Archive for category Google

Google Assistant now answers your Coronavirus related questions

Google has added a new function to its Google assistant called ‘Coronavirus tips’ which is a shortcut that could be accessed by either clicking on the shortcut from the Google Assistant app or by using the command ‘Do I have Coronavirus’. Once you use the command, your Google Assistant will show you a symptoms page for the Coronavirus where you could get detailed information about the symptoms, causes, and prevention for the virus.

The Google Assistant also responds with a short voice message giving you information about the Coronavirus, the symptoms, and the latest updates. You can also click on other useful links provided on the results page to learn more about the virus and get the latest news. The new Coronavirus tips function in the Google Assistant could also be accessed by clicking on the ‘Coronavirus tips’ shortcut on the home page or the discover page of the Google Assistant.

Google assistant
Coronavirus
Coronavirus

You can also select other relevant shortcuts like tips for working from home, how to wash your hands, and even set a reminder to wash your hands. Google Assistant will also provide you with the latest news updates in the relevant topics once you use the Coronavirus tips shortcut from the home page of the app. The aim of this new shortcut is to spread as much awareness as possible and also help people to get the right information especially with so many misinformation and fake news about the virus out there.

Apple also has added a similar function to its digital assistant Siri, which essentially asks you a series of questions about the Coronavirus symptoms to help you to self-diagnose yourself or to just learn more about the virus. While the Google Assistant just redirects you to relevant websites with information about Coronavirus, hopefully, we can see a similar functionality added to it soon by Google.

Tags: , ,

Google Pixel 4a leaks in 6-minute video

It’s early March, which means we may be a few weeks (or months) away from Google introducing the successor to its Pixel 3a line. It also means it’s time for the leaks and rumors to ramp up.

Such is the case today as a 6-minute video has surfaced which might as well be the first review of the so-called Pixel 4a. Indeed, the device is shown off rather extensively, with specifications, details and looks at both the front and back.

Given there’s plenty of time before a presumed May launch, the final design could undergo a few cosmetic changes.

Here are some of the details gleaned from the video

  • Powered by Android 10
  • 5.8-inch 1080p HD display w/ hole-punch camera
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 730 processor
  • 6GB RAM
  • 64GB storage
  • 3,080mAh battery
  • 12-megapixel rear camera
  • Rear fingerprint reader

Assuming the price stays close to last year’s Pixel 3a, Google could have another solid mid-range or junior flagship experience. What do you think of the Pixel 4a based on this leak? Are you interested?

Tags: ,

Latest Pixel Feature Drop adds location-based actions, music gesture, more

Google’s second Pixel Feature Drop, rolling out to various Pixel phones as early as today, brings about a number of new features and functions. Not to be confused with the monthly patch and security update, this is a quarterly push that adds interesting ways of interacting and using Pixel phones.

Not all models will see the same features as it largely depends on the hardware and components. Nevertheless, here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect to see come to Pixel 2, 3, 3a, and Pixel 4 series of phones.

  • Pause and resume music using a tap gesture
  • Live Caption for older models
  • Long-press the lock/power button to surface Google Pay credit and debit cards, boarding passes, event tickets, etc.
  • New AR effects for Duo video calls on Pixel 4
  • Portrait Blur, color pop, 3D photos for front-facing camera
  • More customizable emoji
  • Schedule system-wide dark theme for sunset to sunrise
  • Enable automatic rules (turn on Wi-Fi, Do Not Disturb, etc.) based on location

Visit Google’s blog to learn more about the latest Pixel Feature Drop.

Tags: , , ,

Google offers up first look at Android 11 with Developer Preview

Google on Wednesday released its first Developer Preview of Android 11, giving us our initial glimpse into the future of Android.

Arriving earlier than anticipated, the Android 11 Developer Preview doesn’t have anything major in the ways of user interface or experience. It does, though, have a fair share of interesting new features, particularly around messaging and security.

Although it’s called Android 11, developers and tinkerers looking through things will see references to Android R. But, don’t go looking for any sweets or desserts as Google has shed that aspect of the naming convention.

As device makers and network providers continue to integrate 5G, Google aims to make it easier to adopt the next-gen speeds and tech. To that end, Android 11 has platform-level updates for 5G.

Other features baked into Android 11 include enhancements for folding screens, hole punch displays, and waterfall displays, as well as SHAKEN/STIR call screen authentication. Also included is better low-latency video decoding for streaming games service like Google’s Stadia.

A new location permission option lets users grant a one-time access when installing or setting up an app. This builds on the granular control introduced in Android 10 which gives users the option to only allow access to a device’s settings when an app is open — as opposed to an always-on, always-reporting manner.

There’s a fairly long list of details in the Android 11 Developer Preview, some more obvious to users than others. With that said, it’s still designed for developers and a lot of what’s important will be behind the scenes and less overt.

As we’ve seen in the last few years, this is just a first look at how Android 11 will operate. New features and updates will be introduced in the coming months leading up to Google I/O in May.

If you’re a developer hoping to ready your app or game for Android 11, you can download a system image for select devices. Available for flashing today, you can visit the Android 11 developer site and grab on for a Pixel 2, 3, 3a, or 4 device.

Tags: , ,

Here’s how to use RCS messaging on “most” Android phones

Google has been busy as of late, advancing its users past the decades-old protocol of SMS. The new universal option that the company is trying to bring to light is Rich Communication Servies, or RCS.

What’s it do?

We first outlined what RCS does and what Google’s intentions were in post back in November 2019. In short, the RCS protocol gives Android Message users the opportunity for more data packed messages between chats. Think “iMessage for Android”.

The fallback is still going to be SMS, but if both parties have RCS, they can share larger groups, videos, and pictures in conversations.

How to turn it on

To be sure, the road has been long and there are still caveats with a rolling release. What’s more, you have to use Android Messages as your client. Getting your phone to take advantage of RCS is just a few menu clicks away after you verify Android Messages is installed.

Let’s do it!

  • Open Android Messages from the application tray
  • If you’ve never used Messages you may get prompted to immediately turn on Chat (RCS)
  • Otherwise, select the hamburger menu in the top right and go to Settings
  • Tap Chat features
  • Make sure status is Connected and Enable chat features is toggled to ON

Chat Away

It’s worth noting that this new RCS option is dependent on multiple variables. So far, there’s no apparent list or reasoning as to which devices are capable of RCS Chat and which are not.

Also, it can also take up to 30 minutes for the Messages app to show Connected.

We do know that most Pixel phones seem to be enabled as do many Samsung phones. I can also verify that Essential phones seem to have the option’s server-side switch to show Chat enabling. Unfortunately, my BlackBerry Key2 LE has yet to present me with the ability to turn on Chat.

Google has voiced that it is actively working to push support to more devices. For those that already have the ability, we hope this tutorial helps you expand your Chat options with your friends and family.

Tags: , ,

The best Android phones available at Net10 Wireless

When it comes to smart phones and rate plans, most consumers are familiar with the big four brands (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint) in the carrier space. But what about the numerous prepaid and MVNO companies?

We’ve covered many of the bigger names, highlighting them with buyer’s guides and invite you to check them out. While they’re a great jumping off point, they don’t dive into the specific of handset selection.

Take, for instance, Net10 Wireless. What sort of options does the carrier offer when it comes to buying a new phone?

We’ve gathered up a handful of the best phones you can purchase at Net10 Wireless today. Although the selection is limited, there are still interesting and compelling handsets to buy.

We select one as the best overall (Editors’ Choice); however, the list isn’t strictly about the most powerful.

As always, we suggest buying an unlocked phone or a used tier-one phone for use with Net10. The options are plentiful in both directions and you’ll likely get something more powerful.


Google Pixel 3a

Yes, there are many other devices with much more hardware to choose from, even at Net10. Yes, they are phones that cost less and still suffice for the masses. No, you can’t beat this one. 

The stock Android experience stays as current as anything you’ll find and it only get better with each, timely update. Throw in a camera that wows anyone and everyone, a solid battery, and a $400 price tag and you can understand why we love it.

Is it worth spending the extra money to get the full Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL experience? Sure, but it’s not necessary. This one has all the stuff that’s important with compromises done in just the right spots.


Samsung Galaxy Note 10

You can’t have a list of top phone without including the latest and greatest. In this case, it’s the Samsung Galaxy Note 10. Outfitted with a large (6.3-inch) screen, lots of (8GB) memory, and an incredible camera experience, it’s a no-compromise device.

We love the updated S Pen experience, in-display fingerprint scanner, and wireless charging. The phone is sexy, sophisticated looking, and boasts hardware that rivals all comers. The Samsung DeX Mode turns your phone into a desktop-like experience, taking advantage of all of that prowess.


Motorola Moto G7 Power

We absolutely adore what Motorola does with its Android phones, particularly along the lower end of the price spectrum. Its handsets run a bare bones Android experience that leaves things pretty much the way Google intended. In other words, clean, intuitive, and user friendly.

Here, you get a massive (6.2-inch) HD screen, a modern build of Android, and respectable smattering of mid-range hardware. Key details include an octa-core processor, 32GB internal storage, and a microSD card slot for external media.

Other things we appreciate? A water resistant coating, USB Type-C charging, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The best part of all? There’s a 5,000mAh battery that’s good enough to get typical users through two days of usage.


Google Pixel 4

Maybe one of the more controversial “best” phones we’ve seen in some time, the Pixel 4 is the newest from Google. And while it’s not the most powerful and robust device on the market, it does have its share of cool features.

 

First, of course, is the really great camera experience; it gets better with each generation. Also worth your attention is the baked-in Google Assistant and Android 10 experience.

The display is really awesome, too, and we’re big fans of the design change. If you can swing it, buy the larger storage option because 64GB is a little light in 2020. Go for the Pixel 4 XL and get a bigger display and higher capacity battery.


Motorola Moto Z4

Four generations later, we’re glad to see Motorola still investing in the Moto Z line and its Moto Mods ecosystem. The Moto Z4 pushes things forward enough to keep us happy and Motorola does a great job keeping the price in line.

 

Enjoy a large 6.4-inch screen, some of the latest in Android, and a capacious 128GB storage capacity, for about half of what others charge. We also appreciate Motorola’s keeping a 3.5mm headphone jack and adding the in-display fingerprint scanner. It’s a nice mix of old favorites and cutting edge features.

We love that users can add modules as needed or when applicable. Want a better speaker, extended battery, or physical gaming controls? Snap them on the back as needed.


Samsung Galaxy A50

Knowing that this list already has a Samsung model on it, we have to add the Galaxy A50. Why? Because it’s a fraction of what the Galaxy S models cost, but still give users all the important features.

The Galaxy A series in itself is very interesting to watch, however this is the one we like most. Present are a generous 6.4-inch display and a multi-camera (25 MP/8 MP/5MP) array on the rear, and a battery that rivals most phones. You know, the stuff we love.

Under the hood are an octa-core processor with 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage, and a microSD expansion card slot for up to 512GB space. Rounding things out are a headphone jack, fingerprint reader, and USB Type C charging.

Tags: ,

Google Nest Wifi review

We’re a few years into mesh networking systems and things continue to get better. Not only that, but they’re getting less expensive, too. It’s quite easy to set up a home network that covers all rooms in all floors, regardless of the size of the house. And we don’t have to spend a ton of money in the process.

The Google Nest Wifi is Google’s second foray in this space, as it follows the 2016 Google Wifi. The 2019 experience gains a few upgrades with more powerful hardware, and also features a more modern design.

Google offers a number of Nest Wifi options, including a two-piece (router and access point) and three-piece (router and two points). Additionally, it sells the router and Wifi points separately. As to which one you’ll want or need largely revolves around the size of your home. Indeed, the router alone is reported to provide coverage up to 2,200 square feet.

  • Nest Wifi router – 2,200 square feet
  • Nest Wifi router w/ one point – 3,800 square feet
  • Nest Wifi router w/ two points – 5,400 square feet
  • Nest Wifi point – 1,600 square feet

Google provided us with the two-piece (router and point) system which covers up to 3,800 square feet. Here is our review of the Google Nest Wifi after spending a few weeks with the bundle.

Design

For a company who didn’t produce hardware until a few years ago Google really does have a particular design language. The router and point fit right in and look right at home in any environment. They’re unobtrusive, simple, and easy on the eyes.

Gone is the puck-like shape as this generation features a taller, marshmallow-esque design. The router is 4.3-inches tall and houses a WAN port, gigabit LAN port, and power jack in its base.

The point, available in Sand (tan), Mist (soft blue), and Snow (white) colors, is just a smidge shorter and contains a Bluetooth radio and Google Assistant-powered smart speaker. In essence, you get an extra Nest Mini with each point.

Inside the point are four far-field microphones and a 40mm speaker driver which offers 360-degree audio. There’s also a power jack, an LED ring that surrounds the base, and a privacy switch to disable Google Assistant. The light ring glows white when you ask questions of the speaker.

Setup

The Nest Wifi is not a modem, so you’ll be plugging into an existing modem. Your internet provider likely offers at least a basic model that may or may not provide for wireless connectivity.

The process is more or less plugging into the modem, opening the Google Home app, and following the instructions. If you’ve ever set up devices in the Google Home app, you’ll find this hassle-free stuff.

Should this be your first attempt at setting up a Google Home, you’ll need to log in via your Google account or create one first. You’ll want to download the Google Wifi app for more control over the network, including seeing which unit a device might be connected to or configure port forwarding.

The Google Wifi app also helps determine the best location(s) for your points, set up and test its speaker(s), and test speeds between the router and the point. It can also test the overall speed of your home connection.

Configuration and Usage

If for no other reason, parents ought to love where we are with today’s WiFi network capabilities. We appreciate controls over specific devices, blocking access to adult websites, and/or creating schedules. And, perhaps most of all, we love being able to hit the pause button any time we want.

The Nest Wifi provides all of these features and in a way that’s user friendly and intuitive. None of these are exclusive, of course, but we like that we don’t need to dig deep to make adjustments.

It’s worth noting here that the router only has one Ethernet port and that points have none. This could prove troublesome for people who like to physically connect devices like a PC, game console, Shield TV, and/or Chromecast Ultra. While some love the flexibility of going wireless, there are others who’d rather connect directly.

One of the cooler features that comes with the Nest Wifi is how it can help others connect to the network. Have friends over for game night? You can have your smart displays show a QR code that automatically lets them connect with the proper credentials.

Right around the time we started reviewing the Nest Wifi we also received and started testing out Google Stadia. As some may know, the game streaming service requires a rather solid (read: fast and stable) internet connection.

Nest Wifi can be optimized for Google Stadia with its “Gaming Preferred” mode. When enabled, it prioritizes gaming over Stadia or consoles instead of PC, Chromebooks, phones, etc. Sure, this feature is readily available for most wireless networks and mesh systems, but it’s not always this easy and obvious.

One thing we’re starting to see become popular in mesh networks is the advent of WiFi 6 support. It’s the newest protocol and a standard by which many new products will adhere. We’ll see it in laptops and other devices as they roll out over 2020 and beyond.

 

Unfortunately, there’s no support for WiFi 6 in the Nest Wifi. While this might be a deal-breaker for some, we’re reminded that very few people know what it is nor do they have a data connection that even comes closes to fully taking advantage. It’s a non-starter for all but the most serious, and demanding user.

Another feature that’s new for the Nest Wifi is that the Nest Wifi Point doubles as a smart speaker. It’s usually just $30-$50 for a Nest Mini; adding them to your home is cheap and easy.

Here, though, the sound that comes from the point is great — better than what you might get out of the low-cost Nest Mini. Hell, we like it better than the first-gen Google Home speaker.

Music is loud, clear, and punchy. In fact, you may wish to adjust the equalizer to dial bass down if you’re using it for music. The Google Assistant, and any podcasts or playlists sound excellent and particularly surprising for a device that’s first purpose is for WiFi.

Conclusion – Should you buy Nest Wifi?

Even though our homes aren’t getting physically bigger, we find that single routers and modems just don’t work any longer. And while you might be paying for a great internet package, you’ll probably run into dropped connections, buffering, and poor reception in parts of the home.

If you’ve added a handful of smart speakers, displays, lights, or anything similar in the last year or two, you’ll want to consider a mesh system. The same goes for a home with multiple family members. By the time you add in phones, tablets, computers, TVs, game consoles, and other WiFi-connected products, you could be looking at dozens of things nipping at your network.

That’s a long way of saying that you should be looking into a mesh system. But, what about Google’s Nest WiFi? If the Google Assistant is your preferred virtual/digital assistant, the Nest Wifi is a no-brainer. You absolutely should be looking at this as a possible solution.

Things are super simple from the time you take it out of the box to the time your friend jumps on as a guest. You can’t ask for a much easier or more intuitive interface. Additionally, you’d be hard-pressed to find an option that has the same range and features. In fact, there are no other options on the market which add a Google Assistant-ready speaker.

We appreciate that consumers can select from different options and that it’s not just a “one size fits all” package. There’s no risk of buying too much network, and if your needs change, you can scale to meet demands.

Availability

Nest Wifi comes in the following options:

  • One piece: (Router) for $169
  • Two pieces: (Router + Point) for $269
  • Three pieces: (Router + Two Points) for $349

Consumers can find the Nest Wifi at their favorite retailers including B&H Photo, Amazon, Best Buy, and online at the Google Store. Color choices include Snow (white), Mist (light blue), and Sand (light pink).

Tags: ,

Verizon bundles Google Stadia with its Fios plan

Verizon on Tuesday announced it will be giving its Fios customers an opportunity to receive a Google Stadia account with gaming hardware.

Starting January 29, Verizon Fios subscribers who sign up for the Gigabit plan will get a Stadia Premiere Edition which is the gaming controller and Chromecast Ultra. Additionally, the bundle comes with three months of the Stadia Pro gaming subscription.

Once the introductory window closes, Fios customers will be charged the standard $9.99 monthly rate. The hardware, valued at $130, is yours to keep with no obligation to continue service.

READ: Google Stadia review

This marks the first partnership, so to speak, for Google’s Stadia service. Having just launched a few months back, it will probably take another opportunity like this (or more) to help it gain major attention.

Fios Gigabit packages start at $79.99 per month and are ideal for a virtually
seamless entertainment and gaming experience. New Mix & Match on Fios subscribers
who choose Gigabit get a brand new Fios Home Router featuring WiFi 6 technology
included.

The bundle isn’t the first time that Verizon has turned to Google for a deal. Verizon gives Fios customers a free month of YouTube TV.

Looking ahead, Verizon says it will have other Stadia promotions for 5G Home customers. And for those who wonder, Fios subscribers can stack the Stadia offer with the free year of Disney+ that is also included.

Tags: , , ,

The best Android phones available at Verizon Prepaid

Verizon Prepaid, like its postpaid brand, has a number of great phone options. It’s essentially the same as what you might find at the tier-one carrier, but there are other models exclusively offered in a prepaid manner.

Here, we gather up some of the best Android phones you can buy through Verizon Prepaid today. Although we do select one as the best overall (Editors’ Choice), the list below aims to address a variety of user types.


Verizon


Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Prepaid

Outfitted with a large screen, lots of memory, and an incredible camera experience, this is a no-compromise device. It’s one of the newest phones on the list and a true testament to what Samsung is capable of producing.

We love the updated S Pen experience, in-display fingerprint scanner, and wireless charging. The phone is sexy, sophisticated looking, and boasts hardware that rivals all comers. The Samsung DeX Mode turns your phone into a desktop-like experience, taking advantage of all of that prowess.

Bonus points are awarded for the 5G-ready version, a Verizon exclusive. If you live in a market that has the ever-expanding 5G network, the Galaxy Note 10 is on a short list of supported devices.


Samsung Galaxy S10 Prepaid

If you’re on the hunt for a phone that you plan to own for a few years, you don’t want to cut corners. To that end, the Galaxy S10 is that flagship device that’s built to last. Yes, even with the rumored successor hanging out just over the horizon, this is still one to consider.

Choose from three versions of the phone, each of which runs Android 9 (Pie) with Samsung’s One UI. As of the time we publish this list the Android 10 update is rolling out.  Resistant to dust and water, the Galaxy S10 line has excellent cameras, beautiful glass designs, and generous batteries — all important things to most users.


Google Pixel 3a

There are plenty of other devices with much more hardware to choose from, even at Verizon Prepaid. And yes, there are phones that cost less and still suffice for the masses. But there’s nothing else at the prepaid carrier that walks the line between value and performance.

The stock Android experience stays as current as anything you’ll find and it only get better with each, timely update. Throw in a camera that wows anyone and everyone, a solid battery, and a $400 price tag and you can understand why we love it.

Is it worth spending the extra money to get the full Pixel 4 or Pixel 4 XL experience? Sure, but it’s not necessary. This one has all the stuff that’s important with compromises done in just the right spots. You’d have a tough time convincing us that you truly need more from a phone as 2020 gets going.


Pixel 4 Prepaid

Maybe one of the most controversial “best” phones we’ve seen in some time, the Pixel 4 is the newest from Google. And while it’s not the most powerful and robust device on the market, it does have its share of cool features.

 

First, of course, is the really great camera experience; it gets better with each generation. Also worth your attention is the baked-in Google Assistant and Android 10 experience.

The display is really awesome, too, and we’re big fans of the design change. If you can swing it, buy the larger storage option because 64GB is a little light, especially in 2020. Go for the Pixel 4 XL and get a bigger display and higher capacity battery.


Motorola Moto Z4 Prepaid

Four generations later, we’re glad Motorola still invests in its Moto Z line and Moto Mods ecosystem. The Moto Z4 pushes things forward enough to keep us happy and Motorola does a great job keeping the price in line.

Enjoy a large 6.4-inch screen, the latest in Android, and a capacious 128GB storage capacity, for about half of what you’d expect to pay. We also appreciate Motorola’s keeping a 3.5mm headphone jack and adding the in-display fingerprint scanner. It’s a nice mix of old favorite and cutting edge features.

We love that users can add modules as needed or when applicable. Want a better speaker, extended battery, or physical gaming controls? Snap them on the back. Hell, you can add 5G connectivity to the phone once Verizon’s network reaches your city.


Nokia 3 V Prepaid

Younger readers might not even know that there used to be a Nokia from the days before Android. Nevertheless, the stuff coming out of the brand in today is among the most interesting.

Don’t be fooled by the price of the Nokia 3 V; it’s all the phone that most users need, especially in the prepaid demographic. For your money you get a large screen and a battery that lasts well beyond a day. And while those are nice, we’re bigger fans of the stock Android software and its updates and support.

When you’re buying multiple phones for a family you don’t want to break the piggy bank. These are excellent options for first time users and parents alike — and leave money in your wallet.


Samsung Galaxy A50 Prepaid

Knowing that this list already has a few Samsung models on it, we have to add the Galaxy A50. Why? Because it’s a fraction of what the Galaxy S models cost, but still give users all the important features.

The Galaxy A series in itself is very interesting to watch, however this is the one we like most. Present are a generous 6.4-inch display and a multi-camera (25 MP/8 MP/5MP) array on the rear, and a battery that rivals most phones. You know, the stuff we love.

Under the hood are an octa-core processor with 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage, and a microSD expansion card slot for up to 512GB space. Rounding things out are a headphone jack, fingerprint reader, and USB Type C charging.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The best deals available at Sprint (January 2020)

We all love saving money, right? When it comes to buying phones and mobile tech, chances are good there are devices on sale at any given moment. Retailers and carriers do their best to attract customers, or get current subscribers to upgrade. As 2020 gets rolling there are plenty of great promotions and sales relating to phones.

Sprint Promotions

Here, we highlight the savings and discounts that can be had at Sprint this month. This isn’t an exhaustive list, and things might have changed by the time you read this. Nevertheless, we’ve pulled out what we think are the best from the carrier.

Big Discounts and Rebates

  • Get the Samsung Tab A 8.0” for $0
  • Get the Samsung Galaxy S10 for just $10/mo. with Sprint Flex lease
  • Get the Google Pixel 3 for just $10/mo. with Sprint Flex lease
  • Lease the Samsung Galaxy A10e for $5 per month
  • Lease the Samsung Galaxy A50 for $10 per month
  • Lease the LG Tribute for $0 per month
  • Lease the LG Tribute Royal or LG Tribute Empire for $0/mo. when you bring your number to Sprint

Other Offers

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,