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Custom chips are about to mean so much more.ARM announced new CPU designs for 2020 and one of them is something nobody saw coming — a program that would help companies that make processors build specially customized chips targeting specific user-facing improvements.You might have read about how the new Cortex-X1 CPU will be 22% faster than the new Cortex A78 design, but that doesn't do the new Cortex-X program justice. The exciting part of it all is how companies like Qualcomm, Samsung, or even Google could work with ARM and build a chip that's a fully customized reference design. In other words, the people who invented the technology will help make it work for a specific use case. Cores can be big and fast or little and slow — it all depends on how long you want the battery to last.There is no magic involved. A CPU is made of individual processing units called cores. You've heard of dual-core or octa-core processors before, and that simply means that the actual silico...

We highly recommend the Fitbit Versa 2 for a wide variety of styles and uses, including automatic activity tracking, on-screen workouts, Fitbit Pay, music storage, and so much more. It's no wonder that Fitbit continues to be one of the many highly regarded names in the industry with all it has to offer. However, don't worry if that's not your cup of tea. There are quite a few other options to choose from. Whether you're looking for specific software, design, or feature set, you'll be able to find a fitness tracker that checks all the boxes on your wish list.Best Overall — Fitbit Versa 2Fitbit Versa 2 FeaturesHeart rate monitorAltimeter5-day battery lifeSleep trackingMusic playerAmazon Alexa built-inWater resistance to 50 metersAMOLED screenFitbit PayReplaceable bandCompatibility with Android, iOS, and Windows Swapping out the Versa 2 band isn't as easy as some other Fitbit models we've seen. Trying to attach a new band is a bit of a challenge. Not only is the...

Best answer: You don't need any external sensors or any additional hardware to use the Oculus Quest. Everything you need is in the box, and its sensors are built into the headset. The device even now supports Playspace Scanning, which helps you even more to avoid tripping on your environment.Standalone virtual reality: Oculus Quest ($399 at Best Buy)Insight trackingThe Oculus Quest has an array of four wide-angle cameras built into the device. These are in lieu of any external sensors, towers, or cameras that are common among other headsets such as the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. These cameras help power Oculus Insight, the headset's tracking system that maps out the area you're in real life, tracks your movement, and tracks your Touch Controllers.The Oculus Quest supports six degrees of freedom tracking. This means that the Oculus Quest can track your movement up, down, left, right, forward, and back. As a result, the Oculus Quest can track your movements as you move around ...

Pixel 4's Project Soli opens up new modes of interaction. Not much has been done with it.What you need to knowGoogle has released a developer-focused Soli Sandbox app.The app is intended to allow developers to test out new Soli experiences on Pixel hardware.Soli is expected to leave the Pixel line come the debut of Google's Pixel 5. Google first rolled out its Project Soli-powered Motion Sense with the launch of Pixel 4, as its first showcase of what the technology could offer users in a consumer context. Now, it's released the Soli Sandbox app to spur developer interest in the technology.The app description aptly reads: Soli Sandbox is a way to connect your web prototypes to Soli interactions on Pixel 4. Create a prototype on your computer, and set it in motion with Soli gestures through the Soli Sandbox app. You'll be able to use touchless swipes, taps, and more in your own prototypes!Project Soli, when initially debuted, it only had a few gestures enabled. Googl...

Make your Android app experience a good one.Our phones are pocket-sized supercomputers with professional-grade cameras and battery for days, but without the apps to take advantage of it, what would be the point? There are millions upon millions of Android apps that transform our phones from shiny glass slabs into productivity powerhouses, and over the last year, these are the apps that have seized the day and made our lives easier, faster, and better.Work smarter, not harderWho needs a personal assistant when you have services like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa available wherever you go? These types of apps aim to help alleviate the stresses and pressures of your day-to-day life to make things easier. From automation to smart home products, and everything in between, these apps allow you to get work done with some help.With you everywhereGoogle AssistantFrom Assistant Routines in Google Clock to the vast expansion of Assistant-compatible smart home devices, ...

America's Got Talent is about to take the stage for its fifteenth season. The nation's favorite talent show competition is returning to NBC this week with a new group of singers, comedians, dancers, and more performers to keep the whole family entertained while social distancing. Despite the production shutdowns which have impacted the TV industry since mid-March, America's Got Talent has been lucky enough to continue auditions virtually — as they say, the show must go on.Season 15 of America's Got Talent features host Terry Crews alongside former judges Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel, returning judge Heidi Klum, and newcoming judge Sofia Vergara. Parts of the season were filmed earlier this year, and for the first time in the history of America's Got Talent, viewers will watch some auditions without an audience in the room. Other auditions to be aired were conducted virtually after traditional production was halted. With that in mind and the uncertainty around filming the rest of t...

The first mobile chipsets using the new Cortex-A78 CPU design are expected to be announced later this year.What you need to knowARM has introduced its latest mobile solutions aimed at next-generation flagship smartphones.The new Cortex-A78 CPU brings a 20% performance increase over Cortex-A77 based devices.ARM's new Mali-G78 promises 'game-changing' graphics, with a claimed 25% improvement in performance. ARM today unveiled its next-generation mobile computing solution, including two new high-performance CPU core designs and a Valhall-based GPU (via AnandTech).ARM's new Cortex-A78 is designed for high-end devices and promises to deliver a 20% improvement in sustained performance over the Cortex-A77 within the same mobile thermal power envelope. Along with higher performance, the new Cortex-A78 CPU core design is claimed to deliver impressive efficiency improvements as well. ARM claims the Cortex-A78 can provide up to 50% energy savings over devices from 2019 at the same ...

You might need a workaround if you want to play Naughty Dog's latest in a couple of countries.What you need to knowThe Last of Us Part II is not available on the PlayStation Saudi Arabia or United Arab Emirates storefronts.According to PlayStation Support, this is because it has been banned by the "competent authorities" in charge.The Last of Us Part II is set to release on June 19, 2020.While The Last of Us Part II is just a few weeks away from release, it appears that it won't be available in every PlayStation storefront around the world. As spotted by VG247, Reddit user Ghostechful got in touch with PlayStation Support, who stated that the game was not available on the Saudi Arabia or United Arab Emirates storefronts because it "...is banned by the competent authorities of the country."It's worth noting that the PlayStation Arabia Twitter account is still advertising the upcoming State of Play showcase for The Last of Us Part II is coming on May 27 at 4:00 p.m. EST, wh...

Voice Match will make your Assistant guided purchases more secure.What you need to knowGoogle Assistant will now work with Voice Match to authenticate your orders.The feature is currently being tested. Voice Match authentication is restricted to digital purchases made through Google Play, though the company notes that it varies per country.Google is making it more secure to pay with your voice with Assistant-enabled devices. It has added Voice Match authentication to Assistant, allowing the service to confirm that it is the account owner (or another authorized user) who is making the purchase. It's much like how you can add the option for a fingerprint or a pin to Google Play purchases made conventionally on a phone or tablet. Google has also rolled out a recent update to its Voice Match service, allowing for more precision-guided voice recognition in anticipation of this change."When you authorize payments with Voice Match, you can make purchases with your Google Assis...

Knocking down another barrier to simple universal messaging.What you need to knowT-Mobile now has a full standards-based RCS implementation for cross-carrier advanced messaging.Full RCS chat features are now available to customers chatting with people on other carriers globally.Nearly 40 phones T-Mobile sells support RCS Universal Profile.T-Mobile has led the charge in the rollout of RCS messaging features in the U.S., and has now reached a big milestone with an announcement that it is now using a complete standards-based RCS implementation. This has the important effect of meaning T-Mobile customers can now have rich RCS chats with people on other carriers around the world that also comply to the standard.Every country and carrier that supports Google RCS Now if you're a T-Mobile customer, you know you have all of the tools to use RCS chat.One of the biggest ongoing issues with RCS messaging is its cross-carrier compatibility, with different carriers using their o...

The best streaming VPN will let you get access to video online, no matter where you are. That means the likes of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube and more can all have their geo restrictions dodged so you can get your streaming video fill.That sounds illegal. Well, in some cases it can potentially put you at risk and we're not here to condone getting a VPN to unblock UK BBC iPlayer when you're a U.S. resident, for example. But if you're a UK resident and TV license payer traveling overseas then you have every right to unblock access so you can catch Sherlock's latest capers.A VPN will allow you to appear somewhere you are not so that you can access the home grown shows and movies a streaming service offers, geo restricted, to that one country. It'll also keep you anonymous while doing that.How does a streaming VPN get me access?A VPN, or virtual private network, works by bouncing your signal through another server, using an assigned IP address. All that means y...

Fill your free time with some binge-worthy content. Right now you can get the Sling TV Premium Pass for just $20 for the first month. Not only is that $10 off the regular price, but this special deal also includes the channels Showtime, Starz, and Epix for free that first month in addition to the dozens of other channels you get with Sling Blue or Sling Orange. The three premium channels would usually cost an extra $24 as add-ons. The $20 deal applies to either Sling Orange or Sling Blue, and each service has plenty to offer. However, you can also combine the two with this deal and get Blue and Orange for $35 instead of the usual $45.The price will jump after that first month, so be aware of the time on your subscription. Binge while you can and decide for yourself if you want to keep going.As mentioned before, the regular Premium Pass includes either Sling Orange or Sling Blue. These are both packages that include more than 30 channels in addition to your three premium channels ...

It's part of a strategy to create an entire ecosystem of devices.What you need to knowIn a recent interview, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau said his company is re-focusing efforts to create cheap phones once again.It's part of a new strategy to create an ecosystem of connected OnePlus devices.More premium phones like the OnePlus 8 Pro aren't going away.If you're a long-time OnePlus fan, chances are the company's last couple of releases have been somewhat disappointing. Devices like the OnePlus 7 Pro and OnePlus 8 Pro have proven to be excellent phones that cost considerably less than ones from Samsung and Apple, but their prices have still been noticeably higher than the days of the original OnePlus One and OnePlus 2.You wouldn't be wrong in thinking that recent OnePlus phones have lost sight of what made the company so appealing in the first place, and thankfully, it looks like OnePlus is well aware of that. In a recent interview with Fast Company, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau confirmed t...

What you need to knowSpotify is removing its 10,000-song library limit.Users have been requesting this change for six years.Users can download 10,000 songs on five devices for offline listening.Spotify is the leader in music streaming with over 130 million subscribers. That's the number of paid subscribers, up from 100 million last August. And given that there are over 50 million tracks to choose from, Spotify's seemingly-arbitrary 10,000-song library limit has been a long-term source of consternation for the company's many voracious collectors.Now, Spotify is removing that limit completely, making it possible to save as many songs or albums into one's library as desired. This may seem like a small thing — who has a collection that large, anyway? — but as the service makes it ever-easier to "heart" a song or album, which in turn makes the recommendation algorithm more effective, users were finding themselves hitting that 10,000-song number more and more often.Spotify ...

A great feature on some smartwatches is the battery-saving feature known as raise to wake. It's a wonderful option to have, whether you use the always-on display option or not. By enabling this feature, you can have your watch become "active" as soon as the device senses it's been lifted. Activating the watch can show live data on your watch face or make the device ready for your input. Regardless if you want the feature always enabled or just in certain situations, changes are only a few easy steps away from either with the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone or via the watch itself.Products used in this guideReady when you are: Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 44mm (From $300 at Best Buy)The control center: Galaxy Wearable (Free at Google Play Store)How to enable raise-to-wake through the Galaxy Wearable appLet's look at the taps needed to turn on the raise-to-wake feature using the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone.Ensure your phone and watch are connected via Bluetooth.O...

A pilot of SwissCovid is now available to several thousand people in Switzerland.What you need to knowThe first contact tracing app based on Apple and Google's technology has gone live.SwissCovid is now being piloted in Switzerland.It is available to several thousand employees at some hospitals, key workers, civil servants, and the army. The very first contact tracing app powered by Google and Apple's exposure notification APIs has gone live in Switzerland.FAQ: What is the Google-Apple COVID-19 (coronavirus) Exposure Notifications system?As announced on Twitter by EPFL yesterday, 'SwissCovid' is now undertaking a large scale pilot, with hopes that it will pave the way for public availability by mid-June.As of today, employees at @EPFL, @ETH_en, @vbs_ddps and some hospitals and cantonal administrations can download the digital proximity tracing application #SwissCovid. This large-scale pilot paves the way for public availability by mid-June. https://t.co/E9hl43g8Ca #CO...

The first phones powered by MediaTek's new Dimensity 820 chipset.What you need to knowThe Redmi 10X series is now official.Redmi 10X is the most affordable 5G phone yet, starting at just 1,599 yuan ($224). Both the Redmi 10X 5G and 10X Pro are powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 820 chipset and come with a 48MP main camera.Redmi today unveiled its new 10X series of smartphones in China. The Redmi 10X series includes the 10X 5G, 10X Pro, and the 10X 4G. While the Redmi 10X and 10X Pro are all-new phones, the 10X 4G is just a rebranded Redmi Note 9.Redmi 10X and 10X Pro feature a 6.57-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a waterdrop notch at the top and a 180Hz touch sampling rate. The two phones are powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 820 chipset, which was announced just last week.In the camera department, the standard Redmi 10X has a triple-camera setup on the back with a 48MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The Pro model has a more impressive qua...

The Galaxy S20 is one of the most beautiful phones ever made, but it's also made of slippery metal and scratchable glass. If you're worried about scratching up that new expensive phone, there's no time like the present to grab yourself a great case to protect your shiny new flagship when your order shows up.Mesmerizing colorsCaseology ParallaxStaff pick$14 at Amazon$25 at CaseologyThis hybrid honey of a case has a lot in common with the Spigen Neo Hybrid, but it's got better color combos for that great protection, including a new new teal "Aqua Green" that is even more alluring in person than the renders do justice.Get a gripSpigen Liquid Air$12 at Amazon$20 at SpigenKeep your carbon fiber classics and give me the Liquid Air any day of the week. The diamond pattern covering the back is just deep enough to add real grip while still feeling slim and sleek in the hand.Durable and diamond clearRingke Fusion X$10 at Amazon $11 at eBay The Fusion X ...

Here's the lowdown on Samsung's newest Note.Every year, there are certain phones we just can't help but get excited about — one of which is the Galaxy Note. From the first Note that debuted in 2011 up to last year's Note 10, Samsung's stylus-equipped flagships are regularly some of the most interesting to hit the market.Samsung revamped its naming convention this year with the Galaxy S lineup, going from the S10 to the S20. We're expecting something similar for the Note lineup, meaning 2020 will see the launch of the Galaxy Note 20.From the latest specs, leaked renders, pricing rumors, and more, here's everything you need to know!We're expecting at least two modelsGet ready for a familiar designSpecs? Here's what we knowThere won't be a physical launch eventLet's discuss pricingDon't overlook the Note 10Today's NoteGalaxy Note 10+From $950 at Samsung$900 at Best BuyPlenty of specs and features for years to comeWhile we are excited to see what Samsung...

Having a chat with the AC forums.The Android smartphone market is one that can be difficult to keep up with. Year after year, companies push out new handsets with subtle or major tweaks compared to its predecessor. Whether it be slimmer bezels, a slightly thinner body, or a new style for a camera bump, many of these changes are often in the design department.A new design is one of those things we've come to expect for every new phone release, but is it something we actually want or need? YouTuber Juan Bagnell recently posted a video talking about this very topic, arguing that there's something to be said for Apple's decision to keep reusing and recycling the same design for years at a time.As you might expect, this is something that got a lot of our AC forum members talking. Here's what some of them had to say in response to the video: methodman89 05-24-2020 04:34 PM “ If people would stop buy...

ARPGs — or action role-playing games — are a fantastic genre, including such greats as the Diablo series. Though the term is technically ambiguous, the other meaning being used to describe an RPG with a focus on live-action combat (think Dark Souls), traditional ARPGs have been around for a very long time. Though the Diablo franchise is considered by many to be the king of the genre, they have been many greats that I daresay equal, or surpass, Blizzard's offering, such as Titan Quest and Grim Dawn.And while we have Titan Quest on Android — a mostly solid port, in my opinion — my new mobile ARPG of choice is Anima (stylized as "AnimA"), a straight-up Diablo clone that isn't afraid to admit it. Even the font is extremely similar, if not outright the same, as the iconic one found in Blizzard's hit franchise.To be honest, the story for Anima doesn't matter all that much to me. Sure, it keeps me slightly interested as I go on, but the real draw of an ARPG is the loot. Oh b...

Most Memorial Day sales are now over, but Marshall still has a discount available on its flagship Major III Bluetooth headphones. These on-ear wireless headphones regularly sell for $149.99, though right now you can pick up a pair for only $79.99 in your choice of Black, White, or Brown while supplies last. That saves you $70 off their usual cost, and you'll score free shipping at Marshall with the purchase as well.Marshall's Major II Bluetooth headphones feature aptX codec support for upgraded audio quality and a 30-foot wireless range. The equipped 30mm dynamic drivers have been custom tuned for enhanced bass response, smooth mids and crystal clear highs, while the built-in battery lets you listen for up to 30 hours on a single charge. They take about three hours to recharge fully using the included microUSB cable.Meanwhile, an integrated multi-directional control knob lets you play, pause, shuffle, and adjust the volume of your music. It even lets you power the headphones on o...

However, older OnePlus phones with 90Hz displays will not be able to run the game at 90 fps.What you need to knowThe OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro are the first smartphones to be able to run Fortnite at 90 fps.OnePlus says it worked with Epic Games for months to bring 90 fps to Fortnite on the OnePlus 8 series phones.OnePlus 7, 7 Pro, 7T, and 7T Pro users will only be able to play Fortnite at a maximum of 60 fps. OnePlus' latest flagship phones – the OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro are now the first smartphones to be capable of running Fortnite at 90 frames per second.Pete Lau, OnePlus founder and CEO, said in a statement: OnePlus and Epic Games have created one of the best Fortnite experiences ever on a smartphone. The OnePlus 8 Series delivers a smooth, high framerate Fortnite gameplay experience – that even current generation console game systems can't match. OnePlus creates the best devices for mobile gaming through our industry leading display, speedy performance, and overall user...

Best answer: Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active is still a great buy. With all the new smartwatches coming out these days, it can feel difficult to keep up. Let us not forget the original Galaxy Watch Active is only a year old. It's still an outstanding piece of tech with plenty to offer at a fair price. That being said, the second edition is packed with premium features that some users might appreciate.Affordable fitness companion: Samsung Galaxy Watch Active ($150 at Best Buy)Premium features: Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 ($280 at Best Buy) A highly capable smartwatchWhen choosing a smartwatch, you want to be sure that it has the features you're looking for. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active is overflowing with health and activity tracking perks, which makes it ideal for fitness fans. It can automatically detect and record seven exercises with tracking for 39 more. You've also got built-in GPS, so mapping your route on a run is a breeze. Some other benefits include sleep ...

Years after the debut of Google Glass, Apple is likely to show us its version later this year. But what exactly will they do?Smart glasses are not only a thing from the movies that you can't wear at the theater — they actually exist. Google debuted its Google Glass Explorer program in 2012 as an experimental product that you had to sign up for a chance to buy, and since we've seen smart glasses from companies ranging from Panasonic to North to Snapchat. But despite that proliferation, it seems that very few people want them or even really care about them.So why, eight years after Google Glass, is Apple releasing its own smart glasses? And we know they are: code for the product was accidentally included in an official developer tools release, and YouTuber John Prosser has a load of details on exactly what to expect and when. Apple really is doing this.But Apple is doing it a bit differently than we've seen before. That's the benefit of watching eight years of smart glasses evo...

We truly are living in the future with doorbells you can answer from anywhere in the world, from the comfort of your smartphone. But it's not always that affordable to add one to your smart home setup, especially if you want one you can trust. Fortunately, B&H is making it a lot less expensive to install the Ring Video Doorbell Pro bundled with the Chime Pro dropping in price to $169.99. That's $80 less than the doorbell alone and a $130 savings over buying the doorbell and chime separately.Ring's Video Doorbell Pro takes the place of your existing hardwired doorbell at home. It's equipped with a 1080p HD camera featuring infrared night vision that lets you view its video feed using an app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer, and you'll be able to do so from anywhere in the world. It's also equipped with a microphone and built-in speaker that allows you to speak with any visitors that arrive at your door. There's an integrated motion sensor that can send an alert to your ph...

OnePlus is rolling out the update in batches.What you need to knowAfter a long wait, the OnePlus 5 and 5T phones are finally receiving their stable Android 10-based OxygenOS 10 update.OnePlus had promised in October last year that it would update the two phones to Android 10 by Q2 2020.The update brings a refreshed UI design, full-screen gestures, enhanced location permissions, and more.The highly-anticipated stable Android 10-based OxygenOS 10 update for the OnePlus 5 and 5T phones has finally started rolling out. OnePlus is rolling out the update in stages, so it could take at least a few weeks for OxygenOS 10 to become widely available.As per XDA Developers, the update weighs in at 1.8GB in size and brings quite a few new features. It comes with a new UI design, enhanced privacy and location controls, Game Space to add all your favorite games in once place, ability to block spam messages by keywords, full-screen gestures, and more. The changelog also notes that the E...

The earbuds have a low latency "gaming mode" as well.What you need to knowXiaomi's Redmi sub-brand today launched its first truly wireless earbuds for the Indian market.The earbuds, called Redmi Earbuds S, have been priced at just ₹1,799 ($24).It will be going on sale in India via both online and offline stores starting May 27.Xiaomi's Redmi sub-brand today ventured into the true wireless earbuds market in India with the new Redmi Earbuds S. The launch of the Redmi Earbuds S comes less than three weeks after the launch of Xiaomi's Mi True Wireless 2 earphones in the country.Redmi's first truly wireless earbuds for the Indian market feature a compact design and are said to be "ultra lightweight" as well. They come with an IPX4 rating, which means they are both sweat and splash resistant. The Redmi Earbuds S are claimed to offer up to 12 hours of playback time, 2 hours less than the more expensive Mi True Wireless Earphones 2. The earbuds themselves, however, only offer u...

It is rumored to feature a 1.2-inch full-color AMOLED display.What you need to knowAlleged real-world photos of the upcoming Xiaomi Mi Band 5 have surfaced.The photos suggest the Mi Band 5 will feature a larger display than its predecessor and come with a new charger design. It is expected to be launched in China in late June or early July.A recent leak had suggested that the upcoming Xiaomi Mi Band 5 would be a major upgrade over the Mi Band 4 in many areas. Alleged live images showing the wearable have now leaked on Weibo, reaffirming a bigger screen and a new charger design (via GSMArena).While the latest leak does not confirm the actual display size, the images do suggest the Mi Band 5 will have a larger display than its predecessor. Rumors suggest the fitness band will come with a 1.2-inch screen, a decent upgrade over the 0.95-inch display size of the Mi Band 4. In terms of design, however, the Mi Band 5 will not be vastly different. The upcoming fitness band will ...

Xiaomi Mi 10Everything you need₹49,999 at Xiaomi IndiaProsIncredible 108MP cameraVibrant 90Hz display Snapdragon 865 chipset with 5G Fantastic battery life30W wired and wireless chargingConsNo IP ratingMacro camera isn't usableNo zoom lensMIUI has issuesThe Mi 10 has the latest hardware you'll find on a phone today, and a 108MP camera at the back that takes incredible photos in any lighting condition. The 90Hz display is one of the best FHD+ panels you'll find, you get excellent battery life, and there's 30W wired and wireless charging. MIUI has a few lingering issues and the auxiliary cameras aren't great, but overall the Mi 10 is a fantastic choice.Xiaomi Mi 10 ProAll the extras€999 at XiaomiProsIncredible 108MP cameraClass-leading 10x hybrid zoom lensVibrant 90Hz display Snapdragon 865 chipset with 5G 50W wired and 30W wireless chargingConsNo IP ratingGlitchy MIUI The Mi 10 Pro is the best phone Xiaomi has launched to date....

Android Central's top-ranking Chromebook reviews rankedThe best Chromebooks of 2020 can provide a top-notch computing experience, perfect for students, grandparents and anyone looking for a trouble-free laptop with long battery life. We've reviewed and rated the absolute best Chromebooks so that you can find the best value at any budget. Our buyer's guide will help you find the perfect Chrome OS laptop or tablet.Best overallLenovo Chromebook C340 (11.6")$260 at Walmart$309 at CDW$320 at Lenovo$320 at AmazonThe best Chromebook just got better.With double the USB ports and 8GB models on the horizon, Lenovo's aluminum-lidded laptop is more than a pretty face.Lenovo Chromebook C340 (11.6") Features11.6-inch 10-point IPS touchscreenAluminum lid, plastic bodyIntel Celeron N40004-8GB RAM, 32-64GB storageUp to 10-hour battery lifePretty pink or silver color optionsWhile last year's C330 skimped on ports, the Lenovo Chromebook C340 (also known as the C340-11) f...

The Galaxy S20 is one of the most beautiful phones ever made, but it's also made of slippery metal and scratchable glass. If you're worried about scratching up that new expensive phone, there's no time like the present to grab yourself a great case to protect your shiny new flagship when your order shows up.Mesmerizing colorsCaseology ParallaxStaff pick$14 at Amazon$25 at CaseologyThis hybrid honey of a case has a lot in common with the Spigen Neo Hybrid, but it's got better color combos for that great protection, including a new new teal "Aqua Green" that is even more alluring in person than the renders do justice.Get a gripSpigen Liquid Air$12 at Amazon$20 at SpigenKeep your carbon fiber classics and give me the Liquid Air any day of the week. The diamond pattern covering the back is just deep enough to add real grip while still feeling slim and sleek in the hand.Durable and diamond clearRingke Fusion X$10 at Amazon $11 at eBay The Fusion X ...

With the elimination of the headphone jack from many newer phones, wireless headphones are surging in popularity, and noise-canceling is one of the most highly requested features. Though once a premium feature found only in extremely expensive headphones, these days noise-canceling is available in Bluetooth headphones of all price ranges and form factors. The Sony WH-1000XM3 ANC headphones have class-leading noise-canceling performance and great battery life.Best Overall: Sony WH-1000XM3Without a doubt, the WH-1000XM3 are the best active noise canceling (ANC) headphones on the market, period. If you need ANC, the WH-1000XM3 will undoubtedly come up in your conversation or Google search. The ANC is so good that the next-best set of ANC headphones on the market are a distant second. On a flight? Commuting on a bus or train? Walking down the block? The WH-10000XM3 has your back.In addition to the stellar ANC, the WH-1000XM3 are just great headphones. The battery lasts up to 30 h...

Ready for another look into the post-apocalypse that awaits?What you need to knowThe Last of Us Part II recently went gold, finishing development.A new State of Play episode is going to show off around 20 minutes of footage from the game.This State of Play will begin on May 27 at 4:00 p.m. EST. The Last of Us Part II is set to release on June 19, 2020.While a recent State of Play took a look at Ghost of Tsushima from Sucker Punch, the next State of Play is focused on The Last of Us Part II, which is just under a month away. This showcase of Naughty Dog's upcoming blockbuster will begin on May 27 at 4:00 p.m. EST.State of Play’s next episode is dedicated to #TheLastofUsPartII: https://t.co/8pcWYt3biZ Tune in Wednesday at 9pm BST / 10pm CEST for a deep dive and a new gameplay sequence. pic.twitter.com/DBtHjKZEr8— PlayStation Europe (@PlayStationEU) May 25, 2020Much like past State of Play episodes, there won't be any PlayStation 5 news. This is focused solely on Th...

A good Wi-Fi signal is a fight against physics, with radio signals attempting to travel through walls and objects without major degradation. While your signal will eventually fade in any scenario, there are some steps you can take to make sure you're getting the most out of your router. Whether you find a better placement or just need to make sure your equipment is running efficiently, these are some steps you can take to improve your signal.Products used in this guideDefeat dead zones with a mesh network: Nest Wifi Router and Point ($269 at Best Buy)More consistent coverage with Wi-Fi 6 tech: Asus RT-AX58U ($160 at Best Buy)Check the softwareOne of the first things to do is to make sure your software is up to date on both your phone and router. While not directly related to signal, using a VPN, for example, can make your internet feel slower. If you're on your home Wi-Fi, you probably don't need to use a VPN.Newer routers can connect to a phone app so you can choose a...

The PlayStation VR (PSVR) is a phenomenal headset, but there are always more accessories and other items you can use to enhance your experience. If you're looking for the best travel and display cases, we can show you our favorite. Do you want better sound quality or controller options? We know the best options for those, too. We've got your back all the way down to keeping your PSVR safe, clean, and at its peak performance. Here's everything you need to live like a king in virtual reality.On-the-goUSA Gear PSVR and console travel caseStaff pickOne of the best parts of virtual reality is sharing it with your loved ones. Make traveling easy with this USA Gear travel case. It has enough room to fit your PSVR headset, PSVR processor, PlayStation 4 console (Original, Slim, or Pro), headphones, cords for both your PSVR and PlayStation, DualShock controllers, Move controllers, and extra games! The case itself is designed like a laptop carrying case, making it incredibly easy and ...

Red and blue is coming at you from every direction.What you need to knowA new Memorial Day update for Beat Saber includes 46 new beatmaps for existing songs.In addition to 360-degree and 90-degree levels, Beat Games has created a new normal and expert+ difficulties for some single saber songs.This update is free and available on all platforms including Oculus Quest, PlayStation VR (PSVR), and PC VR platforms.While Beat Saber gamers have grown accustomed to getting new songs whenever an update comes out, this Memorial Day update brings something a little bit different. In what could easily be considered the biggest Beat Saber update ever, Beat Games has included a whopping 46 new beatmaps for gamers to play through. In total, 18 songs have been updated with new maps.New 360-degree and 90-degree levels include Rum 'N Bass, LUV U NEED U, Reason For Living, The Greatest Show, Rattlesnake, Has a Meaning, Digital, Fire Ready Aim, Escape, and POP/STARS. Single Saber additions in...

Earth, Water, Air, Fire and Spirit.At the Game Awards 2019, we got our first look at in-engine footage for a PlayStation 5 game, Godfall. Developed by Counterplay Games and published by Gearbox Publishing, Godfall is a new IP, set in a world of knights and realms of magical elements. Described as a "third-person Looter-Slasher," this game is the first official PlayStation 5 that has been revealed. Here's everything we know about Godfall.What is the story in GodfallGodfall trailerGodfall gameplay and featuresIs Godfall coming to PlayStation 4?Is Godfall coming to PC?Is Godfall coming to Xbox One?When is the release date for Godfall?Godfall storyGodfall is set in a world with multiple, distinct realms: Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and Spirit. You play as a member of the Knight's Order, who are attempting to keep the apocalypse at bay. Counterplay Games says the world was inspired by works such as Brandon Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive and Isaac Asimov's Foundation.The...

It could debut sometime in the third quarter of the year.What you need to knowThe second-generation Motorola RAZR smartphone could feature a more powerful Snapdragon 765 chipset under the hood.It is also tipped to come equipped with a 48MP rear camera, 5G connectivity, and a 20MP front camera.Motorola is expected to take the wraps off the second-gen RAZR in September.Lenovo South Africa general manager Thibault Dousson revealed during a Reframed Tech podcast last week that the company's second-gen RAZR will be released in September. While the executive did not reveal any other details, the folks at XDA Developers have published a new report detailing some of the key upgrades that the second-gen RAZR will bring to the table.The second-gen Motorola RAZR will apparently be powered by the newer and more powerful Snapdragon 765 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. In the camera department, the foldable phone will feature a 48MP Samsung ISOCELL Bright ...

The OnePlus Buds might debut alongside the company's rumored OnePlus Z smartphone.What you need to knowOnePlus' first truly wireless earbuds will apparently be called the OnePlus Buds.They are expected to feature an AirPods-inspired design. The earbuds are tipped to launch in July. OnePlus launched its third pair of wireless earbuds alongside the OnePlus 8 series smartphones last month, called the OnePlus Wireless Z. However, just like the previous generation wireless earbuds from OnePlus, the OnePlus Wireless Z are not truly wireless. According to a new tweet from leaker Max J, the company's first truly wireless earbuds will be unveiled in July.pic.twitter.com/SXfWzzAfKJ— Max J. (@MaxJmb) May 23, 2020The leaker claims the earbuds will be called the OnePlus Buds and feature a design that looks to be "inspired" by Apple's AirPods. While the design of the charging case appears to be slightly different, the earbuds themselves seem to be quite similar to OPPO's AirPods ...

One UISamsung Galaxy S20$800 at SamsungProsDesigned around one-handed useAmple customization toolsKids and Easy ModeBlue light filterEndless features to play withConsCan feel a little overwhelming at timesDesign might be too cartoony for someSamsung's software has changed and evolved a lot over the years, with the most recent iteration taking the shape of One UI. One UI has a distinct appearance, which you may love or hate compared to the stock-like design of OxygenOS. It's also loaded with feature after feature, making it one of the most capable Android experiences on the market. Things can feel a bit overloaded at times, but there's no denying One UI's sheer utility.OxygenOSOnePlus 8From $699 at OnePlusProsClean, simple UITons of customization optionsIncredibly smooth performanceAlert sliderReading, Zen, and Fnatic ModeConsHasn't received a significant UI update in a whileOnePlus is slow to release new featuresSome people mi...

(And also the most subjective).All of us at AC recently got together for a fun roundtable talking about features in a phone that we think are the most important.Out of all the features that were mentioned, "camera" stuck out as the thing that was brought up the most — and rightfully so. It's a hugely important feature, as our phone is often the only tool we have to preserve family gatherings, sleepy pets, and jaw-dropping sunrises.Cameras also happen to be one of those features we talk about quite frequently when a new phone comes out. It's a spec that we can judge and compare next to something else, just like we do for so many other aspects of a device. The same goes for the processor, display, RAM, storage, and battery.All of those things play a massive role in how a phone performs, but for me personally, there's something that stands above all of that. Something that's even more impactful in deciding which phones I'm interested in — software.Whenever you do anythin...

Memorial Day is here, and it's one of the biggest holidays of the year if you're looking for deals. It's an especially great time to look for 4K TVs. It's the perfect time in the yearly rotation for TVs because new models have been out long enough that retailers are eager to get rid of the previous year models, and this is also long enough for some of the new models to drop from those high-end MSRP prices.We're not just looking at TVs, either. Check out all of the best Memorial Day sales. When it comes to TVs, though, you'll find representation from every possible brand name including Samsung, LG, TCL with those awesome Roku TVs, and more. Pick you brand, pick your size, and pick your price. You'll find the TV for you whether you want a small budget set for your kids' room or a 60-inch behemoth loaded with a robust smart platform for the living room.Best Buy TV Deals:Check out all the best Best Buy TV deals including the best TVs under $300, the best sales on TVs just for the hol...

The phone lacks mmWave 5G support.What you need to knowSony has priced the Xperia 1 II 5G at $1,199 in the U.S.Pre-orders for the flagship phone will start on June 1. Consumers who pre-order the Xperia 1 II by June 28 will receive a pair of Sony WF-1000XM3 noise-canceling earbuds for free. Sony's first 5G-enabled flagship phone, the Xperia 1 II, will go on sale in the U.S. starting July 24. The tech giant has announced that pre-orders for the phone will start on June 1 (via The Verge) for a whopping $1,199.Those who pre-order the Xperia 1 II by June 28 will get a free pair of the company's WF-1000XM3 noise-canceling earbuds worth $230. It will be compatible with Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, MetroPCS, and Cricket networks. Unlike the European version of the phone, however, the Xperia 1 II will be 4G only in the U.S. A version of the Xperia 1 II called the "Xperia Pro" with mmWave 5G support is currently in the works for professionals, but Sony hasn't confirmed a release da...

This is an ingenious way to address issues with gestures overlapping.It's no secret that people have frustrations with Android 10's gesture navigation, particularly the back gesture — and phones with curved screen edges have only exacerbated the problem. Apps that rely on slide-in drawers can be really tough to use, and when that's a core part of the interface it can slow you down dramatically.But this week, I received a much-needed ray of hope for this system in the form of an app update. Slack, which previously had one of the worst collisions with gestures and curved screens, has redesigned its app to address both — and it's a wonderful change that every Android app developer needs to study and implement. Android 10's gestures don't have to be frustrating — we just need fresh app designs.Slack used to, like many apps, rely on a slide-in drawer for switching contexts inside the app. In the case of Slack, it was to change between channels, groups, threads and messa...

Stay connected, stay safe.Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous things you can do while behind the wheel. It puts you and everyone else on the road at risk, and while it should go without saying, is obviously something we don't condone.That said, there are times when you need to stay connected even when in your car. Whether you're following turn-by-turn navigation, making a hands-free phone call, or controlling your music while on a long road trip, having a device to do all of these things is a must.Google is aware of that, and that's why it created Android Auto. Android Auto is software that's available on your phone and in your car, and it gives you a way to do all of the things mentioned above as safely as possible. Ready to learn more? Keep on reading!Here are the basicsAndroid Auto is on your phoneIt's also in your carThe Assistant is hereThere are a bunch of appsA new phone UI is comingAuto upgradeSony XAVAX3000$300 at Best BuyElevate your A...

No major surprises.What you need to knowThe first CAD-based renders showing the Galaxy Note 20 Plus have surfaced.Samsung's upcoming flagship phone will apparently have a 6.9-inch Infinity-O display and a massive camera module on the back. Just like its predecessor, the Galaxy Note 20 Plus will not include a 3.5mm headphone jack.Last week, tech accessories store Pigtou posted alleged CAD-based renders of the Galaxy Note 20, in collaboration with tech leaker xleaks7. Pigtou has now joined hands with reliable leaker @OnLeaks to publish the first renders of the Galaxy Note 20 Plus, which are claimed to be based on leaked CAD drawings.The renders reveal a 6.9-inch curved display with a tiny hole-punch cutout at the top for the selfie camera. On the back of the phone, we find a massive camera module that houses a total of four sensors. While three of the sensors are laid out vertically, the fourth module is positioned below the LED flash. Even though it isn't expected to offer...

Realme is setting its sights squarely on Xiaomi's Mi TV 4A series with the launch of its first TV.Realme launched its first phone two years ago, and in that time the manufacturer managed to carve out a niche for itself in India. Realme consistently undercut Xiaomi in the entry-level and budget segments, allowing the brand to gain a sizable market share in the country in a short period of time.Realme is now looking beyond phones as it tries to build on its momentum in the country. The brand has unveiled its first TV in India, dubbed the Realme Smart TV. The smart TV segment in the country has gotten a lot of attention over the last two years following the introduction of Xiaomi's Mi TV series. To put it mildly, Xiaomi reinvented the smart TV category by offering TVs with great value for money.And that is the strategy Realme is emulating with its first smart TV. The Realme Smart TV is available in 32-inch and 43-inch options, and the brand is targeting the budget TV segment with ...

The Realme Watch is now official in India, offering a vast array of features for just ₹3,999 ($52).Realme made its foray into wearables with the Realme Band earlier this year, and now the brand is debuting its first full-fledged smartwatch. The Realme Watch is a budget smartwatch that retails for just ₹3,999 ($52) in India, offering features like real-time heart monitoring and blood oxygen saturation levels.The Realme Watch has a 1.4-inch LCD panel with a resolution of 320 x 320, translating to a pixel density of 323PPI. Realme says the smartwatch has a maximum brightness of 380 nits in auto mode, with the panel also offering 2.5D Gorilla Glass 3 protection against scratches. Oh, and there's a Realme logo at the bottom of the screen.There's also IP68 dust and water resistance, and the smartwatch connects over Bluetooth 5.0 and works with Android's Smart Lock feature. There's no standalone GPS, but that's easily forgivable given the category the smartwatch is aimed at.Th...