Monday 31 October 2022

PlayStation VR games releasing in November 2022 and beyond

PlayStation VR has a solid lineup of games, with more added every so often. We've put together a list of everything releasing this month and beyond.

Random Instagram account suspensions are ruining everyone's Halloween

While the internet's attention for social media-fueled drama is squarely focused on Elon Musk's takeover of Twitter, users of a separate online feed are running into surprise suspensions. If you tried to check your Instagram feed this morning — presumably looking for all sorts of ridiculous and creative costumes — only to find your account has been locked down, you aren't alone. Users across the app are getting hit with unexpected bans.



Halloween sales 2022: some scary-good deals are here

Don't want to wait for Thanksgiving or Black Friday sales? We've got you covered with some amazing deals just in time for Halloween!

How to use spoiler styling in Telegram for Android

It's downright impossible to steer clear of pop culture spoilers when they are practically everywhere on the internet and, sometimes, in your chat box. While you can avoid reading an online review until you've watched the last episode of House of the Dragon, how will you stop that diehard MCU fan in your chat group from spoiling the movie you've been eagerly waiting for?



Scoring luxury earbuds for this cheap got to be one of the best feelings in the world

Luxury company Master & Dynamic's stylish and comfortable MW07 buds with stellar audio are $32.99 instead of $199.99 for a limited time.

Instagram outage resulted in random suspensions, reduced follower counts

Instagram suffered an outage on Monday, resulting in many users being locked out of their accounts.

Sunday 30 October 2022

Google reportedly spends $100 million on avatars to take on TikTok

Google may be ailing in ad revenue right now and pushing harder on hardware, but it's also seemingly not against spending nine digits to buy an AI-powered imaging company focused on making avatars. That's reportedly what's just happened, according to a source familiar with the matter.



5 Google Pixel 6a settings you'll want to change immediately

Even though there is less in the box these days, getting a new phone is still an exciting experience. When the phone arrives, you open the box, peel off the wrapper, and power it on for the first time. After logging in to the phone and setting everything up, you can change the settings and preferences to make the phone your own. And when you have a Google Pixel 6a, one of the best budget Android phones, your experience improves even more when you turn on a few hidden features during the setup.



Want to turn you or your kid into an iPhone for Halloween?

Don't be surprised to find iPhones, Android handsets, the Android Bugdroid, and the poop emoji wandering around your neighborhood tomorrow for Halloween.

Twitter is reportedly facing massive layoffs as Elon Musk takes the reins

Elon Musk is said to have ordered Twitter employees to be laid off in order to avoid paying out stock grants to outgoing workers.

Pushbullet says it has to fight Play Store's automated oversight to stay on Android

As Android™'s official app store, you would think the Play Store would be the premier resource for the best Android apps. While there are numerous third-party app hubs that serve as an alternative to the Play Store, most Android app developers prioritize Google’s offering given the sheer size of the audience. But with volume in mind, it's no secret that the company has had to rely on artificial intelligence to make some judgment calls on approving and pruning apps. But as we've seen before, there are downsides to this reliance on AI and machine learning models to keep tabs on guideline violations. The latest victim of said downsides, Pushbullet, is putting out its story.



New Samsung update makes Galaxy S22 work more like iPhone 14; Android, Apple users argue over it

Many Samsung phones like the Galaxy S22 and Z Fold and Flip series, as well as the upcoming S23 will work and feel more like an iPhone 14! Is Samsung copying iOS 16 software features?

Saturday 29 October 2022

Update to Pebble Watch adds support for 64-bit only Android phones like the Pixel 7 line

The Pebble Watch will now work with 64-bit only Android phones like the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro following an update to version 4.4.3.

This new app that dynamically changes your wallpaper is free to download and use

We're generally fans of apps around here at Android Police, but when it comes to the ones that are simple, beautiful, and free, well, we like those ones more. Take, for instance, Dynamic Wallpaper — the newest app from designer Rushikesh Kamewar.



Samsung's US Galaxy S22 Android 13 rollout expands from Verizon to T-Mobile

Hot on Verizon's heels, T-Mobile is reportedly bringing stable Android 13 goodies with One UI 5 tweaks on top to Samsung's Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra.

New Google Phone logo starts appearing on home screens

Much ado has been made about Google's new visual branding for its Contacts, Messages, and Phone apps which the company introduced in the past couple weeks.They're not the best works of art, but they do convey just enough to stand for something. Up until now, though, you've probably seen the new Messages logo and maybe even the Contacts logo appear on your home screen. What's up with Phone? And what's this about how the Messages logo animates?



Delete these five apps now from your Android phone before your bank account is threatened

If you have any of these five apps installed on your Android phone, uninstall them immediately since they are malware droppers aiming to steal your banking info.

Photo Unblur on the Pixel 7-series: How well does the new feature work?

Is Pixel Unblur a game-changing new feature or merely a fairly decent tool in the Pixel's skillset?

Pebble gets a new lease on life with Google Pixel 7 support

Google has added 64-bit support to the Pebble app, reviving the ten-year-old smartwatch brand with support for the Pixel 7 series.

Friday 28 October 2022

Google Messages seems one step closer to bringing end-to-end encryption to group chats

Google Messages appears to have begun testing end-to-end encryption for group chats. This new feature has been talked about coming around as an open beta later this year and would finally ensure that members in a group chat can speak with each other securely without prying eyes.

Three Apple Watch SE 2 versions score unprecedented and unexpected new discounts

Normally priced at an already very reasonable $249 and up, the recently released Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is significantly cheaper than usual in three 44mm models.

Best S22 Ultra cases 2022

The Galaxy S22 Ultra will get software updates for a total of four years, but the only way the phone itself will last that long is if you protect it. Bring on the functionality and flair with these Galaxy S22 Ultra cases.

Telegram briefly flirts with pay-to-view posts

Messaging services like WhatsApp and Telegram aren't just always trying to grow their user bases with new features, but find new ways to monetize those users through paid services. Telegram has offered a Premium subscription since June, allowing users to follow more channels, download files faster, and access additional features. Now the service has been spotted with individual messages and media locked behind a paywall.



Best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 wireless chargers 2022

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a unique phone that benefits from wireless chargers with a little more flexibility. So we've gathered the best ones you can pair with your new Galaxy Z Fold 3.

Thursday 27 October 2022

Google fixes Assistant hotword issues plaguing the Pixel Buds Pro

The Google Pixel Buds Pro are the company’s third attempt at designing true-wireless earbuds, and a solid effort, at that. Unfortunately, it looks like some Pixel Buds Pro owners have recently had trouble activating Google Assistant using the “Hey, Google” hotword. The good news is that Google has now rectified the underlying issue with Voice Match and the Assistant language settings, so voice activation should work as intended with the Pixel Buds Pro.



Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 chargers 2022

Not all chargers are created equal, which is why you need one of these compatible Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 charger to tap into its highest charging speed.

The Pixel 7 series helps Google set a new record for the Pixel brand

Google CEO Sundar Pichai told Wall Street analysts yesterday that the company recently had the highest-selling week in Pixel history.

Best Samsung Galaxy A53 screen protectors 2022

We know you love your phone, but sometimes, accidents happen. Keep your Samsung Galaxy A53 looking like new with these screen protectors.

Google now lets you poke the Digital Wellbeing widget when it's being unresponsive

Widgets are a great way to access critical functions of an app right from your home screen. Options like Google’s At a Glance widget let you glean important information like weather, your next meeting, and AQI alerts conveniently. Almost all these widgets update automatically in the background without being asked, so you get current information at all times — at least, they're supposed to. But now we're seeing Google’s Digital Wellbeing widget introduce a refresh button for when it needs a little reminder to keep things current.



Snapchat introduces Director Mode, a unique array of tools to help creators stand out

Snap has announced the global Android and iOS launch of Director Mode for Snapchat. This new feature brings in tools for creators to finely tune their snaps to ensure they stand out in the most creative way possible.

Wednesday 26 October 2022

Samsung wants to give you a Galaxy Z Flip 4 for as little as $100

It's been a big week for Samsung sales, as we've already seen big discounts on their Galaxy Watch 5, Galaxy Tabs, and the Galaxy Z Fold 4. We're keeping things rolling today with a great deal on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4, Samsung's other flagship foldable. It has a clamshell design, high-end performance, and right now you can pick one up for as little as $310.



What types of information can the Echo Dot with Clock (2022) display?

Amazon's Echo Dot with Clock has been a winner since it first arrived, but the 2022 5th generation model got an upgraded LED display and now shows more info than just the time.

Silicon Valley quake shows off Android Earthquake Alert System in action

Several countries prone to earthquakes have an effective national early warning system that lets their citizens take action seconds, perhaps even minutes before ground-level shaking begins. That's great for those countries, but most of the world — including most of the United States — does not have the systems in place to facilitate such advanced warnings. Google, though, has been working on spreading its Android Earthquake Alert System, which provides a literal surface-level warning to device owners in quake zones, across the world. Yesterday, the United States got to see it in action.



For security reasons, iPhone users should install iOS 16.1 ASAP

Apple has released a security advisory listing the vulnerabilities that are patched with the iOS 16.1 update released this past Monday.

The Galaxy S22 reaches for the stars with its latest night photography feature

Samsung has revealed new photography features for the Expert RAW app on the Galaxy S22. This includes Astrophoto for taking images of the stars.

How to set up Voice Message Transcription on the Pixel 7 and other Android phones

Google launched Voice Message Transcription for the Pixel 7 series and select Android flagships. This how-to explains how to use the feature.

Tuesday 25 October 2022

The unlocked 256GB OnePlus 9 Pro is on sale at a new all-time low price

Originally priced as high as $1,070, last year's still-impressive OnePlus 9 Pro is currently available for just 500 bucks from Amazon and Best Buy in a completely unlocked 256GB storage variant.

The Motorola Razr 2022 finally debuts in Europe, but one big question still remains

The new Motorola Razr 2022 has finally launched in Europe and the U.K., priced similarly to the Galaxy Z Flip 4.

Here's when your Samsung Galaxy phone will get One UI 5

We all know the 5 'W's' (and 1 'H') of questionhood, but when it comes to getting Android 13 on our Samsung Galaxy devices, the word we've been missing out on was "when?" Many European Galaxy S22, Flip, and Fold 4 devices began getting One UI 5 this week, but, as you might've noticed, the whole world isn't Europe. We're getting a slightly better idea now as the company's just dropped a detailed device schedule. Just don't get too excited yet.



Mystery Pixel G10 handset surfaces

A mystery Google Pixel model codenamed the G10 has surfaced and the model has similar specs to the Pixel 7 Pro ruling out a foldable or mini Pixel.

Samsung launches Matter functionality with SmartThings for connected living

Samsung announces its updating the SmartThings Android app to support Matter functionality. This also brings in the Multi-Admin feature which allows users to control their Matter-certified devices across platforms and apps.

Arris Surfboard Thruster Wi-Fi 6E W6B review: Can we finally get rid of Ethernet?

The Arris Surfboard Thruster Wi-Fi 6E kit gives your gaming PC or console a leg up with the fastest Wi-Fi tech available today. Without even opening your system, you can get Ethernet-like performance across the house without crawling under the floorboards.

This Verizon deal could hook you up with a FREE Google Pixel 6a

Verizon is currently offering a deal that'll give you a free Google Pixel 6a when you sign up for an eligible Unlimited plan.

Monday 24 October 2022

Stable One UI 5 (Android 13) is now rolling out to the Galaxy S22

Samsung is finally rolling out the stable build of One UI 5. This OS, built off Android 13, is aimed at providing users with a fully customizable and secure experience while using several Samsung devices in a connected environment.

How to take photos from your Google Pixel phone with your Pixel Watch

Whether taking a group photo that you want to be in or one of yourself in the perfect setting, using your Pixel Watch to snag a pic using your Pixel Phone is a snap.

Best Anker power banks 2022

Nothing is worse than leaving the house for the day and forgetting to bring a charger to keep your phone or computer charged. Pick up one of these excellent Anker power banks and never worry about it again.

Visible vs. Metro by T-Mobile: Which is better for you?

Verizon's Visible and Metro by T-Mobile use two of the nation's biggest networks to deliver great coverage at an even greater price. Not only do these prepaid plans come with 5G access, but they also offer unlimited data, calling, and texting. The right one for you depends on your data needs and whether you want one single plan or some flexibility.

You have less than a week to claim five free months of HBO Max

Over the last few months, HBO Max has been offering a deal that'll give you 40% off if you prepay for a year of streaming, but you only have until October 30th to sign up.

Gmail is getting some powerful merge fields with the help of simple tags

As Android Police's newsletter editor (go subscribe if you haven't already!), I've come to know the power of merge fields first-hand. If you don't know what they are, they're extremely useful in sending mass emails where, if you've collected the data from people, you can slot them into specific places as needed. It's how organizational senders are about to personalize their greetings to each recipient. Well, Google is giving its Workspace customers the power of something it's called merge tags in Gmail.



Samsung releases stable Android 13/One UI 5.0 for Galaxy S22 line in certain countries

Samsung has started rolling out the stable version of Android 13/One UI 5.0 to the Galaxy S22 line in parts of Europe and Asia.

Google's Nest Audio smart speaker is on sale at its lowest price ever

Black Friday has come early this year for fans of Google's smart speakers, with the "regular" Nest Audio fetching just 50 bucks at multiple major US retailers right now.

Stop wasting time and get Google's Pixel 6a mid-ranger at its Black Friday price right now

Multiple major US retailers are currently selling Google's very well-reviewed Pixel 6a for $299 instead of $449, and at least according to Best Buy, this is the handset's Black Friday 2022 price.

Sunday 23 October 2022

Specs revealed for the phone created by the crew that designed the Essential Phone

Specs for the Solana Labs Saga have been posted on Twitter by the company that designed the handset, once known as the OV1.

Specs are revealed for the flagship spec'd Saga phone

Specs for the Solana Labs Saga have been posted on Twitter by the company that designed the handset, once known as the OV1.

Google deals bring Pixel 6a to record low, Nest Audio to half price

Whether you're picking up one of the best budget Android phones out there or are looking to improve how you hear what you like to hear, Google's got it and it's got it cheap: the Pixel 6a, Pixel Buds Pro, and Nest Audio are all on sale this weekend with one of our most wanted smartphones of 2022 touching a record low price.



TSMC suspends production of powerful GPU chip for Chinese tech firm

TSMC halts work on manufacturing GPU chips for a Chinese start-up company named Biren Technology as the U.S. restricts Nvidia from selling A100 chip in China.

How to turn off Face Unlock on the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro

Not sold on the new Face Unlock feature of the Google Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro? Well, we have the steps to disable it.

Processor hint lends credence to Chromecast Audio revival rumors

2023 is shaping up to be another interesting year in Google hardware already and it's not just because we've been covering boatloads of rumors about the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. The amount of investment the company is supposedly tilting into its hardware division is expected to bring about a gradual, but major expansion in the Pixel ecosystem. Still, there's always an opening to present an upgrade opportunity for repeat customers (which can reinforce purchase decisions for new buyers) and that's where great smart speakers come into play: specifically, we're hearing about at least one new Nest speaker in development.



Saturday 22 October 2022

Verizon's shares hit 10-year low on Friday following release of Q3 results

Verizon's stock dropped to its lowest price in 10 years on Friday after the company reported its Q3 earnings.

Starting this coming Tuesday, you can expect to see more ads in the Apple App Store

Starting this coming Tuesday, October 25th, Apple will be showing ads in the App Store's Today tab and in the "You Might Also Like" section of individual app listings.

Galaxy S23 Ultra benchmark results hint at tremendous performance uplift

Galaxy S23 Ultra's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip can lead to a 40% performance boost.

Google says that what Pixel Watch users think is burn-in on the display is something else.

Some Google Pixel Watch owners have been complaining about spotting screen burn-in on the always-on display. Google says it is something else.

Samsung drip feeds stable One UI 5 update to at least one lucky user

It's been two months and one week since Android 13 went stable and all this time, we've been wondering when our phones — that is, not the Pixels, thank you very much — would get the update. Well, if you own a late model Samsung device, the one-word answer at this point is "days."



Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights: Never put up Christmas lights again

Govee RGBIC permanent outdoor lights look to solve a very real annoyance in suburbia: holiday lights. These are meant to be kept up all year and never require setting up more than once.

The Pixel Tablet is set to pick up a handy shortcut courtesy of Samsung

With Android 13 QPR1 Beta 3 reaching eligible Pixel devices this week — including the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro — we're still in the early stages of uncovering what's new with the release. While Google's most recent flagship smartphones are getting an early taste of features like Clear Calling, it seems like there is at least one new feature designed with tablet users in mind. The feature comes in the lead-up to the launch of the Pixel Tablet.



Android's iPhone? Next joke! Issues when switching to Pixel 7 make me rethink Google's promises

Data transfer glitches, mediocre video quality, unreliable Face Unlock, and relatively poor RAM management. My frustrating experience of switching to Pixel 7 from the Pixel 6 and iPhone 14 Pro.

Friday 21 October 2022

The metaverse is spreading to WhatsApp, with the release of avatars looming

WhatsApp continually adds new features, like we just saw with it getting the ability to create and share links to WhatsApp video and voice calls. Since it's owned by Meta, though, sometimes those new additions feel more in service of its parent's goals than anything — and right now, that means all things metaverse. We first learned about WhatsApp’s plans to implement Facebook’s Bitmoji-style avatars earlier this year, and now they're finally starting to arrive for some beta testers.



iPhone 14 Pro catches the Google virus! Multiple bugs hit iOS 16, users complain (Apple responds)

Not only Pixel! iPhone 14 Pro also full of bugs as users take it on Twitter to complain. Apple responds with a timely update but iOS 16 bugs keep piling on. What's going on?

Google sued for allegedly violating Texas privacy law over biometric data collection

Google receives a lawsuit from the Attorney General of Texas, Ken Paxton. The lawsuit is over a violation of Texas privacy law over the collection of biometric data without the consent of its people.

The best Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 deals of October 2022

The Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro have landed, and we've got all of the best deals collected here.

Amazon's getting ready for the Pixel 7a way too early

Google launched the Pixel 6a a whole nine months after the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, pretty much just like we'd expect it to. Well, it's barely been a few days now since we got to meet the Google Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, and yet we're already talking about the upcoming Pixel 7a, thanks to some very premature action happening over on Amazon.



Delete these weirdly popular 'utility' apps from your Android phone if you care about your battery

These 16 malicious Android apps can drain your phone's battery and abuse your mobile data without your permission, which is why they should be deleted as soon as possible.

The best Verizon deals on phones and plans: October 2022

Whether you're trading in an old device or adding a new line, you can save loads of money with the Verizon phone deals found in this guide.

Thursday 20 October 2022

Elder Scrolls Online Stadia players get free PC copy with account transfer

The Elder Scrolls Online players on Stadia will be able to continue their progress with no additional purchases on PC.

YouTube Premium subscribers just got a massive surprise price hike

These days, YouTube's usually in the news for all the wrong reasons. The company's been experimenting with new ways to make some extra cash from free users, whether it's loading up to eleven unskippable ads before a single video or locking 4K playback behind a paywall. In both of those cases, those experiments have ended, potentially saving anyone unwilling to cough up $12 a month from a worse experience. Unfortunately, paying users in the US and Canada aren't so lucky, as a massive price hike for family plans is now in effect.



Apple could launch its first OLED iPads in 2024

The next generation of the iPad Pro could feature an OLED display.

Best cheap Android tablet 2022

The Android tablet market is somewhat barren for "flagship" tablets, but the budget and the mid-range market are full of great options. Whether you want a tablet for media consumption, or one with some extra "smarts," there's something for everyone. These are our favorite cheap Android tablets.

Netflix to crack down on password sharing in 2023 with 'sub-accounts'

Netflix reported on its Q3 2022 financial earnings. The company beat certain expectations in terms of subscribers while also incorporating new ways globally in 2023 to crack down on password sharing with "sub-accounts."

How to control Google Home from Pixel Watch

Google has added another way to control your smart home devices with the Pixel Watch. Here's how you can manage it all from your wrist.

Best Pixel Watch bands for workouts

The Google Pixel Watch is a versatile smartwatch that is good for everyday wear, and workouts thanks to Fitbit integration.

Take $100 off an Eero 6+ mesh router 3-pack with this Prime-exclusive deal

Mesh Wi-Fi systems are all the rage these days. Unlike standard black box routers, which have a single access point, a mesh system combines two or more access points to create a bigger, stronger Wi-Fi network that can cover larger areas with fewer dead spots. This means you can do things like play games and stream movies from anywhere in the house, without fear of losing connection. Amazon claims its Eero 6+ mesh system can cover up to 4,500 square feet with fast and reliable gigabit speeds, and right now, you can get it for $190.



Wednesday 19 October 2022

Android 13 (Go edition) brings Material You, Discover feed, and streamlined updates

Google has introduced its Android 13 (Go edition) software update for entry-level Android phones. This new update will launch in 2023 and bring Material You and the ability to receive critical updates faster as it saves on internal space.

Samsung Galaxy S23: Everything we know so far

Although the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 make for some of the best Android phones you can buy, plenty of users still prefer to stick with a classic smartphone design. For anyone who would rather stay away from the cutting edge, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is likely the phone for you. This year's Samsung Galaxy S22 series blew us away with an excellent refined design, solid performance, and the rebirth of the Note series.



Google Pixel 7 vs. Samsung Galaxy S22: Where value matters

In this comparison, we pit the Galaxy S22 against the new Pixel 7 to help you decide which one may be worth a dip into your wallet.

Come 2023, Netflix account sharing will cost you money

Darkness is falling, winter is coming, and it just feels like bad news all around for anyone who shares Netflix passwords. For months now, the company has been making a very public show of work towards helping people ditch password sharing and hopefully set up their own accounts. Netflix even just introduced a new tool to migrate your profile to a new account, helping to smooth over that transition. Now we're starting to get a better picture of how this will all go down, as the service shares new details about sub-accounts in its latest earnings call.



Best cheap Chromebook deals and prices of October 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.

How to use Google Maps on Pixel Watch

There's an all-new Google Maps available for Wear OS 3 smartwatches, including the Pixel Watch. And it couldn't be easier to use, so you can see where your next turn is right from your wrist.

Tuesday 18 October 2022

Chrome gives tablets some long-overdue attention ahead of next year's Pixel Tablet launch

Google has been anything but shy about its growing affinity for tablets, from Android 12L, to all the apps we've seen getting updates this summer in order to optimize them for larger screens. With plans to introduce the Pixel Tablet sometime next year, laying all this software groundwork makes perfect sense. In its latest effort to bring tablets the love they haven't been getting, Google is sharing the changes coming to Chrome to improve its look and functionality on Android's largest screens.



Chromecast with Google TV (4K) gets Android 12 update with new privacy, playback features

The Chromecast with Google TV 4K might have just got better with the new update rollout.

Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 deals of October 2022

Who says you need to pay for perfection? With these Galaxy Z Flip 4 deals, your dream foldable is just a mouse click away.

Mint Mobile is taking $400 off your new Pixel 7 Pro and throwing in six months of 5G service, too

Carrier deals have been among the best Pixel 7 Pro deals so far, and while the big three have been rolling out their usual charms, Mint Mobile is getting in on the fun, too. If you buy the Google Pixel 7 Pro and 12 months of service, Mint Mobile will knock $400 off the phone and pay for 6 months of your service plan, for any plan from the 4GB plan all the way up to the Unlimited Plan. That gets you a year of Unlimited 4G/5G service for the price of the 4GB plan all while getting the 7 Pro for almost 50% off.



Official Apple video reveals the redesigned iPad and the new iPad Pro tablets

Apple didn't hold a new product event but it did release a video introducing the redesigned tenth-generation iPad and the new iPad Pro models.

Chrome gets updated for easier multitasking on Android tablets

Google Chrome for Android tablets plans to make navigating tabs more effortless with new updates and features.

Monday 17 October 2022

Discord finally launches YouTube 'Watch Together,' cheaper Nitro Basic plan

Discord launches Activities featuring YouTube "watch together" and casual games like Putt Party. This new update will be for desktop users of Discord as its Activities rolls out this week and a new lower-priced subscription tier coming in the weeks ahead.

Best Sonos speakers 2022

Sonos makes some of the best speakers on the market, and the more Sonos speakers you have, the better the experience. So we gathered all the best Sonos speakers we’re especially fond of here at Android Central.

Best Oculus Quest 2 prices and deals: October 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.

Pixel 6 series receives some shiny Topaz from Paranoid Android

Paranoid Android is kicking into high gear its Android 13 push with heaps of devices getting into pre-release builds of what it calls Topaz. The dev team fired the starting pistol over the weekend with an alpha for the Nothing Phone 1. But since then, it's been betas all the way for several OnePlus and Pixel phones.



YouTube picks up a couple widgets on iOS, beating Android to the punch

Widgets are a fun, underrated way to interact apps that are awesome enough to implement them — apps like YouTube Music. But sadly, we haven't seen the came kind of love for the regular YouTube app. Hopefully Google will get around to doing something about that soon, as Android users are about to start getting very jealous of the new YouTube widgets arriving for iPhones.



Excellent 'flash sale' makes the affordable OnePlus Nord N200 5G even cheaper than usual

The 5G-enabled OnePlus Nord N200 mid-ranger is on sale at a substantial discount in an unlocked US variant for a limited time.

Sunday 16 October 2022

The FCC is snuffing out Huawei and ZTE's American comeback hopes

In June of 2020, the United States officially declared Chinese telecom firms Huawei and ZTE as national security threats because of the amount of data they handle and their close proximity to the Chinese government. In the time since, American wireless carriers have been busy using public funds appropriated by Congress to "rip and replace" Huawei and ZTE equipment from their respective grids. Then, just last week, FCC chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel sent out a proposal to ban approvals for telecommunications equipment made by companies deemed to be a national security risk, including Huawei and ZTE. The proposal was also sent to the three FCC commissioners and it now seems like a complete ban on equipment approvals is imminent.



TSMC delays production of 3nm chips as Samsung Foundry takes process leadership

A report says that TSMC's mass production of 3nm chips has been delayed from September to an unknown date this quarter.

T-Mobile commits to Android 13 updates on these phones

Android 13 has been out for a couple of months now. The latest major version of Android is currently available for Pixel devices, but people with other phones are wondering when, or if, the update will land on their devices. Well, if you subscribe to T-Mobile for cell service, you'll be glad to know the carrier has just published a list detailing which of its phones are getting Android 13 — so if you haven't heard a lot from your phone's manufacturer, your carrier is at least coming through for you.



Android 13 comes early for adventurous Nothing Phone (1) owners

The Nothing Phone (1) is an unconventional phone in more ways than one. Its design is an instant conversation starter — whether it was the semi-transparent back panel or the relatively stock Android user interface, it certainly made some buzz when it first hit our radars. Less spectacular is the software support as the Android 13 update won't arrive for the device until the first half of 2023. Thankfully, there are other ways to get Google's latest software release running on the device and that's through Paranoid Android.



Google Meet can now auto-frame you when you can't frame yourself

Google is committed to adding features to Meet as it slowly merges the platform with its one-on-one video calling app, Google Duo. After all, it's one of the most widely used videoconferencing apps out there both for work and school purposes. For one, Meet has given multiple co-hosts new features to make calls easier. Now, it wants to keep you center-stage at all times with a new auto-framing feature for calls in order to make you more visible to other attendants.



What's up dock? Some Pixel 7 series users are having issues with the Pixel Stand

Some Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro users are having problems using their devices with the Pixel Stand (both generations) and Google may need to push out a fix.

Saturday 15 October 2022

The still-excellent Galaxy Buds 2 with ANC have never been this cheap

The Galaxy Buds 2 offer decent active noise canceling, a comfortable design, and fast charging, and are currently retailing for under $100.

Report: Apple will shortly unveil the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2022) premium tablets

Very soon we could see Apple introduce the new 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2022) tablets with a low-key introduction.

Waze wants to zombify your in-car navigation experience this Halloween

Halloween is nearing and everyone seems to be ready to spook or get spooked. Besides the usual Google Doodle for the occasion, a good number of apps run weeks-long special events to mark the occasion. And speaking of Google, Waze is one such app. It's apparently been bitten by the spirit of the season, zombifying its navigation experience to give you company while trick-or-treating.



Buy a Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro from Visible, port over your number, and you'll receive some goodies

Digital pre-paid carrier Visible, a unit of Verizon, has a deal on the recently released Pixel 7 family that includes free Pixel Buds and a $200 gift card.

Pixel Fold spec leak narrows down size and shape of folding display

Never mind Samsung or Motorola or the Chinese crowd; Google is running its own race when it comes to foldable phones. Intelligence has been pointing to a long autumn and winter of waiting with the company targeting a late Q1 2023 launch window for a prospective Pixel Fold. We're now learning more about exactly what we're waiting for with details of the displays the phone will use.



Razer Hammerhead HyperSpeed gaming earbuds strike with performance and clarity

RazerCon 2022 brought about the reveal of the new Hammerhead HyperSpeed wireless buds, Kitty V2 Pro, and a new Kaira series lineup. The Hammerhead HyperSpeed earbuds boast performance and low latency to help ensure your sound remains clear while you game or take a call.

Friday 14 October 2022

Best Android phones under $300 in 2022

Sometimes you just want a phone that does the job and doesn't cost too much. These days, it's easy to get that and more with an awesome Android phone on a tight budget.

Tame your Google Photos collection with these tips and tricks

Google Photos is, hands down, the best photo management app on Android. And while unlimited storage is a thing of the past, it's still one of the best deals in town. If you're willing to live with slightly-compressed pics, Google is happy to give you up to 15GB of storage for free. And if you've been using the platform for years, none of your High quality or Express quality images saved to the platform before June 1, 2021, count toward your allotment.



Android 13 beta update brings back useful battery stats

If you hated the Android 12's battery stats feature, you might be delighted to see what the Android 13 update brings to the table.

Nothing lists all of the improvements it has made to the rear camera system of its first phone

Nothing has sent out an email explaining how it has improved the rear camera system on the Nothing Phone (1).

Leaked display specs suggest Google's Pixel Fold could be a lot like the Galaxy Z Fold 4

Google's highly anticipated and oft-delayed Pixel Fold could be released at some point next year with two Samsung-made displays, including one very similar to that of the Galaxy Z Fold 4.

Apple rumored to be working on an iMessage design revamp

A leak claims that the update will add "chat rooms, video clips, and new chat features in AR".

Thursday 13 October 2022

Best Google Pixel 6 deals and Google Pixel 6 Pro deals: October 2022

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.

Company created by Dish Network Chairman Ergen seeks to buy Boost Mobile

A company owned by Dish Network co-founder and Chairman Charles Ergen is reportedly in talks with Dish to buy Boost Mobile.

The new Netflix ad-supported plan revealed, begins in early November

Netflix reveals the details behind its new "Basic with Ads" tier. The new plan will cost $6.99 per month with 15 to 30-second ads at the beginning and during streamed content.

Look sharp with Spigen's sleek Made for Google collection for the Pixel 7 & 7 Pro

The Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro have just landed and they look exactly like something we want to have in our pocket right about now. The one thing we always stress about when we get a new phone is making sure to protect it from all the inevitable falls it will have to go through. Spigen came prepared for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro release and delivers a cool range of protective cases, as well as the MagFit range of accessories.



Motorola Edge 30 Ultra Review: Beauty and a beast

Motorola released a true flagship-grade smartphone for the masses. The Edge 30 Ultra is the brand’s latest high-end addition, and it packs top-notch specs for not that high of a price.

Samsung Wallet is coming to 13 new countries

Samsung Pay's replacement service is expanding to new regions later this year.

Wednesday 12 October 2022

The best 15 smart home deals from Prime Early Access are still alive

It doesn't have to be intimidating or expensive to break into the field of smart home devices. In fact, the entire industry has gone to lengths to make the processing of setting up your smart devices as easy as possible. Most devices support one of the three main voice assistants, and a great deal offers compatibility with third-party programming methods, including IFTTT applets. And for the rest of the day, Amazon's Prime Early Access Sale ensures you don't have to make a huge investment to get some of the best smart devices on the market.



Google Clock update preps app for Pixel Tablet and also adds cool new scheduling feature

Google has started prepping some of its apps for the Pixel Tablet including the Clock app which also has a neat new feature that allows you to be more precise when scheduling alarms.

Google’s wireless Pixel Buds A-Series sound great, look cute (in Dark Olive), and are 33% off

Google’s Pixel Buds are comfortable to wear for most people, have high-quality audio, and make Google Assistant even more useful with an always-on feature. Each bud is rated for five hours of battery life, with the charging case adding 19 hours on top of that.

Gboard's latest beta borrows tablet layout cues from physical keyboards

Android software support for tablets has been coming a long way, and the top apps for tablets today really show what's possible when devs prioritize this form factor. But typing on tablets has always been a little fraught — you'd think it would be easy thanks to how much space we have, but poorly optimized interfaces have often wasted that opportunity. Thankfully, Google has been making real efforts this year to improve things for tablets, like we saw with its release of Android 12L. Now the latest app to give some special attention to larger screens is Gboard, hopefully making text entry on tablets a little more comfortable.



Lightning Amazon Prime Day deal slashes a whopping $400 off Motorola Edge+ (2022) price

You only have a few hours to save a massive and extremely rare 400 bucks on an unlocked Motorola Edge+ (2022) with 5G and 512GB storage.

Best Amazon Kindle e-reader 2022

Amazon makes the best e-readers money can buy, and the all-new Kindle Paperwhite is the perfect option if you're looking to pick up your first e-reader or are looking to upgrade from an older model.

Tuesday 11 October 2022

Kickstart your Amazon Luna setup with this Prime Day bundle

Amazon is holding yet another Prime Day event, and we're inching closer and closer to Black Friday. But this hasn't stopped quality sales from appearing, and if you're into gaming, especially gaming on Android as well as through streaming services, we have a few sales worth highlighting. First up is a discount on a Fire TV Gaming Bundle that comes with a Fire TV Stick 4K Max and Luna Controller, currently 40% off at $75. But that's not all.



The Moto Razr (2022) is about to launch in Europe, at a very high price tag

A delayed international debut and a steep price tag might result in the Moto Razr 2022 being dead on arrival in Europe.

Lenovo's incredible Chromebook Flex 5i can be yours for $150 off on Prime Day

The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i might have been released in 2021, but it's still quite an impressive Chromebook. And for Prime Day part two, you can save $150, bringing the price down to under $300.

Flaunt your foldable fashion with this $800 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 deal

In three years of their existence, Samsung's foldables have come a long way, and the best part is that they don't cost an arm and a leg anymore. Samsung's latest Galaxy Z Flip 4 is already discounted by a full $200 for the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale, making it one of the most affordable foldables at just $800.



Prime Day October tablet deals: the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is now $150 off!

Are you in the market for a new tablet? Amazon's October Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to get one at a great price!

The Oculus Quest is getting Windows 11 and Microsoft Office

Remote work tools have evolved substantially since 2020, and the latest versions of Microsoft's Office, Windows, Teams, and Azure include support for the Meta Quest 2 and Quest Pro.

Monday 10 October 2022

YouTube gets with the times, introduces handles for creators and channels

YouTube has introduced "handles," a unique name for creators and their channels. The video streaming platform sees this new identifier as a way for creators to capture and promote their content to their audience in a variety of ways on YouTube and outside of it.

Best Android smartwatch 2022

We love the Galaxy Watch 5, but there are so many other great smartwatch options for your phone. Here are our top picks!

Google Play Store cuts off access to customizable ad-free Instagram hack

App stores like Google Play serve two different customer groups, with interests all their own. Smartphone users are mostly concerned about stores detecting malicious apps, and keeping their devices safe, while developers want exposure for their software, and protection for their IP. When one app starts accessing another's services in an unauthorized way, though, we're almost certainly headed for conflict, as we saw earlier this year with the shutdown of YouTube Vanced. This week we're learning about the latest app to get in that kind of trouble, as the Google Play Store boots an app that was offering a customizable, ad-free, suggestion-free-feed alternative to Instagram.



Analyst says not to expect Apple's own 5G modem inside the iPhone before 2025 at the earliest

According to analyst Jeff Pu, Apple plans on using Qualcomm's Snapdragon X75 5G modem in 2024 and won't use its own in-house component until 2025 at the earliest.

Best cheap Chromebook deals and prices: October 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.

Samsung Galaxy S23 leak points to a welcome battery increase

A new leak suggests that the base Galaxy S23 model will pack a larger battery than the vanilla Galaxy S22.

Sunday 9 October 2022

iPhone 14 bug activates Crash Detection and calls 911 with the user on a rollercoaster

The iPhone 14 series' Crash Detection feature is so sensitive that it is calling first responders when users are sitting on a roller coaster.

Verizon has updates ready for these dozen Samsung phones and tablets

Verizon has software updates ready for a dozen Samsung Galaxy devices ranging from the Galaxy S20 to the Galaxy Z Fold 4.

Trusted insider revises expectations for the iPhone SE 4

Apple appears to have finally learned that most consumers don't want chunky bezels and tiny screens.

WhatsApp group chats are about to make room for you and 1,023 of your closest friends

WhatsApp groups keep getting larger and larger. For a long time, WhatsApp's group cap stood at 256 people which was great for groups of friends and classrooms, but it started to get pretty limiting once people wanted to make group chats for even larger groups of people. That cap was raised to 512 people quite recently. But WhatsApp is about to double it once again and allow you to make group chats with over a thousand members.



This Samsung deal stacks up big savings on Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Fold 4

We've probably got you figured out: you've been wanting a Galaxy Z Flip 4 or Galaxy Fold 4 for weeks at this point — maybe just to Flex over your friends — but just had to wait for the right paycheck to drop into your bank account. Maybe, though, you're a tad bit sad about missing those early pre-order perks? Well, Samsung's got some good news for you: it's got some new ones in play.



GPS platform and other factors lead a driver to his death

An unnamed GPS platform led a driver to a bridge that had been washed out leading to his death. It's a lesson for all of us who rely on turn-by-turn directions.

iPhone 14's new crash detection plagued with false alarms

One of the great things about living in 2022 is all the life-saving technology we have on our wrists or in our pockets. If you wear an Apple Watch, a Galaxy Watch, or, soon enough, a Pixel Watch, your device is able to tell when you've fallen and call for help when you aren't able to. Android and Apple devices can also detect when you've been involved in a car crash as well. That said, a number of Apple Watch and iPhone owners have found that their crash detection feature may be a little too eager to call 911.



The best smart speakers for your home in 2022

It's hard to imagine a smart home setup without a smart speaker — these speakers are the command center for all your connected devices. They let you control multiple devices with a single command or cast old memories from Google Photos to Android TV boxes, so you don't have to fumble with tens of different apps on your phone for a simple task.



How to take a perfect astrophotography shot with your Google Pixel

It's incredible how much mobile photography has evolved in the last decade on the top Android phones, and with Google's astrophotography mode on the Google Pixel 3 and later, it's easier than ever to capture constellations and even the Milky Way that were once only accessible with expensive gear and hours of editing.



Saturday 8 October 2022

U.S. refurbished iPhone market feels impact from demand for 5G support

Prices for many refurbished iPhone models have been dropping since the iPhone 14 line was released.

Pixel 7 Pro teardown shows Google could still care more about repairability

Google has finally launched the Pixel 7 and the Pixel 7 Pro. It's carrying a lot of internal upgrades such as the new Tensor G2 SoC, and, in the case of the Pixel 7 Pro, a new, improved zoom imaging system. It's almost sure to earn a spot in everyone's shortlist of the best Android phones. But if you wanted to have a closer look at the inside workings of the phone before it reaches your hands, you can, thanks to a new teardown video. But spoiler alert: if you're expecting it to be easier to repair than its predecessor, you're going to be sorely disappointed.



In weeks, both Surface Duo models could get Android 12L with a Windows 11-based skin

The Surface Duo 1 & Surface Duo 2 are expected to receive an update to Android 12L shortly, including a skin based on Windows 11.

Your Pixel can now get the Pixel 7's new, nature-inspired sounds and ringtones, too

Fall may have arrived in the northern hemisphere, but Google's definitely in spring renewal mode right now with an assortment of hardware launches — not the least among them being the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. In that spirit, the company is pulsing out some new sounds for all Pixel owners to enjoy.



Can you use Pixel Watch with iPhone?

The Pixel Watch is like Google's answer to the Apple Watch, sporting plenty of health, wellness, and connectivity features.

Friday 7 October 2022

Wear OS 3: Eligible smartwatches, features, and everything you need to know

Wear OS 3 is the latest update to Google's smartwatch platform co-developed by Google and Samsung. It brings some notable changes compared to previous iterations of Wear OS, which should boost it compared to both Google and Samsung's efforts in the space, combining the best of both companies. Here's what else you can expect!

Samsung's Galaxy S23 launch colors could skip this classic option

The Google Pixel 7 and 7 Pro are out in the open, but now we're looking forward to our next big Android flagship launch, and anticipation surrounding the Samsung Galaxy S23 series only continues to grow. We recently heard rumors about battery upgrades and camera hardware, and now the next details to surface concern which colors the phones might arrive in — and we're not sure that we love what we hear.



Meta detects 400+ Facebook-compromising Android and iOS apps you need to delete 'immediately'

The latest list of malicious Android and iOS apps you have to delete ASAP is scary long, covering all kinds of categories and targeting Facebook login data in particular.

Best Alexa speaker 2022

Whether you buy an Amazon-branded Echo smart speaker, or something from a third party like Sonos or eufy, there are many great Alexa speakers to choose from. We're here to break down all the options and help you make the best purchase decision.

OnePlus 7 and 7T series receive stable OxygenOS 12, complete with visual revamp

OnePlus' OxygenOS 12 skin atop Android 12 is rolling out to its 7 and 7T series devices. This update brings visual and personalization improvements to the phones while also including a Work-Life Balance feature.

Signal is testing a new Stories feature on its platform

Signal appears to be joining the bandwagon of Stories feature implementation on its platform like the competition.

Thursday 6 October 2022

The best Google Pixel 7 Pro cases in 2022

After reinventing the Pixel experience last year, Google could focus on refining the hardware and software with the Pixel 7 Pro, bumping up the video experience with Cinematic Blur and 4K 60fps on all of its cameras. Whether you intend to take those cameras everywhere to start your TikTok career or just want one of the best Android phones on the market, protect your investment with the best Pixel 7 Pro cases. From thin and clear to ruggedly handsome, there's a case here for everyone.



Where is the Pixel foldable?

According to industry insiders, Google is set to launch its foldable in early 2023.

Pixel Watch hands-on and first impressions: Google is officially in the smartwatch game

We were able to attend the Made by Google 2022 event and go hands-on with the first-ever Pixel Watch. Come on in to find out what the fuss is all about.

Google Pixel Watch hands-on: Trying to live up to the hype

Google has been hyping up the Pixel Watch since May when Google Senior Vice President Rick Osterloh showed it off on his wrist, to everyone’s surprise during Google I/O. Even discarding the leaks that came in between then and now, Google has shared a lot of teasers, building up the hype further and further for what it hopes will be one of the best Wear OS watches. Today is finally the day that we get to go hands-on with the watch ourselves and are allowed to get a first impression of its look and feel, and how well the software runs.



Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro hands-on: Refined elegance

Holding the Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro in your hand for the first time is an exercise in déjà vu. If last year's phones marked a total overhaul for Google's hardware philosophy — right down to the chipset powering it — these devices are designed to carry that legacy forward. But with another year of experience under their belt, it seems clear that the Made By Google team wants to convince even the most skeptical of iPhone owners that the Pixel 7 is ready to be your next phone, and honestly, they might be right.



Google Pixel Watch: initial impressions

The Google Pixel Watch is official and we now know what it's all about. Here are our initial thoughts, right after the Made by Google event!

The best Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro cases you can get right now

Even though the vanilla Pixel 7 can even be perceived as “affordable” with its price tag of just $599, and the true flagship - the Pixel 7 Pro is still way under the psychological $1000 threshold (starting at $899), both phones still need protection.

Wednesday 5 October 2022

Last-minute leak highlights all the key differences between the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro

Just in case you needed a little last-minute clarity regarding the differences between the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro ahead of their full announcement, this leaked video offers precisely that.

Made by Google 2022 live blog: everything we expect out of the Pixel event

Follow Android Central as we live blog everything we know

App developer forces Android users to pay more for in-app items after Apple hiked its pricing tiers

A decision by app developer Niantic is being criticized by Android users who are being asked to pay more for in-app purchases for Niantic games because of Apple's price hike.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 review: The perfect foldable

The Galaxy Z Flip 4 doesn't have a radically new design, but it comes with key upgrades in major areas and an even more durable chassis. If you want a foldable that's easy to hold and use, this is the obvious choice.

Get Android 13 QPR1 Beta 2 for your Pixel now to distract you from Pixel 7 envy

Another month, another beta release. While we're all eagerly anticipating tomorrow's Pixel event, reading over those last-second leaks and dreaming of what the Pixel Watch might feel like on our wrist, Google's seen it fit to drop the next Android 13 QPR1 beta on us. If you're rocking a compatible device and enrolled in the beta program, QPR1 Beta 2 is now available, delivering us a preview of an upcoming Pixel Feature Drop.



Google's Pixel sales aren't hitting like Samsung

Google's Pixel sold around 27.6 million units since2016 which is far from Samsung's 270 million sold in 2021. Contributing factors may range from the availability of the Pixel series to where consumer interests lie as far as the phone they're interested in.

The EU mandating a single charging specification is a win for everyone

Some think of it as a blow to the Apple way of doing things but the new EU mandate for USB-C is great for consumers.

Tuesday 4 October 2022

Nest Audio vs. Amazon Echo (4th Gen): Which should you buy?

Amazon and Google released its latest smart speakers just a couple of weeks apart in 2020. We've yet to see newer models since then, but these speakers have barely lost a step. Here's what you need to know about how they compare in terms of features and specs.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus could be looking at a battery-size boost

Samsung should be launching the Galaxy S23 series early next year, and as the days left in 2022 tick down, we're coming across more information about what we can expect for the S23 series when they debut. Recently leaked device renders suggest we're looking at relatively minor design changes, with something that looks like the Galaxy S22 Ultra’s camera packaging becoming the standard for all S23 series devices. Now the latest rumor claims all S23 models except the Ultra variant will enjoy a bump in battery capacity.



Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K vs. Roku Streaming Stick 4K

Both the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K offer a high-quality streaming experience at an affordable price. But which device is best for you? Here, we break down the specifics of each streaming stick so that you can make an informed decision.

It's (even more) official: Apple will need to make your USB-C iPhone dream a reality... soon-ish

The European Union's long overdue "common charger" law for all mobile devices is now officially adopted, forcing Apple to ditch the iPhone's Lightning connector... eventually.

The Best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 prices and deals of October 2022

Since it first hit store shelves in August 2021, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 has made waves as the best foldable phone on the market. Here's how to save big and get one for yourself.

Monday 3 October 2022

Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro: Everything we know

It's been a big year for Google. Not only did the Pixel 6a win over our hearts, taking everything that was good about the Pixel 6 and packaging it into a mid-range phone, but the company has already teased the upcoming Pixel 7 and 7 Pro for a fall 2022 launch. That launch is now confirmed for October 6, where we'll be seeing the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, the Pixel Watch, and some new Nest devices. All three of Google's most recent smartphone launches are among the best Android devices you can buy today, and these upcoming premium models promise to offer improvements in some crucial categories.



A bunch of Amazon's hugely popular Echo devices are on sale at some of their lowest prices ever

Christmas appears to have come early this year for fans of already affordable Amazon Echo-branded smart speakers and smart displays from 2020 and 2021.

What else can I do with my Stadia controller?

Google is completely shutting down Stadia services, but that doesn't mean your controller is useless. Here's what else you can do with your Stadia controller.

The best Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 deals of October 2022

The Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro have landed, and we've got all of the best deals collected here.

YouTube is testing a 4K Premium paywall

It's been a dozen years since YouTube began supporting 4K videos and while viewership at that resolution is presumably pretty low relative to 1080p, those who have great internet and center their shortform binging around their 4K TVs or the few 4K phones out there will generally want to get all the pixels they can. But that desire may become ensnared with extra costs if a recent development pans out.



Amazon Fire 7 tablet (2022) review: it's a great tablet from the right perspective

Amazon's cheapest tablet now costs a bit more, but still represents a perfect gateway to enter the Alexa ecosystem. You just need to keep in mind that this isn't going to go toe-to-toe with other tablets.

Sunday 2 October 2022

New Pixel 7 leaks spill the beans on just about everything

The latest Pixel 7 leaks provide details on the specs of the upcoming phones. Leaked videos also highlight some of the new camera features.

Another huge Pixel Watch leak reveals up to 24 hour battery life and much more

Another huge leak, this time allegedly from a Taiwan-based carrier, reveals more specs and features related to the Google Pixel Watch.

Latest Pixel 7 leaks zoom in on camera performance, tease Cinematic Blur

With a heavy dose of Pixel Watch leaks coming into the weekend, consider this a wind change as we head out of it: the Pixel 7 is getting undressed well before Google's event Thursday with leaked spec sheets and ads. Okay, maybe we'll also bring back in some new Pixel Watch intel for dessert.



A new patent by Apple indicates that reverse wireless charging could finally be coming to the iPhone

The feature was notably absent from this year's models.

Dynamic Island app for Android, the dynamicSpot, reaches a major milestone

The Android app that calls itself the "Dynamic Island for Android," the dynamicSpot, now has over 1 million installs.

Latest Google System Updates bring almost-forgotten audio switching feature

September's package of Google System Updates went public a couple weeks ago, though as a matter of fact, we had reported on a lot of the features within earlier on. It turns out, however, that we have a couple of stragglers that came across the finish line late, so we wanted to make sure you knew what was officially coming with which component update.



Saturday 1 October 2022

Patent potentially reveals iPhone rivaling Galaxy S23 Ultra camera feature but don't get hopes up

A new Samsung patent indicates it could be working on a telephoto camera with sensor-shift stabilization intended for conventional phones like the unannounced S23 Ultra and other form factors.

Global variants of the Samsung Galaxy S22 are getting the October 2022 security update

Samsung (and not Google) is easily the fastest to roll out monthly security updates for its devices. This is an odd notion, given that Samsung has more smartphones than Google on its roster, yet the former has a consistently streamlined update rollout process, save for some rare delays like last month. With September officially over, it's now time for the October 2022 security update to begin reaching devices. Samsung has been particularly fast with the US carrier versions of the Galaxy S21 and the Galaxy S22 with networks announcing the update even before we got into October. Just a day later, the security patch has made its way to the Galaxy S22 models in Asia and Europe.



Best Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra cases 2022

Samsung's Galaxy S21 Ultra is a smartphone that's big in every sense of the word. From a gorgeous display to a top-of-the-line rear camera setup, it has everything you could for. And that is why you should get one of these best Galaxy S21 Ultra cases if you want to protect your investment for years to come.

YouTube TV subscribers can now skip the 85-channel package and go a la carte

Despite multiple hurdles, YouTube TV has emerged as America's largest live streaming service, thanks to its versatile plan offerings. The Google-owned company has also set out to make its live TV streaming platform perform better for more users with the recent inclusion of 5.1 audio support on Apple TV and Fire TV. Well, YouTube TV is getting another big update this week, as the service is now allowing users to subscribe to individual channels and services, bypassing the need to sign onto the entire channel package.



You've seen the Nothing Ear Stick, but you should see the earbuds themselves

Nothing may have a decent technical backbone to it, but for Carl Pei's newest brand, the messaging has to be all about the flair. The Nothing Ear Stick has been nothing but flair since we heard about it more than a week ago between fashion shows and Instagram runway videos. But for all the looks, some people are still wondering if it would matter if they bought an Ear Stick over a Nothing Ear (1). In fact, what's preventing you from getting literally any other pair of wireless earbuds? Well, surely some new renders will help Nothing make the case for the Ear Stick buds?



Must "G" TV: Google runs this 30-second ad on YouTube for the Pixel 7 and Pixel Watch

Google has been promoting this week's unveiling of the Pixel 7 series and the new Pixel Watch with a 30-second video on YouTube.