Monday, 2 August 2021

Record low price on the 1st Gen Echo Show, plus more Amazon Echo deals https://ift.tt/3xopKtA

Echo Show 5 profile shot

The smart home race comes down to two main players — Amazon Echo and Google Nest. If you’re keen to upgrade your home tech and make Alexa the voice of your home, it just might help to look into a new Amazon Echo speaker. Here are the best Amazon Echo deals you can get right now.

There are thousands of skills and routines that you can run on an Amazon Echo, but the first step is finding the Echo device that’s right for you. Whether you want the stealthy Echo Dot or the handy screen on the Echo Show, there’s a good chance you can save a bit of money on the Echo of your choice.

Featured deal: Record low price on the 1st Gen Echo Show

Escho Show 5 1st Gen Amazon Deal

Credit: Amazon

While it may not be the latest model, the 1st Gen Echo Show 5 has the all functionality you need in a smart display. It’s back at its joint lowest price for the first time in six months, giving you the chance to own it for just $44.99 ($35 off).

This affordable smart device is a great option for those just looking to get into Amazon’s Echo ecosystem or even for those whose homes are already riddled with Alexa-powered smart devices. It’s functional, simple, fits in almost anywhere

Read more: The best skills and apps for Alexa

The only immediately noticeable difference between the Show 5 and the original Echo Show is the speaker quality and the screen size. Other than that, both devices can display the weather, stream videos, play music, and much more.

Check out this great deal via the widget below. If it isn’t for you, keep scrolling for more deals.

$44 .99
Amazon Echo Show 5 (1st Gen)
Save $35 .00
Buy it Now
Amazon Echo Show 5 (1st Gen) Buy it Now
Save $35 .00 $44 .99

The best Amazon Echo deals

  1. Echo Dot deals
  2. Amazon Echo deals
  3. Echo Plus deals
  4. Echo Studio deals
  5. Amazon Echo Show deals
  6. Other Echo products

We’ll be sure to keep this list updated regularly. After all, Amazon tends to change deals at a moment’s notice.

1. Amazon Echo Dot deals

Echo Dot 2020 fourth generation comparison with older Echo Dot

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

The Amazon Echo Dot is the most basic option if you’re looking for your first smart home device. It’s been completely redesigned for its fourth generation, and it adds Alexa functionality to any room of your house. You can also choose from three different models: The original Echo Dot, the Echo Dot with a clock, and the Echo Dot Kids Edition.

The first two options are mainly self-explanatory but the Kids Edition actually packs some unique features. For starters, you can choose from a blue color and a rainbow finish to make the Echo Dot pop. Parents can also set limits on skills and the hours that kids can deliver commands.

 2. Amazon Echo deals

Amazon Echo 2020 deals

Credit: Amazon

The Amazon Echo is the device that started it all, and now it’s on its fourth generation. The Echo has been redesigned as a sphere with a soft-touch exterior that matches that of the Echo Dot, but it’s easily the larger of the two. One of the main differences is that the standard Echo fits a woofer and two tweeters compared to the Dot’s single speaker. That means that your Spotify and Pandora playlists can sound better than ever.

Related: What’s the best Echo speaker?

You can also use your network of Echo devices as an intercom system to broadcast messages throughout your house. The Amazon Echo comes in four different colors to match your decor.

 3. Echo Studio deals

best amazon echo studio deals

The Echo Studio is even larger and more powerful than the previous options above. It packs five strategically positioned speakers that can fill the room with sound. Enhanced with Dolby Atmos, the Echo Studio even plays music in formats that are mastered for 3D. It’s the perfect option to bring a party to life and you can even connect it to your Fire TV Stick for a surround sound experience.

 4. Echo Show deals

Echo Show 8 with drop in call

All of the options so far on the list have been cylindrical smart speakers with a primary emphasis on quality sound. That all changes with the added screen on the Echo Show. You may not want to watch a full-length movie on the Echo Show 5 or Echo Show 8, but both options are great for quick YouTube videos and news clips. You can even follow along with a recipe right in your kitchen.

The second-generation Echo Show makes it a little bit easier to watch longer videos with the larger ten-inch screen, and it definitely makes controlling your home a breeze. You can video chat with family, adjust your lights, and much more. Check out deals on the Echo Show 5, 8, and 10 below.

 5. Other Echo products

Echo flex with nightlight attached

Smart speakers and displays aren’t the only options when it comes to the Amazon Echo family. Amazon also offers Alexa integrations in a variety of other devices, such as the Echo Wall Clock. The clock is actually a companion device, so you’ll have to have a standard speaker as well, but it allows you to display timers easily with just a glance at the clock.

Read also: The best Amazon Echo and Echo Dot accessories

Amazon also offers the Echo Flex for those situations where you just don’t have space for a full-size speaker. The Echo Flex is a handy mini plug-in smart speaker that hugs tight to your outlet.



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August 2021 Android security patch comes to Pixel phones https://ift.tt/3lSdiga

Google Pixel 5 using phone from the back 2
Credit: David Imel / Android Authority
  • Google is rolling out the August 2021 Android security patch to Google Pixel devices.
  • There’s only one feature fix, but it’s an important one that prevents accidental Google Assistant use.
  • It’s pushing out to the Pixel 3 and newer devices.

It wouldn’t be the start of a new month without a Google security update. and the company is happy to oblige. Google has started rolling out the August 2021 security patch to supporting Pixel phones. As always, you can install it by either checking for a software update in System Settings or waiting for an over-the-air notification.

See also: Pixel Feature Drops are great news for us all

There’s only one general fix in the August security update. However, it’s one you’ll likely appreciate. Google has resolved an “issue” that accidentally invoked Google Assistant. The tech firm didn’t elaborate on what that was, but it could be welcome if you’re tired of Assistant chiming in when you didn’t want its help. The security fixes focus on moderate flaws in NFC (for Pixels) and Qualcomm closed-sourc components.

august 2021 android security update

Credit: Google

The modest August security upgrade isn’t surprising. Android 11 and the latest Pixel phones are relatively mature, while Google is close to finishing Android 12. The focus is less on polishing existing products and more on preparing for the future, including the upcoming Pixel 6 series.

You don’t have to sit tight if you’re determined to upgrade right away. You can manually install the August security update by downloading the relevant factory or OTA image below. If you don’t have a Pixel, you should get an equivalent update (minus Pixel-specific fixes) in the days ahead.

August 2021 Android security patch links

Note: These links are for unlocked models only. If you have a carrier-branded Pixel, you will need to visit here for factory images or here for OTA images.



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Save up to 50% on Netgear devices today, and more wireless router deals https://ift.tt/2Vi4pVN

Netgear Nighthawk CM2000 Wireless router deals
Credit: Netgear

Most people spend the majority of their time connected to Wi-Fi on one device or another. Yet we rarely give our router a second thought, and that’s usually a good thing. After all, thinking about a router often means that it’s not doing its job very well. If you’ve been questioning your router lately, here are a few of the best wireless router deals to help ease your mind.

See also: Ethernet vs Wi-Fi: Do you need a hardwired connection?

We’ve tracked down options at a variety of price points with different capacities to fit your family. If you only have a few devices on your network, you probably won’t be looking for the most high-end router out there.

Featured deals: Save up to 50% on Netgear devices

Netgear Network Wireless router deals

Credit: Amazon

If you’re not reading this on August 2 then keep scrolling. Many of the deals below are still likely to be running, but we’re focused on the Amazon Gold Box deal today, which allows you to save as much as 50% on Netgear networking devices.

Related: The best mesh routers

Amazon’s headline suggests you can save up to 27%, but some of the devices are actually half-price. The sale includes modems and routers to give you the fastest Wi-Fi speeds, and a whole host of range extenders to boost your signal strength in your home or workplace.

Here are some of the highlights of the sale:

Remember that these deals expire at midnight, so don’t sleep on them if you’re looking to boost your Wi-Fi capability. The button below takes you to the full sale. 

Check out the Netgear sale!

Best wireless router deals

There’s a whole slew of other wireless router deals out there right now. We’ve split them up by manufacturer to keep things simple.

TP-Link

Netgear

Asus

Other brands

That’s it for the latest wireless router deals for now. Once you’ve upgraded, you may be interested to check out what the best laptop deals are this month.



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This may be your first look at a real Galaxy Watch 4 Classic https://ift.tt/2V7u03N

samsung galaxy watch 4 classic photos
Credit: 91mobiles
  • A leak appears to show the first live photos of Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 4 Classic.
  • The pictures also give a very brief glimpse of Samsung’s Wear OS interface.
  • You should learn more at Unpacked on August 11.

You might not have to settle for renders of Samsung’s next Galaxy Watch. As Android Police reports, 91mobiles has obtained photos of what it says is the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic — including a quick glance at its software.

The images appear to reveal a Galaxy Watch 4 Classic that lines up with rumors, including its conventional-looking bezel (in black- or silver-colored steel) and included straps that extend right to the case. The Classic will reportedly come in water-resistant 42mm and 46mm case sizes, both of which would use a high-capacity 361mAh battery, a new Exynos W920 chip, 1.5GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage.

Related: The best Wear OS watches

Both examples also show Samsung’s One UI Watch running on real hardware, if just some introductory screens. The full interface is expected to riff on Google’s Wear OS revamp with elements from Tizen software.

Samsung is expected to introduce both the Classic and the regular Galaxy Watch 4 at its Unpacked event on August 11, with a release relatively soon after. The higher-end watch might be priced at $399, or roughly $100 more than its regular counterpart.

The Classic doesn’t appear to be a radical reinvention of the Galaxy Watch hardware formula, provided the photos are accurate. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, however. This suggest Samsung will stick with a generally well-received external design while focusing on improved software and performance — those aspects that clearly needed the most upgrades.



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Google formally confirms Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro: See official renders here! https://ift.tt/3jyqhWs

Google Store NYC Opening Tour 13
Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
  • Google just revealed a ton of early information about the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.
  • Included with the announcement are images of the device, which closely match previous leaks.
  • The company also divulged some other details about the new flagship phones.

We’ve seen a ton of leaks already related to Google’s upcoming flagship Pixels, but now we have the real deal. Out of the blue, the company just revealed images, naming, and other aspects and features of the Pixel 6 series.

The series will include the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. This is the first time there’s been a “Pro” Pixel, with Google usually opting for an “XL” moniker.

Check out the image below of the Pro model in multiple colorways.

google pixel 6 pro range

Credit: Google

And here’s another photo showcasing the Pixel 6 Pro camera:

google pixel 6 pro camera

Credit: Google

As you can see, the previously leaked renders from Steve Hemmerstoffer (and others) appear to have been mostly correct. However, the large selection of colorways is very surprising (and a welcome surprise at that).

Google confirmed that the Pixel 6 will have a matte aluminum finish, which is likely similar to what we saw on the Pixel 5. It also confirmed the Pixel 6 Pro will have a polished aluminum frame, which heavily suggests the back of that phone will be made of glass.

The name and design of the phone isn’t the only thing Google showed off, though.

Google Pixel 6 processor is called ‘Google Tensor’

google tensor processor

Credit: Google

Previously, we learned that Google was developing its own silicon for the next Pixel flagships. The codename for this silicon was “Whitechapel.” Now, Google has confirmed that the market name for this new mobile CPU is Google Tensor.

See also: What you should really expect from Google’s custom Pixel 6 processor

Google emphasizes that Tensor is developed with machine learning and artificial intelligence features at the forefront. It also emphasized that Tensor will have “the most layers of hardware security in any phone.” That’s a bold statement, but Google didn’t offer too much info to back it up, at least not yet.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai mentioned that the Tensor system has been four years in the making.

Other details from another source

Google Pixel 6 Pro

Credit: Google

Over at The Verge, Dieter Bohn got some hands-on time with the new phones. While he wasn’t able to take any pics or videos, he does add some more info that Google didn’t officially announce.

According to Bohn, the Google Pixel 6 Pro will have a 6.7-inch QHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The display will have “slightly” curved edges, which hopefully means it won’t have too many phantom touch issues. On the back, there will be three lenses: a new wide-angle, an ultra-wide, and a 4x optical zoom telephoto.

See also: How Google Pixel prices for phones changed over the years

Meanwhile, The Verge contends that the vanilla Pixel 6 has a 6.4-inch FHD+ screen with a 90Hz refresh rate. Unlike the Pro model, its display is flat. It also lacks a telephoto camera on the rear.

Both phones will have in-display fingerprint sensors and the Tensor SoC. They both will also have the Titan M2 security chip built in.

Sundar Pichai says the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will launch this fall. That likely means late September or early October.



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‘Various sources’ say Galaxy Watch 4 could have 7-day battery life https://ift.tt/2TSRXv0

samsung galaxy watch 3 mystic black and mystic bronze on table 2
Credit: Samsung
  • The rumor mill is saying the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 might have up to seven days of battery life.
  • If true, the watch would best pretty much every existing Wear OS smartwatch by a significant margin.
  • However, it’s very possible this timeframe could only be achieved through a minimal “battery saver” mode.

One of the biggest complaints when it comes to Google’s current version of Wear OS is battery life. Most Wear OS watches can eke out a day of life before they need to be charged. If you use it for a lot of workouts, music streaming, or sleep tracking, it’s likely you won’t even get that full day.

One of our big hopes is that Samsung’s and Google’s Wear OS 3.0 will solve this problem. According to a new rumor roundup from WinFuture, it’s possible our wish may come true. According to “various sources” speaking with WinFuture, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 could have up to seven days of battery life.

See also: Everything we know about the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

Now, that’s a lot of battery life for pretty much any wearable. That would best all Wear OS watches, most fitness-based watches such as the Fitbit Sense, and even the Apple Watch. That’s why we’re pretty skeptical of this claim.

Although it certainly is likely Wear OS 3.0 watches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 will have better battery life than current models, seven days is a big jump. It’s possible that this number reflects the use of some sort of battery-saver mode, rather than the basic out-of-the-box mode. For example, Mobvoi’s line of TicWatches come with an Essential Mode that sips on the battery. If you only used that, you could get weeks of battery life. However, saying the watch gets weeks of battery is not totally true, since you’d need to have nearly all other features turned off.

Still, we can’t rule out the possibility that this Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 rumor is true and applies to the default configuration. If that’s how things pan out, Wear OS 3.0 watches could be game-changers for the entire industry.



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Gary Explains: Windows 11 debacle, Microsoft Linux, Qualcomm’s M1 killer & more https://img.youtube.com/vi/qrH4zEBmztc/maxresdefault.jpg

Just when you think summer has come and things in the tech world will slow down a little and allow you to enjoy a cool lemonade in the garden, that is when all the big stories happen. Windows 11, Microsoft's own Linux distro, Pegasus Spyware, Qualcomm's M1 Killer, OnePlus deliberately slowing down apps on the OnePlus 9, the Steam Deck, NVIDIA RTX Ray Tracing Running on an Arm-based PC, and more!

All things Microsoft

Microsoft has had a busy few weeks with the initial developer releases of Windows 11, plus a lot of pain and anguish for Windows 10 users who are discovering that they won't be able to upgrade to Windows 11.

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Microsoft remains unrepentant and insists that mandating you have at least an Intel 8th generation processor, or at least an AMD Zen 2 based processor, is still the minimum for Windows 11

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If you won't want to run Windows 11, then what are your alternative?

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Or maybe you want to run Microsoft's Linux distro called CBL-Mariner!

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Government sanctioned cyber-surveillance with Pegasus

The Guardian newspaper has highlighted the perils of government-sanctioned cyber-surveillance, following its exposé of Pegasus, a sophisticated piece of malware that is being used by authoritarian regimes to target activists, politicians, and journalists. So, what is Pegasus? How does it work? Can you protect yourself?

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RTX Ray Tracing on Arm-based PC, plus gaming on Linux with the Steam Deck

NVIDIA has demonstrated its RTX Ray Tracing tech on an Arm-based PC, no x86 chips here! The demo included Wolfenstein: Youngblood, running in real-time on a MediaTek Arm platform with ray-traced graphics.

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Valve has launched Steam Deck, a handheld gaming device with an AMD processor, RDNA 2 graphics, and a 7 inch touch screen. It is basically a handheld PC. Which OS does it run? Linux of course!

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I Found These Things Interesting, So Might You!



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