Latest from Android Central

If you thought the first and second-generation of the 10-inch Echo Show was a tad too big, you're in for a treat. Amazon makes its smart screen in two more manageable sizes — a 5-inch and an 8-inch model. Let's look at the Echo Show 8 vs. 5 to see which one you should get.Echo Show 8Goldilocks zone$100 at AmazonProsGreat compromise sizePhysical cover/off switch for microphones and cameraSimilar specs to more expensive Echo Show (2nd Gen)ConsNo Dolby processingNeed a stand to adjust viewing anglesThe Echo Show 8 has taken pretty much all that was good from the Echo Show (2nd Gen) and the Echo Show 5, and fit them into a perfectly-sized smart screen speaker. On-device privacy controls, a better screen resolution than the smaller Show 5, and better speakers make this a great buy.Echo Show 5Bedside buddy$70 at AmazonProsCompact design to fit anywherePhysical cover/off switch for microphones and cameraBetter speakers than Echo Dot or Echo Sp...

Bought in bulkMint MobileFrom $15/month at Mint MobileProsUnlimited talk and text on all plansT-Mobile LTE speedsUpgrade plan at any timeData as a hotspotConsMust buy in bulkNo multi-line savingsMint Mobile is known for providing great value if you are willing to buy three or more months of service at a time. All plans come with data access, unlimited talk and text, and the ability to use your data as a hotspot. Mint Mobile is a great fit for most smartphone users.Great flexibilityConsumer CellularFrom $15/month at Consumer CellularProsFlexible data optionsShare the plan with two linesAARP discountsRobust AT&T networkConsHotspot not officially supportedMore limited phone selectionsConsumer Cellular lets you tailor a plan to your personal usage without needing to buy any more than you need. With plans ranging from calling only up to 25GB of data, Consumer Cellular can be a good fit for smartphones and basic phones alike....

New Show in TownEcho Show 8$100 at AmazonProsThe Goldilocks of Echo Show devicesDisable camera and mics with one switch/coverSignificantly cheaper than larger Echo Show (2nd Gen)Uses "Certified with Humans"ConsCan't adjust viewing angles without a standNo Dolby processing built-inFast on the heels of the popular Echo Show 5, the Echo Show 8 fits right in the middle of this expanding product line. It brings a higher resolution screen than the Echo Show 5 and welcomes more media integrations like an exclusive partnership with the Food Network.Show Me MoreEcho Show (2nd Gen)$230 at AmazonProsStunning displayAvailable with a free Echo Flex and smart bulbDolby processing built-inZigbee smart hub built-inConsMost expensive Echo deviceNo physical camera coverMight be too big for someWith its softened corners and fabric covering, the Echo Show (2nd Gen) marked a significant design shift for the Echo line. Its large HD display and Alexa...

The complete pictureRing Video Doorbell 3 Plus$180 at AmazonProsPre-Roll video2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi 1080p HD videoAdvanced Motion DetectionConsNo Google Assistant integrationA bit priceyThe Ring is bringing you some new features with its Video Doorbell 3 Plus. The addition of Pre-Roll video gives you four seconds of video before the detect event. This is very helpful in getting a better idea of what happened leading up to the notification from your doorbell.A solid upgradeRing Video Doorbell 3$150 at AmazonPros2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi 1080p HD videoAdvanced Motion DetectionLess expensiveConsNo Pre-Roll videoNo Google Assistant integrationThe Ring Video Doorbell 3 carries all of the same upgrades as the Plus version, aside from the higher price tag and the Pre-Roll. The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a quality upgrade over Ring Video Doorbell 2 due to the addition of the 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi and Advanced Motion Detection.The Ring V...

Single-line, multi-monthMint MobileFrom $15/month at Mint MobileProsUnlimited talk and text on all plansT-Mobile network with 5G supportUpgrade plan at any timeHotspot on all plansInternational calling and textingConsMust buy in bulkNo multi-line perksMint Mobile offers a great value to people that are willing to buy mobile phone service in bulk. With three data tiers in 3GB, 8GB, or 12GB packages, Mint Mobile has a plan that should work for the majority of smartphone users powered by the T-Mobile network with LTE and 5G at no extra cost.Two big networksUS MobileFrom $3.50/month at US MobileProsT-Mobile or Verizon LTESave with a custom planPerks for two or more unlimited lines10GB international data with the unlimited planConsCurrent 5G coverage is weakPhone selection is weakNo international callingAny user can put together a plan that works for them on US Mobile without giving up quality or speed thanks to a choice between th...

Anker's Bolder LC40 rechargeable battery LED flashlight is down to $18.99 on Amazon if you clip the $4 off on-page coupon. That's a great low price and one of the lowest ones we've seen in a while. It's only $6 more than the LC30 version.The LC40 is a wonderfully compact little flashlight with a powerful light and a great long-lasting battery. The light is a 400-lumen Cree LED. It has a lifespan of 50,000 hours. That's such a long time you'll be using this flashlight for years before you notice any diminishing in the bulb. And it's so cheap you can just buy another one. You'll be able to light up any dark space with however much light you need, and the flashlight has five lighting modes (high, medium , low, strobe, and SOS).The long-lasting battery works for up to continuous 20 hours in medium-beam mode. Obviously if you bump it up to high you're going to lose a few hours off that, but that shouldn't be too much of a problem if you find what you're looking for that much faster. T...

Hello, againNest Hello$230 at Best BuyProsBetter HDR video cameraPerson recognitionOfficial IPX4 weather resistancePre-recorded responsesPackage delivery alertsConsDoesn't work with Amazon AlexaNest's subscription service is more expensiveEven though this device is nearly two years old at this point, we still think it's one of the best all-around video doorbells. Not only does it integrate seamlessly with Google Assistant, but it also has a ton of cool features like person identification and package delivery alerts.Third time charmRing Video Doorbell 3$150 at AmazonProsWorks on both 2.4GHz and 5Ghz Wi-Fi bandsAdvanced Motion DetectionAudio and video privacy zonesWired and battery power optionsCustomizable faceplatesConsDoesn't work with Google AssistantNo pre-roll video or other advanced features as in the Plus versionThe Ring Video Doorbell 3 has a series of valuable, incremental improvements over the second generation, such ...

Echo Dot with ClockIt's about time$60 at AmazonProsSubtle LED clock displaySnooze functionality at a tapRetains all of what's good about the Echo Dot (3rd Gen)ConsOnly currently available in one colorDisplay can't show notificationsAmazon knows what time it is! It took our favorite little smart speaker and incorporated an LED display to show the time, your timers, and the temperature.Echo Dot (3rd Gen)Fan favorite$50 at AmazonProsThe cheapest Echo speaker you can getGreat sound for a small speakerNow available in a fun Plum colorConsNo visual displayPrevious Dots were more customizableThe Echo Dot (3rd Gen) is one of the best-selling smart speakers available, and for good reason. It's affordable, has good sound quality for its size, and is relatively unobtrusive.In late 2019 Amazon added several new Echo devices to its smart home lineup, including an updated version of its extremely popular Echo Dot, which features an LED di...

The Samsung Evo Select 256GB microSDXC storage card is down to $29.99 on Amazon. This price matches the lowest we've ever seen, and it's only the second time we've ever seen it drop this low. The card normally sells for $35 or more and even jumped as high as $50 in July.The 128GB card is also down to a low price at $18.99. This one has been going for that price for a couple weeks now, but it could jump up when the deal above expires.Samsung's EVO Select microSD cards are extremely popular and for good reason. They are some of the fastest and most reliable microSD cards out there. This Class 10 UHS 3 card has read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of up to 60MB/s. It works great for recording video (even 4K), as well as playing mobile games, taking pictures, and more. The card comes with a full-sized SD card adapter as well so you can put it into devices that accept SD cards instead of microSD cards.Remember these high-capacity cards are labeled microSDXC. Not all devices...

We've used some of the best DIY home security systems you can buy. And we'll help you make the right choice between these two powerhouses.Ring Alarm (2nd Gen)Modular security$160 at AmazonProsCheaper than the Nest systemIncludes all the pieces you need to get goingNo long-term commitments or cancellation feesWith Ring Protect Plus plan, you can get 24/7 monitoringConsIncludes single-purpose sensors compared to the Nest systemDoesn't play well with Google AssistantIf you have a smaller home — or just don't want to spend too much on your first security system — the Ring Alarm system may be for you. It is scaleable, connects with all the pieces you need to get started, and works wonderfully with Amazon's Alexa smart assistant, Echo speakers, and Fire TV and tablet devices.Nest SecureInnovative integration$400 at Best BuyProsIntegrates smoothly with other Nest and Google productsIncludes more versatile sensors in the boxIncluded Nest Tags are ...

Echo Dot (3rd Gen)Best bang for the buck$50 at AmazonProsCheapest Echo Inconspicuous sizeFully-functional Alexa deviceConsWhile improved, sound quality not as good as larger versionsNot as customizable as previous versionsThe Echo Dot (3rd Gen) is the Echo to get for most people. Whether you're just starting with your smart home or you are expanding your current setup, these affordable speakers can do pretty much anything.Echo (3rd Gen)Better sounding speaker$100 at AmazonProsBetter sounding than the smaller Echo DotImproved styling from previous generationsGreat value for excellent smart speakerConsMore expensive than the Echo DotNo built-in smart hubThe Echo (3rd Gen) is also a great device at a great price. You get an outstanding speaker in one of several different colors with room-filling sound.Amazon offers an abundance of Alexa-enabled speakers, and the Echo Dot and "regular" Echo are among its most popular. The Echo D...

Amazon Echo and Google Home/Nest smart speakers have crossed over from the early adopter phase to each finding a place within the mainstream culture. Both are functional, but if you're like me, you still might not be convinced which company's voice assistant is right for you. That's why I've got both Alexa and Google Assistant-compatible speakers set up in my home. If you find yourself in the same boat, it may be essential to buy smart home accessories that are compatible with both AI assistants, and these smart plugs are a great place to start.AI-powered energy monitoringCurrant Wifi Smart OutletStaff pickCurrant's WiFi Smart Outlet comes with two individually controllable outlets, but the most crucial part is the ability to build a Bluetooth mesh network of smart plugs. Currant's two-outlet smart plug offers the ability to see detailed breakdowns of your energy usage by the hour, day, month, or year. Additionally, Currant uses artificial intelligence to identify energy us...

Heating and cooling are the single biggest factors of your monthly energy bill, so it makes sense for most people to consider picking up a smart thermostat that better manages the temperature of your home. The Nest Learning Thermostat is the best overall option, offering a sleek and modern design that fits into any home and automated schedule creation based on your habits.Best Overall — Nest Learning ThermostatLike most smart thermostats, Nest's offering can be controlled by your phone or through a voice assistant like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa (though notably, the Learning Thermostat isn't compatible with Apple's HomeKit service). You can set the temperature remotely, or simply rotate the stainless steel dial around the frosted glass display. The Nest Learning Thermostat can also detect when you've left the house to automatically shut down heating and cooling, and resumes things when you return.The Nest's defining feature, though, is its ability to learn your prefer...

Sit down and get comfy — we've got a lot to talk about.Google's Pixel lineup has changed and evolved a lot since its inception in 2016, with last year giving us the Pixel 4 series. In some ways, the Pixel 4 and 4 XL stood out as two of the most interesting Pixels ever — introducing 90Hz displays, dual cameras, and more. As we all know by now, however, battery life troubles held the phones back from greatness.It's now 2020, and in the coming weeks, we're expecting the Pixel 5 to arrive. In preparation of its arrival, here's a look back at the Pixel 4, where it currently stands, and any other information you may be after.Ready to learn more? Here's everything you need to know!Jump to:The Pixel 4 has been discontinuedCheck out our full review Get familiar with the specsPitting the Pixel 4 against the competitionIs the Pixel 5 coming soon?Make sure to get some accessoriesPixel 4a is the Pixel to get right nowPixel perfectGoogle Pixel 4a$350 at Amazon...

Spill some blood with the best Android shooters currently on the market.Professional and/or competitive shooter games are fast becoming a sustainable industry trend for mobile gaming. Both game development and smartphone hardware reaching the point where phones can absolutely deliver top-notch gaming experiences — even for first-person shooters.This still probably sounds like crazy talk to traditional PC gamers but the fact is mobile shooters have cut out a nice niche within the pro-gaming community — franchises such as PUBG Mobile and Guns of Boom have competitive esports leagues that can be advantageous to people who love to stream or try playing for cash in a tournament. Just like other online games for console or PC, mobile games reward teams who can practice and train together — or you can just jump into the game and have some fun on your phone.And if you're looking for something a bit less violent, check out our favorite Android games of 2020!The gamesCall of...

Get your game on — even in the offseason — with the best sports games available for Android.After a few golden years of fantastic entries, it seems like most mobile sports games have succumbed to the freemium model. There are far too few quality titles available that just let you jump into the game without having to deal with player cards, pointless upgrades, or waiting for stamina meters to refill. Nearly all the top mobile sports game franchises have switched over to a team-building system that requires you to unlock (or buy) card packs to upgrade your team.However, there are still great games to be played. We've tried to cover the five major North American sports here with some extras thrown in for fun. Be sure to note which games are more sim-based for the hardcore sports fan and which ones offer a more arcade-like option for casual players.Want something a bit less sporty? We have a list of the best Android games overall, too!The gamesNBA 2K20NBA JamMLB 9 Inni...

The Amazon Echo is great for controlling your smart home and playing music, but it can also be used for fun, enhancing games, powering some of the best Alexa-enabled toys you've ever seen. Whether you're enjoying a night in or playing outside with your friends, these are some of the best Alexa-compatible toys you can buy.Smart board gameEscape Room in a BoxStaff pickThe next time you have an hour to spare, Escape Room in a Box is a cooperative board game for up to eight players. You need to solve puzzles and find hidden clues to survive. It connects with Alexa to give hints and play accommodating music, adding a layer of immersion to the game.$30 at Amazon$44 at WalmartTrivia board gameWhen in RomeWhen in Rome is a travel-oriented trivia board game that tests your knowledge of 20 cities around the world. Just like Escape Room in a Box, When in Rome ties into Alexa to add music, sound effects, and even character voices. If you have an Amazon-powered speaker like ...

Why buy an outdated charging accessory these days when wireless chargers are nearly just as affordable? Take this Choetech Wireless Charging bundle for instance. It includes both a wireless charging stand and a wireless charging pad, and while it normally sells for $23, right now you can snatch the pair for just $14.54 when you clip the coupon on Amazon's product page. That beats out any deal that's reached the set without a coupon before, and it likely won't last very long either.If you'd rather have two wireless charging stands instead, you can score this two-pack of wireless charging stands on sale for $23.99 by clipping the on-page coupon at Amazon.With today's deal, you'll be scoring two wireless chargers for about $7 apiece. They're pretty well reviewed, too, with over 2,300 customer reviews at Amazon resulting in a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. The wireless charging stand is perfect to place on a desk or wherever you might want to keep using your phone while it's powering ...

You can get a lot of phone for a modest price these days. Motorola has been a leading name in mid-range options for years, and that holds true with its excellent Moto G Power. 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: Moto G PowerMotorola 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. 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 flagships need to be put on the charger every night, that's darn impressive. In addition to the long endurance, the Moto G Power also shines with i...

Max data, domesticallyVisibleFrom $40/month at VisibleProsBigger networkUnlimited dataUnlimited hotspot (5Mbps)Simple robust planConsNo Canada or Mexico optionNo international roamingNo flexibility on plan choiceVisible offers a simple plan with unlimited talk, text, and data in the U.S. With Verizon's robust network providing the backbone, you'll be able to confidently stay connected even on the move. However, you might have some issues internationally.Max data, even in MexicoBoost MobileFrom $10/month at Boost MobileProsMexico serviceSave with family plansImproved T-Mobile network for new phones5G access with T-MobileConsSmaller hotspotConfusing coverage optionsMaking use of Sprint's or T-Mobile's networks, Boost mobile offers a lot of data at a great price. If you're using the T-Mobile network, you even get 5G access. Boost is also a much stronger option for customers that may want to call or travel to Mexico.Visible o...

If you want to unlock all the extras for heroes added later, you'll need to pay.What you need to knowMarvel's Avengers is launching with six heroes.Post-launch heroes, such as Hawkeye, will be free.Each post-launch hero will have a $10 battle pass to unlock premium tier items.Marvel's Avengers is set to release on September 4, 2020.Marvel's Avengers is nearly here and shortly ahead of launch, Crystal Dynamics has explained how the microtransactions and cosmetic purchases will work in a blog post. Each hero has a Battle Pass called a Hero Challenge Card. Each Hero Challenge Card has 40 free tiers of things to unlock and premium paid tiers. Different tiers offer rewards including (but not limited to) outfits, emotes, nameplates and more.The premium tiers for the six launch heroes are being unlocked, so you won't have to pay to access the premium tiers for Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Black Widow or Kamala Khan. For others, such as Hawkeye or Spider-Man (on PlayStation ...

Samsung dropped some of its cloud features and decided to rely on OneDrive instead.What you need to knowSamsung is ending support for Gallery Sync and Drive storage.Data from these sources can be migrated to OneDrive or downloaded for some time.The termination of the features will occur over a phased rollout with dates varying based on your region.Samsung's Gallery Sync and Drive storage for My Files will no longer be supported by Samsung Cloud (via Neowin). Anyone with a premium storage subscription plan will have it canceled beginning April 1, 2021, and might receive a refund. Samsung isn't leaving its customers without cloud storage options, however, as the same features will soon be supported by Microsoft OneDrive rather than Samsung Cloud.The transition from Samsung Cloud to OneDrive will happen gradually. Samsung breaks down the shutdown process on a support page. The shutdown process will occur in two groups, separated depending on the country that you first signed...

OnePlus needs to balance its premium offerings with more affordable options, and is now turning to the entry-level segment.OnePlus is working on an entry-level phone codenamed Clover that will make its debut later in the year. The phone will launch in the U.S. and other global markets for around $200, and comes with a 3.5mm jack, 720p display, 4GB of RAM with 64GB of storage, and a massive battery.An entry-level phone goes against OnePlus' ethos of delivering the best possible performance on all of its phones. In fact, during the launch of the Nord, OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei said that the reason the company went with a Snapdragon 765G chipset instead of the Snapdragon 800 series was because the performance with the 765G is on par with flagships.Well, that's not the case with the Snapdragon 460, the chipset that's powering the Clover. The chipset is fine in the context of entry-level chipsets — it has four Cortex A73 cores and four A53 cores — but it doesn't come anywhere...

Ditch the heavy books and turn your phone into your libraryIf you've been considering the jump from physical books to e-books, you'll need to figure out the best e-book app for the job. Books can be heavy, expensive, and take up valuable space in a cramped apartment, so making the transition is worth it. Thankfully you've got a few options, depending on where you want to get your books, and how you want them to look on the screen.Take a peek at our picks for the best e-book apps for Android!The top 3 apps1. Amazon Kindle2. Moon+ Reader3. Libby, by OverDriveMore optionsGoogle Play BooksKoboAldikoWattpadHoopla DigitalGoodreadsWhat are the best e-book apps for Android?While there are many apps on the Play Store that make it easier than ever to find and read new e-books, there's only one that stands largely above the rest. The Amazon Kindle app provides a vast library of e-books and audiobooks, with more choices than you could ever imagine.What if you hav...

OnePlus is turning its attention to the entry-level segment with 'Clover.'OnePlus is all set to release its first entry-level phone, codenamed Clover. The phone is a stark departure for the company, which has thus far focused on offering devices with class-leading performance.The device codenamed Clover is powered by a Snapdragon 460 and comes with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. It has a MicroSD slot, 3.5mm jack, and a large 6.52-inch HD+ LCD screen. You also get a traditional fingerprint sensor at the back, and a 6000mAh battery with 18W fast charging. On the camera side of things, there's a 13MP main camera with two 2MP auxiliary lenses.Here's the full list of specs on offer with OnePlus' first entry-level phone:OnePlus Clover specs Category OnePlus Clover Software Android 10OxygenOS 10 Display 6.52-inch HD+ IPS LCD (1560 x 720) Chipset Snapdragon 4604 x 1.8GHz Cortex A734 x 1.8GHz Cortex A53Adreno 61011nm Memory 4GB Storage 64GB ...

Blizzard is bringing the Diablo series to your mobile phone, and we cannot wait.While Blizzard announced Diablo IV at Blizzcon this year, it also dropped a lot of information about Diablo Immortal. Immortal is set to combine the feel of a Diablo game with the added benefit of an MMO experience — all on mobile. Not only will the game be a fully-fledged Diablo game, but there will also be a ton of extras. It'll be also be the first full Diablo game designed from the ground up to be played on a mobile device.Here is everything we know about the game so far.Jump to:What is Diablo?What type of game is it?What classes are there?Is it free-to-play?What does the UI look like?What's gameplay like?Are there microtransactions?What's the control system like?When does it release?Hell unleashedDiablo ImmortalSee at Google PlayDiablo Immortal is a fully realized entry to the Diablo series. With the added benefit of an MMO experience, Immortal looks set to be amaz...

Brave the seas by following these tips.As with most survival games, Windbound makes it difficult to stay alive. Kara can die of hunger, she might get injured by a wild animal, her boat can wreck on some rocks leaving her to drown, or she might not have the necessary tools needed to sail the seas.If you're having any difficulty braving the randomly generated islands, we've got your back. Follow these tips and tricks to make it through the game's five levels.Windbound survival tips and tricksGather, gather, gatherDon't eat raw meatUse a Cooking RackBuild a boat and mast right awayYour boat keeps you safe from land animalsCraft a bag and potLook for food on every islandHold that bow tautCoral reefs are dangerousScout out your next destinationLocate your lost boatCheck out those tiny islandsBreath of the seaWindbound$30 at PlayStation StoreHunt, gather, sailKara has been separated from her tribe and must learn to hunt, craft, and sail the seas. Will y...

Use the service on any of these devices.NVIDIA's GeForce Now is now out of beta, and players have already begun using it more widely. However, some players might be confused as to whether or not they're able to use the service. Perhaps the best thing about GeForce Now is just how easy it is to use, and how you don't necessarily need to have a high-end device in order to take advance of it.GeForce Now isn't limited to one type of device, so there's no real list of exact devices that will and won't work. However, NVIDIA has listed its series of requirements for the service on various devices, including what it will take for Mac, PC, and Android devices to be compatible with the service. Check out the list of GeForce Now compatible devices, and their requirements, below:PC Requirements for GeForce NowA 64-bit version of Windows 7, or newer (GeForce Now does not support 32-bit versions of Windows) Dual-core x86-64 CPU with 2.0GHz or faster4GB of system memoryGPU that at least...

Premium PixelGoogle Pixel 4From $550 at AmazonProsFluid 90Hz displayTwo rear camerasMotion Sense gesturesSpeedy face unlockNewer processor + more RAMConsSmaller batteryExpensiveThe Pixel 4 is Google's latest flagship smartphone offering, and while it is more expensive than the 3a, you're getting a lot for your money. The 90Hz display is a joy to have, the addition of a telephoto camera opens up new shooting possibilities, and the upgraded performance is a great bonus for power-users.Best for lessGoogle Pixel 3a$400 at AmazonProsOLED screen looks greatExcellent cameraFast and reliable fingerprint sensor3.5mm headphone jackCompetitive priceConsDoesn't have wireless chargingOnly 4GB of RAMThe Pixel 3a is a worthy alternative to the Pixel 4. Yes, it has a less impressive processor, display, and only one rear camera, but the day-to-day experience of using the phone is sublime. Not only is it considerably more affordable, but the 3a...

When it's time to switch from your older Android phone to a new one, you'll want to make sure all of your data makes it way across safely. Thankfully, Google makes it extremely convenient to migrate your texts, call logs, contacts, music, and photos over to your new phone seamlessly.How to back up data on your old Android phoneYou'll need to make sure that all the relevant data on your old phone is backed up to the cloud before you make the switch to your new phone. Google automatically backs up contacts, call logs, texts, and settings — including Do Not Disturb details — to Drive, so you'll be able to restore all that data to your new phone just by logging in with your Google account during initial configuration.Best of all, the data that's automatically backed up by Google doesn't count toward your storage quota, so you don't have to worry about running out of storage. The feature backs up call history, app data, contacts, device and home screen settings, and text message...

Ring Video Doorbell 3Versatile viewer$200 at Amazon$200 at Best Buy$200 at RingProsIntegrates with Alexa and Amazon devicesCan be used wired or battery-poweredNear Zone helps reduce erroneous motion detectionCustomizable motion zones and privacy filtersDual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi supportConsDoesn't work well with Google AssistantSubscription plan required to access any recordingsNo local storageDoesn't record all the timePrivacy scandals tarnished reputationThe Video Doorbell 3 is Ring's latest video doorbell. Its integration with Amazon devices and services is top-notch, and its hardware and apps are great as well. Ring has been repairing its relationship with users after several privacy scandals, but the memory of these might still be a deterrent.August View Doorbell CameraSimplicity is key$229 at AugustProsBattery pack easy to swapNo wiring necessaryFree video cloud storage for 24-hoursDual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi support...

Boost Mobile offers a ton of data at a great price.Boost Mobile is a great deal for people that use a lot of data. It offers great rates on data plans, including a large amount of hotspot data, Boost Mobile has earned a reputation as a great, low-cost, MVNO. Boost Mobile is owned by DISH and runs on both the Sprint's LTE network and the new T-Mobile network. Bringing multiple lines can bring down the cost making Boost a great deal for your family. You can even bring in an unlocked phone or buy one from Boost to get connected. Here's everything you need to know if Boost Mobile sounds like a good fit for you.Big on dataBoost MobileFrom $10/mo. at Boost MobileBig on dataBoost Mobile plans have a ton of data at competitive prices for people looking to save and even comes with hotspot on every plan.Jump to:Expanding the networkBoost's plansInternationalThe phonesWhy prepaid?Boost Mobile Buyer's Guide Expanding the networkSprint's network doesn't have th...

With everything you can do on a tablet, sometimes you might never want to put it down. Luckily, this Gooseneck Tablet Stand from EasyAcc can do the job for you. Today it's on sale at Amazon for just $12.99, taking 50% off its current price there. Simply use code 3IODJ36O during checkout to score the savings. It's recently sold for $26 and it rarely drops far below $20.Available in white only, this stand is made of magnalium alloy for a durable and sturdy, yet flexible arm that can twist into various viewing positions. It's suitable for devices from 4 to 10.6 inches wide, so you can fit pretty much any modern smartphone within its grasp from smaller devices like an iPhone SE to something super large like the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus. In fact, you can even use this mount to hold your Nintendo Switch console while you game using its Joy-Cons or hold your iPad, Kindle, or other tablet hands-free.You can use tablet mounts like these almost anywhere thanks to their easy-to-install c...

Blast across worlds at high resolutions or with a smooth framerate.What you need to knowRatchet and Clank: Rift Apart is an upcoming PS5 title being developed by Insomniac Games.In an interview with Famitsu, Insomniac revealed there will be two modes for players to choose from.One is a 60FPS mode, while the other is 4K at 30FPS.Insomniac Games has been busy in the leadup to the launch of the PS5, revealing Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart and Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales.According to a new interview at Famitsu (and shortly afterward confirmed by Insomniac on Twitter), Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart features two different modes that players can choose from. One mode is 4K resolution at 30FPS, while the second mode is 60FPS at a lower resolution.Providing options like this makes sense and it lines up with what other PS5 titles are reportedly offering, with Insomniac previously confirming that Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales will have a 4K 60FPS performance mode. Mean...

If your Wi-Fi at home is busted or you want to make a change, which should you buy?Mesh Wi-Fi networks are the new thing, and that's great because mesh networks can put fast Wi-Fi where you need it without getting complicated. There are some great products available that are easy to set up and keep running, including Nest Wifi and an Eero system. Setting up your own mesh Wi-Fi network is simple, thanks to consumer gear that does the hard work for you.However, "regular" Wi-Fi routers and access points are getting better, too. Faster speeds and more extended range are more than buzzwords when it comes to buying the latest Wi-Fi router, and you'll often find advanced tools that a simple mesh system can't offer.That leads to the obvious question — should anyone switch to a mesh-based Wi-Fi network in their house? Like most things, the answer isn't a simple yes or no. There are a couple of things you should consider before you dust off your credit card.More: Google Wifi vs. Orbi...

Which Instant Pot size makes the most sense for you?One of the most common questions people have when trying to pick the right Instant Pot to buy is figuring out the right size. Most Instant Pot models come in three sizes — 3-quart, 6-quart, and 8-quart — but those numbers don't exactly give you any indication as to which is best suited for you based on how you cook, how big your family is, and what you cook.While there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, here's a guide to help you make the right decision when weighing the most important factors.When to buy a 3-quart Instant PotThe 3-quart Instant Pot is really small, so there are two main reasons you might buy one. The first is if you're single, living alone, or don't entertain often. In this sense, you probably won't need more than a 3-quart. If you're making for only yourself, a 3-quart might suffice.The second situation that might warrant a 3-quart Instant Pot is if you have very limited counter space,...

Here's what OnePlus is working on for the second half of 2020.Despite ongoing world events, 2020 has still been a pretty great year for Android phones — and it's only going to get even better. Looking ahead towards the coming months, one of the releases we're most excited about is the OnePlus 8T.If you've been following OnePlus for a while, you know that it doesn't settle with just one major release per year. Instead, we're often treated to two — one in the first half of the year and another during the second half. We got the OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro back in April, and likely around September/October, we should see their successors in the form of the OnePlus 8T and 8T Pro.There's still a lot we don't know about the phones, but if you're looking for all of the latest available info, you've come to the right place. Without further ado, let's talk all things OnePlus 8T!Never settleOnePlus 8$799 at AmazonSo good you don't have to wait for the 8TThere's no doubt that ...

Having a chat with the AC forums.There's a lot you can do with the Galaxy Note 20, especially thanks to the One UI 2.5 software that's available on the phone. One UI 2.5 looks and feels a lot like past iterations of the software, with one of the biggest differences being that you can now use gesture navigation with third-party launchers.That's kind of a big deal, as third-party launchers often offer more features and settings to play around with compared to the stock one that Samsung uses for One UI. Looking through the AC forums, a lot of our members have already jumped aboard the third-party bandwagon. sweetypie31 08-27-2020 05:19 AM “ Nova. I tried to use One UI, but that lasted about 2.5 seconds before I went back to Nova. No matter how much better One UI is than TouchWiz, it's the little things that drive me back to Nova. Lol Reply mu...

Heads up! We share savvy shopping and personal finance tips to put extra cash in your wallet. Android Central may receive a commission from The Points Guy Affiliate Network. Please note that the offers mentioned below are subject to change at any time and some may no longer be available.Over the past several months, we've seen a number of positive changes from credit card issuers to retain existing customers in light of the ongoing pandemic. From new category bonuses to reduced annual fees to new credits, it's easy to lose track of the developments. Thankfully, we've created a continuously-updated guide to the latest card benefit changes.To that end, we've also been keeping tabs with readers in the TPG Lounge and TPG Women Facebook groups about which limited-time benefits and bonuses have been the most helpful. In fact, this is a follow-up from a check-in we had with our community in the spring, when many readers accurately predicted some of the latest announcements.Without furth...

Sony WH-1000XM4New kid on the block$350 at AmazonProsIndustry-leading noise cancelationBuilt-in sensor for wearing detectionConnect two devices at the same timeLong-lasting batteryFoldable designConsCannot listen and charge at the same timeCan't replace ear pads yourselfExpensiveThe Sony WH-1000XM4 provides the best active noise cancelation (ANC) on the market, and have been improved in all the right areas from its predecessor. Despite the inability to replace the ear pads along not being able to listen and charge at the same time, these are the best headphones on the market right now.Bose NC 700A close second$279 at AmazonProsCustomizable Noise CancelationUSB-C chargingReplaceable ear pads Can listen and charge at the same timeMore affordableConsNon-foldable designShorter battery lifeThe Bose NC 700 provide quite a few improvements over its predecessor, including improved noise cancellation and the addition of USB-C charging...

Looking to save even more money on Mint Mobile? Here are the current deals and promo codes to help!Finding a Mint Mobile deal or Mint Mobile coupon has never really been a hard task. The MVNO carrier loves to have some fun with promotions, and we like to keep track of them. There are quite a few options when it comes to carriers for your smartphone, and odds are you're shopping around for the best deal. Postpaid plans are a good option for some, but prepaid plans get you the lowest price, as long as you're willing to put your money down first.Mint Mobile is an alternative carrier that uses T-Mobile's 4G LTE network to bring you great coverage at an even more affordable price. In the past, going prepaid with an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) often meant that you sacrificed a lot when it came to your plan, but that isn't the case anymore. With Mint Mobile you can pick data allotments of 2GB, 5GB, or even 10GB, depending on your usage habits, and all of the plans come with u...

Samsung's latest foldable packs a punch.Looking back at smartphones of the past decade, it's safe to say that the Galaxy Fold stands out as one of the most impressive and important. It was the first folding phone to launch in the United States, and now, Samsung is making it even better with the Galaxy Z Fold 2.The Galaxy Z Fold 2 has the same idea and design of the Fold, but it improves just about every aspect of it. There's a new processor, more premium design, and vastly upgraded displays. Simply put, the Fold 2 has a lot going for it.Whether you're looking for full specs, pricing info, or details on when you can buy it, here's everything you need to know about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2!Fold againSamsung Galaxy Z Fold 2See at SamsungThe iconic foldable returnsSamsung is revolutionizing the folding space yet again with the Galaxy Z Fold 2. It retains the form factor of the original Fold, but comes with a few key upgrades. The cover display is much larger, the d...

Qualcomm has also shown interest in selling chips to Huawei.What you need to knowMediaTek has applied to the Trump administration for permission to supply chips to Huawei.The chip maker will not be able to ship to Huawei after September 15 without a license. TSMC has stopped taking orders for new chips from Huawei and will no longer be shipping to the company after September 15. Taiwanese chip maker MediaTek today announced that it has applied to the Trump administration for a special license to continue supplying chips to Huawei after the new U.S. restrictions come into effect on September 15 (via Reuters).The U.S. tightened restrictions on Huawei last month after it introduced a new rule change that requires foreign chip manufacturers using American chipmaking equipment to apply for a special license before shipping to Huawei. Analysts believe that MediaTek could be "among the worst affected" following the latest restrictions.In a statement released earlier today, the...

Synology DiskStation DS220+Perfect home NAS$300 at AmazonProsPowerful internal hardwareVersatile software featuresHolds a total of 32TB of storageConsNo eSATA port for connecting expansion drivesNo M.2 slots for SSD cachingThe DiskStation DS220+ is the ideal choice if you're in the market for a new NAS enclosure in 2020. It works great as a Plex media server, the value is strong for the hardware on offer, and you'll get the best software in this category. If you're just starting out or upgrading from the DS218+ or an earlier model, the DS220+ is the obvious choice.Synology DiskStation DS420+Four-Bay Goodness$500 at AmazonProsHolds 64TB of storage with four drive baysM.2 slots for SSD cachingConsLimited memoryNo eSATA portNot great at transcoding filesBetter options at similar price pointThe DiskStation DS420+ takes the same foundation as the DS220+ and adds two extra drive bays and M.2 slots for SSD caching. The NAS has the same intern...

Business in the front.Recently word leaked that ZTE was planning to unveil an all-new update to its Axon line of smartphones that had a full-screen display with minimal or no bezels. Admittedly those of us in the West haven't heard much from ZTE in recent years; however, the company has been known to push the envelope a bit with some of its designs. It was one of the first to have a "folding phone," and it's now it is emerging as the first OEM to offer an under-display camera in a commercially available phone.Full-screen fantasies becoming a realityPictured: OnePlus 7 Pro full screenThe bezel-less, full-screen life has been a dream of enthusiasts since smartphones first burst on the scene, but it hasn't truly been possible yet, not without some compromises or leaving out some key features. The first attempts to push those bezels back were the notches that we saw starting with phones like the Essential Phone and the iPhone X, all the way back in 2017 (yes, I said all the way b...

Making sure your next outdoor excursion has the right soundtrack becomes a lot easier with the Anker Soundcore Pro+ Bluetooth Speaker. This powerful 25W speaker will put your phone's built-in speaker to shame and is even capable of keeping your device powered up! Today it's on sale for only $54.99 at Amazon while supplies last, which brings this Bluetooth speaker down to its lowest price in months. It's normally sold for $90 otherwise.This compact Bluetooth speaker features four full-range drivers to deliver 25W of sound. It comes equipped with patented Anker BassUp technology to pump up the bass at any given moment, and a professional quality DSP to produce clear highs and deep, full-bodied lows. It's even equipped with a USB port that can charge phones, tablets, and other devices.Anker's SoundCore Pro+ features a rechargeable battery that can last for up to 18 hours on a single charge. It's also water-resistant, so if you plan on bringing it around to the beach or the pool this...

It will include a 3.5mm headphone jack as well.What you need to knowComplete specs of the Sony Xperia 5 II have leaked online, alongside a few renders.The Xperia 5 II is tipped to sport a 120Hz OLED display and a Snapdragon 865 chipset.It is expected to be unveiled at Sony's virtual launch event on September 17.Earlier this week, the very first renders of Sony's Xperia 5 II surfaced online, courtesy of well-known leaker Evan Blass. Some more renders of the "compact" flagship have now appeared online, along with its key tech specs.The new leak from the folks at Android Headlines seems to confirm the Xperia 5 II will look a lot like the Sony Xperia 1 II that was launched earlier this year. The two phones are apparently quite similar in terms of specs too.As per the report, the Xperia 5 II will feature a 6.1-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 21:9 aspect ratio and a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the phone will feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 865 chipset, paired with 8GB...

The best Note Ultra 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 ever bit as premium as its price tag. These are the best leather Galaxy Note 20 Ultra cases that we've been able to find so far.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.$50 at Amazon$50 at Best Buy$50 at SamsungBlock the baddiesFYY RFID-Blocking WalletThis leather wallet has RFID-blocking mesh built into the folio, protecting your credit cards from skimmers lurking in crowds. I'm also a fan of this w...

We all have our preferences when it comes to our smartphone platform of choice but Woot's huge smartphone and accessory sale has something for everyone. The one-day promotion features handsets from Samsung and Google for the Android fans as well as iPhone models from the iPhone 6 to the latest iPhone 11 Pro for Apple users.There are also accessories like earbuds, power banks, and even Apple Watch models to choose from. Most of the devices are offered refurbished in scratch and dent condition which means the devices will be fully functional, though there may be some cosmetic wear. Many of the accessories are brand new.Though several of the more unique devices like the Essential PH1 and BlackBerry Priv have already sold out, there are still a ton of popular Android phones available.The Google Pixel 3a or 3a XL would be a solid choice from $249.99. The Pixel 3a phones have a fast-charging battery that's adaptive and can help you save power over time. It will give you seven hours ...