Latest from Android Central

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...

Best answer: Theatrical releases should arrive on Disney Plus (Disney+) about four months after they hit Blu-ray and DVD.Enter the fantasia: Disney+ (From $7/mo at Disney+)Putting the magic on holdThe anticipation for Disney's streaming service is finally over. Until now, it took scouring the various streaming services to see what was available from Dinsey; even then, the pickings were relatively thin. Before Disney+'s launch, we could also get our fix through DVDs and Blu-rays.Now that Disney+ is out, the next question is how the company will handle physical media releases. While there isn't any official schedule out there from Disney as to when we can expect to see movies make it to the streaming service after discs, we do have a good idea when that could be.In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter the senior VP of content, Agnes Chu gave some insight as to the plans: Chu says the conversation around which projects make sense for streaming is guided by their budg...

The not-quite-successor is getting closer every dayWhat you need to knowA "Galaxy S10 Lite," model SM-G770F has appeared in FCC filings tipped to XDA Developers.The Galaxy S10 Lite is a long-rumored device with four cameras and impressive battery specs.It is unclear how the "Lite" device fits into the current device lineup.The rumored Samsung Galaxy S10 Lite has dropped paperwork at the Federal Communications Commission — a necessary step before a phone is launched but no guarantee. Tipsters cued XDA Developers to a filing that included the name Galaxy S10 Lite, as well as the model number SM-G770F. The current Galaxy S10e bears the model number SM-G970F.The Galaxy S10 Lite is rumored to have a lage battery, a large screen, and myriad camera options — so the "Lite" moniker is something of an enigma.A best guess might have more to do with the materials and the launch cycle than the actual device itself. While a Galaxy S10 Lite might seem like an odd fit again...

Disney+ is here and it seems to be a hit. With hundreds of films from the most popular franchises on the planet — not to mention thousands of TV episodes from our childhood — it's little wonder that Disney+ is popular. However, when errors invade your movie marathon, things are anything but magical. There's a few different errors Disney+ can spit out when things go awry, but Error 83 is by far the most prevalent error you come across. Here's a few of the reasons you may be seeing it, and what you can do about it.Reason #1 — Server timeoutError 83 is one of the most common errors. When the servers are overloaded and your Disney+ session can't connect to the servers fast enough to pass a DRM/account check — or can't connect at all — Error 83 is what Disney+ displays when it can't play your video as requested.This is far and away the most common reason to see Error 83, and dealing with it can take a few forms:Try again. Server issues tend to be int...

What you need to know about America's fifth largest network provider.When people talk about postpaid nationwide cell phone networks in the U.S. they usually mean the Big Four: AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon. But there is a fifth company who offers full-service nationwide contract plans that are as good or better than the bigger corporations: U.S. Cellular.Even though U.S. Cellular is a smaller company, it partners with other providers to offer great coverage nationwide. If you were looking for an alternative to the other carriers or simply want to try something different, U.S. Cellular can be a great option.Let's have a look at what you need to know.Great nationwide coverageReciprocal roaming and rural coverageDoes it have 5G?There are data plans to fit everyonePopular phones are supportedNationwide coverageU.S. CellularFrom $60/mo. at U.S. CellularA focus on serviceU.S. Cellular offers nationwide coverage with great phones and competitive prices....

Many think John Legere has been the secret to T-Mobile's success. Does a new captain at the helm mean anything for the planned Sprint merger?John Legere is stepping down as T-Mobile CEO effective May 1, 2020. Legere will remain on the T-Mobile Board of Directors and has stated that he isn't leaving the company and has no intention of moving to troubled start-up WeWork. Either way, next spring T-Mobile will have new leadership.Current company president, board member, and Chief Operating Officer, Mike Sievert, will become the new face behind the company, though Sievert isn't really new. He's been a T-Mobile executive since 2012 and, according to Legere, an integral part of the company's amazing turn-around.These are things we know. Another thing we know is that Sprint and T-Mobile hope to have their $26.5 billion merger finalized in "early 2020," which is right around the time of Legere's planned departure. And finally, we know that the company being handed off to Sievert is a fa...

Best answer: The Galaxy S9 and S9+ are still fine phones, and hold their own in many ways even in late 2019 thanks to their solid specs, great screens, and updated software that matches the Galaxy S10. However, their current going prices limit their appeal, considering there are great modern phones in the same price range now.Starting to feel old: Samsung Galaxy S9 ($540 at Amazon)A solid choice: Samsung Galaxy S9+ ($575 at Amazon)Should you buy a Galaxy S9 in late 2019?Every time we see a new flagship Samsung phone, it's enticing, new and exciting. It's also expensive. The Galaxy S10 range starts with the Galaxy S10e at $850, and goes up beyond $1000. That's just too much for many people, and it's a logical conclusion if you're looking for a Samsung phone to just move back a generation to the Galaxy S9 and S9+. The Galaxy S9 series offers substantial savings with the same core experience as the S10.Since being released in March 2018, discounts have brought the Galaxy...

They're housed in a punch-hole display, as opposed to the sliding mechanism of the OnePlus 7T Pro.What you need to knowTrue-Tech claims to have received internal product diagrams for the OnePlus 8 Pro.The leaks show the phone with a hole-punch display, interestingly with a possible dual-camera setup.Round back, there are three camera sensors alongside a ToF sensor.OnePlus jumped on the truly bezel-less bandwagon with the OnePlus 7 Pro's pop-up front camera, but it seems the company is going back to a more 'typical' selfie shooter with the next iteration of its smartphone, the OnePlus 8. The 'normal' OnePlus has had a teardrop notch since the OnePlus 7; only the Pro variant of the last two iterations of OnePlus' offerings features a pop-up camera. Now, leaked documents obtained by True-Tech suggest OnePlus is looking to standardize the tech it uses for its front cameras by opting for a hole-punch display on both devices. The Pro variant may, however, feature two sensors inst...

You don't have to spend a lot these days to get a pretty decent Android phone. We've seen manufacturers push the limits to bring the prices down, and for just a few hundred bucks you can get a truly capable device. From Motorola to Google, just about everyone offers affordable Android phones these days, and Black Friday is sure to bring these prices even lower.We are already seeing some pretty great Black Friday deals hitting, so if you stumble across a deal be sure to take advantage of it immediately insead of waiting, as it could expire at any time.What should you look for in a cheap phone?Everyone loves a deal on a brand new phone, and Black Friday is a great time to upgrade to something new for less. Of course, not all phones are made equal and when we're talking about cheap phone deals you're still going to want to avoid spending on budget devices from brands you're not familiar with.We're going to be updating this article with the best Black Friday deals we find, but for ...

Hey Google, I like my Fitbit tracker #basicRecently, Google announced that it was acquiring the fitness wearables brand Fitbit in a deal valued at just over two billion dollars. There has been a great deal of debate (at least in tech circles) on what this means for Google, for Fitbit, and for consumers and their data privacy. Will Google kill off the Fitbit brand and move the talent to the WearOS group? Will they develop that long-awaited Pixel Watch? Will they drive Fitbit into the ground and sell it for parts like they did Motorola?These are all valid questions, but I'm not here to talk about any of that right now. Don't get me wrong, I care a great deal about these issues, particularly about what Google plans to do with the treasure trove of existing Fitbit user data, and how it plans to securely manage that data moving forward.No, what I want right now is to give a voice to the not nerdy and the nearly nerdy... those of us who love our Fitbits because they're good fitness t...

Best answer: Yes, the Galaxy S10's under-screen fingerprint sensor should work with any plastic screen protector (occasionally too well...), but if you want to use a tempered glass protector, you should aim to buy one that's certified by Samsung or verified to work with in-display fingerprint scanners.Year's best phone: Samsung Galaxy S10 ($899 at Amazon)For tempered glass: Clearview Liquid Glass ($31 at Amazon)Flexible film: LK HD Film Screen Protectors (3-pack) ($8 at Amazon)Tips on a great tempered glass screen protectorThe Samsung Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10+ both have a fingerprint sensor sitting beneath the display that allows you to unlock your phone by placing your thumb on the lower portion of the screen. This is a convenience over having to reach around the back where Samsung had previously placed its fingerprint sensor over the past couple of years. As cool as this new biometric unlocking system is, it can also cause issues if you use certain screen protectors....

Echo Dot (3rd Gen)Third time's a charm$50 at AmazonProsVastly improved speakersGorgeous fabric designStill really affordableNew Plum color!ConsNo real difference in functionality compared to 2nd Gen DotWhether you already have 2nd Gen Echo Dot or are looking to buy into the Alexa ecosystem for the first time, the Echo Dot (3rd Gen) is a phenomenal product. It looks great, sounds better than ever, and retains the excellent price tag.Echo Dot (2nd Gen)Respect your eldersFormerly $40 at AmazonProsConnects to other speakersSame great Alexa experienceConsSound quality doesn't hold upPlastic design is boringNo longer available for sale on AmazonThe Echo Dot (2nd Gen) still works just fine in 2019, but if you have the means to upgrade, the Echo Dot (3rd Gen) delivers a better all-around experience. Since Amazon no longer sells this device, if you wanted to pick one up you'll have to hit up the reseller market.Already have an Echo Dot (2nd ...

You'll soon be able to just tell your Nest Hub to fire up Sling.Sling TV today announced that it's getting a deeper integration on the Google Nest Hub displays, including the new Nest Hub Max.Here's the gist: Now you can control Sling with your voice to watch shows on Nest Hub and Nest Hub Max, or use your voice to cast Sling to a Chromecast-connected TV. You can say "Hey Google, watch HGTV on Sling" (or any available channel you want to see!), as well as command controls like "play," "pause," "skip forward 10 seconds" or "stop" (but why would you ever want to stop Slinging?). On the Nest Hub Max, you can also pau-se and resume content on Sling with Quick Gestures by holding your hand up and looking at the device.One caveat here: While Chromecast has (and continues to) work just fine, the deeper Nest Hub integration is waiting on a little server-side action from Google, so that you can directly connect your Sling account just like any other supported third-party account. I...

New Show in TownEcho Show 8$100 at AmazonProsThe Goldilocks of Echo Show devicesDisable camera and microphones with one switch/coverSignificantly cheaper than larger Echo Show (2nd Gen)Uses "Certified with Humans"ConsCan't adjust viewing angles without a standNo Dolby processing built-inFast on the heels of the popular Echo Show 5, the Echo Show 8 fits right in the middle of this expanding product line. It brings a higher resolution screen than the Echo Show 5 and welcomes more media integrations like an exclusive partnership with the Food Network.Show Me MoreEcho Show (2nd Gen)$230 at AmazonProsStunning displayAvailable with free smart bulbDolby processing built-inZigbee smart hub built-inConsMost expensive Echo deviceNo physical camera coverMight be too big for someWith its softened corners and fabric covering, the Echo Show (2nd Gen) marked a major design shift for the Echo line. Its large HD display and Alexa integration ha...

Black Friday 2019 kicks off in just under two weeks, but it's not limited to just a single day. Believe it or not, Black Friday used to just be a one-day event that took place the day after Thanksgiving, but in the past few years that has changed a whole bunch. There's now nearly a month of deals, excitement, and more leading up to the big event, and the sales don't stop right after. Quickly following Black Friday is Cyber Monday, Digital Day, and who knows what else may pop up this year.If you aren't familiar with Black Friday, what it is, how it all got started, and how you can prepare yourself, it's time to fix that. Let's get you prepped on how Black Friday came to be, and help you make the most out of Black Friday 2019.When does Black Friday 2019 start?Save the date! In 2019, Black Friday takes place on November 29, the day after Thanksgiving. Many retailers will open at midnight or shortly after, and online sales will be well underway by then. If for some reason you sleep...

In 2019, when smartphones are slowly but surely getting rid of the 3.5mm audio jack from smartphones and tablets, users are turning to wireless as the next viable option. The Sony WF-1000XM3 is currently the best overall truly wireless earbud around for Android. It features solid sound, long battery life, and class-leading active noise cancelation (ANC).Best Overall: Sony WF-1000XM3There aren't many ANC truly wireless earbuds out there outside of the Sony WF-1000XM3 and AirPods Pro. This is why the Sony WF-1000XM3 is an easy pick when it comes to ANC performance. The design isn't the prettiest, and they're rather bulky, but they get the job done.Battery life is excellent with up to six hours alone and up to 19 hours with the charging case. For a pair of truly wireless ANC earbuds, the WF-1000XM3 perform surprisingly excellent in this department. Of course, as with most ANC headphones, the WF-1000XM3 offer an ambient sound mode that reverses the ANC microphones to allow the ou...

It appears to be for the mobile browser only.What you need to knowGoogle has integrated Lens with the Chrome browser on smartphones.It allows you to now scan images using Lens from within Chrome.You may have to manually enable it.Google Lens is an incredibly useful tool when trying to identify something found in an image. As such, Google has made it a point to integrate it into as many different apps as possible. We've seen it added to Assistant, Google Photos, and it can even be found in the camera app on many phones.Now, Google has taken it even further by adding Lens to the Chrome browser on smartphones. Although, you may have to manually enable the feature before you can use it, at least I know I did. You can do this by typing "chrome://flags" and searching for "lens." From there, you can use the drop-down menu to enable the feature.Afterward, you'll need to relaunch Chrome for it to take effect and then you can begin using Lens from within the Chrome browser. You...

There's a toggle switch, so there must be new display tech to match itWhat you need to knowA Galaxy Note 9 user spotted beta software that included settings for faster refresh rate displays.The settings in the One UI 2 Beta allow users to toggle between 60Hz and 120Hz.No current Samsung phone ships with a 120Hz display, but the Galaxy S11 is rumored to use this tech.We know that Samsung can make faster displays than the 60Hz panels used on the flagship Galaxy Note 10 and Galaxy S10 phones. A teardown of the Google Pixel 4 found that phone using a Samsung-made screen capable of 90Hz refresh rates. Now, Twitter leaker @IceUniverse has posted screenshots of a Samsung One UI beta that appears to allow users to toggle between screen modes with refresh rates up to 120Hz.While the software was shipped for the Chinese variant of the Galaxy Note 9, it seems logical to speculate that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S11 will finally push Samsung back into the display forefront.Someone...

It may soon be able to add Google services to its phones.What you need to knowThe U.S. government announced its intent to allow some companies to resume supplies of 'non-sensitive' tech to Huawei earlier this month.It has now finally gotten around to making decisions on those requests.The department has received over 290 such requests from different firms.Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross confirmed to the Fox Business Network (via Reuters) that his department has started issuing responses to over 290 requests from different American companies to resume supplying some goods to Huawei.News that the Trump administration was considering such licenses — purportedly under direct orders from the President — broke last month. Secretary Ross then confirmed that his department would start issuing licenses "very shortly" a little over two weeks ago, and it seems that's now."We now have been starting to send out the 20-day intent to deny letters and some approvals," said t...

Avoid the games that just want to steal your attention and drain your wallet through micro-transactionsAnyone who's ever perused around the games section of the Google Play Store knows that there are simply too many games for one human being to play themselves. Here at Android Central, one of my primary tasks is to cover the best mobile games available for Android, which necessarily means part of my job involves playing a lot of games that are, to put it mildly, far off from finding a spot on any of our lists.That has lead me to develop a pretty keen sense for determining whether a game is unique and engaging in the right ways. Those are the games that I want to recommend to our loyal readers, because once it's published online, my name is attached to it forever. I want to be able to stand behind the games I recommend and point to them as sterling examples of the best that mobile gaming can offer. First off, it's okay to like the mobile games you likeBefore I ...

Black Friday will be here before you know it. There's only 9 more days until this year's biggest shopping day is actually here, but if you aren't already taking advantage of deals that are available right now, you're missing out. We've researched and found some of the absolute best early Walmart Black Friday deals that are live right now.Knowing where to shop on Black Friday definitely requires some planning and understanding about the benefits of certain retailers. Over the past two or so years, Walmart has made some rather large changes to the way the company handles its online store front, and the outcome has made it far more competitive. From better shipping speeds to a wider variety of products, you'd be silly not to keep an eye on what Walmart is doing for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.Let's take a look at some of the best deals you can buy right now, and then some additional information about Black Friday at Walmart.Best Black Friday deals available right now! Prod...

Best answer: Yes, Disney+ will be coming to Nintendo Switch eventually, but it isn't available just yet. Disney hasn't revealed when we can expect this streaming service to come to the gaming system, either.Think happy thoughts: Disney+ (From $7/mo. at Disney+)Disney+ isn't currently available on Nintendo SwitchA Disney presentation from earlier this year explained that the new Disney+ streaming service would be coming to a wide range of platforms including the Nintendo Switch. However, the presentation further explained that only a few of these platforms would have access to the service at launch on Nov. 12, 2019. Unfortunately, Nintendo Switch was not one of these platforms.Platforms that had Disney+ on launch day:Android mobile devices / Android TVApple devices (iPhones, iPads, Apple TV)ChromecastDesktop web browsersPlaystation 4Roku devices, Roku TVXbox OneIt's unfortunate that Disney+ won't be coming to Switch for a while, given that it launhed right away o...

The automatic call screening feature will likely be available soon, but there is no ETA yet.What you need to knowGoogle may soon enhance the Call Screen feature on Pixel phones to automatically decline robocalls.Currently, the feature requires the user to initiate it and then select a response. While the new Call Screen features are currently being tested, there is no word yet on when the feature will be made available to Pixel users. One of the most useful software features available on the latest Pixel phones is Call Screen, which basically protects you from those annoying robocalls. While the feature in its current form isn't truly "smart", an APK teardown of the latest Google Phone v4.2 by the folks at XDA Developers has revealed that Google is currently working on making Call Screen much more useful by enabling it to screen robocalls automatically.As can be seen in the screenshots below, Pixel users will be able to choose from three options for automatic call screeni...

One thing you may not think about during Black Friday is the "hassle" of switching carriers or upgrading your phone, but that could mean that you're missing out on a pretty great offer that could really benefit you. Not a week goes by that a phone carrier isn't trying to entice people to switch over, but during big shopping events you tend to see them take these offers to the next level.We've seen company's like Mint Mobile offer three months of service for just $20, and others have offered free phones to switch, large gift cards for trading in your current phone, and plenty of other options. This will require you to finance or lease a new phone, usually, and many times you have to either move to a new carrier or add another line in order to qualify.Just because there are a few hoops to get through, doesn't mean you should rule it out entirely. Let's break down some of what you may be interested in.Hey Verizon deals, can you hear me now?Verizon is one of the largest carriers ...

There's still no word as to when Google will launch Fast Share.What you need to knowGoogle Fast Share will let users send files between devices, similar to Apple's AirDrop.XDA Developers spotted new UI elements and icon designs that show some progress is being made with Fast Share.Android has lacked this native feature since Google deprecated Android Beam with Android 10.Google has made some progress building out its upcoming Fast Share feature, according to screenshots posted by XDA Developers Editor-in-Chief Mishaall Rahman on Twitter. The screenshots show new iconography for the Google Fast Share button in the Share card, as well as redesigned interface elements throughout the sharing procedure.The hope is that Google's Fast Share will be as easy to use as Apple's AirDrop feature. Early previews of Fast Share hinted that the service might work across platforms with Chrome OS, iOS, and even wearable devices in the mix, but nothing official has been announced.In case y...

The vulnerability was also found to be present on phones from other Android smartphones.What you need to knowA vulnerability found by security researchers at Checkmarx allowed for an app with only storage permissions to access the camera on your Android phone to take photos and videos.The flaw was found to be present in the Google Camera and Samsung Camera apps, as well as other Android OEMs.Samsung and Google have since patched the flaw and Google has informed all its OEM partners and issued them patches for the vulnerability.Recently, a security flaw was made public that allowed the camera on your Android phone to spy on you. The vulnerability was found by security researchers at Checkmarx, and it allowed for an app with only storage permissions to take control of the camera app on your phone to take photos and videos.The team at Checkmarx found this vulnerability to be present in both the Google Camera and Samsung Camera apps, as well as camera apps from other smartpho...

So fast it's got to be Alien technology.What you need to knowAmpliFi Alien is a single router that delivers whole-home tri-band gigabit Wi-Fi.Wi-Fi 6 is supported and can be used on any supported device.Alien supports the AmpliFi Teleport free VPN service as well as simple set up and per-device management via the AmpliFi app.Nest Wifi might be the most beautiful Wi-Fi system on the planet, but Ubiquiti is amping the game up by providing the speeds and latest tech it knows its users crave. AmpliFi Alien is a brand new router from Ubiquiti Networks, and it delivers the absolute fastest speeds you'll find from any router that the company sells. AmpliFi Alien is available right now for $379 via AmpliFi.com and is the only router you'll need in your home.AmpliFi Alien is designed to be a single monolithic router that provides all your networking needs and delivers true gigabit wireless to all the devices in your home without the need for any mesh points. That's because Ubiquit...

There are some great mesh systems to choose from; which is the right one for you?Most people don't put enough thought into their wireless router. Things like the layout of your house, how it's built, and how many stories it is all matter when you want good Wi-Fi from one end to the other. Or maybe you need to plug something into a router with a network cable in one room but still want great Wi-Fi everywhere else. With so many things to get connected and so many different ways to connect them, having a good home network is important. Naturally, we all want our Wi-Fi to be fast and strong, and we're quick to fuss when it's not. Even when it's our fault.This is where wireless mesh networking comes into play. Sometimes one central wireless access point that sends out a powerful signal in all directions is perfect. But often a mesh system that can smother everywhere in your home with a Wi-Fi signal is better. There's a big difference between Wi-Fi in your house that works and Wi-Fi in...

Easy set up with plenty of helpful features.There are so many different smart locks on the market these days it can make it difficult knowing which one is best for your home. I've honestly been wary about adding a smart lock to my own home since I was concerned about how difficult the process might be — especially about whether my installation attempt would damage my door. I found installing the Schlage Encode surprisingly easy and have grown to love this device. It makes me feel safe and easily operates at the tap of a finger.Though it's pricier than most other smart locks, it offers abilities that warrant the cost. The number one feature being the built-in Wi-Fi. It makes it so you can effortlessly control the lock through the internet without needing to purchase an additional hub. When it's all set up, you can control your lock by using your smartphone, by giving a voice command to your smart home assistant, or by punching a code in on the keypad — whichever is ea...

Microsoft plans to integrate several popular Google services into Outlook.com.What you need to knowMicrosoft plans to integrate Google Calendar, Gmail, and Google Drive into Outlook.com.Microsoft is already testing this integration.With this new feature, people can sign into Outlook and Google accounts side by side.Microsoft plans to integrate several Google services into Outlook.com, including Google Drive, Google Calendar, and Gmail (via The Verge).Twitter user Florian B gained access to the new feature, showing the option to add a Google account directly into Outlook.com.According to The Verge, there is a quick process to set up the new feature. After this process, you can link your Google account to your Outlook.com account. Following this, your Gmail emails, Google Drive contents, and your Google Calendar will automatically sync within Outlook.com.This feature appears to be in early testing. The option did not show up in our testing, and according to Florian, you c...

The first Android 10 beta update for the Galaxy S9 series phones is expected to be released next week.What you need to knowThe Android 10-based One UI 2.0 beta program for the Galaxy Note 9 is now live in South Korea and the UK.Samsung's first One UI 2.0 beta build for the Galaxy Note 9 brings all the standard Android 10 features, along with several improvements to the company's custom Android skin. To download the update, you will first have to sign up for the beta program from the Samsung Members app. A month after kicking off the Android 10-based One UI 2.0 beta program for the Galaxy S10 series, Samsung today added the Galaxy Note 9 to the beta program. The first Android 10 beta update for the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is now available (via SamMobile) for download in South Korea as well as the UK. In the coming days, we expect the beta update to become available for users in the U.S., Germany, France, Spain, India, and a few other countries.If you live in the UK or South ...

Get the lowdown on Mint Mobile's coverage, pricing, phones, and more.The wireless carrier space is a neverending battle between T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint. However, underneath the four big dogs is a collection of smaller brands tapping into their networks to deliver excellent wireless coverage at a fraction of the price.One such company is Mint Mobile (formally known as Mint SIM), and if you've been searching for a new way to buy phone service that can help you save a heap of money, it may be worth a look.Here's everything you need to know!Start by reading our reviewLet's talk pricingMint Mobile has great coverageHotspot access is freeSo, what phones does Mint sell?You can also BYOPBuy in bulkMint MobileFrom $15/month at Mint MobileA unique take on affordable wireless serviceBuying things in bulk usually results in a lower price over the long-term, and Mint Mobile brings that mentality to the wireless space. You buy three, six, or 12 months o...

Best answer: While Mint Mobile operates on T-Mobile's network in the U.S., it's actually owned by Ultra Mobile, another MVNO.Get in on this plan: Mint Mobile ($45 for 3 months at Mint Mobile)The origins of Mint MobileMint Mobile is a unique prepaid carrier that sells its plans in multi-month bundles, rather than on a per-month basis. With prices starting as low as $15 a month, you can buy up to a year of service at once and enjoy up to 12GB of LTE each month.Because Mint Mobile uses T-Mobile's towers in the U.S. for its service, it's easy to assume that it's owned by T-Mobile as well, but Mint Mobile is actually a subsidiary of Ultra Mobile, another MVNO (mobile virtual network operator). Ultra Mobile, founded Mint in 2016 under the name Mint SIM, sells SIM cards online and through partnering retailers rather than in its own physical stores. Mint SIM was rebranded to Mint Mobile in May of 2018.Like many other prepaid carriers, Mint Mobile offers unlimited calls, texting, an...

The OnePlus 7 Pro is hundreds of dollars less than the Galaxy S10+, but there are enticing reasons to consider Samsung's latest.Amazing valueOnePlus 7 Pro$670 at OnePlusProsBrilliant 90Hz displayFantastic performanceSimple and intuitive softwareThe best possible spec sheetConsCameras are a step downNo water resistance ratingNo wireless chargingNo headphone jackOnePlus has done it again with the 7 Pro, offering an exceptional phone for a surprisingly low price. This time around we get much-improved hardware, an excellent 90Hz display and little bonuses like great haptics. The specs are incredible, as is the performance. But the new triple camera unfortunately comes up short.All-around bestSamsung Galaxy S10+$1000 at AmazonProsBest display in the industryRelatively compact and lightHigher quality across all camerasHeadphone jack and SD card slotWireless chargingConsConsiderably more expensiveCumbersome software tougher to learn...

Best answer: If you want to buy the Galaxy Note 10, we'd recommend doing so directly from Samsung's website. Every model of the phone is available, along with all of the offered colors. However, feel free to shop around at your preferred carrier or another online retailer if you want to get an idea of all the various sales and promotions.The "cheap" option: Galaxy Note 10 (From $950 at Samsung)Ultimate Note: Galaxy Note 10+ (From $1100 at Samsung)5G all the things: Galaxy Note 10+ 5G (From $1300 at Samsung)We recommend buying the Note 10 from Samsung's websiteThere are a lot of places selling the Galaxy Note 10, but at the end of the day, we think Samsung is the best place to get the phone at. Why? There are a few reasons for this.For starters, every color variant of the Note 10 is being offered — including the Nebula Blue hue that's carried exclusively on Samsung's website and at Best Buy. A lot of carriers only offer a handpicked selection of colors for the Note...

Motorola is going all-out this year with the Moto G7 series, launching four models at the same time. We've been covering Motorola phones for years and know that its budget phones have always stood for reliability and value.Moto G7Budget king$300 at AmazonProsReliable performancePremium designWorks on all U.S. carriersClean softwareConsSlow updatesNo NFCThe Moto G7 is an all-rounder that gets the basics right. The hardware on offer is powerful for most day-to-day tasks, and the camera also holds up well. The glass back gives it a more premium feel, and Motorola has cut down on the bezels up front by switching to a waterdrop cutout. The 3000mAh battery easily delivers a day's worth of use, and the software doesn't have a lot of clutter. Overall, the Moto G7 is a great budget phone for 2019.Moto G7 PowerBattery champion$250 at AmazonProsGreat valueInsane battery lifeRobust internalsWorks on all U.S. carriersCons720p display No NFCSlow up...

It used to be that Black Friday deals were only available on Friday, but now it's turned into a month-long event that seems to get bigger and bigger each year. While some of the best deals may only be available on Black Friday, and doorbuster offerings may start as early as the evening of Thanksgiving Day, that doesn't mean that you can't already score some pretty wild deals right this very minute.Retailers are trying to maximize exposure during this time of the year, which means that select items are going on sale ahead of the big day. You may be wondering if the prices will drop lower on Black Friday, or if it's worth shopping early, so let's answer some of your questions, and show you some of the best deals. We are currently just 9 days away from Black Friday, so it's time to get serious here.Best Black Friday deals available right now! Product or Service Deal Price Wireless Charging Accessories Up to 35% off at Amazon Alex Brand Toys Up to 35% off at Ama...

You can now see all neighborhoods where Verizon's 5G ultra wideband network is available.What you need to knowVerizon has finally published 5G coverage maps for the 18 cities where its 5G Ultra Wideband service is currently available.The largest carrier in the U.S. is planning to expand its 5G network to 30 cities before the end of the year.Earlier this week, Big Red had announced the expansion of its 5G network to Boston, Houston, and Sioux Falls. Nearly seven months after rolling out its 5G network in parts of Chicago and Minneapolis, Verizon is finally offering 5G coverage maps (via PCMag) for the 18 cities where its "ultra wideband" network is currently being offered. These new maps give users a detailed view of all the neighborhoods where they can find a 5G ultra wideband signal. While Verizon is working with Boingo to get its 5G service to work better indoors, the maps show that the carrier's 5G coverage is currently limited to just the major streets in most cities....