Latest from Android Central

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 ...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

The Chinese government hasn't officially confirmed the move yet.What you need to knowEncrypted messaging app Signal appears to have been blocked in mainland China.The app is no longer working in the country without a VPN.It is unclear if the ban on Signal will be reversed in the future. Signal, which is one of the best Android messaging apps, appears to have been banned in China. As reported by TechCrunch, the app is no longer working in the country without a VPN. According to censorship-tracking website Greatfire.org, the official website of the app has also been banned in mainland China.When asked if the app was banned in the country, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "China's internet is open, and the Chinese government manages internet-related affairs in accordance with the law."The ban doesn't come as a surprise, however, since Signal was one of the last few apps in China to offer encrypted messaging. It also comes just a month after Chin...

Great family valueMetro by T-MobileFrom $30/mo. at Metro by T-MobileProsGreat family savingsNo overage chargeUnlimited talk and text5G included for freeAmazon Prime included with UnlimitedConsMore expensiveMetro by T-Mobile is a great option for someone that needs a lot of data. Even Metro's largest unlimited plans can be a great value for the entire family thanks to the fourth line being essentially free. With 15GB of hotspot data on top and Amazon Prime thrown in, Metro is a great family value.Bulk savingsMint MobileFrom $15/mo. at Mint MobileProsFree calls to Mexico and CanadaNo overage chargeUnlimited talk and text5G included for freeinternational roaming optionsConsNo multi-line discountsNo stores for supportMint Mobile manages to keep prices lower by selling service in chunks of three, six, or 12 months. With an array of plans that have plenty of data for most people, Mint Mobile is a great choice for someone that only ne...

The Galaxy A71 offers everything you're looking for in a mid-range phone.Update, March 2021: Samsung Galaxy A71 review, one year laterFrom the very beginning, the Galaxy A series was meant to target the mid-range segment. But in 2019, Samsung diversified the series to include the budget segment as well, leading to devices like the Galaxy A10 and A20. Samsung streamlined its strategy, and the Galaxy A series now caters to both the budget and mid-range categories.One of the best cheap Android phones to come out of the Galaxy A lineup was the Galaxy A70. It was the first Samsung phone to offer 25W wired charging and offered decent specs in the form of a Snapdragon 675. The Galaxy A71 builds on that formula with updates to the camera and chipset, and it also sports an exciting new design with a smaller cutout.Samsung hasn't changed too much here from last year, but the updates make the Galaxy A71 an enticing option in the mid-range category. I'm reviewing the 4G version of the ph...

Twitter has expressed free speech concerns over the demands.What you need to knowTwitter faces a ban in Russia over its refusal to take down illegal material.The contentious content includes illegal drugs and sexual imagery.The Russian government says Twitter will be blocked in a month if nothing changes.Twitter and other social media companies are prone to threats of takedowns from countries where there is a clash of values between the companies and the government. This time, it's Russia. The social media platform has been urged to take down a raft of illegal content on its platform which included "child pornography and material on illegal drugs and child suicide." A slowdown was initiated on the platform last week ahead of this statement.Reuters reported: In a move that escalates the growing stand-off, Vadim Subbotin, the deputy head of Roskomnadzor, the communications watchdog, was cited as saying on Tuesday that Twitter had not addressed Russian concerns yet and w...

Shifting away from live events to follow a new strategy.What you need to knowBlizzard Entertainment is reportedly laying off over 50 staff.Some of those affected include live events team members and developers working at King.Activision's prior financial results for the last quarter saw over $2.4 billion in revenue.According to a report from Bloomberg, Activision-Blizzard is laying off over 50 staff. This includes some who worked on the live events team, which is no longer a priority for Blizzard Entertainment following a change in strategy. Other staff affected include some working at King, a publisher known for games like Candy Crush. The total number of affected employees is not known but is stated to be under 2% of the total workforce."Players are increasingly choosing to connect with our games digitally and the e-sports team, much like traditional sports, entertainment, and broadcasting industries, has had to adapt its business due to the impact the pandemic has had ...

Instagram is rolling out a raft of child safety features this month.What you need to knowInstagram is rolling out new tools aimed at protecting minors.One tool would prevent adults from messaging under-18s who they don't follow.Another tool would alert under-18s of suspicious behavior by adult followers.Instagram today is rolling out new tools to protect minors from unwanted contact on social media by adults. One such move would prevent minors from being messaged by adults they don't follow. Another would alert them of additional options if an adult they do follow has engaged in suspicious behavior, for example, sending out a raft of following requests to under-18s.The Instagram team wrote: To protect teens from unwanted contact from adults, we're introducing a new feature that prevents adults from sending messages to people under 18 who don't follow them. For example, when an adult tries to message a teen who doesn't follow them, they receive a notification that DM'i...

We're nearing Shorts season.What you need to knowYouTube Shorts is rolling out in its early stages to the U.S. beginning today, and expanding to more users in the coming weeks.YouTube Shorts originally launched in beta in India, where TikTok is banned, back in September 2020.Along with the U.S. expansion, YouTube Shorts is gaining new features for creators, including the ability to add time-based text and sample audio from other Shorts.Short-form videos are all the rage, it seems. Following an early preview in India over the last few months, YouTube is expanding its TikTok competitor, YouTube Shorts, in its beta state to the U.S. today, and adding a handful of new features to the platform.As is the case with TikTok and Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts as a platform is all about quick, shareable videos — up to 15 seconds in length, with the ability to add music, slow down or speed up footage, and string multiple clips into one export. The best part is that you don't need ...

Epic Games is not having it and thinks the Play Store announcement is simply a PR stunt.Update, Mar 16 (6:30 pm ET): Epic Games responds to Google's announcementWhat you need to knowGoogle is dropping its cut of Play Store commission on in-app purchases by 15%.The move follows Apple's example, dropping its own cut by 15% after a very public spat with Epic Games.The cut will apply to the first $1 million in revenue per year earned by developers.App development and upkeep can be expensive, whether through a small developer or a larger one. It's also expensive to maintain the platforms that distribute these apps, such as Android's Google Play Store, which is why they normally take a percentage of purchases made from these apps. This was the subject of a very public clash last year between a well-known game developer and two mobile platform giants. Still, the latest move by Google sees the company attempting to improve relations with app developers by cutting its own commissi...

Haven't been able to secure a PS5 yet? You can try your luck at Amazon this week.What you need to knowAmazon should be restocking the PS5 this week with tens of thousands of consoles.We don't have an exact date or time for when this restock is set to take place, but it shouldn't be Monday, March 15.We'll keep you updated so that you can hopefully buy a PS5 as soon as it drops on Amazon.Update, March 16 (5:40 pm ET): TechRadar reports that Amazon should have the PS5 in-stock on Thursday, Match 18. They did not reveal an exact time as to deter scalpers and bots.You'll have plenty of chances to buy a PS5 this week from Amazon. TechRadar's Matt Swider, who's been diligently tracking PS5 stock and helped thousands get a hold of the elusive console, says that Amazon should be dropping nearly 50,000 PS5 units. Swider's teamed up with YouTuber Jake Randall to track the stock, which he says should hit the retailer sometime this week.Sony's bestPlayStation 5$500 at Amazon...

The gear you buy in Fortnite is all a matter of status.Ever since its release, Fortnite has quickly become one of the biggest video games on the planet thanks to its addicting gameplay, endless collaborations with other forms of media, and constant updates that keep the game fresh. You can play the game on pretty much any platform (except iOS), from the latest consoles and PC to even some of the best phones on the market.With the game being as popular as it is, it's not too shocking to see that it continually makes a ton of money off of in-game microtransactions. However, those new to the game may be wondering what's the smartest way to spend money in Fortnite, and whether or not you should buy V-Bucks at all. Thankfully, we've got you covered.How much is a V-Buck?Before we talk about getting the best value out of your V-Buck, we should first break down the value attached to the currency itself. The smallest amount you can buy is 1,000 V-Bucks for $10, so that sets the base...

Jade Raymond and PlayStation is a match made in Haven heaven.In a not-so-surprising move, Jade Raymond announced earlier that she had opened up a new independent studio in Montreal called Haven. It's set to be a place where game developers she's worked with can refocus on making the games they love "without any barriers or impediments." What's even more interesting about this announcement is that Raymond revealed she has partnered with PlayStation to release a new IP on PS5. If you're familiar with her past work, you'll see this as a perfect fit.Before Google shut down its internal game development studio for Stadia and let go of Raymond, who was heading the initiative, she had previously worked at Ubisoft for several years on the Assassin's Creed series, helping catapult the burgeoning franchise to become one of the most successful in video game history. It's this expertise that makes me excited to see what she and PlayStation will cook up together.After her time at Ubisoft,...

Xiaomi, like many Chinese companies, has teetered on a razor's edge in the U.S. market. Tensions between the U.S. and China have led to a situation where no matter how good many of Xiaomi's products are, it seems like it's never going to be welcomed into the country.In January, former U.S. President Donald Trump placed new restrictions on Xiaomi as part of a package of measures targeting Chinese firms. The company fought these measures in court and has since obtained an order halting enforcement of the restrictions.Hang on a moment — why did Xiaomi get banned?Specifically? Xiaomi didn't get banned or barred from the market in the way that Huawei did. Instead, the company was placed on a blacklist, preventing U.S-based businesses from investing in it. This was more of an attack aimed at the company's wallet than it was at stopping Xiaomi from doing business entirely. The reasoning given was that Xiaomi was an arm of the "Communist Chinese Military" and therefore could not be...

Samsung's Galaxy Note series is well known for churning out big phones with big screens, and the Galaxy Note 20 is no exception. Touting a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with slim bezels all around, the Note 20 has a great canvas for watching movies, playing games, taking notes, or whatever else you want to do. To be sure your phone stays in tip-top shape for years to come, pick up one of these Galaxy Note 20 screen protectors.It's all hereLK Film Screen Protector (2-Pack)Staff PickKicking off our list, we have some film screen protectors from LK — one of the most trusted brands in the screen protector world. These protectors are fully compatible with the Note 20's in-screen fingerprint sensor, are easy to install, have self-healing tech for light scratches, and you get two at a great price. Not to mention, LK even includes two protectors for the rear camera bump!$12 at AmazonAwesome valueHATOSHI Film Screen Protector (3-Pack)If you're looking for something a bit...

With Microsoft's acquisition of ZeniMax complete, many current Bethesda titles are now available via Xbox Game Pass. The company is also promising many exclusive titles in the future as well.The Jiggle Physics team cover this along with Loop Hero, the overabundance of ports on Nintendo Switch, and a ton more.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Microsoft officially welcomes Bethesda to the Xbox family, some new titles to be Xbox exclusive | Windows CentralPhil Spencer: Bethesda being part of Xbox is about delivering exclusive games 'where Game Pass exists' | Windows CentralMicrosoft's big ZeniMax deal makes Xbox a game franchise powerhouse | Windows CentralMicrosoft's ZeniMax acquisition shook the games industry, now Sony should do the same | Android CentralSony shouldn't respond to Microsoft buying ZeniMax Media by buying a publisher | Android CentralSquar...

You don't need to spend a lot of money to get a great Bluetooth speaker, so we've rounded up what we believe are some of the best Bluetooth speakers under $100 to help save you money. Whether you're looking to pick up a speaker to listen to music or play your favorite podcasts at the pool, or need one for streaming music from your phone, there are plenty of great affordable options available. Our pick would be the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 for its versatility and excellent sound quality.Best Overall Bluetooth Speaker Under $100: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2The Wonderboom 2 delivers everything you're looking for in an affordable Bluetooth speaker. It has IP67 water resistance, astonishingly great sound quality, and 13-hour battery life. The speaker also has multi-directional sound, and you can even pair two speakers together to create a stereo effect (although you can only pair it with other Wonderboom speakers).The versatility on offer here makes the Wonderboom 2 stand out fro...

120Hz is better than 120Hz when it's on the OnePlus 9.What you need to knowNew information has emerged about the display on the OnePlus 9 Pro.The LTPO OLED display is reportedly the first in the industry to have an adaptive refresh rate as low as 1Hz.OnePlus claims to have a more responsive panel than the Galaxy S21 Ultra.OnePlus continues teasing its upcoming smartphones, posting full images, announcing details about the cameras, and now boasting display capabilities. As the creme-of-the-crop, the OnePlus 9 Pro has been the focus of much of the marketing hype, and the latest is no exception. OnePlus has taken to its community forum to detail the display on the 9 Pro, touting some impressive hardware.The post details the switch to an LTPO display, a technology that has slowly cropped up in some of the best Samsung phones, allowing displays to dynamically adjust the refresh rate depending on content. Phones like the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra can achieve a refresh rate as ...

With the OnePlus 8 Pro, OnePlus set out to create its first proper flagship — a phone that doesn't hold back in any regard. The result is mighty impressive, with the 8 Pro being one of the very best Android phones you can buy in 2021. The 120Hz AMOLED display is one of its greatest strengths, and thankfully, you get a pre-installed screen protector to keep it looking great. What happens when that one starts to wear down, and you need a backup? Here are the best OnePlus 8 Pro screen protectors that we recommend picking up.Great valueWRJ HD Tempered Glass Screen ProtectorStaff PickAre you trying to spend as little as possible? This screen protector from WRJ is an excellent deal. It's a tempered glass protector that is easy to install and won't shatter should you drop your phone thanks to the 9H hardness and bursting resistance.$5 at AmazonPlenty to go aroundOMOTON TPU Film Screen Protector (4-Pack)Three-packs of screen protectors are great, but what if you n...

One of the biggest and best traditional JRPGs of recent memory just dropped on Stadia out of nowhere.What you need to knowDragon Quest XI S: Echoes of Elusive Age - Definitive Edition is out now on Stadia.For a limited time it's only $32.FIFA 21 and Terraria also launching this week.NBA 2K21 is free for Stadia Pro subscribers from today until March 23.Surprise! Google revealed today out of nowhere that the excellent JRPG from Square Enix, Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition, is now available on Stadia. Dragon Quest (originally known as Dragon Warrior in the West) is the series that originated the entire JRPG genre and is still going strong to this day. The latest entry is a sweeping 100+ hour long epic with traditional style turn-based combat and gorgeous visuals. You can grab it for a limited time for just $32 from Stadia—typically it'll cost $40 after March 30. This should immediately become one of the best Stadia games if the port is solid...

Best answer: Most phones with 5G can be brought over to another carrier, however access to the full network, or even 5G, depends on whether the phone supports the right frequency bands. If you want to switch, consider buying an unlocked phone that works with all carriers.Check your bands and IMEI5G coverage is growing fast and it's likely not slowing down with carriers investing billions in future capacity. If you're looking at buying a new phone right now, you've likely noticed that most of them, at least most of the best Android phones, come with 5G.If you've been thinking about switching carriers and wondered, "Will my 5G phone work on another carrier?" You'll be happy to hear that most unlocked 5G phones can be used with another carrier — but there's a chance it will be limited to LTE.While most phones support all the necessary 5G bands to get covered by just about any carrier, it's a bit more complicated when it comes to getting activated. First thing's first, make sur...

The ever-rising popularity of streaming comes with a lot of competition. You'll need a great personality to set yourself apart, but you'll also need some reliable equipment. Mediocre microphones are a surefire way to lose viewers quickly. To up your game, try some of the best PS4 USB microphones that offer quality sound without breaking the bank. Our top choice goes to Blue Yeti's USB microphone for its high-quality audio and varying recording patterns. Still, there are several trustworthy choices on this list for any budget that will also give you crystal clear audio when streaming from your PS4 or PS5.MultipurposeBlue Yeti USB MicrophoneStaff PickIt doesn't get much better for streamers than the Blue Yeti. It's affordable, it picks up high-quality audio from four different recording patterns, and it features zero-latency headphone output through a 3.5mm jack so that you can listen to exactly what you're recording. Getting the perfect sounding audio with impeccable control...

PS4 users should disband their groups before April arrives.What you need to knowPlayStation Communities is a PlayStation 4 feature that allowed users to make groups based on shared interests.Sony revealed in an email to PS4 users that Communities is officially shutting down in April.The company is investing more resources into the PlayStation 5, which doesn't support Communities.Sony today confirmed that it's officially discontinuing the PlayStation Communities feature. The feature, which allowed users to make groups together, will shut down in April. It encourages users to continue to stay in touch with the PS Messages feature.The news was first announced in an email to PlayStation 4 users, and was confirmed in an official notice on the PlayStation site: "Thank you for using the PS Communities feature on your PS4 console. Beginning in April 2021, this feature will no longer be supported or available on your PS4 console."Communities was a PS4 feature that allowed users ...

We've rounded up the best Samsung Galaxy S21+ cases that we could find because we know how important it is to keep your prized and expensive new smartphone safe and protected for its entire lifetime. Some of these cases offer maximum protection, while others showcase that incredible Samsung style. When looking for a case from this list, consider the form factor, color, and thickness that works best for you.Exclusive to the PlusSamsung Kvadrat CoverStaff PickSamsung has been on a sustainability kick in 2021, and this lovely textured case is part of that initiative. Made entirely out of recycled PET bottles, the case not only keeps new materials out of the product stream, but it can be composted as well! The texture makes it easy and comfortable to hold while still providing protection. You can pick one up in violet or a stunning silvery gray.$35 at Samsung$35 at AmazonA pleasure to holdCaseology Parallax CaseIt's not often that you find one of the best-looki...

The Galaxy S21 Ultra is one of the biggest and most powerful Galaxys ever, as well as being the first to work with the S Pen, traditionally reserved for the Note line. Given its size and heft, you need to protect your investment with a secure case that adds grip and style. The best cases for the Galaxy S21 Ultra are right here, whether you're after a clear case to show off the Ultra's design or a durable tank to keep it safe and secure.Colorful and durableCaseology Nano PopStaff pickAfter two years of the Nano Pop being exclusive to iPhones, it's finally coming to Samsung phones with the S21 series. The Blueberry Navy with its yellow accents is striking and classic, and the impact-absorbing pattern embedded in the back gives you slim protection. I wish the Ultra has gotten the Violet the smaller S21s have, but the colors here are still fun.From $15 at Amazon$20 at WalmartReady to work hardArmadilloTek Vanguard Series for S21 UltraThe S21 Ultra is made for product...

Starting fresh with an independent team but a big partner.What you need to knowJade Raymond is a developer who has worked in leadership across the gaming industry at Ubisoft, Electronic Arts and Stadia.When Stadia Games and Entertainment closed, Raymond departed Google.Raymond is now heading up an independent studio called Haven Entertainment Studios. Haven Entertainment is working with PlayStation on an unannounced new IP.Today, Sony announced that Jade Raymond is heading up a new studio independent studio called Haven Studios. Raymond has previously worked across the video game industry at Electronic Arts, Ubisoft and most recently, Stadia Games and Entertainment, Google's now-defunct first-party development studios."As I took stock of my career over the last few years and started to think about what to do next, I came to a very simple conclusion: I need to get back to what I love doing most, and do so in a way that gives our team the freedom to explore, inspire, and c...

Elite running watchGarmin Forerunner 945$535 at AmazonProsGPS, HRM, NFCFull-color mapsMultiple sport modesAdvanced performance metricsMusic storage and Wi-FiConsShorter battery lifeNo solar chargingThe Garmin Forerunner 945 is a well-rounded wearable that will meet the needs of most athletes. You'll have access to full-color mapping, in-depth fitness tracking, music storage, and more. It's also much more affordable than the Enduro.Solar battery champGarmin Enduro$800 at B&HProsGPS, HRM, NFCSolar chargingMultiple sport modesAdvanced performance metricsBattery saving modesConsRidiculously expensiveNo maps or music storageIf you've been searching for a smartwatch with solar charging, you may have met your match with the Garmin Enduro. While it offers some other helpful features, it's not a huge upgrade from the Forerunner 945. Not to mention it's unreasonably expensive.Garmin Enduro vs. Garmin Forerunner 945: Pick your ...

The long-awaited return to Oddworld is here. Abe's story continues.Abe led us through some crunchy, zappy, and very explodey situations in Oddworld: Abe's Odyssey and Abe's Exodus back in the days of the original PlayStation. Since the original release, Oddworld Inhabitants, the developers of Oddworld games, have taken us on a journey with Munch and Stranger and gave us a beautiful remake for the beginning of Abe's story in New'n'Tasty.Six years after the remake, we are ready to see more of Abe's story.Jump to:What is Oddworld: Soulstorm?When will Oddworld: Soulstorm be released?What happened in Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty?What is Oddworld: Soulstorm's gameplay like?Lead an uprisingOddworld: Soulstorm$50 at Epic Games StoreEmbrace your destinyTake on the role of Abe, a reluctant hero who must lead his people to freedom or see them eradicated. The action-adventure game features a mix of crafting, scavenging, platforming, and stealth.What is Oddworld: Sou...

iOS users may finally be able to install important security patches without having to upgrade to a newer version of the operating system first.What you need to knowApple is reportedly working on rolling out standalone iOS security updates, similar to Android.The change will allow users to install critical security updates without having to install the entire iOS update.Apple currently bundles security patches with new iOS releases. Apple may soon begin rolling out standalone security updates to iPhones and iPads, similar to the way Google releases new Android security patches each month. The folks over at 9to5Mac have spotted a few changes hidden in the internal codes of the fourth iOS 14.5 beta, which seem to suggest the change could be introduced along with the next big iOS release later this year.Unlike Android, devices running on iOS must update to the latest version of the operating system to get the latest security fixes. However, a new section that has been added ...

You can charge your DualShock 4 controller by attaching it to a USB cable via your PS4. However, that only works for one controller at a time, which is inefficient if you like playing multiplayer games. Having a cable sticking out can also make your setup look cluttered, and your controller can disconnect if jostled. With a little extra investment, you can solve all your power needs and even add some additional functions with one of these controller charging docks. Please do note these won't work with the PS5 DualSense controller. With that in mind, here are the best PlayStation 4 controller charging docks.Best overallPowerA DualShock 4 Controller Charging StationStaff PickThe PowerA DualShock 4 Controller Charging Station is the only officially licensed charging dock for your PS4 controllers. It works off of AC adapters to make it easy to plug your controllers in and get a charge without any additional hassle. This dock fits easily onto an entertainment system and doesn't ...

The OnePlus Nord 2 is coming very soon, and it will have exciting hardware upgrades.The OnePlus Nord debuted to much fanfare last year, and it turned into a bestseller for the company. OnePlus is now working on a follow-up dubbed the OnePlus Nord 2 that will make its debut sometime later this year.Right now, the focus for OnePlus is the OnePlus 9 series, but once the flagships are unveiled, we should start hearing more details about other products in the portfolio, including the Nord series. There's already a lot to be excited about regarding the mid-range phone, so here's what you need to know about the OnePlus Nord 2.Jump to:Release datePrice and availabilityDesignSpecsSoftwareBudget warriorOnePlus Nord N10 5G$300 at AmazonYou don't have to pay more for 5GThe Nord N10 5G lets you make the switch to 5G on a budget. It has a Snapdragon 690 chipset with 5G connectivity, a large battery with 30W fast charging, 64MP camera at the back, and a 90Hz screen t...

Qualcomm says it will integrate NUVIA CPUs with Snapdragon to take computing performance to a new level.Update, March 16 (10:30 am ET): Qualcomm has completed its acquisition of NUVIA.What you need to knowQualcomm Technologies is acquiring chip startup NUVIA for $1.4 billion.The startup was founded by three of Apple's former top semiconductor executives.Qualcomm plans to integrate NUVIA CPUs across its portfolio of products. Qualcomm today announced that it has acquired chip startup NUVIA in a $1.4 billion cash deal. The chipmaker expects the NUVIA acquisition to help it cement its Snapdragon technology leadership and continue to deliver significant improvements in CPU performance and power efficiency for next-gen 5G computing.Cristiano Amon, President and CEO-Elect, Qualcomm, said in a statement: 5G, the convergence of computing and mobile architectures, and the expansion of mobile technologies into other industries are significant opportunities for Qualcomm. The N...

What is Ghostwire: Tokyo? This new IP shown at Bethesda's E3 2019 is still as mysterious as it is creepy, but that just has us more intrigued.At Bethesda's E3 2019 press conference, they showed off two entirely brand new IPs — one of them was called Ghostwire: Tokyo. Creative director Ikumi Nakamura took the stage with a level of confidence, enthusiasm, and sincerity that immediately charmed the audience and deeply contrasted with the level of creepiness and dark aesthetic beauty of the trailer she led into. Whatever Ghostwire: Tokyo is exactly, the concepts for it presented in a CGI video look incredible.Since then, more has been revealed, with some significant footage shown during Sony's June 2020 PS5 showcase, the Future of Gaming. Nakamura is no longer on the project, Mikami is now director, and this game is a timed console exclusive. Here's what we now know about what could end up as one of the best PS5 games available:Jump to:What is Ghostwire: Tokyo?What is the s...

TCL took the wraps off its first self-made and own-branded Android phones in the TCL 10 series last year, and the inexpensive devices are even more affordable at Amazon right now. These unlocked phones are available at record lows there with as much as $135 off, dropping these devices back down to their Black Friday prices. EachThe higher-end of the two on offer, the TCL 10 Pro, is on sale for just $314.99 unlocked. All you have to do to score the saving is clip the coupon on its product page for $135 off before you add it to your cart.The 10 Pro features a Snapdragon 675 octa-core processor and 6GB RAM. There's 128GB of internal storage with microSD card support. It sports a 6.47-inch FHD+ waterfall AMOLED display with an in-screen fingerprint processor and HDR 10 support. It's equipped with a quad-camera set-up, with a main 64MP shooter supplemented with a low-light video camera, a wide-angle lens, and a macro camera.The TCL 10L is the entry-level offering and usually goes ...

GoPro's new Quik app takes the work out of video editing.What you need to knowGoPro has launched a new version of Quik that combines its two previous apps.The new Quik arranges photos and videos into albums called Murals, which automatically generates a highlight video.Quik streamlines its editing tools to bring more versatility for both GoPro owners and smartphone users.Smartphones are becoming increasingly powerful content editing tools for both professionals and amateurs alike, with more apps aiming to take advantage of extremely capable chipsets like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888. GoPro is one company that benefits from apps that offer quick access to powerful video editing tools found on some of the best Android phones. Quik, the latest version of the GoPro app, aims to make the most of what smartphones can do while making it easy and effortless to edit videos on the go.Quik may sound familiar to some as one of the best video editors for Android, but this is actually a...

Best answer: Visible's $40 per month plan comes with free, unlimited mobile hotspot data. The two caveats are that data speeds are limited to 5Mbps, and you can only have one device tethered at a time.Free hotspot access: Visible ($40/mo. at Visible) Best overall Visible phone: Google Pixel 4a ($346 at Amazon)Visible doesn't make you pay extra for hotspot usageMobile hotspot use is an essential feature for any carrier these days, whether it be with one of the Big Three or a smaller MVNO. Just about every carrier offers mobile hotspot data in one form or another, but as you shop around you'll notice that a lot of companies will charge extra or try to limit the amount of mobile hotspot data you get.Thankfully, Visible doesn't do anything like this. Visible gives hotspot access to every single customer for free — and that's it. It's part of the reason why it's one of the best unlimited MVNO carriers you can join today. Once you sign up with Visible, receive your SIM card, a...

Huawei expects to rake in close to $1.3 billion in patent fees between 2019 and 2021.What you need to knowA new report from Bloomberg says Huawei will soon charging royalties from Apple and Samsung for its wireless 5G patents.Huawei is capping per-phone royalties at $2.5, which is well below competitors like Qualcomm.The company plans to use the patent fees to maintain its position in the global 5G networking market. Chinese smartphone and networking giant Huawei will soon begin charging a "reasonable fee" from rivals such as Apple and Samsung for using its wireless 5G patents, according to a new report from Bloomberg.Huawei's Chief Legal Officer Song Liuping told reporters that the company will "negotiate rates and potential cross-licensing with Apple and Samsung." It aims to use the patent fees to expand its presence in the global 5G networking market. As per Jason Ding, head of Huawei's intellectual property department, the company is capping per-phone royalties at $2....

Outriders is a drop-in, drop-out co-op shooter from the developers behind Bulletstorm.Developer People Can Fly worked on a few Gears of War titles alongside Epic Games before creating Bulletstorm, an FPS notably at the time for its vulgar humor. Fast forward several years, and the developer is now on the cusp of releasing Outriders, a sci-fi co-op shooter set on a faraway alien planet after Earth's collapse. Could it become one of the best games on PS5? We'll need to wait and find out. Until then, we've gathered everything you need to know about Outriders, including what its gameplay and story are like, what you can expect out of its demo, and more.Alien planetOutriders$60 at Amazon$60 at Best Buy$60 at WalmartFollow the signalEnoch is full of alien threats, but as an Outrider, you have supernatural powers at your disposal to help save the rest of humanity. Go it solo or team up with some friends to take on this adventure.What is Outriders?What's the gameplay li...

Google's 2nd-gen Nest Hub looks the same but has some new tricks.What you need to knowThe new 2nd-generation Nest Hub features new sleep tracking technology using Google's Soli radar tech.Google Nest Hub supports Motion Gestures and offers 50% more bass when listening to music.The new Nest Hub is available for preorder today for $99.Today Google announced the second generation of its popular Google Nest Hub smart display. As one of the best smart displays on the market, the first-generation Nest Hub had a lot going for it, but Google is introducing a few welcome changes for this new version, from better audio to better sleeping and new ways to navigate your display.Visually, the Nest Hub is more or less the same as the first version. The second-gen is more of a refresh than a complete overhaul, offered in four colors, including Chalk, Charcoal, Sand, and the new Mist. But while the outside remains largely unchanged, the inside includes several welcome upgrades, including ...

Distracted driving is completely unacceptable given how flagship phones like the Galaxy S20 are designed with so many hands-free features. All you need is a quality car mount and you can use Google Maps, make calls, or stream music while driving with your hands safely on the wheel and your eyes attentively on the road. These are the best Galaxy S20 car mounts you can buy right now.Good old reliableiOttie Easy One Touch 5 Dashboard MountStaff PickiOttie's Easy One Touch line has been the most popular car mount for almost a decade, and the One Touch 5 is more adaptable and can extend a further distance with its telescoping arm. There are also CD-slot and air vent-mounted models available, too.$25 at Amazon $25 at Best BuyFor landscape navigationHzrfun Dashboard Clip Car MountIf your dash traditionally doesn't do well with suction or adhesive mounts, this dashboard clip makes it easy to put your S20 front and center while you drive. This should fit all S20 mode...

With a 1-0 win in the away leg, La Liga titleholders Real Madrid have the edge going into this UEFA Champions League round of 16 second-leg tie against Atalanta. Can the Bergamo-based side turn things around? Don't miss a moment with our Real Madrid vs Atalanta live stream guide.In their last meeting, Real Madrid 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 Los Blancos missing a number of key players and only stealing the win in the 86th minute. Atalanta spent the majority of the game playing with ten men after Remo Freuler saw red in the 17th minute.Since their last Champions League game, Real are unbeaten in three games including a 1-1 draw in the Madrid derby at Atlético. Though Zinedine Zidane's have not been beaten in their last seven league outings, the Whites are still six points off the pace in this year's title...

Google tells you exactly what to expect when you open an incognito tab in Chrome, but that's just not enough.A federal judge has denied Alphabet's (Google's parent company) request to dismiss a class-action lawsuit over Google's Chrome incognito mode, citing that the company "did not notify users that Google engages in the alleged data collection while the user is in private browsing mode." Google products are secure, but that doesn't have anything to do with privacy.There are plenty of things that may come to mind when hearing this ruling. Google never claims that incognito is private and even warns you that your web activity is still visible to any website on the internet, including ones that use Google's advertising services. But what matters right now is the opinion of an appointed federal judge.Google, of course, disagrees and, in a written statement to Bloomberg says, "We strongly dispute these claims, and we will defend ourselves vigorously against them. Incognito m...

The new families.google website offers detailed guides on how you can manage the safety and digital wellbeing of your kids.What you need to knowGoogle has launched a new website that aims to serve as a one-stop technology resource for families.It is also rolling out a bunch of new updates to Family Link, including "always allowed" apps, parental controls on-device for Android, and an increased catalogue of teacher-approved apps for kids.The new features will be rolling out to users in the U.S. over the coming weeks. In September 2017, Google launched Family Link for Android devices, allowing parents to keep their children safe on the internet by managing apps, settings screen time limits, and more. Family Link is now getting a major upgrade to help parents focus more on how their kids use devices.You can now encourage your kids to spend more time with the best Android apps you approve of. When you designate an app as "always allowed," your children can keep using it even ...