Latest from Android Central

Even mighty Google isn't immune from the pandemic's effects.What you need to knowGoogle's parent company Alphabet just released its earnings report for the second quarter of 2020.The report showed total revenues of over $38 billion, but ad revenue was in decline.While the company beat its own projections, it still experienced a 2% decline in earnings compared to Q2 2019.Google's parent company Alphabet just released its quarterly earnings report for the second quarter of 2020. While the company managed to beat its own projections in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it experienced its first downward quarter year over year since it went public in nearly 16 years ago. Significantly, Google search and ad revenue was down year-over-year (down roughly 10%), although on the plus side, YouTube ad revenue was up slightly (up roughly 5%) and Google Cloud revenue continued to climb (up 43%).Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai said that the company has been working hard to weather t...

That's a beautiful display you've got on your Google Pixel 3. It'd be a shame if something were to… happen to it. That's why a screen protector is not just a good idea; it's an excellent investment. Protect your Pixel 3's screen from harm with these protectors.Trusted brandamFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector (3-Pack)Staff pickamFilm's three-pack of screen protectors are made of durable tempered glass and are designed to facilitate perfect touch feedback.$9 at Amazon$9 at Walmart$18 at NeweggFull coverageSupershieldz Full Screen Tempered Glass Protector (2-Pack)Supershieldz offers a two-pack of protectors that cover the entire screen of the Pixel 3, touting almost complete clarity and rounded corners.$12 at Amazon$8 at Walmart$18 at NeweggGo all outDome Glass Whitestone Tempered Glass Screen ProtectorOne of the most advanced screen protectors is the Whitestone protector from Dome Glass, utilizing UV lights for an ultra-secure installation.$15 a...

Somewhere between the posturing and partisan politics was a hint at broader antitrust issues.The CEOs of Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google testified before Congress to the House Judiciary Committee and any concerned citizen who cared to listen that their respective businesses were not using their size and scale for unfair advantages against the competition.This is but a small blip in a larger and longer antitrust investigation that has seen countless interviews with people from both sides of the issue along with millions of pages of evidence. Nothing said during the testimony was new or breaking and instead allowed some of the questions House members had and wished to get answers for in the public eye. These hearings put a face to the actions of the past year.This is the first thing to take away from the testimony. Both the tech CEOs and members of the House were there to put a face to the words and documents that are the meat of this investigation. That means there was ...

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$12 at Amazon$12 at WalmartCaseology'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$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$10 at AmazonESR packs tight air cushions into t...

Let's talk about one of 2020's most anticipated smartphones.Starting in 2016 with the release of the original Pixel, Google's lineup of Android phones has been marketed towards people looking to buy premium, high-end flagships. That notion has continued to hold true, but in May 2019, Google decided to try something a bit different with the release of the Pixel 3a.The Pixel 3a was the first mid-range Pixel phone to be released by the company, and it was an instant hit. Critics and consumers alike were immediately drawn to the 3a, thanks to its offering of great specs, solid build quality, and outstanding camera performance — all for less than $400.We were absolutely smitten with the Pixel 3a here at AC, and now, the rumor mill is buzzing with information regarding its successor. From specs, design, features, and more, here's everything we know about the Google Pixel 4a.The current mid-range champGoogle Pixel 3a$366 at Amazon$400 at Best Buy$360 at WalmartStil...

The best Samsung Galaxy S20 cases protect one of the most beautiful phones ever made, which is made of slippery metal and scratchable glass. If you're worried about scratching up that new investment, there's no time like the present to grab yourself one of the best Galaxy S20 cases that are available right now, from heavy duty to leather to thin and lightweight options.Top 5 Galaxy S20 cases, rankedCaseology Parallax: A fantastic all-around option with a textured back and plenty of color optionsRingke Fusion X: Protective yet lightweight, the perfect compromise for most peopleSamsung Leather Back Cover: Classic Samsung style with a perfect fit that accenturates the S20's designSpigen Liquid Air: Classic Spigen protection at an unbeatable priceArmadilloTek Vanguard: A heavy duty case for a rough-and-tumble lifestyleMesmerizing colorsCaseology ParallaxStaff pickFrom $14 at AmazonFrom $14 at WalmartThis hybrid honey of a case has a lot in common with the Spigen ...

A new title about to launch and another in the pipeline.What you need to knowPeople Can Fly is a developer with four studios.People Can Fly has previously developed games like Bulletstorm and Gears of War: Judgement.The developer has partnered with Square Enix on the upcoming Outriders.People Can Fly is opening a fifth studio and is beginning work on an untitled AAA next-gen game.While the developers at People Can Fly are hard at work on Outriders, today the team announced it has something else coming as well. In a press release, People Can Fly revealed it is working on an untitled AAA next-generation game.This new title will be coming to next-generation consoles, PC and streaming platforms. While exact platforms were not announced, it's safe to say this means the game will be playable on Xbox Series X and PS5, possibly even Project xCloud.People Can Fly currently operates four studios and People Can Fly New York will be taking the lead on this new project. Meanwhile, ...

More Bluetooth devices could benefit from simple pairing like this.What you need to knowFitbit devices like the Versa 2 are now able to automatically prompt your phone to complete the pairing process during initial setup.Tapping the prompt instantly directs you to download the Fitbit app and pairs your device over Bluetooth.This new interface mirrors that of Google's Pixel Buds true wireless earbuds.Fast Pair is one of Android's most convenient features when it comes to managing Bluetooth peripherals like headphones and smartwatches, but whether or not you're able to take advantage of it completely depends on the accessories you use. Luckily for fitness fanatics, that quick and easy pairing process seems to have made its way to Fitbit devices.Recently discovered by 9to5Google's Ben Schoon, devices such as the Fitbit Versa 2 are now able to automatically send a push notification to nearby phones, prompting users to download the Fitbit app from the Play Store and automating...

Everyone who works in an office setting, be it a corporate cubicle farm, a mom and pop shop, or working from a home office, knows that having a good office chair can make all the difference towards good posture and chronic pain. Unfortunately, not all of us have tons of cash lying around to invest in a $1,400 Herman Miller Aeron chair. We've compiled a list of some of the most affordable office chairs that you can find on Amazon, all $100 or less. Our top pick is the Neo Chair Marvel Avengers Headrest Office Chair. Not only does it look cool, but it also has great support and ventilation for a fair price.Best Overall Office Chair under $100: Neo Chair Marvel Avengers Headrest Office ChairMaybe it's just me, but when I have to sit down in a leather chair for hours on end, my end gets a little overheated. Too much information? Maybe, butt I'm sure I'm not alone. That's why I like office chairs that have some or all of their surface covered in a mesh material to allow for greater ...

A sharpshooting icon will join the roster.What you need to knowMarvel's Avengers is being developed by Crystal Dynamics.Today, during a new War Table presentation, the developers announced that Hawkeye is the first hero being added post-launch.Marvel's Avengers is scheduled to release on September 4, 2020.Today, a new Marvel's Avengers War Table gave players a better idea of what to expect down the line. Six heroes are included with the game at launch:Thor, Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Black Widow and Kamala Khan. The story follows Kamala as she helps to rebuild the Avengers to take on AIM and MODOK. After the campaign ends, something called the Avengers Initiative begins.This is Crystal Dynamic's post-launch support plan and it's kicking off with the addition of an iconic Avenger, Hawkeye. You can check out the trailer introducing Hawkeye below:Hawkeye has his own unique skills to unlock, customization items to equip and will come alongside the introduction of ...

The Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G is launching alongside four other Samsung devices on the 5th of August.What you need to knowSamsung's Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G has leaked in new high resolution renders.The images show off the foldable in Mystic Black and Mystic bronze colors.The renders also show off the new Infinity-O display and slimmed-down bezels.The Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G (or Galaxy Fold 2) is on its way. Samsung has teased it in a video, and new photos this morning showed the foldable in a live environment. If you do want to see it in hi-res render form, however, the folks over at MySmartPrice today shared new images of Samsung's upcoming device. As you'd expect, the foldable looks gorgeous, coming in the same Mystic Black and Mystic Bronze color options that Samsung is splashing on all its products this year. The all-screen display in the front will make it usable when folded, and the slimmer bezels will maximize that display even more.The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G is expecte...

At the House hearings into Big Tech, Jeff Bezos wants to tell us how Amazon is good for everyone's bottom line.Amazon is in a unique position during the current U.S. House of Representatives' antitrust hearings. Among the five tech giants testifying and trying to set a defense against any future actions over being a monopoly, Amazon is the only one who sells its own products alongside products from partners.We like to think about Amazon's other tech interests. Amazon produces and distributes movies and shows, its cloud infrastructure is one of the world's biggest, and the company's consumer goods like the Echo or a Fire TV device are in millions of homes across the world. But the main focus of any antitrust investigation into Amazon will be focused on how it treats its third-party sellers on Amazon.com.Jeff Bezos knows this, too, and it's why he opened his testimony to the House Judiciary by reminding us all how much money small companies make because of Amazon. Amazon is a...

The Galaxy S20 Ultra is quite the phone, huh? It has a massive 6.9-inch AMOLED display with a buttery smooth 120Hz refresh rate, Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 865 processor, and beastly rear camera setup with support for 100x zooming capabilities. The S20 Ultra packs a big punch, but without a screen protector, you risk ruining the experience.Great in every wayCaseology Film Screen Protector (2 Pack)Staff PickAlthough it does have "case" in its name, Caseology also has a fantastic screen protector available for the S20 Ultra. It's a film protector that's available in a bundle of two, and it's a pretty fantastic value. Caseology promises crystal clear transparency, bubble-free installation, and a scratch-resistant coating that can even heal itself if/when it becomes damaged. How cool is that?$11 at AmazonFeels like glassZAGG InvisibleShield Ultra Clear+ Screen ProtectorZAGG's InvisibleShield screen protector is technically film, but it sure doesn't feel like i...

Google believes in the practical side of augmented reality. For the last couple of years, it's been expanding its collection of 3D animals and objects on mobile devices, from land animals to underwater creatures to birds, house pets, and even dinosaurs. There's also a growing collection focusing on the human anatomy and the internal biology of our organs and cells, along with planets and other objects in our solar system. It's pretty amazing!Unfortunately, Google doesn't make it easy to see every animal or object that you can view in 3D. That's where we come in. We're going to show you every single 3D animal and object Google offers below, along with instructions on how to use them.Jump to:How to access 3D Animals and ObjectsLand AnimalsUnderwater & WetlandsBirdsHouse PetsDinosaursInsectsHow to use Object ViewHow to use AR ViewUnderstanding Object BlendingA lot of phones are supportedSound makes animals come to lifeThe full list of objectsSummaryHow do ...

Did you know that around half of all sales on Amazon are made by third-party sellers? If you would like a piece of this pie, the Ultimate Amazon FBA & Dropship Master Class Bundle provides a complete blueprint for just $39.99 — that is 96% off the total value.Fulfillment by Amazon allows anyone to sell online without the need to store and mail products. Through 40 hours of video lessons, this bundle shows you how to use the platform to build a business.The training covers sourcing and designing products, creating product listings, and marketing your store. You also learn how to make money selling on eBay and dropshipping on Shopify.You can use these techniques to build a great little side hustle or a full-time business from home. The knowledge comes from seasoned sellers, and the eight courses in this bundle have earned hundreds of positive reviews.Order now for just $39.99 to get the full line-up, worth $1,292. The Ultimate Amazon FBA & Dropship Master Class...

A OnePlus Nord may be coming to the U.S. sometime in the year, CEO Carl Pei says.Update, July 29 (02:00 pm ET): A new report pegs the U.S. variant of the OnePlus Nord as having a Snapdragon 690!What you need to knowThe OnePlus Nord has launched in the UK and India to rave reviews.A new report says it would be coming to the U.S. soon.If true, OnePlus will be selling it alongside the OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro as a budget option.The OnePlus Nord may be coming to the U.S. after all, according to a report from Wired. Tucked into the publication's Nord review, Wired noted CEO Carl Pei as saying a "Nord-branded phone (not necessarily the same as this) is set to land on U.S. shores later this year." If that's the case, the OnePlus Nord (or A OnePlus Nord at the least) may end up competing against other midrangers including the rumored Pixel 4a, Galaxy A71, and the Apple iPhone SE.The Nord launched this week to rave reviews, with praise being given for OnePlus managing to provide a fl...

CES 2021 will also be making a virtual return at the start of the year.What you need to knowMWC 2021 is set for early March with virtual elements incorporated.The 2020 show was canceled as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.A similar trade show, CES, will also take place virtually. MWC 2020 was one of the first trade shows to be canceled this year in a move that proved to be the forerunner to a swathe of cancelations across industries and countries. The event is now slated to run next year, but GSMA, the hosting body for MWC, doesn't plan to be caught flat-footed.Speaking to TechRadar about its plans for the upcoming year, a GSMA spokesperson said: We are working to ensure MWC 2021 is an unmissable event. We are constantly monitoring the situation, as we did with MWC 2020. This includes seeking expert health and safety advice. The situation is complex and new. We are learning all the time and working with Fira and our partners to take all actions that ensu...

Global consumption of Spotify has recovered to pre-COVID levels, except in Latin America.What you need to knowSpotify has today posted its latest financial results.It now has nearly 300M monthly active users. It also has 138M paying subscribers. Spotify has today posted its latest financial results, confirming that it now has nearly 300 million monthly active users and 138 million paying subscribers.In its latest Q2 results Spotify stated: Our business performed well in Q2 and continues to operate at a high level despite the continuing uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Excluding the impact of social charges related to the increase in our share price during Q2, all of our key metrics would have finished at or ahead of our expectations. Our liquidity position and Free Cash Flow remain strong, and we are encouraged with the underlying trends of the business.As mentioned, the results show Spotify now boasts 299 million monthly active users, a 29% increase ...

Best answer: The total amount of books an Amazon Kindle can hold depends on the amount of storage available, as well as the type and size of the files on the device. Most Kindle devices claim to be able to hold thousands of books. If you want the most storage available, however, you'll want to go for the Paperwhite or Oasis.Foot in the door: Amazon Kindle (From $90 at Amazon)Goldilocks device: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (From $130 at Amazon)Luxury e-reader: Amazon Kindle Oasis (From $250 at Amazon)So just how many books can an Amazon Kindle hold?The short answer is that an Amazon Kindle e-reader can probably hold more books than you'll be able to read —if not in a lifetime, then certainly in a long time. The current batch of Amazon Kindle e-readers come in various configurations and features but offer a minimum of 4GB of onboard storage (2.8GB of which can be used by the customer), and a maximum of 32GB of built-in storage. That may not sound like a lot when compared to a...

Why pay more if you don't need to?Fitness trackers are usually priced well below smartwatches because they tend to offer fewer features, and that's certainly the case here with the new Wyze Band. It doesn't have onboard GPS, nor music storage, nor the ability to respond to app notifications. You can't automatically trigger a workout or engage in step competitions with your buddies.Despite these shortcomings, the Wyze Band does do most of what you'd want or expect a fitness tracker to do, at less than half of the price of market-leading bands like the Fitbit Inspire HR, and less than a third the price of the new Fitbit Charge 4.Are there compromises here? Of course. But the whole package was compelling enough for this Fitbit fan to want to test drive the first wearable from Wyze to see if it might be worth my while. In the process, I learned a lot about what is possible at such an affordable price point, and what sacrifices have to be made to achieve that price.A solid first...

Virtual private networks are a common part of the digital world. Tens of millions of people across the world use them for protecting their privacy, securing their data, unblocking geo-restricted content and many other reasons.While it's fair to say that many of the best VPNs are geared towards individuals, they're also incredibly useful for businesses that are conscious about their security and privacy online. Business VPNs are an excellent way to secure all devices that are used throughout your organisation, protect employees as they use internet services and ultimately keep one step ahead of cyber criminals. Here are a few reasons why you need a business VPN.Avoid geo restrictionsOne of the major advantages of using a VPN is being able to access blocked content regardless of your location. So if you have offices in various regions across the world or have staff who regularly travel to countries where cybersecurity laws are far stricter, then you can easily avoid geo restric...

It's 2020, and flagship smartphones are all nearly a thousand dollars or more. But as high-end phones get more expensive, cheaper phones are getting better. We've researched and ranked all of the best cheap Android phones you can buy, and with our buyer's guide, you'll find the perfect phone for you.Best Overall: Moto G PowerYear after year, Motorola stands out as one of the best companies to watch for delivering good, cheap Android phones. 2020 saw the release of the Moto G Power, and if you're in the market for an affordable smartphone, it's hard to do much better than this.The Power name is a reference to the phone's best feature — battery life. With a 5,000 mAh battery crammed inside, you can easily get two or three days of use on a single charge. In a world where it's the norm to throw your phone on the charger every single night, being able to go a few days without worrying about that is a dream come true.Outside of the legendary battery life, the rest of the G Powe...

You're no doubt familiar with Ring for its line of video doorbells, but the company also offers some stellar smart alarm systems. If you're yet to upgrade your home security, today is your lucky day as all of the 2nd-gen Ring Alarm kits are on sale with 25% off for Amazon Prime members. Plus, select kits include a free Echo device like the Echo Dot or Echo Show 5 at no extra cost so you have a hands-free way to control the system.The Ring Alarm home security system utilizes the same app that the Ring Video Doorbell uses, allowing you to manage both easily from anywhere in the world using just your smartphone. Of course, the app is available for download on tablets and PCs too.If you already have other Ring products, they can all communicate with each other. The system even includes a 24-hour backup battery and 110-decibel siren. You can learn much more about this home security system in our review from 2018.If you're getting set up with Ring devices for the first time, the 5-pi...

The Anker PowerExtend Power Delivery USB-C power strip surge protector drops to $49.99 when you clip that $20 off on-page coupon. That's a huge discount from an on-page coupon, so you're saving a nice chunk of change here. The surge protector normally sells for $70, and it doesn't drop from that price directly. This is one of the best deals we've ever seen for the power strip.The super compact design still gives you six different ways to plug in. There are three 3-prong AC outlets on one side. The other side has two USB-A ports and a USB-C port. The AC outlets are placed in such a way that you can plug in even larger adapters without any of them getting in the way. The two USB-A ports have a power output of 15W. The USB-C port has Power Delivery and 45W power.The PowerIQ 3.0 technology on the USB-C port helps it detect what is being plugged in. It will then provide the best possible charge based on the device being used, which means giving you all the power it can give you if you...

Clarity in securityEufyCam 2 Pro$150 at Best BuyPros2K resolution videoOn-board people detectionLocal storage1-year battery lifeNo subscription feesWorks with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKitConsNon-removable battery2FA isn't available in all countriesThe EufyCam 2 Pro takes everything that was great about the EufyCam 2 and improves the resolution without significantly increasing the price. Despite the increased resolution, the EufyCam 2 Pro still works with the same Home Base Station as other EufyCams and is totally wireless.Slightly cheaper, same featuresEufyCam 2$140 at AmazonProsOn-board people detectionLocal storage1-year battery lifeNo subscription feesWorks with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKitConsOnly 1080p videoNon-removable battery2FA isn't available in all countriesThe EufyCam 2 has been a winning choice since it's 2019 debut, offering quality 1080p video, local storage, on-device people detection, and no ...

The feature will let you easily access the Assistant without having to press a button or perform a gesture.What you need to knowAn APK teardown of the latest Google app beta has revealed that the company is working on an "Assistant Chat Head."Tapping on the floating Assistant bubble will launch the Assistant panel from the bottom of the screen.Users will be able to drag the bubble to the bottom the screen to dismiss it, although it isn't clear how it can be launched.One of Android 11's most exciting new features is "Bubbles," which makes it possible for certain chat and messaging notifications to float on top of the screen for easy access. According to a report from 9to5Google, Google is testing a similar chat head bubble for the Assistant.An APK teardown of the Google app v11.21 has revealed two strings that describe the "Assistant Chat Head" feature. While one string describes how users can "Tap to talk to your Assistant," the other details how you can dismiss the Assis...

Chatting with the AC forums.In both 2019 and 2020, one of the biggest talking points for the mobile tech industry has been 5G. The next evolution of mobile internet access has the potential to change our world for the better, but the journey to get to that point is a long and bumpy one.This has been the year when 5G has become truly accessible to a large number of people, but even so, these early days are proving to be pretty mixed. For example, while sub-6 5G is almost as widespread as 4G LTE, the speed increase is pretty marginal compared to the much more powerful mmWave 5G.Some of our AC forum members recently got to talking about 5G, saying: Nostromo79 07-24-2020 11:39 AM “ I'm in between the New York City and Philly-metro area and I don't expect to see it available for any practical use for years. Perhaps Verizon will push to put mini-substations into homes before it's widely available. T...

Investors of parent company ByteDance are seeking to take over the video app.What you need to knowByteDance investors are trying to take over TikTok.It won't be cheap.According to reports, the video platform has been valued at a whopping $50 billion.Investors of TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, have reportedly valued the platform at a massive $50 billion amidst talks of a takeover.As reported by Reuters: Some investors of TikTok's parent company ByteDance seeking to take over the popular social media app are valuing it at about $50 billion, significantly more than peers such as Snap Inc (SNAP.N), according to people familiar with the matter.ByteDance is said to be "considering a range of options" for TikTok following pressure to give up control of the app: Beijing-based ByteDance is considering a range of options for TikTok amid pressure from the United States to relinquish control of the app, which allows users to create short videos with special effects an...

Chrome OS is light, speedy, and runs well on both low-end and high-end hardware, so you'd think that every manufacturer would have a Chrome OS tablet on the market right now, right? WRONG. Chrome OS is still greatly-improved with a keyboard, and while touch-optimization has made leaps and bounds in recent years, Chromebook tablets have still been few and far between. Before the Lenovo Chromebook Duet debuted this spring, they all had some fatal compromise in either features or price. Now, we have a great Chromebook tablet for most people and a few other options for those needing specific requirements.Best Overall: Lenovo Chromebook DuetThere may be other tablets out there running Chrome OS, but for the great majority, there's only one that should matter: the Lenovo Chromebook Duet. The Duet may not have been the first Chrome OS tablet, but it's the first that feels like it gets everything right. It comes with a keyboard but feels like a complete product even when used alone, so...

Woot has a number of refurbished Samsung smartphones on sale for today only. The promotion includes phones from the Galaxy S7 to newer devices like the Galaxy Note 9 and Galaxy S10. Prices start as low as $100. The devices are listed as "scratch & dent" condition which means there may be some cosmetic wear, though they have all been tested to ensure they are in full working order. A 90-day warranty is included with your purchase.Some of the more recent devices have sold out already, but the Samsung Galaxy S10 is still available in a couple of configurations. It's going for $419.99 GSM unlocked. If you prefer the Note line, you can grab the fully-unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 9 in blue for just $319.99. It's equipped with a 6.3-inch infinity display, dual 12MP rear camera setup, and 128GB capacity. It also comes with the super-powerful S Pen stylus. The Note 9 got a 4 star out of 5 rating in Android Central's review which commended its huge display and top-end specs at the time....

Aging computers need some love, too.There are so many options out there for PC Security that picking the best antivirus software often comes down to what's easiest or cheapest. With Windows Defender consistently demonstrating competency in testing, many Windows 10 users don't think about security all that much. Still, a company like Webroot adds quite a few extra features on top, making it worth considering additional protection.With Webroot Internet Security Complete, Webroot has created a lightweight, yet full-featured security platform. It includes not only antivirus, malware, and spyware scanning but real-time anti-phishing protection as well. It has its own firewall included with real-time protection. It even provides support for your mobile devices, including Android and iOS devices, and 25GB of cloud storage for backups.Lightweight SecurityWebroot Internet Security Complete ...

Discord is partnering with Krisp to mute the background of your voice chats.What you need to knowDiscord is rolling out Krisip.ai integration in its Android app.Once enabled, users will be able to make clearer voice calls with background noise suppression in tow.Krisp integration came first to Discord's desktop app. Discord wants to be a better app for your voice calls. The company already added background noise suppression to its desktop app, but now it is bringing it to mobile phones.In a partnership with Krisp.ai, Discord has created what's effectively a virtual microphone that screens out all non-human generated noise. There'll be no barking, no keyboard typing, no crying children, etc. audible on your calls all while this is enabled. You could say it's keeping your voice calls crisp and clear."Krisp uses machine-learning magic to filter out anything that isn't a human voice," Discord explained. "When connected to a voice channel, just enable the sound wave icon to ...

Amongst the many features that the best VPNs offer, one of the biggest selling points in marketing material is when a VPN offers unlimited bandwidth. That sounds appealing, right? Who can resist unlimited anything? In reality though, few of us will really need the promise of unlimited bandwidth.Like a lot of the decision-making process about what VPN is best for you, it comes down to how you're planning on using the VPN and why you've signed up to the service in the first place.Think about when you'll use the VPNWhy are you buying a VPN service? Is it solely for use when you're accessing public Wi-Fi and you want to make sure that your data is protected? In which case, you almost certainly don't need unlimited bandwidth as an essential add-on. If you only occasionally visit coffee shops or other places with public Wi-Fi to work then you almost certainly won't use much bandwidth each month. A limited bandwidth plan will be just fine, giving you plenty of data-based room for essent...

A surprise exclusive for the fastest-growing VR platform.What you need to knowStar Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge will debut at the end of 2020 exclusively on the Oculus Quest.You'll play as a droid repair technician who crashes on Batuu after a pirate attack.Players will be able to explore the entirety of Blackspire Outpost and the "wilds of Batuu".It's described as a "grand adventure" with blaster fights and plenty of distractions along the way.Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge marks the second time Oculus has secured an exclusive Star Wars game for its VR library, but this time around the Oculus Studios-developed title is debuting exclusively for the Oculus Quest. Described as a "grand adventure" that's set on the planet Batuu and takes place between "The Last Jedi" and "The Rise of Skywalker" movie timelines. Along with exploring the entirety of the Blackspire Outpost, which is featured at Disney World and Disneyland parks, players will also be able to embark...

Possible insight into games of the future.What you need to knowSony has filed a new patent on image reconstruction techniques.It's theoretically similar to NVIDIA's DLSS 2.0 system.This could end up being used in PS5 games.Sony has filed a patent for image reconstruction techniques that sound similar to NVIDIA's DLSS 2.0. This design could be used in PS5 games over the years to come. The patent description notes that it uses multiple images and machine learning to generate new data.Some existing PlayStation games, such as Horizon Zero Dawn and Death Stranding, use checkerboard rendering to present an overall cleaner image than a resolution lower than 4K could normally provide. A more advanced reconstruction system similar to DLSS 2.0 could provide even higher-quality images.Now, it's worth noting that this doesn't necessarily mean anything. Companies like Sony file patents on technology on the time and then never follow up on the concepts that have been patented. Still,...

With 90% of companies now reliant on cloud services, anyone who understands the technology has a big advantage in the job market. The Complete Microsoft Azure eBook & Video Course Bundle gives you a head start, with 15 hours of video tutorials and six ebooks for $29.99.The shift to cloud technology is happening fast, and Microsoft Azure is one of the most popular platforms. Even if you don't plan on becoming an engineer, learning about this service is a smart move.This learning bundle covers a range of related skills, from migration to DevOps. Along the way, you discover how to work with PowerShell, set up networks, manage access, and develop new apps with Node.JS.All of the content comes from Packt Publishing, a company that has created over 6,500 IT courses and books. You learn from expert instructors, and each course offers a certificate of completion.You would normally pay $703 for this training, but you can pick up the bundle today for just $29.99. The Complete...

A OnePlus Nord may be coming to the U.S. sometime in the year, CEO Carl Pei says.What you need to knowThe OnePlus Nord has launched in the UK and India to rave reviews.A new report says it would be coming to the U.S. soon.If true, OnePlus will be selling it alongside the OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro as a budget option.The OnePlus Nord may be coming to the U.S. after all, according to a report from Wired. Tucked into the publication's Nord review, Wired noted CEO Carl Pei as saying a "Nord-branded phone (not necessarily the same as this) is set to land on US shores later this year." If that's the case, the OnePlus Nord (or A OnePlus Nord at the least) may end up competing against other midrangers including the rumored Pixel 4a, Galaxy A71, and the Apple iPhone SE.The Nord launched this week to rave reviews, with praise being given for OnePlus managing to provide a flagship-lite experience without dipping the specs so low that the phone felt cheap.Writing for Android Central, revi...

Chances are that you're using the built-in webcam from your laptop, or you have a desktop that doesn't have a webcam at all. But with more and more folks working from home, you'll end up needing to join in a video conference call at some point, and you don't want to end up looking like a potato. With the Logitech Brio 4K, there's no chance of that happening and you get more added features than you'll know what to do with. However, you'll want to take advantage of the 4K recording and Windows Hello support.Best Overall: Logitech Brio 4KThose looking for the mac-daddy of webcams can't look past the Logitech Brio 4K. Not only do you get 4K HDR video recording, but this webcam is also certified to work with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. However, Windows users get the added benefit of Windows Hello support.In addition to recording video at either 4K or 1080p, the Brio includes a 5X digital zoom and "RightLight" so that you never look awkward on camera. While 4K video is limited to...

It's Microsoft madness as Windows Central's resident Xbox expert, Jez Corden, joins Carli and Rebecca to talk about the lineup of games announced at the July 2020 Xbox Series X showcase.Hosted by: Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:LINKS:The X-Play Twitter account just teased a possible relaunch of the G4TV gaming channel | Windows CentralEvery announcement from the Xbox Series X July 2020 event | Windows CentralHalo Infinite demo showcased early build, Microsoft says visuals will 'get better and better' | Windows CentralMicrosoft's Xbox July Showcase review: Finally, a roadmap | Windows CentralMicrosoft's Xbox Series X showcase emphasized the value of Xbox Game Pass, and Sony needs an answer on PS5 | Android Central...

Soon you'll be able to stream games from anywhere with a good connection.What you need to knowGoogle Stadia is gaining a new experimental feature on July 28th.The feature allows you to stream games over mobile data.Google says this isn't meant to be stable, and will work over 4G or 5G networks. Many users have questioned what it means for Stadia to be a living service with a constant stream of updates, and today we're getting a great example of what that means. Starting today, the Android version of the Stadia app will include an experimental feature which allows you to stream over 4G or 5G networks.From the Google Stadia Blog: If you'd like to be part of this Experiment, you can opt in to cellular play by opening the Stadia app on an Android phone, clicking on your avatar in the top right corner, selecting Experiments, and then choosing Use Mobile Data. We'll have more opt-in programs in the future as we bring even more helpful features to Stadia.The app update is...

Spotify expands Group Sessions to cover more use cases.What you need to knowSpotify has updated Group Sessions to allow for remote sharing.Now, a Premium subscriber can enable a group session as easily as sharing a link. Group Sessions is still in beta, but Spotify promises an evolving experience.Spotify earlier in the year announced Group Sessions, a new feature for socially distanced listening. It allowed users to scan a QR code to access a shared queue between a small group who would be in the same area (but spaced out). It's now expanding how the feature works to eliminate distance. You could be six feet apart or million miles away, but a shareable link will unite your queues regardless. You'll be able to share playlists or podcasts, and it'll make throwing a virtual happy hour that much easier."Groups of two to five people can use this feature at once by sharing a "join" link via messaging apps or social media with each other," Spotify says. The QR code will presuma...

Microsoft Family Safety could be a powerful tool for parents with kids learning from home.What you need to knowThe Microsoft Family Safety app is now available for everyone.The app gives parents control over screen time, content filters, and provides an activity report for kids.The app is available now for both Android and iOS devices.The Microsoft Family Safety app is officially out of preview starting today. Family Safety is geared towards parents, allowing them to set content restrictions, limit screen time, and view an activity log of what their kids are doing online. Microsoft initially launched the app in May as a preview, but now anyone can try it."Microsoft Family Safety helps you to facilitate a dialogue with your kids about the time they are spending on their devices and type of content they are viewing," Microsoft said during the May launch of the preview. "The app provides transparency on where everyone is spending time online and allows you to create flexible...

The Netgear Nighthawk AX6 Wi-Fi 6 router has dropped to $239.99 on Amazon. This router normally sells for $300, and it has never varied from that price at Amazon before. Today's drop is not only a new low but the first direct discount we've seen. You'll find the same router is still going for $300 or so at other retailers like Best Buy.Wi-Fi 6 is the newest wireless protocol, and if you have a router that's not using it, you should. You might pay a little more but the jump in wireless speeds is well worth it. We even include Netgear's router in our roundup of the best Wi-Fi 6 routers because of its ability to connect a large number of devices without ever slowing down.The Nighthawk is large enough and powerful enough to cover a medium-to-large size home with wireless. It can blanket up to 2,000 square feet in beautiful speedy Wi-Fi. The AX5400 speeds include dual-band Wi-Fi at 600 and 4,800 Mbps. Plus, it has six simultaneous streams for a larger capacity and the capabilitity to ...

This could usher in a new era of cross-platform VR development.What you need to knowOculus is now accepting OpenXR-developed titles on the Oculus Rift and Oculus Quest stores.Eye tracking and hand tracking are now an official part of the OpenXR standard, enabling cross-platform development with these features.Minecraft's RenderDragon engine now uses OpenXR for the development of Minecraft VR.Since its debut last Summer, the OpenXR platform has been pivoting itself as the way forward for developers looking to create games and applications for more than just one VR headset. This week has brought about a significant step in the right direction for the industry, as a whole, and it means a massive change could be on the horizon for developers and VR gamers, alike. Kicking off the news is the inclusion of OpenXR-developed games and apps on the Oculus Rift and Oculus Quest stores. This is a huge deal because it means that developers no longer have to exclusively develop a separate...

It isn't a huge upgrade over the RedMagic 5G launched earlier this year.What you need to knowZTE's Nubia sub-brand has launched a new flagship gaming smartphone.The new Nubia RedMagic 5S is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 865 chipset and has a 6.65-inch 144Hz AMOLED display.It is slated to go on sale in China from August 1 for a starting price of 3,799 yuan ($542). In March this year, ZTE's Nubia sub-brand launched the RedMagic 5G, the world's first phone to come equipped with a 144Hz display. Nubia today launched a "new" gaming flagship with a few minor upgrades to take on the ASUS ROG Phone 3 and the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel.The new Nubia RedMagic 5S sports a 6.65-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a fast 144Hz refresh rate and a 240Hz touch sampling rate. Under the hood is a Snapdragon 865 chipset, which has been paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. While Nubia has strangely decided not to use the newer Snapdragon 865+ chipset, the gaming phone ...

Amazon is giving its customers the perfect excuse to sign up for its Music Unlimited streaming service. Right now, you can get the newest Echo Dot with Clock for only $9.99 when you sign up for two months of Music Unlimited. That means you'll get two months of ad-free music streaming and the smart speaker for just $25.97 total with Amazon Prime, or just a few bucks more if you don't have a Prime subscription.Amazon Music Unlimited normally costs $7.99 a month for Prime members or $9.99 without Prime, so this is something of a no-brainer deal considering the Echo Dot with Clock sells for $60 on its own. Even when on sale it rarely drops below $40. The deal is only for new users of Amazon Music Unlimited, however.Echo Dot is Amazon's best overall smart speaker option and one of the easiest ways to start up a smart home. Control compatible smart home devices like Philips Hue bulbs or Hive thermostats, and so much more. Hear a cringeworthy knock-knock joke or fun fact. Set timers so ...

Showing its Mpow(er)Mpow H19 IPO$45 at AmazonProsExcellent noise cancelation for the priceLightweightQuick chargingBluetooth 5.0 connectivityConsThe headband doesn't have much adjustmentEarpads a bit stiffOnly available in blackThe Mpow H19 IPO have a nice design and even better features inside like Bluetooth 5.0 and quick charging. Add in solid noise cancelation as well as great battery life and you have a great set of headphones at an affordable price.The stalwartCOWIN E7From $60 at AmazonProsNFC pairing optionGood battery lifeQuality noise cancellationMultiple color choicesConsDated designLong charge timesButtons feel a bit cheapHeavyThe Cowin E7 have been one of the best headphones in this price point for years, and while these are still a good choice, their age is starting to show. The design is getting a bit long in the tooth, and there are better technologies that could be implemented.Mpow and Cowin both make som...

LG's V35 ThinQ smartphone is now on sale unlocked for just $299.99 at Amazon. This Prime-exclusive phone is only available to be purchased by Amazon Prime members, but if you're not a member already, signing up for a free 30-day trial will make your account instantly eligible.Today's deal saves you around $100 off what it's been selling for the last couple of weeks, though before that it was going for its full retail price of $900 since the holodiays. Considering it's never dropped this low before until now, this isn't a deal you want to pass up if you're in the market for a new phone.This unlocked smartphone is called a Prime-exclusive because it comes with a selection of pre-installed Amazon apps, most of which are pretty helpful like the Amazon Widget, Amazon Shopping, and Amazon Alexa. You can easily remove any apps you don't want, too. This device is also special because it has hands-free Amazon Alexa functionality built-in, allowing you to ask Alexa questions and for help s...

Panelists say they have seen "very specific language from top-level executives about that"What you need to knowCEOs of four tech giants will testify at an antitrust probe, Wednesday.One line of investigation will be "copy-acquire-kill" strategies.Panelists say they have "very specific language from top-level executives" about the practice. An antitrust probe Wednesday featuring testimony from Tim Cook, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Sundar Pichai will likely include a focus on "copy-acquire-kill" strategies allegedly employed by the companies.According to The Washington Post: Some of the evidence lawmakers have amassed is set to be furnished publicly for the first time Wednesday. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), one of the panel members who will question the companies, said a few of the documents evince a "copy-acquire-kill" strategy on the part of tech companies to buy or suppress potential rivals. The Democratic lawmaker said the committee has seen some "very speci...

The RAZR will have a 6.2-inch main display, just like the first-gen model.What you need to knowThe first images of the Motorola RAZR successor have surfaced.They show a slightly tweaked design with a smaller chin and thinner bezels. Motorola is rumored to announce the RAZR 5G sometime in the fourth quarter of the year.Last week, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Flip 5G, a more impressive version of its foldable flip phone with the latest Snapdragon 865+ chipset and support for sub-6GHz 5G networks. Motorola is also rumored to launch a 5G-enabled successor to the RAZR this year, featuring a more powerful chipset and upgraded cameras. The first images showing the upcoming foldable phone have now been posted by Evan Blass on his Patreon page.The leaked images suggest the RAZR 2 will have a fairly similar design to the first-gen model. If rumors are to be believed, the RAZR 2 will have an identical 6.2-inch main display as its predecessor. Thanks to the significantly smaller c...