Monday, 31 January 2022

It’s time to say goodbye to Google’s best budget phone in years https://ift.tt/Bg0CHGrVk

Google Pixel 4a back standing up on table 2

Google Pixel 4a
Credit: David Imel / Android Authority
  • The Google Pixel 4a has been delisted from the Google Store.
  • This comes after the phone was reportedly low on stock for months.

Google’s Pixel 4a was released in 2020 but remains arguably the best budget Pixel on the market. Unfortunately, it looks like Google has now stopped selling the phone for good.



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Expecting a charging bump on the Samsung Galaxy S22? You’d be disappointed. https://ift.tt/tSq0b7Gl1

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus Charging USB C

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
  • Information about the charging speeds of the Samsung Galaxy S22 and S22 Plus has leaked.
  • Unfortunately, it looks like the base model won’t gain faster charging this time around.
  • You’ll also have to shell out extra for a charger.

Almost everything there is to know about the Samsung Galaxy S22 trio is out there thanks to numerous leaks and rumors. A lot has also been said about the charging speeds of the new phones, and a new leak now confirms what we’ve been dreading for a while. The vanilla Samsung Galaxy S22 won’t be getting a charging bump this time around.



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$99 off the latest iPad Air, and more of the best iPad deals https://ift.tt/MAD7mk4KN

apple ipad air 2020 review vs ipad pro 2021
Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority

The iPad is almost certainly the first name you think of when you’re looking for a tablet, and it comes in all shapes and sizes. We’ve rounded up the best iPad, and iPad accessory deals right here to help you make your next purchase. So whether you want a top-of-the-line iPad Pro or maximize your portability with the iPad Mini, something should suit your needs.

Featured deals: $99 off the latest iPad Air

Apple iPad Air 4th Gen Amazon Deal



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Leaker says OnePlus Nord 2T is months away. Here’s how much it might cost. https://ift.tt/mf0nVAIbS

OnePlus Nord 2 side profile

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority
  • According to a leaker, the OnePlus Nord 2T might be a few months away even though its specs have already leaked.
  • The leaker has also tipped pricing information for the Nord 2T and the rumored OnePlus Nord 2 CE/Nord CE 2.

Information about OnePlus’ upcoming mid-range model — the OnePlus Nord 2T — emerged last week thanks to a leak that spilled the beans about its specs. But if you were expecting the incremental successor to the Nord 2 to launch anytime soon, you might be disappointed.



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Sunday, 30 January 2022

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G gains Android 12 in the US https://ift.tt/GbtnKzlgV

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip side angle open 2

Welcome to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series update hub! Here you’ll find all the latest information on software updates for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Flip 5G. We’ll tell you what the current software versions are for each device and also give you a heads up when new updates are rolling out.



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February 2022 security patch hits Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series https://ift.tt/Mhf8FyP6J

Welcome to the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 update hub. Here you’ll find the latest information on updates to the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. We’ll detail the current software versions for each device and alert you if there’s a new update rolling out. Samsung usually pushes out updates to the entire series, but this may vary per variant and carrier.

  • Current stable version: Android 12
  • When will the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra get Android 13? March 2023 (Estimated)

Latest Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and Galaxy Note 20 Ultra updates

January 31, 2021: Samsung is once again ahead of Google in rolling out the February security patch and the Galaxy Note 20 series is the first to get it. According to SamMobile, the security update is currently available in only Europe. Needless to say, it should hit other regions soon enough.



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Everything you need to know about MIUI 13 https://ift.tt/h3EBfoLpW

Xiaomi MIUI 13 two phones with new software depicted
Credit: Weibo

Xiaomi officially launched MIUI 13 alongside its 2022 flagship smartphone line, the Xiaomi 12 series.

As one would expect, MIUI 13 comes with many new features and enhancements. The three major categories of updates are performance, security, and design. Below, you’ll find out what you can expect within each of those categories.



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It looks like the OnePlus Nord 2T won’t launch anytime soon https://ift.tt/mf0nVAIbS

OnePlus Nord 2 side profile

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority
  • According to a leaker, the OnePlus Nord 2T might be a few months away even though its specs have already leaked.
  • The leaker has also tipped pricing information for the rumored OnePlus Nord 2 CE/Nord CE 2.

Information about OnePlus’ upcoming mid-range model — the OnePlus Nord 2T — emerged last week thanks to a leak that spilled the beans about its specs. But if you were expecting the incremental successor to the Nord 2 to launch anytime soon, you might be disappointed.



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Samsung Galaxy S21 problems and how to fix them https://ift.tt/0TE4tHmXM

Samsung Galaxy S21 vs S21 Plus vs S21 Ultra 1
Credit: David Imel / Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S21 series has been out for almost a year. Samsung has done a great job fixing any bugs and kinks in that time, but a few issues tend to pop up from time to time, especially after major software updates. We look at some common Samsung Galaxy S21 series problems and how to fix them!

Our verdict: Galaxy S21 review | Galaxy S21 Plus review| Galaxy S21 Ultra review



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These are the 5 features we’d like to see in the 5th gen Amazon Echo https://ift.tt/aELyUuOl4

A blue light ring on the Amazon Echo 4th-gen
Credit: Adam Molina / Android Authority

Today’s smart speakers owe a lot to the original Amazon Echo, so every new flagship Echo model is hotly anticipated by industry watchers — it tends to set the bar for whatever follows. The fourth-generation Echo, released in 2020, has largely kept up that track record. Over a year later, it’s time to ask what we’d want from an Amazon Echo 5th gen model, especially with pressure mounting from companies like Apple, Google, and Sonos.

Matter over Thread

Nanoleaf Shapes panels in a bedroom



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7 ways smartphone brands cheap out on us https://ift.tt/jFQ9Vp7xA

Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro holding the device on the home screen
Credit: Ryan-Thomas Shaw / Android Authority

One of the best things about the modern smartphone industry is how competitive the mid-range and affordable flagship segments have become.

These days, you can find a lot of bang for your buck in the mid-range thanks to phones like the OnePlus Nord 2, Poco F3, and Galaxy A52 series. Shift to the affordable flagship space, and you’ll find devices like the Pixel 6, Galaxy S21 FE, and OnePlus 9 all competing for your cash.



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Google is best when it’s affordable, so why does it chase the premium market? https://ift.tt/Plso8g5cY

Google Pixel 6 vs Google Pixel 5 camera angled
Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
Opinion post by
Robert Triggs

We’re three months on from the launch of the Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, and it’s been far from smooth sailing to say the least. Between an iffy fingerprint scanner, dubious charging metrics, and a completely broken December update, the phone doesn’t look as well polished as it did at its premiere. Some are quickly falling out of love with Google’s latest flagship.

A rocky start will hardly come as a surprise if you’ve followed any of Google’s hardware launches over the past decade. The company has rightly earned a reputation for hit and miss hardware; the Pixel 6 is simply the latest in a long list of troubled devices that are by no means limited to smartphones. While launches do occasionally slip up, we’d certainly expect better from Google, especially when spending up to $1,099 on the 512GB Pixel 6 Pro model.



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What is Web3? Is it the next-generation of the internet or just vaporware? https://ift.tt/Mhf8FyP6J

It’s hard to escape the hype and mania surrounding Web3 — often described as the next generation of the internet based on blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies.

Supporters of this new paradigm claim that it will enable digital ownership over content and art — even bringing an end to Big Tech companies like Amazon and Facebook. Meanwhile, you’ll find no shortage of skeptics and critics that argue the system is fundamentally flawed and threatens to destroy the freedom and openness of the internet.



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How to block ads across your entire home Wi-Fi network with a Raspberry Pi https://ift.tt/Mhf8FyP6J

It’s no secret that online advertisements can sometimes disrupt your web browsing experience. Even on mobile, it’s impossible to escape banner ads, pop-ups, and other unwelcome distractions. Phone and TV manufacturers have also started sneaking advertisements into Android skins and interfaces. Thankfully, there’s an easy way to block ads on your entire Wi-Fi or home network, with hardware as inexpensive as a Raspberry Pi Zero (~$10) and a piece of free software known as Pi-hole. Follow along to learn how.

Read more: Everything you need to know about the Raspberry Pi



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Saturday, 29 January 2022

10 best Android apps to add text to photos https://ift.tt/jn3FIZouR

There are a surprising number of ways to add text to photos on your phone. There are also a lot of reasons to do so. People enjoy making their own memes and motivational posters. You can even use it for advertising for small businesses. In any case, you have plenty of options here. It’s a pretty simple topic so let’s jump right in. Here are the best Android apps to add text to photos.

The best Android apps to add text to photos


Add Text by Gabo Apps

Price: Free / $4.99
Add Text by Gabo Apps screenshot 2022



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Friday, 28 January 2022

3 Samsung Galaxy 21 FE offers, and more of the best Samsung Galaxy deals https://ift.tt/3r5TL1n

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE against plant centered left
Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority

With Samsung’s new foldable Galaxy phones performing better than ever in the market, there are plenty of savings available on the line, as well as many of the past Galaxy S and Note lines. If you don’t mind going with a slightly older flagship, you can save even more. We’ve gone ahead and rounded up the best Samsung Galaxy deals around, from the Galaxy S21 to the Galaxy S9.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a premium foldable device, the more budget-friendly A series, or the still-powerful Galaxy S20 family, you’ve come to the right place.



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Google says tablets are the future, apparently was asleep the past seven years https://ift.tt/3HiG98U

  • An official Google job listing strongly hints at a big push for tablets running Android.
  • The listing clearly refers to tablets as the “future of computing.”
  • This would be the company’s third attempt to succeed in the tablet market.

Apple launched the original iPad in 2010. At the time, it was lambasted as being a ridiculous idea. A giant smartphone? What would be the point in that? Apple laughed all the way to the bank, though, as the iPad is now the world’s most popular tablet computer — and only growing.

See also: Your guide to the best tablets



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The best new movies to stream this week on Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, and more https://ift.tt/3lXnog8

Hulu stock photo green background 1
Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

January’s almost over, and there’s no shortage of films to watch on various streaming services. But it can be hard to narrow down your options, with titles coming and going every month. We’re here to help with a list of the best new streaming movies for you to watch this week.

Related: The best new TV shows to stream this week



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What is Disney Plus Star: Is the international Disney streamer worth it? https://ift.tt/35CkSsR

Disney Plus Star logo
Credit: Disney

Americans have access to a huge number of streaming services unavailable to the rest of the world. Content made for HBO Max, Hulu, Peacock, and more often makes its way to third-party services internationally, sometimes much later than when it premieres stateside. One big exception is Disney Plus. Disney Plus subscribers outside the US actually have access to a much more expansive version of the service through Disney Plus Star.

Related: Everything you need to know about Disney Plus



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Save more than 50% on the Razer DeathAdder Essential, and more top mouse deals https://ift.tt/33rnAjH

HP Omen Photon mouse
Credit: Luke Little / Android Authority

If you’re still looking for accessories to perfect your home office setup or boost your gaming rig, you can’t forget about your mouse. After all, working on a laptop trackpad for long hours can be difficult. We’ve put together some of the best mouse deals available to help you reach a decision.

See also: The best ergonomic wireless mouse: What are your options? 



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Don’t believe the rumors: It is unlikely Oxygen OS to be rebranded as ‘H2OOS’ https://ift.tt/3o7AvyH

Oxygen OS 12 Beta Never Settle Widget
Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
  • A rumor started spreading this week that OnePlus and Oppo could adopt “H2OOS” as the name of their unified operating system.
  • However, the rumor is based on a trademark filed seven years ago.
  • It is unlikely OnePlus planned this merger that long ago, so we don’t think this is happening.

Yesterday, a rumor started on Twitter. The rumor centered on what the new name might be for OnePlus’ and Oppo’s combined operating systems. OnePlus’ is currently called Oxygen OS and Oppo’s is currently called Color OS, but we know they will combine under one banner at some point this year.

Mukul Sharma posited that this new name might be “H2OOS.” This would be a combined version of two names OnePlus has used: Oxygen OS and Hydrogen OS. The latter of those is what OnePlus called Oxygen OS in China before it started using Color OS in that country.



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We asked, you told us: Plenty of you haven’t used Nearby Share before https://ift.tt/3tXmsPP

Nearby Share on Android

Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority

Nearby Share is Android’s answer to AirDrop on iOS devices, promising a more seamless way to locally share content. The feature works with Android 6.0 devices and above, which means chances are good that you’ve got access to it.



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Thursday, 27 January 2022

Save $200 on the GoPro Hero 10 Black, and more great camera deals https://ift.tt/3IKt1cU

GoPro Hero 10 Black promo Image
Credit: GoPro

Smartphone shooters are continually hitting new heights, but sometimes you just can’t beat a proper camera. Handheld units haven’t changed as much as smartphones, but they’ve added new features like Wi-Fi and Full HD displays. Unfortunately, some of the latest technologies mean higher price tags. So we’ve gone ahead and put together a list of some of the best cheap camera deals available right now.

See also: The best cameras for beginners



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Future dual-folding Galaxy device could have weird way to store an S Pen https://ift.tt/3ILZ78e

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 in flex mode.
Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority
  • A patent for a future Galaxy Fold device shows a double-folding hinge.
  • Interestingly, there’s a slot to store an S Pen between two of the panels.
  • We saw similar physical prototypes (without the S Pen) at CES this year, so it’s possible this could become a reality.

Samsung has released a few very different foldables already, but all of them have one thing in common: they fold once. At CES 2022, though, we saw working prototypes of phones that fold multiple times.

Now, thanks to Let’s Go Digital, we have a patent drawing that shows a dual-folding device. This potential future Galaxy Fold phone even has a novel way of storing an S Pen.



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Google mistakenly lists ‘Pixel 6a’ in coloring book for Superfans https://ift.tt/3r4SNlT

Google Pixel 6a Coloring Book 4
Credit: Droid-Life
  • A promotional coloring book sent to select Pixel Superfans contains a reference to a Google Pixel 6a.
  • The Pixel 6a does not actually appear in the coloring book, but it might have at one time.
  • Google has yet to confirm this smartphone exists, so this is likely an oversight by the book’s editor.

With the launch of the Pixel 6 series in October last year, the next Pixel-branded smartphone we expect to see should be an “A” variant of those phones. This is how Google’s operated for several years now, so it’s a bygone conclusion.

However, Google hasn’t actually announced the expected Google Pixel 6a. That didn’t stop the company from listing it in a fun little promotional coloring book, though!



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Pick up the iRobot Roomba 694 for just $179, and more robot vacuum deals https://ift.tt/3IK1JU4

iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum Promo Image
Credit: iRobot

Are you still vacuuming your house with a manual vacuum cleaner? It might be time to try saving some time and energy with a robot vacuum. After all, they don’t tire out, and many are smart enough to avoid common obstacles around your house. Our own C. Scott Brown named his robot vacuum as his favorite tech of 2020.

One of the biggest challenges is finding a model that fits your budget, but there are some great offers around right now. We’ve compiled our list of the best robot vacuum deals below. We’ve done our best to hit a variety of price points and plenty of different brands so you can pick the perfect fit.



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How to check if you can get free (or subsidized) Metro by T-Mobile service https://ift.tt/3AeT3kf

Metro by T Mobile logo on phone stock photo 1
Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  • Metro by T-Mobile now supports the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
  • This program can get you free service on the carrier or subsidize your current plan.
  • You’ll need to check for your eligibility, but it would be well worth your time.

With every passing year, owning a connected smartphone becomes more and more integral. Whether it’s for looking for a job, keeping track of your kids, or just staying connected to the world around you, a smartphone is indispensable.

Unfortunately, owning a smartphone usually means a monthly fee to keep it connected. This can be quite costly. Thankfully, there’s now a way to get subsidized or even totally free Metro by T-Mobile service. This could be a huge money-saver.



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We asked, you told us: Most of you don’t use a ton of widgets https://ift.tt/3mEMuTJ

Google Pixel 6 display and bezel

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Widget functionality is one of Android’s oldest features, giving you quick access to specific functions or info at a glance without launching an app. Whether it’s a simple clock and weather widget, a Google search bar, or something different altogether, widgets are pretty handy.



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This could be our first look at Lenovo’s new Legion gaming phone https://ift.tt/3rUT9ef

Lenovo Legion Diablo Evan Blass 3
  • Lenovo’s forthcoming gaming phone has leaked.
  • Dubbed the Lenovo Legion Phone 3, the device packs a laundry list of specs, including 18GB RAM.
  • A launch is expected at some point in Q1 2022.

Earlier this week, news and renders of Lenovo’s rumored Halo flagship broke cover. Now, the company’s forthcoming gaming phone is the subject of the latest leak.

Per details from reliable leaker Evan Blass, the Lenovo Legion Phone 3 could make its debut soon. While it’s the sequel to the Lenovo Legion Duel 2, the company has seemingly dropped the “Duel” branding, opting instead for Pro and Elite suffixes.



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Wednesday, 26 January 2022

MIUI 13 global rollout confirmed: These phones will get the update soon https://ift.tt/3r6CK7s

Xiaomi 11T Pro display in hand against color
Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority
  • Xiaomi has announced its global MIUI 13 rollout plans.
  • The initial phase will commence in Q1 2022.
  • A list of 18 devices will see updates in the first phase.

In November, Xiaomi hinted that MIUI 13 would hit Chinese devices soon, but there was still uncertainty regarding the skin’s international rollout. Now, the company has confirmed its plans.

At an event that also welcomed the international Redmi Note 11 series, the company unveiled a list of 18 devices that will receive MIUI 13 in the initial global rollout. These devices include the Mi 11 series, the 11T line, and Xiaomi’s Pad 5 tablet.



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