 11 made significant improvements to Google's mobile OS, adding tools like chat bubbles, conversation notifications, and a built-in screen recorder. But most of its improvements were in the backend, making it rather unexciting compared to iOS 14's flashy changes. This year, it's Android 12 that's making a flashy entrance.Labeled by Google as "the biggest design change in Android's history," Android 12 has a colorful redesign called Material You. The new OS customizes and enlivens your phone screen without needing an Android launcher or icon pack. Beyond that, Android 12 will add quality-of-life improvements like a Privacy Dashboard, scrollable screenshots, faster animations, smarter notifications, and tons of other long-requested features.Android 12 should arrive in about a month, at least on some of the best Android phones, including all Google Pixel phones. It's curre...

Ten years on from the Galaxy Nexus, do we have another Samsung-made Google phone? Not so fast.It sure looks like Samsung will be making the main camera sensor in the upcoming Google Pixel 6 series. Recent code-digging in the Android 12 beta Google camera app has unearthed references to the Samsung ISOCELL GN1, which would be the largest sensor we've seen in a Pixel by some margin — all the better to pull crisp, clear shots out of lower-light scenes, and feed ever more data to Google's HDR+ algorithms.If true, the GN1 wouldn't be alone. Between the recent news that Samsung will manufacture Google's new Tensor processor and that the Pixel 6 will use a Samsung Exynos 5G modem, it sure looks like there's a lot of Samsung in Google's upcoming flagship phones. And that's led some to speculate whether the Pixel 6 is largely a Samsung flagship with Google branding. Quite a lot of the Pixel 6's components will probably have come out of a Samsung factory.Aside from the SoC (includ...