Latest from Android Central

If you have already enabled two-factor authentication, you will not have to take any action.What you need to knowGoogle is adding a new account security feature for Nest users who haven't enabled two-factor authentication yetUsers will receive an email from Nest with a six-digit verification code whenever they log in to their Nest account. Two-factor authentication can be enabled in the Nest app using your phone number.Google had announced in February this year that it would be making two-factor authentication mandatory for Nest users this spring. The tech giant has now confirmed that it will start enforcing the security feature for Nest accounts beginning this month. It will notify users before making the security change and has asked users to ensure they have access to the email associated with their Nest account.Users who are yet to enable two-factor authentication or migrate to a Google account will receive an email from accounts@nest.com with a six-digit verificati...

The Ring Alarm 10-piece wireless security system has dropped to $179.99 at Costco. This deal is exclusively for Costco members, so you will need to join the warehouse to benefit from these savings. That's $40 off its regular price and the best deal around. Best Buy has a 5-piece system going for this price (although it does include a free Echo Dot).This is the 1st generation of the Ring Alarm system. The company released a 2nd generation just a few weeks ago, and you can see how the two versions compare right here. The problem with the 2nd generation is that it's more expensive, especially compared to a price drop like today's deal. The 5-piece version is $20 more expensive than Costco's 10-piece kit on sale here. Getting the extra contact sensors would cost you another $100.The 10-piece kit comes with the base station, a keypad, a motion detector, a range extender, and six contact sensors. The beauty of a modular system like this is you can add more as you need it. Want a couple...

Checking an overview of your tasks is now easier in Microsoft To Do.What you need to knowMicrosoft To Do has an update on Windows 10, Android, and iOS.The update adds a smart list of all your tasks and several other new features.Microsoft To Do's predecessor, Wunderlist falls out of support on May 6, 2020.Microsoft To Do has a fresh update on all major platforms. You can grab the latest version for Windows 10, Android, and iOS in each operating system's respective app store. The update adds a smart list feature that makes it easier to see an overview of all of your tasks.Here's the changelog for the Windows 10 version of Microsoft To Do: Want to have an overview of all your tasks? Introducing the All smart list, one of your top requested features. You'll now see all your tasks grouped by list. We didn't just stop at the All smart list, we now also have the Completed smart list so you can also see all the tasks you've checked off. Enable both in settings. If you...

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...

Need a nice affordable pair of headphones that can withstand the wear and tear of the gym? The Anker Soundcore Spirit X Bluetooth in-ear headphones are down to $19.99 with code 93XPJ53 at Newegg. Without the code they aren't going for $36, and that's the same price you'll find them going for at other retailers. We have seen these headphones go on sale before, but they have never dropped this low before. Today's price beats the last deal we shared, which was last year by the way, by a couple of bucks. The code only applies to the black version of the headphones as the other colors are selling for $38.These headphones are built to last at the gym. They have Anker's SweatGuard technology, which is specially designed to resist sweat. They are IPX7 rated, too, to resist other sources of water like rain or getting splashed by the pool. You definitely don't have to worry about water with these earphones.Plus, the headphones have 10mm dynamic drivers, which means you'll get powerful soun...

Group chats in Microsoft Teams can more than double in size, thanks to an update rolling out this month.What you need to knowThe maximum number of group chat participants will increase in Microsoft Teams this month.The update brings the maximum number of group chat participants from 100 to 250.The update is rolling out now and will be completed by mid-May.Microsoft Teams group chats can be significantly larger starting this month. A new update is rolling out now that increases the maximum number of group chat participants from 100 to 250. Petri reports that the update will be available to all Microsoft Teams tenants by mid-May, pointing toward the Microsoft 365 roadmap.Large group chats in Microsoft Teams have a few settings that make them easier to manage. For example, any chat with more than 20 people turns off Outlook automatic replies and Teams status messages, typing indicators, video and audio calling, and read receipts.Unfortunately, admins cannot limit a chat's ...

It isn't all that different from the Helio G80 that MediaTek announced in February.What you need to knowMediaTek Helio G85 is a new gaming-focused mobile chipset for budget phones.It is similar to the Helio G80 in most areas but packs a slightly faster GPU. The first phone to feature the Helio G85 chipset is the Redmi Note 9, which was announced last week. Earlier this year, MediaTek unveiled two new mobile chipsets for budget gaming phones – Helio G70 and Helio G80. The Taiwanese chipmaker today introduced another new budget gaming chipset, called the Helio G85.The latest addition to the company's gaming chipset series comes with a 1 GHz ARM Mali-G52 GPU and enhancements to the HyperEngine Game technology to provide a great gaming experience. Just like the Helio G80, the new Helio G85 uses two high-performance ARM Cortex-A75 cores operating at 2GHz, paired with six Cortex-A55 cores running at 1.8 GHz. The chipset is built using a 12nm process and boasts a "Resource Man...

This week, the gang meet up inside Animal Crossing: New Horizons for a special, super-meta, audio and video edition of the podcast! The Last of Us Part II spoilers have leaked, but you can avoid them. Carli, Jen, and Rebecca also team up for a conversation about vikings and Assassin's Creed Valhalla. Rebecca reviews the remake of Trials of Mana on PC — Of course there's Animal Crossing talk as well. Learn what's up for May Day and the upcoming Wedding Season!.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:WATCH NOW:LINKS:The Last of Us Part II spoilers have leaked, here's how you can block them (update) | Android CentralThe Last of Us Part II leakers identified by Sony, not affiliated with Naughty Dog | Android CentralEverything we know about Assassin's Creed Valhalla: Setting, gameplay, and release date | Windows CentralTrials of Mana on PC review: A remade classic ...

Huge networkVerizon PrepaidFrom $30 per month at VerizonProsHuge LTE networkHotspot includedEasy international optionsCustom Multi-line savingsConsNo hotspot on unlimitedDouble data only for new linesVerizon is well known for its vast LTE coverage and that carries over to the prepaid plans with lower prices on data. You can mix different plan sizes and still get multi-line savings so you don't have to buy any more data than you need. This can be a great option for families that need a lot of flexibility and great coverage.More dataBoost MobileFrom $30 per month at Boost MobileProsUnlimited data for lessHotspot data with every planGreat options for Mexico5G capable planConsMuch smaller networkNo international travel optionsAll things considered, Boost Mobile is a great budget option for many people, especially if they want to stay in touch with people in Mexico. Even with the 3GB plan, adding data is reasonably cheap and will be ...

Here's the lowdown on Samsung's newest Note.Every year, there are certain phones we just can't help but get excited about — one of which is the Galaxy Note. From the first Note that debuted in 2011 up to last year's Note 10, Samsung's stylus-equipped flagships are regularly some of the most interesting to hit the market.Samsung revamped its naming convention this year with the Galaxy S lineup, going from the S10 to the S20. We're expecting something similar for the Note lineup, meaning 2020 will see the launch of the Galaxy Note 20.From the latest specs, leaked renders, pricing rumors, and more, here's everything you need to know!We're expecting at least two modelsThe design is a mysterySpecs? Here's what we knowLook forward to an August releaseLet's discuss pricingDon't overlook the Note 10Today's NoteGalaxy Note 10+From $1,100 at Samsung$1,100 at Best BuyPlenty of specs and features for years to comeWhile we are excited to see what Samsung has to...

The TCL 65Q825 65-inch 4K HDR Roku TV is down to $999.99 today at Best Buy. This sale is part of Best Buy's Deals of the Day, which makes this a very temporary discount. The TV is only sold at Best Buy so no one else can beat it. It's priced at $2,000 through the TCL website, and Best Buy was most recently selling it for around $1,250. Today's deal is the lowest we've seen and amazing savings no matter how you look at it.Check out the Cordcutters review of this TV when it released last year. Nirave Gondhia said, "Why is the 8-series my new go-to recommendation for a TV? Simple — it's a QLED panel. Actually, it's much more than that — it also heralds in a new era in TVs thanks to mini-LED technology, which allows the TV to display much deeper and darker blacks than on any other TV."The mini LED technology gives you precise control of your TV's image quality, making brights as bright as ever and creating a beautiful contrast with the darks. You get tons of depth and dimension n...

Samsung Galaxy A51Bigger and better$400 at SamsungProsModern designVibrant AMOLED screenFantastic battery life48MP camera3.5mm headphone jackConsMacro lens is frivolous Aging hardwareThe Galaxy A51 has exciting new features that make it stand out. The new design on the back is joined by a 48MP primary camera, you get One UI 2.0 based on Android 10 out of the box, and the phone has outstanding battery life. The underlying hardware itself hasn't changed from last year, but if you're looking for a phone that covers the basics, the A51 is a great choice.Samsung Galaxy A50Still good value$300 at AmazonProsSame AMOLED panel as A51Same great battery lifeUsable 25MP camera3.5mm headphone jackConsFew future software updatesAging hardwareThe Galaxy A50 delivers most of the same features as the A51 for $100 less. It has the same AMOLED screen, the same great battery life, and with the Android 10 update now rolling out, the same One UI 2.0 inter...

This summer will bring promising new Chromebooks from HP for frontline workers and productive professionals.HP is debuting its latest line of business-class machines today, spearheaded with three new Enterprise Chromebooks. We have two more premium models — the HP PRO c640 Chromebook Enterprise and the HP ELITE c1030 Chromebook Enterprise — and a more budget-conscious HP Chromebook Enterprise 14 G6 that's aimed at frontline workers who are working harder than ever in the midst of this challenging year.For a $400 Chromebook, the Enterprise 14 G6 is pretty compelling. Like the HP Chromebook 14 G6 announced earlier this year, the Enterprise version is powered by a Celeron processor, has 14-inch touchscreen and non-touch screen options in HD or FHD quality, and its mil-spec tested shell is covered in a grippy coating that can stand up to the daily use and abuse of an overworked office. This model only has one USB-C port, but the tradeoff will be well-worth it for a second USB-A...

If you want a tablet that runs Android, there are plenty of cheap Android tablet deals worth looking at. Right now, Best Buy has one such deal worth your attention with the Lenovo Tab M10 HD tablet at $50 today only there. At $129.99, it's a solid option and only $10 more than it went during Cyber Monday sales. The deal is matched at Amazon.The Tab M10 tablet includes the eponymous 10-inch HD display, two front speakers with Dolby Atmos, and more. It's powered by a 2 GHz Snapdragon 429 processor, 2GB RAM, and has 32GB of internal storage plus support for microSD cards up to 256GB. It runs Android and has access to the Google Play Store for apps, lasts for around 8 hours per charge, and even has a built-in Kids Mode so you can feel safe handing it to your little ones.If you don't want to hook into the Amazon ecosystem with a Kindle Fire tablet or do the same with Apple and an iPad, this is a great deal. With Google Play, you'll be able to get all of the streaming apps, games, and ...

Memorial Day is coming at the end of May, and it's one of the biggest holidays of the year if you're looking for deals. It's an especially great time to look for 4K TVs. It's the perfect time in the yearly rotation for TVs because new models have been out long enough that retailers are eager to get rid of the previous year models, and this is also long enough for some of the new models to drop from those high-end MSRP prices.The holiday itself is still a couple weeks away, but that doesn't mean you have to wait to get some of the best Memorial Day sales. Best Buy is getting a headstart on the holiday with some amazing savings on the biggest names in TVs including Samsung, LG, TCL with those awesome Roku TVs, and more. Pick you brand, pick your size, and pick your price. You'll find the TV for you whether you want a small budget set for your kids' room or a 60 inch behemoth loaded with a robust smart platform for the living room.The sales at Best Buy tend to rotate, and many of thes...

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...

You don't have long left to get a gift for mom. Mother's Day is less than a week away but, if you're still looking for flowers, there's a sale at 1-800-Flowers that you need to check out. You can save as much as 40% there and its flowers and other gifts are still available for delivery in time for the big day on Sunday.The 1-800-Flowers service uses local florists in your area to deliver the flowers you select online. This site has one of the best selections of all the flower delivery sites and the personalization options mean you can get something truly custom. It also has a large selection of other gifts to send along with them. If you want to send more than just flowers this Mother's Day, this is a great site to shop on.We named 1-800-Flowers as one of the best flower delivery services and the limited-time Mother's Day discounts on flowers, baskets, candles, and more make it an even wiser choice. Customized bouquets are 15% off so you can create a bunch your mom will love. Alt...

It will be powered by Qualcomm's flagship Snapdragon 865 processor.What you need to knowLenovo's upcoming gaming smartphone will be the first to sport a pop-up selfie camera on the side.The phone is also expected to come with a 144Hz high-refresh-rate display and 90W fast charging. It is expected to be launched in the second of the year. In January this year, Lenovo teased the launch of a new gaming phone under its Legion brand. While it didn't confirm any launch date, it did release a poster confirming the presence of a Snapdragon 865 chipset under the hood. More recently, Lenovo shared a new poster on Weibo, teasing 90W wired charging speeds and a notch-less display. The folks at XDA Developers have now got their hands on official marketing videos for the Lenovo Legion gaming phone, revealing its design in full glory. The screenshots from the marketing videos reveal a gaming-centric design with a 3D texture on the back. Needless to say, the most distinguishing de...

Contact tracing only requires Bluetooth, not GPS location data.What you need to knowApple and Google will ban the use of location tracking in contact tracing apps.Contact tracing uses Bluetooth handshakes, not GPS location data to track who you've had contact with.The pair also confirmed that only one app per country will be allowed to use its technology.A report from Reuters has confirmed that Apple and Google will ban the use of location tracking in contact tracing apps designed to stop COVID-19.According to the report: Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google on Monday said they would ban the use of location tracking in apps that use a new contact tracing system the two are building to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. The Apple-Google decision to not allow GPS data collection with their contact tracing system will require public health authorities that want to access GPS location to rely on what Apple and Google have described as unstable, battery-dra...

A nice Bluetooth speaker is always good to have around and Best Buy has one deal you should snag if you're in the market for a new one. The JBL Clip 3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker regularly sells for up to $70, though right now the speaker is availble in an array of colors for only $39.99 there while supplies last. The price is being matched at Amazon and B&H, though the deal is set to expire tonight at Best Buy, so prices will likely rise everywhere come midnight.Though you're probably spending most of your time at home these days, the rugged JBL Clip 3 is the perfect Bluetooth speaker for taking on the go as it has an integrated carabiner clip that lets you hang it anywhere you'd like — from your bag, belt loop, backpack... it's up to you. Plus, it's completely waterproof so you can swim with it in the pool, sing with it in the shower, or even bring it white-water rafting. Its built-in rechargeable battery lasts for up to 10 hours on a single charge.There's also a built-in ...

It is expected to be a rebranded version of the Redmi K30 Pro.What you need to knowThe rumored POCO F2 Pro has been listed online by popular retailer GearBest.As per the listing, the F2 Pro will be the "most affordable" flagship and feature a "true full screen" design.POCO is expected to announce the F2 Pro sometime later this year. Last week, a report had claimed that the next POCO flagship will be priced significantly higher than the F1 and is going to be launched in several markets across Europe. The rumored POCO F2 Pro has now been listed by online retailer GearBest, reaffirming the phone's "similarities" to the Redmi K30 Pro and hinting at an "affordable" price tag.Unsurprisingly, the listing does not contain actual renders or tech specs of the upcoming phone. The listing only includes a few "teasers" that suggest the POCO F2 Pro will be a rebranded version of the Redmi K30 Pro. The teasers reveal a circular camera module identical to the Redmi K30 Pro and a "true fu...

SnowRunner should look even better on PS4 Pro soon!What you need to knowSnowRunner is a challenging trucking simulator from Saber Interactive.The game looks great on PS4 Pro already. It's getting a 4K texture pack on the console soon. You can purchase SnowRunner for $50 on Amazon. SnowRunner is a challenging trucking game from Saber Interactive and Focus Home Interactive. According to the SnowRunner development team, on the Focus Forums, a 4K textures pack is planned for PlayStation 4 Pro (PS4 Pro) and Xbox One X. You can read an excerpt from the post below. Later down the line, we'll have more bug fixes for all platforms, and in a couple of weeks, our first major patch, which will add a free fourth Taymyr map, free skins for trucks, working mirrors for consoles, a 4K textures pack for PS4 Pro and Xbox One X, and more.SnowRunner already looks incredible on PS4 Pro and the 4K texture pack should make it even better. I can't wait to see what this brings to the game....

Marty Stratton offers an explanation for the sudden split between Bethesda and composer Mick Gordon.What you need to knowMick Gordon is a composer who has worked with Bethesda on games like Doom Eternal and Prey.Earlier this year, Gordon mentioned to some fans he was unlikely to work with Bethesda again.Marty Stratton, Executive Producer on Doom Eternal, has published an open letter on Reddit, providing some background for the situation. Stratton alleges that Gordon repeatedly missed deadlines and misguided fans with his online posts.Recently, the official soundtrack for Doom Eternal was released for owners of the Collector's Edition. Many listeners immediately noticed a difference between tracks that were mixed by composer Mick Gordon and those that were not. Gordon, who has worked with Bethesda on multiple previous grames, provided comments to fans, stating that he certainly wouldn't have mixed the soundtrack that way and that he was unlikely to work with Bethesda again....

Intel inside...outside?What you need to knowIntel has acquired public transit app Moovit for $900 million.The move marks a step toward the company's eventual goal of becoming a "complete mobility provider."Moovit boasts, according to Intel, 800 million customers across 3,100 cities.Autonomous driving is expected to become a multi-billion dollar industry within the next decade, and Intel just planted its flag in the space — a $900M flag, to be precise. That's the price the chipmaker is paying to acquire Israeli public transit app Moovit, which allows users to map out their travel via public transit in 3,100 cities across 102 countries. The app, according to Intel, boasts 800 million users across the globe.The chipmaker explains its splurge as follows: The addition of Moovit brings Intel's Mobileye closer to achieving its plan to become a complete mobility provider, including robotaxi services, which is forecast to be an estimated $160 billion opportunity by 2030.M...

Sonos has an announcement planned for May 6.What you need to knowThe Sonos Playbar was originally released in 2013.Aside from a visual upgrade, Dolby Atmos, and Apple AirPlay 2 are among the rumored updates as well. The Sonos Play:5 and Sub are expected to receive an update as well.Sonos is much loved by audiophiles, and the Playbar is one of the reasons for the love, but it lacks in some of the newer tech that is out there. Thankfully, it seems that the long-awaited update to the Playbar may finally be on the horizon.According to a report from Zatz Not Funny, the Sonos Playbar — originally released in 2013 — will be getting its overdue update on May 6 at the Sonos event. The revised Playbar has some welcomed additions rumored, such as Dolby Atmos as well as Apple AirPlay 2. Unfortunately, neither the report of leaked renders shows the addition of an HDMI port.The updated appearance of the Playbar will be getting two color choices, white or black, as well as str...

Forza Street launches on iOS and Android on May 5 and all players will get at least one batch of free stuff.What you need to knowForza Street is a free-to-play mobile game and the first mobile Forza experience.Long awaited mobile launch comes after an initial period on Windows 10.All players can get free cars to celebrate the launch.After a launch on Windows 10 PCs and a soft launch in places on mobile, Microsoft's Forza Street is finally about to launch on iOS and Android to all. Forza Street is Turn 10's first attempt at a dedicated mobile Forza experience with a simplified, touch-friendly play style and more casual approach to racing.Which made it a little peculiar that it actually launched on Windows 10 first. In any case, it's now where it needs to be, finally, and all players will be getting some bonus items for playing during the first 30 days from May 5.The Founders Pack which is available to all, even long time Windows 10 players, will gift the 2017 Ford GT t...

Here's what to expect from the LG G9 by a different name.With so many phones that are released during a given year, it only makes sense for some of them to slip between the cracks. Other companies gets fiercer, prices get more competitive, and those that aren't truly amazing often get left to the wayside.Unfortunately, that seems to have been the case for LG for the last few years. The company makes solid devices, but a handful of quirks or missteps keep them from achieving true greatness.2020 is here, and this time around, we're getting the LG Velvet (aka the successor to 2019's LG G8). This is the phone we were expecting to be called the LG G9, but LG wanted to do something a bit different rather than a boring year-over-year upgrade.Is the Velvet what the company needs to turn things around? Here's everything we know about the phone so far!Meet LG's "natural" designWhat happend to the LG G9 name?Let's talk specsYou can turn it into a foldableIt'll be announced on May...

Most Quest owners know you can now link your wireless headset to your PC to play PCVR games. But you may not know that linking up to your PC also lets you transfer files back and forth between your headset and computer. Doing so enables you to download films, music, pictures, game mods, and other content to your device. Below, we walk you through the process of transferring files to (and from) your Quest.Products used in this guideSimple cable solution: AmazonBasics USB Type-C ($8 at Amazon)Wireless VR: Oculus Quest ($399 at Oculus)How to connect your Quest to your PCConnect your Quest to your PC with a USB-C cable. If your PC has its own USB-C port, you can use the USB-C cable that comes with the Quest itself. You will see the Quest pop up on your explorer.Put your Quest on your head.Within the Quest, you will be prompted whether you want your PC to be able to access your Quest files. Confirm yes.On your Windows PC, you will now have access to explore your Quest as ...

May the Fourth be with you, and with Waititi as he prepares to bring us a new story from a galaxy far, far away.What you need to knowDisney and Lucasfilm are confirming that Taika Waititi, who directed an episode of The Mandalorian as well as voicing droid IG-11 in the series, will direct and co-write a new theatrical Star Wars film.Waititi previously directed Thor Ragnarok — in which he also voiced rocky comedic sidekick Korg in the film — and World War II satire JoJo Rabbit.Also confirmed by Disney, Leslye Headland is also developing a Star Wars series for Disney+, though the series does not have a title or a current timeline for release.Today's a day full of Star Wars fanfare and fan tears — that final scene with the lightsaber and the helmet, man! — and it's also a day of Star Wars news: Disney is now confirming two recent rumors about upcoming Star Wars projects, the most noteworth being that Taika Waititi will direct a Star Wars film that will be coming to the...

Bring your own device.What you need to knowThe unlocked variants of the OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro are now supported on Verizon's network.You can switch over to the carrier's network via its Bring Your Own Device program.The process was actually fast-tracked compared to OnePlus' initial estimate of June.OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro owners rejoice! Your unlocked phone can finally be connected to Verizon's network, officially and without breaking anything. The news comes via the company's George Koreonos, who took to Twitter to spread the good word:Big news for you OnePlus fans. The unlocked versions of the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro have been officially certified to work on @Verizon. pic.twitter.com/XLk7GdmwDy— George Koroneos ?? (@GLKCreative) May 4, 2020The process of switching over is also quick, painless, and easily done via the company's website. Ever the helpful guy, George even has a video to guide you through the process:Real talk. If you break or lose your phone, y...

Samsung's new Notes are here — let's talk about them.In the second half of each year, Samsung launches a new entry in its Galaxy Note series to showcase the very best it has to offer in smartphones. For 2019, Samsung used the Galaxy Note 10, Note 10+, and Note 10+ 5G to do just that.2019 was the first year Samsung's ever launched three Notes at the same time, and along with that, the company also made some controversial decisions when it comes to legacy Note features. Even so, these handsets stand out as some of the best smartphones Samsung has to offer right now (even with the Galaxy S20 now available).Eager to learn more? Keep on reading.Check out our reviewThe Note 10 has impressive specsOne UI 2.1 is available nowWe've compared it to other phonesThere are three different modelsIt's true — Samsung got rid of the headphone jackSamsung upgraded its charging speedsHere's what's new with the S PenTake a look at the Note 10's colors ?You can buy the phone right...

Apple and Google's new contact tracing APIs will let public health agencies build efficient contact tracing apps.What you need to knowApple and Google have teamed up to create a contact tracing API for their respective smartphone operating systems.The API will enable efficient and light contact tracing experiences on smartphones running iOS and Android.Both companies shared screenshots and code snippets this week to help developers get a headstart.Amid the unprecedented actions taking to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, large-scale contact tracing is one of the routes out of global lockdown. The idea is that users install apps on their cell phones which would let them know if someone they have come into extended contact with has tested positive for the coronavirus. It'll prompt people into self-isolation, and help limit the spread as a result. The approach was praised for its effectiveness in South Korea, and now governments in Europe and The Americas are onboard to create ...

Mother's Day is less than one week away, and if you're still stumped on what to buy your loved one, Roku's latest sale is here to help. With offers on streaming devices, wireless speakers, and even streaming channels, Roku gives you a number of ways to make mom's day special. Best of all, various retailers are getting in on these deals so you can shop where you like and even score free shipping on select purchases.The main deal you don't want to miss out on this week if you or mom don't own a streaming device already is on the Roku Streaming Stick+. It's down to $39.99 at retailers like Best Buy and Target saving you $10 off its full cost. Meanwhile, if you're looking for something a bit more affordable, the Roku Express is on sale for $24.99 at both retailers as well. While the Express is capable of streaming in 1080p HD, the Roku Streaming Stick+ can stream content in 4K UHD. Both of these deals are valid only through May 9.If you already have a Roku TV at home, you won't need ...

120Hz displays are in, the headphone jack is out.Every year sees a heap of various Android phones released into the market. Some are good, some are bad. Some are really exciting, whereas others are a bit boring. Among all of the handsets to come out during a given year, one release that's continually met with a lot of excitement and fanfare is Samsung's Galaxy S series.One could argue that Galaxy S phones aren't always the most interesting, but there's no denying how much more attention they get compared to much of the competition.For 2020, Samsung is launching a trio of phones with the Galaxy S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra. These are very technically impressive gadgets with high prices to match, and if you can afford what Samsung is asking for the phones, they're bound to be some of the best the Android landscape sees all year.From hands-on coverage, detailed specs, accessory recommendations, and so much more, here's absolutely everything you need to know about the Samsung Galaxy ...

Kids love gadgets as much as adults, maybe even more, so it's no surprise the idea of having their own smartwatch gets kids excited. Choosing what watch to get for your child can be daunting, with so many choices out there. Aside from wading through all the options, it's also important to consider privacy, durability, and cost when looking at the choices. One watch that does a great job of these core features is the Coolpad Dyno. There are a lot of choices out there, so let us help you find the best option for you and your child.Best Overall: Coolpad DynoWhile the brand Coolpad may not be all that familiar to you, its watch should is one that should be considered when looking for an excellent smartwatch for your child. The Dyno from Coolpad is not only a fun looking device, but it also has some great features to help keep you connected with your child and let them have some fun.The Dyno can connect via Wi-Fi but also has a SIM card so that it can fully function as a phone. Co...

Fifth time's the charm?If there's one way we could describe the Pixel 4, it would be "frustrating." Google made a lot of smart moves with the phone, notably its phenomenal cameras and ultra-fast face unlock, but inexcusably bad battery life held it back from being an easy recommendation. The larger Pixel 4 XL is undoubtedly the better of the two phones, but its battery is still just OK and raises the already high price by an extra $100.Using the Pixel 4 is a wonderful thing, but there's no getting around the compromises required to use it as a daily driver. With that in mind, it's no surprise we're anxious to see what Google does with its successor.All the Pixel 5 needs to do in order to be a great phone is to give us the same Pixel 4 experience, use a reasonably-sized battery, and add an ultra-wide camera.Is that what's happening? Read on to find out everything we know so far about the Google Pixel 5!Let's talk about the designWe'll get three rear camerasGet ready for s...

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S10e doesn't have that fancy new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, but that means that screen protectors aren't a special brand of confusing. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor on the S10e adds a different challenge — and to be sure, there are far fewer cases around for the S10e right now than the larger models — but that doesn't mean we don't have some top-notch cases to protect the S10e's hole-punch screen.Clear as crystalSpigen Liquid Crystal AirStaff pickThe Liquid Crystal line is my favorite clear case around — well, except for the sparkly Liquid Crystal Glitter variant — because it's thin, grippy, and doesn't get in the way. Perfect port cutouts and easy application make a good case great.$12 at AmazonUnique hybridRingke Fusion-XThe Ringke Fusion-X is a unique hybrid case we can't get enough of. The clear back allows your S10e to shine through, and at the same time, there's a rugged bumper that offers reliable shock absorption a...

The Samsung Galaxy S10 is a truly gorgeous phone thanks to its nearly bezel-less display and stunning glass back, but as with all of Samsung's latest handsets, you'll want to outfit it with a case to ensure its good looks for years to come. If you're planning on picking up the S10, here are the cases we recommend getting.Redesigned favoriteSpigen Neo HybridStaff pickSpigen's Neo Hybrid has long been one of our favorite phone cases. It has an iconic design, offers excellent protection, and is easy on the wallet.From $14 at Amazon$14 at eBayThinnest you can getTotallee Thin CaseOne of the best thin cases on the market comes from Totallee. Not only is this case astonishingly thin, but it also offers ample coverage against wear and tear.From $30 at Amazon$35 at TotalleeMore than a caseSamsung LED Back CoverThe Samsung LED Back Cover is quite unique. The case offers good drop protection, but its real highlight is the customizable LEDs on the back.$29 at A...

With that fun new Soli sensor, a 90Hz screen, and the latest and greatest goodies from Google, the Pixel 4 XL is a tall drink of awesome. It's also made entirely of glass and metal and needs to be protected at all costs. We've spent hours scouring the internet for the best cases to get for your new Pixel 4 XL, and these are the best onesClassic heavy dutyTudia Merge SeriesStaff pickTudia's hybrid case grips your Pixel 4 XL snugly with a TPU sleeve and adds sturdiness with a colorful polycarbonate shell. There are four colors here, but the best of them are the bright blue and warm Rose Gold.$10 at AmazonFeels so goodGoogle Fabric CaseGoogle's done fabric cases for three years now, and they always feel and look amazing. This year, Google's widened the weave and the colors are absolutely on point. Just look at that Blue-ish! Look at it!!$34 at AmazonProtect and showcaseRingke Fusion-XI love the Fusion-X because it showcases the phone's natural beauty while ...

A repeated pattern of racist remarks means nothing, apparently.What you need to knowFelix Kjellberg, known by his YouTube handle PewDiePie, has signed an exclusive streaming deal with YouTube.This comes three years after the platform cancelled his YouTube Red series over anti-Semitic remarks.What are consequences? YouTube doesn't know her.Felix "PewDiePie" Kjellberg, one of YouTube's most popular creators, has signed an exclusive streaming deal with the company. Remember when just a few years ago YouTube cancelled one of his original series over anti-Semitic remarks? YouTube sure doesn't, I guess."YouTube has been my home for over a decade now and live streaming on the platform feels like a natural fit as I continue to look for new ways to create content and interact with fans worldwide," PewDiePie said in statement. "Live streaming is something I'm focusing a lot on in 2020 and beyond, so to be able to partner with YouTube and be at the forefront of new product features ...

Samsung has supersized the Galaxy experience with the Galaxy S20 Ultra, and with that big beautiful 6.9-inch screen comes a larger and heavier phone than even last year's Galaxy Note 10+. While I can understand not wanting to bulk up your S20 Ultra, a case is not optional on a phone this big; you need a protective case to add grip to that big glass back and add some cushions or shock-absorbing bumpers to the corners. From clear and thin to big and functional, these are the best cases to buy your new flagship.Clear but sturdyRingke Fusion XStaff pick$8 at Amazon$13 at WalmartWant to show off your S20 Ultra's glass-backed beauty while still protecting it from scratches, slips, and the oh-so-dreaded shatter? This case gives you robust bumper and corner protection and a crystal clear back.Plant-based protectionTech21 Studio Colour$30 at Tech21$30 at AmazonThis ultra-thin case sports both 8-foot drop protection and anti-microbial properties while being made wit...

The Galaxy S20 is one of the most beautiful phones ever made, but it's also made of slippery metal and scratchable glass. If you're worried about scratching up that new expensive phone, there's no time like the present to grab yourself a great case to protect your shiny new flagship when your order shows up.Mesmerizing colorsCaseology ParallaxStaff pick$14 at Amazon$25 at CaseologyThis hybrid honey of a case has a lot in common with the Spigen Neo Hybrid, but it's got better color combos for that great protection, including a new new teal "Aqua Green" that is even more alluring in person than the renders do justice.Get a gripSpigen Liquid Air$12 at Amazon$20 at SpigenKeep your carbon fiber classics and give me the Liquid Air any day of the week. The diamond pattern covering the back is just deep enough to add real grip while still feeling slim and sleek in the hand.Durable and diamond clearRingke Fusion X$8 at Amazon $10 at eBay The Fusion X i...

Star Wars Day is better than ever this year, as you no longer have to scour the galaxy to find where the movies are streaming. The event is well-known for all the discounts it brings on Star Wars merch, but now, Sling TV is offering one of the best Star Wars Day deals and it's absolutely free. Nearly the entire Star Wars saga is streaming for free at Sling and all you need is a free account to start watching.Better yet, with every on-demand or live viewing of the Star Wars films, you'll be entered to win an autographed Mace Windu lightsaber in Sling's 'May the 4th Be With You Sweepstakes'. There's no credit card required to sign up, and no reason to not take advantage of Sling's offer this week. The films will be available to stream for free through May 10, so don't let this opportunity go to waste.With your free Sling TV account, you can watch the Star Wars films on a myriad of devices with the Sling app, from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs and more. Solo: A Star Wars Stor...

With nearly the entire country being forced to stay indoors for the foreseeable future, it's understandable that people are running out of entertainment options. Whether you're stuck inside by yourself or find yourself surrounded by family, staying entertained and subsequently sane during these uncertain times can be a bit tricky.So instead of gathering around a humble laptop screen and binge-watching another series of your favorite show, why not turn your living room into a full-fledged movie theater with this Prima 1080p HD Pocket Projector, which can cast a screen of up to 200 inches on nearly any surface? And right now it's available for over 60% off its usual price at just $279.99.This iPhone-sized gadget delivers the ultimate multimedia experience in any environment—allowing you to screen everything you'd usually watch on your tiny laptop in an entirely new and exciting way.Featuring 200 lumens of brightness and a wide range of adjustable contrast ratios, this powerful pro...

Get your phones ready — it's update time.What you need to knowAs of May 4, Google is now rolling out the May 2020 security patch.It's available for the Pixel 2, Pixel 3, Pixel 3a, and Pixel 4 family of devices.Factory images and OTA files are available now.It's May 4, which along with being Monday, also means it's Star Wars Day. While you're watching all of the movies, Google has another treat for you — the May 2020 security patch!Factory images and OTA files are available now if you want to manually load it onto your device, or you can just wait for the over-the-air update to hit your phone. Similar to the past couple of updates, this one is rolling out to the Pixel 2, Pixel 3, Pixel 3a, and Pixel 4 lineup of devices.Looking through this month's bulletin, nothing particularly exciting jumps out. You'll find the usual bug and vulnerability fixes, but that's about it.New and noteworthy features are now divvied out via Pixel Feature Drops, with these monthly securit...

There are different ways to watch the battle of Jedi and Sith, of Empire and Rebels, but they are all available to try on Disney Plus.For the last 40 years, we have been consuming Star Wars movies in any way we could. With the release of the latest trilogy and the advent of digital streaming through Disney+, we now have a whole new generation ready and willing to watch the entire saga in the best way possible.There are several different ways that Star Wars fans can watch the entire saga. You may want to watch the main Skywalker Saga, or add the anthology movies — Solo and Rogue One — for a more completed viewing experience. There is no wrong way to consume your Star Wars, but we have some ideas on how to make the experience better.Machete Order (recommended)This is likely my favorite way of introducing people to Star Wars. It's the way I did it for my children, and they seemed to enjoy it. If you think of the first six episodes as the story of Anakin Skywalker, then the...

Samsung is largely considered to be a leader in the smartphone industry, but it's not just for its flagship options. Samsung's budget phones, such as the Galaxy A31, are still extremely serviceable, and sometimes even great for what you get. These are the best Samsung phones you can get for under $250 in 2020.Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy A31If you want a flagship-level experience without paying flagship prices, then the Galaxy A30s is perfect. This handset has up to 4GB of RAM, a beautiful sAMOLED display, and four cameras capable of handling many different shots.Perhaps even more exciting than the triple-camera setup is the 5,000mAh battery. This huge battery combined with the mid-range MediaTek Helio P65 chipset provides you with up to 20 hours of battery life.Unfortunately, you'll be forced to use traditional charging, as there's no wireless charging available with the A31. Samsung also opted not to include an official IP-rating for water or dust resistance, so you won't...

A solid choice for allGarmin Venu$297 at AmazonProsAMOLED display20+ preloaded sports appsMusic storage for 500 songsPulse Ox sensorSleep trackingConsDoesn't offer LTE connectivitySmaller storage capacityLimited app selectionOnly one size optionThe Garmin Venu comes with 20+ preloaded sports apps, built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, on-screen workouts, sleep tracking, and much more. Anyone can enjoy all the perks this smartwatch has to offer.Ideal for Apple usersApple Watch Series 5$414 at Best BuyProsNow has always-on displayTwo size options32GB storage capacityElectrocardiogram sensorOptional LTEConsExpensiveShort battery lifeLacks native sleep trackingNot a major upgrade from predecessorIf you own an iPhone, you simply can't go wrong with the Apple Watch Series 5. You'll enjoy great app support, 32 GB of storage, Apply Pay, and optional LTE connectivity. You can also choose your case size and material.When lookin...

This is not the year for a big, elaborate gift. This is the year for practicality.Mother's Day is almost upon us! It's okay if you forgot, there's been a lot going on. While most of us cannot visit our mommas this year, this is absolutely still a time to show her that you appreciate and are thinking about her. The traditional Mother's Day gifts are flowers and chocolates, but this isn't a traditional year by any means, and you shouldn't buy a traditional gift because of that.Everyone's life has changed in the last few months, and your Mother's Day gift should be something to help them through it. Whether they're attempting to work from home, are still getting the hang of video-chatting with the friends they'd usually meet for brunch, or they're just trying to not drown in the chaos of dealing with all of your siblings' distance learning and keeping a household together, here are some practical gifts for mom that could show your appreciation for months to come.Caring and calming...

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...