Latest from Android Central

OPPO wants its displays to lead the next generation in smartphone entertainment.What you need to knowOPPO is teaming up with Pixelworks to power the displays of its next few smartphones.The first phone from this effort will land in the first half of 2020.The move comes as sister company OnePlus announces new display technology for its upcoming flagship as well. Forget cameras and processing power, screens are the latest arena where the spec wars are being fought in the 2020s. Girding itself accordingly, OPPO is teaming up with renowned display firm Pixelworks to help develop displays on its new smartphones. The firm wants to "push the boundaries of high refresh rate displays with key technologies from Pixelworks that enhance motion appearance, color depth and clarity of smartphone displays."Both companies expect to launch the first device built as a result of this collaboration in the first half of 2020. James Wang, VP, Supply Chain of OPPO said: It is our pleasure to...

No word on storage configurations yet.What you need to knowNotable leaker Ice Universe has suggested that all three Galaxy S20 series phones will come with 12GB of RAM as standard.It remains to be seen if Samsung will offer a 16GB RAM option for the Galaxy S20 Ultra. The Galaxy S20 series is set to be formally unveiled at Samsung's Unpacked event on February 11 in San Francisco. Notable leaker and industry insider Ice Universe had recently suggested that all three Galaxy S20 models will come with a 120Hz display. In his latest tweet, the leaker has claimed all Galaxy S20 models will have 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM as standard.The standard configuration：12GB LPDDR5— Ice universe (@UniverseIce) January 13, 2020If the information is accurate, it would mean the three Galaxy S20 models will be very similar to each other in terms of the core hardware specs. Last year, Samsung had reserved the 12GB RAM option for the most expensive Galaxy S10+ version with 1TB of storage. The Ga...

Update includes the December 2019 security patch.What you need to knowThe Android 10 update for the Xiaomi Mi A2 is now rolling out.The update weighs in at nearly 1.3GB and includes the December 2019 security patch.Some users on XDA have reported some minor bugs or glitches.The Xiaomi Mi A2 came out way back in 2018 and was one of the best Android One phones around when it hit the market. Our own Harish called it "a great sequel with a fantastic camera" in his review.Now, users of the nearly two-year-old phone have a reason to get excited, because Android 10 is officially rolling out for the device. One of the best parts of having an Android One phone, after all, are the updates. While Xiaomi may have taken a bit longer than some would have liked, at least the update has finally arrived.The Android 10 update weighs in at nearly 1.3GB and includes the December 2019 security patch. Like many updates, you can expect this one to roll out in stages. If you haven't received i...

Carli, Jen, and Rebecca discuss the PS 5 logo 'announcement' and an expansion to Pokémon Sword and Shield. They also talk about games they most look forward to in 2020, with some fun digressions along the way. Strong words!Hosted by: Russell Holly, Jennifer Locke, Carli Velocci, and Rebecca SpearGot feedback? Hit up Podcast@androidcentral.com and tell us something!LISTEN NOW:...

Best answer: Yes, physical discs will still be supported on the PlayStation 5, which includes an Ultra HD Blu-ray player.Go digital instead: PlayStation Store Gift Card (From $10 at Amazon)Can I use physical discs on PlayStation 5?Yes. Mark Cerny, lead architect of the PlayStation 5, confirmed that the PlayStation 5 has an Ultra HD Blu-ray player, which will allow the console to play games from physical discs as well as digital media. Cerny also confirmed that PlayStation 5 games are going to ship on 100GB Blu-ray discs.Using larger discs help prevent games from needing to ship on two discs, which is what started happening on PlayStation 4 with games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Last of Us Part II. Because games will be installing on an SSD, you should also see faster load times, though the exact boost of how much quicker games load will vary depending on the game and how it was designed.What about my PlayStation 4 discs?Your PlayStation 4 discs will also play on ...

The gaming smartphone will also offer 5G connectivity.What you need to knowNubia President and co-founder Ni Fei has revealed that the company's next flagship gaming smartphone will feature a 144Hz display.The gaming smartphone is likely to be powered by Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 865 processor. There is no word yet on exactly when the Red Magic series phone will be made official. ZTE's Nubia sub-brand launched multiple gaming smartphones last year, all boasting impressive hardware and gaming-centric designs. The company is now working on its next gaming flagship, which could be among the first phones to feature a 144Hz refresh rate display.Nubia President and co-founder Ni Fei shared a post on his Weibo page earlier today, revealing that the company's next Red Magic series smartphone with 5G connectivity will have a 144Hz refresh rate display.As can be seen in the screenshot shared by Fei on Weibo, the phone will allow users to choose from four different refresh ra...

Time to chat with the AC forums.As hard as it is to believe, the Galaxy Note 9 will turn two years old this August. Two years isn't a lot of time in the grand scheme of things, but in the smartphone world, it's basically a lifetime.The Note 10 from last year is Samsung's newest flagship, the Galaxy S20 should be unveiled next month, and then we have the Galaxy Note 11 to look forward to in the second half of the year.Even with all of that being the case, a quick look through the AC forums reveals that a lot of people are still perfectly content with their Note 9. Prince Aashiq 01-10-2020 11:44 PM “ Already its 2020, I Intend to keep my note 9 until late 2021, so interested to know what other people think about upgrade Reply mustang7757 01-11-2020 12:18 AM “ I think the Note 9 will go strong an...

Best answer: Yes, Tello does allow you to bring your own phone over to use with its service. So long as it supports CDMA networks and isn't locked down to another carrier, your phone will work great with Tello.BYOD: Tello (From $5/month at Tello)Perfect pairing: Google Pixel 3a ($399 at Amazon)Already have a phone? Bring it to Tello!Shopping for new phone service can often be a stressful task and one that you want to keep as simple as possible. Many carriers heavily advertise and push new phones on you if you're considering joining, but if you already own a phone that you really like, this can be the last thing you want to see.If you're looking into joining Tello, you'll be happy to know that Tello does allow you to bring your own phone over to use with its service. So long as it's compatible with Tello, you can bring it over, pop a SIM card in, and you're ready to rock and roll.It needs to support CDMA networksWhile Tello does allow you to bring your own phone, not ev...

A huge update is in the works for Microsoft Launcher on Android.What you need to knowA new version of Microsoft Launcher is now in preview.It features a new UI and rewrite of several key areas.This is also the Launcher that the Surface Duo will be based on.Microsoft has released a preview of the next version of its Microsoft Launcher for Android today, which features a rewrite of several key areas, along with a new user interface and features. This new version of the Microsoft Launcher comes in at version 6.0, and is its biggest update yet.This version of the Microsoft Launcher appears to be what the home screen experience on the Surface Duo will be based on, which means this preview gives us an early look at some of the experiences the Surface Duo will have to offer out of box. It features new icons, widgets, a landscape mode, and a rewrite of the activities area, apps list, dock, and search UI. It also revamped dark and light modes, and Microsoft is touting better memor...

Samsung's second foldable phone will not have the word "Fold" in its name.What you need to knowSamsung's upcoming clamshell foldable may be called the Galaxy Z Flip.The smartphone is expected to be unveiled alongside the Galaxy S20 lineup at an Unpacked event on February 11. It is tipped to be powered by a Snapdragon 855 processor and carry a significantly lower price tag than its predecessor. A report out of South Korea had recently claimed that Samsung had decided to call its next foldable smartphone the "Galaxy Bloom." If Industry insider and tipster Ice Universe is to be believed, Samsung's next foldable smartphone will actually be called the Galaxy Z Flip.Galaxy Z Flip pic.twitter.com/WKA5mpICVE— Ice universe (@UniverseIce) January 12, 2020As per Ice Universe, Bloom is just the device's codename. Its marketing name, however, will be the Galaxy Z Flip. While the name does make some sense, it is important to note that there is no solid evidence that can back up t...

Galaxy S10 LiteMore for less~$500 at SamsungProsSnapdragon 855 chipsetVibrant display48MP camera/32MP selfie camera4500mAh battery Android 10 with One UI 2.0ConsPlastic designNo headphone jackThe Galaxy S10 Lite eschews the metal-and-glass design for a plastic chassis, but it retains the high-end internals. The phone is powered by the same Snapdragon 855 chipset as the full-fledged S10 and S10+, and comes with a 48-megapixel camera, FHD+ AMOLED panel, as well as a 4,500mAh battery. The result is a standout device that offers the best features from the S10 series at a lower price point.Galaxy Note 10 LiteDo everything~$500 at SamsungProsHeadphone jackS Pen Vibrant displaySame 4500mAh batteryAndroid 10 with One UI 2.0 ConsNot launching in the U.S.Older Exynos 9810 chipsetThe Note 10 Lite is an interesting device — on the outset, there's plenty to like here. You get the same S Pen that's found in the Note 10/10+, and there's even a 3...

It's this year's SEC powerhouse against the defending National Champs. Who will roar loudest?The 2020 College Football Playoffs have already delivered amazing performances and memorable moments. Now it's time for the National Championship game, and these two undefeated teams earned their way by winning in the semifinals. The top ranked team in the nation will face the defending 2019 National Champions. You can stream this College Football Playoff National Championship game on ESPN even if you've cut the cord.When is the 2020 College Football Playoff National Championship?The 2020 College Football Playoff National Championship, featuring the LSU Tigers facing the Clemson Tigers, will be at 8 p.m. Eastern on Jan. 13, 2020. This game will be played at Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. This is the finals of the College Football Playoffs and it will be broadcast on ESPN.2020 College Football Playoff National Championship LSU vs. Clemson previewThe LSU Tigers (13-0) are the...

Why should I give the same data to two different companies when I only benefit from one of them?If you look around the web you'll probably see the general consensus is that the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 or 10+ is the best Android phone you can buy. It has the best screen, the most memory, the most storage, and beats the competition hands down in almost every way. Almost.There is one spot where Samsung has traditionally been very weak — writing its own software. It's getting a lot better at the user experience stuff — the latest version of Android 10 for Galaxy devices is both functional and good-looking. I'm talking about the low-level things, like an operating system.Phone battle: Google Pixel 4 XL vs. Galaxy S10+?That's why Samsung relies on Android. Android is designed and written for this very thing. A company like Samsung can build great hardware then use Android as a base layer for something to call its own. Be honest, would anyone really want to buy a Galaxy Note that...

The rugged mid-ranger will be sold via Verizon Wireless in the United States.What you need to knowSamsung will be bringing its new Galaxy XCover Pro to the U.S. market later this year for $500.The rugged Android smartphone comes with a 6.3-inch FHD+ Infinity-O display and a large 4,050mAh removable battery. Just like previous rugged Galaxies, the XCover Pro is MIL-STD-810G certified and also has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Samsung quietly unveiled the Galaxy XCover Pro last week, a new addition to its rugged smartphone lineup. The company has now announced that it is working with Microsoft and Verizon to bring the rugged mid-range phone to the U.S. market.The Galaxy XCover Pro boasts a relatively modern design with a hole-punch cutout at the top of the display and significantly thinner bezels compared to Samsung's previous rugged phones. It comes with a 6.3-inch FHD+ display, an Exynos 9611 octa-core processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB onboard storage. The...

OnePlus is all set to make the switch to a 120Hz display this year.What you need to knowIn a post on Weibo, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau revealed that the company has 'completed research and development' of 120Hz display tech.OnePlus is holding a Screen Technology Communication Meeting in China to highlight the work it has done around the 120Hz panel. The 120Hz screen will make its way to OnePlus' 2020 flagship, the OnePlus 8. High refresh rate panels were the defining trend of 2019, with most manufacturers offering phones with 90Hz displays. It looks like that's set to continue in 2020, with 120Hz displays set to become the norm. Xiaomi rolled out the Redmi K30 series with a 120Hz display, and Samsung's Galaxy S20 series is also heavily rumored to sport a 120Hz panel.OnePlus is now joining in on the action, with CEO Pete Lau revealing on Weibo that the company has "completed research and development" of 120Hz display tech. OnePlus is holding a Screen Technology Communication Mee...

There's also a single front camera nestled in the Infinity-O display, which is far less curved than Samsung's previous offerings.What you need to knowThe first live images of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S20+ have been leaked.They confirm previously leaked renders about its design, such as a quad-camera setup on the back.The phone's screen, though, marks a departure from Samsung's penchant for lustrous curves on its phones.Excitement for Samsung's upcoming series of flagships is running high, even a month before their release. And with the release of the first live images of the phones, the folks at XDA Developers have just added more kindling to the Samsung faithful's long wait till February.Courtesy of the site, we finally know what the Galaxy S20+ will look like — and how accurate previous renders of the series were. As it turns out, pretty accurate. The images show an identical camera array on the rear with four cameras stacked beside a flash module and what seems to b...

Best answer: Amazon Echo Show devices support live TV via Alexa skills such as those from Food Network, Bloomberg, and Hulu. You can also watch live TV with the addition of a Fire TV Recast device, or directly on the Echo Show through Amazon's Silk or Mozilla's Firefox web browsers.Show me my shows: Amazon Echo Show (2nd Gen) ($230 at Amazon)Next-gen DVR: Amazon Fire TV Recast (From $230 at Amazon)What's an Amazon Echo Show?The Echo Show line of devices combine the best of the Amazon Echo speakers and Amazon's Alexa voice service with touchscreen displays to give you multitouch controls, audio feedback, and video capabilities. You can do everything you'd do with a traditional Echo speaker, such as ask Alexa questions, make voice calls, set timers and alarms, plus you have the ability to do video chats or watch videos from a variety of popular content sources.Echo Show devices are available in multiple sizes, including the "mini" Echo Show 5, the "just right" Echo Show 8,...

Keep those Tweets protected!Twitter. Some people love it, some people hate it. No matter your take, you should ensure that your account is as safe as can be if you use the social network.To make sure unwanted eyes aren't accessing your personal info, we recommend changing your password and enabling two-factor authentication if you don't have it turned on already.Without further ado, let's get started.How to change your Twitter passwordTap your profile icon in the upper-left corner of the Twitter app on your phone.Tap Settings and privacy.Tap Account.Tap Password.Enter your current password.Enter your new password twice.Tap Update password.After entering your info, you'll see a small pop-up at the bottom of your screen letting you know your password has successfully been changed.Make sure you create a password that's strong with a mix of lowercase/uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters. If you use a password manager like 1Password or LastPass, you...

Show us what you're working on more often.The OnePlus Concept One was, frankly, not that exciting — at least, as far as concept devices go. The whole point of a "concept" is to show how the company is breaking barriers and working on new things, with the freedom of knowing it doesn't have to be finished, functional or tied to a release date. And in this respect, OnePlus didn't go nearly far enough — the electrochromic glass is amazing, but it's the only concept-worthy component of a phone that's otherwise completely within the realm of what's possible on a mass production scale today.But OnePlus fully deserves credit for actually showing off a concept phone, rather than keeping everything under wraps. I sure wish more companies would start doing the same — be it at a trade show like CES, where OnePlus was one of few phone announcements, or simply at any time with an online-only push. The biggest Android fans crave leaks — so give them more to chew on.The biggest An...

The internet and social media have changed the way companies market products and services. To keep up with the competition, companies must hire digital marketing professionals who are well-versed in the latest marketing skills, so we've lined up deals on five skills that every digital marketer needs to learn in 2020.The Complete 2020 Google SEO & Growth Hacking BundleNo website can succeed without search engine optimization, which are strategies that allow you to appear higher up on online searches. This bundle features dozens of strategies that will help you go viral and convert website visitors into customers.MSRP: $1,400Sale Price: $25 The Complete 2020 Google SEO & Growth Hacking Bundle – $25See DealThe Complete LinkedIn Marketing & Sales BundleLinkedIn is a valuable resource for finding job openings, but it's also a powerful marketing platform when used correctly. This bundle features guides for building the perfect resume, preparing ...

A virtual private network, or VPN, is used for a lot of reasons, with some of those being kind of sketchy. Two legitimate reasons to use a VPN are to hide your online identity and to connect to your TV streaming accounts as you travel, particularly overseas. While a free VPN service is tempting, a paid service is more reliable, more secure, and is less likely to keep logs of your activity. ExpressVPN is one of the fastest and most secure VPN services out there with servers in nearly 100 countries. It's compatible with most devices, including routers, game consoles, and smart TVs.Best Overall: ExpressVPNExpressVPN is one of the most popular services out there, with thousands of servers positioned in 160 locations and 94 countries. Because of the number of locations, servers, and thousands of unique IP addresses, ExpressVPN is also the best for using with TV streaming services. This VPN is easy to set up, but if you need help, ExpressVPN has 24-hour live support. Hosted in the Br...

Joel and Ellie made it out alive, but did they escape danger?The original launch of The Last of Us was a refreshing departure for Naughty Dog. As much as we love Nathan Drake, seeing Uncharted's level of polish, deep storytelling, and rich character development in an entirely different world is richly satisfying.So naturally, we're expecting big things out of The Last of Us sequel. The Last of Us II is on its way for the PlayStation 4, and if you haven't kept up until now, then we're here to get you up to speed.What's new with The Last of Us Part II?What's the story so far?What's happening in Part II?Gameplay detailsAre there special editions available?When can you play it?Ellie is backLast of Us Part II$60 at Best BuyThe Last of Us returnsThe Last of Us Part II is the continuation of the 2013 hit. This time the story follows the path of hate, vengeance, retribution, and how they change a person.What's new with The Last of Us Part II?Interested in kno...

After two overtime games in Wild Card weekend, fans hope for more thrilling gridiron action.The NFL Playoffs kicked off with an amazing Wild Card round last weekend. We saw two overtime games, and a major upset of the mighty Patriots that came down to the final seconds. Now the road to the Super Bowl next moves to the Divisional Playoff round. Even if you have cut the cord, we've got all the information you'll need to stream all four games this weekend. Here is how to watch the 2020 NFL Divisional Playoff games online if you don't have cable.NFL Playoffs Divisional round scheduleThe NFL Playoffs continues with the Divisional Playoff weekend, which has four games on three different networks. Fox and NBC have one game each, and CBS will air two games. Here is the schedule for the 2020 NFL Divisional Playoff games.All times shown are EasternSaturday, Jan. 11, 20204:35 p.m., Minnesota Vikings vs. San Francisco 49ers, NBC8:15 p.m., Tennessee Titans vs. Baltimore Ravens, CBS...

Many homeowners are moving to a more hands-on security setup because excellent products that are easy to set up are readily available. Just mount it, plug it in, and your home is good to go. We think the Arlo Pro 3 system is the best you can buy because of its great features and easy setup, but there are plenty of others that might fit your needs. Here are some smart home systems that can get you started.Best Overall: The Arlo Pro 3 Security SystemCompletely weatherproof and with zero wires involved, the Arlo Pro 3 provides two-way audio, a three-month Arlo Smart trial plan, HD video, color night vision, 160-degree field of view, and a loud siren that won't hesitate to let you know something is amiss.Besides these consumer-friendly features, Arlo provides plenty for the prosumer, too. Features like local recording storage through USB or microSD, tight integration with all the major smart home brands, and voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant make it our pick for ov...

All of the best announcements at the show, from concepts to shipping products.CES can be a tough show to navigate, with so many intersecting themes and product categories all exhibiting in one place. With everything from ready-to-ship products all the way up to high-level concept devices, there are more great new things to see than you'd ever have time for.The team here at Android Central took the meetings, roamed the halls and covered all of the news to find the best announcements at CES 2020. These are our award winners!Best of CES 2020Best of CES 2020Samsung Galaxy ChromebookFrom $999 at SamsungThe Pixelbook 2 Google won't make.Samsung doesn't release many Chromebooks, but it sure knows how to do hardware — and its prowess is fully on display in the $999 Galaxy Chromebook. Partnering closely with Google for this new flagship-level device, you get exquisite hardware, a 4K OLED display, included stylus, high-end specs, and all of the extras you'd expect in this l...

This is, plain and simple, the worst form of eWaste I have seen in years.I see these little disposable batteries all over the place now. In coffee shops, mall kiosks, even bookstores. They're showing up at music festivals, handed out to those who need a quick boost. For $4.99, you can get this little battery for your phone with just enough juice to get you through the next hour or so. It's packaged like a piece of candy, there's no way to recharge the battery, and when you're done, you can quickly toss it in the trash.I hate these things. They're incredibly wasteful and sold in places which all but guarantee they'll never be recycled responsibly. The folks at Pawamini are handing them out like candy to delighted CES attendees this year, claiming these were their idea and everyone else who makes them copied them. Every question I asked made me feel worse about how extremely wasteful these batteries are, and how they're not going away anytime soon.Why do these exist?Ken, the ...

The Galaxy S8 is a slender, sweet piece of glass, and if you like to live the rough-and-tumble, it needs some rugged protection to keep up with you and make through the day in one piece. We've rounded up the best rugged cases for the S8. No matter your design preference or budget, we've got a case recommendation that's right for you!Slim and secureUAG Feather-light Rugged caseStaff pickUrban Armor Gear is another iconic brand that routinely delivers outstanding cases for Samsung phones in particular. Available in both solid and semi-transparent colors, these cases are thin and lightweight without sacrificing on build quality or ruggedness. Options start as low as $8 on Amazon, with some colors only available for up to $20.From $8 at AmazonRugged and reliableSupcase Unicorn Beetle ProThe Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro is the utmost in heavy-duty protection for your Galaxy S8. These three-piece cases feature a front cover, back cover, and a holster so that you don't hav...

With 2020 already upon us, you're likely wondering what you can do to make the most out of the next decade. Sure, resolving to read more books or hit the gym more often are admirable goals, but if you're looking to think outside the box this year, we have a suggestion that could set you up for success well through the next decade: learn how to code with Python.For those who don't know, Python is an incredibly versatile and user-friendly programming language used for everything from web development and data analytics to AI and machine learning. Its flexible and beginner-friendly nature makes it a popular first language for coding newcomers, and its prominence in the world of AI and machine learning makes it one of the most lucrative languages to learn. In short, learning Python can pay huge dividends, and getting started is as easy as grabbing The Complete Python Certification Bootcamp Bundle.Featuring 12 courses and 85 hours of professional training, this collection breaks down ...

Password and payment completion both can be protected via biometric authentication.What you need to knowGoogle is working on making its Android Autofill service more secure.The company is looking to add biometric checks for password and payment completion.The feature is currently only in testing, so it's unknown when it'll finally make its way to users.We've all been there, you're trying to reply to an important email, but you can't remember the password. Thanks to password managers, however, you no longer need to worry about remembering all your login credentials — and according to security experts, they're also safer to use than keeping your passwords written down in a notebook somewhere. While not as fully featured as something like LastPass or 1Password, Google also offers a free Autofill service for Android and Chrome users.However, unlike those services who've made it their business to protect your passwords, Google's offering has thus far been far less secure. Fo...

$479 gets you the very best hardware you can buy right now, along with extras you didn't know existed.Everyone has a different reason for buying the phone they chose. I use a Pixel phone because I don't like giving out my information to everyone and value security updates over everything. (And because BlackBerry Mobile seemed to stop caring.) But if you are the type of person who simply wants the very best hardware money can buy, you're probably doing it wrong.Raise your hand if you've ever used a phone from a company like Xioami. Now, I can't actually see any hands being raised because I haven't hacked into all of your webcams, but I have a really good idea based on sales numbers, our web site metrics, and Google trends that very few of you are raising them. Some amazing phones are released in Asia and never hit the U.S. Thankfully, the Red Magic 3S is an exception.Now keep your hand raised if you loved that phone from Xiaomi and maybe are still using it. Most o...

That's even better than PoGo's launch year!What you need to knowPokémon GO has its best-ever year in terms of user spending in 2019.Users spent nearly $900 million in 2019.That's a 10% increase on 2018, and even better than its 2016 launch year.Reports have revealed that Pokémon GO saw its best-ever year of user spending in 2019.New Sensor Tower data suggests that user spending in Pokémon GO reached $894 million in 2019, a market improved on 2018, and the highest ever user spend in a year for PoGO.Of course, Pokémon GO was released in July of 2016 but still managed to achieve user spend figures of $832 million. So whilst 2019 was the biggest year overall for the game, it's not quite a fair comparison.PoGo has enjoyed something of a resurgence in popularity after engagement (and spending) slipped in its second year, user spending fell by 29% to a still enormous $589 million. Sensor Tower notes: 2017 represented a down year for the game, although it still accumu...

So, you got a Fitbit Versa smartwatch. Awesome! Whether it's the Versa or Versa 2, you're now the owner of a sleek and capable fitness wearable that can track your steps, show you notifications, and even run apps from Starbucks and Walgreens. Getting your Versa set up can be a tedious process, but we're here to make it as pain-free as we can. Let's begin.Products used in this guideSmart and sleek: Fitbit Versa 2 ($200 at Amazon)How to pair a Fitbit Versa or Versa 2 with your phoneOpen the Fitbit app and tap your Account icon (it's your profile picture at the top-left of the app).Tap Set up a Device.Choose which Versa you have (we're using the Versa 2 in this example).Tap Set Up.Tap Accept to agree to Fitbit's privacy policy.Tap Next.Your phone will search for the Versa via Bluetooth.Once the Versa has been found, type in the numbers shown on its screen.Tap Next to connect your Versa to your Wi-Fi network.Tap the Wi-Fi network you want to use.Type in the pas...

Nomad's Base Station Pro is the first consumer release with the new technology coming later this year.Remember how excited we were about Apple's AirPower charging pad, which promised to make wireless charging more convenient and flexible? Our dreams for this multi-coil system with the Apple brand may have been dashed, but the dream of a drop-anywhere-to-charge pad is alive and well and living in Las Vegas.Well, not really. It's actually Arizona.The standard needs to changeFree charging or positional freedom is most likely going to be the next evolution of wireless charging. Companies are starting to recognize that there is a need for wireless charging that doesn't require us to "find the sweet spot" when we set our phones down to charge. There are researchers already trying to set the new standard. Aira is one of those companies that seems to have succeeded at producing a truly free charging system and Nomad is its first consumer client.Back in October, Nomad announced it w...

A powerful new contenderRoborock H6$450 at RoborockProsRemovable and washable filter, cyclones, dustbinAlmost half the weightLonger battery life in all modesIncludes more accessories in the boxOLED screen for easy status and mode selectionConsSmaller dustbinMore expensiveRoborock might be a new competitor in the handheld vacuum space, but its expertise in robot vacuums has helped make the Roborock H6 a more efficient stick vacuum.Familiar name, friendly priceDyson Cyclone V10 Motorhead$350 at AmazonProsSlightly stronger motorA third suction level (medium)12% faster charging time ConsWorse battery lifeLess versatileHeavierDyson's least expensive stick vacuum in the V10 family offers great value and great performance for the money.You might have a robot vacuum for the main floors in your home, but what about all those places a robot vacuum can't reach? That's exactly what a cordless "stick" vacuum is for. Providing versatil...

Unveiled this week at the Consumer Electronics Show, the Roborock H6 looks to be an incredible entry into the market for cordless vacuums. Today, we're going to look at how it stacks up to the best of the best - specifically the Dyson V10 Absolute.Roborock H6Our recommendation$449 at RoborockPros90-minute battery lifeLightweight, at just 3 poundsOLED screen provides a ton of valuable informationMotor packs a serious punchAuto carpet recognitionConsPricyRoborock's first handheld vacuum, so there may be hiccupsThere's a lot to be excited about with the Roborock H6. From a slick-looking OLED display to nigh-unbeatable battery life, it's got the makings of a promising entry into the handheld vacuum market. Better yet, in spite of how lightweight it is, it doesn't sacrifice much in the way of power.Dyson Cyclone V10 AbsolutePowerful, yet flawed$399 at DysonProsQuietOne of the most powerful cordless vacuums on the marketSwaps seamlessly to ha...

CES is the place of tech dreams, where spectacle is paramount and the price of products is often out of the public's reach. From massive 8K TVs to waterproof drones to AI-powered washing machines to... Alexa-powered Lamborghinis, there was an out-of-reach product for everyone at the show.With over 4,500 exhibitors showing off hundreds of thousands of products, we're rounding up some of the more garish and aspirational products we saw at CES 2020.Lamborghini Huracan Evo with Amazon AlexaAvailability: Now, at select Lamborghini dealers Price: $267,000+Cheaper alternatives: Literally anything else?More info hereComing in at over $300,000 for most models, the new 2020 Lamborghini Huracan Evo is likely the most expensive Alexa speaker ever made (unless you count the diamond-encrusted Echo Dot I'm sure someone received for Christmas this year).Alexa integration in a car is nothing new — it's possible through the company's dismally-inefficient Echo Auto or many third-pa...

It's taking place on January 13 in China.What you need to knowOnePlus is holding a press event on January 13 in Shenzhen, China.The teaser mentions new "screen technology."We have no idea what this is referring to, but we'll learn soon enough.We're expecting OnePlus to hold an event in the first half of 2020 to unveil its upcoming OnePlus 8 smartphone, but prior to that, the company is heading to China to talk about new screen tech it's working on.The invite in question was recently shared on the Chinese social network Weibo, and it reveals that something is happening on January 13 in Shenzhen. The invite mentions "screen technology" along with a render of a phone display, but that's about all we have to go on.What can we expect from this? Honestly, we don't know.A number of things are possible, including new in-screen fingerprint sensor tech, an in-screen camera similar to what other companies have been testing, or something to do with the color-shifting glass we s...

No word on what happens to the 8 Pro flavor.What you need to knowOnePlus 8 will come to Verizon in the U.S., according to Android Police.It will be a Verizon 5G phone, likely with mmWave technology.No word on pricing and timing, nor the availability of the high-end Pro model.OnePlus phones have been sold unlocked in the U.S. for some time, with support for all of the major networks. The next OnePlus phone, the OnePlus 8, may come directly to Verizon showrooms, a coup for the upstart brand that once sold its devices through a lottery. According to a scoop from Android Police, the OnePlus 8 will be a Verizon phone for the 5G network, presumably the mmWave 5G that Verizon has been unleashing across the country for the past year.OnePlus generally delivers high-end hardware at a mid-range price, so it is exciting to see the company at the forefront of the U.S. 5G push. Still, 5G networks are very new and incomplete, and it is unclear if phones released today will meet all of t...

If you're thinking of leaving AT&T's prices behind but still like its coverage, then check out these alternative carriers.A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is an "alternative carrier" that leases network coverage from one of the "Big Four" carriers (AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon). Much of the time, these carriers can offer cheaper service by targeting smaller markets or removing features that many people won't need.Thanks to the size and quality of AT&T's 3G and LTE network as well as its support for most unlocked phones, AT&T is an easy choice for an MVNO.You need to make sure that your phone has the following GSM bands to work with an AT&T-based MVNO. Alternatively, you can check your IMEI on the website of most of these carriers.3G: 850, 1900MhzLTE: AWS, 700, 850, 1900MhzHere are the MVNOs powered by AT&T.Airvoice WirelessAltice MobileBeast MobileBlack WirelessBoom! MobileConsumer CellularCricket WirelessEasyGOFreedomPopFre...

Following MIUI 11's release back in October, its successor is expected sometime in Q3 2020.What you need to knowXiaomi is already teasing the next iteration of its popular MIUI custom skin for Android.The company's social media today posted a MIUI 12 image, alongside the caption "officially set sail."The list of features it's supposed to bring with it are currently unknown.Xiaomi's MIUI is among the most popular custom skins out there, thanks to the company's incredibly low pricing for its smartphones, which in turn have driven the usage of its custom skin to new heights. The company is currently 4th largest smartphone maker by worldwide market share and even holds the top position in India. Admittedly, its skin has its issues — the most prominent being the barrage of ads served to Indian users — but it is nonetheless among the most recognizable Android skins out there.And, now, months ahead of its release, Xiaomi has already begun teasing the next version of MIUI. Th...

This may now be the best deal in media streaming.What you need to knowDisney now allows Verizon on Us subscribers to get the Disney+ bundle.With this combo, you're charged $6 a month for the Disney+ bundle until the end of your free "Disney+ on Us" year.At the end of that year, you'll be charged $12.99 a month for the bundle.When Disney+ first launched in November, Verizon had an offer for its mobile and Fios customers to give them Disney+ for a year for free, called Disney+ on Us. Now, Disney+ on Us was the only offer that could be combined with a previous offer, allowing Founder's Circle members get four years for the price of two, but you can now combine it with another sweet offer: the Disney+ Bundle!The Disney+ gives you Disney+, ESPN+, and ad-supported Hulu for $13 a month, but as long as your year of Disney+ on Us is active, you'll only be charged $6 a month for the bundle, which means that you're getting ESPN+ and Disney+ for the price of a basic Hulu subscription...

Google's Pixel 3a XL is a more affordable version of the excellent Pixel 3 XL that launched in October 2018. The Pixel 3a XL's plastic design isn't nearly as fragile as the regular Pixel 3 XL's glass one, but picking up a case for it is still a swell idea. If you need some helping finding one you like, here's a roundup of our favorites.Old reliableSpigen Rugged ArmorStaff pickIf you regularly read our case roundups, you'll know that we're big fans of the Spigen Rugged Armor. This case doesn't look very flashy, but it nails the basics at a price you'll love. It offers ample drop protection, is built well, and adds very little thickness to the 3a XL's body. All-in-all, there's not much to complain about.$11 at AmazonThin, colorful, cheapAnccer Colorful SeriesGive your Pixel 3a XL some essential protection without compromising its design with the Anccer Colorful Series. This case features an ultra-thin 0.3mm design, comes in six gorgeous colors, and offers safe...

Sensel can put touch anywhere, whether you want it or not.What you need to knowSensel's Pressure Grid technology is more flexible than current touch technology.These sensors can work in rain, with gloves on, and beneath a variety of materials.Sensel sensors can detect pressure from a scant one gram up to five kilograms.Sensor company Sensel makes a touch-sensitive "Pressure Grid" technology that offers precision and force sensitivity without many of the drawbacks of current touchscreens, which rely mostly on capacitive touch tech. Capacitive screens monitor changes in capacitance caused by your fingertips through static electricity. This means that environmental factors that affect static charge, like water falling from the sky or thick gloves, will keep the tech from working optimally.Sensel sensors rely on pressure sensitivity from sensors arranged in an array and working together for precise input. This means Sensel sensors could be placed under different surface types...

Folding laundry, washing the dishes, and even grabbing a drink from the fridge could be a thing of the past.What you need to knowiRobot is working on robots with arms that can do more household chores than ever.Products are expected in the next five years and include advanced navigation and object identification via cameras.The first robot with next-generation navigation will debut this year and will mow your lawn for you.If you own a robot vacuum, you know how much nicer life is now that you don't have to vacuum your home every day (or ever, really). But the company that pioneered robot vacuums two decades ago isn't stopping there. Bloomberg conducted an interview at CES 2020 with iRobot's Chief Executive Officer, Colin Angle, and discussed the future of household robots that will be introduced in the very near future. The answer was something more akin to The Jetsons' Rosie the Robot Maid than a little disc that roams around your home and sucks up dirt. We reached out to ...

While the Samsung Gear S3 isn't the newest smartwatch in town, it's still an excellent wearable that many people swear by. If you happen to be one of those people, you may have already bought a couple of snazzy bands to switch up your style now and again. Another important accessory you should consider is an extra charging dock to keep your watch fully charged. We've rounded up a few great third-party options for you.Simple and affordableBeneStellar Samsung Gear S3 ChargerStaff PickThis highly-rated charger from BeneStellar is also surprisingly affordable. It offers the same cradle design as the official Samsung charger. You'll have peace of mind with PTC protection, which is designed to protect your device from over-current as well as over-charging when connected to a power source. This charger also features an LED indicator, so you'll know when your watch is charging. Your purchase comes with a three-foot Micro-USB cable.$10 at AmazonCharging with a twistLoveB...

There's no word on when things will be back to normal.What you need to knowTwitter is down for some users as of January 10, 2020.The largest impacted areas include the east coast of the U.S. and Japan.It's unclear when things will be back to normal.Having trouble with Twitter on this fine Friday afternoon? You aren't alone. As of January 10, a lot of people around the world are experiencing connection issues with the social media site.Reports first started spiking around 1:00 PM ET, with the majority of complaints originating from the east coast of the United States, Montreal, and Japan. Parts of the United Kingdom are also affected.It's unlcear when Twitter will get things back up and running as per usual, but we'll keep an eye on things and update this post when that happens....

It's no coincidence that some of the world's most successful businesspeople make a point of reading as much as they can, but most of us simply don't have the time to power through entire books on a regular basis.BookNotes makes it easy to gain key insights from over 1,000 best-selling books in just 15 minutes, and a lifetime subscription is available for 90% off at just $29.Designed for busy people who want to stay informed on the go, this subscription will help you accelerate your learning through concise summaries of popular and important books.You'll be able to choose from a wide range of non-fiction categories including finance, love, career, happiness, health, productivity, and much more—all within a streamlined interface that works on all of your devices.You'll even be able to use audio summaries when you're traveling.Explore and discover some of the world's most important ideas in minutes with a lifetime subscription to BookNotes for just $29—90% off its usual ...

Best answer: There are several things to do with a phone that you're no longer using and may not be worth selling used. Whether you donate or recycle, it's better than throwing a smartphone and its hazardous materials in the trash.Phone still working? Donate it: Cell Phones for SoldiersIs your phone still worth buying? Sell it on SwappaRecycle locally for cash: Find an ecoATMJust want to get rid of it? Take it to Best BuyWhy can't I just throw my phone away?We create tens of millions of tons of e-waste — waste from electronic devices — every year, and just dumping it in the trash is the worst possible thing you could do with it. There are two types of materials in smartphones and other e-waste that require special disposal processes:Precious materials like rare metals are hard to mine, refine, and use in electronics, so we must reclaim as much of these materials from a device at the end of its lifetime so that manufacturers can minimize new mining of these materials...

Neckband headphones are convenient for those who either have small pockets or no pockets at all. They lay around your neck and are always readily available whenever you need them. If you're looking for a dependable pair, the JBL Live 200BT Wireless is an excellent choice with exceptional sound, battery life, and comfort.Best Overall: JBL Live 200BT WirelessThe Live 200BT from JBL makes the top of our list due to its superb sound quality. For the price, the overall frequency response is mostly neutral and flat. They produces some of the best sound you can get for its form factor and price.You'll also get up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge. And once dead, they will take roughly 2 hours to charge to 100% which is above average for Bluetooth earbuds. In terms of Bluetooth audio codecs, you'll only get SBC. Sound quality-wise, that's fine for most people, but the latency won't be ideal for watching videos or playing games. However, the Live 200BT makes up for this a...

Roborock is spreading out from their usual robot vacuum fare this year at CES 2020 by announcing a new handheld vacuum cleaner. The Roborock H6 takes all of the expertise they've built over the course of their existing lineup, and packaged it into a lightweight, powerful unit that can keep carpets and hardwood floors clean in any home.The H6 is the first vacuum in the world powered by a lithium polymer battery. With it, the H6 runs for 90 minutes in eco mode or 10 minutes on full blast. A handy little OLED screen in the handle helps you keep tabs on how much longer the H6 can run, alongside other helpful notifications. Weighing only 3 lbs. makes the Roborock H6 perfect for cleaning ceilings, shelves, and other high, hard-to-reach spots.Despite the generous battery life and light weight, it still boasts plenty of power. A 420W multi-layer impeller can easily lift dirt settled deep into carpets and other soft material. Meanwhile, front and rear washable HEPA filters capture 99....