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The best MVNO carrier manages to offer a great value with solid coverage by leveraging the network of one of the major carriers. This setup can lead to a wider range of plans and can keep you out of a contract if you don't want to be tied to any one carrier. It can also be a good way to try out a new network without spending too much money or time moving numbers over. Metro by T-Mobile is the best overall MVNO offering great data options and plenty of ways to save money with multiple lines.Best Overall: Metro by T-MobileMetro by T-Mobile is owned by T-Mobile and uses the T-Mobile LTE network. Years ago, this would have been a reason to pass on the carrier but in recent times, T-Mobile's network has become one of the strongest networks in populated areas. The network has continued to gain ground in rural areas as well thanks to its 600Mhz spectrum for LTE and 5G. Even with all of the improvements, you should check the coverage map to be sure you're covered. 5G support is here on...

LastPass's free plan will soon get a whole less lot appealing.What you need to knowA LastPass change coming next month will force free users to pick what kind of device they want to use the service with.You'll also need to use LastPass's paid plan to access email support.The change to device types takes effect in March, while the support changes will start in May.LastPass is rolling out a change to its free plans that will affect users drastically. Specifically, it'll limit the kind of devices users can run the app on from March 16th, 2021. Users will have to select their device type by logging into their account. Depending on which device you choose, you'll automatically be opted into the mobile or computer type. and they'll be offered three chances to switch before needing to choose or trade up to the premium plan.To clarify, you could use two types of devices on the previous plan, now you can use an unlimited number of devices, albeit limited to one type in pre-defined...

The OnePlus Watch looks a bit more conventional than the last sketches we got.What you need to knowThe OnePlus Watch was spotted in new patent sketches.The watch features a traditional round watch design, unlike the watch from OPPO which OnePlus has a close relationship.The watch could launch alongside the OnePlus 9 smartphones in March.OnePlus has been stepping up its hardware game, as noted by last year's OnePlus 8 smartphones as well as the current leaks of the upcoming OnePlus 9 trio. Last year the company teased that it was releasing a watch in early 2021, which has been technically true after the launch of the OnePlus Band. Fans are still expecting a more traditional smartwatch which appears to also be in the works according to a new patent.A German site spotted some patent sketches (via GSMArena) of a smartwatch device submitted by OnePlus to the German office for patents and registered brand names. The images show several different angles of what could be two diff...

Deals on Apple iPhone devices and Samsung Galaxy phones are everywhere, but it's a bit more difficult to find a great deal on a OnePlus device. There are plenty of current OnePlus models to choose from, and whether you want a OnePlus 8, or a OnePlus 7 Pro, or one of the more affordable OnePlus Nord devices is the first big question you'll need to answer for yourself.Best OnePlus Deals Available NowOnePlus Nord devices: free case or screen protectorOnePlus 8 devices: up to $800 offOnePlus 7 devices: starting at $350Which to buy?OnePlus 8 with $200 prepaid Mastercard and Beats headphones at VisibleVisible is offering a free $200 prepaid Mastercard Virtual Account when you switch to Visible, port-in your current number, and buy the OnePlus 8. You'll also score a free pair of Beats Solo Pro wireless headphones. Though the phone has higher monthly payments here than at other retailers, Visible's $40 all-in monthly plan for unlimited talk, text, and data helps to make th...

Samsung has taken more than a few cracks at different product categories, and smartwatches have been no exception. With several attempts at getting it right already in the books through new smartwatches and fitness trackers every year. We take a look at some of the best available, including the newest of the bunch with the Galaxy Watch 3 and its stylish take on telling more than just time.Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy Watch 3After focusing on its more fitness-focused smartwatches in 2019, Samsung pivots back to its more refined design philosophy with the Galaxy Watch 3. The watch isn't radical in sporting any sort of redesign, and it will look familiar to anyone who knows Samsung's smartwatches. But it is smaller, lighter and thinner, which could make it more appealing to a greater subset of wearers. The genuine leather band is casual and elegant all at once, and the standard lugs mean you can always strap on another one.It's also feature-laden, though a couple of key ones wil...

The Power Delivery standard has paved the way for a new wave of the best 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 much prefer the lighter and cheaper chargers that can quickly charge a phone while sitting down for lunch or in my 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 $26 at AmazonFrom $30 at WalmartNot too big, not too smallAUKEY 15,000mAh USB-C Power BankNeed to charge multiple phones over the course of your busy day or need a power bank that could la...

He's finally showing up — alongside performance updates for owners of the newest consoles.What you need to knowHawkeye is being added to Marvel's Avengers on March 18 in a free update.Hawkeye's storyline is called Operation: Future Imperfect and delves into a new area called the Wasteland.The next-generation patch will also be released for free on March 18. Marvel's Avengers launched back in September 2020, with ambitious post-launch plans for DLC including a wide range of new characters. Today, Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics shared that the iconic sharpshooter Hawkeye is coming to the game on March 18. Hawkeye will be accompanied by the next-generation patch for PS5, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, which is a free update for anyone who has already bought the game.This upgrade was originally planned to release in 2020 but was pushed back due to the developers targeting bug fixes and other quality of life improvements for players. You can check out the trailer below f...

Bring Android to your desktop.When searching for the best Android emulators, you likely already know what you want the emulator to do for you. However, the truth is these emulators are capable of so much, bringing the Android experience to your desktop or laptop.Maybe you're a developer looking for a way to test out your apps, or just want to be able to play games like PUBG and COD Mobile on a bigger screen than your phone. Whatever the reason is, there are plenty of Android emulators to choose from, so there's really no "wrong" answer here. However, there are some key differences between the best options which could help to make or break your decision for choosing one emulator over the other.The top 3 apps1. BlueStacks2. NoxPlayer3. Android StudioMore optionsGameLoopMEmuLD PlayerBliss OSGenymotionThese are the best Android Emulators for PC and MacWhether you're using a Mac or PC, BlueStacks is the perfect emulator for anyone wanting to download and use ...

If you're a gamer who's into Xbox, PlayStation, or both, and are even planning to get your hands on the new PS5 or Xbox Series X, chances are you want to get the best experience possible. This requires loading up on some great PS5 accessories, including the best HDMI 2.1 compatible cables you can find to support higher resolution, more bandwidth (up to 48Gbps), faster refresh rates, and even dynamic HDR.Best for flexibilityANNNWZZD 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable – 10-FootStaff pickThis 10-foot cable (other sizes available) has been bend-tested up to 10,000 times without seeing any reduction in flexibility. It's finished in bright red, making it easy to see behind the TV, and has a high-purity copper conductor and triple-shielded layer with nylon braided jacket for extra durability.$15 at AmazonBrand name cloutMonster Ultra High-Speed 8K HDMI Cable – 4-FootMonster was known for manufacturing audio/video cables long before the company made headphones, speakers, and other dev...

Whether you are buying a PS5 or already have yourself a PlayStation 4, you are probably considering picking up a PlayStation Plus subscription. For those unaware, PlayStation Plus is Sony's online subscription service that allows you to play multiplayer games with friends, get discounts on games, and so much more. Normally, the service costs about $60 for the year, but you generally don't have to look too far in order to find a discount on it.What's really great about shopping for PlayStation Plus subscriptions is the fact that they can be stacked, so even if your subscription isn't due right now you can still buy a discounted one and then add it to the end of your current subscription. This means that you can even buy two of the subscriptions on sale and potentially get two years of PS Plus for the same cost as a single year would normally cost if you weren't looking for a deal.PlayStation Plus has a LOT of great benefits beyond just the ability to play online games with your fr...

More trouble for the social media company.What you need to knowTikTok is facing complaints from European consumer bodies.The BUEC and 15 other bodies accused the company of being lax with data and having skewed terms of service.By way of response, TikTok offered a meeting with BEUC representatives to "listen to their concerns."TikTok is facing multiple complaints from the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), and other consumer organizations in 15 European countries over privacy rights violations. The BEUC today argued that the social media app breached EU consumer rights and failed to protect children from both inappropriate content and stealth advertising. It called for a comprehensive EU investigation into TikTok's policies and practices and requested more transparency from the company.More specifically, the BEUC alleged that TikTok was unclear in its terms of service with the terms drafted to give outsized benefits to TikTok rather than users when it came to content ...

Nothing can turn your great Android phone from state-of-the-art to overpriced paperweight faster than a dead battery. The best portable chargers and power banks can help recharge your tech when life plays keep-away with your power outlets. Portable chargers used to be big, bulky, and slow, but USB-C power banks and Power Delivery charging standards have made things much faster — fast enough to charge laptops, even — and have allowed power banks to get slimmer and better than ever. There are plenty of options in every shape or size, but our favorite is the affordably awesome RAVPower PD Pioneer Series 20,000mAh.Best Overall: RAVPower PD Pioneer Series 20,000mAhWhen choosing a portable charger, it's all about balancing power with portability. After all, a power bank doesn't do you any good if it's so bulky that you forget it at home. Likewise, a power bank that's small but low-capacity can run dry before your day is over, especially when you need to keep multiple devices aliv...

Whether the weather you need to weather is coming by land or by sea, we're here to help you prepare for it.Hurricane Season is still a few months off, but tornadoes and flash flooding can strike during any season. While we don't yet have the technology to stop powerful storms from wreaking havoc, we do have the technology to help prepare us for them. Your Android phone is a tool that helps you through most major events in your life, and severe weather is no exception, so long as you properly prep your phone and have a plan in place to follow with it. We are here to help you, so let's batten down the hatches and get the barn doors shut.Severe Weather and Android:Weather EssentialsSevere Weather AccessoriesBlizzards and Winter StormsHurricanesTornadoes and Severe ThunderstormsWeather EssentialsRegardless of the kind of weather you'll face when you step outside your door, there are some weather essentials everyone should have on their phones, and that starts with a...

Alexa on the moveAmazon Echo Show 10$250 at AmazonProsRotating screen tracks you in full semi-circle13MP CameraSlightly larger tweeter speakersLow power mode, made from recyclablesZigbee + Sidewalk compatibilitySentry mode security cameraConsNo facial, voice recognitionVery large, heavyThe Amazon Echo Show 10 is a game-changing smart display that extends its smarts beyond the assistant to the device itself. While in use, its 13MP camera tracks you physically, so you never lose sight of the display while moving about the room. Fast Alexa commands and good speaker tech make this a smart display worth buying.Knows your face and voiceNest Hub Max$230 at Best BuyPros127-degree wide-angle cameraFacial and voice matchingQuick gesturesFantastic audio qualityAuto-dimming screenLong list of Google Assistant-compatible devicesConsRear-firing speakers can cause sound issuesMic/camera cover turns off both at onceThe Nest Hub Max was desi...

Here's where Android is headed for 2021.Android 11 was an update that was greater than the sum of its parts. Smaller features like chat bubbles, conversation notifications, and a built-in screen recorder don't sound all that impressive on their own. Combined into one seamless package, however, Android 11 was a pretty great update for Google's mobile OS.We're now in 2021, and before you know it, we'll be playing around with the first developer preview of Android 12. Details on the next big update are still few and far between, but even so, that's not going to stop us from speculating and making a few educated guesses about where we're headed next.From rumored features, interface changes, availability, and more — here's everything we know so far about Android 12!Android 12:AvailabilityBetaFeaturesInterfaceAndroid 12 AvailabilityWhile the timing of Android version releases has changed over the years, the past few have been pretty consistent. Here are the date...

VR Cover has been around for years now, making accessories that help make VR more comfortable. The VR Cover for Oculus Quest 2 facial interface replacement makes the best VR workout games considerably more enjoyable since you're no longer left with a nasty, sweaty foam pad afterward. But VR Cover has a lot more for the Oculus Quest 2 than just face pads. It has solutions for every single part of the Quest 2 to make it the most comfortable VR experience you've ever had. We've got all of these accessories listed below and will give you the low-down on the very best ones to get!A comfort overhaulFacial interface and foam pad replacementStaff PickSince our review of the facial interface and foam pad replacement, VR Cover has further refined the product and even added a ton of new colors to the list of options. My personal favorite is the Winter Edition, which ships with a red facial interface connector and two white PU-leather pads for your face. These enhance comfort and pro...

The Moto G30 is the company's most affordable smartphone yet with a 90Hz screen.What you need to knowMotorola has unveiled two new affordable budget Android smartphones.The new Moto G30 comes with a Snapdragon 662 chipset, a 90Hz HD+ screen, and a 64MP main camera.Moto G10 has a similar design to the Moto G30, but features a less powerful Snapdragon 460 processor and a 60Hz display.Motorola today announced two new additions to its ever-growing lineup of budget Android phones: Moto G30 and Moto G10. While the two new phones don't look quite as modern as Motorola's best Android phones, they do pack large batteries and impressive camera hardware.The Moto G30 comes equipped with a 6.5-inch HD+ display featuring a 90Hz refresh rate and a waterdrop notch for the 13MP selfie camera. It is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 662 processor, paired with up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of expandable storage.Around the back of the phone is a quad-camera setup featuring a 64MP main sensor, ...

Best Oculus Quest 2 Deals Available NowOculus Quest 2: as low as $285Oculus accessories: starting at $39More on the Oculus Quest 2The next step in VR hardware has arrived, and now that the Oculus Quest 2 is available on store shelves, you can discover an immersive virtual reality of gaming starting as low as $299. Of course, if you know where to shop, you might even be able to score a discount on this new VR system.While deals don't come around every day on this new release just yet, it's not too soon to score a discount on the Oculus Quest 2. In fact, we could be seeing some major savings sooner than you'd think. If you have yet to decide whether this VR headset is the right one for your home, our Oculus Quest 2 review can help you learn more about the new model.Best Oculus Quest 2 DealsThe Oculus Quest 2 was only just released in mid October, so it will still be some time before we see any crazy discounts on the new model. However, we already know of a consistent wa...

The wait is almost over.What you need to knowSamsung has opened preorders for the Galaxy Chromebook 2, starting at $550.Available in two colors, this more affordable version of last year's ultrabook comes with either a Celeron or an Intel Core i3.The Galaxy Chromebook 2 will go on sale March 1, and if you buy it from Samsung or Best Buy from March 1-14, you get a $30 credit to spend on your next purchase.If you preorder in February, you get a $50 credit instead of $30.Announced at CES 2021, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 took the original striking (and stunningly expensive) Galaxy Chromebook and reined in the over-the-top features in order to provide a premium Chromebook without quite as much of a premium price tag, giving us one of the Best Chromebooks without breaking our wallets in half. Rather than a 4K AMOLED display, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 has a 1080p QLED display. Rather than having the Active Pen garaged in the laptop, the stylus will now be sold separately. Rath...

You can now buy one of the most sustainable phones.What you need to knowThe Teracube 2e is now available for purchase in the U.S. and Canada.This is the company's second sustainably-focused smartphone.The device will retail for $199.With electronic waste quickly becoming a growing environmental and economic concern, many consumers have started looking for alternatives to help them jump off the constant hamster wheel of phone upgrades. Some are holding onto their devices longer, while others are looking for signals from manufacturers like Apple and Samsung that they are taking these environmental issues seriously. One relatively new company, Teracube, has made environmental responsibility one of its core principles, and it just announced that its second sustainable smartphone, the Teracube 2e, is now available for purchase by customers in the U.S. and Canada.The Teracube 2e is an affordable mid-range Android device with a Mediatek Helio A25 Octa-core processor, 4GB of RAM,...

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra has a curved AMOLED display covered with Gorilla Glass 6, but that doesn't mean it doesn't need a great screen protector. Curved glass is inherently more vulnerable than flat, and the Note 20 Ultra's massive screen leaves many opportunities for scratches and potential cracks. That's why you should buy one of the best Galaxy Note 20 Ultra screen protectors for your new, expensive phone.The glass wayVenoro Tempered Glass Screen ProtectorStaff PickVenoro is a name we often rely on for quality screen protectors for all major phone releases, and with the Note 20 Ultra, it's showing up to the plate yet again. This single-screen protector is of the tempered glass variety, offering incredibly scratch resistance, a 99.99% transparency rating, and a super slim design at just 0.2mm thick.$12 at AmazonComboBAZO Soft Screen Protector (2-Pack)If you're looking to stretch your dollars a bit more, you can't ignore this package from BAZO. It ...

Chatting with the AC forums.As we've said countless times here on AC, one of the best parts about Android is its openness to customization. If you don't like how something looks out of the box, there's a good chance you can change it and make it yours.The Galaxy S21 has been out in the wild for a few days now, and as more and more people are getting their hands on it, they're quickly discovering what they love about the phone and what needs some tinkering. For certain users, that tinkering has to do with the launcher experience.A few S21 owners recently got to talking about which launcher they're rocking on the new phone, saying: ABOSWORTH007 02-13-2021 03:36 PM “ Nova for me. One UI has improved over the years but it is still lacking too many things for me to switch to it. Nova is the best launcher IMO. I've used several Reply gendo667...

Covering Android in 2021 from a reformed iPhone user's perspective.Nearly 90% of smartphone users worldwide may choose Android, but having grown up in an Apple household, my iPhone indoctrination was decades in the making. My parents had an iMac G4 with the swiveling display, while I used an eMac that I often physically carried into my sister's room so I could connect to the only ethernet port and chat with friends on AIM. While I left for college with an old flip phone, I eventually got sick of texting on a number pad and got an iPhone 4, back when AT&T still gave you free phone upgrades every couple of years as part of a family plan. Before I could objectively compare iOS vs Android, I had to shake a twenty-year, one-sided relationship with Apple.Then came an iPhone 6, and most recently an iPhone XR, plus various MacBooks in the same time frame. I had adopted the Apple's various operating systems as part of my technical identity, and made it plain that I knew what I li...

You'll no longer have to rely on the manual rotation suggestion button to rotate the screen while laying on your sides.What you need to knowGoogle reportedly plans to introduce a new face-based Auto-Rotate option for Pixel phones with Android 12.The feature will use the front camera on your phone to check which way your head is turned before it changes the orientation.It could also be rolled out to other Android phones eventually.Google is soon expected to drop the first Android 12 Developer Preview. Based on all the all the information that has leaked so far, the next Android release will bring a few significant UI changes, a new one-handed mode, as well as a few other useful new features. According to a report from 9to5Google, Android 12 could also bring a new face-based "smart autorotate" feature for Google's Pixel phones.The autorotation feature on Android phones uses data from the gyroscope and accelerometer to change the screen orientation. While it works fine most...

Sometimes it pays off to use multiple devices from the same brand. Apple has long embraced ecosystem lock-in, offering Continuity to sync apps and features across its various devices, and you can now get the same sort of cross-device connectivity between the best Samsung phones and tablets. Samsung is calling it "Continue Apps," and it works on any Galaxy device running One UI 3.1.Products used in this guideHuge screen, huge specs: Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ ($770 at Amazon)Ultra versatile: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra ($1,000 at Amazon)How to set up Continue Apps on your devicesOpen the Settings app.Scroll down the list and tap Advanced features.Tap Continue apps on other devices.Tap the switch to enable the feature. You need to be signed into your Samsung account for this feature to work.You'll need to enable Continue Apps on each Galaxy device you wish to use this feature on. The steps should be the same for any device running Samsung's One UI 3.1. If you don't see the...

Here's why something like a web browser can eat away at all of your memory.The Chrome browser runs pretty well on the best Chromebooks and even the cheaper ones, but it just eats RAM like candy on any other desktop platform. If you're the type who can't help but look at your computer's task manager, you'll see Chrome listed over and over, and each one of those instances seems to be sucking up more memory than it should. The crazy thing is that means it's working as intended.It's all because of the way Google Chrome sandboxes the browser processes. Let's say you open Chrome to just your empty tab with the Google search box there. That means you have two Chrome processes running, each needing its own memory. Add another tab and you get three. Add the 50 or so tabs you end up opening by the end of the night and you have 51, each running semi-independently from the other and each taking up system resources.That's only the beginning. Each extension starts another process. Chrome doe...

Nothing is expected to launch its first products this summer.What you need to knowCarl Pei's Nothing is giving the general public an opportunity to invest in the company through a community equity round.Pre-registrations to the financing option are now open. The campaign will go live on March 2 at 5 AM ET.OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei announced his new venture last month, a consumer technology company called Nothing. While the company hasn't revealed much about the "smart devices" that it plans to launch later this year, it today announced that it will allow its community to invest $1.5 million at the same valuation as its Series A funding. Nothing will also elect one of the crowdfunding investors as a community board member "to represent and be the voice of the community in board meetings."Carl Pei, CEO and Co-founder of Nothing, said in a statement: We want our community to be part of our journey from the very start and play an active role in it. As part of this proce...

The Amazon Fire TV Stick is a simple, affordable device that allows you to stream content from platforms including Netflix, Hulu, Youtube and — now — HBO Max. With a few button clicks, you'll have access to all of the HBO exclusives, as well as new releases from WarnerMedia. Here's what you need to do to watch HBO Max on Fire TV Stick.How to download HBO Max on Fire TV StickIf you haven't already downloaded HBO Max on your Fire TV Stick, you'll need to do that before you can start streaming the roughly 10,000 hours of content on HBO Max. Here are the steps you need to take to download the service so you can watch HBO Max on Fire TV Stick.Navigate to the Fire TV Home page.Open the Menu and select the Search function. Search HBO Max. Click the Download icon. Open the HBO Max app.Select Sign In.A prompt will appear on the screen with a code to input. Login to HBO Max on your smartphone or computer using the code.If you currently have the HBO NOW app, you should ...

Premier League title holders travel to Budapest to take on RB Leipzig in this UEFA Champions League round of 16 first-leg tie. Don't miss a moment with our RB Leipzig vs Liverpool live stream guide.Today's visitors Liverpool topped their Champions League group with four wins, earning them a spot in the round of 16. The Reds exited the competition at this stage last year after La Liga's Atlético Madrid notched a 4-2 aggregate win.Jürgen Klopp's men will want to avoid the same fate this season, especially as their Premier League campaign is not following the same trajectory as last term's.RB Leipzig also won four of six group stage games, though they were pipped for first place in the group by last year's finalists PSG. Though they had the same points tally, PSG's better head-to-head record meant that the Parisians went through in first place.The Red Bulls made it all the way to the semi-finals last year which was an impressive feat in only their second participation in the c...

Two titans of European football face off once tonight as La Liga giants FC Barcelona play host to Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain in this UEFA Champions League round of 16 game. Don't miss a moment with our Barcelona vs PSG live stream guide.Today's visitors PSG topped their Champions League group with four wins, earning them a spot in the round of 16. PSG reached their first Champions League final last season, ultimately losing out to Bayern Munich.Mauricio Pochettino's will be desperate to go one better this season, though they have hardly been handed an easy route to the next round with a matchup against five-time winners FC Barcelona.Despite winning five of six group stage games, Barcelona finished second in group G with Juventus notching the same number of wins with a better head-to-head record.Barça fans will have been disappointed with their team's performance in last year's Champions League campaign after exiting at the quarter-final stage. Then-manager Quique ...

If you're hoping to snag a cheap soundbar in order to upgrade your home audio experience, this one-day deal on the TCL Alto 8+ is worth checking out. The 2.1 channel soundbar is down to just $74.99 at Woot today — a $125 discount and a match for its all-time low Black Friday price.This deal is even better than it seems at first blush, though, as TCL's Alto 8+ isn't just a soundbar — it also features the full functionality of an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K inside making it both a soundbar and a streaming media player in one! That capability earned it a spot on our list of the best soundbars on the market.TCL's 38-inch Alto 8+ 2.1 channel soundbar brings cinematic sound to your living room with impressive acoustic performance, carefully tuned drivers, and more, while the integrated subwoofer amps up the deep, rich bass for a fuller audio experience without paying for an external sub and routing wires around your living room. There are also three different sound modes in the softwar...

The update is now rolling out to the Exynos-powered variants of all three Galaxy S21 series phones.What you need to knowSamsung is rolling out a new software update for the Galaxy S21 series phones.The update addresses the battery life issues introduced by the February security update that was rolled out earlier this month.Aside from addressing poor battery life, the update doesn't bring any other big changes. Samsung rolled out the latest February 2021 security patch for its flagship Galaxy S21 series phones earlier this month. While the update didn't include any big changes, several Galaxy S21 owners began complaining about poor battery life after installing it.As reported by the folks at SamMobile, Samsung has now started rolling out a new update for its best Android phones to address the battery life issues introduced by the previous update. The update arrives as version G99xBXXU1AUB6 and is already rolling out in several countries around the world. Since the battery...

The best streaming VPN will let you get access to video online, no matter where you are. That means the likes of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube and more can all have their geo-restrictions dodged so you can get your streaming video fill.Best streaming VPN 20211. ExpressVPN (From $6.67/mo)2. CyberGhost VPN (From $2.25/mo)3. NordVPN (From $3.71/mo)4. Surfshark VPN (From $2.49/mo)5. IPVanish (From $3.33/mo)That kind of sounds illegal, right? Well, in some cases it can potentially put you at risk and we're not here to condone getting a VPN to unblock UK BBC iPlayer when you're a U.S. resident, for example. But if you're a UK resident and TV license payer traveling overseas then you have every right to unblock access so you can catch Sherlock's latest capers. Ultimately, you'll want to exercise caution and think about what you are doing to ensure you stay safe during the process.A VPN will allow you to appear somewhere you are not so that you can access ...

Google has dropped dessert names for public consumption but still sprinkles them in its internal code.What you need to knowA new leak spills the beans on Android 12's dessert theme.An additional leak has shared details on planned interface changes to the operating system.Yet another leak details changes Google plans on making to Android's multitasking tools.Up till Android 10, the operating system was once known for its tasty treat themed names. While Google dropped those for practical reasons, it has still kept up with privately naming android versions. Android 11 was Red Velvet Cake, and according to XDA , Android 12 has the internal name of Snow Cone. It's worth noting that this wouldn't have been the release name even if Google did still keep Android dessert names around. After all, Lollipop and Kitkat and the internal names of Lemon Meringue Pie and Key Lime Pie respectively.As for matters a little more substantial than tasty treats, XDA also shared more on Google's ...

The regular Samsung Galaxy Note 20 left out a microSD slot this year, but, in comparison, the Note 20 Ultra supports microSD cards up to 1TB in size. While most of us won't quite need that level of DOWNLOAD ALL THE THINGS storage, it's a great idea to invest in a good microSD card so that you can store music, movies, and photos on that and leave internal storage for more intensive files like games and apps. Here are the best microSD cards for the Note 20 Ultra, whether you need a little room or a lot.All-around excellenceSamsung EVO Select 256GB MicroSDXCStaff PickA Samsung phone deserves a Samsung memory card, right? This is easy when Samsung makes our favorite microSD card on the market. This 4K capable card will triple the storage on your Note 20 Ultra.$33 at AmazonJust a little moreSanDisk Extreme 64GBIf you just need a little extra breathing room, the SanDisk Extreme is a long-lasting microSD card that is optimized for storing and running apps. The V30 rati...

Android skins have offered this usability tool for years.What you need to knowGoogle might be adding a one-handed mode to Android with Android 12.This will largely benefit phones from Google and Nokia as Android OEMs with their own skins have implemented a one-handed mode of their own.Android 12 should make its first appearance in a matter of weeks, but consumer-facing features are not expected to show up till Google I/O. Google is set to launch Android 12 in just a matter of weeks if past patterns are being followed, a new leak from the folks over at XDA Developers reveals a potential new feature. The company may finally be adding one-handed mode, an accessibility feature that makes using large phones easier. In most incarnations of this feature, the screen is '"shrunken" such that all touchable elements are now placed within reach of one's thumb.XDA reported on Monday: We do know that Google's current implementation in Android 12 involves shrinking the screen size d...

Car repairs can be costly (duh!) and the ominous glow of that Check Engine light could mean you have myriad issues that need immediate attention. However, it could also be a simple fix that you could do yourself. So why take it to the dealer or a mechanic without knowing what the problem is first? Some places will charge you an arm and a leg just for the scan. Instead, skip the headache and grab a home ODB2 scanner, download the app, and become your own second opinion. Here are some of the best OBD2 car readers for Android that you can get right now.Best reviewedBAFX Products Bluetooth scannerStaff PickThe BAFX Products 34t5 claims to work on all vehicles in the U.S. from 1996 or later — all you need is a third-party app and an Android phone or tablet.$21 at AmazonBest valuePanlong Bluetooth OBD2 car readerPanlong's OBD II scanner works with most post-1996 vehicles (sans some hybrids), and lets you read and clear trouble codes with real-time data readings.$13 ...

Nothing's biggest purchase just might be Essential.What you need to knowCarl Pei launched his own company, Nothing, after splitting off from OnePlus.It now appears to have acquired Andy Rubin's Essential brand.Essential went defunct in early 2020 after a failure to launch. Essential, the now-defunct company previously owned by Andy Rubin, has now been picked up by Carl Pei's new Nothing Technologies. Essential shut down almost exactly a year ago after delivering the Essential Phone to mixed critical reception but poor commercial reception.9to5Google reported: 9to5Google found recent filings at the UK Intellectual Property Office showing that former Android founder Andy Rubin has signed over ownership of his one-time smartphone entrant Essential to Carl Pei's Nothing Technologies Limited. This process was completed as of January 6, 2021, with the application actually being made as early as November 11, 2020.9to5Google speculates that Nothing could be entering the sm...

Samsung's upcoming mid-ranger gets another price leak.What you need to knowSamsung is expected to release the Galaxy A52 sometime in March.A new report today has shared the European pricing of both phones.The A52 will start at €349 for the 4G model and go up to €449 for the 5G model.Samsung is rearing up to release new mid-rangers, the A52 and the A72, in the next month. A new leak from TechnikNews today has revealed some of their European pricing, and it's something you may have expected based on the pricing from the A51. The A52 will start at an affordable €349 for the 4G model, while the 5G is set to be a bit more expensive and set prospective buyers back €449. Earlier leaks gave the pricing in South East Asia in dollars as $400 and $475 respectively.The Samsung Galaxy A52 is the successor to the A51 that shipped last year, and like the previous year, there's going to be a lot more than 4G and 5G setting these two variants apart. The 4G model will have a Snapdr...

In the last several years, we have moved more and more into the future. Basic machines are getting smarter, and sometimes we are just trying to keep up. So whether you're a smart kitchen guru or a total newbie, these easy to use smart gadgets would be an excellent addition to your home. Moving to smart devices can be a little scary, but adding some of these appliances can make your life much easier. And if you've already embraced the smart kitchen life, check out some of the best smart kitchen gadgets and appliances that can help complete your collection.Meat's best-friendThe MEATERStaff PickGuesswork? We don't know her. The MEATER boasts all the basic thermometer features and takes it even further by adding several smart features such as the Bluetooth connection and Wi-Fi connection. Combined with the MEATER app, this thermometer not only gives you recipes but also monitors your cook time. Plus, it lets you know when to pull it from the heat and how long to let it rest f...

Sharper, faster and with some unique features this time around.What you need to know4A Games is working on a free next-generation upgrade for the 2019 survival shooter Metro Exodus.This new version of the game runs at 4K 60 FPS on PS5, with faster loading, ray-tracing and DualSense features.This upgrade is set to arrive sometime later in 2021.Metro series developer 4A Games previously shared that a free next-generation upgrade for Metro Exodus was coming at some point in 2021. Now, we've got more details on exactly what this upgrade will entail. 4A Games has explained that players on PS5 and Xbox Series X can look forward to playing at 4K 60 FPS, while the Xbox Series S version is targeting 1080p 60 FPS.All three console versions will also take advantage of the internal SSDs which will allow much faster loading. The free upgrade similarly adds ray-traced global illumination and an FOV (field of view) slider. Finally, there's some platform-specific features, with the PS5 v...

Location data can be a useful tool for looking back on where you've taken a photo, or quickly finding a batch of photos from an old vacation trip, but sending an image to someone without removing that data can give away more information than you might want to share. Luckily, whether you have one of the best Samsung phones or one of the cheapest, it's easy to remove GPS data from an image in the Gallery app. Here's how!Product used in this guideBest of the best: Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra ($1,000 at Amazon)How to remove GPS location data from a photoOpen the Gallery app.Open an image whose location data you want to delete.Swipe up on the image to access additional options.Tap the small arrow icon next to the image details, which include the file size and location, along with the image resolution.Tap Edit in the upper right corner.Tap the minus button to the right of the location in which the photo was taken.Tap Save to confirm your changes and remove the GPS location ...

With Zoom calls and apartment selfies as the new reality for the immediate future, our friends, family, and co-workers are seeing us in the most unflattering light on a daily basis. Whether your face is poorly lit, overexposed, backlit, or low-resolution, you're not showing off your best self to others or to yourself. The fact is, most computers have terrible webcams, and the best way to photograph or film yourself is to use an adjustable tripod with built-in lighting and a mount for your Android camera — setups that several of Android Central's video editors use.If you're looking for a professional-quality setup that everyday photo amateurs can afford, consider the TaoTronics Ring Light CL025. We were shipped one from TaoTronics for a hands-on, and were immediately impressed by the results. Thanks to its adjustable height, varied color modes that work well with different skin tones, and a simply effective remote with Bluetooth camera tech, it has all the tools you need to make y...

At its recent Unpacked event, Samsung unveiled the all-new Galaxy S21 models. If you want to get your hands on one as soon as possible and make a saving, we're here to let you know the best place to pick one up.Best Samsung Galaxy S21 Deals Available NowSamsung Galaxy S21 Deals: Get one for FREESamsung Galaxy S21+ Deals: $200 offSamsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Deals: Save up to $1,000We've been used to Samsung releasing three S series phones a year for a little while now. Back in 2019, we saw the release of the Galaxy S10e, S10, and S10+, with 2020 giving us the Galaxy S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra. The 2021 lineup follows that trend with Samsung unveiling the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra phones.Though the Samsung Galaxy S21 devices were only just announced, there are a whole bunch of deals already available at this early stage so you can save money while also pocketing the latest flagship device on the market.Best Cheap Samsung Galaxy S21 DealsThe Samsung Galaxy S21 opera...

Rumors suggest the phone could be unveiled alongside the Galaxy A52 before the end of this quarter.What you need to knowPress renders and key specs of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy A72 have leaked.The phone is tipped to feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 720G chipset and a 90Hz AMOLED display.In Europe, the 4G variant of the phone will reportedly start at €449. Last week, a massive leak revealed nearly all the key tech specs of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy A52. More details about the Galaxy A72 have now surfaced, courtesy of German tech publication WinFuture.As per the new report, the successor to one of Samsung's best cheap Android phones of 2020 will arrive with a 6.7-inch AMOLED display featuring a 90Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution. Under the hood, it is tipped to come with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G processor, which will be paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of expandable storage. In the camera department, the Galaxy A71 successor is said to come equipped wit...

What is this supposed to help us do?Xiaomi is working on a premium version of its new Mi 11, and if an early hands-on leak from YouTuber Tech Buff PH is authentic (and it sure looks to be) the Mi 11 Ultra is all about the camera.That's nothing to be surprised about. All of the best Android phones get a big update in the camera department from the previous year's model, and camera features are one of those things you can see in any sort of release presentation. It can often feel like the phone is secondary, and companies are trying to sell us cameras that can connect to the internet.But nobody in their right mind has ever asked for what we see in the camera department in the Mi 11 Ultra hands-on: a giant camera bump with three high-megapixel cameras, a trio of what looks to be camera flashes, and a 1-inch AMOLED display that mirrors the front screen (or launches its own app, if you're into that).Why? I understand the triple-lens part. One is said to be periscopic with up t...

If you're consistently running low on time throughout the day, having a smart robot vacuum cleaner like one of these discounted models from ILIFE could work wonders for your life.The ILIFE vacuums are on sale at Amazon as a 24-hour Presidents' Day deal with as much as 25% off regular prices. With options from $119, it's well worth checking out this sale while you can.The most affordable option in the sale is the ILIFE V3s Pro. At $118.99, it's one of the best robot vacuum deals you'll find right today, down from a regular price of $160.You'll struggle to find a robot vacuum of any quality for this price anywhere else, with most costing hundreds of dollars more. The ILIFE V3s Pro has tangle-free pet hair care technology, making it great for anyone with long hair or pets. It can clean up dirt, hair, and debris on both hard floors and carpets. It also has a low profile so you can use it clean under furniture and beds.Like most robot vacuums, the ILIFE V3s Pro has a self-charging...

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A is a whole lot of tablet, but it's also one of the best Android tablets on the market, and it deserves to be protected as such. There are a lot of options out there, but we believe we've found the best Galaxy Tab A cases for the various sizes of the popular tablet so you don't have to dig through every option. Here are the best cases for your Samsung Galaxy Tab A.Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 Inch (2018 Edition)Tough TabSupCase Unicorn Beetle SeriesStaff PickThe Unicorn Beetle series by SupCase aims to offer the ultimate protection for the 10.5-inch version of this tablet. You'll get a rigid case that can take some rough bumps, and the built-in kickstand is also helpful. Plus, it comes with a screen protector built right into the case so your display stays protected, too.$25 at Amazon$27 at WalmartWork SmarterBige Keyboard CaseNeeding to do a bit of work on your Galaxy Tab A? Bige is one of the only companies making a keyboard case for the ...

Despite an annual decline, Xiaomi held on to its leadership position in 2020.What you need to knowAs per the latest data from IDC, India's smartphone market registered a near 2% YoY decline in 2020.The Indian smartphone market saw a massive 26% YoY decline in the first half of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Xiaomi remained the No.1 smartphone vendor in the country in 2020, with a market share of 27%.India's smartphone market declined 1.7% YoY in 2020, according to IDC's latest Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker. While the country's smartphone market had shipped 152.5 million units in 2019, total shipments stood at 149.7 million units in 2020.Navkendar Singh, Research Director, Client Devices & IPDS, IDC India, said in a statement: The rebound of the smartphone market in the latter half of 2020 underscores the importance of devices in our day-to-day lives. In 2021, IDC expects the smartphone market to grow in high single-digit YoY, driven majorly by upgrading consu...

Tello Mobile is making cellular service more affordable with a 50% discount across a range of plans to meet various budgets. The company's latest deal means new subscribers can score three months of service for as low as $5 per month.Without the sale, Tello's plans are already competitively priced compared to other service providers and today's offer really helps blow the others out of the competition. There's no need to stay locked into paying for an expensive service provider anymore while companies like Tello Mobile exist.Tello is an affordable, prepaid service that uses Sprint's network and has a variety of plans, many of which cost less than $20 monthly. Tello's current sale features several stellar plans to pick from, including unlimited talk and text + 1GB data for $5 per month, with 2GB data for $7 per month, or with 6GB data for $12 per month.One of the greatest features of Tello is its ability to let you customize your service by choosing the number of minutes or amou...