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The update mainly focuses on bug fixes.What you need to knowOnePlus has released OxygenOS Open Beta 6 for the OnePlus 6 and 6T.It comes with the March 2020 Android security patch and a few bug fixes.The update isn't widely available over-the-air just yet. OnePlus released OxygenOS Open Beta 5 for the OnePlus 6 and 6T phones in late February, bringing the February 2020 security patch, improved system stability, and a few new features to the two flagship phones. As per a report from XDA Developers, OnePlus is now pushing OxygenOS Open Beta 6 for the OnePlus 6 series phones.Unlike the last build, OxygenOS Open Beta 6 for the OnePlus 6 and 6T does not bring any new feature. It only comes with the March 2020 Android security patch and a few bug fixes. Once you install the new update on your device, you will no longer have to deal with blank screens while clearing background apps.The update also fixes issues with the LockBox feature in File Manager and the crashes in the laun...

While Chromebooks can't install more traditional screen recording applications, the truth is that these days all you need to record your screen is a good Chrome extension. Google doesn't offer its own screen recording extension, unfortunately, but there are plenty of screen recording extensions out there from third parties, chief among them being Screencastify. Now that a lot of us are working from home and might need some extra help on our home devices, here's how to start recording.Products used in this guideCompact workhorse: Lenovo Chromebook C340-11 ($320 at Amazon)Record and store: Screencastify (Free at Chrome Web Store)How to record the screen on your ChromebookYour steps might have some small variations based on which recording extension you install. I chose Screencastify because it doesn't watermark free recordings and the five minute limit on free recordings should be enough for most of us.Tap Add to Chrome on Screencastify's Chrome Web Store listing.Tap A...

It could be revealed as soon as next month.What you need to knowAccording to at least one leaker, a phone with a 192MP camera is currently under progress.The phone is also said to feature a Snapdragon 765.While the chipset can support a sensor with that resolution, it would be the absolute upper limit of what the Snapdragon SoC is capable of.If the Galaxy S20 Ultra's 108MP beast of a camera still isn't good enough for your picture-perfect photography predilections, a phone sporting a 192MP camera may currently be under development to soothe your pain. At least, that's what leakster 数码闲聊站 (Digital Chat Station) is saying on Weibo (via Android Authority).Interestingly, the phone will sport a Snapdragon 765, so it's likely not going to be a flagship. That's not all that surprising, though. After all, the first 108MP phone we got was Xiaomi's Mi Note 10, which is also a midrange phone powered by a Snapdragon 730G.Unfortunately, however, while the Snapdragon 765 ...

Verizon's wireless coverage is legendary, especially if you live in the country but it's far from the cheapest carrier. Still, if you pick the right plan, you can get access to the strong Verizon network without paying for any features you don't need. You can change your account either online or in the My Verizon app. You will need to sign in with your Verizon account before being able to explore additional plans.Products used in this guideStay in control with an unlocked phone: Google Pixel 3a ($350 at Best Buy)Get the app for Android: My Verizon (Free on Google Play)How to change your plan onlineBefore you proceed, take some time to understand when you want to apply the changes. You can select "Today" to apply changes immediately, "This cycle" to apply it to the beginning of the current billing cycle, and "Next cycle" to apply changes starting with your next billing cycle.Navigate to the Change Your Plan page on the My Verizon website.Click Explore plans.Follow th...

Whether you use them for working out at the gym, listening to tunes at the coffee shop, or just for ambient noise while working around the house, headphones/earbuds are essential tools. Unfortunately, if you use them for too long without cleaning them, they can turn into disgusting messes. To make sure that doesn't happen, here are a few helpful cleaning tips that'll make it quick and easy to keep your audio gear in tip-top shape.Products used in this guideANC beast Bose QC35 II ($299 at Amazon)Truly wireless: Aukey Key Series EP-T18NC ($140 at Amazon)How to clean your headphonesWhen it comes to cleaning headphones, you'll want to make sure you clean both the headphones themselves and, perhaps more importantly, the speaker pads covering them. Starting first with the outside of your headphones, here's what you'll want to do:Remove the earpads on both ends.Wipe down the exterior of the headphones with a cloth that's been dampened with soap and warm water.Dry everythin...

You don't have to lookfar to find some of the best PS4 prices and discounts from a variety of retailers. Sony's PlayStation continues to dominate the console scene, and even as Sony and its competitors gear up for a new generation of console, the PlayStation 4 shows no signs of slowing down. It still has some of the best games of the generation, including some exclusives you can't find anywhere else. If you haven't invested in the console yet, there has never been a better time. New and better deals get released regularly. If you've already bought one of the consoles in the past, maybe today is the day you upgrade to a higher storage capacity or even jump up to the PlayStation 4 Pro.Best PlayStation Deals Available NowPlayStation 4: Prices from $285PlayStation 4 Pro: As low as $350More Info: Pricing history, which to buy & moreOur team has had an eye on the PlayStation 4 for years, and we've been tracking the best prices, the best deals, and all the best bundles and c...

The two phones were announced in February 2016.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge phones will no longer receive any new software updates.The two phones have been pulled from Samsung's list of devices receiving Android security updates. Samsung had rolled out the March 2020 security patch to the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge last month. The Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, which were launched in early 2016, have finally been pulled from Samsung's list of devices receiving security updates (Via DroidLife). Until March last year, the two phones were receiving monthly security updates. In April 2019, the two phones were shifted to a quarterly update schedule.A vast majority of Android phones receive regular security updates for a period of two years from launch. Google's Pixel phones, however, receive security updates for up to three years. The same goes for phones that are part of Google's Android One program. So it is commendable that Samsung has supported the Galaxy S7 duo...

If you're staying at home or working from a place with Wi-Fi, you may find that you have more data on your phone plan than you need. Making sure you have a plan that offers everything you need with nothing you don't can be a great way to save money. You can change your T-Mobile plan, for example, by visiting the My T-Mobile section on T-Mobile's website. From there you'll be able to see your lines and available plans once you've signed into your account.Products used in this guideGrab an unlocked phone: Google Pixel 3a ($350 at Best Buy)A Galaxy with 5G support: Samsung Galaxy S20 ($800 at Best Buy)Change your plan onlineNavigate to My T-Mobile on T-Mobile's website.Click on ACCOUNT.Select your current plan.Click Manage my plan.Follow the prompts to select a new plan and confirm your selection.Unlike some other carriers, T-Mobile does not allow you to modify your plan through the T-Mobile app. It must be done online or with customer support. If you aren't sure what...

Grab one before they're gone!Rage 2 is a post-apocalyptic first-person shooter from Bethesda. The game recently got a few expansions, and plays better than ever. If you're a fan of the shooter, or like collecting items, you'll be happy to know that the Rage 2: Collector's Edition, that comes with a talking mutant head, is around $41 on Xbox One. The PlayStation 4 and PC versions are a little more expensive.You can take a look at the contents below.Ruckus the Crusher Talking Head: Everyone's favorite mutant is ready to become the new conversation piece in your household. This extremely limited edition mountable head features a motion sensor that lets it talk and sing for hours! Ruckus the Crusher Head is approximately 12 inches (in.) by 7 in. x 5 in. Rise of the Ghosts Expansion: You'll just need to buy the second one if you get this edition, the first expansion is free with the package. Steelbook: A steel case featuring the Goon Squad's finest artwork.Digital items: BFG g...

The vanilla OnePlus 8 will not support wireless charging.What you need to knowRenders showing the 30W wireless charging dock for the OnePlus 8 Pro have leaked online.In addition to the wireless charging dock, leaked renders of the first-party screen protector and a transparent bumper case for the OnePlus 8 series phones have also surfaced.The wireless charging dock is rumored to be priced at €70 ($76) in Europe. In exactly a week from now, OnePlus will officially unveil its next flagship smartphones – the OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro at a virtual event. Ahead of the launch event, high-res renders showing the 30W wireless charging dock for the OnePlus 8 Pro have surfaced, courtesy of prolific leaker Evan Blass. Since the wireless charging dock will support 30W charging speeds, it comes equipped with a built-in cooling fan to keep it from overheating. According to TechDroider, the wireless "Warp" charging dock will be able to fully charge the OnePlus 8 Pro in 80 minutes. ...

If you're tired of your current home entertainment setup and looking to level up your setup, today's sale on the Westinghouse 65-inch 4K UHD Roku TV at Best Buy is not one to be missed. This 4K smart TV is down to just $399.99 right now, saving you $200 off its full cost of $6000. This deal matches the best price we've ever seen it reach, though that offer was only around for a single day.Cutting the cord becomes so much easier with a TV like this 65-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+, Apple TV+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and much more.It's even compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control if you have a device like the Echo Dot. It can also stream music from popular streaming services like Spotify. Using the Roku TV ...

As a general rule, you should clean your mouse once a week. Computer peripherals like keyboards and mice are often teeming with bacteria, but they're easy to disinfect with products like rubbing alcohol. While you have to take special care when cleaning your phone, you can use Clorox or Lysol disinfectant wipes on your mouse. Here's how to thoroughly clean and disinfect your mouse.Products used in this guideDisinfect your gear: Clorox 3-Pack Disinfecting Wipes ($10 at Target)Buff the dirt away: 3M Microfiber Lens Cleaning Cloth 5-Pack ($15 at Amazon)How to properly clean and disinfect your mouseWhether you're using a gaming mouse designed for MOBA titles or a portable wireless option, there are a few things that you can do for all mice. If you're using a wired mouse, unplug it from your computer. For a wireless mouse, switch it off and remove the batteries.Pour some water on a microfiber cloth and run it over the mouse, ensuring to remove any dirt from the surface. Now d...

Sprint has some of the best values around for family plans and plans with a lot of hotspot data. Sprint's higher-tiered plans also come with some compelling extras like Hulu, Tidal, and Amazon Prime. If you find you don't need some of these extras there is some room to save some money without changing your carrier. You can change your Sprint plan in your account settings on Sprint's website. As long as the plan works with your phone you're good to go. Don't expect to be able to go back to your old plan though if it's no longer offered.Products used in this guideKeep your options open with an unlocked phone: Google Pixel 3a ($350 at Best Buy)Get ready for 5G: Samsung Galaxy S20 5G ($900 at Best Buy)Change your plan on Sprint's websiteNavigate to Sprint's website.Select My Account then Change Plan.Choose the device you want to modify the plan on.Choose your plan and click Add to cart.Click Continue then Checkout.If everything looks correct, click on Complete plan chang...

There are quite a few options for AT&T available, whether you need unlimited data, 5G access, or just basic connectivity. Many people may find that they pay for way more service than they really need and could stand to save quite a bit of money. You can find an AT&T plan that works better for you and change it in the myAT&T app or on AT&T's website. Just make sure you get enough data and don't drop out of 5G support if you want it.Products used in this guideGrab an unlocked phone from Google: Google Pixel 3a ($350 at Best Buy)Manage your account from your phone: myAT&T app (Free on Google Play)Change your plan online or with the appOpen the myAT&T app or navigate to myAT&T online.Select Change my plan.Browse the available plans.Select the plan that works best for you.Choose Select & review and follow the prompts to complete the change.AT&T has a lot of mobile plans to choose from including unlimited plans and data share plans. ...

Needless to say, the 5G variant will carry a higher price tag.What you need to knowA new rumor claims Samsung will launch a 5G-enabled variant of the foldable Galaxy Z Flip later this year.The 5G variant of the phone is expected to be launched only in countries where 5G networks are already live.There is no word yet on whether the 5G Galaxy Z Flip will come with a bigger battery. Samsung is currently the world's biggest vendor of 5G-enabled smartphones. While the company has so far launched only flagship devices with 5G connectivity, it is soon expected to launch at least two new mid-range 5G phones. Surprisingly, however, Samsung's $1,380 Galaxy Z Flip does not support 5G.According to a new report from SamMobile, a 5G-enabled variant of the Galaxy Z Flip is in the pipeline and will debut sometime later this year. The 5G variant of the foldable phone will only be launched in select markets, where 5G networks are live. Sadly, though, the report doesn't confirm any other ke...

The Google Nest Wifi router 3-pack is down to $314.99 at Woot. That's $85 off the bundle's usual price and one of the best deals we've ever seen for Google's mesh networking system. An individual router sells for $169, so you're saving over $100 versus buying them individually. The 3-pack is offered in new conditon, though they are backed by a 90-day Woot warranty rather than a 1-year manufacturer's warranty which is the main reason for the discount.Google Nest Wifi is one of the simplest mesh networking systems around. It really does a lot of the work for you, and it's designed to be super easy to use. The three routers work together to cover your whole home in a seamless blanket of Wi-Fi that won't require any manual switching from you once it's setup. You could be on a video call in one room and walk to another room covered by a different router without having your call get interrupted at all.The 3-pack of routers can cover up to 6,600 square feet. Plug one router into your mo...

Starting today, WhatsApp messages can only be forwarded to one chat at a time.What you need to knowWhatsApp is tackling the spread of misinformation on its platform by putting limits on message forwarding.Starting today, users can only forward messages to one chat at a time. WhatsApp is also teaming up with local governments and NGOs over a coronavirus information hub. Last week, I wrote about how the message forwarding feature in WhatsApp was being used to spread misinformation on COVID-19, and suggested the platform disable message forwarding entirely.WhatsApp is now putting severe limits on message forwards during this crisis. You can only forward messages to one chat at a time, with WhatsApp noting that it is enforcing the change to limit the spread of fake content on the service: Last year we introduced users to the concept of messages that have been forwarded many times. These messages are labeled with double arrows to indicate they did not originate from a clos...

Across the world people are being impacted and forced to make big changes to the way they live, and in many countries and states schools are being shut down, which means parents are looking for the best online learning tools for their kids. Luckily, there are a lot of online learning tools that can be used from the comfort of your own home, and many of them offer free trials. While you are busy working from home, you'll want to keep your kids busy as well.Many school districts have provided kids a way to learn from home, but sometimes that isn't enough. Your kids likely have a lot of time on their hands these days, and keeping their brains learning new things is always a great plan.Best Online Learning Websites for KidsABCmouse: 30-day trial + 49% off annualReading IQ: 7,000 books with 30-days of free accessAdventure Academy: One month free, 49% off annual planKiwiCo: Save 15%Homer: Try it for freeCurious World: $6.39 per month with couponReading Eggs: Two weeks freeRos...

How will I kill time now?What you need to knowHulu is currently down for some people.The outages are spread across the U.S.The troubles began at around 8 pm, Eastern time.If you're stuck at home and were hoping to kill some time binging the latest season of Marvel's Runaways, you're likely to be disappointed. Hulu has been experiencing outages across the U.S.The issues seems to have started around 8 pm, Eastern time, with DownDetector reporting a peak of 1,163 reports at around 10:20 pm. The problems seems to relate to Live TV, where users reporting no or very few channels are available:ummmm, excuse me @hulu and @hulu_support your chat and phones are down. There's no channels in Live TV guide. There's almost no channels in network menu and you're tweeting about shows that no one across the country can watch. Outage is everywhere. What's the plan, Stan?— Cliff Dorfman (@cliffdorfman) April 7, 2020The outage reports have started to drop off in the last hour, though...

Normally you can find it just about anywhere, but right now it's not so easy to figure out where to buy hand sanitizer. Supply is at an all-time low, and finding it can be quite difficult. People are buying up all the essentials, and hand sanitizer is one of the hardest things to find right now. It's crucial in keeping your hands clean, so you'll want to have some for sure.Where to buy hand sanitizer todayTarget: Drive up service optionalHome Depot: A secret weaponOffice Depot: The most varietyCVS: Online inventory is re-stocked!Walmart: In-store pickup availableAs a result of this, not only is the supply really low, but the few that are in stock have seen prices rise from third-party sellers who are gobbling them up and reselling. Amazon has started cracking down on the price surge, but that isn't helping with the supply issues. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the situation a pandemic, and health officials are warning that things will only g...

If you like platformers, this list is for you.A lot of you probably remember the heyday of the platformer. Whether it was Super Mario Bros or even classic Metroid, this style of game has been around a long time and it has aged incredibly well. We still see awesome platformer games like Trine and Hollow Knight to this day.The point, however, is that "platformer" isn't really all that definitive. All it does is describe how the game in question plays and it's not always 2D; 3D platformers are less common, but they still exist. All of that being said, this style of game translates extremely well to mobile and you'll find that any one of the entries in this list are wonderfully fun additions to your Play library.Castlevania: Symphony of the NightThe mobile platform has given many older games a chance to shine once more thanks to their low processing requirements. There are many classic titles on the Play Store, like KOTOR and some of Sega's stuff, but one I really want to highl...

No Man's Sky is about to get even better.What you need to knowNo Man's Sky is a space adventure from Hello Games.The game is getting mechs soon. A trailer was posted on the Xbox YouTube channel, but immediately removed. You can grab No Man's Sky for $28 on Amazon. No Man's Sky is an "open-galaxy" space simulator where you can go anywhere and make a mark for yourself. The title has received a number of updates over the past several months, but an upcoming patch may just be the coolest.Xbox's YouTube channel posted a trailer for No Man's Sky that featured mechs. Yes, you read that right! However, it was promptly removed. Well, many others reported it on YouTube and now it's everywhere. Traverse and explore planetary surfaces safe from extreme conditions in your very own mech with our latest free No Man's Sky update.Hopefully, the update will officially be announced soon. I really hope it's easy to build a mech because I don't want to grind for hours and hours...

Each and every one of us has a vital role to play in stopping the rapid spread of coronavirus around the world. Considering the virus can be transmitted from person to person through a cough, sneeze, talking, or even just vapor (breath), all you really have to do is go outside to a public area to potentially contract the sickness. The American Lung Association Chief Medical Officer Albert Rizzo, M.D. stated in an email that "early reports show that the virus can live in droplets in the air for up to one to three hours after an infected individual has left an area."There is no substitute for washing your hands and social distancing by staying at home. Those are the most effective ways to keep from getting yourself and those around you sick. However, it's impossible for anyone to go weeks on end without actually leaving their house. Whether you need to run to the grocery store to stock up on food and household essentials or you're picking up dinner at a local restaurant to take back ho...

A centralized hub for the most talked about topic on the planet.What you need to knowGoogle has created a COVID-19 hub dedicated to highlighting in-depth coverage of the coronavirus pandemic.Assistant will now be able to offer discrete responses to coronavirus news queries as a result of this backend change.Google's Search homepage will also celebrate health workers and other essential workers this week.Google is making it easier to access and engage with news revolving around COVID-19. In the Google News app and website, the company has added a new COVID-19 landing page. Upon navigating there from the homepage, you'll be able to see, at a glance, all the top stories on the pandemic. It'll be a bit more organized as well, with local news being front and center. The purpose is to let individuals have a grasp of any important updates in their area like lockdowns, testing centers, or even just health updates of local political figures.On a broader scale, the new hub will le...

It took months to get here, but we finally have it.What you need to knowOn April 6, Google began rolling out the April 2020 security patch to Pixel phones.It's been discovered that this patch includes a "require eyes to be open" toggle for the Pixel 4's face unlock.This is something that's been missing since launch and makes face unlock much more secure.The Pixel 4 has one of the best face unlock systems ever seen on an Android phone. It's incredibly fast, uses Motion Sense to engage itself without you having to press the power button, and is the first Android face unlock to work as a form of biometric authentication for major banking apps, password managers, etc.Unfortunately, ever since the Pixel 4 hit the market back in October 2019, there's been a serious security vulnerability with the way it's set up — it worked even if your eyes were closed. This means someone could grab your phone, hold it up to your face while you were asleep or otherwise weren't paying attenti...

I think it's safe to say that we're currently living in uncertain times. People are working from home, kids are out of school, and there's a nationwide push for everyone to stay home and not go outside unless they absolutely have to, and everyone is trying to figure out where to buy face masks (or how to make them at home).Amazon: Shop from homeLowe's: Check your local storeAce Hardware: If you need N95CVS: Your mileage may varyWalgreens: Press your luckDollar General: Super affordableStaying healthy and safe while in the comfort of your own home is pretty easy, but what are you supposed to do for those times when you absolutely have to leave to buy groceries, pick up dinner, or get your prescription? Staying at least six-feet from other people and being mindful not to touch your face is likely enough for most people, but if you have a weaker immune system or another underlying health condition that makes you more vulnerable to viruses, it's not a bad idea to wear a fa...

Google's own carrier offering definitely has appealing features.If you're an Android enthusiast, you likely know about Google Fi. But that doesn't mean you necessarily know everything about it. And now that the service has opened up to everyone with an unlocked phone, there's a lot to get caught up on. So we're here to give you the high-level view at the carrier option that comes directly from Google. Namely, just what the heck it is, how it works compared to other carriers and maybe a few reasons why you'd want to try it.How does Google Fi Work?Google Fi's response to COVID-19Does Google Fi support 5G?Which phones make the most of FiWhat if I need support?Switching to Google FiNo surprisesGoogle FiSee at Google FiLet your phone pick the best networkThinking about your phone carrier usually isn't good but Google Fi manages to be an afterthought with network switching and a great app. Google Fi eliminates overages and makes international travel a breeze. It's ...

UK Ministers have condemned these theories as dangerous nonsense.What you need to knowConspiracy theories linking 5G and COVID-19 have spread like wildfire on YouTube and other social platforms.Google will now remove all conspiracy videos drawing a link between the two.These videos have resulted in threats of assault and acts of arson against moile engineers.5G conspiracy theories have been popular even before the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic but they've taken a new life since then. Conspiracy theories spuriously linking the two have grown in popularity on YouTube and other platforms, even resulting in threats and assaults aimed at mobile engineers in the UK. Arson attacks have been carried out targeting 5G masts in an attempt to stop the perceived threat.There's just one problem. There's no link between 5G and coronavirus. In the words of the UK's Minister of the Cabinet Office, Michael Gove, it's "just nonsense, dangerous nonsense as well."YouTube is now taking a s...

It's back!What you need to knowSaints Row is an over-the-top action series from Deep Silver.Saints Row: The Third is getting remastered for PC and consoles. The remaster launches on May 22. There are also rumors floating around that there's a new game in the works.The Saints Row series is known for its bizarre plot, over-the-top action, and crazy weapons. It's a lot like Grand Theft Auto to be honest, except it makes no sense. With that said, the games are amazing and one of the best entries in the franchise, Saints Row: The Third, is getting remastered for Xbox One, PC, and PlayStation 4. Today, publisher Deep Silver revealed more details.The press release said the following. We are excited to announce that Saints Row: The Third Remastered will come to Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC on May 22, 2020. A much-requested addition to the Saints Row lineup, we can't wait to bring that special brand of Saints mayhem to your current generation consoles. Expertly handle...

The sudden and swift outbreak of the coronavirus has forced millions of people to stay indoors—robbing them of their usual exercise routine and making it incredibly difficult to stay healthy and subsequently happy.But when it comes to relieving stress and boosting your mood, taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body. And the good news is that you don't need to spend an exorbitant amount of time or money on traditional meditation classes in order to get real results.MindFi Mindfulness is an award-winning platform that will help you decompress and boost your focus anywhere and any time, and a lifetime subscription is currently on sale for over 85% off at just $39.Crafted with both novice meditators and seasoned pros in mind, this streamlined app makes it easy to conquer the day ahead—thanks to a series of mindfulness and relaxation exercises crafted by top meditation experts and leading neuroscientists.You'll be able to relax and recharge any tim...

Here's the breakdown of how much data streaming music and video use so you know how much to budget.The things most of us love to do with our phones is also the thing that eats the most data: stream music and video. Your phone is your entertainment center, only with a data cap.Modern phones and streaming services were made for each other. Your phone is capable of delivering high-quality content through the screen or its audio components and streaming services like YouTube, Netflix and Spotify were made to deliver them. The first popular media-centric phone was the iPhone and both Apple and Google owe a lot of their success to this because it was also the best way to watch YouTube in the palm of your hands.Things have come a long way since then, but one thing hasn't changed. We love to watch and listen with our phones. But the advent of HD video streaming and high-bitrate audio streaming means that it also gobbles up the data like never before. Let's break it down to see jus...

Fixing the latest bugs and exploits in Android every month.Google has detailed the latest Android Security Bulletin and released the fixes for Pixel devices.These are exploits and other security concerns that affect Android as a whole. Issues with the operating system, kernel patches, and driver updates may not affect any particular device, but these need to be fixed in the Android base by the folks maintaining the operating system code. That means Google, and they've detailed the things they have improved for this month.Updated factory images for Pixel devices that are supported are available, and over-the-air updates are rolling out to users. If you don't want to wait, you can download and flash the factory image or OTA update file manually, and here are some handy instructions to get you started.How to manually update your Pixel The company that made your phone uses these patches to send an update out to you.These changes have been released to the people making Andr...

Nothing exciting this month, folks.What you need to knowGoogle began rolling out the April 2020 security patch to its Pixel phones on April 6.This month's patch includes Bluetooth and framework fixes, but that's about it.Devices from the Pixel 2 up to the Pixel 4 are eligible for the update.Just like clockwork, Google is using the new month of April to push out a new security patch to its Pixel smartphones. The April 2020 patch began rolling out to devices on April 6, and this month, there's nothing too terribly exciting to see.Taking a look at the Pixel Phone Help forum, Google calls out three notable updates — all of which are bug fixes and not new features.There are fixes for two Bluetooth issues, one of which was preventing additional Bluetooth Low Energy connections while the other patches an issue with Bluetooth audio input being dropped in "certain scenarios."The third and final update is a framework fix, specifically, a fix for lag when opening the keyboar...

Now's a great time to save on your phone bill.Due to recent events, there's a really good chance you're stuck at home right now — whether it be from school or work. As a side effect of that, you're likely using a lot less mobile data with your phone than you usually do.Most of us probably have unlimited or high-allotment data plans. While those are helpful for times when we're away from Wi-Fi and traveling about, it's highly unnecessary when you're in your house 24/7 with plenty of your home network to go around.There's no need to spend more money per month than you need to, so now is a perfect time to consolidate your current wireless plan and look into downgrading it (at least for the time being).See if you can temporarily downgrade your current planFirst thing's first, you'll want to get in touch with your current carrier and make sure you can downgrade your plan without any fees/restrictions.One and two-year contracts used to be the norm for wireless plans here in...

Microsoft's affordable Wireless Mobile Mouse 4000 is back to one of its best prices in history via Best Buy. While supplies last, you can get your hands on one for only $9.99 and save 50% off its full price.Microsoft's Wireless Mobile Mouse is the perfect size to keep in your bag so you're always prepared. It comes with a USB nano transceiver which you plug into your computer to setup wireless functionality. It's super simple to use and with Microsoft's BlueTrack technology, you can use this mouse on virtually any surface. It even has an ambidextrous design so you can use it whether you're left-handed or right-handed. When you're done using the mouse, its USB transceiver can be hidden away near the battery compartment so it never goes missing. And best of all, it's compatible with both Windows and Mac computers.This wireless mouse has a range of up to 15 feet and can last for over 10 months using a single AA battery. There's also an on and off button to help conserve battery life...

A "Pro" variant of the phone with beefier specs is expected to break cover in the near future.What you need to knowVivo today launched the global variant of its V19 mid-range smartphone.The phone comes with a Snapdragon 712 chipset, 32MP dual selfie cameras, and 48MP quad rear cameras. It is expected to go on sale in several markets, including India, in the coming weeks. Vivo today unveiled its first smartphone with a dual hole-punch display, called the V19. The phone was originally slated to debut in India on March 26, but the company decided to cancel the event due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.The new Vivo V19 sports a 6.44-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a pill-shaped hole-punch cutout housing a 32MP main selfie camera and an 8MP "super wide-angle" camera. It is powered by a Snapdragon 712 processor, which has been coupled with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage.The mid-range phone comes with a quad-camera setup at the rear, featuring a 48MP main sensor. T...

If you're tired of your current home entertainment setup and looking to level up your setup, today's sale on the Westinghouse 58-inch 4K UHD Roku TV at Best Buy is not one to be missed. This 4K smart TV is down to just $279.99 right now, saving you $70 off its full cost of $350. This deal matches the best price we've ever seen it reach, though that offer was only around for a single day.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+, Apple TV+, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and much more.It's even compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control if you have a device like the Echo Dot. It can also stream music from popular streaming services like Spotify. Using the Roku TV ap...

When you can't get to the theater, bring the theater home to you.Bigger is better when it comes to video. Full stop. Nobody wants a smaller television. Nobody wants a smaller picture. And that's good, because bigger televisions — with higher resolutions — are getting less expensive all the time. Turns out that's also true for laser projectors.I met up with the folks at VAVA at CES in January 2020, and they sent over their VAVA 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector, which I've used for a couple months before it heads back home. It's a more-affordable laser projector. (Or maybe less unaffordable?)And it's absolutely changed the way I watch things in my living room. In fact, it made me want to change the living room itself. I am, in fact, changed.Ultra short throw 4KVAVA laser projector The Botton Line: If you're goin...

Wearing a smartwatch is supposed to be an all-day, all-night affair, and that includes while working from home. Being in your humble abode also means you can take breaks for meals or get a quick chore done. If you leave your phone behind in your home office space, your wrist can tell you what you need to know. Whether it's a quick call you can take through Bluetooth headphones or knowing just how sedentary you've become, a smartwatch can be a helpful tool.Keep in touchSamsung Galaxy Watch Active 2Staff PickThe Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is the closest you can find to a smartwatch that straddles the line enough toward sustained productivity. Notifications for incoming messages are actionable when you have your phone within range. It won't fully integrate all messaging and email apps you use, but it's still good enough to keep you apprised.$250 at Best BuyGet up and moveFitbit Versa 2While every smartwatch can get you moving, the Fitbit Versa 2 benefits fro...

It isn't clear if the earbuds will offer active noise cancellation.What you need to knowPurported renders of Samsung's next-generation Galaxy Buds earbuds have surfaced.The renders suggest the earbuds will have an all-new design, with a bean-like shape. Samsung could launch the earbuds in August this year, alongside the Galaxy Note 20 series.When Samsung introduced the Galaxy Buds+ earlier this year, some were disappointed with the company's decision to leave the design largely unchanged. The earbuds do not offer active noise cancellation either, which is also disappointing. According to a report from WinFuture, Samsung is now working on a new pair of true wireless earbuds, codenamed "beans." The report includes several renders of the next-gen Galaxy Buds, apparently based on sketches and 3D models of the earbuds. As you can see in the renders above, the earbuds will have a bean-like design, with two speaker drivers located in the lower part. Along with the two spe...

As sleek as it getsSkagen Falster 3$207 at AmazonProsStunning sleek designOnboard GPS, NFC, heart-rate monitoringGoogle AssistantMusic storageNew Snapdragon Wear 3100ConsShort battery lifeBattery saving modes are restrictiveWant to keep things as sleek as possible when choosing a wearable? Look no further than the Skagen Falster 3. You get a lot in this slightly smaller package, including GPS, NFC, and heart-rate monitoring. You'll enjoy upgraded RAM and storage plus the new Snapdragon Wear 3100 processor.Bigger can be betterFossil Gen 5 Carlyle$208 at AmazonProsBigger and bolder designOnboard GPS, NFC, heart-rate monitoringGoogle AssistantMusic storageNew Snapdragon Wear 3100ConsShort battery lifeBattery saving modes are restrictiveYou can have it all with the Carlyle, too. If you prefer a bigger case, the 44 mm size might be more attractive to you. You'll still enjoy key features, including GPS, NFC, and heart-rate monitorin...

The Seagate Backup Plus 10TB hard drive is down to $159.99 at Adorama. You can also find this deal at B&H, but the shipping currently isn't free (and was $9 for me), so go with Adorama to save on the shipping costs. This is an all-time low price for the hard drive, and it hasn't gone this low since last year's Black Friday sales. The drive normally sells for around $200 or as much as $240 at most retailers. It's actually going above $270 in some places like Best Buy. This price is so low it's less expensive than the 8TB version, so you're basically getting an extra 2TB for free.More than just a hard drive, the hub includes two USB 3.0 ports on the front. You can use these ports to transfer data like from a USB camera or thumb drive, but you can also look at them as charging ports for your mobile devices. Since this drive is large and will likely sit right on your desktop, it gives you some ports that are in a very convenient location for charging.With 10TB of space, you shoul...

Now that we're all practicing social distancing and staying at home more often than not, it's the perfect opportunity to re-think your living spaces and switch them into something new. With Woot's one-day sale on Vivitek projectors, you can grab one for your home starting at just $129.99 and completely re-create your home entertainment space. There's a myriad of different options on sale right now too, so whether you want something portable, a model which supports 4K streaming, or if you're just looking for something affordable, you should have no trouble finding a few decent picks that fit your needs.Each of the projectors today is only available as a factory reconditioned model. While they're not brand new, they've each been inspected and tested by Vivitek to ensure they're in proper working condition. The company even includes a 6-month warranty just to cover any issues you might find once it arrives at your home.The most affordable projector on sale today is Vivitek's Qumi Q3...

One of Best Buy's deals of the day is a 4-pack of the Netgear Orbi AC1200 dual-band mesh Wi-Fi system and it's down to $100. That's a super low price, but it is temporary. The same 4-pack normally goes for $300 at Best Buy and some other retailers, and you can find it going for as much as $400 at places like Newegg.The Netgear Orbi is a mesh networking system that uses an Orbi wireless router (one of the devices) and connects to the three satellites (the other 3 in this 4-pack). Those satellites all work with the router to create a network of seamless internet throughout your home. Since they each have such a large range, you can cover up to 6,000 square feet of your home in Wi-Fi. Plus, the four devices work together so you only ever need one network name. You won't even notice you've switched from one satellite to the next while moving through your home.If you're currently working from home, as many of us are, then you need fast, reliable Wi-Fi you can depend on. Use it for vid...

The 8 Pro looks impressive, but is it a true OnePlus phone?It's that time of year again — a new OnePlus phone is just on the horizon. I feel some level of excitement for just about every Android phone that's announced regardless of who makes it, but there's always an extra level of giddiness I feel when it comes time for OnePlus to take the stage.As you probably know by now, we're getting ready for the company to unveil the OnePlus 8, OnePlus 8 Pro, and possibly even a third device in the form of the OnePlus Z. OnePlus followed a similar release pattern this time last year with the OnePlus 7 and OnePlus 7 Pro, except we have reason to believe 2020 will be a bit different in the execution.Based on the current rumor mill that we've been following for months at this point, the OnePlus 8 will more or less be the true successor to the most recent OnePlus 7T, the OnePlus Z will target shoppers with especially tight budgets, and the OnePlus 8 Pro will pack in every feature and spec ...

Just like the Bullets Wireless 2, the upcoming Bullets Wireless Z will not be truly wireless.What you need to knowA new leak has revealed some of the key selling points of OnePlus' upcoming Bullets Wireless Z earphones.The earphones will apparently offer up to 20 hours of battery life and come with Warp Charging support. They are expected to be launched alongside the OnePlus 8 series phones on April 14.We got our first look at OnePlus' upcoming Bullets Wireless Z earphones last week, courtesy of Evan Blass. The images revealed that the earphones will not be truly wireless and are going to be available in at least four different color variants. Now, leaker Ishan Agarwal has shed some light on the key features of the upcoming Bullets Wireless Z earphones.Exclusive: #OnePlus is launching Bullets Wireless Z earphones very soon and here are its key features. Expect Warp Charging and 20 hours (!!) of Battery Life along with low latency and water resistance.For more features and...

For a limited time, B&H has the latest NVIDIA Shield Android TV streaming media player on sale for $129.99. This sale saves you $20 off its full cost and matches the best price we've seen for this 4K streaming device since its release. Shipping is free. You can also snag this deal at Best Buy and its eBay store.Our review gave the new 2019 NVIDIA Shield TV 4.5 stars out of 5 and a badge calling it The Best. Russell Holly said, "This simpler, more polished experience is fantastic on nearly every level, and doesn't deviate terribly from the things we already enjoyed about this system. And for its price, the new console checks a lot of boxes. If you want a dead simple streaming box that occasionally includes some fun gaming to it as well, this is without a doubt the box for you."The NVIDIA Shield TV uses an advanced Tegra X1+ processor for 25% faster performance than the previous NVIDIA Shield TV generations. It's the fastest Android TV streaming media player. Plus it comes with...

I've just come out of the other side of Final Fantasy VII Remake. I am blown away.As I write this, I have quite literally just finished Final Fantasy VII Remake, which has been in development at Square Enix for several years.Based on the legendary title of the same name from 1997, a potential Final Fantasy VII Remake had been rumored for well over a decade before finally breaking cover at E3 back in 2015. The fact that it's finally here, now, fully realized in 2020 feels almost like a dream.Final Fantasy VII's remake is virtually without precedent. While we have seen games remade over the years, arguably none were as beloved, as iconic, and as potentially large and complex as Final Fantasy VII, which was in its own right a sprawling, multi-faceted RPG of its heyday. I personally regard Final Fantasy VII on the PlayStation 1 as the game that got me into gaming, elevating it from a toy to something I saw more of a passion or an art form.It is with that in mind that I was immedi...

Closed cinemas be damned, Trolls: World Tour is available to rent on all major platforms in the UK right now.What you need to knowTrolls: World Tour is one of the highest-profile new movies to launch at home in place of a cinema release.Launch in the U.S. is scheduled for later this week.Available to rent for £15.99 from all major digital stores.The closure of cinemas around the world has resulted in a number of scheduled releases being delayed, but a number more have been moved onto a home release instead. One of the most high profile of these is Trolls: World Tour, and in the UK it's now available to rent for £15.99 "In an adventure that will take them well beyond what they've known before, Queen Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) discover that they are but one of six different Troll tribes scattered over six different lands and devoted to six different kinds of music: Funk, Country, Techno, Classical, Pop, and Rock. Their world is about to get...

What you need to knowGoogle's new Pixel Buds have been listed for pre-order by a U.S. retailer.They were unveiled at the Made by Google event last year but haven't been officially released yet. The updated Pixel Buds will cost $179 and feature 12mm dynamic drivers, water resistance, touch controls, as well as real-time translations. Google's second-generation Pixel Buds were briefly listed online for pre-order by B&H Photo in February this year, although the listing did not confirm any key features of the true wireless earbuds. The earbuds have now been listed for pre-order (via ChromeUnboxed) by Chicago-based Abt Electronics in Clearly White, Oh So Orange, Almost Black, and Quite Mint colors. Unsurprisingly, it is no longer possible to pre-order the new Pixel Buds, as the listing has already been taken down.In addition to confirming the $179 price tag of the true wireless earbuds, the product page on Abt Electronics also confirmed some of their key features. The seco...