Saturday 30 April 2022

These are signs that your phone could be infected with malware

Phone acting funny and wonky lately? It could be nothing or it could be that malware has infected your phone.

The Pixel Watch's battery life could last a bit longer than the Galaxy Watch 4

The latest Pixel Watch leak seems to suggest that Google is serious about taking its fight to the Galaxy Watch 4.

Buyers of 2022 iPhone models will have tough decisions to make based on pricing

2022 iPhone buyers will have some tough choices to make about whether to buy a Pro or non-Pro model.

The best Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra cases in 2022

The Galaxy S22 Ultra has done something many Samsung fans have wanted for a long time — combine the S and Note series into one true flagship. Like the Ultras and Notes before it, the S22 Ultra is a massive metal and glass sandwich, so you'll want to take good care of it. One sure way of keeping a phone like this safe is putting it in a solid case, and we've rounded up some of the best Galaxy S22 Ultra cases available right now. As always, we'll be updating this post with more cases as we try them.



PlayStation recap: Sony invests $1 billion in Epic Games and the metaverse

Despite not releasing any notable games in April, Sony made waves with a big investment in Epic Games. PlayStation also revealed when players can expect the new PS Plus overhaul to launch.

YouTube TV is getting the long overdue account switcher feature

YouTube TV is finally allowing subscribers who use multiple accounts on their TVs to switch between them on the fly.

Hidden code reveals plan to add search shortcuts to Pixel Launcher

Based on hidden code found in the Android System Intelligence app, Google is working on a shortcut that searches certain apps from the Pixel Launcher.

T-Mobile's new Price Lock guarantee is guaranteed to confuse everyone

If you're a current T-Mobile subscriber who may be eyeing a change of service plans, be aware that your rights as a customer will be affected by a needle-in-the-haystack change to some terms and conditions. Even if you're just jumping on board, you may want to watch when you add new lines to your account.



Friday 29 April 2022

The Pixel Watch leak has us cautiously optimistic

We asked our readers if they would purchase the Pixel Watch if the leaks represented the final design. The results indicate there is interest, but we want to know more.

Get ready: ChromeOS drops the space in Canary version 103

Chrome OS is Google’s operating system for laptops (Chromebooks, to be precise), built around the company’s browser of the same name. For years, the software has gone by the official designation of Chrome OS written in two words. But it looks like that could change soon, as reports suggest that Google is doing away with the space, leaving us with "ChromeOS."



Snap reveals its Pixy drone for recording video from above

Snap, the parent of Snapchat, has introduced the Pixy. The latter is a battery-operated drone that can fly up to an altitude of 10-feet while video is being recorded.

Best premium Android games 2022

Yes, you have to pay upfront for most games without ads or in-app purchases, but then you have the satisfaction of actually playing the game instead of being bothered with offers every two minutes. So here are the best Android games without those pesky IAPs!

Pixel Launcher universal search may let you search inside more apps, could come to third-party launchers

When you think of a Pixel, you might think of a great camera, features like automatic call screening, or even the many Pixel bugs, but there are other perks to ownership. The Pixel Launcher is so popular that some folk install third-party home screen replacements to mimic how it looks. In Android 12, it picked up universal search, with support for finding screenshots, widgets, and even queries in Google Search — as in "Googling" it. According to a recent teardown, it may pick up the same level of search integration to find things in Maps, YouTube, Settings, and the Play Store. And, based on a recent bug filed to the issue tracker, third-party launcher integration for universal search is on Google's roadmap.



Best Google Pixel 6 cases 2022

The best Pixel 6 cases blend grip, protection, and style into one complete package. Here are some of the best!

Thursday 28 April 2022

OnePlus and Realme were the fastest growing brands in India last quarter

OnePlus and Realme were the fastest growing brands in India between January and March.

AT&T will basically give you a Galaxy S22 for your crappy old Samsung phone

AT&T has brought back its fan-favorite Samsung Galaxy S22 trade-in deal for Mother's Day. That means you can trade in any Galaxy S, Note, or Z phone (as well as plenty of other models from LG, Google, OnePlus, or Motorola) and get a "free" Galaxy S22 via $800 in bill credits. If the S22 isn't your style, you can apply that to the Galaxy Z Flip, Z Fold3, or even a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro.



iPhone 14 series display panel leak confirms the worst fear about the i-cutout design

Leaked images show display panels for all the iPhone 14 models.

Google Search improves its measures to help you fight doxxing

The permanence of the internet is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you can find and reference events that took place years ago; on the other, any uploaded personal information is unlikely to vanish forever, whether or not it could compromise your data or include damaging results that can harm your personal or professional standing. So limiting the visibility of such content is crucial — that’s where Google Search’s personal info removal request policy comes in. It’s been in place for years, and now, the company’s expanding what content you can ask to be taken down as part of a policy update.



New video illustrates key differences between iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 series

New video captures the key differences between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 range.

Wednesday 27 April 2022

Best Three Mobile phone deals (April 2022)

Three is offering some of the best deals on iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones you can find in the UK, coming packed with the carrier's Unlimited plans.

Pixel Watch leak may have revealed its price, but it could see a limited release

A new leak claims that the upcoming Google Pixel Watch will cost the same as the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, but it may only be available in limited quantities.

Apple's DIY repair program is live, offering genuine parts, tools, and manuals

Apple first announced its DIY repair program late last year, giving a massive win to right-to-repair enthusiasts everywhere and likely spurring Google and Samsung to offer similar solutions. At the time, we had plenty of questions regarding when it would be available, how much it would cost, and when the company would eventually add support for older phones. We're learning the answers to some of those questions with today's official launch.



Google introduces ads in YouTube Shorts

You will now see app-install ads and other promotions on YouTube Shorts

Sony could launch the Xperia 1 IV very soon, teases 'exciting announcement' on May 11

Sony has a new announcement set for May 11. We expect the company will launch the Xperia 1 IV with upgraded cameras and specs.

Best Samsung Galaxy S22 deals and prices: {month} {year}

Samsung Galaxy S22 deals are pouring in, so we've put together a list of the best promotions we could find

Tuesday 26 April 2022

Starlink partners with Hawaiian Airlines to upgrade your in-flight Wi-Fi

Thanks to a newly announced partnership with Starlink, Hawaiian Airlines will provide free in-flight internet for passengers. Installation of the service begins in 2023.

Android 13 Beta 1 is whipping its big screen taskbar mode into shape

Android 13 Beta 1 has finally landed—we almost thought it wouldn't make the cut ahead of Google I/O 2022 given that the company was a bit behind schedule. While Google hasn't announced too much for this release, there are many new things hidden in this version. Among them is a change for big screen devices that brings their app drawer up to par with the standard launcher, with it finally receiving the familiar old intelligent suggestions at the top.



T-Mobile's exclusive unlimited Google Photos option is here, and this is how you can get it

T-Mobile's special Google One plan including unlimited Photos storage can be redeemed starting today if you follow these simple instructions.

Best Google Pixel 6 Pro screen protectors 2022

Your Google Pixel 6 Pro's curved screen makes finding a great screen protector more difficult, and the in-screen fingerprint threw another wrench in the works after the phone's launch.

Android 13 Beta 1 just quadrupled its Material You theme options

Fans of Material You and Android's snazzy new dynamic theming system will be excited to note that the Android 13 Beta 1 release finally includes the long-leaked and previously hidden new color options, letting you pick between more muted or vibrant tones. There are sixteen color options now available.



Here's what Elon Musk could've bought for $44 billion instead of Twitter

Musk will buy the angry social screaming app for a huge pile of cash — but there were so many other options.

Monday 25 April 2022

Samsung teases us with Google Assistant on the Galaxy Watch4 in its latest video

The Samsung Galaxy Watch4 is the best Android smartwatch we've seen, and it looks like it's getting even better: Google Assistant support is confirmed to be arriving for the Galaxy Watch4 soon. While the Watch4 already has voice assistant support through Samsung's own Bixby, users have been quite vocal about their desire for Google's alternative. We still don't know for sure exactly when it will land, but Google Assistant is already taking center stage in a new Galaxy Watch4 ad posted to Samsung's Spanish YouTube channel.



TSMC to reap $17 billion in revenue from Apple alone in 2022

TSMC says that it will take on $17 billion from Apple alone in 2022, a 23% hike from the nearly $14 billion that Apple generated for the foundry last year.

How to use Google Lens to search with text and images simultaneously

Google Lens has a new feature that allows users to perform searches using both images and text. This how-to shows you how to use the feature to refine your searches.

Elon Musk to acquire Twitter for about $44 billion

Twitter will now be owned by Elon Musk, who will take the company private. He bought the company for about $44 billion.

Elon Musk is buying Twitter for $44 billion

Less than a month after Elon Musk became Twitter's single largest shareholder, the Tesla CEO has officially purchased Twitter for about $44 billion in cash at $54.20 per share, taking the company private in the process. This move comes after Twitter's board had publicly floated the option of a poison pill strategy, only to accept Musk's offer this afternoon.



AT&T trumps T-Mobile and Verizon with two new unlimited 5G plan perks

AT&T is preparing to further improve the already excellent value of its unlimited 5G plans in a couple of essentially unparalleled ways.

Samsung Galaxy S22 series starts receiving the May 2022 security update

Galaxy S22 devices have begun to receive the May 2022 update, which features the latest security enhancements. The rollout appears to have begun in several Asian countries.

Google pulled the Pixel 6 Pro face unlock feature at the last minute

Face and fingerprint unlocking may still supplement each other on the 6 Pro with the next quarterly update.

Sunday 24 April 2022

Google's first smartwatch will definitely be called the 'Pixel Watch,' trademark shows

Google has filed a trademark application for the Pixel Watch ahead of the wearable device's rumored unveiling at Google I/O next month.

Twitter board is reportedly reconsidering Elon Musk's $46.5B acquisition bid

Twitter's board is said to be seriously considering Elon Musk's takeover bid more than a week after it adopted a "poison pill" to block such a move.

Refurbished smartphone sales grew 15% globally in 2021 ; Apple, Samsung were numbers 1 and 2

Apple and Samsung were numbers 1 and 2 in revenue of refurbished smartphone sales in 2021.

Google fixes its confusing cookie banner in Europe with a 'reject all' button

Google is making the option to reject all cookies at once more visible in its cookie banner with a new single-click button, but only for European users.

The best Android phones in 2022

While Android phones come in all sizes, shapes, and price points, there are still some that stand above the rest of the market by a wide margin. From the best foldable phones to the latest specs and software, these phones earn their flagship pricing and then some. Before you spend days wading through our exceptional reviews, let us first examine the best Android phones you can buy today.



Weekend poll: What kind of smartwatch, fitness tracker, or other wearable are you using?

We've heard word of a Pixel Watch coming down the line for years now, but it only started to turn into reality a few months ago. An initial leak gave us some details about what to expect from Google's first Pixel-branded wearable, and this week, that slow trickle of information turned into a flood. It might be enough to get some users to upgrade from their current devices and to get others to buy their first smartwatch.



Saturday 23 April 2022

Leaked Pixel Watch photos offer our best look yet at the design, proprietary watch bands

There's a new torrent of Pixel leaks for us to reckon with, but this time, unusually, it's not for a phone but a smartwatch. Evidence of the Pixel Watch's existence and imminent announcement has leaked several times over the past few weeks, with today's taking the Upside Down Cake as the most interesting.



Google reveals one interesting bit of information about 2023's Android 14

We already know the internal dessert codename for next year's Android 14. According to the AOSP, that name will be Upside Down Cake.

Google Pixel Watch: Exclusive leaked images seem to show Google's first smartwatch

A Google Pixel Watch was reportedly found at a restaurant in the U.S., and Android Central got the images of what could be the company's first wearable.

Google Photos 'chips' for quickly interacting with image text now appearing widely

Google Photos and Google Lens are a pair of very powerful companions for your phone's camera. For a while, the Photos app has offered integration with Lens to handle text inside both images you snap yourself, as well as screenshots — it may not be 100% accurate, but it works impressively well. In an attempt to make these features more accessible to users, last month Google started testing new "chip" shortcuts when detecting there's text in an image. The experience is now rolling out widely and should be available on most devices.



Pixel 6 Pro user spots evidence of face unlock feature

Back in 2019, the Pixel 4 debuted with a pretty elaborate face unlock system. For whatever reason, Google ended up rethink its approach to biometrics, and the 4a and 5 functioned with fingerprint sensors alone. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro came out in late 2021 and still, there was no sign that face unlock was returning. Following the discovery of some evidence suggesting there still might be ongoing work towards updating these phones with full face unlock support, a new report offers an insider look at the plan.



Samsung's next big-boy foldable won't get a bigger battery

We're probably still months away from learning anything official about Samsung’s next-gen foldable phones, but leaks have already started to paint of picture of what to expect from the Galaxy Z Fold4. One new report, for instance, suggests the phone could enjoy a much-needed camera upgrade while also arriving in a slightly different aspect ratio. Now the latest finds add new support for some of those rumors, while also dashing our hopes of any big improvements to battery capacity.



Friday 22 April 2022

Google wants to declutter the smart home by adding more displays

Smart displays are great but sometimes they're a little too chaotic. Google wants to bring more displays to the smart home that deliver bespoke information instead of everything at once.

Android 13 isn't even here yet, but we know what Google is calling Android 14

We're still awaiting the arrival of Android 13, but Google has already decided on the dessert name for Android 14.

Amazon Smart Thermostat vs. Nest Thermostat: Pick the right HVAC upgrade

Amazon and Google are both leaders in smart home tech and that extends to smart thermostats, with Google's Nest Thermostat and the Amazon Smart Thermostat. The one that's best for you depends on how much you can spend and what devices you already have.

Samsung might completely change how it brands its upcoming Galaxy Watch5 wearables

Last year, Samsung released the Galaxy Watch4 series, devices that many consider to be the greatest Android smartwatches ever made. It's safe to say that this year's successors have a lot to live up to, especially with a potential Pixel Watch waiting in the wings. A new rumor points to a major rebrand for the gadgets, but it could come with the loss of one of the Galaxy Watch's best features.



Apple's iOS is slowly cutting into Android's global market share lead

Over the last few years, the Android OS has lost some global market share to iOS although it still has a big lead.

Best refurbished phones 2022

Flagship phones are great. Paying full price for them isn’t. Refurbished phones let you get a flagship device for a fraction of the cost — and these are our favorites.

Thursday 21 April 2022

Chrome's taking steps to ensure your gaming habit doesn't make you a target for data miners

Who hasn't played a game in their web browser? While you easily have a lot of fun clicking and tapping away, modern web browsers also offer a Gamepad API to support physical controllers connected to your device — and there are a lot of great gamepad options out there. Unfortunately, actors with malicious intent could potentially use your pad's data to track you online. As a result, many browsers have restricted the API to protect their users, and now Google is doing the same.



A 'vanilla' OnePlus 10 is definitely happening, and here are (almost) all of its key specs

That long-overdue non-Pro OnePlus 10 is finally coming... at some point this year with some pretty impressive specs revealed in full today.

Best Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra cases 2022

The gloriously overpowered Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra offers plenty of screen real estate. This means that it needs a rock-solid case to ensure that the display and slim body stay intact.

TSMC founder Chang says that the U.S. has the world's best chip designers

TSMC founder Morris Chang says that the U.S. does not have the talent to open chip manufacturing facilities in the states, but is the best at designing chips.

Best travel cases for PS5 in 2022

The PS5 is a huge console, and if you ever want to take it with you while on vacation or traveling, you'll likely need something to keep it safe. Here are some of the best options available.

Samsung unveils sustainable Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy S21 accessories for Earth Day 2022

Samsung has partnered with Sean Wotherspoon on a collection of sustainable cases, watch bands, and watch faces for the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy Watch 4. The cases and watch bands are available for purchase on Earth Day.

How to stop foreground services from the notification drawer in Android 13

Android 13 adds a new feature that lets you easily keep tabs on apps that might be consuming resources in the background.

Best game controllers to use with Android emulators 2022

While there are more games on the Play Store than one could count, the true power of Android gaming is unleashed once you get into playing those classic games with an emulator. But to ensure the best experience possible, you'll want to make sure you are using the best controllers.

Wednesday 20 April 2022

'Very strong' Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 launch and price cuts might be in the pipeline

Early production signals suggest Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 could substantially outsell their predecessors, possibly at lower prices.

Evernote update optimizes the app for Chromebooks with a more intuitive UI

Evernote has updated its app to provide a more fluid and user-friendly interface on Chromebooks.

WhatsApp could introduce a new subscription plan for extended multi-device support

WhatsApp only recently gained proper support for multiple devices – something that’s been possible with Telegram for years now. While you were able to chat on a couple of devices using the same account, everything was still tied to your phone as the primary point of contact. Thankfully the app recently changed that, untethering other logged-in devices and allowing you to access WhatsApp even when your phone’s dead or doesn't have a signal. While up to four linked devices are supported with the current implementation, a new subscription offering might just permit even more than that.



Don't miss this rare discount on the newest iPad Pro at Amazon

This year's iPad Air complicates things with the iPad Pro a bit. At $600, it shares Pro's M1 chipset, making the fancier model's $800 price tag look a bit high. Still, the Pro's got plenty of advantages over the Air: a better display, better speakers, and more storage, to name a few. And right now, you can get the M1 iPad Pro starting at $700 on Amazon — $100 off its MSRP.



Google Pixel Watch: Everything you need to know

Google has not seen much success with Wear OS in the near-decade since it launched, and the blame largely lies with itself. Wearables have been neglected for years, missing out on meaningful updates and any significant hardware refreshes. However, since partnering with Samsung last year, Wear OS has made a comeback of sorts. To make this transition successful, Wear OS needs a hero device. This year, the big G is rumored to launch the Pixel Watch to fill those shoes. This is everything that rumors have told us about Google's upcoming wearable so far.



Samsung tops a declining smartphone market thanks to the Galaxy S22, A-series phones

A preliminary report shows a decline in smartphone shipments during Q1 2022. However, Samsung and Apple increased their shipments, carving out 24% and 18% market share, respectively.

Best Oculus Quest 2 prices and deals in April 2022

Finding a discounted Oculus Quest 2 can be a challenge, so we've scoured the web for the best deals and put them all into a simple guide for easy access.

Tuesday 19 April 2022

Google is giving away a free Titan Security Key to select Google One subscribers

If you're a Google One Premium subscriber, you can get a Titan Security Key for free. This is the best way to add two-factor authentication to your Google account, even if it is a bit less convenient.

The best OnePlus 10 Pro cases in 2022

With a beautiful screen and excellent battery, the OnePlus 10 Pro looks to draw in users with powerful specs and a luscious texture across the Gorilla Glass 5 backplate. As lovely as it feels, you need to cover it up and get some substantial grip, protection against scratches or falls, and maybe some color to jazz things up. Thankfully, we got plenty of name-brand cases for OnePlus launches these days, which means no waiting for the best OnePlus 10 Pro cases to arrive.



How to find and support eco-friendly places on Google Maps

Google knows it's essential to help save the environment, but it's taking more of a DIY approach to finding eco-friendly businesses. We'll show you how to support those businesses in your community.

Samsung #YouMake is Moto Maker for your smart home

Who doesn't love being able to add a little customization to what they're buying? Late last year, Samsung made an attempt to fill the Moto Maker-sized hole in our hearts with the launch of the Bespoke Edition of its Galaxy Z Flip3 foldable. Shoppers could pick from a selection of colors to create a custom combination for the back panel that best suited their personality. Samsung's been expanding those efforts, roping in product categories like smartwatches and even its appliances. This week the company reveals its full campaign aimed at helping promote all these customization options.



Monday 18 April 2022

More Galaxy Watch 4 owners are finally receiving these long-awaited health features

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has been picking up a good number of updates lately, and Canadian owners are getting some excellent health monitoring features in a new OTA.

Smart home company Insteon appears to have silently died, leaving customers in the dark

One of the biggest fears you can have when you start to invest in smart home gadgets (outside the concern of privacy invasion) is, "what happens if the brand I chose ends support or shuts down?" For customers of Insteon, this is a fear that's playing out right now as they experience their third day of service outages. There's been no official word yet, but things don't look good: The company's forums are down, and executives (including the president and chairman of Insteon's parent company) are distancing themselves from the company. By all appearances, Insteon is dead.



Yield on Samsung's 3nm chip production reportedly drops to a 10-20% range

A report released today says that Samsung's yield on the production of its 3nm Gate-all-around chipsets is a poor 10% to 20%, even worse than the 35% yield on its 4nm chips.

Best cheap Chromebook prices and deals: April 2022

If you need a simple and affordable laptop, a Chromebook is always a solid choice. This guide has all of the best Chromebook deals of the month.

Best security cameras that work with Amazon Alexa 2022

Home security cameras are growing in popularity because they're functional, and adding Alexa is a great way to get even more out of yours. Here are the best Alexa-compatible security cameras available right now.

Google is testing a combined Security & Privacy menu for Android 13

With Android 13 DP2, we got our first glimpse of an updated Security & Privacy shortcut in Quick Settings, combining the camera, microphone, and location toggles into one shared space. The option to dive into Android's Security menu was listed alongside these settings. Today, we're getting a glimpse into what might become of that main hub with this year's update.



Sunday 17 April 2022

Set to be unveiled in three days, Realme Q5 images and specs are released by regulatory agencies

Images and specs of the Realme Q5 are included in the documentation released by China's versions of the FCC and UL Labs.

Google Lens for desktop Chrome picks up one of its best features on mobile

Google is beefing up Lens on Chrome's desktop version with a new update that allows you to copy and translate texts in addition to searching for images.

This 4-year-old Samsung Galaxy phone still gets monthly Android security updates

Samsung is still pushing monthly security updates for the Galaxy Note 9 even after moving the phone to a quarterly update schedule last year.

Leaker reveals which iPhones will be phased out after iPhone 14 arrives

Leaker reveals which iPhones will be discontinued and which models will receive a price cut after iPhone 14 launch.

Even more iPhone 14 schematics leak, showing the differences between the four models

Rough iPhone 14 series schematics illustrate the possible differences between the four models.

Twitter's edit button surfaces although it won't work right now

A preview of Twitter's edit button shows how users will be able to make changes to their posts once the feature is officially announced.

Blind camera comparison: Galaxy S22 Ultra vs iPhone 13 Pro, Pixel 6 Pro, OnePlus 10 Pro

Three Pros and one Ultra - a great selection of camera phones. Which one will fare the best in our bkind camera comparison?

Saturday 16 April 2022

This Android TV 13 feature will allow smart TVs to save energy and bandwidth use

Google has quietly added a new feature in Android 13 that restricts apps and blocks network access when an Android TV device is in standby mode.

New leak says Samsung will be the sole OLED supplier for only one iPhone 14 model

In a bid to reduce reliance on Samsung, Apple will procure a larger number of screens for the iPhone 14 from LG and BOE.

Four-year-old accidentally places $100 Uber Eats order and leaves nice tip

A four-year-old gains access to the Uber Eats app on one of his parents' devices and accidentally orders $100 worth of coffee and cake pops.

Google Sheets update will fix your messy formulas

Google Sheets has gained a new context-aware tool that identifies problems with your formulas and recommends solutions.

Amazon brings TuneIn's premium content to Alexa-enabled devices

Amazon has partnered with TuneIn, a live streaming platform, to bring paid audio content to Alexa-powered devices.

How you can set YouTube to always show videos in the highest picture quality

Want to see YouTube videos on your phone looking sharp and clear by default? Here is how you can change the settings on the app to accomplish this.

Friday 15 April 2022

How to use Facebook Messenger on Oculus Quest to chat with and call friends

Want to talk with friends without interrupting your VR session? There’s an easy way to do it.

Best AT&T phones 2022

As one of the largest networks, AT&T has many phones to choose from. Looking to buy a new phone with AT&T? Here are the very best ones you can get.

Google Lens for desktop Chrome just got a whole lot more useful

Google has been working to integrate Lens into many other apps to help users quickly find relevant information about images. The tool has been a part of the Google Chrome mobile app since 2019 as the de facto way to perform image searches. Lens eventually arrived in desktop Chrome as a direct replacement for the right-click reverse image search. Now, it’s getting updated to do more than just search for images.



Twitter adopts 'poison pill' to block Elon Musk takeover

Twitter has announced a shareholder rights plan, or "poison pill," to protect the company from potential takeover attempts. The move is clearly in protest of Elon Musk's bid to buy the company.

Latest Pixel Watch leak swears it's very nearly, right-around-the-corner, definitely launching super-duper soon

Android fans have been dreaming about the idea of a Google-made Pixel smartwatch for years upon years now, and while plenty of those rumors have fizzled out, this year it's looking increasingly likely that it's actually going to happen. Recent evidence has sure suggested that carriers may be preparing for the wearable's imminent arrival, and now the latest leak from Evan Blass squirts a little bit of extra fuel on that fire.



It looks like Google is set to remove our favorite Chromebook unlocking feature

It won't be long before Smart Lock is removed from Chromebooks for some unknown reason.

Thursday 14 April 2022

Google's Weather Frog clock face hops on over to the latest Nest Hub

Last year, Google added the Weather Frog photo frame to its lineup of smart displays, giving users a friendly fellow to showcase current conditions in a fun and animated fashion. Although we've seen evidence that even more animal assistants are on the way, the second-gen Nest Hub never actually got support for the original character. That's finally changing, as Google's latest smart display is now home to our favorite frog.



Amazon launches kid-friendly mobile games for Android and iOS

Amazon has announced that it is bringing its first original Amazon Kids+ games to iOS and Android devices. They will also be available on Amazon Fire tablets.

Samsung Galaxy S20 displays are mysteriously failing

Samsung phones usually have excellent displays, but that doesn't mean they're perfect. Last year we learned about a spate of dying Galaxy S20 screens, where the phone would show a green tint and have visible lines running across it. We hoped that would have been the end of things, but now, less than a year later, another display problem seems to be affecting some unlucky Galaxy S20 phones.



Best emulators for Android 2022

Want to play old-school games but don't have the original consoles? Welcome to the world of emulators!

Best wireless home security cameras 2022

Battery-powered security cameras are an excellent solution when you need a security camera but don't have a plug nearby. We've gathered the most trusted varieties so that you can choose the best option for your home.

Wednesday 13 April 2022

Chromecast: Everything you need to know

Interested in learning more about Google Chromecast? Here's everything you need to know!

Clubhouse is still a thing, and it's getting in-room gaming

Lockdown-induced boredom led to plenty of people looking for new ways to connect with others online. Social audio app Clubhouse emerged as one of the more popular solutions and quickly amassed millions of downloads – June 2021 alone saw the influx of nearly 6 million new users. But as quarantines lifted and people started to go about with their lives, that rapid growth began to cool down. To jazz things up and maybe even pull some users back, Clubhouse is now testing a new in-room gaming feature.



Nest Hub Max may soon let you summon Google Assistant without saying a word

Google might be close to releasing a new camera sensing feature that will enable Nest Hub Max owners to activate Assistant just by looking at their smart display.

Niantic's upcoming virtual pet AR game sounds like Pokémon GO crossed with Pikmin Bloom

Niantic has just announced a brand-new collection-based augmented reality game. Seeing that this is just about the only style of game the developer creates, it comes as no surprise. What is surprising is that there's no brand attached; this is a fresh creation directly from Niantic, known as Peridot, and it would appear that pet rearing is a focus. Peridot offers Tamagotchi-like mechanics where you'll raise and unlock new forms of adorable pets, combined with daily walks, and it will enter soft-launch on Android and iOS sometime soon.



Best Google Pixel 6 deals and Google Pixel 6 Pro deals: {month} {year}

Looking to save some money on a Google Pixel 6 or a Pixel 6 Pro? We gathered the best deals of the month and put them into one simple guide.

Tuesday 12 April 2022

Samsung might soon offer recycled parts for phone repairs

Regardless of whether you've splurged on a flagship phone, or opted to stick with a budget device, the day might come when it breaks, and you’ll be forced to decide whether to repair or replace it. If you choose the former, and it's made by Samsung, you might soon be treated to a smaller repair bill — not to mention a smaller impact on the environment — if the company follows through on plans to offer recycled components for hardware repairs.



Rumored specs surface for the Unihertz Titan Slim, a BlackBerry KEY2 look-alike

Rumored specs for the BlackBerry KEY2 look-a-like called the Unihertz Titan Slim have surfaced.

Hulu and Hulu with Live TV: Everything you need to know

Hulu is among the most versatile streaming services, thanks to its Live TV option and various add-ons. Here's everything you need to know about Hulu and Hulu with Live TV.

Best Google Pixel 6 Pro cases 2022

If you're looking for Google Pixel 6 Pro cases, we've rounded up the best of the best for the new phone. Check them out!

Spotify rebrands Greenroom as Live, so you can ignore it under a new name

Social audio app Clubhouse was so successful at first that it made some big guns nervous, and a bunch of established apps scrambled to rip it off introduce similar functionality: Twitter got its Spaces and we saw Live Audio Rooms come to Facebook. Since that early 2021 peak in popularity, however, social audio has lost some of its shine — and now we learn Spotify's own Clubhouse challenger, Greenroom, is going away.



NVIDIA Shield TV update fixes lingering bugs, adds a few enhancements

NVIDIA Shield TV devices are receiving a new update with a host of bug fixes. Shield Experience 9.0.2 is rolling out now.

Monday 11 April 2022

Google Meet borrows a Netflix feature to help avoid potentially awkward moments

Google Meet is introducing a new prompt for users alone on a call for an extended period of time.

Vivo's first foldable is here with an impressive spec sheet and a reasonable price tag

It feels like every smartphone company under the sun is coming out with a folding-screen model these days, and following a few teasers, Vivo has finally made its first foldable phone official in China: the Vivo X Fold.



Best fitness apps for Android 2022

Fitness is a challenge for many of us, and some people need more help than others to stay motivated. These apps offer some guidance and help along your journey. Check them out.

Pick up Zendure's SuperTank Pro battery and never hunt for an outlet again

If there's one component to our devices we all wish would get better, it's batteries. Sure, most smartphones these days last a lot longer than they did a decade ago, but no one will ever argue against more efficient gadgets. While we wait for battery technology to keep evolving, an external battery pack is the best choice for extending your phone's life while on the go. Zendure's SuperTank Pro is one of the best power banks you can find today, and it's a whopping $50 off on Amazon right now.



Best Google Pixel 4a 5G cases 2022

Google's Pixel 4a 5G offers everything, from a stock Android experience to great camera quality, at a price that won't burn a hole in your wallet. But affordable phones need love too, which is why we've rounded up some of the best Google Pixel 4a 5G cases you can get.

Sunday 10 April 2022

Google Assistant will now let you rename user-created Routines

Users have been able to create Google Assistant Routines in the past using the "When I say to my Assistant" trigger found under Starters. One downside to this was that in the name of using natural speech, labels could get unwieldy. As of Saturday, it looks like Google has made some changes to ease the process and make it more practical, allowing users to give Routines whatever names they like.



AT&T chief says the carrier may raise cell phone plan prices and cut some landlines

After spinning off its media empire, AT&T will focus on its core business by trimming costs and raising prices.

Best Samsung Galaxy A53 cases 2022

Get a load of these awesome Samsung Galaxy A53 cases. They're practical, good-looking, and affordable.

Pixel 6 user shares evidence that an update with Face Unlock could be coming soon

A Pixel 6 user setting up his new phone found a mention of Face Unlock when choosing a backup screen lock. This cold mean that a software update carrying the feature is coming soon.

Google Pixel At a Glance bug keeps removing weather from home screen widget

Home screen widgets are so ubiquitous for smartphone users we probably take for granted just how often we reflexively use them. Whether it's checking the news, stocks, or weather, it's the kind of convenient feature you may not think much about until it's gone. Recently some Pixel users have had to do just that, as not everyone is seeing their trusty home screen At a Glance weather forecast.



I met a breast implant dealer and a cowgirl in a Madrid taqueria and we did (not) take a photo

Are smartphone cameras robbing you from making memories? My Berlin - Madrid - Frankfurt trip with Pixel 6 Pro tries to answer what's likely a philosophical question. Click for the cows but stay for the philosophy!

Saturday 9 April 2022

UFC 273 live stream PPV: How to watch Volkanovski vs Korean Zombie online

Two titles are up for grabs with UFC 273, here's how you can watch all of the action live.

OnePlus' next budget flagship could be a spiritual successor to an OPPO phone

Specs and images of the unannounced OnePlus Ace leaked, sounds very familiar.

Octo Android malware wants to get its tentacles on your banking information

A fascinating thing about the life cycle of malware is how malicious code packages evolve over time. It's a case of threat actors grabbing something that works and then improving or extending it. One example is a breed of banking malware that first popped up in 2016 called Exobot — it went after users in several countries until 2018 when it morphed into ExobotCompact, a remote access trojan (RAT) with several additional subtypes. And recently, cybersecurity researchers discovered Octo, a new RAT that essentially evolved from Exobot but has even more deceptive features — like the one that lets the trojan hide its activities even as it turns your phone into a vehicle for committing fraud.



MVNO Google Fi cuts its pricing for unlimited data

Google's MVNO Google Fi has cut pricing on two of its unlimited data plans, Simply Unlimited and Unlimited Plus.

Which color Samsung Galaxy A53 should you buy?

The Samsung Galaxy A53 comes in four understated matte shades. If you're wondering which color Galaxy A53 should you buy, here's our two cents on the matter.

Here's how you can save up to $500 on Samsung's entire Galaxy S22 family (no trade-in)

New Google Fi customers with number port-ins are currently looking at spending just $300, $500, and $700 for a Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra respectively.

Friday 8 April 2022

How to clear your browsing data in Chrome

Need to hide your browsing data from the last hour? How about the last 24 hours? Fortunately, Chrome makes it easy to give you a clean slate.

Google releases a long-awaited fix for Chrome OS camera issues

Updating your device is supposed to make it better — right? It's pretty frustrating when operating system updates introduce new problems rather than fixing the ones that already exist, like we might have just seen when Google Assistant started speaking the wrong language with Android Auto. Now it's time for Chromebook users to share in the misery, as it looks like a Chrome OS update may have rendered some Chromebook cameras useless for the moment.



Best console ports for Android 2022

Not every game translates well to the mobile space, but every now and then a game will be ported to mobile that actually plays great and perhaps even adds something to the experience. We're bringing some of the best titles together under one roof of the best console ports you can play on Android devices!

Next-gen E Ink screens promise brighter, bolder colors for future e-readers

Low-power electronic paper displays are foundational to the e-book industry, and it’s no understatement to say that the Kindle wouldn’t exist as it does today without this technology. The E Ink Corporation is easily the biggest player in this space, and three years ago it announced its Kaleido screens that finally brought color to e-paper displays at a reasonable price. Color screens haven't risen to dominate the e-book market just yet, but E Ink has been pushing ahead with the technology and just announced its latest generation of Kaleido panels, with some decent-sounding upgrades



OnePlus 9 Pro review: The best OnePlus phone in 2022

The OnePlus 9 Pro continues to shine in 2022, making it a better recommendation over the more recent OnePlus 10 Pro.

Thursday 7 April 2022

How to set up emergency SOS features on Android

With the release of Android 12, enabling Emergency SOS features is easier than ever. Once it's set up, quickly tapping the power button 5 times in a row will call the emergency services or contact of your choosing. By default, this will be set to your local emergency number (e.g. 911 for the USA), but it can be changed to a personal contact if you'd prefer. You can also add medical information and other personal details to your phone, so medical professionals can access them if you're unable to communicate in an emergency.



Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Flip 4 are bringing back our favorite fingerprint scanner

The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4 will have fingerprint scanners, but they aren't the kind Samsung normally uses.

Samsung One UI 5 rumors tease Android 13's early arrival for Galaxy phones

Samsung has not only set the high mark with its software update commitments, but it also manages to get Android updates out to its devices faster than almost anyone else. While nobody's going to be dropping updates on day one with Pixel phones, the gap has reduced noticeably, especially compared to its TouchWiz days. Before Samsung delivers a significant new Android and One UI release, we tend to see a few months of testing, and for One UI 4 with Android 12 last year, Samsung started its beta program in September. The company reportedly intends to do even better this year, and could release the first Android 13-based One UI 5 beta by July.



Samsung launches flash Galaxy S22 and S22 Ultra deal with instant credits

Besides the $675 trade for your broken Note 20 Ultra or S21 Ultra and the exclusive colors, Samsung now tacks $100 off the price of the S22 Ultra.

Check out these concept renders and video of the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

While the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G has just been released, concept renders of the Galaxy A54 5G have been published.

Wednesday 6 April 2022

Qualcomm's upcoming 7-series chipset shows the gap between flagship and mid-range segments is ever shrinking

Whether you're grabbing the OnePlus 10 Pro or any of Samsung's Galaxy S22 series, it's easy to get your hands on a device powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset. It looks like we won't have to wait much longer to see the 7-series chips in action, as a new leak showcases exactly what to expect from its next mid-range processors.



New York vs LA vs Chicago & more: These are the fastest 5G cities in America

The fastest US 5G cities in H2 2021 might surprise you, although it's equally important what cities are striking the best balance between 5G speed and availability.

Walkabout Mini Golf VR brings Myst courses and puzzles this fall

Windows classic Myst will be getting its own golf courses in VR as an add-on for Walkabout Mini Golf later this fall.

Samsung hopes a tailor-made SoC will do for Galaxy what it did for iPhones

Samsung has been outfitting its international phones with Exynos chips for years now — often to the chagrin of customers who might prefer the superior performance of Snapdragon chips (like we get in the US). Despite Exynos misgivings among users, Samsung may be about to seriously recommit to its processors, with plans for what sound like the company going all out on Exynos for an upcoming phone.



Star Wars: Hunters for Android — Everything you need to know

Star Wars: Hunters is a team-based game pitting players against each other in The Arena. Here's everything you need to know about Star Wars: Hunters for Android.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 and S22 FE may use MediaTek chips for the first time

After S21 FE delays and disappointing Exynos performance with the S22, Samsung may decide to scale back its own chip efforts and rely on MediaTek for its international phones instead.

Tuesday 5 April 2022

Jiggle Physics 123: PlayStation Plus, Zelda, GDC 2022

This week on the Jiggle Physics gaming podcast, the gang forgets to talk about E3 getting canceled this year but gets to all the other stuff, don't worry.

Into the Dead 2: Unleashed lands on Netflix Games

Netflix might be asking its customers to fork over more cash each month — and, quite possibly, at the loss of password sharing — but at least it keeps trying to offer more bang for your buck. The company launched its mobile games platform on Android last year, adding more titles each month to its library. For March, Netflix is adding three new games to its lineup, with two of them available to play right now.



Best wireless headphones 2022

You could trip over how many Bluetooth headphones are out there now, but which ones are worth putting on your ears? We've got the best wireless headphones you can buy in 2021.

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold4 could score a much-needed camera upgrade

Foldable phones may well be what we all end up using in the future, and these days Samsung's currently leading the market with its Galaxy Z Fold and Flip lineup. But while these flagships definitely have some "wow" factor with their unique foldable designs, they don't always measure up to their Galaxy S counterparts in all aspects — and that includes the imaging department. Now a new rumor looks at one possible upgrade that could be coming to the Galaxy Z Fold4's camera package.



Google updates the Pixel dialer; new iteration matches the calendar and lock screen

Pixel users might notice a new Material You dialer on their handsets resembling the Google Calculator app and the Pixel Lock Screen.

Monday 4 April 2022

Wireless charging is cool and convenient, but it's not for everyone

We asked our readers if wireless charging is a must-have feature. More readers said yet, but plenty could live without or just didn't care.

OnePlus Nord Buds pass through FCC, suggesting a launch could be imminent

Following last month's leaked renders, the OnePlus Nord Buds have passed through the FCC. This means we could see new OnePlus earbuds any day now.

Time-traveling Google Pixel appears in The Dropout's latest episode

Hollywood is awash with stories of tech startups gone wrong right now. From WeWork to Uber, it seems like every streaming service is showcasing what goes wrong with inexperienced CEOs get access to billions of dollars. The Dropout seems to be the most successful of these shows, with Amanda Seyfried's performance as Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes garnering critical acclaim. It's a show that's pretty devoted to period-appropriate technology, but eagle-eyed viewers likely spotted a time-traveling Pixel phone in the latest episode.



Epic announces RealityScan, a 3D scanning app now in limited beta on iOS TestFlight

Epic announces a limited beta release in TestFlight for its new app called RealityScan. The app allows users to scan 3D images and manipulate them.

Alexa now lets you easily discover Amazon deals ahead of the others

Alexa now has a feature that notifies you when an item in your Amazon shopping cart or wish list is about to be discounted.

Roku announces deal to keep Amazon Prime streaming

Even with the best streaming boxes, today's media ecosystem is a patchwork of distribution deals and limited licensing, which occasionally leads to consumer frustration as services vanish without warning. We all remember the YouTube TV feuds of last year, and that's just the most recent example. Reports in late 2021 claimed that Roku could be set to lose access to Amazon's selection of video, but that is no longer a concern. Whew.



Sunday 3 April 2022

LG reveals the name of the phones that will get Android 12 this quarter

LG has revealed the names of the phones that will soon be updated to Android 12.

Google issues new warning to publishers who dismiss Russia-Ukraine war

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has dialed up Google's vigilance when it comes to monetizing controversial content. The company has received criticism in the past for allowing the monetization of hateful or violent content through its ad network. However, Google has been taking steps to address this issue. For example, at the end of March, the search giant made it clear that it would enforce already-existing rules it has about not running ads alongside victim-blaming content regarding Ukraine — and it just doubled down on the warning.



Android 13 feature could allow single eSIM to connect to two carriers at the same time

Google is reportedly adding a new feature to Android 13 that would allow an eSIM chip to support active connections to two carriers at the same time.

Razer Kraken headphones allegedly saved a Redditor from a stray bullet

In all the reviews we've published of Razer products, it has never once occurred to any Android Police editor to perform the ultimate penetration test and see how well they stand up to bullets. Not for lack of creativity, it just seems counterproductive to shoot your hardware. But earlier this week, a Redditor posted photos indicating that the Razer Kraken headphones were a real lifesaver for when someone got gun-happy in the neighborhood.



How to watch Peaky Blinders Season 6, Episode 6 online: stream the series finale from anywhere

Television's favorite criminal family is back for one final ride. Here's how you can watch Peaker Blinders online, no matter where you live.

Android Auto glitch has Google Assistant reading messages in the wrong language

Android Auto helps you stay focused, connected, and entertained. It lets you use Google Assistant so you can keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel and still play music, send text messages, make calls, and get directions. So if your in-car helper isn't speaking the same language as you are, things could get confusing. Some users are apparently encountering a bug in Google Assistant causing it to read messages in a language other than the one the user needs to hear.



Apple's list of "Must-Have Apps" leaves out some big names and this could be why

Apple's list of "Must-Have apps" does not include Facebook, Instagram, and Whats App" and it could be all about privacy-or lack of it.

Saturday 2 April 2022

Stadia and GeForce Now are coming to Samsung smart TVs later than expected

Samsung has postponed its planned summer launch of the Gaming Hub, which means Google Stadia and Nvidia GeForce Now will not be available on its 2022 smart TV lineup until later this year.

Blockbuster report claims Facebook paid to have TikTok attacked as "dangerous" in the media

A blockbuster story in The Washington Post says that a politically connected consulting firm was hired by Facebook to make TikTok look bad to the public.

WhatsApp gets around to launching new camera interface in Android beta version

WhatsApp has been busy tweaking features and functions, with new options for messaging and a limited test of sharing files as large as 2 GB. With 5 billion Play Store downloads, it's easily the most popular messaging app in the world, meaning it's on every kind of phone. Yet updates to WhatsApp features don't always roll out to everyone at once — there are, after all, 2 billion monthly active users — so a new camera interface that iOS devices have had for months is just now going out to Android users.



How to watch Wrestlemania 38 online: a live stream guide

WWE is calling it the "biggest Wrestlemania match of all time", and we have everything you need to know to stream it live from anywhere on Earth.

Firefox extension developed with George Lucas's ILM ensures colors are consistent across devices

Say you find the perfect shade of blue for your website while using your laptop, and then you see it on a new device like a tablet, and it's completely different. That's because browser color profiles can change across devices, which can make colors sometimes look very different. Usually, browsers are leveraging operating system color management to display colors and pictures with an optimal, but generalized user experience in mind. There's a new Firefox extension that can help you ensure colors remain true to a creator's vision anytime you see them in a browser.



Analyst sees no major impact to Apple's stock if it is forced to make changes to App Store policies

JP Morgan stock market analyst Samik Chatterjee sees no lasting impact to Apple's shares if the company needs to make changes to App Store policies.

Friday 1 April 2022

New feature surfaces on Pixel's At a Glance widget

Google is rolling out an update that will allow Pixel's At a Glance widget to show Bluetooth-connected devices in use and the remaining battery life.

Best Samsung Galaxy S22 screen protectors 2022

Keep your baby Galaxy S22 nice and safe by slapping some of the best screen protectors on its display. Trust me, you don't want to risk cracking that mesmerizing Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel.

The OnePlus 10 Pro is getting its very first OTA update

After a China-exclusive launch in January, the OnePlus 10 Pro is finally a reality in the rest of the world. We already have our hands on one, and it's worth reading our very spicy review for yourselves before you buy it. The software, in particular, is the subject of division, but users buying it can expect the same support schedule as with previous OnePlus smartphones — three years of major platform updates and four years of security updates. To kick things off, the company is rolling out its first patch, even while most phone owners don't have the device yet.



Best Chromebox 2022

Chromeboxes are great for basic tasks or daily work, and while there are different options to choose from. For one, you'll likely want to find a Chromebox that allows you to upgrade the hardware later, and for that, the ASUS Chromebox 4 is perfect.

How to delete your recent Google search history on Android

Learn this quick and easy way to delete your recent Google search history on Android. All it takes is a few taps on your phone!

Nothing phone (1): Everything we know so far

Former OnePlus head Carl Pei has announced a Snapdragon-powered Android phone with a similar design to the Nothing Ear (1) buds. Here's what has been publicly announced (or leaked) thus far

Wyze apparently hid a major flaw in its security cameras for three years

Wyze knew for years that hackers could remotely access its security cameras, but didn't tell customers about it.