High refresh rate lag to be fixed on S21 Android 12 One UI 4 beta

Samsung's S21 screens will be smooth again "soon." What you need to know The final One UI 4 beta seems to have broken the high refresh rate on Samsung's Galaxy S21 phones with Snapdragon chips. The apparent bug seems to limit the refresh rate on S21 displays to 60Hz, well below the 120Hz the phone is capable of. Samsung says it is working on a fix but hasn't given a firm timeline to resolve the issue. Samsung is known for making some of the best Android phones that you can buy, with gorgeous screens featuring high refresh rate displays, fantastic cameras, and industry-leading One UI software. However, the company's most recent One UI beta build for Android 12 seems to have thrown a wrench in that smooth-running machine. According to a reddit thread reported on by Android Police, the final One UI beta build for Android 12 appears to have locked the high refresh rates down to just 60Hz on S21 series phones. This has resulted in stuttery scrolling and laggy app experiences. Curiou...
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The Android Central 2021 Awards are in — and here are all our winners

Just when we thought 2020 was a lot to handle, along came 2021. But you know what? We made it to the finish line, and that deserves a celebration. To honor the companies that have kept us entertained, productive, and even awed throughout the year, we've compiled a list of our favorite products and services this year. From streaming media to Android phones, from smartwatches to tablets, and all the gadgets and gizmos that make our lives easier. Join us in congratulating our Best of 2021 Android Central Award winners. We're betting that you'll agree with many of these picks as well! Best Android Phones of 2021 Best Phone Overall Google Pixel 6 Pro $900 at Google A triumphant return to the top Finally, Google made the flagship phone fans have been craving for as long as the Pixel line has been a thing. The Google Pixel 6 Pro builds on the solid foundations of the regular Pixel 6 and adds, among other things, one of the best telephoto cameras around. The 4X 48-megapixel shooter...
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This insane Walmart deal takes up to $750 off the Galaxy Z Flip 3

It's safe to say that the Galaxy Z Flip 3 is one of the best Android phones you can get your hands on at the moment. The phone has similar hardware to the Galaxy S21+, but the fact that it folds down makes it that much more exciting. And retailing for $999, it costs the same as the Galaxy S21+ as well. Samsung has incentivized its latest foldables quite heavily following their launch, but Walmart's latest offer takes things to a whole new level. As part of its Black Friday deals, Walmart is offering up to $750 off the Galaxy Z Flip 3, with the effective cost of the phone down to $250. Obviously, there are a few caveats: the deal comes with an instant $500 e-gift card from Walmart, and if you're trading in an older device, you get an additional $250 e-gift card, bringing the total to $750. The deal is valid on the AT&T and Verizon models of the Galaxy Z Flip 3, and isn't available with the unlocked models. You'll see the offer kicking in at 3pm ET exclusively for Walmart Plus memb...
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Genshin Impact reveals two new characters, Shenhe and Yun Jin

An opera director and an exorcist are on the way. What you need to know Two new characters have been revealed for Genshin Impact. Shenhe is a disciple from a family of exorcists, while Yun Jin is an opera director. These two characters do not have a launch date, but it'll be sometime after Update 2.3. Genshin Impact is getting two more characters, as revealed on Monday. According to the Twitter bios shared out for Yun Jun and Shenhe, Yun Jin is a Geo Polarm user and the director of the Yun-Han Opera Troupe. Meanwhile, Shenhe is a Polearm user that comes from a family of exorcists. Shenhe is known as the "Lonesome Transcendence," while Yun Jin is referred to as "Stage Lucida." There's no other information right now, as these characters won't be available until at least sometime after Genshin Impact Update 2.3. Update 2.3 brings several new quests and events in the Dragonspine mountains, with training and even the ability for players to collect snow for building a snowman. That ...
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These are the best Black Friday Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch Active deals

If you've been on the fence about whether or not to buy the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, maybe a decent discount is all you need to be swayed. These watches are already fairly priced given all the updates and new features they have, but who doesn't love a good sale? The good news is some of the best Black Friday Android smartwatch deals are starting early this year, so you don't have to wait to get your discount. In fact, there are several models within the Galaxy Watch lineup that will be on sale. As you check out all the great deals on Android smartwatches, you'll see there are plenty of sales to go around. The newest models in the Galaxy Watch series are the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. Aside from a few differences in the physical design, these watches share the same features. If you can stretch your budget a bit further, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic offers a more traditional design with a physical rotating bezel for seamless UI navigation. It comes in 42mm and 46...
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How to take Ultrawide Selfies and 4K front video on the Google Pixel 6

While the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro sport some of the very best cameras in the industry, the default settings aren't set to the maximum quality that can be offered. This is especially true for the front-facing camera, which defaults to 1080p resolution and a standard angle of view. Get the most out of your Pixel 6 by jumping to 4K resolution and an ultrawide angle by following these steps, and don't forget to enable speech enhancement to make your videos sound as amazing as they'll soon look! How to take ultrawide selfies on Pixel 6 Pro The Google Pixel 6 Pro is equipped with a wider-angle front-facing camera that can take in more of your surroundings with the tap of a button. Open the camera app. Switch to the front-facing camera by clicking the circular arrow button on the bottom-left of the viewfinder. At the bottom of the screen, above the white shutter button, select the .7x button to switch to the ultrawide angle. While the default view is best for taking a nice fu...
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How to add the Chrome Dino game widget to your home screen

Google Chrome's dinosaur game is adored by adults and children alike. Google is very good-humored about it and even updates the game with ongoing events and holidays. For instance, in the past, we've seen an Olympic-themed version of the Chrome Dino game. If you're on your Android phone, you can add Google's Chrome Dino game widget to your home screen. Here's how you can do that. How to add the Chrome Dino game widget to your home screen Open Google Chrome on your phone. Go to chrome:flags/#enable-quick-action-search-widget-android-dino-variant. Set the Quick Action Search Widget - Dino Variant flag to Enabled. Go to your home screen. Press and hold until the home settings menu appears. Tap on Widgets. Look for the Chrome Dino widget. Place the widget on your home screen. Tap the Chrome Dino widget to play. With the cutesy Chrome Dino widget sitting on your home screen, you won't have to fumble around Chrome looking for the side-scroller. It's a fun casual game for Andro...
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Score $30 in savings when you pre-order Amazon Halo View

If you're on the hunt for some of the best Black Friday fitness tracker deals, you'll be glad to know there are plenty of options available. If you've already had your eye on the upcoming Amazon Halo View, you're in for a treat. Buyers can save $30 when they pre-order Amazon Halo View ahead of its December 8, 2021, release date. Amazon Halo View is the much-needed successor to the Amazon Halo Band that was released late last year. However, if you're not concerned about having all the latest features, you can also score a sweet deal on the Amazon Halo Band, which is 45% off for Black Friday. Those who want to enjoy all the upgrades should consider the Amazon Halo View deal instead. This new-and-improved fitness tracker now has an AMOLED display. Previously, you had to pull out your phone to view your health and fitness data. In addition, the always-on microphone has been removed, which was a major source of battery drain on the predecessor. Now, it's much more likely that users will r...
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Review: The Amazon Echo Auto has gotten better, but still has a ways to go

Not as bad as it was; not as good as it could be. No, it's not deja vu — we really are doing another Amazon Echo Auto review. So why would we bother doing that two years later? Well, that's a good question; I'm glad you asked! When we first reviewed the Echo Auto back in 2019 (yes, it's really been that long), the product was decidedly not ready for prime time, and its review score at the time — two stars out of five — clearly reflected that. But that initial review also mentioned that the device could be so much better with some minor updates and tweaks, which naturally encouraged me to take a second look at some point in the future. Well, enough time has elapsed to allow Amazon to dedicate greater resources to developing the back-end services to make this gadget work as it initially intended. Indeed, the Echo Auto is a much more complete product than it was at launch, and if it was as well-rounded now as it was then, I'm sure my colleague would have given it another star or...
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Find your true Nord for $40 less this Black Friday

After it was done killing flagships, OnePlus tackled the budget phone segment head-on with the Nord series. U.S. residents finally got a taste of cheap Android phones that perform like no other with the Nord N10 5G. The even more affordable OnePlus Nord N200 5G followed soon after, to the delight of many Americans. Despite its inexpensive pricing, the Nord N200 5G looks and feels very much like one of the best OnePlus phones. It touts a gorgeous 6.49-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, giving on-screen movements a certain fluidity. Combined with the lightweight Oxygen OS, you'll have good fun browsing through this device. For shooting pictures or video clips, the OnePlus Nord N200 sports a triple camera setup on the back. Your data will stay safe and secure in the phone, guarded by the side-mounted fingerprint reader. Alternatively, you can use the 16MP front snapper to utilize face unlock. The Nord N200 supports 18W fast charging but that will only be needed once in two or t...
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Instantly improve your home theater setup with the best soundbars

Soundbars have come a long way in the last few years, offering excellent sound while taking up less space and costing far less. Our criteria for the best soundbars start with: bars that won't bankrupt you, come with the best streaming devices or smart assistants built-in and create powerful sound without relying on subwoofers or rear speakers. The Sonos Beam will astonish you with its massive sound in a small, reasonably-priced package, but we have plenty of other great options to consider below. Best overall: Sonos Beam Smart TV Sound Bar With the Sonos Beam, you get the best soundbar with some basic smarts. The Sonos Beam connects to your TV with HDMI-ARC or with the included HDMI-to-Optical adapter. A recent update has brought the ability for integration between Sonos products and Google Assistant. You can control your TV with your voice if your TV supports HDMI-CEC, which most modern sets do. Controlling your TV with your voice isn't a replacement for a remote, but it's an ex...
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Black Friday deals for the best Android phones are here

It's that time of year again. Black Friday is nearly upon us if you can believe it! Much like last year, many of the best deals will be available not only in person at retail stores but also online. It's never too early to start looking for bargains on the best Android phones, so here is a running list of Android phone deals that we've got our eye on leading up to the biggest shopping weekend of the year. Best Black Friday Android phone deals: Samsung Google Pixel OnePlus Motorola There are some pretty stellar Black Friday phone deals every year, though you have to know where to shop if you want to find the best offers. So whether you're hoping for the best Samsung deals, Google Pixel deals, some other Android phone, or even an iPhone (gasp!), this is truly the best time of the year to find one. When it comes to phone deals, you have three types: wholesale discounts from retailers, trade-in discounts and deals from manufacturers, and special deals from carriers. We're doing...
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Google Messages starts fixing those pesky iMessage reactions

iMessage reactions are now being translated into emoji in Google Messages. Update, Nov 20 (7:41 a.m. ET): Rolling out now for some users What you need to know Google Messages is now interpreting iMessage reactions as emoji. iMessage reactions are currently displayed as text descriptions when received on Google Messages. Google Messages might also pick up a birthday reminder that will be displayed in the conversation list. Google might be working on improving the way its Messages service handles iMessage reactions. According to 9to5Google, the company could be preparing to display iMessage reactions as emoji on the Messages app. An app teardown of the app's most recent beta version (v10.7) reveals a string of code indicating an upcoming preference to address those annoying iMessage reactions that appear as text descriptions on Messages. Currently, iMessage lets you react to SMS with likes and emoji, which will then be displayed as such on the recipient's device running iOS. Ho...
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Prices are going up for Hulu + Live TV subscriptions, but it's not all bad

Disney really wants people on its Disney Bundle. What you need to know Hulu is raising the price of its Live TV subscriptions by $5 per month. The streaming service will now include Disney+ and ESPN+ with the service at no extra cost, as a consolation. The change will go into effect on December 21. Hulu is raising its prices again, but this time the increase affects subscribers of its Live TV service. As noted by Variety, the company will increase the cost of its Live TV subscription options by $5 per month. This will bring the price to $70 per month, which puts it above rival services like YouTube TV. However, the streaming service does offer 4K at no extra cost on many of the best streaming devices. Additionally, Disney is apparently sweetening the pot by bundling Disney+ and ESPN+ at no extra cost as a consolation for the price increase. That does sound like a nice consolation, considering that the bundle normally costs $73 per month, and both Disney+ and ESPN+ cost $8 and ...
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Genshin Impact Update 2.3: Release date, characters, and everything new

Geo characters will headline this latest update. Genshin Impact Update 2.3, "Shadows Amidst Snowstorms," is set to release on Nov. 24, 2021. While it may be an incremental update this time around, it's still adding new characters and events to one of the best Android games out there. From the mountainous Dragonspine area to Inazuma, players will have plenty of content to get through. Just be sure you brace for the unrelenting cold. As always, Update 2.3 will be free for all players across all platforms. With that said, let's dive in and check out everything you can expect when it launches. Genshin Impact Update 2.3: Adventures in Dragonspine The snowy mountain of Dragonspine will soon be home to new challenges that await players in Update 2.3. Taking its name from the title of the update, Shadows Amidst Snowstorms is the primary event and focus of this upcoming update. It may not be a massive update, but it is aptly themed around the cold holiday season. Agility Training: S...
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Try one of the best tri-band Wi-Fi mesh systems with Eero 48% off at Amazon

Eero has made a name for itself in the home Wi-Fi market thanks to its tight focus on delivering consistent performance with one of the easiest setup experiences around. With a tri-band connection and a tiny housing, the Eero Pro is a great value at $139 (30% off) at Amazon. Not only that, but if you have a large house with Wi-Fi dead zones, Eero works great as a mesh. While you can link up multiple Eero Pro routers, you also have the option of using the compact Eero Beacon which is also on sale for $71, a massive 40% off at Amazon. The Eero Pro has great performance thanks to its tri-band AC2200 connection. Tri-band is essential for the best possible mesh performance because mesh routers need to be able to communicate with one another. Having a dedicated band for the mesh connection allows the system to perform at full speed for devices without giving up any mesh link speed. The Eero Pro is set up with the Eero app in just a few minutes and kept up to date automatically. You can eas...
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Save 50% on this Echo Dot (3rd Gen) before Black Friday

Searching for the best smart home deals ahead of Black Friday? Look no further, because we've got you covered. One particularly sweet deal is on the Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Gen) discounted by 50% to just $20. While it's not the first time we've seen it on sale (and it certainly won't be the last), you probably won't find it for a cheaper price than right now. These early Black Friday deals are sure to go fast, so don't hold off until next week to pick up something that you want. You never know when deals will end or an item will go out of stock. If you're interested in the Echo Dot (3rd Gen), then now's the time. Get an Echo Dot (3rd Gen) for just $20 Echo Dot (3rd Gen) $20 $20 at Amazon With Alexa-enabled voice controls, you can control other compatible smart home devices around the house, check the weather, and have Alexa answer any questions you can think of. And for those serious about privacy, you can turn off its microphone whenever you'd like. Pick up this model for half o...
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Xiaomi 12X leak reveals a Snapdragon 870-powered compact Android 'flagship'

It looks like the Xiaomi 12X won't be a follow-up to the Mi 11X. What you need to know Xiaomi could be working on a compact flagship called the Xiaomi 12X. The phone will apparently feature a 6.28-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is tipped to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 870 processor. Xiaomi is rumored to launch the first phone powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 898 chipset before the end of the year. The upcoming flagship is expected to debut as the Xiaomi 12 and could be a direct successor to the vanilla Xiaomi Mi 11. New evidence discovered by Xiaomi tipster Kacper Skrzypek suggests the Xiaomi 12 will be joined by a smaller flagship phone called the 12X. Say "hello" to the #Xiaomi12X (codename: psyche, not for India).Snapdragon 870, 50 Mpx main camera, display 145.4 x 65.4 mm (6,28") AMOLED HDR10 FOD 120Hz FullHD+ (1080x2400) pic.twitter.com/WOjat1mPnB— Kacper Skrzypek 🇵🇱 (@kacskrz) November 18, 2021 According to Skrzypek, the upcoming Xia...
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Stadia celebrates two years with big anniversary and Black Friday sales

Deals for all. What you need to know Stadia celebrates its second anniversary today since its launch on November 19, 2019. Google is heavily discounting the Stadia Premiere Edition as part of the anniversary or giving it away with the purchase of a game during the platform's Black Friday sale. The company revealed stats about the past year for Stadia and future plans for the cloud platform. Google is celebrating the second anniversary of Stadia with a heavy discount on its hardware alongside other sales to coincide with Black Friday. The company is marking down its Stadia Premiere Edition from its regular $80 price to $22/€22 on the Google Store for a limited time, or supplies last, as a cheeky way to mark the occasion. The Stadia Premiere Edition contains a Chromecast Ultra and a Stadia controller, and was replaced by the Play and Watch with Google TV Package last August. The discount is available in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Nether...
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Play on — these are the best sports games for Android

Get your game on — even in the offseason — with the best sports games available for Android. After a few golden years of fantastic entries, it seems like most mobile sports games have succumbed to the freemium model. There are far too few quality titles available that just let you jump into the game without having to deal with player cards, pointless upgrades, or waiting for stamina meters to refill. Nearly all the top mobile sports game franchises have switched over to a team-building system that requires you to unlock (or buy) card packs to upgrade your team. However, there are still great games to be played. We've tried to cover the five major North American sports here with some extras thrown in for fun. Be sure to note which games are more sim-based for the hardcore sports fan and which ones offer a more arcade-like option for casual players. Want something a bit less sporty? We have a list of the best Android games overall, too! The games Australian Open Game Bowlin...
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These are the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 screen protectors

Finding the best Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 screen protector for your device is easy when you know what to look for. First, you want to find a product that is specifically designed for your model's case size (40mm or 44mm). Next, you'll need to determine what type of screen protector offers the best protection. Some popular choices include tempered glass for the display as well as protective cases for all-around coverage. We've put together a few of our favorites to help you choose. The best protection Supershieldz Tempered Glass Screen Protector (3-Pack) Staff Pick When you're looking for all-around protection, you'll want to consider this three-pack from Supershieldz. All the features you seek in a screen protector are present. You'll enjoy high-quality tempered glass for maximum scratch protection, high-definition clarity, and hydrophobic, as well as an oleophobic coating to reduce sweat and fingerprints. $8 at Amazon (44mm) $7 at Amazon (40mm) Amazing precision SPGUARD...
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You can now pick up a pair of Nreal Light AR glasses at Verizon stores

Now available at 20 physical Verizon locations around the U.S. What you need to know Nreal Light AR glasses can be found starting November 18 at 20 Verizon stores in the U.S. for $599, and online on December 2. These AR glasses tether to your phone via USB Cable and can be used with any app installed on your phone. The lenses create a 220-inch virtual display in front of your face and features 6DoF positional tracking. It's been some time since we've gotten our hands (and faces) on Nreal Light, but now you, too, can get ahold of your very own pair at one of 20 local Verizon stores around the U.S. right now, or online at Verizon's website starting December 2. Retailing for $599, Nreal Light AR glasses work by tethering to your phone with a USB cable and deliver a giant virtual screen in front of you instead of just in your hands. That 220-inch virtual screen can be used for anything from apps to games, movie watching, and even working on the go. Nreal Light previously launched i...
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Instagram uses video selfies to make sure you're not a bot

Instagram says your video selfies will be deleted within 30 days. What you need to know Instagram has begun using video selfies for identity verification. The new authentication method is aimed at determining if an account is created by a real person. Instagram promises to not store video selfies for more than 30 days. Instagram is now using video selfies to combat suspected bots. Instagram is asking users to verify themselves by recording a video selfie, according to a couple of screenshots shared by social media consultant Matt Navarra. The verification system is designed to detect bots, including accounts that engage in suspicious behavior such as liking a large number of posts and following multiple accounts in a short period of time. According to Instagram, a video selfie can help confirm if the account in question was created by a real person. In response to Navarra's tweet, Instagram says video selfie verification was unveiled a year ago. However, it was suspended due t...
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Bose's best-selling ANC wireless earbuds pick up a huge discount

Bose has rolled out a lot of wireless earbuds, and the QuietComfort Earbuds have the distinction of being one of the best from the audio manufacturer. They tick all the right boxes if you're in the market for new wireless earbuds: they have adjustable active noise cancellation, amazing sound quality with an auto-adjusting EQ that makes your music come to life, and IPX4 water resistance for workouts. The QuietComfort Earbuds usually retail for $279, but they're now selling on Amazon for $199 for Black Friday, $80 off their launch price. You're basically getting a 29% discount on one of the best wireless earbuds in the market today, making this a standout Black Friday headphone deal. One area where these earbuds shine is active noise cancellation; Bose even goes as far as to claim that these are the among the best in its class at tuning out ambient sound, and that isn't an exaggeration. The built-in mics do a great job finding ambient noise in your vicinity, and the earbuds effortlessl...
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These are the best Bluetooth trackers to keep tabs on valuables

Never worry about losing your keys again after you grab one of our picks for the best Bluetooth trackers! Instead, simply pair one of these Bluetooth trackers with your phone and attach it to your keys or valuables. Then, when you lose an item, you're only an app away from quickly finding it again. Tile continues to dominate this market though it faces competition from new players all the time. Even so, our favorite Bluetooth tracker is still the Tile Pro. And the more recent version, introduced in late 2019, offers an unbeatable range, the loudest alert, and a one-year replaceable battery. Best overall: Tile Pro One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a Bluetooth tracker is range. This determines the distance a tracker can be found through your smartphone app. Most people shopping for a tracker are going to look for the largest range possible. While many options clock in around 100 to 200 feet on the market, the new Tile Pro beats those numbers by a long shot....
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New Gmail Material You widget lets you do a lot more from your home screen

Google is rolling out a new widget for Gmail. What you need to know An updated Gmail widget is rolling out with a few new features. Users can now perform several functions directly from the widget, including archiving emails. The new widget now fully supports Material You dynamic color. Google has been busy updating its widgets following the launch of Android 12, and now Gmail is the latest to get a bit of a revamp, making it a lot more colorful and more useful for some of you that lead busy lives. According to 9to5Google, the new look is arriving with Gmail version 2021.10.31. The most noticeable change to the Gmail widget is the improved support for Material You's dynamic color on Google's best Android phones, with a colored background and emails that are more individually highlighted. Each entry now has a button to quickly archive emails without opening the app. In addition, the compose button now moved from the bottom of the widget to the top right corner. In its place is ...
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Here are the best Nest cameras on the market right now

While the Google Nest line is still considered the new kid in town in the world of security cameras, the brand's last line of security cameras offers the ability to better protect your home at an affordable price. And with the holidays just around the corner, it may be time to explore which Google Nest camera might be worth adding to your list. With that in mind, we've created a list of the best Nest camera devices on the market right now. Here they are! Versatility matters Nest Cam (outdoor or indoor, battery) Staff Pick Google's 2021 edition of the Nest Cam is a smart, battery-powered security camera used indoors and outdoors. The camera tracks motion, people, vehicles, animals in a 130-degree field of view; saves a three-hour history of video clips; and records during a Wi-FI outage for up to one hour. You can also buy a waterproof cable separately for continuous power and enable the 24/7 ongoing video history feature. $180 at Best Buy $160 at Walmart $180 at B&H ...
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Samsung is betting big on Galaxy S22 shipments

Can Samsung ship 334 million phones in 2022 when it's so hard to build them, and are 334 million people going to be buying them? Earlier in the week The Elec, a South Korean tech news portal, got hold of some details about Samsung's plans for 2022. They're not that surprising; the company is expanding the number of Galaxy Z Flips it manufactures, its building and shipping more mid-range and entry-level devices, and there will be plenty of Galaxy S22s built and shipped. At least that's the plan. Where things get a little surprising is the actual breakdown of models Samsung plans to ship. Supposedly Samsung plans to ship 14 million Galaxy S22 phones, 8 million S22+ phones, and 11 million S22 Ultras. A few years ago, nobody would have tried to second guess any of this. Samsung builds phones and could seemingly sell them as fast as it built them. But then 2021 and the Galaxy S21 happened. Despite being one of the best Android phones, the Galaxy S21 sold in numbers that were 20% below ...
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The Pixel 6 mid-November patch could finally fix the fingerprint scanner

It looks like the biggest issue with the Pixel 6 might just have a real fix. What you need to know The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro just got their second November update, this one coming mid-month on November 16. Verizon provided a changelog that shows only one fix: the fingerprint scanner. Google typically only updates Pixel phones at the beginning of the month. Updated November 17 at 7:30am ET to include update specifics. Owners of the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro have already received one November update — bringing the phone up to date with the November 5, 2021 security patch — and now Google is sending out another update that appears to be addressing something else entirely. According to a Verizon support page, the Pixel 6 fingerprint scanner might finally be fixed. Simply put, it says: The current software update improves the performance of your device's fingerprint sensor. The mid-November update was originally spotted by 9to5Google and goes by the build number SD...
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Here's the steps for sending a Vudu gift card

With Vudu recently announcing that its TV and movie store is now available on the Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2, there's even more reason to share the gift of Vudu this holiday season. With that in mind, we've gathered all the information you'll need to send a Vudu gift card to your friends and family. How to send a Vudu gift card Vudu Gift Cards are now available as prepaid physical and electronic eCards and allow the gift card buyer to load a set value to buy or rent movies and TV shows on Vudu. Here are the steps for how to buy and send a VUDU gift card. Go to Vudu.com/giftcards. Select Buy Digital Gift Cards or Buy Physical Gift Cards. Choose which design you want to appear on the gift card. After previewing your selected design, choose Next step. Choose the amount you want on the card, how many cards you would like to purchase, and how you would like to send the gift card. Select Add to cart. If you don't like the gift card designs offered by Vudu, you can choo...
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Here are the best robot vacuums on the market right now

Using one of the best robot vacuums to help you keep your house clean may be one of the best decisions you can make. Over the past few years, robot vacuums have become much smarter; they last longer and clean better. Options like the Roborock S5 Max, which happens to top the list of our best robot vacuums, lets you control it with just your voice. It can be set to run on a schedule, always vacuums in tidy, back and forth lines, and its sensors help prevent it from bumping into everything. What are the best robot vacuums you can buy today? There are a LOT of great robot vacuum models available right now, and picking the right one can be a difficult task. We've done the research, though, and narrowed down all the picks into a concise list of only the top robot vacuum picks. Our complete list is below, but we believe that when you look for a single best overall pick, the Roborock S5 Max is the best robot vacuum on the market today for most people. It offers all the standard features yo...
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Motorola's next 5G mid-ranger could be a Pixel 5a rival with a 50MP camera

Rumors suggest the upcoming Moto G71 will be a lot more impressive than previous mid-range 5G phones from Motorola. What you need to know A new leak has revealed a few key specs of Motorola's rumored Moto G71. The mid-ranger is tipped to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 695 5G chipset. It could also come with a 6.43-inch OLED screen and a 50MP main camera. Last week, a leak revealed the design and key specs of Motorola's Moto G Power (2021) successor. A new report from TechnikNews claims the Lenovo-owned company is also working on a new mid-range Moto G series phone with 5G connectivity and Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 600 series chipset. As per the report, the upcoming mid-ranger is codenamed "Corfu5G" and could be launched as the Moto G71. It is said to feature a 6.43-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution. Under the hood, it will apparently be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 695 5G chipset. Announced last month, the Snapdragon 695 5G is a 6nm chip with support for up ...
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No need to flip out, just get a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 screen protector

There's no denying the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 is one of the best foldable phones available right now. The futuristic clamshell packs a lot of improvements over its predecessor from 2020. These include a more prominent external display, water resistance, and, more importantly, a gorgeous foldable OLED panel that comes pre-installed with a harder screen protector. That said, you can never be too careful with a device this fragile (and expensive), so here are some of the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 screen protectors you can get for your swanky new foldable. Fully covered Orzero Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 screen protector - 3 pack Staff Pick Orzero's soft TPU screen protectors guard the inside, outside, and even the hinge of your Galaxy Z Flip 3 from damage. These are made with an ultra-thin material for that barely-there feel and also have hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings that reduce smudges and fingerprints. $16 at Amazon $17 at Walmart Case-friendly protection LK Sams...
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Make your Chromebook more powerful with these docking stations

The best Chromebook docking stations can turn your laptop from on-the-go ready to comfortably cozy by plugging in a single USB-C cable. When you're home and want to use a clicky mechanical keyboard, an ergonomic mouse, or add a secondary display, docking stations are here to keep things tidy and organized. While you could maybe get by with some tiny USB-C hub, the cables are usually too short and leave your desk cluttered, while docking stations help keep things connected while staying out of your way. If you need to get your Chromebook connected, these are the best docking stations. Keep it tidy Plugable USB-C Mini Docking Station with 85W Charging Staff Pick This compact docking station won't take up much desk space, but it still has enough space for four USB-A peripherals, an HDMI monitor, Ethernet, and an audio jack for some speakers. It can also charge your Chromebook at full speed. $149 at Amazon $149 at Walmart Tall or flat, your choice Baseus 16-in-1 USB-C Dock ...
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How do Nest Renew and Nest Renew Premium differ?

Best answer: Nest Renew Basic is free and helps users understand the quality of the energy coming into their homes so they can make more informed decisions regarding their electricity usage. Nest Renew Premium is available for a fee and offers extra features, including Clean Energy Match. What is the difference between Nest Renew and Nest Renew Premium? When you're shopping for the best smart thermostat, you'll come across a wide range of options. One of the most popular products on the market is the Nest Thermostat. This easy-to-install thermostat offers a sleek design and an intuitive user interface that can be navigated through a series of taps and swipes. One of the best features is that you can control your thermostat via Google Assistant or the Google Home app from anywhere in the world. Additionally, users will have access to Nest Renew. The basic option is available to join for free and will provide important information regarding your home's energy. Nest Renew will tell ...
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Here are the Black Friday tech deals our readers are looking forward to

Consoles are hot this holiday season, but you may have some trouble getting your hands one one. What you need to know We asked what kind of tech deals our readers are looking for on Black Friday. Most readers are looking to purchase a console for the holidays. Computers, tablets, and smartphones were close behind in the tech deals readers are after. There are less than two weeks before we hit Black Friday, but there are plenty of deals to be had in the days leading up to the event. With so much to consider, we wanted to know what our readers were most interested in buying this holiday season. Most responses were for consoles like the PS5 and Nintendo Switch OLED. With the launch of the Switch model, the handheld has seemingly risen back to the top, and it's likely to be a popular option for shoppers as Black Friday Switch deals ramp up. However, the PS5 continues to be in short supply, and things may not get any better on Black Friday. Fortunately, while we're keeping out for ...
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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 review: Folding a Note

The true heir to the Note throne now comes in a more useful form factor. For its third generation of foldables, Samsung seemingly didn't hold anything back. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is Samsung's top-tier foldable phone, featuring more RAM, more storage, an upgraded outer screen, bigger (and more) screens, better cameras, new screen protectors, and support for the fabled S Pen. It may still have the same physical camera hardware as last year's Galaxy Z Fold 2, but software improvements make it a much better camera than the specs suggest. Despite the importance placed on quality-of-life features like the addition of water resistance — something consumers have come to take for granted in Android phones — the real revolutionary feature lies in the Z Fold 3's compatibility with the S Pen. As the unofficial replacement for the Galaxy Note series in 2021, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 form factor achieves a goal no Note phone has ever been able to: the feeling of writing in a digital notebook. Desp...
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Best Black Friday smart home deals 2021

Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year, is fast approaching, and it's expected that some of the most widely discounted products during this time are going to be smart home gadgets. One of the greatest things about all these sales is that it doesn't matter if you're looking for some of the best Alexa devices, awesome Google Home-related tech, or even more futuristic smart lights to build out the smart home of your dreams — it's all going to be on sale. We'll keep an eye out for the best Black Friday smart home deals as the season progresses and update this list accordingly, so be sure to check back for the latest. Jump to Black Friday Smart Home deals Nest Hub deals Amazon Echo deals Smart light deals Smart plug deals Smart Speaker deals Robot vacuum deals Home security deals Wi-Fi router deals Black Friday is a fantastic time to pick up smart home devices. So whether you're just getting started and need an excellent smart speaker to manage your devices, like a ...
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Forget the Pixel 6 Pro — the OnePlus 10 Pro design just leaked in full

Unlike its predecessor, the OnePlus 10 Pro may come with a triple-camera setup at the rear. What you need to know More detailed renders of the OnePlus 10 Pro have appeared. The new renders apparently give us a look at the "likely final version" of the OnePlus 10 Pro. It is expected to go on sale globally sometime in the first half of 2022. After giving us a "first look" at the OnePlus 10 Pro last week, Onleaks and Zouton have teamed up once again to publish more renders and a 360-degree video showcasing the "likely final version" of the upcoming OnePlus flagship. The renders suggest the OnePlus 10 Pro will look fairly similar to the OnePlus 9 Pro from the front. It will have a curved screen with a single hole-punch cutout in the top-left corner. On the back of the phone will be a large rectangular camera bump housing a total of three sensors. The phone also appears to have a rounded bottom and a flat top. While the phone's right side has an alert slider and the power b...
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PS5 restocks: Here are the latest PS5 stock updates & how to find one

PS5 stock is selling out fast, so be sure to have your credit card ready. Looking to buy a PS5? Well, so are millions of other people. It doesn't help that stock levels remain really tight, even nearly a year after its launch. Every time a retailer puts stock up for sale, it sells out super quickly. The longest we here at Android Central have seen PS5s stay in stock is between 15 to 20 minutes (often just a few minutes, though). That's also at random times, so finding a PS5 is a truly challenging task. Sony warned it will be hard to find stock throughout the year and well into 2022, but retailers promise more are coming and that Sony has secured additional semiconductor chips to make them. In our PS5 review, we called the system a technical marvel with a groundbreaking controller. And after spending a few months with the PS5, it's nearly impossible to go back to the PS4. Everything about the PS5 is better, from the games to the DualSense haptic feedback. So you'll want to experienc...
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Google Messages is testing a new feature to make sure you don't miss a chat

The messaging app may soon highlight unread messages with a dot. What you need to know Google is apparently working on a new way to highlight unread items in the Messages app. Unread chats will be indicated with a blue dot on the right side. The experimental feature is available to a small set of users for the time being. Unread chats in Google Messages are currently displayed in bold text to draw your attention to them each time you open the app. However, the messaging app may soon add a new way to highlight unread chats. Google Messages is testing a new method of displaying a blue dot to the right of an unread message's timestamp, according to Android Police. The latest change was discovered by a tipter in the app's most recent beta version (v10.6.240). If the feature sounds familiar, it's because it's not new. Google has long used this type of dot as notification badges on the homescreens of the best Android phones. This type of badge is also available on iOS devices, along...
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How do you digitally gift games on PS4 and PS5?

Best-answer: Sony's purchase policies don't allow retailers other than the PlayStation Store to sell digital game downloads. Because of this, you'll need to buy a gift card if you want to give your friend a digital game. How to buy a digital copy of a PS4 or PS5 game for your friend Unfortunately, you technically can't gift a digital copy of a game anymore, on PS4 or PS5. While this used to be an option, it's no longer possible. Now, if you want to give a digital game to a friend, you'll want to send them a PlayStation Store gift card so they can buy the game themselves. It's far from ideal, but it's the only real option. You can buy someone a physical game, but then you'll have to ship it to them, and they can't play it if they are using a PS5 Digital Edition. While inconvenient, if you truly want to buy a game for someone without them technically purchasing on the PlayStation Store, a physical copy will be your only option. Fortunately, if this is truly the way you want to do it...
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These are the best Chromebooks to buy for you and your family

The best Chromebook can provide a top-notch computing experience today and for years to come. They're perfect for students, grandparents, and anyone looking for a trouble-free laptop with long battery life. We've reviewed and rated the absolute best Chromebooks so that you can find the best value at any budget. Our buyer's guide will help you find the perfect Chrome OS laptop or tablet if you're switching from a Windows or Mac or if you're buying your first laptop entirely. What are the best Chromebooks you can buy today? The beauty of the Chromebook market is that there are so many options to choose from. If you want something specifically for portability and battery life, there are numerous dependable choices. Similarly, if you don't plan to move it from a desk and would prefer a big, beautiful display and plenty of CPU power to back it up, there are lots of options for you, too. Our top pick is the Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook, which hits all of the right markets for a laptop, inc...
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How to watch Formula 1’s 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix online from anywhere

The 2021 Formula 1 season is nearing its end with only four races left and this weekend teams and drivers will be in São Paulo, Brazil for the 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix and we have all the details on how you can watch the race on TV or online. The first Brazilian Grand Prix was held in 1973 when Formula 1 held a world championship race at the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace which is better known as Interlagos. Work began on the track all the way back in 1938 and its designers took inspiration from the Brooklands circuit in the UK, Roosevelt Raceway in the U.S. and Montlhery in France. Just like with many other tracks built before World War II, Interlagos features banked corners and drivers begin their lap on a sort of half oval. Interlagos has a total of 15 turns, a circuit length of 2.67 miles (4.3km) and drivers will complete 71 laps before finishing the 189.5 mile (305km) race. Mercedes' Valtteri Botas currently holds the best lap record at Interlagos with a time of one minute and t...
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Chrome for desktop may soon get a useful feature from its mobile version

Chrome Canary is testing a screengrabbing feature on desktop. What you need to know Google Chrome Canary now includes a new option for taking screenshots of web pages. It is the same feature that was released a few months ago on Chrome for Android. The new capability also allows you to edit and share your screengrabs. Taking a screenshot with Google Chrome on desktop is typically accomplished through the use of third-party extensions or applications rather than a native tool built into the browser. However, this will change in the future as a new capability is being tested on the most recent Chrome Canary builds. According to Techdows, Chrome Canary version 98 now includes two flags that enable you to take, edit, and share screengrabs on your laptop, including many of the best Chromebooks. The new feature is accessible via the share menu in Chrome Canary, as it is in the mobile version. To enable the screengrabber, go to chrome:/flags, search for "Desktop Screenshots" and "Des...
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Look out for these weapons in PUBG: New State

And you can customize them, too! Following the mobile release of anticipated battle royale PUBG: New State, players will be looking to gain a foothold in the game as soon as possible. Choosing the right gun can be the difference between an early death and a tasty chicken dinner, and with a large amount of weapons on offer, it can be hard to know which one to pick. From shotguns to assault rifles, these are the best weapons to use In PUBG: New state. Best weapons in PUBG: New State AKM The AKM is a relatively common weapon to pick up so warrants inclusion on this list due to its high rate of fire and ability to kill enemies very quickly in mid to close quarters. Admittedly, however, it's not the strongest assault rifle. Among the guns most commonly found in the game, the AKM is not one you should be swapping early. Grenade launcher The inclusion of such heavy weaponry as a grenade launcher on this list should be fairly self-explanatory. The sheer amount of damage possible he...
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Jabra Elite 85t vs. Elite 75t: Is it worth the upgrade?

More power Jabra Elite 85t $150 at Amazon $150 at Best Buy Pros Hybrid ANC Great sound quality Better call quality than Elite 75t Comfortable fit Responsive controls Wireless charging case Cons Larger frame More proprietary ear tips Taller and heavier case Jabra had a tough act to follow with the excellent Elite 75t, but the Elite 85t take things to another level by adding on previously missing features. They also sport improvements in some key areas that make them easy contenders for the best true wireless earbuds. You're looking at a capable pair of earbuds that can do just about everything. Hanging in Jabra Elite 75t $135 at Amazon $150 at Best Buy Pros Great sound quality Smaller frame, comfortable fit ANC support through firmware Smaller charging case Maintains great app support Less expensive Cons Fewer charges from case compared to Elite 85t No wireless charging Call quality not quite as good The Elite 75t have a successor, but that doesn't ma...
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Avoid the in-app purchases — these are the best premium Android games

Forget the ads and microtransactions and just play! There's something refreshing and low-stress about playing mobile games not entirely designed to get you to spend on in-app purchases. Honestly, I can say a lot for spending a couple of dollars upfront to get an entire game that you can enjoy from beginning to end without sitting through ads, being hounded to buy coins or gems, having to open crates, card packs, or whatever. I'll spare you the soapbox rant. Instead, we've gone through the Play Store and picked out a few games that cost a bit upfront but are worth every penny. So here are the best Android games without those pesky IAPs! The games The Banner Saga Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Dead Cells Downwell Evoland 1 and 2 Final Fantasy VIII Grimvalor Grand Theft Auto Holedown Huntdown JYDGE Mini Metro Monument Valley 1 & 2 Oxenfree Reigns: Her Majesty The Room series Stardew Valley Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic Thumper: Pocket Edition Unmaze Vampire: The...
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New Google Pay challenge can earn you up to $70 if you complete these tasks

The new 'Football Challenge' requires you to get four out of five cards to earn some money. What you need to know Google Pay has kicked off a new challenge where you can earn $25 by obtaining four cards. You can also get up to $45 by referring friends and family to the digital payments app. The football-themed challenge is available on the app's home page and runs until November 22. Google Pay has a brand new challenge if you're up for some extra cash, giving you the opportunity to earn $25 when you collect any four out of five cards and up to $45 for referrals. The new "Football Challenge" is a follow-up to the previous "Spring Cleaning" event, which demanded the same requirements from participants earlier this year. To begin, you must first sign up for Google Pay rewards and then begin collecting the required number of cards. The #FootballChallenge has officially kicked off! 🏈 Get $25 when you collect any 4 football cards and up to $45 for referring friends. https://t.co...
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Poll: What Black Friday tech deals are you looking for?

Some items may be harder to come by this holiday. Black Friday is fast approaching, which means amazing deals on tech are incoming. While we know that plenty of our readers have already started (and finished) their holiday shopping, some like to wait until Black Friday to get everything done. There are bound to be some impressive offers on all sorts of items, but we want to know what you're most looking forward to buying, whether for yourself or your loved ones. What Black Friday tech deals are you looking for? Here at Android Central, we try to make things easy for our readers, so we've been keeping up with many of the great deals leading up to Black Friday weekend. Many retailers have already started their sales or announced their deals, making it easy to plan ahead. We're expecting some impressive Black Friday deals on Android smartphones, especially on Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, and possible Pixel devices. You also can't go wrong with some accessories and wearables, which ...
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