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Updated 2026-11-07 07:11
Combine your wallet and phone case for your Galaxy S20+
Bigger phones like the Samsung Galaxy S20+ are perfect candidates for wallet cases. The bigger the phone, the more space it takes up in your pocket or bag. Wallet cases let you condense all your essential IDs and payment methods in one place. The best-designed wallet cases make life more comfortable at the expense of a little added bulk. Check out the stylish options available so far.Jack of all tradesOlixar X-Ranger$20 at Olixar$20 at AmazonIf a thick folio wallet isn't your style, go slimmer and become a super-spy with the X-Ranger. When the bottom kickstand isn't deployed, it just looks like a heavy-duty case, but it also has space for a couple of cards inside.Carry it allCaseMe Magnetic Leather Wallet$13 at AmazonThis wallet folio comes in five colors, including a subdued Wine Red and teal-ish Blue. There are two dedicated card slots and then a bigger slot for spare cash and receipts. It's our top pick for its affordability and choice of colors....
Google just added its logo to the Gboard spacebar and people are hating it
The Google search button has also gone away.What you need to knowThe spacebar in Gboard for Android now has 'Google' branding on it.Users on reddit as well as Google's Android Help forum are criticizing the search giant for the move. In addition to the 'Google' branding to the spacebar, the latest Gboard update also removes the Google Search button.Update: It looks like the backlash to the change was severe enough that Google's re-thought the whole thing. Members of the Android Central team, as well as folks on the Android subreddit, have noticed that the Google logo has now been removed from the spacebar.Google's Gboard is one of the most popular keyboard apps for Android, thanks to its smart features and an intuitive design. Google is now rolling out two major changes to Gboard, both of which seem to have annoyed a large number of users. Many users have taken to reddit and Google's Android Help forum to voice their displeasure over these changes.Gboard for Android...
How to watch Trolls World Tour online right now
Movie theaters may be closed, but that's no excuse to forego movie night. Kids have been waiting ever-so patiently (or not so patiently) for the sequel to the 2016 hit animated film Trolls, and today, Trolls World Tour is premiering exclusively on digital retailers like Vudu, iTunes, and Amazon Prime so they can watch the film from the safe, cozy living room couch.Where to watch Trolls World TourApple iTunesAmazon Prime VideoVuduGoogle PlayFandango NowXfinityTrolls World Tour is not available to own at this time. All digital retailers are offering a 48-hour rental of the film priced at $19.99, and that's an important distinction you'll want to take note of before spending your money. You might balk at the thought of spending so much on a rental when most sell anywhere between $1 and $6, though it'd be wise to take how much you're saving into account as well.Imagine taking your children to see Trolls World Tour at the theater this weekend. Would it cost $20? Maybe $...
Snag a free Echo Dot speaker with a year of SiriusXM Select on sale for $60
Looking for ways to stay entertained while stuck indoors over the next few weeks? For a limited time, Sirius has its SiriusXM Select streaming service on sale giving you the chance to score a year-long membership for just $60! This deal gets even better though, as Sirius is also throwing in an Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker free-of-charge so you can listen to the service anywhere in your home.A year of access to SiriusXM would normally cost a little over $200, but today's deal saves you more than $140 off that cost and throws in the Echo Dot for free — normally valued at $50 itself. Even if you're unsure of whether you like SiriusXM yet, this deal is worth grabbing considering it's like paying only $10 for the service on top of the Echo Dot's price.You'll just want to remember to end your subscription once six months has passed if you decide the service isn't for you. Otherwise, you'll remain a member and be charged its regular $16.99 subscription fee per month. Canceling before...
The Galaxy S20+ is big, pretty, but fragile — protect it with a clear case
Samsung made yet another beauty with the Galaxy S20+, so I understand not wanting to hide its splendor inside a bulky, blocky tank of a case. That said, this is also a costly phone that's completely wrapped in glass, so please, please, please protect your gem of a phone with a clear case. There's no reason not to when they look this good!Grippy clear caseCaseology Solid Flex CrystalStaff pick$11 at Amazon$15 at CaseologyCaseology's take on the classic clear TPU case adds some subtle sculpting for air cushions around the corners and is remarkably grippy even without texturing. Microdots inside also help prevent splotching.Plant-based protectionTech21 Pure Clear$32 at Tech21 $40 at Amazon Tech21 makes the PureClear case with sustainable, plant-based materials, while also making it durable and drop-resistant. It also has a BioShield that's supposed to keep your phone clean and germ-free.Ruggedly handsomeESR Air Armor$11 at Amazon$16 at ESRESR pac...
Trying out Sling TV is hardly ever this easy (and free)
If you're one of the many who's wondering why you're still paying for cable while live sports are cancelled for the forseeable future, it's time to think about giving Sling TV's live streaming service a try. Sling doesn't usually offer a free trial that lets you see what it's all about without paying, but for a limited time, you can start a free 7-day trial and check out the service for yourself.Sling is much more affordable than traditional cable packages, and today's trial doesn't even require you to enter your credit card details or billing information. You'll be prompted to enter that info once the 7-day trial ends if you decide to keep your membership active.Having a Sling membership is nearly essential in the age of cordcutting. It's much more affordable than a traditional cable package while still letting you watch your favorite channels. However, now you'll be able to watch them on more than just your living room TV. Sling has an app that can be downloaded to various devi...
What is UFS 3.0 storage, and why should you care?
Best answer: UFS 3.0 is the latest iteration of Universal Flash Storage, a storage standard designed for smartphones and digital cameras. UFS offers read and write speeds that are significantly faster than eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) while retaining the same power consumption figures. Think it of as a mobile SSD for your phone.Speed demon: OnePlus 7T ($499 at OnePlus)UFS delivers SSD-like speeds on smartphonesUFS (Universal Flash Storage) has emerged as the preferred flash memory standard for high-end phones in recent years. eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) is still the most prominent memory standard around — with the Pixel 3a series using an eMMC 5.1 storage module — but UFS offers significantly higher bandwidth while consuming the same amount of power.UFS was primarily designed to deliver SSD-like speeds on mobile devices. The first-gen UFS modules offered three times faster file copying times, as well as vast improvements in multitasking over eMMC modules. UFS can d...
How to watch The Bachelor Presents: Listen to your Heart live stream online
Love and music are two of the most emotionally powerful forces in the world which is why The Bachelor's creator Mike Fleiss has decided to combine the two for the series' latest spin-off, The Bachelor Presents: Listen to Your Heart.The new dating reality TV series, hosted by Chris Harrison, will follow 12 single men and 11 single women over the course of six episodes as they try to make connections with one another through music. That's right, all of the contestants in Listen to Your Heart are musicians and the dates they go on will focus on music.Once the show's contestants find that special someone and decide to become a couple, their harmony will be tested through a series of musical challenges as well as live performances which will be judged by some of the biggest names in the music business including Toni Braxton, Kesha, Jewel, Shaggy, the Plain White T's and more. The couples whose musical performances show the most love and devotion to one another will advance while those...
Peak Design's Travel Tripod is great for photography (if you can afford it)
As a traveling videographer (well, just a videographer at the moment), I've always had an obsession with two categories of gear that make my life a lot easier: backpacks and tripods.After years of trying bag after bag, Peak Design more or less ended my search for the former with its Everyday Backpack line, which I've been a huge fan of since the original 20L model. Now, the San Francisco-based company aims to similarly shake up the tripod market with its Travel Tripod — a sleek, compact tripod with the clever design traits that Peak Design is known for.The Travel Tripod is available in two material configurations — aluminum and carbon fiber — and two different price points. I've been testing the latter version since January, and it's since become a mainstay in both my traveling and home filming rigs.My new go-to tripodPeak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod ...
Instagram now lets everyone send DMs on the desktop
Facebook brings one of its best messaging services multi-platform.What you need to knowInstagram finally is rolling out web DMs to all users.The company announced a testing period in January for a select group of users.Facebook still plans on bridging all its messaging services eventually.Instagram is finally rolling out desktop DMs after testing the feature for a few months. You'll now be able to read, send, and respond to DMs from your browser much like you can from the mobile app. Features like emoji and gif support come along for the ride, and you'll be able to share images and videos directly from the feed to your friends' inboxes.*Sliding into your DMs*Now you can get and send Instagram Direct messages on desktop, no matter where you are in the world 👍 pic.twitter.com/CT2SwuxHTv— Instagram (@instagram) April 10, 2020While users have always been able to DM through mobile apps, the feature was one that was conspicuously absent on the otherwise decent desktop ...
The best smart LED light bulbs for your home from Philips Hue
One of the best ways to start off or expand a smart home is through smart lights. Lighting can really set the mood in a home, creating a warm, inviting ton when you want to relax or brightening things up when you're ready to party. When it comes to smart lighting, Philips Hue is one of the most recognizable and popular brands thanks to the wide range of products in the line, all of which can easily be controlled through one Hue Bridge and your mobile device or even voice. A great option that will fit the bill no matter where you want to place the light is the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 Bluetooth Smart LED Bulb because it can connect to a Bridge for remote control and be added to a larger system, or just use Bluetooth for control from the app while you're in the room. But what other types of Hue bulbs would be great for different rooms of the home and different use cases?Best Overall: Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance A19 Bluetooth Smart LED BulbThis bulb, ava...
Zoom isn't what you should use to keep secrets but it's fine for saying hi
Zoom isn't the monster much of the media has made it out to be. Just be careful what you use it for.If you're stuck at home and spend time reading about technology, you probably heard how Zoom is some evil entity intent on stealing away your life and doing something equally evil to you if you use it. Labels like malware get thrown around and we hear about every single mistake the company has made. And there are a lot of them to be sure.The thing is, Zoom is also really easy to use. Usually, the easier a thing is to use, the less secure it will be and Zoom is the poster child for that slogan. But right now, the world needs easy to use just as much as it needs secure and that's why there is space for software like Zoom in the lives of plenty of people.Zoom - has bugs like all other software.Zoom - fixing bugs and being responsible.Zoom - software I easily taught my dad to use for remote classes over email and WhatsApp.Zoom - not rated for sensitive data: natsec, confidential sour...
Simon Cowell and co are back for another run of the televised talent show
Get ready for a new batch of showbiz hopefuls and some heart-warming family entertainment - Britain's Got Talent is back for its 14th season. Geordie duo Ant and Dec return to host the TV talent show's auditions, while Simon Cowell, David Walliams, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden are all back behind the judges' desk.This year's competition looks set to be one with a difference - the early audition stages were all filmed before Coronavirus restrictions came into force in the UK and are set to air as planned, however ITV have been forced to postpone this year's live shows, which means the conclusion for this year's show could be pegged back until the winter.Early previews have teased a Royal Marine who has an explosive special skill, an incredible stunt unicyclist and a Donald Trump lookalike in pink tights among the contestants hoping to get their big break on the show.This year's hopefuls will be hoping to emulate last year's winner - 90-year-old singer Colin Thackery who has go...
Remove cables with these amazing true wireless earbuds
Smartphones are slowly but surely getting rid of the 3.5mm audio jack from smartphones and tablets, so users are turning to wireless as the next viable option. The Jabra Elite 75t are currently the best overall true wireless earbuds you can buy. They feature solid sound, long battery life, and they're incredibly comfortable and portable.Best Overall: Jabra Elite 75tThe Jabra Elite 75t features a very bass-heavy sound out of the box, which is surprising. The bass is boosted quite a bit to the point where some may dislike the bass overall. For bass heads, this will be the earbud for you. Fortunately, you can adjust the Elite 75t's sound signature with its smartphone companion app.Battery life is excellent here as well with up to 7.5 hours of listening on a single charge. The included charging case gets you roughly 20 additional hours of listening, totaling around 28 hours of listening time with the charging case. Unfortunately, they still don't feature wireless charging for...
How Chadley's Intel Reports in Final Fantasy 7 Remake get you Summoning
Chadley Chadignton Chadster the Seventh...Okay, but seriously, Chadley is a stupid name. If you started up Final Fantasy 7 Remake, you probably have some questions about this Chadley character, his Intel Reports, and why you should bother with what are essentially pretty dull side quests. Or maybe you don't, and you blew off this kid and his achievement list. Why do you want to help this weird robot Shinra clone kid? Oh, right, Materia.Who is Chadley? I don't remember him.Chadley is a brand new character introduced in Final Fantasy 7 Remake, whose purpose seems to be to introduce certain Materia earlier in the game. Chadley begins his odd, mechanical introduction explaining that he works as an intern for Shinra Research and Development. This, of course, is a huge red flag for Cloud, the ex-SOLDIER who really would rather Shinra just stopped existing.However, with a quick promise that he plans on undermining Shinra from the inside, some oddly specific comments about how Clou...
Protect your Galaxy S20 Ultra with these reliable heavy duty cases
The largest phone in the S20 lineup absolutely deserves the rugged protection of a heavy duty case — but that doesn't mean you need to add an inch of opaque plastic to make it even more unwieldy. These days, you can find rugged clear cases and other sleek designs that add extra functionality to your phone. Here are our picks for the best heavy duty cases for the S20 Ultra.Clearly ruggedRingke Fusion XStaff pick$8 at Amazon$13 at WalmartThe Ringke Fusion X is the perfect blend of function and style. The rugged TPU bumper protects along with the rigid backplate, which is crystal clear to let the S20 Ultra's design shine through.Heavy-duty hybridSpigen Tough Armor$15 at Amazon $45 at Spigen Spigen makes some outstanding cases that are sleek and rugged. The Tough Armor style is the best of the bunch with dual-layer protection and a built-in kickstand around the back.Texas-proud protectionArmadilloTek Vanguard Series$19 at Amazon$30 at Arm...
These are the best Chromebooks to buy for you and your family
Android Central's top-ranking Chromebook reviews rankedThe best Chromebooks of 2020 can provide a top-notch computing experience, perfect for students, grandparents and anyone looking for a trouble-free laptop with long battery life. We've reviewed and rated the absolute best Chromebooks so that you can find the best value at any budget. Our buyer's guide will help you find the perfect Chrome OS laptop or tablet.Best overallLenovo Chromebook C340 (11.6")$239 at Walmart$320 at AmazonThe best Chromebook just got better.With double the USB ports and 8GB models on the horizon, Lenovo's aluminum-lidded laptop is more than a pretty face.Lenovo Chromebook C340 (11.6") Features11.6-inch 10-point IPS touchscreenAluminum lid, plastic bodyIntel Celeron N40004-8GB RAM, 32-64GB storageUp to 10-hour battery lifePretty pink or silver color optionsWhile last year's C330 skimped on ports, the Lenovo Chromebook C340 (also known as the C340-11) features a USB-A and USB-C p...
Want an antivirus app for your Android phone? Here are the best options
Free antivirus apps don't do much more than scan your device for existing threats. And because they are free, you can expect a lot of ads and a bit of slowdown because of the number of resources they use. After testing several free antivirus apps, my top pick is Sophos Intercept X for Mobile because of the extra security tools it comes with and how well it finds malware without causing too much drag.Best Overall: Sophos Intercept X for MobileThis app blocks calls and filters text messages for malicious links. Its QR scanner checks each link to make sure they are safe before connecting you or allowing a file to download. Sophos' anti-theft tools let you remotely access stolen phones to wipe data or reset passwords, send text commands to the thieves and track where your phone is.Sophos has a system scanner that looks for other security issues with your device and helps you secure them. This could be an outdated program or an app running in the background that doesn't need to be...
These are the cheapest data plans you can buy in the U.S.
Have a carrier in mind or just looking for a cheap plan? Here are the cheapest plans you can get from each one.If you want to save money on your phone plan, there are more options than ever from new ways to save on the major carriers or going with an MVNO. MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) or alternative carriers, lease coverage from the larger networks and resell it for less.That being said, depending on your usage and needs, a plan from one of the Big Four might be your least expensive option. Here we go.Before choosing a planBefore you choose a carrier and/or a wireless plan, it's best to first determine your needs and usage habits. If this is your first smartphone, I'd like to first welcome you to the 21st Century and secondly encourage you to try out your options without getting yourself into any yearly or multi-year contracts.If this ain't your first rodeo, then reflect on your phone habits from the past. How much data have you actually used in an average month...
The Galaxy S20+ is the best T-Mobile phone for most people
T-Mobile has a good lineup of phones at a variety of price points, ranging from the top of the line all the way down to affordable entry-level phones that you might not even need to finance monthly. Samsung dominates T-Mobile's high-end Android selection, but it's far from your only option.Best overallSamsung Galaxy S20+Staff pickThe Galaxy S20+ pretty much does it all. It has all of the latest and greatest specs, 5G support, an industry-leading display, amazing rear cameras that let you get a closer or wider shot at the touch of a button, and up to 30x zoom. Best of all, it's cheaper than the S20 Ultra and doesn't come with the same autofocusing issues.$1,200 at T-MobileProductivity flagshipSamsung Galaxy Note 10+The Galaxy Note 10+ is an incredible flagship, packing a huge 6.8-inch QHD display, a 4,300mAh battery, and of course, the S Pen. In addition to writing, drawing, and signing documents, the S Pen lets you control the Note 9 remotely, which means you can ...
Where to watch Trolls World Tour online
Movie theaters may be closed, but that's no excuse to forego movie night. Kids have been waiting ever-so patiently (or not so patiently) for the sequel to the 2016 hit animated film Trolls, and today, Trolls World Tour is premiering exclusively on digital retailers like Vudu, iTunes, and Amazon Prime so they can watch the film from the safe, cozy living room couch.Where to watch Trolls World TourApple iTunesAmazon Prime VideoVuduGoogle PlayFandango NowXfinityTrolls World Tour is not available to own at this time. All digital retailers are offering a 48-hour rental of the film priced at $19.99, and that's an important distinction you'll want to take note of before spending your money. You might balk at the thought of spending so much on a rental when most sell anywhere between $1 and $6, though it'd be wise to take how much you're saving into account as well.Imagine taking your children to see Trolls World Tour at the theater this weekend. Would it cost $20? Maybe $...
How does the PS5 DualSense compare to the DualShock 4?
Major upgradePS5 DualSenseLearn more at PlayStationProsAdaptive triggersImproved haptic feedbackLight bar surrounding touchpadNew textured grips, triggers, and thumbsticksUSB-C chargingBuilt-in microphone and create buttonConsSymmetrical thumbstick layoutLight bars still might drain battery There's good reason Sony didn't simply call this the DualShock 5. DualSense attempts to revolutionize the line with a more ergonomic form factor and features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that serve to enhance your immersion. It truly is the next big step that Sony is taking, and it speaks wonders for what the PS5 may be.On its way outDualShock 4$65 at Best BuyProsTouchpadShare buttonBuilt-in speakersLight bar used for certain gamesConsLight bar can drain the batteryGrips aren't comfortable to holdSymmetrical thumbstick layoutFace buttons and D-pad feel squishy to pressMicro-USB for chargingThe DualShock 4 added a light bar ...
How to get Chocobo Chick, Carbuncle, and Cactaur in Final Fantasy 7 Remake
What you pursue will be yours, but you will lose something dear…By now, you've probably learned that there are plenty of Summons in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, but did you know there are three summons you can only get based on how you purchased your copy of the game? Even if you got the right copy of the game, did you know these DLC Summons have to be added in separately? Lucky for you, we know exactly how to get your DLC Summons!What are the DLC Summons in Final Fantasy 7 Remake?There are a total of nine Summons that we know of in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, but three of them can only be obtained as DLC. These DLC are available depending on how you purchased your copy. If you preordered your copy —regardless of where you preordered it — you will get the Chocobo Chick Summon. If you purchased the Deluxe Edition or the First Class Edition, you will get both the Carbuncle Summon and the Cactaur Summon. These Summons have to be dowloaded separately and even then, you can't...
Getting the best of both worlds with a hybrid smartwatch
As much as we love the functionality that smartwatches offer, there's no denying that traditional, non-smart watches look way better more often than not. Thanks to the competitive market for hybrid watches, it's possible to get something that looks like a regular watch but still offers some of the best features of a smartwatch. If you think the hybrid life might be for you, here are the ones we recommend!A hybrid done rightFossil Hybrid HRStaff pickFossil is one of the most popular watch brands on the market and its hybrid models are no exception. The Fossil Hybrid HR boasts over two weeks of battery life and has heart-rate monitoring, activity tracking, smartphone notifications, and music controls. It's available in a variety of fashionable styles, too.$195 at Amazon$195 at FossilMinimal beautySkagen ConnectedOur first pick on this list is the Skagen Connected. The sleek, minimalist design is something we can't get enough of, with the 42mm case making this a...
Google Chat is back after a decade as Hangouts Chat drops the Hangouts
Hangouts Meet met the same fate yesterday.What you need to knowGoogle is renaming Hangouts Chat as Google Chat.The change comes after the company similarly dropped the Hangouts from Hangouts Meet.The consumer-oriented Hangouts app will keep its name, however, so the Hangouts brand isn't quite dead yet.When Google updated its support pages to remove the Hangouts from Hangouts Meet yesterday, we wondered if Hangouts Chat was also going to meet the same fate. Well, Google just confirmed today that it will and has officially renamed Hangout Chats as Google Chat.Despite not releasing an official statement on its blogs, the company confirmed its plans for a rebranding to The Verge. If you head over to the Google's support landing page and the page dedicated to the app, you can see the change is now in effect.The rebranding effort is far from complete, though, because not only does the Play Store listing still refer to Hangouts Chat — the same is true of Google Meet, by the ...
Apple and Google announce partnership to help track COVID-19 infections
Apple and Google are partnering up in a huge way.What you need to knowApple and Google are partnering to fight COVID-19.The companies are working on technology to help with contact tracing.They will use Bluetooth technology to help keep user privacy in check.Apple has announced a joint partnership with Google to assist governments and health agencies in fighting against the coronavirus pandemic. Apple made the announcement in a press release on the Apple Newsroom website this afternoon. "Google and Apple are announcing a joint effort to enable the use of Bluetooth technology to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of the virus, with user privacy and security central to the design."The companies have recognized contact tracing as a valuable tool in slowing the spread of the virus, and have committed to building a solution that uses Bluetooth technology to help track the pandemic. The companies say that using Bluetooth, rather than location tracking, ...
ROCKUBOT, the sterilizing robot that eliminates 99.9% of germs, is 20% off today
You don't need to be a hardcore germaphobe in order to understand the threat that germs and bacteria pose to our daily lives and wellbeing. Whether you're trying to rid your home of harmful elements that cause sickness or simply want to breathe cleaner air so you can increase your productivity, living in a germ-free environment is absolutely essential.But the truth is that hand-washing and basic sanitation methods only go so far when it comes to eliminating harmful germs and bacteria throughout the home.The ROCKUBOT: Sterilizing Robot takes cleanliness to an entirely new level by allowing you to eliminate 99.9% of harmful bacteria, germs, viruses and mites in just seconds, and right now it's on sale for over 20% off its usual price at just $99.95.Having been successfully funded on both Indiegogo and Kickstarter, this all-in-one sterilization tool will help you live a happier and cleaner life both at home and in the office.The ROCKUBOT uses state-of-the-art technology in order to...
Final Fantasy 7 Remake: What is Materia and where to find it
You know how to use this, right?Materia, the beautiful, luminescent crystals found throughout the world of Final Fantasy VII. All magic requires Materia and there are many, many Materia. Some are easy to find or even given to you as you progress in the game; while others can be missed if you don't have a careful eye. A few can't even be obtained until you've beat the game. Fortunately, we know where to find and how to use every Materia in the Final Fantasy VII Remake.What is Materia anyway?In the world of Final Fantasy VII, Materia are pieces of crystalized Mako, the lifeblood of the planet. These powerful crystals grant the holder the ability to cast spells, boost their stats, and even summon incredible spirits to fight alongside them in battle. In order to use magic in the Final Fantasy VII Remake, you'll need to scour each stage to find these glowing crystals. Fortunately, you can go back and replay using the Chapter Select feature in case you miss one.How do I equip Mat...
Should you buy the Fitbit Charge 4 or the Garmin Vivosport?
Endless detailsFitbit Charge 4$150 at FitbitProsOnboard GPS with 20+ exercise modesHeart-rate monitoringMobile paymentsSpotify Connect & ControlSeven-day battery lifeConsSlightly more expensiveLarger bodyThe Fitbit Charge 4 is the latest addition to the company's fitness tracker lineup. It's designed with in-depth activity and health tracking in mind, so you get every detail regarding your health easily. You'll also enjoy built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, 5 ATM water resistance, and seven days of battery life.For casual athletesGarmin Vivosport$126 at AmazonProsOnboard GPSHeart-rate monitoringMusic controlsAlways-on color displaySeven-day battery lifeConsMore affordableLess appealing designIf you want accurate fitness tracking but don't have a deep desire for extras, you might prefer something a bit more simplistic like the Garmin Vivosport. You'll still have the essentials, like built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, 5 A...
Google just added its logo to the Gboard spacebar and people are hating it
The Google search button has also gone away.What you need to knowThe spacebar in Gboard for Android now has 'Google' branding on it.Users on reddit as well as Google's Android Help forum are criticizing the search giant for the move. In addition to the 'Google' branding to the spacebar, the latest Gboard update also removes the Google Search button.Google's Gboard is one of the most popular popular keyboard apps for Android, thanks to its smart features and an intuitive design. Google is now rolling out two major changes to Gboard, both of which seem to have annoyed a large number of users. Many users have taken to reddit and Google's Android Help forum to voice their displeasure over these changes.Gboard for Android now has the Google logo on the spacebar, while the Google search shortcut has disappeared. Google reportedly began adding its logo to Gboard roughly a month back, although the change now appears to be a lot more widespread. Since it appears to be a server-s...
Bring the theater experience home with LG's SK9Y Soundbar now down to $240
No one is missing the overpriced popcorn and soda, but with theaters closed around the world for the time being, the glorious big screen and hi-def audio of a cinema is something we all could really use right now as a minor break from everything going on these days. Since it'll be some time before movie theaters are re-opened to the public, you may want to start thinking of improving your home entertainment setup instead.Today only, Woot has the LG SK9Y 5.1.2-Channel High-Res 500W Soundbar on sale in refurbished condition for just $239.99. That's a far cry from its original cost of $899.99, and even refurbished models tend to go for $600 and up through other retailers.LG's SK9Y soundbar brings Dolby Atmos audio to your living room, allowing sound to come from around and above you for a three-dimensional auditory experience unlike anything you'd hear from most soundbars around today's price. You just want to keep in mind that only select titles offer Dolby Atmos audio at this time...
Daily Coronavirus updates: Amazon sets up its own testing lab for COVID-19
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 1.6 million and fatalities of over 97,200 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 10, 2020: Amazon sets up COVID-19 testing lab, Microsoft delays NeoCOVID-19 cases have crossed 1.6 million, with the U.S. tally going up to 466,000. Global fatalities stand at...
Here's how to see and respond to notifications on your Fitbit device
Fitbit wearables have been able to relay notifications from your smartphone to your wrist for several years now. One of the great things about using a Fitbit tracker or smartwatch with an Android device is that not only can you receive notifications, but you can also respond to many of them directly from your wrist. I'll show you how to set up your notification preferences inside the Fitbit app so that you can better manage your distractions when out and about.How to manage notifications on your FitbitOpen the Fitbit app.Tap on your user icon in the top left corner.Locate the device you want to manage and tap on it.Scroll down and tap on Notifications under the General section.If you haven't already, tap to Enable Notification Service on your phone.Confirm in your phone settings that you wish to allow Fitbit to send you notifications by tapping Allow for the access it requests.You can tap into specific types of notification preferences like Text Messages to tell your d...
Call of Duty: Mobile is the first mobile game I've fallen in love with
This is legit CoD in your pocket, and that's kind of magical.Call it a basic or an uninventive series if you want, but I've been a Call of Duty fan for years. I remember putting hours into Call of Duty 2: Big Red One on my PlayStation 2, with that introduction to the series leading me to keep playing every new entry following that. I remember getting giddy the first time I played zombies in World at War, freaking out when I discovered you could get out of the chair on the menu screen for Black Ops, and yelling at my TV with tears in my eyes during the "Loose Ends" mission in Modern Warfare 2 (you know the one I'm talking about).Call of Duty has been and continues to be one of my favorite video game series, but as I've grown older and have less time to dedicate to playing games in front of my TV, my gaming sessions have gotten a lot less frequent than I'd like.When Call of Duty: Mobile was announced, I was initially apprehensive about the title. As much fun as I have with Call o...
Working from home gets better with 15% off Satechi office essentials
With social distancing measures in place, this year's Easter celebrations will be a little bit different around the world. Kids might not be out hunting for eggs, but you can still search and find some stellar deals over the weekend. Satechi's Easter sale kicks off today with a promo code to save you 15% on your order, though it's only good through Sunday, April 12. Simply enter code SPRING15 during checkout to score the discount. Satechi includes free standard shipping on orders totaling $40 or more.Satechi is donating 5% of the proceeds from this weekend's sale to Project C.U.R.E., an organization currently working to provide important resources and supplies to hospitals and first responders.Satechi has a myriad of products to make working from home more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for tech to help out in the office for work or around the home for casual use, Satechi has a ton of options to help keep you connected.Take this Satechi USB-C 75W Travel Charger for example. ...
You get to choose three of the six main characters in Trials of Mana
Some characters pair better than others since each one has a distinct fighting style and storyline.At the beginning of your Trials of Mana adventure, you'll be asked to choose three of the available six main characters. That means that there are 20 different team combinations possible. Each character has it's own fighting style along with different stats. So, you'll want to choose a good range of fighting types to have a well balanced team. Additionally, the origin stories, main villains, and relationships between each of the characters is different depending on who you pick. Two of the characters can even have a romance. So, the story will be affected depending on which characters you choose. That means that there's plenty of replay value in this game. Especially since you might not uncover the full story in your first playthrough.Here's a breakdown of each of the six main characters from Trials of Mana and the three villains along with recommendations for which characters you s...
Grab the Seagate Backup Plus 5TB hard drive on sale for $87 from Staples
The Seagate Backup Plus 5TB external hard drive is down to $86.99 with code 81126 at Staples. The code takes $25 off any order over $100, so you could technically use the code on just about anything meeting that criteria. The reason it's a good choice for the Seagate hard drive is that the drive is already discounted by about 15% with its selling point of $111.99. The extra $25 off brings it down to a super low price. The black version of the drive, for example, is still at $130, so the savings wouldn't be as good there.You can get the drive for $87 in Red or Blue. The next best price anywhere is Costco where the drive goes for $100 if you're a member.The Seagate Backup Plus is historically one of the best external hard drives around. It has always been a top contender even though it has been around for a while. It's sleek, lightweight, and has a large capacity for its size. It's extremely portable and designed to be slipped into any pack on your way out the door. Use it to keep ...
Why do you like OnePlus phones?
Chat it up with the AC forums.Next week is going to be an exciting time for the Android space. On April 14, OnePlus will finally be unveiling its highly-anticipated OnePlus 8 series for the world to see.OnePlus phones are always fun to look forward to, as they tend to deliver top-of-the-line specs and great software at an incredible price.Some of our AC forum members recently got to talking about why they're so fond of OnePlus, saying: the_boon 04-05-2020 09:36 AM “ I find Oxygen OS to be the best Android skin I've ever used. But the hardware it runs on leaves to be desired. Reply Morty2264 04-05-2020 10:05 AM “ OnePlus is a fantastic manufacturer. I love their phones. I was hooked since the OnePlus 3T and then the 5. The only reason why I have yet to buy one of their products - well, t...
Selling the Big Easy live stream: Watch the new HGTV series online
If you're in the market for a new home or enjoy watching home improvement shows, then HGTV's new series Selling the Big Easy might just be for you. The show follows New Orleans native and real-estate expert Brittany Picolo-Ramos as she tries to help families find the home of their dreams and we'll show you exactly how to watch it either online or on TV from anywhere in the world.Selling the Big Easy gives audiences a first hand look at the New Orleans real estate market as Brittany and her full-service agency show prospective home buyers high-end homes with the right mix of history and charm. Brittany also helps clients stage and sell their homes for top dollar in the city's vibrant real estate market.For those who have travelled to New Orleans before, you'll easily recognize some of the city's most iconic neighborhoods including the French Quarter and downtown. However, the show will also give us a glimpse into some luxurious properties in Covington, Louisiana, the Metairie subu...
AccuWeather's Android app gets a fresh redesign as Dark Sky goes away
It may take at least a few weeks for the brand-new UI to become widely available for Android users.What you need to knowAccuWeather has started testing a completely new UI for its Android app.Key highlights of the redesign include more prominent MinuteCast forecasts, a new logo, as well as a bottom bar to provide easy access to hourly and daily forecasts. To try out the new UI, you can sign up for the beta testing program on the Play Store.Late last month, Dark Sky announced it had been acquired by Apple and that its Android app would be shut down this summer. While the Dark Sky app is no longer available for Android users, there are a number of weather apps out there that offer great functionality and a pleasing UI. AccuWeather, which is among the most popular weather apps on Android, is now testing an all-new UI for its app, which will make it a lot more attractive to Dark Sky users. As spotted by the folks over at Android Police, the new UI makes it easier for ...
Alienware's new 25-inch 240Hz gaming monitor has dropped in price to $395
The brand new Dell Alienware AW2521HF 25-inch 240Hz gaming monitor has gone on sale for the first time, dropping to $394.99 through the Dell website. That's a nice discount off its MSRP of $525. This monitor isn't sold anywhere else and hasn't been around long enough for third parties, so not only is this the best price — it's the only price.The monitor was first introduced at CES 2020, and it only released in early March. The screen hasn't even had time to go on sale much, so we're looking at the lowest possible price. And given the features of this monitor, it's quite the bargain.The AW2521HF is a display built for competitive gamers. While some might scoff at the 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution (compared to something like 1440p), the main focus of this monitor is the 240Hz refresh rate. You can't get a refresh rate like that at a higher resolution without a huge jump in cost, and 240Hz is what you're looking for if you're a super competitive gamer. Planning to go hard in a new ...
Why I gave up on general-purpose smartwatches and got a Garmin for running
When your watch is capable of so much, it's unlikely to master any one task.After spending years using general-purpose smartwatches, primarily from Samsung or the myriad of options with Wear OS, it's clear that none of them is up to the task of being a capable running companion. If you care about fitness, you need a fitness-focused smartwatch, in my case a Garmin for running, in order to get the best experience for your core use.These smartwatches are capable of doing so much that they end up being a master of nothing — and while I appreciate their capabilities overall, my primary focus right now is running, and for that task, there's nothing better than a Garmin. I've been using a Forerunner 245 Music, and I'm not going back.Consistent GPS accuracy is the most important featureOf all the features you look for in a fitness-focused smartwatch, GPS consistency is the most important when you're running (or walking, biking, hiking). After months using the Galaxy Watch Active,...
Save $200 on one of the best smart displays out there, the JBL Link View
The JBL Link View with Google Assistant 8-inch smart display is down to $99.99 at Best Buy. That's $200 off the regular price, which you can still find at retailers like Target. We have seen it drop as low as $95 before, but today's sale is only $5 off that mark and that's the lowest it has ever gone. The savings at this price do not last very long, so grab it while you can.Our review of the Link View gave it 4.5 stars and called it the "best-sounding smart display yet." The review went on to add, "Its design may not be as functional or aestheticly pleasing as its competition, but when you add together the excellent sound quality, video camera, HD display, and snappy software performance, that one gripe quickly fades into the background."This is both a smart speaker and a very good 8-inch display. It has Google Assistant inside so you can control the speaker with your voice. That lets you ask questions or control your smart home without using your hands. If you need to use your h...
How to easily back up your photos and videos to the cloud
How do I back up my photos and video?You have all these awesome photos and videos on your phone, but what happens when you decide to buy a new phone or your on-device storage becomes too full to take any more? Since some phones these days don't give you the option to back up to a microSD card, that leaves one solid option: back it all up to the cloud!There are a few incredibly easy-to-use apps that let you store your photos and videos in the cloud.How to back up your photos and videos to the cloud using Google PhotosHow to back up your photos and videos to the cloud using Google Drive and Google OneHow to back up photos and video to the cloud using DropboxHow to back up your photos and videos to the cloud or your computer using Google PhotosGoogle Photos is one of the best ways to store, backup, and view your photos if you have a smartphone. It will also seamlessly upload them to your Google account storage. If you don't have it for some crazy reason, get it. It's a...
Chase is cutting the annual fee for some of its Sapphire Reserve customers
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.Chase wants to make this a little easier for Reserve customers.What you need to knowChase is giving Reserve cardholders a credit towards their annual fee.The company will give $100 fee credit to customers.It will be applied automatically for customers with a renewal date of April 1 – July 1, 2020.In an effort to assist its Reserve cardholders during the coronavirus pandemic, Chase has announced that it will be offering customers a credit towards their annual fee.If your Reserve card's renewal date falls between April 1st and July 1st, you will automatically receive a $100 credit towards your annual fee. A spokesperson from Chase said that the customers will be notified of the credit an...
The Pixel 4a XL may have been canceled but it just showed up on eBay
The Pixel 4a is currently rumored to arrive in only one size.What you need to knowGoogle is rumored to be launching a Pixel 4a in or around May.Just before launch, a white Pixel 4a XL back cover has just made its way to eBay.The 4a is now said to be coming in a single-size, making it likely that this reflects canceled plans.Google is said to be launching a Pixel 4a pretty soon, and a photo of what is purported to be the XL version of that has just shown up on an eBay listing. To be clear, it's a white replacement back cover for the Pixel 4a XL. It's a little out of left field, and the design is a little bit different from the Pixel 4 and 4a when it comes to the camera bump as it retains the diamond shape of the former while adopting the larger holes of the latter.Given that the current word on the street is that the Pixel 4a will ship in a single-size only and that it'll be in two colors — black and blue — it's probable that this shell reflects Google's original pla...
The Galaxy S20+ is big, pretty, but fragile — protect it with a clear case
Samsung made yet another beauty with the Galaxy S20+, so I understand not wanting to hide its splendor inside a bulky, blocky tank of a case. That said, this is also a very expensive phone that's completely wrapped in glass, so please, please, please protect your gem of a phone with a clear case. There's no reason not to when they look this good!Grippy clear caseCaseology Solid Flex CrystalStaff pick$11 at Amazon$15 at CaseologyCaseology's take on the classic clear TPU case adds some subtle sculpting for air cushions around the corners and is remarkably grippy even without texturing. Microdots inside also help prevent splotching.Plant-based protectionTech21 Pure Clear$32 at Tech21 $40 at Amazon Tech21 makes the PureClear case with sustainable, plant-based materials, while also making it durable and drop-resistant. It also has a BioShield that's supposed to keep your phone clean and germ-free.Ruggedly handsomeESR Air Armor$11 at Amazon$16 at ESR...
Resident Evil Resistance has a roadmap of updates over the next few months
There's some updates on the way for this asymmetrical multiplayer title.What you need to knowResident Evil Resistance is an asymmetrical multiplayer game included with the purchase of Resident Evil 3.Capcom has revealed a roadmap showing the monthly updates that will be adding more to the game.The contents of most of these updates are currently unknown. Resident Evil Resistance may not be getting the same attention as the Resident Evil 3 remake it's included with but Capcom isn't leaving it high and dry. Today, Capcom shared a roadmap of updates that players can expect over the next few months.Brave survivors and sinister masterminds: Take a peek at our Resident Evil Resistance title roadmap. Jill Valentine will be available as a survivor starting April 17th, but rest assured that more content is coming over the next few months! pic.twitter.com/wxdWyBy7G4— Resident Evil (@RE_Games) April 9, 2020Jill Valentine, the star protagonist of Resident Evil 3, is coming as a ...
Not feeling Fitbit Premium? Here's how to cancel your subscription.
Fitbit's Premium subscription service provides in-depth insights, analytics, and guided plans to help you take the data collected by your Fitbit device and translate that into action plans for a healthier body and mind. However, the service isn't right for everyone, and if you signed up and now regret it, it's pretty easy to cancel. We'll show you how below.How to cancel Fitbit Premium on the webIn your browser of choice, log in to your account at coach.fitbit.com.Click on your name at the top right of the page.Scroll down and click on Settings.Scroll further down and click on Subscriptions and Payments.Here you can click on your plan and cancel it, effective the end of its term.If you are still within your free trial period, you will follow the same steps listed above.Note that if your free trial has expired, all sales are final and non-refundable. So if you signed up for a month-to-month plan, you'd only be out the $9.99 for that month. However, if you signed up ...
Is one feature worth it between the Ring Video Doorbell 3 models?
The complete pictureRing Video Doorbell 3 Plus$230 at AmazonProsPre-Roll video2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi 1080p HD videoAdvanced Motion DetectionConsNo Google Assistant integrationA bit priceyThe Ring is bringing you some new features with its Video Doorbell 3 Plus. The addition of Pre-Roll video gives you four seconds of video before the detect event. This is very helpful in getting a better idea of what happened leading up to the notification from your doorbell.A solid upgradeRing Video Doorbell 3$200 at AmazonPros2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi 1080p HD videoAdvanced Motion DetectionLess expensiveConsNo Pre-Roll videoNo Google Assistant integrationThe Ring Video Doorbell 3 carries all of the same upgrades as the Plus version, aside from the higher price tag and the Pre-Roll. The Ring Video Doorbell 3 is a quality upgrade over Ring Video Doorbell 2 due to the addition of the 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi and Advanced Motion Detection.The Ring V...
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