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  • Is a Google Fi Wireless family plan worth the switch?

    0
    Google Fi Wireless logo on smartphone with SIM card and SIM ejector next to it Stock photo 2
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

    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.

    What is included in a Google Fi family plan?

    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. Be aware that in early 2024 Google Fi raised its pricing for the first time in a while for Simply Unlimited families greater than 3 members in size, though even with the higher pricing it remains arguably the most flexible and affordable carrier in the US.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/htw0LBG
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    Google Fi Wireless logo on smartphone with SIM card and SIM ejector next to it Stock photo 2
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

    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.

    What is included in a Google Fi family plan?

    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. Be aware that in early 2024 Google Fi raised its pricing for the first time in a while for Simply Unlimited families greater than 3 members in size, though even with the higher pricing it remains arguably the most flexible and affordable carrier in the US.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/htw0LBG
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    The best foldable phones you can buy right now

    0

    While the concept of foldable phones has been around for a while, the first modern foldable smartphones didn’t actually surface until 2018. A year later, Samsung entered the scene, quickly becoming the biggest player and really the only major option in the US. Thankfully, that has changed recently with Google, Motorola, and even OnePlus helping to push foldables to new heights in 2023. If you’re looking for the best foldable phone, you have more options than ever before. This article will examine the current foldable phones on the market and whether or not they would be a great fit for you.

    The best foldable phones: At a glance

    • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: If you’re looking for the most established tablet hybrid choice, the Z Fold 5 is a beast with tons of optimized features that help take advantage of its unique displays.
    • Google Pixel Fold: The Pixel Fold might not be as polished as the Z Fold 5, but for fans of Google’s vision for Android, it’s an easy choice. It’s also an excellent camera that produces truer-to-life results than the Z Fold 5.
    • OnePlus Open: The first OnePlus foldable is a bit too expensive considering it’s less durable than many of its competitors but its unique Canvas UI helps make up for its minor shortcomings.
    • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: Not all foldables are designed to turn into tablets. Looking for a flip phone experience? Samsung delivers the gold standard here, adding a bigger flex window than ever before.
    • Motorola Razr Plus:The Razr Plus marks the first foldable flip phone to pose a serious challenge to the Flip in the United States. While it may not be perfect, its affordability and superior performance in certain tasks, such as running apps on its outer display, make it a noteworthy contender.

    Not sure what you’re looking for in a foldable or if they are even a good fit? We have a guide on how to find the right foldable phones at the bottom of this page (hit the jump link to go there now).



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/ydR64qW
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    While the concept of foldable phones has been around for a while, the first modern foldable smartphones didn’t actually surface until 2018. A year later, Samsung entered the scene, quickly becoming the biggest player and really the only major option in the US. Thankfully, that has changed recently with Google, Motorola, and even OnePlus helping to push foldables to new heights in 2023. If you’re looking for the best foldable phone, you have more options than ever before. This article will examine the current foldable phones on the market and whether or not they would be a great fit for you.

    The best foldable phones: At a glance

    • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: If you’re looking for the most established tablet hybrid choice, the Z Fold 5 is a beast with tons of optimized features that help take advantage of its unique displays.
    • Google Pixel Fold: The Pixel Fold might not be as polished as the Z Fold 5, but for fans of Google’s vision for Android, it’s an easy choice. It’s also an excellent camera that produces truer-to-life results than the Z Fold 5.
    • OnePlus Open: The first OnePlus foldable is a bit too expensive considering it’s less durable than many of its competitors but its unique Canvas UI helps make up for its minor shortcomings.
    • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: Not all foldables are designed to turn into tablets. Looking for a flip phone experience? Samsung delivers the gold standard here, adding a bigger flex window than ever before.
    • Motorola Razr Plus:The Razr Plus marks the first foldable flip phone to pose a serious challenge to the Flip in the United States. While it may not be perfect, its affordability and superior performance in certain tasks, such as running apps on its outer display, make it a noteworthy contender.

    Not sure what you’re looking for in a foldable or if they are even a good fit? We have a guide on how to find the right foldable phones at the bottom of this page (hit the jump link to go there now).



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    First price drop on the 2024 MacBook Air

    0

    With Apple’s thrifty approach to discounts, we expected to wait a lot more than a few weeks before seeing a deal on the 2024 MacBook Air. We’re happy to have been proved wrong, with the base model of the 13-inch laptop already showing a $75 price drop on Amazon.

    2024 Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M3, 8GB, 256GB) for $1,024 ($75 off)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/sSYxfJn
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    With Apple’s thrifty approach to discounts, we expected to wait a lot more than a few weeks before seeing a deal on the 2024 MacBook Air. We’re happy to have been proved wrong, with the base model of the 13-inch laptop already showing a $75 price drop on Amazon.

    2024 Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M3, 8GB, 256GB) for $1,024 ($75 off)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/sSYxfJn
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    Google removes Pixel 6a from official store, pushes Pixel 7a instead

    0
    • This week, Google removed the public listing for the Google Pixel 6a at the Google Store.
    • Even if you try to visit the URL directly, it forwards you to the Pixel 7a listing.
    • This move happened as the expected Pixel 8a launch drew near.

    In 2022, Google launched the first budget phone in its refreshed Pixel line-up, an era that began with the Pixel 6. The Google Pixel 6a, as its name suggests, took the design and primary specs from the Pixel 6 but shaved off the premium features to keep the price lower. Since then, Google’s launched its successor, the Pixel 7a.

    At some point this week, though, Google has removed the Pixel 6a from the official Google Store (via Droid-Life). The phone does not appear on any pages and if you try to visit its previous URL, the site simply auto-forwards you to the listing for the newer, better Pixel 7a.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/p1rbflO
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    • This week, Google removed the public listing for the Google Pixel 6a at the Google Store.
    • Even if you try to visit the URL directly, it forwards you to the Pixel 7a listing.
    • This move happened as the expected Pixel 8a launch drew near.

    In 2022, Google launched the first budget phone in its refreshed Pixel line-up, an era that began with the Pixel 6. The Google Pixel 6a, as its name suggests, took the design and primary specs from the Pixel 6 but shaved off the premium features to keep the price lower. Since then, Google’s launched its successor, the Pixel 7a.

    At some point this week, though, Google has removed the Pixel 6a from the official Google Store (via Droid-Life). The phone does not appear on any pages and if you try to visit its previous URL, the site simply auto-forwards you to the listing for the newer, better Pixel 7a.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/p1rbflO
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    Samsung secretly launches its cheapest S-series tablet for 2024

    0
    Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 screen at angle with S Pen 1
    • The Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024) has been listed on Samsung’s Romanian website.
    • Most of the tablet’s specs and design remain unchanged from its 2022 predecessor.
    • The Tab S6 Lite 2024 features a new processor and comes with S Pen support.

    Samsung already offers some of the best affordable Android tablets on the market, and it seems it’s not stopping there. The company has quietly launched a refreshed version of its popular budget tablet — the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite — now called the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024).

    The original Tab S6 Lite debuted in 2020 and received a refresh in 2022. While rumors of a second refresh for the Tab S6 Lite had been circulating, it seemed absurd that Samsung would stick to a 4-year-old naming convention for a new tablet. However, Samsung’s Romanian website — first spotted by Gizmochina — has now officially listed the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024).



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Ufiv2M7
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    Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 screen at angle with S Pen 1
    • The Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024) has been listed on Samsung’s Romanian website.
    • Most of the tablet’s specs and design remain unchanged from its 2022 predecessor.
    • The Tab S6 Lite 2024 features a new processor and comes with S Pen support.

    Samsung already offers some of the best affordable Android tablets on the market, and it seems it’s not stopping there. The company has quietly launched a refreshed version of its popular budget tablet — the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite — now called the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024).

    The original Tab S6 Lite debuted in 2020 and received a refresh in 2022. While rumors of a second refresh for the Tab S6 Lite had been circulating, it seemed absurd that Samsung would stick to a 4-year-old naming convention for a new tablet. However, Samsung’s Romanian website — first spotted by Gizmochina — has now officially listed the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024).



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Ufiv2M7
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    T-Mobile unveils a “Secret Baseball Button” alongside free MLB TV subscription

    0
    T Mobile logo
    Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority
    • Starting March 26th, T-Mobile customers can claim their free year of MLB.TV subscription (valued at $149.99).
    • T-Mobile also introduced a Secret Baseball Button, which lets you switch between MLB.TV and a fake video call screen with one click.
    • Perfect for discreet Baseball viewing sessions at work, T-Mobile is offering anyone a chance to win the Secret Baseball Button.

    Just in time for MLB Opening Day, T-Mobile is swinging for the fences by announcing two baseball-themed offerings for its customers. First up is a homerun: another year of free subscription to MLB.TV, valued at $149.99. This perk will be available starting tomorrow and will run through April 1st. T-Mobile customers can claim their subscription through T-Mobile Tuesdays in the T Life app.

    But T-Mobile isn’t stopping there. To add a touch of playful (and perhaps slightly dubious) workplace fun, it’s introducing a “Secret Baseball Button.” This limited-edition device connects to your laptop via Bluetooth and allows for a one-click switch between watching MLB.TV and a screen resembling a work video call.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Zui97NU
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    T Mobile logo
    Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority
    • Starting March 26th, T-Mobile customers can claim their free year of MLB.TV subscription (valued at $149.99).
    • T-Mobile also introduced a Secret Baseball Button, which lets you switch between MLB.TV and a fake video call screen with one click.
    • Perfect for discreet Baseball viewing sessions at work, T-Mobile is offering anyone a chance to win the Secret Baseball Button.

    Just in time for MLB Opening Day, T-Mobile is swinging for the fences by announcing two baseball-themed offerings for its customers. First up is a homerun: another year of free subscription to MLB.TV, valued at $149.99. This perk will be available starting tomorrow and will run through April 1st. T-Mobile customers can claim their subscription through T-Mobile Tuesdays in the T Life app.

    But T-Mobile isn’t stopping there. To add a touch of playful (and perhaps slightly dubious) workplace fun, it’s introducing a “Secret Baseball Button.” This limited-edition device connects to your laptop via Bluetooth and allows for a one-click switch between watching MLB.TV and a screen resembling a work video call.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Zui97NU
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    Telegram’s new feature gives you free Premium subscriptions, but it’s a privacy nightmare

    0
    Telegram app edited
    Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority
    • Telegram is reportedly giving away Telegram Premium subscriptions to some users.
    • These users have to let Telegram use their phone number to send one-time PINs via SMS.
    • Participants need to pay any carrier fees, while the program exposes the phone numbers of all parties involved.

    Telegram is probably the most popular alternative to WhatsApp, often bringing innovative features to the table before WhatsApp. Now, it looks like the company is giving away Telegram Premium to a few users, but this initiative has plenty of downsides.

    The company has launched a so-called Peer-To-Peer Login Program (P2PL) on Android, according to the Telegram Info English channel and the firm’s updated terms of service. This program sees Telegram using your phone number as a relay to send one-time PINs (OTPs) to fellow users via SMS so they can log in to the messaging app.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/XFN3TD5
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    Telegram app edited
    Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority
    • Telegram is reportedly giving away Telegram Premium subscriptions to some users.
    • These users have to let Telegram use their phone number to send one-time PINs via SMS.
    • Participants need to pay any carrier fees, while the program exposes the phone numbers of all parties involved.

    Telegram is probably the most popular alternative to WhatsApp, often bringing innovative features to the table before WhatsApp. Now, it looks like the company is giving away Telegram Premium to a few users, but this initiative has plenty of downsides.

    The company has launched a so-called Peer-To-Peer Login Program (P2PL) on Android, according to the Telegram Info English channel and the firm’s updated terms of service. This program sees Telegram using your phone number as a relay to send one-time PINs (OTPs) to fellow users via SMS so they can log in to the messaging app.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/XFN3TD5
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    Download these travel wallpapers for your phone

    0

    Are you looking forward to your next vacation? Maybe you need some motivation to work harder. I like to have images that remind me of my goals, and you can set these on your phone to remind yourself of the days to come. To keep you inspired, we have put together a nice collection of travel wallpapers for your phone.

    Download these travel wallpapers for your phone

    Don’t start packing your bags quite yet! We need to tell you how things work with these wallpaper posts first. The image previews you see below are for demonstration purposes only. These files have been compressed and optimized for faster website performance, so the quality isn’t as good. Instead, you should download them using the button right below the previews. You will find the full-resolution pictures in there.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/ns7T2CV
    via IFTTT

    Are you looking forward to your next vacation? Maybe you need some motivation to work harder. I like to have images that remind me of my goals, and you can set these on your phone to remind yourself of the days to come. To keep you inspired, we have put together a nice collection of travel wallpapers for your phone.

    Download these travel wallpapers for your phone

    Don’t start packing your bags quite yet! We need to tell you how things work with these wallpaper posts first. The image previews you see below are for demonstration purposes only. These files have been compressed and optimized for faster website performance, so the quality isn’t as good. Instead, you should download them using the button right below the previews. You will find the full-resolution pictures in there.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/ns7T2CV
    via IFTTT

    It’s only taken 17 years: Apple could finally offer this Android home screen feature on iOS 18

    0

    apple iphone 14 plus home screen

    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • Apple will reportedly take inspiration from Android for home screen customization on iOS 18.
    • The company could apparently let users create blank spaces and rows between app icons. 
    • Android has offered this option since its inception back in 2008.

    Android and iOS have traded features with each other for a while now, and it looks like Apple could grab a feature from Android phones for the company’s iOS 18 update.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/TbQvMlW
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    apple iphone 14 plus home screen

    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • Apple will reportedly take inspiration from Android for home screen customization on iOS 18.
    • The company could apparently let users create blank spaces and rows between app icons. 
    • Android has offered this option since its inception back in 2008.

    Android and iOS have traded features with each other for a while now, and it looks like Apple could grab a feature from Android phones for the company’s iOS 18 update.



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

    First chance to pick up the Meta Quest 2 for just $199

    0

    The weekend may have made you realize you need to expand your gaming options. Or even your fitness options. Either way, the Meta Quest 2 is a solution. And, thanks to the fact the Amazon Big Spring Sale still has a day to run, you can get it for an all-time low price right now of just $199. That’s $100 off retail and less than half the price of the Meta Quest 3.

    Meta Quest 2 for $199 ($100 off)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/drYPmqc
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    The weekend may have made you realize you need to expand your gaming options. Or even your fitness options. Either way, the Meta Quest 2 is a solution. And, thanks to the fact the Amazon Big Spring Sale still has a day to run, you can get it for an all-time low price right now of just $199. That’s $100 off retail and less than half the price of the Meta Quest 3.

    Meta Quest 2 for $199 ($100 off)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/drYPmqc
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    5 months later, I still hate the Pixel’s hidden brightness and shadows sliders

    0
    google pixel 8 pro camera manual controls 2
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    It’s been a little over five months since I first got my hands on the Google Pixel 8 Pro and shot my first photo with it. At the time, I immediately noticed one infuriating change in the Google Camera‘s interface that put the brightness, shadows, and temperature sliders behind the settings/adjustments button instead of keeping them available at all times on the screen.

    And, as you can surmise from the title of this article, I still hate that change five months in. I thought I’d get used to it and start tapping the settings button more often, but really, no. That’s not what happened.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/3LNtmHj
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    google pixel 8 pro camera manual controls 2
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    It’s been a little over five months since I first got my hands on the Google Pixel 8 Pro and shot my first photo with it. At the time, I immediately noticed one infuriating change in the Google Camera‘s interface that put the brightness, shadows, and temperature sliders behind the settings/adjustments button instead of keeping them available at all times on the screen.

    And, as you can surmise from the title of this article, I still hate that change five months in. I thought I’d get used to it and start tapping the settings button more often, but really, no. That’s not what happened.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/3LNtmHj
    via IFTTT

    Do you know how terrible the early smartphone era was?

    0
    Nokia N97
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Hadlee Simons

    In the grand scheme of things, we really are spoiled by today’s Android phones. Modern devices pack a host of cool features when you really think about it. Even affordable mid-range phones offer high-quality touchscreens, fast charging speeds, big batteries, speedy connectivity, and capable processors that can handle virtually everything you can throw at them.

    It’s only when you look back at the early to mid-2000s smartphone era that you really appreciate how great today’s smartphones are. As someone who owned a couple of feature phones and several early Symbian smartphones, let me tell you all about the features I missed that many of us now take for granted.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/YSh4u8a
    via IFTTT
    Nokia N97
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Hadlee Simons

    In the grand scheme of things, we really are spoiled by today’s Android phones. Modern devices pack a host of cool features when you really think about it. Even affordable mid-range phones offer high-quality touchscreens, fast charging speeds, big batteries, speedy connectivity, and capable processors that can handle virtually everything you can throw at them.

    It’s only when you look back at the early to mid-2000s smartphone era that you really appreciate how great today’s smartphones are. As someone who owned a couple of feature phones and several early Symbian smartphones, let me tell you all about the features I missed that many of us now take for granted.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/YSh4u8a
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    Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 versus Snapdragon 8s Gen 3: How do these chips fare?

    0
    A phone with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 logo.
    Credit: Supplied by Qualcomm

    The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is Qualcomm’s most cutting-edge smartphone processor in 2024, powering phones like the Galaxy S24 series and many more. However, the company has just launched the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.

    This latest chipset is still positioned as a flagship-tier processor, but how does it differ from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3? Here’s everything you need to know.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/4s7t2E8
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    A phone with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 logo.
    Credit: Supplied by Qualcomm

    The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is Qualcomm’s most cutting-edge smartphone processor in 2024, powering phones like the Galaxy S24 series and many more. However, the company has just launched the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.

    This latest chipset is still positioned as a flagship-tier processor, but how does it differ from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3? Here’s everything you need to know.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/4s7t2E8
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    From season 3: Release window and other rumors

    0

    Small screen horror that Stephen Kin approves of? Sign me up, please. For those in the dark, From is a show about inhabitants of a town who are trapped there forever, and tormented by shape-shifting monsters who come out when the sun sets.

    Let’s get into the From season 3 release window, plot expectations, and cast details. And whether season 3 will finally answer the ultimate question: Is escape a possibility?



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/fAB5QZ2
    via IFTTT

    Small screen horror that Stephen Kin approves of? Sign me up, please. For those in the dark, From is a show about inhabitants of a town who are trapped there forever, and tormented by shape-shifting monsters who come out when the sun sets.

    Let’s get into the From season 3 release window, plot expectations, and cast details. And whether season 3 will finally answer the ultimate question: Is escape a possibility?



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/fAB5QZ2
    via IFTTT

    Apple pulls the plug on in-house MicroLED display for the Apple Watch

    0
    An Apple Watch Series 9 displays the app screen.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • A new report claims Apple has ended its initiative to develop MicroLED smartwatch displays in-house.
    • Apple reportedly canceled the project after finding the displays too complex and costly to develop.
    • In-house MicroLED displays would have allowed Apple to decrease its reliance on suppliers like Samsung.

    Rumors have suggested that Apple was internally preparing MicroLED displays for its future smartwatches, like the Apple Watch X. However, that possibility appears to have ended as a new report claims the Cupertino firm has shut down development.

    According to Bloomberg, Apple has reportedly halted its work on smartwatch MicroLED screens. It appears this decision was made around the same time the company decided to give up on its self-driving car, which was reported on back in late February.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/stCjhYi
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    An Apple Watch Series 9 displays the app screen.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • A new report claims Apple has ended its initiative to develop MicroLED smartwatch displays in-house.
    • Apple reportedly canceled the project after finding the displays too complex and costly to develop.
    • In-house MicroLED displays would have allowed Apple to decrease its reliance on suppliers like Samsung.

    Rumors have suggested that Apple was internally preparing MicroLED displays for its future smartwatches, like the Apple Watch X. However, that possibility appears to have ended as a new report claims the Cupertino firm has shut down development.

    According to Bloomberg, Apple has reportedly halted its work on smartwatch MicroLED screens. It appears this decision was made around the same time the company decided to give up on its self-driving car, which was reported on back in late February.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/stCjhYi
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    Google Wallet payments are getting annoying, but Android 15 might fix that

    0
    Google Wallet logo on smartphone next to credit cards and cash Stock photo 7
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • Google Wallet now requires unlocking your phone for every contactless payment, regardless of the amount.
    • Android 15 might bring back secure one-tap transactions with new features for secure pre-emptive authentication.

    Google Wallet users, particularly in Europe, are reporting a change in how contactless payments are authorized. Unlike before, regardless of the transaction amount, users are now required to unlock their phones with a fingerprint or PIN for every tap-to-pay purchase.

    9to5Google first reported that many European users were taking to Reddit to express their frustration with this new payment flow. In some European countries, contactless payments traditionally function with spending thresholds, where transactions below a set amount wouldn’t necessitate unlocking the phone. While this change prioritizes security, it’s understandable that it disrupts the previously smoother user experience where smaller purchases didn’t require unlocking.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/2u8vOsD
    via IFTTT
    Google Wallet logo on smartphone next to credit cards and cash Stock photo 7
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • Google Wallet now requires unlocking your phone for every contactless payment, regardless of the amount.
    • Android 15 might bring back secure one-tap transactions with new features for secure pre-emptive authentication.

    Google Wallet users, particularly in Europe, are reporting a change in how contactless payments are authorized. Unlike before, regardless of the transaction amount, users are now required to unlock their phones with a fingerprint or PIN for every tap-to-pay purchase.

    9to5Google first reported that many European users were taking to Reddit to express their frustration with this new payment flow. In some European countries, contactless payments traditionally function with spending thresholds, where transactions below a set amount wouldn’t necessitate unlocking the phone. While this change prioritizes security, it’s understandable that it disrupts the previously smoother user experience where smaller purchases didn’t require unlocking.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/2u8vOsD
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    How to install Android 15 on your Pixel phone right now

    0

    We hope you’re ready for the next version of Android because Android 15 is here! Although it will be quite a while before the software becomes stable enough for daily use, that doesn’t mean you can’t give it a shot. Below, we have instructions on how to install the second developer preview of Android 15 on a supported Pixel device.

    Should I install Android 15?

    Android 15 logo on smartphone with light strip in background stock photo (16)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/kFW3leo
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    We hope you’re ready for the next version of Android because Android 15 is here! Although it will be quite a while before the software becomes stable enough for daily use, that doesn’t mean you can’t give it a shot. Below, we have instructions on how to install the second developer preview of Android 15 on a supported Pixel device.

    Should I install Android 15?

    Android 15 logo on smartphone with light strip in background stock photo (16)



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/kFW3leo
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    Call of Duty Warzone Mobile launched, but will it run on your potato phone?

    0
    Call of Duty Warzone Mobile menu
    Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority
    • Call of Duty Warzone Mobile is now available on smartphones and tablets.
    • The game weighs in at 1.5GB, with an additional 5GB download upon booting up.
    • You’ll need an Android phone with at least 4GB of RAM and a relatively old GPU to play it.

    Call of Duty Warzone Mobile has been available as a limited release for a while now, but Activision has finally decided to fully launch the mobile game on smartphones and tablets.

    The company launched Call of Duty Warzone Mobile on Android and iOS today, and the game brings an initial download size of ~1.5GB on Android. Nevertheless, you’ll be required to download an additional 5GB worth of assets before you can start playing.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/yzcmt5u
    via IFTTT
    Call of Duty Warzone Mobile menu
    Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority
    • Call of Duty Warzone Mobile is now available on smartphones and tablets.
    • The game weighs in at 1.5GB, with an additional 5GB download upon booting up.
    • You’ll need an Android phone with at least 4GB of RAM and a relatively old GPU to play it.

    Call of Duty Warzone Mobile has been available as a limited release for a while now, but Activision has finally decided to fully launch the mobile game on smartphones and tablets.

    The company launched Call of Duty Warzone Mobile on Android and iOS today, and the game brings an initial download size of ~1.5GB on Android. Nevertheless, you’ll be required to download an additional 5GB worth of assets before you can start playing.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/yzcmt5u
    via IFTTT

    Google’s AI correctly predicts floods up to seven days early

    0
    Google Logo as seen at Google Store Mountain View
    Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
    • Google has been using AI to improve global-scale flood forecasting.
    • By training machine learning models, the tech giant was able to accurately predict some floods up to seven days in advance.
    • Google has used its technology to provide accurate flood forecasting in 80 countries.

    You may have heard plenty about Google’s various generative AI products like Circle to Search, its AI wallpaper tool, Search Generative Experience (SGE), and more. But you may not have heard nearly as much about the other ways it is using AI, such as predicting floods. Recently, Google was able to accurately predict flooding up to seven days in advance thanks to machine learning (ML).

    Today, Google announced it was able to significantly improve global-scale flood forecasting with the help of machine-learning technologies. According to the firm, it was able to improve the reliability of “global nowcasts, on average, from zero to five days.” In some cases, it was even able to predict floods a full week out before they happened.



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    Google Logo as seen at Google Store Mountain View
    Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
    • Google has been using AI to improve global-scale flood forecasting.
    • By training machine learning models, the tech giant was able to accurately predict some floods up to seven days in advance.
    • Google has used its technology to provide accurate flood forecasting in 80 countries.

    You may have heard plenty about Google’s various generative AI products like Circle to Search, its AI wallpaper tool, Search Generative Experience (SGE), and more. But you may not have heard nearly as much about the other ways it is using AI, such as predicting floods. Recently, Google was able to accurately predict flooding up to seven days in advance thanks to machine learning (ML).

    Today, Google announced it was able to significantly improve global-scale flood forecasting with the help of machine-learning technologies. According to the firm, it was able to improve the reliability of “global nowcasts, on average, from zero to five days.” In some cases, it was even able to predict floods a full week out before they happened.



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    Epic Games Store prepares for Android launch with a teaser

    0
    Epic Games Store on Android
    Credit: Epic Games Store
    • Epic has announced it will launch the Epic Games Store on Android and iOS.
    • It’s unknown when the launch will happen.
    • Epic’s revenue split could undercut the Google Play Store’s revenue split.

    Thanks to Epic’s various disputes with Apple, we know full and well that the game publisher intends to launch a store on iOS. But iOS won’t be the only place you’ll find the Epic Games Store. Epic’s marketplace will also bring Fortnite and other games to Android in the near future.

    In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Epic Games Store’s account teased a launch on both iOS and Android. Unfortunately, the post doesn’t elaborate on when the store will arrive on these platforms.



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    Epic Games Store on Android
    Credit: Epic Games Store
    • Epic has announced it will launch the Epic Games Store on Android and iOS.
    • It’s unknown when the launch will happen.
    • Epic’s revenue split could undercut the Google Play Store’s revenue split.

    Thanks to Epic’s various disputes with Apple, we know full and well that the game publisher intends to launch a store on iOS. But iOS won’t be the only place you’ll find the Epic Games Store. Epic’s marketplace will also bring Fortnite and other games to Android in the near future.

    In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Epic Games Store’s account teased a launch on both iOS and Android. Unfortunately, the post doesn’t elaborate on when the store will arrive on these platforms.



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    Galaxy S25 series could feature the fastest storage on a smartphone yet

    0
    Galaxy s24 ultra in hand
    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • Samsung’s upcoming UFS 4.0 4-lane technology will be released in 2025, promising data transfer speeds up to 8GB/s.
    • The timeline aligns with the launch of the Galaxy S25 series, which could debut with this new storage standard.
    • Faster storage translates to quicker app launches, smoother multitasking, and enhanced on-device AI capabilities.

    Samsung Semiconductor recently unveiled a roadmap detailing its plans for the next generation of Universal Flash Storage (UFS) solutions, which could also be our first hint at what the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 series might bring.

    Every year, our smartphones leap forward in power, and processors are usually hailed as the heroes behind this progress. But there’s another crucial component that often goes unnoticed: storage speed. Just like a wider highway with a higher speed limit allows for faster traffic flow, faster storage lets your phone handle data transfers, downloads, and anything else that relies on moving information around much more efficiently.



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    Galaxy s24 ultra in hand
    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • Samsung’s upcoming UFS 4.0 4-lane technology will be released in 2025, promising data transfer speeds up to 8GB/s.
    • The timeline aligns with the launch of the Galaxy S25 series, which could debut with this new storage standard.
    • Faster storage translates to quicker app launches, smoother multitasking, and enhanced on-device AI capabilities.

    Samsung Semiconductor recently unveiled a roadmap detailing its plans for the next generation of Universal Flash Storage (UFS) solutions, which could also be our first hint at what the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 series might bring.

    Every year, our smartphones leap forward in power, and processors are usually hailed as the heroes behind this progress. But there’s another crucial component that often goes unnoticed: storage speed. Just like a wider highway with a higher speed limit allows for faster traffic flow, faster storage lets your phone handle data transfers, downloads, and anything else that relies on moving information around much more efficiently.



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    Google might let Apple use Gemini, but Apple still has its own LLM coming

    0
    Apple Logo Apple Store BKC 2
    Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority
    • Apple recently published a research paper on a large language model it has been working on.
    • The company calls its AI architecture MM1.
    • MM1 could be used to build generative AI tools that would run on-device.

    When it comes to AI, we’ve seen plenty of products — like ChatGPT and Gemini — from major players in the tech space including Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI. While those companies have been churning out generative AI solutions left and right, Apple has been fairly quiet on this front. But if you thought Apple may be asleep at the wheel, a recently published research paper suggests otherwise.

    Apple quietly submitted a research paper last week related to its work on a multimodal large language model (MLLM) called MM1. Apple doesn’t explain what the meaning behind the name is, but it’s possible it could stand for MultiModal 1.



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    Apple Logo Apple Store BKC 2
    Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority
    • Apple recently published a research paper on a large language model it has been working on.
    • The company calls its AI architecture MM1.
    • MM1 could be used to build generative AI tools that would run on-device.

    When it comes to AI, we’ve seen plenty of products — like ChatGPT and Gemini — from major players in the tech space including Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI. While those companies have been churning out generative AI solutions left and right, Apple has been fairly quiet on this front. But if you thought Apple may be asleep at the wheel, a recently published research paper suggests otherwise.

    Apple quietly submitted a research paper last week related to its work on a multimodal large language model (MLLM) called MM1. Apple doesn’t explain what the meaning behind the name is, but it’s possible it could stand for MultiModal 1.



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    Google Pixel 8a rumors: Expected release date and what we know so far

    0
    Google Pixel 7a back with box
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

    Update, March 19, 2024 (06:15 PM ET): We’ve updated our Google Pixel 8a hub with leaked information regarding multiple specs as well as an FCC listing.


    The first time Google launched an A series phone was in 2019 with the Pixel 3a and 3a XL. At the time, those were some of the best Android phones you could get for the price. Since then, Google’s released a new A series Pixel every year. As such, we expect to see a Google Pixel 8a in 2024.



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    Google Pixel 7a back with box
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

    Update, March 19, 2024 (06:15 PM ET): We’ve updated our Google Pixel 8a hub with leaked information regarding multiple specs as well as an FCC listing.


    The first time Google launched an A series phone was in 2019 with the Pixel 3a and 3a XL. At the time, those were some of the best Android phones you could get for the price. Since then, Google’s released a new A series Pixel every year. As such, we expect to see a Google Pixel 8a in 2024.



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    Google Play Store widely rolls out new ‘App highlights’ feature

    0
    Google Play Store logo on smartphone stock photo (3)
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • Google is now officially rolling out its “App highlights” feature for the Play Store.
    • App highlights uses AI to generate brief summaries that highlight the key aspects of an app.

    It was only about a month ago when it was discovered that Google was testing an AI feature in the Play Store called “App highlights.” Now it appears the feature is rolling out officially.

    First spotted by Android Police, the latest Google System Release Notes mentions that users can “Watch the highlights of apps/games in places on Google Play Store.” Despite using the word “Watch,” this passage is likely referring to the text-based App highlights feature Google was found testing in a server-side rollout last month.



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    Google Play Store logo on smartphone stock photo (3)
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • Google is now officially rolling out its “App highlights” feature for the Play Store.
    • App highlights uses AI to generate brief summaries that highlight the key aspects of an app.

    It was only about a month ago when it was discovered that Google was testing an AI feature in the Play Store called “App highlights.” Now it appears the feature is rolling out officially.

    First spotted by Android Police, the latest Google System Release Notes mentions that users can “Watch the highlights of apps/games in places on Google Play Store.” Despite using the word “Watch,” this passage is likely referring to the text-based App highlights feature Google was found testing in a server-side rollout last month.



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    YouTube tells creators to label videos that have AI-generated content

    0
    YouTube logo close
    Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority
    • YouTube has introduced a new guideline requiring content creators to label realistic content created with AI.
    • The label will either appear on the video player or the expanded description, depending on the sensitivity of the topic.
    • The requirement does not apply to content that is unrealistic, animated, includes special effects, or has used generative AI for production assistance.

    With the widespread use of AI, it has become increasingly difficult to tell the difference between real and technically manipulated content. To fight potential disinformation, YouTube is implementing a new policy requiring content creators to label altered or synthetic content.  

    YouTube announced it is now requiring creators to disclose whether realistic-looking video content was made with AI tools. Under the new guidelines, content that uses the likeness of real people, altered footage of events and places, or generated realistic scenes should be accompanied by an ‘altered or synthetic content’ label to avoid misleading users.



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    YouTube logo close
    Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority
    • YouTube has introduced a new guideline requiring content creators to label realistic content created with AI.
    • The label will either appear on the video player or the expanded description, depending on the sensitivity of the topic.
    • The requirement does not apply to content that is unrealistic, animated, includes special effects, or has used generative AI for production assistance.

    With the widespread use of AI, it has become increasingly difficult to tell the difference between real and technically manipulated content. To fight potential disinformation, YouTube is implementing a new policy requiring content creators to label altered or synthetic content.  

    YouTube announced it is now requiring creators to disclose whether realistic-looking video content was made with AI tools. Under the new guidelines, content that uses the likeness of real people, altered footage of events and places, or generated realistic scenes should be accompanied by an ‘altered or synthetic content’ label to avoid misleading users.



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    Garmin Forerunner 165 review: Should you buy it?

    0

    Should you buy the Garmin Forerunner 165?

    A Garmin Forerunner 165 starts a run on their device.



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    Should you buy the Garmin Forerunner 165?

    A Garmin Forerunner 165 starts a run on their device.



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    Google Wallet may soon support Apple Wallet passes

    0
    Google Wallet 3
    Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority
    • An update to the Google Wallet app appears to have added support for .pkpass files.
    • Having .pkpass support would allow Google Wallet users to import passes from Apple Wallet.

    Google Wallet is a great app for storing cards and passes. However, Google’s app is not quite as ubiquitous as Apple Wallet and thus does not have the same level of support. But Google could soon close the gap by supporting a new file format.

    On X (formerly Twitter), Mishaal Rahman shared that a Telegram user informed him that they were able to import .pkpass files to Google Wallet. If you’re unfamiliar with this file format, it’s the same one that Apple Wallet uses for saved passes. Meaning, this update allows Apple Wallet passes to be used on Google Wallet.



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    Google Wallet 3
    Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority
    • An update to the Google Wallet app appears to have added support for .pkpass files.
    • Having .pkpass support would allow Google Wallet users to import passes from Apple Wallet.

    Google Wallet is a great app for storing cards and passes. However, Google’s app is not quite as ubiquitous as Apple Wallet and thus does not have the same level of support. But Google could soon close the gap by supporting a new file format.

    On X (formerly Twitter), Mishaal Rahman shared that a Telegram user informed him that they were able to import .pkpass files to Google Wallet. If you’re unfamiliar with this file format, it’s the same one that Apple Wallet uses for saved passes. Meaning, this update allows Apple Wallet passes to be used on Google Wallet.



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    Surprise: Apple eyeing Google Gemini for iPhone’s new AI features

    0
    Pixel 8 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro in hand
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • Apple is said to be in talks to adopt Google’s Gemini AI into the next version of iOS for iPhones, primarily for cloud-centric generative AI features like creating images and writing essays.
    • The company could bank on its own homegrown AI models for OS-level AI tasks within iOS 18 and partner with a company like Google or Open AI for the cloud-centric features.
    • The deal with Google is still in the works, so there is room for competitors and even multiple partners.

    We’re pretty deep into AI wars, with every company aiming to somehow use AI features in their products. We’ve seen the likes of the Google Pixel 8 series and the Galaxy S24 series successfully incorporate generative AI features in meaningful ways, giving them the edge in features. The iPhone is surprisingly missing from this race so far, but Apple has been rumored to be working on generative AI features for iOS 18. As it turns out, Apple could end up banking on Google’s Gemini for the AI smarts on the next iPhone.

    As per a report from Bloomberg, Apple is in talks to incorporate Google’s Gemini AI engine into the iPhone. The two companies are said to be in active negotiations to let Apple license Gemini to power some of the generative AI features coming to iOS 18.



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    Pixel 8 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro in hand
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • Apple is said to be in talks to adopt Google’s Gemini AI into the next version of iOS for iPhones, primarily for cloud-centric generative AI features like creating images and writing essays.
    • The company could bank on its own homegrown AI models for OS-level AI tasks within iOS 18 and partner with a company like Google or Open AI for the cloud-centric features.
    • The deal with Google is still in the works, so there is room for competitors and even multiple partners.

    We’re pretty deep into AI wars, with every company aiming to somehow use AI features in their products. We’ve seen the likes of the Google Pixel 8 series and the Galaxy S24 series successfully incorporate generative AI features in meaningful ways, giving them the edge in features. The iPhone is surprisingly missing from this race so far, but Apple has been rumored to be working on generative AI features for iOS 18. As it turns out, Apple could end up banking on Google’s Gemini for the AI smarts on the next iPhone.

    As per a report from Bloomberg, Apple is in talks to incorporate Google’s Gemini AI engine into the iPhone. The two companies are said to be in active negotiations to let Apple license Gemini to power some of the generative AI features coming to iOS 18.



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    Google is already faltering at its seven year update promise

    0
    Security Update Available 2
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

    Seven years of updates, as seen on the Google Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy S24 series, should be a stand-out selling point for the latest and greatest smartphones. In theory, it is; the old days of losing the latest Android features just two years after purchase were shameful, and up-to-date security is more important than ever now that we store virtually everything on our phones. However, Google may have bitten off more than it can chew with such long support pledges, especially when tied with the promise of regular Feature Drops.

    I’m sure you’ve read that Google’s Pixel 8 is at the center of recent controversy after confirming that Gemini Nano, Google’s compact model to power on-device AI, won’t be coming to the base model after making its way to the more expensive Pixel 8 Pro. That means no AI summaries or smart keyboard replies without the cloud. The reason: unspecified hardware limitations. That’s a double blow, given that Video Boost and other AI doodads were already reserved for the Pro.



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    Security Update Available 2
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

    Seven years of updates, as seen on the Google Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy S24 series, should be a stand-out selling point for the latest and greatest smartphones. In theory, it is; the old days of losing the latest Android features just two years after purchase were shameful, and up-to-date security is more important than ever now that we store virtually everything on our phones. However, Google may have bitten off more than it can chew with such long support pledges, especially when tied with the promise of regular Feature Drops.

    I’m sure you’ve read that Google’s Pixel 8 is at the center of recent controversy after confirming that Gemini Nano, Google’s compact model to power on-device AI, won’t be coming to the base model after making its way to the more expensive Pixel 8 Pro. That means no AI summaries or smart keyboard replies without the cloud. The reason: unspecified hardware limitations. That’s a double blow, given that Video Boost and other AI doodads were already reserved for the Pro.



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    A square Galaxy Watch 7 sounds like a great idea, hear me out

    0
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yBm3FOuZvM
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    A curious report from Sammobile this week claimed that the Galaxy Watch could go back to its square roots. It’s still a rumor for now, and we’re not sure if this will be the case for the Galaxy Watch 7 or if we have to wait more than a year to see it, but it got me hyped up! Samsung “copying” the Apple Watch design is a very good idea, and I put “copying” between quotes because we all know Apple didn’t invent that shape for smartwatches.

    Square vs round across time

    Apple Watch Series 8 vs Galaxy Watch 6



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    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yBm3FOuZvM
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    A curious report from Sammobile this week claimed that the Galaxy Watch could go back to its square roots. It’s still a rumor for now, and we’re not sure if this will be the case for the Galaxy Watch 7 or if we have to wait more than a year to see it, but it got me hyped up! Samsung “copying” the Apple Watch design is a very good idea, and I put “copying” between quotes because we all know Apple didn’t invent that shape for smartwatches.

    Square vs round across time

    Apple Watch Series 8 vs Galaxy Watch 6



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    What does the star mean on Apple Music?

    0

    If you are a subscriber to Apple Music, then you may have noticed something during browsing for music to play. Some tracks have a single star next to them. If you mouse over it, that star changes to a heart icon in case you want to “love” the track. But what does the star mean on Apple Music, and why is it there?

    QUICK ANSWER



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    If you are a subscriber to Apple Music, then you may have noticed something during browsing for music to play. Some tracks have a single star next to them. If you mouse over it, that star changes to a heart icon in case you want to “love” the track. But what does the star mean on Apple Music, and why is it there?

    QUICK ANSWER



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    Big or little Zenfones, more people should have their hands on them

    0
    ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra vs ASUS Zenfone 10
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Robert Triggs

    While last year’s swirling rumors that ASUS’ Zenfone line was at an end turned out to be wrong, those looking critically at the new Zenfone 11 Ultra might still feel that the reports were true in spirit. The gargantuan new model certainly doesn’t look much like the almost uniquely compact Zenfone 10. Instead, it bears more than a passing resemblance to the late 2023 gaming-focused ROG Phone 8 Pro, both inside and out.

    At face value, then, we’ve seen a lot of the Zenfone 11 Ultra before, and it’s hard to ignore voices that question: “Is this really a Zenfone?” This isn’t the very affordable, little but mighty flagship that’s earned a small cult following. I certainly miss the pocketability, grippy back, and smart use of the form factor, such as the fingerprint swipe gestures, that made last year’s Zenfone 10 one of the most compelling little phones on the market.



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    ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra vs ASUS Zenfone 10
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Robert Triggs

    While last year’s swirling rumors that ASUS’ Zenfone line was at an end turned out to be wrong, those looking critically at the new Zenfone 11 Ultra might still feel that the reports were true in spirit. The gargantuan new model certainly doesn’t look much like the almost uniquely compact Zenfone 10. Instead, it bears more than a passing resemblance to the late 2023 gaming-focused ROG Phone 8 Pro, both inside and out.

    At face value, then, we’ve seen a lot of the Zenfone 11 Ultra before, and it’s hard to ignore voices that question: “Is this really a Zenfone?” This isn’t the very affordable, little but mighty flagship that’s earned a small cult following. I certainly miss the pocketability, grippy back, and smart use of the form factor, such as the fingerprint swipe gestures, that made last year’s Zenfone 10 one of the most compelling little phones on the market.



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    Best new streaming shows this week: Girls5eva, Mant Hunt, and more

    0

    It’s hard to keep track of which streaming service is premiering which new show or movie from week to week. Netflix used to be king, but the streaming field is full of alternatives, and they’re all regularly pumping out new content. So, what are the best new streaming shows and where can you watch them? Every week, we answer that question for you, offering some exciting new and returning titles, including streaming originals, from services like Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Paramount Plus, and, yes, Netflix

    We’ll be updating this list every week, so stay tuned for more new streaming shows on every major service. Looking for even more? We keep an archive of our recommendations going back at least 30 days. 



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    It’s hard to keep track of which streaming service is premiering which new show or movie from week to week. Netflix used to be king, but the streaming field is full of alternatives, and they’re all regularly pumping out new content. So, what are the best new streaming shows and where can you watch them? Every week, we answer that question for you, offering some exciting new and returning titles, including streaming originals, from services like Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Paramount Plus, and, yes, Netflix

    We’ll be updating this list every week, so stay tuned for more new streaming shows on every major service. Looking for even more? We keep an archive of our recommendations going back at least 30 days. 



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    These are the best new streaming movies this week: Frida, Drive-Away Dolls, Irish Wish

    0

    There is a lot to watch on the various streaming services available in 2024 — sometimes, it almost feels like too much. To simplify things for you, we’ve compiled some of the best new streaming movies to watch that are new this week.

    Check out our top picks from major streamers like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and will sometimes even bring you an exciting new VOD movie or two. In addition to the latest movies from this week, we also give you other recommendations for shows that have arrived on a new streaming platform in the last 30 days. 



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    There is a lot to watch on the various streaming services available in 2024 — sometimes, it almost feels like too much. To simplify things for you, we’ve compiled some of the best new streaming movies to watch that are new this week.

    Check out our top picks from major streamers like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and will sometimes even bring you an exciting new VOD movie or two. In addition to the latest movies from this week, we also give you other recommendations for shows that have arrived on a new streaming platform in the last 30 days. 



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    Instagram could soon let you backdate posts

    0
    Instagram stock image 15
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • A tipster on X has indicated that you may soon be able to backdate your Instagram posts.
    • The feature appears when you try to share a new post.

    Instagram, one of the best apps on Android, could add a significant new feature in the near future. A recently shared screenshot suggests that you may soon be able to backdate your posts.

    Reliable leaker Alessandro Paluzzi shared an image on X (formerly Twitter) of a new feature Instagram appears to be working on. In the screenshot, there seems to be a “Post to the past” option among the list of sharing choices. While the self-described leaker doesn’t indicate how this information has been obtained, he is known for providing reliable tips when it comes to developments on Instagram.



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    Instagram stock image 15
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • A tipster on X has indicated that you may soon be able to backdate your Instagram posts.
    • The feature appears when you try to share a new post.

    Instagram, one of the best apps on Android, could add a significant new feature in the near future. A recently shared screenshot suggests that you may soon be able to backdate your posts.

    Reliable leaker Alessandro Paluzzi shared an image on X (formerly Twitter) of a new feature Instagram appears to be working on. In the screenshot, there seems to be a “Post to the past” option among the list of sharing choices. While the self-described leaker doesn’t indicate how this information has been obtained, he is known for providing reliable tips when it comes to developments on Instagram.



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    FCC turbocharges broadband: Speed requirements quadrupled!

    0

    Ethernet cable stock photo 5

    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • The FCC has changed the definition of broadband and increased speed requirements four-fold.
    • For an internet connection to be deemed broadband, it must now offer 100Mbps download and 20Mbps upload speeds.
    • The previous benchmark for broadband was 25Mbps download and 2Mbps upload.

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has increased broadband speed benchmarks for the first time in almost 10 years. For an internet service to be deemed “broadband,” the commission now requires it to provide at least 100Mbps download speeds and 20Mbps upload speeds.



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    Ethernet cable stock photo 5

    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • The FCC has changed the definition of broadband and increased speed requirements four-fold.
    • For an internet connection to be deemed broadband, it must now offer 100Mbps download and 20Mbps upload speeds.
    • The previous benchmark for broadband was 25Mbps download and 2Mbps upload.

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has increased broadband speed benchmarks for the first time in almost 10 years. For an internet service to be deemed “broadband,” the commission now requires it to provide at least 100Mbps download speeds and 20Mbps upload speeds.



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    Google I/O 2024 confirmed for May 14th: Here’s what to expect

    0
    Google I/O 2019 Stage Logo
    • Google I/O 2024 is happening on Tuesday, May 14th.
    • We can expect the Pixel 8a launch, updates on Android 15, and a deep dive into Google’s AI advancements.

    Google has officially announced that its annual developer conference, Google I/O, will be held on Tuesday, May 14th, 2024. Google confirmed the date after enough community members completed its “Break the Loop” puzzle.

    The I/O event date traditionally marks the day of the keynote address, which Google uses to unveil new hardware and software features for existing Google products. This year’s I/O should be no different, kicking off with a keynote address by CEO Sundar Pichai at the Shoreline Amphitheater. The event should then transition to developer-focused talks and technical sessions available online.



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    Google I/O 2019 Stage Logo
    • Google I/O 2024 is happening on Tuesday, May 14th.
    • We can expect the Pixel 8a launch, updates on Android 15, and a deep dive into Google’s AI advancements.

    Google has officially announced that its annual developer conference, Google I/O, will be held on Tuesday, May 14th, 2024. Google confirmed the date after enough community members completed its “Break the Loop” puzzle.

    The I/O event date traditionally marks the day of the keynote address, which Google uses to unveil new hardware and software features for existing Google products. This year’s I/O should be no different, kicking off with a keynote address by CEO Sundar Pichai at the Shoreline Amphitheater. The event should then transition to developer-focused talks and technical sessions available online.



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    Google Messages replaces the default viewfinder with new camera UI

    0
    Google Messages SMS stock photo 2
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • Google Messages is pushing out an update that introduces a new camera UI.
    • The new viewfinder loses many of the camera options present in the system camera app.
    • Users can now directly switch between photo and video mode.

    Taking photos or videos within the Google Messages app is going to look a little different soon. Google is releasing an update that will give the app its own custom built-in camera.

    According to 9to5Google, Google has started rolling out a server-side update to the Google Messages app. Discovered in the latest beta version (20240312_00_RC00), that update is introducing a new viewfinder.



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    Google Messages SMS stock photo 2
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    • Google Messages is pushing out an update that introduces a new camera UI.
    • The new viewfinder loses many of the camera options present in the system camera app.
    • Users can now directly switch between photo and video mode.

    Taking photos or videos within the Google Messages app is going to look a little different soon. Google is releasing an update that will give the app its own custom built-in camera.

    According to 9to5Google, Google has started rolling out a server-side update to the Google Messages app. Discovered in the latest beta version (20240312_00_RC00), that update is introducing a new viewfinder.



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    T-Mobile could be preparing to hit prepaid customers with new fees

    0
    T Mobile logo angled MWC 2022
    Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority
    • Leaked documents suggest T-Mobile could be preparing to introduce new fees for prepaid customers.
    • The carrier is doing away with the SIM card fee and replacing it with a full “Device Connection Charge.”
    • Prepaid customers who are assisted by T-Mobile experts will be charged a support fee.

    T-Mobile was in the news last week after a leaked internal document revealed the carrier may temporarily reduce the cost of its Device Connection Charge (DCC). New documents have surfaced since then and they suggest T-Mobile could be preparing to add some new charges for prepaid customers.

    An image of an official-looking document believed to be from T-Mobile has made its way to Reddit. Shared by Reddit user Electronic-Quail4464, the document says the carrier is doing away with SIM Starter Kits and is replacing them with its one-time DCC fee. According to the document, this change will start after March 21, 2024.



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    T Mobile logo angled MWC 2022
    Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority
    • Leaked documents suggest T-Mobile could be preparing to introduce new fees for prepaid customers.
    • The carrier is doing away with the SIM card fee and replacing it with a full “Device Connection Charge.”
    • Prepaid customers who are assisted by T-Mobile experts will be charged a support fee.

    T-Mobile was in the news last week after a leaked internal document revealed the carrier may temporarily reduce the cost of its Device Connection Charge (DCC). New documents have surfaced since then and they suggest T-Mobile could be preparing to add some new charges for prepaid customers.

    An image of an official-looking document believed to be from T-Mobile has made its way to Reddit. Shared by Reddit user Electronic-Quail4464, the document says the carrier is doing away with SIM Starter Kits and is replacing them with its one-time DCC fee. According to the document, this change will start after March 21, 2024.



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    Samsung Galaxy A25 5G review: Should you buy it?

    0

    Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G?

    Samsung knows as well as anyone that the affordable Android market is a challenging space to occupy. It offers several budget-friendly smartphones, with standouts at the highest (Galaxy A54 5G) and lowest (Galaxy A14 5G) ends, but has struggled to deliver great phones in between the two for a few generations now. We picked apart issues like weak low-light cameras on the Galaxy A34 5G and underwhelming speakers and sizable bezels on the Galaxy A23 5G, but now Samsung is ready to try for the middle ground again with its Galaxy A25 5G.



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    Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G?

    Samsung knows as well as anyone that the affordable Android market is a challenging space to occupy. It offers several budget-friendly smartphones, with standouts at the highest (Galaxy A54 5G) and lowest (Galaxy A14 5G) ends, but has struggled to deliver great phones in between the two for a few generations now. We picked apart issues like weak low-light cameras on the Galaxy A34 5G and underwhelming speakers and sizable bezels on the Galaxy A23 5G, but now Samsung is ready to try for the middle ground again with its Galaxy A25 5G.



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    Spotify now shows music videos for Premium subscribers in select regions

    0
    OnePlus Nord Macro shot of the home screen with the Spotify logo in the middle
    Credit: Ryan-Thomas Shaw / Android Authority
    • Spotify announced it is rolling out a beta that will allow Premium subscribers to watch music videos.
    • The beta is currently only available in 11 countries.
    • Users will be able to watch music videos by hitting the “Switch to Video” toggle on supported music tracks.

    Spotify is introducing a new way for users to enjoy music on its platform. Starting today, certain Premium subscribers will be able to watch music videos.

    Spotify has announced it is launching a beta that will bring music videos to the streaming app. The feature can be used by Premium subscribers on iOS, Android, desktop, or on TVs. This launch is a limited one, as the beta is currently available to only 11 countries. These markets include:



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    OnePlus Nord Macro shot of the home screen with the Spotify logo in the middle
    Credit: Ryan-Thomas Shaw / Android Authority
    • Spotify announced it is rolling out a beta that will allow Premium subscribers to watch music videos.
    • The beta is currently only available in 11 countries.
    • Users will be able to watch music videos by hitting the “Switch to Video” toggle on supported music tracks.

    Spotify is introducing a new way for users to enjoy music on its platform. Starting today, certain Premium subscribers will be able to watch music videos.

    Spotify has announced it is launching a beta that will bring music videos to the streaming app. The feature can be used by Premium subscribers on iOS, Android, desktop, or on TVs. This launch is a limited one, as the beta is currently available to only 11 countries. These markets include:



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    Wear OS 5 wishlist: What I want to see and what we know so far

    0
    The Sasmung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is one of the first two devices to have debuted Wear OS 4.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

    The Wear OS landscape is gaining traction with more names in the field than ever, including Google’s own smartwatch line. We’re only a few months out from the next round of major Wear OS device launches (looking at you, Samsung), and I’m already eager to see what a potential Wear OS 5 launch might look like.

    Wear OS 5: Features I want to see

    A Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 displays the Wear OS start screen.



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    The Sasmung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is one of the first two devices to have debuted Wear OS 4.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

    The Wear OS landscape is gaining traction with more names in the field than ever, including Google’s own smartwatch line. We’re only a few months out from the next round of major Wear OS device launches (looking at you, Samsung), and I’m already eager to see what a potential Wear OS 5 launch might look like.

    Wear OS 5: Features I want to see

    A Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 displays the Wear OS start screen.



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    How to change your Spotify email address

    0
    Changing your Spotify email address while preserving your account data might seem daunting, especially if you’ve spent time creating playlists and uploading music to your old email-associated account. Here’s how to change your Spotify email address without losing any of your data.

    THE SHORT ANSWER 

    To change your Spotify email address, navigate to your Spotify account page on a desktop or mobile browser. From there, select Account > Edit email. Delete the existing email and fill in the space with your desired email address in the Email field. Select Save to finish.



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    Changing your Spotify email address while preserving your account data might seem daunting, especially if you’ve spent time creating playlists and uploading music to your old email-associated account. Here’s how to change your Spotify email address without losing any of your data.

    THE SHORT ANSWER 

    To change your Spotify email address, navigate to your Spotify account page on a desktop or mobile browser. From there, select Account > Edit email. Delete the existing email and fill in the space with your desired email address in the Email field. Select Save to finish.



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    Galaxy S24 soars: Sales jump 14% over the S23 in the US

    0
    • The Galaxy S24 series is reportedly selling faster than last year’s model.
    • A report says Samsung’s latest flagship experienced double-digit sales growth in multiple markets.
    • Sales jumped up by 14% in the US compared to the S23 in the same amount of time.

    It has been a couple of months since Samsung launched the Galaxy S24 series. Now a new report is telling us how well the latest flagship is selling and how it compares to last year’s model.

    A report from ZDNet Korea, based on data from Counterpoint Research, claims that the Galaxy S24 series experienced strong sales between January 28 to February 17. For context, Samsung announced and opened up pre-orders in the US on January 17 and released the phones on January 31.



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    • The Galaxy S24 series is reportedly selling faster than last year’s model.
    • A report says Samsung’s latest flagship experienced double-digit sales growth in multiple markets.
    • Sales jumped up by 14% in the US compared to the S23 in the same amount of time.

    It has been a couple of months since Samsung launched the Galaxy S24 series. Now a new report is telling us how well the latest flagship is selling and how it compares to last year’s model.

    A report from ZDNet Korea, based on data from Counterpoint Research, claims that the Galaxy S24 series experienced strong sales between January 28 to February 17. For context, Samsung announced and opened up pre-orders in the US on January 17 and released the phones on January 31.



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