Feed androidcentral Latest from Android Central

Favorite IconLatest from Android Central

Link https://www.androidcentral.com/
Feed http://www.androidcentral.com/rss.xml
Updated 2025-07-14 11:46
Google Meet vs. Zoom: Which conferencing tool is better for you?
Best for quick meetingsGoogle MeetsFrom $6/ mo. at GoogleProsShare screenSend files through chatFree for everyone to useNo additional fee for call-in participantsAdditional tools with G Suite subscriptionConsMessy dashboard compared to ZoomCan host fewer participantsClunky and unreliable for Mac usersGoogle Meet comes free with your G Suite subscription for unlimited video conferencing or free to everyone for meetings up to 60 minutes long. This program is pretty basic but has all the collaboration tools you'll need to conduct productive meetings.Best for larger groupsZoomFrom $15/ mo. at ZoomProsCollaboration toolsFree account availableConnects to conferencing equipmentWorks with all operating systems including LinuxHost up to 500 people ConsCall-in access costs extraMust disable popup blockers to useZoom is the best program for connecting to conferencing equipment such as telecoms and webcams to allow several people to join...
Hop into video conference with Google Meet or Microsoft Teams
Best OverallGoogle MeetFree, From $6/mo at GoogleProsFree for all to useWorks on all platformsReal-time collaboration toolsNo extra charge for call-inConsGoogle account required for accessConnection may drop for Mac usersGoogle Meet is free for everyone to use, including businesses. All you need is your personal Gmail account or a free G Suite Essentials account. Business accounts give you access to all real-time collaboration tools and the ability to record and save your meetings.For Microsoft 365 UsersMicrosoft TeamsFree, from $5/mo at MicrosoftProsUse basic collaboration tools for freeEncrypted meetingsUp to 10,000 participants for live streaming eventsConsCall-ins cost an additional feeWebinar support also costs extraMost tools require a Microsoft 365 subscriptionMicrosoft Teams have tools to hold video meetings with up to 10,000 people. Meetings can be recorded and saved to OneDrive to share or reference later. Teams works ...
5 reasons Google Meet is better than Zoom for the average person
Skip the Zoom drama and Meet a better way to video chat.Living alone, the only way I see my friends and family right now is video chatting apps, and there certainly are plenty to choose from these days. Zoom has been the in-vogue video app of the last several weeks, but since that Google Meet is free for everyone this summer, you should absolutely move your chats over to Meet instead.While Google Meet was built for enterprise as a way to host weekly staff meetings and host company-wide briefings, it has several advantages for the everyday chat with your parents or that weekly coffee gossip your mom has with her friends.No plugins or desktop apps requiredThe first and biggest reason to jump over to Meet is that Zoom requires you to install either an app or a browser extension (depending on your device), and even then, Zoom can still get wonky unless you turn off your pop-up blocker, which most browsers leave on by default these days because pop-ups are the absolute worst.G...
Google Meet is now free, but do you need an account to use it?
Best answer: Even though Google is making its video conferencing platform Meet free, you'll still technically need a Google account to use it. I say technically, because there is at least one way you can use Meet without an account, which we'll address below.Desktop version: Google Meet (See at Google)Mobile app: Google Meet (See at Google Play Store)What is Google Meet?Google Meet (formerly Hangouts Meet) is part of Google's enterprise-level software offerings known as G Suite. As an enterprise product, G Suite is not a free service; rather, it is a paid service whose fees are based on the number of users in an organization.While Google is planning on making a version of Meet available for free in direct response to the meteoric rise in popularity of services like Zoom, the version that non-enterprise users will be getting is scaled back in some areas. For example, free Meet sessions will be limited to one-hour increments, and features like dial-in phone numbers and the...
Why might you use Google Meet over other video conference solutions?
Best answer: Google Meet is one of Google's videoconferencing platforms that comes bundled as part of the company's enterprise software package known as G Suite. Google is making Meet free to use from May through September 2020, and it is a solid alternative to other popular video platforms.Desktop version: Google Meet (See at Google)Mobile app: Google Meet (See at Google Play Store)What is Google Meet?Meet is Google's version of an enterprise or corporate videoconferencing solution. It's included as part of its G Suite platform, and is meant to compete against similar premium offerings like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Cisco WebEx, and GoToMeeting, just to name a few.Google Meet can be used in a web browser or through an Android or iOS app on your smartphone or tablet, and can host up to 250 people simultaneously. It also has useful features like screen sharing and in-conference chatting. If your G Suite administrator has enabled the function, you can record the meeting to allo...
Show your colleagues exactly what you're talking about through Google Meet
Whether you're socially distancing or if working from home is the norm for you, a video conferencing tool like Google Meet can be a lifesaver for staying connected and productive. However, sometimes you need a bit more firepower than your smiling face, particularly when you want to show your colleagues what you're talking about. We'll show you the simple steps to share your screen during your next Google Meet session.How to share your screen on a Google Meet call in a browserFrom an active Google Meet call, click on Present Screen at the bottom right of the screen.Choose whether you want to share your entire screen, a specific window, or a specific Chrome tab (this is new).When you're done sharing your screen, click the blue button at the top left of the screen that says Stop, or click on the link at the bottom right of the screen that says or click here to return to the video call when you're ready to stop presenting.That will take you back to the Google Meet window, w...
Plan your next video call by scheduling a Google Meet in Google Calendar
All users can take advantage of this feature throughout the summer.Google Meet is a fantastic collaboration platform, particularly for those who are on distributed teams or who are working from home. As you can imagine, it integrates seamlessly with other G Suite apps like Gmail and Calendar, and you can not only send out invitations through those apps but you can also schedule future Meet sessions based on your team's availability. Currently only paid G Suite subscribers can schedule Google Meet sessions, but thanks to Google's recent announcement that Meet will be free through the summer, all users will be able to take advantage of this feature soon. Let's dive into just how to get started.How to schedule a Google Meet in Google Calendar on mobileOpen the Google Calendar app on your smartphone or tablet.Tap on the multicolored + button at the bottom right of the screen.Tap on Event.Scroll down, and tap Add conferencing.Tap Google Meet.Set a time, add participants, and...
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 until June ...
The best VPN service is now 49% off and gives you three free months
There are a ton of VPN services out there you could try out, but ExpressVPN will likely be the last. Not only is it our favorite VPN service of them all, but its latest deal makes it even more affordable to sign up than usual. For a limited time, you can save 49% off its annual subscription plan and score three additional months for free in the process. That means your subscription will last 15 months for less than $7 per month; the plan must be paid for in full at the time of purchase.Security SavingsExpressVPNStumped on which VPN service to choose? ExpressVPN's latest offer makes this one a no-brainer as it's already one of the best around. Score a year of service at 49% off and three free months along with it for a limited time.$6.95/month $12.95/month $94 OffSee at ExpressVPNWe suggest using a VPN, or Virtual Private Network, just about any time you're using a public Wi-Fi network so you can keep your private data secure, but there are plenty of reasons why you should...
These are the best cases for the Amazon Fire HD 10
We love how easy the Fire HD 10 tablet makes it to look up recipes, watch your favorite shows, surf the internet, play games, or purchase items from Amazon. However, these tablets aren't cheap, so you'll want to protect yours from potential damages. We've done our research and determine which were the best Fire Tablet cases on the market. See which one fits your needs.All the colorsMoKo Folding CaseStaff pickGive your Fire Tablet an elegant-looking, protective covering with this slim-fold design. The front cover doubles as a stand so you can watch YouTube videos and Prime Video shows hands-free. There's even a hand strap inside so you can hold your tablet more securely. Choose from 35 different designs to pick the one that best matches your style.From $20 at Amazon From $21 at AmazonBudget buyJETech CaseThis inexpensive case looks stylish in its simplicity. The front flap folds over into a stand so you can prop your tablet up when watching Netflix or playing games...
How to watch Solar Opposites: Stream the new Rick & Morty-like show
Fans of Rick and Morty have a whole new show to check out from series co-creator Justin Roiland. The new animated sitcom Solar Opposites centers on a family of aliens who've been sent to find and conquer another world after their own planet is destroyed by an asteroid. Tagging along is Pupa, a comical, blob-like supercomputer whose ultimate goal is to rule the planet — if the aliens can fit into human society on earth long enough, that is.Similar to shows like Rick and Morty or South Park, Solar Opposites is intended for adult audiences and littered with content that's inappropriate for the little ones. However, if you're a fan of these animated adult sitcoms, there's a good chance Solar Opposites will be right at home in your watchlist.Solar Opposites: When & whereSolar Opposites premieres exclusively on Hulu on Friday, May 8. You won't have to wait to watch any of the episodes either, as all eight episodes of season 1 will be released that same day. Hulu generally relea...
Should you choose Garmin Forerunner 245 or the Vivoactive 4?
Ideal running companionGarmin Forerunner 245$248 at AmazonProsBuilt-in GPSAdvanced running metricsLonger battery life in GPS modePulse Ox sensorConsLacks altimeterNo Garmin PayMusic version costs moreIf running is your true passion, you can't go wrong with this GPS running smartwatch. In addition to advanced running dynamics, this model also offers extensive training features, a Pulse Ox sensor, and incident detection.Comprehensive smartwatchGarmin Vivoactive 4$270 at AmazonProsBuilt-in GPSPulse Ox sensorGarmin PayTwo size optionsMusic comes standardConsLacks advanced running dynamicsShorter battery life in GPS modeFor those who like doing a multitude of sports rather than just one, this GPS smartwatch will serve you well. It's equipped with over 20 sport modes, after all. You also get a touchscreen, an altimeter, and Garmin Pay.When you take a step back and perform a side-by-side comparison of these two smartwatches, yo...
Best VPN Deals 2020: Discounts, coupons & more
In this new decade, you're only going to spend yet more of your life online which means a VPN is quite important. You can try and avoid it but, honestly, it's pretty much impossible to do. It's important that you have security and privacy at the front of your mind as you traverse the online world, especially with the amount of sensitive data we out on our devices and send via the internet. If you use public Wi-Fi networks while out and about, that's even more important.Best VPN Deals Available NowExpressVPN: 3 mo. free + 40% offIPVanish: $3.25 per monthNordVPN: Save 70% on 3-year planPureVPN: 7-day trial for $1PIA VPN: 2 months freeSurfshark: From 7 cents/dayMore Deals: $20 lifetime acccess & free optionsOdds are that you have heard of VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, before but may not have signed up for one just yet. There are some common misconceptions about VPNs, especially that they are super expensive, but that's not at all the case — especially if you k...
This tool translates 112 languages in any format instantly
Technology is a global industry. For those working in it, that means you may be tasked with communicating across multiple languages. Whether your company works consistently with foreign language partners or you're just doing a one-off project with an international team, it's valuable to have translation services in place. When Google Translate isn't enough, LingvaNex Translator takes you that extra mile.LingvaNex Translator was named a #1 Product of the Week on Product Hunt and has earned a 4.4-star rating on the Google Play Store. Created by expert linguists, LingvaNex Translator aims to enable people to read, write, and speak different languages anywhere in the world, instantaneously.Boot it up, and you can translate text, voice, images, websites, and documents into over 110 languages in just moments. Whatever you input, regardless of language, LingvaNex Translator will release a strong translation so you can communicate more seamlessly and keep moving forward. You can keep a hi...
Samsung Pay to launch debit card, new 'mobile money management platform'
Samsung Pay will help you do more with your money this year.What you need to knowTo elevate the Samsung Pay experience, Samsung is partnering with SoFi to launch an "innovative" debit card.The new debit card will run on a new mobile-first money management platform. Samsung Pay support for your phone will remain.In August 2015, Samsung introduced its mobile payment service called Samsung Pay in South Korea. Just a month later, Samsung Pay expanded to the U.S. While it isn't the most widely available mobile payment service out there, its MST support — that lets you pay at traditional "swipe" readers with your phone — makes it the most flexible. While celebrating the five-year anniversary of Samsung Pay, the South Korean tech giant has announced that it will be launching an "innovative debit card" in partnership with San Francisco-based fintech company SoFi this summer. the value proposition is simplicity and mobile-first management of your money.While it hasn't sha...
Here's every U.S. city with 5G coverage right now
Kicking off the next generation of wireless.All of the major U.S. carriers are hard at work on their 5G strategy. AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon have launched 5G networks and are aggressively expanding those networks through 2019. 5G service not only provides faster speeds but also reduced response times allowing for new services and cloud computing not previously available. For now, the major difference between LTE and 5G will be speed but as coverage continues to roll out to new areas, more services that rely on instant connectivity should become possible.VerizonSprintT-MobileAT&TFrequencies and coverage Carrier Bands Verizon n261 (28GHz) Sprint n41 (2.5GHz) T-Mobile n71 (600MHz) n260 (39GHz) n261 (28GHz) AT&T n5 (850MHz) n260 (39GHz)Building a 5G network is a balance between capacity and coverage. With the high-frequency bands, known as mmWave, seen on all but Sprint, carriers get access to huge chunks of spectr...
Mother’s Day flower delivery: Save with the best deals, discounts & more
Mother's Day is coming up soon, and if you'll be far away from mom or just can't be there on the big day, there are a number of ways to make her feel special and loved. Flower delivery services are a reliable choice, but with so many sites to choose between, you might understandably feel a bit lost on which to pick and which can get your gift to mom, or grandma, or another loved one on time. The guide below will take you through the ins and outs of the best flower delivery services there are to help you make the decision and find mom a gift she'll adore.Best Flower Delivery Services1-800 FlowersFTD OnlineHarry & DavidProFlowersJustFlowersFlowers FastTelefloraWhether you want to send a big bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates, or if you have no clue what to send at all, the sites below will help you get your gift together and delivered on time for the big day. Delivery availability does vary depending on the items you select and where they're being sent.The ...
10 basic Android terminal commands you should know
You don't have to be a software developer to know your way around the Android Debug Bridge.For a lot of us, the fact that we can plug our Android phone into a computer and interact with it is a big plus. Besides the times when we've broken something and need to fix it, there are plenty of reasons why an advanced Android user would want to talk to their device. To do that, you need to have a few tools and know a few commands. That's what we're going to talk about today.Granted, this won't be the end-all-be-all discussion of adb commands, but there are 10 basic commands everyone should know if they plan to get down and dirty with the command line.You'll need some tools and getting them is easy. Head on over to the Android developer's site. You can either install the full Android Studio package if you want extra debugging tools or you can scroll down to the bottom of the page and download just the command line tools. Unless you're developing or debugging something on or for your p...
Which Amazon Fire Tablet should you get?
When the original Kindle Fire was released way back in 2011, many thought Amazon was onto something with a low-cost, easy-to-use tablet experience. You know what? They were right! Today there are no fewer than six Fire tablet devices on offer from Amazon if you count the Kids Editions. Out of them all, we think the Fire HD 10 is the best overall value thanks to its size, better screen and speakers, and its ability to still hit an affordable price point.Best Overall: Fire HD 10 TabletIf you want the most immersive video and gaming experience on a Fire tablet, then you want a Fire HD 10. We know it's the most expensive Fire, but you know what? It's still darn affordable! Try finding another Android tablet or iPad of this size at anywhere close to this price.The newly-updated Fire HD 10 is the only Amazon tablet with a full HD 1080p display, coming in at 1920x1200 resolution. It offers up to 12 hours of battery life, including video watching, web browsing, and music listening, a...
Use Google Assistant on the go with a pair of headphones
While our smartphones are getting smarter over time with A.I, manufacturers are finding more ways to make everyday life more manageable. One of those ways is getting the Google Assistant on as many devices as humanly possible. One product category where the Assistant has become super useful in is headphones. Google's own Pixel Buds (2020) are a great example. They give you easy access to the Assistant while also adding additional functionality.Best Overall: Google Pixel Buds (2020)The Google Pixel Buds (2020) are a fantastic set of true wireless earbuds. Unlike some other options on this list, you'll be able to summon the Assistant both hands-free or with a dedicated gesture on the earbuds.In terms of sound, the Pixel Buds are great. They feature a slightly boosted bass, a great midrange, and a slightly recessed treble that can sometimes sound hollow. True wireless earbuds aren't typically known for their great sound quality, but the Pixel Buds are up there.The buds offer u...
Give mom a Masterclass All-Access Pass and score a free one for yourself
We learn a lot from our moms, and this Mother's Day, Masterclass is giving you a fantastic opportunity to give some knowledge back. The Masterclass All-Access Pass unlocks unlimited access to all of Masterclass' instructors and courses, so whether mom wants to learn cooking from Gordon Ramsay or filmmaking from Martin Scorsese, a Masterclass All-Access Pass can make it happen and at a major discount.The Masterclass All-Access Pass generally costs $180 per year, though right now, you can score two passes for the price of one. That's like snagging each one at 50% off, and in the process you'll end up with a pass for mom and another for yourself. You'll just want to make sure you take advantage of this offer soon as it's only set to last through May 11.Two for oneMasterclass Mother's Day saleThe Masterclass All-Access Pass gives you unlimited access to all of the Masterclass courses for an entire year, and today you can score two for the price of one!$180 $360 $180 OffSee at...
DiRT 5 makes its big debut, coming to both PS5 and Google Stadia
Codemaster's next off-road racer will hit PS5 alongside Xbox Series X with a Stadia debut to follow in 2021.What you need to knowDiRT 5 was revealed during Microsoft's Xbox Series X showcase for the first time.Due to launch in October, it will be available on PS5 as well as PS4, Xbox One and Steam.Google Stadia debut set for early 2021.Codemasters has revealed its first next-gen racer, with DiRT 5 bringing us a new dose of off-road fun and games in late 2020. DiRT 5 was first teased earlier this week and was shown off for the first time during Microsoft's Xbox Series X showcase. The title has also been confirmed for release on both PS4 and PS5, as well as Google Stadia which will follow behind in early 2021.DiRT 5 is a little different to the fairly focused DiRT Rally series, but will be no less exciting and no less global in its settings. DIRT 5's global journey takes in some of the most thrilling, exotic, and picturesque settings such as New York City and Rio de Jan...
How to use your Android phone as a webcam for video calls
Don't want to spend money on a webcam? You don't have to.With lots of folks working from home and video calls being used in place of face-to-face meetings, you're probably spending a lot of time in front of your computer. Services like Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype are the new conference rooms for workers all around the world, but they don't come without their quirks.If you're taking these calls from your computer's built-in webcam, chances are your video quality is pretty bad. Having a crisp image of yourself is helpful for getting the most out of your meetings, but if you're having to deal with a camera that's super grainy and struggles in low light, you may find yourself pretty aggravated during all of these virtual calls.Thankfully, there is a way around this. You could go out and buy a proper webcam for your computer, or you could take your Android phone and just turn it into one. Seriously!Interested in learning how to do this? Keep on reading!How to use your phone as ...
The first Assassin's Creed Valhalla gameplay trailer is here
Get ready to raid some villages and conquer new lands.The next Assassin's Creed was revealed by Ubisoft through a livestream where graphic designer BossLogic worked some magic to create artwork for the game. As previous rumors suggested, it does take place during the time of Vikings. If the world premiere trailer is anything to go by, it promises a lot of bloody battles. Assassin's Creed Valhalla is being developed by Ubisoft Montreal, with support from 14 other studios around the world.Assassin's Creed Valhalla: SettingAssassin's Creed Valhalla: Story and charactersAssassin's Creed Valhalla: GameplayAssassin's Creed Valhalla: Release date and platformsViking raidsAssassin's Creed Valhalla$60 at Best BuyConquer new lands for glory and honorAfter endless wars ravage Norway and resources are scarce, you'll lead your clan to the shores of England in the hopes of finding a new home. But not everyone is keen on having Vikings around, and King Alfred of Wessex will d...
These are the best smart thermostats if you have multiple zones
You're not always going to be in the room that houses your thermostat. For some homes, that can mean a pretty substantial difference in temperature in every season. There's a fix for this common problem, though: smart thermostats with multiple zoning like our favorite the Ecobee SmartThermostat. Being able to set the temperature where you are instead of where the thermostat is can be a lifesaver.Best Overall: Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice ControlThe Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control is the best smart thermostat for multi-zone heating and cooling, and one of the best thermostats you can buy overall. It's compatible with all popular smart home platforms — Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, Wink, and Microsoft Cortana — and is fully controlled via an app on your phone. It also has a full-color touch display if you'd rather go hands on.As a bonus, the Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control also has a microphone and is a stand-al...
Samsung’s One UI 2.1 update is now rolling out to the Galaxy A51
Unfortunately, the mid-range phone isn't getting any of the new Galaxy S20 camera features.What you need to knowSamsung is now pushing the One UI 2.1 update to the Galaxy A51.The update brings improved AR Emoji, Quick Share, Music Share, and an updated Gallery app.It includes the April 2020 Android security patch too.Samsung began rolling out the One UI 2.1 update for its 2019 flagship smartphones in late March. Last month, it shifted focus to its mid-range portfolio by rolling out the update to the Galaxy S10 Lite and Note 10 Lite. The One UI 2.1 has now started rolling out to the Galaxy A51, which was launched in December last year with One UI 2.0 out of the box.As per SamMobile, the One UI 2.1 update for the Galaxy A51 arrives as version A515FXXU3BTD4 and weighs in at 1.2GB in terms of size. The update adds an updated version of the Gallery app, Quick Share, Music Share, AR Emoji improvements, and an enhanced Samsung keyboard. Samsung has included the April 2020 securi...
Over a million books are available for free on Amazon Kindle Unlimited
If you're looking for more ways to stay entertained in self-isolation, then you can't go wrong with Amazon Kindle Unlimited. Especially if you can try it out for free. A two-month trial of the all-you-can-read eBook service is yours for the low, low price of $0 for a limited time giving you endless reading material for the next several weeks stuck indoors. The deal is only available for new or former Kindle Unlimited users and expires at the end of June.The subscription service normally costs $9.99 a month, so you're saving $20 with this deal. Last July, Amazon gave away three months of the service to its Prime members but unlike that offer, this deal does not require you to be a Prime subscriber so anyone can get in on it.Kindle Unlimited gives you access to over a million titles, spanning from technical documents to cookbooks to fantasy novels to nonfiction. Even some audiobooks are included. Need a self-help book? Want to re-read the Harry Potter books for the seventeenth time...
Disney Plus Price: Bundles, Deals & How To Get A Year Free
It may have taken its sweet time getting here, but the long-anticipated Disney Plus (or Disney+) streaming service is now available in a bunch of countries — soon to be fifteen! It's made its way in a space that's already pretty crowded, standing out thanks to its exclusive family-friendly offerings from not only from Disney itself, but also Star Wars, Marvel, National Geographic, and 20th Century Studios.The size of the catalog may not rival Netflix and the competition just yet, but there are already some awesome Disney+ originals, and more are set to come in the future.Odds are you're interested, but still unsure how much a Disney+ subscription costs right? Well, there are several different plan options for Disney+ that you can sign up for, making the price for Disney+ range from $6.99 to $12.99 per month. The lower cost is the best Disney+ price you'll get right now — with one big exception — while the more expensive is a pretty sweet Disney+ bundle that you'll need to c...
JBL's Free X true wireless earbuds are down to just $60 today only at B&H
True wireless earbuds are the future, and that future is surprisingly affordable. Gone are the days of having to spend $200 and up for a reliable set of Bluetooth buds. With this deal on the JBL Free X true wireless earphones, you only need to spend $60. That's thanks to a one-day sale that is offering a $50 price cut on their usual going rate, as well as a further 40% discount at checkout. All told, you're saving $90, though the deal ends tonight or when sold out.The JBL Free X offer 4.5 hours of playback per charge, and the compact carrying case can provide an additional 20 hours of usage time. One neat feature is the ability to fast-charge the earbuds — a 15-minute charge can provide the Free X earbuds with up to an hour of battery life. You can use one headphone at a time with auto-switching between mono and stereo modes and the built-in mics allow you to use them to make and take calls when connected to your phone.The earbuds use Bluetooth 4.2 for a solid true wireless con...
Google Lens picks up productivity updates for the stay-at-home life
A helpful tool gets even more helpful for home working.What you need to knowGoogle Lens gets a few updates to improve its productivity.These updates include smart copy and paste, in-line search, and a Listen function for learning foreign languages.They will all be available on Android today, with Listen debuting on iOS in a later update. Google has announced a set of upgrades for Google Lens, its smart camera app. As we're all bound at home, naturally these updates are designed around making home life more convenient, here's a few of them.Cross-device copy and paste- Google Lens gains a new "copy to computer" feature with this update. Point your camera at any piece of text, including handwritten notes (for those with legible handwriting), and Google will let you copy and paste it to any laptop with a signed-in Chrome browser.Read out words - If you're taking the time to learn a new language during this period, Google Lens will help you with that. Lens now offers the ab...
Celebrity Watch Party: What is it, when it airs & how to watch
Fox is taking you inside the homes of some of your favorite celebs with its newest show, Celebrity Watch Party. The hour-long episodes will feature actors, musicians, and other stars as they discuss some of the biggest shows and news events on TV recently.With hit shows like Masterchef and So You Think You Can Dance pushed back due to studio closings, Fox quickly ordered Celebrity Watch Party to series with 10 unscripted episodes to air over the next few months. The show is based on the British series Gogglebox, and Fox has a good opportunity for the format to become as popular in the U.S. as it is in the U.K.The entire list of stars set to appear on Celebrity Watch Party hasn't been revealed just yet, but we do know that the first episode will feature guest stars Rob Lowe, Meghan Trainor, Joe Buck, Raven-Symoné, Master P and Romeo, JoJo Siwa, Steve Wozniak, Curtis Stone, and Robert and Kym Herjavec.Celebrity Watch Party is sure to be a unique event for audiences, and if it ...
Pandora partners with Hasbro to release new board game playlists
There are some certified bangers across the board.What you need to knowThanks to stay-at-home measures, some of us are playing more board games than ever.Pandora has released 12 new playlists for some of your favorite Hasbro board games. The list includes Monopoly, Operation, Battleship, Risk, Jenga and Connect 4.Pandora has today released new playlists for 12 of your favorite Hasbro board games, to make passing the time during lockdown even more enjoyable!Regarding today's new Pandora stated: On May 7, Pandora & Hasbro will partner to roll out fun playlists themed around classic board games like Monopoly, Battleship, Clue and more, for those families spending more time together at home.The games include Monopoly, Battleship, Candy Land, Twister, Risk. Trivial Pursuit and Jenga, many of which have featured in our own Best Board Games in 2020 run down. Here's a full list of all the games and their respective playlists!MonopolyReal estate mogulMonopolyO...
OnePlus 8 or Galaxy S10 Lite? One of these phones is a clear winner
The one to getOnePlus 8From $699 at OnePlusPros90Hz AMOLED displayTop-notch hardwareButtery-smooth performanceReliable camerasLong-lasting battery lifeConsNo wireless chargingWeak macro cameraWhen it comes to "value flagships," the OnePlus 8 is one of the best you can buy. Whether we're talking about the gorgeous design, 90Hz display, excellent performance, or long-lasting battery life, this is a phone that does it all. Compared to the Galaxy S10 Lite, we think the OnePlus 8 is worth the extra cash.Swing and a missSamsung Galaxy S10 Lite$650 at SamsungProsLarge, bezel-less displayFast processorDecent camerasBattery life is excellentConsDisplay is only 60HzNo wireless chargingBland plastic designThe Galaxy S10 Lite is an interesting device. At its core, it offers a well-rounded experience with high marks for performance, battery life, and cameras. Unfortunately, various shortcomings with its display and design make it a difficu...
Wink is moving to a subscription-only model for its smart home service
Wink users will need to act quickly in order to keep using the Wink service.What you need to knowWink is ending its free service and moving to a subscription-only model on May 13, 2020.The Wink subscription will be $4.99 per month and will include future service improvements beyond the current scope.Users who do not opt into the new subscription model will be unable to use their Wink Hubs after May 13, 2020.Anyone who has multiple smart home devices from different manufacturers knows how difficult it can be to get everything to mesh together. Does your device support Google Assistant, Alexa, or Apple HomeKit? Is it Z-Wave or Bluetooth? How about 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi? Wink was designed to erase all the worries of these complications by providing a hub that can understand just about any kind of wireless technology or integration, but Wink's mission may be taking a detour for some users in just under a week.In a blog post, Wink announced that its free services will only rema...
European countries rally around cross-border contact tracing solution
Seven countries have suggested using an app that would work for people traveling abroad.What you need to knowSeven European countries are collaborating on a contact tracing effort.They want to ensure that people can use the same app across multiple borders within the area. Backers include Italy, one of the hardest-hit countries in the region, and Germany.Seven European countries including Italy and Germany want to see a contact tracing app that will work across European borders so that people don't have to install a different app every time they visit another country.As reported by Reuters: A European coalition is forming around an approach to using smartphone technology to trace coronavirus infections that, its backers hope, could help to reopen borders without unleashing a second wave of the pandemic. Supporters of the phone-based approach from Austria, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Italy, Portugal and Switzerland this week backed a roadmap here to enable national...
Water smarter and save money with $50 off the Rachio 3 sprinkler controller
The Rachio 3 has a 12-zone version of its smart sprinkler controller, and it's currently $50 off through the Costco website. That brings the Rachio 3 down to $169.99 from $220. Right now it's the best deal on the Rachio 3. The 8-zone controller is going for $149 at Best Buy, so you get the flexibility of a 12-zone controller for just $20 more. And the 8-zone version is going for as much as $225 at other retailers. This is the rare Costco deal that doesn't seem to require a membership to get it, so the price should be available to everyone with free shipping.The smart controller is designed to work easily with your smartphone and your smart home thanks to built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and a long-distance Flex radio that will help it stay connected even if it's out in your garage somewhere. Use the intuitive app to schedule monitoring and adjust it from anywhere. You can also integrate it easily with your smart home, whether that means Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. Con...
GeForce Now gets another 19 titles including Population Zero
NVIDIA has another big batch of new titles coming into GeForce Now today.What you need to knowNVIDIA GeForce Now is a streaming service that allows PC players to stream games they own on various devices.19 new games are making their way to the service in the latest update.Population Zero is a brand new title launched on Steam earlier this week.NVIDIA's GeForce Now game streaming service continues its weekly catalog update cycle and today is announcing 19 new titles that are coming to the service, headlined by new release, Population Zero. In Population Zero, your ship was destroyed. With no chance of returning to Earth, you face an unknown frontier. There are 168 hours left until human extinction. Repair the reactor and restart your hibernation pod to save yourself. Fail and become a creature of nightmares. Unite with fellow colonists or destroy them all!Additionally, NVIDIA says that forthcoming title, Ghostrunner will have a playable demo on GeForce Now soon.The ...
Netgear's discounted Orbi mesh system can cover your whole home in Wi-Fi
Best Buy has Netgear's Orbi mesh Wi-Fi system on sale for just $249.99 today only. The discounted set includes one router and two satellites that give you a wide-reaching Wi-Fi signal through your whole home. You'd regularly pay over $300 for the 3-piece system and not much less than this for a refurbished version. Best Buy offers free shipping with today's purchase, though you could get your Orbi system quicker using free curbside pickup where available.The Orbi RBK43S system replaces your current router and any extenders you may have set up. It is capable of covering up to 6,000 square feet with a strong wireless internet connection and the satellites are compact enough to be placed conveniently around your home. The system offers speeds up to 2.2Gbps with MU-MIMO technology for supporting multiple connected devices at once. Despite being a 3-piece set — one router and two satellites — it all operates under a single network name for a seamless connection.If you're set up wi...
Here are the best kitchen products you can control by voice using Alexa
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 common 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 great kitchen products that you can control by voice using Amazon Alexa.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.$99 at Amazon$150 at Best BuyKitchen as...
Do you feel safe buying OnePlus phones?
Let's chat with the AC forums.When you decide to buy a phone from a company, you're placing your trust in it to keep your information protected, to treat you well, and to just do the right thing. It's a decision that shouldn't come lightly, but it's an aspect of buying a phone some of us probably don't think too much about.There's no such thing as a perfect phone company, an example being OnePlus. OnePlus makes some of the best Android handsets on the market, but it hasn't been without its fair share of controversies over the years.One of our AC forum members recently asked if it was safe to buy a OnePlus phone, and this is how a couple of our other members responded. mustang7757 05-05-2020 06:56 PM “ Yes , as a owner of 1+6 and 1+7 Pro definitely Reply B. Diddy 05-05-2020 07:22 PM “ The main ...
Review: Neato Botvac D7 is a powerful vacuum, but it cannot mop your floors
A powerful cleaner that sucks up everything from fur to debris.There are literally hundreds of robot vacuums on the market right now. Considering that they are a relatively expensive buy, it's not the easiest thing for the average consumer to compare them against each other. That being the case, it's hard to really know which devices will actually be good for your home. That's why I'm so keen on reviewing as many robot vacuums as I can.I tested the the Neato Botvac D7 for three weeks. During that time I was able to see both this unit's powerful cleaning capabilities as well as its weak areas. It doesn't have as many features as some other vacuums out there, but it is a powerful cleaning machine. Here's my full review of the Neato Botvac D7 robot vacuum.Powerful cleaningNeato Botvac D7 Bottom line: The Neato Botvac D7 is an ...
Can you use multiple accounts on the Oculus Quest?
Best answer: No, you can only have one user account per Oculus Quest. A method to add multiple users using sideloaded Android settings was seemingly patched out by Oculus shortly after it was discovered, and no new method has been found at the time of this writing.One account per family: Oculus Quest ($499 at Best Buy)Keep your Quest clean: Skin Friendly VR HMD Cleaning Wipes ($9 at VR Cover)Mi Quest es su QuestSeparate accounts on most gaming consoles enable different players to have their own settings, saves, friends lists, and (for children) blocked content. Despite Quest owners clamoring for multiple accounts since it was released — and despite Oculus telling UploadVR the company was "exploring multi-account support" in May of 2019 — no such support has emerged. Your only option to switch accounts is to factory reset your Quest and choose a new account during the startup process.This is a particular problem for parents who want to share the Quest with their childre...
Save money and learn a new language with Rosetta Stone's Mother's Day sale
I married into a French-speaking family, and they are wonderful people. My family, however, is filled with a whole lot of people who only speak English. My mom and dad in particular have taken to learning French phrases, which they try every time they talk to my father-in-law, who loves every attempt. And that's what Rosetta Stone's Mother's Day sale is all about — facilitating communication. Give your mom the gift of language with a subscription plan that covers unlimited learning on sale through May 11 on the Rosetta Stone website. Save $83 total on the 12-month Unlimited Languages subscription plan by getting it for $7.99 a month instead of its usual price closer to $15 a month. You can even upgrade to a lifetime of language learning for $199, which normally costs $300. Pay that price once and you'll have full access to everything Rosetta Stone offers, including all 24 languages, forever.Oui ouiRosetta Stone Unlimited Language subscriptionsInstead of picking one language, ...
Get a Google Nest Hub for free with your Nest Hello video doorbell purchase
Right now at BuyDig, you can buy a Google Nest Hub and Nest Hello video doorbell bundle for just $229. Considering that's the price of the doorbell alone, you're essentially getting Google's smart display thrown in for free. The Hub is valued at $129, or $79 on sale right now, so this is an incredible deal if you're in the market for some Google-based samrt home products like this. Shipping is free. Chalk and Charcoal color options are available, too.The Nest Hello Video Doorbell is a smart purchase for any homeowner. This video doorbell connects to your Wi-Fi network at home so you can view its live video feed using the Nest app on your smartphone or tablet from anywhere in the world. The app will send you alerts and let you speak with visitors at your door, and its motion and sound alerts can even notify you if someone's arrived before they ring your doorbell.It's equipped with 850nm infrared LEDs for clear night vision, and there's also a feature that lets you respond to visit...
How to fix OnePlus 8 performance problems
OnePlus offers one of the fastest and most consistent software experiences, so it's unlikely you're going to face many performance issues — particularly on the very powerful OnePlus 8. However, if you do run into slowdowns or stutters, troubleshooting is subsequently pretty fast most of the time because the software is simple. Here's how you can make sure your OnePlus 8 is running as smoothly as possible.Always restart before doing anything elseI know, it's silly, but before you go any further you need to try a device restart. "Turn it off and back on again" is actually solid advice in this situation. Sometimes you just have a misbehaving app or a stuck process that you can't easily track down — but you know for certain if you just restart your phone you'll be able to stop it. It'll also help you find out if it's a one-time issue or a recurring problem.Restarting the OnePlus 8 is different from many other phones. To restart, press and hold both the power button and volume u...
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra successor rumored to feature a 150MP camera
The new 150MP ISOCELL sensor is expected to be unveiled later this year.What you need to knowThe Galaxy S21 Ultra might come equipped with a 150MP main camera.It is also tipped to feature a 64MP telephoto sensor with OIS and a 12MP macro camera.Samsung is expected to announce its first 150MP camera sensor sometime in the second half of the year.Samsung's Galaxy S20 Ultra, despite its focus issues, is among the most impressive camera phones on the market right now. Its 108MP sensor uses 9-to-1 pixel binning to deliver bright and detailed 12MP shots, while the 48MP telephoto shooter is capable of taking impressive shots even at 10X zoom. If a new rumor is to be believed, the Galaxy S20 Ultra sucessor will arrive with a higher resolution primary sensor and a few other major upgrades.According to a leaker on a Korean forum (via SamMobile), the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra will feature a 150MP primary sensor. The 150MP sensor will apparently be joined by a 64MP telephoto lens, a ...
A good mechanical keyboard is the work-from-home product I can't go without
Here's why you should switch to a mechanical keyboard if you're working from home.I used a mechanical keyboard for the first time nearly a decade ago. It was a barebones office-focused keyboard with Cherry MX Blue switches, and while it wasn't much to look at, the experience of using a tactile switch immediately drew me into the world of mechanical keyboards.I went through over a dozen keyboards over the course of the last seven years to dial in on the perfect keyswitch for my use case. I finally settled on Cherry's MX Brown as it offers a similar level of tactile feedback as the MX Blue switch while being relatively quiet. If you've used a mechanical keyboard in the past and it was uncommonly loud, chances are you used one with the MX Blue switch. Thankfully, there are plenty of mechanical switches nowadays that don't make a lot of noise.My current keyboard of choice is the Das Keyboard 4Q. It comes with RGB backlighting and Cherry MX Brown switches, and it also has a few smar...
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 noise-cancelling headphones drop to just $43
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Bluetooth headphones have fallen to $42.99 at Newegg. That's $17 off their regular price and one of their steepese discounts ever. All you have to do to score the savings is enter coupon code 93XPJ65 during checkout. These headphones don't drop from their $60 price very often and the current discount matches its steepest ever.These headphones have an active noise-cancelling system that helps eliminate ambient noises. Whether that happens to be children screaming, an airplane's engine, or some other obnoxious sound you want to get rid of, you can focus on just your music with the Q20.You'll also get some Hi-Res Audio with the large, custom-designed 40mm drivers that produce exceptional sound. The high frequencies can reach up to 40 kHz, and the headphones have BassUp technology which can really get those lower frequencies thumping. It actually analyzes the sounds in real-time to instantly strengthen the bass output so you can feel it in your chest. Jus...
Epic Games' Unreal Engine adds support for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X
Unreal Engine 4.25 lets developers build games for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.What you need to knowEpic Games has introduced Unreal Engine 4.25, delivering "initial support" for the upcoming PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.The update includes production-ready ray tracing features, new VFX models, enhanced profiling, and much more. Epic has stated that it will roll out updates over the course of the year to better support devs working on games for the upcoming consoles. Epic Games has introduced Unreal Engine 4.25, and while there are dozens of new features to be excited about, the highlight is the support for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The game engine now offers "initial support" for next-gen consoles, but it is still a key milestone that should allow devs to start working on games to target the upcoming consoles. Unreal Engine 4.25 has all the tools that developers need to create incredible games for upcoming consoles.The new version comes with pl...
UK's Virgin Media and O2 to merge in $38 billion deal
Liberty Global and Telefónica are merging their U.K operations.What you need to knowTwo of the UK's biggest telecoms companies are merging.O2 and Virgin Media are joining forces in a 50-50 venture.The deal is said to be worth some £31 billion ($38 billion).Telefónica has today announced that it is merging its U.K operations with Liberty Global, meaning that Virgin Media and O2 are coming together in a 50-50 joint venture.A press release from the company: Liberty Global and Telefónica to merge their U.K. operations creating the leading fixed-mobile provider in the country Key Highlights 50-50 joint venture brings together Virgin Media, the U.K.'s fastest broadband network, and O2, the country's largest mobile platform Combination creates a stronger fixed and mobile competitor in the U.K. market, supporting the expansion of Virgin Media's giga-ready network and O2's 5G mobile deployment for the benefit of consumers, businesses and the public sector...
...645646647648649650651652653654...