Latest from Android Central

Privacy and security are two very different things that often get lumped together. Especially when it comes to messaging apps.You just got one of the best Android phones and chances are one of the first things you'll do is message a friend to tell them the good news.When we send a message to someone, we should expect a few things: that they'll get the message, nobody else can read the message, and no other company is tracking anything we do while we're chatting it up. Unfortunately, it doesn't usually work that way.Most one-on-one ways to message someone are secure to an extent. Nobody can read your Twitter DMs unless they are logged in as you. Google and Facebook spend a lot of money to make sure the servers that transmit messages are locked-down tight. Apps like Signal and Telegram are developed with help from security specialists to make them secure. Most messengers are secure, but few are actually private.Unfortunately, privacy is another matter. Most messaging apps ...

Nothing teams up with Swedish audio pioneer teenage engineering.What you need to knowCarl Pei's audio venture Nothing has announced Swedish-based teenage engineering as a founding partner.Teenage engineering makes synthesizers and wireless audio products that stand out for their design. Nothing will leverage teenage engineering's unique design aesthetic for its upcoming products. Carl Pei's audio startup Nothing will unveil its first products over the coming months, and the brand has positioned design as a key differentiator. Now we have a better understanding of the direction Nothing intends to take in the audio category; the brand has announced Swedish audio brand teenage engineering as a founding partner.Teenage engineering was established back in 2005, and the Swedish brand rolled out its first synthesizer, the OP-1, in 2011. The synthesizer stood out for its unique design and feature-set and gained momentum with musicians (Swedish House Mafia and OK Go used it extens...

The Narzo 30 Pro 5G is the company's first budget phone to offer a 120Hz display.What you need to knowRealme has introduced two new budget phones under the Narzo series.The Narzo 30 Pro comes with a MediaTek Dimensity 800U 5G chipset, triple rear cameras, and a 120Hz display. Realme's new entry-level Narzo 30A has a Helio G85 processor and a 6.5-inch HD+ display. Ahead of the launch of Xiaomi's Redmi Note 10 series phones on March 4, Realme today unveiled the latest additions to its Narzo series in India. The new Narzo 30 Pro is the first 5G-enabled phone to launch under the Narzo series.The Realme Narzo 30 Pro comes with an impressive 6.5-inch FHD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 180Hz touch sampling rate. It is powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 800U 5G chipset, coupled with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB UFS 2.1 storage. Around the back of the phone is a triple-camera setup featuring a 48MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. Keeping...

Even though Madden NFL 21 is one of the weakest recent entries in the franchise, it's still an excellent port that runs beautifully on Stadia.The Stadia community is in a weird spot with Madden NFL 21. On the one hand, it's not a great game in the franchise and has very few updates or changes that make it stand out from recent years. However, on the other hand, it's the first and only Madden game on Stadia and as a debut, it's actually quite robust with a really good foundation. It's not one of the best Stadia games by any means, but for sports fans, it certainly scratches an itch.So if you want to show EA that you're eager to have Madden and other sports titles on Stadia, buying it is the best way to do that. That said, it could also further encourage the laziness that's become so prevalent with this franchise over the years. Bit of a toss-up either way.At a glanceMadden NFL 21 on Stadia ...

Xiaomi has finally created a phone that beats the best that Samsung has to offer.I've used all Xiaomi phones in the Mi numbered series starting with the Mi 3. The Mi 3 and Mi 4 offered outstanding value for money and set up Xiaomi as a viable alternative to established brands in countries like India. The Mi 5 continued that push with a gorgeous metal and glass design, the Mi 5s switched to an all-metal aesthetic, the Mi 6 showcased Xiaomi's hardware and camera prowess, the Mi 8 saw the introduction of the notch, and the Mi 9 had a great camera but was a letdown in terms of software.Xiaomi changed its strategy last year, focusing on the high-end segment with the Mi 10 Pro. The regular Mi 10 was aimed at value-focused buyers, with both phones offering outstanding cameras and a gorgeous design that made them hold their own against the Galaxy S20.Ultimately, it was the software that let down the Mi 10 and Mi 10 Pro. Software issues have been a constant thorn in Xiaomi's side over t...

Power outages in Texas shined a new light on the internet situation in the U.S.What you need to knowCalifornia is now free to enforce its net neutrality law that it tried to enact in 2018 to counter the Trump administration.This would make California the first state to enforce its own net neutrality law in the U.S.The move could open the door for other states to do the same if the FCC doesn't act first.Net neutrality has just scored a major win thanks to a recent federal ruling against the injunction to block the California Internet Consumer Protection and Net Neutrality Act of 2018. The bill, also known as SB-822, was first drafted in 2018 after the Trump administration rolled back net neutrality protections a year prior. It was initially blocked by the Department of Justice, which dropped the lawsuit just this month, removing one major hurdle to get the bill passed. This recent ruling was another.The decision is a blow to some of the best 5G carriers and major telecom c...

BTS is heading to the MTV Unplugged stage for an acoustic performance of songs from the group's latest album, Be. The iconic MTV series which has overseen famous musicians stripping back their songs for intimate performances since the late 1980s may not debut new episodes all that often anymore, though this month's event is certain to be a blast.Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook will be performing a collection of their hit songs like "Dynamite" straight from Seoul, South Korea, though thanks to MTV Unplugged, fans from all over the world will be able to watch their performance live.MTV Unplugged presents BTS: When & whereMTV Unplugged presents BTS airs on MTV this Tuesday, February 23 at 9 p.m. ET. Considering MTV is available through cable packages and live TV streaming services, there are no shortages of ways to watch the show live. Even if you're not located in the U.S., you can watch MTV Unplugged live using a VPN easily.How to watch MTV live from anywhe...

If you're wary about the foldables form factor, this offer lets you dip your toes in the water.What you need to knowSamsung today announced a new 100-day Buy and Try program for foldables.Buyers will have up to 100 days to use a Galaxy Z Flip or Z Fold 2 and see if it's right for them.The program runs through April 1st.Samsung is making its foldables a more attractive purchase in a way that goes beyond simple price cuts. Now, it's extending the return window for the Galaxy Z Flip 5G and Galaxy Z Fold 2. Where it was a standard 15 days, it'll now be returnable for 100 days. Dubbed the Buy and Try program, users would have up to three months to really get their head around using a foldable and adapt to the new form factor before deciding if they wanted to go in for the long haul or return it.Speaking to The Verge on Tuesday, a Samsung spokesperson said: This new initiative will help consumers try and see if a foldable device is right for them, as part of Samsung's commi...

The gang react to all the announcements from the latest Nintendo Direct! They also cover an update to No Man's Sky that enables adopting creatures as pets. Now you can live out all your Jurassic Space fantasies!Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:Everything Nintendo announced at its first 2021 Nintendo Direct | iMorePyra and Mythra from Xenoblade 2 join Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | iMoreProject Triangle Strategy announced for Nintendo Switch, demo available later today | iMoreThe Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD flies onto the Nintendo Switch | iMoreNintendo is releasing a new pair of Zelda-themed Joy-Con | iMoreNo Man's Sky update lets you adopt space pets | Android CentralNo Man's Sky update turns the game into Jurassic Park and I love it | Android Central...

The day of PlayStation news is not yet over.What you need to knowSony announcd a new State of Play for February 25 at 5:00 p.m. ET.The show will be about 30 minutes long, featuring new titles and games previously announced.There will be no hardware or business-related announcements.Sony is bringing back the State of Play PlayStation showcase format for 2021 with a State of Play coming on February 25, 2021 at 5:00 p.m ET. The event will feature 10 games, which will be a mix of PS4 and PS5 titles, including new games and some games that were first announced back at Sony's June 2020 PS5 showcase, the Future of Gaming. This show will be 30 minutes long "give or take."Sony shared quite a bit of PlayStation news today, with the official announcement of the next iteration of PSVR being designed for the PS5. Additionally, Gran Turismo 7 has been delayed out of 2021 due to development being impacted by the global pandemic, while Days Gone is leading a "slate" of new PlayStation ti...

Smart lights are a compelling way to turn your living space into something a bit more exciting than the norm. On top of their convenient features, like the ability to turn on when you come home or turn off when you leave, many offer a wide variety of colors you can use to set a mood. Govee has a number of products that fit within this smart home niche, and its latest pair of smart lighting gadgets have some interesting features for jazzing up a space.Govee is introducing the Flow Pro Wi-Fi TV Light Bars and the Aura Smart Table Lamp. While the two products fit different parts of your home, they have some similarities when it comes to making your home a little more colorful.Both the Flow Pro light bars and the Aura lamp have color in mind, offering over 16 millions colors from multiple LEDs contained within the devices' housing. This allows for solid and blended colors, so you can get some unique color effects. Whether you want calming shades or something more high-energy, you've ...

The Play Music service was discontinued two months back.Update, Feb 23 (4:15 pm ET): Today is the last day to download or transfer your tunes before they're gone foreverWhat you need to knowGoogle will delete all data related to Play Music on February 24.You can download all your Play Music library and data using Google Takeout before the deadlineYou will not be able to recover your uploads or purchases from Google Play Music after February 24.Google finally pulled the plug on its Play Music streaming service late last year. While Play Music may be dead, Google is still allowing users to download their data from the app and transfer it to YouTube Music. However, the tech giant has now started sending out emails to Play Music users, warning them that they will no longer be able to recover their data after February 24.The email reads: On February 24, 2021, we will delete all of your Google Play Music data. This includes your music library with any uploads, purchases...

The best Chromebook docking stations can turn your laptop from on-the-go ready to comfortably cozy by plugging in a single USB-C cable. When you're home and want to use a clicky mechanical keyboard, an ergonomic mouse, or add a secondary display, docking stations are here to keep things tidy and organized. While you could maybe get by with some tiny USB-C hub, the cables are usually too short and leave your desk cluttered, while docking stations help keep things connected while staying out of your way. If you need to get your Chromebook connected, these are the best docking stations.Keep it tidyPluggable USB Mini Docking StationStaff PickThis compact docking station won't take up much desk space, but it still has enough space for four USB-A peripherals, an HDMI monitor, Ethernet, and an audio jack for some speakers. It can also charge your Chromebook at full speed.$129 at Amazon $129 at WalmartTall or flat, your choiceBaseus 16-in-1 USB-C DockSome folks prefer a...

It's not clear what utility this would serve.What you need to knowGoogle is working on a screen recording feature for Wear OS.Code strings hinting at this are present on the Wear OS watch companion app.Screen recording will also be coming to the Chrome OS platform next month.Google is said to be testing a new screen recording feature for Wear OS devices. When this rolls out, you'll be able to capture a screen recording of your interactions with your smartwatch, and later export it to your smartphone via the Android share sheet.Today's report comes from XDA Developers who delved into the newest builds of the Wear OS companion app and found the following code strings:<string name="screen_recording_email_subject">Wear OS Screen Recording</string><string name="screen_recording_wearable_notification_text">Tap to send.</string><string name="screen_recording_wearable_notification_title">Ready to send watch screen recording.</string>From...

With the hosts bouncing back in Chennai to level the series, the Men In Blue will look to turn the screw as the action moves to Ahmedabad - watch every ball of the 3rd Test with our India vs England live stream guide below.Marking its first major event since a major refurbishment, this day/night match will be played within the grand setting of the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad, commonly known as the Motera Stadium and now claimed to be the world's largest cricket ground thanks to its new seated capacity of 110,000.While COVID-19 restrictions mean the stadium will only be able to accommodate half that number, the roar of the home crowd is sure to be a big factor in proceedings here.With India winning the 2nd Test somewhat comprehensively, England look set to ring the changes with Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Zak Crawley and Jimmy Anderson all in contention for returning to the team, with Olly Stone, Rory Burns and Dan Lawrence looking set to make way.Despite their dominant ...

Using one of the best robot vacuums to help you keep your house clean may be one of the smartest decisions that you can make right now. Over the past few years, robot vacuums have become much smarter, they last longer, and clean better. Options like the Roborock S4 Max, which happens to top the list of our best robot vacuums, lets you control it with just your voice. You can also set schedules and the sensors help prevent it from just bumping into everything.What are the best robot vacuums you can buy today?There are a LOT of great robot vacuum models that are available right now, and picking the right one can be a difficult task. We've done the research, though, and narrowed down all the picks into a concise list of only the top robot vacuum picks.Our full list is below, but we believe that when you look for a single best overall pick the Roborock S4 Max is the best robot vacuum on the market today for most people. It offers all the standard features you'd expect to see in a rob...

Talks with a Vietnamese conglomerate have broken down over price differences.What you need to knowReports indicate that LG has yet to find a buyer for its smartphone business.LG was in talks to sell the business to Vingroup, but price differences were too great.The company maintains that it will launch its rollable phone this year, despite rumors indicating otherwise.Things are not looking good for LG. The company's mobile division has been a weak link for the past six years, unable to compete with some of the best Android phones on the market. Now looks like it's having trouble letting go of this money-losing machine. LG has reportedly been looking to sell its smartphone business as part of its latest restructuring, but it turns out it may not be so easy to find a buyer.The Korea Times reports that talks to sell the smartphone business to Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup have broken down. Apparently, the price was the main determinant, according to an official familiar w...

The NVIDIA Shield TV is a fantastic device for streaming the best movies and TV shows from your favorite streaming services — but the included remotes and gaming controllers are pretty lousy for inputting your log-in credentials or searching for content. Fortunately, there's support for wireless and Bluetooth keyboards for NVIDIA Shield TV that will make things oh so much easier!The best right nowLogitech K600 TV Wireless KeyboardStaff pickThe Logitech K600 TV Wireless Keyboard makes browsing the web and navigating your NVIDIA Shield TV more user-friendly. It also connects wirelessly to smart TVs from up to 50 feet away and has the ability to connect to several devices simultaneously.$57 at Amazon$60 at Best Buy$70 at LogitechWireless USB with trackpadLogitech K400 Plus Wireless Touch TV KeyboardThis compact and comfortable keyboard connects via USB with a 33-foot range that's perfect for your living room. The built-in trackpad and volume controls are great, a...

So you've decided to enter the world of emulation on Android and want to learn how to emulate NES, SNES, or Nintendo DS games. There are a couple of steps you need to take before diving in — as you won't find any games listed on the Play Store. Nevertheless, we've got you covered, here's everything you need to know on how to emulate some of your favorite, old-school games on Android.Using the right emulatorBefore you can begin playing those old-school classics on Android, you'll need to find the best emulators for Android first. There are quite a few different options at your disposal, as a quick search through the Google Play Store reveals more than a few emulators alongside some of the best Android games. However, picking the right emulator for your needs comes down to whatever game you are trying to play.There are all-in-one solutions, such as ClassicBoy or RetroArch. But there are also emulators available that are designed to work with just one type of console, such as ...

More features continue to be uncovered in the first Android 12 Developer Preview.What you need to knowA few more features are coming out of the Android 12 Developer Preview.The rumored conversations widget is currently dubbed "People Space" while under development.There's also a hidden gaming toolbar and a native App Pairs feature.The first Developer Preview for Android 12 ended up having more features than anyone realized it would, with more and more showing up each day. Much of what's been discovered can be found in our Android 12 Developer Preview hands-on, and yet there's still more to discover, a lot of which appears to be laying the groundwork for upcoming features.App Pairs was a feature that was previously rumored to come to the platform. It's a feature that the Microsoft Surface Duo and even some of the best Samsung phones already have, allowing users to group two apps and open them in a split-screen mode. The current implementation on Android 12 (via XDA-Dev...

Google also played hardball with Australia before negotiations.What you need to knowFacebook had pulled all news from Australia in response to the controversial News Media Bargaining Code.The company now plans to restore news links and pages in the country following negotiations. Facebook says it had "come to an agreement that will allow us to support the publishers we choose to, including small and local publishers."Facebook last week came under fire for pulling all news links and pages shared on its platform in Australia. The company took such dramatic action in response to the country's proposed News Media Bargaining Code, a law that would compel social media companies like Facebook and Google to pay news publishers for links.Facebook today shared an update to its blog post: We're pleased that we've been able to reach an agreement with the Australian government and appreciate the constructive discussions we've had with Treasurer Frydenberg and Minister Fletcher ove...

The main perk of VR workouts is that you don't need to buy gym equipment or even go outside to burn calories; all you need is your headset! Yet without the right tools, you're liable to turn your Oculus Quest 2 into a sweaty, germy mess, or even potentially damage your equipment or injure yourself. Here are the best VR workout accessories that'll make your daily indoor fitness routine that much cleaner, safer, and more fun.Stylish non-slip sweat-catcherTreadBands All Terrain Tieback Non Slip HeadbandStaff PickThe default Quest 2 facial interface is a sweat sponge, while replacement covers repel sweat so it drips down your face. You need a headband for prolonged workouts, and this moisture-wicking TreadBands accessory is especially great for VR because it has a soft rubber strip on the inside that helps it stay in place, where others would likely slip onto your face. There are over 30 stylish and silly designs to choose from, but all of them are comfortable and a must-have...

It's never too soon to start saving. Sure, the Google Pixel 5 is still brand new, but thanks to carriers and stores competing for your business, it's usually not too difficult to find an early discount on a popular product such as this. Pixel 5 deals may be limited at first, but we expect we'll be seeing plenty of offers in no time with carrier discounts arriving first and deals on unlocked devices following. Of course, if the Pixel 5 is out of your price range, there are also some stellar Pixel 4a deals available right now.Best Pixel 5 Deals Available NowWhere to buy the Pixel 5Carrier Deals: Trade-in or BOGOUnlocked deals: Up to $100 offThe Google Pixel 5 offers a number of solid improvements upon the Pixel 4. Though its predecessor received some flak for its bad battery life, the Pixel 5 includes a 4080mAh battery that's miles better than the 2800mAh battery found in the Pixel 4. The cameras are receiving an upgrade as well; the telephoto lens from the Pixel 4 has be...

Google's Pixel smartphones are some of the best Android devices ever released, but if you're hoping to get your hands on one of these stellar devices at a discount, you should first take a look at the recently released Google Pixel 4a models. This model takes the best features of the Google Pixel 4 and places them in a more affordable package. Snagging a great deal on one isn't so tough either; we've gathered the best offers available right now and put them in a list just below. Then again, there are some excellent Pixel 5 deals to consider too if you'd rather purchase an upgraded model.Best Google Pixel 4a Deals Available NowPixel 4a 5G: up to $440 backPixel 4a: get one for free!Google Pixel 4a with $150 Mastercard and free Fire TV Stick | $336 at VisibleVisible's deal offers the 128GB device for $336, or as low as $14 per month, with a $150 Mastercard gift card after 2 months of service. You have to bring over your number from your current carrier to be eligible fo...

With Google Assistant already here, buyers now have more choice when it comes to digital assistants.What you need to knowThe OnePlus Nord N10 5G now supports hands-free Alexa.It's available to OnePlus Nord N10 5G phones sold in the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.A selection of other OnePlus phones already support this feature.The OnePlus Nord N10 5G is one of OnePlus's cheapest phones, bringing the best of OnePlus and Android into a package that aims lower than the ambitious OnePlus Nord. Now, the company has confirmed the inclusion of a new value-add, hands-free Alexa.While Alexa does exist on Android as a discrete app, users are unable to use it as a virtual assistant to the degree that Google Assistant can be used. For instance, I can place my Pixel on the desk and say "Hey Google" to issue a series of commands to it. I cannot do the same for Alexa unless I'm using one of Amazon's phones marketed with Alexa built-in. The OnePlus Nord N10 5G isn't one of those ph...

Take one look at the Amazon Fire TV and it's easy to understand why it's one of the best streaming devices on the market. There are models available for all different use cases, including those who just want a small TV in a den, or those who want to build out the ultimate home theater system. To make that happen, you're going to make sure you have the best TV for the Amazon Fire TV in your home, and we've rounded up some of the best options.Best Overall: Sony X800HThose looking for a solid 4K TV but don't want to break the bank will be more than satisfied with the Sony X800H. Not only is this a great all-around TV, but it's also one of the best Android TVs that you can find. You'll get fantastic picture quality from the 4K LED panel, which is complete with 4K upscaling, along with featuring both HDR and Dolby Vision.The X800H is even Dolby Atmos certified, providing a great balance of sound for whatever you are watching or playing. You'll also have the added benefit of being ...

Several Android apps are being updated with new enhancements for your phone.What you need to knowAndroid is introducing updates for several of its apps and services.Google Messages is gaining the option to schedule messages and dark mode is rolling out for Google Maps.More features include TalkBack and Android Auto improvements, as well as an expanded Password Checkup to monitor for compromised passwords.Google is preparing to bring a suite of new features with Android 12, which has just entered its first Developer Preview. While we try to dig into some of the features that Google is working on for its next major release, the company is also releasing updates to individual apps and services that users can take advantage of now. It's similar to a Feature Drop that Google pushes out to its own devices like the Google Pixel 5, but the best part is that you don't need to have the best Android phones to take advantage of many of these new updates.The first update comes to Go...

PixelJunk Raiders is a brand new Stadia exclusive launching on March 1 for $20 or free for Stadia Pro subscribers.What you need to knowPixelJunk Raiders is a procedurally generated action roguelike releasing on March 1 as a Stadia exclusive.Stadia Pro subscribers can play PixelJunk Raiders for free at no additional cost.State Share is used for asynchronous multiplayer features.Q-Games has been makin PixelJunk games for 14 years now, with the original PixelJunk Racers hitting the PS3 back in 2007. Since then, it's been a primarily PlayStation franchise with entries in a wide range of genres from racing, shooting, platformer, tower-defense, and more. But all things considered, PixelJunk Raiders looks to be the biggest diversion in the series' history to date both in terms of the target platform and the genre.PixelJunk Raiders is coming to Stadia exclusively on March 1 for $20, but you can access it for free at no additional cost if you're a Stadia Pro subscriber. This is th...

Soundbars have come a long way in the last few years, offering great sound while taking up less space and costing far less. Our criteria for the best soundbars start with: bars that won't bankrupt you, come with the best streaming devices or smart assistants built-in, and create powerful sound without relying on subwoofers or rear speakers. The Sonos Beam will astonish you with its huge sound in a small, reasonably-priced package, but we have plenty of other great options to consider below.Best Soundbar Overall: Sonos Beam Smart TV Sound BarWith the Sonos Beam, you get the best soundbar with some basic smarts. The Sonos Beam connects to your TV with HDMI-ARC or with the included HDMI-to-Optical adapter. A recent update has brought the ability for integration between Sonos products and Google Assistant. You can control your TV with your voice if your TV supports HDMI-CEC, which most modern sets do. Controlling your TV with your voice isn't a replacement for a remote, but it's an...

Sometimes it's just as important to lower your heart rate.What you need to knowFitbit Premium has partnered with mindfulness guru Deepak Chopra to offer guided meditation sessions to its subscribers.Chopra's Mindful Method sessions will focus on sleep, stress management, and the mind-body connection.The new sessions are available to Fitbit Premium subscribers starting today.Fitbit has offered its Premium subscription service for a few years now, continuously adding features like games, contests, and guided workouts. One of the areas that it is really trying to build up during these stressful times is its mindfulness offerings. To that end, the company has partnered with renowned mindfulness champion Deepak Chopra, M.D. to offer a series of mindfulness exercises and guided sessions called Deepak Chopra's Mindful Method.The new audio and video sessions, which Mr. Chopra himself leads, focus on areas such as mindfulness, sleep, stress management, mental wellness, and the m...

I wouldn't expect blockbuster AAA titles, but this is good news for smaller indie games.What you need to knowPlayStation is committed to bringing new releases into PlayStation Plus.Recently titles like Bugsnax and Destruction AllStars launched into PlayStation's subscription service for PS5.Sony's Jim Ryan confirmed this news in an interview with GQ Magazine.Today's been a big day for PlayStation news. We learned more details about Sony's next-gen PSVR 2, the company's PlayStation At Home initiative is coming back, and it's committed to bringing more PlayStation games to PC starting with Days Gone. In that same interview with GQ Magazine where Sony's Jim Ryan revealed the PC news, he also confirmed that new games would continue to launch into PlayStation Plus.Since Sony has increasingly released new games into PS Plus as of late, like Bugsnax and Destruction AllStars, GQ asked Ryan up front whether this pattern will continue. Yes, it is. We see this is a very interest...

The OnePlus Nord series is a bold new direction for the Chinese manufacturer.The OnePlus Nord marks the start of a new product line for OnePlus. The company is getting back to its roots of creating truly affordable smartphones that deliver quality user experiences for as little money as possible — something it's shifted away from with devices like the OnePlus 8T.OnePlus Nord is one of the most enticing phones from OnePlus we've seen in a while, and if you're eager to learn all about it, you've come to the right place. The Nord isn't just the only phone in the Nord series, with the Nord N10 5G and N100 5G also available in select markets around the world, including the U.S. From official specs, pricing, availability, and our take on the devices, here's everything you need to know about OnePlus Nord series.All about the balanceOnePlus Nord N10 5G$300 at Amazon$300 at B&H PhotoThe Nord comes to the U.S.The OnePlus Nord N10 5G has a 5G-enabled Snapdragon 690 chip...

The phone could possibly be unveiled at the 'Made by Google' event in the fourth quarter of the year.What you need to knowSamsung Display is reportedly developing foldable OLED panels for an upcoming Google Pixel phone.The upcoming foldable Pixel is tipped to have a 7.6-inch main display and could debut sometime in the second half of the year.Xiaomi and OPPO are also said to have ordered foldable OLED panels from Samsung Display.Last year, an internal Android document had revealed that Google was working on a foldable phone codenamed "passport" for 2021. More details on the upcoming foldable Pixel have now emerged, courtesy of Korean publication The Elec.As per the new report, Samsung Display is currently developing foldable OLED panels for Google, Xiaomi, and OPPO. The foldable Pixel will apparently have a 7.6-inch main display, just like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 2. Aside from the display size, however, the report doesn't reveal anything else about the device.OPPO is ti...

Everyone loves free games and this time PS Plus is not required.What you need to knowSony's bringing back its PlayStation At Home initiative, offering free games and entertainment on PS5.PlayStation At Home begins on March 1 and will last for four months.The first free game will be Ratchet & Clank (PS4) from Insomniac.Sony launched its PlayStation At Home initiative last year in the midst of the pandemic, and it's continuing the tradition this year. PlayStation At Home will begin on March 1 and last for four months until June, bringing even more free games and entertainment to PS5 and PS4 users.Ratchet & Clank kicks of PlayStation At Home starting on March 1. Insomniac's title from 2016 is getting a sequel in June with Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, so this is the perfect opportunity to dive into the series. It will be available to all PlayStation users for free for one month until April 1. After you redeem the game during this period it's yours to keep forever....

Best answer: Yes, Visible does support unlocked phones that are fully paid off and not tied to a specific carrier, but phones must be compatible with Visible's network. To find out whether or not your phone will work, check a list of compatible models on Visible's website.Bring your own device: Visible ($40/month at Visible)Why should you get Visible?So you own an unlocked phone but need a better data plan. You'd be crazy not to consider Verizon's Visible, which offers unlimited data, texting, and calling with a great network at only $40 per month—no contracts, commitments, hidden fees, or scary bills. It's one of the best prepaid plans around. With Visible you'll have access to Verizon's 5G network as long as your phone is compatible, and you'll get the bonus of unlimited hotspot data (though speed is capped at 5MBps). It's an awesome plan for anyone who needs a lot of data, and even for families, friends, and roommates who want to save some money. By signing up four lines w...

Cross your fingers for Bloodborne on PC. But until then we can look forward to some other titles.What you need to knowA slate of PlayStation exclusive games are coming to PC starting this spring.Days Gone, the post-apocalyptic title from Bend Studio, will be the first.Though it was not confirmed, this is one step closer to getting Bloodborne on PC.In an interview with GQ Magazine, PlayStation boss Jim Ryan talked PS5 availability, PSVR 2, and revealed that more PlayStation exclusive games will be coming to PC. Days Gone is set to kick off this wave of games this spring, and although we don't know how many will eventually hit the platform, there will definitely be more coming.When asked why PlayStation decided to finally release games on PC after being reticent in the past to do so, Ryan responded by pointing to the cost of creating games and the opportunity to grow their audience. I think a few things changed. We find ourselves now in early 2021 with our development s...

You won't be going hands-on with the next entry this year.What you need to knowGran Turismo 7 is an upcoming PS5 racing title being developed by Polyphony Digital.It was originally slated to release sometime in 2021.Sony confirmed today that Gran Turismo 7 is delayed in 2022 due to development challenges during the pandemic.Gran Turismo 7 is delayed to 2022. This upcoming racing title from Sony Worldwide Studios developer Polyphony Digital was first revealed at the June 2020 Future of Gaming PS5 event. It's been pushed back as a result of the global pandemic affecting development.In a statement provided to GQ, Sony PR said that "GT7 has been impacted by Covid-related production challenges and therefore will shift from 2021 to 2022. With the ongoing pandemic, it's a dynamic and changing situation and some critical aspects of game production have been slowed over the past several months. We'll share more specifics on GT7's release date when available."Sony still has some ...

It's time to understand texting.Regardless of who you are or how you use your phone, chances are you spend some of your time texting friends and family. You may not venture into debates of Telegram vs. Signal vs. WhatsApp, but you have your default texting app and rely on it to keep you connected to loved ones.Here's the thing, though. While that texting app may appear pretty basic on the surface, there's more going on behind-the-scenes than you may initially think. And by having a stronger grasp of everything going on, you can be more confident about your messaging experience and understand why things do and don't work the way you'd expect.There are three main texting protocols that exist in 2021, and today, we're talking about all of them. Let's get started!RCS The texting upgrade we've been waiting forFirst on the list, we have RCS. You may already be using RCS on your Android phone right now and have no idea, and that's part of the reason why understanding the tech is...

A ways out but with some interesting details revealed.What you need to knowSony has released the first details for the next generation of PSVR built for the PS5.This system has improvements like only needing a single cable, a wider field of view and DualSense improvements for the controller.The next PSVR won't be released in 2021.Sony today shared the first details of a next-generation PSVR system for PS5, or PSVR 2. This system won't be released in 2021, in line with comments previously made by Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Jim Ryan.The next-generation PSVR will use a single cable for connection, while the new PSVR controller will feature DualSense style improvements, as well as a "focus on great ergonomics." The new system will also have a wider field of view (FOV) which means more screen space for players to enjoy, as well other obvious improvements like better tracking and a higher resolution.While no specific titles are listed, Sony indicates teams are beginni...

Having a chat with the AC forums.The Galaxy S21 and Pixel 5 shine bright as two of the best Android phones currently on the market. Looking at the specs and features both phones have to offer at their respective price points — it's difficult to not like either one.This shared success brings up some competition, though. Given that the S21 and Pixel 5 are competing at similar price tags and both bring different things to the table, which is ultimately the better buy? A few of our AC forum members recently got to talking about this, saying: eric002 02-18-2021 11:57 AM “ Hey dude, Excellent find on that article! After all, ALL of his reasons for Pixel 5 over S21 is why you guy a Google Pixel phone at the end of the day vs a well-marketed Samsung Galaxy phone. S/W optimization, no bloat-ware etc. Practical & realistic s/w features that people will actually want to use! Reply ...

The best Note 20 cases can be found in all different sizes, colors, and shades, but the materials are what truly separate the class acts from the imitators. Plastic feels cheap, metal inhibits wireless charging, and wood can feel lovely but is inflexible. Leather, on the other hand, is luxurious in the hand, easy to work with, and it keeps your phone looking every bit as premium as its price tag. These are the best leather Galaxy Note 20 Ultra cases on the market today.First-party perfectionSamsung Leather CoverStaff PickSamsung's leather cases have been the ones to beat for years now. Perfectly matched to each of the Note 20 Ultra's colorways, this svelte cover is perfectly sculpted to every curve of the phone.From $37 at Amazon $40 at Best BuyFull grain feelSnakehive Vintage WalletI just absolutely adore the suede-like feel of a full-grain leather like that used on the Snakehive Vintage Wallet case. Even better, it's available in a half dozen colors, including a...

The software experience was great at launch, but every update since seems to bring a new bug.I have been using the Chromecast with Google TV since October. I love so much about this product: it's a good size, the new UI has grown on me after my initial misgivings, and the remote is absolutely perfect in my hand. In fact, if I hadn't run out of internal storage two weeks ago, I'd say the Chromecast with Google TV was the perfect streaming experience for me, but that'd sound like a lie to the majority of Google TV users who have seen spotty compatibility and catastrophic software bugs since the device's initial smooth sailing last fall.I'm going to preface my general lack of personally-experienced issues by saying that I've been using my Chromecast with Google TV with:a 1080p Sony TV, so no Dolby Atmos or Dolby Vision an Aukey USB-C Hub and Ethernet, so no Wi-Fi issues — I did this Day One just to cut down on buffering on VRVA 65W GaN Power Delivery Charger to properly pow...

The new brand brings popular content from Hulu and ABC to Disney+ subscribers outside the U.S.What you need to knowDisney+ has added a new general entertainment channel under the Star brand.The new Star brand is home to a large collection of movies and TV shows from Disney Television Studios, 20th Century Studios, 20th Television, ABC, Searchlight Pictures, and more.Along with the Star Brand, Disney+ has also introduced new parental controls, allowing users to limit access to content for specific profiles.Just as promised, Disney+ today added a new general entertainment channel for its subscribers under the Star brand. The dedicated Star brand page can now be accessed for free by users in Australia, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and Singapore.The new Star brand page in the Disney+ app brings a huge library of movies and TV shows from Disney Television Studios, FX Productions, 20th Century Studios, Searchlight Pictures, and more to subscribers outside the U.S. These include...

If you're reading this, you're here because you just want to save the absolute most you can on your new TV. And who can blame you? TVs are expensive, and the price can grow exponentially the more you want out of it. Well, you've come to the right place. Find the best possible TV to fit your budget, but more than that this roundup will feature TVs that still manage to pack in loads of features. A cheap TV doesn't have to mean bad TV either. You'd be surprised what all you can get even when you don't want to splurge on the more advanced sets. Did you know there are even a bunch of great Android TVs to check out?In general, the larger the TV the more expensive it gets so we've separated this roundup into different sizes to help you navigate the best cheap options around.Best Budget TV Deals Available NowBest Cheap TV Deals under 50": Prices as low as $100Best Cheap TV Deals over 50": Prices down to $488More Info: What to look forToshiba 43-inch 4K Fire TV | $16 off at Be...

You can get a lot of phone for a modest price these days, and to prove it, we've rounded up a list of the best Android phones under $300 for your consideration. Motorola has been a leading name in mid-range options for years, and that holds true with its excellent Moto G Power (2020). For an extremely competitive price, you get capable specs with a big display and simple software that anyone can figure out. Plus, it has a massive battery and convenient USB-C charging.Best Overall Android Phone under $300: Moto G Power (2020)Motorola launched a few different Moto G phones for 2020, but the one that stands out as the best pick for most people is the Moto G Power (2020. This is a phone that nails all the basics, has a very affordable price, and a cool trick up its sleeve — battery life.A 5,000 mAh battery is crammed inside of the Moto G Power, meaning you can get between two and three days of use out of the phone before needing to charge it up. In a world where a lot of $1,000...

Don't call it a smartwatch.The smartwatch market is nothing new in 2021. There are countless options to choose from at a variety of price points, and a quick look at our roundup of the best Android smartwatches easily proves this. But here's something to think about — what if you aren't ready for a full-on smartwatch?Getting notifications on your wrist and tracking daily activity are both fantastic benefits of a smart wearable. Still, for some folks, the idea of wearing a small computer every single day can be a little daunting. For them, there are watches like the Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR.The Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR has a classic wristwatch design with physical hands, combines that with a surprising amount of smart features, and tries to present all of this in a package that's stylish and easy-to-use. For the most part, Skagen pulled it off.Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR review:Price and availabilityWhat I like What I don't likeThe competitionShould you buy?At a glance...

OPPO wants to turn its VOOC flash charging tech into a global standard.What you need to knowOPPO has licensed its VOOC flash charging standard to third-party brands with The Flash Initiative.Anker, Volkswagen, and NXP Semiconductors are the first brands to leverage the fast charging tech. With the move, OPPO's charging tech will make its way to automobiles, public spaces, and even IoT devices. OPPO paved the way for fast charging with its VOOC tech. The standard made its debut back in 2014 on the Find 7, introducing 20W charging speeds. It soon became a mainstay on OPPO phones — and was licensed to OnePlus as Dash Charge and then Warp Charge and Realme.Last year saw the introduction of 65W VOOC charging tech on the Find X2 and the OnePlus 8T, and we're going to see the introduction of 125W VOOC charging this year. While OPPO phones and associated BBK entities have benefitted from the fast charging standard, it wasn't widely accessible. That's changing now, as OPPO has l...

LG had "confirmed" last month that the Rollable would go on sale later this year.Update, Feb 23 (7:00 am ET): LG 'firmly denies' reports of its rollable phone project being put on hold.What you need to knowA new report out of South Korea claims LG's Rollable phone project is being scrapped.The phone was teased by the company at its virtual CES 2021 press conference last month.Analysts believe LG is likely to either sell or shut down its smartphone business this year.At its CES 2021 press conference last month, LG teased its second Project Explorer device, called the Rollable. While the phone was expected to go on sale sometime in the second half of the year, a new report suggests the LG Rollable may never see the light of day.According to Yonhap News, LG has asked its suppliers, including display maker BOE, to put the project on hold. Industry observers say LG may scrap the rollable phone project altogether, although the company hasn't confirmed anything officially yet....

Smart home security used to be something of a luxury but HD cameras have become really affordable in recent years. If you're yet to equip your home with an extra layer of security, today's deals on Eufy security products over at Amazon. Right now, you can score EufyCam 2C Pro cameras at all-time low prices with 25% off.If you're new to Eufy's security ecosystem, your best purchase is the EufyCam 2C Pro 2-cam kit at $239.99. This kit comes with two wireless cameras and the HomeBase 2, which is the base station you need to connect everything together. Not only does it connect with these cameras, but the HomeBase 2 also works with other Eufy gear like the regular EufyCam, the EufyCam E, and Eufy entry sensors.The cameras provide live streaming and video recording in 2K resolutions. You'll be able to fully see what's going on in or around your home. They also have detailed night vision thanks to an infrared setting, but you can also use the built-in spotlight to illuminate the area....

All the best movies streaming on HBO Max todayHBO Max launched in 2020 as the digital hub for all of HBO's exclusive content. It features a rotating lineup of hundreds of television series and movies from the likes of Warner Bros., DC, Studio Ghibli, and more. HBO Max will also launch brand new films from WarnerMedia in 2021 without waiting for them to play in theaters first. Here are the best movies on HBO Max right now, from new drama and comedy films to the best in action franchises and classic films.The best movies on HBO MaxNew ReleasesBest action filmsBest of the classicsMovies and moreHBO Max$15 at HBO MaxFind new releases and old favorites on HBO MaxHBO Max provides streamers with access to film and television content from HBO, WarnerMedia, and DC, among other studios. Subscribe now to check out new blockbusters or your longtime faves.New ReleasesWarnerMedia announced at the end of 2020 that it would be releasing its entire slate of blockbust...