Skip to main content

Latest by Mark Jansen

The Nest Hub Max front view.

SiriusXM comes to Nest Home devices to boost your listening and watching options

Internet radio service SiriusXM is coming to U.S. and Canadian Google Nest smart speakers and smart displays this week, giving you even more choice where listening is concerned. With options to listen to talk radio stations, dedicated artist channels, and even watch exclusive video content through a SiriusXM sub.
Google promo image for RCS.

How to turn on the futuristic RCS messaging in Google Messages right now

It might not be as exciting the next Galaxy smartphone, but RCS messaging represents a long-awaited upgrade to the extremely basic SMS text message, and it adds features that turn the humble text message into a chat app. But it's not available yet -- unless you use this trick to turn it on in Google Messages.
Square Off

Square Off’s new self-moving chessboard doesn’t just play chess

The Square Off self-moving chessboard was one of the best parts of CES 2017. Now, the chessboard that emulates Wizard's Chess from Harry Potter just got better with the launch of the Square Off Neo and the Square Off Swap, with new features that allow you to watch live professional chess games in real time and more.
iphone 11 pro max vs pixel 4 xl design

Google Pixel 4 XL vs. iPhone 11 Pro Max: Can Google bite the big Apple?

Google's Pixel 4 XL is the search engine giant's latest addition to its range of flagship phones, and it's a good one. With upgraded internals, an improved camera, and the radar-powered air gestures, it's the phone of the moment. But can is it good enough to take a bite out of the big Apple: the iPhone 11 Pro Max?
OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition

A 5G version of the OnePlus 7T Pro exists, but it’s a limited T-Mobile exclusive

We were worried we wouldn't see another 5G-enabled OnePlus phone this year, but thankfully, that's turned out to not be true. OnePlus has teamed up with T-Mobile to deliver the OnePlus 7T Pro 5G McClaren Edition on T-Mobile's growing 5G network. Pricing and release date will be announced soon.
galaxy s10 plus fingerprint

The Galaxy S10’s fingerprint sensor can be fooled by a screen protector

Samsung has confirmed reports the Samsung Galaxy S10's ultrasonic fingerprint scanner can be fooled by a simple film screen protector. According to recent reports, putting a screen protector on the S10 allows an unregistered fingerprint to unlock a Galaxy S10. Thankfully, Samsung claims a software update is on the way.
Google Pixel Event

Nest Mini, Pixelbook Go, and more: Everything Google announced at the Pixel 4 event

Google took to the stage at the Pixel 4 Made by Google event, and it announced a wealth of new devices to take your heart away. But not everyone can watch live, and you may need to catch up. From the Google Pixel 4, to the new Pixel Buds 2, and even the Pixelbook Go, here's everything announced at the Pixel 4 event.
Google & Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai

Here’s how to watch the Pixel 4 Made by Google event from today

The Google Pixel 4 launch is just around the corner and Google is throwing a party to celebrate. With new phones, a new Pixelbook, and some new smart devices expected, it's due to be quite the show. But how can you tune in and watch it live? Here's how you can watch all the Made by Google October 2019 reveals.
Pixel 3

What to expect at the Made by Google Pixel 4 event today

October is the spookiest month around, but there's nothing scary about the impending launch of the Google Pixel 4. Google's made no secret of its intentions for the October 15 event, but there's more than just the Pixel 4 smartphone. From a new Nest Wifi to a Pixelbook Go, here's what to expect.
Pixel 3

Don’t expect to see a 5G Pixel 4 and the Pixel Watch at Made by Google today

There's absolutely going to be a lot to see at Google's Pixel 4 Made by Google event today, but some last-minute rumors say we won't be seeing two fairly huge devices. According to sources speaking to 9to5 Google, neither the Google Pixel 4 5G or Google Pixel Watch will be shown off by Google today.
Samsung Galaxy S10 family

Samsung rolling out Android 10 One UI beta to certain S10 owners in the U.S.

Samsung has launched the beta for its custom Android 10 skin, One UI. If you're based in the U.S. and are using a Samsung Galaxy S10, S10 Plus, or S10e, then you can sign up to the Samsung Members app and apply for beta access. Here are some of the top features Samsung is adding that you can try out.
nomad and aira beat apple airpower to the punch with base station pro

Nomad and Aira have created the Apple AirPower wireless charger we always wanted

Apple thought it couldn't be done, but Nomad and Aira have done it -- a wireless charger that can charge multiple devices at once. Named the Base Station Pro, the AirPower-like wireless charger has a single charging coil that can track and charge up to three devices at once -- including Apple's AirPods.
Hong Kong Protests

Tim Cook defends removal of Hong Kong protest app from the App Store

Amid protests in Hong Kong, Apple has pulled the controversial HKmap.live app, which displays the location of police, from its app store following a critical op-ed in the People's Daily, a Chinese state-owned newspaper. Apple CEO Tim Cook has defended the decision in an internal memo.
Koba Forma review

Kobo Forma e-book readers can now access Dropbox. Here’s how to link up

If you're not using an Amazon Kindle for your e-books, then the Kobo Forma is the high-end e-book reader for you. Accessibility was always a big selling point for it, but now the Forma has been supercharged by the addition of Dropbox access, so you can quickly download and read books, documents, and more.
wireless charging over distance barriers cover

New Android phones must support USB-C PD and Digital Wellbeing, Google says

Google has changed its requirements for access to Google's services and now requires that Android phones from this point on must support the open charging standard, USB-C PD, and Google's Digital Wellbeing tool. While this may seem innocuous, it means you'll soon be able to access more fast charging.
5 features i want to see in the google pixel 4

Leaked Canadian Pixel 4 pricing suggests we should prepare for a price hike

The Google Pixel 4 is just over a week away, but the leaks haven't stopped arriving yet. The latest news to hit our doorsteps is that of pricing — and there's something of an unwelcome surprise for all of us. According to leaked Canadian pricing, the Pixel 4 range may see some small price increases.
Teracube

Can a $400 phone last for four years? The Teracube phone is up for the challenge

Upgrading your phone every year can make a huge pile of e-waste, and waiting to upgrade can cut that down significantly. Teracube is taking that to the extreme, and has launched a phone that claims it will last up to four years with a suitably generous replacement and warranty program. Say hello to the Teracube.
Apple iPhone 8 keyboard best iphone 8 screen protectors

Apple analyst predicts iPhone SE 2 with iPhone 11’s processor to arrive in 2020

The iPhone SE 2 has to be one of the most highly anticipated iPhone releases of all time, and it seems it's finally on the way. Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has added fuel to speculation that the iPhone SE 2 will arrive in early 2020, and will essentially be an upgraded version of the iPhone 8.
Google Assistant at the bottom of a phone.

Here’s how the new Google Assistant and Motion Sense will work on the Pixel 4

The Google Pixel 4 is just around the corner, so leaks are flying in now. The latest leaks are a series of marketing videos that show off the new Motion Sense control method and the updated Google Assistant on the Pixel 4, as well as some shiny new features for everyone's favorite Google A.I.
Microsoft Surface Duo with screens open.

The foldable Microsoft phone exists! Say hello to the Microsoft Surface Duo

Well that certainly caught us by surprise — Microsoft just announced a foldable phone at its Surface event. The Microsoft Surface Duo is a new breed of folding phone, and the perfect complement to the incredible new Surface Neo. Here's absolutely everything you need to know about the Microsoft Surface Duo.
nostalgic old phones modern update classic motorola razr

The Motorola Razr foldable phone may launch before the end of 2019

The Motorola Razr V3 is one of the world's most iconic phones, and it could be making a return in the form of a foldable Motorola smartphone. We haven't seen the phone yet, but leaks are creating a comprehensive picture of its possible design and specifications. Here's what we know about it so far.
oneplus 7t review slider

OnePlus 7T vs. Samsung Galaxy Note 10: Flagship smartphone comparison

The OnePlus 7T is the latest addition to its flagship-killing pantheon, and it's an amazing phone with capabilities that bely its $600 price. But a flagship killer needs a flagship to kill, and we're testing it against the Samsung Galaxy Note 10. At $950, it has power to match its price. Can OnePlus win?
Android Oreo Go

Android Go: Everything you need to know about Google’s low-power mobile OS

Android is great, but it can be a bit unwieldy for low-powered devices. That's why Google released Android Go, a lighter version of Android meant just for phones with less than 1.5GB of RAM and less. This light OS and a bevy of similarly refined Go apps provide everything a low-powered phone needs.
xiaomi mi mix alpha concept phone news feat

The Xiaomi Mi Mix Alpha with its ‘surround screen’ costs more than a Galaxy Fold

Who needs an unfolding phone when you could just have a phone with a wrap-around display? Xiaomi has announced the Xiaomi Mi Mix Alpha, a stunning concept phone with a display that wraps around almost all of the phone. It's only coming in a limited run though, and this powerful and futuristic phone will cost $2,800.
Kik-hero

Kik Messenger shuts down as Kik focuses on embattled cryptocurrency

Kik Interactive's CEO has announced that Kik Messenger will be shutting down in order for Kik to focus on its Kin cryptocurrency. The app shutdown will be accompanied by over 100 layoffs at Kik Interactive, and both actions are meant to bolster Kik's finances against in impending court case against the U.S. SEC.
misfit vapor x smartwatch news mis3081522

Misfit releases the Vapor X, its lightest, most comfortable smartwatch yet

Making good smartwatches affordable can be tough, but it's where Misfit seems to thrive. The latest in Misfit's range of wearables is the Vapor X, a lightweight and stylish smartwatch aimed at those with an active lifestyle, but it's likely to appeal to everyone. Here's everything you need to know.
apple card review ed oswald

Get 3% Daily Cash on Apple Card for any T-Mobile store purchase

T-Mobile announced it has partnered with Apple to offer you an unbeatable amount of Daily Cash on any Apple Card purchase from T-Mobile stores. Starting from Friday, September 20, you'll be able to get 3% Daily Cash from any purchase with Apple Pay through your Apple Card. Maybe treat yourself to a new iPhone.
North Focals

Measure up for your Focal smartglasses in the U.S. and Canada with North’s app

Smartglasses may or may not be the future, but it's now easier than ever to get a hold of a pair yourself. North has released a new app that allows users to measure their faces and virtually try on a pair of North Focal smartglasses, making it easier to buy the only pair of smartglasses we'd actually wear.
iPhone-11-hands-on

Apple turns it up to 11: Early iPhone 11 and 11 Pro reviews are in

The release of Apple's new iPhone range is just around the corner, and reviews of the iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max have started popping up, While our review is on the way, here's how Apple's latest monstrous flagship phones have been received in reviews from around the internet.
Nokia 7.2

The $350 Nokia 7.2 is available for pre-order in the U.S.

A post-Pixel 3a world means companies really need to step up their game where midrange phones are concerned, and the Nokia 7.2 is HMD Global's contender. With a triple-lens camera, solid glass build, and Android One software, it's a great looking phone -- especially since it comes with a $350 price tag.
Huawei Mate 20 X 5G

Massive leak shows off all four Huawei Mate 30 phones ahead of official reveal

We weren't meant to see Huawei's new Mate 30 range until September 19 -- but leakers have never worked to someone else's schedule. A leak from Evan Blass has laid bare all four phones in the Mate 30 range, revealing that each has a slightly different design. If you can't wait, here are all of them.
apple iphone 11 available online today hands on jc blue backside 2

Apple iPhone 11 vs. Samsung Galaxy S10e: Which sub-$800 flagship is better?

While it certainly didn't need it, Apple has seen fit to add some upgrades to the iPhone XR in the form of the iPhone 11. With updated specs, a dual-lens camera, and a $699 price, the iPhone 11 is a tempting proposition. But so is the Galaxy S10e, so which should you buy? We found out.
google ar arcore face augmentation and improved cloud anchors mark

Google’s ARCore platform can now track faces, boasts improved memory

It's easy to forget, but augmented reality, or AR, is going to be a huge part of the future. While it's not the glamorous update, Google has just updated ARCore to include facial tracking and augmentation, and improved object permanence through the Cloud Anchor API. These elements will form huge parts of the future.
iPhone 11 colors | Apple September 2019 Event Keynote

Apple’s September 2019 event: Here’s absolutely everything announced

That's all she wrote, folks -- Tim Cook came in like a wrecking ball and bombarded us with a fast series of reveals, including a new iPad, a new Apple Watch, and three incredible new iPhones. But while we're reeling from it all, you've got chance to catch up. Here's everything announced at Apple's September 2019 event.