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The company is ignoring some pleas while listening to others.What you need to knowJohn Carmack, Consulting CTO of Oculus, says that Facebook login requirements for the Oculus Quest 2 aren't going away.Carmack cites the company's dedication to privacy as the reason.Facebook has opened up a User Voice portal that will allow Oculus users to make requests and give feedback for platform improvement.John Carmack, Consulting CTO of Oculus, took to Twitter (via VR Focus) to explain that Facebook wouldn't be relaxing the requirement to log in with a Facebook account when using an Oculus Quest 2. This comes in response to several requests from users who don't want to have their Oculus usage tied to their Facebook account, the most concerning matter being what to do if your Facebook account gets banned. At the present time, it is impossible to use an Oculus Quest 2 without an active Facebook account.In the Tweet, found below, Carmack cites that Facebook "is extremely serious about p...

Top-grade video doorbellRing Video Doorbell Pro$250 at AmazonProsNo battery to rechargePre-roll videoSmaller size might be preferable in some casesAdjustable motion zonesPrivacy zonesConsWiring can be a deterrentPoor Google Assistant integrationMore expensiveThe Ring Video Doorbell Pro is still the best way to get the Ring experience. From the incredibly useful pre-roll video features to the convenience that comes from never having to charge a battery, the Ring Video Doorbell Pro is the single best Ring video doorbell you can buy. Its only real downside is that it has to be hard-wired to power, which could limit ownership for renters.Fantastic wireless choiceRing Video Doorbell 3$200 at AmazonProsNo wiring requiredA bit more affordableAdjustable motion zonesPrivacy zonesConsHave to recharge the battery from time-to-timeNo pre-rollPoor Google Assistant integrationRing Video Doorbell 3 is the third-generation wireless doorbell ...

The Samsung Galaxy lineup is the cream of the crop in the Android world, so if you're going to spring for the best phone, don't you want to deck it out with all of the best accessories? From cases to screen protectors, earbuds to chargers, we've compiled a list of the best Samsung Galaxy S21 accessories that will be a great fit for your phone, regardless of whether you opt for the S21, S21+, or S21 Ultra.Best Galaxy S21 case seriesArmadilloTek Vanguard SeriesStaff PickIt's hard to find a more dependable and indestructible case for your Galaxy S21, S21+, or S21 Ultra than the Vanguard. Not only does it offer military-grade impact protection, but it has a built-in kickstand, which is perfect for watching videos or engaging in hands-free video chats. Even though the case offers maximum protection, you can still use wireless charging pads and NFC payments without removing it. ArmadilloTek makes this case for all three Galaxy S21 sizes and offers them in black, orange, red, an...

College is exciting, crazy, and a little scary. The road has many twists and turns, bumps, hurdles, and a few slides along the way. Here are some of the best Android apps for college students and each will guide scholars through every part of their college career and propel them to conquer the world.Daily plannerEvernoteStaff PickWith this app, you can easily schedule your day with color-coded tasks, checklists, and reminders. It integrates with Google apps, including Google's calendar, and both syncs and works across devices. There is a place to enter and keep notes from classes, file scanned documents and clips from online articles.Get at Google PlayDiscount textbooksChegg BooksChegg lets you buy or rent textbooks — physical and ebooks — or up to 90 percent less than the campus bookstore. You can use the app to sell back books to earn a little extra money at the end of the semester. Other school supplies are also available for purchase through this app...

The Samsung Galaxy S21 is beautiful, distinct, and like the Galaxy S20 series that preceded it, has a small palette of colors to choose from depending on which size phone you get. The smallest of the three, the regular S21, has four colors, the S21+ has three, and the S21 Ultra only has two. This might over-simplify your choice depending on what size phone you're planning to pick up, but if you need help picking, I'm more than happy to oblige because some S21 colors are good, some S21 colors are bad, and others are just boring — and there's nothing worse than spending $1,000 on a boring phone.Majestic and mysteriousPhantom VioletStaff PickPurple phones are so easy to get wrong but it looks like Samsung got it perfectly right with Phantom Violet. The color is well balanced so it doesn't skew too blue or too pink, and you still get rose gold accents on the camera module, frame, and buttons to lend a softer, warmer air to its look. Phantom Violet is available for both th...

The PS5 is out now, and as fans try to buy the extremely in-demand system, one of the most crucial accessories many players will need is a headset. Not only does a headset enhance your gaming experience with its immersive qualities, but thanks to the variety of incredible multiplayer games available nowadays, you'll need something to interact with your friends or other players as well. Thankfully, there are tons of wireless options available out of the best PS5 headsets on the market.3D audioSteelSeries Arctis 7P for PlayStation 5Staff PickIt doesn't get much better than this. SteelSeries made a near perfect PS5 headset with the Arctis 7P, combining legendary comfort with sublime 3D audio capabilities and a long 24-hour battery life. It may be sold out at most retailers, but it's well worth the asking price should you find it in stock. There simply isn't a better headset for Sony's newest console, and once you pick this one up, you probably won't want to use another.$150 ...

Samsung's kicking off 2021 with a bang.There are some things in the mobile tech space that are a given every single year, one of which is that we get a new Samsung Galaxy S release pretty early on. That's no different for 2021, but rather than waiting until March or April like it usually does, Samsung's launching its next big flagship right now.The Samsung Galaxy S21 brings a mix of expected and drastic changes compared to last year's S20 family, including things like spec upgrades, a refreshed design, and all-new camera tech. Whether you're in the market for a price-conscious flagship or something that goes all-out, the S21 series has something for you.No matter if you're looking for pricing information, details on where you can buy the Galaxy S21, or anything else in between, here's everything you need to know!Killer flagshipSamsung Galaxy S21From $800 at SamsungMore phone, less moneyThe Galaxy S21 series has arrived, and for a lot of shoppers, the baseline S21 ...

Because there's no charger in the box this year, we've made sure to scour the internet to find you the best Samsung Galaxy S21 chargers out there. This year's phones are capable of up to 25W of wired charging, and having the proper charging brick as well as the best USB-C cable guarantees you the best experience when getting your phone ready for the day.Officially FastSamsung Adaptive 25W Fast ChargerStaff pickGoing with the official Samsung charger means your S21 series phone will get the full 25W of charging power. It also ensures your phone will safely and adequately charge as Samsung intended.$23 at AmazonPower to spareRAVPower 65W USB-C PD3.0 ChargerWhile Galaxy S21 devices can't take full advantage of the 65W PD available from this RAVPower charger, it doesn't hurt to have a wall adapter capable of powering your larger devices like a laptop or Chromebook.$30 at AmazonReliable powerAUKEY USB-C Charger with 27W Power Delivery 3.0Aukey makes...

When it comes to big screens, you'll want to keep them scratch-free, which is while you'll want to use the best Galaxy S21 Ultra screen protectors. The phone measures in at a whopping 6.8-inches, which means there's a lot of real estate that could get scratched. Luckily, there are already quite a few great options if you're looking for the best Galaxy S21 Ultra screen protectors to match up with your new phone.Forget the bubblesPULEN Tempered Glass (4-pack)Staff PickPULEN's Tempered Glass screen protectors give you everything you would want with 9H scratch resistance and HD retina clarity. The company includes two screen protectors for the front, along with two more for the rear camera module. And you can put any concerns about bubbles to bed thanks to the bubble-free adhesive used.$14 at AmazonOne of everythingAYCFIYING Glass Screen Protector (3-pack)The best Galaxy S21 Ultra screen protector is easily the AYCIFIYING Glass Screen Protector. The company prom...

Galaxy S21 UltraLatest and greatest$1,200 at SamsungProsExciting new designSnapdragon 888 has performance upgradesGorgeous AMOLED panel with dynamic refreshAndroid 11 out of the boxCompatible with S PenQuad cameras, larger batteryConsNo microSD slotHeavier than Note 20 UltraThe Galaxy S21 Ultra cranks things up to 11. It's faster than its predecessor, has better battery life, and you get a new AMOLED panel with dynamic refresh rate that goes from 11Hz to 120Hz. Combine that with quad cameras at the back, Android 11 out of the box, and compatibility with the S Pen stylus, and you have a stunning overall package.Galaxy Note 20 UltraStill going strong$1,200 at AmazonProsSublime 120Hz AMOLED displayStunning designBundled S PenSnapdragon 865+ with 5GUpdated to Android 11ConsFingerprint sensor isn't good enoughThe Galaxy Note 20 Ultra ticks all the right boxes: The design is gorgeous, the AMOLED panel is still one of the best around, and ...

What you need to knowThe Galaxy S21 series is finally official, going up for pre-order January 14 at 11AM EST and rolling out in the U.S. and other markets January 29.The S21 Ultra is the first device in the Galaxy S series to offer S Pen support, with separately sold compatible cases providing a way to store the S Pen when not in use.Samsung is offering up to $200 of in-store credit for pre-orders, along with up to $700 of trade-in credit and a free SmartTag tracker.Samsung's biggest design refresh in years.Never one to be shown up by events like CES 2021, Samsung has finally made its Galaxy S21 series official after months of leaks and rumors. As expected, the series consists of a trio of devices including the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra, with a renewed focus on camera performance and Samsung's biggest design overhaul in years.Samsung says that a major priority for the S21 series was bringing the company's renowned flagship experience to a more accessible price poin...

We've rounded up the best Samsung Galaxy S21+ cases that we could find because we know how important it is to keep your prized and expensive new smartphone safe and protected for its entire lifetime. Some of these cases offer maximum protection while others showcase that incredible Samsung style. When looking for a case from this list, consider the form factor, color, and thickness that works best for you.Three for oneGESMA Clear Case with Screen ProtectorsStaff PickThis case tops our list because not only does the case itself provide protection for your Galaxy S21+, but it also comes with two screen protectors to guard the gorgeous display. That's the kind of two-in-one (really three for one) value we can get behind! Plus, the clear military-grade case allows for the striking finishes of the S21+ to shine through.$14 at AmazonJust for kicksESR Metal Kickstand CaseThe beauty of a kickstand case is that it allows you to enjoy videos or join a video chat witho...

It's halfway through the school year! Whether your high school student is learning in the classroom, at home, or a hybrid of the two, there are several great Android apps that are designed to give your child the support they need to succeed. We chatted with a few teachers, school administrators, and fellow parents to find the most helpful apps that work on both Android cell phones and tablets. Here is a quick rundown of the best.Student PlannerEvernoteStaff PickEvernote is the most popular personal planner and note-taking app available. It syncs to all your devices, so if you update your calendar or add a notation from one device it will show up on all your others. With Evernote, your student can create daily, weekly, and monthly to-do lists, set reminders for when homework is due, and annotate scanned files, including PDFs. They can also highlight, clip, and save passages from online textbooks or websites.Get at Google PlayNote-takingSquidThis app keeps cla...

Tune-in from the comfort of your own home.What you need to knowSamsung's all-digital Unpacked event is today, January 14.We're expecting announcements for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy Buds Pro, and more.The livestream begins at 10:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM PT.Samsung's next Unpacked event is happening today, and as we see with every Unpacked, that means you can look forward to a heap of product announcements coming very soon. Lucky for you, tuning in to watch this latest Unpacked is going to be easier than ever before.As per usual, Samsung is livestreaming Unpacked from its own website and on its YouTube channel. Alternatively, you can just click on the video below and start watching right here.This year also sees Unpacked being broadcast on TikTok, Twitch, and Reddit, marking the first time an Unpacked event has ever been showcased on those platforms. You'll see the exact same thing no matter where you watch, but having the flexibility to stream on whichever platform you prefer...

The Mpow X5 hybrid active noise-cancelling true wireless earbuds have dropped to $39.99 when you use the code 5DO3T3KJ during checkout and clip the $10 off on-page coupon. You have to stack the discounts to save the most. The earbuds are $60 without these discounts, and they only dropped to that price in late December. Before that they were going for around $66. Direct price drops have never gone as low as today's deal.So the Mpow X5 have a hybrid active noise-cancellation system in place. This works by using an outward-facing mic on the earbuds to monitor the outside noises. An inward-facing mic monitors the ear canal. The earbuds then use an equal amount of anti-noise to eliminate the unnecessary stuff, and the two mics working together basically double the noise-cancelling effect. You get your music in an even more immersive way than other earbuds.You can also activate Transparency Mode when you do need to hear what's going on around you and don't want to remove the earbuds. T...

It could also support 120W wired fast charging.What you need to knowA new rumor claims Xiaomi's Mi 11 Pro will support 80W wireless charging speeds.It may also support identical 120W wired fast charging as last year's Mi 10 Ultra.The phone is expected to debut in China next month.Xiaomi, which unveiled the first Snapdragon 888-powered flagship phone last month, is expected to introduce another flagship device very soon. According to a new post on Weibo by Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station, the upcoming Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro will be the first phone to support 80W wireless charging speeds (via GSMArena).Xiaomi's 80W wireless fast charger, which was revealed by the company in October last year, can fully charge a 4000mAh battery in just 19 minutes. Currently, the fastest wireless charging phones are Xiaomi's Mi 10 Ultra and Mi 11.In addition to 80W wireless charging, the Mi 11 Pro is also expected to support 120W wired charging – just like the Mi 10 Ultra. The vanilla Mi 11 ...

HDR is absolutely key but setting it up isn't straightforward.If you've managed to snag a PS5, you're going to be able to experience games at a higher resolution and framerate than on the PS4, as well as enjoying benefits like faster load times thanks to the ultra-fast SSD. One of the most important factors in visual quality is HDR however, so setting the HDR appropriately is key to a great-looking game image on your TV, especially if you're playing some of the best PS5 games like Demon's Souls.With that said, enabling HDR can be quite tricky as the process isn't exactly the same depending on what brand of TV you're using. Every TV manufacturer has different standards for how to properly enable an HDR signal while playing games. Here's how to enable HDR on PS5 with some of the more popular TV models.Jump to:SamsungLGVizioSony BraviaPanasonicPhilipsTCLHow to enable HDR on PS5Power on your PS5. Go to Settings.Select Screen and Video.Select HDR.Set HDR t...

Dorsey said online speech can cause a lot of offline harm, driving Twitter's policy enforcement decisions.What you need to knowTwitter permanently suspended Donald Trump last week in the wake of an insurrection in the US Capitol.In a thread on the platform, CEO Jack Dorsey defended the decision. Saying he did not take pride in the action, he dubbed it a result of Twitter's failure to "promote healthy conversation".Last week, following an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, social media services moved to limit reach on the President's posts. While Trump faced bans from services as varied as Spotify and Shopify, the most tangible was the permanent suspension levied against his Twitter account. The President had been a high-profile user of the platform over the years, often using it to communicate to the world at large over traditional press conferences and drafted statements.Dorsey has taken to Twitter to defend the decision, one which has seen its fair share of critics. Some...

You can get a pair of refurbished Bose 700 noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones on sale for $239.99 through the Bose eBay store. The headphones are already discounted to $300 from a price of $379 for new versions like you'll find on Amazon, but then you can use code PAY20LESSCR to take another $60 off the price. The drop to $240 is a fantastic low price and one of the best we've ever seen.These are refurbished by Bose and the description says they've been professionally inspected, cleaned, and restored to like-new condition. The only issues will be cosmetic, and the audio will be just like a new set.I'm not kidding when I say the Bose 700 have some of the best noise-cancelling in the headphones market. The technology has 11 adjustable levels to help you personalize your sound to your environment. Need to hear a little bit more of what's going on around you? Adjust the noise-cancelling to include ambient noise. Just want to immerse yourself in your music? Tune it up and tune out ...

Cases are practically a necessity nowadays, and that remains true for those looking for the best Galaxy S20 FE cases. The Galaxy S20 FE might be a great way for Samsung to own the mid-range phone market, as it has all the specs you could want with a sleek design and more color options than you can shake a stick at. Once you find the right case and one of the best Galaxy S20 FE screen protectors, you'll be right as rain and ready to do everything.3D effectsCaseology ParallaxStaff PickThe Caseology Parallax is one of those cases that have become a favorite for many. The unique 3D design on the back improves grip and ergonomics, while the rest of the case gives you the protection you need. Caseology also ensures this case can be used with many of the best Galaxy S20 FE screen protectors while maintaining support for wireless charging.$16 at Amazon$19 at WalmartThe classicSpigen Rugged ArmorFor years, Spigen has reigned supreme as one of the best case makers, t...

In the wake of the Capitol insurrection, social media companies have sought to limit the U.S. President's reach.What you need to knowSnapchat has joined other major social media companies in banning President Trump.The president had been accused of using his social media presence to incite violence.Snapchat had previously suspended him indefinitely but decided to ban him in view of his long term conduct. The social media backlash against President Trump following the 2021 storming of the United States Capitol continues this week as Snapchat has now banned the President's account permanently. Previously, it was suspended indefinitely.Speaking to CNN, a a Snap spokesperson said: Last week we announced an indefinite suspension of President Trump's Snapchat (SNAP) account, and have been assessing what long term action is in the best interest of our Snapchat community. In the interest of public safety, and based on his attempts to spread misinformation, hate speech, and in...

YouTube's new health partnerships team wants to "make public health truly PUBLIC."What you need to knowYouTube has unveiled a new health partnerships team to make high-quality content available on its platform.The team will be led by Dr. Garth Graham, who was previously the chief community health officer at CVS Health. The new team is working on making it easier for users to find medical information from trusted organizations and clinicians in healthcare. YouTube has unveiled a new health partnerships team to further its efforts to make quality health content from authoritative sources easily accessible on its platform. The new team will be led by Dr. Garth Graham, who worked as Chief Community Health Officer at CVS Health and as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under the Obama and Bush administrations.In order to make authoritative health content available for users around the world, YouTube is partnering with the American Pu...

Last-minute leaks show a cheaper phone than expected.What you need to knowSamsung's UK pricing for the S21-series has just leaked ahead of the launch later today.The company's 2021 flagships will start at £769 for the regular S21, with the S21 Ultra setting you back at least £1,149.Pricing for the Galaxy Buds Pro and Galaxy Smart Tags have also been leaked.Samsung is holding its Unpacked event today at 10 am ET. The company is expected to launch the Galaxy S21, Galaxy Buds Pro, and Galaxy Smart Tags there. Even as enormous leaks have revealed almost everything Samsung will likely advertise as unique selling points, new details continue to trickle out in the lead up to the event.A new report from leaker Ishan Agarwal reveals the UK pricing of the upcoming flagships. The base 128GB Galaxy S21 is said to cost £769, with the 256GB model setting you back £819. The Galaxy S21 will start at £949, while the 256GB will be just shy of a grand at £999. The S21 Ultra is predict...

Google says customers and government agencies flagged these apps.What you need to knowGoogle today removed several personal loan apps from the Google Play Store in India.The company cited reports of predatory lending as lenders targeted vulnerable customers.Google says it has requested other apps to demonstrate compliance with Play Store and local regulations or be removed from the store. While the Indian smartphone market continues to thrive with a variety of inexpensive and powerful Android smartphones, the proliferation of smartphones provides a large target audience for unscrupulous app developers. Google is removing predatory lending apps that take aim at the most vulnerable customers from the Indian Play Store. As reported by TechCrunch, the company is doing this in response to reports from both users and government agencies. Both groups flagged hundreds of apps to Google as falling afoul of local policies, and the company took action subsequently.Google told TechCr...

Samsung Display's under-display camera tech will be used in notebooks first.What you need to knowSamsung Display has teased its under-display camera technology.Surprisingly, the tech will be coming to notebooks first.The tech is likely to make its way to Galaxy phones eventually. In September last year, ZTE unveiled the world's first phone with an under-display camera. While the ZTE Axon 20 5G is currently the only phone with an under-display selfie camera, the tech is expected to become slightly more common by the end of this year. Samsung, which has been rumored to be working on under-display camera tech for a long time now, is also rumored to launch its first under-display camera phone this year.Although Samsung hasn't detailed its under-display camera technology yet, Samsung Display today posted a video on Weibo, teasing its new OLED panels with under-display selfie cameras. However, Samsung Display's new under-display tech isn't meant for use in smartphones. It will...

You'll soon be able to play multiplayer games across two headsets after purchasing it just once — but there are some restrictions.What you need to knowOn the Oculus Developer blog, the company said all Quest store apps would have App Sharing enabled by default on February 13, 2021.Primary Quest 2 accounts can share purchased content to secondary accounts on the same headset, or to up to two other Oculus headsets.Secondary accounts must be associated with a Facebook account to take advantage of app sharing.One of the consistently frustrating aspects of owning an Oculus Quest 2 or Quest 1 is that you can only have one Quest account per headset. That means that if your young child wants to play with it, you can't set up a secondary account with parental controls and a limited library that removes mature games. It's safe for kids to play VR games if you're careful, but Oculus doesn't make it easy to be careful.Thankfully, Oculus has signalled that it will finally let you ad...

Your interactions with Google Assistant will not be saved when Guest Mode is turned on.What you need to knowGoogle Assistant is getting a new Guest Mode for privacy-conscious users.When it's turned on, the virtual assistant will not save any of its interactions with you.Turning it on and off is as simple as a single voice command.Google this week announced a new Guest Mode for its virtual assistant that's designed with privacy-conscious folks in mind. A simple "Hey Google, turn on Guest Mode" will ensure that none of your interactions with Google Assistant are collected by the company and nor will they be used to 'personalize your experience' — often an indirect way of referring to targeted ads.When it's on, the Assistant will play a special chime to let you know. Smart displays with Assistant will also show a guest icon on the screen. And you can always check for yourself by saying, "Hey Google, is Guest Mode on?"Even with Guest Mode on, you can still do most of the ...

England kick off a packed 12 months of Test cricket this first of a two-match series against Sri Lanka - watch every ball with our live stream guide below.The matches mark England's second away series in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship, with Joe Root's men looking to replicate their last tour of Sri Lanka, which saw them whitewash their hosts 3-0 back in November 2018.The home side comes into this series off the back of a 2-0 defeat to South Africa, but that result masks the fact that the Lions performed really well, having been beset with injuries throughout.Perhaps more importantly for the hosts, that series eased the Lions back into action, having not played a long-form match in over a year.Having played all summer, England won't have the excuse of being rusty here, but they will nevertheless face Sri Lanka with some notable absentees.All-rounder Moeen Ali is set to be unavailable for both matches after testing positive for Covid-19 on arrival in Sri Lanka, wh...

ASUS has launched a trio of powerful new Chromebooks with a focus on work and gaming.What you need to knowThe new ASUS Chromebook CX9 and Flip CX5 are work-oriented laptops powered by 11th gen Intel processors.The Chromebook Flip CM5 is a gaming-oriented laptop powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 processor.Pricing and availability is not yet available for the new Chromebooks.A few Chromebooks have been announced so far at CES 2021, such as the new Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2, and the Acer Chromebook Spin 514. ASUS has just announced a trio of powerful new Chromebooks, powered by Intel's latest 11th gen processors and even a gaming-oriented machine with an AMD Ryzen processor.The first new laptop is the ASUS Chromebook CX9, which is a work-oriented machine. It features a sleek design with plenty of power under the hood. There are options for Intel's 11th gen Core i5 or i7 processors with Xe graphics, which is more than enough for Chromebook devices that rely largely on cloud com...

The unpopular opinion: Exynos chips only exist so Samsung can save a lot of money.The Exynos 2100 looks to be Samsung's best mobile chip yet.It features ARM's Cortex-X1 core with three other Cortex-A78 cores and four less power-hungry A55 cores to play nice with your battery. It also has ARM's Mali-G78 GPU for 40% better graphics than the last generation, a tri-core NPU for better on-device AI, is 5G-ready (both Sub-6GHz and mmWave), and is built on Samsung's 5nm process tech to save even more battery.Expect to see it in all of Samsung's best phones — including the imminent Galaxy S21 — throughout 2021. In a world where nobody bothered to care about the chip inside their phone and how much better one specific brand can be than everything else, this would be great and everyone would be satisfied.Here's the thing though. We do care that one brand of chip has marginally better AI reaction times, takes better photos, has better 3D graphics, gets better battery life, and kicks...

Google is investigating worldwide issues with its Android Exposure Notifications System.What you need to knowGoogle is investigating a worldwide outage affecting its contact tracing technology.Its Android Exposure Notifications System is down, causing apps to load slowly and preventing contact tracing. Google says it has rolled out a fix for this issue.Update, January 13 (09:25 am ET) In an update, Google has confirmed that its Android Exposure Notifications System is experiencing issues affecting Android Apps Worldwide.Update, January 13 (03:10 pm ET) Google says a fix has been deployed, though not everyone may see it immediately.Many Android users in the UK are reporting a glitch with the NHS COVID-19 app this morning, causing it to show a permanent "Loading..." notification that can't be dismissed. Restarting or force-closing the app, or rebooting your phone doesn't fix the problem.NHS COVID-19 is the official contact tracing app for England and Wales, and uses App...

The Polk Audio MagniFi 2 sound bar with wireless subwoofer is down to $399 right now at Amazon. This sound bar normally sells for $499, and it first dropped to $399 back in mid-December. Since the new year it has jumped back up to its regular price, so if you missed the first drop now is your chance. The sound bar might not last that long this low considering how new it is. You can also find this deal at some other retailers like Best Buy.This sound bar is capable of creating 3D audio like what you'd hear in a theater thanks to the wireless subwoofer. It can create virtual height effects and deliver room-filling sound that's very immersive. The sound bar is powered by six powerful drivers and produces multi-dimensional dynamic surround sound. It also has very specific controls for getting the audio just right. For example, you can adjust voice levels to maximize sound clarity and minimize voice delays and muzzled sounds.Google Chromecast is built into the sound bar, too. You can ...

The Galaxy S21's "custom colors" could be coming when the phones launch.Update, January 13 (2:00 pm ET): 'Custom colors' for the Galaxy S21 smartphones will be made on-demand.What you need to knowA new leak shows off some interesting new colors for the upcoming Galaxy S21 series.The new colors could be regional variants or exclusive to certain memory configurations.The Galaxy S21 smartphones will be launched on January 14th.The Samsung Galaxy S21 smartphones will be launched in just a couple of days but that doesn't mean that the leaks will stop. We've already seen some color variants of the new smartphones, but Roland Quandt from WinFuture has just posted a new collection of photos that show off come "custom" color variants. Some of the color variants match with what we've already seen, but the images show off some new ones. The Galaxy S21+ seems to be getting a new red variant to go with the black, bronze, light blue, and dual-tone purple colors. As for the Gala...

Despite already being out for almost two years, the Moto G7 Plus remains an impressive handset. The device sports improved cameras, stereo speakers, and even faster 27W charging. But to keep it in pristine condition, whether you're hanging on to one you bought when it was new or picking one up for a good deal, you'll need a solid protective case. What are the best Moto G7 Plus cases? We've got some of our favorites here.Trusted brandSpigen Rugged ArmorStaff PickSpigen is one of the the most trusted and reliable smartphone case brands out there, and the Rugged Armor line is a popular one. This case has a flexible TPU shell, along with Spigen's own Air Cushion Technology for the best shock absorption.$12 at AmazonShow offSPARIN Clear TPU CaseWhy wouldn't you want to show off your shiny Moto G7 Plus? We don't know either, but the SPARIN Clear TPU case is perfect as it shows off your device while keeping it protected. There is a 1mm raised edge on around the display a...

Disney+Coming for the crown$7/month or $70/year at Disney+ProsExclusive streaming of most Disney and Marvel contentAffordable pricing and bundlesMore family-friendly account structuringConsLess adult content (for now)Premier Access purchases cost $30 on top of the regular monthly subscription feeLegacy licensing contracts prevent availability of some content Disney Plus offers an unparalleled selection of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and beyond. With several new original series already set to premiere and the impending launch of the Star brand and Star Plus app for international audiences in 2021, Disney Plus may be the service to beat. So when it comes to Disney Plus vs. Netflix, which should you subscribe to?NetflixThe original streamerFrom $9/mo at NetflixProsWider, more varied content libraryExclusive original series and filmsLarger selection of adult and international contentConsMore expensive for multiple streams an...

Samsung is set to launch two new wireless chargers.What you need to knowImages have leaked of a new Wireless Charger Duo Pad.The new charging pad is said to offer just 9W charging for phones.Both charging pads will likely support Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Buds Pro and Galaxy Tags.Just a day before the Galaxy Unpacked event where the trio of Samsung Galaxy S21 smartphones are set to be announced, images of some upcoming accessories have been spotted online. Both devices are wireless charging pads, the first being a single device charger and the second looks to be a follow-up to the Wireless Charger Duo Pad.Samsung Wireless Charger EP-P1300. 9W Fast Wireless Charging. 7W Apple Wireless Charging. pic.twitter.com/CQ7OFYit9z— Roland Quandt (@rquandt) January 13, 2021The first charging pad, which carries the model number EP-P1300, is meant for just one device at a time. According to Quandt, it will provide 9W "fast" wireless charging for Samsung devices like the Galaxy S...

The Ultimate Ears Megablast portable Bluetooth speaker is a paltry $143 on Amazon. This speaker normally goes for around $180 or more, and it hasn't dropped anywhere near this low since the beginning of 2020. You can still find the Megablast going for as much as $230 at other retailers like Best Buy.The Megablast by Ultimate Ears delivers the ultimate sound. It has speakers in 360 degrees around the device so no matter where you place it, you'll be able to hear your music. Put the speaker right in the middle of the party and entertain everyone. It's rich, clear, and pumps out chest-thumping bass.The battery can last for up to 12 hours as well, so it's not going to cut out during most events. You can easily just recharge over night and be ready for the next day.With Amazon Alexa built right in, you have a lot more flexibility on how to control the speaker, too. Alexa basically gives you hands-free voice control. Just ask Alexa to play music from any of your favorite apps like Sp...

What you need to knowRing today announced the launch of end-to-end encryption for its cameras.The feature will first launch as a technical preview on eight Ring products.The company first promised the feature back in September.Amazon-owned home security firm Ring is making good on its promise from September last year and finally rolling out a technical preview for end-to-end encryption on its security cameras.The company has been mired in controversy over the years. Its employees were, in a 2019 report, found to have unfettered access to users' video streams for years, with the company's execs justifying the lack of encryption because "encryption would make the company less valuable."In the same year, Ring's Neighbors platform was found to be secretly sharing GPS coordinates, which could be a serious privacy hazard.End-to-end encryption should, therefore, be a welcome addition for privacy-conscious users, as it will prevent Ring from having the ability to tune into your...

Samsung wants to attract younger viewers with TikTok.What you need to knowSamsung is launching the S21 this week at a virtual Unpacked event.It will make the stream available on TikTok, Twitch, and Reddit for the first time.Samsung's Unpacked event is scheduled for January 14 at 10 a.m eastern, Samsung is launching the Galaxy S21 this week at Unpacked, but you won't have to be using YouTube to see it. The company shared to Android Police this week that it will live-stream the launch on multiple venues, including TikTok, Twitch, and Reddit.Alongside YouTube and Samsung's own website, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to watching the reveal.Samsung's Galaxy S21 is set to launch tomorrow alongside the S21+ and S21 Ultra. All three phones in the series will ship with 5G, powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processors, and flexible camera setups. They'll be some of the best Android phones of 2021. As such, they'll also be a little pricy, but Samsung phones often range i...

To run a successful business, you have to know how to sell. The Ultimate Sales Master Class Bundle helps you convert more leads, with 17 hours of expert tips. You can get the training today for just $29.99.No matter what you are offering, a good sales pitch can be the difference between profit and failure. This bundle helps you hone your sales craft, both for in-person and online clients.The line-up includes seven courses in total, covering a wide range of skills and techniques. The bundle is based around BLITZSALES, a complete framework for sales.Through seven hours of video tutorials, you discover how to generate more leads, choose the right tone, and qualify your claims with research.Other courses in the bundle focus on individual topics, including body language, personality development, and corporate-style pitching. You also learn about brand marketing, account management, and more.Your instructor is Stefan Devito, a serial entrepreneur who now specializes in coaching othe...

Nest makes some of the best smart thermostats, security cameras, and self-installed home security systems out there, but it comes at a price. Some of the equipment can be on the expensive side, which means that you may not be able to have as much of it in your home as you'd like, but we are here to help make it easier to afford more. At times, you can find some pretty sweet deals on a variety of Nest's most popular items.Best Google Nest Deals Available NowNest Thermostats: from $123Nest Wi-Fi: as low as $149Nest Cameras: from $180Smart Speakers & Displays: starting at $25Google Nest Mini + Smart Plug bundle | $29.99 at Lowe'sBundle the Google Nest Mini with a smart plug for only $30 at Lowe's. This exclusive bundle can't be found anywhere else and is currently discounted by $35 through the middle of January!$29.99 at Lowe'sWhether it's a direct price drop, coupon code, or bundle deal, we've scoured the internet to find all of the best deals around Nest's...

Magical adventures will be waiting next year.What you need to knowHogwarts Legacy is an upcoming role-playing game being developed by Avalanche and published by WB Games.It's set in the late 1800s, where players take on the role of an older student at Hogwarts.Originally scheduled to release in 2021, Hogwarts Legacy is delayed to 2022.Hogwarts Legacy is a role-playing game set in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It's being developed by Avalanche and published by WB Games as part of the Portkey Games label. While it was originally set to release in 2021, fans will be waiting a while longer to get their wands out however, as Hogwarts Legacy is delayed to 2022. In a statement on Twitter, the developers explained that more time is needed to deliver the "best possible experience." "We would like to thank fans from around the world on the tremendous reaction to the announcement of Hogwarts Legacy from our Portkey Games label. Creating the best possible experience for all ...

More bang for your buckArlo Essential$99 at Amazon$99 at Best Buy$130 at The Home DepotProsColor night vision with built-in spotlightNo hub neededUp to six months battery lifeNoise and echo cancellationPeople, package, animal, and vehicle detectionSupport for 2TB local storageConsMore expensiveAdvanced detection requires a subscriptionWhile it costs a bit more, Arlo Essential provides the essential experience for smart home security cameras. While it's not as inexpensive as Wyze Outdoor, it's still less expensive than many other options on the market, and still doesn't skimp on important features like advanced motion detection, color night vision, and automated track and zoom.Smart price, brilliant decisionWyze OutdoorFrom $47 at Amazon$60 at Walmart (starter kit)$70 at The Home Depot (starter kit)ProsVery low priceFree local and cloud storageUp to six months battery lifeConsHub requiredLower video frameratePeople detection r...

Samsung's cheap 5G phone debuts with the company's 2021 design language.What you need to knowSamsung today announced the Galaxy A32 5G.It's a 5G phone that's aimed at the lower-end of the market.Samsung has yet to give pricing or availability.Samsung today rolled out the first Galaxy A-series phone that's built with the same design language we'll find on the S21. It will likely double as one of the cheapest 5G Phones Samsung currently sells. Dubbed the Galaxy A32 5G, Samsung quietly announced it this morning via an infographic showing off the specs. As far as good points go, it has a quad-camera layout with a main 48MP camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and the macro and depth lens you normally find on midrangers. There are also options of up to 8GB of RAM paired with a healthy 128GB of internal storage and MicroSD support. , there's a 5,000 mAh battery with 15W fast charging.On the negative side, Samsung is giving this screen a 6.5-inch HD+ display. At a time when Fi...

The Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro true wireless earbuds are a mouthful to say, but they are also on sale for $99.99 when you use the code LIBERTY30US during checkout. That knocks $30 off the regular price and marks the first and only deal we've seen on this earbuds. I mean, they are so new they only released on Amazon yesterday, so that explains why there haven't been a lot of sales. You get a brand new pair of headphones with the latest Anker tech, and you get to save a chunk as well! The earbuds come in four available colors: Black, White, Blue, and Pink. The code should work on all of them.Though Anker has made some of the best wireless earbuds in the past, the Liberty Air 2 Pro make some significant improvements in key areas.The new earbuds feature targeted active noise-cancelling meaning you can use the free Soundcore app on your smartphone to choose from different scenarios based on where you are and what you're doing. The earbuds will then make the ambient noise disapp...

Returnal is shaping up to be a really cool game set to launch this year.What you need to knowReturnal is an upcoming psychological horror game set on a hostile alien planet.It is being developed by Housemarque and will be exclusive to PS5.It is set to launch on March 19, 2021 at the moment.A new trailer released showcases its combat aiming to "blend a unique mix of game styles."The PS5 has a number of exclusives set to release on the console this year, including a new sci-fi psychological horror game from Housemarque. Returnal stars space pilot Selene, stranded on an alien planet and stuck in a time loop. In its latest trailer that the developer released, players got a better look at its combat and what weapons they'll have to defend themselves against the planet's threats.Housemarque is touting that Returnal will feature "fast and frenetic combat and intense gunplay, and also some rich exploration." To aid in this, Selene will have multiple weapons at her disposal, ...

The new Moto G Power is one of the best budget Android phones around, so it only makes sense to protect yours with one of the best Moto G Power (2021) cases. You just might be surprised how many good options there are to keep your battery champion safe from drops and scratches. Whether you prefer something minimalistic, something practical, or something with a bit more personality, there is a Moto G Power case for you.Old reliableSpigen Rugged Armor CaseStaff PickSpigen has a reputation for making affordable, minimalistic, and protective cases, and that's exactly what you get with the Rugged Armor offering. Comprised of a combination of flexible TPU and rugged carbon fiber, you can rest assured that your Moto G Power (2021) will be safe from most drops and dings. Plus, it's lightweight, slim, and grippable.$13 at AmazonTough as nailsUrban Armor Gear CaseWhile the Spigen will definitely take care of your phone, the Urban Armor Gear series is the way to go if ...

Stay informed if you're in the market.What you need to knowThe PS5 is available in many countries worldwide and is set to launch in India on February 2.Finding the PS5 in stock in India is continuing to be difficult.A bot designed by Shantanu Goel can be used to see when the PS5 is in stock at Amazon India.While the PS5 is available in many countries worldwide, it's not yet launched in India, where it's set to release on February 2. Getting ahold of a preorder in India is proving remarkably challenging as stock remains in short supply around the world. If you're worried about possibly missing a restock at retailers like Amazon, worry no longer.As discovered by IGN India, your chances of getting a console will go up if you use a special bot on Telegram, designed by Shantanu Goel. Goel's bot will send you messages the moment PS5 is back in stock at Amazon India. Support is also coming for Flipkart relatively soon.Once you're able to get ahold of a PS5, you'll have access ...

Qualcomm says it will integrate NUVIA CPUs with Snapdragon to take computing performance to a new level.What you need to knowQualcomm Technologies is acquiring chip startup NUVIA for $1.8 billion.The startup was founded by three of Apple's former top semiconductor executives.Qualcomm plans to integrate NUVIA CPUs across its portfolio of products. Qualcomm today announced that it has acquired chip startup NUVIA in a $1.8 billion cash deal. The chipmaker expects the NUVIA acquisition to help it cement its Snapdragon technology leadership and continue to deliver significant improvements in CPU performance and power efficiency for next-gen 5G computing.Cristiano Amon, President and CEO-Elect, Qualcomm, said in a statement: 5G, the convergence of computing and mobile architectures, and the expansion of mobile technologies into other industries are significant opportunities for Qualcomm. The NUVIA team are proven innovators, and like Qualcomm, have a strong heritage in crea...

Unique and compactAmazfit GTS 2$180 at AmazonProsHeart rate, blood oxygen monitoringBuilt-in GPSVoice assistant, mic, and speakerMusic storageLightweight designConsShorter battery lifeLower-resolution displayZepp app is a learning curveIt might look like an Apple Watch, but the Amazfit GTS is much more affordable. This fitness smartwatch offers GPS, activity/sleep tracking, heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, voice assistant, music storage, and more. Plus, the lightweight design is perfect for fitness enthusiasts.More traditional designAmazfit GTR 2$180 at AmazonProsHeart rate, blood oxygen monitoringBuilt-in GPSVoice assistant, mic & speakerMusic storageTwo-week battery lifeConsZepp app is a learning curveNot as lightweight as GTS 2The Amazfit GTR 2 takes a more traditional design approach with its circular face, which offers a higher-resolution display. You also get GPS, heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, activ...