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The default Messages app is installed out of the box on all Android phones, and Google constantly adds new features to the service. A new addition is the ability to star messages. This feature allows you store important messages for later, making it easier for you to access the contents of the message without having to dig through dozens of conversations. Here's how you can take advantage of this useful feature.How to star important messages in the Google Messages appOpen Google Messages. Pick a conversation.Tap and hold the message you'd like to star. Now hit the Star icon that shows up at the top of the app.You should see a smaller star icon at the bottom of the message, indicating that it has been saved as a starred message. You can view these messages by going to the action overflow menu (three vertical dots to the right) and selecting Starred. All of your starred messages are saved here by default.It's good to see Google adding the ability to star messages wit...

Another BlackBerry is on the way, but do you care?The smartphone industry has become a cutthroat business, and only those that can keep up will last. Companies like Nokia and LG have fallen victim to the fast-moving business. BlackBerry used to be one of the biggest players in the market, but the rise of all-screen smartphones, among other things, brought the company to its knees more than once. But now, it appears BlackBerry is getting another chance, and we want to know if you'd actually be interested in a new BlackBerry smartphone.Would you buy a 5G BlackBerry smartphone?After years of struggling to keep up with the best Android phones, TCL managed to give BlackBerry new life in 2016 by agreeing to build its smartphones while Blackberry would focus solely on its software. However, that partnership ended last year, which seemed to mark the final death of BlackBerry. Until, later that same year, the company entered a partnership with OnwardMobile and FIH Mobile Limited to bui...

The safety section will help you better understand an app's privacy and security practices and make more informed install decisions.What you need to knowGoogle has revealed more details about Google Play's upcoming safety section.The safety section will enable developers to showcase their app's safety to users. It is slated to launch for apps in Google Play in the first quarter of 2022.Back in May, Google announced plans of adding a new safety section to app listings in Google Play to help users understand how their data is used by developers. The company has now shared more details about the upcoming safety section — including images that show what it might look like.As you can see below, the safety section will show up in an app's Play Store listing page on the best Android phones. The new section will highlight the app's safety details, such as whether it uses data encryption and if it has been independently validated against a global security standard.When you t...

Commit and save.Verizon sells all kinds of phones. From top-of-the-line flagships to discounted budget devices. From iPhone to Android. From phones focused on watching media to phones focused on cameras. No matter what you're looking for, you're probably also looking to save some money. Who isn't? Verizon releases new and interesting deals all the time. The majority of these deals work in a similar fashion, too. You will get the discount on the phone through a series of promotional credits applied to your monthly bill. It may take up to two years to earn all your savings, but that would be worth it when we're talking about hundreds of dollars.Best Verizon Plan DealsWhile some people (and even other carriers) like to poke fun at Verizon for being more expensive, if you look in the right places you can actually get a plan that meets your needs without spending too much cash. The carrier does offer a variety of different options, and you'll want to do a little research to figure o...

Trying to find the best cheap headphones is already a tough task with the number of options out there, and it gets more difficult when trying to find the best earbuds under an affordable price point. A headset — earphones or earbuds (or even a single earbud) with a microphone and controls — is a different beast than a set of earbuds or headphones without a mic. For starters, not every set will work with Android when you need to answer calls and adjust the volume. Plus, when products are cheap, there are thousands of choices to wade through. So we chose the best ones.Foam fitKLIM Fusion EarbudsStaff PickThey handle calls just fine, fit better than average, and aren't terrible to wear. Best of all, they sound awesome. The Fusion Earbuds also include memory foam ear-tips so that you'll get the best fit possible without having to worry about ear fatigue. Plus, KLIM offers a 5-year warranty if anything goes awry with your amazing earbuds.$20 at AmazonFor the gymJLab M...

As our connected lifestyles and smart homes continue to merge, we find new ways to secure our houses and belongings, like choosing from among the best security cameras with local storage. In light of recent data breaches and privacy scandals, many are looking for options that feature on-device storage solutions (a.k.a. don't use the cloud), so we've put together a list of some of the best options for your reference. My favorite out of the bunch is the eufy Cam 2. It has all of the features I want, with none of the added expenses (subscriptions).Best overall security camera with local storage: eufy Cam 2Eufy makes a line of quality smart home products like this Indoor/Outdoor camera, but one of the things we like best about its products is the one-time fee model they espouse. You don't have to purchase an ongoing cloud storage subscription to access or store your videos, and this device even comes with 16GB EMMC digital storage, which is enough to store up to a year's worth of r...

Samsung started teasing the One UI 3.0 beta program for the Galaxy S20 series in September last year.What you need to knowSamsung has confirmed that the Android 12-based One UI 4.0 beta program will begin in September.The One UI 4.0 beta program will initially be limited to owners of Samsung's Galaxy S21 series phones. You can expect the stable One UI 4.0 update to hit the Galaxy S21 series before the end of the year.Earlier today, a Samsung community manager accidentally posted a banner for the the company's Android 12-based One UI 4.0 beta program. The banner suggested that the first One UI 4.0 beta for the Galaxy S21 series is "coming soon." However, the company has now clarified that the One UI 4.0 beta program will only begin "around September and October" (via TizenHelp).This means that the stable Android 12-based One UI 4.0 update could begin rolling out to the company's best Android phones sometime in the fourth quarter of the year. It took roughly two months fo...

Several games also reached key milestones.What you need to knowSony announced on Wednesday that over 10 million PS5 units have been sold so far.This makes the PS5 the fastest-selling PlayStation console ever.Sony also provided sales updates on numerous games, including Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart. On Wednesday, Sony provided an update on PS5 unit sales and several sales milestones for major games released so far. Sony confirmed that PS5 sales crossed 10 million units sold, a major accomplishment that cements the PS5 as the fastest-selling PlayStation console ever.Speaking with GamesIndustry.biz, Sony shared updates on multiple exclusive titles, stating that Insomniac Games' Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales has sold over 6.5 million copies, Housemarque's Returnal is over 560,000 copies sold and finally, Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart is over 1.1 million copies sold."Engagement on the platform is the highest that we've ever seen whichever way you look at it," Sony Inte...

While manufacturers are making sure to cut off all cords as part of their increased focus on wireless headphones, it doesn't mean wired connections aren't an option. Bluetooth headphones are great, but if you'd rather do without the latency and charging process, some of the best USB-C headphones are a great alternative to both. Just plug and play — and that's it.Go boldRAZER Hammerhead USB-C ANCStaff PickThese earbuds already stand out with the neon green finish, but they also have booming sound and active noise cancelation (ANC). They also come with plenty of tips to get the comfy fit you'd want while wearing them for longer periods.$99 at NeweggWireless first with USB-C audioSennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless Noise Canceling HeadphonesWhile the Momentum 3 Wireless are Bluetooth first, they work just like a pair of USB-C wired headphones. Even better, you can charge them at the same time you're listening to music. A premium design and solid sound with ANC means you...

The X3 GT is POCO's first X-series phone with a "flagship-level" chipset.What you need to knowPOCO has announced a new gaming-focused Android phone powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 1100 5G chipset.The POCO X3 GT features a 120Hz display, a 64MP triple-camera setup, and 67W fast charging. It runs Android 11-based MIUI 12.5 out of the box.Earlier this week, POCO launched its first gamer-centric Android phone, the POCO F3 GT. The company has now unveiled a new X-series device to challenge the best cheap Android phones, dubbed the POCO X3 GT. Just as expected, the X3 GT is actually a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 10 Pro 5G, which launched in China earlier this year.Kevin Qiu, head of POCO Global, said in a statement: We're excited to continue delivering on our customers' expectations with POCO X3 GT, a true powerhouse capable of the demanding mobile gaming and flagship entertainment experience.POCO's latest Android phone comes with a 6.6-inch LCD display with FHD+...

More in-depth detailsGarmin Instinct$200 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart-rate monitoringActivity/sleep trackingMultiple variant optionsMilitary-grade durabilityConsMore expensiveShorter battery lifeIf you want a watch that's built for rugged exploring and you don't mind spending more on some extra features, you'll love the Garmin Instinct. There are several variants to choose from depending on your needs. You get GPS, heart-rate monitoring, activity/sleep tracking, Body Battery energy monitoring, and TracBack routing.Tough but basic trackingAmazfit T-Rex$110 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart-rate monitoringActivity/sleep trackingAmazing battery lifeMilitary-grade durabilityConsOnly one variantNo altimeterIf you're a beginner when it comes to outdoor adventuring and you simply need a rugged watch that can keep up, the Amazfit T-Rex is a solid option. It's got everything required to handle the basics, including GPS, heart-rate monitor...

OnePlus Nord 2Mainstream choice₹29,999 at Amazon IndiaProsPowerful internal hardware65W fast chargingGreat camerasClean softwareConsNo wireless chargingNo IP ratingSlow software updatesThe Nord 2 doesn't deviate too much from the first-gen variant, but it delivers exciting new hardware and upgraded cameras that take stunning photos in any lighting conditions. There's also 65W fast charging, clean software with three years of security updates, and a modern design that makes the device look premium.POCO F3 GTUnbeatable value₹26,999 at FlipkartProsClass-leading 120Hz AMOLED panelSame great hardware as Nord 2Insane battery life with 67W fast chargingSide-mounted gaming triggersIP53 dust and water resistanceConsCameras not as good as Nord 2No wireless chargingLot of bloatware out of the box The POCO F3 GT is all about delivering the best value in the mid-range segment. You get powerful internal hardware backed by an incredible 120Hz...

Realme's solution may not be the prettiest, but it's a step.What you need to knowRealme's MagSafe clone has apparently been revealed in a new image.The magnetic charger is dubbed MagDart and will launch alongside the upcoming Realme Flash.The charger features an internal fan to keep the internals cool while charging.Realme may not be a big name in the U.S., but the company is preparing to take on a big-name OEM with its new charging tech. The company has been teasing its take on the Apple MagSafe charger, and we may have just gotten our first look at the device.Apparently dubbed "MagDart," the charger appears to take Apple's solution slightly to the extreme, with a square and seemingly bulky design. GSMArena obtained images of the device, which apparently houses a fan meant to keep the internals cool while it's charging.According to GSMArena, the charger will be capable of exceeding charging speeds found in Apple's MagSafe chargers, which max out at 15W when charging th...

Let's try this againWhat you need to knowZTE has announced the Axon 30 with an initial release in China, ahead of a global launch.This marks the second attempt at integrating an under-display selfie camera.Pricing and region-specific availability have not yet been announced.The new ZTE Axon 30 5G was announced on Tuesday, introducing the second iteration of ZTE's under-display selfie camera technology. The first attempt came via the ZTE Axon 20, which marked the first smartphone release to include such a feature.Before diving too deep into this new selfie camera, let's run down the specs. The Axon 30 sports a 6.92-inch AMOLED display, along with a 120Hz refresh rate and a FullHD (1920 x 1080) resolution. Powering ZTE's latest handset is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870, which means that its a step down from the Axon 30 Ultra, which launched earlier in the year.The chipset is being paired with 6GB, 8GB, or 12GB of RAM, along with 128GB or 256GB of storage. In terms of batte...

Surprise, surprise, Google continues to make money.What you need to knowGoogle parent company Alphabet announced its Q2 2021 earnings.YouTube ad revenue grew 84% YoY as Shorts drew more than 15 billion daily views.Google hinted at increased spending in the latter half of 2021 due to product launches, hinting at the Pixel 6.Google's parent company Alphabet just published its Q2 2021 earnings and unsurprisingly managed to rake in a lot of revenue. What was surprising, however, is how much of that came from YouTube ads.Google reported overall revenue of over $61 billion, up from $38 billion just a year ago. More than $7 billion was from YouTube ads, with an 84% increase from the same period last year, which notably came right after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. To put the number into perspective, Netflix recently posted total Q2 revenue of $7.3 billion, showing just how popular YouTube is as a source of content for consumers and revenue for Google.Given the company's...

The best Samsung Galaxy S20+ cases keep your bold phone protected without covering up what makes it so striking. The Galaxy S20+ is the Goldilocks of the three Galaxy S20 phones, and has proven to be the most popular variant in most markets. If you got yourself a unit before the phone was discontinued, grab yourself the best Galaxy S20+ case and enjoy using it for years to come!Best Galaxy S20+ case for most peopleSpigen Liquid Air ArmorStaff pick$12 at Amazon$20 at SpigenSpigen makes one of the most popular single-layer cases on the market, the Rugged Armor, but the Liquid Air is not only a fresher look, but it's got much, much better grip thanks to that diamond texture across the back.Sustainable styleSamsung Kvadrat CoverFrom $35 at AmazonSamsung's branching out into eco-friendly cases this year, and the Kvadrat case is fine-looking and it feels even better. This case is made of recycled materials, is 100% compostable, and comes in green, grey, and red....

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 $50 with trade-inLenovo Tab P11: starting at $190Amazon Fire Tablet Kids Edition: buy two, save 25%With 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 pri...

Most of us depend on our phones to keep track of time. Whether you need to set an alarm, timer, or just want to have a look and see what time it is, our phone has become the de facto watch of the 21st century. As such, it's that much more annoying when the time on your Android phone gets messed up. If your device is showing the incorrect time, here are a few tips on how to fix the time on your Android phone to help get your life back on schedule.The following screenshots and steps were done on Android 12, but can be followed on Android 11. Some UI elements might look different depending on the phone you have, but the core flow of everything is mostly the same. Unfortunately, Samsung phones don't have the option to change time zones.How to manually set your phone's timeBy default, your phone picks up the time automatically based on its cellular/Wi-Fi connection. This usually works perfectly fine, but it is possible to trip it up now and then for many reasons.Should that happen...

The company says OpenXR is how Facebook adds new features, not break old ones.What you need to knowFacebook is only sunsetting development APIs, not runtimes, in favor of the OpenXR API in future updates.Existing software is expected to continue working as it currently does, including SteamVR compatibility with Quest headsets.Oculus says that newer versions of Unity and Unreal engines already include OpenXR support, making the transition straightforward for developers.Last week's announcement that Facebook was killing off its proprietary PC VR APIs came as a surprise in several ways. Moving to OpenXR meant that Facebook was finally joining other vendors, like Valve, in adopting the new industry standard for VR development. But not everyone was convinced that this move was a good thing, namely that Oculus was dropping support for these APIs after just a year.We touched base with Facebook and got clarification on the company's goals with the move to OpenXR, specifically in ...

So, you've picked up the Google Pixel 5 and you're looking for the perfect case. If you want to minimize the number of things you carry around in your pockets, you should consider getting the best Pixel 5 wallet case. That way your credit cards, ID, and loose cash are all stored with your phone. Oh, and don't forget to pick up one of the best Google Pixel 5 screen protectors while you're at it. Without further ado, here are the best Google Pixel 5 wallet cases.Simple eleganceFeitenn Pixel 5 Wallet CaseStaff PickWith slots for up to three credit cards, a cash pocket, and a flip cover that closes with a snap, this wallet case is sure to provide everything you need.$10 at AmazonPaint the town redArae Case for Google Pixel 5This gorgeous wallet case offers four credit card slots, along with a money pocket for any loose change or bills. On top of that, the case doubles as a stand so you can prop up your phone hands-free when you're watching YouTube. Get it in black or ...

It has to do with the foam pad.You might have heard that Facebook has halted sales of the Oculus Quest 2 for a month and issued a voluntary recall. You might have also heard about a 128GB Oculus Quest 2 that's replacing the 64B SKU without raising the $299 price. But why, you ask, and what do you need to do about it? Here's everything you need to know about the Oculus Quest 2 recall and foam replacement program.What is happening?Back in December 2020, some users reported skin irritation with the foam pad included in the box with the Quest 2. After an internal investigation, Facebook found that claims of contact dermatitis on the portions of some users' faces that came into contact with the foam pad were true. After consulting with dermatologists, it was determined that this was not an allergy, rather, a design flaw that made the foam pads a bit too abrasive for sensitive skin areas.Facebook followed up this investigation with a voluntary program where users could request re...

Android 13's codename may be a nod to coffee-lovers.What you need to knowGoogle may have already given Android 13 an internal codename.The codename, spotted in the AOSP, appears to be "Tiramisu," after the popular coffee-flavored dessert.Google stopped publicly naming Android versions after desserts with Android 10.Android 13 may be a ways off, but it looks like Google is already laying the groundwork for its next major release after Android 12, starting with the codename.A commit on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) was spotted (via XDA-Developers) that appears to disclose the name of Google's next version of Android. The commit indicated that Android 13 would be given the designation "Tiramisu," after the classic coffee-flavored Italian dessert: PLATFORM_VERSION_CODENAME is being updated from T to Tiramisu.If this is the internal designation, it's unlikely that Google will refer to Android 13 publicly as "Tiramisu." While Android was known for its sweet dess...

Today's phones and tablets are more powerful than ever, but despite more power-efficient processors, it's not uncommon to find yourself needing to charge up at times when you aren't near a wall outlet with a portable charger or power bank. A high-capacity battery pack that is 20,000 mAh and higher is ideal for people that need a lot of juice while on the go, and while they may not fit into your pocket, they're necessary for keeping your devices topped off. Our top pick is the RAVPower 90W Power Delivery Portable Charger. Here's why it's the best high-capacity power bank, along with other great alternatives if you need something even bigger.Best overall: RAVPower 90W Power Delivery Portable ChargerRAVPower has some of the best prices for power banks on the market, especially considering the high build quality and the 30,000mAh capacity of this model — and that's before you factor in sales, which happen at least once a month. Also included is a 5Amp-capable cable in the box so ...

Google Wifi isn't the worst looking option when considering the best WiFi routers, and it's pretty easy to stick it anywhere in your house without offending anyone. However, every home is different, and you might want something a little more elegant and organized than just plonking a node down on a window sill. Thanks to its popularity and the fact it's a pretty simple shape, there are plenty of options out there for mounting the Google Wifi to a wall or even a ceiling.Power upDot Genie Google Wifi Outlet HolderStaff PickIf you want your router flush with your power plug, this mount is for you. You can wrap and hide the power cable around the inside of the mount, so it isn't seen, and the weight of the router is easily supported by the power plug and your wall. Finally, there's an opening at the bottom for plugging in an Ethernet cable.From $9 at AmazonEasy peasyWall Mount Holder for Google Wifi by KoroaoThis mount makes it super easy to hang your router on a wall...

You're owed a free Quest 2 facial cover if the foam is making you itch.Facebook recently initiated a recall of current Oculus Quest 2 models, citing a skin irritation issue caused by the foam facial liner on the inside of the device. It's also halted sales of the Quest 2 while a new model without the foam is being produced. Oculus is now producing a silicone facial cover for users to purchase to replace their foam covers.If you're already an Oculus Quest 2 owner, you can request a replacement facial cover made of silicone. Oculus has instructions on the product recall page, and it's a relatively simple process.Go to the Oculus store page for the silicone cover and click the blue Redeem button.Log into your Oculus/Facebook account. You'll be redirected to the My Devices page.In the Quest 2's box on the Devices list, you should see a button next to the device that says Request Silicone Cover. Click that.You have to fill out an order form about your version of the device, ...

The Google TV app is currently available only in the U.S.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out a major update to the Google TV app for Android.The update brings a revamped UI, more personalized recommendations, and support for additional streaming services.Android users in the U.S. will now be able to access on-demand content from YouTube TV, Philo, and fuboTV.The Google TV app for Android is getting a new update with a fresh new interface, better recommendations, and YouTube TV integration.Movie and show posters are now shown in a new 16:9 aspect ratio to give them a more "cinematic look." Discovering good content on the app is also easier, as you'll see Rotten Tomatoes scores under each poster. You can even help Google fine-tune recommendations in your "For You" tab by marking movies and shows as "watched" on the best Android phones.Along with a fresh new UI, Google has made improvements to its recommendation system to help you find content that suits your intere...

Perfect for familiesLenovo Tab P11 PlusSee at LenovoProsDedicated space for kidsDedicated space for entertainment appsCertified for Netflix HD streaming Comes with Amazon Music Unlimited trialConsSmaller, lower resolution screenNot as powerful processorMuch thicker than the ProThe Lenovo Tab P11 Plus is a worthwhile option if you plan to share the tablet among the whole family thanks to the dedicated zones, including one specifically for Kids that provides them with their own dedicated login. Its specs, for the most part, go head-to-head with the P11 Pro.Powerful workhorseLenovo Tab P11 Pro$520 at AmazonProsBigger, higher resolution OLED screenPowerful processorThree options to choose fromUltra-thin designConsOnly one finish optionSignificantly less battery lifeThe specs are very similar between the Lenovo Tab P11 Pro and the Plus, but the Plus has more features dedicated to families whereas the P11 Pro seems designed for singl...

Activision Blizzard is being investigated by the state of California for sexist practices. Turns out, they appear to be yet another game developer with a toxic workplace. We also have our reviews of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD and Pokémon Unite.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Activision Blizzard (Call of Duty, WoW) is being investigated for sexist workplace practices | Windows CentralThe Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD for Nintendo Switch review — Improvements can't help this remake from still falling short | iMorePokémon Unite for Nintendo Switch review: A great introduction to the MOBA genre | iMore...

Control Ultimate Edition also launches today in the Stadia store.What you need to knowStadia Pro members can play another two games for free this weekend only.The two games are Marvel's Avengers and Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game.Control Ultimate Edition launches on the Stadia store today.Stadia Pro subscribers can enjoy two free games to play this weekend only alongside another new game joining the store today, Google announced on its Stadia Community blog.Those with a Stadia Pro subscription can play Square Enix's Marvel's Avengers and Sega's recently released Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game this weekend only. The free weekend begins on Thursday, July 29 at 9 a.m. PT and ends at the same time on Monday, August 2.Marvel's Avengers received new cosmetic packs for each of its heroes last week and both editions of the game are currently on sale, alongside some of the best Stadia games in the store, until Wednesday, July 28. Meanwhile, ...

Qualcomm is one of Intel's biggest competitors, and that makes it an ideal situation.What you need to knowIntel announced a new node process for building chips.The new 20A process includes Intel's first new architecture in 10 years as it fights to regain its spot as a top chipmaker.Intel will be using its new process to build future Qualcomm chips.Intel has unveiled its plans to regain its spot as a top chipmaker and has managed to make Qualcomm an integral part of its roadmap.As part of its plan to supercharge its chip business, Intel Foundry Services will use a new 20A node process that includes its first new architecture design in a decade. Intel says that RibbonFet promises faster switching speeds "while achieving the same drive current as multiple fins in a smaller footprint." It's coupled with the company's new PowerVia technology for backside power delivery to help make chips more efficient.The new process node isn't expected to be ready until 2024. Still, Intel ...

Technology has come a long way since flip phones. These days, devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 and the Motorola Razr truly put the years past in perspective. They can be folded to keep them pocket-sized yet when unfolded, they allow for more screen real estate than most other smartphones on the market. It's been quite a while since the last major innovation in mobile devices brought us full touchscreen devices; now, folding phones are making the next big leap with displays that seem like they belong only in the future.Best Folding Phone Deals Available NowUnlocked Deals: starting at $410Carrier deals: Trade-ins, BOGO & more Which to buy?Microsoft Surface Duo | Free at AT&TAT&T has Microsoft's Surface Duo discounted by up to $700 right now when you trade-in an eligible device and choose an Unlimited plan. That means you could get the 128GB model in your hands for free, though the offer may not last for long.Shop at AT&TThe folding phone ...

There are several reasons why you might want to automate your home heating and air conditioning systems with one of the best smart thermostats for Alexa. Connected smart thermostats are an excellent investment whether for convenience, energy efficiency, or that "cool" factor. If you are in the Amazon ecosystem, there are a growing number of great options. The ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control is our top choice because it has Alexa built-in, includes a room sensor, and is easy to use.Best overall smart thermostat for Alexa: ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice ControlBelieve it or not, it's only been a couple of years since ecobee launched the ecobee4 with Alexa built-in. Before that, we had to talk to Alexa from another device, like cave people! But in all seriousness, the concept was a hit. And now, ecobee has followed up on the success of the ecobee4 with its newer SmartThermostat with Voice Control, which is comparable to the popular Google-friendly Nest Thermostat.So...

When your pockets are too small — or you don't have any at all — neckband earbuds are a convenient alternative to wearing larger over-ear or on-ear headphones. They lay around your neck and take away the weight from the earbuds for a more comfortable fit. If you're looking for a dependable pair, the JBL Live 220BT Wireless are a good place to start for the best neckband headphones under $100, owing to their exceptional sound, battery life, and comfort.Best overall: JBL Live 220BT WirelessJBL made the Live 220BT good enough to stay at the top of our list, mainly because of its superb sound quality. You get a pretty balanced soundstage out of the box that stands out for the right reasons. Bass is present without it being too heavy, while the highs and lows complement each other well.Finding the right fit will largely depend on which of the ear tips you feel offer the best seal. This part is critical to ensuring they fit right and getting the most out of the audio quality. ...

Compact Wi-Fi 6 meshTP-Link Deco X20$250 at AmazonProsGreat 5,800 sq ft of coverageAX1800 speedsHomeCare is freeCompact and attractive nodesConsDual-band connection will limit mesh performanceOnly two Ethernet per nodeThe Deco X20 is a great compact node with enough performance for most people and support for Wi-Fi 6. This system also comes with TP-Link HomeCare software which includes advanced parental controls and improved network security. Your Deco mesh is also easy to expand with support for all other Decos, including faster versions.Tri-band performanceMeshforce M7$219 at AmazonProsImpressive 6,000 sq ft of coverageTri-band AC2100 connectionDedicated backhaul3 LAN ports per nodeConsLacks advanced parental controlsNo Wi-Fi 6The Meshforce M7 is a nicely thought out mesh system with a tri-band AC2100 connection enabling consistent speeds thanks to a dedicated mesh link. Each node includes three Ethernet ports, making it easy ...

ExpressVPN Why choose ExpressVPNExpressVPN is one of the biggest names in the VPN space right now. The company offers wide coverage, amazing customer support, fast speeds, and much more. Simply put: ExpressVPN is the VPN provider to beat right now.Works withMacWindowsAndroidiPhone & iPadLinuxRoutersBest VPN forNetflix, Hulu, Disney+ and streamingGamingTorrenting and downloadingSecurity and privacySee at ExpressVPNProsSuperb 24/7 live chat customer serviceFast connectionsLots of international locationsNetflix unblockingConsNot as cheap as some othersLimited to five connections simultaneouslyExpressVPN is one of the longest standing virtual private network services out there and is widely regarded as one of the best VPN services. Based in the British Virgin Islands, the company started ...

With so many phones becoming affordable unlocked, the best prepaid phones look a lot like the best phones in general. Technically, almost any phone can be a prepaid phone these days — that is, just about any phone can be financed or bought outright and used on a prepaid network. This includes nearly all of the best Android phones you can get. Still, most prepaid shoppers are looking for a value offering, so we've compiled some of the best phones that will work with the major prepaid carriers under $350. The Google Pixel 4a is the best prepaid phone overall thanks to its fast hardware, great camera, and consistent software updates.Best overall: Google Pixel 4aThe Google Pixel series of phones is the purest Android experience you can get. The Pixel 4a follows up the 3a in offering great performance and a flagship-level camera for a great price. This includes Google's great camera app with features like Night Sight. This phone supports just about every network out there and with...

"Fitbit's upcoming "Morgan" could be the first Charge series tracker to come equipped with a color screen.What you need to knowA new leak gives us our first look at Fitbit's next fitness tracker.The device is codenamed "Morgan" and is expected to be a follow-up to the Charge 4. It is tipped to come with a color screen and support for NFC payments. If a new leak is to be believed, the Fitbit Charge 5 will be a significant upgrade over the Charge 4, which is one of the best fitness trackers on the market. The folks over at 9to5Google have accessed a render of an upcoming Fitbit tracker codenamed "Morgan," believed to be the Fitbit Charge 4 successor.The render reveals the upcoming tracker will look a lot like the Fitbit Luxe. Like the Luxe, "Morgan" will have a color screen with rounded corners and relatively thick bezels. It also looks like the fitness tracker will not have any physical buttons.Although the exact size is yet to be revealed, the renders suggest the wearab...

Not only are the best smart LED light bulbs more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, but you'll feel like Tony Stark walking through your home, controlling the lighting with just your voice. Google Home is one of the tentpole home assistant platforms, and all of the bulbs listed here pair perfectly with all of the best Google Home compatible devices available. All you need to ask yourself as a consumer is how many bulbs you need for your home and how much are you willing to spend?Full-feature smart lightsTo experience the best that smart LED lights can offer, you'll want to start with ones that are entirely customizable with the full spectrum of colors available. Because these bulbs are way more expensive than any light bulb you've probably bought in your life, you're going to want to choose a brand that can satisfy all your smart lighting needs or piece together your house plan with bulbs that don't need a hub.Light your home with colorPhilips Hue Color Sma...

Facebook has halted sales based on a skin irritation issue caused by the foam pads.What you need to knowFacebook has halted sales of the Oculus Quest 2 until further notice, citing reports of skin irritation caused by the foam pad.Facebook previously recalled foam pads on older Oculus Quest 2 units after the results of an internal investigation.New Quest 2 units will ship with a silicone wrap to solve any future problems.Facebook is also debuting a new 128GB version of the Quest 2 to replace the existing 64GB model.Article updated with additional information and confirmation from Facebook.Facebook has ceased sales of the Oculus Quest 2, citing skin irritation issues reported by users since the Quest 2 debuted. On a blog post, Head of Facebook Reality Labs Andrew Bosworth details that Facebook worked with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Health Canada to issue a voluntary recall of current Quest 2 foam facial covers and will be providing a new silico...

Get ready for an all new Marvel-tastic adventure.Developer Netmarble announced the upcoming Marvel Future Revolution at PAX East 2020, the follow-up to its successful Marvel Future Fight. This time, players will be able to explore an open world using one of eight popular Marvel heroes — wearing a variety of fun and weird costumes — as they battle some of their nemeses. Here's everything we know so far about Marvel Future Revolution and what you can expect.Jump to:Development and revealStory and settingGameplayRelease dateMobile open-world MarvelMarvel Future RevolutionSee at Google Play StoreCheck out those costumesMarvel and Netmarble have teamed up again to bring an all-new adventure to mobile. This time, take up the mantle of one of four heroes and battle supervillains in an open-world environment.Development and revealMarvel Future Revolution is a collaboration between Netmarble and Marvel that was announced at PAX East 2020. The two hav...

Your PS5's ultra-fast SSD storage is great for quickly navigating across games, screenshots, video clips, and other media. Still, crashes are always a concern for any modern hardware. That's where backups come in. By backing up your data, you can make sure your saved games, screenshots, and more are secure should the worst come. Here's how to backup data and restore your PS5.How to backup data and restore your PS5Power up your PS5 and sign in.Go to Settings.Now, select System.Select Back Up and Restore.To backup your data, select Back Up Your PS5.Insert your USB drive into the PS5.Now, you'll need to choose the type of data to back up. Make sure you have enough space on the USB drive.Select Next. You'll be prompted to finalize your choice and begin the backup process.Once the process has finished, remove the USB drive from the PS5.That takes care of backing up your important data. Hopefully, your PS5 doesn't run into any issues, but in the event it does, here...

Chromebooks make great computers for kids for many reasons, and it's partially why so many schools use Chromebooks in the classroom. If your child doesn't already have one, there five things to know about buying your child a Chromebook, and once you have those things considered, you're ready to pick up one of the best Chromebooks for kids. Whether you already have a device for your child or need to buy one, we're here to help you set up a Chromebook for kids in no time.How to set up a Chromebook for a kidSetting up a Chromebook for a child is a relatively straightforward process and can be done in a few minutes — let's get into it.Turn on the Chromebook.Click on Add person at the bottom of the screen.Choose A child when asked whom you're adding.If your child already has a Google account, click on Sign in with a child's Google Account, if not Create a Google Account for a child which will do so through Family Link.With a Google Account for your child ready, enter that...

In a wide-ranging executive order released in early July, U.S. President Joe Biden made a call to the Federal Communications Commission to reinstate net neutrality rules that would require companies to treat all internet traffic equally. Net neutrality is important, some experts say, but its importance is cyclical, coming and going with different seasons. They say that consumers should be paying attention to what happens now, but they shouldn't be too worried about it.The Biden administration has seen the digital divide grow over the past year as the COVID-19 pandemic affected households across the country. Admin officials say that the lack of competition is what is causing this divide.The administration believes that reinstating the net neutrality rules adopted in 2015 under former President Barack Obama will ensure that big broadband companies do not abuse their power over their networks. Those rules were repealed under a Republican-led FCC during the Trump administration."Bi...

On a seemingly random Friday when all the world was about to tune into the Olympics, Facebook announced that they would be deprecating Oculus's proprietary APIs in favor of using the OpenXR standard going forward. On the surface, this seems like news to celebrate. After all, moving away from proprietary APIs that only work with one company's hardware, to open standards accepted by the industry at large, is a good thing. Right?Generally speaking, yes. Facebook's move will be a net positive for game development going forward. OpenXR support should make it easier for games like Minecraft to make the leap from Oculus-exclusive on the PC to other VR platforms, even if it just means that more headsets can run the game without hackery. It also means that Oculus-exclusive games, like the upcoming Lone Echo II, could follow in the footsteps of games like Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond — a game that was Oculus-funded but debuted on the Oculus and Steam stores on PC.But what might look ...

Harish, Alex, Jerry, and Ara check out the OnePlus Nord 2 and evaluate continued rumors of a foldable Pixel. They also chat about carrier adoption of the RCS messaging standard and companies like Apple who remain holdouts in favor of their own technology. They finish out with the whys and hows of buggy software releases, including a UK vaccine passport app that caused a giant bag of hurt.Listen nowSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: AudioSubscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:OnePlus Nord 2 review: Taking back the mid-range crown | Android CentralRumored Google Pixel foldable could launch this year with Samsung's best display tech | Android CentralVerizon follows AT&T, T-Mobile to make Google Messages its default messaging app | Android CentralUK vaccine passport app produces broken QR codes on popular Android phones | Android CentralSponsors:Indeed: Choose Indeed and join 3 million companies worldwide who use Indeed to hire gr...

It's not as difficult as it may appear at first — just remember to increase your Electrograna level at the Sacred Sakura tree.Anyone wandering around Inazuma in Genshin Impact has likely come across what appear to be seemingly impenetrable Thunder Barriers. These electro-magnified forcefields keep everything out, but you can actually pass through them if you know what to do. So don't fret if you've been confused as to why you aren't able to break these barriers. We'll guide you through every step you need to take so that you'll be collecting those treasures in no time.With Genshin Impact now supporting cross-save, you can start playing on your PS5 and transition to one of the best Android phones without losing any progress.How to pass through Thunder Barriers in Genshin ImpactFind an Electrogranum near the barrier. These look like small trees with a purple glow surrounding them.Interact with it and you'll see a small purple orb follow your character.Quickly run throu...

I'm sure I'm not alone here, but aside from losing a child momentarily at the supermarket, I've never been more scared recently than when I thought I lost my phone. You may think that's hyperbole or a ridiculous commentary on modern times but just think about all that is on our phones these days: credit card and banking information, family photos, business information, and more. Thankfully, big players like Google and Samsung have built-in features that let you locate your phone, ping it, and even erase its data if need be. I'll show you how to use both Samsung's Find My Mobile, SmartThings Find, and Google's Find My Device to keep tabs on your devices so that you have control, even when they're out of your possession.How to set up Find My Mobile and SmartThings Find on your Galaxy phoneIf you want to know how to use Find My Mobile to locate your lost Samsung Galaxy phone, I strongly encourage you to make sure that you have enabled Find My Mobile and SmartThings Find on your Gala...

The best Android phones can do just about anything these days — did you know they can even make phone calls, but you probably want to learn how to block incoming calls, right? You've probably gotten your fair share of spam calls in the last few years, and many carriers are actively working to prevent spam and "robocalls" from happening, but some people don't want to receive calls at all. Whether you use VoIP services, carry a work phone that only needs access to data, or prefer texting over calling, here's how you can quickly disable all incoming calls from ringing your phone.Get familiar with Do Not Disturb modeDo Not Disturb has been available since the release of Android Marshmallow way back in 2015. This feature makes it so you can either temporarily (or permanently) disable notifications from coming through. With Do Not Disturb enabled, you can set various rules and schedules for your phone to follow, muting notifications for certain contacts, time periods, and more.The ...

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics are happening now!After the Tokyo Olympics were postponed last year due to the pandemic, things are back on. The time has come when the people you didn't know were into sports suddenly spring into action and start cheering on their countries in various sports events. There's been some drama in the lead-up to the big event, but the opening ceremony went off without a hitch, and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are now underway. So, naturally, we want to know if you're tuning in to watch!Are you planning on watching the 2020 Summer Olympic Games?There are a few ways you can go about watching the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Most notably, the event is hosted by NBC, meaning your best way to catch the games is with the NBC Peacock app. Chromecast with Google TV owners can find this and other apps broadcasting the Olympics on the For You tab.YouTube TV subscribers can easily tune into NBCUniversal's live coverage of the games. You can even catch the even in glorious 4K tha...

Using BitTorrent and torrenting files without a VPN is the worst thing you can do. Torrenting is a relatively risky thing to do at the best of times, but without a VPN protecting you, your online identity is shared with everyone who is also torrenting the same files as you.Torrent files behind one of the best VPNs and you won't have to worry about your IP address or location being shared amongst others. All the data you share or receive will be completely encrypted and your connection will be secure.Best Torrenting VPN 20211. ExpressVPN: Best all-round VPN for torrenting2. NordVPN: An excellent choice for torrenting and P2P3. CyberGhost: Stylish, easy-to-use apps4. Windscribe: Unlimited device support5. TunnelBear: A newbie-friendly torrenting VPN1. ExpressVPN: Best all-round VPN for torrenting everything elseThis is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of speed, reliability, outstanding customer service, and afforda...