Droid Life

Not That It Matters, But Why Did Galaxy 'Note' Have to Die?

Tim — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 08:48:40 +0000

When we first saw renders for the Galaxy S22 Ultra, then got the device in hand, it's very clear that this phone's hardware is much more related to that of the Galaxy Note line than it is the Galaxy S line. It has the ultra-rounded display, flat top and bottom, plus a slot for the S Pen. Excluding the camera layout, if I closed my eyes and was holding the S22 Ultra and the Note 20 Ultra, I don't think I'd be able to differentiate the two very quickly. And while I'm not sure that it ultimately matters, I don't see why Samsung had to kill the 'Galaxy Note' line when it's clearly very much alive in the S22 Ultra.

Watch: First 10 Things to Do With Galaxy S22 Ultra

The first report that Samsung would skip a new Galaxy Note phone in 2021 appeared in December of 2020, which was way ahead of when we'd normally start talking about new Note devices, as they tend to come later in a calendar year. Later that same month, Samsung said that the Note line had not been discontinued, but as we all know now, the Note line is dead and the Galaxy S line has adopted its hardware and all of its features.

Galaxy Note 20 Ultra

We would love to know why Samsung opted for this route. In my mind, the Galaxy S22 Ultra is such a different thing from the S22 and S22+, having the same moniker doesn't work at all. The S22 Ultra has the S Pen and shares no hardware characteristics with its siblings. On top of that, dedicated Galaxy Note fans or even typical consumers will likely know that the Galaxy Note line comes with a stylus. It's sorta in the name, you know? There's nothing to indicate that the S22 Ultra has an S Pen and is technically the Note 22 Ultra. Now, we have Samsung spending what is surely to be millions of dollars on advertising and educating consumers that the S22 Ultra has an S Pen. Again, I'll stress that maybe this stuff only matters to me, but I just don't get why the Note name had to die. The market already knew what the Note line is. Why kill it?

Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro Codenames Revealed With New Tensor Chip

Kellen — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 11:47:31 +0000

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are without a doubt the first phones from Google in a few years that give off a, "We really went for it this time" vibe. While neither are without flaws, they set the stage for Google to continue to go for it in the future with follow-up phones, like a Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro. Today, we're learning some of the first concrete details about the 2022 Pixel phones. Google has apparently left important information buried within the Android 13 Developer Preview 1 that's related to the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, and the folks at 9to5Google found it. I don't know why Google keeps doing this with apps and builds of Android, but they clearly don't care if the information gets out early. What we're learning today is that the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro will likely be codenamed "Cheetah" and "Panther," and that they'll run the next generation Google Tensor chip with the model number GS201. Each phone is likely to connect to the world through a Samsung Exynos modem under model number g5300b, which could be a yet-to-be-revealed Exynos Modem 5300. What should you take from all of this? The "Cheetah" and "Panther" names are interesting only because Google has gone feline for the Pixel 7 it seems. That marks a change from the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, which used "Oriole" and "Raven," two birds, after years and years of Pixel and Nexus phones featuring aquatic codenames. The codenames don't really mean anything in the grand scheme, but these are things we've tracked for the better part of a decade. As for the new Google Tensor chip (GS201), details of the capabilities of this chip are not yet known, but assuming improvements over the original Tensor (GS101) in the Pixel 6 seems safe. It also signals that Google didn't do a one-off chip and then abandon ship, which is always a concern when Google tries something new. A codenamed of "Cloudripper" has been connected to GS201 as another name to follow for an updated Tensor chip, though it may just be a testing board. And finally, for that new Exynos modem, there isn't anything to talk about here other than it shows that Google is likely continuing to work closely with Samsung for an upgraded Tensor, seeing as it'll be attached to an Exynos modem. The modem in the Pixel 6 series isn't great, so here's hoping an Exynos 5300 steps up to the plate with improvements. Pixel 7 news coming in hot and we love it.

Galaxy S22 Pre-Orders are Headed Your Way!

Tim — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 08:40:39 +0000

It's Friday, so why not the end the week on a high note? According to a couple of emails and tweets we've received, Galaxy S22 units are headed out to those pre-ordered, with some being from Samsung and others being from T-Mobile. That's a good sign that many folks should have their phones in-hand by official launch day, that still being February 25.

Giveaway: Win a free Galaxy S22!

Kellen and I are shooting to have reviews up next week. If you've missed it, we've unboxed both devices and also gone over the first 10 things you should do. We also hosted a little #AMA for fun. Have you received tracking information for your device yet? Has it shipped? Has a label been created at least? Keep us posted! You should note that you still have time to pre-order the device and get an extra $50 in Samsung store credit if you use the link below. Galaxy S22 Pre-Order Link ($50 bonus credit)

Heads Up, Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Getting Minor OTA Update

Tim — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 11:57:41 +0000

Google has begun to push a second February update to owners of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, though, no one seems certain as to what's inside. The OTA has already begun hitting devices, weighing in at a whopping 10MB. That's not big enough to bring about anything major, so we'll just take it as a sign that Google continues to work through software bugs on these devices. The new build is listed as SQ1D.220205.004, still featuring the February security patch. Both OTA and factory image files are available via Google's website for manual download and flashing. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go. We'll update once we know what's exactly in here. Links:

Verizon Galaxy Note 9 Gets February Patch

Tim — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 11:24:50 +0000

Verizon is now pushing out a fresh update to Galaxy Note 9 owners. Inside, you'll find the February security patch. The software is now labeled as N960USQS9FVB1, and beyond the patch, we're not seeing anything else inside. If you still rock the Note 9 and spot something, let us know. Raise your hand if the Note 9 is still your daily driver. // Verizon

Verizon's Call Filter App is Honeypottin' Robocalls

Tim — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 10:40:52 +0000

Verizon's Call Filter has surpassed 20 billion spam calls blocked. That's a lot of expiring extended car warranties. This week, Verizon announced new stuff for Call Filter, including a Honeypot feature that tracks robocallers and reports them, never to bug us again. For Honeypots, Verizon has created lines across the network designed specifically to identify and observe illegal robocall campaigns. Verizon then shares the honeypot data with Industry Traceback Group, an entity that works with federal and state law enforcement agencies to stop robocalls. Additionally, the Call Filter app itself is getting a new look, providing new options to filter unwanted calls. As detailed, postpaid customers can send spam calls to voicemail or decline it before it even reaches the device. Directly in the app, customers can now manage and update their Share Name ID, which lets other Verizon customers see exactly who is calling. Call Filter remains free to Verizon customers, so if you aren't taking advantage, maybe you should? // Verizon

This Trick Could Speed Up Your Google Assistant

Tim — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 08:39:33 +0000

If you're looking to boost the speed of your Google Assistant, you can attempt this neat little trick that allows you to delete devices from your Assistant's memory. Google says this will will "free up space and improve your experience." Shared to social media by our friend @MishaalRahman, all you need to do is head into the Google app, go to Settings, tap Google Assistant, scroll down to Devices, then select Remove Unused Devices. You will then see a list of all Assistant devices that you haven't used in 3+ months. As you can see below, I had a few devices that needed to be removed. If you make a mistake and need to add a device back, simply go to that device and set up Google Assistant again. It's no sweat, and ultimately, should improve your Assistant experience. Let us know your results. // @MishaalRahman

Google Assistant Keeps Saying "Sorry, I Didn't Understand" to Smart Home Commands (Updated: Fixed)

Kellen — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 21:17:46 +0000

My evening routine typically includes talking to multiple Google Home or Assistant-equipped devices throughout my house to adjust our Nest Thermostat and lights (dim, on and off) to get my kid ready for bed. Tonight, the situation involving the lights did not go as planned and it seems I'm not alone. For many folks, asking the Google Assistant for help from both phone and smart home device (like a Google Home), is returning a "Sorry, I didn't understand" message. The thing is, for those experiencing the issue, the commands are ones that we all use every single day, sometimes multiple times per day. After running into my issue this evening, I jumped into the GoogleHome subreddit and to the official Nest Community to see if others were having problems. There are numerous threads where folks are hearing nothing but, "Sorry, I didn't understand." It's hard to pinpoint exactly what the problem is because some stuff works and other stuff doesn't. For me, I can't get any of my Philips Hue lights to adjust or turn on/off from my Galaxy S22 Ultra, Lenovo smart home, Google Home Max, or Nest Hub (2nd Gen). Pulling up a Eufy camera feed won't work either, but a Nest Cam will. I was able to do everything without issue from the Nest Hub Max in my office, though. Also, adjusting the thermostat is mostly fine, just not the lights and some cameras. In some of the threads I linked above, there are numerous reports of Hue lights having issues, including Routines that have lights within them. I've also seen folks who are having similar issues with just about every gadget connected to Google Assistant. Another odd piece of this puzzle comes from the responses that Google returns after it says the "Sorry" message. You can see below that it heard me correctly when I tried to have it adjust my living room lights to 75% and then offered several similar commands it thinks might work. But tapping on those or saying those returns the original "Sorry" message. So maybe this is a back-end Google Assistant or Cloud issue? Again, tough to know.

If you are running into issues with your smart home, let us know. We'll also see what we can find out and update this post.

UPDATE 2/17: Everything is back to working in my house, but I can see while browsing through Google Assistant's support community that not everyone has been as fortunate. We'll continue to monitor. Has your smart home returned to normal?
UPDATE 2/17 (11:43AM): A Google spokesperson confirmed there was an issue messing with some devices equipped with Google Assistant and have fixed it. Below is their statement:

“We're aware that there was an issue impacting Assistant powered devices. It has been fixed and Assistant is working as it previously did.”

Let us know if for some reason your issues haven't cleared up.

T-Mobile Dominates Major 5G Report, But Here Comes Verizon and AT&T

Kellen — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 12:46:00 +0000

Up until the end of last year, the subject of 5G in the US was one of our least favorite topics to try and show any interest in. We had been told by Qualcomm and its carrier friends that 5G was "here" more times than I can keep track of, yet 5G made almost no impact on anyone's life until 2021. If there was an impact, it was in rising costs for devices who were forced into 5G hardware no one could use and the potential for wireless plans to get more expensive. But at the end of last year, we really started to see T-Mobile push its mid-band 5G out to the masses and the drama surrounding AT&T and Verizon's C-Band push was at least a story worth following, knowing how important that spectrum would be in the long run. 5G actually showed up last year and the latest report from RootMetrics tells us who took the 5G crown to end it. If you've been paying much attention to 5G news lately, you shouldn't be shocked that T-Mobile is the current 5G king. The mid-band 5G (the good 5G) that they picked up in their acquisition of Sprint has been deployed and it greatly helped the network experience they offer. In the three major categories that RootMetrics tracks (availability, speed, and reliability), T-Mobile took the crown in two of them (availability and speed), arguably the most important two. Verizon nabbed top honors in reliability.

For its reports, RootMetrics looks at 125 cities, checks those three categories above to pick a winner for that city, and then tallies up the total city wins to come up with an overall winner for each. For 5G availability, T-Mobile won 83 cities, while AT&T won in 62 and Verizon won in 6. For 5G Speed, the numbers will seem confusing, but T-Mobile won in 63 cities, with Verizon grabbing wins in 8 and AT&T grabbing 0. They pick winners in speed based on a best-case 5G scenario and there were apparently only 71 cities who even qualify, hence the math there. And finally, for 5G Reliability, Verizon won 93 cities, AT&T won 67, and T-Mobile won 19. Again, the big story here is T-Mobile's push of mid-band 5G that both reaches large areas and increases download speeds. T-Mobile has 5G in a lot of places today, plus it's really fast. AT&T and Verizon just don't have mid-band 5G everywhere, yet, but they'll try to fix that starting this year with C-Band. Verizon's C-Band launch is off to a great start while AT&T is taking things a bit slower. A year from now, reports like this could look a lot different, although T-Mobile doesn't seem to think so. https://twitter.com/NevilleRay/status/1488983116282613760

Cricket Wireless Customers Get Free Access to Boingo WiFi

Tim — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 11:07:13 +0000

Cricket Wireless announced this week that customers are now getting free access to Boingo Wireless hotspots for WiFi access across the country. You read that right -- free WiFi. You'll find Boingo in places such as airports, sports stadiums, and other places where large groups of people tend to gather. Reading Cricket's release, it sounds incredibly simple to take advantage. So simple that the user may not even need to ever do anything, as the connection is going to happen automatically in most cases. According to the release, "It’s simple to use since Cricket and Boingo are automating these connections behind-the-scenes. Customers living, working or visiting areas covered by these expanded WiFi access points can now make calls and get super-fast internet with secure two-way authentication in more places." You can't really beat free WiFi, especially in places like the airport. I remember flying to JFK every now and then, having to pay for Boingo internet access. What a joke. This new connection begins today, so if you're on Cricket, be on the lookout for that free Boingo. // Cricket Wireless

Windows 11 Gets 1,000 Android Apps in the US

Kellen — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 10:12:38 +0000

Microsoft has been talking about the arrival of Android apps on Windows 11 for some time now. We knew the situation involved the Amazon Appstore and Android apps from there running "naturally" on Windows through the Microsoft Store. Today, if you are in the US and running Windows 11, you can start to experience it all. Microsoft announced via blog post that a bunch of the promised experiences for Windows 11 are now rolling out, from taskbar enhancements to clock placements on multi-monitor setups and a couple of revamped apps. But really, the big deal for us is this new Android app integration. With the Amazon Appstore now on Windows 11, users can find over 1,000 apps and games that can be installed and run, almost like they were "a part of Windows." Apps like Audible, Kindle, Subway Surfers, and Khan Academy are all there, just don't expect a bunch of Google apps, since this is Amazon's Appstore.

To get Amazon's Appstore up and running on your PC, you'll open up the Microsoft Store, head into the Library tab, and then click the "Get Updates" button. This should initiate a bunch of updates to Microsoft services that bring in the Android app support, at least that's how it looked when I just updated. Once done and the Microsoft Store re-opens, you should see a big splash screen at the top to showcase the Appstore's arrival. After updating, I can tell you that there are indeed Android apps there, as you can see above. However, finding more Android apps wasn't easy. It seems like Microsoft is simply pushing them together with regular PC apps and so you really need to look for the "mobile app" tag under the title to know what you are getting. Still, this could be cool, as long as Amazon's selection of apps is decent. I can't say I've looked at the Amazon Appstore in a solid 10 years. If you've updated, tell us what you are finding.

Verizon Pushes Updates to Select Samsung, LG Phones

Tim — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 09:21:11 +0000

Verizon is shipping out security patch updates to a group of Samsung and LG devices, with the Samsung phones getting February's patch and LG's getting January's plus a few fixes in addition to the patch. For Samsung, the Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Note 20, and Galaxy Note 20 Ultra are getting the February patch. For LG, the G8 and Wing are getting January's patch, as well as performance improvements for hotspot provisioning and preloaded app performance enhancements. All good stuff, for sure.

Updated Build Numbers

Z Fold 2: F916USQU2FVAB
Note 20: N981USQU2EVA9
Note 20 Ultra: N986USQU2EVA9
G8: G820UM30d
Wing: F100VM20c

Go snag them updates, folks! // Verizon

Galaxy S22 Ultra: First 10 Things To Do!

Kellen — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 14:14:41 +0000

Once your Samsung Galaxy S22 or Galaxy S22 Ultra shows up, we know exactly what should do first. Well, if anything, we think we know the settings and areas of the phone you should try to customize out of the box to start dominating your new world. In this video, we dive into the First 10 Things To Do with your Galaxy S22 Ultra when launch day arrives. Should you get your new Galaxy S22 or S22 Ultra, you may as well fire this up and walk-through it step by step to make sure not a proper setting is missed. Once done, you should be set going forward without the need to touch most of this stuff ever again. We're talking about settings like your lock screen security, always-on display, the quickest way to open the camera or take a note, setting up your home screen and Quick Settings area, all of the best display settings, some advanced features, and the basics on this next-level camera. I know this is a long one, but they all are. You guys know what to expect from these "First 10 Things" videos at this point. Feel free to skip around as you see fit and then enjoy your new phone (once you get it).

Shop Galaxy S22 Ultra and get $250 in credit

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oH3n6NR7u6Q

This Is One of the Best Android 12 Clock Widget Apps You Can Get

Tim — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 12:52:09 +0000

Android 12 introduced a handful of updated clock widgets, designed to not just look good, but take advantage of Material You's color theming. While nice, the stock Clock app only offers a few widgets and there's no way to customize them further than what the system does. This is where my new favorite app, Android 12 Clock Widgets, comes in handy. With this app, which is free to download, you can greatly tweak the clock widgets that came with Android 12. You can change shapes, text fonts, animations, colors, and so much more. You can even pay $1 and unlock premium themes, already laid out and ready to make your home screen look like a piece of art. Tweaking a design and making it yours is easy enough. Simply choose which widget style you want to custom, then dive into what you want to change. You can choose your desired animation, change the colors, apply dynamic theming, and also apply a custom background. There's not much you can't change here, making this one of the best dollars you can spend on Google Play. Follow the link below and give it a go. You don't need to pay to get a sweet widget, such as the one I'm using, so give it a look.

Google Play Link

NVIDIA Pushes 9.0.1 Fixer Update to SHIELD TV Units

Tim — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:09:02 +0000

The last SHIELD TV upgrade, labeled as 9.0, had a few issues. Rumored to be storage permission changes introduced in Android 11, many owners' Plex media servers came crashing down, plus a handful of other apps and services struggled following the update. This week, NVIDIA is back with a fixer update, labeled as Experience Upgrade 9.0.1. You can view the changelog below.

What's Inside

Resolves PLEX Media Server issue
Fixes storage permissions on media player, file browser, and emulator apps
Fixes stutter when playing interlaced content

This update is rolling out immediately to all devices. Go snag it.

Verizon Outage Affecting All of Georgia, Other Areas

Tim — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 13:12:46 +0000

We're hearing from readers, and confirming via Down Detector, Verizon is down essentially across the entire state of Georgia. Verizon hasn't yet made a statement, but we can see that the official Verizon Support account on Twitter is working overtime, fielding all of the incoming complaints. The outage appears to affect calls, texts, and mobile data. Fingers crossed for our Verizon friends that their service is restored in a timely fashion. Probably just need to toggle airplane mode on/off. It's usual something minor like that. Cheers gcforreal!

Google Messages is the Default on the Galaxy S22

Kellen — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:59:28 +0000

When setting up this Galaxy S22 Ultra review unit last week, I noticed that Google Messages was set as the default out of the box. I thought, "That's cool, one less thing to change" and moved on. I should have told you guys it seems, as tech media has decided this morning that it is a very big deal. So let's talk about it! Should you buy a Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, or Galaxy S22 Ultra, out of the box, Google Messages will be your default messaging app. While Samsung's Messages app is still pre-loaded for whatever reason, you would have to choose it as the default if you want to use it for texting and all that fun. This is all important news for a couple of reasons. On one hand, it helps set a standard text messaging app across Android in the US if Samsung is pushing it. Samsung is the big player in Android and what they do has a major impact. Going forward, if you buy phones, the chances of it having Google Messages by default are likely. And that leads to the second reason this is good, which is RCS. As you all know, RCS or Rich Communication Services is the future of text messaging on Android phones. It allows for a more robust texting experience that upgrades SMS and MMS. It's fine and definitely an improvement over what so many are used to from texting, assuming they don't own an iPhone. With Google Messages the default, basically everyone who buys a Galaxy S22 will have RCS turned on right away and can then have better chats. Typically, I would also suggest this is a big deal because Google can update Messages through Google Play, giving you new features more often, but Samsung appears to have skinned it somehow. That could impact the way it is updated, unless Samsung can simply update it regularly through their monthly security patches. They did this on the Galaxy S21 and there didn't seem to be an issue. Do note that Samsung already made this move last year outside of the US. And there's your big news of this Monday. // 9to5Google

Verizon's 5G Home Internet is Soon Expanding to New Markets

Tim — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:58:39 +0000

Did anyone catch that awesome Cable Guy ad during the "Big Game" last night? Not-so-great movie, but funny commercial. If you didn't see it, the commercial has Jim Carrey reprise his role as "Cable Guy," an obsessive, creepy individual who has a hard time not stalking his customers. However, once he learns that a particular apartment is equipped with Verizon's 5G Home Internet service, he decides to move on to another potential victim. You can watch the ad here, it's pretty good. Anyway, Verizon announced this week that this service will continue to spread across the US, with the next markets soon to be Boise, ID, El Paso, TX, Grand Rapids, MI, and Panama City, FL. It's expected that these markets will go live this week. Looking further ahead, Verizon says that Baltimore, MD will also get access to 5G Home Internet next month. For Verizon customers, 5G Home is an attractive offer, as its cost is discounted should you already be on an Ultra Wideband Unlimited plan from the carrier. You can view 5G Home plan and pricing here. Jim Carrey is still very much awesome. Did anyone catch him on The Weeknd's new album? What a trip. // Verizon

TAG Heuer's New Connected E4 Wear OS Watch is Its Hottest Yet

Kellen — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:09:10 +0000

TAG Heuer is still making Wear OS watches that are priced in a realm most of us would never consider. We're talking about $1,800+ price tags for technology that typically doesn't wear well with time. But they are clearly selling enough to keep making new ones, and so here we are in 2022 welcoming in the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4, the best looking TAG Wear OS watch to date. The new Connected Calibre E4 comes in two sizes this time, a 42mm model and a 45mm model. The 45mm model looks a lot like previous Connected watches, with a tech-focused design that probably isn't for everyone. That said, the new 42mm is a really pretty watch at a great size and with a high-end finish that would make for an excellent timepiece, assuming you have the cash to buy one. The Connected E4 in 42mm features a Snapdragon Wear 4100+ chip, 330mAh battery, 1.28" round OLED display (416x416), GPS, NFC, heartrate sensor, Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, and 50 meter water resistance, all wrapped in a steel polished and brushed case. The display also has domed sapphire crystal, plus you'll find two pushers surrounding a rotating crown.

The Connected E4 in 45mm features almost the exact same specs, along with a bigger 430mAh battery, flat sapphire crystal covering, 1.39" OLED display (454x454), and rubber crown. Its case is also mostly steel, but it does have that smartwatch-y vibe that previous Connected watches showcased, with both black and silver elements in a somewhat boxier shape. Both watches run Wear OS 2 right now, but TAG is promising an update to Wear OS 3 at some point, whenever Google makes it available. There is a big focus on this watch being able to handle your fitness goals and activities, with heartrate tracking and a series of wellness and fitness apps. I'm not sure it'll give you advanced metrics, but could get you the basics. Oh, there will also be lots of exclusive watch faces, which is fun. Overall, the Connected E4 looks like a premium Wear OS experience that you would expect to pay for. So to get one, you'll have to fork out at least $1,800 for the 42mm version or $2,050 for the 45mm version. Both watches go on sale March 10 and pre-orders are open now. Someone buy me that 42mm model.

Shop TAG Heuer Connected E4

Ask Us Anything, Galaxy S22 Lineup In-Hand

Tim — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 11:09:07 +0000

Samsung was kind enough to ship us over the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra, and considering launch day isn't until February 25, we wanted to take this opportunity to field any potential questions you might have concerning these two devices.

Pre-Order Galaxy S22

We have already unboxed both devices, so while we're preparing additional content like Tips & Tricks and camera samples, we'd love to share any insight we can on these phones. Don't bother asking about battery life yet, as it's too early for any judgement there, but we can discuss anything else. We can talk hardware, software, features, or anything else you might be curious about. Shoot those questions below. Kellen and I will both hang out in the comments and tackle any incoming questions.

Here's an Extra $50 Credit Deal for Pre-Ordering a Galaxy S22

Kellen — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 09:12:32 +0000

For those who didn't take part in the reservation system that Samsung opened prior to the Galaxy S22's Unpacked event, you likely missed out on the bonus $50 credit that was going to be available during pre-orders. This bonus gave you the opportunity to spend more on accessories like cases or earbuds or even a Galaxy Watch 4, without having to pay out of pocket. I have good news - you can still get that bonus $50 credit. This link here is somewhat of a magical link that will get you the extra $50 in credit to spend, just like if you had placed a reservation. With an extra $50 credit, a Galaxy S22 order would now have $150 to spend at the time of purchase, the Galaxy S22+ would have $200, and the Galaxy S22 Ultra would have a wild $250 in credits. For S22 Ultra orders, you would have enough credit to get a Galaxy Watch 4 for free and have $20 leftover to spend on something else. Pretty great deal. On top of the extra $50, Samsung is still offering a free upgrade in storage from 128GB to 256GB on all models, as well as a free upgrade from 256GB to 512GB for the S22 Ultra. And of course, the best-in-industry trade-in program that Samsung runs is there, giving you up to $900 off instantly depending on the device you have to trade. I'm not sure how long this extra $50 credit deal is good for, but it's still working for now. Galaxy S22 Pre-Order Link ($50 bonus credit)

Even Galaxy Watch 4 is Getting Four Years of Android Upgrades

Tim — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 08:42:37 +0000

While it's great to get new hardware from Samsung, the most significant thing that the company announced this week is a commitment to four years of Android OS upgrades and five years of security patches for nearly its entire Android device ecosystem. Now with the company posting additional information, we can also confirm that even the Galaxy Watch 4 lineup is eligible for this longer software support. In a post that goes over Samsung's commitment, the company says that they have seen Galaxy owners use the same phone for longer periods, so this move will greatly benefit those users. Below you can view the full list of devices that are eligible for the four years of Android upgrades and fives years of security patches. Do note, Samsung does not list the watches as eligible for the 5 years of security support, only the Android OS upgrades.

Eligible Galaxy Devices

Galaxy S Series: Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra, S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S21 FE, and upcoming S series devices
Galaxy Z Series: Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3, and upcoming Z series devices
Galaxy A Series: Upcoming select A series devices
Galaxy Tablets: Galaxy Tab S8, S8+, S8 Ultra, and upcoming Tab S series devices
Galaxy Watch: Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch4 Classic, and upcoming Galaxy Watch series devices

For additional details, please view our previous post on the subject. Samsung, you've earned the 👑. // Samsung

Android 13 is Officially "Tiramisu"

Kellen — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 11:18:46 +0000

I know this was previously rumored, but with today's Android 13 Developer Preview 1 release, Google has confirmed that its next dessert name for Android is "Tiramisu." Not that it matters, since Google doesn't use dessert names any longer in any official, public way, it's just that the tech bro in us is always curious. Android 13 will be the marketed name, yet you can refer to it as the cool kids do, if you want. Please don't, though. The change to no dessert names started with Android 10 alongside the re-branding of Android. We still got dessert names from 10 through 12 and now 13, they just weren't a big part of the launch. They were often revealed in subtle ways or after the fact by Googlers. Android 10 was Queen Cake, Android 11 was Red Velvet Cake, and Android 12 was Snow Cone. To see for yourself that Android 13 is Tiramisu, you'd have to flash the new Android 13 DP1 build that dropped today, then head into Settings>About phone and tap on the Android version.

Android 13 is Here With Its First Developer Preview for Pixel Phones

Kellen — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 10:00:15 +0000

This one feels about a week earlier than expected, but hey, we'll take it - Android 13 is here! Yep, a day after we got a new Android 12L build and the Galaxy S22, Google just gave us Android 13. As you probably guessed, this first release is Android 13 Developer Preview 1. This is the first of several Developer Preview builds before Android 13 Betas arrive in April. This new version of Android 13 should hit a pretty stable stage by June and July before releasing around August or September. All of that is very on-schedule compared to previous years.

Android 13 Release Schedule

For now, Google is telling us that Android 13 will continue to push familiar themes in privacy and security, as well as help developers take advantage of Android on bigger screens like tablets and foldables. It really sounds like Google will use Android 12L as a one-off build to then merge its big screen focus into Android 13. The first Android 13 build is:

Release date: February 10, 2022 Build: TPP1.000000.000 Emulator support: x86 (64-bit), ARM (v8-A) Security patch level: February 2022

As for what's new in Android 13, we have an entire post of new features you should check out that we'll be updating the minute we have Android 13 up and running on a device. But on a top-line level, Google is giving developers a way to utilize Material You dynamic theming with icons, so with Android 13, icons beyond Google's can theme. Google is also adding a new photo picker for sharing photos and videos, a nearby WiFi permission that doesn't require device location, prompts for adding Quick Settings tiles from apps, per-app language preferences, and there are even more modules that can be updated through Google Play system updates (Project Mainline). Want to test out Android 13 Developer Preview 1? Keep in mind that this preview release is "for developers only" and likely isn't that stable. There will be bugs. You probably shouldn't flash this on your one and only phone that you rely on and expect things to play out well. If you have a spare Pixel phone around or just don't care, well, you can get into Android 13 Developer Preview 1 by flashing a system image. Supported devices for now include the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6, Pixel 5a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 4a, Pixel 4 XL, and Pixel 4. Sorry, Pixel 3a owners. You'll find instructions on how to flash a Developer Preview here. The Android 13 DP1 factory images are here. Wanting the Android 13 Beta? It'll come with time. Give Google a couple of Developer Previews and then the Android Beta Program will open, probably in April. For now, again, this is developer-only stuff and requires manual work to get running. Android 13!

How to Get Android 13 Developer Preview 1 on Your Google Pixel Phone

Kellen — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 10:00:14 +0000

We've warned you in a couple of separate posts that downloading and installing the Android 13 Developer Preview 1 on your Pixel phone is probably not a good idea right now, unless you are a developer. Google made it crystal clear in their announcement that they'll open Android 13 up to more in Beta builds, probably around April. But look, we know you and that you can't help yourself. So if you really, really, really need to get Android 13 DP1 on your Pixel 6 or Pixel 5 or Pixel 4 or the other supported Pixel devices, you can do so. You will need to manually flash through adb at the moment, but if this is what you must do, you can manage a couple of commands.

READ: What's new in Android 13 Developer Preview 1?

How to install Android 13 Developer Preview 1

Supported Google Pixel phones: in order to run Android 13 DP1, you need to own a supported Pixel phone. At this time, Google is providing the preview for the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 5a, Pixel 5, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4, and Pixel 4 XL.
Factory image or OTA update? Google is making the update to Android 13 DP1 available as either a factory image or OTA file. The differences there are that updating with a factory image requires that you wipe all data from your phone (like a factory reset) and unlock your phone’s bootloader, potentially making it less secure. If you don’t want to do that, the OTA file can be sideloaded if your Pixel is currently running Android 11. For non-developers, going the OTA/sideload route is probably the best option.
Download the Android 13 DP1 factory image or OTA file: This may change, but to start, you’ll need to download the Android 13 DP1 factory image or OTA file for your specific phone. You can find the newest files from Google’s Android 13 developer page: factory images | OTA files
Instructions to flash the Android 13 DP1 file: To start, it looks like you’ll have to manually flash the DP1 factory image or OTA files from above through adb. There are instructions all over the internet on how to do this, including this set from us – flash factory image or flash OTA file.

And that’s really it. You need a supported phone. You need to download the correct Android 13 DP1 file for your phone. You then flash that file onto your phone using a computer. Enjoy, risk takers!

What's New in Android 13 Developer Preview 1?

Kellen — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 10:00:12 +0000

Many of you will have the itch to flash Android 13 Developer Preview 1 and play with all that's new. That's just who we are around here. We like to tinker with new stuff, especially when it comes to new versions of Android. However, stay calm, try to hold off from doing so, as this version is very much "for developers only." We are about to dive in now and will update this post to let you know all that is new. And hopefully once we've done that, you can decide whether or not this first preview is right. Ready? Here's all that is new in Android 13 Developer Preview 1.

RELATED: How to install Android 13 Developer Preview 1

Themed app icons for non-Google apps

After first introducing a system-level icon theming feature in Android 12 that only covered Google's own apps, we are getting support for non-Google apps in Android 13. Google is asking developers to make a couple of tweaks to their icons to allow for Material You theming to take place, plus they are working with device makers to add icon themes as well. For now, this is a Pixel-only feature.

Per-app language preferences

Google is adding support through a new API to allow apps to get or set a user's preferred language. The use case here is for multilingual users who may use a different language depending on the app. This feature was previously rumored back in December and is indeed official now.

New photo picker and API

As a way to "help protect photo and video privacy of users," Google is adding a new system photo and video picker that should securely allow users to share items. The idea here is that the new picker will let you share stuff without an app needing permission to view all of your media. What's really cool is that Google says it can push this new photo picker through a Google Play system update for devices running Android 11 or higher. So while this has been announced for Android 13, a whole bunch of people not with Android 13 will get it and be able to more securely share media.

Nearby device permission for WiFi

Google is adding a new (and soon-to-be-required) WiFi-related permission that allows devices to discover and connect to nearby devices over WiFi without needing location permission. The problem this solves was one where an app wanted to connect to nearby WiFi, but didn't actually need device location - this should fix that. Those are the big, official changes. Stay tuned as we update this post with the stuff we're finding in Android 13 on a device.

Android 13 is "Tiramisu"

In case you were wondering the internal dessert name: Android 13 is indeed "Tiramisu."

Android 13 Gets Android 12L UI Elements

This shouldn't come as a surprise, but so far, most of the UI element changes we are seeing in Android 13 DP1 are all from Android 12L. And that makes sense, since 12L is a step up from 12, Google wouldn't backtrack on these changes. So we're seeing things like the new wallpaper shortcut switcher (above)from the home screen, the new multi-window UI teaks (below), and that weirdly centered text in the notification shade when it's empty (below).

3-button navigation gets an Assistant option

Because Google really wants you to use the power button to fire up Google Assistant, they are giving 3-button navigation users an option to turn on or off Assistant with a long press on home. This wasn't previously an option until Android 13 DP1.

Flashlight joins Quick Tap line-up

Quick Tap or "Quick tap to start actions" added a toggle flashlight option in this first Android 13 DP1 build. This does as you probably guessed - lets you double tap your phone to turn on the flashlight. I might actually use quick tap now. We are updating this.

More Android 12 Devices Will Soon Taste the Rainbow

Tim — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 09:34:42 +0000

Google's Android developers announced today that Material You, specifically its dynamic color feature, is coming to more devices running Android 12. Dynamic color inside of apps takes the palette of your device's theme and applies it inside of select apps, such as Gmail. It helps create an overarching theme throughout the device. Now that you know what it is, know that it's coming for you and there's nothing you can do about it. Google specifically lists Samsung, OnePlus, OPPO, Xiaomi, and Vivo devices in line to receive this color treatment. As for when devices running Android 12 from these makers will see dynamic color, we only get a "soon" timeline. We should note that many Samsung devices are already aboard the rainbow train, if owners hadn't already noticed. When talking about Material You, Google says that, "the star of the show was, and continues to be, dynamic color – pick your favorite wallpaper and the entire phone experience transforms to better express you, from your home screen to some of your favorite apps." Be on the lookout for dynamic color to hit your device soon. // Android Developers

Video: Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22 Ultra Leave Their Boxed Lives Behind

Tim — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 08:58:40 +0000

Yesterday was intense, you know, with Samsung announcing a ton of new products and then many not being able to buy them because their website was an absolute mess. Today's a new day, though, one we're starting off with a fresh unboxing video of the all new Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra. Thank you, Samsung, for hooking us up. Deep down inside, I knew we were friends. If you want the spec rundown, look here. If you want to see me dive right in and check these phones out, watch the video below. I try to keep it short and sweet, and honestly, there's nothing in the boxes to see anyway. If you want my first impressions, I'll say that the Burgundy color on the S22 Ultra is a lot better in person. I also think the S Pen is on the wrong side. For the little Galaxy S22, this may be the best Android hardware ever created. It feels like an Android-powered iPhone, but the huge issue will be its miniature battery life. Compromises were made here by Samsung and I don't think it was the right ones. We shall see. We'll get to work on plenty more content, but in the meantime, enjoy this! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUVuof9AOGk

GIVEAWAY: Win a Galaxy S22, 3 Cases From Droid Life and Speck!

Tim — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 14:02:09 +0000

We know many are having issues buying a Galaxy S22 from Samsung's website right now, so why waste time on a website? We've teamed up with Speck to offer you a free Galaxy S22, plus three of Speck's latest cases for the device. That's not too shabby. Speck has a total of five new cases for the Galaxy S22 lineup, all featuring 13-foot drop protection, compatibility for wireless charging, and Microban antimicrobial product protection. The case models consist of the Presidio2 Grip, Presidio Perfect-Clear, Presidio Perfect-Clear Ombre, Presidio Perfect-Clear with Glitter, and Presidio Perfect-Mist. If you think your luck is terrible and want to buy a Speck case for your gorgeous new phone, you can visit Speck's website and snag a case for as low as $39. We'll make this incredibly simple for everyone and use Gleam for the giveaway. With Gleam, we'll have various actions you can complete to gain entries for the prize. Be sure to use a good email for Gleam, as that's how we'll contact our winner. Good luck and thank you to Speck for sponsoring this amazing giveaway!

Giveaway

Prizes: 1 (one) Samsung Galaxy S22 (in White), 3 protective cases. How to Enter Winner: One random winner will be selected on February 25 at 10am Pacific.

You are Trying to Pre-Order a Galaxy S22, But Samsung's Store is Super Busted

Kellen — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 13:45:42 +0000

We thought Google's busted Pixel 6 launch was a situation-and-a-half, but it's looking like Samsung has topped it with the Galaxy S22 launch. Since going live around 8AM Pacific, Samsung's store has basically been busted and it is almost impossible to pre-order one of their fancy new phones. If you were lucky enough to get in just as links went live around the time the Unpacked event wrapped, things went mostly OK. Both Tim and I were initially able to get orders in without an issue. However, Tim decided shortly after pre-ordering a green Galaxy S22 Ultra that he actually wanted the Samsung.com exclusive red model, cancelled his green, and then went back for red. That was almost 6 hours ago and he still has not been able to checkout with a red Galaxy S22 Ultra in cart. I can tell you that I've been attempting as well, mostly to see if Samsung is ever going to fix their store and pre-order system, and I too have come up empty. Samsung's pre-order system is completely busted. Of course, you could go order a phone from Verizon or Best Buy or Walmart and probably find success. But man, Samsung's store offers the best system on most days. They give you an instant credit for your trade-in while topping off the deal with bonus credits to buy additional goodies. Samsung's store is without a doubt the best place to buy their new phones from. We'll do our best to keep you updated on this situation, but know that it is not your computer or phone that is running into issues. It is without a doubt Samsung's store failing to meet the moment. If you'd like to find out, hit that link below and give it a go. Try to pre-order Samsung's Galaxy S22 Ultra

Wednesday Poll: Which Galaxy S22 Model Did You Buy?

Tim — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 10:24:21 +0000

It's Galaxy S22 day. Are you getting in on the action? If so, we want... no, we need to know which model you went for. Is it the easily pocketable Galaxy S22? Or maybe the new and improved, S Pen-toting Galaxy S22 Ultra (aka Note S-Ultra)? There's no wrong answer, as you should buy whichever one makes you happy. We're here for a good time, not a long time, people.

Pre-Order Galaxy S22 Here

If you're still on the fence, we have all of the information and specs you'll need to make an informed decision. We can't tell you which phone to buy, but it's clear that each phone has a certain crowd it's aimed towards. If you need all of the specs, multitasking, and S Pen goodness, the S22 Ultra is your only option. Between the S22 and S22+, it'll come down purely to size and battery. I don't envy anyone trying to make this important and difficult decision. However, if you've already made the leap, tell us which one you leapt for and feel free to mention why. [poll id="579"]

Android 12L Gets Beta 3 as Pixel 6 Joins Beta Program

Kellen — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 10:12:30 +0000

Google pushed out a new Android 12L build today as Beta 3, for those interested in playing with a tablet-focused version of Android on a phone. If that's you, know that they also expanded the program to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro for the first time. A changelog wasn't posted with the new Android 12L Beta 3 update as far as we can tell (release notes), but it's available to the Pixel 3a, Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, and Pixel 6 series if you are interested. Mostly, it appears that Google fixed several bugs as they prepare this for a stable tablet release.

Android 12L Beta 3

Release date: February 9, 2022 Build: S2B3.220205.007.A1 Emulator support: x86 (64-bit), ARM (v8-A) Security patch level: February 2022 Google Play services: 21.24.23

The Android Beta program for 12L is open, so if you want to get in on this the easy way, join the Android Beta program here. Enrolling your phone only takes a click and then Google will know to push the update to you. For those into the manual thing, Google once again released new factory image and OTA files. The instructions on how to flash a factory image can be found here. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go.

Downloads: Factory image | OTA

Here's the Trick to Save a Sneaky Extra $50 on Your Galaxy S22 Ultra Order

Kellen — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 08:51:45 +0000

Alright, this is the sneakiest of tips for getting you the best price on the Galaxy S22, S22+, or Galaxy S22 Ultra. Assuming Samsung doesn't close this fun little trick here shortly, after you all take advantage of it, you could save an extra $50 on your order. You've already pre-ordered, right (pre-order here)? You got up to $700 off your Galaxy S22 Ultra when you traded a Galaxy S21 Ultra, or absolutely hosed on your Galaxy S22 by trading in a Galaxy S21, like me. The instant discount was applied and you then spent your instant credits on accessories. Life is great. Your new phone should be here in a couple of weeks. Guess what? You can save up to another $50 off by clicking a couple of buttons. All you have to do is act like you are cancelling your order and Samsung will give you more money off if you don't cancel. That might be confusing, so hear me out. Once your Galaxy S22 pre-order has been placed and you get the confirmation "order received" email, there will be a button to "Manage Order." Click that button to look at your pre-order situation on Samsung's site. You should see your order and a big "Cancel Item" button. If you click "Cancel Item," Samsung should then prompt you with a confirmation that you'd like to cancel, along with an additional offer of 5% off. The maximum amount is $50 off, so depending on the device you picked and your total price, this could vary. Here is what that offer looks like:

Once you "accept the offer," you should see a refund amount attached to your order for that 5% off. My Galaxy S22 order, since it was only $409 after trade-in, picked up a $20.50 refund. Depending on your trade situation, you could see that full $50 back.

After finishing that process, Samsung will send you an email to confirm the extra 5% off, with updated details about your order:

However, since it's launch day, Samsung's site is now struggling to run, carts are crashing, and the checkout process is not having its best moment. So, you may not want to dive right in with a confirmed order and try to walk through this process. You may want to wait a bit until things stabilize. Also, both Tim and I were able to get extra cash off by doing this trick the first time we tried it. He then tried it a 2nd time and it just straight up cancelled his order without the offer. Attempt at your own risk, and again, once Samsung's store isn't struggling. Pre-order your Galaxy S22, S22 Ultra

It's Time to Pre-Order Your Samsung Galaxy S22

Tim — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 08:03:48 +0000

The phones (and tablets) are official, so it's time to get your pre-order in! Galaxy S22 shipments should begin to arrive around February 25, but most importantly, it's a good thing to pre-order so as to take advantage of Samsung's promotions. And with Samsung, the deal never gets as good as it is during the pre-order period. Trust us on this. For those who pre-order a Galaxy S22 Ultra, Samsung is providing $200 of store credit to use. With that money, you can get yourself a 45W wall charger, put it towards a Galaxy Watch 4, or whatever else you may want. If you pre-order the S22+, you'll receive $150 of credit and $100 if you opt for the S22. Samsung is also offering up to 25% off any Galaxy Tab S8 model if you purchase a Galaxy S22 device. We're continuing to recommend that people go through Samsung for their purchase if possible, especially for those who have a trade-in. Samsung's trade-in values are relatively good and the ability to instantly order additional goodies with the Samsung Store credit is a huge bonus. Plus, that trade-in value is instantly applied, meaning you don't have to worry about a refund later down the line. The trade-in value you're offered varies from device to device, so I recommend you check Samsung's website for up-to-date offers. Personally, I got $700 for my Galaxy S21 Ultra to go towards the S22 Ultra. Picking one up?

Pre-Order Galaxy S22

Samsung: S22 | S22+ | S22 Ultra | Tab S8
Walmart
AT&T
Verizon
T-Mobile

Google Announces New Duo, Messages Features Launching With Galaxy S22

Kellen — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 07:00:42 +0000

Apart from the big Wear OS 3 news that Google and Samsung announced a couple of days ago, the two have teamed up to announce new Android features that will launch first with the new Galaxy S22 and Galaxy Tab S8 devices. From Duo to Messages, Samsung's new high-end devices are getting some cool new tricks that we hope don't stay exclusive for long. The first feature to play with once you get a Galaxy S22 will be previews of YouTube videos that you send through Google Messages. When you or someone else sends a YouTube link within a Messages conversation, you'll get a preview of the video and can even tap to play it without leaving Messages. Love that. Speaking of YouTube, Google Duo is getting new sharing powers that allow you to watch videos together, share ideas and images through Samsung Notes and Gallery, and search Google Maps at the same time as other participants. Again, love that. Google is also adding powerful Voice Access controls, for those with disabilities who need to control their phones by voice. By saying "Hey Google, Voice Access," a user will then be able to tap, scroll, and browse a device with voice commands. You can see this in action below in Google Maps. And finally, Google is excited to see Samsung launch Material You styling with Android 12 on the Galaxy S22, so you get the custom color experience from a wallpaper, just like you would on a Pixel phone. Of course, this isn't new to Samsung phones, but it'll be a front-and-center selling point for the new S22.

Look for these new features on the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy Tab S8, and hopefully, we seem them on others before long.

Samsung Just Committed to 4 Android OS Upgrades, 5 Years of Security

Kellen — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 07:00:13 +0000

There is a lot to take in today, now that the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy Tab S8 lines are official. You are all likely debating whether or not to buy one or all of the devices Samsung just announced, but one thing you need to know going forward is that all of the devices you pick will be supported for years and years to come. In fact, Samsung just pledged to keep their newest devices up-to-date longer than anyone in the Android game.

Samsung's 5-year update pledge

In announcements for both the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy Tab S8, Samsung committed to "up to four generations of Android OS upgrades," as well as "five years of security updates." Here are two quotes from press releases for both device line-ups:

Galaxy S22 announcement As part of our commitment to giving users the best possible mobile performance and experience, the entire Galaxy S22 series will be supported by up to four generations of Android OS upgrades. Now millions of Galaxy users can take advantage of the latest security, productivity and other exciting new features, for longer. Samsung will scale this effort across our product line-up to ensure you’re fully supported across your Galaxy ecosystem. Galaxy Tab S8 announcement As part of our commitment to giving users the best possible mobile performance and experience, the Galaxy Tab S8 series will be supported by up to four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates. Now millions of Galaxy users can increase the lifecycle of their devices even further with the most up-to-date security, productivity, and other exciting new features, as Samsung continues to scale this effort across our product line-up and your Galaxy ecosystem.

This is an expansion on their already-class-leading software support. Just last year they committed to "at least 4 years of security updates" for flagships, before adding an additional year to enterprise devices. With this jump to "four generations of Android OS upgrades" and "five years of security updates," Samsung stands alone in the level of support an Android device is receiving. If you are worried that the Galaxy S22 announcement didn't mention the 5 years of security updates, try to chill. The Galaxy Tab S8's announcement points to a footnote that does indeed mention the Galaxy S22, as well as other devices.

Samsung devices getting 4 OS upgrades

Speaking of other devices, the good news related to this additional year of support doesn't stop with the Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, and Galaxy S22 Ultra, or the entire Galaxy Tab S8 line-up. Samsung has decided to include its 2021 phones as well, so the entire list of devices scheduled to receive up to 4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates is:

Galaxy S22
Galaxy S22+
Galaxy S22 Ultra
Galaxy S21
Galaxy S21+
Galaxy S21 Ultra
Galaxy S21 FE
Galaxy Z Fold 3
Galaxy Z Flip 3
Galaxy Tab S8
Galaxy Tab S8+
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra

If we try and measure out a timeline here, assuming Samsung hits all 4 years of OS upgrades, that should mean the Galaxy S21, Galaxy Z Fold 3, and Galaxy Z Flip 3, which all started on Android 11 and have recently been upgraded to Android 12, should see Android 13, Android 14, and Android 15. For the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy Tab S8, since they'll launch with Android 12, we should get updates to Android 13, Android 14, Android 15, and Android 16. That's absolutely wild stuff. Google better consider changing it's plans for the Pixel 6.

Galaxy S22 Lineup Now Official, Launch February 25 for $799+

Tim — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 07:00:07 +0000

Samsung's latest devices, the Galaxy S22 lineup, are now official. We learned a lot about these devices leading up to the unveiling, but as always, there were a few pieces of information that were either unavailable or inaccurate. Let's go over all of the official details right now. Available in-store starting February 25, Samsung will open pre-orders for the Galaxy S22 lineup today (Feb. 9), with pricing starting at $799 for the S22, $999 for the S22+, and $1,199 for the S22 Ultra. Consumers who pre-order a device are eligible to upgrade to the next storage tier when purchasing 128GB or 256GB models. This offer also includes Samsung store credit, totalling $200 if you order the S22 Ultra, $150 for the S22+, and $100 for the S22. Additionally, anyone who pre-orders an S22 device can also receive 25% off any Galaxy Tab S8 model.

Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+

For people who don't need an S Pen, but still want top tier specifications, the Galaxy S22 and S22+ are a great place to start. For that $799 starting price (Note: the Galaxy S21 FE starts at $699), the Galaxy S22 features a 6.1" FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, 8GB RAM, up to 256GB storage (same RAM and storage options for the S22+), 3,700mAh battery with up to 25W charging, triple rear camera system, IP68 rating, WiFi 6, and Android 12 (One UI 4.1). Comparing the two, there isn't too much that separates the S22 from the S21 FE, but you'll likely notice a difference in the hardware (not just size, but materials) and a big difference in the battery size. The S21 FE features a much larger 4,500mAh battery. Scholars will undoubtedly debate Samsung's S22 vs. S21 FE decisions for years to come. The Galaxy S22+ is also in a funky position, designed for those who want the big phone feel for the big phone price, but don't need the S Pen. It features a 6.6-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, same camera system as the smaller S22, same storage and RAM situation as the S22, 4,500mAh battery, IP68 rating, and WiFi 6E. Notice that the S22+ has support for WiFi 6E, while the S22 is just WiFi 6. That could be a dealbreaker for somebody. In the press release, Samsung highlights the upgraded, AI-powered camera system on both of these devices. The camera array consists of a 50-megapixel main sensor, 12MP ultra wide angle lens, plus a 10MP telephoto lens. According to the company, the phones will both offer an improved Portrait mode that is better equipped to handle pet portraits, improved night time shooting thanks to new "Nightography" features, as well as a new Auto Framing feature that detects and tracks up to 10 people in a shot and automatically adjusts the camera’s focus ensuring that everyone is looking great. Again, the Galaxy S22 starts at $799 and the S22+ starts at $999.

Order Galaxy S22, S22+

Galaxy S22 Ultra (aka S-Note Ultra)

As you'll see, where past Ultra devices were simply larger and more specced out versions of the Galaxy S line, the Galaxy S22 Ultra is far more Galaxy Note than it is Galaxy S. That's why I'll be calling it the S-Note Ultra or maybe Note Ultra S? I'm not sure yet. Either way, Samsung is back to including an S Pen slot with the device, which must have Note fans doing a big happy dance right now. On top of that, its hardware styling is much closer to the Galaxy Note 10 than it is the Galaxy S22, so it's clear that Samsung wanted to differentiate them quite heavily. Specs include the best of the best. It's a 6.8-inch QHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor with up to 12GB RAM, up to 1TB of internal storage, 5,000mAh battery with charging speeds of up to 45W with a supported charger (not included in the box), quad rear camera array highlighted by a 108MP main sensor, 40MP front camera, IP68 rating, and Android 12 (One UI 4.1). Honestly, what more could you need? And don't say a headphone jack or expandable storage. We already know. For the S Pen fans among us, Samsung details that the all-new stylus offers 70% lower latency when compared to the Galaxy S21 Ultra, making it the fastest, most responsive S Pen to date. The quickness of the S Pen essentially sums up the Galaxy S22 Ultra nicely. In its press release, Samsung stresses that the S22 Ultra is all about speed. Everything from the upgraded Snapdragon processor, 120Hz display, improved charging, WiFi 6E, and 5G connectivity should deliver what you need in as timely a fashion as needed. Important: Samsung has detailed in its documentation for these devices that they are eligible for 4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates. If this pans out like Samsung says it will, that's a massive selling point, further cementing that Samsung is the current King of Android Updates. It's up to Google if they intend to match Samsung's offering here. Galaxy S22 Ultra starts at $1,199.

Order Galaxy S22 Ultra

Galaxy S22 Family Specs

[table id=217 /]

Galaxy Tab S8 Lineup Looks Incredible, Starts at $699

Tim — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 07:00:05 +0000

If you're in the market for an Android tablet, do yourself a favor and don't look anywhere else besides the new Galaxy Tab S8 lineup from Samsung. I can give you one reason why, too: Software updates. Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy Tab S8 lineup will receive four years of Android OS upgrades, along with 5 years of security updates. For an Android device, let alone an Android tablet, that's remarkable. In addition to Samsung's amazing software support, you're getting a really sleek looking slate with S Pen support, plus all of the multitasking and creative features you'd expect from a tablet. There are three models to choose from in this lineup. There's the smallest Tab S8, medium Tab S8+, and the honker Tab S8 Ultra. Below you can view the spec breakdown for each device, but the highlights for all three include the speaker setup, S Pen support, microSD support, and 120Hz displays. The Galaxy Tab S8 lineup is up for pre-order today (Feb. 9), with general availability beginning February 25. The Tab S8 starts at $699, the Tab S8+ starts at $899, and the Tab S8 Ultra starts at $1,099. For those who pre-order, which would be a good idea, customers will get a free Slim Book Cover Keyboard if you get an S8 or S8+, or get a Backlit Book Cover Keyboard if you order a S8 Ultra.

Order Galaxy Tab S8

Galaxy Tab S8 Lineup Specs

[table id=218 /]

How's Your Pixel 6 After February's Update?

Kellen — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 11:11:23 +0000

It's so odd that we feel the need to do this right now, but yeah, we are curious how your Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are running after the new February Android update. Because the bug reports seem to never stop whenever Google touches the software on its own phones, we like to know how many of you are impacted by, well, anything. For those who missed it, the February Pixel update rolled out yesterday. If you grabbed it over-the-air, it was tiny in size (27MB) and was really there to fix security bugs and a couple of specific items. Google said it should have fixed a camera issue that caused phones to reboot, a couple of Bluetooth playback bugs, and an input issue with the keyboard. But after a good 24 hours, many of you have probably noticed that things are better or that there are new issues. For example, the GooglePixel subreddit has a WiFi issues thread that has gained some steam, while another thinks the update was magical and fixed "everything." It definitely didn't help the fingerprint reader, in case you were curious. We really should be rounding into stable form at this point with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Both phones were released in October of last year and then received a major (delayed) update last month, along with this new one. These phones aren't that new anymore, so if we aren't seeing some version of a final form, then will we ever? Anyways, let us know how things have been. Phone running well or are we already looking forward to March's update?

Chrome for Android Gets a Couple of Sweet New Widgets

Kellen — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 09:00:02 +0000

That home screen of yours has looked a bit off since Material You took it over, right? Chrome is here to fix it right up. Today, Google is shipping out at least 3 widgets to the Chrome app in various sizes and with all sorts of functions. There's some other stuff to tell you about too.

New Chrome widgets

For those in need of some fun, the Chrome Dino game can be a legit shortcut on your home screen in widget form. As someone who has never played Chrome Dino, maybe this is my chance with it being this accessible. The other two widgets are more work than play, with search boxes set next to voice search, incognito, image search, and Dino shortcuts. It looks like Google is allowing some flexibility in sizing too. We have 2x2, 4x2, and 4x1 options shown off below. I'd imagine they will match the colors of your system, assuming you have Android 12. These widgets are rolling out now, so look in Google Play for an update to Chrome. Google Play Link: Chrome

Other stuff! Chrome Journeys, Actions

In addition to the new widgets, Chrome (on desktop to start) is getting a new history page called Chrome Journeys. Think of Journeys as a bunch of grouped items you would find from a specific topic you may have researched, like a trip or item to buy. Chrome will group relevant sites together to help you pick up where you left off, even if you did your own research days or weeks ago. Journeys will try to look at how you've interacted with a site or how many times you've visited one to pull up relevant info or make suggestions. Since there are going to be some who find this an incredible privacy nightmare, remember that you can always delete your history pretty easily. Also, Journeys are saved on devices (to start), not synced through your Google account. Google may open account-level syncing at some point, but not today. And finally, Google is releasing more Chrome Actions, which are actions you can do from Chrome's address bar. By typing in select phrases, you can quickly do things like jump into settings, view history, share a tab, or play that damn Dino game. Here is the list of new actions:

“Manage settings”
“Customize Chrome”
“View your Chrome history”
“Manage accessibility settings”
“Share this tab”
“Play Chrome Dino game”

// Google

Google Assistant Coming to Wear OS 3, Galaxy Watch 4 as Stand-Alone App

Kellen — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 07:00:37 +0000

Samsung announced yesterday that Google Assistant was still "months" away from launching on its Galaxy Watch 4 line, and yeah, that news is pretty disappointing to hear knowing these watches are already 6 months old. However, Google has told us a bit of additional news related to Assistant's launch on Wear OS 3 and it could be great once we get it. Once Google Assistant is ready, it will show up on Google Play as a stand-alone app that you'll install on your Galaxy Watch 4 or Watch 4 Classic. Google says it'll feature a brand new design "with faster than ever response times" and will accept "Hey Google" commands, which the current Assistant on Wear OS always struggles with. Because this is Google Assistant, you should expect to be able to check on your calendar, set timers, play music, and control your home with your voice. Samsung was clear in their early announcement that Bixby will still very much be around and that's probably why Google is having to launch this as a stand-alone app. In the long run, an app by itself that users can install is likely for the best. A stand-alone app can be updated easier and is completely Google's, rather than at the mercy of whoever is making the watch. Again, we are still months away, but this should be a small sign of good things to come. // Google

Galaxy Watch 4 Getting a Big Update, But Google Assistant is "Months" Away

Kellen — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 15:43:03 +0000

As a warm-up act to Wednesday's Unpacked event, where Samsung will show off the Galaxy S22 line, we got big Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic news to share. Both of Samsung's new Wear OS watches are getting new features in a new software update, plus we got an update on where Google Assistant is and some other Google Play-related stuff. Starting February 9, owners of either Galaxy Watch 4 will be able to grab this new software and experience the following new features:

New body composition: Samsung Health will provide body composition insights from Centr, a digital fitness program from Chris Hemsworth. A free 30-day trial should be included.
New interval targets: For runners and cyclists, there will be pre-sets for duration, distance, and number of sets for workouts.
Sleep animals and coach: For sleep tracking, Samsung is going to start asking you to complete sleep surveys to then assign some sort of sleep animal to represent your type of sleep. It will then coach you through a 4-5 week program to help you improve your sleep.
Sleep automations: If you own a Watch 4 and have SmartThings powered lights, your watch will recognize when you fall asleep and try to turn all of your lights off automatically.
New watch face colors: To help you customize your watch, new colors and fonts can be found when changing up your watch face. As an added bonus, Samsung is going to start selling new watch bands to match-up to those new colors.

Alright, that out of the way, let's talk about Google Assistant and Google Play, since these are Wear OS watches.

YouTube Music streaming: In a "coming soon" update, YouTube Music on the Galaxy Watch 4 will soon be able to stream music over WiFi or LTE on its own without needing to be connected to a phone.
Google Assistant is "months" away: Remember how Google Assistant was supposed to be a part of the Galaxy Watch 4 series? It's still not and apparently won't be for "months," they announced today. Once they do, you'll have access to both Bixby or Assistant, which is fun. Months, though?
Install apps with one tap: Finally, during initial setup, Samsung and Google are making it easier to "one tap" and install favorite smartphone apps.

Again, this new update will be available on your Galaxy Watch 4 or Galaxy Watch 4 Classic as earlier as February 9, right around the time that Samsung announces the Galaxy S22. // Samsung

Chromecast With Google TV for $39? Yes.

Tim — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 12:52:01 +0000

For a limited time, all stores have the Chromecast With Google TV for just $39, which is $10 off its usual $49 price tag. Is that a really sweet deal? Abso-freakin-lutely. At $39, this little dongle offers access to the Android TV ecosystem of apps and services, plus for tech specs, comes with 4K HDR support, enough built-in storage for your favorite apps, as well as quick access to Google Assistant via the accompanying remote. As a bonus, it looks like new Chromecast With Google TV purchases is coming with 6 months of Peacock Premium. Dope. Have at it.

Buy Links

Pixel 3 Gets What Should be Its Final Update

Kellen — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 10:45:42 +0000

Google didn't mention this in its announcement post for the February update, but the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are receiving an update this month and I'd imagine it'll be the last of them. This is the final update that Google told us would arrive in in Q1 of 2022. The update, since it doesn't have a changelog that we can find, is sort of a mystery. We do have build numbers of SP1A.210812.016.C1 (global) and SP1A.210812.016.B1 (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone AU) to at least be on the lookout for. Otherwise, this should be a build to tidy things up after the big Android 12 update that Google has spent several months trying to finish off. Also, yes, there was another update in January that Google issued to the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, but that was a critical bug fixer to take care of that emergency calling bug. This new Android 12.0.0 build, while similar in numbering, is...new. Should Google tell us what's in this, we'll be sure to update this post. For now, you can grab the factory image here and the OTA file here. If doing that manual work sounds awful, just sit back and grab the over-the-air update shortly.

February 2022 Android Security Update Now Available for Google Pixel Phones

Kellen — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 10:04:03 +0000

Hey, it's another first Monday of a new month and that means Google Pixel update time. Typically, these days are pretty chill and without drama, as Google uses them to push out security patches. However, Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners are likely still big mad at not having received an on-time update since their phones were released in October and I swear the list of bugs they demand be squashed has only lengthened. So, we'll be seeing how Google approaches today. As of now, Google has already posted new Android 12.0.0 build numbers for the Pixel 6 (SQ1D.220205.003), Pixel 6 Pro (SQ1D.220205.003), Pixel 5a (SQ1A.220205.002), Pixel 5 (SQ1A.220205.002), Pixel 4a 5G (SQ1A.220205.002), Pixel 4a (SQ1A.220205.002), Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL (SQ1A.220205.002), and Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL (SQ1A.220205.002).

NOTE: The Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL are also getting an update, but we are assuming it's the final bug fixer promised to us from back in November.

As far as we know, the February Pixel update is right on time for all still-supported Pixels. Google made no mention in their announcement of a delay for any device. Here is the list of bug fixes:

The February 2022 update includes bug fixes and improvements for Pixel users – see below for details. Camera Fix for issue causing device reboot when using camera in certain conditions *[1]. Bluetooth Fix for issue causing audio playback to disconnect while using certain Bluetooth devices *[1]. General improvements for Bluetooth audio quality with certain media codecs *[1]. Framework Fix for issue causing keyboard to display over input text in certain conditions *[2]. Telephony Connectivity fixes for specific carrier networks *[3].
Device Applicability *[1] Included on Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro

*[2] Included on Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 5, Pixel 5a (5G), Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro

*[3] Included on Pixel 4, Pixel 4XL, Pixel 4a (5G) & Pixel 5 (C Spire, Cellcom)

Google should begin pushing these updates shortly (Settings>System>Advanced>System update), but if you don’t want to wait for Google and prefer to update manually, you will find each factory image or OTA file at the links below. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go. Links:

Motorola is Teasing a New Edge Phone for Later This Month

Kellen — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 09:43:03 +0000

Fresh off of launching yet another mid-range phone, Motorola has begun teasing its next device, and this one might actually grab your attention. If we're reading the hashtag properly, it sure looks like a new Motorola Edge phone is on the way. Through a Tweet and image sent to us from Moto, they have told us to mark February 24 on our calendars as the day to #findyouredge. A silhouette of a phone is included in the image, along with a backdrop of Chicago with the sun setting. We don't yet know much about an upcoming Edge device from Motorola for the US, but there are at least a couple of rumored devices in the works. Plus, Motorola previously launched the Edge X30 in China with a good set of specs, like the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, massive 5000mAh battery with really fast charging, big OLED display at 144Hz, and almost everything else you'd like in a modern flagship phone. You can see the Edge X30 below.

There are also a ton of rumors pointing to a new Motorola Edge 30 Pro that is likely a lot like the X30, with some tweaks here and there, like in the camera department. Expect a high-end phone, unless Motorola weirdly only launches an upper-mid-range variant in the US, like they did last year with the Edge (2021). My only hope is that it isn't a Verizon exclusive. We'll have more coverage on February 24!

Galaxy S22 Lineup Uses Old Fishing Nets for New Material, Because Every Bit Helps

Tim — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 08:28:45 +0000

Our oceans, while vast and beautiful, aren't much more than massive landfills for the human species. We have hardly begun to live in harmony with these bodies of water, instead only using them for food and a dumping site. Having grown up on the beaches of Northern California, I can confirm that when it comes to trash and recyclables in the ocean, people really do suck. With that said, Samsung, whose own hands are dirty and responsible for loss of aquatic life due to pollution, wants to help. Samsung announced this week that it is using discarded ocean fishing nets and repurposing them into a material that is to be used for the Galaxy S22 lineup. They don't mention specifically which parts or how they are accomplishing this, but they are. It could be an internal piece of plastic or maybe a plastic coating somewhere? Here's an excerpt from Samsung's announcement, detailing that this is merely a first step in Samsung's journey to help our oceans and planet.

Now and into the future, Samsung will incorporate repurposed ocean-bound plastics throughout our entire product lineup, starting with our new Galaxy devices that will be revealed on February 9^th at Unpacked. These devices will reflect our ongoing effort to eliminate single-use plastics and expand the use of other eco-conscious materials, such as recycled post-consumer material (PCM) and recycled paper. With this transformation, the future of Galaxy technology will bring leading product design and deliver better environmental impact.

Thank you, Samsung. Samsung's Unpacked kicks off at 10AM Eastern on February 9. We'll definitely be bringing you all of the coverage for that. // Samsung

Chrome Icon Gets Radical Makeover

Tim — Sat, 05 Feb 2022 12:55:57 +0000

In the latest Canary build for Google's Chrome browser, the company introduced an updated icon. As seen above, Google spared no expense at giving the updated icon a very nice, clean aesthetic. Compared to 2008's Simon-lookalike logo, I think this is pretty good. According to a Chrome designer who detailed the change via Twitter, quite a bit of work went into this change, leaving us to wonder how much a redesign like this might cost. As tweeted, "We simplified the main brand icon by removing the shadows, refining the proportions and brightening the colors, to align with Google's more modern brand expression." If you're interested to learn more about the change, checkout the complete Twitter thread. It's pretty intense. You'll soon see the updated icon across all of the various platforms in the near future. And yes, many of the platforms have variants of this new icon, confirming that Google takes this icon business very seriously. Or do they? What do you think? https://twitter.com/elvin_not_11/status/1489647023410212869 // The Verge

Verizon Galaxy Z Fold 3, Flip 3 Get Patched Up With January's Update

Tim — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 14:20:31 +0000

Verizon is shipping out a new update to the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3, packed with the January security patch. While it may not be February's patch, not even yet available on Pixel devices, that update should be right around the corner. Once updated, owners will see build version number F926USQU1BVA9 on the Z Fold 3 and F711USQU2BVA9 on the Z Flip 3. If you spot anything in addition to the patch, feel free to let us know. // Verizon [2]

Alien: Isolation for Android, Probably the Best Port Ever

Tim — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 10:55:50 +0000

I recall lining up at GameStop years ago for the release of Alien: Isolation. I didn't yet know it, but I was in for one helluva ride, as the game is easily one of the better horror games to ever exist, at least in the mind of this Xeno-centric, Alien franchise loving fanboy. When I learned the game had been ported to Android, I was a bit unsure if I wanted to give it a try, as the last time I beat the game I told myself I wouldn't put myself through something that stressful again. My weak ticker can only take so much running, sneaking around, and constant dying to the Xenomorph. And more honestly, would the game be as fun on my smartphone as it was on my big screen TV all those years ago? How could those same feelings of fear and panic be captured? The developers behind the port, Feral Interactive, provided me with a download code for the game and I recently set off on my adventure through Sevastopol Station. If you haven't played this game before, I won't include any story spoilers, but I do insist you go try the game out yourself, whether that be on mobile or not. And get yourself a gamepad like this one. It'll make your life much easier.

Gameplay

Once the game files have all been downloaded and installed, which will take a bit of patience as the download is quite a few GBs and the download from Feral's servers is really slow, I found the gameplay quite remarkable. You can tell a lot of energy was spent on ensuring the touchscreen controls wouldn't hinder the gameplay, as rummaging through your inventory and crafting items in a timely fashion is imperative to the flow of the game. For me, I used a gamepad about 95% of the time, which allowed me a bit more freedom to forget that I was playing on a mobile phone. While getting chased by the Alien isn't as scary on my phone as it was all those years ago on my TV in the dark with surround sound speakers, it's pretty darn good here. I specifically remember a few bugs from the initial launch and I didn't run into a single issue with this port, which is a relief when you consider things can go awry when you begin to introduce 3rd-party hardware like a gamepad.

A great touch by the developers is the integration of Google Drive, allowing players to have a save file for the title backed up for them on the cloud. This should allow players to switch between devices for playing, so long as they can access that cloud save. I didn't test this function, though, so don't quote me. If you have ever played this game before, but not yet on mobile, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at the polished feel this ported title has.

Graphics

Like any good game, mobile or not, there are various graphical settings to choose from, allowing the player to choose which experience is best for them. In the settings menu, you'll find options for Performance (offering the best frame rate), Graphics (offering the best visuals), and Battery Saver (lowers battery power consumption). I toggled between Performance and Graphics, but didn't notice a huge difference except for when movement is high in the game. I stuck with Performance through the majority of my gameplay, as I value a higher FPS over a ton of textures that can't even be appreciated on my smaller screen. I doubt many will notice a huge difference.

Conclusion

At a price of $14.99, which includes all seven of the game's DLCs, I honestly don't know if there's a better game port on Android. Feral knocked this one out of the park. If you're interested in playing, make sure to check if your specific device is supported. Due the game's graphical demands, Feral is rather strict on which devices can download and play. So long as you have a newer Galaxy, OnePlus, or select Pixel device, you should be good to go, though. Have fun and stay safe out there aboard Sevastopol!

Google Play Link ($14.99)

https://youtu.be/HRh6uBLvfNk

Google's Magic Eraser is Crashing Photos on the Pixel 6 (Updated)

Kellen — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 09:04:47 +0000

Google pushed out an update to Google Photos this week that is apparently breaking Magic Eraser on Pixel 6 phones. That's never good, especially since there doesn't appear to be a fix at the moment. Folks on reddit noticed that when opening Google Photos and firing up the greatly-hyped Magic Eraser tool, that the app would then crash, pushing them back to home screens. With no work-around to get things back in working order, those experiencing the issue are basically just waiting for Google to do their part and fix it. A recent update to build 5.76.0.425427310 might be the issue. I say that because build 5.75.0.424739917, like I have on my Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, is working fine. Others are noticing this new build being the culprit as well, so if you are on 5.75, maybe don't update. Google may have pulled that new build, since those of us now hearing about the bug aren't even seeing an update available. I know, I know, it's another bug for Pixel 6 phones. Y'all just can't win, eh? UPDATE: Google took to reddit to say that a new update is rolling out that should fix everyone up. Look for build 5.76.0.426251772 or higher starting right away.

Thank you for your patience and bug reports. Starting today, we are rolling out a fix, so please update to the latest version of Google Photos (5.76.0.426251772 or higher) in the Play Store.

// PhoneArena

Amazon Prime Gets Huge Price Jump to $139/Year

Tim — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 14:40:54 +0000

Amazon, one of the wealthiest and most powerful companies in the world, has gone ahead and raised its annual Prime membership price by about 17%, bumping it to $139/year, up from $119. For those who pay monthly, the price is going from $12.99 to $14.99. Is this a bummer? Always. Will it force anyone to cancel their Prime subscription? Unlikely. Those paying annually may feel as if it's better to switch to a more stomach-able monthly price, but at the end of the day, Amazon Prime members realize that having the convenience of Prime is just too valuable in their lives. For me, no longer living in a major Metro area, Prime is a lifesaver. Not literally, but you know what I mean. No, I don't stream any Amazon-exclusive movies and TV shows, but that's all a bonus at this point. I can't really see getting rid of Prime at this point. Quick deliveries of anything I order is simply too clutch for me to part with. According to CNBC, new members will see the increased prices on February 18 and current members will be billed at the higher rate after March 25. My question is, at what price do we stop paying for Prime? For me, I think it would be $159/year? // CNBC

DEAL: Fossil Gen 6 for $229 This Valentine's Day ($70 Off)

Tim — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 11:53:42 +0000

To celebrate a fantastic holiday, that being Valentine’s Day, Fossil is hosting a solid deal on its Gen 6 smartwatch.

Watch: Fossil Gen 6 Unboxing and Tour

For a limited time, you can get the Gen 6 smartwatch at $70 off the usual retail price, bringing it down to just $229. From what we can see, most of the models get the discount, including the metal band and the leather band options. If you don't know much about the Gen 6, let me fill you in. It hasn't yet gotten the Wear OS 3.0 upgrade, but it will. On top of that, the specs include a Qualcomm 4100+ chipset, sensors for tracking blood oxygen and heart rate, GPS, NFC, 1.28" AMOLED display, 44mm case, and swimproof protection. At $229, it's a solid device that's sure to see plenty of software support from Fossil. If you want to treat yourself or a loved one, follow the links below.

Amazon Link | Fossil Link

A New Moto G Stylus has Arrived for 2022

Kellen — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 11:08:11 +0000

Motorola, king of introducing the mid-range phone, introduced another mid-range phone today. The Moto G Stylus for 2022 is official at a price of $299. Like previous Moto G Stylus phones, this is a budget device that gives you a fun little S Pen-like bonus to doodle with or be "productive." Along with that stylus, you get a 6.8" FHD display at 90Hz, 5000mAh battery, and a camera system made up of a 50MP main shooter, along with a secondary ultra-wide lens and depth sensor. The Moto G Stylus (2022) runs a MediaTek Helio G88 processor with 4GB or 6GB RAM, 64GB or 128GB storage (with SD slot), 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.0, rear fingerprint reader, and 16MP selfie camera. It doesn't have NFC, because Motorola is constantly at war with NFC in the US for some reason that will never make any sense. This new Stylus runs Android 11 out of the box and should see sporadic updates over its short life, just don't expect much. The Moto G Stylus (2022) is up for pre-order today for $299.99. You'll find it at Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Motorola's shop.

Google Launches No-Cost Workspace Starter Edition for Businesses

Tim — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 10:54:13 +0000

Those with a work email can now find a no-cost option for Google Workspace, formerly known as G Suite. This free tier gets you plenty of good stuff, so don't let its lack of price make you think it's a poor offering. Called the Google Workspace Essentials Starter edition, users get access to Google Drive, Meet, Chat, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more. The main difference between the no-cost option and a paid tier is storage allotted to each user (15GB for this Starter Edition), additional admin controls, custom email, and a few other things. Compared to Workspace's $6/month tier, though, there isn't a ton different. A comprehensive comparison of paid Workspace tiers can be viewed here, in case you were curious. There's no credit card required to sign up, so if you think your business could benefit, follow the link below.

Create Account Here

// Google

Verizon Galaxy Note 10 Lineup Receives February Patch Ahead of Google Pixels

Tim — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 09:05:41 +0000

Verizon is shipping out the latest security patch, February's, to the Galaxy Note 10 lineup from Samsung. I'm not sure if anyone else will appreciate this like we do, but is Samsung not continuing to crush the update game? Google's Pixel phones aren't even running the February patch yet, expected to see them next Monday most likely. The only thing listed in the update is that patch, but if you happen to spot anything else that's new following the update, feel free to let us know.

New Build Numbers

Note 10: N970USQS7GVA1
Note 10+: N975USQS7GVA1
Note 10+ 5G: N976VVRS7GVA1

Have at it. // Verizon [2] [3]

Verizon Goes All-In on 36-Month Device Contracts

Kellen — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 08:44:04 +0000

When buying a phone from Verizon going forward, you'll still have two familiar options. You'll be able to pay full price and own your phone outright or you'll be able to shrink the upfront cost of it down by signing a contract. That contract option, or device payment plan, is getting longer today from Verizon. Previously available as 24 or 30 month options, Verizon has gone all-in on 36 month contracts for devices. After browsing through Verizon's device line-up this morning, I did not find anything but a 36-month option for any phone, from cheap $160 phones up through $1,000+ flagships. Should you buy a device today or any time after on a payment plan, you will be signing a 3-year contract with Verizon.

You might have some questions, so we'll try to get out ahead of those now.

What if you are on a 24-month or 30-month contract now? You are all good. You get to keep your current plan. You signed that contract and it's good until it runs out or you buy a new phone and have to sign one of these new 36-month contracts.
How early can you upgrade with a 36-month contract? Verizon's FAQ says you can only upgrade after you pay off the device completely, so that means you either pay it off early or run out the entire 36 months.
Can you pay more each month to shorten the contract? Nope. You either pay your normal monthly amount or you pay it off entirely - those are you only options.
So there are no early upgrades anymore? As far as we can tell, no (upgrade FAQ). There are some upgrade specials for iPhones, but the rest are all locked into 36-month contracts.
What about tablets or watches or hotspots or laptops? Verizon is pretty clear that 36-months is the option for everything going forward. Here is a screenshot to make that clear.

If you are in the market for a new phone from Verizon, this is certainly a new piece of the puzzle you will have to consider. Buying a Samsung Galaxy S22 on a 3-year contract might sound scary, but Samsung will provide really great software support on that phone for beyond 3 years. A 3-year contract, assuming you plan to stick with Verizon, will lower the monthly payments on that phone. However, buying a year-old phone on a 3-year contract or one from a device maker who is terrible at updates (like Motorola), is really something you should consider not doing. In case you were wondering, AT&T made the switch to only offering 36-month contracts last year. T-Mobile turned to them back in 2018, but a look this morning showed options of 24-month and 30-month depending on the phone. We aren't sure when they backed away from 3-year contracts, but they appear to be your last option outside of a 3-year deal from the 3 major carriers. Verizon's website says that 2/9/22 is the actual start date for these new 36-month device payment plans, but again, they are the only option online today. We've reached out to Verizon for any additional info they may have on this change and will update this post if needed. What's up, Canada?

Google Messages Might Get a Freakin' Navigation Drawer Again (Updated: Rolling Out!)

Kellen — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 16:05:59 +0000

Google is so weird, man. After taking away all of the navigation menus from almost every single important app it serves, evidence pointing to a navigation menu returning has arrived. And we aren't talking about Google testing an old school menu on a goofy app like Duo. No, we're talking about Google Messages, one of the most important apps that Google makes. The evidence showed up in the most recent version of Google Messages and it raises at least one big question. Before we get into that, let's look at the potential changes we could see first, though. By tinkering with a newly released Google Messages app, 9to5Google discovered the upcoming updated UI. It shows a familiar account picker in the top right corner of the app, just like you see in Gmail or Google Play or several other Google apps. However, the bigger design tweak is the introduction of a side navigation menu or drawer. In this menu, we can see options of Messages, Starred, Archived, and Spam, as well as shortcuts to connect to a desktop, switch themes, etc. It all makes sense in a navigation drawer like this, except for the fact that Google killed these things in almost every single app. But look, I'm a fan of this old style, as it's a great place for info or options like the ones Google is using it for. It makes a lot more sense than burying stuff behind an account button.

Speaking of that account button, what's it for? This is that big question I have about this change from Google. Messages is one of the few apps that doesn't care about your Google account, since it's a text or SMS app. I just looked through the app on my phone and my account is mentioned or listed no where. So what's up? Well, this secret reveal of Google Messages has shown a Google Photos integration to help folks using SMS and MMS send higher quality videos. So maybe, Google needs to attach your account to Messages in order to access your Google Photos library? Otherwise, what would the point be, unless Google has bigger plans for account-level syncing and all that. But that would be too smart and Google is bad at messaging.

UPDATE 2/5: Google has started rolling these new features out! If you are in the Messages Beta, you could see it right away. I'm not seeing either yet, but we all know how a slow rollout works.

Google Play Link: Google Messages

RiotPWR's ESL Controller Makes Mobile Gaming Easy and Fun

Tim — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 10:49:57 +0000

These days, there is no shortage of fantastic mobile games, especially if you're into genres like racing, FPS, and RPGs. With the cloud gaming scene growing on top of native Android titles, the world of mobile gaming continues to explode. It's a seriously good time to play video games on your mobile phone. To take full advantage of the situation, a gamer will want to have a controller, and with so many different options to choose from, the task of selecting one can be a bit daunting. I was recently provided with a sample of the ESL Controller for Android from RiotPWR, and after getting through a bit of gaming with it, I wanted to share a few thoughts in case you're looking for a controller for your own gaming.

The Hardware

The controller is identical in shape to an Xbox controller, which has been perfectly fine for me as that's been my console of choice for some time. On the bottom of the controller there's a 3.5mm headphone jack as well as pass through charging, as the controller is a hardwired option versus the Bluetooth-powered models that introduce a bit of latency to your controls and need to be charged from time to time. There's also a separate stand piece you can insert into the controller, allowing you to dock the phone and play comfortably while on the go and don't have a place to set your phone down. My main gripe with the stand is due to the phone I'm using, the Galaxy S21 Ultra, the power button is close to the center of the phone's side, not allowing me to have the phone in the stand perfectly centered. It has to be a slightly off to the side, which is only a tad bit annoying. It doesn't affect my gameplay, though.

The Experience

What pleased me most with using the controller is the lack of any need to set anything up. You plug the controller in, open up a gamepad-supported title from Google Play or a streaming service like GeForce NOW and start playing. I didn't have to adjust button layouts or map anything. It was really quite effortless, which gave me more time to enjoy my game and less time being frustrated that something wasn't working properly. Thankfully, should someone run into an issue, games that support gamepads typically have settings that allow for a bit of troubleshooting. All of the games I played, which was a mixture of Android games and games streamed from GeForce NOW, didn't have any problems. I'm grateful for that since my patience with this stuff is not what it used to be.

You can purchase this controller directly from Verizon or Amazon for $69.

ESL Controller: Amazon | Verizon

Google Lets Customers Know Their $80 Pixel Stand Finally Charges Fast

Kellen — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 09:10:14 +0000

Google sold a record amount of Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones last quarter, and that's cool. They also had a pretty rocky December in the software update department that frustrated Pixel fans, who voiced those frustrations loudly. A big December update was supposed to bring several improvements to Google's new fast-selling phones, one of which involved their new Pixel Stand (2nd Gen), an $80 wireless charger that was marketed as being able to charge as fast as a wired connection. In an email we received yesterday, Google reminded us that our $80 wireless charging Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) has actually not been performing at anywhere near advertised speeds since day 1. In fact, it was supposed to pick-up full capabilities in December, but that December update delay we all know so well pushed everything back. Now, thanks to the arrival of the "late" January update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) is ready to be the wireless charger it always wanted to be. That means charging at up to 23W speeds, with fan controls and other "exclusive Pixel Stand experiences." In order to get those fast 23W speeds, you'll need to be on either the December Android patch (SQ1D.211205.016) or the new January patch (SQ1D.220105.007). Google says you'll also need to walk through the Pixel Stand app's onboarding process too. I should probably point out at this time that there is really only a single phone that can get 23W speeds from Google and that's the Pixel 6 Pro. On the Pixel Stand support page, Google lays out the speed situation for all types of phones, showing only the Pixel 6 Pro reaching the full potential of this $80 stand. The regular Pixel 6 can hit 21W, while all of the older Pixel phones are capped at 10W. Non-Pixel phones can do up to 15W, which is just silly.

23W for Pixel 6 Pro (additional steps needed)
21W for Pixel 6 (additional steps needed)
10W for Pixel 3/3 XL, Pixel 4/4 XL, and Pixel 5
15W for other Qi-compatible devices

Look, it's very cool that the Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) can charge at up to 23W speeds. Those are really great wireless speeds that are as fast as a wired connection and absolutely is a big jump for Google's Pixel phone line-up, a line-up that has always been close to dead last in adopting faster charging tech. But this situation also highlights just how stupid it is that the industry has decided to use proprietary charging solutions going forward.

Telegram Adds Video Stickers, New Reactions, and Crushes Bugs

Tim — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 14:35:41 +0000

Telegram is pushing a new update out to users, available on all of its supported platforms. This is always great news, as Telegram has been the exclusive messaging platform for us here at Droid Life for a while now. I even got my whole family using it after dragging them off of Hangouts/Chat not too long ago. So, what's new in Telegram? I'm glad you asked. Let's take a gander.

Video Stickers

Video Stickers are made from regular videos, allowing anyone to easily create animated stickers via a video editing program. Telegram has gone ahead and created a handy dandy tutorial to do just that. Once you have your video sticker, you can use the existing Stickers bot to upload your creation to the service. [video poster="https://www.droid-life.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Telegram-Android.jpg" width="1080" height="1080" mp4="https://www.droid-life.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/618c31d7b9cea8d591.mp4"][/video]

New Reactions

Telegram has also added new reactions -- . These new reactions should help you get your various points across without having to actually type something. Additionally, it's noted that reactions now have more compact animations. If you wish to send a larger effect, you can press and hold on a reaction in the menu. As a cherry on top, Telegram notes that developers spent multiple weeks solely working to crush bugs on various platforms. Detailed in the company's blog post, "Among other things, they improved call quality, added support for translation to Instant View pages (and bios on iOS), added the option to send silent messages from the sharing menu – and dozens of other improvements." Go snag that update, y'all!

Google Play Link

// Telegram

Google Sold a Record Amount of Pixel Phones Last Quarter

Kellen — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 13:46:12 +0000

Alphabet released its fourth quarter 2021 results today and there is big Pixel-related news out of it. Company CEO, Sundar Pichai, called out the "quarterly sales record" for the Pixel line-up, likely thanks to the launch of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. At the time of this post, Google has not released more specific numbers or added to that quote, but we are waiting for their Q4 earnings call to begin. If they give us additional details, we'll be sure to update this post. UPDATE: During the call, the following is the opening quote on the record quarter from Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai--

In Q4 we set an all time quarterly sales record for Pixel. This came in spite of an extremely challenging supply chain environment. The response to Pixel 6 from our customers and carrier partners was incredibly positive.

However, a "record for Pixel phones" is a big deal for Google, who has struggled mightily in recent years trying to produce a winning smartphone strategy. With the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, they certainly grabbed the attention of folks around here and in the tech space, with a level of excitement for their phones reaching a space I haven't seen in some time. And all of this apparently happened "despite supply constraints." Then again, Google did predict they'd sell a bunch of these new phones. Good work, Google. Now fix all the f*cking software bugs. You can see the Q4 2021 Alphabet earnings report here.

OnePlus 10 Pro May Not Launch With New Unified OS After All

Kellen — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 13:14:52 +0000

Alongside OnePlus' announcement that the one-time buzzworthy brand for enthusiasts would become a sub-brand of OPPO, the company's CEO announced that one of the biggest changes to look forward to would be a big Android OS skin update. They referred to this at the time as a "unified and upgraded operating system" that would merge the best parts of OPPO's ColorOS and OnePlus' OxygenOS. The goal was to launch this with a big 2022 flagship, which we all assumed to be the OnePlus 10 Pro. The OnePlus 10 Pro has already launched in China without the new unified OS (it runs ColorOS), so our assumptions adjusted slightly to the unified OS arriving with the 10 Pro once it hit the global market, including the US. According to a report from 91Mobiles, that may not happen either and there could be a delay. They didn't provide reasons for the delay, only that it is delayed. Their sources believe that OnePlus will launch the OnePlus 10 Pro globally with OxygenOS 12, the same version that phones like the OnePlus 9 already have. It's hard to know how big of a deal this is. OnePlus' slide into this weird sub-brand space under OPPO has not gone over well with the readers of this site, that's for sure, but a brand new Android skin could have given OnePlus a chance to redeem their reputation. Then again, I can't tell you that there is even much excitement around the OnePlus 10 Pro itself, as a phone, so putting on shiny new software might not even help it here. Especially if they call it this. Assuming this report is correct, I hope OnePlus has another phone lined up and ready to go in the near future to launch this new OS with. The OnePlus 10 Pro, running OxygenOS 12 and with those specs, probably isn't going to capture the attention of the tech enthusiast crowd like OnePlus phones up through the OnePlus 7 Pro did.

The Gmail You Use for Work is Getting a Refresh Thanks to Chat and Meet

Kellen — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 10:45:12 +0000

Google is continuing to evolve Gmail as we know it, especially for those who use it within a Workspace account, which used to be GSuite and is the version of Gmail used by work professionals. In a note posted yesterday, Google laid out upcoming plans to further tweak the Gmail web UI to make it easier to move between their other integrated services, like Chat, Meet, and Spaces. The new UI will give you dedicated tabs to jump between Mail, Chat, Spaces, and Meet, rather than try to manage those areas through those tiny little boxes tucked off to the left like you do now. Instead, Google wants there to be big buttons to get into a new area that allow you the full experience of each service without having to open a bunch of tabs. There will also be notification bubbles to let you know of a pending item in another service, "the full array of Mail and Label options" you love about Gmail (without the cramping of Chat, Spaces, and Meet areas below), and soon-to-be-seen email and chat results in search. Here is a preview of what you can expect:

When will this change happen for Google Workspace users? Pretty soon. Starting February 8, you can opt-in to test the new experience. By April of this year, if you have not opted-in, you just might seeing the new UI by default with the option to revert back. By the end of Q2 of this year, the UI above will become the "standard experience for Gmail." To recap, a new Gmail experience is coming to Workspace users and will be the default by the end of Q2. Hope you like it!

Monzo Exits Beta, Now Open to Everyone in US

Tim — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 09:45:19 +0000

If you were once like me, you had a Simple bank account and you really enjoyed it. Then, the dark times came, when Simple shut down forever and forced all of its users to either join the BBVA overlords or go off into the desert in search of a new home. It's no surprise that many Simple users landed upon Monzo as their digital bank of choice, as it very much resembles Simple in the way it conducts business. It's all digital with your account being ran from a smartphone app, having first began its life in the UK, then stretching its fingers into the US via a closed beta. Well, that closed beta has ended, with Monzo now open for any US user to sign-up. US Monzo accounts are provided by Sutton Bank, who technically holds the deposits and protects the money with FDIC insurance. As far as features are concerned, Monzo supports Google Pay and Apple Pay, has a Pots feature for customized savings (there are no standalone savings accounts), ACH fund transfer support, direct deposit, MasterCard-issued debit cards with NFC for tap-to-pay, plus a bunch else. Monzo has always been very transparent in terms of what features it's working on, with a product roadmap available right here. I have had Monzo as my primary checking account since January, 2021. So far, it's totally fine with the one exception being that I can't use the app to deposit checks. Believe it or not, I still have family send me checks for my birthday, so it's a little inconvenient that my bank doesn't support this. It is on the roadmap, though. If you want to give Monzo a look, download the app and have yourself a good time.

Google Play Link

// Monzo

Sneak a Peek at Upcoming Android Auto UI Refresh

Tim — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 08:46:09 +0000

Reports of a refreshed interface for Android Auto have been circulating since last September, with screenshots being posted and words being compiled to detail what would be changing. This week, we're getting a really good look at what Google's been working on, thanks to a user on reddit. An individual who goes by the name RegionRat91 posted the above image, showcasing "Coolwalk," the internal codename for the Android Auto UI overhaul. It's similar to what was seen in September, though, there are notable changes. For one, the status bar has been replaced by all system icons being crammed together in the bottom right corner of the UI. Additionally, it's spotted that Google is beta testing a Cast app for Android Auto, which could allow users to literally cast their phone screens to their car's head unit. It's not known if that will ever be public or simply something for developers to test their apps on, but we shall see. There is no telling when exactly Coolwalk will roll out to the public, but we're certainly getting close. As always, we'll keep you posted. // reddit | XDA

Here's Everything New in Google's Latest System Update [Feb, 2022]

Tim — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 14:36:56 +0000

Google has already posted its System Update changelog for next month (February), allowing end users like us to see what's coming to the company's ecosystem of devices. This time around, we're only seeing one critical fix for smartphones, while Google Play is getting a few new features. If you'll recall, we used to not know what was inside of these updates, but props to Google for making them available. It's nice to know what's being downloaded to our phones. Here is the complete changelog.

February 2022
Critical Fixes

[Phone] Bug fixes for device connectivity, developer services, safety & emergency, system management & diagnostics and utilities related services.

Google Play Store

Improvements to Play-as-you-download feature to let gamers start playing mobile games while the app download continues to reduce waiting times.

New Features to help you discover the Apps & Games you love.

Optimizations allowing faster and more reliable download and installation.

New features to the Play Pass and Play Points programs.

Enhancements to Google Play Billing.

Continuous improvements to Play Protect to keep your device safe.

Various performance optimizations, bug fixes and improvements to security, stability and accessibility.

System Management

Updates to system management services that improve device connectivity, network usage, stability, security and updatability.

Developer Services

New developer features for Google and third party app developers to support ads, accessibility, analytics & diagnostics and machine learning & AI related processes in their apps.

Crosschecking this changelog against January's, the Google Play team doesn't seem to be doing too much, as it's a nearly identical list. It's completely possibly they are still improving Google Play Billing and adding "new features" to help you discover apps and games like they did last month, but it's still a bit odd. Each of the listed items will be available in an upcoming Google Play system update, Google Play services update (updated build number is v22.06.02), and a Google Play Store update (updated build number is v29.2). Those will start to rollout on February 8, according to Google. // Google

iMessage Reactions Going Live in Google Messages

Kellen — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 14:05:33 +0000

The days of "LAUGHED AT" or "LIKED" in your Google Messages app when a friend with an iPhone reacts to your text message are almost over. Actually, they very well may already be over if you are running the latest build of Google Messages Beta. Within the past week, Google Messages Beta picked up an update to build 20220121_02_RC00 that added the functionality for me. Now, should I see a reaction from an iPhone, I get emoji in place of those weird "Questioned 'Blah blah message'" reactions. For example, in the image above, I reacted back to my Galaxy S21 with the "HaHa," question mark, and heart from an iPhone, yet those showed up as the crying-laughing, thinking, and heart-shaped eyes emoji. Tim is also seeing the same reactions change to emoji that are attached to the message being reacted to. We first learned about this upcoming feature back in November, but it was never official from Google, as far as I know. Its rollout has also been sporadic, with most people not seeing it go live until very recently.

Again, this appears to have started going live in recent days with the latest beta update to Google Messages. You can grab that (or sign-up for the beta) at the link below. Then, start looking for those previously annoying iMessage reactions from friends. And if you are on the latest beta and not seeing reactions, you'll find a toggle for the setting in Settings>Advanced and "Show iPhone reactions as emoji." Google Play Link: Google Messages

Fresh Google Play Store and Services Updates Continue Improvements

Kellen — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 09:44:43 +0000

For the third time this month, Google is pushing out new features and improvements to almost all Android phones, thanks to Google Play Store and Google Play Services updates. This time, the changes are minor, but Family Link, Wallet, and gamers should find a little something to be happy about. The new updates are rolling out as of January 28 as Google Play Store v28.9 and Google Play Services v22.02.15. Below, you can see the entire list of what's happening this round. The account management and wallet stuff are coming from the new Google Play Services, while the Store section is, well, coming from the Play Store update. There is also a system management update that talks about daylight savings transitions, and that was apparently part of the January Google Play system update.

Account Management

[Phone, Tablet] Notifications from Family Link on a child's device can redirect to parental controls using the Android Settings in two-pane mode (foldable & large-screen devices only).

[Phone, Tablet] Parents helping their supervised children sign into their device will now be shown an option to also remotely install Family Link on their own device

Google Play Store

Improvements to Play-as-you-download feature to let gamers start playing mobile games while the app download continues to reduce waiting times.

Wallet

[Auto, Tablet, TV, Wear OS, Phone] Some eligible cardholder users will default to SMS verification.

[Auto, Tablet, TV, Wear OS, Phone] Allows purchase, digitization & use of supported transit passes for Pay As You Go (stored balance) in UK.

System Management

Support for new daylight savings time transition changes in various countries.

You can find the previous two updates here and here. To check for updates to the Google Play Store, head into the Store, tap your profile (top right), then Settings>About and tap “Update Play Store.”

Time to Show Off Your Home Screen!

Tim — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 09:13:15 +0000

Surprise, it's time get your home screens spruced up and ready to share with the world! We haven't asked anyone to show off their home screen since Google implemented wallpaper color-based themes inside of Android 12, so I think we're in for some gorgeous screenies this time around. Above, we can see Kellen's Galaxy smartphone running Nova Launcher, the Flux weather app, the Dynamic Material You icon pack, and this wallpaper. Below, you can see my home screen, but it's nothing too special. It is Google's Clock app widget, a pimped out Google Search widget, Samsung's stock launcher, and a wallpaper from my favorite Abstruct app. I need to step my icon game up. Now it's your turn. Below in the comments, you can directly upload a screenshot of your current setup and let us all judge it. Don't worry, we'll be kind.

It's a Good Time to Buy a Galaxy Watch 4: $50 Off Everywhere

Kellen — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 08:57:36 +0000

As you countdown the days to Samsung's Galaxy S22 unveiling, it might be time to start thinking about accessories. If the Galaxy S22 or Galaxy S22 Ultra is indeed on your radar and likely a part of your future, a Galaxy Watch 4 is a sweet accessory to pair with it. After all, Samsung watches work the best with Samsung phones. For the week, Samsung and its retail partners have discounted all Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic models by $50. That gives us a starting price of $199 for the smallest Galaxy Watch 4 and a $329 price for the biggest and most expensive Bluetooth-only Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. Are these the best deals we've ever seen? No, this is. But a $50 discount is still solid during this non-holiday-shopping time. Need reviews? We have you covered. Here is our Galaxy Watch 4 review. Here is our Galaxy Watch 4 Classic review.

Don't forget to reserve your Galaxy S22 today

Shop Galaxy Watch 4 Deals:

Stop Saying "Hey Google, Stop" and Just Say "Stop"

Kellen — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 12:53:58 +0000

Google Assistant can be a useful tool to use from your phone, but also through your smart speaker or display. Weirdly, though, those home units often mistake something we say as the "Hey Google" hotword and can start carrying on a conversation in the background in the most annoying of ways. Telling the Assistant to shut-on-up in those situations is now easier than ever. Google announced this week through a single Tweet that the greatest command ever has been added without the need to first say, "Hey Google." In other words, when your Assistant device is talking at length and you need it to stop, you can simply say "Stop" to quiet it back down. Previously, you had to initiate that stop command with "Hey Google, stop," so this is actually a big damn deal. Going forward, should your smart speaker or display talk at random or for too long, tell it to "stop." And if you are at a friend or family member's house who keeps starting that command with "Hey Google," let them know. Oh, and speaking of shortcuts - everyone knows that with timers or alarms, you can also just say "stop," right? This has been the case for almost 3 years now, yet I know people (my brother, lol) who still don't realize they can stop without the hotword introduction. Maybe I should let him know...whoops. Anyways, a world of yelling "stop" is upon us. Enjoy it. https://twitter.com/Google/status/1486002169404874762

New AT&T Prepaid Unlimited Plan Gets You 5G, Hotspot, and Cloud Storage for $45/Mo

Tim — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 12:40:40 +0000

Prepaid fans, check out this new offer from AT&T, available exclusively from Walmart. Available this week for just $45, you can get the Unlimited MAX with 5G plan, bringing all of the essentials into your life for that enticing monthly price. For the $45/month, you get unlimited talk and text, unlimited high-speed data with access to AT&T's 5G network (speeds get slowed if required after 22GB), 10GB of hotspot data, 100GB of cloud storage, HD video streaming support, as well as unlimited talk and text within and between the US, Mexico, and Canada. Lastly, if you travel to Mexico or Canada, your plan will continue to work, though, your speeds will be slowed.

What's Included

Unlimited talk and text
Unlimited high-speed data with 5G
10GB mobile hotspot
100GB of cloud storage
Fraud call blocking
HD streaming
Mexico and Canada

For $45/month, that's pretty darn good. The only thing is, if you want this plan, you'll need to snag it through Walmart.

Get Unlimited Max with 5G Here

Samsung's Galaxy S22 Reservation List Still Open With Extra Exclusives

Kellen — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 11:45:07 +0000

The unveiling date for the Samsung Galaxy S22 line, including the Galaxy S22 Ultra in its Galaxy Note costume, has been set. We have all marked our calendars to prepare for that instant pre-order period that will open up immediately following the event. February 9 should be lit. But before we get there, you still have a chance to put in that reservation to get extra exclusives from Samsung when it's time to buy. With the launch of every big Galaxy phone in recent years, Samsung has provided a reservation system (like this one) that is absolutely free and requires no promise to buy a Galaxy S22, but should you sign-up to show interest, they try to reward you when it's time to whip out that wallet. For the Galaxy Z Fold 3, as an example, Samsung was guaranteeing an extra $100 credit to spend and letting you setup a multiple device trade-in request. For the Galaxy S22, Samsung is promising the following:

Get an extra $50 Samsung Credit toward other Galaxy products during pre-order.
Look forward to more exclusive offers when it’s time to pre-order.

Alright, let's be honest - those aren't the greatest reserve offers unless the other "exclusive offers" turn out to be really good. $50 extra to spend on accessories is at least something, and that could be on top of an already solid trade-in credit they haven't yet announced. Samsung is also going to let you trade-in multiple devices to bring that price down. Either way, reserving now gets you more money to spend on goodies, with the chance that there are other big offers coming. Speaking of trade-ins, Samsung hasn't yet revealed how much they'll give us for trading in current phones, but we know what they've done for the past two years. For the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy S21, they were offering up to $700 off if you traded in a previous-generation phone. On top of that instant $700-off, they were doing instant $200 credits for you to spend on accessories, like Galaxy Buds and cases, that sort of thing. The chances of Samsung doing that again are extremely high. To recap, the Galaxy S22 reservation system is open for a few more days and it'll get you an extra $50 to spend, plus the opportunity to setup your trade-in for when pre-orders go live. Reserve your Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22 Ultra

H₂OOS, Awful Choice, Considered for OnePlus' Upcoming OS Merger

Tim — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 09:18:24 +0000

OnePlus will soon unveil its unified OS, a merger between its OxygenOS and OPPO's ColorOS, something that's been in the works for some time. And while we hope the actual merge of the two systems is going smoothly enough, much unlike the Android 12 beta, what we do know is that the team in charge of naming this thing are missing the mark badly. Spotted by an online leaker, a trademark for H₂OOS has been discovered, a presumed combination of both the United States' OxygenOS and China's HydrogenOS. There's something about this H₂OOS name I can't get behind. Maybe instead of trying to be cute or clever, we could simply call it WaterOS? That's a nice combo of the two and easy to say. H₂OOS is simply too many syllables. It takes me like 10 seconds to say it out loud. Please don't make me do this, OnePlus. Would now also be a good time to bring up the current state of OnePlus in general? What are they doing over there? They released the OnePlus 10 Pro in China and haven't even provided a timeframe for its US release. We get that China is a huge market, but hello, we like buying things, too! OnePlus be staying on that downward spiral, y'all. // Android Police

Google Play Gets a New "Offers" Tab to Show You...Offers

Kellen — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 08:37:15 +0000

Google Play's bottom bar is getting a new tab called "Offers." As you can probably guess from its name, this will be a tab to find current offers on apps, games, and digital content, many of which will be recommended based on stuff you "might like." Previously, Google Play had an offers section buried within the settings menu and sort of attached to notifications. I can't imagine anyone ever went in there, as it really was out of sight and therefore very much out of mind. It also always seemed to be quite empty, as it is right now, at least for me. This new "Offers" tab will help you find the following, according to Google:

Sales on games and in-game items: find limited-time deals on magic orbs, tokens, and more.
Rewards and bundled offers: see what apps are offering you free delivery, free rides, and other rewards.
Discounts on movies and books: find the latest sales on movies and books to rent or buy.
Try something new: browse apps that are offering 30 days free, and other extended trials at no cost.

The new tab probably isn't showing on your phone just yet and that's because Google is rolllllllllllllllling it out slowly as they so often do. The rollout is underway, but it could take "weeks" before it hits your device. Folks in the US, India, and Indonesia should be on the lookout for this new tab to start, followed by additional countries throughout the year. Anyone seeing it yet?

Counterpoint's Latest Figures: Samsung Sells a Lot of Phones

Tim — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 08:35:23 +0000

Counterpoint Research's 2021 global smartphone shipment numbers have been posted, confirming what was already known -- Samsung sells a lot of phones. Maybe most surprisingly, Samsung's annual shipments grew in 2021, despite the ongoing chip shortage, as well as a COVID-related factory shutdown in Vietnam back in June. YoY, Samsung's shipments grew from 255.7 million units to 270.7 million, mostly thanks to Galaxy A and Galaxy M series sales. It is noted that Samsung's latest foldables saw plenty of success in the premium sector. How does Samsung stack up to other OEMs across the globe? Pretty well, with main opposition being Apple (237.9M shipped) and Xiaomi (190.4M shipped). You then have a long list of Chinese OEMs, such as OPPO, which includes OnePlus, Vivo, Motorola, realme, and Honor. Google didn't crack any top honors list, instead getting categorized with the "Others" at 413.3M units shipped. Another interesting takeaway from the data is Motorola, labeled as the fastest-growing brand among the top 10 smartphone OEMs based on annual global shipments. According to Counterpoint, Motorola took advantage of LG’s smartphone business exit in the US, gaining share in the sub-$300 price segment by offering an array of devices. Motorola also saw a resurgence in Europe, which is great news for them. // Counterpoint

Pixel Stand for $29 is Giving You That Look

Kellen — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 13:55:28 +0000

The original Google Pixel Stand, the one that launched with the Pixel 3 and helped turn your phone into a bit of a smart home display that also acted as a modern alarm clock, is available at Woot once again for about a third of the price. While the Pixel Stand was once the most overpriced wireless charger in the world, it's now sort of worth considering. Originally priced at $80, the Pixel Stand can be had today for $28.99 through a Woot deal. This is a brand new unit, offering 10W "fast" wireless charging to supported Pixel phones, like the Pixel 3 or 4 or 5, as well as the Pixel 6 line. You can setup the Pixel Stand with your Pixel phone to showcase Google Photos galleries, flip to "do not disturb" when in use, and give you some shortcuts to smart home controls. It's pretty unassuming too, thanks to its soft white design and long USB-C cable. Oh, there's an 18W power brick in the box too, which is a big deal for anyone who bought a Pixel 6. The deal is good for a bit, but you may want to hurry before Woot sells out. There is a limit on 2, in case you were planning to go wild and outfit the entire house. Woot Deal Link

Thursday Poll: Are You Over Headphone Jacks and Expandable Storage Yet?

Tim — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 11:05:25 +0000

Alright, it's been a few years with most Android flagships not offering headphone jacks or expandable storage. Has the world ended or are you over it by now? When I think about headphone jacks, I think about LG and its now dead mobile phone business. LG put a lot of effort into bringing the best audio to customers via the headphone jack, but unfortunately, they should have been spending more time on software updates and a better software experience in general. As for expandable storage, you can go with Sony, but they don't seem overly concerned with the US market at all at this point. In the US, we have Samsung and Google (and OnePlus, I guess), with both companies no longer offering flagship devices with a 3.5mm output or expandable storage. I don't see as many people upset by this as I used to, but let's hear your thoughts below. Have you fully adopted the wireless earbuds and internal storage lifestyle? [poll id="578"]

Google Hints at Pixel 6a to Superfans in Coloring Book

Kellen — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 09:58:11 +0000

Prior to the launch of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google opened up its Pixel Superfans group to more people, giving them the opportunity to join others who happened to be as obsessed with Google's hardware. The group has sent out a couple of goodies to members since, mostly in sock form. However, this week, select Pixel Superfans were treated to a package that included a Nest Audio and a really cool coloring book. Inside the coloring book, there is a QR code that launches what appears to be a new colors.withgoogle.com site that lets all of us enjoy a bit of coloring of Google hardware. That coloring book also happens to mention a product that Google has not announced yet, the Pixel 6a. At the back of the coloring book on page 16, Google lists out "featured products" you would find showcased throughout. On page 6-7, it suggests fans will find both the Nest Thermostat and the Pixel 6a.

Unfortunately, that mention appears to be a leftover error and the Pixel 6a is not on page 6 or 7. We aren't sure if Google was planning to announce the Pixel 6a this early or if the coloring book was originally scheduled to ship later, but this seems like a sign of things to come, for sure. Here are those pages for those who want to see with their own eyes:

The rest of the coloring book shows off the Pixel 6, several Nest devices, and the Pixel Buds A. Again, you can view all of this at colors.withgoogle.com if you want to have a little fun today. All of the pages from the coloring book are at that site, and as far as we can tell do not show off the Pixel 6a. For those who haven't kept up with the story of the Pixel 6a, here's a quick recap. We're pretty sure it will look a lot like the Pixel 6, run Google's Tensor chip, and potentially arrive in May. If you'd like to see the rest of the physical coloring book, hit up those comments. Cheers Joseph!

NVIDIA Ships Out HotFix for Bug-Filled SHIELD TV Upgrade

Tim — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 09:18:56 +0000

If you're a SHIELD TV owner, you undoubtedly heard about Experience Upgrade 9.0, filled with bugs o' plenty in what could be seen as one of the worst updates to be rolled out to the very popular Android TV-powered boxes. It's ok, NVIDIA, you're allowed a misstep every now and then considering the software support you've shown owners after all of these years. Recently, NVIDIA announced a HotFix update for many of the issues, which began to be pushed starting last week. According to the changelogs, it addresses many of the issues introduced in EU 9.0, such as SD cards not being detected, storage permission issues, YouTube TV corruption, memory leaks, and plenty else. If you want to see all of the fixes, look here. If you still suffer from bugs, you may want to flash the HotFix update. In order to do that, NVIDIA must manually send you the update, as it's not widely distributed. You'll need to share your device's serial number, allowing NVIDIA to add you to the list. There are some notes about that if you follow the link below. Be sure to read them all. Godspeed, SHIELD TV owners.

Sign Up for Upgrade 9.0 HotFix Image

// NVIDIA

Verizon Galaxy S20 and the Super Old Galaxy Note 9 Get Fresh Updates

Kellen — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 08:51:38 +0000

Now that everyone is updated to Android 12, Samsung is spending some time sending out bug fix after bug fix to its best phones, while maintaining its status as "king." Today, the Galaxy S20 line, as well as the almost-done-getting-updates Galaxy Note 9, are all seeing a new security patch. All of the updates are indeed the January Android security patch that Google pushed out to start the month. It's still January, so that's good timing there from Samsung. Inside the update you shouldn't expect anything flashy, because again, we are simply updating security and (likely) squashing bugs. If Google is still squashing them for its own Pixel phones, I can't imagine that Samsung isn't still doing the same. For new builds, you are looking at the following:

Galaxy S20: SP1A.210812.016.G981VSQS2EVA4
Galaxy S20+: SP1A.210812.016.G986USQS2EVA4
Galaxy S20 Ultra: SP1A.210812.016.G988USQS2EVA4
Galaxy S20 FE: SP1A.210812.016.G781VSQS5EVA4
Galaxy Note 9: QP1A.190711.020.N960USQS9FVA1

To grab each update, head into Settings>System updates>Check for system updates. There's a good chance you can pull them right away.

GeForce NOW Comes to 2021+ LG 4K TVs

Tim — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 08:39:36 +0000

NVIDIA announced this morning that the GeForce NOW app is now available on 2021+ LG 4K televisions via the LG Content Store. This includes support for OLED, QNED, NanoCell, and UHD models. To celebrate the occasion, NVIDIA details that qualifying LG purchases from February 1 to March 27 in the US will come bundled with a 6-month Priority membership to the service. Free GFN membership? Yesh, please. The app is already live on the store (liked below), so have some fun on this beautiful Thursday. Just don't forget a controller.

GeForce NOW on LG Content Store

Samsung Galaxy S22 Lineup Specs [Unofficial]

Tim — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 12:59:27 +0000

Getting a little impatient while we wait for the new Galaxy S22 lineup of devices? I can't say I blame you, as these phones are shaping up to be pretty darn sweet. As far as specs are concerned, Samsung is sparing no expense, as evidenced by the following leak.

Reserve Your Galaxy S22 Now

Thanks to WinFuture, we've got a look at all of the specs for the Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra. We've compiled them into a handy dandy table below. The highlights include 120Hz displays across the board, Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipsets, a base of 8GB RAM, upgraded camera systems, UWB support, IP68 ratings, and plenty else. The only thing we don't know about these phones is confirmed US pricing. We don't like to share that stuff until it's official from Samsung, so we'll have to wait for Galaxy Unpacked to get that. Have a look and let us know what you think below.

Galaxy S22 Lineup Specs

[table id=217 /]

Pixel 6's February Update Might Actually be on Time

Kellen — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 10:06:58 +0000

Look, we know that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro got off to a bit of a rocky start with monthly updates, including a big one from December that was eventually pulled. The thing is, Google will likely get the situation under control in the very near future, as they have done in past years that saw similar update delays to newly released Pixel phones. In fact, the February Pixel 6 update might be right on time. The folks at Canadian carrier, Fido, updated their "OS Upgrade Schedule" this week to show that they are expecting to update the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro with the February Android patch on February 7. For those who don't get how this all works, the 7th of February would be the first Monday of the month, precisely when Google sends out its monthly patches to Pixel phones. So should the Pixel 6 get an update on that day, it would be right on time. How trustworthy is Fido, you ask? Well, they sure seemed to know around the time that Google was planning to release the fixed January update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, although Google surprised everyone by pushing it a couple of days early. They also knew that the December update for the Pixel 6 was originally scheduled for December 13, even if that whole debacle turned out to be worse. They tend to know the update schedule for Pixel phones ahead of time and often post them. While there is no guarantee here that this update will be on time, we figured all of you Pixel 6 owners would like a bit of good news after a couple of months of bad. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro were supposed to be such a huge deal for Google, yet their early stories have not played out well after a botched December update and lack of communication from Google because of the holiday season. The Pixel 6 needs a win. Maybe February will be the start of the turn-around for Google's most important phones.

Verizon Updates 5G Map to Show New C-Band 5G Coverage

Kellen — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 08:45:54 +0000

Verizon fired up its important C-Band 5G network last week under its 5G Ultra Wideband class of 5G. In doing so, they told us that 100 million people would now have access in some 1,700 cities to a much better network experience. Unfortunately, they kicked off the launch without an updated 5G coverage map that would show us exactly where this shiny new 5G could be found. This week, they gave us one. The new Verizon 5G map now shows large areas of their darkest, brightest red to note that it is covered with 5G Ultra Wideband. Previously, areas like my city (Portland, OR) had no 5G UW coverage. As you can see below, Portland and the surrounding areas have all sorts of bright red 5G Ultra Wideband areas today. Up until the past couple of weeks, you had to drive out east of Portland into Gresham to get any of Verizon's 5G UW, and that wasn't of the C-Band variety. Of course, this map could simply be showing where Verizon is planning to launch their new C-Band 5G, so if you are running around your city in neighborhoods with this red color and not getting a big boost in download speeds, that could be why. Also, you would need one of these 5G devices to connect to it.

Not seeing big blotches of bright red? Verizon said that 1,700 cities, with an emphasis on the cities part. However, I'm not sure what they consider a city, as a decent-sized city like Spokane, Washington is not showing any C-Band activity just yet. You'll have to plug-in your own address to see what coverage is expected to be like in your area of the US. To check out Verizon's new 5G map, you'll hit this link. Anyone seeing greatly improved 5G coverage? How has your network experience been over the past week?

Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked Takes Place February 9 at 10AM ET

Tim — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 15:00:02 +0000

Now it's officially official, Samsung will host Galaxy Unpacked on February 9 at 10am ET (7am PT). It is here where we'll be introduced to the new Galaxy S22 family and we assume they'll also show us the new Galaxy Tab S8 family.

Reserve Your Galaxy S22 Here

There isn't much we don't know about these upcoming devices, except for pricing. We know what the phones look like and we know what the tablets look like. Both look like really solid lineups, so if you're a Samsung fan, 2022 is shaping up quite nicely. Mark your calendars!

Would You Keep Your Phone If It Was Supported Longer?

Kellen — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 13:43:08 +0000

Deciding when to upgrade your current phone is a process that likely varies greatly from one person to the next and that's because there are so many different reasons to upgrade. Maybe you saw a shiny new phone in an ad and decided to treat yourself. Maybe your phone broke and needed to be replaced. Maybe you grew sick of your whole crew hating on your green bubble. Maybe you wanted a camera upgrade or better battery life or a larger device. Or maybe your phone is no longer supported by its manufacturer and you realize it's probably best to have an up-to-date phone. That last part is what I want to talk about today. The subject comes up after a VICE article today shared the story of how Google was "forcing" a writer to "dump a perfectly good phone" after cutting off support to it. That phone is the Pixel 3, in case you were wondering, as it's the latest Pixel phone to reach its end-of-life status for monthly security patches and OS updates. Well, we sort of think there might be one more minor update, but either way, January is supposed to be the end of the road for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. As you all know, Pixel phones have long had a support schedule of 3 years, which includes bigger Android version updates as well as monthly security patches. With the Pixel 6 and the use of Google's new Tensor chip, Google has expanded security updates to a full 5 years, yet is holding OS/version updates to the same 3 years. So the story here is that this writer believes 3 years of support simply isn't enough for a modern day phone and that people may not be interested in upgrading if manufacturers were to support their phones for longer periods of time. I can't say I disagree with that, as our readers have told us over the past couple of years that they are now keeping their phones for longer and that they'd gladly welcome additional years of software update support. But I'd also like you to weigh in on that idea in a poll below, because I'm genuinely curious. Are you ditching your phones because they are no longer supported or are you rarely hitting the point where updates are cut off? As an example, you'd have to hold onto a Samsung phone for 4 years before it was cut off. Are you still rocking a Galaxy S9 in its last year of updates or did you upgrade to something well before that happened? And so we're clear, I think it's both reasonable to ask for more years of support and still choose to upgrade before support has been cutoff. If you buy a $1,000 phone, you shouldn't be expected to toss it in the garbage 3 years later after updates dry up. That phone would be more than capable after that many years as a second-hand phone for a family member or for someone on the secondary market who can't spend a grand on a new phone. I guess that's somewhat of a different subject. Either way, let us know. [poll id="577"]

Here's the Galaxy S22 Lineup in Every Color

Tim — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 12:40:01 +0000

Hey, look, it's the Galaxy S22 (reservations already live) lineup in all of its colors! Thanks to @evleaks, we're getting an amazingly detailed look at Samsung's upcoming family of devices, assumed to be launched next month at some point. All we can share is, Unpacked is coming, but we aren't exactly sure when.

Reserve Your Galaxy S22 Here

Below you can view the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ color options. There is white, dark green, pink, and black. You can likely guess which one is my favorite, but if you can't it's certainly that green one. I love it.

And here's the Galaxy S22 Ultra. Looks like we'll have white, dark green, some sort of purplish violet, and black. Same goes for the S22 Ultra, as that green one is calling my name. The white is also pretty hot, so long as the back is matte. Honestly, I'm not see a single bad option for any of the devices, so good luck in choosing.

February is right around the corner. Have you reserved your Galaxy S22 yet? // @evleaks

A New Motorola "Frontier 22" Flagship has Leaked With Mystery High-End Qualcomm Chip

Kellen — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 12:10:19 +0000

Motorola re-entered the flagship arena almost two years ago with the Motorola Edge+, a premium device that was limited to Verizon in the US. After taking another break from selling $1,000 phones, Motorola seems to be eyeing 2022 as another opportunity to go big. A new device codenamed "Frontier 22" just leaked and it all of the stuff you'd want in a high-end phone, even if Motorola didn't get the memo on curved displays. The crew at WinFuture provided both an image and set of specs for this new "Frontier 22" device, including news of a potentially upgraded Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip. You can see the device below, with dramatic curves on all sides (including the display), unique camera setup with large main shooter, and super slim bezels in a body that looks to be mostly glass.

For specs, we are apparently looking at a device with a 6.67" full HD OLED display with 144Hz refresh rate, up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, 4500mAh battery, under-display fingerprint reader, stereo speakers, WiFi 6E, NFC, and a 60MP selfie camera. Additionally, WinFuture believes this phone runs the Snapdragon SM8475, which could be a plus version of the current Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (SD8450). We've seen Qualcomm release + variants in this past, so this wouldn't anything widely out of the ordinary. As for that odd-looking camera, the main sensor is rumored to be 200MP with OIS, while 50MP wide and 12MP telephoto lenses join in on the party. Those 200MP shots will likely be binned to 50MP, I'd imagine. A current rumored date of launch is sometime around July, so yeah, this is a really early look. Is a high-end Motorola phone something you'd consider if they sold it here in the US?

READ: Motorola Edge+ review

Are You Paying $1,400 for the Pixel Notepad Foldable?

Tim — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 08:34:38 +0000

The latest intel concerning Google's foldable device, reported to be called the Pixel Notepad, mentions a price that the company is shooting for at launch. As detailed by 9to5Google, the price would be $1,400, which is quite a jump from Google's most expensive smartphone, Pixel 6 Pro at $899. Of course Google's foldable would be more expensive than a regular ol' smartphone. That's apples to oranges. But what if we compare oranges to oranges? Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 3 is $999, while the Z Fold 3 is $1799. It's essentially known we should expect a form factor closer to the Z Fold 3 (OPPO's Find N, to be exact), and if that's accurate, then this pricing is very competitive. For specs, all that's been mentioned is the presence of a Tensor chipset, as well as Google's reversion to using the same IMX363 camera sensor we've had in Pixels since the dawn of man. It's a fine sensor, but damn. Then there's the software we need to address. At $1,400, buyers should expect a very smooth and polished experience. Is that what we've all had recently on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro? Nope, so my fingers are crossed that Google gets that sorted with the next security patch. Share your thoughts below on the idea of a $1,400 Pixel Notepad device. I'm very curious following the last couple of months of Pixel ownership. It's been tough. // 9to5Google

Verizon Galaxy S21, Galaxy S9 Families Getting Patched Up

Tim — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 13:31:59 +0000

Verizon is shipping out a few fresh software updates this week, all of which are security patches. Both the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S9 families are getting patches, with the S21 lineup getting the January patch and the S9 series getting December's patch. I'm not seeing anything listed inside of the changelog besides the patch, but if anybody spots something new, feel free to let us know. Below you can see the updated build numbers, good for confirming you're on the latest and greatest.

Updated Software Build Numbers

Galaxy S9: G960USQU9FUL1
Galaxy S9+: G965USQU9FUL1
Galaxy S21: G991USQU5BULJ
Galaxy S21+: G996USQU5BULJ
Galaxy S21 Ultra: G998USQU5BULJ

Go get it. // Verizon

Newly Spotted Codename Hints at Another Google TV Device

Tim — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 12:09:36 +0000

A newly spotted codename is hinting that Google is working on a fresh Chromecast device, one that would be powered by Google TV. The codename is Boreal, discovered and linked to the exact same software used by the existing Chromecast With Google TV device (codename Sabrina). At this time, it's entirely unknown if this would be a sequel to the Chromecast With Google TV, a simple upgrade with more storage, or a completely new device altogether that would be sold alongside the existing Chromecast dongle. According to 9to5Google, the device, whatever it may be, will launch later this year. We wish we had more to share beyond just the codename, but that's life sometimes. Personally, while I really like the Chromecast With Google TV's software, I feel that it's performance really keeps me loyal to the SHIELD TV. If there was a more powerful Google TV device that was sub-$99, I'd sign up immediately. Thoughts? // 9to5Google

Surface Duo Receives Android 11, Finally

Tim — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 10:14:35 +0000

Holy moly, the Surface Duo is getting Android 11 right now! As you may already know, we've given Microsoft a hard time due to its lack of software support for this $1,400 device, but finally, we can put this issue to bed. That is, until it's time for Surface Duo to receive Android 12, which is what it should be receiving and not this. According to Microsoft's changelog for this waaay-late update, users can expect a gang of features on top of Android 11 base stuff. For example, we've got Xbox Game Pass, lots of new preferences options in the settings menu, bug fixes a plenty, and much more. Microsoft notes that for, "locked or unlocked AT&T Surface Duos, we are testing this release and it is pending final validation." If that doesn't apply to you, go snag this update! We know you've been waiting a very long time. // Microsoft

Pixel 6a Gets Penciled In for May Launch

Tim — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 08:11:55 +0000

We have been following the Pixel 6a since the first renders were posted back in November of last year, which when said like that sounds like a long time ago. It was actually only a couple of months. What we learned from those renders, the same renders seen above in the header image, is that the Pixel 6a should look very much like the standard Pixel 6, which isn't a bad thing at all. This week, we're now getting an idea of when we can expect to be able to buy one. According to @MaxJmb on Twitter, Google has scheduled the device's launch for this May, which is a tad earlier than what we saw with the Pixel 5a. That's the only new info we have, but when combined with previous, such as the report that the phone will be powered by a Google Tensor chip, the picture is coming together quite nicely. No word yet on pricing, but you can bet that it'll be extremely competitive. Care to take a care in the comments below? We'll keep our eyes on this one. // @MaxJmb

Google Pixel "At a Glance" Starts to Get New Batch of Features

Kellen — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:38:12 +0000

The "At a Glance" widget that Google won't let us turn off on Pixel phones is finally going to do more than show you the weather and your commute times and calendar appointments. It was previously rumored to be getting a sizable list of new integrations and those have now begun to rollout to devices, including the Pixel 6. Likely thanks to a Google app update that rolled out earlier in the week, the At a Glance options have started to show three new "features" for you to toggle on or off. Those new options are "Timer & stopwatch," "Bedtime," and "Fitness." They should be mostly self-explanatory, but let's talk briefly about each.

Timer & stopwatch: Google lists it as pulling timer and stopwatch info from the Clock app on your phone. We hope this means it'll pull up timely shortcuts to previous timers and stopwatches depending on your usage.
Bedtime: Google explains it as "your upcoming bedtime from the Clock app." For those who use the Bedtime setting, we assume this is going to show as a reminder that your Bedtime schedule is about to kick in and potentially change settings.
Fitness: For this option, Google says it'll simply show "activity info from your fitness app." This really should just show you recent activities, like a run or workout, which is a piece of info I'm not sure anyone needs there.

These aren't the only features we are expecting, though. As I mentioned above, a previous report had 8 new features on the way and this is only 3. The others include an integration of shopping-related cards or lists when at a store, summary of connected devices, notifications from something like your doorbell, a flashlight reminder, and a safety check. Here's what we wrote about those other 5 features previously:

At a store: If you are at a supported store, you could see shopping lists, Google Pay rewards cards
Connected devices: When Bluetooth devices are connected, it could show you battery. I’d still rather have this widget.
Doorbell: You could see a notification or shortcut to view your doorbell when it rings
Flashlight: A home screen reminder that your flashlight is on
Safety check: A safety check countdown from the Personal Safety app

Again, I'd really like to turn this entire area off and reclaim it for use with my own widgets, but if Google is going to force it on us, new features could get us to appreciate it once again. // 9to5Google

It's Time to Reserve the Galaxy S22 Ultra

Kellen — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:27:19 +0000

An official announcement for Samsung's next Unpacked event hasn't yet materialized, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't go ahead and reserve the Galaxy S22 or Galaxy S22 Ultra today. And yep, you can actually do that through Samsung's site as a way for the company to get a feel for your interest and for you to grab a couple of extra freebies should you end up buying one. Like with every major Samsung launch, you can now place a reservation (here) for the Galaxy S22 line. This time, they are letting you reserve their upcoming new tablet too, which should be the Galaxy Tab S8. That reservation doesn't cost you a thing or lock you into purchasing one, just so we are clear. All this really does is tell Samsung you are interested and then gets you a couple of extra items. Those items are an extra $50 to spend on other Samsung goodies when the time comes to buy your Galaxy S22 Ultra, as well "more exclusive offers." It often means you'll get an email to purchase before most people do. Once you place that reservation, Samsung will let you "Fast-track your pre-order" by telling them if you have a device to trade-in. They haven't given us trade values yet, but with the Galaxy S21, they told us to expect at least up $700 off. Need a recap on the Galaxy S22 line? Think of the S22 and S22+ as small upgrades to last year's Galaxy S21 and S21+. The big change is coming to the Galaxy S22 Ultra, which is basically the rebirth of the Galaxy Note line. It'll have an S Pen, improved camera, and a design Note fans will love. Reservation Link

Amazon Spills Beans on Galaxy Tab S8 Lineup Specs, Extremely High Pricing

Tim — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 12:01:56 +0000

Amazon Italy and France have let slip essentially everything we need to know about the upcoming Galaxy Tab S8 lineup (reservations now open!). That lineup consists of the Tab S8, Tab S8+, and Tab S8 Ultra. This isn't our first time hearing about these devices when it comes to specs, but most interestingly, we're getting an idea of what to expect in terms of pricing. Spoiler alert: It's gonna hurt. That Tab S8 Ultra is the heavy hitter, so let's recap that tablet. It's detailed to feature a 14.6-inch (2960 x 1848) 120Hz display, Snapdragon chipset, massive 11,200mAh battery, impressive rear camera system, S Pen support, and Android 12. As far as Android tablets are concerned, it will be the tippity top of the food chain. According to the information displayed on Amazon, this tablet will be priced at €1,159 for the WiFi-only model. For 5G connectivity? €1,308. Converted to US dollars, which may or may not be the case (we won't know until Samsung makes it official), that's nearly $1,500. Things will undoubtedly get less expensive if you don't require such amazing specs. Presumably the least expensive entry would be the WiFi-only Galaxy Tab S8, featuring an 11-inch display (2560 x 1600), Qualcomm chipset, single 13MP rear camera, the same S Pen support, 8,000mAh battery, and Android 12. We don't have pricing yet for the S8 and S8+ models, but feel free to place your predictions down below. For more spec info on this lineup, see our past writeup. Regardless of price, these are some handsome looking tablets. It sucks that their cost will likely keep many away, but if you want a good Android tablet experience, you'll need to pay up. Samsung has already opened reservations for the tablets, so if you're interested, you can sign-up below. There is no money down or commitment necessary, just FYI.

Reserve Your Galaxy Tab S8

// Pocketnow

Samsung Confirms Unpacked for February, Galaxy S22 Reservations Start Tomorrow

Tim — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 15:19:58 +0000

UPDATE: Reservations open! RESERVE HERE.

Samsung has confirmed this week that its next Unpacked event will take place in February (a couple of weeks away) and fans should get ready for the "ultimate Ultra experience." Typically, Samsung would give us an actual day the event is to take place, but maybe due to COVID they're keeping it fluid right now? The day doesn't really matter, though. Most importantly, we have many devices to look forward to, notably the Galaxy S22 lineup that will include the Galaxy S22 Ultra, plus we're also anticipating the arrival of the new Galaxy Tab S8 lineup. Here's a fun little excerpt from Samsung's post.

At Unpacked in February 2022, we’ll introduce you to the most noteworthy S series device we’ve ever created. The next generation of Galaxy S is here, bringing together the greatest experiences of our Samsung Galaxy into one ultimate device. With it, you will own the night — taking the best and brightest photos and videos you’ve ever captured with a phone. You will also dominate the day with power, speed and tools that can’t be found elsewhere. You will enjoy cutting edge-innovations made possible thanks to the smartest Galaxy experience yet. All while feeling good about being part of the most sustainable Galaxy ecosystem. And, yes, you will help Samsung rewrite the future of smartphones once again. Get ready for the ultimate Ultra experience.

This has to be exciting for Ultra fans. What should also be exciting? According to The Verge, you'll be able to pre-order (more like reserve) the Galaxy S22 Ultra starting tomorrow on Samsung's website, sight unseen. This isn't the first time Samsung has allowed buyers to do this, so it's nice to see this hype move live on. We're sure to learn much more about the Galaxy S22 in the coming days and weeks. // Samsung

T-Mobile Really Wants You to Know They are Not a Part of the C-Band 5G Airline Drama

Kellen — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 12:16:06 +0000

The ongoing back and forth between the FAA and airlines and Verizon and AT&T over deployment of C-Band 5G around airports is not the most interesting of subjects. I wouldn't blame you for not really following closely along with it. However, it is important to know that the network both carriers are trying to push is the actual good kind of 5G that should (finally) improve your network experience. That said, there is one carrier I didn't mention above who really wants you to know that their network is humming along and is not at all a part of that ongoing drama. Yes, T-Mobile is that carrier and they have what is likely the current-best 5G network in the US. T-Mobile has deployed low, mid, and a touch of high-band 5G, but their mid-band 5G is the most important and it sort of relates back to what's going on with Verizon and AT&T. Well, it relates in that T-Mobile's mid-band 5G (2.5 GHz) is all good with the FAA and airlines. The C-Band 5G (3.7-4.2 GHz) from Verizon and AT&T, which is also mid-band, operates at a different frequency than T-Mobile's and is creating safety concerns. I should point out that in a statement today, T-Mobile acknowledged that C-Band is being safely used all over the world and that they "strongly encourage our partners at the FAA and airlines to resolve all concerns." They made that statement because they too own C-Band spectrum and want to deploy it in 2023. But for now, what T-Mobile really wants you to know is that all of this 5G safety stuff in the news about airlines being ground to a halt and passengers being stranded overseas and commerce collapsing in the US has nothing to do with their network. Their mid-band 5G has been cleared for takeoff for some time. Sorry, had to. Got any good T-Mobile mid-band 5G or "5GUC" speedtests to share? I ran a couple yesterday that were a solid 300Mbps down and 40Mbps up.

Google Play Games Beta for PC Launches Outside of US

Tim — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 08:43:04 +0000

Late last year, Google announced Google Play Games for the PC platform, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite mobile titles on their desktop and laptop computers. This week, Google has launched a beta for this, but sadly, it's not for users in the US. The beta is currently limited to PC users in Taiwan, South Korea, and Hong Kong. We have no word on when US gamers can expect to test this out for themselves, but we would at least hope for a global launch before or around Google I/O time later this year.

As detailed by Google, you can expect a very refined experience. So long as the app is supported, you'll be able to quickly locate and download your favorite title, access cloud saves that were started from your phone and vice versa, as well as play games with a mouse and keyboard. Google also says that you'll be able to earn Play Points for Google Play Games activity on PCs. Follow the link below to be notified on further happenings regarding this beta.

Sign Up for Notifications

// Google

Can Your Phone Connect to Verizon's New C-Band 5G Network?

Kellen — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 13:54:17 +0000

We've talked a lot this week about the launch of C-Band 5G and how it'll finally bring a good 5G experience to Verizon and AT&T customers. The thing is, we didn't mention which devices will work and you are probably staring at yours right now wondering if you need to upgrade or if the faster speeds of C-Band will soon be a part of life. Here's what we know. For now, the Verizon C-Band 5G device list is pretty limited to newer iPhone models and the newest from Samsung. Going forward, though, we should expect most phones to be compatible, including Google's Pixel 6 line. According to The Verge, the official list of Verizon C-Band 5G devices is:

Samsung: Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3
Google: Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro (coming soon)
Apple: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation), or iPad mini (6th generation)

As you can see, if you bought a Samsung device during 2021 or an iPhone from 2020 through 2021, you should be good to go. If you bought a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, for some reason, you are going to have to wait a while for C-Band support to kick in. We aren't sure if that will require an update to activate or if Google and Verizon are simply going through the certification process. Either way, lol. And as I mentioned, going forward, phones like the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra will most definitely be C-Band ready, as will an iPhone 14 and Pixel 7 and whatever additional new high-end device shows up in 2022. Anyone seeing C-Band 5G yet?

Verizon's C-Band 5G is Live and Their 5G Home Might be the Play

Kellen — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 09:19:33 +0000

Now that everyone has shared their frustrations with the US government and airline industry and made adjustments to rollouts, Verizon and AT&T have gone ahead and fired up their very important C-Band 5G networks. Today's big activation means better network coverage and speeds in more places, although we're taking baby steps out of the gate. AT&T's C-Band news can be found here, so let's talk in this post about what Verizon is doing today.

Verizon C-Band Coverage

Verizon is saying that starting today, their C-Band network will cover more than 100 million people in over 1,700 cities. That's a good chunk of the nation and ahead of AT&T's 8 cities, but far behind T-Mobile's over 200 million people. After looking at their coverage map, it doesn't appear to be updated with the C-Band rollout. You'll just have to cruise around your city and look for that "5G UW" logo to know if you are on C-Band or not.

C-Band is 5G Ultra Wideband

Speaking of the "5G UW" logo, you'll see that because Verizon is including C-Band in their 5G Ultra Wideband network label, which is in reference to their best and fastest 5G experience. Previously, 5G Ultra Wideband was for 5G mmW, a network technology that Verizon mistakenly bet on early as a way to write headlines based on speeds, yet few Americans have ever found its signal. Either way, C-Band is included in 5G UW, so if you see that logo, it doesn't mean you are on 5G mmW - it could mean C-Band. You'll probably know because C-Band is fast, but not 1Gbps fast and it also works in buildings, unlike mmW. So if you are in your office building or home and see that logo, it's probably C-Band. That's why C-Band is so important, because it brings both speeds and coverage. Verizon's "nationwide" 5G network has coverage yet is often slower than their 4G LTE network. Their 5G mmW network is stupidly fast, yet you'll rarely find it and it struggles to work through a window or without direct line-of-sight to a tower. C-Band, which is mid-band 5G, brings the best of those two together in a way. How do you get access to 5G Ultra Wideband? You need to be on one of Verizon's supported plans, like these new 5G unlimited plans. All have 5G UW access except for the base 5G Start plan.

READ: Here is a list of Verizon devices that are C-Band 5G ready.

5G Home expands and is 50% off

One of the biggest bits of news from this C-Band activation is related to home internet. Verizon's 5G Home service now expands to 20 million households and is available at pretty great prices, assuming you have coverage and are on one of their qualifying unlimited wireless plans. 5G Home comes in two flavors: 5G Home or 5G Home Plus. Those would typically cost $50/mo or $70/mo, but if you are on a 5G Play More, 5G Do More, or 5G Get More wireless plan, you'll save up to 50% off that monthly price. So you could pay as little as $25/mo for Verizon's 5G Home internet service.

Which plan should you choose? Looking at the comparison sheet above, I don't really know why you would get the 5G Home Plus over the regular 5G Home plan unless you want an extra year of price guarantee and want extended free subscriptions to streaming services. Otherwise, both plans are almost identical. And that's today's big 5G news from Verizon. You should soon get a 5G network connection that isn't buns, like the current "nationwide" 5G that Verizon has, plus you may be able to get really cheap 5G Home internet. // Verizon

Samsung is Selling Refurbed Galaxy Watch 4 Units Starting at $138

Tim — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:53:12 +0000

Samsung's official eBay store is selling refurbished Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic units (both 40mm and 44mm), starting at as low at $138. Is that good compared to the usual starting price of $249? Yes, it absolutely is. While some may shy away from refurbished, these Samsung refurbed models come with a free 2-year warranty from Allstate. Essentially, there's no real downside to getting one of these watches, with exception being there could potentially be small signs of wear out of the box. The watches should be in "like-new" condition and do come with original packaging. Samsung also has all of the colors available, too. For the smaller Watch4 40mm unit, the price is $138. For the 44mm, the price is $154. If you want the Watch 4 Classic, the 42mm will run you $193, while the 46mm option costs $209. This is thanks to an additional 15% Samsung is taking off of the purchase. Shipping is also free. It's a good deal, folks. These are still the only watches running the latest Wear OS 3.0 platform.

Samsung's eBay Store Link

Cheers Ryan!

AT&T Deploys C-Band Spectrum in 8 Markets

Tim — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:27:08 +0000

AT&T announced this morning that it has begun deploying its C-Band spectrum in 8 markets, ranging from Orlando, FL to Chicago, IL. C-Band is meant to compliment AT&T's existing 5G efforts (like mmWave), but as you may have seen around the web already, there's quite a bit of drama surrounding both Verizon and AT&T's deployment. Without diving back into competing narratives that are being pushed by both the telecom and airline industries (two entities that exist to make money and lots of it), all we as consumers need to know is that C-Band should deliver great speeds with great coverage. The end. Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain.

8 Markets With AT&T C-Band

Dallas/Fort Worth
Houston
Austin
Chicago
Detroit
Jacksonville
Orlando
Miami

As for which devices can access said C-Band, it's not a huge list, but it'll continue to grow. For Android, it includes the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, as well as most recent Samsung Galaxy devices -- Z Fold 3, S21 lineup, A13 5G, etc. When connected to C-Band spectrum, you'll see a 5G+ indicator on your smartphone. To learn more about AT&T's C-Band, you can read up on it here.

YouTube TV is Getting The Weather Channel

Kellen — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 16:02:34 +0000

The Weather Channel is coming to YouTube TV. Yep, that's the word out of a deal announced today between Google and Allen Media Group (AMG). While talking up a cloud services agreement, the press release for the news also brought up the famed weather tracking channel you've probably all turned to during a big storm or weather event. While The Weather Channel isn't available just yet, AMG said to expect it at some point in 2022 (this year). We don't know if a price increase will come with it or if your $65/mo subscription will stay the same, although I kind of doubt The Weather Channel would usher in another moment of anger for subscribers after that whole ESPN debacle. And that's all I've got for you. The Weather Channel is coming to YouTube TV this year.

T-Mobile Dominates Latest Network Speed, 5G Availability Metrics

Tim — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 14:47:40 +0000

Speedtest Intelligence, provided by Ookla, has the latest figures concerning network speed, consistency, 5G availability, and other markers among the top three mobile US carriers: T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. As the data shows, T-Mobile is crushing the opposition and it's not even really all that close right now. According to SI, when it comes to being the fastest provider, T-Mobile has a median download speed of 90.65Mbps. That's much faster than AT&T's median speed of 49Mbps for AT&T and twice that of Verizon's 44Mbps. Median latency was also calculated, with each carrier marked at the low 30ms range. Consistency tests, that being the carrier's ability to provide consistent speeds, showed T-Mobile also took top honors here. T-Mobile scored a 87.3%, while Verizon scored an 80.4% and AT&T scored 80.2%. 5G Performance is where T-Mobile really decided to shine. According to these tests, T-Mobile delivered a median 5G download speed of 187.12Mbps, crushing Verizon's 78Mbps and doing the same to AT&T's 68Mbps. The last part we want to highlight is 5G availability. As you can guess by now, T-Mobile did very well in this category, too. The way this is measured is the, "percentage of users on 5G-capable devices that spend the majority of their time on 5G, both roaming and on-network." T-Mobile took the crown with 61.4%, followed by AT&T's 48% and then Verizon's lowly 36.4%. While these numbers are fun for the number crunchers, everyone's case is different. What looks good on paper may not translate into real world results. For example, Verizon may still have the best coverage for your home, which is perfectly fine. Go with what works best for you, but if you rely on Ookla to tell you which carrier is the best bang for your buck, it's looking like T-Mobile is a clear winner among the three. // Speedtest

Verizon and AT&T Still Plan 5G Launch Tomorrow, Just Not Around Airports

Kellen — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 11:09:42 +0000

Verizon and AT&T had set January 19 as the day they would fire up their fancy C-Band 5G networks after delaying for a couple of weeks due to concerns from the FAA and airline industry. Tomorrow is still go-live day for both, but a last minute call for a pause from the airline industry has frustrated both carriers, who have now agreed to activate their networks, just not around all airports. Yesterday, a group of airlines and cargo carriers warned, according to Reuters, that if Verizon and AT&T were allowed to turn on their C-Band networks near airports, that it could cause "chaos" for US flights, stranding passengers across the globe and massively screwing the nation's commerce. Verizon and AT&T have now released statements confirming that they will go live with their C-Band networks, but will voluntarily limit their networks around certain airports and airports runways. Both also made it clear that they aren't happy with the FAA taking this long to clear all of these worries up, worries that aren't an issue in "more than 40 other countries." We aren't sure how long it'll take the FAA and the airline industry to find safe solutions for these carriers to use their C-Band networks near all airports, but we'll certainly keep you updated. For now, all you need to know is that if you are hanging out not near an airport, tomorrow is a big day for your 5G signal on Verizon and AT&T. C-Band is their mid-band 5G solution that will bring big improvements in speed without the need to be standing next to a tower. This is the good 5G, which T-Mobile has been using to separate itself in the 5G wars. T-Mobile has already pushed out its mid-band 5G to some 200 million people.

New Google Play Store and Services Updates Add 10 New Items to Your Devices

Kellen — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 09:39:41 +0000

At the end of last year, Google started to post changelogs for the Google Play System Updates it issues to Android devices (phones, watches, TVs, and tablets). The introduction of a changelog for these updates is somewhat of a big deal because for the first few years of these updates, we had no idea what was in them. They were a mystery, which is not awesome knowing that they impact almost every single device running Android. The world first noticed these changelogs a week ago with a January update. The update listed out 10 changes you could see on your Android device, from critical fixes to system management stuff and Google Play Store improvements. Today, Google further updated the January update page to include another 10 items that will show up through Google Play Services and the Google Play Store. These new updates will be available as Google Play Services v22.02.03 and Google Play Store v28.8. This fresh round of updates began rolling out on January 14. So what's new? Well, Google says it is improving the support experience and adding manual credential adds to the Google Password Manager. There is new discovery flow to explain what's new in major system updates, a new way to sign-in to Android TVs with your Android phone, improvements in several Wallet areas, and a couple of Developer Services items.

Account Management

[Auto, Phone, Tablet, TV, Wear OS] Improve the support experience for the Google Account on Android by serving more relevant content to users based on entry point.

Security & Privacy

[Phone] With password addition, you can manually add credentials for apps and sites to the Google Password Manager.

Support

[Auto, Tablet, TV, Wear OS, Phone] New user discovery flow on supported Android devices to explain what's new in a major operating system update.

Utilities

[Phone] With the update to Android TV, users will have a new way of signing in to their TV using Android Phones.

[Phone] With updates to the new version of Contact UI, users can opt in to consents.

Wallet

[Phone] Users will have the ability to search for the agency they are looking for without manually scrolling.

[Auto, Tablet, TV, Wear OS, Phone] Some eligible cardholder users will default to SMS verification.

[Phone, Wear OS] Improvements to Wallet landing experience.

Developer Services

New developer features for Google & 3rd party app developers to support ads, analytics & diagnostics, machine learning & AI related developer services in their apps.

Improvements to the Sign in with Google user interface.

Again, these new updates began rolling out a couple of days ago. To check for updates to the Google Play Store, head into the Store, tap your profile (top right), then Settings>About and tap “Update Play Store.”

SHIELD TV's Android 11 Upgrade Brings Wave of Issues (Updated)

Tim — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 09:27:34 +0000

I'd like to preface this post by saying that NVIDIA is the first OEM to ship out the Android 11 upgrade to an Android TV-powered device. Even Google's own hardware, like the Chromecast with Google TV, is still running Android 10. Now with that note out of the way, I can honestly ask, what the heck is up with NVIDIA's Android 11 upgrade for the SHIELD TV lineup? I haven't upgraded my SHIELD TV (2019, aka Little Tube Guy) to Android 11 yet and after reading through the SHIELD TV reddit, I don't plan to. As we're now seeing, owners are running into many issues. For example, Plex Media servers are busted, a lot of apps haven't yet been optimized/updated to run smoothly on Android 11 (this is due to developer access, not NVIDIA's fault), as well as a black screen bug after boot-up which appears to be related to a handshake issue between SHIELD TV and your actual TV. The list of issues is pretty long, with some of these bugs rather major, so we've reached out to NVIDIA to see what's going on. We're waiting to hear back and will update this post once we hear back. While we wait to hear NVIDIA's plans to correct some of these issues, we'd like to know if any of you are experiencing problems. Any issues among the Droid Life community with the SHIELD TV 9.0 upgrade? Update: NVIDIA has supplied the following statement, giving us insight into what the issues are. The TL;DR version is, Android 11 permission settings appear to be the main issue.

The latest software upgrade introduced an issue where “Allow only while using the app” behaves the same as “Don’t allow.” As a result, many apps that depend on “Files and Media” permissions to browse and view file data – like PLEX Media Server, MX Player and VLC – are not working properly.

We are working with Google to address this issue as quickly as possible. In the meantime, functionality for many of these apps can be restored by manually setting the “Files and Media” permission of the app to “Allow all the time” or “Allow,” depending on the app and permissions.

In some cases, users have been able to uninstall, then reinstall the app to restore functionality.

Additionally, for PLEX Media Server users, there is a known issue if you have migrated your library metadata to external storage. We are working on a solution with PLEX to get this resolved as soon as possible.

We'll keep you posted. Cheers Tyler!

Hey, Here's the Galaxy S22+

Tim — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 11:26:27 +0000

We're getting close, Samsung fans. Very soon, we should see Samsung announce the Galaxy S22 lineup, which will include the Galaxy S22+. I bring that device up specifically because thanks to 91mobiles, we're getting a real good look at what to expect from the larger of the non-Ultra models. We have already gotten fantastic looks at the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra, so the S22+ was really the only phone we hadn't had direct eyes on. These renders help close that gap, though, of course it looks just like the smaller S22 and there isn't much else to say.

Specs wise, it's expected the S22+ will feature a 6.55-inch display, latest Snapdragon processor, triple rear camera setup, 4,500mAh battery, and Android 12 (One UI 4.0). For colors, we can look to a previous leak and get an idea of what to expect. Bring on the new-new, Samsung. // 91mobiles

Well, How's the Pixel 6 January Update?

Kellen — Sat, 15 Jan 2022 08:54:08 +0000

The January update on your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro probably just finished up its marathon "optimizing" session and you are still trying to figure out what Google fixed or changed after two months of not seeing an update, but we still want to know how things are going. After all, this almost-2-month-gap in updates took the Pixel 6 line from beloved Google redeemer to unveiling an army of big mad "I'm buying an iPhone!" guys. This update is kind of important. In the update, Google has attempted to fix 100 or so bugs, some critical. There are battery and charging improvements, additional fingerprint reader improvements, several camera adjustments, Adaptive Brightness response time increases, improvements to Quick Tap, fixes for always-on display not turning on, and 20+ things related to the user interface of Android 12. They also tried to fix poor network connections and performance, WiFi drops, and that emergency calling bug. On top of the fixes, this is a Pixel Feature Drop too! There isn't much new in this drop, but Google did improve Now Playing in two ways, there's a new Snapchat Quick Tap shortcut, and the UWB in the Pixel 6 Pro can now be used by a tiny group of people. I've been mostly using a regular Pixel 6 since the January update dropped and all seems to be good for now. Performance is still good in general, but yeah, the fingerprint is and will always be buns. Battery life seems quite solid at the moment, even during this short testing period. I'll do some network testing here in a bit. What about you - how has your Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro experience been since you grabbed the update yesterday?

Going Up: Netflix Raises Prices Again Across All Tiers

Tim — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 14:07:43 +0000

Friendly heads up to my fellow Netflix subscribers -- your monthly Netflix bill is about to get more expensive. According to Reuters, once the price hike takes place, the new prices will be as follows: Basic plan goes to $10/month ($1 more), Standard plan goes up to $15.50/month ($1.50 more) while the Premium plan goes to $19.99/month ($2 more). Is this awesome news? Heck no, price hikes are never cool. However, Netflix is one of those companies that can get away with such moves because they continuously pump out really good content. Their exact reasoning for price hikes is content, seeing as how they want to spend billions on it per year. As a user that seems like a fair trade. These changes have already taken affect for new customers, though, if you're already subscribed, your current price hasn't changed quite yet. Oh well. // Reuters

Verizon Galaxy S10 Lineup Gets Android 12!

Tim — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 13:01:19 +0000

Samsung continues its push to update every single device it has ever released to Android 12. I'm exaggerating a bit, but seriously, what Samsung is accomplishing right now should go down in the history books. Today, the Galaxy S10 lineup on Verizon is beginning to receive the One UI 4.0 update. Inside, owners will be treated to the January patch, Color Themes, enhances privacy settings, the updated Samsung Keyboard, plus much, much more in Android 12.

Updated Build Numbers

Galaxy S10: G973USQU6HULD
S10+: G975USQU6HULD
S10e: G970USQU6HULD

Pop them bottles, Samsung owners. You're all winners. // Verizon

Pixel 6 January Update Files Already Live! (Update: OTA Live Too!)

Kellen — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 11:29:34 +0000

We thought Google would wait to post the big January update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro on Monday, but they went ahead and gave us the files today. If you are ready to do some flashing, you can get on it immediately with either factory image or OTA builds. The new January builds for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are here as SQ1D.220105.007. Google did not list out any specifics, so we will assume for now that these are global builds for all. However, if you don't trust our gut there, feel free to hold off until we get some clarifications or Google posts notes. Also, I wouldn't blame you for holding off for now. After all, Google gave us December builds to manually flash too, only to then pull those weeks later while confirming the builds had serious issues. If you want to wait for the over-the-air update to hit, lets give Google a few more days. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go. Pixel 6 January Update Files: Factory Image | OTA

UPDATE: The over-the-air update is live! To grab it, head into Settings>System update>Check for updates.

UPDATE 2: If you are updating from the November Android patch, the update weighs in at 215MB. If you were on the December patch and update, you should see a 40MB update.

Need a refresher on bug fixes? The December list is here. The January list is here.

Pixel 6's Big January Update Could Show Up January 17 (Updated: Live Early!)

Kellen — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 10:00:20 +0000

Should you still own a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro and haven't tossed it aside like some YouTubers have, because the phone has become a buggy mess after two months of no updates, a new day to pencil in on your calendar has arrived. The big January update that Google promised for the Pixel 6 could show up Monday, January 17.

UPDATE: Google already posted the factory image and OTA files if you want to flash manually!
UPDATE 2: The over-the-air update is live! To grab it, head into Settings>System update>Check for updates.

I know, I know, you've heard this before. After a delay in December outside of all other Pixels, we were told the same only to be left disappointed in the last days of 2021, learning that December's update had been pulled and there wouldn't be a replacement for it until "late" January. Today, Canadian carrier Fido (via reddit) updated its OS upgrade schedule to suggest the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will get a new update on January 17. It specifically says this is the January update too, and again, was posted today. The page previously said that the update was "coming soon."

Should Monday roll around and bring us the goods, you should expect the update to be quite large and address a list of bugs too big for a single post. In fact, the December update was going to address almost 100 issues with Android 12, while the January update is supposed to take care of at least another 10. We'll be on the lookout first thing Monday morning. We should have factory image and OTA files for those willing to flash the new builds, plus an over-the-air update shouldn't be far behind them.

Want an Android Tablet? Upcoming Galaxy Tab S8 Lineup Only Legit Option

Tim — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 09:22:22 +0000

The Android tablet market is pretty barren, with only a small number of manufacturers paying any real attention and releasing decent devices worth our time talking about. Samsung is one of those manufacturers. Coming soon, Android tablet shoppers will have a whole new lineup of Galaxy Tab devices to choose from, consisting of the Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, and Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra. Having gone over the specs, thanks to a big time device render and information leak courtesy of WinFuture, it looks like the Galaxy Tab S8 lineup is not here to play games. These things are packed with the goods. Let's talk Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra first. This device is reported to feature a monstrous 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate (2960 x 1848), Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, 8GB/128GB and 16GB/512GB RAM and storage configurations, microSD support, S Pen support, 11,200mAh battery, solid rear-facing cameras, Fast Charging, wireless DeX, and Android 12 (One UI 4.0).

Pricing is unknown for such a beast of an Android tablet, but you can safely expect it to be on the very expensive side. Then there's the Galaxy Tab S8 and S8+. Neither of these sound all that bad either. The smaller S8 tablet features a 11-inch LTPS TFT display with 120Hz refresh rate (2560 x 1600), the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, 8GB RAM and two storage options (128GB or 256GB), S Pen support, 8,000mAh battery, and the same Android 12 software. The Galaxy Tab S8+ is nearly the same, but larger. It's display comes in at 12.7 inches and features a Super AMOLED, and yes, it's 120Hz. Other general specs include a SD8 Gen 1 chipset, as well as the same RAM and storage options as the smaller S8, but you do get a larger 10,090mAh battery. We will most certainly keep you updated on pricing and availability info for these devices, but as for launch, expect them around MWC time, this year being late February. Samsung typically does things on its own beforehand, so we're likely getting pretty close. // WinFuture (German)

Android 13 To Get Refreshed Wallpaper Color Themes To Pick From

Kellen — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 08:48:47 +0000

One of the standout features introduced as a part of Android 12 is without a doubt the wallpaper-based themes it pushes, especially for those of us into personalization. While a set of colors that flood your system based on your wallpaper doesn't necessarily change the way your phone works, it really adds a nice touch of customization to your phone, making it very much yours and not whatever a Google or Samsung engineer decided. For Android 13, Google is apparently working to refresh that system some with the introduction of four new styles. The new styles are being referred to as TONAL_SPOT, VIBRANT, EXPRESSIVE, and SPRITZ, according to Android Police, and will offer very different vibes. In that order, they are being described as a theme similar to the current wallpaper theming you know from Android 12 to one with a change in accents to one that might get wilder in colors to a more muted, even desaturated look. I'm all for their being bigger differences between each theme, as the current Android 12 setup offers only subtle, all-very-vibrant takes, depending on your wallpaper.

The above image is from a Pixel 6 Pro running Android 12 is in only an example of the current wallpaper-based theming we have. For Android 13, we don't know if Google is changing that settings page or not, where you pick a theme, but it should look similar. Android 13's first developer preview could be here within a month or so if you can believe that.

Verizon Galaxy Note 10 Lineup Receives Android 12 Update

Tim — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 13:48:18 +0000

Verizon is pushing out the Android 12 (One UI 4.0) update to the Galaxy Note 10 family, continuing Samsung's dominance of updating its huge range of devices ahead of most other OEMs. It's not even fair at this point, as Samsung is literally cranking these things out one after the other. Inside, owners can look forward to Android 12's color themes, privacy enhancements, Samsung's updated keyboard, camera changes, and plenty else.

Updated Build Numbers

Galaxy Note 10: N970USQU7GULD
Galaxy Note 10+: N975USQU7GULD
Galaxy Note 10+ 5G: N976VVRU7GULD

Go snag it! // Verizon [2] [3]

Motorola MA1 Wireless Android Auto Dongle Goes Up for Pre-Order, Ships Soon

Kellen — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 12:17:14 +0000

The Motorola-branded dongle that was introduced a week ago at CES, which gives your car wireless Android Auto and that had a lot of you pretty excited, is now up for pre-order at Amazon. Time to get those orders in if a wireless Android Auto experience is exactly what you need to make your car the best. The Motorola MA1 is the official name, by the way, and no, Motorola did not actually make this. This is one of those situations where a random electronics maker is licensing the brand name because people know the name Motorola. They have no idea who Meizhou Guo Wei Electronics Co. is. The same thing happened a couple of years back with the re-launched Moto 360 line. Anyways, the MA1 is a USB adapter that plugs into your car's Android Auto port to then give your car wireless Android Auto. So your car will already need Android Auto, if that wasn't clear, as this takes the current wired experience and makes it wireless. If your car doesn't already have Android Auto, please do not buy this. Once plugged in, you initially pair your device to the MA1 with Bluetooth. It then also uses a 5GHz WiFi connection to transmit media and such. It actually sounds like a neat little product. The MA1 costs $89.95 and Amazon says it will ship on January 28. Amazon Pre-Order Link

NVIDIA GeForce NOW Streams Fortnite to Android Via Closed Beta

Tim — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 09:08:43 +0000

NVIDIA announced this week that GeForce NOW members and those still playing Fortnite can begin streaming the Epic Games title starting next week, all thanks to a closed beta designed to test the service's server capacity, graphics delivery, and new touch controls performance. As for these "new touch controls," NVIDIA's team apparently worked pretty hard on these. For mobile users, they should be legit. Here's what NVIDIA detailed about them.

Alongside the amazing team at Epic Games, we’ve been working to enable a touch-friendly version of Fortnite for mobile delivered through the cloud. While PC games in the GeForce NOW library are best experienced on mobile with a gamepad, the introduction of touch controls built by the GeForce NOW team offers more options for players, starting with Fortnite.

If you'd like to get in on this closed beta, follow the link below, sign into your account, and register. It should be pretty easy. We also hope the capacity isn't too limited and those that want to play will be able to get in. I've been debating whether or not to try getting back into Fortnite, but yeah, I don't think I'd be able to keep up with the little kids on there that can build a mansion in 3 seconds and then 360 no-scope my old ass. Thanks, but no thanks.

Join Waitlist Here

// NVIDIA

Google's Pixel Foldable Might Have a Better Design Than Samsung's Fold

Kellen — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 08:54:09 +0000

The Galaxy Z Fold 3 might be the king of foldables, but that doesn't mean it is a perfect device. Not only is the Fold 3 ridiculously heavy and awkward to use when you leave the couch, it's inner main display is a weird shape, as is its outer cover display. Should Google attempt to compete with the Fold 3 here in the near future (rumors suggest it will), we just assumed that a Pixel foldable would be a lot like Samsung's. New evidence now suggests a Pixel that folds could go a slightly different, more preferred route. Buried within the latest Android 12L beta 2 build, an animation was discovered from a portion of a device setup process where you would be asked to insert your SIM card. The animation that 9to5Google found shows a foldable device and has apparently been marked as "Pipit" within the code, which you may already know as the codename for Google's Pixel foldable.

While these animations can often depict devices in shapes and sizes that don't reflect reality, this one seems purposely setup in a way to highlight an actual device. For example, the animation shows precisely where the SIM card of this device would go in both folded and unfolded states. You may notice it only shows a volume rocker on its side, almost as a hint that Google might use a different setup for the power button than it has in the past. But really, what we care about here is the shape, assuming it's showcasing the device's real design. The cover looks like it has a wider ratio, more like a traditional smartphone would instead of the ultra-skinny design of Samsung's Fold 3. Because the cover is wider, that leads to a wider inside, at least as far as aspect ratio goes. You get a square-like experience on the inside, almost like a 1:1. The best example of what this Pixel foldable could look like is the recently announced OPPO Find N, a foldable not coming to the US, but one that really caught our eye. You can see it below looking almost identical to design of the Pixel above.

Not that I'm a huge fan of foldables any longer, but this is all good news, folks. The OPPO Find N might be the first foldable to get it right in this form factor and should Google follow that lead, I'd be down to take it for a spin.

Verizon Galaxy Note 20 Line, Galaxy S21 FE Scoop January Security Patch

Tim — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 11:35:42 +0000

Verizon is now shipping out the January security patch to select Samsung devices. This week, it's the Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, and the new Galaxy S21 FE. Below you can view the new software build numbers, important if you're wanting to verify that you're on the latest software.

Updated Build Numbers

Galaxy S21 FE: G990USQU2BUL7
Note 20: N981USQS2EULH
Note 20 Ultra: N986USQS2EULH

Changelogs show nothing additional for the Note devices, but the S21 FE does have a few bug fixes on top of the security patch. Verizon specifically mentions certain app notification vibrations have been fixed, improvements for smart view connections, and a couple more minor things. Have at it! // Verizon [2] [3]

Android 12L Beta 2 Arrives for Pixel Devices to Test

Kellen — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 10:10:01 +0000

A fresh Android 12L beta build just dropped for supported Pixel phones, if anyone is up for some testing today. The Pixel 3a, Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a all got new builds for Android 12L Beta 2 that can be installed. Builds for the Pixel 6 line are still marked as coming soon. Google hasn't given us a list of changes, so this one is a bit of a mystery. Since Android 12L is designed for tablets, flashing this to your phone likely won't do much. We'll still give it a run anyway and report back if we find anything fun.

Install Android 12L Beta 2

Release date: January 12, 2022 Build: S2B2.211203.006 Emulator support: x86 (64-bit), ARM (v8-A) Security patch level: January 2022

The Android Beta program for 12L is still not open, so if you want to play with the latest, you'll have to manually flash. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go.

Downloads: Factory image | OTA

Even MKBHD Says He's Done With the Pixel 6 Pro

Tim — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 09:00:21 +0000

The Pixel 6 lineup is in a tough spot. Currently, the majority of owners are waiting on the December and January patch that should also bring with it the Feature Drop that was supposed to arrive last month. As we now know, there was a bug in that update, so Google postponed it for later this month. Meanwhile, continuous buggy behavior on the devices is leading many to take to social media, raising concerns about various issues associated with both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Due to this, in what could be a major blow to Google's flagship models, YouTuber MKBHD has announced that he will no longer recommend the Pixel 6 Pro to his viewers. This is very noteworthy, as MKBHD has always been a vocal advocate for Google's smartphone business. However, in the tweet which was sent Tuesday evening, he states that his Pixel 6 Pro has, "gotten so buggy" that he can no longer recommend it at its retail price of $900. MKBHD also points to December's missing update as a reason that the Pixel 6 Pro has been a "bad experience." https://twitter.com/MKBHD/status/1481108783996751874 Why is this bad for Google? Well, the tweet has gained nearly 40,000 likes. Typically, you don't want this much bad press associated with your device. If anyone was on the fence as to whether or not to buy this phone, this single tweet from a prominent individual in the tech space could easily sway their decision. We assume most Pixel 6 Pro owners don't have a fallback Galaxy S21 Ultra device to use like MKBHD, so while owners are patiently waiting, we can at least take comfort in knowing that an update is indeed coming and it should address quite a few of the issues people are having. Hang in there, Pixel 6 fans.

Entire NVIDIA SHIELD TV Lineup Gets Experience Upgrade 9.0 (Android 11)

Tim — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 08:12:07 +0000

We like to semi-seriously joke around that Samsung is the king of Android updates. When it comes to phones, sure, that's mostly agreeable. When it comes to Android TV-powered set-top boxes? It's not even close, with NVIDIA continuously churning out updates for its devices. With today's news, it marks the 27th(!) upgrade for the SHIELD TV. It's pretty gosh darn impressive if you ask us. With praises out of the way, NVIDIA is pushing out the Experience Upgrade 9.0 to all of its SHIELD TV models, including the original 2015 units. Upgrade 9.0 is code for Android 11, bringing with it the improved Gboard experience, additional permission controls, as well as support for aptX-compatible headphones. You can expect to see this update hit your box here shortly. To celebrate, Google is also getting in on the action, offering new, US-based SHIELD TV owners six months of Peacock Premium at no additional cost. This means you can binge on Yellowstone, The Office, or even some Parks and Rec! To redeem this offer, new SHIELD TV owners must, "set up a new Google account or log into a preexisting one, subscribe through the Peacock Premium banner on the For You or Apps tab, and provide a valid form of payment." This is all great news. // NVIDIA

OnePlus Buds Pro Get Dual Connection in Latest Update

Tim — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 11:07:57 +0000

OnePlus is slowly beginning to push out an update to OnePlus Buds Pro owners, bringing with it a highly requested feature: Dual Connection. This feature allows for simultaneous connections, enabling the ability to quickly switch between audio sources. It's very handy. OnePlus details exactly how to get up and running with Dual Connection following the update.

Enable the "Dual Connection" feature within the Headphone settings (go to Bluetooth Settings, press the cogwheel in front of OnePlus Pro and select Headphones) after pairing the Buds Pro with two Bluetooth devices. You can now seamless switch occurs when music is played from either one of two devices. You can also use the HeyMelody app to enable this feature in non-OnePlus devices.

OnePlus stresses that it's incrementally rolling the update out to a small percentage of earbuds to begin with, so if you don't see it right away, remain calm. You'll see it eventually. // OnePlus

Google Play System Updates Now Less of a Mystery

Kellen — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 10:03:22 +0000

During most months, your Android device will receive a Google Play system update that Google has used for a few years to squash bugs or take care of critical security issues involving the Google Play Store, Google Play services, and Android. This way of pushing updates to a phone or tablet or Wear OS watch is a pretty remarkable addition to Android, because it allows Google to take care of issues without the need for a manufacturer to push a full system-level update. However, knowing what Google has included in these updates has always been a mystery. At the end of 2021, it appears Google started to tell us everything that is a part of these Google Play system updates and may continue to inform us going forward. A new Google support page is listing what's new in Google System Updates and it kicked things off with the December 2021 update followed by the January 2022 update. The most recent update fixed a critical issue involving "device connectivity, safety & emergency, system management & diagnostics and media related services." It also brought new discovery features to Google Play, optimizations to allow for faster and more reliable downloads, added new features to Play Pass and Play Points, improved Play Protect, and fixed other Play Store bugs. On a system level, it updated the timezone management system services that should improve device connectivity, network usage, etc.

January 2022
Critical Fixes

[Tablet, Wear OS, Phone] Bug fixes for device connectivity, safety & emergency, system management & diagnostics and media related services.

Google Play Store

Play-as-you-download feature to let gamers start playing mobile games while the app download continues to reduce waiting times.

New Features to help you discover the Apps & Games you love.

Optimizations allowing faster and more reliable download and installation.

New features to the Play Pass and Play Points programs.

Enhancements to Google Play Billing.

Continuous improvements to Play Protect to keep your device safe.

Various performance optimizations, bug fixes and improvements to security, stability and accessibility.

System Management

With updates to the timezone management system, added support for new daylight savings time transition changes in various countries.

Updates to system management services that improve device connectivity, network usage, stability, security and updatability.

With each month's update, Google is providing specifics on availability as well. For example, a number of fixes are directly related to the Google Play system update for January (the critical and system management updates), while the Google Play Store changes arrive with an update to v28.7 of the Play Store. To check for Google Play system updates on your phone, head into Settings>About> and look for your device's software information. It should tell you the month of your current update. You used to be able to tap it to force it to check for an update, but Google may have killed that with Android 12. To check for updates to the Google Play Store, head into the Store, tap your profile (top right), then Settings>About and tap "Update Play Store." // 9to5Google

Galaxy S21 FE Now Available for $699, Comes With Free Galaxy Buds Live

Tim — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 08:51:09 +0000

Samsung's latest, the Galaxy S21 FE, is now available for purchase. For those looking to score this device, we'd recommend going through Samsung's website, as we always do, because the company is offering up to $560 in trade-in values, as well as a free pair of Galaxy Buds Live earbuds (aka Galaxy Beans). For $699, the Galaxy S21 FE comes with a 6.4-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 888 processor, base of 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, 4,500mAh battery with 25W wired charging, Wireless PowerShare, a triple rear camera setup, 5G connectivity (Sub-6 + mmWave), stereo speakers, IP68, and it's the first Samsung smartphone to run Android 12 (one UI 4.0) out of the box. To make the phone an even more attractive offer, Samsung is also offering $100 of store credit to get other goodies along with the device, or if you want to upgrade those Galaxy Buds Live earbuds to Galaxy Buds Pro, Samsung will let you do so for only $30. That's a really good offer. The initial feedback we're seeing from readers is that this phone has launched a bit too late, since the next line of Galaxy S22 devices is shortly inbound. That's a fair point, but more importantly, this phone can at least take the S20 FE's place on retail shelves, ensuring buyers aren't having to buy an older device with no other mid-tier options. The phone is in a funky spot price and timing wise, but still, it's better to have it than not. If you'd like to snag one, follow the link below. We'll try to get our hands on one for review, but no promises.

Samsung Link

OnePlus 10 Pro Launches in China While We're Left to Wait

Kellen — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 23:00:56 +0000

The OnePlus 10 Pro is now launch-ready and super official in China. This next-gen flagship phone will launch in North America at some point later in 2022, we just don't know when exactly yet. Still, we can at least talk about the full specs now. This new OnePlus 10 Pro phone will feature a 6.7" QHD AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 2nd generation LTPO tech, Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, up to 12GB RAM and 256GB UFS3.1 storage, 5000mAh battery with 80W fast wired charging and 50W wireless charging, and a triple rear camera system. The camera includes 48MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, and 8MP telephoto shooters, as well as a Hasselblad 2.0 shooting experience. Owners will find 150-degree field of view and fisheye modes, even more "Pro" level controls, and various levels of RAW capture. We've talked about this already. In the design department, the phone should remind you of both the OnePlus 9 Pro and the Galaxy S21 Ultra. The soft curves are very OnePlus-esque, while that camera blending into the frame is straight out of Samsung's design language. OnePlus says they worked hard to center a lot of the weight in the body too, giving it even better balance. The 10 Pro weighs 200.5g and measures in at 163.0 x 73.9 x 8.55mm. For software, this Chinese version of the phone runs ColorOS on top of Android 12. Versions outside of China will run OxygenOS. The OnePlus 10 Pro hits China stores on January 13 and comes in Volcanic Black and Emerald Forest. Again, it'll come to the US, we just don't know when.

Next-Gen Motorola Razr 3 Already Sounds Better Than First Two Attempts

Tim — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 13:14:01 +0000

More details concerning the upcoming next-gen Motorola Razr 3 have hit the web, thanks to a source belonging to XDA. According to this source, looking forward to this Razr 3 may not be the worst thing to do if a foldable phone toots your horn, as it's disclosed that finally, Motorola is going to pump some high-end specs into these things. As detailed, the Razr 3 is expected to ship with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, a big time upgrade over the 7 series chipsets that have been included in the past. The last $1K+ foldable Motorola shipped came with a Snapdragon 765G, which is hardly inspiring at that price. On top of a next-gen chip for a next-gen phone, we can potentially look forward to an HD AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, as well as three storage/RAM configurations: 6GB, 8GB, 12GB of RAM and 128GB, 256GB, 512GB of storage. Options are good and this should also help Motorola stretch out the pricing a bit, if that's actually the goal. The phone is also reported to include UWB, which would allow the phone to take advantage of new positioning tech. UWB is the foundation for things like digital car keys, something Google and carmakers like BMW have been hyping. There's still a lot we don't know. Has the hardware been vastly improved? It better have an IP rating if it wants to compete with the Galaxy Z Flip 3. And what about the camera situation? Will that be any good? From our perspective, it'll take quite the device to get folks away from Samsung's foldable lineup. Let's see what you got, Moto. // XDA

Google Goes After Apple Over iMessage, Green Bubbles, and "Bullying"

Kellen — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 12:16:34 +0000

During Apple's very public battle with Epic over the App Store and Fortnite, we learned a lot about the history of iMessage and how Apple's executives were at one point split over whether or not to bring it to Android. The side that wanted to keep the messaging service as an Apple exclusive won the battle, leading us to a place where iMessage very much has a tight grip on iPhone users who have a fear of switching to an Android phone and becoming a "green bubble" in conversations with friends. In a piece written by the Wall Street Journal over the weekend, several stories of iMessage being used to create tension between friends or in dating situations were shared. The stories, which focused mostly on teens and the shaming that can happen if one of their friends owns an Android phone and brings a green bubble to their conversation, aren't new. We've heard all of this before. It has been well documented that the younger population isn't fond of an Android user in their messaging space. For those not familiar, all you really need to know is that when an iPhone user messages another iPhone user through iMessage (or "Messages"), they are basically sending an advanced chat, with the option to react to messages or send special emoji, have a more robust group experience with typing indicators, etc. If an Android user enters, they are entering through the ancient SMS or MMS protocols, where all of those advanced features don't exist. So not only is their experience lessened by not being able to see the fun stuff their friends are incorporating into a group chat, information could also be missed. And of course, their bubble turns to green instead of the standard blue, highlighting their lesser experience. Where this story took a turn this time around was when Google's Hiroshi Lockheimer was quoted and then followed-up by commenting publicly on Twitter. The Android Twitter account also shared some thoughts. In the article, Lockheimer, the SVP of Android and several other divisions at Google, talked about how this green bubble non-sense doesn't really have to exist. He mentioned that there are industry-wide solutions available to let everyone connect "without artificial limits." He took that a step further on Twitter by calling out Apple's "lock-in" of users with iMessage and that "a company that has humanity and equity as a core part of its marketing" shouldn't be "using peer pressure and bullying as a way to sell products." https://twitter.com/lockheimer/status/1479865157753147395 The Android account quote-Tweeted Lockheimer with a similar message that straight-up said, "iMessage should not benefit from bullying" and that everyone can "fix this as one industry." The fix they are referring to is likely RCS or Rich Communication Services, the messaging standard adopted by the entire mobile industry, who has spent years implementing the tech in messaging apps to give everyone a more robust experience. Google introduced RCS into its Messages app and have since brought on all of the major US carriers in support. Apple, at least as of today, hasn't shown any interest in adding RCS to iMessage. They are very aware of what they have going and how a messaging app like iMessage could keep users around for years because of a fear of missing out. Should they come around, I'd imagine Google would be more than open to helping them implement the global standard. It also wouldn't be terrible to see Apple finally bring iMessage to Android to rid the world of bubbles and the stories described above.

UPDATE: Yep, Hiroshi Lockheimer is simply asking that Apple implement RCS and has offered once again to help make it happen.

https://twitter.com/lockheimer/status/1480663650775883777

Samsung Galaxy S22 Gets a Launch Date for Early February

Kellen — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 09:34:21 +0000

It wouldn't be a proper year in tech without Samsung hosting a Q1 Unpacked event to show off its next Galaxy S line. Even though the company just announced the Galaxy S21 FE for some reason, the Galaxy S22 family is close and a much bigger deal. According to a report out of Korea, we're looking at early next month for its big reveal. A story from Digital Daily says that Samsung has confirmed the Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, and Galaxy S22 Ultra will be announced at an Unpacked event on February 8. From there, the phones will go up for pre-order the following day before hitting stores on February 24. If you are wondering about timing and how this matches up to the Galaxy S21 launch, well, it's later. The S21 series launched in January of last year. However, the Galaxy S20 line launched on February 11 the year before, so this is very much in line. We've covered numerous leaks for the Galaxy S22 family already and can't wait for all of these phones to release. We'd much rather play with Samsung's new phones than speculate for months about what they'll be like. We know the S22 and S22+ will be a lot like last year's phones and that the S22 Ultra is essentially a phone designed to bring back the Note line. Now give them to us. Mark February 8 on those calendars.

10 Most Important Android Phones to Date

Tim — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 13:42:14 +0000

We're in a reminiscing mood and on a recent podcast, we brought up the Galaxy Nexus for some odd reason. While speaking about the phone, I mentioned it would be a top 10 Android phone of all time, which then lead me to think what other phones might be on such a list. We've decided to answer that question with the following...

10 Most Important Android Phones of All Time

Below you'll find a list of 10 devices, ranked in the order of importance. By important, we mean what the devices meant to the overall Android ecosystem at the time of their release. Clearly, some phones have been more important than others, not just for Android as a whole, but for the manufacturer as well. We have detailed reasonings and arguments for each phone's ranking below, but we'd love to hear if you have differing opinions. Did we miss a more important device entirely? Let's do this!

Photo taken by Akela NDE

10. HTC Dream aka G1

Where would we all be without the HTC Dream aka G1 smartphone? Personally, I never used the phone, but I do recognize the phone's importance for being the first publicly available Android device. I remember seeing someone use the device back in the day and I was asking about it. It looked futuristic at the time and I think what intrigued me most was that it wasn't an iPhone. Looking back, I'm sure the software was rather limited and the camera probably didn't produce the best photos, but hey, the G1 will go down the in history books as a very important Android device.

9. LG G2 (2013)

In our eyes, the G2 established LG as an Android phonemaker to be excited about. This was one year before LG gave us the world's first QHD display in the G3, but still, this excerpt from Kellen's G2 review paints the G2 picture that we'll all remember. As he said back in 2013, "The screen is as good as it gets, the processor is the most powerful on the planet, and the camera includes the next movement in mobile photography. When you think about the ultimate specs list, LG checked all the boxes with the G2." The G2 built a loyal following for LG, one that ultimately didn't survive several missteps from the company, but LG can look back on both the G2 and G3 and be quite proud of what was accomplished. And seriously, we miss that rear-facing volume rocker and power button all of the time. So unique and so good!

8. Galaxy S6 (2015)

It's with the Galaxy S6 that we mark as the pivotal release for essentially all of the modern Android hardware we have today. It's the Galaxy S6 that showed us the glass-filled future we live in today, and honestly, it was a really good smartphone for the time. Coming from the Galaxy S5, arguably one of the worst phones Samsung has ever released, the Galaxy S6 was a night and day difference, with a premium look and feel that you just didn't see from hardly any other manufacturer. Samsung continues this trend with its latest devices, and as we all now know, basically all Android device makers want to copy what Samsung has done. That tends to happen when you sell millions more units than your competitors, so really it's a compliment to what Samsung has accomplished.

7. HTC One M7 (2013)

The One (M7) marked the pinnacle for HTC. Many in the tech community felt that it was the best looking Android phone ever created, and while no one is obligated to feel the same way, the phone did offer more than good looks. It gave us incredibly good speakers that set the tone for all of its competitors, plus HTC was still going in a good direction with its Sense UI. Sadly, the One (M7) can also be marked as the beginning of the end for HTC. While the sequel M8 was also a fine phone, HTC never did quite hit a home run again like they did with the M7. In fact, things got really low in 2018. Long live BoomSound.

6. Pixel 2 XL (2017)

Ah, the 🐧 (or 🐼) phone. We debated shortly as to whether put the Pixel One or Pixel 2 XL in this position, ultimately deciding that the Pixel 2 XL will likely go down as the most popular of all the Pixel smartphones. There was something about it, a nearly perfect smartphone (review here). At launch, the Pixel 2 XL brought its own set of drama, but that's par for the course when it comes to Google hardware. At the end of the day, the results spoke for themselves. Pixel 2 XL solidified Google's position as a good phone maker and a leader in mobile photography. Google Pixel releases remain one of the most anticipated launches year after year.

5. Galaxy Nexus (2011)

Thanks to a decent hype campaign, we can't recall a Nexus device being more anticipated than the Galaxy Nexus. It came at a time when the entire world, not just the tech industry, was rocked by the death of Steve Jobs. The actual Galaxy Nexus launch event was pushed back in respect for his passing, so when we think Galaxy Nexus, we can't help but think of Jobs. The phone itself was not that great in several categories, but if we had to point to one main issue, it was the battery. In fact, it was so bad that Google ended up removing LTE connectivity for its followup device, the Nexus 4. However, the phone did introduce the world to Google Now, which has been replaced on Pixel phones today by the news-heavy Discover. And no one can deny that the Phase Beam live wallpaper isn't an absolute icon.

4. HTC DROID Incredible (2010)

While many had the original Motorola DROID as their first Android phone, others had the DROID Incredible from HTC. I recall there being battles between the factions as to which phone was better, but looking back, there was no wrong answer. Both phones are great and got most of into this crazy world. For HTC, whose history dates back to the very start of Android, the DROID Incredible is an incredibly important device. It birthed a long list of follow-up devices, eventually leading us to the release of the HTC One (M7) in 2013. Most importantly, though, it got many people into the world of Android and that's what makes it incredibly special in the eyes of many.

3. Galaxy Note 2 (2012, Tie)

The original version of this list did not include the Galaxy Note 2 (review here). When compiling the list, both Kellen and I completely forgot about the Galaxy Note line, mainly because Samsung appears to have abandoned it, at least for the time being. You can definitely slap us on the wrist for not including this device originally. So, why has it been added if it was overlooked in the first place? Well, as one argument pointed out, it could be the Galaxy Note that we have to thank for the current landscape of devices. You see, before the Galaxy Note, there weren't many oversized phones on the market. Once Samsung started selling a ton of these, we saw phones get bigger and bigger as years went on, so if anything, it's an important device merely because it seems to have begun the trend of OEMs making bigger phones. And why the Note 2 and not the original Note? Because Galaxy Note 2 was a great phone. The camera was great, the battery life was awesome, gaming was smooth, and that 5.5-inch AMOLED display was clean AF. It was a good phone, and at least for me, began a long lasting love for the Galaxy Note line.

3. OnePlus One (2014)

OnePlus One (review) was released at a time when we began to see smartphone prices going up and up. It was launched as a "flagship killer," offering specs and a software experience that could rival anything on the market, but kept an incredibly affordable price of just $299. At the time, that seemed insane. OnePlus also introduced sandstone backsides with this phone and we can't tell you how much that texture is missed in our pocket. These days, OnePlus sells its smartphones with the same pricing scheme as Apple and Samsung (aka super f'ing expensive). It was bound to happen and it's pretty clear that the company has completely lost its underdog sense of competition which made it so special years back. Looking back, the OnePlus One will be a constant reminder that it is possible to deliver an exceptional device at a price that can undercut everybody and capture a buying public's imagination and sense of wonder. Shoutout to Cyanogen, too!

2. Moto X (2013)

The only phone to ever win a back-to-back POTY (phone of the year) award, the Moto X first arrived in 2013. It had some great competition that year, too. There was the HTC One (M7), Nexus 5, as well as the Galaxy S4 (Google Play Edition). Still, the phone's hardware customization options were too special to overlook and the software features that Motorola introduced were game changing. Active Display, anybody? I'd like to share Kellen's reasoning for why this phone ranked so highly for us in 2013. It's a fun throwback, but also depresses me now knowing the fate of Motorola as a whole.

The Moto X tops this list for many reasons, but there are two in particular that make it stand out to me: choice and Active Display. With the Moto X, you have a choice in how it looks, how much storage it has, which carrier it works on, and if it’s a developer edition. You can’t say that for any other phone on the planet. The Moto X that sits on my desk today has a one-of-a-kind Bamboo back and works on Verizon because that’s the carrier I wanted it on. But I could have gone green with yellow accents, chosen T-Mobile, and unlocked the bootloader to tinker to my heart’s desire. No matter what, the customization of phones is a ground-breaking idea that Motorola brought to life. I just hope they have seen enough success with it to keep it going.

It's unlikely we'll ever see an Android phone as awesome as the Moto X again.

1. RED Hydrogen One (2018)

Haha, just kidding! We like to have fun around here.

1. Motorola DROID (2009)

We promise we're not trying to play favorites, but the Motorola DROID takes the cake as the most important Android phone of all time. Obviously, this phone inspired the creation of this very site, but beyond that, it inspired thousands upon thousands of people to learn more about Android and to get into tech as a hobby or career. The phone's history is well documented and that's because it's known how important it has been to this industry. The phone brought Android to the masses and saved Motorola's phone business. It's pretty incredible. For the Android enthusiasts here, it's easy to point to the amazing community of developers and tinkerers we had back in those days which led to so many wonderful experiences with this phone. Every day there was a new custom ROM or theme to flash, allowing the phone to effortlessly evolve and shape into whatever the user imagined. It was special times, people. It was the true iPhone Killer in our eyes.

What do you think? Did we miss one? Are we blinded by our OG DROID love that we missed the true #1? Feel free to argue with us down in the comments.

Verizon Galaxy S20 Family Gets Android 12 (One UI 4.0)!

Tim — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 10:15:44 +0000

Holy moly, Samsung! Verizon variants of the entire Galaxy S20 family, including the Galaxy S20 FE, is getting the Android 12 (One UI 4.0) update today. These four devices join many other Samsung phones getting the Android 12 goodness in the past couple of weeks. Inside the update, you'll find Android 12 and all of its goodies, such as color themes and the privacy enhancements, as well as the December security patch.

Updated Build Numbers

Galaxy S20: G981VSQU2EULH
S20+: G986USQU2EULH
S20 Ultra: G988USQU2EULH
S20 FE: G781VSQU5EULH

Happy Friday, y'all! // Verizon [2] [3] [4]

OnePlus 10 Pro's Hasselblad 2.0 Camera Shows Off Its Features

Kellen — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 09:15:03 +0000

The OnePlus 10 Pro's launch is days away and the remaining mysteries are becoming fewer. To finish off the week, OnePlus has revealed more details on its camera, which we might as well call Hasselblad 2.0, because yes, this partnership is still going strong. We already know that the camera is made up of 48MP, 50MP, and 8MP lenses and that we have "Dual OIS" and a 32MP selfie camera. OnePlus shared a few more details of this story, though they still aren't giving it all to us. Here's what we've learned. The OnePlus 10 Pro will feature a 2nd generation Hasselblad Pro Mode that can shoot RAW+. All three rear cameras can use this mode, by the way. It captures in 12-bit RAW and uses Hasselblad Natural Color Solution, plus it shoots in full 10-bit color to "deliver a more natural and delicate display of color in every photo." We're also getting an ultra-wide camera with a 150-degree field of view and a fisheye mode. It can also shoot in 110-degree FOV to look a little more traditional. For film buffs, OnePlus is debuting ISO, shutter speed, and other adjustments during video capture. You can film in LOG as well. It's Log, it's log, it's better than bad it's good. OK, that's it. Again, they are trolling these features out and giving us less than we want. The phone launches next week, though, so we don't have much longer to go.

Here is Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband Speed Promise

Kellen — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 12:46:15 +0000

Verizon is getting hyped to launch 5G for the 6th or 7th time in recent years, only this time it might bring you an upgraded experience. Examples from the previous launches include a non-standard home 5G experience, mmWave in a couple of neighborhoods that you'll never find, and a nationwide "5G" that likely brought you a logo change from 4G without a change in speed. Verizon's 5G rollout dates back to 2018 and there's a good chance you still don't have any of the 5G promise given back then. But hey, this month could be the month. Verizon is planning to fire up its C-Band spectrum and deliver a reasonable increase in speeds both on the download and upload sides of things. Assuming the FAA gives them a greenlight in a couple of weeks, Verizon expects to give 100 million people in 1,700 cities access to their shiny new network with speeds "10x faster than 4G LTE." What does "10x faster than 4G LTE" mean? It means typical download speeds between 90-170Mbps and upload speeds of 15-30Mbps. You could see peaks on those that hit 1Gbps or 100Mbps, but those are just peaks. Verizon noted the specifics on speeds in an announcement post earlier this week, which I'd like to give them props for. We tried to find T-Mobile and AT&T's official listing of typical speeds for their 5G and they are basically afraid to list it outside of whatever Ookla or OpenSignal have reported back to them in press release form. If you find it, please let us know. So, if you own a Verizon phone that can access their 5G Ultra Wideband (5GUW) network in the coming weeks, your expectation should not be 1Gbps download speeds at all times. Instead, you should expect something around 100Mbps. That's not bad, especially when you consider they rate their LTE network at between 5-12Mbps.

Instagram Previews Feed Changes, and Yup, Chronological Order is Back

Tim — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 08:58:48 +0000

Instagram took to... *checks notes* Twitter(?!) to showcase its upcoming changes for the Feed. After having previewed the changes myself via this video, we can confirm that chronological order is making its grand debut. Instagram is actually splitting the Feed into three options, two of which will support chronological order. There will be Home, Favorites, and Following. Home will be a mixture of recommended posts and posts from folks you follow, sure to be filled with ads and other nonsense you didn't sign up to see. Favorites is for your favorite accounts, like close family and friends. Then there is Following, which is for every account you follow. Instagram says it hopes to launch these changes soon. Take a look for yourself! We'll let you know as soon as it hits Android. It could be a while, though. https://twitter.com/mosseri/status/1478767105444966401

Pixel 3 Gets Surprise Update to Fix Emergency Call Bug

Kellen — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 12:49:25 +0000

The Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL were originally scheduled to be done receiving software support after their Android 12 update in October. Google promised us another update, though, one that would likely be a final bug fixer early in 2022 that we are still waiting for. Before we get there, Google has snuck out another update that fixes the "911 Bug" that was discovered last month. In yesterday's changelog for the January update, Google casually mentioned the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL as receiving a "Fix for issue preventing emergency calls in certain conditions while some third-party apps are installed," along with all of the other still-supported Pixel phones. They didn't provide any other info, but the factory image and OTA file pages have seen new files posted. The update is rolling out this week as build SP1A.210812.016.A2 for both phones. It's still very much the October Android patch and minor. To check for it if you are still rockin' with a Pixel 3, head into Settings>System>System update.

Verizon Renames Its Unlimited Plans for 5G, Adds More Hotspot Data

Kellen — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 12:07:15 +0000

Verizon is preparing to expand their 5G Ultra Wideband coverage in the coming weeks, which could lead to a situation where your phone will finally see faster 5G speeds and a "5G UW" or "5G UWB" logo. To help bring awareness to that fact after announcing that "100 million people in 1,700 cities" will have 5G Ultra Wideband later this month, Verizon is also rebranding its unlimited plans and giving folks more hotspot data to play with. The new plans all fittingly have "5G" at the starts of their names, so we now have 5G Start, 5G Play More, 5G Do More, and 5G Get More. These are the same plans they previously had only with new names. They used to be called Start Unlimited, Play More Unlimited, Do More Unlimited, and Get More Unlimited. See, they just dropped "Unlimited" and added "5G" to the start. And seriously, the plans basically haven't changed, as far as their details and features go either, outside of the hotspot stuff. We still have prices that start at $70/mo and go up to $80/mo and $90/mo for single lines. The Start plan has lots of limits and no permanent freebies, while the Play More and Do More plans remain the same with bumps in hotspot data from 15GB/mo to 25GB/mo. The biggest change is probably in the 5G Get More plan, where hotspot has gone up from 30GB/mo to 50GB/mo. Verizon is also suggesting this plan now has absolute unlimited premium network access with no slowing. Hopefully, they can truly deliver that. T-Mobile and AT&T added truly unlimited options last year.

Verizon is hoping to move on from their C-Band drama shortly to give everyone a better 5G experience. Once they do, you may want to look at one of these freshly named plans, assuming you'll be consuming lots of fast data. I made the switch not long ago because they offered so many freebies with it. Shop Verizon 5G Unlimited Plans

Moto-Branded $89 Dongle Outfits Your Car With Wireless Android Auto

Tim — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 11:47:46 +0000

Tucked away inside of Google's overview for Android Auto in 2022 is the Motorola MA1 wireless Android Auto dongle. Priced at $89, this Motorola-branded device plugs into your car's USB port, magically upgrading your non wireless head unit to one that supports wireless Android Auto. Fancy, right? So long as your existing head unit supports Android Auto, this little dongle provides the wireless connection from your phone to the head unit via a USB port. As the product page explains, setup is quite simple: Plug the MA1 adapter into your car's existing Android Auto-enabled USB port, pair your phone to the MA1 adapter using Bluetooth, then enjoy wireless Android Auto. It's almost too easy if you ask me. This little dongle will go on sale later this month.

Motorola Link

https://motorolasound.com/media/tilhy2iw/motorola-android-amazon-_-youtube-16-9.mp4

Google's 2022 Plans are to Connect It All, Including Android Phones and Windows PCs

Kellen — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 10:00:13 +0000

Google laid out its plans for a number of new features coming to its ecosystem of devices and operating systems this year, a lot of which is focused on connecting them all or making setup easier. Whether you have an Android phone and an Android TV or a Chrome OS devices and a Wear OS watch, there is a good chance they will start to talk to each other.

Quicker setup of all devices

One of the biggest items Google announced today involves Fast Pair, the quick-connect technology that Google pushed out to phones and headphones a couple of years ago. In the coming weeks and months, Fast Pair will work on more devices and throughout more operating systems. The idea here is that when you fire up your headphones in pairing mode, your TV will recognize and be like, "Hey, cool headphones, wanna pair?" just like it does on your phone. For Google TV and Android TV devices, you'll be able to Fast Pair headphones "in the coming months." For Matter-enabled smart home devices, Fast Pair will work to add them to your Google Home units "in the coming weeks." With your Chromebook, Fast Pair for headphones will also happen "in the coming weeks." And finally, setting up a Chromebook should happen even faster by using a paired Android phone.

Fast Pair to Windows PC

This gets its own section because it will be big once it happens. Google announced today that it will add Fast Pair functionality from Android phones to Windows PCs. This will help with Bluetooth accessory setup, sync text messages easier, and allow for better file sharing with Nearby Share. Google says they are working with Acer, HP, and Intel for this action to start. This is a coming "later this year" feature, so you'll just have to stay tuned for more details as we learn them.

Locking and unlocking with your Wear OS watch

This one might be my favorite - Google is going to let you unlock your Chromebook or Android phone or tablet with your paired Wear OS watch "in the coming months." This isn't one of those Smart Lock janky things either. My understanding is that this will work as a native unlock share between watch and other devices, similar to how the Apple Watch can unlock an iPhone. Also, in a bit of a refresher on previous news, Google says that using UWB technology in Samsung and Pixel phones (Pixel 6 Pro) will allow you to unlock and lock your fancy BMW vehicle "later this year."

More Chrome connections

For Chromebook and Chromecast fans, there's even more to look forward to. Here's a list of what else Google is working on for the coming weeks and months:

Bluetooth switching: Automatic switching of audio devices from Chromebook to Android and back. This could happen as a call comes in and you are watching a video on your Chromebook, but take the call through your phone. Your headphones will jump to whichever device you'd like to use.
Chrome OS messaging apps: Later this year, you will be able to respond to messaging and chat apps from your phone on your Chromebook without actually installing those apps on your Chromebook.
Phone Hub gets Camera Roll access: Google is going to add access to your phone's Camera Roll from a Chromebook's Phone Hub later this year, giving you easy photo and video sharing without needing your phone handy.
Chromecast built-in: Even more devices will get Chromecast built-in this year, including all Bose speakers and soundbars.
Spatial audio with your head: Depending on head movements, headsets that support spatial audio will soon automatically adjust to make you feel like the audio is fully surrounding you, as you move.

If you have surrounded yourself with Android phones, watches, and Chromebooks (soon Windows PCs too), your 2022 will be filled with new connections between them. Hope you are cool with that. // Google

Android Auto Gets Lyft Driver Integration, YouTube for Parked Vehicles

Tim — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Google announced a suite of new things for Android Auto and Android Automotive this week at CES. All of the following features will hit supported infotainment systems later this year.

What's New in Android Auto

This summer, Lyft is integrating its app directly into Android Auto for drivers. This integration will allow drivers to view and accept rides right from their car's infotainment system. That means no more secondary device, which should make for a much cleaner Lyft driving experience. Google says that with access to points of interest apps like MochiMochi, Fuelio, and Pezzi Bezzina, "you can explore more of the world, find and pay for all types of car services, and track your mileage and costs." For fans of the wireless Android Auto experience, but without a compatible head unit, in the coming weeks the new Motorola MA1 wireless adapter will allow for units to support wireless Android Auto. We'll be sure to get specific availability and pricing for that ASAP.

What's New in Android Automotive

For Android Automotive, Google details that starting this spring, users will be able to check on and adjust additional car settings simply by asking Google. For example, you'd be able to activate features like lane keeping assist or checking when you're due for your next service appointment.

Later this year, select Volvo vehicles will be the first to access video entertainment services like YouTube, so long as the car is in Park.

New apps will be supported in the coming weeks, too. Google says that users will be able to have navigation apps Sygic and Flitsmeister, charging apps ChargePoint and PlugShare, as well as parking apps such as SpotHero and ParkWhiz downloaded directly to their vehicles.

Additional New Things

Digital car key: Later this year, phones with Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology will allow you to unlock your car without taking your phone out at all, as well as securely and remotely share your digital car key to trusted friends and family.
Remote actions: This spring, Google's launching a new program with car manufacturers to support remote actions, allowing for direct integration with the Google Home ecosystem. With remote actions, you can utilize Google Assistant to warm up or cool down your car, lock and unlock it, and check on the status of things like your battery charge from the comfort of your home. These capabilities are coming first to select Volvo vehicles, with more to follow.

Lots to look forward to in the Android Auto and Android Automotive world! // Google

Google Realizes It Should Pull the Pixel 6 December Factory Images, Does So

Kellen — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 08:43:22 +0000

The December update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro didn't workout and we now know it has serious enough bugs that Google decided to put it on hold. Their plan is to fix its serious bugs and issue a big update later in January to those two phones, though their messaging around it probably could have been a bit more upfront or timely. Holiday breaks are important, but man. Anyways, even after letting us all know that Pixel 6 owners would have to wait until "late" January for their big December update, Google kept hosting the factory image and OTA files for the bug-filled build, leaving open the opportunity for anyone with 15 minutes of time to flash it. Today, they've gone ahead and removed all of the December files for both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. The newest builds you can currently find for either phone are from November. They probably should have done this weeks ago, but better late than never or something. If you'd like to see all of the bugs they plan to fix once the new update hits later this month, you can see the December list with almost 100 fixes here. The January update has its own set that you can find here. For those of you running December's update, how's it been? I've seen some suggest the update has been nothing but great while others certainly haven't enjoyed their time.

There's a New Skagen Smartwatch, Based on Fossil Gen 6

Tim — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 08:00:08 +0000

Skagen, no stranger to making great looking timepieces both analog and smart, announced the new Falster Gen 6 smartwatch this week. Based on Fossil's Gen 6 smartwatch and running Wear OS 2, the new Falster features all of the improvements that were introduced with the Gen 6, such as upgraded health and wellness features, as well as the big performance boosts that came with the Snapdragon 4100+ chipset. For specs, the Falster Gen 6 features a 1.28-inch touchscreen (326dpi), 41mm case, 3 ATM water resistance, WiFi, GPS, NFC, heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, and upgraded fast charging. For software, Fossil notes that the device is compatible with the inbound Wear OS 3 software upgrade, scheduled for later this year. As you can see in the above header image, Falster Gen 6 comes in a variety of hardware options, but all are priced at the same $295. Falster Gen 6 is now purchasable via Skagen's website.

Good Luck Getting the Fossil x Razer Gen 6 Smartwatch

Tim — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 08:00:03 +0000

Fossil and Razer announced their first collab this week during CES, in the form of a very limited edition Gen 6 smartwatch powered by Wear OS. How limited? Well, it's Razer, so of course it's limited to just 1,337 pieces worldwide. That makes your chances of snagging one pretty slim, but hey, it's worth a shot.

To help make this particular Gen 6 feel like a real piece of the Razer gaming tech, Fossil has outfitted the device with special watch faces, including one that celebrates Razer's Chroma LED tech, as well as specially branded straps. Beyond those things, it's a Gen 6 smartwatch powered by a Snapdragon Wear 4100+ chip, increased charging speeds, upgraded health and wellness sensors, plus plenty more.

And before you ask, no, it doesn't have Wear OS 3. It is supported, though, so once that update is available this watch will be able to run it. We have a full Gen 6 hands-on and setup video if you'd like to see.

As for pricing and availability, the watch will cost $329 and be available on Fossil and Razer's web stores beginning January 10. You'll also find it at select retail stores, but we don't have specifics. Again, there are only 1,337 units, so don't be disappointed if you can't cop.

Here are Most of the OnePlus 10 Pro Specs

Kellen — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 17:00:22 +0000

After revealing the design of the OnePlus 10 Pro and giving us a launch date yesterday, OnePlus is back again today to share some of the upcoming phone's specs. While not the super-duper full list, it should give you a pretty good idea about the level of phone OnePlus is about to deliver. Below, we have confirmation of the OnePlus 10 Pro running a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. They didn't tell us how much RAM or storage, but rumors have them at up to 12GB and 256GB, respectively. We also know that the rear camera is a "second-generation Hasselblad" system made up of 48MP, 50MP, and 8MP lenses, that dual OIS is featured, and that the selfie camera weighs in at 32MP. The display (rumored to be 6.7") has a 120Hz refresh rate, is of the AMOLED variety and has LTPO (a 2nd-generation calibration). We have a 5000mAh battery with 80W SuperVOOC wired charging and 50W AirVOOC wireless charging. Those are both OPPO charging solutions, in case you aren't recognizing the "VOOC" branding. There are dual stereo speakers, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and dimensions of 163x73.9x8.55mm, as well. It's basically the same exact size as the OnePlus 9 Pro.

OnePlus has only shared this with us in an official capacity. I'd imagine there will be plenty more to reveal before the OnePlus 10 Pro hits China next week. Liking any this so far?

Everything Fixed in This Month's Google Pixel Update

Kellen — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 12:50:48 +0000

The update for Google's Pixel phones that started rolling out today to most still-supported devices is yet another bug fixer that is likely taking care of initial Android 12 issues. Android 12 has proven to be a massive update from Google that they clearly needed more time to polish and have spent the majority of the past two months trying to do that. While not the size of the list we saw in December, this new January Android patch is still aiming to squash a bunch of items that were causing problems. And look, even if the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro aren't getting their January update until later, Google is telling us some of the stuff they fixed for those phones in the list below. You'll notice that Google is indeed fixing things like the emergency calls bug that Microsoft Teams was causing, a Pixel Stand setup issue, several user interface items, and "general" fixes and improvements for network stuff.

Framework

Fix for issue causing screen to unlock after missed call when no screen lock is set *[1].

Network & Telephony

General fixes & improvements for network

Fix for issue preventing emergency calls in certain conditions while some third-party apps are installed *[4].

Power

Fix for issue preventing Pixel Stand setup to start after updating apps in certain conditions *[2].

System

Fix for issue causing incorrect data usage accounting in Network menu on some networks *[1].

User Interface

Fix for issue causing a black frame to appear when dismissing the Assistant overlay on the lock screen

Fix for issue causing memory leak in system UI under certain conditions *[1].

Fix for issue causing navigation bar to be hidden when switching device orientation in certain conditions *[1].

Fix for issue causing PIP window to render incorrectly for certain apps *[1].

Wi-Fi

Fix for issue causing Wi-Fi network to drop connection in certain conditions *[3].

*[1] Included on Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 5, Pixel 5a (5G), Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro

*[2] Included on Pixel 4 / XL, Pixel 5, Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro

*[3] Included on Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro

*[4] Included on Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 5, Pixel 5a (5G), Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro

Again, the update is rolling out as early as today to the Pixel 3a through. To check for it, head into Settings>System>System update.

Verizon Galaxy Note 20 Lineup Gets Android 12!

Tim — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 10:49:58 +0000

We're getting email upon email with Galaxy Note 20 owners on Verizon celebrating the arrival of Android 12 on their devices. It's happening, let's go!! Verizon lists the software update as build version N981USQU2EULE for the Galaxy Note 20 and N986USQU2EULE for the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. Inside, it's Android 12 with One UI 4 on top, complete with the December security patch. Expect all the Android 12 fixings, such as Color Themes, Privacy Dashboard, the Samsung Keyboard update, camera improvements, and more. Today's a good day, unless you're a Pixel 6 owner. Heh. // Verizon [2]

January 2022 Android Security Update Now Available for Google Pixel Phones

Kellen — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 10:24:13 +0000

The next monthly Android update is here for Google's Pixel phones in the form of the January Android security patch. I'd tell you that your Pixel phone can grab it now, but that's not actually true for everyone. Google's massive December update did indeed show up to all supported Pixel phones from the Pixel 3a up through the Pixel 5a last month. However, as you all know, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro update slowly rolled out to a few before being paused at the end of the month by Google. Google has told us to expect a January bug fixer for the Pixel 6 line in "late" January. At this time, if you own a Pixel 5a down to the Pixel 3a, you can grab the January update. We have both factory image and OTA files available. For Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners, the wait continues towards the end of January. Currently, we are seeing new 12.0.0 files for Pixel 5a (SQ1A.220105.002), Pixel 5 (SQ1A.220105.002), Pixel 4a 5G (SQ1A.220105.002), Pixel 4a (SQ1A.220105.002), Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL (SQ1A.220105.002), and Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL (SQ1A.220105.002). Google should begin pushing these updates shortly (Settings>System>Advanced>System update), but if you don’t want to wait for Google and prefer to update manually, you will find each factory image or OTA file at the links below. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go. Links:

AT&T 5G Subscribers Get 6 Months of GeForce NOW Membership

Tim — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 10:08:37 +0000

AT&T has been named a 5G Technical Innovation Collaborator by NVIDIA, and to celebrate, all of the carrier's 5G plans now include a 6-month priority membership to GeForce NOW. With this, you can start streaming plenty of free titles to your 5G-powered smartphone, but you can also access your library of titles from game stores like Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG. AT&T says that all one needs is a 5G device on a AT&T 5G plan to start and all of its unlimited plans are included in the promotion. The offer is for new and existing 5G customers. Score. // AT&T

Verizon Gets TCL 30 V 5G Exclusive, 30 XE 5G Heads to T-Mobile

Tim — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 08:39:16 +0000

For CES, TCL made quite a few announcements spanning across its product portfolio. For us, we're interested in the phone news. This week, the company announced a Verizon exclusive in the TCL 30 V 5G, while also announcing that T-Mobile would get its first TCL phone with the TCL 30 XE 5G. We don't yet have pricing and an availability date, but you can expect both devices to offer decent specs, including 5G connectivity, at a totally reasonable price. TCL details that the TCL 30 V will offer a triple rear camera setup with the main shooter being 50-megapixel, 6.7-inch display (60Hz refresh rate), 4,500mAh battery, and a Snapdragon 480 5G chipset with 4GB RAM. For the TCL 30 XE which will be available on T-Mobile first then followed by wider carrier availability, it comes with a 6.5-inch display featuring a 90Hz refresh rate, 4,500mAh battery, MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor with 4GB RAM, microSD support, face unlock, and Android 11. I still don't get how these less expensive devices come with expandable storage and face unlock while my Pixel 6 Pro doesn't, but that's life. Once we have official pricing and availability, we'll be sure to share. // TCL

Galaxy S21 FE Official, Available January 11 for $699

Tim — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 18:00:00 +0000

After a brief bit of uncertainty, Samsung has gone ahead and made the Galaxy S21 FE official this week during CES. The phone will be available beginning January 11, with an attractive starting price of just $699. Speaking briefly with regard to that aforementioned uncertainty, it looks as though Samsung would've been leaving way too much money on the table had it not pushed ahead and made this phone. Last year, Samsung sold 10 million Galaxy S20 FE units, easily making it one of the company's most popular smartphones. With figures like that, there's no way you don't follow up with a Galaxy S21 FE, so here we are. For specs, the Galaxy S21 FE features a 6.4-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 888 processor, base of 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, 4,500mAh battery with 25W wired charging, Wireless PowerShare, a triple rear camera setup, 5G connectivity (Sub-6 + mmWave), stereo speakers, IP68, and will be the first Samsung smartphone to run Android 12 out of the box. It'll of course come with One UI running on top of Android 12. At that starting price of $699, this phone looks like a direct competitor to the Pixel 6 ($599), and in terms of specs, they are very similar devices. However, it would be easy to argue that the S21 FE is slightly better if we look purely at the spec sheet. No one should do that, though. Samsung highlights the S21 FE's rear side camera array, hardware design, and performance as reasons to consider this device over others in the same price range. If you're considering the Galaxy S21 FE, I don't blame you, but take a second to think about the timing of this device. We should be coming up rather quickly on the Galaxy S22 lineup. If it was my money, I'd simply wait to see what Samsung has in store for us then. On the other hand, am I going to fault anyone for picking up one of these in that matte green colorway? Nope. Galaxy S21 FE goes on sale, with no charger in the box, starting January 11 on Samsung's website and retailers/carrier stores across the US.

Galaxy S21 FE Specs

[table id=216 /]

OnePlus 10 Pro is Official and Arriving January 11

Kellen — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 17:00:22 +0000

OnePlus has officially revealed the design of their upcoming flagship phone, the OnePlus 10 Pro. Here it is, folks. To start, OnePlus is launching the OnePlus 10 Pro in China on January 11. After that, well, we have no idea when it's coming here. It should come here before long, though, and once it does, we'll take it for a spin. From the images we've shared here, you can see that the OnePlus 10 Pro will come in black and green matte finishes and a camera housing that blends into the side frame, like Samsung did with the Galaxy S21 last year and will do again with the S22 this year. An accompanied reveal video also shows an inside view of the phone and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 it'll be powered by. Speaking of that camera, it features a triple rear sensor arrangement with what appears to be a massive flash ring. Hasselblad branding reminds us that OnePlus is still working with the legendary camera company to co-develop the experience on their best phones for the next few years. There's an alert slider there too, for those who missed it. And that's all we have for today from OnePlus. This is the phone. It launches in China on January 11. Volcanic Black. Forest Emerald. Big ol' camera.

Samsung Gaming Hub Brings Stadia, GeForce NOW to Your Samsung Smart TV

Tim — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 09:20:17 +0000

CES has officially kicked off, with Samsung announcing this week its very own game discovery platform. Called Samsung Gaming Hub, select Samsung Smart TV (2022 models) owners will be able to access this platform later in 2022, with the main draw being quick and direct access to services like Google's Stadia and NVIDIA's GeForce NOW for streaming games. That's actually pretty slick. Essentially, your 2022 Samsung Smart TV will be a game streaming box, capable of pairing with your favorite gaming controller (those are Samsung's words). Since we're still a little bit from launch, exact details are scarce, but I'd imagine most modern gaming controllers will be supported. And while this awesome, the main issue is that you'll need a brand new Smart TV from Samsung to access it. That won't be exactly cheap, but if you can swing it, access to this will certainly be a bonus. As we await which 2022 TV model numbers will offer this, start saving your money for a new TV. // Samsung

US Government Asks Verizon, AT&T to Pause 5G Launch and They Straight Up Said "No" (Updated!)

Kellen — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 08:30:05 +0000

Verizon and AT&T are itching to fire up their C-Band 5G networks to better compete with T-Mobile in the race to offer good 5G experiences. They initially planned to light up C-Band in December, but the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) asked them to pause until January 5, as there were concerns over how C-Band might interact with some airline equipment. It's now January and the US government still wants both to hold off for another two weeks, yet neither are interested in doing so for the most part. At the end of last week, the FAA and US government sent a letter to AT&T and Verizon, asking that they continue to pause their C-Band go-live for two weeks, rather than move forward with their January 5 planned launch. Verizon and AT&T responded (via Reuters) by saying "The laws of physics are the same in the United States and France," and therefore would still plan to go live with some buffer areas around airports. We'll come back to that silly quote in a second. The FAA and airline industry wanted more time to mark priority airports "where a buffer zone would permit aviation operations to continue safely while the FAA completes its assessments of the interference potential." Safety is the biggest concern, but the FAA has also said they want C-Band to still go live at some point this month while adding "priority airports on a rolling basis" into March. The Association of Flight Attendants and Air Line Pilots Association both back a further delay. The trade group Airlines for America, which represents American Airlines, FedEx, and others, asked the FCC to halt this new 5G deployment around airports over worries that thousands of flights could be delayed daily. But again, Verizon and AT&T still want to fire up C-Band and plan to do so on January 5. When they do, they will at least not turn it on around airports for six months, saying that further limitations beyond that would be "an irresponsible abdication of the operating control required to deploy world-class and globally competitive communications networks." F*cking lol. Their weird France quote from above has to do with a comparison they made between the US and how flights are operating there with C-Band live. If US flights can operate there each day, they should be fine doing so here, they believe. Verizon and AT&T's proposed buffer zones around airports are not as large as the FAA requested, though. Soooo, uhh, we'll see how this plays out over the next couple of days.

UPDATE 1/4: Verizon and AT&T caved a bit and agreed to delay their C-Band 5G launches for two weeks, just like the FAA and US government had requested they do. They are also committing to their safer protection zones for 6 months once they do fire up the network.

YouTube TV is Losing a Couple of Channels Today

Kellen — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 12:48:34 +0000

YouTube TV has had a weird couple of months, thanks to a two high profile and somewhat-public negotiations involving its channel line-up. Those two - with NBC and Disney - ended OK for subscribers, but to end the year, we'll see some channels disappear, though I'm not sure most will mind or notice. In an email going out to subscribers, YouTube TV is informing customers that they will lose CNBC World and NBC Sports Network starting today, December 31. The email doesn't say why CNBC World is going away, but NBC Sports Networks is ceasing operations. This was a known happening in the TV industry. All cable and streaming TV providers are losing those, with some content moving over to USA. Also, three Stadium college sports channels, which were a part of the Sports Plus package are also being removed.

Hi Kellen, We are writing to inform you of a few changes to our channel lineup. The following channels will no longer be made available on YouTube TV starting today, Friday, December 31, 2021, and you will no longer be able to watch live or access content you may have recorded in your Library from these channels:

CNBC World

NBC Sports Network

Please note that NBC Sports Network is ceasing operations for all distributors, but much of its programming will be transferred to USA Network, which is available on YouTube TV. We are sorry to share this news, but please know that at this time no other changes have been made to your YouTube TV service. As always, thank you for being a YouTube TV member. Sincerely, The YouTube TV team

For 2022, you keeping your YouTube TV subscription around?

Telegram Adds Message Reactions, Stops Your Buddy From Spoiling Spider-Man

Kellen — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 10:52:48 +0000

2021 is coming to a close and Telegram has delivered another solid update with new features that continue to further its lead as the best messaging app on the market. After grabbing the latest build, which is live for all, you'll be able to react to messages like iOS peeps, hide spoilers in conversations, translate messages in other languages, and play with more interactive emoji. Here's a breakdown of the new features to play with on this last day of the year:

Reactions: To react to a message with an animated emoji, you can double tap to quickly give it a thumbs up or tap to bring up a menu with several different emoji options. You can customize the double-tap emoji choice in Telegram "Chat Settings" to something other than the thumbs up, as well. For private conversations, reactions are available by default, but in groups or channels, the owner of the group can decide which reactions to make available.
Spoilers: Having a conversation about a show or movie that might contain a spoiler? When typing out your message that may contain a spoiler, you can highlight the text and then choose "Spoiler" from the cut/copy menu to hide that text. People can then tap the message to reveal it. What a nifty feature.
Message translations: If you are having a conversation or are in a public group that contains multiple languages you aren't familiar with, you can now translate them. If someone sends a message that needs translating, you can tap the message and then choose the "Translate" option to do so. To enable that translate option, simply head into Telegram settings and then Language.
New interactive emoji: Telegram added 🔥 😁 🤩 😢 😭 😱 ❄️ to their list of interactive emoji you can have fun with.
Also: Telegram added themed QR codes and there is a new menu system for the MacOS app.

Google Play Link: Telegram Again, because Telegram is awesome, this update is available everywhere right now. No stupid slow rollouts can be found. // Telegram

Galaxy S22 and S22 Ultra Colors Bring You Tough Choices

Kellen — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 09:32:11 +0000

You know that Samsung is finalizing those big Unpacked event details when all of the press renders for their new devices start showing up and that's happening now. Yesterday, we got our best look at the Galaxy S22 Ultra with S Pen and now today we're getting more, with color options of both the Galaxy S22 and the Ultra. The folks at 91Mobiles posted sets of renders that show the Samsung Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra from all angles and in all supposed colors. If there was any question about the designs for either phone, they should all be answered. The Galaxy S22 looks like a slightly more refined Galaxy S21 and the Galaxy S22 Ultra looks like the continuation of the Galaxy Note line after a year off. Neither is going to look that fresh and 2022 could very well be a minor upgrade year from Samsung, but that isn't always a bad thing if what they deliver resonates with Samsung's biggest fans.

Galaxy S22 vs. Galaxy S22 Ultra

In this first image, you get the clearest example of how different the S22 and S22+ are from the Ultra line. Samsung started this transition last year when they added S Pen support to the Galaxy S21 Ultra, but if you missed it, Samsung has fully moved its Galaxy S series into two camps. You have the regular S line and the S Ultra line, where the Ultra now essentially means "Note." Like with the S21/S21+ and the S21 Ultra, Samsung is going to tell you that if you want the classic Galaxy S experience and don't want to pay $1,200, the S22 and S22+ are for you, with most of the good stuff, just not all of it. If you want the ultimate ultimate, you are going to need a massive amount of cash on hand and want the S22 Ultra.

Galaxy S22 Colors

As for colors of the Galaxy S22 (and we assume the Galaxy S22+), Samsung is apparently putting out white, black, green, and pink options. Overall, these phones simply look like the Galaxy S21 line and that's probably fine. The S21 was unique enough, I just hope Samsung stops cutting corners for the S22 like they did when moving from S20 to S21.

Galaxy S22 Ultra Colors

For Galaxy S22 Ultra colors, you already saw the soft red (or "pink" for that one reader yesterday who was annoyed at us), but we will reportedly also see black, white, and green. There isn't much I can add here other than, "Colors!" We always like color options and these look very mature for Samsung. From the company who produces some of the worst color options in the industry, these aren't bad! Is the Galaxy S22 on your radar or are we all in "Galaxy S22 Ultra or bust" mode?

Microsoft Didn't Fulfill Its Surface Duo Android 11 Update Promise

Kellen — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 08:42:37 +0000

Microsoft made a promise a couple of months back that it was going to update its $1,400 Surface Duo device to Android 11 before 2021 ended. Unless something changes over the next several hours, they will fail to do so. That's both unsurprising and pathetic. I don't think I need to remind you of the history of the Surface Duo, a device with a cool hinge system and also one of the worst software experiences I've ever attempted to use. You know how poorly Microsoft's first Android effort was delivered, if not from our review then from others as well. There's no need to rehash this disaster. That's still no excuse for Microsoft to have failed owners of it this massively. The Surface Duo runs Android 10, a 2-year old version of Google's operating system, while the rest of the industry is moving onto Android 12. Samsung, who makes dozens and dozens of phones each year and continues to support older phones for up to 4 years, has already updated 5 or 6 device families to the newest version of Android. We are talking about hundreds of millions of phones. Microsoft now has two (2!) devices and neither run Google's latest offering, with one (the original Duo) still a full two (2!) versions behind. A rumor from the Windows Central crew suggests that Microsoft has had Android 11 ready for the Surface Duo internally for weeks and that the update probably got lost in some approval process over the holidays between it and Google as tech companies are notorious for taking extended vacations during this time. Come on, man, that's not even remotely close to being acceptable. Android 11 was promised over the summer and never arrived, only to then get a before-2022 second promise. Microsoft sucks at Android.

Hello, Ridiculously Pretty Galaxy S22 Ultra Press Render

Kellen — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 18:39:08 +0000

Samsung is likely gearing up to unveil the Galaxy S22 line within the next few weeks, at some point between virtual CES wrapping up and before MWC has a chance to be cancelled again. When they do, they are expected to show off another 3 phones including the Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, and the only one of the three that we all truly care about - the Galaxy S22 Ultra. To end the year, we are getting a really clean look at Samsung's 2022 king phone.

READ: Here are all of the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22 Ultra colors

As we have come to expect over the years, @evleaks dropped what appears to be a press render on us through Twitter. The image shows front, back, and side of the Galaxy S22 Ultra in a soft red color that highlights its camera setup. Oh, yeah, that's also an S Pen leaning up against the device, all but confirming this S Pen will be embedded and not just a weirdly attached accessory like Samsung attempted with last year's Galaxy S21 Ultra. Not sure you believe this S Pen will insert like it did on the old Galaxy Note line? Again, we trust the source here and it matches up to that in-the-wild Galaxy S22 Ultra we saw a few weeks back that also had an S Pen. Those old renders that changed a couple of times and were slightly off in the camera housing department also show an S Pen. There isn't much else to take from this image, as the details of the S22 Ultra have been steadily pouring in. If anything, it confirms a pretty color and gives us another look at that much cleaner camera setup than we had initially expected. Overall, this looks nice, assuming you are a fan of the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. The best Galaxy S phone has indeed become a Galaxy Note phone. You cool with that? // @evleaks

Verizon Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G Gets December Security Patch

Tim — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 11:45:01 +0000

Samsung stay busy in December, y'all. While Google be struggling with the December update game, Samsung making its play to retain the King of Android Updates crown, now pushing the December patch to the Galaxy Tab S7 FE on Verizon. I see you, Samsung. Listed as software version T738USQU1AUL3, the changelog also lists performance improvements for the device, but doesn't say anything specific. Regardless, a timely update is a timely update, something that seems hard to get around these parts. Good lookin'. // Verizon

Google Confirms Pixel 6 December Update Pause

Tim — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 09:25:21 +0000

In a bit of frustrating news, Google has confirmed that it has paused the December update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, aka the first Feature Drop update for the two devices. The majority of us assumed this was the case, as the OTA has yet to hit many devices, but now, on December 30 and with one day left for the year, Google confirms this to be the case. Thank you for the transparency, Google. While that's frustrating enough for some people, Google also takes it a step further. In a statement, the company confirms that there is a bug in the update that causes connectivity issues, leading phone calls to be dropped. That's the main issue. For the people suffering from this, you have two terrible options. You can either wait for an update, which Google says will come in late January or you can manually flash an old build of Android 12 onto your device using the Android Flash Tool (flash.android.com), which will require a full system wipe. Just to emphasize further, both of those options suck and Google should do better. In our eyes, it shouldn't take so long to get an important bug fix out the door. Additionally, telling the public to use Flash Tool to revert to older builds and wipe their devices? Are you kidding? We have to put warning labels on coffee cups that the contents of said coffee cup may be hot. I'm not so confident in everyone being able to do this. If you aren't experiencing issues after the update, no action is required and you're apparently very fortunate. Lastly, I also want to mention again that we're frustrated about the length of time it has taken Google to acknowledge this. We constantly have emails and tweets pouring in with Pixel users asking us where the December update is. We didn't have a good answer until now. And with it essentially being New Years Eve, with an update not scheduled now until late January, that seems like very, very poor form on Google's part. We'll keep you posted. Note: Google has deleted this post and we're not sure why. Either way, we're sharing this information, but something may change. We'll monitor the situation. Below you can view the post in its entirety before it was deleted. Update #1: Google has republished the post. As far as we can tell, no wording has changed, so we're not sure why they did that. // Google Support

Samsung Foldables Had a Better 2021 Than You

Tim — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 08:47:38 +0000

Samsung provided insight on its foldable sales for the year of 2021, and as things have pointed to over the year, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 have done very well for the company. In simple terms, they crushed.

Reviews: Galaxy Z Fold 3 | Galaxy Z Flip 3

According to Samsung, in the first month of availability, the Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 exceeded total sales of Samsung foldable devices in all of 2020, which is wild. Building on that stat, Samsung shipped 4x more foldables in 2021 than in 2020, so if anyone was thinking foldables were going away anytime soon, you'd be mistaken. Sadly, Samsung didn't give us any specific shipment figures. We can do our own guesstimate math, though. According to CounterPoint, who do this type of research, a total of 2.8 million foldables devices were shipped in 2020. In their figures, they note that Samsung owned 73% of that number. That puts Samsung foldables shipped for the year of 2020 around 2 million. With Samsung saying they have quadrupled that, we must be around 8-10 million units shipped for 2021. Samsung caps off its end of year flex by saying that they continue to invest heavily in R&D for these devices, as well as partnering with apps and services to make the overall foldable experience even better for buyers. Good job, Samsung. // Samsung

DEAL: Scoop a Nest Mini (2nd Gen) for Only $25

Tim — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 14:07:30 +0000

It may be too late for a stocking stuffer, but a Nest Mini (2nd Gen) at $25 is hard to turn down. Typically priced at $49, Best Buy is selling them at 50% off, getting you access to Google Assistant and tunes wherever you have a wall outlet. Having had one of these puppies in my home since launch, I can tell you that they're a really upgrade over the original Home Mini. The sound these pump out is much thicker and I also feel that the microphone array is much better at hearing me over cranked music. For $25, it's a must-have. Follow the link below to take advantage.

Best Buy Link

Verizon Galaxy S21 Lineup Gets December Patch, Visual Voicemail Improvements

Tim — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 08:30:21 +0000

Samsung is relentless, pushing updates like crazy before we kick off 2022. I almost feel bad for their software team, but hey, I suppose this is what they signed up for and I'm sure they're compensated well for their efforts. Anyhoo, Verizon's lineup of Galaxy S21 devices is now receiving yet another update, this time with December's security patch. That's right, this is the phone's second update in one month. Beyond the patch, Verizon also lists improvements for Visual Voicemail. This is great news for anyone using that tool.

Updated Software Version Numbers

Galaxy S21: G991USQS4BULC
S21+: G996USQS4BULC
S21 Ultra: G998USQS4BULC

Samsung out here trying to get its King of Android Updates crown returned. I like it. // Verizon [2] [3]

Android Game Spotlight: Football Fans, Check Out Retro Bowl

Tim — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 14:44:10 +0000

This game isn't new by any means, but it is new to me. We got a good amount of snow these past couple of days, so I was bored and was checking out Google Play for a new game to try. I came across Retro Bowl and the amount of positive reviews the game has had me downloading it quite quickly. Out of nearly half a million reviews, it holds a 4.8-star rating. That's solid. The game is designed for football lovers, but also people who possibly love the nostalgia of those old pixelated games of the 80s and 90s. In Retro Bowl, you wear a few hats in an NFL organization. You're the head coach, GM, and the player whenever you're holding the ball. With these roles, you'll be drafting rookies, balancing a salary cap, making hires of offensive and defensive coordinators, fining players for doing stupid things detrimental to the team's morale, and obviously playing some football. For being a very barebones and pixelated game, the gameplay itself is a ton of fun and very smooth. Once you get the basic controls, like whether you want to hand the ball off to the RB or throw a pass to a TE or WR, it'll all come down to how well you can dissect what the defense is doing. For example, there are clearly formations designed to protect against the run, while others defend passing plays. It's up to you to choose wisely, as the Dynamic Difficultly setting will have no issue in making you look and feel like a complete noob on the field. I won't get much more into it, but suffice it to say, this game seriously kicks ass. I'm in my fourth season right now after getting hired by the 49ers to run their operation. My past accomplishments include two Retro Bowl championships with the Philadelphia Eagles. Not too shabby! Last but not least, while there are in-app purchases (I'd only recommend the first $0.99 one to help support the developers and unlock a few of premium options), there are zero ads in this game. Can you even believe that? For a free game of this quality? It's pretty goddamn incredible. Go download it and get yourself a fast RB. Trust me.

Google Play Link

https://youtu.be/SWTl_8RHXPQ

Verizon Galaxy Z Fold 3 Gets Android 12 (One UI 4) Update (Z Flip 3, Too!)

Tim — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 09:57:48 +0000

Ringing in the New Year like whoooaaa. Verizon has begun pushing the Android 12 (One UI 4) update to the Galaxy Z Fold 3. The timing lines up, as Samsung has had Android 12 in beta testing on this device, as well as the Galaxy Z Flip 3, since November. What's new in Android 12? A whole bunch of sweet swag. Samsung brings a whole changelog of things, such as color themes, the Privacy Dashboard, an updated Samsung Keyboard experience, plus so much more. Android 12 is a big one, so this should be an exciting time for Galaxy Z Fold 3 owners. As for the Galaxy Z Flip 3, we assume that phone will also be updated at some point this week. As soon as we get notification that it's rolling out, we'll update this post. The update for the Galaxy Z Fold 3 is listed as software version F926USQS1BUL6. Update: As expected, the update is now live for the Galaxy Z Flip 3 as well. It's listed as software version F711USQS2BUL6. // Verizon

Galaxy S21 FE Gets Unboxed, Toured Ahead of Unveiling

Tim — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 08:43:15 +0000

Following the Galaxy S21 FE launch is like being on a roller coaster. One day, it's likely cancelled due to the chip shortage -- or Samsung's foldables are selling too well -- then the next day it's back on and getting leaked left and right. This phone has given me a good case of whiplash. As of today, we're 99.9% sure this phone is coming to market and it's coming very soon. We're this confident because the type of leaks we're seeing, such as retailer pricing and now complete unboxings, are only possible when a phone is out of Samsung's control and getting sent to selling partners across the globe. Plus, industry leakers are pointing to a January 4 unveiling, followed by a January 11 launch date. Long story short, it's coming soon. So here we are, ahead of the phone's official unveiling and already we have YouTubers unboxing the phone. The channel HDblog takes us on a great tour of the phone, showing off the hardware from all angles and even detailing the software. It's your standard unboxing and overview experience, complete with fun-colored lighting. Even more standard is this Galaxy S21 FE. It's very much Samsung in hardware and software appearance, with One UI running on top of Android 12. If priced extremely competitively, it could be a good option over the Pixel 6. The only thing we don't know for absolute certain is the US launch date and pricing for the device. If the phone is as close to launch as we think it is, we'll know all of that very soon. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVQh3yWm_kY&ab_channel=HDblog

DEAL: Save Up to $90 on Fossil Gen 6 Smartwatch ($229+)

Tim — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 13:03:04 +0000

Fossil is hosting a solid sale on its new Gen 6 smartwatches, powered by Wear OS. With the sale, you can save as much as $90 on the price, bringing the starting price for one of these wearables down to a completely reasonable $229. For specifications, the Fossil Gen 6 devices come with a Snapdragon Wear 4100+ chip, 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, GPS, NFC, Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, heart rate and SpO2 sensor, 3ATM water resistance, and a 1.28″ round AMOLED display that’s surrounded by a 44mm case. That 44mm case is made of stainless steel and supports 22mm quick-change straps. Other specs include a speaker and microphone for taking calls, a lot of wellness-related software tracking, fast charging, as well as Fossil’s excellent battery mode to help you customize the experience. Fossil had this same sale last month and just like then, we think it's a fine deal now. Eventually, it should receive Wear OS 3, so if you're a fan of this hardware, it's something to consider. Shop Fossil Gen 6 Deals: Amazon | Fossil.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaDB4npMpa0

Third Time's a Charm: New Motorola Razr Foldable Coming

Tim — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 11:49:40 +0000

A Lenovo executive has taken to Weibo to announce that a new Motorola Razr foldable is coming soon. This will technically be the third Razr since Motorola brought the its first Razr foldable to market in late 2019. I say "technically" because the second Razr iteration was more of a spec bump versus a completely new phone. It was better than the first, but still very much not a great device. Will this be third time's a charm for the Razr? According to the Weibo post, which has been roughly translated to English, potential buyers can look forward to upgraded internals, upgraded UI, and a slightly changed up look for the hardware. For US buyers, it does appear Lenovo will first limit this device to the Chinese market. At least, that's what we're gathering from the Chinese and English translation. Would it surprise us if Lenovo skipped the US market entirely no? No, probably not. The new Razr would have to be a real piece of work to catch up to what Samsung is already selling in the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3. Would anyone be willing to give a third Razr a shot? It does have that nostalgia factor still. That has to be worth something. // Android Authority

Motorola Edge 5G Gets Security Patch Update, Bug Fixes

Tim — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 10:44:13 +0000

Verizon is pushing an update out to the Motorola Edge 5G, and at least according to Verizon's website, this appears to be the phone's first update? Hmm, interesting. Inside, Motorola has included the November security patch, plus a few bug fixes. The software build version is listed as RRM31.Q3-23-39-14.

Fixes

Addressed an issue where stadium authenticated Wi-Fi was failing to connect
Addressed an issue to enable 5G for visible SIM cards
Ensures proper Wi-Fi calling icon is now being displayed

Go snag that update, Moto Edge (2021) owners! // Verizon

New Android Phone for Christmas? Here's 10 Things to Do First

Tim — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 09:39:38 +0000

Whenever a popular new Android phone comes out, we like to provide a video with the First 10 Things to Do. These videos cover the simple things an owner can do to start making the phone a better experience, whether that be tweaking settings or simply going over all of the features of the device. We've been doing this for years, and considering we may have a lot of new phone owners following Christmas last week, it seems like a good time to share a few of the big ones from 2021. For example, if you got Google's new Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, we definitely have a video for you detailing what first to do with those phones. Got Samsung's sweet Galaxy Z Fold 3? Yup, we have 10 things for you to do with that phone, too. We also placed the OnePlus 9 series and Galaxy S21 lineup below. Basically, if you got one of the more popular Android phones from 2021, we'll have a video for you to check out and learn a few things from. We hope they help. Have at them below.

Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro

https://youtu.be/BwzkxbF9FAs

Galaxy Z Fold 3

https://youtu.be/PrifY0V8RtU

OnePlus 9, OnePlus 9 Pro

https://youtu.be/TfI9V-eGfBc

Galaxy S21 Lineup

https://youtu.be/dBWoT015xB4

We hope everyone got the device of their dreams this holiday season!

OnePlus 10 Pro Unveiling Set for January

Tim — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 08:46:48 +0000

Pete Lau, co-founder of OnePlus, took to Weibo late last week and announced that the OnePlus 10 Pro will be announced soon. How soon? Like, in January, which is only a few days away. If this seems like odd timing to you, it is. For years, OnePlus has typically given us the one-two punch of a base model and Pro device around a March to April timeframe. Moving things up to January is a pretty big bump, now putting it right up against any new flagship Samsung releases. Honestly, it's been a relatively long time since OnePlus released a phone, since the company opted not to release a T-series device in 2021. Internally, it seems that most of its energy is going towards software and the work it is doing with OPPO. We also hope a lot of energy has gone towards work it is doing with Hasselblad, but we shall see. Thanks to leaksters, we do have an idea of what to expect from a OnePlus 10 Pro. Here's the specs we're looking forward to and here's what it may look like. Ready for a new OnePlus phone? We are. It's been a while! // Weibo (Account Needed)

We're Starting to Talk About Android 13 Features

Kellen — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 13:27:16 +0000

Most of the phones on the planet do not yet run Android 12, which Google only released two months ago, but that won't stop us from talking about Android 13. The first details of Google's next version of Android are already starting to arrive and they give us at least a couple of things to look forward to in 2022. The folks at XDA say a source with access to an early Android 13 build has given them these early details that show a change to notifications, lock screen layouts, apps and languages, and the amount of energy apps can use depending on battery. For notifications, Google is apparently working on adding a runtime permission for notifications, essentially giving users the option to approve or disapprove an app from sending notifications upfront. Like how you get prompted to allow location or camera access, Android 13 could treat notifications similarly. This may piss off developers, especially the ones who love to abuse Android's notification system, but as a user, you should absolutely hope Google keeps this idea in Android 13 when it releases. We should all have more upfront controls over permissions, including notifications. There are few things more annoying than a new game or app sending you offers and other garbage you most definitely didn't ask for.

For lock screen layouts, we've heard this before, but Google is apparently going to give you more custom options on your phone's first screen. Right now, at least in Android 12 on Google phones, Google shows you a big centered clock when you have notifications, but then shrinks the clock up to the top left corner as notifications roll-in. For Android 13, they may let you tell the system to only always show the smaller clock in the top left that is being called the "Double-line clock." That's cool I guess. I just wish they would have kept going with the multi-clock options like Samsung allows. For languages, Android 13 might let you specify per app which language it displays. For example, you could have Chrome show German and then your messaging app show English. That's it...that's the idea. And finally, for apps and the energy they are allowed to burn, Google is working on something that is likely incredible complex called TARE. TARE stands for "The Android Resource Economy" and will use some sort of algorithm to decide how much energy or battery an app can use in the background depending on the battery status. It's called an "economy" because the idea basically lets apps trade a virtual currency to receive credits that will let them schedule resource use. I know that sounds kind of silly, but that's the explanation I'm attempting to relay in basic terms. There is a lot of unknown for TARE, and so we should all just sit back and wait for more details from Google on it. Android 13 could be as early as February in Developer Preview form, should Google follow the schedule of Android 12.

Nova Launcher Prime's Yearly $0.99 Sale is Here

Kellen — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 08:49:47 +0000

As we close out each year, there are some guarantees that we can't seem to avoid both in good and bad. There is the whining from media about the week they are about to spend in Vegas for CES. Samsung's new Galaxy S phone leaks go into overdrive. And Nova Launcher Prime goes on sale for $0.99. To end 2021, all of that has once again happened, although CES is about to become a ghost town as most have decided they'd rather sit at home than share all that potentially-toxic air with 120,000 people from across the globe. Anyways, Nova Launcher Prime is indeed on sale again for $1. Yay, for those who haven't bought it in previous years! I'd sell you on Nova Launcher Prime, but come on, man, it's 2021 and you should know what this app is. If you don't, well, just buy it and figure it out. I promise that you'll love it as a replacement launcher on your phone. If you own a Samsung, you 100% need this app to replace that awful horizontal app drawer that Samsung won't ditch. For everyone else, the advanced customization features are just fun to play with and will probably make your home screen experience far better no matter the device. Normally priced at $5, this is a really good deal. I'm sure you have at least $1 sitting in your Google Play balance from all of those Google Opinion Rewards, right? Google Play Link: Nova Launcher Prime

Motorola Confirms List of Phones Getting Android 12 and When

Kellen — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 11:17:35 +0000

After pointing out a fresh update to Motorola's only flagship phone in recent memory and openly wondering when it would receive its Android 12 update, a reader reached out to let us know that Motorola provided an official list yesterday. What timing! Not only that, but Motorola provided a timeline for when the first Android 12 updates would arrive on its phones and what features we can expect. The official list of Motorola phones getting Android 12 is as follows:

razr 5G
razr 2020
motorola edge 20 pro
motorola edge 20
motorola edge 20 lite
motorola edge 20 fusion
motorola edge (2021)
motorola edge 5G UW
motorola edge plus
motorola one 5G ace
motorola one 5G UW ace
moto g200 5G
moto g71 5G
moto g51 5G
moto g41
moto g31
moto g100
moto g60s
moto g60
moto g50 / moto g50 5G
moto g40 fusion
moto g30
moto g power (2022)
moto g pure
moto g stylus 5G
moto g pro (business edition)

In Motorola's blog post for this bit of news, they said they are still working on putting together Android 12 and their My UX experience, with beta tests happening now. They expect the first public updates to be available in February 2022. So what's new to Android 12 from Motorola? It's mostly what you would expect. You'll get the Material You Dynamic Coloring (below), the Conversations widget, new accessibility features including Extra Dim, Mic and Camera indicators for privacy awareness, the Privacy Dashboard, easier switching between phones, and a Moto Gametime to help you focus on your gaming career. There are more items that Motorola said to be on the lookout for as well.

Once we get to February, we'll start letting you know which phones are first. Cheers Saša!

Google Disables Call Screening on Pixel 6 Because of December Bug

Kellen — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 10:00:46 +0000

Google has yet to acknowledge what is going on with the December update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. We aren't sure if they found a critical bug that caused it to be pulled or if they really are just slowly rolling it out. Either way, most people in the US who aren't interested in sideloading the build don't seem to have received the update over-the-air. In one of the first hints of trouble, Google posted to its Phone app help page to inform Pixel 6 owners that they had to disable the Hold For Me/Call Screening feature if they were running the December update. Specifically, if running any of the SQ1D builds for December on a Pixel 6, Google has turned off the popular phone feature that lets Assistant sit on hold for you and also screen unwanted calls as they come through. Google said only that "a bug" was found and they are "actively working on resolving the issue." To confirm, on my Pixel 6 with build SQ1D.211205.017, I do not have the Call Screen or Hold For Me options any longer.

Pixel 6 Pro (Nov) vs. Pixel 6 (Dec)

While this doesn't say why the Pixel 6's December update is still not hitting most phones (I still don't have it on my Pixel 6 Pro on Google Fi), it does at least acknowledge that there may be issues with the update. We've reached out to Google asking for any info we can pass along about the update, but have not heard back. Cheers Lewis!

Motorola Edge+ Gets the December Update

Kellen — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 09:18:44 +0000

Motorola only owes Edge+ owners one more OS update to Android 12, assuming they plan to keep the promise they made when it launched. To end the year, they are not delivering that update, but they are at least pushing out the December Android patch, which seems like a big enough deal. Motorola, as you all know, is not good at updating their phones. Even this $1,000 Edge+ phone typically only gets updates every couple of months instead of monthly, like Samsung and Google try to do with their phones. Seeing the December patch arrive in December is a nice surprise, though. The update is minor and appears to only provide "the most up to date Android security patches" to the Edge+. The build you'll see if you own this phone is RPB31.Q1-19-58-30-4. Again, Android 12 is supposed to be coming. Motorola promised us. Unfortunately, it could be a while before we see that if the Android 11 update timing is anything to go by. Motorola delivered that update in March of 2021, which is a full 6 months or so after Google released it publicly.

READ: Motorola provided an official list of phones getting Android 12 updates

// Verizon

Google Pixel Watch Evidence Mounts

Kellen — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 13:23:37 +0000

For the first time in the years-long running conversation around a supposed Pixel Watch, real evidence is starting to appear that suggests we may finally get one. After a new Wear OS 3 emulator build was discovered a week ago, signs from within it pointing to a Pixel Watch are piling up and we can probably all (for real this time) cross those fingers that one is coming sooner rather than later. The newest drop of details includes mention of a "PIXEL_EXPERIENCE_WATCH" alongside a possible codename of "Rohan." Additionally, Google may be cooking up a better Google Assistant experience in this new watch that is powered by a Samsung Exynos chip. As they continue to dig into the files from the new Wear OS 3 build, 9to5Google has found that "PIXEL_EXPERIENCE_WATCH" tag, which could be used to pull-up exclusive Pixel features. Google already does something similar with its phones, using a tag like “PIXEL_EXPERIENCE_2021" for the Pixel 6, as an example. By specifically calling this Pixel Experience a "watch," that sure seems like a slam dunk confirmation of a Google-made Pixel Watch on the horizon. Digging further, there is evidence that Google will use its next-generation Assistant in the Pixel Watch, just like it does on its phones. The next-generation Assistant is basically a quicker, on-device run Assistant. If you've ever tried to use Google Assistant on a Wear OS device, you understand how big of a deal this could be. The current Assistant experience is...awful. Any and all speed improvements will be welcomed. Oh, this is what it could look like, with that fun Google bar at the bottom that sure reminds us of the Assistant bar on Pixel phones.

And finally, the codename of "Rohan" has apparently appeared within code for this new Wear OS 3 build and those appearances have led to sightings of a Samsung Exynos chipset. There are a couple of things to take from that. For one, this could mean that Google is using a similar Exynos chip that Samsung is in the Galaxy Watch 4 line, the W920. Or two, it could mean they are planning to somehow implement a Google Tensor-related chip of some sort, which first debuted in the Pixel 6. Tensor, for those unaware, is basically a Samsung Exynos chip that Google has done a bit of customization to. This is a wild idea, but maybe Google has cooked up a similar experience for its own watch that'll brand with "Tensor." Pixel Watch might really be coming and that's big news.

OSOM Shows Off First Phone, Brings Back All the Essential Phone Vibes

Kellen — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 09:22:29 +0000

We talked about the Galaxy Nexus on its 10-year anniversary last week and how it's one of those phones that sticks out in my mind as one of the most important to Android's history, even if it was a terrible phone. Another phone that I'd put in that category, mostly because it was a camera away from being incredible, was the Essential Phone. We never did get a follow-up, but the crew who made it (sans Andy Rubin), a company called OSOM, are about to give us something close to it. The Essential Phone (or PH-1) is one of those devices that was ahead of its time in design, felt as premium as Apple's best phones, and ran the software we enjoyed with an update speed that not even Google could match. It's camera was absolutely the worst of the worst, it struggled with network connections, and the display was put on upside-down or something, causing it to have never-ending touch issues, but if you look outside of those flaws, I'm still not sure you'll find a sexier phone, even today. Of course, Essential died because Andy Rubin. We never got the Essential Phone 2 or those weird GEM phones, but OSOM has teased their first phone and I'm sure you'll find that it looks familiar.

OSOM sat down for a brief chat with Android Police and sent them this one image of the back of the device. Look at that thing - how can you not feel the Essential phone vibes from it? It's so hot. While not a finished product that you can buy, this could be pretty close to what they'll offer next year. And yes, the first OSOM phone, dubbed OSOM OV1 (for now), will be fully revealed at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in early 2022 and then arrive next summer. Once it does, we know it'll have a couple of cameras on the back, a rear fingerprint reader, a Qualcomm chip inside, a clean Android experience, and a lot of privacy-focused stuff going on. The plan is to sell it unlocked without carrier partners in the US (plus Canada and some European countries). Is this - a privacy-forward phone - something a lot of people will want to buy? That doesn't sound interesting enough to get the attention of many, but OSOM CEO Jason Keats seems to believe there are enough and that his company doesn't need to sell 90 million of these phones to be successful. So that's good, I just hope they don't get so caught up in the privacy angle that the camera is dogsh*t, performance and display responsiveness are bad, and the phone can't hold a cell signal (Keats says it should be fine and that was an Essential problem because of Rubin). Also, if the word crypto is mentioned anywhere near this "privacy" phone, we're never talking about it again. Anyways, the follow-up to the Essential Phone is coming next year! That's actually pretty exciting.

Galaxy Note 9 Gets First Update on Its New Quarterly Schedule

Kellen — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 08:28:09 +0000

The Galaxy Note 9 from Samsung is old enough that it no longer receives monthly updates, but that doesn't mean the phone is done getting new software. Now on a quarterly schedule, Samsung's oldest still-supported Note phone is getting a fresh piece of software to finish out the year. Through Verizon (and elsewhere too, we assume), Samsung is giving the Galaxy Note 9 the November Android security patch and build QP1A.190711.020.N960USQU9FUK1. This build is supposed to provide performance improvements in addition to the "most up to date Android security patches." To check for an update if you are running a Note 9 still, you'll head into Settings>About phone>Software updates>Check for updates. Enjoy.

Google is Cutting Off OnHub Router Support Next Year

Kellen — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 11:01:02 +0000

Google notified owners of OnHub-branded routers today that they will need to upgrade to a new WiFi setup before the end of next year. OnHub routers, which were kind of the start of Google WiFi before there was Google WiFi, will lose support in December of 2022. The official end date for OnHub routers is December 19 of 2022. After that date, OnHub routers will still be able to produce a WiFi signal, but there won't be any controls for it through the Google Home app any longer. Things like network settings, adding additional WiFi devices, running speed tests, and controlling it with Google Assistant will all go away. The performance of OnHub also won't be guaranteed any longer. What's Google doing to help OnHub owners move on to something newer, modern and still supported? If you are actively using an OnHub router, you should receive an email with this news, along with a 40% off code that can be used to get a Nest WiFi setup as a replacement. That code will need to be redeemed by March 31, 2022. With a 40% off code, and the current discounts running on Nest WiFi products, you could get into one for under $100. Here's our review on Nest WiFi from a couple of years back. Also, yes, Nest WiFi is a couple of years old at this point and lacks modern features like WiFi 6. It could be a solid option if you don't care much about WiFi speeds and like the Google Home app. It would be nice to see Google offer an upgraded model, though. Again, OnHub-branded routers will barely work come December 2022. Cheers M!

Pixel 6 Owners in the US, Your Big Day as Arrived

Kellen — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 10:23:57 +0000

Hey, Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners in the US, it looks like today is your day. The December update, with Pixel Feature Drop goodies and almost 100 bug fixes, is apparently ready and rolling out, at least according to Verizon. After a couple of weeks of delays, Verizon says that today

Samsung Will Give You Over $1,000 Off the Galaxy Z Fold 3, Free Case and Buds 2

Kellen — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 09:48:40 +0000

Samsung is running a last minute "Exclusive Holiday Offer" on the Galaxy Z Fold 3 that gets its price down somewhere in the range of a Pixel 6, assuming you have a phone to trade. Thanks to a combination of instant discount and trade-in offer, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 could be yours for as low as $649. As insane as that sounds, Samsung is further juicing the deal by giving you a free leather case ($80) and free Galaxy Buds 2 ($150) with it. This is a hell of a deal. So here's how it works:

Choose the Galaxy Z Fold 3 you want. Some colors are available today, likely through Best Buy via Samsung's site.
The Fold 3 is currently $250 off without trade-ins or anything tricky. That drops the price from $1799 to $1549.
If you do trade-in a phone, you'll fetch premium dollars for it to knock hundreds off on top of that $250 off discount. The Galaxy Z Fold 2 gets you the most at $900 off, but a Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is also fetching $825 and the S21 Ultra is getting $750. This is an instant discount that you get today.
After choosing your Fold 3 and trade-in, you get to add a free leather case and Galaxy Buds 2. you'll see them listed just below the trade-in section.
Boom. Enjoy your $1800 foldable that only cost you a few hundred dollars, just in time for Xmas.

This Galaxy Z Fold 3 deal is only good for about 24 hours from the time of this post. If you don't jump on it before 9AM Pacific tomorrow (12/21), it will be gone. I know that spending $650+ for a foldable phone is still a lot of money, but with the freebies and the semi-bloated trade-in values make this the best Fold 3 deal we've seen to date. It's just so good. Oh, here's our review too.

Anker's 4K Nebula Android TV Dongle is $49.99 Today, Its Lowest Price Yet

Kellen — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 07:36:45 +0000

A couple of months ago, Anker released its NEBULA 4K Streaming Dongle with HDR (official name) without much promotion. The product stood out because it runs Android TV, is small enough to tuck behind a TV, and appears to come with a pretty sweet remote. Unfortunately, it was priced well north of Google's Chromecast with Google TV, making it a tricky option. Today, it's on sale and now potentially worth considering. Through Amazon, Anker is running a deal on the Nebula 4K Streaming Dongle with HDR (lol, that name) that drops the price from $89.99 to $49.99. It now matches Google's own dongle in price (when it's not on sale, which it is right now), but stands out a bit because of its remote and the non-Google TV interface you should get. Looking at features, alongside Android TV, you get 4K HDR10, Dolby Audio, access to Google Play and all of its apps (like Netflix, Disney, YouTube, etc.), Google Assistant, connection over HDMI 2.0, Bluetooth 5.0, 802.11ac WiFi, a quad-core processor, and 8GB storage. For controls, that remote says it supports input switching, shortcuts for YouTube, Netflix, Prime, and Disney+, volume controls (including mute), a shortcut to fire up a live TV guide, favorites shortcut, and a button for Google Assistant. And again, this should run Android TV, which people like me prefer over Google TV's overwhelming recommendation sh*tshow and slow performance. To get this dongle at $49.99, there are a couple of things you have to do. The first is to check the little box on the product page that applies a $20 coupon at checkout. Then, once you are at checkout, you apply code "DMDONGLE" to get another $10 off. Amazon Deal Link

YouTube TV Brings ESPN, Disney Back and Keeps Price at $65

Kellen — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 13:45:04 +0000

After losing all of the Disney networks on Friday, including ESPN and ABC, YouTube TV and Disney have now come to an agreement to bring it all back. Not only that, but YouTube TV's price won't increase and will remain at $65 per month. Oh! And some of you should still get a $15 credit because you had to deal with this sh*t. In a blog post (and email you should have received), Google says that they have started restoring access to Disney networks, as well as ESPN and your local ABC affiliate. Everything should come back on over the course of today, plus your personal preferences, recommendations, and recordings should all be restored. As for that $15 credit I mentioned, because Google said that they'd drop the price of YouTube TV to $50/mo with the loss of these networks, they are still promising a one-time credit "for all impacted Base Plan members." They also went on to say today:

For active members who have not yet received that $15 discount on their monthly bill, you will automatically receive a one-time credit on your next bill with no action needed. Note that your bill in Settings will not reflect this credit until you have been charged. Members who are in a paused state will receive this credit one month after their first charge. Verizon-billed users will automatically receive this as a one-time discount of $15 on their next bill. The price for new users will be $64.99.

For those of you who stuck around, the networks returning today are:

Your local ABC channel
ABC News Live
Disney Channel
Disney Junior
Disney XD
Freeform
FX
FXX
FXM
National Geographic
National Geographic Wild
ESPN
ESPN2
ESPN3 (by authentication to the ESPN app)
ESPNU
ESPNEWS
SEC Network
ACC Network

Unfortunately, the return of these networks hasn't brought them back into custom guides, as far as I can tell. You'll have to manually add ESPN, Disney, and all of the networks above back to your custom guide if you have one. It's not a super difficult process, but because there are so many networks returning, it might take you a bit to get it all set back up. Everyone still keeping YouTube TV after this drama?

YouTube TV Really Just Lost ESPN, Disney, and ABC (Updated)

Kellen — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 21:06:26 +0000

YouTube TV hasn't confirmed this with a public statement yet, but if you login to your account, you'll likely notice that all of the Disney family of channels are now gone. It actually happened, folks. YouTube TV and Google said that the service may lose Disney, ESPN, ABC, and other affiliated networks if a deal wasn't reached today, December 17, and they appear to have not reached one. This is a bit of a shocker, as Google just went through this process with NBC a couple of months ago, only to reach a deal at the last minute. There is always a chance that Disney and Google come to a deal here shortly and restore the channels that just disappeared, but there's also a chance that that doesn't happen and this is life with YouTube TV going forward. Of course, if all of the Disney networks are gone, Google said they would lower the price of YouTube TV by $15, dropping it back from $65/mo to $50/mo. As of now, that should happen unless something changes here before your next bill. The full list of channels you had up until a few minutes ago is as follows:

Your local ABC channel
ABC News Live
Disney Channel
Disney Junior
Disney XD
Freeform
FX
FXX
FXM
National Geographic
National Geographic Wild
ESPN
ESPN2
ESPN3 (by authentication to the ESPN app)
ESPNU
ESPNEWS
SEC Network
ACC Network

We'll keep an eye out for an official statement from anyone involved.

UPDATE 1: YouTube TV is now sharing a statement in apps and the web to confirm that the networks are indeed gone and that a price decrease is coming unless a new agreement is reached. There should be an email arriving in inboxes shortly with more details.
UPDATE 2: Google released the following statement in a blog post tonight--

We’ve held good faith negotiations with Disney for several months. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we’ve been unable to reach an equitable agreement before our existing one expired, and their channels are no longer available on YouTube TV. We will be decreasing our monthly price by $15, from $64.99 to $49.99 while this content remains off of our platform. We know this is frustrating news for our customers, and not what we wanted. We will continue conversations with Disney to advocate on your behalf in hopes of restoring their content on YouTube TV. In the meantime, we’ll update this website soon with the latest updates, including channels impacted, alternative ways to continue enjoying some of Disney’s content on The Disney Bundle, information about our price decrease, plus any other questions you may have about this situation.

UPDATE 12/19: YouTube TV and Disney reached a deal. All of the channels are back and the price remains at $65/mo.

Cheers Lewis!

Galaxy S21 Lineup Discounted Big Time at Best Buy When You Activate Today

Tim — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 15:24:55 +0000

Best Buy is hosting a solid deal on the Galaxy S21 lineup right now, taking a high of $500 off the total price if you activate the device at time of purchase. And yes, this instant savings can be paired with Best Buy's trade-in values, which could make for some serious dough savings if you're into the whole trade-in thing. For pricing, let's start with the Galaxy S21. With activation today, the price is down to $499. That's $300 off the typical price. With a trade-in, you're look at even more. If you want the big boy, the Galaxy S21 Ultra, it can be had for as little as $699 if you go through T-Mobile. For other carriers, the price is $799. And again, if you have a trade-in, you'll be making out like a bandit. I checked the value of a Pixel 5 and Best Buy shows that with a value of $250. Not terrible. If you're ready to jump into a new phone and activate that sucker today, follow the links below.

Buy: Galaxy S21 | Galaxy S21+ | Galaxy S21 Ultra

Podcast: Let's End the Year

Kellen — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 09:23:31 +0000

On this episode of the Droid Life Show, it's time to wrap up 2021 with our final show of the year. We'll talk Pixel 6 again, Pixel Watch rumors, remember the Galaxy Nexus, and maybe a look briefly at 2022. Mostly, we just want to chat one last time with all of you. Trivia is back and we have money for you. We’ll be live at 12:00PM Pacific (3:00PM Eastern).

Pixel 6's December Update Sure is Rolling Out Slowly

Kellen — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 07:11:13 +0000

Because I'm writing this, Google is probably going to open the floodgates and give you the update you keep asking about, but yes, this month does seem slower than usual. We aren't sure what's happening, all we know is that the December update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro isn't readily available for all owners to simply pull and update to as we are used to. To back up for a second, everyone is well aware that Google pushed out the December update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro by a full week, separately from the other still-supported Pixel phones. All other Pixel phones got their builds on December 6 and the word from Google was that the Pixel 6 files would show up the following week. That then happened - the Pixel 6 factory image and OTA files were posted December 13, only the over-the-air update has been tough to find in the US. Since that moment Monday morning, we've seen numerous readers complain about not being able to head into Settings>System>System update and tap the "Check for update" button with any success. That's not typically how it's supposed to work. Remember, Google told us years ago that tapping that "Check for update" button is a "user-initiated" trigger that should confirm to Google servers that you want the update and to send it to you. For the most part in recent years, it has worked too. My Pixel 6 Pro running on Google Fi has not successfully pulled the update and I've been checking each day. The only semi-official word from Google on this slow rollout has been through the @MadebyGoogle Twitter account, where they are simply responding to complaints about the slowness of this update rollout with:

We've started rolling out December security patch update and your Pixel phone should receive it soon. Updates are released in phases and you'll receive a notification once it comes through. Appreciate your patience.

And to be honest, rolling this update out slower than usual makes some sense. The December update is a big one, at least in terms of the number of items it aims to fix or address. The list of bug fixes and tweaks that Google shared earlier in the month is one of the longest we've ever seen for an update. Android 12 clearly arrived with a lot of problems that Google has worked to fix in these first couple of months since it debuted in October on Pixel phones. Also, so you are all aware, the factory image and OTA files really are still out there for you to flash if you want. Google hasn't pulled them, as I've seen folks across the internet suggest. The US carrier build is listed as SQ1D.211205.017 for both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. I flashed the OTA build to my Pixel 6 the minute it dropped and have been running it since. If you want to go the same route I did, here are the instructions to do so. Flashing the OTA file won't factory reset your phone. To recap, yes, the December update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro hasn't arrived as quickly as we are used to. We don't know why. It's supposedly rolling out, though, and should be here before long if you'd like to keep hammering that "Check for update" like we used to do.

You Can Buy GeForce NOW RTX 3080 Memberships Now, No More Pre-Orders

Tim — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 14:38:42 +0000

NVIDIA announced this morning that cloud gaming lovers can instantly purchase RTX 3080 memberships for its GeForce NOW gaming service, with the pre-order period now over. We've already detailed what the RTX 3080 membership gets you. To put it simply, you get unmatched cloud computing power to play your Fortnite, Cyberpunk, or whatever else you may want to play. More specifically, gamers can expect to stream the highest resolution at the best FPS, regardless of what device you’re playing on. For example, desktop and laptop players will see up to 1440p at 120FPS. If you want to play on your Android device via the GeForce NOW Android app, you’ll have up to 120FPS gameplay, as well as 4K HDR streaming to SHIELD TV. The RTX 3080 tier also comes with an extended session length of 8 hours. For pricing, RTX 3080 membership costs $99 for 6 months of access. If you game for hours, it's a fine price for this level of power, I'd imagine.

Get RTX 3080 Membership

Google Fi Customers, Grab Your Free $10 in Google Play Credit

Kellen — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 10:46:01 +0000

Subscribers of Google Fi who have had an active account should jump into their Fi app or online account, as their holiday gift is awaiting. For this year, Google Fi is giving customers $10 to spend on Google Play. In order to claim, it seems you needed to have an active account that was active a couple of days ago. For example, my Fi account is always paused and resuming it today did not get me the credit. Sadface. But for you, the active and happy Fi user, jumping into your account should show a box at the top referencing "A year-end gift for you." That gift, again, is $10. Enjoy that $10, which you can use for all sorts of stuff, not just apps and games. I often use Google Play credit pay for services, like Google One.

IBM, Samsung Unveil New Chip Design That Will Lead to 'Week-Long Battery Life'

Tim — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 10:05:45 +0000

IBM and partner Samsung announced a breakthrough this week, one that could essentially touch every piece of technology ranging from consumer electronics to spacecrafts. Detailed in a video posted to YouTube, a new design for semiconductors would allow chip makers to stack transistors vertically versus the norm of arranging them flat on a semiconductor's surface. The current design for this process is called FinFET (Fin Field Effect Transistor), while IBM and Samsung's new process is called VTFET (Vertical Transport Field Effect Transistors). In plain terms of how this design could affect everyday computing, IBM says that VTFET chips could offer a 2x improvement in performance or an 85% reduction in energy use.

New VTFET Design vs. Old FinFET

Benefits of VTFET

Potential device architecture that enables semiconductor device scaling to continue beyond nanosheet
Cell phone batteries that could go over a week without being charged, instead of days
Energy intensive processes, such as cryptomining operations and data encryption, could require significantly less energy and have a smaller carbon footprint
Continued expansion of Internet of Things (IoT) and edge devices with lower energy needs, allowing them to operate in more diverse environments like ocean buoys, autonomous vehicles, and spacecraft

For us here at Droid Life, the idea of finally seeing smartphones that can last over a week instead of only a day or two is titillating. Naturally, with this announcement only being made this week, we have a ways to go before we see VTFET implemented into buyable everyday goods for, let alone powering our rocket boots and spaceships. At least we now know what we're working towards. For a more detailed look at what's happening with VTFET, watch the video below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OF3Zwfu6Ngc&ab_channel=IBMNews // The Verge

Chrome for Android Gets Price Tracking, Google Lens Shopping

Kellen — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 09:00:38 +0000

Google Chrome is picking up a couple of sweet features on Android this week that would have been super handy a few weeks ago...before we all had our holiday shopping done. Hey, better late than never! The first big feature is price tracking through Chrome on Android. When you are viewing your tabs grid, if you have a product open in one, Chrome will attempt to show you an updated price if it has fluctuated. You can see how that will look below, so that you can refresh that same page a few less times today.

The next big feature is Google Lens integration from the address bar. Chrome will now let you tap the Lens icon up there and then start searching with your camera, assuming you happen to spot an item while out and about that you'd like to buy and need more info on. This feature will also come to desktop soon, where a right-click and then "Search images with Google Lens" option will appear. One other new feature coming to Chrome on Windows and Mac involves shopping carts. Let's say you were shopping online and added some stuff to a shopping cart, but then forgot what it was and where. You'll now be able to open a new tab and scroll to the "Your carts" card to see sites where you had items in a shopping cart. I'd imagine Google will need to partner with sites to make this work and they've already said that Zazzle, iHerb, Electronic Express, and Homesquare are some that will even offer discounts if you use "Your carts" to return and checkout. Google Play Link: Chrome // Google

Alien: Isolation Now Out on Android, Priced at $15

Tim — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 08:14:57 +0000

Alien: Isolation, the horror game I still can't bring myself to play a second time, is now available on Android and iOS devices. Ported by Feral Interactive, the title is priced at $14.99, but do note that it includes all 7 DLC titles at no extra cost. Before diving into the game, which focuses on Ellen Ripley's daughter, Amanda, trying to outsmart and escape from a Xenomorph onboard a space station, you'll need to know Feral has put pretty strict requirements on this game. For example, you'll need a "high-end" Android phone to run the game. Pixel 4 XL and Pixel 5 owners? Yeah, your phones aren't supported at launch. You can find the supported device list here, but it pretty much covers most Samsung Galaxy phones, OnePlus flagships from the past few years, and the Pixel 3 and Pixel 6 lineups. On top of that, you'll need at least 11GB of storage dedicated to the game, with around 22GB of storage required for the actual download and install of the game. All of that out of the way? I think so. Let's talk about the port. According to Feral, we have reworked controls, designed to take advantage of the touchscreen, but if you want to play with a mouse and keyboard, that's completely supported so long as it's supported by your phone. In the settings menu for the game, you'll find multiple graphics settings -- Performance offers the best frame rate, Graphics offers the best visuals, and Battery Saver lowers battery power consumption. There's also options for aim input and control schemes. Basically, this port is no joke and was done the absolute right way. If memory serves me right, Feral has handled the porting of this game to other platforms and I've heard great things, so even though experiencing Alien: Isolation on a tiny phone screen isn't on my bucket list, I'm sure it'll run and look awesome. Have at it!

Google Play Link ($14.99)

https://youtu.be/DboBLkA5WRw

OnePlus Buds Z2 Bring Affordable ANC to Your Ears for $99

Kellen — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 07:33:11 +0000

OnePlus announced a fresh pair of true wireless earbuds today called the OnePlus Buds Z2. These are the follow-up to the budget-friendly OnePlus Buds Z, only we have a big upgrade this time - ANC or active noise cancellation. Overall, the OnePlus Buds Z2 offer a pretty nice package for $99. You get two color options (white or black), 40dB ANC, 11mm dynamic drivers, Bluetooth 5.2, 10m Bluetooth range, 2 microphones, IP55 sweat resistance, mono and stereo calls, single bud support from either bud, touch controls, and fast charging. The Buds Z2 take about 90 minutes to full charge, but you can grab 5 hours of use in 10 minutes. For battery life, they last about 5 hours on a single charge, with the case offering an additional 27 hours of use, with ANC on. If you turn ANC off, you'll see a few extra hours. And that's sort of the story here - $99 for a pair of buds that have all the features you need + ANC. Not bad, right? The OnePlus Buds Z2 are available today from OnePlus in white. The black option will arrive next year. To get a pair, OnePlus says that the first batch is reserved for members of their Red Cable Club, a free benefits program. You can join it here.

Shop OnePlus Buds Z2

If There's a Google Pixel Watch, These Would be the Watch Faces

Kellen — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 11:07:11 +0000

The rumors of a Google-made Pixel Watch have heated up from time to time, with Google even acknowledging that they were serious about making a smartwatch in 2016, only to cancel it because, well, it would have been terrible. Not making their first watch at that time was absolutely the right call. However, it's now 2021 (almost 2022), Wear OS 3 is here and new chips could help Google make a solid watch that Samsung has proven is possible. After reddit helped the world realize that Google had recently posted a new Wear OS 3 emulator build, folks have now dissected the new files and found hidden secrets that could show some of the first tastes of a Google Pixel Watch. Somewhere within the new Wear OS 3 emulator build, 9to5Google found a video that shows off a bunch of watch faces that are too numerous to not be a part of an upcoming watch. Seriously, why would Google make this many watch faces if they weren't targeted at an actual watch? Not only that, at least one shows the Fitbit logo that is likely a hint at Fitbit's Wear OS integration finally arriving.

The watch faces range from digital to analog setups, some of which have complications you can customize and others that are extremely minimal. The colors are all fun, the variety would be wonderful to have, and at least one (the digital with rotating minutes and seconds bezels) has been seen in supposedly-official renders of a Pixel Watch. So what should you take from all of this? I'd imagine that this is a sign that Google is gearing up to launch its first watch, whether that's a Pixel Watch or something Fitbit-branded. The time is actually right for Google to finally make their own watch, especially if they want to keep the platform alive, showcase their vision for Wear OS 3, and not have Samsung be the only important player going forward. The only question now is - when would they release it? Make those guesses.

Pixel 6 Pro Still Believed to Get Face Unlock, But Not the Pixel 6

Tim — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 10:50:23 +0000

Many were surprised when the new Pixel 6 lineup launched without a Face Unlock feature, as it was believed that Google would include an additional sort of biometric security beyond just a fingerprint reader on the phones. When we found out there'd by no Face Unlock at launch, we began hearing reports that Google would include it in a Pixel Feature Drop. As we all know now, Face Unlock was not included in December's update. So wtf is going on here? Thanks to digging done by 9to5Google, code hidden in the Android 12L beta continues to point to a Pixel device featuring both fingerprint unlocking and facial recognition unlocking. The only problem is, at least for some of us, is that the code is only referenced for Raven (aka Pixel 6 Pro) and not Oriole (aka Pixel 6). Why would this be the case? As far as anyone knows, there is no real difference between the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro's front-facing sensors, with exception to the selfie camera itself. The Pixel 6 Pro features a 11.1MP shooter with 94° FoV (field of view) versus a 8MP shooter with 84° FoV on Pixel 6. Beyond that, they should be nearly identical as far as sensors go. The code also specifically states that this is an "experimental" feature. That's not really surprising, but likely why it has yet to be made available to the public. If it's janky, Google shouldn't release it. The last thing we need is for every tech blog to need another reason to hate on Google phones. *eye roll* Guess we'll simply start hyping up the Pixel 7 and its Face Unlock feature? // 9to5Google

The Galaxy Nexus Launched 10 Years Ago Today

Kellen — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 10:00:32 +0000

Yes, time still flies and you are OK in being shocked at the Galaxy Nexus being the phone we all obsessed over a full 10 years ago. On December 15, 2011, Verizon and Google and Samsung released the Galaxy Nexus 4G LTE, a mostly terrible phone that we couldn't get enough of. The saga of the Galaxy Nexus (or "Nexus Prime") is a lengthy one that we could go on for days about. Instead of putting you through that, in short, I mostly remember it because the leaks were heavy, as they always are with Google-related stuff, but you may recall that Google and Samsung had even teamed up initially for a co-branded Unpacked event called the "Google Episode." That event never happened and was pushed out of respect after the death of Steve Jobs. Google then announced it in China at an event a couple of weeks later, kicking off another period of leaks around an official release date, most importantly over Verizon's 4G LTE version.

Once we got to the arrival of Verizon's version 10 years ago today, the occasion was so important for a number of reasons. Things like it being the first Nexus phone on the biggest carrier, which meant faster updates from Google with less bloatware and an unlocked bootloader were big deals at the time. Android was still so young that we were very much living through carrier-branded hell back then, with unwanted apps, horrible skins, and a feeling like no phone truly belonged to us, even if we paid hundreds for it up front. Some of the internal leaked info we had for Verizon's Galaxy Nexus referred to it as a phone with "no OEM customization," in case you were wondering how important that bit was. Of course, it was also the first with Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich." Back then, Nexus phones from Google still ran what we would consider to be "stock" Android, unlike the Google Pixel phones, which now have a skin like any other Android phone. The unlocked bootloader led many into the ROM and developer arena for the first time (or brought them back to it), where customizing your phone was so easy and fun. Hell, we even ran a series called "Custom ROM Friday" back then, because that was life on Android. Customization aside, the Galaxy Nexus also had plenty of firsts for an Android phone. The 720p AMOLED display with a subtle faux curve ("Contoured Display") was a big deal, as were the software navigation buttons from Ice Cream Sandwich, Face Unlock, beaming over NFC, and the stupidly fast "zero shutter" camera it came equipped with. Speaking of that camera, it was not a good one. While it was fast, at 5MP and without the fancy processing we have in phones today, it was not a phone you'd take pictures with that could be proudly shared. In our review, we mentioned it being worse than a DROID RAZR phone, which is...lol.

The battery life because of 4G LTE was also insanely bad. I'm actually a bit shook at re-reading our results there, where we claimed that enabling 4G LTE on the phone and turning WiFi off only gave us about 6 hours of use. Think about that for a second. Dead phones by noon were a reality in the early days of 4G LTE. LTE was so bad that Google completely ditched it the following year for the Nexus 4. Still, the Galaxy Nexus is one of those phones that I always remember when looking back at the history of Android. For a lot of folks, it was their first new phone after finally giving up on the original Motorola DROID. It was the result of a huge partnership between Samsung and Google. In fact, it was the last Nexus phone those two made together. It took Android as an OS to new heights with Android 4.0. It was Verizon's first Nexus phone! So many of us lived with the Galaxy Nexus because all of the other offerings from Verizon were so bad. That doesn't mean the Galaxy Nexus was good, I think it's more of a reflection on how rough Android was in 2011, probably in large part because it was still early days for LTE. The Galaxy Nexus is 10 years old. Cheers for the reminder, Richard!

DEAL: Both SHIELD TV Models Get $20 Discount, Now Start at $129

Tim — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 15:24:27 +0000

For what's assumed to be a limited time, buyers can snag either the SHIELD TV or SHIELD TV Pro from NVIDIA at Amazon and Best Buy for $20 off the usual prices, bringing the Android TV-powered box to a starting price of just $129. Having used the SHIELD TV every day since launch, I can say that the $129 price is super solid. With the SHIELD TV, you're getting the SHIELD Remote, Dolby Vision Atmos, NVIDIA's AI upscaling goodness, and the overall awesomeness that is Android TV. In my opinion, the platform keeps improving. With the $179 SHIELD TV Pro, you're getting 2x USB ports, more RAM, plus the built-in ability to use the box as a Plex Media Server. Honestly, you can't go wrong with either of these. Far as I can tell, both will be delivered ahead of Christmas, so if you're interested, follow the links below.

Buy Links

SHIELD TV ($129): Amazon | Best Buy
SHIELD TV Pro ($179): Amazon | Best Buy

Wear OS 3 Gets a First Look Without Samsung's Skin

Kellen — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:59:57 +0000

Wear OS 3 is still very much a Samsung exclusive version of Google's wearable OS, where only the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic have it on-device. Google has suggested that other watchmakers will be able to put Wear OS 3 on their own devices in 2022, but up until now, we really only know what it looks like on Samsung's watches with One UI on top. This week, a reddit user discovered an updated Wear OS 3 build posted by Google and then shared screenshots from it in emulator form. It's very much a "stock" experience, if you want to call it that, without a heavy skin, but could be what we'll see from companies like Fossil or Mobvoi unless they take the Samsung approach. Since this is still Android 11, we aren't seeing the wild Android 12 Material You experience that we have seen on Pixel phones. It still comes off very bubbly and round, though, with larger fonts in areas we most definitely are seeing in Android 12. Colors are also very distinct, there are lots of gradients, and you can sort of see where this UI is headed.

This build was apparently built on November 17, so it's quite new. But keep in mind that it could be months and months and months before a watch uses this and that could (and hopefully does) lead to further improvements and changes. Nothing here strikes me as a big deal.

READ: This Wear OS 3 situation really sucks

// @MishaalRahman

Here's Everything New in Android 12 (Go Edition), Coming in 2022

Tim — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 10:00:43 +0000

Google detailed Android 12 (Go Edition) this morning, saying that it will be available to devices starting in 2022. Wait a tick, that's right around the corner! We must be getting close to official release. Now that we know when it's coming, Google provided us a feature breakdown, telling us about all of the new things that make it exciting. Below, we'll go over the new features. Obviously, I think it's safe to say that most of us won't ever get to experience Android 12 (Go Edition), but for those that do, it's looking like a sweet upgrade. On that note, Google detailed that Android (Go Edition) currently has 200 million active users overall.

What's New in Android 12 (Go Edition)

Speed Increase Android (Go Edition) is all about streamlining every aspect of the OS, allowing it to operate quicker and more smoothly, since it's designed specifically to run on devices without high-end specs. Google says we can expect a 30% increase in app launch speed, along with Android 12's fancy new splash screens. It'll be up to developers to implement that splash screen API into their apps, but already I've seen it quite a bit on my Pixel 6. More Battery Life and Storage To help users get more battery life out of their device, Android 12 (Go Edition) includes App Hibernation, a feature was first targeted as Android 11 devices. This feature resets runtime permissions when an app isn't used for an extended period. For those in need of more storage, the Files Go app will allow users to recover files within 30 days, allowing you to delete unnecessary files to free up space whenever you may need it.

More Intelligent When looking at anything on your phone, you can quickly access tools, such as Google Translate and Listen (great for having news read to you), from the Recent Apps UI. Nearby Share, Guest Profiles

New: Save on data usage by sharing apps directly offline with nearby devices using Nearby Share and Google Play.
New: Guest profiles are now available directly on the lock screen so you can easily switch to a guest profile before sharing your device, and reset it once they’re done.

Privacy Dashboard The Privacy Dashboard will also be included in Android 12 (Go Edition), allowing users to get an overview of their onboard privacy, as well as quick controls over things like microphone and camera access. On Android 12, when an app is using your microphone or camera, a privacy indicator pops up in the top corner of your display. This same feature is coming to Go Edition. Google also notes that it has added approximate location permissions so you can limit apps to only your approximate location instead of a precise one.

As soon as we have a concrete release timeframe, we'll let you all know. // Google NOTE: Original article said 200 daily active users, but the correct number is just 200 million active users.

Galaxy Z Fold 3 is $800 Off With One Little Catch

Kellen — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 07:42:12 +0000

Today might be the best day for you to finally pull the trigger on Samsung's best foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 3. Typically priced at $1,800, you can grab one from Best Buy for $800 off, dropping its price to $999. There is one little requirement, but I'm not sure most of you will mind it. To get one at this crazy price, Best Buy is forcing you to "activate today," which is their way of attaching your purchase to a carrier that likely leads to a bigger payout for them. They do this with most phones, often discounting them by $50 or $100. $800 is a really big discount. At the moment, Best Buy has the unlocked Galaxy Z Fold 3 in Phantom Green, Black, and Silver in-stock with quick delivery, depending on your location. There's a good chance your local store could deliver it today, in fact. What does it mean to "activate today" vs. "activate later?" Again, it attaches the purchase to your carrier, likely as an upgrade on your account. It could lock you in to a contract with that carrier or require you to pay an upgrade fee. At $800 off, it could all be worth it, but you need to decide how you want your smartphone future to look and with which carrier.

READ: Galaxy Z Fold 3 review

Best Buy is offering the deal with Verizon and AT&T activation as upgrades. If you want to go through T-Mobile, you'll save an extra $100 (so $900 total), but T-Mobile is only doing it if you add a new line it seems. Best Buy Deal Link

YouTube TV Could Lose Disney, ESPN in a Few Days

Kellen — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 15:49:22 +0000

A couple of months ago, Google and YouTube TV informed subscribers that they could soon lose NBC and all of the channels that fall under NBCUniversal. They eventually reached a deal with NBC to keep their channels on the streaming service and no price increase came with it. Now, Google and Disney are going at it in a similar fashion and the timeline for when YouTube TV subscribers could lose access to Disney, ESPN, and ABC is as short as the last time. In a blog post and series of Tweets today, YouTube TV said that they are "working with Disney to continue carrying Disney-owned channels, including ESPN and your local ABC station." However, their current deal with Disney runs out on December 17 (in 4 days!), so if they are unable to reach a new "fair" deal in the coming days, all of the Disney-owned channels would go away. Of course, if that were to happen, YouTube TV is promising a $15 decrease on the monthly price you would pay, dropping it from $65/mo to $50/mo. I'm not sure many of you would be happy to lose those networks, though, especially ABC and ESPN during the holiday NCAA Bowl season and all of the other content they bring. Here's the list of channels you could lose:

Your local ABC channel
ABC News Live
Disney Channel
Disney Junior
Disney XD
Freeform
FX
FXX
FXM
National Geographic
National Geographic Wild
ESPN
ESPN2
ESPN3 (by authentication to the ESPN app)
ESPNU
ESPNEWS
SEC Network
ACC Network

Google and YouTube TV are selling the same story they did with NBC, where they are supposedly only asking that Disney "treat YouTube TV like any other TV provider – by offering [them] the same rates that services of a similar size pay." It's hard to tell if these two will reach a deal, but Google and NBC did before all of those networks disappeared. We'll keep you updated on this one.

Pixel 6's Big December Update is Now Available

Kellen — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 13:13:08 +0000

After a week delay, it is now time for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro to get their big December update from Google. This is the update that not only brings in Pixel Feature Drop goodies, it also fixes dozens and dozens of bugs from Android 12's initial release. This is a really important update that you'll want to grab right away. The update will rollout with a few different builds that will hit your phone depending on carrier or country. For most of our readers, you'll see SQ1D.211205.017 as the US carrier build. Other builds to be aware of are SQ1D.211205.016.A1 (Canada and TW) and SQ1D.211205.016.A4 (EMEA carriers).

UPDATE 12/15: Google added build SQ1D.211205.016.A5 for AU carriers today.

To check for the update, assuming you don't want to manually flash it with a factory image or OTA file, you'll head into Settings>System>System update and tap the "Check for update" button.

Pixel 6 December update fixes so many bugs

What's fixed here? You can see the full list of changes from our post last week, but some big ones to be aware of are:

Fix for issue occasionally preventing audio playback from speaker in certain conditions
Fix for issue preventing Now Playing to search for unrecognized music
General improvements for battery & thermal performance in certain conditions
General improvements for fingerprint sensor stability & performance
Fix for distorted audio over Bluetooth in certain scenarios
General image quality improvements in camera preview/capture
General improvements for camera stability & performance
General improvements for auto-focus response in certain capture modes
General improvements for color consistency in viewfinder preview
Fix for issue causing blank viewfinder preview in certain conditions
Add additional example images for display color options in Settings
General improvements for Adaptive brightness response in certain conditions
Fix for occasional screen flicker during brightness adjustment
Fix for issue preventing Smooth Display to switch display refresh rate in certain conditions
Fix for issue causing Play store app installation to pause indefinitely in certain conditions
General improvements for network connection stability & performance
Fix for issue preventing lift to wake and double tap to wake in certain conditions
Fix for issue preventing Always-on-display from turning on in certain conditions
Fix for issue causing unexpected haptics or vibration in certain conditions
Improvements for Internet tile in Quick Settings
Fix for issue causing persistent app media controls in notification shade in certain conditions

And trust me, that's only a tiny portion of what Google fixed. The full list of bugs that have been squashed might be the biggest we have ever seen in a monthly update from Google. It's obvious that Android 12 brought forth major changes to the platform that Google is still trying to get right. This update should help with a good portion of the bugs you have been experiencing.

Pixel Feature Drop too!

As I mentioned earlier, this month's update also includes Pixel Feature Drop goodies, so that means new features to check out. This is kind of a snoozy feature drop, if I'm being honest, but Snapchat users will like it, Now Playing is getting sweet new controls, Ultra-wideband file sharing is coming to the Pixel 6 Pro, and you might be able to use your phone as car key. Again, the update is arriving as early as today. If you aren't seeing it, you could always flash the update manually to get it quicker. It's not a difficult process, but can be frustrating if you haven't done it before. Important links:

The New Pixel Stand Ditches Pre-Order Status

Kellen — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 11:42:38 +0000

With the launch of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google introduced a new Pixel Stand for faster wireless charging with a new look. The new Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) wasn't available right away, though, but did eventually go up for pre-order. After being in pre-order status for several weeks, it is now generally available from Google and its retail partners. The new Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) costs $79, comes in a two-tone green and white colorway, supports wireless charging up to 23W for Pixel phones, and has a fan to keep things cool as it attempts those speeds. The Pixel Stand also tries to give you smart home controls, easy access to Google Assistant, and act as a smart alarm clock, making it more than just a wireless charger. Is it worth $79? Like the original model, that is a steep, steep price to pay for a wireless charger, even if it can trigger some additional software features. For the most part, I'd tell you that, "No, it isn't worth it." Your best bet is to wait for it to go on sale in the coming months, which the old one did often. Or, well, you could splurge since it's the holidays and enjoy the faster speeds. If you buy the new Pixel Stand today, you should have it this week. Shop new Pixel Stand:

Galaxy Watch 4 is $50 Off Again, Plus You Get a Free $10 Gift Card

Kellen — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 07:36:31 +0000

The price of the Galaxy Watch 4 from Samsung has jumped up and down from the minute it launched earlier this year. We've seen deals as big as $70 off and then at $40 off, but today it's back to $50 off with an added bonus tossed in to sweeten this last minute promo. If you buy a Galaxy Watch 4 from Best Buy, they'll give you an instant $50 off and a free $10 Best Buy gift card to spend on other stuff. At that discount, you are getting a Galaxy Watch 4 for as little as $199 with an extra $10 to go buy something else, like a replacement band or some snacks in Best Buy's ever-changing, super awkward checkout line. The gift card will be sent to you as an e-giftcard. If you haven't read our Galaxy Watch 4 review, you might want to. This is a big deal of a watch, as it brought Samsung back to Wear OS and should help revive a platform that Google had basically left for dead. Performance is excellent, Samsung's solid One UI skin is here with Wear OS underneath, it'll track all the health stuff, and most importantly, it has Google Play and Google apps, which older Samsung watches lacked. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is $40 off too, if that's the watch you have been eyeing. It does not appear to have to $10 bonus, though.

Shop Galaxy Watch 4 deals at Best Buy

Play Your Android Games on PC, Coming in 2022

Tim — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 10:48:47 +0000

Announced via the annual Game Awards ceremony, Google says that coming soon in 2022, mobile gamers will be able to play their favorite mobile games on PC via the release of Google Play Games on PC. From what's detailed, this Google Play Games app will feature all of your same information and cloud saves, allowing you to take your same gaming session from your phone straight to the PC. That should be pretty sweet for you RPG and other genre lovers out there. As soon as we have more details, we'll let you know. Right now, all we can do is pencil in "2022." https://twitter.com/thegameawards/status/1469162458019414020

Google Photos Gets Updated Multi-Select UI in Latest Stable Build

Tim — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 08:52:26 +0000

Hitting Android phones this week is a change in the Google Photos app that I'm loving so far. The change blends perfectly with Android 12 and Material You, so I'm hoping to see more changes like this pop up in other Google apps. Available in build 5.70.0.413477203, Google is changing up the multi photo select UI. Previously, a user would long press on a photo and then controls/actions would display in the top right of the app. After this update, the controls (Share, Add to, Trash, Order Photos, etc.) pop up in the bottom of the app as part of a whole new pop-up tab. You can also pull the tab up and show quick share contacts, plus controls for quickly tossing photos into specific albums. This may not seem like the biggest change, but it's a big update for the actual workflow of the app if you're the type to handle multiple photos at once. Have you got it yet? // Android Police

Only a Few More Days for That December Update, Pixel 6 Owners (Updated)

Kellen — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 07:39:04 +0000

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners likely weren't happy to see that this month's Android update for their phones wouldn't arrive alongside the other Pixel phones. A week delay, even if only a week, is never a fun thing, especially if you just bought your new high-end phone with the promise of updates-before-everyone-else. Don't worry, Pixel 6 friends, you only have a few more days to go before all of your bugs are fixed. Google already told us earlier in the week that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro wouldn't get the December patch until "next week." They didn't specify which day next week, but it seemed obvious that it would be on Monday, since that's Google's favorite day to push updates. According to a post on the Japanese Pixel Support forum, a Googler said that December 13 would indeed be the day that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro would see their updates. That post has since removed that note, but we captured it and you can view it at the cached version of the post here.

Mad about the delay and are under the assumption that Google never does this? Haha...no. Google did the same thing with the Pixel 4 line right after it was released. While we wish they would be more open in communicating why there are these weird delays, it's a thing that happens. When we see these delays, they often roll this way for a month or two at launch and then settle into being on time going forward. Once Monday rolls around and that update shows up, prepare for a big one. Not only is this a Pixel Feature Drop month, the list of bugs that Google is fixing here is pretty intense. There are dozens and dozens of fixes, many of which are targeted at the Pixel 6 line. Once this update blesses your device, it might run like a brand new phone again. Monday is coming.

UPDATE 12/13 10:20AM: Well, today was supposed to be the day, but Google has not yet posted builds for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Maybe that December 13 date was wrong and that's why it was removed. If we do get updates, we'll be sure to let you know.

// @MishaalRahman

Verizon Ends Year With More Super Fast 5G Than Expected, Have You Found It?

Kellen — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 13:38:01 +0000

Verizon decided years ago to go all-in on 5G mmW, the fastest type of 5G that they could pop up on a little tower of a corner block in a city and demonstrate stupidly fast speedtests through in order to sell us on a 5G future. I'm still not sure they made the right bet there, as T-Mobile has since jumped out to an enormous 5G lead using (actually good) mid-band 5G they acquired from Sprint, while Verizon and AT&T have had to switch their focus and efforts onto playing catch-up in the coming years with C-Band spectrum. The plan is to push quickly forward with their C-Band goods in 2022, and assuming they can get the Federal Aviation Administration on board, that will ultimately lead to a 5G network you and I will finally care about. For now, though, they really only have 5G mmW to talk about, even after all these years. Thankfully for Verizon, they will end the year with more 5G mmW coverage than expected, almost doubling their previous two years combined. They now claim to have 5G mmW in parts of 87 cities and have seen "more than [a] 750%" increase in data use over it. I'm really just curious if any of you have found their 5G mmW or "5G Ultra Wideband" yet? 87 cities certainly isn't a ton, especially since we're talking about coverage in parts of those cities. You likely have a phone that can connect to this network, but again, you'd have to live in an area within a city that happens to have 5G mmW. I live in Portland, which is a decent-sized city (25th-most populated in the US) and it is not one of Verizon's 5G mmW cities, at least officially. I've certainly seen flashes of their "5G UW" logo around town and run some incredible speedtests, but I was in specific situations, like at a Timbers game in the stadium that Verizon must have 5G mmW towers around, yet doesn't want to announce.

And just being straight here, pulling numbers like I did above was wild to see. That's the type of speed we were promised early on, yet never found from all of the "nationwide" 5G that was really just repurposed 4G LTE. If you were able to pull those speeds on any sort of regular basis, 5G really would be game-changing. So again, I'm really just curious if this expansion from Verizon has meant a 5G UW connection for you? If so, has it made any sort of impact to how you use your phone or did you just giggle at speedtests like I did and then move on?

Google Says '911 Bug' Caused by Microsoft Teams, Fix Inbound

Tim — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 12:25:29 +0000

Google is asking anyone running Android 10+ on their phone that has Microsoft's Teams app installed, but isn't logged in and actively using the app, to uninstall it right away. As discovered recently, there's a bug that is making it impossible to call 911 for some users who have Teams installed, but aren't logged into the app. Obviously, that could lead to serious issues. As detailed by Google on reddit in response to the original complaint, the company states, "We determined that the issue was being caused by unintended interaction between the Microsoft Teams app and the underlying Android operating system. Because this issue impacts emergency calling, both Google and Microsoft are heavily prioritizing the issue, and we expect a Microsoft Teams app update to be rolled out soon." Expanding on that last bit, it's expected that Microsoft will release a fix for this in early January. Looking at this from the outside, it's a bit odd that an app that isn't logged into and hasn't been granted any permissions on the system level could interfere with emergency calling. While this sorta thing is above my pay grade, all I'm saying is, that's odd. Google notes that it is only aware of one user report related to the occurrence of this bug, meaning it's not a widespread issue, but you should still take caution if you're a Teams user. // 9to5Google

Surprise YouTube TV Channel Additions Include Game Show Network and getTV

Tim — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:01:10 +0000

Still not formally announced, it appears that YouTube TV is getting two new channels this week: The Game Show Network and GetTV. I can confirm the addition of these channels, as I checked my own lineup and saw them there, with an episode of America Says playing on GSN and Good Times currently on getTV. DYNOMITE! We'll update this post once YouTube TV makes the move official, as they may have something else in store beyond just the two new channels. We shall see. Go enjoy yourselves. https://twitter.com/GameShowNetwork/status/1468652827379572736 Cheers Brent!

Google Photos Improves Cinematic Photos, Rolls Out New Widget

Kellen — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 08:30:03 +0000

Google Photos is one of the best apps to casually open around this time of the year. Not only do we have holidays and the end of the year coming up, we often get together more frequently with friends and family, leading to more pictures of those we care about the most. Google Photos takes those and turns them into fabulous memories to help us relive the good times, assuming we're still capable of having those. For this week, Google is pushing out at least one new feature and reminding us about some others they've recently pushed. Remember Cinematic Photos, the automatically created images that look like they moving parts and sort of come alive? Google is improving those those with machine learning, where it's attempting to fill-in parts of the background and giving the virtual camera more freedom to move. That should lead to less weird-looking cinematics. Pretty sweet. Here are some other Google Photos tips to remember:

The new Google Photos widget for People & Pets that was announced last week should be rolled out by now. I checked this morning do indeed have it (above).
Don't forget that Google also added event Memories to the top carousel in Google Photos last week and that you can control what shows up in there.
Finally, Google Photos shouldn't show you everything and there are controls to hide photos of people, pets, and time periods. To adjust those, head into settings>Memories and jump into the "Hide people & pets" or "Hide dates" sections to adjust those.

Take some pictures today. // Google

Instagram, In Chronological Order, is Making a Return

Tim — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 08:27:24 +0000

I haven't been on Instagram too much lately, but if the photo-sharing app sticks to its announced plan, I could see myself giving it a look. According to a tweet from Instagram's comms team, the app is going to bring back the chronological feed option in early 2022, as a way of letting users choose what they see and how they see it. I know, a totally novel concept. As you can view below, Instagram specifically says that they're working on an option that allows users to see posts from people they follow in chronological order. https://twitter.com/InstagramComms/status/1468707110036852750 While this is fun news, Instagram cleared up any notion that it would be automatically switching everyone back to a chronological feed. It'll be up to the users. Instagram says, "We want to be clear that we’re creating new options — providing people with more choices so they can decide what works best for them — not switching everyone back to a chronological feed. You can expect more on this early next year!" That totally works for me, Instagram.

How's Life With the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro?

Kellen — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 16:04:34 +0000

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are almost two months old now and that should mean you've had plenty of time to assess your new device, assuming you bought one of the two. You all read my thoughts after 30 days with each last week, so it's your turn to weigh-in with your own evaluations of Google's most important phones to date. I can't imagine many of you agree with my take that the Pixel 6 Pro is just too freakin' big and Google would have made a better play by offering up two sizes of the Pro instead of two big phones, one of which has it all and the other that has important cuts. Or maybe you do? Like the early days of me calling out curved displays, I get the feeling that people are tiring of the tablet phone experience and wouldn't mind a phone that's more manageable.

READ: 30 days with the Pixel 6 Pro - I didn't make it

The rest of the Pixel 6 Pro is so good (cameras, display, and performance) that maybe you are living with its enormous size and curved edges. Can't say I blame you for enjoying what Google has given us this year. For the Pixel 6, it's hard to not think this is the phone of the year. I get that it doesn't offer the full camera experience from the Pro, there is a touch less RAM, and a 90Hz display instead of 120Hz, but at $599, there's just too much good going on. It seems like the easiest phone in the world to recommend to people who don't have a big budget, yet want incredible Android software in its best form. So tell me, how is life with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro? Cameras living up to the hype? Battery life good or meh? Would you rather have had a smaller Pro option? Is Android 12 the greatest thing ever or is it too cartoonish for you? Let's talk.

DEAL: Big Savings on Anker Life Q30, Q35 Headphones Right Now (Up to $40 Off!)

Tim — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 11:55:12 +0000

For a limited time on Amazon, Anker is hosting a solid sale on its Soundcore brand's Life Q30 and Life Q35 headphones. Typically priced at $79, the Q30 cans can be had for $59, while the $130 Q35 cans are currently priced at only $90. Both models feature Active Noise Cancellation, up to 40 hours of playback battery life, Hi-Res sound, and what should be a very comfortable wear experience. The Q30 comes in either Black, Blue, or Pink, while the Q35 is available in Obsidian Blue or Pink. And yes, it appears that as of right now, all of these headphones would arrive before the holidays. Follow the links below if you're needing some more stocking stuffers. And since we're on the topic, check out the official Droid Life Holiday Gift Guide for 2021!

Amazon Links: Life Q30 ($59) | Life Q35 ($90)

Android 12L's First Beta is Here to Play With

Kellen — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 10:00:24 +0000

Android 12L in beta form is here! The update for Android 12 that Google is calling a "feature drop" for large screens has arrived for more people to play with, including Pixel phones. This is a big step towards Android 12L going stable early next year, when we expect more foldables and new tablets to take advantage of it. For this first Android 12L beta, Google is really trying to remind everyone that this is meant for foldables and big screens. Most of the changes are targeted at screens that can separate content into two sides. For example, a 2-paned notification and quick settings area, better multi-app situations, a taskbar, etc. You can read more on the changes in Android 12L here. Unfortunately, there really aren't any devices available that can truly use 12L outside of the Lenovo Tab P12 Pro, a tablet that isn't even available in the US. Also, Lenovo and Google have only made a preview build available for that, not this first beta. If you really want the tablet or foldable experience on Android 12L, you'll need to setup an emulator in Android Studio (instructions). That said, Google is making this available to Pixel phones and said today that they "welcome you to try out the latest improvements in this feature drop." What improvements? We're about to find out.

Install Android 12L on your Pixel phone

Release date: December 8, 2021 Build: S2B1.211112.006 Emulator support: x86 (64-bit), ARM (v8-A) Security patch level: December 2021 Google Play services: 21.45.15

Own a Pixel phone and want to try Android 12L beta? You can! Again, we aren't sure just yet what kinds of changes you'll find, but Google did tell us that 12L would be available in the Android Beta Program for supported Pixel phones. Today is the day to join that program and give it a shot. To join the Android Beta Program and enroll your phone for 12L, hit this link. NOTE: Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are listed as "coming soon" to the beta. Don't want to deal with the Android Beta Program? We have factory image and OTA files too. Currently, there are files for the Pixel 3a, Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a.

Downloads: Factory image | OTA

Let's dive into Android 12L!

Galaxy S10 Family Receives November Security Patch

Tim — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 09:24:29 +0000

Verizon and Samsung are now shipping out the November security patch to owners of the Galaxy S10 lineup. That means all three devices, which is the Galaxy S10, Galaxy S10+, and Galaxy S10e. Nothing else besides the security patch is mentioned in the changelog, but if you happen to spot anything different, don't hesitate to let us know about it.

Updated Software Build Numbers

Galaxy S10: G973USQU6GUJ3
Galaxy S10+: G975USQU6GUJ3
Galaxy S10e: G970USQU6GUJ3

Happy flashing! // Verizon [2] [3]

Google and Roku Reach Deal to Keep YouTube Around

Kellen — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 07:14:31 +0000

The months-long public battle between Google and Roku has come to an end this week, a day before Google was set to remove YouTube from the streaming TV platform. With an agreement reached, not only will YouTube remain on Roku, YouTube TV should return as well. In a statement provided to The Verge, a Roku spokesperson said that the two companies have come to a "multi-year extension" for YouTube and YouTube TV in what they'd like to describe as a "positive development for our shared customers." Yeah, I'd say so - imagine wanting a streaming service that doesn't have YouTube? You probably remember how this all started, back in April with each accusing the other of being a slimy corporate greed meanie. The YouTube TV app was removed by Roku at one point, to which Google followed up by creating a work-around that let users watch the service through the regular YouTube app. It was fun and also straight silly. Anyways, an agreement is here and Roku users can keep YouTube while getting YouTube TV back in an official capacity too.

Here are the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Colors You Can Get by Xmas

Kellen — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 14:10:08 +0000

Buying a Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro is not an easy thing to do at the moment. After a struggle during pre-orders to fulfill orders, we have mostly seen retailers like Best Buy sell completely out of most unlocked models and not restock in time for holiday shoppers. As far as we can tell, the only spot we're seeing much stock at all is through the Google Store, which happens to be showing decent shipping times for select colors of each phone. If you were looking to buy a Pixel 6 (review) or Pixel 6 Pro (review) during this holiday shopping season, these are the models Google currently has available and the earliest dates you should get them by, assuming you don't mind paying a bit extra for shipping. Don't worry, though, some of these are showing arrival times without upgrading the shipping, but I'm not sure you should trust free shipping from the Google Store these days.

Unlocked Pixel 6 Pro stock:

Stormy Black: 128GB or 256GB by Dec 14-15
Cloudy White: 128GB by Dec 21-22; 256GB by Jan 11-12
Sorta Sunny: 128GB by Dec 21-22
Shop Google Pixel 6 Pro

Unlocked Pixel 6 stock:

Stormy Black: 128GB by Dec 21-22; 256GB by Dec 28-29
Sorta Seafoam: 128GB by Dec 28-29; 256GB by Dec 29-30
Kinda Coral: 128GB by Dec 15-16
Shop Google Pixel 6

Look, if I'm buying the Pixel 6, I'm aiming right at that Kinda Coral. It has been soldout for weeks at Best Buy and was the hardest to get at launch. If I'm buying the Pixel 6 Pro, then it's gotta be the Cloudy White model and I'm just praying to the shipping gods they do their jobs. Oh and you might want to hurry on these.

Chromecast With Google TV Gets a Decent-Sized Update

Kellen — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 13:36:29 +0000

A fresh update is rolling out today to the Chromecast With Google TV, Google's ridiculously priced dongle that brings you all the smart TV goods in a tiny package at a tiny price. The update carries a big weight and a semi-new security patch. Labeled as Google TV build QTS1.210311.036, the update arrives at 158MB with an October 2021 security patch. It also brings storage optimizations and management improvements, as well as improvements to help with HDR HLG-to-HDR10, Dolby Vision playback, and DRM video decoding. There are other unspecified bug fixes and performance tweaks too.

This is our Chromecast with Google TV review

Google TV update QTS1.210311.036:

Security update: Android security patch level updated to October 2021
Storage optimizations and management improvements
Platform improvements to help some apps with: HDR HLG playing instead of converting to HDR10, Dolby Vision playback, and DRM Video decoding performance improvements
Additional bug fixes and performance improvements

The update is live now if you check for it by heading into Settings>About>System update.

Verizon Galaxy S21 Gets Another November Update, Note 10 Grabs December

Kellen — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 09:08:40 +0000

If you own a Samsung phone, an update always feels right around the corner. For owners of the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy Note 10 lines, today brings you around that corner to freshness. For the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra, Samsung appears to still be doing a lot of bug fixing after pushing the big Android 12 update. This week, they are pushing yet another update that still keeps the November security patch on the device, rather than the new December patch. The changelogs simply suggest that there are "performance improvements" here and not much else. The new builds are:

Galaxy S21: SP1A.210812.016.G991USQU4BUKF
Galaxy S21+: SP1A.210812.016.G996USQU4BUKF
Galaxy S21 Ultra: SP1A.210812.016.G998USQU4BUKF

As for the Galaxy Note 10 and Galaxy Note 10+, these older phones are indeed getting the new December patch that Google only released to Pixel phones yesterday. For changelogs, they only say that this is a security patch, which makes sense since these phones probably won't get anything big for a while. The new builds are:

Galaxy Note 10: RP1A.200720.012.N970USQS7FUKA
Galaxy Note 10+: RP1A.200720.012.N975USQS7FUKA
Galaxy Note 10+ 5G: RP1A.200720.012.N976VVRS7FUKA

To check for these new updates on your S21 or Note 10, head into Settings>System updates>Check for system updates.

Google Pay on Wear OS Now Available in More Countries

Tim — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 08:25:35 +0000

Google announced this week the expansion of Google Pay on Wear OS into new countries, bringing the total number of supported markets up to 40. Google highlights a few of the newly supported countries as Israel, Kazakhstan, and the Netherlands. Shoutout to the Dutch. So long as your smartwatch is running Wear OS 2.0 or newer, ensure you have Google Pay downloaded onto your smartwatch, then follow the setup process. It should be rather straightforward. Very nice. // Google

Pixel Buds A-Series Update Brings Much Needed Bass Controls and Better Device Switching

Tim — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 13:49:01 +0000

Google is pushing an update to the Pixel Buds A-Series earbuds, which is great timing considering many folks who purchased a new Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro should have a pair of these earbuds for absolutely free. According to Google, we can expect three major things in this update: newly added bass controls, loudness compensation, as well as improved device switching. Check out the detailed list of changes below.

What's New

Customize your bass: With any Android 6.0+ device, you can open the Pixel Buds app and use the slider to adjust bass from -1 to +4, giving you twice the bass range you have now. You can quickly adjust to increase the bass level by 4 levels with options of multiple magnitudes, or decrease the bass level compared to the current default setting.
Loudness compensation: Improve bass and treble at lower volume levels with a toggle on or off in the Sound Settings.
Improved device switching: Pixel Buds A-Series will search and connect to the second to last connected device when undocked from the charging case, if the last connected host device is unavailable.

Personally, the bass controls are supremely needed. If anything, that's where the Pixel Buds A-Series don't deliver, but hopefully with this update I'll be able to crank a bit more low-end out of these buds. According to Google, these new features will be delivered in firmware update Version 282 and require you to grant the “Nearby devices” permission. To grant this permission, open the Pixel Buds app and follow the prompts. Select “Allow” when asked “Allow Pixel Buds to find, connect to, and determine the relative position of nearby devices?”. // Google

YouTube Music's 2021 Recap is Ready for You

Tim — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 13:34:15 +0000

Spotify has its Unwrapped each year for users, so of course, YouTube Music wants its users to have something fun, too. With that said, the YouTube Music 2021 Recap has arrived, turning your music listening stats into a fun and shareable experience. Just like Spotify's Unwrapped, YouTube Music's Recap takes your music stats and lets you dive deep into what it says about you. You'll be able to see what your favorite songs were this year, favorite genres, and all of that jazz.

Starting today, music fans can tap into their 2021 Recap landing page on the YouTube Music app and scroll through to see their personalized stats (top artists, songs, music videos, and playlists) from this year. To celebrate our dedicated community of music lovers, we’ve even included top playlists made by our very own YouTube Music listeners!

Looking in my YouTube Music app, I'm not seeing the Recap yet, so this is already off to a good start. Hopefully it comes soon. Anyone here seeing it? // YouTube

Google Fixed a Massive List of Bugs on Pixel Phones This Month

Kellen — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:38:09 +0000

In addition to pushing out a Pixel Feature Drop and a regularly scheduled Android security patch today, Google is also using this month's update to fix a massive list of bugs and other changes to Android 12 for its still-supported Pixel phones. There are fixes and tweaks to everything from apps and audio to Bluetooth, biometrics, WiFi, the cameras, displays, sensors, and more. A few of the changes that caught my eye are all of the battery and charging improvements, more fingerprint reader improvements on Pixel 6, several camera adjustments on Pixel 6, Adaptive Brightness response time increases, improvements to Quick Tap, fixes for always-on display not turning on, and the 20+ things mentioned in the User Interface section. Google says they've made further changes to the Internet tile and Quick Settings areas, plus they added Material You dynamic theming to the boot screen, which is fun. Here are examples of the new Internet tile and the new images to use when deciding a display color profile:

Old vs. New Internet Tile (Android 12)

New display color setting example images

What are you seeing that has you excited?

Apps

Fix for issue causing Assistant to unintentionally start a phone call in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for stuck or frozen app UI in certain conditions.

Audio

General fixes & improvements for audio playback issues in certain apps *[P6].
Fix for issue causing audio noise in videos captured while using certain phone cases *[P6].
Fix for issue causing microphone to cut out during calls in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for issue causing occasional audio glitch when adjusting volume levels *[P6].
Fix for issue occasionally preventing audio playback from speaker in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for issue preventing Now Playing to search for unrecognized music *[P6].

Battery & Power

Additional improvements for battery charging information shown in notification shade *[P4, P4a, P4a 5G, P5, P5a, P6].
General improvements for battery & thermal performance in certain conditions.
General improvements for wireless charging in certain conditions *[P4, P5, P6].
Improvements for alignment detection on Pixel Stand in certain conditions *[P4, P5, P6].
Fix for issues occasionally causing incorrect Battery usage accounting to display in Settings.

Biometrics

General improvements for fingerprint sensor stability & performance *[P6].
Additional fixes for issues preventing enrollment of new fingerprints in certain conditions *[P6].
General improvements for face unlock stability & performance *[P4].

Bluetooth

General Bluetooth stability improvements for certain conditions *[P4a 5G, P5, P5a].
Fix for distorted audio over Bluetooth in certain scenarios *[P6].
Fix for issue causing Bluetooth to turn on after disabling in certain conditions.
Fix for volume adjustment issues with certain Bluetooth audio devices.

Camera

General image quality improvements in camera preview/capture *[P6].
General improvements for camera stability & performance *[P6].
General improvements for auto-focus response in certain capture modes *[P6].
General improvements for color consistency in viewfinder preview *[P6].
Fix for issue causing blank viewfinder preview in certain conditions *[P6].

Display & Graphics

Enable ANGLE graphics support library for certain apps and games *[P6].
Add additional example images for display color options in Settings.
General improvements to keep the screen on after multiple manual wakes.
General improvements for Adaptive brightness response in certain conditions.
Fix for occasional screen flicker during brightness adjustment *[P6].
Fix for issue preventing Smooth Display to switch display refresh rate in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for issue causing screen flicker after locking or unlocking device in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for occasional white screen flash after display goes to sleep.

Framework

Fix for issue causing app icons to display as pending downloads after installation completes.
Fix for issue causing Play store app installation to pause indefinitely in certain conditions.
Fix for issue occasionally preventing Work Profile setup to complete in certain conditions.
Fix for issue preventing all settings or apps to be restored from backup during setup in certain conditions.

Media

Fix for issue causing system crash during media playback in certain conditions.

Network & Telephony

General improvements for network connection stability & performance.
Fix for crash in Settings when toggling Airplane mode on certain network configurations.
Fix for issue that disabled call features on certain devices or networks in certain conditions *[P6].

Sensors

General improvements for sensor stability & response in certain conditions *[P4a 5G, P5, P5a, P6].
General improvements for Quick Tap response & performance *[P4a 5G, P5, P5a, P6].
General improvements for Auto-rotate response in certain device orientations *[P4, P4a, P4a 5G, P5, P5a, P6].
General improvements for Adaptive brightness response in certain conditions.
Fix for issue preventing lift to wake and double tap to wake in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for issue preventing Always-on-display from turning on in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for issue causing unexpected haptics or vibration in certain conditions *[P6].

System

Kernel update to 4.9.279 for Pixel 3a & Pixel 3a XL.
Kernel update to 4.14.243 for Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL & Pixel 4a.
Kernel update to 4.19.202 for Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 5 & Pixel 5a (5G).
General improvements for system stability & performance.
Fix for issue causing device to freeze after sleeping while charging in certain conditions *[P6].
Fix for issue occasionally preventing OTA updates to install.

User Interface

Add Material You dynamic theming support for the device boot animation.
Improvements for Internet tile in Quick Settings.
Improvements for Quick Settings layout in certain device orientations.
Fix for issue causing display to stay on during wireless charging *[P4, P5, P6].
Fix for issue causing Game Dashboard icon to display over lock screen.
Fix for issue causing incorrect colors or theme to display in Quick Settings in certain conditions.
Fix for issue causing lock screen icons to display in notification shade in certain conditions.
Fix for issue causing notification History & Clear all buttons to occasionally display incorrectly.
Fix for issue causing persistent app media controls in notification shade in certain conditions.
Fix for issue causing persistent call notification in certain conditions.
Fix for issue causing persistent Turn off work apps button in app drawer.
Fix for issue causing screen flicker after locking or unlocking device in certain conditions.
Fix for issue causing Settings to crash in Conversations menu in certain conditions.
Fix for issue causing undismissable Game Dashboard button during gameplay in certain conditions .
Fix for issue causing app drawer to scroll to the top after clearing search query.
Fix for issue causing certain home screen icons to appear misaligned in certain conditions.
Fix for issue enabling Quick Settings toggles to be tapped from home screen in certain conditions.
Fix for issue hiding date or time in Quick Settings in certain conditions.
Fix for issue occasionally causing blank background on home screen after setting wallpaper.
Fix for issue occasionally causing Quick Settings to pull down after unlocking device.
Fix for issue occasionally causing UI elements to display with transparent backgrounds.
Fix for issue occasionally displaying Work Profile badge icon on personal apps or contacts.
Fix for issue preventing conversation bubble to be dismissed in certain conditions.
Fix for issue preventing search results to display in Settings in certain conditions.
Fix for occasional screen flicker in notification shade when dragging from top of screen.
Fix for occasional flickering when quickly switching between apps in certain conditions.

Wi-Fi

General improvements for Wi-Fi stability & performance.
Fix for issue that would occasionally disconnect device from Wi-Fi in certain conditions *[P6].

// Google

December 2021 Android Security Update Now Available for Google Pixel Phones

Kellen — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:05:34 +0000

The monthly update that blesses your Google Pixel phone arrives today, well, for most of you. Google is pushing out the December Android update to Pixel phones from the Pixel 3a up through the Pixel 5a. You'll notice I didn't mention the new Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro and that's because their update won't get here until next week. Oh, this also happens to be a Pixel Feature Drop month, so you not only get the fresh security patches, you get new features to play with. What a treat to end 2021. Currently, we are seeing new 12.0.0 files for Pixel 5a (SQ1A.211205.008), Pixel 5 (SQ1A.211205.008), Pixel 4a 5G (SQ1A.211205.008), Pixel 4a (SQ1A.211205.008), Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL (SQ1A.211205.008), and Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL (SQ1A.211205.008). Once we know the Pixel 6 build numbers and see them posted, we'll update this post. Google should begin pushing these updates shortly (Settings>System>Advanced>System update), but if you don’t want to wait for Google and prefer to update manually, you will find each factory image or OTA file at the links below. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go. Links:

Pluto TV Gets Integrated Into Google TV

Tim — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:03:01 +0000

Google detailed this morning that the Pluto TV service is getting integrated deep into Google TV. What does that mean? It means you can now set Pluto TV as your service of choice in the Live TV tab, plus you will now also see Pluto TV recommendations pop up on the For You tab should you choose to let it. As detailed by Google, "Starting today, we’re partnering with Pluto TV so you can access more than 300 free live TV channels on Google TV. Visit the Live tab to see what’s on now or check out the Free Live TV recommendations in the For You tab. This new integration with Pluto TV will be available on all Google TV devices in the coming weeks." As mentioned, you'll see Pluto TV integration pop up on your Google TV device over the coming weeks. In the meantime, go back to watching your cowboy porn, aka Yellowstone. // Google

It's a Pixel Feature Drop Month and the Pixel 6's First

Kellen — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:00:09 +0000

To finish out the year in one of the best possible ways, Google is issuing a new Pixel Feature Drop, with new features for all Pixel phones from the Pixel 3a up through the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Some of these new goodies will be available right away with the December Android update, while others will show up over the coming weeks. Here's everything new coming to your Pixel phone!

RELATED: December 2021 Android update for Pixel phones

Google Pixel x Snapchat

A new Quick Tap to Snap feature will let you access Snapchat directly from the lock screen. This is a part of the Quick Tap or double-tap shortcut gesture that can activate any number of actions when you double-tap the back of your phone. Google says that this specific shortcut makes Pixel phones the fastest to let you make a Snap. You'll find this new shortcut on the Pixel 4a 5G up through the Pixel 6. Also, later this month, a new Pixel-exclusive Lens called "Pixel Face" will be available.

Now Playing get two new features

The Now Playing text you see on your lock screen that identifies music playing nearby is getting a couple of much-needed, super useful features. For one, if the on-device Now Playing service can't find the song that's playing, you'll see a new search button that'll let Google use its other skills to find it. From there, if you hear a song playing and Google recognizes it, you'll be able to tap the music note next to the song on your lock screen to save it as a favorite.

Pixel Buds-A bass controls

Within the Pixel Buds app, Google is adding a bass slider that ranges from -1 to +4, giving you a better bass experience that is at least more personalized to your ear. While not a full-blown equalizer, we'll take anything. Google is only suggesting for now that this is a feature coming to the Pixel Buds A-Series.

Ultra-wideband file sharing

The Pixel 6 Pro has an ultra-wideband chip to allow it to communicate with other ultra-wideband devices that are nearby. Using this, Google is enabling file and photo sharing using their Nearby Share feature. Google didn't provide much else, but did say to expect more info on this functionality "at a later date."

Other stuff:

Google Assistant power button long-press: The new long-press power button shortcut to launch Google Assistant is getting a setting that lets you specify how long that long-press is needed before opening Assistant.
Dana Kearly wallpapers: To celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Google is adding new wallpapers by Dana Kearly, a disabled multidisciplinary artist.
BMW car keys for Pixel 6: This was announced last week with the big list of new Android features, but again, Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro now work with "certain" BMW cars from 2020-2022 as a digital car key.
Car crash detection: Pixel's car crash detection has expanded to Taiwan, Italy, and France.
Recorder: The Recorder app supports new languages, including Japanese, French, and German.
Conversation Mode: Google is pushing out an early-stage accessibility feature called Conversation Mode through the Sound Amplifier app that is available first on Pixel. This Conversation Mode "uses on-device machine learning to help anyone who has a hard time hearing in loud environments by tuning out competing noise."

Here is the feature breakdown per phone:

NOTE: The December Android update is rolling out starting today to the Pixel 3a up through the Pixel 5a. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are supposedly not getting the update until next week. // Google

Verizon is Collecting Your App Usage, Web History, and Location: OPT-OUT NOW

Tim — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 08:36:08 +0000

We're having flashbacks to 2012, as it's spreading across the web at Verizon has automatically enrolled its wireless customers into something called a Verizon Custom Experience program. TL;DR: It's data collecting bullshit designed to target you better for the purpose of selling ads. In a broader breakdown, what does VCE do? It collects way too much personal information for my tastes, then according to Verizon's website, uses that data to, "personalize our communications with you, give you more relevant product and service recommendations, and develop plans, services and offers that are more appealing to you." Specifically, VCE collects your app usage, web history, location, as well as the people you contact. Seems like a bit much, right? According to the digging of Input and Gizmodo, we can already tell you that Verizon keeps data about the websites a user visits for "no more than six months" and holds onto location and customer proprietary network information (CPNI) information for up to a year. In addition, call records, including the times and duration of calls, are recorded, though, conversations and text messages are not used.

Opt-Out Now

If this isn't what you signed up for and want to GTFO of this, I don't blame you. Thankfully, the process of exiting VCE is easy enough. Open the My Verizon app on your smartphone, enter the Settings tab, then locate the Privacy Settings menu where you'll see the option to disable Custom Experience and Custom Experience Plus. Once located, press “Don’t Use” for both programs. That'll be the end of that... for now.

While you're at it, there is likely additional data collection settings in the app. Go ahead and disable all of it. Verizon will attempt to make it sound beneficial to you to keep it all enabled, but yeah, that's all a lie. Turn it all off.

I have to think that if Verizon was more transparent with things like this, it wouldn't be so shocking and maddening. But no, they opt for the sneaky automatic enrollment tact, which has to leave a nasty taste in a customer's mouth. It's gross, with Verizon customers already paying large amounts of money for cell service, it's as if Verizon feels entitled to this data. Customer privacy concerns are at an all time high and this is simply the latest scum move by a massive corporation that should know better. // Gizmodo | Input

YouTube Music Gets Sweet New 'Recently Played' Widget

Tim — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 12:44:23 +0000

YouTube Music users running Android 12 can check out a sweet new Recently Played widget, thanks the latest app update that's now rolling out. As its name suggests, the widget shows album art for recently played music, with a few size options available, too. In the standard 5x2 layout, you get the album art, artist and song title, along with a pause button, like button, and five additional recently played cover arts. This widget can then be resized to show less music or more music. It's pretty slick, if I may say. If you're not seeing the widget on your Android 12-running device, ensure you have version 4.55.55 from Google Play. So long as you have that, it should be there. If it's not, force stop and relaunch the app. More widgets, please! // 9to5Google

Verizon LG Velvet Lives, Gets November Security Patch

Tim — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 09:21:00 +0000

Verizon is now pushing the November security patch to any remaining LG Velvet owners. This is the phone's first update since September, which in the grand scheme of things isn't actually all that bad for a mobile business that no longer exists. LG made all customers aware that certain phones would continue receiving support even after its exit from the phone business, so it's good to see them keeping its word. For those interested, this update is labeled as build RRVSG900VM20e. I suspect some other LG devices will get this same update soon enough if they haven't already. You know, phones like the V60, Wing, and other high-end LG devices. // Verizon

Galaxy S10 Lineup Gets Access to One UI 4.0 (Android 12) Beta

Tim — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 08:07:09 +0000

Samsung announced that it has made the One UI 4.0 (aka Android 12) beta available to the Galaxy S10 series in South Korea. This is great news for those of us in the US, as it's likely Samsung will spread the Galaxy S10 beta out to more markets very soon, should initial testing in its home country prove successful. We've already detailed what Galaxy users can look forward to when One UI 4.0 hits their device, but to recap, it's a solid update to the existing One UI experience. Samsung has taken a few of the great portions of Android 12's Material You and implemented them into its own skin, such as the gorgeous color customizations. Additionally, expect all of the new security/privacy features and updated app aesthetics. Android 12 is the bee's knees. We'll update you as soon as we have confirmation that the beta is available to US users. In the meantime, feel free to get a little excited, Galaxy S10 owners. // Tizen Help

Pixel Pass Users, How's That Going for You?

Tim — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 12:24:26 +0000

With the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google introduced Pixel Pass, a single monthly subscription that not only finances your smartphone, but includes select Google services, such as Google One storage, device protection, and YouTube Premium. While we're hoping that most customers are having a positive experience with Pixel Pass, it's not exactly a complete surprise that a few users are running into issues. Over on the subreddit for Google Fi, it appears some users are seeing their Pixel Passes get cancelled for no known reason. Then when reaching out to Google customer support, they get a runaround and no decent explanation as to what's going on with their account. Reddit user Flesh-Nuggets paints a fantastic picture what they've experienced so far:

Just got an email, telling me they [Google] cancelled my Pixel Pass, due to not activating my phone. My phone has been activated since the day I received it (Oct 30). The email states, "You'll continue financing the Pixel 6 at an undiscounted rate. Device protection will be canceled"

Of course, I contacted customer service immediately and I was told, "I just checked your account and you're still enrolled. Kindly ignore that email."

I replied, "I'm looking at my account right now and it says Pixel Pass is now inactive." He replied, "let me check your account" (I thought you just did??). He returns and asks, "have you returned the other phone?"

WHAT OTHER PHONE? I only have one. Then of course he says he's going to escalate it and they'll get back to me later.

Another user, Sonic__, is also having a similar experience, but with the YouTube Premium subscription that is supposed to be included with their Pixel Pass.

It appears that my YouTube Premium account has lapsed and is no longer active, even though I still have Pixel Pass.

I've contacted support. They had my log out and back in, then led me back to the same YouTube page in the screenshot. When I confirmed that all I could do is sign up and pay for a new subscription they escalated to a specialist. Will update.

Again, we hope most Pixel Pass users are having zero issues, but now we're generally curious. If you are using Pixel Pass, how has your experience been? Any issues? Care free? Let us know in the comments below, and to everyone having issues, we hope you get them resolved ASAP. C'mon, Google! Cheers Sean!

Report: Here Comes the Google Pixel Watch

Tim — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 11:47:41 +0000

Google is finally making a Pixel Watch, at least, that's what the latest report is indicating. According to Business Insider, who has a source with knowledge on the matter, Google will be giving us what we've been clamoring for since forever, which is a Wear OS-based smartwatch designed by the Pixel hardware team. Naturally, not much is known about what we can expect from the watch, but according to sources of The Verge, it will definitely be able to count steps and read your heart rate, plus we should expect some sort of Fitbit integration. Additionally, it'll be priced to compete with the Apple Watch and not less expensive fitness band devices. According to BI's report, we can expect to see this device, which isn't confirmed to be called the Pixel Watch yet, sometime in 2022. Come on, Google. Now is the time. // Business Insider (Subscription) | The Verge

Lenovo Tab P12 Pro Gets Android 12L Developer Preview 1

Tim — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 09:46:51 +0000

Android 12L, designed specifically with devices featuring foldable and large displays in mind, is finally getting its first breath of fresh air. Unfortunately, not many people will be able to play with it just yet. While we all wait for a public beta, Google has made a Developer Preview build available to the Lenovo Tab P12 Pro, a device that isn't available for purchase in the US. Boo. If you're somehow the owner of this tablet device and want to get a little frisky, do note that this Developer Preview is intended only for developers. In fact, the build appears to break all of the tablet's features, so I would simply tell everyone to stay away from it unless you're a trained dev pro. For example, this Android 12L build breaks biometric security, TOF sensor functionality, two finger touchpad functions, Miracast is broken, and a whole bunch of other stuff is either non functional or not tested to work. So again, if you somehow own this tablet that isn't for sale in the US and still want to give Android 12L a shot, follow the link below for instructions on flashing.

Instructions to Install Here

// 9to5Google

Verizon 5G Home Internet Expands to Two New Cities

Tim — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 08:26:00 +0000

Verizon announced this week an expansion of its 5G Home Internet service, bringing the 5G-powered goodness to both Dayton, OH and Jacksonville, FL. If you already live here, you know how beautiful both of these cities are, but don't you think they look even better with 5G? We think so. Customers with qualifying mobile plans can get a 5G Home plan for as little as $50/month, while customers without a qualifying plan can get in on 5G Home for as little as $70/month. With 5G Home, expect download speeds averaging around 300Mbps, with max download speeds set at 1Gbps. If you need a bit of convincing to try out 5G Home, Verizon is offering a Smorgasbord of free trials and goodies: If you sign up and qualify, you'll get Disney+ for 12 months, AMC+ for 12 months, a free Google Nest Hub Max, plus a one-time $100 credit off your bill. Nice.

Check 5G Home Availability Here

// Verizon

If You're a Spotify User, Today's a Fun Day

Tim — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 13:20:07 +0000

If you're a Spotify user, the best time of year has arrived. That's right, the Wrapped rundown on your year in music is hitting your phone, filled with cool insights and details on your listening habits for the year of 2021. Spotify says there are some new features for Wrapped this year, including:

2021: The Movie – This feature pairs your top songs with classic scenes from a movie that’s all about you.
Your Audio Aura – We worked with an aura expert to visualize your audio aura based on your top two music moods.
Playing Cards – This is an interactive, data-based game that you play and then share with your friends. We’ll display several statements about your listening this year and you’ll have to guess which are true.
2021 Wrapped Blend – Tapping into the new Blend feature launched this year, Spotify fans can see how their 2021 music tastes match up with friends, stream their blended playlist, and share their results on social.

Naturally, I canceled my Spotify Premium earlier this year in favor of YouTube Music, so I don't get to join in on the festivities, but I'm sure it would have been a lot of Cannibal Corpse (new album this year), Gojira (also had a new album), and oldies from the 60s. My music habits haven't changed much over the years. Update: And here I was, thinking Wrapped was only for Premium users. That's simply not the case! All users can enjoy Wrapped, which surprised the heck out of me. Sweet! // Spotify

Qualcomm Announced Its Snapdragon 8 Platform for All the Next Non-Google Phones

Kellen — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 13:19:40 +0000

Qualcomm's Snapdragon Tech Summit is taking place this week in Hawaii and the company did as it always does at this event, it announced the new high-end chip for smartphones for the upcoming year. Please welcome in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. I'll keep this short, because smartphone chip talk is only going to make my COVID booster body hurt worse. Here's what you need to know in the briefest of Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 overviews:

4nm chip: This an octa-core, 64-bit 4nm chip referred to internally as SM8450 and it has some sort of new next-gen Adreno GPU that Qualcomm doesn't appear to want to name. Qualcomm says to expect a 20% performance boost from its Kryo cores and up to a 30% power saving, while the new Adreno chip is at 30% faster and with 35% power savings.
X65 5G modem: This is the fancy and new integrated 5G modem that will bring you all the connections to all the 5Gs. We're talking up to 10 Gigabit downloads in the absolute perfect setting, as well as WiFi 6 and WiFi 6E. If anything, just know that it'll be better than whatever 5G modem is in the Pixel 6 that Samsung made.
Snapdragon Sight cameras: The new 18-bit ISP that Qualcomm is using can capture a ridiculous amount of data (4000x more camera data that the Snapdragon 888 in dynamic range, color, and sharpness) at speeds up to 3.2 gigapixels per second. It has a special Bokeh Engine for your portrait shots , shoots 8K HDR video, and has a feature that keeps your selfie camera always-on...for security purposes.
Gaming: There are over 50 Snapdragon Elite Gaming features baked in that'll bring you "ultra-smooth responsiveness," HDR scenes, and desktop-level performance.
Sound: In the sound department, we have Bluetooth 5.2 and Snapdragon Sound, which is Qualcomm aptX Lossless Technology for CD-quality audio.

As for when we'll see the first phones running the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, it should be very soon. Motorola has confirmed that it is working on a new high-end phone, as well as a 5G wearable. OPPO (or OnePlus) also confirmed a Q1 2022 launch of various smartphones running 8 Gen 1. You can bet that Samsung will use this chip too with the Galaxy S22. Basically, only Google's Pixel 7 is unlikely to have it, thanks to Google Tensor. Snapdragon 8 Gen 1!

You Can Buy Verizon-Branded Bang & Olufsen Android TV Soundbars Now

Tim — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 10:34:28 +0000

Verizon announced it is selling two new Android TV-powered sound bars, made in partnership with Bang & Olufsen. While we have to assume B&O handled all of the audio and production side of this, Verizon did feel it necessary to smack their logos on these sound bars, but beyond that, these are good looking bars. THere are two sound bars to choose from: the Stream TV Soundbar ($399) and the Stream TV Soundbar Pro ($999). That's a huge jump in price, so what are the differences? The $399 Stream TV bar offers 4K UHD streaming (up to 60fps), Atmos virtual surround sound, 5 built-in speaker drivers (3 full range and 2 woofers), WiFi 6, HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 - (2 in and 1 out), Bluetooth 5.0, 2GB RAM, and 16GB of onboard storage. The $999 Soundbar Pro includes wall mounting hardware, 9 built-in speaker drivers (4 full range, 3 tweeters, and 2 woofers), plus an additional HDMI input. It also includes the 4K streaming at 60fps, Atmos sound, and dynamic sound field selection. One of the main selling points would be Android TV built in, so long as B&O and Verizon intend to offer good software support. I have no experience with B&O products, so I can't speak from experience, but these go up to $999, so I expect nothing but premium support and quality for a sound bar. Do these seem like a cool idea?

Buy: Stream TV Soundbar | Stream TV Soundbar Pro

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q77kORvl9g&t=1s&ab_channel=InsideVerizon // Verizon

Samsung Intros $249 Galaxy A13 With 90Hz Display and Sub-6 5G

Tim — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 09:35:33 +0000

Samsung introduced the Galaxy A13 5G this morning, and while we don't usually like to toss on the "5G" part of their naming scheme, we felt it important with this device. You see, the A13 5G is only $249, while still bringing some perfectly fine specs. For example, it has Sub-6 5G connectivity as evidenced by its name, as well as a 6.5-inch display with 90Hz refresh rate. That seems pretty good for $249. Other specs for the Galaxy A13 5G include a triple rear camera system (50-megapixel main shooter), expandable storage up to 1TB, 5,000mAh battery, 15W fast charging support, MTK Dimensity 700 processor depending on the market you purchase in, NFC, and a side-mounted fingerprint reader. Honestly, sounds like a dope little $249 phone. If you want one, the Galaxy A13 5G will be available online starting December 3 at AT&T, followed by Samsung's own website and T-Mobile starting in January, 2022. // Samsung

Google Gives Android Another 10 New Features We Can All Enjoy

Kellen — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 09:00:46 +0000

To cap 2021, Google has announced another batch of software features that will come to most Android devices, from widgets to Google Assistant to Android for Cars, there is a lot to talk about. While you won't all get everything, because some of this stuff is device specific, a lot of it will rollout gradually to your phone and mine.

New widgets: YouTube Music, Play Books, and Photos

In the coming days, Google will issue new YouTube Music, Google Play Books, and Google Photos widgets that will go nicely on that Material You home screen (or also for those not on Android 12). The YouTube Music widget adds playback controls and recently played tracks to your screen, the Play Books widget gives you access to your full library of books and audiobook progress, and the new Google Photos widget is for People & Pets, where you get yo select the people or pets you'd like to see at all times.

Family Bell comes to phones

One of my favorite Google Assistant features introduced during the first year of the pandemic was Family Bell. It came in so handy for my kid who was doing his best to stay on task during remote school, plus it's still been helpful as a daily reminder for him to do his homework, that sort of thing. Google is bringing the Family Bell to phones, meaning the feature is no longer an Assistant feature that you only access and use through Google Home or Nest devices. Going forward, you'll even be able to set personal Family Bells that will only ring to your phone. The Family Bell is very much becoming more than a household announcement feature. For the holidays, Google will add suggested bells too, like reminders to water the Xmas tree, volunteer for a local cause, or watch a family movie together.

Google Photos new Memories feature

A new Memories feature will start to show up in your photo grid in Google Photos that showcases a curated selection of photos and videos depending on the time of year or season or if a birthday is near. That could be cool to relive important moments, but Google is also going to let you rename, personalize, correct, or remove them from Memories.

Gboard gets thousands of emoji for Emoji Kitchen

The Emoji Kitchen for Google's Gboard keyboard is getting "thousands" of new emoji combinations and they'll rollout starting today to those in the Gboard Beta. For those not familiar, Emoji Kitchen is this really fun feature that lets you combine two emoji to make custom, personal emoji that you can send to friends and family. Tim loves it.

Android in your car gets a lot, including car keys on Galaxy S21

If you happen to own a car that runs Android or you use Android Auto a lot, here are some sweet new features coming to it:

Digital car key: The Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Galaxy S21 line can use their phones as a digital car key in select countries with support BMW vehicles.
Auto-launch Android Auto: There's a new auto-launch feature that will fire up Android Auto the minute your phone connects to your compatible car.
Always-on play button: A new always-on play button from the home screen will soon let you single tap and get into your favorite music.
Faster search for music: "Coming soon," Google says there will be a new voice-to-search button that will let you find music from your favorite artists or songs much "faster."
Smart text replies: Also "coming soon," you'll be able to respond to text messages more easily with Google Assistant in Android Auto, thanks to smart replies and custom messages.

Finally some security news

And for the last feature to be on the lookout for, Google is expanding its permissions auto-reset feature all the way back to Android 6.0. For those not familiar, this feature looks at apps you probably haven't used in a while and removes permissions from them, hopefully leaving those apps without the ability to do much on your phone. // Google

Here's a Peek at YouTube With a Material You Redesign

Tim — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 12:51:40 +0000

Above in the header image, you're getting an early look at what the YouTube app may look like when/if it receives a Material You makeover. As we already know, Google has been busy pushing Material You updates to plenty of apps, but YouTube is one of its most important and widely used platforms, so it's no surprise that the company is slow to push big changes -- unless it's trying to copy other apps like it did with Shorts, which is nothing but TikTok videos as evidenced by the TikTok watermarks on nearly all Shorts. Anyway... this post isn't about Shorts.

What Video Pages Currently Look Like

If this change indeed happens, on video pages at least, there's nothing too crazy to report. YouTube is tossing existing elements, such as the Like and Dislike buttons into pill-shaped bubbles. Currently in the YouTube app, those buttons exist without any pill boxes. Beyond that, I'm not really seeing much. We'll keep you posted if this change appears to be made available more widely. I checked my phones and I see nada so far. Womp womp. Thoughts on the look? // Google News on Telegram

Droid Life Holiday Gift Guide 2021

Tim — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 09:37:09 +0000

The holiday shopping season in full swing right now and we're here to help you get some shopping done. If you have a tech lover in your life, we've compiled a list of sweet gift ideas that you can't go wrong with. Obviously, there are phones, but there's also office ideas, home entertainment ideas, and plenty else. We’ve broken the DL Holiday Gift Guide out by price, to help you find the section that is within your budget. We’ve got expensive ideas (phones, of course) all of the way down to items under $20.

Budget: $400 and up | $200 | $100 | $50 and under

$400 and Up

Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro ($599+)

When Kellen and I foreseeably get asked by our relatives this holiday season which phone they should buy, the easy answer will be the Pixel 6 (review) and Pixel 6 Pro (review). At the entry price of $599, the Pixel 6 is what we label as a no-brainer. It has the software support, great camera, and good performance. However, if they want a bit larger of a device and have the means for it, the Pixel 6 Pro is also an amazing choice. You can't go wrong with either device, which is what makes this such an easy recommendation. Thank you for making our lives a bit easier this year, Google. Buy: Pixel 6 | Pixel 6 Pro More Expensive, Yet Awesome Phone Options

Galaxy Z Fold 3 ($1599) -- A true statement piece smartphone. The best foldable money can currently buy.
Galaxy S21 Ultra ($1199) -- Samsung's ultimate flagship smartphone with excellent cameras and superior hardware.

Kana Pro Standing Desk ($459+)

If you or someone you love is trying to incorporate a standing desk into their life, I highly recommend checking out the Kana Pro from FlexiSpot. I've set up a few standing desks before and the Kana Pro was easily the least frustrating, which is saying quite a bit. Obviously, the up/down operation of the desk works great, but what I appreciated is the convenient add-ons and customization options that FlexiSpot offers at time of purchase. For example, you can quickly add a Desk Bike to your order to really help your body stay active during the workday, monitor arms, desk mats, cable management tools, and so much else. Personally, when FlexiSpot asked if I wanted to try the desk out, I requested a Sit2go Pro chair to go along with it and it's been a lot of fun to get some biking in while working on reviews and other Droid Life posts. If you're still stuck working from home and want to help yourself be a bit more active, give it a look. Buy: FlexiSpot

Klipsch Cinema 800 Sound Bar ($969)

Klipsch introduced a new set of Cinema-line sound bars this year and provided me with the Cinema 800 for testing purposes. Setting up the bar was easy enough, but enjoying the sound from the bar was even easier. For me, who likes stupid amounts of bass and low end has greatly appreciated what this 3.1 setup provides, plus the various presets for sound characteristics. Additionally, it supports Google Cast, so casting music to the sound bar is easy and perfect for when I'm entertaining. There's a whole range of Cinema bars to choose from, but the Cinema 800 is the least expensive option to get the Dolby Atmos support. Buy: Klipsch

Eufy SmartDrop ($349)

Eufy, one of the sub-brands of Anker, has an upcoming delivery locker device that I've been testing for the past month or so. So far, I love it, with the highlights being motion-activated voice controls that let delivery people know how to use the locker, a high-quality camera for recording video, plus a relatively easy build process. If this would be good for your setup, order one now with deliveries set for January, 2022. Buy: Eufy

Galaxy Watch 4 ($249+)

Wear OS is back thanks to Samsung. Both the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are solid smartwatch devices, with good battery life, health and fitness tracking, plus software that has really matured into something worthy of being attached to your wrist all day. With a starting price of $249, it's another one of those no-brainer purchases if you're looking specifically for a Wear OS timepiece. Buy: Samsung

Alternative Option: Fossil Gen 6 Smartwatch ($229) -- Fossil's latest Wear OS smartwatch that should eventually receive the very important Wear OS 3 upgrade.

Oculus Quest 2 ($299+)

When VR was still getting on its feet, I didn't like it at all. It gave me motion sickness, so I ignored it for a long time. However, I remained curious. Recently, my wife took a work trip and left me all alone, super bored. I decided I would try an Oculus Quest 2 and asked folks for game recommendations. I'm so glad I decided to get one. Thanks to the various improvements VR has received over the years (higher resolution displays with increased frame rates), my motion sickness is much better and the titles/games available on the Quest 2 is amazing. There is no shortage of awesome games and even my wife likes playing them. This is a fun-for-the-whole-family gift and you won't regret it. Use the referral link below to purchase your Quest 2 and you'll receive $30 of in-store credit to use on games for your VR headset. Buy: Oculus

Philips Hue Gradient Light Strip

I recently moved and I promised that as a gift to myself, I'd invest in a cool light setup for the living room. I got a Philips Hue Gradient Light Strip, plus a Sync Box and it's been one of the cooler things I've ever bought. When not syncing to a movie or show, I just have it display cool colors and guests really seem to get a kick out of it. It works well with music from Spotify, too. If you want to be that cool guy, definitely get that Sync Box, too. Buy: Amazon

Really Dope Accessory: Hue Sync Box ($229)

$200 Budget

Polar Unite Fitness Tracker ($149)

Polar has a wide variety of fitness tracking devices, ranging in prices from pretty cheap to stupid expensive. The Polar Unite falls into the relatively inexpensive category at $149, but brings a bunch of fantastic features for that cost. You get a color touchscreen display, insanely good battery life (I still have yet to charge mine after nearly a week of usage), sleep tracking, GPS support, heart rate monitoring, plus a ton more. I've been using this watch to track my CrossFit activities and it's been keeping up great, with tons of tracking options available from right inside of the watch. This is an ideal stocking stuffer for the fitness enthusiast. Buy: Amazon

Klipsch T5 II ANC Earbuds ($179)

It wasn't only sound bars that Klipsch was making this year, as the company also released its first set of ANC earbuds, the T5 II. Usually priced at nearly $300, they can be had for $179 right now, which is a very solid price for what you're getting here. The build quality on these is incredible, with the earbuds housed in a gorgeous metallic case. For specs, you get the very good ANC, Bragi head gesture controls, Dirac HD sound, and up to 7 hours of battery on a single charge (21 hours total with case). For those who love the Klipsch brand, it's a good deal. Buy: Klipsch

Alternative Option: Pixel Buds Series A ($79)

Able Carry Daily Backpack ($128)

I used to have a weird obsession with getting new backpacks all the time and then a pandemic helped in ending that. That said, I was offered the Able Carry Daily Backpack over the past year and really like it a lot. This 20L backpack is awesome for day trips, looks slick, and has more features than I knew was possible in a backpack. This particular pack comes in a couple shades of black, navy, and this hot Cordura Olive. It'll fit up to 15" laptops, has numerous pockets in different sizes, a key leash, zipper stows, side hooks, a chest strap, and a good amount of padding in the back and straps. Overall, it's a bag that's a really nice size for anyone on-the-go. Buy: Able Carry

Bigger Option: Able Carry Max Backpack 30L ($260)

$100 Budget

iFixit Manta Kit ($64.99)

DIYers, if you don't already have an iFixit toolkit in your home, you're doing the whole thing wrong. The Manta Kit is my go-to bit set when dealing with all of the electronics in my home. There are bits in here that I didn't even know existed, perfect for swapping batteries or installing video doorbells. Seriously, this thing has been so clutch for me. Buy: Amazon

Pixel Stand 2nd-Gen ($79)

You just bought a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, so now you need a sweet accessory for it. Doesn't get much sweeter than the upcoming Pixel Stand 2nd Gen, right? Pre-Order Here: Google

$50 and under

Bellroy Leather Case for Pixel 6/6 Pro ($49)

I'm still waiting for it to arrive after the longest damn pre-order period, but Bellroy's leather cases for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro look so hot. I ordered the Sea Mist version above and can't wait for it to show up. They have other really nice colors too, including a Terracotta that should develop a nice patina over time. Buy: Bellroy

Anker Nano Pro Charger ($19.99)

This isn't the fastest charger on the block, but at 20W, it's basically giving you full Pixel 6 charging power. I really just love them because of the size - look how small that is! These are great for spaces (like in the kitchen) where you might need to plug-in multiple things at a time and don't want to give up the slot where you power your phone. Oh, they also come in several fun colors, not just white. Buy: Amazon

iFixit Essential Kit ($24.99)

If you only need the essentials, iFixit's $25 Essential Kit is a perfect stocking stuffer. It has the main tools you'll need to complete minor phone repair jobs. Buy: Amazon

Captains of Crush Hand Gripper ($26)

We could all improve our grip strength for general life activities and one of the best ways to do it is through a hand gripper, like these Captains of Crush models. This is the ultimate random stocking stuffer that is actually useful. Keep it on your desk, get in a grip strength workout a few days a week while on Zoom calls, and boom, thank me later. Buy: Amazon

Rocket League Sideswipe Arrives, Your Next Toilet Addiction

Tim — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:43:17 +0000

I've always wanted to play Rocket League, but was intimidated by the learning curve. With Rocket League Sideswipe now live for Android users worldwide, I think my time has come. That's right, official Rocket League on mobile. Is this real life? According to the game's description, players can choose 1v1 or 2v2 game modes, customize their cars, play private matches, unlock goodies via a Rocket Pass and Seasons (money, money), and plenty else. Looking at the trailer below, this is definitely Rocket League, but on your phone. That's a pretty cool thing. The game is free to download, so have at it.

Google Play Link

https://youtu.be/PD4sts5ikh8

Spotify Retires 'Car View' Feature

Tim — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:49:30 +0000

Spotify confirmed to users recently that it has retired its Car View feature, first introduced back in 2019. Car View was a more minimal UI for those who were driving and also needing to access Spotify, and while we're curious, Spotify doesn't exactly state why the feature was dismissed. Spotify did let everyone know that they're working on something new, but we'll need to remain patient, as they have nothing announce quite yet.

We can confirm that we're retiring the car view feature. This however doesn't mean we don't want to improve on how our users listen to Spotify while driving. On the contrary, we're actively exploring a variety of new ways to deliver the best in-car listening experience. Think of retiring car-view as something that needs to happen in an effort to make way for new innovations coming down the track.

Sorry, Car View lovers. // Spotify

30 Days With the Pixel 6 Pro: Umm, I Didn't Make It

Kellen — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:22:29 +0000

That title is probably not what you think it is. While it is correct in suggesting I couldn't make it 30 days using Google's Pixel 6 Pro, it's not because the phone has provided an awful experience that would turn most people away. Instead, I couldn't use the Pixel 6 Pro for 30 days because Google released another phone that's more my style, the Pixel 6. The Pixel 6 has won me over and the benefits included in the Pixel 6 Pro over the regular version were just not enough to keep me around. Let's talk about the last 30 days of life with a Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 6.

Pixel 6 Pro, still great for most

I think the takeaway from my initial review of the Pixel 6 Pro was really that Google made a very nice flagship-level phone, the best they had created in a really long time. They went for it in almost all departments and delivered quite a fun experience at a price well south of the competition. The Pixel 6 Pro, from the minute it dropped, became an impossible phone to ignore and likely one that most people should have had at or close to the top of their short list of potential new phones. And I still firmly believe all of that! But that's what I believe when suggesting a phone for other people. As I mentioned above, the Pixel 6 Pro just isn't a phone for me. The Pixel 6 offers a better fit, even if I still have gripes there too. Unfortunately, if you came to this post hoping for an update on the Pixel 6 Pro after a month or so of use, with new info on battery life or performance or the camera, I do not have that. As much as it is my job to test devices and then relay that info back, I'm a human and can only put up with something I don't like for so long. Instead, here's what the last 30 days have been like as I've tried to find a phone for me.

What you lose with the Pixel 6

The minute I wrapped my Pixel 6 Pro review, I reached for my Seafoam Pixel 6 that I had purchased during the pre-order period, but was waiting to use. I fired it up, set it up, and immediately started to get a feel for the differences between its $599 value and what you get for $899 in the 6 Pro. I should also probably point out that I had a Pixel 6 Pro in Cloudy White on pre-order, but it was already a week+ late at this point, thanks to the lovely delivery service known as Ontrac. We'll come back to that situation in a minute. The first things you notice between the 6 and 6 Pro are the size, the thicker side walls of the phone, and of course, that flat display. By no means does the regular Pixel 6 feel cheaper, it just feels flatter in various ways. If anything, I find it more comfortable to hold, which sounds odd when you consider the curves to the 6 Pro that should make it fit better in the hand. There's something to a flatter phone design that aides in grip and usability. After the in-hand differences, you'll notice (at least I do) the difference in screen quality and speed. The Pixel 6 Pro absolutely has a better display and the 120Hz is noticeable vs. the 90Hz on the Pixel 6. Everything is smoother no matter what you are doing, don't listen to or trust a person who suggests otherwise. It's hard to say if there is a big performance hit on the Pixel 6, knowing it has less ram (8GB vs. 12GB), but I do notice the occasional hiccup or stutter that I don't recall on the 6 Pro. Not that the Pixel 6 is slow or frustrating to use, there are just times that you'll spot a frame drop and wonder the cause. And then finally, there is the camera to talk about. The Pixel 6, without that extra telephoto lens, is technically a step down. Well, in versatility it is too, depending on how much importance you put on a telephoto lens. During my 6 Pro review period, I really thought I wouldn't be able to live without that lovely and talented telephoto shooter, but here I am weeks later without it and haven't really missed it. Since the rest of the cameras are the same, that's all there is to know. You get the same excellent camera performance out of either phone with its 50MP and ultra-wide lenses, which will take care of most situations. I'm sure at some point down the road, on a hike or traveling, I'll find a need for the telephoto, but the other issues I have with the Pixel 6 Pro outweigh that rare use case. So yeah, when going between the two, you'll notice the screen differences, the shape of the phone in hand, and (maybe) some performance hiccups. Other than that, these phones are very similar, yet one costs $300 less.

Why I can't go with the Pixel 6 Pro

Back to that Ontrac story for a second - that original pre-order I put in for a Cloudy White Pixel 6 Pro never arrived. Instead, they marked it as delayed with delivery expected the following day for 22 days and then figured it was lost. Thankfully, Google shipped me a replacement well before that saga ended. Once it (finally) showed up at my house, I was pretty excited to fire it up after using the Pixel 6 for a few weeks and do another comparison between the two to make a choice on my phone going forward. I lasted 24 hours with the Pixel 6 Pro and went back to the Pixel 6. The Pixel 6 Pro is just too f*cking big, man. I love the display, the design, the performance, and its lovely haptics. I could certainly find uses for that telephoto lens more often if I had it. But since Google only gave us a tablet-sized Pro phone this year, it will be a year that I go with the downgraded version. It sucks. I'm borderline mad at Google for doing this. From the Pixel 1 through the Pixel 4 (and sort of with the Pixel 5), Google has given us options where we get two phones with identical specs that really only differ in size, because choice is good and not everyone wants a massive phone to carry around with them at all times. Apple gets this. Samsung...OK, only Apple gets this. Maybe they are the only ones large enough to be able to get this and deliver on it, but holy shit to the Android world - give us some freakin' smaller phone options. Doing almost any life task brings unnecessary stress when you have a phone like the Pixel 6 Pro with you. It's slippery, has too much glass, and feels fragile enough that setting it down almost anywhere will taunt you about potential disasters. And no, I'm not putting a case on the behemoth of a phone to protect it that will only make it even bigger. That's absurd. Not all of us want a damn case on our phones. We want phones that can be used with a single hand. News alert here, phone makers - a whole bunch of us don't give a shit about watching video all day long on our phones. We use them as if they were a tool, for messaging and email and news reading and lists and controlling our homes and other actions that we don't need a 7" display for. A 6" or even slightly smaller would be just fine, because we'll be able to do things on them without much effort, like without a second hand. And look, the regular Pixel 6 is not that much smaller. I'm annoyed at it too. But like I mentioned earlier, it's much easier to handle because of its flatter, thicker sides and slightly smaller footprint. It's not really in one-handed territory, but it comes close.

I guess it's the Pixel 6 for now

We're at the end of another year in smartphones and so we know exactly what our choices are. When looking around, the Pixel 6 is probably the best phone for me, even if I don't absolutely love everything about it. I have a Galaxy S21 here, and it's fine. It falls inline with the Pixel 6, in that Samsung made the Ultra the ultimate phone with everything and then issued the S21 as the lesser version with some significant cuts. My issue with the S21 is that the early tastes of One UI 4 aren't great. I much prefer Android 12 on the Pixel line over Samsung's current take. I also never really loved the S21 and its cheap body, as you probably recall from my review. OnePlus phones would be the other option, except they feel so far removed from what we all once appreciated about OnePlus. I have serious concerns about the software experience going forward, their phones are also all massive tablet phones with glass and curves, and they aren't cheap. And since I just ran through why the Pixel 6 Pro isn't for me, that leaves me with the Pixel 6. I really do like Android 12 and the Pixel experience, the cameras, performance, and the overall design. This phone will do the trick for now and probably up until the Pixel 7 shows up in a year from now. Or maybe I'll just keep defaulting back to this iPhone 13 Pro. Thanks for giving us choice, Apple.

Galaxy Watch 4 is $50 Off, But You Get a Free Duo Charger With It

Kellen — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 08:20:33 +0000

The Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic have been available with a $50 discount for a solid couple of weeks now, thanks to the holiday shopping season kicking off. For Cyber Monday, retailers are sweetening the deal by tossing in a free charger alongside that original discount. For today, Amazon has both the Watch 4 (review) and Watch 4 Classic (review) at $50 off (starting at $199) and you get a Samsung Fast Charge Pad Duo with it. This Duo charger, which can wirelessly charge both your new watch and phone at the same time with decent speeds, typically retails for around $60. It's on sale right now for $42, but that's still a $42 freebie on top of that $50 discount. Amazon is offering the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic in this bundle deal in every single configuration I can find. If you want 40mm or 44mm Watch 4s, you'll find those in all colors. For the Classic, the same applies, with both 42mm and 46mm watches available with the charger in numerous colors. Even the LTE models are included. Amazon Deal Link

These are the Best Apps and Games on Google Play in 2021

Kellen — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 07:23:32 +0000

I know that you are completely sick of reading about Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, so here's something different. Google announced the winners of its "Google Play's Best of 2021" awards, naming the best in apps and games for the past year. The list starts with the best overall app of the year, which is Balance, as well as the best game, Pokemon UNITE. There are users' choice winners as well, with Paramount+ and Garena Free Fire MAX taking those honors. After that, the list breaks everything out into category, from "Apps for Good" to those for "Personal Growth" and then tablets and Wear OS and Google TV. You'll find similar categories for games too, a number of which are indie titles that Google sure seems excited to share. While I feel like so many of our smartphone and tablet experiences are locked into apps and games we've all used for years and are rarely replaced, these are the lists to look at if you have been itching for something different.

Users’ Choice 2021

App: Paramount+
Game: Garena Free Fire MAX

Best App

Balance

Best Game

Pokémon UNITE

Best of app winners

Best Apps for Good

Best Everyday Essentials

Best for Fun

Best Hidden Gems

Best for Personal Growth

Best for Tablets

Best for Wear

Popular on Google TV

Best of game winners

Best Competitive

Best Game Changers

Best Indies

Best Pick Up & Play

Best for Tablets

Droid Life's Random List of Black Friday Deals

Tim — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 11:23:43 +0000

It's Black Friday, and while we love posting about tech deals every single year, we figured it's time we keep it fresh and post any ol' thing we personally think is cool. For example, I'm really big into guitar plug-ins and fancy jump ropes right now. Maybe you are, too? You never know when inspiration may strike, so let's give it a whirl. As you'll see below, we have a collection of odd links, all filled with solid deals to fill up either your own home or someone else's as a gift. You have to love this time of year, right? Have fun poking around!

Tim's List

NeuralDSP Plug-ins: 50% Off - In my opinion, the best guitar plug-ins on the market. At 50% off, it's a crazy deal. I highly recommend the Gojira Archetype.
FlexiSpot Standing Desks: $100+ Off - Standing desks are all the rage right now. These ones are high quality and incredibly priced.
RX Smart Gear: Spend $100 Get $10 Off - Best jump ropes money can buy. You'll be mastering double-unders in no time.
Legion Supplements: Up to 40% Off - I've been taking Legion's post workout mix for a week now and have really been enjoying it. If you need a flavor suggestion, Blue Raspberry. Mmm.
Anchorsand: Up to 70% Off - Sweet clothes.
Alex Pardee: 30% Off Entire Store - One of my favorite artists. He's selling clothing, prints, and other collectibles.
Alaska Seasoning Co.: 25% Off Orders of $65+ - This is my go-to seasoning maker. Everything is awesome, but if you need to choose, the Goldrush Blend is incredible.
Mondo: Rare Poster Prints Back in Stock - Who doesn't love sweet posters of your favorite pop culture stuff?

Kellen's List

Marine Layer is 20% off everything - The clothes are just so damn soft and the sizing hits those of us in-between sizes like no other.
Amazing Grass "Greens Blend" Superfood are 15% off - Greens are good for you. Drink these every day thanks to this discount.
Legends Luka HD shorts are 30% off - The Instagram ads are obnoxious, but these shorts are my favorite workout shorts of all time. The whole site is 30% off, but a lot of it is cheesy. Just get the shorts.
On Running Classics 20-30% off - The Cloudswift by On is my current top general workout shoe. If you buy the current model, it'll run you $150, but the "Classics" version can typically be had secretly anywhere from $99-$119. Shop the Classics for great deals on On's lovely workout gear.
Anker's newest magnetic 2-in-1 stand is 20% off - Yes, I still use my iPhone 13 Pro and the Anker magnetic 2-in-1 is my favorite bedside charger. I have the older model, but this new one is on sale for BF.
A Game of Cat and Mouth - Got a kid? This game from the Exploding Kittens crew is a really fun one. My 8-year loves it and it's also only $12.50 for BF.
Quip is 25% off at Best Buy - My whole family has used Quip toothbrushes for years now. Can't say enough about the design, cheap refills, and quality of brush I get. If you want cooler colors than Best Buy has, you gotta shop direct at Quip, though.
Misen hosting 25% off everything sale - Misen makes a bunch of quality kitchen products at decent prices, but their Utility Knife is the best I own (I actually have 2) because of its size and sharpness. Get it now for 25% off. Buy them for your whole family too.

Any random things you want to share that we need to buy?

Verizon Drops $200 Off Pixel 6 Pro

Kellen — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 10:33:08 +0000

Verizon customers eyeing the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, there is a decent deal for you on this Black Friday. Buying either phone as an upgrade to an existing line will save you $200 on either phone. As far as we can tell, there aren't a bunch of weird strings attached here. This is an upgrade through a device payment plan rather than one of those shady deals they always do where they say "$700 off...if you add a line that you don't need." Instead, they are still doing that annoying bill credit discount, with a month discount being applied to knock the $200 off, but it's at least something. So what you'll do is hit the link for the phone you want below, sign-in, walk through the process to upgrade your existing phone line, and then purchase the phone on a device payment plan. That will spread the cost of the phone out over a couple of years (yes, this is a 2-year contract) and the $200 promo will come off throughout that period. Look, it's not the absolute best deal like a normal $200-off today deal would be. There just aren't many Pixel 6 deals to be had, though. Here's our Pixel 6 Pro review too. Verizon Pixel 6 deal links:

Pixel 6 Black Friday Deal Returns With $499 Price

Kellen — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 09:38:53 +0000

The Pixel 6 went on early Black Friday sale pretty early and then proceeded to sell out. Best Buy must have found some more stock because they are once again accepting orders at their Black Friday prices, although I have no idea when you'll get those orders. The best Pixel 6 Black Friday deal we have at the moment is up to $100 off at Best Buy. That discount drops the price to as low as $499, which is incredible. To get that $100 off, you have to "activate" with a carrier, like Verizon. It's kind of a weird deal, but it does get you a really good price, assuming the activation fee doesn't wipe it all out. If you want, you can also choose to "activate later" and get $50 off without dealing with that carrier nonsense. While Best Buy is allowing you to try and buy this phone again, it's hard to tell if you'll actually be able to do so. They may only be allowing you to buy if your local Best Buy has stock. I'm struggling to find stores that have it. Good luck out there. We've got a Pixel 6 review for you to read if you aren't sure what to do here yet. In short, I'd argue that the Pixel 6 is the best phone you can buy for the money right now. It's a great phone that seems to get better the more you look at the price. Best Buy Deal Link

The 5 Best Anker Charging Black Friday Deals at Amazon

Kellen — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 08:46:43 +0000

One of the best parts about Black Friday is that companies like Anker, who make excellent charging products, discount almost everything they sell. We're talking real discounts too, not the kinds where companies puff up prices a few weeks before only to drop them back down in what amounts to nothing more than a sneaky price trick. For Black Friday, Anker has dropped their fastest and smallest chargers to incredible prices, plus their charging stands and power banks and power stations and power strips are all on sale too. These are the 5 best Anker Black Friday deals to shop.

Anker Nano II 45W Charger: $12 off

Everyone needs super fast chargers that are tiny. Anker's Nano products are exactly that, and today, you can grab their 45W Nano II, built with GaN technology, for as low as $28. That's a $12 discount, and yes, this is the lowest this product has ever been. What's so great about it? Well, outside of the fact that it'll charge a freakin' laptop or your phone as fast as is possible, it's so tiny it won't take up much space in an outlet. It's small enough that you can easily use the 2nd outlet to charge or power whatever else you need. Trust me, buy these. Amazon Deal Link

Anker Nano II 65W Charger: $23.50 off

I could probably just copy and paste what I wrote above for this one because it's the same idea, only faster. This is the Anker Nano II with 65W charging speeds, so it'll charge your laptop or Macbook even faster. It's also smart enough to charge your phone at whatever speeds it'll accept. It does all of that, again, in the tiniest of forms. At $23.50 off, you can grab this 65W little guy for $31.49, which is its best price ever. Get one. Amazon Deal Link

Anker 10W Wireless Charger: $9 off

Wireless chargers are a thing I don't personally love, but I know so many of you do. This one is a famous Anker wireless charger because it's somewhat fast and also stupidly cheap. At $9 off, you can grab this charger for $7. Yes, this charger is $7. Amazon Deal Link

Anker USB C Power Strip: $25 off

I'm a big fan of modern power strips because they not only have ports to power your everyday electronics, they also have speedy USB and USB-C ports. This particularly power strip from Anker has 3 regular power outlets along with two USB-A and a single USB-C port. It's not that simple, though. You get a 6 foot cord to stretch it where you need it and the USB-A ports power at 15W, while the USB-C is capable of 45W Power Delivery. This is a super sweet power strip that is built to look pretty and sit nicely on your desk. At $25 off it's down to $45. Amazon Deal Link

Anker Outdoor 521 Portable Power Station: $78 off

Alright, if you are an outdoor fan, love to camp, or just need a backup power option, you can't ever go wrong with a power station. The Anker 521 Portable Power Station is $78 off, dropping its price to $182. I can't even begin to describe the level of goodness in this deal. I think I'm going to buy one myself. This power station has 256Wh of power with dual power outlets, two USB-A ports, a USB-C port, and a car socket for more power. It can power home appliances, charge your phone dozens of times, your laptop a handful of times, etc. Since it has such a huge battery, it would normally take forever to charge it back up, but Anker allows you to charge it with both an AC outlet and through the USB-C port. That means you can charge it up in around 2.5 hours. Amazon Deal Link

The 5 Best Samsung Black Friday Deals at Amazon: S21 Ultra $300 Off

Kellen — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 07:39:51 +0000

Black Friday has bee in full swing for a solid week now, with many stores not changing it up much for today, the official day. Amazon is one of the few that is, though, so if you were looking for Samsung Black Friday deals, they sure have them. From high-end phones to mid-rangers to buds and chargers, they have a good mix of stuff on sale.

Galaxy S21 Ultra Black Friday Deal: $300 off, starting at $899

We've picked out 5 that we think are a great buy, like the Galaxy S21 Ultra for a straight $300 off, bringing it's price down to $899. This is one of the best prices we've ever seen on Samsung's best phone. Most deals involving it force you into a trade-in or contract, but this is a price drop for the Black Friday. Be sure to read our review if you need a refresher. In short, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is probably still the best smartphone of 2021 for most people, even it is approaching the 1-year old mark. Amazon Deal Link

Galaxy Tab S7+ Black Friday Deal: Up to $230 off

Samsung's Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+ lines are both discounted for the weekend, with discounts ranging from $150 off up to $230 off. Depending on the storage you need, you can grab one for as low as $499. We don't talk about tablets very often because there are so few players and Android tablets have always been pretty bad, but as a Galaxy Tab S7+ owner, I can confirm that these tablets are indeed very good. Their high-refresh rate displays, beautiful displays, solid builds, S Pens, and Android skins make for a tablet experience that no other Android maker can match. The best value here is probably on the fully-loaded Galaxy Tab S7+ with 512GB storage for $729 ($230 off). However, if you want the lowest price, the regular Galaxy Tab S7 is down to $499. Amazon Deal Link

Galaxy Watch 4 Black Friday Deal: $50 off

The Galaxy Watch 4 BF 2021 deal isn't as good as we have seen, but at $50 off for all models (both Classic and regular), this price is still so dang good. Samsung's Wear OS watches are very good, probably the best you can buy on Android, and so we'll take any discount. Double that with the fact that each is priced to beat the competition at full price and you've got a good reason to buy one this week. The Galaxy Watch 4 starts at $199 right now, while the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is as low as Amazon Deal Link

Galaxy Charge Pad Duo Black Friday Deal: $25 off

Samsung keeps making handy chargers that will charge multiple devices at a time. In the past, their offers haven't been the best reviewed, but the 2021 version of their Charge Pad Duo has been well received and also happens to be $25 off. You can get this Duo charger with charging adapter for $35, which is its best price ever. This device will charge your Galaxy Buds and Galaxy S21 Ultra at the same time with up to 9W of wireless speeds. No, that isn't Earth-shaking speed, but you are getting multiple device support. Amazon Deal Link

Galaxy SmartTag+ Black Friday Deal: $15 off

Need a stocking stuffer idea? Samsung's best tracker, the SmartTag+, is $15 off and down to $25. This is the best price ever for a tracker that'll has Bluetooth and UWB for ultra-precise tracking of almost anything you can attach it to. Amazon Deal Link

Best Black Friday Phone Deal Might be the OnePlus 9 Pro at $270 Off

Kellen — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 09:00:50 +0000

OnePlus has made a bunch of smartphone-related decisions over the past year or so that we don't love. They ditched their clean Android skin to look more Samsung-esque and then took things a step further by merging with Oppo and letting them turn OxygenOS into something we don't recognize at all. But OnePlus still makes really solid phones with specs for days, clean designs, and promises of updates for years into the future. There is a lot to consider when looking at OnePlus phone, but a huge Black Friday sale can always help answer any final questions. For Black Friday, the OnePlus 9 Pro is $270 off, dropping its starting price down to $799. That'll get you the 256GB version with 12GB RAM, a big 120Hz display, Hasselblad camera that is quite good, and a promise of at least 4 years of updates. That is an incredible price for this phone with all that it has. Remember, the OnePlus 9 Pro first debuted at $1,069. For those thinking this one through, be sure to read our OnePlus 9 Pro review. If you then decide it's time to buy, go for the Pine Green model and not this weird gradient silver thing. It's ugly and the green is hot. Shop OnePlus 9 Pro Deals:

Fossil Gen 6 is $90 Off and Might be Worth It Now

Kellen — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 08:10:49 +0000

The Fossil Gen 6 released earlier this year with the worst of timing. The fashion wearable company prepared what should have been a nicely upgraded, chart topping Wear OS watch heading in the holiday shopping season, only to be undercut by Google, who had other plans that included partnering with Samsung for its wearable platform and giving the cold should to its old friends. Because of the questionable future of the Fossil Gen 6 until it sees an upgrade at some point next year to Wear OS 3, it has been a tough watch to pay much attention to. We have one, even unboxed it, but testing has always felt sort of pointless. As solid as the watch has performed during a few days of testing, at $300, it just isn't a watch to be considered until we know what's happening with Wear OS 3. However, at $90 off, like it is right now for Black Friday, you might want to consider one. That discount drops the watch to $209 and probably makes it worth taking a chance on. At $209, you get a well-built, slickly-designed watch with all the proper specs. It has a Snapdragon Wear 4100+ chip inside, big and round display, rotating crown, Fossil's suite of health tracking services, sleep tracking, access to the Google Play store, water resistance, and quick charging. The only real issue with this Gen 6 has been what will happen in the future, which Fossil has promised to do good on, but look, you never really know in tech until it happens. The entire range of the Fossil Gen 6 is $90 off at Amazon and Fossil.com. Amazon Link | Fossil Store

Only $50 for a Nest Hub on Black Friday

Kellen — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 07:45:58 +0000

The Nest Hub is such a handy piece of tech. Not only can you use one to rotate through your thousands of pictures of your cat, you can use it to listen to the new Adele, watch LeBron boot fans from their courtside seats, view the cameras you've unnecessarily bought to turn your house into a secure compound, track your sleep and heavy snoring, and yell at Google Assistant about reminders and shopping lists. It really does have an endless amount of tasks it can complete. If you don't own one already or you need more, because 'Merica, the Black Friday Nest Hub (2nd Gen) deal is such a good one. At $50 off, you can grab this little smart display for $49.99 at every retailer that happens to sell it. I can tell you that I have some form of a smart display in a few rooms in my house at this point, all of which get plenty of use. The one in my office (a Nest Hub Max) is great for daytime reminders, a quick Duo chat with my wife, and occasionally firing up YouTube TV or Twitch. The one in my bedroom is a Nest Hub (2nd Gen) that I tested out sleep tracking for a bit, but mostly use it for bedtime tasks (turning lights off, setting the temperature, etc.) and as a bedside clock. The old Lenovo thing in my kitchen is a first gen smart display, but it still works great for timers, opening a recipe here and there, video chatting, and managing my shopping list. I'm a big smart display fan. $50 off for Black Friday! Nest Hub Black Friday deal links:

New APK Brings 'Pro Mode' to Your Galaxy S21 Ultra's Telephoto Lenses

Tim — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 09:50:38 +0000

Released officially in South Korea, but sideloadable by Galaxy S21 Ultra owners in the US already running Android 12, a new app is available that allows you to take complete control over all of the cameras on the backside of your device. Currently, Samsung only allows for Pro Mode to be utilized by the wide and ultra-wide cameras on the Galaxy S21 Ultra. With this app, you'll be able to access Pro Mode with the telephoto shooter as well, opening up plenty of possibilities to those who are more skilled with a camera than I am. Below you can see all of the sweet new features for your phone, but the highlights include shutter speed controls, manual focus for those lenses, HDR, and plenty else. What the App Offers

Linear DNG 16bit raw
Lossless JPEG
HDR
Professional mode functions such as ISO, Shutter-Speed, EV, Manual Focus, White Balance, Histogram, etc.
UW, Wide, Tele(3x), Tele(10x) lens support

For those of us in the US, the app will need to be sideloaded, as it hasn't yet been made available through Samsung's app store. No worries, sideloading is easy enough. Simply follow the link below, download the APK, click on the file, then install it to your phone. If your phone says you need to allow for APK installs from places other than Google Play, go ahead and allow it. You can then change that setting back if you like to be safe. Go have some fun, S21 Ultra owners!

Download APK Here

// Samsung | @FrontTron

Galaxy Watch 4 Gets Biggest Discount Yet: $70 Off

Kellen — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 08:37:30 +0000

The best Android smartwatch you can buy is the Galaxy Watch 4 and because we're living through Black Friday 2021 week, it has seen several discounts. In fact, it's on sale at every retailer that sells it, but only one of them has the best price for it yet. If you cruise over to Amazon (in a hurry), you'll find the Galaxy Watch 4 (non-Classic version) down to $179 or $70 off. This is absolutely a deal you should take advantage of if you can, assuming you are fine with the 40mm model in black, as that's the only version at this price. Most places have all of the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic devices at $50 off in various colorways and sizes. However, Amazon has targeted the black smaller version of the Watch 4 for this bigger discount. Need to know why it's the best Android smartwatch there is? Read our review. Then go buy it.

Shop Galaxy Watch 4 deals at Amazon

OnePlus Buds Pro About to be $20 for All of 1 Minute

Kellen — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 07:49:10 +0000

The excellent OnePlus Buds Pro are about to participate in a flash sale where their price will drop from $150 down to $19.99. This is a Black Friday sale with limited quantities (500 units) that will without a doubt sellout instantly. You can try for it, though! We reviewed the OnePlus Buds Pro earlier this year and really liked their design, robust sound, battery life, and more. They were priced well within the competition at $150, but obviously a $20 price tag is nuts. As a bit of a history lesson, just know that OnePlus has done these types of flash sales in the past and the units are gone before you can refresh the page a couple of times. I can't imagine this sale will run any better than that with this sale having half the available units, but again, you may as well give it a shot in case you get lucky. (You won't.) The sale runs at 11AM Eastern (8AM Pacific). Hit this link to try.

UPDATE: The 500 at $20 are gone, but OnePlus is still dropping $50 off the full price for the next several days. $99 for these buds is still a good price.

DEAL: Jabra Elite 85t Earbuds Only $149 ($80 Off)

Tim — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 12:22:55 +0000

This week, I destroyed a pair of Jabra Elite 85t earbuds by putting them in my pants pocket, forgetting that I put them there, then placing them through a washer/dryer cycle. While the right bud seems to be fine, the left bud sounds like I have my ear up to a seashell and it won't sync with the other earbud. As these are my favorite earbuds, I'm considerably disappointed in myself, but it has led me to discover that Jabra is hosting a solid Black Friday sale on these earbuds right now, bringing them down to just $149. At $149, which is $80 off the typical $230 price, these earbuds are a solid pick-up for those who appreciate great build and sound quality. Honestly, I've played with a lot of earbuds over the past few years and I keep using the Elite 85t, thanks to the very good battery life, ridiculously good ANC, plus an Android app that I don't hate using. Now, if only they had superior water and heat (washer & dryer) resistance I'd be doing great, but alas, their demise is entirely my fault. For those curious, these earbuds come with a rating of IPX4, which is only good for very light splashes, not being submerged. You can follow one of the links below, and don't worry, I'll undoubtedly be shopping for a pair right alongside you.

Shop Jabra 85t Earbuds

Google Pixel 6a Evidence Suggests Tensor Chip Like the Pixel 6

Kellen — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 11:26:57 +0000

The rumored Google Pixel 6a may have begun its life in renders earlier this week, but already we're learning additional pieces of info that might mean more to us than just its appearance and display size. Evidence has reportedly surfaced that suggests Google will push its Tensor chip onto its affordable A-series, but the cameras might return in a familiar setup. This new information has apparently been spotted within a Google Camera app, because Google foolishly leaves this type of stuff inside its apps all of the time, knowing full well that it will be unearthed. The crew at 9to5Google found it and believes it shows a Pixel 6a - codenamed "Bluejay" - on the way that will be a heck of a device, assuming the price matches other A-series phones.

Google Tensor in Pixel 6a

The big find here is that Google Tensor (GS101), the first smartphone chip from Google that debuted in the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, will be in the Pixel 6a. This is huge news, as Tensor enables a wide variety of on-device smarts and additional support for the life of a phone, as well as solid performance that the A-series has never really had. Previous A-series phones all featured mid-range stuff from Qualcomm, and while they performed fine, using Tensor would certainly be a major upgrade. Tensor is a high-end chip built for high-end phones like the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Should Google go through with Tensor in the A-series, they are very much following Apple's phone strategy of using the same top tier chip in phones from top to bottom, no matter the price.

Pixel 6a cameras are familiar

Outside of Tensor, Google is likely to use a familiar setup in the cameras. This leaky Google Camera app has revealed a Sony IMX363 main sensor, which you should know as the same 12.2MP camera that Google used from the Pixel 3 up through the Pixel 5a. Additionally, we should get a Sony IMX386, an ultra-wide angle lens that is found in the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Finally, an 8MP IMX355 selfie camera will be up front, just like it is on the regular Pixel 6. We still have no idea when a Pixel 6a might arrive, but this is all painting the picture of a device that could be excellent. Again, should the price match previous A-series releases, this one will be hard to ignore.

Verizon Galaxy S21 Lineup Gets Updated, Presumably Android 12 Bug Fixes

Tim — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 10:50:48 +0000

Earlier this month, Samsung began pushing the Android 12 system update to Galaxy S21 owners, with Verizon variants getting in on the action first. Now, it appears that what we assume is a bug fixer update, labeled as System Update 12, is hitting Verizon Galaxy S21 lineup devices. The only thing noted in the changelog is "system enhancements." Obviously, that's not helpful at all, hence our guess that there's a few misc. big fixes inside. The update is hitting the Verizon Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra today with the following build numbers and still the November Android security patch:

Galaxy S21: SP1A.210812.016.G991USQU4BUK9
Galaxy S21+: SP1A.210812.016.G996USQU4BUK9
Galaxy S21 Ultra: SP1A.210812.016.G998USQU4BUK9

Go snag it and report back, owners! // Verizon Cheers Steven!

Preliminary OnePlus 10 Pro Spec List Hints at Beastly Phone

Tim — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 08:22:15 +0000

According to reports, we're at least 4-5 months away from the launch of the OnePlus 10 Pro. As far as the world of leaks go, it might as well be next week, as we're already getting our eyes on a spec sheet for the upcoming flagship device. We have a solid idea of what to expect in terms of appearance from the device and we also know that we should expect a somewhat new software experience from OnePlus. With a spec sheet now making the rounds, there's only a few things unknown, such as pricing and how insanely fast the phone charges. Below are the reported specs for the OnePlus 10 Pro.

OnePlus 10 Pro Specs

6.7-inch QHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate
Snapdragon 8 Gen1 CPU
8GB/12GB LPDDR5 RAM, 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 storage
IP68 rating
48MP + 50MP + 8MP triple rear camera system
5000mAh battery
32MP front-facing camera

As you can see, expect the same thing from OnePlus in the Pro series. That is, a phone with all of the latest and greatest specs. There'll be the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen1 chip, up to 12GB RAM, a large 5,000mAh battery, IP rating, plus a camera system that's likely pretty good designed in partnership with Hasselblad.

Too Little, Too Late?

Will this phone cost less than $1,000? Unlikely. The OnePlus 9 Pro came in at $1069, and with this reported spec list, I don't see how OnePlus would intend to get that down, especially with a chip shortage still in full effect and plenty of other consumer electronic-making materials also seemingly in short supply. I've been saying this, but I need to continue to say it, just so I can come back later and point out whether I was wrong or right. 2022 will be a critical year for OnePlus in the US market. We're already seeing somewhat of a staleness to OnePlus' phone business in the US. If our pulse reader is reading right, people don't seem as excited for OnePlus launches like they used to be, and if the company can't excite people with its next lineup and get buyers back onboard, it could be rough sailing for OnePlus USA. What's your thoughts on the spec sheet? Sounding like a solid device to you? Enough to get you hyped for a new OP phone? // 91mobiles

Google has Some Cool Features Coming to Pixel 6's "At a Glance"

Kellen — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 13:53:53 +0000

The "At a Glance" thing that sits at the top of the main home screen on a Pixel phone is certainly not my favorite feature on Google's devices, but I can also appreciate that some find it incredible helpful. I'm also open to the idea that Google can further improve it, so that I will stop begging for them to just let me turn it off, as I did a year ago. In a recently updated Android System Intelligence app, the folks at 9to5Google dove deep into the files of the new version and discovered a bunch of stuff that Google is working on that could greatly enhance "At a Glance." Google's home-positioned non-widget could soon do a lot more than remind you about upcoming calendar items and commutes. Google is apparently preparing to add the following new features:

At a store: If you are at a supported store, you could see shopping lists, Google Pay rewards cards
Bedtime: A reminder about your upcoming bedtime from the Clock app
Connected devices: When Bluetooth devices are connected, it could show you battery. I'd still rather have this widget.
Doorbell: You could see a notification or shortcut to view your doorbell when it rings
Fitness: Fitness app info displayed
Flashlight: A home screen reminder that your flashlight is on
Safety check: A safety check countdown from the Personal Safety app
Timer & stopwatch: Timer and stopwatch info from the Clock app

Many of those actually sound pretty handy, assuming you spend a lot of time on the home screen of your phone. Unfortunately, we have no idea if or when Google could push any of this live. We also don't know if these will be Pixel 6 exclusive features or if all still-supported Pixel phones will get them. The fact that they are working on it is at least noteworthy, and look, we shouldn't be too far out from a new Pixel Feature Drop. Still, just let me turn it off and reclaim that space, Google.

DEAL: Pixel 5a is Only $349 at Google Fi ($100 Off!)

Tim — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 11:41:38 +0000

Someone in your life bust their smartphone and need something to get them through the holidays? Or maybe you yourself are the klutz? How about a sweet smartphone stocking stuffer? Regardless of your circumstance, Google Fi is offering $100 off the Pixel 5a, bringing its total down to only $349. That's a really good deal.

Pixel 5a Review: Little Improvements, Better Price

Pixel 5a features a rear-facing fingerprint reader, IP67 rating, 6.34-inch display, 4680mAh battery, Snapdragon 765G processor, and that same Pixel camera system that's been awesome since the Pixel 3. Buying a phone from Google Fi is easy enough should you already be a customer. Simply add the device to your cart and apply any trade-ins you may have, then check out. If you're not a Fi customer, they'll want you to sign up for service, but because you aren't tied to a contract and can cancel anytime, you can do whatever you'd like with the Fi service. Have at it!

Google Fi Link

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnYwSKhAY2E&ab_channel=DroidLife

Qualcomm Realizes No One Cares and It Can Stop Saying "5G" All the Time

Kellen — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 10:35:01 +0000

We've been told that "5G is here" for at least 3 years now even if it most definitely has not been here on a level that will make a difference in your life. During that time, the technology has evolved, carriers have tried to be "first" or fastest or the most available, and all of the tech we buy has it embedded. Part of the reason we know that 5G is in everything is because all involved parties put a "5G" brand in as many places as possible and never stop talking about it, because they all made a big bet on 5G to sell lots of stuff. The biggest investor in 5G is realizing it no longer needs to keep telling you that everything has 5G. I'm not sure I actually believe them, but Qualcomm announced today that because 5G "has become ubiquitous across [their] Snapdragon Portfolio," they are "eliminating the need to call it out specifically" and that "5G will be a given." The announcement comes alongside several changes to their Snapdragon brand, where they plan to make Snapdragon a separate brand from Qualcomm that is represented by new colors and a simplified naming scheme. As an example, their next flagship chip series will be the Snapdragon 8-Series and additional chip lines should follow a similar single digit scheme. That's all fine, but we really are only interested in this 5G step-back. Seriously, I don't know what else Qualcomm has to talk about. Every single press conference from them over the past 5 or so years has been about 5G, with a touch of gaming or cameras or AI. It's almost all, "Hey, 5G is here (again) for the 4th time...and here's a partner who made a phone with 5G unnecessarily in the name!" Then that partner shows up and runs through the typical 5G talking points of how it'll change lives and something-something medical industry and how streamed, 5G virtual concerts are way cooler than the real thing. All I know is that this should lead to less "Pixel 5a 5G" or "Galaxy S20 FE 5G UW" phones and that's a positive. We all know what 5G is and that maybe one day it'll be cool. But thus far, especially if you are on Verizon, our phone's names have been nothing but reminders that you are likely paying more for phones or service thanks to a network connection type you can't even access in your home town.

As Expected, Wear OS Market Share Leaps Into Existence Thanks to Samsung

Tim — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 08:55:09 +0000

Google is likely readying its Christmas card list, with Samsung hopefully near the top, with data suggesting that it's a safe assumption that Wear OS would be a distant memory if it wasn't for the latest Galaxy Watches. Hate it or love it, Wear OS is very much alive and well thanks to Samsung. According to data provided by Counterpoint Research, Wear OS smartwatch marketshare was at 4% in Q2, 2021. One quarter later, that number exploded to 17%, all thanks to the launch of the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. During that same period, Samsung is said to have achieved its, "highest quarterly shipments, narrowing the gap with Apple and reclaiming second place from Huawei." With competition heating up, Apple's marketshare dropped to 22% for Q3, down from 28% the previous quarter.

Can Google and Samsung Continue this Success?

Ok, so Samsung and Google had a good smartwatch quarter. Big deal. Apple has been dominating the wearables market for years, so don't go popping the bubbly bottles just yet. We want to see continued support and additional development resources put into Wear OS to make it better and keep it competitive. While it's nice having new Wear OS devices, they're far from perfect smartwatches. Apple Watches are still the top tier and it's going to take a helluva lot of work to change that, if it ever will. The last thing I want to see is Wear OS drift off into obscurity yet again because Google forgets about it or lets a third party (Qualcomm) screw everything up. We've seen it before, so I apologize if I'm not too optimistic that Wear OS will stick around. However, with more makers getting on that Wear OS boat, anything's possible. // Counterpoint Research

The Google Pixel 6a Begins Its Life in Renders

Kellen — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 07:22:36 +0000

The Google Pixel 6 is already a month old, so why not change the subject for a minute and start talking about the Pixel 6a, a follow-up phone that could arrive early next year and with a re-styled exterior to match its higher-end siblings. Pixel 6a renders are here. The first rendered images of this supposed Pixel 6a were posted over the weekend by @onleaks in light and dark colorways. The device is presented as a Pixel 6 look-alike, with camera bar, multi-tone backside, and a flat front display with hole punch and fingerprint reader. If you've seen the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, this design would look right at home alongside either.

RELATED: Pixel 5a 5G review

We aren't getting specs outside of the display, which is said to weigh-in at 6.2-inches. The rear is also said to sport a dual rear camera, although we have no idea what kind of cameras Google will use. We also don't know RAM or processor or anything really, we just believe it'll look like the renders you are seeing here, which are likely from the supply chain and a case or accessory maker.

My initial reaction to seeing these is nothing but a thumbs-up. Google had to change the styling to match their current flagship phones, so the design is absolutely fine. But that's really all we have to go on, so it's hard to have much of a view beyond that. A 6.2" display is fine, but is it 90Hz? Did Google use Tensor in this phone too or are we back to Qualcomm? Are we falling back to their old cameras again, like we saw in the Pixel 5a? All questions we need answers to. How about you - thoughts on a Pixel 6a? // 91Mobiles

VIDEO: Our Pixel 7 Wishlist

Tim — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 13:21:28 +0000

We're a solid month into our time with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. With that said, it's never a bad thing to look ahead, especially since work goes into future devices long before they are ever announced. Taking this into consideration, we'd like to present you with our wishlist for the presumably upcoming Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, devices we don't expect to see until October, 2022. Will we all even be alive by then? Who knows, but our fingers are crossed. We have a few complaints with the Pixel 6 lineup, but it's not a long list at all. We'd like to see Google address these issues with its next devices. There are three main points: Biometric security (aka the fingerprint reader), charging speeds, and the size. Seriously, we're not asking for a lot. All we want is a faster way to unlock our phone or a return to the rear-facing Pixel Imprint, faster charging speeds, plus a smaller size option. That's it, nothing crazy! Are we missing something? Headphone jack? SD card slot? Just kidding, those things are never coming back. Check out the video below. It's another quickie and won't take up much of your time at all. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30TNR7HHtLs

Hey There, Galaxy Z Fold 3 at $300 Off With Free Galaxy Buds 2

Kellen — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 11:10:56 +0000

We have moved from "early access" Black Friday deals into just "early" and that means nothing but continued savings for you. Trying to figure out which "early" period is the best to buy during isn't easy, though, unless you had been holding on Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3, which hit an excellent price today. You would be a winner in the waiting game. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is currently $300 off at Amazon, leaving you with a $1499.99 bill instead of the full $1800 we were once asked to pay. If my calculations are correct, this is the biggest price drop yet for Samsung's best foldable device. On top of the $300 price drop, you are also being gifted a free pair of Samsung's excellent Galaxy Buds 2. Those new buds are normally priced at $150, so this is a very nice perk. Now, there's always a chance that Samsung will find a way to further discount this thing before we hit Black Friday, but I kind of doubt it. This is a big discount, there is a freebie attached, and this is likely the best deal we are going to see. Don't hesitate on this one.

Shop Galaxy Z Fold 3 at Amazon

Related deal: Should Amazon end this promo, know that Samsung is hosting a $250 off deal that also includes the Buds 2 for free. You can shop it right here.

Google Might Make Your iPhone Friend's iMessage Reactions Less Annoying

Kellen — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 09:50:26 +0000

The timing of this bit of news couldn't be more perfect. A day ago, DL's very own Tim was on Twitter doing that complaining thing about iPhone owners responding to text messages of his with those awful reactions that show up on Android as these really annoying and long text responses. And here we are about to talk about how Google might make them less obnoxious. We'll give Tim credit for this potential win! After diving into a freshly released beta version of Google Messages by the crew at 9to5Google, they've discovered hints at a future where Google will see those iPhone reactions and try to turn them into emoji instead of the long text strings. As an example, you can see in the image below that I've sent myself a message from Android to iOS and then purposely reacted from the iPhone with both a question mark and "Haha." On my iPhone, those show up as little reactions next to messages, but on Android, they show up as a full line of text explaining the ridiculous reaction. It's a terrible experience that a simple reaction or two on iMessage turned into entire text messages of "Questioned 'Hey, don't do that stupid iMessage thing'" and "Laughed at 'YES THAT'" on my Pixel 6.

Should Google push through this feature (it's showing behind-the-scenes in Google Messages 10.7), Google could swap in related emoji as it recognizes the text that would accompany an iMessage reaction. Maybe they'll give me question mark and a laughing emoji in place of those examples above. This is, of course, all Apple's fault for being assholes about iMessage and Android and bubbles and all that, so yeah, we'll take Google's help in trying to make this all less terrible. If this arrives, we'll let you know. Google Play Store: Google Messages

A Stadia Premiere Edition for $22? Sure, Why Not.

Kellen — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 09:22:15 +0000

Google's gaming service is still a thing, and that's cool. Stadia has certainly changed quite a bit from that initial bare bones experience, which is also cool, but I think the truly impressive bit about this service is that it still exists. Since it does, and we're now at the 2-year anniversary it seems, Google is handing out controllers on the cheap. The Stadia Premiere Edition bundle that includes a Stadia controller in white, as well as a Chromecast Ultra, is down to $22.22. It has been priced at $80 for a while, so yeah, this is a really good deal. The thing is, even if you aren't interested at all in Stadia, you might want to grab this deal. For one, you get a Chromecast Ultra to toss onto a dumb TV or monitor that doesn't already have one. And two, you get a really nice controller for basically $20. You can use this controller to play games on your PC (a wired connection) and Android phone (also wired). Honestly, there aren't many $20 controllers that feel this nice in the hand. Again, whether you are into Stadia or not, this is still a bundle of tech that includes a solid gaming controller and Chromecast Ultra for $22.

Shop Stadia at Google Store

Pixel Buds A-Series Down to Only $79 in Early Black Friday Deal

Tim — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:24:10 +0000

Another early Black Friday deal has kicked off everywhere but the Google Store. For what must be a limited time, you can snag a pair of Pixel Buds A earbuds for only $79, down from the usual $99 price.

Pixel Buds A-Series Review: Pretty Good Buds

In our review, we label the Pixel Buds A-series as "pretty good" earbuds, with the main highlights being the overall sound quality, the way they fit in our ears, as well as good battery life. For $79 earbuds, there isn't much else you can ask for, making this a solid stocking stuffer pickup. Interested? Follow any of the links below. Pixel Buds A Black Friday deal links:

Spotify Adds Lyrics!

Kellen — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:58:45 +0000

I don't know why I've used so many damn exclamation marks today, but deal with it, friends, it's a good day of news. Spotify adding lyrics to their freakin' app after all these years is fun! And yes, that's what happened today. Spotify announced it will start to present lyrics to songs from your favorite artists, thanks in part to a partnership with Musixmatch. You'll soon (possibly today) find all of those words you certainly confused for other words as a part of your Spotify experiences everywhere. Both free and Premium Spotify users will be able to access the new Lyrics feature, which will hit Android, iOS, desktop, gaming consoles, and TV. I can tell you that none of my apps are showing Lyrics yet, but they should shortly. To access on mobile, you'll play something in Spotify, tap into the "Now Playing View," and then look for an area towards the bottom that you can swipe up on to view lyrics. Those lyrics will even scroll in real-time. On the desktop app, look for a microphone in the "Now Playing" bar, and on TV apps, there should be a "lyrics button" in the right corner. // Spotify

Nest Audio is Somehow $40 Off for Early Black Friday

Kellen — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:43:08 +0000

Google's Nest Audio is currently the best speaker they sell and one that is arguably their best yet. Google Home Max may have brought the serious boom, but Nest Audio strikes a really great balance between audio quality, smarts, and price. For Black Friday, Google and its retail partners have dropped it to an insanely low price. For Black Friday, the Nest Audio is $40 off. Let me repeat - this already-incredibly priced speaker is a full $40 off and can be had for $59.99. Normally priced at $100, the Nest Audio comes in 5 different colors (all of which are discounted), offers impressive beats through a woofer, tweeter, and software combination, and will adapt to the environment you place it. It can be paired with another Nest Audio for stereo sound, works with all of your favorite music services, can control your smart home by voice, and has a microphone that can be disabled. We're big fans of the Nest Audio, its size, its styling, and now more than ever, its price. Nest Audio Black Friday deal links:

Google Explains How Charging Works Amid Pixel 6 Charging Speed Controversy

Tim — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:15:45 +0000

Google is taking the time this week to explain how charging works. Why is this necessary? Because many people, including us, were lead to believe that the latest Pixel 6 devices supported 30W wired charging. As we're now discovering thanks to testing, that is not the case and these phones are not capable of charging speeds over 23W. But it's fine, Google, go ahead and keep marketing your 30W wall charger right alongside the Pixel 6 lineup to confuse everybody. It seems a few people took this issue rather seriously, so to help clear the air, Google has literally posted an article on how charging works for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Because nothing changes at the end of the day and these phones will still charge at only 23W, I'll spare you a lot of the details. You can always read Google's full post, but below I'll provide the important stuff. With regard to available power coming in from a wall charger, Google notes that it will not make a difference on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.

Regardless of available power coming from the wall plug, the actual power delivered through a full charge cycle varies over the course of a single charge. The charge rate at any moment is based on factors such as battery cell and system design, temperature, system usage, and state of charge.

Google also details why these phones feel like they can sometimes take forever to charge, especially for those who utilize Adaptive Charging. It's all in the name of "battery longevity."

We’ve optimized Pixel’s lithium-ion battery for high charge rates when the battery level is low. Pixel 6 can get up to 50% in around 30 minutes (with Google’s 30W USB-C Power Charger), and quickly reaches up to 80% in about an hour, depending on device usage and temperature. The peak power that Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro draw from the wired charger is 21W and 23W, respectively. As the battery gets closer to full, charging power is gradually reduced in order to improve battery longevity. Pixel may also pause charging above 80% under certain conditions, and if you enable Adaptive Charging, Pixel can optimize charge rates for gradual overnight charging.

Wired Charging vs. Wireless Charging

While the Pixel 6 lineup can charge wirelessly at 23W (that's what Google claims), Google makes it sound as if it's pointless to do so. Well, maybe not pointless, but certainly less efficient which has already been known about wireless chargers in general. In the following, Google continues to push its own 30W charger, which supports the new PD 3.0 PPS charging standard.

The Pixel 6/Pro is designed to work with existing USB PD and BC1.2 wall chargers. However, it can charge more efficiently with chargers like our 30W USB-C Power Adapter which supports the new USB PD 3.0 PPS standard. Wireless charging is typically less efficient, and is therefore slower, than wired charging. The new Pixel Stand was designed along with the 30W USB-C charger to enable fast, convenient wireless charging, with an active cooling fan to dissipate heat. Together, the new Pixel Stand and Google’s 30W USB-C Power Adapter can deliver the maximum power needed to charge the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro rapidly.

I would be totally fine with everything if Google was transparent from the beginning and disclosed the max supported charging speed of the devices. Instead, we as consumers had to assume the phones supported 30W charging, as that's what Google pointed to with its new charger on the product pages. The specs never specifically stated 30W, but they didn't say say "21W and 23W" either. It's our bad for assuming, but it's Google's bad for what could be considered misleading. Chalk it up as another lesson learned the hard way.

Chromecast With Google TV is Only $40 in Early Black Friday Sale

Kellen — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:48:23 +0000

The Chromecast with Google TV was priced out of the gate at a very reasonable $50, making it an easy buy for those looking to add smarts to TVs throughout their home. But since it's pre-Black Friday time, we have a deal on it and you'll love it. At the moment, most retailers have the Chromecast with Google TV with a $10 discount, making it $39.99. Why is this such a good deal? You get a full Google TV experience at the price of an old Chromecast that did a fifth of the stuff this can do. It comes with a handy little remote that can access Google Assistant and take voice commands, it's small enough to bury behind a TV, and it even comes in some fun colors. This, like the old Chromecast, is kind of a must buy for tech fans. Need to know more about what the Chromecast with Google TV can do? Read our review. Chromecast with Google TV Black Friday deal links:

New Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) is Up for Pre-Order!

Kellen — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:15:00 +0000

The new Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) that we expected to launch alongside the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro is now up for pre-order. The improved wireless charger from Google could arrive before Christmas if you order right away. This fancy new Pixel Stand costs $79 (like the original did), offers "Up to 23W for compatible Pixel phones," 15W charging for other devices, and comes in white. It has a fan to keep your device cool as it heats up while charging, comes with one of Google's 30W charging adapters, and is setup to be able to charge other gadgets, like your Pixel Buds. While expensive, this is the wireless charger that Google made specifically for the Pixel 6 line and other Pixel phones. When docked, it can act as a Nest Hub of sorts by letting you play with smart home gadgets. It'll even wake you up with a sunrise alarm. Pre-orders are open now and shipping showed for me as early as December 14-15.

Google Store pre-order link

The Pixel 6 is $100 Off Right Now!

Kellen — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:01:10 +0000

The first solid Pixel 6 Black Friday deal is live, thanks to Best Buy. We might be a week early, but shopping this early is probably the move for 2021's shopping season. Take advantage of this one if you can, especially with shipping times already slipping. Best Buy, like Target is planning to do, has dropped the price of the unlocked Pixel 6 by $50. However, if you "activate" today with Best Buy, they'll raise that discount to $100. Depending on how you were planning to buy a Pixel 6, you could grab one for as low as $499 or $549. That $499 price is for the 128GB model. Best Buy is also discounting the 256GB model, which would drop in at $599 or $649. This is, to put it as clearly as possible, one hell of a deal. The Pixel 6 is a really nice phone (our review) on its own, but when you combine all of its specs with its original $599 price, it was already the best value in smartphones. With it up to $100 off, it feels like we are robbing someone. Not very many of the Pixel 6 models are actually in-stock today. Most will have to ship to you, unless you get lucky and find a local store with a batch of them. Either way, this is the Black Friday deal for the Pixel 6 and you'll want to get after it.

Shop Pixel 6 at Best Buy

All These Early Black Friday Samsung Deals are Pretty Great

Kellen — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 11:25:41 +0000

Holiday shopping could get ugly this year if you don't start early enough. All of the potential shipping issues depending on the carrier and varying levels of stock are going to mean you should take advantage of deals as soon as possible, even before Black Friday. If you'd like to get started, Samsung is wrapping up its early Black Friday sales event with a bunch of great prices on their best stuff. There are discounts including up to $200 off the Galaxy S21 Ultra, $50 off the Galaxy Watch 4 line, $50 off the Buds Pro, up to $230 off the Galaxy Tab S7 line, and up to $900 off the Galaxy Z Fold 3 (with trade-in) plus free Galaxy Buds 2. Oh, there's even a deal on the Galaxy Note 20 that'll get you a free Chromebook. Here's the list to make it as easy and straight-forward for you as possible:

Galaxy S21/S21+/S21 Ultra: $100/$150/$200 off + $25 or $50 credit to spend on accessories (no trade-ins required)
- Shop this deal
Galaxy Z Fold 3: Up to $900 off with trade-in + free Galaxy Buds 2
- Shop this deal
Galaxy Watch 4/Watch 4 Classic: $50 off, no trade-in required
- Shop this deal
Galaxy Tab S7/S7+: Up to $230 off depending on storage
- Shop this deal
Galaxy Note 20 Ultra: $100 off + free Chromebook 4
- Shop this deal
Galaxy Buds Pro: $50 off
- Shop this deal
Galaxy Buds Live: $70 off
- Shop this deal
Galaxy Buds 2: $30 off
- Shop this deal

There are a bunch of other deals as well, including many that are bundles of products with watches and buds and phones. You can shop the entire Samsung Early Black Friday sale right here.

Alien: Isolation, With All DLC, Coming to Android Next Month

Tim — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 09:01:08 +0000

I remember when Alien: Isolation was launched. I actually did one of those midnight releases at GameStop, immediately went home and stayed up all night trying to outwit the Xenomorph. For fans of horror genre games, I think Isolation should rank rather highly, as the atmosphere of the game is nearly perfect, plus the Alien itself is incredibly terrifying. Maybe I'm just a super Alien fanboy so my judgement is clouded, but yeah, it's a fantastic game. Now, that same horror is coming to Android on December 16. Not only is the base game coming, but it will include all of Isolation's DLC, all for the price of $15. That seems pretty great to me, with the team behind the port (same Feral team who made the Nintendo Switch port) detailing stunning AAA visuals, customizable touchscreen controls, plus the ability to connect and play the game with a controller. I'm jacked. We'll let you know as soon as it's available. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DboBLkA5WRw&ab_channel=FeralInteractive

Question of the Day: Did Google Really Improve the Pixel 6 Fingerprint Reader?

Kellen — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 08:13:54 +0000

Google issued a surprise update yesterday to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro without providing any info around it. However, last night, we noticed that Verizon shared the details, suggesting that the tiny 15MB update was here to fix the Pixel 6's slow and finnicky fingerprint reader. Of course, we've flashed the update already. I know that many of you have as well. So the question now has to be - did Google actually improve the fingerprint reader with software? At least a couple of our readers who updated right away - and before we knew this was aimed at fixing the fingerprint reader - had already mentioned that they thought it was quicker. Since you all know the fix at this point, many of you are fully convinced this thing reads fingers faster than ever. Few are non-believers, though, and we can't help but wonder if this is some placebo magic tricking our minds. I can tell you that I updated the minute the OTA files dropped, hours before we knew what the purpose of the update was. I didn't notice anything out of the ordinary, but maybe that's a good thing. Maybe the fingerprint reader was quick enough post-update that it blended perfectly into my life and was no longer a nuisance. I have been doing my best this morning to hit it from various angles and in different scenarios to test it and things do seem...better or quicker. Anyways, I hope this takes care of one of the Pixel 6's most annoying "features," but you'll have to tell us. Did Google do it?

There's a New Moto Watch, But Not the One You Want

Kellen — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 12:59:44 +0000

As much history as there is surrounding the Motorola name, the company has mostly been reduced at this point to a device maker who pumps out mid-range phones every other month and then licenses its name to companies who want to make accessories. Today, one of those licensees is back with a new Moto-branded wearable, and unfortunately, it's not of the Wear OS type. You may recall a company named eBuyNow from a couple of years ago, which created the most recent version of the Moto 360 watch. That company is back again today with a watch called the Moto Watch 100. Without having worn it, the easiest way to describe it is as a watch that compares to something like the OnePlus Watch or any of those devices made by Amazfit. Now, for those who have been following along all year, yes, there was evidence at one point that showed eBuyNow (or its parent company, CE Brands) with plans for up to three watches in 2021. A couple of them looked cheap, while at least one could have been the follow-up to the Moto 360 with a Snapdragon Wear 4100. This Moto Watch 100 appears to be in that "cheap" category. Available for pre-order today at $99.99 and shipping "by" December 10th, the Moto Watch 100 is a fitness focused device running some sort of new "Moto Watch OS" that most definitely isn't Wear OS. The Moto Watch 100 does feature pretty decent specs, like a 42mm aluminum case, 1.3" round always-on LCD display, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, 355mAh battery with quick charge (2 week battery life), 5ATM water resistance, heartrate monitor, and 20mm watch bands. It comes in Glacier Silver or Phantom Black. So who would buy this thing? Well, if you want a cheap fitness watch that looks pretty nice, it could be a decent option, assuming you trust eBuyNow's fitness skills in software. Because this watch pairs to a yet-to-be-released app that will track heartrate, SpO2, sleep, and 26 different types of workouts. It could be fine! But who is eBuyNow and what do they know about fitness tracking? There are countless fitness watches like this out there with proven track records, this one just happens to be blessed with Motorola's name.

If interested, you can buy (or pre-order) a Moto Watch 100 right here.

Google Releases New November Updates for Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro (Updated)

Kellen — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 11:23:54 +0000

Google just pushed out two new November Android builds for its Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones this morning, in a mid-month release we don't often see. For both phones, we have builds of SD1A.210817.037 and SD1A.210817.037.A1, where that A1 build is specific to Verizon customers. The other build is a global release for everyone. We are waiting for Google to tell us what these updates are for. Should we get that info, we'll update this post. It could be that this mid-month update is more of a true November build than what was mentioned a couple of weeks ago. After all, the builds that Google listed when they released this month's patch to other phones were basically the day-1 update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.

UPDATE: Verizon posted changelogs this evening and says that this particular update addresses the spotty fingerprint reader in each phone. Specifically, Verizon suggests this update "improves the performance of your device's fingerprint sensor." I guess we'll get to playing with it so we can decide if that holds true.
UPDATE 11/17: Google has now confirmed that the update "includes minor bug fixes and some fingerprint sensor performance improvements."

We also assume that Google should begin pushing these updates shortly (Settings>System>Advanced>System update), but if you don’t want to wait for Google and prefer to update manually, you will find each factory image or OTA file at the links below. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go. Links:

Verizon's Number Share Lets Alexa Become Your New Home Phone

Kellen — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 10:24:05 +0000

Have you always dreamed of being able to use Amazon's Alexa to make calls for you, calls that would show up on the other end as coming from your Verizon number? Or maybe another dream included receiving calls to your personal Verizon number through an Echo device in your kitchen? Your dreams are now reality. Verizon announced today that its Number Share feature can be paired with Amazon Alexa and your Alexa-equipped home devices to call people and/or receive calls. The feature is officially called "Number Share - Home" and it's free for up to 3 months (if you buy an Alexa device from Verizon) if you want to give it a shot. As you probably guessed, pairing your Verizon number with Alexa means you can say "Alexa, call Kellen" or "Alexa, dial 503-555-1234" and it'll do that as if you were calling from your phone. If someone calls your Verizon number, Alexa will announce who is calling, to which you can reply, "Alexa, answer." Don't want calls to route through Alexa all of the time? You can setup routines to deal with that, possibly around a work schedule or when you are typically home. You can also move live calls from Alexa devices to your phone if on Android. You probably noticed I said earlier that this is free for up to 3 months if you sign-up today. Yeah, that's because Verizon wants you to pay $5/mo per line after that. Think of it as a new type of home phone, assuming that's something you want. To get started, head over to the Verizon Number Share - Home sign-up page.

Google Maps Gets New Area Busyness Feature, More in Latest Updates

Tim — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 10:05:44 +0000

Google Maps is bringing a few new features this month, just in time for the holiday craziness. They are introducing a new Area Busyness feature, expanding the Pickup with Google Maps feature, as well as displaying price ranges for dining spots based on contributions from other Google Maps users. As detailed, the Area Busyness feature will literally show you when a certain area in a supported city is busy or not. This can help you plan your trip and could also lead you to know what to expect with regards to parking. Additionally, you can tap on a neighborhood to see how busy it is at different times of day, "along with the restaurants, shops, and recreational places (like a museum) within it, so you can decide if you want to visit," says Google. For Pickup with Google Maps, Google is simply expanding this existing feature to now over 2,000 Krogers Family locations, which includes Fry's, Ralphs, and Marianos. With the feature, once an order is placed with the retailer, Pickup with Google Maps lets you track your order status, share your ETA, and let the store know you've arrived. It's handy dandy, for sure. Lastly, Maps will now display price ranges for individuals on restaurant pages based on information collected from other Google Maps users. On top of that, Google says, "We’re also rolling out a simpler way to provide more detailed reviews about places, like whether or not a restaurant or cafe has things like outdoor seating, delivery options, curbside pickup and any features that customers should be aware of." A whole bunch of good stuff! // Google

Buy From Samsung, Pick Up From Best Buy With New 'Get It Today' Tool

Tim — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:27:44 +0000

Samsung and Best Buy have partnered to launch a new shopping tool called Get It Today. As the name suggests, you'll be able to shop Samsung's online store, buy items, then select your local Best Buy as a pickup location. This allows you to get your purchased items that same day if available. In our current world, where shipping times can be a little unpredictable, this is a great tool. If you're wanting to take advantage of this right now, Samsung has launched a few of its Black Friday deals a bit early. For example, snag a pair of Galaxy Buds Pro for $50 off, Galaxy Watch 4 for $50 off, or even $250+ off Galaxy Z Fold 3 with a free pair of Galaxy Buds 2. There's a whole bunch of goodies on there. This will be much nicer than playing a game of Who Knows when you order something online these days. So frustrating.

Shop Samsung

Verizon Starts Pushing One UI 4 Update to Galaxy S21 on Day 1 (Updated: More!)

Kellen — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 16:01:51 +0000

Samsung announced this morning that it is ready to start rolling out One UI 4 and Android 12 to the Galaxy S21 line and Verizon has quickly joined the party. All three of its Galaxy S21 devices should see the update as early as today. The update is hitting the Verizon Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra today with the following build numbers and November Android security patch:

Galaxy S21: SP1A.210812.016.G991USQU4BUK7
Galaxy S21+: SP1A.210812.016.G996USQU4BUK7
Galaxy S21 Ultra: SP1A.210812.016.G998USQU4BUK7

In case you missed our earlier coverage about Android 12 and One UI 4 together, the changelog posted this afternoon provides more details. Users should expect Color Palette customization using Android 12's wallpaper theming, new widgets (including redesigned lockscreen widgets), several new emoji features, grammar correction in the keyboard, tweaks to the camera UI, an improved video and photo editor, new editing tools in the Gallery app, a new Driving monitor in Digital Wellbeing, the Privacy Dashboard, a new charging animation, and support for Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) for those who need 2 phone numbers on a device. Again, Verizon lists the update as being available today, so feel free to check. You'll find it in Settings>System updates>Check for system updates. Let us know if you see it! Oh, and for those keeping track, assuming Verizon does indeed push these Android 12 updates today, they are a full month ahead of last year's December release of Android 11. Samsung still the king.

UPDATE 11/16: T-Mobile's S21 models are getting the update already too.

So About That Pixel Foldable...

Tim — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 15:11:30 +0000

According to the latest intel, that rumored Pixel Foldable device, the one many seemed to be hyped and waiting for, won't be coming anytime soon. This is relatively surprising news, as the stars were aligning on what could have been a special device, especially with Google detailing Android 12L so recently. It really seemed like Google was about to announce this foldable Pixel. The report comes from supply chain sources of DSCC, a firm well established in the world of all things consumer electronics. Most importantly, it's specifically noted that the Pixel Foldable, internal codename of Passport, won't launch in 2021 or in the first half of 2022. Beyond that, it could happen, but we had believed that the device would launch rather soon, as in before the end of 2021. It's thought that stiff competition, such as Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 3, in such a niche space would prove bad for the Pixel Foldable. And while that theory may not be far from the truth, it's our belief that Google has plenty of cash to spend on projects/products designed for true Google fans and that the Android team's work on Android 12L could have been quite intriguing on such a device. We'll likely hear more about this in the coming days and weeks, so stay tuned. // Display Supply Chain

T-Mobile's Good 5G Hits 200 Million People Milestone

Kellen — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:58:48 +0000

T-Mobile is celebrating today, as it reaches a new and important mark for its fast 5G. T-Mobile says that it has already reached its goal of covering 200 million people with Ultra Capacity 5G, weeks ahead of time. For those not familiar, Ultra Capacity 5G is T-Mobile's mid-band 5G, which arrives on top of/in addition to their nationwide or low-band 5G. When connected to Ultra Capacity 5G and you have a supporting phone, you'll see a "5G UC" logo letting you know to prepare for a better experience. And as you also likely know, mid-band is the important 5G band, where you get both coverage and speeds, unlike low-band (coverage with slow speeds) and mmW (super fast, you will never connect to it). Thanks to all of the 2.5GHz mid-band spectrum that T-Mobile acquired in their Sprint deal, they are far ahead of AT&T and Verizon when it comes to mid-band rollout. Both of those carriers bought a whole bunch of C-Band (mid-band) spectrum this year that they hope to push live soon in an attempt to catch T-Mobile. They are already running into issues and delays, though. T-Mobile says it will continue with its 5G UC rollout, with plans to hit 300 million people over the next two years. // T-Mobile

Ghostbusters Ecto-1 Vehicle Now Available in Waze

Tim — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:35:23 +0000

Waze is partnering with Sony Pictures to bring the iconic Ecto-1 vehicle from the Ghostbusters franchise to their navigation app, allowing users to turn their in-app car into a ghost busting machine. You'll find this new vehicle, along with all of the other options, inside of Waze's customization menu. And of course, the new Ghostbusters movie, Ghostbusters: Afterlife is in theaters later this week. Here's what it looks like in-app. I'm gonna throw this out there: The first Ghostbusters was great. Every single piece of Ghostbusters franchise since then? Not good and should go away. Have at it! // Mashable

Google Releases Wallpapers to Commemorate National Native American Heritage Month

Tim — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 11:41:24 +0000

November is National Native American Indian Heritage Month, and to commemorate this important time, Google has released a group of new wallpapers into the Curated Culture section of its Wallpapers app on select Pixel smartphones. Available for Pixel devices dating back to the Pixel 3, there are three new wallpapers: Wolf, Raven, and Raven's Eye. You'll notice that each will play very nicely with Android 12's Material UI theme engine, with the wallpapers also featuring a nice 3D appearance. 10/10, will definitely be rocking these. To apply these wallpapers on your own Pixel, long press on your home screen and tap "Wallpaper & Style." From here, hit "Change wallpaper," then go into the Curated Culture section. You should now see the 3 new wallpapers, but if you don't, they will be there soon. I can confirm they are on my Pixel 6 Pro already, but not on my Pixel 6. Enjoy. // @madebygoogle (Instagram Story)

Pixel 6 is Going to be $50 Off for Black Friday

Kellen — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 11:07:27 +0000

After seeing Google's Black Friday 2021 tease last week, we thought tradition would be broken and there wouldn't be a sale on the newly released Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. While Google may still hold off from discounting their new phones, other retailers are going to give us what we need. Target is previewing its Black Friday sale and they are indeed discounting the Pixel 6. For now, the best Black Friday deal on the Pixel 6 is a $50 price drop through Target and there don't appear to be any weird requirements. As far as we can tell, this is a straight $50 discount. At $50 off, the Pixel 6 with 128GB storage then becomes a $549 phone. It was already a ridiculously well-priced phone at $599, but this is, well, almost too good.

Target suggests that quantities at this price will be limited, plus we don't know which colors will be available. You should definitely be ready for when it drops, though. The Target Black Friday sale runs 11/21 through 11/27. They didn't say which day this one will go live. Also, if Target is doing this deal, don't be shocked if others follow in their footsteps. Google might not, but there is always a good chance that Best Buy or Amazon do.

Shop Pixel 6 at Target

Cheers Eric!

Samsung's Tizen-Powered Watches Get New Features and Watch Faces in Update

Tim — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 08:52:29 +0000

Samsung hasn't forgotten you, loyal Tizen-powered smartwatch owners. In fact, they love you so much, they have a sweet new update headed your way starting today. Inside, owners of the Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Watch Active, Galaxy Watch Active 2, and Galaxy Watch 3 will find new features, as well as new watch faces to keep things fresh. Now, not each watch gets every feature that Samsung lays out, but for the most part, it's a good update for all watches. For features, Samsung details advanced Fall Detection for the Galaxy Watch Active 2 and Galaxy Watch 3, as well as Group Challenges for the whole family of watches. As mentioned, there are updated watch faces to try on, available to all of the devices. You'll notice these watch faces first launched with the Galaxy Watch 4 line, but are now available to all.

Samsung says this update is rolling out starting this week, so Galaxy Watch owners, be on the lookout! Has anyone gotten it yet? // Samsung

Samsung Says Android 12 and One UI 4 are Ready for the Galaxy S21

Kellen — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 07:55:59 +0000

After several beta builds that added new features along the way, Samsung is ready to give the Galaxy S21 line its big Android 12 update with One UI 4. This morning, Samsung says that the update to One UI 4 will rollout starting today to the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra. I wouldn't call this a massive update in the same way that Android 12 was for Pixel phones, mostly because Samsung's One UI is already quite robust and pretty, but it still brings in some new goodness you'll want as soon as possible. Things like Color Palette, which is Samsung's take on Android 12's wallpaper theming, more rounded corners throughout the UI, improved widgets, new privacy controls, Extra Dim, and more emoji and GIFs and stickers, are all a part of this big update. For Color Palette, Samsung is letting you create a customized experience throughout your phone with colors that are pulled from the wallpaper you choose. You'll see these widgets, icons, menus, buttons, and backgrounds.

In Privacy, Samsung is including Android 12's new Privacy Dashboard where you'll find a snapshot of privacy settings on your phone, including the new camera and microphone toggles that let you completely turn those two items off. You'll also see clearly see which apps have been using all of those important permissions throughout the day. This One UI 4 update with Android 12 is available as early as today on the Galaxy S21 line, but if you are attached to a carrier, you'll have to wait for them to push it. We haven't seen the rollout begin in the US just yet, as far as I can tell. We'll let you know once it happens.

UPDATE: Verizon says it is pushing the update today!

// Samsung

YouTube TV Adds New Hallmark Channels for That Holiday Cheer

Kellen — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 11:21:43 +0000

YouTube TV added three new channels this week to allow us into the weird world of Hallmark movies. Yes, friends, we have new Hallmark channels in the line-up, and no, there isn't a price increase. If you look through your guide, you will now find the Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and Hallmark Drama, all there to give you an incredible list of movies that you would never admit to watching. It's OK, we know. The big pitch at the moment is Hallmark's holiday movie season, with titles like Open By Christmas, My Christmas Family Tree, Debbie Macomber’s A Mrs. Miracle Christmas, and Signed, Sealed, Delivered for Christmas. I won't watch any, but you sure should hit those comments and let me know if you do or that your significant other "forced you to." Again, you'll need to find these in your guide, which means a little work if you've setup a custom guide. To find Hallmark's channels, you'll have to edit your custom guide and then add these channels to it, assuming they are your thing. YouTube TV x Hallmark is here. With no price hike.

Pixel 'Superfans' Get Pixel 6 Socks and I'm Mad About It

Tim — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 12:44:38 +0000

Can you believe it? I've been hard at work, spreading the word across the interwebz that people should buy the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, meanwhile Google doesn't have the decency to send me a pair of freakin' socks. Grrr! If you don't know what I refer to, Google is sending out holiday gifts to members of its Pixel Superfans group, a group which I have tried to sign up for, but because I'm a blogger/super influencer who may be swayed to give a more favorable opinion when I receive free socks, am not allowed in the group. This some bull, y'all. As you can see in the photos here, shared by someone who probably isn't as much of a Pixel Superfan as I am, Google is sending out Pixel 6 Pro-branded socks, plus a Tensor SoC sticker. The socks give off a sweet Material You vibe, something the recipient probably doesn't even know about.

Hopefully most of you will understand that I'm just kidding around, but if I'm being serious, I would totally rock these socks and slap that Tensor sticker on my water bottle. Both of these gifts are dope. If you received either of these items and don't want them, let me know -- I'd like to buy them from you. Let me in, Google!

// 9to5Google

Fitbit's Daily Readiness Score is Here to Motivate You

Kellen — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 09:37:51 +0000

Fitness trackers and watches are far removed from the days of just counting steps or stairs or a GPS workout. Today, your fitness device should do so much more, by giving you more advanced heartrate metrics, sleep scores, breathing rate, etc. And if your tracker is really good, it'll try to predict how rested you are for the day with a score that can set you up to push your fitness to another level or maybe dial it back some. Fitbit is the latest company to get in on this trend with their own Daily Readiness Score. They first announced Daily Readiness back with the launch of the new Charge 5, but said at the time they were still working on it before pushing it to several devices. This week, it is ready and you can start accessing this feature right away if you have Fitbit Premium. Available now on the Charge 5, Sense, Versa 3, Versa 2, Luxe, and Inspire 2, the Daily Readiness Score from Fitbit uses your level of activity, heartrate variability (HRV) during sleep, and recent sleep patterns to provide you with a score each morning. That score (your Daily Readiness Score), starts at 100 (super ready!) and drops as its 3 key metrics are measured (if you drank too much or should just rest).

If you have a supported device and Fitbit Premium, you'll wake up to your new score with Activity, Recent sleep, and Heartrate Variability bars that describe how it came up with your score. In the screenshot above, you can see a score of 90 that is rated as "Excellent readiness" because this person had light activity the day before, moderate sleep, and a high HRV. Fitbit is then recommending they get after it for the day with at least 50 minutes of Zone training or high intensity workouts. The app will also let you know if you have "Good" or "Low" readiness and then recommend activities for those levels. You get the idea. To use this new Readiness score, Fitbit Premium will run you $9.99/mo or $80 per year. Is having a score like this worth paying for? I'm a WHOOP user and I can tell you that it is fully built around a daily readiness. I love the idea because I like to put my body through pain 5-6 days a week and it lets me know how hard I should go each day. Seeing Fitbit do a similar feature is a good thing, I think, because it can be a pretty big motivator for those looking to achieve fitness gains. However, if you use Fitbit casually and don't need it to tell you how hard to work, then yeah, it's probably not going to be very beneficial.

MEATER+ Smart Meat Thermometer, Best Invention Ever, Just $73 on Amazon

Tim — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 09:01:19 +0000

I fancy myself a little chef at home, but the only reason I have success is because I know which tools to use. Before MEATER came along, I wasn't so confident when it came to grilling steak and BBQ'ing chicken, but now with this handy little device in my life, I'm even having my wife cook up ribeyes and don't have to worry about getting served a hockey puck. It's magical. For a limited time, you can snag my favorite kitchen accessory, the MEATER+ smart meat thermometer probe, for only $73 on Amazon. That's down from its usual $99 price, which I always say is worth every penny. At this discounted price, it's a no-brainer stocking stuffer for any level cook in your life. To catch you up on the smart meat thermometer game, you have the probe and accompanying app on your phone. In the app, you'll select what you want to cook, the doneness you'd prefer, then insert the probe and get to cooking. MEATER+ will keep track of not just a meat's internal temperature, but also the ambient temperature surrounding the meat, which is what makes it ideal for smoking meats and all sorts of other methods. When your meat reaches the desired internal temperature, the app will notify you and that's it. It really couldn't be much more simple. If you think you would benefit from having MEATER+, follow the link below.

Amazon Link

Mmm, All the Juicy Galaxy S21 FE Details We Needed

Tim — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 08:29:58 +0000

Thanks to leaked marketing images, we're getting a really good look at the supposedly upcoming Galaxy S21 FE from Samsung. I say supposedly only due to the fact that this phone's fate has been in question for some time, with a chip shortage and successful Galaxy Z foldable launch both contributing to Samsung evaluating if this phone would even see light of day. As of today, it looks as if this phone will hit the market, but we're still curious if its availability will be limited to select regions. Anyway, let's talk about the phone. If these images are indeed legit, Samsung will highlight the phone's long-lasting battery life and hard-working processor. Specs include a Snapdragon 888 in select markets (Exynos in others), up to 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, 6.4-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, triple rear camera setup with the main shooter being a 64-megapixel sensor (along with a depth and wide angle camera), 4,500mAh battery (supports 15W charging), in-display fingerprint reader, Android 11 with One UI on top, and four color options (seen below).

Depending on price and availability, this could be a very solid pick-up for nearly anybody. Size wise, it'll be similar to the Pixel 6, as they both have 6.4-inch displays, though, Samsung's comes with the boosted 120Hz refresh rate. You can bet Samsung won't have the same pre-ordering issues as the Pixels did, too. The first FE was a surprise hit among Samsung fans, so it's good to see that the Galaxy S21 FE is shaping up. What do you think? Is this your next? // CoinBRS

DEAL: Galaxy Buds 2 at $99 ($50 Off) Seems Pretty Good

Tim — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 13:43:53 +0000

I suppose the holiday shopping season is in full swing now, so prepare for us to share deal upon glorious deal over the next month and a half. After all, we're deep in the age of consumerism, with no chip shortage or global supply chain issues getting in our goddamn way. Over on Woot!, you can snag a fresh (aka new) pair of Galaxy Buds 2 earbuds, Samsung's latest earbuds. Priced at only $99, which is $50 off the usual retail price for these buds, you get Active Noise Cancellation, solid battery life, really good audio quality, and a host of other features should you choose to pair them with a Galaxy smartphone. Woot! even has all four colors available -- Graphite, White, Olive, and Lavender. This isn't a bad deal, so if you need a stocking stuffer for someone or yourself, check it out.

Buy Here

AT&T Black Friday Deals Include $800 Off Pixel 6 Pro, BOGO Galaxy Watch 4 Offer

Tim — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 11:59:34 +0000

AT&T is launching a few of its Black Friday deals a bit early this year, and if you're tied to AT&T as your carrier, the deals look solid enough. For Android fans, the main highlights include $800 off the Pixel 6 Pro when you trade in an eligible device and purchase the phone on an installment plan. For those who aren't familiar with how that works, you'll purchase the device on a contract and receive monthly bill credits equalling to $800 over the course of the installment plan's life. It's a very standard practice among the carriers these days. For the smaller Pixel 6, AT&T has a deal that goes live on November 19 that gets you the device at 50% off (no trade-in required), when you buy the phone on an installment plan with an eligible unlimited plan. 50% off brings the price of a Pixel 6 down to just $299, which ain't bad at all. Another offer is a BOGO (buy one, get one) deal on the Galaxy Watch 4 series. As detailed, AT&T will grant you a free Galaxy Watch 4 in the form of monthly credits when you purchase two Galaxy Watch 4 smartwatches on installment plans. Obviously, this is rather suboptimal when it comes to a relatively inexpensive device, but at the end of the day, you're essentially getting a free Galaxy Watch 4, so it's there if "well qualified" people are interested. The Pixel 6 Pro and Galaxy Watch 4 offers begin tomorrow, November 12. // AT&T

Our First Look at the OnePlus 10 Pro?

Tim — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 09:37:52 +0000

Thanks to @OnLeaks, who has a solid history of providing early rendered looks at upcoming devices, we may be catching our first glimpse of the OnePlus 10 Pro this week. The renders are based on photos of a prototype OnePlus 10 Pro device, so what we see here can change dramatically, but if this is what OnePlus intends to offer, I must say that it looks pretty cool. On the backside, we have a triple rear camera setup, with housing that bumps out a bit from the body, similar in design to the Galaxy S21 lineup. Also notice the bit of texture on the metallic backside. If OnePlus was awesome, they'd bring back that Sandstone hotness. We've always been sick of fingerprint magnet glass and slippery devices. Bring on the textures, OnePlus. The only other things that sticks out is the Alert Slider, which has been on OnePlus devices since the beginning. Overall, this is a really sexy looking device. OnePlus has mentioned its upcoming devices, but only from a software stance, as earlier this year the company announced its new "unified OS," which is a grouping of OnePlus' OxygenOS and OPPO's ColorOS. Thanks to a timeline provided by OnePlus, we know that the next flagship device from the company will feature this unified OS, followed by an update rollout to other supported OnePlus phones. 2022 will be an important year for OnePlus. It's no secret that the company has been losing a bit of its popularity, with device pricing seeming to be the main issue among fans. OnePlus used to deliver the best of the best specs at a reasonable price, but now the company has had no issues charging Samsung and Apple level prices for devices that, while good, are rather uninteresting. Back to the OnePlus 10 Pro, this hardware could easily get me interested in what's to come, so fingers are crossed that we don't see them stray too far from what we see above. Thoughts? // Zouton

Google: No New Pixelbook on the Horizon

Tim — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 08:20:38 +0000

At a recent Qualcomm press event, Google's Retail Partner Manager for Chromebooks, Chrys Tsolaki, was asked about the company's plans for a new Pixelbook laptop. The provided answer, should you be concerned with Google's laptop business, may disappoint you. When asked if Google is planning any new Pixelbook devices, Tsolaki responded with, "Next year [2022] there won’t be anything coming. In the future, I don’t know.” While we can officially rule 2022 out for a new Pixelbook, I suppose we can look forward to 2023 at the earliest for a new device, but that's forever away. The comment doesn't provide much hope for the line, which is odd because Google is in a great spot to make a really good Pixelbook. It's time for a Tatodamus Prediction: I foresee a reworked Tensor processor powering a Pixel-branded laptop in the year 2024. Starting price is $579. Pixelbook fans, is this sad news or are you fulfilling your Chrome OS needs elsewhere? // Trusted Reviews

Face Unlock for Pixel 6 in Next Feature Drop? Probable.

Tim — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:53:55 +0000

Do you read Android blogs? Cool, then you probably know that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro's fingerprint reader doesn't rank high in popularity among its owners. While it may seem to be the only thing they talk about, it is one of the few negatives with the devices, so we suppose this should be seen as a good thing. Sure, they talk about update issues, charging speeds, and maybe the overall size (they must be Pixel 5 disciples like me), but for the most part, owners seem content. That's not to say they wouldn't mind an additional way to unlock their device, one that would allow them to bypass the fingerprint reader completely. I'm referring to Face Unlock, a feature that was reported to launch with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, but was apparently yanked out at the last minute for unknown reasons. With that said, it's been discovered in code that Face Unlock code is still mentioned on the devices, with a codename of Tuscany being designated to the feature. The code supposedly mentions that Google was and still currently is working to improve Face Unlock's performance on the devices. That could be why it didn't ship with the phones. If Google nails down performance, it's reported that we could see Face Unlock make its way to the Pixel 6 lineup in an upcoming Feature Drop, which take place a few times a year for Pixel phones. I'm sure this is welcomed news for all Pixel 6 owners, so we'll be sure to keep you posted. // XDA

Google Pixel Phones Get Update Asking Them to Download Android 12 Again

Kellen — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:40:56 +0000

Most Google Pixel owners updated to Android 12 a few weeks ago and then topped it off with a November patch last week. Today, for reasons we'll hopefully learn soon, a whole bunch of Pixel phone owners are once again being asked to update to Android 12 with a very large, almost 2GB file. Readers of ours, as well as dozens on reddit, have reported receiving the update on their devices. Owners of the Pixel 3a, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4, and Pixel 5 have all mentioned the prompt to grab a file around 1.8GB in size. Several users who took the update and trusted it enough to install it are saying that it finishes as build SP1A.211105.002.A1. That is indeed a November build, however, when initially released last week it was specific to Pixel owners running their phones on Verizon. Everyone else with a Pixel phone got builds SP1A.211105.002 or P1A.211105.003, but Verizon folks were given that ".A1" version. To be clear, a whole bunch of people across the globe who are not using their Pixel phones on Verizon are getting this update. Another interesting thing here is that Google doesn't appear to be pushing anything to the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, only these older models. We'll update this as we learn more.

Cheers Jim!

Unlocked Pixel 6 Units Face Weird Verizon Updates Situation (Updated!)

Kellen — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 08:46:33 +0000

A specific group of owners of the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro have run into a frustrating situation on Verizon. We're talking about those who bought unlocked units, tossed in a Verizon SIM card, and are trying to get the latest software update that Google released at launch. Days ago, readers started pinging us about this situation and I apologize if it seems like we are late. We've been putting off talking about it because we reached out to Google a couple of days ago to see if they could provide some sort of clarity on how they plan to update these unlocked Pixel 6 units who are using the phones on Verizon. We have not heard back and you keep asking about it, so here we are. We hope to hear back from them soon. There are dozens of stories on Google's own support forum (here and here) and reddit describing a situation where unlocked Pixel 6 devices have yet to receive the newest update from Google and are instead stuck on the software their devices shipped with. Specifically, these unlocked Pixel 6 and 6 Pro devices are stuck on SD1A.210817.019.C2. The current software versions that all Pixel 6 devices should be on are SD1A.210817.036 or SD1A.210817.036.A8. That second build, with the "A8" on the end is the build for anyone using a Pixel 6 on Verizon. The issue we are seeing is a Pixel 6 or 6 Pro running SD1A.210817.019.C2 and not getting an over-the-air update to SD1A.210817.036.A8. Why would that happen? Well, that "019.C2" build that unlocked Pixel 6 devices shipped with is just that, a build for unlocked units and most other carriers, while Verizon had its own "SD1A.210817.019.C4" build out of the gate. Folks with that "019.C4" build were pushed an update to "036.A8," because that's a Verizon software track. Why can't Google take folks on the unlocked "019.C2" build, recognize they are using a Verizon SIM, and then update them to the Verizon track with SD1A.210817.036.A8? Good question! That seems like something they should have figured out before launch and/or addressed by this point. For now, there are Google product experts on their forums recommending that people flash factory images or OTA files to get on the Verizon track and see updates into the future. That's, for numerous reasons, an absolutely ridiculous ask. No one should buy a phone from a company like Google and then be forced to install adb, download an update file, and walk through that process. Not that it's super difficult, it's just that you didn't buy a phone that needs to be manually updated in 2021. Google, the company who makes Pixel phones and delivers Android to them, should be able to update folks over-the-air, like every other phone. Again, we are waiting to hear back, so please don't rush out and start flashing files unless you are super comfortable doing so. My guess is that Google is going to fix this with the December update, but they have not yet confirmed those plans.

UPDATE 11/10 (1:45PM): We've heard from a couple of readers who have been prompted today with an update on their unlocked Pixel 6 devices connected to Verizon's network. The update weighs in at around 65MB and does indeed bring them to build SD1A.210817.036.A8. Google hasn't said anything yet, but it looks like they've started to fix the issue that was stopping folks from getting the latest update. If you are on Verizon and couldn't update, give it a try now.

Samsung November Updates: Galaxy S20 Family, Hit That Button

Kellen — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 07:34:36 +0000

So you own a Galaxy S20, the last phone from Samsung that I truly enjoyed and you are wondering when the November Android update is coming. I have good news for you - today is the day for many of you. The Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy S20 Ultra, and Galaxy S20 FE are all getting the November update through Verizon, which should mean just about everyone else is getting it too. This update, like all of the October and November, is a security patch and nothing else. Samsung isn't adding new features at the moment because they are saving them for the big Android 12 / One UI 4 update that should be here before long. What you'll find from this new build is the "most up to date Android security patches on your device." That's never a bad thing. Here are the new builds to look out for:

Galaxy S20: RP1A.200720.012.G981VSQS2DUJ7
Galaxy S20+: RP1A.200720.012.G986USQS2DUJ7
Galaxy S20 Ultra: RP1A.200720.012.G988USQS2DUJ7
Galaxy S2o FE: RP1A.200720.012.G781VSQS5DUK2

To grab that update, head into Settings>System updates>Check for system updates.

Google Breaks Black Friday Tradition With Pixel 6

Kellen — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 12:08:02 +0000

The end of 2021 has been host to several events we thought were borderline out of the question and have since shocked us. The Braves ended an insanely long championship drought, Yellowstone's return actually lived up to expectations, OpTic Gaming has merged with rival Envy, and now Google is on the verge of breaking a long-running Black Friday tradition. For many years in a row, Google has launched its new Pixel phone a few weeks before we hit the Black Friday shopping weekend and sells a good number to its biggest fans. It then proceeds to anger those same fans by dropping a big ol' discount on the phone they just bought (at full price) through the year's biggest shopping event. We had $50 off the Pixel 5 shortly after launch in 2020, $200 off (!) the Pixel 4 in 2019, and $150 off the Pixel 3 in 2018. The last time they didn't cut off a good chunk of a Pixel phone's price was with the Pixel 2, but they still offered $100 credit and some freebies. For 2021, Google won't piss off Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners - we think. The company pushed out its Black Friday 2021 preview today and the Pixel 6 isn't mentioned anywhere! Instead, we have $50 off the new Nest Doorbell (battery), $50 off Pixel 5a, $10 off Chromecast with Google TV, $50 off Nest Hub (2nd Gen), $40 off Nest Audio, and more. But again, the only phone they are (so far) previewing is the Pixel 5a. Now, keep in mind that I'm both happy and sad that we aren't seeing a Pixel 6 discount. I'm of the early adopter group, who would be upset that I paid $100 or so more than Black Friday shopping guy. But I'm also disappointed that a bunch of you won't see a discount on Google's best phones in years. I can't say that it's at all surprising that Google wouldn't discount these phones at the moment. Both are already so reasonably priced that there may not be much room for them to move. Both phones are also sold out in most colorways and storage options, with waitlists that stretch for weeks, so there aren't really any phones for them to sell or discount. Either way, Google could bring out a last minute discount for Black Friday, but the chances seem slim for this year.

Twitter Blue Available in US for $3/Month, If You're a Sucker

Tim — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 11:28:43 +0000

Twitter Blue, the platform's $2.99/month subscription service, is now available widespread across the US, looking for any potential Android suckers who forget that Twitter is actually a free thing to use and want essentially zero return on money spent. Twitter Blue offers subscribers various perks, though, Android users are getting super screwed compared to those on iOS. For example, Twitter Blue comes with ad-free reading experiences from sites such as The Washington Post, L.A. Times, USA TODAY, and The Atlantic. There's a whole solid list of ad-free reading sites, but this isn't available to Android users. Another awesome perk is the ability to customize the look of your Twitter app, with custom themes and even customizable navigation buttons that quickly dive you into whatever section of Twitter you love most. Obviously, that's not available for Android either.

What do Android users get with Twitter Blue?

Something that's actually exclusive to Android is a new Top Articles section, which is essentially a different sort of Trending page, with articles that have been most shared in your network being placed on a list. Boring. General perks for Twitter Blue include an Undo Tweet button, which is for those who can't take the time to proofread tweets before hitting send, categories for your bookmarks, as well as entry into Twitter Blue Labs. In Blue Labs, you'll test Twitter features ahead of everyone else, but yeah, Labs is exclusive to desktop and iOS users. Twitter Blue is a ripoff for Android users. DON'T DO IT. // Twitter

Adaptive Sound Magically Appears on Pixel 6 Lineup

Tim — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 09:07:11 +0000

Adaptive Sound, a feature with the intention of improving your smartphone's speakers, has randomly appeared on Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro units. As far as anyone can tell, the feature isn't part of an update that rolled out, but instead, has simply come into existence, possibly from a place beyond our own dimension. The way it works is pretty sweet. Adaptive Sound uses your phone's microphone to "assess the acoustics near you," then automatically adjusts your phone's EQ settings based on your environment. As detailed, you won't hardly notice it if you have your volume cranked, but there could be minor improvements when listening at lower levels. And for the privacy-minded, Google ensures that all sound clips taken will never leave your device and all processing is handled on a device level. The timing of this is good. It's like a bonus feature that Google rolled out, as other features are being seemingly stripped, such as actual 30W fast charging. I realize there is a lot of semantics at play with that issue, but seriously, I will not forgive and will not forget what Google has done here with fast charging on the Pixel 6 Pro. It's so odd and so lame. If you're looking for other reasons to still purchase the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, check out our 5 Reasons video below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_ZKC_w24rs // Android Police

Google Puts a Price on Its Nest Hub Sleep Tracking

Kellen — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 07:50:59 +0000

When Google announced the new Nest Hub (2nd Gen) earlier in the year with a Soli radar chip and sleep tracking, they made it clear that this feature would not be free forever. With the launch of the device, they were giving everyone a free preview until "next year" before unveiling their plans to monetize it. Those plans are now official.

How much does Nest Hub's Sleep Sensing cost?

The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) will keep free sleep tracking (called "Sleep Sensing") through 2022. Starting in 2023 (we don't know specific dates yet), Google will attempt to integrate Sleep Sensing into Fitbit Premium. Fitbit Premium, for those not aware, currently costs $9.99 per month or $80 per year. So if you want to keep using a Nest Hub for Sleep Sensing in 2023 and beyond, you will need to subscribe to Fitbit Premium. Confused by the attachment of a Nest Hub and Fitbit? We are too! We know that Google owns Fitbit now and they must have plans to mush all of their products together on some level, they just haven't told us how they plan to do that yet, outside of bringing Fitbit's software to Wear OS and releasing a future wearable that goes beyond the smarts of a Versa or Sense. This is one of the first steps we've seen from them, and it makes some sense, even if Nest and Fitbit are such distant product types.

More Sleep Sensing features

Since initially launching Sleep Sensing earlier this year, Google says it has worked on improvements that will begin rolling out this week. those new features include more info on light, deep, REM, and awake periods throughout the night, as well as Duration and Quality screens showing how long you were in each stage. Sounds detected during sleep will also now be more specific in letting you know if those sounds (like snoring) came from you or someone/thing else in the room. // Google

Verizon is Offering Select Customers 999GB of Bonus Data for $5

Kellen — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:16:33 +0000

Rarely do we see a promotion from a carrier like Verizon and say, "What in the world - that's a crazy good deal!" We're saying that right now, though, thanks to a promotion that select customers have received over the past couple of months that gives them more bonus data than most of us will ever use in a single month. First pointed out to us by a reader of ours and then spotted a few more times on the Verizon subreddit, it sure looks like Verizon is handing people 999GB of bonus data per month for as low as $5. Verizon hasn't posted this promotion publicly, nor do they have a FAQ for it, as it seems very targeted and limited. Most of the recipients of the offer are on older tiered data plans, like those S-M-L-XL plans from 6 years ago, or shared buckets between multiple lines. One person was on a 4GB plan, another was on an 8GB plan, and the screenshots below show someone on a 16GB Verizon XL plan. Verizon does have a Bonus Data FAQ that says the following plans are eligible:

Shared Data Plan – 5GB
Shared Data Plan – 10GB
The new Verizon Plan shared data plan (e.g., S, M, L)
The Verizon Plan
The MORE Everything® Plan

With this bonus offer, I've seen $5 upgrades and $10 upgrades (some might have gotten it for free), but all are giving people 999GB of bonus data per month. Yes, almost a full 1TB of data to use on top of the tiered data they were already paying for.

What makes this deal even wilder is the fact that because it's bonus data, it carries over to the next month. So if you were lightly using your account because you were previously on a 4GB shared plan and barely tap into that 999GB, you could hit 2TB of data the following month and possibly more in the next. And again, this isn't a 1-time bonus data dump - it's every month. The text in the image above from a person's account says "You will get 999GB of extra data for $10 each month, for as long as you remain on your current plan." You would lose it if you change plans or switch to an unlimited plan, so yeah, if you get this, you should never change plans again. I wish I could tell you all how to get this deal, because it's one of the best I've ever seen in this business. However, it's likely super targeted to some of those plans I mentioned above. If you are on one of those, it would be worth logging into your account and poking around at available plan options and add-ons. Cheers Matthew!

Tips to Troubleshoot the Pixel 6 Fingerprint Reader

Kellen — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 09:16:30 +0000

We now know that the Pixel 6 fingerprint reader is "enhanced" and thus slow, but if you are running into additional issues outside of its sluggishness, Google has posted a few ways you can potentially troubleshoot. From the time of day you are using the Pixel 6 Pro's fingerprint reader to the way it sleeps to screen protector issues, here is a list of Google's suggestions to make your unlocking experience better.

Use an official Pixel 6 screen protector

Google has posted an official Pixel 6 screen protector list of brands, because it knows that you all love screen protectors and also that using an unsupported covering could cause issues with the fingerprint reader. To make sure you reduce the chances of the fingerprint reader being mad about the additional protection you've put on top of it, try one of the following:

ZAGG: Glass Elite
Otterbox: Clearly Protected Film Screen Protector
PanzerGlass: PanzerGlass screen protector (not available yet)

These are all "Made for Google" approved accessories and are supposed to work the best. Unfortunately, most are out of stock or not available yet, so set some watches on these and snag one when you can.

Avoid the sun

This is serious, even if it sounds silly, but using your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro outdoors in bright sunlight can cause issues. To better help the chances of your fingerprint reader working in this situation, Google suggests fully covering the sensor and firmly pressing. The goal here, since this is an optical reader that blasts light into your finger to read it, needs a proper seal to make sure all of that light is directed at your fingerprint.

Show fingerprint reader when asleep

You might have noticed that your fingerprint reader's silhouette doesn't show at all times when your phone is asleep or in a screen-off state. That's probably by design, but you can actually force that fingerprint spot to show more often, including on your always-on display to give you another option to scan your finger without needing to wake it. I'm talking about that state in the image at the top of this post, for example. To get your phone to look like that and show its fingerprint at all times, you head into Settings>Display>Lock Screen and then toggle on the box for "Always show time and info."

Other tips from Google

Google is also including some general sort-of-obvious thoughts on how to improve the fingerprint reader experience, with suggestions like making sure you have the latest Android update (they could have issued fixes or improvements), pressing and holding firmly on the sensor until your phone unlocks, and cleaning your display of dirt and smudges. A couple of semi-comical suggestions they toss out include moisturizing those dry ass fingers of yours and also only using fingers that you've actually enrolled as fingerprints. Come on, guys, you can do this.

The Pixel 6 Fingerprint Reader is Slow Because It's "Enhanced"

Kellen — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 08:16:46 +0000

Overall, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are quite excellent phones, the best Google has made to date. In our reviews of each, we had few complaints and will likely stick with Google's new devices going forward because of their excellent cameras and software, among other things. But if there has been one mostly universal complaint about these two phones, it's with the fingerprint reader. It's slow and not wonderful to use. Over the weekend, the official @madebygoogle Twitter account responded to a Pixel 6 owner who was complaining about the in-display reader having trouble reading his finger. The Google rep suggested that there's a good reason that this particular fingerprint reader can be slow, and that's because it "utilizes enhanced security algorithms."

READ: Tips to improve Pixel 6 fingerprint reader

It's OK to giggle at that for a minute.

They continued by suggesting those algorithms are an added protection that can lead to longer verification times and that "more direct contact" with the sensor should help. But look, the performance of this thing has been documented heavily at this point and there's no question that it's slower than most. It often struggles to read, sometimes just stops trying to read your finger mid-way through an unlock session, and is flat out slow even during a good read. The fingerprint reader on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro is going to be a frustration going forward, and we've sort of accepted that. Again, the cameras, software, update schedules, performance, and price points make these very good phones, they just happen to have this sore spot. Unless Google has a magic software update in the works that can fix this (and I'm not sure I believe that's possible), then we'll deal with it. Or, you know, they could give us a face unlock.

So, Um, the Pixel 6 Pro Apparently Doesn't Charge at 30W

Kellen — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 11:31:10 +0000

The Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are supposed to be the company's fastest charging phones to date. With a specs sheet and related promo materials all touting each phone's 30W wired capabilities, Google has finally given us devices that shouldn't take so freakin' long to juice back up, assuming you happen to have one of their sold-separately 30W chargers. As it turns out, after a bit of testing, Google's claims of 30W charging may not be accurate. Well, or maybe we all just assumed the phones were that capable, yet aren't. Through several rounds of testing using a number of different chargers, all of which were capable of pushing 30W speeds, the folks at Android Authority are calling 30W charging on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro a "myth."

READ: Google Pixel 6 Pro review

They used the official 30W Google charger that launched alongside the Pixel 6, an Anker Nano II, Samsung 45W Travel Adapter, and an Elecjet X21 Pro. From none of those chargers did they ever see a full 30W of charging speeds. During tests, where both Adaptive Charging and Adaptive Battery are turned off, Google's new Pixel 6 line basically topped out at 22W and averaged 13W for a full charge cycle. So no, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro don't actually charge at 30W. That's not all, though.

With an average of 13W during a charging session, to get a device like the Pixel 6 Pro and its 5000mAh battery back to a 100% charge, it takes roughly 111 minutes. Google has setup the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro to only charge at 22W for the first 50% or so before tapering it off. This is common, but the tapering seems to be pretty dramatic once it starts, thus the reason it takes so long to charge one of these phones. As an example, the charts above show the Galaxy S21 Ultra sitting at between 20W and 27W until the phone reaches an 85% charge. At that point, Samsung begins tapering. To get the S21 Ultra and its 5000mAh battery to 100%, it takes around 1 hour. So Google's Pixel 6 Pro, with the same size battery, takes almost twice as long because of the aggressive drop during a charging session after the 50% mark. What's the takeaway? Well, if you look close enough, you'll see that Google doesn't actually say anywhere that its new phones can charge at 30W. They simply callout that the Google 30W charger can be used with the phones to reach a 50% charge in about 30 minutes. These phones do just that - 50% in 30 minutes. Sooooooo, yeah! We all pretty much assumed that Google was selling a 30W charger for their new phones because they could charge at 30W, yet here is a pretty substantial amount of evidence that they charge at a top speed of 22W. They also charge very slowly because of an aggressive taper at the 50% mark. Google's new phones, at least for now, are not charging champions.

Real Galaxy S22 Ultra Gets a Big Leak With Its S Pen

Kellen — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 09:25:56 +0000

Now that Google and Apple have announced their phones for the year, our focus switches back to Samsung and their upcoming Galaxy S line, one that is expected to feature the Galaxy S22 Ultra. Previous leaks have suggested it will be an odd-looking phone with S Pen and a very Galaxy Note-esque design. Today, photos of a real-world device that could very well be the Galaxy S22 Ultra are here, and yeah, Note lovers should be quite happy.

As you can see from the images above, the Galaxy S22 Ultra in this current form has a matte black finish with rear camera housing in a P-arrangement. This would be the third design we've seen, although this one looks quite finished on this real device with each camera standing on its own. The previous two sets of renders, where the designers weren't sure what to make of the camera setup were both...awful. While this brings back memories of the LG Velvet, it's much cleaner than all renders thus far. The camera setup is reportedly made up of 108MP main and 12MP ultra-wide lenses, along with a pair of 10MP telephoto shooters. I'm sure the cameras will be great, like they were on the S21 Ultra, even if they might not be much different.

The rest of the story here is what's on the bottom of the phone. Yep, that's an S Pen sticking out of the device. For the Galaxy S22 Ultra, Samsung is going to bring back an integrated S Pen and fully turn the highest-end Galaxy S into a Galaxy Note without the name. In case you forgot, Samsung killed off the Note line after the Galaxy Note 20 and gave us foldables in place of a Note 21. I'm not sure how I feel about this move, but I also can't say I dislike it. The S Pen certainly comes in handy for power users and the add-on version of it for the S21 Ultra never seemed quite right. Being able to pop the S Pen out of the a device was always the best idea, so I'm at least glad to see that is back here. For Galaxy S purists (is that a thing?), you'll have to tell me what you think. For Note lovers, you've got to be happy, right?

Gmail on Android Shrinks Bottom Bar, Drops the Labels

Kellen — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 08:18:13 +0000

As Google continues to update its core apps with its Material You styling, it's still working on those that were updated early on that still have planned tweaks to be made. Gmail is one of those examples, as it was one of the first to pick up its new design back in early September. Today, Google appears to be rolling out subtle-yet-lovely changes that it teased over a month ago that mostly benefit those who use the Chat or Meet tabs. The Gmail app on my Pixel 6, which is still on version 2021.10.03.404390235 and did not receive an update today, is now showing a further shrunken bottom navigation bar that lacks labels for Mail, Chat, Spaces, and Meet. It takes up a lot less space than the bar Gmail has had for months with the labels under each tab. It now matches up to the iOS version of Gmail. Google first showed off this version when it previewed a bunch of Material You app updates through its Workspace blog, but we had yet to see them push out the change. This is (obviously) some sort of a server-side rollout since my Pixel 6 Pro on the same Gmail version doesn't have this new look. Tim's phones don't either.

While that smaller navigation bar is greatly appreciated, my Gmail is also showing a "Hide bottom navigation on scroll" option to the settings area. As you can probably understand from its name, checking the box for this option does indeed hide the bottom bar as you scroll. Again, this is really only important or useful if you keep the Chat and Meet tabs on, otherwise there isn't a bottom nav bar. This feature isn't showing on both phones of mine with the same Gmail version, it's only showing on the phone that has the new navigation bar. To check to see if your phone has this option, open Gmail, then the Settings>General settings and the option will sit below the "Conversation list density" and "Mail swipe actions." Google has mentioned this "hide" option on a support page, but it looks like an option that was added without much publicity in August or so. Anyways, cool!

Gmail is fun.

Google's Pixel Foldable Won't Have the Super Fancy Pixel 6 Camera

Kellen — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 16:18:54 +0000

For foldable devices in these early days, the companies making them appear to be willing to lower the quality of the camera systems they include, likely as a bit of a trade-off for the super cool foldable technologies they've prepared to "wow" the world with. I say that because the Galaxy Fold line from Samsung never quite matches the high-end camera systems used in devices like the Galaxy S Ultra range. Instead, as an example, Samsung has tossed in three solid 12MP shooters on the Fold 3 that can get the job done, just not on the level of a phone like the Galaxy S21 Ultra. For Google's upcoming Pixel foldable, they are reportedly taking a similar approach. According to 9to5Google, who dug deep into a Google Camera app, Google won't match the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro's camera systems and will instead use their famous 12MP camera that was featured in the Pixel 3 through the Pixel 5. The files they dug into revealed a Pixel foldable codenamed "Pipit" that is expected to use that familiar Sony IMX363 sensor, as well as a Sony IMX386, which is an ultra-wide lens. That could mean a rear camera setup on the Pixel foldable that's very similar to what we saw on the Pixel 5. Since that camera is absolutely capable, this isn't the worst news. There are other references to a Sony IMX355 camera being used in two places. Those two places should be on a front cover or "outer" display and on an internal or "inner" display, so we're talking about 8MP selfie shooters here. And finally, all of this fun camera info has been spotted alongside a reference of "isPixel2022Foldable." In case you are having trouble reading that, this wording appears to confirm that Google will release a Pixel foldable in 2022. That shouldn't surprise you knowing that they just announced Android 12L, a version of Android built for foldables, and plans to release Android 12L "early next year, in time for the next wave of Android 12 tablets and foldables.” To recap, the Pixel foldable codenamed "Pipit" sure looks ready for a release in 2022, but don't expect it to have the fancy camera system Google released with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Instead, expect a camera system closer to the Pixel 5.

VIDEO: 5 Reasons to Buy the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro

Tim — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 14:05:06 +0000

If you're in the market for a new phone, allow us to provide you with 5 reasons to consider the new Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro from Google. If you've been with us for a while, you'll know this 5 Reasons series dates back a few years, but for the Pixel 6 lineup, we've decided to try it in a new video format. Now, we're giving you 5 reasons to buy the Pixel 6, but in just 5 minutes.

Full Reviews: Pixel 6 | Pixel 6 Pro

5 minutes isn't very long, so in the below video, you'll hear me plow through the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro's upgraded camera system, Android 12 software, the hardware, and more. Give it a watch and share your thoughts below. Are these reasons enough to convince anybody to buy this phone? Heck, they should! These are great phones at killer prices. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_ZKC_w24rs&ab_channel=DroidLife

Samsung November Updates: Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Flip 3 are Go

Kellen — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 13:23:35 +0000

You always love to see fresh updates for a new month rollout within the first few days of the month and that's happening with Samsung's newest foldables. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 are already grabbing the November Android security patch. This is the same patch that hit Google Pixel phones a few days ago, and just like those it doesn't introduce anything new. For Samsung's phones, we are still waiting for the big Android 12 update, so for now, these security patches are there to improve security and not do much else. The new builds are:

Galaxy Z Fold 3: RP1A.200720.012.F926USQS1AUJ6
Galaxy Z Flip 3: RP1A.200720.012.F711USQU2AUJ6

Samsung and Verizon list changes as providing "the most up to date Android security patches for your device." That's it. To check for the updated, head into Settings>System update>Check for system updates.

Verizon and AT&T Delay Their Good 5G Because of Air Safety Concerns

Kellen — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 10:34:45 +0000

5G up until this point has been a massive bust that has changed little about our lives and rarely lives up to the hype pushed by the makers of 5G modems (Qualcomm!) and their carrier partners. The reason 5G has been a bust thus far in the US is because a couple of US carriers (Verizon and AT&T) made the wrong bet. They put all of their early push behind super speedy millimeter wave (mmW) 5G that almost no can access, but sure looks good in a press write-up about controlled environment download speeds. So because Verizon and AT&T made the wrong bet, they are playing catch-up to T-Mobile, who put its early 5G focus on all of the mid-band 5G they acquired when they took in Sprint. The mid-band, you see, is the type of 5G that's both fast and can cover big areas of this Earth, so accessing it is actually a thing that could happen regularly, unlike with mmW. Verizon and AT&T recently bought a bunch of mid-band spectrum to try and re-write their 5G story. In a spectrum auction earlier this year, both bought a bunch of C-Band spectrum that will help them fill this mid-band void and start delivering a real 5G experience over the coming years. Unfortunately, they've both hit a bit of a snag with their C-Band launch because the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has a concern over safety. According to the FAA (via Bloomberg), both AT&T and Verizon have announced that they will pause their C-Band launches for about a month. The initial go-live was apparently December 5 and will now be January 5. The FAA is worried that this C-Band 5G spectrum could cause issues with radar altimeters, which measure how close an aircraft is to the ground. Some of the uses include landing when in a low visibility situation, offering anti-collision warnings, and pushing a warning if a pilot is inadvertently too low. A month delay isn't much, so the concern must be one all parties think can be taken care of quite quickly. We'll let you know how this shakes out.

You've had the Pixel 6 for a Week: Thoughts Now?

Kellen — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 08:08:33 +0000

A week ago today, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro landed through a launch party of sorts, with the majority of pre-orders arriving on the doorsteps of those willing to give Google's new phones an early shot. We asked for your initial thoughts then, because it's always fun to share your immediate impressions of a new phone, especially one that you might hang onto for a couple of years. But now, it has been a full week and I'm sure your thoughts on the Pixel 6 line have adjusted. Crazy to think that your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro is now a week old, right? You've taken lots of pictures. Your battery has cycled several times and tried to learn from your habits. You've tweaked the wallpaper enough to get it and it's Material You colors just right. You likely used the phone on WiFi and then felt that warmth of the modem on 5G or LTE. You took it for a car ride, used navigation, and played some music. You have had the chance to do most stuff within a week, I'd assume. So, what are your thoughts now? Has Google nailed it with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro? What are you liking and disliking so far? Have you decided that this is the phone for you or have you already boxed it up, sent it back, and asked for that refund? Let us know.

Telegram Gets Interactive Emoji, Calendar for Shared Media, and Much More

Tim — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 14:22:31 +0000

Telegram has yet another update inbound for users, full of new goodies focused on media and emoji. iOS users get a few bonus things, but whatever, we don't care about those silly iPhones. Inside the update, headed out to all users this week, you'll find Interactive Emoji, which literally explode off of the screen when you tap on them. When a friend is watching your emoji, you'll get a message that it's being viewed. Additionally, Telegram is adding a calendar view for Shared Media. With this, you'll be able to look back at dates and the media that's been shared between users for that date. This can be quite helpful.

On top of that, hyperscrolling has been added. To use it, you can zoom out of media and then drag your finger along the side to quickly scroll through any media you have sent to another user. If you're the type to share lots of videos and photos, this could also be quite clutch. Lastly, there's a new setting for those who manage channels and groups. When sending out links to join, you can add a new Request Admin Approval setting, which will require an admin to approve any incoming person to a channel or group. No more randos joining your secret society channel. Telegram, the app that keeps getting better.

Download Telegram

// Telegram

Samsung's Galaxy Watch 4 Gets a Big $50 Discount

Kellen — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 10:33:15 +0000

The best Galaxy Watch 4 deals are here in a pre-Black Friday promotion from Samsung and some of its retail partners. The best Wear OS watch you can buy is currently $50 off, dropping its starting price to $199. At the moment, Samsung is offering $50 off both the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, so we're talking $199 or $299 prices, respectively. Other retailers are currently only offering $50 off the regular Watch 4 and $30 off the Classic. We'll see if that changes over the next several hours. You should probably jump on these deals if you've been eyeing Samsung's newest watches. $199 for that regular Watch 4 is a heck of a price point, as is $299 for the Classic. Remember, these watches not only run Wear OS 3 and have all the next-gen watch tech, but comparable Wear OS watches without Wear OS 3 are all priced at $299 or higher. Need a recap on these two watches? Read our Watch 4 review here and Watch 4 Classic review here.

Shop $50-off Galaxy Watch 4 deals:

Samsung: Galaxy Watch 4 | Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
Amazon: Galaxy Watch 4
Best Buy: Galaxy Watch 4

Netflix Games Available to All Android Users This Week

Tim — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 08:49:14 +0000

If you browse the Netflix app on your Android device this week, you'll see a whole new row dedicated to its mobile gaming initiative. That's right, Netflix is making its games more widely accessible, after having made it available only to users in Poland earlier this year. Testing must have gone smoothly. Currently, there are only five games to play. The titles are Stranger Things: 1984, Stranger Things 3: The Game, Shooting Hoops, Card Blast, and Teeter Up. To access the games, you'll see a new dedicated Games tab, plus a whole new row in the Netflix interface when scrolling through titles. Essentially, if you look at the Netflix app, you can't miss the games section. Happy gaming. // Netflix

Pixel 3 Will Actually Get a Final Update Early Next Year

Kellen — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 07:57:01 +0000

The 3 years worth of "guaranteed" updates for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL were supposed to end in October when both phones received the update to Android 12. With the arrival of November's Android security patch earlier this week to kick off a new month, the Pixel 3 line was indeed left out of the fun. However, we know that in the past Google has pushed a final update to phones after their guaranteed period has ended, like they did last year with the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. They took a month from the guaranteed period end to prepare an update that hopefully put the Pixel 2 in a position of stability going forward, knowing there wouldn't be anymore patches. For the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, Google is doing the same. Google has confirmed to us that they will push a "final, sunset update in Q1, 2022." They didn't say what was included, but like the Pixel 2, I'd imagine it'll take care of any major bugs from Android 12 and get the phone in a decent spot to continue working if folks are hanging onto them. So if you own a Pixel 3, you have one more update to look forward to.

Pixel 6 Buyers, Your Free Pixel Buds A Coupon Code is in Your Inbox

Tim — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 10:16:22 +0000

If you're like me and Kellen, you were too busy trying to purchase a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro on October 19 to remember that Google was offering a free pair of Pixel Buds A earbuds with your new phone purchase. In order to get that deal, you had to have the Pixel Buds A in your cart, and given all of the Google Store's issues on October 19, many people either forgot or simply didn't try to redeem the free earbuds.

Pixel Buds A Review: Pretty Good Buds

Thankfully, Google announced earlier that it would send out codes to those who were eligible to receive a free pair of buds -- "eligible" meaning those who purchased a Pixel 6 or 6 Pro but didn't get the free earbuds. This morning, those codes are rolling out to inboxes, with both Kellen and I receiving an email from Google. All you'll need to do is click "Redeem Offer" in the email, choose which color of Buds A you want, then checkout. A coupon code will automatically be applied to your cart, making the $99 earbuds show as free. Your free Buds A will then arrive at your doorstep at some point. Mine show as being delivered between December 4-7. Jesus. Thank you, Google.

You'll Soon See Groupon Deals Inside the Google Pay App

Tim — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 08:36:39 +0000

Groupon, the service that's good at saving you money on local experiences and adult toys, announced a new partnership with Google Pay this morning. The partnership will bring Groupon's deals right to the Google Pay app, opening up Pay users to lots of savings on local goods. Google says that by teaming up with Groupon, "We’re able to help more small businesses make connections with consumers who are eager to get out and explore the world around them." We don't yet know exactly how this will look in the app, as it's not expected to launch inside of Google Pay until some time during the first half of 2022. We'll keep you posted on when it goes live. I do love me some Groupon. // Groupon

Improve the Fingerprint Reader on Your Pixel 6 With This Simple Trick

Tim — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 14:20:11 +0000

As the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro begins arriving at more doorsteps this week, new owners will begin to realize the phones do not ship with the best fingerprint scanning experience money can buy. Unfortunately, that's simply par for the course when it comes to optical in-display fingerprint readers. It's not really Google's fault, the tech just isn't that great. However, we did come across a tip that has at least improved the reader's ability to recognize our thumbprint, in turn minimizing our frustration with it. As we saw mentioned on a few of our articles, you can add your main unlocking print (such as your right or left thumb) more than one time onto the device, creating a better profile for the biometric scanner to cross reference when you place your finger/thumb down onto the display to unlock it. For example, I saved my right thumb to the phone twice and ever since doing so, I've been having a much better time and getting a lot fewer misreads. In fact, if my candy-filled memory serves me right, I haven't had any misreads since I did this trick late last week. Because of that, this trick gets my stamp of approval. Does it speed up the reader? Lol, no, but it at least recognizes my thumb when I place it on the screen. To add another fingerprint profile to your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, head to the Security section of the Settings menu. Scroll down a little bit and you'll see Fingerprint Unlock. Once inside, hit "Add fingerprint." Go through the process and you'll now have another print stored in the phone's memory. I hope this helps at least a few of you. We see the comments and know the fingerprint reader is causing some issues, so while we wait for Google to somehow push a software update that solves a hardware issue, this will hopefully improve your situation. Cheers all for this tip!

Galaxy Z Fold 3, Z Flip 3 Get First Taste of Android 12 With One UI 4.0 Beta

Tim — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 11:41:05 +0000

Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 owners in the US have been granted access to the One UI 4.0 beta this week, allowing them to get their first taste of Android 12 on Samsung's latest foldables. If you're new to the One UI 4.0 game, no fret, as we've gone over changes previously when it was released for the Galaxy S21 series. Long story short, it's going to be an exciting update with Samsung bringing a few of the sweet customization changes Google highlights with Material You on its Pixel devices. It's still One UI, but it's definitely Android 12, if that makes sense. To get in on the Android 12 action, enroll your device into the Beta via the Samsung Members app. If you aren't seeing the banner in the app, we're seeing users access it from the Benefits tab. Happy flashing and happy testing! // SamMobile

Google Fixed a Whole Bunch of Android 12 Bugs on Pixel Phones Today

Kellen — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 11:24:57 +0000

Android 12, at least the stable version, is now a full two weeks old and has shipped to more devices than ever. Google has taken that two weeks to address a laundry list of bugs in the November Android patch that just dropped, with fixes for devices from the Pixel 3a up through the new Pixel 6. Once you update your Pixel 3a, Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, or Pixel 6 to the new build, these are items that Google may have taken care of:

Audio: Fix to prevent issues with notification sounds in certain conditions
Stability: Stability improvements for certain third-party apps
System UI: Fix to prevent incorrect app icon after installation in certain conditions
System UI: Fix to prevent issue with keyboard displaying over apps in certain conditions
System UI: Fix for hidden UI elements in certain conditions
System UI: Fix to improve transition animation performance in Overview screen in certain conditions

Here are specific fixes for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro:

Bluetooth: Improvements for audio quality in certain scenarios
Power: Improvements for wireless charging behavior in certain orientations
System UI: Improvements for auto-brightness response in certain lighting conditions
System UI: Fix to improve PiP media playback with certain apps
Wi-Fi: Fix to improve connection stability in certain conditions

To check for the update, head into Settings>System update>Check for updates. NOTE: For Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners, this is the update that Google told us to expect on day 1. It’s clearly rolling out quite slowly. // Google

November 2021 Android Security Update Now Available for Google Pixel Phones

Kellen — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 10:20:56 +0000

Spooky days are behind us and that means the first Monday has arrived as a reward for those who own a Google Pixel phone. The November Android/Pixel update is here and it brings the first monthly patch to not only the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, but we're getting Android 12's first update as well. Oh, it also means we say "goodbye" to the Pixel 3, as its software support will now come to an end. Currently, we are seeing new 12.0.0 files for Pixel 6 (SD1A.210817.036, SD1A.210817.036.A8), Pixel 6 Pro (SD1A.210817.036, SD1A.210817.036.A8), Pixel 5a (SP1A.211105.002.A1, SP1A.211105.003), Pixel 5 (SP1A.211105.002.A1, SP1A.211105.003, SP1A.211105.004), Pixel 4a 5G (SP1A.211105.002.A1, SP1A.211105.003, SP1A.211105.004), Pixel 4a (SP1A.211105.002, SP1A.211105.002.A1, SP1A.211105.004), Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL (SP1A.211105.002, SP1A.211105.002.A1, SP1A.211105.004), and Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL (SP1A.211105.002, SP1A.211105.002.A1). NOTE: For Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners, this is the update that Google told us to expect on day 1. It's clearly rolling out quite slowly. Here's the carrier breakdown for all those builds and:

- Global:
  - Pixel 3a (XL): SP1A.211105.002
  - Pixel 4 (XL): SP1A.211105.002
  - Pixel 4a: SP1A.211105.002
  - Pixel 4a (5G): SP1A.211105.003
  - Pixel 5: SP1A.211105.003
  - Pixel 5a (5G): SP1A.211105.003
  - Pixel 6: SD1A.210817.036
  - Pixel 6 Pro: SD1A.210817.036
- Verizon & Verizon MVNOs
  - Pixel 3a (XL): SP1A.211105.002.A1
  - Pixel 4 (XL): SP1A.211105.002.A1
  - Pixel 4a: SP1A.211105.002.A1
  - Pixel 4a (5G): SP1A.211105.002.A1
  - Pixel 5: SP1A.211105.002.A1
  - Pixel 5a (5G): SP1A.211105.002.A1
  - Pixel 6: SD1A.210817.036.A8
  - Pixel 6 Pro: SD1A.210817.036.A8
- Telstra, Optus, Vodafone AU
  - Pixel 4 (XL): SP1A.211105.004
  - Pixel 4a: SP1A.211105.004
  - Pixel 4a (5G): SP1A.211105.004

If we get an official changelog, we'll be sure to add it to this post. We also aren't expecting a ton of new features or anything at this time. In all likelihood, this should be a decent bug fixer for Android 12, now that it has gone stable. Here are all of the bug fixes!

It's 'RIP' for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL

Tim — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 10:17:45 +0000

Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL have reached the end of Google's guaranteed software support cycle. While sad, they have had a good ride, with Google providing monthly security patches to the devices since their launch in 2018.

UPDATE: Google has told us that there will be one final update in Q1 of 2022.

If you'd like to relive the past, you can read our reviews of the devices. Looking back, the Pixel 3 was a fine phone, though, not too flashy or exciting to use. It had a good camera and the Pixel Experience was excellent. As for the Pixel 3 XL, it had the bathtub notch, which seemed to split people quite a bit. For me, it was a great phone, but I never really enjoyed looking at it. Sorry, notch lovers. Still, they're Pixel devices and will go down in history as phones with good cameras and clean software. That's not a bad legacy. If you own a Pixel 3 or 3 XL, it's time to upgrade. Is the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro the upgrade play? We think so -- Pixel 6 review, Pixel 6 Pro review. Both are fantastic devices, so if you're on the fence, go for it. We've reached out to Google to see if it plans on doing one last update, similar to what we've seen in the past. We'll update when we hear back. RIP, Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL.

Google Addresses Pixel 6 Pro's Weird Power Button Light Flickering, Will Fix Soon

Kellen — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 09:38:08 +0000

When Pixel 6 launch day arrived last week, I joked that it was also the official launch party for those who receive their devices and take to reddit to pick apart Google's newest phones, pointing out any tiny, little obscure issue that others can then spend a day reproducing on their own before preparing lawsuit paperwork for. The first of such was the oddest of issues that involved the display and power button when a Pixel 6 Pro was powered off. Users noticed that if you fully powered down a Pixel 6 Pro and then briefly pressed the power button (without turning the phone back on), that a shooting light or flickering would happen. This alarmed folks, who assumed there was a hardware defect and that this was the beginning of the end for Google's new phones. Drama aside, Google has now acknowledged the issue and claims it is no big deal. In a community forum post, Google explains that this is a "residual light" bug. To avoid seeing it, they simply ask that you stop weirdly powering your phone off and briefly tapping the f*cking power button. If you want to actually use your phone, just long press power to turn it on like a normal person. They suggest "this does not represent an issue with the phone hardware" and that a December software update will fix it.

READ: Google Pixel 6 Pro review

Cricket Wireless Removes 8Mbps Speed Cap on Select Plans, Adds 5G Access to All Plans

Tim — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 09:00:37 +0000

While we were busy writing our Google Pixel reviews last week, Cricket Wireless dropped some big news. As detailed, Cricket is now including 5G access on all of its plans, meaning new and current customers will be able to access 5G benefits in available areas with a supported 5G smartphone. That should be most new phones these days. Additionally, Cricket also announced that it has removed the 8Mbps speed cap on its $30, $40, and $55/month plans. This is news is perfect when paired with the aforementioned 5G access news, obviously. These changes are live right now, so if you're now seeing 5G on your Cricket device, awesome. If it's time to upgrade because of this change, you can shop Cricket supported phones right here. If you'd like to shop Cricket plans, look here. Unlimited data plans start at $55/month for a single line, while an unlimited plan coupled with HBO Max (w/ ads) starts at $60/month. If you need barebones 5G access with a 2GB high-speed cap, it's $30/month. // Cricket Wireless

Google Pixel 6 Pro Review: A Great Flagship

Kellen — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 08:01:24 +0000

You've probably read this several times now, but the Pixel 6 Pro sure looks like a phone that Google would make if they were truly going for it. I think they even told us that that's what this phone is all about, it's just that in this world of tech, we hear that phrasing or line far too often only to be let down. This time, though, I think Google actually did go for it and what they came up with is a phone that will be impossible to ignore for a number of reasons. It may end up being the phone that tops your list as you look to upgrade over the coming months. I've had the pleasure of using the Google Pixel 6 Pro for about two weeks now and certainly have some thoughts to share on that idea above, and also much more. We need to talk about things like this striking design, those new cameras, Android 12, the size, and of course, price. For the first time in a long time, there is an abundance of excitement surrounding a Google phone launch, so let's not waste anymore time. This is our Pixel 6 Pro review.

What do I like about the Pixel 6 Pro?

Android 12 and software. In most reviews, we start with hardware and specs and batteries and cameras, but the Pixel 6 Pro is a showcase for Android like Google has never had before and so that's where we need to start. Android 12, for those who haven't used it, is so freakin' good. This is the most polished, personal, and complete Android has felt. Obviously, the new look for Android 12 ("Material You") is front and center, with wallpaper theming that gives you a unique look at any moment as well as bubbly buttons and fat sliders that are playful, if not a bit cartoonish at times. Even the animations from the notification shade to icon exiting to unlocking your phone or plugging it in, are wonderful to watch and toy with. The Android 12 on Pixel phones is without a doubt its own unique skin and I happen to love it. But this isn't just about the look of the system theme. Google has already updated the majority of its apps to feature new Material You design details, there are new widgets with each app update that finally give Android the widgets it deserves, and Google is really trying to add-on "advanced" type features to make their Android experience as robust as Samsung's. While Google has a long way to go to match Galaxy phones, I'm talking about all the gestures (Quick Tap, One-handed mode, and a customizable power button), universal search throughout the phone's contacts and apps and settings, scrolling screenshots, and icon theming. But Google also has a few of its own tricks, like Extra Dim, copy and paste and sharing and Google Lens from the app switcher, its At A Glance widget that helps you manage your day, and a clean and clear Security dashboard, as well as a Privacy page. For so long, Google's Pixel phones felt bare bones at times and with the Pixel 6 and Android 12, I'm having the level of fun browsing through settings that I typically only do with Samsung's latest. Google is putting a huge emphasis on the smarts and on-board computing of the Pixel 6 Pro too, all of which help round out this Android 12 experience. Google Assistant can be triggered from new places, the Assistant is better than ever in Gboard at taking your speech and turning it into text (it's seriously magical), and Live Translate and Live Caption will forever blow my mind with the speed at which they work in real-time. I haven't even mentioned software support, which Google has now expanded for these Pixel 6 phones. Not only will you get 3 years of OS updates (that should mean Android 15), you also get a full 5 years of monthly security updates. On top of that, Google issues Pixel Feature Drops several times throughout each year that include new features that are typically exclusive to Pixel phones, at least for a while. Yes, we would have loved to get 4 or 5 years of OS updates since Google is using its own Tensor chip, but there still should be improvements beyond those 3 years, assuming the Feature Drops continue. I've spent way too much time talking about Android 12 and the software of the Pixel 6 Pro, but I really think it is the star of the show. When someone is switching from another Android phone or an iPhone, I think most will find the experience so satisfying, from the smoothness to the touch experience to the feature set to the interface. This is not only the best Android experience, it's the best smartphone experience. And yes, I'm well versed on iOS - I've been using an iPhone 12 and now iPhone 13 Pro for months out of the past year. Android 12 on the Pixel 6 Pro is easier to use than iOS, it looks better, and I'd argue that it's smoother and more pleasant to the touch.

The camera. For the first time since the Pixel 3, Google gave us a new 50MP main camera sensor in the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, tossed in a secondary 12MP ultra-wide, and then rounded things out with a 48MP (4x) telephoto lens. This is a complete revamp of the Pixel camera system and it is a winner. Google has once again given us their excellent Night Sight mode for dark shots and shooting the stars, there are quick buttons for jumping between focal lengths, a best-in-class portrait mode is here, and we even have really fun new Action Pan and Long Exposure modes. Google's camera app still lacks a manual mode, but there are enough modes to get you impressive shots without doing any work while also having some room to tweak things like exposure and white balance. These cameras can snap quickly with the best of 'em and process those tough night shots with a decent pace, the live HDR will forever be impressive, giving you a view of what the camera is about to do to a shot before you snap it, and the main sensor is large enough that you get a natural, soft bokeh without that extra processed or fake look. Since this camera shoots at f/1.85, you can almost shoot realistic portrait shots without using Google's Portrait mode. I know that other phones have done the telephoto thing (including Google on the Pixel 4), but the 48MP lens on the 6 Pro is one I've really come to enjoy. The amount of detail that Google is preserving at not only 4x, but also with the 20x digital zoom is so impressive. This lens will be fun to use for previously out-of-reach objects and portrait shots going forward, as well as macro situations. I know this camera doesn't have an official macro mode, but look at a couple of our sample shots to see that it is quite capable. Overall, this camera excels in the day and then continues to impress when it gets dark. I wish the camera would open a bit quicker, but once you have it open, Google has given you a camera experience that has handy modes, flexibility depending on your situation, and snaps as fast as your finger can tap. Below, I have example shots taken from the Pixel 6 Pro that have been resized to better fit the site. If you want to see the full-size shots, as well as many more that I didn't include, here is a Google Photos album to look through. We've also done comparisons of the Pixel 6 Pro to the iPhone 13 Pro and the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 5 that you'll really want to checkout. These will show you exactly how Google's new cameras stack up to some of the best options out there.

The specs. Google went for it with the Pixel 6 Pro and specs, giving us an on-paper list of items that doesn't cut any corners. You have their first processor in Google Tensor, a massive 6.7" QHD AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, 12GB LPDDR5 RAM, up to 512GB of UFS3.1 storage, 5000mAh battery with 30W wired and 23W wireless charging, IP68 water and dust resistance, stereo speakers, WiFi 6E, UWB, 5G, and a brand new camera setup with wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses. What's missing? I can't think of a thing. We've moved on from headphone jacks, SD card slots, and removable batteries, so that leaves nothing. Google did what we've all wanted with their Pixel 6 Pro. This design. The Pixel 6 Pro has its own unique look, like many of the Pixel phones did in years before the Pixel 5. With that said, it's hard for me to tell you that this is a beautiful phone or an ugly one, because I'm not really sure how I ultimately feel about its looks. I love the changing of shades between panels and that Google didn't cram a rectangular shaped camera housing in the top left corner of the backside like every other smartphone maker has done for the past two years. I love that they attempted to make these phones different. The weight balance for such a large phone is spot on, even with that large camera setup. The curves all around make it easy to hold and grip, and the power button and volume are in familiar places that are easy to reach. However, it's going to take more than a couple of weeks to figure out what in the hell Google was doing here or if I truly like it. There's that massive camera bar at the top, which at least stretches the width of the phone, so you can set it down without wobbles. But that camera housing also makes the phone awkward to pull in and out of a pocket. These phones are glossy as hell too, so there is no hiding of your greasy fingerprints (at least on the black model). Google also put a non-matching matte plastic patch on the top of the phone to give it full 5G support. The design is going to help Google's Pixel 6 line standout and create a conversation. Whether that's good or bad is going to be up to each person's eye. All I can say is that I appreciate the effort to be different and I may be starting to come around to this vibe.

Display. It's a big one! The large 6.7" QHD AMOLED display and its curved edges are the star of this show as you scroll about, take in Android 12, watch videos, view all of the fabulous photos you took, and play Pokemon Go. The 120Hz refresh rate makes everything ridiculously smooth in almost all situations, even if it is variable and can drop to 10Hz. For the most part, I only notice it being buttery smooth. Google is also still giving you dark mode controls, night light filters, and three color profiles. Those three color profiles are hardly different, though, and they don't actually show a difference if you switch between Natural and Boosted, which is pretty funny. Google also isn't giving you any true controls over display calibration, so Adaptive is about your best bet and you basically have to trust that Google has tuned this display properly. Speaking of adaptive, it has Adaptive Brightness as well, that will hopefully learn from your usage patterns to automatically adjust the screen at the right time without your manual input. Thankfully, the display looks pretty good. The colors I've seen are exactly as I expected them to look. The display has a good balance between warm and cool tones and touch responsiveness is about as good as it gets in a smartphone. I think this phone is as fast to the touch as any I've used. The display isn't perfect by any means. I'm worried that brightness won't be adequate in sunnier climates. Portland has been mostly rainy and dark lately, but I can tell you that I've been running the brightness slider in the top third for most of my testing to get it at a comfortable level. I believe it has an outdoor super brightness mode that can automatically kick in, I just haven't been able to witness it. But like in previous Pixel phones, Google may not have given us brightness that can match Samsung's phones. Oh, you want thoughts on the side curves? I was one of the first humans on the planet to be anti-curved display, so I'm not a fan of these either. They aren't the most dramatic of curves and I haven't found them as annoying as some older curved phones, but we really could have done without them. Sure, they look cool in photographs and feel smooth to the touch, but they add unfortunate glares at times and can make for a finicky experience if you need to swipe any OS elements that are close to the sides. The display on the Pixel 6 Pro is certainly an above average display that is propped up by that 120Hz refresh rate and its responsiveness. Its colors are tuned properly, viewing angles are solid, and it gets plenty dim. I do think Samsung still and probably always will have Google beat, though. Performance. There is a lot riding on the performance of the Pixel 6 Pro because Google tossed in its first smartphone chip, Tensor. Google is claiming this as a "custom-made processor" and that makes the 6 Pro its "most powerful yet." It should be 80% faster than the Pixel 5, which isn't saying much knowing the mid-tier processor used in that phone, but Google is trying to deliver improved performance in things like on-device AI and computational photography, as well as efficiency. Since we aren't a site that cares much about benchmarks, my thoughts in this area with any phone almost always fall back to how the phone works in daily usage. What I can tell you with the Pixel 6 Pro, through Tensor and its 12GB RAM, UFS3.1 storage, and 120Hz display, is that it's a speedy, smooth device no matter the task. There aren't stutters. Frame drops are rare. Apps open at blazing speeds. The camera snaps as fast as your finger can touch the shutter button. Google Assistant is as quick as can be. Nothing I've thrown at this phone has slowed it down. I hammer on the phone with Chrome and Twitter and Instagram and YouTube and Telegram and Duo and Google News and the WHOOP app and security camera apps and weather apps and Spotify and so on. I feel like I'm a typical, if not slightly-heavy smartphone user, and again, this phone hasn't had an issue with anything I've tried to do. Now, I'm aware of some users complaining about the Pixel 6 Pro heating up, but I've only noticed rare instances. Mostly, I notice heat when using Duo and on a long call. Otherwise, the 6 Pro has run pretty normal. For now, Google Tensor seems like a solid chip that hasn't offered a bunch of trade-offs from Qualcomm's chips and has at least given Google an extra 2 years of comfort with security updates. Hopefully, we see future uses and improvements out of this chip as Google continues development. Price. The price of the Pixel 6 Pro is kind of insane. A starting point of $899, for all that you are getting, doesn't really make any sense (in a good way) in 2021. The two phones the 6 Pro compares to are the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and iPhone 13 Pro Max, which cost $1,199 and $1,099 to start, respectively. And when you compare Google's new flagship to those in specs and features and support, it's not like it comes up short in a major way. If you are an Android user, I'm not sure why you wouldn't save the $400 and ignore the S21 Ultra. If you are looking at an iPhone or Android device, the $300 savings over Apple's best has also got to be incredibly tempting. The Pixel 6 Pro is without a doubt the best value in smartphones.

What don't I love about it?

Size. For the most part, I enjoy everything about the Pixel 6 Pro, if that wasn't obvious. There is one area of concern, though, and I know I'm likely in the minority, but this phone is too f*cking big. In years past, Google gave us regular and XL versions of its Pixel phones, where they mostly matched up specs to give you a very similar experience no matter the size. It was wonderful for those of us who aren't fans of carrying around whales or tablets when on the go. For the Pixel 6 Pro, there is only one "pro" model and it is supersized. Again, I know I'm probably a small portion of the world who hates massive phones. Google and other manufacturers haven't spent the past several years making these large devices because they felt like it. No, they did it because that's what consumers buy. I get that. Still, as a person who tries to lead a somewhat active life, a phone this large is almost out of the question. I can't take this on runs. I would hesitate to take it on a hike. Going out to grab a beer or to play soccer with my kid or to workout in a non-padded room or to leave the house in workout shorts or without a case would all put me in a position to wonder what I'd do with my phone during that time. That feeling sucks! I like this phone a lot and would love to continue using a Pixel 6 Pro going forward, but man, why couldn't we get a smaller version too, Google? Battery life. Before you get super concerned at seeing battery life down here in this section, chill for a second. Battery life on the Pixel 6 Pro is probably going to be fine for most people. At 5000mAh and with 30W wired or 23W wireless charging options, you should make it through most days without needing a charger, but could always top off pretty quickly if needed. In my first week of testing (with 120Hz on, because yes), battery life was all over the place for me. I had days where I'd go to bed with 15% and then another day where I would have 15% at 7PM. I ran a factory reset a few days ago, removed a couple of apps I was worried about (Eufy!), and I've seen much better battery life since. We're talking 30%-40% battery at bed time with around 4 hours of screen on time. That's solid! If you are a monster user, with 6 or 7 or 8 hours of screen on time, I'm not sure this phone is going to get you through a day. I have had readers already suggest they are pushing those limits and seeing good numbers, I just haven't from my usage patterns. ~~Thankfully, again, Google has upped the charging speeds to 30W with a compatible charger that you would have to buy separately, so as long as you are within reach of an outlet, you should be OK~~. NOTE: Charging tests have now confirmed that the Pixel 6 Pro doesn't actually charge at 30W and instead tops out at about 22W for the first 50% of a charge. After that, it severely tapers charging speeds, causing full charges to take upwards of 2 hours. That's not good. The Pixel 6 Pro is not a king in battery, but it's also not a major area of concern. Fingerprint reader. For the first time in one of its own phones, Google used an in-display fingerprint reader. This is of the optical kind, where the sensor lights up to blast your finger in order to read and scan it. OnePlus has used these forever, but companies like Samsung have moved onto ultrasonic, which typically present more consistent results and without the beaming light. The fingerprint reader on the Pixel 6 Pro is...yeah, it's pretty bad. We called this out on day 1 and there hasn't been an improvement since. I've used it before and after a factory reset, as well as the same reader on a Pixel 6, and the experience is always the same. The reader is slow to read, sometimes forgets that it's supposed to read your finger mid-read, and successfully scans at a percentage far below 100%. If you press firmly onto your display, you can sometimes get better results, but that's not a fun experience either. You shouldn't have to work this hard to get into your phone with a feature that at one point was a major security convenience and has now turned into a nuisance. Look, I don't like in-display fingerprint readers of any type. I think they are all slow and bad and no fun and I wish companies would just keep putting them on the backs of phones (or in side power buttons), like Google did with the excellent Pixel 5 fingerprint reader. They don't want to for design purposes, and I get that, but Google should have done better. You hope that maybe a software update can tweak an algorithm or the light needed to better scan a finger, there's just no word on if that's possible. If anything, Google just needs to give us face unlock, so that we can ignore this fingerprint reader whenever we aren't on the streets with a mask on.

Other notes:

No charger!: The Pixel 6 Pro is capable of 30W wired charging speeds, and that's super cool, but there isn't a charger in the box. I know a lot of people are mad about this and I'm starting to come around to being with you. As I've tested this phone, I kind of wanted to get in some 30W charging action, yet can't because I don't have a 30W charger handy. Boo, Google.
Cases: There are a number of case options for this phone, with Google, Bellroy, Spigen, and many others all making theirs available at launch. While I can't imagine using a case on this phone knowing that it would go from whale to mega-whale, it's also a necessary item on a $900 phone made of glass. Just know that if you do use a case, most are adding substantial thickness, as they try and make up the difference on the back and its camera hump. That leaves you with protection and no hump, but an even thicker, larger feeling phone.

Videos

Unboxing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h78Q6lQ_gec&t=446s First 10 Things To Do https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwzkxbF9FAs

Should you buy a Pixel 6 Pro?

The Google Pixel 6 Pro should be topping your Android smartphone list today if you are in the flagship market. And even if you aren't, because most flagship phones require a budget of $1,000 or more, this phone can still be in consideration as it starts at just $899. For years and years the smartphone flagship-level world has trended upwards in price as component costs have gone up and more advanced features are included. To see Google undercut everyone by this margin and not follow that trend is some crazy sh*t. I don't know if they are taking a hit on the 6 Pro or not, but what I do know is that this is such an incredible value for a phone today. The display is excellent. Performance is too. The camera matches up with the best in the business. Android 12 with Google's Pixel skin on top makes for such an enjoyable experience. Performance is great. Battery life is fine. And you get it all without any weird corners cut, outside of maybe the bad fingerprint reader. If you are fine with a phone this large, buy it. Here, buy it from: Amazon | Best Buy | Google

Google Pixel 6 Review: A Clear Winner

Tim — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:20:21 +0000

To say that this year's Pixel devices have been two of the most highly anticipated Google phones to ever release almost feels like an understatement. After the good, yet somehow mediocre device that was the Pixel 5 last year, we needed a big breath of fresh air for the Pixel lineup. Thanks to a great hype campaign by Google and steady stream of leaks from insiders, we have many people waiting for their new Pixel 6 phones to show up after an easily predictable pre-order disaster. We're here to talk about the Pixel 6, though, not Google's inability to take our money quickly enough. After a week of heavy usage, is the Pixel 6 worth all of the hype? Is it the best $599 you can spend on an Android phone? Should you get the smaller Pixel 6 over the somewhat mightier Pixel 6 Pro? I hope to answer these questions for you below. This is our Google Pixel 6 review!

What I Like

Hardware and Design Google has had a great tendency to release phones that have a certain level of Googliness to them. It's somewhat intangible when trying to explain what that means, but it stares you right in the face. The Pixel 4 lineup was Googley. Same with the Pixel 2 XL. And beautifully, the same goes for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. They look like Google phones, which makes me as a fan of unique hardware happy. When thinking about Googliness in design, I believe it's the combination of unique colors with a pop of black. My favorite designs from Google have all featured that shot of black, such as the 2 XL and 4 XL. These phones have that with the camera bar/hump. At first, I was unsure about the rear hump for the camera system, but it's been fine and hasn't caused me any grief. Plus, if you're using a case, it's even less of an issue when placing it down on a flat surface. As for the Pixel 6's size, while it feels so much larger than my Pixel 5, it's been growing on me. However, I'm a bit worried for Pixel 6 Pro buyers. I know they, too, will likely get used to it, but it's such a big phone. If Google could have given me this Pixel 6 body with the Pixel 6 Pro's specs, specifically the telephoto lens and 120Hz display, it would pretty much be perfect in my eyes. I prefer this flat display, this weight, and these color options versus the Pixel 6 Pro. I ordered a Pixel 6 Pro for myself and it'll have to be my daily driver after I return this Pixel 6 to Google, and if I'm being honest, I'm not looking forward to an even bigger phone. I really like this Pixel 6 and don't want to give it up anytime soon. Google, can I keep this unit? Pretty please? Specs While it may not have the Pixel 6 Pro's exact spec list, the Pixel 6 offers more than what I would expect from a phone that starts at $599. I have to keep reminding myself of that. This is a $599 phone. I discussed the importance of this previously. The Pixel 6 features a 6.4" Full HD OLED display with a refresh rate of up to 90Hz, Google's new in-house Tensor processor, 8GB RAM, 128GB storage (also comes in 256GB option), 4614mAh battery with support for 30W wired charging and fast wireless charging (Battery Share also present), dual rear camera system consisting of a 50-megapixel wide angle shooter and a 12-megapixel ultra wide, optical in-display fingerprint reader, IP68 rating, 5G connectivity, stereo speakers, and Android 12. For a $599 phone, that seems pretty great to me. As I mentioned, the only two things I'd bring over from the Pro are the 120Hz display and telephoto lens for added flexibility when out shooting photos. I see this device easily meeting the needs of most anyone who purchases it, so if you were concerned the Pixel 6 is underpowered in some way, you can forget that right now. Camera There are a few things that made the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro "highly anticipated," with one of the main reasons being that we expected Google to include an updated camera sensor. Finally, something other than the same IMX363 sensor that's been employed since the Pixel 3. If it's not broke, don't fix it, but geez. Inside the Pixel 6, we have an upgraded main 50-megapixel camera sensor, which gets binned to 12.5MP when snapping shots. While not 50MP large, the results are pretty damn good and full of detail. There's an ultra wide sensor at 12-megapixel, too. Both Kellen and I have been snapping photos like crazy, comparing the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 5, as well as the Pixel 6 Pro to the iPhone 13 Pro. We recommend you check those samples out. To sum it up nicely, the Pixel 6 has an amazing camera, exactly what you would expect from Google. The camera delivers exceptional amounts of contrast and true-to-life colors, without much need for added saturation levels. In addition, the camera delivers an amazing natural bokeh effect on close-up subjects, allowing me to skip using the built-in Portrait mode on the device. And of course, Night Sight and Astrophotography are included, so this phone can handle daytime and nighttime shots like an absolute champ. Google has a new mode to play with on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro called Motion. It's quite intriguing, designed to capture things that are in movement. Inside Motion are two presets, one called Action Pan and another called Long Exposure. Long Exposure is great for capturing tail lights on vehicles, while Action Pan focuses on a moving subject and blurs the background. Both are pretty sweet, though, the ability to adjust the exposure of a shot should have been added years ago by Google. Oh well, at least it's here now. I did a few 4K video recordings, and in typical Pixel fashion, they didn't come out too special. Watching back, colors look too muted and there's more grey when there should be black, but the saving grace is Google's stabilization effect. When holding the phone in your hands, you'd think the device is attached to a gimbal with how smooth panning can appear. Google has taken its camera software to heights we didn't think were possible a few years ago, and on the Pixel 6, there's finally upgraded hardware to take advantage of all that software mastery. If I'm leaving the house for a hike or going somewhere tropical, so long as I have my Pixel, I know I'll be able to capture virtually any shot I may need to. Below are camera samples, resized for the site but not touched in any other way.

Software and Updates Android 12 is easily one of my favorite entries into the long list of Android updates we've seen over the years. For me, it's right up there with KitKat, which is probably my favorite. Android 12 focuses heavily on user customization, as if past Android builds weren't already. Android 12 takes customization and appearance a step further, with system and app colors constantly changing based on your wallpaper, while UI elements have been enlarged to look more bubbly and inviting. It's a great look, and on the Pixel 6, it runs amazingly with all sorts of fun features. Without diving too deep into "what's new in Android 12," since we've written that every time there was a new Android 12 beta, I'm going to provide a few of my favorite Android 12/Pixel 6 software things. Scrolling screenshots. Face detection for auto rotation. Double tap on back of phone to trigger Google Assistant. Home controls access right from system toggles. The widgets. Material You and the overall theming options in general, obviously. And the Privacy dashboard. While Android 12 is the same Android OS we've been using for years and it essentially does the same stuff, this is really the most polished version we've seen of it. Yes, there are bugs as we're still early in its life, but for the most part, it performs beautifully on this Pixel 6. For the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google announced that it will supply three years of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates. That's a first for Google and the Pixel line, and while some may have hoped for more, it's a step in the right direction. It's not iOS levels of software support, but it's better than 2 years of upgrades and 3 years of security patches. We'll certainly take it. Thanks, Google.

Performance and Tensor One concern with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro was Google's deployment of their very own SoC, that being Tensor. We simply didn't know what to expect, but Google has put our minds at ease, not only with a lot of documentation on Tensor, but with first-hand experience with Tensor in these new devices. Coupled with 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM, the Pixel 6 performs fantastically. It's incredibly noticeable coming from the Pixel 5, which feels like a complete mid-ranger when compared to the Pixel 6. Most notably is when the phone is processing something, such as photos. On the Pixel 5, it was slow and hesitant after a photo was snapped to process and show you the results. On the Pixel 6, you snap the photo and boom, it's ready for viewing. In typical Android fashion, multitasking is also a breeze on this device. You can be in Twitter or Chrome one second, then a simple swipe on the bottom of your display lands you in a different app, with no stutters or hiccups to be seen. It's been a very refreshing experience, after having used the Pixel 5 for a year. And sorry to my fellow Pixel 5 users, I don't mean to be harsh on that phone, but it's a known fact that in the performance department it's not a heavy hitter. It's good to have Google making fast, premium phones again. Battery With its 4614mAh battery, the Pixel 6 has been good for me in the battery department. I've been getting a solid 4+ hours of screen on time each day, with my usual routine being 7AM to 11PM at night. Each night I'm going to bed with around 30% battery charge left, so that is great for me. Also great is Google's improved charging speeds on both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Finally. Google has upgraded the Pixel 6 to support wired charging speeds of up to 30W, which is nearly double what the Pixel 5 was taking in. This is a welcomed change. Wireless charging has also been upgraded, but I'm waiting for the new Pixel Stand to launch to see how that is. I don't typically like to wireless charge my phones, but I know plenty of people swear by it. They'll be happy with the improved charging speeds. One thing to note is Google's new 24-hour overview for battery stats. If you're attempting to determine your screen on time for a day, it may no longer be helpful to check the actual battery stats section. Instead, check the Digital Wellbeing dashboard, which shows you exactly how long you've been looking at your display, along with other helpful insights. I clearly spend too much time on TikTok.

What Could Be Better

Display Having the display in this section shouldn't alarm anybody. All I'm going to say is, I wish it supported 120Hz refresh and I wish it was a tad bit brighter. That's all. I probably said the same thing about the Pixel 5 last year. Beyond those two wishes, it's a gorgeous and flat display, with very nice color saturation and deep blacks. I emphasize how it handles colors, because colors play such a large role in Android 12 and Material You. For a device that costs $599, I don't think you could ask for much more. Unfortunately, Google still doesn't give users much control over what they're looking at all day. In the Display settings menu, you can choose your brightness and if you want Adaptive Brightness, but beyond that, there is only a single "Colors" menu that gives you three options - Natural, Boosted, and Adaptive. I opt for Adaptive, as when looking at Google's example photo, it's the only option that clearly looks different from the other two. Meanwhile, Samsung lets you tweak white balance and everything on individual RGB scales. It's much more user friendly over there, but then again, Samsung doesn't mess around when it comes to display performance. They have the best. And the display's brightness. It's still not as bright as a Samsung display, but it's better than the Pixel 5, which as many of you may know, is very poor and not bright at all. When I look back on this review, it'll maybe look like all I did was crap on the Pixel 5, but hopefully many of the people who read this are on a Pixel 5 and are considering an upgrade to the Pixel 6. If that's the case, I hope all of these comparisons are helping. And to answer your question, yes, you should upgrade to the Pixel 6. Fingerprint Reader Poor Google. It still can't seem to figure out a decent way to unlock a smartphone, even though it had a perfect solution last year with the Pixel 5. Come to think of it, they had a good solution with the Pixel 2 as well. Oh, the original Pixel had a pretty great way to unlock your phone, too. Hear me, Google -- the rear-facing fingerprint scanner just works and that should be good enough for you. These optical sensors are trash. When you're unlocking your phone hundreds of times in a day, constantly having to double tap the scanner because it didn't read properly the first time, we're going to be pissed and complain about it. This experience, after using the true Pixel Imprint on past devices, is unacceptable.

Other Notes

Wife Impressions - "Phone feels pretty heavy, but not too big for one hand use. I'm not crazy about the how the camera sticks out on the back, but I can appreciate that it covers the full width of the phone so it can still lay relatively flat. I dig it and I love the color."
Face Unlock - This ties into the fingerprint screen section, but I wanted to draw direct notice to it. There is no face unlock on either Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, but it's possible Google will include it in a future update. Considering my disdain for the fingerprint scanner, let's hope that is true.

Price and Availability

The Pixel 6 starts at $599, which is a helluva deal for a phone this good. It shouldn't be this cheap, honestly. Google could have gotten away with charging more, but obviously, we're glad they didn't. If you need more internal storage, a 256GB model can be had for $699. Comparing this to other $599 phones, it's a clear winner in our book. You're getting a great list of specs, fantastic software support, and some unique hardware that can turn some heads. What's not to like? As for where you can buy it, when in stock you can find it on the Google Store, Best Buy, Amazon, the major carriers, or pretty much anywhere else popular cellphones are sold. There are no exclusives to be seen here thank goodness, so if you're looking for a Pixel 6, you should be able to get your hands on one.

Buy Pixel 6

Videos

Unboxing https://youtu.be/h78Q6lQ_gec First 10 Things to Do https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwzkxbF9FAs

Gallery

The Verdict

I can keep this short and sweet. If you like Google Pixel phones, buy this phone. Whether you want the Pro model or not is on you, but this smaller Pixel 6 option is really, really good. It's a frontrunner for me to get awarded POTY (Phone of the Year). Besides the lame fingerprint reader, there really isn't anything to dislike here, and at its ridiculous $599 price, I can't think of any other phone that would be in the conversation. Maybe if the Galaxy S21 FE ever gets released, you could consider that if you're more in tune with Samsung hardware and software, but even then it'll be interesting to see if Samsung can keep the price low enough to make it compete against the Pixel 6. Heck, even diehard OnePlus fans have to be thinking to themselves that it might be time to get with a Pixel. This phone's a winner, plain and simple. I foresee it being my daily driver for quite some time.

Google Fi Gets End-to-End Encrypted Calls

Kellen — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 09:19:57 +0000

Need that extra bit of privacy on your calls? Google Fi to the rescue. This week, Google announced that when you place calls on Google Fi to another Android phone, those calls will automatically be end-to-end encrypted. That way, your conversations stay only between you and the person on the other end. Scary to think what could have been happening before this... Anyways, to know that your calls are encrypted, you'll see and hear cues to let you know what's happening. A special ringing tone will go off just before you see a lock symbol on the screen of your call (see above). As you'll notice up top, it says "Encrypted by Google Fi" as well. The person on the other end will apparently be greeted with the same lock symbol. You won't have to do anything to get this action on your Google Fi phone. This is going to be the default setting and it will rollout over the "coming weeks." // Google

Podcast: Pixel 6 Review Time!

Kellen — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 08:44:27 +0000

On this episode of the Droid Life Show, it's time to dive deeper into the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. The review embargos have lifted and we are free to talk about everything these phones can and can't do, what they are good and bad at, and if you should buy them. The front half of the show will be heavily Pixel 6-related, but you are fine with that, right? We also have big Android 12L news, which is a new version of Android built for foldables and tablets. Lots to share there! We’ll be live at 11:00AM Pacific (2:00PM Eastern).

At Least Google is Taking Material You Widgets Seriously, For Now

Kellen — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 14:42:32 +0000

The big reveal of Material You at Google I/O showed us a lot of very pretty UI elements for Android 12, all of which we hope to one day see on a phone. There were wallpaper themes and app redesigns and new buttons and fatter, more colorful sliders and a lot of widgets. It all looked incredible. Of course, there are no guarantees that all of it will be made, and I say that after getting far too excited about some of the fun things Google showed off years ago with Material Design's first launch, and then being forever disappointed that we didn't get it all. You all remember the music player, I'm sure. But so far, Google appears to be trying to give us a lot of the goods. We did indeed get wallpaper theming, new shapes and buttons and sliders, and the app redesigns have already started rolling out. What about the widgets, though? Today, Google confirmed a bunch of new widgets that are in the works for many of their popular apps, in addition to a number of widgets that have already been released.

As you can see in the images throughout this post, there are a lot of widgets in the works. There are several YouTube Music widgets, variations of clocks, a Google Maps widget with tappable shortcuts, a Google Drive widget that can be resized to work how you want it to, lots of Google Photos frames, and even a Google Fi widget. And as a tip, if you add a widget to your home screen, play around with the size of it. For example, the 2x2 or 4x2 weather widget from the Google app can show you more or less information as you resize it. In my testing, it has at least 4 different variations that you wouldn't realize from the widget picker. Also don't forget that as you move widgets around, they'll change colors to match your wallpaper in that location. Android 12 is so freakin' awesome.

Grab the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro's First Factory Images

Kellen — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 14:08:32 +0000

Google took a usual step today by releasing both the factory image and OTA files for its new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones. They tend to do this as phones launch, giving users who like to tinker a way to fix their phones should they tinker too much. The factory image and OTA files are available in several versions, but we aren't yet seeing what will be the out-of-box, day 1 update Google told us to expect. For now, we have four different builds, all of which are very specific to your carrier.

Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro Factory Images

SD1A.210817.015.A4
SD1A.210817.019.B1 (AT&T)
SD1A.210817.019.C2 (T-Mobile, USCC, Google Fi, CA, TW carriers)
SD1A.210817.019.C4 (Verizon)
Downloads: Factory Images | OTA

The new builds that should arrive as an over-the-air update are SD1A.210817.036, the global build for most users, and SD1A.210817.036.A8, the Verizon build. The other bit of news with this release is a confirmation from Google that the Pixel 6's codename was indeed "oriole," and the Pixel 6 Pro's was "raven." These were rumored for a year leading up to their release, but we love seeing the names on these image pages. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go.

GeForce NOW RTX 3080 Memberships Now Up for Pre-Order

Tim — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 08:30:40 +0000

NVIDIA's new GeForce NOW membership tier, RTX 3080, is now available for pre-order. While it may seem weird to pre-order something like this, don't worry, RTX 3080 pre-orders will turn into active memberships starting in November, which is only a few days away. Priced at $99 for six months of access, this membership tier comes with a special cloud-based gaming rig, powered by an RTX 3080 equivalent card. That means you can expect to stream the highest resolution at the best FPS, regardless of what device you're playing on. For example, desktop and laptop players will see up to 1440p at 120FPS. If you want to play on your Android device via the GeForce NOW Android app, you'll have up to 120FPS gameplay, as well as 4K HDR streaming to SHIELD TV. The RTX 3080 tier also comes with an extended session length of 8 hours, though, NVIDIA says its average gamer doesn't play for nearly that long. Gameplay I was fortunate enough to have my GFN account upgraded to an RTX 3080 membership this past week, allowing me to get some early hands-on with the service. Let me tell you, I am not a computer gamer, but I was thoroughly impressed with what I was seeing on my screen. I was streaming Cyberpunk 2077 to my MacBook Pro, hooked up to a 4K LG monitor. Even for how buggy that game still is, it looked and performed phenomenally, with the RTX 3080 membership allowing me to truly max out those graphics settings. It was pretty awesome, and with the weather turning to absolute crap in the PNW, I'll be playing with this much more. Now I just need to bolster my Steam account with some decent titles. Pricing For pricing, the RTX 3080 membership costs $99 for 6 months of access. Compared to the actual 3080 card's price of $699 (lol, if you can find one), it's not a bad option to literally stream a 3080's performance from the cloud should you have the right setup. I'm telling you, I tried it and even I was impressed by the look and feel of it. Space on NVIDIA's servers is limited, so if you're interested, go for it.

Sign Up Here

// NVIDIA

It's Pixel 6 Day! Your First Impressions Are?

Kellen — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 08:11:29 +0000

Ahhh yes, we made it to Pixel 6 Day! If you got in that immediate pre-order, there is a good chance your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro is scheduled for arrival today (or earlier for some lucky ones). We'd love to hear those first impressions of a pair of phones that are without a doubt Google's most important. Unfortunately for those who didn't get in immediate pre-orders, it's looking like there are delays for the next round of shipments. Google either massively underestimated demand or the chip shortage is impacting their new phones, but either way, if you try to buy a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro from today, it might be a while before you get one. Also, we're seeing reports that T-Mobile orders are running into all sorts of delays, with shipping dates slipping from today until weeks out. That's...not good. If you are running into other issues at retailers or carriers, be sure to let us know. I know that I'm watching my Best Buy pre-order closely, as it was supposed to be ready for pickup today and I'm getting the impression that that won't happen. Again, if you received your Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, congrats! Here are the first 10 things you should do with it. What are you liking (or disliking) so far?

Pixel 6 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro Cameras: Pick Your King

Kellen — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 12:29:16 +0000

We are closing in on it being time for our reviews of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, but we have one more camera comparison to share with you. I've been using both the Pixel 6 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro since getting Google's newest phone and was able to take several similar-situation shots to help us figure out who is the current king of smartphone cameras. While not at all scientific in capturing, these shots were almost all taken from the exact spot, flipping between the preset focal lengths on each camera's auto mode. In some situations, I also tried to match focal length to get a more exact side-by-side. If night mode wanted to kick in, well, we let that happen, although I certainly had to force it off more on the Pixel 6 with the iPhone 13 Pro using it far less often. For those not familiar, the iPhone 13 Pro I'm using has a triple camera setup made of three 12MP shooters. For aperture, we're looking at f/2.8 on the telephoto, f/1.5 on the wide, and f/1.8 on the ultra-wide (with 120° field of view). This camera system supports 3x optical zoom in, 2x optical zoom out, and a 6x optical zoom range with digital zoom up to 15x. The Pixel 6 Pro, which you probably know, has a triple rear camera with 50MP wide (f/1.85), 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2, 114° field of view), and 48MP telephoto (f/3.5) lenses. For zooming, we have 4x optical on the telephoto with digital Super Res Zoom up to 20x.

ALSO READ: Pixel 6 vs. Pixel 5 Camera Samples: Is There Any Difference?

Below, you'll find shots that I've resized to help this old website of ours survive all of you browsing it at the same time. What I recommend you do to get the full experience and see the full resolution shots is head over to this Google Photos album. I've set that up so that you flip through it and see Pixel 6 Pro shot followed by an iPhone 13 Pro shot.

Pixel 6 Pro vs. iPhone 13 Pro

(in that order)

What's the takeaway here? Both are (obviously) excellent cameras that offer flexibility in various shooting situations. I think the Pixel 6 Pro has ridiculous zoom capabilities with processing to match. I also think the iPhone 13 Pro stands out with what appears to be a direct copy of Google's old Pixel image processing style. Those slightly punchier colors and added contrast remind me of exactly what we loved about older Pixel phones. Now, the Pixel 6 Pro (at least to my eye) is trying to be the more natural of the two, although it does try and really raise the hell out of shadows in night shots. If you like warmer, more natural looking shots and need the ultimate zoom experience in a smartphone, then I think the Pixel 6 Pro is built for you. If you prefer a cooler, more contrasty and punchy style, then yeah, that's what the iPhone 13 Pro gives you.

What Would You Prefer, Pixel Tablet or Pixel Foldable?

Tim — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:17:19 +0000

With Android 12L getting detailed this morning, designed to take advantage of larger screens found on tablets and foldables, we're left wondering when we can expect new hardware from Google. It's funny, I know, we get the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro this week, but what can I say, we love new-new stuff. Android 12L makes us think, though -- if Google were to focus on releasing new tablet or foldable hardware, which would you prefer? We are of the belief, thanks to past leaks, that Google is for sure going to release a foldable device at some point. Will it be any good? That's tough to say. Samsung put outs its best foldable devices on its third attempt in the Z Fold 3 and Flip 3, and I'm not sure Google has the patience to go three rounds trying to make a decent foldable device. In my eyes, the first one needs to be killer or they could abandon the project. As for a Pixel tablet, it's hard to justify that Google should make one, considering Android tablets in general have never been all that desirable. And it goes beyond the OS and hardware. There just doesn't seem to be a ton of app developer support for Android tablets, likely because developers see most of the money over on iOS and iPads. That's not to say Google shouldn't give it a shot, but it would be an uphill battle. What do you think? Have any thoughts on the Pixel tablet vs. Pixel foldable debate?

Google Announces Android 12L for Tablets and Foldables

Kellen — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:00:04 +0000

The Android Dev Summit kicked off today, bringing with it a big announcement from Google and the future of Android on large screened devices. Please, my friends, welcome in Android 12L, the version of Android for tablets and foldables with some specific features and design guidelines. What's new in Android 12L that makes it specific to tablets and foldables, you ask? Google explains it as a "special feature drop that makes Android 12 even better on large screens." That means they've made some changes (hopefully improvements) to the UI, multitasking, and support for apps. Google isn't showing much yet, but the screenshot below should give you a bit of an idea of at least one example. Here you can see the notification shade is using a two-column setup, with controls on one side and notifications on the other. This will work on the lock screen and other system surfaces as well, likely in the settings area.

Additionally, Android 12L adds a taskbar at the bottom of the screen where you'll find favorite app shortcuts that let you easily jump between apps or open them in a split screen setup. You will be able to drag and drop apps from the taskbar onto the screen to open split screen mode as well. Google is also forcing apps to be able to work in this scenario, even if they aren't currently set to be resizable. Finally, Android 12L offers "a better letterboxing experience for users and help apps look better by default." This is big for big screens on Android, because the inconsistency of apps working or not working depending on screen size and orientation can be frustrating. Yep, looking at you, Galaxy Tab S7+.

When and what is Android 12L launching on? Ahh yes, you are wondering how you can get Android 12L and which devices will run it. That's important for sure. Android 12L is actually launching as a developer preview today, which you can use in the Android Emulator. That will give you a sense for it and let you mess around with features, if you are that curious. Developers should most definitely do that. If you want it on a device, the Lenovo P12 Pro should see a preview very "soon." For the rest of us non-developers, Android 12L is launching "early next year, in time for the next wave of Android 12 tablets and foldables." I don't know about you, but that sure sounds like Google is expecting big things early next year from device makers. You also have to wonder if they are referring to their own rumored Pixel foldables. Maybe they'll finally give us a Pixel tablet too? Wishful thinking. What about Android 12L for phones? Google did announce today that Android 12L "is for phones" too, but most of the features won't be visible on smaller screens. However, they are going to open up a preview of Android 12L to Pixel devices through the Android Beta program "later." Is this the rumored Android 12.1? Yes, this is the rumored "Android 12.1" point update that we've talked about a couple of times. All of these features discussed here today were previously shown off, thanks to a leaked build of it. To find out more about Android 12L, here are the links you need:

Android 12L portal: developer.android.com/12L
Download the 12L Emulator
Android 12L feature preview

T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile Now Available Inside Walmart and Best Buy Locations

Tim — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 09:23:05 +0000

Back in mid-September, T-Mobile announced that it would arrive at Walmart locations across the nation, bringing with it Metro by T-Mobile as well. On top of that, it was announced today that you can find them inside of Best Buy locations, too. With these moves now live, it makes the amount of places you can get a T-Mobile line in the US skyrocket. For T-Mobile, that's a great thing. For the competition, it's probably not so cool. Getting your cell service from Best Buy should be similar to how it's done at a regular T-Mobile shop. At Best Buy, you can shop all of T-Mobile's postpaid plans, such as Magenta, Magenta MAX, and even Magenta Military. Shopping for Metro by T-Mobile at Walmart looks like more of a self service experience. According to the press release, T-Mobile says you'll choose a phone and plan that's right for you, then help yourself via the Self-Service Center. For T-Mobile plans, "Customers can chat in-store with experts to decide what Un-carrier plan is best for them and walk out the same day with a new 5G device and unlimited 5G access." Now, go forth and get your T-Mobile needs taken care of at Best Buy and Walmart. // T-Mobile [2]

Samsung Takes Us on a Tour of One UI 4 and Android 12

Kellen — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 16:28:54 +0000

Samsung has been testing One UI 4 and Android 12 in beta on the Galaxy S21 for several weeks now and through a couple of early updates, has already introduced new features not found in the original beta. Today, Samsung posted a two part video series to show all that's new, in case you haven't been following their progress. The highlights for One UI 4 and Android 12 include Color Palette, which is Samsung utilizing one of our favorite features from Google, where the wallpaper you set influences the colors throughout the UI. Samsung is rounding out all the corners throughout the UI as well, including on several widgets, some of which aren't even theirs. They tossed in Extra Dim, from Android 12, to take your brightness down that extra notch at night, put a dim or dark theme on icons, added mixed emotion emoji pairs, greatly improved the photo editor (and added a photo de-blur tool), and brought pinch-to-zoom to picture-in-picture, to name a few things. The list is pretty extensive from that first beta build, so if you are interested in how Samsung's take on Android 12 will look and work, these two videos give good overviews. Samsung Galaxy S21 owners in the beta, thoughts so far? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTW7ec7UNJA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQQcdcCqI_E

Google Wants You to Update Your Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Right Away

Kellen — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 13:59:34 +0000

As your Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro orders arrive over the coming days, Google has a big recommendation after you complete setup - check for an update to "get all the features." In a help forum post today, Google has posted a notice that all new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones have an update available out of the box that users will want to grab right away. Again, once setup is complete, users should be able to pull an update that will give them all of the expected features for each phone. The updated builds will be SD1A.210817.036 for most users and SD1A.210817.036.A8 for Verizon customers. If you head into Settings>About phone>Android version and don't see either of those build numbers, be sure to then check for the update. To try and pull an update from Google, back up one screen, go into System>System update and then tap the "check for updates" button. Google says that the update is staged and "may not be available until 10/28," but if you get your phone early, you should go ahead and try to update. Oh, and if you do get your phone, don't forget that we have the First 10 Things you should do with it.

Get Your Samsung Device Repaired at Best Buy, Including Galaxy Z Foldables

Tim — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 12:45:18 +0000

This week, Samsung announced that it is expanding "authorized care" to over 100 Best Buy locations across the US. That means, should you run into issues with your Galaxy S or even Galaxy Z device, you'll be able to get it taken care of by an authorized party using genuine Samsung parts. No more shoddy mall kiosk repairs for me apparently. Samsung specifies that many repairs can be completed by the Geek Squad folks the same day as you take the device in, though, it doesn't look like foldables, like the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Flip 3, are eligible for same-day repairs.

The Samsung Authorized Care service at Best Buy locations will provide front and back screen replacements, battery replacements, port and camera repairs, and other in- and out-of-warranty support services for Galaxy S series and Galaxy Notes series devices starting October 26. Support for Galaxy Z foldable phones will begin in early November.

Pretty sweet, yeah? You can check to see which Best Buy location near you has the repair services you need right here. // Samsung

Pixel 6 vs. Pixel 5 Camera Samples: Is There Any Difference?

Tim — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 09:26:38 +0000

After using the same Sony-made IMX363 main sensor for years, dating back to the Pixel 3, Google has upgraded the camera system on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. What a time it is to be alive, as it's well known across the industry that Pixel phones have some of the best camera experiences you can get on a smartphone. The question is, did Google continue the tradition on its latest?

Related: A Week With the Pixel 6 Pro

To see how the new Pixel 6 stacks up against the existing Pixel 5, I took both phones out this past weekend and snapped up as many comparison shots as I could. For an in-depth breakdown of the Pixel 6 camera, you'll need to wait for my full review coming up soon, but in TL;DR form: Oh yeah, baby, the Pixel 6 fits in nicely. The biggest difference is processing times for photos. On the Pixel 5, there's a solid wait time for processing certain shots, such as Night Sight captures, but that process time is cut down to next to nothing on the Pixel 6, assumingly thanks to Google's Tensor chip and other improved internals. Additionally, the ability to capture photos with slightly larger resolution is equally welcomed, with the Pixel 6's 50-megapixel sensor (automatically binned to 12.5-megapixel) also featuring a gorgeous natural bokeh affect on subjects that are closer to you. It's a bit disappointing that Google doesn't allow to capture photos at 50MP, but maybe we can advocate for a change in a future update. Another detail I notice is the Pixel 6's field of view is a bit wider. You'll notice that in a few of the shots. The Pixel 6 is able to get just a bit more of its surroundings versus the Pixel 5, but it's not very noticeable unless you're doing side-by-side comparisons such as this. My wish is that the PNW's weather would have cooperated enough for me to test out the Astrophotography mode on both devices, but alas, bomb cyclones. I'm hoping to at least get a few Astro shots on the Pixel 6 before my full review is due, as I already know the Pixel 5 handles stars like a champ. Be on the lookout for my full review and more camera samples coming soon. I love taking pictures with the Pixel 6, so there won't be a shortage of camera content. Camera shootout between Pixel 6 and Pixel 5 below!

Pixel 6 (left) vs. Pixel 5 (right)

2X Zoom

Pixel 6 Night Sight Off vs. On

Pixel 5 Night Sight Off vs. On

Pixel 6 4K @ 60FPS Sample https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EascnS1ERs&ab_channel=Tim-o-tato Pixel 5 4K @ 60FPS Sample https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYQFJHK9Ns8&ab_channel=Tim-o-tato

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Don't Have Face Unlock

Kellen — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 09:11:23 +0000

In the lead-up to the full reveal of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, one of the retail listings that leaked gave us the impression that Google's new phones would support both fingerprint and face unlock options. In an image showcasing the new "Security" page of Pixel phones with Android 12, a section labeled "Face and Fingerprint Unlock" could be seen and had us excited to have multiple options to get past the lockscreen. However, now that both phones are here, we have the unfortunate pleasure of telling you that face unlock did not make the cut. If you open a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro today and jump into Security settings, you will only find "Fingerprint Unlock" as one of the additional lockscreen bypasses. You can see a screenshot of it below, as well as a search I ran on the device for "face unlock." We aren't sure if the mock-ups used by retailers were wrong or if Google was hinting at a feature that might have missed the cut at launch and could now come with a later update. So you are aware, Carphone Warehouse's Pixel 6 Pro listing still shows that image above. In fact, I grabbed that image from their website today.

Face unlock would be a welcomed addition to the security setup on a Pixel 6. If you happened to read my "A Week With the Google Pixel 6 Pro" write-up, you'll know that I am not at all a fan of the optical fingerprint reader used by Google. It's slow to read your finger, errors out on the regular, and is often a nuisance more than it is a convenient form of security. A face unlock, even though so many of us are still wearing masks regularly, would be nice to have. Of course, the face unlock on a Pixel 6 wouldn't be as advanced as it is on a device like the Pixel 4, which was built specifically to have a fancy face unlock system. However, Google could still do it without all of the infrared and radar stuff. Samsung and OnePlus are constantly including face unlock that simply uses the front cameras of their phones. There is always a chance that Google has plans to add face unlock. Pixel phones receive regular Pixel Feature Drop updates that add new sets of features and this would be a great new feature. We also know that Google is preparing another Android 12 beta build in December. Maybe we'll see it then.

Google's Weather Widget Grows to 4x2 to Show Hourly Forecasts

Kellen — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 08:31:18 +0000

On the day that Google announced the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, they pushed an update to the Google app that gave us the two Material You weather widgets we've been impatiently tapping our fingers over for weeks. Now today, Google has pushed another update that introduces a tweak to one of the widgets that offers more information in a bigger size. The square 2x2 weather widget is now a 4x2 weather widget that will not only show current, high, and low temperatures, it also includes a 4-hour forecast and weather description. It's a handy option for those wanting more info without having to tap on the weather widget for more. Of course, these widgets can be adjusted, so if you liked the 2x2 square, you can still have that. Simply long-press on the 4x2, then grab the adjusters to shrink it down to 2x2 as I've done below. This update is likely through the beta version of the Google app first. To grab it or join the beta program, hit that link below. Google Play Link: Google App

Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro: Ask Us Anything

Tim — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 09:40:24 +0000

As you have maybe seen, the big embargo on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro has been lifted this morning, meaning you're about to get some serious Google flagship news overload. We think that's pretty exciting, as we have a lot of things we want to share with you about these phones but were previously unable.

Watch: First 10 Things to Do With Pixel 6 Pro!

Starting today, we can say whatever we want, and as Kellen and I both work on providing you in-depth reviews on both devices, we wanted to provide you, our amazing readers, with an opportunity to ask us anything that might be on your mind for the Pixel 6 lineup. Along these lines, Kellen has already posted a 'Week With Pixel 6 Pro' that has great insights into life with Google's latest. It's entirely possible that your very own Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro pre-order is soon inbound from Google. Until it arrives, maybe you're curious about battery life? Or what about that facial recognition everyone keeps asking about? Spoiler alert: There's no facial recognition. Want to talk camera features or Android 12? Whatever your question may be, we can talk about it now, so let us have 'em. Kellen and I will live in the comments on this post, allowing anybody to throw questions or comments our way. We'll field them as they arrive.

Google Pixel 6 Pro: First 10 Things To Do!

Kellen — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 09:00:24 +0000

You've seen enough initial reviews and are now looking forward to your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro pre-order arriving in a couple of days. There is only so much you can read about Tensor and the camera and Android 12 and battery life, so we have something different for you today. To get you prepared for your new phone, these are the First 10 Things To Do with your Pixel 6. In this video, we walk you through the 10 areas we think you should focus on with your Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro the minute you get it out of the box and jump past the setup screen. These are our recommendations to help you get the most out of a Pixel 6 from day one and into the future. We cover security and that new in-display fingerprint reader, customizing the Pixel 6's lock screen, playing with wallpapers and how they can theme Android 12 throughout apps and settings, the most important change to make to the app drawer, how to access Google Assistant (it's changed!), which display settings to adjust, our favorite gestures, and what you need to know about this new camera. As always, this First 10 Things video is long, but that's because we talk through each area and why they are so important. I can't wait for you all to get your phones. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwzkxbF9FAs

A Week With the Google Pixel 6 Pro

Kellen — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 09:00:13 +0000

We are free to talk about the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro starting today, so prepare yourselves for a wave of content. There is a lot to talk about with these phones, if they live up to the hype they've created, how the cameras perform, if Tensor is a game-changer, and if we plan to continue using either going forward. We will most certainly have reviews of each phone up before the end of the week with more complete thoughts, but as you are well aware, the review embargo ended today and I'm sure you would like to hear some of our initial thoughts. So, that's what I have here to give you a bit of a taste of how I'm feeling after using the big guy, the Pixel 6 Pro for the past 7 days. This post won't go into a lot of detail and is instead more of a quick hitter. I'm hoping it'll feed that appetite before phones launch in a couple of days.

Performance (Google Tensor)

Google's first smartphone processor is Tensor and there will be plenty of processor talk from the guys who know processors inside-and-out. I'm not that guy, so apologies now if you were expecting a breakdown of cores and what matters when and with a series of benchmarks. That's not my expertise. What I can tell you about Google Tensor in the Pixel 6 Pro is that when you use this phone, you won't stop regularly and wonder what that hiccup was from or why that app or the Assistant is loading slowly or why it's now burning your hand after playing a game. What you will notice is how snappy and polished everything feels from one task to another. The processor here is doing the right amounts of work when necessary to leave you feeling like this phone can do it all. The camera loads and snaps instant shots in a way I haven't seen since that one on-stage Galaxy Nexus demo. Every app I need is ready right when I need it without hesitation. The minimal amounts of games I've run have had no issues and I haven't noticed the phone getting extra hot or warm like some of the recent Snapdragon 888 phones. For another comparison, know that I've been mostly using an iPhone 13 Pro for the past couple of weeks and this Pixel 6 Pro feels on-par if not smoother than Apple's best phone. There is a softness to the touch and the way Android 12 moves from an activation you get from finger to motion through this display that is unmatched right now. I know there will likely be unflattering benchmarks for this phone because of the mix of old and new that Google has used, but I'm telling you this phone hasn't slowed in my week with it. I haven't for a second stopped and thought, "Well, this new processor was a bad move from Google." Google Tensor is off to a great start.

Camera

Now, I wish I could sit here today and tell you that I've put this camera through all the tests and that it's the best camera setup ever put in a smartphone. However, we've been destroyed by "bomb cyclones" for the past several days and it hasn't exactly been photography weather. My initial impressions of the 50MP x 12MP x 48MP camera on the Pixel 6 Pro are that Google has a winner, but I need to spend more time in different situations. The camera is stupid fast, it has a couple of fun new motion-related modes I want to play with, and I'd love to shoot the stars if Portland would ever let me again. For today, I'll leave you with a few samples and tell you to "stay tuned" for much more from the camera either today or tomorrow.

Battery life

The Pixel 6 Pro packs a large 5000mAh battery and has 30W fast charging, as well as 23W wireless charging (from the new Pixel Stand which isn't available yet). In my testing, battery life has been pretty average if not slightly disappointing at times. My best day was day 1, where I grabbed a screenshot at 11:30PM and had 15% battery remaining and 4 hours of screen on time. I did have another heavy use day with 6.5 hours of screen on time and 13% battery left at 9PM. But then one day I was down to 14% at 7PM with 4 hours of screen on time. There were others where I definitely grabbed a charger for an hour, just to make sure we were good. If anything, this phone still feels like it's learning my habits and which apps it can shutdown to further expand it using its "Adaptive" skills. The apps that show as using the most battery from day to day keep changing, some of which are apps I've barely touched.

UPDATE: Because my battery life has been so weird, I'm factory resetting as I type this to give it a fresh go. I'll see where the new results take me when we get to the full review.

I don't want to say battery life has been getting worse, but maybe more confusing. That's partly why we are still testing and not posting our reviews today. At this point, battery life is a mixed bag of good and bad.

Display

The display, at least so far, is pretty great. The 120Hz is stupidly smooth, touch responsiveness is top notch, colors and low-end brightness are excellent (Extra dim!), and viewing angles are great. There isn't a lot to complain about with this massive 6.7" QHD AMOLED panel. Need me to complain about something? Yeah, the curve is unnecessary and I wish Google had realized that people no longer want curved displays in 2021. It's not the most obnoxious curve ever, it's just that it can be annoying in situations where you need to access touch points near the edge of the display. At least Google did try to end the display about mid-way through the curve, so I haven't actually run into many issues with it. Oh, as far as brightness goes, Google said that this phone has a high brightness mode and I'm not sure that mode is very bright. Pixel phones are known for being a littler dimmer than the rest of the phones on the market and that sure seems to be the case again here. At full brightness, even in a lowly lit space, this phone barely makes my eyes say, "Ow, that's bright." I wish I could tell you how it performed in sunlight, but (again) it's been pouring for days in Portland and we have zero sun. Overall, the display is very nice. Yes, it would be nice if there wasn't a curve, but this isn't the worst curve I've used.

Design, size, hardware

For the most part, I like the look and design of the Pixel 6 Pro, with its multi-shade backside, the weight of it in hand, and the curves from front to back and back to front that give you a smooth touch experience as you use it. That's about where my likes end, though. The massive camera bar on the back is likely going to be an acquired taste and it doesn't completely offend me. My biggest issue with it is when you pull it in and out of a pocket because it can be a pain if it catches from either direction. Using a case should help here, I'm just not a case user. I also don't love the gloss finish everywhere from the back to the sides, as this black model I have is constantly covered in smudges and fingerprints. It's supposed to have a fingerprint resistant coating, but...lol. The real issue, which you probably guessed because this is me writing, is the size. This is an enormous phone, with its 6.7" display and ridiculously long body. It matches up almost identical to my wife's Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. While I know so many people love a big-screened phone, I'm quite sad that Google didn't give us big and small options this year for the Pro. As an active human, the past week has seen me leave the Pixel 6 Pro at home often if I need to go for a run or workout, because this monstrosity just isn't built for those kinds of activities. It feels fragile, it's too big to use with one hand, and it's kind of slippery. The Pixel 6 Pro also gives me anxiety every time I set it down. It has Gorilla Glass covering everything, but I'm coming off using the Pixel 5 for a year, a phone that I absolutely tossed around without hesitation because it lacked the use of rear glass. Glass is bad on the backs of phones, if that wasn't clear. It's a terrible material that is fragile and only looks pretty for a few minutes before you touch it. The Pixel 6 Pro is certainly a unique phone from top to bottom that will standout in a crowd and I can appreciate that. I'm glad that Google went a little weird with the design. Small phone lovers, this one isn't for you, unfortunately.

Some other notes:

Fingerprint reader: It's pretty bad at the moment. It's an optical reader that lights up an area as you use it to scan your finger, like you would see on a OnePlus phone. The reader is mostly slow, sometimes takes extra seconds to figure out that you are scanning, and errors out often. Something about the slowness and errors feel software related, so I'm hopeful that Google can dial it in to make it more usable. I'd also love a face unlock option to go along with it. Either way, Google's first in-display reader is off to a poor start.
Android 12: This newest version of Android from Google is such a damn joy to use everyday. Like, if there was one thing I wish everyone could experience on their own from this phone, it would be the software. Android 12 is the best skin in the scene, looks beautiful, and has me so excited for the future of the platform. Google has finally put together an incredibly polished version of Android that only its Pixel phones get and it is a major selling point.
Pricing: The pricing for these phones is absurd...in a good way. At $899, I can't think of a better phone for the money. I'm also quite excited to switch over to a regular Pixel 6 after this to see what $599 gets me, because it should be similar.

Alright, that's all I've got for the day. Let us know if you have questions.

Podcast: PIXEL 6!

Kellen — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 09:44:04 +0000

On this episode of the Droid Life Show, well, you know we're talking about the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Sure, Android 12 went stable today, but Google's new phones own all of tech at the moment. We also happen to have both phones, so we'll share some thoughts, at least the ones we can. Join us! We’ll be live at 11:00AM Pacific (2:00PM Eastern).

Forget to Add Free Pixel Buds A to Your Pixel 6 Order on Google Store? Don't Fret, Google's Got You

Tim — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 08:24:00 +0000

In all of the chaos and commotion caused by the Great Google Store Crash of 2021, which took place the morning of October 19 at exactly 10:01am Pacific (one minute after Google opened pre-orders for its new Pixel 6 devices), many buyers forgot that there was a promotion in place that would allow them to get a free pair of Pixel Buds A earbuds. To claim the free pair of buds, all buyers had to do was manually add them to their cart, then the Google Store would automatically apply a $99 coupon and the buyer would receive the buds for free. However, because this promotion wasn't labeled great, on top of site's many issues that dreadful October 19 morning, a lot of Pixel 6 buyers did not get their free pair of Pixel Buds A earbuds. Today, Google is recognizing this and doing the right thing. In a statement from Google.

If you're eligible for the Pixel Buds A-Series promotion but forgot to add Pixel Buds A-Series to your phone order, don’t worry. We’ll send an email by November 3rd with next steps on how to redeem the offer.

This is a hero move. Pardon me while I lick a little boot. By no means do I think Google is legally obligated to hand out Pixel Buds A earbuds to everyone who didn't realize they needed to add the earbuds to their cart manually. I think this is simply Google recognizing that October 19 was a giant clusterf*ck and this is their way of trying to make up for that fact. Heck, even Kellen and I didn't realize we missed out on Pixel Buds A earbuds until our orders were in, so we're pretty pleased with how this is working out. Thank you, Google. If you're eligible, be on the lookout for that email. // Google

Samsung October Updates: Galaxy Note 10 and S10 Lines are Smiling

Kellen — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 14:22:11 +0000

Following an update from last week to the newer sets of Samsung phones (S20, S21, Note 20, etc.), the company is now pushing the October update to some of its older, still-supported models, as well as last year's Galaxy Z Fold. If you own a Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy S20 FE, Galaxy Note 10, or Galaxy S10 phone, be on the lookout for a fresh round of updates with the latest Android security patch. None of these updates offer anything major (not even performance improvements or new camera features), as they are just a patch before we (hopefully) start to see Samsung push Android 12 and One UI 4 out. While most of these phones may not see that update for some time, they should get it. Here are the new builds for those who own one of these Samsung phones:

Galaxy Z Fold 2: RP1A.200720.012.F916USQS2EUI3
Galaxy S20 FE: RP1A.200720.012.G781VSQU5DUJ2
Galaxy Note10+ 5G: RP1A.200720.012.N976VVRS7FUI6
Galaxy Note 10+: RP1A.200720.012.N975USQS7FUI6
Galaxy Note 10: RP1A.200720.012.N970USQS7FUI6
Galaxy S10 5G: RP1A.200720.012.G977UVRS8FUJ1
Galaxy S10+: RP1A.200720.012.G975USQS6GUJ2
Galaxy S10: RP1A.200720.012.G973USQS6GUJ2
Galaxy S10e: RP1A.200720.012.G970USQS6GUJ2

To check for the update, head into Settings>System updates>Check for system updates.

T-Mobile Will Spend $1,000 to Get You to Switch From Verizon or AT&T

Kellen — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:42:06 +0000

Starting tomorrow, T-Mobile is going to make an offer that will be easy to consider if you are currently a customer of Verizon or AT&T and wouldn't mind making the move over to the "Uncarrier." A new promotion will get you enough money to payoff your current phone in order to get you on their network and using all of the 5G they claim to have. The promo seems pretty simple at first glance. All you have to do is make sure your current phone is eligible and will work on T-Mobile's network (it likely will work just fine), then take a screenshot of your current device payment plan balance or last bill, and then T-Mobile will issue you up to $1,000 via virtual prepaid card (received in up to 15 days) to turn around and pay it off with your old carrier. Got a whole family you'd like to bring over to T-Mobile? The promo actually covers "$1,000 for each of up to five devices," so bring everyone over and get those phone bills wiped away. The fine print suggests that the phones you plan to bring over will need to be unlocked and that T-Mobile can help you with that or at least tell you how to do it. They may also require some proof that you have been with your previous carrier for at least 90 days and that you are in good standing with them. Which devices are eligible? Again, the chances of you having one that'll work on T-Mobile are pretty high. In the current promo from T-Mobile, where they are offering $800 for switching over, they list out phones like the iPhone 12 Pro down to the iPhone 6s, Pixel 4 to Pixel 2, and Galaxy S20 and Note 20 down to the Galaxy S8. I'd imagine they'll take care of the newer wave of phones from this year too, but we'll have to confirm that when the promo goes live on October 22. Start the switch to T-Mobile here.

Google Calendar Gets New 'Focus Time' Entry Option

Tim — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 10:50:56 +0000

When creating an event in Google Calendar, users can choose between different types of entries. For a while, it's been Event, Out of Office, Task, and Appointment Slot. This month, Google is adding another, called Focus Time. This entry option is designed to let you know that this time is dedicated to only you and whatever it is you may need to work on. Whether that be work-related or school work, it's your time to get 'er done. Google says, "We’re introducing a new Google Calendar entry type, Focus time, so you can block out and protect your time for heads-down individual work. Similar to the Out of office event type, focus time has a different appearance on your calendar and includes the option to automatically decline conflicting events."

To begin, Focus Time will be available to Google Workspace Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Education Fundamentals, Education Teaching & Learning Upgrade, Education Standard, Education Plus, and Nonprofits customers. Specifically, it is not available to Google Workspace Essentials, Business Starter, Enterprise Essentials, and Frontline users, as well as G Suite Basic and Business customers. So yeah, if you're eligible for this, be on the lookout. // Google

Google's Smart Home Platform Now Called "Google Home"

Kellen — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 10:19:06 +0000

The Google Smart Home Developer Summit kicks off today and Google is wasting no time with the announcements. The biggest bit of news is that they now have a real name for their smart home platform, but there's also news that relates back to Android and how your smart home gadgets will soon communicate better with your phone. Since this news is coming out of a developer summit, and we're not developers, I'll let the developers in the building head over to Google's blog post with all of the details to go in-depth. For the rest of us, here's what you need to know.

Google Home is the platform name.

I know this might shock you, but apparently Google didn't already call its smart home platform "Google Home." It is called that now with a re-introduction of sorts. This is the name for the platform that runs on smart speakers and displays, Nest devices, and all that. It's also pulling in the tools that developers will use to develop for Google Home. So yeah, Google Home is here...which is cool.

Matter on Android through Google Play Services.

The other thing I think everyone should know today is that Google is building Matter into Android to make device setup flows seamless on devices like your phone. What the hell is Matter? It's the smart home protocol that Google "and other leading, innovative companies" came together to develop to make it super "easy to build, buy, and setup smart home devices." Read about Matter here. As for why this Android integration is important, it'll really just make setting up smart home devices easier than ever through your phone. Developers can build in imagery of the products, similar to Fast Pair, let you attach devices to apps in a couple of taps, that sort of thing. It's all about ease of setup and then use, because setting things up from your smartphone should be easy, not frustrating to do.

New stuff in the Google Home app too.

The Google Home app, which is kind of a mess, yet a necessary evil if you own a smart home, is also going to get more in the near future. Google wants developers to use the Google Home app to do things like suggest routines you can use with their products and hint at features or capabilities someone might not be using. To get a clearer understanding of what's about to happen, here is Google's bulleted list:

Customizable setup flows built into Android and Google Home that let your users experience the magic of your device with just a few taps right out of the box.
Native Matter apps on Android your users can discover and connect to in one streamlined setup flow.
Suggested routines to help your users do more with your devices.
New ways for users to discover and use your devices’ capabilities within the Google Home app.
the new Google Home Developer Center that brings developer and marketing tools together in one place, to help you and your team quickly bring all this to market.

Alright, Google Home!

GeForce NOW Intros New RTX 3080 Performance Tier, $100 for 6 Months of Access

Tim — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 08:31:18 +0000

For the cloud gamers among us, you should probably know about NVIDIA's new GeForce NOW performance tier, known as GeForce NOW RTX 3080. Essentially, NVIDIA has created new supercomputers in the cloud, powered by RTX 3080 equivalent cards, allowing gamers to stream titles in the highest possible quality with extremely low latency.

GeForce NOW RTX 3080 Basics

The basics of what you need to know is, the RTX 3080 tier offers 4K streams at up to 120 FPS on PC and Mac clients, 4K HDR on NVIDIA SHIELD, and up to 120FPS on the GeForce NOW Android app. Furthermore, while most GeForce NOW users will experience a discernible reduction in latency, RTX 3080 members streaming at 120 FPS will observe the, "greatest benefits through high frame rate synchronization," according to NVIDIA in its blog post. "In the lowest latency mode, these members can experience total latency as low as 60ms — comparable to the latest game consoles." This is all made possible by NVIDIA new SuperPOD. As detailed, each cloud SuperPOD consists of over 1,000 GPUs that deliver more than 39 petaflops of graphics horsepower. Each instance is 35 teraflops of performance, nearly 3x that of an Xbox Series X. SuperPODs are outfitted with AMD Threadripper PRO CPUs, 28GB of DDR-3200 memory, and PCI-GEN4 SSDs. I don't even know what that stuff means but it sounds fancy.

Pricing

GeForce NOW Founders and Priority members have early access to preorder GeForce NOW RTX 3080 starting today. Six-month memberships cost $99.99, with availability in North America starting in November and in Europe in December. Pre-orders will open broadly to all gamers later this month, pending availability. According to NVIDIA, quantities are limited. Priority memberships continue to be available starting at $9.99 per month. These members get access to performance rigs that turn RTX ON, extended session lengths, and faster access to gaming servers. New Priority members will be eligible to pre-order RTX 3080 memberships after registering. For more detailed information, check out NVIDIA's blog post linked below. Additional SuperPOD information can be viewed here, too. // NVIDIA

Poll: You Buying a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro?

Kellen — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 15:13:11 +0000

Yeah, we should probably do the poll thing, now that everything is official. With pricing, specs, colors, variants, 5G support, cameras, software, and update expectations all known, as well as a launch date marked on the calendar, are you buying a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro? We've talked about the wild pricing that Google is going with, shared an unboxing with comparison between the two, and now that the Google Store is back up and running, ordering shouldn't be difficult (assuming there are stock levels still). Did Google finally do it? Did they finally deliver high-end phones without compromise that also happen to be at prices that are accessible to even more people? Everything we've seen so far sure paints that picture. We have review units in house and are working through our testing experiences to get you our final thoughts, but many of you have likely seen almost enough already. It's time to tell us below. [poll id="576"]

OnePlus Black Friday Deals Aim Directly at Pixel 6 Lineup

Tim — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 14:09:28 +0000

As I wrote earlier today, I'm curious to see how other Android device manufactures set their pricing following the announcement of Google's Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Google is out here undercutting everybody with two very solid devices, and in my mind, changes may need to be made moving forward with regard to device pricing. Possibly coincidental or maybe not, OnePlus is already previewing what it intends to do for Black Friday, which is super odd timing with all of the Google hype currently in full swing. OnePlus announced that between November 26 and November 30, aka Black Friday thru Giving Tuesday, you'll be able to get a OnePlus 9 for $599 and the OnePlus 9 Pro for $799. That's a $130 savings on the OnePlus 9 and $270 discount on the 9 Pro. Directly comparing that to the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, this sale makes the OnePlus 9 the same price as the Pixel 6 and the 9 Pro an even cheaper device at $100 under the Pixel 6 Pro's $899 price tag. Touché, OnePlus. While this isn't a forever markdown, it's a good move by OnePlus to remind folks that they still have to very capable devices, soon to be at much better pricing. It's an intriguing deal, for sure. Plan on taking advantage of this? We'll let you know when these deals are live.

There is a New Pixel Stand, You Just Can't Buy It Yet

Kellen — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 11:11:28 +0000

If you were wondering why there was no mention yesterday of a new Pixel Stand, that's because you can't buy it yet. Google is indeed making one, and it's labeled as "coming soon" on the Google Store, though. The new Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) is a $79 replacement to the original and it has several upgrades. This new Pixel Stand is capable of 23W wireless charging speeds on Pixel phones and up to 15W on non-Pixel phones. It includes a USB-C-to-C cable and a 30W power adapter, in case you want to wire into your Pixel 6 and charge it even faster. The stand is made of TPU and polycarbonate and uses "approximately" 39% recycled materials. Oh, there's also a fan inside to keep things cool, and Google say it is "nearly silent." Should you be interested in buying this new Pixel Stand, you'll have to stay tuned. Google has not given a launch date.

Google Store Link

Samsung Pushing Big Update to Galaxy Watch 4 Lineup

Tim — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 10:44:50 +0000

Samsung is pushing a new update to the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. Inside, you'll find new watch faces plus new features, and after looking at the changelog, this is a really solid upgrade for both devices.

Watch Faces

Samsung lists four new watch faces to choose from. One of them is a new Info Brick which lets you add all of the stats you care about the most to your face. Also listed is a watch face that displays in-depth weather forecast, a basic dashboard, or even live wallpapers that are inspired by Samsung's latest foldables. Additionally, users you can mix and match up to four complications to display on the Animals watch face and you can now also choose a moving GIF for the My Photo+ watch face, rather than just a static photo.

Gestures

Samsung is including a new hand motion gesture that can act as a shortcut to activate a chosen app or feature on the watch. By doing a simple ‘knock knock’ motion with your wrist, you can open a pre-selected app, open the list of workouts, turn on a light, or even create a new reminder.

Fall Detection Sensitivity

Fall Detection sensitivity has also been added, now capable of detecting a fall even when you’re standing still. On top of that, the watches can send out an SOS notification to up to four pre-selected contacts, just in case.

Check out the complete changelog below, which also lists a new HR measurement algorithm and support mute status. The update is rolling out right now to units. Be on the lookout!

// Samsung Cheers Justin!

Pixel 6 and 5G: This Should Clear Things Up

Kellen — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 10:08:51 +0000

5G is so dumb. OK, that out of the way, let's talk about the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro and which versions have which kinds of 5G, because again, 5G is dumb. Shortly after yesterday's announcement from Google, people started attempting to pre-order the Pixel 6 line-up. Whether that was over a 3-hour span of hell on the Google Store or from a carrier or Best Buy, it's obvious that a number of you want what Google has cooked up. But then came the questions about 5G support after Google's own documentation and Google Store listings show what appear to be all sorts of errors or incorrect messages. Do some models have all the 5G? Do some have only sub-6 and not mmW? What's deal? Here's the deal, as shared with us by Google this morning:

Pixel 6 Pro: In the US, all versions of the Pixel 6 Pro have both sub-6 and 5G mmW support. That would be model G8VOU on the Google Store. Across the globe, that may differ and you may find some versions without 5G mmW support, just not in the US. If you are buying unlocked or Verizon or AT&T or T-Mobile models in the US, the Pixel 6 Pro will have both sub-6 and 5G mmW support.
Pixel 6 (unlocked & T-Mobile, $599): The unlocked version of the Pixel 6 (model GB7N6), as well as the version T-Mobile sells, which starts as low as $599, does not have 5G mmW support. You do have sub-6 5G, but not the super fast mmW stuff that you'll never attach to anyway because mmW is bad technology, barely works through a window, and is on 5 total blocks in about 30 cities. OK, that last part is me being a snide prick, but just know that the unlocked Pixel 6 does not have mmW support.
Pixel 6 (carrier models, $699): If you buy the Pixel 6 directly from Verizon or AT&T, it costs $699 or $739 (wtf, AT&T?) and does indeed support both sub-6 and mmW. If you buy the Verizon version from the Google Store (model G9S9B), the same applies. That extra mmW support is why it costs extra.

All good? Shop away.

Samsung Intros Bespoke'd Galaxy Z Flip 3, Kitsuné Galaxy Watch 4 and Buds 2

Tim — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 09:08:32 +0000

Samsung introduced new device variants this morning -- the Bespoke Edition of the Galaxy Z Flip 3, plus new Galaxy Buds 2 and Galaxy Watch 4 models part of a Samsung x Maison Kitsuné collaboration.

Review: Galaxy Z Flip 3 | In Every Way an Upgrade

Each of these devices are available now, with the Galaxy Z Flip 3 Bespoke Edition priced at $1099 (256GB model), the Galaxy Buds 2 at $249 (typically $149), and the Galaxy Watch 4 at $399 (typically $249). As you can see, you'll be paying a premium for these new Kitsuné models, but if you're into that sorta thing, then by all means. The Bespoke Edition of the Galaxy Z Flip 3 has customized exterior color options, with buyers able to choose from 49 possible combinations. Samsung is also offering Bespoke Upgrade Care for buyers, allowing them to change the device color whenever they want to. According to details, Bespoke Edition owners can register to replace their device panel with new colors on Samsung's website for free starting in November, "ensuring their device keeps pace with their evolving style."

As for the Kitsuné collab, these are the same Galaxy Buds 2 and Galaxy Watch 4 40mm devices we know and love. There's nothing changed, except for the exteriors. But yes, they do look sweet with that little fox. If interested, follow the links below.

Buy: Z Flip 3 Bespoke | Watch 4 | Buds 2

Google Just Changed the Way We Think About Smartphone Pricing

Tim — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 08:06:58 +0000

I'm not sure this was their intention, but with the announcement of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google just changed the way we think about smartphone pricing. I'm not trying to exaggerate or making a story out of nothing, but considering the Pixel 6's starting price of only $599, Google shocked a lot of people and it should be noted across the industry -- the same industry that has seen device pricing reach insane heights over the past few years.

Why are we surprised?

Google has thrown us way off here. Earlier this year, Google said we should expect expensive Pixel phones, so we prepared ourselves for $1K+ devices. We kept hearing about premium specs and hardware upgrades across the board. We learned about years worth of software updates and in-house Tensor processors. Basically, Google could have slapped any high price on these phones and we would have found a way to justify it in our minds. But that's not what happened at all. Instead, we have a $599+ Pixel 6, which is cheaper than the Pixel 5's launch price (LOL), plus a $899+ Pixel 6 Pro. That's pretty damn remarkable when you consider what we thought we'd have to spend. So what's the deal? Is Google taking a fat loss on these phones or is someone else to blame? Someone possibly named Qualcomm? Sadly, we may never be privy to knowing just how much it costs manufacturers to include Snapdragon silicon, but we have to assume it's a very pretty penny and eats up a lot of profit on device sales. Are we seeing much better Pixel prices because Google is no longer having to pay Qualcomm? Or is Google realizing that it'd rather lose money on the hardware in order to get people boarded onto its software services and data harvesters. This is the sixth generation of Pixel devices, so you'd imagine they could have made this decision previously. With that said, I'm going to lean towards Qualcomm being a main issue, but will likely never know for sure.

What Does This Mean for Samsung, OnePlus, etc.?

This move can't mean great things for Google's competition, which is pretty much down to just Samsung and OnePlus. While both of those companies keep releasing nice phones, but for big amounts of money, Google just swooped in and undercut them both in a big way. The Pixel 6 Pro has an amazing spec list, easily comparable to top devices from Samsung and OnePlus, but comes in a lot cheaper. That's a good deal, but beyond specs, you're also getting the timely software support you should expect when spending that kind of money. OnePlus and Samsung can't compete there because they have their custom skins and UI experiences to worry about. What I would like to see is Google's Tensor chip be successful, then maybe a possible adoption of some kind by others to get more makers off of Qualcomm. If this move could help lower costs for other devices, that would be good. I would understand if Google wants to keep Tensor exclusive, but at the same time, if they want to go to war with Qualcomm, attacking its marketshare would be key.

Looking Forward

Because of the Pixel 6 lineup's pricing, how do other companies react with their upcoming releases? If they don't try to bring down their own prices, I'd assume buyers would see them as overpriced and not offering as much as Google does in the Pixels at a lower price point. Why would anyone buy a OnePlus 10 Pro at $1100-ish when there's the Pixel 6 Pro at hundreds cheaper? Same could be said for a Galaxy S22 Ultra, but Samsung is so well established in the market that I'm not sure they have too much to worry about. But seriously, are the days of $1K flagships already behind us? 2022 will be an interesting year for pricing and availability, with the chip shortage still taking its toll on everything.

If You Buy a Spigen Pixel 6 Case, They'll Give You a Free 30W Charger

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 15:41:23 +0000

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are Google's fastest charging phones to date, with speeds of up to 30W getting you a 50% fill-up in 30 minutes or so. Unfortunately, Google didn't include a 30W charger in the box, leaving you hunting for deals on one that'll let you take full advantage of those impressive speeds. If you missed out on our super giveaway with Aukey, we've got another decent deal to share. The folks at Spigen are running a promotion where they'll just give you a free 30W charger if you buy one of their Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro cases. The charger is their ArcStation Pro 30W wall charger that is listed at $34.99. It's engineered with GaN technology, so it's a tiny little charger, yet still capable of producing those fabulous 30W speeds. It connects via USB-C, which Google did include in the box with the Pixel 6. All you have to do to get it for free is buy one of their cases for the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro. Their website says you have to spend $30 to get the free charger, but adding the Slim Fit or Liquid Air cases appears to work and those only cost $24.99. Once you add a case to cart, you should see a pop-up for the free charger. The deal runs through October 31.

Shop Spigen Pixel 6 cases

Google Plans Future Android 12 Beta Releases and You Can Test Them

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 13:20:11 +0000

Android 12 might have gone stable today, with rollout to supported Pixel phones already happening, but this is not the end of the Android 12 Beta program. Google has quietly announced that there will be future pre-release updates for you to test if you are interested. In the Android Beta subreddit, Google said today that these new pre-release updates will include Pixel Feature Drops, bug fixes, and other improvements to stability and performance, all ahead of when they would release to the stable channel for everyone else. That's huge news! An ongoing Android Beta program is now officially a thing for Pixel phones. Here's the note they posted about it:

What’s next for Android 12 Beta program? You now have the opportunity to continue in the beta program on your Pixel device(s) and receive ongoing Android 12 pre-release updates including feature drops, bug fixes, and improvements to stability and performance ahead of the public release schedule starting in December. Important: If you prefer to leave the beta program for Pixel and return to the public stable track of Android 12, you have a window of opportunity to unenroll without wiping your device. Please update and install today’s official release and then unenroll by December 1st before the next beta update releases. This will ensure your device will not get wiped during opt-out. If you take no action and keep your Pixel device enrolled in the beta program, you will automatically get the next Android 12 beta updates starting in December. If you opt-out of the program after installing the December beta update, all user data on the device will get wiped per usual program guidelines. The Android Beta issue tracker and Beta Feedback app are closed, but please keep the feedback coming! You can file a new issue against Android 12 in the AOSP issue tracker or share your thoughts via our Pixel Reddit community or official support channels. We will continue to post updates and information on the upcoming December Android Beta release here in this community at which point the Beta feedback channels (issue tracker and Feedback app) will be made available.

So if you are interested in future pre-release updates and you are enrolled in the Android Beta program, you can stay in the program to continue to get those updates. The first one should be here in December. However, if you don't want to continue testing beta builds of Android updates, you can unenroll from the Android Beta program, but you have a limited time to do so, otherwise getting off the beta track will fully wipe your phone. If you update to stable Android 12 and then unenroll before December, you'll stick with the stable track going forward. To opt-in or opt-out of the Android Beta Program, hit up this link. More Android 12 Beta builds are coming!

Ordering a Pixel 6 is a Mess and People are Justifiably Upset

Tim — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:40:50 +0000

Poor, Google. They may have a winner on their hands with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, but in true Google device launch fashion, the Google Store can't keep up with demand. As I've been a victim of this chaos myself, I can confirm that the Google Store site crashed at 10:01am Pacific one minute after pre-orders went live. It would pop up sporadically with brief periods of time where people could add the phone to their cart, but for the most part, the site has been unusable with no one able to place orders. Because of all of this, many Pixel 6 hopefuls are having orders canceled, phones removed from carts due to availability, and plenty of other issues. Naturally, Twitter has been a good place to find a few disgruntled people. While Google works to fix its website, we wanted to take this time to share a bit of the frustration people are going through. If you're one of them, do know that you are not alone and even us at Droid Life are going through the same thing. This is supposed to be a fun day, Google, not a frustrating one. https://twitter.com/Mark_R_Baff/status/1450525805554044934 https://twitter.com/Ribanez2009/status/1450525774516211720 https://twitter.com/kevin_leavey/status/1450525675555901447 https://twitter.com/trugandhi/status/1450528201512525833 https://twitter.com/gksmithlcw/status/1450525721143697409 https://twitter.com/Arvid/status/1450527099052249090 https://twitter.com/Timotato/status/1450519175458267138

Android 12 is Live, OTA Rolling Out to Pixel Phones

Tim — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:42:21 +0000

If the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro excitement wasn't enough for you this morning, Google just released Android 12. No longer in beta, this is Android 12's final form, complete with all of the Material You goodness we've been watching trickle out over the course of this year. The update is available to Pixel devices to start, all the way back to the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. If you own a Pixel device, the OTA update should be hitting your device right about now. Here's a taste of what's new in Android 12.

What's New in Android 12?

Material You: Android 12 brings an entirely new feel to Android, with deep device customization and new looks for apps and the device UI. When you change your wallpaper, the entire Android 12 experience changes to match its colors, thanks to "advanced color extraction algorithms." This new dynamic color experience is available on Pixel first and will be coming to more device makers and phones soon.
Widgets: Widgets are back in a big way, with Google revamping the appearance of many of them. They play a big part in the Material You push, so be sure to check them out.
Visibility: Google pushes visibility in Android 12, too. For example, a new window magnifier lets a user zoom in on a part of the screen while preserving the rest of the screen context. Additionally, the new "extra dim" screen lighting toggle allows you to really crank down your display's brightness when needed.

Privacy and Privacy Dashboard: When apps are using your microphone or camera, a new light will appear in the corner of your device, letting you know when those things are being used. If you don’t want any apps to access your microphone or camera, you can completely disable the sensors using two new toggles in Quick Settings. For the new Privacy Dashboard, it gives you an overview of when apps access your location, camera or mic over the past 24 hours. If you see anything you don't like, you can manage permissions right from the dashboard.
Location: Android 12 allows you to choose between giving apps access to your precise location or an approximate location instead.
Bluetooth Permissions: New Bluetooth permissions in Android 12 allow companion apps to connect to devices like watches or headphones without needing to access your location information.

We have plenty of posts detailing everything that's been added to Android 12 over the course of the beta. We suggest you check it out. Enjoy, Pixel owners! Everyone else, continue to be patient. // Google

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Get 3 OS Updates, 5 Years of Security Patches

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:25:20 +0000

As we approached the launch of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, we started to learn about the level of software support that Google was aiming to provide, likely thanks to using their first processor, Google Tensor. We were pretty sure that their new phones would get at least 5 years of security updates, but there was still confusion around Android OS version updates. Today, with the launch of Pixel 6, we now know specifics. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will receive guaranteed Android version updates until at least 2024 with guaranteed security updates arriving until at least October 2026. So we do indeed have 5 years of security patches, but the OS version updates are staying as they have with older Pixel phones at 3 years.

You have to wonder if that will change as this situation evolves, as Tensor matures, and as Google continues development. But for now, expect 3 OS updates on Pixel 6 and 5 years of security support. // Google

Google Pixel 6 Pre-Orders are Open Right Now!

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:00:38 +0000

Google isn't wasting anytime - pre-orders for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are open right now. If you've seen enough and are ready to spend anywhere from $599 up to $1,099 on these high-end devices, you can do that immediately. While pre-orders are live, devices aren't expected to arrive until October 28. Go, go, go!

Pre-order Google Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h78Q6lQ_gec

Google Pixel 6 Specs: Display, Tensor Processor, RAM, and More

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:00:24 +0000

I am well aware that you know all about the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. You know the price and release date. You know about the colors each phone comes in, if you are buying one, and when pre-orders open. You (hopefully) watched our unboxing to get a feel for each phone side-by-side. You probably know most of the specs too. But sometimes it's nice to have a space dedicated to phone specs, mostly when doing your own research and making those final decisions on important purchases. With starting prices of $599 and $899, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are priced well, yet you still should carefully consider all factors before buying. And again, a simple specs table often helps. So here you go - these are the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro specs in an easy-to-consume table. These are official and accurate.

Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Specs

[table id=214 /]

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Unboxing and First Look!

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:00:15 +0000

Now that you've watched Google fully reveal the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, and after you placed that early pre-order, you are likely looking to settle in and consume more content about each device to help quickly pass the time until your new phone ships. We can help do that with things like this Pixel 6 unboxing! Google provided review units of both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro to us and let us unbox them for you to add to today's fun. So we did just that with a "Kinda Coral" Pixel 6 and a "Stormy Black" Pixel 6 Pro. We don't cover all of the details in this video - we're saving that for our reviews in the coming days - but you do get to see each in hand, a hardware tour, how they compare to each other in size, what the specs differences are, and how much each will cost. It's also just a first look at these devices after months of hype, leaks, and anticipation. Let's unbox the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h78Q6lQ_gec

Everything You Need to Know About 'Pixel Pass'

Tim — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:00:12 +0000

Google's new Pixel Pass subscription is live, allowing Pixel fans to get a new Pixel phone and a group of Google services all under the same monthly bill. It exists for the sake of convenience, though, there's plenty to know before you go signing up. Have a look below if you're interested in Pixel Pass.

What is Pixel Pass?

Pixel Pass is a monthly subscription offered by Google that packages a number of items into one single monthly bill for your convenience.

What Do I Get With Pixel Pass?

With Pixel Pass, you get a Pixel phone and an upgrade after two years. With your Pixel phone, you get device protection, 200GB of Google One storage, YouTube Premium, plus Google Play Pass. Expanding on Device Protection, it includes an additional year of coverage for mechanical breakdown (in addition to the one-year manufacturer warranty), and up to two claims of accidental damage coverage for two years. Claim coverage subject to deductible(s).

Where Can I Get Pixel Pass?

Pixel Pass if offered via the Google Store and Google Fi.

How Do I Sign Up for Pixel Pass?

Signing up for Pixel Pass requires you to apply for a credit application via Synchrony Bank.

How Much is Pixel Pass?

Subscription prices start at $45/month for a Pixel 6 and $55/month for a Pixel 6 Pro. Do note that device upgrades may change the monthly price and your initial price is not locked in or guaranteed over the life of the Pixel Pass. Additionally, if you cancel during the 24-month cycle, you will be required to pay the remaining value of your Pixel device at a non-discounted price, and your access to bundled services will terminate.

Should You Subscribe to Pixel Pass?

This isn't a yes/no question. If you find it more convenient to have all of your favorite Google services and your actual device tied to the same monthly bill, then by all means. However, many people may not want to apply for a credit application and may also not want to be tied to the same phone for two years. For others, that won't be an issue. It will depend on your own personal situation.

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are Official: All the Details You Need to Know

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:00:01 +0000

Google has now announced all of the details for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, its two most important phones to date, both of which offer a lot of phone for prices well under competitors. Let's run through all you need to know in case you've been putting off on buying a new phone until Google held its annual Pixel event.

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro prices and release date

Assuming you have been following the leaks, these are two of the last pieces of info you needed confirmation on and we have them for you today. The Pixel 6 starts at $599 and the Pixel 6 Pro starts at $899. For those base prices, you get 128GB of storage, but the Pixel 6 can be upgraded to 256GB and the Pixel 6 Pro can go to 256GB and then 512GB. The full breakdown of prices, storage options and 5G type is as follows:

Pixel 6 (5G sub-6 only)
- 128GB - $599
- 256GB - $699
Pixel 6 (5G mmWave)
- 128GB - $699
- 256GB - $799
Pixel 6 Pro (5G sub-6 + mmWave)
- 128GB - $899
- 256GB - $999
- 512GB - $1,099

Both phones are up for pre-order starting today, October 19. The first round of shipments should arrive by launch day, which is October 28. The Pixel 6 comes in Sorta Seafoam, Kinda Coral, and Stormy Black. The Pixel 6 Pro comes in Stormy Black, Cloudy White, and Sorta Sunny.

WATCH: Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro unboxing!

The rest of the Pixel 6 story

OK, if you are still reading, that means you want to know more and didn't follow every little leak down to the type of fingerprint reader used, so let's talk about Google and its new Pixel 6 phones. We have a Pixel 6 running Google's Tensor chip, a 6.4" FHD OLED display (90Hz), 8GB LPDDR5 RAM, 128GB or 256GB UFS 3.1 storage, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, 4614mAh battery, 30W wired charging, fast wireless charging, 8MP selfie camera, the Titan M2 security chip, stereo speakers, in-display fingerprint sensor, USB-C (USB 3.1) port, IP68 water and dust resistance, and support for all of the US 5G bands, including 5G mmW in some models. Then we have a Pixel 6 Pro running that same Google Tensor chip and with most of the rest of the Pixel 6's specs. There are several upgrades, though, including a 6.7" QHD curved OLED display (120Hz, LTPO), 12GB LPDDR5 RAM, 128GB/256GB/512GB UFS 3.1 storage, 5003mAh battery, 11MP selfie camera, and a UWB chip. There are some differences in the cameras too. While both have main 50MP wide angle and 12MP ultra-wide angle lenses, the Pixel 6 Pro also has a 48MP telephoto lens. The 50MP camera sports a f/1.85 aperture (it's a 1/1.3 inch sensor), 82-degree field of view, and can Super Res Zoom on the Pixel 6 up to 7x. The ultra-wide camera shoots at f/2.2 and with a 114-degree field of view. On the Pixel 6 Pro, the 48MP telephoto camera shoots at f/2.2 with a 23.5-degree field of view and has 4x optical and 20x digital zoom capabilities. We have optical and electronic stabilization, LDAF (laser detect auto focus), a spectral and flicker sensor, 4K video at up to 60fps, slow motion at up to 240fps, stereo recording, speech enhancement in video, 4K Cinematic Pan stabilization, and a whole bunch of special camera modes and features. Google is finally releasing its Magic Eraser in Google Photos, a Face Unblur tool, Real Tone for pictures of people, and a Motion mode on the Pixel 6 line-up. As for software, the Pixel 6 phones run Android 12, so that means you get the Material You theming across the system, system-level searching of the phone, more powerful Google Assistant voice typing, Live Translate in Messages, from media, and through the camera, quick phrases that let you control some activities (calls, alarms, and timers) without saying "Hey Google," and a revamped At a Glance widget, with more information than ever. As for other noteworthy bits, here's a short list:

Google Tensor is said to provide 80% faster performance over the Pixel 5. (More on Tensor later today.)
These phones should be the most secure of any Pixel, thanks to the new Titan M2 security chip and the Security hub that lets you know if how you can improve the security of your phone and Google accounts.
The main 50MP camera on each phone can capture 150% more light, which is the most ever in a Pixel phone.
The Pixel 6 Pro has Gorilla Glass Victus protecting both its front and rear glass panels, while the Pixel 6 has Victus up front with Gorilla Glass 6 on the back.
The Pixel 6 phones will receive 5 years of security updates.
Google is indeed launching a Pixel Pass that will couple together a new Pixel phone with upgrades after two years, 200GB Google One plan, YouTube Premium, and Google Play Pass, all for a "low monthly price." The Pixel Pass will be sold through Google Fi and the Google Store and starts at $45/mo for the Pixel 6 and $55/mo for the Pixel 6 Pro.

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Specs

[table id=214 /] Again, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are up for pre-order today. Since we have both phones, stay tuned for so much more, including our unboxing right here!

Pre-order Google's new Pixel 6 phones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h78Q6lQ_gec

Watch Google Announce the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Right Here

Tim — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:55:01 +0000

Today's the day, after weeks and months of leaks, that Google will fully unveil the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. If you haven't been following because you love surprises, we essentially know everything about these devices. We know what they look like, we know the majority of specs, and we think we may even know the pricing. There isn't much for Google to announce, but dammit, it's still fun. The event kicks off at 10am Pacific, hosted on Google's own site, as well as YouTube. We'll be watching right alongside all of you, hoping to maybe catch a few unforeseen announcements. Maybe we get a foldable Pixel tease? Pixel Watch tease? Unlikely, but you never know. Are you ready? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNarpiGz3Kk&ab_channel=MadebyGoogle

Android 12's New Material You Weather Widgets are Here

Kellen — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 07:11:49 +0000

From at least Google I/O, Google has been teasing new Material You themed weather widgets on the home screens of its Android 12 mock-ups. With each beta update, we looked to see if they had finally arrived only to find disappointment. And then last night, a Google app update arrived and sure enough, the widgets were a part of it. As of today, there are two weather widgets you can choose from, one with a square or squircle shape and another that looks like an off axis oblong pill. The squircle shows your location, current temperature, and highs/lows for the day, as well as an image to describe the current weather. The angled pill only shows you current temperature and state. Both showed up for me on a Pixel 5 with a Google (beta) app update to version 12.41.14.29. To grab the update, you'll need to enroll in the Google app's beta program, which you do from the Google app's Play Store listing. Once you've done that, you'll start checking for an update. I'd imagine this one is slowly rolling out, because that's how Google (unfortunately) does everything. Google Play Link: Google

TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra Review: Anotha One

Kellen — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 11:20:34 +0000

The world of Wear OS is in such an awkward state, all because of Samsung's Galaxy Watch 4 and the fact that it's the only watch line allowed to run Wear OS 3. Google gave Samsung an exclusive on it (at least we're going with that until they say otherwise), which means that all other watchmakers who want to release watches over the next year can only do so with the older Wear OS 2. That has left us with launches like the Fossil Gen 6 and now the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra, both of which are fully capable watches that would at any other time be the talk of the town, yet are only talked about with an asterisk because of their older software. It's unfortunate, because this new TicWatch is quite good and should probably be on your shortlist of watches to consider. Will it be? Let's talk about that in our TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra review.

What do I like about the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra?

Hardware and design. Last year's TicWatch Pro 3 felt like a "pro" watch and that continues here with the Pro 3 Ultra. Mobvoi put together a case made of stainless steel and "high-strength nylon with fiberglass" to give it toughness and a premium feel. Unlike their recently launched TicWatch E3, which felt quite cheap and gross on the wrist, the Pro 3 Ultra is not going to be mistaken for anything but a high-end smartwatch. It's a familiar design, with two pushers and a subtle change to the bezel that help differentiate it from the regular Pro 3. It is large as hell (47mm x 48mm), and won't fit on smaller wrists, but something about how it sits on my 6 3/4" wrist doesn't offend me. I've worn the Ultra for 6 days now and while I haven't ignored the size, it hasn't bothered me. The weight, at 41g, is on the higher end as well, but again, it's not so heavy that it'll impact your mobility or anything. The pushers have a purposeful click to them without any wiggle or cheapness. There are not rotating crowns or buttons, though, so it does feel a step behind others in that regard. The 22mm included band is quite thick and the holes are spaced out a bit much for that precise fit you might want, but it's a well-made rubber strap. You could really put this through it all and I'd imagine this band will hold up to some abuse. Of course, you can quick swap it with any other 22mm band you may prefer. I just point out the niceness of it because rarely do we get a quality included band like this one. It's one of the first in a while I haven't immediately swapped. Overall, the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra looks like a big ass, premium smartwatch that can take on an adventure, yet dress up if you need it to. And yeah, I've worn it for workouts and on the daily with normal clothes and it wears just fine. I'd imagine if you are considering it, you understand how big it is and are OK with that. Specs. Mobvoi swung for the fences with specs on this watch and gave us a large 1.4" AMOLED + FSTN display (454x454, 326ppi), Snapdragon Wear 4100 chipset with a dual processor system made by Mobvoi, 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, GPS, NFC, Gorilla Glass, speaker, microphone, barometer, IP68 water and dust resistance, heartrate sensor, SpO2 sensor, and a massive 577mAh battery. I'm not sure they left anything out other than a better/faster charging solution. More on that in a minute.

Performance. As I just mentioned above, the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra runs the Snapdragon Wear 4100 with some sort of Mobvoi-made dual processor system. They haven't given any details on what that means, but they claim it should improve performance over last year's Pro 3 (review) by 40% and extend battery life. I wish they would tell us more, but what I can tell you is that this watch performs solidly. After initial setup, I have zero complaints about opening apps, installing updates, jumping between notifications and ongoing activities, using GPS, activating gestures, etc. This watch is certainly taking advantage of whatever system Mobvoi has cooked up to give an experience that is unlike any previous Wear OS watches from the company. Again, it's a 4100, which we know is capable, plus some proprietary thing that (combined with 1GB RAM) are miles ahead of all those old, sh*tty Snapdragon Wear 2100 and 3100 watches. Is it faster or better than the regular Pro 3? Tough to say - I just know that the watch is a pleasure to use. Battery life. Mobvoi once again tossed a 577mAh battery into a watch and it has once again made me wish everyone would follow their lead. A 577mAh battery is big enough that it'll get you through two days with pretty heavy use. That's what I'm seeing and I have not tried to save any battery by limiting settings. My setup has been with the FSTN off, always-on display on, and all of the health tracking activated, like continuous heartrate monitoring, sleep tracking, SpO2 tracking, and their new mental fatigue/energy level measuring feature. It's all on, plus I turned off FSTN, because I don't like it. Why FSTN off? For those not familiar, the FSTN display on Mobvoi's Pro watches is this grey, low-powered e-paper-like display that can show you limited amounts of info while really saving on battery life over top of the AMOLED panel. I turn it off because I think it's ugly, doesn't give me enough info, and the hand-off from it to the full color display with a wrist gesture or tap isn't fast enough. With this watch, Mobvoi says they've also added the ability for you to change the color of it from grey to several other options, but I couldn't find that setting and am completely over it. So that's FSTN and why I turn it off on all their watches. Back to battery. I've been wearing the Pro 3 Ultra for almost 6 full days and I've charged it twice. That's pretty good! The first charge lasted a full 48 hours (4% battery remaining) and included sleep tracking, always-on display, and an hour of workout tracking. The 2nd charge sat at 22% after 36 hours or so with 30 minutes of workouts, a 60 minute GPS run, sleep tracking, and AOD. The 3rd charge was a little more limited in my wearing, but I did take it on another 60 minute GPS run and wore it to sleep, and it's at around 50% charge remaining after 24 hours. If you were to use the FSTN display, turn off a couple of fitness features, and not use the GPS every day, I could see this watch coming close to the suggested 72 hours of use. This battery is so big. Unfortunately, the charging here is slow because the battery is as large as it is. I plugged it into a computer and then to a power adapter to charge and it took almost 2 hours. It also uses Mobvoi's annoying little magnetic mini charger that easily pops off with a nudge. Mobvoi might be putting big batteries in their Pro watches, but I'd love to see them improve the charging situation.

A fitness focus. My understanding is that Mobvoi really wants this watch positioned alongside other adventure watches, like a Garmin Fenix or Polar Grit X, and I guess you could put it there. It (obviously) is more smartwatch than adventure watch, but the toughness and fitness features, as well as long battery life, put it in the conversation. Mobvoi really wants to be known as a fitness wearable company. They've put a lot of work into the Mobvoi app to give you a complete health and fitness profile, they've upgraded the sensors that track biometrics, and they'll track all the workouts. Unlike with the TicWatch E3, I actually gave my fitness life over to Mobvoi for this review and now think it could be a solid platform for most people. It will fully breakdown your sleep and the stages you were in before giving you a score the following morning. It has GPS, which I found to be mostly accurate, just not quite as precise as those watches I just named above. It'll track your 24-7 heartrate (it's much better than the Galaxy Watch 4's, especially during workouts) and warn you if things look off, keep a running SpO2 score, remind you to move throughout the day, and (now) try to tell you if you are mentally fatigued and how your energy level is. It really does track everything if you need a wearable that'll provide a full profile of your fitness. Do I fully trust and believe all of the metrics? I'm still trying to find an answer to that. The problem is that companies like Garmin or Polar or Suunto or Fitbit have years and years of dedication to providing accurate info about your health and I do trust them. They gained it. Mobvoi is still pretty new and they are trying to do so much, that I'm (personally) still feeling them out. That said, I think they offer a complete suite that those looking for a wearable to do it all will find helpful.

What don’t I like about it?

Software situation. I just reviewed the TicWatch E3 and talked about this exact point. I highly encourage you to go read my thoughts there because they are identical to what I'd type here. I promise I'm not being lazy in not wanting to type them out again, but it's going to be the same story for all Wear OS 2 watches until next year when they can finally get Wear OS 3. To recap, this TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra runs Wear OS 2. It runs it just fine. The software and performance are great, but we all know that Samsung has watches running Wear OS 3 and that Google and app developers are going to focus their efforts on what's new. We've already seen companies like Strava say they will no longer support Wear OS 2 going forward and are instead putting their development time towards Wear OS 3. That could only get worse over the next year and that's unfortunate for anyone not interested in a Samsung watch. The name. The full name is TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS and that's just silly. Mobvoi should have tossed on Max 5G Plus as well to really round things out. I'm kidding, of course, but the name is still silly, although not in a way that should affect your purchase decision.

Buy or pass on the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra?

At $299, the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra is not an in-expensive watch, that's for sure. However, it ticks almost all of the boxes, even if it is on the bigger side and won't run Wear OS 3 for some time. It has incredible battery life, all of the fitness tracking you could ask for, and looks quite nice in this updated case design. I'm a big fan and would probably still consider this watch, even over Samsung's, if I was in the market. It's a better fitness watch than the Galaxy Watch 4.

Shop TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra deals from Amazon

Google Pixel Now the Official 'Fan Phone' of the NBA

Tim — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 10:51:01 +0000

Google announced this week that it is partnering with the NBA to make Pixel the official 'fan phone' of the league, which includes not just the actual NBA, but the G League and 2K League as well. Furthermore, Google is becoming the league’s official Search Engine, Search Trends, and Fan Insights Partner, while it is also being detailed that Pixel will be a presenting partner of the NBA Playoffs and NBA Finals presenting sponsor, in the postseason. Basically, if you watch the NBA this season, you're probably going to see a lot of Pixel phones and Google plugs.

Through this multi-year partnership, we’ll work with the NBA to create exciting immersive experiences for fans using our 3D and AR technology, as well as leverage new features that will be announced at our Pixel Fall Launch event. And we’ll continue to provide experiences and information in all the places fans turn to every day, whether that’s Pixel to take pictures of your favorite team in action, Search to check scores and schedules, Google Shopping to find your favorite player’s jersey, or Maps to get to the arena using the most sustainable route.

Looks like we'll be learning more about this tomorrow during the Pixel press event. That's exciting. We'll keep you posted. // Google

DEAL: Galaxy Watch 4 on Sale Again, Starts at Only $219

Tim — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 08:51:32 +0000

Still early in their lives, the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are no strangers to being on sale. As consumers, that's not a bad thing at all, as these Samsung wearables are still the only way to experience the updated Wear OS platform. Plus, they're pretty good watches.

Reviews: Watch 4 | Watch 4 Classic

On sale right now via Amazon and Samsung's own site, you can snag the Galaxy Watch 4 model at $30 off of the usual price, brining the cost down to as low as $219 for the 40mm size. For the 44mm variant, the price is $249, down from $279. We've been saying that that's a helluva deal for this device. At $219, you're getting a smartwatch with great Android integration, excellent app access, plenty of health-focused bells and whistles, plus a really nice display. If you still need to pick one up, follow the links below. Samsung still has a great trade-in offer going, too.

Buy Galaxy Watch 4

What the Hell are These Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Prices at Target?

Kellen — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 07:48:55 +0000

Google is going to fully announce the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro tomorrow, so the leaks at this point are all really hard to care about. But one of the few remaining mysteries has involved pricing, because well, we just have no idea how much Google plans to charge for their most important phones ever in the US. According to the shelves of a Target store that started labeling items before they were supposed to, Google is preparing to do something wild. Like, these prices cannot be real, right? Oh, you want me to tell you what Target says, that's right. $599 for the Pixel 6. $898 for the Pixel 6 Pro. The numbers come from Twitter user @EvanLei1, who says he walked into a Target, saw the markings on the shelves, and snapped the picture below. He claims to have asked staff, who confirmed that the prices are correct.

To be clear, we have no idea if these actually are the real prices. They seem so absurdly low, that I'm having a hard time fully believing them. I want to! I hope they are real, so that we can all buy Pixel phones and be happy...but wow. At $599, the Pixel 6 would be priced at $100 cheaper than the Pixel 5 (review). And let's be honest, the Pixel 5 was overpriced, but this new Pixel 6 is also a far superior phone that has no business being priced in what is now a mid-tier budget realm. As for the Pixel 6 Pro, $898 seems like an incredible price for what you are getting. This would be the 128GB model, which could mean another $100 for the 256GB model - still! The Pixel 6 Pro is basically supposed to be competing with the Galaxy S21 Ultra ($1,200), OnePlus 9 Pro ($1,069), and Apple's iPhone Max Pro ($1,099), yet even if you max one out, it should be cheaper than all three. That would be a heck of a move if Google were to pull that off. Whatever happened to the Pixel 6 Pro being "expensive"? Not that $900 isn't expensive, I just think we expected well north of $1,000 for a base model.

These New Pixel 6 Pictures Should Help You Decide Which to Buy

Kellen — Sat, 16 Oct 2021 09:12:08 +0000

Seeing renders of a new phone is fun and all, but getting a look at the "lifestyle" shots from companies that show a device in the hand of a person, even if in a staged professional setting, is always the best way to get a virtual feel for it. We've got that now with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro in high resolution photos that should help you decide next week, which color and model you'll want to buy. Thanks to a spread of photos posted by @evleaks, we can see both Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro in several settings, where the phones might be in the hands of a person, yet they also manage to be the star of the show. Google is clearly giving the Pixel 6 Pro a professional identity, while the Pixel 6 is possibly being targeted more at those who want to play a bit.

Pixel 6 Pro Colors (Stormy Black, Sorta Sunny, Cloudy White)

In these first three shots (including that one up top), I cropped them all to really give you a look at the phones vs. the entire surrounding space. Google matched up the scenes to the color of each phone, which is cool and all, but I wanted you to get more phone than background. I'd say these images aren't hiding the fact that the Pixel 6 Pro, whether being used for a work call, in a studio, or while traveling, is a large phone. We know it has a 6.7" display and is going to be a lot to handle, but the premium design, extra camera, and high refresh rate display will be tough to ignore, even if it is as big as we think it is.

Pixel 6 Colors (Kinda Coral, Stormy Black, Sorta Seafoam)

And now the Pixel 6! In these shots, we have a similar setup, with Google matching the phone color to the scene, although the images are a little less professional and lean more towards the active human. These shots go from someone at what appears to be a party to someone finishing a track workout and another out for a hike. We aren't so sure that the Pixel 6 is going to be that much more durable than the Pixel 6 Pro, we just know it'll be slightly smaller and lack a couple of the Pro's high-end features. But yeah, I guess it could be better at being on-the-go with a 6.4" display. That doesn't matter - what does matter is the color, those beautiful black sides, and a price tag we hope will be hundreds less.

Pixel 6 Pro Case

And finally, here's the Pixel 6 Pro and a case (also via @evleaks), so you can see exactly how that'll look and work. That massive camera bar was always going to be awkward, yet this case lets you know how it'll protect it without completely messing up this weird, weird design.

Alright, which one you buying?

I Really Want Google to Make This Android 12 Battery Widget

Kellen — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 14:21:17 +0000

Yes, the image above is of an iPhone. Ignore that part of it. What I want you to look at is that sweet battery widget that iOS has, which shows the battery percentage of each device you have connected over Bluetooth. It's freakin' awesome and is one of those that I wish I already had on my Pixel 5. If Google's teases are anything to go buy, they may give us a similarly awesome widget very soon. From at least May, Google has been teasing a battery widget for Android 12 that's made from the Material You cloth and shows at least 4 devices and their current battery status. I've cropped the image they keep using below to focus just on this widget, showing a Pixel phone and Pixel Buds attached, along with a random "smart watch" and other over-ear headphones, because people definitely connect earbuds and headphones at the same time. Weird mock-up aside, we need this! Make this, Google! Apple has 3 versions of this widget! Don't just tease it like you did that Material Design music app, and then never release it.

To be clear, because Google keeps showing it off, I'd imagine it'll show up with stable Android 12 towards the end of the month and with the Pixel 6 launch. Most of the widgets Google has been teasing for Android 12 are either already here or are expected, like the clocks, Google Keep, and Google Photos. The new weather widgets are also expected with the Pixel 6, if anything. Google is very much taking widgets and Material You seriously for now. But here's the thing - make this an interactive widget too, Google! Apple's is just a basic widget that shows your connected devices and their battery percentage. Make it tappable! Let me get into Pixel Buds settings if I tap on that part of the widget or open the Wear OS app if I tap the smartwatch section or the battery settings of the phone if I tap there. PLEASSSSSSSE. Oh, you want to know why I care so much about a widget that shows battery life of several smart devices I have connected? Because I'm a scarred human. I've lived through phones with dead-by-noon battery life. I've lived with smartwatches that won't get you through dinner. I will forever worry about battery life and would love to have easy access to a visual that gives me peace of mind.

Pixel Sounds Update Brings New Design, Lovely New Tones

Kellen — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 12:06:58 +0000

Google started pushing out an update to its "Sounds" app for Pixel phones today that not only brings a refreshed UI, it adds a new category of sounds called "Material Adventures." The new sounds are absolutely lovely. If you open Google Play at the moment, or hit that link below, you should find an update to Sounds. This doesn't appear to be a slow rollout, as I never get those and was able to update right away. Once you have the update, head into Settings>Sound & Vibration. From there, tapping on "Phone ringtone" or any of the notification or alarm sound settings should bring up a UI like you are seeing at the top of this post. It's very much a Material You look that'll fit nicely in with Android 12. We have rounded corners in the swatches, color matching from the system, and that font that Google sure is fond of. As far as I can tell, the big new addition is that Material Adventures section, which I'm not sure I can properly describe, but they are all very airy yet modern with their vibes. "Aqueous" is particularly great if you need a vibe check on a Friday. Grab that update and let us know what you like so far! Google Play Link: Google Sounds

Report: Nothing is Working on a Phone, Launch Expected Early Next Year

Tim — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 09:03:21 +0000

Carl Pei's Nothing is reported to be working on a smartphone, taking a big leap after its release of a single pair of earbuds. If this news surprises you, earlier this week, the company announced it raised $50 million in funding, plus a new partnership with Qualcomm to help power its "tech ecosystem." Keep in mind, Nothing also acquired Andy Rubin's Essential company and all of its IP, so Nothing has a bit of a head start if it's looking to make a phone. Still, a challenging process regardless of the resources you have at your disposal, making a smartphone is. The report comes from 91mobiles, who details that the phone should launch relatively soon, as in early 2022. In fact, we could even start seeing teasers for the device in the next few weeks. This aligns with what we saw from Nothing when it came to their overhyped earbuds. We would think that Nothing wants to use a phone to be a vehicle to deliver some other type of service. While we're not opposed to having another phone on the market to play with, we're at a loss for why Nothing wants to compete in this market so quickly. Companies with billions of dollars struggle to create good products that people buy, so Nothing essentially needs a winner right out of the gate. If it's a rebranded Essential Phone 2 with upgraded camera system and transparent hardware (like the Nothing earbuds had), then you may have our attention. It's reported that Nothing is also working on a battery bank that may launch before the phone.

WhatsApp Adds End-to-End Encryption for Backups

Kellen — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 13:14:36 +0000

WhatsApp has had end-to-end encryption for all of the messages you send for a solid 5 years now, as long as those messages are only stored on your device. For those who want backups of those chats to store on Google Drive or iCloud, that same encryption hasn't been there, well, until now. Facebook and WhatsApp announced today that end-to-end encryption is now available as "an extra, optional layer of security to protect backups stored on Google Drive or iCloud." Apparently, no other global messaging service "at this scale" provides this level of security, so that's neat. These backups can be encrypted with a password of your choice or a 64-digit encryption key and WhatsApp is saying that neither them nor your backup service can read those backups. I'd certainly hope not. To get setup in WhatsApp with encrypted backups, you'll head into Settings>Chats>Chat Backup>End-to-end Encrypted Backup. After that last step, you'll follow prompts to create a password or key and then tap "Done." WhatsApp should then prepare your backup with encryption. Don't lose those passwords.

Qualcomm Clearly Mad About Google Tensor, Tries to Meme

Tim — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 12:51:03 +0000

If you're on Twitter, you've likely seen the latest trend that has a statement or quote followed by a ton of red flag emoji. It's basically a warning sign meme, and of course, companies are trying to get on it for social media currency in the form of likes and retweets. This week, Qualcomm's official Snapdragon account decided it'd be funny to take indirect aim at Google and its upcoming in-house Tensor chip. Totally petty and uncalled for? Absolutely. In the tweet, Qualcomm uses the quote "We've decided to make our own smartphone SoC instead of using Snapdragon," followed by a healthy amount of red flags. With this, they're implying you should stick clear of Google and Tensor, as to them there's no way it compares to what's offered by Qualcomm. It's certainly a valiant attempt, but what the heck, I didn't think we'd see open beef between Qualcomm and Google take place on Twitter. Honestly? I'm here for it. Qualcomm's attempt to meme below. https://twitter.com/Snapdragon/status/1448317606365179906 The issue we have, Google fanboy stance aside, is that it is known that one of the main issues with Android is caused directly by Qualcomm. I'm referring to Android updates. Due to Qualcomm and the way it handles support for its processors, companies are essentially incapable of offering long-time update support to their devices. This leads to people having to upgrade their phones more frequently or simply not get important software updates, a far removal from the experience Apple product owners have. As was recently detailed with the move to its in-house Tensor chip, Google will be delivering 5 years of updates to the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, which is unheard of in the Android world. It's a big step in the right direction, and if Qualcomm wants to make fun of that, then screw 'em. Google has a real opportunity to take a bite out of Qualcomm's monopoly here, so whether you're a fan of Google's phones or not, this is a win for the consumer. That's what is most important to us. The replies to the tweet are mostly great, too. Clearly, some people have their eyes open. https://twitter.com/AkataKuro/status/1448491635260551175 https://twitter.com/anupam149/status/1448669297564209158 https://twitter.com/Darnell07191988/status/1448619212826624000

Android 12 Will be One of the Pixel 6's Biggest Selling Points

Kellen — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 11:14:55 +0000

Google Search Results on Mobile Will Now Keep Going... and Going... and Going

Tim — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 09:42:12 +0000

Google detailed this morning that mobile Search users will now have their results feature continuous scrolling. This means no more page numbers at the bottom of the results. Instead, the results page will now simply keep going and going until there are no more results. Google says that, "While you can often find what you're looking for in the first few results, sometimes you want to keep looking. In fact, most people who want additional information tend to browse up to four pages of search results. With this update, people can now seamlessly do this, browsing through many different results, before needing to click the 'See more' button." You'll begin to see this change starting today in the US. // Google

Samsung October Updates: Galaxy S21, S20, Note 20, and Tab S7 Have Been Blessed

Kellen — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 09:37:41 +0000

The wave of October Android updates has hit Samsung's best devices this week, with the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S20, and Galaxy Note 20 lines all seeing some action. The update isn't big, since we're all really just waiting for Android 12 and One UI 4, but we'll never say "no" to another monthly patch. The Galaxy Tab S7 line is also receiving an update, although a very different one. For all of the phones receiving this update from Verizon, the listings all say "the current software update provides the most up to date Android security patches on your device" and nothing more. No performance boosts. No camera feature changes. No random, unspecified improvements. This is a security update while Samsung polishes the big update we could see before the end of the year on all of these devices. For the Galaxy Tab S7 and Tab S7+, Verizon is at least saying that the update "improves the performance of your device." The update only jumps each tablet up to the May 2021 security patch, though, which is kind of odd. Tablets just don't see the same type of support as phones, unfortunately. So, we have updated builds listed for you below

Galaxy Note 20: RP1A.200720.012.N981USQS2DUIB
Galaxy Note 20 Ultra: 200720.012.N986USQS2DUIB
Galaxy S21: RP1A.200720.012.G991USQS4AUIN
Galaxy S21+: RP1A.200720.012.G996USQS4AUIN
Galaxy S21 Ultra: RP1A.200720.012.G998USQS4AUIN
Galaxy S20: RP1A.200720.012.G981VSQS2DUI5
Galaxy S20+: RP1A.200720.012.G986USQS2DUI5
Galaxy S20 Ultra: RP1A.200720.012.G988USQS2DUI5
Galaxy Tab S7: RP1A.200720.012.T878USQU2BUI2
Galaxy Tab S7+: RP1A.200720.012.T978USQU2BUI2

To grab these new updates, all of which are rolling out now, you'll head into Settings>System updates>Check for system updates.

Verizon 5G Upload Speeds Hit New Highs in Latest Lab Trials

Tim — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 08:53:09 +0000

Verizon announced this week that during lab trials while testing the latest and greatest 5G mmWave technology in partnership with Samsung and Qualcomm, it reached wireless upload speeds of 711 Mbps. While download speeds have exceeded this number for some time, Verizon says that this 711 number, "is the fastest speed the companies have been able to reach while uploading data to the network." To get an idea of how fast that is, the carrier says that it's equivalent to uploading a 1GB movie in about 10 seconds. For you cellular technology folk, Verizon detailed the trial, just so you can know exactly how this number was reached. I'll allow them to explain.

The demonstration surpassed current peak upload speeds by combining 400 MHz of Verizon’s 5G mmWave frequency and 20 MHz of 4G frequency using the latest 5G technologies, including mmWave carrier aggregation and Single-User MIMO (SU-MIMO). Network technology used in the demo included Samsung’s 28 GHz 5G Compact Macro and virtualized RAN (vRAN) and Core (vCore) along with a smartphone form-factor test device powered by the flagship Snapdragon X65 5G Modem-RF System. Snapdragon X65 is Qualcomm Technologies’ 4th generation 5G mmWave Modem-RF System for phones, mobile broadband, compute, XR, industrial IoT, 5G private networks and fixed wireless access. Commercial mobile devices based on these Modem-RF solutions are expected to launch by late 2021.

While very exciting, I don't have personal reason to celebrate, as my poor little town in Oregon won't see a mmWave-equipped tower for what I assume to be years. However, if you're one of the lucky ones, prepare to be uploading like a freakin' fiend in the months and years to come. I feel like a marketing opportunity with 7/11 has been missed, but whatever. Bring on the speed! // Verizon

A Bunch of Verizon's Visible Customers had Their Accounts Messed With

Kellen — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 11:34:11 +0000

Customers on the Visible prepaid service that's powered by Verizon are having a very frustrating week. At least 3 days ago, reports on reddit surfaced from customers claiming to have had their accounts hacked, with email, password, and addresses being changed before orders for things like new phones were placed. It's hard to grasp just how many customers are claiming to have been affected by this situation, but if you checkout reddit threads here, here, here, and here, you can see that this is more than a couple of people dealing with account breaches. This appears to have been going on for several days, with Visible even having to shutdown security features, like the ability to change passwords, according to some threads. Visible has already said this was not a security breach from their end.

Our investigation indicates that threat actors were able to access username/passwords from outside sources, and exploit that information to login to Visible accounts.
— Visible (@Visible) October 13, 2021

In a couple of Tweets, Visible has suggested that they are aware of accounts being accessed without authorization and that they "deployed tools to mitigate the issue." However, they are claiming the "threat actors were able to access usernames/passwords from outside sources." In other words, they don't believe the customer info was made available from Visible. It's a weird situation, since they aren't saying what those outside sources are. It's also not a good look that it took Visible 2-3 days to respond to what sure looks like dozens and dozens of accounts being messed with. If you feel your account has been accessed without your authorization, you should probably reach out to Visible as soon as you can. Changing your password (if you can) is probably another good move at this point. We'll update this post if anything else materializes.

Samsung Updates Continuous Heart Rate Graph in Health App, Users Aren't Happy

Tim — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 09:55:18 +0000

Galaxy Watch 4 users are noticing a visualization change after an update to the Samsung Health app. According to upset users, Samsung has removed the Continuous Heart Rate graph that allowed people to look back at exactly what their heart has been up to. In its place, a new graph has been implemented, which may look different, but actually displays data in a way that can be viewed as a bit more helpful. Now, instead of a graph that shows your continuous heart rate number as a line from throughout the day, Samsung groups your average heart rate into set time bars. You can now see highs and lows, which should be a good thing, but some users don't feel this way.

Old Graph vs. New Graph

The other issue for users is that the heart rate monitor itself is not that good. We also said the same thing in our review of the device. However, these same users seem to believe that this change is a way for Samsung to hide the monitor's data recording inconsistencies, by preemptively breaking the continuous monitoring line into separated time bars. It's an interesting theory, but hard to prove. In speaking to a Samsung support chat representative, redditor u/TomaszPNote20U confirmed that this change was indeed Samsung's intention.

Thanks for confirming Tomasz. Just to let you know, we do have an application update on our health app. The Continuous Heart Rate vanishes of Samsung health was a built-in feature of the latest updates of the app. In this case, I regret to inform you that since the update was already installed on your device, then we cannot change it back to a continuous graph.

Naturally, talks of a possible class action lawsuit have already fired up, but that happens anytime a piece of technology doesn't do exactly what was originally expected to do or functionality changes. If we're being technical, the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic can still output a continuous heart rate as marketed. Samsung simply changed how the data is relayed inside of the Samsung Health app, for better or for worse. For some, it could be a dealbreaker issue, but others may not even notice it as the feature is sometimes disabled due to its high battery usage. Do we have any Galaxy Watch 4 owners that are affected by this change? // reddit Cheers Chris!

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Part 2 Happens October 20!

Tim — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 08:21:08 +0000

Invitations are headed out for Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked Part 2, set to take place October 20 at 10AM ET. According to the video's description that the company posted to its YouTube account, "Join Part 2 on October 20 to see how Samsung is opening up new experiences for self-expression through technology." In the video, we see apps and services get sucked together to form cubes, then they roll away as if on a conveyor belt. It's a neat graphic, but makes little sense to my early-morning brain. We don't have specifics for what Samsung is announcing, but Samsung fans seem to think it's Galaxy S21 FE and One UI 4 related. I don't believe that to be accurate at all. That means we'd be one week away and there's been hardly any movement on the S21 FE front since we last heard in September that the device's launch was in serious jeopardy. Plus, Samsung is selling its new foldables like crazy, so from a business standpoint, they may be sticking with its winners instead of diverting resources (the Snapdragon 888 chipset) to a new and unproven device. This teaser appears to be way more software related to me, which could also be why we're not seeing any leaks. Software would require less third parties for Samsung, meaning less chances to spring a leak in the pipeline. Regardless of what it is, we'll see it in one week. https://youtu.be/3qe5-6bhMgc

Mobvoi's TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra is Here With Solid Upgrades

Kellen — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 06:00:29 +0000

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra is now official and is without a doubt the most impressive (on paper) from Mobvoi to date. After finding success with last year's TicWatch Pro 3 and the Snapdragon Wear 4100, this new Ultra model has several key upgrades that'll make it an addition to the short list of Wear OS watches to consider buying. Let's run through the biggest changes. For displays, the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra features a 1.4" AMOLED display (454x454, 326ppi) with FSTN secondary display on top. That combo has been a staple of the Pro line and gets a big improvement here. Mobvoi says that the FSTN display is now fully customizable with 18 different color options, which I believe just means you can change its background color. Previously, Mobvoi offered few options for their FSTN displays and they mostly showed a bare minimum amount of info in a black-grey style. The next big change is Mobvoi's use of the Snapdragon Wear 4100 platform, but this time they claim to have added Mobvoi's "dual processor system" with it, improving the performance over the TicWatch Pro 3 by some 40%. They haven't given us any deep details on what this "dual processor system" is, but the claims here are that it improves app loading time, brings "a smoother operating experience," and should help increase battery life. NOTE: The original post said Snapdragon Wear 4100+ because that's what the official specs sheets said that Mobvoi sent us. They have since clarified that it is indeed the 4100. The third improvement is in durability, where Mobvoi has built the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra using US Military Standard 810G (MIL-STD-810G) materials, "allowing it to withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, solar radiation, shock, [and] low pressure." It has IP68 water and dust resistance as well. While some of that sounds like standard smartwatch talk, Mobvoi appears to be positioning this watch as one you'd take on outdoor adventures and deliver a beating to.

As for the rest of the specs, you've got dimensions of 47x48x12.3mm, 577mAh battery, 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, GPS, Bluetooth 5.0, 802.11n WiFi, NFC, speaker and mic, heartrate sensor, SpO2 sensor, barometer, ~~compass~~, and Gorilla Glass covering, all in a stainless steel case. It runs Wear OS 2 (of course), takes 22mm watch bands, and will be available in both Bluetooth and LTE configurations. NOTE on compass feature: Mobvoi initially launched the TicWatch Pro 13 Ultra with compass functionality, but have since told us that they are removing it in November 2021 "due to compatibility issues." On the health and fitness side of things, the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra not only has all-day heartrate monitoring, it'll check for an irregular heartbeat, and try to assess your level of fatigue and energy using heartrate variability (HRV). There are 20+ workout modes, sleep tracking, and all of the other metrics you'll find on-watch in the TicHealth app and on your phone in the Mobvoi app. We are just opening our review unit, so stay tuned for our initial thoughts before we dive in for a review. If you want to buy a TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra, the Bluetooth version is available today from Amazon and Mobvoi for $299.99. The LTE version will be available in November, but it doesn't look like it'll come to the US.

Shop TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra from Amazon

Why Won't You Buy the Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro?

Kellen — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 13:22:47 +0000

Google has the end of 2021 to itself to showcase new phones, like it usually does, but with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, the situation is much different than we are used to. By now, we've often seen far-too-early reviews of upcoming Pixel phones, know all of the details, and have mostly figured out whether or not we'll buy one. In a typical Pixel year, people would have seen enough from the early leaks or have decided there is something missing from Google's new phones that'll keep them away. These new Pixel 6 phones are bringing a different energy. The excitement and interest has not stopped as more and more info is revealed before Google can make it official. For the first time since the Pixel 2 XL, I'm not sure Google has kept the Android world's attention like this. And that sustained attention brings me to today's question. What would keep you (at this point) from buying a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro? We know about the 5 years of updates they'll get. We know about the big boost in performance from Google's Tensor chip. We know the cameras are getting their first big overhaul in years. We know how great Android 12 is. We know about the new and upgraded Pixel Stand. We know that the specs list matches up to other high-end phones on the market. There may even be a Pixel Pass, to get you all the Google services at a bundled price. There's so much to like and we haven't even held one yet. So what would stop you? Are you mad about the charger situation? Did they run out of Google Original Chips before you could get some? Is the in-display fingerprint reader the end of the world? Are you still just waiting to see pricing? Are these color names not spicy enough? Or, I guess, maybe you are satisfied with your current phone? If you aren't buying a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, what's up?

Watch Samsung's Foldables Get Bent, Dunked, and Poked in Stress Tests

Tim — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 08:29:39 +0000

Samsung released a fun video this week, detailing the process its latest foldable devices go through to ensure they're ready for the mass market. If you're some sorta freak and enjoy watching phones getting tortured, I suppose this video is for you. Buncha weirdos, man, but no judgement from me.

Our Reviews: Galaxy Z Flip 3 | Galaxy Z Fold 3

With the added water resistance to both models and S Pen support for the Galaxy Z Fold 3, there's more than opening and closing the device to test the hinge 200,000 times. We get to see the phones submerged in water, poked with S Pens, and plenty else. It's short and sweet, so check it out below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpWHBvxmDV0

Motorola Edge (2021) Heads to Verizon With Cheaper Price

Kellen — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 08:07:12 +0000

Motorola announced a new Edge phone back in August and I have no idea if anyone bought it. At the time, it was priced pretty well, down to $500. However, the price increased to $700 shortly after and then faded away from our memories. It's returning today because Verizon is now carrying it, only Verizon has slotted it in their phone line-up with a decent $550 price tag. Time to reconsider the Motorola Edge (2021)? This new Motorola Edge phone features features a 6.8″ FHD LCD display with 144Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 778G processor, 5000mAh battery with 30W fast charging, IP52 water resistance, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, bottom-firing speaker, and a triple rear camera. The unlocked model is packed with 256GB of storage and 8GB RAM, but Verizon appears to be selling a version with 128GB, hence the price drop. They haven't specified if we have 6GB or 8GB RAM here. This could be a decent phone if you are on a budget and need a handful of specs that are typically reserved for more expensive devices, like the 144Hz refresh rate in the display and WiFi 6E. That said, Motorola isn't the best at software updates and Google is about to release the Pixel 6 at what is rumored to be only a couple of hundred dollars more. Verizon is selling the new Motorola Edge on October 14 for $550 at full retail or $18.33 per month for 30 months. You should never buy a phone on a 30 month contract if you can help it.

Here are Google's Fun Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Color Names

Kellen — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 12:42:55 +0000

When the original Pixel phone launched, Google kicked off a naming scheme that is without a doubt my favorite in the industry. While Samsung often takes the fancier, more colorful route that includes elements or space terms or rich descriptors, Google decided to go as obviously direct as possible. The original Google Pixel came in Very Silver, Quite Black, and Really Blue, in case you forgot. We've since seen Almost Black, Black & White, Clearly White, and Not Pink, as well. The colors, again, just make sense because they actually describe the color of the phone without going all cosmic or metallic or whatever OnePlus is doing. With the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, it looks like Google will continue with their playfully obvious naming scheme in some ways, while going the Samsung route to complete the line. According to @mabrownjr, who has been quietly sharing a bunch of Pixel 6 bits of info over the past week that went unnoticed until this weekend, we have the following colors:

Pixel 6 colors: Kinda Coral, Sorta Seafoam, Stormy Black
Pixel 6 Pro colors: Sorta Sunny, Cloudy White, Stormy Black

See what I mean about some colors staying very Google-esque (Kinda Coral, Sorta Seafoam) while others have gone to the industry standard style (Stormy Black, Cloud White)? The names are fine, but Partially Black and Mostly White would have been more fitting, in my annoying opinion. Good lord, the leaks just won't stop. *Presses fast forward to October 19*

Here's Everything New in the Upgraded $79 Pixel Stand

Tim — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 09:39:03 +0000

We've known that an upgraded Pixel Stand charger is coming for a bit now, but besides an improved charging speed, we were still curious what else a new charger may offer. Thanks to a new leak, we have our answer. According to newly leaked marketing materials, the upgraded Pixel Stand will indeed offer 23W wireless charging, active cooling versus the original's passive cooling, a dedicated coil for charging wearables (optimized for Pixel Buds), a body comprised of up to 54% post-consumer recycled materials, as well as new software features for when your Pixel is docked on the Stand. As shown in a versus breakdown (1st Gen versus 2nd Gen), the new Pixel Stand is one heck of an upgrade. The new Pixel Stand will also come in two color options, which is a nice touch. Below you can see a few more specs. Come on, Google, give us the goods. We're ready!

// @thisistechtoday

Google TV Gets Profiles for Multiple Users

Kellen — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 09:13:32 +0000

Google TV, the Android TV alternative that powers the cute little Chromecast with Google TV unit, is getting the feature you've been asking for. Google announced today that Google TV profiles are here, giving you and your entire household the personalized content you wanted.

Google TV Profiles!

With profiles on Google TV, Google is giving each person recommendations based on interests and preferences, access to an individual watchlist, and recommendation help from Google Assistant, again, based on your personalized tastes. So going forward, when you fire up that little baby Google TV remote, you'll be able to choose your own account to get to watching. To setup a new profile, you should be able to swipe over to your account icon (top right), and then add another account, just like you would if you were trying to add a kid profile. Google says that profiles are rolling out "soon" to the Chromecast with Google TV and to TVs from Sony and TCL that also run Google TV.

Ambient Mode too!

Profiles aren't all that's new - Google is also adding more info to the ambient mode screen on Google TV. Instead of just seeing your photos as a screensaver, Google is going to show you personalized info and cards. Some of the examples Google gave include the weather, news, the latest game score, and more. As you can see in the image above, it could include a timely photo album or a podcast to fire up too. Ambient mode cards will be available in the US only to start, and yeah, we have no idea when. I'm guessing "soon."

Google TV remote to Google Home app

UPDATE: Google also announced today that the Google TV remote will soon arrive in the Google Home app on Android and iOS. Previously, the new Google TV remote was available within the Google TV app and as a quick settings shortcut. This Google Home integration will make it much more obvious to use and also on even more devices. // Google

'Pixel Pass' Monthly Subscription Gets You Pixel Phone, Fi, and Google Services for Fixed Price

Tim — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 08:52:00 +0000

Details of a new Google offering are hitting the web, with something called Pixel Pass expected to make its debut alongside the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. What is Pixel Pass? It's yet another monthly subscription for your life, one that includes everything you'll need to be a dedicated Pixel lover. According to leaked materials, Pixel Pass is indeed a subscription service, though, its price is currently unknown. With a subscription, you get a Pixel smartphone, premium access to Google services including Google One (storage), Play Pass (apps and games), YouTube Premium, as well as network coverage provided by Google Fi. In addition, Pixel Pass gets you an extended device warranty, so think of it as an all-in-one Pixel experience that's not just the phone, but everything that powers the phone, too. Below, you can view the entire Pixel Pass purchase flow, including the financing aspect. The last piece of info is that you'll be able to sign up for Pixel Pass either through Google Fi or the Google Store. Unfortunately, anyone who will want to sign up for Pixel Pass will need to apply for financing. It makes sense, as the subscription price likely includes the price of a smartphone, but it's entirely possible people won't want to deal with Synchrony. I know I don't, as my experiences with them have never been ideal. What's your take, though? Depending on the price, it would be interesting to have one monthly cost for pretty much everything associated with your mobile life. It's a neat idea, but I'm struggling to come up with a cost that makes it worth it for both the user and Google. We'll see soon enough when these phones are announced next week. // Purposely Pixel

Google's Pixel 6 Phones Will Get 5 Years of Updates

Kellen — Sat, 09 Oct 2021 08:13:13 +0000

We learned a lot of new about the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, thanks to a retailer slip-up that confirmed a majority of the big features Google is likely to talk about on October 19. For those of us who have tracked system and security updates on Android over the years, none are bigger than one that's here thanks to Google's new Tensor processor. According the marketing pages we just got done talking about at length, Google is going to include 5 years of security updates for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Actually, on one page it says fives years, but another says "at least 5 years of updates." Like other Pixel phones, the date of support starts "when the device first became available on the Google Store," so when it launches after October 19, the clock will begin ticking. If we go with 5 years from October or November 2021, that'll mean support for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro could end around October 2026.

The image above doesn't say anything about Android version updates, which is a category of update that Google does track of Pixel phones. If you look at the Pixel Phone Help page for updates, it breaks down support into Android version and security, where both currently match in terms of length for all previous Pixel devices. These listings only mention security, so it could be that Google will provide 5 years of security updates and fewer version updates. I guess that's at least one mystery left to solve. Either way, 5 years of security patches puts Google with Samsung, the current king of Android updates that does a full 4 years of security updates for consumer devices and up to 5 years for enterprise devices. Ahh yes, the beauty of making your own chip that runs in your own phone.

The Massive Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Retail Feature Leak is Here

Kellen — Sat, 09 Oct 2021 07:53:21 +0000

Thanks to a retailer giving up the goods earlier than I can imagine Google was hoping for, several details of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro have now been confirmed. While we aren't talking about a precise specs list, we certainly know several of the standout features that will be talked about on October 19, when the phones are officially revealed. The now-in-trouble retailer is Carphone Warehouse, who appears to have posted entire marketing pages for both phones (Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro), that @evleaks shared with the world on Twitter. The listings are still live at the time of this post. The focus from Google in their pitch for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro seems to come down to four main categories: their Tensor chip and performance, the cameras, the software experience, and security.

Google Tensor on Pixel 6

We already thought Google Tensor, the first chip from Google to power a smartphone, would be powerful, but this suggests an "up to 80% faster performance." It also talks about the chip's custom image processor, its power efficiency skills, the extra layer of protection with included Titan M2 chip, and all the smarts for on-device AI. Google Tensor "makes Pixel 6 Pro the smartest and fastest Pixel yet."

Pixel 6 Pro cameras

The cameras on both phones, we are already know are headlined by 50MP main wide angle and 12MP ultra-wide lenses, with the Pixel 6 Pro also getting a 48MP telephoto shooter. The details that Google is preparing to share should get you excited beyond just those specs. According to this marketing deck, the main 50MP camera can capture 150% more light than the Pixel 5. And yes, that's on both phones. The Pixel 6 Pro is getting an added bonus in that telephoto lens, thanks to 4x optical zoom and Super Res Zoom that zooms up to 20x. As far as software features go, Google is going to pitch the Magic Eraser tool that'll remove unwanted objects from your photos after the fact, Face Unblur that will "deblur a face to make it sharper," and "authentic, accurate" portraits. The Pixel 6 Pro will have a 94-degree field-of-view on its selfie camera too, for when you want to "get everyone in the shot."

Pixel 6 battery and charging

We already know the battery capacities of each phone (they are on the larger side), but these two pages confirm a couple of important features. The Pixel 6 line can indeed charge at a 30W pace, so that could lead to 50% battery in just 30 minutes. I know that doesn't seem remarkably fast compared to other phones, but the batteries here are massive and all of Google's other phones charged at snail paces. We also now see the full confirmation of the new Pixel Stand, which means both phones do have wireless charging. The new Pixel Stand is "twice as powerful" as the original.

Pixel 6 and security

And finally, the fourth area of focus for Google will be in security. Their Google Tensor chip and the Titan M2 security chip onboard "make Pixel even more resilient to attacks." There's a new security hub with all the phone's security settings in one place, controls over things like mics and cameras, and 5 years of security updates. Yes, that's new.

The other stuff

Of course, those four key areas aren't all that was revealed. Here are a few other bits of info that was revealed.

Displays: The Pixel 6 has a 6.4" display and the Pixel 6 Pro has a 6.7" display, both things we knew, but Google did confirm high refresh rates and variable 120Hz with LTPO on the Pixel 6 Pro. Each phone has Gorilla Glass Invictus on its display for protection, plus we'll find a high brightness mode for use in sunlight.
IP68: Yep, each phone is IP68 water and dust resistant.
Google Translate: Google will once again talk about on-device AI, with an example being translations using the camera and no internet. It can also do translations of live video captions and private chats and messages.
Android 12: Of course, each phone will launch with Android 12, the new interface, the wallpaper theming, and an updated At a Glance widget that'll shore you more than ever.

A lot to dive into here. Let's have your thoughts on this beautiful Saturday morning.

Chrome on Android Gets a Sweet Little RSS Reader

Kellen — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:25:20 +0000

Google tried to kill off RSS several years ago when they cancelled Google Reader to the dismay of countless internet users. We've survived with services like Feedly, but RSS has never really been the same without Google being a big part of the experience. Today, in Chrome on Android, Google is coming back to RSS with an experiment that works a lot like an RSS reader, because why the hell not? In Chrome's stable channel on Android (v94+), the New Tab page will now show you a "Following" section in addition to the Discover feed you've been using for a while now. That "Following" section is where the feeds from websites you've subscribed to will show up. Yep, it's an RSS reader in Chrome! If you aren't seeing the new section in Chrome yet, install Chrome Beta and you likely will. Otherwise, in stable Chrome, you can jump through chrome://flags and search for "web feed." Enable that option and the new "Following" area should show up.

To subscribe to a site, like the on you are reading, tap the 3-dot menu up top, then at the bottom look for a "Follow" button. Tapping that will add the RSS feed of that site to that New Tab "Following" section. If you'd like to add multiple sites there, you certainly can. If you'd like to edit the ones you follow, simply tap the gear icon next to the Following tap, then "Manage," and look for the "Following" option. To get rid of a feed, uncheck the box for that site and Chrome will remove its RSS feed. Google's Adrienne Porter Felt said today that the Chrome team has been working on this for a while and that an iOS version is coming soon. There could be a desktop version as well, but that is a "bit further out." Google Play Link: Chrome https://twitter.com/__apf__/status/1446503789586894850

Watch a Pixel 6 Pro Get Assembled in Video Presumably Produced by Teletubbies

Tim — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 11:56:16 +0000

Well, this is one you don't see too often. In the Android community, we're very used to seeing video teardowns of a device following release, but we hardly ever see the assembling of a device. In a video posted to YouTube, we get the full rundown of Pixel 6 Pro assembly, with the boards getting installed and all of that jazz.

What We Know So Far: Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro Specs

I poke fun at the video in the headline, simply because the video appears to be produced by the same folks who gave us Teletubbies all those years ago. There's kiddy music and simplistic graphics, making it all very easy to follow. If you're into peaking at the internals of the upcoming Pixel 6 Pro, give it a watch. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3zxb5Jpipk&ab_channel=ZeusOlympus

Remastered Grand Theft Auto Collection Coming to Android Next Year

Tim — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 09:13:47 +0000

Detailed this morning, a remastered version (aka Definitive Edition) of the fantastic Grand Theft Auto trilogy is coming to Android next year. That release will be after it hits PC and console. For those who don't know, the trilogy as its known, consists of GTA III, GTA Vice City, and GTA San Andreas. Three of the best video games ever made, no debate. Rockstar doesn't provide specifics for what we should expect in terms of graphical enhancements, but they do say the following.

The Definitive Edition will feature across-the-board upgrades including graphical improvements and modern gameplay enhancements for all three titles, while still maintaining the classic look and feel of the originals. We’re extremely excited to share more about these groundbreaking titles in the coming weeks — stay tuned!

For console and PC, this new edition will launch later this year. Due to this, Rockstar will soon pull the existing digital listings for these titles, just so folks aren't wasting their money on outdated editions. This will probably be sweet. Would I rather have a GTA VI announcement? Yes, but this is also cool. I can't wait to cruise the streets of Los Santos as CJ once again. Also, the music for Vice City is banging! // Rockstar

Mobvoi is About to Announce the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra

Kellen — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 08:59:35 +0000

Mobvoi has another new watch to announce, this time as the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS. I wish that name wasn't serious, but this is serious and that really is the name of their new watch. I'm just reporting the news, folks, be nice to me. On October 13 at 6AM Pacific (9AM Eastern), Mobvoi says they'll show off the TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra and presumably detail all of what's new compared to last year's TicWatch Pro 3. As you can see above, the watch actually leaked several weeks back through a YouTuber who briefly showed off the watch on camera a touch early. We assume it'll run the Snapdragon Wear 4100+, but the rest of the story is somewhat up-in-the-air. The folks at XDA did dig into Mobvoi's app recently and found strings that talk about new advanced heartrate tracking features, so we at least have that to look forward to. The TicWatch Pro 3 was an excellent watch and I'm sure this new Ultra model will be quite premium. Of course, it won't run Wear OS 3 for a while, so keep that in mind as its unveiled next week. If interested in this watch or getting one for free through a contest, hit up Mobvoi's site.

Moto G Pure Arrives in US for $160

Kellen — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 12:58:32 +0000

Motorola, king of budget phones, dropped another budget phone on our faces this morning. The Moto G Pure is that phone, and it comes in at a ridiculously low price with a set of specs not meant to win any awards, but one that should power you through lengthy sessions off the charger. The Moto G Pure sports a 6.5" HD (720p) LCD display, MediaTek Helio G25 processor, 3GB RAM, 32GB storage (with SD slot), 4000mAh battery, IP52 water resistance, dual rear camera (13MP + 2MP), 5MP selfie camera, Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB-C port. There's no NFC, as is often the case with Moto's budget phones, so that means no Google Pay during a time where tapping-to-pay is something we should all do more of. This new Moto G Pure runs a clean version of Android 11, so you've got that going on should you decide to grab one. Priced at $159.99, you'll find the Moto G Pure up for pre-order on October 14 at Best Buy, Walmart, B&H Photo, Amazon, and Motorola.com. Around October 14, Verizon will begin selling it as well, with T-Mobile and AT&T joining the party in a few months.

Latest Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Specs List Looks Good

Kellen — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 11:54:32 +0000

Google probably had a well-thought-out reason for showing off the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro so early, basically two months before they officially revealed the devices in great detail. Maybe it was to control the narrative. Maybe it was to make the leaks less important. Maybe it's because they are so excited about a couple of devices that should be their best yet. Whatever the case, because of that early tease and the fact that Google struggles to keep anything Pixel-related under wraps, we really are learning almost all of the details before Google has a chance to share them at their October 19 event. In this post, since there are have been several solid sources of information to pull from, we put together an updated Pixel 6 specs list that should paint a solid picture of what you can expect in a couple of weeks. The sources we used here are Google themselves, the FCC, a retailer listing, a supposed in-the-wild device, and last night's press render spread. Google is clearly making two large and high-end Android phones with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, but there are certainly differences that'll push you to one or the other. For example, if you want the ultimate display at a quad HD resolution and with a 120Hz refresh rate, you've got to go Pro. Are you fine with a slightly smaller device and a flat 1080p display at 90Hz that might last two days on a charge? Then you might go Pixel 6. Do you want an extra telephoto lens and UWB and more RAM and slightly more traditional color options? The 6 Pro is for you. Maybe you don't need a telephoto camera, like a sillier color on your phone's exterior, and are hoping to pay hundreds less? Yep, regular Pixel 6. I don't think either will give you wildly different experiences, but Google is likely going to present these two phones with a sizable price difference because the Pixel 6 Pro does indeed have a handful of key upgrades. You'll just need to decide if they are worth paying for.

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Specs: The Latest

[table id=214 /]

Verizon's 5G UWB Expands to 5 New Markets, 5G Home to 3 New Markets

Tim — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 09:16:44 +0000

Verizon's 5G is continuing its spread across this beautiful land of ours, popping up in new markets this month. Five markets are getting access to 5G Ultra Wideband (UWB), while three markets are getting Verizon's 5G Home service. With the addition of these markets, 5G UWB is now up in a total of 87 markets, while 5G Home is in 57 markets. Below you can view the full list of new markets for each service.

5G Home New Markets
- Birmingham, AL
- Fort Wayne, IN
- Oklahoma City, OK
5G UWB New Markets
- Jacksonville, FL
- El Paso, TX
- Dayton, OH
- Scranton, PA
- Tacoma, WA

If this is great news for you, you'll want to go to Verizon's site to check if your specific area within these markets is 5G UWB supported. Not every inch of the cities listed gets access. As for 5G Home, it's quite competitive in terms of pricing. Give it a look. Not bad, not bad. // Verizon

First Looks at Pixel 6's New Pixel Stand and Some Other Goodies are Here

Kellen — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 08:27:19 +0000

With the Pixel 6 event still a few days away, the leaks refuse to stop. In the latest dump, we get to see both phones in the hands of humans, wearing a case, with some water splashed around on their surfaces, and on what appears to be the new Pixel Stand, which should give us faster charging. The images were all posted by @evleaks though a series of Tweets that start with high-res press images, followed by shots of the Android 12 UI we'll see on the Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 6, a bunch of happy people who look extra happy to be holding Google's new phone, and the device sitting around on counters, on the Pixel Stand, and with random water all over it. The new Pixel Stand can be seen just below, sporting a much thicker body than the original. It looks more half-bulb than wireless charger, so you have to wonder if there's more to this than just faster 23W charging speeds. This looks like a dock with hidden tricks.

In these images, you can see Android 12's new Security page, with a giant green checkmark to show that your phone is super safe and not at all infected by the malware the industry suggests all Android phones have. The image also shows a Pixel 6 Pro in a case, lookin extra thick.

And finally, @evleaks included this camera specs shot that confirms 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto lenses on the Pixel 6 Pro. These specs are well-known at this point from previous leaks, but we love a good visualization. The regular Pixel 6, for those not following this story, won't have that 48MP telephoto lens - it'll get the 50MP and 12MP shooters, though.

Assuming pricing in the US ends up as promising as it could be in Europe, the Pixel 6 line-up is going to be the phone to consider going into 2022.

European Retailer Details Surprisingly Reasonable Pixel 6 Pricing

Tim — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 13:36:09 +0000

We're so close to the release of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Because of this, it's only natural that leaks from retailers would begin, with a German retailer potentially spilling the beans on the price of the smaller Pixel 6. With expectations set that pricing for these new Pixel 6 devices would be high, we're actually surprised at how reasonable it seems. According to an image hitting the web, German retailer Saturn will have the Pixel 6 priced at 649€. Not only that, but your purchase will come with a free gift -- a pair of Bose 700 headphones ($379 value). That's a total score as far as we can tell.

There's no rule on whether a device maker's European pricing matches that of North America's, but it's a good place to start. If the Pixel 6 comes in at $649, we think that's a good offer, but again, there's no way to know if that's what we'll see in the US. We also don't expect many retailers to offer up $379 headphones as a pre-order gift, but that would be very sweet. We aren't seeing a Pixel 6 Pro price, but because I love guessing, I'm going to come in at $849. It's well under $1K and could get a lot of people on board with these devices. We already know Google is expecting to sell a good amount of them, so we shall see. Thoughts? // reddit

We're Glad to See Android 12's Theme Engine in Samsung's Latest One UI Beta

Tim — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 11:19:15 +0000

I downloaded and installed the latest One UI 4 beta onto my Galaxy S21 Ultra yesterday and was pleasantly surprised to see Android 12's best feature. Honestly, I didn't expect Samsung to build in Google's new wallpaper-powered theme engine into One UI, but here it is and so far it's pretty great. If you haven't been able to use it yet, Android 12 has a theme engine that is powered by the color of your current wallpaper. If you have a green wallpaper, your device's theme will automatically go green. If it's a blue wallpaper, you'll get a blue theme. If you want a bit more contrast, there are preselected color options you can choose from, too. The theme extends to the notification bar and system toggles, as well as app widgets and action buttons inside of select apps. Needless to say, if you're on Android 12, you can't miss it. Samsung's implementation of the theme engine is pretty similar to Google's on Pixel devices, but it's not as thorough. For example, while Samsung lets you choose from colors, they do not include Google's themed icons option. In all honesty, that's fine because Google's themed icons feature is not great at all, as many 3rd-party apps will likely never add their own custom icons. Samsung's own theme engine still allows for adding in custom icons, so it's possible the company didn't think it important to double down on that for users. To access this new menu, long press your home screen and hit the "Wallpaper" option. From here, you'll see a new "Color Theme" section. It's from there that you can access the new color options. If you're running the Android 12 beta on a Galaxy S21 device, you're probably loving this. We're very glad to see Samsung is really taking the update game seriously lately and bringing over some of the great features. We expect nothing less from the King of Android updates.

Google Maps Will Now Show You Most Fuel-Efficient Routes

Tim — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 08:43:35 +0000

Google is looking to help users lessen their carbon footprint using Google Maps, now showing more fuel-efficient routes that may add time to your trips, but will help use less gas and in turn save you some dough. According to Google, "Maps will let you choose the most fuel-efficient route if it isn’t already the fastest one. We estimate that this could save over one million tons of carbon emissions per year — the equivalent of removing over 200,000 cars from the road — and save you money by reducing fuel consumption."

Users in the US will begin seeing this today, while Europeans can expect to see it next year. #GetAnEV // Google

Samsung's Galaxy Watch 4 is $40 Off Today, So Buy One

Kellen — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 15:57:48 +0000

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, the best Wear OS smartwatch you can buy for the next year, is fresh enough still that we're surprised by a deal on it. Since there is a really nice deal on it today, consider us shocked. The Galaxy Watch 4 (the non-Classic model) in both 40mm and 44mm sizes been discounted at Woot! to $215 and $239, which means $35 and $40 discounts. This watch just launched a month ago and is already available at almost $200? Hell yes. You really should consider running to this deal if the Galaxy Watch 4 is at all on your radar. It is the better watch of the two, in my opinion, because it's lighter and better fitting than the Classic, the display looks sharper without the physical bezel around it, and the sizes will likely fit more wrists, especially since you should really only consider the 44mm version. Woot! is already starting to run out of sizes and colors as the sale winds down. Oh, and these are brand new units, not refurbished like we often see with devices like this. Seriously, hurry.

Shop Galaxy Watch 4 Woot! sale

You Can Now Add Philo to Google TV's Live Tab

Tim — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 15:05:37 +0000

Following the news from earlier this year that Sling TV customers could integrate their live channel lineup into Google TV's Live tab, Philo customers can now also get in on this same action. This move allows you to have Philo's live channels displayed directly on your Google TV Live tab, which means you don't have to open up the Philo app to see what's on TV at the moment. Pretty helpful, right?

How to Integrate Philo Into Google TV's Live Tab

Step 1: Have an active Philo subscription and a Google TV device
Step 2: Select Philo in the Google TV Settings under “Your services.”
Step 3: Play Philo channels by selecting the Live tab on Google TV. Scroll through the guide and watch Philo alongside all your favorite live television!

With all of the YouTube TV drama lately, now's a good time to detail that Philo currently offers 60+ channels for $25 and allows three separate streams on three different devices with up to 10 profiles. It is another option for those who are tired of the YouTube stuff. // Philo

New Nest Cam Indoor and Floodlight Models Up for Purchase

Tim — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 13:23:45 +0000

Nest's latest offerings, the Nest Cam Indoor (wired) and Nest Cam with Floodlight are up for purchase on the Google Store. For pricing, it's $99 for the wired indoor cam and $279 for the Floodlight model. For the Indoor unit, which comes in four colors, specs include motion detection, 1080p video recording, 24/7 recording, and a 135° field of view. And as you can see above in the header image, it comes in some seriously snappy colors, including wood finishes. As for the Floodlight model, as the name suggests, this is a new Nest Cam that attaches to a floodlight to give you bright lights in dark environments for better monitoring. Perfect for backyards or wherever else that might get dark. If either model interests you, follow the link below. Google Store Links: Nest Cam w/ Floodlight | Nest Cam Indoor Wired

OnePlus Shows Us OxygenOS 12 and Its Refreshed UI

Kellen — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 11:28:42 +0000

OnePlus, as you likely know, is going through some changes at the moment. They are now a sub-brand of OPPO and their software teams are basically one-and-the-same, where they'll share codebase and (hopefully) pump out updates and more stable builds more often. They'll also release some sort of new unified OS that will debut next year, but until then, we have OxygenOS 12 to look forward to on the current crop of OnePlus phones. To kickstart the arrival of this new OxygenOS 12, OnePlus showed off its changes and talked about the "refreshing" UI that'll first show up on the OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro. This new Oxygen OS 12 is available now as Open Beta 1 for these two phones. A forum post described OxygenOS 12 as providing a "more well-rounded experience that streamlines users' day-to-day work and enhances digital wellbeing." It talked about how this will give you a "firsthand" look at how OxygenOS has reached another level, thanks to being built off OPPO's ColorOS codebase, and that the "fully upgraded experience" will be more stable and have improved power-saving capabilities. The post shared several screenshots from the UI, with changes to Zen Mode, the OnePlus Shelf, the Notes app, and the 3 levels of Dark Mode they've built-in, based off community feedback.

Here is a full list of changes coming to this OnePlus 9 OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1:

System
- Optimized desktop icons with improved textures, by using a design inspired by brand-new materials and uniting lights and layers
Dark mode
- Dark mode now supports three adjustable levels, bringing a more personalized and comfortable user experience
Shelf
- New additional style options for Cards, making data contents more visual and easier to read
- Newly added Earphone Control Card with Bluetooth earphone one-click adjustment
- Newly added access to OnePlus Scout in Shelf, allowing you to search multiple contents on your phone, including Apps, Settings, Media Data, etc
- Newly added OnePlus Watch Card in Shelf, to easily glance at your health stats
Work Life Balance
- Work Life Balance feature is now available to all users, allowing you to effortlessly switch between Work and Life mode via quick settings
- WLB 2.0 now supports automatic Work/Life mode switching, based on specific locations, Wi-Fi network, and time, also bringing customized App notification profiles according to the personalization
Gallery
- Gallery now allows you to switch between different layouts with a two-finger pinch gesture, intelligently recognizing the best-quality pictures, and cropping the thumbnail based on the content, making the gallery layout more pleasing
Canvas AOD
- Canvas AOD brings you new diverse styles of lines and colors, for a more personalized lock screen experience with inspiring visuals
- Newly added multiple brushes and strokes and support for color adjustment
- Optimized software algorithm and improved face recognition to better identify the features and skin color of different figures

Again, while this is a big deal, having OxygenOS 12 (from Android 12) based off ColorOS codebase, this isn't the big unified OS we expect to see next year. For now, this will likely be more of the same that we got last year, only with further polish and a UI that looks less and less like the OnePlus of old. If you are interested in running OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 on your OnePlus 9 device, hit up this link for instructions and download links.

The Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Arrive October 19!

Kellen — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 09:58:46 +0000

It's official! Google just set October 19 as the date that they'll show off the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Two weeks from now, folks! For now, you can head over to this link where the event will take place, hit the spacebar to "change moods," and download the calendar file. I can't imagine you'd miss this anyway. The event will be streamed at 10AM Pacific (1PM Eastern) on the 19th. We're all ready, right? Like, so ready? https://twitter.com/madebygoogle/status/1445426131297976321

Updated One UI 4 (Android 12) Beta Headed to Galaxy S21 Devices

Tim — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 08:56:36 +0000

Samsung is pushing an updated One UI 4 (Android 12) build to beta testers on Galaxy S21 devices, which looks like a general bug fixer update, according to the changelog. As noted, fixes for color themes, RAM Plus, Samsung Keyboard accuracy, Secure Folder, and performance are included, plus Samsung details that they have added Mic Mode for video calls. "Many improvements" are listed as being included, so that sounds nice. This updated is labeled as build ZUJ1. All of you beta testers seeing this update today?

Cheers Alan!

Firefox for Android Gets New Password Creation and Storage Tools

Tim — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 08:31:43 +0000

Firefox for Android, one of the many web browser apps there are on Android should you decline to use Chrome, announced new features this week in celebration of Cybersecurity Awareness month. Most of what's new centers on security and passwords, though, it should be noted there is a new Firefox Focus experience, catered to those looking to "get in and get out" of places on the web. It actually sounds pretty slick.

We added a fresh new look with new colors, a new logo and a dark theme. We added a shortcut feature so that users can get to the sites they visit the most. And with privacy in mind you will see the privacy Tracking Protection Shield icon which is accessible from the search bar so you can quickly turn the individual trackers on or off when you click the shield icon. Plus, we added a global counter that shows you all the trackers blocked for you.

Here's a list of what's new in Firefox for Android this week.

What's New

Create and save passwords on Firefox that can be used across both mobile and desktop.
Easily autofill your password on your phone and use any password you’ve saved in the browser to log into any online account like your Twitter or Instagram app.
Use your operating system’s biometric security to unlock the access page to your logins and passwords.

These will undoubtedly be big inclusions if you're a Firefox regular. If you're coming from Chrome, you'll be happy to see features that Google has been offering for some time. It's good to have options. Go check it out. Google Play Links: Firefox | Firefox Focus // Mozilla

Google's Smart Home Developer Summit 2021 Kicks Off October 21

Tim — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 12:17:47 +0000

Google announced the return of the Smart Home Developer Summit, scheduled to take place October 21. This is the place to tune into if you're building apps or services that cater to smart home users, with it noted that there are over 276 million smart home households globally. As we all know, this is a rapidly growing business, with plenty of massive names vying for every inch of your household. As Google fans, my whole house is wired with Google stuff, ranging fro smart speakers to cameras, to televisions. If you're into that sorta thing, the Smart Home Developer Summit is completely free to attend for anyone interested. Curious about what will take place? Google gives an idea of what to expect at the Summit.

To kick things off, Michele Turner, Senior Director of Product for Google’s Smart Home Ecosystem, will share our vision for the home and preview upcoming tools and features to build your next devices and apps using Matter and Thread — technologies transforming the industry. This will be followed by a developer keynote to dig deeper into announcements, and a round of technical sessions, workshops, and more, hosted by Google's smart home leaders.

Sound sweet? Register below.

Register Here

// Google

225K People Tested Android 12 Beta, 50K Bugs Reported

Tim — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 10:27:05 +0000

Android 12 has officially hit AOSP, and with that announcement, Google shared a few beta details with the community. According to Google, over 225,000 people signed up for and used the Android 12 beta, with more than 50,000 issues/bugs being reported by those individuals to ensure a smooth and stable release. We're not sure how these figures stack up with each Android beta, but we have to assume it's up there. Google previously said that the Android 12 beta is the most downloaded, by far. Android 12 is one of the better upgrades we've seen for the platform in some time, so it'd be no surprise to learn that many are excited and anxiously awaiting its public release. It should be soon now. Were you one of the 225K testers? If you own a Pixel device and read Droid Life, that seems like a safe bet. // Android Developers

October 2021 Android Security Update Now Available for Google Pixel Phones

Kellen — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 10:06:11 +0000

Android 12 should be here any day now, but being the first Monday of the month, and Android 12 only hitting AOSP today, Google is instead releasing what should be the final Android 11 monthly security patch. All of the currently supported Pixel phones, from the Pixel 3 up through the new Pixel 5a, are all receiving this new Android 11 patch for October. Currently, we are seeing new 11.0.0 files for Pixel 5a (RD2A.211001.002, RD2A.211001.001), Pixel 5 (RQ3A.211001.001), Pixel 4a 5G (RQ3A.211001.001), Pixel 4a (RQ3A.211001.001), Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL (RQ3A.211001.001), Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL (RQ3A.211001.001), and Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL (RQ3A.211001.001). Google did not provide a changelog for this update. Google should begin pushing these updates shortly (Settings>System>Advanced>System update), but if you don’t want to wait for Google and prefer to update manually, you will find each factory image or OTA file at the links below. For instructions on how to flash a factory image, here you go. For instructions on how to flash an OTA .zip file, here you go. Links:

Android 12 Goes Live in AOSP!

Kellen — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 10:01:52 +0000

Google just pushed Android 12 to AOSP, hooray! Oh, you want it on your Pixel phone? That's not happening just yet. Google, as a part of this AOSP announcement, says that Android 12 will hit a device near you "in the next few weeks." With today's arrival in AOSP, Google is hoping for developers to continue getting their apps ready for Android 12's launch on actual devices. In fact, on the Android 12 pages that are home to the Android 12 Beta builds and info, Google has a note that reads, "Until the rollout of the Android 12 official release to Pixel devices and Android TV, please continue to use the Beta 5 images for your testing." In the mean time, for those not even running an Android 12 Beta, you can grab the new October Android patch that just rolled out. This should be the last Android 11 update we see. So what does today mean for you? Not much really. If you own a Pixel phone, like the Pixel 3 or Pixel 4 or Pixel 5, just keep using it. Google is still preparing the actual stable Android 12 update and will release it soon. Today is mostly a developer-related day. // Android Developers Blog

T-Mobile Offers New 500GB Tier of Google One Storage for $5/Month

Tim — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 09:06:16 +0000

Beginning October 12, T-Mobile will be offering customers the chance to add 500GB of storage to their Google account for only $5/month. This is part of T-Mobile and Google's partnership that kicked off in March of this year and it was at that time that they teased this exact offer. Very nice. If you weren't aware, Google hasn't even offered a 500GB cloud storage plan before now, so this is actually pretty sweet. For others, they offer a 100GB plan for $2/month, 200GB for $3/month, and then a 2TB plan for $10/month. That 500GB sweet spot has been missing, so again, this is a welcomed addition to the storage lineup. T-Mobile details that Google One for T-Mobile is available for customers with Android and iOS devices on consumer postpaid plans. Prepaid customers not getting any love here. Customers can sign up for 500GB or 2TB storage plans through their T-Mobile account online, in the app, or at their local stores. Furthermore, Sprint customers who have not yet migrated to T-Mobile can sign up for the 500GB via the T-Mobile Tuesdays app or by calling Sprint Care. Thanks, T-Mobile. // T-Mobile

YouTube Music Gets Background Play for Free, But Only in Canada

Kellen — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 07:36:13 +0000

One of the biggest limitations of YouTube Music has always been that listening without a YouTube Premium subscription means you can't exactly listen without your screen on and the app open at all times. It's an absolutely silly requirement, that you keep the app open at all times in order continue playing tunes without interruption, but that's how Google has kept the feature set for free users. Today, Google announced that they will begin changing this requirement, starting in Canada. On November 3, YouTube Music users in Canada will be able to enable background listening, giving them the option to leave the YouTube Music app or lock their phone screen without cutting off playback. This feature will allow you to take YouTube Music for a run and put your phone away, leave the app briefly to check an email, or open any other app while the beats keep playing. It'll mean listening to continuous radio stations (with ads), enjoying all of the music you've uploaded manually, and jumping into personalized playlists too. Google also mentioned that you can "keep streaming music and videos, on-demand, with the YouTube app," as if background play is supported there as well. No other countries were announced as getting this free background play feature, but I'd imagine they'll keep rolling it out. It's likely that Google needs approvals from the music industry per country.

YouTube TV and NBC Reach Deal, Price Stays at $65

Kellen — Sat, 02 Oct 2021 10:48:44 +0000

Alright YouTube TV subscribers, we have good news for you today. Google and NBC Universal have come to an agreement and the NBC portfolio of channels will remain on YouTube TV. The terms of that deal were not specifically laid out, but Google did say that they are carrying the "full" lineup of channels, that you won't lose any access, and that they'll continue to offer 85+ networks for $64.99. So all of this has happened without a price increase, at least for now. Let's hope there isn't one. As far as we can tell, you won't have Peacock forced on you either, which was reportedly one of the terms NBC was seeking. Enjoy your weekend. // YouTube TV

Remember Those Citigroup-Backed Google Bank Accounts? No Longer Happening

Tim — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:31:51 +0000

We first heard about Google's intentions of offering bank accounts to users back in late 2019. Since then, we've been waiting for that Plex account waitlist inside of the Google Pay app to turn into an actual invitation to sign up, but according to The Wall Street Journal, that won't be happening. In a statement provided to media, a Google spokesperson states, "Our work with our partners has made it extremely clear that there’s consumer demand for simple, seamless and secure digital payments for online and in-store transactions. We’re updating our approach to focus primarily on delivering digital enablement for banks and other financial services providers rather than us serving as the provider of these services.” We assume this move was going to allow users to access all of their money from the single Google Pay app, with the accounts backed by the likes of Citigroup and Stanford Federal. We can sit around and reminisce about what might've been, but for now, it looks like Google is abandoning the project. It's noted that the ex-Googler who oversaw the project, Caesar Sengupta, left the company to start his own fintech company and took fellow Googlers with him. I wonder if that had anything to do with this news? Oh well. // Wall Street Journal | CNBC

Fossil Gen 6 Unboxing, Tour, and Setup!

Kellen — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 11:25:39 +0000

The Fossil Gen 6 arrived this week as the most high-end smartwatch on the planet running Wear OS 2. That's a very specific title or description because, well, Samsung also makes very high-end smartwatches, but they happen to run Wear OS 3. Those distinctions tell a lot of the story that we will dive deeper into once we've spent more time with each. For now, let's just have some unboxing fun with this new Fossil Gen 6 that showed up on our doorstep. To recap, the Fossil Gen 6 is the newest device from the Fossil Group, with a Snapdragon Wear 4100+ chip, 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, GPS, NFC, Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, heartrate and SpO2 sensor, 3ATM water resistance, and a 1.28" round AMOLED display that's surrounded by a 44mm case. That 44mm case is made of stainless steel and supports 22mm quick-change straps. You'll also find a speaker and microphone for taking calls, a lot of wellness-related software tracking, fast charging, and all of Fossil's excellent battery mode to help you customize the experience. I've spent all of 15 hours so far with the Gen 6 on the wrist and quite like the way it fits, feels, and performs. It has a good weight to it, spreads out nicely on my arm even at 44mm, and most definitely snaps around when you interact with it. Of course, none of that may matter to you knowing that this watch runs Wear OS 2 and likely won't get Wear OS 3 for almost a year, but we're still going to do the testing. Any questions about the Fossil Gen 6? Shop Fossil Gen 6 Deals: Amazon | Fossil.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaDB4npMpa0

YouTube TV Isn't Losing NBC Channels Just Yet

Kellen — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:57:49 +0000

You may have noticed that your YouTube TV subscription didn't receive a reduction in channels last night and that your bill didn't drop by $10. That's because YouTube TV and NBC Universal have reached some sort of temporary agreement to keep the channels on Google's streaming platform while they continue negotiating. In a short statement released last night, Google simply said the following:

We don’t have an update on the negotiations with NBC, but as of now there is no change to your available networks. As soon as we have any updates, we'll let you know.

NBCU provided this statement:

NBCUniversal and YouTube TV have agreed to a short extension while parties continue talks. NBCUniversal will not go dark on YouTube TV at midnight eastern tonight.

NBC was referring to last night's contract end, which was previously acknowledged as being September 30. That deadline has now passed, and yes, you can still consume NBC content on YouTube TV for now. We don't know how long this short extension will last or if these two will come to any sort of agreement. I can't imagine they won't, unless NBC keeps trying to force their bad, unneeded Peacock service onto YouTube TV subscribers. We'll keep you updated!

Report: NBCUniversal Plans Peacock Relaunch, Which Makes a Lot of Sense

Tim — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:49:38 +0000

We're still waiting to see how this YouTube TV vs. NBCUniversal drama shakes out, with negotiations seemingly not too fruitful, even as the contract expiration for Google to carry the NBC lineup of channels passed us last night. Now, we're learning something very interesting concerning NBCUniversal's plans for Peacock, which makes this whole situation a lot more easy on the brain. According to a leaked strategy deck obtained by Business Insider, NBCUniversal is planning a big relaunch of Peacock in 2022, with plans to be a "top 4 must-have SVOD (streaming video on demand)” service. How does NBCUniversal intend on catapulting its flightless Peacock to the heights of Netflix and Hulu? What's quoted in the deck is "mass premium customer acquisition," which is always easier said than done. How does one acquire mass amounts of premium customers? For services such as these, it's all about the content. In the report, it goes on to state that starting in 2022, Peacock could become the exclusive home for all Universal movies after they leave theaters. Furthermore, Peacock intends for a completely revamped interface, plus don't forget that NBCUniversal holds the rights to very popular content from the likes of WWE, Premier League, Sunday Night Football, The Office, and much more. As everything comes into focus, and a previous report detailing that a YouTube TV deal wasn't reached because Google refused to bundle Peacock with YouTube TV, we're beginning to see that corporations are greedy and would like more money. This is not a huge revelation, but simply more evidence to that fact. We'll keep you posted. // Business Insider | The Streamable

Verizon Has Big, New Prepaid Data Plans and They are All $30/mo Off

Kellen — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 13:41:42 +0000

Verizon revealed a whole new set of prepaid data plans today for those who need connected tablets, hotspots, and routers. They now go all of the way up to 150GB of data per month, but the bigger news for today is without a doubt the discount that Verizon is including for the time being. The new plans start at 5GB and top out at 150GB of data per month. They also have 100GB and 25GB plans, all of which replace the previous 6GB, 16GB, and 30GB line-up. Without a discount, you could pay anywhere from $40/mo (5GB) to $100/mo (150GB), an amount I'd argue isn't worth it for the data. However, there's a way you can get into all of them for $30/mo cheaper. Verizon is currently running a promotion where all prepaid data plans are $30 off each month. The requirement to get that deal is only one where you already have an active prepaid line of some sort. So, that could mean you already rock with a prepaid phone account or have another prepaid data plan for another tablet or hotspot or something. Adding another data plan then gets you the $30 off. At $30 off per month, the breakdown looks like this:

150GB for $70/mo (normally $100/mo)
100GB for $50/mo (normally $80/mo)
25GB for $30/mo (normally $60/mo)
5GB for $10/mo (normally $40/mo)

Be aware that both the 150GB and 100GB plans have access to 5G Ultra Wideband and allow you to stream to devices at 4K. The 25GB and 5GB plans only get HD streams and no Ultra Wideband support.

Shop Verizon Prepaid plans

Spotify Podcasts Get Polls and Q&As

Tim — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 08:53:35 +0000

If you were hoping for a more interactive podcast experience from Spotify, it has officially launched as of today. Starting this week, podcasters can access new Poll and Q&A features, allowing them to make their shows more interactive with listeners. Should your favorite podcaster play with these features, you'll find questions and polls posted at the bottom of an episode page on the Spotify app. If you're a creator, you can find the new features while uploading your episodes. It's all pretty straightforward.

How It Works

For listeners
- On episodes where a creator has chosen to post a question or poll, listeners can find the posted question at the bottom of the episode page on Spotify mobile (iOS and Android). Listeners can follow the prompt to respond in-app.
For creators
- While creating or uploading an episode on Anchor, creators can find Q&A and Polls functionality before hitting publish. They’ll be prompted to provide their question and choose whether they want it to be a poll or an open-response Q&A.
- Creators will be notified when listeners respond to their questions and will be able to view responses in their episode page on Anchor. For Q&As, they can also select responses to highlight directly on the episode page.

Is it as interactive and fun as the Droid Life Show's trivia game? Lol, not even close, but this is still neat. These changes go in effect today, so be on the lookout for polls and Q&As from your favorite podcasts. // Spotify

Nest Hub Drops to $40, But Act Fast

Kellen — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 08:42:21 +0000

The original Google Nest Hub (1st Gen) is the deal of the day at the moment, thanks to a sale that has dropped its price to just $39.99. That's a solid $50 discount, assuming you can find one in stock anywhere. The deal first popped up early enough this morning that a ton of retailers have already sold out, like Best Buy. However, if you hurry, places like Lowe's still have them, even with local stock you may be able to grab. I don't think you need a recap, but in case you do, just remember that this is the original Google Home Hub that later become the Nest Hub (1st Gen). It has a cute little touch screen as a smart display that can show you the weather, daily news, play media, and give you access to the Google Assistant. It has been heavily improved in recent years, with a UI that works like the hub of your home should. Hurry! Shop Nest Hub $40 deals:

Upgraded Wired Nest Doorbell, Google Home Desktop Experience Coming in 2022

Tim — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:29:55 +0000

Nest's GM and VP, Rishi Chandra, detailed this afternoon that Nest will be offering an upgraded wired video doorbell in 2022. For anyone keeping track, the original Nest Hello doorbell launched in 2018 and there's also the new wire-free Nest video doorbell that went on sale just this month. According to Chandra, the new doorbell will be capable of 24/7 video monitoring, among what's hopefully other upgrades, which is a nice bonus to look forward to. Naturally, you'll need a Nest Aware subscription to take advantage of that feature, though.

We know that those with wired doorbell connections prefer to have a doorbell that can also support 24/7 continuous video history (via the Nest Aware subscription). We are excited to share that we will be launching a 2nd generation of Nest Doorbell (wired) in 2022.

While new hardware is always fun, a big update for the Google Home experience is coming as well. As detailed, at some point in 2022 a new desktop experience will be available to Google Home users, allowing Nest camera and doorbell owners to view and control feeds from a computer, not just the app on their phones. Why this has taken so long, don't ask me, but it's on the calendar for next year.

And we’ve also been working on rolling out a desktop experience for the Google Home app, so the new Nest cameras and doorbell feeds can be viewed and controlled from there. This will launch in 2022.

This is all great news. // Google Nest Community

OnePlus Buds Pro are Pretty Dope and $30 Off Today Only

Kellen — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 13:13:09 +0000

OnePlus is hosting a 1-day sale on its excellent OnePlus Buds Pro, dropping the price from $149.99 to $119.99. That's a $30 discount and well worth considering if you are in the market for a pair of true wireless earbuds that have it all. I reviewed the OnePlus Buds Pro earlier in the month and came away very impressed. This may not be saying much, but these are easily OnePlus' best earbuds to date and are mostly certainly a pair that can compete with Samsung's best. In the feature department you get ANC, fast wired charging + wireless charging, solid 5-hour battery life, rich sound, clicky stems to complete actions instead of touch pads, and a slick design that doesn't just look like another AirPods knockoff. Through a companion app, you can even customize some of the sound experience to get the best performance for your ears. Again, at full price, these were a great choice for high-end earbuds, but at $30 off, you should really consider grabbing a pair.

Shop OnePlus Buds Pro ($30 off)

My Pixel 5 Will Be Missed

Tim — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 11:49:15 +0000

When the Pixel 6 Pro is released, I'll be using my current daily driver, the Pixel 5, as a trade-in device to purchase Google's latest offering. When that day comes, it'll be sad, because even though I've talked plenty of smack on the Pixel 5 over the past year, it's my go-to phone. I've come to enjoy using it, even if it's a "mid-range device" that still cost $699. What I think I'll truly miss is the hardware and size. We're expecting something much different from the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, and honestly, I've grown completely accustomed to this Pixel 5 in my hand and in my pocket. It's really the perfect size for me. As we have seen in a photo, we expect the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro to be quite a bit taller. If you're coming from a similar sized device, you'll be just fine, but for us Pixel 5 owners, it's going to feel like we're sticking a brick into our front pocket. Pray for us. I mentioned earlier that I've talked smack about the Pixel 5. It's true, I have said some harsh things, but all warranted in my mind. The phone continues to be among one of the slower devices I've used in a while, but I let a lot of the performance issues slide because it does other things so well, such as taking photos and the new Android 12 software experience is very nice. I'd argue all phones have pros and cons, but the performance cons on the Pixel 5 can sometimes be quite apparent. Regardless of the issues I've had, it's my phone and it'll be missed. I wrote a similar post earlier this month, detailing that I'm not looking forward to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro's in-display fingerprint reader. This is another thing the Pixel 5 has going for it. It's a ridiculously usable smartphone and easily gets most jobs done. Having now used it for a solid year, my hope is that the Pixel 6 Pro lives up the hype that we and Google have set for it. Do I have any fellow Pixel 5 owners that intend to let their baby go for a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro? What emotions are you feeling? It's okay, this is a safe space to share your thoughts. We're all here to support each other.

How the Pixel 5 Compares to the Pixel 6 in Size

Kellen — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 11:05:07 +0000

The Pixel 5 is one of my favorite phones in recent years in large part because of its size. In a world filled with whale devices trying to convince you they are manageable, the Pixel 5 is a true one-handed phone that's light and easy to use no matter the situation. And while I know there are all of 10 of these in the wild, those of us who own and love the Pixel 5 have been worried from that first Pixel 6 reveal by Google that we would soon be suffering with a phone much larger than we prefer. A reddit user decided to buy one of the early available Pixel 6 cases to see just how big the new Google phone might be compared to his Pixel 5, and yeah, it's bad news. In the image here, this user slipped his Pixel 5 inside of the Pixel 6 case and there is a large gap from the top of the phone to the top of the case, as well as a bit of space on the right side. We already knew that the Pixel 6 would feature a 6.4" display, which is a decent increase over the Pixel 5's 6" display. Seeing it here, though, makes me sad.

You also need to keep in mind that this is a case for the regular Pixel 6, not the larger Pixel 6 Pro. If you plan on buying a Pixel 6 Pro, with its 6.7" display, the difference between the two will be even greater. Google is fully embracing the whale phone once again, only this time they aren't giving us a choice over small and large, it's either large or x-large. Of course, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro should be greatly improved over the Pixel 5, a device that always felt like a somewhat-affordable placeholder made for a pandemic rather than a device meant to sell or push new technologies. The Pixel 6 line-up will be a big deal for Google with new cameras, new designs, and their first chip, called Tensor. Owning one as a upgrade to the Pixel 5 will likely be worth it, even if the size isn't where we want it. Everyone ready?

YouTube Music is Ready for Your Old Wear OS Watch

Kellen — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 09:52:27 +0000

Google said earlier in the week that the rollout of YouTube Music to select Wear OS 2 watches would begin shortly and they weren't messing around. Today, YouTube Music is indeed available to a couple of Mobvoi watches, as well as the Fossil Gen 6. To grab the previously Wear OS 3-exclusive music app, you'll hit that Google Play link below from your phone, then look for the "Available on more devices" section. Tap that and a dropdown menu should show your supported watches, including the TicWatch Pro 3, TicWatch E3, and Fossil Gen 6. I've seen some reports of folks sideloading the app onto their Fossil Gen 5 and other older watches with some success. Feel free to try if you don't own one of the watches I mentioned above. If there are bugs, understand that's part of the game when using an app that isn't supported. With YouTube Music on your Wear OS watch, you will be able to download music for offline playback, choose from thousands of playlists and millions of songs, and utilize Smart Downloads, to refresh songs when connected to WiFi. It looks like a slick little app that I've never used because, well, Spotify. Google Play Link: YouTube Music

Cheers Bryant!

Samsung's $800 Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Thom Browne Edition Now Up for Purchase

Tim — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 08:41:11 +0000

If you happen to be doing better than many other people, why not spend a few extra hundred bucks on a limited edition digital timepiece? Samsung has begun selling its Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Thom Browne edition, priced at only $799. Samsung doesn't have specifics on just how many were made, but whatever the number is, this whole thing oozes ripoff. For differences, there aren't any. The Thom Browne edition comes with three strap options, plus some exclusive watch faces. Looking at Samsung's website, you can purchase a regular Galaxy Watch 4 Classic (our review here) in this 42mm size for just $349. That's a much better deal and you're getting the exact same thing, minus the bands and watch faces that could likely be sneakily sideloaded if you care that much. You're getting the same fitness and health sensors, ECG access, and all of that. If you're interested, follow the link below. If I was your financial advisor, I'd say, "Don't do it."

Samsung Link

NBC Tried to Force Peacock on YouTube TV

Kellen — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 16:26:20 +0000

You are likely well aware of the ongoing dispute between NBC Universal and YouTube TV that could cause Google's streaming TV service to lose all of NBC's channels this Thursday, September 30. Each side has put out public statements to explain their view of the situation, including Google suggesting that YouTube TV subscribers should prepare to see those channels disappear and receive a price cut at the same time. Today, we're learning one of the specific reasons why they have yet to come to an agreement and you probably won't be happy. According to a blog post from LightShed Partners and confirmed with Google by ArsTechnica, NBC demanded that Google bundle its Peacock streaming service with YouTube TV. As you are probably thinking, that makes little sense. Why would Google and YouTube TV want to force Peacock on its customers, when the content on Peacock is already provided through YouTube TV and all of NBC's channels? Yeah, it's dumb and they (of course) didn't want to do that. It makes even less sense when you consider that Peacock is a stand-alone service and would require YouTube TV customers to install Peacock separately on all of their devices to use it. The folks at LightShed Partners believe this demand was made because NBC's Peacock service hasn't been adopted like they hoped. That's a bit shocking when you consider that they forced millions of people onto the service to watch a bunch of Olympics coverage. I guess no one stuck around to watch re-runs of The Office, eh? I'm shocked. You can subscribe to Peacock through $5 (ad-filled) or $10 (ad-free) options, but again, if you already have all of NBC's channels through your streaming TV provider, why would you want access to more NBC in an on-demand setting? You probably don't. Additionally, if NBC were to force Google into bundling Peacock, the price of YouTube TV would likely have increased (again), something I can't imagine Google wants to do. We still aren't sure how this will shake out with only a couple of days remaining on the current deal between the two. We'll keep you updated.

Samsung September Updates: Fold 3, Flip 3 Get Their First

Kellen — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 15:36:51 +0000

As we wrap up September, Samsung is pushing out another big batch of updates to its best and newest phones. Today, if you own a Galaxy S21, Galaxy Z Fold 3, or Galaxy Z Flip 3, feel free to hammer on that "Check for updates" button. Rolling out now to the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3, and Galaxy S20 5G UW (Verizon), we have the September Android security patch, as well as "performance improvements." Since this is the first update for the Fold 3 and Flip 3, I was hoping we'd see more than simple fixes, but they are only a few weeks old. The new builds to lookout for are:

Galaxy S21: RP1A.200720.012.G991USQU4AUIG
Galaxy S21+: RP1A.200720.012.G996USQU4AUIG
Galaxy S21 Ultra: RP1A.200720.012.G998USQU4AUIG
Galaxy Z Fold 3: RP1A.200720.012.F926USQU1AUI5
Galaxy Z Flip 3: RP1A.200720.012.F711USQU2AUI5
Galaxy S20 5G UW (Verizon): RP1A.200720.012.G981VSQU2DUI2

Again, not big updates, but device owners will get updated security patches and performance improvements of some kind. We'll always take fresh updates, right? To grab them, head into Settings>System updates>Check for system updates.

Fresh Galaxy S22 Ultra Render: That's a Bit Better, Samsung

Tim — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 12:49:31 +0000

Let me start this post by saying that when we post 3rd-party renders of unannounced devices, know that what we see can always change. That could be the case for the Galaxy S22 Ultra, whose initial renders weren't greeted with a ton of enthusiasm from the Android community. After all, it was just a Galaxy Note 10 with a funky camera layout. Thanks to yet another round of renders, we're getting an updated look at what we might expect from this upcoming device. As we can see in these new renders (new design posted above), there could be a big difference with regard to the camera housing from what we saw originally (below) to what we get when the phone is launched. The housing could be separated or combined into a single piece. At this moment, no Samsung insider can confirm which design is more accurate, but at least we know Samsung is working with a few options. These renders also show the device in a very nice dark red color, though, this is likely an artistic choice and not something we as consumers should look forward to. I'd be very happy with it, but Samsung has a history of disappointing me when it comes to color options. What do you think? Do you want the new separated look or do you like the original combined look? Personally, I'd opt for this new separated option. It looks cleaner to me. // @OnLeaks

Amazon's New Hardware Includes Wall-Mountable Echo Display, $60 Smart Thermostat

Tim — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 10:59:20 +0000

Like every past year, Amazon spent all morning announcing and detailing a ton of new products spread over multiple categories. We have drones that will fly around your home, big screens that will help control your smart home, nightmare-inducing robots that watch you as your sleep, as well as an inexpensive smart thermostat that I foresee many folks being interested in. I'm going to go ahead and list all of the new stuff and give a brief rundown of what it's about. If there's a link for pre-ordering, I will include it. Have fun browsing the new goodies!

Ring Security Drone (Pictured Above)

Remember this thing? Yup, it has arrived, with Ring opening up an invite system to purchase the $249 Always Home Cam drone that will fly around your house and ensure your belongings are safe. So freakin' awesome. As far as I can tell, you'll likely need to be deep into Ring's security ecosystem and signed up for its subscription service in order to be selected for this early release, but hey, give it a shot. I know I did, even though my dogs certainly won't appreciate it. We have more Always Home Cam details here, as it was first detailed last year. Request Invitation Here

Echo Show 15

The $249 Echo Show 15 device, designed to be a smart home control hub, capable of viewing Ring video feeds, control lights and appliances, plus much more. Amazon notes that it's not a requirement to mount the display, but if you do, you can do so either vertically or horizontally. It's currently listed as Coming Soon on Amazon, so if you're interested, sign up to be notified of its release. Amazon Link

Amazon Astro

Astro, Amazon's roaming Alexa-powered device designed to protect your home and help you complete limited tasks. While awesome, this robot won't be cheap costing $1449 once the special entry price of $999 is expired. Amazon says that Astro uses advanced navigation technology to find its way around your home and go where you need it. "When you're not using Astro, it will hang out close by at the ready," and additionally you can, "Remotely send Astro to check on specific rooms, people, or things. Plus, get alerts if Astro detects an unrecognized person or certain sounds when you're away." It's a sweet gadget, but not for everyone. Again, another product my dogs wouldn't appreciate. It's listed as Coming Soon on Amazon, so sign up if you're interested. Amazon Link

Halo View, Fitness, and Nutrition

Fitness-focused folks can look forward to a new suite of health-related goodies from Amazon, which include the Halo View fitness tracker ($79), plus two new membership AI-powered services called Halo Fitness and Halo Nutrition. The Halo View features an AMOLED display, capable of tracking sleep, blood oxygen levels, activity, as well as deliver select notifications. Halo Fitness Rundown

At launch, Halo members can choose from cardio, strength, yoga, outdoor, and mobility classes, with new content rolling out regularly. Integration with Halo View or Halo Band allows members to see real time fitness metrics such as heart rate and heart rate intensity zone as an on-display overlay, so they can train smarter and optimize every workout.

Halo Nutrition Rundown

Halo Nutrition features personalized, time-saving tools to discover delicious, nutrient-rich recipes or plan out a week of healthful eating. Members can customize their experience to account for specific allergies and preferences, build a tailored meal plan, or select from one of seven pre-curated menus: classic, keto, Mediterranean, Nordic, paleo, vegan, and vegetarian. Members can also browse a library of more than 500 recipes from partners including WW, Lifesum, and Whole Foods Market, and easily add ingredients and groceries they need for their meal plan to their existing Alexa Shopping list—streamlining all grocery needs into one place.

Halo View is currently listed as Coming Soon, while Halo Fitness will start rolling out to members in the Halo app later this year, with the personalized fitness metrics coming next year. Amazon also says Halo Nutrition will be available in January 2022. Both Halo Fitness and Halo Nutrition are included as part of the Halo membership. Amazon Link

Blink Video Doorbell

There's a new video doorbell from Blink, offering 1080p video feeds, infrared night vision, and two-way audio. You can use the doorbell in a wired mode or wireless mode, with wired users able to pair it with existing chimes. The camera is available for $50, up for pre-order right now. Additionally, there are new accessories from Blink, including a Blink Floodlight Camera and Blink Solar Panel Mount, both available for pre-order today. The Blink Floodlight Camera mount starts at $39.99 and customers can also get a Blink Floodlight Camera bundle with Blink Outdoor starting at $139.98. The Blink Solar Panel Mount bundled with Blink Outdoor will start at $129.98. Lots of options to choose from. Amazon Link

Smart Thermostat

Amazon is ready to take on Nest and everyone else with a new smart thermostat. Priced at only $60, it's capable of doing most everything any other smart thermostat can do. You can control it from your smart device, save money thanks to intelligent power usage, and enjoy easy installation. If you have been waiting for a more inexpensive option over Nest or ecobee, this could be a good buy for you. Amazon Link Here's a 60 second video showcasing all of the new goodies. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOYctKrANxQ&ab_channel=AmazonNews

Amazon Made a $1,450 Robot for Your House Called "Astro"

Kellen — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 10:51:11 +0000

Amazon hosted its annual hardware event today, where they show off new Echo devices, talk a lot about Alexa, and let their brands like Ring and Eero reveal all that they've been working on. They almost always show off a bonus item, though, one that is a bit out of the box and typically grabs some headlines from those both excited and those concerned. We got that with Amazon Astro. Amazon Astro is a freakin' robot, a household one, that can monitor your house like a security pet, while also doing some other useful Alexa tasks. As you can see here, Astro is a cute little robot with wheels, a head display (10", 1280x800) that moves around, a slot in the back for beers or other junk, a bunch of sensors to keep it from running into people/stuff/dogs, and cameras. Because of its ability to navigate your home, you can use Astro to monitor things while you are out of the house, but it could also run errands from one room to the next if you don't feel like shouting at your significant other.

Using cameras and sensors, Astro could be a great video chatting option for kids, a device that can track you around the house as a bit of a personal assistant, or be used as a remote monitoring tool for those providing care for others. The cameras on Astro can create Visual IDs to recognize you and others as a part of its smart system, so you can tell it to remind a specific person to do something and it should hold that reminder until it sees them. Astro also has a periscope camera to allow it to run nightly monitoring sessions around your house to look for activity. It'll let you know if it hears something, detects smoke or carbon monoxide, or if it sees an unrecognizable face. Just being honest here, but this is nightmare fuel here, with a robot cruising around your house in the dark with a periscope camera out. But cool too! Right?

Of course, since the privacy alarms are screaming in your head right now, know that there is a big privacy button on top that will turn off the mics, cameras, and motion. But look, if you are interested in Astro, you probably already realize that privacy is something you are giving up on some level to own one and are clearly OK with that. Oh, Astro can dance too, access Alexa for information or controlling your smart home, and I'd imagine can show you content on its screen, rather than just those innocent eyes and video feeds. Want to buy an Astro? Amazon is letting you request one today through an invite-only system. If selected, you'll pay $999 for it as a part of an introductory offer. At some point after that offer, the price will jump to $1,449.99. Request an invite to Amazon Astro here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sj1t3msy8dc

Android 12.1 for Foldables Gets an Early Preview

Kellen — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 08:46:18 +0000

The assumption today, based on all sorts of reported evidence, is that Google will release a point update to Android 12 in the very near future, likely as a way to welcome in additional foldable support that could see the light first on a Pixel foldable device. We don't yet have an official confirmation on what Google will call this release, but Android 12.1 seems like a pretty obvious choice. The folks at XDA say they've been given access by a source to an unreleased Android 12.1 build and have taken the time to dive in and see what's new. In their findings, there are a number of changes that would only show through on a foldable device, like a Pixel Fold or Pixel "Passport." Most of what they've found so far appears to be pretty standard or expected foldable OS changes. For example, you'll find a lockscreen separation with the clock on one side and notifications on the other. The notification area could be used to show both quick settings and notifications, using each side. The settings menu could also use the extra space as sort of a tiered or expanded menu system. The app switcher will you show you a mix of large and small previews of recent apps, depending on which was most recently used. Here are a couple of looks at those items:

Again, all pretty standard foldable or big screen stuff here, but with Android 12.1, this should be the most polished or finished version of Google's foldable ideas, especially if they plan to bring it to devices, including their first Pixel foldable. We're assuming that Android 12 will hit stable next week for Pixel phones, followed by a launch of the Pixel 6 line-up. Once that happens, I think it's safe for all to start a countdown as to when we'll learn more about Android 12.1.

GIVEAWAY: Win 1 of 50 AUKEY Chargers to Celebrate the Pixel 6, Which Doesn't Come With a Charger

Tim — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 09:55:16 +0000

Update: Winners selected! If a charger arrives at your doorstep, congratulations! Thank you to all who entered and thank you again to AUKEY!

Google's Pixel 6 is inbound, and as we already know, the phone does not come with a charger in the box. This is important to note because the phone's support for quickened charging speed is also confirmed, so a lot of buyers will likely need to purchase a new wall charger in order to take advantage. We here at Droid Life aren't fans of that, so we're teaming up with our friends at AUKEY to offer 50 (yes, 5-0!) Omnia wall chargers that support charging speeds of up to 65W. The charger that is up for grabs is the Omnia Duo 65W Dual-Port Charger with Dynamic Detect and Power Delivery, usually priced at $46 on their website. AUKEY's Omnia chargers are faster and lighter, thanks to their GaN IC (gallium nitride integrated circuit) that combines several power functions into a single GaN chip. This technology increases performance, efficiency, and more. Most importantly, the charger should be able to rapidly charge any upcoming Pixel devices, as well as fast charge any Samsung devices. They're great little chargers. If you find yourself having bad luck with giveaways, AUKEY has also extended an exclusive coupon code to Droid Life readers. The coupon code is good for $20 off your purchase of an Omnia Duo 65W charger, bringing the price down to just $25. If you're someone who plans to buy a Pixel 6 and needs the increased juice or you want a fancy new charger for your existing device, I highly recommend them. AUKEY's Omnia line of chargers are what I use for my MacBook Pro and my smart devices.

AUKEY Store Link (Use code "DROIDLIFE" at checkout for $20 off!)

How to Enter the Giveaway

Due to how many chargers we have to give away, we'll do things a bit different from how we normally do. With this giveaway, follow the Google Forms link below and enter your name and shipping address. Only one entry per person, please. Duplicate entries will be removed. At the end of the collection period (Friday at 10AM Pacific), we'll randomly select 50 winners and will ship out the charger to you automatically. You won't receive an email or message declaring you a winner, as that would be a lot of work for us. We're only a 2-man team after all. Essentially, 50 winners will receive a surprise from AUKEY in their mailbox and that will be fun. As a very important note, at the end of the giveaway, we will delete any and all collected shipping information. Does that all make sense? Good! Follow the link below and good luck!

Enter to Win Here

Huge shoutout to AUKEY for providing the 50 chargers and the exclusive discount code for Droid Life readers!

Report: Galaxy S21 FE Launch Now Officially in Question

Tim — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 08:53:00 +0000

According to a report out of South Korea, the launch of the Galaxy S21 FE is in question at Samsung, with the manufacturer cancelling an announcement event for the device that was said to take place in mid-October. If you've been following this device, you'll know this isn't the first time we've written this same thing, with doubt being sowed initially back in June. In a recent statement attributed to a Samsung official, the company said, "We canceled the Galaxy S21 FE online unpack, which was planned for mid-October. We are reviewing the smartphone launch itself." In a somewhat interesting twist, while the overall chip shortage may be to blame for this cancellation, it appears that Samsung's chip shortage may actually relate to how well Samsung's line of new foldables are selling. According to the source of this information, with the latest Galaxy Z foldables using the same Snapdragon 888 as the Galaxy S21 FE, Samsung doesn't have enough chips for everything it wants to make and sell. It's reported that Galaxy Z Flip 3 production can't keep up with orders, so instead of spreading itself too thin, it looks like the Galaxy S21 FE will simply be axed. Is it too late for Samsung to use a different chipset altogether? Most likely. I missed out on the Galaxy S20 FE, so I was looking quite forward to the S21 FE. I suppose that may not be happening now. Crap. // DDaily

Wear OS 2 Watches Get Access to New YouTube Music App

Kellen — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 08:00:10 +0000

Just as Samsung and Google were launching the Galaxy Watch 4 and Wear OS 3 together, Google announced that a bunch of its apps, as well as some third party regulars, were getting big updates to support the new version of its wearable OS. Unfortunately, that news also included a side note about the majority of the apps not coming to Wear OS 2 watches, some of which seem more than capable. This week, Google is righting one of those wrongs and will make the new YouTube Music Wear OS app available to the Fossil Gen 6, TicWatch E3, and TicWatch Pro 3. With YouTube Music on the wrist and a subscription to YouTube Music Premium, your Snapdragon Wear 4100-powered watch will be able to download music for offline playback while on the go, choose from thousands of playlists and millions of songs, and utilize Smart Downloads, to refresh songs when connected to WiFi. Oh, you don't own one of those high-end 4100 watches? Google tells us that more Wear OS 2 devices will get access to YouTube Music "later this year." We'll try to let you know once that happens.

YouTube TV Warns It Could Lose NBC, Which Means a Price Drop for You

Kellen — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 17:29:17 +0000

YouTube TV and NBC Universal are quickly approaching the end of their contract and that could mean big changes to your channel line-up, should they not reach agreement later this week. As it stands, without a deal, NBC and YouTube TV will part ways leading to a discount and loss of channels for subscribers. In a blog post this evening, YouTube TV tried to explain its side of the story as they continue negotiating with NBC Universal (NBCU). From their perspective, they "haven't yet been able to reach an equitable agreement" and claim to only be asking "that NBCU treats YouTube TV like any other TV provider." Their hope is that "NBCU offers [them] equitable terms" and then they'll renew their agreement. According to Variety, NBCU is asking Google to pay higher rates and Google is unwilling to do that. What happens if they don't reach an agreement over the coming days? Their current deal with NBC apparently ends this Thursday, September 30, and should it expire without a new deal in place, all of NBCU's channels will exit the platform. If that happens, YouTube TV says that a $10 price decrease will arrive, dropping the monthly price of YouTube TV from $64.99/mo to $54.99/mo. Losing NBC would mean no more NBC, MSNBC, CNBC, Bravo, E!, Golf Channel, USA, Oxygen, Syfy, Olympic Channel, Universal Kids, Telemundo, and Universo. It could also mean a loss of local NBC affiliates you may watch for local news and sports broadcasts. Obviously, this would be a massive loss to YouTube TV that would make it very hard to stick with. Those channels are all very important to a proper cable line-up, especially NBC and local affiliates. Hell, I'm definitely out if I can't watch Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. I gotta know what's going to happen to Erika. We'll try to keep you updated, but with only 4 days to go, things aren't looking great.

Poll: Foldables, Do You Care About Them Yet?

Kellen — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 13:14:36 +0000

Foldables were supposed to be the next big thing, the evolution of the smartphone or personal computer into a device that could do more while remaining portable. Samsung is very much leading the charge for them, Huawei dabbled in the idea for a couple of minutes, others created one-offs, and now there are rumors that Google has not one, but two, Pixel foldables on the way. We're likely still early in the idea of foldables, but that doesn't mean we haven't seen enough to be able to form opinions on them. As readers here know, I was a huge fan of the Galaxy Z Fold 2, the first foldable from Samsung that felt as close to being finished as any. It was a device that struck me at the perfect time, where most of us were forced to hangout at home the majority of our days and spend far too much time on a couch. We dubbed the Fold 2 the "ultimate couch phone" because of the way it fit into our lives last year. But now it's 2021, I'm fresh off reviewing the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and also from spending a couple of weeks with the Galaxy Z Flip 3, and I don't think foldables are for me. My tune has changed, for sure. My problem with foldables is that they currently come in two sizes: big ass phone-to-tablet and mini-flip phone. Both have big enough flaws in their ideas that I can't stick with either for a meaningful amount of time. The Z Fold 3, which falls into that phone-to-tablet category, is too big and heavy for those not wanting to spend the rest of life at home. The Z Flip 3, while portable and refined and cute has hell, constantly needs to be flipped open for use, and that's just not that fun to do 50 times per day. Couple those usage issues with sky high prices, a need for camera improvements, and still some worry over durability, and yeah, they make for a tough sell. That's me, though! What this post is really about is you - have you decided to care about foldables yet? Have you already given up on the idea or are you waiting patiently to see where they lead to? Or are you really just waiting for that Pixel foldable? [poll id="575"]

Samsung September Updates: It's a Month End Wave of Galaxy

Kellen — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 09:31:37 +0000

The Samsung update situation has been quiet this month for some reason. We typically see a trickle out of updates to their various devices throughout a month, but for September, we've been waiting and waiting. It looks like the final week will be the week that your Galaxy device gets the latest Android patch. For now, we are seeing the Samsung Galaxy S20+ and Galaxy S20 Ultra pick-up builds G986USQS2DUI1 and G988USQS2DUI1, with the September Android build. The Galaxy Z Fold 2 is also getting F916USQS2EUH9, while the Galaxy S20 FE picked up build G781VSQU5DUI1 a week ago.

UPDATE: Alright, Verizon is just doing it all in one day it seems. We have all the devices and builds for you below.

Full new software versions:

Galaxy S20+: RP1A.200720.012.G986USQS2DUI1
Galaxy S20 Ultra: RP1A.200720.012.G988USQS2DUI1
Galaxy S20 FE: RP1A.200720.012.G781VSQU5DUI1
Galaxy S10: RP1A.200720.012.G973USQS6GUI2
Galaxy S10+: RP1A.200720.012.G975USQS6GUI2
Galaxy S10e: RP1A.200720.012.G970USQS6GUI2
Galaxy Z Fold 2: RP1A.200720.012.F916USQS2EUH9
Galaxy Note 10: RP1A.200720.012.N970USQS7FUH9
Galaxy Note 10+: RP1A.200720.012.N970USQS7FUH9
Galaxy Note 20: RP1A.200720.012.N986USQS2DUI4
Galaxy Note 20 Ultra: RP1A.200720.012.N986USQS2DUI4

None of these updates are major, according to changelogs. All they are providing is "the most up to date Android security patches on your device." What I'm saying is that you aren't getting Android 12 or One UI 4 or new camera features or performance improvements. We're just killing time until those things are ready. To check for each update, head into Settings>System updates>Check for system updates. The updates should be available. // Verizon [2]

Galaxy S22 Ultra Renders Show a Galaxy Note 10 With Funky Camera Housing, S Pen Slot

Tim — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 09:18:54 +0000

I like funky designs, as evidenced by my excitement for the Pixel 6 lineup. However, the jury is still out on these new Galaxy S22 Ultra renders, provided to citizens of the internet by @OnLeaks, who has a reputable history of providing accurate 3rd-party looks at upcoming devices well ahead of their official unveiling. We're likely months away from the Galaxy S22 lineup being announced, but here we are in late September with our first potential look at the S22 Ultra. It's crazy times we're living in. In these renders, we get a full 360-degree look at the device, which to me, looks just like a Galaxy Note 10 -- S Pen slot included! -- but with a pretty funky quad rear camera housing attached to the backside. By funky, I mean it looks kinda cool, but I'm a big fan of symmetry and I'm not getting that from this housing design. I'm getting wonky Tetris vibes. Here are a few more renders,

For a complete look at this reported Galaxy S22 Ultra from all angles, check out the video below. Then feel free to share your thoughts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mai-o0J77Y0&ab_channel=Digit // digit

New Pixel 6 Pro Camera Modes and Features Detailed

Tim — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 08:50:20 +0000

It's expected that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are big time upgrades in the camera department, not just in the hardware, but new software features as well. Thanks to the latest report, it's looking like the Pixel 6 lineup will have quite a few new features to play with, and honestly, I'm getting a little impatient. Thanks to our good friends at XDA, who appear to know someone with a Pixel 6 Pro, we've had a nice, slow leak of pretty much all of the new things we should expect from the device. This week, we're talking cameras. On the backside, the Pixel 6 Pro has a 50-megapixel Samsung-made GN1 camera, accompanied by a 12-megapixel ultra wide angle (IMX386) and 48-megapixel 4x telephoto camera (IMX586), both developed by Sony. On the front, there's a 12-megapixel Sony IMX 663 selfie camera. For modes, it's detailed that buyers can possibly look forward to new manual controls for white balance adjustment (still unknown if this will stay in development or not), a Magic Eraser feature which may or may not be linked to Google's unreleased Object Removal tool for Google Photos, Face Deblur which has been actually detailed by Google itself, Scene Lock (benefits unknown at this time), Bluetooth microphone support, Motion Blur, a hardware accelerated "nima aesthetic" (possibly related to the existing Top Shot feature), Baby Mode, plus a few other miscellaneous inclusions. Of course, these new things pair with existing modes inside of Google Camera, including Astrophotography and all of that sweet jazz.

Pixel 7 Codename?

Interestingly, inside of the code that XDA poured over to get the above information, mention of 2022's Pixel is spotted, with the assumedly named Pixel 7 carrying a codename of pipit. Pipits are extremely common birds, which is noteworthy as both the Pixel 6 (Oriole) and Pixel 6 Pro (Raven) carry bird codenames, too. This is believed to help distinguish Qualcomm-powered Google devices (fish codenames) from new in-house silicon-powered devices (bird names). We'll definitely keep you posted on any additional Pixel 7 findings, but for now, let's keep our focus on 2021's Pixel devices that haven't yet released. I can only handle so much waiting, you know? // XDA

Surface Duo Should Get Android 11 This Year

Kellen — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 11:25:30 +0000

I was going to spend this post dunking on the Microsoft Surface Duo (again), a flawed product that will soon be replaced by the Surface Duo 2, but I'm tired of dunking on it. You all know how bad it is. So let's instead make this quick and talk about the software update it should have seen a year ago that may now arrive before the calendar flips to 2022. Microsoft has told The Verge that they are "working to bring Android 11 to existing customers before the end of this year." Yes, that says "Android 11" even as Google is counting down the final hours until they release stable Android 12. Microsoft's original Surface Duo is still running Android 10, an operating system that is two years old. Who knows what has taken Microsoft this long. All I know is that you shouldn't care anymore about the software on the Surface Duo, unless you are considering a Surface Duo 2. And if you are considering the new, mostly great looking Duo 2, prepare mentally beforehand for the chance that while it runs Android 11 out of the box, Android 12 will have already been released weeks prior to Google's Pixel phones and may not hit your $1,500 Duo 2 for a year or more. OK, that's all. The Microsoft Surface Duo was and is still bad.

This is a Really Good Galaxy Watch 4 + Wireless Charger Bundle Deal ($229+!)

Tim — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 10:44:33 +0000

Heads up for anyone looking to get the best Wear OS experience currently on the market. For a limited time, you can snag a Galaxy Watch 4 or Galaxy Watch 4 Classic + wireless charger bundle at $80 off the usual price. The bundle includes the watch itself, as well as a wireless charger that charges both the watch and a smartphone.

Reviews: Galaxy Watch 4 | Galaxy Watch 4 Classic

At $80 off, regardless of the model or size you choose, the price starts at just $229 for a 40mm Watch 4. If you were merely buying a Galaxy Watch 4 all by itself, the price is $249. That means this deal is stellar and you'd be silly to buy any other Android-powered watch currently on the market. If you want the big dog, the Watch 4 Classic at 46mm, the price is down to $359. Still, completely reasonable. If you've been on the fence, get off of the fence and take advantage of this. Amazon Links: Galaxy Watch 4 Bundle | Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Bundle

Google Announces a Ton of Android Auto Changes, Honda Joins Android Automotive Family

Tim — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 09:00:49 +0000

Google announced a ton of Android Auto-related news this morning, including improvements for Google Assistant's driving mode, Android Auto itself, as well as shared that Honda is entering the 21st century with the inclusion of Android Automotive in upcoming vehicles. For Google Assistant's driving mode, users will discover an entirely updated dashboard UI, offering easy to view cards for navigation, music, messages, and more. To enter said dashboard, you'll simply say, "Ok Google, let's drive." Check out the new dashboard GIF below. It looks pretty slick.

Google details that Driving Mode will be the "primary experience" for Android phones going forward and will fully roll out in the next few weeks for Android phones in English (US, Australia, Canada, Ireland, India, Singapore and U.K.), German, Spanish (Spain, Mexico), French and Italian.

Android Auto Improvements

For Android Auto in general, Google says that users will now see music, news, and podcast recommendations from Google Assistant, as well as be able to set which app launches whenever Android Auto starts. Furthermore, users can now access games from GameSnacks right from a the car’s display while they're parked. That'll make killing time in the car a bit easier, I suppose.

Additionally, dual-SIM Android phone users will now be able to choose which SIM card to use when making calls through Android Auto, and on top of that, Android Auto will support a “Work profile,” which lets you see upcoming work meetings and messages on your car’s display.

Google also notes a pretty sweet feature for gas stations.

When it’s time to fill up at the gas station, you can now put away your credit card or cash and say, “Hey Google, pay for gas” on Android Auto or from your Android phone. Select your pump number and complete contactless payment with Google Pay. This will be available at over 32,500 gas stations across the U.S. starting with Exxon and Mobil, Conoco, Phillips 66 and 76 stations.

Waze Improvements, Too

Waze, the only good option for navigation on Android besides Google Maps, will also see big improvements on the Android Auto platform. According to the press release, Waze on Android Auto is getting a refresh to, "create a more streamlined navigation experience." The new design includes touchpad support, a night mode, lane guidance support, and puts the map and directions at the forefront of the UI so other elements aren’t in the way.

Honda Gets Android Automotive

Announced this morning, Honda is joining the Android Automotive family. You'll find Android Automotive on select 2022 Honda vehicles and beyond.

// Google

13 New Features are Coming to Your Android Phone

Kellen — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 09:00:11 +0000

Just because you own an Android phone that may not be on the same version of Android as your friend, the Pixel owner, doesn't mean you both can't enjoy new platform features together. Today, Google announced 13 new goodies that'll come to Android starting as early as today that most of you can take advantage of. It's a long list, so let's dive in to what's new to Android.

Google TV remote!

Back at Google I/O in May, Google announced that a new remote would come to all Android phones as a part of the new Google TV app. The remote would allow you to power on your TV, navigate through your favorite shows, and use your phone's keyboard to type in TV apps, you know, to login more efficiently. Look for a new Quick Settings tile that will allow you to use the new remote (probably after an app update). Additionally, Google says they are bringing the Google TV app to 14 more countries.

Google Assistant new Reminders hub

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FHgrv68cwY Google is pushing out a new Reminders hub as a place for you to manage all of your reminders in a single place. A simple, "Hey Google, open my reminders" command in Google Assistant will open the new hub, where you'll find not only your recurring reminders, but suggestions for others you may not have already thought of. Some of the suggestions I'm seeing are reminders to call my family every Friday evening, do the dishes (lol), and workout, in case you were wondering.

Gboard power copying

Google is adding several new features to Gboard that big copy-pasters are going to love. For one, if you copy text that includes multiple bits of info, like phone numbers, email addresses, and URLs, Gboard can automatically extract and separate them into multiple pasting options (!). That should make it incredibly easy to copy big blocks of text and then only paste the stuff you want. Gboard is also getting 1,500 new Emoji Kitchen stickers (later this fall) and suggestions to send a screenshot you may have just taken when in a messaging app. Finally, another Pixel-Exclusive feature, Smart Compose, is now available for Android 11+ phones. Smart Compose lets you complete sentences with just a swipe on suggested text. It's ridiculously handy.

Google Photos locked folder

Previously a Pixel-exclusive feature, everyone with an Android 6+ phone can now store photos in the Locked Folder in Google Photos. This is a password-protected area to hide photos and videos away that won't show up in your regular photo feed.

Nearby Share visibility

Google's Nearby Share feature that lets you quickly send files between nearby devices, is getting improved visibility settings, where you can choose to be visible to everyone, your contacts, or no one.

Heads-up to more phones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZU1JELXL9rs&t=2s In April of this year, Google's Pixel phones got a new Digital Wellbeing feature called "Heads Up" that tried to prevent you from walking into traffic while using your phone. It would gently remind you, as you walked down the street while using your phone, that using your phone while walking down the street could be dangerous. Going forward, this Heads Up feature will be available to everyone running Android 9+ devices.

So much Android Auto!

Android Auto is getting several new features, and we've got a separate post about it here. But for those who want the quick version, here's what you are getting:

Waze on Android Auto is getting a big refresh with navigation "even more to the forefront"
Google Assistant driving mode has a new dashboard to love (told you about this here)
Personalized recommendations of music, news, and podcast from Google Assistant
When parked, you can play freakin' games now, through GameSnacks
Your Google work profiles are now supported (!)
Dual-SIM phone users, you'll soon be able to tell Android Auto which SIM to make calls from
Google Pay and Android Auto will soon let you pay for gas at 32,500 gas stations in the US just by using your voice

The coolest Accessibility features

Remember a few weeks ago when we told you about Android 12's new feature that would let you control your phone using facial gestures? Those "Camera Switches" are now official and really do let you navigate and control your phone by looking right/left/up, smiling, raising eyebrows, and opening your mouth. Google is also launching Project Activate, a new app that uses facial gestures to "quickly activate customized actions." That could mean a gesture that tells your phone to speak a preset phrase, send a text, or make a phone call. To download Project Activate and get started, download it from Google Play. And finally, Lookout, the app from 2019 that helps identify objects for blind or visually impaired users, can now read handwritten and printed text for Latin-based language. Google is also adding Euro and Indian Rupee recognition within Currency mode. To dive deeper into these new Accessibility features, checkout Google's blog post. Google didn't put many dates or release info for any of this new stuff, soooooo be the lookout for it all. I'm sorry, I wish I had more specific timeline for you. // Google

Android 12's Wallpaper Theming Could Come to Non-Pixel Phones in Next Release

Kellen — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 16:08:53 +0000

One of the coolest new Android features to arrive in recent years is without a doubt the wallpaper theming that was first teased at Google I/O and then arrived in Android 12 Beta 2. It brings a level of personalization to your phone that is forever changing, since it changes system highlights and select apps using colors in the wallpaper you have chosen. Our understanding of this wallpaper theming (Material You Dynamic Color) is that Google's Pixel phones had an exclusive on it at first, with the possibility of others having access down the road. According to information discovered by developer kdrag0n and XDA, Google could is apparently opening it up for others with the release of Android 12-sv2 or what may end up being Android 12.1. We haven't talked about this yet, but Android 12 sv2 (or Android 12.1) is thought to be the next version of Android before we get to Android 13. It may launch with the Pixel 6, a few months after that, or a year from now for all we know, but this would be the first time in years that they've pushed out a point update to an Android version. It's worth talking about, especially now that we believe it'll bring with it noteworthy features. Google has supposedly added "monet," which is the codename for Android 12's wallpaper theming, to AOSP for Android 12.1, giving other OEMs the chance to use it on their own phones. That means it'll be open-sourced for others to use if they want to dive into the evolution of Android theming. That could mean Samsung adding wallpaper-based system colors to a future version of One UI or OnePlus' new unified Android skin getting Android 12's most fun feature. The timing of all of this is still very much up in the air. Not only is Android 12 not stable yet, Google hasn't publicly acknowledged that there is an Android 12.1 or what to expect from it. At this point, they would need to release that and then give OEMs time to build "monet" into their own skins using it. Still, this is pretty exciting news for non-Pixel phone fans.

T-Mobile's 5G-Powered Home Internet Expands to 51 More Markets

Tim — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 10:09:49 +0000

T-Mobile's Home Internet service expanded into 51 additional markets this week, bringing the total up to something silly like 600+. If you want your home web browsing and streaming powered by T-Mobile's 5G network, then this service is for you. As an ISP, Home Internet from T-Mo makes plenty of sense. There's a flat $50/month fee (which includes $10 off with AutoPay) for access, no cost for the equipment, and there's no install service required as it's purely a 5G modem that plugs into your home's power outlet and then distributes WiFi into your home. For speeds, T-Mobile details averages of anywhere in excess of 100Mbps for downloads and 25Mbps for uploads. Below you can view all of the new markets, all of which are in either Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas.

Florida

Arcadia
Cape Coral-Fort Myers
Clewiston
Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach
Gainesville
Jacksonville
Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach
North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton
Ocala
Okeechobee
Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford
Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville
Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent
Punta Gorda
Sebastian-Vero Beach
Sebring-Avon Park
Tallahassee
Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater
The Villages

Georgia

Albany
Athens-Clarke County
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta
Columbus
Cordele
Cornelia
Dalton
Dublin
Gainesville
Jefferson
Moultrie
St. Marys
Summerville
Warner Robins

North Carolina

Albemarle
Asheville
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia
Durham-Chapel Hill
Fayetteville
Greensboro-High Point
Kill Devil Hills
Mount Airy
North Wilkesboro
Raleigh-Cary
Sanford

South Carolina

Columbia
Greenville-Anderson
Hilton Head Island-Bluffton
Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach
Newberry
Spartanburg
Sumter

// T-Mobile

Microsoft's Surface Duo 2 Looks Great, Hopefully It Gets Software Updates

Kellen — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 09:56:24 +0000

Microsoft announced their new Surface Duo 2 today, and dammit, it looks pretty good. I think they fixed just about everything I had complaints about, plus they improved the device in a number of areas and tossed in some clever new tricks. That said, if they don't commit to real updates, then it's all for nothing. The new Microsoft Surface Duo 2 comes in Glacier (white) or Obsidian (Black) colors now and costs $1,499.99. It's still a very expensive, two-screened device, but like I just said, Microsoft truly did try to address almost all of the problems from the original, bad Surface Duo.

Surface Duo 2 specs

For specs, you are looking at two 5.8" AMOLED displays (1344x1892) that stretch to 8.3" (2688x1892) when combined. Those displays now offer a 90Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass Victus protection. You also get a much larger 4449mAh battery with 23W fast charging, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, 128/256/512GB storage options, fingerprint reader (in power button again), 8GB RAM, stereo speakers, a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, and a Snapdragon 888 powering it all with 5G. For cameras, we now have a 12MP selfie shooter, along with a real rear camera setup that's made up of wide (12MP, f/1.7, OIS), telephoto (12MP, f/2.4, OIS), and ultra-wide (16MP, f/2.2) lenses. You can shoot at 4K/60, use auto-HDR, find a dedicated night photography mode, and tweak lots of controls in places like Portrait mode. We don't know how good any of this will be, but the specs alone should lead to an improvement over last year's camera, which we dubbed the worst we've ever used. Oh yeah, they added f*cking NFC this time. So that's cool. See, they really did add in all the stuff we wanted last year, although we would have loved to see more RAM on a device meant for productivity and multi-tasking between two displays.

The cool new Surface Duo 2 stuff!

Alright, obviously we don't get excited for stuff simply based on specs, and Microsoft needed to do a lot more than just improve specs to make the Surface Duo 2 interesting. I think they've mostly done that. The easiest things to point out are the real camera setup, the NFC, 5G, better displays, stereo speakers, etc. However, the addition of the Surface Pen being able to attach to the device, subtle curves to the inside edges of the two displays to make them look closer together, and this magic new exposed hinge system, are quite cool. One of those most annoying things about the original Surface Duo was the fact that you had no idea what was going on with your phone at any time because there was no cover display. You had to actively open it to see notifications, missed calls, that sort of thing. With Surface Duo 2, Microsoft used the curved inner edge of the displays to be able to show a sliver of display when the phone is closed up. This presents a display bar that can not only show you the time, it'll show you notifications, charging meter, light up with calls, and show you current volume. While not a cover display, it's similar to what you get with Samsung's Z Flip 3, and we'll take it.

Overall, Microsoft appears to have heard the complaints and not only fixed those, they added some useful new features as well that we weren't necessarily expecting.

Software...

Hardware coolness aside, Microsoft really didn't talk much about software on the Surface Duo 2 and that should worry you. The original Surface Duo certainly received regular monthly security patches and Microsoft tried its best to fix software bugs and tweak the experience here and there, but the fact that the $1,400 device still sits on Android 10 today is pathetic. Android 12 is about to launch and the original Duo hasn't even hit Android 11. With the Surface Duo 2, Microsoft is at least starting out at Android 11, but we have no idea what the story is for Android 12. My guess is that they'll confirm the device will receive it, we just don't know when. You shouldn't go into this device expecting it any time soon either. If anything, be pleasantly surprised if it shows up before this phone reaches the year-old mark, since that's the schedule we have going at the moment. On a related note, we also still haven't seen any word from Microsoft if other app makers will build apps out to take advantage of two screens. The Surface Duo 2 sales page shows off two apps working at the same time and mentions all of their own apps, but nothing about say, Google apps like Gmail. That may be fine for those fully invested in Microsoft's ecosystem, but not so much for those of us who aren't.

When can you buy Surface Duo 2?

The new Surface Duo 2 is up for pre-order now at Microsoft's store for $1,499.99. It should arrive by October 20.

Pre-order Microsoft Surface Duo 2

YouTube TV Offers Free Access to NFL RedZone, HBO Max, and Cinemax This Weekend

Tim — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 08:51:09 +0000

Starting tomorrow and through the weekend, YouTube TV subscribers are getting complimentary access to three of the best things around. That's right, we're talking free HBO Max, NFL RedZone, and Cinemax. YouTube TV is introducing this preview weekend, assumingly in hopes that you might love the services enough to add them permanently to your channel lineup. And why wouldn't they? These services, especially HBO Max, account for a large portion of the best content currently available anywhere. For example, HBO Max has Mare of Easttown, Chernobyl, Barry, The Night Of, plus much more. For Cinemax, plenty of sweet movies are on there, so a free weekend isn't something anyone should complain about it. I feel dumb for trying to convince anyone to like these things. HBO Max and RedZone kick ass. If you think differently, I'm throwing these hands. Go enjoy yourselves, YouTube TV subscribers. After going through price hike after price hike, dammit, we've earned this free weekend of joy. // @YouTubeTV

Material You UI Elements Hit Google Messages, Podcasts

Kellen — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 08:05:43 +0000

Google is pushing hard to get the majority of its apps ready for Android 12's upcoming release, and that means most are seeing Material You updates with UI changes to reflect the new design language. If you own a Google Pixel phone, this means a lot of fun colors are popping up in places you might find surprising. Today, we have updates hitting both Google Messages and Google Podcasts. The Google Podcasts update is a full Material You makeover, while Google Messages is only part-way there. Above, I've showcased Podcasts, with it presenting a lot of green colors in the navigation area, as well as throughout button and icon items in different pages. The app will look familiar, it's just more colorful on Pixel phones. To get this update, I believe you'll need the latest Google app and a server-side switch from Google. The Podcasts app, as far as I know, is just a shell that is powered by the Google app. As for Google Messages, in the latest beta (v9.7.032), we're seeing some changes roll through. Below, our screenshots show the "Start chat" button has most definitely changed to Material You, as have some of the main screen colors. Within individual messages, well, those still look like the old blue UI. We're getting there!

Go grab updates and let us know if your Google Photos and Google Maps apps see changes over the next couple of days. They seem to be picking up updates as well. Google Play Links: Messages | Podcasts

Pixel 6 Pro Finds Way Into Someone's Hand

Kellen — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:04:07 +0000

In any normal year, we would have seen a full review of Google's upcoming Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro by now. Google is the worst at keeping any of their products a secret, so the fact that we haven't, suggests maybe they are tightening up the shop a bit with the launch of their most important phones to date. They haven't been perfect, though. There have been various reports on this spec or that, the typical stuff we see prior to a launch. However, today, we got what may be the first hands-on video of a prototype Pixel 6 Pro. The video is only 8 seconds long, but it shows off a device that looks identical to the Pixel 6 Pro in black that Google has already previewed to us. You can see the various shades of grey and black, the triple rear camera bar, button placements, and the "Welcome to your Pixel" message on the front screen.

I think this may be the first hands on video leak of a Google Pixel 6 Pro. FYI: The logo would indicate that this is likely an early production test unit, so that means there may be some differences between what you see here and the actual production device. #teampixel pic.twitter.com/4QSvdktqA7
— M. Brandon Lee | THIS IS TECH TODAY (@thisistechtoday) September 21, 2021

You may be wondering what that logo is in the middle of its backside, and I get that. We assume that's a random Google marking to acknowledge that it is a prototype. We've seen them use weird logos like this in the past on unreleased devices they are still working on. As for the device itself, the clip is so short to give us much info. You can see the very curved nature of the device from front to back, including the curved display. Should this glossy finish end up in a retail unit, that could also mean a shiny, fingerprint-heavy phone at all times too. I will say that the phone doesn't look as big as I expected it to, or maybe this cameraman has large hands. Thoughts?

For Me, There's Only One Downside to the New Pixel 6 Lineup

Tim — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 11:56:55 +0000

I'll be upgrading to the Pixel 6 Pro from a Pixel 5. There's no question that that's the plan. However, I can already tell you that there's one thing I'm not excited about or looking forward to. Is it a dealbreaker issue? For me, no it's not, but it will be a little annoying for the first few weeks until I'm used to it. I'm speaking, of course, about the in-display fingerprint reader. I've had the privilege of using many, many phones with all sorts of fingerprint readers. I've used in-display optical and ultrasonic readers, rear-facing, and even side-key scanners that double as power buttons. For me, rear-facing scanners are by far the best, not just in performance, but in terms of how a person interacts with them. On the Pixel 5, there's a rear-facing scanner, a very quick one at that. When I pick up my Pixel 5, my index finger is already on the back of the device. To unlock the phone, it's a quick slide of my finger onto the scanner, and boom, I'm in. With in-display readers, both ultrasonic and optical, there's more a hand shimmy I need to do in order to get my thumb in the correct position. Then, I have to hope the reader wants to behave properly and let me into the phone. I can't count how many times a Samsung or OnePlus device hasn't unlocked because the in-display fingerprint reader wants to act janky. When they work, they work fine, but it's never been 100% flawless for me. With rear-facing readers, I hardly ever have that issue, especially on Google Pixel devices. If it sounds like I'm being overly critical of a silly feature, that's good, as I suppose it's my job to be a little anal about these things. I'd then argue that the way you unlock your phone is actually very important, as you do it likely hundreds of a times in a single day. I want all users to have the best smartphone experience, regardless of which phone they own, and when it comes down to it, I believe that the rear-facing scanner is the best you can do in terms of performance and placement. Am I bummed that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will feature in-display readers? Absolutely. Will this be the last time I complain about it? Doubtful. Am I going to let it get in the way of appreciating the devices and/or declaring them POTY before they've even been released? Hell no. Come on, Google, hurry up and release these phones.

Reese Witherspoon's Book Club is Now on Your Assistant-Powered Device

Tim — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 09:23:21 +0000

Reese’s Book Club, a book club hosted by the one and only Reese Witherspoon, is now available on Google Assistant-powered devices. To get started, you'll say, "Hey Google, read with Reese’s Book Club" on your smart display, smart speaker, or mobile device. From here, you'll take a fun little quiz to get personalized book recommendations and can then get "exclusive commentary" about each book pick from Reese herself. As detailed, you can link an existing account or sign up for an account with your Google credentials. Even if you aren't a member, you'll still be able to access content. If Reese recommends a book you'd like to read, Google will take you to Play Books to make a purchase. Have fun reading with Reese. // Google

Gmail on Android Gets Search Filters

Tim — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 09:01:39 +0000

The search function on Gmail has never been overly great. All you can really do is search for keywords, which most of the time, works just fine. However, Google is changing that, bringing search filters to Gmail for Android. With these new filters, which are rolling out over the next few weeks, you can search for mail with a specific date in mind, attachments, recipients, and more. According to Google, the first people to see it will be Google Workspace customers, as well as G Suite Basic and Business customers. If you happen to be one of the folks scheduled to receive this update and do in fact get it, let us know. It looks very handy.

// Google

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Lookin' Better Than Ever

Kellen — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 14:48:40 +0000

We might set a record today, for posts about Google's upcoming Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones. Whether we do or not, here's another to add to the growing list that we couldn't help but share. Google hired photographer David Urbanke to shoot the marketing images for the Pixel 6 line, which are currently on display in billboards in a city near you. Urbanke first showed off some of his work last week, but has since posted several other images, including really clean press shots you'll likely see on the web and in other digital promo materials. Because these shots are so good of both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro in a couple of colors, we wanted to show them to you. Up top, we have the regular Pixel 6 in its greenish tone combination, followed below by the same phone in an orange colorway. After that, you'll see a familiar Pixel 6 Pro shot in silver that is featured on the Google Store, along with one in gold.

I know that Google hasn't fully announced either phone, with specs and pricing, but this has been a wild ride of a reveal. We know each phone's front and back, color options, how the displays differ (flat vs. curved), and which we're likely to buy. We really just need them to make it all official at this point.

Telegram Adds Better Read Receipts, Individual Themes, More

Kellen — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 12:54:50 +0000

Telegram received an update today to v8.0.1 and the new build brought at least four new features with it, because that's the story with Telegram - regular updates that always improve the experience. In this new update, which you should have already received, Telegram is getting individual chat themes, interactive emoji, read receipts for your group chats, and an option to record live streams and video chats.

Once you have the update, you'll be able to change themes per conversation by tapping the 3-dot menu, then "Change Colors." You should find 8 new themes with colorful gradients, as well as dark and light modes. Telegram says to expect a whole bunch more of these individual themes in the future. For interactive emoji, you'll find a handful of emoji that animate should you tap on them. Currently, using 🎆 🎉 🎈 👍 💩 or ❤️ will bring on animations, and the people in your conversations will see them animate as you tap on them, assuming they are on the latest version of Telegram. Like individual themes, more emoji will be added shortly. In the read receipts department, Telegram will now show you specifically which members of a group chat have read your messages. Once a message is sent and you see the ✓✓, you can tap on that message and then a "Seen" dialog where each person that's read it is listed. Finally, for those into live streams and chats, admins will be able to record streams and then publish them. To record, tap the 3-dot menu in the stream or chat, then "Start recording. Google Play Link: Telegram

Pixel 6 Launch Date May be October 19

Tim — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 12:51:48 +0000

Thanks to an ad that was served to a Facebook user, it's looking like a mid-October release for the upcoming Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Surprising? Not at all, as that timeframe aligns with pretty much all non-Pixel A series device launches since the beginning. The ad that was served is about registering your interest for the device ahead of its launch, but a user would have to do so before October 19. Meaning, in order to learn about the device before launch, assumed to be October 19, you'd have to be signed up before that date. Make sense? The Facebook ad leads to this Telstra page, an Australia-based carrier. October 19 is only a few weeks away. Think you can make it that long? // reddit

Yup, 33W Wired Charging for the Pixel 6 Pro

Tim — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 11:05:28 +0000

We've heard rumblings, but thanks to a source of XDA who is reported to have a Pixel 6 Pro in-hand, as well as international regulatory information, at least one of Google's upcoming devices will indeed feature faster wired charging. The Pixel 6 Pro is now essentially confirmed to offer 33W wired charging, which is a major increase over the Pixel 5's 18W charging. This information comes directly from a Taiwanese regulatory label that's now being circulated on the web. As for the smaller Pixel 6, it's unknown if it'll get the same 33W treatment, but what is known is Google will be delivering what should be a new Pixel Stand that each device can take advantage of. It's reported to be rated at speeds of 23W. Yeah, the Pixel 6 lineup charging game is going to be sweet. Pixel 6 buyers, the only thing to know here is that you won't be getting a charging brick in the box. Dealbreaker? Get over yourselves, it shouldn't be. Or, maybe it is a big deal? We'll be here for the rest of 2021 debating whether phones should come with chargers or not. By next year, we'll be onto something new to argue about. // XDA

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Just Hit the FCC!

Kellen — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 10:05:54 +0000

Google's new phones stopped through the FCC this week in preparation for launch, a move that we keep close watch on as new devices find their way into our orbit. The filings reveal select details for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, but mostly are just a sign that we're almost there. The two devices at the FCC arrive under model numbers G9S9B (link), GB7N6/GR1YH (link), GLU0G (link), and G8V0U/GF5KQ (link) and feature all of the connectivity you would expect from a top tier phone, like the Pixel 6 line is supposed to be. Remember, Google said these would be expensive. As you'll notice from the screenshot below, we have LTE and 5G support all of the big bands that US carriers use, including 5G mmW. Additionally, this listing confirms NFC, wireless power transfer (wireless charging), UWB, and WiFi 6E. On a note about UWB - only models G8V0U, GF5KQ, and GLU0G list it as included, so my guess is that those three are Pixel 6 Pro models and that the regular Pixel 6 won't have UWB or Ultra-wideband support. We already sort of knew that the Pixel 6 Pro had UWB, this is sort of confirming that the Pixel 6 doesn't, unfortunately.

Pixel 6 FCC

Pixel 6 Pro FCC

We'll update if we find anything else out.

Report: There's a Second Foldable Pixel Device, 'Passport' Still Inbound

Tim — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 09:21:40 +0000

We have had solid intel concerning the development of an in-house foldable Android device from Google for over a year now, and still, we're waiting to see just what Google has been working on. The device is believed to exist with the codename Passport, though, we have yet to see the device or learn any real specifics. Regardless, we have seen further confirmation from industry folk that Passport is indeed still inbound for a release before the year's end. According to a source of @evleaks, who tends to deliver accurate information, Google has been working on Passport for two years. Additionally, it appears unclear what retail branding Passport will carry, which I suppose could mean it may not be a Pixel-branded device? Whether it's a "Pixel" or not, it's a foldable Android device from Google. https://twitter.com/evleaks/status/1439827216343474176 If you have been one of the people clamoring for this foldable Pixel, this must be reassuring news, as I've been seriously debating if we'd ever get to see this thing. Speaking of, where's the Pixel Watch?

A Second Foldable?

This post is a two-parter. According to a source of 9to5Google, there's a second foldable, hinted at within Android 12.1 code. This foldable is reported to feature the delicious codename of Jumbojack. Jumbojack is detailed to be similar to a Galaxy Z Fold from Samsung in terms of design, with a main display and some sort of exterior display. Naturally, we have no photos or documentation to share, but this is what's being reported. It's speculated that Jumbojack is being used solely to test upcoming Android 12 features for other publicly available foldables, but 9to5 reports that Google directly refers to it as a Pixel device. Reports such as this leave me with more questions than answers, but honestly, I must say Google appears to be very busy in the hardware department. As a Google fanboy, this pleases me. I can't think of a better time for Google to get serious about making good phones, with options becoming more limited for consumers. Passport and Jumbojack. What a time to be alive. // 9to5Google

OnePlus Plans New Unified OS for OnePlus Phones, Next Flagship in 2022

Kellen — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 08:38:43 +0000

To kickstart this early fall morning, OnePlus has dropped a handful of big announcements on us related to the company's future, its focus, new devices, and what we should expect going forward from its operating system. Since announcing two separate times that OnePlus has basically merged with OPPO, a lot of this is sort of what we expected to see happen, but it's still going to take a while to digest it all. Over on the OnePlus forums, OnePlus CEO Pete Lau has called the next evolution of his company, "OnePlus 2.0." This next version of OnePlus will mean locally focused releases of mid-range phones with global reach for flagships, a continued commitment to camera improvements, and a new unified operating system that he hasn't yet named, but will arrive next year for the first time.

Future OnePlus Devices

In the device department, there isn't a lot to talk about, just know that OnePlus still plans to release mid-range Nord phones as well as high-end devices. Going forward, you'll see more of that situation where new phones are announced and not released in this country. The flagships should still mostly be a global release type of thing, but the success of Nord in select markets has been noted and OnePlus will take advantage.

Camera commitments remain

As for the camera stuff, a lot of this morning's talk wasn't new, but more of a reminder of the promised commitment to making cameras that can keep up with the rest of the industry with the help of Hasselblad. OnePlus is making 3 commitments that are:

Creating a great and burdenless user experience at the very fundamental level.
Continuing to focus on improving color performance together with Hasselblad, the industry-leader in color, as well as with customized sensor and lenses.
Investing in the research and development of a range of new and improved technologies that will take the camera experience to new heights for our users.

See?

The big OxygenOS news!

Alright, this is what you came here for, so here's what you need to know. OnePlus and OPPO are fully combining their Android skins to create a new unified OS for both phones. This new OS will first launch with OnePlus' 2022 flagship, likely called the OnePlus 10. After that, the plan is to roll it out to all still-supported OnePlus later next year.

OnePlus didn't name this new operating system and they were somewhat soft on fully committing to calling it a new OS, but it sure sounds like going forward, OxygenOS is dead. Lau said specifically that this new OS would pull from parts of OxygenOS and OPPO's ColorOS to deliver the best of both. If this isn't a totally new OS with a new name, then we need clarity immediately. For example:

...I believe that the unified operating system will keep the DNA of OxygenOS that many of you love so much, while also giving you an upgraded experience overall. And of course, OnePlus has a unique group of users, therefore we will customize the unified OS specifically for OnePlus devices to make sure it meets your expectations, for example by keeping it as clean and lightweight as before, and continuing to support unlock bootloaders.

To me there's only one way to read that - OxygenOS is no longer a thing and this new and unnamed OS is coming to replace it. It'll be a combination of OxygenOS and ColorOS, with parts from both, hopefully put together in a way that you'll love. They'll also try to customize some of it depending on the device to try to keep it unique to OnePlus phones. Basically this is the plan:

By combining our software resources to focus on one unified and upgraded operating system for both OnePlus and OPPO devices globally, we will combine the strengths from both into one even more powerful OS: the fast and smooth, burdenless experience of OxygenOS, and the stability and rich features of ColorOS.

As far as rollout goes, that image above shows you the timeline. The OnePlus 10 will first launch with the "newly integrated OS" in (early) 2022. After that, with 2022's "Major Android Update" - which will be Android 13 - the rest of OnePlus' phones that still have remaining support left, will be updated to it as well. I'd like to react to this news, but look, there's no point until we see what it looks like, the feature set, the update schedule, etc. I'm worried like you are that OnePlus is going to screw this up. However, they sort of already did that when they ditched their lean and clean skin for the One UI copy a year ago.

No OnePlus 9T

Oh, Pete Lau also told The Verge that there is no OnePlus 9T this year. The next big flagship phone from OnePlus will come out next year, so if you wanted a OnePlus phone this year, the OnePlus 9 or OnePlus 9 Pro are the choices.

Billions of Android Devices Soon Getting App Permissions Auto-Resetting

Tim — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 12:43:27 +0000

With Android 11, Google introduced a feature for apps that reset their permissions after a certain amount of time if the app wasn't being used. After all, there's no reason for an app to have access to media/storage, your microphone, and/or your camera if you aren't using the app. It's a privacy thing, one that was totally welcomed. Google announced this week that it is bringing this same auto-resetting feature to every Android 6.0 and newer device. We're talking billions of devices, with anything running API level 23 or higher getting in on the privacy update. Here's Google's rundown of what's to come.

In Android 11, we introduced the permission auto-reset feature. This feature helps protect user privacy by automatically resetting an app’s runtime permissions – which are permissions that display a prompt to the user when requested – if the app isn’t used for a few months. Starting in December 2021, we are expanding this to billions more devices. This feature will automatically be enabled on devices with Google Play services that are running Android 6.0 (API level 23) or higher. The feature will be enabled by default for apps targeting Android 11 (API level 30) or higher. However, users can enable permission auto-reset manually for apps targeting API levels 23 to 29.

There's much more to know for developers, so if you happen to develop apps, we recommend checking out Google's full post by following the link below. For users, all you need to know is that you'll see this feature begin hitting your Android 6.0+ device beginning this December. // Android Developers

OnePlus 9 Pro Gets Major Camera Update, New XPan Feature

Kellen — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 08:56:21 +0000

OnePlus is pushing out a fresh update to its OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro devices this week that introduces a new camera feature and and includes "major optimizations and improvements" to image quality. In the update, which should rollout as OxygenOS 11.2.9.9, users will find a new XPan mode that is a part of the Hasselblad experience on OnePlus' newest high-end phones. XPan is a wide-format shooting mode with an aspect ratio of 65:24, sort of like an ultra-wide movie would look, that defaults to black and white, but can be switched to color manually. This is a modern take on an old Hasselblad shooting technology that, so OnePlus is doing some silly UI action to make it look old school, where snapping the shutter button presents a negative film look at the shot before processing it. Photos will be taken at 30mm or 45mm focal lengths with a resolution at around 20MP. Below, you can see the shooting mode and a couple of OnePlus' examples.

In more important news, OnePlus is issuing a big update to improve the image quality you'll see through the OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro. They claim to have gathered more than 4,000 pieces of feedback and suggestions regarding the camera and have used that data to do the following:

Optimize HDR frame retrieving algorithms and reduce noise in multiple scenes
Fix the over-sharpening issues in some scenarios in auto-mode
Improve the stability of auto white balance.
Optimize auto white balance shift between the main and ultra-wide cameras
Reduced the over-brightening of photos taken in Nightscape mode in some scenarios, for more natural night photos.
Improve the dynamic range in low-light conditions.
Improve the success rate when shooting moving objects.
Improve the fluency of the camera preview and optimize the shutter lag in some scenarios.
Update the memory optimization solution and reduce the launch time of the native camera app by up to 50%.

So yeah, XPan is cool and all, but the general use of the camera on these phones should be greatly improved from where they launched. The new update is slowly rolling out starting today.

DEAL: OnePlus 9 Pro is $100 Off With This Coupon Code, Down to $969

Tim — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 08:33:27 +0000

For a limited time, specifically until September 22, buyers can get a OnePlus 9 Pro at $100 off the typical retail price using a special coupon code on OnePlus's web store. With $100 off, the total for the device comes to $969, which is still incredibly expensive, but justified if you're a big-time OnePlus fan and want the best specs available.

Read Our Review: OnePlus 9 Pro

Need a reminder of those specs? Sure thing. OnePlus 9 Pro features a 6.7″ QHD AMOLED display at 120Hz with LTPO, 12GB LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB storage, Snapdragon 888, 4,500mAh battery (65W wired and 50W wireless charging), branded Hasselblad camera system, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, plus an in-display fingerprint reader. For software, it ships with Android 11, but OP does have an Android 12 beta you're welcome to try out. Just be careful, as OP betas have never been the most stable of things. If you're interested, follow the link below.

Buy OnePlus 9 Pro (Use Code XPAN9PRO)

HBO Max is 50% Off for the Next 6 Months

Kellen — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 07:18:46 +0000

HBO Max is no longer available through Amazon Prime Video Channels - a thing I've never heard of - so to mark the occasion and give everyone a chance to experience the service directly, we have a 50% off deal to share with you. You can currently jump into HBO Max as a new or return customer and pay half the price for the next six months. The deal is pretty simply, really. If you want to check out HBO Max for the first time or as a return customer, you can jump over to the HBO Max site (or through apps on your favorite platform) and sign-up for $7.49 per month for the next 6 months. HBO Max typically costs $15/mo for the ad-free version and has enough great content to justify that full price, but yeah, we love it when things that are this good get big price cuts. For those who have not experienced HBO Max in a while, you should know that they are still releasing movies on HBO Max at the same time they arrive in theaters. We don't know for how much longer they'll do that, but the past year has been pretty awesome for watching new movies from the comfort of our own couch. In the coming weeks and months, we'll get the new Dune, new Matrix, and The Many Saints of Newark, a Sopranos story, all when they would typically be in theaters. Of course, HBO is still one of the kings of original content too. I finally watched Mare of Eastown, and yeah, it was pretty great. You could always go back and re-watch Game of Thrones too, just skip the last 2 seasons and use your imagination to come up with your own ending - it'll be better than what was given to us. The promo runs from today (9/15) through September 26, and again, is for everyone, not just former Amazon Prime Video Channel users. Well, I don't believe current customers can take advantage (unless they cancel and sign-up again?), but new and returning customers sure can.

Sign-up for HBO Max at 50% off

TicWatch E3 Review: A Budget Option

Kellen — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 11:45:22 +0000

Mobvoi, one of the few remaining makers of Wear OS watches, first introduced the TicWatch E3 in June, only a couple of weeks after Google announced the new Wear OS 3.0 alongside Samsung. The timing made for an awkward situation for Mobvoi, where we could talk about what the watch had to offer today, but also that we had questions about its future with the platform. The TicWatch E3 has now been available for a couple of months and we do know that it should receive the big update to Wear OS 3. That might not happen for up to a year, though, so when considering this watch as one you'll want on the wrist, you will have to take that into account. Now, the TicWatch E3, under normal circumstances, would be an easy watch to look at. It offers a top tier set of specs in a package right at the $200 mark that will likely see discounts. But as appealing as it should be, that Wear OS 3 situation is not something anyone should look past. I've spent some time with the TicWatch E3 on several occasions since it was announced, so let's talk about what's good and bad about it and whether or not you should buy one.

What do I like about the TicWatch E3?

Specs. Before we get going, here's a rundown of the TicWatch E3 specs, which are indeed quite good, especially for the money. For $199.99, you get a 44mm case with a 1.3″ LCD display (360×360), Snapdragon Wear 4100 chip, 1GB RAM and 8GB storage, 380mAh battery, IP68 water and dust resistance, NFC, Bluetooth 5.0, speaker, mic, heartrate sensor, SpO2 sensor, and GPS. This watch clearly isn't missing anything a current smartwatch should have. Performance. With a Snapdragon Wear 4100 and 1GB RAM on board, like the TicWatch Pro 3, the E3 is a smooth operating timepiece. Because it has that somewhat modern chip and plenty of RAM, you won't find the stutters and hiccups and slow loading of just about everything that you saw on watches released with the Wear 3100 or 2100. If you need to jump between apps, like an ongoing workout or timer, to check notifications and then get back, that can happen now. Loading Google Play and installing apps or watchfaces won't bring spinning and hesitation - they'll actually install in a timely manner. I know that seems to be setting the bar low, but multi-tasking on a Wear OS watch or adding new apps prior to the Wear 4100 was almost impossible. So as far as daily use goes, the TicWatch E3 is a solid performer that won't let you down. Battery life. The 380mAh battery in the TicWatch E3 is good enough for about a day and a half of use, and that's with always-on display and sleep tracking turned on. Even with a workout in there and heavy notification action, I never ran into battery worries. On most days, I'd wake up, toss the watch on the charger for an hour to get it to 100%, wear it all day, night, and during activities, then wake up again with 30% battery. And again, I left everything turned on. You may recall in my Galaxy Watch 4 Classic review that I had to turn always-on display off to get it to last for 24 hours - that's not at all an issue here. As for charging, the TicWatch E3 might not be as fast as I remember Fossil watches, but it's pretty fast. It's certainly much faster to charge that Samsung's new watches. Like I said, I could get from 20% to 100% in about an hour, maybe a little less.

Focus on fitness. To Mobvoi's credit, they have really begun to take fitness and health seriously with their smartwatches. The Mobvoi companion app for TicWatch devices has gone through several big changes and has evolved into a pretty deep fitness platform. While I haven't used it much, since I've given my health and fitness life to other platforms, there's no denying that if you plan to stick with a Mobvoi watch, like the TicWatch E3, for a long time, you could really track a lot of stuff about your health. The Mobvoi app and all of the Tic apps on the E3 can keep track of everything from 24-7 heartrate and SpO2, to sleep tracking, your active hours, steps and activities, fitness goals and milestones, and weekly/monthly health reports. They even built in a social aspect to it should you have friends and family with other TicWatches. Price. At $199.99, the TicWatch E3 provides pretty damn good value. It packs almost the same specs as the $300 TicWatch Pro 3 and matches up somewhat closely in specs to Samsung's cheapest Galaxy Watch 4 that runs $250. You get a decent chipset in the 4100, big and bright screen, NFC, and solid battery life at a price that's lower than the competition. The only thing is, which I'm about to get into, is this is not the nicest feeling watch around and you are mostly certainly getting what you paid for.

What don't I like about it?

It's quite cheap looking and feeling. Keeping it real here, the TicWatch E3 is miles behind the TicWatch Pro 3 and Galaxy Watch 4 series in terms of wearability. This thing feels and looks cheap as hell. It is unapologetically plastic, with a 44mm case that sits a massive 12.6mm high. It's a big, bulky and sharp-edged watch with an awful-feeling vibration motor, a band that probably would fetch $1 on Amazon (note: 22mm and you can change it), and a display that gets plenty bright, but looks like it's deep under its cover display and is surrounded by wildly thick bezels. Part of the reason this review has taken so long to put together is because the E3 is just not that fun to wear when watches like Mobvoi's Pro 3 and Samsung's Watch 4 exist. Those watches are all carefully put together, high-end watches that feel almost like a traditional watch or a finely crafted fitness wearable. This E3 feels like neither and mostly comes off as the cheap option to Mobvoi's better watch. And maybe that's exactly the point. Software situation. As I mentioned in the opening, and I'm sure you are well aware, the TicWatch E3 still runs Wear OS 2 and will for about another year. Samsung's new Galaxy Watch 4 devices are the only ones until mid-to-late 2022 that have Wear OS 3, for reasons no one wants to confirm. Like I said above, this E3 runs Wear OS 2 just fine, but being a year out from having the latest version could lead to a frustrating experience for owners. For one, we've already seen apps launch only on the Galaxy Watch 4 and Wear OS 3 (like YouTube Music and Google Maps). Even apps like Strava have decided to no longer support Wear OS 2 watches. We also don't know what Google will do to keep Wear OS 2 fresh for the next year, but I'd bet we continue to see some stuff on Wear OS 3 that won't be available on older versions. Google is clearly looking forward, even if it means pushing aside their partners and customers. The other thing to consider is that Google has said it'll be late 2022 before the TicWatch E3 can have Wear OS 3. But we don't know if Mobvoi or Google will stick to that timeline or if there will be delays and reasons it doesn't arrive as soon as possible. Mobvoi, while they do make lots of Wear OS watches and continue to update many, is not exactly the best or quickest at pushing those updates. Remember the H-MR2 update from mid-2020? Mobvoi promised that was arriving "soon" to their TicWatch Pro 3 customers in October 2020, only to take another 6 months (April 2021) to finally deliver it. What I'm saying here is that if you buy the TicWatch E3 today, you could be left out of numerous new features for the platform that Google and app developers are directing at Wear OS 3, plus we don't know if Mobvoi will even stick to any sort of speedy timeline to Wear OS 3 when they can.

Buy or pass on the TicWatch E3?

This is a tough one even at its reasonable $199 price. The TicWatch E3 provides great performance and battery life in a watch that won't break the bank, yet I'm worried about future software support and can't really stand the build quality and design of the watch itself. If you are on a budget and need a mostly powerful, full-blown smartwatch that should last you a while, this could be a good option, just understand that the next year will be telling for its long-term outlook. You should probably also wait for the many deals that are likely to come as we approach the holidays.

Shop TicWatch E3 deals at Amazon

Select T-Mobile Locations Get In-Store Repairs Starting November 1

Tim — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:35:39 +0000

T-Mobile announced today that starting November 1, it's upgrading 500 retail locations across the US to include dedicated phone repair stations, equipped with, "some of the most highly-credentialed mobile repair technicians in the industry," from Assurant, "that use only manufacturer-approved parts and are committed to fast and reliable service." With this move, folks won't have to go to their local mall to find a repair kiosk. While you're waiting for you screen to be replaced, you can shop for accessories and other services, which is I'm sure what T-Mobile is thinking, too. T-Mobile details that these repair shops are accessible and able to be scheduled to those with the $7/month Protection plan on their accounts. With Protection equipped, you'll be able to access an online scheduler, then receive same-day repairs on devices. We don't have a pricing list for repairs, but according to the press release, Protection does cover "accidental damage, loss, and theft — including next business day replacements." Very convenient. // T-Mobile

You'll Want to See T-Mobile's New "5G UC" Logo

Kellen — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:02:26 +0000

5G in the US is still a ridiculous concept surrounded by world-changing promises that started years ago and have never come close to becoming a reality. Carriers need 5G, it seems, to keep you excited about their networks and to convince you that one is better than the other. They did the same with 4G and LTE, except that technology actually brought us pretty immediate change as it was such a massive jump in speeds over 3G. Today, because this multi-year race in convincing you that they have 5G first or the most 5G or the fastest 5G ~~or the smallest chips for vaccines~~, has brought on confusion, disappointment, and more eyerolls than I can count. It's also brought several logos that your phone will show that you'll need to keep track of to understand what kind of 5G you are getting at the moment. Yes, there are different levels and types of 5G that vary greatly. T-Mobile, like Verizon and AT&T did previously, is now branding its fastest 5G to let you know when it's time to download ~~porn~~ music...playlists. On the iPhone 13 devices that Apple just announced, T-Mobile will start showing a "5G UC" as an indicator that you are on their Ultra Capacity 5G - wait shouldn't that be "5G Ultra Capacity" if it's "5G UC?" Whatever.

T-Mobile's Ultra Capacity 5G is their good 5G, which they recently revealed in a coverage map to better help you find it. This is (mostly) the mid-band 5G that they acquired from Sprint and that has given them a huge lead in good 5G over Verizon and AT&T. This spectrum is the reason they didn't push out as much 5G mmW like Verizon did, just to talk about speeds, even as no one can ever access Verizon's high-speed "Ultra Wideband" or mmW network. T-Mobile does have some 5G mmW, but again, unlikely that you'll find it and you will mostly be on their mid-band 5G. Long story short, you will want to see this 5G UC logo going forward, assuming they give it to your phone. It will mean that you are on T-Mobile's best network with speeds that reach broadband levels. It also means that when you see just a "5G" logo, that you shouldn't expect much of a difference from the previous 4G LTE logo you had for years.

A Guy Took Pictures of the Google Pixel 6 Pro

Kellen — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 20:35:11 +0000

Google still hasn't set a public date for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro to be revealed and then go on sale, but they are doing everything they can to continue to tease their arrival. The new Google Store in NYC has apparently setup display units that someone noticed today and took pictures of. In the images here, you can see the gold Pixel 6 Pro under a banner with its name and a "Coming Fall 2021" note. There's a QR code too, but it just takes you to the online Google Store's Pixel 6 listing that has been live for several weeks. The device itself isn't really showing us anything new beyond what Google has already showed us, but look, this is almost a real device in the wild situation and we'll take it. Of course, Google is hiding the display (which we kind of saw here) and isn't letting anyone touch it. Taking pictures of it like this does give you a better idea of the color, how that camera bar will look in the real world, and how damn big the phone might be. This gold option is most definitely my least favorite of the three, with the silver and black models looking the slickest. If you do love this soft gold, well, good for you and that fancy taste of yours. Please take care of it as you scarf caviar and chutney off its backside with your glass of Dom in hand and red bottoms on.

Oh, and this guy also snagged a photo of the regular Pixel 6 in its red or pink or whatever color that is. It looks very nice.

Who wants to walk over to the Google Store for us and see what else they can find?

Galaxy S22 Ultra Will Charge Fast Again

Tim — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 12:06:30 +0000

Samsung equipped the Galaxy S21 Ultra with 25W fast charging for its 5,000mAh battery. That's fine and dandy, but compared to some other charging speeds on the market, it's not that impressive. Then, when you remember that the Galaxy S20 Ultra supported 45W charging, you're left wondering why Samsung opted to downgrade the S21 lineup. This week, we're learning that Samsung may be upping the Ultra model's charging speed, again, which means less time attached to the wall for your device. According to known Samsung insider Ice Universe on Twitter, the Galaxy S22 Ultra will feature 45W fast charging (10V/4.5A). If we're speculating that the phone comes with a 5,000mAh battery again, it seems like a safe bet that the phone should be able to fully charge in about an hour or so. On top of charging speeds, Ice also mentions that the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ will be equipped with Samsung's GN5 camera sensor, which was announced rather recently. According to Samsung, the ISOCELL GN5 is a slim 1.0µm 50MP sensor with enhanced autofocus capabilities, definitely something to look forward to. It's only September, so if these are the phones you're waiting on, I'd recommend pacing yourself. It's going to be a while. // @UniverseIce

YouTube TV Adds Univision, UniMás, and Galavisión to Channel Line-Up

Kellen — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 10:32:52 +0000

YouTube TV picked up three new channels this week in Univision, UniMás, and Galavisión. The arrival is nicely timed as we just kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month, and as Google noted in its announcement, these are "Spanish-language favorites." With Univision now in the YouTube TV line-up, subscribers will get access to a whole bunch of soccer, including Liga MX, the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, MNT, USMNT, and UEFA Nations League. It'll also mean access to the 22nd Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards in November. As for UniMás and Galavisión, here are some highlights of their top shows:

The channels should be live now, so if you are a YouTube TV subscriber, you'll find them in the line-up. However, if you use a custom guide, you'll want to edit that guide and scroll to the bottom to find them before re-arranging your order. Hey, no price hike either!

Google's 'Original Chips' Campaign Makes Us Hungry for the Pixel 6

Tim — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 08:27:25 +0000

I'm on a diet, one that doesn't allow me to partake in things such as junk food. Naturally, Google has taken this time to release a new Original Chips campaign, based entirely on potato chips and processors (aka chips). Get it? It's a whole lotta pun! The campaign took place in Japan, with Google detailing "in-house" Original Chips, "A genuine chip manufactured entirely in-house for the new Google Pixel 6. Flying chips that let you enjoy its charm quickly. Made by 100% Google, it has a crispy finish. You should definitely enjoy the deliciousness of freshly made Hokuhoku." Mmmm, chips. Google even made up actual bags of chips that folks in Japan could claim. Lucky. Obviously, Google is referring a lot to Tensor, its first in-house application processor for smartphones. We expect big things from Tensor, and with Google hyping it up like this, my suggestion to them is that it better deliver. Below you can watch the video for the Original Chips campaign, which is really cute. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-zV6EdcErU&ab_channel=GoogleJapan // Google

Google's Nexus Account Comes Alive to Hype Pixel 6

Kellen — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 14:19:11 +0000

Today is indeed iPhone 13 day, but this fine day also brought the return of an old friend who had not Tweeted in almost 4 years. Following Apple's "California Streaming" event, the Google Nexus Twitter account popped up with a perfectly timed message. The message simply said "I'd wait for #Pixel6" a few moments after the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro lines had been revealed. It's a simple message sent out in such a personal way to its 1 million followers, many of which lived through so many years of Nexus devices that produced both good and bad memories. The @googlenexus account is locked and has been for some time, so I can't embed the Tweet here or retweet it, but we've captured it below. You can view it here.

Should you all just wait for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro instead of ordering the new iPhone 13 this Friday? Well, yeah. Google is likely to show off the Pixel 6 line over the next couple of weeks, and since you are an Android phone fan, why wouldn't you wait? While the iPhone 13 Pro packs a 120Hz display for the first time and a camera setup that should produce remarkable results, it's still an iPhone running iOS. Hey, did you see that new list of specs for the Pixel 6 Pro? Yeah, you should probably look through it if you haven't - the phone sounds so good.

Here's More Pixel 6 Pro Specs for You Google Fiends

Tim — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 13:46:35 +0000

We have an updated understanding of what the Pixel 6 Pro will be offering later this year, thanks to new intel posted to the web. Should this latest information be accurate, Google fans are in for a real treat with this device, so fingers crossed this all pans out the way we hope. Courtesy of XDA's Mishaal Rahman, the Pixel 6 Pro will offer a 5,000mAh battery, 120Hz variable refresh rate, 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, 128GB of internal storage (we assume that's the base offering?), Mali-G78 GPU, octa-core CPU (Samsung-manufactured Google Tensor), 6GHz WiFi support (aka WiFi 6E), a triple rear camera setup consisting of a Samsung-made 50-megapixel GN1 sensor, Sony-made wide-angle IMX386 (12MP) sensor and IMX586 telephoto (48MP), plus a Goodix-made fingerprint reader (a standard supplier for many OEMs). While getting to read specs is always fun, a couple of features are also detailed. According to Rahman, we can look forward to new camera modes called Baby Mode and Motion Deblur. Also onboard is reported to be support for battery sharing and "UWB," which powers Samsung's Galaxy Tag+ devices and will hopefully one day allow everyone to unlock their car with a smartphone, as well as Quick Tap support (first introduced with Android 12). For more specs, we learned additional things back in early August, such as display sizes and more. C'mon, Google, just release it already! // @MishaalRahman | XDA

Everything New in Samsung's One UI 4 (Android 12) Beta

Tim — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 10:16:21 +0000

I woke up this morning and flashed the One UI 4 beta to my Galaxy S21 Ultra. As we take a look around the updated software, we wanted to share Samsung's changelog for the update. As you'll see below, it's extremely lengthy, which is no surprise considering Android 12 in general brings a plethora of fantastic changes.

Download: One UI 4 Beta for Galaxy S21 Devices

The big topics for Android 12 are device customization and privacy. Both of these things are highlighted significantly, though, there are a handful of changes on an app-by-app basis as well. Below, check out the complete changelog for the One UI 4 beta, then if you haven't done so on your own Galaxy S21 lineup device, go get it. So far, it's awesome.

Everything New in One UI 4 Beta

One UI 4 Upgrade (Android 12)

One UI 4 is all about you. Your comfort. Your privacy. Your self-expression. Redesigned for a seamless experience across your Galaxy devices, One U14 keeps the things you love while adding a wide array of new features and enhancements and more customizations than ever so you can make it your own. More intuitive, more fun, more secure. and easier than ever. Check out the changes below.

Home screen
- Home screen widgets have been redesigned to give you more information at a glance while also making your Home screen more stylish. You'll also get recommendations for widgets that may be useful for you.
Lock screen
- You can now change the audio output to a different device, such as headphones or a speaker, right from the Lock screen. You'll also get customized controls depending on which music app you're using.
- A new Voice Recorder widget for the Lock screen lets you record voice memos without unlocking your phone.
- A monthly calendar appears on the Calendar widget to help you keep track of your events from the Lock screen.
Always On Display
- You can set the Always On Display turn on whenever you receive a notification.
- New animated stickers are available.
Quick panel
- Manage your notifications more comfortably with an enhanced layout and an integrated section of alert and silent notifications.
- The brightness bar in the quick panel is larger so it's easier to see and adjust.
Dark Mode
- Wallpapers, icons, and illustrations are now darkened automatically to provide a more consistent look and more comfort for your eyes.
Charging effects
- New visual effects appear when you start charging to help you check the charging speed.
Samsung Keyboard
- Get to your emojis, GIFS, and stickers directly from the keyboard with a single button. Self-expression is a tap away.
- Looking to express something new? Combine two emojis, then add an animation so you can really get your feelings across.
- New animated stickers are available for download.
- Keep your grammar and spelling on point with the new Writing assistant, powered by Grammarly (English only).
Tips
- Preview videos now appear when you enter the Tips app, helping you learn everything your Galaxy can do.
Sharing
- You can customize the list of apps that appear on the share panel to reduce clutter, and scroll left and right across the lists of apps and people for quicker access.
- When you try to share pictures that have problems like poor focus or framing, you'll get suggestions for fixing them so your pictures always look their best.
Camera
- Enjoy a simpler, clearer layout with a preview that shows only the information you need. The scene optimizer button will only appear in Photo mode if there's low light or you're scanning a document. Settings for Portrait and Night modes are now more intuitive.
- Lens and zoom: See the zoom level on the lens icons for easier zooming, even in modes that only support one lens.
- Video that never misses a moment: Recording naw starts immediately after you tap the Record button, instead of when you release it. In Photo mode, touch and hold the Shutter button to start recording a video. Drag your finger to the Lock icon to continue recording without having to hold down the button.
- Single take: Add extra time while recording in Single Take so you don't miss important moments. After recording is finished, the content selection menu has been improved to help you easily choose the perfect shots.
- Pro made: Settings have been reorganized for a cleaner look. When grid lines are on, horizontal level indicators help you line up the perfect shot.
- Enhanced scan features: After scanning a document, you can zoom in for fine editing. When you scan a QR code, you can choose from several options depending on the type of QR code.
Gallery
- Stories now show a video preview on the cover and a highlight video inside. You can also see where each picture in a story was taken on a map.
- More options are available for sorting albums that contain lots of photos.
- Album covers are now shown at the top of the screen when you open albums.
- Search suggestions have been improved to help you find pictures and videos. Recent searches are also suggested.
- Remastered pictures can be reverted to their original versions at any time, even after they're saved.
- You can now edit the date, time, and location that pictures and videos were taken.
Photo and video editor
- Add fun emojis and stickers to your pictures and videos.
- Create video collages by combining multiple images and videos from your Gallery. The new Light balance option lets you edit the tone of pictures more easily. The Highlight reel editor has also been enhanced to give you even more control.
- Revert edited videos back to their original versions at any time, even after they're saved.
- Cut out a face, pet, building, or any other object from a photo and paste it onto a different one.
AR Emoji
- Use an AR emoji as your profile picture in Contacts and Samsung account. You can choose from over 10 poses or create your own expressions.
- New AR emoji stickers that show only your face have been added. Have fun decorating your photos and sharing them with your friends.
- Make cool dance videos with your AR emojis. Choose templates from 10 different categories including #Fun, #Cute, and #Party.
- Use your awn drawings to create unique clothes for your AR emojis.
Multitasking
- Pin the window option menu to the top of a pop-up window to make it easier to access.
- Easily resize picture-in-picture windows with pinch zoom.
- Keep your current app in view while using edge panels. Blurring has been removed to help you see more at once.
Settings
- The new Safety and emergency menu lets you manage your emergency contacts and safety information all in one place.
- Improved search features help you find the settings you need, when you need them. You'll get suggestions for related features depending on what you search for.
Digital Wellbeing
- Keep your eyes on the road with the new Driving monitor. You'll get reports on how much you used your phone and which apps you used.
Clock
- The dual clock widget now shows different background colors for each city depending on whether it's day or night.
Calendar
- The new Calendar layout lets you add events instantly. You can also find events more easily with improved search features.
- A new Home screen widget shows your monthly calendar along with today's events.
- Create shared calendars and invite other Galaxy users to join.
Messages
- Photos, videos, web links, and other content will now appear in search results in the Messages app.
My Files
- Search features have been improved. You can still find the files you're looking for, even if there's a typo.
- The Recent files area has been expanded to help you more easily find files you've used recently.
Samsung Intenet
- Get more search suggestions when you enter text in the address bar. Results will appear with an all new design.
- The new search widget helps you find what you're looking for, right from the Home screen. 'To protect your privacy, Samsung Internet will automatically start in Secret mode if you were using Secret mode during your last browsing session.
Device Care
- The main screen shows battery and security issues, making it easier to solve problems quickly.
- Your phone's overall status is shown as an emoji, helping you check the status at a glance.
- Now you can get right to Samsung Members diagnostics phone, try the diagnostic tests to find out what the problem is and get suggestions for solving it.
Samsung Health
- A new tab layout at the bottom of the screen helps you access the features you need more easily.
- The new My page tab shows your profile. weekly summary, badges. and personal bests.
- For your gender selection, you can now choose "Other" or "Prefer not to say."
- It's now easier to invite your friends to team challenges by sending a link.
- Additional snacks have been added to the food tracker.
Bixby Routines
- More conditions are available for your routines. Start a routine during a call or when a certain notification arrives.
- Make your routines do more. You can now turn on Enhanced processing with a routine. There are also more options for connecting and disconnecting Bluetooth devices.
- Reorder actions by touching and holding actions on the edit page. Advanced options have also been added to let you wait before an action starts, confirm actions, and more.
- We've removed restrictions for some combinations of recommendations and actions so you can do even more with your routines.
- Create custom icons for your routines using the Camera or an image from Gallery.
Accessibility
- Perform actions more quickly by moving your mouse pointer to one of the 4 corners of the screen.
- Adjust contrast and size at the same time with custom Display mode (High contrast or Large display).
- Access accessibility features more quickly with a floating button that's always available.
- More visibility options are available to meet your needs. You can reduce transparency and blur or make the screen extra dim.
- Set different colon for each app's notifications so you can easily determine where notifications are coming from. 'Magnifier window has been merged with the new Magnification menu, giving you more options and more control for magnifying content on the screen.
Privacy
- See which apps are accessing sensitive permissions such as Location, Camera. or Microphone in Permission usage history. You can deny permissions for any apps you don't feel comfortable with.
- A green dot will appear in the upper right corner of the screen when any app is using the camera or microphone so you can see if an app is recording you without your consent. You can also use quick panel controls to temporarily block all apps from using the camera or microphone.
- Take more control over apps that want to access your location. For apps that on]y need to know your general area, such as weather apps. you can allow access to your approximate location so they can't determine exactly where you are.
- Sometimes you need to copy sensitive information. like passwords or credit card numbers, but you don't want it to fall into the wrong hands. You can choose to be notified any time an app accesses content copied to the clipboard in another app.

Some apps will need to be updated separately after the One UI 4 upgrade.

As I said, it's long. For most users, the download weighs in at around 2.4GB, which is no laughing matter. It also comes with the September security patch. Have fun, Galaxy S21 owners!

Here's the Pixel 6 Pro in Silver Looking Extra Hot

Kellen — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 09:32:23 +0000

The Google Pixel 6 Pro will arrive at some point in the fall of this year, as will its barely-smaller sibling, the Pixel 6. When they do, it could mark the start of something huge for Google, assuming they truly nail the experience, specs, marketing, and quality control. Both devices sure appear to be a sign of Google finally taking this smartphone thing seriously. So as we approach each phone's launch, we can't help but look for any little bit of information, even if it is an image or two we have seen before presented in a new way. That happened today on the Google Store, where Google tossed up a new picture of the Pixel 6 Pro with both front and backsides showing. This would be the silver model of the Pixel 6 Pro, which if you ask me, is the best looking of the Pro colors and will absolutely be the version I purchase. The image weighs in with quite the high resolution, so you can really dive in and see what the top portions of the front and back have to offer. We know the back will offer a camera bar with 3-camera setup. The front, at least according to this photo, will have super slim top bezel and what appears to be a speaker grill just above a centered, hole-punch selfie camera.

Outside of that, we can once again see the multi-colored backside, familiar power-volume button setup, and the slightly curved edges on the front of the display (boo!). The wallpaper and the image itself are also trying to highlight the Material You dynamic coloring that pulls from the wallpaper to provide colorful accents throughout the UI. I know that it's iPhone 13 day and the tech world will be consumed over there, but with each new view of the Pixel 6 line-up, I can't help but finally get excited about something tech-related in 2021.