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Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Sony's new Aibo pet robot goes on sale tonight in Japan
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Microsoft's redesigned Mixer mobile app helps you find new streams
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Target stores can order your items online if they're out of stock
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Black Friday 2017, powered by Thrifter!
Black Friday is right around the corner and trying to get prepared for it can be chaotic, but that's where Thrifter steps in. We will be bringing you all of the leaked ads, analysis on the best deals and so much more leading up to the big day. Be sure you are following us on Twitter, subscribe to our newsletter, and bookmark this page so you don't miss out on any of the fun.
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Hilton data breaches lead to $700,000 penalty
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Signal's secure messaging is now available in a desktop app
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Android ‘Fast Pair’ will quickly connect Bluetooth devices
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Taking a look back at the Nexus 5 on its fifth birthday
Happy birthday, old friend 🎉
Every now and then, a gadget comes along that makes a huge impact in the mobile technology market. Apple's iPhone revolutionized what a smartphone should be in 2007, Samsung's original Galaxy Note in 2011 brought back the stylus and made big phones commonplace, and LG's Nexus 5 in 2013 offered the best Android experience the market had seen at that point in time.
The Nexus 5 launched with a starting price of $350, and for that money, you were getting a totally stock build of the all-new Android 4.4 KitKat, wonderfully practical soft-touch plastic body, 4G LTE connectivity, and all of the latest silicon that was currently available. The Nexus 5 offered a lot of what we'd come to expect from a flagship phone in 2013, but it did so at about half the price.
The Nexus 5's user experience was second-to-none.
However, talking about the Nexus 5 based solely on its spec sheet is the wrong way to handle this conversation. The phone certainly offered an impressive list of tech, but what made the Nexus 5 so special was just how much of a pleasure it was to actually use the device.
Going back to that plastic body, this was easily one of the Nexus 5's strong suits. There was some initial backlash considering that the Nexus 4 offered an arguably more premium design with its reflective glass back, but any worries or concerns immediately disappeared once people got their hands on the phone.
The Nexus 5 was available in two colors at launch (black and white), and while the white (aka panda) version was clean and attractive with a harder plastic, the black variant was soft and grippy with a crazy amount of texture. This is something you just don't see in phone design these days, but it made the Nexus 5 comfortable, durable, and even allowed for wireless charging – something the Pixel 2 doesn't even offer.
KitKat was a turning point for Android.
Google used the Nexus 5 as its showcase for Android 4.4 KitKat, and this was a huge step for the OS. Android KitKat introduced the world to the Google Now Launcher with Google Now cards on the left side of our home screen, got rid of the Tron aesthetic in favor of a cleaner and flatter design, and smoothed out a lot of the rough edges that'd been present in Android since its inception. KitKat was fast, fluid, and paved the way for the Android that we still know and love with 8.1 Oreo.
However, if Google's flavor of stock 4.4 KitKat wasn't your jam, you had no shortage of ROMs to choose from with the Nexus 5. The Nexus 5 had (and still does) one of the most active development communities around, and like many others, was my first foray into the world of rooting and ROMing.
It's no secret the Nexus 5 was a great phone, and while we'd love to keep gushing over it, we also want to hear about your experiences with the phone. What did you love? What did you hate? How in the world has Google not made a sucessor to that stunning red version?
See you in the comments!
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You wanted more Switch games, so you got 'Monopoly'
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Microsoft pulls in LinkedIn details for Outlook.com users
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Enter Android Central & Mint SIM's Ultimate Pixel 2 Giveaway!
A hot phone and a year of free service could be yours, FREE!
Android Central is teaming up with Mint SIM for the Ultimate Google Pixel 2 Giveaway!
One lucky winner will receive their choice of either a Google Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL. That's not all! A great phone deserves a service that provides awesome and reliable LTE data along with unlimited text and calls.
Thanks to Mint SIM, the winner will also receive a prepaid SIM card good for one year of paid service that includes 10GB of data per month with unlimited talk and text. We're big fans of Mint SIM, thanks in part to its low-cost plans and nationwide 4G LTE coverage. For savvy shoppers, it's the perfect service to pair with any unlocked phone, including the Pixel 2.
Now on to the giveaway!
THE PRIZE: One Android Central reader will win their choice of Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL and a year of service from Mint SIM!
THE GIVEAWAY: Head down to the widget at the bottom of this page. There are several ways to enter, each with varying point values. Complete all of the tasks for maximum entries and your best shot at winning! Keep in mind that all winning entries are verified and if the task was not completed or cannot be verified, a new winner will be chosen. Please note that while the giveaway is open internationally, Mint SIM only provides service in the U.S., and no substitutions for that part of the prize will be made. It's up to you to determine if the phone will work on your carrier. International winners will be responsible for any customs fees incurred during shipping.
The giveaway is open until November 15, 2017, and the winner will be announced right here after the closing date. Good luck!
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Amazon Prime Video is available on Xbox consoles worldwide
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Google lists all the devices Home supports for easy reference
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You won't have to pay to win in 'Battlefront II' after all
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Conductive thread stores data in clothes without built-in tech
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Nokia 6 available online and in stores at Best Buy for $229
You now have two options for buying the Nokia 6 in the U.S.
HMD Global has been using the Nokia brand throughout 2017 to release a wide array of different Android smartphones, and one of them is the Nokia 6. The Nokia 6 has been available in the United States since July through Amazon, but you now have the option to purchase the phone online or in-store via Best Buy.
The Nokia 6 isn't the best budget offering the market has to offer, and while Harish did have issues with the phone's use of the Snapdragon 430 in his full review, fast software updates, a better-than-average camera for this price point, and a solid 5.5-inch 1080p IPS display are still reason enough to at least give it a look.
For $229, the Nokia 6 offers 32GB of expandable storage (up to 128GB), 16MP rear-facing camera, 8MP front-facing shooter, a fingerprint scanner, and stock build of Android 7.1.1 Nougat.
If you can't decide whether or not the Nokia 6 is for you, check your local Best Buy's availability so you can play around with the phone in person before making a final decision.
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Comcast's Xfinity X1 finally streams Netflix in 4K
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Best Buy stops selling full-price iPhone X following backlash
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PlayStation VR: The Ultimate Guide!
Let this be your extended user manual to all things PlayStation VR!
It wasn't all that long ago VR was considered either something simple you added to a phone for a quick distraction or something amazingly complex for those who could afford the lengthy requirements of ownership. Sony created a compelling middle ground by doing what they do best — making something you actually want to have in your living room. PlayStation VR is a companion for your PlayStaion 4 that elevates your current games and helps you explore and entirely new way to feel like you are the character you're playing.
Being able to fully enjoy this experience requires more than just taking one out of the box. Here's our complete user manual for all things PSVR!
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Best Wireless Charging Pads for Galaxy S8
Your new Samsung Galaxy S8 supports wireless charging, so take full advantage of the convenience!
The Samsung Galaxy S8 is a beautifully designed phone packed with convenient features. That includes wireless charging, which allows you to forgo dealing with cables and elegantly have your phone charging on your desk at work or nightstand at home and simply grab it when it's time to get up and go.
There are a variety of wireless charging stands and pad options compatible with the Galaxy S8, from chargers designed by Samsung to third-party products. Here are your best available options for the Samsung Galaxy S8.
- Samsung Fast Charge Convertible Wireless Charging Pad
- Samsung Wireless Charging Pad w/ 2A wall adapter
- Spigen Qi Wireless Charging Stand
- Tylt Qi Wireless Charging Stand
- Aukey Wireless Charging Pad
- iOttie iON Wireless Qi Wireless Charging Pad
- PASONOMI Fast Wireless Charger
Samsung Fast Charge Convertible Wireless Charging Pad
Samsung has come out with a completely redesigned wireless charging pad/stand, which launched alongside the Galaxy S8. Besides the premium leather-like appearance and ingenious design which allows you to easily convert this pad into an angled charging stand, you can be sure that this charging pad was created with your Galaxy S8 in mind.
The charger comes with a spare Samsung Fast Charge wall charger — because let's be honest, you can never have too many Samsung wall chargers — and allows you to fast charge your Galaxy S8 wirelessly at your home or office. At over $60, this is the most expensive option on the list, but if premium quality and functionality are your top priorities, this is the one you want.
Samsung Wireless Charging Pad w/ 2A wall adapter
If functionality and cost are your two biggest buying factors, you'll want to consider Samsung's older wireless charging pad, which has been deeply discounted on Amazon.
These UFO-like charging pads can charge Qi-compatible devices and are Fast Charge-compatible with your Galaxy S8. It also comes with a Samsung 2A wall charger — always great — and also has a standard one-year warranty. This is a great option if you're looking to set up wireless charging at your home and at work because they're so damn cheap right now. You can also get the older style as a charging stand if you prefer that look instead.
Spigen Qi Wireless Charging Stand
Spigen is one of the best accessory makers, and its Qi Charging Stand is a fine example to back that claim. This charging stand is angled so you are still able to see your display easily while your phone is charging. If you need a way to quickly top off your phone on your desk or a new place to keep it safe on your nightstand, this may be the choice for you. Pick yours up for $30 at Amazon.
TYLT Qi Wireless Charging Stand
TYLT has been in the wireless charging game for years, proving itself to be one on of the most trusted third-party manufacturers. This is another angled wireless charging stand that lets you keep your phone accessible while it charges at your desk. What separates TYLT from Spigen's stand is the color options — you can get this charging stand in black, red, blue and yellow.
iOttie iON Wireless Qi Charging Pad
This wireless charger from iOttie might seem like the bulkier option based on pictures, but it's actually very intelligently designed. It's Qi-compatible with a triple-coil charging zone that's capable of 5V/1A output with a non-slip ring to hold your phone in place on top while it charges. And that hollow opening in the middle isn't just for the stylish look — it's also a docking bay for the iOttie PowerPack 3400mAh External Portable Charger which is super convenient and cool.
You can even get a bundle pack that includes the iOttie PowerPack 3400mAh External Battery for just $50, so you can have a fully charged battery pack to take along with you if you think you'll need it. Otherwise, you can get the wireless charging pad for just $29.95.
PASONOMI Fast Wireless Charger
This wireless charging stand from PASONOMI is a great option for the Galaxy S8 or any Samsung Galaxy phone with wireless charging as it supports fast charging. That means you'll be able to fully charge your phone in under 2 hours!
It's an intelligently designed charger with two charging coils positioned so that you're even able to charge your phone while watching videos in landscape mode. There's also a nice LED strip that will indicate the charging status, and the whole thing has a sleek and futuristic vibe to it.
The stand is available in your choice of black or silver and is only $20!
Do you charge wirelessly?
Have you owned any of the wireless chargers we've featured here? What has been your experience? Let us know in the comments below!
Update October 2017: All pricing information up to date and added the PASONOMI stand!
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Show off your Halloween shopping skills & you could win a $100 gift card!
Reminder that you only have a few hours left to enter! This contest ends at 11:59PM PT tonight. Good luck!
Our friends at Thrifter are holding a Halloween contest.
They challenge you to create the coolest, thriftiest Halloween ever this year. Show them how you decorate your home or dress up for trick-or-treating, all while saving money. Repurposing common items for your costume? Thrifty pumpkin carving? Secondhand mantle decorations? The possibilities are endless!
To enter:
- Upload an image of your creation to Instagram
- Let Thrifter know in the caption how much you spent, any deals you took advantage of, etc.
- Use the hashtag #ThrifterHalloween in your caption
- Tag @thrifterdaily in the photo
- Make sure your Instagram is public and upload the image to enter!
The Thrifter team will pick their favorites on November 1st. The grand prize winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift card, the second-place winner will receive a $75 Amazon gift card, and the third-place winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card.
Random entries will win $10 Amazon gift cards and standouts might even get some cool Thrifter swag.
You have until 11:59PM PT on October 31st to enter. Good luck!
More from Thirifter:
For more great deals be sure to check out our friends at Thrifter now!
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Moto X4 now on sale for $399 in the U.S.
Motorola's handling software updates, but you do get Amazon Alexa.
Motorola has a tendency to release multiple versions of the same phone, and that theme is definitely present with the Moto X4. The Android One version of the device has been available through Project Fi since September, pre-orders for the Prime Exclusive variant started earlier this month, and now you can purchase the regular version from your favorite retailer.
Although the look and feel of the software between the regular Moto X4 and Android One flavor are very similar in a lot of ways, there are a couple of big differences. Software updates on the non-Android One Moto X4 will likely be slower than its Project Fi cousin, and unlike the Android One option, the regular model comes equipped with Amazon Alexa.
Aside from those two differences, everything else is the same here. You've still got a 5.2-inch 1080p display, Snapdragon 630 processor, dual 12MP rear-cameras, Android 7.1.1 Nougat, IP68 dust/water resistance, and plenty more.
In his full review of the Moto X4, Andrew said, "But even if you have to go with the regular unlocked version from Motorola, you're going to be happy with the Moto X4. This is a mid-range Android phone done right."
The Moto X4 will set you back $399, and you can check it out from the link below.
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Here's how to (soon) charge the Pixel 2 while using wired headphones
A 2-in-1 adapter will let you listen while you charge.
The Pixel 2 delivers a great user experience, but the lack of a headphone jack has also incited panic in plenty of aux cord-using drivers and those of us who've grown attached to a specific pair of headphones. While the Pixel 2 comes with a 3.5mm adapter, this still causes issues for those who like to charge their phone and listen to music at the same time.
Thankfully, you can snag a 2-in-1 adapter that will let you charge up and plug in your headphones at the same time. We took a look at a few different adapters to get you the details you need!
A dearth of solid options
If you go hunting on Amazon or the like for a 2-in-1 adapter, then you're probably not going to have a good time. That's because unlike many other accessories you can easily find, snagging a 2-in-1 adapter is not an easy task. There aren't many options, and of them, only a handful are available through Amazon Prime.
The other issue is that of the few adapters available, many have fewer than 20 reviews, and of those reviews, there are a number of complaints about shoddy craftsmanship or adapters that just out and out don't work. We tried ordering two different adapters, one of which had a constant static-y noise, and the other refused to charge.
So trusting what you find on Amazon is a bit of a mixed bag, and you're as lucky to have good luck as you are to have bad. For the time being, the Google Store doesn't do much better. They have a Moshi USB-C adapter listed on the website, but it's not yet available for purchase. It is coming soon, though, so keeping an eye out for when it becomes available isn't a bad call.
Coming Soon: Moshi USB Type-C adapter
The Moshi USB Type-C adapter is the only 2-in-1 adapter that is available on the Google Store. It's also a bit pricey for an adapter, running at $44.95. That being said, it's got a solid titanium body, which means it'll take bumps if you use it while driving, without breaking or falling apart.
While it isn't available yet, you can check out the specs on the Google Store and see if it's something you'll want to grab once it becomes available.
Questions?
While it's unfortunate that there's only not a solid option for being able to charge and listen to music through wired headphones, hopefully the Moshi adapter will be available for purchase soon. Is there an adapter that you've come to love? Will you be picking up a Moshi adapter when you can? Let us know about it in the comments below.
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Fast Pair is Google's vision for fast, effortless Bluetooth pairing
Available now for Android 6.0 Marshmallow and later.
Bluetooth headphones have always been fairly popular, but with the rapid termination of the 3.5mm headphone jack, that point is only going to become more and more prominent over the next few years. Pairing Bluetooth devices to your phone has never been a beautiful process, but Google is aiming to alleviate this pain with the announcement of Fast Pair.
Similar to Apple's W1 chip that was introduced with AirPods last year, Fast Pair lets you connect to a new pair of Bluetooth headphones or earbuds by simply being within close proximity of them. Just turn on pairing mode on the Bluetooth accessory you want to pair, put it near your Android device, and you'll automatically get a notification to pair said accessory without having to jump through convoluted menus.
The only two headphones that currently work with Fast Pair include Google's Pixelbuds and Libratone's Q Adapt On-Ear, but Plantronics' upcoming Voyager 8200 wireless headphones will also support the new tech.
Unlike accessories for iOS that only work with the special W1 chip built inside of them, Fast Pair is a technology that can be pushed out to virtually any pair of Bluetooth headphones – upcoming or existing ones already on the market. Better yet, as long as you're using Google Play Services v11.7 or greater, you'll be able to take advantage of Fast Pair on devices running Android 6.0 Marshmallow or later.
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'PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds' arrives on Xbox One December 12th
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Schlage Sense now unlocks itself with an Alexa voice command
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Battery-free toothbrush is powered with a twist
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Netflix suspends 'House of Cards' production amid Spacey allegations
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iOS 11.1 brings new emojis and important security updates
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