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Updated 2026-03-13 05:33
Google makes Search even more useful with new ‘about this result’ feature
The feature is rolling out today as a beta for users in the U.S.What you need to knowThe latest Google Search feature will help you learn more about the websites that appear in your search results.You will have to tap on the menu icon next to search results to find out more about the website and where the information is coming from.The feature is rolling out today on desktop, mobile web, and the Google app on Android for users in the U.S.Google has announced a new feature that will let you learn more about your search results. The search giant says the feature is aimed at helping users easily find more information about sites in search results that they may not be familiar with. Instead of performing another search to find out about those sites, you can now tap on the menu icon next to search results to find out more about the website.Explaining how the feature will help users, JK Kearns, Product Manager, Search, wrote in a blog post: These descriptions will provide t...
Charging is better than ever on the Pixel 5 with these wireless chargers
Google's history of wireless charging on its Pixels is somewhat rocky, but the Google Pixel 5 should work with a wider variety of wireless chargers. Yes, the Pixel 5 might actually end the insanity of wonky compatibility and bizarre charging speeds we saw with the Pixel 3 and Pixel 4, thanks to the 15W Extended Power Profile used in the Pixel 5. There are many, many great chargers out there that support this wireless spec, but your Pixel deserves only the best. These are the best Pixel 5 wireless chargers, including pads and stands.For you and your budsiOttie iON Wireless DuoStaff pickThis two-pad charger has a 15W EPP wireless charging stand for topping off your Pixel 5 at top speed, and you also get a 5W flat charging pad for your Pixel Buds, smartwatch, or another phone. As a note, only the Dark Grey model is 15W!$49 at AmazonGrippy, low profileBelkin Boost Charge 15W Wireless Charging PadBelkin has long been a wireless charging partner for Google's Pixel line....
Android Auto gets a huge push thanks to Google's contract with Ford
Ford gets access to Android Auto and Google's cloud services.What you need to knowGoogle just signed a six-year deal with Ford for an undisclosed amount.The deal gives Ford access to Google's Android Auto system as well as its cloud and AI services.The first models with the integration are expected to arrive in 2023.Google and Ford have formed a multi-year partnership that will see the two companies working together to drive the auto industry forward. As part of this six-year deal, the companies are collaborating on a new initiative called Team Upshift, which will bring their teams together to help modernize Ford's business and product offerings, while expanding the reach of Google's automotive and cloud services.The deal will see Android Auto integrated into Ford and Lincoln vehicles, with the first models arriving in 2023. According to Ford, this will help the company to deliver unique experiences driven by Google's cloud and AI services that can not only personalize ve...
MediaTek M80 5G modem challenges Qualcomm with mmWave and faster speeds
MediaTek's second-gen 5G modem pushes download speeds to new heights.What you need to knowMediaTek is launching its latest 5G modem for smartphones, which is its first modem to support mmWave connectivity.The new M80 5G modem supports download and upload speeds of up to 7.67Gbps and 3.76Gbps, respectively.Devices equipped with the new 5G modem are expected to launch later this year.Qualcomm continues to lead the global 5G push, but MediaTek remains committed to offering cheaper, yet powerful alternatives for its mobile partners. Following the recent announcement of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 and Snapdragon 870 chipsets, MediaTek followed up with the its own Dimensity 1100 and 1200. Now the company is flexing its 5G chops with the release of its latest M80 5G modem.As a follow-up to the company's first mobile 5G modem, the M70, this newer chip supports impressively fast download and upload speeds of 7.67Gbps and 3.76Gbps, respectively. That's just slightly faster than wha...
Hitman and Madden on Stadia highlight an otherwise slow start to 2021
After ending 2020 on such a strong note, Stadia is off to a relatively slow start in 2021.I don't think Google could have ended 2020 in a stronger position than it did with Stadia. After several months of uncertainty and launch woes following its debut in November 2019, Stadia has now come into its own as of late. After the surprising success of Cyberpunk 2077, which now tops our list of the best Stadia games, Google's cloud gaming service is in a better position than ever going forward, even if the start to 2021 has been a bit slower.However, now that Stadia has shut down its first-party studio to focus on platform development and third-party support, the future is looking even more open.Stadia Status is our monthly recap of what's new and what's next for the Stadia platform. Let's dive in!Stadia Status: January 2021 RecapThe first few weeks of the month began with almost complete silence. Other than shuffling around a few Stadia Pro games like Hotline Miami and F1 2020,...
God of War is getting a free PS5 update bringing it to 4K 60 FPS
Taking full advantage of the new system.What you need to knowGod of War first released in 2018 for the PS4.Sony Santa Monica is providing a free update for PS5 players tomorrow.This update allows the game to run with 4K checkerboard visuals at 60 FPS.Sony Santa Monica's 2018 title God of War reached critical acclaim and commercial success on the PS4. Now the studio is providing a patch so it's an even better experience on the PS5. This update is completely free and is arriving for PS5 owners on February 2. With this update, God of War runs at 4K 60 FPS on PS5, using checkerboard rendering.If for some reason you want to play it with the older settings, you'll still have that ability by going to the options and selecting Original Performance Experience. God of War is part of the PlayStation Plus Collection of games, so if you haven't played it yet, this is the perfect time to do so.A new God of War is one of the games currently slated to arrive on the PS5 later in 2021. I...
Is Google shutting down Stadia?
Today Google announced that it's closing all internal Stadia studios and Jade Raymond is leaving the company. Does this mean Stadia is dead?Best answer: No. At the time of this writing Google is not shutting down the Stadia platform. It is, however, closing its internal development and publishing studios that were working on exclusive first-party Stadia games to instead focus efforts on third-party deals and supporting the platform as a whole.Play on your TV: Stadia Premiere Edition ($100 at Best Buy)So, Google isn't shutting down Stadia?No, on Feb. 1, 2021 Google announced that it's closing its internal Stadia development studios that were working on exclusive Stadia projects, not that it was shutting down Stadia as a whole. This means the platform will continue to exist as it does today, but in the future, Google is focusing on third-party projects and supporting the Stadia platform rather than investing resources into developing exclusive first-party games.Will new gam...
The LG Velvet finally starts receiving stable Android 11 update
The LG Velvet also gets a bump to UX 10 with the Android 11 update.What you need to knowLG has begun to push the stable Android 11 update to the Velvet smartphone in Korea.There is no available changelog for the Velvet, but the UX has been bumped up to version 10.The LG Velvet is the only phone scheduled to receive Android 11 this quarter.Owners of the LG Velvet can rejoice as the stable build for Android 11 has finally begun to roll out to devices in Korea, which means a U.S. rollout shouldn't be too far behind. The update began appearing over the weekend, and there's no apparent changelog included with the update, but it's expected to carry all of the goodies that come with Android 11 such as Chat Bubbles, improved security, and more.The update is based on LG UX 10, up from UX 9 on previous devices like the LG Wing. That means there's likely to be some visual changes to the UI, although those haven't been identified. The size of the update comes it at around 2.2GB.In ...
Sling TV free trial: Here's how to try it before signing up
Sling TV has a free trial available right now that gives you three full days of access to the plan and add-ons of your choice! Choose between the Sling Blue, Sling Orange, or Sling Orange + Blue plans and then add-on additional packages for more channels to watch for free during your three-day trial period.Sign up at Sling TV nowSling TV is easily one of the best live TV streaming services out there right now. Not only is it affordable with plans starting at just $35 per month, but it includes many of the most popular cable channels and local broadcast channels as well. Whether you're a sports fan who can't live without ESPN or someone who's obsessed with HGTV and discovering new ways to reinvent spaces and furniture in your home, Sling TV has you covered.With the free trial at Sling, you'll not only score three days of access to the base plan of your choice for free but also any add-ons you select. There are a few add-ons which are not eligible for the free trial period, inclu...
These are the best smart LED light bulbs that work with Google Home
Not only are LED smart bulbs more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, but you'll feel like Tony Stark walking through your home, controlling the lighting with just your voice. Google Home is one of the tentpole home assistant platforms and all of the bulbs listed here pair perfectly with all of the best Google Home compatible devices available. The question you need to ask yourself as a consumer is how many bulbs you need for your home and how much are you willing to spend?Full-feature smart lightsTo experience the best that smart LED lights can offer, you'll want to start with ones that are entirely customizable with the full spectrum of colors available. Because these bulbs are way more expensive than any light bulb you've probably bought in your life you're going to want to choose a brand that can satisfy all your smart lighting needs or piece together your house plan with bulbs that don't need a hub.Light your home with colorPhilips Hue Color Smart Bulb ...
Google is shuttering Stadia internal development studios
No longer building any teams from the ground up.What you need to knowStadia Games and Entertainment is Google's first-party wing of development teams for Stadia.Stadia Games and Entertainment is being shut down, with head Jade Raymond leaving the company.The focus is now on Google partnering with third-party developers for Stadia content.Stadia Games and Entertainment is Google's first-party development studios for Stadia. Led by Ubisoft veteran Jade Raymond, the organization consisted of two internally built studios, one of which is led by Shannon Studstill, formerly head of Sony Santa Monica studio. Google also acquired Typhoon Games, creators of Journey to the Savage Planet, for further first-party growth. Now it's all shutting down.Google announced today that Stadia Games and Entertainment is being shuttered, with head Jade Raymond exiting the company. According to a report from Kotaku, around 150 developers will be losing their jobs as a result of this closure.Goog...
Google reiterates its commitment towards supporting Black-owned businesses
Google also shared some progress reports on pledges it had made last year.What you need to knowGoogle has doubled down on its pledge to support Black-owned businesses in Black History Month.The company has promised to make it easier to find Black-owned businesses when using Google Shopping in the coming months.Google will also continue issuing grants and loans to select small businesses.As Black History Month rolls around again, companies with a social justice focus such as Microsoft, Facebook, and Google are sharing details about initiatives they're adopting to support the Black community during this month.Google for its part ramped up investments in causes furthering support of Black-business in 2020 at the height of the Black Lives Matter demonstrations. In 2021, it's pushing those investments further.Writing on the Google blog, Google's Attica Jaques, Director of Brand Marketing, Consumer Apps, said: Historically, Black-owned businesses have served as gathering ...
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G now costs the same as the Galaxy S21 Ultra
Samsung just dropped the pricing of one of its most futuristic phones.What you need to knowSamsung today dropped the pricing of the Galaxy Flip 5G down to $1200 from $1450.That's the same price as the S21 Ultra, the company's current top-end phone.Reducing the barrier to entry for consumers means Samsung can get more users onboard its foldable future.The Galaxy Flip 5G, despite being a phone that represents the future of Samsung phones, was also one that was priced out of reach for most. Starting at $1450, it was more of an aspirational device than something most people would realistically consider.Samsung has now dropped the pricing to $1200 (via 9to5Google), cutting it by $250. It's still expensive, but it is priced more like something the company expects users to purchase in appreciable numbers. It also helps that the Galaxy Flip has already been superseded by the Galaxy Z Flip 2, so Samsung doesn't mind taking a little hit on the pricing. For those who simply want the...
Grab one of these sweet cases to protect your Galaxy Tab S6
With its sizeable 10.5-inch AMOLED display, included S Pen, and touch sensitivity, the Galaxy Tab S6 is an impressive tablet. As with any of the best Android tablets, it definitely isn't cheap, though. So, you're going to want to pick up a case to keep it from getting scratched or damaged. There are plenty of different styles and looks to choose from, so we rounded up the very best of the best to make the decision a little easier.Get a gripDadanism Case FitStaff pickThis PU leather covering features a pocket for the S Pen to prevent it from slipping off and getting lost. Additionally, you'll find a helpful strap on the backside, making it easier to hold the Tab S6 with one hand while you use it. Use the built-in stand to prop it up when watching shows or using your favorite apps.$14 at AmazonClickity clackFintie Keyboard CaseIf you think you'll frequently be typing on your Tab S6, you should pick up this awesome keyboard case. The case itself is made of PU leather...
February 2021 security patch details now available
Fixing the latest bugs and exploits in Android every month.Google has detailed the latest Android Security Bulletin and released the fixes for Pixel devices.These are exploits and other security concerns that affect Android as a whole. Issues with the operating system, kernel patches, and driver updates may not affect any particular device, but these need to be fixed in the Android base by the folks maintaining the operating system code. That means Google, and they've detailed the things they have improved for this month.Updated factory images for Pixel devices that are supported are available, and over-the-air updates are rolling out to users. If you don't want to wait, you can download and flash the factory image or OTA update file manually, and here are some handy instructions to get you started.How to manually update your Pixel The company that made your phone uses these patches to send an update out to you.These changes have been released to the people making Andr...
Chrome gets a new iCloud Password extension to sync logins between devices
If you live a multi-OS lifestyle, this new iCloud Chrome extension will make your life easier.What you need to knowApple has just released an iCloud extension for the Chrome web browser.iCloud Passwords will sync passwords made with iCloud Keychain for use in Chrome.The extension will also allow new passwords created in Chrome to sync back to iCloud.When Apple and Google play nice, it benefits everyone. The latest example of this is the new extension that Apple just released for the Chrome web browser. With iCloud Password, Apple makes it easy for users who switch between desktop operating systems to keep their passwords synced, regardless of whether they're using a Mac, Chromebook, or PC.The extension will suggest passwords within the Chrome web browser that are synced from the iCloud Keychain. This way, you won't have to go digging in your Mac or iPhone in order to log onto a website on your PC or Chromebook; it'll automatically be suggested as an option when you're p...
Compose emails up to 4 times faster with Lightkey Pro text prediction: now 52% off
Source: StackCommerceSmart text prediction saves a lot of time on mobile devices. So, why not take advantage of the same technology on a desktop? With Lightkey Pro, you can supercharge your writing in 85 languages — and lifetime access is now 52% off at $79.99.If you were to analyze your own writing, you would probably find certain patterns repeating. Lightkey Pro picks up on these habits and gives you a shortcut.It's basically the same idea as the typing suggestions that appear on your phone. Instead of tapping the word you want, you simply press Tab.Lightkey Pro gives you up to 12 predictions to work with, including punctuation. The app also picks up on spelling mistakes, and you can tailor the predictions to specific topics.On average, users are able to write emails four times quicker using this method.Lightkey Pro works with Office and other apps, and your data is never submitted to the cloud. The Windows Club called it "one of the most futuristic and innovative too...
How to turn off tab groups and grid view on Chrome for Android
Google rolled out a new update to Chrome for Android that introduced a new interface for tab management. Instead of the vertical tab layout, tabs are now sorted into a grid view whenever you open a link. If you're not a fan of tab groups, you can easily switch back to the old vertical layout. Here's how to turn off grid view on Chrome for Android.How to turn off tab groups and grid view on Chrome for AndroidOpen Chrome for Android. Type chrome://flags/#enable-tab-grid-layout in the address bar and hit Enter. You should see a Tab Grid Layout setting highlighted in yellow. Select the drop-down menu.In the drop-down menu, select Disabled. Hit the Relaunch button at the bottom of the page to restart Chrome. You should once again see vertical tab management in Chrome.I had to relaunch Chrome twice for the changes to take effect, so if you don't see the old layout with a restart, try reloading Chrome again. While the new interface may be confusing at first, I've been using...
Best OnePlus Deals for February 2021: $200 off OnePlus 8 Pro and 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 Nord devices is the first big question you'll need to answer for yourself.Best OnePlus Deals Available NowOnePlus Nord devices: get one for freeOnePlus 8 devices: up to $750 offOnePlus 7 devices: starting at $350Which to buy?OnePlus 8 Pro | $799.99 at AmazonAmazon is offering $200 off the cost of the OnePlus 8 Pro today, though only the Onyx Black model is still available at this low price. These phones have Amazon Alexa built-in and feature 12GB RAM as well as 256GB storage.$799.99 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 attache...
Don't let your phone die out there — these are the best battery packs!
Nothing can turn your great Android phone from state-of-the-art to overpriced paperweight faster than a dead battery. The best portable chargers and power banks can help recharge your tech when life plays keep-away with your power outlets. Portable chargers used to be big, bulky, and slow, but USB-C power banks and Power Delivery charging standards have made things much faster — fast enough to charge laptops, even — and have allowed power banks to get slimmer and better than ever. There are plenty of options in every shape or size, but our favorite is the affordably awesome RAVPower PD Pioneer Series 20,000mAh.Best Overall: RAVPower PD Pioneer Series 20,000mAhWhen choosing a portable charger, it's all about balancing power with portability. After all, a power bank doesn't do you any good if it's so bulky that you forget it at home. Likewise, a power bank that's small but low-capacity can run dry before your day is over, especially when you need to keep multiple devices aliv...
Samsung has made it easy to switch to the Google Discover feed on the S21
One of our favorite Android features is the personalized news and information made readily available with just a swipe from the Google Discover feed. Most phones that we're aware of on Android 11 already either allow you to switch to the Google Discover feed or have that set as the default. However, some manufacturers (cough cough, Samsung) have previously made such a switch difficult or impossible, instead only offering the option to use their proprietary news and media feeds. Thankfully, with One UI 3.1 and higher, Galaxy phone owners can quickly and easily decide which solution is right for them. We'll show you how to switch from Samsung Free to the Google Discover feed on your Galaxy S21 phone.How to switch from Samsung Free to the Google Discover feed on your Galaxy S21 phonePress down firmly on your device's home screen to bring up the customization options.Swipe right to get to the - 1 screen where the feeds live.Make sure the switch at the top is toggled On to blue.Ta...
The best NAS deals in 2021
Network-attached storage is a concept that at one point seemed pretty daunting to the layman. These days it's easier than ever to set up. All you really need is an NAS device, a couple of hard drives to fill the bays, and a strong network connection. With that small investment, you an ensure all of your media and data is stored in a secure way that's accessible to your entire home or small business.Some of the more popular brands for NAS devices include Synology, QNAP, and Buffalo. Even Western Digital has gotten in on the NAS side of things. If you want to set up your own home media server or something like a Plex server, then look for one of these popular brands for a system that's easy to use and designed for convenience.Best NAS DealsPromise Apollo Cloud 2 Duo 8TB personal cloud storage deviceThis NAS can support up to 40 private members and create public shared links. It imports your camera rolls and such with no monthly fees, and it has a USB 3.0 port for automatic ...
Latest ASUS ROG Phone 5 leak leaves little to the imagination
The upcoming ROG Phone isn't going to be a massive upgrade over last year's ROG Phone 3.What you need to knowASUS' upcoming ROG Phone 5 has passed through China's TENAA certification process.The TENAA listing reveals the design of the device, along with a few key specs.The gaming phone will come with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 888 chipset, a 144Hz screen, and a 6000mAh battery.We got our first look at ASUS' next ROG Phone last month, courtesy of a leaked image posted on Weibo. The upcoming gaming phone has now been spotted on China's MIIT and TENAA certification platforms (via GSMArena).The phone's TENAA listing includes two images, which reveal a design that appears largely similar to last year's ROG Phone 3. Despite official teasers suggesting otherwise, the phone won't have a bezel-less design. The top and bottom bezels are still quite thick, although they do appear to slightly slimmer. On the back of the phone, we can see a triple-camera setup and a secondary dot-matrix di...
ASUS's competitor to the Lenovo Chromebook Duet looks finally breaks cover
With a nice bright screen and two kickstands, the ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3000 could be quite a flexible product.What you need to knowThe unreleased new ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3000 has a live listing on German retailer Saturn.The tablet's full specs are listed, including a MediaTek 8183 processor and 128GB of storage.The delivery dates listed aren't until July, so we're still months from being able to get the physical device.One oddity in the listing: there are product renders with two different magnetic kickstands: one landscape and one vertical.As I've mentioned several times in the last year, the state of Chrome OS tablets right now is pretty sparse. You have the compact, affordable Lenovo Chromebook Duet, which has won not only a spot on Best Chromebooks but mine and my coworkers' hearts as well, or you have a smattering of three-year-old Chrome OS tablets that are either discontinued, underpowered, or both.We'd heard rumors of another Chrome OS tablet on the horizo...
Best Amazon Fire TV deals for February 2021: Fire TV Stick for $30 and more
The Amazon Fire TV Stick is a godsend for those of us who want to stick with our trusted non-smart television and also want to access Netflix on it, while the Fire TVs have all the capabilities of Amazon's Fire TV Stick built into the TV itself. They're generally affordably priced, but the best time to purchase one is during a sale. Below are the best Fire TV deals we could find to help you locate the right device or TV set for your home.Best Amazon Fire TV Deals Available NowFire TV devices: from $20Fire TVs: as low as $150Device bundles: starting at $67Sometimes, Amazon offers deals which are only available to Prime members, so it helps to keep your membership active while you're on the hunt.Best Cheap Fire TV Device DealsIf you have yet to cut the cable company out of your life, the devices listed below are easily worth their full price so you can finally make it happen. You might not save huge on the Fire Stick, but not paying for cable each month will save you ev...
Here's the Android TV devices being updated with Google TV
It was announced at the end of 2020 that Google TV will slowly start replacing Android TV on boxes, dongles, and smart TVs previously released by Google's Android TV partners. The new Google TV interface will also roll out on a series of new smart TVs being released by Sony and TCL. With that in mind, we've rounded up all the Android TV devices with Google TV, inlcuding a handful of Android TV devices that will be updated with Google TV in the near future. You'll also find a lineup of smart TVs with Google TV hitting the market this year.Android TV devices with Google TVThe best device right nowChromecast with Google TVStaff PickChromecast with Google TV is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to start streaming on your TV. It's also the only Android TV device on the market right now that comes with the all-new Google TV UI built in. Perks include access to most of your favorite streaming services, 4K HDR support, Dolby Vision and Atmos, and a sleek remote.$50 ...
MLB The Show 21 supports cross-play between PlayStation and Xbox
Never thought I'd see the day a game developed by Sony would come to Xbox.What you need to knowMLB The Show 21 is set to release on April 20, 2021.For the first time in franchise history, the previously PlayStation exclusive is coming to Xbox consoles.It will feature cross-play support between PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.PlayStation's popular baseball series is going cross-platform, marking the first time MLB The Show will be available on Xbox consoles. The company announced that MLB The Show will be hitting PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S on April 20, 2021. This announcement was accompanied by the reveal of its cover athlete Fernando "El Nino" Tatis Jr.In addition to cross-play support, MLB The Show 21 will also feature cross-progression, allowing players to "earn and use content on whichever platform and generation you choose." This is a welcome move as more and more games support cross-play and cross-progression, bringi...
Here's how to watch the 2021 Super Bowl live stream from anywhere
The biggest NFL game of the year, Super Bowl 2021, is set to take place in February 7, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. This year the Kansas City Chiefs will be taking on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Whether you are attending a party, planning to stay home, or will be traveling, one thing you may be wondering is how to watch the Super Bowl live stream. Well, there are a lot of different ways, and a lot to know about the ways to watch the Super Bowl live stream online.Whether you care about football or not, there is a whole lot to enjoy about the Super Bowl. From the epic Super Bowl half-time performances to the amazing commercials that will debut, you are going to want to find a way to stream it live. Luckily, it doesn't matter very much where in the world you are located, it's pretty easy to find a way to tune in and watch the Super Bowl online for free.2021 Super Bowl live: How to watch from anywhere with a VPNA Virtual Private Network, or VPN, can be used for a number of things these da...
OnePlus’ next budget phone will be called the Nord N1 5G, says new rumor
It is tipped to be a direct successor to the Nord N10 5G.What you need to knowOnePlus' follow-up to the Nord N10 5G could debut as the Nord N1 5G.There's currently no word on the key specs of the phone.It is expected to be released sometime in the second half of the year.OnePlus re-entered the mid-range smartphone segment last year with the OnePlus Nord, one of its most impressive Android phones in a long time. A few months after the launch of the Nord, the company introduced two more Nord series phones: Nord N10 5G and Nord N100 5G at more affordable price points. As per tipster Max Jambor, the next OnePlus Nord series phone will be called the Nord N1 5G.The OnePlus Nord N1 5G will apparently be a direct successor to the OnePlus Nord N10 5G. Currently, however, there's no information on the phone's specs or launch timeframe. The OnePlus Nord N10 and N100 were unveiled in October last year, so you can expect the Nord N1 to arrive sometime in the second half of the year....
Play PC VR games on the Oculus Quest 2 without the $80 official cable
For Oculus Quest 2 owners who want to play PC VR games without paying for the official, expensive Oculus cable, we'll help you find the best Quest 2 Link cable alternatives available. You'll want to look for a USB 3.0 to USB-C cable, long enough to travel from your PC to wherever you stand or sit to play your VR games. The wrong cable won't be able to handle the data or power transfer necessary for Oculus Link to work, so here are our personal favorites, the Oculus community's favorites, and Oculus' official Link alternatives.Skip the cable altogetherVirtual DesktopStaff PickIf you're willing to go the unofficial route for PC VR, the best Link cable alternative isn't a cable at all. Virtual Desktop is an official Quest store app for using a web browser in your headset, but its unofficial, sideloaded purpose is to let you wirelessly stream games from your PC to your headset. Virtual Desktop can hit 90Hz if your PC has the processing power and your router can keep up with t...
Do you think it's OK for flagship phones to have plastic designs?
Chatting with the AC forums.If you've been following the smartphone market recently, specifically with some of Samsung's most recent releases, you'll notice a new trend has been gaining popularity within the company. The Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy S20 FE, and Galaxy S21 — all phones we'd consider to be flagships or value flagships — have shipped with a plastic back.We typically expect higher-priced phones to feature glass backs, but with these handsets, we've been treated to plastic. When being asked to spend $800 or so on a smartphone, does plastic really cut it?Here's what a few of our AC forum members have to say on the matter: ctown81 01-31-2021 07:11 AM “ I like it better than the glass. Reply danhartman26 01-31-2021 07:43 AM “ I would not be opposed to a plastic back on my Note 20 Ultra ...
Upgrade your door with the Ring Video Doorbell 2 down to $70 used
The Ring Video Doorbell 2 is in used condition and going for a crazy low price of $69.99 on Amazon today only. This is a sale from Woot, Amazon's deal website, and in the couple of times we've seen this in the past it was usually only available through Woot itself. Now you can get it right on Amazon. The deal is a huge discount considering a brand new Ring 2 goes for $139, and even refurbished units are going for that much. Remember this is part of Amazon's daily deals so the price won't last forever, and sometimes products from Woot sell out before the day ends. Act fast if you're interested.The Video Doorbell 2 lets you use your mobile device or computer (or Amazon Echo device) to see, hear, and speak to anyone visiting your home. You can use the free companion app or connect the video doorbell to your smart home. It works with Amazon's Alexa so you can open up video with your voice. Just say "Alexa, talk to the front door" and you won't even have to standup to deal with your vis...
These are the best smart plugs that work with Alexa and Google Assistant
Not only are LED smart bulbs more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, but you'll feel like Tony Stark walking through your home, controlling the lighting with just your voice. Google Home is one of the tentpole home assistant platforms, and all of the bulbs listed here pair perfectly with all of the best Google Home compatible devices available. The question you need to ask yourself as a consumer is how many bulbs you need for your home and how much are you willing to spend?Full-feature smart lightsTo experience the best that smart LED lights can offer, you'll want to start with ones that are entirely customizable with the full spectrum of colors available. Because these bulbs are way more expensive than any light bulb you've probably bought in your life, you're going to want to choose a brand that can satisfy all your smart lighting needs or piece together your house plan with bulbs that don't need a hub.Light your home with colorPhilips Hue Color Smart Bul...
Save up to 40% on Anker charging cables, solar chargers, and more today
Have you found yourself lacking for power recently? Missing a cable or two to plug in all your devices? Needing a way to charge on the go? Don't let another day go by without a solution! Today one of Amazon's daily deals includes a variety of Anker wall adapters, charging cables, and power banks designed to solve just such a problem. Plus, you can get all of them at a discount with some as much as 40% off. This is a temporary sale, and these prices won't last forever.The Anker 10000mAh solar power bank has dropped to $29.99 during this sale. That's a $10 discount and one of the only deals we have seen on this device. It is relatively new, not even three months old, so there haven't been a lot of deals to speak of.The solar panel isn't the primary way to charge the system of course. It would take days to get enough power with just the solar panel, but it can augment the device and give you some extra juice over time while you're outside. The power bank is also IP64 rated to withst...
Xiaomi could get first dibs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 765G successor
The company is rumored to be working on two phones powered by the Snapdragon "SM7350" chipset.What you need to knowA new leak claims Xiaomi is working on a "Lite" variant of the Mi 11 with mid-range specs.It is tipped to come with an unannounced Snapdragon 700-series chipset, a hole-punch display, and a 64MP main camera.The vanilla Redmi K40 is also rumored to feature the same Snapdragon "SM7350" chip as the Mi 11 Lite.A new rumor out of China claims Xiaomi is working on a mid-range phone powered by an unannounced Qualcomm Snapdragon 700-series "SM7350" chipset. The phone is expected to be part of the company's Mi 11 series and could be marketed as the Mi 11 Lite (via Android Authority).Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station has claimed in a post on Weibo that the upcoming Mi 11 Lite will sport an OLED display with a hole-punch cutout for a single selfie camera. Around the back of the phone could be a triple-camera setup featuring a 64MP main sensor and a 5x telephoto lens....
Here's how Samsung can make the Galaxy S21 FE one of 2021's best phones
Making an even cheaper Galaxy S21 is going to be tricky.If there's one smartphone from 2020 that we'll remember vividly for years to come, it's the Galaxy S20 FE. The device itself isn't the most jaw-dropping or amazing thing we've ever seen, but it launched at just the right time, shipped with a killer price, and ended up earning the title of the best Android phone you can buy.Although the S20 FE shared a lot of the same DNA as the S20 and S20+, there were still a few key differences to help justify its lower price. The back design went from glass to plastic, we got slightly downgraded cameras, less RAM, and the display was made completely flat with no curves at all. None of that adversely affected the user experience of the S20 FE, but compared to the regular S20 and S20+, it was obvious that some corners had been cut.With the baseline Galaxy S21 that just came out, we're already working with many of those exact same compromises — including the plastic back, flat display, a...
Is Eero Pro 6 good for someone with a gigabit connection?
Best answer: Yes, the Eero Pro 6 mesh can deliver gigabit speeds over a Wi-Fi 6 connection thanks to a tri-band AX4200 connection with all Eero Pro 6 nodes.A tri-band for gigabit mesh speeds: Eero Pro 6 ($229 at Amazon)A basic Wi-Fi 6 Eero: Eero 6 ($129 at Amazon)A faster mesh link on the Eero Pro 6The Eero Pro 6 is the fastest Eero yet and really, the first one suited to a gigabit internet connection (about 1 Gbps). The older Eero Pro didn't have the raw speed capabilities to connect devices at a higher speed than 866.7 Mbps due to its Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) connection. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) takes the speed up to 1,201 Mbps on the same 5GHz band as the previous generation.Eero Pro 6 takes its other 5GHz band up to 2,402 Mbps to keep mesh link speeds up even with several Eero Pro 6 nodes. This may seem like overkill but this extra headroom is key to keeping your mesh speeds high since interference from obstacles in your home, as well as neighboring connections, can eat into your ...
All the best Galaxy S21 deals: Here's where to buy Samsung's new phone
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: Buy one, get oneSamsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Deals: Save up to $1,000We'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 S...
Here's everything we know (so far) about Ghostwire: Tokyo
What is Ghostwire: Tokyo? This new IP shown at Bethesda's E3 2019 is still as mysterious as it is creepy, but that just has us more intrigued.At Bethesda's E3 2019 press conference, they showed off two entirely brand new IPs — one of them was called Ghostwire: Tokyo. Creative director Ikumi Nakamura took the stage with a level of confidence, enthusiasm, and sincerity that immediately charmed the audience, and deeply contrasted with the level of creepiness and dark aesthetic beauty of the trailer she led into. Whatever Ghostwire: Tokyo is, the concepts for it presented in a CGI video look incredible.Since then, more has been revealed, with some significant footage shown during Sony's PS5 showcase, the Future of Gaming. Nakamura is no longer on the project, Mikami is now director and this game is a timed console exclusive. Here's what we now know:Jump to:What is Ghostwire: Tokyo?What is the story?Check out the trailersWhat's the gameplay like?You can pet dogs!Why did ...
The first Motorola phone to get Android 11 is the stylus-toting Moto G Pro
Motorola has promised to upgrade 23 of its phones to Android 11 this year.What you need to knowThe Moto G Pro has started receiving the stable Android 11 update.Along with Android 11, the update also brings the January 2021 security patch.The rollout appears to be limited to users in the UK currently.Nearly five months after the release of the Android 11 stable version, Motorola has finally started updating its Moto G Pro to the latest Android version. In the coming weeks, we expect more devices from the company's confusing lineup to receive Android 11 (via GSMArena). Motorola's best Android phones, including the flagship Edge+, are currently running Android 10.As per screenshots shared by Moto G Pro users on Reddit, the update weighs in at 1.1GB in size and comes with the January 2021 Android security patch. Since the Moto G Pro is an Android One phone, the update brings all of the best Android 11 features. Some of the key new features listed in the official changelog in...
Five things I like about the Galaxy Buds Pro — and one thing I don't
Samsung's latest wireless earbuds take on the best that Sony and Bose have to offer — and come out ahead.Samsung may have been a recent entrant into the world of wireless audio — the Galaxy Buds came out just two years ago — but it managed to leverage its AKG acquisition to go up against entrenched brands. The brand showed off its ANC prowess with last year's Buds Live, and it has built on those fundamentals with the Buds Pro, which launched alongside the Galaxy S21 series.The Buds Pro deliver excellent sound, a design that provides a secure fit, and all the features you'd want from premium wireless earbuds. It's no wonder, then, that the Buds Pro are sitting at the top of our best wireless earbuds list. I've been using the Buds Pro for just over a week now, and here's what I like about the earbuds, and where Samsung needs to improve.Galaxy Buds Pro deliver outstanding ANCWith the Buds Pro, Samsung is showing that it can hold its own against Sony and Bose when it come...
Get ready for the future with the best 5G phones you can buy today
New technology works best when everyone commits to it, and in 2021, 5G has gone from marketing hype to a legit feature. In other words, you'll want to find the best 5G phones to future-proof yourself. A ton of support from carriers and smartphone companies is going to flood the market with 5G-capable phones this year. 5G isn't everywhere (yet), but if you live in a place with a 5G network, these are the best 5G phones you can buy, although the Galaxy S21 Ultra tops our list.Best 5G Phone Overall: Samsung Galaxy S21 UltraThe Galaxy S21 Ultra is the first proper flagship of 2021, and looking ahead, it'll be mighty hard for any company to dethrone the S21 Ultra as one of the best Android phones of the entire year.Samsung got so much right with this thing, and it all starts with the display. The S21 Ultra is packing a massive 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel that can hit a max resolution of 3200x1440. Unlike last year's S20 Ultra, you can run the display in that Quad HD setting wi...
This small yet powerful massage gun is 30% off MSRP today
Source: StackCommerceIf fitness was part of your New Year's resolution, you might be dealing with sore muscles right now. The small yet powerful MINIREX massage gun helps speed up your recovery, and it's currently just $139.99.Unlike top athletes, most of us don't have 24-hour access to a physio. With MINIREX, you can fix the aches and pains yourself. This device measures just six inches long, but it's even more effective than a strong pair of hands.With four speeds to choose from and four different attachments, you can target every muscle group at the perfect intensity. The massage gun also has a long handle, allowing you to reach awkward spots.The MINIREX has a high stall force, which ensures you get the maximum effect in terms of circulation and tissue repair. It's also very quiet, and the rechargeable battery offers three hours of usage.According to YouTube fitness instructor Jason B., the MINIREX is: "a lot more aggressive (in a good way) than the cheap Amazon massag...
Should you upgrade from the Galaxy S20 to the S21?
The new hotnessSamsung Galaxy S21From $800 at SamsungFrom $800 at AmazonProsSnappy new processor with better 5GThe latest Samsung softwareUpgraded camerasFlat screen with 120Hz is easier to hold and useGet it for $100 with S20 trade-inConsPlastic back Sidegrade in screen qualityNo more microSD slotSamsung is finally realizing that less is more, and nowhere is this lesson more apparent than a Galaxy S21 that aims for the average consumer's needs rather than playing to bleeding-edge spec hounds. There's also a nice visual update and support for standalone and mmWave 5G.Niche appealSamsung Galaxy S20$700 at SamsungProsHigher resolution screenMST support in Samsung PaymicroSD card supportGlass backConsIt's not being sold new anymoreLess 5G compatibilityThe Galaxy S20 was one of the best phones of last year, so if the incredible trade-in values don't lure you in, you can stick to a phone with great performance, good cameras, and a...
From the Editor's Desk: LG's Greatest Hits
If LG does eventually exit the mobile business, it won't be for lack of ambitious ideas over the years.The future of LG's mobile division is uncertain, with anything from a significant restructuring to a sell-off reportedly being on the table. LG has said it's open to "all possibilities," and so it follows that one of those possibilities is a situation where LG no longer sells smartphones. That would be a natural end point for a division that's been losing money for more than half a decade, despite multiple attempted restarts under different executives.Equally, based on its current earnings, the conglomerate could easily afford to continue propping up its mobile arm. However, the tone seems different this time around.If this really is the end of LG Mobile, it won't be because it's spent the past six years producing bad products. Although our roundup of the best Android phones is bereft of LG handsets on account of recent efforts like the Velvet and Wing being duds, LG's back ca...
These small Android phones fit your hand and pocket perfectly
In just a few short years, big phones have gone from being an outlier to the norm in the smartphone industry. Just about every major device that's released these days has a larger physical size, and while that's great for watching movies and playing games, it can be a challenge for those of us that prefer our phones to be small and compact. Thankfully, there are still plenty of options out there — including the Google Pixel 4a as our top overall pick. If you're looking eagerly at that iPhone 12 mini but don't want to switch over to iOS, these are the best small Android phones you can buy.Best Overall: Google Pixel 4aRegardless of size, the Pixel 4a is just one of the best Android phones you can buy right now. It isn't the most technically impressive handset on the market, but the value on offer is tremendous.As you'd expect from any Pixel, the Pixel 4a takes incredible photos. Whether you're shooting in broad daylight or trying to take a picture of the night sky using the A...
Review: Google Stadia is finally worth it in 2021
After over a year on the market, Google Stadia is finally starting to prove itself as a legitimate gaming platform.Despite the fact that I was an early adopter of Google Stadia and pre-ordered the Founder's Edition the same day it was revealed, it would be a stretch to say I was "happy" with the platform over the first eight or so months. Not only was it lacking many of the kinds of games I actually wanted to play, but it was missing features and just felt incomplete. It was as if they were charging me to beta test the product after suckering me in with the appealing marketing messages.And after using Stadia for over a year, I feel even more strongly about those first eight months. Google was wrong to launch Stadia the way that it did, in the state that it did, and I think it significantly harmed the reputation of not only Stadia but cloud gaming services as a whole.After all that time though, roughly 13 months later, I'm here to say that Stadia is finally worth it. You can acc...
These Aukey true wireless earbuds on sale for $27 have USB-C fast charging
If you need a good pair of earbuds that aren't too expensive but still have some excellent features, grab the Aukey EP-T27 USB-C true wireless earbuds. They are down to $27.49 right now when you clip the $15 off on-page coupon. Considering they are already on sale at the $42.49 going price compared to their regular $50 street price, you're saving a whole lot today.These aren't the only Aukey earbuds on sale today, either. Want to pay even less? Get 10% off these $16 Aukey true wireless earbuds that also have USB-C and Quick Charge tech built in.You're going to get some high-quality sound out of these earbuds, especially for what you're paying. They have stunning stereo sound and a high-fidelity soundstage. That's thanks to Qualcomm's Bluetooth Audio system on a chip. It integrates support for aptX and AAC codex and delivers on the sound it promises.You can also use these earbuds to answer the phone. Thanks to cVc 8.0 noise cancellation tech, the earbuds are designed to filter o...
Stream your shows with the Hisense 75-inch 4K Android TV down to $650
One of Best Buy's deals of the day includes a Hisense 75-inch 4K HDR Android TV on sale for $649.99. That's $350 off its regular price and just $50 off the lowest price we've ever seen on this TV. It dropped this low during a different deal of the day in early January, but other than that the last time it was this low was Black Friday. Of course this price disappears by tomorrow, though, so you'll want to act if you need a big screen for the big game.Our review of the Hisense H65 series gave it 4 stars out of 5 and called it "almost perfect." Andrew Myrick said, "The combination of a great 4K HDR picture, along with Dolby Vision and the inclusion of Android TV makes for an excellent experience overall. The software even has some tricks to enhance your viewing."The 75-inch TV has a ton of great options for enhancing your image quality and giving a great viewing experience overall. For one thing, it has 4K resolutions. Plus with support for HDR through HLG, HDR10, and Dolby Vision ...
Customize your Telegram messaging experience with themes
One of the great things about the best messaging apps is that you can customize and craft them to look just the way you want them. It's true of Signal, it's true of WhatsApp, and of course, it's true of Telegram. We'll show you just how easy it is to change your theme, backgrounds, and chat settings on Telegram so that your messaging experience is as colorful as you are.How to change your theme and chat settings on TelegramOpen the Telegram app on your phone.Tap on the menu icon in the top left corner.Tap on Settings.Tap on Chat Settings. From here, you can customize nearly every design feature of your chats, including text size and bubble shape, and color.Tap on Change Chat Background.Scroll through the available Chat Background options. You can upload your own Chat Background by tapping on Select from Gallery, or just choose to Set a color.Select your favorite background. Tap on Blurred or Motion to change the effect of your Chat Background.Tap Set Background to co...
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