Latest from Android Central

The Galaxy S21 series phones are the first to get the June 2021 security patch.What you need to knowThe June 2021 Android security patch has started rolling out to Samsung's Galaxy S21 series phones.The rollout is currently limited to South Korea. Samsung is expected to release the June security update for more Galaxy phones over the coming days. Samsung's Galaxy S21 series have started receiving a new software update that brings the June 2021 Android security patch. According to SammyFans, the June 2021 security update arrives as version G991NKSU3AUE8, G996NKSU3AUE8, and G998NKSU3AUE8 for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra, respectively.The new security update appears to be limited to users in South Korea right now, but it will expand to more markets over the coming days. Since we're still in May, Google hasn't yet detailed the changes included with the June 2021 security patch. More details are expected to arrive in the first week of June, which is when G...

This may be the best $300 Chromebook deal I've ever seen.As AC's Chromebook queen, I check Chromebook prices the way most of you check sports scores or the weather forecast, looking to see if the best Chromebooks have gotten some overnight discounts or lightning deals that could help you get a better laptop for less. Today, Acer announced its first Thunderbolt 4 Chromebooks, including a new version of last year's wildly popular Acer Chromebook Spin 713. With the new model is launching at $700, last year's $530 and $630 models are starting to see sweet sales. I expected to see them down to $450-$500, but I was not prepared to see $329 staring me in the face on Best Buy's website.If you value your eyes or your wallet, go grab this immediately before it sells out.Premium screen, budget priceAcer Chromebook Spin 713$329 at Best BuyThis is worth it for the 2K touchscreen alone.Balancing excellent performance and futureproofed fundamentals, Acer produces the most well-round...

Bring the classic arcade action you remember to your phone with these great fighting games!Fighting games have fallen to the wayside on the latest consoles (and the less said about the state of arcades the better) but for a long while, fighting games reigned supreme in the video game world. They were often the battleground where gamers showed off their skills in arcade tournaments or huddled around a TV with your best pals. Fortunately, the genre is still well-represented on mobile devices, with a great mix of ports and original titles to satisfy fans of fisticuffs.Here's hoping we see more ports of classic fighting titles but until then, enjoy these great fighters. And when you're done here, be sure to head over to the best Android games list to check out some other great games!The gamesShadow Fight 3King of Fighters '97Mortal KombatReal Boxing 2Injustice 2Fighting Tiger - LiberalSkullgirlsStreet Fighter IVPrizefightersReal Steel World Robot BoxingBrawlhallaFin...

Over the last few years, we've seen a resurgence in home speakers thanks to the rise of Alexa and Google Assistant. The idea of having a "smart speaker" is a lot more appealing to folks than a traditional, dumb speaker, and this has created a significant shift in the home audio market. Sonos has been creating killer speakers since 2002, and lately, has adapted to the changing industry. The company's product line is now better than ever, with its top overall offering being the tried-and-true Sonos One. Here's why the One is so darn good, along with the company's other top gadgets.Best overall: Sonos OneWith an impressive portfolio, one of the best Sonos speakers that stands out for most people is the Sonos One. This is the Gen 2 model that was quietly released in March 2019, and while it's mostly the same as the Gen 1 version, it benefits from an upgraded processor and better Wi-Fi performance.In any case, the Sonos One is our favorite Sonos speaker for a lot of reasons. It's ...

If you're thinking of leaving AT&T's prices behind but still like its coverage, then check out these alternative carriers.We've compiled the complete AT&T Wireless MVNO list so that you don't have to go searching all around the web for a great wireless deal. A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is an "alternative carrier" that leases network coverage from one of the large carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon). Much of the time, these carriers can offer cheaper service by targeting smaller markets or removing features that many people won't need.Thanks to the size and quality of AT&T's 3G, LTE, and 5G network and support for most unlocked phones, AT&T is an easy choice for an MVNO. Still, many of the best MVNOs use one of the other networks, or even multiple networks, and may be a better fit for you.You need to make sure that your phone has the following GSM bands to work with an AT&T-based MVNO. Alternatively, you can check your IMEI on the website of m...

The best premium Chromebook just got better, and you can buy it today!What you need to knowFour new Chromebooks debuted at Next @ Acer, with one going on sale today.The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 uses last year's great design and adds in Thunderbolt 4 and Intel Evo platform certification for $700.Acer's first 17.3-inch Chromebook, the Acer Chromebook 317, arrives next month for $380.Updated models for the Acer Chromebook 314 and Acer Chromebook 514 arrive later this summer.Summer is approaching, and with it comes a new crop of capable Chromebooks, including a refresh of the Acer Chromebook Spin 713, one of the best Chromebooks on the market today. The new Acer Chromebook Spin 713 — model number CP713-3W — is mostly the same as last year's CP713-2W, except for two very important upgrades: it's powered by the 11th Gen Intel Core series of processors, and the USB-C ports have been upgraded to Thunderbolt 4. I'm not totally thrilled that they're on the same side, Macbook-sty...

Best answer: No, the Oculus Quest 2 does not need a PC to operate. However, hooking it up to a PC will open an entire library of PC-only content.The standalone wonderThe Oculus Quest 2 was designed to be played on its own, anywhere, and at any time. There's no need to make a Quest 2 PC connection thanks to a powerful custom mobile processing chipset inside the Quest 2. That processor can recreate virtual worlds in a way that feels real to the person wearing the headset. The four cameras on the outside of the Quest 2 headset can see the world around and map it in 3D space, keeping track of your movements in VR and translating them to the virtual world in a way that makes sense. That means you won't need to hook up additional cameras or light boxes the way other VR systems required.Likewise, the cameras track those Oculus Touch controllers via a bevy of LEDs placed in the ring of the controller, enabling fast and accurate movements that make it feel like you're moving the virtual...

Google One is a great all-in-one solution to store your Google Photos, Docs, and other important pieces of online information. It is easy to access and use, priced competitively among the online storage options and can be accessed from just about any connected device, including laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones. And while it's great that Google gives you more free storage than some other companies (15GB for all users), it's also pretty easy to fill up your quota, especially if you've got years of emails, documents, photos, videos, and music or movies in there. Google does offer affordable upgrade tiers, but the first thing you should do before you upgrade is to make the most of the space you already have. Here's how to manage and free up your Google One storage to accomplish just that.How to manage and free up your Google One storageOn an Android deviceOpen the Google One app.Tap on Storage at the top of the screen.Scroll down and tap on Free up account storage.Sc...

The refreshed One SL doesn't offer new features or functionality.What you need to knowSonos has introduced a "refreshed" version of its One SL speaker.The new model is said to be more power efficient and is also recyclable. It is now available to purchase from Sonos as well as third-party retailers. Sonos has quietly introduced a refreshed version of its One SL speaker. The new model comes with a "more efficient" wireless radio and a more sustainable product packaging.Sonos has also made a few tweaks to the design of the speaker's base to get rid of excess plastic and stickering. Although the minor refresh doesn't bring any new features to the "dumb" speaker, Sonos says the updated model is compatible only with its newer Sonos S2 app. The launch of the refreshed One SL was first reported by The Verge.In a statement sent to Android Central, Sonos said: We continually seek opportunities to make our products more efficient and sustainable. In this case, we've made upda...

Whether you own the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 or any of the previous models, you want to keep track of your S Pen. This seems easy enough, but it's not uncommon for small accessories like this to get misplaced. If that time has come, try not to worry too much. You'll have some different options on how to replace your Samsung Galaxy Note S Pen.While some of the best Samsung Galaxy Note 20 cases ensure you still have easy access to your S Pen, this doesn't mean it won't get damaged or lost. Fortunately, all hope is not lost when it comes to finding a replacement.How to replace your Samsung Galaxy Note S PenFirst, retrace your steps and take one last look around to see if you can locate your S Pen.Remember that you'll receive a notification if your S Pen is too far from the Bluetooth connection.After receiving this notification, be sure to put your Samsung Galaxy Note S Pen in its place when you're done using it.If all hope is lost and it's time to replace your Samsung Galaxy Not...

Phones aren't the only pieces of tech that benefit from protective covers. Though the PS5 DualSense controller doesn't necessarily need a skin, there are plenty of reasons to get one. Maybe you want to get a better grip on your controller, or maybe you don't want that pristine white case getting all dirty. Maybe you just want a different color. Whatever the reason, you can pick up a fairly cheap controller skin for your DualSense. While they're all pretty similar, here are some of the best PS5 controller skins to fit your style and budget.Pleny of colorseXtremeRate PlayVital Guardian Edition Case for PS5 DualSenseStaff PickeXtremeRate's Guardian DualSense case is ergonomic and comfortable, featuring high-grade silicone and provides protection against bumps and scratches. There are over 10 different colors to choose from, and it comes with a set of thumb grips.$16 at AmazonJust the gripseXtremeRate PlayVital Red Anti-Skid PS5 DualSenseWant to have a better gr...

What might be driving this lossless largesse?Recently, two of the streaming music industry's biggest players — Apple and Amazon — both announced that they would begin offering lossless audio streams to their paid subscribers at no additional cost.This marks the first time Apple has offered a higher-quality music format to its subscribers, though Amazon (and others) have offered hi-fi or HD music for several years under more premium subscription tiers.More things for less money (or no money) sounds great, but unless you're Neil Young or our very own Jerry Hildenbrand, I will wager that you either have no idea what lossless audio is or that you don't really care about it.So just what is lossless audio, you may ask? Essentially, it's an uncompressed digital audio file format that offers a higher fidelity sound closer to what you might actually hear in person. There are different definitions, versions, and formats of lossless audio, but the important thing to note is that it...

Google Play PassGaming Powerhouse$4.99/mo. at Google Play StoreProsMassive library of 800+ apps and gamesLower annual feeNo ads or in-app purchasesNew games added monthlyConsIncludes a lot of fillerNo native listing of all included apps and gamesIf you consistently play a lot of mobile games, Google Play Pass is a great way to get your hands on a massive library of games and apps for just $5 a month. The service includes some top tier games, but also includes a bevvy of filler games/apps that most people wouldn't consider value-adds.Apple ArcadeExclusive Paradise$4.99/mo. at Apple ArcadeProsLots of exclusive games made just for ArcadeNo ads or in-app purchasesCompatible across Apple devicesNew games added weeklyConsDoesn't include appsSmaller library of games with 180+Higher annual feeApple Arcade originally included only exclusives on its platform, but has since expanded its library to include more classic titles. The higher a...

After 17 years the entire cast of the iconic 90's sitcom Friends will be reunited in a new almost two-hour-long special and we have all the details on how you can watch Friends: The Reunion on TV or online.Friends first premiered on NBC back in September of 1994 and the series ran all the way until May of 2004. In its ten years on the air, the show had a total of 236 twenty-minute episodes that followed the lives and loves of a close-knit group of friends living in New York City.Now after almost two decades, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer will return to the show's original soundstage (Stage 24) on the Warner Bros. Studio lot in Burbank, California for an unscripted celebration of the beloved series.In Friends: The Reunion, the entire cast of Friends will participate in a trivia game about the show to see who remembers the series most. There will also be a table read of an episode from season 4 titled "The One With ...

With so many Fire Kids tablets available from Amazon these days, filtering through it all can be tough.If you search for the best Android tablet for kids, you will inevitably find an option from Amazon at the top of many lists. This is because Amazon has worked extremely hard to offer good quality hardware and software and do so at an affordable price. With up to six different tablet options for kids, it can be difficult to sort through which is the best Amazon Fire kids tablets to buy for your child.Just rightAmazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2020)$140 at Amazon$140 at Best BuyBest option for most kidsThe Fire HD 8 Kids tablet offers a great 8" HD display that is big enough to enjoy content on but not so big that it's hard to hold for smaller hands. With dual speakers, a durable case with a built-in kickstand, and excellent parental features, your child is sure to love this tablet.Amazon Fire Kids tablet:What is it?PricingDifferences FeaturesPro modelsAmazo...

The next phone in the OnePlus Nord series has big shoes to fill.What you need to knowThe next device in the OnePlus Nord series is the Nord CE 5G.It will make its global debut in India on June 10. OnePlus is also launching a new TV in the U series at the event, with new wireless earbuds inbound later in the year. OnePlus is increasingly focusing on the Nord series to bolster its sales momentum. The OnePlus Nord debuted nearly a year ago and is still one of the best cheap Android phones available in 2021; it continues to sell incredibly well in markets like India.OnePlus says that sales in India increased by 200% in Q4 2020 — following the introduction of the Nord — with that number rising to 300% in Q1 2021. Clearly, the Nord as a product resonated with users in the country, and OnePlus is now aiming to follow it up with a new launch in the series, the Nord CE 5G.The Nord CE 5G will make its global debut in India on June 10, and OnePlus will also introduce a new TV ...

There's no shortage of great VPN providers out there and NordVPN happens to be among the best. Normally when something is at the top of its class that means it costs more, but that doesn't have to be the case here. You can actually get some pretty great NordVPN deals, coupons, and discounts on NordVPNs service without trying too hard.With nearly 5,400 servers spread across 59 different countries, there's a lot to like about NordVPN. It's one of the best options out there for unblocking Netflix in various regions and has great security features.Today's best NordVPN deals and couponsWhen looking at VPNs, security is always at the front of our focus as we test them. We have a full NordVPN review that breaks down all of the key parts but, as a whole, the service offers fast speeds, reliable connections, and works on almost every device out there.The best NordVPN deal available todayWith NordVPN, the longer you prepay for the service, the better the deal becomes. Right now, the ...

Nubia says the RedMagic 6R is a gaming phone that has been designed for everyday use.What you need to knowNubia has announced another new flagship gaming phone.The RedMagic 6R features a 144Hz AMOLED screen, Qualcomm's Snapdragon 888 processor, and a 4,200mAh battery. It will go on sale in China from June for a starting price of 2,999 yuan ($470). ZTE's Nubia sub-brand has announced a new addition to its RedMagic 6 series family, dubbed the RedMagic 6R. The phone is primarily aimed at gamers, but doesn't have the same gaming-inspired design as the RedMagic 6 and 6 Pro phones.Nubia's new RedMagic 6R sports a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 360Hz touch sampling rate. Under the hood, it packs the same Snapdragon 888 chipset as the best Android phones on the market, paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage.The RedMagic 6R has a quad-camera setup at the rear, featuring a 64MP Sony IMX682 main sensor. It also includes a 1...

Now let's see if Google can capitalize on this chance.If you were to ask just about any iPhone user why they won't switch, there's likely to be one prevailing answer — the ecosystem. Everything just works. The seamless transition between the Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad, and Mac is the best system integration that we've ever seen. Samsung has been battling Apple in this respect for years, upping the ante by partnering with Microsoft for better integration with apps on Windows, but it's not the same.Google, on the other hand, has felt like it has a bunch of different teams working on different projects that don't ever talk to one another. Of course, we're sure this isn't actually the case, but that's the way that it looks from where I'm sitting.Wear OS has been a jumbled mess since its inception, and even after Qualcomm introduced a new wearable SoC that fixed many of the complaints from previous iterations, only the TicWatch Pro 3 uses it. Samsung and Fitbit have dominated the A...

This is the definition of plug and play.I love using my capture card, even though I don't use it super often. It has an extremely niche purpose, so I use it when I need to get footage off of my PS5 and onto my computer quickly and easily. I'm not a very active streamer (sound off to my 20 subscribers on Twitch), but if I was, my capture card would probably be my lifeline. The problem is that they can be cumbersome to use, especially if you're inexperienced and don't know where all the HDMI inputs and outputs go.That's where something like the new Genki Shadowcast comes in. It's one of the smallest capture cards currently on the market, practically the size of my thumb, and is super easy to use. It has just one port, so all you have to do is plug it into a console's HDMI port, and then plug the other end into a cable, which runs into your laptop's USB-C port. It works with your Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, so you can start streaming to your laptop super easily. If yo...

You'll still have to use the Twitter mobile app to join a Space.What you need to knowTwitter's Clubhouse-like 'Spaces' is now available on the web.While you can now join Spaces from a mobile or desktop browser, you won't be able to host one yourself. Until now, users could join Spaces only using the Twitter mobile app on iOS and Android. Twitter's Clubhouse-like 'Spaces' feature has finally made its way to the web. Users can now join a Space from any desktop browser or the best Android browsers.Unfortunately, it is currently not possible for users to host Spaces from Twitter for web. If you want to host a Space, you'll have to use Twitter's Android or iOS app instead. However, you can set reminders to join a scheduled Space and try out the new transcription design.Spaces are making their way to Twitter for web! Now you can join a Space to listen in, test out the new transcription design, and set reminders to join a scheduled Space. https://t.co/xFTEeAgM4x— Twitter Sup...

The Pixel 6 chipset won't be as powerful as the Snapdragon 888, but that's the point.What you need to knowMore details about the Pixel 6 chipset have been revealed.The chip will reportedly fall below the Snapdragon 888 in terms of power and feature a Mali-G78 GPU.Details about the Pixel 6 displays have also emerged.More details about the alleged Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 "Pro" have emerged, providing a better idea about the chipset and possibly the displays of the devices.Google's GS101 Whitechapel chipset that is rumored to power the device will reportedly not match the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 in terms of power. According to leakers Max Weinbach and Yogesh, it will be built on a 5nm process, and its power will be closer to that of the Snapdragon 870.Google will apparently lean on machine learning and AI power its upcoming flagship smartphones, which has been largely expected of the rumored Google Silicon.It's also been rumored that Samsung is building the chip. So f...

But Fitbit's 2FA is still text-based.What you need to knowFitbit is rolling out two-factor authentication (2FA) for its app.The 2FA system will use SMS for verification instead of software-based verification.The new 2FA should be rolling out to users on both Android and iOS.For Fitbit users who have been asking for two-factor authentication (2FA) on the app, your wishes have been answered. Fitbit has begun rolling out "an extra layer of protection" on iOS and Android devices. As pointed out by 9to5Google, the feature does not appear to be available for everyone just yet, and it hasn't shown up on our devices either.Fitbit appears to be sticking with text-based 2FA instead of a software-based method. It's a curious omission since Fitbit is now owned by Google, which allows verification of its accounts through a prompt on a trusted device or with an authenticator app. Our Jerry Hildenbrand has pointed out the flaw in using text-based verification, stating that it gives user...

A perfect lifestyle watchFossil Gen 5From $240 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart-rate monitoringActivity/sleep trackingGoogle AssistantGoogle PayConsOnly one size optionMore expensiveIf you want to go big or go home with your smartwatch experience, the Fossil Gen 5 is where it's at. It's nearly identical to the Fossil Gen 5E, with a few exceptions. On this model, you get built-in GPS, additional storage, and a rotating crown. It only comes in one size, though.Lite yet efficient wearableFossil Gen 5EFrom $180 at AmazonProsHeart-rate monitoringActivity/sleep trackingGoogle AssistantGoogle PayTwo sizesConsLacks onboard GPSNo rotating crownLess storageIf looks are more important to you than internal features, you might find yourself favoring the Fossil Gen 5E. You'll have two size options to choose from, which is ideal for users with smaller wrists. It's slightly more affordable, but you'll sacrifice GPS and a few other perks.F...

A new feature could set Pixels further apart from other Android phones.What you need to knowGoogle is working on an app translation feature in Android 12 for Pixel phones.Once enabled, the feature should allow Pixel users to use apps that don't support their native languages.It's not currently available for testing in the current betas of the operating system.Google is working on a new feature for Pixels that'll let them automatically translate app content. If it ships, it'll be coming in Android 12 and was spotted by the folks over at XDA Developers.How would this work? The short version of this story is that Google is working on a translation framework that'll allow your phone to automatically translate text in apps that don't support your phone's preferred language. Many apps already support multiple languages, so only a few niche apps (or even old and discontinued ones) will benefit from this. Still, users of said niche apps would value this functionality. It'll be a ...

The best Android phones have not only managed to pack in more features over the years, but they've been getting larger as well. For many, it's gotten to the point where they have to use two hands for tasks that ordinarily, or ideally, could be done with one hand. Sometimes, it's just more convenient or comfortable to use your phone one-handed, like when you're walking or holding a cup of coffee. Several smartphone manufacturers have taken it upon themselves to build their own one-handed mode versions, but now with Android 12, Google includes it at the system level. At the time of writing this article, one-handed mode is still in beta. But if you have the beta installed, you can turn on the feature now. In a few easy steps, we'll show you how to enable one-handed mode in Android 12. Let's get started!How to enable one-handed mode in Android 12Open the Settings app on Android 12.Scroll down and tap on System.Scroll down and tap on One-Handed mode.Tap to toggle on Use one-ha...

That's a lot of Aston Martin DB5s and shaken martinis.Well, it happened. Amazon finally got tired of all the other tech giants buying up movie studios and decided to get one itself, buying MGM Studios for $8.5 billion. MGM had been trying to find a buyer for years amid a rapidly shifting market, and Amazon is trying to get taken more seriously in Hollywood, so the deal almost seems like a good idea from a bystander's view. Then again, $8.5 billion is a lot of money that could be spent on a lot of different things, even when it comes to studio shopping. MGM is worth two Marvels? Really??After all, Disney bought Marvel for $4 billion in 2009 and Lucasfilm for $4.05 billion in 2012, then spun them together with Pixar, Disney, and National Geographic for Disney+ in 2019. That seems like a bargain next to the $71.3 billion Disney paid for 20th Century Fox's movie studios and non-news television networks — and it also underscores how MGM, one of the oldest movie studios in America,...

Hunt should be one of Farlight 84's flagship modes offering 48-player PvP.What you need to knowFarlight 84 third-person shooter coming to Android, iOS, and PC in 2022.Lilith Games has announced one of its flagship modes called Hunt, featuring PvP between 48 players.As its name suggests, Farlight 84 takes place in 2084 in a desolate wasteland. Farlight 84 is an upcoming third-person shooter from Lilith Games, the studio behind AFK Arena, Rise of Kingdoms, and Warpath. In a press release the developer announced Hunt, a new mode that players can expect when the came comes to mobile and PC in 2022.Hunt is described as a skirmish between two teams, each with a Numtag that the other team is expected to hunt down. Once teams earn enough points through collecting the Numtags, they'll have the opportunity to evacuate the map."We're excited for players to discover our innovative HUNT mode in Farlight 84, which provides an unprecedented experience for fans of the genre, Our ga...

Google announced a Meet redesign for the desktop web last month.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out a new Meet design on the web.The company confirmed today that it had hit 1% of users.There are a few known issues that Google plans to sort out over the next month. Google last month announced a new Google Meet interface would be rolling out to Chromebooks and desktop operating systems, and now the company says that it's now available for some. Despite that, Google notes that there is some weirdness in the app.First though, let's talk about the new Meet look. The new look adapts itself for larger meetings, letting more callers be visible at a time. It also allowed users to resize their own tile if they wanted to keep themselves visible, rather than the current all or nothing option.So, what's wrong with the Google Meet interface? Google highlights the following known issues. 1) You might notice some unexpected behavior such as missing video tiles or the capti...

The company started testing this move out last year.What you need to knowFacebook had started testing private like counts back in 2019.The change allowed you to hide the number of likes your posts received, as well as strip like counts from your feed.It's now being made available globally. Facebook is rolling out a new change that'll allow you to hide like counts on your Instagram feed. This change will apply both to your page, as well as to those of others. In other words, you'll be able to hide like counts on your own posts so others can't see them, and you'll be able to hide the like counts on posts in your feed so you can't see them.A test that started in 2019 showed the first steps of this change, with the company having initially said that it wanted "your followers to focus on what you share, not how many likes your posts get."The change was intended to improve people's experience on Instagram and removing the pressure to post for the likes. Instagram, while pop...

Most phones these days are capable of taking beautiful photos, and some even feature multiple lenses that change the perspective of your shots on the fly. But for those that don't, artificially distorting your photos in post to add a fisheye, wide-angle, or macro look can affect the quality and feel of the image. Luckily, external, universal lenses allow you to achieve these unique perspectives naturally, even if your phone only has one lens. Here are the best universal lenses for your Android phone.Best overallMoment LensesStaff PickWhile not entirely universal, you can use Moment's high-end lenses with any phone the company makes an accompanying case for, including popular Galaxy and Pixel devices. You can pick up a wide-angle, super fisheye, or telephoto lens for your phone, then simply attach the lens to the case's screw mount and start shooting!$120 at AmazonClip-on lensesXenvo Pro Lens Kit Macro and Wide Angle LensXenvo takes a more straightforward approach ...

The device is expected to be released sometime around September.What you need to knowAnker has teased a new Android TV streaming dongle with 4K support.The device will include a Google-designed remote and ship with Android TV 10. It is slated to launch in Japan later this year.Anker's Nebula brand has announced that its first-ever streaming dongle will arrive later this year (via 9to5Google). According to a tweet posted by Nebula's Japanese Twitter account, the device will be called the "Nebula 4K Streaming Dongle" and ship with Android 10.TV等にHDMI接続できるストリーミングデバイス「Nebula 4K Streaming Dongle」を9月頃に販売開始予定！最新のAndroid TV 10.0を搭載し、YouTubeやNetflixを始めとした7,000以上のアプリに対応。最大4K出力の高解像度に加え、Dolby Digital Plus対応の高音質な映像がお楽しみいただけます。#APC21Spring pic.twitter.com/RqEbAUyBzQ— Anker Japan (@Anker_JP) May 25, 2021...

If you've ever played some of the best Android games on your phone and wish you could play them on your computer, you're in luck. This is a unique Android emulator for Windows and macOS that allows you to play Android games on your PC with BlueStacks. You can log in with your Google account to download and play the same games across both the best Android phones and your computer.How to install Bluestacks on your PCNavigate to the Bluestacks website on your PC.Click the Download Bluestacks 5 button. This will automatically detect your operating system and install the correct version of Bluestacks.Open the Downloads folder on your computer.Double-click the BlueStacks Installer to begin the installation process.Once open, click the Install now button.The installation process will take some time, but when completed, it will take you to the BlueStacks 5 Home Screen.In order to get started, click the Play Store icon. Click the Sign in button. Sign into the Google account tha...

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals.What you need to knowAmazon will acquire MGM for $8.45 billion.MGM had been looking for a buyer since last year. The company had previously held acquisition talks with Apple, Comcast, and Netflix. Amazon today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire iconic film studio MGM for $8.45 billion. In a press release announcing the deal, Amazon said that it plans to "preserve MGM's heritage" and empower the company to "continue to do what they do best: great storytelling."MGM, which is best known for its James Bond film franchise, boasts a massive catalog of over 4,000 movies and 17,000 TV shows. Aside from the upcoming Bond film No Time to Die, MGM has quite a few exciting releases in the pipeline — including The Addams Family 2, House of Gucci, Respect, and the untitled Paul Thomas Anderson film.As reported by Variety, MGM began looking for a buyer back in December. Both Apple and Comcast had reportedly conside...

Turns out, and I know this will come as a surprise to some of you, that giant ball of fire in the sky can actually be harnessed to do produce some pretty good power. If you plan on being outside for a camping trip or a long hike and you want to ensure you always have a way to use your mobile devices, grab the BigBlue 3-port foldable solar panel charger while it's on sale for $51.80 at Amazon. This is the lowest price it has been in more than a year and well below its $70 street price. In 2020, the solar panel charger was going for as much as $85 at one point. The last few times it has dropped this low it never lasted long, so we expect this deal won't be around much longer either.You might already have a few methods for keeping your phone charged, like a portable power bank or one of those fancy jump starters in your car that include USB ports, but all of those options are limited if you aren't near an electrical outlet to plug into. With BigBlue's solar panel charger, not only can...

Wear OS is finally getting a long-overdue refresh, and there's no better time than the present for Google to bring a kids mode to the platform.OK, before I get into this, I'm aware that the idea of Google making a kids mode for Wear OS seems like a bit crazy considering the platform has been stale for years now — but with a refresh on the horizon, the idea isn't as far fetched as it once was. Google has been making a more significant push in building out parental features with Family Link, and gaining new features and adding new products like Kids Space for tablets — so why not continue that expansion into Wear OS?Last Fall, when Apple announced Family Setup for Apple Watch, I began hoping that Google or Samsung would soon follow suit. If you're unfamiliar with Family Setup, it makes an Apple Watch with cellular connectivity capable of operating independently from an iPhone, making it an excellent option for families who may not be able to afford an iPhone for their child, or...

This will be a way to complement its acclaimed exclusives portfolio on consoles.What you need to knowDuring a corporate strategy meeting, PlayStation CEO Jim Ryan confirmed that the company plans to expand into mobile gaming.This backs up a previously discovered job listing that indicated PlayStation was looking for a Head of Mobile role.Ryan says that PlayStation has a "huge catalog of diverse first-party IP that can transition to smartphone gaming."PlayStation's looking to invest more heavily in mobile gaming according to CEO Jim Ryan, who spoke during a recent company strategy meeting. Ryan says that the company has been thinking about how players enjoy its content, and points to early success in mobile experimentation that it can reach a wider audience. (via ZhugeEX). Mobile is just one of the areas we are exploring to reach millions of gamers beyond our platforms. PlayStation has a huge catalog of diverse first-party IP that can transition to smartphone gaming and ...

In March of 2021, Google updated the search box in Google Drive to change some operators you can use to search for files. If you're using your Chromebook, Android phone, or desktop, these will make finding files easier since you'll be able to filter the people involved with the files themselves. You can use these search terms to filter out to whom a file has been shared, who owns it, who you got it from, and who you sent it to.How to use operators to find files easier in DriveTo use the operators, enter them in the Search box at the top of Google drive, as demonstrated below.Some of these operators existed before, but their function has slightly changed. The changes to the operators are as follows: "from:" will now return files shared with you by the specified email address. Previously, it would have returned files owned by that email address. "to:" will now return files you have shared with the specified email address. Previously, it would have returned all files th...

Oculus Quest 2Self-sufficient beast$299 at AmazonProsStandalone VR consoleAffordable and widely availableGreat graphicsPlenty of games120Hz refresh rateWirelessConsObligatory Facebook loginPoor battery lifeUncomfortable strapsManual IPD settingThe Oculus Quest 2 is Facebook's next-gen successor to the original Oculus Quest, and it is next-gen in every technical aspect, save for the head straps and battery life. It has outstanding graphics, is incredibly easy to set up and use, has a good amount of games, and carries an affordable price.PSVRPlayStation accessory$385 at AmazonProsWide game collectionComfortable to wearOLED displayDigital IPD settings via console90Hz refresh rateConsPS4 and accessories requiredWiredExpensive and not available widelySubpar graphicsIn a nutshell, the PSVR is an accessory that provides PS4 and PS5 users with a VR gaming experience. It's an extension to the Sony consoles and has no legs to stand...

Best Buy has a new set of deals of the day, and the featured deal is the Cubii Jr. elliptical machine. It's on sale for $199.99 today only. While we have seen it go as low as $185 in the past, it has been more than a year since it fell that low. The elliptical is going for $250 in its other color variants, and it's going for $250 at other retailers like Amazon. These deals expire at the end of the day, so you'll want to grab it while you can.So, you sit at a desk for eight hours a day, huh? It's hard to find time to go to the gym, too. I understand because I live that life myself. And a sedentary life is not a healthy one. Keep moving through the day with an under-the-desk elliptical like this. The Cubii Jr uses a compact, ergonomic design. It fits easily under tables and desks and ensures a low range of motion so you won't be banging your knees while you use it. It's also a super quiet machine so you can use it at work without driving your co-workers insane.As a fitness tool, th...

Best answer: Yes! Amazon's Fire tablets are great for content consumption, but haven't previously been built with work in mind. However, the Fire HD 10 Productivity Edition bundle just might be the perfect hybrid option for those on a budget.Should you buy the Amazon Fire HD 10 Productivity Edition Bundle?Amazon is arguably the top choice for purchasing an inexpensive, personal tablet for consuming videos, playing games, or entertaining the kiddos. Its popular Fire tablets come in a variety of sizes, and there are even two separate lines of Fire Tablets for kids with longer warranties, more durable cases, and more age-appropriate user interface and content.The latest edition of the Fire HD 10 now comes in a "Plus" option much like the Fire HD 8 Plus, with more RAM over the base model and the ability to pair with a special wireless charging dock. Not only does this functionality make charging your tablet more convenient, but it also allows you to leave your Fire HD 10 Plus in Sh...

Experts say that it's normal to roll out to operating systems at different times, but it may not have been the best strategy here.Clubhouse might be able to grow the number of daily active users now that its service is open to Android phones, but experts think the staggered rollout will affect the overall success of the platform.The voice-only chatting social media platform announced on May 21 its global rollout to Android users, but similar to iOS users, it will be on an invite-only basis. You'll also be able to use Clubhouse only on Android 8.0 and above, though that shouldn't be an issue for any of the best Android phones. The platform launched in 2020 and, at the time, was only accessible to iPhone users. The app became so popular that several social media platforms released features that imitated Clubhouse.Alex Kantrowitz, the writer for the Big Technology newsletter, said in an interview that while it's common for many app developers to release on one platform first, in t...

Like its predecessor, the ROG Phone 5 offers a better mobile gaming experience than rivals.What you need to knowThe ASUS ROG Phone 5 is now available to pre-order in the U.S.ASUS has priced the 16GB/256GB version of the phone at $1,000. The flagship gaming phone made its global debut in March. The ASUS ROG Phone 5, which was announced earlier this year, has finally arrived in the U.S (via XDA Developers). You can now pre-order the flagship gaming phone for $1,000. ASUS is also offering a bundle that gets you the phone and the ROG Kunai 3 gamepad for $1,040.The ROG Phone 5 comes with an impressive 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED display that has a 144Hz refresh rate and a 300Hz touch sampling rate. It is powered by Qualcomm's 5nm Snapdragon 888 chipset, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage.Since the ROG Phone 5 is targeted at gamers, it isn't quite as good as the best Android phones when it comes to camera performance. The phone sports a triple-lens camera s...

From easy organization to multi-format notes, here's how to best use Google Keep.Google Keep is the best Google app you've never heard of and part of what makes this app so adaptable and wonderful is that it has a very robust set of features despite its simple concept. This auto-syncing note-taking app works wonderfully on the best Android phones, Chromebooks, or even if you're logging into the website through your library's computer lab.Whether you're making packing lists for your summer vacation, writing up new proposals in a more mobile-friendly experience than Google Docs, or just trying to get this story idea out of your head so you can get back to work, here's the Google Keep tips you absolutely need to know.Jump to:Nested itemsLabelsSearchDoodlesKeyboard shortcutsShorthandLocation remindersArchiveCharacter limitsReference materialsWear OSMake the most of lists with nested itemsThe to-do lists in Google Keep are relatively basic — they can contai...

"This project confirmed a very solid security premise at Surfshark."What you need to knowIndependent security researchers Cure53 have audited Surfshark VPN.No serious issues were found and less serious flaws were identified and confirmed to be fixed.This is Surfshark's first audit since 2018.You need your VPN to be secure in order for it to serve the function of protecting your privacy, though you often have to take the service provider at its word that its infrastructure is up to scratch. That's no longer the case with Surfshark as it just underwent a security audit by independent researchers Cure53 where "no serious issues were detected".Independent audits of this kind are undertaken periodically by the bigger, more reliable VPN providers in order to have third-party experts assess any flaws or vulnerabilities when it comes to security. Surfshark's last audit was back in 2018 which was one of the dings against it when we were ranking the best VPN providers. Having an up...

Fantastic mesh performance in a compact designTP-Link has been mastering the mesh category with its Deco series, and the Deco X60 is no different. With Wi-Fi 6 and an estimated coverage area of up to 5,000 square feet with two nodes, this is one of the best compact mesh systems money can buy. TP-Link offers a wide range of Deco routers depending on how much speed you need, but for most people, the X60 with its AX3000 connection hits the sweet spot.Mesh systems still aren't for everyone, and even with a powerful Wi-Fi 6 backhaul, getting your full internet speed all over your home is a challenge, but the Deco X60 gets close. TP-Link's HomeCare software is included with most Deco routers, and it can further enhance your connection with greater security and a robust parental control solution. Still, it's not all perfect, and for many people, the lack of control that comes with a mesh system may be a deal-breaker.TP-Link Deco X60 review:Price and availabilityWhat you'll like ...

Prepaid carriers have been able to provide laser-focused mobile service that the Big Three postpaid carriers can't match. Ultra Mobile has zeroed in on people that want to stay in contact with family and friends in other countries while still offering great value and service for a connected generation. Whether you just need a basic service with talk and text or want plenty of data for streaming, social media, and video calls, Ultra Mobile has an option for you.Super FlexibleUltra MobileFrom $10/mo. at Ultra MobileA plan for everyoneUltra Mobile has an option for just about any customer, whether they need a ton of data or just need to be able to call internationally.Ultra Mobile:What is Ultra Mobile?Read the reviewUltra Mobile's service plansUltra Tourist and FlexCoverage and 5GHow does Ultra Mobile stack up?Compatible phonesUltra Mobile DealsWhat is Ultra Mobile?Ultra Mobile is an MVNO using T-Mobile's network that focuses on offering great servic...

WhatsApp says the Indian government is choosing to mandate mass surveillance by mandating traceability.What you need to knowWhatsApp has moved the Delhi High Court to challenge India's new IT rules.The new rules require social media intermediaries to make provisions to trace users' messages. The Facebook-owned messaging app has argued that the new rules undermine the privacy of its users. Facebook-owned messaging app WhatsApp has filed a lawsuit in India to challenge new government rules that would require it to make provisions to allow users' encrypted messages to be traced. WhatsApp says the rules "fundamentally undermine people's right to privacy" and would break end-to-end encryption on its platform.WhatsApp also believes that tracing messages would not just be ineffective but also highly susceptible to abuse. Since traceability would force the best Android messaging apps to hand over the names of people who shared something even if they did not create it, innocent pe...

The X60 Pro+ offers truly exceptional cameras and refined software — but it misses out in a few areas.Vivo pioneered several innovations in the handset category over the last three years, including retractable cameras, in-screen fingerprint readers, and miniature gimbal modules for smooth video footage. Cameras have always been the differentiator for Vivo, and it is doubling down in this area in 2021. Vivo has teamed up with German powerhouse Zeiss to tune its cameras — emulating what its BBK sister company OnePlus did with Hasselblad.The X60 Pro+ has four cameras at the back, and unlike most phones, all four modules here are noteworthy. You get a 50MP primary camera with a 1/1.3-inch sensor, 48MP wide-angle lens, a 32MP telephoto lens with 2x zoom, and an 8MP module with 5x optical zoom. The device also picks up a gorgeous vegan leather back — similar to last year's Find X2 Pro — and features the latest internal hardware available today, including a 120Hz AMOLED screen a...

Sonos products are getting smaller and smaller.What you need to knowA patent filing suggests Sonos is preparing to launch a pair of wireless earbuds.The Sonos earbuds would feature a fairly unique design and charging methods.There's no indication on when or if they will announce the near earbuds.Sonos is reportedly working on a pair of wireless earbuds, according to a patent spotted by Zatz Not Funny. The earbuds appear to feature a very flat and angular design, not too far off from the Sony WF-1000XM3, and there's also a unique case that will house the earbuds on either side instead of right next to each other. But the real story is apparently how Sonos wants these buds will charge.The patents aren't exactly easy to discern, but one case could feature some type of removable battery plate that would attach to each earbud from the looks of it. This could provide the earbuds with more juice if they're in use and you don't have time to put them through a charge cycle.Thi...