Latest from Android Central

Nova 7 completely rewrites the launcher, so the team took the time to get it right.What you need to knowAfter seven months of beta testing through Discord, Nova 7 is rolling out to beta testers in Google Play.Nova Launcher 7 is a complete rewrite of the launcher's code and features.To try the beta, you need to join the Discord channel to provide feedback, then opt-in through Google Play.Nova Launcher has been one of the best Android launchers since the days when Google Play was still called Android Market, but it hasn't retained its king of the mountain status by resting on its laurels. While competitors like Action Launcher and Smart Launcher 5 has released major overhauls in recent years Nova has been biding its time, waiting for the right moment to tear it all down and rewrite the launcher with a new codebase and improved features.That moment arrived at the beginning of the year as Nova Launcher announced that it was writing and testing Nova Launcher 7, a complete rewr...

As you were, players.[Update, July 22 (1:10 pm ET)]: Added new information from Akamai on a fix for the outage.Update, July 22 (2:15 pm ET): PlayStation Support shows network back online after Akamai fix.What you need to knowPlayStation Network appears to be down for many users.The outage has spiked on DownDetector.PlayStation Support has officially confirmed that there are multiple issues right now.Games like Apex Legends, Call of Duty, and Genshin Impact appear to be impacted by a larger outage as well.As of 2:15 pm ET, services should be back online.If you're having trouble accessing PSN (PlayStation Network) right now on your PS4 or PS5, you're not alone. Many users are reporting problems accessing the service, or running into errors even if they are able to connect. Per DownDetector, there's been a massive surge in reported problems recently. PlayStation Support initially was not reporting any problems however, the site now confirms that there's an ongoing outage ...

Heating and cooling are the single biggest factors of your monthly energy bill, so it makes sense for most people to consider picking up one of the best smart thermostats to better manage the temperature of your home. The Nest Thermostat E is the best overall option, with a sleek circular design and automated schedule creation based on your habits.Best overall: Nest Thermostat EAs our glowing Nest Thermostat E review explains, this smart thermostat is easily one of the best smart home choices you can make. It's got all the same features as its big brother, the Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 3), but without the extra price tag. Many power companies even offer the Nest Thermostat E for a lower price through special local programs, so be sure to call and ask!Nest's famous brand of automatic scheduling based on local weather conditions, season, type of HVAC unit, and even local ordinances and programs make it one of the most effortless smart home devices on the market. It also wor...

Making the move that it should have at the beginningWhat you need to knowOnePlus confirms it is working on a new toggle for its "optimized mode" in response to app throttling in OxygenOS 11.This new feature won't arrive until the release of OxygenOS 12, which is based on Android 12 and coming this Fall.The app throttling "issues" are likely present on the OnePlus 9R along with the OnePlus Nord 2.For the past two weeks, OnePlus has been under fire after it was discovered to be throttling the performance of the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro. But now, the company is said to be working on integrating a toggle for its "optimized" mode when OxygenOS 12 arrives later this year.The problems began after a report was published, revealing that OnePlus was intentionally throttling certain apps in an effort to increase battery life. When trying to run traditional benchmarks through Geekbench, the "problem" didn't reveal itself. Instead, it wasn't until you tried to run browser-based benchmarks ...

Ragnarok is coming.During the Sept. 2020 PS5 games showcase, a sequel to the 2018 God of War was announced through a quick teaser as the "here's one more thing" moment to close the show. I was so excited I could barely comprehend anything that happened afterward, as my coworkers can attest.In order to keep things simple we're referring to it as God of War 2 here, as Sony has not given an official title for the game yet. When the actual title is confirmed, we'll be sure to update this page. In the meantime, here's everything we know about the untitled God of War 2 so far.Jump to:What is God of War 2?Wait, it's not called Ragnarok?What's the story?Is it a PS5 exclusive?When is the release date?What is God of War 2?God of War 2 is a sequel to the 2018 entry in the God of War franchise being developed by Sony Santa Monica, one of the most revered developers at Sony Worldwide Studios. That title served as a kind of spiritual reboot, with Kratos forced to suffer sil...

Smart lights are a staple of any smart home, and the options are seemingly endless, even when looking for the best lights that support Google Assistant. They're functional, energy-efficient, and can be a lot of fun to use, so why not hook it up to your favorite smart assistant? If you want some help narrowing down some of the top Google Assistant-equipped lights and smart LED light bulbs, these are our top recommendations.Colorful starter kitPhilips Hue Multicolor A19 Starter KitStaff PickThis starter kit for Philips Hue is expensive, but it's one of the best ones you can buy. Included here are the necessary hub and four A19 bulbs that all support over 16 million colors. You can have all the bulbs emit the same color or have each one do its own thing. Philips advertises 25,000 hours of use per bulb, and of course, they work beautifully with Google Assistant.$180 at Amazon$150 at Best BuyTake it anywherePhilips Hue Go White and Color Portable Dimmable LEDPhi...

It has been on sale in Europe and Latin America since March.What you need to knowMotorola has quietly launched the Moto G100 in the U.S.The phone made its global debut in March. It comes with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 870 processor, a 64MP camera, and a "business-grade security." Back in January, Motorola announced the world's first phone with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 870 processor, dubbed the Edge S. While it was initially limited to China, the phone made its global debut as the Moto G100 in March to take on the best Android phones in the mid-range segment. Nearly four months later, Motorola has finally launched the phone in North America.The Moto G100 is now available as a GSM Unlocked device from Motorola for $500. It is compatible with both AT&T and T-Mobile, but the phone supports sub-6GHz 5G only on T-Mobile's network.Motorola's "flagship" Moto G phone sports a 6.7-inch FHD+ LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and HDR10 compliance. It has a Snapdragon 870 5G chipset...

Try out new Android Auto features first.What you need to knowGoogle is launching a beta program for Android Auto.The program allows beta testers to try out upcoming features before they're released to everyone.Google recently rolled out on-screen games for Android Auto users.Google is no stranger to beta testing apps, and the latest beta program gives Android Auto users the chance to try out new features before they're released publicly.Google's new Android Auto beta program launches today, and AA users can sign up now to join. The company says that the program will help shape future Android Auto releases. You can test how well new features work with your specific phone and vehicle in your part of the world. When you share your feedback, we'll use it to help plan improvements for future releases.Anyone interested in the program can sign up on the opt-in page and select "Become a tester." Once you sign up, you can then head over to the Play Store on any of the best ...

Time to get seriousGarmin Forerunner 55$200 at AmazonProsBuilt-in GPSHeart-rate monitoringUp to 2 weeks of battery lifeAdvanced running featuresNew activity profilesConsOnly one size optionLackluster designIf you're a passionate runner who's seeking a watch that will help you track your progress, you'll appreciate what the Garmin Forerunner 55 has to offer. You get superior battery life, advanced running features, onboard GPS, heart-rate monitoring, activity/sleep tracking, and much more.Casual and stylish trackingGarmin Vivoactive 4$309 at AmazonProsBuilt-in GPSHeart-rate monitoringBlood oxygen trackingMusic storage & Garmin PayTwo size optionsConsMore expensiveShorter battery lifeThose who aren't overly serious about their health/fitness tracking might prefer a more casual (and stylish) watch like the Garmin Vivoactive 4. It comes in two sizes and offers good battery life. You even get some cool extras to round out your ...

Great new features without much of a camera upgrade.If you're looking for a spotlight that can do quite a bit more than just light up, Ring has long made one of the best outdoor security cameras. However, the original Ring Floodlight Cam launched well over 3 years ago and has been due for an upgrade. That upgrade now comes in the form of the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro, a product name with a convoluted name but, as our Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro review shows, is simple to use.The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro packs in the same 3D motion features as the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, but with the added bonus of having two giant LED spotlights built into its frame. These lights are bright, and the camera packs in an unbelievably loud 110dB siren that can be sounded automatically when motion is detected or manually through the Ring app whenever you'd like.The new 3D motion detection is even more useful in this form factor when compared to the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, as it has ...

Best answer: Genshin Impact does not have built-in voice chat on any platform. While there is a text chat option, those wishing to play across systems and use voice chat will need to use third-party software like Discord.Why doesn't Genshin Impact have voice chat?Developer miHoYo hasn't come out and stated one way or another why Genshin Impact doesn't have built-in voice chat; we just know that it doesn't. What it does have is a text chat system so that you can send text messages to other players online and you can also set up private text chats with friends.What can I use to voice chat in Genshin Impact?Unless you're using the PS4 or PS5's party system to chat with your friends, your best bet is to use a service like Discord. You can chat across mobile and PC through its app or browser, and it's a free download. There are always other options out there like Google Meet and Zoom, but Discord is by far the king here when it comes to gaming.Does Genshin Impact support cross-p...

A Fire Stick VPN is an essential tool if you want to remove geographic blocks on Netflix and other streaming services on your Fire TV devices. Out of the plethora of VPN options, it can be hard to know which to use and you could spend hours trying to decide for yourself which is the best VPN for you. Using a VPN for streaming comes with its own set of considerations, so whether you're looking for a free VPN, cheap VPN, or just the outright best VPN for Fire TV Stick, use this guide to help you figure out which one to go for.Best Fire Stick VPN Services 20211. ExpressVPN ($6.67/mo)2. NordVPN ($3.67/mo)3. Surfshark VPN ($2.49/mo)4. IPVanish ($3.20/mo)5. CyberGhost VPN ($2.25/mo)1. 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 service, and affordability. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee, so give it a shot today.Fro...

It's been quite some time since the iconic buddy cop comedy Turner & Hooch endeared audiences with its lovable canine co-star, and now Disney is bringing the story to an entire new generation of viewers as a television series. Exclusively on the streaming service Disney+, the new series Turner & Hooch follows the ambitious U.S. Marshal Scott Turner who suddenly inherits a large and unruly dog after the death of his father and soon discovers there's more to his new friend than meets the eye.You'll need a Disney+ subscription if you want to watch the new series Turner & Hooch. If you're wondering how to sign up for Disney+, how much the service costs, or how you can watch for free, make sure to check out the sections below.Disney's Turner & Hooch: When and WhereThe remake series Turner & Hooch premieres this Wednesday, July 21 on Disney+ at 3am ET. Only the first episode will be available at that time, with new episodes premiering on the following Wednesdays...

Samsung is rewarding early adopters with some bonus perks.What you need to knowReservations for "The Next Galaxy" are now open on Samsung's website.Samsung is offering a $200 bonus trade-in credit and 12 months of Samsung Care+ at a discounted rate for folks that reserve a phone.Samsung will be holding the next Galaxy Unpacked on Wednesday, August 11 at 10 am ET / 7 am PT to announce these new Galaxy phones.It's official: the next Galaxy Unpacked begins on Wednesday, August 11 at 10 am ET / 7 am PT. A Samsung-provided graphic announcing the launch can be seen above, and while Samsung is being hushed about what's going to be announced, leaks have seemingly already spoiled the announcements at the show. If those leaks are correct (and we surmise they are based on the infographic), the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Galaxy Z Flip 3 will be making an appearance alongside a Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, Galaxy Watch Active 4, and the Galaxy Buds 2.To celebrate the announceme...

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 ...

YouTube is giving creators even more ways to make money.What you need to knowYouTube is launching Super Thanks as a way for viewers to tip creators.The beta feature is being expanded to 68 countries on desktop and mobile.Twitter recently rolled out its own version of tipping called "Tip Jar."YouTube is rolling out a new feature dubbed "Super Thanks" for creators, which will allow fans to show their gratitude using monetary means.Super Thanks can be purchased from viewers directly underneath a video, where there will be a heart icon with a dollar sign. The company says that four tipping options will be available: $2, $5, $10, or $50 if you're feeling really generous.Viewers who leave a Super Thanks will have their tip highlighted in the comment section, which will provide a way for creators to recognize contributors and thank them. YouTube says it's a great way for creators to engage with their most devoted fans.If Super Thanks sounds familiar, it's because YouTube a...

The best Netflix VPN could be the difference between you actually watching what you want and sitting in a dark room wishing your subscription wasn't going to waste. This is what geo-restrictions do — they block access to content when you're in the wrong place.Best Netflix VPN 20211. ExpressVPN: Overall best Netflix VPN2. CyberGhost: Easiest of all to use3. NordVPN: Great performance for streaming Netflix4. Surfshark: Most affordable option around5. IPVanish: Easy to use & great supportHow can I be in the wrong place? Well, if you're trying to access a U.S. Netflix show while overseas, in a place that doesn't have the rights, then you'll find yourself locked out. That means you'll only be able to watch whatever is available in the place you find yourself. If you want to see the British Royal family in The Crown show, when on your visit to London, then this is ideal. But should you want to catch a U.S.-only movie that doesn't have the go-ahead for UK viewing, then y...

What in the world is going on with the Chrome OS team this month??Update, July 20 (5:15 p.m. ET): Version pulled, new update rolling out on Wednesday, July 21What you need to knowReports of issues started flooding as Google pushed out Chrome OS update 91.0.4472.165 today.Impacted users cannot log back into their Chromebooks, so do not update your Chromebook.If your Chromebook asks to Restart to update, do not click Reboot and do not shut down your machine.Google is aware of the problem, and a fix should be deployed soon. If you're already locked out, you'll have to Powerwash your Chromebook to get back in. If your device is bootlooping before you can get to the lock screen, recover using a USB drive and the Chromebook Recovery Utility.This is the second critical bug on the stable Chrome OS channel in less than a month.Somehow, a major bug has slipped through three experimental channels and made its way into a Chrome OS stable channel — AKA the channel that the vast, ...

The PlayStation VR (PSVR) is a phenomenal headset. Still, there are always more of the best PS4 accessories and other items you can use to enhance your experience, especially since PSVR 2 appears to be a long way off still. That next headset will pack numerous improvements, including controllers utilizing the DualSense haptic feedback. For now, though, if you're looking for the best travel and display cases, we can show you our favorites. Do you want better sound quality or controller options? We know the best options for those, too. We've got your back all the way down to keeping your PSVR safe, clean, and at its peak performance. Here's everything you need to live like a king in virtual reality.On-the-goUSA Gear PSVR and console travel caseStaff PickOne of the best parts of virtual reality is sharing it with your loved ones. Make traveling easy with this USA Gear travel case. It has enough room to fit your PSVR headset, PSVR processor, PlayStation 4 console (Original, Sli...

Qualcomm may be feeling the pressure from Google and SamsungWhat you need to knowQualcomm has confirmed new Snapdragon Wear processors are coming later this year.A new coalition was formed, comprised of over 60 companies in an effort to improve the wearable market.Some companies, like Fossil Group, have already confirmed new smartwatches are coming later this year.While Samsung and Google continue to get closer and closer, Qualcomm is on the outside looking in. Samsung is gearing up to launch its next series of wearables with the Galaxy Watch 4, with Google's new Wear OS-inspired software in-tow and possibly a Samsung-build SoC. Qualcomm isn't standing pat as the company announced its continued commitment to the Snapdragon Wear platform.In addition to announcing that new Snapdragon Wear processors are on the way later this year, Qualcomm also announced the Wearable Ecosystem Accelerator. In the press release, this program brings together a conglomerate of different compan...

Better than ever before.One of the many exciting new features of the PS5 is the ability to play games at 120 FPS (frames-per-second). The advanced specs of the PS5 and the rise in capable displays mean that developers have the option of targeting 120 FPS in games if they so choose. We've rounded up all the games directly confirmed to at least feature a 120 FPS option in certain modes, which we'll add to over time as more games are announced. Here's the full list of PS5 games with 120 FPS support — that we're aware of right now.Jump to:List of games with 120 FPS supportWhy should I want 120 FPS?What do I need?List of PS5 games with 120 FPS support Game Resolution Free upgrade Upgrade release date Borderlands 3 1080p Yes November 2020 Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War 1200p No November 13, 2020 Call of Duty: Warzone ~1512p Yes July 2021 Destiny 2 Dynamic 1440p Yes December 8, 2020 Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition...

Two new games in the store and more content for Marvel's Avengers.What you need to knowCris Tales launches on Stadia today.One Piece: World Seeker Premium Edition is now available to purchase from the Stadia store.Marvel's Avengers receives several packs of paid add-on content.Two more games have launched on the Stadia store this week, and Marvel's Avengers has added various paid cosmetic add-ons, Google announced in its weekly blog post today.Cris Tales launched on the Stadia store today and can be purchased for $39.99. The turn-based role-playing game has been noted as a love letter to classic Japanese RPGs and was developed by Colombian game studios Dreams Uncorporated and Syck.The other game now available on the Stadia store is One Piece: World Seeker. The open-world action-adventure game from developer Ganbarion and publisher Bandai Namco Entertainment was originally launched for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One in 2019. The Stadia version is positioned as the Premi...

If you've ever played the Oculus Quest 2 while sitting down or for long periods of time, you've probably realized that Facebook's latest VR offering isn't very comfortable to wear. Many of the Quest 2's most popular games, like Beat Saber or Superhot VR, require users to stand while playing. Still, nobody wants to watch Netflix or play Tetris on their feet. If you're looking for a more traditional, seated gaming experience, you'll need a few things to help improve the experience. Here are some of the best seated VR accessories for Oculus Quest 2.Premium experience at a premium priceQuest 2 Elite Strap with Battery and Carrying CaseStaff PickThe Elite Strap with a battery delivers necessary comfort, but it also makes extended play sessions a lot more palatable thanks to its built-in battery pack. The ability to charge your Quest 2 as you play makes everything easier as long as you're willing to shell out the cash. Thankfully, the strap comes with a carrying case for your Q...

Jonathan Kanter is known for his anti-Google stance.What you need to knowBiden may name Jonathan Kanter as his pick for the head of the DOJ antitrust division.Jonathan Kanter is a lawyer known for taking up lawsuits against Google for companies like Microsoft and Yelp.His appointment would closely follow Lina Khan's appointment as FTC chair, a move that threatens Facebook's leadership position.President Joe Biden has nominated Jonathan Kanter as the new head of the DOJ antitrust division, according to White House officials.Jonathan Kanter is a lawyer who has been named a harsh critic of Google and an advocate of antitrust enforcement. A statement from the White House describes him as "a leading advocate and expert in the effort to promote strong and meaningful antitrust enforcement and competition policy."Kanter has previously represented rival companies that have sought to sue Google over its anti-competitive practices. This includes Microsoft, Spotify, and Yelp.The ...

Casual exploringGarmin InstinctFrom $192 at AmazonProsGPS, HRMActivity/sleep trackingTracBack RoutingAffordable price tagMultiple design optionsConsNo advanced training metricsLacks NFC for Garmin PayWhether you're a casual explorer, a first-time buyer, or a budget shopper, the Garmin Instinct is an incredible smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts. There are a few different models to choose from, depending on your needs. This is the best choice for those who want an affordable GPS smartwatch designed for rugged adventures.Serious adventuringGarmin fenix$495 at AmazonProsGPS, HRM, NFCActivity/sleep trackingAdvanced training metricsPower ManagerIncident detectionConsInsanely expensiveOnly a few design optionsIf you're used to spending a lot of time outdoors and you'd benefit from a premium multisport GPS smartwatch, a Garmin fenix model is the way to go. It's certainly more expensive, but it's made for advanced users who want more ...

The gang share their thoughts on the newly announced Steam Deck, including the target audience and how the experience is likely to differ from other consoles and PC-based gaming rigs. They also talk about enjoying games how you want to play them — and that includes easy mode!Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Steam Deck: Specs, cost, and everything you need to know | Windows CentralWith the Steam Deck, Valve might beat Nintendo at its own game | Windows CentralHow to preorder Nintendo Switch OLED model | iMoreXbox is combating exclusion with its accessibility drive, and others should follow | Windows Central...

Chrome 92 is all about securityWhat you need to knowGoogle has released Chrome 92 to the stable channel for desktop and Android.The update primarily focuses on privacy and keeping your information secure.Chrome Actions are now available so you can run commands from the address bar.Google is releasing Chrome 92 today for Android, Windows, Mac, and Chrome OS. In Chrome 92, there are a lot of new features surrounding your security and privacy.The first new feature is the ability to easily check the granted permissions for each website you visit. Occasionally, you might see a pop-up notification requesting access to things like your location, microphone, and camera. With Chrome 92, you'll be able to quickly check to see what a website has permissions for, allowing you to toggle access with ease. Google will also be adding a new option to delete a specific site's browsing history from this drop-down menu.Late last year, Google introduced Chrome Actions, which is a way to t...

Best answer: We spoke with various education experts, and we believe that yes, Chromebooks are appropriate for kindergarteners — with a few caveats.Is a Chromebook appropriate for a kindergartener?If you're wondering whether or not Chromebooks are good for kindergarteners, we've got you covered. You've already read our answer to this question, but we wanted to qualify it based on feedback that we received from educators, administrators, policymakers, and product manufacturers. The general consensus was that, yes, Chromebooks could be good computing devices for students as young as kindergarteners. With long-lasting batteries, durable construction, and age-appropriate software, these devices are purpose-built to withstand the demands of a younger student. Still, it's important to consider what you want your youngsters to accomplish on a Chromebook. Will it be their primary conduit to their school, supplemental learning while at home, a safer child-friendly entertainment device, ...

The Ear 1's transparent charging case will come equipped with a large 570mAh battery.What you need to knowNothing CEO Carl Pei has revealed new info about the company's upcoming Ear 1 true wireless earbuds in a new interview.The earbuds will offer up to 24 hours of continuous playback with active noise cancellation enabled. Like the earbuds themselves, the Ear 1 charging case will also be almost completely transparent. Carl Pei's Nothing will finally announce its first product next week. Ahead of the big launch, Carl Pei has shared some new details about the upcoming Ear 1 wireless earbuds in an interview with CNET.Pei told the publication that the Ear 1 will deliver up to 24 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation enabled and 36 hours with ANC turned off. The charging case will pack a 570mAh battery with support for wireless charging and fast charging. Users will be able to get up to six hours of usage (with ANC on) with just ten minutes of in-case charging....

With Sony having gone well past 30 choices for controller color options, both in standard releases and limited editions, it can be hard to keep track of what is still available out there. Even finding a basic white second-generation controller can be difficult as colors are starting to be discontinued now that the PS5 is available. Prices are also rapidly increasing and aren't likely to come back down since the DualShock 4 has been replaced by the DualSense. Some of the limited edition controllers solely came in console bundles, making pre-owned your only option, that is, short of buying a new console. But we have you covered; these are all the DualShock 4 controllers you can still get your hands on.★ Lovely limited500 Million Limited EditionThe 500 Million Limited Edition PS4 controller was made to commemorate the sale of 500 million PlayStation consoles. This controller is quite possibly the most beautiful DualShock controller we will ever see. It features a deep transl...

The best shows streaming on HBO Max todayHBO Max launched in 2020 as the digital hub for all your favorite HBO series and WarnerMedia content, from classics like Six Feet Under and The Wire to the latest films being released by Warner Bros. Pictures. With so much media already available on the platform, and plans for more shows to premiere in the future, it can be tough to decide what you should watch next. As such, we've rounded up a list of the best shows on HBO Max right now.Best shows on HBO MaxHBO Max originalsPopular on HBO MaxDrama on HBO MaxComedy on HBO MaxDocuseries on HBO MaxHBO to the MaxHBO shows and moreHBO MaxFrom $10 at HBO MaxFind both new series and a catalog of classics on HBO MaxHBO Max provides streamers with access to film and television content from HBO, WarnerMedia, and DC. Subscribe now to catch up on your favorite HBO and Max originalsHBO Max original seriesHBO Max launched in 2020 with a handful of original series exclus...

One of Sony's biggest franchises will indeed be making a full return on PS5. Here's what we know so far.Gran Turismo has been one of Sony's biggest franchises since the days of the very first PlayStation. The tagline, "the real driving simulator," has always cut straight to the core of what Gran Turismo is all about, and generally speaking, has received much praise over the years.Jump to:When does it release?Resolution and frame rateWill it support PSVR?Fan favorite circuit returnsWhat cars will it include?What are its features?Will it be on PS4?Gran Turismo esports and Getty Images Gran Turismo 7 betaBut it's also hard to believe that the PS4 has gone by entirely without a new, full Gran Turismo game. Gran Turismo 6 launched on the PS3, and while PS4 owners have at least had GT Sport, it's fair to say the reaction has been mixed at times, and it's not quite the same as a full sequel.Which is what we seem to be getting on the PS5. There's still a lot of questi...

With so many options, you may get overwhelmed when trying to find the best Arlo cameras. While many of Arlo's best cameras have traditionally been pretty expensive, the company now offers plenty of options for every budget. With consistent updates and some of the best features, you would be hard-pressed to find a better option. With that being said, the Arlo Pro 4 is our favorite camera thanks to having almost all of the bells and whistles one could want, to the point that it's one of the best smart home security systems overall.Best overall Arlo camera — Arlo Pro 4The Arlo Pro 4 has become our pick for the best Arlo Camera thanks to its improvements over its predecessor, the Pro 3. The Pro 4 sports 2K video recording with HDR, allowing users to zoom in on objects and take clearer pictures whenever needed. Plus, there is Color Night Vision, so you can view night recordings in color without relying on the traditional black and white video.With the Pro 4, you can set the came...

Android users can finally enjoy cross-carrier RCS starting next year.What you need to knowVerizon is collaborating with Google to expand RCS messaging to more Android users in the U.S.Google's Android Messages will be preloaded on all Verizon Android phones starting next year. T-Mobile and AT&T have already switched to Android Messages for RCS.Verizon has joined hands with Google to give Rich Communications Service (RCS) a big push in the U.S. Starting next year, all Android phones on Verizon's network — including the best cheap Android phones, will use Google's Android Messages app for RCS. The other two major U.S. carriers, AT&T and T-Mobile, have already committed to switching to Android Messages. T-Mobile became the first U.S. carrier to make Messages its default texting app in March this year. AT&T, on the other hand, confirmed plans of making the switch last month.Announcing the collaboration with Google, Verizon Consumer Group CEO Ronan Dunne said:...

Google Wifi is a great mesh system that gets a lot right, but if it's not the perfect fit for you, there are some great alternatives to Google Wifi. If you're looking for a mesh Wi-Fi option, there are many available, whether you just need a little more coverage or want to overhaul your network with fast Wi-Fi 6 technology completely. Eero is the best overall alternative to Google Wifi if you like the features but want something with more expansion and a sleek modern design. We've gathered some of the best Google wifi alternatives for this list, so you can find the right system that works for your home.Best overall: eeroEero aims to keep things simple and easy with the third-generation Eero mesh, which offers 802.11ac speeds that aim to be enough for standard usage though top speed will be lower than many other mesh systems. This Eero version is recommended for connections under 350Mbps and should be more than enough for even 4K video streams. However, if you want to stick with...

Don't sleep on itNest Hub (2nd Gen)$100 at Best Buy$100 at B&H$100 at WalmartProsExcellent smart home controlsOffers sleep monitoringCan be a Cast target for audio and videoGreat display for viewing photosConsMay be too large for some nightstandsNo USB charging portsSleep Sensing will cost after the preview periodThe Nest Hub (2nd Gen) has a good enough speaker that you'll be happy watching a YouTube Video or listening to a podcast, but it won't start a party. The display is vibrant and makes a beautiful digital photo frame. Because it can act as a Cast target, you'll be able to send videos or music to it from your phone. The Sleep Sensing is a nice bonus to monitor your sleep quality; however, the 7-inch display may be too large for a bedside table.Bedside upgradeLenovo Smart Clock 2See at LenovoProsPerfect size for a nightstandGoogle Assistant is built-inPlenty of clock face designsThe dock adds a wireless charging stationCons...

Network-attached storage is a concept that at one point seemed pretty daunting to the layman. These days it's easier than ever to set up. All you really need is an NAS device, a couple of hard drives to fill the bays, and a strong network connection. With that small investment, you an ensure all of your media and data is stored in a secure way that's accessible to your entire home or small business.Some of the more popular brands for NAS devices include Synology, QNAP, and Buffalo. Even Western Digital has gotten in on the NAS side of things. If you want to set up your own home media server or something like a Plex server, then look for one of these popular brands for a system that's easy to use and designed for convenience.Best NAS DealsBuffalo LinkStation 210 2TB private data storage | $15 offThis is a great way to create your own private storage if you're on a budget, and it even comes with the hard drives you need. Access the content anywhere youhave internet. Use it ...

Best answer: Most Synology NAS models released within the last seven years are eligible for the DSM 7.0 update. The stable build is already rolling out to dozens of NAS enclosures, and is in the works for a few business-focused RackStation models.Which Synology NAS models are getting DSM 7.0 right now?Synology's huge DSM 7.0 update is now live, and there is a lot to like. The update comes with a fresh new interface and offers a ton of performance upgrades. I've been using it on everything from the budget DiskStation DS220j to the enthusiast DiskStation DS1520+, and it has been a delight.Synology makes the best home NAS enclosures, and its software is easily one of the differentiators. The manufacturer is generous with updates, and as such most of its products launched within the last seven years are getting the DSM 7.0 update. Synology has published the full list of NAS models that are getting the stable version of DSM 7.0 right now:21-series:DS1621+RS1221+DS1821+RS2421...

If you're reading this, you're here because you just want to save the absolute most you can on your new TV. And who can blame you? TVs are expensive, and the price can grow exponentially the more you want out of it. Well, you've come to the right place. Find the best possible TV to fit your budget, but more than that this roundup will feature TVs that still manage to pack in loads of features. A cheap TV doesn't have to mean bad TV either. You'd be surprised what all you can get even when you don't want to splurge on the more advanced sets. Did you know there are even a bunch of great Android TVs to check out?In general, the larger the TV the more expensive it gets so we've separated this roundup into different sizes to help you navigate the best cheap options around.Best Budget TV Deals Available NowBest Cheap TV Deals under 50": Prices as low as $119Best Cheap TV Deals over 50": Prices down to $450More Info: What to look forBest Buy smart TVs as low as $120Best ...

Upgrade pickNokia G20$199 at AmazonProsLarge 6.52-inch HD+ LCD displayDecent 48MP main cameraThree years of updatesExpandable storage up to 512GBHuge 5,050mAh battery3.5mm headphone jackConsOld Wi-Fi doesn't support 5Ghz bandwidthNo fast chargingSlightly more expensiveThe Nokia G20 comes with some budget phone staples like a large 5,050mAh battery, a huge 6.52-inch LCD display, a 3.5mm audio port, and expandable storage. Then there are a few extra features like promised platform updates for three years and a pretty good quad-camera setup starring a 48MP main camera. Nokia checks all the right boxes with the G20.Budget pickNokia G10$150 at AmazonProsLarge 6.52-inch HD+ LCD displayThree years of updatesExpandable storage up to 512GBHuge 5,050mAh battery3.5mm headphone jackVery cheapConsDoesn't support 5Ghz bandwidthOnly 3GB of RAMOnly 32GB of internal storageNo fast chargingThe Nokia G10 is an entry-level phone that tries h...

Chromebooks with gaming capabilities will soon be a thing.What you need to knowNVIDIA and MediaTek have joined hands to bring Ray Tracing and DLSS to ARM-based systems.The RTXDI, NRD, and RTXMU SDKs for Arm with Linux and Chromium are now available, while RTXGI and DLSS will be coming soon.Wolfenstein: Youngblood is the first RTX PC game to be shown on an Arm-based device.Back in April, NVIDIA and MediaTek collaborated to bring RTX graphics to Arm-based systems, including Chromebooks. NVIDIA today showed off two technical demos that paired its GeForce RTX technologies with an Arm-based MediaTek processor at the Game Developers Conference (GDC). The move will not only provide additional platforms to game developers, but also make NVIDIA RTX technologies a lot more affordable for consumers.One of the demos includes Bethesda Softworks' Wolfenstein: Youngblood with real-time ray traced reflections and Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) on a MediaTek Kompanio 1200 Arm-based p...

Till the bitter end.What you need to knowOver the weekend, we asked AC readers how long they kept a smartphone before upgrading.The majority of respondents said they held onto a device for 1-3 years.Nearly as many kept their phones until they no longer worked.It seems like there's a shiny new device coming out every few weeks, and while it's very tempting to immediately upgrade to the latest and best Android phones, that's not necessarily the most practical or financially sound decision.Here at AC, we've read the industry trends and surveys about upgrade cycles and phone sales, but we wanted to know what real Android users like yourselves were doing. So this past Saturday, we asked you how long you typically keep a phone before upgrading, and the answers were a little surprising if we're honest. As Android enthusiasts, we expected more than 2.28% to say that they upgraded their devices every 12 months or less, but that simply wasn't the case. In fact, over 50% said they w...

Even the best Chromebooks can use the helping hand, especially from great Chromebook accessories that enhance their capabilities. Google has branded 'Works with Chromebook' accessories to eliminate the guesswork, giving you the peace of mind that these accessories will work with your Lenovo Flex 5 or whichever Chromebook you've settled on. Our favorite is the Cable Matters 201248 USB-C hub, which makes it that much easier to use an assortment of other Chromebook accessories, opt for a wired network connection, or dock your Chromebook with an external monitor. Since a hub only does its job when paired with other handy accessories, we've rounded up a few others to help you make the most of your Chromebook.Best overall: Cable Matters 201248 USB-C HubThe Cable Matters 201248 USB-C Hub is a sure-fire way to make setting your Chromebook up at a desk that much easier. This handy hub can turn a single USB-C port on your Chromebook into an HDMI port, an Ethernet Port, and a pair of USB ...

Beat Saber is one of the best Oculus Quest games on the Oculus Quest 2 and the Oculus Quest. It has you slash blocks and dodge bombs to the rhythm of pop, drum, bass, and more. While Beat Saber has a nice selection of original songs and DLC packs, more songs simply make the game better. Thankfully, the community has made thousands of Beat Saber custom songs, and it only takes a few minutes to get it set up.Keep in mind that updates to Beat Saber have, historically, always broken the ability to load custom songs. Once you've gone through this tutorial, be sure you delay any Beat Saber updates until the custom song utility has been updated for the new version of the game. Otherwise, you'll lose access to your custom songs until the tool gets updated.How to unlock developer modeHow to set up SideQuest on your PCHow to connect your Oculus Quest and SideQuestHow to create a backup of Beat SaberHow to install Installing BMBFHow to sideload songsHow to unlock developer modeTo...

The Amazon Fire TV Stick and other Amazon Fire TV devices are a simple, affordable way to stream content from platforms including Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and — now — HBO Max. With a few button clicks, you'll have access to all of the HBO exclusives, as well as new releases from WarnerMedia. Here's what you need to do to watch HBO Max on Fire TV.How to download HBO Max on Fire TVIf you haven't already downloaded HBO Max on your Fire TV Stick or Fire TV device, you'll need to do that before you can start streaming more than 10,000 hours of classic and original content on HBO Max. Here are the steps you need to take to download the service so you can watch HBO Max on Fire TV.Navigate to the Fire TV Home page.Open the Menu and select the Search function. Search HBO Max. Click the Download icon. Open the HBO Max app.Select Sign In.A prompt will appear on the screen with a code to input. Login to HBO Max on your smartphone or computer using the code.If you currentl...

The ThunderDome has been dismantled and a live audience will once again be in attendance at Money in the Bank 2021 and we have all the details on how you can watch the WWE's latest big event online.Money in the Bank is an annual event put on by the WWE each July where the main attraction is the ladder matches. During these matches, ladders are placed all around the ring that wrestlers can use to fight one another though the end goal is to use one of the ladders to grab a briefcase hung from the ceiling.Inside the briefcase is a contract for a world championship match that the winner can cash in at a time and place of their choosing anytime within the next year. However, if the contract isn't used within this time period, it becomes void but thankfully this has never happened since the Money in the Bank ladder match was first introduced in 2005.Besides the ladders, Money in the Bank is also the only pay-per-view event in the WWE with a regular theme song. In every event except f...

Android 12 is all well and good, but the phones it's launching this fall might eventually see updates all the way to Android 17.The launch of the third Android 12 beta this week gives us a look at an increasingly polished and largely feature-complete version of Google's next OS. On phones like the Pixel 5, it's a marked improvement upon earlier betas and represents the biggest visual overhaul for stock Android in more than five years.Back in 2016, the current Google flagship was the Huawei-built Nexus 6P, and the original Google Pixel — still then referred to as a hypothetical "HTC Nexus" — was just a rumor. In the dying days of the Nexus program, Android looked a lot different. Next to the new-fangled Material You design language, early Material Design in Android Lollipop and Marshmallow look quaint. Five years is a long time in tech, especially mobile tech.Five years is a long time in tech, and particularly mobile tech. This is why the prospect of Google supporting...

Though live music is slowly returning in areas across the world, livestreamed virtual concerts aren't going anywhere now that labels and artists alike have seen what a huge success they can be. New artists are jumping onto various virtual platforms and performing every week, but it's not every day that a legendary artist like Bob Dylan plays to a virtual audience. This weekend, fans of the iconic performer will get to watch from around the world as he takes the stage for his first-ever virtual concert, Shadow Kingdom.Shadow Kingdom will see Dylan performing in an intimate setting and is set to feature songs spanning his extensive body of work. The event also marks his first concert performance since December 2019.While there are some free livestream concerts that happen on sites like YouTube, many of the best virtual shows are ticketed events. You won't have to pay anywhere near as much as you would to go see the performer in person though. Shadow Kingdom tickets cost $25 at Ve...

Spanish star Jon Rahm will be looking to follow up his recent US Open triumph as the golfing world descends upon Kent for the British Open.Read on for full details on how to get a live stream of The Open 2021 with our guide below.The 149th edition of the tournament takes place at Royal St. George's in Kent for the first time in ten years.Rahm has been consistent throughout the season, and will be desperate to become the first player to win back-to-back Major titles since Jordan Spieth in 2015.The Open's 2019 winner Shane Lowry remains the defending champion due to last year's event having been cancelled thanks to the pandemic, however the Irish star comes into this weekend's event as something of an underdog with his form having not quite hit the same heights since that famous win.Veteran star Phil Mickelson has his sights set on a second major title of the year, while the familiar names of Speith, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Rory McIlry are all being well backed to ...

Play on a single account once the new update rolls out.Cross-saving, or cross-progression, will be added to Genshin Impact with the 2.0 update, along with the new city of Inazuma and several new characters. This means that, before you had to maintain different characters on different platforms, you can now play as your Traveler on multiple devices.Developers MiHoYo recently detailed how this works, and while the linking process is a bit tricky, it's not as complicated as it sounds. Here are the steps, and as a reminder, these options won't go live until July 21, so do not try and link the accounts until after then.A note on terms: We'll refer to a general "iOS/Android/PC" account as a "MiHoYo account." This is because you must create your own account to play on those devices. The PlayStation, on the other hand, creates its own MiHoYo account when you open Genshin on it for the first time that is separate from that on the aforementioned devices. So for the sake of differenti...