Latest from Android Central

What you need to knowBoost Mobile customers will be able to sign up for exclusive DraftKings contests where it is legal to do so.Boost is offering new customers a free $50 Sportsbook bet to new users placing their first bets.This integration starts with an NBA Finals contest on June 11 and end at the start of the Finals.Boost Mobile announced a partnership with DraftKings to bring exclusive contests to Boost Mobile customers. Boost Mobile's owner DISH partnered with DraftKings in early March 2021 to bring betting to its Hopper TV platform. Boost Mobile customers will be able to sign up for exclusive contests starting with a $100,000 NBA Finals contest with users guessing the total number of points scored throughout the series. This contest starts on June 11 and ends at the start of the Finals on July 8.Speaking to CNET executive vice president of Boost Mobile, Stephen Stokols said: "We try to go where the big carriers are too conservative to go. I don't think you'll see...

Taking everything we loved from Horizon Zero Dawn and somehow making it better.What you need to knowA new State of Play debuted gameplay footage from Horizon Forbidden West running on PS5.In the gameplay, we saw Aloy save her friend Erend from a band of rival raiders, showcasing new weapons and traversal options.Horizon Forbidden West is expected to launch on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.Just a couple of weeks before E3, Sony's latest State of Play showcased Horizon Forbidden West gameplay on PS5. If you thought Horizon Zero Dawn looked good, you're about to be blown away by what Forbidden West has in-store. Developer Guerrilla Games has been teasing the game all day and revealed some new machines and locations fans can look forward to.The trailer showcased a band of raiders and several machines that gave chase to Aloy. Eventually she made she way underwater and swam to a seemingly safe area before a gigantic mechanical beast resembling a mammoth, called a Tremortusk, ...

There are a lot of cheap tablets out there, but only a few are worthy of being called the best cheap Android tablets. The Android tablet market, on the whole, is a bit of a mess once you look outside of Amazon or Samsung, but there are some solid and viable options if you want to spend less than $300. We've rounded up some of our favorites, and while they vary in features and uses, all of the best cheap Android tablets are worthy of claiming the title of being your next couch tablet.Best cheap Android tablet overall: Samsung Galaxy Tab A7It's no surprise that Samsung offers the best cheap Android tablet, as the company provides options for every corner of the Android market. Even with newer tablets like the Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+, the Galaxy Tab A7 is no slouch and includes many features you will want.Starting off with the design, this is a slim aluminum slab with glass on the front, which makes for quite a gorgeous form factor. With the Galaxy Tab A7, Samsung made the decisio...

The Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds have something to prove.What you need to knowMore details about the upcoming Sony WF-1000XM4 have emerged.The earbuds will reportedly feature up to 24 hours of battery life with ANC on, 36 hours without ANC.LDAC, Hi-Res Audio, and Precise Voice Pickup will be supported.The Sony WF-1000XM4 are rumored to retail in Europe "soon" for €280.The Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds are expected to launch soon, and more details of the successor to one to the best wireless earbuds have just been revealed.According to WinFuture, the upcoming Sony earbuds will feature a whopping 24 hours of total battery life with ANC turned on. That's eight hours per charge from the case, extending to 12 with ANC turned off and a total of 36 hours.Those numbers are quite a bit higher than the Sony WF-1000XM3 wireless earbuds, which feature fantastic battery life but only manages up to a total of 24 hours. It's also notably higher than the five and eight respective hours provide...

The Luna library continues to grow.What you need to knowLuna+ adds three new titles to its subscription service: Yakuza 0, The Falconeer, and Killer Queen Black.Amazon Luna is currently in beta, and you must request an invitation to check out the service.Luna+ costs $5.99 a month.The fledgling cloud-based gaming platform, Amazon Luna, just added a trio of games to its growing library. Yakuza 0, The Falconeer, and Killer Queen Black will join the service this June.All three games are worth getting excited about: Yakuza 0 is the origin of the Yakuza series and a mature action-adventure that has players navigate the glitz and grime of crime in Japan during the 80s as Kiryu Kazuma and Goro Majima. The Falconeer is an open-world air combat game where you pilot a giant bird in high-stakes fantasy battles, and Killer Queen Black is an online multiplayer version of the popular team-based arcade game.This announcement comes hot on the tail of today's Sonic Central presentation, ...

Whether you're leery of Google's data collection practices, fed up with Nest Wifi's lack of advanced functionality, or simply browsing the market for something better, we've rounded up some of the best alternatives to Nest Wifi. Check them out below — there should be something for everyone!Best overallEero 6 3-packStaff PickEero 6 is a replacement for the standard Eero taking wireless speeds up to AX1800 with a supported Wi-Fi 6 device. This also means the link between Eeros is stronger which, according to Eero, makes an Eero 6 mesh suitable for internet connections up to 500Mbps. Eero also has one of the best setup and management apps around with frequent security updates and amazing compatibility with older nodes.$280 at Dell$279 at Amazon$279 at Best BuyPremium and powerfulNetgear Orbi RBK752Netgear has been in the home networking game for a long time, and it shows. With Wi-Fi 6 support and a fast AX4200 tri-band connection, this system should be ab...

Whether you have had your Google Pixel 3 XL for years or just managed to pick one up today, you should really grab yourself one of the best Pixel 3 XL cases (or three) to keep your phone safe when you're out in the big, cruel world — or when you're bumbling around your apartment at 2 a.m. like a half-blind, half-asleep idiot. Whatever the scenario, protect your phone and show off your style with one of the best Pixel 3 XL cases that are offer style and durability.Ruggedly handsomeSpigen Rugged ArmorStaff Pick$12 at AmazonSpigen's Rugged Armor has been one of our go-to cases for years: it feels great in hand and protects your phone as well as many dual-layer cases would.The X factorRingke Fusion-X$12 at AmazonFrom $12 at WalmartThis big brother of the Fusion features a beefier bumper and reinforced corners for extra protection, and the translucent red version is so lovely.Armored protectionSUPCASE Full-Body Rugged Holster Case Unicorn Beetle Pro Series...

The OnePlus Nord N100 was overshadowed by its 5G-touting counterpart, but that could change this time around.What you need to knowOnePlus has teased the launch of its next budget 5G smartphone.The OnePlus Nord N200 will feature 5G connectivity, something that was missing on its predecessor.OnePlus says to "stay tuned" for more information on the launch date.OnePlus teased the launch of the latest Nord N smartphone for the U.S. The OnePlus Nord N200 5G is expected to be the company's most affordable 5G smartphone, following after the budget OnePlus Nord N100.OnePlus CEO Pete Lau did not divulge any details about the device, only that the company "is committed to making the 5G experience more accessible than ever." The current OnePlus Nord N100 sits under the OnePlus Nord N10 5G and is currently the company's cheapest model, although it does not feature 5G connectivity. Assuming OnePlus doesn't jack up the price much, its successor could become one of the best Android phone...

The Touch Controllers for the Oculus Quest 2 ship with one disposable AA battery each, but once those run out of juice, you should invest in the best Oculus Quest 2 replacement batteries to fill in for them. While the Touch Controllers last longer than the headset's limited battery, they still use enough energy that you'll need to invest in some rechargeable batteries or a stack of disposable batteries to stop your VR sessions from getting disrupted. Here are the batteries and chargers we recommend for your Oculus Touch controllers.Best rechargable batteries + chargerPanasonic K-KJ55MCA4BA 3 Hour Quick Charger with 4 AA eneloop Rechargeable BatteriesStaff PickThese rechargeable batteries store up to 2,000 mAh of power and can be recharged up to 2,100 times. They can be charged completely from dead or partially charged without damaging the energy storage memory. We recommend buying them with the quick charger accessory, which will get your AAs recharged in no time, but you...

A new way to keep track of your Digital WellbeingWhat you need to knowOneLab Studio has launched a new wallpaper app named WellPaper.These live wallpapers change throughout the day, revealing how much you are using your phone.The app is free to download and works with any Android device.There is definitely no shortage of options for finding the best wallpaper apps on Android, but only a few of them are unique. Take SwirlWalls from Chris Lacy for example, as this allows you to set unique live wallpapers that move around as you interact with your device. But today, OnePlus is taking a different approach to wallpapers on your Android phone with the newly-released WellPaper.Digital Wellbeing has been a battle Samsung, Google, Apple, and others have been fighting, and now OnePlus is joining the fray. With Wellpaper (via XDA Developers), you are provided with three different wallpaper options to choose from: Composition, Radial, and Glow.Each of the colors in the wallpaper ...

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is the Chrome OS tablet we've all been waiting for. But then again, it's not just a tablet. With the included keyboard, you can quickly transform it into a laptop whenever needed. It even supports stylus pens and has pretty unbelievable battery life, with the ability to stay powered on for 2 to 3 days per charge. Even at its regular starting price of $280, finding a comparable 2-in-1 as dependable as the Chromebook Duet is close to impossible.The Lenovo Chromebook Duet already sits at a more affordable price than many of its competitors, though if you can find a deal on one, you're really in for a treat. While there are usually one or two ways to save a bit of cash on the purchase, the best Lenovo Chromebook Duet deals don't come around all that often. We'll be tracking all of the best sales and offers right here so be sure to keep this page bookmarked and check back soon if you don't see a deal that entices you to reach the checkout page just yet.Still...

Protecting the Samsung Galaxy S9's curved display is no easy task — tempered glass offers the best protection, but a PET film can generally flex around the edges of curved displays better. There's also a price difference, so there's a lot to consider when you're buying. These are the best screen protectors for your Samsung Galaxy S9.Best overallWhitestone Galaxy S9 Screen Protector (Dome Glass)Staff PickWhitestone's UV-curing wet-install Dome Glass kit is the best on the market. It's expensive, but it'll protect your screen when it needs it most.$40 at AmazonEasy to installamFilm 3D Curved Glass Screen Protector for Samsung Galaxy S9AmFilm simplifies the install by providing an "applicator case" so you can line up the perfect fit. This simpler tempered glass option also costs less.$10 at AmazonBest for casesSpigen NeoFlex (2-pack)Spigen is great for case-friendly screen protectors. They might not be tempered glass, but they're far easier on your wallet...

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE accidentally went live earlier this week.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy Tab S7 Lite and A7 Lite are now official.The tablets bring the best of Samsung's big-screen experience to a cheaper price point.They'll be going on sale from June.Samsung today finally launched the Galaxy Tab S7 FE, a cheaper variant of the Galaxy Tab S7 that was well praised last year as one of the best Android tablets.The Tab S7 FE will come in four colors: Mystic Black, Mystic Silver, Mystic Green, and Mystic Pink. Samsung will slap on a pair of AKG speakers with Dolby Atmos compatibility, and there'll be a 12.4-inch 2,560 x 1,600 TFT display that's S Pen compatible around the front.As expected, it'll be a 5G compatible device powered by the Snapdragon 750G processor. There's up to 6GB of RAM backing this, alongside 128GB of expandable storage to store your apps and games. With a 10,090mAh battery and support for 45W fast charging (charger sold separately), Samsung...

Make sense of your healthFitbit Sense$290 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSECG, EDA, skin temperature sensorsActive Zone Minutes featureAdvanced heart rate technology6-day battery lifeConsLTE connectivity is not an optionPrevious Fitbit bands aren't usableWhen you're looking for a smartwatch that will help you stay on top of your health, you can't do much better than the Fitbit Sense. You'll have advanced heart rate technology, a handful of important sensors, stellar battery life, and a free Fitbit Premium trial.Stay connected at all timesSamsung Galaxy Watch 3From $330 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSOptional LTE connectivityMilitary-grade durabilityTwo size optionsNew health/fitness featuresConsMore expensiveBattery life could be betterThe Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is a nice improvement from its predecessor. Users will have onboard GPS, optional LTE connectivity, seamless smartphone notifications, mobile payments, and some new health/fitness fe...

One of the most important features of your smartphone is its storage. It's how you download your favorite apps, save all of your special photos, download music playlists for long road trips — you name it. The longer you hold onto your phone, the more likely it is you'll start to run out of space at some point down the road. Should you find yourself in this situation, here are a few tips on how to free up storage space on your Android phone.Products used in this guidePure Android: Google Pixel 4aAdd more space: Samsung EVO Select 128GB microSD CardWe're using a Google Pixel 4 XL running Android 10 for this guide. Some screenshots may not look 100% the same depending on what phone you have, but the core idea of everything should be the same.Check how much storage left on your phoneFirst thing's first, we should take a look at how much space is left on your phone. It's a good idea to go through and clean stuff up every now and then regardless of how much space you have, b...

Verizon one-ups T-Mobile with its Google Play Pass offer.What you need to knowVerizon is offering Google Play Pass or Apple Arcade to its subscribers.Depending on the plan, users could get up to a full year of access for free.The offer requires a new line activation to qualify.Verizon has announced a new offer for its customers, giving them free access to Google Play Pass or Apple Arcade for up to a year when you subscribe to one of its Unlimited plans. The offer is available for both new and existing customers on some of the best Verizon plans that offer unlimited data and 5G access.Google Play Pass free with Verizon Unlimited plansVerizon is now including up to 12 months of Google Play Pass for free with its Unlimited plans, and best of all, the deal is available for both new and existing customers. You'll also score access to other streaming services like Disney+ and Discovery+ for free as a member.Shop at VerizonWith Verizon's latest offer, if you're on Ve...

Google Chrome has a fairly robust password manager. It can help generate passwords, store them safely, sync them across multiple devices, and even help you change your bad passwords. But there are a lot of reasons why you might want to consider switching to a dedicated password manager. As a rule, they're more secure, work across multiple browsers and devices, and still largely do everything Chrome does. Basically, all password managers let you import passwords from Chrome. All you have to do is import the CSV generated by Chrome into your new password manager. Here's how to do that.How to export your passwords from Google ChromeOpen Google Chrome.Click your profile photo in the upper right corner of the browser.Click the Key icon under your name and email address.Click the three dots to the far right of Saved Passwords. Click Export passwords.There will be a warning box here and one that's worth repeating. When you export your passwords, you will be exporting them to a ...

Finding a really great deal on the PlayStation VR can sometimes feel impossible. Compatible with PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles, this virtual reality headset has quickly become a favorite amongst gamers moving into the VR space; unfortunately, that also means there's rarely a reason for Sony or any retailers to provide a discount on it. Luckily, PSVR deals are out there — if you know where to look.While the PlayStation VR is primarily a headset, you'll also need the PlayStation Camera and PlayStation Move controllers to complete the setup and play VR games on your PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5. You could purchase these items separately and potentially pay less by doing so, though an easier way to purchase everything you need is with a PlayStation VR bundle. Sony usually offers a bundle that includes these essential VR peripherals as well as a new VR game so you'll be ready to start playing immediately.One way you can always save on the PlayStation VR (when it's in st...

The Galaxy S21 series phones are the first to get the June 2021 security patch.What you need to knowThe June 2021 Android security patch has started rolling out to Samsung's Galaxy S21 series phones.The rollout is currently limited to South Korea. Samsung is expected to release the June security update for more Galaxy phones over the coming days. Samsung's Galaxy S21 series have started receiving a new software update that brings the June 2021 Android security patch. According to SammyFans, the June 2021 security update arrives as version G991NKSU3AUE8, G996NKSU3AUE8, and G998NKSU3AUE8 for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra, respectively.The new security update appears to be limited to users in South Korea right now, but it will expand to more markets over the coming days. Since we're still in May, Google hasn't yet detailed the changes included with the June 2021 security patch. More details are expected to arrive in the first week of June, which is when G...

This may be the best $300 Chromebook deal I've ever seen.As AC's Chromebook queen, I check Chromebook prices the way most of you check sports scores or the weather forecast, looking to see if the best Chromebooks have gotten some overnight discounts or lightning deals that could help you get a better laptop for less. Today, Acer announced its first Thunderbolt 4 Chromebooks, including a new version of last year's wildly popular Acer Chromebook Spin 713. With the new model is launching at $700, last year's $530 and $630 models are starting to see sweet sales. I expected to see them down to $450-$500, but I was not prepared to see $329 staring me in the face on Best Buy's website.If you value your eyes or your wallet, go grab this immediately before it sells out.Premium screen, budget priceAcer Chromebook Spin 713$329 at Best BuyThis is worth it for the 2K touchscreen alone.Balancing excellent performance and futureproofed fundamentals, Acer produces the most well-round...

Bring the classic arcade action you remember to your phone with these great fighting games!Fighting games have fallen to the wayside on the latest consoles (and the less said about the state of arcades the better) but for a long while, fighting games reigned supreme in the video game world. They were often the battleground where gamers showed off their skills in arcade tournaments or huddled around a TV with your best pals. Fortunately, the genre is still well-represented on mobile devices, with a great mix of ports and original titles to satisfy fans of fisticuffs.Here's hoping we see more ports of classic fighting titles but until then, enjoy these great fighters. And when you're done here, be sure to head over to the best Android games list to check out some other great games!The gamesShadow Fight 3King of Fighters '97Mortal KombatReal Boxing 2Injustice 2Fighting Tiger - LiberalSkullgirlsStreet Fighter IVPrizefightersReal Steel World Robot BoxingBrawlhallaFin...

Over the last few years, we've seen a resurgence in home speakers thanks to the rise of Alexa and Google Assistant. The idea of having a "smart speaker" is a lot more appealing to folks than a traditional, dumb speaker, and this has created a significant shift in the home audio market. Sonos has been creating killer speakers since 2002, and lately, has adapted to the changing industry. The company's product line is now better than ever, with its top overall offering being the tried-and-true Sonos One. Here's why the One is so darn good, along with the company's other top gadgets.Best overall: Sonos OneWith an impressive portfolio, one of the best Sonos speakers that stands out for most people is the Sonos One. This is the Gen 2 model that was quietly released in March 2019, and while it's mostly the same as the Gen 1 version, it benefits from an upgraded processor and better Wi-Fi performance.In any case, the Sonos One is our favorite Sonos speaker for a lot of reasons. It's ...

If you're thinking of leaving AT&T's prices behind but still like its coverage, then check out these alternative carriers.We've compiled the complete AT&T Wireless MVNO list so that you don't have to go searching all around the web for a great wireless deal. A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is an "alternative carrier" that leases network coverage from one of the large carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon). Much of the time, these carriers can offer cheaper service by targeting smaller markets or removing features that many people won't need.Thanks to the size and quality of AT&T's 3G, LTE, and 5G network and support for most unlocked phones, AT&T is an easy choice for an MVNO. Still, many of the best MVNOs use one of the other networks, or even multiple networks, and may be a better fit for you.You need to make sure that your phone has the following GSM bands to work with an AT&T-based MVNO. Alternatively, you can check your IMEI on the website of m...

The best premium Chromebook just got better, and you can buy it today!What you need to knowFour new Chromebooks debuted at Next @ Acer, with one going on sale today.The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 uses last year's great design and adds in Thunderbolt 4 and Intel Evo platform certification for $700.Acer's first 17.3-inch Chromebook, the Acer Chromebook 317, arrives next month for $380.Updated models for the Acer Chromebook 314 and Acer Chromebook 514 arrive later this summer.Summer is approaching, and with it comes a new crop of capable Chromebooks, including a refresh of the Acer Chromebook Spin 713, one of the best Chromebooks on the market today. The new Acer Chromebook Spin 713 — model number CP713-3W — is mostly the same as last year's CP713-2W, except for two very important upgrades: it's powered by the 11th Gen Intel Core series of processors, and the USB-C ports have been upgraded to Thunderbolt 4. I'm not totally thrilled that they're on the same side, Macbook-sty...

Best answer: No, the Oculus Quest 2 does not need a PC to operate. However, hooking it up to a PC will open an entire library of PC-only content.The standalone wonderThe Oculus Quest 2 was designed to be played on its own, anywhere, and at any time. There's no need to make a Quest 2 PC connection thanks to a powerful custom mobile processing chipset inside the Quest 2. That processor can recreate virtual worlds in a way that feels real to the person wearing the headset. The four cameras on the outside of the Quest 2 headset can see the world around and map it in 3D space, keeping track of your movements in VR and translating them to the virtual world in a way that makes sense. That means you won't need to hook up additional cameras or light boxes the way other VR systems required.Likewise, the cameras track those Oculus Touch controllers via a bevy of LEDs placed in the ring of the controller, enabling fast and accurate movements that make it feel like you're moving the virtual...

Google One is a great all-in-one solution to store your Google Photos, Docs, and other important pieces of online information. It is easy to access and use, priced competitively among the online storage options and can be accessed from just about any connected device, including laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones. And while it's great that Google gives you more free storage than some other companies (15GB for all users), it's also pretty easy to fill up your quota, especially if you've got years of emails, documents, photos, videos, and music or movies in there. Google does offer affordable upgrade tiers, but the first thing you should do before you upgrade is to make the most of the space you already have. Here's how to manage and free up your Google One storage to accomplish just that.How to manage and free up your Google One storageOn an Android deviceOpen the Google One app.Tap on Storage at the top of the screen.Scroll down and tap on Free up account storage.Sc...

The refreshed One SL doesn't offer new features or functionality.What you need to knowSonos has introduced a "refreshed" version of its One SL speaker.The new model is said to be more power efficient and is also recyclable. It is now available to purchase from Sonos as well as third-party retailers. Sonos has quietly introduced a refreshed version of its One SL speaker. The new model comes with a "more efficient" wireless radio and a more sustainable product packaging.Sonos has also made a few tweaks to the design of the speaker's base to get rid of excess plastic and stickering. Although the minor refresh doesn't bring any new features to the "dumb" speaker, Sonos says the updated model is compatible only with its newer Sonos S2 app. The launch of the refreshed One SL was first reported by The Verge.In a statement sent to Android Central, Sonos said: We continually seek opportunities to make our products more efficient and sustainable. In this case, we've made upda...

Whether you own the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 or any of the previous models, you want to keep track of your S Pen. This seems easy enough, but it's not uncommon for small accessories like this to get misplaced. If that time has come, try not to worry too much. You'll have some different options on how to replace your Samsung Galaxy Note S Pen.While some of the best Samsung Galaxy Note 20 cases ensure you still have easy access to your S Pen, this doesn't mean it won't get damaged or lost. Fortunately, all hope is not lost when it comes to finding a replacement.How to replace your Samsung Galaxy Note S PenFirst, retrace your steps and take one last look around to see if you can locate your S Pen.Remember that you'll receive a notification if your S Pen is too far from the Bluetooth connection.After receiving this notification, be sure to put your Samsung Galaxy Note S Pen in its place when you're done using it.If all hope is lost and it's time to replace your Samsung Galaxy Not...

Phones aren't the only pieces of tech that benefit from protective covers. Though the PS5 DualSense controller doesn't necessarily need a skin, there are plenty of reasons to get one. Maybe you want to get a better grip on your controller, or maybe you don't want that pristine white case getting all dirty. Maybe you just want a different color. Whatever the reason, you can pick up a fairly cheap controller skin for your DualSense. While they're all pretty similar, here are some of the best PS5 controller skins to fit your style and budget.Pleny of colorseXtremeRate PlayVital Guardian Edition Case for PS5 DualSenseStaff PickeXtremeRate's Guardian DualSense case is ergonomic and comfortable, featuring high-grade silicone and provides protection against bumps and scratches. There are over 10 different colors to choose from, and it comes with a set of thumb grips.$16 at AmazonJust the gripseXtremeRate PlayVital Red Anti-Skid PS5 DualSenseWant to have a better gr...

What might be driving this lossless largesse?Recently, two of the streaming music industry's biggest players — Apple and Amazon — both announced that they would begin offering lossless audio streams to their paid subscribers at no additional cost.This marks the first time Apple has offered a higher-quality music format to its subscribers, though Amazon (and others) have offered hi-fi or HD music for several years under more premium subscription tiers.More things for less money (or no money) sounds great, but unless you're Neil Young or our very own Jerry Hildenbrand, I will wager that you either have no idea what lossless audio is or that you don't really care about it.So just what is lossless audio, you may ask? Essentially, it's an uncompressed digital audio file format that offers a higher fidelity sound closer to what you might actually hear in person. There are different definitions, versions, and formats of lossless audio, but the important thing to note is that it...

Google Play PassGaming Powerhouse$4.99/mo. at Google Play StoreProsMassive library of 800+ apps and gamesLower annual feeNo ads or in-app purchasesNew games added monthlyConsIncludes a lot of fillerNo native listing of all included apps and gamesIf you consistently play a lot of mobile games, Google Play Pass is a great way to get your hands on a massive library of games and apps for just $5 a month. The service includes some top tier games, but also includes a bevvy of filler games/apps that most people wouldn't consider value-adds.Apple ArcadeExclusive Paradise$4.99/mo. at Apple ArcadeProsLots of exclusive games made just for ArcadeNo ads or in-app purchasesCompatible across Apple devicesNew games added weeklyConsDoesn't include appsSmaller library of games with 180+Higher annual feeApple Arcade originally included only exclusives on its platform, but has since expanded its library to include more classic titles. The higher a...

After 17 years the entire cast of the iconic 90's sitcom Friends will be reunited in a new almost two-hour-long special and we have all the details on how you can watch Friends: The Reunion on TV or online.Friends first premiered on NBC back in September of 1994 and the series ran all the way until May of 2004. In its ten years on the air, the show had a total of 236 twenty-minute episodes that followed the lives and loves of a close-knit group of friends living in New York City.Now after almost two decades, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer will return to the show's original soundstage (Stage 24) on the Warner Bros. Studio lot in Burbank, California for an unscripted celebration of the beloved series.In Friends: The Reunion, the entire cast of Friends will participate in a trivia game about the show to see who remembers the series most. There will also be a table read of an episode from season 4 titled "The One With ...

With so many Fire Kids tablets available from Amazon these days, filtering through it all can be tough.If you search for the best Android tablet for kids, you will inevitably find an option from Amazon at the top of many lists. This is because Amazon has worked extremely hard to offer good quality hardware and software and do so at an affordable price. With up to six different tablet options for kids, it can be difficult to sort through which is the best Amazon Fire kids tablets to buy for your child.Just rightAmazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2020)$140 at Amazon$140 at Best BuyBest option for most kidsThe Fire HD 8 Kids tablet offers a great 8" HD display that is big enough to enjoy content on but not so big that it's hard to hold for smaller hands. With dual speakers, a durable case with a built-in kickstand, and excellent parental features, your child is sure to love this tablet.Amazon Fire Kids tablet:What is it?PricingDifferences FeaturesPro modelsAmazo...

The next phone in the OnePlus Nord series has big shoes to fill.What you need to knowThe next device in the OnePlus Nord series is the Nord CE 5G.It will make its global debut in India on June 10. OnePlus is also launching a new TV in the U series at the event, with new wireless earbuds inbound later in the year. OnePlus is increasingly focusing on the Nord series to bolster its sales momentum. The OnePlus Nord debuted nearly a year ago and is still one of the best cheap Android phones available in 2021; it continues to sell incredibly well in markets like India.OnePlus says that sales in India increased by 200% in Q4 2020 — following the introduction of the Nord — with that number rising to 300% in Q1 2021. Clearly, the Nord as a product resonated with users in the country, and OnePlus is now aiming to follow it up with a new launch in the series, the Nord CE 5G.The Nord CE 5G will make its global debut in India on June 10, and OnePlus will also introduce a new TV ...

There's no shortage of great VPN providers out there and NordVPN happens to be among the best. Normally when something is at the top of its class that means it costs more, but that doesn't have to be the case here. You can actually get some pretty great NordVPN deals, coupons, and discounts on NordVPNs service without trying too hard.With nearly 5,400 servers spread across 59 different countries, there's a lot to like about NordVPN. It's one of the best options out there for unblocking Netflix in various regions and has great security features.Today's best NordVPN deals and couponsWhen looking at VPNs, security is always at the front of our focus as we test them. We have a full NordVPN review that breaks down all of the key parts but, as a whole, the service offers fast speeds, reliable connections, and works on almost every device out there.The best NordVPN deal available todayWith NordVPN, the longer you prepay for the service, the better the deal becomes. Right now, the ...

Nubia says the RedMagic 6R is a gaming phone that has been designed for everyday use.What you need to knowNubia has announced another new flagship gaming phone.The RedMagic 6R features a 144Hz AMOLED screen, Qualcomm's Snapdragon 888 processor, and a 4,200mAh battery. It will go on sale in China from June for a starting price of 2,999 yuan ($470). ZTE's Nubia sub-brand has announced a new addition to its RedMagic 6 series family, dubbed the RedMagic 6R. The phone is primarily aimed at gamers, but doesn't have the same gaming-inspired design as the RedMagic 6 and 6 Pro phones.Nubia's new RedMagic 6R sports a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 360Hz touch sampling rate. Under the hood, it packs the same Snapdragon 888 chipset as the best Android phones on the market, paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage.The RedMagic 6R has a quad-camera setup at the rear, featuring a 64MP Sony IMX682 main sensor. It also includes a 1...

Now let's see if Google can capitalize on this chance.If you were to ask just about any iPhone user why they won't switch, there's likely to be one prevailing answer — the ecosystem. Everything just works. The seamless transition between the Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad, and Mac is the best system integration that we've ever seen. Samsung has been battling Apple in this respect for years, upping the ante by partnering with Microsoft for better integration with apps on Windows, but it's not the same.Google, on the other hand, has felt like it has a bunch of different teams working on different projects that don't ever talk to one another. Of course, we're sure this isn't actually the case, but that's the way that it looks from where I'm sitting.Wear OS has been a jumbled mess since its inception, and even after Qualcomm introduced a new wearable SoC that fixed many of the complaints from previous iterations, only the TicWatch Pro 3 uses it. Samsung and Fitbit have dominated the A...

This is the definition of plug and play.I love using my capture card, even though I don't use it super often. It has an extremely niche purpose, so I use it when I need to get footage off of my PS5 and onto my computer quickly and easily. I'm not a very active streamer (sound off to my 20 subscribers on Twitch), but if I was, my capture card would probably be my lifeline. The problem is that they can be cumbersome to use, especially if you're inexperienced and don't know where all the HDMI inputs and outputs go.That's where something like the new Genki Shadowcast comes in. It's one of the smallest capture cards currently on the market, practically the size of my thumb, and is super easy to use. It has just one port, so all you have to do is plug it into a console's HDMI port, and then plug the other end into a cable, which runs into your laptop's USB-C port. It works with your Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, so you can start streaming to your laptop super easily. If yo...

You'll still have to use the Twitter mobile app to join a Space.What you need to knowTwitter's Clubhouse-like 'Spaces' is now available on the web.While you can now join Spaces from a mobile or desktop browser, you won't be able to host one yourself. Until now, users could join Spaces only using the Twitter mobile app on iOS and Android. Twitter's Clubhouse-like 'Spaces' feature has finally made its way to the web. Users can now join a Space from any desktop browser or the best Android browsers.Unfortunately, it is currently not possible for users to host Spaces from Twitter for web. If you want to host a Space, you'll have to use Twitter's Android or iOS app instead. However, you can set reminders to join a scheduled Space and try out the new transcription design.Spaces are making their way to Twitter for web! Now you can join a Space to listen in, test out the new transcription design, and set reminders to join a scheduled Space. https://t.co/xFTEeAgM4x— Twitter Sup...

The Pixel 6 chipset won't be as powerful as the Snapdragon 888, but that's the point.What you need to knowMore details about the Pixel 6 chipset have been revealed.The chip will reportedly fall below the Snapdragon 888 in terms of power and feature a Mali-G78 GPU.Details about the Pixel 6 displays have also emerged.More details about the alleged Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 "Pro" have emerged, providing a better idea about the chipset and possibly the displays of the devices.Google's GS101 Whitechapel chipset that is rumored to power the device will reportedly not match the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 in terms of power. According to leakers Max Weinbach and Yogesh, it will be built on a 5nm process, and its power will be closer to that of the Snapdragon 870.Google will apparently lean on machine learning and AI power its upcoming flagship smartphones, which has been largely expected of the rumored Google Silicon.It's also been rumored that Samsung is building the chip. So f...

But Fitbit's 2FA is still text-based.What you need to knowFitbit is rolling out two-factor authentication (2FA) for its app.The 2FA system will use SMS for verification instead of software-based verification.The new 2FA should be rolling out to users on both Android and iOS.For Fitbit users who have been asking for two-factor authentication (2FA) on the app, your wishes have been answered. Fitbit has begun rolling out "an extra layer of protection" on iOS and Android devices. As pointed out by 9to5Google, the feature does not appear to be available for everyone just yet, and it hasn't shown up on our devices either.Fitbit appears to be sticking with text-based 2FA instead of a software-based method. It's a curious omission since Fitbit is now owned by Google, which allows verification of its accounts through a prompt on a trusted device or with an authenticator app. Our Jerry Hildenbrand has pointed out the flaw in using text-based verification, stating that it gives user...

A perfect lifestyle watchFossil Gen 5From $240 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart-rate monitoringActivity/sleep trackingGoogle AssistantGoogle PayConsOnly one size optionMore expensiveIf you want to go big or go home with your smartwatch experience, the Fossil Gen 5 is where it's at. It's nearly identical to the Fossil Gen 5E, with a few exceptions. On this model, you get built-in GPS, additional storage, and a rotating crown. It only comes in one size, though.Lite yet efficient wearableFossil Gen 5EFrom $180 at AmazonProsHeart-rate monitoringActivity/sleep trackingGoogle AssistantGoogle PayTwo sizesConsLacks onboard GPSNo rotating crownLess storageIf looks are more important to you than internal features, you might find yourself favoring the Fossil Gen 5E. You'll have two size options to choose from, which is ideal for users with smaller wrists. It's slightly more affordable, but you'll sacrifice GPS and a few other perks.F...

A new feature could set Pixels further apart from other Android phones.What you need to knowGoogle is working on an app translation feature in Android 12 for Pixel phones.Once enabled, the feature should allow Pixel users to use apps that don't support their native languages.It's not currently available for testing in the current betas of the operating system.Google is working on a new feature for Pixels that'll let them automatically translate app content. If it ships, it'll be coming in Android 12 and was spotted by the folks over at XDA Developers.How would this work? The short version of this story is that Google is working on a translation framework that'll allow your phone to automatically translate text in apps that don't support your phone's preferred language. Many apps already support multiple languages, so only a few niche apps (or even old and discontinued ones) will benefit from this. Still, users of said niche apps would value this functionality. It'll be a ...

The best Android phones have not only managed to pack in more features over the years, but they've been getting larger as well. For many, it's gotten to the point where they have to use two hands for tasks that ordinarily, or ideally, could be done with one hand. Sometimes, it's just more convenient or comfortable to use your phone one-handed, like when you're walking or holding a cup of coffee. Several smartphone manufacturers have taken it upon themselves to build their own one-handed mode versions, but now with Android 12, Google includes it at the system level. At the time of writing this article, one-handed mode is still in beta. But if you have the beta installed, you can turn on the feature now. In a few easy steps, we'll show you how to enable one-handed mode in Android 12. Let's get started!How to enable one-handed mode in Android 12Open the Settings app on Android 12.Scroll down and tap on System.Scroll down and tap on One-Handed mode.Tap to toggle on Use one-ha...

That's a lot of Aston Martin DB5s and shaken martinis.Well, it happened. Amazon finally got tired of all the other tech giants buying up movie studios and decided to get one itself, buying MGM Studios for $8.5 billion. MGM had been trying to find a buyer for years amid a rapidly shifting market, and Amazon is trying to get taken more seriously in Hollywood, so the deal almost seems like a good idea from a bystander's view. Then again, $8.5 billion is a lot of money that could be spent on a lot of different things, even when it comes to studio shopping. MGM is worth two Marvels? Really??After all, Disney bought Marvel for $4 billion in 2009 and Lucasfilm for $4.05 billion in 2012, then spun them together with Pixar, Disney, and National Geographic for Disney+ in 2019. That seems like a bargain next to the $71.3 billion Disney paid for 20th Century Fox's movie studios and non-news television networks — and it also underscores how MGM, one of the oldest movie studios in America,...

Hunt should be one of Farlight 84's flagship modes offering 48-player PvP.What you need to knowFarlight 84 third-person shooter coming to Android, iOS, and PC in 2022.Lilith Games has announced one of its flagship modes called Hunt, featuring PvP between 48 players.As its name suggests, Farlight 84 takes place in 2084 in a desolate wasteland. Farlight 84 is an upcoming third-person shooter from Lilith Games, the studio behind AFK Arena, Rise of Kingdoms, and Warpath. In a press release the developer announced Hunt, a new mode that players can expect when the came comes to mobile and PC in 2022.Hunt is described as a skirmish between two teams, each with a Numtag that the other team is expected to hunt down. Once teams earn enough points through collecting the Numtags, they'll have the opportunity to evacuate the map."We're excited for players to discover our innovative HUNT mode in Farlight 84, which provides an unprecedented experience for fans of the genre, Our ga...

Google announced a Meet redesign for the desktop web last month.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out a new Meet design on the web.The company confirmed today that it had hit 1% of users.There are a few known issues that Google plans to sort out over the next month. Google last month announced a new Google Meet interface would be rolling out to Chromebooks and desktop operating systems, and now the company says that it's now available for some. Despite that, Google notes that there is some weirdness in the app.First though, let's talk about the new Meet look. The new look adapts itself for larger meetings, letting more callers be visible at a time. It also allowed users to resize their own tile if they wanted to keep themselves visible, rather than the current all or nothing option.So, what's wrong with the Google Meet interface? Google highlights the following known issues. 1) You might notice some unexpected behavior such as missing video tiles or the capti...

The company started testing this move out last year.What you need to knowFacebook had started testing private like counts back in 2019.The change allowed you to hide the number of likes your posts received, as well as strip like counts from your feed.It's now being made available globally. Facebook is rolling out a new change that'll allow you to hide like counts on your Instagram feed. This change will apply both to your page, as well as to those of others. In other words, you'll be able to hide like counts on your own posts so others can't see them, and you'll be able to hide the like counts on posts in your feed so you can't see them.A test that started in 2019 showed the first steps of this change, with the company having initially said that it wanted "your followers to focus on what you share, not how many likes your posts get."The change was intended to improve people's experience on Instagram and removing the pressure to post for the likes. Instagram, while pop...

Most phones these days are capable of taking beautiful photos, and some even feature multiple lenses that change the perspective of your shots on the fly. But for those that don't, artificially distorting your photos in post to add a fisheye, wide-angle, or macro look can affect the quality and feel of the image. Luckily, external, universal lenses allow you to achieve these unique perspectives naturally, even if your phone only has one lens. Here are the best universal lenses for your Android phone.Best overallMoment LensesStaff PickWhile not entirely universal, you can use Moment's high-end lenses with any phone the company makes an accompanying case for, including popular Galaxy and Pixel devices. You can pick up a wide-angle, super fisheye, or telephoto lens for your phone, then simply attach the lens to the case's screw mount and start shooting!$120 at AmazonClip-on lensesXenvo Pro Lens Kit Macro and Wide Angle LensXenvo takes a more straightforward approach ...

The device is expected to be released sometime around September.What you need to knowAnker has teased a new Android TV streaming dongle with 4K support.The device will include a Google-designed remote and ship with Android TV 10. It is slated to launch in Japan later this year.Anker's Nebula brand has announced that its first-ever streaming dongle will arrive later this year (via 9to5Google). According to a tweet posted by Nebula's Japanese Twitter account, the device will be called the "Nebula 4K Streaming Dongle" and ship with Android 10.TV等にHDMI接続できるストリーミングデバイス「Nebula 4K Streaming Dongle」を9月頃に販売開始予定！最新のAndroid TV 10.0を搭載し、YouTubeやNetflixを始めとした7,000以上のアプリに対応。最大4K出力の高解像度に加え、Dolby Digital Plus対応の高音質な映像がお楽しみいただけます。#APC21Spring pic.twitter.com/RqEbAUyBzQ— Anker Japan (@Anker_JP) May 25, 2021...