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While OnePlus phone in previous years had to wait weeks for viable name-brand cases to arrive, the OnePlus 9 Pro has ample selection right out of the gate, with major brands like Caseology, Otterbox, and Ringke all offering up great cases at a variety of price points. So if you're grabbing a OnePlus 9 Pro, we've rounded up the best cases available — because really, your shiny new flagship deserves nothing but the best.Clearly ruggedRingke Fusion-XStaff PickJust as Ringke made its most popular case for previous generations of OnePlus phones, the OnePlus 9 Pro is getting the Fusion-X, a durable clear case with robust air cushions inside the bumper and hard plastic back that allows you to show off that Pine Green or Morning Mist silver.$14 at Amazon $14 at WalmartSleek texturingCaseology ParallaxThe Midnight Blue version of the Parallax could make for some striking contrast with the colors on the OnePlus 9 Pro via the camera module. The rest of the phone is then co...

Is it too early to start a funeral procession for Stadia?What you need to knowStadia's general manager and head of creatives services have left the company.They have joined Jade Raymond's Haven Studios, working on a PlayStation exclusive game.This news comes shortly after Google confirmed Stadia VP John Justice was no longer with the company.Stadia has had a rough few months as even more talent leaves the studio. Following Jade Raymond and VP John Justice, General Manager Sebastien Puel and Creative Services and Publishing Head Corey May have also departed the floundering service (via Game Informer). Puel and May have apparently joined Raymond at her newfound venture, Montreal-based studio Haven, which is working on a PlayStation exclusive game.Puel and May aren't the only Stadia talent to join Raymond's team, however. Cyberia on ResetEra discovered that several other employees had left Google for Haven as well, including Jonathan Dankoff, Erwann Le Rouzic, Francis Denonc...

One way that Signal maintains its ultra-secure privacy is by not sending or storing message data in the cloud — not its own, not Apple's iCloud, not Google Drive/One, not anywhere else. So what is a loyal Signal user to do when they change phones, but want to bring their chat history with them? Well, if you're an Android user, you're in luck. You can create a locally stored, encrypted backup of your chat that can regularly and automatically back up. We'll show you how to set up and enable these automatic Signal backups on your Android phone.How to enable automatic Signal backups on an Android phoneOpen up the Signal app on your Android phone.Tap on the three-dot settings menu in the top right corner.Scroll down and tap on Chats.Scroll down and tap on Chat backups.Tap Turn On.Choose or create a folder on your device that you want to save your encrypted backups to.Tap Use This Folder.Tap to Allow Signal to access files in your selected folder.Copy the passsphrase cod...

Incredible tri-band WI-Fi 6 speed for tons of devicesThe best way to get great performance out of your wireless network is to make sure you're using all of your available resources in the best way possible. The TP-Link Archer AX90 helps you get closer thanks not only to Wi-Fi 6 but some other perks like tri-band connectivity, access to DFS channels, and 160MHz support. The Archer AX90 can be configured in several different ways to operate as fast as possible regardless of how much interference and traffic you have.TP-Link and its competitors jumped into Wi-Fi 6 with dual-band routers or routers that couldn't use Wi-Fi 6 on all bands. For many people, this is fine and will deliver all the speed they could ever want. But for people living in a congested area such as an apartment building, finding a fast setup while retaining good device compatibility can be challenging. That being said, a crazy AX11000 router could more often than not overcome these obstacles by brute force; but a ...

Board, however, doesn't agree that Facebook should have said it would suspend the account "indefinitely."What you need to knowFacebook's Oversight Board upholds Facebook's decision to suspend former president Donald Trump's account.Board does not think Facebook's decision to "indefinitely" suspend trump was appropriate.Board wants Facebook to re-evaluate its decision of banning Trump in six months. Facebook's Oversight Board upholds Facebook's decision to suspend former president Donald Trump.The board however added in its decision that the social media giant, within six months, should reexamine its decision to "indefinitely" suspend the account."It was not appropriate for Facebook to impose the indeterminate and standardless penalty of indefinite suspension. Facebook's normal penalties include removing the violating content, imposing a time-bound period of suspension, or permanently disabling the page and account," the board said."The board insists that Facebook revi...

Facebook Neighborhoods will soon be rolled out to users in select U.S. cities.What you need to knowFacebook has started testing Neighborhoods, a mini social network similar to Nextdoor.The new feature is claimed to "bring the local experience across Facebook into one place."It is now available within the Facebook app in Canada and will soon expand to the U.S. Social networking giant Facebook today announced that it has started testing a new feature called Neighborhoods, which aims to "build and strengthen local communities on Facebook."The feature works similarly to Nextdoor, which is one of the best Android apps for hyperlocal social networking. Facebook says Neighborhoods will allow users to connect with their neighbors, participate in their local community, discover new places, and get local recommendations.Neighborhoods is being offered as an opt-in experience within the Facebook app. To create a Neighborhood profile, however, you will need to be 18 years or older. ...

If there's one messaging faux pas that we're all guilty of, it's opening a message and then getting distracted before we reply. Then, a few hours, days, or weeks go by, and we look like a jerk because we never responded to our friend's question or funny GIF. After all, that message was marked as read. Well, what if I told you that you could have your cake and eat it too in this scenario? It's true! I'll show you how easy it is to preview chats on Telegram, so you can get that instant gratification of seeing who sent what without having to worry that you'll forget to respond. Let's get started!How to preview chats on TelegramOpen the Telegram app and find a thread with an unread message.Press down on the chat's profile picture.That's it! This works for both individual and group chats, and it allows you to quickly read the message to see if it's important without marking it has read. I will caution that it is much easier to preview messages from your phone or tablet than fro...

There's a lot to be said about the current state of gaming. Whether it's the explosion of mobile gaming to go along with the best gaming phones, or if you're still trying to get your hands on the PS5 or one of those fancy, new graphics cards for your PC build. However, there's another aspect entirely that has also exploded in recent months, and that's cloud gaming.While Google seems to just be waiting around for something to happen with Stadia, others are taking advantage without really pushing the mobile platform too hard. Last year saw the exit of Project xCloud from its "project" status and its entrance into the Google Play Store in an official capacity with Xbox Game Pass. Earlier this year, Microsoft even brought a similar experience to iOS and iPadOS devices, although you'll have to use it as a web app just like Stadia.As someone who currently has more phones on his desk than he can count, along with a custom-built gaming PC, a Raspberry Pi running RetroPie, a permanently...

The best Chromebooks are more than just lightweight laptops with speed and simplicity; they're adaptable devices that help us get through the day. While I don't spend all day chained to a desk with my Chromebook, whenever my Chromebook is plugged in and not actively used, it pulls double duty as a smart display. Because of the integrations with Google Assistant and Chromebook's Ambient Display feature, all it takes to turn this on is a thirty-second trip to the Settings app.How to turn on your Chromebook's Ambient ModeOpen the Settings app from the app drawer or quick settings menu.Tap or scroll down to the Personalization section.Tap Screen saver.Tap the toggle to turn it on.Select the Background images you want to use.To edit which photos you see, tap the right arrow to the right side of the selected source.If you're using Google Photos, tap the folders you want Ambient Display to pull from.If you're using Art gallery, tap Earth and space if you only want to s...

Chatting with the AC forums.While not as common as they used to be, several of the best Android phones these days like the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra or even the OnePlus 9 Pro and Oppo Find X3 Pro still have (slightly) curved displays. It seems that for right or wrong, many manufacturers have largely given up on the curved display form factor and have rediscovered the joy of flat displays. And yet, there are definitely people out there who like a curved screen. Are you one of them?This topic has sparked an interesting conversation over on the AC forums: Evilguppy 05-01-2021 03:44 PM “ Since I got my Note 20 Ultra, I've become a big fan of curved screens. I just love the feel of it when I pull out my side panel. I hear many people hate it but I can't figure out why. Maybe it's because I don't use a screen protector? I find the glass on this phone to be practically bullet proof, even my 85 lbs...

For all of the efforts that Google and Amazon are putting into smart assistants to help with smart homes, there is still a ways to go.We've seen smart homes in movies and TV shows for decades now, but in those instances, we're led to believe that all of that tech is harmonious and works together seamlessly. However, in reality, it is a very different story, and, for the most part, the question you have to ask is this: is Google or Amazon better for my smart home?Sure, there are other ecosystems you can choose, like Samsung SmartThings , which can integrate several different brands into a single app for you to manage those devices. But if you want to truly have a smart home, you're going to want to have voice control — and then it's back to the Google or Amazon decision. Choice is a great thing to have in almost every situation, but when there are only really two options here, and when neither has really solved the equation, it can be a bit of a letdown. From the app experie...

The tablet is rumored to make its global debut next month.What you need to knowThe Wi-Fi and LTE variants of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Tab A7 Lite tablet have been listed on the Google Play Console.Both variants of the tablet will be powered by a MediaTek Helio P22T chipset and run Android 11 out of the box.As its name suggests, the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite will be a cheaper version of the budget-friendly Galaxy Tab A7.We got our first look at Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Tab A7 Lite a few weeks back, courtesy of popular leaker Evan Blass. More details about the upcoming entry-level Android tablet have now surfaced, this time from Google. As spotted by the folks over at 91Mobiles, both the Wi-Fi and LTE variants of the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite have been listed on the Google Play Console. The Play Console listings reveal the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite will feature MediaTek's Helio P22T octa-core chipset, clubbed with 3GB of RAM. Additionally, the listings confirm the tablet will include an 8...

Getting a smart home security camera system set up doesn't have to break the bank if you know where to find a great deal. Today only, Woot is giving you the chance to snag a Nest Cam Outdoor 2-pack with $48 off its regular cost. At $250, this is one of the best prices we've seen for the pair, though note that the warranty offered is 90 days.The Nest Cam Outdoor records in 1080p HD at up to 30 frames per second with a 130-degree wide-angle view. There's also night vision support so you can still see what's going on after dark. Being weatherproof, these cameras are ideal for use outside your home and they plug into power so you don't have to worry about recharging any batteries. The 8x zoom lets you get a better look at certain parts of your yard or home, too.These cameras let you use your phone to see what the camera sees wherever you go. You can also have it send you custom notifications when motion is detected within a certain range. As well as seeing a feed on your phone, you c...

The first "powerful" Raspberry Pi is still alive and kicking and might be what you're looking for.The Raspberry Pi 3b (and the 3b+) was introduced way back in 2016, and for its time, it was one of the most compelling project boards available. That's because it turns out that it was a lot more than a project board, and many a game console, home entertainment system, smart home controller, and even a few robots used the inexpensive PC board. It seemed to be able to do anything.Nothing's changed in 2021, except our expectations. The Pi 3b is just as powerful as it ever was, and it's still available for anyone looking for a cheap way to get started with any DIY project. OK, so one thing changed — we now have a much more capable Raspberry Pi in version 4.You still might find a Raspberry Pi 3b is what you need, though, so we're taking a look at it today to see how it stacks up.Raspberry Pi 3 review:Price and availabilityWhat's good What's not goodThe competitionShould yo...

Finding your misplaced smartphone with Google Assistant can be a real lifesaver. The unique pain of losing your smartphone is something that we're all familiar with. Whether you set it down someplace and forgot, or it managed to work its way down into the couch cushions again, you can use Google Assistant in your smart speaker or smart screen to find it. As long as you're logged into the phone using your Google Account, and you haven't disabled Find My Device, Google Assistant uses the Find my Device service to ring your phone, even if it's muted.How to find your phone with Google AssistantAll you need to do is activate Google Assistant and ask by saying, "Hey Google, find my phone." Similar phrases like "where is my phone" and "ring my phone" also work. You can use this method on your smart speaker or on Google Assistant on another phone. As long as your account is signed in, it will work.It's a good idea to make sure Find My Device is on in the first place. You can check th...

Signal says being transparent about how ads use personal data is enough to get banned in Facebook's world.What you need to knowSignal attempted to purchase Instagram ads that would show users the personal data Facebook collects about them.Unsurprisingly, Facebook wasn't willing to sell such ads and banned Signal's account.Facebook's tools collect a ton of information about users — including location, relationship status, age, interests, and more. Facebook kicked Signal off its ads platform for trying to buy ads that would show users how the tech giant collected data from them, according to privacy-first messaging app Signal.In a blog post titled "The Instagram ads Facebook won't show you," Signal wrote: Facebook is more than willing to sell visibility into people's lives, unless it's to tell people about how their data is being used. Being transparent about how ads use people's data is apparently enough to get banned; in Facebook's world, the only acceptable usage i...

If you like ringing around your ears, you may like the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC.One great thing about the current crop of cheap wireless earbuds is that they're coming with some variances. You can get your standard fare of inexpensive buds that you might only use in dry places indoors, or maybe something more rugged. How about longer battery life? Or would you prefer active noise cancelation (ANC)?JLab tries to offer something that weaves through all those types of features and does so with a design that is supposed to keep stability and comfort in mind at all times. Any pair that uses ear hooks will fall under that category, and that's what the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC feels like.JLab Epic Air Sport ANC review:Price and availabilityWhat's good What's not goodThe competitionShould you buy?JLab Epic Air Sport ANC ...

If you weren't paying attention to Oppo before, now's the time to start.Although a behemoth in Asia, Oppo is still relatively new to Western markets. The past two years have seen a few high-profile launches for the brand, but Oppo still has a way to go in terms of brand recognition and perception in Europe.So last year, the company simplified its smartphone portfolio, positioning the Find X line as its main high-end brand. Launched a year ago in spring 2020, the Oppo Find X2 Pro isn't an outlandish, borderline experimental device like the original Find X. Instead, Oppo's goal has just been to build a really solid, top-to-bottom Android flagship that ticks every possible box.And having spent some time getting to know the Find X2 Pro, it's clear to me that this is still one of the best Android phones of the moment.Find X2 Pro reviewPrice and availabilityHardware and designDisplayBattery lifeSoftware and performanceCamerasCompetitionShould you buy it?Changelog, Ap...

T-Mobiel continues to gain more lines, but possibly at the literal cost of revenue.What you need to knowT-Mobile reported net customer additions of 1.4 million for Q1 2021.The company's total customer base has reached 103.4 million subscribers.Revenue grew year-over-year, although revenue growth was slower than competitors.First-quarter earnings for T-Mobile have been released, which show that the company continues to grow as it adds more than 1.4 million subscribers to the network, including nearly 800,000 new post-paid customers. The company also managed a year-over-year increase in revenue of $19.8 billion, which was higher than analysts expected.T-Mobile's successful quarter was partly attributed to stimulus checks that were rolled out to many Americans last quarter, putting more money into the economy and allowing more people to spend money. It also credited the growth to the rollout of the Magenta Max 5G plan, which gives customers truly unlimited 5G data.On the 5...

YouTube isn't making it easy to opt-out, either.What you need to knowYouTube is automatically opting-in videos to be sampled for Shorts.Some see the move as problematic as there was no prior notice to creators about the option.Not all videos can opt-out of the Shorts permission, but it's not clear which.Users are discovering that YouTube is automatically opting in their content without their consent to be used by others in YouTube Shorts, the platform that imitates TikTok. The permissions box found in a video edit screen reads that when checked, it "allows people to create Shorts using parts of this video." Users are finding that this box is automatically checked:IMPORTANT:YouTube suddenly automatically checked "Yes" on EVERY YouTube video to allow them to be re-uploaded as Shorts on OTHER channels ???Please let your YouTuber friends know that they have to go through and uncheck this setting on every video or risk stolen content... pic.twitter.com/b4rjiwmE2c— Mysticat #...

As one of the most popular live TV streaming services, Sling brings the best of cable to your screens while keeping the price more affordable than competitors like YouTube TV and Hulu with Live TV. When it comes to cutting the cord and replacing your cable bill with something a bit less pricey, Sling TV should be the first service you try.Sling TV streaming serviceHow much is Sling per month?What channels does Sling have?Can you get local channels with Sling?What are the Sling packages?Is Sling really free right now?What channels are on Sling Free?What platforms have a Sling TV app?With your Sling subscription, you'll never have to miss another episode of your favorite shows. Not at home? Not a problem. Sling is available as an app on Android and iOS phones and tablets, Xbox game consoles, and streaming devices like the Fire TV Stick, Roku streaming sticks, and Apple TV. Thanks to services like Sling, cable is less restricting that ever before — there's not even a...

This week, we talk about Returnal for PS5, Rebecca provides a glimpse into Miitopia, Pinocchio as a cryptid, and much more.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Returnal for PS5 review: A mesmerizing blend of action and psychological horror | Android CentralMiitopia for Nintendo Switch: Everything you need to know | iMoreBest Miitopia Mii Customizations: Mr. Clean, Mario, Revali, Garfield, and more | iMore...

There's a new reason to keep your Joy-Cons charged up.What you need to knowA Reddit user discovered that the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con could act as a remote shutter.When paired via Bluetooth, the Joy-Con can perform actions like zoom in and out along with taking the picture.Your mileage may vary depending on what phone and camera app you are using.Proud owners of the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra have patiently awaited the arrival of the S Pen Pro with its Bluetooth capabilities, but you might not have to wait any longer. Well, at least if you're looking for a device to use as a remote Bluetooth camera shutter.Although the Nintendo Switch has been available for more than four years at this point, and we're all awaiting the arrival of the Nintendo Switch Pro, the Joy-Cons have a hidden feature in-tow. Not only can you pair the Joy-Cons via Bluetooth to your Android device of choice, but as one Reddit user discovered, these can also be used as a remote camera shutter.The process...

The Pixel Buds A were outed early.What you need to knowGoogle's Android Twitter account accidentally unveiled the Pixel Buds A-series.The tweet highlights "quality sound" and "quick Bluetooth pairing."The Pixel Buds A are expected to launch during Google I/O.Google isn't very good at keeping secrets. The company's Android Twitter account accidentally tweeted out an image promoting the upcoming Pixel Buds A-series. The Tweet was live for at least ten minutes before it was taken down, which was enough time for plenty of responses and retweets.The image shows the Google Pixel Buds in a white colorway with a grey-ish accent. As expected, they look very similar to last year's Google Pixel Buds (2020). The now-deleted tweet shows off the Buds connecting to a Pixel smartphone using an "updated" Fast Pair, which gained several improvements last year and is available on some of the best wireless earbuds. This suggests that there may be more improvements in tow for the technology...

New shows are coming to YouTube.What you need to knowGoogle today announced a new slate of shows coming to YouTube Originals.The company is launching shows headlined by Will Smith and Alicia KeysIt is also launching new shows focused on racial inequity in America.YouTube today announced new YouTube Originals debuting on the platform from this year to the next. They will star big names such as Will Smith, Alicia Keys, Liza Koshy, and more.Will Smith will release Best Shape of My Life, a six-part unscripted fitness series that focuses on Mr. Smith as he attempts to restore himself to the (you guessed it) best shape of his life. It will premiere next year, and be directed by Dexton Deboree, as reported by Deadline.Alicia Keys' Noted will launch this summer and be a docuseries that showcases her world to fans. It's a four-part show and will share new performances and behind-the-scenes footage.Liza on Demand, a YouTube Originals created by YouTube star Liza Koshy, will see...

Could we see Epic make a VR game for PlayStation soon?What you need to knowEpic emailed PlayStation in 2018 to open up cross-play for Fortnite on PS4.In the email, Epic's Joe Kreiner offered for Epic to make a PS5 VR game in exchange for cross-play.It's unclear whatever came of this deal or if Epic is currently working on a VR title for PS5 VR.Epic really really wanted cross-play support for Fortnite on PlayStation, so much so that the company even offered to make a virtual reality game ready for PS5 VR. After The Verge went through emails and documents unsealed in Epic and Apple's court case, it came to light yesterday that Sony was making Epic pay for cross-play. In one of those same emails, UploadVR noticed an interesting offer that some people have glossed over: Epic was going to make a PSVR game in return for cross-play being enabled in Fortnite.In his list of proposals, Epic's Joe Kreiner said, "...maybe we commit to a game at the launch of your next VR platform?"...

Getting a new phone in your hands doesn't have to be as expensive as you might think. There are always deals out there on Android phones but they tend to come and go rather quickly with other discounts appearing in their place. However, if you're hoping to buy one of the latest devices on the market, finding a proper deal is easier than ever these days.Best Android Phone DealsUnlocked dealsCarrier dealsWhen it comes to buying a new smartphone, there are two main types of deals to consider. You could buy your new phone unlocked so that you own it and can bring it to any carrier where it's compatible, or you can purchase devices through carrier deals at a retailer such as Verizon or T-Mobile.Carrier deals generally make you pay for the device in monthly installments and require that you add a line of service, which means you'll be locked into paying for the device (and your service contract) for a few years. Deals like these can be excellent if you're willing or need to ...

Best answer: Yes. Oculus Quest 2 supports wired Oculus Link or wireless Oculus Air Link. It's worth noting that there are a lot of wired alternatives to Oculus Link and that Oculus Air Link is still in beta.Oculus Quest 2: Two ways to playLike the original Oculus Quest, Oculus Quest 2 supports wired Oculus Link. While you could pick up the official $80 Oculus Link cable, the best Oculus Link cable alternatives will cost significantly less. PCs without a USB Type-C port should consider one of those alternatives since the official cable is only USB Type-C. Wired Oculus Link on Quest 2 will provide users with the most consistent and likely the highest-quality audio and video since it's plugged directly into your PC via a USB cable. That means it's a dedicated connection that's purpose-built, even if the cable will occasionally get in the way.While the original Oculus Quest only supported wired Oculus Link, Oculus Quest 2 offers an additional wireless method known as Oculus Air Lin...

One UI 3.1 brings visual refinements and all the new features introduced in Android 11.With the Android 11 update, Samsung offered a visual overhaul to its UI in the form of One UI 3.0 and 3.1. One UI 3.0 debuted earlier this year for the Galaxy S20 series after being in beta for a few months, and with the introduction of the Galaxy S21 series, Samsung added a few new features and released the build as One UI 3.1.Samsung is doing a much better job with software updates over the last two years, and the result is that the best Samsung phones have already been updated to One UI 3.1. The UI offers new aesthetics and improved first-party apps and includes all the new features Google introduced in Android 11.So if you're already running One UI 3.1 or are considering buying a Samsung phone this year, here's what you need to know about all the new features in One UI 3.1.One UI 3.1 review:Android 11 changesAestheticsCamera tweaksBottom lineChangelog, May 2021Powerfully...

Get lost in these big worlds on a small screen.Role-playing games are wonderful, story-driven experiences that complement the mobile gaming experience nicely. Despite the relatively tiny mobile screens we're used to (yes, 5.7 inches is still small by gaming standards), RPGs allow us to get lost in fanciful worlds for a while. In the case of some games, especially those ported over from PC, that "while" could be 20, 30 hours, or even more! This makes the best RPGs worth their price in the Google Play Store.Unfortunately, like most game genres, there are some mobile duds. We've hand-picked the best of the best to save you the trouble of digging.If you're looking for more than just RPGs, be sure to check out our roundup of the best Android games out there!The gamesBattleChaser: NightWarFinal Fantasy Chrono TriggerEvoland 2Arcane Quest 3Crashlands Baldur's Gate and Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of AmnThe Bard's TalePocket MortysStar Wars: Knights of the Old RepublicDra...

Single-line, multi-monthMint MobileFrom $15/mo. at Mint MobileProsUnlimited talk and text on all plansT-Mobile network with 5G supportUpgrade plan at any timeHotspot on all plansInternational calling and textingConsMust buy in bulkNo multi-line perksSpeeds reduce after 35GB on unlimited planHotspot limited to 5GB on unlimited planMint Mobile offers great value to people who are willing to buy mobile phone service in bulk. With four data tiers in 4GB, 10GB, 15GB, or unlimited packages, Mint Mobile has a plan that should work for the majority of smartphone users powered by the T-Mobile network with LTE and 5G at no extra cost.Two big networksUS MobileFrom $3.50/mo. at US MobileProsT-Mobile or Verizon LTESave with a custom planEntertainment perks for three or more unlimited linesUp to 10GB international data with the unlimited planFast LTE speeds ConsCan't switch between networks Phone selection is limitedNo international calling...

May the 4th be with you, too, Google.What you need to knowGoogle Search commemorates May the 4th with a fun Easter egg.Google TV devices make it easy to binge-watch the entire film series in order.May the 4th is an annual celebration of Star Wars based on the phrase "May the force be with you."Not one to miss out on a cultural movement such as this, Google is partaking in May the 4th celebrations with a fun Easter egg. When you type Star Wars-related terms in the Google Search bar, you'll be met with Star Wars confetti falling from the top of your screen. It seems to work with several different terms, including "May the 4th," "R2-D2," "Lightsaber," etc. The Easter egg even appears when you enter these terms in the Google app on the best Android phones.Chromecast with Google TV owners are also getting in on some Star Wars goodies. Google has added a dedicated row of Star Wars content, which lets you watch all the movies and shows in chronological order (although it's debat...

Now it's up to developers to update their apps and games.What you need to knowOculus Quest 2 hand tracking has been upgraded from 30Hz to 60Hz, increasing performance by at least 10%.Developers will need to update their apps and games to take advantage of this new upgrade.The new high fidelity mode requires more GPU resources, though, so apps may need to be further optimized before the switch is flipped.Hand tracking is one of those really nifty things you can do on an Oculus Quest 2 but, because if its lack of consistency, you're not likely to stick with for too long. That might change just a bit today as developers begin to implement a brand new, higher-fidelity tracking mode that Facebook just introduced, which upgrades hand tracking from 30Hz to 60Hz. UploadVR noticed the change, which was published on the Oculus Developers Blog and includes instructions for developers who want to implement this new upgrade hand tracking method in their games and apps.Some of the orig...

Put on your thinking hat for these games!Smartphone touchscreen controls offer a unique opportunity for puzzle game developers. Our pocket devices are uniquely suited for clever puzzle games because they're easy to pick up and play whenever you have a few free moments. If you're looking for a game to test your brain, check some of these out.And when you're done here, be sure to check out our best games for Android!The gamesThe Room seriesMini MetroBridge Constructor PortalNYTimes - Crossword Threes!Twenty48 SolitaireMonument ValleyDissemblerTwo DotsPatternshocus.Brain It On!Hitman GOLara Croft GODeus Ex GOTotal Party KillVectronomTetrisThumper: Pocket EditionThe House of Da VinciTransmissionAll That Remains: Part IThe Eyes of AraHello NeighborChess LightTurn It On!I Love Hue & I Love Hue TooSamsara RoomThe Room seriesThe Room is a widely celebrated puzzle franchise developed by Fireproof Games for mobile. There are four games in th...

May the Force be with you always — on your phone!The Star Wars franchise has seen some great games come and go over the years. I'd like to take a moment to pour one out for Star Wars: Force Arena, a MOBA-style game that was shut down almost a year ago. It was easily the best Star Wars mobile game I've played, and it's a shame that it was not viable — or whatever the reason was why the developers had for shutting down the servers.I'll also note that this list does not include any AR-experiences or lightsaber simulators because, despite how cool they might be, they are novelties and not really games that you can get enjoyment out for any true length of time.I'll also briefly mention Star Wars: Card Trader, which is an app focused on collecting Star Wars cards like some of us used to do as kids. It's less a game than a collectathon with gamified elements. There's a community dedicated to buying, selling, trading, and so on.With all that out of the way, here are the best Star...

The Galaxy A82 5G is rumored to feature a QHD+ 120Hz display and a 64MP camera.What you need to knowThe unreleased Galaxy A82 5G has been listed on Samsung's security updates webpage.Surprisingly, the phone will only be eligible for quarterly security updates. It is rumored to be based on the recently launched Galaxy Quantum 2. Samsung recently announced a new mid-range Galaxy A series phone with a QHD+ 120Hz screen and a quantum cryptography chipset in South Korea. Even before the phone made its debut in South Korea, a rumor claimed Samsung working on a variant of the phone called Galaxy A82 5G for global markets.Even though the Galaxy A82 5G is yet to be announced, Samsung has added the phone to its security updates webpage, under models eligible for quarterly updates. Samsung's Galaxy A52 and A72 phones are currently on a monthly update schedule, so it is definitely strange that Samsung is planning to roll out quarterly security updates for the Galaxy A82 5G.While ...

Buying a new phone? Here's what you need to know about Samsung's 2021 Galaxy A series.The Galaxy A series forms the bedrock of Samsung's mid-range ambitions. The series offers features that were previously limited to Samsung flagships at a much more affordable price point. While the series was traditionally focused on the mid-range segment, Samsung got rid of the entry-level Galaxy J series in 2019 and folded these devices into the Galaxy A lineup.The result is that the Galaxy A series now starts off at under $150 thanks to devices like the Galaxy A02. While the budget Galaxy A options make it easier than ever to upgrade to one of the best cheap Samsung phones in 2021, the mid-range options like the Galaxy A52 and A52 5G offer exciting new features for those that want the latest screen tech and 5G connectivity.It can get confusing to pick the ideal device for your needs with eight models to choose from across various price points. So if you are looking to pick up a new phone in...

Twitter is planning a pivot into the content business.What you need to knowTwitter today purchased Scroll, a paid ad removal service aimed at readers who want to support sites without ads.The company is immediately pausing all new sign-ups to Scroll.In the future, Twitter plans to launch its own subscription service, and Scroll will form a part of that.Twitter today announced its latest purchase, Scroll, a platform aimed at helping users remove ads from websites. For a selection of websites, users would pay a monthly subscription to Scroll and have their ads removed while still supporting the creators. Scroll would pocket a little of what was paid and pass the rest on to the websites. Other than that, it would also provide "a blazing fast experience that loads with no ads, no dodgy trackers and no chumboxes of clickbait", and it's that reading experience that leads Twitter to snap it up.The company says that Scroll's reading experience is something they'd want for an upco...

Phrike is difficult, but not impossible.Roguelike bullet hell Returnal is not for the weak-willed or those looking for a casual gaming experience. Returnal is a gorgeous, fast-paced roguelike that will test the limits of a player's skill. While you guide Selene through the constantly shifting world of Atropos, you'll encounter five different bosses that are hellbent on stopping your progress. The first of these encounters happen in the Overgrown Ruins, where you'll encounter Phrike.If you're struggling to defeat Phrike, then you've come to the right place. Here's how to beat Phrike in Returnal.How to prepare for the fightReturnal is a roguelike, which means every time you die, you lose everything, and the level shifts into a different order. You'll may never encounter the same weapon, item, or health drop in the same place in the same order with each cycle. Even so, you can still find ways to prep.Find as much Silphium Resin as possible to increase your health bar, as wel...

A new adventure for the lovable duo.During Sony's PS5 showcase, Insomniac Games announced that a brand new Ratchet and Clank adventure would be on the way in the form of Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart. Despite the 2016 re-imagining of the original Ratchet and Clank game, it's been some time since we've seen a brand new entry in the iconic PlayStation franchise, and here's what we know about the latest entry that's joining one of many PlayStation 5 titles fans should be excited for.Pre-order nowRatchet and Clank: Rift Apart Launch Edition$70 at Amazon$70 at Best Buy$70 at GameStop$70 at WalmartBe ready to play on day one.The Launch Edition of Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart comes with none of the in-game upgrades that the Digital Deluxe Edition does, but it's still a great option for fans who just want to play the game.Jump to:What is Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart?Watch its trailersWhat's the story?What's gameplay like?Is it coming to PS4?When does it r...

Justice had joined Google at the beginning of 2019.What you need to knowJohn Justice, who served as VP and head of product at Stadia, has left Google.Justice's departure raises fresh concerns about the future of Google's Stadia division. Before joining Google in 2019, Justice worked for nearly fifteen years at Microsoft. Google's Stadia division, which is currently going through a rough patch, has suffered another big blow. According to a report from The Information, VP and head of product at Stadia, John Justice, has left Google.Justice had joined Google as VP in January 2019, following nearly fifteen years at Microsoft. Justice oversaw the consumer experience at Stadia. The executive hasn't updated his LinkedIn page yet, so it isn't clear what he plans to do next.Justice isn't the only senior executive to have left Google recently. Aparna Chennapragada, a product manager who had been in charge of Google's consumer shopping as well as AR and visual search products, lef...

Whether you're all-in on Alexa devices or just getting started with your first smart speaker, it's always worth checking out Amazon's latest Echo deals to see if you can make a saving.Right now, Amazon is offering some stellar discounts across a range of its first-party hardware including devices like the latest Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Show, and more. Prices have been slashed by as much as 50% there, though the deals won't last for long.Smart speaker options on sale include both the 3rd Gen Echo Dot and 4th Gen Echo Dot which start as low as $25. These speakers may be diminutive but still pack a punch when it comes to volume and smart capabilities, and their minute form factors make them ideal for, erm, dotting around your home.Another notable price drop in this sale is on the 4th Gen Amazon Echo. The latest full-size Echo has only been available since the fall but you can get one at a 30% discount right now. At $69.99, this is a match for its holiday 2020 pricing and probably the...

Could we get a Sunset Overdrive sequel on PS5?What you need to knowSony has apparently registered a trademark for Sunset Overdrive.Though the first Sunset Overdrive was Xbox exclusive, developer Insomniac retained the rights to the IP.PlayStation bought Insomniac in 2019, and has the ability to pursue any potential sequels.It's been seven years since Insomniac released Sunset Overdrive for the Xbox One, and the title may still live on at Sony according to a new trademark filed recently. Spotted by Nibel on Twitter, Sony registered the Sunset Overdrive trademark on April 26, 2021.Trademarks are registered and renewed all the time in the games industry, so this could mean nothing. Of course, this does lead to some fun speculation. Could this pave the way for a remastered version on PS5? Or perhaps a Sunset Overdrive sequel? It's hard to say until Sony comes out and reveals more details, but it's not out of the realm of possibility.Sony acquired Insomniac Games back in ...

Horror movies you don't want to miss on Hulu right nowIf you're in the mood for a good scare, Hulu is the place to go. Whether you want to stream your favorite classic horror film, check out a Hulu original, or find something spooky that you've never seen before, Hulu has options. Here's a roundup of some of the best horror on Hulu right now.Hulu originals and moreHuluFrom $6/mo at HuluFind your favorite horror flicks hereHulu gives subscribers access to an expansive media library of on-demand films and television series. Find the best in new and classic horror flicks — and more.The best horror films on HuluBlockbuster horror filmsSupernatural horror filmsBest thrillersHorror comedy filmsBlockbuster horror on HuluAs part of its horror collection, Hulu offers a ton of scream-worthy films that did big numbers at the box office. Here's a roundup of some of the biggest horror films on Hulu right now.Blair Witch (2016)The third film in the Blair ...

For years now, PlayStation fans who only owned a PC were stuck without the ability to experience some of the best PlayStation games. However, that's changed with PlayStation Now, a service that allows players to stream some of the best PlayStation games. The service recently opened up to the PC world, allowing players without a console to gain access to a ton of new games they may have never played.If you've just subscribed to PlayStation Now or are thinking about it, here's some of the best games to try out on your PC.Jump to:BloodborneMarvel's Avengers (available until July 5, 2021)The Last of Us The Uncharted SeriesBatman: Arkham TrilogyBorderlands 3 (available until Sept. 29, 2021)BloodborneFromSoftware is best known for its work on the Souls franchise, but Bloodborne might just be its best effort. Launching as a PlayStation 4 exclusive, Bloodborne brought the Souls style of combat to a gothic horror setting, which resulted in something truly incredible. ...

Time to Fold again.Last year was big for foldable smartphones — with Samsung leading the charge in more ways than one. The company debuted its Galaxy Z Flip lineup to tackle the vertical folding niche, and with the Galaxy Z Fold 2, Samsung gave us one of the very best foldables we've seen yet. As such, there's a lot of excitement and anticipation around the inevitable Galaxy Z Fold 3.The year-over-year improvements between the original Galaxy Fold and the Z Fold 2 are still kind of mind-blowing to this very day, so the idea of Samsung continuing to refine that formula is something we can't wait to see.From the latest hardware details to leaked renders and any other rumors we've tracked down, here's everything we know so far about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3.Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3:PriceAvailabilityDesignSpecsFAQSamsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 PriceAs jaw-dropping as the features and design of the Galaxy Z Fold lineup have been, that's only been outdone by price. M...

Battlegrounds Mobile will be 'customized' for the Indian market.What you need to knowPUBG Mobile could be relaunched in India as Battlegrounds Mobile.PUBG Mobile India's official Facebook page has been renamed Battlegrounds Mobile India. The popular mobile game was banned in the country in September last year, along with 117 other apps of Chinese origin. PUBG Mobile, which was banned in India in September last year, could soon relaunch in the country with a different name. PUBG Mobile India has renamed its official Facebook page to Battlegrounds Mobile India and posted a new banner photo with the same name. Although PUBG Mobile hasn't issued an official confirmation yet, the new evidence seemingly confirms the Indian version of the game will indeed be called Battlegrounds Mobile.PUBG Mobile India had reportedly also posted a short teaser for the game on its YouTube channel last month, but it was quickly pulled down. While the banner photo suggests Battlegrounds Mobile wil...

The new Garmin Venu 2 has arrived, which means it's time to start exploring some band options. You want your watch to be stylish as well as comfortable, after all. Fortunately, there are multiple options to pick from. Whether you're headed out for a jog or you've got a special occasion to attend, we've compiled the best Garmin Venu 2 and 2S bands for you to choose from. The Venu 2 is compatible with 22mm bands and the 2S is compatible with 18mm bands.Soft and comfyBarton Soft Silicone Garmin Venu 2 and 2S BandStaff PickGenerally speaking, fitness and outdoors enthusiasts will want something that's comfortable enough for all-day wear. These soft silicone bands from Barton might be a perfect fit. They're waterproof and washable so you'll never have to worry about an irritated or smelly wrist. The textured back prevents slipping and ensures maximum comfort.$15 at Amazon (22mm)$15 at Amazon (18mm)Premium qualityRitche Sailcloth Garmin Venu 2 and 2S BandRitche k...

Chatting with the AC forums.We've said it before, and we'll say it again: we love Android!One of the reasons why we love using the best Android phones is because of how we can customize them to make them our own. The popular and excellent series of Samsung Galaxy phones have their own way to personalize phones via the Galaxy Store and Samsung's own themes, but there is also the much underrated Good Lock app.Samsung's Good Lock allows Galaxy owners to customize pretty much the entire experience of using a Galaxy phone, from the theme, to the way notifications are displayed, to how they interact with system apps and elements like Bixby (remember Bixby?). In fact, Samsung just added the ability to make more customizable Bixby Routines from Good Lock.We want to hear from you — Have you ever tried Samsung's Good Lock? What do you use it for? Let us know!Join the conversation in the forums!...

It may seem complicated at first glance, but Google's note-taking app is essential.Google oversees many services that we all rely on every day, from Gmail to YouTube to the original Google Search. Among the dozens of apps that Google publishes and maintains, it's easy for some to get lost in the shuffle. But out of the plethora of apps under the G Suite umbrella, there's one that never seems to get the love it deserves, despite having worked so well for eight years now.Google Keep is much more than a note and to-do app. It replaces a half-dozen other apps for me and is one of the best Android apps on my phone — period. If you haven't given it a shot yet, here's why you should take the plunge.What is Google Keep?Google Keep is a note-taking app that's part of the Google Drive suite. You can take several different kinds of notes — including notes with images or doodles — and organize them with labels and colors. Notes can be scheduled to trigger at a time or when you vi...