Latest from Android Central

Google Stadia allows players to stream games to their desktop computers, televisions, and mobile devices without needing a dedicated console or box to stream from. The service uses the cloud to beam the games directly to your device, but an internet connection or mobile data is required. Since it works on various hardware, there are multiple resolution options to make the game look as best as possible depending on the connection speed. Here is how to get the best streaming quality on Google Stadia.How to get the best streaming quality on Google StadiaGo to the Stadia home page while signing into the respective Google account.Click on your profile icon in the top right corner of the page.Select Stadia settings.From the list on the left side, select Performance.Click on the dropdown menu under Resolution to see all the available quality options.Select the highest quality option at Up to 4K for Stadia Pro subscribers or Up to 1080p for standard users.While 4K and 1080p ...

When it comes to the web browser on your phone, security is the first and most important consideration. But it's still possible to safely incorporate browser extensions for Chrome.Almost everybody uses Google Chrome for their web browser. Yeah, I know plenty of people who don't, and I have used different browsers from time to time myself, but the point still stands: Chrome is the world's leading browser across both desktop and mobile, which makes it the best Android web browser.The biggest reason for this is that it's installed by default. If you decide you want to buy the very best Android phone, you set it up and see a Chrome icon front and center. You know immediately that the little multicolored ball is for browsing the web. But Chrome is also a decent web browser in its own right and has a good set of features and some of the best experts in the industry keeping the data you store inside the app secure. (Remember, there is a difference between security and privacy, so don't ...

Samsung kicked off 2021 with a bang.There are some things in the mobile tech space that are constant every single year, one of which is that we get a new Samsung Galaxy S release pretty early on. That was no different for 2021, but Samsung gave us the Samsung Galaxy S21 in January rather than making us wait until March or April. This year's flagship series 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, and we're here to help you find out everything you need to know before you buy one for yourself — or buy them for the whole family.Killer flagshipSamsung Galaxy S21From $800 at SamsungFrom $800 at AmazonFrom $800 at Best BuyMore phone, less moneyFor a lot of shoppers, the baseline Galaxy S21 will be the go-to choice over th...

Google is trying to strike the right balance between privacy and money.What you need to knowGoogle has provided a set of proposals for the development of its Privacy Sandbox initiative.The company will work with the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) on a more open, collaborative approach to the Privacy Sandbox.The commitments are the result of an investigation into the initiative back in January.Google and UK regulators have announced a set of proposed commitments that will help to shape the search giant's Privacy Sandbox initiative.The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) have stated that the purpose of these commitments is to "ensure that the design, development, and implementation of the Privacy Sandbox Proposals does not lead to a distortion of competition in the digital advertising markets."With input from the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), the CMA will oversee the development and implementation of Google's privacy initiative. The agenc...

The next Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Z Fold could be announced in late July or early August.What you need to knowRelease dates for the next Galaxy devices have reportedly been unveiled.The Galaxy Watch 4 is said to ship on August 11, and the Galaxy Z Fold 3 will arrive towards the end of August.Samsung is expected to show off more about the new Wear OS later this month.The rumored Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has been tipped to arrive on August 11, according to known leaker Jon Prosser. He states that Samsung's upcoming foldables are expected later that same month.Prosser says the dates he received from his sources indicate when the device will ship, not the announcement date. That goes for the rumored Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3, which will reportedly ship on August 27.Samsung is expected to announce its next lineup of Galaxy devices at an Unpacked event later this year. This could also include the rumored Galaxy Buds 2 that have recently been spotted. With no re...

At this point, Bluetooth wireless headphones have become ubiquitous, coming in a variety of styles and feature sets to support great sound. There are many great options, and chief among them are the Sony WH-1000XM4 at the top of our best wireless headphones. Their sound quality is great. They have industry-leading active noise cancelation (ANC), long battery life, and fit comfortably for long-term use.Best overall: Sony WH-1000XM4There aren't many flaws to point out with the WH-1000XM4, which was in the same spot before. One of the biggest reasons is the ANC performance, which gets an upgrade here courtesy of Sony's QN1 processor and a dual noise sensor that does the work of blocking out the background. Commuting on a bus, train, or plane won't be a problem while wearing these. Sony's pedigree in this area shows itself with true wireless earbuds, too.Sony chose not to change anything about the sound signature, preserving the same bass-heavy balance that sometimes drowns out t...

These new antitrust laws could mean drastic changes to how Big Tech operates.What you need to knowU.S. House lawmakers introduced several new bills that target companies like Apple, Google, Facebook, and Amazon.The new bills could weaken the dominance of Big Tech and make it harder to purchase other companies or engage in mergers.The legislation aims to hold "unregulated Big Tech monopolies accountable for anti-competitive conduct."U.S. lawmakers have introduced five new draft bills that take aim at the biggest names in tech, particularly Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google. The bills seek to weaken these companies' economic grip in the world.Rep. David N. Cicilline introduced the new antitrust legislation, saying the goal is to level the playing field between the largest companies and everyone else. "Right now, unregulated tech monopolies have too much power over our economy. They are in a unique position to pick winners and losers, destroy small businesses, raise prices...

A mere 365 days after it was originally due to start, the best teams and players in Europe are finally set to collide in European football's showpiece tournament.Read on for full details on how to get a live stream of every Euro 2020 match no matter where you are in the world with our guide below.Set to take place across eleven different cities spanning the continent, 24 teams are set to battle it out over 51 games during the month-long tournament.A Ronaldo-led Portugal were winners in the last edition of the competition five years ago, but Gareth Southgate's young England side are the outright favourites with the bookies this time out.Boasting the likes of Kylian Mbappé and N'Golo Kanté, Didier Deschamps' France are many pundits pick to lift the trophy on July 11, while Belgium golden generation of stars including Kevin De Buyne will be hoping to finally live up to the expectations surrounding their talented squad.Read on for your full guide to watching Euro 2020 online,...

BigBox joins the big boys.What you need to knowFacebook has entered an agreement to acquire Population: One developer BigBox VR.As with previous Oculus Studios acquisitions, Population: One will continue to be developed for all platforms.Facebook says that BigBox VR will have access to additional resources to aid with the development of Population: One and future titles.After an incredibly successful launch and two seasons' worth of content under their belts, BigBox VR looks to have even greater plans for the future of Population: One, as it has just been acquired by Facebook and will join Oculus Studios. This move further strengthens Facebook's first-party VR development houses, all uniting under the Oculus Studios banner, as BigBox VR joins the ranks of the developers of Onward, Asgard's Wrath's Sanzaru Games, Lone Echo developers Ready at Dawn.As with previous acquisitions, Facebook specifically states that Population: One will continue to be developed for all platform...

Your phone may or may not be dirtier than a toilet seat right now, but luckily you can fix that with the best phone sanitizer. After all, our phones pick up a whole heap of bacteria, germs, and other nastiness when we set them down throughout our days. Cleaning our phones is paramount. While ultraviolet phone sanitizers can cost a pretty penny, they're 100% worth the investment if they can keep you from getting sick, now more than ever.Best by a landslidePhoneSoap 3 UV Cell Phone Sanitizer and Dual Universal Cell Phone ChargerStaff Pick$80 at Amazon - $80 at Best Buy - $80 at TargetPhoneSoap is one of the originals and is still one of the most trusted ultraviolet phone sanitizers around. Reliability and excellent build quality are part of why we love PhoneSoap's products.Flip and repeatHoMedics UV Clean Phone Sanitizer, UV Light SanitizerFrom $21 at Amazon - $80 at Best Buy - $28 at WalmartThis sanitizer keeps a slim, travel-friendly profile by being collaps...

Google is switching up from updates every six weeks to updates every month from Q4 2021.What you need to knowGoogle will update Chromebooks monthly after Chrome OS 96 lands in October.Chrome OS 95 will be skipped as a result of this while Google tries to realign Chrome browser and Chrome OS.Google will also introduce a new channel aimed at Chromebook owners in education and business, allowing users to stay on one Chrome OS version for six months. Chromebook updates are getting much faster as Google switches up the cadence of its release schedule to match the Chrome browser. From Q4 2021 (so around October), Google will start updating Chrome OS on a monthly basis. This switch will happen with the Chrome OS 96 release, scheduled for November.Writing on the Chromium blog, Marina Kazatcker, Chrome OS Release TPM Lead, said To deliver new features more rapidly to consumers while also continuing to prioritize the key pillars of Chrome OS – security, stability, speed, and ...

Enjoy the rush of competition from the comfort of your living room.The PS4 has an immense catalog of great games that let you relax, visit a new world, or hang out with friends online. That includes a vast number of sports games catering to fans and competitors of every type. So whether you want to put together a dream team featuring your favorite professional athletes or play a wild, futuristic sport that will test your reflexes and situational awareness, there's a game for that. We've put together a guide to some of the best PS4 sports games available now so you can enjoy all the thrills.Jump to:Rocket LeagueFutureGrindBOXVReFootball Pro Evolution Soccer 2020Everybody's GolfMadden NFL 21F1 2020NBA 2K21OlliOlli: Epic Combo EditionTony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2Rocket LeagueWhy play soccer with people when you can do it with customized Battle-Cars? Face your friends in the arena through local multiplayer and online play that lets you share games with people ...

Two more chapters to tide you over.It's been a little over a year since Final Fantasy 7 Remake finally launched on the PS4, and after nearly two decades of rumors, it was well worth the wait. Now, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade, the version of Remake for the PS5, is here (if you're still trying to get your hands on one of these consoles, check out our PS5 restocks guide), promising to take full advantage of the powerful performance of the new console while providing some bonus content. Not only do we get an upgraded game for next-gen consoles, but we get the INTERmission DLC, which features a previously under-utilized character.Final Fantasy 7 Remake completely floored us, but will Intergrade continue to impress? Read ahead to find out.Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade:What you'll loveWhat's not so greatShould you play?Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade ...

As high-end phones get more expensive, awesome budget Android phones are getting better. We've researched and ranked all of the best cheap Android phones you can buy, and with our buyer's guide, you'll find the perfect phone for you.And if you're phone shopping for Prime Day on June 21 and 22, we're rounding up the best Prime Day Android phone deals for you.What are the best cheap Android phones?Last year was tremendous for Android phones in the budget space, and as we make our way through 2021, we expect more of the same. You're seeing features like multiple cameras, faster processors, and 5G hit price points that would have been unheard of just a couple of years ago. Even though it pushes the limits of what a "budget" device is, we recommend the Google Pixel 4a as the best cheap Android phone because it hits the right balance of performance, camera quality, and battery life, with a clean build of Android that you're sure to love. Indeed, the Pixel 4a's camera is nearly identica...

Philips Hue smart lights are some of the coolest on the market, and they're definitely some of the most popular, but they can be quite expensive, especially once you get into colored bulbs. So if you're looking for a less expensive option, or just something other than what's popular (maybe something without a hub?), then check out these other best Philips Hue alternatives.Best alternativePhilips WiZ Connected A19 BulbStaff PickYou might be surprised to know that Philips Hue isn't the only smart bulb brand from the company. Philips WiZ Connected bulbs require no hub, unlike Hue bulbs, connecting directly to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth via the WiZ app. Despite being less expensive, these bulbs aren't any less capable. They can be dimmed and color-tuned to your liking. These bulbs shine in millions of colors thanks to the powerful WiZ Connected app and support your favorite virtual assistant.$36 at Amazon (3-pack white-only) $14 at Best Buy $28 at Best Buy (2-Pack white and color)A...

The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 may be more than a couple of years old now, but if you're still holding on to one, the best Galaxy Note 9 cases will protect your still-stylish Samsung phone from wear and tear as it ages. Whether you need a simple, clear case or something a bit more elaborate and fun, we've rounded up all the best choices for your favorite pocket computer!Slim and ruggedSpigen Rugged ArmorStaff PickFor those who don't want to sacrifice pocket space for protection, Spigen's Rugged Armor case is a great option. This sleek, one-piece case is rugged with carbon fiber accents that look great on all phones, especially big phones like the Note 9. It's made of rugged TPU material and features a matte finish.$12 at AmazonMost ruggedSupcase Unicorn Beetle ProThe Unicorn Beetle Pro is a case you can trust no matter which phone it's protecting. This rugged-style case is designed to keep your phone well protected all around, thanks to a built-in screen protector for ...

There's no word yet on when the first Xiaomi phone with 200W charging will launch.What you need to knowXiaomi's 200W 'HyperCharge' reduces a phone's battery capacity to 80% after 800 charging and discharging cycles.The industry-leading fast charging solution was announced last month.OPPO's 125W Flash Charge and other rival fast-charging solutions also have a similar impact on long-term battery health after 800 charging cycles. Xiaomi's 200W 'HyperCharge' fast charging technology was showcased last month, making it possible for a 4,000mAh battery to be fully charged in just 8 minutes. While there's no doubt that the technology is awe-inspiring, there are concerns about its long-term impact on battery health.In a Q&A posted on its Weibo page, Xiaomi today answered some of the questions regarding battery degradation with its 200W charging solution (via Android Authority). According to the company, a battery could lose around 20% of its capacity after 800 charging and dis...

Whether you're making an all-day road trip or just your normal half-hour commute, the car is the perfect place to top off your shiny, new Android phone. After all, your phone should be stationary in a car mount for Android Auto or stowed away, so you're not tempted to use it while driving. Car chargers come in many styles and shapes, but with the advent of USB-C Power Delivery charging, we now have a widely used standard that can be used for charging a phone or even laptops off the same port. Here are the best car chargers to replenish your battery on the road.Futureproof chargingAnker 49.5W PowerDrive Speed+ 2 Car AdapterStaff PickThis charger features a 30W USB-C Power Delivery port that can charge your Chromebook decently or charge most phones at top speed and a USB-A port to charge older phones and accessories. Anker's build quality also means this charger might outlive your car.$35 at Best BuyGo wirelessiOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2Who wants to plug in and...

You'll need a literal warehouse in order to take advantage, though.What you need to knowOculus Quest and Quest 2 update v30 could introduce a new, expanded Guardian play space.This place space would max out at 15 meters per side, or 49ft long.Upcoming games like Space Pirate Arena should be able to take full advantage of the new, larger play spaces.The Oculus Guardian looks to be getting a big upgrade with Oculus Quest update v30, as noted by UploadVR. The Oculus Quest will soon be able to create those virtual Guardian boundaries up to 15 meters in length; that's 49ft long for Americans like myself who aren't used to metric sizing. We're confirming the math with Facebook but, if the measurements are in the same proportion, this means the new maximum diagonal size of the Oculus Guardian would be 11.25 meters or nearly 37ft. That's a substantial upgrade from the current maximum diagonal size, which rests at 7.5 meters or 24.6ft.Oculus updated the Guardian around this time l...

Here's my weblink, so call me maybe?What you need to knowWe asked our readers if they were excited by Apple's announcement that it will make its popular FaceTime video chat service available to Android users.Nearly half of respondents said flat out that they didn't care.Almost as many were lukewarm about the announcement, while nearly a quarter of respondents said they were actually excited by the news.On Monday, Apple kicked off its WWDC conference with a two-hour keynote presentation filled with new announcements about its latest software releases. One of the biggest pieces of news for iOS was the announcement that the company would be making its popular FaceTime video calling service available to Android and Windows users via web links. Since communicating with our iPhone-toting friends and family can sometimes be a challenge, we wanted to hear from the Android community whether or not they were excited by these developments.Over 42% of respondents said that they were ...

Amass your insect horde and prepare your troops for battle in this tiny but mighty resource management game.I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, but it's still somewhat rare that I encounter a game that instantly makes me feel like I'm way out of my depth. And yet here I stand with The Ants: Underground Kingdom, trying to build up an ant colony and feeling like an absolute newb in the process.The Ants is a strategy and resource management game where you're appointed as the ruler of your own tiny kingdom, which you need to build and expand as far as you can to obtain insect dominance. The depth to this unique title and its great production value make this an easy contender for our best Android games.Your colony revolves around your queen, of course, and you need to mobilize workers and soldiers to your advantage. The game's tutorial does a decent job of holding your hand through the first few chapters to ensure you get the gameplay before eventually setting you loose on your...

Could more UI customization options be on the way?What you need to knowGoogle Chrome Canary v93.0.4536.2 adds a customizable shortcut button to the address bar.Once you enable the toolbar shortcut, Chrome will automatically add a new button between the address bar and the tab switcher, based on your usage. You can access the new toolbar options by heading over to Settings > Advanced > Toolbar shortcut. Google recently rolled out Chrome 92 beta for Android with quick access to Google Lens in the address bar, an improved video conferencing experience, a new file handling API, and a few UI tweaks. As part of random A/B tests, Google also rolled out a new button between the address bar and the tab switcher to a small number of users – a 'New tab' shortcut for some, and a 'Share' shortcut for others.Google has now introduced a 'Toolbar shortcut' option for users with Chrome Canary 93, giving users the ability to customize the new button (via Android Police). If you ha...

You may know that there are three smart screen devices currently being sold by Amazon, but do you know which is the best Amazon Echo Show? With so many showy Echo devices, which one should you get? We'll talk you through each option to help you decide which is right for your home, although right now, we recommend the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) above the others because of its perfectly accommodating size.Best Amazon Echo Show overall: Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)The Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) sits right in the middle of the Echo Show line. As such, it takes some of the best features from the high to low ends. For example, it's in-between the smaller size of the Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) and the arguably unwieldy size of the Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen). It improves upon the smaller Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) sound quality with double the number of speakers (two 2-inch speakers at 10W per channel vs. one 1.7-inch speaker at 4W per channel). Plus, it has the same 1280x800 display as the larger Echo Show 10 (3rd ...

Gallium nitride picks up where silicon ends — it's stronger, runs cooler, and is finally cost-effective enough to end up in cheap devices like wall chargers.Like most everyone else I have a pile of random phone chargers that sits mostly unused. I've recycled all the horrid low-power ones that used to be good enough to charge a phone and kept the best USB-C chargers, but still have more than I'll ever need. I even have a good many that support USB-C Power Delivery so I really don't care that phone makers pretend to care about the environment and don't include one in the box.I also rarely use any of them, because I have one that's a lot better in every way. You see it in the photo above, where it looks like just another charger, but it's actually a 100-watt Aukey USB Type C gallium nitride charger. It's a little bigger than the crummy charger that used to come with every phone, but it's also powerful enough to charge two laptops at the same time and barely gets warm to the touch....

Moto G Stylus 5GFor versatility$400 at MotorolaProsSuperior screen5G connectivityHigher-end specsConsTwice the priceBarely-changed designThe Moto G Stylus 5G brings a large display with a sharp enough resolution to see what you're doing clearly, which will come in handy if you're going to make use of the built-in stylus regularly. Its 5G connectivity, large battery, and Android 11 operating system make it a bit more prepared to last for a few years, but it comes with a major price uplift.Moto G Power (2021)For affordability$200 at MotorolaProsAffordable priceLarge batteryBig screenConsDowngraded displayWeaker performanceThe Moto G Power (2021) is a simple phone that may hint at complexity with its three cameras, but its main selling points should really be its large display and large battery. It doesn't have high-end performance, and its display isn't super sharp, but it will likely do the job for more casual smartphone use....

Thank you, Kustom themers, you da real MVP.Android 12 is in beta right now, if you have one of the supported phones, but even on the beta, there's not much of the new Material You theming to be found so far. You can set accent colors, but the only updated widget we've seen so far is Conversations, which doesn't really work yet.That's okay, though. Hundreds of Android themers saw the Material You demo during Google I/O and immediately set to work. In theming communities like r/androidthemes and r/kustom, there's been a flurry of KWGT preset packs shared over the last month. I've tried several of these packs, and these are the three you'll have the best theming experience with. Because they're third-party, you can use them with every Android launcher and almost every modern Android phone.Please keep in mind that in order to use KWGT packs, you need to either pay for KWGT Pro or be a Google Play Pass subscriber, and you need the main KWGT app installed before you can add any of th...

Pick a game for your kids to play on their Android devices.Xbox Game Pass has so many games that one person will probably not be able to play them all in one lifetime. It has games for Android gamers, console gamers, RPG fans, FPS enthusiasts, casual gamers, and just about everything in between.It's not just the adult gamers who can get something out of a Game Pass subscription. There are plenty of games on Game Pass that are appropriate for younger players as well. Several of them have touch controls, though there are several that require the use of a controller. Luckily, there are several controllers that work well with Game Pass on Android.These are the games we recommend for parents who want to let their kids play on Game Pass.Jump to:Banjo-KazooieSlime RancherDisneyland AdventuresRush: A DisneyPixar AdventureOvercooked 2Ori & the Blind ForestPHOGS!Viva PiñataNew Super Lucky's TaleYooka-Laylee and the Impossible LairBanjo-KazooieThis game and i...

Samsung's next big version update has an exciting design and loads of new features.One UI 3.0 — Samsung's custom interface for Android 11 — is here. With most of its 2020 phones now receiving the update, Samsung's well underway with its update process for the new software. The stable release has made its way to the Galaxy S20, Note 20, S10, Note 10, and dozens of other Samsung phones, and it landed on tablets as well.One UI 3.0 comes with exciting new features, subtle UI tweaks, and optimizations across the board. Here's what you need to know about the One UI 3.0 update, the list of eligible phones that are getting the stable update, and when you'll get the stable OTA update on your Galaxy phone. With the Galaxy S21 series offering One UI 3.1 out of the box, Samsung is making that particular build available to its older flagships, so let's see what One UI 3.1 brings to the table as well.The default choiceSamsung Galaxy S21 Ultra$1,200 at Amazon$1,200 at Best Buy$1...

OxygenOS 11 brings a radical new visual layout and dozens of features.OnePlus made the switch to Android 11 last year with OxygenOS 11, introducing a new visual design and a slew of exciting new features. While OnePlus was content to offer a UI that mimicked vanilla Android in the past, that has changed with OxygenOS 11. There are distinct styling elements here, and the interface resembles Samsung's One UI quite a bit.In terms of features, we finally get Always-on Display. Although OnePlus phones have used AMOLED panels from the beginning, the company didn't offer an AOD mode — until now. There's also a simplified settings page, new system font with better readability, more customization options, new themes for Zen Mode, and a whole lot more.OxygenOS 11 is installed out of the box on the OnePlus 8T and the OnePlus 9 series, and the update has made its way to all of OnePlus' 2020 and 2019 phones, including the OnePlus 8 series, OnePlus 7 and 7T series, and the Nord. OnePlu...

Android 12 is the 'biggest design change in Android's history,' and you can install it right now.Android 11 was an update that was greater than the sum of its parts. Smaller features like chat bubbles, conversation notifications, and a built-in screen recorder don't sound all that impressive on their own. Combined into one seamless package, however, Android 11 was a pretty great update for Google's mobile OS.While it introduced a lot of under-the-hood changes, Android 11 didn't have many user-facing features. That's changing with Android 12; the second beta is now available, and it includes exciting new features in the form of overhauled customization options, useful privacy and security fixes, and fun animations throughout the animation.Google calls Android 12 "the biggest design change in Android's history," and that's immediately evident once you take a look at the new interface. If you need a quick look at what the interface looks and feels like right now, you should he...

The TicWatch Pro 3 GPS seems set to get the Wear OS update, but we have to wait and see.Update: A source close to Android Central stated that the Wear OS 3.0 update is not yet confirmed for the TicWatch Pro 3 at this time, but efforts are being made, and we should hopefully know more soon. The article has been updated to reflect the new information.What you need to knowAccording to a customer service representative, the TicWatch Pro 3 GPS will be receiving the new Wear OS in the future.There is no set date for the availability of the new wearable OS from Google and Samsung, but it's expected to launch this year.If true, this update would put Mobvoi into an elite category of manufacturers willing to update their smartwatch to the brand new OS.Ever since the new Wear OS was announced at Google I/O 2021 — a joint effort by Samsung and Google to make the ultimate smartwatch OS — a few things have remained a bit unclear. Which of the best Wear OS watches will be getting t...

Android 12 is already breaking records, and it's only in beta.What you need to knowGoogle VP of Engineering has stated that the Android 12 beta has been downloaded more than any other.The tweet comes just as the second beta becomes available on eligible devices.Android 12 beta 2 comes with several visual and privacy enhancements.Android 12 is currently in beta, but the platform update is already breaking records according to Google's VP of Engineering. Dave Burke stated on Twitter that the Android 12 beta was Google's "most downloaded/installed beta ever."Android 12's beta is by far our most downloaded/installed beta ever. Speaking of which, Beta 2 is available today: https://t.co/VR8CtXKWkZ— Dave Burke (@davey_burke) June 9, 2021The statement comes just as the second beta makes its way to some of the best Android phones. The new beta comes with a host of visual and privacy enhancements, such as the new Material You theming system and the Privacy Dashboard, features...

We're not sure where Sam met Snake, but he picked up a few tricks.What you need to knowHideo Kojima made an appearance at the Summer Game Fest, and dropped the teaser trailer for the Director's Cut of Death Stranding.Death Stranding Directors Cut is coming to PlayStation 5 "soon."The entire teaser trailer is one big Metal Gear Solid-inspired joke.An expanded version of Death Stranding is coming soon to PlayStation 5, as Hideo Kojima revealed during a first look at the Summer Game Fest. We don't know anything about it yet, other than that Kojima Productions is apparently not above poking fun at some of the auteur's previous creations, as the whole teaser trailer is basically one big joke at the expense of Metal Gear Solid.Kojima appeared during the Summer Game Fest during a pre-recorded interview with Geoff Keighley. Initially, he responded to Keighley's questions with only vague hints about his future projects, only to drop the trailer for the new release of Death Str...

When it comes to playing games via Xbox Game Pass, once known as Project xCloud, you'll need the best controllers for Android gaming. There are also many titles to choose from, so be sure to check out the best Game Pass games you can play on your phone. When it comes to audio, though, finding the best Bluetooth headset that takes your gaming to the next level can be tough. These are our picks for the best around.Best overallSteelSeries - Arctis Pro Wireless Gaming HeadsetStaff PickThe SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless is one of the best choices when it comes to Bluetooth gaming headsets. While the price point is extremely high, it comes packed with features and has some of the best audio that a gaming headset can provide. The Arctis Pro Wireless even comes packaged with a wireless transmitter for those looking to transition from mobile gaming to a console or PC.$330 at Best BuyCancel out the noiseBL - Quantum 800 RGB Wireless DTS HeadphoneThe JBL Quantum 800 i...

Play all the Ubisoft games you could ever want for a monthly price.Game companies continue to seek ways to get their games in the hands of gamers, and subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now are all the rage. Following that trend, Ubisoft has launched Ubisoft Plus, a subscription that opens up the company's substantial library of games for a monthly price.Ubisoft+ resembles EA Play more than it does the likes of Xbox Game Pass. It's a publisher-specific service, and gives you access only to Ubisoft games. However, given that it's attached to Google Stadia and Amazon Luna, you can not only have access to these games on cloud, but you can also play the games on PC without either of those services.Jump to:What is Ubisoft+?How much does it cost?What devices is it available on on?What games are available?Ubisoft+:Reward systemWhat is Ubisoft+?Originally called UPLAY+, Ubisoft+ is Ubisoft's dedicated game subscription service. For a monthly price, yo...

Screen-on time helps users better understand their phone usage habits.What you need to knowGoogle has confirmed that it will be bringing back screen-on time information with a future Android 12 build.The option to view your screen-on time since the last full charge was removed in the first Android 12 beta. You can still use a third-party app to check your screen time in Android 12 Beta 2. Google introduced a ton of new features with the first Android 12 beta last month — including Material You design tweaks and privacy enhancements. Weirdly, the first public Android 12 beta also removed the ability to view the "screen-on time" in the Battery section of the Settings app.On Android 11, users can view their phone's screen-on time by heading over to Settings > Battery > screen usage since full charge. The screen-on time could be accessed from the same section in the first two Android 12 Developer Preview builds as well. With the third Android 12 Developer Preview, how...

The best wireless chargers give you an easy way to top up a phone's battery, and the Galaxy Note 10 and Galaxy Note 10+ support every standard you can think of, including Qi, PMA, and Samsung's own Fast Wireless Charging 2.0. The Note 10 and 10+ support extra-fast speeds of 12W and 15W, respectively, but only with a select few chargers. Let's round up the best Note 10 wireless chargers for your new phone!Best wireless chargersSamsung 15W Fast Charge 2.0 Wireless Charger StandStaff PickIf you want the absolute best wireless charging speeds for your new Note 10, Samsung's own 15W wireless charging stand is your best bet. It's not cheap, but that's because there's a lot of tech inside. Charge your phone vertically or horizontally, cool down your phone with a fan, and change the fan speed and LED strength.$51 at Amazon $60 at Best Buy $78 at B&H PhotoTwo for oneYootech (2 Pack) Wireless Charger,Qi-Certified 10W Max Wireless Charging StandBest ValueIf you l...

Advertisers want the right people to see the right products, and Google uses the advertising ID to do it.Google has built many of the products and services we use every day, but selling things to consumers isn't how the tech giant makes the bulk of its money. Google is primarily an advertising company.That doesn't mean Google is creating ads and making sure you see all of them (though the company can help create captivating advertisements); it means that Google sells advertising space for other companies to use inside of its products and across the web. This is a very competitive space and one where Google has a unique (and potentially unfair) advantage: tracking our interests can focus on showing the right ads to the right people. Google makes money because it knows what you like.I'll use the same analogy I always use here. I like fishing. I buy fishing equipment on the internet, research fishing spots on the internet, and watch videos about new fishing techniques on the ...

The best chargers to buy today for laptops, Android phones, and everything in between these days are GaN chargers, short for Gallium nitride. Semiconductors made with Gallium nitride like the Anker Nano II can be smaller than traditional silicon chips, and smaller chips make smaller, lighter, and ultimately better chargers. The tech has been around for a couple of years now, but this is still a relatively small field. These are the best GaN chargers with Power Delivery charging you can buy today.Too small to pass upAnker Nano II 45WStaff PickThis 45W charger is smaller than most 30W chargers, thanks to what Anker calls "GaN II" chips, making it even more efficient and limiting heat buildup. The folding prongs also make it perfect for travel.$36 at Amazon $36 at WalmartBest dual-port chargerRAVPower GaN PD 90W Wall ChargerI love the utility of this charger. You can charge a Macbook at top speed, charge two Chromebooks at top speed, or fast-charge a laptop and a tab...

Messenger and Instagram gain new themes paying homage to World Oceans Day and two pop media releases.What you need to knowFacebook today improved Messenger's payments support with QR codes and links.The app, including Instagram, also picked up new themes.Finally, Facebook makes it easier to reply to media in conversations with a quick reply bar. Facebook today is rolling out new updates to Messenger and Instagram (for users who've updated to the new Instagram). The update adds support for new themes, a quick reply bar when sending or receiving media, and new ways to send and receive money from anyone using Facebook Pay.The payment feature is probably the most significant. Like Apple Pay and iMessage, Facebook has allowed U.S users to send each other money without leaving the app. Messenger payments are probably not coming outside the U.S. because there are easier methods for P2P transfers in international markets, but that doesn't stop Facebook from improving on it.The ...

Gmail and Google Photos are two of Google's best services. But they've never worked well together, until now. So if you're still using Google Photos, even after Google did away with unlimited storage, and haven't moved on to a cloud backup alternative, you can now save photos directly to Google Photos with a click.In May 2021, Google announced that the two services will now work better together. You can save photos sent via email directly to Google Photos, but there are some limitations. First, it only works with JPEG images. Second, it only works when viewing Gmail in a browser; this is not for mobile yet. Here's how to do it.How to move photos from Gmail to Google PhotosWhen you receive an email with a JPEG photo attachment, you can save it to Google Photos in one of two ways.Hover your mouse over the photo, and click the icon in the lower right corner that looks like a Google Photos icon with a plus symbol.The first time you do that, you'll get a message asking you to ...

Armor up Ratchet and Rivet before taking down their enemies.Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart features several armor sets that both Ratchet and Rivet can wear throughout the game, giving them damage buffs and other benefits. Each armor set is comprised of three pieces; the helmet, chest, and boots. Without all three pieces of a complete set, you won't get their collection bonus buffs. Thankfully, each map tells you exactly where to find the armor you need. It's then all about exploring the area and picking it up. You'll find most pieces within optional dimensional rifts that feature platforming puzzles of some kind, and there are eight total sets to be found.Here's every armor set in Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart and the buffs that they offer:Galactic RangerDescription: The classic helmet of the Solana Galactic Rangers. The Galactic Rangers' chest armor is forged with justice and Raritarium. The Galactic Rangers' pants protect the galaxy... and your legs.Collection Bonus: Mel...

Ms. Zurkon has a lot of weapons for you to buy, so save up those bolts.Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart wouldn't be much without the arsenal of weapons at your disposal. As you progress throughout the game, you'll be able to purchase new weapons from Ms. Zurkon with all of the bolts you collect. Because ammo can sometimes be scarce and because of the wide variety of weapons, I highly recommend switching between several instead of sticking to just one. You'll want to purchase the entire lot to make the most out of combat.Here's every weapon you can get in Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart:Jump to:Blast PistolThe ExecutorShatterbombMr. FungiTopiary SprinklerLarge Negatron ColliderWreckochetLightning RodDrillhoundVoid ReactorCold SnapGlove of DoomBombardierBuzz BladesPeacemakerBlackhole StormHeadhunterRyno 8Blast PistolDescription: Fires three shots of hot plasma at once. Accuracy decreases if shots are fired in a stream.The ExecutorDescription: Abl...

For the whole familyAmazon Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen)$85 at AmazonProsAffordableMultiple color optionsOption for Amazon Kids+ConsOnly 2 MP cameraNot very big for displaying photosIf you're looking for a smart display for an adult or older child's bedroom nightstand or desk, the Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) is a good option that adds the benefit of a screen to the smart speaker experience. It costs less than the Kids edition, but it's effectively the same smart display in a different finish without a kids content subscription.Great for young kidsAmazon Echo Show 5 Kids$95 at AmazonProsAffordableBright, cool color optionComes with Amazon Kids+ subscriptionStand and light bundle optionsConsOnly 2MP cameraNot very big screen for displaying photosIf you are searching for a device your young child can use exclusively, the Kids Edition of the Amazon Echo Show 5 is the perfect choice since it comes with a one-year subscription to the Amazon Kids+ se...

Privacy Dashboard, automated Material You theming, and plenty of quality of life features to behold.Android 12 Beta 2 launched today, and we immediately got our hooks into Google's latest mobile OS release to bring you everything that's new with Android. Android 12 Beta 2 brings us the Privacy Dashboard for the first time — the center for how users will control privacy on Pixels for the foreseeable future — as well as a more fleshed-out Material You theming engine, brand new ways to connect to Wi-Fi quickly, a new location to access Google Pay and control your smart home, and much more.Quite a bit has changed since we got our hands on Android 12 Beta 1, as you can see from the list above. Our Android 12 Beta 2 hands-on is just below and, if you like what you see and have a supported device like a Pixel 5, you can install Android 12 and give it a shot.Android 12 Beta 2 Privacy at the forefrontThere's no doubt that privacy is the new tech buzzword of 2021. While Apple is ...

Android 12's Privacy Dashboard does the one thing it had to do — be a single place where you can see exactly which apps are accessing your potentially sensitive data.The second beta of Android 12 has arrived and among the additions is one I've been looking forward to for a while — the Privacy Dashboard.I'll tell you right up front that this isn't the end-all-be-all when it comes to managing your digital privacy, but that unicorn doesn't exist anywhere, even on the best Android phone money can buy. But it's actually better than I expected it to be, and since this is "just" a beta release, there is time for it to get even better. I've been taking a look at it for a minute, and here's everything you need to know about how it works and what I think of it.What the Privacy Dashboard isImagine a single screen with a list of all the permissions and hardware that could be used to transmit sensitive data. Things like your location or your phone call logs. Things like your camera ...

The device comes with a Google Assistant-enabled remote control featuring dedicated buttons for nearly all major streaming platforms.What you need to knowWalmart's Onn-branded Android TV streaming devices are now available to purchase.The 4K model costs $30, while the FHD stick is priced at $25. Both models ship with a Google-designed remote control featuring a built-in microphone. Walmart's in-house Android TV UHD Streaming Device, which was quietly announced last month, is finally available to purchase (via 9to5Google). In addition to Walmart stores, you can also purchase the device online from the retailer's website for $30.The Onn-branded Android TV UHD Streaming Device has a similar design to Google's ADT-3 streaming device, which was announced for developers in December 2019. It also has a Google-designed remote control with dedicated buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, and YouTube. The remote includes an IR blaster, too, so you'll...

An AI-driven mesh system with incredible 5GHz Wi-Fi 6 performance.The TP-Link Deco X90 is without a doubt one of the fastest mesh systems I've ever used with a tri-band Wi-Fi 6 connection adding up to AX6600 speeds. This Deco also has an attractive design that looks great in just about any home, with interlocking curves that remind me a bit of expressionist architecture, a follow-up to Art Deco. The nodes are also compact for their power making them easy to place.With coverage of up to 6,000 square feet, the Deco X90 is a top contender for those looking to cover a large home or even a property with detached buildings. The Deco X90 gets even more powerful as you add nodes thanks to an AI-driven mesh technology that learns from your connected devices moving between nodes as well as neighboring connections. TP-Link notes that this information is all stored locally and is not uploaded to the cloud.The raw power of the equipment with its fast AX6600 Wi-Fi 6 connection and the intell...

This week, Daniel and Ara welcome iMore's Joe Keller and Android Developer Chris Lacy of Action Launcher and SwirlWalls fame onto the show. They have an in-depth conversation about Apple's announcements at WWDC 2021 and the latest Android 12 beta from Google.Listen nowSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: AudioSubscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:WWDC 2021: All the biggest Apple news and announcements | iMoreApple will bring head tracking to spatial audio on Apple Music later this year | iMoreApple is bringing FaceTime to Android in the most green bubble way possible | Android CentralGoogle is walking back on one of our favorite Android 12 design tweaks | Android CentralAndroid 12 will bring the end of third-party share menus | Android CentralWith Android 12 and the new Wear OS, Google can now better compete with Apple | Android CentralAmazon Sidewalk is revolutionary, but its massive scope has privacy experts worried | Android Centra...

Chrome OS notifications could get a new lease on life.What you need to knowNew code hints at a revamp of Chrome OS notifications.It's not clear how the notifications will look, but the code hints at new notification grouping.Google may choose to bring notifications closer to those found on Android 12.New developer code has been spotted that hints at a new UI for notifications on Chrome OS. The code was spotted by Android Police on the Chromium Gerrit developer tool and will reportedly feature a new UI.While there's no indication of what this new UI will look like, Android Police has found evidence that it will include notification grouping. The lack of a more intelligent notification system has been a major gripe for many users on the best Chromebooks, and Google may finally be making an effort to address it. This means notifications will appear grouped when coming from the same app, giving them a less cluttered look.The new notifications are not yet live in Chrome an...