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Updated 2025-09-11 20:32
Best cheap monthly VPN plan 2021
On your search for the best VPN service, you might have been confused by the different plans and offerings of each provider when trying to figure out the best value option.For the most part, going for a longer-term plan will save you more money (sometimes as much as 70% or more), though not everyone wants to commit for a year or longer. Fear not, though, as cheap monthly VPN plans do exist so you can get set up with a VPN without spending a ton of cash upfront.Best Cheap Monthly VPN PlansIPVanish: $3.49/1-monthPureVPN: $0.99/7-day trialProtonVPN: $5/1-monthWindscribe: $9/1-monthExpressVPN: $12.95/1-month You don't have to go broke each month or pay a huge upfront cost to get a great VPN. These cheap monthly VPN plans make it affordable to try out a VPN for yourself before committing for a longer period of time or just pay for VPN service as and when you need it without a commitment.IPVanish VPN: 65% off one-month plan$3.49 at IPVanishWith its current deal,...
Horizon Zero Dawn is now free on PS4 & PS5
No PlayStation Plus subscription required.What you need to knowHorizon Zero Dawn is now free for everyone on PS4 and PS5.It will be available for free until May 14.Once you download it, it's yours to keep forever. It will not be removed from your library.Everyone on PS4 and PS5 can now download Horizon Zero Dawn for free thanks to PlayStation's Play At Home program, encouraging people to stay inside and play games. The program recently gave away Ratchet and Clank and a bunch of other titles for free, and it looks to continue the trend over the coming months.Horizon Zero Dawn is free from April 19 at 11pm ET until May 14, so that gives people a few weeks to take advantage of the offer. What's even better is that it's the Complete Edition, featuring the Frozen Wilds expansion. Once you download it, it's yours to keep forever. They won't be removed from your library at some arbitrary date in the future.This is an excellent way for Sony to drum up hyper before its sequel. I...
Reddit Talk is a Clubhouse clone that could boost AMAs on Android
No social media platform is safe from the Clubhouse takeover, not even Reddit.What you need to knowReddit has just announced its own Clubhouse clone, Reddit Talk.The platform works similarly to Clubhouse, with its own Reddit flair added to the mix.The service isn't widely available at the moment, but moderators can join the waitlist.Reddit just officially jumped on the Clubhouse train. Coming on the heels of Facebook's announcement, as well as other offerings like Twitter Spaces and Discord's Stage Channels, Reddit is rolling out with Reddit Talk. The service will offer a Clubhouse-like experience with Reddit's own particular flair.The platform revealed on Monday that Reddit Talk will be available within subreddits. It will feature hosts and audiences, and the host will be able to regulate the audio chats, meaning users can be invited, muted, or booted. Reddit hopes to bring more customization to the service with background colors, reactions, and interchangeable avatars...
Google Photos gets a 'Documents' section to separate receipts from recipes
Google Photos is now the place for your documents.What you need to knowGoogle Photos is rolling out with a new "documents" category.This new section will collect photos with visible text and categorize them based on their type.The update has started rolling out but has yet to reach a wide number of users.One of the best things about Google Photos is how it leverages AI to categorize your photos into various, easy-to-find collections. Recently, the app started integrating Google Lens features, such as a copy/paste tool that pulls text from images. Google is taking things a bit further by categorizing all of your photos with text into its own "Documents" category.Some users are noticing the new Documents section when navigating to the Search tab in Google Photos (via Android Police). Once inside, your images will be further categorized based on the type of "document" the app thinks it is. For instance, images of text messages will get their own album, as will cook covers, r...
Parler could soon return to the Play Store...but on one condition
Parler's sudden disappearance comes hours after a blunt ultimatum from the Apple App Store: moderate your platform or leave.Update, April 19 (06:00 pm ET): After Apple finally approved a Parler update, Google is likely to do as well.What you need to knowParler has been suspended from Google Play, pending improvements to its moderation system.The social media network has been the source of much criticism after Trump supporters and QAnon conspiracy theorists flocked to the platform.Apple is giving Parler 24 hours to address complaints regarding the content and moderation of its network or be banned from the App Store, but it appears Google is suspending first and then asking for changes to be let back in.It has been a very busy week for social media news! President Trump got permanently banned from Twitter earlier this afternoon after being suspended indefinitely from Facebook and Instagram yesterday, and earlier today, Apple issued a warning to the social media network tha...
Verizon's C-Band will cover fewer people than T-Mobile 2.5GHz by early 2022
What you need to knowVerizon with partners Ericsson and Samsung has begun deploying C-Band equipment to towers.Verizon plans to cover 100 million people with C-Band Ultra Wideband 5G by March 2022.T-Mobile counters that its mid-band 2.5GHz 5G already covers 125 million with 200 million by the end of 2021.T-Mobile also claims that its mid-band 5G has much better propagation than the 3.7 to 3.98GHz C-Band spectrumVerizon was the first company to really impress people with incredible wireless speeds on its Ultra Wideband millimeter-wave 5G network. Even as the speeds continued to climb, coverage was a constant issue with poor building penetration and inconsistent performance even with a line of sight to the tower. Verizon spent big on C-Band with an average of 161MHz nationwide once it's available. Verizon announced that it's working with partners Ericsson and Samsung and has begun to deploy C-Band equipment to its towers so it can flip the C-Band switch as soon as possible.I...
Ingenuity Mars Helicopter takes flight on your Google Search page
Google commemorates the first atmospheric, extraterrestrial flight with Ingenuity Mars Helicopter easter egg.What you need to knowGoogle has included a fun easter egg on the search page for the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter.When searching "Ingenuity," an interactive model of the helicopter will fly around your computer screen.NASA successfully conducted the first test flight of the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter on Monday.Monday represented a landmark moment as NASA completed the first powered test flight on Mars, thanks to the Mars Ingenuity Helicopter. It marks a major accomplishment for NASA and opens up a world of possibilities for unmanned planetary exploration. To commemorate the moment, Google Search has launched a fun Easter egg for anyone hoping to read up on the little helicopter that could and did.If you type in "Ingenuity," "Mars Ingenuity Helicopter," or any combination thereof, the associated Wikipedia card will display a small animation of the robot. Clicking on i...
Best Pixel 5 deals of April 2021: Where to buy Google's new phone
It's never too soon to start saving. Sure, the Google Pixel 5 is still brand new, but thanks to carriers and stores competing for your business, it's usually not too difficult to find an early discount on a popular product such as this. Pixel 5 deals may be limited at first, but we expect we'll be seeing plenty of offers in no time with carrier discounts arriving first and deals on unlocked devices following. Of course, if the Pixel 5 is out of your price range, there are also some stellar Pixel 4a deals available right now.Best Pixel 5 Deals Available NowCarrier Deals: Trade-in or BOGOUnlocked deals: Up to $130 offThe Google Pixel 5 offers a number of solid improvements upon the Pixel 4. Though its predecessor received some flak for its bad battery life, the Pixel 5 includes a 4080mAh battery that's miles better than the 2800mAh battery found in the Pixel 4. The cameras are receiving an upgrade as well; the telephoto lens from the Pixel 4 has been replaced with a standa...
Review: Outriders on PS5 is a fun game saddled with a forgettable story
You'll enjoy playing Outriders, but you probably won't remember it when you're done.Outriders is an enjoyable, if slightly formulaic, looter shooter that is at its best when it remembers to be fun and at its worst when it tries to tell a story. A solid core of fun gameplay, a simple but rewarding mod system, and a responsive difficulty curve do a lot to save the game from mediocrity, and Outriders is much better than mediocre.That said, a panoply of peripheral issues hold the game back from being a true delight. The problems with the gameplay are small, but once you notice them, they're very difficult to ignore. And if you want an engaging story, you can forget about it, because almost everything about Outriders' story and setting is forgettable.Also, as a side note: I don't want to address the server issues in great detail since I'm optimistic they'll be fixed over the next couple of weeks. However, they were there when I started playing, and have only marginally improved at t...
Android phone deals April 2021: $800 off Galaxy S21 and more
Getting a new phone in your hands doesn't have to be as expensive as you might think. There are always deals out there on Android phones but they tend to come and go rather quickly with other discounts appearing in their place. However, if you're hoping to buy one of the latest devices on the market, finding a proper deal is easier than ever these days.Best Android Phone DealsUnlocked dealsCarrier dealsWhen it comes to buying a new smartphone, there are two main types of deals to consider. You could buy your new phone unlocked so that you own it and can bring it to any carrier where it's compatible, or you can purchase devices through carrier deals at a retailer such as Verizon or T-Mobile.Carrier deals generally make you pay for the device in monthly installments and require that you add a line of service, which means you'll be locked into paying for the device (and your service contract) for a few years. Deals like these can be excellent if you're willing or need to ...
Protect your Galaxy A51 in glitter and glam with the best cases
The Galaxy A51 makes a great case for being one of best cheap Android phones on the market, so you'll want to make sure you get the best Galaxy A51 cases. With a sleek and overhauled design to go along with one of the best displays on a budget-friendly smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy A51 is sure to turn a few heads. But you'll still want to make sure to keep that design looking great for years to come, so check out some of our favorites case options.Form-fitting safetySpigen Liquid Air ArmorStaff PickNot many folks want a big, bulky case to slip their new phone into. The Spigen Liquid Air Armor solves this by offering a form-fitted solution. And the anti-slip surface will help prevent fingerprints while adding comfort and grip.$12 at AmazonAll the glitterWallme Waterfall Quicksand CaseWith the Wallme Waterfall Quicksand Case, you'll get fantastic drop protection thanks to the TPU material. Wallme also includes a two-pack of HD screen protectors in the box that ...
Facebook bringing audio chats and podcasts to Android this summer
Facebook is going all-in on audio.What you need to knowFacebook announced that it's launching a suite of audio products to put its own spin on the Clubhouse app.The new features include audio-only Rooms, podcasts, and audio clips on social feeds.The new features are currently in development and will launch within the next few months.Copying TikTok is so last year, and now all the social media platforms have moved over to the next big thing: Clubhouse. Given that the popular Clubhouse app is still not available on the best Android phones, Facebook has an opportunity to fill the void. The company already teased its plans to create its own version of the app and has even started testing a new Clubhouse-like Q&A service aimed at professionals. In a blog post on Monday, the company has just announced a suite of new audio features that it plans to launch soon.The first is the more obvious Clubhouse clone called Live Audio Rooms that the company plans to integrate into the...
HTC EVO 3D: Revisiting a decade-old technological dead-end
Right as HTC was peaking, so was one of the oddities of 2011 tech: 3D. I revisited the phone that combined the two.Android is coming up on its 13th birthday, which means many of the phones that drove the platform's early success are now a decade or more old. 2011, in particular, gave us the likes of the Galaxy S2 and first Galaxy Note — some of the best Android phones of their time — along with a lot of weird experimentation as the smartphone boom really started to take off.That's perfectly encapsulated by the HTC EVO 3D, which I've been playing with this past week for the first time in 10 years. Just as the Taiwanese phone maker was peaking in terms of brand awareness and market share, stereoscopic 3D displays were the new hotness. Growing up in the 90s, 3D TV, of the non-cardboard-glasses kind, seemed like science fiction. Now it could fit in a tiny rectangle in a device that also took 3D photos.Obviously, things didn't quite pan out — for 3D and, ultimately, HTC's ph...
Can you even expand PS5 SSD storage? What you need to know
SSD compatibility is complicated on PS5 right nowOne of the most exciting features about the PS5 is its lightning-fast SSD. With only 825GB of storage — and only around 667GB of it actually usable — it fills up quickly. An SSD means that developers can theoretically cut down on the size of games, but this only goes so far. In anticipation of Sony approving support for expanded SSD storage, we've created a handy guide to explain the differences between an SSD and HDD, how PS5 storage currently works, and more.Jump to:SSD vs HDD explainedPS5 SSD compatibilityExpanding your PS5 storageSSD vs HDD explainedSSDs (solid-state drive) tend to be faster and smaller than HDDs (hard disc drive) because the former uses flash-memory chips and does not having moving parts. HDDs, on the other hand, take longer to read/write information because they use magnetic tape and have internal moving parts. This is also why SSDs are usually more expensive than HDDs.According to Sony,...
Facebook gives you even more control over your posts and notes
Facebook's trying to make it easier to have control of your information.What you need to knowYou can now transfer Facebook posts to several platforms.These platforms include Google Docs, Blogger, and Wordpress. The feature comes as part of a larger 'Data Transfer Project' initiative.Facebook has been under quite a bit of fire for a myriad of privacy reasons over the past few years. However, the company has started to try and provide more control of your data and information. This started all the way back in 2019, with a new tool to move Facebook photos and videos to Google photos.The tool officially launched late in 2020, and now there's another tool being added to the arsenal. In a blog post, the Director of Privacy and Public Policy for Facebook, Steve Satterfield, revealed that a new tool is now avaialble for those that want to export and transfer posts or notes.With this new tool, dubbed 'Transfer Your Information' is easily accessible from the Facebook settings in ...
A guide to finding your new favorite Chromebook keyboard!
A good keyboard is essential, which is why you deserve only the best Chromebook keyboard for typing and the best Chromebook keyboard replacements when something goes wrong. Chrome OS plays well with most keyboards on the market, and whether you're looking for a travel-friendly keyboard to replace your Chromebook's sticking keys, need a wireless keyboard to use in bed, or you're a student looking for the perfect keyboard companion, we've got a keyboard for everyone! The number of keyboards with Chrome OS function keys is still relatively small, but all keyboards can still work with Chromebooks with F1-12 standing in for the function keys.Made for GoogleLogitech K580 Wireless Keyboard, Chrome OS EditionStaff PickYou can swap between two devices quickly on this slim keyboard, which has Chrome OS function keys up top, as well as a number pad with page up/down, home, and end keys. The connection is strong, and the key travel is a good depth for a long-lasting keyboard.$46 at A...
Apex Legends Mobile is entering beta this month
But don't worry. More regions will be added over time.What you need to knowApex Legends is coming to Android devices as Apex Legends Mobile.A regional beta starts later this month in India and the Philippines, with more regions being added over the year.Apex Legends Mobile is a brand new game, built from the ground up for mobile devices.It will not feature cross-progression or cross-play.The uber-popular free-to-play shooter Apex Legends will be coming to mobile soon as Apex Legends Mobile, with a regional beta launching later this month.EA announced that the regional beta will only be available for India and the Philippines at the start, but the plan is to include more countries over the course of the year. The first of these tests will only be available on Android devices, but will eventually expand to include iOS support as well.The publisher also provided the first details of the game, since they first expressed interest in porting Apex Legends mobile devices. This...
Your Galaxy Note 20 Ultra deserves the feel of a leather case
The best Note 20 cases can be found in all different sizes, colors, and shades, but the materials are what truly separate the class acts from the imitators. Plastic feels cheap, metal inhibits wireless charging, and wood can feel lovely but is inflexible. Leather is luxurious in hand, easy to work with, and it keeps your phone looking every bit as premium as its price tag. These are the best leather Galaxy Note 20 Ultra cases on the market today.First-party perfectionSamsung Leather CoverStaff PickSamsung's leather cases have been the ones to beat for years now. Perfectly matched to each of the Note 20 Ultra's colorways, this svelte cover is perfectly sculpted to every curve of the phone.From $25 at Amazon $46 at Best BuyFull grain feelSnakehive Vintage WalletI just absolutely adore the suede-like feel of a full-grain leather like that used on the Snakehive Vintage Wallet case. Even better, it's available in half a dozen colors, including a beautiful bottle green ...
Alleged Wear OS Galaxy Watch 4 battery capacity brings good and bad news
The Galaxy Watch 4 will need every bit of battery life it can muster.What you need to knowNew details have emerged about Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch 4.A report alleges that the smartwatch will feature at least one model with a larger battery capacity.There are still no details around when to expect Samsung's next smartwatch.While Samsung gears up for its next Galaxy Unpacked event, more details have emerged about the company's alleged Wear OS smartwatch. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has been rumored for some time, although specific details of the device have been pretty scarce. The latest report gives us an idea of what we can expect regarding battery capacity with some good news and some bad news.According to The Elec (via 9to5Google) the upcoming Galaxy Watch 4 will sport slightly different battery capacities from its predecessors. The 41mm version will reportedly come with a 240mAh battery, slightly down from the 247mAh battery on the same size Samsung Galaxy Watch 3...
PlayStation to continue PS3, Vita digital storefronts
This is great news for game preservation efforts.What you need to knowSony announced in March that it had plans to close the PS3, PS Vita, and PSP digital storefronts over the summer.Following widespread backlash and criticism online, the company has reversed its decision and will continue to operate the PS3 and PS Vita storefronts.The PSP storefront is still set to close on July 2, 2021.PlayStation CEO Jim Ryan has confirmed that the company will not close the PS3 and PS Vita digital storefronts after all. This comes a few weeks after Sony had announced its initial plans to close the PS3, PS Vita, and PSP storefronts this coming summer. After widespread criticism online, that decision has been reversed.In a post on the PlayStation Blog, Ryan goes on to say that it's clear the wrong decision was initially made. When we initially came to the decision to end purchasing support for PS3 and PS Vita, it was born out of a number of factors, including commerce support challe...
UK regulator presses pause on NVIDIA's $40 billion Arm acquistion
The UK is invoking national security concerns to halt this merger.What you need to knowThe UK has paused NVIDIA's ARM acquisition while it opens an investigation into national security concerns.It will also seek advice from interested third parties as part of this probe.NVIDIA has committed to cooperating with the investigation. NVIDIA's Arm purchase has just hit a snag as the UK today announced that it would be halting the $40 billion deal pending the results of a probe.The UK's Competiton and Markets Authority, or CMA, will be investigating the transaction. It will then issue a report focusing on "jurisdictional and competition issues" alongside a summary of any representations it receives on potential national security issues arising from a consultation it will launch to gather third-party views. One might imagine Qualcomm and Graphcore would have a lot to contribute to the third party views section, for example. Qualcomm had reached out to the CMA, alongside the FTC s...
The Fitbit Luxe proves that fitness trackers don't have to be basic
The most advanced, fashionable Fitbit tracker to date.What you need to knowFitbit just announced a stylish, high-end fitness tracker called the Luxe.The new Luxe is the first Fitbit tracker with a color screen, and it features many of the advanced health monitoring abilities of its premium smartwatches like the Sense.The tracker is available for preorder today for $149.99, with a special edition version coming in June for $199.99.Now that we're a full month into spring at this point, Fitbit has given us all another reason to get out, be active, and take better care of ourselves. The company just announced a new premium fitness tracker that it's calling the Fitbit Luxe.What is the Fitbit Luxe? The Fitbit Luxe is not only luxurious, but it is also a very advanced fitness tracker.From the looks of things, the new Fitbit Luxe is not only the best tracker that Fitbit has ever made, but it might be the best fitness tracker on the market today. It features a refined and e...
Should you buy the OnePlus Watch or Galaxy Watch Active 2?
Full smartwatch experienceSamsung Galaxy Watch Active 2$197 at AmazonProsGPS, HRM, NFCOptional LTETwo size optionsApp supportActivity/sleep trackingConsMore expensiveShorter battery lifeIt may not be the newest wearable out there, but the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is still as impressive as ever. It offers advanced health/fitness tracking, built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, optional LTE connectivity, electrocardiogram (ECG), NFC payments, and more.Falls short of a smartwatchOnePlus Watch$159 at OnePlusProsBuilt-in GPSHeart rate + blood oxygen monitoring14 days of battery lifeMusic storageActivity/sleep trackingConsRTOS limits smartwatch featuresLacks NFC, LTEThe primary reason to consider buying the OnePlus Watch is the affordable price tag. If you're new to wearables, it could be what you're looking for. It has GPS, heart-rate monitoring, activity/sleep tracking, and some other useful features. However, it falls short in...
Huawei under fire after new eavesdropping allegations
A new report revives concerns of impropriety.What you need to knowA new report claims that Huawei had the ability to eavesdrop on all numbers in the Dutch KPN network.This discovery was made as part of risk assessment by KPN in 2010. A Huawei spokesperson said, "Huawei has at all times worked under the explicit authorisation of KPN."Huawei has been accused of using its position as a telecoms component supplier to eavesdrop on all conversations taking place over the KPN Network, as reported this weekend by the Dutch de Volkskrant. The findings date from a 2010 risk assessment report commissioned by KPN. The company later refused to share these findings for unclear reasons.Courtesy of The Telegraph: The report, which was obtained by Dutch newspaper de Volkskrant, suggested that publishing these findings could severely damage KPN's reputation. The operator had 6.5m subscribers at the time. The report said: "The continued existence of KPN Mobile is in serious danger ...
Best OnePlus Deals for April 2021: $150 off OnePlus 8T and more
Deals on Apple iPhone devices and Samsung Galaxy phones are everywhere, but it's a bit more difficult to find a great deal on a OnePlus device. There are plenty of current OnePlus models to choose from, and whether you want a OnePlus 9, the OnePlus 8 Pro, or one of the more affordable OnePlus Nord devices is the first big question you'll need to answer for yourself.Best OnePlus Deals Available NowOnePlus 9 devices: up to 30% accessoriesOnePlus Nord devices: free case or screen protectorOnePlus 8 devices: up to $350 offWhich to buy?All of the deals below vary in nature, so while some allow you to buy the unlocked phone with a single purchase today, others require a monthly payment plan; these plans are attached to carriers which usually require you to add a line of service or buy a second device to score the savings. Be sure to read the details of the deal you choose carefully as each offer is different.With so many different OnePlus models out there, you may not see ...
Should you buy the OnePlus 8 Pro or OnePlus 8 in 2021?
True flagshipOnePlus 8 Pro$700 at OnePlusProsBigger, better display at 120HzWireless chargingBetter camerasConsTougher to use one-handed$200 moreSame front-facing cameraOnePlus put together all of its strengths in hardware, specs, and software and finally added in missing features like water resistance, wireless charging, and a top-notch screen. It also has a fantastic quad camera setup, and while it is one of the costliest phones OnePlus has ever sold — it is worth it.A real bargainOnePlus 8$500 at OnePlusProsLess expensive for same core featuresEasier to use with one handSame great specsStrong battery lifeConsWeaker rear camerasSmaller, lower-res screen at 90HzThe OnePlus 8 follows more of the traditional OnePlus model: deliver a flagship-like experience with top-end hardware and specs for hundreds less. Even with a higher price than the 7T, you can still see great value in the 8. You just lose out on the top-end cameras, sc...
Samsung’s next foldable phones will reportedly have IP ratings
The two phones could be a lot more durable than their predecessors.What you need to knowSamsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 2 will reportedly come with an IP rating.The exact rating, however, hasn't been revealed yet. Both phones are rumored to debut at an Unpacked event in July. Last week, a report out of South Korea claimed the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 3 will not have a dedicated S Pen slot due to space constraints and "water resistance issues." A new report from SamMobile now claims both the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 2 will come with an IP rating.While Samsung's best Android phones are water and dust resistant, we haven't seen a foldable with an IP rating yet. The report doesn't specify the exact rating, but does suggest that the phones aren't likely to have the same IP68 rating as the Galaxy S21 Ultra.The Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 2 are rumored to be unveiled at an Unpacked event in July. As per a recent leak, the Galaxy Z Fol...
These are the absolute best Pixel 5 cases you can buy right now
It may be hard to pick the best Google Pixel 5 case because there will be so many options. Whether you want a ruggedly handsome heavy-duty case, a super slim and stylish case, or something in between like the perfectly balanced Caseology Parallax, these are the best Google Pixel 5 cases to be found right now.Safe and stylishCaseology ParallaxStaff PickThis mesmerizing case has protected my last two Pixels with grace, and the colorways for the Pixel 5 are quite fetching. The Aqua Green will fit the green Pixel 5 perfectly, while Burgundy and Navy Blue jazz up the black Pixel 5.From $14 at Amazon $19 at WalmartLong-term protectionTudia Dualshield Merge SeriesIf you want a heavy-duty case without a heavy-duty price, Tudia has been the go-to for years. The Merge Series gives you the impact protection and grip of a flexible TPU sleeve with the sturdiness of a polycarbonate back.$12 at AmazonMachine washableGoogle Fabric CaseGoogle's fabric cases are luxurious...
Latest OnePlus 9/9 Pro update improves camera performance
The update includes a number of big fixes as well.What you need to knowOnePlus has rolled out a new stable OxygenOS 11 update for its latest OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro phones.The update brings the latest April 2021 security patch and a few camera performance improvements. Currently, the update is only rolling out to OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro users in India. The OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro are among the best Android phones that have been launched so far this year, offering solid hardware and a great software experience. Even though the phones went on sale just a few weeks back, OnePlus has already rolled out three software updates to make them even better. The company has now started rolling out another OxygenOS update for its latest flagship phones, bringing a bunch of camera improvements and the latest April 2021 Android security patch.As reported by the folks at XDA Developers, the OxygenOS 11.2.4.4 update is currently limited to users in India. However, it is likely to become available in ...
Connect a Chromebook to an external monitor with these quick steps
Chromebooks are cool, but they're even cooler when you get to use them with an external monitor and spread out all your work. You have a few options for connecting your Chromebook up depending on your ports, your monitor, and how much you need out of a second screen. Here's how to connect your Chromebook to a monitor, whether it has a dedicated port or not.Jump to:HDMI portUSB-C hubsCastingUSB-C monitorsTurning off your Chromebook screenMethod 1: HDMI port on a ChromebookOnce upon a time, most Chromebooks actually came with an HDMI port right there on the side of the laptop. Still, with the advent of USB-C and the ability of USB-C to be used for both charging, data, and video at the same time, it makes a lot of sense that manufacturers dropped the bulkier HDMI port and instead relied upon USB-C.The middle port here is an HDMI port, which stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, the A/V standard that has been the most popular video cable/port standard for...
Every PS5 video game delay in 2021: Upcoming release dates
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced developers to adapt their work pipelines and finish games from home. This has led to multiple delays.Last year began with a slew of high-profile game delays, most notably Cyberpunk 2077 and the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, but then COVID-19 struck and and threw the games industry through a loop. Now that we're into 2021, we'll only be seeing more delays as developers truly begin to understand the effects of the pandemic on their work pipeline. One of the first major delays to come this year was Hogwarts Legacy, being pushed into 2022.We've compiled a list of every game that have been delayed into 2021 and beyond. Some of these games have been delayed indefinitely while others have release windows or a final release date.We'll continually update this list as more games are delayed.Jump to:Back 4 BloodDeathloop Destiny 2: The Witch QueenDying Light 2Far Cry 6Gotham KnightsGran Turismo 7Hogwarts LegacyKena: Bridge of SpiritsLego Star War...
Redmi is working on a ROG Phone 5 rival with a 144Hz screen, 67W charging
The phone is expected to debut in China by the end of this month.What you need to knowRedmi's upcoming gaming phone is tipped to feature a Samsung E4 AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate.The phone will be powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 1200 chipset. It is expected to be a lot more affordable than flagship gaming phones like the ASUS ROG Phone 5 and Nubia RedMagic 6 Pro. Xiaomi's Redmi sub-brand is expected to announce its first-ever gaming phone later this month. Although Redmi hasn't revealed the launch date of the gaming phone yet, it did confirm last week that it is partnering with Call of Duty Mobile for the launch. Alleged tech specs of the device have now surfaced, courtesy of a report from Sina.The Redmi gaming phone will apparently be powered by MediaTek's flagship Dimensity 1200 5G chipset, which was announced in January this year. The Dimensity 1200 is MediaTek's answer to the Snapdragon 888 and is built on a 6nm manufacturing process.As you would expect ...
Which brand is the video doorbell king: Nest or Ring?
3D Vision and moreRing Video Doorbell Pro 2$250 at AmazonPros3D motion detectionBirds-eye viewHead-to-toe videoAlexa Greetings and quick repliesGreat integration with AlexaConsPoor Google services integrationRequires a subscription for most featuresNo battery backupPriceyRing Video Doorbell Pro 2 brings a new kind of 3D motion detection to the table, with pinpoint accuracy complete with an overhead map of your property. If you can't (or don't want to) come to the door, Alexa can even answer a doorbell press for you, giving instructions or taking a message.Sheer brillianceNest Hello Video Doorbell$180 at Best BuyProsFacial recognitionHead-to-toe videoGreat integration with Google and Nest productsConsPoor Alexa integrationRequires a subscription for most featuresSubscription is twice the priceNo battery backupIf you're already invested in the Google Home platform, Nest Hello is one of the very best video doorbells you can buy...
Samsung's next-gen Galaxy S22 just had its first big leak
Samsung hasn't launched a new flagship phone with a 3D ToF sensor since last year.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy S22 series phones will not feature 3D ToF sensors.The company apparently believes 3D ToF sensors do not offer any "clear advantages." The last Samsung flagship phone with a 3D ToF sensor was the Galaxy S20 Ultra. According to South Korean publication ETNews, Samsung has decided not to equip its Galaxy S22 series phones with a 3D ToF sensor, as consumer response to its phones without 3D ToF sensors has been "not so bad."The Galaxy S10 5G was Samsung's first flagship phone to include a 3D ToF sensor. Samsung used the tech on the Galaxy S20 Ultra as well, but ditched it for the Galaxy Note 20. The Galaxy S21 Ultra, which is one of the best Android phones on the market right now, doesn't include a 3D ToF sensor either.Per the report, Samsung started considering using the tech once again after Apple added it to its iPhone 12 lineup last year. Ultimately, ho...
How are you liking the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro's cameras?
Chatting with the AC forums.Now that the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro have been available for a while, and we're anxious to see how their cameras live up to the Hasselblad hype. In our testing and personal usage, we already consider both devices to be among the best Android phones available, thanks to their impressive screens, clean software, durable construction, and long battery life. But how do they compare among the best Android cameras?Thankfully, our industrious community members have already started a thread on the AC forums to share their best OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro camera samples. Check it out, and contribute if you're so inclined (click through each post to see the user photos)! mustang7757 04-07-2021 12:16 PM “ Let's see some photos Reply msm0511 04-08-2021 08:13 AM “ Haven't even gotten the chan...
A limited Google Pixel 5a launch may be a smarter strategy than you think
You've got to pick your battles.As reported last week, Google is drastically scaling back the Pixel A-line this year. Rather than the relatively wide launch like the Pixel 4a of last year, it's launching the new Pixel 5a 5G in only two countries — the U.S. and Japan. Even for Google's modest Pixel ambitions, this is unlikely to be a good sign. But rather than dwell on the doom and gloom scenarios, there are some things we can take away from Google's revised strategy.First and most obviously, Google's Pixel 5a is launching. Despite the chip shortage that's plaguing the world, the company is going ahead with this. If Google did want to scale back on its hardware ambitions and only focus on one device, it had the perfect opportunity to cancel the Pixel 5a. It didn't even need to comment on the Pixel 5a rumors. After all, reports of the Pixel 4a XL being canceled did nothing to stop the Pixel 4a 5G from launching (and Google didn't comment on those rumors either). That Google did s...
This Fire HD 8 and Blink Mini bundle costs less than the tablet alone
If you are even the slightest bit interested in setting up some smart security surveillance for your home, then you're not going to want to miss this one-day deal at Amazon that bundles a Blink Mini camera with a Fire HD 8 tablet.With the deal, you can snag the 32GB tablet with the HD cam for less than the price of the tablet alone. At just $74.99, you're saving $50 on the price of the two devices bought separately.The 2020 edition of Amazon's Fire HD 8 tablet brings the iterative updates that you'd expect from a new model and today's promotion is one of the best Fire tablet deals you're going to find anywhere right now. It features up to 12 hours of mixed-use battery life, an 8-inch HD display, a 2.0GHz quad-core processor, and 2GB RAM. It features 32GB of built-in storage with microSD support up to 1TB. The 8-inch device also got USB-C fast charging for the first time and it also features hands-free Alexa and Game Mode.The Blink Mini cam is purpose-built to work in your home ...
One-day Ring Video Doorbell deals let you smarten up your door from $70
With all the packages we receive these days, it makes total sense to equip your front door with a smart video doorbell. They used to be an expensive luxury but video doorbells are actually pretty cheap these days, especially with sales like this one at Woot offering the Ring Video Doorbell 2 and Ring Video Doorbell Pro from just $69.99.Woot is offering the smart home devices in used condition with as much as half off their usual prices. Each unit has been tested to ensure they are in full working order, though they may exhibit some cosmetic blemishes. There's also a 90-day Woot warranty included with your purchase in case of any issues.With the Ring Video Doorbell 2, you can see, hear, and speak to visitors at your door by using an app on your phone, tablet, or computer. It's equipped with a camera that records in 1080p HD with infrared night vision so you can see what's going on outside your home no matter what time of day it is, and it's all accessible from anywhere in the worl...
FA Cup live stream: How to watch the football tournament from anywhere
Steeped in tradition and sporting romance, the FA Cup remains the footballing world's most famous domestic knockout tournament. Read on to find out how to get an FA Cup live stream and watch matches from this season's tournament online from anywhere.While it may have lost its top-tier tournament status and priority with managers in England in recent years to the Premier League, the "magic of the cup" remains for fans and players alike.Much of what makes it special comes from the fact that any team from the top 10 tiers of English soccer are eligible to take part, offering the dream of a trip to Wembley for the showpiece final for lower league opposition.While the chances of FA Cup glory are now somewhat remote for smaller clubs (you'd have to go all the way back to 1980 and West Ham's shock win over Arsenal for the last time a team outside of the top division lifted the tournament's famous jug-like trophy), the tournament does nevertheless continue to throw up giant-killing r...
Tech enthusiasts shouldn't forget about Earth Day
Let's come together to help heal the planet as we heal ourselves.Now that we're firmly into year two of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's easy to forget that another Earth Day is almost upon us; but sure enough, it'll be here in just a few days. Many traditional environmental pressures and stressors have eased a bit over the past year due to fewer people driving, flying, and moving about. More and more companies have also started to make sustainability a more important, and even a core, principle in their missions and business activities. Still, those improvements are not nearly enough to deal with the constant and growing threat of environmental pollution, economic disparity, and climate change.We all have a role to play in making this world a better place for ourselves and future generations — not just this Earth Day 2021, but for all days moving forward. With that in mind, here are some ways that we as enthusiasts can do our part to practice more mindful and sustainable technology...
Don't miss out on your chance to save $400 on Sony's X900H 75-inch 4K TV
This unique sale at Amazon features the Sony X900H 75-inch 4K HDR smart TV on sale for just $1,598. It has also dropped this low at other retailers like Best Buy. The TV normally sells for around $2,000, and it hasn't dropped this low since Black Friday's deals. This is a 2020 model, but Sony replaced it in 2021 with the X90J lineup, which doesn't go up to 75 inches yet and is significantly more expensive even on the 65-inch version. If you need a big, beautiful screen sitting in your living room, this is it.The X900H has a wide range of compatibility with other systems. For one thing, it has Android TV built right in along with Google Assistant. Not only can you control the TV with just your voice, you can also use this functionality to control the rest of your smart home. Search for TV shows and movies, get answers to questions, and more. The TV also works with Amazon Alexa. If you have an Alexa device nearby, you can use your TV to view camera feeds, launch apps, turn up the vol...
Keep an eye on your baby with the Eufy Spaceview baby monitor down to $130
The Eufy Spaceview 720p baby monitor has dropped to $129.99 at Best Buy. This is one of Best Buy's deals of the day, which means the price is temporary and will be gone by this time tomorrow. The baby monitor normally sells for around $170 at Best Buy and $160 elsewhere. While we have seen it go lower than today's deal, this is within $20 of the best price we've ever seen and it's the best price available right now. The same baby monitor is going for $10 more on Amazon, and that's only after you clip the on-page coupon.This baby monitor lets you both see and hear your little one. The 5-inch 720p display is better than most monitors you'll find on the market, and there's a wide-angle lens included for when your kid transitions from crib to climbing-out-of-the-crib-and-wreaking-havoc. Fun times. You can tilt and pan the lens to see corner-to-corner, and there's a wall mount included for customized coverage. The night vision mode allows you to see in the dark.This also has some nice...
Is the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 worth it over the Video Doorbell 3?
Make Alexa answer the doorRing Video Doorbell Pro 2$250 at AmazonPros3D motion detectionBirds-eye viewHead-to-toe videoAlways recordingAlexa GreetingsSmaller, sleeker designConsPoor Google services integrationRequires a subscription for most featuresNo battery backupRing threw everything and the kitchen sink into the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, a doorbell that can see and do it all. It can even answer itself thanks to Alexa!A wireless dreamRing Video Doorbell 3$180 at AmazonProsLess expensiveCan be hard-wired or run on batteryConsPoor Google services integrationRequires a subscription for most featuresNo pre-roll videoLower resolution and less effective aspect ratioRing Video Doorbell 3 is one of Ring's best video doorbells from 2020 and is now a better value than ever thanks to its new lower price. However, the Video Doorbell Pro 2 just bests it in most categories.Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 and Ring Video Doorbell 3 are ...
Save every bit of data with the WD Easystore 14TB hard drive down to $220
Have you taken a look at your computer recently and lamented the lack of open space? Well, fret no more. You're going to be looking for all new things to download with this drive. The WD easystore 14TB External USB 3.0 hard drive has dropped to $219.99 at Best Buy. That's a ton of space for a very inexpensive price. With this sale, the 14TB version is the same cost as the 12TB version so you're essentially getting two terabytes for free. The 14TB drive normally sells for around $300 or more.As a desktop external hard drive, the Easystore is not a drive meant to travel with you. It should be sitting on your desk serving as a semi-permanent storage for your media. Because of that, WD also makes it really easy to use these drives to back up your system. Use the WD Backup software and you'll be able to set a schedule that backs up your data regularly.If you just want something for your photos, videos, and documents, use the WD Discovery software to back up all of that information eas...
How to watch the 2021 Academy of Country Music Awards online from anywhere
Grab your cowboy hat and boots because the Academy of Country Music is heading back to Nashville, Tennessee for this year's awards show and we have all the details on how you can watch the 56th annual ACM Awards on TV or online.This year's awards show will once again be hosted by 15-time ACM Award winner Keith Urban but this time around he'll have a co-host as he'll be joined on stage by New Female Artist of the Year nominee Mickey Guyton. Just like last year, the show will be broadcast not from one but from three famous Nashville stages and there will be performances at the Grand Ole Opry House, the historic Ryman Auditorium, and The Bluebird Cafe.When it comes to the nominees, Chris Stapleton and Maren Morris lead the pack with six nominations each. Coming in second is the most-nominated female artist in ACM history Miranda Lambert with five nominations. Additionally, Gwen Stefani and John Legend were both nominated for an Academy of Country Music Award for the first time.At ...
How to watch MotoGP Portugal: Live stream the race online
The third round of the 2021 MotoGP season sees the riders return to Portimao after an enthralling double-header opener in Qatar. Don't miss a single lap with our guide to getting a MotoGP Portugal 2021 live stream.Pramac's Johann Zarco comes into this weekend's action as the early season leader thanks to his pair of second-place finishesThe Qatar races saw Yamaha factory duo Maverick Vinales and Fabio Quartararo both enjoy wins, with Ducati's Francesco Bagnaia also making a good start to the campaign with his podium finish in the first race at the Losail International Circuit lifting him to fourth in the standings.Unquestionably the big talking point coming into this weeknd's race is the return of six-time champ Marc Marquez after a lengthy lay off.The Spanish rider spent much of last season looking on from the sidelines after sustaining an right arm break that required three separate surgeries to put right.Now finally race-fit after nine months off the grid, Marquez retur...
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: Best overall VPN for security2. NordVPN: One of the best secure VPNs3. CyberGhost: Great value for money security4. VyprVPN: Super-fast performance5. IPVanish: Power and performance1. ExpressVPN: Best overall VPN for security and moreThis is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of seucirty, speed, reliability, outstanding customer service, and affordability. There is a 30-day money-back guaran...
How to watch Paul vs Askren online anywhere
After successfully knocking out the former NBA star Nate Robinson at his last boxing match, YouTuber Jake Paul is back and ready to take on former MMA WelterWeight champion Ben Askren and we have all the details on how you can watch Jake Paul vs Ben Askren on TV or online.So far, the 24-year-old younger brother of Logan Paul, has managed to win both of his matches as a professional boxer. In his first match against fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib, Paul ended things quickly with a first-round TKO after scoring three knockdowns. His match with Robinson ended in a similar way after the second round but now he'll be going up against a more seasoned fighter.During his time in the UFC, Askren won one match against Robbie Lawler before being defeated by both Jorge Masvidal and Demian Maia during the one year he was with the promotion. Before that, he had a two-year/six-fight contract with the Singapore-based MMA sports association One Championship where he performed even better than he did in...
These are the best USB-C headphones around
While manufacturers are making sure to cut off all cords as part of their increased focus on wireless headphones, it doesn't mean wired connections aren't an option. Bluetooth headphones are great, but if you'd rather do without the latency and charging process, USB-C headphones are a great alternative to both. Just plug and play, and that's it.Go boldRAZER Hammerhead USB-C ANCStaff PickThese earbuds already stand out with the neon green finish, but they also have booming sound and active noise cancelation (ANC). They also come with plenty of tips to get the comfy fit you'd want while wearing them for longer periods.$100 at Walmart $99 at NeweggWireless first with USB-C audioSennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless Noise Canceling HeadphonesWhile the Momentum 3 Wireless are Bluetooth first, they work just like a pair of USB-C wired headphones. Even better, you can charge them at the same time you're listening to music. A premium design and solid sound with ANC means you get...
Stop malware threats with one of these best antivirus software options
Cyber attacks are on the rise, including data breaches that leave personal information compromised. One of the best ways to protect yourself is with an antivirus program designed to keep your locally stored information and your internet data secure. I spent several months testing and reevaluating the top antivirus programs currently available in 2021. While there haven't been many changes since last year, these recommendations will keep your computers, mobile devices and networks as secure as possible. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is still the best antivirus program with real-time protection that stops and scrubs threats from your system before they have a chance to start downloading. Still, there are several other excellent programs on this list to choose from, including a handful of these solutions that work with mobile devices. Check out my picks for the best antivirus apps for Android to see a more comprehensive list.Best Antivirus Overall: Bitdefender Antivirus PlusBitdefend...
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