Latest from Android Central

Google Messages will take after iMessage on tablets.What you need to knowGoogle Messages may be preparing a new tablet experience.The updated UI will keep a list of conversations on one side and the current message thread on another side.Google Messages will also bring new cross-device messaging capabilities.Google has been hard at work making Google Messages as useful as possible as a messaging app. The latest update hints at upcoming features that will arrive for the application, mostly aimed at tablets.XDA-Developers dove into the latest version of Google Messages and discovered a string that will enable a split-screen view. This will keep the list of message threads on the left side of the display while displaying the current message on the right side. This should help make it easier to navigate the app when using any of the best Android tablets, letting users easily jump between threads. It's not unlike how iMessage functions on Apple tablets like the iPad Pro (2020)...

You shouldn't expect to find any message content yet, however.What you need to knowTwitter is adding a search bar to messaging on Android.This follows a similar feature added to iOS back in 2019.Today's update will let you find message threads, but a future update will add in message content search.Twitter is making a small improvement to how direct messaging works on Android phones. It'll now allow users to search their message threads with a new search bar that lives at the top of the direct messaging screen. The same bar came to its iOS app and the web a couple of years back, but the company is finally bringing it to its Android app.Once this rolls out, you'll be able to find any conversation in your direct messages inbox, as long as you know the name of the other party. If you'd chatted with Jeff from the bar two years ago, you'd normally have to scroll all the way down. This time, you can type in "Jeff", and watch the search bar do the rest of the work. The previous ...

If you're in the market for a new Wear OS smartwatch and happen to like classically styled watches, then the Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle is going to be for you. Fossil is one of the few Wear OS watchmakers out there that continues to produce not only good-looking wearables but also adds top-of-the-line specs to the equation. The Carlyle has a classic look that can work for almost any occasion with swappable bands, snappy performance, and a speaker for calls. Fossil has some other great choices as well. Whether it's a sports focus, fashion, or even a hybrid watch — Fossil has an option for you.Best overall: Fossil Gen 5 CarlyleWhile Wear OS may have some shortcomings, the Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle does a fantastic job making the best of an okay situation. From a style standpoint, the Carlyle has all the makings of a classic watch with its round casing and three-button layout. You have a rotating crown that lets you scroll through notifications, apps and make selections for navigating the ...

Those Oculus Quest 2 controllers might be pearly white, but a few months' usages could leave them looking a bit drab. If your controller's buttons stick a bit when pressed in, or the joystick doesn't move quite like it used to, you might need to clean your Oculus Quest 2 controllers. Once you've got them cleaned, the best Oculus Quest 2 controller accessories will help keep them clean for longer and will make those controllers even more comfortable to use over time.How to clean your Oculus Quest 2 controllersSlide off the battery door on each controller and remove the battery inside.Replace the battery door without a battery inside.Use a cleaning wipe of your choice to wipe down the controller, but make sure it's not sopping wet. You don't want it to be so wet that liquid gets inside of the controller.Let the controller dry for a few minutes.If necessary, use a can of compressed air to forcefully blow out any particles that might be lodged in the crevices of the controll...

What you need to knowAlleged renders of the Google Pixel 6 have emerged for the first time.The images show a drastically different design language for the device.The Pixel 6 is rumored to launch later this year towards the fall.After rumors swirled for some time about Google's next flagship Pixel, leaker Jon Prosser revealed images of Google Pixel 6, giving us our first look at what the device will look like. The images (below) show a very different Pixel than what we've seen from the last few models, thanks to a fairly drastic change in design.On the display side, Google has moved the selfie camera to the middle of the display, which matches previous rumors of the device. The Pixel 6 is also allegedly going to feature an in-display fingerprint sensor, moving away from the rear sensor.The camera array has also been changed from the stove-like design found on its predecessors like the Google Pixel 5. It's now a protruding horizontal array with two or three camera sensors, ...

You can go back to uploading images to your Amazon Photos albums.What you need to knowAmazon Photos is back online after a recent outage.The outage lasted more than a day, preventing some users from uploading or viewing their photos.Amazon Photos is a cloud storage app available at no extra cost to Prime subscribers.After a prolonged outage, Amazon Photos appears to be back online. The cloud storage platform suffered an outage on May 11 that has been resolved as of this morning. That's according to an email received by some users of Amazon Photos here at Android Central, as well as the Amazon Photos Twitter account:The Amazon Photos service is fully back up. We apologize for the inconvenience caused to you. Please contact us if you are still seeing any issues.— Amazon Photos (@AmazonPhotos) May 13, 2021The issue prevented many users of Amazon Photos from uploading images or even viewing their photos on the best Amazon Echo Show devices like the Amazon Echo Show 10 (...

Whether you've recently purchased the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 or you've had it for a while now, you're probably eager to get a stylish new band to go with it. We know how important it is to find a match for your needs. You want to be happy with all aspects of your investment, after all. Both the 40mm and 44mm versions of the watch are compatible with 20mm bands, so it'll be easy to find a favorite. We've rounded up the best Galaxy Watch Active 2 bands out there.Waterproof permeabilitySycreek Silicone Watch BandStaff PickThis band from Sycreek is made with high-quality silicone that's waterproof and anti-sweat, so it'll be suitable for all your workouts, even swimming. It's also the perfect band for those who prefer the pin-and-tuck design over a traditional bulky watch buckle.From $4 at AmazonUltra-soft durabilityFullmosa Silicone Rubber Watch BandThis waterproof, non-toxic, wear-resistant silicone band comes in eight vibrant color options. It's a nice...

Best answer: Google Stadia launched in 2019 as a way for players to access the games they love without needing a console or dedicated gaming PC to play them. Since its initial launch, Stadia's modest amount of playable games has seen steady growth, with a ton of new titles becoming available in the months to come, with many more on the horizon.Full Google Stadia game listA Place for the UnwillingAry and the Secret of Seasons Assassin's Creed Odyssey Assassin's Creed OriginsAssassin's Creed SyndicateAssassin's Creed UnityAssassin's Creed ValhallaAttack on Titan 2: Final BattleAVICII InvectorBaldur's Gate III Early AccessBorderlands 3Cake BashCelesteChronos: Before the AshesCosmic Star HeroineCraytaCthulhu Saves ChristmasCyberpunk 2077Darksiders GenesisDead by DaylightDestiny 2Destroy All Humans!Dirt 5 Disco Elysium: The Final Cut DOOMDOOM 64DOOM EternalDragon Ball Xenoverse 2Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive AgeEl Hijo - A Wild West TaleEmbr Ea...

Let's hope this is just the beginning and more colors are released down the line.What you need to knowSony unveiled two new colors for its DualSense lineup of controllers.Cosmic Red and Midnight Black will be available in June.They are now up for preorder on Amazon. Cosmic Red costs $75 while Midnight Black is the usual $70.Earlier today PlayStation revealed two new dazzling colors for the PS5 DualSense, Cosmic Red and Midnight Black. Both of these controllers are now available to preorder on Amazon. Though Amazon says they're expected to ship on June 18, Sony lists their release date as June 11 in the United States. Either way, for anyone's who's been able to buy a PS5, you have some enticing controller color options coming your way very soon.VibrantPS5 DualSense (Cosmic Red)$75 at AmazonInspired by the unique shades of red in the cosmosTired of your plain white DualSense controller? You can spice it up with Cosmic Red. This upcoming color option features a t...

More for lessWyze Bulb Color$27 at AmazonFrom $20 at WyzeProsLess expensiveAll of the features work without a hubBetter color reproductionBrighterWorks with Google Assistant and AlexaConsSmaller ecosystem of compatible devicesThe Wyze Bulb Color offers bright whites and vibrant colors for a fraction of the cost of its competitors. Connecting over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, you get a wide range of features at your disposal through the Wyze app, along with voice control with your digital assistant.Less for morePhilips Hue White & Color Ambiance A19$50 at Amazon$50 at Best Buy$50 at WalmartProsCan work with some Hue accessoriesCan function without a hubGoogle Assistant and Alexa compatibilityGood range of whitesConsLimited functionality without a hubNo Wi-Fi connectivityExpensive per bulbPhilips Hue has a broad ecosystem of lights and accessories that work well together. However, the cost per bulb, with or without a hub, is high. ...

After blowing up on the iPhone, Clubhouse is now on Android.Update, May 13 (11:30 pm ET) Clubhouse today announced an expansion to Canada and other English speaking countriesWhat you need to knowClubhouse is now available in beta on Android.It's only available in the U.S. at the moment, with a UK release in the coming days.The invite-only system will remain for the near future. After an earlier private beta teased last week, Clubhouse today announced that it would be making its debut on Android after an earlier announcement this year. The app had taken off in the heyday of the pandemic and spawned many imitators, but had neglected the Android market for a while. There are a few caveats. This is still a beta, it's still invite-only, and you'll need to be in the U.S. to use it (though an expansion to other English-speaking markets has been promised.)Writing over on the Clubhouse blog, the team said: Our plan over the next few weeks is to collect feedback from the comm...

WiredAstro A40 TR headset$150 at AmazonProsAmazing audioFabric earcupsAstro Command Center customization softwareMod kit-readyConsMixAmp Pro requires a separate adapter on PS5Headset clamp can be uncomfortable with glassesThe Astro A40 TR isn't all too different from the A50. Setting itself apart with a wired connection and an optional MixAmp Pro, the Astro A40 is a great headset for PS5. Just don't forget you'll need an adapter for full MixAmp compatibility.WirelessAstro A50 headset$300 at AmazonProsImpeccable audio qualityExtremely comfortableNear-instant pairing Premium buildConsNeeds separate adapter on PS5Very expensive15-hour battery lifeThe Astro A50's 15-hour battery life hurts an otherwise wonderful headset. It still needs an HDMI adapter to work with PS5 fully, but you'll be treated to an exceptional audio experience that many consider the best in the business.Astro is one of the most well-respected companies in...

Users have to search "vaccination near me" in Search or Maps to get even more information.What you need to knowCanadians will have more details on the COVID-19 vaccine rollout when they search in Google Search or in Maps.Google says it is working on making more information available. Google is also partnering with YouTube creators to release videos that offer information about COVID-19 and the vaccine.In an effort to educate more Canadians, Google is going to make it easier to learn "why, when, and where" you can get vaccinated on Google Maps and in Google Search.A new blog post from the tech giant said that as vaccine rollouts ramp up, the company is working to "provide Canadians with accurate information about vaccination facts and location."Google says that searching for "vaccines near me" has increased 10 times in the past month as more Canadians become eligible to get the vaccine. Similar efforts were made to residents in India.Users now just have to type in "COVID...

The phone may go on sale in the U.S. sometime in the third quarter of the year.What you need to knowA new listing suggests the Xperia 1 III won't begin shipping in the U.S. until August 31.The phone was announced last month, alongside the Xperia 5 III.It is the world's first phone to feature a 4K 120Hz display. Sony recently announced the Xperia 1 III, the world's first phone to come with a 4K 120Hz display and a Dual-PD sensor. While there is no doubt that Sony's latest flagship phone is a solid rival to Samsung's Galaxy S21 Ultra, you may have to wait months to get your hands on one.According to a listing for the Xperia 1 III on the B&H website, the phone will begin shipping in the U.S. on August 31 (via TechRadar). Sony hasn't confirmed a release date for the phone yet, so there is a small possibility of the date listed by B&H being wrong. However, the Japanese tech giant is infamous for launching its phones months after their announcement. The Xperia 1 II ar...

Getting your hands on a new Android phone doesn't have to break the bank. With today's deal on the Google Pixel 3, you can even get your hands on one of Google's own-brand devices for just $160. While it may no longer be the most recent Pixel offering, it's still a compact and powerful phone and this price is around $40 less than what it retails for these days.Unlike a lot of Woot deals, the Pixel 3 on sale today is offered brand new and with a 1-year warranty. The phone is a Verizon model though it is unlocked to work with all the major U.S. carriers.The Google Pixel 3 sports a 5.5-inch OLED display, 64GB capacity, and 4GB RAM, along with a powerful Snapdragon 845 processor. It's also equipped with a 12MP rear camera that has awesome features like Night Sight and Top Shot, plus dual selfie cams with wide-angle and portrait capabilities. It has front-facing stereo speakers, a USB-C port, and even offers IP68 water resistance. For an in-depth look at the device, be sure to look ov...

The best monitor light bars can brighten your workspace for easier reading without boosting the brightness of the screen, which can be taxing on your eyes. Light bars usually don't take up much, or any, additional space on your desk and don't cost a lot. And this is especially important if you're using an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse with a computer, like a Chromebook, and thus have minimal desk space. As you look toward enhancing your home office with items that can help you be more productive and better organize the space, we've done the research to identify and rank the best monitor light bars for your home office or workspace.Best for customizationLOFTER Screen Bar LightStaff PickWith three lighting modes, including warm, cool, and natural, and 10 brightness levels via a total of 84 LEDs, this light's slim and sleek design keeps crucial desk space free. There's no glare or shadows thanks to the convenient angle, and it's easy to set up, plugging in via USB.$3...

Improvements to Wear OS could be on the way for a potential Pixel Watch.What you need to knowGoogle is sending out surveys to Wear OS users.The survey asks users to describe what they like and dislike about Wear OS.A second survey asks about the importance of certain features.Wear OS users are receiving surveys on their smartphones to gauge just how much users like Wear OS. The survey was spotted by Reddit users, although it has been received by some here at Android Central. The survey appears as a notification on the best Android phones, navigating users to complete it within the Wear OS app.The survey asks users questions about how satisfied they are with Wear OS. There are even sections of the survey where users can comment on what they like and dislike about the platform. Once completed, a link to an additional survey appears, asking more in-depth questions about potentially improving Wear OS. Curiously, one of the questions on the survey asks, "What is the last day...

Spotify says social discovery is important to its user base.What you need to knowSpotify's newest feature makes podcast sharing faster.You're now able to share podcasts with exact timestamps.The company will also let users share Canvas to Snapchat alongside another change that lets you preview how Canvas videos will be visualized.Spotify has been diving deep into podcasting over the past few months, and it is now blending that newfound interest with its pre-existing collaborative features. Rolling out today to iOS and Android phone users, Spotify will now let you share timestamped podcasts.Recall how you can share a YouTube video with the precise timestamp you want someone to watch? It's like that, but for Spotify. When listening to a podcast, you'll be able to use the "switch to share" feature to share a podcast at the precise moment you want them to tune in. In other words, you can share the juiciest parts of your true-crime podcast with your friends now with this featu...

These are the best shows NBC's Peacock streaming service right nowNBC's Peacock streaming service is the digital hub for new and old NBC series, Peacock originals, and a variety of content from other networks. And with both a free tier and two premium plan options, there's lots of content to choose from. With that in mind, we've rounded up the best Peacock shows available right now.PeacockFind your NBC favorites and moreFrom $5/month at PeacockAll the shows, movies, and sports you wantNBC's Peacock streaming service is the exclusive home for iconic NBC series like The Office, as well as series from a collection of other networks. You also find a rotating lineup of free and premium movies.Best Peacock showsOriginal series on PeacockCurrent series on PeacockWWE on PeacockComedy series on PeacockDrama series on PeacockReality series on PeacockPeacock OriginalsIn addition to featuring a variety of classic series and shows that are currently airing new...

The Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds will have a more compact design.What you need to knowAnother leak of the Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds shows off the charging case.The case features a more compact design and will reportedly feature wireless charging.The Sony WF-1000XM4 are expected to launch in June.The next-generation Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds have leaked once again, giving a better look at not only the earbuds but also the charging case. The images surfaced from The Walkman Blog which showcase the earbuds and the case at various angles.The design of the earbuds is unchanged from the previous leak, with a smaller, more compact fit than the previous Sony WF-1000XM3. This would bring it more in line with some of the best wireless earbuds like the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro while retaining Sony's signature design language.Not much is known about the specs, but we at least know that the upcoming Sony earbuds are expected to feature a 6-hour battery life, LDAC support, and active noise c...

There are plenty of Alexa-enabled devices out there today, and making your home smarter and more secure is easier than ever with Amazon Alexa smart locks. One of the most significant conveniences in a home can come from installing a smart lock so that you never have to fish a key out again, and you can manage guests easier. These are the best smart locks that support Amazon's Alexa voice assistant, although our favorite is the August Smart Lock Pro, which is stylish, easy to install, and works with most smart homes.Best Overall: August Smart Lock ProThe Smart Lock Pro is a stylish lock that works with most existing deadbolts, meaning you don't need to replace your keys to use it. You can lock and unlock the door with an Alexa command, or the door can automatically unlock as you approach it with your smartphone. It supports smart home standards like Z-Wave Plus and Apple's HomeKit and includes a Connect bridge that allows it to work over Wi-Fi. That included bridge is key to thi...

Walmart's Android TV listing goes up ahead of a proper release.What you need to knowWalmart's Android TV stick is getting ready to launch.A listing for the upcoming device has shown up on the retailer's site.This confirms many of the earlier leaked specs. Walmart's Android TV stick is available on the company's website and has been for almost a week at this point, but it's not truly on sale (courtesy of our friends over at 9to5Google.)The streaming stick was first spotted earlier this year via its FCC listing, revealing its design and some of its specifications. This new Walmart listing confirms pretty much everything, from the 4K UHD support to its Dolby Audio. It'll be dubbed the rather laborious "onn. Android TV UHD Streaming Device", and it'll set you back $29.88. The box will get you the UHD TV streaming device, remote control with included batteries, and AC adapter, and a quick start guide.Separately, Walmart's listing touts the following key specs:4K resolutio...

The Galaxy A12 and A02s are Samsung's latest A series phones to get Android 11.What you need to knowSamsung's entry-level Galaxy A02s and Galaxy A12 phones are now receiving the Android 11 update with One UI 3.1 Core.The Android 11 update for the Galaxy A12 also includes the latest May security patch.Both phones were launched with Android 10 out of the box.Samsung's Galaxy A02s and Galaxy A12 phones, which were launched earlier this year, have started to receive the Android 11 update. As reported by SamMobile, the Android 11 update arrives as A125FXXU1BUE3 for the Galaxy A12 and Galaxy A025FXXU2BUDC for the Galaxy A02s.The update for the Galaxy A12 brings Samsung's One UI 3.1 Core, which introduces a revamped UI design, improved Digital Wellbeing and parental controls, additional lock screen widgets, and more. All the usual Android 11 goodies such as one-time permissions, chat bubbles, privacy improvements, and more are included as well.What is more impressive, however,...

The best Android One phones get the latest Android updates on time and offer a clean interface. If you're looking for an Android One phone in 2021, your options are limited to Nokia's devices. The Nokia 8.3 is the best choice right now, but you can find other options at various price points. Here are some of our top choices to consider.Nokia 8.3 5G: Best OverallWith the Nokia 8.3, HMD Global has a device that goes up against the best cheap Android phones. The phone has a massive 6.81-inch Full HD+ display backed by a powerful Snapdragon 765G chipset with 5G connectivity, and the 4500mAh battery ensures you get at least two days of battery life.There's also a 3.5mm jack, and the 64MP camera at the back takes great photos in most lighting conditions. The Nokia 8.3 gets a lot right, and the fact that it runs clean software without any bloatware gives it an added edge. That said, Nokia hasn't been the best at software updates lately, and the Android 11 update for the Nokia 8.3 di...

Forty-three attorneys general do not think the proposed social media platform for kids will be safe.What you need to knowForty-three state attorneys generals do not want Instagram for Kids to happen.In a letter, they say Facebook does not have a good history of protecting children.Facebook is building a version of Instagram aimed at children under 13.Over 40 state attorneys general have signed a letter to Facebook's CEO Mark Zuckerberg urging him to "abandon plans to launch" Instagram for kids under the age of 13. In March, Buzzfeed News reported that the company was planning to build a version of the popular photo-sharing service that would cater to children "with the safest possible experience."The coalition of attorneys general says that the proposed platform will be "detrimental to children for myriad reasons and that Facebook has historically failed to protect the welfare of children on its platform."New York Attorney General Letitia James, the leader of the coalit...

They tick all the right boxes, but they still may not be a good fit.I don't know about you, but I've gotten to the point where I'm starting to rebel a little against so-called "smart" devices. I often find them more trouble than they're worth, whether it's due to inconsistent connections, poor battery life, or annoying assistant interactions; I'm kind of at the end of my rope! Granted, not all smart devices are a pain. I love a good smartphone or smart speaker just as much as the next person. But these recent frustrations that have surfaced for me are the emotional baggage that I carried with me when I set out to do this Fauna Audio Glasses review.My personal grumpiness aside, these frames were mostly a pleasant surprise. They did just what I expected from a device in this product category, and no more. And you know what? I'm fine with that! As far as smart glasses go, these were some of my favorites, save for a few caveats that might prevent you from actually picking up a pair. ...

The Sonos website has a limited quantity of Sonos Play:1 smart speakers on sale for $99.99 in refurbished condition. These are older Sonos speakers that have since been replaced by the Sonos One, but the latter speaker sells for $159 refurbished and for as much as $200 new. Despite the Play:1 being discontinued, it's still very similar to the newer speaker with the biggest difference being the Sonos One actually has voice assistants built in while the Play:1 has to rely on external devices for voice control.This is a great deal made all the better by the fact that you can sync two Play:1 speakers together for a stereo audio experience. Get two of them for the price of one of the newer speakers and get a much more robust sound. In addition to that, the Play:1 can also join the rest of your Sonos speakers to create a whole home multi-room surround sound speaker system. Play music throughout your home, let individuals play to their specific tastes, and do basically whatever you can th...

Google Maps and Search now show over 23,000 vaccination centers across India.What you need to knowGoogle has started providing authoritative information on COVID-19 vaccination centers, hospital beds, and medical oxygen availability on its platforms in India.Users in India can now view locations of over 23,000 vaccination centers in Google Search and Maps. Google is also testing a new feature using the Q&A function in Maps to enable users in the country to ask and share local information on hospital bed and medical oxygen availability. While the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down in most parts of the world, India is battling a devastating second wave with over 350,000 infections every day. To help India turn the tide, Google is rolling out a few updates to its most popular services — including Search, Maps, and YouTube.Google India's Covid Respone team wrote in a blog post: As India battles this devastating wave, we'll keep doing all we can to support the selfles...

This isn't the news anyone wanted to hear, but it isn't surprising.What you need to knowThe PS5 has been incredibly difficult to buy since its release in November 2020.Sony stated in a private briefing that it expects supply shortages to continue into 2022.These comments come amid rumors that manufacturers are bracing for a PS5 redesign.The alleged internal redesign will supposedly feature a 6nm AMD chip as opposed to a 7nm AMD processor. Sony's PS5 has been an elusive console since its debut in November 2020, and the company expects that to continue. According to a Bloomberg report, Chief Financial Officer Hiroki Totoki said that despite an attempt to increase supply, demand is not waning and a console shortage will likely continue for at least several more months. These remarks were made in a private briefing following Sony's financial call in April."I don't think demand is calming down this year and even if we secure a lot more devices and produce many more units of t...

Many factors go into buying a new pair of true wireless headphones, and it's easy to overlook the waterproof rating when shopping around. Whether you're breaking a sweat at the gym or happen to get caught in a rainstorm, your headphones' waterproofing will ensure they keep going, even if they happen to get a little wet. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro earned their spot as the best overall waterproof headphones, though you do have other compelling choices to consider. Here are the best waterproof headphones you can buy right now!Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy Buds ProThe Galaxy Buds Pro went back to the past as a reference point for designing its most rugged wireless earbuds yet. While similar in form factor to the Galaxy Buds and Buds+, these were made a little larger and with more rigid materials to deliver their IPX7 rating. That heightened water and sweat resistance level is great for runs and workouts, but not good enough to go swimming in. And saltwater is a no-go as well.All ...

Ready to talk your friends' ears off?It may sound hard to believe, but the popular audio-sharing social app Clubhouse is finally available on Android. Clubhouse first launched on iOS in April 2020 and quickly gained popularity among influencers before spreading to the general public. It also influenced a host of competitors, from Twitter Spaces to similar attempts by the likes of Facebook and Slack.This weekend we received confirmation that Clubhouse will is now available in beta on Android (U.S. only) via an invite system, but this is just a precursor to the app becoming more widely available soon. Whether you have one of the best Android phones or are rocking a good budget device, you'll soon have the opportunity to experience what all of your iPhone-wielding friends have been raving about. But will you?Are you excited for Clubhouse on Android?...

No matter how many Alexa speakers you've placed around your home, there's always space for another one (or two). If you want to add Echo speakers to more spaces, Woot is giving you the perfect opportunity to do just that with some of its best Amazon Echo deals returning for a limited time.Prices start at just $20 in the sale, though the deals expire tonight or when sold out. Most of the devices aren't offered new so will have some cosmetic imperfections, but each has been tested to ensure it works like new and will come backed with a 90-day warranty. A couple of devices are listed as brand new, in which case you'll get a full Amazon warranty.The most affordable Echo device in the sale is there 3rd-gen Echo Dot which is available for just $20 while supplies last. Just $5 more gets you the original Amazon Echo which, despite being over six years old, is still a great smart speaker.If you want something newer, the 2nd-gen Echo is only $40 in the sale and is offered brand new with ...

The May 2021 security update is arriving a lot sooner than expected for the OnePlus 9 series phones.What you need to knowOnePlus has released a new OxygenOS update for the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro phones.The OxygenOS 11.2.5.5 update includes the latest May 2021 Android security patch. It also contains camera improvements and a few other tweaks.OnePlus' latest flagship phones have started receiving a new software update, which brings the May 2021 Android security patch and a few other improvements. While the company is yet to officially confirm the rollout, a thread on OnePlus forums reveals the rollout is currently underway for the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro.According to the official changelog for the update, camera improvements included with the new OxygenOS 11.2.5.5 update bring improved white balance performance and HDR effect in certain shooting scenes. OnePlus has also made a few tweaks to enhance the network communication stability and Wi-Fi performance of its best Android phon...

Samsung's next big Unpacked event is rumored to be held on August 19.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy S20 FE successor could debut alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 at an Unpacked event in August.The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is expected to be Samsung's first foldable phone with an in-display selfie camera and S Pen support. It was previously rumored that the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 would debut in July. A leaked Samsung product roadmap that had surfaced online in March this year claimed Samsung would introduce the Galaxy S20 FE successor at an Unpacked event in August. A new report from South Korean publication Yonhap corroborates the previously leaked information and claims the next Samsung foldables will also be unveiled in August.Per the report, Samsung is in talks with South Korean carriers over the launch of three new phones in late August: Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy Z Fold 3, and Galaxy Z Flip 3. Industry insiders claim the early launch is "intende...

Android 11 brings much-needed privacy and security features alongside exciting UI changes.Android 11 continues to push Google's vision of Android forward. With Android 11, Google is making a few tweaks to refine the platform instead of making wholesale changes. Privacy is a big focus with Android 11, with Google introducing one-time permissions and granular control over what sort of data you share.There are new features to get excited about as well — the power button menu picked up a massive overhaul, the Conversations view does a great job highlighting your messages, and there are little tweaks throughout the interface that give it an added polish.Android 11 is powering the best Android phones of 2021, and manufacturers are doing a better job rolling out the update to their 2020 phones. So here's everything you need to know about all the new features in Android 11 and when your phone will receive the update.Jump to:Release dateCustom skinsOverviewMessaging featur...

There's only a smattering of device news this week, but a whole lot to discuss regarding Google services and their strategies. Daniel, Ara, and Jerry also offer their take on Apple vs. Epic and what it could mean for other platforms.Listen nowSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: Audio Subscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:Google accidentally announces the Pixel Buds A-Series early | Android CentralSamsung 'accidentally' confirms the mid-range Galaxy A82 5G is on its way | Android CentralSamsung's upcoming Galaxy Tab S7 Plus Lite leaks with new book cover case | Android CentralHere's your 'first look' at Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 | Android CentralGoogle will allow some employees to permanently work from home | Android CentralGoogle's new policy for Android app listings will give you more information about how your data is used | Android CentralYouTube expands its TikTok rival Shorts to all creators in the U.S. | A...

The ability to search browser tabs in Google Chrome could be a major time saver. Tabs are great for multi-tasking, but they're easy to lose track of. You can try using tab groups to keep things in order, but you can still lose track. In Chrome version 87, the search tabs button rolled out for chromebooks first, and Windows and macOS machines later. It gives you the ability to do exactly that. There's no need to turn the feature on or opt-in. You should see a new button to the right of your tabs that looks like an arrow pointing down.How to search your Chrome tabsClick on that arrow down, and you get a quick vertical list of all tabs that are open in any number of windows. You can scroll up and down to see all the tabs, or you can search by searching for a tab in the search box at the top. Here's how to do it.Click the down arrow to the right of your tabs.Type the name of a tab in the search box.Click the tab you want to see. Chrome will switch you to the tab and window t...

Almost any phone can run popular free-to-play titles like Angry Birds or Subway Surfers, but for the more graphically demanding, you'll need one of the best Android phones for games. Some of the best Android games are PC or console ports that — even in their downgraded state — run significantly better with more powerful CPUs, more RAM, and faster display Hz. These games also drain batteries faster and take up enough storage that you may need a microSD card slot to fit them all. Add in-game streaming services like Google Stadia and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (Microsoft Project xCloud), and you have every reason to make sure your next phone is capable of handling it all in stride. We think the Galaxy S21 Ultra is the best overall gaming phone, but if that doesn't strike your fancy or is out of your price range, there are plenty of other options worth considering. Here are some of the best Android phones for gamers.Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy S21 UltraSamsung's annual offering...

Stylish trackerFitbit Luxe$150 at FitbitProsActivity/sleep trackingHeart-rate monitoringFemale health-trackingSpO2 monitoringActive Zone MinutesConsLacks built-in GPSNo NFC paymentsShorter battery life than other FitbitsSleek, compact, and efficient. Those are just a few words to describe the Fitbit Luxe. It's a beautiful accessory that doubles as a tracker. It lacks GPS and NFC payments, but you get activity/sleep tracking, heart-rate monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, and a stress management score.Fancy smartwatchGarmin Lily$180 at AmazonProsActivity/sleep trackingHeart-rate monitoringFemale health-trackingSpO2 monitoringBody BatteryConsNo built-in GPSNo NFC paymentsLackluster grayscale displayThe Garmin Lily is perfect for those who want a stylish accessory that can track their health and fitness metrics. It comes in two attractive models and offers five days of battery life. It's missing GPS and NFC payments, but this we...

After blowing up on the iPhone, Clubhouse is now on Android.What you need to knowClubhouse is now available in beta on Android.It's only available in the U.S. at the moment, with a UK release in the coming days.The invite-only system will remain for the near future. After an earlier private beta teased last week, Clubhouse today announced that it would be making its debut on Android after an earlier announcement this year. The app had taken off in the heyday of the pandemic and spawned many imitators, but had neglected the Android market for a while. There are a few caveats. This is still a beta, it's still invite-only, and you'll need to be in the U.S. to use it (though an expansion to other English-speaking markets has been promised.)Writing over on the Clubhouse blog, the team said: Our plan over the next few weeks is to collect feedback from the community, fix any issues we see and work to add a few final features like payments and club creation before rolling it ...

The 275% spike in sales between now and last year proves that even with lockdown done for most, Chromebooks are here to stay.A year ago on Mother's Day — go call your mother, by the way — most of us had been in lockdown for six weeks and were bracing for another 4-8 weeks. Schools were trying to finish out the academic year however they could, and finding a good Chromebook was starting to get difficult as millions scrambled for cheap communication and consumption devices amid a component shortage caused by manufacturing shutdowns during China's lockdown.Here we are a year later, and thankfully a lot has changed. While lockdowns are still impacting India — and please, donate to relief efforts if you can — vaccinations are continuing to roll out across Europe and North America, and many workers who have been working from home for the last year are getting the choice to start going back to the office. Schools are mostly back in-person and have been since October, so naysayer...

One of the easiest ways to watch live television without committing to a cable package is Sling TV. The online streaming service includes more than 50 live channels, which vary depending on which package you choose, which spans live sports, breaking news, and all things entertainment. And whether you subscribe to the Sling Orange or Sling Blue plan, one of the easiest ways to access your favorite content is via an Amazon Fire TV Stick. Here's everything you need to know about accessing Sling TV on Fire Stick.Products used in this guide:Live sports and entertainment: Sling TV $35 at SlingStreaming made easy: Fire TV Stick, 3rd Gen $40 at AmazonHow to get Sling TV on Fire StickNavigate to the Home screen of your Amazon Fire Stick. Select the Search icon on the left side of the menu. Type Sling TV and click the first option that appears.Choose the Sling TV app and select Get.Wait for the Sling TV app to Install.Once the Sling TV app has been downloaded, you should...

While the Oculus Quest 2 ships with the amazing Oculus Touch controllers — which the headset can fully motion-track to give you a 1:1 experience in VR — sometimes what your hands are actually holding might not quite look like what you're holding in VR. That's why these great Oculus Quest 2 controller accessories are the perfect fit for some of the best Oculus Quest 2 games, as they'll give you an even more immersive experience and may even help you play some games better.The universal solutionVR Cover Controller GripsStaff PickThere are many different controller grip designs available for the Oculus Quest 2, but my personal favorite is the VR cover controller grips. They're a tad bit more expensive than some other brands, but the comfort level, range of adjustability, and ease of removal make them an ideal solution for any situation. Despite the name, controller grips don't just enhance your grip on the controller; they make it easier to hold, throw objects, and get a...

The best shows streaming on HBO Max todayHBO Max launched in 2020 as the digital hub for all your favorite HBO series and WarnerMedia content, from classics like Six Feet Under and The Wire to the latest films being released by Warner Bros. Pictures. With so much media already available on the platform, and plans for more shows to premiere in the future, it can be tough to decide what you should watch next. As such, we've rounded up a list of the best shows on HBO Max right now.Best shows on HBO MaxHBO Max originalsPopular on HBO MaxDrama on HBO MaxComedy on HBO MaxDocuseries on HBO MaxHBO to the MaxHBO shows and moreHBO Max$15 at HBO MaxFind both new series and a catalog of classics on HBO MaxHBO Max provides streamers with access to film and television content from HBO, WarnerMedia, and DC. Subscribe now to catch up on your favorite HBO and Max originalsHBO Max original seriesHBO Max launched in 2020 with a handful of original series exclusive t...

With a defeat for either side likely to see the loser miss out on qualification for next year's Champions League, the stakes couldn't be higher for both teams going into this massive Serie A clash in Turin.Follow our guide below on how to get a Juventus vs AC Milan live stream and watch Italian football online no matter where you are in the world.Both teams come into the game level on 69 points with second-placed Atalanta. Both Napoli on 67 and Lazio, who have a game in hand, on 64 are breathing down their necks, meaning the risk of missing out on a crucial top-four spot for both Juve and Milan is palpable.While Juve have been inconsistent throughout the campaign, the now desperate situation marks a huge reversal for the away side, with Milan having led the title race for large parts of the season, only to suffer a massive loss of form in the closing weeks.As well as having a huge bearing on both club's finishing place, the match offers further intrigue with it offering up a ...

The 2021 Formula 1 season continues and this weekend teams and drivers are in Catalonia, Spain for this year's Spanish Grand Prix and we have all the details on how you can watch the race on TV or online.Constructed as part of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics development program, the Circuit De Barcelona-Catalunya held its first car race during the 1991 Spanish Touring Car Championship but two weeks later Formula 1 held its first race on the track. The track itself has 16 turns, a circuit length of 2.9 miles and drivers will complete 66 laps before finishing the 191-mile race. The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is a favorite among Formula 1 drivers as the track has a good mix of high and low-speed corners and it is often used for winter testing.During the qualifiers earlier in the weekend, Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton was able to triumph over Red Bull's Max Verstappen by just 0.036s and, as a result, he will start on pole. In fact, Hamilton has become the first driver in the history of Fo...

Being the one of the best VPN services doesn't mean you can't also be among the cheapest VPN services. There are a lot of VPN providers out there offering plans at a variety of different price points, and a few even have free VPN plans. Normally, when it comes to services and subscriptions the best ones are on the more expensive side, but with VPNs that isn't the case.Best Cheap VPN ServicesSurfshark: $2.49 per month (81% off)IPVanish: $2.62 per month (65% off)NordVPN: $3.71 per month (68% off)HotSpot Shield: $2.99 per month (77% off)CyberGhost: $2.25 per month (83% off)PIA VPN: $2.69 per month (77% off)ExpressVPN: $6.67 per month (49% off) More Deals: Tunnelbear, Cyberghost & moreYou don't have to go broke each month or pay a huge upfront cost to get a great VPN, some of the best VPNs are actually pretty cheap, seriously.1. Surfshark VPN: The best cheap VPN out thereFrom $2.49/mo at SurfsharkWith plans starting out at about 8 cents per day, it's real...

Get ready for one of the biggest fights of the year when Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez will finally take on Billy Joe Saunders in an attempt to become the undisputed super middleweight champion of the world and we have all the details on how you can watch Canelo vs Saunders online.Canelo has a lot to lose in tonight's fight as he's laying down his WBC, WBA, and Ring Magazine super middleweight belts on the line to take on Saunders who is currently the WBO super middleweight champion in a 12 round match.While Canelo hasn't lost a fight since 2013 when he was defeated by Floyd Mayweather Jr. by majority decision, Saunders has yet to lose a single fight throughout the entirety of his 12-year career. During his last fight in December, Canelo defeated Callum Smith by unanimous decision earning him the WBC, WBA, and Ring Magazine titles. He later defended his titles against Avni Yildirim back in February. Saunders on the other hand also won his last fight against Martin Murray by unanimous dec...

Now in its 47th season on air, Saturday Night Live is certainly no stranger to controversy. The iconic NBC series has devoted itself year after year to bringing late-night laughs and great music to the masses that might not always hit the mark. From failed sketches to lipsynced performances and a side of backstage drama, the series is nearly as entertaining during its mistakes as it is when everything goes as intended. With Elon Musk as this weekend's host, and Miley Cyrus as the night's musical guest, SNL looks set to have one of its biggest shows in years.The highly praised and highly controversial Elon Musk, otherwise known as the founder of SpaceX and CEO of Tesla, might not be the typical pick for host of NBC's late-night sketch show. Some cast members have even expressed annoyance since Musk was announced for the gig. The show hasn't seen a more polarized figure lead an episode since then-presidential candidate Donald Trump appeared to host in late 2015.PeacockJoin ...

What I love about Android more than anything else is that you can use wallpapers, Android launchers, icon packs, and widgets to turn your phone into a truly unique and custom experience. Widgets are basically miniature applications that run on your home screen, displaying information so that you don't have to dip into the weather app just to see the temperature or see the next calendar appointment. Widgets can also be used to control your music, toggle quick settings, or even interact with your smart home without leaving your home screen. Here's how to add new widgets or remove the widgets that came pre-installed on your Android phone.How to add a new widget to your home screenWidgets are handled slightly differently between launchers — the app that actually runs your home screen — but most launchers follow the same basic process for adding widgets. The layout might be slightly different depending on your phone's manufacturer, whether you're using a third-party launcher, and ...