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Best answer: 3D audio should give players a more immersive gaming experience and allow them to pick up directional sounds they were unable to before, possibly even giving them an advantage in a match.Lose the speakers: EasySMX VIP003S RGB Gaming Headset ($29 at Amazon)Premium option: SteelSeries Arctis 7 ($125 at Amazon) Preorder: PS5 (See at Amazon)What is 3D audio support?3D audio emulates real-life sound waves by producing sounds that come from all directions in a 3D space but having it emanate from one point.When you're sitting in a room, your ears should be able to detect which direction a sound is coming from and how far away it is, like if a phone in another room rings or something falls off of a shelf next to you. Usually, normal stereo speakers can't provide the same type of feedback, which means you cannot distinguish the direction a sound is coming from, nor if it is far or close to you. 3D audio can replicate these effects from just two speakers, and it can ev...

The VR game will share stories from different eras of the Star Wars series.What you need to knowILMxLab dropped a new teaser trailer for Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge as part of the Facebook Connect.The trailer features Anthony Daniels reprising his role as C-3PO.The game will be available this holiday season.Master Yoda and C-3PO will be among the iconic Star Wars character players will be able to interract with in the VR game Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge, which will release exclusively on Occulus Quest this holiday season. A new teaser trailer shared during the Sept. 16 Facebook Connect showed Anthony Daniels voicing C-3PO as you help the "highly trained Resistance spy."Players take on the role of a droid repair technician whose ship is attacked by pirates, forcing them to land on Batuu. That planet is the setting of Disney's Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge theme park, where visitors can use a mobile game to accomplish various missions in Black Spire O...

Further examination of this creepy village and its inhabitants.What you need to knowA new trailer for Resident Evil Village was released during a recent PS5 games showcase.Several new screenshots have also been released.They provide another look at the werewolf-esque enemies and other things in the village.Resident Evil Village is the next big game from Capcom and while there's still a lot we don't know, Capcom shared a new trailer at the recent PS5 games showcase. Additionally, Capcom has released several new screenshots giving a more detailed look at the werewolf-like enemies in the game, as well as a few other interesting things. While this latest trailer and screenshots provide another glimpse at the game, we should be learning more at Tokyo Game Show 2020. Resident Evil Village is a direct sequel to Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, with Ethan returning as the playable character. The first-person perspective also returns, with a strong focus on the survival...

My kids, like many others, hate school lunch. Even my high schoolers prefer to bring their mid-day meal rather than face the lunch lady. Here are some of the boxes, bags, and containers I've found that help keep food hot, cold and appetizing in between catching the bus and lunchtime.Ultimate lunch systemVersal Lunch CoolerStaff pickThis insulated lunch bag has three compartments with enough room in one to hold three food containers, which are included. Another compartment is designed to hold drink bottles, boxes or cans and keep them chilled. The Versal Lunch Cooler includes two reusable ice packs and extra pockets inside and out to hold a lot of extra food.$20 at AmazonFreezable LunchboxPackIt LunchboxThe PackIt Lunchbox walls are insulated with a freezable gel. Place it in the freezer overnight and the entire lunchbox will be cold enough to keep foods chilled for several hours. This is a great solution for keeping fruits, veggies, cheese, yogurt and other ...

Sony is gearing up to release the PS5, its most ambitious console to date.While development on the PS5 has likely been going on for years, Sony has officially confirmed that it's in the works and is on its way this year. The PS5 is set to release on November 12 at $499. The PS5 Digital Edition will cost $399 and hit store shelves on the same day.Waiting for November 12PlayStation 5See PS5 at AmazonSee PS5 Digital Edition at AmazonSee PS5 at Best BuySee PS5 Digital Edition at Best BuyGet your hands on it before it sells outThe PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition are now available to pre-order from your favorite retailers. With two versions to choose from, you'll be able to pick which best suits your budget. PS5 is the place to be for exclusives like Spider-Man and Horizon Forbidden West. Get yours before they sell out.PS5 FAQPS5 cost and release dateWhen's the next PS5 event?PS5 designIs there a digital edition PS5?PS5 specsPS5 gamesIs PS5 backward compatible...

Chromebooks haven't had a proper light or dark theme since Google overhauled the operating system to make it more touch-friendly.What you need to knowGoogle is working on theme support for Chromebooks.Chromebooks as of now sport a hybrid theme with some elements being dark and others being white..Other upcoming Chromebook features include the new Phone Hub and integrated media controls with quick settings.Chromebooks are set to receive proper dark and light themes as Google works on a slight redesign of the operating system.The changes were spotted in Chromium Gerrit by the good folks over at Android Police who also provided a mockup of how the new light theme could look. Google has also been working on a dark mode as well. It'll likely look the same as Android 10's when it ships, and make some of Google's blinding white apps easier on the eyes.Chrome OS at the moment has neither a strict light theme nor a dark one, it was a hybrid of both. The notification center is ...

From movie recommendations to self-driving cars, most cutting-edge technology is powered by big data. The Deep Learning & Data Analysis Certification Bundle helps you dive into this exciting field, with 30 hours of expert instruction for just $39.99.To make smart decisions, both humans and machines need to run the numbers. For this reason, data scientists are always in demand. Whether you want to become a data specialist or simply improve your résumé, this bundle offers some essential training.Through eight engaging video courses, you discover how to analyze and visualize data by writing code. Along the way, you learn to work with Python, R, Google Data Studio, PyTorch, Keras, and other tools.The training also looks at artificial intelligence, machine learning, and image processing. Through hands-on tutorials, you discover how to build smart software that can reveal key insights.Your instructor is Minerva Singh, a data scientist who has taught over 63,000 students.These ...

Whether you carry your media library with you, shoot a lot of 4K (or even 8K) video, or you're looking to download a few movies ahead of a long commute, expandable storage is essential for a lot of users. Thankfully, even in 2020, you still have plenty of options available, ranging from the high end with endless features packed in, to budget options if you don't want to spend upwards of $1,000 on a phone. These are the best Android phones with expandable storage.Best overallSamsung Galaxy Note 20 UltraStaff pickThe headphone jack may be dead in modern Samsung phones, but the MicroSD slot is alive and well in the Note 20 Ultra. You already get pretty sizeable storage internally, with options for 256GB or 512GB, but if even that's not enough, you can add up to 1TB with a microSD card. You'll also get a 6.9-inch 120Hz display, a 108MP primary camera, a telephoto with up to 50X zoom, and a 4500mAh battery.$1,100 at Amazon$1,100 at Best Buy $1,100 at B&HGreat for one-h...

One of the best deals to ever reach Masterclass is here for just one day only. Right now, college students can score a one-year All-Access Pass at Masterclass for only $1. This subscription normally costs $180 and does automatically renew unless you cancel beforehand. You'll need to sign up with a valid .edu email address to take advantage of this offer, and be sure to do it quick as this offer is only available today, September 17.Masterclass is full of courses taught by experts and well-known leaders in various fields, and your All-Access Pass gives you unlimited access to all of them. You could take a class on poker from a professional poker player or the art of negotiation from a former FBI hostage negotiator. Neil deGrasse Tyson has a course on scientific thinking and communication, Natalie Portman teaches acting, and Anna Wintour guides students through creativity and leadership.A majority of the content at Masterclass is in video format, professionally shot and edited, and...

The PS5 is shaping up to be an incredibly powerful console the likes of which we have never seen before.Sony's next-generation console, named the PS5, is gracing store shelves this holiday, and the company has revealed some of specs to give fans a taste of just how powerful it will be. The PS5 is looking like quite the machine, in comparison to both the current crop of consoles and the next generation Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S also in the works right now from Microsoft.The PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition are set to release on November 12 in select countries for $499 and $399, respectively.Holiday 2020PlayStation 5See PS5 at AmazonSee PS5 Digital Edition at AmazonSee PS5 at Best BuySee PS5 Digital Edition at Best BuyGet your hands on it before it sells outThe PS5 is available for preorder now and it's selling out lightning fast. Be sure to secure yours before it's too late. The PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition will set you back either $499 or $99 depending on which v...

Best answer: Yes. Though the PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition were shown to be standing vertically during the initial announcement, both can lay on their sides horizontally. However, it appears that a special base may be needed to do so.Preorder: PS5 (See at Amazon)Can the PS5 lay on its side?Just like its predecessor, the PS5 can lay flat on its side. There was some worry that it would need to stand vertically because it was shown that way during its initial announcement, but this is not the case. Both the PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition can be placed horizontally.Does the PS5 need a base to lay horizontally?It appears so. We haven't seen too many pictures of the PS5 on its side, but those that have been released have some type of base underneath it to support it. This is likely due to the fact that the outer shell of the PS5 is curved and not flat.Sony has not stated whether or not this is the same base that will be used when the console is standing vertically, or if players w...

If you've been eyeing up the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra but didn't want to spend top-dollar to get one, then today is your lucky day. Amazon is currently discounting the top-of-the-line 512GB model by $400, dropping it lower than the 128GB version. While other models are discounted by around $200, this is an unprecedented price drop for the new flagship phone.To look at, the Galaxy Note 20 5G and Galaxy Note 20 5G Ultra are remarkably similar save for a few details that lead to the difference in price between the two models.Both phones are almost the same physical size with just a few millimeters separating the two. The screens are also similar in size with the Note 20 featuring a 6.7-inch display and the Note 20 Ultra fitting in a 6.9-inch panel. The respective size of the batteries is also similarly close at 4,300 and 4,500mAh, respectively, and both models are powered by the same Snapdragon 865+ chipset. You'll also get fast charging, wireless charging, stereo speakers, an i...

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, and there are several versions to choose from.From $19 at Amazon$30 at WalmartTrivia board gameWhen in RomeWhen in Rome is a travel-oriented trivia board game that tests your knowledge of 20 cities worldwide. Just like Escape Room in a Box, When in Rome ties into Alexa to add music, sound effects, and even character voices...

The Play Store and Stadia are a big part of this.What you need to knowGoogle today focused on the gaming promise of the Chrome OS platform and Chromebooks.It highlighted a new Premium games section for the Play Store on Chromebooks and also offers Chromebook buyers 3-months of free Stadia.Google promises more updates coming soon.When you think of gaming platforms, you may think consoles, and then PCs maybe even mobile. But Google's trying to get you to include Chromebooks in that list as well. The company today highlighted a couple of changes it was making to its computing platform to make it a better gaming platform.The hidden Premium section in the Play Store is now official and live, and you'll be able to see games Google thinks you'll want to play on your Chromebook. The games themselves aren't particularly impressive, being more casual mobile gams. Perhaps Google hopes that gaming on Chromebooks catches on enough for developers to build discrete experiences befitting...

The best Nokia phones are aimed at the budget and mid-tier segments. Nokia devices feature a classic industrial design and clean software in the form of Android One, ensuring no bloatware and fast updates. The Nokia 7.2 continues to lead the pack, and Nokia has plenty of other options that are just as exciting.Do everythingNokia 7.2Staff pickThe Nokia 7.2 is still one of the best options if you want a value-focused phone. It has great hardware in the form of a Snapdragon 660 chipset, 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and you get a 48-megapixel camera at the back and 20-megapixel shooter up front. The 6.3-inch FHD+ display has HDR10, there's a 3,500mAh battery, and the phone also has a 3.5mm jack.$349 at AmazonA new budget optionNokia 5.3The Nokia 5.3 is an exciting budget device that is powered by the Snapdragon 665 chipset. You get reliable performance for most day-to-day tasks, there's a large 6.55-inch 720p screen, 13MP camera at the back, and the 4000mAh batter...

A solid choice for allGarmin Venu$300 at AmazonProsAMOLED display20+ preloaded sports appsMusic storage for 500 songsSpO2 monitoringBody BatteryConsLacks LTE connectivitySmaller storage capacityLimited app selectionOnly one size optionThe Garmin Venu comes with 20+ preloaded sports apps, built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, on-screen workouts, sleep tracking, and much more. Anyone can enjoy all the perks this smartwatch has to offer.Ideal for Apple usersApple Watch Series 6From $399 at AmazonProsOptional LTETwo size optionsSleep trackingElectrocardiogram sensorSpO2 monitoringConsMore expensiveShort battery lifeNot a major upgrade from predecessorIf you own an iPhone, you simply can't go wrong with the Apple Watch Series 6. You'll enjoy great app support, ample storage, Apply Pay, and optional LTE connectivity. You get some neat new health/fitness perks, too.Garmin Venu vs. Apple Watch Series 6 How do they compare?Wh...

Microsoft Garage interns spent months optimizing the Microsoft News app for the Surface Duo.What you need to knowA team of Microsoft Garage interns redesigned the Microsoft News app for the Surface Duo.The team figured out several ways to utilize the two screens of the Surface Duo.The team also had to figure out ways to change the app to fit the unique aspect ratio of the Surface Duo.A team of Microsoft interns helped redesign the Microsoft News app and to optimize it for the Surface Duo. A new blog post from the team summarizes how they identified the core functionality of the app and expanded upon it to utilize the Surface Duo's unique form factor.The team consisted of Eric Sun – Western University, Judy Zhong – University of Waterloo, Sara Li – University of Calgary, Eishan Lawrence – University of British Columbia, Rithvik Alluri – University of British Columbia, Kate Vlaar – University of Alberta, and Natalia Maximo – University of Ottawa.Redesigning ...

Cheap and growingBoost MobileFrom $10/month at Boost MobileProsT-Mobile and Sprint network availableGreat international add-onsComes with hotspot data5G on all expanded coverage plansConsOlder devices stuck on SprintConfusing network optionsBoost Mobile has earned a reputation for offering cheap data and excellent packages to call and roam in Mexico. The weakest part has always been the Sprint network, but thanks to Boost's new Expanded Network, based on T-Mobile, Boost customers now have access to much greater coverage. All plans come with hotspot data if you want to share your connection as well.Multi-line discountsCricket WirelessFrom $30/month at CricketProsHuge AT&T networkGreat phone supportMulti-line discountsConsHotspot and 5G are only on the top planData speed limitsCricket's most significant value comes with its family plans. With two or more lines, Cricket's top unlimited plan is one of the best values for heavy da...

The OnePlus Buds Z will likely be priced under $50 in the U.S.What you need to knowOnePlus is apparently working on a cheaper version of its OnePlus Buds true wireless earbuds.The upcoming pair will be called the OnePlus Buds Z.It is possible that the OnePlus Buds Z could debut alongside the OnePlus 8T.OnePlus unveiled its first pair of true wireless earbuds in July this year, alongside the mid-range OnePlus Nord smartphone. According to tipster Max J. on Twitter, the company is now working on an even more affordable version of the OnePlus Buds.pic.twitter.com/mAN4k90s6M— Max J. (@MaxJmb) September 16, 2020Max J. says the upcoming true wireless earbuds will be called the OnePlus Buds Z. However, this isn't the first time that the OnePlus Buds Z name has surfaced online. Earlier this month, an OxygenOS 11 Open Beta build for the OnePlus 8 series had also hinted at the existence of a cheaper pair of true wireless earbuds called the OnePlus Buds Z.Since the OnePlus B...

Google had been shifting focus away from the hamburger menu in its most recent app updates.What you need to knowGoogle today rolled out a new update to the Google Pay app.This new update simplifies the interface and puts a fresh focus on the hamburger menu.It's triggered server-side, so it should be enabled automatically.Google is rolling out a new update to the Google Pay app on Android that redesigns the mobile payments app. The new design strips the app of its lower bottom tab menu and moves all options to the hamburger menu (yes, Google's shifting a focus on that after shifting away from hamburgers for the past few years.)A prompt in the app notes that this design will make it easier to access all your saved cards and passes, and it does fulfil that promise. You can now see all your cards and loyalty passes in one main screen, rather than having cards front and center and everything else tucked away. Google has also added a new floating action button (FAB), letting ...

The GoPro Hero9 Black 5K action camera comes with a one-year subscription to GoPro and is on sale for $349.98 total right now. This deal comes through the GoPro website and saves you about $150. The Hero9 action cam itself goes for $450 brand new, and you can see it going for that price at most retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. Plus, the GoPro subscription by itself is $50 a year or as much as $60 if you pay monthly. So you're definitely saving money off the base price of the camera and getting some extras essentially for free.The GoPro Hero9 Black just launched! So it's pretty crazy that we're seeing such a good deal on it already. This action camera has some amazing technology built into its tiny form, and it makes huge improvements over the previous generations. The Hero9 uses a brand new 23.6MP sensor. You'll be able to take pictures that are lifelike, sharp, and fluid. You can shoot video in resolutions up to 5K, which is the highest ever for a GoPro. Even if you don't go th...

Have you ever considered buying an old house, renovating it and then flipping it for a profit? If so, HGTV's Flipping 101 just might be for you and we have all the details on how you can watch the second season of house-flipping expert Tarek El Moussa's reality TV show online or on TV.Long-time fans of HGTV will likely recognize Tarek from the network's Flip or Flop which he stars in alongside his ex-wife and business partner Christina Anstead. Tarek has successfully flipped hundreds of houses over the years and in his solo show, he mentors real estate novices to help them learn the secrets of a successful flip.Season 1 of the show was watched by more than 17 million viewers and because of this, HGTV decided to renew Flipping 101 for a second season. The new season of the show will feature an additional two episodes for a total of twelve and the length of each episode has been extended to a full hour. If you want to learn even more about Tarek, you're in luck as HGTV also has its...

The best phone stands for Zoom & Google Meet video meetings, and calls will be able to support your smartphone at various angles, let you place the phone in vertical or horizontal position, and offer stable and secure support while also not scratching the precious device. They would also be compact and able to accommodate multiple phones so you can share with others and still use the same stand when you upgrade your device.Simple and affordableNulaxy A4 Cell Phone StandStaff pickThis adjustable cradle dock can accommodate a wide range of phones, from 4" small up to 10" tablets, and is fully collapsible to pop into your bag or briefcase. Made of aluminum, it stays in place and has rubber pads to protect from scratching or sliding. You can even put a phone on it with a case for a total thickness of 19mm.$13 at Amazon$22 at WalmartLoad it upOMOTON C2 Aluminum Desktop Phone HolderMade of rigid aluminum that is anti-scratch and anti-slip, this adjustable angle ho...

Sony please just stop putting your foot in your mouth for two seconds, I'm begging.What you need to knowPS5 preorders went live yesterday and it was a mess.Sony's Jim Ryan has said that the company isn't looking to put $100 games into subscription services.This is in direct contrast to Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass ideology.After the inexcusable mess that followed PS5 preorders last night, Sony apparently decided that wasn't enough. PlayStation CEO Jim Ryan has now said that the company isn't planning to release "$100 million" games into subscription services, exactly what Microsoft does with Xbox Game Pass.Ryan told GamesIndustry.biz that PlayStation does not plan to follow Xbox's approach with a similar offering. Xbox Game Studios games currently release into Xbox Game Pass the day they launch at retailers. For us, having a catalogue of games is not something that defines a platform. Our pitch, as you've heard, is 'new games, great games.' We have had this conversation...

Educational Insights' Artie 3000 The Coding Robot STEM toy for kids has dropped in price to $42.99 on Amazon. The Artie 3000 normally sells for around $55, and it was selling as high as $70 at the beginning of the year. Today's drop is the first one we've seen since February, which means it's a great time to act if you're looking for a STEM toy. The robot has never sold for less than $41 on Amazon before, either, so today's deal is as low as it gets.Coding and learning to use computers is about as core a learning experience for kids these days as anything else. Get your kid started off right with a STEM toy like Artie 3000 that teaches coding in a fun way. With Artie 3000, you'll design the code and the robot will draw the lines. There are pre-programmed designs so beginners can start learning right away.Artie 3000 does require a tablet, phone, or computer that it obviously doesn't come with. You will use this device to control the toy and work with the designs and programs. It h...

One of the best Android tablets deserves only the best Galaxy Tab S7+ cases. The tablet has the ability to act as a normal tablet or as a full-fledged computer with multi-window app support when you need to get things done. Whether you want a folio, a keyboard cover, or just something to guard the back from scratches, these are the best cases to be bought right now.Ruggedly handsomeSpigen Tough ArmorSpigen is a brand we've trusted with our Samsung phones for the better part of a decade, and for a tablet as big and heavy as the Tab S7+, you're going to want something durable and long-lasting. The kickstand here is also nice and wide.$27 at AmazonValue pickNeepanda Slim Tri-Fold Smart CaseWant the classic folio style for the S7+ without breaking the bank? Neepanda has you covered with this tri-fold case that lets you prop up your S7+. It also keeps the S Pen stowed securely on the back so it can stay topped up.From $10 at AmazonLaptop experienceSamsung Book Cove...

Another look at this Gothic remade world.What you need to knowNew screenshots of Demon's Souls for PS5 have been released.These screenshots show redone environments and bosses alike.Demon's Souls for PS5 is a PS5 launch title, set to release on November 12.While we got to see a new gameplay trailer for the Demon's Souls PS5 remake yesterday during the PS5 games showcase, Bluepoint Games and Sony Japan Studios have also released a handful of new screenshots. These show the improved lighting and textures of this remake, as well as showing off the terrifying Armored Spider boss. You can see the screenshots in the gallery below. While there was some confusion about a possible PC version due to an image included in the gameplay trailer yesterday, Sony has confirmed that Demon's Souls is only launching on the PS5. There are many Sony first-party games previously stated to be PS5 exclusive that are coming to PS4 such as Horizon Forbidden West however, Demon's Souls does not...

After a ten-day delay, Pixel phones in India are getting the Android 11 update.Update, September 17 (9:15 am ET): The Android 11 update is finally rolling out to Pixel phones in India.What you need to knowThe Android 11 OTA and factory images contain a note saying the build is available for "all carriers except IN."Pixel users in India haven't received the Android 11 update so far on any eligible Pixel device, including the Pixel 2, 2 XL, 3, 3XL, 3a and 3a XL.In a statement, Google has confirmed that the OTA update will start rolling out from next week. The Android 11 stable update is now available for all Pixels, but oddly enough, the OTA update isn't available in India at this moment. Google's OTA images page has download links for the Android 11 stable builds for all Pixels, and the version notes suggest the build is available for "all carriers except IN."The Android 11 build for the Pixel 4a has exclusions for EMEA, Singapore, and India as the phone isn't available ...

And it's got a snazzy new cloth top, as well.What you need to knowThe Roomba i3 and Roomba i3+ are the latest robot vacuums from iRobot with self-emptying capability.The Roomba i3 ships for $399 without a clean base, while the Roomba i3+ ships for $599 with a clean base.Both vacuums feature a stronger suction motor, a new cloth top, intelligent navigation, and iRobot Genius AI.Up until now, self-emptying robot vacuums have been pretty darn expensive. iRobot aims to change all that with the introduction of the Roomba i3 and Roomba i3+, the company's first self-emptying robot vacuums that retail for under $600. Previously, the least expensive self-emptying robot vacuum you could get from the company was the Roomba i7+, which ships for $799 with the clean base required for the self-emptying process. iRobot will be offering the Roomba i3 by itself for $399, while the Roomba i3+ comes with the clean base for $599.Customers can choose to pick up the Roomba i3 by itself and save...

Lots of good ideas with a mixed execution.It's been a running joke for me that almost all of the virtual press briefings I've had this year have been hosted by Motorola. It feels like every other week I get an invite to check out a new product the company's coming out with, and that's fully evident with just how many phones it's released so far in 2020. Looking at just the U.S. alone, we've had eight new Moto devices unveiled this year.One of those devices is the Motorola One 5G, which is launching as Motorola's most affordable 5G handset for North America. At first glance, the phone looks like one of the best values of the year — offering a 90Hz display and the Snapdragon 765 processor for just $445.There are certain aspects of the Motorola One 5G that Moto absolutely nailed, but when you factor in its various shortcomings and the fierce competition it's currently faced with, that initial feeling of an unrivaled value starts to dwindle. It's not a bad phone by any means, but...

You can also switch between "Alexa" and "Hey, Samuel" wake words interchangeably without changing any settings.What you need to knowAmazon has made it easier for you to access the Samuel L. Jackson Alexa skill with a dedicated wake word – "Hey, Samuel."Amazon has also updated the skill with more than 30,000 new phrases, including five times the explicit content.The actor's voice skill was launched on Alexa in December last year.In December last year, Amazon added Samuel L. Jackson's voice as a skill for its Alexa voice assistant. The retail giant is now making it easier for users to access the actor's voice by introducing a custom wake word. You can now have Jackson reply to your questions by simply saying, "Hey, Samuel."The new custom wake word works on most Echo devices, except the first-gen Echo, Echo Dot, and Echo Look. If you have one of the first-gen Echo devices, you can invoke Jackson's voice by using "Alexa, ask Samuel" instead.Aside from the new custom wake...

What the hell was that nonsense?If you took Sony at its word and went to sleep yesterday hoping to preorder a PS5 in the morning, you likely woke up disappointed today. After announcing — not during its PS5 showcase, mind you, with all eyes watching, but on Twitter after the fact — that preorders for the PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition would go on sale on Thursday, September 17, retailers decided to say "screw that" and put them up for preorder immediately. In nearly the same instant, initial stock vanished.Remember when PlayStation worldwide marketing head Eric Lempel indicated that Sony would give players plenty of advance notice before the PS5 went up for preorder? Specifically, he said, "it's not going to happen with a minute's notice" and seemingly scoffed at that very idea. In fact, here it is directly from his mouth:When will #ps5 pre-orders start? PlayStation worldwide marketing head Eric Lempel says they will give gamers plenty of advance notice. #SummerGameFest pic.tw...

We finally have the final piece of the puzzle for Sony's newest generation of gaming console. The PlayStation 5 has announced its pricing and release date! Hopefully you've been saving your pennies because it's going to set you back a few. Whether you choose the regular PlayStation 5 for $499 or go with the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition for $100 cheaper, you can pre-order your device now to get it as soon as possible.You'll also be able to order a lot of the new accessories like the DuelSense controller, the new Pulse 3D wireless headset, and more. Plus, you'll want to reserve your favorite video games, especially those upcoming PS5 exclusives like Spider-Man: Miles Morales or the remastered Demon's Souls.Best PlayStation 5 Pre-order DealsBest PlayStation 5 pre-order dealsMore Info: How can I get my pre-order in?Best BuyYou can check out the individual pages for the PlayStation 5 and the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition but both currently say "Coming Soon." You can pr...

Having a chat with the AC forums.Thanks to the rise of folding phones, the smartphone market is getting weird and interesting again. Companies are trying out all-new form factors and designs to try and push the market forward, with one of those devices being the Microsoft Surface Duo.The Surface Duo has some of the most impressive hardware on the market, and thanks to its two-screen design, it lends itself perfectly to unique multitasking capabilities. Unfortunately, a slew of software bugs have made the phone a difficult recommendation.A few of our AC forum members have been talking about the phone, with some of their comments reading as follows: pj737 09-11-2020 03:49 AM “ Just wanted to say my experience using the surface duo has been utterly horrible. The phone is plagued with bugs. It lags, it freezes, it jitters, it flashes (seizure risk for some, not even kidding). If it weren't for ...

The best professionally installed home security systems take away the uncertainty that comes with installing a system yourself. Are there any blind spots, or improperly installed sensors, or other problems you wouldn't think to check? Have these professionals come to your home and give you the certainty that you're paying for quality protection. Home security systems like Vivint offer reliable monitoring, home automation, smart home integration, and threat response you need to feel secure at home.Best Overall: Vivint Home Security SystemA staple of professionally installed home security systems is the multi-year contract. In exchange for a professional consultation and installation, you must consent to pay for professional monitoring for years, on top of the leasing cost for equipment. Vivint gives you the option to pay upfront for equipment and pay month-to-month for monitoring, allowing you to cancel the service anytime and self-monitor with the equipment you own — making i...

With its high price tag and nearly all-glass construction, you're going to want to get one of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 cases around. Even with its unique form factor and build, there are still some ways to add some protection to your device. Though the list for cases available right now is short, it will expand as manufacturers have more time to get products ready. Here are the best cases available right now.Best of both worldsSpigen Ultra HybridStaff pickThe Spigen Ultra Hybrid case brings two fantastic features together. It provides all-around protection without being too thick. By utilizing a dual-layer system with a hard outer shell surrounding a shock-absorbing TPU inner layer, the case offers great protection for your phone's front and back. There are also raised bezels that help to keep the screen and camera up off of surfaces.$40 at AmazonLuxury on luxurySamsung Leather CaseThe Galaxy Z Fold 2 is a device with a luxurious price tag and feel, ...

Google's already halfway to the ultimate digital bundle, so what are they waiting for?While the new Apple Watches and iPads Apple unveiled during its livestream this week are shiny and colorful, they're not the most important products to come out of the event. That honor belongs to Apple One Apple's new bundle which brings you all of Apple's premium services — Apple Music, Apple TV+, iCloud storage, Apple Arcade, Apple News+, and the new Apple Fitness+ — for one monthly rate.TV+, News+, Arcade, and Fitness+ all launched in the last year, and it honestly makes a lot of sense to bundle them with iCloud and Apple Music for those who are fully in the Apple ecosystem and want to get all Apple offers without having to deal with six separate subscriptions. And as someone who is juggling a couple of different subscriptions for Google services, I can only hope that Google decides to do this bigger and better than Apple, especially considering that Google's digital bundle has been arou...

Delayed for two months thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, the world's most famous bike race is now ready to finally hit the road. Read on to find out how to watch the Tour de France 2020, no matter where in the world you are.The rescheduled 2020 Tour de France will begin on Saturday August 29th in Nice and reach its conclusion in Paris on Sunday September 20th with its iconic final stage laps around the Champs-Élysées. Covering a punishing 2,156-miles, the annual 21-stage race is now in its 107th edition with this year's installment marking the first time since the end of World War II that the race has not started in July.The Covid-19 delayed event will this year feature 12 new sites and stage cities with 176 elite riders from 22 teams expected to contend for the biggest prize in cycling. Famous for high-speed descents, and unforgiving climbs, one familiar recent feature of the race which won't be in evidence is the sight of Britain's cycling empire.Previous yellow jersey ...

Woot is currently offering Blink XT home security cameras with prices from just $30. Following the announcement of its new line of Blink XT2 cameras, Amazon discontinued the original Blink XT line which means sales like this are the only way to pick up the 1st-gen devices these days. Blink XT cameras are highly-rated by existing owners, so just because the new version has caused the previous-gen to drop in price, it doesn't mean you should be put off. In fact, the Blink XT and XT2 use the same sync module hub so you can mix and match the two generations.Blink XT security cameras have motion detection, up to 1080p instant recording, and smart notifications. You can check on your home in real-time from anywhere using the Blink app and Blink also offers free cloud storage for recorded video clips so you don't have to pay for a monthly subscription. They are super simple to set up and run wirelessly for two years on two included Lithium batteries. They are also weather-resistant so you...

If you've ever wondered what happens to passenger planes that mysteriously disappear over the ocean, then Peacock's new original series Departure just might be for you and we have all the details on how you can watch the new limited series for free online.Departure is a British/Canadian suspense drama commissioned by the Canadian broadcaster Global. NBCUniversal pre-bought broadcast rights for the series in the UK and it aired on Universal TV last summer. However, in July of this year, NBC's new streaming service Peacock acquired the rights to the series in the US and all six episodes will be available to watch there for free.The limited series tells the story of passenger plane Flight 716 that suddenly vanishes over the Atlantic Ocean. TSIB investigator Kendra Malley, played by Archie Panjabi from The Good Wife, is called in to lead the investigation into the flight's disappearance alongside her mentor Howard Lawson, played by Christopher Plummer from Knives Out. However, battli...

You need a 30VA transformer so your Ring Video Doorbell Pro will work properly, and the one in your house right now might not be strong enough.One of the great deals coming up for Amazon Prime Day this year will be a Ring Video Doorbell Pro and as someone who has one, let me tell you it's pretty awesome. Seeing who is at the front door can be pretty handy, especially when you're not at home to peek out of the curtains and have a look. But the fun will be short-lived if you don't have an existing door chime transformer strong enough to power the thing. Even if you already have a doorbell, your transformer might not provide enough power for a Ring Pro.There's a good chance you have a chime transformer in your house already, especially if you currently have a doorbell. It's a small metal electrical device that converts your house voltage to the low-voltage a doorbell chime needs and you wouldn't even know it was there unless you needed to replace it. Since most door chimes don'...

The Galaxy S20 FE will have a lot in common with the standard Galaxy S20.What you need to knowSamsung's product page for the Galaxy S20 FE 5G has leaked online.The latest leak confirms the 5G variant of the phone will feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 865 processor and a 120Hz screen.Samsung Galaxy S20 FE will be announced at the company's upcoming Unpacked event on September 23.Samsung announced earlier this week that it will be holding an Unpacked event on September 23 to unveil the Galaxy S20 FE. Ahead of its formal unveiling next week, tipster Evan Blass has posted the Galaxy S20 FE 5G product page on his Patreon page. The product page confirms the specs of the upcoming phone, along with all the key features.As previous leaks had revealed, the Galaxy S20 FE will sport a 6.5-inch Infinity-O display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a tiny centered hole-punch cutout for the 32MP selfie camera. The 5G variant of the phone will have a Snapdragon 865 chipset under the hood, paire...

The Kardashian family may have announced that their long running reality TV series will be coming to end in 2021 but thankfully there will be plenty of new episodes before then. Keeping Up With Kardashians (KUWTK) is back for its 19th season and we have all the details on how you can watch California's most famous family online or on TV.Whether you're a long-time fan or haven't even watched the show, you've probably heard about the drama and antics of the Kardashian family. Back in 2007, Kourtney, Kim and Khloé Kardashian along with their half-sisters Kendall and Kylie Jenner first appeared in their own reality TV show. The show, which was developed by executive producer Ryan Seacrest, has kept fans of the family entertained for years now and season 19 looks to be packed with the drama and conflict you've come to expect from the Kardashians.While the last season of KUWTK aired during the pandemic, many of the episodes in season 19 were actually shot during it. This means we'll g...

One of the things we always have with us is our phone, so it makes sense to combine that with the best wallet case for the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 to cut down on stuff to carry. Being able to leave your wallet behind while still keeping the necessary cards with you can be freeing. So take a look at these wallet cases to take the first step towards pocket liberation.Durable walletSpigen Slim Armor CSStaff pickSpigen is one of the best-known case makers for phones, and this case combines its very popular Slim Armor line with a wallet. As the name states, this case is durable, and unlike most heavy-duty cases, is also quite slim. The door on the back of the case slides open for storage of up to two cards. While it isn't going to replace your entire wallet, it will let you keep your essential cards handy.$15 at AmazonClassic leatherFYY Leather RFID-Blocking WalletThis leather case from FYY is a folio-style case that covers the back and flap to protect the front w...

Just like the Xperia 1 II, the Xperia 5 II has an extra-tall 21:9 aspect ratio.What you need to knowSony Xperia 5 II is the company's first phone with a 120Hz screen.It is powered by a Snapdragon 865 chipset and has a 12MP triple-camera array on the back.The Xperia 5 II will be released in the U.S. in December for $950.Sony today unveiled the Xperia 5 II, a follow-up to last year's Xperia 5. Just like its predecessor, the Xperia 5 II is a relatively compact phone, featuring a 6.1-inch display. In terms of hardware, the phone is fairly similar to the Xperia 1 II that Sony introduced earlier this year.Unlike the Xperia 1 II, however, the Xperia 5 II's super-tall 6.1-inch FHD+ panel boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and a touch sampling rate of 240Hz. The compact flagship phone is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 865 processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB storage.The Xperia 5 II has a triple-camera array at the rear, featuring a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide ...

LG's Explorer Project kicks off with a dual-screen swiveling smartphoneLG hasn't shied away from weird form factors over the years. If you're an Android veteran, you might remember the "self-healing" G Flex 2, or the modular LG G5 phone. More recently, the company has rediscovered its experimental streak, with dual-screeners like the Velvet and V60.And now we have the new LG Explorer Project, designed to showcase unconventional and wacky new designs. The first of those is the just-launched LG Wing, a dual-screen phone with a secondary rotating display, built upon the hardware foundations of the Velvet.It's an unusual concept for sure, and LG's recent launch event showed off plenty of unique use cases for this kind of dual-display device: everything from watching YouTube while doomscrolling through Twitter, to custom gaming setups, and even a miniature virtual trackpad.We'll be publishing an initial hands-on review of the LG Wing soon. But for now, we wanted to offer some firs...

Sadly, the update doesn't resolve the general connectivity issues affecting the true wireless earbuds.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out a new firmware update for the Pixel Buds.The latest firmware update v552 brings a fix for audio cutouts every 1 minute 50 seconds of audio playback experienced by some users.It, however, does not fix the random cutouts that many Pixel Buds owners are experiencing. Google rolled out the first feature drop for the second-generation Pixel Buds last month, making one of the best true wireless earbuds on the market even better. The update added quite a few new features, including sharing detection, bass boost, and transcribe mode. The Pixel Buds are now receiving a new firmware update to fix an audio cutout issue reported by some owners.A small number of Pixel Buds had reported that their Pixel Buds were cutting out after every 1 minute 50 seconds of audio playback. Google has identified the bug causing the issue and is rolling out a ...

Big Brother returns in its 20th year on the air for a special All-Stars season that's bringing back some of the show's best houseguests ever. While most seasons of the show feature a cast of new players all vying to win half a million dollars, the All-Star format sees fan-favorite cast members from previous seasons return to the show for another try at winning the grand prize.This season has differed from most in more than just the All-Stars aspect. This time around, the cast had to be quarantined for two weeks before the show and undergo testing for coronavirus to ensure they were all virus-free before entering the house. At least one cast member was cut due to a positive test result, and on premiere night, the guests entered the Big Brother house while wearing face masks. The crew behind-the-scenes have been tested and quarantined as well.Though the cast wasn't revealed until premiere night, we now know the All-Stars houseguests include Janelle Pierzina, Da'Vonne Rogers, Ian Terr...

Budget friendlyOculus Quest 2 64GB$299 at AmazonProsCheaperHas enough storage for a lot of usersSupports all the same features as larger variantSupports all the same games as larger variantConsNot enough storage for hardcore gamersNo microSD slot for expandable storageThe 64GB variant of the Oculus Quest 2 supports all the same features and games as the version with larger storage. It has enough space for many users but will fill up if you're a hardcore gamer. Its lack of a microSD slot makes storage limitations a more significant issue.Extra roomOculus Quest 2 256GB$399 at AmazonProsLots of room for gamesMore affordable than the competitionConsSignificantly more expensive No microSD slotThis version of the Oculus Quest 2 sports 256GB of storage, which is more than enough for multiple games and lots of media to enjoy, though it still doesn't have a microSD slot.Both versions of the Oculus Quest 2 support the same exact featu...

Microsoft singled out OxygenOS as being ineligible for xCloud, but OnePlus has confirmed that the game streaming service works on its phones.Update, September 16 (10:30pm ET): OnePlus has confirmed in a statement that its phones can run Xbox Game Pass (xCloud) without any issues.What you need to knowMicrosoft's xCloud isn't supporting alternate, emulated, or modified forms of Android.This means you won't be able to use it on FireOS, Chrome OS, or even Android TV.It also singles out OxygenOS, the software that OnePlus uses for its Android phones, as an unsupported version.Microsoft today has made it Xbox Game Pass (xCloud) available for Android users in 22 countries. In brief: it's a cool service that allows you to play some Xbox games like Halo or Gears 5 on your smartphones without needing to use your Xbox. It's all powered by the Microsoft's servers, and all you'll need is a modern Android phone or tablet, but there's a small catch. Not all Android users will be able to...