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by Jerry Hildenbrand on (#51QAP)
Best answer: You need to know the Google credentials of the last person who used a phone to set it up again. If you forgot yours, there are some tools you can use that let Google help you recover things.Don't get locked out: Galaxy S20+ ($1200 at Samsung)Google and the company that made your phone have some tools in place to help prevent phone theft and protect your privacy when it comes to resetting your phone. Factory reset protection is set up so that you'll need to know your phone password or your Google account password before you can reset a device and use it as new.Do I need to know the old account information?In all recent versions of Android, once a phone has been tied to a Google account, you need to use the same account and password to "unlock" it if you reset it.It's called FRP (Factory Reset Protection), and it's done to make stolen phones less valuable. If you steal my phone, you can't unlock the screen to use it, and if you reset it through the phone recove...
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by Stephen Warwick on (#51Q5R)
Stop the world. I want to get off.What you need to knowSeveral reports state that UK broadband engineers have been targeted and threatened by members of the public due to a 5G coronavirus conspiracy theory.There are also reports confirmed of UK 5G masts being burned, and the practice is being encouraged on Facebook.This might be one of the worst things I have ever heard. Several reports from the UK have confirmed that broadband engineers are facing verbal and physical threats thanks to a conspiracy theory that the COVID-19 pandemic has been caused by 5G technology. It has also been reported and confirmed that a small Facebook movement is actively encouraging, and carrying out, the burning of 5G masts across the country. Sit down. We need to talk.First up, the reports. Yesterday, The Guardian published the following report: Telecoms engineers are facing verbal and physical threats during the lockdown, as baseless conspiracy theories linking coronavirus to the roll-out ...
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by Jerry Hildenbrand on (#51Q5T)
How do I add a second Google account on my device? Here is how.Instead of trying to keep all of your Google accounts in order on multiple devices, why not have everything on one device? Android has made it easy to add accounts, sync accounts, and remove accounts — here's how.How to add a second Google account to your Android phoneHow to remove a Google account from your Android phoneHow to add a second Google account to your Samsung phoneHow to add a second Google account to your Android phoneLaunch Settings from your Home screen, the app drawer, or the Notification Shade.Swipe up in the Settings menu to scroll down.Tap Accounts.Tap Add Account.Tap Google.Type in your email address in the provided field. You can also create a new account to be added.Tap Next.Type your password.Tap Next.How to remove a Google account from your Android phoneSwipe down from the top of the Home screen.Tap the Settings button. It looks like a gear.Swipe up in the Set...
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by Jerry Hildenbrand on (#51Q18)
Google has an excellent solution to let developers build camera apps that will work on every phone but it's not going to work because manufacturers need to support it.There is a reason a lot of people think Android phones have bad cameras. That's not true of course, and there are several phones from companies like Samsung or Huawei that disprove it, as well as Google's own Pixel series of phones. But there is a tiny nugget there that can't be denied, and that's when you look to third-party camera apps.As good as the camera app that comes with your phone is, there are always reasons why people look to apps that use their own camera mode. Maybe you like to use Instagram and use its built-in camera and filters. Or maybe you want control over things like exposure or shutter speed and your phone's camera app doesn't give it to you. Third-party apps are there to fill the void and give us what we want. Your phone came with a great camera app but there are others you probably want to...
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by Stephen Warwick on (#51Q19)
The UK company Imagination fears intellectual property assets could be lost...What you need to knowApple and Samsung chip designer Imagination has scheduled an emergency board meeting next week.That's over fears that a state-controller Chinese investor is trying to seize control of the company. Imagination makes GPUs for Apple and Samsung, and its designs feature in 30% of the world's smartphones.Apple and Samsung chip designer Imagination has scheduled an emergency board meeting after it emerged that a state-controlled Chinese investor is trying to seize the company.According to a report from Sky News: A state-controlled Chinese investor is trying to seize control of Imagination Technologies Group, the British chip designer – sparking fears that its prized intellectual property assets could disappear from the UK. Sky News can exclusively reveal that Imagination, which was taken over in 2017 in a £550m deal, has scheduled an emergency board meeting next week t...
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by Jared DiPane on (#51PVF)
It may have taken its sweet time getting here, but the long-anticipated Disney Plus (or Disney+) streaming service is now available in a bunch of countries — soon to be fifteen! It's made its way in a space that's already pretty crowded, standing out thanks to its exclusive family-friendly offerings from not only from Disney itself, but also Star Wars, Marvel, National Geographic, and 20th Century Studios.The catalog size may not directly compete with services like Netflix and Prime Video quite yet, but the number of Disney+ original shows that are available makes it worth checking out.Now, on to the key bit of information here: how much does Disney+ cost? Well, there are several different plan options for Disney+ that you can sign up for, making the price for Disney+ range from $6.99 to $12.99 per month. The lower cost is the best Disney+ price you'll get right now — with one big exception — while the more expensive is a pretty sweet Disney+ bundle that you'll need to chec...
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by Harish Jonnalagadda on (#51PRH)
Here's what you need to know about Disney+ in India.Five months after its launch in the U.S., Disney+ has made its debut in India. Content from the streaming service has been integrated into Disney-owned Hotstar's library, and that's a smart move because Hotstar already has over 300 million users in the country.Disney+ is binging its original shows like The Mandalorian, and offering titles from the entire Star Wars franchise, Pixar and Marvel content, and so much more. Most of the Disney+ content is available in regional languages, with users able to stream in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil.Here's everything you need to know about Disney+ Hotstar in India.How much does Disney+ Hotstar cost?With the integration of Disney+ content, Hotstar has been rebranded to Disney+ Hotstar. There is a free tier that includes ads, and two paid plans. The Disney+ Hotstar VIP plan costs ₹399 ($5.30) a year, and it includes access to selected TV series and movies from Disney's back catalog — in...
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by Jared DiPane on (#51PRK)
In this new decade, you're only going to spend yet more of your life online. You can try and avoid it but, honestly, it's pretty much impossible to do. It's important that you have security and privacy at the front of your mind as you traverse the online world, especially with the amount of sensitive data we out on our devices and send via the internet. If you use public Wi-Fi networks while out and about, that's even more important.Best VPN Deals Available NowExpressVPN: 49% off + 3 free monthsIPVanish: $3.25 per monthNordVPN: Up to 1 year extra freePureVPN: $3.33 a monthPIA VPN: 2 months freeSurfshark: From 7 cents/dayMore Deals: $20 lifetime license & free optionsOdds are that you have heard of VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, before but may not have signed up for one just yet. There are some common misconceptions about VPNs, especially that they are super expensive, but that's not at all the case — especially if you know where to look for the best deals (h...
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by Anthony J Nash on (#51PRM)
Start collecting now!Fortnite Chapter 2 - Season 2 is officially out now, and one of the most surprising additions to the new season is that of Deadpool, Marvel's iconic hero. Initially spotted in the trailer for Chapter 2 - Season 2, it was revealed that players would be able to obtain a Deadpool skin for completing various challenges in this season's Battle Pass.After a couple of weeks of challenges, Deadpool is now officially in Fortnite, and available for players to earn. If you've already completed the rest of the weekly challenges, you'll have to do two final things in order to unlock him.That's right baby! Deadpool is in the game. Just need to complete his Challenges this week and voila, he's yours.Even antiheroes have to heed the call 😠pic.twitter.com/ARLR2fG8lx— Fortnite (@FortniteGame) April 3, 2020Head back to Deadpool's lair in the main menu of the game and access the computer, where you'll be tasked with finding Deadpool's two pistols. After finding the...
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by Asher Madan on (#51PKW)
New content incoming.What you need to knowCall of Duty: Modern Warfare is the latest entry in the massive first-person shooter franchise.The game is getting a new season on April 8. Season 3 should add new maps, cosmetics, and more. You can purchase Call of Duty: Modern Warfare for $60 on AmazonToday, Activision revealed that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare's next season, Season 3, begins on April 8. Aside from that, no details were provided. The promotional image is quite striking to say the least.Players should expect new weapons, characters, and much more. Hopefully, interesting maps will be added to the game too. Right now, everyone seems to be focused on Call of Duty: Warzone, the free-to-play Call of Duty battle royale experience.Season 3.4.8.20.#Warzone #ModernWarfare pic.twitter.com/UdjN4HjP5y— Call of Duty (@CallofDuty) April 3, 2020What do you want to see from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare - Season 3? Hopefully, some fan-favorite weapons, modes, and maps ...
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by Hayato Huseman on (#51PCZ)
Smartphones are capable of just about anything these days, but that can be overwhelming or just downright unnecessary for some. Not everybody needs a high-end camera or a huge screen in their pocket at all times, and you certainly shouldn't have to pay for features you'll never use. Whether you're longing for a more straightforward experience or just want the cheapest possible vessel for calls and texts, these are the flip phones that should be on your radar.Best overallNUU F4LStaff PickThe NUU F4L carefully toes the line between price and features, with 4GB of storage and 4G LTE connectivity. With that connection, you can make crystal-clear VoLTE calls, or even access Whatsapp and Facebook Lite. There are also two notification LEDs on the front that alert you of new messages and low battery.$80 at B&H$80 at NUU MobileBest for appsNokia 2720 Flip 4GJust like the NUU F4L, the Nokia 2720 has 4G support that allows you to connect to popular services like F...
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by Ara Wagoner on (#51PD1)
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 C330$280 at Lenovo$299 at AmazonLast year's Lenovo is still the best Chromebook to buy.This zippy little Chromebook can last 10 hours and won't weigh down your backpack during an all-day excursion.Lenovo Chromebook C330 FeaturesBright 11.6-inch touchscreenTrue 10-hour battery lifeExcellent performance for the price4GB RAM, 32-64GB storageBalanced weight and sizeBright, shimmery 2-in-1 designThe best Chromebook balances size with productivity, style with substance, and panache with a price. It's a Chromebook that anyo...
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by Muhammad Jarir Kanji on (#51PD2)
The Artists list is now automatically populated based on the songs in your library.What you need to knowGoogle is pushing out an update to the YouTube Music library.It now works a bit more like Google Play Music used to.Songs you add to your library will now have their artists automatically added to the Artists list.While a valiant effort by Google to take on the likes of Spotify, YouTube Music clearly needs a lot of work before it can truly hold its own against the incumbents in the streaming industry. It's been working toward that goal with blazing speed, though, adding new features all the time.But sometimes older is better. Case in point: the latest update to the organization of the library in YouTube Music (via Android Police). The Google Play Music app that succeeded it did a perfectly good job of organizing your library, and in the transition to YouTube Music, Google kind of mucked it up.So, it's taking a cue from its older product, and making the library a bit m...
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by Courtney Lynch on (#51PD3)
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...
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by Alex Smith on (#51PD4)
Practicing social distancing may have cancelled some of your plans over the next few weeks, but instead of sitting at home wasting your sudden wealth of free time, why not invest that time into learning something that can positively affect your life? Udemy has a myriad of courses taught by certified instructors who guide you step-by-step through learning new skills, so if you want to play a new instrument or figure out how to code, this is one of the best opportunities you'll ever have. How often does the world stop otherwise?Some of Udemy's most popular courses are focused on development for the web, smartphone apps, and video games, and right now you can even find a majority of them discounted in a limited time sale at Udemy's website. Whether you're paying a discounted rate or the full cost of the course, you'll be coming out ahead with the knowledge gained, as many of the classes at Udemy offer real world applications which could help you find a new job or make some money on the ...
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by Kelly Peirce on (#51PD6)
Best answer: Nope! PlayStation Plus is not necessary for streaming to Twitch. However, if you are considering streaming multiplayer games with your friends or playing games online with stream viewers, then you would want to pick up a Plus subscription. It is not needed for solo games.PlayStation streaming: PlayStation 4 Camera ($60 at Amazon)Support with Prime: Twitch Prime ($13/mo. at Amazon) Play with viewers: PlayStation Plus 3 Month Membership ($25 at Amazon)Streaming from your PS4 to TwitchStreaming gameplay to Twitch has been made simple. There is no need for PlayStation Plus unless you are looking to play with friends and viewers in online games. To start streaming on your PlayStation 4:Press the Share button on your controller.Then select Broadcast Gameplay. A menu will pop up giving you the option of where you'd like to stream to: Twitch or Ustream. Just connect your PlayStation and Twitch accounts and you are good to go!Connect with your viewersWhen you...
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by Zachary Boddy on (#51PD8)
It might be time to switch.What you need to knowMinecraft is available on a ton of different platforms, including older systems like the Playstation 3.People on these platforms still enjoy Minecraft, but these older systems are being left behind.This is the last month players can convert their maps from the Playstation 3 and Playstation Vita to the Playstation 4.This will let you access all your old maps and worlds, when you do decide to make the switch.There are still a sizeable group of people playing on the aging Playstation 3 or even the Playstation Vita, and haven't been able to or felt the need to upgrade. There's still a lot of fun to be had on these last-generation platforms, but it's inevitable that they're being left behind. Minecraft has long since moved forward with the Bedrock Edition, which is the modern version of the game available on pretty much any modern platform, including the Playstation 4. Time is running out for Minecraft players to save all their wo...
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by Muhammad Jarir Kanji on (#51P3R)
The decision boiled down to a lack of satisfactory performance on the part of the Exynos 990.What you need to knowEven Galaxy S20s sold in Samsung's home country sport a Snapdragon 865, instead of the company's own Exynos 990.This departure from tradition was a surprise and has apparently left the Exynos team feeling 'humiliated.'A recent petition, too, has asked Samsung to stop selling "inferior Exynos phones."If you're a fan of sports, you know that there's nothing more embarrassing for a team than to lose a game despite having the home advantage. Well, that's probably how Samsung's LSI division, which designs the company's Exynos chips, is feeling right about now.In a surprise departure from tradition, even the South Korean variants of the Galaxy S20 series this year are powered by a Snapdragon 865, instead of the company's homebrewed Exynos 990. This, according to Korean Economic Daily, came as a surprise to many and has reportedly left the LSI division feeling "humil...
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by Jennifer Locke on (#51P3S)
Sony is gearing up to release the PS5, its most ambitious console to date.While development on the PlayStation 5 has likely been going on for years, Sony has officially confirmed that it's in the works and is on its way for the holidays. Here's everything we know about the PS5 so far.PS5 designPS5 specsPS5 backward compatibilityPS5 next-gen DualShock controllerPS5 user interfacePS5 virtual reality supportOfficially named the PlayStation 5PS5 launch gamesPS5 costThe PS5 may be revealed soonThe PS5 releases Holiday 2020PlayStation 5 What form will it take?According to a report from the Financial Times, sources familiar with Sony's plans have stated that the PlayStation 5 "might not represent a major departure from the PS4, and that the fundamental architecture would be similar." Mark Cerny, lead system architect of the console, went on to confirm as much in his interview with Wired.This indicates that Sony is not working on a streaming-only platform, though the ...
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by Joe Maring on (#51P3T)
Samsung's new Notes are here — let's talk about them.In the second half of each year, Samsung launches a new entry in its Galaxy Note series to showcase the very best it has to offer in smartphones. For 2019, Samsung used the Galaxy Note 10, Note 10+, and Note 10+ 5G to do just that.2019 was the first year Samsung's ever launched three Notes at the same time, and along with that, the company also made some controversial decisions when it comes to legacy Note features. Even so, these handsets stand out as some of the best smartphones Samsung has to offer right now (even with the Galaxy S20 now available).Eager to learn more? Keep on reading.Check out our reviewThe Note 10 has impressive specsOne UI 2.1 is available nowWe've compared it to other phonesThere are three different modelsIt's true — Samsung got rid of the headphone jackSamsung upgraded its charging speedsHere's what's new with the S PenTake a look at the Note 10's colors ðŸ˜You can buy the phone right...
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by Android Central on (#51P3V)
Countless concerts, festivals, and other musical gatherings have been canceled worldwide due to the threat of COVID-19, leaving fans and creators craving something to scratch that musical itch. If you're stuck at home, there is no better time to hone your own musicality and pick up a new technical skill. While social distancing has the pros taking some time off from performing, why not take advantage and become a pro yourself?Forget about recording your song on a smartphone and take your sound to the next level with The Premium DJing & Music Production Bootcamp Ft. Ableton + Logic Pro X; nine courses loaded with comprehensive instruction on songwriting, recording, production, and distribution using professional-grade software. With lifetime access to 56 hours of Logic Pro X and Ableton Live 10 training, you can become a better musician at your own pace and feel confident that you are learning industry-standard practices along the way.If you are unfamiliar, Logic Pro X and Ablet...
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by Joe Maring on (#51P3X)
Fitbit's Versa family of smartwatches is one of the best out there for fitness enthusiasts. Whether you have a Versa, Versa Lite, or Versa 2, all three of the wearables use the same proprietary watch band system. A lot of excellent first and third-party bands have been created since the original Versa's inception, and this is a complete collection of our favorite ones.Can't go wrongWepro BandStaff pickWant to keep things as simple as possible? Pick up this silicone band from Wepro. The band itself is pretty basic, featuring a premium silicone material that's lightweight and sweat resistant. The stainless steel buckle is easy to use, there are Small and Large sizes, and a metric ton of colors to choose from.$5 at AmazonAffordable fabricKIMILAR Woven Fabric BandFor around the same price as what Wepro's offering, you can get the KIMILAR Woven Fabric Band. The fabric material is classier than silicone and is a nicer choice for wearing your Versa to the office or...
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by Joe Maring on (#51P3Z)
Samsung's 10th year of Galaxy flagships is something to behold.Every year, Samsung kicks off the year with its Galaxy S devices. These serve as a showcase of the very best that the company has to offer, and in 2019, we were treated to a total of three new devices with the Galaxy S10, S10+, and S10e.Whether you're looking for the latest news, want to know how the phones compare to other gadgets, need help finding a good case, or anything else in between, you're in the right place.First, start with the reviewThere are three phones this yearOne UI 2.1 is rolling out nowShould you upgrade from an older Galaxy?Let's compare the S10 to other phonesIf it's specs you need...There's a 5G version, tooThere are some amazing colorsHow much do they cost?Get the accessories you need for your Galaxy S10Don't forget about the Galaxy S10 LiteThe Galaxy S20 is hereGet More Galaxy S10Samsung Galaxy S10 ...
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by Michael Allison on (#51P40)
Google continues to help users and governments amid the coronavirus pandemic.What you need to knowGoogle is creating what it calls COVID-19 Community Mobility Reports, providing data into how movement trends have changed in response to the pandemic.The initial reports will cover over 131 countries, with additional countries being added as time goes by.Users can opt-out by disabling location history tracking in their Google account.Google continues to contribute to coronavirus response efforts by leveraging some of its most honed tools — tracking and data collection. The company will now be using its technology to deliver new "COVID-19 Community Mobility Reports." These reports will show just how responsive the populace is to measures aimed at "flattening the curve" by quantifying how often people move around. It'll be released globally in over 131 countries and regions at the moment, with Google working in getting data down to the regional level in the coming weeks.Go...
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by Alex Smith on (#51P41)
Netflix and Hulu and all the other recent streaming platforms may have their own shows you can't watch anywhere else, but HBO has been home to the best exclusive shows for decades now. With iconic series like The Wire, The Sopranos, and True Blood, the premium channel made a name for itself not just by showing popular and classic films, but also by premiering shows that are truly unlike any others that have come before them.Today, with social distancing on the rise and everyone stuck inside their homes, HBO is giving back to the public by unlocking 500 hours of its premium content, from television series to movies and documentaries. Beginning April 3, all of the content below can be streamed for free via HBO Now or HBO Go in the United States without an account. Simply head to the website you wish to use and start watching.You won't find all of HBO's content for free, and notably, recent series like Westworld, Game of Thrones, Euphoria, and The Leftovers are not included in the o...
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by Michael L Hicks on (#51NT2)
If you're tired of questing solo in your Oculus Quest, fear not. There are plenty of online multiplayer experiences, as well as party multiplayer with friends and family in the room, to enjoy. This list will focus primarily on the first option, with the best games for connecting and competing with your fellow gamers virtually, but there's couple couch co-op options thrown in as well. Try these Quest VR titles for creating lasting friendships and bitter rivalries.★ Featured FavoriteRec RoomRec Room beats out other VR chatrooms with a perfect blend of social features and compelling gameplay. Cross-play enables you to play with (or make) friends on any headset, and even non-VR friends in Screen Mode on Windows or PS4 can meet up. Despite Quest hardware limitations disabling a few fun modes like Rec Royale, this free port offers access to the vast majority of minigames, user-created rooms, and quests, making Rec Room endlessly replayable. You may run into rude people or t...
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by Nicholas Sutrich on (#51NT4)
Physically canceled but digitally available. This time free and for all audiences.What you need to knowAmazon and SXSW will be hosting the 10-day SXSW Film Festival online.The event is scheduled to take place sometime near the end of April, with a solid date to be announced at a later time.This event will be free for anyone in the U.S. with an Amazon account and does not require a paid Amazon Prime membership.When the March SXSW Film Festival was canceled earlier this month, event-goers and filmmakers were, understandably, crushed. The annual event gives fledgling filmmakers an important platform to present their films for the opportunity to get a wider distribution, including awards and accolades. Big names like Jon Favreau, Joss Whedon, Sarah Green, and Amy Schumer tend to show up, so it's a big deal to get your film out there for these folks to see. Imagine filmmakers surprise, then, when Amazon announced that it would be hosting the 2020 SXSW Film Festival online for fr...
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by Alex Smith on (#51NT6)
We may all be stuck inside and social distancing this month, but Pixar's newest film Onward is taking audiences on the quest of a lifetime right from the comfort of the living room couch. This Disney Pixar collaboration is one of a handful of films which was released early to digital retailers last month around the time theaters were closed across the world, and starting today, it's available to watch on Disney's new streaming service Disney+ in select countries.If you're not a Disney+ member already, we'll get into how to score a free trial of the service below, as well as other ways to watch the film no matter where you're located.Disney Plus:Can't beat freeDisney+ Free TrialSee at Disney+All your Disney favorites and so much moreLet's pretend you don't already know you'll love Disney+. You can score a free trial right now to watch Onward, check out the service, and see if it's worth becoming a full-time subscriber. Just head to Disney+ and click 'Start Free Trial' ...
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by Jeramy Johnson on (#51NT8)
There's never been a better time to escape into a good book.Okay, a show of hands. Who here is going stir-crazy being cooped up at home right now? Yeah, I suspected as much.Ordinarily, when I need to relax my mind, ease my anxieties, and just chill out, there's no better activity for me to partake in than to dive head-first into a good book. With all of the doom and gloom surrounding us these days, I find this strategy to be particularly valuable for maintaining my sanity and helping me to retain some semblance of optimism and perspective.Whenever I need to take a break throughout the day while working from home, I am increasingly opting to pick up my Amazon Kindle to read a chapter or two, rather than allowing myself to get sucked down the rabbit hole of Twitter posts and incessant news updates. Here's a quick list of what I've been reading lately, in case it helps you find a good, distracting book of your own.What Unites Us: Reflections on PatriotismBy: Dan RatherI sw...
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by Babu Mohan on (#51NTA)
The affordable fitness band comes in a total of four colors – Black, Red, Blue, and Brown.What you need to knowXiaomi's Redmi sub-brand today launched its first fitness tracker.The Redmi Band features a 1.08-inch color display and is claimed to offer up to 14 days of battery life on a single charge. It has been priced at just 99 yuan ($14) in China.Xiaomi is currently one of the leading players in the global wearables market, thanks to its Mi Band line of affordable fitness trackers. Its Redmi sub-brand has now entered the wearables market (via MyDrivers) with its first fitness tracker, called the Redmi Band.The Redmi Band sports a 1.08-inch color display and offers over 70 watch faces to choose from. Placed below the display is a capacitive button for UI navigation. Redmi's first fitness tracker also offers sleep tracking, sedentary reminders, multiple sports modes, heart rate monitoring, and a built-in USB-A connector for direct charging. While the Redmi Band doesn't...
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by Adam Oram on (#51NTC)
You might already have a bunch of Echo smart speakers dotted (pun intended) around your home, but have you got an Alexa device with a screen yet? The versatile Echo Show 5 smart display give you access to all of Alexa's skills and also add the ability for your smart assistant to show you things. That's exceptionally useful in a bunch of situations from looking at a recipe in the kitchen to seeing the weather forecast, making a video call with a relative, and more.Right now, QVC is discounting the Echo Show 5 to just $59.96. That's $30 off its regular price and one of its best prices to date. What's even better, though, is that QVC is running a promotion that takes a further $10 when you use coupon code FRIENDS during checkout. If this is your first QVC order, you can use that code to save $40 total. Free standard shipping is included, too.Amazon's Echo Show 5 is equipped with a compact 5.5-inch smart display that can show you the weather, news reports, movie trailers, and more, o...
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by Nicole Johnston on (#51NTE)
Best answer: If you've found yourself working from home, you'll probably tap out your free Google Drive storage space pretty quickly. Even if you're a single employee of a home-based business, a student, or have a hobby, such as photography, you're going to need a lot of space. That's why it's a good idea to invest in some extra storage space and give yourself a safe buffer. Prices vary depending on your country.Recommended: Google Drive 100GB ($20/year at Google)Also consider: Google Drive 2TB ($100/year at Google)What you get with a basic accountA free Google Drive account gives you 15GB of online storage space. This is shared among all Google's programs including Gmail, Docs and Photos. This means all the messages in your Gmail inbox, plus the files saved in Drive folders, chip away from that 15GB of space. For a lot of people, this is plenty of space to keep a few personal documents, photos, and email messages saved for later, but there are times when more space is defin...
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by Ara Wagoner on (#51NTG)
Chromebooks are only as good as their system, and Chrome OS could always use a few upgrades.Chromebooks are great, lightweight computers that are great not just for kids, they're great for more folks, whether you just want to browse Facebook or work full-time on one. A huge part of that success is that Chrome OS runs so well even on mid-range and budget hardware, allowing us to get a great experience out of a $300 touchscreen 2-in-1 like the Lenovo C340-11 as well as out of powerhouses like the Pixelbook Go and the ASUS Chromebook C434.Chrome OS started off as a pretty stripped down system, but it's grown and expanded in the last few years, making Android apps standard across the board and bringing Linux apps to more and more models. The experience has been continually refined for tablets and touchscreen input, but there's always more that needs to be done. From an expansion of the Chromebook/Android pairing that gave us Smart Lock to some pie-in-the-sky desires to make Chromeboo...
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by Nicole Johnston on (#51NG9)
Best OverallGoogle DriveFree at GooglePros15 GB storage spaceAccess to Google One appsSyncs with Google Hangouts MeetsConsShared storageSlower syncingGoogle Drive includes access to the most essential programs like Docs and Gmail. Its free account gives you 15GB of shared storage space with options to increase storage to 30TB.Fast SyncingDropboxFree at DropboxProsBlock syncingReferral programSyncs with ZoomConsLess storage spaceNo native spreadsheet supportDropbox includes 2GB of space with its free account with options to increase storage to 3TB. It uses block-syncing to update changes quickly for you and collaborators.While Dropbox was the original online storage unit, Google Drive has quickly caught up, offering more space with its free accounts, access to file creation tools that Dropbox just doesn't have and more upgrade options for additional storage. Also, because Drive is part of your Google account, it's easy to col...
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by Adam Oram on (#51NGB)
VPNs usage has skyrocketed in our current social distancing reality, bu that doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune for some added security and privacy protections. In fact, NordVPN is offering a timely deal on its 3-year VPN plan taking 70% off its regular price. On top of that, you'll also score an additional month or year for free. So, if you're feeling lucky, check out the deal and see what freebie you get.Billed upfront at $126, you're saving $305 on the 3-year plan versus the regular month-to-month cost for that period of time. That drops the equivalent monthly cost down to just $3.49 making this one of the best VPN deals out there. If you get the free year on top, that monthly price is even less. Even if you get a free month it's better than nothing.You've probably heard a lot about VPNs of late, and for good reason. They enable you to keep your private information private, feel safe in the knowledge that your device's security is intact, and get around geographical barr...
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by Andrew Martonik on (#51NGC)
Google's strengths, and weaknesses, remain after several months.It's been nearly 6 months since I got my Google Pixel 4 XL and reviewed it. Time flies — there are new high-end phones on the market, several software updates have tweaked and added new features, and speculation about the Pixel 4a (and even the Pixel 5) is well under way.But I haven't forgotten about the Pixel 4 XL in light of the shiny new phones and speculation about replacements. I've still been using it, in fact. So how has the Pixel 4 XL held up to 6 months of use? Here are my experiences.At a glanceGoogle Pixel 4 XL Bottom line: 6 months on, Google's strengths remain. Its simple hardware is still appreciated and has held up to use. The software is still useful and performs well, with a couple of big feature updates it keeps improving, and face unlock ...
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by Babu Mohan on (#51NGE)
The feature adds the recognizable styles of famous artistes to your photos.What you need to knowGoogle's Arts & Culture app now lets users apply characteristics of famous painting to their images with the new "Art Transfer" feature.The feature uses an algorithmic model created by Google AI to recreate photos. All the processing is done on your device. Google has updated its Arts & Culture app with an all-new feature that lets you capture a photo and transform it with classic artworks. The new feature, called Art Transfer, can be accessed by opening the Camera menu in the bottom bar of the app and selecting 'Art Transfer.'Once you have taken or uploaded a photo from your device, you will be able to choose from several well-known masterpieces to "transfer" that style onto the image. Along with still photos, GIF images can also be selected. You can even choose the part of the image you want the art style applied by tapping on the scissors icon. Some of the artists...
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by Nicole Johnston on (#51NGF)
Best answer: With a basic, free Dropbox account you get 2GB of online storage space. This isn't a whole lot, especially if you find yourself working from home and needing to save and keep handy a lot of important documents, projects, images, and folders. Buying additional space will help you organize all your files without worrying about them getting lost, or bogging down your computer from saving files locally on your hard drive.2TB of storage: Dropbox Plus ($120/year at Dropbox)3TB of storage: Dropbox Professional ($199/year at Dropbox)What you get with a free Dropbox accountWith a Dropbox Basic account, you get 2GB of space for free. You can upload and save documents, spreadsheets, and slide presentations created from other programs, such as Microsoft Office or Google One, or you can tap into Paper, Dropbox's own word processor. With Paper you can use the included tools to embed images or create tables. As with other document creating programs, Paper allows you to format ...
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by Adam Oram on (#51NAX)
You probably already have some kind of Amazon Echo device in your home, be it the Echo Dot, Echo Input, or even the full-sized Echo, and while chatting with Alexa is fun and all, if you don't have an Amazon Music Unlimited subscription, you're seriously missing out on one of the best features the devices have to offer: music streaming. Amazon usually offers just one free month for those looking to try out Music Unlimited, but new members can score three months of service absolutely free for a limited time.Tens of millions of songs, exclusive Alexa voice features and programs, unlimited skips and ad-free programming are just a few of Amazon Music Unlimited's features. You can even download songs for offline listening. Best of all, the Amazon Music application is available to download on your computer, smartphone, tablet, and even some smart TVs so you can listen wherever, whenever.The service is affordably priced at $7.99 monthly for Amazon Prime members or $9.99 for non-members, ...
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by Babu Mohan on (#51NAY)
Data speeds will be throttled down to 256 Kbps after the 30GB limit is reached.What you need to knowGoogle is temporarily increasing limits for full-speed data to 30GB per user in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.In addition to increasing data limits, Google Fi is also temporarily extending the payment grace period to 60 days for its customers. Google Fi's Flexible plans normally offer 15GB of data per month at full speeds, while Unlimited plans offer 22GB.As the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread across the globe, access to fast internet is now more crucial than ever before. To help its customers stay connected during this time, Google Fi has implemented two major policy changes.Since people across the U.S. are using more data during this time, Google Fi is temporarily increasing limits for full-speed data to 30GB per user for both Flexible and Unlimited plans. Google Fi's Flexible plans normally offer only 15GB of full-speed data, while Unlimited plans offer up t...
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by Harish Jonnalagadda on (#51N5X)
The coronavirus has spread to 181 countries around the world, and it shows no signs of abating. The pandemic has proved particularly devastating in recent weeks, with total confirmed cases crossing one million and fatalities of over 53,000 globally.The virus has effectively shut down all sporting leagues around the world, major gatherings including tech events and music festivals, and closed down restaurants and malls. It also put a major dent in the airline industry, and is causing panic-buying across the globe, leading to severe food shortages.The coronavirus has also had a huge impact on the tech industry, affecting the global supply chain and causing interminable product delays. Here's the latest on the coronavirus and how it's affecting not only the tech industry, but also the world at large.April 3, 2020: COVID-19 has infected one million people globallyCOVID-19 hit an unwelcome milestone, as global cases ticked over the one million mark. With a staggering 80,600 new c...
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by Harish Jonnalagadda on (#51N5Y)
We've rounded up the best games, audiobooks, ebooks, movies, and sports content that's free right now.With everything that has been going around the world in recent weeks, we all need an outlet. Thankfully, there are dozens of free resources that provide a distraction from the chaos.We've rounded up all the games, movies, audiobooks, e-books, and learning resources that are free right now. Whether you're looking to unwind with an audiobook or shoot some zombies in an online first-person shooter, you'll find something of interest in the list below.All the games that are free right nowMonument Valley 2: One of the best mobile games is free right now. Monument Valley 2 features gorgeous visuals, intricate puzzles, and a soothing soundtrack. The puzzle game usually costs $5, so grab it for free right now. Monument Valley 2 on the Play Store. Mini Metro: What's it like to build a subway system from scratch? That's what you're tasked with in Mini Metro. There are 20 real-world ci...
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by Jared DiPane on (#51N5Z)
On February 1, 2020 Netflix brought the first round of Studio Ghibli films to its service. In total there will be 21 films that come to the popular streaming platform, but they will come in three phases (all of which have now completed). The films will be made available globally through a distribution partner Wild Bunch International, though this rollout will exclude some big markets.For those not familiar, Studio Ghibli was founded back in 1985 by the directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, along with the producer Toshio Suzuki. It is a Japanese animation film studio that has produced feature films, shorts, TV commercials, and even worked with video game studios on visual elements for games. Six of the studio's films are among the 10 highest-grossing anime films from Japan, and the company has many other accolades. It's most successful title was Spirited Away, which made over $360 million worldwide and was voted the fourth-best film of the 21st century as picked by 177 film crit...
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by Jeramy Johnson on (#51MWQ)
The Nest Hub Max, and other smart screen speakers with Google Assistant, are fantastic devices for the work from home lifestyle we increasingly find ourselves in. They can show you your day at a glance, give you news information and updates, and allow you to make voice and video calls with friends and family. With Google Duo set up, you can have a video chat with anyone who has a similar smart device or has the Google Duo app installed on their phone or tablet. You can even use your smart screen to call someone on Duo who is using the app in a browser!How to set up Google DuoOpen the Google Home app onto your smartphone.Find your device (like the Nest Hub Max) and tap on the device.Tap on the Settings icon in the top right.Scroll down and tap on Duo video calling under the More section.Follow the instructions and enable Duo calling.Now you're set up and ready to make or receive Google Duo calls from any device that supports the service (and there are a lot of them)....
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by Simon Sage on (#51MWS)
You might be working from home, but that doesn't mean you have all the time in the world to clean floors. Pick up the Eufy RoboVac 15C MAX with $50 in savings savings while supplies last!There are plenty of automatic vacuum cleaners out there, but the RoboVac 15C MAX is one of our favorites for a few reasons. The big thing is its sensor array. The RoboVac 15C MAX has over 10 infrared arrays constantly scanning for ledges and obstacles. This means it can avoid sucking up something it shouldn't, or falling down the stairs, or otherwise getting stuck during operation.This thing is smart. It's got Wi-Fi built in and support for voice assistants, so with a single booming command, you can get this little underling to start working. It includes a physical remote control, but really, you wanna use the mobile app for all of your settings management and setting cleaning schedules.Conveniently cleanRoboVac 15C MAXSee at EufySuper-smartWith a robust infrared sensor array to detec...
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by Jared DiPane on (#51MWV)
California's most famous family is back and we'll show you how to watch all the drama onlineIf you're looking for something to keep you entertained while stuck at home, then you're in luck as one of the longest running reality TV shows, Keeping Up With The Kardashians (KUWTK), is back for its 18th season and we'll show you exactly how to watch every episode online or on TV from anywhere in the world.Whether you're a long-time fan or haven't even watched the show, you've probably heard about the drama and antics of the Kardashian family. Back in 2007, Kourtney, Kim and Khloé Kardashian along with their half-sisters Kendall and Kylie Jenner first appeared in their own reality TV show. The show, which was developed by executive producer Ryan Seacrest, has kept fans of the family entertained for years now and Season 18 looks to be packed with the drama and conflict you've come to expect from the Kardashians.Season 17 of KUWTK ended with Kourtney Kardashian's decision to step back ...
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by Asher Madan on (#51MWW)
Rogue Legacy 2 is real!What you need to knowRogue Legacy is a popular roguelike that came out many years ago.Developer Cellar Door Games is working on a sequel. Rogue Legacy 2 was just revealed. It'll probably come to all platforms eventually, just like the prequel. Rogue Legacy is a popular roguelike that places you in the shoes of your descendants with unique traits. Some mutations might be advantageous, but others may end up requiring a wipe. The goal is to explore a castle and reach the final boss. However, you'll need multiple generations to achieve this because you earn currency through each run, and can unlock permanent upgrades.Rogue Legacy is available on every platform, including Xbox One and iOS, but we just got word that a sequel was in development. Hopefully, it'll refine some of the mechanics and be just as addictive as the original. Developer Cellar Door Games revealed its existence on Twitter.Your Legacy continues#RogueLegacy2 pic.twitter.com/uUGeLE9T...
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by Asher Madan on (#51MMY)
There are a lot of changes coming.What you need to knowElite: Dangerous is a popular space simulator by Frontier Developments.The game is getting a massive expansion soon. The developer detailed a number of changes coming with the package. The base model Fleet Carrier costs 5 billion credits. Elite: Dangerous is an excellent space simulator that features a massive open galaxy and plenty of activities. It came out on Xbox One a few years ago and has since then received incredible post-launch support. Despite the fact that Frontier Developments has worked on titles like Jurassic World Evolution and others, Elite: Dangerous continues to get expansions and free content.Today, the team revealed a new trailer for the "Fleet Carriers" expansion. A beta test starts on PC on April 7, but you can test it out on consoles in May. The Fleet Carriers expansion is set to launch in June, but due to the coronavirus, it may be delayed.Some of the key facts are listed below.A Fl...
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by Christian de Looper on (#51MN0)
Powerful and versatileEufy RoboVac 15C Max$260 at EufyProsLong battery lifePowerful suction powerWorks with Alexa and Google AssistantEasy-to-use appRelatively quietConsNo floor plansThe Eufy RoboVac 15C Max offers powerful performance, excellent battery life, and works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. It also has an advanced three-brush cleaning system to ensure that all dirt and debris is picked up when it cleans. Its large 0.6L dustbin ensures you don't have to empty it every few minutes.Brand name recognitioniRobot Roomba 675$299 at RoombaProsWorks with Google Assistant and Amazon AlexaGood battery lifeThree stage cleaning systemConsSmaller capacityLower suction powerNo floor plansThe iRobot Roomba 675 doesn't have the suction power or the capacity of the RoboVac 15C, but it does still offer Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Plus, it has the brand name recognition that some might appreciate and excellen...
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by Samuel Tolbert on (#51MN2)
Another look at the characters and world of this ambitious sequel.What you need to knowThe Last of Us Part II was originally scheduled to release in February before being delayed into May.The game has again been delayed, this time indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemicYou can preorder The Last of Us Part II for $60 at Best Buy.The Last of Us Part II has again been delayed, this time without a new release date. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it's certainly understandable, if frustrating. While the extended wait will be annoying, Naughty Dog has released several new screenshots from the game, showing a glimpse of new environments and more.You can check out the new environmental shots below, tap or click the images to enlarge them.Then, there's also several screenshots of Ellie.Some more screenshots with Ellie, Joel and Tommy.Since this new delay didn't even give a release window, we honestly don't know when we'll be playing The Last of Us Part II. When...
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