Latest from Android Central

A composer of Assassin's Creed games long gone by is returning for Ubisoft's latest.What you need to knowJesper Kyd worked as a composer for Assassin's Creed 2, Brotherhood and Revelations.Kyd is returning to compose for Assassin's Creed Valhalla, alongside Sarah Schachner and Einar Selvik.Assassin's Creed Valhalla is slated to arrive at some point in Holiday 2020.While Assassin's Creed Valhalla is looking to move the franchise forward in many ways, a composer who worked on the series several games ago is returning. Jesper Kyd, well-known for his work composing for Assassin's Creed 2, Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood and Assassin's Creed: Revelations, is returning to help compose the soundtrack for Assassin's Creed Valhalla.As seen here on the German Uplay storefront, Jesper Kyd is listed as one of the composers for the Assassin's Creed Valhalla soundtrack, alongside Sarah Schachner and Einar Selvik. Schachner is no stranger to the franchise, having worked as the composer o...

You can't be with your friends, but you can stream with them.What you need to knowSpotify has released Group Session, a new feature that'll make it easier to share a music experience with friends from a distance.Aimed at Premium subscribers, group features will allow two or more users to control a single queue.It's currently in beta and will continually evolve over time.Spotify is launching Group Session, a feature of the app that will let Premium users stream music with each other. It was spotted in testing last year but will now be made available broadly going forward.As reported by 9to5Mac, the company made the announcement this morning: Today, Spotify is launching a beta version of Group Session, an evolving feature that allows a group of two or more Premium users in the same space to share the control for their listening session with others via a Spotify Code. In addition to real-time listening, the feature will offer shared queue control and collaboration for th...

If you want to excel in life, you need to learn Excel. No, seriously. That may seem like a bold statement to make, but mastering how to use the spreadsheet app pays off. For one, it can help you land a fatter paycheck or even a promotion. For another, it can turn you into a productivity machine, as proficiency in Excel also means you can be adept in analyzing data, building charts, accounting, and so much more.Then again, given that Excel is a complex program, you may be stumped as to how to navigate it, especially if you're not too familiar with it. Luckily, you can get the training you need from eLearnExcel: The 2020 Excel Certification School Bundle, which features 60 hours of premium training designed to turn you into a data master.To the uninitiated, eLearnExcel is the International Academy of Computer Training's eLearning company specializing in the online training of Excel. It s used and trusted by the world's leading companies, including Microsoft, Facebook, HSBC, and KPM...

Google Pixel 3aIncredible value$360 at AmazonProsSame great rear camera as Pixel 3Astounding value for moneyHeadphone jackStereo speakersConsNo wireless chargingNo IP ratingPlastic buildThe Pixel 3a is particularly interesting because it brings the Pixel 3's excellent camera to the mid-range segment. That means you get the same image quality as a true flagship for much less. You also get the same great software experience, and it still offers incredible value even a year after launch.Google Pixel 3Discounted flagship$400 at AmazonProsGreat for one-handed useDual front camerasIP68 resistanceWireless chargingSleek metal buildConsNo headphone jackWeak battery lifeShorter software update lifespanIf you're looking for a small phone with top-notch hardware at a sub-flagship price, the Pixel 3 is a good competitor to the 3a. You're getting better hardware and IP68 resistance, but it's otherwise starting to show its age. This is now a near...

Sit down and get comfy — we've got a lot to talk about.Starting in 2016, the Fall season has become one of the most exciting times in the Android space. Sure, Samsung, OnePlus, and other companies are usually down with their announcements at this point in the year, but come mid-October, that's when Google gets to show off its latest and greatest flagships.The Pixel 4 and 4 XL were the big stars for 2019, and they're both packing a serious punch.Google's offering a lot of new tech with the Pixel 4 series, including things like dual rear cameras, 90Hz displays, and its Soli radar system for the first time. These are some of the biggest upgrades we've ever seen for the Pixel lineup, and as such, we have a lot to talk about.Check out our full reviewThere are two models —4 and 4 XLGet familiar with the specsPitting the Pixel 4 against the competitionThe 90Hz display is a big dealGoogle joined the dual camera clubLet's talk about SoliThere are three colorsWe should men...

Tello is making cellular service affordable for everyone with a range of plans to meet various budgets, and thanks to the company's latest deal for new and existing subscribers, you'll score double the data and twice the amount of minutes on the plan you choose through May 29! Tello's plans are already competitively priced compared to other service providers, and today's offer really helps blow the others out of the competition. New members will even receive a $15 account credit when signing up by May 19! That can be used towards the future purchase of a phone or put towards your monthly bill.There's no need to stay locked into paying for an expensive service provider anymore while companies like Tello Mobile exist. Tello is an affordable, prepaid service which uses Sprint's network and has a variety of plans for less than $20 monthly. The best part is that you're never locked into a contract and there are no fees to worry about; you only pay the cost of the plan you choose.One o...

Google Pixel 3a XLNexus reborn$380 at AmazonProsOutstanding valueSame camera as the 3 XLHeadphone jackThree years of software updatesConsNo unlimited original photo uploadsNo water resistanceNo wireless chargingThe Pixel 3a XL is the "lite" version of the 3 XL, and while it has a mid-range chipset and is missing out on some features, it has the same rear camera as its costlier sibling. The result is that you get the same fantastic camera on a phone that costs less than the Pixel 3 XL. Oh, and the phone also has a headphone jack.Google Pixel 3 XLAll the extras$425 at AmazonProsHigh-end hardwareExcellent front and rear camerasIP68 water resistanceWireless chargingThree years of software updatesConsMore expensiveNo headphone jackAverage battery lifeThe Pixel 3 XL is Google's late-2018 flagship, and in many ways still feels modern. The display is large (although a bit dim), you get solid internals, wireless charging, IP68 resistance, a...

Let's all pour one out for the ghost of E3 as more and more developers announce their own showcases.What you need to knowIn lieu of an E3 showcase since the event was cancelled, Ubisoft is hosting its own digital showcase on July 12.This showcase is set to feature "exclusive game news, reveals, and more."Ubisoft did not name any particular games that are set to be shown.After E3 was cancelled this year due to the pandemic, Ubisoft announced that it was exploring alternative methods to reveal what the company has in store for us. We now know that we can expect such an event on July 12. The publisher announced that Ubisoft Forward will be a fully digital showcase featuring game news, reveals, and more.Save the Date! Join us July 12 for Ubisoft Forward, a fully digital showcase with exclusive game news, reveals and more ? Stay tuned... #UbiForward pic.twitter.com/JLYEyF1YnL— Ubisoft (@Ubisoft) May 11, 2020This takes place about a month after E3 was initially planned...

A new studio looking to the future.What you need to knowGravity Well is a new independent studio founded by Respawn Entertainment veterans Drew McCoy and Jon "Slothy" Shiring.They are aiming to build a team around 80-85 people at peak, while still developing AAA games.Gravity Well is developing games exclusively for next-generation hardware and PCs.Since its acquisition by Electronic Arts in 2017, Respawn Entertainment has been delivering critically-acclaimed games including Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. Meanwhile, Respawn co-founder Vince Zampella is now studio head of both Respawn and DICE L.A, the latter of which will soon be renamed.Still, with some of its members leaving, opportunity emerges and now, there's an exciting new independent studio on the scene. Gravity Well is a completely new team founded by some Respawn Entertainment veterans, including former Executive Producer Drew McCoy and Jon Shiring."We are starting a studio because of how we wa...

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

Best answer: Google Meet is compatible with most desktop systems, Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, and even some Linux systems like Ubuntu. There are also apps available for Android, iOS, and iPad OS.Stay Connected: Google Meet (Free at Google Play)Easy to use on desktop or mobileGoogle Meet was originally developed as part of the G Suite, and as such, it was made with as few barriers to use as possible. Beyond the normal Mac and Windows compatibility we expect to see for a video conferencing service, Google Meet is also compatible with Google's Chrome OS, as well as several versions of Linux that are based on Debian, the most popular being Ubuntu.Google Meet does not require a desktop client or a browser extension to be installed, you only need to visit meet.google.com from one of the following browsers:Google ChromeMicrosoft EdgeMozilla FirefoxApple SafariIn order to get HD video on your call, you'll need at least broadband speeds and a computer with at least a 2nd-gen I...

Food Network is mixing comedy and cooking with its latest show Amy Schumer Learns to Cook. Comedian and actress Amy Schumer is bringing audiences inside her kitchen as she and her husband Chris Fischer prepare various dishes and cocktails. Fischer happens to be a professional chef, so while Amy might be making snide comments with cocktail in hand throughout each episode, there will still be some great tips to bring into your own kitchen.With weekly episodes focused on meal ideas like 'breakfast time and late-night eats", "lunch break and pasta night", and "brunch and taco night", the series is sure to feature plenty of great eats and how-to tips. Our guide below will take you through everything you need to know if you want to stream the show as it airs live.Amy Schumer Learns to Cook: When & whereAmy Schumer Learns to Cook premieres on Food Network on Monday, May 11 at 10 p.m. EST. New episodes will air on the following Mondays at the same time.How to watch Amy Schumer Le...

The 2020 RAZR is a fascinating mix of old and new.The Motorola RAZR from the early 2000s will go down as one of the most popular phones in history. It may not look like much in the year 2020, but in its heyday, the RAZR was darn special.Feeding off people's constant want for nostalgia and with foldable phones spiking in popularity, Motorola brought the RAZR back. However, instead of being an old-fashioned flip phone, the new RAZR is a fully-fledged Android smartphone with a striking folding design.Whether you're interested in the RAZR's specs, how it compares with other foldables, or how much it costs, here's everything you need to know about it!We've reviewed the RAZRW're digging the retro designHere are the specsComparing the RAZR to other foldablesIt's an exclusive to VerizonYou can buy the phone right now2004 is callingMotorola RAZR$1,500 at Motorola$1,500 at VerizonRAZR has returnedThe Motorola RAZR has gone down as one of the most popular phones in...

Android has new features and a more mature name.Android 10 is an incredibly powerful and capable bit of software. Released in September 2019, Android 10 brought about a few major changes to our favorite mobile OS that are still worth talking about to this very day — including the likes of revamped permissions, dark mode, and more.Even with Android 11 on the horizon, last year's update continues to hold up strong as it keeps making its way to handsets around the world.Whether you're interested in learning all about Android 10's many features, what devices it's available for, and much, much more, keep on reading below!Google is done with dessert namesIt's time to bid farewell to the back buttonDARK MODE IS OFFICIALLive Caption is an insanely cool featureApp permissions have gotten an overhaulCheck out the new share menuFoldable phones are natively supportedWhen can I get Android 10 on my phone?Android 11 is coming soonThere's no dessert name — Android Q is jus...

TodoistDe-facto choiceFree (w/ IAP) at Google PlayProsNatural Language ParsingTwo-way Calendar syncingAvailable on all major platformsKarma system keeps task management funConsMust pay to unlock all featuresNo team collaboration featuresTodoist continues to be the to-do app that everyone comes back to after test-driving the new and shiny cars. New coats of paint and a slight overhaul have turned Todoist back into the flexible king of to do apps, without much compromise. That is, if you're willing to pay for it.Microsoft To DoGreat and freeFree at Google PlayProsSimple integration with Microsoft servicesCompletely freeBuilt-in collaboration featuresAvailable on all major platformsConsLimited third-party calendar integrationOnly capable of using Cortana for smart assistant featuresThose looking for a simplistic and free task management app, or one with basic collaboration features, will want to check out To Do. The app checks many...

Irish author Sally Rooney's hit novel Normal People has been adapted into a 12 part series by BBC Three and Hulu and we have all the details on how you can watch the new series online or on TV from anywhere in the world.Set in the small Irish town of Carricklea in Sligo County, Normal People is a romantic drama that tells the story of Connell (played by Paul Mescal) and Marianne (played by Daisy Edgar-Jones) who attend the same high school and later the same college in Dublin.Connell and Marianne's secret relationship is put to the test as they come from very different backgrounds. Marianne is an awkward loner from a wealthy family while Connell is a popular star athlete whose mother cleans houses for living. Connell decides to keep their relationship a secret from his friends at school out of shame but the two end up attending Trinity College together after graduation where they reconcile. The tables turn at university where Marianne becomes the popular one while Connell has tro...

With Google I/O canceled, a debut at the June Android 11 launch makes a bit of sense.What you need to knowThe Pixel 4a will most likely launch in early June.It was previously thought to launch in May, coinciding with Google I/O.The cancellation of Google I/O and the June 3rd Android 11 public beta launch means a June launch of the phone was already more likely.We've seen renders, specs, live photos, packaging, and even a full camera review. The only thing missing is the actual phone. Earlier rumors indicated that it would be arriving soon, with a mid-May launch followed by a late May shipping date, but those have now changed. Tech blog Caschys (via Android Police) which earlier reported a shipping date of May 22nd as per Vodafone Germany's systems now report an altered June 5th shipping date for the Pixel 4a from the same source. In other words, Vodafone's first Pixel 4a shipments will now be delayed by about two weeks.While there's no official reason given for the date c...

It could take a few weeks for the update to become widely available.What you need to knowMotorola has started updating the Moto G7 and Moto G7 Power phones to Android 10.The update brings new gesture navigation, a system-wide dark mode, privacy and security enhancements, smart replies, as well as easier Wi-Fi sharing. It is being rolled out in stages. In January this year, Motorola released the stable Android 10 update for the Moto G7 Plus. Nearly five months later, the Lenovo-owned company has finally started rolling out (via PhoneArena) the Android 10 update for the standard Moto G7.As per the official Motorola update tracker page, the Android 10 update for the Moto G7 began rolling out on May 7. The update is being rolled out in batches, and is expected to hit all Moto G7 units in the country by June 7. In the coming weeks, however, the update will likely expand to a few other markets as well.As per some users on Reddit, the stable Android 10 update is now available ...

Face mask or no face mask? Despite the conflicting information on how face coverings work against coronavirus, doing all you can to stay protected shouldn't be a debate. Unfortunately, finding masks in stock is a different problem altogether. Luckily, we know where to look.Most people touch their face over 20 times per hour on average, and when you're running to the grocery store or another public space, having a mask on is a physical reminder not to do so. Wearing a face mask is one of the best ways to look out for yourself at this point — other than social distancing, washing your hands often, and staying at home.The CDC has changed its guidance to recommend that all citizens should only go out when wearing some sort of face mask, non-medical preferred. As medical masks are in short supply around the world, it's important to leave these essential supplies for healthcare workers who need them immediately.Where to find face masks in stockThe BestFOCO: shop face masksSho...

The Price is Right is headed to primetime once again. Last December, the show aired two specials dubbed The Price is Right at Night, and now the late-night version of one of America's favorite game shows is back. While previous specials starred celebrity guests like Seth Rogan and the cast from the CBS action drama SEAL, the latest episode of The Price is Right at Night is set to feature RuPaul of Drag Race fame.The Price is Right is currently airing new episodes every weekday at 11 a.m. EST on CBS, but you'll have to tune in quite a bit later than usual if you want to watch the latest special when it airs live. Our guide below will take you through everything you need to know so you don't miss the show.The Price is Right at Night: When & whereThe Price is Right at Night is set to air its newest special on CBS this Monday, May 11 at 8 p.m. EST. This episode was shot several weeks ago before production was shut down on the show and will feature RuPaul from RuPaul's Drag Race...

The Ecobee Smart Thermostat with voice control and room sensor is down to $199.99 at Best Buy. The same thermostat is $250 at other retailers like Home Depot and B&H. This price matches one we see occasionally, but the last time it dropped this low was a few weeks ago.This is one of Android Central's favorite smart thermostats, and we even consider it the best one overall if you're using the Amazon Alexa smart home ecosystem. It's certainly worth the purchase at $50 off.We love the Ecobee 4 and have written about it many times. Despite the name not continuing the numbers, this version on sale today could be considered the Ecobee 5. The SmartThermostat features a whole new design with a glass finish, a vivid touch display, a quad-core processor, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and far-field voice recognition that can pick up your commands from across the room.The smart sensor that comes with it can be used to monitor the temperature in a specific room, giving you more accurate c...

Google's cranking Android up to 11.Last year's Android 10 update was a big shift for the operating system. Not only did we get the long-awaited dark mode and important changes to app permissions, Android 10 also marked Google's departure from dessert names and ushered in a new Android logo/brand.Android 10 was a year of growth and maturity for the operating system, and those same principles are being carried over to Android 11. We're still a few months out from the final build being available for everyone, but with a developer preview now out in the wild, we have a good idea of where Google wants to take Android in 2020.Ready to learn all about what Android 11 is packing? Here's everything you need to know!Developer Preview 4 is outTons of messaging improvementsPermissions keep getting betterWe have a built-in screen recorderAdapting Android to different displays5G is a big focusYou can flash it right nowThe final build is coming in Q3The Pixel 4 is first-in-line f...

A field test at Mount Sinai in New York is the first outing of this project.What you need to knowGoogle is working on providing 10, 000 Nest Cams to healthcare providers amid the COVID-19 crisis.The first provider to take advantage of this is Mount Sinai.Google says these Nest Cams are HIPAA compliant and will help save in PPE costs. Google is planning to provide up to 10, 000 Nest Cams to healthcare providers to aid the current response to the COVID-19 pandemic.With these Nest Cams, nurses and doctors will be able to check in on patients, supplementing in-person checks. This means there will be a reduction of physical contact, and therefore less of a need for personal protection equipment (PPE), which has fast become a scare resource.Robbie Freeman, a registered nurse at Mount Sinai explained on Monday: Starting this week, we began installing two Nest Cameras in more than a hundred rooms being used to help Coronavirus patients⁠—in most rooms one will be used to...

Keep your $1000 ultrabooks and give me more couch companions like these.The Lenovo Chromebook Duet debuted at CES, and it looked like the most promising Chromebook of the year, even before 2020 went completely sideways. This is the first non-education Chrome OS tablet we've seen since the premium and problem-plagued Pixel Slate launched two years ago, and while this isn't a powerhouse by any means, the Duet still has a better chance at success because it's learned from the Slate's mistakes. Most importantly, it learned you don't sell a Chromebook tablet without a keyboard in the box, what were you thinking, Google?!Fun and functionalLenovo Chromebook Duet$300 at Best BuyFrom $279 at LenovoGet Chrome OS in a couch-friendly form.With the latest tablet features from Chrome OS and a full bundle out of the box with the cover and keyboard, Lenovo is offering up the most promising Chromebook tablet we've seen so far. Whether you need to bang out some emails or just want to ...

Best answer: No, Visible only supports the Verizon LTE network. Luckily, Verizon's LTE network provides fast speeds and great coverage, meaning most people will have plenty of speed even on LTE.Unlimited data on the Verizon network: Visible ($40 per month at Visible)Early Access MVNO Verizon 5G: US Mobile ($100 for three months at US Mobile)Unlocked LTE with pure Android: Google Pixel 3a ($400 at Best Buy)Committed to LTEVisible was one of the first carriers to ditch 3G and analog connections for all of its phones. All Visible phones and plans use LTE for data, calling, and texts. With this setup, it seems like Visible would be primed to be one of the first carriers to hit 5G but the main drawback is the Verizon network. AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile have all built 5G networks either fully or partially on lower, LTE-like, sub-6 bands. This means they offer similar coverage to that seen on 4G LTE.Verizon has yet to build any sub-6 5G and has been fully committed to buildi...

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 modelsThe design is a mysterySpecs? Here's what we knowLook forward to an August releaseLet's discuss pricingDon't overlook the Note 10Today's NoteGalaxy Note 10+From $1,100 at Samsung$1,100 at Best BuyPlenty of specs and features for years to comeWhile we are excited to see what Samsung has to...

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 was 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 ...

If you're searching for a way to improve your home entertainment setup, Woot's having a one-day sale on ViewSonic Home Theater Projectors that you should take a look today. With prices starting as low as $144.99, this sale offers some very affordable options as well as pricier, more advanced models.Each projector in today's sale is factory reconditioned, which means ViewSonic has inspected, tested, and renewed each model where necessary to bring them all back to Like-New condition. They even come with a 90-day ViewSonic warranty. Some models have already sold out this morning, so don't delay on completing the purchase if you're interested!ViewSonic's PJD6352LS-R XGA HDMI Short Throw Projector is one of the most affordable models in today's sale, now down to $349.99. It features 3,500 Lumens, native XGA 1024 x 768 resolution, and a user-friendly design that's easy to navigate. On the other hand, models like ViewSonic PRO10100 XGA 3D DLP Home Theater Projector are featured in the s...

I want to love Moto phones, but something's gotta give.Motorola will always have a soft spot in my nerdy heart. It's a company that's been fundamental for consumer technology, creating the world's first true cell phone back in 1983 and continuing to exist in the mobile tech space all these years later. In regards to Android, specifically, I think back to the days of the Moto X in 2013 and 2014 and how much dang fun those phones were.The Motorola we know today under Lenovo ownership is clearly a lot different from the ghost of Motorola's past, but even so, there's no denying that the company still has what it takes to create damn good products. Whether it be low-cost phones like the Moto G series or the company's recent return to flagships with the Motorola Edge+, Motorola consistently delivers really good handsets no matter how you slice them.That's why the company's dumbfounding software update policy is so enraging.If you go out and buy a Motorola phone right now, you're gu...

Just like last year, Samsung may launch only two flagship Note phones in 2020.What you need to knowA new rumor suggests the Galaxy Note 20 series will only have two models – Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Plus.Unlike the Galaxy S20 series, Samsung will apparently not launch a "Note 20 Ultra." The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series is expected to be unveiled in August. The Galaxy S20 Ultra is the most expensive phone in the Galaxy S20 series lineup, boasting a 108MP primary camera and a few other upgrades over the standard and Plus models. Despite its steep pricing, some reports have suggested that it is actually more popular than the other two Galaxy S20 models in several markets. According to a new rumor (via Android Authority), however, Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Note 20 series will not have an "Ultra" model.Ross Young, CEO and founder of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), has claimed in a new tweet that there will be no Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. Instead, Samsung will only la...

One of Newegg's Shell Shocker deals includes the Jabra Elite 75t true wireless earbuds on sale for $99.99 refurbished directly from the Jabra Online Store. Shell Shocker deals expire at the end of the day, and considering how rare deals on the 75t are, these might just sell out. Jabra covers the refurbs with a 180-day warranty.Read our review of the Elite 75t from a few months ago. Daniel Bader gave them 4.5 stars out of 5 and a "The Best" badge. He said, "The Jabra Elite 75t are excellent true wireless earbuds that do everything really well. They're small, comfortable, and sound great, and have fantastic and useful features like auto play/pause. Battery life has been bumped over the Elite 65t, too, despite getting smaller, and Jabra's app is just as useful as ever."While these earbuds are missing active noise-cancelation technology, and that's the reason they are missing half a star in our review, they do have some noise canceling tech in the mics. The earbuds actually have four...

Let's chat with the AC forums.New Android phones are fun and exciting, but not everyone needs to have the latest and greatest. While they can be a lot of fun to talk and write about, putting up the money to buy one is a different story.Recently, one of our AC forum members said that they currently have a Galaxy S8+ and are looking to upgrade. However, they're torn between whether to get the new S20+ or last year's S10+.Here's how some of our other members responded. the_boon 05-08-2020 08:23 AM “ I personally would definitely go for the S10+ and save alot of money. If you have to ask if you need 5G, then you probably don't really need it. I think the vast majority of consumers don't need it now, and probably won't for quite some time. Reply jtfwTX 05-08-2020 08:27 AM “ save the money. wa...

While live sports have been cancelled in pretty much all forms during the current health crisis, that doesn't mean you can't show your team colors. If you're looking for a way to display your team pride in these unprecedented times, what better way than a FOCO face mask with your team's logo emblazoned on it?Team colorsFOCO Face MasksWith officially-licensed NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB face masks and gaiter scarves, you can keep your face covered when out and about while showing off your team pride.From $13 at FOCOThere's been some debate over the effectiveness of face masks, though the CDC has come down on the side of advising face coverings when leaving the home, be they homemade or store-bought. It's not all that easy to find face coverings in stores these days with many selling out as soon as stock arrives, and it can be hard to make your own face mask. FOCO's options are available to order now meaning you can skip that process altogether.With teams from the NFL, NBA, NHL,...

Whether you're new to working from home or you have been at it for some time, there are moments when you need to be uninterrupted. A simple way to do this is by setting up a color-changing smart light with a switch of some sort. Put it around your office door, in a hall on the way to your office, or in a common space where your family or roommates will see it. By doing this it'll be clear when you can be bothered or when you need to be left alone.Products used in this guideSimply smart: Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus ($80 at Best Buy)Centrally located: Philip Hue Smart Bridge ($60 at Best Buy)Switch it up: Philips Hue Tap Remote Switch ($50 at Best Buy)How to set up a Philips Hue Smart Bridge and bulbPlug or screw in your light to a power source.Plug in your Philips Hue Bridge to power and Ethernet. Then wait for the three blue lights to be solid.Download the Philips Hue app from your phone's app store.After the app downloads, open it and set up an account.Tap the set ...

Today is the day to upgrade your locks! The August Smart Lock Pro with Connect Wi-Fi Bridge is on sale for just $179.99 via Woot today only. The Pro normally sells for around $200 and sometimes goes as high as $280, which is the price you'll find it going for at other retailers like Best Buy. The discount applies to both the silver and dark gray colors, though the deal ends tonight or when sold out.The August Smart Lock Pro is a fantastic smart lock that is near the top of most smart lock lists, including our own, thanks to its ease of use, advanced functionality, and more. One really great aspect of this lock is that it doesn't require a complicated install. It sits on top of your current single deadbolt, and you can even still use the keys you have now after it's installed. The whole thing takes 10 minutes and a screwdriver.Once installed, you'll be able to download the August app on your smartphone and monitor all sorts of things about the lock. Check on your door and make sur...

The last six weeks have not been easy for people who, like me, were used to working in silence. Since mid-March, I've been home with my wife and 20-month-old daughter trying to eke out a few hours of uninterrupted work a day, and the truth is that it's not easy. I know this, you know this.That's why noise-cancelling headphones, a category of product I used to wear mainly out of the house, have become my secret weapon for fighting distraction. And Sennheiser, a company that is known better for its fidelity than its technology, has risen to the occasion.Before the pandemic, I was reviewing the Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless headphones; now I'm using them, and the distinction is important. They went from being a product I'm evaluating to a tool I'm counting on to get work done (yes, I have other options, but indulge me this point). And that means connecting them to phones and laptops alike, wearing them sometimes for eight to 10 hours at a time, and treating them with perhaps less c...

Samsung's phones are powerful, but no phone is going to perfectly perform in all situations. As your Samsung phone starts to get old, a couple years in with new features and apps, you may start to see slowdowns. If your Galaxy S or Galaxy Note is slowing down from time to time, there are lots of things you can do to fix it — here are our top tips.Restarting is the first stepSometimes we get so focused on trying to fix a slowdown that we forget about the most basic thing ever: restarting the phone. Yes, it stinks to hear "did you turn it off and back on again?" when you feel like you've already tried things, but this is something you have to do as the first step of your performance issue troubleshooting.Software and apps are supposed to behave themselves, but sometimes they don't — and a simple restart is all it takes. Alternatively, even if you have to continue looking at different ways to fix your problem, restarting and getting a cleaner slate to start with is very imp...

It, however, isn't exactly all new.What you need to knowXiaomi's Redmi sub-brand has launched the first phone to feature Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 768G chipset.Aside from the Snapdragon 768G and a new color option, the Redmi K30 5G Racing Edition is identical to the standard Redmi K30. It will be going on sale in China starting May 14 for 1,999 yuan ($282).Earlier today, Qualcomm announced the Snapdragon 768G chipset, which is essentially an overclocked version of the Snapdragon 765G that it launched in December last year. The first phone to be powered by the Snapdragon 768G chipset is the new Redmi K30 5G Racing Edition.The latest Redmi K30 series phone is identical to the standard K30 that the brand had introduced late last year. Unsurprisingly, the most significant difference is the presence of the newer Snapdragon 768G chipset, which has a higher 2.8GHz CPU clock speed and a 15% faster Adreno 620 GPU. While there are no other changes under the hood, the Redmi K30 5...

True wireless earbuds are the future, and that future is surprisingly affordable. Gone are the days of having to spend $200 and up for a reliable set of Bluetooth buds. With this deal on the JBL Free X true wireless earphones, you only need to spend $55. That's thanks to a one-day DealZone sale that is offering an instant savings of 63% compared to the earbuds' $150 MSRP. When not selling for their full retail price, these earbuds rarely drop below $100 so this is a significant savings no matter which way you look at it. The deal ends tonight or when sold out, though.The JBL Free X offer 4.5 hours of playback per charge, and the compact carrying case can provide an additional 20 hours of usage time. One neat feature is the ability to fast-charge the earbuds — a 15-minute charge can provide the Free X earbuds with up to an hour of battery life. You can use one headphone at a time with auto-switching between mono and stereo modes and the built-in mics allow you to use them to make ...

What you need to knowPopular email app Newton is back. Again.It previously died and then was picked up by Essential. Before Essential closed.Now it's back, and its future looks much brighter.The most phoenix-y phoenix ever.Newton is an email app that has been around for years. Previously called CloudMagic it was one of the first email apps that snoozed emails and integrated heavily with services and other apps. Then it went through two closures, the most recent after Essential went under. But now it's back, and things look pretty promising.The app's revival was announced via Medium post with users Maitrik Kataria and Justin Mitchell picking it up from Essential. And the pair have big plans. Our plan to make Newton successful — A contingency plan to keep Newton going forever Building a stable and steady independent business Add "service" in the SaaS (software as a service) business Add features that increase the lifetime value Better security and priv...

Did all this stuff work? Am I rooted? Here's how to tell.So you just went through a bunch of instructions you didn't fully understand, or downloaded some program to your computer and let it run, and your phone is supposed to be rooted. (And yes, naysayers, this is more common than you think — not everyone lives and breathes this stuff.) How can you be sure it worked?Because the people who make our phones (most of them, anyway) don't want us to be able to root them it's not as easy as installing an app from Google Play, and sometimes it doesn't work out like it should. You'll need to verify that it worked — and is working properly — before you use root to do whatever it is you wanted to do with it. Thankfully, that's pretty easy to do.If you used a "systemless root" method and everything finished without an error, you're rooted for all intents and purposes. Install a root checker app from Google Play. Open it and follow the instructions, and it will tell you if you...

Realme has already rolled out the Android 10 update to most devices in its extensive portfolio.Realme rolled out its first phone two years ago, and in that short time the brand managed to carve out a sizeable niche for itself in India. Realme consistently undercut Xiaomi in the entry-level and budget segments, allowing it to build momentum in a matter of months.Realme formed as a sub-brand of OPPO, and as such its phones featured ColorOS out of the box. But the brand broke away into a standalone entity last year, and it switched to its own skin with a cleaner design, dubbed Realme UI. Realme has already updated a lot of its devices from ColorOS to Realme UI based on Android 10, with a few scheduled to receive the update later in Q2 and Q3 2020.Realme UI leverages ColorOS, but the visual elements have been overhauled, making it look much more modern. It is likely we'll see wholesale changes down the line as Realme diversifies its skin further from ColorOS. The skin is clearly ai...

Both phones pack massive 5,000mAh batteries.What you need to knowRealme's Narzo smartphone series is now official.The Narzo 10 and Narzo 10A are the first phones to launch under the new youth-centric series.The Narzo 10 will go on sale in the country starting May 18.Realme has finally taken the wraps off its new youth-centric Narzo series of budget smartphones. The company had originally planned to launch the Narzo series in India on March 26, but had to defer the launch twice due to the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country.The first Narzo series smartphones are called the Narzo 10 and Narzo 10A. While the former is a rebadged version of the Realme 6i, the latter is based on the triple-camera version of the Realme C3. The Narzo 10 sports a 6.5-inch HD+ display with a 20:9 aspect ratio and a waterdrop notch housing a 16MP selfie camera. It is powered by MediaTek's 12nm Helio G80 chipset, paired with 4GB RAM and 128GB of expandable storage.The budget phone comes with a qua...

And the U.S. still doesn't have a phone with the 765.What you need to knowQualcomm has announced the Snapdragon 768 — a successor to the 765.The 768 has a faster CPU and GPU, along with support for 5G connectivity.Xiaomi's Redmi K30 5G Racing Edition is the first phone to get the new chip.One of the most talked-about processors in the Android space right now isn't Qualcomm's most powerful 865 — it's the lower-end 765. The Snapdragon 765 delivers flagship performance and 5G connectivity at a lower price than its more expensive sibling, and while we've yet to have a phone launch in the U.S. with the fascinating chipset, it already has a successor.On May 10, Qualcomm officially unveiled its new Snapdragon 768 — building upon what makes the 765 so interesting and making it even better.The two big talking points about the 768 are that it's more capable from a processing and graphical standpoint. The Kyro 475 CPU Prime now has a clock speed up to 2.8Ghz, which is an imp...

Heads up! We share savvy shopping and personal finance tips to put extra cash in your wallet. Android Central may receive a commission from The Points Guy Affiliate Network. Please note that the offers mentioned below are subject to change at any time and some may no longer be available.The travel industry has been hit hard by the coronavirus outbreak. Thousands of aircraft are parked due to the low passenger loads, and hotel occupancy in the U.S. and abroad has plunged to historic levels. This has left airlines and hotel groups scrambling to find new income streams in order to secure fast cash. One of these is selling airline miles and hotel points with a discount or bonus — this gives the airline an immediate cash injection as travelers are essentially prepaying for future travel at a discount.There are several good buy-miles deals going on right now; for example, IHG is selling IHG Rewards points at 0.5 cents per point and Air Canada is selling Aeroplan miles with a bonus for ...

Marton Barcza is here to talk about his new app, Crrowd. It's a community for crowd-sourced tech reviews and questions you might have about a gadget. He also chats with Daniel and Jerry about the best selling Android phones and why they aren't necessarily the ones that get the most press coverage.They discuss what it will take for MediaTek to rise up as a true competitor to Qualcomm, a delay of the next Android 11 public beta, and the viability of LG's Velvet smartphone.Listen nowSubscribe in Pocket Casts: AudioSubscribe in Spotify: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: Audio Subscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:crrowd.comTechAltar - YouTubeRedmi Note 8 was the best-selling Android smartphone in Q1 2020 | Android CentralThe Android 11 public beta is being delayed until June 3 | Android CentralGoogle is finally doing something about its incoherent messaging strategy | Android CentralLG Velvet is now official with Snapdragon 765 SoC, 48MP triple-camera set...

Many homeowners are moving to a more hands-on security setup because excellent products that are easy to set up are readily available. Just mount it, plug it in, and your home is good to go. We think the Ring Alarm Home Security System is the best you can buy because of its great features, amazing Amazon Alexa integration, and easy setup, but there are plenty of others that might fit your needs. Here are some smart home systems that can get you started.Best for Alexa: Ring Alarm Home Security (2nd Gen)This five-piece Ring Alarm security system comes with a base station, contact sensor, motion detector, keypad, and range extender. You can control it all from one central location — your phone. If you have an Alexa-enabled device, that's even better. You'll be able to do it solely through your voice and check your system through any Alexa device.The tight integration with Alexa is because Amazon owns the brand, but the Ring app for your phone also works well for those who aren...

Best answer: Most people will be best off with the Pixel 3a XL purely based on its larger screen and longer battery life. The standard Pixel 3a is compelling as a compact phone, but it may feel cramped for many people and its battery life is questionable — you can get so much more for about $20 extra in the Pixel 3a XL.Our pick: Google Pixel 3a XL ($380 at Amazon)Compact pick: Google Pixel 3a ($360 at Amazon)What's the difference between the Pixel 3a and 3a XL? Just like the original Pixel 3 and 3 XL, there isn't much that differentiates the two mid-range Pixel 3a models other than size — but that is, of course, a difference that requires some thought when choosing which one you should buy. Both the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL are built with the same materials and design touches and operate on the same platform internally with the same specs and capabilities. There are just a few different line items that are different to align with the differences in size. Category...

There are plenty of incredibly cool smartphones on the market right now. From the latest and greatest iPhone to a series of Samsung and LG models that make it easy to keep in touch and watch shows on the go, there's certainly no lack of options when it comes to selecting a smartphone that's right for you.The only problem is that the average lifespan of a smartphone in today's world is a mere two years—meaning that countless phones are tossed in the garbage or abandoned in order to make way for the latest and flashiest model that offers at best a handful of new features that you don't really need.Enter the Teracube Smartphone. As the world's most eco-friendly smartphone, this powerful all-in-one sidekick comes with an all-day battery, gorilla glass screen, octa-core processor, and tons of storage space—along with a 4-year warranty that ensures it will be able to stand the test of time.Featured in leading tech publications including Engadget, Digital Trends and Tech Radar, the T...

Happy Mother's Day! It's a bit different this year, of course, but I hope you get a chance to honor, if possible, the person who brought you into this world, and if you have one, the partner who's helping you get through it.I wanted to write this week's column about how connecting with family during the pandemic has been fraught and confusing but ultimately rewarding as we all learn to grapple with the dysfunction of platform dependency and standards fragmentation. But that's not really interesting — we've all settled on Zoom, for better or worse, and I've managed to convince many of my friends to use Duo, which is a pretty good product.But the truly mindblowing news this week was Google's admission that its flailing messaging strategy needs a complete overhaul, starting with a consolidation of products under one team, led by the man, Javier Soltero, who built Outlook Mobile over at Microsoft. While Google isn't actually going to create a single messaging service for consumers ...