Tuesday, July 20, 2021

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Google's Wear OS update makes apps easier to find and download

Posted: 20 Jul 2021 03:35 AM PDT

Google has been giving Wear OS some much needed attention of late. In the lead up to the launch of its new smartwatch software collab with Samsung, Google has been focusing on apps. First it made YouTube Music available on Wear OS and now it's making apps easier to find and download. 

As part of a new Play Store update for Android phones and smartwatches, users will see new search filters and category pages on handsets that highlight "watch" apps or "watch faces." You'll also be able to remotely install your chosen software or visuals. 

Meanwhile, the Play Store on Wear OS is getting a new look in keeping with Google's Material You design. The aim is to make navigation more simple in the display's restricted surface area. As a result, Google is placing important info in cards to make it easier to read and make a selection. If you decide to buy, the Play Store will also prompt you to open a purchase page on your Android phone or the web to complete the purchase.

Google said the updates will roll out in the coming weeks to Android phones and watches running Wear OS version 2.x and up.

Amazon's Kindle sale slashes up to 35 percent off its popular e-readers

Posted: 20 Jul 2021 03:05 AM PDT

If you weren't able to snag an e-reader last month during Prime Day, Amazon has a standalone sale on its base Kindle and Paperwhite models that could get you onboard for almost the same price. The biggest discount is on the Kindle Paperwhite (ad-supported), Amazon's waterproof e-reader with a better-contrast display. You can now pick up the 8GB model for $85 (35 percent off the regular $130 price), or $105 for the 32GB model, a savings of $55 or 34 percent. 

Buy Kindle Paperwhite 8GB at Amazon - $85Buy Kindle Paperwhite 32GB at Amazon - $105

The latest Paperwhite is waterproof with an IPX8 rating, so it can tolerate being immersed in up to two meters of water for as long as an hour — making bathtub or beach reading stress free. We also noted in our review that it has a better-contrast display than previous models and offers both Audible and Bluetooth support. The drawbacks are the lack of MP3 and text-to-speech support, along with a high price — but this sale takes some sting off the latter. 

Amazon is offering up to 35 percent off its Kindle e-readers
Engadget

If it's a standard Kindle you're after (above), we have good news there, too. The regular ad-supported model is on sale for $60, a discount of $30 from the regular $90 price. If you need one for the younger set, you can pick up the Kindle Kids Edition for $70, for a savings of 36 percent or $40. 

Buy Kindle at Amazon - $60Buy Kindle Kids Edition at Amazon - $70

The latest Kindle models offer a lot for that price, including an LED-lit screen, weeks of reading time and a touch interface. The Kids Edition adds some perks, like one of four colorful cases, a two-year worry-free guarantee and a year of complimentary access to the company's FreeTime Unlimited service. 

Unlike the Paperwhite, the Kindle isn't water-resistant and offers a lower-density 167ppi (rather than 300ppi) display. If you're not fussy about those things, however, you can put the extra money saved toward your library of books. 

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

Apple reportedly delays office return as US COVID-19 cases rise

Posted: 20 Jul 2021 02:35 AM PDT

Apple bosses had been pushing for employees to get back into the office in September, but they may have changed their tune due to a resurgence in COVID-19 cases. According to Bloomberg, the tech giant is delaying its return-to-office deadline by about a month and won't be expecting employees to start working out of its facilities again until October at the earliest. It's reportedly a response to the recent uptick in coronavirus cases due to the spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant in the US and around the world.

The tech giant originally wanted to implement a hybrid workplace arrangement starting in September, wherein most employees will be expected to show up at the office for three days a week at a minimum. "Video conference calling has narrowed the distance between us, to be sure, but there are things it simply cannot replicate," Tim Cook reportedly wrote in an internal email.

As The Verge reports, staff members tried to push back and sent the company a letter asking it to rethink its "location-flexible work policy" and to embrace remote work for the sake of inclusion and diversity. However, Apple execs insisted back then that "in-person collaboration is essential to [the company's] culture and... future." 

Bloomberg notes that Apple is one of the first tech giants is the US to delay its return to office. Google announced that it's adopting a hybrid work week back in May, but it expects 20 percent of its workforce to continue working from home full time. As for Facebook, CEO Mark Zuckerberg previously said that he expects 50 percent of his employees to work from home within the next five to ten years. While Apple doesn't have a new data for its hybrid workplace implementation, Bloomberg's sources said that the company will give employees a month's notice in advance before they're expected to go back to work in the office. 

Peloton launches its first exercise game for connected bike owners

Posted: 20 Jul 2021 02:08 AM PDT

Ring Fit Adventure for the Switch was a reminder that people like gamified workouts. Now, Peloton is jumping in to the arena with its first fitness game titled "Lanebreak." The rhythm-based game is available on the fitness company's stationary bikes and has a simple setup: Players control a rolling tire on a track by pedalling and switching lanes with the resistance knob in the face of multiple obstacles. This being Peloton, the entire game is synchronized to a music soundtrack. It will all look very familiar to anyone who's played procedurally-generated music racer Audiosurf.

Lanebreak is the culmination of months of trials that saw select users playing mini games in two-week pilots. The idea is to export some of the core mechanics of gaming, chiefly rewards and progression, to incentivize Peloton members to exercise more. Music, according to Peloton, acts as the DNA that links its regular exercise classes with its new game in a bid to acclimatize novice players. For now, Lanebreak is still in early access mode with a full launch planned for this winter.

The challenge is that there are plenty of fitness gaming rivals in the wild, though few have the brand recognition to match Peloton. Zwift, for instance, offers an app with multiplayer cycling and running in a virtual world that users can interact with using their personal treadmill or bike trainer. While VR workout software Supernatural transports you to exotic settings for its Beat Saber-style routines.

Deezer's 360 degree audio comes to Sony Reality Audio speakers

Posted: 20 Jul 2021 01:00 AM PDT

With its 360 by Deezer app, Deezer decided to adopt Sony's 360 Reality audio format rather than Dolby Atmos. That format delivers surround sound not just on headphones but Chromecast-enabled speakers like, say, Sony's 360-enabled SRS-RA5000 and RA3000 models. Now, Deezer has announced that it is supporting those two very models with its new casting feature. 

If you subscribe to Deezer's premium HiFi tier and own either the Sony RA5000 or RA3000, you'll just need to get the latest 360 by Deezer app, pick a track and select the "cast" button in the top right hand corner. Though it's just a single speaker, you'll here different parts of the song as different independent sound "objects," Deezer said, with vocals and instruments "placed in positions in a virtual auditorium to create a truly immersive experience for the listener." 

Deezer originally launched the app in 2019 with 1,000 tracks, and said that library is growing with new albums from David Bowie, Doja Cat and Alicia Keyes. You can now find dedicated 360 editorial playlists in the app's recommendation page, including Deezer's "360 Sessions" playlist with live performances from Dua Lipa, Anne-Marie, Circa Waves and others. 

Sony's 360 Reality Audio was already available on the RA5000 and RA3000 speakers via Chromecast on Amazon Music and Tidal. Now that it's on Deezer as well, Sony has a pretty solid base of streaming services using its surround sound tech.

Google extends Pixel 4 XL's repair warranty for a year in some regions

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 11:32 PM PDT

Google will fix your Pixel 4 XL phone for free for up to a year after your warranty expires, provided you live in the US, Singapore, Canada, Japan and Taiwan. The tech giant has launched an extended repair program for the larger version of its 2019 flagship device, which features motion gesture support and built-in radar. Google stopped selling the Pixel 4 and the Pixel 4 XL from its own store in August 2020, but they're still available from retail partners until supplies last. While this program can get you free repairs if you're in one of the eligible regions, it only covers specific power-related issues.

In particular, the issues must be related to not being able to switch on your phone and to having trouble charging with an adapter or a wireless charger. If your phone keeps restarting or shutting down without you doing it or if your battery drains significantly faster than before, you could get free repair under the program, as well. In Canada, Japan and Taiwan, you could even get a free replacement. That said, you can't get a free repair or replacement if you purchased your device from Australia, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy Spain or the UK, even if you're in one of the eligible locations.

Make sure to check Google's FAQ page for more information on how you can take advantage of the program in your location. In the US, you'd have to bring your device to a uBreakiFix location or access Google's repair center website to start the process.

GM announces third electric pickup after the Hummer and Silverado EVs

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 08:23 PM PDT

GM is working on another electric pickup truck in addition to GMC's Hummer EV and the electrified Chevrolet Silverado it confirmed back in April. The automotive giant has made the announcement at a media event, according to CNBC and CNET Roadshow. It didn't reveal a lot of details about the project and only showed a shadowy image of a tarp-covered truck during the presentation, but it did say that it would be a full-size GMC pickup.

Also, CNBC says it's expected to be a more "traditional" pickup than the Hummer EV, which is a "lifestyle" vehicle. That could mean that it's something priced within the reach of more people than the Hummer is, though GMC global head Duncan Aldred reportedly refused to admit whether it's the electrified version of the Sierra pickup. 

General Motors has been pledging more and more money into efforts to go electric and driverless. The automaker originally planned to pour $20 billion into the endeavor, but it announced that it would raise its 2020-to-2025 investment to $35 billion just this April. GM plans to offer 30 EVs on the market by the end of 2025 and to exclusively sell electric vehicles starting in 2035. 

The Hummer EV is slated to go into production this fall and would be one of first electric pickups people can buy. With prices that begin at around $80,000, though, it's not exactly a direct competitor to other upcoming electric trucks. Tesla's Cybertruck and Ford's F-150 Lightning will cost about half that, and this mysterious third electric truck might be more of competition for them.

Tom Clancy’s XDefiant is a free-to-play, team-based FPS

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 01:51 PM PDT

Ubisoft is delving deeper into the Clancyverse with Tom Clancy's XDefiant, a free-to-play game it revealed on Monday. The first-person multiplayer shooter will pit teams of six characters (or Defiants) against each other across several game modes. There's a focus on gunplay, though you'll also be able to harness traits, abilities and "ultras" — which seem similar to ultimates in other games — based on the faction you're using.

XDefiant is a bit of a crossover between Ubisoft's various Clancy franchises. The initial set of factions include the Wolves (inspired by Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon), Echelon (Splinter Cell) and the Outcasts and Cleaners (The Division). More Defiants will be added to the game later, and will draw from a variety of characters and abilities "from the Tom Clancy universe … and beyond," Ubisoft said.

Ubisoft San Francisco is developing XDefant, which the creative leads said features "fast-paced firefights meet punk rock moshpits." You can customize your Defiant's loadout (including a primary and secondary weapons, attachments and device). You'll be able to modify your setup when you respawn to help you adjust to what's happening in a match. It sounds like there will be ways for both casual and competitive players to get the most out of the game too.

There are clear echoes of Overwatch and Valorant here, with plenty Clancyverse flavor thrown in. Executive producer Mark Rubin previously worked on Infinity Ward's Call of Duty games, and there's some obvious DNA from that franchise in XDefiant as well.

XDefiant is coming to Xbox One, PlayStation, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC, Google Stadia, Amazon Luna and Ubisoft Connect with full cross-play expected at the outset. The game's still fairly early in development, but Ubisoft's already inviting the public to try it. The first public PC test starts on August 5th, and you can sign up through the XDefiant website for a chance to take part.

Apple rolls out iOS 14.7 with MagSafe Battery Pack support for iPhone 12

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 12:23 PM PDT

Starting today, everyone with a compatible iPhone can update their device to iOS 14.7. The latest public release of the firmware adds a few useful but relatively minor features, such as support for the new MagSafe Battery Pack on iPhone 12. There's an option to merge two Apple Cards into a co-owned account with a combined credit limit.

The Home app now has a way to manage HomePod timers, while users in Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, South Korea and Spain will now see air quality info in Weather and Maps. On the audio front, there's a filter in the Podcasts library that allows you to see all shows or only the ones you follow. You can update your iPhone to iOS 14.7 by opening the Settings app, tapping General and then Software Update.

Apple will likely release iOS 15 in a couple of months. It's saving big upcoming features such as FaceTime on PC and Android, revamped notifications and driver's license storage in Apple Wallet for that update.

Elsewhere, tvOS 14.7 is now available, bringing general performance and stability boosts to Apple TV. Apple Watch users in 30 more countries can now use the ECG app after Apple released watchOS 7.6.

PS4 'cryptofarm' reportedly used bots to grind in-game FIFA currency

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 11:26 AM PDT

Earlier this month, officials in the Ukraine busted what appeared to be a cryptocurrency mining operation that used thousands of PS4 consoles to mine crypto. That doesn't quite seem to be the case. According to a new report, the consoles (and allegedly stolen electricity) were actually being used to farm and sell digital currency and accounts for EA's FIFA games.

Ukranian news outlet Delo reported that PCs were running bots on the consoles to play FIFA and automatically earn an in-game currency. Players can use FIFA coins in the Ultimate Team (FUT) mode to either scoop up sought-after players on an open market or open controversial FUT packs in the hopes of unlocking killer additions for their squads. FUT packs can also be opened with real money.

Although buying or selling FIFA coins with real money is against EA policies, that hasn't stopped a thriving black market for the digital currency. People sell coins or game accounts loaded with the currency to players who are desperate to build a dream FUT roster. One site I checked listed a PS4 FIFA 21 account with 5.1 million coins for $300.

Ultimate Team modes across EA's sports games are enormously important for the developer's bottom line. Last year, EA made $1.62 billion from Ultimate Team, which accounted for 29 percent of its net revenue for the fiscal year. "A substantial portion" of that revenue came from FIFA games.

Meanwhile, FUT packs and other loot boxes have drawn scrutiny from regulators in recent years. Since gamers can't see which soccer players they'll unlock when they buy a pack, some authorities have described the packs as a form of gambling. Belgium banned that type of game mechanic in 2018. This summer, perhaps in an attempt to stave off the criticism, EA started testing a type of FUT pack that allows players to preview the contents.

Watch Ubisoft reveal a new Tom Clancy game at 2PM ET

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 10:30 AM PDT

Ubisoft isn't pinning all its Tom Clancy game strategy on Rainbow Six Extraction. The company is revealing a new Tom Clancy game at 2PM Eastern, and you can watch the premiere here through the video below. The company didn't say much in advance beyond calling it a "wild" experience, but a brief clip (also below) has already spoke volumes about what to expect.

For a start, this doesn't appear to be The Division Heartland. Instead, this would be a competitive team multiplayer shooter that looks like it's set in The Division's take on New York City, complete with killstreaks and an escort objective. It's not necessarily piggybacking on existing hot games like Valorant, but we also wouldn't count on a completely original take. This is the company that belatedly hopped on the battle royale bandwagon with Hyper Scape, after all.

Ubisoft had hinted that multiple The Division-related games were in the pipeline. In that regard, this mystery title is just one part of a much larger planned wave. It's just a question of whether or not these early projects will be popular enough to justify the rest.

Uber expands its grocery delivery service to more than 400 US cities and towns

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 09:26 AM PDT

Uber has announced the first major expansion of its grocery delivery service in the US. The company is more than doubling the number of service areas this week to north of 400 cities and towns. It now serves several major markets through the Uber and Uber Eats apps, including San Francisco, New York City and Washington DC.

The rapid expansion was partly fueled by a partnership with Albertsons Companies and its 1,200 grocery stores across the country. Albertsons owns brands including Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Acme, Tom Thumb and Randalls. Uber also offers delivery from regional chains such as Southeastern Grocers and New York's Red Apple Group. Uber Pass and Eats Pass subscribers don't need to pay delivery fees on grocery orders over $30.

Grocery delivery became an important component of Uber's business during the toughest parts of the COVID-19 pandemic, because the number of rides people were taking dropped significantly. The company is also dealing with a driver shortage that led to higher prices for rides. Uber bought several delivery startups over the last couple of years to fuel its growth in that sector, such as Cornershop, Postmates and Drizly.

WhatsApp now lets you join in-progress group calls

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 09:00 AM PDT

WhatsApp group calls are about to behave more like Zoom calls and other more free-form chats. The company has started rolling out the ability to join group calls in progress, rather than having to be there (and stay) when the call starts. You can drop in and out at will as long as you were invited at the beginning.

There's also a call information screen to show who's participating in and invited to a chat. Also, don't worry if you have to hit "ignore" for a call — the door will still be open if you want to join later.

The addition is a recognition that Zoom and other more flexible video chat services are still popular even as the pandemic (hopefully) winds down. WhatsApp is also acknowledging that some people have always had different video chat habits — this could make the service more appealing if you've always left a video chat running so that friends could pop in when they have a moment.

Android TV gets new Google TV features

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 09:00 AM PDT

When Google introduced a new TV overlay last year, it promised to bring a modern interface to Chromecast and subsequently launched devices. It also caused a lot of confusion over what would happen to the Android TV operating system, which powers hundreds of models of streaming sticks, TV sets and more. Those older devices didn't get the new Google TV interface, but the company did begin to roll out some updates that made Android TV look more similar to the new layout, including a refreshed appearance and a Discover tab. Today, Google is adding new tools to Android TV to make it feel more like Google TV: Watchlist, recommendation tuning and detail pages.

With this update, you can now add titles to your watchlist across the Android TV system, either by long-pressing on your selection and hitting "Add to Watchlist" or pressing the Watchlist option in the show's detail page. You can also add to the list from your phone or laptop via Google Search or in the TV app. Your saved items will appear in a row on the Discover tab. 

The company also tweaked the detail pages of each show by adding trailers that autoplay when you dive deeper into each title, similar to how services like Netflix are set up. You can turn these off in the Settings (under Home Screen in Device Preferences by deactivating "Enable video previews"). 

An image showing the new Android TV Tune Your Recommendations feature. The screen shows an off-kilter thumbnail of the movie
Google

You'll also find a new way to tell Google what shows you like (and hate) in the Home Screen settings — look for Content Preferences and scroll through the titles that show up. Additionally, there's a card in the Discover tab that says "Improve your recommendations" that will let you tune your preferences too, and you can choose between "More like this" or "Less like this" for each show. Once you're done, the system will update its suggestions for you in the Discover page.

Those already using a Chromecast with Google TV will find these features familiar, and those with older Android TV devices don't have to wait long to get them. Google said the updates will arrive on Android TV devices "beginning this week."

CNN+ streaming service will offer live and on-demand content in early 2022

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 08:37 AM PDT

The rumors of a CNN streaming service were true. The network has unveiled a CNN+ service that will offer a blend of live and on-demand shows that are "separate and distinct" from existing TV coverage. It will debut sometime in the first quarter of 2022. CNN hasn't narrowed down the price, but lead executive Andrew Morse told Variety in an interview that there wouldn't be an ad-supported tier at launch.

The centerpiece, as you'd expect, will be the live material. CNN+ plans to offer eight to 12 hours of in-depth topical coverage and "lifestyle" material every day, with both veterans and newcomers at the helm. You'll also have chances to interact with anchors and experts in real-time discussions. This won't be a digital replica of CNN's usual news, then, but you may have reasons to tune in every day.

The on-demand catalog unsurprisingly taps into CNN's existing collection, including shows like Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown and United Shades of America. There will be original shows and movies for the internet service, although CNN+ won't reveal those until later in 2021.

Officially, Morse said CNN+ wouldn't be bundled or otherwise tie into HBO Max despite the WarnerMedia connection. Variety sources, however, claimed there was a "strong probability" the service would be bundled with HBO Max and Discovery+ after WarnerMedia and Discovery finalize their merger.

Morse considered the CNN+ launch the largest the network has had since it started TV service in June 1980. It was also a chance to experiment with formats that blur distinctions between entertainment and news, the executive added.

The question, of course, is whether or not viewers will bite. CNN has had success with long-form content like the late Anthony Bourdain's shows, but it's not clear if people are ready to pay a monthly fee to see them. There's also the matter of streaming service overload — you might not be thrilled to subscribe to yet another offering just to be sure you catch everything CNN has to offer.

Dish will pay AT&T $5 billion to serve its mobile customers

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 08:16 AM PDT

AT&T is set to provide voice, data and messaging services to Dish's Boost Mobile, Ting and Republic Wireless customers for the next 10 years. Dish plans to pay AT&T at least $5 billion as part of the deal, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

To serve customers of both companies, AT&T may be able to use parts of the wireless spectrum to which Dish holds licences, as The Wall Street Journal notes. Before now, T-Mobile provided services to the nearly 9 million customers of Dish's mobile brands.

The deal might draw the attention of regulators, who enabled Dish to join the mobile market when it approved the merger between T-Mobile and Sprint. The conditions of the complex deal included T-Mobile divesting Boost. The plan was for Dish to rent services from T-Mobile for seven years while it built its own mobile network. 

Warby Parker's vision test app can help renew your glasses prescription

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 08:00 AM PDT

You might not have to visit an optometrist just to get a basic prescription update for your glasses. Warby Parker is trotting out Virtual Vision Test, a revamp of its Prescription Check app that lets you renew your glasses or contact lens prescription using only an iPhone and your existing eyewear. Prop up your phone, stand 10 feet away and you can walk through a familiar "can you read this" test that will gauge whether or not your glasses or contacts need updating.

The update isn't automatic. An eye doctor will review the results and give you a verdict within two days. If you're seeing well enough, you'll just need to pay $15 to renew your prescription. If you're either struggling or just aren't eligible to use the app (see below), Warby Parker will recommend that you get a thorough eye exam.

The company is clear that this isn't a replacement for your eye doctor, and that you'll have to meet certain criteria beyond what we just mentioned. You have to be between 18 and 65 years old, with no existing eye health concerns and a single-vision distance prescription.

The approach relies on iOS' Vision Framework to measure your distance from your iPhone and ensure that you're far enough away from a proper test. We've asked Warby Parker about an Android version, although that might take a while given that it would need a rough equivalent to Vision Framework.

The motivations behind Virtual Vision Test are clear — on top of the renewal fee, this could lead to more people buying Warby Parker glasses and visiting the company's stores. Regardless, it could be very useful if you either can't make time to update your prescription or are still skittish about a visit while COVID-19 remains a concern.

The best gadgets for students under $50

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 07:30 AM PDT

The little things can get you when you're in college. You arrive on campus, fresh and ready to go, but before you know it, you're a few weeks into the new semester and you have a long list of small things you forgot to pack and need to buy ASAP. We at Engadget also know from experience that there are unassuming gadgets that can make your collegiate life easier. To help you get ahead of the game, we've compiled the best items under $50 so you can get the most crucial ones off your list before you even set foot on campus.

Anker PowerExtend Cube USB-C power strip

Basic two-receptacle wall outlets just don't cut it anymore now that we all have a small army of devices that we rely on every day. A power strip like Anker's PowerExtend will become a necessity for students as it gives them more power options than what comes standard in their dorm rooms. This cube has two USB-A ports, one 30W USB-C socket and three AC outlets, giving you more ways to keep your laptop, phone, tablet, headphones and other devices charged up. The five-foot cable is another perk as it prevents you from needing to hug the wall of the library in order to get things done. Also, it weighs just 9.2 ounces so you can bring it with you whenever you need your own personal charging station.

Buy PowerExtend strip at Amazon - $40

Incase Bionic accessories organizer

Staying organized is key to staying sane while in school, and that's true for both your digital and physical essentials. For the latter, Incase's Bionic Accessory Organizer is just the right size to act as both a pencil case and an "everything else" holder. It has a number of pen loops inside for those that prefer to take handwritten notes, but it also has a bunch of variously sized pockets that can easily hold things like your portable hard drive, an extra phone charger and even a compact wireless mouse. And, unlike those cheap pencil cases you'll find at the dollar store, this one's made of ocean-recycled material that's equivalent to seven plastic bottles.

Buy Bionic accessory organizer at Incase - $50

Lention 4-in-1 USB-C hub

Your brand new laptop might be blazing fast and super lightweight, but it probably doesn't have as many ports as you'd like. Such is the trade-off companies make when creating powerful thin-and-light machines, leaving us stuck living the dongle life. But it doesn't have to be so painful if you get the right adapter for your laptop. Lention's 4-in-1 USB-C hub is a great option for students. It's compact, measuring 3 x 1.4 inches, and it includes three USB-A ports and one USB-C connection. That should let you connect accessories like mice and keyboards, and even access files on a thumb drive when you're working on a group project. The USB-C port is for charging only, but that's not necessarily a downside — you can use it with your laptop's power adapter and USB-C cable to power your machine while using the adapter at the same time.

Buy Lention 4-in-1 hub at Amazon - $20

Anker PowerLine II USB-C to Lightning cable (10-foot)

When you're a student, there's nothing worse than realizing your iPhone is down to 2 percent battery when you're in the middle of submitting an assignment online. The charging cable that came with your phone has probably served you well, but having a second, longer cable can allow you to power up in dire situations even when the closest outlet is across the room. We've been fans of Anker's Powerline series for a long time, and this 10-foot USB-C to Lightning cable is worth investing in. Not only is it MFi-certified so it will work well with all Apple devices, but its length gives you much more flexibility than your standard three-foot cable does. It also supports fast charging if you have an appropriately powerful adapter to use it with. And for those who don't have iPhones, Anker has a 10-foot USB-C to C cable that should serve your handsets well, too.

Buy Powerline II USB-C to Lightning cable at Amazon - $23

Apple AirTag

We're all familiar with the panic that ensues when you realize you've misplaced your keys, wallet, phone or other valuables. There are plenty of gadgets that can help you find those items, but AirTags are arguably the best for those who live in Apple's ecosystem. Like most Apple accessories, setting up AirTags is as easy as placing them in close proximity to your iPhone and figuring out how you want to attach them to your belongings (and you don't have to shell out a lot of money for fancy key rings to do so). After that, if you do lose your stuff, you can use your phone to force the AirTag to emit a loud chime. And if you're still within Bluetooth range, Apple's Precision Finding feature can literally guide you back to your belongings. If you don't own an iPhone, you can skip the AirTags and opt for one of Tile's many Bluetooth trackers to get a similar experience.

Buy AirTag at Amazon - $29

SanDisk Dual Drive Go

While you may be used to saving your assignments in the cloud, it can't hurt to have local copies as backups. SanDisk's Dual Drive Go is a tiny thumb drive with both USB-C and USB-A connectors, so you can download and save important programs, files, photos and other documents from almost any device. It works with laptops, tablets and smartphones, and it even has a companion app that can automatically backup your files so you always have the most up-to-date version on hand. We appreciate the dual USB connectivity, the device's tiny size and its affordable price — you can grab a 256GB model for only $30 to $40.

Buy SanDisk Dual Drive Go at Amazon - $30

Amazon Echo Dot (4th-gen)

The Echo Dot is Amazon's most popular smart speaker for a reason: It's small, it sounds pretty good for its size, and it does a lot more than just play music. Students will like the fact that it won't take up much space on their desks and they can ask Alexa to play music from Spotify, Apple Music and others whenever they want to have an impromptu dorm-room dance party. And, since it plugs into a wall outlet, they never have to remember to charge the Echo Dot like they would with a portable speaker. What's more, when an assignment stumps them, students can consult Alexa for help. Are we suggesting they ask Alexa for the answers to all their homework conundrums? Not exactly. But the voice assistant's answers could give them a good starting point for further research.

Buy Echo Dot at Amazon - $50

Anozer tablet stand

Whether you're studying, attending a virtual class or watching a movie, it's crucial to have your device of choice at a comfortable viewing angle. Anozer's phone and tablet stand is a sturdy yet unassuming solution: It's height and angle adjustable, its metal-weighted base with rubber feet helps it stay in place, and it can be folded flat so it's easily portable. We also appreciate its silicone covered pad and rubber hooks that keep your phone or tablet from slipping and sliding around. It's a must-have for anyone who primarily uses mobile devices to complete their schoolwork.

Buy Anozer stand at Amazon - $15

Manta Sleep Mask

Sleep can be hard to come by in college. Sometimes you may have to cram late into the night to prepare for an exam, but other times you'll be subjected to the whims of others as they galavant around your dorm room as if classes and projects simply don't exist. When you need to shut out the world in the hopes of catching a few ZZZs, Manta's sleep mask could be a lifesaver. We like its adjustable eye cups that block out nearly 100 percent of light. The headband is adjustable as well; you can tighten or loosen the mask to your liking. And if it becomes indispensable to you, Manta sells different types of eye cups that you can switch out when you want relief from migraines or a bit more TLC for your skin. We also recommend completing the "do not disturb" bundle with a good pair of earplugs that block out audible annoyances when you're trying to sleep.

Buy Manta sleep mask at Amazon - $30

RAVPower 20,000mAh charger

It goes without saying that a portable way to recharge your phone is essential nowadays. Even better is a battery pack that's capable of charging all of your devices, including your laptop. RAVPower's 20,000mAh portable charger does just this — it's 60W output allows it to juice up machines like a MacBook Pro from 0 to 60 percent in just one hour. And if you've got your laptop covered, it can power your tablet, smartphone, headphones and other gadgets quickly as well. Just before publishing this article, RAVPower's charger went up in price to $54, but even if it's a bit more expensive than our original threshold, we still think it's worth the investment.

Buy 20,000mAh 60W portable charger at RAVPower - $54

USB desk fan

Dorm rooms can be insufferably hot throughout the school year, and there are few things worse than sweating when you're trying to study. A gadget to help circulate air is a necessity and this USB desk fan is small and quiet enough to work in almost any environment. It doesn't take up much space on a desk and its nearly four-foot-long cable makes it easy to plug into a power source — probably your laptop since it's likely to be close by while studying, but it could also be a USB adapter connected to an AC outlet or even a portable battery pack. The fan also has three speeds and the head can be angled to direct air at your face or anywhere else you want it.

Buy desk fan at Amazon - $12

Brita filter bottle

The environmental reasons for carrying a reusable water bottle are clear, and hydration is important for everyone — not only students. Brita's is a good option because it's made of BPA-free plastic, comes in 26- and 36-ounce capacities, has a leak-proof lid and uses a filter straw to make the water you drink from it just like the water you'd get from a larger Brita container. And no, you won't have to spend too much on replaceable filters either. The company recommends changing your bottle's filter every two months, and a pack of three filters will run you only about $12.

Buy Brita water filter bottle at Amazon - $20

Amazon one-day-only sale knocks up to 35 percent off Anker charging gadgets

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 07:11 AM PDT

If you've been shopping for portable chargers and other power accessories, it's worth checking out an Anker sale on Amazon, which is running today only. Many of the brand's products have been discounted by up to 35 percent in the sale. Among them is a bundle that includes a PowerCore III Elite 25600 60W portable charger, PowerPort III 65W Pod wall charger, USB-C to USB-C cable and travel pouch.

Buy Anker PowerCore III Elite 25600 bundle on Amazon - $110

You can charge up to three devices at once via a 60W USB-C port and dual 18W USB ports. The 25,600mAh capacity should be enough to recharge an iPhone 12 at least five times over and a Samsung Galaxy S21 at least four times, Anker suggests. The bundle is currently down from $160 to $110.

Buy Anker Power Strip with USB C on Amazon - $26

Elsewhere, you'll be able to pick up a PowerPort Strip PD 2 Mini power strip for $26, down from $36. The hub will allow you to power and charge five devices simultaneously through a USB-C port, two PowerIQ-enabled USB charging ports and a pair of AC outlets.

Buy Anker PowerWave Sense 2-in-1 Stand on Amazon - $30

You can also save on the handy PowerWave Sense 2-in-1 Stand, which will let you wirelessly charge any Qi-enabled phone. You don't necessarily need to remove your phone case, according to Anker. As long as it's less than five millimeters thick and isn't a magnetic or MagSafe case, the device should still charge your phone. You can simultaneously charge an Apple Watch (Series 1-6 and SE) using the stand, which is currently down from $43 to $30. You can check out the rest of the products Anker has on sale today through its Amazon store page.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

White House blames China for Microsoft Exchange cyberattacks

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 06:20 AM PDT

The Biden administration isn't hesitating to blame China for a string of Microsoft Exchange cyberattacks. The White House has declared "with a high degree of confidence" that hackers linked to China's Ministry of State Security (MSS) were responsible for a digital espionage campaign using the Exchange vulnerabilities. Officials have confronted senior Chinese leadership with this and "broader" hostile online activity, the White House said.

The US further accused China of running an intelligence operation that relied on "contract hackers" who frequently launched attacks meant solely for profit, such as ransomware schemes and crypto jacking. The Chinese government's reported unwillingness to tackle these abuses is believed to hurt businesses, governments and infrastructure with "billions of dollars" in damage, the White House said.

Accordingly, the Justice Department has revealed indictments of four MSS-affiliated Chinese men for allegedly conducting an extended hacking campaign meant to steal intellectual property and trade secrets, including health research. The initiative, which ran between 2011 and 2018, reportedly saw Ding Xiaoyang, Cheng Qingmin, Zhu Yunmin and Wu Shurong compromise comptuers worldwide to grab information ranging from autonomous vehicle technology and chemical formulas through to research on Ebola, AIDS and other diseases.

Biden's administration has already taken multiple actions in response to attacks, including "proactive network defense actions" like deleting backdoors on compromised Exchange servers. It added private companies to its Unified Coordination Group to bolster its security incident response. CISA, the FBI and the NSA also released an advisory outlining China's strategy for compromising US and ally networks using the Exchange holes and other methods.

This comes on top of stricter security rules for pipeline companies as well as a pilot to tackle vulnerabilities in sectors like electricity and water supply.

China has historically denied involvement in attacks like these, and it's doubtful the country will have a change of heart after this. The White House effort is more of a warning — the US will not only pin attacks on China, but respond to them in kind.

Italian museum uses cameras to gauge the attractiveness of art

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 06:10 AM PDT

We've seen augmented reality bring art to the great outdoors, but Italy's museums are now using cameras to measure the appeal of paintings instead. The country's agency for R&D has developed a new system that can measure how long you look at and how close you get to a work of art. ENEA's cameras are placed in the vicinity of artworks to collect data on the amount of observers and their behavior as they stare at the pieces. The collated info defines the "attraction value" of works of art, the researchers behind it told Bloomberg.

More broadly, the so-called ShareArt system is viewed as a way of boosting visitors to museums and galleries after a period of disruptive lockdowns. It could ultimately be used to give certain works more prominence in a collection. The data could also result in changes to the staging of a piece, including how paintings and sculptures are lit and placed in relation to one another.  

ENEA
ENEA

Though it dates back to 2016, museums like the Istituzione Bologna Musei have only recently begun rolling out the ShareArt system, notes Bloomberg. Thanks to the tech, researchers are already gaining surprising insights into the way we perceive and interact with art. They found that the average artwork observation time is just four to five seconds, with very few pieces capturing visitors' attention for longer than 15 seconds. They add that if mask restrictions are dropped, the system will be able to track facial observations without compromising privacy, allowing the team to monitor cognitive reactions, too. 

The ShareArt tool is the latest example of art melding with technology. On the other end of the spectrum, machine learning systems are already mimicking the styles of famous painters and dreaming up psychedelic works of their own. While AR-powered smartphone apps have put entire exhibitions in our pockets.

The best laptops for college students

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 06:06 AM PDT

We're all contending with a return to normalcy, and going back to school likely feels strange yet exciting. Whether you're heading to a physical campus, taking classes online or a mix of both, a laptop is sure to be the control center for your studies.

And things have changed quite a bit over the last year or so. We've seen the introduction of Apple's M1-powered MacBooks, while Microsoft recently unveiled Windows 11. With ARM-based computers teasing a future where the line between mobile and desktop computing is blurry, and Windows 11 working to bridge that gap by supporting Android apps, the laptop market is the most exciting it's been in years.

But that might lead to more questions for shoppers. What should you look out for if you want an ARM-based PC? Will they run Windows 11 when that update is available? What are some key specs you should add to your must-have list this year? We compiled this guide to help you make the right choice, alongside a list of this year's best laptops.

What to look for in a laptop for school (and what to avoid)

First: Windows on ARM still isn't worth it. Snapdragon laptops may look and feel sleek, offer excellent battery life and built-in cellular radios, but they're typically quite expensive, especially considering their limited app compatibility and finicky software. Apple's M1 MacBooks, on the other hand, are great for almost everyone, barring those who need external GPUs, niche software or more than 16GB of RAM.

Over on the Intel side of things, almost every notebook released this year packs an 11th-generation Core processor. You'll likely be able to find a cheaper version of a product with a 10th-gen chip, and it should still serve you well. And don't forget about AMD's Ryzen chips, either — they're plenty powerful and no longer just for the bargain bin. If you're eagerly awaiting the arrival of Windows 11 devices, don't expect to see them before the semester begins. They're more likely to show up in the fall around Microsoft's usual hardware event in October.

Across the industry, companies have shifted to taller aspect ratios for their screens. Surface Laptops sport 3:2 panels, while many Dell and HP models offer 16:10. While the older 16:9 format is nice for watching videos, you'll probably appreciate a taller format when you're writing an essay. Some devices, like Dell's XPS and Samsung's Galaxy Book Pro, come with OLED panels, which will be nice for working with photos and videos. They usually cost more and take a toll on battery life, though, so you'll need to weigh your priorities.

Fortunately, there's a diverse selection of laptops around, so you should be able to find a suitable one regardless of your preferences. Here are our favorite notebooks for your return to schoolwork.

Apple MacBook Air M1

With its speedy performance, slim fanless design and excellent battery life, the MacBook Air M1 is a no-brainer for any Apple user. You'll appreciate familiar features like a Retina display, comfortable keyboard and reliable trackpad. Plus, thanks to the company's excellent Rosetta 2 emulator software, you won't notice a huge performance difference when relying on Intel apps.

The big news, though, is that the ARM-based M1 allows the laptop to run iPhone and iPad apps too. While not every app will be available on macOS, the potential for more options on your desktop here is great. Now you just have to make sure you can keep the distractions at bay — which should be easy with the upcoming Focus modes on macOS Monterey, arriving in its final form later this year.

Unfortunately for those looking for more internal storage or something to run their bespoke video streaming setup, pre-fab MacBook Air M1 laptops top out at 512GB storage (although you can pay extra for up to 2TB) while the Pro M1 only supports up to 16GB of RAM. The MacBook Pro M1 also lacks support for multiple monitors and an external GPU. Those with more demanding workflows might need to look to Windows or an Intel-powered MacBook to ensure app compatibility.

Buy MacBook Air M1 at Amazon - $999

Dell XPS 13

Dell's XPS series has been an Engadget favorite for years. Despite a somewhat plain design that some might call "classic," the XPS 13 still stands out for nailing pretty much everything that matters. Great performance? Check. Gorgeous screen? Yes. Comfortable keyboard? Yep. Throw in a long-lasting battery and a pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports in the latest versions, and you've got a powerful workhorse for all your classes (and more).

The company shifted to a 16:10 aspect ratio in 2020, and recently added a 4K OLED option. That means you'll see greater contrast ratios and deeper blacks for maximum display goodness. The OLED configuration will cost you $300 more than the Full HD LCD option, but those who want the best viewing experience may not mind the premium. We also recommend you spend a little more and get at least the Core i3 model with 8GB of RAM instead of the meager 4GB that the base model offers.

Buy XPS 13 at Dell - $930

Microsoft Surface Laptop 4

If you're looking for an excellent typing experience, look no further than the Surface Laptop 4. Microsoft has been killing it with its recent Surface Laptops keyboards, and this one is no exception. Though they're not as deep and springy as ThinkPads, the buttons here are super responsive and offer ample travel. The roomy trackpad is solid, too.

Of course, it's important that the Surface Laptop 4 deliver on everything else, or we wouldn't recommend it. The 15-inch version that we tested offered breezy performance, respectable battery life and a lovely 3:2 Pixelsense screen that supports Microsoft's Surface Pen input. Though its design is a little staid, the Surface Laptop 4 still has a clean, professional look and a luxurious aluminum case that's sturdy enough to withstand being stuffed in your backpack on the regular. Plus, at 3.4 pounds, it won't burden your shoulders much.

The best thing about the Surface Laptop 4 is that the base model, which comes equipped with AMD's Ryzen 5 processor and 8GB of RAM, starts at $1,000. That rivals the Dell XPS 13, making it a better buy for the value conscious; you get more screen, more power and more RAM for the money. Both the Surface and the XPS are great options, but the latter offers an OLED panel and thinner bezels that make it look more modern.

Buy Surface Laptop 4 at Microsoft - $999

Samsung Galaxy Book Pro

For those whose priority is a lightweight design, the Galaxy Book Pro series should be at the top of your list. At just 2.36 pounds for the clamshell and 3.06 pounds for the convertible model, the 15-inch Galaxy Book Pro is one of the lightest 15-inch laptops around. It's also super thin at 0.46 inches thick, and despite its compact size it manages to house three USB-C ports (one of them supporting Thunderbolt 4), a microSD card reader and a headphone jack.

It also packs an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor and at least 8GB of RAM, along with a 68Whr battery that delivers a similar runtime to the Dell XPS 13 and Surface Laptop 4. That's particularly impressive given the Galaxy Book Pro has a Super AMOLED screen, which offers sumptuous image quality, high contrast ratio and deep blacks. Unfortunately, Samsung is still stuck on a 16:9 screen format, which will feel outdated in a year or two, but is hardly a dealbreaker.

The Galaxy Book Pro's keyboard isn't as comfortable as the Surface Laptop 4's but it's pleasant enough, and the trackpad is enormous. We're more concerned about the odd webcam software that makes you look dark and splotchy, so if looking your best on video calls is of concern you might want to consider something else. Plus, the $1,100 base model comes with an Intel Core i5 chip, 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, making it a competitive offering against the Dell and Surface laptops. Awful camera aside, there's plenty to love about the Galaxy Book Pro, especially for those looking to lighten their loads.

Buy Galaxy Book Pro at Samsung - $999

Acer Chromebook Spin 713

If you're considering saving a few hundred bucks by opting for Chrome OS, the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 might be the right choice. Sure, there are cheaper Chromebooks out there, but it's one of few machines with a 3:2 aspect ratio and has a utilitarian design that makes it perfect for butterfingers.

That price also gets you an 11th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM and sturdy 360-degree hinge so you can set it up in a variety of modes. The 13.5-inch screen is also more pixel-dense than most 1080p displays of the same size. Though the Spin 713 only clocked about 8 hours on our battery test, that's enough to get you through a work day. If $700 feels too expensive for a Chromebook, you could also wait till it inevitably goes on sale to save a bit more. There are sleeker, more powerful Chromebooks available, but Acer's Spin 713 offers a good mix of performance and a modern screen for the money.

Buy Acer Chromebook Spin 713 at Best Buy - $700

Acer Aspire 5

If price is your utmost concern, we recommend the Acer Aspire 5. It's a 15-inch Windows laptop with an AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor, 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage that costs between $400 and $450. Yes, that's less memory than anything else on this list, but it also costs much less than any of our non-Chromebook suggestions.

There's plenty of ports here — including an Ethernet socket — and the aluminum chassis should make this laptop feel more expensive than it is. You'll also appreciate its reliable performance, comfortable keyboard and 1080p display. For the price, the Aspire 5 offers everything you need to get through the school day, making it a great bargain.

Buy Aspire 5 at Acer starting at $399

NVIDIA shows 'Wolfenstein: Youngblood' with RTX ray-tracing on ARM

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 06:00 AM PDT

NVIDIA recently said that it was working with MediaTek to bring RTX graphics to ARM-based laptops, and now it has shown what that might look like for gamers. At the Game Developers Conference (GDC), it unveiled a technical demo with an RTX-powered MediaTek ARM processor running Wolfenstein: Youngblood.

NVIDIA showed off real time ray-traced reflections and DLSS on the game using an ARM-based platform for the first time. It also showed off a demo called Bistro (from Amazon's Lumberyard game engine) running real-time ray-tracing on ARM, with RTX direct illumination (RTXDI) and NVIDIA Optix AI-acceleration denoiser (NRD) features turned on. The demos ran on a MediaTek Kompanio 1200 ARM-based platform combined with a GeForce RTX 3060 GPU.

NVIDIA made the tech work by porting several RTX SDKs to ARM devices. Those include deep learning super sampling (DLSS) to boost sharpness, RTX direct illumination, NVIDIA Optix AI-acceleration denoiser, the RTX memory utility (RTXMU) and RTX global illumination. NVIDIA said that the RTXDI, NRD and RTXMU SDKs for ARM with Linux are now available for developers, with RTXGI and DLSS coming soon.

Of course, you won't get to see any of this until manufacturers add RTX hardware to their ARM-based laptops, Chromebooks or other devices. Game manufacturers will also need to implement the tech for ARM-based games. However, both the Wolfenstein: Youngblood developer and game engine company seem bullish. 

"RTX support for ARM and Linux opens up new opportunities for game developers to provide more immersive experiences on a wider variety of platforms," said Unity's senior technical product manager Mathieu Muller. "An iD Tech-based game running on an ARM CPU with ray tracing enabled is a significant step in a journey that will result in many more gaming platforms being available to all game developers," added Machinegames CTO Jim Kjellin.

Of course, NVIDIA's relationship with ARM is set to get a whole lot closer as it bought the company last year for $40 billion. However, the deal is subject to regulatory approval and NVIDIA rival (and ARM customer) Qualcomm has objected to the deal. On top of that, ARM employees 3,000 people in the UK and that country's regulator is currently investigating the sale. 

Klipsch's newest soundbars offer 8K HDR passthrough and Dolby Atmos

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 06:00 AM PDT

Klipsch has a reputation for futureproof soundbars, and that's certainly true of its latest models. The audio veteran has launched four new soundbars headlined by the tech-friendly Cinema 1200 (above) and Cinema 800 (below). The 54- and 48-inch bars respectively offer 8K HDR passthrough and decoding for 7.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos, not to mention a WiFi connection that supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and Spotify Connect. You'll get a pair of extra HDMI inputs on each bar to help your home theater expand, too.

The differences, as you might expect, come down to raw power. The Cinema 1200 spreads its namesake 1,200W of power across a 5.1.4-channel system with a 12-inch wireless subwoofer, while the Cinema 800 is a simpler 3.1-channel rig with a 10-inch wireless sub.

Klipsch Cinema 800 Sound Bar
Klipsch

Both sound bars are available now, with the Cinema 1200 selling for $1,699 and the 800 going for a more modest $879 price.

There are a pair of options for modest setups and smaller TVs. The 45-inch Cinema 600 delivers 3.1-channel audio with a 10-inch wireless sub and supports modern basics like Dolby Audio, Bluetooth and HDMI-ARC for $499. If you need just the essentials, the 40-inch Cinema 400 provides 2.1-channel sound with an eight-inch wireless sub, Dolby Audio, Bluetooth, and HDMI-ARC. It sells for $299.

Apple's AirPods Pro are back on sale for $190 at Amazon

Posted: 19 Jul 2021 05:30 AM PDT

If you've been waiting for Apple's AirPods Pro to drop below $197 on Amazon, now's your chance to grab them. The wireless earbuds are back on sale for $190, or $60 off their original price. They've been hovering at $197 for months, only dropping to $190 in June for a short period of time. While not an all-time low, it's a good discount for any iPhone user in need of a new pair of earbuds.

Buy AirPods Pro at Amazon - $190

You probably know the deal about AirPods Pro by now, but here's a refresher: they're the best sounding earbuds in Apple's lineup, plus they fit the best in various ear shapes thanks to their interchangeable tips. Sound quality is noticeably better than previous AirPods models, thanks in part to a built-in amplifier and Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes low- and mid-range frequencies to your ears. Active noise-cancellation does a good job blocking out surrounding sounds and the earbuds' touch controls let you quickly enter Transparency Mode whenever you need to hear the world around you.

But the AirPods Pro carved out a spot on our favorite wireless earbuds list because of how easy they are to use with other Apple products. The H1 chip inside allows them to pair and switch easily between iPhones, iPads and Macs, so you can go from taking a call on your iPhone to listening to music from your Mac pretty seamlessly. We also like their hands-free Siri feature, which lets you call upon the voice assistant without tapping the earbuds.

AirPods Pro are one of the best pairs of earbuds you can get if you live in the Apple ecosystem — but there are other options, too. If you care more about sound quality or ANC power, both the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Jabra Elite 85t are good alternatives.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.
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