Latest from Android Central

Chatting with the AC forums.Depending on which cellular carrier you use and the infrastructure in your area, LTE and 5G mobile broadband speeds can vary wildly across the United States. As consumers, there is not much we can do about it, save for complaining to the mobile companies and our elected officials. However, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is interested in getting a better picture of mobile broadband coverage in the U.S. and is asking people to use its speed test app to help us, and them, learn more about the different speeds available across the country. The idea is that the information collected will help push to improve coverage for all citizens.This isn't the first speed test app ever released, but it does aim to serve a greater purpose than just letting you know if you can download that game or stream that movie. The app has been a popular discussion topic on the AC forums recently: belodion 04-12-2021 07:...

We tested several of the best antivirus apps on Android cellphones and tablets to learn which offer excellent malware protection without causing too much drag on your device. Bitdefender Mobile Security is the overall best. In fact, it's my top pick for Windows and Mac antivirus, too. Bitdefender ranks high for malware protection, doesn't use too many resources, and includes a few extra tools. It's also an overall good value.Bitdefender Mobile SecurityBest overall antivirus for AndroidBitdefender seems to do just about everything you'd need. It stops malware attacks and has web protection that warns of dangerous websites before you visit them. This app uses power management to use little of your phone's battery to avoid slowdown.With this app, you can also remotely access your phone to wipe data, lock it down, or send a message to the device. You can also locate it with this feature, and connects it to your Android smartwatch to help remind you to grab your phone or locate ...

Move over Galaxy S20 FE — we have a new all-around Android champion.With Ultra, Pro, and foldable phones pushing up the high-end of the Android spectrum and sub-$400 budget phones getting better and better, an interesting category has emerged over the past year or so — the value flagship segment. Once an area dominated, if not solely occupied, by OnePlus, this category has seen an influx of challengers from the likes of Samsung, Google, and Apple over the last 18 months with phones like the Galaxy S20 FE, Pixel 5, and iPhone 12 garnering all of the attention and praise. But with the launch of the 9 series, OnePlus just may have clawed its way back to claim its crown.As you'll see here and in our OnePlus 9 Pro review, the company has created a series of phones that are more than good enough to turn OnePlus into a household name. The phones continue to have excellent styling, screens, and software, and they've finally made the leap with their camera capabilities. After usin...

The smaller, the better.While many folks looking for a new phone will immediately race to the biggest and fanciest new flagship around, the Galaxy S20 Ultra is just too much in size, price, and problems. While the Galaxy S20+ is a more reasonable phone, as a busy woman with small hands, it's too big to use one-handed, too big for my pockets, and too big my shoulder holster.Thankfully, the "baby" Galaxy S20 is just a few hairs bigger than the Galaxy S10, and between the generous battery, a Lindt Chocolate-smooth 120Hz screen, and the most significant camera upgrade in Galaxy history, the Galaxy S20 is without a doubt one of the best Android phones of 2020 for non-Pixel-purists — and especially for women and small phone enthusiasts.I've had my Galaxy S20 for a year now, and while I have some very, very tiny hang-ups with the phone, none take away from the great experience I've had with it.Galaxy S20 reviewPrice & availabilityHardware and designDisplayBattery life...

Sony steps up the Xperia 1 III cameras and display.What you need to knowSony has announced the Xperia 1 III with the first 4K 120Hz display on a smartphone.The Xperia 1 III and 5 III also come equipped with the first telephoto lens with Dual PD variable optics for different focal lengths.The device will be available this summer, along with the Xperia 10 III.Sony has done it again. While it's not quite the smartphone powerhouse as other OEMs like Samsung, the company does manage to produce impressive flagship smartphones. Last year's Xperia 1 II brought all the right refinements to the design, cameras, and overall experience, although it was hindered by the lack of a high refresh-rate display. Well, it's a new decade, and Sony is out to prove that it can provide the best display on a smartphone with the new Xperia 1 III.You'll notice that the boxy design is largely unchanged from last year's flagship model, offering a tall 21:9 aspect ration display flanked by two sizeab...

Kids will now see their five most-watched titles and characters at the top of the screen in the "favorites" row.What you need to knowNetflix has redesigned its Kids profiles to be more visually appealing.Instead of Trending shows, the top row on the home screen now shows the kid's most-watched shows.The revamped Kids profiles are now rolling out to Smart TVs globally. Netflix has overhauled its Kids profiles to make it easier for children to easily find their favorite shows and characters right from the home screen.Until now, the layout for the Kids' profile was not very different from adult profiles. The top rows showed all the trending shows, along with other suggested content. Now, however, kids will see a row of their most-watched shows on the home screen with popular characters from those shows appearing right above the title boxes. Netflix customizes the favorites row for each kid using their watch history, and titles that are featured come from its full catalog, n...

All three major carriers in the U.S. offer unlimited cell phone data plans. But which is the best?The big three networks in the United States, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, all offer at least one unlimited cell phone data plan. That's important for power data users as well as anyone who uses their mobile broadband internet as their sole way for staying in touch with friends and family or for entertainment. These days, many of us just don't have time to wait around for slower data.But just because all carriers offer unlimited data, it doesn't mean that all plans are created equal. Pricing is important, as are "extras" like tethering and the hidden data cap that pushes you back to slower speeds once you reach it. And of course, zero-rating means we have to pay attention to what unlimited means when it comes to the quality of streaming media as well as the source. It is also worth keeping in mind that many of the best MVNO carriers offer unlimited data for a lower price. Let's ta...

Yet another massive update for the Oculus Quest 2.What you need to know120Hz mode can now be enabled in experimental options, making VR even smoother.Oculus Link can soon be used wirelessly on fast Wi-Fi networks, enabling native wireless PC VR gaming.Oculus Home can now track keyboards and add your desk in VR for a better work from home experience.Facebook continues to spoil Oculus Quest 2 owners with another massive new firmware update, this time the April Quest 2 v28 update. First off, the official addition of 120Hz support, which was teased by Oculus CTO John Carmack back in November. 120Hz is a substantial upgrade over the current 90Hz maximum refresh rate that many of the best Quest 2 games support, meaning games that support this new higher refresh rate will look and feel even smoother than before.There's no telling just how many developers will use 120Hz, as that refresh rate increase likely means games will need to significantly alter graphics quality in order to...

ZTE has entered the flagship conversation with the Axon 30 UltraWhat you need to knowLeaked renders show off the ZTE Axon 30 Ultra from every angle.The phone will sport a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate.There's a new focus on cameras with triple 64MP sensors and an 8MP telephoto lens.While Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus duke it out for the title of best Android phone so far in 2021, ZTE is gearing up to throw its hat in the ring. Evan Blass has shared a series of official press renders showing off the ZTE Axon 30 Ultra, which brings another enormous camera module to the conversation.Blass states that the Ultra will feature a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with those waterfall-curved edges on the sides. This could be a contender for one of the best gaming phones, thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate, which is a bump up from the new 120Hz standard for flagships.Under the hood, there's not too much of a surprise, as the Snapdragon 888 will be powering ZTE's flagsh...

U.S. carriers are apparently still committed to RCS.What you need to knowU.S. carriers have reportedly ended their joint CCMI.The initiative was supposed to result in the launch of a cross-carrier RCS app.T-Mobile has arguably been the largest proponent of Google's RCS efforts.RCS isn't dead, but the joint effort to make it more widespread in the U.S. has reportedly been killed off. According to a report from Light Reading, the Cross Carrier Messaging Initiative (CCMI) is no more after failing to produce anything meaningful in the past year.CCMI was the joint effort by T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T to get RCS off the ground with a messaging app that would work seamlessly between the different networks. The initiative was formed in what seemed like opposition to Google's efforts to push RCS on Android with one of the best text messaging apps. The carriers planned to produce something in 2020, but as we can see, it never materialized.The folks over at Light Reading spok...

A new Galaxy is on the way.What you need to knowSamsung has sent out invitations for an upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event.It's unclear what the company is expected to announce, but the invite suggests it's something powerful.The event is scheduled for April 28 and will be live-streamed on Samsung's website.Samsung has just sent out invitations for a Galaxy Unpacked event to occur later this month. This would make it the third Galaxy Unpacked event in four months, although there's not much to go on here. Samsung's biggest announcements for the first half of the year seem to be behind it, but it's always fun to speculate.As it stands, successors to the best foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 aren't expected until later this year, possibly in August, with rumors indicating that the company could launch a mysterious dual-hinge smartphone. Samsung already launched its mixed-bag Galaxy Chromebook back at CES.The most likely suspect would be a new PC, namely the Gal...

Great features on RTOSOnePlus Watch$159 at OnePlusProsOnboard GPSHeart rate and blood oxygen monitoring2 weeks of battery lifeMusic storageMic/speaker supportConsRuns RTOS rather than Wear OSNo support for NFC paymentsLacks always-on display optionWhen you're looking for a budget-friendly smartwatch that offers solid health and fitness tracking, the new OnePlus Watch might catch your eye. It's got the essentials, including onboard GPS, activity/sleep tracking, heart-rate monitoring, two-week battery life, and more. It may not be as advanced as the Versa 3, but it delivers in some important areas.An all-around better OSFitbit Versa 3$230 at AmazonProsGPS, HRM, NFCBlood oxygen monitoring6 days of battery lifeGoogle Assistant & Alexa Built-inMic/speaker supportConsShorter battery life More expensiveMost people in the fitness tracking world are familiar with Fitbit. The company's latest smartwatch, the Versa 3, has many impro...

Ticks every boxTP-Link Archer AX90$300 at AmazonProsFast tri-band Wi-Fi 62.5Gbps WAN/LAN EthernetSet it up with an Android appSupport for OneMesh expansionConsHomeShield requires a paid subscriptionThe TP-Link Archer nails the sci-fi look with a design that looks inspired by Art Deco with a dash of Neo-Futurism. It delivers AX6600 Wireless speeds with eight-stream tri-band Wi-Fi 6 for added capacity in congested areas compared to dual-band. This router also comes with a 2.5Gbps WAN/LAN port for those with a high-speed home network.Fast as lightningNetgear Nighthawk RAX70$297 at AmazonProsFast tri-band Wi-Fi 6Ethernet Link AggregationWorks with Amazon Alexa and Google AssistantSet it up with an Android appConsNo multi-gig EthernetNetgear Armor requires a paid subscriptionThe Netgear Nighthawk RAX70 continues Netgear's handsome spaceship-like design with its six antennas concealed in the wings. This router delivers tri-band Wi-Fi 6...

Google Chrome might be alone in its quest to replace third-party cookies.What you need to knowThird-party web browsers are speaking out against Google's FLoC technology.The Chromium-based browsers and search engines dispute Google's claim that FLoC protects user privacy.FLoC is currently being tested in the Chromium browser engine.Google has been touting its new FLoC technology for some time, explaining how it can help preserve user privacy while giving advertisers similar results to third-party cookies. The technology, which is meant to eventually replace third-party cookies, is currently being tested in Google Chrome, but not everyone is happy about it. Advertisers initially pushed back on the technology, but now some of the best Chrome desktop alternatives that are speaking out against it.In a series of statements, Brave, Vivaldi, and DuckDuckGo are all voicing their concerns over Google's FLoC technology, which groups users into "cohorts" based on similar browsing his...

The best Android video cameras come equipped with all sorts of amazing manual video controls, so why not pair those cameras with the best smartphone gimbals that'll ensure ultra-smooth, cinematic video? With the wide availability of portable, easy-to-use, and best of all, affordable gimbals for your phone, there's no excuse to shoot shaky cam footage — unless you're just a huge fan of The Blair Witch Project or Cloverfield. The DJI OM 4 is the best smartphone gimbal you can buy, but there are plenty of other options to up your next vlog quality.Best Overall: DJI OM 4DJI has long been a major player in the smartphone gimbal space, starting with the original Osmo Mobile. The OM 4 is the latest addition to the lineup, with a dead-simple magnetic design that actually separates the mount from the rest of the gimbal, allowing you to attach your phone in a matter of seconds and get to shooting.You can rotate or reposition your phone for better balance and varying angles if you so ...

Arkane's Deathloop has been pushed back until September, but Outriders is here now and the team have a review of the new shooter. Kojima Productions is rumored to be in talks with Xbox to publish their next game. The also chat about Monster Hunter as Pokémon for "grownups" and take many other wild detours along the way!Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Arkane's Deathloop delayed to September on PS5 | Android CentralSony's stance on game preservation sets the industry backwards | Android CentralOutriders hit with launch day server and connection issues, should be more stable now | Windows CentralOutriders for Xbox review: A genuinely fun looter shooter in spite of itself | Windows CentralKojima Productions reportedly in talks with Xbox to publish next project | Windows Central...

More space to exploreOculus Quest 2 256GB$399 at AmazonProsLots of room for gamesMore affordable than the competitionCons30% more expensive No microSD slot for expandable storageThe Oculus Quest 2 with 256GB of storage gives you enough room for 20-50 Oculus Quest games before running out of space. There's enough space where you can download a movie for offline viewing, but don't go crazy with that since there's no microSD card slot. Beyond that, this version has no exclusive features that the 64GB lacks.Best for PC gamersOculus Quest 2 64GB$299 at AmazonProsCheaperSupports all the same features and games as 256GB modelConsNot enough storage for many newer gamesDeleting games deletes save dataNo microSD slot for expandable storageThe 64GB variant of the Oculus Quest 2 supports all the same features and games as the larger storage version. Since many newer Quest games take up 8GB or more, this version is likely best for gamers who wa...

Your next Chromebook could see an NVIDIA GPU paired with an ARM processorWhat you need to knowNVIDIA is partnering with MediaTek for a new reference line of laptops.This is the first big project for NVIDIA after its acquisition of ARM Limited last year.These laptops are to be designed for Chromium, Linux, and NVIDIA SDKs.Late in 2020, NVIDIA shocked the world by announcing its acquisition of ARM Limited, but until now, we had no real idea of what to expect from this. Sure, NVIDIA is likely to tap ARM to create some new chipsets, but there was also the potential for creating new and innovative graphics cards for desktops and laptops. Today, NVIDIA announced (via XDA Developers) that it is working with MediaTek to "create a new class of notebooks powered by an Arm-based CPU alongside an NVIDIA RTX GPU".This move is only logical considering that ARM processors are going to be skyrocketing even more in popularity with PC makers. Microsoft was one of the first on the scene, bu...

The best cheap true wireless earbuds have become great over the past several years. The ones you typically hear about are super expensive. Still, there are some great budget options out there, such as the Creative Outlier Air V2, which offer fantastic battery life, exceptional comfort, and superb sound quality.Best Overall: Creative Outlier Air V2It's hard to beat the Outlier Air V2 on battery life. Even compared to the best wireless earbuds, they outperform most of them with up to 12 hours of audio playback per charge at default volume. Add another (almost) two charges in the charging case, and you've got over 30 hours of total listening time. The only real downside is that the case doesn't feature wireless charging.Creative based the design on the Outlier Gold, which used different ear tips than the original Outlier Air did, and that move pays dividends in both fit and comfort. It also gives you a better seal to trap in more of the bass and preserve as much of the soundstag...

Exploding batteries are a known risk when it comes to transporting smartphones.What you need to knowVivo has been banned from Hong Kong Air Cargo over a fire incident.Images and videos shared on social media appeared to show pallets containing Vivo phones burst into flames.Vivo is investigating the incident, Vivo phones have been reportedly banned from a Hong Kong Air Cargo, a subsidiary of Hong Kong Airlines, following a fire at a Hong Kong airport this week as reported by Air Cargo World (via Android Authority). The ban also encompasses two other companies, logistics companies Cargo Link Logistics HK Co Ltd and Sky Pacific Logistics HK Co Ltd.The fire was reportedly caused by a shipment of Vivo phones at the airport, with a pallet carrying the devices erupting into flames. It's not clear whether it was due to improper handling by the logistic companies, or a flaw in the phone themselves that caused the conflagration.Vivo Mobile Pallet Catches Fire While Loading in Ca...

Oldie but a goodieRing Video Doorbell Pro$170 at AmazonProsThermal motion detectionAlexa greetingsDual-band Wi-Fi supportLess expensivePre-roll videoConsLess accurate motion detectionPoor Google services integrationNo battery backupRing Video Doorbell Pro has been the best Ring Video Doorbell for years for a reason. Inside its tiny form-factor, it packs a 1080p camera that's always recording, giving you the best look at what's happening (or happened) on your doorstep. It also features Alexa Greetings, which lets it answer itself when you're not around.The upgrade choiceRing Video Doorbell Pro 2$250 at AmazonProsThe most accurate motion detectionBirds-eye view mapsHead-to-toe videoAlexa greetingsDual-band Wi-Fi supportPre-roll videoConsMore expensivePoor Google services integrationNo battery backupRing Video Doorbell Pro 2 retains the original tiny form-factor and improves everything else about the product, including a new h...

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

Microsoft's Surface Duo is now available in 15 countries.What you need to knowMicrosoft today has brought the Surface Duo to ten new countries.These include Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.This expansion is aimed at business customers. Alongside the announcement of the new Surface Laptop 4 today, Microsoft also announced an expansion of the Surface Duo's availability to an additional ten European markets. Announced via the Microsoft blog, these include Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.As reported by Windows Central, Microsoft's Microsoft's Pete Kyriacou said: Across the breadth of form-factors and price points available, from our largest Surface Hub, to our pocket-sized Surface Duo, we remain committed to delivering innovative devices that keep people productive. To this end, we're pleased to share that Surface Duo is now available for busine...

Buying a OnePlus 9 is not exactly as simple as it seems.The OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro have been among the most highly anticipated smartphones of 2021, and for a good reason. Both devices offer great OLED displays, fast charging, and upgraded cameras thanks to Hasselblad and the company's own pledge to better photography. Both these smartphones offer incredible value and can be found at a few different retailers.Unfortunately, buying a OnePlus 9 or 9 Pro isn't exactly as cut and dry as one may think, and there are a few things to consider when purchasing these smartphones. For instance, 5G on these phones is only compatible with T-Mobile and Verizon, so AT&T customers are seemingly out of luck. Additionally, some retailers have limited colorways, and you won't find that fantastic Pine Green color everywhere.Note: OnePlus has delayed the launch of the base 8GB/128GB OnePlus 9 Pro model, so you'll be limited to the more expensive 12GB/256GB model until it becomes available....

If you're still rocking the original Samsung Galaxy Watch or you're thinking of buying one soon, you'll want to make sure it's protected while still looking stylish. The rotating bezel is one of the best features on this watch, so you should keep it in great condition. We've rounded up the best Samsung Galaxy Watch bezel covers and protectors for both the 46mm and 42mm models.Precise fitRingke Samsung Galaxy Watch Bezel Ring Adhesive CoverStaff PickIf you're looking to improve the look of your Galaxy Watch while also protecting the bezel, this product from Ringke is an ideal option. It offers a precise fit, so you'll enjoy a seamless connection between the rotating bezel and the adhesive cover. There are numerous high-quality selections available that come in different styles and colors.$15 at Amazon (46mm) $15 at Amazon (42mm)Two for oneJZK Samsung Galaxy Watch Bezel Ring Styling + Protector CaseIf you want to protect every inch of your Samsung Galaxy Watch...

Millions of people use Chromebooks, but despite their simple and "for everyone" nature, not every power feature is easy to access. All the best Chromebooks are powerful tools that are just waiting to be used to their full potential, and once you know a few tricks, you'll feel like you're getting even more value out of your inexpensive computer. We've rounded up over 20 tips and tricks for you to try on your Chromebook so that you can start making the most of your machine.Chromebook Tips and Tricks:Use third-party DNSType in UnicodeUse Chrome OverviewKeyboard ShortcutsRefresh Google DriveChromebook PerksMove the ShelfUse an SD card for Extra StorageShow Hidden Files and FoldersShare Your Chromebook SafelyDo a Barrel RollTake a ScreenshotUse App ShortcutsSee Your System InfoUse Powerwash to Clean UpOpen New Tabs EasilyLove the LauncherOpen Apps QuicklyControl Your Open WindowsGet Organized With FoldersTURN ON CAPS LOCKLocking Things DownControl Your Notific...

Aloy joins the fray!What you need to knowPlayStation has announced that Horizon Zero Dawn's Aloy will be joining Fortnite as a playable character.A special Aloy Cup and Limited Time Mode will also be happening this week to celebrate the inclusion. Aloy will be available for purchase in Fortnite's Item Shop starting on April 15. Horizon Zero Dawn's Aloy will officially be making her way into Fortnite during it's Primal Season, PlayStation announced earlier today.In an announcement made over on the PlayStation Blog, the company confirmed that Aloy will be joining Fortnite this week, when she'll land in the store on April 15. Alongside the Aloy skin, players will also get a Blaze Canister Back Bling, Glinthawk Glider, and Aloy's Spear Pickaxe in the pack. To go along with her inclusion, Fortnite will be hosting a special Aloy Cup as well as a Limited Time Mode titled "Team Up! Aloy & Lara."The game mode will automatically outfit players as either Aloy or Lara and drop ...

Spotify's dabbling in hardware a little now.What you need to knowSpotify today launched Car Thing, its first hardware product.It's a voice and touch-optimized Spotify player for your car.Car Thing is currently available in the U.S. on an invite-only basis while supplies last. Spotify today launched its first hardware product, a smart player for your car. It's appropriately named Car Thing, and is meant to augment your car's infotainment system, not replace it.Spotify presents it as a way to bring the Android Auto or CarPlay experience to people who have older or less modern cars, stressing that "no matter the year or model of your vehicle, we feel everyone should have a superior listening experience."Car Thing can be controlled with voice, touch, or its dial. If you've got Hey Spotify on your Android phone, you should expect a similar experience with voice on Car Thing. On the other hand, touch is used for more granular navigation. Like with Amazon's newly released car ...

Packing it all inSamsung Galaxy Buds Pro$190 at Amazon $190 at Best Buy $190 at B&HProsBolder soundSolid ANC performanceDynamic ambient mode360-degree audio abilitySignificant water resistanceSmaller charging caseConsTouch controls can be finickyCertain features exclusive to Samsung phonesLower battery life than predecessorsWith these earbuds, Samsung tried to leave nothing to chance, and that's why they feel like a feature-packed pair that finally raises the level of water and sweat resistance. With dynamics in both the active noise cancelation (ANC) and ambient modes, plus excellent sound quality, it's hard to argue against them.Always consistentJabra Elite 85t$230 at Amazon $230 at Best Buy $230 at NeweggProsHybrid ANC Great sound qualityBetter call quality than Elite 75tComfortable fitResponsive controlsWireless charging caseConsBigger size than beforeMono still limited to right earbudMore proprietary ear tipsTaller ...

Transforming nearly any TV into a smart TV is affordable and easy with a Roku streaming stick. These tiny devices plug into your TV's HDMI port to unlock access to a world of streaming services, live TV channels, and other apps that will never leave you without entertainment. While prices are rather comparable to its main competition, the Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku's devices have a few interesting features you won't find on a Fire stick.Roku Premiere - HD/4K/HDR | $33.64 at AmazonStream in 4K or HD with the Roku Premiere. This streaming media device comes with a premium high-speed HDMI cable so you can easily connect it to your TV right out of the box.$33.64 at Amazon $42 at WalmartOnce you've plugged in your new Roku streaming device, you can download the Roku app and use it as a remote or even plug headphones into your phone and listen to what's on TV privately. You'll also gain access to The Roku Channel which offers thousands of free TV shows and movies to watch at yo...

The Galaxy Quantum 2 is rumored to launch globally as the Galaxy A82.What you need to knowSamsung has announced the Galaxy Quantum 2.It is a successor to last year's Galaxy A Quantum and features a quantum cryptography chipset for enhanced security. The Galaxy Quantum 2 comes with a 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 855+ chipset. Samsung and South Korea's SK Telecom today unveiled the Galaxy Quantum 2, a premium mid-range Android phone that comes with a quantum cryptography chipset for additional security. It is a follow-up to the Galaxy A Quantum, which was launched in South Korea in May last year.Surprisingly, the Galaxy Quantum 2 is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 855+ processor, which was announced in late 2018 and powered the best Android phones released in 2019. The rest of its specs, however, are quite impressive. You get a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a centered hole-punch cutout, QHD+ resolution, and the same 120Hz refresh rate as the...

Finding the best Android Auto USB-C cables is pretty straightforward as you don't want to use the same one that comes with your phone. The cable needs to be able to withstand bends, sudden removals, spills, and so much more. Whether you are learning how to use Android Auto for the first time, or are a seasoned veteran, everyone needs to get a new cable sometimes. We have found some of the best USB-C cables that you can get for Android Auto.Perfect optionAnker Nylon USB-C to USB-C CableStaff PickAnker's charging cables are practically unmatched in terms of quality and value. This Nylon USB-C cable is extremely impressive with the braided nylon exterior, which is said to last for more than 12,000 bends along with being offered in a few different colors and sizes.$13 at AmazonAngled connectionsAUKEY Right Angle USB C to USB A Braided CableSometimes you can't use the traditional charging cable as it sticks out too far, and you need something that can fit into a ...

Master your windows and up your productivity with dual-screen living.No matter how great the screens on the best Chromebooks are, they're still only at 15.6-inch screens at most, and when you're working from home, that's never enough. Thankfully, it's easy enough to snag a great monitor for your Chromebook without breaking the bank and adding a second screen to your Chromebook allows you to spread all your windows out and hopefully get more done. At the very least, having a second screen will let you keep the distractions on one screen and your work on the other. If you need help getting your windows properly placed among your screens, here's how to ensure you're dual-screening right.Check your monitor arrangement and settingsWhile you know what order your physical laptop and monitor are set in, your Chromebook doesn't, so if you have the monitor set to the left of your Chromebook, you'll need to re-arrange them in the Chrome OS display settings. If you haven't read our easy-to...

The TicWatch GTH can tell you how hot you are.What you need to knowMobvoi announced the global launch of its TicWatch GTH.The smartwatch features an Apple Watch-like square design and a 10-day battery life.The TicWatch GTH will be available starting today for $80.When it comes to the best Android smartwatches, Mobvoi is undoubtedly near the top. The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS offers the best that Wear OS has to offer with good battery life and snappy performance. The company has decided to switch things up a bit by offering a new smartwatch more focused on health features and extended battery life. That brings us to the Mobvoi TicWatch GTH, which is receiving its global launch today.The TicWatch GTH moves away from Mobvoi's usual circular smartwatch designs to offer a style akin to the Apple Watch Series 6 or OPPO Watch. The 1.55-inch display sits under 2.5D curved glass on a moral watch case that features a 5ATM waterproof rating, so you can bring it with you on your sw...

Even in a world of USB ports and wireless charging pads, you can't escape the necessity that is batteries. Even if you don't use them as much, you definitely use them. TV remotes, game controllers, and kids' toys all have batteries. Instead of wasting dozens of dollars on batteries you can't reuse, grab a Panasonic Eneloop Power Pack with some rechargeable batteries. Right now on Amazon you can get the Panasonic Eneloop Power Pack with eight AA batteries and four AAA batteries on sale for $37.30 total. This quick charger bundle normally sells for $50, and it hasn't gone on sale this low since 2019. You can get the same pack with four extra AAA batteries for about $10 more if you need more of the smaller batteries since the original bundle only includes four.This is an extremely versatile power pack. The Eneloop quick charge can get your batteries back up to full in less than three hours. It works with both AA and AAA batteries, which is why it actually comes with both. You can char...

At its recent Unpacked event, Samsung unveiled the all-new Galaxy S21 models. If you want to get your hands on one as soon as possible and make a saving, we're here to let you know the best place to pick one up.Best Samsung Galaxy S21 Deals Available NowSamsung Galaxy S21 Deals: Get one for FREESamsung Galaxy S21+ Deals: $200 offSamsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Deals: Save up to $800We've been used to Samsung releasing three S series phones a year for a little while now. Back in 2019, we saw the release of the Galaxy S10e, S10, and S10+, with 2020 giving us the Galaxy S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra. The 2021 lineup follows that trend with Samsung unveiling the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra phones.Though the Samsung Galaxy S21 devices were only just announced, there are a whole bunch of deals already available at this early stage so you can save money while also pocketing the latest flagship device on the market.Best Cheap Samsung Galaxy S21 DealsThe Samsung Galaxy S21 operate...

As you would expect, Lens on the web isn't quite as convenient to use as on mobile.What you need to knowGoogle Lens is finally available on thw web inside Google Photos.Optical character recognition (OCR) is currently the only Google Lens capability that is available in the web version of Photos. It is likely that Google will be adding more Lens capabilities to the web version of Photos in the near future. Google Lens, which is one of the company's best Android apps, is finally available on the web. As spotted by 9to5Google, Google Lens is now live within the Google Photos web client.You can now access Google Lens' optical character recognition (OCR) feature on the web to copy text from images. When you open an image that contains a text in the Google Photos web client, you will see the "Copy text from image" suggestion with the Lens logo and a dismiss button next to controls such as Share and Edit. When you tap on the suggestion, Google Lens will show you all the ...

The update begins rolling out globally tomorrow.What you need to knowSony has announced the first major system software update for its PS5 console.The update will add the ability to transfer your PS5 games to USB extended storage.It will also bring new social features, along with enhanced control and personalization options. The PS5, which is Sony's most powerful console yet, will begin receiving its first major software update tomorrow. Sony says the update is "packed with new features and improvements" and will enhance users' gaming experience on the console.The biggest highlight of the new update is the ability to transfer games from the console's built-in SSD to USB extended storage. It is worth noting that you won't be able to play the best PS5 games directly from USB extended storage, since they are designed to "take advantage of the console's ultra-high-speed SSD." However, you can copy a game back to the console's SSD whenever you want to play. Sony is also workin...

Insane speed and capacityWith so many cheap Wi-Fi 6 routers available, it's easy to miss the routers like the Nighthawk RAX120 that are pushing the limits of what's possible in wireless. The Nighthawk RAX120, also known as the Nighthawk AX12, is named thanks to the 12-stream AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 hardware it's packing under the hood. With eight streams dedicated to 5GHz and 4 for 2.4GHz, the RAX120 can handle four simultaneous full-speed Wi-Fi 6 devices without breaking a sweat.The Nighthawk also packs in six Ethernet ports with one dedicated to the incoming internet connection, one for 2.5Gbps or 5Gbps Ethernet, and four standard gigabit ports. This router can be a killer Wi-FI access point, but the RAX120 should be part of a larger network with a NAS to get the most out of it. Still, on its own, the RAX120 delivers excellent speeds with the hardware it needs to grow with your network in the future.Netgear Nighthawk RAX120 review:Price and availabilityWhat it gets right What c...

If it's time to upgrade your TV to something bigger and better, Woot's big one-day sale on Samsung smart TVs has a bunch of different models to save on today only that you need to check out.All of the TVs in today's sale are offered refurbished and, though they may not be brand new, they've each been inspected and tested to ensure they're in proper working condition. Oftentimes, you can barely notice an item has been used before after it's been refurbished. Plus, Woot includes a 90-day warranty with the purchase.The TVs in today's sale are all on the larger side and are some of Samsung's most premium offerings. One of the most affordable of the bunch is the 85-inch Q60T QLED smart TV which is down to $1,670. This 2020 model regularly sells for around $2,200 brand new these days and has gone for as much as $2,500 in the recent past.It features a Quantum Dot LCD panel, Motion Rate 120 technology, support for HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG HDR formats. It's got apps for all of the streami...

Chatting with the AC forums.As Android users, we're big fans of the standard suite of Google Apps, including Maps, Gmail, and, of course, Google Photos. Not only does Google Photos offer a lot of free storage (though this is changing somewhat), it brings accessible editing tools and fantastic organization as well. But it's not the only option out there. Many people use an alternative to back up their photos, whether that be as a hedge against Google Photos or in place of it altogether. From Amazon Photos to Microsoft OneDrive and DropBox to a home-based NAS solution, there are several solid options to choose from.This little thread on the AC forums got us thinking about photo backups this morning... Android Central Question 04-12-2021 07:43 PM “ Since we need to pay for Google Photos in this June, I wanna ask couple questions. 1. If we pay Google Photos, they will give us unlimited storage or...

OnePlus gets a lot right with its first smartwatch, but it ultimately misses the mark on the software front.OnePlus revealed its vision of building a connected ecosystem of products back in 2019. That was just before the launch of its first TV, the OnePlus Q1 Pro. The TV launched in India to much fanfare, and OnePlus followed it up with the budget-focused 55U1 and entry-level Y series last year.OnePlus also delved into wireless earbuds, rolling out the OnePlus Buds and Buds Z last year, which joined the Bullets Z neckbuds. And earlier this year, OnePlus finally made its debut in the wearable segment with the OnePlus Band, a rebranded OPPO Band that's available exclusively in India.OnePlus is now making further inroads into the wearable category with the launch of its first smartwatch, the OnePlus Watch. The product itself looks identical to the OPPO Watch RX — a smartwatch that OPPO showed off last year but didn't launch. We now know why; that device ended up being the OnePlu...

Google I/O is back, and there are some exciting things we might get this year.After canceling last year's event due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic that we're still in the midst of, Google has decided to go ahead this year with its annual developer conference. Google I/O will be a completely free and fully virtual event where the company will show off some of what it's been working on over the past 12 months or so. While that includes a lot of developer talk, there will also be plenty of consumer-facing products shown off as well. The good thing about Google I/O is that while it's a developer conference, regular folk and tech enthusiasts can enjoy it as well and get an insight into the cool things that may soon reach their phones, computers, or smart speakers. You can take a look at some of the top five features that were announced at Google I/O since 2015 to get an idea of the kinds of announcements and revelations that come from this event.The three-day conference will ho...

Because USB-C Power Delivery allows for higher charging speeds, when you're using the best USB-C charger, you should trust your devices to only the best USB-C cables because when they break, they can fry your device or start a fire. Back in the early days, you had to be extra sure your cables were properly made, but these days USB-C cables have reached a safe, stable standard (for the most part). Whether you need a USB-A port on the other end or you've gone full USB-C to USB-C, there are great, safe USB-C cables to be had out there without spending an arm and a leg!Best USB-C to USB-C cablesTop speedsAnker Powerline II CableStaff PickIf you want the latest spec and the highest data speeds, you want USB 3.1 Gen 2, which can support up to 10Gbps data speeds and up to 100W charging speeds.$22 at Amazon4K readyUSB-IF Certified Cable Matters 10 Gbps Gen 2 USB C to USB C CableThis unassuming black or white cable boasts the 3.2 Gen 2 spec, so it too can support 10Gbps ...

360 Reality Audio support on Android is currently limited to Sony's Xperia phones.What you need to knowGoogle and Sony are working together to bring 360 Reality Audio support to Android devices.Android's MPEG4Extractor system component may gain support for MPEG-H 3D spatial sound codec later this year.Amazon Music HD and Tidal are two of the major music streaming services that support Sony's 360 Reality Audio codecs. Sony's 360 Reality Audio technology, which is currently exclusive to its flagship Xperia phones, could soon be coming to the best Android phones from other OEMs. As reported by the folks over at XDA Developers, code reviews submitted to the Android Open Source Project have revealed that Google and Sony have joined forces to bring 360 Reality Audio support to more Android devices.The two companies are working together to add support for the MPEG-H 3D spatial sound codec to Android's MPEG4Extractor system component and bringing broader 13-channel audio layout s...

UEFA Champions League titleholders Bayern Munich travel to Paris in this quarter-final second leg needing to overturn an aggregate deficit against PSG to avoid elimination. Don't miss a moment with our PSG vs Bayern Munich live stream guide.This quarter-final matchup is a replay of last year's Champions League final, though the first leg provided a different winner with PSG coming out on top in a five-goal thriller.With three away goals plus home-field advantage going into this second leg, the Parisians will be confident that they can topple the German giants. Mauricio Pochettino will hope Kylian Mbappé is on form once again with his two goals in the last leg book-ending the victory.It was a spirited performance from Bayern Munich in the last leg with the Reds coming from 2-0 down to level the game on the hour mark before Mbappé notched his second to seal the win.With elimination a real possibility, Hans-Dieter Flick's side will need to up their game in the French capital i...

From performance problems and server instability to a complete lack of patches, Outriders players on Stadia are getting left in the dust.Maybe in a month or two, things will be better, but as of right now, it's hard to recommend Outriders on Stadia to anybody, and it has nothing to do with the quality of the game itself. At its core, Outriders features an extremely compelling gameplay loop full of looting and shooting that rivals the likes of Borderlands with some of the most inventive and fun-to-play character classes this side of Destiny. There's a full campaign that clocks in at over 25-hours and a robust end-game structure ready and waiting to be farmed for all its worth.But the complete silence from Square Enix and People Can Fly about the outdated and buggy state of the Stadia version over a week after launch makes it hard to put much confidence in the long-term support of the game on Google's cloud platform—even if it could eventually become one of the best Stadia games ...

Another Google Play service bites the dust.What you need to knowGoogle has announced that it is ending support for its Play Movies & TV app on some smart TV platforms.The move comes after the app was renamed on Android smartphones last year.Google Play Movies & TV will retire on several smart TV platforms on June 15, after which purchases can be accessed on YouTube.Google is killing off another app. After Play Music & TV was renamed on the best Android phones last year to Google TV, the company has decided to end support the Play Music & TV app on select smart TV platforms. The change was announced in Google Play support page: Starting 6/15/2021, the Google Play Movies & TV app will no longer be available on Roku, Samsung, LG, and Vizio smart TVs. The YouTube app will be your new home for movies and shows. Just log in with your Google account in the YouTube app today, you'll have access to all of your past purchases, and will be able to browse, purch...

In support of his sixth album Justice, Justin Bieber is taking the stage at the majestic Parisian hotel in Paris, France for a virtual livestream performance that fans from around the world will be able to watch for free. Though this is scheduled to be a rather short set with just five songs, the show will give fans the chance to see the star perform several tracks from his new album live for the very first time.After the performance, YouTube Premium is set to host an exclusive afterparty with Justin; unlike the free virtual concert, only YouTube Premium subscribers will have access to the afterparty event but you can also gain access with a free YouTube Premium trial. While the performance should be available to watch worldwide, you can quickly bypass any location restrictions that won't let you watch due to where you're located by using a VPN.Justin Bieber Live from Paris: When and whereJustin Bieber Live from Paris is airing live this Tuesday, April 13 at 7pm EST / 4pm PS...

One smartphone is curiously missing from LG's Android 12 update list.What you need to knowLG provides a list of smartphones that will receive Android 11, 12, and 13.The list includes devices like the LG Wing, Velvet, and V50 models.The LG V60 is curiously absent from the list of smartphones for Android 12 and 13.Since announcing its departure from the smartphone industry, there have been questions regarding support for LG's current smartphones, and understandably so. LG is not known to have the greatest track record for providing timely (if at all) updates for its smartphones. The company previously stated that it would support certain devices up to three years after their release, but that still left questions about which devices would be supported. Now, we have a better idea of which LG smartphones will continue to receive updates to Android 12 and Android 13.PhoneArena spotted a page on LG's Korean site that provides a list of devices that it expects to update to the n...