Latest from Android Central

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...

WhatsApp's new policy change isn't going well.What you need to knowThe Indian government has asked WhatsApp to withdraw its controversial privacy policy.WhatsApp has not complied but has stated that it will not limit access to users that haven't accepted the new policy.WhatsApp will continue to remind users about the new policy, even though "the majority of users ... have accepted them."WhatsApp has stated that it won't limit user accounts in India for not accepting the privacy policy. The company made the statement (via LiveMint) in response to the Indian government's request to halt its controversial privacy policy for violating India's laws.A WhatsApp spokesperson said in a statement that the company is complying with the letter from the Indian government over the new policy while also reiterating that the update doesn't affect personal messages. "Its purpose is to provide additional information about how people can interact with businesses if they choose to do so."T...

The largest Chromebook ever could be coming soonWhat you need to knowNew rumors suggest a 17-inch Chromebook is coming this August from ASUS.The ASUS CX1700 could be priced as low as $299.ASUS is said to include up to 8GB of RAM and up to 64GB of storage.Hot on the heels of the ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 introduction, we're hearing that ASUS is keeping its foot on the gas. According to a source speaking to Chrome Unboxed, ASUS is working on the world's first 17-inch Chromebook. It's not often that we see the boundaries pushed in the world of the best Chromebooks and Chrome OS, but if this rumor comes to fruition, we'll be getting Chrome OS on bigger screens soon.According to those rumors, this upcoming Chromebook will be called the CX1700 and will be powered by one of two processors. The CX1700 will use Intel chips, with ASUS still deciding between the Jasper Lake Celeron N5100 or the Pentium Silver N6000. There's no surprise in the RAM department, as we will see a mi...

Type-C electronics are about to take a big step forward.What you need to knowThe USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) has announced the first major revision to USB Type-C in two years.USB Type-C Cable and Connector Specification Revision 2.1 paves the way for 240W power transfers thanks to "Extended Power Range" (EPR) support.This specification has been revised in part with AMD, Apple, Dell, Google, HP, Intel, Lenovo, LG, MediaTek, Oculus, Qualcomm, Samsung, and other companies as it preps for devices with USB4 and the upcoming Power Delivery revisions. If you've been able to condense down from having five different chargers for all your different devices down to one great 100W charger that can charge everything from your best wireless earbuds to your trusty Chromebook in the last few years, you have two standards to thank for that: USB Type C and Power Delivery. The last major revision for USB-C cables and connectors was back in 2019, but today the USB Implementers Forum — wh...

Take it to the limit.What you need to knowHIIT Studio marks the first big addition since the FitXR monthly membership subscription launched.FitXR is offering the first 3 HIIT Studio classes for free to try, and a 7-day trial of the membership.$9.99 per month unlocks access to 2-3 new HIIT workouts per week, in addition to the other workouts offered through FitXR membership.FitXR is already one of the very best exercise & workout games for Quest 2, and it's about to get even better with the addition of the new HIIT Studio — a weekly set of high-intensity exercises that'll keep your blood pumping and your body sweating. HIIT Studio is the first big update since FitXR launched its monthly membership service. FitXR was among the first batch of games to launch its new monthly subscription service when Oculus added the option to the Oculus App Store just last month.If you're not familiar with HIIT, it stands for high-intensity interval training and gained quite a bit of p...

Whether you're a seasoned vet of the desk life or you are new to the game, wires can get a bit wild, so a good cable management solution is paramount. No, the wires aren't out to get you — it's just some strands of metal and plastic — but sometimes it can feel that way. Not to worry, here are some great ways to get those cables under control and out of sight, whether you use a traditional desk or a standing desk. Our favorite option is the Scandinavian Hub Under Desk Cable Management Tray, but there are a lot of other options, from full-on cord organization nirvana to finding the slightest bit of order in your mess of wires.Best Overall: Scandinavian Hub Under Desk Cable Management TrayThis steel wire basket is one of the easiest ways to keep cables from cluttering up behind your desk and onto the floor. By putting your cables and even your power strip into this basket, the wires will be out of the way — and could possibly tangle — but easily accessible if you need them...

The Suunto 9 Peak arrives to challenge the Garmin Venu 2.What you need to knowSuunto has launched the latest of its 9 series sports smartwatches.The Suunto 9 Peak can last roughly a week with GPS tracking enabled.The smartwatch is available for preorder starting at $569 and will ship June 17.Suunto makes some of the best Wear OS smartwatches, such as the Suunto 7, but its latest offering deviates from Google's OS with improved battery life. The Suunto 9 Peak was announced on Tuesday as the latest addition to the company's 9-series smartwatches targeted at sports enthusiasts.The company calls the Suunto 9 Peak the "thinnest, smallest and toughest watch Suunto has ever made," thanks to the grade 5 titanium watch case, which flanks the 1.2-inch display with rather large bezels. The titanium build makes the watch scratch-resistant and hypoallergenic, and it even features water resistance at up to 100m of depth.The device features plenty of sports tracking options, with mo...

NVIDIA Shield TV 4KNew look, same great performance$145 at AmazonProsTube design is compact and easy to set up Best support for Google apps and servicesExpandable storage via microSDSupport for 4K and HDRAI-upscalingConsOnly 8GB of internal storageDoesn't ship with an HDMI cableNVIDIA has been owning the Android TV streaming box segment for years with the same NVIDIA Shield TV hardware. In 2019, NVIDIA gave us a new look with an upgraded processor that delivers all the features required to keep pace with the newer competition.Apple TV 4K (2021)Good for mostFrom $179 at AmazonProsBest support for Apple apps and servicesGreat for mirroring content from Apple devicesMedia looks stunning on 4K TVsOptimized to be easy to use New remote is much better than previous modelsConsNo way to expand storageDoesn't ship with an HDMI cable Apple is known for making top quality tech products that are perfectly suitable for practically anyone. tvOS i...

OnePlus has since removed the reference.What you need to knowOnePlus has accidentally teased the Nord 2.A listing of eligible devices for the Stadia Premiere edition promption included the Nord 2.OnePlus is expected to launch the Nord 2 in the next couple of weeks. OnePlus's Nord 2 may have just been confirmed by the company in a slip-up spotted by Android Police. The company shared a Stadia promo on its website, offering users a free Stadia Premiere Edition when paired with a purchase of an eligible Oneplus device. When looking at the device listing, alongside expected entries like the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 9, an unfamiliar name popped up — the Nord 2.OnePlus has yet to announced the OnePlus Nord 2, so the existence of this line is a bit of a weird situation. It's a little like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE which went live briefly in Germany before being pulled after it was reported on. OnePlus has similarly memory-holed this line, but the internet never forgets.The...

Best answer: The NVIDIA Shield TV is still the best Android TV box you can buy in 2021. NVIDIA has done a great job offering software updates that continually make the Shield TV better than before, and the 16GB is a great option for any habitual streamer. So yes, it's absolutely your best bet for an Android TV box.NVIDIA is still king of Android TVThe NVIDIA Shield TV is a full-featured streaming box that runs on the latest Android TV software. That means it has both Google Assistant and 4K Chromecast functionality built right in, along with a host of other great features. All of that makes the Shield a stand out product.It also offers the best internal specs and features on a TV streaming box and comes packaged with a sleek remote that includes a built-in microphone for use with the Google Assistant. You can also plug in a keyboard and mouse or connect Bluetooth devices for both gaming or for more mundane things like entering passwords and searching. The NVIDIA Shield stil...

The JP crew discuss platform exclusivity and the possibility that Starfield may be an Xbox and Windows only title. They also preview Deathloop for PS5, talk about Nintendo's lack of clear strategy when it comes to amiibo, and more.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:A report suggests Starfield will be exclusive to Xbox and Windows PC, as screenshots leak online | Windows CentralXbox is ready to start playing dirty | Windows CentralMicrosoft to host a joint Xbox and Bethesda conference to discuss future projects | Windows CentralDeathloop for PS5 preview: A stylish immersive sim that could be game of the year | Android CentralNintendo turned the beautiful Zelda & Loftwing amiibo into a cheap paywall accessory | iMoreNintendo fans don't know what they want from amiibo, but neither does Nintendo | iMore...

Finding decent Android tablet deals isn't so tough anymore, though finding a deal on one of the best tablets can be a bit more difficult. Of course, there are always opportunities to save on tablets even when it's not one of the biggest shopping events of the year like Black Friday or Prime Day. We're gathering all the best Android tablet deals and listing them right here to make saving on your next tablet simple.Best Android tablet dealsGalaxy Tab S7: from $80 with trade-inGalaxy Tab A7: $30 offFire HD 8 Kids Edition: 30% off twoWith all the various Android tablets to choose from, you might be wondering which tablet is actually worth buying. We've created a few guides that can help you figure out which are the best of the best, from the best Android tablets to best Samsung tablets, and best Android tablets for students, though there are plenty more to consider as well. We're routinely updating the list below with the best tablet deals for all price points so you can find...

If you want to go all-in with smart home gadgets, there's a lot you can get, from smart speakers to smart lighting. Smart locks for Google Home are also worth the investment. Not only do they keep your home safe and secure, but they can be also be controlled remotely, and you can give access to other family members or friends easily. Here are the best Smart locks for Google Home that can be controlled using Google Assistant!Google Assistant's best friendGoogle Nest x Yale Smart LockStaff PickYou can control this smart lock from anywhere through Google Assistant and ties in beautifully with other Google Nest products with automated features like disabling your Nest Secure alarm when you come home. It can unlock automatically with your phone and has a backup number pad.$279 at Amazon $279 at WalmartBudget choiceAugust Smart Lock - Keyless Home EntryAugust's third-generation smart lock is a real treat. It unlocks automatically with your phone and has a deadbolt thumb...

European telecom to make it easier to see just how sustainable your smartphones are.What you need to knowA new Eco rating label has been unveiled for smartphones being sold in Europe.Smartphones will have an overall rating based on several different factors.The new label will begin appearing in June on phones from Samsung, Nokia, Motorola, and more.Several European telecom companies have banded together to launch a new Eco Rating label for smartphones. The new label will be used to show consumers how eco-friendly the smartphones they buy are. This should make it easy for environmentally conscious consumers to make more informed decisions about smartphone purchases.The initiative results from a collaboration between Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, Telia Company, and Vodafone. Building a more sustainable future is our joint responsibility, so we believe the time is right to drive a harmonised, industry-wide Eco Rating Scheme that will improve transparency and hel...

Cooler heads seemed to have prevailed with the name of this device.Update, May 15 (01:20 pm ET): Samsung has pulled the German listing.What you need to knowSamsung has quietly launched the Galaxy Tab S7 FE in Germany.It'll cost €649 for the base model.The Tab S7 Lite was expected to launch in June. Samsung today quietly launched the Galaxy Tab S7 FE, its newest tablet and a variant of the well-reviewed Samsung Galaxy Tab S7. The device had been leaked earlier as the Galaxy Tab S7 Lite, the Galaxy Tab S7 Lite XL, and the Galaxy Tab S7 Lite Plus, but Samsung instead went with the Fan Edition branding it used for the Galaxy S20's cheapest variant last year. It isn't on sale yet and only exists as a product listing so far, but that's as quiet a launch as you can get. A bigger boom announcement followed by a date when you can actually buy the thing should be coming soon.From the German site, this variant will ship in either Mystic Black or Mystic Silver, none of the other ...

The lawsuit alleges that Amazon is not favorable to third-party resellers.What you need to knowDC's Attorney General filed a lawsuit against Amazon alleging that the company fixes online retail prices.DC AG says that the practices aren't helping third-party resellers.Amazon has been under anti-competitive scrutiny for over a year now.DC's Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against Amazon to end anti-competitive practices that have raised prices for consumers and stifled innovation and choice across the platform.Karl Racine alleges in a press release that Amazon's fixes online retail prices through contract provisions and policies to third-party sellers. The press release said that these provinces and policies are considered the "most favored nation," which prevents third-party sellers from offering the same products at lower prices on other platforms, including their own.By putting this policy into practice, third-party sellers have to incorporate high fees, "as much ...

There are many gadgets and doodads to keep your kids entertained these days, but one of the best and most affordable ways to do so is with an Amazon Fire tablet. Amazon's Kids tablets are essentially the same as the "regular" version with some notable kid accessories and extra services. We think the Fire HD 8 Kids is the perfect size for reading, playing games, or watching videos.In 2021, Amazon created the Kids Pro line of tablets to give older kids a device that feels more grown-up in both its look and software experience. These devices offer the same hardware as the standard Kids tablets, but with a software experience and a case that kids aged 6 to 12 years old will better appreciate.Parents will still feel at ease knowing that the Kids Pro tablets still have all of the excellent parental controls and device protections they've come to expect from this Kids line of devices, thanks to the Amazon Kids and Kids+ features. Let's take a look at what all is available for your littl...

The best Wi-Fi 6 routers get us closer to 5G speeds at home. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) has arrived and promises to push Wi-Fi speeds over 10Gbps by combining 2.4GHz and wider 5GHz bands to provide a better experience and much larger coverage at home. The new Wi-Fi standard is becoming increasingly common in phones and laptops. Now is the right time to invest in one of the best Wi-Fi 6 routers on the market.What are the best Wi-Fi 6 routers?The Netgear Nighthawk RAX70 comes with everything that people expect out of a Wi-Fi 6 router with great AX6600 speeds, tri-band, eight streams, and 160MHz support. QoS by application and a great control app make this the best-balanced Wi-Fi 6 router around.The second best option is the Linksys MAX-STREAM Mesh Router, which is for people who don't necessarily need a mesh solution right now but may want to expand their network in the future. Mesh router solutions pair multiple "nodes" together to increase signal quality and speeds throughout larger ho...

Meanwhile, former-subsidiary Honor is moving closer to Qualcomm and Google.What you need to knowHuawei will be launching HarmonyOS on June 2nd.The company did not say if it would be launching a HarmonyOS smartphone at that time, though reports indicate that there would be a Huawei P50 launch at the same time.Huawei has been moving away from Android as its primary operating system ever since the U.S. restricted it from working with U.S. tech companies.Huawei is finally launching HarmonyOS on June 2nd, as per a video shared on its Weibo account and reported by the South China Morning Post. This is the latest move that Huawei would be making in response to the tradesanctions that severed its smartphone business from both Google and Qualcomm, effectively neutering it.While the first version of HarmonyOS was more or less conceputialised as an operating system for IOT devices, its sequel was very much an Android replacement. HarmonyOS 2.0 has been in testing for a while now, a...