Latest from Android Central

Commit and save.Verizon sells all kinds of phones. From top-of-the-line flagships to discounted budget devices. From iPhone to Android. From phones focused on watching media to phones focused on cameras. No matter what you're looking for, you're probably also looking to save some money. Who isn't? Verizon releases new and interesting deals all the time. The majority of these deals work in a similar fashion, too. You will get the discount on the phone through a series of promotional credits applied to your monthly bill. It may take up to two years to earn all your savings, but that would be worth it when we're talking about hundreds of dollars.Best Verizon Plan DealsWhile some people (and even other carriers) like to poke fun at Verizon for being more expensive, if you look in the right places you can actually get a plan that meets your needs without spending too much cash. The carrier does offer a variety of different options, and you'll want to do a little research to figure o...

Today only, you can get the Eufy RoboVac 11S (Slim) robot vacuum cleaner on sale for just $149.99 at Woot. Unlike a lot of Woot deals, the robot vacuum is being offered in new condition wit ha 1-year manufacturer warranty.Considering refurb versions direct from the Eufy store go for around the same amount, you're basically getting a new vacuum for the price of a refurbished one. The RoboVac 11S tends to sell as high as $220, with occasional coupons taking it lower. Today's drop to $150 is just $1 shy of the low price it set during the holiday season last year making this one of the best robot vacuum deals around.The RoboVac 11S is slimmer than previous generations and is only 2.85 inches high. It is still capable of some truly powerful suction up to 1300Pa, which means you get a lot of power in a small package. Anker's BoostIQ tech can detect when some extra suction is needed and automatically increases the power for the tough to clean spots. This saves you some battery life in t...

These twists and turns feel just right.Smartwatches are almost always forced to compromise in their design in some way. After all, it's hard to cram all of the various specs and sensors that make these tiny wrist computers so functional into something you'd actually want to wear out, and the result is usually a thick, unattractive gadget that costs as much as a nice traditional watch, with the double whammy of needing to be charged once a day.Sadly, in most cases, those hardware tradeoffs are met with equally cumbersome software in the form of Wear OS, which continues to mimic a slow-moving disaster, limited the number of compelling options on the Android side. That number dwindles even further once you decide you want some health-oriented features like heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking.But Samsung does things a little differently. The Galaxy Watch line uses the company's homegrown Tizen software, rather than Wear OS, and features hardware niceties like circular displays...

Facebook and Twitter have also stopped reviewing requests for user data from Hong Kong authorities.What you need to knowGoogle has reportedly decided to stop responding directly to data requests from Hong Kong authorities.The move comes after China's imposition of a Hong Kong national security law, which has received strong criticism from the Trump administration. Google will now direct authorities in Hong Kong to pursue data requests through a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty with the U.S.Google will no longer respond directly to data requests coming from Hong Kong authorities. Citing sources familiar with the matter, the Washington Post has claimed the search giant has notified Hong Kong police that it will now direct officials to pursue data requests through a Mutual Legal Assistant Treaty with the U.S.As noted by the publication, requests made through the process will be routed through the Justice Department, and that can take weeks, or in some cases, months. The move c...

Open Pit is bringing two nights of music performances to Minecraft for a virtual festival dubbed Lavapalooza. Scheduled for this weekend, the festival is set to feature popular and lesser-known EDM acts such as 100 Gecs, San Holo, TNGHT, Flatbush Zombies, Ryan Hemsworth, Baauer, and more.Not every version of Minecraft will let you virtually visit the festival, however, Open Pit is providing a way for non-Minecraft users to watch and listen to the festival for free as well. We'll get into the various ways you can attend the two-day festival below.Lavapalooza: When & whereLavapalooza goes live inside Minecraft on Friday, August 14 at 6 p.m. EST and runs through Saturday, August 16. To access the full list of performers, check out the official Lavapalooza website.The festival will be held within the Java Edition of Minecraft; Bedrock Edition users will not be able to access the show. However, the official Lavapalooza website as linked above will include audio and Twitch vide...

A fitness winnerFitbit Versa 2$199 at Amazon$200 at Best Buy$199 at WalmartProsGreat battery lifeDetailed sleep trackingTwo size optionsStylish designOn-screen coachingMore affordableConsNo built-in GPSNotifications sometimes finickyFitbit is a leader in the smartwatch and fitness tracker market, and for good reason. Devices like the Versa 2 are versatile, can track just about anything, and connect you to a massive and growing community of users, including friends and like-minded individuals, who can help motivate you. The Versa 2 remains one of the best smartwatches you can buy.Smart and stylishSamsung Galaxy Watch 3From $400 at Samsung$400 at Best BuyProsBuilt-in GPSStylish wristwatch designPairs with TV for workoutsTwo size optionsLTE optionConsShort battery lifeMore smartwatch than fitnessExpensiveThe Galaxy Watch 3 combines the fitness features you'd want in a design that rivals a standard wristwatch and that you can...

Data focusedMint MobileFrom $15/month at Mint MobileProsUnlimited talk and text5G supportUnlimited 2G dataHotspot includedFree calls to Mexico, CanadaConsOnly uses T-MobileAll plans require dataMint Mobile makes a lot of sense for most smartphone users with good T-Mobile coverage thanks to three data sizes that work for most people. With 3, 6, and 12-month options available, you save money the more you're willing to buy in advance. All plans come with unlimited talk and text, including free calls to Mexico and CanadaMax flexibilityRepublic WirelessFrom $12.50/month at Republic WirelessProsSprint or T-Mobile networkUnlimited talk and textHotspot includedPlan flexibilityConsData can get expensiveNo international callingCan't choose your networkRepublic Wireless has a plan that can grow with you without the risk of buying more than you need. Data can be added to plans at $5 per 1GB with base plans starting at 1GB, 2GB, or with no...

School is a dangerous environment for most tools and tech, but none more so that phones. Phones are essential items in a phone, always in arm's reach but often bumped, dropped, or banged in the hustle and bustle of changing classrooms or running to meet up with friends at lunch. Phone grips have been a lifesaver for me and my slim fingers, and considering how affordable these ones are, they're well worth the investment.Pop-ular and adaptableSwappable PopGrips by PopSocketsStaff pickSwappable PopSockets support wireless charging when you twist off the PopTop while still allowing you a better grip, a larger range of motion, and a flash of style for your phone. These also come in a bevy of pop culture character designs, like The Child from The Mandalorian.$15 at AmazonFrom $10 at PopSocketsStylish slide gripSpeck GrabTabSpeck's phone grip is the size of a credit card, comes in dozens upon dozens of styles, and is easy to keep a precise grip on. Best of all, since th...

Having to plug in your phone every time to sit down to work, every time you head off to sleep, or every time that low battery warning chimes is as annoying as it is outdated. Ditch your cables and quit wearing out your phone's charging port by getting yourself a handy wireless charger. It's easier than ever now that more wireless chargers are switching to USB-C so you can stick to one cable.Cool and compactAnker PowerWave 15 PadStaff pick$40 at AmazonThis Qi charger can output 15W for the few devices that support it right now, plus 10W/7.5W/5W for everyone else as supported. It's a sleek look and powered by USB-C rather than Micro-USB.Best for GalaxySamsung Wireless Charger Duo Pad$67 at Amazon$68 at Best BuyThis is the perfect charger for those invested who have a Galaxy smartwatch. The pad will also support 7.5W for iPhones and standard 5W charging on top of 10W charging for Galaxy phones.Affordably futureproofYootech 15W Metal Fast Wireless Charging ...

Every kid wants a tablet. But deciding to invest in a tablet for your child is a big step, and there are several features to consider: price, parental controls, and perhaps most importantly, durability. The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Edition is a top pick not only for offering tons of great content for kids but also for its included protective bumper case and parental controls. You can manage what your kids do and not worry that they might be accessing questionable websites or web content.Best Overall: Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids EditionThe Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Edition is packed with some of the best hardware and software features you could ask for as a parent. Amazon took its top-of-the-line tablet and loaded it with parental controls, kid-specific content, and wrapped it up in a durable and functional case. While the screen size might be difficult for smaller toddlers to hold, the provided case does include a fold-out kickstand to prop up the tablet.At 1080p, the full-HD display p...

Originally scheduled to take place in April, the 2020 World Snooker Championship finally kicked off at the Crucible Theatre this month. Follow our snooker live stream guide and easily watch every frame of the World Snooker Championship online.Despite the delays due to the global pandemic, snooker has returned to its home of Sheffield as top players face-off for the sport's ultimate prize. Players like Judd Trump, Ronnie O'Sullivan, Neil Robertson, and Ding Junhui have been competing in the tournament in the iconic Crucible setting and we now approach the final weekend of play.The 2019 tournament was one of the most entertaining in recent years with Judd Trump taking on John Higgins in a dramatic final. Trump secured his first World Snooker Championship, seeing off the Scotsman in what was a modern-day classic game.Trump entered the 2020 tournament as the reigning champion and the favorite to take home to title once again but he could not overcome the Curse of the Crucible and d...

The now-fixed bug was discovered by security researcher Saugat Pokharel.What you need to knowA worrying bug was discovered on Instagram's servers.Security researcher Saugat Pokharel discovered deleted Instagram photos and messages were kept by Instagram long after he deleted them. He found data that had been stored for more than a year. A security researcher discovered a now-fixed Instagram bug that meant removed photos and messages were kept for more than a year after they were deleted.According to TechCrunch: A security researcher was awarded a $6,000 bug bounty payout after he found Instagram retained photos and private direct messages on its servers long after he deleted them. Independent security researcher Saugat Pokharel found that when he downloaded his data from Instagram, a feature it launched in 2018 to comply with new European data rules, his downloaded data contained photos and private messages with other users that he had previously deleted.As th...

It's rare for Catalan giants Barcelona to come into a match as underdogs, but Lionel Messi and co are very much the less fancied team as they prepare to face the giants of German football. Read on to find out how to watch this crucial match between Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, no matter where in the world you are.Bayern have looked imperious since football's restart, impressively brushing aside Frank Lampard's Chelsea in their last-16, second-leg clash last week - despite it being Bayern's first competitive game in over a month.As well as having Polish goal machine Robert Lewandowski in arguably the best form of his storied career, the likes of Serge Gnabry and Alphonso Davies, are also firing on all cylinders for Hans-Dieter Flick's side.Having let slip a lead in the Spanish Primera to lose out to Real Madrid, a first Champions League title in five years would make up for what has so far been a season to forget for Barcelona.But with growing reports of strained relations bet...

The new features are currently available only on mobile.What you need to knowGoogle has added new features to Search in the U.S. to help users quickly find live sports and TV shows.You can now find information on where to watch live sports by searching for the individual team or game. You can also find programming currently airing across multiple channels with the new "On TV now" carousel.Google Search has gained a few new features in the U.S. to make it easier for users to find live sports and TV shows.Satyajeet Saigar, Group Product Manager, Search, wrote in a blog post: Sports around the world look a little different this year, with important new measures to keep players, officials and fans safe. As the cheering section moves to the couch, everyone is asking the age-old question: "What channel is the game on?" So today we're adding new features to Google Search in the U.S. to help you quickly find the live games you're looking for. And when the game is over, w...

Another 5G phone makes the new standard accessible to more. for less.Update, August 14 (12:55 am ET): The Galaxy A51 5G is now available from Verizon as well.What you need to knowSamsung has introduced the Galaxy A51 5G to the U.S.It will go on sale on T-Mobile and Metro from August 7th and Verizon on the 13th. Samsung previously launched the Galaxy A71 5G for $600.Samsung has just announced the launch of the Galaxy A51 5G in the U.S this week. The phone, already sold internationally, will join the Galaxy A71 and Samsung Galaxy S20 as the company's U.S. slate of 5G phones. It will also be the cheapest phone Samsung's selling with the next-gen wireless standard at $499.99.It will come to T-Mobile and Metro from August 7, with a Verizon UW variant to follow shortly after on August 13.The Galaxy A51 is an impressively designed phone, but we weren't overly impressed with it when reviewing the 4G version earlier in the year.Writing for Android Central, Harish Jonnalagadd...

This is your last chance to pick up the OnePlus 7T.What you need to knowThe T-Mobile version of the OnePlus 7T is now available for $399, $200 off its launch price.The unlocked model was sold out months ago, and it is unlikely the T-Mobile 7T will be restocked once units run out. At $399, the OnePlus 7T is one of the best bargains you'll find in 2020. While the OnePlus 8 series gets all the attention these days, the OnePlus 7T is still a fantastic phone in 2020. It shares a lot of the same hardware as the OnePlus 8, and other than 5G connectivity, you're not missing out on much.That's why it's particularly interesting to see that the OnePlus 7T is now available for $399. That's for the T-Mobile version of the phone, with OnePlus running out of units of the unlocked model several months ago.At this point, it's clear that OnePlus is looking to sell off remaining inventory of the 7T, and at $399, you're getting one of the best bargains of the year here. While the OnePlus N...

Epic Games' lawsuit alleges Google blocked OnePlus and LG from pre-loading the Epic Games app.What you need to knowCourt documents from Epic Games' lawsuit against Google claim the search giant blocked a pre-install deal between Epic and phone manufacturers.The deal would have seen the Epic Games app installed out of the box on OnePlus and LG devices. With the deals nixed, Epic Games introduced Fortnite on the Play Store earlier this year. Epic Games rolled out an update to Fortnite that allowed players to buy in-game currency directly from Epic, in contradiction to Play Store's guidelines. As a result, Google removed Fortnite from the Play Store, leading to Epic suing the search giant.Interestingly, the court documents claim that Google blocked a deal between OnePlus and Epic that would have seen the Epic Games app — the conduit for installing Fortnite — pre-installed on OnePlus phones. The filing alleges Google was worried about the app "bypassing the Google Play St...

Samsung has taken more than a few cracks at different product categories, and smartwatches have been no exception. With several attempts at getting it right already in the books through new smartwatches and fitness trackers every year. We take a look at some of the best available, including the newest of the bunch with the Galaxy Watch 3 and its stylish take on telling more than just time.Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy Watch 3After focusing on its more fitness-focused smartwatches in 2019, Samsung pivots back to its more refined design philosophy with the Galaxy Watch 3. The watch isn't radical in sporting any sort of redesign, and it will look familiar to anyone who knows Samsung's smartwatches. But it is smaller, lighter and thinner, which could make it more appealing to a greater subset of wearers. The genuine leather band is casual and elegant all at once, and the standard lugs mean you can always strap on another one.It's also feature-laden, though a couple of key ones wil...

Get the lowdown on Mint Mobile's coverage, pricing, phones, and more.The wireless carrier space is a never-ending battle between T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. However, underneath the three big dogs is a collection of smaller brands tapping into their networks to deliver excellent wireless coverage at a fraction of the price.One such company is Mint Mobile (formally known as Mint SIM), and if you've been searching for a new way to buy phone service that can help you save a heap of money, it may be worth a look.Buy in bulkMint MobileFrom $15/month at Mint MobileA unique take on affordable wireless serviceUse T-Mobile's massive data network while saving money thanks to Mint Mobile's great data plans and multi-month savings.Jump to:Mint Mobile reviewMint Mobile pricingMint Mobile coverageMint Mobile 5G?Mint Mobile hotspot accessMint Mobile vs. the competitionMint Mobile phonesMint Mobile dealsCheck out our full reviewWe'll get into all the fine...

After a very public spat between Epic Games and Apple, Google has also removed the game from its app store.Update Aug. 13 (9:13 p.m. PT): Epic has filed a lawsuit against Google.What you need to knowGoogle removed Fortnite from the Play Store Thursday following an in-game currency update that would allow players to use Epic to make in-app purchases directly through Epic.Epic founder Tim Sweeney has spoken out against Google and Apple for its app store policies.This follows the game being removed from the Apple App Store. Epic Games also filed a suit against Apple.After a hubbub earlier today concerning Apple removing Epic Games' Fortnite from the App Store, Google has followed suit.The widely-popular game was removed from the App Store following an update where Epic Games would allow users to make in-app purchases directly through Epic instead of through Google or Apple. The option would also give users a discount on things like V-Bucks that would only be available thro...

Even though email is the most popular communication medium around the world, there are many professionals who still prefer faxing due to its security and confidentiality benefits.In fact, some government departments only accept documents sent through fax. However, in this day and age where everything is becoming compact and wireless, no one wants a fax machine that takes up half of the space in the office. This is why more and more people are shifting to online fax, especially Google fax.This article will deal with various ways to fax through Google services such as Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs, etc. without the need for a fax machine.Jump to the information you need:Sending and Receiving Faxes OnlineHow to Fax from GmailHow to Send Fax from Google DriveBenefits of Faxing with GoogleFrequently Asked QuestionsPart 1: Sending and Receiving Faxes OnlineFax machines require a lot of investments, space, and added necessities such as phone lines, paper, toner, etc, co...

Fortnite is an intense game that needs a pretty capable Android phone to run it properly. A multiplayer match involving up to 100 unique players is bound to push a phone to its limit, but these phones are sure to run those matches without any hiccups. The OnePlus 8 Pro is our favorite pick with its huge display, and specs that are better than some computers that are used to run Fortnite.Best Overall: OnePlus 8 ProOnePlus has worked with Fortnite creator Epic Games to run the game at 90Hz — which translates to a silky smooth 90fps — on OnePlus phones like the OnePlus 8 Pro. And with at least 8GB of RAM and a Snapdragon 865 chipset both delivering enough memory and processing power for great gaming performance, your phone will never overheat or feel sluggish while playing Fortnite.OxygenOS continues to deliver a simple and speedy software experience that allows for customization, including the Fnatic gaming mode, which offers fine controls for avoiding distractions while ga...

A lengthy list of helpful tools.What you need to knowUbisoft has detailed a list of accessibility options that will be included in Watch Dogs: Legion.These can aid in a variety of ways, from motor and cognitive functions to motion sickness. Watch Dogs: Legion is set to be released on October 29. Today, Ubisoft revealed several new accessibility options that will be included in Watch Dogs: Legion. This isn't an entirely comprehensive list, as Ubisoft notes more will be added by the time the game launches. With that said, it's a good idea of what to expect overall.On Consoles and PC:Gamepad controls are fully customizable, including the analog stick sensitivity and inversion across both axes. (Motor, Cognitive)On PC:Mouse and Keyboard controls are fully customizable, including mouse sensitivity. There's support for third-party hardware, including Microsoft Xbox Adaptive controller and co-pilot via the Xbox Accessories App.(Motor, Cognitive)Toggle/hold options for...

Why would you need a game controller for your Samsung Galaxy phone? Samsung hasn't explicitly jumped into the world of gaming-specific smartphones, but since you're provided with some of the best specs to go along with amazing displays, Samsung smartphones, like the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, make for a perfect gaming experience. In order to make the most out of xCloud and other games on your phone, you'll need a great game controller to pair with it.Versatility at its finestRazer KishiStaff pickRazer's Kishi controller is quite impressive. It not only fits just about every smartphone, but the USB-C port ensures low-latency gaming. When not in use, the two sides slide together, making for easy portability or storage.$80 at Amazon$80 at Best Buy$80 at WalmartNot just for AndroidSteelSeries Stratus DuoThe Stratus Duo is the latest great Android gaming controller from SteelSeries. Once again, the company has designed a comfortable controller — this time with a recharg...

What is Ghostwire: Tokyo? This new IP shown at Bethesda's E3 2019 is still as mysterious as it is creepy, but that just has us more intrigued.At Bethesda's E3 2019 press conference, they showed off two entirely brand new IPs — one of them was called Ghostwire: Tokyo. Creative director Ikumi Nakamura took the stage with a level of confidence, enthusiasm, and sincerity that immediately charmed the audience, and deeply contrasted with the level of creepiness and dark aesthetic beauty of the trailer she led into. Whatever Ghostwire: Tokyo is, the concepts for it presented in a CGI video look incredible.Since then, more has been revealed, with some significant footage shown during Sony's PS5 showcase, the Future of Gaming. Nakamura is no longer on the project, Mikami is now director and this game is a timed console exclusive. Here's what we now know:Jump to:What is Ghostwire: Tokyo?What is the story?Check out the trailersWhat's the gameplay like?You can pet dogs!Why did ...

Traditionally you play your game console at home unless it's a Nintendo Switch that's built for easy portability. However, it's not a totally ridiculous idea that you might want to carry your PlayStation 4 around with you, particularly if you're traveling on a lengthy trip. It's not the most convenient thing you'll ever do, but with the right accessories, you'll be able to travel (fairly) light and have a great experience on the road.All-in-oneGAEMS VanguardStaff pickThis big beastly thing is an all-in-one travel solution for your PS4. It combines a durable, protective case with an HD monitor, so you can literally play anywhere you have power. Inside there is LED lighting, which is super important, along with a custom fit foam base and accessory bags.$267 at Amazon$300 at Best Buy$300 at WalmartSimple and effectiveHori Universal HD portable monitorIn some markets, this monitor comes with an official Sony PS4 license. Still, it's also sold without the logo on the...

Iron Man, Deadpool, Gamora, Dr. Strange, Mystique... Marvel has been with us for nearly 50 years and they've created something for everyone. While Squirrel Girl, my personal favorite, isn't likely to make it into the Marvel movies or video games anytime soon there are plenty of games to help get your fix no matter who your best-loved hero is!★ Featured favoriteLego Marvel Super HeroesLego Marvel. What's not to love? That's two of our favorite things in one game! Currently the best selling Lego game of all time, Lego Marvel Super Heroes lets you pick from 180 marvel characters to play, each with their own unique abilities. There is even a Stan Lee cameo!$30 at Amazon$20 at Best Buy$36 at WalmartBe greaterMarvel's Spider-ManStaff favoriteThis is the newest game portrayal of our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man and it is indeed the best. You can really enjoy the free-flowing, web-slinging movement of Spider-Man in this open world adventure. Swing betwee...

Travel is opening up again and Google wants you to be prepared.What you need to knowA new Google update will let users see hotel and flight capacity in cities they intend to travel to for vacation or otherwise.Google will also let users see which hotels offer fee-free cancelation when booking.Both moves are aimed at helping users make informed travel decisions in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.As the COVID-19 pandemic comes under control in some parts of the world Google Search will now show you additional information about travel destinations."As restrictions and advisories begin to lift, we're adding information about travel resuming in a specific destination on Google Search. In the next week, you'll see the percentage of open hotels with availability and flights operating at the city or county level based on Google Flights and Hotels data from the previous week," Google's Richard Holden, VP, Product Management, Travel, said.Over the past few months, Google has up...

Best answer: Yes, Sony has confirmed that the PS5 will be backward compatible with the PlayStation VR (PSVR) headset. Your headset, games and accessories will carry over into the next generation.Build your library: PlayStation Store Gift Card (From $10 at Amazon)Coming soon: PlayStation 5 (See at Amazon)PSVR on PS5 Can I use my PSVR on PS5?Yes. While Sony is almost certainly working on a newer version of the PSVR headset, it won't be ready to launch alongside the PS5. As such, the company has confirmed that the current PSVR headset will be compatible with the PS5.For an idea of what tech might go into the next PlayStation VR headset (or PSVR2) then you can check out this patent here, as well as some concepts that Sony has previously talked about. While these improvements appear enticing, it could be some time before we see it materialize into the next available headset.PSVR on PS5 What about my PSVR games on PS5?Your PSVR games will also be compatible with PS5, as Sony...

Rebuild Alexandria as Rick, Daryl, Michonne, and Carol in a story tie-in with the AMC TV show.What you need to knowThe Walking Dead Onslaught releases on September 29, 2020, starting at $30.Supported platforms include Steam VR, Oculus Rift, and PlayStation VR on the PS4 and PS5.Play as one of four favorite characters from the AMC show as you hack through zombies and work to rebuild Alexandria.It's been some time since the original announcement at the beginning of 2019 but, after some delays, the latest Walking Dead VR game is almost here. Releasing September 29, 2020, The Walking Dead Onslaught will be available on PlayStation VR, Oculus Rift, and Steam VR headset for $29.99. A Deluxe Edition is available for $39.99, which includes an Iconic Show Weapons Pack, Lucille, Rick's Mace, The Red Machete, and Tyreese's Hammer, Alexandria Crafting Starter Kit, The Walking Dead Onslaught Mini-Soundtrack and Art Book. PlayStation Store pre-orders will also include a special PS4 Theme...

Assist Mode should help you finish the game ahead of the Control AWE expansion.What you need to knowRemedy will be releasing a free August update ahead of Control's AWE expansion on Aug. 27.The update will feature an upgrade to one of the most widely-used powers in the game and an Assist Mode that'll help players customize their experience.This was announced during a demo of the first 15-minutes of the game streamed on Twitch Thursday. Remedy Games announced that it'll be releasing a free August update for Control players ahead of the upcoming AWE story expansion, which will include upgraded powers and a new mode to make the game easier.The first big change will be Multi-Launch, which upgrades the Launch ability by allowing Jesse to grab up to three objects instead of just one.However, more wide-ranging is the introduction of the Assist Mode, which allows players to enable features that might make the game easier. For example, you can make Jesse Faden regenerate energy ...

For anyone who loves creative writing, being able to earn a living from selling books is the ultimate dream. The Creative Writing eBook Self-Publishing Bundle helps you bring those dreams to life, with 10 courses on the craft and business of professional authorship. You can get it now for just $39.99.In times past, authors had to score a book deal to have any chance of turning pro. But now, anyone can make money selling ebooks on platforms like Amazon.Featuring 13 hours of instruction, this collection of courses helps you follow in the footsteps of successful ebook entrepreneurs. Through concise video lessons, you learn about novel writing, self-publishing, and building a business.Along the way, you discover how to format your text for Kindle and create eye-catching covers. The training also helps you build an author website and publish your work in paperback format via Amazon KDP. You even learn how to turn your words into a profitable online course.These courses are worth $1,...

Once upon a time, strategy games and consoles didn't really get along. If you wanted to play great strategy games, your best bet was to stick to a PC. However, things have changed. Consoles are far more powerful than they once were, and various developers have created solid strategy games which you can experience from the comfort of your couch. If you enjoy getting down to the nitty-gritty, looking for any advantage, and tactical planning, then strategy games might just be what you're looking for.★ Featured favoriteXCOM 2Firaxis games have been churning out stellar strategy games for the better part of two decades. XCOM 2 is the latest entry to the long-running series, which was launched in 1994. Not unlike other installments, you take on the role of a commander in the military organization known as XCOM. It is your job to defend earth from occupying alien forces. XCOM 2 represents one of the purest military strategy experiences available on PS4.$18 at Amazon1-2 S...

The days of spending hundreds on your phone plan are over — or at least, they can be. Boost Mobile is home to five different phone plans offered at less than $50 per month, and thanks to its latest deal, you can score one of the best plans at a $10 discount every month.Normally priced at $45 per month, Boost has a plan which offers 15GB of 4G LTE data each month along with Unlimited Talk and Text. However, right now the company is offering to drop the price of that plan down to just $35 per month, every month, after you've made six monthly payments on time. You don't have to wait six months to start seeing a discount either, as the plan will see a $5 price decrease after you've made three payments on time.This plan at Boost also comes with Mobile Hotspot access. Shopping for your phone service at Boost is stellar as there are no service contracts and 99% nationwide coverage. Plus, taxes and fees are included in the price you see on the page so there are no shady charges once yo...

Mom, come pick me up. I'm scared.The development studio Young Horses created a classic pair of games with the Octodad series, and now it's back to deliver more fun with the weird and wacky Bugsnax. This time, though, the fun is more bizarre than anyone could have ever imagined. Here's everything you need to know about Bugsnax, including when it's coming out, what the story will be about, and more.Quick menuRelease date and pricingDevelopment and revealStory and settingGameplay designVisuals and presentationWhat is the Bugsnax release date and pricing?Bugsnax is currently set to release during the Holiday 2020 season on PS4 and PS5, as well as on PC through the Epic Games Store. For now, we're not sure what the price will be, but hopefully we'll know more about that as we get closer to release.Bugsnax — development and revealBugsnax was revealed to the world during the PlayStation 5 event on June 11, 2020. During the show, the game's trailer was played,...

As more and more companies come out with their own version of true wireless earbuds, there still remains a spot for a major contender to lead the market for Android devices as Apple does for iOS with its AirPods. The Samsung Galaxy Buds True Wireless Earbuds hope to take the reigns, and today you can see if they're worthy or not for just $57.99 via today's refurb deal at BackMarket.These are refurbished earbuds meaning they have been tested and inspected to ensure they look and work like new — plus, they're in Mint condition. BackMarket includes the original box and accessories with today's purchase, as well as new rubber ear tips. You'll also score a one-year warranty and free U.S. shipping. Buying refurbished saves you over 50% compared to the retail price of a brand new set, though only the white pair of headphones is available at this low price today.If you own a Samsung Galaxy phone, these earbuds would pair perfectly. They're capable of lasting for up to six hours on thei...

When your Android phone budget maxes out at $400, the Google Pixel 4a is the best phone you can get. That's because it offers the same core experience as the higher-end Pixel 4 that preceded it. You get the same software and features, and the exact same camera experience. The only shortcomings come in the hardware and a couple of the specs — a fine trade-off to save hundreds of dollars.Best Overall: Google Pixel 4aThe Pixel 3a from 2019 stood out as one of the best Android values for well over a year, and to fill its impressive shoes, we now have the Pixel 4a. Google took what worked about the 3a, kept it in place, and added a few improvements to make the Pixel 4a as fully-featured as possible — all while selling the Pixel 4a for less than what the 3a cost.As with any Pixel phone, the best thing about the Pixel 4a is its camera. The 12.2MP single rear camera certainly isn't impressive on paper, but in actual use, it's outstanding. Pictures are detailed, colors are great, ...

The best cases for the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra needs to balance protection and profile, style and substance, and do it all without breaking the bank. The Note 20 Ultra is one of the most cutting-edge phones on the market, but it's also one of the largest and heaviest phones in 2020 as well. Combine that with the luxury price tag that Samsung demands, and you have a recipe for disaster if you dare to take your new phone out into the world naked. Skip the public smartphone indecency and get yourself a great case.Slim and sublimeRingke Air-SStaff pickIf you don't want to bulk up your Note 20 Ultra but need to add some grip, the Air-S is a minimalist case that will give your fingers more purchase than expected while also guarding against scratches.$11 at AmazonSustatinable styleSamsung Kvadrat CoverThe Kvadrat Cover we loved on the S20+ is back for the Note 20 and it looks even more vibrant and lovely than ever. It's made of sustainable materials and feels fabulous in th...

The Google Pixel 4a is one of the most compelling phones of 2020, offering excellent performance and cameras for less than half the price of a flagship. While it might not cost thousands of dollars, that doesn't mean that it's any less worthy of protection. Whether you need to spice up the Just Black of the Pixel 4a or need to keep it safe from the chaos outside your door, these are the best Pixel 4a cases you can buy right now.Pretty protectionCaseology ParallaxStaff pickThis hybrid case comes in three dazzling color combinations — a deep navy blue, a lighter purple, and a darling coral/gold two-tone — and offers drop protection and grip in a compact profile.$15 at Amazon$15 at WalmartGuard the front and backPoetic RevolutionThis heavy-duty case comes with a screen protector built into the front frame, offering 360 degrees of protection for your new Pixel 4a. I also like the robust kickstand on the back that can be used in portrait or landscape.$17 at Amaz...

Available for paid Dropbox Plus, Professional, and Family users.What you need to knowDropbox Vault and Dropbox Password, first announced on June 16th, are officially available to paid Dropbox subscribers.Dropbox Password is already available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.Dropbox Vault allows you to store sensitive files in an encrypted, PIN-protected folder, and grant view-only permissions to trusted users.You likely know Dropbox for its cloud storage services, but the company has recently branched out into password management, as well. Back in June, Dropbox rolled out a beta preview of its new password manager, along with Dropbox Vault, a pin-protected section within your storage for safely backing up sensitive information — which is, of course, encrypted at every step.Today, Dropbox Vault and Dropbox Password are officially out of beta, though you'll need to be a paying user on a Dropbox Plus or Family plan to gain access to either feature (Dropbox Professional...

Players allegedly shouldn't worry about the next Resident Evil being too short.What you need to knowResident Evil Village is the next game being developed and published by Capcom.According to someone with a strong track record, it's the longest game developed using RE Engine.This would make it longer than Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, Resident Evil 2, Devil May Cry 5 or Resident Evil 3.Resident Evil Village is the eighth mainline entry in Capcom's long-running survival-horror franchise. There's a still lot we don't know but according to an individual with a great track record, Resident Evil Village might be longer than players are expecting.Aesthetic Gamer aka Dusk Golem has a history of sharing accurate details on upcoming Resident Evil games. Months before the reveal of Resident Evil Village, they accurately shared that it would be a first-person game starring Ethan and Chris, while taking place in a winter village that has werewolf-like beastmen.Now, they've commented ...

The Oculus Quest is a fantastic new way to play your favorite VR games. It's also a great way to play all your favorite PC games, even if that requires extra setup. There are several different apps that can be used to do the job, but we've highlighted two of our favorites. One is completely free, while the other offers an enhanced experience for a minor cost.Products used in this guideStreaming to VR: Virtual Desktop ($20 at Oculus)On-the-go VR: Oculus Quest ($399 at Oculus)Note: By following our guide, you can create a gigantic digital display to enjoy all your favorite games on. However, Virtual Desktop does not support crossbuy between versions, so you have to make sure you purchase the Oculus Quest version of the app, which can be found here.The best quality: Virtual DesktopVirtual Desktop might cost money but it's, by far, the best way to play PC games on your Oculus Quest wirelessly. It's not just about compatibility or ease, but also overall quality. As of this wr...

If you've been waiting for Best Buy to open preorders, wait no more.What you need to knowSurface Duo is now available for preorder at Best Buy.Microsoft, Best Buy, and AT&T are all three offering Duo preorders.You can preorder both Duo models at Best Buy for $1,400 for the 128GB model and $1,500 for 256GB.The Surface Duo finally got a September 10 release date today, and preorders are starting to go live. We've already seen preorders arrive on the Microsoft Store, while AT&T is set to launch them tonight. Now, you can also add Best Buy to the list, too.Best Buy has both Surface Duo models available to preorder. You can pick up the model with 128GB of storage for $1,400, while the 256GB model costs $1,500. Both are expected to ship on the September 10 launch date.Surface Duo is Microsoft's approach to a mobile productivity device, giving users two screens to boost multitasking. It's also incredibly thin, giving it distinctly light look despite its width. Here's a...

It'll likely feature a 6.2-inch main display, much like the first RAZR.What you need to knowMotorola today teased its launch event for the RAZR 2.The company's next flagship is slated for a reveal on September 9.It plans to "flip the smartphone experience again."In line with a previous estimate by an exec from parent company Lenovo, Motorola today teased the upcoming launch of the RAZR 2 on September 9.The tease doesn't reveal much more than that, except for a slight glimpse at the phone's silhouette. The company captioned the gif with a promise to "flip the smartphone experience again," which suggests it may have some surprises in store for us, though the chatter about the RAZR 2 thus far suggests it'll be mostly similar to the original RAZR, albeit with updated internals.A leaked image of the phone shows it has a very similar design to the original, likely with an identical 6.2-inch main display. In terms of specs, the phone is pegged to be an upper-midrange affair,...

Additional insight into what went wrong.What you need to knowRagtag is a canceled Star Wars game that was being developed by Visceral Games.EA closed Visceral Games in 2017.A producer who worked on the game has given some insight into what went wrong.Electronic Arts (EA) hasn't had the easiest time with its Star Wars projects. There have been multiple cancellations, including one which led EA to shut down Visceral Games in 2017, ending the studio's work on a project known as Ragtag under Amy Hennig. Zach Mumbach, former producer at Visceral Games, spoke with the MinnMaxShow about his time working at Visceral and gave additional details on this canceled game."The sequence of events was like - 'hey, we have a studio with their own engine who make really high quality single-player games - the Dead Space series, right - and we're going to take that studio, move them to Frostbite and have them make a Battlefield game,'" Mumbach says.As a result of this, a lot of the staff at...

If Samsung leverages ARM's Cortex-X program and AMD graphics we'll all want to see an Exynos inside our phones.Most of us only want one thing from the chip inside of our phones, and that's the power to do everything we want as fast as we want.Depending on how you use your phone and what model it is, you might not be getting what you want. Our phones do a lot, even when we're not asking them to do something ourselves. There are hundreds of tasks running through your phone's application processor at all times and even more when you're actually using it. That's a lot of work to ask of a device powered by a relatively small battery. If you want the fastest phone you can buy today, it will have a Snapdragon chip inside.Qualcomm has things figured out. The Snapdragon line of SoCs (System on a Chip) are some of the best mobile chipsets that you'll find. That's because Qualcomm spends a lot of money taking ARM's base designs and customizing them into tiny powerhouses. When you com...

It's no secret that the DualShock 4's weak point is its analog sticks. The surfaces are slippery and domed, and the grip material isn't very durable. Some players also find them to be too stiff. Thumb grips for your PlayStation 4 controller can help with all of that. We've highlighted the best options here, from grips designed to give you an edge in first-person shooters to entire collections of grips that can be used for matching your style — or simply protecting the controller from wear and tear.Ultimate ControlKontrolFreek Galaxy Performance for PS4Staff PickKontrolFreek's Galaxy Performance offers superior grip and security thanks to its clasp-like mounting mechanism and studded surface. Heightened raise also gives you greater control, offering greater accuracy and range of motion.$15 at Best Buy$15 at GameStopFor FPS GamersKontrolFreek FPS Freek Vortex for PS4Here's something specifically for those who love playing first-person shooters. These grips vary...

The Anker Soundcore Bluetooth speaker has dropped to $22.99, and if you clip the 10% off on-page coupon you can get the price down even further to just $20.69. That's a solid drop compared to its regular price of $27, which is what it has been selling for since last year. We don't see this speaker drop in price directly very often. It usually needs a coupon code or on-page coupon like today's deal. The price today is as low as we've seen it go, though, regardless of the way the discount was applied. The coupon discount actually works on every color of the speaker, including blue and red, but the other colors are both running more expensive at $26 and $33, so it won't save you as much.The Soundcore speaker is one of Anker's best. It has high-sensitivity drivers and a patented bass port. What that means for you is powerful sound, exceptional clarity, and zero distortion even at high volume. You'll be able to feel the bass if that's what you want.One of the great features of this sp...

In most careers, larger salaries are usually linked to management. The Ultimate Leadership & Stress Management Bundle helps you adapt to a more senior role, with 11 hours of practical advice for just $39.99.Many top CEOs are not born leaders. Rather than relying on charisma, they create systems to motivate their staff and keep track of every project. This bundle helps you master these techniques and apply them to your own workplace.The training includes nine separate courses, each focusing on a different aspect of leadership. You start by learning the fundamentals of project management, from setting goals to giving constructive feedback, before diving into interpersonal skills and time management.You also learn how to motivate people and keep your own stress levels under control. These skills can make a huge difference to your working life, no matter whether you are a team leader or a business owner.The courses have great reviews, and lifetime access means you can revisit ...

College is exciting, crazy, and a little scary. The road has a lot of twists and turns, bumps, hurdles, and a few slides along the way. Here are a dozen great Android apps to help you through each part of your college career and get to the other side, ready to conquer the world.Daily plannerEvernoteStaff pickWith this app, you can easily schedule your day with color-coded tasks, checklists, and reminders. It integrates with Google apps, including Google's calendar, and both syncs and works across devices. There is a place to enter and keep notes from classes, file scanned documents and clips from online articles.Get at Google PlayDiscount textbooksChegg BooksChegg lets you buy or rent textbooks – physical and ebooks – for up to 90 percent less than the campus bookstore. You can use the app to sell back books at the end of the semester to earn a little extra money. Other school supplies are also available for purchase through this app.Get at Google Play...