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Updated 2025-07-04 10:32
Here's every game you get for free on Google Stadia Pro right now
Google launched Stadia a little over a year ago, giving players access to some of their favorite games without having to own a console or gaming PC. While Stadia can be used as a free service, Google does offer a Stadia Pro membership for $9.99/month, which gives subscribers access to special discounts, upgraded 4K streaming options, as well as one or more free games to claim per month. Once you claim a game in Pro, it's yours to keep as long as you're subscribed, similar to how PlayStation Plus works.The free games with Pro can then be played as long as your Stadia Pro subscription is active, but are only available to be claimed for a limited time, so make sure you're checking back every month as we update the list of games available. If you cancel or suspend your Pro subscription and then decide to resubscribe in the future, all previously claimed games will return to your library. Some of the best Stadia games have been offered on Pro in the past so make sure you claim each game...
Take a look at the new PSVR for PS5 controllers
A complete redesign from the days of the Move.What you need to knowSony has revealed the look of the new PS5 VR controllers.These controllers feature DualSense-style adaptive triggers and haptic feedback.Tracking is done through a ring on the bottom of the controllers.This new PlayStation VR system won't be available in 2021. Sony has revealed a first look at the new controllers for the next version of PSVR designed for the PS5. As previously mentioned when Sony first discussed details of this new VR system earlier in the year, the controllers feature the DualSense haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, as well as enhanced tracking and finger touch detection.You can take a look at some alternate angles of the controllers in the pictures below:The new headset, which is as yet unrevealed, will see similar improvements, with a higher resolution and FOV (field of view) to make players' experiences smoother than ever.There's still no release window or official name for ...
Is unlimited Google Photos storage enough for you to buy a current Pixel?
Chatting with the AC forums.Last November, Google updated its longstanding and generous Google Photos storage policies. With the change, all photos and videos uploaded after June 1, 2021, will now count towards your 15GB of free Google account storage. Photos uploaded before that time would not count against the storage.Pixel phone owners from generations 1-5 would continue to be exempt from the change as long as their devices were working and supported, though some confusion on this point has remained since the initial announcement. Thankfully, a Google Photos team member tweeted this week confirming that high-quality photo uploads (up to 16MP) from Pixel phones from 2 through 5 will continue to not count against one's Google account storage.HQ uploads from Pixels 2-5 will continue to be free and unlimited after June 1st. But uploads from other devices, including future Pixels, will count towards your Google account storage— Raja Ayyagari (@mindofraja) March 14, 2021This...
OnePlus CEO shares key details on the upcoming OnePlus 9R
The OnePlus 9R is expected to be the company's first budget offering for the Indian market.What you need to knowOnePlus CEO Pete Lau has revealed a few more details about the upcoming OnePlus 9R.With the OnePlus 9R, the company aims to provide a "robust flagship experience" at a more accessible price point.The OnePlus 9R is set to be unveiled alongside the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro on March 23.OnePlus will finally unveil its next-gen OnePlus 9 series flagship phones at a global launch event next week. The flagship OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro will be joined by a more budget-focused model called the OnePlus 9R. Ahead of the launch of the three phones, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau has revealed more details about the 9R in an interview with News18 Tech.Lau told the publication that it aims to cater to "different user requirements with the OnePlus 9R." Unlike the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro, which are premium devices, the 9R will deliver a "robust flagship experience" at a much more affordable price.When...
Review: It doesn't get more perfect than Anker's Charging Dock for Quest 2
Preventing dead batteries from ruining a good experience.The Oculus Quest 2 is one of the finest — if not the finest — ways to experience VR. Part of what makes it so great is the fact that you don't need to wire it up to a PC or console to play. This gives you true wireless freedom, but that freedom doesn't come without restrictions. Battery life is a huge concern for gamers who like to play for more than 2 hours at a time, but the Anker Charging Dock for Quest 2 is designed to solve that problem by giving you an easy way to keep your Quest 2 and its controllers charged at all time.Anker's solution is elegant in a way that most charging solutions are not. Packed inside is a special set of batteries and covers for each controller, each of which has Pogo pins on the outside for a dock-and-charge solution. The headset seemingly doesn't have such an easy solution, but the geniuses at Anker figured it out, regardless. A tiny metallic adapter fits right into the USB-C port on the ...
How to watch March Madness 2021 online from anywhere
Basketball fans around the world have had to wait almost two years to watch the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament or March Madness as it's usually referred to. Thankfully though, the tournament is back on this year and we have all the details on how you can watch all 67 games at March Madness 2021 on TV or online.Unlike in years past where the 68 teams participating in the tournament were split into four regions (East, South, Midwest and West), all of March Madness will take place in Indiana with the majority of games being played in Indianapolis. According to the NCAA, this year's games will be played at two courts inside Lucas Oil Stadium and Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Hinkle Fieldhouse, Indiana Farmers Coliseum, Mackey Arena, and Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Only one game will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium at a time while the other teams will practice at the Indiana Convention Center.Due to the fact the entire tournament will be held in Indiana, the NCAA has also changed...
Project Soli is an amazing innovation that's looking for a home
Google's Soli chip seems to have so much wasted potential.When Google first demonstrated its ATAP group's Project Soli concept, almost everyone who saw it was not only impressed but sure that this was going to be part of the future of the user interface. I can vividly remember my own excitement because this was something completely different and seemed like it was straight out of a movie. I couldn't wait to see Soli actually inside a Google hardware product.And then when it did happen on the Pixel 4, it was absolutely underwhelming. Sure, having hands-free controls that actually worked for your music player or to silence a call was a thing, but Soli's best feature was sensing your hand as you reached for the phone so it could start the facial recognition routine to unlock your screen. It worked but was a lot less spectacular than the original demonstration and hardly made the Pixel 4 one of the best Android phones.Soli isn't a new idea, but it takes one we're all familiar w...
ASUS is working on a flagship Android phone with a 5.9-inch 120Hz display
ASUS is expected to launch at least three ZenFone 8 series phones this year.What you need to knowASUS is reportedly working on a compact flagship Android phone.It is tipped to feature a 5.9-inch 120Hz AMOLED display and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 888 chipset.The ZenFone 8 Mini is expected to be unveiled alongside the ZenFone 8 and ZenFone 8 Pro sometime in Q3. Google recently updated its list of 'Play Services for AR' compatible devices and spilled the beans on a number of upcoming Android phones — including the ASUS ZenFone 8 Flip. More details about ASUS' upcoming ZenFone 8 series phones have now surfaced online, courtesy of the folks over at XDA Developers.As per the new report, the ZenFone 8 lineup will include a "Mini" model, which will offer flagship-grade specs in a compact form factor. XDA Recognized Developer Freak07 has discovered references to three upcoming flagship ASUS phones in the kernel source code for the ROG Phone 5: "SAKE," "PICASSO," and "VODKA." All thr...
Fitbit doesn't have to do a lot to make the Charge 5 a great wearable
I'll be ready to charge another Fitbit on my credit card if the Charge 5 sees a few minor improvements like these.Fitbit has had quite a busy 12 months or so. It extended its Fitbit Premium free trials during the COVID-19 pandemic, and added new workouts, reporting, and services, such as a new Mindful Method meditations with Deepak Chopra. The company announced its most advanced smartwatches ever in the Versa 3 and Sense, and continued to partner with and lead health research initiatives around COVID-19, heart health, and mental health. And let's not forget that Google's acquisition of Fitbit was finally approved and formalized.While those are all major accomplishments, Fitbit also announced two new devices in 2020 that were among the best fitness trackers you can buy, but that may have flown under the radar just a bit. Of course, I'm referring to the excellent the Inspire 2 and Charge 4 bands. As they are relatively basic trackers compared to the more complicated smartwatch offe...
Watch the final season of Keeping Up With The Kardashians online from anywh
The Kardashians and the Jenners are returning to TV for the final season of Keeping Up With The Kardashians (KUWTK) and we have all the details on how you can watch new episodes of the show online or on TV.Whether you're a long-time fan or haven't even watched the show, you've probably heard about the drama and antics of the Kardashian family. Back in 2007, Kourtney, Kim, and Khloé Kardashian along with their half-sisters Kendall and Kylie Jenner first appeared in their own reality TV show. The show, which was developed by executive producer Ryan Seacrest, has kept fans of the family entertained for 14 years now and season 20 will, unfortunately, be its last.While season 19 gave fans a glimpse of how the Kardashians dealt with being quarantined during the pandemic, season 20 will be all about new beginnings and endings just like the title of this season's first episode. For instance, Kim will be preparing for a test that will determine her career as a lawyer, Scott Disick is con...
How to watch Zack Snyder’s Justice League online from anywhere
For years now fans of DC's Justice League have wondered what the 2017 film would have been like if Joss Whedon hadn't stepped in to take over for Zack Snyder during the film's post-production phase. Well the wait is over as Zack Snyder's Justice League is set to premiere on HBO Max and we have all the details on how you can stream the new version of the film online.While Zack Snyder was there during the filming of Justice League, he eventually stepped down from his role following a family tragedy in 2017 and it was then that Joss Whedon took over the film's post-production. However, Whedon also worked on the film's script and rewrote a great deal of it while filming.Now though, DC comics fans will get to see Zack Snyder's original vision for Justice League in its entirety. Unlike the 2017 version of the film which had a runtime of 120 minutes or two hours, the Snyder Cut has a runtime of 242 minutes or just over four hours. This makes sense as streaming a four-hour film at home i...
Samsung's Galaxy S20 FE successor may launch a lot sooner than you think
The Galaxy S20 FE successor could debut at a 'Fan Edition' Unpacked event on August 19.What you need to knowA leaked Samsung product roadmap suggests the Galaxy S20 FE successor will debut at an Unpacked event in August.A more affordable version of the Galaxy Tab S7 is expected to debut in June. More budget-friendly 5G-enabled A series phones will also arrive in the second half of the year.Yesterday, Samsung revealed that it may not launch a new Galaxy Note phone this year due to the global semiconductor shortage. A leaked Samsung product roadmap has now been posted by reliable leaker Evan Blass, which suggests Samsung may launch the Galaxy S21 FE in August this year, instead of a new Note.While the launch date hasn't been set in stone yet, the leaked roadmap reveals the Fan Edition Unpacked event has been tentatively scheduled for August 19. A separate report from SamMobile claims the Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Galaxy Z Flip successors will also be launched sometime in the th...
Stream video to your device from anywhere in the world with these VPNs
The best streaming VPN will let you access video and other online content, no matter where you are. That means the likes of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube, and more can all have their geo-restrictions dodged so you can get your streaming video fill.Best streaming VPN 20211. ExpressVPN (From $6.67/mo)2. CyberGhost VPN (From $2.25/mo)3. NordVPN (From $3.71/mo)4. Surfshark VPN (From $2.49/mo)5. IPVanish (From $3.75/mo)That kind of sounds illegal, right? Well, in some cases it can be and, in others, it may well be against the terms of use of the service you are accessing. That being said, it is a super common use case for VPNs — whether you're abroad and want to stream Hulu from back home or you're in a region that is locked out of certain types of content. Ultimately, you'll want to exercise caution and think about what you are doing to ensure you stay safe during the process and don't break any rules.A VPN will allow you to appear somewhere you are ...
August and Yale smart locks now support remote biometric verification
Guests will be able to use biometric verification too, although you will have to upgrade their Access Level to "Owner."Update, March 18 (1:20 am ET): The biometric verification feature now works for Bluetooth operations as well.What you need to knowYou can now unlock your August or Yale smart lock remotely through a fingerprint or face scan.The feature is available for all August Smart Locks and Yale Assure Locks and Levers with Wi-Fi.August has also rolled out a new "Hide Entry Codes" feature to allow users to hide keypad entry codes within the app.If you own an August or Yale smart lock, you can now unlock your home as easily as you unlock your phone. August has rolled out a new feature for all August Smart Locks and Yale Assure Locks and Levers with Wi-Fi, which allows users to unlock their home remotely through a fingerprint or face scan.The feature will utilize the authentication tools on your phone to prompt fingerprint or facial recognition whenever you lock or u...
How to watch Zack Snyder’s Justice League online from anywhere
For years now fans of DC's Justice League have wondered what the 2017 film would have been like if Joss Whedon hadn't stepped in to take over for Zack Snyder during the film's post-production phase. Well the wait is over as Zack Snyder's Justice League is set to premiere on HBO Max and we have all the details on how you can stream the new version of the film online.While Zack Snyder was there during the filming of Justice League, he eventually stepped down from his role following a family tragedy in 2017 and it was then that Joss Whedon took over the film's post-production. However, Whedon also worked on the film's script and rewrote a great deal of it while filming.Now though, DC comics fans will get to see Zack Snyder's original vision for Justice League in its entirety. Unlike the 2017 version of the film which had a runtime of 120 minutes or two hours, the Snyder Cut has a runtime of 242 minutes or just over four hours. This makes sense as streaming a four-hour film at home i...
HBO Max will now count towards your data limit - AT&T blames net neutrality
AT&T says it's committed to the principles of an open internet. Yeah, okay.What you need to knowAT&T has announced that HBO Max will count towards its customer's data limit.The change is being made due to California's newly enacted net neutrality law.AT&T blames net neutrality while claiming to be committed to an open internet.Being able to stream movies and shows without using up your data was always a perk of being an AT&T customer, especially while more people are streaming from home these days. Unfortunately, that will soon come to an end, according to AT&T. The company announced in a blog post on Wednesday that it could no longer offer such serves due to California's newly enacted net neutrality law, meaning subscribers will no longer be able to stream HBO Max on phones like the new Samsung Galaxy S21 without it counting towards their data limit. We regret the inconvenience to customers caused by California's new "net neutrality" law. Given that...
The Play Store will speed up app installs by learning how you use your apps
Get ready for speedier installations from the Play Store.What you need to knowGoogle is preparing the Play Store for "app install optimization."The new feature will collect certain usage data to help speed up app installations.No identifying data will be collected, but users could opt-out of the service when it goes live.Owning an Android smartphone means there's a good chance you know how to install Android apps. It also means that with the more feature-rich apps being developed, installing and getting started on a new app can take a while, especially when using some of the best cheap Android phones. Google has been working on getting users into their favorite apps quicker, and the latest effort could come soon to the Play Store.9to5Google spotted references in the latest version of the Play Store to a new feature coming to the Play Store called "App install optimization." According to an associated support document, the service will crowdsource data on how users first i...
You can grab Horizon Zero Dawn: Complete Edition for free in April
Need more encouragement to keep playing at home? PlayStation has you covered.What you need to knowFlayStation Play at Home is a program from Sony offering free PS4 games to encourage players to stay at home right now.Nine new PS4 and PSVR games are being offered for free later in March.On April 19, Horizon Zero Dawn: Complete Edition will also be available for free. No PlayStation Plus account is needed to grab these games.Sony's PlayStation Play at Home program resumed earlier this year, with the 2016 Ratchet and Clank available for anyone to grab for free, as long as it is redeemed by March 31, 2021. Now, Sony has detailed a whole wave of PS4 and PSVR games that'll also be available for anyone to grab starting March 25, no PlayStation Plus account required.Here's the full list of games:AbzûEnter the GungeonRez InfiniteSubnauticaThe WitnessAstro Bot Rescue Mission (PSVR)Moss (PSVR)Thumper (PSVR)Paper Beast (PSVR)Finally, Horizon Zero Dawn: Complete Editio...
OnePlus Store app lands on the Play Store ahead of OnePlus 9 launch
You can finally stop trying to use the OnePlus website on your smartphone to order new phones.What you need to knowThe official OnePlus Store app is now avaialble in North America.You can use the Store app to pre-order the OnePlus 9 next week.OnePlus plans on introducing the 'OnePlus Club' offering rewards accessible in the Store app.While the hype train continues chugging along for the OnePlus 9 ahead of its official event next week, OnePlus is hoping to make your pre-order experience easier this time around. In previous years, if you wanted to pre-order one of the best Android phones, you would be limited to only using the company's website. This is not always the greatest experience for some, especially when it comes to attempting to survive the initial onslaught of many like-minded people attempting to pre-order the same devices.Thankfully, you won't have to worry about that frustration any longer, as the OnePlus Store app is now available in North America. The app is...
Here are the phones, PCs, and Fire TVs that support Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna started as an exclusive early access beta, but you can now stream its games without an official invitation on certain Fire TV devices with a Luna-compatible controller. As for playing on Android or iOS phones, computers, or other devices, there are specific hoops you'll need to jump through before you can start gaming. Here are the Amazon Luna-compatible devices available today.All Amazon Luna-compatible Fire TV devicesOnce you have updated to the latest version of FireOS, you'll have the option to download Luna and start playing, so long as you own one of the following Amazon streaming devices:Fire TV Stick LiteFire TV Stick (2nd & 3rd generation)Fire TV Stick 4KFire TV (3rd generation)Fire TV CubeToshiba Fire TV EditionInsignia Fire TV EditionThat means that most of the best Amazon Fire TV Sticks support Luna, but not the Amazon Fire TV (1st gen), Amazon Fire TV (2nd gen), or Fire TV Stick (1st gen). We believe the Fire TV Edition Soundbar is also ...
Android 12 Developer Preview 2 hands-on: One-handed mode is here!
Every day, we stray closer from the dark.It's been nearly a month since Google rolled out the first Android 12 Developer Preview, and I've been using it daily on my Pixel 5 since its release, with only a small handful of issues and bugs.Google promised once-a-month updates to its Developer Previews leading up to the first beta release, however, and right on cue, we have the second Developer Preview up and running. Of course, you don't need the best Android phone Google makes to run its pre-release software; this installs just fine on lower-end models like the Pixel 4a, as well.So what's changed with this second Developer Preview? Quite frankly, not much; if the first build wasn't tempting enough to flash onto your personal phone (which, to be clear, you probably shouldn't do), this one likely won't be any different. But even small changes are changes nonetheless, and we've broken down what's new.Jump to:Aesthetic changesImproved picture-in-picture videoBetter support f...
Here's all the PlayStation Indies announcements from today
Seven very different experiences from independent creators.What you need to knowSony showcased seven indie games as part of PlayStation Indies today.The games include a mix of PS4, PS5 and PSVR titles.A few games are being aimed to be available in the next few months.PlayStation Indies is Sony's push for indie games on PlayStation platforms, headed up by Shuhei Yoshida. Today, Sony shared details on seven upcoming indie titles. Here's all the PS4 and PS5 games shown off today.Operation: Tango is all about an agent and a hackerThe power of perspective is explored in Operation: Tango, a game about two opposites working together to save the world. It's coming to PlayStation consoles later in spring.Chicory: A Colorful Tale tasks you with painting the worldChicory: A Colorful Tale comes to PS4 and PS5 in the spring and is all about painting color back into the world.Cook up unique dishes in Nour: Play With Your FoodNour: Play With Your Food is a cooking ...
OnePlus phones in China may soon ditch HydrogenOS for OPPO's ColorOS 11
OnePlus might be switching up its approach in China to better match OPPO.What you need to knowOnePlus is reportedly ceasing the development of its China-exclusive HydrogenOS.A notice to users states that OnePlus devices in China will switch over to OPPO's ColorOS.OnePlus devices outside of China will continue to use OxygenOS.There's a lot going on with OnePlus this month. The company is preparing the launch of its highly-anticipated OnePlus 9 smartphones along with its first smartwatch, the OnePlus Watch. Meanwhile, its parent company has just released its stylish OPPO Find X3 as it takes the reins as the top smartphone OEM in China. While the two companies have always shipped with their own distinct software offerings, things may be changing soon for OnePlus users in China.According to reports from XDA-Developers, OnePlus is preparing to halt the development of HydrogenOS, which is its China-exclusive alternative to OxygenOS. This came from a notice on an official OnePlu...
Here's how to get your friends together with group chats in Telegram
Telegram isn't new, but that doesn't mean that it isn't one of the best text messaging apps for Android available, and that's thanks in large part to its growing list of features. Whether it's to plan a party or to just catch up with some friends, group chats are an integral part of texting — so knowing how to create a group chat in Telegram is critical. Group chats can save time in planning and help keep that group of friends close to everyone in the same conversation. Let's get to the steps for creating your group chats in Telegram and get on with chatting.How to create group chats in TelegramOpen the Telegram app.Either click on the three lines in the upper left corner or the pencil icon lower right corner.Choose new group.Select the contacts you want to be members of that group and tap the arrow at the bottom of the screen.Here, you can add a photo or image and also a name to represent the group, tap on the checkmark to finish.Just as an FYI, creating a group wi...
New gallery view in Google Lens makes it easier to pull up your screenshots
Google Lens no longer makes you scour through your files to access images.What you need to knowGoogle Lens adopts a new gallery view to access photos.The new update offers easier access to screenshots and other images without making users soft through their files.Google Lens' gallery view should be available on the beta version of the Google app.Google Lens is a handy application that's baked into the Google app and into the camera app for some smartphones like the Google Pixel 5 and LG Wing, providing quick access to information with just a tap of your camera. Even more useful is that the app lets you search for information on photos in your own photo gallery, in case you need clarification on something later on. The latest update to Google Lens now makes it easier to access those photos.As pointed out by 9to5Google, when you tap on the gallery button on the bottom left, the app will open to a new gallery view instead of having users navigate the device files. The new vi...
You have four reliable controller options for Amazon Luna gaming
Best answer: The Luna Controller, Xbox One Controller, DualShock 4 Wireless Controller, PC mouse and keyboard, are all Amazon Luna compatible controllers. Other third-party Bluetooth controllers may require downloaded drivers to work or may not support all Luna features or mapped buttons.Very few functional options (for now)You can technically pair nearly any Bluetooth controller to Amazon Luna-compatible devices, either via Bluetooth or via a USB-C cable with data transfer. But unless Luna has been specifically optimized for that controller's software, you may find that the controller doesn't work properly. Only the Luna, Xbox, and PS4 controllers can be fully trusted.For example, we successfully paired a PS5 DualSense controller to an Amazon Fire Stick, only to find that the Square button corresponded to "A," the "X" button to "B," L2 to L1, and L1 to R1, at which point we stopped checking and unpaired it. While you could technically adjust your thinking and just press differ...
Disco Elysium: The Final Cut rolls onto PS4 and PS5 on March 30
Get some painkillers and solve crimes, while maybe providing political insights.What you need to knowDisco Elysium: The Final Cut is coming to PS4 and PS5.It adds full voice acting to the game, as well as new Political Vision Quests.The game also takes advantage of the DualSense haptic feedback when forming thoughts in the Thought Cabinet.As part of today's PlayStation Indies promotion, we've learned that Disco Elysium: The Final Cut is coming to PS4 and PS5 on March 30. The Final Cut includes full voice acting, as well as new content in the form of Political Vision Quests. These mutually-exclusive quests allow players to take a look "behind the political posturing" that much of the game is focused on.Disco Elysium from ZA/UM is a role-playing game where players take on the role of a hungover detective that can't remember anything but needs to solve a murder mystery. The game revolves around skill checks for everything, meaning there's a ton of ways to accidentally find i...
Power up all over with two Anker PowerWave wireless charging stands for $30
Smartphones just don't want to stay charged, do they? What you need is more ways to charge them no matter where you go. That's why you should grab this 2-pack of Anker PowerWave wireless charging stands on sale for $29.99 at Amazon. The stands normally sell for around $36, and they have not gone on sale much recently. The last major price drop was back in August, so you're saving a big chunk today and getting a deal we haven't seen in several months.The idea of having a two-pack is so you can use one stand at home and use one stand somewhere else, like at work. Personally, I just want a stand in every room of the house so I can charge wherever I happen to be. And since it sits at an angle, I can still surf Twitter or watch shows while the battery continues to charge up. With these stands, you can place your phone in landscape mode or portrait mode and continue charging while you continue to do whatever it was you were doing when you got that Low Power message.While it doesn't com...
OnePlus Watch confirmed not to run Wear OS, will offer 'great battery life'
Wear OS just didn't cut it for the OnePlus Watch.What you need to knowOnePlus CEO has confirmed that the upcoming smartwatch will not run Wear OS.The OnePlus Watch will run RTOS with a focus on connectivity with other OnePlus devices.More information about the OnePlus Watch will be revealed on March 23rd.Who needs leaks when the company is spilling the beans on its products before launch? In a similar fashion to how LG launches its smartphones, OnePlus has been teasing its upcoming OnePlus 9 smartphones, posting images and divulging new information via blog posts. OnePlus CEO Pete Lau has been pretty active on the community forum, answering questions about products like the upcoming OnePlus Watch. On Wednesday, he confirmed a major piece of news regarding the watch; it won't run Wear OS.In a community blog post, OnePlus went over some of its inspiration for creating its first smartwatch, which was to build an affordable device that seamlessly connects with all its devices...
Android 12 Developer Preview 2 is here and it's all about small changes
Small changes adding up.What you need to knowGoogle has released the second Android 12 developer preview today.This update focuses on refining some multi-tasking tools, including lockscreen notifications and picture-in-picture mode.Another change in this build will let developers build apps that take full advantage of the screen real estate in phones which have rounded corners. Google is rolling out the second developer preview of Android 12 today. As expected, there aren't many consumer-facing features here, it's more tweaks to the underlying core experience and APIs changes for developers. However, some of the tweaks here do add a bit of veracity to earlier reports about what to be being expected in Android 12, so let's go over them briefly.Here's what's being highlighted: Extended security for lockscreen notifications: Enabling developers to configure notifications on the lockscreen to always require user authentication. Improvements to Picture in Picture mod...
Should you buy the Garmin Vivoactive 4 or Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2?
Everything you need and moreSamsung Galaxy Watch Active 2From $199 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart-rate monitoringActivity, sleep, and stress trackingECG and blood pressure monitoringRunning CoachConsShorter battery lifeNew model coming soonIf you want a fitness-focused watch that comes with endless perks, you'll appreciate the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2. You get optional LTE, GPS, activity and sleep tracking, heart-rate monitoring, ECG, Samsung Pay, and music storage.Lifestyle and fitness combinedGarmin Vivoactive 4From $257 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSActivity, sleep, and stress trackingHeart-rate monitoringPulse Ox and Body BatteryOn-screen workoutsConsNo LTE connectivityNo ECG or blood pressure monitoringThose who are searching for a fitness watch that offers plenty of lifestyle features should look no further than the Garmin Vivoactive 4. You get GPS, activity and sleep tracking, heart-rate monitoring, Garmin Pay, music stor...
The best replacement bands for your 46mm Galaxy Watch
The Galaxy Watch is still one of the best Samsung smartwatches, even if it is getting along in years, and it deserves one of the best Samsung Galaxy watchbands. Not only to keep it secured to your wrist but also to help customize it to you. The watch allows you to choose from several watch faces to get the right look for the screen, but you can easily replace the strap using a standard 22mm watch band for the 46mm Galaxy Watch to make it even more you.Meshes with everyoneFullmosa stainless steel watch bandStaff PickSometimes the feel of metal can be calming, being more stable than other material. If you need a band that you know is safe for you to use, then stainless steel is the ticket. This adjustable mesh-style band is super comfortable and looks great too.$14 at AmazonTotally metalV-MORO 22mm Stainless Steel StrapThis strap from V-MORO is made of heavy-duty stainless steel, and it can go on in an instant with the built-in clasp. It's available in black or silv...
States target Google Chrome's 'Privacy Sandbox' with amended lawsuit
The multi-state lawsuit led by Texas was announced in December.What you need to knowA multi-state lawsuit against Google's advertising tech has been amended to aim at Chrome's privacy sandbox.Five more attorneys general have joined the lawsuit, taking the total to fifteen.The lawsuit accuses Google of trying to force advertisers to shift to its platform with the changes to ad tracking in Chrome.In December last year, Texas attorney general Ken Paxton announced a multi-state lawsuit against Google for engaging in anti-competitive practices. The lawsuit has now been amended to target Google's proposed changes to ad tracking in Chrome, which is not just one of the best Android browsers, but also the most popular desktop browser by market share. It alleges that Google's 'privacy sandbox' is "in essence, to wall off the entire portion of the internet that consumers access through Chrome browser."Responding to the new allegations, a Google representative told The Verge: At...
The PS5 is better and more powerful than the PS4 Pro
RevolutionaryPS5$500 at AmazonProsUltra-fast SSD10.28 TFLOPS GPUPSVR compatibleDigital Edition availableDualSense controllerQuieter fanConsLarge and heavyExpensiveSony's PS5 has one of the fastest SSDs on the market, making for unprecedented gameplay experiences and near-instant loading. Combined with a powerful GPU, the DualSense controller, a futuristic look, and a catalogue of upcoming exclusives, the PS5 is an absolutely fantastic console.Old technologyPS4 Pro$400 at AmazonProsCheaper than PS5 (in theory)SmallerConsWeaker than PS5DualShock controllerSlow HDDFans can sound like a jet engineThe PS4 Pro is nothing to sneeze at, even if it's much weaker than the PS5. It still packs a 4.2 TFLOPS GPU and plays some of the best exclusive games in the business. It's not easy to find in stock and refurbished units are often overpriced though, so unless you see an excellent deal, you should skip this older system.The PS5 is le...
Google's Live Caption is now rolling out to Chrome on desktop
The feature made its debut as a Pixel 4-exclusive in 2019.Update, March 17 (10:55 am ET): Live Caption is now rolling out to Chrome users.What you need to knowGoogle's Live Caption feature can now be activated in Chrome on Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS platforms.It is listed as an experimental feature currently, so there are a few bugs. The feature is likely to be officially released for everyone sometime later this year.Google has been working on bringing Live Captions to other platforms for almost a year now. While the feature hasn't been officially released for Chrome yet, Google has quietly added Live Caption as a hidden feature for the Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS versions of Chrome (via ChromeStory). Once you enable Live Caption on your device, you will be able to toggle it on or off from the media controls menu on the toolbar.To activate Live Caption in Chrome, paste chrome://flags/#enable-accessibility-live-caption into the search bar and search for Live Captio...
Motorola's DeX alternative is 'Ready For' primetime thanks to Android 11
You can now connect your Edge+ to an external display to enjoy a complete desktop computing experience.What you need to knowMotorola has started rolling out the Android 11 update for its flagship Edge+.The Android 11 update brings Motorola's Ready For experience to Verizon's Edge+. Ready For lets users turn their Edge+ into a PC, similar to Samsung DeX.Motorola has finally started rolling out the Android 11 update for its flagship Edge+. Along with all the usual Android 11 goodies such as one-time permissions and chat bubbles, the update also brings Motorola's "Ready For" feature and the March 2021 security patch to the Verizon Edge+.Ready For works similarly to Samsung DeX, allowing you to transform your Motorola Edge+ into a desktop PC. Unlike Samsung's best Android phones, however, you won't be able to enjoy a desktop experience wirelessly.To get started with Ready For, you'll have to connect your Edge+ to a monitor or TV using a USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to HDMI cab...
Samsung's Galaxy A52, A72 and A52 5G debut with 90Hz and 120Hz displays
The Galaxy A52 5G is the star of the show.What you need to knowSamsung announced the Galaxy A52 and A72 at its Galaxy Awesome Unpacked event.Both devices sport similar designs, bigger batteries, and 90Hz refresh rates.The Galaxy A52 5G boasts a 120Hz display, the first in an A-series smartphone.Samsung's A-series is the company's most popular lineup, so it's no surprise that the company is dedicating an entire launch event to the arrival of its latest devices. Today at Galaxy Awesome Unpacked, Samsung took the wraps off its latest A-series smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy A52 and A72, which manage to bring incredible value to the mid-range market with impressive flagship-level features.The Galaxy A52 and A72 appear nearly identical, except for the latter device's slightly larger size. On the front, they both look a lot like their predecessors, like the Samsung Galaxy A71, but the rear resembles a more toned-down version of the Samsung Galaxy S21. At the same time, both p...
Use your Android phone's cameras to measure heart and respiratory rates
Let's face it — not everyone wants or needs to own one of the best fitness trackers or best Android smartwatches. But just because you may not want to strap on a wearable, that doesn't mean you aren't concerned about tracking your health. Thankfully, Google has added some useful measurement tools into its Fit app that help you do just that by using your Android phone's cameras. We'll show you how easy it is to measure your heart rate and respiratory rate from the Google Fit app on your Android phone.How to measure your heart rate with the Google Pixel's camerasOpen the Google Fit app on your Android phone.If this is your first time measuring your heart rate, tap on Get started under the Check your heart rate section.Read through the informational screens, and tap Next for each.Decide if you want to grant Google Fit access to your phone's camera While using the app or Only this time.Place your fingertip on the rear camera.Tap Start measurement.Keep your hand still whi...
Don't let your Telegram contacts know when you're online
The Telegram messaging app has a ton of great features and customizations, allowing you to connect with friends, family, and contacts. However, sometimes you may not want them to know if, or when, you're online. We'll show you how to turn off Telegram's Last Seen Online timestamp so that you can have a bit of your privacy and anonymity back from your friends and family.How to turn off Telegram's Last Seen Online timestampOpen the Telegram app.Tap on the menu icon (three lines) in the top left corner of your phone's screen.Tap on Settings.Tap on Privacy and Security.Tap on Last Seen & Online.Tap on Nobody.Tap the checkmark in the top right corner to confirm the change.Tap OK on the pop-up window that says only approximate times will be shown.Note that there isn't an all-or-nothing binary situation here. While it's true that you can choose for the app's default behavior to not show your last seen online timestamp for most of your contacts on Telegram. However, ...
OPPO F19 Pro+ 5G goes on sale in India, takes the fight to Xiaomi’s Mi 10i
The F19 Pro+ 5G is OPPO's answer to the Xiaomi Mi 10i and OnePlus Nord.What you need to knowOPPO's latest F series phones are now on sale in India.The F19 Pro and F19 Pro+ 5G feature quad rear cameras and FHD+ AMOLED screens. OPPO F19 Pro+ 5G is the company's most affordable 5G phone yet, priced at ₹25,990 ($360).OPPO introduced the latest additions to its F series lineup of mid-range Android phones in India last week. The new F19 Pro and F19 Pro+ 5G phones are now available to purchase in the country from Amazon, Flipkart, as well as leading offline retail stores. The F19 Pro+ 5G aims to take on the best Android phones from Xiaomi, Samsung, and OnePlus in the mid-range segment in India.OPPO's F19 Pro and F19 Pro+ 5G share the same design and are virtually identical in most other areas too. Both phones sport a 6.43-inch FHD+ AMOLED panel with FHD+ resolution, featuring a hole-punch cutout for the 16MP selfie camera.In the camera department, the F19 series phones come ...
Protect the planet with these sustainable and repairable phones
Our planet is a beautiful thing, but we only have one to go around. As such, making smart choices about how we live our lives and the products we buy is key to ensuring it sticks around for generations to come. Some smartphones are created to be more sustainable and repairable than others — and if those are important factors to you when buying a new phone, the Teracube 2e is the one to buy. There are also a few other options worth talking about when it comes to the best modular phone, which we'll dive into in this article.Best Overall Sustainable and Repairable Phone: Teracube 2eAs you'll learn reading through this article, finding sustainable phones that are available in the U.S. can be quite tricky. Thankfully, we have the Teracube 2e. Initially part of an Indiegogo campaign and now being sold as a fully-funded product, the Teracube 2e is designed to be "the world's most reliable smartphone."The big draw to the Teracube 2e is its warranty. You get an industry-leading four...
How has your experience with Android Auto been?
Chatting with the AC forums.Like Apple's CarPlay, Android Auto is intended to be a supplement to, or replacement for, your car manufacturer's in-dash infotainment system. It is meant to provide a distraction-free, or at least less distracting, portal for you to access the apps and services that you might need or want while driving, such as music, navigation, news, weather, and calendar apps. Recognizing that not everyone has Android Auto built-in to their vehicles, Google even makes an app for Android Auto that lets you use your phone as the interface for the system.Unfortunately, things don't always go to plan, and issues and bugs have cropped up for many. I, for one, continue to have issues with my music app of choice (Amazon Music) on Android Auto (and CarPlay, for what that's worth), and while perusing the AC forums, I saw that other people had had their own issues with Android Auto. TheAngryToaster 02-04-2021 10:16 PM ...
Review: The Fitbit Ace 3 is a great fitness tracker for your little one!
A simple way to keep track of kids' activity and sleep.Activity trackers are primarily viewed as devices for adults, but there's value in considering one for kids. They are a great indicator of how much activity kids are getting, present fun motivations to encourage a healthy level of physical activity, and have useful features like sleep tracking so you can ensure that your child is not only getting enough ZZZs, but that they are getting quality sleep every night.Some parents are iffy about whether activity trackers make sense for their kids, believing that they can promote a negative self-image or make kids feel bad if they don't reach their goals. But it's all in the parental approach and the mindset of the child. When viewed as a fun and positive motivator for staying healthy versus a device designed to push kids to do more, they can be truly great. My 9-year-old has been wearing the Fitbit Ace 2 for over two years now, so we were excited for this next-generation Fitbit Ace 3...
How to send emoji, stickers, and GIFs in WhatsApp for Android
The easiest way to liven up a conversation in WhatsApp is by using emoji and GIFs. WhatsApp has partnered with GIPHY to integrate GIFs easily into the platform. You also get all the emoji available on Android and dozens of fun sticker packs — including a few animated options. Here's how you can easily send emoji, stickers, and GIFs in WhatsApp.How to send emoji, stickers, and GIFs in WhatsApp for AndroidIn the message window, hit the emoji button. You'll now see a menu with three tabs at the bottom: the first is for emoji, the second is GIFs, and the third is stickers. In the emoji tab, select an emoji and hit the Send button to send it to your contact.The GIF tab shows popular GIFs. You can search for a particular GIF using the search button on the left. Select the GIF you want to send. You can then add a caption to the GIF. Hit the Send button to send the GIF.The Stickers tab lets you send fun stickers within chats. Tap the Plus icon at the far right to add a new s...
Samsung says it may not launch a new Galaxy Note this year
The company now plans to launch a successor to the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra sometime next year.What you need to knowSamsung has warned that it may not be able to introduce a new Galaxy Note this year.The tech giant says it could be a burden to launch two flagship models in 2021 due to the ongoing global semiconductor shortage.Samsung fans may have to wait until 2022 for a true successor to the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra.At its annual shareholders meeting today, Samsung warned that it may not be able to launch a new Galaxy Note phone in 2021. As reported by Bloomberg, Samsung expects the ongoing global semiconductor shortage to have a serious impact on its business in the next quarter.Samsung's mobile chief Koh Dong-jin told reporters: Note series is positioned as a high-end model in our business portfolio. It could be a burden to unveil two flagship models in a year so it might be difficult to release Note model in 2H. The timing of Note model launch can be changed but we seek ...
These refurb Philips Hue deals are available for one day only
Whether you're already all-in on smart home tech or just getting started, you've probably come across Philips Hue products on your shopping trips. The company offers some of the most well-regarded smart lighting devices on the market, though they often come at a significant cost.That's exactly why you need to jump on rare deals on refurbished products when they come around such as this one-day sale on factory reconditioned Philips Hue gear at Woot. You can smarten up additional areas of your home without breaking the bank and rest easy knowing you've got a 90-day warranty in the unlikely event anything goes awry.The sale features a wide variety of options so it's great for new Hue users or those looking to smarten up yet more rooms. If you're just getting started, you're going to want to pick up some smart bulbs like the A19 White Ambiance 2-pack from $20 as well as the Philips Hue Hub down to $35 to get everything up and running. That hub can support a bunch of lights, so you ca...
Garmin's product lineup might be confusing at first, but take a closer look
Whether you're a beginner or an expert when it comes to finding the best fitness trackers and smartwatches, we all have our favorite brands that we stick with. Garmin stands out for many reasons, namely because the company offers such a robust product lineup. For some, this can be both overwhelming and confusing.With so many options to pick from, how can you know which model is best for your needs? The good news is that Garmin offers some of the best Android smartwatches on the market, so chances are you'll be able to find one that caters to your interests. First, you need to get a better understanding of your options so that you can choose accordingly.Understanding your optionsIf you know a thing or two about Garmin's product lineup, you know it covers more than smartwatches for individual use. The company is known for offering a variety of GPS navigation and wearable technology devices for the marine, automotive, aviation, and outdoor markets. No matter your passion, it's lik...
Best Secure VPN 2021
When looking for the best secure VPN, you want to find a service that can hide your location, protect your sensitive data, and overall help you stay more anonymous online.The whole idea of a VPN, as you may already know, is to increase your anonymity by sending your signal via a go-between server. The result is that you have a buffer layer between your device and where you're connecting to. As a result, it's extremely difficult, if not impossible, to find you based on where you've been online.Best Secure VPNs 20211. ExpressVPN (From $6.67/mo)2. NordVPN (From $3.71/mo)3. CyberGhost VPN (From $2.25/mo)4. VyprVPN (From $1.66/mo)5. IPVanish (From $3.75/mo)On top of that, the best VPNs will also encrypt any data flowing through its servers making information within unintelligible even if someone unauthorized were to get ahold of it.What does that mean for security? You won't have to worry about anyone finding your location, nor any of your sensitive details, especially w...
Chelsea vs Atlético Madrid live stream: How to watch UEFA Champions League
With a 1-0 win in the away leg, Chelsea of the Premier League now host current La Liga frontrunners Atlético Madrid. Can Atleti turn things around in London? Don't miss a moment with our Chelsea vs Atlético Madrid live stream guide.In their last meeting, Chelsea secured a narrow 1-0 win which gives them not only an aggregate lead but an away goal advantage as they try to book their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals.It was a tight game last time out with relatively few chances for either side. Ultimately, a superb Olivier Giroud overhead kick was the difference-maker in Bucharest for the last leg.Today's hosts Chelsea are still unbeaten under new manager Thomas Tuchel and have notched two further victories and two draws since their last Champions League outing, leaving them in fourth place in the Premier League as things stand.Despite suffering defeat in the neutral Arena Naţională venue for the first leg, Atlético Madrid have held their place at the top of the ...
Every game with touch controls on Xbox Game Pass (xCloud) for Android
A growing list that's starting small at launch with only a few titles.Xbox Game Pass for Android is here, and though the service supports over 150 games, only a handful of those support touch controls. The preferred method for playing these games may be to grab one of the best game controllers for Android, but you have the choice to go the old school mobile gaming route and just use the screen of your phone or tablet if you want to.Every game with touch controls on Xbox Game Pass (xCloud) for AndroidBloodstained: Ritual of the NightCelesteDead CellsGolf With Your FriendsDRAGON QUEST XI S: Echos of an Elusive Age - Definitive EditionGears 5 (in testing)Guacamelee! 2Hellblade: Senua's SacrificeHotshot RacingHyperDotIkenfellIndivisibleKiller Instinct: Definitive EditionMinecraft DungeonsNew Super Lucky's TaleScourgeBringerSlay The SpireStreets of Rage 4Tell Me Why (Chapters 1-3)The TourystUnderMineVambrace: Cold SoulThat's it, unfortunately. Microsoft is w...
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