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  • Android 14 update tracker: When will your phone get it?

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    Android 14 Upside Doiwn Cake Version
    Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

    In February 2023, Google officially announced the first developer preview of Android 14. This will be the 2023 version of the operating system. There will be a months-long period of previews and betas before the stable version arrives. But the launch of this operating system version probably has you asking a few questions. Which phones will get Android 14? When can I update to Android 14? We’ve got some answers for you below!

    This article will see continuous updates as the release cycle of the 2023 Android version continues on. As such, we highly recommend bookmarking this article and coming back every once in a while to check if there have been any updates for your phone!



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    Android 14 Upside Doiwn Cake Version
    Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

    In February 2023, Google officially announced the first developer preview of Android 14. This will be the 2023 version of the operating system. There will be a months-long period of previews and betas before the stable version arrives. But the launch of this operating system version probably has you asking a few questions. Which phones will get Android 14? When can I update to Android 14? We’ve got some answers for you below!

    This article will see continuous updates as the release cycle of the 2023 Android version continues on. As such, we highly recommend bookmarking this article and coming back every once in a while to check if there have been any updates for your phone!



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    Visible will now pay for your phone service if you lose your job

    0
    Cat S62 Pro talking
    Credit: Chase Bernath / Android Authority
    • Visible is launching a new program called Visible Impacts.
    • Connection Protection will be a part of the Visible Impacts program.
    • Connection Protection promises to cover up to three months of phone bills for those who are laid off.

    In a time when various sectors are seeing layoffs left and right, Visible has just announced a new program that could help those who have lost their jobs.

    Today, Visible — a Verizon-owned all-digital wireless carrier — announced a new social initiative called Visible Impacts. To kick off the platform, the company is debuting a new program called Connection Protection. This program — created in partnership with the nonprofit organization Empower Work — will offer to pay for three months of service to customers who have been laid off.



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    Cat S62 Pro talking
    Credit: Chase Bernath / Android Authority
    • Visible is launching a new program called Visible Impacts.
    • Connection Protection will be a part of the Visible Impacts program.
    • Connection Protection promises to cover up to three months of phone bills for those who are laid off.

    In a time when various sectors are seeing layoffs left and right, Visible has just announced a new program that could help those who have lost their jobs.

    Today, Visible — a Verizon-owned all-digital wireless carrier — announced a new social initiative called Visible Impacts. To kick off the platform, the company is debuting a new program called Connection Protection. This program — created in partnership with the nonprofit organization Empower Work — will offer to pay for three months of service to customers who have been laid off.



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    Android 14 could allow you to clone apps and login with two accounts at once

    0
    Google Play Store January 2023
    Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority
    • Google is testing the ability to clone apps in Android 14.
    • This would allow you to have two instances of one app with a different account signed into each one.
    • This feature is not active in Android 14 DP1, but could be “switched on” in future releases.

    Some Android OEMs offer an app cloning feature. They have different names and slightly different features, but the core principle is the same: you can have two instances of one app, each having a separate account. This could allow you to, for example, be logged into one social network with two accounts simultaneously. All you need to do is open the correct app to access the account you want.

    Now, it looks like Google is toying with the idea of baking a similar function right into Android 14. Thanks to some code sleuthing from Mishaal Rahman at XDA-Developers, we know that you can access a developer flag in the first developer preview of Android 14. Flipping this flag turns on a “Cloned Apps” feature within Android settings.



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    Google Play Store January 2023
    Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority
    • Google is testing the ability to clone apps in Android 14.
    • This would allow you to have two instances of one app with a different account signed into each one.
    • This feature is not active in Android 14 DP1, but could be “switched on” in future releases.

    Some Android OEMs offer an app cloning feature. They have different names and slightly different features, but the core principle is the same: you can have two instances of one app, each having a separate account. This could allow you to, for example, be logged into one social network with two accounts simultaneously. All you need to do is open the correct app to access the account you want.

    Now, it looks like Google is toying with the idea of baking a similar function right into Android 14. Thanks to some code sleuthing from Mishaal Rahman at XDA-Developers, we know that you can access a developer flag in the first developer preview of Android 14. Flipping this flag turns on a “Cloned Apps” feature within Android settings.



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    Google Chrome on desktop is getting a biometric boost

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    Chrome desktop biometric authentication password manager
    Credit: Google Blog
    • Chrome on desktop is getting biometric authentication support for the password manager.
    • This means you can access your credentials and autofill passwords with a biometric scan.

    Google Chrome introduced a new biometric authentication feature for Android last week, letting you lock incognito tabs behind a fingerprint. Now, Chrome on desktop is getting some biometric enhancements.

    Google announced in a blog post (h/t: Android Police) that Chrome’s Password Manager on desktops now supports your computer’s biometric authentication options. More specifically, you can scan your fingerprint or face to reveal, copy, or edit credentials in the password manager — much like Chrome for Android.



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    Chrome desktop biometric authentication password manager
    Credit: Google Blog
    • Chrome on desktop is getting biometric authentication support for the password manager.
    • This means you can access your credentials and autofill passwords with a biometric scan.

    Google Chrome introduced a new biometric authentication feature for Android last week, letting you lock incognito tabs behind a fingerprint. Now, Chrome on desktop is getting some biometric enhancements.

    Google announced in a blog post (h/t: Android Police) that Chrome’s Password Manager on desktops now supports your computer’s biometric authentication options. More specifically, you can scan your fingerprint or face to reveal, copy, or edit credentials in the password manager — much like Chrome for Android.



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    The Pixel 7 Pro launched at $899, but here’s how much it costs to make

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    google pixel 7 pro back in hand

    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • A new report has revealed that the Pixel 7 Pro costs $413 to make.
    • Samsung reportedly accounts for 51% of the total figure.

    The Google Pixel 7 Pro dukes it out with Pro and Ultra phones from other brands but undercuts most of its rivals. That $899 launch price tag means it’s cheaper than the likes of the iPhone 14 Pro line and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus/Ultra.



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    google pixel 7 pro back in hand

    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • A new report has revealed that the Pixel 7 Pro costs $413 to make.
    • Samsung reportedly accounts for 51% of the total figure.

    The Google Pixel 7 Pro dukes it out with Pro and Ultra phones from other brands but undercuts most of its rivals. That $899 launch price tag means it’s cheaper than the likes of the iPhone 14 Pro line and Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus/Ultra.



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    We've added some exciting 🆕 updates to the status feature.

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    10 tips for taking the best selfie: follow these steps for stunning results

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    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Green Taking Selfie
    Credit: Harley Maranan / Android Authority

    There is no denying some selfies are better than others. Are you trying to take the best selfies you can? There is more to it than simply pointing the camera at your face and pressing the shutter button. Today we’ll show you how to take a good selfie in a step-by-step guide that will take your images to the next level. Your friends, family, and followers are in for a treat!

    First read: Photography terms you should know



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    Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Green Taking Selfie
    Credit: Harley Maranan / Android Authority

    There is no denying some selfies are better than others. Are you trying to take the best selfies you can? There is more to it than simply pointing the camera at your face and pressing the shutter button. Today we’ll show you how to take a good selfie in a step-by-step guide that will take your images to the next level. Your friends, family, and followers are in for a treat!

    First read: Photography terms you should know



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    The best Visible deals: Get a $200 gift card with the iPhone 14

    0
    A Samsung Galaxy S9 on some grass with the Visible logo on the display.

    If you want to switch to a contract-free prepaid carrier in the US but you also want to keep the nationwide coverage of Verizon’s 5G network, then Visible is the best option for you. So we’ve dug deep and put together a list of the best Visible deals that are active right now.

    Our own Andrew Grush even gave Visible a try as an alternative to satellite internet and found a change for the better.

    Related: Visible buyer’s guide

    Visible keeps things simple plan-wise by offering just one. However, real opportunities for savings pop up when you purchase a new phone or add a line of service. You can choose from any phone in the Verizon array, which means that the Samsung Galaxy S22 is more affordable than ever and the Galaxy S23 will be available soon.

    Here are some of the best Visible deals currently on offer.

    Best Visible deals

    1. Get a $200 gift card when you switch to visible
    2. Trade in your old phone and get a new Android for free
    3. Bring a friend and save $20 each
    4. Try Visible’s unlimited plan for free

    Editor’s note: We will update the list of Visible deals periodically as the offers change.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/m7oYQnb
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    A Samsung Galaxy S9 on some grass with the Visible logo on the display.

    If you want to switch to a contract-free prepaid carrier in the US but you also want to keep the nationwide coverage of Verizon’s 5G network, then Visible is the best option for you. So we’ve dug deep and put together a list of the best Visible deals that are active right now.

    Our own Andrew Grush even gave Visible a try as an alternative to satellite internet and found a change for the better.

    Related: Visible buyer’s guide

    Visible keeps things simple plan-wise by offering just one. However, real opportunities for savings pop up when you purchase a new phone or add a line of service. You can choose from any phone in the Verizon array, which means that the Samsung Galaxy S22 is more affordable than ever and the Galaxy S23 will be available soon.

    Here are some of the best Visible deals currently on offer.

    Best Visible deals

    1. Get a $200 gift card when you switch to visible
    2. Trade in your old phone and get a new Android for free
    3. Bring a friend and save $20 each
    4. Try Visible’s unlimited plan for free

    Editor’s note: We will update the list of Visible deals periodically as the offers change.



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    How to pin a comment on Instagram

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    On your Instagram account, you can pin up to three comments you receive on a post to the top of the comment feed. That way, they’re the first comments people will see when they view your post. It’s a small way to showcase and reward spreading positivity. Here’s how to pin your favorite replies to the top of your Instagram posts.

    Read more: How to drop a pin on Google Maps



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/v6TFai5
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    On your Instagram account, you can pin up to three comments you receive on a post to the top of the comment feed. That way, they’re the first comments people will see when they view your post. It’s a small way to showcase and reward spreading positivity. Here’s how to pin your favorite replies to the top of your Instagram posts.

    Read more: How to drop a pin on Google Maps



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    Poco X5 Pro review: Upping the budget ante

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    Poco X5 Pro face down on window ledge
    Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority

    The Poco X5 Pro is the latest budget Android phone in the Xiaomi sub-brand’s X series. 2021’s Poco X3 Pro delivered a ton of horsepower and little else, while 2022’s Poco X4 Pro offered plenty of upgrades but a major performance downgrade. So do you get the best of both worlds with the follow-up? It’s time to find out in our Poco X5 Pro review.

    About this Poco X5 Pro review: I tested the Poco X5 Pro (8GB/256GB) over a period of two weeks. It was running MIUI 14.0.1.0 SMSEUXM and Android 12 on the November 2022 security patch. The unit was provided by Xiaomi for this review.

    What you need to know about the Poco X5 Pro

    Poco X5 Pro camera housing



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    Poco X5 Pro face down on window ledge
    Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority

    The Poco X5 Pro is the latest budget Android phone in the Xiaomi sub-brand’s X series. 2021’s Poco X3 Pro delivered a ton of horsepower and little else, while 2022’s Poco X4 Pro offered plenty of upgrades but a major performance downgrade. So do you get the best of both worlds with the follow-up? It’s time to find out in our Poco X5 Pro review.

    About this Poco X5 Pro review: I tested the Poco X5 Pro (8GB/256GB) over a period of two weeks. It was running MIUI 14.0.1.0 SMSEUXM and Android 12 on the November 2022 security patch. The unit was provided by Xiaomi for this review.

    What you need to know about the Poco X5 Pro

    Poco X5 Pro camera housing



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    Kon Se Log YouTube channel Chala Sakty Hai, کون سے لوگ یوٹیوب چینل چلا سکتے

    0
    Kon Se Log YouTube channel Chala Sakty Hai, کون سے لوگ یوٹیوب چینل چلا سکتے
    https://youtu.be/iNQQalM5TJ8
    Kon Se Log YouTube channel Chala Sakty Hai, کون سے لوگ یوٹیوب چینل چلا سکتے
    https://youtu.be/iNQQalM5TJ8

    Kon Se Log YouTube channel Chala Sakty Hai, کون سے لوگ یوٹیوب چینل چلا سکتے

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    Daily Authority: 🧹 Spring clean that smart home

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    🐇  Good day, and welcome to Monday’s edition of the Daily Authority. We finally got a cool, cloudy day in Cape Town, which seems all too rare nowadays. I’ve never been a lover of summer, so the colder weather couldn’t come soon enough for us in the southern hemisphere.

    Is your home ready for warmer weather?

    A yellow ring on the 5th gen Echo Dot with Clock



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    🐇  Good day, and welcome to Monday’s edition of the Daily Authority. We finally got a cool, cloudy day in Cape Town, which seems all too rare nowadays. I’ve never been a lover of summer, so the colder weather couldn’t come soon enough for us in the southern hemisphere.

    Is your home ready for warmer weather?

    A yellow ring on the 5th gen Echo Dot with Clock



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    Poll: Are you happy with your phone’s speakers?

    0
    Huawei P50 Pro bottom edge profile showing USB C port SIM tray and speaker
    Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority

    Smartphones aren’t built equally, as handsets can vary greatly when it comes to things like the display, horsepower, cameras, and battery capacity. Audio is another area of differentiation, and we’re particularly interested in smartphone speakers for today’s poll.

    We want to know whether you’re happy with the speakers on your smartphone. So let us know by answering the question below and leaving a comment if you’d like to elaborate on your choice.



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    Huawei P50 Pro bottom edge profile showing USB C port SIM tray and speaker
    Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority

    Smartphones aren’t built equally, as handsets can vary greatly when it comes to things like the display, horsepower, cameras, and battery capacity. Audio is another area of differentiation, and we’re particularly interested in smartphone speakers for today’s poll.

    We want to know whether you’re happy with the speakers on your smartphone. So let us know by answering the question below and leaving a comment if you’d like to elaborate on your choice.



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    Apple could soon challenge Samsung with its own ‘Ultra’ iPhone

    0

    Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max purple back

    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • Apple is reportedly in discussions to launch an “Ultra” branded iPhone.
    • The device might join the iPhone lineup launching in 2024.
    • It could sit atop the Pro and Pro Max models as the most premium iPhone ever.

    Apple is internally discussing adding a higher-end smartphone to the iPhone lineup, as per Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This device would sit atop the iPhone Pro and Pro Max models and could launch with the ‘Ultra’ branding, the same as Samsung’s top-of-the-line Galaxy S series flagships.



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    Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max purple back

    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • Apple is reportedly in discussions to launch an “Ultra” branded iPhone.
    • The device might join the iPhone lineup launching in 2024.
    • It could sit atop the Pro and Pro Max models as the most premium iPhone ever.

    Apple is internally discussing adding a higher-end smartphone to the iPhone lineup, as per Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This device would sit atop the iPhone Pro and Pro Max models and could launch with the ‘Ultra’ branding, the same as Samsung’s top-of-the-line Galaxy S series flagships.



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    MagSafe cases are coming for our Android phones; bring them on!

    0
    iPhone 12 Pro Max MagSafe yellow case and Pixel 6 Pro Moment (M) Force case, internal side
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    The problem with using MagSafe accessories on Android phones is that in order for them to stick to your phone, you need said phone to have the proprietary magnet array in one form or another. MagSafe adapter rings were a fine solution for a while, but they’re a little unsightly and they can catch on fabric when you slide the phone in and our of your pockets. Cases are more seamless; they hide the magnets inside of them. Until now, however, MagSafe cases for Android were either too expensive (Moment, Mous, Pitaka) or too cheap and no-name-branded.

    Take a look at Amazon’s list of MagSafe-compatible cases for the one-year-old Samsung Galaxy S22, for example, and you’ll see a list of “brands” with names that look like someone just hit random letters on a keyboard and called it a day. No big hitters like Spigen, Otterbox, Speck, or others.



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    iPhone 12 Pro Max MagSafe yellow case and Pixel 6 Pro Moment (M) Force case, internal side
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    The problem with using MagSafe accessories on Android phones is that in order for them to stick to your phone, you need said phone to have the proprietary magnet array in one form or another. MagSafe adapter rings were a fine solution for a while, but they’re a little unsightly and they can catch on fabric when you slide the phone in and our of your pockets. Cases are more seamless; they hide the magnets inside of them. Until now, however, MagSafe cases for Android were either too expensive (Moment, Mous, Pitaka) or too cheap and no-name-branded.

    Take a look at Amazon’s list of MagSafe-compatible cases for the one-year-old Samsung Galaxy S22, for example, and you’ll see a list of “brands” with names that look like someone just hit random letters on a keyboard and called it a day. No big hitters like Spigen, Otterbox, Speck, or others.



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    I’m training for a 250K race with an Apple Watch Ultra. It’s perfect.

    0
    apple watch ultra on top of a book
    Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Dhruv Bhutani

    I’m not an athlete. Far from it, I grew up as the stereotypical chubby geek obsessed with computers over sports. That changed a few years back when I decided to take charge of my health and fitness. Fast forward to today, and I’m training for a 250K race across Jordan. Over the last six months, my constant companion in training for this race has been the Apple Watch Ultra. Here’s why I picked Apple’s smartwatch over everything else on the market.

    I know what you’re about to say. Why the heck would I use an Apple Watch over some of the best fitness watches like those by Garmin or, say, a Coros for a grueling two-hundred-and-fifty-kilometer race? Critically, those fitness watches can go up to a month or more on a single charge, offer a wealth of fitness data, and have the sporty looks to go with that.



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    apple watch ultra on top of a book
    Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Dhruv Bhutani

    I’m not an athlete. Far from it, I grew up as the stereotypical chubby geek obsessed with computers over sports. That changed a few years back when I decided to take charge of my health and fitness. Fast forward to today, and I’m training for a 250K race across Jordan. Over the last six months, my constant companion in training for this race has been the Apple Watch Ultra. Here’s why I picked Apple’s smartwatch over everything else on the market.

    I know what you’re about to say. Why the heck would I use an Apple Watch over some of the best fitness watches like those by Garmin or, say, a Coros for a grueling two-hundred-and-fifty-kilometer race? Critically, those fitness watches can go up to a month or more on a single charge, offer a wealth of fitness data, and have the sporty looks to go with that.



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    What are burner phone numbers and how to get one

    0

    You’ve no doubt heard of the burner phone before. They appear all the time in police procedurals, spy shows, and crime movies. Well, they are real things, and people can get them whenever they want. Of course, the method has changed somewhat. Back in the old days, you would just buy a cheap phone for cash, use it for whatever you wanted, and toss the phone. These days, there are apps and services that provide burner phone numbers that you can access with your normal, everyday phone. In this article, we’ll talk more about burner phone numbers, how effective they are, and how to get one.

    Read next: The best free text apps that send real text messages



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/K8pZPsx
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    You’ve no doubt heard of the burner phone before. They appear all the time in police procedurals, spy shows, and crime movies. Well, they are real things, and people can get them whenever they want. Of course, the method has changed somewhat. Back in the old days, you would just buy a cheap phone for cash, use it for whatever you wanted, and toss the phone. These days, there are apps and services that provide burner phone numbers that you can access with your normal, everyday phone. In this article, we’ll talk more about burner phone numbers, how effective they are, and how to get one.

    Read next: The best free text apps that send real text messages



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    Deal: Score 2 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for just $9.99

    0
    Two Month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Deal
    Credit:
    Tech Deals

    With the summer months still some way off, you might need some entertainment to get you by. Gamers are in luck, with this excellent deal on a two-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription coming to our attention. If you catch the deal in time, you can score the 60-day sub for just $9.99 ($20 off).

    This might be the best deal we’ve ever seen on Game Pass Ultimate. Microsoft itself offers an excellent introductory rate of just $1 for your first month of this service, but it then jumps to the usual price of $14.99 in your second month. Picking up your first two months for $9.99 is a saving of $6 on this offer and $20 on the regular price.



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    Two Month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Deal
    Credit:
    Tech Deals

    With the summer months still some way off, you might need some entertainment to get you by. Gamers are in luck, with this excellent deal on a two-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription coming to our attention. If you catch the deal in time, you can score the 60-day sub for just $9.99 ($20 off).

    This might be the best deal we’ve ever seen on Game Pass Ultimate. Microsoft itself offers an excellent introductory rate of just $1 for your first month of this service, but it then jumps to the usual price of $14.99 in your second month. Picking up your first two months for $9.99 is a saving of $6 on this offer and $20 on the regular price.



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    Google Pixel 6a revisited: The good and bad, six months later

    0

    The compact smartphone form factor is a rare breed nowadays, even more so in the midrange segment where large displays seem to reign supreme. Would-be buyers looking for a great but small Android phone are often left with no option but to go for the higher end with the likes of Asus, Samsung, or Sony, unless they’re lucky to live in a market where the Pixel A series is available.

    Google’s cheaper Pixels have managed to toe the line between features, size, and price for several generations now. The Pixel 6a is no exception. Despite a few drawbacks, we generally liked the phone in our initial Pixel 6a review, but have things changed since then? What does it feel like to use the Pixel 6a, six months after its release? Let’s find out.



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    The compact smartphone form factor is a rare breed nowadays, even more so in the midrange segment where large displays seem to reign supreme. Would-be buyers looking for a great but small Android phone are often left with no option but to go for the higher end with the likes of Asus, Samsung, or Sony, unless they’re lucky to live in a market where the Pixel A series is available.

    Google’s cheaper Pixels have managed to toe the line between features, size, and price for several generations now. The Pixel 6a is no exception. Despite a few drawbacks, we generally liked the phone in our initial Pixel 6a review, but have things changed since then? What does it feel like to use the Pixel 6a, six months after its release? Let’s find out.



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    The Weekly Authority: 📦 Unpacking Galaxy Unpacked

    0

    ⚡ Welcome to The Weekly Authority, the Android Authority newsletter that breaks down the top Android and tech news from the week. The 230th edition is here with all things Galaxy Unpacked, a Sony Xperia I V leak, the end of Sony’s PS Plus Collection, Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions, and more…

    🧹 I’ve been debating all week whether to buy the Dead Space remake or wait for Hogwarts Legacy next week, and I just can’t decide. On the one hand, I loved the original Dead Space; on the other hand, HOGWARTS. Dilemma!



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    ⚡ Welcome to The Weekly Authority, the Android Authority newsletter that breaks down the top Android and tech news from the week. The 230th edition is here with all things Galaxy Unpacked, a Sony Xperia I V leak, the end of Sony’s PS Plus Collection, Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions, and more…

    🧹 I’ve been debating all week whether to buy the Dead Space remake or wait for Hogwarts Legacy next week, and I just can’t decide. On the one hand, I loved the original Dead Space; on the other hand, HOGWARTS. Dilemma!



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    15 best 3D games for Android with excellent graphics

    0

    Early mobile games weren’t great when it comes to graphics. You may remember games like Snake, Doodle Jump, Fruit Ninja, and Angry Birds as the pinnacle of early mobile gaming. However, the times have changed. We now have plenty of games with excellent graphics. These games don’t provide the kinds of 3D experiences you get in an IMAX theater with 3D glasses. However, developers now use 3D graphics and environments to give players better immersion than ever before in mobile games. Here are the best 3D games with such graphics for your eyes to enjoy.

    The best 3D games for Android


    Asphalt 9: Legends

    Price: Free to play

    Gameloft’s Asphalt series contain some of the most iconic racing games on mobile. However, the games are also known for their hefty and aggressive micro-transaction strategies. Still, Asphalt 9: Legends is among the most beautiful games on mobile with 3D graphics and it even uses some HDR techniques to get even deeper colors. The game features 60 cars to collect, an absolute ton of races to play through, an online PvP element, and decent controls. The controls aren’t as granular as previous generations, but this is an arcade racer, not a car sim, so it’s acceptable.


    Black Desert Mobile

    Price: Free to play

    There are a number of decent MMORPGs for mobile. Black Desert Mobile is among them. The game contains five classes, a metric boatload of quests and missions, and a surprisingly good character customization tool and no, not just for a mobile game. The graphics are among the best in the genre and you’ll definitely appreciate your phone’s screen prowess with this one. There are also modern features like auto-play for help with things like grinding. We this New School RuneScape (Google Play link) is quite good for an MMORPG, but Black Desert Mobile is gorgeous.


    Call of Duty: Mobile

    Price: Free to play

    Call of Duty: Mobile launched in 2019 to massive success. It’s a FPS game with all kinds of game modes, including a 100-player battle royale, a zombie mode, classic PvP deathmatches, and a lot more. The game’s in-app purchases are almost entirely cosmetic so the game itself is free to play. Some other features include above-average graphics for a shooter, clans for social gaming, and various other game modes. This is easily among the best FPS games ever released for mobile. Unkilled and Shadowgun: Legends by Madfinger Games are also excellent FPS games with excellent graphics.


    FIFA Soccer

    Price: Free to play

    FIFA Soccer is one of the most popular sports games on mobile, and it also has some of the best graphics in the genre. Players build a team, compete against other players, and try to improve their team as they go. The game revolves around this core premise with support for over 30 leagues with all of the players who play in them. It is, at its core, a management sim for a soccer team, but you do actually get to play soccer games as well. It looks quite good, and a lot of people enjoy the game. The microtransactions could be better, though, and there is an element of pay-to-win with this one.

    Another big game in this space is Konami’s eFootball (Google Play), which also has pretty decent graphics.


    Genshin Impact

    Price: Free to play

    Genshin Impact is an action RPG with gacha elements. It features a bright, massive world that players can roam around in. There are tons of quests, fun characters to summon, and plenty of other things to do. The graphics are part of what makes this game so good. The expansive world is well-detailed, and there are several different environments. In addition, the developers have done a good job continually expanding the game to include more and more places. You won’t finish this one anytime soon, and it’s a delightful game to look at.


    Check out more Android games:


    GRID Autosport

    Price: $9.99

    GRID Autosport is one of the newer racing games and easily one of the best over the last couple of years. It features excellent 3D graphics, reasonably realistic physics, and plenty of content for racing fans. The game boasts over 100 unlockable cars, over 100 circuits to race through, scalable difficulty to keep the challenge alive, and support for external game controllers. Asphalt 9: Legends and Riptide GP: Renegade are two more excellent mobile racers and Mario Kart Tour is a fun game as well, but GRID Autosport feels like a console game while the others feel like mobile games.


    Lumino City

    Price: $4.99

    Lumino City is a puzzle game from Noodlecake Studios. This one is unique. The developers filmed real life items and used it in the game. Thus, the graphics are actually real life. The story takes about eight to ten hours to complete. Otherwise, you just engage with the world and solve the puzzles to progress. It’s truly one of the greatest 3D games out there. It runs for $4.99 with no in-app purchases or advertisements. Lumino City is also free with Google Play Pass if you have it.


    Minecraft

    Price: $6.99 with in-app purchases

    Minecraft is one of the most popular 3D games available. Most people know how this game works. You have a randomly generated world to explore and build. There are a ton of items to craft, online multiplayer, and a lot more. Updates in September 2017 allow mobile players to play with PC and console players as well. The number of things you can do is virtually limitless and you can play with your friends or strangers if you want. The graphics aren’t amazing, but the simplicity makes it easier for the entire game world to be altered by the player. The game runs for $6.99. The in-app purchases are for player skins and don’t affect game play.


    Monument Valley 2

    Price: $4.99

    Monument Valley 2 is one of the best puzzle games available. It’s also a great 3D game. It uses Escher-style level design and puzzles. Players need to rotate, move, or otherwise mess with levels in order to proceed. The game is rather short, but entertaining. It’s also beautifully done. The first Monument Valley game is also quite good and fairly priced. Those looking for huge games may be disappointed, though. This is definitely a quick play and an enjoyable one. It’s also free with Google Play Pass if you use it.


    Riptide GP: Renegade

    Price: $2.99

    Riptide GP: Renegade is the latest game in the Riptide GP series. It’s a series of racing games with jet skis instead of cars. The game features a deep campaign mode with an actual story line. In addition, there are various wave runners to unlock, an online multiplayer mode, and Google Play Games support for achievements and leaderboards. There is even some vehicle customization available. The game runs for $2.99 with no in-app purchases or you can grab it free with Google Play Pass.


    We have more Android games for you here:


    The Room: New Sins

    Price: $4.99

    The Room: New Sins is the fourth game in the franchise. It plays similarly to the first three The Room games. You solve a series of intricate puzzles. The game features outstanding graphics, a bit of an exploration element, a storyline, and more. This is easily among the best puzzle games available on mobile, period. The first three games in the series are no slouches, either. This one goes for $4.99 with no in-app purchases or advertising. It also has achievements and cloud saving, two features we always like seeing.


    Sky: Children of Light

    Price: Free to play

    Sky: Children of Light is an adorable little game with some pretty decent graphics. You roam around the world and solve puzzles to progress the story. The game is online and multiplayer, but it’s cooperative. Other players can walk up, grab your hand, and walk with you throughout the whole game. The non-competitive nature, calming graphics, and simple gameplay make this a difficult game to dislike. There are seven realms to explore, many puzzles to solve, and some very good story elements. This is one of the better mobile games, and it looks good too.


    Tower of Heaven

    Price: Free to play

    Tower of Fantasy is an action RPG with gacha elements. It competes with Genshin Impact but features more of an MMORPG feel than its competitor. Players summon characters, roam around the large open world, and progress through the story. There are also a ton of side quests and other little things that you can do. Some other game features include social elements like a cooperative mode, decent combat mechanics, and plenty of places to go exploring. We personally like Genshin Impact better, but we understand why some of our readers may not agree.


    Trials of Mana

    Price: $23.99

    Trials of Mana is an action RPG from Square Enix. The gameplay loop is pretty typical. You assemble a team of characters, progress through the story, and take down the big bad guy at the end. However, Square Enix has been doing this for decades, and the studio is pretty good at it. The graphics are good and blend together well with the art style and soundtrack. This port of the game is actually quite good, and better than the Switch version to some people. Square Enix also has Adventures of Mana on mobile, and it has 3D graphics as well. However, both games are pretty expensive, so we’ll recommend Trials of Mana first.


    XCOM 2 Collection

    Price: $19.99

    XCOM 2 Collection is one of the more graphically intensive games on Android. It’s a turn-based strategy game where you move your troops around the map and take down the enemies before they do the same to you. The game uses procedural generation to randomize maps and objectives, so it’ll be a while before you run into the same scenario twice. As you progress, you improve your troops, unlock things, and get customizations for your squad. The game costs $19.99, which seems like a lot. However, this version of the game comes with all four DLC packs from the original XCOM 2, so you don’t have to pay any extra for the full game experience.


    If we missed any great 3D games for Android, tell us about them in the comments! You can also click here to check out our latest Android app and game lists.
    Thank you for reading. Try these out too:



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/vusCZKb
    via IFTTT

    Early mobile games weren’t great when it comes to graphics. You may remember games like Snake, Doodle Jump, Fruit Ninja, and Angry Birds as the pinnacle of early mobile gaming. However, the times have changed. We now have plenty of games with excellent graphics. These games don’t provide the kinds of 3D experiences you get in an IMAX theater with 3D glasses. However, developers now use 3D graphics and environments to give players better immersion than ever before in mobile games. Here are the best 3D games with such graphics for your eyes to enjoy.

    The best 3D games for Android


    Asphalt 9: Legends

    Price: Free to play

    Gameloft’s Asphalt series contain some of the most iconic racing games on mobile. However, the games are also known for their hefty and aggressive micro-transaction strategies. Still, Asphalt 9: Legends is among the most beautiful games on mobile with 3D graphics and it even uses some HDR techniques to get even deeper colors. The game features 60 cars to collect, an absolute ton of races to play through, an online PvP element, and decent controls. The controls aren’t as granular as previous generations, but this is an arcade racer, not a car sim, so it’s acceptable.


    Black Desert Mobile

    Price: Free to play

    There are a number of decent MMORPGs for mobile. Black Desert Mobile is among them. The game contains five classes, a metric boatload of quests and missions, and a surprisingly good character customization tool and no, not just for a mobile game. The graphics are among the best in the genre and you’ll definitely appreciate your phone’s screen prowess with this one. There are also modern features like auto-play for help with things like grinding. We this New School RuneScape (Google Play link) is quite good for an MMORPG, but Black Desert Mobile is gorgeous.


    Call of Duty: Mobile

    Price: Free to play

    Call of Duty: Mobile launched in 2019 to massive success. It’s a FPS game with all kinds of game modes, including a 100-player battle royale, a zombie mode, classic PvP deathmatches, and a lot more. The game’s in-app purchases are almost entirely cosmetic so the game itself is free to play. Some other features include above-average graphics for a shooter, clans for social gaming, and various other game modes. This is easily among the best FPS games ever released for mobile. Unkilled and Shadowgun: Legends by Madfinger Games are also excellent FPS games with excellent graphics.


    FIFA Soccer

    Price: Free to play

    FIFA Soccer is one of the most popular sports games on mobile, and it also has some of the best graphics in the genre. Players build a team, compete against other players, and try to improve their team as they go. The game revolves around this core premise with support for over 30 leagues with all of the players who play in them. It is, at its core, a management sim for a soccer team, but you do actually get to play soccer games as well. It looks quite good, and a lot of people enjoy the game. The microtransactions could be better, though, and there is an element of pay-to-win with this one.

    Another big game in this space is Konami’s eFootball (Google Play), which also has pretty decent graphics.


    Genshin Impact

    Price: Free to play

    Genshin Impact is an action RPG with gacha elements. It features a bright, massive world that players can roam around in. There are tons of quests, fun characters to summon, and plenty of other things to do. The graphics are part of what makes this game so good. The expansive world is well-detailed, and there are several different environments. In addition, the developers have done a good job continually expanding the game to include more and more places. You won’t finish this one anytime soon, and it’s a delightful game to look at.


    Check out more Android games:


    GRID Autosport

    Price: $9.99

    GRID Autosport is one of the newer racing games and easily one of the best over the last couple of years. It features excellent 3D graphics, reasonably realistic physics, and plenty of content for racing fans. The game boasts over 100 unlockable cars, over 100 circuits to race through, scalable difficulty to keep the challenge alive, and support for external game controllers. Asphalt 9: Legends and Riptide GP: Renegade are two more excellent mobile racers and Mario Kart Tour is a fun game as well, but GRID Autosport feels like a console game while the others feel like mobile games.


    Lumino City

    Price: $4.99

    Lumino City is a puzzle game from Noodlecake Studios. This one is unique. The developers filmed real life items and used it in the game. Thus, the graphics are actually real life. The story takes about eight to ten hours to complete. Otherwise, you just engage with the world and solve the puzzles to progress. It’s truly one of the greatest 3D games out there. It runs for $4.99 with no in-app purchases or advertisements. Lumino City is also free with Google Play Pass if you have it.


    Minecraft

    Price: $6.99 with in-app purchases

    Minecraft is one of the most popular 3D games available. Most people know how this game works. You have a randomly generated world to explore and build. There are a ton of items to craft, online multiplayer, and a lot more. Updates in September 2017 allow mobile players to play with PC and console players as well. The number of things you can do is virtually limitless and you can play with your friends or strangers if you want. The graphics aren’t amazing, but the simplicity makes it easier for the entire game world to be altered by the player. The game runs for $6.99. The in-app purchases are for player skins and don’t affect game play.


    Monument Valley 2

    Price: $4.99

    Monument Valley 2 is one of the best puzzle games available. It’s also a great 3D game. It uses Escher-style level design and puzzles. Players need to rotate, move, or otherwise mess with levels in order to proceed. The game is rather short, but entertaining. It’s also beautifully done. The first Monument Valley game is also quite good and fairly priced. Those looking for huge games may be disappointed, though. This is definitely a quick play and an enjoyable one. It’s also free with Google Play Pass if you use it.


    Riptide GP: Renegade

    Price: $2.99

    Riptide GP: Renegade is the latest game in the Riptide GP series. It’s a series of racing games with jet skis instead of cars. The game features a deep campaign mode with an actual story line. In addition, there are various wave runners to unlock, an online multiplayer mode, and Google Play Games support for achievements and leaderboards. There is even some vehicle customization available. The game runs for $2.99 with no in-app purchases or you can grab it free with Google Play Pass.


    We have more Android games for you here:


    The Room: New Sins

    Price: $4.99

    The Room: New Sins is the fourth game in the franchise. It plays similarly to the first three The Room games. You solve a series of intricate puzzles. The game features outstanding graphics, a bit of an exploration element, a storyline, and more. This is easily among the best puzzle games available on mobile, period. The first three games in the series are no slouches, either. This one goes for $4.99 with no in-app purchases or advertising. It also has achievements and cloud saving, two features we always like seeing.


    Sky: Children of Light

    Price: Free to play

    Sky: Children of Light is an adorable little game with some pretty decent graphics. You roam around the world and solve puzzles to progress the story. The game is online and multiplayer, but it’s cooperative. Other players can walk up, grab your hand, and walk with you throughout the whole game. The non-competitive nature, calming graphics, and simple gameplay make this a difficult game to dislike. There are seven realms to explore, many puzzles to solve, and some very good story elements. This is one of the better mobile games, and it looks good too.


    Tower of Heaven

    Price: Free to play

    Tower of Fantasy is an action RPG with gacha elements. It competes with Genshin Impact but features more of an MMORPG feel than its competitor. Players summon characters, roam around the large open world, and progress through the story. There are also a ton of side quests and other little things that you can do. Some other game features include social elements like a cooperative mode, decent combat mechanics, and plenty of places to go exploring. We personally like Genshin Impact better, but we understand why some of our readers may not agree.


    Trials of Mana

    Price: $23.99

    Trials of Mana is an action RPG from Square Enix. The gameplay loop is pretty typical. You assemble a team of characters, progress through the story, and take down the big bad guy at the end. However, Square Enix has been doing this for decades, and the studio is pretty good at it. The graphics are good and blend together well with the art style and soundtrack. This port of the game is actually quite good, and better than the Switch version to some people. Square Enix also has Adventures of Mana on mobile, and it has 3D graphics as well. However, both games are pretty expensive, so we’ll recommend Trials of Mana first.


    XCOM 2 Collection

    Price: $19.99

    XCOM 2 Collection is one of the more graphically intensive games on Android. It’s a turn-based strategy game where you move your troops around the map and take down the enemies before they do the same to you. The game uses procedural generation to randomize maps and objectives, so it’ll be a while before you run into the same scenario twice. As you progress, you improve your troops, unlock things, and get customizations for your squad. The game costs $19.99, which seems like a lot. However, this version of the game comes with all four DLC packs from the original XCOM 2, so you don’t have to pay any extra for the full game experience.


    If we missed any great 3D games for Android, tell us about them in the comments! You can also click here to check out our latest Android app and game lists.
    Thank you for reading. Try these out too:



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/vusCZKb
    via IFTTT

    Apple’s Crash Detection is flooding 911 dispatchers with false alarms

    0
    A user enables Crash Detection on their Apple Watch.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • Skiers are triggering Apple’s Crash Detection feature and unintentionally sending false alarms to 911 dispatchers.
    • The problem became so bad it’s forcing ski resorts to put up signs asking iPhone 14 and Apple Watch owners to turn the feature off or update to the latest version of the software.
    • The dispatchers say that they very rarely see this problem with Android devices.

    Having to deal with false alarms is the last thing any 911 dispatcher or first responder needs. But that problem has seemingly ramped up ever since Apple released its Crash Detection feature. The most recent report of the issue appears to have Colorado dispatchers and responders increasingly frustrated.

    Apple introduced Crash Detection — a feature Android has had for a while — during the launch of the iPhone 14. The feature is exclusive to the iPhone 14 and the Apple Watch Ultra. When the feature thinks you’ve been in a crash, it sends an SOS to emergency services.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Q8Zr3yK
    via IFTTT
    A user enables Crash Detection on their Apple Watch.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • Skiers are triggering Apple’s Crash Detection feature and unintentionally sending false alarms to 911 dispatchers.
    • The problem became so bad it’s forcing ski resorts to put up signs asking iPhone 14 and Apple Watch owners to turn the feature off or update to the latest version of the software.
    • The dispatchers say that they very rarely see this problem with Android devices.

    Having to deal with false alarms is the last thing any 911 dispatcher or first responder needs. But that problem has seemingly ramped up ever since Apple released its Crash Detection feature. The most recent report of the issue appears to have Colorado dispatchers and responders increasingly frustrated.

    Apple introduced Crash Detection — a feature Android has had for a while — during the launch of the iPhone 14. The feature is exclusive to the iPhone 14 and the Apple Watch Ultra. When the feature thinks you’ve been in a crash, it sends an SOS to emergency services.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Q8Zr3yK
    via IFTTT

    Deal: Just $29.99 for a Microsoft Office lifetime subscription (ends soon!)

    0
    Microsoft Office Pro 2021 for Windows Deal
    Credit: Tech Deals

    This offer demonstrates that high-quality software doesn’t always come at a high cost. If you act quickly you can obtain lifetime access to Microsoft Office Pro 2021 for a one-time fee of $29.99 ($319 off).

    That deal is for Windows users, but Mac owners can enjoy almost exactly the same deal. Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021 is subject to the same price drop in this promotion, on offer for only $29.99 ($319 off)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/5c3peVM
    via IFTTT
    Microsoft Office Pro 2021 for Windows Deal
    Credit: Tech Deals

    This offer demonstrates that high-quality software doesn’t always come at a high cost. If you act quickly you can obtain lifetime access to Microsoft Office Pro 2021 for a one-time fee of $29.99 ($319 off).

    That deal is for Windows users, but Mac owners can enjoy almost exactly the same deal. Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021 is subject to the same price drop in this promotion, on offer for only $29.99 ($319 off)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/5c3peVM
    via IFTTT
     

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