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Updated 2025-09-16 09:32
Take better pics with your phone's Pro or Manual mode
Software has truly pushed mobile photography to the new heights it's reached in recent years, but there's something to be said about putting more of that control back into your own hands. That's where a phone's pro or manual mode can step in with tools that better emulate how a DSLR or mirrorless camera performs.There's a very good chance your phone has a pro or manual mode. Especially if it's a flagship, though even some mid-range devices will include it. You may have skipped over that mode every time, but you don't need to be intimidated by it. A little knowledge will go a long way in helping you capture even better photos than you expected.Find the modeFrom the start, it's important to note that not every Android phone has a pro or manual mode. As an example, Google's Pixel line — among the best phone cameras available — doesn't have one. Third-party apps do offer some recourse as alternatives, so you're not out of luck if you don't see one. If yours does have it, open i...
Automatically change the daily wallpapers on your Samsung Galaxy phone
Out of all of Samsung's fun customizations in One UI and its Galaxy phones, the dynamic lock screen is low-key one of my all-time favorites. With other phones, I often forget how easily bored I can get with the standard lock screen options, but this dynamic feature automatically updates all the time in the background and gives me a pleasant surprise each time. I'll show you just how easy it is to toggle this setting on so that you can start enjoying a little variety on your Galaxy phone.How to enable Samsung's dynamic lock screenOpen the Settings app.Tap on Wallpaper.Tap on Wallpaper services.Toggle on Dynamic Lock screen.Tap on the gear icon to the right of the Dynamic Lock Screen.Toggle on Auto update.Toggle on Download using mobile data, or leave it off if you only want to download new wallpapers over a Wi-Fi network.Tap on Dynamic Lock Screen and select a category to download.Confirm how you wish to download updates and tap Download.That's it. Now you'll be gr...
Samsung’s new Exynos 850 raises the bar for budget-focused mobile chipsets
The chip is designed for smartphones, tablets, wearables, and IoT devices.What you need to knowSamsung has shed more light on the specifications of its new Exynos 850 mobile processor.It is the first 8nm mobile processor that is designed for budget phones.The first phone to feature the new chip is the Galaxy A21s, which was announced last month.Samsung introduced a new Galaxy A series phone called the A21s last month, featuring an Exynos 850 chipset under the hood. While Samsung didn't reveal much about the chipset back then, it has now detailed all the key features and specifications of the Exynos 850 on its website (via SamMobile).The Exynos 850 is manufactured on an 8nm LPP process, which gives it an edge over other recent mobile chipsets that have been designed for affordable smartphones. It uses eight ARM Cortex-A55 CPU cores clocked at 2GHz, coupled with an ARM Mali-G52 GPU. Unlike Samsung's flagship Exynos 990 and mid-range Exynos 980 chips, however, the Exynos 850...
Start saving with Samsung's T5 500GB portable SSD at its best price to date
The Samsung T5 500GB portable solid state drive is down to just $79.99 at Amazon, which is a match for the lowest it has ever gone. This drive has sold for as much as $110 in the last few months and rarely goes far below $90. The sale price, which is a match for a Best Buy one-day sale, applies only to the blue model, with the gold and red versions at $89.99.This 500GB external SSD features quick read and write speeds of up to 540 Mbps, along with optional password protection and AES 256-bit hardware encryption. It's so tiny it can fit in the palm of your hand too. Samsung includes two cables so you can connect it to either a USB-C or a standard USB port right out of the box.In a perfect world, portable solid state drives would be just as inexpensive as portable hard drives. After all, the main feature of SSDs is they have no moving parts, which really makes them perfect for carrying data on the move. Hard drives are much more prone to failure when getting knocked around in your ...
How to take your phone's best shot in RAW
Your smartphone's camera does a lot of work to make your photos look the way they do. Onboard software takes the data from the image sensor and processes it to create the photo you see when you preview it right after shooting it. RAW photos are, much like their namesake, totally raw and devoid of any processing.Shooting in RAW gives you the ultimate freedom to handle the processing side of the equation yourself. Editing these images provides the flexibility to get more out of them than you might otherwise get from the software itself. Here's how to do that.What makes a file RAWWhen a phone saves a photo as a JPEG, it does all the processing and compresses it at the same time. A RAW file is both unprocessed and uncompressed, so what you have is the raw data that the image sensor recorded. This is why file sizes are several times larger than they would be as JPEGs, and why they look so dull and desaturated when you first see them. Because these files also save in formats like DNG...
Reminder: Most people don't know or care what processor is in their phone
Having a good processor is a checkbox item, not a purchase driver.The debate over what processor you should expect in a smartphone has picked back up in 2020 after a couple of years of seemingly taking a back seat in people's hierarchy of needs. It seems to be mostly driven by increasingly-expensive high-end phones saddled by the extra cost tied to Qualcomm's Snapdragon 865, and the subsequent decision by some companies to step down and use Qualcomm's 700-series processors typically used in less-expensive phones.Every time one of these arguments over processors springs back up, I need to remind everyone that the vast majority of people simply don't care what processor is in their phone — in fact, most people don't even know what processor they're using. And even those who do know which processors are in phones probably shouldn't put so much emphasis on them when buying their next phone.Research shows that average consumers simply don't factor the processor into their buying...
Best VPN Deals 2020: Discounts, coupons & more
Trying to find the best VPN is a struggle on its own, but when you then mix in trying to find the best deal on a VPN you find yourself down a whole new rabbit hole. Odds are you've heard a lot about VPNs and are already aware of the reasons that you need one, but now you need to find the best price, right? We've looked through hundreds of the "best" VPN deals that are out there to bring you only the top options that are actually worth considering.Best VPN Deals Right NowExpressVPN: 49% off annual sub + 3 months freeNordVPN: Save 70% on 3-year planIPVanish: Save $200 + 250GB SugarSync freePureVPN: 7-day trial for $1PIA VPN: 2 months freeSurfshark: From 7 cents/dayFastestVPN: Lifetime access for $20More Deals: Tunnelbear, Cyberghost & moreOdds are that you have heard of a VPN, or Virtual Private Network, before but may not have signed up for one already. There are some common misconceptions about VPNs, especially that they are quite expensive, but that's not at all...
Get rid of the clutter by grouping your tabs in Google Chrome
Keep your tabs organized.Google has decided to release a new feature to Chromebook owners and general Chrome users who have problems with too many tabs and the disorganization that comes with it. Tab Groups are created with a right-click, and then you can customize them with colors and even group naming. Those who like visual cues to see where work is being done, or to separate work from play will enjoy using this new feature.How to Group Tabs in ChromeAlthough Google stated that the ability to group tabs in Chrome is coming, it's not available for everyone just yet. Before getting started, you'll need to make sure that Chrome is updated to the latest version. This is done by tapping the three-dot overflow menu, selecting Settings, then clicking About Chrome. If an update is available, you will be shown a prompt to download and install. Once the installation is finished, restart Chrome, and the new Grouped Tabs feature should be available.Right-click on a tab at the top of C...
Frozen 2 launch on Disney+ pulled forward two weeks in the UK
Go Into The Unknown two weeks earlier than originally anticipated.What you need to knowFrozen 2 was originally scheduled to arrive on Disney+ in the UK on July 17.This was due to existing license agreements before the service launched.The smash hit sequel is already streaming on Disney+ in other territories.We're used to waiting for digital content in the UK, especially Disney content, but one of the hottest movies on the planet is still absent from the local version of Disney+. The good news is that the wait won't be quite as long as first anticipated, with Disney announcing that Frozen 2 will now be available to stream from July 3.“Don't make me wait, one moment more… show yourself!” OK Elsa. ❄️ #Frozen2 streaming July 3 on #DisneyPlusUK pic.twitter.com/DS4AdY7xTv— Disney+ UK (@DisneyPlusUK) June 2, 2020Originally, fans of Elsa and the gang were going to have to wait until July 17 to stream the sequel on Disney+ "due to existing agreements." Whatever tho...
Samsung launches new Galaxy M01 and Galaxy M11 budget phones in India
The Galaxy M11's headline feature is its massive 5,000mAh battery with 15W fast charging.What you need to knowSamsung has launched two new affordable Galaxy M series phones in IndiaThe Galaxy M11 features a 6.4-inch Infinity-O display and a triple-camera array on the back. Samsung's latest entry-level phone, the Galaxy M01 sports a dual-camera setup and a 4000mAh battery. Samsung today launched two new budget-friendly Galaxy M series phones in India: the Galaxy M11 and Galaxy M01. While the Galaxy M11 quietly made its global debut in March, the Galaxy M01 is an all-new phone.The Galaxy M11 comes with a 6.4-inch HD+ Infinity-O display and is powered by the three-year old Snapdragon 450 processor, paired with up to 4GB of RAM and 64GB storage. It has a triple-camera setup at the rear featuring a 13MP primary sensor, 5MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. For selfies, the phone offers an 8MP camera with an f/2.0 aperture. It also includes a rear-mounted fingerpri...
Google brings its Advanced Protection Program to Nest devices
Until now, it wasn't possible for users to use their Google Account with both Advanced Protection and Nest devices.What you need to knowGoogle has finally brought its Advanced Protection Program to Nest devices.The Advanced Protection Program offers additional safeguards against fraudulent access, phishing, and malware. It is aimed at people that are at high risk of targeted attacks, such as activists, journalists, and people working on elections.Google's Advanced Protection Program, which is designed for high-risk users such as journalists, activists, and people working on elections, is now available for Nest users as well. Over the years, Google has integrated many of the security features of the Advanced Protection Program into GSuite, Chrome, and the Google Cloud Platform. The program offers extra safeguards that help protect your Google Account against phishing, malware, and unauthorized access.Shuvo Chatterjee, Product Manager, Advanced Protection Program, wrote in ...
Will Amazon Prime Day 2020 be a disappointment?
It's no secret that some people just love to hate Prime Day. Do their opinions have any basis in truth? With the sixth annual Prime Day likely to take place in September, here's a bit of my experience. I'll be the first to admit that I was disappointed by the first and second Amazon Prime Day. The Internet exploded with much-justified outrage after each one, and I was part of the mob. Amazon's first Prime Day was basically a garage sale, with too many items to choose from and not enough inventory. It was clunky, confusing, difficult to navigate, and frustrating.The few deals I did want to buy sold out within seconds. I was disappointed, partially because I hadn't secured a slew of packages, but mostly because I expected more from the supersized retailer. The second year was slightly better, but more of the same. I didn't make a single purchase on Prime Day 2015 or 2016.In 2017, Amazon learned from its mistakes. I was fully prepared and bracing myself for more discounted refurbished...
G Suite for Education is finally getting Smart Compose and Autocorrect
The two features combined can automate some of your writing duties.What you need to knowMonths after their availability on G Suite, Autocorrect and Smart Compose for Google Docs are finally making their way to G Suite for Education and Nonprofits.Autocorrect automatically correct any spelling and grammatical errors in your writing.Smart Compose, meanwhile, uses machine learning to suggest the rest of the sentence based on what you've written.It's been over six months since Google first started testing Smart Compose and Autocorrect in Google Docs and over four months since the feature was made widely available to G Suite users in general, but the company has finally brought the features to G Suite for Education and Nonprofits.First revealed for Gmail, Smart Compose uses machine learning for automatic sentence completion based on the current phrase you're typing in. The feature, Google says, is aimed at 'cutting back on repetitive writing while reducing the chance of spelli...
Google Stadia may get on-screen touch controls soon
Soon you won't need a controller.What you need to knowGoogle Stadia is a cloud game streaming service.Google keeps on adding new features to the platform. On-screen controls are coming soon. You can purchase a Stadia bundle for $130 through the Google Store. Google Stadia is a cloud game streaming service that launched in November 2019 to a lot of excitement. While there is still an issue when it comes to having an expansive game catalog, there are a lot of promising titles on the horizon.However, the technical front of Stadia is even more exciting. Recently, 9to5Google said that Stadia was getting on-screen controls after doing some digging. This would be great for those who want to play a less-intense game without hooking up a controller. Hopefully, Google will announce this feature soon because it seems like it's already been datamined.Would you use on-screen controls or do you think they're too finicky? Let us know.Everything you needStadia: Premiere Editio...
Google accidentally leaked the Android 11 beta to some Pixel owners
Well, that's not good.What you need to knowOn June 1, Google began rolling out the latest monthly security patch for Pixel devices.Instead of a boring patch, some users were given the Android 11 beta ahead of schedule.The build number for the OTA beta update is RPB1.200504.018.A new month is a signal for a new monthly security patch for Pixel devices, and the latest June update has proven to be more exciting than usual for a couple of reasons. In addition to a new Pixel Feature Drop that adds improvements for better battery life and new safety tools, some Pixel owners were also treated to the Android 11 beta ahead of schedule.Rather than be super vague about this, I'll just say it up front:Two people DMed me saying they got the Android 11 beta OTA update on their Pixel 4 XL.Build #: RPB1.200504.018— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) June 1, 2020XDA's Mishaal Rahman recently shared that some users who expected to download the June security patch were instead given an O...
The PS5 looks to be packing an SSD and will support ray tracing
The PlayStation 5 is shaping up to be an incredibly powerful console the likes of which we have never seen before.Sony's next-generation console, likely to be named the PlayStation 5, is far from gracing store shelves, but the company has revealed a few of its specs to give fans a taste of just how powerful it will be. We're hoping to learn more as we head deeper into 2020, but for now, the presumed PS5 is looking like quite the machine, in comparison to both the current crop of consoles and the next generation Xbox also in the works right now.PS5 specs & how does it compare to the PS4 Pro?It should go without saying, but the PS5 will be drastically more powerful than any model in the PS4 family, including the PS4 Pro. Category PlayStation 4 Pro PlayStation 5 Price $399 Unknown Dimensions 11.61in x 12.87in x 2.17in Unknown CPU AMD Jaguar 8-core (x86-64) 8x Zen 2 Cores at 3.5GHz GPU AMD Radeon (4.2 TFLOPs) Custom RDNA 2 (10.28 TFLO...
Shadow of Death 2 is what a mobile 2D hack-and-slash should be
Sometimes, you stumble across greatness while digging through the Play Store. This happened to me late last week when I was trying to come up with an idea for this article. I found Shadow of Death 2, an Early Access title and sequel to Shadow of Death (obviously). It's a side-scrolling 2D hack-and-slash with a shadowy aesthetic and RPG elements. Intriguing!All of that sounds cool, but this game was obviously designed with a mobile gamer's short attention span in mind. Each of the levels is often pretty quick to complete, so you can finish one while waiting in line or whatever, and pick it up again later when you have another free moment. While I wouldn't say this game grips my attention as thoroughly as Titan Quest or Anima do, it's definitely a great way to kill some time.Shadow of Death 2 picks up where its predecessor (a game I never gave much thought to) left off. I remember picking it up a few times to try it and, while I had some fun, I couldn't justify the time investm...
How to download and install Android 11 Developer Preview 4 on your Pixel
There be dragons ahead, so use caution.It's that time of year again, though earlier than ever before: a developer preview of the latest version of Android is available, called Android 11. And while Google explicitly says that only developers should install it, many of us want to see what the company is planning for the next big update, set to be released sometime this summer.Top 10 features in Android 11 you need to know about right nowGiven that this is a developer preview, there are going to be missing features and bugs, so you shouldn't expect a fully working experience. But if you're curious about what's next, here's how to download and install it, plus answers to a few questions you may have.Update, May 6, 2020: Google has released the fourth Android 11 developer preview for Pixel phones. It's still aimed primarily at developers, but there will be far fewer bugs, and newer features, this time around. Google has delayed the release of the first Android 11 beta beyond June...
How to quickly lock down your Android phone
Lockdown mode is a security feature that first arrived with Android 9 Pie that acts as a last-resort measure to keep prying eyes out of your phone. Enabling it obfuscates any incoming notifications on your lockscreen and disables biometrics and Smart Lock settings, preventing anyone from forcing you to unlock your phone with your face or fingerprint.Product used in this guidePure Android bliss: Google Pixel 4 ($650 at Amazon)Well-rounded flagship: Samsung Galaxy S20 ($1000 at Amazon)How to enable Lockdown on the Pixel 4The exact steps to enable Lockdown mode varies from phone to phone, but on the Pixel 4, it's as simple as jumping into the display settings. Once it's been enabled, you won't have to launch it from the settings every time; instead, it'll conveniently show up in the power menu.Open the Settings app.Tap Display, then drop down additional options by tapping Advanced.At the bottom of the screen, tap Lock screen display.Under What to Show, toggle Show loc...
Pixel Ripped 1995 brings classic pixel gaming to the Oculus Quest library
Oculus Quest is Facebook's last piece of hardware in its first generation of VR devices. It has six degrees of freedom, movement tracking so you can game throughout an area and two Touch Controllers, which facilitate a wide range of gameplay. The Oculus Quest now has over 100 games available, ranging from first-person shooters to musical saber swinging titles. We marked the latest titles with "new," and at the top of the list, so you can keep track of all the latest games.New titlesAvailable nowSupported Oculus Go gamesConfirmed future titlesTeased future titlesNewBattle in darknessGloomy EyesNewAfter the sun went dark, zombies rose from their graves. While humans and zombies clash, a human girl and a zombie boy fall in love in this VR experience.$8 at Oculus StoreFour!Pro Putt by TopgolfNewPlay on your own or in multiplayer modes in this golf game with a 10,000 square foot practice green and three courses. You can also play in the Topgolf Putt L...
Facebook employees publicly revolt against the company's political stance
Facebook employees now wonder if they are the baddies.What you need to knowFacebook employees have come out to publicly criticize Zuckerberg's handling of a Donald Trump post last week.Employees have also staged a virtual workout in protest and in solidarity with protestors across the U.S.Zuckerberg has promised to donate an additional $10 million to nonprofits tackling racial justice.Facebook employees are openly revolting against CEO Mark Zuckerberg over the company's decision to leave a post by Donald Trump, censured on Twitter for being an incitement to violent, up on its platform.For some, it went further than simply allowing the story to stay up on its platform, "Mark Zuckerberg Comes to Trump's Defense," The New Republic's headline went as the CEO went on Fox News to denounce Twitter. It's against this backdrop that Facebook employees finally spoke out in open revolt.Mark is wrong, and I will endeavor in the loudest possible way to change his mind.— Ryan Freita...
These are the best Android tablets to get to excel in school
Android tablets come in all different shapes and sizes and picking the best one can be tough for a student. But it's easier to pick the perfect tablet when you have one as powerful as the Galaxy Tab S6. With S Pen support and 8GB of RAM, this will handle anything and everything you come across.Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy Tab S6If you need a tablet capable of handling almost any task, then you don't want to look past the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6. When picking one of these up, you'll be happy to know that Samsung includes an S Pen with every purchase, so you don't have to fork over extra cash.Under the hood, the Tab S6 sports either 6GB or 8GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of expandable storage. This has been combined with the latest Snapdragon 855 chipset, which is found in many of your favorite 2019 flagship phones. This will allow you to take advantage of Samsung Dex Mode, which turns your Tab S6 into a desktop-like experience. Having a desktop-like experience on a 10.5-inc...
The Last of Us Part II will hit us in the feels on June 19
Joel and Ellie made it out alive, but did they escape danger?The original launch of The Last of Us was a refreshing departure for Naughty Dog. As much as we love Nathan Drake, seeing Uncharted's level of polish, deep storytelling, and rich character development in an entirely different world is richly satisfying.So naturally, we're expecting big things out of The Last of Us sequel. The Last of Us II is on its way for the PlayStation 4, and if you haven't kept up until now, then we're here to get you up to speed.What's the story so far?What's happening in Part II?Gameplay detailsWhat are previews saying?When does it release?Ellie is backThe Last of Us Part II$60 at Best BuyReturning for one last adventureThe Last of Us Part II is the continuation of the 2013 hit. This time the story follows the path of hate, vengeance, retribution, and how they change a person. Please be careful to avoid spoilers, because this is sure to be one hell of a ride.What's the s...
PlayStation delays PS5 showcase due to ongoing protests
Some things are more important right now.What you need to knowSony's upcoming PS5 showcase, The Future of Gaming, was scheduled to take place on June 4, 2020.The showcase is being delayed due to the ongoing protests. There is no new date for when the event will be held yet. A few days ago, Sony announced The Future of Gaming, a presentation for PS5 games. While the event was previously scheduled for June 4, it's now being delayed to an undisclosed date in the future. Sony made this decision in light of the ongoing protests against police brutality and racial injustice. You can read the full statement below.pic.twitter.com/ZAY8StN0EU— PlayStation (@PlayStation) June 1, 2020We'll provide an update in the future when a new date is announced.Developing...PlayStation 5PlayStation 5: Everything we know so farPS5 vs. Xbox Series X: How they comparePS5 Specs: What's in the next-gen PlayStationWill PS4 games work on the PlayStation 5?...
How to watch Studio Ghibli films on Netflix in the U.S., Canada, & Japan
The first round of Studio Ghibli films made their way to Netflix starting on February 1, 2020, with more hitting every month after. In total there are 21 films that are now available on Netflix, with the most recent batch of them hitting on April 1, 2020. The films will be made available globally through a distribution partner Wild Bunch International, though this rollout will exclude some big markets where people will want to watch them.For those not familiar, Studio Ghibli was founded back in 1985 by the directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, along with the producer Toshio Suzuki. It is a Japanese animation film studio that has produced feature films, shorts, TV commercials, and even worked with video game studios on visual elements for games. Six of the studio's films are among the 10 highest-grossing anime films from Japan, and the company has many other accolades. It's most successful title was Spirited Away, which made over $360 million worldwide and was voted the fourth-b...
Here's what the revamped Android 11 power menu will look like
Android 11's power menu will work better with smart home devicesWhat you need to knowAndroid's power button menu will get built-in smart home controls with Android 11.Hints of the upcoming feature were spotted in developer documentation earlier in the year.New screenshots show us what the finished product might look like. Google is continuing the revamp of Android's power button menu it started this year. With the second Pixel Feature Drop, it added Cards & Passes, a way to quickly access all your stored Google Pay cards. With Android 11, Google plans to add options for smart home controls.Spotted at the initial drop of Android 11 by* XDA Developers*, the new quick controls area of the power button menu will plug into smart home apps and services. You'll be able to control devices like fans, coffee makers, AC units, Mowers, and radiators, among others, as long as they are compatible with the new "Controls" API on Android 11.New screenshots show off what Google inte...
Make your money work for you with this $35 training
In order to ensure that you enjoy a bright financial future, you need to have more than just a few scattered stocks and a low-interest savings account.In fact, it's never been more important to have a detailed understanding of the more advanced and nuanced financial options that will help your money work for you, and the Complete Finance Training & Investing Bundle is your one-stop resource for making that happen.Usually priced at over $1,500, this comprehensive $34.99 training package comes loaded with eight courses and over 400 lessons on everything from financial literacy and accounting to long-term investments and beyond.Your instructor, Chris Haroun, has years of experience with multiple types of investing strategies and platforms, and all of his expert knowledge is available in this best-selling bundle that features over 30 hours of content.You'll learn how to make detailed predictions in any financial market, diversify your portfolio, work with the financial industry...
It's easier than you may think to print something from your Android phone
As Android technology progresses, so does your ability to get everything done right from your Android phone or tablet. Google has designed a cloud printing app that works with your printer connected either to your wireless network or to your computer via USB. Here's how to set up Google Cloud Print within Chrome on your computer and how to start printing directly from your Android device.Products used in this guideGoogle's best: Pixel 4 (From $628 at Amazon)Solid starter printer: HP LaserJet Pro MFP M29w ($139 at Amazon)How to add your printer to Google Cloud PrintLaunch Chrome on your computer.Click on the menu button in the top right corner. It looks like three horizontal lines.Click Settings.Click Advanced in the sidebar.Scroll down and click Printing.Under Printing, click Google Cloud Print.Click Manage Cloud Print devices at the bottom.Click the Register next to the printer you want to be added to Google Cloud Print.Click Confirm.If you happen to hav...
June 2020 security patch details now available
Fixing the latest bugs and exploits in Android every month.Google has detailed the latest Android Security Bulletin and released the fixes for Pixel devices.These are exploits and other security concerns that affect Android as a whole. Issues with the operating system, kernel patches, and driver updates may not affect any particular device, but these need to be fixed in the Android base by the folks maintaining the operating system code. That means Google, and they've detailed the things they have improved for this month.Updated factory images for Pixel devices that are supported are available, and over-the-air updates are rolling out to users. If you don't want to wait, you can download and flash the factory image or OTA update file manually, and here are some handy instructions to get you started.How to manually update your Pixel The company that made your phone uses these patches to send an update out to you.These changes have been released to the people making Andr...
June 2020 security patch rolling out to Pixel phones
The update is rolling out in stages starting today.What you need to knowThe June 2020 patch also has an accompanying Pixel Feature Drop.High-priority and moderate-priority bugs in the Android framework and system have been addressed.The update is rolling out now for supported phones.The beginning of the month means Google's Pixel phones will be seeing a new update, and June is no exception. Starting today, Google began rolling out the latest security patch for its Pixel devices.As with every security patch, this one comes with general bug and vulnerability fixes to ensure your phone is as safe as possible. These fixes may seem minor and unimportant, but they're the kinds of update that truly keeps your phone safe and secure.In addition, this month brings another Pixel Feature Drop that includes improvements to the adaptive battery feature, new emergency contact tools, and more.More: Google's new software update tries to fix the Pixel 4's awful battery lifeThe June 2...
Stream music in the car with Anker's Roav Viva on sale for just $20
Our phones can be hard to look away from sometimes, but when you're driving, the last thing you should be doing is messing around with a mobile device. A car mount for your phone is a good first step towards keeping it out of your hands and in sight for navigating, but it doesn't truly solve the problem. However, Anker's Roav Viva can. Though it looks like a simple USB car charger, it's actually much more than that. It features Amazon Alexa functionality built-in, allowing you to give voice commands like "Alexa, check the weather at my destination", "Alexa, get directions to the nearest gas station", and "Alexa, play some 90s music".If you're ready to drive safer, the Roav Viva is currently on sale for just $19.99 at Amazon when you enter promo code VIVACAR199 during checkout. That's one of the best prices we've ever seen it reach and a pretty stellar deal for all that it can accomplish.The Viva connects to your phone via Bluetooth, and then you connect your phone to your car's s...
Stock up on household essentials at Amazon and save $10 instantly
Amazon is one of the best places to shop for all the cleaning products your home needs. Not only do you get to stay home and shop at any time of day, but Amazon also offers low prices and often beats the deals available at other retailers. Right now you'll save an extra $10 on your purchase just by adding $35 or more worth of qualifying household essentials to your cart before checking out. The discount will appear automatically at checkout.This latest offer at Amazon includes a wide variety of cleaning products to choose from, and the best part is that many items are already discounted before taking into account the extra $10 you'll be saving. For instance, this 96-count package of Tide PODS Laundry Detergent Liquid Pacs is available for $21.44 right now, a few dollars off its regular cost of $24. Plus, with Subscribe & Save, you can pick it up for as low as $20.37.If you've never used Subscribe & Save before, it's important you know about its benefits. Rather than a one...
Google’s new software update tries to fix the Pixel 4’s awful battery life
The latest Pixel Feature Drop has Adaptive Battery improvements, new emergency tools, and more.What you need to knowPixel 2 and newer devices are getting an improved Adaptive Battery feature to further extend battery life.Safety check is being added to allow for automatic location sharing when traveling alone, and in some cases, for automatic emergency callsThe Recorder app is getting tighter integration with Google Docs, along with picking up Google Assistant help.Google is continuing to bring new and updated features to the Pixel software experience as the devices age, helping them stay relevant longer. Today, there are some helpful and important new features heading to Pixel devices that further integrate with our lives.Pixel devices already have emergency contact features built-in, along with the Trusted Contacts app, both with the goal of adding some safety to your phone. With the new safety check option within the Safety app, you'll be able to do things like schedul...
How to check your heart rate on a Samsung Galaxy smartwatch smartwatch
Samsung Galaxy watches have an outstanding suite of fitness-focused features that use heart rate tracking as part of the evaluation process. These watches can track sleep, stress, and the Galaxy Active 2 will even do ECG and blood pressure monitoring in a future update. So, let's look at what steps can be taken to ensure your watch is keeping track of your ticker.Products used in this guideThe beat goes on: Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 44mm (From $298 at Amazon)Your health hub: Samsung Health (Free at Google Play Store)How to check your heart rate on a Samsung Galaxy smartwatchRegardless of how you have customized your Galaxy smartwatch, Samsung Health is there and is a consistent way of checking your heart rate.Press the apps button on your watch to show all of the available apps.Scroll to the Samsung Health app and tap it.Find the heart rate in the list, then select it.Once open, tap on the word measure to take a current heart rate measurement.Hold still for a...
Everything you need to know about the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro
It's 2020, and OnePlus is done settling.OnePlus manages to release some of the most exciting and interesting Android phones every year. The concept of getting flagship specs for considerably less money than the competition is what's helped OnePlus stand out from other brands, but as prices rise with each new release and that cost gap closes, OnePlus has had to further refine and improve its phones to help them still stand out.For 2020, OnePlus is bringing two new handsets to the U.S. with the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro. The OnePlus 8 is a pretty minor update to 2019's OnePlus 7T, while OnePlus 8 Pro is where the company put all of its marbles to create its most premium smartphone to-date.Whether you're interested in our review, full device specs, or a closer look at the OnePlus 8/8 Pro's best features, here's everything you need to know!Here's our full reviewStock is limited right nowOnePlus is offering two modelsThe specs are insaneIs it time to upgrade?Let's compare ...
How to watch 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way live from anywhere
The 90 Day Fiancé spinoff, 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way, returns to TLC for a second season full of new experiences and new love. Where the original show focuses on foreign fiancees of American citizens who travel to the U.S. to see if their international romance will lead to marriage, The Other Way puts a spin on the format and showcases Americans who head to a foreign country to meet their potential true love.Season 2 of 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way includes two returning couples from Season 1 — Jenny and Sumit as well as Deavan and Jihoon — along with four new couples to the series.90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way: When & where90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way Season 2 begins airing on Monday, June 8 at 9 p.m. ET on TLC. The season was originally scheduled to debut on June 1 but had its airdate pushed back just a few days before its premiere for unknown reasons.TLC is letting everyone watch the season premiere early on its website. You can stream the episode right no...
Which home cocktail maker to get, the Bartesian or Drinkworks Drinkmaker?
Great to use your own spiritsThe Bartesian$350 at Bartesian$350 at Best BuyProsUse your favorite spiritsCustomizable drink strengthGood variety of cocktailsConsYou need your own spiritsExpensive capsulesNo mobile appWhen it comes to at-home cocktail making machines, the Bartesian takes the cake. It works with a wide selection of cocktail capsules containing mixes for everything from classic drinks like margaritas to more interesting ones like mint juleps and rob roys. Using premium ingredients like bitters and juices in each capsule, you get drinks that taste like they were just mixed and poured by a bartender. And a monthly subscription service means you can keep the machine stocked with your favorite cocktail selections at all times.All-in-one solutionDrinkworks Drinkmaker Home Bar by Keurig$300 at Best Buy$300 at DrinkworksProsAlcohol included in podsMobile app for set-up and re-ordersThemed and limited-edition drinksBeer and wine op...
Everything you need to know about Iron Man VR for PlayStation VR
Are you ready to take to the skies and shoot down enemies?I've always wanted to know what it would be like to put my head inside of Iron Man's mask. Anytime I watched the movies, I fell in love with the way the screen looked from the inside of his helmet. All the scanners, notifications, stats, and information displayed on the screen using an augmented reality view has always sparked my interest.Now, it's going to be something none of us have to dream about anymore. Iron Man VR is coming sometime this year as a PlayStation VR exclusive and I'm already at the edge of my seat.Ryan Payton and his studio, Camouflaj, got permission from Jay Ong, the head of Marvel Games, to make an Iron Man game inside of a virtual reality (VR) headset. The team has been working diligently for a few years on this creation and the world is close to seeing it release to the public for play.Are you ready to join this super secret boy band as Iron Man? Well, get ready!Soaring highMarvel's Iron M...
ProtonVPN is the free VPN you need to try today
If you're looking for a great free VPN, then it's well worth giving ProtonVPN's service a try. You may be familiar with the secure email service ProtonMail, and ProtonVPN comes from the same company and offers many of the same features that the best VPN services do. Unlike many other services, you can use ProtonVPN without spending anything, making it a perfect option for those who want to try a VPN out without committing financially.ProtonVPNTry it for free at ProtonVPNProtonVPN has a bunch of different pricing options that range from a free plan to as much as $24 per month. The best offer is the two-year plan which has a discount of 34% right now.The free ProtonVPN plan allows you to browse privately and securely without a financial commitment. It has no data or speed limits (common with other free VPNs) and doesn't show you ads in order to make money (again, commonplace in other free VPNs). ProtonVPN also doesn't log your data and is protected by Swiss privacy laws.A...
Daily COVID-19 updates: Global phone sales fall by 20% in Q1 2020
The coronavirus has spread to 188 countries around the world, and it shows no signs of abating. The pandemic has proved particularly devastating in recent weeks, with total confirmed cases crossing 5.5 million and fatalities of over 347,000 globally.The virus has effectively shut down all sporting leagues around the world, major gatherings including tech events and music festivals, and closed down restaurants and malls. It has transformed how we live and work, and how we connect with our friends and families. Tech brands are doing their part to assist, with Google teaming up with Apple to build a coronavirus tracking tool.Here's the latest on the coronavirus and how it's affecting not only the tech industry, but also the world at large.June 1, 2020: Global phone sales take a nosedive in Q1 2020We're continuing to see huge spikes in COVID-19 cases around the world. Brazil and Russia in particular have been hit hard in recent weeks, with cases in both countries rising over the...
Take your PS4 gaming to new heights with these awesome arcade pads
Take your fighting game to the next level with an arcade pad for PlayStation 4. When it comes to precision, a standard controller just can't compare. Luckily, whether you want the best of the best or a budget option for beginners, you have a few choices to choose from. Be mindful of what suits your needs the most and where your money is best spent.The best packageRazer PantheraStaff pickRazer offers the best total fight stick package for the PS4. It has all the customizable fighting buttons you need, plus all the other PlayStation-specific components that others just don't have.$130 at GameStopNo nonsenseHORI Real Arcade Pro 4 KaiHORI doesn't offer the customization as other high-end sticks, but you still get top-tier quality with the company's proprietary Hayabusa joystick and buttons for smooth and accurate input. It's all the control you'll ever need.$150 at AmazonBudget-friendlyMayflash F300Great for beginners without spending an arm and a ...
YouTube pledges $1 million to police reform nonprofit
As protests spread across the U.S, companies like Alphabet stand up for social justice.What you need to knowYouTube has pledged $1 million to the Center for Police Equity amid protests in the U.S.The Center is a think-tank that has adopted a data-driven approach to tackling police brutality.YouTube's algorithm has been criticized as being a funnel towards white supremacist content.As the protests against police brutality in the U.S. intensified over the weekend, YouTube made a move towards solidarity with the protests. The company announced a $1 million donation towards a non-profit aimed at tackling police racism and brutality in the community.The organization in question is the Center for Policing Equity, a non-profit organization aimed at reducing the incidence of police brutality in the U.S."Center for Policing Equity can measure bias in policing. That means we can stop it," their home page reads, "1 in 5 Americans interacts with law enforcement yearly. Of those...
Samsung’s Galaxy S20 series starts getting the June 2020 security update
The update doesn't come with any new features or significant improvements.What you need to knowSamsung has started rolling out the June 2020 security patch for the Galaxy S20 series.Along with the latest Galaxy S20 series, unlocked Galaxy S10 and Note 10 series phones in the U.S. are also receiving the June security update.The international variants of the Galaxy S20 series phones will likely start receiving the June 2020 patch within the next few days.Samsung has started pushing the latest June 2020 Android security patch to its flagship Galaxy S20 series phones. For now, however, the update is rolling out only to the unlocked models in the U.S. Along with the Galaxy S20 series, the U.S. unlocked Galaxy S10 and Note 10 series phones have started receiving the June security patch as well.As per SamMobile, the latest update for the Galaxy S20 series doesn't bring anything else apart from the June 2020 Android security patch. Owners of the U.S. unlocked Galaxy S20 Ultra wil...
Snag this Kasa Smart Plug on sale for only $10 at Amazon right now
Making lamps and appliances in your home smarter is more affordable than you might think. Right now Amazon has TP-Link's Kasa Smart Plug (HS103) on sale for just $9.99, and at $8 off its regular cost, you'll be scoring one of the best deals to ever reach this model. It's capable of being controlled using an app on your phone or even with your voice. Select customers will even see an additional 30% coupon on the product page to save $3 more on the purchase.Once this smart plug is plugged into an outlet in your home, you can begin turning electronics on and off from anywhere using an app on your phone. All you have to do is plug that device into the smart plug and download the free Kasa app to get started. With the app, you can control whether the plug is on or off even when you're not at home. Plus, it can be voice controlled when you connect it with an Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device, like the Echo Dot smart speaker.Whether you're just being lazy and don't want to get out...
Best Free VPN Service 2020
Did you know that a free VPN could be the best one for you? By now you've likely heard the phrase Virtual Private Network or VPN, but you may not have already signed up and started using one. A great VPN service can add an extra layer of security to your phone, tablet, PC, and even gaming console. They've become increasingly popular over the past few years, and for good reason.Best Free VPNsHotspot Shield: Our top pickProtonVPN: Unlimited bandwithTunnelBear: User friendlyWindscribe: Earn extra free dataHide.me: No data logs at allSpeedify: Did we mention fast?SurfEasy: Built in to OperaIt's hard to live these days without entering some type of sensitive data online. Be it your banking details, passwords, social security number, or just a home address, you probably don't realize how much personal data you use online daily. Unfortunately public Wi-Fi confections, like the ones at airports, Starbucks, etc are not protected, and someone with bad intentions could spy on or...
How to watch CMT Celebrates Our Heroes live from anywhere
CMT's annual Artists of the Year show is back with a special event for 2020. CMT Celebrates Our Heroes will go live later this week to recognize Americans from across the country who are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic with a two-hour celebration and tribute event unlike any other.Some of Country music's biggest stars will be performing at the event, so it's certainly not a night to be missed. From Brothers Osborne and Florida Georgia Line to Kelsea Ballerini, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, and Miranda Lambert, the list goes on. Each of the performances will be filmed directly from the artists' homes and virtually produced by CMT to keep everything looking and sounding great.Other celebrities and performers coming to the show include Blake Shelton, Bobby Bones, Jason Aldean, Keith Urban, Reba McEntire, Scarlett Johansson, Sean Penn, Zac Brown, Brandi Carlile, Darius Rucker, Tim McGraw, and Thomas Rhett. CMT also revealed a few surprise cameos from guests like Carrie...
Connect your phone to Android auto with the best USB-C cables
When it comes to plugging your smartphone into your Android Auto head unit, you want a cable that is more than just the one out of the box. The cable needs to be able to withstand bends, sudden removals, spills, and so much more. We have found some of the best USB-C cables that you can get for Android Auto.Perfect optionAnker Powerline+ USB C to USB A CableStaff PickAnker's charging cables are practically unmatched in terms of quality and value. The Powerline+ series of cables is extremely impressive with the braided nylon exterior, which is said to last six times longer than the competition.$14 at Amazon$14 at NeweggAngled connectionsAUKEY Right Angle USB C to USB A Braided CableSome times you can't use the traditional charging cable, as it sticks out too far, and you need something that can fit into a tight space. AUKEY's 90-degree Braided Cable will help solve that issue as both the USB-C and USB-A connections come in at a right-angle. This will allow yo...
Get a free Echo Show 5 with the Ring Video Doorbell Pro in this refurb deal
If you're looking for a killer Ring Video Doorbell deal, look no further than this refurbished bundle offering a factory reconditioned Ring Video Doorbell Pro with a free Echo Show 5 at Amazon. The pair of devices are going for only $179 there — the same price that the doorbell alone goes for — making it a total no-brainer to get the smart display at no extra cost. It would normally go for around $60 in refurbished condition and works wonderfully well with Ring's video doorbells.Brand new versions of the Ring device and the Echo Show 5 would run you almost $320.These two devices make a great pairing, hence the bundle. The Echo Show 5 has a 5.5-inch compact display and Alexa built right in. You can use it to control your entire smart home, but you can also use Alexa to check in on your Ring device and see who's at the door. Thanks to the Video Doorbell Pro's built-in speakers and mic, you can talk to visitors without leaving your kitchen. You can also get alerts sent straight ...
How to start an exercise workout on a Samsung Galaxy smartwatch
When looking at wrist computers, because that's what they really are — right? — that are available in the market, you can choose between fitness trackers and smartwatches. However, many smartwatches function as both a watch, notification assistant, and a fitness tracker in one. Some do these things very well, and Samsung Galaxy watches are some of those that are among the best for fitness. Let's look at how to start a workout with your Galaxy smartwatch.Products used in this guideWork it out: Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 44mm (From $298 at Amazon)Centrally located: Samsung Health (Free at Google Play Store)How to start an exercise workout on a Samsung Galaxy smartwatchThere are multiple ways to start a workout on your watch, depending on how you set yours up, but the one way that is on all Galaxy smartwatches is through the Samsung Health app.Press the apps button on your watch to show all of the available apps.Scroll to the Samsung Health app and tap it.Find work...
Vivo X50 series brings gimbal-like image and video stabilization to phones
Vivo's latest flagship is the first phone to feature a gimbal system for image and video stabilization.Vivo continually pushes the boundaries for innovation, and with its 2020 flagship, the Chinese manufacturer is focusing on image and video stabilization. The X50 series is the first in the world to feature a camera module that offers gimbal-like stabilization when shooting photos and videos. There are three phones in the series — the Vivo X50, X50 Pro, and the X50 Pro+ — with all devices featuring the gimbal system.Vivo says the new phones offer "professional-grade camera technologies" that revolutionize "mobile photography." Here's a rundown of the feature, straight from Vivo: Modelled after a full-size professional gimbal, X50 Pro's built-in gimbal module moves in the opposite direction of shaking motions, providing increased stability for the main camera. This system also widens the rotation angle and anti-shake area compared to popular stabilization methods, resultin...
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