Latest from Android Central

A controversial change that originally was slated for Android 10 becomes mandatory for all new apps in August 2020 and every app targeting Android 11.When Android 10 was still in its early beta days, Google had plans for a big change in the way that apps could access the files and folders in your phone's external storage (things like photos that you or other apps placed in the /data/media folder, not the SD card present in many Android models).This change was known as Scoped Storage, and its purpose was to kill the abuse of the READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE permissions that so many apps and developers like to request.These changes were originally slated to apply to every app on a phone running Android 10 or later, but because of developer backlash Google changed course and only required the use of Scoped Storage for apps that target Android API level 29, which is Android 10. But with Android 11 Scoped Storage is back, and Google isn't likely to change its mind this time.Top 10 featur...

The last thing you want to do while your hands are dirty with food or wet from washing dishes is to tap a button on your smart speaker. When entertaining, don't you find that so many parties congregate in the kitchen? Smart kitchen products are pretty standard nowadays, but most useful, in particular, are those you can control by voice. They help simplify things when you're multitasking and make for a super-cool kitchen that will be the envy of all your friends and family. Here are some of the best kitchen products with Alexa to make your life a little easier.Versatile multicookerInstant Pot Smart WiFi MulticookerStaff pickThe best multicooker you can get is the Instant Pot, and this smart version allows you to remotely control it from a smartphone app as well as by voice using Alexa and a compatible smart speaker. Control what you're cooking, receive status alerts on your phone, and access more than a thousand pre-programmed recipes.$130 at Amazon$150 at Best Buy$130 a...

It's time to save more with the WD My Passport 5TB portable hard drive. Right now this external hard drive is on sale for just $99.99 on Amazon. The My Passport lineup was updated late last year with the previous version long having been considered one of the best values in portable drives, and this new version has lived up to the reputation. However, since releasing last October there have not been a lot of sales at this level. The drive dropped to today's price a couple of times last year and did go a tad lower very briefly for Black Friday. It retails for $150 and averages around $115 so you're getting a good deal no matter how you look at it. You can also get this deal at Best Buy.The WD My Passport hard drive is a super portable and very convenient drive to keep around. It has a ton of space with that 5TB drive so you can keep all your favorite downloads. Whether that means software, music, movies, or whatever else, you can keep it close by at all times. Just shove the drive i...

The inner workings of Surface Duo are revealed in this video from CNET, along with thoughts from Panos Panay.What you need to knowA new video shows Surface Duo's internal hardware.Interviews with Panos Panay and his team talk about the ideas behind Surface Duo.See a working model of how the hinge works and Surface Duo in action.Microsoft's Surface Duo is garnering a lot of interest from the tech community, if only because it is a breath of fresh air compared to the cycle release of current smartphones. Conceived nearly five years ago, it has been a long road for Surface Due to finally land in customer's hands early next month.CNET managed to get a non-working Surface Duo prototype from Microsoft that reveals all the dual-screen Android devices' inner workings. The prop is a 1:1 to replica of Surface Duo, including all the Corning Gorilla Glass (both sides), and those captivating working hinges.But the real charm comes from seeing the inside of Surface Duo, including a...

Star Wars: Tales From The Galaxy's Edge is the next VR-only Star Wars game from acclaimed developer ILMxLAB. As another Oculus-exclusive title, it's quickly becoming apparent that Oculus is the platform of choice when it comes to Star Wars VR titles. While Vader Immortal is seeing a release on PSVR in late August 2020, Star Wars: Tales From The Galaxy's Edge has only been announced as an Oculus Quest exclusive game. That means even Oculus Rift players won't get to experience the game.Oculus Studios and ILMxLAB have partnered with the same folks who crafted the Smuggler's Run attraction at Disneyworld and Disneyland's Galaxy's Edge theme park. The goal is to create a virtual reality game that matches the experience you can have at the theme park, albeit with more action, interactivity, and aliens than you'll find at a theme park.Jump to:Setting and TimelineStory and CharactersGameplay and GraphicsRelease Date and PlatformsTie-in with the Disney Galaxy's Edge theme park...

A place in the Europa League final is up for grabs as Italian giants Internazionale take on Ukrainian Premier League champions Shakhtar Donetsk. Read on to find out how to watch this crucial match between Inter Milan vs Shakhtar Donetsk, no matter where in the world you are.The rejigged format of this Coronavirus-delayed tournament means tonight's match is a one-off game played at the neutral venue Fortuna Düsseldorf's Merkur Spiel-Arena, with the spoils for the winner a Europa League final clash against Sevilla.Inter go into tonight's game as the favorites. The three-time Europa League winning side saw off stiff competition from Bayern Leverkusen in their quarter-final clash with two first-half goals proving to be enough in their 2-1 victory. Tonight's encounter will be the Nerazzurri's 17th game in just over two months thanks to the condensed 2019/20 Serie A calendar and Antonio Conte's side did show some signs of fatigue un the later stages of their last outing.On the other...

In public spaces, there is always a risk of touching a surface that is infected with nasty germs. Your best protection? Don't touch anything with your bare hands. Made from antiviral and antibacterial fabric, the Snapback Glove provides all the protection you need. Right now, it's 24% off MSRP at $28.Normally speaking, you probably wouldn't think twice about opening a door or operating an ATM. But with a dangerous virus on the loose, minimizing your contact with shared surfaces is a smart move.With the Snapback Glove, you don't have to touch anything. This accessory is designed to hang from your belt for quick access. When you need to open a door or sign a receipt, you simply slip the glove over your hand.The unique shape means you can put on the Snapback Glove without using your other hand. Once you're done, the retractable attachment pulls the glove back to your belt. Being made from 70% silver fibers, the fabric kills any germs you pick up.It normally retails for $37, but yo...

Smart assistants like Amazon Alexa are becoming more popular than ever, and headphone makers are jumping on board to offer it as a built-in signature feature. They're growing in number and variance, but the Sony WH-1000XM4 stand out because of the combination of comfort, sound quality, and versatility in bringing Alexa into the fold. We have plenty of options for all ranges, so here are our picks for the best headphones with Alexa.Best Headphones with Alexa Overall: Sony WH-1000XM4It's a challenge for any company to follow up on a great product with something better, but in this case, Sony has fixed some key pieces to make the WH-1000XM4 one of the best pairs of headphones available. There was no need to reinvent the wheel when so much of the previous model worked so well, though good changes are always welcome.Whether the WH-1000XM4 sound any better is highly subjective. There is aptX HD and LDAC codec support, plus 360 Reality Audio for the ones who can actually hear it on ...

What you need to knowTurtle Beach has revealed the sequels to their popular Stealth 600 and 700 wireless gaming headsets.The new headsets promise increased durability, comfort, battery life, and superior audio quality to their predecessors.The headsets work with current generation consoles, but are also compatible with the upcoming next-gen consoles.The Playstation Stealth 600 will be available starting August 16, with the other headsets following on September 20.Turtle Beach announced a handful of brand-new wireless gaming headsets todays, including follow-ups to their popular Stealth 600 and Stealth 700 headsets. The new headsets feature a larger, flip-to-mute microphones, a more durable construction, and the promise of better sounding audio, and they'll land at the same starting price as their already great predeccessors.The Stealth 600 Gen 2 has refined audio, reinforced hinges and headband, and a new flip-to-mute mic, while the Stealth 700 ups the ante considerably wi...

It wasn't too long ago that we named the OnePlus 7T "the best of Android for under $600", but thanks to a one-day-only sale at B&H right now, it's becoming the best of Android for less than $400. B&H has the unlocked OnePlus 7T on sale today for only $399.99. You'll even score free shipping with the purchase.This unlocked smartphone is suitable for use on GSM networks such as T-Mobile and AT&T. It's not intended to be used on CDMA networks like Verizon.The OnePlus 7T is equipped with a large 6.55-inch display and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 955+ octa-core processor. Along with 8GB RAM, it offers 128GB storage capacity and a sizeable 3800mAh battery to keep it powered all day long without needing to charge it. While it doesn't feature wireless charging capability, it does include the ability to fast charge at up to 30W. Along with running Android 10, this device runs OxygenOS 10 — a modified version of Android made just for OnePlus devices.Today's sale at B&H is comi...

Power banks are wonderful tools that can help keep your lifeline - i.e. smartphone - from turning into a portable paperweight while you're trying to survive just another ridiculously long day. But buying one you can trust shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. These are some great power banks that won't break your bank... account.Portable powerhouseAukey 10,000mAh Battery PackStaff pickThis pack is phone-sized for charging on the go. In addition to 18W Power Delivery charging, it has a QC 3.0 port and a second USB-A port for charging a third device.$30 at AmazonUltra pocketableAnker PowerCore Slim 10000Slim and lightweight, this charger is perfect to take with you anywhere and uses Anker's PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technologies to ensure a fast and efficient charge.$20 at Amazon$36 at B&H PhotoPretty pocket powerXcentz USB-C Power Bank 5000 PDThis bank is affordable, reliable, and frankly adorable with its candy-bar size and cute pastel colors. The 5,000mA...

Die, die, and die again.It's not Dishonored 3 or Prey 2, but a new IP is always welcome. On Bethesda's stage at E3 2019, Arkane Studios introduced Deathloop to the world. It looks awesome and trippy in all the right ways, and we can't wait to get our hands on it when it releases for PS5 and PC.Jump to:What is Deathloop?Developed by Arkane StudiosDeathloop gameplayDeathloop story & charactersMultiplayer or single-player?Release date and platformsWhat is Deathloop?Deathloop is a new IP developed by Arkane Studios. According to the studio, it will be a 1st-person action game that follows two assassins on an island who are hunting each other down. As the name suggests, our two characters appear to be stuck in a time loop, much like the movie Edge of Tomorrow — or Live. Die. Repeat., as the film was retroactively named.Deathloop Developed by Arkane StudiosIf you're unfamiliar with the name Arkane Studios, you may be familiar with their work. Arkane creat...

If you're anything like me, then sometimes you absolutely love to get the pants scared off of you with a good horror game. Unfortunately, not all horror games are created equal. There are loads of games which intend to give you the creeps but fall way short of the target. If you want some of the best scares available on the PS4 then you'll want to check some of these titles out.★ Featured favoriteResident Evil 2Resident Evil fans have had a few good years. Resident Evil 7 was a killer return to form that had me feeling equal parts excitement and terror. As if that weren't enough, Resident Evil 2 is an amazing remake of the beloved classic with some new elements mixed in. If you want some great scares and awesome gameplay I suggest picking it up.$25 at Amazon $30 at Best Buy $40 at PlayStationHorrific choicesUntil DawnStaff PickUntil Dawn isn't a perfect game, but it's one of the best and most fun horror games out there. Supermassive Games did a great...

Speaking as a passionate mobile gamer, the pain points I deal with most often involve bad controls, a dying battery, bad audio, and the lack of enough internal storage. With cloud-based streaming platforms on the rise, having the right Android gaming accessories on hand can make or break a gaming session. We've rounded up the best controllers, battery packs, and headphones that you should consider if you want to step your game up.One size fits mostRazer KishiStaff pickBuilt to slot in almost any Android phone with a center USB-C port, the Kishi runs off your phone battery and supports passthrough charging. Unlike most Bluetooth controllers, you'll never have to charge it, it collapses into a convenient travel size, input lag is never a problem, and it's less conspicuous than a gaming-clip controller when playing on the go.$80 at Amazon$80 at Best BuyBuilt for phones, tablets and PCSteelSeries Stratus DuoThe Stratus Duo uses Bluetooth to sync with Android and a Wi...

Most power banks will only charge your devices if you remember to bring a charging cable. In contrast, the ChargeHubGO+ All-in-One Power Bank has two cables and a wireless charging pad built-in. It's a great option for traveling light, and you can get it now for $29.99 when you use code LIMITLESS25 for 25% off.https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ppub__y9_tMCarrying a small back-up battery in your pocket isn't a problem. But add multiple cables for your various devices, and the setup doesn't seem so pocket-friendly after all.You won't face such problems with ChargeHubGO+. Measuring just 0.75 inches thick, this versatile power bank can handle Lightning, micro-USB, and Type-C devices without help. One side of the case doubles as a 5W wireless charging pad, and you get a USB port for good measure.Thanks to SmartSpeed technology, ChargeHubGO+ can handle up to 15W total output. The power bank has a generous capacity of 5,000mAh, and the product has passed stringent safety and durability...

Just as it did last year with Watchmen, HBO's new original series Lovecraft Country will give viewers a much different look at America's past and the struggles faced by African Americans during segregation. The new series is set in the mid-1950s and will follow Atticus Freeman (played by Jonathan Majors) as he travels across the country searching for his father Montrose after returning home from the Korean War.Fantasy fiction-loving Atticus begins his journey in the Jim Crow South and then travels to his hometown in the south side of Chicago where he recruits his uncle George (played by Courtney B. Vance) and his childhood friend Letitia (played by Jurnee Smollett) to join him on his adventure. However, the group's search and rescue turns into a struggle to survive both the racist terrors of white America and a variety of different monstrous creatures that could be taken straight from an H.P. Lovecraft novel.If the name Lovecraft Country sounds familiar, that is because the new s...

A galaxy far, far away is coming to your living room again very soon.The recent Star Wars resurgence (thanks to Disney's acquisition of the franchise) and the new sequel trilogy of movies has caused an explosion in the number of Star Wars fans around the galaxy. Many of these newer fans didn't grow up on the original Star Wars, but this generation of younglings can still experience them in other ways. When a dated movie just doesn't cut it, video games can step in to help. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is aiming to do just that.And let's be honest. Adults love the LEGO video game series too.Jump to:What is LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga?Who is making it?Will it adapt other Star Wars movies?What can I expect from gameplay?Will it let you fly spacecraft?Is it a remake of the previous LEGO Star Wars?Is there anything else we should expect?The Holiday SpecialWhen does it release?All nine filmsLEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga$60 at AmazonA galaxy...

One of Amazon's daily deals includes the iRobot Roomba 891 smart robot vacuum cleaner on sale for $259.99. That's the lowest price we have ever seen for the Roomba 891. It beats out a deal we saw in February when it dropped to $280, which was its previous best price. The robot vacuum normally sells for around $380 and has even jumped as high as $450 since that February deal. Today's price is good only through the end of the day, so grab it while you can.The Roomba 891 uses a 3-stage system to clean wherever it goes. Those three stages are loosen, lift, and suction, and it's a system designed to work with dirt, dust, or even pet hair. The cleaning head can automatically adjust to the surface its on, adapting its height so the multi-surface brushes can engage directly with hard floors and carpet.The Dirt Detect sensors are unique to iRobot and can help the Roomba sense when there is a larger than normal concentration of dirt. This can be super helpful in the high-traffic areas of y...

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side's bid for Europa League glory continues tonight against the competition's most successful club. Read on to find out how to watch this crucial match between Sevilla vs Manchester United, no matter where in the world you are.The rejigged format of this Coronavirus-delayed tournament means tonight's match is a one-off game played at the neutral venue FC Köln's RheinEnergieSTADION, with the spoils for the winner a Europa League final clash between either Inter Milan or Shakhtar Donetsk.United's exceptional form throughout 2020 means they are now favorites to win this year's Europa League outright, though tonight's opponents will likely be their toughest test so far in this year's competition.Having breezed past LASK in the round of 16 stage, the Red Devils struggled against FC Copenhagen in their quarter-final clash. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men could not break down the Danish side in regular time with extra-time needed to find a victor. A Bruno Fernandes...

One of Sony's biggest franchises will indeed be making a full return on PS5. Here's what we know so far.Gran Turismo has been one of Sony's biggest franchises since the days of the very first PlayStation. The tagline, "the real driving simulator" has always cut straight to the core of what Gran Turismo is all about, and generally speaking has received much praise over the years.Jump to:When does it release?Resolution and frame rateWill it support PSVR?Fan favorite circuit returnsWhat cars will it include?What are its features?Will it be on PS4?Gran Turismo esports and Getty Images But it's also hard to believe that the PS4 has gone by entirely without a new, full Gran Turismo game. Gran Turismo 6 launched on the PS3, and while PS4 owners have at least had GT Sport, it's fair to say reaction has been mixed at times and it's not quite the same as a full sequel.Which is what we seem to be getting on the PS5. There's still a lot of of questions that need answers, b...

Round six of the Covid-19-delayed F1 season brings with it renewed hope for team Red Bull following Max Verstappen's surprise win at Silverstone last weekend.Verstappen's victory during Sunday's 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone showed that with some expert management of tyre conditions, Red Bull may yet be competitive against the seemingly unstoppable Mercedes.The young Dutch star will be looking to follow up his stellar performance with another win this weekend at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, however the slower-speed nature of the circuit is likely to suit Mercedes.Lewis Hamilton comes into the race with a 30-point championship lead and will be confident of extending it further having won the last three Spanish GP's.Nevertheless, the last person to beat Hamilton in Spain was Verstappen back in 2016. Following last weekend's heroics, you wouldn't count against the Red Bull star ending that run.Read on for full details on how to get a live stream of the 2020...

Stipe Miocic and Daniel Cormier will finally settle their long standing rivalry at UFC 252 in Las Vegas this weekend and we have all the details on how you can watch the highly anticipated Miocic vs Cormier III online or on TV in the U.S., Canada, UK and Australia.Miocic and Cormier first met in the octagon back in July of 2018 at UFC 226. At the time, Cormier was already the light heavyweight champion. However, he returned to the heavyweight division and delivered a first round knockout to Cormier to become a two-division UFC champion. Miocic vs Cormier II took place last year in August at UFC 241 but this time Miocic managed to gain the upper hand and regain the heavyweight title from Cormier with a fourth-round TKO.Regardless of who ends up winning Saturday's heavyweight title bout, this will be 41-year-old Cormier's last fight as he announced earlier this year that he'll retire from the sport and "ride off into the sunset" after UFC 252. UFC president Dana White has also said...

The very first annual Kerwin Frost Telethon Supershow takes place this weekend live from Los Angeles on a screen near you. Full of music performances, appearances by pop culture influencers, and even a live celebrity auction, the 12-hour event is dedicated to fundraising for the Know Your Rights Camp. Kerwin Frost is aiming to raise $5 million dollars during the benefit which will go towards the liberation and well-being of black and brown communities in several ways, including through youth daycamps, a legal defense fund, and also a pandemic relief fund.Among the performers and guest stars include Anderson.Paak, Asap Ferg, A-trak, Beck, DMC (of Run DMC), Jaden Smith, Kehlani, Lil Nas X, Lil Yachty, Mac Demarco, Major Lazer, Miguel, Yo Gabba Gabba, and more.Kerwin Frost Telethon Supershow: When and whereThe Kerwin Frost Telethon Supershow goes live on Sunday, August 16 at 12 p.m. EST / 9 a.m. PST. You'll be able to watch the benefit on a few different platforms, including via...

A land of epic sagas and myths awaits in this new world from Ubisoft.First revealed at E3 2019, Gods & Monsters is a new IP being developed by Ubisoft Quebec. Eschewing the real world setting of the Assassin's Creed games the studio has previously worked on, Gods & Monsters is set in a beautiful world where the Greek myths are true. Here's everything we know about Gods & Monsters.Myths come aliveGods & Monsters$60 at Amazon$60 at Best Buy$50 at WalmartExplore a world of monstersGods & Monsters promises an open world of mythic islands to explore, with gods to save, monsters to vanquish and ancient powers to learn. We can't wait to try it out for ourselves and become a legendary hero.Jump to:What is Gods & Monsters?Check out the gameplay and featuresIs it an open world game?Will it be enhanced for PS5?When is the release date?What is Gods & Monsters ?Gods & Monsters is an action-adventure game set in the world of a...

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

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 networkNo 5GRepublic 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 w...

Just as a workout makes your body strong, meditation can improve your mental health. FitMind is a highly-rated meditation training program that is backed by neuroscience — and you can get two years' access for just $49.https://www.youtube.com/embed/2xfzHwIZmYUThere are many proven benefits to meditation, from reducing stress to improving your ability to concentrate. However, not everyone has time to attend weekly classes.FitMind offers a more flexible schedule. This app helps you master meditation through a 30-day program that has been adopted by companies like Amazon and Uber, along with addiction clinics and schools.Each session works towards improving your mental state, and the app explains the science behind the techniques being taught. FitMind also sets you daily challenges, which help to make meditation a part of your lifestyle.Rated at 4.8 stars on the App Store, FitMind allows you to track your progress over time. In addition, the app lets you connect with a communit...

Hey baby, I hear the blues a-calling, tossed innards and scrambled blood. Mercy.Yeah, it's really happening. Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 was announced in early 2019 to the shock and delight of fans everywhere, many of whom believed that after 14 years, there was no way the cult classic Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines would get a sequel. While there's still a lot we don't know, we do know that this new game is being developed by Hardsuit Labs and published by Paradox Interactive.Originally scheduled to release in 2020, any fans, nocturnal or otherwise, will now be waiting until 2021 to see this story of darkness continue. Here's everything you need to know about Vampire: The Masquerade — Bloodlines 2.Seattle awaitsVampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2$60 at Amazon$60 at Best Buy$60 at WalmartWelcome to a dark new worldIt's really happening. Over a decade later, the beloved RPG is getting a sequel that promises to take all the elements playe...

How many photos do you have on your phone's camera roll that you've taken and forgotten about? We may always have a camera in our pockets, but digital photos have a tendency to disappear or simply live on a screen. With a Fujifilm Instax Mini 9, you can get back to physical photos with this instant camera which develops your photo in just a matter of seconds. Right now, BackMarket has select Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 instant cameras on sale in refurbished condition for just $44.99 each. You can choose between ice blue and pink models of this camera while supplies last.These cameras have been refurbished, meaning they're each tested and inspected to ensure they work as intended. Plus, BackMarket includes free shipping and a one-year warranty with today's purchase.These cameras are awesome — and that's not just us saying that. This model features a selfie mirror, which ensures that you'll get a good angle, as well as a macro lens adapter for close-up shots. Users can also enjoy High...

Best answer: Yes. One of the features that Sony has confirmed for the PS5 DualSense controller is USB-C charging. This means you'll be able to charge it much faster than the DualShock 4, which used the now-aging Micro-USB standard.A classic: PlayStation 4 DualShock 4 Jet Black ($60 at Amazon)Preorders coming soon: PlayStation 5 (See at Amazon)PS5 DualSense Will the PS5 DualSense controller use USB-C for charging?Sony has released bits of information about the PS5 and its accompanying controller, the DualSense. Among the many new features this controller brings is USB-C charging. Paired with a larger battery, that means it'll be quicker to charge and it will last longer than the DualShock 4.The DualSense is part of a full lineup of PS5 accessories slated to launch alongside the console in Holiday 2020.PS5 DualSense Improved feedbackDualSense improvements don't stop there since it also appears to use haptic feedback technology. Haptic feedback allows for different levels...

It's way past time to quit overpaying for your phone bill. Boost Mobile is home to a variety of low-priced mobile plans which start as low as $10 per month — and the best part about it is you don't even need to purchase a new phone! Boost lets you use your current device on its network when you switch, as long as the device is unlocked and CDMA-compatible. Luckily, Boost makes it easy to check on your device's eligibility using the Boost Mobile website.Boost Mobile does sell phones if you find that your current device is unable to be used on the network. In fact, you can score 20% off new Android phones when you use promo code SCHOOL2020 during checkout through August 20. Another deal allows you to buy a Samsung Galaxy A11 and score one for free, though if you're switching from a different carrier, you can actually score both devices for free right now.A variety of affordable plans are offered at Boost Mobile to give you a bit more choice in your phone service. Plans start as ...

Google is getting really good at helping you travel. It may also put a lot of startups out of business along the way.What you need to knowEuropean travel startups are unhappy with Google's incursion into the travel industry.The company has been accused of using data from those startups to build up its own travel feature-set, creating an unassailable advantage when combined with its reach on the continent.Some are considering filing a travel complaint with the European Commission.Google is suffering from a deluge of antitrust complaints in countries ranging from the U.S., India, and even the European Union as a whole. Now, some members of the European travel industry want to add to that caseload with complaints that Google is pushing startups out of business.In a very dense, in-depth piece, TechCrunch reported: More than half a dozen travel startups in Germany are united in a shared complaint that Google is abusing its search dominance in a number of ways they argue ar...

If you were wondering how to watch ESPN Plus (ESPN+) you'll be happy to hear that it's actually quite simple. ESPN+ is a streaming service offering from ESPN that offers live sports, original content, documentaries, and more. The way things are set up is a little different than the way most other streaming platforms operate, so there are a few things you'll want to know before getting started. The ESPN+ content actually lives inside of the ESPN app, which is available on just about all streaming hardware now.Within the ESPN app there is a separate section for the ESPN+ content, which has a fee of $5 per month to access. Whether you are looking to watch ESPN+ on your Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or even Android TV, the way you access it is very similar. Let's take a look at how to get started and watch ESPN+ content on your TV.How to Watch ESPN+On a TVFrom a phoneUsing a computerStreaming SportsESPN+$6 a month at ESPNStream your favorite sports from anywhereESPN+ o...

The update rolled out to Pixel and Samsung phones already.What you need to knowOnePlus has started rolling out the August 2020 security patch to the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro.The update also comes with fixes for the ambient display.Finally, OnePlus adds an optimized shooting effect with the front camera.OnePlus does fairly well with updates, and just like Google and Samsung, it has started rolling out the August 2020 security patch to users of its OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro.As per XDA Developers, here's what's new in this update: System Fixed the overlapping character display issue with Ambient display Fixed known issues and improved system stability Updated Android Security Patch to 2020.08 Camera Optimized shooting effect with front camera The security update itself isn't anything super interesting. There are some media and processor framework improvements, but OnePlus' front-facing camera and ambient display fixes are the most n...

Whether you're planning on restoring your phone or performing a software update, you should always be backing up your smartphone. With devices like the Pixel lineup, you can take advantage of Google Drive, but with Galaxy handsets, Samsung Cloud is where you'll need to go. Samsung offers 15GB of cloud storage for free, making this a no-brainer solution for some of your most important information.How to back up your data with Samsung CloudOpen the Settings app on your Samsung phone. Scroll down and tap on Accounts and backup. Select Samsung Cloud.Under Backup and restore, tap Back up data. Confirm that data to be backed up. Tap Back up at the bottom of the page. Once the backup has finished, tap Done at the bottom.Now that your backup has been completed, just about all of your pertinent and personal information will be in Samsung Cloud, including call logs, Messages, Contacts, Calendar, and even your clock preferences and alarms. If you run out of storage, you can ei...

Android's developer site praises them and offers help to build apps for them. But does Google really want them around?Android isn't as open as most people think, at least when a phone maker wants to include the Google Play Store.It's not closed in the way iOS is, where every single piece of content has to go through Apple's approval process, but manufacturers have a long list of details that are required by Google if they want to include Google's own apps and services. Since those are what actually make an Android phone worth buying, phone makers do it, even if they aren't happy about it. Phone makers aren't required to use Google Play.But you're not required to use Google's services, including the Google Play Store, on your Android phone. There are plenty of other ways to download and install applications to your Android phone, and many of them use a competing service like Bing or Mapquest.The official word from Google about third-party distribution makes it sound like ...

"There's a New Way to Message on Instagram"What you need to knowFacebook making big changes to messaging on Instagram.It seems that Instagram and Messenger chats are starting to mergeThe update was spotted by several editors at The Verge.A new update for Instagram appears to suggest that Facebook has started merging chats on the app with its Facebook Messenger service.As The Verge reports: Facebook appears to flipping the switch on integrating the chat systems for Instagram and Messenger. On Friday evening, several editors at The Verge across the country — on both iOS and Android devices — noticed an update screen popped up in Instagram's mobile app with the message "There's a New Way to Message on Instagram" with a list of features including a "new colorful look for your chats," more emoji reactions, swipe-to-reply, and the big one: "chat with friends who use Facebook."The new update seems to replace the Instagram DM icon with a new Facebook Messenger Logo, wi...

This one-legged, last-eight clash marks the second meeting between these two sides in this tournament, with the French side currently having the upper-hand. Read on to find out how to watch this crucial match between Manchester City vs Lyon, no matter where in the world you are.The two sides faced each other twice in the 2018/19 group stage of the competition, with Lyon running out 2-1 victors at the Etihad, while the reverse fixture in France ended in a 2-2 draw.Both teams come into this quarter-final having claimed some big scalps, with the Citizens knocking out Real Madrid over two legs in the last round and Lyon shocking Italian champions Juventus to progress.While Pep Guardiola's side have been installed as heavy favorites to win by the bookies, Lyon should not be underestimated.Deadly on the counterattack, Rudi Garcia's side look like they're intent on proving a point having missed out on qualification for next year's Champions League after the French Ligue 1 was contro...

The traditional concert experience may be over for 2020, but music fans are lucking out with new virtual experiences and online performances which may not have otherwise been possible. It's exciting to see where this era of virtual concerts is bringing audiences, and Aly and AJ are one of the many bands worldwide taking advantage of such a momentous time in history.This weekend, Aly and AJ are inviting fans to watch their new concert special Aly and AJ: Live at the Bowery Ballroom live for the first time ever with a special showing that will let you watch along with the girls. Live at the Bowery Ballroom takes fans from the back of the venue, putting them in the perspective of a crew member on the stage — and you'll even score a front-row seat as the performance begins. Live at the Bowery Ballroom was recorded earlier this year at New York's Bowery Ballroom on February 26th, 2020 where Aly and AJ performed to a fully sold-out venue.After the premiere, Aly and AJ will be partici...

Older phones that were spared from the ongoing ban on Huawei may no longer be exempted.What you need to knowGoogle may no longer be able to provide Android or app updates to Huawei.While new Huawei phones were already barred from Google services, older phones had till now been eligible to receive updates.The expiration of a reprieve given to Huawei is behind this latest development.Older Huawei phones sold before May 16, 2019, when the ban on Huawei went into effect, had thus far been exempt from the ban on Google Mobile Services (GMS) on Huawei phones. This meant that while newer Huawei phones could no longer run GMS, these older phones could still receive updates to Android and Google apps. That may no longer be true.As a Google document from February stated, which is quoted by the The Washington Post, this special consideration was the result of the Temporary General License (TGL) granted to Huawei. That license has now expired, which could potentially leave the owners...

Samsung's current ToF technology is inferior to Apple's, and it's said to be developing a new sensor to match its rival.What you need to knowMuch like the Note 20 series, the Galaxy S30 will likely not feature a ToF sensor.The ToF sensor found in the S20 is inferior to Apple's and maybe be part of why the company has opted to abandon the tech.Samsung has not given up on the technology, however, and is said to be working on developing its own ToF sensor.A new report from Korean publication The Elec suggests that the Galaxy S30 series, much like the recently-released Note 20, will eschew the 3D time-of-flight (ToF) sensor found in the Galaxy S20+ and S20 Ultra.The publication cites the inferior performance of Samsung's sensor compared to Apple's offering in the iPad Pro and the upcoming iPhone 12 as the reason behind the move. Samsung also believes that there is no 'killer content' using the sensor for AR or VR applications at the moment.On the technical side, the dispari...

It can be a little trickier to adhere a screen protector to the curved display of the Galaxy S8 and other phones like it than with a standard flat-screened phone. But if you're worried about a cracked or scratched screen, it's well worth the hassle. We've rounded up some of the most highly-recommended screen protectors for the Galaxy S8 if you still have one as your primary or secondary device.Best for edge-to-edge protectionWhitestone Dome GlassStaff pickThe Whitestone Dome Glass screen protector is arguably the best screen protector you can buy for your Galaxy S8. The kit includes a UV light, which is used in the curing process to ensure a perfect installation that covers the curved edges of the screen.$45 at NeweggGreat budget picki-Blason Tempered Glass Screen Protectori-Blason makes a tempered glass screen protector that's designed to conform to the Galaxy S8's curved display. It's also slightly shorter than the full height of the phone so that a case won't l...

Google killed off Allo for Messages, and now Duo will meet the same fate.What you need to knowGoogle reportedly plans to kill off Duo and reposition Meet as its premier video-calling experience.Meet is to pick up all of Google Duo's features over a two-year transition period.Google had previously billed Duo as a consumer app and Meet as a business app.Google is set to kill off Duo, its consumer-focused video-calling app, in favor of Meet. The former app had debuted with Google Allo, but had seen some success where Allo hadn't, granting it longevity of sorts. Now, with Meet gaining popularity, google seemingly wants to combine its video messaging efforts into once.9to5Google broke the news this evening, reporting: This decision is the result of Google placing its consumer communication services — Duo, Messages, and Android's Phone app — under the leadership of G Suite head Javier Soltero. After the unified team was made public in May, Soltero announced to employees...

A microSD card for your Android phone lets you easily move your files, photos, and music from device to device without having to rely on steady Wi-Fi or costly data. It also lets you load your phone up with apps, music, and movies, which is especially useful if your device doesn't come with a lot of internal storage. But which ones are the best? Here's a good selection from which to choose.Best blendSamsung EVO SelectStaff pickThis has long been our preferred card for three reasons: it's reliable, it's fast, and it goes on sale frequently. It's available in 32GB to 512GB capacities, with write speeds for the 128GB and up boasting 100MB/s read and 90MB/s write speeds.From $33 at AmazonFrom $38 at NeweggUltra affordableSanDisk UltraSanDisk has more powerful cards out there, but for most folks, the Ultra is the right answer. It has up to 100MB/s read speeds for accessing downloaded movies and music, and you can purchase it in sizes from 8GB up to 512GB.From $6 at ...

The Moto G6 isn't a particularly large phone, but when you compare it to the 4-inch smartphones of yesteryear, it's still fairly sizable, and that means it's gonna weigh your pants or bag down if you carry it along with your wallet and other goods. Cut down on your carry as a whole and pick up a wallet case for your G6 — these are the best you can buy.Luxurious 'leather'icarercase PU leather Wallet CaseStaff PickThis case is made of polyurethane, so it may not be real leather, but it definitely looks and feels the part. It has three card slots on the inside, as well as a cash pocket, and the front cover becomes a kickstand for hands-free viewing. The front cover is also magnetic, and it has a streamlined look without a clasp.$16 at AmazonProtect yourselfLFDZ RFID Blocking Wallet CaseIn addition to providing three card slots and a pocket for some cash, the LFDZ Wallet Case has another trick. There's a built-in RFID blocker, keeping your precious credit card...

Every messaging app will eventually become a video calling app, Telegram just jumped on a bit late.What you need to knowTelegram is finally adding video-calling support to its app.The company says that this is an "alpha" with more updates coming down the line to improve the experience.Group video calling is scheduled to make an appearance later this year. Telegram today announced an update to its Android app, enabling video calls. As we live in a world where we spend more time apart than together, connecting whether through Zoom, Meet, or Duo has been on most people's top priorities. Telegram is now joining the list of messaging apps that offer video-calling as well (in 2020, that's almost all of them).The company says that this is an "alpha" version, a bit of a pre-emptive mea culpa for any issues users might face with this experience. It's also going to be Android only at launch, with the company blaming an App Store approval process for the delay on its iOS app.If yo...

Here are some of the hot takes you might have missed.When Microsoft announced the price and release date ($1,400 and September 10) of the new Surface Duo earlier this week, reactions among Microsoft fans generally ranged from disappointed to incredibly excited. On one hand, Microsoft is bringing its familiar Surface design prowess to a new type of mobile productivity device. On the other, Surface Duo is a first-generation smartphone that's lacking in some key areas.Among a lot of the media, there's been a decidedly optimistic tone when it comes to Surface Duo, despite its shortfalls. While Microsoft's new flagship might not stand up to something like the Galaxy Z Fold 2 in terms of raw specs, it's a decidedly focused product intended to deliver a very particular experience. And, for the most part, it's receiving kudos from the tech sphere for trying something new.If you haven't had a chance to skim through the tens of thousands of words that have been written on it this week, h...

Smart lights are a staple of any smart home, and the options are seemingly endless, even when looking for the best lights that support Google Assistant. They're functional, energy-efficient, and can be a lot of fun to use, so why not hook it up to your favorite smart assistant? Want some help narrowing down your choices, so you're only considering the best of the best? Here are our top recommendations.Colorful starter kitPhilips Hue Multicolor A19 Starter KitStaff pickThis starter kit for Philips Hue is expensive, but it's one of the best ones you can buy. Included here is the necessary hub and four A19 bulbs that all support over 16 million colors. You can have all the bulbs emit the same color, or have each one do its own thing. Philips advertises 25,000 hours of use per bulb, and of course, they work beautifully with Google Assistant.$200 at Best Buy$200 at WalmartTake it anywherePhilips Hue GoPhilips Hue lights go far beyond light bulbs, with one of the...

You get two Dans for the price of none this week as Daniel Rubino from Windows Central joins Daniel Bader and Jerry Hildenbrand for a dive into the how and why of Microsoft's Surface Duo.They maintain a focus on Microsoft's involvement with the Android/Google world by also discussing their partnership with Samsung, Xbox Project xCloud, and efforts to purchase TikTok.Listen nowSubscribe in Pocket Casts: AudioSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: Audio Subscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:Surface Duo FAQ: Everything you need to know about Microsoft's first dual-screen Surface | Windows CentralSurface Duo will receive OS and security updates for three years | Windows Central24 hours with the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra: Big, beautiful, and a little backwards | Android CentralMicrosoft 'Your Phone' will soon let you stream your Android apps to Windows 10 | Windows CentralApple responds to Xbox Project xCloud iOS block, Microsoft kicks b...

Whether you want to build a career in code or simply automate your daily tasks, learning Python is a smart move. The Python 3 Complete Masterclass Certification Bundle provides a comprehensive education, with 30 hours of premium content for just $29.99.From data science to machine learning, Python 3 powers many exciting apps. For this reason, developers are in demand — according to Indeed, the average salary for a Python expert is $119,019.This beginner-friendly bundle helps you master the language, with seven courses on the latest version of Python. Through hands-on tutorials, you learn how to automate Excel actions, build data visualizations, and parse content from the web.The training also looks at network applications, with multiple fun projects to try. This means you gain experience while building a solid portfolio.Your instructor is Mihai Catalin Teodosiu, a certified automation engineer who is rated at 4.6 stars on Udemy.These courses are worth $1,393 in total, but yo...