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Updated 2025-11-01 03:19
Take your talents online with the Razer Seiren X USB mic on sale for $70
Got a great voice? Got a terrible one? Have a pretty normal one but just have a few opinions you'd like the world to hear? Time to become a content creator and put your audio out there on the internet! The Razer Seiren X professional grade USB streaming microphone is down to $69.99 at Amazon. That's $30 off its regular price and a match for what it was going for on Black Friday. The mic normally sells for around $100, and it has struggled to drop from that price for most of the year. This is the best deal we've seen since last January, and we're almost to the next January!The mic uses a super cardioid pickup pattern. It records sound at a tighter angle, which helps reduce unwanted background noise (like mechanical keyboards) and provides clear, crisp audio. Dampen vibrations from your keyboard and other sounds, too, thanks to the built-in shock mount. A mount like that helps keep those abnormal sound fragments off your video. At the same time, the mic will pick up all the nuances o...
Android TV is getting the Apple TV app so now everyone can watch Ted Lasso
Now you can watch all your Apple TV+ exclusives on your Google TV.What you need to knowGoogle is bringing Apple TV to Android TV devices, starting with Chromecast with Google TV.Android TV users will have access to the suite of channels available through Apple TV.More Android TV devices will be available "in the future".Apple TV is already available on some of the best streaming devices, but now Google is bringing the Apple TV app to its Android TV OS, in a move that would expand both platforms. This comes shortly after Google brought Apple Music service to its Nest Audio speakers.With the addition of the Apple TV app, users will gain access to the various channels available on the Apple TV platform which of course includes Apple TV+. The app is already supported on Sony devices that run Android TV, but the announcement means it will expand beyond those users, such who use Chromecast devices to access Android TV. This way Apple can gain more subscribers, and Android TV us...
These are the best devices for Amazon Alexa that you can buy
We've researched, tested, and reviewed dozens, if not hundreds of devices, and have come up with the following list of what we consider the best Alexa devices. If you don't already have an Echo smart speaker, we recommend you pick up the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) to get started. It sounds great and comes in at a reasonable starting price. Of course, if you already have an Echo and want to see what else is available, well, we've got you covered there too.Best Amazon Alexa Smart Speaker: Amazon Echo (4th Gen)The original Amazon Echo that debuted in late 2014 gave us our first introduction to Alexa, and we've been hooked ever since. What started as a stark, black tube has evolved over three generations to a softer, gentler-looking Alexa vessel, and has spawned an entire line of other Echo devices.This "regular" Echo (4th Gen) is the best of the series yet. It boasts an improved sound architecture over the first three generations, one that it borrowed from the more expensive Echo Stu...
Get your gifts on time by paying attention to Walmart's shipping deadlines
It's that time of year again! The time of the year where you've caught yourself not buying all the Christmas presents you were supposed to buy a month ago. Time for some last-minute shopping! But don't wait too long because if you're ordering online, you're going to run into shipping delays. It's more inevitable than ever before thanks to the global pandemic that has been ruining shipping times all year long. No one wants to get Christmas presents after Christmas, so don't be the one to give them. If you're ordering online from Walmart, the company has outlined exactly when you need to order your goods to get them before Dec. 25.Order onlineWalmart Shipping DeadlinesWhen's the worst time to get gifts you ordered online for Christmas? After Christmas! Don't be that person. Order online from Walmart before these shipping deadlines and make sure you get your stuff on time.Christmas Time is here!Shop at WalmartWalmart has several ways you can get your orders when buying onlin...
Spotify takes NPR podcasts worldwide with new deal
NPR shows are now available to Spotify users worldwide.What you need to knowYou'll now be able to access NPR content worldwide as Spotify expands its partnership.The two had teamed up initially in 2018.Content that'll now be made globally available includes the NPR Politics Podcast, Planet Money, and TED Radio Hour.While still in the music business primarily, it's not a secret that Spotify has been heavily investing in podcasts over the past couple of years. Today, it's landed a huge content coup with its NPR podcasts finally being made available to listeners worldwide.Announcing the move today, Spotify said: For almost 50 years, NPR has served as a daily source of wisdom and entertainment for its American listeners. Every day, millions connect with NPR and NPR Member stations across the country for everything from pop culture podcasts to the nightly news. In 2018 we announced that U.S. fans of NPR would also be able to stream select NPR shows on Spotify, making NPR'...
Facebook looks to skirt EU rules by shifting UK users to US terms
The company hopes to migrate all users in non-EU countries in the future.What you need to knowFacebook this week signaled its intent to move its British users to a user agreement based on US law after Brexit's completion.The move is a clear attempt to avoid the EU's stringent privacy rules, which have already earned the company significant fines.The company eventually plans to move all non-EU countries to the same user agreement and may even consider doing the same for EU users.Facebook's struggles with privacy laws are well-documented, and the company is looking to circumvent the most stringent of these, namely EU's GDPR regulations, by moving its UK users to agreements with its US-based headquarters once Brexit is complete at the end of the year. UK users are currently covered by agreements with Facebook's international HQ, located in Ireland, and are thus protected by GDPR.The company confirmed its intentions in a statement to Reuters earlier this week: Like other ...
Protect unlimited devices for a whole year with IPVanish VPN for just $29
Source: StackCommerceUsing a VPN is essential to stay secure online, but many services place a cap on usage. In contrast, IPVanish VPN offers rock-solid protection and fast connections on unlimited devices. Right now, you can get a one-year subscription for just $29.Whether you want to avoid trackers or simply bypass local restrictions, IPVanish has you covered. This VPN has "a long list of features, including several that you won't often see elsewhere," according to TechRadar.The service spans over 40,000 IP addresses, with 1,600 masking servers in 75 locations. This ensures you remain truly anonymous online, while 256-bit AES encryption keeps your data under wraps.IPVanish offers unthrottled speed, meaning you can enjoy content in HD. You have a choice of VPN protocols, and your subscription includes 250GB of secure cloud storage from SugarSync.You can use IPVanish on all major desktop and mobile platforms, and the company behind the VPN operates a strict "no-logging polic...
Don't break the bank with these Android phones under $200
Believe it or not, there are plenty of great, inexpensive smartphones out there that you may wish to consider, so we've decided to round up the best Android phones under $200. Smartphones that cost $1,000 and more have quickly become commonplace in the market, and for anyone on a budget, those steep prices can quickly induce a headache. If you need a new handset but only have $200 to spend, our favorite one is the Moto G Fast. Today, we're talking about it and seven other phones that bring tremendous value to the low-end space.Best Overall Android Phone Under $200: Moto G FastThe Moto G Fast hits the very top of our $200 budget, and all things considered, it's the best phone you can buy when looking at Android devices this cheap.Regarding the G Fast's hardware, it's built far better than you'd expect for a phone in this price tier. It feels substantial when held, it doesn't rattle or creak, and all of the physical buttons feel very clicky. The 6.4-inch LCD is also good, givin...
Save your stuff and save $20 with the Tile Performance Pack at Best Buy
Best Buy has the Tile Performance Pack 2020 on sale for $39.99. This is $20 off its regular price, and a similar package on Amazon is on sale but only down to $50. Best Buy has the best price around, and the deal comes with two very useful Tile item trackers.Over Black Friday we spotted a couple of Tile deals, and some of them have stuck around. For example, this 4-pack of Tile Stickers is still down to a low price of $40, too. Check out other ways to save on Tile trackers at Best Buy.The packaged bundle includes one Tile Pro and one Tile Slim. The Tile Pro is the smaller, square-shaped Bluetooth tracker. It can be added to your keychain or kept with your electronics or even your luggage. The Tile Slim is the larger rectangle. It's about the size of a credit card and about twice the thickness. Stick that one in your wallet, notebook, or something like that.The Pro is water resistant, can be detected up to 400 feet away, and has a one-year battery that's user replaceable. The Sl...
Google Stadia arrives on iPhone and iPad in new beta
Cyberpunk 2077 on your iPhone? Yes please.What you need to knowA new beta for Google Stadia on iOS is launching today.Customers will be able to play the latest titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Assassin's Creed Valhalla. Google Stadia is today launching a new beta for iPhone and iPad, that will allow users to enjoy the service over Safari.From The Verge: Google Stadia has finally made its way to iOS over a year after launch. The company's mobile web beta for the iPhone and iPad, first announced last month, is launching today. That means any Stadia user on either its free tier or its paid Stadia Pro subscription will be able to access their library of Stadia games on Apple devices. Google, like other competing cloud services, is using mobile Safari due to Apple's restrictions on cloud gaming apps that mean platforms like Stadia can't exist in their current form on the App Store. Unlike Nvidia's GeForce Now or the planned mobile web version of Microsoft's xCloud, howev...
These portable chargers will help your Google Pixel last for the whole day
Considering that it's been more than four years since its release, you're probably looking for the best portable chargers for Google Pixel. The battery is not where it used to be as it once ranked as one of the best Android phones back in the day, so you'll want to keep your phone going through the day with a portable charger. With the right power pack, you'll be able to keep all your devices charged, too!It's all built inZendure A3PDStaff PickWith Power Delivery, Quick Charge 3.0, and a 10,000mAh capacity, the Zendure A3PD packs an impressive punch. This kit also includes a USB-A to microUSB/USB-C cable, perfect for any situation. Plus, when the juice runs out, you can plug it into a wall charger and get back to 100% in about three hours.$30 at Amazon$80 at Best Buy$46 at WalmartPopular choiceAnker PowerCore Slim PDAnker is a big name in the charging space and when you see options like the PowerCore Slim PD, you'll understand why. There are three different char...
Hate the new Instagram update? Check out this app instead
It's designed for developing markets and has a download size of only 2 MB.What you need to knowInstagram today launched a clutter-free version of its app for the Indian market.Dubbed Instagram Lite, the app is designed for developing markets and low-end smartphones.It removes Reels, Shopping, and IGTV from the app for a pure Instagram experience from yesteryear.Having killed the Lite version of its app earlier this year, Instagram is reviving the barebones Instagram experience for developing markets, starting with India (via XDA Developers). Officially announced at a "Facebook Fuel For India" event this week, the app has actually been available on the Play Store since December 9 and has already garnered over 5 million downloads!The app's description reads as follows: The Instagram Lite app is small, fast and works on all networks. Enjoy the best features of INSTA like connecting with friends, sharing what you're up to, or seeing what's new from others all over the wor...
These are the best Roborock vacuums you can get
Keeping your house clean isn't the easiest thing in the world. You have to find the time between running to work, taking care of family, and scheduling in that much-needed downtime. Something that can help keep your home clean is a reliable robot vacuum. I personally go with Roborock since the company creates quality products, like the Roborock S5 Max, which comes with several convenience features while still being incredibly good at cleaning my home. Roborock also offers several other amazing options. Here are the best Roborock vacuums on the market today.Best Overall: Roborock S5 MaxI've had the chance to test the Roborock S5 Max for over 40 hours. Not only is it a powerful unit that can suck up anything from dirt to pet hair, but it also offers plenty of convenience features. From the Roborock app, I can schedule cleaning times, tell the unit which specific room to clean, or put up a no-go barrier telling it to leave a room alone. I have a Corgi and a gray tabby who are cons...
Google's RCS Chat features are now rolling out to the Samsung Messages app
RCS adoption could get a massive boost in the coming months.What you need to knowSamsung's Messages app is starting to receive support for Google's RCS Chat features.You no longer have to install the Google Messages app on your Galaxy phone to use Google's RCS Chat features.Support for Google's RCS Chat features in the stock Samsung messaging app is expected to become widely available within the next few weeks.In April this year, Samsung announced that it was working with Google to bring support for the search giant's RCS Chat implementation to Galaxy phones. Nearly eight months later, Samsung has finally started pushing a new update for its Messages app, adding support for Google's RCS Chat features (via XDA Developers). Until now, Samsung Galaxy users had to install the Google Messages app on their phones to be able to access all of Google's RCS Chat features.As can be seen in the screenshot below by Reddit user ChunkyLoverMark, users will see a new dialog when they i...
Here are tips on how to review your online subscriptions and save money
Be honest — you don't need 10 different streaming services.Chances are you spend a lot more on online subscriptions than you realize. It might sound like only $5 here and $10 there, but it really does add up when you sit down and actually take stock of everything together.I recently went through to review my online subscriptions, and while I wasn't completely thrown for a loop at the final total, it was certainly more than even I had thought.There are ways, however, you can save money by doing things like bundling subscriptions, getting rid of ones you don't use, and consolidating services where possible.Go through your subscriptions, one-by-oneYour online subscriptions used to be reserved to just a cell phone, home Internet, and maybe cable or satellite TV. Now, it includes all of the above (or at least the first two) along with a streaming TV service subscription (probably more than one), streaming music, online storage, apps (games, news, and more), and video game onli...
Get the best Samsung monitors to either get your work done or play games
If you're in the market for a new computer display, you might be hard-pressed to find something better than the best Samsung monitors. The company has long been a leader in the display space, as is evidenced by the screens found on the best Samsung phones. Whether you want something high-end, something with a curve, or just a standard monitor that doesn't cost a lot, we've rounded up the best of the best right here.Gorgeous 4K LEDSamsung UH850Staff PickThis 31.5-inch QLED monitor has a TN panel and 4K resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate, ultimately delivering a stunning, smooth picture. Its sleek design should fit in well on any desk, and if you're a gamer, AMD FreeSync compatibility and a 1ms response time will make your games buttery smooth. Connect with either HDMI or DisplayPort.$529 at Amazon $598 at B&H PhotoBudget with a curveSamsung CR50Considering the budget price, you're getting a lot of curved monitor here. The 27-inch screen has a resolution of 192...
Best Nest deals for December 2020: $25 Nest Mini, routers from $149 & more
Nest makes some of the best smart thermostats, security cameras, and self-installed home security systems out there, but it comes at a price. Some of the equipment can be on the expensive side, which means that you may not be able to have as much of it in your home as you'd like, but we are here to help make it easier to afford more. At times, you can find some pretty sweet deals on a variety of Nest's most popular items.Best Google Nest Deals Available NowNest Thermostats: from $123Nest Wi-Fi: as low as $149Nest Cameras: from $234Smart Speakers & Displays: starting at $25Google Nest Mini | $24.99 at Best BuySave $25 on the Google Nest Mini today at Best Buy. This deal is valid on all colorways of the speaker, though you'll want to shop soon as the 50% discount won't be available forever!$24.99 at Best BuyWhether it's a direct price drop, coupon code, or bundle deal, we've scoured the internet to find all of the best deals around Nest's hardware that are ...
Ditch your smartwatch with Casio's G-Shock 5610 on sale for $77
Smartwatches can be neat, but they also require a lot of maintenance. We're talking batteries that last hours or maybe days at the most. They often need to be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth or an app to get updated and stay in sync. Let's go back to when watches did watch things oh so well. Grab Casio's G-Shock 5610 Quartz men's watch on sale for $77.40. This is a watch that has sold for as much as $140 this year and regularly goes for around $100. While the Casio has been around for a long time, it has rarely ever sold this low with today's price being the best we've seen in more than a year.The Casio watch has a battery that lasts for up to 10 months. You heard that right. Makes you think twice about that fancy smartwatch lasting for 8 hours, doesn't it? Not only will it last 10 months, but it is also solar powered. That means if you spend a little bit of time outside, you can keep wearing it basically indefinitely without even worrying about the battery.It also has multi-band...
Want to gift the Oculus Quest user in your life? Start here
The Oculus Quest 2 is an excellent virtual reality headset that makes it easy to jump into VR. If one of your loved ones loves VR, there are several gifts you can get for them to enhance the VR experience. From giving the headset itself, to gifting games, to sharing some of the best Oculus Quest 2 accessories, there are plenty of ways to spice up someone's holiday in VR. These are also some great gifts for yourself. After a long year, you deserve a treat too, right?Give a gameGifting games through the Oculus StoreStaff pickAs great as accessories and add-ons can be, the core of the Oculus Quest 2 experience is gaming. There are some solid free Oculus Quest games, but most of the best titles cost a few bucks. Thankfully, you can easily gift games through the Oculus Store now. This is a recent addition to the Oculus Store that makes it easy to purchase a game for someone else. If you need help picking a game to give, you can check out our list of every Oculus Quest game, whic...
Have you been happy with the Pixel 4a's performance?
Chatting with the AC forums.If there's an Android phone from 2020 that sticks out as one of the best values, it has to be the Google Pixel 4a. Coming in at just $349, the Pixel 4a delivers an incredible camera, a great OLED display, reliable battery life, and more.Here's a question, though: given how affordable the Pixel 4a is and all the good it brings to the table, how does its performance hold up? The Snapdragon 730 chipset and 6GB of RAM aren't the most technically impressive specs out there, so is it enough power for day-to-day use?We thought so in Pixel 4a review, and taking a look through the AC forums, our community members seem to think the same. Smokeaire01 12-12-2020 05:37 PM “ I've not observed any performance issues on my Pixel 4a. I also don't game at all. I and my wife love these phones and all the features. Reply rpdc ...
Keep your phone clean and happy with these microfiber cloths
No matter if it's a smartphone, laptop, TV, or anything else in between, all of your tech gadgets deserve to be regularly cleaned. Getting rid of gunk and grime not only keeps them looking great, but it also helps to ensure that they perform to the best of their abilities for years to come. If you're ready to take your cleaning game to the next level, here are a few of the best microfiber cloths and sprays we recommend picking up.Keep the cloth cleanMightyMicroCloth Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (6 Pack)Staff pickKnow what happens if you keep a microfiber cloth loose in your pants pocket? It gets dirty and sweaty, and then it doesn't really clean your screen; it just rearranges the smudges. A clean cloth is a happy cloth, and these cloths with included sleeves keep things happy.$16 at AmazonClip it onSPUDZ Classic Microfiber Cloth Screen CleanerHate the way plastic pouches slip out of pockets? This cloth stows in a stretchy machine-washable pouch, which you can clip ...
Netflix for Android gains an audio-only playback mode
The feature is expected to roll out to users globally in the coming weeks.What you need to knowThe Netflix Android app is gaining an audio-only mode.The new feature is rolling out to users as a server-side update.It can be enabled by tapping on the new "Video off" button at the top of the full-screen player.Back in October, an APK teardown performed by the folks at XDA Developers had revealed that Netflix was planning to add an audio-only mode to its mobile app. According to a new report from Android Police, the feature has now started rolling out to Android users as part of a server-side update.As clearly suggested by the new feature's name, it allows you to listen to your favorite Netflix shows, similar to a podcast. It can also be useful when you want to limit your data usage, as the video feed will be turned off when you enable the feature. If you're among the few users to have received the feature, you should see a new Video Off button at the top of the full-s...
How to watch The Expanse anywhere online
The Rocinante and its intrepid crew are returning for ten all-new episodes and we have all the details on how you can watch season 5 of The Expanse online.The space drama is set in the 24th century in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system. While the first three seasons of The Expanse premiered on Syfy, the network ultimately decided to cancel the show and it was then that Amazon picked up the series for additional seasons. Part of the reason it did so is due to the fact that Jeff Bezos is a huge fan of the books of the same name by James S. A. Corey.In the world of The Expanse, the three largest powers fighting for control of the galaxy are the United Nations of Earth and Luna, the Martian Congressional Republic and the Outer Planets Alliance (OPA) which is a loose confederation of people from the asteroid belt and moons of Jupiter and Saturn. The series follows a group of antiheroes including Martian pilot Cas Anvar, Belter engineer Dominique Tipper, Earther mec...
Let these Google Assistant Routines inspire you to automate your life more!
Let Google Assistant make your life a little easier.One of the best things about having a virtual assistant like the Google Assistant, Siri, or Alexa is that they can be programmed to help you out and make your day-to-day life a little easier. We've written on how to set up and manage Google Assistant Routines before, but here are some of the best Google Assistant Routines that our editorial team uses every day. Hopefully, you'll find some inspiration based on what works for us!Start your dayThankfully, Google has created some default Routines that you can adopt and activate as is, or you can customize them to suit your tastes and needs. When you open up the Google Home app, one such preset Routine is called Good Morning. Here is how AC staff writer Ara Wagoner has her morning Routine set up.Open the Google Home app.Tap on Routines.Tap on the Plus icon at the bottom right of the screen.Tap on Add commands.Type in the commands you want to give Google Assistant.Here A...
The best adapters to enhance your music listening experience
If you're wanting to use your wired headphones on your smartphone or tablet, you might need a USB Type-C adapter to do so. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S20 doesn't have a headphone jack, but you can use an adapter in the USB-C port if you still want to use wired headphones. We've researched and gathered together the best headphone adapters on the market for you to choose from. See which one works for your specific needs.Quick ChargeJSAUX USB-C Headphone ChargerStaff PickIf you want something that will allow you to use a max of 30w PD fast charging then this is the adapter for you. There's both a USB-C charging port and a 3.5 mm headphone jack on this adapter so you'll be able to listen to music while quickly charging your phone.$25 at AmazonKeep it simpleNIMASO USB-C Headphone AdapterYou'll be able to listen to music or take phone calls via headphones when using it. It's super compact so you can easily slip it into your pocket or take it with you just about an...
TunnelBear is taking up to 72% off its VPN plans for the holidays
If you didn't score one of the many great VPN deals in 2020, TunnelBear is giving you one more chance to save. For the holidays, it is offering up to 72% off its VPN subscriptions, dropping monthly costs as low as $2.75.The deal applies to the 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year subscription options with the higher savings on the longer-term plans. The 1-year option is billed upfront at $39.99 which works out at $3.33 per month, a 67% savings. The 2-year and 3-year plans are billed at $65.99 and $99.99, respectively, which is 72% off versus paying month-to-month. The deals are only available through Jan 4 when prices will rise.If you've heard a bunch about VPN services recently, it's because they are going mainstream — and for good reason. In our increasingly connected world, they are super useful for keeping your private information private. If you regularly bank or shop online, use public Wi-Fi hotspots, or if you want to access content that's region-locked, a VPN is for you. A VPN wo...
Amazon is shoving even more ads onto your Kindle screen with a new update
Amazon says the update also brings performance improvements and a few bug fixes.What you need to knowYou will soon start seeing a lot more ads on your Kindle homescreen.The new 5.13.4 update for Kindle devices extends the home screen to create more room for ads. It also includes "performance improvements" and a few general enhancements.If you own a Kindle that comes "With Special Offers," you are soon going to start seeing more ads and recommendations on your homescreen. As reported by the folks at GoodEReader, Amazon has started rolling out a new software update that enables it to push more ads than ever before.Amazon is pushing the new software update to all Kindle devices released in the last five years. The update, which arrives as version 5.13.4, brings an extended home screen, which means you can now scroll down further than before to view more recommendations (and ads). Aside from forcing you to view more ads, the update doesn't actually add much else. As with any ...
In 2020, Samsung 'rediscovered' the joy of flat displays
Samsung started the curved trend, but it may have brought back flat displays for goodSmall phones are fun again5G tried and failed to impressSnapdragon 765 proved we don't need pricey phonesHigh refresh rate displays wowed us Plastic phones are the bestCloud gaming went mainstreamStar Wars games saved usCheap phones got good againFor years, the curved displays on phones have been a gift and a curse. Seeing the glass flow over the edges and meet the aluminum frames invokes a sense of beauty and wonder. Samsung was the first on the scene with the Galaxy Note Edge, and that trend just continued to grow in the years leading up to now.It only makes sense for Samsung to be the company that is trying to squash the curved display, with the introduction of the Galaxy S20 FE. But that's only on the "mainstream" level, as Samsung's mid-range and budget phones have largely not seen the curved displays that have been a sense of frustration for some.Accidental touches be gon...
Sony's true wireless earbuds are great for the gym and on sale for $128
The Sony WF-SP800N sporty true wireless earbuds have dropped to $128 as part of one of Amazon's daily deals. These earbuds went down to around $148 for the Black Friday shopping season, but before that they were regularly selling as high as $200. And before today, the drop to $148 was the lowest they had gone. So we're getting a new low for earbuds that have only been out since May, but this price is very temporary and won't survive the night. You can get the $128 deal on all three available colors: black, blue, and orange.Sony's earbuds are designed to be used in a variety of situations. They have an IP55 rating, which means they're resistant to both water and dirt. Don't be afraid to take these outside with you. Use them at the gym, by the pool, or even while going to and from work. If you get caught in the rain, it won't be a big deal.They will also last a long time. The battery life per earbud is nine hours. Thanks to the charging case, you'll get a total of 18 hours before y...
Here's one more reason to use Google Messages — end-to-end encryption
It's time to practice safe texting.If you use Google's stock Messages app to send your text and SMS messages, we have good news — your chats can now be completely secured from prying eyes! We'll show you how to enable end-to-end encryption in the Google Messages app so that you don't have to worry about your private messages potentially falling into the wrong hands.How to enable and use end-to-end encryption in the Google Messages appEnd-to-end encryption is currently in Beta for Google Messages users and only works in individual chats at the moment. Until this feature is more widely available, you'll want to become a Google Messages Beta tester.Search Google Messages in the Play Store app.Tap on Beta signup.It may take some time for your Beta signup to go through, so keep refreshing your Google Messages app.Open the Google Messages app.Tap on the three-dot menu in the top right corner.Tap on SettingsTap on Chat features.Tap to toggle on Enable chat features....
One-day Ring Video Doorbell deal lets you smarten up your door for just $70
With all the packages we receive these days, it makes total sense to equip your front door with a smart doorbell. They used to be an expensive luxury but video doorbells are actually pretty cheap these days, especially with sales like this one at Woot offering a Ring Video Doorbell 2 for just $69.99.Woot is offering the smart home device in used condition at half the usual cost of a refurb model and $120 off the device's full cost for a brand new model. Each unit has been tested to ensure they are in full working order, though the used devices may exhibit some cosmetic blemishes. There's also a 90-day Woot warranty included with your purchase in case of any issues.With the Ring Video Doorbell 2, you can see, hear, and speak to visitors at your door by using an app on your phone, tablet, or computer. It's equipped with a camera that records in 1080p HD with infrared night vision so you can see what's going on outside your home no matter what time of day it is, and it's all accessi...
Anker kicks off a fresh set of charging accessory deals at Amazon
You probably made your big tech purchases during Black Friday and Cyber Monday when the biggest savings were available but did you stock up on essential accessories? If that slipped your mind while you were perusing sales on flagship products then Anker is giving you a chance to fix that.It is hosting a one-day sale at Amazon featuring a bunch of popular Anker charging accessories discounted by up to 40% there while supplies last. The sale offers a varied mix of products including wall chargers, power banks, car chargers, cables, wireless chargers, and more.If you've got a Qi-enabled phone (which is likely if you bought your phone in the last five years), you ought to upgrade to a wireless charger. Thankfully Anker's sale makes it super affordable to do with the PowerWave Stand down to just $19.79 today. The 10W charging stand can power up phones from Apple, Samsung, LG, Google, and more with fast wireless charging available for compatible devices. Today's price is a 40% discount...
How to watch Liverpool vs Tottenham: Live stream Premier League football
The Premier League action continues today as the top two sides in the division face off against each other at Anfield. Don't miss a moment with our Liverpool vs Tottenham live stream guide.The two teams come into today's game with an equal record in the league having both won seven, drawn four, and lost one. Tottenham currently hold the top spot on goal difference alone.In their last outings, both sides only managed a 1-1 draw with Liverpool failing to beat newly-promoted Fulham and Tottenham struggling away at London rivals Crystal Palace.Outside of the Premier League, Liverpool have also successfully progressed from their Champions League group after finishing top of Group D. That has earned them a round of 16 clash with RB Leipzig.Similarly, Spurs won their Europa League group to make it through to the knockout rounds. Jose Mourinho's men will face Austrian side Wolfsberg in the round of 32 in February.Today's game could prove crucial in this year's Premier League title ...
Why I'm buying my mom a Chromecast with Google TV for Christmas
A small remote, an easy-to-use interface, and wonderfully low pricing made the Chromecast with Google TV the easiest part of my holiday shopping.Christmas shopping in the Wagoner household is a lot of guesswork and questioning. After all, we're all adults who are self-sufficient: if we need something, we just buy it ourselves. Finding something someone wants for Christmas is a rare feat, and instead, I'm focusing this year on getting smaller gifts that are useful — or will be used up, like the shower bombs my little sister likes.My parents are notoriously difficult to shop for, as their house is full of stuff and they have little need for any more. However, my parents have been transitioning from watching old-fashioned over-the-air television to watching more streaming services over the last several years. This year, it's time to upgrade their streaming TV experience with a Chromecast with Google TV.I've been a Chromecast user since day one: I literally drove across town an...
Alexa now lets you easily share your shopping lists with friends and family
The feature is currently available only in the U.S.What you need to knowAmazon's Alexa voice assistant has gained a useful new feature.Amazon Echo owners can share their shopping needs with contacts using Alexa.Once you share a shopping list, the voice assistant will send it as a message to the receiver's Alexa account.Amazon has quietly rolled out a new feature to its Alexa voice assistant, allowing users to easily share their shopping needs with their contacts. The new feature will only be available in the U.S., at least initially.To share your shopping list with someone in your contacts, all you have to do is say, "Alexa, send my shopping list to ." Alexa will then identify the contact and send the list as a message directly to the receiver's Alexa account. In addition to the Alexa app on your phone, you can share your shopping list with friends and family through compatible Amazon Echo devices as well.Once a shopping list is shared, the recipient will get a notifica...
Our growing list of known bugs and launch issues for the PS5
Troubleshooting your new console? You're not alone.The PS5 is finally here, marking the start of the next-generation of consoles, along with the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. The PS5 brings a host of new features and improvements to its system performance, thanks to its new custom CPU and GPU, and its new ultra-high speed SSD that makes load times shorter than ever before. With games like Demon's Souls and Spider-Man: Miles Morales ready at launch, the PlayStation 5 is already a force to be reckoned with.But with the arrival of every new console generation comes a new generation of issues and bugs. Software and hardware bugs are not uncommon, but will definitely hinder the enjoyment of your new console. We've rounded up all of the known bugs and issues you may encounter, as well as any know workarounds that might help.PS5 GuidesHow to transfer games and save dataHow to attach the PS5 baseHow to set up parental controlsHow to connect to Wi-FiHow to increase download ...
8 Affordable Gifts For the Chromebook Lover In Your Life
Chromebook lovers are a different breed from your normal laptop lover. We don't need super high-powered battery packs like power-hungry Macs and gaming laptops, and since many Chromebooks are fanless, they don't need risers and cooling pads, either. So if that special someone on your list already has all the essential Chromebook accessories, here are a few outside-the-box gift suggestions for elevating their Chromebook experience.Stylish and super-usefulSenseAGE 3-in-1 Reusable Microfiber Screen Cleaning ClothStaff pickKeep your screen clean and your mouse effective with this multi-function microfiber cloth. The bottom is anti-slip so the mat won't slide around as you use it as a mousepad or when covering your keyboard.$10 at AmazonShow your colors!Waterproof Vinyl Sticker PackChromebook lids may be shiny and sleek, but they're kind of lacking in style. That's where stickers come in handy: make the Chromebook your own with some fitting quotes or colorful designs....
Huawei just launched the first Developer Beta for its smartphone OS
HarmonyOS 2.0 is Huawei's first homegrown OS designed to work with smartphones.What you need to knowThe HarmonyOS 2.0 Developer Beta is the first time developers outside the company will have access to Huawei's replacement for Android.The beta is currently only supported on a handful of Huawei-made smartphones.The company plans on launching HarmonyOS-powered smartphones sometime next year.Huawei's long journey toward independence from Google may finally be coming to an end, reports XDA Developers, as the company today officially launched its Developer Beta for HarmonyOS 2.0, the variant of its homegrown OS that's designed for smartphones. In light of its legal troubles, and its inability to access crucial Google services, the company hopes to eventually move its smartphone lineup to HarmonyOS and its own HMS services ecosystem.Today marks a crucial milestone in those plans, as the Developer Beta will be the first time that developers outside of the company's own labs can ...
Spotify down: Music streaming site goes down in Europe
Unable to stream music on Spotify in Europe? You're not the only one.What you need to knowSpotify is currently inaccessible in most parts of Europe.Users are unable to stream music or access playlists, or are being logged out of their accounts. We're yet to get an official statement from Spotify. Spotify is facing an outage that is predominantly affecting users in Europe. According to DownDetector, the service is inaccessible in the region right now. Users have been logged out of their accounts and are unable to log back in, and those that still have an active session are unable to stream music.The Spotify Status Twitter account has confirmed the outage, and is investigating the issue right now:We're aware of some issues right now and are checking them out! We'll keep you posted.— Spotify Status (@SpotifyStatus) December 16, 2020For what it's worth, I'm able to use the service just fine here in India, so for now it looks like the issue is limited to Europe. Runnin...
The Galaxy Note series isn't going anywhere, claims unnamed Samsung exec
Samsung's flagship phablet is here to stay, it seems.What you need to knowA new report from South Korea dispels rumors about the impending demise of Samsung's Note series.It cites an unnamed Samsung official.Previous reports had suggested that Samsung plans on killing the Note series to focus on its lineup of foldable phones.Rumors of Samsung's Galaxy Note series' demise may have been exaggerated, as a new report out of South Korea citing an unnamed senior Samsung official claims that while Samsung will be porting over some of the best features of the Note series to its other flagship offerings, the company still plans to continue selling its beloved phablet to consumers.The report from Yonhap News Agency quotes an unnamed Samsung official as saying, "We are preparing to release the Galaxy Note series next year."Rumors about Samsung ditching the Note series to focus on its foldable phones began making the rounds after an earlier report from Korea suggested that Samsung ...
OnePlus products get discounted in India as part of 7th Anniversary Sale
The OnePlus 8T 5G will be on sale in India at just ₹40,999 on December 17.What you need to knowOnePlus is holding its 7th Anniversary Sale in India from December 17.The brand is offering attractive discounts on its entire product line as part of the sale, along with other benefits.It is also rolling out Red Cable Life at an introductory price of ₹999.OnePlus will be celebrating the seventh anniversary of its founding on December 17. To mark the occasion, the brand has announced the OnePlus 7th Anniversary sale for customers in India.As part of its 7th Anniversary sale, customers will be able to avail the following offers on OnePlus.in and the OnePlus Store app:Customers can avail up to INR 2000 instant discount with HDFC Bank card transactions and Easy EMI options, and up to 10% cashback on select American Express® Card transactions on purchasing OnePlus smartphones on OnePlus.in, OnePlus Store app and Amazon.inCustomers buying OnePlus smartphones on the OnePlus ...
Lifetime Plex Pass is down to $78 right now — but you need to act fast
Plex is a local streaming service that lets you stream content from your media library to all devices in your home. While the service itself is free to use, there's a Plex Pass tier that brings a host of exciting features, including the ability to download shows to your phone or tablet for offline viewing, recording live TV broadcasts, shared libraries, and so much more.Plex Pass is usually $4.99 a month, $39.99 annually, and the lifetime pass costs $120. But right now, there's a 20% off on the lifetime subscription using promo code SEEYA2020 that brings it down to $96. But you can use an easy workaround where you change the country in the credit card payment window to Brazil to bring the cost down to BRL399, which is just $78. The deal itself is valid only until 11:59am PT on December 18, so sign up now at Plex to unlock the $42 savings on the lifetime Plex Pass subscription.Don't miss outPlex Pass | $42 off at Plex$70 at PlexUse the promo code **SEEYA2020 ** and change th...
Plex Pass: What is it, and should you subscribe?
Plex is the best local media streaming solution around, and Plex Pass turbocharges the service.If you have a lot of locally-stored media and want to stream it to various connected devices in your home, you'll need a local streaming client like Plex. All you need to do is install Plex Media Server on the device where your media collection is housed. Ideally, that should be a home server like a NAS — I've rounded up the best NAS for Plex, so if you don't already have a storage enclosure, you can look through the list to get started.Plex itself is free to use and straightforward to set up, but there's a paid tier called Plex Pass that unlocks a host of added features. Plex Pass costs $4.99 a month, $39.99 yearly, or you can pick up a lifetime subscription by shelling out $120. So let's take a look at what Plex Pass has to offer, and whether it makes sense for you to switch to the paid tier.Plex Pass is worth it just for mobile syncThis single feature alone is enough to justify...
Here's why I'm excited for the Exynos-powered Galaxy S21
Samsung is finally fixing the biggest issue with its Exynos chipsets in 2021.Samsung's flagships are often the best Android phones, but the South Korean manufacturer is unique in the way it releases phones. Samsung's dual-sourcing strategy means that a select few markets like North America and Korea feature flagships powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon chipsets, with most other countries getting Exynos chipsets instead.Samsung used this strategy to great effect over the last six years, and it doesn't look like that's set to change in 2021. The U.S. version of the Galaxy S21 series will be powered by Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 888 chipset, with the global versions set to feature the upcoming Exynos 2100.The reason Samsung doesn't use Exynos chipsets globally is down to carrier compatibility. Qualcomm makes the best cellular modems in the industry, and for the 4G era, Samsung didn't really have a recourse but to use Qualcomm's designs in the U.S. to ensure compatibility with the l...
Google One cuts prices in half for its most expensive cloud storage plans
The lower-tier Google One plans remain unchanged.What you need to knowGoogle is offering half-off on its most expensive storage plans.The price changes will also be in effect for current subscribers on those plans.This comes after Google's controversial announcement regarding storage policy changes.A year after launching its Google One subscription service, Google stopped offering unlimited original-quality photo backups to Pixel owners. Then the company announced in November that as of June of 2021, new photos and videos uploaded to Google Photos will count towards the free 15GB of cloud storage that Google offers. The policy changes were apparently due to the growing demand for cloud storage, which is understandable. But many couldn't help but consider the move being aimed at driving users to purchase more storage through Google One.Now Google is hoping to get back into the good graces of its highest-paying customers by slashing the prices of its most expensive Google O...
Amazon Luna makes its way to Android smartphones — but there's a catch
Amazon Luna is shaping up to be a serious contender.What you need to knowAmazon Luna has now been released for Android.The game streaming service was launched in September with support for several different devices including iPhone, Mac, PC, and Fire TV.It is still in early access, so those interested will have to request access to the service.When Amazon Luna's cloud gaming service launched in September, it looked like a promising contender to Google Stadia. At launch it offered access to over 100 games, compared to Google Stadia's meager 25, and while the latter's library has grown since launch, only a handful of titles are actually free with the Pro subscription, and the list keeps changing. Amazon Luna's library of games is free for Luna+ subscribers, and now it's coming to an Android device near you.Similar to how Amazon Luna gets around the Apple Store rules by making Luna accessible via Safari, the same is also true with Android, albeit via Google Chrome. The servi...
New Amazfit GTS 2 Mini smartwatch shrinks the display, battery and price
Just a few months after the full-sized GTS 2 launched, Amazfit made it much cheaper with (mostly) the same features.What you need to knowThe Amazfit GTS 2 Mini is available now for $99.99.It has a 1.55" AMOLED screen, SpO2 and heart rate measurement, built-in GPS and Alexa voice commands, 5 ATM water resistance, and sleep tracking.Compared to the GTS 2, it has a smaller display and shorter battery life, but also some new software additions like a Pomodoro calendar and phone camera controls.In my Amazfit GTS 2 review, I had plenty of positives to say about the watch, but personally preferred the GTR 2 for its larger AMOLED display during my runs. That hasn't changed, but many people favor a smaller and lighter watch, either because it weighs less or for the daintier look. For that crowd, Amazfit's newest watch may be an even better (Amaz)fit.The GTS 2 Mini lives up to its name. Ignoring its smaller size, it has the same sensors for heart rate and blood oxygen saturation mo...
Google's Blob Opera is an amusing way to create festive holiday tunes
Google's Blob Opera is another of Google's creative AI experiments.What you need to knowGoogle has launched another creative AI experiment, Blob Opera.Blob Opera uses ML to create festive opera-inspired sounds for you.Google recorded hours of sound from four opera singers to create this tool.Want to make your own Christmas song? You can do so with yet another of Google's creative AI offerings. Known as Blob Opera, it's a machine learning-powered tool that can transform your ideas into opera inspired sounds.Here's how it looks in action.Google's Arts and Culture team explainedhttps://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/arts-culture/create-festive-song-blob-opera/: This experiment pays tribute to and explores the original musical instrument: the voice. We developed a machine learning model trained on the voices of four opera singers in order to create an engaging experiment for everyone, regardless of musical skills. [...] The resulting experiment allows you to play ...
Best OnePlus Phone Deals for December 2020: OnePlus 8 Pro from $799 & more
Deals on Apple iPhone devices and Samsung Galaxy phones are everywhere, but it's a bit more difficult to find a great deal on a OnePlus device. There are plenty of current OnePlus models to choose from, and whether you want a OnePlus 8, or a OnePlus 7 Pro, or one of the more affordable OnePlus 7T devices is the first big question you'll need to answer for yourself.Best OnePlus Deals Available NowOnePlus 8 devices: get one for freeOnePlus 7 devices: starting at $350Which to buy?OnePlus 8 Pro | $799 at AmazonAmazon is offering $200 off the cost of the OnePlus 8 Pro today, though only the Ultramarine Blue model is still available at this low price. These phones have Amazon Alexa built-in and feature 12GB RAM as well as 256GB storage.$799 at AmazonAll of the deals below vary in nature, so while some allow you to buy the unlocked phone with a single purchase today, others require a monthly payment plan; these plans are attached to carriers which usually require you...
Protect little ears with the best volume-limiting headphones for kids
When looking for the best kid's headphones, there are a special set of criteria. First, they need to be smaller to fit a child's head. They also need to include simplified controls, be comfortable, and crucially, include built-in volume-limiting technology to ensure that a child can't crank the volume up beyond levels that are considered to be safe for little ears. Luckily, these headphones are more affordable than ever. Some limit audio to as low as 75 decibels, which is safe for even toddlers. Other alternatives, like the Noot Products K11 are foldable for easy travel, while others still boast further clever tricks to make them kid-friendly, like cute designs and durable build quality. And these days, you can even find wireless Bluetooth headphones for kids.Best Overall: Noot Products K11 Foldable On-Ear HeadsetThese headphones will fit all children ages 3 and up. Their foldable design makes them ideal for chucking in school bags for storing in hand luggage and even for compa...
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