Latest from Android Central

Get rewards for using the new Google Pay app.Update, Apr 22 (2:45 pm ET): Spring Challenge has been extendedWhat you need to knowGoogle Pay is offering $30 cashback rewards for using the new app.Users will gather stamps by performing various tasks within the new Google Pay app.The challenge is available to Google Pay users in the United States.When the new Google Pay launched late last year, Google was really hyping up its social features and one-stop-shop design for all your payment needs. Now that the app's old version has been stripped of most features, Google is introducing ways to make the new app more appealing, and that brings us to the new Spring Challenge.Beginning April 12, the Google Pay Spring Challenge will offer cashback rewards for completing various actions within the new app. When performing tasks like completing transactions, sending payments, and even answering fun quizzes, users will collect cute animal stamps within the app. Once five stamps are col...

Google Fi's new plan may be for you if you can forego some features.What you need to knowGoogle Fi has introduced a new Simply Unlimited data plan.Subscribers on the new plan will still experience "unlimited" data without a few notable features.The plan is available now for new and existing Google Fi subscribers.Google Fi is one of the best MVNO carriers in the U.S., particularly when it comes to traveling outside of the U.S. That's thanks to its lower cost and dependence on the T-Mobile 5G network and its ability to switch between cellular and WiFi on the fly. To celebrate the 6th anniversary of Google Fi, the carrier is introducing a new "unlimited" plan that forgoes some of its popular perks.Google Fi's new Simply Unlimited plan is available for users that want the perks of unlimited data but without some of the extras. That means no tethering or international roaming. Until now, Google Fi has offered two plans for customers, the Flexible plan for WiFi users that charg...

Best answer: PlayStation Plus is a premium subscription service that grants access to online multiplayer, 100GB of cloud storage, free games, and offers exclusive discounts. PlayStation Now is similar to Netflix in that it delivers access to over 800 games that can be streamed or downloaded on-demand.What Does PlayStation Plus offer?PlayStation Plus is essentially the equivalent of Xbox Live Gold. It offers access to online multiplayer in all games that have it, though free-to-play games don't require PlayStation Plus for their multiplayer portions. PlayStation Plus also dishes out a few free games each month to subscribers along with exclusive discounts on games, 100GB of cloud storage, Game Help, Share Play, and the PlayStation Plus Collection.This is the best way to enhance your PlayStation experience on PS4 and PS5. Should you decide to cancel your subscription for whatever reason, you lose access to the above benefits.What does PlayStation Now offer?PlayStation Now is ...

Don't throw away your old Galaxy phone just yet.What you need to knowSamsung has launched the beta of its Galaxy Upcycling at Home program.The program will be available via the Samsung SmartThings app.Users will be able to turn their old Galaxy smartphones into IoT devices.Earth Day is here, and to celebrate its appreciation of our planet, Samsung has announced the beta of its Galaxy Upcycling at Home program in the U.S., UK, and Korea. First announced back at CES 2021, Galaxy Upcycling at Home allows anyone with an older Galaxy smartphone to repurpose their device using the SmartThings app instead of just tossing it. According to Jaeyeon Jung, VP & Head of the SmartThings team, this program can open up a world of possibilities for transforming one's home into a smart home: The program transforms Galaxy devices into SmartThings devices and demonstrates the power of our intelligent IoT platform to broaden the possibilities of what users can do with their old phones. ...

It turns out those fears of the dark weren't unfounded.Imagine waking up one day only to find out you're dead. You're not exactly sure how it happened, where it happened, if someone killed you, or you just died naturally. Either way, you're trapped in a space somewhere between Earth and some other ethereal realm. It looks a lot like the last place you recall visiting, Barclay Mansion, but everyone here is... gone? Vanished? A ghost? Maybe they're just a memory. A figment of your imagination.Regardless of what they are, you appear to be trapped here, wandering the halls in search of some answers — any clue to what's going on and why. Memories echo like footsteps in the halls, people you've met before take on a haunting new look, and everything seems to be connected to one single event that happened in the last few days of your mortal life. Will you survive long enough to capture the truth about your life, or will you be cast into Oblivion for all eternity? That is the quest in W...

Trying to find the best cheap headphones is already a tough task with the number of options out there, and it gets more difficult when trying to find the best earbuds under $20. A headset — earphones or earbuds (or even a single earbud) with a microphone and controls — is a different beast than a set of earbuds or headphones without a mic. For starters, not every set will work with Android when you need to answer calls and adjust the volume. Plus, when products are cheap, there are thousands of choices to wade through. So we chose the best ones.Foam fitKLIM Fusion EarbudsStaff PickThey handle calls just fine, fit better than average, and aren't terrible to wear. Best of all, they sound awesome. The Fusion Earbuds also include memory foam ear-tips so that you'll get the best fit possible, without having to worry about ear fatigue. Plus, KLIM offers a 5-year warranty if anything goes awry with your amazing earbuds.$20 at AmazonFor the gymLETSCOM U8I Bluetooth Earbu...

Give your old phone or tablet a new lease on life by repurposing it.We're using our phones longer than ever before; hardware is at a point where even budget phones like the Pixel 4a can easily last three years or more. But when you do upgrade to a new device, what do you do with your old phone? Sure, you can always sell them and make some money, but there's also the option to repurpose your old gadgets and make them useful again. This is particularly useful for cheap Android phones that are running outdated versions of Android.There are plenty of things you can do with old Android phones, and even though they may be outdated as phones, they still have powerful chipsets, decent cameras, and GPS connectivity that you can leverage to turn them into useful gadgets around the house. Here's just a few ways to get the most out of your old Android phone or tablet.Use your old phone as a universal remoteOne of the easiest things you can do with an old phone or tablet is to turn it i...

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

The changes will help make web linking a lot more seamless.What you need to knowOne of the key highlights of the latest Android 12 Developer Preview is improved web linking.Verified links will now open directly in the associated app.You'll no longer see the "open with" dialog for verified links. Yesterday, Google released the final Android 12 developer preview, bringing a ton of new user-facing changes. One of the most significant changes is the improved web linking, which gets rid of the "open with" dialog for verified links.Instead of asking you to choose an app to open a verified link with, each app will now have a list of verified links that they will be able to open automatically. You'll be able to view the list of verified links that an app can open by heading over to its app info page. In case you don't want an app to open verified links automatically, you can disable the behavior with the help of the new "open supported links" toggle in the "Open by default" sec...

The best Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra cases protect Samsung's supersized flagship, and with that big beautiful 6.9-inch screen comes a larger and heavier phone than even last year's devices. While I can understand not wanting to bulk up your S20 Ultra, a case is not optional on a phone this big; you need a protective case to add grip to that big glass back and add some cushions or shock-absorbing bumpers to the corners. From clear and ultra thin cases to big and functional, these are the best Galaxy S20 Ultra cases to buy your new flagship.Clear but sturdyRingke Fusion XStaff PickFrom $12 at Amazon $13 at WalmartWant to show off your S20 Ultra's glass-backed beauty while still protecting it from scratches, slips, and the oh-so-dreaded shatter? This case gives you robust bumper and corner protection and a crystal clear back.Germ-free gripSpeck Presidio Grip Case$15 at Amazon $18 at Best Buy $14 at TargetSpeck's iconic grip pattern is traditionally a place for grime t...

There are several things that you can do with a device that you're no longer using. Whether you donate, sell, or recycle your phone, just about anything is better than throwing a smartphone and its hazardous materials in the trash. In this article, you'll find some of our top suggestions for repurposing your old Android phone, such as how to recycle or donate it, followed by steps and guidelines on how to carry out those suggestions.Why can't I just throw my phone away?We create tens of millions of tons of e-waste — waste from electronic devices — every year, and just dumping it in the trash is the worst possible thing you could do with it. There are two types of materials in smartphones and other e-waste that require special disposal processes:Precious materials like rare metals are hard to mine, refine, and use in electronics. We must reclaim as many of these materials from a device at the end of its lifetime as possible so that manufacturers can minimize the new mining ...

Sony already creates some of the best single-player experiences on consoles.What you need to knowPlayStation has partnered with Firewalk Studios to develop a AAA multiplayer game.The team at Firewalk is helmed by former Destiny developers, along with devs that worked on BioShock Infinite, Mass Effect, Apex Legends, and Guitar Hero II.Firewalk did not announce a release date or any details for the project, but this will be the studio's debut title.PlayStation has announced that it's partnered with Firewalk Studios to develop a AAA multiplayer game on PS5. In a blog post on PlayStation's website, Firewalk Studio Head Tony Hsu said that it will be an original IP, not based in a previous franchise.Firewalk's team is comprised of veteran developers that have worked on some of the most popular series in gaming. Ryan Ellis, Game Director in the mysterious multiplayer project, served as Creative Director on Destiny. Executive Producer Elena Siegman was a producer on Destiny, BioS...

Hulu has joined the wave of streaming services trying to make viewing more collaborative with the Hulu Watch Party. Like GroupWatch on Disney Plus, the Hulu Watch Party allows subscribers to watch movies and shows with fellow subscribers in different locations. Here's what you need to know to host or join a Hulu Watch Party.Products used in this guideStream with friends: Hulu from $6 at HuluHow to use the Hulu Watch Party featureAccording to the Hulu website, you must be at least 18 years old to use the Hulu Watch Party feature. If you meet that requirement, here's what you need to do next.Go to Hulu.com on a supported web browser. Navigate to the Details page of the show or movie you'd like to watch. Select the Hulu Watch Party icon.Click Start the Party. To invite others to the Hulu Watch Party, select the chain icon. Copy the link and send it to other participants so they can join. If you plan to host a Hulu Watch Party for a specific episode of a TV seri...

As wonderful as messaging apps can be, they can also get out of hand quickly. With all of the group threads, friends, family, and coworkers, not to mention channels you may follow, your Telegram inbox might be looking a tad overwhelming right now. The good news is that there are some easy ways to keep it tidy and organized, and my favorite involves an old-school email trick — folders! That's right! I'll show you how easy it is to create folders in Telegram to help categorize and organize your inbox a little better.How to create chat folders in TelegramOpen the Telegram app on your phone.Tap on the settings menu (three lines) in the top left corner.Tap on Settings.Tap on Folders.Tap on Create New Folder.Give your folder a name.Tap on Add Chats.Press down firmly to add chats/contacts to this new folder.If you want to exclude anyone, you can tap on Remove Chats and repeat the process.Once everyone you want is in that folder, tap Save.Top in certain chats to the top ...

Technology has come a long way since flip phones. These days, devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 and the Motorola Razr truly put the years past in perspective. They can be folded to keep them pocket-sized yet when unfolded, they allow for more screen real estate than most other smartphones on the market. It's been quite a while since the last major innovation in mobile devices brought us full touchscreen devices; now, folding phones are making the next big leap with displays that seem like they belong only in the future.Best Folding Phone Deals Available NowUnlocked Deals: starting at $400Carrier deals: Trade-ins, BOGO & more Which to buy?Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 | Up to $1,000 off at VerizonYou can save up to $800 on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 when you switch to Verizon, bring over your current number, and trade-in an eligible device. You must add a line on an eligible Unlimited plan to score this deal, too, otherwise you'll score up to $440 when upgradin...

Looks like a new benefit for PS Plus members.Update, April 22 (9:50am ET): Sony has confirmed that PlayStation Plus Video Pass is a test service in Poland that offers films from Sony Pictures.What you need to knowA logo for something called "PlayStation Plus Video Pass" popped up on Sony's official Polish website.The description read that it's a trial service available from April 21, 2021 through April 21, 2022.The description also notes that it's available to PS Plus members in Poland, but it's unclear if there is a global rollout of some kind.VGC discovered a logo for something called the PlayStation Plus Video Pass was published on Sony's official Polish website. Though it has since been removed, the premature reveal indicates that some type of video service could be making its way into the subscription for members.Before being removed, a description read: "A new benefit available for a limited time on PlayStation Plus… PS Plus Video Pass is a trial service active ...

More than just a trackerSamsung SmartTag+Available in the coming weeks for $40ProsCan be found using Samsung SmartThings Find and ARBuilt-in loop for attaching to itemsUtilizes UltraWide Band (UWB) for accurate trackingCan control smart home devices with itConsSmartThings Find only works on Galaxy devicesUltraWide Band only works with the Galaxy S1 and the Z Fold 2 More expensiveOnly IP53 resistantSamsung's Galaxy SmartTag+ has a lot of smarts built-in, including smart home controls. By taking advantage of the broad SmartThings Find network, you can find your lost items quickly. However, UWB is currently limited to the newest Galaxy series of phones.The other side of the coinApple AirTagPre-order April 23 from $29 at AppleProsCompact designLower cost of entryIP67 weather-resistanceApple's U1 chip and UWB for precise locationConsUWB only works with iPhone 11/11 Pro/12/12 Pro seriesApp compatibility is limited to iOSMust purchase ...

Technology and sustainability were mutually exclusive terms for quite a while, but these days, we're getting better about learning how to get the accessories we need for the best Android phones without having to completely sacrifice our devotion to greener living. These cases, chargers, and accessories are sustainably made, compostable, and/or made with renewable materials. Here are the most environmentally-friendly phone accessories you can buy for your smartphone this Earth Day.Think inside the boxOtterBox Symmetry Case for Galaxy S21OtterBox starting adding recycled materials to its cases in 2020, and while most series are 30-50% recycled, the Symmetry is a whopping 60% recycled plastics, meaning that you don't have to sacrifice quality or protection just to get an eco-friendly product. OtterBox cases are available for most Samsung, Pixel, and OnePlus phones.From $36 at AmazonFrom $39 at Best BuySustainable gripPopSockets PopGrip EarthPopSockets are fun plastic ...

Planning to get outdoors a lot more as the weather warms up? If you're going real deep into the outdoors, maybe alone into the forest, then you're going to need some provisions. Start with the Lifestraw Go two-stage water filter bottle. It's on sale for $29.99 at Amazon. You can also find this deal at Best Buy, which is actually where the price originated as part of Best Buy's deals of the day. The sale ends at the end of the day so grab one while you can. This bottle normally sells for $40 and doesn't go on sale very often. While some colors like regular Blue are also temporarily going for a price around $30, some like Big Adventure are actually going for as much as $45.We've always liked the regular LifeStraw just as a tool you can use to get clean water anywhere. Well, now they've simply attached a 22-ounce bottle to the straw. So now not only can you get clean water anywhere, you can carry that water with you and drink even if you're on the move. And let's be honest, those pict...

The keyboard also offers easy pairing with Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets.What you need to knowSamsung has launched a new wireless keyboard with a dedicated DeX button.The new Smart Keyboard Trio 500 lets you pair multiple devices and switch between them with a single click. There's no word on price or availability yet. Samsung's Galaxy Tab S7 and Tab S7 Plus are currently the only Android alternatives to Apple's new 2021 iPad Pro models. As spotted by tipster Max J., Samsung has rolled out a new wireless keyboard for its best Android tablets with a dedicated DeX button.The dedicated button will allow users to access DeX via the keyboard when it is paired with a compatible Samsung tablet. As noted by Samsung on its website, the feature is limited to the Galaxy Tab S4, Galaxy Tab S5e, Galaxy Tab S6, Galaxy Tab S7, Galaxy Tab S7 Plus, and Galaxy Tab Active Pro models.Besides the DeX button, the Smart Keyboard Trio 500 also lets users connect up to three devices at on...

A brand new way to play.What you need to knowDICE has announced a brand new, standalone Battlefield game is coming to mobile devices in 2022.The company also detailed information regarding the future of the Battlefield series on consoles and PC. More information on both projects is expected to come later this year. Battlefield is one of the biggest and most popular shooters available, and soon the world of Battlefield will be expanding. Today, DICE detailed the future of Battlefield, including a new mobile game and information on the next installment for consoles and PC.In a recent announcement, DICE announced that in partnership with Industrial Toys, a brand new Battlefield experience will be coming to smartphones and tablets in 2022. According to the post, this will be a fully standalone game, and a completely different one from the current games that exist.DICE notes that this is specifically being designed for mobile platforms, and the goal is to create a fully-fled...

You can now store PS5 games on an external drive, so if you're running out of storage on your console, you can move games to an external HDD or SSD. If you want to play those games again, you'll need to transfer them back to your PS5. Having an external drive means you don't have to download games all over again, so let's take a look at the best external drives and SSDs for PS5 game backups.The best external SSDSamsung T7 Portable SSDStaff PickSamsung's T7 is one of the fastest external SSDs you'll find today. The T7 goes up to 1,000MB/s for write speeds and 1,050MB/s for read speeds, ensuring your game data is transferred over in a matter of minutes. The drive has a shock-resistant design and built-in safeguards to make sure it doesn't overheat. The T7 is available in 500GB, 1TB, or 2TB options, and you can connect it to your PS5 via the bundled USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to USB-A cables.From $80 at AmazonFrom $100 at Best BuyFrom $80 at NeweggFrom $80 at B&H Photo...

If you have explored the Telegram messaging app much, you may be aware that you can join public groups and channels that operate in much the same way as a more traditional social network like Twitter or Reddit. And like Twitter, Reddit, and YouTube, you can share posts from these public groups and channels on other platforms like your own blog or website in the form of embedded widgets. We'll show you how to create and share Telegram widgets with others so that they can experience the great content available on this communications platform.How to create and share Telegram widgets from the mobile appOpen the Telegram app on your mobile device.Tap on a chat thread for one of the public groups or channels you follow.Find the message you wish to share, and tap on the forward/share icon (looks like an arrow).At the bottom of your list of frequent contacts, tap Copy Link.Open Chrome or your web browser of choice, and paste the link from your clipboard.Tap on the < > icon ...

The Honeywell Home T9 smart thermostat with a smart room sensor is a great device that has not been going on sale recently. The last time it came close to today's drop was a year ago. Right now you can get the smart thermostat for just $149.99 at Best Buy as part of the deals of the day. The T9 normally sells for around $200, and this deal won't last forever. Grab it while you can.When you go with the T9, you'll also want to download the free app available on iOS or Android. It gives you a lot of control over your new device. You can easily adjust the thermostat from your phone or another mobile device and do it from anywhere. If you head to work and remember that you forgot to adjust it before you left, just whip out your smartphone. Or set a schedule so you never have to worry about it. You can set a schedule for up to seven days, and it will automatically adjust the temperature at different times based on your needs.The T9 is also smart enough to learn from your behaviors. It ...

You've probably already equipped your home with a bunch of Alexa devices by now, but one place you might not have known Alexa can help you is in your car. The Amazon Echo Auto takes the smart voice assistant on the road with you and, for a limited time, you can pick up the in-car smart device at a 50% discount.At just $24.99, this is one of the lowest prices we've ever seen the Echo Auto hit, only really being beaten by Prime Day sales, making this the perfect time to score one of the best Echo deals around right now.To use the Echo Auto you have to connect it with your phone first and then you'll be able to use it to communicate with Alexa hands-free and hear responses via your car's speakers. It works over Bluetooth or auxiliary input for connecting to your car's speakers depending on your vehicle.Echo Auto has eight integrated microphones designed for in-vehicle acoustics so that the device is able to hear you speak even with the radio playing, the AC running, and the window...

Evolve to match every single challenge this fantastical world throws your way.Biomutant takes open world action and throws in tons of unique mechanics. After years of silence, we finally have a release date in site Here's everything we know about Biomutant so far.Jump to:What is Biomutant?Check out the gameplay and featuresWill it have multiplayer?Is it an open world game?Has it been canceled?Check out the collector's editionsWhen is the release date?Genre-bustingBiomutant$60 at Amazon$60 at Best Buy$60 at WalmartAdapt, improvise and overcomeBiomutant is an action-RPG that gives players the ability to mutant and evolve with biomechanical upgrades, taking on every challenge as they attempt to save the Tree of Life from being corrupted.What is Biomutant?Biomutant is a third-person "open-world, post-apocalyptic Kung-Fu fable RPG" in which you play a small, furry creature (whose appearance the player can customize) who is attempting to save the...

Paying podcasting forwardApple announced several new products and services at its Spring Loaded event this week, including an updated Apple TV 4K, new colorful iMacs, and a new iPad Pro powered by Apple's desktop-grade M1 SOC. Aside from all of that pretty hardware, though, one of the most interesting announcements (at least, in my opinion) and one of the most widely-anticipated (save for AirTags), was Apple's new Podcast Subscriptions service. While a paid podcasting platform may have been expected, the form in which it was unveiled might not have been. So what exactly is Apple Podcast Subscriptions, and how does it stack up vs. premium options from competitors?What is Apple Podcast SubscriptionsEver since Apple helped popularize the podcasting genre (and its iPod music players even lent part of their name to the concept), iTunes, and later Apple Podcasts, has served as the most popular place to access this plethora of content. Even better, podcasts have largely been free to...

The best cell phone plan in 2021 is T-Mobile Magenta, thanks to its 5G-focused design with a massive 100GB of premium data and full 5G access included for everyone with a compatible phone. This is a huge bonus, especially as most of the best Android phones ship with 5G support, and T-Mobile's network is comfortably in the lead for 5G coverage. If you're looking to save some money over the big postpaid carriers, there are more options than ever in prepaid from carriers like Visible and US Mobile whether you need one line or need service for the whole family.What are the best cell phone plans?Cell phone plans aren't just about getting as many minutes and texts as possible anymore. People are using their phones for more than ever before and have come to rely on their phone plan as an essential part of their daily lives. Getting the right plan comes down to getting enough data for your needs, using a network with coverage where you need it, and not wasting money on features you don't w...

Chatting with the AC forums.The final Android 12 Developer Preview was released yesterday, with features like new app launch animations, better camera support for third-party apps, and improved haptics.So far in the developer preview cycle we've already seen or heard of forthcoming features like one-handed mode, improved notifications, and more transparent privacy controls.If you have a Pixel 3 or newer Pixel device, you can flash this early look at Android 12.Have you done so?Do you plan on doing so?Which phone are you going to try it out on?We want to hear from you — Have you've already downloaded the Android 12 developer preview? What have you liked (or disliked) so far? Let us know!Join the conversation in the forums!...

Bringing the British Invasion to true wireless earbuds.Back in 1962, Jim Marshall opened a small shop in London, where he sold drum kits and accessories for a short while before eventually pivoting to what the Marshall brand is best known for today: guitar amps. Few names are as instantly recognizable to a rock guitarist, but not everyone knows that Marshall Amplification actually makes a lot of other audio products, ranging from Bluetooth speakers to noise-canceling over-ear headphones and, for the first time, true wireless earbuds.The Mode II true wireless earbuds are the company's first venture into an increasingly crowded space, and while they bear every bit of the classic Marshall look and feel that the guitarist in me yearns for, they need to do more than just look the part to justify a price tag that's right in line with some of the best wireless earbuds on the market.Marshall Mode II review:Price and availabilityWhat you'll like What's not so greatThe competitio...

Aside from a slightly more powerful chipset, the "new" LTE variant doesn't bring any other changes.What you need to knowSamsung could soon launch a Snapdragon 865-powered LTE variant of the Galaxy S20 FE.Until now, all LTE variants of the phone were powered by Samsung's in-house developed Exynos 990 chipset. The new variant will be available in Sweden first.Samsung is reportedly planning to introduce a new LTE variant of its popular Galaxy S20 FE, powered by the same Snapdragon 865 chipset as the 5G variant. As spotted by German tech publication WinFuture, the upcoming Galaxy S20 FE variant has been listed on Samsung's Swedish website with the model number SM-G780G.The Snapdragon 865-powered LTE variant is currently listed only with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, but the Samsung website confirms it will be offered with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage as well. Unfortunately, it isn't clear if Samsung plans to introduce the new LTE variant in all markets or if it will b...

Notifications are a big part of the Android experience, and Android 12 brings another big change.I'll bet the "thing" on your phone you look at the most is the notification shade. No matter if you have one of the best budget Android phones or something more pricey, you want to know what's going on, when it's happening, and most importantly, who is chatting with you or at you. After all, it's the real reason the smartphone was invented — email, messaging, and apps can come to the same little gadget that makes phone calls.Notifications have also always been Android's strong suit. With a little bit of what companies like BlackBerry used to deliver combined with the best of what Apple offers and a touch of Google's extra smart software magic thrown in for good measure, Android's notification system is pretty great. And it's about to get better with Android 12 and the Conversation Shortcut.We've seen the mockups and even where people have hacked away at the Android 12 developer ...

Phones are essential to people for all sorts of reasons, but even the best Android phone pretty much worthless if it has no juice. This is why having multiple ways to keep your phone going is helpful, and knowing how to charge your phone using solar power gives you even more freedom. A typical way to power these slabs of technology is by plugging them into a fast USB-C wall charger at your home or office, possibly with an excellent battery pack that was charged the same way. However, even this option fails if the power is out or you're away from an outlet.Putting the sun to workThere are alternative ways to get power to your phone cleanly and away from the electrical grid. One of those options is to use the power of the sun, and it couldn't be easier. There are ways of powering your entire home with solar, but it can be costly, and you may not own your home, which can make installing solar panels on it out of the question.So, instead of using solar for everything you own with a...

The ultimate hyper active speakerI've covered many of the best Bluetooth speakers here at Android Central, but most of my personal experience has been with smart speakers from the likes of Sonos, Amazon, and Google. I hadn't used an Ultimate Ears product in quite some time, so of course, I was hyped when I had the chance to do this Hyberboom review.I'm by no means an audiophile, but I know what sounds good and what doesn't (that had a Forrest Gump "I'm not a smart man, but I know what love is" ring to it). I know that the experts don't consider most Echo speakers to be amazing sounding, but I also know that high fidelity is not necessarily the most important quality for someone looking for a rugged, durable, and portable Bluetooth speaker. And yet, after spending some time with the Ultimate Ears Hyperboom, I think that this speaker could satisfy both the audiophile and the outdoor adventurist. It may be meant to take a beating, but it serves up some amazing beats itself.Ultim...

The BBC is famed for producing critically acclaimed television content loved by millions. And you can watch many of the British broadcaster's greatest TV shows, movies, and more on its official streaming platform: iPlayer.BBC iPlayer has content for pretty much everyone, from dramas to documentaries. Some of its best shows include Doctor Who, Fleabag, Rupaul's Drag Race UK, Our Girl, Eastenders, Line of Duty, Call the Midwife, Killing Eve, Gavin & Stacey, Louis Theroux, Merlin, and lots more.Best BBC iPlayer VPNs 20211. NordVPN (From $3.71/mo)2. ExpressVPN (From $6.67/mo)3. Surfshark VPN (From $2.49/mo)4. Hotspot Shield VPN (From $2.99/mo)5. VyprVPN (From $1.66/mo)6. CyberGhost VPN (From $2.25/mo)1. NordVPN: The best BBC iPlayer VPNFrom $3.71/mo at NordVPNNordVPN is one of the most common and biggest names in the VPN space, and it also happens to be one of the best — especially for BBC iPlayer with its variety of UK servers.2. ExpressVPN: A very...

Realme 8 5G is the first phone to launch in India with MediaTek's 7nm Dimensity 700 chipset.What you need to knowRealme has announced a 5G-enabled variant of the Realme 8.The phone is powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 700 5G chipset and features a 90Hz display. It will go on sale in India from April. Realme today expanded its Realme 8 family of budget phones with a 5G version of the vanilla Realme 8. Even though the name of the phone suggests otherwise, the Realme 8 5G doesn't have a lot in common with the 4G-only Realme 8.The Realme 8 5G sports a 6.5-inch FHD+ LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and Dragontrail glass protection. Powering the device is MediaTek's Dimensity 700 5G chipset, paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.In the camera department, the Realme 8 5G isn't quite as impressive as the Realme 8. It has a triple-camera setup on the back with a 48MP Samsung GM1 sensor, a monochrome portrait lens, and a macro lens with a 4cm focus distance. For sel...

Google's smartphone lineup is getting a little confusing.What you need to knowThe upcoming Pixel 5a 5G will reportedly feature one of last year's most popular chipsets.Given the leaked design, there will be little to differentiate this phone from its predecessor.The Pixel 5a 5G is expected to launch later this year, possibly along with the Pixel 6.The Google Pixel 5a 5G may be pushed off for a limited release later this year, but that doesn't mean the leaks will stop coming in. Surprisingly, not too much is known about the device besides the fact that it'll look eerily similar to the most recent Pixel smartphones. The most recent tidbit finally gives us an idea of what chipset we might expect in the upcoming mid-range smartphone, and it's left us scratching our heads.According to a report from 9to5Google, code within the latest Android 12 Developer Preview references "Barbet," the codename for the Pixel 5a 5G, along with "sm7250," which points to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7...

The Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Huawei Mate X2 bring similar designs for different audiences.What you need to knowMrMobile spent some time with the Huawei Mate X2 and gave his impressions on the foldable phone.Fueling his impressions of the Mate X2 is how it compares to the Galaxy Z Fold 2.You can watch Mr. Mobile's video below on his thoughts on both Samsung and Huawei's second-gen foldables.One of the fears of buying an expensive, foldable smartphone is not only the practicality of certain form factors (which may still be for debate) but also the fragility of the devices. That's something MrMobile had to learn the hard way once before with the Moto Razr 5G, and something he's once again experiencing with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2. This is what made him really consider what the Huawei Mate X2 is trying to accomplish and why it just might work.Despite possibly being the best foldable phone in a market with so few, Galaxy Z Fold 2 owners have apparently reported cracking along t...

These are the games you've been looking for.Like many companies in the industry, Facebook is eschewing the big gaming tradeshows of yesteryear and, in its stead, used the first-ever Oculus Gaming Showcase to announce some of the best Oculus Quest games coming this year. Oculus Gaming Showcase 2021 kicked off last week with the massive surprise announcement of the Resident Evil 4 VR remake, the very first Oculus Quest 2-exclusive title. Without further ado, here's everything that was shown off at the Oculus Gaming Showcase 2021!Resident Evil 4 VR RemakeDoes Resident Evil 4 even need an intro? As one of the most lauded games of all time and one of the most successful reimaginings of an already successful series, Resident Evil 4 set the bar for action-horror games for years to come. This port of the classic Gamecube title is seeing a complete reimagining for the Quest 2 with combat and puzzle mechanics sporting a full VR overhaul. It's also the first Quest 2-exclusive game, wh...

Chromebooks are getting some beneficial tools with this latest release.What you need to knowGoogle is releasing a new update to Chromebooks that adds a few new features.Chromebooks will soon gain a diagnostics tool and Live Captions.Users will be able to send scanned documents straight to their Chromebooks.Google is rolling out a new update today for the best Chromebooks to add several new features to the machines. One of the most significant additions to the update is Live Caption, which has already rolled out on the Chrome browser for other desktop OSes. The feature will now roll out to "most Chrome OS devices" soon and be available through the accessibility settings. For now, if you own machines with any other OS, we can show you how to enable Live Caption in Google Chrome for desktop.More immediate features coming to Chromebooks include the updated Launcher, which now has a more useful Everything Button. Users can type in any type of queries such as weather, stocks, o...

What you need to knowThe latest Diablo Immortal closed alpha will only be available in Australia.The newest alpha includes a brand new class, new dungeon, and the introduction of the game's PvP features. Players can check out the closed alpha now. After running a closed alpha for technical testing late last year, Blizzard is ready to give players another chance to return to the world of Diablo Immortal. The company announced on Wednesday that another closed alpha for the game has begun today in Australia and will last for months, while also introducing a lot more for returning players.After limiting players to a lower level cap in its initial test, Blizzard has raised the level cap of this alpha to 55, and will also offer testers an early look at some of the endgame systems, new zones, and a new dungeon that was previously not in the initial alpha. Best of all, players will now get the chance to try out a brand new class in a game that's already ranking among one of the bes...

The power delivery standard has paved the way for a new wave of USB-C battery packs that are both powerful and portable. While there are some massive power banks aimed more at charging laptops or powering devices through long camping trips, I rank the lighter and cheaper models as the most reliable option when considering the best USB-C charger. Because of their lightweight, less expensive chargers tend to quickly power a phone while you're sitting down for lunch or store easily in your pocket during long days out and about. Whether you prefer your power banks, big or small, these are the best ones around!Colorful chargersAnker PowerCore Slim 10,000mAh PDStaff PickAnker's top-quality, durable and dependable phone-sized power bank now comes in five colors, and I, for one, am thrilled. The Terracotta Rose might not be for everyone, but the Deep-Sea Indigo and Dark Olive are universal and understated.From $24 at Amazon From $30 at WalmartNot too big, not too smallAUKEY 1...

Twitter is rolling this out to a limited number of people.Update, Apr 21 (4 pm ET): 4K image support is rolling out for everyoneWhat you need to knowTwitter is testing two photo-related tweaks on mobile apps.It'll let users see how their photos will appear on the timeline as part of a change to the tweet composer.The company will also enable higher quality uploads, allowing for the sharing of 4K pictures.Twitter is testing out an improvement to how its mobile app handles photos on Android. In a limited test the company announced today, there'll be changes made to both the tweet composer and image upload quality.The composer will now display a more representative view of an image you plan to share pre-upload. That is to say, you'll now see how it would appear in the timeline before you upload it.The second is a small tweak that'll let you see and view 4K pictures on Android and iOS. It's a step up from the compressed images that users can share now, and it'll presumabl...

Stadia on your TVChromecast Ultra$100 at Google StoreProsEnables Google Stadia on TV4K HDR supportIncludes ethernet adapterFaster startup and streamingConsNo Google TVOnly available in Stadia Premiere Edition bundleExpensiveThe Chromecast Ultra remains the only device that lets you stream Stadia games on your television. It can also cast any content in 4K HDR and Dolby Vision. Unfortunately, this device doesn't support the new Google TV platform and is also no longer sold on Google's website, making the Stadia Premiere Edition the only way to get ahold of one.Cheap 1080p castingChromecast (3rd gen)$30 at Amazon$30 at Best Buy$30 at WalmartProsSolid 1080p pictureCan be powered by your TV USB portThe cheapest Chromecast availableConsNo 4K or HDR supportNo Ethernet portNo Stadia supportNo Google TV supportThe standard third-generation Chromecast is effectively the same device as the Chromecast Ultra, but it loses 4K streaming c...

The OnePlus Watch might finally be getting good.What you need to knowThe OnePlus Watch is being updated soon with several fixes and enhancements.The update will bring enhanced notification support and better system stability.OnePlus also plans to bring Always-On Display and a remote camera function.The OnePlus Watch has not been received too well, and a lot of that has to do with the software experience. Many reviewers have even suggested that you'd be better off with any of the best Wear OS watches. Fortunately, OnePlus has apparently heard the criticisms and is rolling out an update soon that should hopefully help with the smartwatch's software woes.Hopefully, the update should improve notification support on the watch, which is something that many users have complained about. Notifications would either not sync properly, or many apps weren't supported, so that should improve with the update, although it's not clear to what extent. OnePlus states that notification app i...

Filling in the blanksGalaxy Watch Active 2$200 at AmazonProsOptional LTEDigital rotating bezelImproved sensorsBuilt-in GPSRunning Analysis & VO2 MaxConsBattery drains faster with LTE modelMore expensive, especially with LTESometimes upgrades miss the mark. Fortunately, that's not the case with the Galaxy Watch Active 2. It improves existing sensors with faster and more accurate readings. It also adds some other new perks that fill in the blanks left by its predecessor.OG fitness smartwatchGalaxy Watch Active$149 at AmazonProsBuilt-in GPSGreat fitness trackingMore affordable optionNow has a digital rotating bezelConsOnly one size optionNo LTE connectivityThe Galaxy Watch Active is still a mighty impressive smartwatch. It's got all the features you'd expect, like built-in GPS, activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, Samsung Pay, smartphone notifications, and more. It's also less expensive.Galaxy Watch Active 2 vs. Gal...

Google Meet makes it easier to see more people.What you need to knowGoogle Meet is rolling out with an updated design and new features.Participants will have the ability to pin presentations or speaker tiles with more room to show everyone on the call.Google is also rolling out low-light mode for the web application, a new data saver, and the ability to hide your own video from your view.Google Meet has been a big focus since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic since many people transitioned to work-from-home lifestyles. Google has continuously rolled out updates to the video conferencing application, making it easier to manage while working from home. For instance, now you can use Google Meet's virtual green room to check yourself before a call. The latest update adds some useful tools thanks to the power of AI and more efficient design tools to keep users engaged with everyone on the call.In May, Google plans to update Meet's layout to make sure more people are in view...

If you are looking for an affordable, mid-range smartphone, we think the Google Pixel 4a is the best Android phone you can get under $400. That's because it offers the same core experience as the higher-end Pixel 4 that preceded it. You get the same software and features and the same camera experience. The only shortcomings come in the hardware and a couple of the specs — a fine trade-off to save hundreds of dollars.Best Overall Android Phone Under $400: Google Pixel 4aThe Pixel 3a from 2019 stood out as one of the best Android values for well over a year, and to fill its impressive shoes, we now have the Pixel 4a. Google took what worked about the 3a, kept it in place, and added a few improvements to make the Pixel 4a as fully-featured as possible — all while selling the Pixel 4a for less than what the 3a cost.As with any Pixel phone, the best thing about the Pixel 4a is its camera. The 12.2MP single rear camera certainly isn't impressive on paper, but it's outstanding i...

Google's done with the table setting.What you need to knowGoogle today released the last Android 12 Developer Preview.The company highlighted improved haptics, new splash screens, and enhanced app linking support.Google's also added broader support for high-res camera sensors.Android 12 is around the corner, and this last developer preview is the last hurdle Google's going to leap before the consumer beta. Available to all Pixels from the Pixel 3 onwards, this new update doesn't have much in the way of user-facing features, but it does provide new tools for developers to build those user-facing experiences down the line.Google emphasizes haptics for instance, but you won't be seeing any changes to haptics work on your phone immediately. Instead, it's a change mostly aimed at gaming, Android 12 will allow developers to "emphasize key events and actions in their UI", and developers will be able to build more console-like experiences when it comes to making use of your phone...

If you have your eyes on OPPO's new flagship smartphone, the OPPO Find X3 Pro, chances are you have been lured in by its impressive feature set, which includes the 50MP camera that provides true color reproduction (seriously, it was used to film an entire sci-fi movie!), sizable 6.7-inch AMOLED screen, and Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G mobile process. Even though it isn't officially available in the U.S., you might find clever ways to get your hands on one. If you do, like with any phone, you should instantly protect it with a case. But with features like an integrated fingerprint reader and Smart Sidebar, you'll need to make sure the case you choose can accommodate the phone's unique design without impeding on functionality. These are the best OPPO Find X3 Pro cases you can get so far.Luxury leatherPUROOM Luxury Carbon Fiber PU Leather CaseStaff PickThere's just something about the OPPO Find X3 Pro that screams elegance, so this case seems perfectly fitting. Not only is it av...