Android Police

Amazon spills the beans on the Google Pixel Tablet

Rajesh Pandey — Mon, 08 May 2023 07:41:48 GMT

Alongside the Pixel Fold, Google is rumored to announce the Pixel Tablet and the Pixel 7a at I/O 2023 later this week. The Pixel Fold and Pixel 7a have been extensively detailed in leaks, revealing their specifications and rumored pricing. On its part, Google has also officially showcased its first folding Pixel. The Pixel-branded tablet was the only exception so far whose specs were unclear, but even that's changing now as an Amazon Japan listing that prematurely went live has detailed everything about the device.

Best Samsung Galaxy S22 cases in 2023

Ara Wagoner — Sun, 07 May 2023 20:00:17 GMT

The Samsung Galaxy S23 might have replaced the Galaxy S22 on the list of our favorite Android phones, but it's still an impressive device. Like any smartphone, though, it's made of glass and metal, which means one drop could spell disaster for your little device. Luckily, tons of exceptional cases are available for the Galaxy S22 — from bulky military-grade options to simpler slim-fit cases. We've compiled this list of the best to help you find something that fits your style and needs.

Best Samsung Galaxy S23 screen protectors in 2023

Gaurav Shukla — Sun, 07 May 2023 19:00:16 GMT

The latest addition to Samsung's flagship lineup — the Galaxy S23, alongside its Plus and Ultra counterparts — is the crème de la crème of smartphones. It's easily one of the best Android phones presently. And owning such a device means you'd be going about your day with a sleek, powerful beast that's bound to stay relevant for many years.

Google TV’s Apps only mode is getting a visual refresh

Chethan Rao — Sun, 07 May 2023 18:30:26 GMT

Google TV has picked up a few updates in the recent past, including some not-so-exciting ones. However, it continues to power some of the best streaming devices on the market, especially if you’re invested in Google’s smart home ecosystem. Back in 2020, the company started offering an apps-only interface, which puts Google TV applications front and center, hiding away Assistant and personalized recommendations. Over this past week, one of our readers witnessed a new visual upgrade to this interface, with larger icons and a new grid format for apps while scrolling down from the banner.

Fairphone's repair-friendly over-ear ANC headphones have leaked in detailed renders

Chethan Rao — Sun, 07 May 2023 18:11:22 GMT

Fairphone is rated among the most user-friendly smartphone companies in the world, with the manufacturer's Fairphone 2 outliving itself and receiving more security updates than Samsung or Google flagships. Not to mention the company's Fairphone 4, which launched back in 2021 and continues to be a favorite for those who prefer robust repair support. Last month, leaks pointed to the imminent launch of the Fairbuds XL, Fairphone's unannounced over-the-ear headphones. We're now being treated to renders of these ANC headphones, outfitted in green and black.

Best Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra screen protectors in 2023

Cale Hunt — Sun, 07 May 2023 18:01:17 GMT

Samsung phones have had exceptional displays for as long as we can remember, but that's not surprising when you realize it also manufactures the displays in most of its rivals' phones. The Galaxy S23 Ultra is as exceptional as you'd expect, with a pin-sharp 6.8-inch 1440x3088 display that can vary its refresh rate anywhere between 1-120Hz and achieve a max brightness of 1,750 nits. Add HDR10+ certification, and you have a gorgeous AMOLED screen that deserves to be kept pristine.

The HTC midranger no one asked for poses for the camera in elaborate leak

Chethan Rao — Sun, 07 May 2023 16:23:14 GMT

HTC's glory days of Android smartphones may be well behind it, with other manufacturers stepping up to fill the void. Nevertheless, the Taiwanese manufacturer still occasionally churns out new phones, albeit at a glacially slow pace. The Desire 22 Pro arrived last year and failed to make an impact, despite being packaged with marketing buzzwords like the "first metaverse smartphone." Just a month ahead of that model's first anniversary, HTC teased the launch of yet another metaverse-focused phone. A set of leaked images now offers a closer look at this upcoming mid-tier device — reportedly named the HTC U23 Pro 5G — along with a smattering of details on the phone's hardware specs.

Sonos Era 300 review: Room to breathe

Daniel Bader — Sun, 07 May 2023 15:00:16 GMT

My first few days with the Sonos Era 300 were frustrating, and it had nothing to do with the matte black speaker failing to blend in with my living room's messy decor. My right ear was blocked and everything sounded muddled, including the Dolby Atmos-mastered tracks I desperately wanted to find as compelling and straight-up better than whatever stereo mixes Spotify had been spitting out of various connected speakers for years. My first impressions of the Era 300 (and the smaller Era 100), in a small crowded Manhattan office officiated by the Giles Martin, made me hopeful that spatial audio — nascent, but not an entirely new concept to me at the time — was as transformative as Sonos wants it to be.

Weekend poll: Are you planning to watch Google I/O this week?

Will Sattelberg — Sun, 07 May 2023 14:36:21 GMT

After months of rumors and speculation surrounding Google's hardware plans for 2023, it's finally time for a grand debut. Google I/O is set for this Wednesday, where we'll get an in-depth look at Android 14, plenty of talk about AI, and of course, all sorts of new hardware to get excited about. It's also a truncated event, taking place over just one day rather than spread throughout a week. That should make it easier to watch, so we want to know if you'll be tuning in.

How to set up Android's Data Saver mode

Parth Shah — Sun, 07 May 2023 13:30:17 GMT

While most carriers offer unlimited data with their monthly plans, there are some out there that still limit cellular data usage. With dozens of Android's best apps and services running in the background, you may run out of your monthly mobile data rather quickly. So instead of paying for expensive mobile internet every month, you can enable the data saver mode on your top budget Android phone and restrict apps from consuming data in the background. Here's how you can start conserving your data with ease.

Chromebooks still aren't ready for me to switch to using full-time

Manuel Vonau — Sun, 07 May 2023 13:05:52 GMT

I really like ChromeOS. As someone embedded in Google's ecosystem and covering the latest stories surrounding the company every day, any and all of the latest and greatest Chromebooks have long intrigued me. Lately, Google has been doing a lot to make me like its desktop operating system even more. The company is rolling out the option to mirror your phone’s screen to your laptop, a big Material You revamp is on the way, and web apps are getting more numerous and ever better — and that's on top of improved Android support on the platform.

12 best Metroidvania games in 2023

Edgar Wulf — Sun, 07 May 2023 12:30:16 GMT

Metroidvania titles focus on exploration and item acquisition, with each discovery delivering something special to help you progress your adventure. This genre has graced countless consoles and handhelds and now to your favorite Android tablet. Some of the best games on Android evoke aspects of Metroidvania, from the flashiest platformers to the brutalist souls-likes,

Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 cases in 2023

Ara Wagoner — Sun, 07 May 2023 12:00:17 GMT

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 is the closest we've seen to a mainstream foldable, thanks to its unrivaled popularity. The Galaxy Z Flip 4 kept the strengths of the Z Flip 3 and fixed the vast majority of its weaknesses, especially in the battery department. Flip foldables are becoming popular due to their relatively lower price than the Galaxy Folds of the world, the big hit of Star Trek-fueled nostalgia, and the ability to fold a phone into a small pocket square.

Best power banks in 2023

Gaurav Shukla — Sun, 07 May 2023 10:30:16 GMT

The best power banks make it easy to charge wherever you go, whether you need to juice up your phone or your laptop. Even the best Android phones and best Chromebooks can use a bit of battery help now and then. A portable power bank will help you get through busy work days, network tethering, hectic travel, and extended camping or festival trips. They're also great for emergencies when you need a charge, and no working AC outlet is nearby.

10 best match-3 games on Android in 2023

John Bradbury — Sun, 07 May 2023 10:01:16 GMT

There's something intangibly satisfying about match-3 games, especially ones designed for the best Android phones. A perfect example of "easy to learn, hard to master," making blocks explode in a shower of spoils is weirdly absorbing; and laid back enough to play idly while doing something else. They're ideal for smaller screens, with simple inputs and mechanics that only require small adjustments. You can get many of Android's best games on the Play Store, and AP has a roundup of the best match-3 titles to further build out the list. Get yourself the perfect game for quick and simple challenges with these incredible match-3 games.

How to remove or add cards to your Google Wallet or Google Pay

Jon Gilbert — Sun, 07 May 2023 09:30:16 GMT

Google's digital wallet, called Google Wallet, can store transit passes, loyalty cards, and gift cards, just like its competitor Samsung Pay. It can be an adequate replacement for your physical cards, but you'll need to know how to add and remove them to use the app effectively.

Best Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra cases in 2023

Ara Wagoner — Sat, 06 May 2023 20:01:17 GMT

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a more significant upgrade than expected, especially in international markets where the old Exynos chips were yeeted out of existence in favor of the superior Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Like most modern flagship phones, the S23 Ultra is a metal and glass sandwich, and while those materials have been upgraded to armored aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, they'll still damage easily when dropped.

The best Google Nest Hub mounts and stands in 2023

Swarna Karmakar — Sat, 06 May 2023 20:01:17 GMT

The Google Nest Hub is a fantastic device that connects directly to smart appliances like lights, fans, air conditioners, smart TVs, and more. It also responds to everything you say to it. From music and videos to alarms and sleep sensing, the Nest Hub is your one-stop control and entertainment panel for your smart home. But simply having a Nest Hub won't do you much good if you don't have a designated area to put it.

The best Philips Hue smart lights & bulbs for 2023

Conor Cawley — Sat, 06 May 2023 19:47:16 GMT

With reliable bulbs, comprehensive feature sets, and compatibility with virtually every smart home system, Philips Hue has established itself as the go-to choice among high-end smart lighting brands. More than just a standard smart light bulb, Philips Hue offers bulbs in every size, shape, and style you can imagine. However, while they're easy to use and can do great things on their own, Philips Hue bulbs require a separate Hue Bridge to use more advanced features like scenes and away-from-home control.

Google Search may soon get a big AI makeover

Chethan Rao — Sat, 06 May 2023 17:42:35 GMT

The emergence of AI chatbots like OpenAI's ChatGPT has caused a considerable ripple in tech and its neighboring sectors. While Microsoft appears to be in the driver's seat with hefty investments in ChatGPT, and by consequence, its Bing-powered chatbot, Google is making its own moves to garner an advantage in this highly competitive sector with Bard. Just days before Google I/O 2023, a new report is providing inside info on the company's plans for the future of Google Search — a revamped list of search results filled with social media posts, short-video content, and engaging AI-based conversations.

WhatsApp could soon let you report spam and inappropriate messages in group chats

Chethan Rao — Sat, 06 May 2023 17:30:53 GMT

WhatsApp has grown leaps and bounds since its inception over a decade ago. While there were a few stumbles along the way, specifically with regard to privacy, the fact remains that WhatsApp is one of the most frequently used encrypted messaging apps out there. Groups are an integral part of the WhatsApp experience, allowing participants to share texts and media with each other. Admins play the role of keeping things in order in addition to moderating content, and the task is infinitely harder when the size of the group exceeds 100 or more participants. An upcoming WhatsApp feature is looking to remedy this by allowing group members to flag a message or media, which would then be passed on to the admin for review.

Trade your crappy old earbuds to take $80 off the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

Cody Lee — Sat, 06 May 2023 17:18:42 GMT

If you have an old pair of working headphones or earbuds lying around, wired or otherwise, Samsung is willing to give you $50 for them as a trade-in towards its popular Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. That's in addition to the $30 instant rebate it's already offering on the Buds, giving you a total discount of $80. That brings the Buds 2 Pro down to just $150 — an excellent price when you consider that they offer great sound, impressive ANC, and are one of the top picks in our best wireless earbuds roundup.

EarFun Air Pro 3 review: Budget buds that punch above their class

Mark Knapp — Sat, 06 May 2023 15:00:16 GMT

If you’re asking yourself whether a cheap pair of wireless earbuds can offer similar quality to options costing two to three times as much, I have news for you. The EarFun Air 3 Pro are shockingly cheap for a pair of earbuds that appear to offer so much from a quick skim of the feature list, and they hold up impressively well.

How to connect Discord voice chat with your Xbox

Jon Gilbert — Sat, 06 May 2023 12:31:16 GMT

Using Discord on your Xbox console is easier than you think. While your Xbox has everything you need to voice chat, sometimes you'll want to enjoy a cross-platform game with friends or chat with people who aren't using an Xbox. Connecting your accounts is quick and easy; you only need the Discord and Xbox apps.

Best smart thermostats that support Google Assistant in 2023

Suzanne Humphries — Sat, 06 May 2023 12:00:17 GMT

Thermostats are among the most useful smart home devices out there, and there are tons of great smart thermostats to choose from, with more worthwhile choices hitting the market regularly. Not only are we fans of staying comfortable and saving on energy bills, but we also love user-friendly voice control, courtesy of the wildly popular Google Assistant.

9 GitHub alternatives you'll want to try for your next project

Charnita Fance — Sat, 06 May 2023 10:30:16 GMT

If you're a software developer, you're likely familiar with GitHub, a platform that allows you to collaborate, share, and manage projects with other developers. However, sometimes you're not always at your desktop, and you need a mobile solution to manage your projects on your Android device. While GitHub does offer a mobile app, it may not meet all your needs, and you might want to explore other options. That's where the best GitHub alternative Android apps come into play.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 vs. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: Last gen price, current-gen performance

Taylor Kerns — Sat, 06 May 2023 10:30:16 GMT

Since the release of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, the previous-gen Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic aren't Samsung's top-of-the-line wearables anymore. But Samsung's 2021 smartwatches haven't been made obsolete by the Watch 5 series. The Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are still among the best Android smartwatches you can buy, and increasingly frequent discounts make them all the more appealing.

How to find your lost Samsung phone

Hagop Kavafian — Sat, 06 May 2023 10:17:16 GMT

Do you use your phone to communicate with loved ones, save pictures and memories, and work while away from the office? Do you take it everywhere with you? When your phone is a regular part of your day, losing a phone or tablet can affect your personal and professional life. Luckily, Samsung smartphone lineup ships with a built-in solution to locate and administer them remotely called SmartThings Find. It finds a lost device and locks or erases it to protect your privacy.

Farlight 84 guide: A new hero shooter enters the ring

Faith Leroux — Sat, 06 May 2023 10:00:16 GMT

Another stylish battle royale enters the ring; this time, it's Farlight 84, a hero shooter battle royale set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Battle royales have been on the rise since PUBG, Fortnite, and Apex. Android has a fair share of impressive battle royales, and now Farlight 84 is here to make a name for itself, gunning for Apex Legends Mobile's vacant spot. But how does this title fare against the competition on your favorite Android gaming phone? We've created a beginner's guide breaking down Farlight 84's gameplay and systems you should expect to experience during your first few jumps.

Google Bard comes to Workspace account holders

Rajesh Pandey — Sat, 06 May 2023 09:44:01 GMT

Following all the AI announcements from Microsoft and OpenAI at the beginning of the year, Google joined the party with Bard in early February. The AI-powered chatbot was then made available for beta testing in selected countries through a waitlist in March 2023. However, in typical Google fashion, Workspace account holders were not invited to the party, with Bard being limited to regular Gmail users. That's changing now, as Google has opened up Bard's waitlist for Workspace accounts.

How to turn off your iPhone

Tyler Lacoma — Sat, 06 May 2023 09:28:17 GMT

iPhone beginners find a very streamlined design in the latest Apple iPhones, a design Apple continues to make even more minimalist. Like many recent Android models, you won't find many buttons, most are now replaced with Face ID and swiping motions, and the existing buttons tend to have multiple uses.

Google and Samsung partner to fix one of Android’s biggest annoyances

Rajesh Pandey — Sat, 06 May 2023 05:20:52 GMT

One of Android's biggest annoyances is how different devices handle background services. While Google has a set of guidelines on how background processes should be handled, Android manufacturers tweak their behavior to improve their devices' battery efficiency. Mostly, this breaks the app's intended behavior and offers a poor user experience. At I/O 2022, the company revealed its efforts to fix Android's background app issues. We saw the fruit of those labor with Android 14, which brings several changes for foreground services. Going a step further, Google is announcing a deeper partnership with Samsung to deliver a more consistent experience.

Passkeys are the future, and Google has the data to back it up

Chandraveer Mathur — Fri, 05 May 2023 21:19:26 GMT

Google takes online security quite seriously, and the company recently announced the official switch to passkeys, helping keep accounts more secure than passwords. There are several elements which make passkeys more secure than the only other widely used authentication system, but it would take more than just security to convince users to ditch a system they have been using for decades. Thankfully, Google has two promising statistics to sway your judgment.

Google Pixel 7a: Everything we know so far

Will Sattelberg — Fri, 05 May 2023 20:45:32 GMT

The Google Pixel 6a made its mark as one of the best budget Android phones in 2022, thanks to its powerful hardware, great cameras, and premium construction. Anyone who wants an affordable phone with power that rivals flagships can't go wrong with Google's latest offering — especially considering the steep discounts we've seen at retailers across the web.

Google Tasks may be coming to the ChromeOS system tray

Taylor Kerns — Fri, 05 May 2023 20:36:15 GMT

Currently, there isn't a convenient way to access Google Tasks from a desktop computer. While Google services like Calendar and Keep have their own fully featured web apps, Google Tasks is squirreled away behind a side panel menu inside those other services. You've long been able to work around this on ChromeOS by using the Tasks Android app, but now, it seems Google's working on integrating your Tasks right into ChromeOS's system tray.

Bard AI in Google Messages could be the writing assistant you never knew you needed

Louis Pavlakos — Fri, 05 May 2023 20:29:00 GMT

Google Messages has tried to help users compose text messages for years with its Smart Reply feature, but in some instances, they're just not that great. In an effort to expand the usability of automatic replies, Google has been looking for ways to implement Bard into its messaging app and it could be nearing completion.

Google's not wasting any time on Pixel Watch 2 plans, according to Pixel 8 launch rumors

Louis Pavlakos — Fri, 05 May 2023 20:05:36 GMT

The Pixel Watch was Google's first attempt at making a proper wearable, and while it was neat enough to earn a spot on our list of the best Android smartwatches, it ultimately came up a little short in terms of things like battery life. We've been hugely curious what might change — and hopefully get even better — for a successor, but it's been difficult to nail down Google's plans for a follow-up. Now a new rumor suggests the Pixel Watch 2 could arrive earlier than you might think, possibly alongside the Pixel 8 this fall.

Best waterproof headphones & earbuds for swimming in 2023

James Holland — Fri, 05 May 2023 20:00:16 GMT

Listening to music while in the water requires waterproof headphones made for swimming. And while most earbuds are made to handle some moisture — like protecting against a sweaty workout — they are not made to handle extended periods of time in or underwater.

Galaxy Z Flip 5 cover screen overhaul picks up new support in latest leak

Jay Bonggolto — Fri, 05 May 2023 19:50:20 GMT

The cover screen size is likely to be a major competitive advantage for foldable flip phones in the future, with the Oppo Find N2 Flip laying the groundwork. Supersized cover displays will be a handy improvement given that they're the ones users see most of the time when their phone is closed. A larger cover display allows users to get more done with their phone without having to open it. We've previously heard that Samsung's next clamshell foldable may be leaning towards a larger cover screen with a folder shape, and a new leak backs up that claim.

HTC is teasing its next phone on social media, no matter how much we beg it to stop

Will Sattelberg — Fri, 05 May 2023 19:39:45 GMT

A couple of weeks ago, I found some time between massive, high-profile phone launches to take a trip down memory lane by revisiting the HTC One M7. The phone, which turned ten this year, is one of my favorite Android phones ever, and really helped cement the concept of what a flagship device could and should be. But, as we all know, the HTC we once loved is long gone, having sold off its phones division to Google years ago. And now, with another zombie HTC phone seemingly on the way, I'm here to beg for the company to please, please, quit while it's ~~ahead~~ behind. Please, leave well enough alone.

Save over $400 on this 4K Xgimi smart projector and put your TV to shame

Troy Fleming — Fri, 05 May 2023 19:13:32 GMT

If you're after the ultimate home theater setup, but you haven't considered checking out a projector, here's a deal that may just change your mind. Projectors have come a long way since they first made their way into the market, with many now offering the same features that you'd find with smart TVs.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 may reuse the OG Flip’s cover display camouflage trick

Chandraveer Mathur — Fri, 05 May 2023 19:05:40 GMT

Smartphones have tried long and hard to ditch hole-punch cutouts in favor of inconspicuous under-display cameras, but implementations don’t always look the prettiest. However, hiding a display is somewhat easier, as we saw with the original Samsung Galaxy Flip. Supposedly, the South Korean brand is attempting to recreate this illusion on the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 5.

Waze kills most voice commands on Android Auto

Emily Price — Fri, 05 May 2023 18:35:12 GMT

Waze has always been a fun alternative to Google Maps. While both are owned by Google, the app has a cartoonish interface and often offers amusing voice integrations like this week’s new addition of The Jonas Brothers. Waze also recently added support for Android Auto’s “Coolwalk” view, which allows users to see things like info on the music they have playing and incoming text messages on their dashboard alongside maps.

WhatsApp upgrades polls and gets smarter about captions

Samuel Dunsiger — Fri, 05 May 2023 18:27:21 GMT

Everybody knows WhatsApp as one of the world’s most popular communication platforms, and it's consistently made our list as one of the top encrypted messaging apps. However, there's still room to improve, and we're constantly seeing the service try out new features, like recent tweaks to make creating polls and forwarding messages easier. Those upgrades, which include the ability to create single-vote polls and add captions for context to forwarded messages, were initially only available to beta testers, but are now finally being rolled out to stable users.

Google Photos shines the spotlight on Memories as it dials up the nostalgia

Louis Pavlakos — Fri, 05 May 2023 18:17:39 GMT

Google Photos is a convenient way of keeping all your photos in one place. While it started as a simple gallery app with smart search features, it's already become much more robust with Google having recently introduced a video editing tool in the app on Chromebooks. To make sure you don't forget about your fondest memories, Google could soon introduce a Memories feed baked right into the homepage.

Google explains why its Pixel wallpapers are for the birds

Emily Price — Fri, 05 May 2023 18:10:12 GMT

When it comes to smartphone wallpaper, your options are most often geometric shapes and colors or maybe, if you’re lucky, some sort of landscape view or artist rendering. For the Pixel, the Google design team wanted to try something a little different, specifically something that “viewed technology through a living lens,” leading the team to focus a set of wallpaper on birds.

Best Asus Zenfone 9 cases in 2023

Steve Smith — Fri, 05 May 2023 18:00:18 GMT

The Asus Zenfone 9 sports a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and a 5.9-inch display, making it a compact powerhouse compared to many other high-performing smartphones. But don’t let the smaller nature of this device fool you; it’s still one of the best Android phones you can buy.

The best new movies you can watch at home right now

Cody Toombs — Fri, 05 May 2023 16:54:40 GMT

Streaming services have taken over as one of the best ways to catch the latest movies. Whether they're making a stop in theaters before rolling out digital rentals or they launch as first-run originals from the likes of Netflix, Apple TV, or HBO; we're rounding up the best titles so you're not left in the dark — until it's time to start the film, that is. Check back each week (usually on Friday) to see the latest additions for movies that are now available to stream, the latest theatrical releases, and movies coming next week.

Get ready for even more ads in Gmail

Louis Pavlakos — Fri, 05 May 2023 15:42:52 GMT

For as useful as Gmail is, Google is always striving to make it a better experience. The company recently introduced a Twitter-like checkmark in the email app for companies to prove their legitimacy and began testing generative AI tools to help people write. Still, with every good feature comes a not-so-good one as more ads will now start showing up in every corner of Gmail.

Nothing Phone 1 is getting an update, but maybe not the one you're hoping for

Emily Price — Fri, 05 May 2023 15:20:25 GMT

In January, Nothing’s first smartphone, the Nothing Phone 1 officially made its way to the United States. The highly anticipated phone offers a clean Android skin with no bloatware and a unique, premium design that sets it apart from its competition. We’ve also already started to hear things about the company’s second phone, Nothing Phone 2, which is expected to carry over the transparent rear glass design while adding a larger battery and better camera, ultimately making the device a more premium offering than its first release.

Pluto TV founder wants to give you a free TV littered with ads

Chandraveer Mathur — Fri, 05 May 2023 15:02:57 GMT

Content consumption has changed drastically in the last decade. The best streaming services have now eclipsed cable TV, DVD video, and other forms of broadcast media. Ads have been a constant throughout, though, even as recently as with Netflix’s ad-supported streaming tier. However, the co-founder of Pluto TV believes ads should take up more time in our content enjoyment experience — all of it.

Onyx Boox Tab X review: I wish I had this in college

Manuel Vonau — Fri, 05 May 2023 15:00:16 GMT

Onyx has made a name for itself with its high-end E Ink readers and tablets, offering the full Android and Google experience on E Ink screens. Most recently, the company released the Onyx Boox Tab Ultra, a 10-inch note-taking powerhouse. However, tablets are growing bigger and bigger these days, and that 10-inch screen still doesn’t give you the full letter-sized paper experience. That’s where Onyx’s new tablet comes in, the Boox Tab X.

Google Home's lighting control picks up a long-awaited facelift

Jay Bonggolto — Fri, 05 May 2023 14:18:16 GMT

Google has made a number of improvements to the user experience of the Home app since its redesign was released for public preview last year, including changes to its look and feel as well as a slew of new features. One of the long-awaited tweaks that has yet to appear on the app is a redesigned lighting control, but that has changed with a new Google Home update.

WhatsApp will soon let you silence calls from all strangers

Chethan Rao — Fri, 05 May 2023 14:08:55 GMT

As one of the world's most widely used messaging apps, WhatsApp has its ups and downs. Using the app to keep in touch with our loved ones regardless of distance is one of the benefits. But the barrage of telemarketing or spam calls has been an ugly side effect of the app's popularity. With millions using WhatsApp daily, one would imagine a feature to silence unknown callers would be built in. But that's currently not the case. Fortunately, the folks at WhatsApp are working on a way to silence all unknown callers with a simple toggle within the settings.

What is Apple Arcade?

Jon Gilbert — Fri, 05 May 2023 13:31:17 GMT

Even if you've never owned an iOS device, you may be aware of Apple Arcade, Apple's games subscription service on the App Store. While it's not as good a value as Play Pass on Android, Apple Arcade is still a worthwhile subscription for any iOS user.

8 best Lego games on Android in 2023

Daniel Allen — Fri, 05 May 2023 12:30:16 GMT

Despite the fact that more Lego games have been taken off the Play Store than are currently available, they remain some of the most replayable and fun games available. Even if you're not playing one of Traveller's Tales massively popular tie-in games, you know that a Lego game is going to have a minimum level of polish and enjoyability. If you don't feel like digging through the Lego catalog on the Play Store to find the best Android games out there, don't worry, AP's got you covered. And if you need a new phone to play all these games, there are plenty to meet your needs.

Google I/O 2023: News, dates, and what to expect

Manuel Vonau — Fri, 05 May 2023 12:02:11 GMT

Google I/O is right around the corner, and it's probably the event that Google and Android fans are looking forward to the most. Granted, the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro event that will likely take place in fall is another close contender. But until we get to have these new devices in our hands, Google I/O will almost certainly be filled to the brim with exciting Android 14 news, the launch of the Google Pixel 7a and the Pixel Fold, as well as AI announcements. Now that the official schedule is out, here is everything we know so far.

Best Samsung XCover6 Pro cases in 2023

Steve Smith — Fri, 05 May 2023 12:00:17 GMT

If you are looking for something different and more durable than the Samsung Galaxy S23 series, then the Samsung Galaxy XCover6 Pro may be what you are looking for. This phone is strong enough to pass the rigorous MIL-STD-810H testing and can withstand whatever you throw at it. The Galaxy XCover6 Pro is hands down one of the best rugged Android phones on the market.

Why am I getting a "Google Drive blocked by administrator" message?

Jon Gilbert — Fri, 05 May 2023 10:30:16 GMT

If you’re attempting to use Google Drive on a Google Workspace account, you may encounter a message informing you that your administrator has blocked Google Drive. This can be a frustrating message, especially if you’re trying to share Drive files or collaborate. If you’ve just picked up a budget Chromebook for work on the go, you’ll want to get this sorted immediately so you can use your new device!

Can Chromebooks get viruses?

Cale Hunt — Fri, 05 May 2023 10:30:16 GMT

Chromebooks, since their inception, have had a reputation as being particularly secure against viruses and malware. Quoting Google, the ChromeOS operating system uses "the principle of 'defense in depth' to provide multiple layers of protection" to keep systems safe. These layers include everything from frequent updates with guaranteed support for years to built-in encryption and restricted sandbox environments for web pages. There's a lot to unpack here, and though the answer to the classic virus infecting your Chromebook is "slim to no chance," there are other ways that bad actors might attempt to hijack your laptop.

Google Chrome releases: What's new in every version

Manuel Vonau — Fri, 05 May 2023 10:13:57 GMT

Google Chrome is probably the browser everyone is using. When it launched back in 2008, it was lauded as a super-small, resource-saving program that wasn't even feature-complete, but that has long changed. After its long and winding march to market domination, the browser received more features, grew in size, and is now known as an absolute resource hog and data collection engine.

How many characters are available in Genshin Impact in 2023?

Faith Leroux — Fri, 05 May 2023 10:00:17 GMT

Don't worry if you're a late bloomer recently uncovering Genshin Impact; the game has resisted power creep, meaning older, lower rarity units are just as viable to play today as they were in the beginning. Genshin Impact, one of the best gachas on Android, has earned billions of dollars and isn't slowing down anytime soon; the number of units coming out yearly is consistently impressive.

Best budget Android phones 2023

Taylor Kerns — Fri, 05 May 2023 10:00:17 GMT

It wasn't long ago that buying a budget smartphone meant you were probably in for a bad time: crummy performance, paltry update support, and maybe even Micro-USB charging (the horror!). These days, not so much. Some of the best cheap Android phones start under 200 bucks, and they're not that different from the absolute best Android flagship phone we recommend.

How to check notification history on your Android phone

Daniel Allen — Fri, 05 May 2023 09:31:17 GMT

Similar to the Inbox Zero philosophy for email, many prefer to keep their Android phone's notification center clean. Although swiping away notifications can give you a sense of accomplishment, you might miss an important alert. If you inadvertently dismiss a promotional alert from Amazon or a new comment on a Google Docs document, you don't need to open the app to check the missed alert. With a few taps, you can find the lost notification in the notification history menu in your Settings. Here's how to do it on a stock Android and One UI running on the best Samsung Galaxy phones.

Samsung Galaxy S23 review: A small success

Ara Wagoner — Fri, 05 May 2023 09:00:17 GMT

Between the practicality of the Galaxy S23+ and the majesty of the Galaxy S23 Ultra, it’s hard for the Samsung Galaxy S23 to escape their shadows. But the Galaxy S23 fills a couple of important niches in the smartphone market.

How to use Google Fact Check Explorer to verify news online

Alan Truly — Fri, 05 May 2023 08:49:17 GMT

The internet is an excellent resource for keeping current on the latest news. However, fake news is still rampant despite ongoing prevention, monitoring, and cleanup efforts. That's why you need to learn about Google's fact-checking tool.

Google Chat will let you quote messages, making channels even more cluttered

Chethan Rao — Fri, 05 May 2023 08:26:08 GMT

Google Chat has seen a big overhaul since it absorbed the beloved Hangouts app. The service enjoys all the conventional chat features, including groups and individual texts. One of the pet peeves of people who use Google Chat is the lack of messaging quoting in replies. This generally wouldn't be considered a major omission since the app already offers in-line threads. But it's always nice to have that extra option in a communications app, and Google will recognize that with a new server-side update to the app rolling out now.

Google Pixel 7a leaks won’t stop: hands-on and teardown videos pop up

Rajesh Pandey — Fri, 05 May 2023 08:25:17 GMT

The Google Pixel 7a is rumored to launch alongside the Pixel Tablet and the Pixel Fold at Google I/O 2023 in a few days. However, almost everything about the phone has leaked in all its glory, including hands-on images, marketing materials, and more. On its part, Google has only confirmed a new Pixel phone launch for May 11 in India. Now, adding insult to injury, teardown and first impression videos of Google's upcoming mid-ranger have also popped up online ahead of its debut.

The OnePlus Nord 3 could bring back this surprisingly useful retro feature

Louis Pavlakos — Thu, 04 May 2023 22:11:00 GMT

Long before smart TVs and streaming sticks had their own dedicated smartphone apps for controlling them, many phones had IR blasters that could emulate a TV's remote. While the vast majority of smartphones did away with that feature many years ago, we just might be seeing it again soon, with the upcoming OnePlus Nord 3 rumored to feature IR support.

Car manufacturers might suck the fun out out of Material You on Android Automotive

Louis Pavlakos — Thu, 04 May 2023 21:43:22 GMT

For many years, Android Auto has provided most drivers with a competent-if-flawed option to map out their trips and listen to their favorite music, but some newer cars are replacing this feature with Android Automotive, a dedicated operating system for automobiles. While this OS has been around since 2017, it's been slow to adapt to Google's aesthetic. That could change soon, as Material You themes could start making their way to Android Automotive — with a catch.

Kindle Scribe drops to best price yet, if you have Amazon Prime

Gabriela Vatu — Thu, 04 May 2023 21:28:31 GMT

The Amazon Kindle Scribe e-reader has been out for a few months, and we enjoyed quite a few of its features. With a 10.2-inch E Ink screen, you can use this Kindle version for manga and comic books a lot more comfortably than any of the previous models. You can get the Kindle Scribe in three storage options — 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB — so you'll have to figure out just how much space you actually need for all your e-books, files, and comics.

Google wants to bring the AI power of Bard to your Pixel's home screen

Louis Pavlakos — Thu, 04 May 2023 20:55:45 GMT

Google Bard may not be quite as powerful as OpenAI's ChatGPT, but new additions, like the ability to code, bring it one step closer to being proper competition. As Bard continues to mature, Google wants to expand its reach by attempting to bring it to Pixel devices through a widget.

Google blends AI with art to create these fantastic casual games

Chandraveer Mathur — Thu, 04 May 2023 20:38:23 GMT

Our concept of art evolves with the passage of time, and undeniably, artificial intelligence and machine learning are the next stepping stone in this evolutionary journey. Although the uniqueness of AI-generated art is debatable for the time being, people and big tech companies alike aren’t afraid to experiment with AI art tools. Proving this point, Google’s Arts & Culture department has four new AI-powered artsy experiments you should check out.

Google Pixel Buds Pro vs. Pixel Buds (2020): Should you upgrade?

James Holland — Thu, 04 May 2023 20:00:17 GMT

Google has been trying to come up with something to compete with the best wireless earbuds for a while now. Their original offerings are best left in the past. But, their current offerings, consisting of the Google Pixel Buds Pro and the budget-oriented Google Pixel Buds A-Series, are worth consideration, especially for Pixel phone users. We’ve already compared those two if you’re trying to pick between them.

Android 13 QPR3 Beta 3.1 is here with plenty of bug fixes for Pixel phones

Dallas Thomas — Thu, 04 May 2023 18:51:30 GMT

Google's update schedule has gotten pretty hectic in recent weeks. The May security update was just seeded, and meanwhile, the company is running two simultaneous beta programs to test both Android 14 and the June 2023 Pixel Feature Drop. The latter is in development as Android 13 QPR3, and Google has just released a Beta 3.1 update for this version.

Pixel Fold: Everything we know about Google's foldable

Manuel Vonau — Thu, 04 May 2023 18:21:58 GMT

After years of rumors, Google has finally confirmed the Pixel Fold is in the works. Although we'll have to wait until Google I/O on May 10th for specific details, the company has finally teased its existence on social media. It's a device that's been in the works for a long time, as Google first confirmed to CNET that it was experimenting with the form factor in 2019, while Android 12L's launch in late 2021 cemented its focus on big-screen experiences.

Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i vs. Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go: Which laptop is right for you?

Cale Hunt — Thu, 04 May 2023 18:00:17 GMT

Lenovo's Chromebook Flex 5i is one of the best Chromebooks on the market today thanks to its versatile convertible build, snappy performance, and seriously competitive pricing. The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go is another great option, especially if you're shopping for one of the best cheap Chromebooks out there. It's compact and mobile, it comes with optional 4G LTE connectivity for staying in touch even outside of Wi-Fi range, and it's also very much on the affordable side of the laptop market. These Chromebooks share some similarities, but they're designed for different users. We compare them to help you make the right decision when it comes time to buy.

Google officially reveals the Pixel Fold ahead of I/O 2023

Dallas Thomas — Thu, 04 May 2023 17:45:10 GMT

We've been tracking the Pixel Fold for months, and recent leaks have seemed to point toward a Google I/O 2023 announcement on May 10. Now, after Google unexpectedly tweeted a render video and set a product page live, the foldable has gone official.

The first OnePlus foldable phone could launch in August

Louis Pavlakos — Thu, 04 May 2023 17:05:01 GMT

It seems like nearly every phone manufacturer is trying to release its own foldable device. Between Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Google's elusive (but maybe not for much longer) Pixel Fold, everyone wants in on the action. We've already heard to expect OnePlus launching its first foldable phone this year, and now the release date could be closer than ever.

You can soon stop Google Chrome's Memory Saver on your favorite websites

Chandraveer Mathur — Thu, 04 May 2023 16:09:44 GMT

The fact that Chrome is the most commonly used web browser on the planet means that Google has to ensure people have an optimal experience, regardless of the device they use. For a resource intensive browser like Chrome, the Memory Saver feature introduced in February this year is rather important. Gradually, Google is making this utility more customizable. To this effect, the latest Chrome Canary has a new button to prevent Memory Saver from closing specific websites.

Cooler Master Storm Controller review: You get what you pay for

Jon Gilbert — Thu, 04 May 2023 15:00:16 GMT

Cooler Master’s Storm Controller is an Android and Windows gaming controller that aims to offer the essentials at a great value. I spent the last few weeks testing the Storm Controller to see how it stacks up against the best Android controllers on the market. While its massive battery sets it apart from many of its competitors, cheap construction and mushy buttons make it hard to recommend.

Dashlane helps you ditch your master password for good

Karandeep Singh — Thu, 04 May 2023 14:41:49 GMT

Passwords are the bane of our modern internet life — you must set one up for each service you use, remember them, and they’re prone to phishing and leaks, too. While passkeys are slowly bringing some respite, with Google being the latest to jump on the bandwagon, we still can’t seem to ditch the master passwords for our password managers. Dashlane wants to change that by bringing a passwordless login solution to its own password manager, but its alternate login method isn’t a passkey.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite vs. Kindle Oasis: A tale of two Kindles

Luke Filipowicz — Thu, 04 May 2023 14:00:17 GMT

Your digital library of books and audiobooks needs a home, and since Amazon has long been producing some of the best e-readers with its Kindle lineup, it's no surprise that one or two of its Kindle devices may have caught your eye. Both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kindle Oasis offer a great reading experience and deserve to be in your top consideration for your next e-reader, but is the premium price of the Oasis really worth it?

What’s new in Google Chrome 114 Beta: Auto-verify captchas

Manuel Vonau — Thu, 04 May 2023 13:44:27 GMT

Only a week after releasing Chrome 113 in early stable (with the full rollout beginning just a few days ago), Google is already at it with the next version: Chrome 114 has graced the beta channel, now available to anyone who is willing to test upcoming features at the expense of just a little bit of stability. The new Chrome release is packed with some new additions and progress in Chrome’s big 2023 redesign for desktop, so let’s dive right in.

Samsung One UI 5 Watch will launch on this year's new Galaxy smartwatches

Taylor Kerns — Thu, 04 May 2023 13:03:42 GMT

Samsung, like many tech companies, has a habit of releasing incremental updates to its software with each new hardware iteration. Today, Samsung's announced that it's sticking to that tradition with this year's upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch devices, which will launch with the new One UI 5 Watch. A beta for the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 5 series is coming soon, too.

12 great Android games you can also play on PC

John Bradbury — Thu, 04 May 2023 12:31:17 GMT

The PC and mobile platforms used to be very different in both scale and design philosophy. Popular Android apps like Vampire Survivors and Downwell are modern examples of the mobile platforms' stream-lined primary loops, eschewing graphics in favor of gameplay designed for portable devices. But as mobile devices became more advanced and mobile development grew more ambitious, some games designed for the best Android phones now have access to the complex and precise trappings of the PC platform. It can be a challenge to find the best of these little crossovers, so take a look at this roundup of the best Android games that have found new life on PC, and pick out your next mark.

The best Acer Chromebooks in 2023

Cale Hunt — Thu, 04 May 2023 12:00:17 GMT

There are a lot of different Chromebooks on the market today, with many different manufacturers entering the arena to offer their specific brands of computing. Acer, in particular, makes a variety of Chromebooks, ranging from compact budget laptops to high-end gaming laptops.

Google Docs: How to add drop-down menus to your document

Alan Truly — Thu, 04 May 2023 11:01:16 GMT

Google Docs is a fantastic online word processor, and it's easy to streamline repetitive tasks using dropdowns. With a few helpful tips, you'll be able to take advantage of this powerful feature in your documents.

WhatsApp’s bottom bar takes another step towards launch on Android

Rajesh Pandey — Thu, 04 May 2023 10:44:49 GMT

WhatsApp is now routinely adding new features to its platform. While this allows it to top our list of the best texting apps for Android, its UI leaves a lot to be desired. This is despite WhatsApp being among the first Android apps to adopt Material Design in 2015. Since then, though, the app's interface has only received minor UI improvements. This could soon change as WhatsApp has rolled out a bottom navigation bar to select beta testers of its app.

What is Samsung TV Plus?

Parth Shah — Thu, 04 May 2023 10:44:17 GMT

Samsung is one of the biggest TV and smartphone manufacturers in the world. It's logical for the company to bundle its streaming service with TVs, top Galaxy smartphones, and tablets. In 2015, Samsung introduced Samsung TV Plus, a free, ad-supported streaming service with live TV channels, on its televisions and later expanded it to Galaxy devices. Here's everything you need to know about Samsung TV Plus.

Best OnePlus 10T cases in 2023

Jesse Hollington — Thu, 04 May 2023 10:30:16 GMT

The OnePlus 10T is a fascinating entry in the company's lineup: A second-tier model that actually delivers more raw power than the flagship OnePlus 10 Pro, with a top-notch Snapdragon 8 Gen 1+ CPU, more RAM, and even faster charging. It mostly falls short of its pricier sibling in the camera system, but if you're looking for one of the best OnePlus phones with great value and advanced photography isn't a priority, it's hard to go wrong with the OnePlus 10T.

A fix for Google Messages breaking on Android 14 is rolling out

Chandraveer Mathur — Thu, 04 May 2023 10:02:36 GMT

Android 14 recently moved from the developer beta stage to a public beta, but the first build every Pixel user could install was chock-full of bugs. Google issued a fix two weeks later, but the new Android 14 Beta 1.1 is now causing issues for the Google Messages app beta, which is repeatedly crashing. Thankfully, Google has already rolled out a fix.

8 reasons you should subscribe to Amazon Luna in 2023

Faith Leroux — Thu, 04 May 2023 10:00:17 GMT

It was only a matter of time before corporate giant Amazon entered the great race for the best game streaming service. Now with Google Stadia out of action, Amazon Luna provides more than enough horsepower to be a suitable replacement for top-tier games streamed on your favorite Android gaming phone. But, of course, with cloud gaming on the rise, Amazon Luna has to stand confidently against frontrunners like Microsoft's xCloud and Nvidia's GeForce Now. So, with Amazon Luna officially expanding outside the US and reaching global gamers, we've assembled a guide that covers precisely why Amazon's premium streaming platform deserves a shot at the top.

The Galaxy S23 FE could have a major camera upgrade in store

Jay Bonggolto — Thu, 04 May 2023 09:20:50 GMT

The Fan Edition phones are a more affordable version of Samsung's greatest phones, and they typically have decent cameras, although they are not traditionally on par with their flagship counterparts. The Galaxy S20 FE and S21 FE, for example, shared the same 12MP main sensor, whereas their more expensive siblings had a 64MP primary camera. If Samsung does plan to continue the Fan Edition line with a Galaxy S23 FE, it is likely that the new model will have an upgraded camera similar to the vanilla Galaxy S23 and S23+, as per a new rumor.

What is BeReal? The app that offers ‘uncontrollable’ social media explained

James Peckham — Thu, 04 May 2023 08:41:16 GMT

BeReal provides a more authentic version of social media than what you're used to on your favorite social apps. It helps you share moments in your life instantly from your iOS and Android phones. Every day, you get a notification to take a photo of what you're doing and share it with friends while trying to beat a countdown. There's no pressure to build follower counts or increase the likes on your posts. But there's a catch.

WhatsApp is making missed calls more visible

Chethan Rao — Thu, 04 May 2023 08:34:43 GMT

WhatsApp is ubiquitous among the top encrypted messaging apps in the world today. While it's behind apps like Telegram in terms of features, the developers are slowly but surely catching up. Elements like GIF autoplay could finally be landing on the Meta-owned chat app, while tablets are on course to receive a much-needed usability upgrade. Both of these inclusions first appeared in the beta channel, though their arrival on the stable version of the app shouldn't be far away. Similarly, we have another minor addition appearing on WhatsApp beta for Android v2.23.10.4, pertaining to how people view missed WhatsApp calls.

Nothing Phone 2 hype season kicks off with mysterious close-up video

Rajesh Pandey — Thu, 04 May 2023 07:46:08 GMT

Carl Pei-owned Nothing created quite a hype for its first smartphone in 2022, the Nothing Phone 1. This was despite the phone's limited availability in selected European and Indian markets and the device itself being average at best due to its modest internals. Sure, its transparent design made it stand out from the best mid-range Android phones, but the software experience was a letdown. For 2023, the company has confirmed the Nothing Phone 2 will see a wider launch and use a premium Qualcomm chip. With the phone rumored to debut soon, Nothing has begun creating hype around it.

Google’s Find My network could work with existing Bluetooth trackers

Rajesh Pandey — Thu, 04 May 2023 07:34:34 GMT

Google has seemingly been working on its own version of Apple's Find My Network since at least 2021. Over two years later, all signs point to the impending launch of the network, which should make finding your lost or stolen Android phone easier. The "Finder network" should also benefit the rumored Nest tile tracker, which will seemingly be Google's alternative to Apple AirTags. But it won't be the only tracking tag to take advantage of the network, as many existing third-party Bluetooth trackers will reportedly benefit from it as well.

Chrome has a solution for sites constantly asking to prove you're human

Samuel Dunsiger — Wed, 03 May 2023 22:02:47 GMT

Most of us are familiar, often to our frustration, with CAPTCHA systems that ask us time and time again to prove our existence as human beings before we're allowed to interact with some online service. Over the years, folks have voiced their frustrations about these unavoidable puzzles, tasking us with clicking on endless traffic signal and spot-the-bus pop-ups. Salvation may soon be within reach, because now, Google Chrome is working on a solution to seriously reduce the need for those pesky CAPTCHAs.

This 100W hub will charge everything you own for $51

Cody Lee — Wed, 03 May 2023 21:13:08 GMT

Baseus has made quite the name for itself in the affordable charging accessory space these past few years. It produces a wide range of products, at oft-discounted prices, that are revered by both experts and customers alike. One of our favorite Baseus accessories is this 100W PD GaN3 fast charger. It was one of our picks for the best chargers for the Samsung Galaxy S22+ and S22 Ultra, thanks to its power and versatility, and right now it's on sale for just $51 after a one-click coupon on the Amazon product page takes off $15 instantly.