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What you need to knowApp revenue increased by 23%.$21.9 billion was spent.App Store makes up the lion's share.Games continue to prove popular on mobile.Independent developers might be struggling to make money in various app stores, but there is money going somewhere. App revenue has increased to $21.9 billion for the third quarter of 2019, up from $17.9 billion the previous year. That's growth of a massive 22.9%.These numbers crom from the latest data published by Sensor Tower and highlights the fact that people continue to spend money despite warnings from developers that people won't pay for apps.Breaking things down it appears App Store users spent more than those using Google Play on Android – $14.2 billion, up 22.3% and $7.7 billion, up 24%, respectively. But paradoxically Google's Play Store is the one where the most downloads occur. Google Play generated nearly three-times more first-time app installs in Q3 2019 than the App Store, accumulating 21.6 bill...

OnePlus's new flagship doesn't change much, but then again, it really didn't need to.If you needed proof that OnePlus is now a fully-blown, big-boy smartphone manufacturer, look no further than the number of phones it's been able to field in 2019. Between the OnePlus 7, 7 Pro, 7 Pro 5G, 7T, and now 7T Pro and 7T Pro McLaren Edition, we've seen a whopping six devices emerge over the past year.However, unlike the vanilla 7T, the OnePlus 7T Pro is a fairly conservative upgrade over its six-month-old predecessor. OnePlus fans will recognize it as more of a 3 to 3T upgrade, as opposed to a 5 to 5T. If someone handed you both a OnePlus 7 Pro and 7T Pro, you'd have to examine them in forensic detail to tell the difference.Nevertheless, that's more of a measure of how compelling the 7 Pro itself still is, rather than evidence a lack of ambition on the part of OnePlus. With the latest software upgrades, the OnePlus 7 Pro remains hugely competitive. So, take that phone and add in subtle ...

You may have been fooled by the emergence of the OnePlus 7T to think the company was finished releasing phones this year. But you were wrong.The OnePlus 7T Pro is the company's most minor update yet, keeping the same basic specs of the OnePlus 7 Pro but bumping the processor to Qualcomm's Snapdragon 855+ and giving the ultra-wide camera a useful macro mode. Oh, and the battery's a bit bigger.Here are all the OnePlus 7T Pro specs.Category OnePlus 7T ProOperating System Android 10 OxygenOS 10Display 6.67-inch 3120 x 1440 (516 ppi) 19.5:9 — 90Hz Fluid AMOLEDProcessor Qualcomm Snapdragon 855+ Octa-core 7nm Up to 2.96GHzGPU Adreno 640RAM 8GBStorage 256GB UFS 3.0 2-LANEExpandable ❌Rear Camera 1 48MP main sensor f/1.6 aperture 1.6 μm pixel size OIS EISRear Camera 2 8MP telephoto sensor f/2.4 aperture 1.0 μm pixel size OISRear Camera 3 16MP ultra wide angle sensor f/2.2 aperture 117° field of viewMacro modeFront C...

The hardware is still robust, but the design doesn't stand out and you don't get as many goodies in the box.OnePlus teamed up with Disney to launch a Star Wars edition of the 5T back in 2017, and the company followed it up with an Avengers Edition of the OnePlus 6. At the end of last year, OnePlus announced a partnership with McLaren, launching the OnePlus 6T McLaren Edition.A year on, and we're now getting a new McLaren phone. The OnePlus 7T Pro is now official, and the Chinese manufacturer has introduced a limited edition McLaren variant alongside the standard model. The OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition has a unique design that distinguishes it from the standard variant, and you get a McLaren-branded case in the box.The McLaren Edition will be sold in a few global markets around the world, and like last year you get 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage as standard. You'll have to shell out a staggering $980 (£799) for the device, and it will be available from November 5.L...

Logitech Circle 2Top Choice$144 at AmazonProsCompatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKitHigh-quality video and two-way audioEasy setup with multiple mounting optionsGreat physical designApp is easy to useConsNo local storagePer-camera subscription modelPoor support for IFTTTNight vision could be betterNot only does it look cool, Logitech's Circle 2 remains one of the best home security cameras on the market. It's one of the only cameras that's compatible with Apple's Homekit and also works with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Our main gripe is the subscription model, which leans towards the expensive side.Ring Stick Up Cam Plug-InAlarm Bells$90 at AmazonProsRing Neighbors is a genuinely cool featureConfigurable siren to ward off intrudersAffordableWorks seamlessly with Amazon AlexaConsSiren could be louderCan't access recorded video without subscriptionTwo-way audio isn't greatNot Compatible with Google Assistant or HomeKitAside...

There's also a new "Showtime" routine.What you need to knowGoogle is adding a preset to Google Assistant routines called "Showtime".Android TV will be getting support for routines in the future as well.This preset will also be able to be fully customizable once it rolls out to Assistant.Using a routine through Google Assistant is a great way to do multiple actions with one word, and Google is setting up a new preset for us. This new preset is going to be called "Showtime," and like other routines, you will have the option to customize its functions.Google already has some presets in the "Routines" section of the Home app like "Bedtime," "Leaving Home," "I'm Home," and others. While the "Showtime" preset isn't officially released just yet, 9to5Google was told: Coming soon, you'll be able to set up a routine with the Google Assistant. Just say "showtime" to dim the lights, draw the curtains, and start a thriller, all from the comfort of your couch.In addition to this pr...

Keeping your children occupied can be one of the toughest tasks as a parent, which is why a tablet might be a great idea. You wouldn't just be throwing a screen in front of them either since there are a variety of tablets available from Walmart that will help teach your children and keep them entertained. One such option is the Samsung Galaxy Tab E Lite as it includes a suite of apps for kids, along with protective case for when those accidents happen.Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy Tab E Lite 7"Samsung offers a tablet for just about everyone, and the same can be said when trying to find a tablet for your children. The Galaxy Tab E Lite is perfect for children with its 7-inch display; it also includes a durable bumper case, expandable storage, and comes from a name you know and trust. Additionally, the Tab E Lite gives users up to nine hours of battery life with its 3,600mAh battery.If you want to keep your kids off of YouTube and get them learning, the Tab E Lite not only inclu...

It will also tie into Continued Conversations.What you need to know"Raise to talk" is being worked on as a new way to activate Google Assistant.It would work with Continued Conversation on the next-gen version of Assistant.The new feature may make its debut with the Pixel 4 smartphones.The Pixel 4 is set to launch next week, and thanks to all the leaks, there isn't much left we don't already know about Google's latest smartphone. However, it appears not every detail is widely known, and after digging into some code, XDA-Developers has confirmed the new "raise to talk" feature Google is working on for Assistant."Raise to talk" was first spotted by 9to5Google and will allow you to activate Assistant by simply lifting up your phone. That would be yet another way to invoke the next-gen Assistant beyond the traditional hot words, swiping up from the corners, or squeezing the frame on the Pixel 4.This new way to summon Assistant is also expected to work with Continued Conversati...

Dyson products are the cream of the crop when it comes to home electronics. Their fans, vacuums, and even hairdryers are highly sought after, but few would dream of owning any Dyson device thanks to their hefty price tags. But what if you could get a Dyson device makeover for free? All you have to do is enter this giveaway for the chance to win 3 amazing Dyson products.The lucky winner of the Ultimate Dyson Bundle Giveaway will receive a V8 Animal Vacuum, a Supersonic Hairdryer, and a Pure Hot + Cool WiFi Enabled Bladeless Fan. The V8 is a powerful, bagless vacuum that deep cleans your floors by sucking allergens and pet dander and expels clean air. Similarly, the Supersonic Hairdryer expels air at low-velocity, while the diffuser keeps your hair frizz-free by simulating natural drying. Finally, the Bladeless Fan expels a constant stream of air that’s purified of airborne particles and gasses thanks to the built-in carbon and HEPA filters.These Dyson products will make yo...

The licenses will allow U.S. companies to bypass the ban and continue doing business with Huawei.What you need to knowThe Trump administration will reportedly soon begin issuing licenses to U.S. companies to allow them to supply 'non-sensitive' goods to Huawei.President Trump is said to have given the green light to issue the licenses in a meeting held last week.Trade talks between the U.S. and China will resume this week. The Trump Administration may soon issue licenses to U.S. tech companies to resume supply of certain 'non-sensitive' goods to Huawei. As per a report from The New York Times, the green light to begin issuing the licenses was given by President Trump in a meeting last week.As noted by the publication in its report, the move will certainly help ease tensions between the U.S. and China ahead of the 13th round of trade talks between the two nations this week. However, the practical effects of the move may just be limited at best. Despite the ban by the Trump ad...

Through sheer dysfunction, Google Play Music's demotion is actually the best thing for it.Last week, Google announced that it would be YouTube Music, not Google Play Music, pre-installed as the default music app on all Android phones. Many people commented that this was terrible news for Play Music users and yet another nail in a coffin that must look like an iron maiden by now.Actually, as a longtime GPM user, this news made me cheer. Now I can stop worrying as much about that nonsense device limit whenever I get a new phone!For years, one of the first things I'd do on a freshly set-up phone I'd received to review was to disable Google Play Music so that it wouldn't authorize itself accidentally. GPM has a ten-device authorization limit, which is fairly normal, and a four device de-authorization limit, which is anything but normal. What made this worse was that while YouTube Music only counted devices you download offline music on, Google Play Music authorized any device you...

Buying a new smartphone is just part of the equation — the service that goes with it is just as, if not more, important. At AC, we make it our mission to analyze and test all of the most popular wireless providers on the market to help you pick a company that works for you.Options galoreUS MobileFrom $4/mo. at US MobileProsPlans are customizableGreat for people that use a lot of dataUses T-Mobile and Verizon for coverageVery fast LTE speedsConsPoor phone selectionCustomization is king when it comes to US Mobile. You can fine-tune a Custom Plan with the exact talk, text, and data allotment you want, or splurge for a customizable Unlimted Plan. LTE speeds are also fast, and you've got ample coverage from either T-Mobile or Verizon.Coverage everywhereTracfoneFrom $15/mo. at TracfoneProsLow monthly ratesRefill cards available at retail storesPlans for basic phones and smartphonesCoverage from AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and VerizonConsNot ...

Microsoft's foldable phone project, codenamed Andromeda, was assumed dead. But it's back, and it's coming next year!Last week, Microsoft unveiled Surface Duo, a pocketable dual-screen mobile device that's coming at the end of next year. This is a project we at Windows Central have been following for almost three years under the internal codename "Andromeda." Initially positioned as a Windows Core OS device, Surface Duo will now be shipping as an Android device instead, a move that few of us were expecting, but is absolutely the right call.Although a foldable phone by Microsoft came as a surprise to many, this is actually project we've known about for a very long time. It's something Microsoft has been working on since 2016, and has gone through many iterations and changes internally. As such, I thought it would be a cool idea to gather all the important historic points in the journey that has led us to Surface Duo, once codenamed Andromeda.2016Microsoft began working on its...

The MWBK01 connects over Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless, and works with all major platforms.Xiaomi makes a lot of stuff these days. Sure, the Chinese manufacturer is known for its phones, but it also sells routers, rice cookers, robot vacuums, scooters, and even towels. Xiaomi's vast selection of devices include keyboards: I have several of the brand's mechanical keyboards that use TTC switches, a derivative of Cherry's MX series. Most of these lifestyle products are marketed under the ecosystem label, which sees Xiaomi partnering with dozens of smaller brands that actually maanufacture the products.Xiaomi invests in these brands and provides them a set of guidelines to ensure design uniformity across product categories, and in doing so it ensures that a Bluetooth keyboard being sold by Miiiw has the same design aesthetic as the Roborock robot vacuum or the Mi Laser Projector. It's a win-win situation because the smaller ecosystem brands get to market their products to a much larg...

The Nubia Red Magic 3s will be sold only via the company's official website.What you need to knowNubia's Red Magic 3s gaming smartphone will launch globally on October 16.It will carry a $479 price tag in the U.S., while consumers in the UK will have to shell out £419. The Snapdragon 855 Plus-powered gaming smartphone was launched in China last month.The Nubia Red Magic 3s, which made its debut in China last month, will finally be launched globally next week. Nubia has now confirmed (via GSMArena) that the gaming smartphone will be available for purchase from redmagic.gg in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, Macao, Israel, and the UK starting October 16.The 8GB + 128GB version of the Red Magic 3s will cost $479 in the U.S., £419 in the UK, and €479 in markets across Europe. It will be available in two colors: Eclipse Black or Mecha Silver. The 12GB + 512GB version of the gaming smartphone, on the other hand, will only b...

Time to check in with the AC forums.If you've picked up a Galaxy Note 10 or Note 10+, chances are you've noticed something about its display. Yes, it looks incredible, but it also comes with a screen protector that's installed on it right out-of-the-box.Samsung does this to ensure you can keep the Note 10's screen safe without compromising the in-screen fingerprint sensor, and for a phone that costs as much as the Note 10 does, it's a nice value-add.However, the protector has picked up some flak for not being the best quality option out there, and as such, has caused some discussion in the AC forums about whether or not people are keeping it on the Note 10. Insp_Gadget 10-08-2019 11:41 AM “ I have an unlocked Note 10+. I removed the one that came on it. It's very optional. I don't use screen protectors, myself, so I don't have any suggestions. I haven't had any issues with scratches. Reply ...

The Oculus Quest's game library continues to expand. Recently, the Oculus Quest gained the ability to play compatible Oculus Go and Gear VR games. This brought dozens of new titles that you can play on your Oculus Quest. The Oculus Quest also gained the option to turn off inside-out tracking, which is a useful option if you're playing a game designed for the Oculus Go or Gear VR or if you're using a media app. The first wave of supported Oculus Go and Gear VR games included over 40 titles. We'll keep this list updated so you can keep track of all the compatible titles.★ Featured favoriteTacteraIn this virtual tabletop game, you command a futuristic war room to enact your strategies. You can use gunships, tanks, bombers, and other units to defeat your enemies.$10 at Oculus StoreFancy flyingAce PhantomEditor's ChoiceThis fast-paced title puts you in the cockpit of a fighter jet. The 360-degree combat has you face insides from the OO-Phantom fighter...

Backing up text messages on Android isn't part of Google's cloud service, mainly because Google isn't in the text messaging business. If you've found this article because you've lost all your messages and want to get them back, they are probably gone for good, but there's a simple way to set up automatic backups for your messages and phone logs for the future. This is great if something happens to your phone or if you're simply switching over to a new device and want to take your SMS messages with you.The app you needTop-rated app: SMS Backup & Restore (Free at Google Play Store)How to automatically back up your SMS messages to Google DriveGoogle has included a convenient backup service for SMS messages and much more that uses Google Drive to store back ups of all your personal data so it's available to restore when switching to a new phone. The downside is that the data is restricted to Google Drive, older back ups will get deleted over time, and you're unable to restore ...

Best answer: There's no way of knowing yet until both consoles are further detailed and tested with various games, but the specs that the PlayStation 5 boast are pretty impressive.Limitless possibilities: PlayStation Store Gift Card (From $10 at Amazon)PlayStation 5 and Xbox Scarlett tech specsThere's a lot we don't know about the next Xbox and PlayStation 5 yet, but Sony and Microsoft have given small glimpses into what's under the hood of their respective consoles. If there's one thing that's clear, it's that this generational leap will be like no other. The amount of computing power being packed into these consoles is immense, and this should hopefully translate to bigger and better games, with developers experimenting with the possibilities they each offer.Category PlayStation 5 Xbox ScarlettPrice Unknown UnknownDimensions Unknown UnknownCPU Based on AMD Ryzen 8-core Custom based on AMD Zen 2GPU Custom Radeon Navi (Unknown TFLOP) Custom based on AMD...

If you like to charge your phone at your desk all day, but you still want to use it unencumbered, then a wireless charging pad or stand is the way to go. They can work great as bedside charging solutions, or for quick top-ups when you're home in between working and heading out for evening activities. Whatever your use, these are the best wireless charging pads for the Samsung Galaxy S10.Trusted brandAnker PowerPort charging padStaff pickAnker makes fabulous charging products, and this 10W charging pad fits in well with its repertoire. It has LED indicators to let you know when your S10 is charging, and it has non-slip pads on the bottom so that it stays put on your desk or table. If you're looking for a very thin charging pad, this is the one you want.$30 at AmazonFrom the sourceSamsung convertible charging standWho better to buy a wireless charging stand from than Samsung itself? This "convertible" charging pad can be a flat pad, or it can slide into a stand depe...

We love how easy the Fire HD 10 tablet makes it to look up recipes, watch your favorite shows, surf the internet, play games, or purchase items from Amazon. However, these tablets aren't cheap, so you'll want to protect yours from potential damages. We've done our research and determine which were the best Fire Tablet cases on the market. See which one fits your needs.All the colorsMoKo Folding CaseStaff pickGive your Fire Tablet an elegant-looking, protective covering with this slim-fold design. The front cover doubles as a stand so you can watch YouTube videos and Prime Video shows hands-free. There's even a hand strap inside so you can hold your tablet more securely. Choose from 35 different designs to pick the one that best matches your style.From $21 at AmazonBudget buyJETech CaseThis inexpensive case looks stylish in its simplicity. The front flap folds over into a stand so you can prop your tablet up when watching Netflix or playing games. It comes in four ...

Reno Ace is OPPO's first smartphone to feature 65W fast charging and a 90Hz display.What you need to knowOPPO Reno Ace was formally launched in China today.The latest OPPO flagship smartphone has a Snapdragon 855+ chipset, 65W fast charging support, and a 90Hz display. OPPO Reno Ace will soon go on sale in China for a starting price of 2,999 yuan ($420).OPPO today announced the latest addition to its Reno series of smartphones, the Reno Ace. The new Reno Ace is a highly impressive flagship smartphone that offers quite a few significant upgrades over the Reno 10x Zoom that the company launched earlier this year. However, the Reno Ace lacks a 'shark fin' pop-up selfie camera and doesn't offer a periscope telephoto lens either.The Reno Ace has a Snapdragon 855 Plus processor under the hood, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.0 storage. One of its headline features is the large 6.5-inch AMOLED panel that offers a 90Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution, and a tall 2...

Clearly, everyone wants to talk to a celebrity these days.What you need to knowIssa Rae is the second celebrity cameo voice for Google Assistant.This free addition is available only in the United States.Cameo voices for Assistant only work for specific replies, not for every response.Google is bringing comedy gold to its Assistant with Issa Rae's voice, starting today. The comedian and actress who gained fame from her YouTube series, Awkward Black Girl, can now be heard on any device with Google Assistant built-in. It's as easy as flipping over to the Issa Rae cameo voice within Google Assistant's settings on your phone, or just by saying "Hey Google, talk like Issa".Issa's voice will be available for free in English on any US-based Android, iOS, smart speaker or smart display that has Google Assistant packed inside.Earlier this year, Google added a number of additional voices to Google Assistant, all color-coded and in blissful harmonious order. Issa's voice join's John L...

See when your phone will get the latest version of Android.The full roundupAndroid Pie has been around a while by now. The fact is that not every phone will be updated to Android 10 — the latest version as of this writing — and Pie will be the final bit of software for them. The good news is that Android phones can be super-functional and secure while running Pie, so for the people waiting for this is pretty important.While most devices that will be updated already have been, it's still important to keep track of how the rollout of Android Pie is progressing. Let's break it down by the major manufacturers of the phones we love.GoogleSamsungLGHuaweiMotorolaOnePlusNokiaHTCSonyGoogleGoogle has already told us which phones get updated and which won't.All Pixel phones have been fully updated past pie to Android 10. Even the original Pixel, which was a nice surprise.And that's it. Prior to the Pixel, Google promised two years of full support and three y...

The two-week extended free trials will have to be redeemed by 11:59pm PST on October 16.What you need to knowYouTube subscribers are getting a special two-week extended trial code to share with their friends and family.The two-week free trial will have to be redeemed before October 16. YouTube TV offers access to over 70 channels and unlimited storage space. If you are a YouTube TV subscriber, you can now share a special two-week extended free trial with friends and family. YouTube has started sending emails (Via: 9to5Google) to subscribers with a shareable URL that will let them share free two-week trials with their loved ones. So, we're giving you a special two week extended free trial code to share with friends and family who might like to try YouTube TV for the first time. After all, whether they're entertainment lovers to sports fans, with 70+ channels and unlimited DVR space, there's something for pretty much everyone, right?Once you share the URL included in th...

Protecting the Huawei Mate 30 is a smart idea because it's an expensive flagship made of all glass with a curved screen. If you own one, or are planning to pick up a Mate 30, you'll definitely want to do yourself a favor and get one of these cases.Thin and sleekAnccer Colorful SeriesStaff PickMinimalist cases like this style from Anccer are great for those concerned about a case adding too much extra bulk to their phone. This ultra-thin fit case offers sleek protection around the screen and camera lenses and is available in four color styles.$13 at AmazonBuilt-in style ringAlapmk Kickstand CaseThere's nothing better than a phone accessory with an extra accessory or two built right in. This protective case includes a rotating ring kickstand that can be used to prop up your phone, and there's also a metal plate to use with magnetic car mounts.$11 at AmazonCarbon fiber styleLiXiongBao Carbon FIber caseThis single-layer case is made of TPU and feat...

The hype is already rolling for Google's next phones.With the Android 10 almost here, and the mid-range Pixel 3a and 3a XL out and dominating the mid-range market, we're starting to get a pretty good amount of information on the forthcoming Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL launching later this year.All of the Pixel 4 hype starts with following device codenames as they're put through their development. As is so often the case with these sorts of things, the codenames were revealed through the process of communicating about addressing development issues with the software on Google's phones. Developers working on Android's SELinux policy refer to two never-before-seen Google devices codenamed "Coral" and "Needlefish" right alongside the Pixel, Pixel 2 and Pixel 3 series of phones. The names themselves aren't particularly important, but they unlock the ability to track their progress.The codenames fit the history of Google devices using nautical names, and when then cross-referenced t...

When it comes to succeeding in virtually any industry, continuing education is paramount. Whether you’re trying to climb the career ladder or switch to an entirely new field, staying up-to-date with the latest knowledge and platforms in your chosen industry is of the utmost importance.The Virtual Training Company offers a massive trove of learning resources for a variety of in-demand fields, and a lifetime subscription is available for over 95% off at just $19.75 when you enter the coupon code LEARN75 at checkout.With over 1,000 courses in coding, graphic design and more, this massive educational resource will help you outpace the competition so you can earn higher salaries.You’ll have unlimited access to a massive inventory of courses taught by leading experts in the field, and you’ll be able to constantly build new skills by learning about programming languages, design platforms, development methodologies and more.You’ll even be able to stu...

Sony's WH-1000XM3 are easily the best headphone the company makes. They've managed to create a headphone that not only includes class-leading ANC tech, but also great sound, battery life, and comfort.Best Overall: Sony WH-1000XM3Without a doubt, the WH-1000XM3 are the pinnacle of innovation at Sony when it comes to headphones. They feature class-leading ANC tech, strong battery life at 30 hours with ANC enabled, and excellent sound quality. Battery life isn't the best but it's close, and it includes fast charging as well. The only downside when it comes to battery is that you can't listen and charge simultaneously.So let's start with active noise cancelation, the biggest reason to get the WH-1000XM3 over any other set of Sony headphones. They feature class-leading ANC by a large margin. The WH-1000XM3 virtually blocks out all noise when you have them on. Wearing the headphones while flying will sound like you're sitting at home in your living room watching TV. They do a stell...

Best answer: Probably. Sony already sold the PS4 at a loss when it came to the market at $400 initially. Estimates from industry analysts put the PS5 between the $400 and $600 mark.Base model: PlayStation 4 Slim ($282 at Amazon)Why was the PS4 so cheap?When the PlayStation 4 first released, it retailed at $400. This price placed it at $100 less than the $500 Xbox One, Microsoft's competitor. Neither of those numbers may sound cheap, but Sony actually sold the PS4 at a loss on each system. The idea behind this was that they'd make up that money on software sales and PlayStation Plus subscriptions.The company never outright stated as much, but it is believed that the price was a direct response to the higher cost of the Xbox One. What's the best way to make your product instantly more appealing? Make it cheaper. A known reason that it cost less to produce was that the PS4 was built using standard x86 architecture, cutting down on manufacturing costs.What will make the PS5 so ...

Dozens of employees were reportedly laid off during the PlayStation 5 information released recently.What you need to knowSony Interactive Entertainment Europe has reportedly laid off dozens of employees.These layoffs took place at the same time as the PlayStation 5 information that was recently released. Employees affected believe this is part of a reorganization that centralizes the different branches.According to a report from Video Games Chronicle, Sony has laid off "dozens" of employees at Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe (SIEE). These layoffs were internally announced at the same time that new PlayStation 5 information was revealed via PlayStation Blog and an interview with Wired.Video Games Chronicle was told by several affected employees that this move is part of an attempt to unify the different branches of SIE. In the past, different branches had completely different marketing teams. At least one employee affected by the layoffs has been outspoken on Twitter re...

It's been a long time coming, but it looks like dark mode for all apps is nearly upon us.What you need to knowDark mode will automatically change the app theme when enabled in Android 10.Google Maps is getting a new dark mode that's darker than the current night mode.Chrome dark mode could be finalized soon, if this teaser is any indication.This week has seen a slew of updates that finally enable dark mode on popular apps. From Google Play, Gmail, and even Instagram, the move to an optional dark mode on your favorite app is more of a reality than ever before.Keeping in line with the Instagram update this week, Google took to the popular social media platform to tease a two-frame animation showcasing the toggle between light and dark modes for several apps and system settings. It's likely that Google is showcasing it this way to show the automatic switch that happens when dark mode is enabled system-wide in Android 10, signaling the change for all apps and services to move ov...

While its Android phones may not be as popular as the likes of Samsung, LG continues to kick out quality phones year after year. The lineup has gotten a little muddy with the relatively fast iteration and release of interim models between major launches, but that introduces interesting options at a variety of prices. Right now the best LG phone you can get is the G8, but if you have a more restrictive budget or different needs there are other options out there we recommend.The bestLG G8Staff favoriteIf you want LG's latest and greatest, you get the newest phone: the G8. While it isn't substantially different from the V40, the G8 introduces the latest available spec sheet, a new OLED display, and an intriguing touchless Air Motion gesture controls. Plus, a new display membrane speaker promises better sound for calls and all other audio. And you get the standard solid build quality and high-end wired headphone experiences of LG's recent phones.$500 at AmazonGood on sale...

Whether you're a parkhopper or not, you can still take advantage of this promotion.What you need to knowDisney+ is offering discounted three-year signups with a new promo code.While the offer was intended for Disney Parks guests, the code appears to be working for all.The deal isn't quite as stellar as the D23 promotion, but it works out to $4.72 a month way less than sticker price.Disney+ is almost here and I literally cannot wait to get it on my big screen and watch all the Disney Channel shows I missed out on as a kid, but until it shows up, at least I can share more Disney+ deals with all of you. The current special has been slowly making its way through different Disney groups — first Disney Visa Cardholders, then Disney Movie Rewards Clubmembers — and now seems to have reached a point where the general public can take advantage, thanks to some hunting by the Orlando Sentinel.You can sign up for three years of Disney+ for $169.99 instead of the normal 209.99...

Best answer: Forty characters have been confirmed for Mario Kart Tour. Six have been in every Mario Kart game release so far; Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, and Bowser. The rest of the racers are both old and new favorites, including new member Peachette! However, not all 40 are currently available.Apple not Banana Peels: Mario Kart Tour for iOS (Free on the Apple Store)Metal Mario or Android: Mario Kart Tour for Android (Free on the Google Play Store)The gang is back!Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, Yoshi, and Toad are back for another Mario Kart adventure. This time they are traveling around the world with new racetracks inspired by real cities, and a few old favorites. There are the six diehard racers, but they're bringing many more friends to compete.Twenty of the 40 confirmed friends are already available to play. Unlike other Mario Kart games, there are no weight classes. Instead, characters are sorted by a rarity class — the chance of unlocking them by opening up ...

The PlayStation 5 is shaping up to be an incredibly powerful console the likes of which we have never seen before.Sony's next-generation console, likely to be named the PlayStation 5, is far from gracing store shelves, but the company has revealed a few of its specs to give fans a taste of just how powerful it will be. While we don't know the exact specs of what Microsoft is cooking up with the next Xbox consoles, the PS5 certainly puts the Xbox One X to shame, as it should.How does it compare to the PS4 Pro?It should go without saying, but the PS5 is drastically more powerful than any model in the PS4 family, including the PS4 Pro.Category PlayStation 4 Pro PlayStation 5Price $399 UnknownDimensions 11.61in x 12.87in x 2.17in UnknownCPU AMD Jaguar 8-core (x86-64) Based on AMD Ryzen 8-coreGPU AMD Radeon (4.2 TFLOP) Custom Radeon Navi (Unknown TFLOP)Memory 8GB GDDR5 + 1GB UnknownStorage 1TB / 2TB UnknownStorage type HDD SSDOptical out Y...

Turn your mesh into a motion sensor for your home.What you need to knowLinksys Aware is a subscription service that notifies you about motion in your home.It tracks motion using only the signal from the Linksys Velop Tri-band mesh system.Subscriptions start at $2.99 per month, $24.99 per year.If you have a Linksys VelopTri-Band AC2200 mesh system, you will be receiving an update that enables your system for Linksys' new Linksys Aware subscription service that can notify you about motion within your home. It can accomplish this without any additional hardware meaning you won't need to set up any cameras or motion sensors inside your home.Linksys Aware uses the signal between the mesh points in your network to identify movement. In the app, available for Android and iOS, set up your system by identifying which level of motion for which you would like to recieve alerts. This can be helpful for reducing false positives caused by pets. The notifications may be set to on, of...

Whether you love or hate gestural navigation, one thing is clear: gestures are a mess.What you need to knowGoogle is using its service agreements as leverage to force gesture conformity.Tweaked 'back' gesture will include screen space allocation for swipe-in menus and Edge Panels.Gestures will finally work properly with third-party home screen launchers in the near future.Ever since vendors started cooking up their own solutions for gestural navigation a few years back, the landscape has become convoluted and confusing for users and developers alike. Google is looking to clear that up for everyone with a handful of new guidelines for smartphone vendors. These will apply to all new Android phones launched after January 1, 2020.We've already covered how Google will be making third-party navigation more difficult to enable out-of-the-box, but there's a lot more to these new gesture requirements than Google outright banning something.When it comes to user interface elements, t...

Best answer: The PlayStation 5 will pack a custom Radeon Navi GPU that can support 8K resolution and ray tracing. It is unknown how many teraflops of computing power it will have.Build your library: PlayStation Store Gift Card (From $10 and up at Amazon)PlayStation 3 vs PlayStation 4 graphicsIt was notoriously difficult to develop for the PlayStation 3 because of its CPU, and though this was apparently the case on purpose so developers would be challenged to push its limits, that didn't make it a good thing. Sony used the RSX 'Reality Synthesizer' capable of 400 gigaflops (0.4 teraflops) for the PlayStation 3's GPU and a custom eight-core Cell Broadband Engine for the CPU, which also carried some of the graphics-related work that the console performed. This architecture was completely different from the PS2 and required a significantly greater amount of effort to develop for.Sony opted for a CPU and GPU that was much easier for developers to work with in the PlayStation 4 &md...

Changing out the watch band on your watch is a great way to customize its look while also changing up its functionality. Perhaps you want a nice leather band for business and a silicone band for workouts. Either way, finding a great watch band for your Huawei Watch GT doesn't have to be difficult whether you have the 46mm style or 42mm version, these bands below will have an option for.Comfortable and durableLwsengme silicone watch bandStaff favoriteA perforated silicone watch band is a great option for durability and comfort. This band from Lwsegme is no exception with lots of adjustability and colors to choose from. It's great for workouts and daily casual use, and with so many colors and the low price, you can find a match for every day.$10 at AmazonClassic canvasBeafiry canvas quick releaseA good, basic canvas watch band is tough to beat. Beafiry makes a solid, durable band that complements your watch while also being super comfortable.$15 at Amazon...

Google is using machine learning to create "negative latency."What you need to knowVP of engineering Madj Baker expects Stadia to outperform local gaming systems in 'a year or two.'This would be accomplished by making use of Google's machine learning technology to create 'negative latency.'In order to do this Google will attempt to buffer gameplay and even predict what buttons a player will press next.Back when Google was testing out Stadia under the name "Project Stream", I was blown away by the responsiveness and quality the streaming video game service provided. However, that was when it was locked to 1080p at 60fps. Once Stadia launches, it is promising the same low-latency with 4K HDR resolution at 60fps.Not only that, the VP of engineering Madj Bakar thinks Stadia will outperform local gaming systems in "a year or two." Ultimately, we think in a year or two we'll have games that are running faster and feel more responsive in the cloud than they do locally, regardle...

Best answer: Eye tracking technology allows a device to track the position and motion of your eyes using a sensor. It should enhance your VR experience by reducing eye strain, increasing performance and resolution, and creating more immersive games.Virtual Reality: PlayStation VR - Astro Bot Rescue Mission + Moss Bundle ($279 at Amazon)What is eye tracking?Eye tracking is a sensor technology that can tell exactly where a person's gaze is focused. It allows the device you are using to track the position and motion of your eyes relative to your head and the screen.Do any VR headsets currently use eye tracking?Eye tracking was previously used predominately in the medical field, but virtual reality headset manufacturers have taken note of how important this technology is to the future of VR. Though a lot of VR headsets don't use eye tracking just yet, the HTC Vive Pro Eye does, and will be the first mainstream headset on the market to do so. Oculus, Qualcomm, Microsoft, and Pla...

You don't need to have the latest Chrome beta installed on your phone to be able to use the 'Click to Call' feature.What you need to knowGoogle is testing a new feature in Chrome beta v78 that lets users right click on a number and call it from their phone.When clicking on a hyperlinked phone number, users will be able to choose which device they want to call the number from.In addition to Android 10, the feature works with devices running Android 9 Pie as well.Google rolled out Chrome 77 for all supported platforms last month, adding the ability to share a webpage across multiple devices. As reported by the folks over at Android Police, the company is now working on another similar feature that will make it possible for users to click a hyperlinked phone number or highlight it on desktop and call it from their smartphone.The feature, which is currently available in Chrome beta 78, opens a prompt whenever users click on a hyperlinked phone number, asking them which device th...

While PlayStation Plus is usually a requirement to play online multiplayer, there are notable exceptions to this rule. Most free-to-play games actually allow people to enjoy online multiplayer matches without needing to be an active PlayStation Plus subscriber. If you're wondering which games fall into this category, we've created a list of some of the best online games you can play without PS Plus. Should you want to see the full list of free-to-play games offered on PS4, Sony has an entire section of its store dedicated to just that.★ Featured favoriteDauntlessSick of battle royale games? Dauntless brings the Monster Hunter experience directly to your PlayStation 4 free of charge. Battle monstrous Behemoths across the Shattered Isles alone or with friends and level up your character to take on even more fearsome beasts.Free at PlayStationFortnite CompetitionApex LegendsRespawn Entertainment dropped Apex Legends out of the blue and it's quickly become...

It'll be available for S10 devices that are on T-Mobile, Sprint, or unlocked.What you need to knowSamsung has announced its Android 10 / One UI 2 beta.The beta will be available for the Galaxy S10, S10+, and S10e.Samsung's targeting unlocked, Sprint, and T-Mobile devices for the beta.There's been a lot of talk regarding Samsung's plans for Android 10, and on October 9, the company finally gave us some concrete information about its long-rumored beta for the new software.The promotional image below confirms that a One UI 2 / Android 10 beta is "coming soon", although an exact date is not provided. While that is irritating, there are a few other key details provided here.Samsung notes that the beta will be available for the Galaxy S10 series, including the S10, S10+, and S10e. On top of that, Samsung's only offering the beta for unlocked, Sprint, and T-Mobile variants of the above phones.If you're interested in checking out the beta for yourself, you'll want to open the ...

Check out several discounted PlayStation VR games through October 22.What you need to knowThe third anniversary of PlayStation VR is coming up on October 13.To celebrate, PlayStation is holding a massive sale on PlayStation VR games. Several major titles are on sale through October 22. There's a big PlayStation VR sale running through October 22 to celebrate the third anniversary of PlayStation VR, which is October 13. Several major PlayStation VR games have been heavily discounted, including Borderlands 2 VR, Resident Evil 7 Biohazard Gold Edition, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR and Wolfenstein: Cyberpilot all getting their prices cut by 50% or more. You can check out the full list of available discounted games right here.Pandora awaitsBorderlands 2 VR$25 at PlayStation StoreLoot and shoot in VRBorderlands 2 VR brings the full game that Borderlands fans know and love, fully playable through PlayStation VR. Choose your class and get ready to take on Handsome Jack...

The email addresses and phone numbers used were supposed to be for security purposes.What you need to knowTwitter may have used your email address and phone number that were provided for security purposes for targeted advertising.Twitter apologized for the mistake and ensures users that their data was never shared externally.As of September 17, the issue has been resolved and data provided for security purposes will no longer be used for advertising.On October 8, Twitter informed users via a blog post that their phone numbers and email addresses may have been used for targeted advertising. While that's bad enough, it's even worse that the email addresses and phone numbers were provided for security purposes, such as two-factor authentication.The post goes on to say that the "data may have inadvertently been used for advertising purposes" and that third-parties never had access to the data. Instead, it was used by Twitter's Tailored Audiences and Partner Audiences advertising...

It's time to see the latest in Pixel, Pixelbook, Nest, and more.Google's annual fall hardware event is nearly upon us — it's all going down on October 15 in New York City. This is nominally the "Pixel 4" event, and Google's new phones will absolutely take center stage. But we're also expecting a new Pixelbook, new Google Home (or is it all Nest now?) devices, and maybe even some extra surprises.This is everything we can expect to see from Google on October 15.Pixel 4 + Pixel 4 XLYou don't have to follow the tech news that closely to see that pretty much everything about the Pixel 4 that can leak, has leaked. Hardware details, capabilities, specs, features, camera samples, and more are all available out there, and they paint a pretty complete picture of what we can expect from the Pixel 4 and 4 XL.Google looks to be keeping with the minimalist design aesthetic of previous Pixels with a sleek metal-and-glass design that's understated and flat on the back. The design...

When the original Kindle Fire was released way back in 2011, many thought Amazon was onto something with a low-cost, easy-to-use tablet experience. You know what? They were right! Today there are no fewer than six Fire tablet devices on offer from Amazon, if you count the Kids Editions. Out of them all, we think the Fire HD 8 hits that sweet spot of price, performance, and portability.Best Overall: Fire HD 8 TabletThe Fire HD 8 sits in-between the Fire 7 and Fire HD 10 in more ways than one. It's roughly in the middle of the two sizes of course, but it's also priced in the middle. Those two data points alone justify the Fire HD 8 as our pick for the Fire tablet to get, but let's explore a little bit more about what makes this device special.For starters, it's the lowest-priced Fire device you can get with an HD screen at 1280x800. The base model comes with only 16GB of storage, but you can easily and cheaply add to that with a microSD card and expand up to 400GB to take all o...

The next PlayStation VR headset could be wireless, according to a new patent.What you need to knowA new patent was discovered, showing what could be Sony's ideas for next-generation PlayStation VR.The images show a completely wireless headset, with a rear camera. Sony has previously stated not to expect a new PlayStation VR headset soon.The current PlayStation VR headset will be compatible with the PlayStation 5.A new patent has been discovered by LetsGoDigital, showing different angles of what could be Sony's next-generation PlayStation VR headset. These images in the filing show a wireless headset that is similar to the current setup but without any cables attached. There's also a rear camera, which the PlayStation VR headset does not have right now. You can take a look at the various diagrams below:The name given in the listing is, simply enough, PlayStation VR2, though that could obviously be a placeholder title. This theoretical PSVR2 could see plenty of other improv...