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The licenses relate to 'non-essential' goods.What you need to knowThe Commerce Department started issuing its responses to over 290 requests from U.S. firms for licenses to trade with Huawei this Wednesday.A day later, a group of senators has written to President Trump to stop the issuance of these licenses.The group includes Chuck Schumer, Tom Cotton, Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, and Rick Scott, among others.Just as it seemed Huawei execs had finally claimed a victory in the company's ongoing spat with the U.S. government, dark clouds hang over its fate again. A day after the Commerce Department began issuing American companies licenses to start supplying Huawei with 'non-essential' goods — things crucial to its success, like Google's mobile services — a team of Republican and Democratic senators has now called on the Trump administration to stop issuing said licenses.The 14 senators include Senate Minority leader Chuck Schumer, democratic presidential nomi...

With Disney+, 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 activiti...

The game may not look as vibrant, but it works.Google Stadia launched a few days ago and it's safe to say that the launch didn't go as planned. A lot of gamers who preordered still don't have their devices, and there are reports of a number of other problems. However, the biggest issue we've seen on social media is the picture quality. Many reviewers even noted that "4K doesn't look like 4K." Well, you'll be happy to know that we have a quick way to fix image quality.If you're one of the users who's seeing blurry visuals when you're playing Stadia through the Chromecast Ultra, you should think about turning off high dynamic range lighting (HDR). On many games, it appears to dramatically increase the resolution. Below, you can see a table of the improvements to image quality we witnessed after turning off HDR from the Stadia app on Android. We tested a number of games that users are likely to pick up at launch. Game With HDR Resolution Without HDR Resolution Frame Ra...

The Google Pixel 4 is a significant switch-up from the previous Pixels — ditching the two-tone glass and the fingerprint sensor. However, it's still a glass-backed flagship phone, and glass-backed flagships get put in cases the second they arrive for their own protection! Whether you want a clear case that can show off the Pixel 4's loveliness or prefer a more robust heavy-duty case to keep things locked down, we've spent hours looking for the best Pixel 4 cases out there.The holidays bring discounts on just about everything technological you can find, and that includes sweet sales on cute cases. Whether you're taking advantage of Black Friday deals to buy yourself, or you just want to expand your case collection with some more personality, more options are readily available. You can expect some price cuts from name-brand case makers like Spigen, Otterbox, and Caseology amongst the doorbuster mania.Slim gripSpigen Liquid AirStaff pickThis slim case features a wonder...

Android has its own special variant of the Linux kernel and that's not a good thing. But, for now, at least, it's a necessity. Why can't it be more like everything else?Google once again had a major presence at the yearly gathering of top Linux developers known as the Linux Plumbers Conference. This is where all the smart people who work hard to make the framework that most of the world's computers run on gather so they can iron out all the problems that any project this big is bound to have.Since Android is by far the most popular operating system that runs atop of Linux, having it be more "standard" and comparable to the rest is really important. Regrettably, it's not even close because of the way vendors support components and manufacturers put them all together.Much has been done and Google has some plans to make things even better. Ron Amadeo at Ars Technica has done a great job at trying to make sense of it all in a way everyone can understand, so if reading about forking...

Black Friday has come to the UK a week early, or at least Amazon is pretty bad at reading a calendar. Nevertheless, the online giant has kicked off its Black Friday event with a number of hot discounts across its first-party hardware, including Fire TV, Fire Tablets, Echo and Kindle.All of the deals featured here are now live and will run through until early December. Grab your wallet and form an orderly queue!Deals on Amazon EchoDeals are live across the Echo range covering the speakers, models with a display like the Echo Show, and there are some tasty bundles with other hardware that will help you save even more.Echo Dot 3rd Generation - £22 (was £49.99 - 56% off)Echo Show 5 - £49.99 (was £79.99 - 38% off)Echo Flex - £19.99 (was £24.99 - 20% off)Echo Dot with clock - £34.99 (was £59.99 - 42% off)Echo Dot + Amazon Smart Plug - £31.99 (was £74.98 - 57% off)Echo Show + Neos Cam - £64.99 (was £104.98...

Black Friday has come to the UK a week early, or at least Amazon is pretty bad at reading a calendar. Nevertheless, the online giant has kicked off its Black Friday event with a number of hot discounts across its first-party hardware. This is a perfect time to add some smarts and even a little security to your home with scorching deals on both Ring and eero hardware.All of the deals featured here are now live and will run through until early December. Grab your wallet and form an orderly queue!Deals on RingAmazon owning Ring means there will always be killer discounts at times like Black Friday, and this year is no exception. Whether you're looking for a doorbell, a security camera, or even a bundle with a bonus Echo included, there's something here for you.Ring Video Doorbell 2 - £119 (was £179 - 34% off) Ring Video Doorbell Pro - £149 (was £229 - 35% off)Ring Stick Up Cam + Echo Dot - £89 (was 138.99 - 36% off)Ring Video Doorbell 2 + Echo D...

Black Friday is hitting the UK early this year with some savings to be had across numerous product categories. If you're on the hunt for an SD card to store data on without splashing too much cash, you're in luck with these excellent savings on SanDisk storage.All of the deals featured here are now live and will run through until early December.Deals on SanDisk SD cardsAmazon currently has some killer deals now on for SanDisk SD cards, whether you need one for your mobile phone, Nintendo Switch, camera or laptop.SanDisk Extreme 128GB microSDXC - £18 (was £24 - 25% off)SanDisk Extreme 256GB microSDXC - £50 (was £71 - 30% off)SanDisk Extreme 512GB microSDXC - £99 (was £172 - 42% off)SanDisk Extreme PRO 64GB SDXC - £16 (was £20 - 19% off)SanDisk Extreme PRO 128 GB SDXC - £27 (was £41 - 33% off)SanDisk 64GB Nintendo Switch microSDXC - £12 (was £16 - 29% off) SanDisk 256GB Nintendo Switch microSDXC - &p...

Samsung makes many of the best Android phones available. We use every single one, and their competitors, to give you the knowledge you need to pick the right one for you.Go bigGalaxy Note 10+$900 at AmazonProsSamsung's biggest and best displaymicroSD expansion slotLonger battery lifeFaster chargingConsToo big for many handsConsiderably more expensiveThe Note 10+ is the true flagship of the Samsung line. It has the biggest display, highest specs, and every capability you could ask for. Just be ready to open up your wallet and expand the reach of your hand.Compact optionGalaxy Note 10$750 at AmazonProsSmaller than Galaxy S10+$150 less than Note 10+Full S Pen in compact phoneConsSmaller batteryNo microSD expansionLower resolution displayThe Note 10 brings the S Pen experience down to a phone that's smaller than the Galaxy S10+. That's an appealing proposition, but a relatively expensive one — and you make other trade-offs i...

The stock controller for the PlayStation 4 is good, but it's not for everyone. Fortunately, there are a lot of options out there that offer a different experience, whether you're a competitive gamer, have kids who want to play, or just want to sharpen up your experience. Pick up one of these options if you're looking for something to change up your play.Black Friday is a great time to grab different controllers. It's one of the busiest shopping seasons of the entire year, so retailers have a lot of incentive to drop the prices of their various products. Whether you're looking for an official controller from Sony or something a little more custom, you should be able to find a sale or discounted item that'll fit your needs.The highest of high endASTRO Gaming C40 TRStaff pickThis is expensive, there's no denying it, but the Astro C40 TR is amazing, so it justifies the cost. The sheer number of customizable parts is staggering. From trigger stops to movable thumbsticks, the A...

Half-Life finally returns, though in a way most players probably weren't expecting.It's been 12 years since an official Half-Life game release, so many fans simply gave up hope that Valve would return to the franchise. However, prayers have been answered, and Valve has announced Half-Life is making a return — though not in a way that most people were expecting. Next year, Half-Life: Alyx, a virtual reality-only midquel between Half-Life and Half-Life 2, is set to hit headsets. Here's everything you need to know about the game.Development and revealStory and settingGameplay designBonus contentRelease date and pricingIt finally returnsHalf-Life: Alyx$54 at SteamHalf-Life 3, but it's a midquelHalf-Life: Alyx is a bold comeback for Valve's previously-stagnant AAA franchise, described by Valve itself as its "flagship VR game."Development and revealOn Nov. 18, 2019, Valve tweeted the announcement of Half-Life: Alyx, labeling it its "flagship VR game,...

Echo StudioIt's the Echo Plus PLUS$200 at AmazonProsPhysical mic mute switchBooming room-filling soundBuilt-in Zigbee smart home hubCan be paired with another Echo Studio and/or Fire TV for surround soundConsFirst gen productMost expensive Echo deviceThe Echo Studio is Amazon's shot across the bow to Apple's Homepod, Google's Home Max, and Sonos' collection of high-end speakers. It offers amazing sound and smarts for a great price. This device just might be the successor to the Echo Plus.Echo Plus (2nd Gen)Smaller speaker smart hub$150 at AmazonProsGreat sound in a smaller packageAlso has built-in Zigbee smart home hubCan get with free smart bulbConsSame sound architecture as cheaper, newer EchoPriced a little high at this point The Echo Plus was Amazon's first stab at better Echo audio, and with its Zigbee integration it was the first Echo device that could serve as a smart home hub. The device is on its 2nd generation, but it h...

Android Central's top-ranking Chromebook reviews rankedThe best Chromebooks of 2019 can provide a top-notch computing experience, perfect for students and anyone looking for a trouble-free laptop with long battery life. We've reviewed and rated the absolute best Chromebooks so that you can find the best value at any budget. Our buyer's guide will help you find the perfect Chrome OS laptop or tablet.If you've been trepidatious about switching to a new operating system, Black Friday deals can sweeten the pot by dropping prices into impulse-buy territory. These coming sales on models from big brands like Lenovo, ASUS, and Dell are an even better value now that Google just extended the support life for most current models by a year or more. We already see discounts on some of our favorite Chromebooks on the market, which means if ever there was a time to snag a Chromebook, it's now!Latest Black Friday Chromebook DealsDell durabilityDell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1$349 from ...

We've followed the Oculus Quest since day zero, and we've used all of its competitors and siblings, so we know how much storage you need to enjoy VR.Budget friendlyOculus Quest 64GB$399 at AmazonProsCheaperHas enough storage for a lot of usersSupports all the same features as larger variantSupports all the same games as larger variantConsNot enough storage for hardcore gamersNo microSD slotThe 64GB variant of the Oculus Quest supports all the same features and games as the version with larger storage. It has enough space for many users but will fill up if you're a hardcore gamer. Its lack of a microSD slot makes storage limitations a more significant issue.Extra roomOculus Quest 128GB$499 at AmazonProsLots of room for gamesMore affordable than the competitionConsSignificantly more expensive No microSD slotThis version of the Oculus Quest sports 128GB of storage, which is more than enough for multiple games and lots of media to e...

Echo Show 8Just right$100 at AmazonProsPhysical camera shutter and mute switchCertified for Humans program for easy setupSimilar specs to its bigger siblingAlexa integrationConsNo Dolby audioAmazon Photos integration not as good as it could beNo Google Assistant compatibilityThe Echo Show 8 brought the privacy features of the Show 5 with improved speakers and a screen resolution to match the larger Echo Show (2nd Gen). It is the perfect portal for projecting Alexa into your smart home.Nest HubGoogle-y goodness$100 at Best BuyProsYouTube supportPhysical mute switchAwesome integration with Google PhotosGoogle AsistantConsNo camera for video chattingNo Alexa compatabilityRear-firing sound quality could be betterNot only is the Nest Hub a great gateway for you to control your home with the Google Assistant, it is the best device to display and enjoy your personal photo library on.Both of these devices sound great, look good,...

Smart speaker or smart screen, which is the better item for your home? We have some feelings about this that may help you decide.Nest Mini (2nd Gen)Mightiest mini speaker$49 at Best BuyProsImproved speaker with twice the bassBetter processing power and on-device smartsNow wall-mountableAffordableConsFidgety touch controlsNo information display or cameraNow under the Nest umbrella, this second-generation Mini is a thoughtful iteration by Google. It keeps the same look and footprint of the original but improves where it counts — on the inside. A better bass and smarter processing make for a much improved smart speaker.Nest HubHappy home hub$100 at Best BuyProsPretty great screenThe perfect Google Photos displayEasy-to-use hub to control your smart homeConsNo camera means no video chattingIts been over a year since hardware releasedMore expensiveAfter Amazon released the enormous Echo Show, Google/Nest brought a more reason...

The Galaxy S9 and S9+ are simply dazzling, begging you to show them off, but since it's essentially made of glass, you're going to want to cover the breakable bits with a case. Never fear, clear cases are here! There are a lot of ways to do a clear case, and whether you want one that shines bright like a diamond or one that's as tough as one, there's a clear case here for you.Style and shineSpigen Liquid Crystal CaseStaff pick$12 (S9 Clear) at Amazon$11 (S9+ Clear) at AmazonSpigen's Liquid Crystal is a lightweight delight for the S9 that lets the bold Samsung branding shine through while obscuring scuffs, smudges, and identifying information of the back of the phone. The Liquid Crystal case is a breeze to apply and work perfectly with phone grips.Go beyondSpigen Ultra Hybrid Case$13 (S9) at Amazon$14 (S9+) at Amazon If you want a clear case that goes beyond, get Plus Ultra! with the Spigen Ultra Hybrid. This case works with phone grips and wireless chargin...

Anyone who’s worked in an office in the past thirty years has doubtlessly worked with Excel, but having only a baseline understanding of this increasingly powerful and popular program isn’t enough if you want to succeed in a data-driven world.The Complete Microsoft Excel 2019 MOS Certification Exam Training Bundle will transform you from an Excel novice into a full-fledged pro, and it’s available for over 95% off at just $21.25 when you enter the coupon code BFSAVE15 at checkout.With three courses and over 40 hours of instruction, this bundle will teach you everything you need to know to earn valuable Excel certifications that you can add to your resume.You’ll learn how to build powerful graphs and charts that break down complex data, use algorithms to draw conclusions from massive sets of information, create lists and functions that can drastically reduce your work time, and much more—all through instruction that utilizes hands-on exerci...

The top reward is now worth $1.5 million!What you need to knowGoogle is expanding the Android Security Rewards program.The biggest possible bug bounty under the program is now $1.5 million.There are also other new types of prizes, relating to data exfiltration and lock screen bypass, which go up to $500,000.Google's bug bounty program for Android, known as Android Security Rewards, has given out over $4 million in the four years since its launch, comprising of more than 1,800 individual reports. The company now wants to build on that success by expanding the program and adding higher-yield rewards to entice more researchers to probe the company's existing security architecture.The most substantial reward under the program now relates to the company's integrated security chip for its Pixel line of smartphones — the Titan M — which it says has accorded the Pixel 3 the privilege of having the strong rating for built-in security among the current crop of flagship ...

As some of the most popular Android tablets, the Amazon Fire family stays on our mind. We use these devices extensively and we know everything they have to offer.Amazon Fire HD 8Best value tabletFrom $80 at AmazonProsHalf the price of the HD 10Smaller size is better for e-booksMost portable HD Fire tabletConsDisplay isn't as dense as the HD 10Speakers distort at high volumesThe Fire HD 8 might be the best value tablet on the market, boasting smooth performance with Amazon's Fire OS and a surprisingly good display for just $80. While it isn't quite as powerful as the HD 10, it offers all the same basic functionality for half the price — most people will be served just fine with the HD 8.Amazon Fire HD 10Best Amazon tabletFrom $150 at AmazonProsLarge screen is better for watching videosBetter specs than the HD 8Louder speakers with more clarityConsLarger size may be too much for someHighest priced Fire tablet, non-Kids EditionThe ...

Best answer: At a minimum, you'll want at least 5 Mbps to stream Disney Plus (Disney+). However, if you want to get that 4K glory on offer for some of the content, you are going to need 25 Mbps.Magic on demand: Disney+ (From $7/mo at Disney+)The need for speedIf you're like me, then you've been anxiously awaiting the launch of Disney's streaming service, Disney+. There are so many franchises and stories that are under the Disney umbrella that it's hard not to be hyped. Not only can we rewatch all our favorites, but they will also get further explored through this service. Everything from Marvel to Star Wars and more are getting original content that will let us dive deeper into the worlds we love.Now that Disney+ is finally here, we need to make sure that all of our ducks are in a row to stream away without hiccups.Part of that process is knowing what internet speed requirements are going to be necessary to use the service. Disney has provided us with a nice simple breakd...

Nope, it's not just you. Netflix is down in parts of Europe and the Northeastern U.S.Update 3:40PM EST/7:40PM GMT — The problem is now clearing up, with many users reporting that services are being restored. There are still several folks with issues, but progress is being made. Just in time for after-dinner binge watching!What you need to knowNetflix services are down in parts of the UK, Germany, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Denmark, Poland, Sweden, Spain, and even Greece.Residents in the New York City metropolitan area are also experiencing streaming problems with the service.Netflix is aware of the outage and is working to fix it.If you woke up this morning and couldn't get Netflix to play anything, you're not alone. Netflix is experiencing a service outage throughout large parts of Northern Europe, including the UK, Germany, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Denmark, Poland, and Sweden,. Additional outages seem to include parts of central Spain, Greece, and ...

Best answer: On average, you're looking at about 700MB per hour when streaming SD content and 1.5GB of 1080p HD streaming per hour.Adventure with a click: Disney+ (From $7/mo at Disney+)Streaming wants all the dataDisney hooked a lot of us from childhood, so with Disney finally giving all its fans a single place to find their favorites with Disney Plus (Disney+), we can, at last, indulge in the idea that we'll have it all at our fingertips. We aren't just getting the classics, but also the rest of the Disney family with Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more.Therefore, getting devices, as well as proper data plans in place to stream, are paramount to make sure that when you're set to relax and watch your favorite show that everything is correct.What I'm referring to concerning data plans is knowing how much data will be used up while getting your Disney fix. While we don't have anything official from Disney just yet in terms of technical requirements, we can use...

Whether you're a fan of indie platformers or big-budget AAA spectacles, you'll find some incredible games on the PlayStation 4. These games will let you live the legacy of the characters while you step into new worlds. Discover if this is the end, or if the story will continue, but only if you have a PlayStation 4.Black Friday is the best time of the year to stock up on all of those games you missed out on. Not only do you have some extra time off for the holidays to play them, but you can grab several games that have caught your eye for a fraction of their usual price (no one likes spending $60 a pop on AAA games). With Black Friday, you get the best deals and discounts around that you won't see until next year.Norse mythologyGod of WarJourney to the Norse realm of Midgard with Kratos and his son as they encounter menacing gods hell-bent on stopping them. God of War was acclaimed upon release for just about every aspect, from its cinematic story to its superb gam...

Choose your smart speaker wisely. Your first smart speaker purchase will influence future expansion and accessory purchases.Black Friday is only a few weeks away and you are more than likely already looking for deals on big ticket items, including smart speakers. When it comes to smart speakers, they come in various sizes and price points, so it can be tough to choose the one that's best for you.However, the biggest decision you have to make is which ecosystem you want. Both Amazon and Google offer a handful of first-party options coming in at various price points, and some third-party devices also work with certain systems. The biggest mistake people make when buying a smart speaker, however, is not knowing what ecosystem fits their needs best. What happens if they choose a smart speaker that doesn't work with their current ecosystem of products? Here's how to make sure you avoid that this Black Friday.Choose your platformBefore you even look into any smart speakers at all, ...

Along with Sonos speakers.What you need to knowSpotify free can now be played on your Amazon Alexa and Bose speakers.You'll need to first link Spotify via the Amazon Alexa app or make sure your Bose speakers firmware is up to date.Spotify is running a holiday promotion through the end of the year offering three months of Spotify Premium for $9.99.Spotify free is spreading, and that's a good thing. Earlier this month we saw Spotify add the ability for free users to listen through Sonos speakers. Now, Spotify is taking it two steps further adding the same functionality for Amazon Alexa and Bose speakers.For Bose users, make sure that you've updated to the latest firmware and Spotify app. Then you'll be able to open the Spotify app and use Spotify Connect to choose your Bose speaker from the list and start playing music on it.If you have an Alexa speaker, you'll need to set up Spotify in the Amazon Alexa app first. To do this, open the app, tap on Settings, select Music, a...

Tiffany Haddish in Black Mitzvah on Netflix, premiering Dec. 3, 2019.Netflix brings the funny, The Expanse is back on Amazon, and Hulu ventures further Into the Dark.December isn't all about the holidays. OK, it's a lot about the holidays, and we're talking the traditional fare that usually requires someone in a red suit with a beard. But it's also about so much more than that. Like Tiffany Haddish taking on her Jewish roots in Black Mitzvah on Netflix.And it's about the long-awaited fourth season of The Expanse on or the return of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Amazon Prime Video.Or it's about Hulu going even further down the dark side with another installment of Into the Dark.The point is, there's something for everyone as we close out 2019.What's new on Netflix in December 2019You're going to spend a good bit of December laughing. That's nothing new for Netflix, but it's also especially true as we close out 2019.First up? Tiffany Haddish brings her new special &md...

Alexa is flexing her way into every space in your home.What you need to knowThe Echo Flex is now available and shipping for $25.Echo Flex accessories like a nightlight and motion sensor are also now available for $15 each.The Echo Flex is a plug-and-play Echo for any space and is the cheapest Echo device.Amazon announced dozens of new products back in September at its annual event, and arguably the most interesting (and the one that flew the most under-the-radar) was the Echo Flex. The Flex is a smart plug-like device that you can plug directly into any standard wall socket for instant access to Alexa services. It has a small microphone and speaker so you can communicate with the virtual assistant, and it comes with a USB port so you can charge smaller devices (like your smartphone) through it.The Echo Flex is conceived as a device that you would put in transitional spaces where you might want Alexa functionality but where traditional Echo speakers don't make sense, like ...

Problems with Stadia are heating up as users report Chromecast Ultras getting too hot.What you need to knowStadia Founder's Editions have begun shipping out to different players.Many players are now reporting that playing using Stadia is causing the included Chromecast Ultra to overheat. Google has not yet responded to this issue. Google's new game streaming platform Stadia has begun rolling out to different players and amidst multiple other issues such as players not receiving their codes or having shipments delayed, another problem is arising for those who have recieved their Founder's Edition.Multiple Stadia users have reported on Reddit that the Chromecast Ultra included in the Founder's Edition of Stadia is getting far too hot, far too quickly. One user mentioned that it was hot after about three hours of playing, while another noted it was "absurdly hot" even before they'd begun playing. Google has not provided a response to these issues on the Stadia subreddit so f...

If you want to maintain the sleek form factor of your Galaxy S9 or S9+, but you still want to at least protect it from scratches and scuffs, then a thin case is the best way to go. These are the best you can buy for your phone.Lightweight protectionSpigen Thin FitStaff PickThis case offers excellent scratch protection with a bit of drop protection, thanks to reinforced corners. There's a raised lip around the screen, as well as the fingerprint sensor and camera, and there are precise cutouts for all the buttons and ports. You can snag this in black, blue, or purple for both the Galaxy S9 and S9+ (which also has a gold option).$12 for S9 at Amazon$10 for S9+ at AmazonNo bulk hereTotallee Ultra-Thin CaseTotallee is another one of those companies that makes cases that are so thin you barely realize they are there. This line of cases comes in four different colors, measures in at just 0.02-inches and is available for both the Galaxy S9 and S9+.$13 for S9 at Amazon...

You can now "hide" your replies...What you need to knowTwitter has announced new controls for conversations on Twitter.Starting today, users will be able to hide replies to their Tweets.Everyone will still be able to see and engage with these replies, but you can hide replies away to "shut out the noise".Twitter has announced that it is changing the way conversations work on Twitter, bringing more control to users so as to make Twitter safer and more comfortable.According to a press release: Everyone should feel safe and comfortable while talking on Twitter. To make this happen, we need to change how conversations work on our service. Currently, repliers can shift the topic or tone of a discussion and derail what you and your audience want to talk about. To give you more control over the conversations you start, we tested the option for you to hide replies to your Tweets. We learned that the feature is a useful new way to manage your conversations. Today, we're making...

Amazon Echo and Google Home have crossed over from the early adopter phase to each finding a place within the mainstream culture. Both are functional, but if you're like me, you still might not be convinced which assistant is right for you. That's why I've got both Alexa and Google Assistant speakers set up in my home. If you find yourself in the same boat, it may be essential to buy smart home accessories that are compatible with both AI assistants, and these smart plugs are a great place to start.If you've been holding off on adding smart plugs to your home, now's the time to finally cave and do some shopping. Black Friday will be here before you know it, and that means all sorts of savings and deals on just about every gadget imaginable — smart plugs included. As we track down the best deals, we'll add them below so you can always stay on top of the latest and greatest prices.AI-powered energy monitoringCurrant Wifi Smart OutletStaff pickCurrant's WiFi Smart Outl...

Your phone doesn't have to come from your carrier.You can buy a Galaxy S9 or S9+ just about anywhere, and in the U.S., most people will typically buy directly from their current carrier or one they're in the process of switching to. However, you don't have to buy from a carrier — you can buy a GS9 or S9+ unlocked, and even have a choice of multiple retailers from which to get it. Now that the GS9 is a bit older, the choices for where to buy, and discounts you can get by shopping around, are even more varied.The U.S.-unlocked Galaxy S9 is designed to work on all major carriers, including Verizon and Sprint, and in terms of hardware, it's identical to what you'd get from those carriers. There are differences in software but for the better — you don't have carrier customizations or pre-loaded apps to contend with. There are also zero hoops to jump through if you ever want to switch carriers — being unlocked from the get-go, you can just switch SIMs and be on your w...

Wave says its new platform enables unprecedented connectivity between artists and fans.What you need to knowWave, formally known as TheWaveVR, today announced the world's first multi-channel virtual entertainment platform for live concerts.The new platform makes it possible for artists to connect with fans in online games, social networks, live streaming channels or entertainment networks. These virtual concerts will be made available via YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, and other popular digital and gaming channels. Entertainment technology company Wave, which was known as TheWaveVR previously, has introduced what it is describing as "the world's first multi-channel virtual entertainment platform for live concerts." Wave says the platform uses proprietary live broadcast technology that allows artists to perform live for their fans around the world, across different digital channels.Adam Arrigo, co-founder and CEO of Wave, said in a statement: There's a surge of next-genera...

Bluetooth speakers are becoming super popular. Don't get stuck with a crappy one just because it was on sale!As Black Friday approaches, deals will start swinging at you left and right, especially Bluetooth speakers. More and more people are now owning smartphones and other gadgets that no longer feature the 3.5mm audio jack and that means one of two things: they need a dongle or gear upgrades to Bluetooth.Before you go out and blindly purchase a Bluetooth speaker this holiday season, make sure you inform yourself so you don't regret your purchase down the road.Check the model number and priceOne common practice technology vendors use for Black Friday is to create special variations for their products during shopping season. Typically, these models are a blend of the vendor's various other products. It may sound like a good deal but vendors usually don't offer support or warranty replacements on Black Friday models because they're built specifically for the holiday season. Th...

DJI has played a huge role in commoditizing drones over the years, constantly adding to its lineup with a variety of drones for different purposes, ranging from casual use to commercial-grade flying cameras whose footage could end up in the next indie film.With the Mavic Mini, DJI is tackling the same hobbyist demographic that it touched on with the Spark a few years back, but with a twist: at 249 grams, the Mavic Mini isn't just the company's smallest consumer drone, it's also the only one you can fly without first registering through the FAA.That's a huge deal for first-time drone owners, and combined with some handy software tricks, I think it makes the Mavic Mini one of the most accessible drones on the market. No registration, no problemDJI Mavic Mini Bottom Line The Mavic Mini is the most accessible dro...

Let's check in with the AC forums.Apple's AirPods started the true wireless earbud revolution when they were first unveiled in 2016, and most recently, Apple ushered in the new AirPods Pro with active noise canceling, better audio quality, and a refreshed design.There's no denying the popularity and success of AirPods, and while they technically work with Android phones, the experience isn't quite as seamless as using them with an iPhone.Taking a look through the AC forums, here's what some of our members have to say about Apple's earbuds. clerk 11-14-2019 10:40 AM “ I used the air pods pro with my note 10. They worked fine. I returned them because the sound quality is mediocre and not worth 250. But as far as using them with the note, no issues. It is helpful to have an iPhone around to set the stem settings but once you set them they stick. Reply ...

If your Wi-Fi at home is busted or you want to make a change, which should you buy?Mesh Wi-Fi networks are the new thing, and that's great because mesh networks can put fast Wi-Fi where you need it without getting complicated. There are some great products available that are easy to set up and keep running, including Nest Wifi, an Eero system, Netgear's Orbi, and Amplifi's Instant system. Setting up your own mesh Wi-Fi network is simple, thanks to consumer gear that does the hard work for you.However, "regular" Wi-Fi routers and access points are getting better, too. Faster speeds and longer range are more than buzzwords when it comes to buying the latest Wi-Fi router, and you'll often find advanced tools that a simple mesh system can't offer.That leads to the obvious question — should anyone switch to a mesh-based Wi-Fi network in their house? Like most things, the answer isn't a simple yes or no. There are a couple of things you should consider before you dust off your ...

Black Friday is a great time to buy a new console for yourself or someone else. Almost all of them are on sale, some huge bundles will be available, and the accessories are all discounted as well. We've already seen ads from retailers that showcase some steep savings on PlayStation 4 consoles, so now you just need to make your own purchase decision.Let's break down the differences between the consoles, help you figure out which one is best for you, show you the deals, and make sure you don't miss out on anything in the process.Best Black Friday PlayStation 4 DealsPlayStation 4 Pro - $100 off at several retailersIf you're all about the best graphics, the PlayStation 4 Pro is the best way to play games, especially PlayStation's different exclusive titles such as God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn. PlayStation 4 Pro fully supports resolution output up to 4K, providing better image quality than the regular PlayStation 4. It also supports HDR for a wider, brighter gamut of colors....

One of the few Google products that can justify its price tag.I was very lukewarm on the Pixelbook Go at first. Prior to launch, the leaks had me skeptical about the idea of it replacing the Pixelbook — which I still think is one of the best laptops ever produced — and once Google showed it off I was certain instead of just skeptical.This is mostly because of the big shoes the original Pixelbook left to fill and the Pixelbook Go was missing some key features if it wanted to fill them. There is no support for the Pixelbook Pen (which is still a silly name). There are no 180-degree style hinges to allow it to be used as a tablet. This is not how you make a better "next-gen" product.Thankfully, the Pixelbook Go is not the Pixelbook replacement (I would expect to see that next year if I were a betting man) and is instead a new model in Google's Chromebook line that is built for folks who don't want to spend $1,000 or more for a Pixelbook or want something to use on the ...

There are plenty of cases available for the Samsung Galaxy S9+, but it can be hard to separate the good from the bad. The beautiful and large design of the Galaxy S9+ will quickly turn to horror after a nasty drop, so a quality case is almost a requirement. We've rounded up the best cases for the S9+, which not only protect your phone but can give it a new look.A luxurious first-party optionSamsung Alcantara CoverStaff pickAlcantara feels great, and it's thick enough to protect your phone in the event of a drop. Buy this one for the design, keep using it for the quality.From $25 at AmazonSlim as can beSpigen Thin FitThis case is an excellent choice if you want the bare minimum protection and grip on top of your phone in exchange for a super slim profile.$10 at AmazonStyle and shineSpigen Ultra HyrbidSpigen's Ultra Hybrid has a lightweight design that doesn't add too much bulk while offering excellent protection for your device.From $14 at AmazonAlso ...

We're a virtual company made up of tech experts from across the globe. We're just as passionate about smart home tech as we are about Android phones, and we research as many smart gadgets as we can to give you the best insight on what to buy.LIFX A19Everyday bulb$44 at AmazonProsProvides omnidirectional lightingFits in most lamps and hanging fixturesConsWider base may not fit narrow fixturesIf you're replacing a traditional light bulb in a floor lamp or hanging lighting fixture, the A19 shape will be a better fit for you. The shape disperses light across a wider area than the more directional BR30, and the smaller size fits into more sockets.LIFX BR30Bulge reflector$52 at AmazonProsGreat as a single ceiling lightEqually good for can lightsConsWider top may not fit some fixturesFor ceiling lights, can lights, and outdoor floodlights, the BR30 is an ideal shape that casts light more directly than the A19. Designed to serve almost as a downl...

Premium PixelGoogle Pixel 4$755 at AmazonProsFluid 90Hz displayTwo rear camerasMotion Sense gesturesSpeedy face unlockNewer processor + more RAMConsSmaller batteryExpensiveThe Pixel 4 is Google's latest flagship smartphone offering, and while it is more expensive than the 3a, you're getting a lot for your money. The 90Hz display is a joy to have, the addition of a telephoto camera opens up new shooting possibilities, and the upgraded performance is a great bonus for power-users.Best for lessGoogle Pixel 3a$398 at AmazonProsOLED screen looks greatExcellent cameraFast and reliable fingerprint sensor3.5mm headphone jackCompetitive priceConsDoesn't have wireless chargingOnly 4GB of RAMIf you don't need the very latest and greatest, the Pixel 3a is a worthy alternative to the Pixel 4. Yes, it has a less impressive processor, display, and only one rear camera, but the day-to-day experience of using the phone is sublime. Not only is ...

The Assistant can automatically navigate pages and fill out all the forms for you.What you need to knowGoogle has extended Duplex to the Web.You can now use the Assistant on your Android phone to book movie tickets on the Web with Chrome. In the near future, Google hopes to expand the feature to allow users to perform more complex tasks such as booking a car rental. Google began testing a new Duplex feature last month, which allowed select Chrome users in the U.S. to book movie tickets in Chrome with the Assistant. Google has now formally rolled out the feature for users in the U.S. and the UK.To book a movie ticket on the web, you will first need to choose a theater and time. Google says users will have the option to buy tickets with the Assistant from over 70 cinemas and ticketing services, including AMD, Fandango, MJR Theaters, and Movietickets.com in the U.S. In the UK, users can book their movie tickets from Odeon.To search for movie times, you can simply ask t...

Dance the night away.With a brand new season of Fortnite comes brand new challenges, and Chapter 2 has once again changed up the way players will be taking them on. One of the challenges in this week's Trick Shot will have you searching for three large, humanoid structures across the map so you can dance near them.Past challenges have involved fighting enemies here, so it's likely you'll know where to go, but if you're unsure of where to go, we've got you covered.Knowing the challengeFirst and foremost, this challenge won't be live until Thursday, Nov. 21, at 9:30 a.m. EST. After that time, you'll be able to jump in and tackle it, but just know that it won't be live until the weekly missions go live in Fortnite.You'll only be able to do this challenge once you've completed one of the Trick Shot missions, which shouldn't be too hard at all. After finding the structures, simply start dancing in front of them, and it'll count as the challenge. Finally, make sure to refer to th...

Where's the letter?With a brand new season of Fortnite comes brand new challenges, and Chapter 2 has once again changed up the way players will be taking them on. For the recent Trick Shot set of missions, one of the challenges for this week will have you scouring one of the game's new loading screens for a hidden letter, and making your way to it in the game. This one can be tough if you don't know where to look, but thankfully we've found where to go so you don't have to.Knowing the challengeFirst and foremost, this challenge won't be live until Thursday, Nov. 21, at 9:30 a.m. EST. After that time, you'll be able to jump in and tackle it, but just know that it won't be live until the weekly missions go live in Fortnite.Secondly, you'll only be able to do this challenge once you've completed eight of the Trick Shot missions, which is when you unlock the loading screen.This screen, which you can see above, shows 8-Ball and Scratch, two characters new to Fortnite Chapter 2, ...

The latest challenges leaked ahead of the weekly update.Fortnite Chapter 2 is officially here, and with it comes a significant change to the way players will be leveling up their Battle Pass. While Missions will still be in the game, players will no longer be competing for Battle Stars. Instead, the goal is to get normal XP. With a larger focus on XP and less grinding, players should be able to level up their Battle Pass even faster, earning a variety of rewards on the way.Unlike Season X's mission setup, there will be no time prestige missions, and the focal point is to simply complete tasks as you play the game. Instead of having to complete the same mission with added difficulty, now you'll just be unlocking new missions as you complete the ones already available to you. The sixth week of Fortnite Chapter 2 isn't live until Thursday morning, but that didn't stop the missions for the week leaking a bit early.Twitter user iFireMonkey — who is well-known for datamining ...

Best answer: No, as of now, there are no promo codes available for Disney+. However, some great deals are going on right now that can get you discounts on a subscription.Welcome to the kingdom: Disney+ (From $7/mo at Disney+)Disney at a discountWith so many streaming services out there and each one having content unique to their service, it's not hard to find yourself with a few different subscriptions — and that means the dollars add up pretty quick. So finding ways to save a buck here and there is a great way to help out the budget while still getting the content you want, and Disney+ is going to have some content you will likely want.As it stands now, Disney isn't offering any promo codes. However, there are a few different ways to get yourself a discount on your subscription.Can you watch me now?If you are a Verizon customer, then you might have the best deal of all. As the exclusive wireless partner for Disney+, it's giving customers a free year of Disney's n...

If you don't already have a Chromebook, it's time to change that. Black Friday brings a bunch of great discounts to products that you've probably had your eye on during the year. There are sure to be a bunch of Chromebook options available, so you're going to want to know what you're looking for from a Chromebook so you can help yourself buy the right one.You won't need to wait until Black Friday actually arrives to take advantage of great deals, though. There are many discounts available already, and some of them are the same price we expect to see for Black Friday. Why not avoid the confusion and chaos of the big day and get your order in now?First, let's take a look at some information to help you pick the right Chromebook for you, then see what options are available at a discount right now!What is a Chromebook?Chromebooks are laptops that run Chrome OS, an operating system designed and managed by Google. It's the more polished and stable version of the open-source Chromiu...

Best answer: Yes, you can set up profiles on your Disney Plus (Disney+) account as a "kid" profile to filter content within the predetermined rating group (G, TV-Y, TV-Y7/Y7-FV, TV-G). At this time, it's unclear if further content filtering will be available.Magic is waiting: Disney+ (From $7/mo at Disney+)Safety firstDisney movies and their characters hold a special place in the lives of so many people. While some of us may only be a kid at heart, some fans are still actually children. A lot of what folks think of when it comes to Disney movies are classics like Mickey Mouse, Snow White, Toy Story, Up, and so many more. Though content like that is quite wholesome, not all of the shows that will be available on Disney+ will be appropriate for children. Error Code 70 will appear on the screen when content is restricted due to current profile settings.Disney houses more than just the Mickey and the gang. Disney also has the Marvel universe, Star Wars, Fox and more, so th...