Latest from Android Central

The Moto G8 will be Motorola's first G series smartphone to feature a hole-punch display.What you need to knowLeaked renders showing the upcoming Moto G8 have surfaced.The smartphone is expected to feature a 6.39-inch HD+ display and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 665 chipset. It will likely debut at MWC 2020 in Barcelona next month, alongside the Moto G8 Power. In October last year, Motorola took the wraps off the Moto G8 Plus and Moto G8 Play smartphones at an event held in Brazil. The Lenovo-owned company's budget smartphone lineup is soon expected to be further expanded with the launch of the standard Moto G8 as well as the Moto G8 Power. Key tech specs of the two upcoming phones have now leaked online, along with renders of the Moto G8.The Moto G8 renders shared by the folks at 91Mobiles reveal a hole-punch display and a design that looks fairly similar to the Motorola One Action. It is likely that the G8 will be Motorola's first G series smartphone to have a hole-punch disp...

Samsung's Android 10 update, called One UI 2, is a solid upgrade overall. But as is always the case, there are unforeseen quirks and issues associated with updating a phone in place that already has apps and months of data on it. One such issue that's affecting people is Gmail notification issues, which is very similar to a problem that Note 10 owners faced with early versions of its software. If you're having problems with your Gmail notifications after updating, we have the solution!How to fix Gmail notifications on One UI 2Open up your Settings.Go to Device care and tap on Battery.Tap on App power management.Tap on Sleeping apps and see if Gmail is listed.Long-press on Gmail and then tap Remove at the bottom of the screen.If you want to remove any other apps while you're here, you can do so at the same time by checking the box next to the apps.If Gmail is not listed under "Sleeping apps," you can specifically make sure it's never slept by going to Apps that won't...

What are the best Android RPGs?Role-playing games are wonderful, story-driven experiences that complement the mobile gaming experience nicely. Despite the relatively tiny mobile screens we're used to (yes, 5.7 inches is still small by gaming standards) RPGs allow us to get lost in fanciful worlds for a while.In the case of some games, especially those ported over from PC, that "while" could be 20 or 30 hours! This makes the best RPGs worth their price in the Google Play Store. There are some duds in there, so we've hand-picked the best of the best to save you the trouble of digging.If you're looking for more than just RPGs, be sure to check out our roundup of the best Android games of the year!BattleChaser: NightWarFinal Fantasy Chrono TriggerEvoland and Evoland 2Arcane Quest 3Crashlands Baldur's Gate and Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of AmnThe Bard's TalePocket MortysStar Wars: Knights of the Old RepublicDragon QuestEterniumDungeon Hunter 5BattleChasers: NightWar...

The foldable phone will ship with a pre-installed screen protector.What you need to knowA new rumor claims Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Flip will be priced at $1,400 in the U.S.The foldable phone is likely to go on sale in the country on February 14 as an AT&T exclusive. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Flip alongside the Galaxy S20 trio on February 11.A report published by The Korea Herald late last year had suggested Samsung's next foldable phone would be priced at under $1,000. Earlier this month, another report out of Korea claimed that the company's upcoming clamshell foldable, dubbed the Galaxy Z Flip, will be priced around $1,000. However, leaker Max Weinbach has now claimed in a tweet that the Galaxy Z Flip will actually be only slightly more affordable than the Motorola RAZR.Just head from a new source:Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip will likely launch on February 14th. It retails at $1400. It's possible it is an AT&T exclusive again, but this time it m...

The data sent by the Ring app helps analytics and tracking companies form a unique picture of your device.What you need to knowAn investigation by EFF has revealed that the Ring doorbell app for Android is laden with third-party trackers.The trackers reportedly send out sensitive information such as the customers' names, sensor data, private IP addresses, and more. Ring app has been found to deliver users' personal information to four analytics and marketing companies – Facebook, MixPanel, AppsFlyer, and Branch. An investigation carried out by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has revealed that the Ring app for Android is "packed" with third-party trackers, sending out a wide range of personally identifiable information (PII) to analytics and marketing companies.The EFF investigation found that Ring for Android v3.21.1 sends users' personal information to four analytics and marketing companies: Facebook, Branch, AppsFlyer, and MixPanel. Facebook receives alerts w...

Important improvementsSkagen Falster 3$295 at AmazonProsBetter performance + storageNew Snapdragon Wear 3100New smart battery modesLarger case sizeBuilt-in speakerConsExpensiveIf you had your share of issues with the Falster 2, it's more than likely that the Falster 3 will solve most — if not all — of them. It offers the same core features with better performance, a bigger case, a built-in speaker, and more.Affordable predecessorSkagen Falster 2$149 at AmazonProsCrisp, clear display Onboard GPSGoogle PayHeart-rate monitoringActivity trackingConsMediocre battery lifeLaggy Snapdragon Wear 2100No built-in speakerThe Falster 2 succeeded in some key areas but failed in others. It's a solid smartwatch, but performance often falls flat. It can handle activity tracking and other basic functions, but don't expect much more.While the Skagen Falster 2 had some high points, the lows are what stuck out to most users. The laggy pe...

Right now, the best smartwatch for Android users is the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2. It's optimized for Samsung phones but runs well on all Android devices and has all the smartwatch and fitness features you'd expect. It's compact and lightweight but still offers good battery life. But if you're not into that one, the good news is that there are so many other amazing options from Fossil to Garmin to Fitbit and more.Best Overall — Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2You don't have to use a Samsung phone to enjoy the benefits of owning a Samsung smartwatch, and the Galaxy Watch Active 2 provides the most well-rounded wearables experience for Android users right now. It's compact and lightweight but features an extremely sharp and vivid touch display that's easy to navigate and fun to use thanks to the new capacitive bezel. The Tizen OS is smooth and battery-friendly, unlike Google's own Wear OS, and while the app selection isn't massive, the core tenets are there, like Spotify, Stra...

All the info you need in one place.If you keep an eye on your local news channels, news apps, Twitter, etc., you've probably heard a thing or two about something called the "Coronavirus."There are a lot of outlets reporting on the disease and mobs of people saying a bunch of different things about it, and with so much conversation happening, it can be difficult to focus in on the core facts and get a general understanding of what's going on.In this article, we've put together a list of resources we recommend checking out to learn all about Coronavirus, what it is, what preventative measures you can start employing, and much more.Resources you should knowCDCIf you want an easy one-stop-shop to learn about Coronavirus, you can't go wrong with the Center for Disease Control's website. The Coronavirus page is broken up into four main sections, including:2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak InformationSymptoms and DiagnosisTransmissionPrevention & TreatmentThe first ...

Human beings are filthy, and as we use our phones anywhere and everywhere, we expose our phones to all that filth as well. And since you can't give your phone a hot, soapy shower every day like you do yourself, you should build yourself a cleaning kit to keep the grime and nastiness under control before those germs migrate back from your phone to you and get you sick.Clean screen on the goZEISS Mobile Screen Wipes (60ct Box)Staff pickIf you tend to need your screen clean when you're not home with your spritzer bottles, I absolutely adore these single-serve wipes. I keep a few of them in my bag for wiping my screen after it gets all sweaty and grimy when I'm out and about.$11 at AmazonLet there be lightPhoneSoap 3 UV Cell Phone SanitizerThis phone-sized tanning bed uses UV lights to kill the surface bacteria on your phone in order to keep the germs on your phone from getting you sick. I also run car keys and my credit cards through here from time to time.$80 at A...

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

The biggest NFL game of the year, Super Bowl 2020, takes place on February 2 which is less than a week away. Whether you are attending a party, planning to stay home, or will be traveling, one thing you may be wondering is how to watch the Super Bowl. Well, there are a lot of different ways, and a lot to know about the various ways.It's been a crazy season so far, and for once the New England Patriots won't be playing in the big game. This year, we have the San Francisco 49ers playing against the Kansas City Chiefs.Whether you care about football or not, there is a whole lot to enjoy about the Super Bowl. From the epic Super Bowl half-time performances to the amazing commercials that will debut, you are going to want to find a way to tune in and watch. Luckily, it doesn't matter very much where in the world you are located, it's pretty easy to find a way to tune in and watch the Super Bowl for free.How to watch Super Bowl 2020 online with a VPNA Virtual Private Network, or VP...

The ability to move multiple tabs to a new window is being ported from Microsoft Edge to Google Chrome.What you need to knowMicrosoft isn't only taking Google's browser tech for its own.The company is also contributing to the Chromium project.A feature found in Microsoft Edge is being ported over to Chromium and Chrome.While Microsoft may have thrown up its arms and submitted to Google's dominance in the browser space by porting Edge to the Chromium engine last year, there are certainly no hard feelings between the two tech giants.An exchange between a Microsoft and a Google engineer working on the Chromium project showcasing the collaborative spirit has been making waves in the Windows Insiders subreddit. In it, a Google's Leonard Grey asks Justin Gallagher from Microsoft if he'd be so kind as to help port a feature found in Microsoft Edge to the Chromium project — and to Google's own browser as a result. Gallagher graciously obliges, of course:Leonard Grey (Google):...

There's no ETA for when the ban will be lifted.What you need to knowThe Chrome Web Store will no longer accept paid extensions.Updates to paid extensions already published have also been blocked.The change in policy is a temporary measure aimed at halting a tide of fraudulent transactions involving the extension marketplace.While Google this week launched experiments that make its browser much harder to use, it's also been dealing with others' attempts to mess with Chrome. Over the weekend, Simeon Vincent, Extensions Developer Advocate at Google, told Chrome Web Store developers that the company was temporarily suspending all paid extensions.This means that paid extensions will no longer be accepted into the Chrome Web Store, and those that have already been published will no longer receive updates.Google explained the rather harsh change by referring to a recent uptick in fraudulent transactions involving the paid extensions. Vincent further clarified that this was not...

The bottom bar only has three buttons now.What you need to knowGoogle has redesigned its redesign for mobile Chrome.The bottom bar in the Duet design now has only three buttons.The home page has also been changed — and not in a good way.Google is once again tinkering with the design of its browser on mobile devices. Dubbed 'Duet,' the design aims to provide a more convenient browsing experience in today's world of 7-inch smartphones. The big change here is the company's decision to move many of the browser's tools and settings to the bottom of the screen, where they can more easily be reached via one-handed use.However, Google wasn't satisfied with its initial idea and moved the URL bar back to the top, leaving everything else below. Now, the company is fiddling around with the design again (via Android Police), seemingly because its engineers think five buttons on the bottom bar are two buttons too many; it was already struggling with figuring out how to cleanly incorp...

Can't make it to your Duo video call? You can now send a one-off note.What you need to knowGoogle is rolling out a new feature in Duo that lets you send one-off notes when you're unable to answer a video call.You get to choose from several background colors, fonts, and brushes.The feature will roll out globally this week to users on Android and iOS devices. Similar to calls and video messages, notes are end-to-end encrypted.Google is making the Duo calling experience that much more personalized by introducing a new notes feature. If you're unable to answer a video call on the platform, you now get the option to send a one-off note along the lines of "call you later," or "in a meeting right now."What's interesting is that you get a decent amount of customizability, with eight background colors, six fonts, and three brush strokes to choose from. You can also resize, move, and rotate the text to make your note that much more personal. Here's a better idea of what the notes ...

It's 2020, and flagship smartphones are all nearly a thousand dollars or more. But as high-end phones get more expensive, cheaper phones are getting better. Phones under $300 are beautifully designed, with great screens, super-long battery life, excellent cameras, and awesome speakers. We've researched and ranked all of the best cheap Android phones you can buy, and with our buyer's guide, you'll find the perfect phone for you.Best Overall: Moto G7The Moto G7 and its other budget counterparts on this list have impressive, high-resolution touchscreens, reliable software, and great cameras. Some features, like NFC, drive up manufacturing costs, so you have to weigh whether you need NFC-enabled features like mobile payments. And the Moto G7 also lacks the same graphical power as its more expensive competitors, but most games play without issue, even at medium or high settings, because Android games are designed to play on hardware of all sizes and prices.At the same time, Motoro...

We have just been duped, hoodwinked, bamboozled and quite possibly tricked.What you need to knowRespawn Entertainment has released a new video showing an interview with new hero Forge.In the interview, the mysterious Revenant makes a shocking appearance.Apex Legends Season 4 is set to begin on February 4.Just a short while ago, Respawn Entertainment announced Apex Legends Season 4. Beginning in February, this season was to include a new Battle Pass, a new weapon and a new hero named Forge for players to unlock. The key word being was.Respawn has just released a new video showing an animated interview with upcoming Legend Forge, who is sponsored by Hammond Robotics, a company you may remember from Titanfall and Titanfall 2, which are both set in the same universe that Apex Legends inhabits. In the interview, things take a bit of a jarring, messy turn.The assailant disposing of Forge is none other than Revenant, who has been teased in the past. The implications of thi...

Today, doorbells are better than they've ever been before. Thanks to the rise of smart video doorbells, you no longer have to stress about who might be showing up to your home when you weren't expecting anyone. Instead, you can look on your phone, see who it is, and even talk with whoever's at your door. If you rely on the Google Assistant for controlling all of your smart things, these are the doorbells you'll want to check out.Best overallStaff pickGoogle Nest HelloThe Nest Hello is at the top of our list for good reason. Its camera records video at a resolution of 1600x1200 in HDR and with up to 30 frames-per-second (FPS), giving you a crystal clear view of everything. It also has night vision, supports 24/7 continuous recording, and can detect specific faces when you buy a Nest Aware subscription. It also boasts 128-bit encryption with support for two-step verification!$220 at WalmartFree cloud storageRemoBell SThe RemoBell S just might be one of the bes...

You'll get a look at the next chapter of Battlefield V very soon.What you need to knowBattlefield V was first released on November 20, 2018.Since then, DICE has released several new updates, content additions and balance patches to adjust the game.Battlefield V Chapter 6: Into the Jungle is being revealed tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. EST. You can grab Battlefield V on PlayStation 4 for $21 from Amazon. Battlefield V is still getting new updates from DICE. Just last month, the Wake Island map was added in a free update. Now, DICE is teasing players with the next big step for the game. Battlefield V Chapter 6: Into the Jungle will be revealed tomorrow through a YouTube video. It will premiere at 9:00 a.m. EST. You can find the link to the premiere video on YouTube below.The video will show a full gameplay reveal and feature breakdown, giving players an idea of what to expect. We'll be sure to provide an update on any major new additions this chapter brings to Battlefield V....

January 19, 2021, is the day the service goes dark.What you need to knowGoogle is killing off App Maker, its low-code development platform.The service will shut down on the 19th of January 2021.Google cites low usage as the reason for the service's demise and points users to alternate services.Google is killing off App Maker, its low-code, drag and drop app creation tool for businesses. The firm made this announcement in a G Suite post this week, alongside a timeline for the service shut down.Here's how App Maker will slowly be shut down:Today, existing apps continue to work. Though App Maker is no longer under active development, the service will continue to be maintained.Starting April 15, 2020, you will no longer be able to create new App Maker apps. You will still be able to edit and deploy existing apps.Starting January 19, 2021, existing App Maker apps will stop working and you will no longer have access to them. App maker data stored in Cloud SQL will remain u...

It's tough to find a smart home product that doesn't connect to, or run, Google Assistant these days. No matter what size your room is, how much counter space you have in the kitchen, or what you need to control, Google Assistant is there. It's also an amazing platform for media, whether you want music, streaming video or an integrated TV experience. However, if you want the best of the best, these are some of our favorite picks.Assistant with a screenGoogle Nest HubStaff pickThe Nest Hub is a perfect upgrade for anyone who's fallen in love with their Google Home or Home Mini but wants the added benefit of a screen. Not only can it give you visual responses and watch YouTube videos, but the Nest Hub is also one of the best digital picture frames you can buy.$130 at Best BuyWorks with everythingSonos OneThe Sonos One might not look like much at first glance, but you'd be wrong to underestimate its discreet looks. For one thing, it's an incredibly powerful speaker w...

From $45 for a subpoena to $245 for a search warrant.What you need to knowGoogle will now be charging law enforcement agencies for data requests.Prices range from as low as $45 all the way to $245.Google reserves the right to charge more if the case demands it. Google will now charge law enforcement for surveillance data requests it fulfills, as per a new report from the New York Times.The firm, routinely subject to requests for data and wiretaps, will no longer be working for free. Google will now charge fees ranging from $45 for a subpoena all the way up to $245 for a search warrant. An extra fee could also be tacked on if the situation demands it.Google and other Silicon Valley firms have typically not charged for the fulfillment of law enforcement requests even though legislation has always allowed for that. It's likely that it'll be doing this to help recoup the costs of manpower and resources diverted towards fulfilling law enforcement requests.A former Google...

You won't need a credit card to unlock these cosmetics.What you need to knowDoom Eternal is currently being developed by id Software.Creative director Hugo Martin has confirmed there will not be any microtransactions.Doom Eternal is currently set to release on March 20.You can preorder Doom Eternal on PlayStation 4 for $60 at Amazon. While Doom Eternal is still a couple of months away, players can put any fears of in-game purchases to rest. Hugo Martin, the creative director of Doom Eternal at id Software, confirmed (via PC Gamer) that Doom Eternal won't have any microtransactions or an in-game store.Cosmetics that make you look different and stylish in Doom Eternal are unlocked with XP, with no secondary paid resources or direct purchases being necessary. XP can only be used to unlock cosmetics and is not how you improve your weapons, abilities, or progress in any other meaningful fashion during the campaign. "Eternal is a $60 game, not a free-to-play game or a mobile g...

Echo (3rd Gen)Standard-bearer gets better$90 at AmazonProsPlush styling like Echo Plus (2nd Gen)Much improved sound architectureNow available in twilight blueConsSits in weird middle ground of Echo lineupNo smart display or LED clock functionalityEven though it may not look like a major update, Amazon significantly improved the speakers in this standard Echo (3rd Gen) and made the design a little less stark with a more plush fabric and new twilight blue colorway.Echo Plus (2nd Gen)Smart speaker with home hub$150 at AmazonProsZigbee hub built-in for easy control of smart productsPremium sound compared to smaller EchosAvailable with a free smart bulbConsPossibly irrelevant with the new Echo (3rd Gen) releaseZigbee hub feature not something many will understandWith the changes to the Echo (3rd Gen), the Echo Plus (2nd Gen) days may be numbered. The two devices now look a lot alike and even have similar speaker setups. However, some m...

Still seeing the world through magenta-colored glasses.What you need to knowSprint announced Q3 results with losses and churn less than anticipated.Postpaid customer loss is accelerating and revenue is down compared to last year's Q3.The company hopes approval of its merger with T-Mobile will end its troubles.Analsyst predicted Sprint would lose 160,000 postpaid subscribers this past quarter, but the nation's fourth largest carrier instead lost 115,000 customers as more than expected stayed to take advantage of cheaper monthly plans. That amounts to 1.87% churn on postpaid subscribers, the most valuable category of cellular customer. This is still more turnover than the carrier saw at the same time last year, when churn was 1.75%. Revenue is also down year over year. "I continue to be impressed by the commitment of Sprint employees to deliver results during this period of uncertainty ... As we await a decision in the state attorneys general lawsuit, I continue to believ...

Your next flagship phone could have mid-range specs and you might never know. Or care.Phone hardware has come a long way in the past couple of years. If you step into the Wayback machine, you can remember that it wasn't so long ago that we were all wowed by a mobile chip that ran at 1GHz or had multiple cores, and it all pales in comparison to the bare minimum in phone hardware that we see in 2020.But have the things we want to do changed enough that we really need the most high-end chip Qualcomm has to offer in our phones? Especially when the company has moved the "mid-range" mark so high that it provides a fast, stable, and satisfying experience that includes great cameras, the latest wireless connectivity and even great gaming?More: Qualcomm brings flagship features to the mid-range categoryQualcomm unveiled new CPUs that offer advanced features typically reserved for high-end phones, like AI processing and gaming enhancements. The Snapdragon 730, 730G and 665 are supposed...

Some users have been able to get their devices working again, but the solutions aren't guaranteed.What you need to knowGoogle Home speakers are going unresponsive and displaying an orange LED light.The issue started last weekend and afflicted users registered in the Preview Program. Google support has acknowledged the reports but has yet to issue a response.Some Google Home speakers have become unresponsive over the past weekend, displaying only an orange LED indicator on the body of the device while being unresponsive to verbal commands. The issue began last weekend and appears to have accelerated as more and more users are sharing their experiences on Google's support forums.The issue appears to affect those who are in Google's Preview program for the most part. It's worth noting that the preview program isn't a beta, but pushes production software just a bit early - like an A/B test.It also only appears to affect regular Google Home speakers. Google Home Hubs and Goo...

ESPN+ is a streaming service offering from ESPN that offers live sports, original content, documentaries, and more. The way things are set up is a little different than the way most other streaming platforms operate, so there are a few things you'll want to know before getting started. The ESPN+ content actually lives inside of the ESPN app, which is available on just about all streaming hardware now.Within the ESPN app there is a separate section for the ESPN+ content, which has a fee of $5 per month to access. Whether you are looking to watch ESPN+ on your Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or even Android TV, the way you access it is very similar. Let's take a look at how to get started and watch ESPN+ content on your TV.How to WatchOn a TVFrom a phoneUsing a computerStreaming SportsESPN+$5 a month at ESPNStream your favorite sports from anywhereESPN+ offers sports fans an easy way to watch their favorite games and keep up with their teams for a truly affordable mont...

Google Assistant-powered speakers — such as the Google Home and Nest Mini — are excellent additions to any smart home. They look great, can be genuinely helpful for getting you through your day, and are perfect little devices for casual music listening. The out-of-the-box sound you get from the speakers is great, but with just a few taps, you can dive into their EQ settings for a more personalized experience.Products used in this guideSize doesn't matter: Google Nest Mini ($50 at Best Buy)Assistant on the go: Google Pixel 4 XL (From $899 at Amazon)How to change Google Home EQ settingsOpen the Google Home app on your phone.Tap the speaker you want to use.Tap the icon with three lines at the top-right of your screen.From this page, you can now adjust the bass and treble of your speaker. Increasing the bass will put more emphasis on the low-end of your music, whereas increasing the treble will accentuate the high-end.Feel free to play around with these settings ...

OnePlus has typically had weaker cameras than competitors.What you need to knowOnePlus will be focusing on its camera this year.The firm has committed to improving several aspects of its videography in 2020. In a Q & A session, OnePlus addressed issues raised by videographers and their responses to it. OnePlus' 2020 is off to a good start with its fluid display showcase dominating discourse. The firm isn't stopping there, it plans to improve one of the weakest points of its generally good phones - the cameras. Specifically, their video performance. Unlike iPhones, while Android phones take good to great photos, video performance is often poor to middling.OnePlus has committed to building out its video functionality in 2020 in response to community feedback, posting a list of questions raised and its responses to them. The firm has expressed a desire to improve exposure matching on all cameras, skin tone consistency, sharpness, and faster shutter capture times in 2020....

It's more than just a change of scenery but, for now, it's just a prototype.What you need to knowThe annual "Free Your Mind" event gives Blizzard developers the freedom to develop their own modifications and enhancements for popular games.One notable result from the recent event showcases a virtual reality Hearthstone experience that pits players against each other in a tavern.While this is just an experiment and has no release date, other experiments from this annual event have been brought to the consumer version of the game via updates.If you're a CCG (collectible card game) player, you'll know there's nothing quite like sitting at a table with a group of friends when you're playing cards. When Blizzard moved its World of Warcraft Trading Card Game from a physical medium to a digital one in 2014, it gained the popularity that was missing from the physical decks but lost something valuable in the process. VR is the perfect medium to use to introduce a more personal touch ...

What you need to knowNVIDIA unveiled the new remote design as part of Shield TV refresh in 2019.Features triangular design with motion-sensing back light, a remappable button, and built-in relocator function.It is now available for individual purchase direct from NVIDIA for $30.You can now buy the new NVIDIA Shield TV remote for $30, available direct from NVIDIA.When NVIDIA decided to refresh the Shield TV line up late last year, the new remote was easily one of our favorite new features. The fresh triangular design makes it way more comfortable to hold and the inclusion of remote basics such as a power and media control buttons — all which come to life with backlighting as soon as you pick it up — was a marked upgrade over older Shield remote's minimalist (to a fault) design.NVIDIA also included a user-programmable button that can be customized to perform a long list of handy functions. Other useful features include a remote locator function (that required setup thro...

Become the deity you always knew you could be.What you need to knowPatapon 2 Remastered was first announced back at PlayStation Experience 2017.It's a full 4K remaster of the original game.Patapon 2 Remastered is now set to come to PlayStation 4 on January 30.It'll be $14.99 USD. After first being announced at PlayStation Experience 2017, Patapon 2 is finally coming to PlayStation 4. As detailed on PlayStation Blog, Patapon 2 Remastered includes over 30 levels for players to explore in a full 4K remaster (on PlayStation 4 Pro) of the original game. You can check out a quick look at the gameplay below.Pata pata pata pon 🎶Patapon 2 comes to PS4 January 30! https://t.co/AGLyJ6Yqco pic.twitter.com/tmHzspd1Kb— PlayStation (@PlayStation) January 27, 2020Patapon is a series of 2D rythym games that were originally developed for the PSP. In addition to getting a good beat going, they also involve a high amount of strategy. Correct timing for the drumbeats is just as impo...

Even though NVIDIA no longer bundles its own gaming controller with the new NVIDIA Shield TV (2019), you're still able to use the tubular streaming device for gaming — you just need to connect your own Bluetooth controller. Here's how to get things set up.Products used in this guideBest Android TV: NVIDIA Shield TV (2019) ($150 at Amazon)Game on!: SteelSeries Stratus Duo ($36 at Amazon)How to pair a Bluetooth controller with the NVIDIA Shield TV (2019)From the Shield home screen, go to Settings.Select Remotes & Accessories.Select Add Accessory.Make sure your controller is in pairing mode and it should appear on the list of available accessories.If you're having trouble getting your controller to pair, try to place the controller closer to the Shield TV. This might be easier said than done given that the new Shield TV is designed to live behind your entertainment center among the cables, but it fixed the pairing issue that I was having.Once paired, you ca...

Sony is gearing up to release the PlayStation 5, its most ambitious console to date.While development on the PlayStation 5 has likely been going on for years, Sony has officially confirmed that it's in the works and is on its way for the holidays. Here's everything we know about the PS5 so far.PS5 designPS5 specsPS5 backward compatibilityPS5 next-gen DualShock controllerPS5 user interfacePS5 virtual reality supportOfficially named the PlayStation 5PS5 launch gamesPS5 costThe PS5 releases Holiday 2020PlayStation 5 What form will it take?According to a report from the Financial Times, sources familiar with Sony's plans have stated that the PlayStation 5 "might not represent a major departure from the PS4, and that the fundamental architecture would be similar." Mark Cerny, lead system architect of the console, went on to confirm as much in his interview with Wired.This indicates that Sony is not working on a streaming-only platform, though the future does look to...

The foldable phone ships with a 15W TurboPower charger and a headset adapter in the box.What you need to knowMotorola's $1,500 foldable RAZR is now available for pre-order in the U.S.Pre-orders can be placed from Verizon's online store for $1,500, or $62.49 per month for two years. The foldable phone is expected to begin shipping on February 14.Motorola's foldable RAZR, which was unveiled by the Lenovo-owned company in November last year, is finally available for pre-order in the U.S. The foldable phone can now be pre-ordered from Verizon's online store for $1,500. You can also choose to pay $62.49 in monthly installments over 24 months.While Motorola had said last week that the foldable phone would be available in stores from February 6, Verizon's website suggests it will begin shipping only by February 14. Apart from the U.S., the foldable RAZR is currently available for pre-order in the UK as well.As with Samsung's Galaxy Fold, Motorola has released multiple RAZR vid...

If you have small ears, chances are you've found it difficult to get a pair of headphones that are a good fit. There are virtually endless choices out there for audio gadgets in 2020, but finding ones that work properly in smaller-sized ears can still prove to be a pain in the butt. That's why we've done our homework and created a list of our favorite headphones/earbuds that are worth spending money on, even if your ears are smaller than the average Joe.Everything you needSoundPEATS Bluetooth EarphonesStaff PickKicking off this list, we've got earbuds from SoundPEATS. Available in two colors, these buds offer 10mm drivers for high-end sound with AptX support, up to 13 hours of battery life, and a full recharge time of fewer than two hours. The IPX6 water-resistance rating is great to have, as is the magnetic clasp to prevent the cable from tangling.From $25 at AmazonSurprise hitBack Bay Duet 50True wireless earbuds are enormously popular, and one of my favor...

Chatting it up with the AC forums.It's safe to say that 2020 is shaping up to be an exciting year for smartphones. Samsung's Galaxy S20 lineup will be here before you know it, pre-orders are now open for the Motorola RAZR, and the Google Pixel 4a is already looking like one heck of a mid-range option.Each new year brings a ton of new phones with it, but that's not to discredit what was released the year before. We saw plenty of top-notch options throughout 2019, including the Galaxy S10.The S10 is still one heck of a device nearly a year after its release, and in fact, it's so good that some of our AC forum members are thinking about keeping it for another 365 days. Mike Dee 01-23-2020 01:19 PM “ It depends.....I really want to wait for the Next Note but since i have both the S10+ and Note 10+ it would depend on how sweet the trade in deal would be for S10+ and how great the camera is on the S...

Google has the right idea with the wrong execution.2020 marks the fourth year that Google's Pixel phones have been out on the market, and since the original Pixel's launch in late 2016, the release pattern has been mostly consistent. Every year in October, Google takes the stage to unveil its latest flagship Pixel. This happened for the Pixel, Pixel 2, Pixel 3, and the Pixel 4.We get a regular and an XL model for those launches, giving people the choice to decide what size of a phone they want. This isn't unlike what we see Samsung and Apple do with the Galaxy S10 / S10+ and iPhone 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max. Last year, however, Google threw a wrench in this well-oiled machine with the release of the Pixel 3a and 3a XL. These were announced in May 2019 as budget models of the Pixel 3 and 3 XL that came out a few months before them, along with the Pixel 4 series looming its head right around the corner.Google's desire to have a budget/mid-range phone in its lineup makes sens...

Over 100 different winners were crowned in the Future Tech Awards, and Google was one of the biggest winners with five different awards. With over 200,000 votes cast, our readers voted for the Pixelbook Go as the Best Chromebook of 2019. In the smart home, Google Assistant was voted the best smart assistant, the Nest Mini was the Best Smart Speaker and the Nest Hub Max was voted the Best Smart Display.Alongside Google, there were wins for Samsung as the Galaxy Fold was voted the best mobile innovation in the Reader's Choice and Future Choice awards, while OnePlus won Best Value Smartphone for the OnePlus 7T. The Google Home was also voted the Smart Home Product of the Decade, recognizing the impact it's had in transforming the home.The Future Tech Awards also played host to the annual Future Tech Hall of Fame, recognizing the lifetime achievements of the following individuals:Lisa Su, President, and CEO, AMDJason Johnson, Co-founder and CEO, August HomeMarques Brownlee, MKBH...

The foldable phone may also include an S Pen.What you need to knowA new rumor suggests the true Galaxy Fold successor will be launched in the second quarter of the year.The foldable phone is tipped to sport a bigger 8-inch display with ultra-thin glass on top. It is also expected to feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 865 chipset, 5G connectivity, and a 108MP primary camera.Samsung is expected to announce its second foldable phone at the upcoming Unpacked event on February 11, alongside the Galaxy S20 series. Unlike last year's Galaxy Fold, the upcoming foldable, expected to be called the Galaxy Z Flip, will have a clamshell design and mid-range specs. According to leaker Max Weinbach, however, Samsung will be launching a true successor to the Galaxy Fold with bleeding-edge hardware in the second quarter of the year.I just got word that Samsung will likely be launching the true Galaxy Fold successor in Q2 of this year. If I've conglomerates all the different reports correctly, ...

If you're in the market for a new Android phone, you owe it to yourself to make sure it's an Android One device. Phones that are part of Google's Android One program come with a couple of significant benefits, including stock builds of the latest version of Android and guaranteed software updates/security patches. There are a lot of great Android One phones out there, but if you ask us, the Nokia 7.2 is the best you can get.Best Overall: Nokia 7.2Out of all the Android One phones you can buy in the U.S., our top pick has to be the Nokia 7.2. The HMD Global-led Nokia brand has been kicking out a lot of great smartphones over the last couple of years, and for the North American market, the 7.2 stands out as an incredibly strong offering.Nokia phones have a legacy for being well-built, and that point holds 100% true with the 7.2. It has a durable aluminum frame with a sleek glass back that looks and feels incredible. Around front, the 6.3-inch display is a joy to look at. Not on...

The phone is expected to be based on the Redmi K30 that was launched in China last month.What you need to knowPOCO will be launching a successor to the POCO F1 in India on February 4.The phone will be called the POCO X2 and is expected to come with an "extreme refresh rate'" display and liquid cooling technology. Under the hood, the phone is likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 730G chipset. Last week, POCO India General Manager C Manmohan had revealed that the company plans to launch a direct successor the POCO F1 in the country before the end of the current quarter. Now, POCO India has confirmed that its second Android smartphone, called the POCO X2, will debut at an event in New Delhi on February 4.An Xperience that will make you go, "Bruh, it's #SmoothAF". #POCOX2 is arriving on Feb 4th 2020.Want to know if your smartphone is Smooth AF? Visit now: https://t.co/LQqSvTpgLz pic.twitter.com/BB5RFQ8lVO— POCO India (@IndiaPOCO) January 27, 2020A dedicated website te...

With Disney Plus, we can now watch all of our favorite classic Disney films, as well as other content from Pixar, Lucasfilm, Marvel, National Geographic, and Fox, all in one place. Disney+ is still in its infancy though, so it's not uncommon to see playback issues, such as buffering, while watching your shows and movies. Luckily there's something you can do about it.Make sure your Internet speeds meet the minimum requirementsQuality of video played through Disney+ will depend entirely on your Internet connection speed. The quality automatically adjusts itself based on the speed available at the moment, so if it's fluctuating a lot, then it'll be very noticeable as you watch.For best video quality, Disney+ recommends the following:5.0 Mbps for High Definition content25.0 Mbps for 4K UHD contentMaintaining a consistent connection with those speeds will guarantee good playback quality. You should also check on how many simultaneous video streams or other high-bandwidth acti...

Wireless charging on Pixel phones has only been around for a year now, and after being hobbled on the Pixel 3, Google has answered our prays and made the Pixel 4 more widely compatible with fast Qi charging by supporting 10W charging on far more chargers through the Extended Power Profile. Whether you prefer vertical stands that you can use with Motion Sense's swift face unlocking and flat pads, there's ample options now for the Pixel 4.Nme-brand qualityAnker PowerWave PadStaff pickAnker's got a lot of wireless chargers out there, but this is one of the few of them that users have reported consistently fast charging the Pixel 4. Just make sure you use it with a QuickCharge 3.0 AC adapter to get that top speed.$42 at AmazonLooking slickYootech 15W Wireless Charger with Cooling FanThis 15W stand is more conducive to sitting next to your laptop at your desk or keeping your phone propped up in the kitchen while you're working on that new recipe, and the built-in fan s...

Finally. The most anticipated streaming service is here. Home to not just Star Wars, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and all your Pixar favorites, but educational entertainment like National Geographic and storied series like The Simpsons. Oh, and all the Disney movies and TV shows you could ever want to watch.Welcome to Disney Plus (Disney+).A magical streaming serviceDisney+$7/month at Disney+All your Disney favorites, and so much moreFrom DCOMs to National Geographic, from Marvel to Lucasfilm to 20th Century Fox and beyond, Disney+ delivers a streaming service for all ages.What is Disney Plus?When is my country getting it?All the devices you can watch Disney Plus onSo much to watch, here's where to startParental controls, profiles, and account limitsDisney Plus tips and troubleshootingWhat's the best price for Disney Plus?How Disney Plus stacks up to the competitionWhat is Disney Plus?Disney+ is a streaming service that brings together all of the conten...

Best answer: BLU has made affordable Android phones for years, but there have been security scares and a few disastrous bugs throughout its history. BLU phones can give a decent Android experience to users on a very limited budget, but it still hasn't completely won our trust back yet.Great budget pick: BLU VIVO XL5 ($120 at Amazon)BLU is a budget phonemaker with some black marks on its track recordIf you've ever looked for Android phones on a budget, you've probably seen at least a couple BLU phones somewhere in that selection. BLU's phones often serve up trendy new features and passable specs in phones that are highly affordable unlocked — and almost always free on carrier subsidy.While some BLU phones offer better performance than others — and thus better value — purchasing a budget phone is a matter of trust as much as it is price, and BLU has given users some doubts over the years:Back in 2016, some apps pre-loaded on BLU phones were found to have a backdoor tha...

NVIDIA updated its Shield TV consoles in 2019 and the new tube and Pro models are still the best Android streaming devices for gamers. There are so many great ways to play games on your Shield, from the growing collection of Android TV games available through the Google Play Store as well as AAA PC games streamed through NVIDIA's GeForce NOW service. If you want a controller or two for some couch multiplayer, you'll be happy to know that alongside its own excellent controller, the NVIDIA Shield TV offers Bluetooth support for other great gaming controllers.Specially designed by NVIDIANVIDIA Shield ControllerStaff PickThe NVIDIA Shield controller is designed to take full advantage of all that the NVIDIA Shield can do, with a built-in microphone for Google Assistant and a headphone jack, along with dedicated volume and Android system controls. It was released alongside the 2017 edition for the Shield TV but still works with the new model.$60 at Best BuyRetro gaming bliss...

It's a precarious balance between security, privacy, and convenience. A report from Reuters that Apple dropped plans for end-to-end encryption of iCloud backups after the FBI complained helps frame a conversation between Jerry Hildenbrand, Andrew Martonik, and Daniel Bader about the differences in approach between iOS and Android backup strategies. High value hacking targets such as Jeff Bezos also highlight security vulnerabilities.The crew also discuss backlash against Sonos regarding use of legacy products along side newer devices. Finally, they look at a leak of Android's competitor to AirDrop: Nearby Sharing.Listen nowSubscribe in Google Play Music: AudioSubscribe in iTunes: Audio Subscribe in RSS: AudioDownload directly: AudioLinks:Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sourcesDid the FBI get Apple to kill iCloud backup encryption?iMore show 689: E2E encrypted iCloud, iPad Turns 10Apple may have ditched encrypted backu...

You can play these great games without spending a dime.Have some time to kill and only your trusty Android phone to keep you company? Take a gander at some of the most exciting, engaging, and free games that you can download from the Google Play Store. We have a healthy mix, including shooters, puzzle games, racing, and lots more. If you're itching for something new and you're able to stomach a few in-app purchases prompts, read on!Pre-pay for Play PassGoogle Play Gift CardFrom $25 at AmazonPay to playGetting a play gift card is the safest way to load up your Google account with credit to use towards Play Pass without forgetting about it.Blow away your competitionCall of Duty: MobileFree w/IAPs at Google Play StoreStaff pickCall of Duty: Mobile is another free-to-play game that is buoyed by a premium Battle Pass system and in-app purchases. The good news is you don't need to spend any money to enjoy the best of Call of Duty action on your phone. The even...