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Let's chat with the AC forums.Two of the most notable companies in the Android space are Samsung and OnePlus. Both regularly offer some of the best handsets the market has to offer, including the Galaxy S20, OnePlus 8, and more.Samsung and OnePlus phones aim to deliver a top-notch Android experience through and through, but both brands go about doing this very differently.Some of our AC forum members recently got to talking about how OnePlus and Samsung compare, saying: Cletis169_1 06-22-2020 10:45 PM “ I have both. Used 1+ 8 Pro for a month and switched back to my note 10+ after issues with the phone app dropping calls and screen edge not recognizing touch issues. I did get better service signal with the 1+ and 5G but I can't deal with other issues. Now waiting for the Note 20 Ultra with 5G. Reply Henaway 06-25-2020 12:24 AM ...

Snap onRazer Kishi controller$80 at RazerProsComfortable Switch-style layoutEasily attachable to most Android phonesPass-through chargingUSB-CConsNot compatible with PC or tabletsExpensiveWobble with smaller phonesThe Razer Kishi is a dedicated Android controller that securely connects to almost any Android phone. It eliminates Bluetooth input lag and the need for a phone holder or wireless dongle, and is portable enough to carry anywhere easily.Switch things upSteelSeries Stratus Duo$50 at AmazonProsCompatible with Android and PCComfortable for longer play sessionsRechargable batteriesConsPhone grip accessory sold separatelyCharges via Micro-USBThe SteelSeries Stratus Duo is a traditionally shaped Bluetooth / Wi-Fi controller that works with all Android phones as well as your PC. It has near-instant connectivity, no input lag, and rechargable batteries, but you'll need to pay separately for the phone accessory.Razer and S...

The Galaxy S20 Fan Edition is expected to be a successor to the Galaxy S10 Lite, which was unveiled late last year.What you need to knowSamsung may launch a more affordable version of the Galaxy S20 in October this yearThe phone is rumored to be called the Galaxy S20 Fan Edition/Pen Edition.Its specs sheet remains a complete mystery at this point.A report published earlier this month had claimed Samsung could soon launch a "Lite" version of the Galaxy S20, which is apparently being referred to as the Galaxy S20 Fan Edition within the company. A new report from ETNews now claims the phone could be launched in October this year. Weirdly, however, the report refers to the phone as the Galaxy S20 "Pen Edition," instead of Fan Edition.Unlike the Galaxy S10 Lite, which doesn't support 5G, the upcoming Galaxy S20 Fan Edition is rumored to be available in both 4G and 5G-enabled variants. In the U.S., however, Samsung will apparently launch just the 5G-enabled variant of the phone...

Best answer: Sony has revealed a full slate of accessories to go along with its next-generation console, including a new controller, headset, controller stand, and media remote.Get ready for games: PlayStation Store Gift Card (From $10 at Amazon)What accessories are launching with the PS5?During its PS5 The Future of Gaming showcase, Sony unveiled the PS5 and several high-profile games such as Horizon Forbidden West and a Demon's Souls remake. The company didn't stop there, however, showing off a full slate of accessories. Here's the full list:DualSense controller - The new controller features haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.PULSE 3D wireless headset – Offers 3D audio support and dual noise-cancelling microphonesHD Camera – Features dual 1080p cameras for gamers to broadcast themselves without needing a separate cameraMedia Remote – A remote control with built-in microphone to navigate movies and streaming services with easeDualSense Charging Station – So...

The Galaxy Watch 3 will have a similar design to its predecessor.What you need to knowA press render of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch 3 has surfaced online.The render shows off the 45mm version of the upcoming watch, with a stainless steel casing and a leather band.It also reaffirms the presence of a physical rotating bezel and two buttons on the right side.We got our first look at Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch 3 in the flesh last week, thanks to South Korea's NRRA certification body. The first press render of the smartwatch has now surfaced, courtesy of the inimitable Evan Blass.The press render, which shows the 45mm version of the Galaxy Watch 3, seems to confirm that the upcoming watch will indeed look a lot like the original Galaxy Watch. Like the Galaxy Watch, Samsung's next smartwatch will come with what appears to be a physical rotating bezel and two buttons on the side. The casing also confirms the Galaxy Watch 3 will have built-in GPS, MIL-STD-810G compliance...

For everything that Chromebooks have going for them, every now and then an app can hang up and cause some frustration. Thankfully, there's a relatively simple way to find out which app or task is the culprit behind the slowdown. Let's get into the steps you can take to get your Chromebook back smoothly humming along.How to force quit a task on a ChromebookIf Chrome isn't already open, open Chrome.Click on the menu button, the three dots in the upper right-hand corner.Put your cursor on more tools.Select task manager.The shortcut to get to this menu is pressing the Search and Esc keys at the same time.From here you can see the list of running processes, and generally, the one taking up the most memory or CPU is the problem. Select that app or task.Click on end process to shut the problem down.Now you can reopen the app that was causing the issues. If it's still acting up, you may need to uninstall then reinstall it. Hopefully, the need to go into the task manager ...

Depeche Mode's never-before-seen live concert film, LiVE SPiRiTS, is coming to YouTube for a one-night-only livestream that fans won't want to miss. Recorded at The Waldbühne in Berlin during July 2018, LiVE SPiRiTS offers the full performance to fans which was previously only seen in snippets through the SPiRiTS IN THE FOREST documentary.Packed with 21 songs and running over two hours long, the concert is a must-see for Depeche Mode listeners as the band plays tracks not only from its latest album Spirit but also songs from previous albums like Ultra, Playing The Angel, and Music For The Masses.Depeche Mode's LiVE SPiRiTS concert: When and whereLiVE SPiRiTS will be streamed live via LiveNation's YouTube channel on Thursday, June 25 at 3 p.m. ET / Noon PT, which means you'll be able to catch the event on a number of devices using the YouTube app. Once the livestream is over, while you won't be able to watch the show for free again, you can purchase the Spirits In The Forest ...

Sometimes you just need a quick and affordable way to tune out the world and jam to your own music. Right now, the TaoTronics TT-BH090 Bluetooth headphones are down to $39.99 on Amazon when you clip the on-page coupon and use the code AEDZL2QY during checkout. The two discounts stack or a solid $19 savings and a new record-low price for these ANC headphones.These are the sort of headphones you can keep with you and take anywhere. Whip them out anytime you have a few minutes to listen to music and don't want to be disturbed (like during the commute to work). They are designed to be portable, too. They have an adjustable headband with earcups that can be rotated up to 90 degrees. They come with a carrying case that your headphones fold nicely into as well.The TT-BH090 headphones include Bluetooth 5.0. That's one of the more advanced iterations of Bluetooth technology, so you'll have way fewer latency issues. With a steady, uninterrupted connection you can get high-quality audio any...

Both the Realme X3 and X3 SuperZoom feature 120Hz displays and are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 855+ chipset.What you need to knowRealme today launched its X3 series phones and Buds Q true wireless earbuds in India.The Realme X3 Superzoom will be going on sale in the country from June 30 for a starting price of ₹27,999 ($370).Realme's Buds Q true wireless earbuds will be available starting July 1 for ₹1,999 ($26).Realme today introduced two new X-series phones in India, along with a pair of true wireless earbuds.The Realme X3 SuperZoom, which was launched in Europe last month, comes with a 6.6-inch FHD+ display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 855+ chipset, paired with up to 12GB LPDDR4x RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. In the camera department, Realme X3 SuperZoom has a quad-camera setup at the rear with a 64MP main camera, an 8MP periscope camera with 5x optical zoom and 60x hybrid zoom, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 2...

OnePlus' upcoming TVs have an ultra-thin design with slim bezels.OnePlus made its foray in the TV category last year with the OnePlus TV Q1 and Q1 Pro, with both models aimed at the premium category in India. This time around, OnePlus is shifting focus to the affordable segment with its upcoming TVs. The company already revealed that its new TVs will be starting for under ₹20,000 ($265), which is less than a third of the cost of the OnePlus TV Q1.OnePlus is essentially opening up its TVs to a wider audience, so ahead of the the launch, I talked to OnePlus founder and CEO Pete Lau to get a better sense of what's on the horizon. Lau is heavily invested in the design of all OnePlus products, and he believes that design is a key point of differentiation for the company.Design is a subject Lau brings up often; I distinctly remember a conversation I had with him two years ago in Shenzhen where he talked about how his team went through dozens of red hues before settling on the color...

Best answer: ExpressVPN is quite explicit in stating that the company does not collect or keep any logs of your activity, browsing history, data content, or DNS queries. Most companies bury this in the Privacy Policy, but ExpressVPN offers up the information as the second sentence so it's easy to find.Encrypt your connection: ExpressVPN ($6.67 per month at ExpressVPN)ExpressVPN, which happens to be our best VPN top pick, is very clear about its logging and that states that it doesn't log your data. That's a very top-line answer to the question, but one that's immediately reassuring. Since these policies are often far too long to actually read, we've done that for you.The result is that we've got a clear picture of what data is and isn't recorded by VPNs, in this case ExpressVPN specifically. First, a little background so we can explain this clearly.A VPN uses a proxy server to give you an IP address which makes you appear to be somewhere and someone else. These servers are ...

The adage "you get what you pay for" definitely holds for certain categories of products, like shoes, mattresses, and yes, office chairs. The simple fact is, the more you have available to spend (up to a point), the better chair you can buy. The range of options for chairs under $200 is quite diverse and includes styles and features for just about any taste and preference. Here are some of our favorites in this next tier of office furniture to perfectly complement any office, whether you're with your coworkers or working from home.The BossAmazonBasics High-Back Leather Executive ChairStaff PickThis chair grabs our top spot because it is an excellent balance of style, comfort, and affordability. It has a padded seat and back and comes in black, brown, and white to go with virtually any office decor.$138 at AmazonBest for Petite PatootiesOSP Home Furnishings Milo Office ChairIf you're looking for something a bit more dainty for a smaller frame, this Milo offic...

In support of the state of Washington and its citizens, the All In WA: A Concert for COVID-19 Relief by Presenting Sponsor Amazon virtual event takes place this week to raise relief funds for the community and those in need. The organizers, All In Washington, will be offering assistance for the state's hardships in a few different ways, from providing food donations and housing assistance to small business support and even health services for essential workers, all helped along by donations made leading up to and during the concert.All In WA: A Concert for COVID-19 Relief is set to feature a number of performances and appearances from homegrown talent and celebrities, including Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews, Macklemore, Brandi Carlile, Sir Mix-a-Lot, Ciara, Joel McHale, and more. Amazon's founder and CEO Jeff Bezos announced he will match individual donations personally, up to a total of $25 million.All In WA: When and whereThe All In WA: A Concert for COVID-19 Relief virtual conc...

The next generation of Wi-Fi, known as Wi-Fi 6, is making its way to a lot of new phones and wireless devices. This new tech brings with it the fastest speeds, more consistent coverage, and support for more devices. Wi-Fi 6 has finally made its way to the cheaper routers that most people are interested in without losing the best features that come with it. The best overall cheap Wi-Fi 6 router is the Asus RT-AX56U thanks to its great price and advanced features, including easy mesh expansion and AX1800 speeds.Best Overall: Asus RT-AX56UThe RT-AX56U manages to find a balance of features that are an excellent fit for the majority of homes without packing in unnecessary speed or features. While it's not the cheapest Wi-Fi 6 router around, its increased speed, as well as access to additional features, makes it a great buy. A critical consideration of Wi-Fi speed is that it makes up ground over AX1500 routers on the 2.4GHz band. This router can deliver speeds up to 574Mbps at 2.4GHz...

You can save up to $10 per month by sticking with the carrier for more than nine months.What you need to knowVerizon has updated the pricing of its prepaid plans to reward users' loyalty.Each of the plans now offers a cumulative $5 discount after three and nine months, respectively.You can also save an additional $5 by using AutoPay.Verizon today announced some major new discounts for users of its prepaid plans that reward their loyalty for staying with the carrier. All three of the prepaid plans now come with the option to save as much as $10 per month simply by sticking with the carrier for a long period of time.Monthly costs for the plans will now go down by $5 after three months of use, while users can enjoy an additional $5 discount after nine months. With the addition of the $5 discount from AutoPay, that could represent a total $15 of savings after nine months. The breakdowns for each of the three plans with the new discounts are shown below (do note that the price...

While the exact size is still unknown, Sony's PlayStation 5 looks to be a pretty big console, no matter how you slice it. This might present itself as a problem for some, especially when it comes to adding the new console into your entertainment center. Thankfully, when it comes to solutions, you have plenty of options to make your PS5 the perfect centerpiece to your media center.Our top picksSign up for notifications: PS5 (See at Best Buy)Connect from anywhere: iVanky 10ft HDMI Cable ($15 at Amazon)A large-enough center: Furinno Jaya Large Entertainment Center ($76 at Amazon)Need the right 4K TV: TCL 65" Class 6-Series 4K UHD TV ($750 at Amazon)The GuideSince you likely already have a media center, make sure that there's some open space available either on top or on an open shelf, since the PS5 is going to take up quite a bit of space once it's finally in your home. If you don't have any room on your media center, the option to wall mount your PS5 will also likely be av...

La Liga continues tonight as Real Madrid host RCD Mallorca at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano. Don't miss a kick by following our Real Madrid vs Mallorca live stream guide below.Since the return of La Liga football, Real Madrid and Mallorca have fared differently. Los Blancos have taken all nine available points in their three games since the unscheduled league break slingshotting them to the top of La Liga. On the other hand, RCD Mallorca have recorded two defeats and one draw so far in June and now sit in 18th place, three points adrift of safety.Zinedine Zidane's men are determined to lift the La Liga trophy, having not won the league since 2017. Rivals Barcelona dropping points at Sevilla in their last outing let Real Madrid take the driving seat in this year's La Liga title race. Thanks to Madrid's better head-to-head record, they hold 1st for now. Any slip-ups, however, would open the door for Barça to reclaim top spot.Los Bermellones almost held out for a 1-0 victory ag...

Car repair can be costly (duh!) and that Check Engine light could mean you have a myriad of issues with your car. However, it could also be a simple fix that you could do yourself — so why take it to your dealer or mechanic without knowing the problem first? Some places will charge you an arm and a leg (or more!) just for the scan. Grab a home ODB2 scanner, download an app, and become your own second opinion.Best reviewedBAFX Products Bluetooth scannerStaff pickThe BAFX Products 34t5 claims to work on all vehicles in the U.S. from 1996 or later — all you need is a third-party app and an Android phone or tablet.$23 at AmazonBest valuePanlong Bluetooth OBD2 car readerPanlong's OBD II scanner works with most post-1996 vehicles (sans some hybrids), and lets you read and clear trouble codes with real-time data readings.$12 at AmazonProfessional gradeScanTool OBDLink LXThe OBDLink LX is a pro-grade reader that features its own app, which allows you to scan...

Liverpool and Crystal Palace face off tonight in their second competitive fixture in the Premier League's 'Project Restart'. Don't miss a kick by following our Liverpool vs Crystal Palace live stream guide below.Jurgen Klopp's side could get one step closer to lifting the Premier League trophy with a victory over visitors Palace. A win tonight and over Man City next week would secure Liverpool's first title in 30 years.The Reds were held to a 0-0 draw in their return to competitive football in the Merseyside derby at Everton. That result means Liverpool have only taken four points from their last three Premier League games. That being said, they currently sit 23 points clear at the top of the table and only need five more points from their remaining eight games to be crowned champions.Crystal Palace won their first game back following the unscheduled season break, defeating Bournemouth 2-0. The Eagles have won their last four Premier League games and currently sit in ninth plac...

As the team assembles, we get a deeper dive into how they all play.What you need to knowCrystal Dynamics shared a new War Table showcase for Marvel's Avengers today.The presentation focused on the story and gameplay, following the team trying to rebuild and take on MODOK.Marvel's Avengers is set to release on September 4, 2020.Marvel's Avengers is being developed by Crystal Dynamics, who have shared a new showcase detailing more of the story and gameplay that players can expect. This War Table dives into the different ways heroes can be customized as the team is gathered to take on MODOK. You can check out the full War Table presentation below.Marvel's Avengers is scheduled to arrive on September 4, 2020. When it arrives, it'll be available on Xbox One, PC and PS4, with Xbox Series X and PS5 versions becoming available when the two next-generation consoles release. When they release, players who have already bought the game will get a free upgrade, so buying a second ...

These two things help protect your personal information from developers who want too much of it.Android vs. iOS 14iOS 14 stole these 8 useful features from AndroidiOS 14 took Android's home screenApple could do widgets better than AndroidiPhone apps on Mac could be good for Chrome OSiOS 14 is coming to iPhones released in 2015Google+Fitbit = better than Apple Watch?7 things Wear OS should steal from watchOS Apple showed off iOS 14 during its WWDC online event, and most of the focus was on the new look of the operating system. It's great that iPhone users will get a chance to have some of the features Android users have loved for years, but there were also some things that didn't get as much fanfare but are pretty important. Most developers aren't trying to steal your information.Two of those things have to do with how you can protect your personal data from apps. Now I think that most app developers, whether they build for iOS or Android or both, are trying t...

If you've worked in an office at any point during the past three decades, chances are you've at least dabbled with Microsoft Excel—that ubiquitous number-crunching platform that's used by a long list of companies in countless industries.But if you want to be truly successful and land the best positions your field has to offer in an increasingly data-driven world, you need to know how to do more than just build the occasional spreadsheet or chart.The 2020 Master Microsoft Excel & Power BI Certification Bundle will teach you how to take advantage of Excel's more advanced and useful analytical tools and commands so you can climb that career ladder, and it's on sale for over 95% off at just $34.99 today.Equally well-suited for Excel novices and more experienced users hoping to expand their skill set, this 9-course training bundle will walk you through both the fundamentals and more advanced elements of data plotting, auto calculation, macros, visualization methods, and more.Th...

Competition makes for better products, and the Android ecosystem is more competitive than ever. The best Android phone right now is the OnePlus 8 Pro, bringing a great combination of hardware quality, specs, display, cameras, and software to a palatable price for a high-end phone. If you want a new Android phone at any price range, we've done the research to separate the great from the good, and the good from the bad. This list will help you make your next purchase easier.Best Overall: OnePlus 8 ProThe OnePlus 8 Pro is impressive and well-designed as any high-end smartphone can be. If you know anything about OnePlus phones, you'll be happy to know it doesn't upend the traditional OnePlus formula. Instead, it extends it to its logical place in the world of 2020 flagships with more features and a higher price.The hardware goes toe-to-toe with any phone out there, and it's punctuated by the best display OnePlus has ever used. It's bright, colorful and has a 120Hz refresh rate. I...

Google's new defaults err on the side of privacy.What you need to knowGoogle will automatically delete web and app activity for new users from today.Older users will receive a prompt, directing them to change their settings if they want to.The company will also put incognito mode just a tap away on all its apps, starting with iOS first. Google is launching a bunch of privacy-first initiatives across its line of software products, CEO Sundar Pichai announced today. The company had taken to being more privacy-conscious after being criticized by both publications and governments over its lax treatment of user data, and today's updates hand more control over to the user.Last year, Google began allowing its customers to delete personal data with the tap of a button from a dedicated hub on both mobile and web. It also allowed them to automate it so that Google would flush your account data after either 3 or 18 months. From today, Google's automatic data deletion settings will ...

The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro smart deadbolt is down to $149.99 through Woot. This is $30 off Amazon's current price and $20 better than Home Depot where it's currently also on sale. The Woot price is the best deal around and matches a price we've seen only twice before.You do have a choice with the Woot purchase. You can go with or without the Wi-Fi Bridge. If you choose without, the price is only $130. But I wouldn't recommend that. Part of the fun of a smart lock is being able to use your smartphone to control and monitor it from anywhere. You will lose a lot of functionality without that bridge.Woot is a daily deal site, so it's safe to say this deal won't last long. You'll also have to pay a mandatory shipping fee unless you use your Amazon Prime account to avoid it.The U-Bolt Pro isn't your ordinary new deadbolt. It has a lot of smart functions and even some unique features not available in other smart locks like the August series. For example, you can use the keypad on the loc...

We've used some of the best DIY home security systems you can buy. And we'll help you make the right choice between these two powerhouses.Ring Alarm (2nd Gen)Modular security$200 at AmazonProsCheaper than the Nest system.Includes all the pieces you need to get going.No long-term commitments or cancellation fees.With Ring Protect Plus plan, you can get 24/7 monitoring.ConsIncludes single-purpose sensors compared to the Nest system.Doesn't play well with Google Assistant.If you have a smaller home — or just don't want to spend too much on your first security system — the Ring Alarm system may be for you. It is scaleable, connects with all the pieces you need to get started, and works wonderfully with Amazon's Alexa smart assistant, Echo speakers, and Fire TV and tablet devices.Nest SecureInnovative integration$250 at Best BuyProsIntegrates smoothly with other Nest and Google products.Includes more versatile sensors in the box.Included Nest T...

If you're running an Android phone or tablet and want the anonymity, security and geo restriction freedom that a VPN can offer, you've come to the right place to find the best free Android VPN for you.A virtual private network will allow you to keep your digital life more secure meaning your personal details are kept just that, private. This is great if you use open Wi-Fi like at coffee shops, airports or hotels where you're potentially open to threats. It's also ideal for watching geo restricted shows on Netflix when abroad.Best free Android VPN services at a glanceProtonVPN: Unlimited bandwidth and easy to useHotspot Shield VPN: Fast connection speeds and well-designed appsWindscribe VPN: Earn additional data each month for free with easeTunnelbear VPN: The easiest to use apps of the bunch We recommend ProtonVPN and Hotspot Shield for those looking at free Android VPN options, but you may also want to consider stepping up to a paid option like ExpressVPN. We've highli...

Bask in the glory of these summer serenades.What you need to knowGoogle and Spotify want to help keep you entertained this summer.Spotify's Songs of Summer playlist includes its predictions for the most popular songs this summer.The Summer Rewind playlist, meanwhile, will play your favorite songs from summers past.If being cooped up at home all summer is getting to you, worry not, for Spotify and Google are on the case. The duo this week announced two new summer-themed playlists, with full support for Google Assistant, of course."Spanning a variety of genres—from hip-hop to indie—Spotify's Songs of Summer predictions are based on a number of factors like streaming numbers, current trajectory and future forecasting from their global curation team," reads the blog from Google. The two companies, based on user data over the past few months, expect "This is America" by Childish Gambino and "Alright" by Kendrick Lamar to be the most popular tracks this summer.And if you'...

Samurai sword-fighting has never been prettier.Ghost of Tsushima is the first non-Infamous game from Sucker Punch Productions since 2005. While there's a lot of questions still about just what kind of game it is, here's everything we know about Ghost of Tsushima.War-torn landGhost of Tsushima Launch Edition$60 at Amazon$60 at Best Buy$60 at WalmartThe way of the GhostIn Ghost of Tsushima, Jin must decide what honor and principles are worth sacrificing in order to defeat the unstoppable Mongol invaders.Jump to:What is Ghost of Tsushima?Gameplay, story and featuresOur interview with the developersWill it be on PS5?When does it release?What is Ghost of Tsushima?We didn't know much about Ghost of Tsushima when Sucker Punch Productions (makers of Infamous) originally announced it at 2017's Paris Games Week. That changed as of E3 2018, with the company giving us more details and even a first look at gameplay for the upcoming game.What's certain i...

TCL's first update addresses some issues with the camera as the company rolls out price cuts on major retailers.What you need to knowTCL has rolled out the first set of updates for its Android phones.The company promises up to two years of support.Alongside the updates, price cuts of up to 15% are up for grabs on both phones.The TCL 10 Pro and T0L have received updates this week, bringing the duo up to the May 2020 security update. TCL earlier promised that it would deliver maintenance releases every two months, and this is the first such update. "We can confirm both the TCL 10 Pro and 10L will, at minimum, receive one major OS update as well as SMR updates every two months to two years," a TCL spokesperson said last month.Here's what's new (via XDA Developers):TCL 10 Pro (version v2.0.4D.H.D):Improved camera performanceTCL watermark no longer turned on by defaultImproved touch panel performance and user experienceEnhanced system stabilityAndroid Security Maint...

Best answer: Maybe, but we really don't know right now. It seems likely though since in a now-deleted thread on LinkedIn, a PlayStation executive said that the hardware is "also customizable in ways previous gens weren't."Stock up for PS5 games: PlayStation Store Gift Card (From $10 at Amazon)Can I customize my PS5?Right now, Sony has not explicitly stated that the PlayStation 5 could be customized. With that said, Sony's VP of UX design at PlayStation, Matt MacLaurin, made some interesting commentary in a thread on LinkedIn (spotted by The Verge) that has since been deleted. MacLaurin stated that "This [hardware] is also customizable in ways previous gens weren't," indicating that maybe players can do something to customize it on their own.What about special edition consoles?No unique special edition PS5 has been announced...yet. With that said, some special edition consoles will no doubt be announced later on to coincide with major PS5 games. In the very same (now-delet...

Amazon now has two parallel lines of Fire tablets at various price points for two distinct audiences — adults and children. Each line comes in 7-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch versions with different screen resolutions and storage options. And unlike most electronic gadgets, these Fire Tablets also come in a variety of fun colors. We'll tell you what our favorites are from each Fire Tablet model, and let's see if you agree!Calming ComfortFire HD 8 (2020) - Twilight BlueStaff pick for AdultsThe Fire HD 8 (10th Gen) was recently updated to match the overall color scheme of the Fire 7 and Fire HD 10 tablets. Out of all of the available colors, my favorite (by a longshot) is the Twilight Blue. There's something so calming and peaceful about it!$90 at Amazon$90 at Best BuyGlowing gadgetFire HD 8 Kids Edition (2020) - PinkStaff pick for kidsSomething about this color just makes me smile. Perhaps it's how the bright pink pops and reminds of bubble gum or cotton can...

The bill seeks to weaken encryption to help law enforcement agencies get necessary evidence from suspects' devices.What you need to knowU.S. Senate Republicans have introduced the Lawful Access to Encrypted Data Act, calling for an end to "warrant-proof" encryption.If the act is passed, tech giants such as Google, Apple, and Facebook will be required to help investigators access encrypted data. Facebook has responded to the proposed legislation by saying that weakening encryption will make everyone less safe. Republican lawmakers have proposed a new bill that seeks to end "warrant-proof" encryption that has been "disrupting" criminal investigations in the U.S. The Lawful Access to Encrypted Data Act, if passed, will force tech giants such as Facebook to comply with "lawful access" to encrypted data (via CNET).The proposed legislation will enable law enforcement agencies to retrieve encrypted information from tech giants to assist in their investigations and help carry out...

If you're reading this on your computer right now, what are you sitting on? I hope it's not like a box or something, that'd be awful. But chances are if it's just whatever chair you happened to have lying around, that's not much of an upgrade. Time to invest in one of the most important parts of your home computer setup, a good chair. The GTRacing red height-adjustable gaming chair is down to $155.99 on Amazon when you clip the $10 off on-page coupon. While the chair is $166 without the coupon, it was mostly recently selling for around $180 and even peaked as high as $200. The drop to $156 is one of the best prices we've seen in the last couple of months.In the EU, the GTRacing chair is also available in blue for 5% off with the on-page coupon.The GTRacing chair is designed for those of us who spend hours sitting in front of a beautiful computer screen. You need something that's going to last and keep you comfortable at the same time. The chair has a gaming design, but it would w...

Heads up! We share savvy shopping and personal finance tips to put extra cash in your wallet. Android Central may receive a commission from The Points Guy Affiliate Network. Please note that the offers mentioned below are subject to change at any time and some may no longer be available.If you're in the market for a personal Hilton credit card and are willing to pay an annual fee to receive a great welcome bonus and benefits, you may be wondering whether to apply for the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card or the benefits-heavy Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card.Both cards are offering excellent welcome bonuses of more than 100,000 points, but you'll have to keep in mind that TPG only values Hilton points at .6 cents each. Beyond that, these two cards exemplify the conundrum of deciding between a premium and entry-level credit card better than any other pair I can think of. The Aspire has an incredibly compelling value proposition and can pay for itself (and the...

Jumbo App promises big privacy controls to Android and iOS users in Jumbo 2.What you need to knowJumbo 2 version of the app adds new premium tiers and a block tracker feature.The redesigned app also features a new home screen for quick updates on your profile scans.The company also announced it had raised $8M in Series A funding.The privacy app Jumbo announced today that it has added several new features, expanded and clarified its various pricing tiers, and secured $8M in Series A funding to continue developing is services for Android and iOS users.Jumbo Privacy launched in April 2019, first on iOS, and then later that year on Android. The company provides a service to allow users to securely monitor and control what data gets permanently shared with different apps and websites, and even to download and erase that data if they choose to do so. None of the users' information or data is stored on Jumbo's servers; instead, it is all done directly between the user's device a...

Best answer: If you live in an apartment under 2,200 square feet, one Nest Wifi router should be enough. For most houses up to 3,800 square feet, a Nest Wifi router and point should be sufficient with the option to add more points later.For the house: Nest Wifi router and point ($269 at Dell)Enough for an apartment: Nest Wifi router ($169 at Dell)A faster mesh from GoogleThe Nest Wifi isn't Google's first or even second venture into home networking equipment. The Nest Wifi router is a continuation of what Google started with the Google Wifi line, offering a simple and straightforward approach to mesh networking. These routers have received a speed upgrade, up to 4x4 AC2200 speeds over Google Wifi at 2x2 AC1200. Basically, you'll be able to connect more devices at once without dropping speed.Nest Wifi consists of two products: the router and the point. The router has a larger coverage area than the points at 2,200 square feet vs. just 1,600 on the points. Every Nest mesh ...

Chatting it up with the AC forums.At CES 2019, LG ushered in something pretty interesting — its Dual Screen accessory. It debuted alongside the V50, adding a second display to the phone so you could have two distinct canvases for running apps, playing games, etc.LG has continued to offer the Dual Screen for all of its major flagships since then, including the G8X, V60, and the latest LG Velvet.Being able to slap a second screen on your phone at any given time is a great concept, but is it the future of smartphone design? Here's what some of our AC forum members think about it: jmssarno 06-18-2020 10:15 PM “ I have the dual screen and if you plan on doing a lot of multitasking, it's definitely worth it. I use mine on average about 3 times a week. There are a ton of YouTube videos showing the dual screen in action showcasing its capabilities, check them out if you haven't done so already. ...

Could it really be possible that the best free VPN is the best VPN choice for you? It sure can! By now you've likely heard the phrase Virtual Private Network or VPN, but you may not have already signed up and started using one. A VPN can add an extra layer of security to your phone, tablet, PC, and even gaming console. They've become increasingly popular over the past few years, and for good reason.Best Free VPNs Ranked1. Hotspot Shield: Offers 500MB of data per day2. ProtonVPN: No monthly data limits3. TunnelBear: Only 500MB of data for whole month4 Windscribe: Start with 10GB per month and earn more for free5. Hide.me: Upgraded from 2GB per month to 10GB now6 Speedify: 2GB for first month, 1GB each month afterThe best way to protect your data while you are out and about (and even when at home) is by using a VPN. With this, your data is routed through an extra server that makes it impossible for someone to spy on or intercept. There are lots of service options ranging i...

Here's what it's like using an enterprise Android gadget.When it comes to computing and connected devices, the market unquestionably leans towards the consumer side. But the same technology we use day to day also serves to connect those in the military, police, EMT, fire, and even those on a factory floor.For decades, Panasonic has met this demand with its TOUGHBOOK line of computers and phones. Today, the company is announcing its latest, the TOUGHBOOK A3 – a 10.1-inch Android tablet with dual-SIMs, and some features that will let it survive almost any natural disaster. Or just when you drop it from the ambulance.I've spent the last week with the TOUGHBOOK A3 and here is what you need to know.An Android tablet for the first linePanasonic TOUGHBOOK A3Bottom line: Panasonic's new TOUGHBOOK A3 is a 10.1-inch Android tablet built for police, EMT, military, and government. It's tough as hell, lasts all day, has built-in dual LTE abilities, and can be used in the rain. It'...

Whether you're doing laundry, driving home from work, or breaking a sweat at the gym, podcasts are great for filling up your time with the latest news, comedy shows, in-depth storytelling, and so much more. There are more than a few podcast apps on Android, but these are easily our favorites.The bestPocket CastsStaff pickPaying for apps is something a lot of people just won't do, but if you want the best podcast experience possible, it's worth shelling out a few bucks for Pocket Casts. The app has a gorgeous new design, a dark mode, playback controls, easy content discovery, and can be used on just about anything.Free w/ IAP at Google PlayUltimate customizationDoggCatcher Podcast PlayerIn addition to providing a clean look at interacting with your favorite playlists, DoggCatcher offers quite a few customization options. There is even the ability to set up some automation for your podcast playlist and better battery management.$2.99 at Google PlayMusi...

Chances are your phone supports wireless charging. It's super common these days with phones from major flagships all the way down to entry-level handsets now featuring Qi support. Wireless charging is really convenient, especially once you have a wireless charger in every place you might lay your phone down during the day or night.And it's not too expensive to stock up on wireless chargers with deals like this one offering two Choetech 10W wireless charging pads for only $13.99. All you have to do is clip the coupon on the product page and then enter code MKH8DONU during checkout. All told, you're shaving $6 off the 2-pack's usual cost and dropping the price of each charger down to just $7. It's a no-brainer buy at that point.Choetech's charging pads have a super-slim design and feature anti-slip rubber feet and top surface to keep the pad and your phone stationary while charging. Being a fast charger, it can power supported Android phones at up to 10W, with modern iPhone models ...

The new OnePlus TVs are expected to start at around $200 in the country.What you need to knowConsumers in India can now "pre-book" the new OnePlus TV series.Those who pre-book the new OnePlus TVs will get a two-year extended warranty for free. The new OnePlus TVs are set to debut in India on July 2. Earlier this month, OnePlus announced that it would be launching its first budget Smart TVs in India on July 2. The new OnePlus TV series is expected to be significantly cheaper than the Q1 series launched last year, with rumors suggesting a starting price of around $200. Ahead of the official launch next week, Amazon has opened pre-bookings for the new OnePlus TVs.While not much is known about the new OnePlus TV series yet, you can now head over to Amazon and pre-book the new OnePlus TV series for ₹1,000 ($13). Consumers who pre-book the new series will also get a two-year extended warranty and ₹1,000 as Amazon Pay balance by August 20. However, you will have to purchase ...

If you're all-in on Google products — think Android phones, Chromecast, Nest thermostats, and so on — and really want to get your smart home started, Google's smart devices should be your first choice. Not only are they super inexpensive with deals like this one offering two Google Home Mini smart speakers for just $20 apiece, but they link in with your existing first-party Google tech as well as all manner of smart home gear from smart plugs and bulbs, to door locks, robot vacuum cleaners and so much more.These days, a single Google Home Mini would cost around $30 at stores like Best Buy and B&H. Once you get one, you'll probably want to place these all around your home and buying this two-pack saves you $10 per device.These smart, Wi-Fi-enabled speakers are powered by the Google Assistant and allow you to listen to music, check on the weather, sports, and the latest news, get answers from Google and control compatible smart home devices with just your voice. The deal at...

OnePlus was one of the first companies to switch to 90Hz displays, and this year the OnePlus 8 Pro comes with a 120Hz panel. High refresh rate panels make a drastic difference in day-to-day use, but the downside is excessive battery usage. If you're using OnePlus' latest phones or an older device that doesn't last as long as it used to, here's what you can do to get the most battery life on your OnePlus phone.Use OnePlus' built-in battery optimizer within OxygenOSOnePlus has a robust battery optimization feature that's baked into OxygenOS. The feature includes the Adaptive Battery mode that debuted in Android 9.0 Pie, which automatically limits battery use for apps you don't use often. But that's just one portion of what makes OxygenOS' battery optimization so great.You also get the ability to optimize the battery life during standby — with the phone switching off network access and background services when you're asleep. Battery optimization has two modes: Intelligent Cont...

The feature will probably begin rolling out sometime in the coming weeks.What you need to knowWhatsApp will soon gain support for animated sticker images.WhatsApp briefly rolled out support for animated stickers on Android with beta v2.20.194.7. The latest WhatsApp beta v2.20.194.9, however, removes the feature. A report published by WABetaInfo earlier this month had revealed that WhatsApp is planning to introduce the ability to search messages by date on both Android and iOS. While the search by date feature is expected to begin rolling out sometime later this year, it looks like WhatsApp users will soon be able to view animated stickers.WhatsApp added support for animated stickers with beta version 2.20.194.7 on Android and 2.20.70.26 on iOS (via WABetaInfo). As per Android Police, however, the feature has now been removed with the latest beta v2.20.194.9.If you have WhatsApp beta 2.20.194.7 installed on your phone, you may be able to view animated stickers in conve...

LG's new sub-flagship shines with a striking design and Dual Screen, but fumbles some of the basics.The long-running LG G series retires this year, and in its place comes a new mid-level flagship built around design and aesthetic beauty. The LG Velvet mixes up the stale design language seen in some of the company's recent phones, and also boasts 5G connectivity thanks to Qualcomm's Snapdragon 765G platform. In fact, it'll be among the first 765-powered phones to arrive in the West.LG's Dual Screen is back too, with a new, slimmer, and more stylish version of the accessory shipping for the Velvet. The Dual Screen was pretty goofy a year ago when it first debuted alongside the V50. In the past year, however, LG has refined the hardware and software to the point where it's genuinely useful, improving gaming and multitasking similarly to a phone with a true foldable screen.But even though this might be LG's best-looking and most useful phone yet, it's let down by weaknesses that ...

Some provoking thoughts from a massive former figure in Sony's development army.What you need to knowShawn Layden is the former Chairman of Sony Worldwide Studios.During Gamelab Live today, Layden noted that the cost of game development is continuing to rise. Layden also explained he'd prefer to see more 12-15 hour games making a return. Shawn Layden, the former Chairman of Sony Worldwide Studios, left abrubtly in September 2019. Since then, he's been on an extended hiatus but he made time to talk with VentureBeat's Dean Takahashi during Gamelab Live today.During the extended talk, Layden noted that the cost of game development will continue to rise even as the pre-remote development world is gone. "That world is gone. That world is now sealed in amber. Everything that was pre-virus is now a historical artifact," he explains, even as he remembers the days that games took $1 million to make — days long gone by, as AAA budgets now range from "$80 to $150 million...and tha...

If you're using a Samsung Galaxy S8 and haven't taken advantage of its wireless charging capabilities, what have you been waiting for? Wireless charging allows you to forgo dealing with cables and have your phone charging on your desk at work or nightstand at home and simply grab it when it's time to get up and go. There's a good variety of styles compatible with the Galaxy S8 and here are the best available options.Fast and stylishSamsung Fast Charge Convertible Wireless Charging PadStaff pickMade by Samsung, this convertible charging pad/stand hides all the charging tech in a stylishly designed casing that looks equally at home in the office, the living room, or the bedroom.$40 at AmazonCompact and adaptableSamsung Fast Charge Wireless Charger PadFor the same fast charging speeds in a smaller package, look for Samsung's flat wireless charging pad. This model is designed to charge Samsung smartwatches and Galaxy Buds as well as phones.$29 at Amazon$50 at Best ...

In a world where most people in the United States buy smartphones through carriers like Verizon and AT&T, it's important to highlight the market of unlocked phones. When you buy a phone unlocked, you have the freedom to use it on any carrier you want (so long as it's supported) and often save money in the long haul compared to purchasing it on a contract or installment plan. The Pixel 3a is the best unlocked Android phone you can buy in 2020, but it's not the only one we recommend checking out. Here's a list of our favorites!Best Overall: Pixel 3aReleased in May 2019, the Pixel 3a is the first mid-range phone to be sold under Google's "Pixel" brand. And, you know what? It's pretty darn great.What helps the 3a stand out the most is its impressive 12.2-megapixel single rear camera. That may not sound very impressive in a world with multi-camera phones reaching 40 megapixels and beyond, but the Pixel 3a captures some of the most consistently-great pictures of any handset you...