Know It All Nev

On Demand Reviews – 2021

Category: Android

Google might have by accident proven off the Pixel 6’s in-display fingerprint sensor

Nifty Nev
Android, Google Pixel, Google Pixel 6, Google Pixel 6 Pro, Mobile, News |

Google may have already shared a lot about the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, but there are still quite a few unanswered questions the company will address at its proper launch later in the year. However, an accidental post from Google’s Android chief Hiroshi Lockheimer may just have revealed the position of the phone’s in-display fingerprint sensor — and it marks a change from rear-mounted fingerprint sensors (and the short-lived face unlock of the Pixel 4).
In an image shared on Twitter, the senior vice president posted a screenshot of the lock screen of an Android 12 phone with an in-display fingerprint sensor in a bid to show off the Material You interface. Eagle-eyed users quickly noticed that the elements on display matched what the Pixel 6 would be expected to show. The folks over at 9to5Google note that this could be a coincidence. Phones like the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra andOnePlus 9 Pro can be used on Android 12 at the moment, and they have in-display fingerprint sensors, albeit with differing positioning. However, the fact that the image was deleted rather quickly does make it more likely to be a Pixel 6. Google did also accidentally reveal the Pixel 5a’s camera in a similar manner earlier in the year.

Hiroshi Lockheimer apparently posted (and then deleted) a screenshot from what's likely the Pixel 6 Pro (the image resolution was 1440×3200.) The phone is connected to Verizon 5G, likely the carrier's sub-6GHz network. Also shown is the position of the UDFPS.
H/T @jspring86az pic.twitter.com/Pessh7RvNV
— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) August 24, 2021
The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are Google’s 2021 flagship devices, and the first true flagships since the Pixel 4 and 4 XL. Google is going all out with the hardware, no longer content to rely on its software to carry its products. With screens going as high as 6.7-inches, QHD displays, 120Hz refresh rates, large batteries, and 33-watt fast charging, these are competitive smartphones. The company has also done a lot of work with its Google Tensor chip, which it plans on using to help create a product that can reflect its hardware ambitions more than Qualcomm’s third-party chips will. It’s a drastic change from older products, and the in-display sensor is just one more way Google is setting these phones apart from older ones.
A launch date has yet to be given, however, Google will likely launch the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro at a dedicated hardware event in October if previous trends hold.

Editors’ Recommendations

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Nifty Nev
Android, Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, Mobile, Review, Samsung, Wearables |

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic review: A first-rate smartwatch
MSRP $349.99

“The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is a seriously capable smartwatch with comprehensive health-tracking features, slick One Watch UI software, and a mature, classy design that feels great on your wrist.”

Cohesive, mature design

Rotating bezel is intuitive

One Watch UI is neat and logical

Comprehensive health tracking

Choice of style and size

Battery doesn’t last two full days

Wear OS 3 software lacks polish

Too large to wear at night

Does the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic have what it takes to top our list of the best Android smartwatches? After all, its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 3, has done so since its release, meaning we have high expectations. Making the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic’s already hard job even tougher is that it also has to introduce us to a new operating system at the same time as wowing us with its hardware.
Just by looking at the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, it’s obvious Samsung has done its job on the design, but what about the new Wear OS 3 software? There’s a lot to go through here, but don’t worry, this is a feature-packed smartwatch worthy of both your attention and your money.
Design
At first glance, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic doesn’t look that different from the Galaxy Watch 3, but examine it more closely and there are subtle refinements that give the new model a more cohesive, mature, and watch-like style. The stainless steel case itself comes in either 42mm or 46mm sizes, and I am wearing the 46mm model on my 6.5-inch wrist. It weighs 52 grams without the strap.
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
The ridges on the bezel are smaller and more tightly packed than on the Galaxy Watch 3, the chronograph markings are more subtle, and the lugs flow more directly from the case itself. It’s this, along with the strap and the buttons, that marks the largest design change. The buttons are oblong, more flush to the case, and therefore are less noticeable, but still separated by a button guard for a clean look.
The strap changes the watch the most, due to the ends matching the curve of the case and flowing lines of the lugs. It works really well, making the strap appear to be an integral part of the watch case, plus the shape stops it from bending too far in either direction, helping it sit better on your wrist. Technically it’s a small design change, but an inspired one that really boosts the watch’s comfort and visual appeal. However, if you change the strap for a non-Samsung version, you’ll lose this benefit.
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
At 52 grams, the Watch 4 Classic is quite heavy, and you are almost always aware of it on your wrist. This stopped me wearing it overnight for sleep tracking — it was just too noticeable and I found it distracting while trying to fall asleep. The 42mm version isn’t much lighter at 47 grams, and both are significantly heavier than the 37-gram, aluminum-bodied 44mm Apple Watch Series 6.
Despite this, I haven’t found the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic fatiguing to wear during the day, and I really love the balanced, classy, and distinctive design.
Software
The hardware is excellent, but the big change with the Watch 4 is the software. Gone is Samsung’s Tizen from the Galaxy Watch 3, and in comes the joint Google and Samsung platform called Wear OS 3, or simply Wear. Tizen was always the better piece of software compared to old Wear OS, and it made the Galaxy Watch 3 our top Android smartwatch recommendation due to its ease of use, design, and reliability. The concern with the new software for me was, how much of Tizen remains, or has Wear overtaken it completely?
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
The good news is Tizen’s superior design and usability remains through Samsung’s One Watch UI. Wear OS 3 lets companies use a custom user interface, avoiding all new watches looking basically the same as each other. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic has a rotating bezel that helps greatly with navigation. You turn it to the left to view notifications and to the right to see Tiles. Swipe up on the touchscreen to find the app menu, and down for quick settings, then use the bezel to scroll left and right through all the options presented. It’s fluid, natural, fast, and surprisingly enjoyable. The rotating bezel has a very precise action with lovely dampening, and a neat “notchy” feel as it turns.
You should spend a few moments digging through the settings to personalize the way your watch works, as raise to wake isn’t activated by default, meaning you have to tap the screen or turn the bezel to wake the display. This is annoying when an app is running and the screen times out. An always-on screen can be switched on, so the watch always shows the time. There are a lot of watch faces to choose from, ranging from the very simple to the very cute, and all have custom ambient modes.
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
It all feels very similar to Tizen on the Galaxy Watch 3 at first, but Wear uses a clearer font that, when paired with the pin-sharp screen — a 1.4-inch 450 x 450 pixel Super AMOLED on the 46mm, or a 1.2-inch 396 x 396 pixel Super AMOLED on the 42mm — makes everything easy to read. I never need to squint at the screen, and the choice of font is more mature than Tizen’s. The most obvious change happens when you swipe up on the screen and find a list of apps that includes the Google Play Store.
Android apps for Wear OS work on the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, unlike on the Tizen-powered Galaxy Watch 3, and that includes Google apps missing from old Samsung watches like Google Maps, Google Fit, and Google Pay. Google Pay works normally and you can select either it or Samsung Pay as the default contactless payment system under the NFC setting. Google Fit works alongside Samsung Health, but it’s not immediately obvious how, or if, it can be set as the default.
There are times where Wear OS 3 shows it is still a work in progress, but a small software update arrived during my review that also showed Google and Samsung are working to fix any issues. Initially, Google Maps loaded as usual, but it was hit-or-miss whether you could scroll around the map on the screen, and routes only showed in text form. Both these problems were fixed after the update. However, some apps are still shaky, with Spotify often timing out, leaving me staring at a spinning progress indicator.

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Many apps are available through Google Play, including common examples like Spotify and Outlook, but not YouTube Music or Uber. It doesn’t appear Google Assistant is available either as an app to install or as an onboard alternative to Bixby. Notifications are pretty and interactive when they do turn up, but there’s no guarantee of arrival, a problem from the old Wear OS that has sadly carried over into new Wear. However, notifications are grouped together in Tiles, are properly formatted, easy to read, and when you dismiss one on the watch, it disappears on your phone.
On a day-to-day basis, so far, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic with Wear OS 3 has been excellent, although it is an unusual mashup of Wear OS and Tizen. You get the good looks and the sensible navigation provided by One Watch UI and the rotating bezel, plus the frustration of unreliable notifications and apps that don’t quite work properly all the time from Wear OS, along with plenty of duplicate services. Because Wear will look different on other smartwatches running the software (when they arrive), much of what makes it work well here may come down to Samsung’s One Watch UI, but we won’t know for sure until a challenger arrives in the future.
Health tracking
The health and fitness tracking on the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is comprehensive, detailed, easy to use, and packed with features. The Samsung BioActive sensor is the standout new hardware addition to the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. The 3-in-1 sensor incorporates a Bio-Electrical Impedance (BIA) sensor, an Electrocardiogram (ECG), and a PPG heart rate sensor, all powered by new software algorithms.
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
The BIA enables a body composition measurement showing weight, muscle, fat mass, body fat, Body Mass Index (BMI), body water, and Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) stats. Data like this has previously only been found on some smart scales, and is helpful in understanding weight loss better, as well as seeing the effect continued training has on your body. It takes 15 seconds to perform and all it needs is your weight and height, but is not suitable for those with pacemakers due to it using a small electrical current to take a measurement.
It’s typical of many high-tech health features on a wearable in that it provides lots of stats, but no real information on what they mean and what you can do to change them. The data itself has a lot of variability and results depend on the time of day, when you last ate, and a whole lot more. It’s hard to establish accuracy this way. It’s likely only helpful if you can compare the results with another device with a body composition measurement, and even then, you will need to do your own research in order to know what to do with the data.
Taking a Body Composition reading on the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
To use the ECG, a separate app has to be installed on your phone, which takes 30 seconds to complete, and it only advises on atrial fibrillation. The app shows an option to measure blood pressure, but this feature is not active on the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic in the U.K.. On the watch, you also get a stress measurement, SpO2 blood oxygen monitor, heart rate, and a women’s health tracker, plus Tiles to manually input daily water and food intake.
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is a very strong fitness companion, with all the sensors you need.

Workouts are started quickly with Samsung Health through a Tile, plus you can add Google Fit Tiles to the watch, along with a handy overview of your main stats. I tracked various workouts including those with GPS. The measurements were in line with those I got from an Apple Watch Series 6 linked to an iPhone 12 Pro. The workout mode’s autopause feature is notable for its zealousness, and always paused even when I just stopped to take a photo, then resumed when I restarted.

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Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

The Samsung Health app presents its data neatly, and there’s enough information for the casual fitness fan, including all the data gathered from the body composition tests, plus heart rate, stress, sleep tracking, step count, and historical exercise tracking data. I didn’t feel the need to swap from Samsung Health to Google Fit, indicating it provides a similar level of information and usefulness. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is a very strong fitness companion, with all the sensors you need (plus some you probably won’t need very often), accurate data collection, and a well-presented app.
Performance, battery life, and charging
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic uses the new dual-core, 1.18GHz Samsung Exynos W920 processor with 1.5GB RAM. It has not disappointed, with more than enough energy to keep the operating system moving along swiftly. Wi-Fi range is quite short though, and the watch doesn’t always maintain the connection or automatically activate it, such as when you open Google Play. I’ve had to manually connect to Wi-Fi to kickstart some apps, but this may change with another software update. Using Bluetooth headphones is easy and, provided they are already paired with your phone, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic doesn’t require them to be paired for a second time.
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
The 46mm Galaxy Watch 4 Classic has a 361mAh battery inside and, so far, after a week of using the watch, it lasts for two working days with a single workout tracked and the always-on screen active, provided you turn it off overnight. It doesn’t have the guts to last two full days when showing the always-on time, and certainly not if you also use sleep tracking and track a workout.
There is a power-saving mode that activates when the watch reaches about 10% battery remaining. It adds another couple of hours of use by turning off nonessential features like the always-on screen. Charging is performed using a supplied magnetic charging disc, and it takes about 80 minutes to go from 10% to full. The display helpfully shows an estimation of how long a full charge will take.
Price and availability
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic starts at $349, in black or silver, and will be released on August 27. The 42mm model is the cheapest, while the 46mm is $379. Add 4G LTE and the price climbs to $399 for the 42mm or $429 for the 46mm version. Buy through Samsung’s online store and you can customize the watch with different straps.
Our take
The Galaxy Watch 3 is a tough act to follow, and any new operating system is always going to be hard to implement perfectly the first time, but Samsung has successfully navigated around any issues and delivered a superb follow-up to what was the best smartwatch for Android phones from the last year. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic expertly mixes a smart design with extensive health-tracking ability, and offers it in not only two different styles, but various sizes as well. It is absolutely worth your money.
Samsung’s use of One Watch UI is key to the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic’s usability, as the interface is slick, logical, and fast. It’s fun to use due to the rotating bezel, and the smartwatch’s comfort and toughness mean you can wear it all day long without a problem. I did find it too large to wear overnight, and would like the battery to provide two full days of use, but these are not issues exclusive to the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic.
Wear OS 3 shows plenty of promise, but it’s disappointing to still see the old problems of not all notifications arriving and not all apps being available or always working properly on the watch. It’s better than before due to One Watch UI, but still not as reliable or as app-packed as Apple’s WatchOS. However, due to its newness, it shouldn’t be judged too harshly just yet. Where does this leave the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic? Samsung has definitely made a superb successor to the Watch 3.
Is there a better alternative?
If you own an iPhone, the Apple Watch Series 6 or Apple Watch SE are still the smartwatches to buy. They integrate perfectly with your phone, while others miss out on certain features, and WatchOS is fast and logically laid out. Apple Health is great, and the battery will last you a couple of days.
If you have an Android phone, the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic are the only two with the latest Wear OS 3 software, and that may end up being crucial for speedy updates over the next year. Mobvoi’s TicWatch Pro 3 and TicWatch E3 are scheduled to get Wear OS 3 this time next year, and although both are still good choices today, Samsung’s watches are a better bet as you get the new software without an extensive wait.
It’s Samsung that offers the Watch 4 Classic’s biggest challenger. The Galaxy Watch 4 has all the same features and performance as the Watch 4 Classic, with a different design and a touch-sensitive bezel. It’s cheaper as well, and your preference will likely come down to which design you like better.
How long will it last?
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic’s case is water-resistant to 5ATM and has an IP68 rating, plus it meets the MIL-STD-810G toughness standards. The strap on my review model is made of thick rubber, and feels very hard-wearing. The Wear OS 3 software is right up to date now, and will likely continue to be ahead of the competition for some time, due to no other smartwatches with the software being available yet. There’s a 4G LTE option for anyone wanting to add cellular connectivity using an eSIM. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic will last for two years at the minimum.
Should you buy it?
Yes. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic’s design and on-wrist comfort is top-notch, there are tons of health-tracking features, and performance is excellent. It’s a great smartwatch to buy.

Editors’ Recommendations

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Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Flip 3 may become gross sales hits

Nifty Nev
Android, Foldables, Mobile, News, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 |

Samsung has yet to release the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 to the public, but reports from Korea indicate that, based on pre-orders, they may be more of a hit than the company’s more mainstream models. Both foldables are said to be on the path to reaching 800,000 units, according to a report from the Korea Herald. Samsung also confirms that in just 10 days, the pre-orders have already surpassed total global Samsung foldable sales for all of 2021. It’s the strongest pre-order for Samsung foldables ever.
As of Sunday, August 22, both foldables are currently reported to have a combined 450, 000 pre-orders. Even accounting for the combination of numbers, this is a huge leap from the Galaxy Z Fold 2, which landed at 80,000 total. That pre-order number is reportedly twice that of the Galaxy S21 and 1.5 times more than the Galaxy Note 20. The current understanding is that they could reach 600, 000 total pre-orders, with the number rising to 800, 000 with the inclusion of unlocked models. If the trends continue with post-release sales, then the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Flip could effectively outperform the Galaxy Note line in total sales, which would prove Samsung’s decision to refocus on its foldables this year as a solid choice.
“With the demand for new smartphone models growing (in the local market), Samsung’s discounted foldable phone lineup will quickly take over the popularity of its Galaxy Note series,” one industry expert told the Korean Herald.
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold line could serve as a lifeline for the firm. While in no way struggling, the Samsung Galaxy S21 series sold poorly based on the company’s expectations, while Apple recorded a large boom in its equivalent iPhone 12 series. A combination of a novel form factor, the Samsung brand, and strong critical reception could see Samsung’s newest foldables break into the mainstream and replicate what the iPhone did so many years ago.
“We are thankful for the great customer response to our new Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3,” said a Samsung representative. “Interest in foldable smartphones is at an all-time high, with pre-order volume for Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 already outpacing total sales for Galaxy Z devices to date in 2021. We’re committed to providing the most innovative experiences to our consumers.”
If these sale trends continue, then the odds of Samsung restoring the Note line next year are slimmer than ever. The company has ported the biggest advantage of the Note — its S Pen — over to the Z Fold. With the Galaxy S21 Ultra now serving as Samsung’s mainstream “big-screen phone with a pen,” it’s not clear what niche the Galaxy Note would serve should it be revived.

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Find out how to use the Google House app in your PC

Nifty Nev
Android, Google Assistant, Google Home, proactive evergreen, Smart Home |

When it comes to running your smart home, Google makes it easy, thanks to the company’s suite of web-connected products and services. With Google Assistant as the brains of the smart operation, all of your Google-powered devices are housed under one roof for controls and customization — the Google Home app.
Available exclusively for iOS and Android devices, you won’t find a dedicated desktop app for running your Google smart home on your Mac or PC. That being said, there are a few workarounds you can implement, allowing you to add Google Home’s intuitive features to your computer of choice. Read on to learn how.
Use Google Home through your Chromebook
Mark Coppock/Digital Trends
While your run-of-the-mill desktop doesn’t feature onboard support for the Google Home app, those using a Chromebook can download and use the application as they would on a regular mobile device — and it’s all possible via the Google Play Store.
To get started, go into the Settings menu of your Chromebook. Click Apps, find the Google Play Store tab, then click Turn On. Now all you have to do is head into the Google Play Store on your Chromebook, download the Google Home app, and launch it.
Because the building blocks of Chrome OS and Android are pretty close in nature, you’ll be able to use the Google Home app to do everything you normally do on your mobile device — including device controls, routine building, and casting — but through your Chromebook.
Put Google Chrome to the test
Caio/Pexels
If you’re already using Google Chrome as the default web browser for your PC or Mac and are looking to add Google Home functionality to your desktop, you’ll be glad to know that you can use Google Chrome to unlock the casting and streaming features that are built into the Home application.
To do so, you’ll first want to ensure that your desktop is running the latest version of the Chrome browser. Next, with the Chrome browser launched, you can either click the More icon (three vertical dots) or right-click a blank section of your webpage. Then, click Cast, followed by your device of choice.
While you won’t be able to use Google Chrome for Google Assistant or any kind of device customization for the hardware on your network, the casting function will allow you to send audio and video from your desktop to certain Google Home devices on your network.
Try an Android emulator

Did you know that you can mimic your phone or tablet’s Android operating system to your desktop? With programs like Bluestacks, you can enjoy the look, feel, and functionality of your phone’s Android OS right from your home computer. While there are a handful of emulators to choose from, Bluestacks is known for its reliability, easy layout, and customization options.
To get started, download Bluestacks for your PC or Mac, then launch the program. During setup, you’ll be prompted to enter Google Play Store credentials for downloading apps. After entering this info, go into the Play Store, search for Google Home, and click Install.
When you launch the Google Home app, you’ll be prompted to enter your Google account info, at which point the rest of your installation will mirror that of Google Home on a mobile device. Once you’ve locked down your location preferences and a few other tweaks, you’re ready to use the app.
The nice thing about Bluestacks (minus the ads) is that Google Home will perform exactly the same way it does on the mobile gear the app is designed for.

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The simplest low cost Samsung Galaxy S20 reductions for August 2021

Nifty Nev
Android, Commerce 2020, Deals, Mobile, samsung galaxy s20 |

Are you looking for a new smartphone? After Samsung introduced the Galaxy S21, it’s been a great time to shop for cheap Samsung Galaxy S20 deals — and Galaxy smartphone deals are exactly what we’ve got. From the big-box online stores to mobile network service providers, we’ve combed the web to bring you all the best Galaxy S20 sales, bundles, and carrier offers available right now with discounts that can save you hundreds on a new Samsung Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20 Plus, Galaxy S20 Ultra, or Galaxy S20 FE.
If you love all things Samsung and want to see what else is on offer at the moment, then head on over to these Samsung Galaxy Note 20 deals once you’re done here.
Today’s best Galaxy S20 deals

Samsung Galaxy S20 5G, 128GB – Verizon (Renewed), Cosmic Gray
— $367, was $730

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G (Cricket Wireless)
— $400, was $450

Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G (Unlocked, Amazon Renewed)
— $565, was $1,200

Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G (Unlocked, Amazon Renewed)
— $628, was $1,100

Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G (Unlocked) with Qi-Certified Wireless Charger
— $1,040

Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G (Unlocked)
— $1,100, was $1,400

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G (Verizon)
— Free with new line, was $700

Samsung Galaxy S20
Andy Boxall/DigitalTrends.com
The Galaxy S20 represents the 11th iteration of Samsung’s flagship phone line. Samsung broke with previous naming conventions for this new release, with the S20 moniker referring to the year 2020 rather than the generation. It’s the smallest of the S20 flagships (although it’s not exactly tiny with its 6.2-inch touchscreen), and it boasts a gorgeous 120Hz display, an excellent camera module, and — perhaps most importantly — 5G network connectivity.
The standard Galaxy S20 was our least favorite of Samsung’s new flagships, but it’s still a solid phone (as you’d expect from the biggest name in the Android mobile space). It’s also the most affordable and smallest device in the S20 stable, so if size and/or price has ruled out the S20+ and S20 Ultra, then finding a good Samsung Galaxy S20 deal is the obvious path you should take — or consider the S20 FE if you want something even cheaper.
Samsung Galaxy S20+

Keeping with tradition, Samsung released a plus-sized version of its 2020 flagship in the 6.7-inch Galaxy S20+. It’s only a half-inch larger than the Galaxy S20, but the S20+ offers more than just extra screen real estate: Our review team found that the bigger device looked better, ran longer, and took better pictures than the standard S20, making it our favorite entry in the 11th-generation Samsung flagship stable when it comes to price versus performance.
In short: If you don’t mind the modern trend toward bigger phones, then the Galaxy S20+ is a clear upgrade over the standard Galaxy S20 in most respects. Better still, the up-sized Galaxy S20 isn’t that much more expensive than its smaller sibling, and since these devices often go on sale together, the ready availability of Galaxy S20+ deals makes our top pick even more attractive.
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
Riley Young / Digital Trends
Phone makers typically release two flagships annually — a standard device along with a larger model — and in recent years, brands like Apple and Google have also offered cheaper midrange phones as alternatives to their pricier flagships. Samsung bucked this trend in 2020 by releasing an even more premium flagship in the Galaxy S20 Ultra, which offers some enhancements over the S20 and S20 Plus (already high-end phones in their own right). Namely, the Galaxy S20 Ultra features a larger 6.9-inch display, the beefiest hardware you’re likely to find on a modern smartphone, a superb camera module, and industry-leading battery life.
Of the three flagships, our recommendation for most people looking for an upgrade over the standard Galaxy S20 is still to jump on any Galaxy S20+ deals they come across. That said, if you want the biggest and most bleeding-edge Samsung smartphone (and are willing to pay for it), the S20 Ultra’s extra juice is worth the squeeze — just be sure to take advantage of any Galaxy S20 Ultra deals you find, as these more expensive devices are often where you’ll score biggest savings.
Samsung Galaxy S20 FE

Flagship smartphone brands have been jumping on the “flagship alternative” bandwagon lately, releasing budget-friendly devices alongside their more premium handsets. Apple did it with the iPhone XR and new iPhone SE, and Samsung rolled out the affordable Galaxy S10 Lite and S10e in 2019. The 11th generation of Galaxy flagships now has its budget offering in the Galaxy S20 FE, or “Fan Edition,” which is an entry-level model in the Galaxy S series with a starting price of $700.
Samsung Galaxy devices have been creeping upwards in price in recent years, and high-end models like the Galaxy S20 Ultra are now more expensive than iPhones. Samsung was obviously listening to people who wanted something cheaper when it released the S20 FE, and better still, it’s compatible with 5G networks just like the other S20 models. It’s still not exactly “cheap,” though, but we’ll be populating our list with any Galaxy S20 FE deals wherever we can find them.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S20 5G?
If you’re looking for a phone that can run on the new 5G data networks, then you’ll be pleased to know that the Galaxy S20 devices are one such line that joins a growing list of 5G-capable handsets. Just bear in mind that 5G is relatively new technology that is still in the process of rolling out nationwide, and the availability of these next-gen networks will depend upon both your location and your chosen service provider. Even if 5G isn’t offered in your immediate area right now, it likely will be at some point, so buying a smartphone like the Galaxy S20 is still not a bad idea if you intend to take advantage of these improved data speeds in the near future.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S20 Waterproof?
You probably know this already, but a good rule of thumb is that it’s a bad idea to let your phone go for a swim. The Samsung Galaxy S20 family is generally no exception. However, the flagship Galaxy S20 devices do feature IP68 water resistance, meaning that these handsets are rated to survive a dip in up to three feet of water for as long as 30 minutes. If you actually need serious protection against moisture, though (such as for extended outdoor adventures), then you may want to invest in a good waterproof case that can better guard your Galaxy S20 against the elements.
We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

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Greatest low-cost Android pill offers for August 2021

Nifty Nev
Android, Android tablet deals, Android Tablets, commerce 2021, Deals, Mobile |

When you want to use a tablet for work, study, or entertainment, and you’re not an iPad fan, you have excellent options in Android tablets. Android tablets have matured a lot over the past couple of years, driven by competition from great brands like Samsung and Lenovo. There are quite a few of these to choose from, however, so if you’re finding yourself facing some decision paralysis, then check out this all-in-one list of the best Android tablet deals available right now.
Best Android tablet deals

Gateway 8-Inch Tablet 32GB — $65, was $90
Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 32GB — $119, was $149
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite 64GB with S Pen — $295, was $350
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 128GB with S Pen — $570, was $650
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ 128GB with S Pen — $760, was $850

Are Android tablets worth it?

It might seem like Apple has the tablet market cornered, and while the iPad is still dominant, gone are the days when that was your only viable option. Android tablets have become much better in recent years, and they’re a particularly good iPad alternative if you find the price of Apple’s tablet offerings to be a little steep (although the 10.2-inch iPad is a great value, admittedly). A tablet running the Android operating system also offers some obvious benefits if you also own an Android smartphone since your tablet and phone will share a common app ecosystem.
You still need to do some due diligence when shopping for Android tablet deals, though. Unlike iPads, which are made only by Apple, there are a ton of different brands cranking out cheap Android tablets that litter sites like Amazon — and there are plenty of Android tablets you shouldn’t buy. Instead, stick with name brands like Samsung, Lenovo, and other trusted hardware makers that have an established reputation.
However, if you’re shopping for Android tablet deals on the tightest of budgets, you do have some cheap options worth considering. Amazon’s Fire tablets are chief among these: Although they technically run on the proprietary Fire OS (which is Android-based) instead of the standard Android mobile operating system, they still share many apps. Amazon can also afford to make these things so cheap by monetizing Prime content through them. That’s good news for anybody who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money, and in our opinion, the Amazon Fire devices are the only truly cheap Android tablets worth your cash.
If you can stretch your budget a bit, then the field opens up to more premium name-brand tablets. Samsung easily takes the crown here, offering the best Android tablets in its Galaxy Tab S devices (the Galaxy Tab S7+ being one of our current favorites). The Galaxy Tab A models are budget-conscious alternatives to the pricier S line if you’re after cheap Android tablets. The Lenovo Tab series also represents a very solid value, and certain models like the Tab M10 Plus come with a handy Alexa-enabled speaker dock that lets you use the tablet as a smart home display when you’re not taking it on the go.
An interesting newcomer to the Android tablet scene is the Google Pixel Slate, a spinoff of the software company’s hugely successful Pixel line of smartphones. The 12.3-inch Pixel Slate actually runs on Chrome OS, so it’s not technically an Android tablet per se, but more like a touchscreen Chromebook — something that becomes much more apparent when the Slate is paired with a keyboard case that effectively turns it into a superslim 2-in-1. Nonetheless, Chrome OS now works with many Android apps (Google is the name behind both software environments, after all), which makes the Pixel Slate a worthy consideration if you’re looking for Android tablet deals on something with more laptoplike hardware and functionality.
We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

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Google discontinues Pixel 5, Pixel 4a 5G after Pixel 5a launch

Nifty Nev
Android, Google Pixel, Google Pixel 4a 5G, Google Pixel 5, Google Pixel 5a 5G, Google pixel discontinued, Mobile, News |

Google has discontinued the Pixel 5 and Pixel 4a 5G barely 10 months after launch, the company confirmed this week. While eagle-eyed observers had noticed fluctuating stock levels on both Pixels globally, Google had yet to officially weigh in one way or the other until now.
“With our current forecasts, we expect Google Store in the U.S. to sell out of Pixel 4a (5G) and Pixel 5 in the coming weeks following the launch of Pixel 5a (5G). The Pixel 5a (5G) is a great option for customers and delivers valuable hardware upgrades compared to the Pixel 4a (5G), all at a lower price point,” a Google spokesperson confirmed to Digital Trends. This will also apply to non-U.S. markets, with UK vendors like Carphone Warehouse and John Lewis no longer stocking the older Pixels. The older Pixel 4a remains on sale as a low-cost Pixel option.
While the Pixel 5a 5G offers many of the same features you’ll find in the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5, with the IP67 rating and metal body offering durability boosts over the 4a 5G and the larger battery adding staying power over the 5, it’s not going to be an option in international markets. Google has explicitly limited the Pixel 5a 5G to the U.S. and Japan.
This means once the current crop of Pixels sells out, your only hope for a 5G Pixel would be the premium-priced Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. While it seems counterintuitive for Google to drop its Pixels without even releasing the next batch, it makes a bit of sense. The reason for the Pixel 5a 5G’s limited launch is due to a chip shortage affecting the Snapdragon 765 which powers both older Pixels. If Google can’t secure enough chips to launch the new 5a 5G widely, it certainly can’t secure enough to keep two older devices on the shelves.
Fortunately, users in international markets won’t suffer a dearth of cheap Android phones as evidenced by phones like the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G, the OnePlus Nord 2, Xiaomi’s Mi 11 Lite 5G, and so many others. With Google having covered two markets that are typically neglected by Chinese phones, what appeared to be a puzzling decision makes a lot of sense in hindsight.

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Greatest low cost pill offers for August 2021

Nifty Nev
amazon fire, Android, Apple, Apple iPad, Commerce 2020, Deals, Evergreen Deals, Mobile, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Tablets |

If you work or take classes from home, you don’t need to work on a desktop or laptop computer to be productive. You can use a tablet to work from home or for remote learning. Tablets are powerful as productivity devices and also excel when you’re reading, streaming music or video, or just browsing. Smartphones get most of the news coverage, but tablet users demonstrate year after year that they stick with their mobile workhorses. The iPad lineup, the class-leading example, is as good as ever and relatively affordable for Apple products. If iPad OS isn’t your thing, however, you have several alternatives to choose from. Samsung continues to refine the Galaxy Tab line. Amazon’s high-value Fire tablets are a solid choice for tablet buyers, especially Prime members, and avid e-book readers. We’ve got all those and more in this list of tablet deals.
No matter which type of tablet you prefer — or if you don’t have a favorite yet and need some help making that decision — we’re here to lend a hand. We’ve rounded up the best tablet deals and best refurbished tablet deals available online right now. You can also read our quick and handy buying guide below to find the perfect device for your needs and budget. Tablet prices change often, so check back regularly.
Amazon Prime Day is June 21 and 22 this year, and Prime Day deals are making all of these deals even better. Amazon has a huge selection of Prime Day tablet deals that aren’t listed on this page. Make sure to compare them both!
Today’s best tablet deals

Fire HD 8 Kids
— $90, was $140

Fire HD 10 Kids Pro Tablet
— $140, was $200

Apple iPad Mini (256GB, Wi-Fi)
— $449, was $549

Apple iPad Air 2020 (10.9-inch, Wi-Fi, 64GB) – Sky Blue (4th Generation)
— $500, was $599

Apple 11-inch iPad Pro 2021 (Wi-Fi, 128GB) – Space Gray
— $749, was $799

Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 (Wi‑Fi, 128GB) – Space Gray
— $999, was $1,099

Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2021 (Wi‑Fi, 256GB) – Silver
— $1,099, was $1,199

Apple iPad

“iPad” has become almost a generic term for “tablet,” a testament to the massive enduring popularity of these Apple devices. That’s no surprise, given that Apple is the company that pretty much put tablets on the map when it rolled out its first iPad almost a decade ago (2020 will mark the 10th anniversary of the original model). Part of this popularity is also due to their value: With the exception of the iPad Pro, iPads are not as pricey as things like iPhones and MacBooks when compared to the competition.
The standard iPad (now in its seventh generation) is remarkably affordable and remains our most recommended tablet for most people. However, don’t overlook the excellent new iPad Air, which gives the more expensive iPad Pro a serious run for its money, as well as the iPad Mini, which is a tremendous super-portable tablet if you don’t mind sacrificing screen real estate.
The iPad Pro, of course, is the most high-end model in Apple’s tablet stable. It’s expensive, but there’s no denying that it’s Apple’s best tablet, so you’ll have to decide for yourself if the extra juice is worth the squeeze. Be sure to read through our iPad buying guide for a more in-depth breakdown of what models are available to you before combing through the above tablet deals.
Samsung Galaxy Tab
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
There are several Android tablet brands on the market today, but as with Android smartphones, Samsung is the biggest name on the playing field. Its Galaxy Tab devices represent the best Android tablets that money can buy in 2019, and like the iPad line, these devices cover a wide range of price points and features.
The Galaxy Tab S-series bears a similar moniker to the Galaxy S phones and occupies much the same space in Samsung’s product line as the company’s flagship tablets. The current-gen Galaxy Tab S6 is great, but it’s also the most expensive Tab model (typically priced somewhere in-between the iPad Pro and iPad Air). Nonetheless, if you’re looking for an Android tablet to pair with a keyboard, the Tab S6 is perfect.
If you’re looking for a more value-priced option, though, then the Galaxy Tab S5e is a great alternative and another one of our favorites. Samsung makes some even cheaper ones as well, such as the Galaxy Tab A — but if you’re looking for a genuinely budget-minded tablet, then you might want to consider opting for one of Amazon’s Fire devices instead.
Amazon Fire

Amazon’s Fire tablets (formerly part of the Kindle line, although they no longer bear that moniker) have come a long way in recent years. We weren’t die-hard fans of them originally, but for the price, they are are hard to beat today. That’s especially true for Prime members who want to take advantage of everything that their Prime subscription offers, such as Prime Video, Prime Music, Audible audiobooks, free e-books and magazines, and the myriad of other stuff Amazon gives its premium customers.
And of course, since they’re tablets, the Fire devices also put a myriad of apps, games, and other software at your fingertips. Did we mention they’re cheap? The seven-inch Fire 7 starts at just $50, the eight-inch Fire HD 8 (with high-definition display) at $90, and the new Fire HD 10 at $190 — and no, those aren’t just sale prices. Even if the currently available tablet deals don’t feature any discounts on Fire devices at the moment, these are still great buys at their regular prices, but be sure to check back often as Amazon marks these down from time to time. We’ll be updating these deals regularly.
Looking for more great stuff? Find tech discounts and much more on our curated deals page.
We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

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Finest low-cost smartphone offers for August 2021

Nifty Nev
Android, Apple, Deals, Evergreen Deals, Mobile, Phones |

We all know smartphones don’t last forever. Even when we protect them with display shields and custom phone cases, smartphones succumb to wear and tear during years of use. While the best smartphones aren’t cheap, we can help you save some cash if it’s time for a new mobile. We’ve gathered below all the best cheap smartphone deals available this week that cover all the bases including Google Pixel deals, Samsung Galaxy deals, iPhone deals, 5G phone deals, and other bargains.
These discounts can save you hundreds, so if you’ve got some cash left burning a hole in your pocket and you’re hungry for more, definitely check out these smartwatch deals as well.
Today’s best smartphone deals
Carrier offers usually require you to sign up for a specific service (usually an unlimited plan), trade in an old device, or port in your current number to get the best possible discount, and this is often the best way to score a deal on a brand-name smartphone — particularly just released newer models. That’s not always a viable option, however, so these smartphone deals also include some great unlocked devices that you can bring to a service provider of your choice:

OnePlus Nord N10 5G
— $272, was $600

OnePlus 8 (128GB, Unlocked)
— $390, was $699

Samsung Galaxy A71 5G (Sprint)
— $400, was $500

OnePlus 8T (Unlocked)
— $500, was $600

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 5G and Note 20 Ultra 5G (128GB)
— $600, was $1,200

Microsoft Surface Duo 128GB (GSM Unlocked)
— $690, was $1,400

Samsung Galaxy S21 5G (Verizon)
— Up to $1,300 back with trade-in, was $800

Samsung Galaxy smartphone deals
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
More than ten years after their inception, Samsung’s Galaxy smartphones still command the lion’s share of the Android smartphone market and could arguably be considered Apple’s main competition worldwide (although Apple currently enjoys a larger market share in the U.S. than all Android phone brands combined). As you probably inferred from the name, the 2019 Galaxy S10 phones represent the tenth generation of Samsung’s main flagship line, but Samsung got in the spirit of 2020 when it rolled out the new S-series flagship — dubbed the Galaxy S20 — at its February Galaxy Unpacked event. The Galaxy family also features the Note smartphones that occupy kind of a weird space as alternative flagships featuring larger displays and included stylus pens, and we were more impressed with the new Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra than with the S-series devices. Samsung also recently revealed the unique Galaxy Z Flip, a new spin on the old flip-phone concept, along with the larger (almost iPad Mini-like when in use) Samsung Galaxy Fold.
As far as the new 2021 offerings go, the release strategy hasn’t changed much from last year with three next-generation Galaxy devices to choose from: The Galaxy S21, the larger Galaxy S21 Plus, and the premium Galaxy S21 Ultra (which is far and away our favorite of the bunch). They’re all solid phones as you’d expect, although the Samsung didn’t exactly re-invent the wheel. Your best bet when looking for a deal on new releases like these is to take advantage of the carrier offers below, but if you don’t mind last-gen stuff, you can also find great deals on carrier-unlocked models like the Galaxy S10, Note 10, and similar 2019 flagships.
Apple iPhone deals
Andrew Martonik/Digital Trends
The Apple iPhone is the device that brought smartphones into the limelight, and more than a decade later, the series is still going strong. We saw the release of not two, but three new models (an industry trend that has become the norm in recent years) in 2019 with the mid-range iPhone 11, the flagship iPhone 11 Pro, and the up-sized iPhone 11 Pro Max. For 2020, Apple actually released four new flagships — the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max, and Apple also recently brought back the iPhone SE, (with the second-gen SE representing a great mid-range flagship alternative similar to Google’s Pixel 3a). That makes five new Apple phones for 2020, giving you more options than ever if you’re after a new iPhone.
Unfortunately, Apple iPhone deals can be a little hard to find sometimes. Often, the best way to save hundreds is to either take advantage of a carrier sign-up offer or to simply buy refurbished, but savvy bargain-hunters can still find prepaid or unlocked iPhone deals on new and slightly older models if they look around. Now is an especially good time to look for deals on recently discontinued devices such as the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max, which are great flagships from 2018 that are much cheaper now but not too dated for use as your everyday smartphone.
LG smartphone deals
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends
Sorting through LG’s flagship offerings can be a little confusing due to some odd naming conventions, but there’s no denying that this brand pumps out some very good Android smartphones. Not unlike Samsung, LG has two different flagship lines: The standard G-series devices and the premium V-series phones, both of which now bear LG’s “ThinQ” branding. In 2019, the company added three new devices to the G series stable, the LG G8 ThinQ (the successor to the 2018 G7 ThinQ), and the truly unique dual-screen ThinQ G8x, while the V series saw a refresh in the newer 5G-capable LG V50 ThinQ that succeeded the 2018 V35 ThinQ and LG V40 ThinQ. Even more recently, we saw the LG Velvet and dual-screen LG V60 ThinQ.
LG’s newest offerings didn’t excite us quite as much as others have, but they’re still solid Android devices and are worth it if you can find a good deal — which, with our help, you can. Carriers frequently offer discounts, rebates, and BOGO offers on these premium LG devices, but you can also find some nice unlocked smartphone deals sometimes, even on the latest models. And of course, if you want the best deal on a flagship you can still find new (and not used or refurbished), don’t turn up your nose on slightly older picks like the LG G7 ThinQ or the LG G6.
Google Pixel smartphone deals
Google
Google was late to the hardware game, but given that this software titan is the brain behind the Android operating system, it’s no surprise that its Pixel phones deliver what might be the best out-of-the-box Android experience to be found in a mobile device. In contrast to decade-old devices like the iPhone or Galaxy, Google’s Pixel devices are currently only in their fifth generation. The Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL were released last fall, bringing with them some notable improvements like fully metal-and-glass construction (ditching the partially plastic backside of previous models) along with a new three-lens camera module. These were followed by the shockingly cheap Pixel 4a and the new fifth-gen flagship, the Google Pixel 5.
These flagship smartphones are affordable compared to the competition, too (given that Apple and Samsung are now releasing flagships in the $1,000-plus range). Google’s staggered smartphone release strategy means that we may see a new Pixel 5a next spring, but for now, the sub-$400 Pixel 4a is the one to buy if you want one of these devices on the cheap. Also, while deals on the Pixel 5 might be scarce this early after its launch, the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL are still worthy buys that can be had for deep discounts now.
Carrier smartphone deals
Cellular service providers regularly offer enticing incentives to get you to switch to their LTE plans. Carrier offers are also often the best way to score deals on new flagships like the iPhone 12 and Samsung Galaxy S20. If you’re looking for a new carrier, you can save a good chunk of change and even score a free device by taking advantage of one of the many smartphone deals that are always available from Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T, although note that these promotions are often given in the form of bill credits rather than regular discounts.
These carrier offers change all the time, but you can check out each service provider’s updated deal page right here:

T-Mobile
Verizon
AT&T
Sprint

We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

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Waze hooks up with PAW Patrol for driving instructions from canine

Nifty Nev
Android, Apple, Cars, Mobile, mobile maps, Movies & TV, navigation, News, online maps, paw patrol, Travel, Waze |

Waze likes to roll out fun features from time to time, the latest one landing with the launch of PAW Patrol: The Movie.
Aimed at kids, or, more accurately, parents who’re keen to keep their littl’uns entertained on long drives, U.S.-based Waze users can now get driving directions from Ryder and his loyal team of rescue dogs.

“To celebrate PAW Patrol: The Movie, the first-ever theatrical release of PAW Patrol on August 20, you and your young passengers can turn each drive into a mission with the community-loving heroes and their iconic vehicles,” Waze said in a message announcing the new feature. “Once activated, you’ll be guided by Ryder, who will kickstart your mission (or drive), and fan favorite Pups Marshall, Skye, and Chase will be on the case, navigating your drive and keeping you in the know on anything happening nearby or on your route.”
You can also change your Waze Mood to Chase, Marshall, or Skye and “ride into action with Chase’s Police Cruiser, Marshall’s Fire Truck, or even Skye’s Plane if you fancy a less conventional way to get where you’re going.”
Waze
How to access PAW Patrol on Waze
To use PAW Patrol for navigation on iOS and Android, tap on My Waze at the bottom of the display, then on the Settlings icon. Next, tap on Voice & Sound, and then Waze Voice under Voice Directions. Finally, look down the list and select PAW Patrol.
It’s certainly not the first time that Waze has dived into the world of children’s entertainment to keep kids distracted. A couple of years ago, for example, it used several voices from Sesame Street to guide people along, with the Cookie Monster turning out to be a huge hit among the show’s cast of characters.
More adult-focused navigators have included the likes of Morgan Freeman, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jay Leno, and even Elvis Presley. As with all of its celebrity voices, the PAW Patrol feature will run for a limited time so you’d better hurry if you want to try it out.
If you’re still getting to grips with Waze and want to learn more, skip across to Digital Trends’ guide featuring all the top tips and tricks.

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