Latest from Android Central

Having a chat with the AC forums.We live in a world where our smartphones are more powerful and feature-rich than ever before. They can take outstanding photographs, play graphically intense games, stream 4K video, and plenty more.Phones today really are tiny computers that we can fit in our pocket, but no matter how technically impressive they get, they all come with a small roadblock — figuring out how to hold them.Thanks to large display sizes and heavy, premium materials like metal and glass, finding a comfortable way to hold your phone can honestly be kind of tricky. Some of our AC forum members recently started talking about how they hold their phone, saying: customshopkv1 04-12-2020 08:34 PM “ Use my pinky to support the phone from the bottom. Been doing it forever but really notice it with the heavier phones. Reply mustang7757...

The GoPro Hero8 Black action camera has dropped to $299 at B&H. This is a manufacturer's discount, so while the action camera is still going for its regular $399 price at some places like Best Buy, you can find it on sale from retailers like Adorama. Costco has a slightly less expensive deal that includes some bundled accessories, but you also need to be a Costco member to get it.The Hero8 just released last fall and it offers some good improvements over the previous generations. More so than ever, the GoPro is designed to travel with you. It's a more pocketable design and has folding fingers at the base so you can easily swap mounts. The side door makes changing out the rechargeable battery that much faster, and the lens is twice as impact resistant. It can record videos in a max resolution of 4K with 60 fps and take 12MP still photos.If you're using the GoPro the way it was meant to be used, you're probably running around or biking or doing something very active. That means...

Best Buy is running a promotion on Facebook Portal devices right now that is taking $50 off the device of you choice. With more people taking part in video calls thanks to social distancing, now is the perfect time to get your family set up with Portal devices and the savings make it even more affordable.The most affordable option in the sale is the Portal Mini at $79.99, a price that is also being matched at Amazon. The 8-inch device lets you easily video call other Portal users, or even just Messenger or WhatsApp users, with built-in apps. The Smart Camera tracks you and adjusts to follow you around, meaning you could, for instance, chat with your sister while cooking dinner, or hang out with long-distance relatives while they open up their birthday presents. It's got Alexa Built-in so you can control your smart home, check who's at the front door, listen to your favorite music, and more hands-free. When not in use, it can also be used as a digital photo frame showing you your be...

You're probably spending way more time at home these days, so it might be the right time to upgrade that old TV you've been hanging on to. This one-day sale on the Westinghouse 58-inch 4K UHD Roku TV at Best Buy is not one to be missed if that sounds like you. The 58-inch smart TV is down to just $279.99 today only, saving you $70 off its full cost of $350. We have seen this TV sell for as much as $500 in recent months. This deal also matches the best price we've ever seen it reach, and that offer only lasted one day as well. There's always the chance of this TV selling out before the sale ends too, so you shouldn't delay if you're interested.Cutting the cord becomes so much easier with a TV like this 58-inch 4K HDR Roku TV from Westinghouse. Its integrated smart features let you access all your favorite streaming services without needing a separate streaming device plugged in. Just connect it to your home's Wi-Fi network and you'll be able to download and watch Netflix, Disney+, A...

All 31 seasons of The Simpsons will be available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar from later this week.What you need to knowDisney has confirmed that The Simpsons will be debuting on its platform on April 15.All 31 seasons of the show will be available to stream from later this week. The series is limited to Disney+ Hotstar Premium subscribers. When Disney+ Hotstar launched in India earlier this month, there was a glaring omission: The Simpsons wasn't available to stream on the platform. Disney made most of its back catalog of TV shows and movies available to stream on the platform, and rolled out originals like The Mandalorian, but The Simpsons was missing from the catalog.Disney has confirmed that The Simpsons will be available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar by the end of the month, and in a new tweet the service has indicated that all 31 seasons of the hit TV series will be going live on April 15, two weeks earlier than scheduled:Take a break from your family for the world...

The phone is rumored to be announced in late August or early September.What you need to knowA new rumor claims that the upcoming Nokia flagship phone will have a penta-lens camera system with a 108MP wide-angle camera and a 64MP main camera.Unlike the Nokia 9 PureView, however, the rumored 9.3 PureView will not utilize Light camera technology. The phone is expected to be announced sometime in the third quarter of the year. Finnish Firm HMD Global launched the world's first smartphone with a penta-lens camera system at the Mobile World Congress last year, the Nokia 9 PureView. While it promised to deliver an outstanding camera experience to users, the phone's camera performance failed to live up to the company's claims.According to a new report from the folks over at NokiaPowerUser, HMD Global's next flagship phone, expected to be called the Nokia 9.3 PureView, will have a penta-lens camera system featuring a 64MP main sensor and a 108MP ultra-wide-angle shooter. Both the ...

This is, seemingly, the first in a "new product roadmap."What you need to knowLG has revealed the name of its upcoming flagship.The phone will be called 'Velvet,' as the company ditches its numbered naming scheme.It'll also feature a unique, 'raindrop' camera design.After years of mostly being content with spitting out one midrange phone after another — even if they are consistently ranked as the best of the bunch — LG is finally turning its eyes back to the flagship segment. And it hopes to do so with a bang, a new design language and revamped specs included.Having already shown some of the design of the phone, the company this week revealed the name of the phone it's pinning its hopes on: Velvet. The name, it says, "is intended to evoke images of lustrous smoothness and premium softness, two key characteristics of the new phone."This will also mark a departure for the company's overall naming scheme for its phones, "moving away from alphanumerical designations in ...

No matter your taste, your phone needs a case. This is a bit of a motto for me, but for glass-backed phones like the Galaxy S20+, you really do need at least a thin case to add some grip and give that glass back a minimum of scratch protection. Whether you like your thin case hard or soft, clear, or colorful, there's an option for everyone.Almost invisibleTotallee Thin CaseStaff pick$35 at Totallee$35 at AmazonIf you hate cases because they're bulky, Totallee has built its entire brand around people like you. These are the thinnest cases you can get; they are entirely free of branding or emblems and come in clear or black.Clearly thinRingke Air$8 at Amazon$8 at WalmartThis clear case is thin as can be and grippy as all get-out. Ringke may have built most of its reputation on more robust cases like the Fusion X, but it can do thin just as well as the hotshots when it applies itself.Best for gripSpigen Liquid Air$11 at Amazon $20 at Amazon While...

Most true wireless earbuds share the same subset of features with a few extra feature here and there. This is the case with the Galaxy Buds+ and the Elite 75t.Let's runJabra Elite 75t$180 at AmazonProsGreat, customizable soundLong battery lifeExcellent comfortIP55 dust and water resistanceGreat mic quality for phone callsConsLacks wireless charging caseOnly right earbud can be used independentlyThe Elite 75t overall nets you better battery life (when combining the buds and case) and much better dust and water resistance. You lose wireless charging but that's not a big deal for most people.Battery champSamsung Galaxy Buds+$139 at AmazonProsUSB-C and wireless charging caseLong battery lifeGreat, customizable soundGood comfort Spotify integrationConsCall quality still isn't greatOnly IPX2 water resistantThe Galaxy Buds+ are a solid set of everyday earbuds with great convenience features such as integration with Spotify, a wireless ch...

Whether you're working from home, want to get in a gaming session from your bed or some movies while stuck at home, a good lap desk is invaluable. There are so many choices out there — from adjustable options to those with lights or fans. We've rounded up the best for you to get for whatever you want to do from wherever you want to do it.Space for activitesKavalan Lap DeskStaff FavoriteThis lap desk from Kavalan not only looks great but has great functionality that makes terrific use of its size. The desk has mouse pads on both sides for right or left-handed use, or as a spot for your phone to hang out. There is also a slot at the top of the desk should you want to use a tablet and prop it up. Dual pads on the bottom and a wrist rest make sure you stay comfy while you work or play.$43 at AmazonA solid choiceMind Reader Bamboo Lap DeskThis lap desk from Mind Reader is crafted from bamboo with quality hardware to ensure it'll last you a long time. The top is...

Wind, fade to silence and light, give us power! Shiva!One of the most iconic elements of the Final Fantasy series has to be the summons, and Final Fantasy 7 Remake is no exception. While many were concerned, based on the original game and the way Remake is being split up, that there wouldn't be much summoning to be done, worry not! There are several Summons you can obtain in this game, and I've got all the details on where to get them and what special abilities they bring into battle!What are Summons anyway?Summoning is a core mechanic to any Final Fantasy game. In Final Fantasy 7 Remake, your Summons are tied to Red Summon Materia. These Materia give you the ability to bring a powerful spirit to fight alongside you. These spirits are so powerful that some can only be brought into the most challenging of boss battles, but once summoned, they can turn the tide in your favor. There are nine Summons in total, but not all of them are available to every player.How do I use Summo...

It's going to be a long road back to normal, but it starts with the acceptance that normal isn't going to be possible for a while.Last April, I capped off my birthday at the Magic Kingdom. I brought one of the oldest Whirley mugs in my collection back to Gaston's and drank the last HEB Pure Cane Sugar cola I brought with me from Texas out of it. I sang along with the fireworks and rode my favorite rides. This year, I sat alone in my apartment, watching Hawaii Five-0 and eating leftover pizza, trying to be thankful I'm healthy, employed, and alive."Trying to find the new normal" has been a big phrase the last month. People trying to figure out how to work from home, how to keep their kids learning from home, how to get essential supplies while minimizing the risk of infection, how to try and stay healthy and active and sane while we hear the death toll rising every day.There are so many things we can do to try and help stop the spread, to help frontline workers that are riskin...

The Galaxy S20+ is quite an impressive phone with an impressively large 6.7-inch 120Hz display that you're going to want to protect from the cruel, concrete world outside your door. To help you defend your S20+ from shattering drops and scratched glass, we've rounded up the best heavy-duty options for protecting the Galaxy S20+ in style.Sleek and stylish protectorSupcase Unicorn Beetle Style SeriesStaff Pick$13 at Amazon$13 at eBayThis stylish case combines a rugged bumper with a rigid and clear backplate that accents the phone without adding unnecessary bulk. It's thin and lightweight on your phone and just as easy on your wallet.For rugged outdoorsmenUAG Pathfinder Series$35 at Amazon$40 at Urban Armor GearThe UAG Pathfinder offers ideal protection for anyone who spends time exploring the outdoors. The slim design offers reinforced corners for added drop protection, and it's available in black, olive green, and camo styles.Kick back and relax...

The remake train is reportedly continuing on.What you need to knowCapcom has been finding critical and commercial success remaking older Resident Evil titles.According to an exclusive report from VGC, Resident Evil 4 remake is up next.This project reportedly is being developed by M-Two, led by former head of PlatinumGames Tatsuya Minami.Capcom will also lend support to the project.With Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3 both receiving remakes in 2019 and 2020 respectively, it appears that Capcom's next remake is of a title many consider legendary. According to new report from VGC, Resident Evil 4 remake is in development at M-Two, being led by former PlatinumGames head Tastusya Minami.M-Two was a support studio for the development of Resident Evil 3's recent remake and the team reportedly has the blessing of original Resident Evil 4 director, Shinji Mikami. The project has also reportedly been in planning since 2018 and is aiming to release the Resident Evil 4 remake in...

No one will be able to attend Andrea Bocelli's Easter performance, but that doesn't mean you won't be able to stream it from the safety of your own home. This year, due to stay at home orders and social distancing, Andrea Bocelli will be performing a solo concert on Easter Sunday live from Milan's historic cathedral Duomo di Milano.The concert, which is titled Andrea Bocelli: Music for Hope will broadcast for free on his YouTube channel, so you'll be able to tune in from the device of your choice with ease.Andrea Bocelli: Music for Hope when and whereThe Italian singer will perform at Milan's own Duomo di Milano on Sunday, April 12. The concert kicks off at 6 p.m. BST, which is 1 p.m. EST or 10 a.m. PST.He will be joined by the cathedral's organist Emanuele Vianelli, and some of the music that's to be performed includes Ave Maria and Mascagni's Sancta Maria.How to watch Andrea Bocelli: Music for Hope concert live streamThis one is easy. Andrea Bocelli's concert will be br...

If you're one of the many who's wondering why you're still paying for cable while live sports are cancelled for the forseeable future, it's time to think about giving Sling TV's live streaming service a try. Sling doesn't usually offer a free trial that lets you see what it's all about without paying, but for a limited time, you can start a free 7-day trial and check out the service for yourself.Sling is much more affordable than traditional cable packages, and today's trial doesn't even require you to enter your credit card details or billing information. You'll be prompted to enter that info once the 7-day trial ends if you decide to keep your membership active.Having a Sling membership is nearly essential in the age of cordcutting. It's much more affordable than a traditional cable package while still letting you watch your favorite channels. However, now you'll be able to watch them on more than just your living room TV. Sling has an app that can be downloaded to various devi...

Looking for some big ways to save on tech right now? Whether it's something you need for working from home and you don't want to go broke getting it, or something you want and you're looking for a bargain, Best Buy has the only weekend sale you should be paying attention to. For just one-day you can save hundreds at Best Buy on tech and electronics that include everything from the MacBook Pro to 4K TVs to a Philips Hue starter kit. That means the deals expire tonight at midnight, and if you order something they'll have it ready for you for curbside pickup tomorrow. Or you can get delivery if you prefer that.One part of the sale includes up to $1,500 off various models of the Apple MacBook Pro. This is your chance to get these computers for less than what Apple charges, and you can pick your favorite variation. Go for the least expensive option, which is down to $2,299.99 from a street price of $2,800. It includes an Intel Core i9 processor, 16GB RAM, a 512GB SSD, and an AMD Radeon ...

Now that everyone is stuck indoors and working from home, it's important to make sure your home has appropriate Wi-Fi speeds and security to protect your private information — especially if you're dealing with any sensitive work material. The eero mesh networking system is one of our favorites in part due to how easy it is to setup and how well it works. Its robust app makes it simple to adjust settings and set parental controls, though to get the most out of what an eero mesh networking system can do for your home, you'll also want to sign up for an eero Secure subscription.eero Secure brings advanced security features to the eero mesh networking system for a low monthly fee of just $2.99. Today however, eero is taking 50% off the subscription price when you enter promo code Secure50 during checkout. That brings it monthly cost down to just $1.49.The eero mesh networking system is on sale today as well. Pick up the 3-pack on sale for $199 via Best Buy at a $50 discount, or you...

It's time to give your phone a tune-up.You bought a shiny new phone, and a few months later realize it isn't quite as fast as it used to be. We've all been there, and the issue isn't limited to budget devices — a few high-end phones are also prone to the occasional slowdown after several months of usage.Thankfully, there are a few things you can try to get your phone running back at full speed. We've also listed a few things you can do to get the most out of your phone's battery.Use Files by Google to clear cached data and clean storageGoogle's file management app is awesome. It not only analyzes your phone for unused files and apps, but also lets you easily transfer files. The app has a minimalist design with two tabs: Storage and Files. From the Storage tab, you get an overview of the amount of storage you have left on your phone, as well as tips on how to free up space. You'll also be able to easily clear apps' cached data from within Files.Files by Google: Everythin...

The Definitive Technology Studio Slim 3.1-channel sound bar system is down to $599.98 at Best Buy. This sound bar normally sells for around $800, and it's going for as much as $1,000 at some retailers like Crutchfield. The drop to $600 is the lowest we have ever seen. Even when it has gone on sale in the past, it has only dropped as low as $650.Not only is this a fantastic sounding piece of audio equipment, it's also insanely easy to use. Once you get it installed where you want, you just connect it to your Wi-Fi network and use the Google Home app to finish the setup. It's a 75-inch sound bar loaded with sound, but it's also only 1.75 inches thick so it looks fantastic and blends in with your 4K TV and other home theater equipment. It has a brushed aluminum exterior, too.The 3.1-channel sound bar has seven drivers with aluminum dome tweeters. It uses powerful DSP-enhanced sound decoding with left, right, and center channels. You'll also get an 8-inch wireless subwoofer for extra...

Bigger phones like the Samsung Galaxy S20+ are perfect candidates for wallet cases. The bigger the phone, the more space it takes up in your pocket or bag. Wallet cases let you condense all your essential IDs and payment methods in one place. The best-designed wallet cases make life more comfortable at the expense of a little added bulk. Check out the stylish options available so far.Jack of all tradesOlixar X-Ranger$20 at Olixar$20 at AmazonIf a thick folio wallet isn't your style, go slimmer and become a super-spy with the X-Ranger. When the bottom kickstand isn't deployed, it just looks like a heavy-duty case, but it also has space for a couple of cards inside.Carry it allCaseMe Magnetic Leather Wallet$13 at AmazonThis wallet folio comes in five colors, including a subdued Wine Red and teal-ish Blue. There are two dedicated card slots and then a bigger slot for spare cash and receipts. It's our top pick for its affordability and choice of colors....

The Google search button has also gone away.What you need to knowThe spacebar in Gboard for Android now has 'Google' branding on it.Users on reddit as well as Google's Android Help forum are criticizing the search giant for the move. In addition to the 'Google' branding to the spacebar, the latest Gboard update also removes the Google Search button.Update: It looks like the backlash to the change was severe enough that Google's re-thought the whole thing. Members of the Android Central team, as well as folks on the Android subreddit, have noticed that the Google logo has now been removed from the spacebar.Google's Gboard is one of the most popular keyboard apps for Android, thanks to its smart features and an intuitive design. Google is now rolling out two major changes to Gboard, both of which seem to have annoyed a large number of users. Many users have taken to reddit and Google's Android Help forum to voice their displeasure over these changes.Gboard for Android...

Movie theaters may be closed, but that's no excuse to forego movie night. Kids have been waiting ever-so patiently (or not so patiently) for the sequel to the 2016 hit animated film Trolls, and today, Trolls World Tour is premiering exclusively on digital retailers like Vudu, iTunes, and Amazon Prime so they can watch the film from the safe, cozy living room couch.Where to watch Trolls World TourApple iTunesAmazon Prime VideoVuduGoogle PlayFandango NowXfinityTrolls World Tour is not available to own at this time. All digital retailers are offering a 48-hour rental of the film priced at $19.99, and that's an important distinction you'll want to take note of before spending your money. You might balk at the thought of spending so much on a rental when most sell anywhere between $1 and $6, though it'd be wise to take how much you're saving into account as well.Imagine taking your children to see Trolls World Tour at the theater this weekend. Would it cost $20? Maybe $...

Looking for ways to stay entertained while stuck indoors over the next few weeks? For a limited time, Sirius has its SiriusXM Select streaming service on sale giving you the chance to score a year-long membership for just $60! This deal gets even better though, as Sirius is also throwing in an Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker free-of-charge so you can listen to the service anywhere in your home.A year of access to SiriusXM would normally cost a little over $200, but today's deal saves you more than $140 off that cost and throws in the Echo Dot for free — normally valued at $50 itself. Even if you're unsure of whether you like SiriusXM yet, this deal is worth grabbing considering it's like paying only $10 for the service on top of the Echo Dot's price.You'll just want to remember to end your subscription once six months has passed if you decide the service isn't for you. Otherwise, you'll remain a member and be charged its regular $16.99 subscription fee per month. Canceling before...

Samsung made yet another beauty with the Galaxy S20+, so I understand not wanting to hide its splendor inside a bulky, blocky tank of a case. That said, this is also a costly phone that's completely wrapped in glass, so please, please, please protect your gem of a phone with a clear case. There's no reason not to when they look this good!Grippy clear caseCaseology Solid Flex CrystalStaff pick$11 at Amazon$15 at CaseologyCaseology's take on the classic clear TPU case adds some subtle sculpting for air cushions around the corners and is remarkably grippy even without texturing. Microdots inside also help prevent splotching.Plant-based protectionTech21 Pure Clear$32 at Tech21 $40 at Amazon Tech21 makes the PureClear case with sustainable, plant-based materials, while also making it durable and drop-resistant. It also has a BioShield that's supposed to keep your phone clean and germ-free.Ruggedly handsomeESR Air Armor$11 at Amazon$16 at ESRESR pac...

If you're one of the many who's wondering why you're still paying for cable while live sports are cancelled for the forseeable future, it's time to think about giving Sling TV's live streaming service a try. Sling doesn't usually offer a free trial that lets you see what it's all about without paying, but for a limited time, you can start a free 7-day trial and check out the service for yourself.Sling is much more affordable than traditional cable packages, and today's trial doesn't even require you to enter your credit card details or billing information. You'll be prompted to enter that info once the 7-day trial ends if you decide to keep your membership active.Having a Sling membership is nearly essential in the age of cordcutting. It's much more affordable than a traditional cable package while still letting you watch your favorite channels. However, now you'll be able to watch them on more than just your living room TV. Sling has an app that can be downloaded to various devi...

Best answer: UFS 3.0 is the latest iteration of Universal Flash Storage, a storage standard designed for smartphones and digital cameras. UFS offers read and write speeds that are significantly faster than eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) while retaining the same power consumption figures. Think it of as a mobile SSD for your phone.Speed demon: OnePlus 7T ($499 at OnePlus)UFS delivers SSD-like speeds on smartphonesUFS (Universal Flash Storage) has emerged as the preferred flash memory standard for high-end phones in recent years. eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) is still the most prominent memory standard around — with the Pixel 3a series using an eMMC 5.1 storage module — but UFS offers significantly higher bandwidth while consuming the same amount of power.UFS was primarily designed to deliver SSD-like speeds on mobile devices. The first-gen UFS modules offered three times faster file copying times, as well as vast improvements in multitasking over eMMC modules. UFS can d...

Love and music are two of the most emotionally powerful forces in the world which is why The Bachelor's creator Mike Fleiss has decided to combine the two for the series' latest spin-off, The Bachelor Presents: Listen to Your Heart.The new dating reality TV series, hosted by Chris Harrison, will follow 12 single men and 11 single women over the course of six episodes as they try to make connections with one another through music. That's right, all of the contestants in Listen to Your Heart are musicians and the dates they go on will focus on music.Once the show's contestants find that special someone and decide to become a couple, their harmony will be tested through a series of musical challenges as well as live performances which will be judged by some of the biggest names in the music business including Toni Braxton, Kesha, Jewel, Shaggy, the Plain White T's and more. The couples whose musical performances show the most love and devotion to one another will advance while those...

As a traveling videographer (well, just a videographer at the moment), I've always had an obsession with two categories of gear that make my life a lot easier: backpacks and tripods.After years of trying bag after bag, Peak Design more or less ended my search for the former with its Everyday Backpack line, which I've been a huge fan of since the original 20L model. Now, the San Francisco-based company aims to similarly shake up the tripod market with its Travel Tripod — a sleek, compact tripod with the clever design traits that Peak Design is known for.The Travel Tripod is available in two material configurations — aluminum and carbon fiber — and two different price points. I've been testing the latter version since January, and it's since become a mainstay in both my traveling and home filming rigs.My new go-to tripodPeak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod ...

Facebook brings one of its best messaging services multi-platform.What you need to knowInstagram finally is rolling out web DMs to all users.The company announced a testing period in January for a select group of users.Facebook still plans on bridging all its messaging services eventually.Instagram is finally rolling out desktop DMs after testing the feature for a few months. You'll now be able to read, send, and respond to DMs from your browser much like you can from the mobile app. Features like emoji and gif support come along for the ride, and you'll be able to share images and videos directly from the feed to your friends' inboxes.*Sliding into your DMs*Now you can get and send Instagram Direct messages on desktop, no matter where you are in the world 👍 pic.twitter.com/CT2SwuxHTv— Instagram (@instagram) April 10, 2020While users have always been able to DM through mobile apps, the feature was one that was conspicuously absent on the otherwise decent desktop ...

One of the best ways to start off or expand a smart home is through smart lights. Lighting can really set the mood in a home, creating a warm, inviting ton when you want to relax or brightening things up when you're ready to party. When it comes to smart lighting, Philips Hue is one of the most recognizable and popular brands thanks to the wide range of products in the line, all of which can easily be controlled through one Hue Bridge and your mobile device or even voice. A great option that will fit the bill no matter where you want to place the light is the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 Bluetooth Smart LED Bulb because it can connect to a Bridge for remote control and be added to a larger system, or just use Bluetooth for control from the app while you're in the room. But what other types of Hue bulbs would be great for different rooms of the home and different use cases?Best Overall: Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance A19 Bluetooth Smart LED BulbThis bulb, ava...

Zoom isn't the monster much of the media has made it out to be. Just be careful what you use it for.If you're stuck at home and spend time reading about technology, you probably heard how Zoom is some evil entity intent on stealing away your life and doing something equally evil to you if you use it. Labels like malware get thrown around and we hear about every single mistake the company has made. And there are a lot of them to be sure.The thing is, Zoom is also really easy to use. Usually, the easier a thing is to use, the less secure it will be and Zoom is the poster child for that slogan. But right now, the world needs easy to use just as much as it needs secure and that's why there is space for software like Zoom in the lives of plenty of people.Zoom - has bugs like all other software.Zoom - fixing bugs and being responsible.Zoom - software I easily taught my dad to use for remote classes over email and WhatsApp.Zoom - not rated for sensitive data: natsec, confidential sour...

Get ready for a new batch of showbiz hopefuls and some heart-warming family entertainment - Britain's Got Talent is back for its 14th season. Geordie duo Ant and Dec return to host the TV talent show's auditions, while Simon Cowell, David Walliams, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden are all back behind the judges' desk.This year's competition looks set to be one with a difference - the early audition stages were all filmed before Coronavirus restrictions came into force in the UK and are set to air as planned, however ITV have been forced to postpone this year's live shows, which means the conclusion for this year's show could be pegged back until the winter.Early previews have teased a Royal Marine who has an explosive special skill, an incredible stunt unicyclist and a Donald Trump lookalike in pink tights among the contestants hoping to get their big break on the show.This year's hopefuls will be hoping to emulate last year's winner - 90-year-old singer Colin Thackery who has go...

Smartphones are slowly but surely getting rid of the 3.5mm audio jack from smartphones and tablets, so users are turning to wireless as the next viable option. The Jabra Elite 75t are currently the best overall true wireless earbuds you can buy. They feature solid sound, long battery life, and they're incredibly comfortable and portable.Best Overall: Jabra Elite 75tThe Jabra Elite 75t features a very bass-heavy sound out of the box, which is surprising. The bass is boosted quite a bit to the point where some may dislike the bass overall. For bass heads, this will be the earbud for you. Fortunately, you can adjust the Elite 75t's sound signature with its smartphone companion app.Battery life is excellent here as well with up to 7.5 hours of listening on a single charge. The included charging case gets you roughly 20 additional hours of listening, totaling around 28 hours of listening time with the charging case. Unfortunately, they still don't feature wireless charging for...

Chadley Chadignton Chadster the Seventh...Okay, but seriously, Chadley is a stupid name. If you started up Final Fantasy 7 Remake, you probably have some questions about this Chadley character, his Intel Reports, and why you should bother with what are essentially pretty dull side quests. Or maybe you don't, and you blew off this kid and his achievement list. Why do you want to help this weird robot Shinra clone kid? Oh, right, Materia.Who is Chadley? I don't remember him.Chadley is a brand new character introduced in Final Fantasy 7 Remake, whose purpose seems to be to introduce certain Materia earlier in the game. Chadley begins his odd, mechanical introduction explaining that he works as an intern for Shinra Research and Development. This, of course, is a huge red flag for Cloud, the ex-SOLDIER who really would rather Shinra just stopped existing.However, with a quick promise that he plans on undermining Shinra from the inside, some oddly specific comments about how Clou...

The largest phone in the S20 lineup absolutely deserves the rugged protection of a heavy duty case — but that doesn't mean you need to add an inch of opaque plastic to make it even more unwieldy. These days, you can find rugged clear cases and other sleek designs that add extra functionality to your phone. Here are our picks for the best heavy duty cases for the S20 Ultra.Clearly ruggedRingke Fusion XStaff pick$8 at Amazon$13 at WalmartThe Ringke Fusion X is the perfect blend of function and style. The rugged TPU bumper protects along with the rigid backplate, which is crystal clear to let the S20 Ultra's design shine through.Heavy-duty hybridSpigen Tough Armor$15 at Amazon $45 at Spigen Spigen makes some outstanding cases that are sleek and rugged. The Tough Armor style is the best of the bunch with dual-layer protection and a built-in kickstand around the back.Texas-proud protectionArmadilloTek Vanguard Series$19 at Amazon$30 at Arm...

Android Central's top-ranking Chromebook reviews rankedThe best Chromebooks of 2020 can provide a top-notch computing experience, perfect for students, grandparents and anyone looking for a trouble-free laptop with long battery life. We've reviewed and rated the absolute best Chromebooks so that you can find the best value at any budget. Our buyer's guide will help you find the perfect Chrome OS laptop or tablet.Best overallLenovo Chromebook C340 (11.6")$239 at Walmart$320 at AmazonThe best Chromebook just got better.With double the USB ports and 8GB models on the horizon, Lenovo's aluminum-lidded laptop is more than a pretty face.Lenovo Chromebook C340 (11.6") Features11.6-inch 10-point IPS touchscreenAluminum lid, plastic bodyIntel Celeron N40004-8GB RAM, 32-64GB storageUp to 10-hour battery lifePretty pink or silver color optionsWhile last year's C330 skimped on ports, the Lenovo Chromebook C340 (also known as the C340-11) features a USB-A and USB-C p...

Free antivirus apps don't do much more than scan your device for existing threats. And because they are free, you can expect a lot of ads and a bit of slowdown because of the number of resources they use. After testing several free antivirus apps, my top pick is Sophos Intercept X for Mobile because of the extra security tools it comes with and how well it finds malware without causing too much drag.Best Overall: Sophos Intercept X for MobileThis app blocks calls and filters text messages for malicious links. Its QR scanner checks each link to make sure they are safe before connecting you or allowing a file to download. Sophos' anti-theft tools let you remotely access stolen phones to wipe data or reset passwords, send text commands to the thieves and track where your phone is.Sophos has a system scanner that looks for other security issues with your device and helps you secure them. This could be an outdated program or an app running in the background that doesn't need to be...

Have a carrier in mind or just looking for a cheap plan? Here are the cheapest plans you can get from each one.If you want to save money on your phone plan, there are more options than ever from new ways to save on the major carriers or going with an MVNO. MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) or alternative carriers, lease coverage from the larger networks and resell it for less.That being said, depending on your usage and needs, a plan from one of the Big Four might be your least expensive option. Here we go.Before choosing a planBefore you choose a carrier and/or a wireless plan, it's best to first determine your needs and usage habits. If this is your first smartphone, I'd like to first welcome you to the 21st Century and secondly encourage you to try out your options without getting yourself into any yearly or multi-year contracts.If this ain't your first rodeo, then reflect on your phone habits from the past. How much data have you actually used in an average month...

T-Mobile has a good lineup of phones at a variety of price points, ranging from the top of the line all the way down to affordable entry-level phones that you might not even need to finance monthly. Samsung dominates T-Mobile's high-end Android selection, but it's far from your only option.Best overallSamsung Galaxy S20+Staff pickThe Galaxy S20+ pretty much does it all. It has all of the latest and greatest specs, 5G support, an industry-leading display, amazing rear cameras that let you get a closer or wider shot at the touch of a button, and up to 30x zoom. Best of all, it's cheaper than the S20 Ultra and doesn't come with the same autofocusing issues.$1,200 at T-MobileProductivity flagshipSamsung Galaxy Note 10+The Galaxy Note 10+ is an incredible flagship, packing a huge 6.8-inch QHD display, a 4,300mAh battery, and of course, the S Pen. In addition to writing, drawing, and signing documents, the S Pen lets you control the Note 9 remotely, which means you can ...

Movie theaters may be closed, but that's no excuse to forego movie night. Kids have been waiting ever-so patiently (or not so patiently) for the sequel to the 2016 hit animated film Trolls, and today, Trolls World Tour is premiering exclusively on digital retailers like Vudu, iTunes, and Amazon Prime so they can watch the film from the safe, cozy living room couch.Where to watch Trolls World TourApple iTunesAmazon Prime VideoVuduGoogle PlayFandango NowXfinityTrolls World Tour is not available to own at this time. All digital retailers are offering a 48-hour rental of the film priced at $19.99, and that's an important distinction you'll want to take note of before spending your money. You might balk at the thought of spending so much on a rental when most sell anywhere between $1 and $6, though it'd be wise to take how much you're saving into account as well.Imagine taking your children to see Trolls World Tour at the theater this weekend. Would it cost $20? Maybe $...

Major upgradePS5 DualSenseLearn more at PlayStationProsAdaptive triggersImproved haptic feedbackLight bar surrounding touchpadNew textured grips, triggers, and thumbsticksUSB-C chargingBuilt-in microphone and create buttonConsSymmetrical thumbstick layoutLight bars still might drain battery There's good reason Sony didn't simply call this the DualShock 5. DualSense attempts to revolutionize the line with a more ergonomic form factor and features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that serve to enhance your immersion. It truly is the next big step that Sony is taking, and it speaks wonders for what the PS5 may be.On its way outDualShock 4$65 at Best BuyProsTouchpadShare buttonBuilt-in speakersLight bar used for certain gamesConsLight bar can drain the batteryGrips aren't comfortable to holdSymmetrical thumbstick layoutFace buttons and D-pad feel squishy to pressMicro-USB for chargingThe DualShock 4 added a light bar ...

What you pursue will be yours, but you will lose something dear…By now, you've probably learned that there are plenty of Summons in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, but did you know there are three summons you can only get based on how you purchased your copy of the game? Even if you got the right copy of the game, did you know these DLC Summons have to be added in separately? Lucky for you, we know exactly how to get your DLC Summons!What are the DLC Summons in Final Fantasy 7 Remake?There are a total of nine Summons that we know of in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, but three of them can only be obtained as DLC. These DLC are available depending on how you purchased your copy. If you preordered your copy —regardless of where you preordered it — you will get the Chocobo Chick Summon. If you purchased the Deluxe Edition or the First Class Edition, you will get both the Carbuncle Summon and the Cactaur Summon. These Summons have to be dowloaded separately and even then, you can't...

As much as we love the functionality that smartwatches offer, there's no denying that traditional, non-smart watches look way better more often than not. Thanks to the competitive market for hybrid watches, it's possible to get something that looks like a regular watch but still offers some of the best features of a smartwatch. If you think the hybrid life might be for you, here are the ones we recommend!A hybrid done rightFossil Hybrid HRStaff pickFossil is one of the most popular watch brands on the market and its hybrid models are no exception. The Fossil Hybrid HR boasts over two weeks of battery life and has heart-rate monitoring, activity tracking, smartphone notifications, and music controls. It's available in a variety of fashionable styles, too.$195 at Amazon$195 at FossilMinimal beautySkagen ConnectedOur first pick on this list is the Skagen Connected. The sleek, minimalist design is something we can't get enough of, with the 42mm case making this a...

Hangouts Meet met the same fate yesterday.What you need to knowGoogle is renaming Hangouts Chat as Google Chat.The change comes after the company similarly dropped the Hangouts from Hangouts Meet.The consumer-oriented Hangouts app will keep its name, however, so the Hangouts brand isn't quite dead yet.When Google updated its support pages to remove the Hangouts from Hangouts Meet yesterday, we wondered if Hangouts Chat was also going to meet the same fate. Well, Google just confirmed today that it will and has officially renamed Hangout Chats as Google Chat.Despite not releasing an official statement on its blogs, the company confirmed its plans for a rebranding to The Verge. If you head over to the Google's support landing page and the page dedicated to the app, you can see the change is now in effect.The rebranding effort is far from complete, though, because not only does the Play Store listing still refer to Hangouts Chat — the same is true of Google Meet, by the ...

Apple and Google are partnering up in a huge way.What you need to knowApple and Google are partnering to fight COVID-19.The companies are working on technology to help with contact tracing.They will use Bluetooth technology to help keep user privacy in check.Apple has announced a joint partnership with Google to assist governments and health agencies in fighting against the coronavirus pandemic. Apple made the announcement in a press release on the Apple Newsroom website this afternoon. "Google and Apple are announcing a joint effort to enable the use of Bluetooth technology to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of the virus, with user privacy and security central to the design."The companies have recognized contact tracing as a valuable tool in slowing the spread of the virus, and have committed to building a solution that uses Bluetooth technology to help track the pandemic. The companies say that using Bluetooth, rather than location tracking, ...

You don't need to be a hardcore germaphobe in order to understand the threat that germs and bacteria pose to our daily lives and wellbeing. Whether you're trying to rid your home of harmful elements that cause sickness or simply want to breathe cleaner air so you can increase your productivity, living in a germ-free environment is absolutely essential.But the truth is that hand-washing and basic sanitation methods only go so far when it comes to eliminating harmful germs and bacteria throughout the home.The ROCKUBOT: Sterilizing Robot takes cleanliness to an entirely new level by allowing you to eliminate 99.9% of harmful bacteria, germs, viruses and mites in just seconds, and right now it's on sale for over 20% off its usual price at just $99.95.Having been successfully funded on both Indiegogo and Kickstarter, this all-in-one sterilization tool will help you live a happier and cleaner life both at home and in the office.The ROCKUBOT uses state-of-the-art technology in order to...

You know how to use this, right?Materia, the beautiful, luminescent crystals found throughout the world of Final Fantasy VII. All magic requires Materia and there are many, many Materia. Some are easy to find or even given to you as you progress in the game; while others can be missed if you don't have a careful eye. A few can't even be obtained until you've beat the game. Fortunately, we know where to find and how to use every Materia in the Final Fantasy VII Remake.What is Materia anyway?In the world of Final Fantasy VII, Materia are pieces of crystalized Mako, the lifeblood of the planet. These powerful crystals grant the holder the ability to cast spells, boost their stats, and even summon incredible spirits to fight alongside them in battle. In order to use magic in the Final Fantasy VII Remake, you'll need to scour each stage to find these glowing crystals. Fortunately, you can go back and replay using the Chapter Select feature in case you miss one.How do I equip Mat...

Endless detailsFitbit Charge 4$150 at FitbitProsOnboard GPS with 20+ exercise modesHeart-rate monitoringMobile paymentsSpotify Connect & ControlSeven-day battery lifeConsSlightly more expensiveLarger bodyThe Fitbit Charge 4 is the latest addition to the company's fitness tracker lineup. It's designed with in-depth activity and health tracking in mind, so you get every detail regarding your health easily. You'll also enjoy built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, 5 ATM water resistance, and seven days of battery life.For casual athletesGarmin Vivosport$126 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart-rate monitoringMusic controlsAlways-on color displaySeven-day battery lifeConsMore affordableLess appealing designIf you want accurate fitness tracking but don't have a deep desire for extras, you might prefer something a bit more simplistic like the Garmin Vivosport. You'll still have the essentials, like built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, 5 A...

The Google search button has also gone away.What you need to knowThe spacebar in Gboard for Android now has 'Google' branding on it.Users on reddit as well as Google's Android Help forum are criticizing the search giant for the move. In addition to the 'Google' branding to the spacebar, the latest Gboard update also removes the Google Search button.Google's Gboard is one of the most popular popular keyboard apps for Android, thanks to its smart features and an intuitive design. Google is now rolling out two major changes to Gboard, both of which seem to have annoyed a large number of users. Many users have taken to reddit and Google's Android Help forum to voice their displeasure over these changes.Gboard for Android now has the Google logo on the spacebar, while the Google search shortcut has disappeared. Google reportedly began adding its logo to Gboard roughly a month back, although the change now appears to be a lot more widespread. Since it appears to be a server-s...