Xiaomi’s latest Android TV box with 4K HDR lands in the U.S. for just $59

The Mi Box S will be going up for sale on Walmart later this month for just $59.

Xiaomi’s first effort at an Android TV box — the Mi Box — wasn’t the company’s finest effort, but the Chinese manufacturer is looking to change that with the Mi Box S. The device made its debut earlier this year as the Mi Box 4, and will be sold as the Mi Box S in the U.S.

There are a few things that make the Mi Box S stand out: it has great hardware in the form of a quad-core Amlogic S905L processor, 2GB of RAM, and 8GB of storage. It also lets you play back 4K HDR content at up to 60fps, and it supports Dolby DTS.

There’s Wi-Fi ac and Bluetooth 4.2 as well, and you get a remote with a dedicated button to invoke Google Assistant. The device comes with the latest version of the Android TV interface, which is based on Android 8.1 Oreo. As it is an Android TV box, it has Chromecast built-in, allowing it to act as a video target.

What’s particularly attractive about the Mi Box S is the price. At $59, it’s more affordable than its predecessor while offering better hardware. The Mi Box S will go up for sale from later this month at Walmart stores across the country.

New camera features coming to Pixel 2 and original Pixels

You don’t need to spend more money to get sick new camera features.

The Pixel line has been the benchmark for great photos for the last couple years, and that’s going to continue with the Pixel 3. But, don’t go thinking your Pixel 2 is suddenly bad: the best features of the Pixel 3’s camera are coming to the older phones.

The best among these is Night Sight: a new feature that makes your nighttime picture so much better. No more super bright eyes, details hidden in shadows, or any of the other downsides that come with a nighttime shot. The photos still clearly look like they’re taken in dark conditions, but lit up well enough so you can see the small details and all the smiles on your friends’ faces.

Other features like improved Augmented Reality — including new characters from Marvel Studios — are coming as well.

Google didn’t specify when the new features would reach older phones, but it should be sometime in the next few months.

Google Hardware

• Google Wifi review
• Google Home review
• Chromecast Ultra: all you need to know
• Which Chromecast should you buy?

Google Wifi: Google
Amazon
Google Home: Google
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Chromecast Ultra: Google
Best Buy

Where to buy the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL

Here’s where you can get Google’s latest phones, in either size.

Google opened up pre-orders for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL immediately after they were announced, which is always a treat. And we don’t have to wait too long for full retail availability either — you can go into stores and grab one off the shelf (theoretically) on October 18. But let’s be honest, ordering online is just so much easier.

If a Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL is on your shopping list, here’s where you can go buy one — whether you want to head to a carrier or do it your own way and buy unlocked.

Verizon

Once again Verizon is the “exclusive” carrier for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL in the U.S. That’s, of course, a bit of a misnomer because that exclusivity only reaches as far as buying from a carrier goes. Still, that means Verizon is the only one of the big four U.S. carriers to offer the phone directly.

At the start that doesn’t mean a whole lot, but in the future, Verizon’s likely to offer some enticing deals for financing, trade-ins, and rebates. Just know that you can also bring an unlocked Pixel to Verizon and have it work identically to one purchased from the carrier.

Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 and $899 for the Pixel 3 XL. Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage. Available colors include Just Black, Clearly White, and Not Pink

See at Verizon

Project Fi

Remember that whole “exclusive carrier” thing? Well, you can buy the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL from Google’s own carrier, Project Fi. When you do, you’re basically just getting a phone as if it were purchased from the Google Store, but it comes ready to rock with your Project Fi account if you have one already. If you’re starting a new Project Fi line, the phone’s ridiculously easy to get set up thanks to its eSIM — you just power it up and follow a few prompts.

Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 and $899 for the Pixel 3 XL. Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage. Once again, colors include Just Black, Clearly White, and Not Pink.

For a limited time, Project Fi is offering a $799 service credit when you buy two Pixel 3 or 3 XL phones and add a new member to an existing group/family plan.

See at Project Fi

Best Buy

Best Buy is a massive retailer partner to have on board for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, but unfortunately, the partnership is only to sell the phones as “Verizon” devices. The phones are actually unlocked and will work on any carrier of your choice, be it one of the big four or a prepaid carrier, but chances are you won’t be able to get Best Buy to sell you one unless you have a Verizon account.

Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 and $899 for the Pixel 3 XL. Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage.

See at Best Buy

Google Store

If you’re buying a Google phone, there’s a seamless experience to be had buying from the Google Store directly. When you do, you’ll be able to take advantage of Google’s trade-in offers, which could be as high as $400, as well as its 24-month no-interest financing options that mirror those offered by carriers. Google also offers “Preferred Care” plans for an extended warranty and extra support.

The Google Store also has a good selection of promos. In addition to getting 6 free months of YouTube Music, you’ll also get a free Pixel Stand when you pre-order (retail value of $79).

Pricing is set at $799 for the Pixel 3 and $899 for the Pixel 3 XL. Add $100 to each to jump to 128GB of storage.

See at Google Store

Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL

• Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL hands-on preview
• Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL: Everything you need to know!
• Google Pixel 3 vs. Pixel 3 XL: Which should you buy?
• Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL specifications
• Join our Pixel 3 forums

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Verizon
Google Store
Project Fi

Google quietly releases a new Chromecast in black and white

It costs the same $35 like the previous model.

Google talked about a lot of new products at its October 9 hardware event, but one new gadget that wasn’t even mentioned is a slightly upgraded Chromecast.

If you already have a Chromecast, you probably don’t need to get the new one. The only things that have changed include an updated design and new Chalk (aka white) color. Under the hood is improved Wi-Fi for faster speeds and more reliable connections.

It still plugs into your TV via HDMI, streams all of your content in 1080p Full HD, and works with all existing Chromecast apps.

You can purchase the new Chromecast from the Google Store right now for $35 if you’re interested.

See at Google Store

Chromecast

• Chromecast buyer’s guide: Which should you get?
• Chromecast vs. Chromecast Ultra: Which should you buy?
• Chromecast Audio: Everything you need to know
• Chromecast Ultra vs. Roku
• Join the discussion in our forums!

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Can Your Phone on Windows 10 keep your phone in your pocket?

Microsoft is trying to connect all of your devices, and Your Phone is the next big step.

Microsoft has been pushing the mobility of experiences across devices for years and the vision is finally coming to fruition. Your Phone allows you to send SMS messages on your PC and view your Android phone’s recent photos by connecting your phone and PC.

It’s the next major step in being able to do all of your work through your PC. The first release of the app works with SMS messaging and photos, and Microsoft has discussed app mirroring coming in future updates.

Note: This app was tested on a Samsung Galaxy S8+, but we expect it to work fairly similarly on all other Android phones.

Your Phone comes as part of the most recent update to Windows 10, the October 2018 Update. That update has been pulled at the time of this article’s publication due to a file deletion bug, but will presumably be available again soon.

Your Phone requires the Your Phone Companion Android app which is free on the Google Play Store.

Download: Your Phone (free)

Easy connection to your phone

Setting up Your Phone is incredibly easy. You just get the companion app on your phone and follow its instructions. Once your phone is connected, your PC and your phone reconnect every time you open the Your Phone app on PC.

Microsoft has had a few different approaches to sending text messages through your PC and I think Your Phone is probably the best one so far. It works relatively quickly, though in my testing wasn’t instant, and the app’s interface is clean and attractive. I think the team behind Your Phone’s design should get some more work across other Microsoft apps. It’s reminiscent of the Messaging app from Windows 10 Mobile that also had a PC equivalent that used to send Skype messages.

The photo syncing functionality probably won’t be discussed as much as SMS messaging. People haven’t been clamoring for a phone syncing app for years as they have for an iMessage competitor. There are also already some other options like OneDrive syncing that do similar functions. But I’m impressed with Your Phone’s photo syncing. You can see the last 25 photos that you’ve taken with your phone and can drag and drop them to your desktop. It’s a feature that many will sleep on, but I think it does a good job building the connection between your phone and your PC.

Can it really keep your phone in your pocket?

Microsoft advertises Your Phone as a way to keep your phone in your pocket while still being able to get things done. I think the first iteration of Your Phone does this well. SMS messaging is the main draw. You could argue that modern smartphones are used more for messaging than calling and the ability to sync SMS messages is the most important connection between these two types of devices.

For my workflow, Your Phone almost completely closes the gap between phone and PC. Many of my apps are available on both and sync across my devices and SMS messaging was one of the last gaps. But for some people, the lack of phone call relay and app mirroring will be more noticeable. Microsoft has discussed app mirroring coming to Your Phone and that will be a great addition. I’d also like phone calls to be able to be relayed.

For now, Your Phone is a handy way to respond to messages from your PC with a full keyboard that also allows you to keep focused on your PC instead of pulling out your phone. Photo syncing is also a nice bonus.

Overall thoughts on Your Phone

Your Phone is the next step in Microsoft’s vision to bring the Windows experience to more devices and to allow people to get things done everywhere. It’s easy to set up and SMS syncing and photo syncing works well.

4
out of 5

Pros

• Easily connects phone and PC.
• Clean and attractive design.

Cons

• No call support.
• Unable to mirror Android apps yet.

The only major knock on Your Phone is that it doesn’t allow you to mirror apps to your PC yet and that it doesn’t relay phone calls. This means that you’ll still need to pull your phone out of your pocket to get some things done.

Download: Your Phone (free)

Aukey’s $12 USB-C wall charger has Power Delivery as well

Your devices need the juice.

The Aukey USB-C 18W wall charger with Power Delivery is down to $11.99 with code 2VD594TN. This charger sells for $20 without the code and never drops to this price directly.

If you don’t care about USB-C or Power Delivery, you can get this fast USB wall charger from Aukey for less than $8 right now. It does have Quick Charge 3.0, which might be a feature you prefer.

The USB-C wall charger delivers a super fast charge to iPhones and Android phones. Any Power Delivery compatible device, like the Nintendo Switch, can take advantage of these charging speeds, too. The foldable plug and compact design let you toss this in your backpack on the way out the door, so you’ll always have a way to plug in no matter where you are. It has built-in safeguards and comes with a two-year warranty.

See on Amazon

The newest PlayStation 4 Gold wireless gaming headset is down to $73 today

This PlayStation accessory is just inches away from being an essential for gamers.

Sony’s PlayStation Gold wireless headset is down to $72.94 via Amazon today. This headset was released in February earlier this year, and today’s deal marks the lowest offer we’ve ever seen on it. It regularly sells for $100 at other retailers such as Best Buy, though it’s been available for around $91 on average at Amazon.

The older version was a really well-liked gaming peripheral, but the new one is getting good critical reviews as well. PC Mag gave it 4 stars. The team here has a breakdown of the differences between the two and talks about whether or not you should upgrade.

The headset has 7.1 virtual surround sound, a noise-canceling microphone, a free companion app, and a comfortable feel for long-term gaming. You can even remove the faceplates and customize it according to your own style. It’s still somehwat new so it doesn’t have a huge amount of user reviews, but close to 190 users give it 3.8 stars out of 5 collectively at Amazon.

See at Amazon

Will my Pixel 2 case fit on my Pixel 3?

Best answer: A Pixel 2 case will fit on the Pixel 3, but it’s certainly not a perfect fit. It’ll work in a pinch until your Pixel 3 case arrives, but it’s not a long-term solution and it may scratch or scuff the Pixel 3 if you use it for a long time.

Amazon: Spigen Thin Fit ($12)

Only use as a temporary solution

It’s pretty rare these days, but yes, the Pixel 2 and the Pixel 3 are similar enough in size and design for you to get away with using a Pixel 2 case on a brand new Pixel 3. It’s not a precise fit, and a more rigid case is not going to fit as well as, say, the Google-made fabric case that has a bit of elasticity built into its design, but a Pixel 2 case can be fit onto the Pixel 3 for protection.

Of course, this should only be done as a temporary solution if your new phone arrives before you get a chance to pick out a case for it. We are not recommending buying a cheaper Pixel 2 case for your Pixel 3 to save money, as you’re bound to find a comparable Pixel 3 case that’s actually designed to fit the exact specifications of the newest Pixel. We’ve recommended a good case option from Spigen that’s a better option than any Pixel 2 case in your drawer.

Our pick

Spigen Thin Fit

$12 at Amazon

A great place to start

There are bound to be more great cases to come, but for now, we’ll recommend this thin and reliable case option from Spigen.

Will my Pixel 2 XL case fit on my Pixel 3 XL?

Best answer: A Pixel 2 XL case will fit on the Pixel 3 XL, but it’s not a perfect fit — particularly around the camera and fingerprint sensor. It’ll work in a pinch until your Pixel 3 XL case arrives, but it’s not a long-term solution and it may scratch or scuff the Pixel 3 XL if you use it for a long time.

Amazon: Spigen Liquid Crystal ($12)

Not a perfect fit

Depending on the Pixel 2 XL cases you have laying around, you might find that they fit pretty well on the new Pixel 3 XL. You may be tempted to just stick with those cases because “it fits good enough”, right?

Wrong. If you use the wrong case for your phone you’re going to risk scuffing up your phone or causing worse damage with prolonged use. You should notice that things don’t quite line up perfectly around the camera and fingerprint sensor. That may lead to rubbing or let dust and grit get between your phone and the case which can cause scratches and scuffs. Nobody wants that, so as nice as it might have been if last year’s cases fit this year’s phone perfectly, you’re still best off buying a brand new case for your Pixel 3 XL.

Our pick

Spigen Liquid Crystal

$12 at Amazon

Clearly your best option

Everyone loves to show off their brand new phone, and with Spigen’s Liquid Crystal case you can do so while keeping it safe from drops and scuffs.

Best Cases for Google Pixel 3

The Google Pixel 3 is here, and if you’re in the market for a solid Android phone, it’s definitely one of the better ones you can get. The Pixel 3 is a good-looking phone, but thanks to its all-glass back, it’s not the most sturdy you’ll find. Whether you want to keep it protected or just add some pizazz, these are the best Pixel 3 cases you can get.

Affordable and slim

Vinve Carbon Fiber TPU Case

Vinve’s Pixel 3 case offers great protection while still keeping the phone nice and slim. The TPU material is soft to the touch while offering lots of grip and the subtle pattern at the top and bottom is a really nice touch. You’ve also got your choice of Black, Blue, Grey, and Red.

$7.82 at Amazon

Lightweight companion

Spigen Thin Fit

Want to keep your Pixel 3 looking nice without adding too much bulk? The Spigen Thin Fit case is a perfect choice. You’ve got solid coverage against regular wear and tear + accidental drops, but keep in mind that the top and bottom frame of the phone are left uncovered for the name of thinness.

$15 at Amazon

Clearly a good choice

MoKo Clear Case

If you want to show off your new Pixel 3 without running the risk of breaking it, MoKo’s clear case is absolutely worth checking out. You’ve got full 360-degree protection, a soft TPU material that adds a lot of grip, and precise cutouts for the charging port, camera, and speakers.

$8 at Amazon

All-around champ

Spigen Neo Hybrid

$30 at Amazon

The Spigen Neo Hybrid is one of the best cases to ever exist. We gave it an AC Choice Award for the Google Pixel 2, and with the Pixel 3, it’s just as good. There are two colors (Gunmetal and Burgundy), and the two-tone design is absolutely gorgeous.

Fabricy goodness

Google Fabric Case

$40 at Google Store

Google introduced its fabric cases last year with the Pixel 2 series and is bringing it back for another round with the Pixel 3. There are multiple fabric designs to choose from, each with its one distinct look. These cases are on the pricey side, but they’re well, well worth it.

Dual-layer coverage

ASMART Drop Protection Case

$8 at Amazon

ASMART’s case strikes a nice middle-ground of offering ample protection without being too bulky. The dual-layer design consists of a TPU inner case and a hard outer shell that works to keep your phone safe no matter what. AMSART also goes the extra mile with a lifetime warranty to protect your purchase.

Unique design

Ringke Fusion-X

$10 at Amazon

The Ringke Fusion-X is probably one of the more unique-looking cases you’ll find for the Pixel 3. The impact resistant back bumper safeguards the phone against unwanted drops and bumps while the special Anti-Cling Dot Matrix tech helps to keep fingerprints at bay.

Like nothing’s there

Cimo Slim Grip

$8 at Amazon

There are slim cases, and then there’s the Cimo Slim Grip. This is one of the thinnest cases on the market and is an excellent choice to give your Pixel 3 the bare minimum protection while retaining its slim design. There are three colors (blue, white, and purple) and a semi-see-through construction so you can still appreciate the Pixel 3’s good looks.

Guarded against everything

Spigen Tough Armor

$35 at Amazon

Slim cases not your jam? We recommend looking at Spigen’s Tough Armor case. This case offers maximum durability without being overly bulky, and it’s a combination that’s darn near perfect. The ergonomic design is easy to hold and the kickstand on the back is a really welcome touch.

No matter your case preference, there’s something out there for you to outfit your Pixel 3 with. My personal favorite is the Spigen Neo Hybrid, but if that’s not your cup of tea, there’s bound to be something else on this list that catches your fancy.