Update, July 14, 2023 (5:20 AM ET): We’ve updated this OnePlus Open rumor hub with a new leak regarding the device’s launch date and software.
Update, July 14, 2023 (5:20 AM ET): We’ve updated this OnePlus Open rumor hub with a new leak regarding the device’s launch date and software.
Software updates are an important part of the smartphone experience, bringing new features, fixes, and other improvements to devices. Android phones often display a changelog for an update before you install it, but it looks like Google will show you more info before you bite the bullet.
Google is working on a so-called Android Upgrade Invite feature, as spotted by journalist Mishaal Rahman on Twitter. This is effectively a series of screens showcasing a pending update’s features, complete with a prompt to perform the update. You can get a better idea of the feature via the sample image below.
Software updates are an important part of the smartphone experience, bringing new features, fixes, and other improvements to devices. Android phones often display a changelog for an update before you install it, but it looks like Google will show you more info before you bite the bullet.
Google is working on a so-called Android Upgrade Invite feature, as spotted by journalist Mishaal Rahman on Twitter. This is effectively a series of screens showcasing a pending update’s features, complete with a prompt to perform the update. You can get a better idea of the feature via the sample image below.
Reddit is getting rid of its confusing awards and coins system, meaning users of the community platform can no longer spend real-world money to thank each other for their content. But the platform is promising that a “new direction for awarding” is under work, though we reckon we already have a fair clue on what that could be.
In an official announcement post, Reddit announced its decision to sunset the plethora of coins and awards that were present on the platform. These coins and awards were used in different ways by the community to recognize good contributions from other members.
Reddit is getting rid of its confusing awards and coins system, meaning users of the community platform can no longer spend real-world money to thank each other for their content. But the platform is promising that a “new direction for awarding” is under work, though we reckon we already have a fair clue on what that could be.
In an official announcement post, Reddit announced its decision to sunset the plethora of coins and awards that were present on the platform. These coins and awards were used in different ways by the community to recognize good contributions from other members.
Kyocera is no stranger to rugged phones thanks to its Duraforce line of handsets. Now, the company is back with a new rugged phone dubbed the Duraforce Pro 3.
Kyocera is no stranger to rugged phones thanks to its Duraforce line of handsets. Now, the company is back with a new rugged phone dubbed the Duraforce Pro 3.
When it comes to fast-charging phones, Samsung isn’t the fastest kid on the block by a long shot. The Galaxy S23 Plus and S23 Ultra find themselves restricted to 45W wired charging in a day and age where we have 240W super-fast charging phones on the market. Agreed that the latter might not be the norm or the need of the hour, but Samsung could definitely do with a charging upgrade for its flagships. If a fresh rumor is to be believed, that upgrade might come as soon as next year.
When it comes to fast-charging phones, Samsung isn’t the fastest kid on the block by a long shot. The Galaxy S23 Plus and S23 Ultra find themselves restricted to 45W wired charging in a day and age where we have 240W super-fast charging phones on the market. Agreed that the latter might not be the norm or the need of the hour, but Samsung could definitely do with a charging upgrade for its flagships. If a fresh rumor is to be believed, that upgrade might come as soon as next year.
Google’s YouTube depends on advertising revenue, which should come as no surprise if you’re regularly skipping two-minute ad breaks for products you have no interest in. Ads can be so pervasive that many people have turned to blockers to watch uninterrupted. More recently, however, Google has been testing warning messages threatening to limit web playback unless people disable blockers or pay for YouTube Premium. In this guide we’ll get you up to date on the situation, and whether or not you might be impacted.
People first started noticing warning messages in June 2023. On June 30, YouTube confirmed to Android Authority that a test was underway, and as of mid-July the test seems to be continuing. It’s not clear when the program might end or expand further.
Google’s YouTube depends on advertising revenue, which should come as no surprise if you’re regularly skipping two-minute ad breaks for products you have no interest in. Ads can be so pervasive that many people have turned to blockers to watch uninterrupted. More recently, however, Google has been testing warning messages threatening to limit web playback unless people disable blockers or pay for YouTube Premium. In this guide we’ll get you up to date on the situation, and whether or not you might be impacted.
People first started noticing warning messages in June 2023. On June 30, YouTube confirmed to Android Authority that a test was underway, and as of mid-July the test seems to be continuing. It’s not clear when the program might end or expand further.
When Google Bard launched earlier this year, it was limited to a small number of markets. However, it eventually expanded to 180 regions, with more expected to come in the near future. That future has arrived as Google is further opening up availability to its AI chatbot. And it looks like it will be getting some new features as well.
The Mountain View-based firm has announced that Bard is now accessible in more countries, including Brazil and across Europe. The company initially skipped the EU during its last expansion, seemingly due to regulatory concerns. Canada also missed out on the last expansion for the same reason, and it appears to still be out of the loop. Google has also updated Bard to support over 40 languages, adding Arabic, Chinese, German, Hindi, Spanish, and more.
When Google Bard launched earlier this year, it was limited to a small number of markets. However, it eventually expanded to 180 regions, with more expected to come in the near future. That future has arrived as Google is further opening up availability to its AI chatbot. And it looks like it will be getting some new features as well.
The Mountain View-based firm has announced that Bard is now accessible in more countries, including Brazil and across Europe. The company initially skipped the EU during its last expansion, seemingly due to regulatory concerns. Canada also missed out on the last expansion for the same reason, and it appears to still be out of the loop. Google has also updated Bard to support over 40 languages, adding Arabic, Chinese, German, Hindi, Spanish, and more.
Owners of Google TV devices or other Android TV OS devices can now watch free movies and TV shows thanks to The Roku Channel. It houses a library of over 80,000 free titles as well as exclusive Roku Originals like WEIRD: The Al Yankovic Story, Die Hart, and The Great American Baking Show.
Owners of Google TV devices or other Android TV OS devices can now watch free movies and TV shows thanks to The Roku Channel. It houses a library of over 80,000 free titles as well as exclusive Roku Originals like WEIRD: The Al Yankovic Story, Die Hart, and The Great American Baking Show.
VPN by Google One is getting an option to improve your experience with location-based services. If you subscribe to Google’s VPN, it will soon allow you to change your default IP address region from broad to local.
VPN by Google One is getting an option to improve your experience with location-based services. If you subscribe to Google’s VPN, it will soon allow you to change your default IP address region from broad to local.
While some device types have seen huge discounts in the Prime Day sales, the laptop deals have been relatively modest. But there are a few real gems out there, such as this 33% price drop on the Acer Swift 3. Dropping by $260 until midnight, the powerful and compact laptop is way cheaper than it’s ever previously been.
Acer Swift 3 Laptop for $539.99 ($260 off)
While some device types have seen huge discounts in the Prime Day sales, the laptop deals have been relatively modest. But there are a few real gems out there, such as this 33% price drop on the Acer Swift 3. Dropping by $260 until midnight, the powerful and compact laptop is way cheaper than it’s ever previously been.
Acer Swift 3 Laptop for $539.99 ($260 off)
While Google has a collection of messaging options such as Google Duo and and of course Google Messages, one you’re probably less familiar with is Google Chat. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of what it is and how to use it.
JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS
While Google has a collection of messaging options such as Google Duo and and of course Google Messages, one you’re probably less familiar with is Google Chat. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of what it is and how to use it.
JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS
Welcome to the Samsung Galaxy S21 update hub. Here you’ll find the latest information on updates to the Samsung Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Plus, and Galaxy S21 Ultra. We’ll detail the current software versions for each device and alert you if there’s a new update rolling out. Samsung usually pushes out updates to the entire series, but this may vary per variant and carrier.
All three Galaxy S21 series phones launched with Android 11 and Samsung’s One UI 3.1 skin on top. Samsung will offer four major Android OS updates to the Galaxy S21, S21 Plus, and S21 Ultra. The company also guarantees five years of security updates for all devices.
July 12, 2023: Samsung rolled out the July 2023 update to the Galaxy S21 series, starting in South America (h/t SamMobile). The update, which includes firmware version G99xBXXS9EWF3, fixes three critical security vulnerabilities and more than 50 high priority issues.
To check if the update is available for your device, head to Settings > Software update and tap on Download and install.
What Samsung Galaxy S21 update are you running? Let us know in the comments. Also, if you’ve spotted an OTA that we haven’t, tip us!
If you’re looking for another update, be sure to visit our Android 13 update tracker.
Welcome to the Samsung Galaxy S21 update hub. Here you’ll find the latest information on updates to the Samsung Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Plus, and Galaxy S21 Ultra. We’ll detail the current software versions for each device and alert you if there’s a new update rolling out. Samsung usually pushes out updates to the entire series, but this may vary per variant and carrier.
All three Galaxy S21 series phones launched with Android 11 and Samsung’s One UI 3.1 skin on top. Samsung will offer four major Android OS updates to the Galaxy S21, S21 Plus, and S21 Ultra. The company also guarantees five years of security updates for all devices.
July 12, 2023: Samsung rolled out the July 2023 update to the Galaxy S21 series, starting in South America (h/t SamMobile). The update, which includes firmware version G99xBXXS9EWF3, fixes three critical security vulnerabilities and more than 50 high priority issues.
To check if the update is available for your device, head to Settings > Software update and tap on Download and install.
What Samsung Galaxy S21 update are you running? Let us know in the comments. Also, if you’ve spotted an OTA that we haven’t, tip us!
If you’re looking for another update, be sure to visit our Android 13 update tracker.
The Nothing Phone 2 is finally out, and with it is the new software Nothing has been building for a while. Nothing OS 2.0 is currently only available on the Phone 2 but will eventually come to the Nothing Phone 1 in August. The latest version of the proprietary Android skin has added several new cosmetic and functional changes. That said, it remains completely bloat-free and maintains its ultra-clean aesthetic. The software is still based on Android 13, so don’t expect to see any new Android 14 features here just yet. Here’s a list of all the new Nothing OS 2.0 features you should know and care about.
The Nothing Phone 2 is finally out, and with it is the new software Nothing has been building for a while. Nothing OS 2.0 is currently only available on the Phone 2 but will eventually come to the Nothing Phone 1 in August. The latest version of the proprietary Android skin has added several new cosmetic and functional changes. That said, it remains completely bloat-free and maintains its ultra-clean aesthetic. The software is still based on Android 13, so don’t expect to see any new Android 14 features here just yet. Here’s a list of all the new Nothing OS 2.0 features you should know and care about.
Netflix has announced a new Profile Transfer feature for those who might have fallen victim to the platform’s recent password-sharing crackdown. Users can now transfer their Netflix profiles to an existing account instead of requiring a new account.
Netflix has announced a new Profile Transfer feature for those who might have fallen victim to the platform’s recent password-sharing crackdown. Users can now transfer their Netflix profiles to an existing account instead of requiring a new account.
Gamers are usually on the cutting edge of PC tech, whether it involves apps, specs, or accessories. But if you’ve got a Windows 10 machine that’s functioning just fine, there may not be any obvious reason to upgrade your operating system to Windows 11, apart from eliminating annoying marketing by Microsoft. There could even be potential drawbacks. So is worth making the leap, or should you hold out for Windows 12?
JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS
Gamers are usually on the cutting edge of PC tech, whether it involves apps, specs, or accessories. But if you’ve got a Windows 10 machine that’s functioning just fine, there may not be any obvious reason to upgrade your operating system to Windows 11, apart from eliminating annoying marketing by Microsoft. There could even be potential drawbacks. So is worth making the leap, or should you hold out for Windows 12?
JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS
Every year, Google launches a new version of the Android operating system. In 2023, we’re being treated to Android 14. Along with a new operating system comes a new Easter egg. In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about the Android 14 Easter egg!
If you want to know about the 2022 version, be sure to check out our Android 13 Easter egg hub. And, if you’d like to learn all about Android Easter eggs, we’ve got you covered there, too. For now, though, let’s dive into 2023’s secret Android surprise!
Every year, Google launches a new version of the Android operating system. In 2023, we’re being treated to Android 14. Along with a new operating system comes a new Easter egg. In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about the Android 14 Easter egg!
If you want to know about the 2022 version, be sure to check out our Android 13 Easter egg hub. And, if you’d like to learn all about Android Easter eggs, we’ve got you covered there, too. For now, though, let’s dive into 2023’s secret Android surprise!
The Roku Express (2022) is the cheapest way into the Roku ecosystem, and it just got even more affordable with a price drop to only $19 today ($11 off). The ultra-compact set-top box offers dual-band Wi-Fi and improved internal storage compared to previous models. It supports streaming services and the Roku Channel, providing many free live TV options. The device has a maximum streaming quality of 1080p, is compatible with Google Chromecast and Apple AirPlay for screen mirroring, and works with Google Home and Apple HomeKit for voice control.
Many other streaming devices and audio options are subject to similar discounts. Here are the highlights of the Roku deals:
The Roku Express (2022) is the cheapest way into the Roku ecosystem, and it just got even more affordable with a price drop to only $19 today ($11 off). The ultra-compact set-top box offers dual-band Wi-Fi and improved internal storage compared to previous models. It supports streaming services and the Roku Channel, providing many free live TV options. The device has a maximum streaming quality of 1080p, is compatible with Google Chromecast and Apple AirPlay for screen mirroring, and works with Google Home and Apple HomeKit for voice control.
Many other streaming devices and audio options are subject to similar discounts. Here are the highlights of the Roku deals:
Multi-line discounts were once reserved for postpaid plans from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Thankfully this practice has caught on in the prepaid world as well, with a variety of carriers offering family plans. One of the better-known options is the Google-owned Fi Wireless. In this guide, we take a look at the Google Fi family plan to see if it’s a good deal versus the competition.
Google offers three main plans: Flexible, Simply Unlimited, and Unlimited Plus. All three options can be added to a family plan, but there is no mixing and matching. In other words, all family members must be on the same plan type in order to qualify for family plan pricing.
Multi-line discounts were once reserved for postpaid plans from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Thankfully this practice has caught on in the prepaid world as well, with a variety of carriers offering family plans. One of the better-known options is the Google-owned Fi Wireless. In this guide, we take a look at the Google Fi family plan to see if it’s a good deal versus the competition.
Google offers three main plans: Flexible, Simply Unlimited, and Unlimited Plus. All three options can be added to a family plan, but there is no mixing and matching. In other words, all family members must be on the same plan type in order to qualify for family plan pricing.
If you haven’t heard, Google really, really wants you to sign up for YouTube Premium. The company makes direct requests to users constantly and is even toying with the idea of forcing Adblock users to either sign up or stop seeing YouTube videos at all.
Of course, lots of users just don’t want to sign up. One possible reason to avoid it is that they have heard the gripes of current users. Well, Google is open to hearing those YouTube Premium complaints right now. The company has opened an official complaints poll on Twitter.
If you haven’t heard, Google really, really wants you to sign up for YouTube Premium. The company makes direct requests to users constantly and is even toying with the idea of forcing Adblock users to either sign up or stop seeing YouTube videos at all.
Of course, lots of users just don’t want to sign up. One possible reason to avoid it is that they have heard the gripes of current users. Well, Google is open to hearing those YouTube Premium complaints right now. The company has opened an official complaints poll on Twitter.
Welcome to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 update hub. Here you’ll find the latest information on updates to the large foldable. We’ll detail the current software version for the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and alert you if there’s a new update rolling out. Samsung’s update release schedule usually varies slightly per variant and carrier.
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 launched with Android 12L and One UI 4.1.1. It has since been updated with Android 13 and One UI 5.1. Samsung will offer four major Android OS updates and five years of security patches for the device.
Welcome to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 update hub. Here you’ll find the latest information on updates to the large foldable. We’ll detail the current software version for the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and alert you if there’s a new update rolling out. Samsung’s update release schedule usually varies slightly per variant and carrier.
The Galaxy Z Fold 4 launched with Android 12L and One UI 4.1.1. It has since been updated with Android 13 and One UI 5.1. Samsung will offer four major Android OS updates and five years of security patches for the device.
The OnePlus 11 is seemingly a return to the brand’s affordable flagship ethos, bringing a reasonable $699 price tag and a smattering of flagship features. But what if $699 is too much for you? Well, this Prime Day pricing on the Android phone might interest you.
Yes, the OnePlus 11 is at its lowest price ever on Amazon ahead of the main Prime Day sale, taking it down to just $599. And you’re getting plenty of phone at this reduced price point.
The OnePlus 11 is seemingly a return to the brand’s affordable flagship ethos, bringing a reasonable $699 price tag and a smattering of flagship features. But what if $699 is too much for you? Well, this Prime Day pricing on the Android phone might interest you.
Yes, the OnePlus 11 is at its lowest price ever on Amazon ahead of the main Prime Day sale, taking it down to just $599. And you’re getting plenty of phone at this reduced price point.
Microsoft stunned the tech world in 2021 when it announced Windows 11 would support Android apps. However, when the feature finally rolled out, the variety of apps was quite small, thanks to the Amazon Appstore being necessary for integration with Windows. On top of this, Amazon and Microsoft limited access to the store to a small group of developers.
Today, though, Amazon quietly removed the prohibition of certain developers pushing Android apps to the Appstore for Windows. In an update to its developer page (h/t XDA-Developers), Amazon has clarified that any developer can submit an app. When you combine this with previous news that Microsoft would also allow any developer to submit apps for Windows support, the floodgates are officially open. As it stands now, there is nothing stopping any developer from bringing an Android app to Windows.
Microsoft stunned the tech world in 2021 when it announced Windows 11 would support Android apps. However, when the feature finally rolled out, the variety of apps was quite small, thanks to the Amazon Appstore being necessary for integration with Windows. On top of this, Amazon and Microsoft limited access to the store to a small group of developers.
Today, though, Amazon quietly removed the prohibition of certain developers pushing Android apps to the Appstore for Windows. In an update to its developer page (h/t XDA-Developers), Amazon has clarified that any developer can submit an app. When you combine this with previous news that Microsoft would also allow any developer to submit apps for Windows support, the floodgates are officially open. As it stands now, there is nothing stopping any developer from bringing an Android app to Windows.
The Nothing Phone 2 has already made a name for itself thanks to the company’s hype engine. This is also the first time Nothing will launch a smartphone in the US — a device with flagship-grade specs as opposed to the mid-range Nothing Phone 1. Of course, the new Nothing phone will also be available in other markets besides North America, including the UK, Asia, and Europe.
The launch event for the Nothing Phone 2 will be broadcasted live on July 11 at 11:00 A.M. ET. You can catch the livestream using the YouTube player embedded above.
The Nothing Phone 2 has already made a name for itself thanks to the company’s hype engine. This is also the first time Nothing will launch a smartphone in the US — a device with flagship-grade specs as opposed to the mid-range Nothing Phone 1. Of course, the new Nothing phone will also be available in other markets besides North America, including the UK, Asia, and Europe.
The launch event for the Nothing Phone 2 will be broadcasted live on July 11 at 11:00 A.M. ET. You can catch the livestream using the YouTube player embedded above.
The Fitbit Charge 5 is a good fitness tracker, and it makes it to our list of best fitness trackers that readers should buy. However, review assessment of products takes into account the state of the product at the time of review. There are instances where products improve significantly after launch, and there are instances where they go in the other direction thanks to updates. The latest update for the Fitbit Charge 5 is reportedly bricking the fitness tracker for many users, so you may want to hold off on updating to the newest firmware.
Fitbit announced the latest v194.61 update for the Charge 5 with an extensive changelog. There are new clock faces, support for global language characters and right-to-left text notifications, availability of all exercise modes in the Exercise app, and general bug fixes and improvements.
The Fitbit Charge 5 is a good fitness tracker, and it makes it to our list of best fitness trackers that readers should buy. However, review assessment of products takes into account the state of the product at the time of review. There are instances where products improve significantly after launch, and there are instances where they go in the other direction thanks to updates. The latest update for the Fitbit Charge 5 is reportedly bricking the fitness tracker for many users, so you may want to hold off on updating to the newest firmware.
Fitbit announced the latest v194.61 update for the Charge 5 with an extensive changelog. There are new clock faces, support for global language characters and right-to-left text notifications, availability of all exercise modes in the Exercise app, and general bug fixes and improvements.
We’ve posted loads of exclusive Google Pixel 8 series leaks already thanks to tipster Kamila Wojciechowska. One missing piece of the puzzle is pricing, but another leaker may have given us some insight.
Indian tipster Yogesh Brar has tweeted apparent Pixel 8 pricing, claiming that the vanilla model will retail for $649 or $699. By comparison, the base Pixel 7 set you back $599 for the base model, so we’re looking at a $50 price hike at the bare minimum.
We’ve posted loads of exclusive Google Pixel 8 series leaks already thanks to tipster Kamila Wojciechowska. One missing piece of the puzzle is pricing, but another leaker may have given us some insight.
Indian tipster Yogesh Brar has tweeted apparent Pixel 8 pricing, claiming that the vanilla model will retail for $649 or $699. By comparison, the base Pixel 7 set you back $599 for the base model, so we’re looking at a $50 price hike at the bare minimum.
Update: July 9, 2023 (11:35 PM ET): Xiaomi has launched the Pad 6 tablet in Europe at a very attractive price. The tablet is now available in the region in three color options: Gravity Gray, Gold, and Mist Blue. The 6GB RAM and 128GB storage version starts from €399 (~$437), the 8GB+128GB option comes at €429 (~$469), and the 8GB+256GB variant is priced at €449 (~$491). You can read more about the Xiaomi Pad 6 in the original article below. Unfortunately, Xiaomi hasn’t launched the Pad 6 Pro with the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chip in Europe.
Original article: April 18, 2023 (9:15 AM ET): Xiaomi has offered its Pad tablets for years now, being among the best Android tablets on the market. Now, the company has announced the Xiaomi Pad 6 series in China, marking the latest entry in its long-running series.
Update: July 9, 2023 (11:35 PM ET): Xiaomi has launched the Pad 6 tablet in Europe at a very attractive price. The tablet is now available in the region in three color options: Gravity Gray, Gold, and Mist Blue. The 6GB RAM and 128GB storage version starts from €399 (~$437), the 8GB+128GB option comes at €429 (~$469), and the 8GB+256GB variant is priced at €449 (~$491). You can read more about the Xiaomi Pad 6 in the original article below. Unfortunately, Xiaomi hasn’t launched the Pad 6 Pro with the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chip in Europe.
Original article: April 18, 2023 (9:15 AM ET): Xiaomi has offered its Pad tablets for years now, being among the best Android tablets on the market. Now, the company has announced the Xiaomi Pad 6 series in China, marking the latest entry in its long-running series.
Repairable headphones aren’t new. Audio stalwarts like Sennheiser have offered replaceable parts for ages. DIYers have been tinkering just as long. However, Fairphone is doing something unique with the Fairbuds XL headphones. (Yes, headphones, not earbuds). These wireless cans wed the right-to-repair movement with sustainability. They don’t look too shabby, either.
I’ve used the Fairbuds XL active noise canceling (ANC) headphones for a week. In that time, I’ve grown excited about the future of modular headsets. At present, though, there are some trade-offs to repairable, sustainable headphones.
Repairable headphones aren’t new. Audio stalwarts like Sennheiser have offered replaceable parts for ages. DIYers have been tinkering just as long. However, Fairphone is doing something unique with the Fairbuds XL headphones. (Yes, headphones, not earbuds). These wireless cans wed the right-to-repair movement with sustainability. They don’t look too shabby, either.
I’ve used the Fairbuds XL active noise canceling (ANC) headphones for a week. In that time, I’ve grown excited about the future of modular headsets. At present, though, there are some trade-offs to repairable, sustainable headphones.
Google has long had a reputation for offering the best camera phones, with the Pixel 7 Pro being the most recent high-end example of this. The late 2022 flagship brought excellent all-around image quality, great zoomed-in snaps via the 48MP 5x camera, and some nifty extra modes.
The Pixel 7 Pro isn’t perfect, though, and other flagships are catching up quickly, even surpassing it. A recent Android Authority leak has revealed the Pixel 8 series camera specs and it turns out that these successors could be well equipped to deal with some of my Pixel 7 Pro complaints.
Google has long had a reputation for offering the best camera phones, with the Pixel 7 Pro being the most recent high-end example of this. The late 2022 flagship brought excellent all-around image quality, great zoomed-in snaps via the 48MP 5x camera, and some nifty extra modes.
The Pixel 7 Pro isn’t perfect, though, and other flagships are catching up quickly, even surpassing it. A recent Android Authority leak has revealed the Pixel 8 series camera specs and it turns out that these successors could be well equipped to deal with some of my Pixel 7 Pro complaints.
It’s easy to find yourself drawn into a mobile ecosystem without thinking about it. Samsung users are pretty content with their expansive Galaxy, Pixel users are closer to a complete setup than ever, and Apple users, well, we all know how Apple’s walled garden locks you in as much as it locks others out. What happens when you dabble in different ecosystems to get the best of multiple worlds? What happens when you introduce the newest 15-inch version of the M2-powered MacBook Air into a staunch Android user’s personal and work life? I upgraded my laptop to find out.
It’s easy to find yourself drawn into a mobile ecosystem without thinking about it. Samsung users are pretty content with their expansive Galaxy, Pixel users are closer to a complete setup than ever, and Apple users, well, we all know how Apple’s walled garden locks you in as much as it locks others out. What happens when you dabble in different ecosystems to get the best of multiple worlds? What happens when you introduce the newest 15-inch version of the M2-powered MacBook Air into a staunch Android user’s personal and work life? I upgraded my laptop to find out.
As tablets have become larger and more powerful, the leading examples have all crept closer and closer toward the realm of laptops in terms of design and functionality. The Google Pixel Tablet bucks that trend entirely.
As tablets have become larger and more powerful, the leading examples have all crept closer and closer toward the realm of laptops in terms of design and functionality. The Google Pixel Tablet bucks that trend entirely.
Fast charging is the linchpin that helps our phones survive a day of heavy use and keeps them in the game when batteries age and can’t make it through the evening. Yet despite over a decade of development, few, if any, smartphone brands seem to nail the perfect fast-charging formula.
Whether you’re looking at a budget or flagship smartphone, many are either too slow to charge, are limited to proprietary standards, or can’t sustain their peak power capabilities for more than a few minutes without heating up. Surely building a phone capable of doing it all shouldn’t be this difficult?
Fast charging is the linchpin that helps our phones survive a day of heavy use and keeps them in the game when batteries age and can’t make it through the evening. Yet despite over a decade of development, few, if any, smartphone brands seem to nail the perfect fast-charging formula.
Whether you’re looking at a budget or flagship smartphone, many are either too slow to charge, are limited to proprietary standards, or can’t sustain their peak power capabilities for more than a few minutes without heating up. Surely building a phone capable of doing it all shouldn’t be this difficult?
Welcome to The Weekly Authority, the Android Authority newsletter that breaks down the top Android and tech news from the week. The 252nd edition is here, with Threads launch news and impressions, an official Galaxy Unpacked launch date, more exclusive Pixel 8 info, and more.
Hadlee here this time, standing in for a sick Paula (get well soon!). This weekend, I plan to eat all the unhealthy things, play some games, and then try to make up for that by going for a forest walk and a quick cycle.
Welcome to The Weekly Authority, the Android Authority newsletter that breaks down the top Android and tech news from the week. The 252nd edition is here, with Threads launch news and impressions, an official Galaxy Unpacked launch date, more exclusive Pixel 8 info, and more.
Hadlee here this time, standing in for a sick Paula (get well soon!). This weekend, I plan to eat all the unhealthy things, play some games, and then try to make up for that by going for a forest walk and a quick cycle.
While there are a lot of media streaming devices on the market, the chief rivalry in the budget space is arguably between Roku and Google’s Chromecast. You can have a great experience with either platform, so here’s what you need to know before making the leap.
On the surface, Roku seems to have a gigantic lineup compared with Google, but most of its standalone devices (we’re ignoring integrated Roku or Google TVs, here) are just variants of a few core products.
While there are a lot of media streaming devices on the market, the chief rivalry in the budget space is arguably between Roku and Google’s Chromecast. You can have a great experience with either platform, so here’s what you need to know before making the leap.
On the surface, Roku seems to have a gigantic lineup compared with Google, but most of its standalone devices (we’re ignoring integrated Roku or Google TVs, here) are just variants of a few core products.
As much as video service giants would like to pretend we’re always online and perfectly happy with streaming, there are plenty of times when people want something saved offline — for a trip, say, or to ensure a favorite video doesn’t suddenly vanish (we’re looking at you, Max). If you’ve got Google Chrome on your desktop or laptop, there are a number of video downloader extensions to choose from.
We’re only going to recommend a trio of options here, not the least because every extension is aiming towards the same goal. Think of this list more as a set of backup choices — downloaders can easily come and go given their questionable legality. In fact, Google tries to block extensions from downloading from YouTube, though the reality is that it’s not hard to bypass those limits.
As much as video service giants would like to pretend we’re always online and perfectly happy with streaming, there are plenty of times when people want something saved offline — for a trip, say, or to ensure a favorite video doesn’t suddenly vanish (we’re looking at you, Max). If you’ve got Google Chrome on your desktop or laptop, there are a number of video downloader extensions to choose from.
We’re only going to recommend a trio of options here, not the least because every extension is aiming towards the same goal. Think of this list more as a set of backup choices — downloaders can easily come and go given their questionable legality. In fact, Google tries to block extensions from downloading from YouTube, though the reality is that it’s not hard to bypass those limits.
International roaming used to be something only offered by the big three postpaid carriers. Thankfully more prepaid carriers have embraced international calling in recent years. Chief among these options is Google Fi Wireless. In this guide, we explain how Google Fi international roaming works. We’ll also discuss the costs, if it’s worth it, and if there are any worthwhile alternatives.
Google Fi is known for its exceptional international access. The exact benefits will vary depending on what plan you get. Fi Wireless Unlimited Plus has the best international perks out of all the plans. It includes unlimited talking, text, and data in the US, Mexico, Canada, and over 200 other countries.
International roaming used to be something only offered by the big three postpaid carriers. Thankfully more prepaid carriers have embraced international calling in recent years. Chief among these options is Google Fi Wireless. In this guide, we explain how Google Fi international roaming works. We’ll also discuss the costs, if it’s worth it, and if there are any worthwhile alternatives.
Google Fi is known for its exceptional international access. The exact benefits will vary depending on what plan you get. Fi Wireless Unlimited Plus has the best international perks out of all the plans. It includes unlimited talking, text, and data in the US, Mexico, Canada, and over 200 other countries.
Are you looking to find the best peer-to-peer money transfer app? Cash App and Venmo are two of the most popular ones, thanks to their ease of use, easy set-ups, and much more casual nature. Which is the best option, though? In this Cash App vs Venmo comparison, we’ll go over each platform’s features, fees, business offerings, and more. Let’s get right to the money.
Before digging deeper, let’s look at some of the base differences between Cash App vs Venmo.
Are you looking to find the best peer-to-peer money transfer app? Cash App and Venmo are two of the most popular ones, thanks to their ease of use, easy set-ups, and much more casual nature. Which is the best option, though? In this Cash App vs Venmo comparison, we’ll go over each platform’s features, fees, business offerings, and more. Let’s get right to the money.
Before digging deeper, let’s look at some of the base differences between Cash App vs Venmo.
On a day-to-day basis, there’s not much reason to “close” apps on an iPhone 13. When you stop using an iOS app, it goes into a kind of suspended animation, waiting for you to summon it again. Many people believe that having apps open all the time drains their battery and/or performance, but because of Apple’s design, that’s a myth.
It’s genuinely worth force-closing an app if it’s sluggish or freezing, though. Here’s how to close an app on the iPhone 13.
On a day-to-day basis, there’s not much reason to “close” apps on an iPhone 13. When you stop using an iOS app, it goes into a kind of suspended animation, waiting for you to summon it again. Many people believe that having apps open all the time drains their battery and/or performance, but because of Apple’s design, that’s a myth.
It’s genuinely worth force-closing an app if it’s sluggish or freezing, though. Here’s how to close an app on the iPhone 13.
Wear OS 4 is expected to come out later this year. Google released a developer preview in May, but it will be a while before the OS is officially released. But if you want to get your hands on the OS before the rest of the public, you may get your chance through a Wear OS Beta Program.
Discovered by 9to5Google, the words “Wear OS Beta Program” have appeared in the page source of the Android Beta for Pixel website. The page source also appears to name two devices: the Pixel Watch Bluetooth/Wi-Fi and Pixel Watch 4G LTE and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi.
Wear OS 4 is expected to come out later this year. Google released a developer preview in May, but it will be a while before the OS is officially released. But if you want to get your hands on the OS before the rest of the public, you may get your chance through a Wear OS Beta Program.
Discovered by 9to5Google, the words “Wear OS Beta Program” have appeared in the page source of the Android Beta for Pixel website. The page source also appears to name two devices: the Pixel Watch Bluetooth/Wi-Fi and Pixel Watch 4G LTE and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi.
A new social network is out, and it comes from none other than Meta, the same company responsible for Facebook, Instagram, and more. The new app is called Threads. Today we’ll tell you all about what it is, how to use Threads, and more. Let’s jump right in.
QUICK ANSWER
A new social network is out, and it comes from none other than Meta, the same company responsible for Facebook, Instagram, and more. The new app is called Threads. Today we’ll tell you all about what it is, how to use Threads, and more. Let’s jump right in.
QUICK ANSWER
When the iPhone 14 launched back in September 2022, European markets were hit with a price increase of up to £150 in the UK and €200 in various EU markets. While the US was lucky enough to be spared from this price jump, it looks like that luck may have run out for the upcoming generation. Or at least for any US consumer looking to pick up the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
According to 9to5Mac, Jeff Pu of Haitong International Tech Research said he expects the iPhone 15 series to go into mass production in August. In addition to this claim, Pu also warns that we could see Apple increase the price of the Pro Max model. The iPhone 14 Pro Max launched at $1,099, but Pu believes the iPhone 15 Pro Max will sell above that.
When the iPhone 14 launched back in September 2022, European markets were hit with a price increase of up to £150 in the UK and €200 in various EU markets. While the US was lucky enough to be spared from this price jump, it looks like that luck may have run out for the upcoming generation. Or at least for any US consumer looking to pick up the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
According to 9to5Mac, Jeff Pu of Haitong International Tech Research said he expects the iPhone 15 series to go into mass production in August. In addition to this claim, Pu also warns that we could see Apple increase the price of the Pro Max model. The iPhone 14 Pro Max launched at $1,099, but Pu believes the iPhone 15 Pro Max will sell above that.
Mint Mobile is one of the most popular prepaid carriers out there, largely because of its aggressive marketing and its association with Ryan Reynolds. If you’re thinking about switching to Mint Mobile, you’ll want to know how to transfer your number to Mint Mobile. Thankfully the whole process is pretty easy.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Mint Mobile is one of the most popular prepaid carriers out there, largely because of its aggressive marketing and its association with Ryan Reynolds. If you’re thinking about switching to Mint Mobile, you’ll want to know how to transfer your number to Mint Mobile. Thankfully the whole process is pretty easy.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Google has rolled out the July security update for all Pixel devices running Android 13. The newly launched Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold also get the update love from Google.
Google has rolled out the July security update for all Pixel devices running Android 13. The newly launched Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold also get the update love from Google.
Google has rolled out the July security update for all Pixel devices running Android 13. The newly launched Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold also get the update love from Google.
Google has rolled out the July security update for all Pixel devices running Android 13. The newly launched Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold also get the update love from Google.
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