Apple : LG's true 5G-ready V50 ThinQ has a release date and price |
- LG's true 5G-ready V50 ThinQ has a release date and price
- The best Fitbit Versa prices and sales in April 2019
- The best cheap 4K TV deals and sale prices in the US - April 2019
- The 35 best indie games on PC and consoles
- Best wireless routers 2019: the best routers for your home network
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- Cloudflare launches new VPN with emphasis on speed
- The Apple Arcade strategy so far, and why it could work
- Best noise-cancelling headphones 2019: the best headphones for travel and commuting
- Best cheap headphones: your guide to the best budget headphones in 2019
- The best cheap smart home device deals in April 2019
- The best T-Mobile phones for April 2019
- Planet Hollywood owner hit by major data breach
- Alexa Games: the best games you can play on your smart speaker
- The best Verizon phones available in April 2019
- Best business plan software of 2019
- The best AT&T phones available in April 2019
- The best smartphone of 2019: 15 top mobile phones tested and ranked
- Airport security may soon let you leave your laptop in your bag
| LG's true 5G-ready V50 ThinQ has a release date and price Posted: 01 Apr 2019 02:26 PM PDT LG showed off the new, 5G-capable V50 ThinQ this year at MWC 2019, but there was no word on the price or release date at the time. Now, the LG V50 has release date and price in Korea, as LG press has announced. The confirmed price for the LG V50 is 1,199,000 Won, which is approximately $1,060 (£805, AU$1,485). The release date is April 19, and customers can get LG's Dual-Screen accessory for free with their purchase until May. The price of the LG V50 shouldn't be too surprising. The earlier LG V40 cost $900 (around £690 / AU$1260) at launch, and the LG V50 is an undeniable upgrade. What it packsThe LG V50's Snapdragon 855 chipset promises to offer fast speeds inside the device, coupled with a 5G modem for faster connectivity to outside carriers. Beyond the brains, it has a 6.4-inch OLED display, three-camera system on the rear, dual-camera system on the front, an IP68 rating against dust and water, and military-grade drop protection. As painful as a over-$1,000 price tag can be, it's not surprising to see from a new flagship in the past year, especially when factoring in the extra cost for early adoption of 5G. However, the price for the LG V50 is still sitting below the Korean price of the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G. While the news of Korean prices and release dates for each phone do give us some insights into the ballpark of when they may release elsewhere and for how much, the only thing that's really clear right now is that neither will come cheap. Via: Fonearena This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The best Fitbit Versa prices and sales in April 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 02:21 PM PDT If you're looking for a quality smartwatch, but don't want to pay the price of an Apple Watch, then the Fitbit Versa is an excellent option. The popular fitness tracker has been discounted from a number of popular retailers since there is a newer version of the Fitbit smartwatch out (the Fitbit Ionic) that retails for more. We also have the best prices for the Fitbit Versa Special Edition as well as the Fitbit Versa Lite Edition. The Fitbit Versa tracks all of your activity which includes steps, heart rate, distance, calories burned, floors climbed, active minutes, hourly activity and stationary time. The Versa smartwatch is also waterproof so you can tracks laps and calories burned during swim workouts. Enjoy your favorite music on the Versa with 300+ songs that you can store or connect to Bluetooth headphones so you can listen to music or podcasts wire-free. The Versa will also help you keep on track with your health and fitness goals with personalized reminders. You can also personalize your workouts with on-screen coaching that adapts by provided feedback. The Versa also features female health tracking which allows women to log their period and gain insights into fertility and other health stats. The Versa also has the basic smartwatch features such as getting calls, texts, and notifications and accessing your favorite apps. The best deals on the Fitbit Versa smartwatchIf you're interested in contactless payments or switching up the look of the Versa smartwatch, then you can upgrade to the Fitbit Versa Special Edition. The special edition version of the smartwatch allows you to choose from a charcoal or lavender woven band rather than the classic Versa band. The Fitbit Versa Special Edition also has a built-in NFC chip that allows you to make secure payments without your wallet. You can make payments on the go with your credit and debit cards with a tap of your wrist anywhere that accepts contactless payments. The best deals on the Fitbit Versa Special EditionIf you're looking for a cheaper version of the Fitbit Versa, then you're in luck. Fitbit has announced the "Fitbit Versa Lite Edition" which is priced significantly lower than the original Fitbit, currently priced at $159.95 / £149.99 /AU$249.95. The Versa Lite is available for pre-order now and should be available for purchase sometime in mid-March. The Fitbit Versa Lite Edition has many of the core features that the Fitbit Versa has despite its lower price tag. The Versa Lite can track your heart rate and all-day activity like steps, distance, active minutes and calories burned as well as sleep with helpful insights. The Versa Lite also has the standard smartwatch features such as call, text and calendar notifications as well as access to your favorite apps. So what does the Versa Lite Edition lack? Unlike the original Fitbit Versa and Special Edition, the Versa Lite doesn't have personalized on-screen workouts, and you also can't upload and store your music to the smartwatch. While the Versa Lite's price is lower than the original Fitbit Versa, which retails for $199.95 /£199.99 /AU$299.95, you can often find sales on the Versa that drops below the price of the Versa Lite. The best deals on the Fitbit Versa Lite EditionIf you need more information on key features of the Fitbit Versa or how much the smartwatch normally costs, we've answered some common questions below to help with your buying decision. What are the best features of the Fitbit Versa?Some of the key features of the Fitbit Versa are the design, health and fitness tracking and the long-lasting battery. The Versa design got a makeover from the previous model and now has a more attractive, sleek look for everyday wear. The Versa smartwatch will also track your sleep, letting you know the time spent in different stages and personalized tips on how to improve. The Fitbit Versa offers a 4+ day battery life so you can track your activity, play music, text and more throughout the day without worrying of recharging your battery. How much does a Fitbit Versa cost?One of the biggest selling points of the Fitbit Versa vs. an Apple Watch is the price. The Fitbit Versa retails for $199.99 / £199.99 / AU$299.99 and is one of the best smartwatches you can get for under $200. Since the Versa has been out for almost a year, you can normally find discounts and sales from popular retailers on the smartwatch. Fitbit Versa bands: are they interchangeable?Specific Fitbit devices do have interchangeable bands, and the Fitbit Versa is one that can be customized with interchangeable wristbands. Several retailers besides the Fitbit website sell Versa bands such as Amazon and Walmart. Styles include bands that look more like a traditional watch and bands that have more sporty features such as breathable air holes. The interchangeable wristbands are also made out of variety of different materials that include stainless steel, woven fabric, and leather to name a few.
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| The best cheap 4K TV deals and sale prices in the US - April 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 01:46 PM PDT March Madness is still going on, and that means you can still find cheap TV deals from top retailers such as Amazon, Walmart and more (we've also got a roundup of UK retailers). You can find Black Friday like prices on a variety of best-selling 4K TVs from brands such as Samsung, Sony, LG and more. You'll find discounts on 4K TVs, smart TVs, different model sizes, and a variety of prices that will fit any all TV viewing needs. Whether you want a small TV with a price tag to match or something to show all the colors of the rainbow (and a few million more) with HDR, we've found plenty of options. Read on to find the TV you want at a great price!
TechRadar's cheap TV deal of the weekCheap TV deals (40-49 inch)Cheap TV deals (50-59 inch):Cheap TV deals (60-85 inch):More cheap TV sales:Not found the right cheap TV for you today? Or maybe you'd prefer to directly browse the TVs at your favourite retailers instead of our highlights of the best cheap TV deals? We're updating this page on a regular basis, so you may have better look another day. If you want to take a look for yourself now though, here are the direct links to a the full collection of TV deals at multiple stores. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The 35 best indie games on PC and consoles Posted: 01 Apr 2019 01:18 PM PDT Although the best PC games with cash to splash are quickly evolving, so are the best indie games you might not have heard of. One of the best things about our best indie games list is that most of the titles, unlike AAA game publishers, don’t try to manipulate you out of every penny any chance they can get. Free from corporate influence and constant badgering for your money, the best indie games represent the pure artistic vision of the developers – especially if you have one of the best gaming PCs. However, just because the best indie games aren’t mainstream blockbusters, it doesn’t mean they can’t keep up with the latest AAA hits. In fact, it’s kind of the opposite: the best indie games can easily exceed mainstream games in both quality and scope – becoming artistic masterpieces in the process. And, unlike their more commercial brethren, they don’t rely on tired tropes and cliches to try and sell millions of copies. This is all exciting stuff, and if you want to dive into the best indie games, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered up all the best indie games on the market today. We’ve included both in vogue indies like Return of the Obra Dinn and Dead Cells, and classic titles like Braid and Dwarf Fortress. Don’t worry, we’re going to keep this list updated with all the latest and greatest indie hits. So, if you’re looking for the next great indie title, keep reading. Linux, Windows or Mac - which one is best for you? Watch our guide video below: Bill Thomas, Joe Osborne, Kane Fulton and Gabe Carey have also contributed to this article Yeah, it’s not out yet, with Double Fine promising it’ll be out ‘soonish’, but Ooblets is still on our radar. The game is described as some kind of combo between Pokemon, Harvest Moon and Animal Crossing, which has certainly captured our attention – and it should probably capture yours, too. Ooblets is being developed by first-time studio Glumberland, and is backed by Double Fine. Ooblets combines an art style oddly reminiscent of Adventure time, with gameplay that revolves around gathering creatures called ooblets in the town of, uh, Oob. Upon doing so, you’ll be able to train and battle your ooblets against other ooblet trainers. At the same time, you’ll have to balance your ooblet training with the real-world responsibilities of being a farmer. That’s right, drawing influence from the likes of Stardew Valley, you can cultivate produce and decorate your house with various trimmings as well. You’ll also be able to join an Ooblet Club comprised of friends (NPCs) you’ll meet along the way. If you don’t know what to do in Ooblets, simply walk around and discover new shops and buildings that suit your interest. While you’re at it, you can open up your own shop and sell produce that you’ve grown on the farm in addition to the items you’ve scavenged throughout the world. Otherwise, you can feed the leftover crops to your ooblets to watch them level up and learn new techniques to be used in the turn-based, RPG-style battles. Expected: ‘Soonish’ Jonathan Blow's masterpiece first appears to be a simple pastiche of Super Mario Bros, with a middle-aged curmudgeon replacing the titular plumber but still seeking to rescue a princess. But, the longer you spend in the game, the more that’s revealed to you, moving from a series of time-bending puzzles to quiet reflective texts – which doesn’t stop it from being the smartest puzzle game until SpaceChem. Blow himself has subtly hinted that the ultimate story may revolve around the atomic bomb. First released as PC freeware by Japanese designer Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya back in 2004 after five years of 100% solo development, Cave Story predates the recent indie renaissance by a few years. Because of when and how it was first released, it's often forgotten in discussions of indie gaming. But this classic deserves to be on every best-of list for its loving homage to the classic action platforming games of the Super Nintendo era, its incredible music and its incredibly vibrant world. Oh, and don't forget the hugely intuitive controls, gobs of secrets and weapons that are entirely too fun to use. If you've yet to enjoy this one, just put it on your backlog already. From family-owned and operated Studio MDHR, Cuphead has connected with millions of people around the world, many of whom normally wouldn’t touch a run-and-gun platformer with a ten-foot pole. Although its gameplay was inspired by classic games like Mega Man and Contra, most gamers would likely compare it to a Fleischer Studios cartoon, like Betty Boop. Because Cpuhead utilizes a hand-drawn art style likened to a 1930s animation, it’s been universally praised for its gorgeous visuals. Cuphead is more than just its beautiful visuals – it’s a series of 19 challenging and engaging bosses, with platforming bits interspersed between them. It was already one of the best indie games, but Studio MDHR has announced the Cuphead: the Delicious Last Course DLC, slated for 2019, with a new isle to explore, new bosses to conquer and, most importantly, a new character to master. Many AAA games serve as escapist power fantasies, where the player is ultimately able to dominate the game’s universe – right up until the game ends. However, many indie games serve as the opposite – like the IGF award winner and misery simulator Cart Life. Papers Please is similar to Cart Life – it's also an IGF winner with elements of misery about it - but it's better, being a smart, weird sim about the compromised life of a border guard under a totalitarian regime. It's ugly and desperate, but also innovative, uproariously funny and terribly smart. Among the hardcore gamers of my acquaintance, Spelunky is the go-to drug. Even today, several years after its release, some of them still play it every day, despite having completed it many times over. That's because Spelunky, an ostensibly rogue-like platformer with a definite end, is tough, varied and highly randomized. It also has more dark secrets than a presidential candidate, meaning there are many, many ways to finish it, and its daily challenges are a sure-fire way to public humiliation. Unfortunately, humor is often missing among games, mostly being restricted to slapstick comedy or crude one-liners. The Stanley Parable, however, is hilarious without being dumbed down. Players follow (or don’t) a very British narrator who changes the world around you, depending on your decisions. No decision is punished, every play-through throws up new humor and weirdness. Being trapped in the closet in the Stanley Parable is more moving and funny than 9/10 of other games. If you missed out on this ironic gem back when it first launched, the developer announced the Stanley Parable Ultra Deluxe edition for 2019, with new content, more endings and a console release. Actually, that Ultra Deluxe edition sounds pretty tempting even for us – and we played it a bunch when it first came out.
It took more than nine years to make, but Owlboy was definitely worth the wait. Originally contrived for PCs and released in late 20166, the clever masterpiece of an indie game is now available to experience on Mac and Linux as well – and there’s even a Nintendo Switch version! Owlboy centers around a race of owl-human hybrid characters called, well, Owls. Of them, you control Otis, an Owl who is censured by his mentor for his inept flying skills. The story sees Otis’ village dismantled by pirates who clearly have conflict with the Owls. As a result, Otis has to work with an assortment of villagers in-game to take out enemies. Of course, when boss battles arise, you’ll need to manage allies accordingly, as each character comes with their own set of unique skill sets to use in conjunction with one another. If you’ve ever played and enjoyed a Kid Icarus game, this is one for the books. Otherwise, play it anyway. Similar to The Stanley Parable, Gone Home falls into the unofficially labeled ‘walking simulator’ genre. Where it diverts from the clever and philosophical Stanley Parable, however is its focus on life’s difficult realities, instead of light humor. After arriving at your childhood home after an overseas visit, you play as 21-year-old Kaitlin Greenbriar who is greeted by a vacant house. While gameplay is basically limited to scavenging through notes to find out where your family is, the gripping story is a extremely emotional and compelling, as long as you keep an open mind. After all this time, Gone Home stands out as one of the best indie games out there. Only SpaceChem has mingled education with entertainment as successfully as The Kerbal Space Program. The game is simple - design and build spacecraft to take the cutesy Kerbals to the Mun and beyond. Yet its focused use of real physics means that you'll find yourself following NASA in building multi-stage rockets, space stations and exploring the Kerbal's strange universe on EVAs, before bringing your discoveries back to research on the Kerbal planet - that's if you can get off the ground at all. It's a huge, complex, challenging and fun game, that's smart without being preachy. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is the exact opposite of something like Kerbal Space Program – it’s an action roguelike par excellence. You play as a young boy attempting to kill his damned siblings, mother and possibly the Devil, using only your tears. Which he shoots from his eyes, of course – it’s matched only by the equally visceral Nuclear Throne. With dozens of bizzare items to collect, endlessly procedurally-generated levels, and tons of secrets, the Binding of Isaac is a very dark take on the exploratory model established by Spelunky. Though you might get put off by the pixel art graphics, Undertale isn’t a game that would have fit on the Super Nintendo. That’s because, in Undertale, you decisions make a huge difference in how the game ends and, more importantly, how it continues in New Game Plus. While playing Undertale, you’ll come to realize just how much freedom the game gives you. Despite its ingenious and intense boss matches, you’ll be able to make it through the entire nine or so hours of Undertale as a complete pacifist. Plus, when you go through the game a second time, you’ll bear the weight of the consequences from your previous run. And, now Undertale is out on the Nintendo Switch, so you can take this masterpiece of game design wherever you go. From developer Playdead, Inside is comparable to its predecessor, Limbo, in some ways but with an added layer of depth that inspires frequent wonder. This is mostly a result of the unspoken narrative, which revolves around yet another nameless boy. In Inside, however, the boy in the story is running away from a group of men who – if you fail to stay out of their sights – will try to mercilessly kill you. Though it isn't quite clear why the boy is running from these men or why you should even care since you don't know who he is, Inside will leave you begging for answers. The bleak, lifeless setting of Inside is more than worth the price of admission. Its minimalist art style alone is avant-garde enough to feel right at home in a museum. Add in a game that's both fun to play and dripping with curiosity, though, and Inside is one of the best indie games money can buy. Developed single-handedly by Eric Barone, Stardew Valley is undoubtedly a technical feat for that little facet alone. If you’ve ever played a Harvest Moon game, you’re already familiar with the premise of Stardew Valley – you may just not know it yet. Stardew Valley is an addictive farming simulator which sees you interact with townees to the point where you can literally marry them. Stardew Valley isn’t just farming, though – it’s a whole bunch of things at the same time. You can go fishing, you can cook, you can craft stuff – you can even go explore procedurally-generated caves to mine for items and even attack slime-monster-things. However, you should keep in mind that your health and energy are finite, so you'll want to keep your character rested and fed to avoid suffering from exhaustion. Pass out and you’ll lose a considerable amount of money and items you’ve worked hard to attain. Stardew Valley will have you addicted for hours on end, for better or worse. (Definitely better.) From Canadian game developer Alec Holowka, the creator of the award-winning Aquaria (also featured on this list) and independent artist/animator Scott Benson, Night in the Woods is an unconventional side-scrolling adventure game centering around a 20-year-old protagonist named Mae who drops out of college to move back in with her parents. Featuring a story largely based around dialog choices and mini games that put a spin on mundane tasks, like carrying boxes up the stairs and eating perogies, Night in the Woods is a timeless coming-of-age tale. Not only will you experience middle class America through the eyes of a personified cat, but virtually every interaction in-game will have you laughing aloud. And now that it’s coming to the Nintendo Switch on February 1, you’ll be able to take it wherever you go. If you’re a fan of the recent wave of games inspired by Dark Souls, you’ll absolutely love Hollow Knight. You take control of the Hollow Knight, and lead them through the deceptively adorable landscape to take on bosses and other difficult challenges. Much like Dark Souls, it’s not immediately clear what you’re actually supposed to be doing as the narrative is intentionally obtuse. The Dark Souls inspirations don’t end there, however. It also adopts Dark Souls’ ‘tough but fair’ philosophy, where the game is only as hard as you make it – you can overcome anything as long as you have patience and learn from your mistakes. Hollow Knight takes these lessons from Dark Souls and injects them into a MetroidVania, with all the side-scrolling and upgrades you could possibly want. You can even play it on the Nintendo Switch now. If you’re looking for a game that’s as unforgiving as it is fun, look no further than Dead Cells. It takes gameplay inspiration from so many places – from roguelikes, to MetroidVania to even a hint of Dark Souls, to create a unique action game that will test your limits. Each time you play this game, it will be different. And, while you’ll lose some progress each time you die – and you’ll die a lot – the game will become more and more rewarding as the complex and fluid combat becomes second nature. In the final release of the game, you get access to over 90 weapons, skills and abilities that’ll let you tailor your gameplay however you want. Whatever you do, don’t get discouraged when you fail. Get up and try again, Dead Cells will only reward you in the end – which is why it’s one of the best indie games 2018 has to offer. Introversions was one of the earliest 'indie' companies, releasing games like Uplink, Defcon and Darwinia whilst Vlambeer were still in short pants. After years of struggling, they've finally hit a huge success with Prison Architect, a game where you build, staff, outfit and manage a maximum security prison. With smart prisoners who are willing to do anything to escape, you'll struggle to keep them all inside - or keep them from rioting - and turn a profit. It's still in alpha, but it's eminently playable right now.. While something like Kerbal Space Program can actually take you to the moon, To The Moon is a game about wish fulfillment, and thrives on narrative beauty. If we were to make comparisons to films, Kerbal Space Program is Gravity, The Binding of Isaac is Saw and To the Moon is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. You control two doctors who are exploring a dying man’s memories to implant a false memory so he can die in peace. Which is all depicted in a classic 16-bit Zelda style. It’s a rare, emotional, adult game. Dwarf Fortress is its own genre, its own industry. This is a game that, before you've even set foot in it, has to generate the entire geography, mythology and history of its massive world. Then it tracks every single one of the dwarfs you're managing down to the hairs on their legs and the particular horrible elephant murder that they witnessed and they're now carving on an ornamental chair. Your task is to keep the dwarves alive as they carve out their subterranean kingdom - given that insanity, monsters, and starvation plague are thrown at them at every stage that's not easy. And dwarves, always, always mine too deep. Run. Jump. Die. Repeat. That’s essentially the gameplay loop of Super Meat Boy, a fiendishly addictive 2D platformer that’s also bloody hard, with an emphasis on bloody. Gallons of blood is spilled as the game’s eponymous meaty hero leaps over deadly drops, spinning saws and walking chainsaws in a bid to rescue his girlfriend, Bandage Girl, from the evil Dr Foetus. Obviously. Boasting tight controls, plenty of humor and colorful graphics, Super Meat Boy lept onto the PS4 and Vita last year in style – with a Nintendo Switch release coming soon, as well. It might not be Playdead’s most recent game, but Limbo is timeless. Even five years after its release, the game’s haunting storyline still affects us. You play the Boy, a child with glowing eyes who’s cast into Limbo to find his sister. Making your way through a bleak and dangerous world full of hostile silhouettes, giant spiders and deadly gravitational fields, you’ll need to think quickly and perfectly time your movements if you’re going to survive. But Limbo is much more than a simple platformer: it's an experience, and one that has you pondering the very essence of life by the time it's over. Deep, profound and absorbing, it's one indie game everybody should take time out to play. If you're yearning for a retro-styled multiplayer archery combat game (aren't we all?), TowerFall: Ascension is the pick of the lot. Fast, frenetic and teeth-gnashingly hard in hardcore mode, the game's mechanics are simple: fire arrows at enemies or jump on their heads to stay alive until the round ends. Arrows that don't hit are embedded in walls, making for tense scenarios when you have to traverse the map while dodging enemies to retrieve them. As such, practicing until you achieve Robin Hood-esque levels of accuracy is recommended. Ascension is best experienced with friends in local multiplayer mode, which recalls Super Smash Bros' most manic moments. It’s not often that a platformer manages to balance challenging and engaging gameplay with an emotional and thought-provoking narrative, but Celeste pulls it off. From the developers of Towerfall, Celeste follows the story of Madeline, a young girl who decides to face her mental health issues by climbing to the top of the mysterious Celeste Mountain. Ind doing so, she learns more not only about the mountain, but about herself amid the heartwarming process. An inevitable classic, Celeste integrates the obvious jump, air-dash and climb controls into a brutal series of platforming challenges in upwards of 700 unique screens. And, if that’s too easy, you’ll unlock B-side chapters along the way, designed for only the bravest of hardcore players. Better yet, you don’t have to worry about waiting an eternity between each respawn. Instead, Celeste brings you back from the grave instantaneously, a welcome departure from the typically extensive load screens. Have you ever wanted to land on an alien planet, and build a factory? We admit that it’s an odd premise, but we promise that it works out in Satisfactory. You’ll land on one of three planets of varying difficulty, where you’ll be tasked with building and automating a factory to exploit the world around you. It’s a bland sounding premise, but being able to explore these beautiful worlds in first person, while scavenging materials and fighting off hostile wildlife makes it all that more exciting. Plus, there’s nothing better than sitting back and admiring something you worked hard on, right? Satisfactory is in early access right now, and exclusive to the Epic Games Store, but if you can get past all that, you’re sure to get hours of wholesome simulation out of it. After the raging success that was the original Nidhogg, it’s a shame to see the superior sequel get thrown under the bus. Nevertheless, in spite of its controversial art style, Nidhogg 2 packs a refined, gorgeous look that the first version, a cult-classic, couldn’t even think to compete with. In still frames, we can see how this could get misconstrued, but fortunately, it’s the fun and addictive local multiplayer gameplay that makes Nidhogg, well, Nidhogg. And it’s all there in Nidhogg 2. Plus, every time you respawn, you get one of four unique weapons that only bolster the challenge. Esteemed indie designer Jon Blow's follow up to Braid may look like an entirely different adventure, being 3D and all, but the two are more thematically alike than you might think. The Witness, at its core, is another puzzle game that tells an interesting story through said puzzles. This puzzler takes place in an almost equally impressionist – albeit heavily Myst-inspired – world, but it's story is far more nuanced and mysterious than Blow's previous. At almost every corner of this island that you've simply woken up on (or beneath), there is a clue as to how you got onto this island and why you're here. Don’t get us wrong, we liked Bastion, but we won’t deny that Transistor was SuperGiant Games’ best work to date. Much of that has to do with the convergence of action-based and turn-based RPG elements contained within its cyberpunk futurescape. Likewise, in classic SuperGiant fashion, those mechanics are complemented by a gorgeous art style and a music score so unforgettable it’ll make you want to buy the soundtrack. Leaving key gameplay beats up to the player, the story isn’t so variable. Transistor’s main character, Red, is a renowned singer in the city of Cloudbank. However, she’s been attacked by a group of vicious robots who call themselves the Process, operated by another group called the Camerata. In her journey, she finds the Transistor, a mysterious sword with the voice of a man. Soon enough, she’ll learn more about him and how he will shake up her world. It’s weird to think that Oxenfree came out before the first season of Stranger Things, and yet, the two properties coincidentally have a lot in common. The 80s-inspired heavy synth music composed by scntfc, for one, accentuates some truly gripping sci-fi horror centering around – you guessed it – a group of teenagers stuck on an island. The story involves a handful of uniquely written characters, namely the main character Alex, along with her stoner friend Ren, her newfound stepbrother Jonas, her dead brother Michael’s ex-girlfriend Clarissa and her best friend Nona (who Ren happens to be in love with). The plot is explained through branching speech dialogue, similar to Life is Strange or modern-day Telltale games, and features five different endings depending on your choices. Plus, at the time of this writing, Oxenfree is free on the Epic Games Store. Exploring a surreal wilderness seems like quite the trend these days in gaming, and developer Campo Santo's debut only serves to keep it going strong. Set in the wilderness of 1989 Wyoming, you're Henry, a fire lookout that's all alone in the woods after exploring something strange in the distance. That is, save for your partner on the other line of a walkie-talkie: Delilah. She's your only point of contact as you explore the wilderness. Will you make it back alive? Will the decisions you make help or harm the relationship with your only lifeline to the outside world, your boss? Don't worry about those questions just yet – just look at those forestscapes! Rust is one of the more successful indie titles of recent times. By the end of 2015 it had sold more than 3 million copies, which isn't too shabby considering it isn't even finished — the game has been on Steam's Early Access scheme since launching in December 2013. Still, it seems people can't get enough of the Day Z-inspired survival sim. It sees you use your wits and bearings to survive its harsh open world, starting off with nothing but a rock. After gathering resources needed to build a house and weapons to fend off attackers (other online players, in other words), Rust gradually becomes more intense as you defend your growing base — or attempt to breach others'. Fans of the original Overcooked will not be disappointed by the second installment in the chaotic couch co-op series from British indie game developer Team17. This time your task is to defeat the 'Un-Bread' (zombie baked goods) that have taken over the Onion Kingdom, by battling through brand new recipes including sushi, pizza, and burgers in increasingly chaotic kitchens with up to three other people. To add to the frantic fun, you must battle obstacles including random fires, collapsing floors, and interfering passers by, all while getting your orders out to the pass in time. Things get complicated incredibly quickly, and relationships, friendships, and family bonds will be tested as you work together to complete your recipes on time, making it a fun and challenging couch co-op game that will make you truly understand the meaning of "too many cooks spoil the broth." The natural progression of survival games, SCUM takes what both predecessors like Rust and PlayerUnknown’s battlegrounds succeeded at and iterates in impressive ways. And, while it’s still in early access, it offers a unique twist – combining the frenetic gameplay of battle royale games with the slow, thoughtful gameplay of a survival sim. SCUM, unlike other similar games, is extremely heavy on the simulation side of things, however. You shouldn’t expect to run in guns blazing, as you’re going to get tired quickly (just as you would if you tried running outside yourself with a ton of stuff in your backpack). But, if heavy statistic systems is something your into, you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s like spreadsheets with a physics engine. Just don’t go in expecting a polished experience just yet. However, developer Croteam is promising to add more features over time, and as they’re backed by Devolver, you can trust that the game is going to shape up into something great. Every so often there’s a game that perfectly merges aesthetic, gameplay and narrative – where everything feels like it just, well, fits. The best indie games are always the best at this, and Return of the Obra Dinn is a great example. A mystery taking place on a derelict ship, you’re tasked with figuring out how the crew of this lost ship died, disappeared or worse. The entire game has this old-school visual style that, combined with the simple controls and gameplay style make it feel like a nostalgic adventure. Right from the settings menu, you’ll get to choose what kind of monitor you’d like to emulate – we picked an old school Macintosh option – that should give you an idea of the type of retro revivalism on offer here. Return of the Obra Dinn is a game that will require critical thinking, exploration and a ton of reading. So, if that all sounds appealing to you, and you’re all good with retro aesthetics, you will find a lot to love – it’s one of the best indie games, in a season marked with AAA decadence. If you’re anything like us, you’ve spent hundreds of hours playing Roller Coaster Tycoon during your childhood. And, while there have been plenty of amusement park simulators over the last few years, they’ve never quite hit the spot. Until now. Parkitect is the closest we’ve ever been to those early aughts park simulators, and we’re absolutely in love. From the cartoonish art style to the realistic simulation and Steam Workshop integration, Parkitect is one of the best indie games 2018 has to offer. For years, thatgamecompany has been behind some of the best indie games on the market, only most of them had been exclusive to PlayStation. One such game was Flower. Serving as kind of a precursor to the beloved Journey, Flower puts you in command of a flower petal, surfing through the wind. You’ll activate different colors of flower beds to affect the environment, which will also get you different colored petals, until you have an entire trail of color surfing the wind. It’s an incredibly relaxing and artful experience, and it might just contain a message about the industrial world we all find ourselves living in. Trust us, give it a shot, it’s one of the best and most legendary indie games ever. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best wireless routers 2019: the best routers for your home network Posted: 01 Apr 2019 01:17 PM PDT The best routers have never been more important, especially when you consider that everything we do is online. We work online, play online, even socialize online. So picking up one of the best wireless routers can make a world of difference. Whether you’re just trying to watch your favorite programs on Netflix, or top the leaderboards in the best PC games, no one wants a poor connection. That’s why picking up the best wireless router is so important. However, before you go and angrily call up your ISP, demanding the fastest internet on offer, you should pick up the best router. This is because even the fastest internet connection in the world won’t do much good if you don’t have a wireless router that’s up to the task. So, whether you need a gaming router or a wireless mesh router, the best routers are critically important. However, you may be asking: what makes for an awesome wireless router? Well, there are a couple features you need to keep an eye out for. Both MU-MIMO and QoS (Quality of Service) will ensure that your online experience isn't throttled by your roommates. You should also look for a fast router – one with a rated speed of AC1900 should be just fine for most users. However, you might notice that there are hundreds of wireless routers out there, and it can get hard telling them apart. But, that’s why we here at TechRadar have picked out all our favorite wireless routers, from the Google Wifi to the TP-Link Archer C5400, so you can be sure you’re getting your money’s worth.
The days of traditional wireless routers is coming to its end – the age of the wireless mesh router has arrived. Google Wifi is the best proof we can think of for this mesh revolution. You can finally say goodbye to the days when the only way to achieve wireless freedom was to install a bunch of wireless extenders. The premise of Google Wifi is simple – buy a set of points and place them in key locations around your home. Then, just scan a QR code and you’re good to go – it’s not just the best wireless router you can buy, it’s also the easiest to get going. Read the full review: Google Wifi
If you know Asus, and more specifically its gaming products, you should know what you’re getting with the Asus RT-AC86U. This wireless router looks like what would happen if you poured Mountain Dew and Doritos into a wireless router manufacturing machine – it’ll definitely stand out wherever you put it. Beneath its garish design is hardware that, for its price, easily tops the competition. You’re not paying a premium here for a gaming device, and if you’re looking for a fast connection at a great price, the Asus RT-AC86U is a great wireless router, as long as you can stomach the aesthetic. Read the full review: Asus RT-AC86U
When the Netgear Orbi first hit the streets, it completely changed the wireless router game. And, in 2019, Netgear is offering the Netgear Orbi AC2200 RBK23, a more affordable router for casual users that don’t need to cover a stately mansion. It features less antennae and ethernet ports than the original, but it’s still enough to offer very solid network coverage. Plus, the smaller size means that it can more easily blend in – you won’t feel the need to obscure it. Read the full review: Netgear Orbi AC2200 RBK23
Now that smart homes are becoming more and more common, we need wireless routers that can also serve as a smart home hub. This doesn’t just do wonders for convenience, but it would clear out some of the clutter made by multiple routers, modems and hubs. And, the Samsung Connect Home does exactly that. It’s not the most feature-rich wireless router out there, but it’s competitive enough with the Google Wifi, while still packing in the SmartThings hub that it’s still one of the best routers – especially if you have a ton of smart devices. Read the full review: Samsung Connect Home
If you’re in the market for a high-end wireless router that looks like it was a prop in some 90s Sci-Fi flick, you may want to look at the TP-Link Archer C5400 v2. Sure, it’s not a trendy mesh wireless router, but it’s unique in its ability to bridge consumer and enterprise users by featuring high-end functionality at an affordable price point – with easy setup to boot. It might look weird, but if you’re looking for a wireless router that’ll cover a large home, you can’t go wrong here. Read the full review: TP-Link Archer C5400 v2
If you’re ready to bring your office’s networking into the modern age with one of the best wireless routers, you need to take a look at the Netgear Orbi Pro. It’s a modular Wi-Fi mesh router, but it takes some design and performance cues from business-grade products. It’s not cheap, but if you run a business where you can’t afford anyone slowing down due to poor Wi-Fi, it’s worth every penny. Read the full review: Netgear Orbi Pro
These days, wireless mesh routers are everywhere, and we love it – the level of coverage these routers offer is beyond anything we’ve seen in the past. And, with devices like the TP-Link Deco M9, we can see how wireless routers keep getting better. By integrating IoT smart home support, on top of industry standard speeds and coverage, the TP-Link Deco M9 is easily one of the best routers for smart home fanatics. It’s a bit pricey, but with all the features and performance you’re getting, it’s worth it. Read the full review: TP-Link Deco M9
If you’re looking to jump on the mesh wireless router trend, but you’re trying to save a few bucks, and don’t really care about some advanced tech mumbo-jumbo – the D-Link Covr-C1203 might just be the best wireless router for you. It offers the same type of coverage as something like the Google Wifi at a lower cost, but with slightly slower speeds – it’ll still be fast enough for most users, though. It also features an attractive triangular design, which should fit in nicely with your decor – you won’t need to hide it in shame. Read the full review: D-Link Covr-C1203
If you’ve been on the market for a wireless mesh router, but wanted to maintain control over your network, you’ll love the Eero Home Wi-Fi system. It’s more expensive than your standard router, but it allows users complete control over their network, while still providing a secure connection through AI. To make things better, the Eero Home Wi-Fi System includes subscriptions to 1Password, MalwareBytes and Encrypt.me VPN – which should keep everyone on your network secure. Read the full review: Eero Home Wi-Fi System
It might be even more expensive than the Google Wifi for similar performance, but the Amplifi HD has a modern, clean look to it. Aesthetic doesn’t matter to everyone, obviously, but it does help prevent users from installing this wireless router behind objects that will obscure its signal. This is a wireless router that features excellent performance with stylistic flair to match – as long as you have the cash. Read the full review: Amplifi HD Joe Osborne, Bill Thomas and Gabe Carey have also contributed to this article
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| Windows 7 use finally declines as the OS nears its end Posted: 01 Apr 2019 01:14 PM PDT As Windows 7 nears its EOL (end of life), market data appears to show the operating system (OS) is losing users. While there had been a momentary uptick in market share for Windows 7 in February 2019, the most recent data shows Windows 7 declining in March, according to the latest Netmarketshare report. Late last year, Windows 10 finally overtook Windows 7 to become the most widely used desktop OS. For December 2018, Netmarketshare showed Windows 10 holding 39.22% of users while Windows 7 had fallen to 36.9%. In January, not long after Windows 10's rise to the top, Microsoft announced that it would no longer support Windows 7 after January 14, 2020. That means there will be no more free security patches, but some users can pay for ongoing support, as there will be paid extended security updates for Windows 7 Enterprise and Microsoft 365 customers. One last hurrahIn spite of the EOL announcement, Windows 7 actually rose back up to hold 38.41% of the OS market share in February, but that didn't last. The latest data shows Windows 10 now up to 43.62% market share, its highest yet. Meanwhile, Windows 7 has fallen down to 36.52%. With the decline now seeming substantial, and Windows 7 not having much life left to offer non-business users, this may truly be the beginning of the end for the decade-old OS. Now, the only question is whether Microsoft will ever get the Windows 10 October 2018 Update out the door to all users, or whether those left behind will hold out for the (hopefully) more stable Windows 10 April 2019 Update. The other option for those folks? Head to macOS or Linux. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Cloudflare launches new VPN with emphasis on speed Posted: 01 Apr 2019 01:05 PM PDT Cloudflare is bucking the trend of revealing a fake product on April Fool's day by actually releasing a new VPN service designed to be as fast or even faster than a traditional mobile connection. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have grown increasingly popular among consumers and businesses as they help keep your data private and your connection secure. However, since traffic from your device goes through someone else's servers before reaching the web, VPNs generally tend to slow down your network connection. Cloudflare has found a way around this by incorporating Google's QUIC protocol into its new mobile-only VPN, Warp.
The company's CEO Matthew Prince explained why it decided to develop and launch its own VPN service, saying: "We wanted to build a VPN service that my dad would install on his phone. If you tell him that it will make his connection more private and secure, he'd never do it. But if you tell him it will make his connection faster, make his phone's battery last longer, and make his connections more private, then it would be something he'd install." WarpMobile users can sign up for the new service, dubbed Warp, through Cloudflare's mobile app 1.1.1.1 beginning today but it could take a few days to become operational. Warp will provide a faster browsing experience than traditional VPNs thanks to the QUIC protocol which the company has decided to utilize instead of TCP which was first introduced in 1981. In internal tests at Google, QUIC led to 30 percent less “rebuffering” for YouTube users and once fully implemented the new protocol should improve browsing speeds across the internet as a whole. While Google supports its own version of QUIC in Chrome, the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) is still working on a specification for the new protocol so that it can be used by other companies as well. Cloudflare has 165 data centers in 76 countries and Warp will rely on this same network of servers. The new service will also make it easier for the company's customers to access their data as it is already cached on its servers. In addition to the free version of Warp, Cloudflare plans to offer a paid version that will be even faster according to Prince. Via Wired
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| The Apple Arcade strategy so far, and why it could work Posted: 01 Apr 2019 12:59 PM PDT If you’re tired of the mess of free-to-play and ad-supported games available on your iPhone, Apple Arcade is a promising solution: play anything you want from a curated catalogue of titles that don’t have any frustrating or distracting microtransactions. If you want, switch over to play it on your iPad, Mac or Apple TV – the service saves your in-game progress between platforms. Best of all, the catalogue includes some games that won’t be available anywhere else. Simplicity and exclusivity – that’s Apple’s pitch. Its upcoming gaming service is slated to launch in ‘fall 2019’ in over 150 regions, though the company has kept mum about a lot of specifics. While we had a lot of questions when the service was introduced, some of those have been answered – and we have a clearer idea of who the service is for and how it will try to carve out a space in the crowded gaming ecosystem. First, what the service is not: competing with platforms offering AAA games. Thanks to Apple’s inflexible requirement that games on Apple Arcade must be playable on iOS, macOS and tvOS, nothing in the catalogue will likely be a graphical powerhouse like those coming out for the latest consoles and PC. There’s a lot else we aren’t sure of, like its multiplayer capabilities, that could limit what kinds of games we’ll see on the service.
But here’s what Apple believes Apple Arcade does offer: unique (and some exclusive) games that could only happen on its service, which is easy to play and easier to get into since the potential userbase is (almost) every iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV owner. (We don’t know exactly which older devices will be compatible with Arcade; the only official word thus far is a small disclaimer in the announcement video stating “Compatible hardware and software required.” We do know that developers will design their titles to require devices to run a certain version or newer of each OS, but those thresholds haven’t been officially announced yet, and may end up being particular to each game.) Of course, its catalogue will probably make or break Apple Arcade’s appeal. And yes, Apple assembled an impressive list of popular studios, large and small (Sega, Annapurna, Klei, Konami, Lego, and many others), to boost the service’s credibility. Those launch titles will only carry it so far, though: the continuing appeal depends on Apple’s curation.
Image credit: Apple How Apple will carve out its own spaceThat’s because Apple is getting very hands-on with Arcade, taking an active role in guiding developers to produce games that fit the service. This almost certainly means titles will be family-friendly across the board, but there are other abstract criteria that the company isn’t discussing this early. But this far out, it’s clear that Apple wants Arcade’s collection to be two things: broadly appealing and unique. It will accomplish the former by attracting both indie developers and huge brands; Team Sonic Racing and two Lego titles, for example, are among the growing list of confirmed titles. To get unique games, Apple is offering to financially assist developers during production. But they also believe Arcade’s subscription model – which guarantees some degree of regular income – will allow developers to take more risks and make the games they want instead of forcing monetization into the design to ensure revenue flow. Looking at the games that have been confirmed, which Gamespot has helpfully collected, we see a collection of titles across many genres, all with strong artistic styles and many that sport inventive premises. There’s even an AR game or two in there, hinting at where Apple wants to expand. The collection will likely have something for everyone, including families with young children (each subscription supports Family Share, allowing up to six people to play on the same account). Some of these games will only be on Apple Arcade, conceivably forever. But there’s various tiers of exclusivity here, and the lowest will simply guarantee that this is the only mobile gaming platform that some of these titles will be playable on. You’ll still be able to pick those low-exclusivity titles up elsewhere – Giant Squid Studio’s adventure game The Pathless, for example, was previously announced for PS4 and PC via the Epic Store – but it’ll be looped in to the Arcade’s collection as a nice, fitting addition. What won’t Arcade have? Fortnite. You can already play it for free, duh – but more to the point, Arcade will be nested in its own tab within the App Store. In other words, Apple sees Arcade as a pillar in an overall gaming ecosystem rather than a standalone service siloed in its own app. If you want to download Fortnite, Clash Royale or other F2P titles, they’re just a tab away.
Image credit: Apple Who really wins: Mac ownersArcade’s game library will still have to win over fans on all platforms, but one consumer group will find it more appealing than others: Mac owners. The historically underserved group has made do with the limited releases or just running Windows OS via BootCamp, and it rarely gets first-run games when they’re initially launched. Mac hardware isn’t terribly great for cutting-edge gaming, either, and last year’s macOS High Sierra update enabled external GPUs over Thunderbolt 3 cords – but excluded Nvidia support. In other words, Arcade is the best first-party Apple news to happen to Mac gamers in years – and the same is true of AppleTV owners, who have had minimal big-name games come to the platform, especially since the experiment bringing Minecraft to the platform was quietly shuttered due to lack of interest. Both of these groups will probably be very interested in what Arcade has to offer. Lest you worry about the different interfaces between games, some will support controllers.
Of course, Mac owners might just bypass technical requirements entirely if Google Stadia’s streaming service ends up working seamlessly over the browser, as promised. Apple Arcade’s minor advantage: its games are playable once downloaded, meaning you don’t have to sustain an internet connection, which is appealing for folks without reliable connectivity. Ergo, Arcade’s appeal will lean heavily on its content. The service will have over 100 games (either at its ‘fall 2019’ launch or after is unclear), which are curated by experts. That initial salvo may have several big titles that appear elsewhere, but we might not see the real standouts until Apple’s publisher-like guidance and financial support allow developers to really stretch their creative muscles and make experiences we won’t find anywhere else. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best noise-cancelling headphones 2019: the best headphones for travel and commuting Posted: 01 Apr 2019 12:57 PM PDT Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Buying Guide: Welcome to TechRadar's round-up of the best noise-cancelling headphones you can buy in 2019. Few people enjoy commuting, and for most, it's a necessary evil to get us from A to B. But there are many ways to make it more bearable, especially to make the chatter and traffic sounds more bearable. Trains, buses, or even walking down a busy street can be awfully noisy, but there are lots of tech tools to help you block out the noise and help you reach audio nirvana. By far the best tools for your anti-sound arsenal are noise-cancelling headphones. And some of the best models come from the top audio manufacturers, including Sony, Bose and Sennheiser. With many of the best noise-cancelling headphones, you can put a pair on and say goodbye to the days of suffering from honking traffic, crying babies, and noisy conversations. That's right, these true wonders of the modern era totally tune out any unwanted sounds, while simultaneously making your music sound even better than any old pair of in-ear earbuds. We believe that noise-cancelling cans are just as vital as your laptop, TV or mobile phone when it comes to tech that'll change how you live, work and play. That means that choosing the right pair is important. Luckily, to help you pick out a pair of headphones that deliver all of the above in spades, we've put together a list of our favorite noise-cancelling headphones, listed below and ranked by their price-to-performance ratio. Can't decide which headphones to buy? Check out our guide video below: What are the best noise-cancelling headphones?
The Sony WH-1000XM3 are the best noise-cancelling headphones in the world two years running. Sure, they might be a small refinement of last year's excellent WH-1000XM2, but subtle tweaks like using USB-C instead of microUSB and adding padding along the bridge help make Sony's award-winning cans even better. So why does everyone love the WH-1000XM3 so much? Well, it's exceptionally good at cancelling outside noise. Put a pair on while vacuuming and you'll barely hear the motor running. For music lovers, the Sony WH-1000XM3 features aptX HD and Sony LDAC, two of the best ways to listen to Hi-Res music from your phone without a wire. Finally, all of Sony's flagship headphones offer both Google Assistant and, starting in 2019, Alexa support, making them not only the best noise-cancelling cans on the market but some of the smartest, too. Read the full review: Sony WH-1000XM3
If you can find a pair, the Sony WH-1000XM2 are still some of the best noise-cancelling headphones around: They sound great, deftly wield noise cancellation technology and cost just as much as a pair of Bose QC35s. They might have a slightly shorter battery life than Bose’s flagship over-ear headphones, but Sony’s WH-1000XM2 outclass the QC35 in terms of performance and feature-set. You’d want to pick these Sony headphones over the Bose because not only do they provide the same level of awesome noise-cancellation, but they have three neat tricks that Bose just doesn't have on its headphones: One is an ambient noise mode that only lets in mid-to-high frequency tones (announcements over a loudspeaker, for instance) and another being Quick Attention mode that allows you to let in all outside noise without taking off the headphones. (The latter is perfect when giving a drink order on a plane or speaking to a coworker for a brief moment before diving back into your work.) The last trick Sony has up its sleeve is the LDAC codec. Alongside the widely adopted aptX HD standard, LDAC enables Hi-Res Audio playback using the 1000XM2. Great-sounding, feature-packed and just as affordable as the competition? The Sony WH-1000XM2 are a solid all-around pick for noise-cancelling cans. Read the full review: Sony WH-1000XM2
Coming in at the number two spot is the Bose QuietComfort 35 II - a nearly identical product to the already-excellent Bose QuietComfort 35 but updated for 2018 with Google Assistant. This means you still get the class-leading noise cancellation Bose is known for, good sound quality and incredible comfort, plus a convenient assistant to answer any inquiries you might have while traveling. Taken as a whole, the Bose QC35 II NC is an excellent headphone for travelers and commuters. Bose has found a good balance of features that will satisfy most mainstream listeners. While we don't love them as much as the better-sounding Sony WH-1000XM2, they're still top of the class for noise cancellation. Read the full review: Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The PXC 550's greatest strength is their sound. Other wireless noise-cancelling headphones might offer a better user interface or better noise-cancellation technology, but ultimately none of the above match up to the sound quality of these Sennheisers. However, that said, there are a couple of irritations that prevent us from being able to fully and unreservedly recommend them, such as unresponsive touch controls. These annoyances aren't quite deal-breakers, but there are definitely other noise-cancelling headphones out there that don't suffer from the same issues. Read the full review: Sennheiser PXC 550
Philips presents a more elegant noise-cancelling solution with its NC1. These on-ear headphones aren't wireless like our top pick, but that's hardly a reason to knock them. Coming in at $299/£195, the NC1 are a compact set that's high on comfort and battery life. You get a lot for the money here. In the box comes the headphones, a hard case for storage and the headphones rock a rechargeable battery that provides noise cancellation for close to 30 hours. But best of all, the sound performance is extremely well balanced and warm. (A quite note for our Australian readers: Philips sadly no longer sells the NC1's down under, so you'll need to import a pair if you're keen.) Read the full review: Philips Fidelio NC1
A few years ago, the Bose QuietComfort 25 are the best noise-cancelling headphones we've ever used. The lows, mids and highs came through clear as day, never stepping over each other. Music of all sorts sounded predictably incredible. With the noise-cancellation turned on, we never felt further immersed and concentrated than when we let the QC25 engulf our ears. But that was a few years ago and time has moved on since. Bose has released not just one sequel to these headphones, but two: the QC35 and QC35 II with Google Assistant built in, both of which we'd recommend above the QC25. But, it's not all bad. If you don't mind using the older, wired headphones, the QC25s are a finely-tuned set of cans that provide over 35 hours of very good noise-cancelling performance with one AAA battery. Read the full review: Bose QuietComfort 25 [Update: These headphones also come in a wireless version - check out our review of of the Bose QuietComfort 35.
Bowers and Wilkins are a little late to the noise-cancellation game, but their first foray impresses. The PX Wireless aren't just a great sounding pair of headphones, they've also got a number of other interesting tricks up their sleeve. They'll turn on and off automatically depending on whether you're wearing them or not, and they also feature the future-proof USB-C charging standard. In our opinion their only downside is the sound quality, which we felt lacks the depth of the flagship headphones from Bose and Sony. That said, if you've been a fan of the look of B&W's headphones in the past then the PX Wireless are certainly worth a listen. Read the full review: Bowers and Wilkins PX Wireless
With noise-cancelling tech just as effective as that in headphones from rival Bose, and with a more musical sonic ability, the Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC are a definite contender for the noise-cancelling crown. More affordable and easy to travel with, these lightweight headphones are a great value all-rounder, whether for flights, commuter trains or busy offices. Design-wise, the Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNCs seem a more slimmed-down, lighter and more focused effort than the bulky and expensive alternatives from Bose and Sony; and crucially, the HD 4.50 BTNCs are just as good with audio, and almost as good on noise-canceling. Whether you're after noise canceling for long-haul ravel, for the commute, or just to stay more productive in a noisy office, the Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNCs are worth considering. Read the full review: Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC
For the money, the JBL Live 650BTNC punch above its weight in terms of sound quality, build, and features. They offer your choice of either Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa voice assistant, and can have their EQ customized by the JBL Headphones app. Battery life is rated at 20 hours with ANC and wireless enabled and if you use the JBL Live 650BTNC with a wire with ANC enabled, you can get upwards 30 hours on a single charge. If you don’t want to splurge on the Bose QC35 II or Sony WH-1000XM3, you’ll be satisfied with the JBL Live 650BTNC knowing that you’re getting 80% of the performance at 50% of the price tag. Read the full review: JBL Live 650BTNC
With the second generation Plantronics BackBeat Pro, Plantronics went back to the drawing board to fix many of the issues owners complained about the original. The BackBeat Pro 2, therefore, manage to keep all the great things about the original and improved upon its shortcomings, like its bulk and weight. In terms of value, the BackBeat Pro 2 are basically a steal. With the BackBeat Pro 2, you’re getting a travel headphone with incredible battery life, supreme comfort, the ability to pair two device as once and, most importantly, good sound quality for the cost. If you don’t want to drop $350 (£290, AU$500) on the Bose QuietComfort 35 or $400 (£330 or AU$700) on Sony’s flagship MDR-1000X, the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 should be on the top of your shopping list. Read the full review: Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2
Overall, Microsoft’s Surface headphones are surprisingly good, with a stunningly warm sound, and generous bass frequencies, which means your music will sound great whether you’re listening to subby hip-hop or acoustic singer-songwriters. One criticism of this warm sound is that it can take some of the attack away from lower-mid frequencies, which some users may find a bit underwhelming. However, if sharp trebles and mids tend to give you listening fatigue, these could be the perfect headphones for you. The calling card of these headphones is the active noise cancellation, which we felt worked really well, and we loved how easy it was to control this using the inbuilt dials on each housing. Although we were initially unconvinced by the high price (particularly when you can buy quality cans from heritage audio brands for less), the features work so seamlessly that it feels justified.
If you haven't found something quite to your liking so far, we have one last option for you to look at – the all-new Nura Nuraphone over-ear/in-ear hybrid. Their form factor means you’ve not only got an earbud sitting at the entrance of your ear canal, but also an over-ear cushion sitting over your entire ear. This effectively means you’ve got two physical barriers meaning that the noise from the outside world can’t get to your ears. While more traditional over-ear headphones do a better job offering useful features at a reasonable price, the Nuraphone will appeal to the more experimental audio crowd looking to be on the bleeding-edge of the next big thing. Read our full review: Nuraphone Headphones
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| Best cheap headphones: your guide to the best budget headphones in 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 12:12 PM PDT Headphones are like pieces of art: while the real connoisseurs can spend a fortune on them, for most folks, budget models work just as well. Just like art, there's a big difference between finger painting and Picasso – with a happy medium somewhere in between – and the same is true for headphones. Here at TechRadar, we’ve sort of built a reputation for covering all of the latest, greatest and priciest technology in the world. However, even in the face of all of that high-end equipment, we still have a passion for finding great tech items that anyone can afford, and the best cheap headphones are a great place to start.
It’s this passion for affordability that inspired us to create this list of the best cheap headphones on the market in 2019 – we’ve put our bargain-hunting prowess to great use and found a great deal of cheap headphones that you can buy without thinking twice about it. By their very nature, the headphones you prefer will ultimately boil down to your own personal taste. However, seeing as the headphone market is extremely saturated, it is genuinely hard to figure out what the best headphones for your tastes actually are. That’s where we come in. Now, bear with us – it’s impossible to get our hands on every affordable pair of headphones, but we won’t recommend anything we haven’t used ourselves. So if we missed your favorite pair of headphones, it wasn’t on purpose, we assure you. With this guide, we went through a process – exhaustively testing a huge amount of cheap headphones from all over the internet in every style under the sun. In-ear, over-ear, wireless – everything you can think of. We then took the results of all of this exhaustive testing, and measured each headphone against each other until we could confidently pick a few to proudly wear the ‘best cheap headphones’ badge. So rest assured, even if we didn’t pick your favorite headphone, there isn’t a single pair in this list that will disappoint. What are the best cheap headphones?
While wired headphones may be way of the dodo with disappearing headphone jacks, there are still plenty of reasons to go wired. Two of the biggest reasons is sound quality and price. While there are cheap wireless headphones out there, they sound much worse than wired headphones for the same price. In the budget in-ear headphone category, you usually sacrifice sound and build quality for price. However, there are rare gems that are affordable, sound great, and are built well. The RHA MA390 is one of those headphones. While the RHA MA390 is the cheapest headphone the company makes, it doesn’t sacrifice on build quality, design, or sound: These headphones are beautifully crafted out of aluminum, feature a braided cable, and a universal remote that works with Android and iOS. While not perfect, the RHA M390 are an excellent value in the budget in-ear category.
The OnePlus Bullets Wireless are an excellent pair of wireless headphones, especially considering that you can get them for $70 (£70, about AU$124). At this price, no other neckbud comes close. The OnePlus Bullets Wireless are so good, in fact, that they’ve unseated the NuForce BE6i and Beats X in our list of the best wireless earbuds. This is a pair of wireless earbuds that we have no hesitation recommending to anyone.
It was love at first listen with the Skullcandy Grind. These bass-heavy headphones bring a built-in microphone to the mix and offer amazing sound quality at a bargain basement price. They do everything we want in a pair of on-ear headphones – they’re light, but not fragile. They’re powerful, but are directional enough that sound doesn’t spew out everywhere, alerting your neighbors that you’re listening to Taylor Swift again. If Skullcandy’s low-end-heavy tone and teenager-esque style aren’t for you, there’s always the equally good Urbanears Plattan II – a more balanced pair of on-ears that cost almost exactly the same amount as the Skullcandy Grind.
As great as wired headphones can be, being constantly tethered to your phone, MP3 Player or PC can be downright irritating. If you find yourself ready to tear the cord out of the jack once and for all, you need a pair of wireless cans. For those looking to cut the cord on the cheap, the Creative Sound Blaster JAM is the way to go. It's lightweight, sounds great and is dirt cheap. What makes it on-ear headphones? Well, the foam earpads sit directly on top of your ears instead of encompassing them entirely, something some folks find more comfortable. Our only real complaint about the Creative Sound Blaster JAM is that, because they're on-ear headphones, they let in ambient noise like no one's business. This is totally fine for the dull roar of an office (and might even be helpful if someone needs to grab your attention real quick) but, for commuters or anyone who can't stand to hear the outside world while listening to their tunes, you're best served looking at one of the over-ear options coming up on the list.
It’s easy to spend an arm and a leg on good over-ear headphones. Barring the exception of noise-cancelling and planar magnetic cans, they are the top dogs of the audio world. Really good over-ears should be the most comfortable, most versatile headphones in your audio arsenal. They should be just as adept with Hi-Def audio sources of 16-bit/44.1KHz as they are streaming from Spotify, and they should do so without sacrificing either end of the audio spectrum. In our testing we found a half-dozen that can do the job (the Status Audio CB-1 come to mind, as do the Sennheiser HD201 and Audio-Technica ATH-M20X) but, of them all, the Monoprice 8323 Hi-FI DJ Style Headphones are the cream of the crop. They’re a bit cheaper constructed than the others, but for their price they sound outrageously clear. Balanced and powerful, the Monoprice 8323 is the epitome of what the best cheap headphones should be.
If you’re not wedded to the idea of owning full-size headphones, there’s quite a lot of competition worth considering around this price. However, you can’t argue with the Taotronics TT-BH040s' value: While not packed with character, they carry themselves with a premium look above the affordable price tag, with aluminium touches and a generally pleasant design. From a distance, and even close up, few would guess they are so affordable ... just don’t buy them expecting the same performance as the most desirable pairs from Beats, Sennheiser or Bose.
Beyerdynamic makes loads of equipment for both audiophiles and audio professionals, and some of it comes at a high price. But, the Beyerdynamic DT 240 Pro headphones find a sweet spot offering professional audio and a high standard in design for a lower price point. The DT 240 Pro headphones cost $99 (£89, AU$139), making them more affordable than heaps of other studio monitor headphones. This price puts them in close competition with some of Audio-Technica’s cans, like the widely praised ATH-M40X or the wireless ATH-SR5BT, which can be found on sale in the same ballpark as the DT 240 Pro. Beyerdynamic shines in performance with the DT 240 Pro. As studio monitor headphones, the sound produced is not very colorful, but that’s exactly as it should be. All the sound comes through clean and incredibly well balanced. The bass is easy to pick up on without being thumpy, though with a subtle punch at higher volumes. From the bass on up to the high end, all the sounds mesh clearly, with the DT 240 Pros not boosting one register over the other. They're neutral, perfect for recording and best of all, cheap. Read the full review: Beyerdynamic DT 240 PRO What to look for in cheap headphones
In order to create this guide, we’ve tested, listened to and compared over 25 headphones in every category, shape and size. When we found a great pair, we then put it against the rest back-to-back-to-back to make sure they still really deserved the title of ‘best cheap headphones’. You might be wondering what we were looking for through all this expansive testing? Sound fidelity was clearly the most essential detail – but we also made sure to consider comfort, design and other features also. Like most people, we prefer our music detail-rich and well-balanced. We can live with our music sounding a bit warm with an emphasis on the mids and highs, but we still like to be able to feel the bass. Also, it’s important to look for headphones with reasonable battery life if they’re wireless, a robust, durable build that will stand up to the trials of everyday commute and comfortable padding to help make longer listening sittings nice and comfortable. Keep in mind though, that testing headphones will be, at least on some level, subjective, and our taste in tonal balance might not match yours (neither will the size of our head or the shape of our ears). Still, we’ve done our best to take subjectivity out of the equation and can present, through our expertise, the best cheap headphones that won’t hurt your wallet.
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| The best cheap smart home device deals in April 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 11:39 AM PDT Upgrade your living space into a smart home without breaking the bank with our hand-picked smart home devices that include speakers, security cameras, light bulbs and more. Create a smart home hub with these gadgets that work with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant to simplify your technology and help make your day-to-day life even easier. The best smart home device deals
The best-selling Echo Dot is a voice-controlled smart speaker that works with Alexa to make calls, answer questions, set alarms, check the weather and so much more. The compact smart speaker can also control your compatible smart home devices with the command of your voice. Just ask Alexa to find TV shows, turn on lights, adjust the temperature and more. You can use your voice to play a song or artist through Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, and others. Alexa has over 50,000 skills so you can discover new skills that will help you with everyday tasks.
The Amazon Echo smart speaker can play music, answer questions, set alarms and more all with the command of your voice. You can also control your other smart home devices with the Alexa-enabled speaker just ask Alexa to turn off the lights, adjust your thermostat, lock your door and more. The Echo can make calls and send and receive messages through the hands-free speaker. The smart speaker features a better audio experience than the Echo Dot offering a powerful audio with Dolby technology built in to the speaker.
Control your lighting from anywhere with the TP-Link Alexa-enabled light bulb. You can turn your lights on and off and adjust brightness with your tablet or smartphone using the Kasa app. You can connect the smart bulb with Alexa or Google Assistant devices and use your voice to control your lights. The easy-to-install light bulb can transform into any color to set the mood and personalize your lighting by adjusting brightness as well as light appearance from soft white to daylight. The TP-Link bulbs will also help you out with your energy costs by reducing energy use up to 80% without brightness or quality loss.
Turn your electronics and appliances into voice and app-controlled devices with the Kasa Smart WiFi plug by TP-Link. The smart plug works with Alexa and the Google Assistant so you can turn your devices into a hands-free experience. You can turn on lamps, appliances and more from anywhere on your smartphone using the Kasa app. You can also schedule the smart plug to automatically turn on and off when you're away and reduce your energy by managing devices that use the most power.
Help secure your home with the Ring Video Doorbell Pro that allows you to answer your door from anywhere. The Ring Pro works with Alexa and will send alerts to Echo devices which allows you to hear and speak to visitors entirely hands-free. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro also sends alerts to your smartphone when motion is detected or when someone presses the doorbell so you can monitor your home from anywhere. The Pro features advanced motion detection with a camera view that generates motion alerts within user-set motion zones. The Ring doorbell connects to your existing doorbell wiring so you don't have to worry about re-charging the battery and features four different faceplate options.
Control your thermostat from anywhere with the 3rd generation Nest Learning Thermostat. The smart thermostat uses technology to learn your habits and adjust automatically to help save you energy. On average the Nest thermostat saves 10-12% on heating bills and 15% on cooling bills so the Nest will pay for itself in no time. You're able to control your thermostat from anywhere with Nest app using your phone, tablet or laptop. The smart thermostat also works with Alexa so you can adjust and control the temperature with the command of your voice. The Nest thermostat features a thinner and sleeker design than previous models and comes in four different colors.
Clean your floors with the command of your voice and completely hands-free with the Wi-Fi connected iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum. You can use the iRobot home app to clean and schedule your vacuum from anywhere and receive notifications when the job is complete. The Roomba 960 can continuously clean for up to 75 minutes and will automatically recharge. The robot vacuum features a three-stage cleaning system and a high-efficiency filter that captures 99% of allergens, pollen, and dust. The Roomba is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant so you can control the vacuum with your voice.
Keep your home secure with the Arlo Pro two camera security system. The top rated security system includes two cameras, rechargeable batteries, power adapter and cable, wall mount, and a base station. The Arlo Pro cameras are weatherproof so they can be used indoors or outdoors and can operate in up to 122-degree temperature. The 100% wireless Arlo Pro records video in 1080p HD resolution and offers advanced motion detection to catch every angle so no moment goes unnoticed. The security system also has a smart siren that can be controlled remotely, or when motion or sound is detected. The security camera works with Alexa, and has a compatible app which allows you to monitor your home from anywhere.
The top-selling Anova Sous Vide lets you master the hottest cooking trend, sous vide. Just fill a pot with water, set the desired temperature and time, and cook everything (meat, souffle, carrots) to perfection. The Anova Sous Vide allows you to prepare restaurant quality meals by cooking your food at the precise temperature and not ever having to worrying about over-cooking. You can set the time and temperature manually on the device or through the Anova app. The app allows you to cook remotely, so you don't have to wait around in the kitchen waiting for your food to cook. The app also gives you access to over 1,000+ creative recipes and guides you through each recommended meal.
Build your smart lighting hub for your home with the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Starter Kit. The Philips starter kit includes three 60W white and color ambiance A19 bulbs, one Hue bridge, ethernet cable, and power adapter. The Hue hub is compatible with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant so you can control your lighting with your voice. The Hue color bulbs allow you to choose from sixteen million colors in the Hue app to set the perfect mood and create a unique and personalized lighting experience. The Hue app also lets you sync your lighting with movies and music and allows you to control everything remotely. The Hue hub will enable you to add on to your smart lighting system with the bridge accommodating up to fifty Hue lights.
Secure your home the smart way with the Schlage Connect Touchscreen Deadbolt. The Schlage connect features a touch screen keypad which allows for keyless entry. This lets every member in your family have their own 4-digit code that will be easy to remember. You can also create temporary codes for visitors and never have to worry about replacing locks or exchanging keys. The Schlage Connect is Z-Wave compatible and connects to your home automation system which allows you to lock or unlock your door remotely. You can also use your voice to control the lock with any Amazon Alexa compatible device. The deadbolt features a built-in alarm that comes in three different modes that will alert you when someone is coming or going and communicate any potential security threats.
The Logitech Harmony Elite Remote is the ultimate universal remote that not only controls your TV but can also control other smart home devices. The Harmony remote works with Alexa so you can use your voice to control your TV and other connected devices. The remote features one-touch automation so you can touch one button to trigger everyday activities like turning on the lights and TV. The Harmony Elite also works with other smart home devices, offering single-touch control with smart lights, locks, thermostats and more. The universal remote lets you combine up to fifteen remotes and several apps into one easy-to-use remote so you can control all of your electronics and gadgets with one device.
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| The best T-Mobile phones for April 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 11:21 AM PDT
T-Mobile's best phones are the perfect complement to its plans. The carrier, often known as "The Un-carrier" for its frequent shifts away from the way other mobile carriers operate, has the best unlimited data plan of the big four, and it has many of the best smartphones to go along with it. If you want the best of the best, T-Mobile has the top of the line smartphones from Samsung and Apple on offer. If you're looking for more value- or budget-friendly options, the company has phones to fit. You can also dig back into older phones to get a good deal. Since we've reviewed many of the best phones and plenty of the budget options as well, we know which of T-Mobile's phones are worth their price. We've gone through the phones the carrier has on sale, considered the deals it's currently offering, and picked out the best phones in a variety of categories to help you find the right one for you. Go straight there: T-Mobile phones options at T-Mobile.com
The best T-Mobile phones: ExplainedIn order to rank T-Mobile's best phones, we've sifted through all that the carrier offers, comparing price tags and the value offered by each phone. As with all of our reviews, we disregarded any potential personal preferences/biases for specific operating systems like Android Pie and iOS 12. Also note that these phones can generally be purchased on an installment plan through T-Mobile, allowing you to spread out the cost over 24 or even 36 months. We'll include details on what the total amount is as well, so you know what you're really paying.
How to choose the best T-Mobile phones for youT-Mobile has phones ranging from a few dollars a month to over $30 a month, and depending on your credit and how you want to buy a phone, you could spend as much as $1,000 at once. With good credit, you can spread the full price of most phones out over multiple years, making the monthly bill more manageable. These installment plans require a T-Mobile plan though, so if you don't intend to stay with T-Mobile for 24 to 36 months, make sure your budget is ready to pay for the full price of the phone you choose. We've included phones at all price points to help you find one that will work. Let's dive in.
The best T-Mobile phones for every budget:
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Get the best T-Mobile planGetting the best smartphone is only half the battle. Once you've figured out which of T-Mobile's smartphones is the best choice for you, head on over to our guide to find the best T-Mobile plan. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Planet Hollywood owner hit by major data breach Posted: 01 Apr 2019 11:04 AM PDT Earl Enterprises, the owner of the US restaurant chain Buca Di Beppo, several Earl of Sandwich franchises and Planet Hollywood's Las Vegas, New York City and Orlando locations, has confirmed that cybercriminals used point-of-sale (POS) malware to obtain credit card data between May 2018 and March 2019. The breach was first discovered by KrebsOnSecurity which found that a batch of around 2.15m stolen cards were made available for sale on the online shop Joker's Stash. Joker's Stash regularly sells huge batches of new stolen credit and debit cards to cybercriminals online.
While the names of the companies breached are omitted, since the shop indexes their lists of stolen cards by the city or postcode of the store from which the card was stolen, KrebsOnSecurity was able to determine that Bucca di Beppo's data was stolen based on its store locations. Stolen cardsEarl Enterprises has now officially confirmed that a number of its restaurants were targeted by hackers and it explained the extent of the breach in a statement, saying: “The malicious software was designed to capture payment card data, which could have included credit and debit card numbers, expiration dates and, in some cases, cardholder names. Although the dates of potentially affected transactions vary by location, guests that used their payment cards at potentially affected locations between May 23, 2018 and March 18, 2019 may have been affected by this incident.” Fortunately, cards used in online orders were not affected by the breach but if you did happen to visit Buca di Beppo, Earl of Sandwich, Planet Hollywood, Chicken Guy!, Mixology or Tequila Taqueria in the last ten months, it is worth checking your bank statements for any suspicious transactions. Via Engadget
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| Alexa Games: the best games you can play on your smart speaker Posted: 01 Apr 2019 10:58 AM PDT If you had asked us five years ago what we thought the future of gaming would be like, we probably would’ve told you about VR/AR (still in its infancy back then) and the inevitable shift to 4K. But the idea of using a smart speaker (which, at that point had only just come out) as a way to play games, well, that thought would’ve never crossed our minds. And yet here we are. While we never saw it coming, there are now tens of thousands of people using the Amazon Echo and Alexa to play games. Some of these experiences (or 'Skills' as Amazon calls them) rank among the top apps on the Alexa Skill Store and have even garnered attention from traditional game developers like Bethesda and Bungie. The only problem with Amazon's brave new world of audio gaming, however, is that, just like the App Store or Google Play Store, there's a lot to sift through. To help contextualize the rise of voice gaming and give us their top Alexa game recommendations we spoke with Paul Cutsinger, Head of Voice Design Education at Amazon. What follows are his thoughts on where voice gaming has come from, where it is now and where it will go later. An oral history of audio gamesWhile games have always relied on audio to make them more immersive, very few games over the years have completely relied on audio as their sole way to interact with the player. But according to Cutsinger, that limitation on the Amazon Echo actually works to its advantage. “Voice games bring a few unique characteristics so the kinds of games that tap into those stand out to me," Cutsinger told us over email. Those characteristics, namely, are imagination and communal play - or more explicitly the idea that audio games require you to think a bit more than traditional games do, and they can often be played with a larger group than most other games. When you look at the field of what’s out there right now, you can really break Alexa games into three buckets: Companion experiences (i.e. skills complement/influence other games), Standalone voice-first games and Integrated experiences like the Alexa-powered board game When in Rome. (Examples of each are below.) While those three categories (or buckets as Cutsinger calls them) may sound a bit small, as smart speakers continue to evolve and add in new features, Cutsinger expects more categories to pop up: “The combination of voice first functionality and a glanceable screen is a new interface and we’re excited with the momentum we’ve seen so far. There could and will definitely be some interesting use cases for Alexa-enabled devices with screens, especially with developer features like the Alexa Presentation Language (APL), which is the first language designed from the ground up for creating voice-first, visual experiences.” To that end you can expect the future of voice games to add in an ounce of visuals while still working primarily with voice as an interface. So what should you be playing on your Alexa device? Here's what Cutsinger recommends. Best Alexa Games: Cutsinger's recommendations
Image Credit: Bungie/Activision Companion experience (these skills complement/influence other games) § Destiny 2 Ghost by Bungie/Activision – The Ghost Skill brings your in-game Ghost companion to life, giving you an exciting new way to play and interact with the Destiny 2 game on PS4, Xbox One or PC. § Call of Duty by Activision – Your personal Call of Duty coach; with a simple voice command, Call of Duty provides you with critical intel, personalized instruction and essential after-action reports in real-time so you can take your game to the next level — whether you're a battle-hardened vet or rookie. § Elite Dangerous Hackster.io Winner – 16-year-old developer implemented Alexa into his space ship in Elite Dangerous, an exploration, trading, and combat game, in which you can explore the Milky Way Galaxy on a galactic scale.
Image Credit: HBO Standalone voice-first games (these range from new games built by indie developers to games that are a continuation of an existing franchise/property. Think interactive stories) § Earplay by Earplay – Interactive audio stories you play with your voice, featuring voice acting and sound effects like in a radio drama. Team is made up of gaming industry vets (Telltale, LucasArts, etc.). § The Magic Door by The Magic Door – The Magic Door is an Alexa-powered interactive adventure game with original stories. You can tell Alexa what choices to make as you explore a magical land with various regions, including a forest, sea, garden and castle. You will collect hidden items, solve riddles, and help magical creatures. § Westworld: The Maze by HBO – Become a host and move through Westworld on 60 possible paths to consciousness, built from show sound effects, storylines and over 2 hours of unique gameplay. § Yes Sire by Volley – You sit as a medieval lord of the realm, presented with an ever-expanding array of difficulty choices. Make good choices and stay in power as long as you can! Volley offers in-skill purchases by selling expansion packs to provide additional scenarios and questions in the adventure story. § Skyrim Very Special Edition by Bethesda – For the very first time ever, take your rightful place as the Dragonborn of legend (again) and explore Skyrim using the power of your own voice...your Thu’um! § Division Network by Ubisoft – The city of Washington DC—and the country itself—are on the brink of total collapse. How did we get here? What happened after the outbreak in New York? Who are the insurgents trying to tear DC apart? And how can you help bring justice and stability back to the country? Tap into the SHD network on your Alexa-enabled device to hear from the agent on the ground in DC, get hints and tips about what has happened since the pandemic broke out, and receive activation instructions from ISAC. § Jeopardy! by Sony – Test your trivia knowledge with new clues every weekday, written by the show’s official writers.
Image Credit: Sensible Object Ltd. Integrated experience (board games that integrates with Alexa) § When in Rome by Sensible Object – The travel trivia game powered by Alexa where real people ask the questions! Players set up the board, connect to the ‘When in Rome’ Alexa skill, divide into two teams and get ready to travel the world from the comfort of their home. § St. Noire by X2 – There’s been a murder in the small town of St. Noire – and the killer has promised to strike again! Can you and up to 6 other players solve the mystery before time runs out and the killer gets away? Find the clues, interrogate witnesses and trust absolutely no one. Someone is lying, and if you’re going to crack the case, you’ll need to figure out who…your move, Detective.
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| The best Verizon phones available in April 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 10:25 AM PDT
The best Verizon phones just got easier to find, as we're here to help you know which smartphones are premium picks worth your money or excellent value devices that won't let you down. We've tested the best smartphones and the best cheap smartphones, and we've compared our finding to what Verizon has on offer. We've also taken into consideration the deals Verizon offers on its phones. So, whether you're looking to switch to Verizon and take advantage of any new customer discounts and trade-in deals or you're an existing customers looking for an upgrade, we'll help you know which phones are worth your while. We'll go over what each phone has to offer, and what discounts Verizon offers on them to sweeten the deal. This way, you can be sure you're money is well spent, and you're not missing out on a way to save a little bit more.
Verizon phones: Your options explainedHow TechRadar has found the best Verizon phone for you From premium to budget, and Android to iOS, we've looked at the phones Verizon has to offer and determined which are the best options in a number of categories. These choices are based on the value of the phones compared with the price Verizon is charging. Whatever your needs, you should be able to find something that fits in this list.
Understanding your purchasing optionsThe phones listed here are all available on an installment plan from Verizon that allows you to pay for the device over a set 24-month term. We'll include the installment price so you can clearly understand what your bill for the phones will look like. If you're also looking for a new Verizon plan, check out our rundown of the best plans the carrier has to offer.
The best Verizon phones for every budget:
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Picking your planOnce you've found the phone you want, make sure you find the best Verizon plan. You'll want to see all the plan options Verizon has available to you can rest easy knowing you're getting the most for your money, If you want more phone recommendations check our list of the best smartphones we've tested. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best business plan software of 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 09:59 AM PDT Thomas Edison said that genius was “1% inspiration and 99% perspiration,” and anyone who has gone through the process of turning their epiphany of a great idea into the reality of a viable business, can attest to that, as there are tons of pitfalls along the way. Unfortunately, a good business plan can involve a ton of perspiration, due to the detailed planning that can easily overwhelm anyone; even more so a neophyte. Business plans are essential to secure funding for fledgling businesses, including even getting a firm off the ground, or expanding an existing one. Any loan officer will ask to see a business plan before making a loan, and it can easily show how serious the applicant is about their business. Solid business planning software can definitely assist with the creation of a business plan, providing hand-holding along the way to structure the process. Let’s look at some great choices for business planning software to get your business going, without you having to break too much of a sweat.
Image Credit: Bizplan Bizplan is the online business planning tool that claims usage of 30,000 startup founders from the Startups.co platform. They use a guided creator that can break the big project down into the component pieces that get tracked with a Progress Tracker, and expert guidance each step of the way including templates that can be dropped in, and completed, along with simple integration of visuals along the way. Additional resources are also provided via the Bizplan Academy, with lessons on relevant topics, for example, “Building a Brand: How to Tell a Powerful Brand Story,” and “Critical Path Your Way to Higher Revenues,” among the many offerings. Those that need even more assistance also can take advantage of an expert consultation from a financial expert that starts at $999. Plans start at the aptly named “Starter” tier which has a brief seven day trial period, and then is $19 monthly, but only supports a single company and user. The next tier up is the “Business” tier, which supports up to 5 companies, and unlimited team members for $29 per month.
Image Credit: PlanGuru PlanGuru is a comprehensive, and powerful software package in the business planning space. Education is provided via a series of case studies at their ‘PlanGuru University,’ and a whole slew of video tutorials. The feature set includes flexible budgeting that can handle a simple small business, or a larger multi-department operating budget, and financial forecasting that uses multiple methods, including intelligent and turn-key methods - twenty methods in total. Historical results can also be imported with the general ledger import utility which can then applied to produce a rolling forecast. They also offer PlanGuru Launch, a service to bring in expertise that starts at $250 per hour of assistance. A significant downside is the cost, with the least expensive plan costing $99 per month, which only includes a single user, and additional users cost $29 each per month. While there is no free trial, PlanGuru does offer a 30 day money back guarantee.
Image Credit: Enloop Enloop is a great choice for business planning software for the cash strapped business as it is the rare offering that has a free tier. Step up up to the next tier, and this is no barebones product, as it has over 100 currency symbols, can automatically generate bank-ready financial reports, and even has automated text writing that can sync with financial data to turn it into text. There is also a real time performance score assigned, that dynamically changes as the business plan is strengthened. The plans start with the Free tier, which is limited to a single business plan with simple text, no images, and does not offer any advanced features. The next plan up is the Detailed plan, that for $19.95 monthly supports two business plans, and offers a significant 55% discount when paid annually, making it even better value.
Image Credit: LivePlan LivePlan is business planning software that offers a simple pricing scheme as there is only a single plan to choose from. As they have a 15 year track record, they offer a clean and simple interface, that can create business plans that look like they were done by an expert consultant, and the software includes a live dashboard that can track day-to-day performance. Those with writer’s block will benefit from the over 500 included sample plans that can be turned to for inspiration. Rather than complicate things with too many tiers to choose from, LivePlan only has a single offering for $11.66 per month if paid annually, or $19.95 per month on a rolling basis.
Image Credit: Business Sorter Business Sorter promises to simplify and speed up business planning,and claims to be able to flesh out a plan in an hour or two, via a novel 273 card sort system that covers many common situations. The ability to reword cards is included, or also to add cards to the already expansive deck, so no worries if there is not a pre-made card for your situation. Unlike some sites that have videos, the educational resources here are provided as PDFs and Word files, which can be quicker to access, but harder to follow for some learners. The lowest tier plan, Basic, starts at $10 monthly, with an annual discount of $80 on an annual basis, is fully featured, and includes up to three team leaders.
Image Credit: Pixabay Other business plan software to considerWe've only covered some of the most popular business plan software platforms out there, but there are a number of other notables worth mentioning, plus a wide variety of providers of business plan templates. Below we'll briefly cover a range of some of the additional options out there that are worth considering to get your business plan right. Go Business Plans is more of a consultancy than a software solution, but is worth mentioning for the simple fact that it's one of America's biggest business plan companies. While software might be able to do the job for you, if you're looking for significant funding, it's probably useful to get some professional advice, not least in terms of strategic planning, feasibility studies, and financial projections to ensure you have a solid base for your business plan. Wise Business Plans provides a very wide range of templates to work from in constructing a business plan. These are particularly designed with funding in mind, no matter what kind of business you run. What is especially helpful is that Wise doesn’t simply deal with business plan templates for a diverse range of business types, the company also provides plan templates for franchises and non-profits. Plan Writers is another bespoke service that essentially listens to what you want and then puts the plan together for you. Again, this technically falls outside of business plan "software", but the chances are you'll use a software package as a platform to build from, and Plan Writers can then help you build up from that base. Business Plan Pro really is a business plan software platform, and one of the biggest selling ones over the past decade. What works particularly well here is that there are a huge number of plans and templates to start from, with additional support for planning financials and consultancy services on top, if required. The company also provides customers with access to a number of books and survey data sets, which offers additional value to the product. Bplans is another provider of business plan templates, but goes beyond that with additional pitch and SWOT analysis templates. There are also business plan guides, industry reports, and a free course on writing a business plan. Bplans also publishes a lot of free-to-use articles on business planning, financials, and tax reporting, to help ensure you can keep your figures and projections accurate and compliant. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The best AT&T phones available in April 2019 Posted: 01 Apr 2019 09:52 AM PDT
The best AT&T phones available right now include the hottest new smartphones from Samsung, Apple's premium iPhones, and some nice value picks. Whether you want the best of the best or can settle for something more affordable that will meet your most basic needs, there's a phone here for you. We've had the opportunity to review many of the best smartphones, and know which are champs, which are flops, and which offer a killer value. We've compared what we know about the best phones to which phones AT&T is offering, and we've considered some of the deals AT&T has to make its phones a better value. With all of that information in mind, we've ranked the best AT&T phones in a variety of categories so you can find the one that's right for you. And once you find your phone, we can help you figure out what the best AT&T plan is as well.
AT&T phones: Your options explainedTechRadar's guide to finding the best AT&T phone for you We've reviewed the contenders for best AT&T phone, and compared the value to the price. Ignoring any personal preferences and/or biases towards specific operating systems, be it Android, iOS or Windows, we've picked AT&T's best phones in a number of categories. All of these phones are available through an AT&T installment plan, which spreads the cost of the phone over a set amount of time. For this article, we'll be looking at the AT&T plans that spread the cost of the phone over 30 months, with an option for upgrade after 80-percent of the device's sales price is paid off.
How to choose the best AT&T phones for you:From $6 a month to $30 or more a month, AT&T's best phones come in at all prices. And you always have the option to pay the full price of the device up front. How much you want to pay for a new phone is up to you, but the best phones don't come cheap. Here we've done the tough work of going through what AT&T has to offer and picking out the best AT&T phones. Let's find the perfect phone for you.
The best AT&T phone options for every budget:
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Now find the best AT&T planOnce you've picked out the best AT&T phone, you're going to want to pair it with the best AT&T plan. We've looked at all AT&T has to offer and have all the details on AT&T plans here.
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| The best smartphone of 2019: 15 top mobile phones tested and ranked Posted: 01 Apr 2019 09:51 AM PDT We're well into 2019 now, and we've seen a huge number of smartphone launches, which means our best smartphone list has seen plenty of new entrants over recent weeks. And now we have two more new entries who have bagged a coveted top spot in our best phone rundown - keep an eye out for the Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10e. Update: The Samsung Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10e have both earned a place in our best phone round-up. There are plenty more top-flight smartphones claiming to offer the best experience on their way too, with the likes of the Nokia 9 Pureview, Huawei P30 Pro, Huawei P30 Galaxy Fold, LG G8 ThinQ, LG V50 ThinQ and Huawei Mate X having all been announced recently. However, if your smartphone replacement simply can't wait you'll be asking, what are the 15 best smartphones available right now? Read on to find out. We know that it's not all about the high-cost, super spec phones all the time so we've made you a handy list of all the top smartphones that you can get on the market right now, assessing what really matters to you, the buyer. We test these phones rigorously, making sure that we check every angle and feature - but most importantly, considering whether they've got a decent battery, great screen, strong design and a cracking camera. On top of that, they can't be too exorbitant in price either - not everyone wants or can afford a supercar of a handset, so we've made sure there are plenty of options for you there. If you do want to focus on the cheaper side of things, then check out our list of the best budget phones of 2019 for some great ideas. Still here? Still thinking about which phone to go for? Don't worry... there are 15 excellent options to choose from. The Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus is still the best smartphone available right now. It's a big phone that's designed for big hands - and it takes the very best of what's on the smartphone market and puts it together in a compelling package that we've loved testing. Screen: The Super AMOLED 6.4-inch display has been measured as the very best around, with super colours, great dynamic range and, essentially, the very best viewing experience you can have on a mobile phone. Plus, there's a fingerprint scanner embedded in the display. Battery life: The battery life on the Galaxy S10 Plus is and improvement over the S9 Plus, thanks to the larger 4,100mAh battery inside. It'll easily reach bedtime with double digits still left in the tank. The S10 Plus also offers Samsung's new Wireless PowerShare, allowing you to wirelessly charge other devices on the rear of the handset. Camera: The trio of cameras on the Galaxy S10 Plus are among the best on the market, building on the excellent setup on the S9 series by offering more features, shooting modes and overall clarity. Mini verdict: The Galaxy S10 Plus is packed full of the best Samsung has to offer, and it comes together to give you the best smartphone experience around right now. Read more: Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus review
Image Credit: TechRadar It's close at the top, with Huawei snapping at Samsung's heels it's never been tougher for the South Korean firm, but its latest flagship duo just about sneak in a one-two positioning. The bigger S10 Plus is by far Samsung's best phone, but the standard S10 backs almost all the same top-end features into a more compact form factor and slightly lower price tag (but still steep). Screen: With a 6.1-inch display you're not exactly getting a small screen with the standard S10, but Samsung has reduced bezels even more over the S9, keeping the dimensions surprisingly compact. You also get a fingerprint scanner embedded in the display. Battery life: The battery in the S10 has grown versus the one in the S9, but with the increased screen size as well you're still looking at all-day battery life with a nightly charge. The S10 also has Samsung's new Wireless PowerShare, allowing you to wirelessly charge other devices on the rear of the handset. Camera: Like the S10 Plus, the trio of cameras on the Galaxy S10 are among the best on the market, building on the excellent setup on the S9 series by offering more features, shooting modes and overall clarity. Mini verdict: The Samsung Galaxy S10 gets proper under-the-hood upgrades. You’ll like all of these powerful features, while your friends will like the new Wireless PowerShare perk – it helps them out more than you. Read our in-depth Samsung Galaxy S10 review The Huawei Mate 20 Pro is the best phone from the Chinese firm to date, offering up a heady mix of design, power and performance with a few party pieces thrown in too. It builds on the excellent P20 and P20 Pro, offering up even more screen, enhanced triple rear cameras and an in-display fingerprint scanner. Screen: The Mate 20 Pro packs a huge 6.39-inch display giving you a huge amount of space for gaming and movies, and its QHD resolution and HDR10 support ensures everything looks great. There is a wide notch at the top of the display though. Battery life: You'll get great battery life from the Mate 20 Pro, and we regularly achieved a day and a half of usage from a single charge during our review time with the handset. Camera: The Mate 20 Pro comes with three cameras on the rear, nabbing the excellent 40MP wide-angle and 8MP telephoto lenses from the P20 Pro - but the third sensor is new. It's an ultra-wide 16MP snapper allowing you to cram even more of your surroundings into each shot. Mini verdict: The Mate 20 Pro is a full-featured phone for a full-featured price - it even has a few tricks you won’t see elsewhere, and more powerful specs than most of its competitors. Read more: Huawei Mate 20 Pro review The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is one of the best phones we've ever tested - and also one of the most expensive. However, for that money you're getting an extraordinary spec list, including the first mainstream phone to offer 1TB of storage and an incredible screen. Screen: Let's get right to that screen: it's beautiful. Yes, it's a bit narrow if you're coming from the Note 5 or similar, but the way it wraps around the frame, the smaller bezels and the impressive color reproduction and brightness make it a real favourite. Battery life: With 4,000mAh under the hood, the Note 9 has one of the biggest batteries Samsung has ever thrust into a device, meaning it can easily last through the day (plus it has new cooling tech to help it last longer in gaming sessions, although we've not seen much proof of that). You can also charge over wireless easily, and fast charging boots in 17% battery in 15 mins. Camera: The cameras on Samsung phones are part of the reason they rank so highly in our list - the sheer capability and low light performance is impressive. Photos are definitely more on the colourful side, but there are more AI smarts in the mix to help you get the right shot at the right time. Mini verdict: It's hard to wrap the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 into a mini verdict - it does so much and we've not even touched on the new, camera-remote-enabled Bluetooth S Pen. The expansive, quality screen, the battery life and the camera all combine to make this a stunning smartphone... if you can afford it. Read our in-depth Samsung Galaxy Note 9 review
Image Credit: TechRadar There's a new hero for iPhone fans, with the iPhone XS offering the best mix of features and price from Apple. The larger screen and battery of the iPhone XS Max may attract some, but the standard XS provides better bang for your buck if the huge display isn't a must for you. Screen: The 5.8-inch display looks fantastic, with excellent colors and Apple's True Tone technology ensuring it automatically adjusts for the best visuals depending on your current environment. Battery life: The easiest way to describe battery life on the XS is: just a touch below average, but far better than any other (non-Plus / Max) iPhone we've tested. Which, in short, means you should get a day from a single charge. Camera: The shots we created with the iPhone XS were incredibly detailed and packed with color and sharpness, leaping off the screen with the vibrancy. It may not be the very best camera phone on the market, but these are the best snappers you'll find on an iPhone. Mini verdict: The iPhone XS is easily the best iPhone Apple’s ever made - it’s got the fastest processor, top screen and least bezel out there. It's not a huge advancement over the iPhone X (if you have this, there's no need to upgrade), but the upgrades Apple has delivered are welcome. Read our in-depth iPhone XS review The Huawei P20 Pro is one of the best phones the brand has ever produced, and it's still troubling the top of our charts. Even if you've never heard of this brand before, the P20 Pro is a phone that deserves its place among the very best brands out there. Screen: The 6.1-inch display is only Full HD, but that does help with battery life. This is actually probably one of the weakest parts of the phone, as it lacks the colour reproduction of its rivals, but it does come with a screen protector pre-fitted, which is a nice touch. Battery life: The Huawei P20 Pro will get you a day and half of light to moderate use - it goes down after a full month's effort, filling it with apps, but even still we're getting a good day's hard use, which is great. Camera: The camera is the standout feature on the Huawei P20 Pro, offering three lenses... and they're actually useful. The resolution is pin sharp thanks to brilliant image stabilisation, the software photo optimisation is excellent and having that 40MP sensor has been boosted well by Leica for good low light performance. Mini verdict: The main issue you have to overcome with the P20 Pro is the fact you might not be familiar with the brand, but not only is Huawei a worthy competitor to Apple and Samsung, but it's the most likely to get the bigger price drops first (which is worth checking out using our price finder below). Read our in-depth Huawei P20 Pro review
Image Credit: TechRadar If you're looking for a the best camera phone on the market, look no further. The single rear snapper on the Google Pixel 3 XL (and the smaller Pixel 3) is the best we've come across. You also get a big screen, decent battery life and plenty of power under the hood, making the Google Pixel 3 XL a great all-round flagship smartphone. Screen: It's hard to ignore the 6.3-inch display which dominates the front the of the Google Pixel 3 XL, but it still offers a chin bezel providing space for one of the two stereo front facing speakers. The QHD resolution and HDR support ensure everything looks great, but the notch is a little ugly. Battery life: The battery life on the Google Pixel 3 XL exceeds many of its rivals, comfortably lasting a day on a single charge, and sometimes getting halfway through the next too, depending on your usage. Camera: You may only be getting a single camera on the rear of the Pixel 3 XL, but do not under-estimate it. The camera here is capable of producing some simply staggering results, making shooting great photos easy and fun. Mini verdict: The Google Pixel 3 XL marries the best camera phone we’ve ever tested with a sizable OLED screen. It’s the right fit for people who don’t mind the notch cut out at the top and have already adjusted their grip for bigger smartphones in the past. Read our in-depth Google Pixel 3 XL review
Image Credit: TechRadar Like the look of the new S10 and S10 Plus, but not a fan of their lofty price tags? Well fear not, as Samsung has catered for you with the Galaxy S10e. The Galaxy S10e has many of the flagship features of its pricier siblings, while offering a more palm-friendly size and a few compromises to help keep the cost down. Screen: You don't get a QHD resolution here, instead you'll have to accept a Full HD+ 5.8-inch screen - but the Super AMOLED display provides plenty of colour and pop. Battery life: We found battery life lasted a day on a single charge - which is what we've come to expect from phones - plus its wireless charging and Wireless PowerShare making topping it up, and you other devices, even easier. Camera: The dual camera setup on the S10e isn't quite as good as the triple cameras on the S10 and S10 Plus, but they're still highly capable snappers producing quality photos with ease. Mini verdict: It’s hard not to recommend the S10e to anyone who prefers a smaller phone. Size queens, look elsewhere - this smartphone is for folks who want to text and browse apps one-handed without compromising performance. Read our in-depth Samsung Galaxy S10e review
Image Credit: TechRadar Pronounced ten S (like tennis) Max, the iPhone XS Max is part upgrade over Apple's game-changing iPhone X and part upgrade over the larger iPhone 8 Plus. It builds on the all-screen, notch-laden, almost bezel-free design with more power under the hood, improved cameras, a new storage option and a huge screen and even huger price tag. Screen: The 6.5-inch OLED screen on the iPhone XS Max really grabbed our attention - it's fantastic for video streaming and gaming. Battery life: It's has improved a little on both handsets over the iPhone X, but you'll still find yourself plugging both of these phones in each night to ensure you'll get through a whole day in the morning. Camera: The dual camera setup on the iPhone XS Max is fantastic. The Smart HDR mode makes images even clearer, brighter and more detailed, and Apple's famously intuitive interface makes snapping great shots a breeze. Mini verdict: If your hands are as big as your bank balance, the iPhone XS Max takes Apple's smartphone to a whole new level with plenty of additional screen space. Read our in-depth iPhone XS Max review The price of flagship phones are rising every year, but you don't need to pay top dollar for a top-notch experience. OnePlus offers flagship phones at a lower price point and while its first few handsets didn't trouble the established names, its more recent efforts have really pushed the likes of Samsung, Apple and co. The OnePlus 6T is the firm's best flagship offering yet, with a host of high-end features and a price tag which is comfortably lower than the competition. Screen: This may be a "cheap" flagship phone, but you still get a huge 6.41-inch AMOLED display providing colorful, bright and punchy images. It may 'only' have a fill HD resolution - and there's a notch at the top - but for the price it's difficult to knock. Battery life: OnePlus has increased the size of the battery in the 6T over the 6 it replaces, and that's resulted in improved battery life with the handset easily lasting a full day on a single charge. Camera: There's a dual camera setup on the rear of the OnePlus 6T, and while it doesn't reach the same heights as the Google Pixel 3, Huawei P20 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S9, when you consider the price it's still an accomplished offering. Mini verdict: The OnePlus 6T is a good-looking and powerful smartphone that can compete with handsets from the larger and more established brands on the market while undercutting them in price. Read more: OnePlus 6T review The Honor View 20 is the best phone to come out of the Chinese brand, with a striking rear design (which may divide opinion), plenty of power under the hood, an impressive 48MP camera and a 'punch-hole' display which ushers in the post-notch revolution. Screen: There's a huge 6.4-inch display on the View 20, giving you plenty of space to play with. It's the location of the front-facing, 25MP camera within the screen which is the real talking point though, as rather than appearing in a bezel or a notch which juts into the screen, it's surround by screen. It's different, but will it catch on? Battery life: The Honor View 20 has a big 4,000mAh and the result is a battery which will comfortably last through an entire day and into the next on a single charge. Camera: The View 20 is the world's first smartphone to boast a 48MP rear camera, as the firm has used Sony's new sensor to provide a camera which really packs a punch. Mini verdict: An ultra-high-resolution camera and punch hole screen are the highlights on the Honor View 20, and they set a standard this year’s more expensive phones will need to match. Read more: Honor View 20 review
Image Credit: TechRadar The Google Pixel 3 is the smaller sibling to the Pixel 3 XL, with a smaller screen and battery, but the same power and excellent camera under the hood. This is a great handset for those looking for a top-flight phone that can be used comfortably with one hand (although those with smaller palms may need both still). Screen: At 5.5 inches, the screen on the Google Pixel 3 isn't exactly small, but it's one of the smallest in this list of the best smartphones. The full HD resolution isn't quite as sharp as its larger sibling's QHD panel, but it still looks great. Camera: You get the same camera here as you do on the Pixel 3 XL, and that's great news as it's one of the best smartphone snappers we've ever tested. It's easy to use, extremely powerful and produces excellent shots. Battery life: The Google Pixel 3 battery life isn't as impressive as the larger Pixel 3 XL which has a bigger power pack. It should give you a day of use, but don't expect for than that. Mini verdict: If you're looking for a compact flagship smartphone with a class-leading camera experience the Google Pixel 3 is the best phone for the job. Read more: Google Pixel 3 review
Image Credit: TechRadar The iPhone XR (pronounced 'ten R') is a cheaper smartphone from Apple aimed at opening up its mobile range to more consumers, with a range of colors, premium design and still a decent slug of power under the hood. While it doesn't cost as much as the XS or XS Max, the iPhone XR isn't a cheap phone - it's just more affordable than the other two new iPhones. Screen: The iPhone XR may be the cheapest of Apple's three new iPhones, but it sits in the middle of the trio in terms of screen size with its 6.1-inch display. This provides lots of space for movies and games, although its resolution is under full HD. Camera: The camera on the iPhone XR doesn't hit the same heights as its XS siblings, and portrait mode is a little lacking, but it still offers up the same intuitive Apple interface and an auto mode than makes the best of most scenarios. Battery life: The shining light for the iPhone XR is its battery life. If you're looking for an iPhone with great endurance, this is it, with the XR easily lasting a full day on a single charge. Mini verdict: The iPhone XR is one of the best handsets Apple has ever made, and that's mainly down to the excellent battery life. Read more: iPhone XR review The LG G7 ThinQ is an impressive little phone from the brand (irritating name aside), bringing with it a strong package and a decent price in many regions. There's an attempt to right the wrongs of the LG G6 - and it's resulted in a good alternative to the traditional big hitters. Screen: LG's Super Bright screen might not be OLED - LCD is preferred here - but it's capable of delivering good peak brightness, can handle HDR10 and Dolby Vision playback and has a large, expansive look with a smaller notch. It's a little large to hold, but it's one of the most capable screens around. Battery life: At 3,000 mAh, the LG G7 ThinQ isn't the largest on the market... and it shows in the performance. It's not terrible, with some clever background processing keeping things going, but it'll only last you around a day when others are starting to eke into two. Camera: The smart camera here is great if you want to capture more of the picture, with a much wider field of view bringing in more information. The smart sensor tries to work out what's in front of you - with great results, but only when it gets things right. It's not the best camera out there, but you can take some stellar shots. Mini verdict: It's so tight at top of our best smartphone list that the small tweaks can make all the difference, and LG impresses thanks to offering up a tightly-made package for a pretty reasonable price - it's similar to many other top Android phones out there, but you'll certainly find some elements to enjoy here. Read more: LG G7 ThinQ review
Image Credit: TechRadar The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus may be over a year old now, but it remains in our 15 best phones round-up as it still offers a great range of features at a now more attractive price tag. It's a great option for those after a big-screen Samsung, but without the funds to nab one of the new S10 series. Screen: The Galaxy S9 Plus has a sizable 6.2-inch display with no notch or punch-hole disrupting its 18.5:9 aspect ratio. The Super AMOLED panel is bright and delivers a colorful punch which is great for movies and gaming. Camera: There are two rear cameras on the Galaxy S9 Plus, offering up an excellent shooting experience. It particularly excels in low-light thanks to Samsung's dual-aperture technology. Battery life: The battery on the S9 Plus is good, but it doesn't really advance things from its predecessor - the S8 Plus. It'll last you a day on a single charge, but you'll need to top up overnight. Mini verdict: If your budget is a little too tight to spring for the phones higher up on this list, and you still want a great screen and camera the Galaxy S9 Plus is still a top buy. Read our in-depth Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus review You're at the end of our best smartphone guide, but that doesn't mean we can't help you still - if you're stuck on which model is for you, we've got a tool that can compare all the phones together and you can decide which one suits you best based on the cost. If you want to get all the info, then use the tool below or check out our full mobile phone deals page. Enter price comparisonThis posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Airport security may soon let you leave your laptop in your bag Posted: 01 Apr 2019 09:35 AM PDT You may not have to take your laptop out of your luggage anymore when you're going through security at the airport. A new CT scanner is going to roll out to TSA security lines in the US this summer, reports Bloomberg Government. The days of needing specialized travel bags with fold-out laptop sections to get through security may be coming to a close. In a press call last week, TSA Administrator David Pekoske announced that the agency had signed a contract to get 300 CT scanning machines. The CT scanners can provide TSA agents with a three-dimensional view of luggage contents, and will detect some items automatically in the future. Airport security: gradually growing more tolerableSome of these scanners have already been in place at airports in the US as part of a pilot program. Those machines didn't result in security lines speeding up, but a more complete roll-out of the technology and increased familiarity with the scanners could eventually quicken the pace. Pekoske believes more staff may be required initially, though. If 300 machines doesn't sound like much when considering the number of airport security lines there are throughout all the terminals in all the airports in the country, that's because it's not a lot. The agency aims to replace more than 2,000 X-Ray machines with the CT scanners, and President Trump is already seeking an additional 300 machines in the 2020 budget. The airports that will get the initial roll-out of these machines haven't been confirmed, but the TSA aims to continue replacing X-Ray machines over the next eight years. Until then, you may not want to bury your laptop too deep in your luggage.
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