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Updated 2025-09-13 08:47
The Galaxy S20 FE is one of the best phones, so it keep it looking great
Cases are practically a necessity nowadays, and that remains true for those looking for the best Galaxy S20 FE cases. This could be the way that Samsung owns 2020, as it has all the specs you could want with a sleek design and more color options than you can shake a stick at. Once you find the right case and one of the best Galaxy S20 FE screen protectors, you'll be right as rain and ready to do everything.3D effectsCaseology ParallaxStaff PickThe Caseology Parallax is another one of those cases that have become a favorite for many. The unique 3D design on the back improves grip and ergonomics, while the rest of the case gives you the protection you need. Caseology also ensures this case can be used with many of the best Galaxy S20 FE screen protectors along with maintaining support for wireless charging.$16 at Amazon$16 at WalmartThe classicSpigen Rugged ArmorFor years, Spigen has reigned supreme as one of the best case makers, thanks in large part to the ...
Snag a VPN for life for only $17 with this limited-time FastestVPN deal
We saw a bunch of great offers during Black Friday and Cyber Monday including some stellar VPN deals, though FastestVPN is giving you one more chance to save right now. For a little while now it has been offering lifetime VPN access for just $20, though you can currently drop that price down to only $16.60 when you use code SPECIAL2020 during checkout. That code is only valid for a short amount of time, so go ahead and use it if you haven't signed up already.In terms of regular pricing, FastestVPN goes for $10 per month, though its prices fall considerably if you commit to a 3-year or 5-year plan. That being said, none of FastestVPN's other offers come anywhere close to this holiday special. The company offers a 15-day money-back guarantee in case you don't like it but at this price, there is very little risk with trying it out.As you likely know, VPNs are pretty useful tools, especially these days. Not only do they afford you some extra privacy but they also allow you to access ...
Here are 15 affordable gift ideas for the Android lover in your life
The holiday season is now upon us, and while things may look a bit different this year, that's not to say we can't have any fun at all. Whether you have family that you live with or loved ones that are far away, you can still use this time of year to spoil them with gifts and either give them in person or have them shipped out. Buying gifts in general can be a challenge depending on who you're buying for, but what if that person is an Android user/fan? Here are some tips on a few presents they're sure to love!Portable powerAnker PowerCore Slim 10000If you're buying a gift for an Android nerd this holiday season, you can't go wrong with a trusty portable charger. Whether it be more convenient charging at home or having a way to refuel devices while on-the-go, these little gadgets are immensely useful. This particular one from Anker has a large 10,000 mAh capacity, fast charge speeds, and comes with an 18-month warranty.$20 at AmazonSafe and convenientiOttie Easy On...
Embracing plastic was the best change to smartphones in 2020
Metal and glass are great, but there's room for other, less "premium" materials.Cloud gaming went mainstreamStar Wars games saved usCheap phones got good againWe've all heard the age-old expression, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Smartphone design is about as subjective as it gets, and there's plenty of discourse surrounding the pros and cons of different build materials on phones; the aesthetic trade-offs, the different in-hand feel, and of course, the added fragility of decidedly more premium materials like metal and glass.Throughout the last decade or so as smartphone manufacturers have gotten progressively better at making top-notch hardware, we've more or less narrowed our options down to those two materials, at least in the high-end space. Glass tends to be the more popular option of the two, partially because it's compatible with wireless charging, but aluminum has made a comeback in phones like the Pixel 5 as companies find clever ways around metal's ...
Review: Donut County finally hits Android and it was worth the wait
What a hilarious and fantastic time.I have the privilege of checking out a ton of Android games and writing about them. Sometimes, however, special ones come across my desk that deserve reviews, and such is the case today. I proudly present a wonderful indie title called Donut County, a game that I just couldn't put down.When you combine excellent physics-based puzzle gameplay, a beautiful and minimalist art style, and good writing, you get gems like Donut County. It ticks all of those boxes and more, with it's only real downfall being how short it is. Alas, I guess I'll have to settle for replaying it because I love it so much.Swallow everythingDonut County Bottom line: Donut County lands on Android and it's a great success. It combines a simple yet beautiful art design, an addictive gameplay loop, and quirky writing...
Save up to 20% on Philips headphones including the Fidelio X2HR for $120
One of Amazon's new deals of the day has a selection of Philips headphones on sale for as much as 20% off. There are three headphones available in this sale that vary in price between $32 and $120, but all of them are discounted from much higher prices. The only thing you have to decide is what features you want and how much you want to spend on them. The Fidelio X2HR headphones, for example, are down to $119.99 today. These headphones have sold for around $145 for the last year with spikes up to $150. The last time they went as low as $120 was toward the end of 2019. They still go for that $145 price at other retailers like B&H.You can save $8 on a pair of Philips SHP6000 wired headphones today. These headphones offer deep bass, high-resolution audio, and superior comfort. The Hi-Res audio is expertly tuned and certfieid with extended response frequencies. The headphones use an over-ear design with 40mm drivers and soft foam cushions that can be adjusted for the perfect fit....
Nubia is working on a gaming phone with color-changing rear glass
The phone could possibly be a successor to the RedMagic 5S.What you need to knowChinese smartphone brand Nubia has teased a phone with a color-changing rear glass panel.The device will utilize electrochromic glass to achieve the color-changing effect.Vivo and OnePlus are also expected to launch phones with electrochromic glass next year.ZTE's Nubia sub-brand could soon launch its first phone with a color-changing rear glass panel. The company today posted a video on Weibo, teasing the upcoming phone.Similar to the OnePlus Concept One showcased at CES earlier this year, the upcoming Nubia phone will use electrochromic glass, which can quickly switch from opaque to transparent to achieve the color-changing effect. As can be seen in the video below, the phone has two transparent strips on the back, which show off its internals. However, users can choose to hide the internals of the device with the touch of a button.While Nubia hasn't shared any details yet, the design ...
Score 25% off TCL's affordable 10L and 10 Pro Android phones at Amazon
TCL took the wraps off its first self-made and own-branded Android phones in the 10-series earlier this year, and the inexpensive devices are even more affordable at Amazon right now. These unlocked phones are discounted by 25% there for a limited time thanks to on-page coupons, though the promotion won't be around for long.The higher-end of the two on offer, the TCL 10 Pro, is on sale for just $337.49 unlocked. All you have to do to score the saving is clip the coupon on its product page for 25% off before you add it to your cart. Today's discount is matched at Best Buy with further savings if you activate today.The 10 Pro features a Snapdragon 675 octa-core processor and 6GB RAM. There's 128GB of internal storage with microSD card support. It sports a 6.47-inch FHD+ waterfall AMOLED display with an in-screen fingerprint processor and HDR 10 support. It's equipped with a quad-camera set-up, with a main 64MP shooter supplemented with a low-light video camera, a wide-angle lens, a...
How to watch LiveXLive 'The Lockdown Awards' live from anwhere
Musicians have had to make a major heel turn in 2020 with live venues closed and concerts cancelled indefinitely. Rather than letting the music fade out, some artists have switched to virtual concerts to keep their fans entertained while staying at home and promoting social distancing. Now, LiveXLive is celebrating the artists that got us through the year with a special event dubbed 'The Lockdown Awards'.Hosted by Trey Songz, the event will feature performances by Ally Brooke, Avenue Beat, Icona Pop & Sofi Tukker, Johnny Orlando, Joss Stone, Lauv & Conan Gray, Monsta X, and Wiz Khalifa. Meanwhile, there will be special appearances by guests like Tori Kelly, Alex Rose, and Busta Rhymes.LiveXLive 'The Lockdown Awards': When and whereLiveXLive's Lockdown Awards air live this Friday, December 11 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, though you can join in on the party early with the pre-show beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT. The show will be streamed for free on the LiveXLive...
How to watch Cyndi Lauper's 'Home for the Holidays' live from anywhere
Cyndi Lauper is bringing a festive livestream benefit concert directly to fans this holiday season. In support of her nonprofit organization, True Colors United, the 10th annual Cyndi Lauper & Friends "Home for the Holidays" concert is going virtual for the year 2020 and is set to feature performances and guest appearances by some of the biggest names in music.Not only will we see exclusive performances from guests like Cher, Dolly Parton, Phoebe Bridgers, and the cast of Broadway's Kinky Boots, but there will also be special cameos by celebrities including Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, and Whoopi Goldberg.Home for the Holidays live: When and whereThere will be a few opportunities to catch this year's "Home for the Holidays" concert, though if you want to watch live, you'll need to download the TikTok app. The virtual benefit will only air live on TikTok Live this Friday, December 11 at 8 p.m. ET. If you don't mind waiting another two days, you can catch a replay of the ev...
Google Assistant support is now rolling out to all wired headphones
You will be able to issue voice commands by pressing and holding the "action button" on your headphones.What you need to knowGoogle Assistant's 'spoken notifications' feature is finally available on all wired headphones.You can press the "action button" on your headphones to talk to the Assistant when it is connected to your Android device.Until now, the feature was limited to Google's USB-C Pixel Buds. You no longer need a pair of headphones "optimized for Google Assistant" to be able to use the spoken notifications feature. Google has confirmed to the folks at 9to5Google that Assistant support, including spoken notifications, is now available on all wired headphones.Until now, this Assistant feature was only available on select wireless Bluetooth headphones. On the wired side, it was only available on Google's USB-C Pixel Buds.When you connect your wired headphones to your Android device, it will now launch a set-up process that will require you to enable the Notifica...
Best Fitbit deals: Save $50 on Sense smartwatch, $30 off Inspire 2, & more
There are a bunch of Fitbit devices on the market these days and choosing between them can be difficult. One key factor for many buyers, presumably including you reading this article, is price. Fitbit's smartwatches and fitness trackers span a wide range of price points and pretty much all of them can be found at a discount if you know where to look.Best Fitbit Deals Available NowFitbit Smartwatch Deals: Save up to $50Fitbit Fitness Tracker Deals: Up to $31 offFitbit Smart Scale Deals: From $49More Info: Pricing history, which to buy & moreFitbit Sense | $278.95 at AmazonThe Sense is Fitbit's newest and most premium smart health watch, and it's also the company's most expensive wearable. It has sensors to measure your electrodermal skin activity, temperature, and stress levels, and it can also take an ECG reading to determine if you have atrial fibrillation. All of this in a stylish new package with all of the comprehensive fitness tracking you've come to expec...
How to find your lost Android phone
Worried about misplacing your Android phone or (worse yet) having it stolen? Ease your fears and set up a tracking system before your worst case scenario strikes. You'll get the best results if your phone is connected to a Wi-Fi signal but GPS and mobile networks will still manage to pinpoint a fairly accurate location. You must also have a Google account for virtually all of the tracking services available, whether they are built-in or downloaded.How to locate your phone using GoogleMost Android phones now come with Find My Device built right in. This service automatically tracks your phone's location, so if it ever goes missing you can hop on your laptop or a friend's phone and find its last known location, ring your phone if it's nearby, or lock and/or erase your phone if you fear it has been stolen.The most important thing you can do is make sure your phone is set up to be found before it goes missing. Otherwise, you're basically on your own. An important point to note here...
Got a new phone? Set up Find My Device right now
There are several options available for remotely tracking your phone, but Google's own Find My Device service is one of the most convenient around. In addition to locating your phone, Find My Device lets you ring, remotely lock, or even erase the data if your phone goes missing or stolen. Here's what you need to know about Find My Device, and how to use the service.Install and enable Find My DeviceFind My Device is enabled out of the box on most devices, but it doesn't hurt to see if it's running on your phone. Doing so is a straightforward process that doesn't take more than a few minutes, so let's get started.If your phone doesn't already come with Find My Device pre-installed, you can download the app from the Play Store. The service is available for download even on older devices — all phones running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and above are eligible.Once the app is installed, you'll have to sign into it with your Google account. Doing so allows the service to esse...
Here are the biggest announcements from The Game Awards
The event was definitely full of surprises.The Game Awards 2020 took place today, and as always, tons of announcements were made regarding the future of games. There were many surprises at the event, including looks at the next Dragon Age, Mass Effect, and Perfect Dark.You can take a look at all the major announcements from The Game Awards below.Perfect DarkThe Initiative's latest game has finally been unveiled, and it is a brand new entry in the Perfect Dark series. In a brief trailer for the game, it looks as if the game will take place in the far future, in a world devastated by various disasters. It's unknown exactly what caused these disasters or how helpful the corporations in charge are now, but players will have to get to the bottom of it when the game launches.Back 4 BloodStick together. We’ve got a job to do. #Back4Blood - 6.22.2021 pic.twitter.com/4Sj0TaW6wG— Back4Blood (@back4blood) December 11, 2020Turtle Rock is no stranger to the world of zom...
Here are the winners from the Game Awards 2020!
The Last of Us Part 2, unsurprisingly, walked away the big winner of the night.What you need to knowThe Last of Us Part 2 took home the big prize at the end of the night, along with other awards included Best Direction and Narrative.Among Us was another big winner, taking home two prizes and beating out big names like Call of Duty.The Game Awards 2020 couldn't have come at a weirder time, thanks to it also being Cyberpunk 2077 release day, but it somehow was able to make us forget about the CD Projekt Red juggernaut for just a moment and help us remember what even came out in 2020.Some of the nominees were divisive and despite some snubs — Windows Central Best Xbox Game winner Ori and the Will of the Wisps missing in key categories, for example — the winners were overall standard. The Last of Us Part 2 took home seven wins, including Game of the Year. Another big winner, although not in the way you expect, was Among Us. The tiny 2018 mobile game became a surprise hit t...
Master Chief and Blood Gulch are officially heading to Fortnite
Master Chief has arrived in Fortnite.What you need to knowAfter leaking earlier this week, Epic confirmed tonight that Master Chief would be joining the world of Fortnite.Alongside the Master Chief news, Epic also revealed that Blood Gulch will be available in Fortnite's Creative Mode. Additionally, characters from The Walking Dead will be joining the game later this season. After leaks popped up earlier this week, Epic confirmed that Fortnite and Halo would be crossing over with each other after all, with Master Chief joining the world of Fortnite.Alongside the news that Master Chief would be joining Fortnite, Epic also revealed that Blood Gulch, the iconic multiplayer map from the Halo franchise, would be making its way to the world of Fortnite. The map will be available in Fortnite's Creative Mode starting tomorrow, and will be fully editable, with players able to put their own Fortnite-esque spins on the legendary area.The world of Fortnite has undergone quite t...
New Among Us map revealed at The Game Awards
A new map called The Airship is coming to Among Us in 2021.What you need to knowAmong Us is a social deduction game that first released in 2018 but gained popularity this year.During The Game Awards 2020, a new map called The Airship was revealed.There are only a handful of maps in the game right now, and The Airship is coming in early 2021.All Among Us GuidesHow to play Among UsAmong Us: Best tips & tricksHow to kick and ban playersAll levels in Among UsThe Skeld tasks guideMIRA HQ tasks guidePolus tasks guideDoes Among Us support cross-play?How to create the best Among Us gameHow to set up voice chatHow to be the best ImposterTips for finding the ImposterEvery way you can kill a CrewmateCustom Games in Among UsThe difference between the PC and mobile versions of Among UsThe difference between the paid and free versions of Among UsHow to unlock holiday-specific hatsTranslation of common termsHow Among Us got so popularHow to customize your chara...
Here's Kevin Feige's Phase 4 lineup for the MCU on Disney+ and in theaters
Marvel rounded out Investor Day with our first look at so many Marvel shows and films.What you need to knowMarvel gave updates on its robust roster of films and shows at the end of Disney Investor Day.We got trailers for four Marvel shows headed for Disney+ including the What If...? animated anthology.Kevin Feige confirmed that Black Panther will not be recast but Black Panther II will continue Chadwick Boseman's legacy and tell new stories in Wakanda.Wow. Disney Investor Day was like Comi-Con but without having to stand in lines for twelve hours to get into Hall H. Not only is Disney+ getting a lot of new content — and its first price increase — and if the slate of new Star Wars shows felt like it was too much awesome at one time, take a look at all the Marvel goodies we got today.Marvel Original ShowsWandaVision is just around the corner and got a brand new trailer that gets a little more in-depth into just what the frak is going on in this TV pocket dimensio...
You can now edit Office files directly from Gmail
Google continues to make its Workspace experience an integrated one.What you need to knowGoogle will now let users edit Microsoft Office documents directly from Gmail.The company earlier enabled Office file editing within its Google Docs suite, this feature builds on that earlier improvement.It's rolling out to all Google Workspace users within the next two weeks.Google now allows users to edit Office files directly from Gmail using Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. It's a feature that works due to the company's enhanced integration with Office files. As we reported, Google earlier rolled out full Office file support in its own online office suite, and now you're able to reap the fruits with Gmail.This change shows up as two new features. First, you can now directly open an Office file sent to you as an attachment in its associated Google Workspace app. A Word doc will open in Docs, a PowerPoint in Slides, and so on. It's not like the in-line editing that Microsoft has on ...
Darwin Project developers showcase Season at The Game Awards
Oh look another beautiful indie game to fall in love with.What you need to knowScavengers Studio, the developer behind the Darwin Project, announced Season at The Game Awards 2020.It will release as a PS5 exclusive.A release date was not announced.Darwin Project devs Scavengers Studio are working on a new game titled Season, and it was showcased at The Game Awards 2020. They did not announce a release date for Season, but we do know that it will be a PS5 console exclusive, at least initially. Season, a third-person atmospheric adventure bicycle road trip game. Through the eyes of a young woman from a secluded community, explore the world for the first time. Collect artifacts and memories before a mysterious cataclysm washes away the world...It looks like a charming indie game and a big departure from the Darwin Project. Other than what's showcased in the trailer, there isn't much known about Season. Scavengers calls it a passion project for the studio."We have ...
Google and Amazon both slapped with more fines for violating user privacy
Tech's biggest players just don't learn.What you need to knowGoogle has been fined over $120 million for violating French privacy laws.Amazon was also fined, but to a lesser extent of about $42 million.The violations surround the way companies obtain user information before consent is given.On Thursday, both Google and Amazon were slapped with fines for violating French privacy laws. The Commission nationale de l'informatique et des libertés, or CNIL, is a French administration tasked with enforcing privacy laws around user data in its country. According to the CNIL, both Amazon and Google were not entirely forthcoming to consumers about the information they were collecting and what it was being used for. The fines equate to over $42 million for Amazon, while Google takes a larger hit with a $120 million fine, the largest to date by the CNIL.Investigations into both companies commenced earlier in the year, and it was concluded that both companies began storing identifyin...
YouTube TV faithfuls can claim a free Chromecast with Google TV
Now existing users have a shot at getting a free ChromecastWhat you need to knowGoogle is offering a free Chromecast with Google TV to existing YouTube TV subscribers.Eligible subscribers much claim the offer by December 31st.Google recently offered a similar promotion for new YouTube TV subscribers.YouTube TV isn't cheap by any means. What used to cost $35 a month, shot up to $50, and now sits at $65 a month. It's not terrible, and is in line with other live streaming options, with the added benefit of being a Google brand. Every now and then, Google will offer discounts or extended free trials, but the latest promotion is for those of you who have stuck around.If you're a @YouTubeTV subscriber, check your email - you may have an offer for a free Chromecast waiting for you! pic.twitter.com/noRLOek3a5— Andru Edwards (@AndruEdwards) December 10, 2020According to an email going out to some YouTube TV subscribers, Google is offering a free Chromecast with Google TV don...
Review in progress: Cyberpunk 2077 is full of contradictions
Runs pretty well on the PS5 though.At the start of Cyberpunk 2077, your character wants nothing more than to get to Night City. Through marketing materials, we've been taught that it's a bright behemoth, sprawling and unobtainable thanks to controlling corporations and general dystopian rot. However, when my V, a nomad, entered Night City chased by border patrol, it was tough to take in. You're stuck in a car, shooting at officers, and all the while driving through industrial parks and barren wasteland underneath billboards. When you finally get to experience Night City — like, really experience it — it's through montage. You finally cut to six months later, and that's where the game really begins.This introduction changes depending on which backstory you choose for V, but it still represents the core issue with Cyberpunk 2077: it doesn't know what it wants to be. There's a gigantic open-world to explore in Night City, with a variety of NPCs, storefronts, and culture clashing...
This app just made gaming on a Samsung phone so much better
Decoupling GPU and system updates will allow Samsung a lot more flexibility in the future.What you need to knowSamsung this week launched a new app aimed at improving gaming performance on its phones.The GameDriver app allows the company to update GPU drivers for games separately from larger system updates.Currently, only a handful of games are supported, though the company is promising to expand that number soon.Mobile gaming has become an incredibly lucrative market over the last decade and has, in recent years, taken center stage in the smartphone world, with every new flagship offering at least some gaming-oriented features — not to mention the gaming smartphones with desktop-inspired liquid-cooling heatsinks and more.In yet another sign of mobile gaming picking up some of the best parts of desktop gaming, Samsung this week announced the launch of a new GameDriver app. While Samsung's phones are already among the best Android phones out there, this change will make ...
Disney's building their own MCU for Star Wars around The Mandalorian
The galaxy far, far away is about to get much bigger.What you need to knowDisney Investor Day brought us the biggest expansion of the Star Wars universe since Disney first acquired Lucasfilm.There will be ten new series in the Star Wars universe coming in the next few years on Disney+.Rangers of the New Republic and Ahsoka are new series in the same universe as The Mandalorian, and they will combine in a storytelling event.We also got confirmation that Hayden Christensen is returning to the role of Anakin Skywalker in the Kenobi mini-series!Disney Investor Day may not sound fun — and, yeah, it's not as awesome as a day at Galaxy's Edge — but this day is important in that it's a multi-hour sizzle reel of upcoming content that Disney has planned in the near future. While today mostly focused on Disney+ and the future of ESPN+, Hulu and the coming global expansion of Star (formerly HotStar), there was great news for Star Wars fans: we're getting a lot more new content in ...
The cost for Disney Plus is increasing to $7.99 a month
What you need to knowDisney has struck a deal with Comcast to bring Disney+ to Xfinity consoles.There will be a ton of upcoming Disney+ Originals for Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney/Pixar in the next year.Disney's Disney+ expansion in international countries are bringing small price bumps in certain regions.Pixar's Soul and Raya and The Last Dragon will be available on Disney+.The price for Disney+ is increasing to $7.99 a month.Disney just announced some exciting new Disney+ expansions for subscribers outside of the US during the Disney Investor Day 2020 presentation. As of December 2, 2020, Disney+ has 86.8 million subscribers, which means a lot of those who had the free year through Verizon have continued to subscribe.In the coming year, Disney+ will be getting a lot of brand new content, including Disney+ Originals. This will include 10 new Marvel series, 10 Star Wars series, 15 Disney and Pixar live action and animation series, as well as another 15 more shorter featur...
Raya and the Last Dragon comes to Disney+ on March 5
What you need to knowThe next Disney+ Premier Access film will be Raya and the Last Dragon on March 5.Raya and the Last Dragon will launch on Disney+ at the same time it launches in theaters.A price change was not mentioned, so it seems it will be a flat $30 fee to unlock just as Mulan was.The pandemic and the continued closure of theaters in many markets have pushed back movie releases long enough, and Disney will be launching Raya and the Last Dragon on March 5 as a Disney+ Premier Access title, the same day it releases in theaters. Like the previous Premier Access movie, Mulan, Raya will be a one-time $30 upcharge fee that unlocks the movie for as long as you subscribe to the service.Raya's first theatrical trailer launched back in October and gave us an adorably badass look at one of our two title characters as well as her rotund sidekick, Tuk Tuk, which goes from tiny trap-springer to massive mount over the course of Raya's training to become a proud warrior. We go...
Protect your Google Pixel 4a with these heavy duty cases
One of the best phones of 2020 for performance, cameras, and price, the Google Pixel 4a also has a minimalist design that will still comfortably fit in one hand with a thick case. So we've made sure to find the most hardcore protective cases available that will keep it dent- and scratch-free without blocking the rear fingerprint sensor. You'll find screen protectors, corner cushions, kickstand, and other defensive perks with the best heavy-duty Pixel 4a cases available today.Slender defenseSpigen Rugged ArmorStaff PickDespite its "rugged" moniker, this case is more compact than most heavy-duty cases while still reliably cushioning your Pixel 4a from falls. It protects your phone without detracting from its light, easy-to-hold design, and has some stylish texture on the back as well.$12 at AmazonTotal protectionPoetic RevolutionThis case bundles two front frames for people who either prefer a screen protector or keeping your display au naturel. The rubber cas...
How to watch The Game Awards 2020
Start streaming online around the world from your favorite social media platforms.What you need to knowThe Game Awards airs tonight at 7pm ET with a pre-show beginning at 6:30pm.You can watch it on Twitch, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook Live, and more.There will be 12-15 new game reveals.Nominees for Game of the Year include The Last of Us Part 2, Ghost of Tsushima, Hades, Doom Eternal, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons.The Game Awards are happening tonight and it's sure to be a big show. Geoff Keighley has already stated that fans can expect anywhere from around 12-15 new game announcements, and some of the biggest stars in Hollywood and games will be presenting awards. Keanu Reeves, Christopher Nolan, Gal Gadot, Brie Larson, and Tom Holland are just a few of the celebrities set to make an appearance. The fun starts at 7pm ET, but the pre-show will begin half an hour earlier.How to watch The Game Awards 2020You can tune in to The Game Awards be...
X-Mode has come under fire for its shady location sharing practices
Android and iOS apps will not be able to use X-Mode location data much longer.What you need to knowGoogle and Apple now prohibiting developers from using X-Mode's tracking software.X-Mode is under scrutiny for its work with government and law enforcement agencies.Developers on Android have one week to remove the code from their apps; iOS developers have up to two weeks.According to the Wall Street Journal, both Alphabet/Google and Apple have announced that they will no longer allow developers to use the location tracking information provided by X-Mode Social Inc. in apps running on their Android or iOS platforms.X-Mode creates location tracking software widely used by app developers and various government agencies, corporations, and law enforcement. The company has come under intense scrutiny recently, specifically for its security and defense contracts. It is currently under investigation by U.S. Senator Ron Wyden's office as well as from media outlets such as The Wall S...
OPPO shines brightly with the launch of the Reno 5 series in China
OPPO's new smartphone can glow in the dark!What you need to knowOPPO has just released its Reno 5 series smartphones in China.Both the Reno 5 and Reno 5 Pro offer minimal upgrades to the cameras and connectivity options.The OPPO Reno 5 Pro features a MediaTek chipset and fluorescent coating on the camera bump.The OPPO Reno 4 smartphones were initially released only in June of this year, but the successors have already made their way just in time for the year's end. OPPO has launched the Reno 5 series smartphones in China, featuring updated designs and few spec bumps.While the Reno5 will stick with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G found in its predecessor, the Reno 5 Pro switches to MediaTek Dimensity 1000+, perhaps as a cost-saving measure. On the display side, the FullHD+ OLED panels are largely unchanged from the Reno 4 counterparts, save for the bump to a 90Hz refresh rate on the entry-level model to match the Pro. The fingerprint sensor is be embedded into the display, wh...
Arizona Sunshine heads back to the trailer park with a new horde mode map
It's coming to the Oculus Quest family first.What you need to knowA new horde mode map is available on December 15, 2020 for free for all Arizona Sunshine players on Oculus Quest 1 and 2.This map takes place in the iconic trailer park location from the single-player portion of the game.This update will be coming to PC VR platforms and PSVR sometime in early 2021.Fans of Arizona Sunshine's horde mode are about to be even happier thanks to the release of a brand new free horde mode map that takes place in the game's iconic trailer park location. Gamers who have fought through the single-player campaign will likely be familiar with the setting, which will now see up to four players trying to survive wave after wave of zombies while racking up the loot for as long as they can.This free new horde mode map is launching exclusively on the Oculus Quest family of devices on December 15, 2020 with specific enhancements for the Oculus Quest 2. PC VR and PSVR Arizona Sunshine players...
The SanDisk® Ixpand® Wireless Charger Sync charges and backs up your phone
Wireless chargers are all the rage right now, and for good reason. They're super convenient to use, offer solid charging speeds, and work with a range of phones. But what if they could go a step further? Well, now they can.A multi-functional wireless chargerSanDIsk Ixpand Wireless Charger Sync$99.99 at Western DigitalWirelessly charge and backup your photosThe SanDisk Ixpand Wireless Charger Sync not only keeps your phone topped up, but also makes sure your photos are backed up.The SanDisk Ixpand Wireless Charger Sync not only keeps your phone nice and charged up, but it backs up your Qi™-compatible phone in the process. That's right, when you put your Qi-compatible smartphone on this Ixpand charger, it'll create a local backup of your photos and videos in full resolution.1 You don't have to do anything more after setup.The SanDisk Ixpand Wireless Charger Sync isn't the only way to back up your phone, but it's by far one of the most convenient. Sure, you could u...
Enjoy your commute or downtime with one of these casual games for Android
The perfect cure for a rainy day or your morning transit commute.Not everyone wants to commit hours of their day to playing games on their phones. That's why casual games exist! These games have proven wildly successful, championed by iconic mobile games such as Angry Birds and Candy Crush Saga. They're designed to be played on the go and at your own pace — as laid back or competitive as you want.Most casual games are free, offering in-app purchases and some ads. Some may cost you a dollar or two, but they're worth it. We've collected some of our favorites from the past, along with some newer games that are great to keep on your phone for a little gaming break during your day.The gamesSuper Mario RunAlto's Odyssey The Battle for PolytopiaReignsTwo DotsSmash HitBlekPiano Tiles 2Candy Crush SagaFruit Ninja FreeAngry Birds 2New Words With FriendsBattlelands RoyaleMini MetroCall of Duty: MobileTransmissionData WingChessplodeAI Factory LimitedAmong UsBrawl...
Stadia might be the best way for you to play Cyberpunk 2077 right now
This game presents a real opportunity for Stadia to appeal to a lot more players.Despite a lot of reported problems with certain versions of Cyberpunk 2077, Stadia's version is looking pretty good. CD Projekt RED's latest RPG epic released to mostly positive reviews this week and seems to be a success, already capping off a big week of new releases for Stadia.Even though Cyberpunk 2077 isn't officially out on PS5 and Xbox Series X just yet, when gamers play the PS4 or Xbox One version on the respective next-generation console, they're able to enjoy a high-quality experience for the most part that is comparable to the PC version. However, if you're playing on an actual original PS4 or Xbox One, of which there are millions of consumers out there that still use those consoles, the results are downright messy.When you combine this with the high recommended specs for Cyberpunk 2077 on PC, as well as the impossibility of getting a new PS5 or Xbox Series X right now, options are limit...
The Galaxy Tab S7+ is the best Android tablet you can buy right now
The best Android tablet available right now is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7. It has a big screen, high-end specs, tons of features, a stylus, and support for a full keyboard. It's pricy, and not the right pick for anyone who wants a smaller and more portable tablet, but as an all-around device, it can't be beat. For those who have different needs (or budgets), there are a few other picks that work just well for media consumption and won't break the bank.The best Android tablets at a glanceSamsung Galaxy Tab S7 — Best Overall: An incredible display and equally impressive specs.Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ — Best Upgrade Pick: An even larger AMOLED display and all-day battery.Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite — Productivity for Less: Buy it when it's on sale.Samsung Galaxy Tab S5e — Midrange Option: An even more accessible tablet for tighter budgets.Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 — Low-Budget: A great option for first-time buyers with basic needs.Amazon Fire HD 10 — Big on a Small Budget:...
Hide that hideous home office with a custom background in Google Meet
How many times have you jumped onto a Google Meet call, terribly embarrassed by the state of your "home office" or whatever room you were able to commandeer for a work call? It's happened to me more times than I can count. Thankfully, you can now change and customize your background in Google Meet — even before the call begins — so you can hide those piles of laundry and takeout containers and make people think you're in a chic coffee shop or secluded beach setting. I'll show you how in the steps below.Products used in this guideWelcoming webcam: Logitech Brio 4K Webcam ($200 at Best Buy)Meet me anywhere: Google Meet (Free at Google Play)How to change your background in Google MeetFrom your browser, open or create a Google Meet link.Before joining the call, click on the avatar icon at the bottom right of your video feed.This opens a background picker with over a dozen pre-populated background options. Click through them to see which you like best.Click on the f...
These are the best shooting action games for Android
Spill some blood with the best Android shooters currently on the market.Professional and/or competitive shooter games are fast becoming a sustainable industry trend for mobile gaming. Both game development and smartphone hardware reaching the point where phones can absolutely deliver top-notch gaming experiences — even for first-person shooters.This still probably sounds like crazy talk to traditional PC gamers but the fact is mobile shooters have cut out a nice niche within the pro-gaming community — franchises such as PUBG Mobile and Guns of Boom have competitive esports leagues that can be advantageous to people who love to stream or try playing for cash in a tournament. Just like other online games for console or PC, mobile games reward teams who can practice and train together — or you can just jump into the game and have some fun on your phone.And if you're looking for something a bit less violent, check out our favorite Android games of 2020!The gamesCall of...
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Accessorize your Google Pixel 4a with nothing but the best!
The Google Pixel 4a is the runaway leader if you're looking for a great budget phone right now. The phone delivers decent hardware backed by a flagship-tier camera, clean software, and fast updates. You'll therefore need to pair it with similarly-great accessories. So if you are looking for a case, screen protector, power bank, or other accessories for your Pixel 4a, you've come to the right place.The right choiceGoogle Fabric CaseStaff PickGoogle's fabric cases are the ideal way to protect your Pixel 4a. The fabric finish feels much better than a regular case, and this year it's made out of recycled bottles and is machine washable. The best part? The attractive color options add much-needed flair to the Pixel 4a.$40 at Amazon$40 at Best Buy$40 at B&H PhotoTiny powerhouseAukey Minima 18W USB PD Fast ChargerThis minuscule charger delivers a consistent 18W charge over USB PD, making it the ideal choice for your Pixel 4a. The charger has a dozen built-in safegu...
Cyberpunk 2077 isn’t looking great on Xbox One and PS4 consoles
Cyberpunk 2077 isn't ideal on these seven-year-old systems.Hotly-anticipated RPG Cyberpunk 2077 has launched worldwide, but its Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions appear to be causing some early issues, especially for those with the seven-year-old base consoles. CD Projekt Red's latest, while positively received among reviewers, also comes with some well-documented bugs littered throughout its world. While few issues appear game-breaking, mostly lacking the expected polish from modern blockbuster releases, it's worth staying wary of its current launch state. But for those still rocking 2013 hardware, its ambition premise appears to be far from ideal on Xbox One and PS4.Cyberpunk 2077 is a cross-generation title, which sees the game launching on Xbox One and PS4 consoles, in tandem with Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 availability. While formal next-gen versions launch in 2021, those on the new consoles can still experience title-wide benefits through their respective backward-...
Google Search to start showing knowledge panel on COVID-19 vaccines
The panel will be piloted in the U.K. initially but will expand to other countries in the future.What you need to knowGoogle is modifying its search engine to offer more accurate information about COVID-19 vaccines.A new knowledge panel will show locally relevant information about approved vaccine candidates and more.The panel will first launch in the U.K., followed by other countries as they also begin approving different vaccines.As COVID-19 vaccines take center stage in the popular discourse, it's more important than ever to combat misinformation campaigns about the potentially life-saving cures, especially as apprehension over possible side effects raises concerns. To that end, Google has promised to use its search engine to provide a source of authoritative, up-to-date, and locally relevant information about potential COVID-19 vaccines.The feature will first launch in the U.K., with Google's blog post describing it as follows: Beginning in the United Kingdom, we'...
Looking for an affordable office chair? Look no further!
Everyone who works in an office setting, be it a corporate cubicle farm, a mom and pop shop, or working from a home office, knows that having a good office chair can make all the difference toward good posture and chronic pain. Unfortunately, not all of us have tons of cash lying around to invest in a $1,400 Herman Miller Aeron chair, especially after spending money on a good office desk to go with it (unless you use a lap desk!) We've compiled a list of some of the best office chairs under $100 (or slightly over, as pricing fluctuates) that you can find. Our top pick is the Neo Chair Marvel Avengers Headrest Office Chair. Not only does it look cool, but it also has great support and ventilation for a fair price.Best Overall Office Chair under $100: Neo Chair Marvel Avengers Headrest Office ChairMaybe it's just me, but when I have to sit down in a leather chair for hours on end, my end gets a little overheated. Too much information? Maybe, butt I'm sure I'm not alone. That's wh...
How to watch Silent Night - A Song for the World live from anywhere
The CW's "Silent Night - A Song for the World," is a musical documentary about the creation of one of the most famous Christmas songs. This exciting rendition will feature Hugh Bonneville, Kelly Clarkson, David Foster, Katharine McPhee, Josh Groban, John Rhys-Davies, Joss Stone, Randy Jackson and Gavin Rossdale, to name a few. We're seeing a lot of excitement for Kelly Clarkson's version of Silent Night, so here's how to watch it live on CW from anywhere.Silent Night was written and composed over 200 years ago by Joseph Mohr and Franz Gruber, in 1818, inspiring many as a message of hope and peace. So much, in fact, that it's one of the most popular singles of all time and has also been translated into more than 350+ languages.Did you know this song was so special it caused a Christmas ceasefire during World War I? Now that's one powerful and moving song! CW will premiere this documentary twice in December and you won't want to miss it. They have special appearances by actor Rhys-...
Great text and photo prints start with the right printing paper choice
Today, the market is awash with printer paper engineered for various uses. Picking the right printing paper to meet your needs, even for seasoned printers, can be a daunting task. But there's a growing need to do so, especially with more people working from home.There are papers purely optimized for inkjet or laser printers, and papers that work with both as well as devices like all-in-one printers. To help you find the right printer paper, we have reviewed the best printer paper available today. HP Printer Paper, Premium24 is our top pick. Weighing 24 pounds a ream, the paper is heavy, thick and smooth enough for both laser and inkjet printingBest Overall: HP Printer Paper, Premium24Inkjet printers recreate text and image prints by spraying wet or liquid ink onto a paper. To create smudge-free prints, you ought to use a thick and fast-absorbing paper. On the other hand, laser printers print by melting the toner onto the paper. The ideal laser printing paper has to withstand ...
Google's latest AI ethics controversy is a product of its own hubris
Even if Google is in the right when it comes to the departure of its best ethical AI researcher, the company looks very bad.Recently, Dr. Timnit Gebru, recognized as one of the best ethical AI researchers Google had ever hired, parted ways with the company. It wasn't a very cordial breakup, either.It all stems from a paper Gebru was intending to present at a computer science conference in March 2021 about ethics in AI — the kinds of things Android uses inside the best phones every day. Google claims it requires 14 working days to approve any writing or presentations of this type if an employee advertises themself as working for Google. This is so the company has a chance to make sure all the data about it is correct and current. That isn't a bad thing and most companies will have similar policies surrounding research papers.Where things differ is how each side portrays what happened next.Dr. Timnit GebruGebru says that there really isn't any hard and fast policy about res...
Google rolls back a buggy update that stopped people from sending texts
An update to the Carrier Services app is reportedly the cause.Update, December 10 (10:00 am ET): Google has rolled back the buggy Carrier Services update.What you need to knowMany Android users are reporting issues with SMS messages.Some are unable to send or receive messages entirely, while others report long delays when texting.Google's Carrier Services app is seemingly to blame.Many Android users have reported facing SMS issues over the last couple of days. From Reddit to OnePlus' support forums to the Google Play Store, a number of users, with phones from a variety of Android manufacturers, are experiencing either long delays while texting or are simply unable to send or receive SMS messages.The problem's origins can reportedly be traced back to a November 23 update to Google's Carrier Services app, which powers a lot of the carrier-related services on your phone. Users experiencing these issues have suggested that deleting the app from your phone may be a temporary...
Antitrust investigation looks at Oculus headsets being linked to Facebook
Facebook's most controversial decision regarding Oculus hardware is being investigated in an antitrust case.What you need to knowFacebook is being investigated in Germany for forcing a link between Oculus VR headsets and Facebook accounts.New Oculus hardware currently requires a Facebook account.46 US states recently filed a separate lawsuit against Facebook regarding potential antitrust issues.Facebook is under investigation for potential antitrust issues surrounding its Oculus virtual reality headsets. Germany's Federal Cartel Office, also known as the Bundeskartellamt, initiated proceedings against Facebook earlier today. The aim of the proceedings is to "examine the linkage between Oculus virtual reality products and the social network and Facebook platform" (via Tech Crunch).Facebook announced earlier this year that Oculus headsets would require a Facebook account. Additionally, Facebook announced that it would end support for Oculus accounts in 2023, meaning that ev...
Xiaomi's latest Apple Watch clone has built-in GPS, 11 sport modes
While it doesn't have an original design, the Mi Watch Lite offers great value.What you need to knowXiaomi has introduced an affordable new smartwatch for global markets.The Mi Watch Lite is based on the Redmi Watch, which was launched in China last month.It comes with a 1.4-inch color screen, 11 workout modes, built-in GPS, and a 230mAh battery.Xiaomi's Redmi sub-brand launched its first smartwatch last month, alongside new Redmi Note 9 series phones. While the Redmi Watch is currently exclusive to China, Xiaomi today announced a new watch based on Redmi's first smartwatch for global markets.Just like the Mi Watch, which was launched last year, the new Mi Watch Lite has a very similar design to the Apple Watch. It features a 1.4-inch 320 x 320 TFT color display with automatic brightness adjustment and over 120 themed watch faces.While it obviously isn't as impressive as the best Android smartwatches when it comes to activity tracking, the Mi Watch Lite does offer 11 ...
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