Google’s now being sued for its misleading Location History description

Google is reportedly in violation of California’s Invasion of Privacy Act.

A little over a week ago, a report came out targeting Google for misleading wording for its Location History feature. The company’s support site previously noted that “With Location History off, the places you go are no longer stored”, but even so, various Google apps/services still had permission to track your whereabouts.

The company later updated its wording to indicate that users also need to disable Web and Activity Data in order to block other Google apps from tracking their location, but that hasn’t stopped one San Francisco resident from suing Google.

The man behind the lawsuit is Napoleon Patacsil, and with this suit, he’s claiming that Google’s violating both California’s Invasion of Privacy Act and the general right to privacy that exists in the state.

Patascsil’s lawsuit includes classes for Android and iPhone users alike, meaning that should this go through, it has the potential to impact millions of people all across the United States.

Google’s yet to publically respond to this lawsuit, but seeing as how the company previously had a response to defend itself when this news first came up, don’t be surprised if this fizzles out into nothing.

Whatever happens, we’ll be sure to keep you in the loop.

How to stop your Android phone from sharing your location with Google

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 vs. Galaxy Note 5: Should you upgrade?

It’s time to move on, but do you stay with a Note or go elsewhere?

The Galaxy Note 5 was the biggest and best Samsung had to offer in 2015, with its hardware design in particular being a massive upgrade from the Note 4. But it’s three years old now, and if you were willing to hold off from an upgrade to the Note 8 last year you’re probably really getting the itch to check out the new Note 9 now.

If you’ve liked using a Note 5 for three years, you’re probably thinking that a move to the latest Note makes sense — but a lot has changed in the last three years, and there are other phones out there worthy of your attention if you’re willing to break away from the S Pen. Here’s what you need to keep in mind when you’re getting ready to take the leap.

Reasons to upgrade to the Galaxy Note 9

When you’re looking at upgrading from a three-year-old phone, even a high-end one like the Note 5, there are some easy wins to be had. The Galaxy Note 9 hasn’t dramatically changed the game in any specific area, but three years of further development on all the components that make up a high-end smartphone make it a better device in every way. The Snapdragon 845 processor and 6GB of RAM are dramatically faster than the Exynos 7420 and 4GB — you may not think the Note 5 is slow or lacking for performance, but just wait until you get the Note 9 in your hands. Even more important for a Note power user is the battery, which has jumped a full 1000mAh, up to 4000mAh, and when paired with the new processor offers dramatically better longevity.

You’ll immediately notice the performance and battery life improvements.

Most Note 5s came with just 32GB of internal storage, which was a lot for 2015 — but now, the base Note 9 has four times as much storage. And some may forget that the Note 5 came from that dreaded time when Samsung removed the microSD card slot. It came back in the next generation, and is still here today on the Note 9.

The cameras, too, have made a massive improvement since 2015. The Note 9’s pair of cameras may not be dramatically better at first glance, but daylight photos are much crisper with a wider dynamic range and less forced-looking post-processing. Low light is an entirely different league altogether, with the larger sensor and f/1.5 aperture running circles around what was already a fantastic camera three years ago. The secondary camera also gives you lossless 2X zoom, which is actually a unique way to shoot.

If you’re still loving your Note 5, you’ll be even happier staying in the family with a Note 9.

But much of these upgrades can be found in any 2018 phone you may be looking at. The real reason why you’re going to be looking at a Note 9 is that it’s the latest and greatest Galaxy Note. It’s familiar in terms of build quality and software, but it’s also the only smartphone you can buy today that has the same S Pen stylus you probably bought the Note 5 for in the first place. The S Pen has added new wireless functionality to keep things interesting, but the core experience remains — that means you won’t skip a beat with taking notes, drawing and annotating. Familiarity is incredibly important, and that’s extremely true when it comes to having a stylus or not.

One thing to keep in mind in all of this is the future of the Note 5 itself. The Note 5 finally received an Oreo update in 2018, but this is the last platform update you can expect on the phone. If you want to get any of the newest features Samsung is working on, while keeping your S Pen, you’ll have to move up to the Note 9.

See at Samsung

It’s time to upgrade, but there are reasons to look elsewhere

This whole discussion has been predicated on the idea that you’re in love with your Note 5. That you think the big screen is great, Samsung’s software fits your needs, and you use the stylus all of the time. But perhaps you’ve simply held onto your Note 5 because it continues to work and you haven’t wanted to drop the money on an upgrade. And, well, when you look at the $1000+ price of the Note 9, you start to think maybe you don’t want the latest Note after all. Fear not, there are other options that are less expensive and may fit your needs.

The Note 9 is a simple upgrade for Note 5 owners, but it isn’t the only phone that’s a worthy replacement.

The Galaxy Note 5 probably felt pretty huge when you first got it. But take a look at the photos here — the Note 9 wider, taller and over 15% heavier than the Note 5. Yes the screen has gotten bigger as a result, but the Note 9 is tougher to hold and manage in one hand. Every other top-end phone out there today is smaller, much closer to the Note 5 you’re used to. If you haven’t been keeping up with phones over the past couple years, it may be worth going to a store to see how big they’ve gotten.

One of the other reasons to look elsewhere at the Note 9’s competition is if you haven’t stayed in love with the S Pen or Samsung’s software. Not everyone requires a stylus in their phone — which is clear when you look at the higher sales of Galaxy S phones than Notes over the years. If you’re not using your S Pen on a regular basis, you could save a lot of money by getting a Galaxy S9+ instead. If another Samsung phone is out of the question entirely, there are other great options that offers the same sort of high-end components, specs and features as the Note 9 but again for less money and without the same software you’ve been looking at for three years.

It’s a big world out there. Even though the Note 9 is a fantastic phone, and an easy-to-recommend upgrade for Note 5 owners, it isn’t the only phone that is a worthy replacement.

These are the best Android phones you can buy

Samsung Galaxy Note 9

• Samsung Galaxy Note 9 review
• Galaxy Note 9 vs. Note 8
• Where to buy the Galaxy Note 9
• Galaxy Note 9 specifications
• Is the Note 8 still a good buy?
• Join our Galaxy Note 9 forums

AT&T
Verizon
T-Mobile
Samsung

LG’s new Tone Platinum earbuds have Google Assistant, real-time translation

In other words, it’s LG’s take on the Google Pixel Buds.

IFA 2018 is right around the corner, and ahead of one of the year’s biggest technology trade shows, LG’s announced two new models of its popular Tone earbuds — the Tone Platinum SE (HBS-1120) and the Tone Ultra SE (HBS-835S).

The Tone Platinum SE is the most exciting of the duo as it’s the first LG Tone product to come equipped with the Google Assistant. Similar to the Bose QC35 II and other Assistant headphones, the Platinum SE has a button that allows you to quickly prompt the Google Assistant and ask it anything you’d like.

Along with this, LG’s also taking inspiration from Google’s Pixel Buds and including real-time translation via Google Translate.

If all that Google integration really isn’t your jam, the Tone Ultra SE might be more up your alley. While you won’t find any Assistant or Translate features here, the Ultra SE does have an external speaker so you can have your own personal audio experience without blocking your ears from ambient sounds around you.

There’s currently no word on pricing or availability for the new earbuds, but LG notes that these details will be announced, “locally at the time of availability.”

Bose QC35 II review: The best noise-canceling headphones money can buy

Galaxy Note 9 pre-orders are now live!

Live in the U.S. or Canada? Here’s what you need to know about buying the Galaxy Note 9!

Samsung’s Galaxy Note 9 is here, and as you probably know by now, there’s a lot to get excited about. The all-new S Pen is more powerful than ever before, the cameras are shaping up to be the best we’ve seen from Samsung to-date, and the massive 4,000 mAh battery should be perfect for road-warriors.

Galaxy Note phones are usually available just about everywhere, and with the Note 9, that’s no different.

Whether you live in the United States or Canada, here’s everything you need to know about where to buy Sammy’s latest and greatest.

United States

• AT&T
• Sprint
• T-Mobile
• Verizon
• Straight Talk
• U.S. Cellular
• Xfinity Mobile
• Amazon
• Best Buy
• B&H
• Samsung

For customers in the United States, pre-orders for the Note 9 are live now with official sales opening up on August 24. Ocean Blue and Lavender Purple are the two colors being sold in the country and are available no matter where you buy the phone.

AT&T

Starting first with AT&T, the carrier has both the 128GB and 512GB models that are priced at $999.99 and $1249.99, respectively. While you can pay that full price upfront if you’d like, you’ll also be able to finance both storage configurations over 30 months for $33.34/month and $41.67/month.

If you’re looking to get more bang for your buck, AT&T’s giving customers $1,000 in credits when buying two Note 9’s in one transaction. One new line of service is required to get this, but even so, that essentially works out to getting a 128GB Note 9 for free!

On top of that, Note 9 pre-orders also come with a free pair of AKG headphones or 15,000 Fortnite V-Bucks + an exclusive Galaxy skin. Alternatively, you’ve got the option of getting all three of these goodies for $99.

See at AT&T

T-Mobile

Moving over to T-Mobile, everyone’s favorite Un-Carrier is selling the Note 9 in 128GB and 512GB flavors. Full retail pricing is the same, meaning that the 128GB version will set you back $999.99 while the 512GB one is going to cost $1249.99.

Alternatively, you can get the 128GB model for $30/month and $279.99 down on an equipment installment plan or $29/month for 18 months and $279.99/down with Jump! On Demand. The 512GB version is $529.99 down + $30/month for 24 months on an installment plan and $529.99 down + $26/month for 18 months with Jump! On Demand.

Looking to sweeten the deal even more? T-Mobile’s offering 50% off the Note 9 via 24 monthly bill credits when you trade-in an eligible Samsung phone. On top of that, you’ve got your choice between free AKG headphones or 15,000 V-Bucks and a Galaxy skin in Fortnite. If you want both, you can pick up the headphones and Fortnite goodies for just an extra $99.

See at T-Mobile

Verizon

Similar to AT&T and T-Mobile, Verizon is also selling the 128GB and 512GB Note 9.

By default, you’ll pay $999.99 and $1249.99 for each model, respectively. For Verizon’s installment plans, you’ll pay $41.66 for the 128GB unit and $52.08 for 512GB over the course of 24 months.

To make that deal a bit sweeter, Verizon’s also running a buy one, get one free promo when you purchase the 128GB Note 9.

This deal is available for a limited time, and if you don’t want a second Note 9, you can also get the Galaxy S9 or S9+ for free in its place. As if that wasn’t a good enough deal on its own, placing your pre-order by August 23 will secure you with either a free pair of AKG noise-canceling headphones ($299 value), 15,000 V-Bucks and a special Galaxy Skin in Fortnite ($150 value), or you can purchase both of them for $99.

See at Verizon

Sprint

If Sprint’s your carrier of choice in the U.S., your choices are a bit more limited. Specifically, Sprint is not selling the 512GB Note 9.

Instead, you can only pick up the 128GB model. Pricing is the same $999.99, but you’ve also got the option of leasing it for 18 months with the Sprint Flex plan for $41.66/month.

For a limited time, however, Sprint’s letting customers get the Note 9 through Sprint Flex for 50% off —resulting in a final price of just $20.83/month.

Lastly, if you pre-order through August 23, you can get your choice of free AKG headphones, 15,000 Fortnite V-Bucks + an exclusive Galaxy skin, or the headphones, skin, and V-Bucks for just $99.

See at Sprint

Straight Talk

Post-paid carriers are fine and dandy, but if you prefer buying pre-paid, Straight Talk Wireless has your back as it’s also carrying the Note 9.

Similar to Sprint, Straight Talk is selling just the $999.99 128GB model with no 512GB variant anywhere to be found.

Straight Talk customers also have access to the pre-order bonus, allowing them to get the free AKG headphones, 15,000 V-Bucks + Galaxy skin, or all three for $99.

See at Straight Talk

U.S. Cellular

U.S. Cellular isn’t nearly as popular as the above carriers on our list, but even so, it’s still carrying the Galaxy Note 9. Better yet, you can choose to pick up either the 128GB or 512GB configuration!

Pricing is the same at $999.99 and $1249.99, and you can also finance both models over 30 months for $33.30/month and $41.64/month, respectively.

While you won’t find any BOGO deals here, U.S. Cellular is offering the same Samsung promo found with most other carriers. If you pre-order the Note 9, you can get 15,000 V-Bucks + the Galaxy skin for Fortnite or free AKG noise-cancelling headphones for free. Alternatively, you’ve got the option of getting the V-Bucks, skin, and headphones for just $99.

See at U.S. Cellular

Xfinity Mobile

For the last U.S. carrier on our list, we’ve got Xfinity Mobile.

Like most other carriers, Xfinity Mobile is selling the Note 9 in 128GB and 512GB options for $999.99 and $1249.99. You can buy the phone outright if you’ve got the cash, or finance it over the course of 24 months to lessen the stress a bit on your wallet.

If you purchase a Note 9 on Xfinity Mobile, activate a new line, and port over an existing number, you can get a $300 prepaid card that you can use wherever you’d like.

See at Xfinity Mobile

Amazon

Stepping away from carriers, Amazon is one of the many retailers in the U.S. that’s got the Note 9 up for grabs.

The official listing hasn’t popped up on Amazon quite yet, but in the meantime, you can pick up an international unlocked 128GB model for around $1078.

No U.S. warranty comes with this version of the phone and it’s sold by a third-party seller, but right now it’s your best bet for purchasing a Note 9 via the site.

See at Amazon

Best Buy

Best Buy is the go-to store for all things tech, and as expected, you’ll be able to purchase the Note 9 here, too.

Just like the Note 8, Best Buy allows you to purchase the Note 9 through AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, or completely unlocked. Best Buy typically matches any promotions being offered by carriers, in addition to running its own from time to time. As such, if you’re looking for the vest best deal, you’ll want to hit up Best Buy’s site to see what’s being offered.

If you decide to pre-order the Note 9 through Best Buy, the retailer is touting a savings up to $200 with a qualified activation. For customers that prefer buying unlocked, you can save up to $450 with a qualified trade-in of an old device.

See at Best Buy

B&H

B&H is known for offering killer deals on new tech, and with the Galaxy Note 9, that’s no different.

You can pick up the Note 9 at B&H in 128GB and 512GB flavors and pricing is the same at $999.99 and $1294.99. However, B&H gets a nice edge as 0% tax is collected on your order if you live outside of New York or New Jersey.

Pre-ordering the Note 9 gets you your choice of free AKG headphones or 15,000 V-Bucks + the Galaxy skin for Fortnite, or you can buy all of this for just $99.

As if that wasn’t good enough, B&H customers also get a free DeX Pad and a Samsung Qi Wireless Charger Duo in either black or white (an extra value of $218.99).

See at B&H

Samsung

Rounding out our U.S. picks, the Galaxy Note 9 will be sold on Samsung’s official website and through the ShopSamsung app. Shocking, right?

Along with selling the unlocked version of the phone, Samsung also lets you buy the AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile Verizon, and U.S. Cellular variants. And, although it should go without saying at this point, the 128GB option costs $999.99 and the 512GB model is $1249.99.

Samsung does offer financing to help make your purchase more managable, and if you pre-order through August 23, you can get a pair of AKG noise-canceling headphones or an exclusive Fortnite Galaxy skin and 15,000 V-Bucks.

If you want the Fortnite items and the headphones, you can get everything for $99.

Last but certainly not least, trading in a qualifying device will allow you to get up to $450 off your order.

See at Samsung

Canada

• Bell
• Rogers
• TELUS
• Freedom Mobile
• Samsung Canada

Pre-orders for the Galaxy Note 9 in Canada are open right now with official sales beginning August 24.

The 128GB Ocean Blue model is available at all carriers/retailers, but if you want the 512GB Midnight Black option, you’ll need to buy the Note 9 directly through Samsung.

Bell

The first Canadian carrier on our list, Bell, is selling just the 128GB Note 9.

Buying the phone without any service will set you back $1379.99, and depending on the two-year term that you choose, you can decrease the upfront cost to either $749.99 or $549.99.

Pre-orders are live right now, and if you reserve your Note 9 between now and August 23, you’ll get a free pair of Gear IconX earbuds (retail value of $299.99)

See at Bell

Rogers

Rogers is also carrying the Galaxy Note 9 in the 128GB flavor, and just like Bell, placing a pre-order through August 23 will secure you with free Gear IconX earbuds that typically sell for $299.99.

Pricing for the Note 9 on Rogers is as follows:

• No Tab — $1299
• Talk & Text Tab — $1299
• Smart Tab — $899
• Premium Tab — $749
• Premium+ Tab — $549

See at Rogers

TELUS

TELUS has also been confirmed to carry the 128GB Note 9, and depending on which plan you choose, the outright price varies quite a bit:

• Pay $950 outright and then $85/month on a two-year plan
• Pay $750 outright and then $95/month on a two-year plan
• Pay $550 outright and then $105/month on a two-year plan

Similar to other Canadian carriers, pre-ordering the Note 9 through TELUS will allow you to get free Gear IconX earbuds.

See at TELUS

Freedom Mobile

If Freedom Mobile is your carrier of choice, you’re in luck!

The 128GB Galaxy Note 9 is available with all of Freedom’s plans, and as expected, pre-ordering it will allow you to get free $299 Gear IconX earbuds.

Pricing for the Note 9 works out as follows:

• $1300 with no plan
• $820 + $20/month MyTab Boost for 24 months on current $30+ plans
• $600 + $25/month My Tab Boost for 24 months on current $40+ plans
• $200 + $35/month My Tab Boost for 24 months on current $50+ plans
• $0 + $35/month My Tab Boost for 24 months on current $60+ plans

See at Freedom Mobile

Samsung Canada

Last but not least, you can pre-order the Galaxy Note 9 directly through the Samsung Canada website.

You can get the same Ocean Blue model with 128GB that’s available at all the carriers, but this is the exclusive place to go if you want the 512GB Midnight Black configuration.

The 128GB Ocean Blue Note 9 will set you back $1299.99 while the 512GB Midnight Black model costs a whopping $1629.99.

See at Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 review: Welcome to the one comma club

Samsung Galaxy Note 9

• Samsung Galaxy Note 9 review
• Galaxy Note 9 vs. Note 8
• Where to buy the Galaxy Note 9
• Galaxy Note 9 specifications
• Is the Note 8 still a good buy?
• Join our Galaxy Note 9 forums

AT&T
Verizon
T-Mobile
Samsung

Updated August 21, 2018: Updated listings for U.S. Cellular, Amazon, and TELUS.

The best smart thermostat for Amazon Echo

It’s a trick question! If there’s a Skill, there’s a way. But it’s still worth knowing what you can (and can’t) say to Alexa to control your thermostat.

One of the things you need to know about Amazon Echo — actually, I’m talking about Alexa here — is that in a good many ways, it’s hardware agnostic. You can hook all sorts of things into Alexa via Amazon’s “Skills,” and, for the most part, it shouldn’t really matter what sort of hardware it’s hooking into.

A thermostat is a thermostat. You turn it up and down. Lights are lights. On, off, color, whatever. Sprinklers turn on and off and run on schedules. The brand and exact hardware really shouldn’t matter — you build in functionality through the API, or Application Programming Interface, which we all know and love here as a “Skill.” (Google has “Actions,” Nest has “Works with Nest,” etc., etc.)

Exactly what you can say to a particular device may vary a little bit, but by and large Alexa is going to be smart enough to figure out what it is you’re trying to do without requiring too many specific keywords. (That gets us into the whole natural language processing thing, which is another post for another time.)

So what’s the best thermostat to use with Amazon Echo? Whatcha got? I’ve used a Nest ($248 on Amazon) in my home and an ecobee ($249 on Amazon) in the office. Those are the two more popular smart thermostats, and each has its merits. There’s the design of the actual thermostat itself. (I tend to prefer Nest there for its simplicity and the dial over a touchscreen.) There’s the design and usability of the app that goes along with it. (Again, Nest wins out here for me because ecobee seems like it’s trying a little too hard.)

But those are personal things. The good news here is that if you like ecobee more than Nest and want to use it with Alexa, it’ll work just fine. One really doesn’t work any better for me than the other when it comes to using your voice to control them.

One major caveat here, though, is that the ecobee 4 has a really neat feature in that Alexa is already built in. The thermostat has microphones that are waiting (and willing) for you to use your voice to control it. So you don’t even need an Amazon Echo to control it — the thermostat takes care of everything. That’s pretty cool.

All that said, let’s take a look at what you can actually say to each thermostat through Alexa.

What you can tell Alexa to do with Nest

First, Nest says to make sure you know the name of your Nest. If you’ve named it “Living room,” you’ll tell Alexa to “change the living room to 72 degrees.” You won’t say “Set the thermostat to 72 degrees.” And that’s fine. “Thermostat” is a silly name.

And with that, here’s what you can actually say to it.

• Ask what the temperature is at the thermostat?
• Ask what the thermostat is set to.
• Set the Nest to a specific temperature.
• Increase or decrease by a specific number of degrees. (You can say “warmer” or “colder,” too.

There are third-party skills, too, that let you add even more functionality. Check out Voice Thermostat Controller for even more.

See Nest Thermostat at Amazon

Nest E lets you talk to Alexa even cheaper

There’s nothing quite like a full-blown Nest Thermostat, of course. But the Nest E is really close. It’s got a different sort of look to it, but it’s 90 percent the same, as far as the tech goes. (And I’d argue that you probably won’t miss the difference anyway.

The display is more muted, so it’s not going to call quite as much attention to itself as its big brother. But you get the same smarts — the ability to learn how you like things — and the exact same integration with Amazon Alexa.

The really important part? The $169 price tag.

See at Nest

What you can tell Alexa to do with ecobee

Like you’ve probably guessed by now, using ecobee with Alexa is pretty much the same as using it with Nest. Here’s what’s available via your voice:

• Ask for the current temperature at the ecobee.
• Ask what the ecobee is currently set to.
• Set the ecobee to a specific temperature.
• Increase or decrease the temperature by a specific amount.
• Or just say “increase (or decrease) the temperature” to move it by 2 degrees.

See ecobee at Amazon

Honeywell T6 — a basic (and cheaper) alternative

If you’re looking for a digital thermostat that also has access to Amazon Alexa and that also doesn’t cost closer to $200 than not, check out the Honeywell T6.

It’s programmable, and like other thermostats of this ilk it can use your smartphone to tell when you’re home, and when you’re not home. And, yes, it has access to Amazon Alexa, so you can use your voice to control the temperature.

This isn’t quite the looker that other competitors might be, but it’s also just $115. And it’ll get the job done.

See Honeywell at Amazon

Pretty simple for all the devices. For more (and because things change), be sure to check out the individual skills at the links below.

• ecobee Skill for Amazon Alexa
• Nest Skill for Amazon Alexa
• Honeywell Skill for Amazon Alexa

Updated August 2018: Updated with the Honeywell T6.

Amazon Echo

• Tap, Echo or Dot: The ultimate Alexa question
• All about Alexa Skills
• Amazon Echo review
• Echo Dot review
• Echo Spot review
• Top Echo Tips & Tricks
• Amazon Echo vs. Google Home
• Get the latest Alexa news

See at Amazon

‘The Grand Tour Game’ brings the thrills of the show to PlayStation 4

Now it’s your turn.

Fans of ‘The Grand Tour’ TV show have had the pleasure of witnessing various challenges, locations, and stunning cars over the course of its two seasons, but they’re in for an even bigger treat when it returns later this year. The Amazon Prime Original show is slated to premiere in early November, and season 3 will be pulling viewers into the action of the show like never before as it coincides with the digital release of ‘The Grand Tour Game’ for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

This game by Amazon Game Studios is referred to as an ‘episodic racing game’ and will feature the same iconic locations, cars, and challenges from season 3 of the show. Each week, a new episode of the show will premiere alongside an unlocked episode in the game. You’ll be able to drive the same roads, in the same car, hearing original voice acting from the stars of the show: Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May. The game features clips from the show as well, along with four-player split-screen multiplayer mode which incorporates power-ups to help you keep everyone else behind you.

In total, the game will feature locations and vehicles from the first episode of season 1, the first episode of season 2, and all of season 3. Amazon has yet to announce its official release date or price.

If you haven’t yet gotten the chance to check out the show, it’s free to watch for Amazon Prime members.

YouTube’s Signature Devices highlights the best phones for watching YouTube

YouTube started as a simple video site, but today it’s much, much more.

YouTube is so much more than cute cats and mindless pranks; it’s where millions come for education, information, and live, late-breaking news. YouTube streams more than just Google keynotes; it streams important political debates and allows users to stream from almost anywhere in the world with an internet connection. It’s important to understand YouTube and how to use it, and whether you’re just looking to watch your videos without Autoplay plaguing you or you’re looking to turn your feed into a legitimate cord-cutter cornucopia of enticing entertainment, we’re here to help you get it done.

Finding your way around

First things first: let’s find where we find videos on YouTube and how we start curating our content so that YouTube’s algorithms can start working to bring us more of what we want. Want to get started with YouTube? Start here.

How to use YouTube for Android

Managing YouTube

YouTube can run away with you (and your mobile data) if you don’t keep it in check. From managing what kinds of content can pop up in your results to what networks you use to stream in HD, these are settings you can use to keep YouTube manageable.

How to manage the YouTube app for Android

Saving YouTube videos

See a fun video that you want to watch later? We’ve all been there. Here’s how to save videos for later — and to save them for watching offline, depending on where you live.

How to save videos in YouTube for Android

Managing your YouTube history

We all search for things we’d rather not fess up to. We stumble upon videos we wish we hadn’t seen. It’s okay, you don’t have to burn your digital identity — we just need to clean up our YouTube histories.

How to pause and clear your YouTube history

Uploading videos

Making the jump from consumer to creator on YouTube is a breeze. Here’s how to get videos from your Android phone onto YouTube. Getting them on the front page, however, is another matter entirely.

How to upload videos to YouTube

Taming YouTube’s annoyances

Like any site or product, there are ways that YouTube can annoy and irritate. Luckily, here’s the way to stop some of the more visible annoyances on the app.

Best tricks to fix YouTube’s most annoying features

Signature Devices offer the best YouTube experience on Android

Piggybacking on the Note 9’s announcement, Google ushered in a new program called “Signature Devices.” Signature Devices are Android phones that YouTube deems as offering the best possible YouTube experience around thanks to their screen size, resolution, HDR support, and more.

This is a list that’s constantly growing, and for the time being, these are the phones that are currently part of it:

• Samsung Galaxy Note 9
• Sony Xperia XZ2 Premium
• HTC U12+
• OnePlus 6
• LG G7 ThinQ
• Xiaomi Mi 8
• Sony Xperia XZ2
• Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact
• Nokia 8 Sirocco
• Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S
• Samsung Galaxy S9 / S9+
• Google Pixel 2 / 2 XL
• Huawei Mate 10 Pro
• Samsung Galaxy Note 8
• LG V30
• Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8+

How to sign up for YouTube Premium

As great as YouTube is on its own, the app’s made even better when you sign up for YouTube Premium.

YouTube Premium gives you access to a heap of extra features, including the ability to download videos for offline viewing, not having to ever watch ads, access to all YouTube Originals content, and more. If you want to give the service a shot, it costs $11.99/month and signing up takes just a couple minutes.

How to sign up for YouTube Premium

How to get the most out of Premium

Once you’re signed up for YouTube Premium, you’ll want to make sure you tap into everything it has to offer!

It can be easy to overlook all of the benefits that come with your Premium subscription, so let us help you get the absolute most out of your money.

How to get the most from YouTube Premium: Top tips and tricks

Updated August 21, 2018: Added a new section for YouTube’s Signature Devices list.

Symmetry Series for Galaxy S9+ can’t shake that OtterBox bulk

This glittery clear case is rugged, dependable, and too bulky to tolerate every day.

In a market that’s saturated with cases from thousands upon thousands of casemakers in every shade, color, and style available, it’s easy for users to get reliant on name brands to find cases of quality. Even among our favorite Samsung Galaxy S9+ cases, known names like Spigen and SUPCASE make the rounds because they deliver quality and security time and time again.

Otterbox is one of the best-known casemakers in the world, with the Otterbox Defender Series being known as much for its robust protection as it is for its tank-like size, but Otterbox has lighter-duty cases in its repertoire. The Otterbox Symmetry Case Series for the Samsung S9+ sports shinier cases, prettier cases, but can they escape the curse of the Otterbox bulk?

Otterbox Symmetry Case Series for Galaxy S9+

Price: $27

Bottom line: You’re paying more for the name on the side of this case than you are for case’s actual protective qualities.This bulky behemoth of a clear case is stiff, awkward, and spins like a top on your desk.

See at Amazon

The Good

• Subtle gradient plays well with phone’s color
• Lifetime limited warranty and dependable durability

The Bad

• Buttons are stiff and not very responsive
• Very stiff bumper makes it difficult to get the phone in and out of the case
• Too big and unwieldy, especially for its price tag

Otterbox Symmetry Case Series for Galaxy S9+ What works well

The Symmetry Series consists of solid, shiny single-layer clear cases, some of which are crystal clear while others have copious amounts of glitter infused into the polycarbonate. The glittery Aloha Ombre caught my eye for its teal gradient, allowing it to play well with both the Lilac Purple and Coral Blue versions of the S9+.

I was expecting a bold wave of color surging up from the base of the case, but it’s much more subtle in person than it is in the renders online. Also not quite as noticeably in the renders is the not-sharp but not-smooth groove along the side of the case where it transitions from smooth clear polycarbonate to the frosted front bumper.

The port cutouts are okay with the cutout around the fingerprint and heart rate scanner especially wide for S9+ users who actually use their phone to track their heart rate.

Otterbox Symmetry Case Series for Galaxy S9+ What falls flat

This may not be the kind of three-layer, super-duper, ready-for-the-apocalypse ultra-rugged phone case that Otterbox is made for, but it still has most of that bulk. The Symmetry Series may be a single-layer case, but it’s thicker than every dual-layer case in my collection today, clear case or solid. This thickness is especially noticeable at three times: when trying to get your phone in or out of the case, when using the buttons, and when sticking it in a pocket, purse, or holster.

Now, most people don’t switch cases every few days — and admittedly, when I’m not reviewing cases, I don’t switch that often either — but when trying to get the S9+ into the Symmetry for the first time, I was genuinely scared I might break the phone trying to get it in there. The bumper is almost as stiff and immovable as the polycarbonate back, and unfortunately, that applies to the buttons, too. I’m having to exert far more force to activate the buttons while using the Symmetry case on my S9+, and it’s made screenshotting especially painful.

Like most clear cases, the Symmetry is a magnet for smudges and smears, and while those are hidden in the glimmer of the glitter easily enough, this case started picking up scuffs in 3 days. Unlike smudges, scuffs don’t rub out and aren’t hidden by the glitter’s shine.

Otterbox Symmetry Case Series for Galaxy S9+

Otterbox means dependable. Otterbox means strong. And Otterbox means bulky, no matter how much the Symmetry Series for the Galaxy S9+ tries to pass itself off as “thin and sleek”. This case is noticeably more bulky than every other clear case I’ve tried to date, and while its glitter is quite sparkly, the rest of the case feels dull.

2.5
out of 5

Even though the Symmetry Series comes in some alluring styles like the Aloha Ombre, the case is as stiff to get the phone in and out of as it is to try and press the buttons on. And for the same price as the Otterbox, you could buy yourself two S9+ clear cases that are easier to use and easier to pocket.

See at Amazon

Hands-on with Microsoft’s new Xbox Game Pass app for Android

At Gamescom 2018, Microsoft debuted a new Xbox Game Pass mobile app for Android and iOS, allowing you to browse and push game installations remotely to your console.

Xbox Game Pass is a $9.99 per month service that gives you subscription access to dozens of games. It also has some true headliners, such as Fallout 4, DOOM, and The Division.

During Gamescom 2018, Microsoft unveiled a new Xbox Game Pass app for Android and iOS mobile devices, allowing subscribers to browse the catalog of available titles from their phones, while also pushing installations remotely over the internet. At the event, we got an early hands-on look with the Android version.

A look at the Xbox Game Pass app for Android

The app is far faster than the usual Xbox app for Android, allowing speedy and functional perusal of the existing Game Pass library. You can set up notifications for new catalog additions to keep up to date on what is available, and you can add your favorite Game Pass titles to a library list for quick access.

You can browse the most popular titles, the complete list from A to Z, or by genre. Browsing the store page for a game gives you some information, game reviews, and it has a button to push an installation directly to a connected Xbox One console. Naturally, to make use of the remote installations your Xbox needs to be set up in Instant-On mode, rather than Energy Saving mode in the power settings. You can browse the Xbox Game Pass library without signing in, but to make use of its features you will need to sign in with the same Microsoft Account you use on your Xbox One. The app also supports separate dark and light themes.

Bringing Game Pass to mobile devices like this might seem like a small deal, but it’ll further Microsoft’s encroachment on mobile platforms, as the company gradually works towards bringing full-blown game streaming to more “portable” devices.

We’ll keep you posted on availability, and provide Android and iOS download links as soon as we can.

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 awarded as the best phone for watching YouTube

Here’s the lowdown on one of 2018’s most powerful smartphones 💥

It’s finally here. After relentless leaks, rumors, and more, Samsung’s finally unveiled the Galaxy Note 9.

Even though we already knew a lot about the phone prior to its official announcement, there’s still plenty to talk about. What colors does it come in? What are the final specs? Were we impressed during our hands-on preview?

All those questions and more are answered right here, so without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about the Samsung Galaxy Note 9.

The latest Galaxy Note 9 news

August 21, 2018 — Google names the Note 9 as the best phone for YouTube

The Note 9’s 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display is one of the best you’ll find on a smartphone in 2018, and thanks to this, Google’s deemed it as the best phone for binging YouTube on.

YouTube’s Signature Devices list recently launched as a way to highlight Android phones that offer the best experience for all things YouTube, and as part of it, it’s noted that:

With this transition from TV screen to phone screen, YouTube has announced its Signature Devices for a best-in-class YouTube experience. Ranked against a variety of key attributes, YouTube endorsed a variety of devices as best-in-class for the platform.

Their top choice? The Samsung Galaxy Note 9

August 21, 2018 — The 512GB Note 9 saw more pre-orders than the 128GB model in Korea

Pre-order numbers for the Galaxy Note 9 are slowly trickling out, and according to a report from The Investor, Samsung’s highest-end 512GB model was the most popular in the country.

SK Telecom, Korea’s biggest wireless carrier, notes that “users mostly preferred to buy the 512GB version” which costs 1.35 million won (or $1,208 USD). At this time, it’s unclear if the 512GB preference carriers over to the U.S. and other markets.

Korean pre-orders for the Note 9 have also been stronger than that of the Galaxy S9, but not as high as last year’s Note 8.

August 17, 2018 — Galaxy Note 9 already getting a software update that adds August 2018 security patch and more slow-mo video options

The Note 9 won’t officially be released until Augst 24, but even so, Samsung’s already pushing a software update to the phone that adds a couple goodies.

This update changes the software version number to N960FXXU1ARH5 and allows users to record Super Slow-Mo video for moments that last either 0.2 seconds or 0.4 seconds when in manual mode. 0.2-second shots are still in glorious 960 FPS while 0.4-second ones are limited to 480 FPS.

Additionally, this update also brings the more recent August 2018 security patch.

August 15, 2018 — Samsung talks about what it took to make the Note 9 so darn pretty 😍

It’s no secret that Samsung makes stunning phones, and with the Galaxy Note 9, the company put all of its design prowess on full display. However, as much fun as it is to look at and hold the Note 9, it’s even more exciting to take a closer look at just what goes into crafting a device of its caliber.

Samsung’s Infinity Display is once again being used on the Note 9, and measuring in at 6.4-inches, is the biggest the company’s created to-date. Samsung also says that the Note 9’s screen is an ever deeper black compared to past handsets, which “allows it to blend in with the bezels when the device is off and enhances the overall aesthetic.”

A process called Die-cutting was used to craft the Note 9’s frame, and as a result of this laborious process, the frame of the Note 9 ” features an interplay of glossy and matte finishes that complements the Galaxy Note9’s premium design cues.”

To read more about the Note 9’s design and the time/attention that went into its S Pen, check out Samsung’s full deep dive below.

Beautiful From Every Angle: The Design of the Galaxy Note 9

All the big details

Check out our hands-on preview

Before you do anything else, be sure to check out our initial hands-on preview of the Galaxy Note 9!

This is Samsung’s biggest and most powerful phone of the year, and during our early look, we got a chance to check out the Note 9’s design, new S Pen features, cameras, and more.

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 hands-on preview: $1000 well spent

Here are the specs

Like past Notes before it, the Galaxy Note 9 is packed to the gills with all of the latest available tech. That means it has the latest processor, a massive battery, an insane amount of RAM, and much more.

Here are all the specs you can look forward to.

Operating system	Android 8.1 OreoSamsung Experience 9.5
Display	6.4-inch Super AMOLED, 2960×1440 (18.5:9)
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 845
Storage	128/512GB
Expandable	MicroSD up to 2TB
RAM	6/8GB
Primary rear camera	12MP Super Speed Dual Pixel, OIS, f/1.5 or f/2.4
Secondary rear camera	12MP, OIS, f/2.4, telephoto lens
Front camera	8MP, f/1.7, auto focus
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 802.11ac MIMO, 1.2Gbps (Cat-18) LTE, Bluetooth 5.0 LEANT+, NFC, GPS, Glonass
Audio	Stereo speakersDolby Atmos3.5mm headphone
Battery	4000mAhNon-removable
Charging
Water resistance	IP68
Security	One-touch fingerprint sensorIris scannerSamsung KNOX
Dimensions
Colors	Ocean Blue, Lavender Purple (U.S.)Midnight Black, Metallic Copper (intl)

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 specifications

Should you upgrade from the Note 8?

As exciting as the Galaxy Note 9 is shaping up to be, last year’s Note 8 is still one heck of a smartphone.

The Note 9 offers the expected improvements in regards to RAM, camera performance, etc., but really gets a strong edge over its predecessor thanks to its improved S Pen and a massive battery.

Then again, if you already have the Note 8 and don’t feel like throwing down $900 (?) on a new phone, maybe upgrading isn’t the right move for you?

Let Andrew break everything down for you in his comparison of the Note 8 and Note 9

How’s it compare to other phones?

That’s fine and dandy, but how’s the Note 9 hold up against other non-Note devices?

Without a doubt, one of the Note 9’s biggest competitors comes from Samsung itself with the Galaxy S9+. A lot of features are shared between the two phones, including a large Super AMOLED display, Snapdragon 845, Samsung’s custom software, excellent dual cameras, and more.

The Note 9 is obviously the only one of the two that uses the S Pen, but is that reason enough to make the pricey upgrade?

Similarly, there are still plenty of other phones that are scheduled to come out before 2018 is over — most importantly the Google Pixel 3 XL. Rumors and leaks are hinting at a phone with considerably slimmer bezels, an even better camera package, and an all-glass back (not to mention the ginormous notch).

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 vs. Galaxy S9+

Should you buy the Galaxy Note 9 or wait for the Google Pixel 3 XL?

A lot is new with the S Pen

The S Pen is easily the biggest reason so many people flock to the Note series year after year, and this time around, Samsung’s giving the S Pen one of its biggest upgrades in years.

For the first time, Samsung’s adding Bluetooth Low Energy to the S Pen. With this new connectivity, the S Pen picks up a heap of new features that allow you to control the Note 9 from a distance.

Some use cases include being able to use the S Pen and its button as a camera shutter, navigating through presentations, and more. The presence of Bluetooth also means this is the first S Pen to have a battery, and as with all things that have a battery, the S Pen will need to be charged.

Thankfully, seeing as how the S Pen seamlessly charges in the background when stored inside the Note 9, this shouldn’t ever prove to be an issue of any sort.

Get the official wallpapers right here!

New Samsung phones always come with striking wallpapers to help jazz up your home screen, and even if you don’t have the funds/interest to get a Note 9 right now, you can still bring its look to your exisitng handset with its official wallpapers.

We’ve got all 12 listed above for your viewing pleasure, and if you want to throw one (or all) of them on your phone, feel free to download ’em as you see fit.

What color should you get?

Samsung’s typically one of the better OEMs when it comes to offering a good variety of colors, and with the Note 9, that’s no different.

In the United States, buyers will be able to choose from Ocean Blue and Lavender Purple. In other parts of the world, Samsung’s releasing Midnight Black and Metallic Copper.

Which color Galaxy Note 9 should I buy: Blue, purple, gold, or black?

Don’t forget about the cases!

The Note 9 has a striking design that combines metal and glass into one gorgeous package, but as great as the phone might look, it’s certainly not the most durable handset you’ll find.

Thankfully, to help keep your Note 9 looking as good as can be through all sorts of wear and tear, there are already a number of cases being sold.

Here are our favorites!

Best Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Cases

Here’s everything you need to know about buying the Note 9

There are a lot of reasons you may want to pick up the Note 9, and whatever those reasons may be, you’ve got a lot of options for deciding where to get it.

In the United States, pricing starts at $999.99 for the 128GB model and goes up to $1249.99 for the 512GB one. You can get the phone at Best Buy, Amazon, Samsung’s website, all of the major carriers, and more.

However, there are some questions that pop up when thinking about buying the Note 9. Should you buy it unlocked or through a carrier? What storage size is the best to pick up? You’ve got the questions, we’ve got answers.

Where to buy the Galaxy Note 9: Best deals for your new phone
Should you buy the Galaxy Note 9 unlocked or from a carrier?
Samsung Galaxy Note 9: Which storage size should I buy?

Samsung Galaxy Note 9

• Samsung Galaxy Note 9 review
• Galaxy Note 9 vs. Note 8
• Where to buy the Galaxy Note 9
• Galaxy Note 9 specifications
• Is the Note 8 still a good buy?
• Join our Galaxy Note 9 forums

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Updated August 16, 2018: Updated this guide with a news-roll and the latest available info!