Add a refurbished original Amazon Echo to your home for just $50 today

An oldie but a goodie.

If you don’t need the latest and greatest, and just want a great deal, you won’t want to miss this deal. Amazon has dropped the price on a certified refurbished Echo down to just $49.99 for today only, which is $30 cheaper than it’s been selling for.

Amazon has already released a newer version of this smart speaker, but if you’re just looking for a great value this is the way to go. It gives you access to all of Alexa’s great features, like the ability to answer questions, control smart home accessories, and more.

Amazon says the certified refurbished Echo has been tested and will look and work like new. You can pick one up in your choice of black or white, and at this price, you won’t want to miss out.

See at Amazon

A fix is coming for the second notch bug on Pixel 3 XL

From specs, pricing, features, and more, here’s the latest on the Pixel 3 and 3 XL.

Following months of leak after leak, Google’s officially taken the wraps off its Pixel 3 and 3 XL smartphones. The two handsets look exactly like what we saw in all the early photos and renders, and while the element of surprise may be gone, we’ve still got two impressive Android handsets to talk about.

Without further ado, this is everything you need to know about the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL!

The latest Pixel 3 news

October 29, 2018 — A fix is coming for the second notch bug on Pixel 3 XL

Earlier this month, reports started popping up on Twitter about a bug with the Pixel 3 XL that caused a second notch to appear on the right side of the display — creating for one of the most horrifying things we’ve ever seen a smartphone. Seriously, just look at that thing. 🤮

Thankfully, Google’s aware of the issue and working on a fix!

According to a spokesperson that contacted Android Police, a patch for this odd bug is “coming soon.”

Have you noticed this behavior on your Pixel 3 XL?

October 23, 2018 — Google explains Pixel 3 wireless charging confusion

After it was discovered that the Pixel 3 requires a Pixel Stand to charge at its allotted 10W fast charging speeds, and that other chargers — even those that technically support the Qi standard at 10W — only charge the phone at 5W, Google released a statement:

We don’t limit third-party devices, in fact, we’re working with our partners in the Made for Google program to get fast 10W chargers certified for use with Pixel 3 (Belkin announced its 10W Pixel 3 charger already which will launch in the coming weeks). Pixel Stand and Pixel 3 work together through the protocol we’ve developed for fast charging. Everything else charges at the industry standard Qi 5W.”

In other words, Google made a proprietary wireless charging standard that isn’t Qi, and uses it with the Pixel Stand and other wireless chargers that are part of the “Made for Google” program. The Pixel 3 does support Qi wireless charging, but only at 5W. Disappointing? Yup. Confusing? Yup, yup. Totally Google? Yup, yup, yup.

October 23, 2018 — Early Pixel 3 Night Sight photos are beyond impressive

The Google Pixel 3’s camera is one of the best you’ll find on a smartphone, but one of its most impressive features — Night Sight — won’t actually arrive until sometime in November.

However, a user on the XDA Developer forums modified the latest version of the Google Camera app and has enabled the feature ahead of its official release. XDA then put Night Sight to the test on the Pixel 3, 3 XL, and 2 XL, and the end results are simply amazing.

As you can see in the example above, the first photo without Night Sight turned on is barely visible at all. The second shot with Night Sight enabled looks like a completely different photograph. The amount of detail and light Google’s able to pull in with this new mode is literally jaw-dropping, and it’ll be even more exciting to see how it evolves and improves over time.

If you want to try out Night Sight early for yourself, download this APK to your Pixel phone. After you open it, tap More -> Night, and you should be good to go.

October 18, 2018 — The regular Pixel 3 uses an LG OLED display

Earlier this week, a teardown of the Pixel 3 XL revealed that it’s using an OLED display made by Samsung. The folks at iFixIt recently put the smaller Pixel 3 through that same treatment, and while doing so, discovered that its OLED panel is sourced from not Samsung, but LG.

If you remember the Pixel 2 series, this is a total flip-flop of what was going on last year in which the Pixel 2 had a Samsung panel and the Pixel 2 XL had an LG one.

In that situation, the Pixel 2 XL’s screen was noticeably worse with greater burn-in potential, color shifting, and more. That’s not the case for the LG panel on this year’s Pixel 3, and in fact, both displays have been tuned to look nearly identical to one another. Even so, it is interesting to see that Google’s still not relying on just one supplier when it comes to its smartphone displays.

October 17, 2018 — Google explains how the Pixel 3’s Titan M security chip works

The Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL have a lot of tech packed inside them, and while it’s easy to get excited about their new OLED displays and improved cameras, one of the most important features is the new Titan M security chip.

Titan M is an all-new chip that’s designed with the single goal of keep the Pixel 3 secure, and in a post on the Android Developers Blog, Google recently dived into further detail about just how Titan M works.

The chip is a security module that was made by Google itself, and it works to protect the Pixel 3 + 3 XL against all sorts of potential threats. Since Titan M is a physical piece of tech, it’ll help protect against hardware-specific exploits such as Spectre, Meltdown, and Rowhammer much more efficiently than phones without it. On the technical side of things, Google explains the following:

Titan M’s CPU is an ARM Cortex-M3 microprocessor specially hardened against side-channel attacks and augmented with defensive features to detect and respond to abnormal conditions. The Titan M CPU core also exposes several control registers, which can be used to taper access to chip configuration settings and peripherals. Once powered on, Titan M verifies the signature of its flash-based firmware using a public key built into the chip’s silicon. If the signature is valid, the flash is locked so it can’t be modified, and then the firmware begins executing.

With the chip, Google notes that it hopes to achieve “transparency and building a platform for future innovation.”

Custom hardware allows us to provide new features, capabilities, and performance not readily available in off-the-shelf components. These changes allow higher assurance use cases like two-factor authentication, medical device control, P2P payments, and others that we will help develop down the road.

October 16, 2018 — The Pixel 3 XL uses a Samsung OLED display

While last year’s Pixel 2 XL had one of the worst displays for a phone in its price range, that’s an issue that’s been completely squashed with the Pixel 3 XL.

The screen on this year’s larger Pixel is brighter, colorful, and has less blue shift + burn-in potential compared to the 2 XL. The reason for this? A Samsung OLED panel.

Google opted for an LG-made OLED display with the Pixel 2 XL, but thanks to a recent iFixIt teardown, we now have confirmation that the Pixel 3 XL is using a Samsung one.

October 16, 2018 — Google explains how the Pixel 3’s Super Res Zoom feature works

The Pixel 3 comes chock-full of neat camera tricks, but perhaps one of the coolest is Super Res Zoom. This is the name of Google’s process for improving the clarity of digital zoom by collecting data from your hands shaking as you hold the phone in preparation to snap a photo.

Recently, the Google AI team took to their official blog to detail how exactly this works.

The Super Res Zoom technology in Pixel 3 is different and better than any previous digital zoom technique based on upscaling a crop of a single image, because we merge many frames directly onto a higher resolution picture. This results in greatly improved detail that is roughly competitive with the 2x optical zoom lenses on many other smartphones. Super Res Zoom means that if you pinch-zoom before pressing the shutter, you’ll get a lot more details in your picture than if you crop afterwards.

If Super Res Zoom detects that the camera isn’t shaking (e.g. the Pixel 3 is on a tripod or propped up on a table), it’ll actually start moving around on its own to simulate natural hand movement.

The post goes on to dive into of color filter arrays, multi-frame super-resolution, and a bunch of other nitty-gritty details. If that sounds like something you want to dig into, you can check it out here.

All the big details

Check out our full review!

Here it is, folks — the full Android Central review of the Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL!

These are easily two of the best Android phones you can buy right now, and no matter if you opt for the regular or XL model, you’ll be getting a fantastic display, an excellent software experience, and some of the best cameras on a smartphone in 2018.

They may not look like much on the outside, but these are two really special phones.

Google Pixel 3 review: Fewer features make incredible phones

Here are the specs!

If you’ve got a Pixel 2, a lot of the specs for the Pixel 3 and 3 XL will look very similar. There’s still 4GB of RAM and a starting storage amount of 64GB, but the Snapdragon 835 processor from last year has been replaced by the newer 845.

For a full rundown on both phones, check out the link below. 👇

Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL specifications

The displays are a lot better

Shortly after its release, one of the biggest controversies that popped up for the larger Pixel 2 XL was its poor display. We have an LG-made OLED panel once again, but the year-over-year difference is huge.

Google’s touting 400+ nits of brightness for both phones, 2X less burn-in potential, and less color shifting.

There are still three different color profiles to choose from so you can fine-tune your experience, and out of the box, both the Pixel 3 and 3 XL have been optimized so that their displays look identical next to one another.

For an extremely detailed analysis of the Pixel 3 XL’s display, check out DisplayMate’s full in-depth review in which it received a top A+ rating.

The Google Pixel 3 addresses our biggest complaint with the Pixel 2: its display

There are three colors

Google’s probably the best when it comes to naming its device colors, and this year we have Just Black and Very White. New this year is a pink hue that’s been aptly named “Not Pink.”

All three colors are available for both the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL no matter where you decide to buy them.

An all-glass back brings wireless charging support

For the past two years, Google’s used a mixture of aluminum and glass on the back of its phones. This year, the Pixel 3 shakes things up by adopting an all-glass construction.

There’s still an etched section near the top that adds a nice matte finish that allows for more grip and fewer fingerprints. Google’s also integrated Qi wireless charging support and selling a new Pixel Stand wireless charging accessory that’ll charge the Pixel 3 + 3 XL and put them into a new “dashboard” UI that shows a slideshow of pictures on Google Photos and various Assistant info.

The Pixel Stand is a $79 wireless charger for Pixel 3 that unlocks special display modes

Google’s made a ton of camera improvements

The Pixel 2 and 2 XL have some of the best cameras we’ve ever seen on a smartphone, and with the Pixel 3, Google’s making the camera experience even better.

Perhaps the biggest change includes the addition of a second front-facing camera. You now have access to a regular and wide-angle lens for all of your selfies and portrait mode works no matter which one you use. Google’s also integrated an algorithm to remove any distortion caused by the wider lens.

Other changes include:

• 40% faster HDR+ processing
• Improved detail retention while zooming
• Night Sight mode improves low-light shots
• Top Shot mode captures multiple frames before and after your picture and then recommends an alternative shot compared to what you actually captured

Along with all this, Google Lens is also built right into the Pixel 3’s camera app and works automatically when it detects something.

Android 9 Pie is available out of the box

As you’d expect, Android 9 Pie is running on the Pixel 3 and 3 XL from day one. This is the same Android Pie we’ve been using on the Pixel 2 phones, including the new navigation gestures, quick settings panel, etc.

The Pixel 3 does bring a handful of new software goodies, including the full release of Digital Wellbeing outside of its beta state and a slightly updated UI for the camera app.

There’s also a new call screening feature that’ll allow you to send your caller to a system that asks them to provide information about who they are and why they’re calling. What they say comes through in real-time and you can choose to hang up or pick up at any point.

There are already a ton of accessories

The Pixel 3 and 3 XL are great phones, but you can make them even better with a good collection of accessories.

Whether you’re in the market for a heavy duty case, screen protectors, or something else entirely, here are a few helpful links to get you started with outfitting your new phone.

• Best Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL Accessories
• Best Cases for Google Pixel 3
• Best Cases for Google Pixel 3 XL
• These Are The Official Cases for the Google Pixel 3 lineup
• Best Screen Protectors for Google Pixel 3 XL

Here’s when and where you can buy it

If you want to pick up the Pixel 3 for yourself, pre-orders are open right now. The Pixel 3 costs $799 for the 64GB model and goes up to $899 if you get the 128GB variant. For those same storage configurations on the Pixel 3 XL, you’ll pay $899 and $999, respectively.

The Pixel 3 series will be sold at Verizon, Best Buy, the Google Store, and Project Fi.

See at Google Store

Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL

• Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL review
• 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

Best Buy
Verizon
Google Store
Project Fi

Aukey’s $11 USB-C Power Delivery wall charger keeps your gear powered up

Power Delivery for more advanced devices.

The black Aukey USB-C wall charger with 18W Power Delivery is down to $10.99 with code AUKEY8PA on Amazon. That price is almost $12 off what this charger normally sells for and one of the best deals we’ve seen.

The White version is also down to the same price, you’ll just need to use the slightly different code AUKEY9PA to see it. Pick your favorite. Other than the color and the code the chargers are identical.

If you have a phone or tablet that supports Power Delivery and USB-C, you’ll get a lot out of this wall charger. It can charge up to 18W and transfers juice a lot faster than a regular charger. The foldable plug and compact design means you can shove it in your bag and take it with you wherever you go. Plus, it has all the usual safeguards to prevent things like overheating or overcharging. Aukey gives the charger a two-year warranty.

See on Amazon

The $53 Huawei Band 2 Pro watch tracks sleep, your heart, and more

All the activities are yours for the tracking.

The Huawei Band 2 Pro all-in-one activity tracker smartwatch has dropped to $52.88 on Amazon from a street price around $70. We haven’t seen it drop in price since May.

The watch comes with built-in GPS, a heart-rate monitor, multiple modes for different sports, a sleep monitor, and more. The sleep tracking helps record data based on tracking light, how much you sleep, REM deep sleep stages, and more. It’s water resistant and has a PMOLED display. Use workout apps to help coach you through different sports and keep track of things like recovery time. One charge of the watch will last up to 21 days based on how you use it.

See on Amazon

Apple to Release iOS 12.1 Tomorrow With Group FaceTime, New Emoji, Dual-SIM and Real-Time Depth Control

Apple today announced that it plans to release iOS 12.1 to the public tomorrow following its Brooklyn event that is expected to see the debut of new iPad Pro models and refreshed Macs.

As we’ve discovered in the iOS 12.1 betas that have been available since September, iOS 12.1 brings several important new features to the iPhone and the iPad.

The update brings support for Group FaceTime, the feature designed to let users chat with up to 32 people at one time. Group FaceTime was present in the iOS 12 beta, but it was removed from the iOS 12 launch to provide Apple with additional time to develop the feature.

Other FaceTime features are included in iOS 12.1 as well, such as automatic detection of active speakers to surface the icon of the person who is speaking, ringless notification to let you join a call without being disruptive, and Messages integration for starting a Group FaceTime call right from the Messages app from a group chat.

iOS 12.1 will also bring more than 70 new emoji characters, such as cold face, woozy face, hot face, red hair, white hair, leg, foot, teddy bear, llama, raccoon, kangaroo, mango, cupcake, bagel, and tons more. A full list of all of the new emoji is available here.

On iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR, iOS 12.1 introduces real-time Depth Control so you can adjust the amount of background blur before a photo is even captured, and support for the digital eSIM, which will allow two SIMs to be used at one time.

iOS 12.1 should be released alongside new updates for tvOS, watchOS, and macOS right around 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, Apple’s typical release time for new software updates.

Related Roundup: iOS 12
Discuss this article in our forums

Popular Reddit App Apollo Pulled From App Store Over Push Notification Snafu

Popular Reddit app Apollo was removed from the App Store this afternoon after developer Christian Selig released an update that adds push notifications as a premium feature, Selig explained on Reddit.

After introducing the latest version of the Apollo app, which has a paid feature enabling push notifications, Apple informed Selig that he was in violation of rule 3.2.2 that prohibits apps from monetizing Push Notifications and other iPhone and iPad capabilities provided by the hardware or operating system. The email Selig received from Apple:

Hello,
We are writing to let you know about new information regarding your app, Apollo for Reddit, version 1.3, currently live on the App Store.
Upon re-evaluation, we found that your app is not in compliance with the App Store Review Guidelines. Specifically, we found:

Business – 3.2.2 We noticed that your in-app purchase auto-renewable subscription product provides access to built-in Push Notification capabilities, which is not appropriate for the App Store.
For this reason, your app will be removed from sale on the App Store at this time.

Deliberate disregard of the App Store Review Guidelines and attempts to deceive users or undermine the review process are unacceptable and is a direct violation Section 3.2(f) of the Apple Developer Program License Agreement. Continuing to violate the Terms & Conditions of the Apple Developer Program will result in the termination of your account, as well as any related or linked accounts, and the removal of all your associated apps from the App Store.

Future submissions of this app may require a longer review time, and this app will not be eligible for an expedited review. If you have any questions about this information, please reply to this message to let us know.

Selig said that he’s “quite confused” by Apple’s decision, as he had worked with Apple on the implementation of the premium service after the app update was previously rejected for the same reason.

For background, several weeks ago, Selig said that the 1.3 update of Apollo had been rejected by Apple because it included the in-app purchase for unlocking push notifications. Selig explained at the time that he needs to charge to add push notifications due to the server costs associated with implementing them.

In an update earlier this month, Selig said he was able to develop a workaround with Apple by bundling the feature with other premium options like app theming and custom icons for an “Apollo Ultra” service, and the update was released on Saturday.

It’s not clear why Apple pulled the Apollo app after telling Selig that it was appropriate to implement push notifications as part of a paid bundle of features, but Apple has been known for making confusing App Store decisions in the past. It’s likely the issue will be solved quickly, and Selig says he will keep Apollo customers updated on the status of the app.
Discuss this article in our forums

Best nine ebook reading apps for Android

Like to read a quick chapter during your morning commute? In that case, you’re probably carrying a Kindle with you every day. But to be fair, with smartphones getting bigger and bigger these days, you don’t even need a Kindle anymore.

Simply install an ebook reading app on your phone and get your ebooks on board your mobile, and you won’t have to carry two devices around.

So for this article, we’ve rounded up some of the best e-reading apps you can download and use on your Android device when you feel like reading a chapter or two.

Moon+Reader

What it is:

An innovative eReader app with tons of functions and support for many ebook formats.

Why we like it:

• The app boasts support for epub, mobi, pdf, chm, umd and lots more, so you won’t have to convert your files.
• A user-friendly shelf-like interface where you can see all your books and from where you can easily import more files.
• Offers direct access to free libraries like Project Guttenberg.
• The eReader features a Day/Night mode.
• Easily customize your reading experience by adjusting the font size, auto-scrolling mode and speed, or adjusting the brightness.

Note: Free to download. Subscription up to $4.99.

Download Moon+Reader

Bookari Free eBook Reader

What it is:

Previously known as Mantano Reader, Bookari is one of the most popular eReaders out there which also offers a discovery option.

Why we like it:

• The app acts as a discovery tool, letting you browse the pre-configured bookstores, OPDS in-browser catalogues, or websites you have added manually.
• Bookari lets you synchronize your library across devices, so you can easily switch between your phone and tablet and find your reading positions, bookmarks and more in place.
• Allows you to search for books via quick access filters like tags, authors and rating.
• Supports popular ebook formats like epub or pdf, but not mobi.

Note: Free to download. Subscription up to $5.49.

Download Bookari

Prestigio eReader

What it is:

A super-friendly eReader with Material Design which lets you keep all your books in one place, read, as well as discover new material.

Why we like it:

• An intuitive and aesthetically pleasing user interface that allows you to easily scan your device for specific files.
• Comes with different themes for the shelf.
• The app has an in-built dictionary.
• There’s also a store which you can browse which contains a Free section.
• You can customize your reading experience by choosing your favorite, font type, size and style.
• Offers support for a wide range of ebook formats including epub, html, mobi, pdf, fb2 and lots more.
• Tired of reading? The app also has a Text-to-Speech function that will read out to you.

Note: Free to download. Subscription up to $2.99.

Download Prestigio eReader

AIReader

What it is:

A simple yet powerful eBook reader for Android that includes quite a lot of features.

Why we like it:

• The app lets you open and load one book at the time and provides easy access to customization tools. Readers have the option of changing the font style, size or color, as well as margins and spacing. Screen rotation is also supported.
• The Actions tab includes a Dictionary option, Autoscroll and Text-to-Speech.
• AIReader supports a large number of reading formats including text, epub, html, doc, mobi and prc.

Note: Free to download. Subscription up to $9.72.

Download AIReader

FullReader

What it is:

A featured-packed eReader app with a visually pleasing user-interface that will help you get out the most of your library.

Why we like it:

• One of the few eReading apps out there that offers support for more “exotic” formats like DjVu, odt, rar, 7z and even MP3 for audiobooks.
• Offers integration with Google Drive, Dropbox and OneDrive, so you can sync books between several devices.
• The app offers all the customization tools you need for a perfect reading experience. But it has some extra, like the built-in translator.
• Users can set quick access to certain functions or tools.

Note: Free to download. Subscription up to $7.99.

Download FullReader

PocketBook Reader

What it is:

A fun eReader app with a beautiful interface and a unique floating customization menu.

Why we like it:

• The unique customization menu which appears as a floating circle each time you open a book. Easily change the font size, text or background color and much more.
• The app also supports audiobook and has a Text-to-Speech function, so if your eyes are tired you can simply switch to the audio option.
• Among the few eReading apps out there that also comes equipped with a built-in ISBN Scanner.
• Completely add-free!

Download PocketBook Reader

ReadEra

What it is:

A practical eReader app that automatically detects all the books and documents present on your device.

Why we like it:

• ReadEra is very easy-to-use. The app auto-populates your shelf with the books and documents available on your device. It also lets you edit the font color, size or style, as well as line spacing and text alignment right from the reading window.
• You can neatly organize your documents and books by author and series. There’s also the option to add files to the collection: To Read, Have Read and Favorites.
• It’s completely ad-free!

Download ReadEra

Media365 Book Reader

What it is:

An eReading app that also doubles as a publishing platform for authors who want to get their names out there.

Why we like it:

• Features a refreshing and vivid green theme
• Includes a practical eReader function that supports all types of formats including comic book formats.
• Offers a customizable reading experience by letting you choose from multiple font sizes and types, adjust brightness and page orientation.
• Has a Discover tab where you can get and read free eBooks for free.
• Authors can publish their work and start making money.

Note: Free to download. Subscription up to $4.99.

Download Media365 Book Reader

EBookDroid

What it is:

A full-featured reader app capable of displaying just about any book format you might happen to throw at it including Amazon’s AZW ebook format.

Why we like it:

• Comes with a highly customizable document viewer that lets you adjust View Mode Settings, as well as Screen Orientation and more.
• The app is specially designed to support DJVU and PDF files, but you can use it to view a ton of other documents.
• The app comes with external dictionary support and offers access to OPDS catalogues like Project Gutenberg.

Download EBookDroid

Other apps, digital readers you might want to try:

• Wattpad (if you want to discover free books and stories written by authors from around the world)
• Kobo (bookstore that sells eBooks and audiobooks)
• Google Play Books
• Amazon Kindle (a reading app that’s also a book store)

The flagship-quality OnePlus 6T is here: Now here’s where to buy it

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

Flagship phones may have a lot to offer, but they’re really expensive, and getting pricier by the month. That, however, is where OnePlus comes in. The company has been building flagship-tier phones for a number of years now and usually offers them at a much lower price than other flagship devices. The latest is the new OnePlus 6T, which boasts a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor, up to 8GB of RAM, and more.

Of course, you may be wondering how you can get your hands on the new OnePlus 6T for yourself — which is exactly why we’ve put together this guide. This time around, for the first time, OnePlus is offering the 6T through a carrier in the U.S. thanks to its partnership with T-Mobile — essentially giving you more options than ever to buy the phone. On top of that, T-Mobile is offering the phone for half-off — if you get it on October 29 in the New York Times Square T-Mobile store.

No matter what your situation, here’s how to get your hands on the OnePlus 6T.

Does my carrier support the OnePlus 6T?

Before buying the OnePlus 6T, it’s important to note that like previous OnePlus models, the device is GSM-only. Unlike previous models, however, Verizon has certified the OnePlus 6T to work on its network, so you will be able to buy the phone unlocked and take it to Verizon. In other words, the only major network that the OnePlus 6T won’t work on is Sprint, so if you’re on Sprint you’ll need to switch in order to use the OnePlus 6T. That also means that Sprint’s mobile virtual network operators won’t support the phone — like Boost Mobile.

Buying the OnePlus 6T unlocked

As usual, the OnePlus 6T is available unlocked and you will be able to get it directly through the OnePlus website. Of course, if you do so you’ll have to pay for the OnePlus 6T upfront, which is something to keep in mind. The phone goes up for sale on November 1, and it’s available in a few different colors, though the color you get may impact pricing. Pricing for the phone can be found below.

• Mirror black 6GB RAM and 128GB of storage: $550
• Mirror black 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage: $580
• Midnight black 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage: $580
• Midnight black 8GB RAM and 256GB of storage: $630

Other than the OnePlus website, it’s likely you’ll be able to buy the phone through Amazon and other retail partners, though we’re not sure exactly when they will show up through those partners.

Buying the OnePlus 6T through T-Mobile

For the first time, OnePlus is offering the OnePlus 6T through a carrier in the U.S., and that carrier is T-Mobile. Like the unlocked version, the OnePlus 6T will go on sale at T-Mobile starting on November 1. Unlike the unlocked version, however, T-mobile is only offering one variant of the phone — the Mirror Black version with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.

Through T-Mobile, the phone comes at $580 outright, which equates to $24.17 per month for 24 months on T-Mobile’s Equipment Installment Plan. T-Mobile is also offering up to $300 off for an eligible trade-in, and if you get the full amount you’ll only pay $11.67 per month for 24 months.

If you live in New York, you may be able to get the phone before everyone else, and for less than everyone else. OnePlus will be taking over the flagship T-Mobile store in Times Square on Monday, October 29 at 5 p.m., where you’ll be able to get the phone for half-off its normal price.

Editors’ Recommendations

• OnePlus 6T: Absolutely everything you need to know
• OnePlus 6T review
• OnePlus 6: Everything you need to know
• The 6-inch OnePlus 5T: Everything you need to know
• OnePlus’ ‘Crackables’ includes puzzles in both the digital and physical worlds

OnePlus 6T vs. OnePlus 6 vs. OnePlus 5T vs. OnePlus 5: Should you upgrade?

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

The self-proclaimed “flagship killer” has come a long way over the last few years, with an aggressive policy of turning out new smartphones every six months. OnePlus has consistently offered close-to-cutting-edge specs at knockout prices that undercut the competition.

It looks as though the OnePlus 6T is the best phone the company has ever turned out, but how does it measure up to its predecessors? We decided to pit it against the last three OnePlus releases to see precisely what has changed and to help you decide whether it’s time to pull the trigger on an upgrade.

Specs

OnePlus 6T

OnePlus 6
OnePlus 5T

OnePlus 5

Size
157.5 x 74.8 x 8.2 mm (6.2 x 2.94 x 0.32 inches)
155.7 x 75.4 x 7.8 mm (6.13 x 2.97 x 0.31 inches)
156.1 x 75 x 7.3 mm (6.15 x 2.95 x 0.29 inches)
154.2 x 74.1 x 7.3 mm (6.07 x 2.92 x 0.29 inches)

Weight
185 g (6.52 oz)
177 g (6.24 oz)
162 g (5.71 oz)
153 g (5.40 oz)

Screen size
6.41 inches
6.28 inches
6.01 inches
5.5 inches

Screen resolution
2,340 x 1,080 pixels (402 ppi)
2,280 x 1,080 pixels (402 ppi)
2,160 x 1,080 pixels (401 ppi)
1,920 x 1,080 pixels (401 ppi)

Operating system
Android 9.0 Pie
Android 8.1 Oreo
Android 7.1.1 Nougat
Android 7.1.1 Nougat

Storage space
128GB, 256GB
64GB, 128GB, 256GB
64GB, 128GB
64GB, 128GB

MicroSD card slot
No
No
No
No

Tap-to-pay services
Google Pay
Google Pay
Google Pay
Google Pay

Processor
Snapdragon 845
Snapdragon 845
Snapdragon 835
Snapdragon 835

RAM
6GB, 8GB
6GB, 8GB
6GB, 8GB
6GB, 8GB

Camera
Dual 16MP and 20MP rear, 16MP front
Dual 16MP and 20MP rear, 16MP front
Dual 16MP and 20MP rear, 16MP front
Dual 16MP and 20MP rear, 16MP front

Video
2,160p up to 60 fps, 1080p up to 240 fps, 720p up to 480 fps
2,160p up to 60 fps, 1080p up to 240 fps, 720p up to 480 fps
2,160 at 30 fps, 1080p up to 60 fps, 720p at 120 fps
2,160 at 30 fps, 1080p up to 60 fps, 720p at 120 fps

Bluetooth version
Bluetooth 5.0
Bluetooth 5.0
Bluetooth 5.0
Bluetooth 5.0

Ports
USB-C port
3.5mm audio jack, USB-C port
3.5mm audio jack, USB-C port
3.5mm audio jack, USB-C port

Fingerprint sensor
Yes, in display
Yes, on back
Yes, on back
Yes, on front

Water resistance
No
No
No
No

Battery
3,700mAh

Fast charging

3,300mAh

Fast charging

3,300mAh

Fast charging

3,300mAh

Fast charging

App marketplace
Google Play Store
Google Play Store
Google Play Store
Google Play Store

Network support
T-Mobile, AT&T
T-Mobile, AT&T
T-Mobile, AT&T
T-Mobile, AT&T

Colors
Mirror Black, Midnight Black
Midnight Black, Mirror Black, Silk White, Amber Red
Midnight Black, Lava Red, Sandstone White
Midnight Black, Slate Gray

Price
$550
$530
$500
$480

Buy from
OnePlus
Discontinued
Discontinued
Discontinued

Review score
4 out of 5 stars
4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5 out of 5 stars
4 out of 5 stars

Performance, battery life, and charging

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

If you’re looking for an area of compromise where OnePlus scrimps to keep its costs down, you won’t find it in the performance department. The OnePlus 6T and OnePlus 6 both have the virtually ubiquitous Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor inside, which you’ll also find in everything from Samsung’s Galaxy Note 9 to Google’s Pixel 3. The older OnePlus 5T and 5 have the previous year’s Snapdragon 835, which is slightly slower and less power efficient.

All of them come with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, which may be overkill unless you’re a major multitasker. Storage has been upped from 64GB or 128GB to 128GB or 256GB in the newest phone. OnePlus is not keen on the humble MicroSD card slot, so you won’t find one in any of these phones.

The 3,300mAh battery found in the OnePlus 5, 5T, and 6 has finally been upgraded in the 6T to 3,700mAh. Even accounting for the larger display, that should provide a boost to stamina. All of these phones support fast charging, but you won’t find any Qi wireless charging support.

Winner: OnePlus 6T

Design and durability

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

We think this is a category where you can see the clearest evolution of the OnePlus range. We felt the OnePlus 5 was aping the iPhone a little too closely, but the fingerprint sensor moved around back in the 5T. The OnePlus 6 did adopt the notch, but it was smaller than the iPhone X’s and the central camera module and fingerprint sensor on the back gave it a feel of its own. The OnePlus 6T is perhaps its most distinct phone yet, with that teardrop notch, the slimmest of bottom bezels, and an in-display fingerprint sensor. It’s a refined, attractive design that’s going to turn heads.

Water resistance is an area where OnePlus has cut corners. While most flagship smartphones nowadays can be submerged without damage, there’s no IP-rating for any of these OnePlus phones. The OnePlus 5T and OnePlus 5 both had aluminum frames and backs, but the newer duo are glass front and back, so durability is definitely an issue here. It should be noted the OnePlus 6T is wrapped in Gorilla Glass 6, which is the most durable version from Corning yet.

Something that’s sure to disappoint some people is the lack of a traditional headphone port in the OnePlus 6T, especially since all the other phones here have a standard 3.5mm audio jack.

Winner: OnePlus 6T

Display

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

The shift in the display from the OnePlus 5 through to the OnePlus 6T mirrors wider industry trends. We’ve gone from a 5.5-inch display with a 16:9 aspect ratio to a 6.4-inch display with an 19.5:9 ratio, which has prompted a resolution shift from 1,920 x 1,080 pixels to 2,340 x 1,080 pixels. Interestingly, all these phones have essentially the same pixel density and they’re all AMOLED screens. The extra size isn’t the only benefit of the OnePlus 6T’s display though, it’s also brighter, with better color accuracy and more software tuning options than its predecessors.

Winner: OnePlus 6T

Camera

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

On paper, it looks like these phones all have the same exact camera setup, a dual-lens 16-megapixel and 20-megapixel main camera and a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. There have actually been a few jumps in the hardware quality, with newer sensors, and lots of developments on the software and tuning side that mean you can see concrete improvements. The camera in the OnePlus 6 is definitely better than the cameras in the 5 and 5T. The OnePlus 6T also features some new artificial smarts for scene recognition and improved portrait and low-light capabilities, but we’ve yet to test it against the OnePlus 6, so we’re not yet sure if there’s any discernible jump in quality.

Only the 6 and 6T have super slow motion video support.

Winners: OnePlus 6 and 6T

Software and updates

With Android 9.0 Pie out of the box, the OnePlus 6T has a clear advantage. The OnePlus 5 and 5T can both be upgraded to Android 8.1 Oreo, which is what the OnePlus 6 launched with, and they will eventually get the update to Android Pie. The OnePlus 6 has received the Android 9.0 Pie update already. All of them have OxygenOS on top, which offers various customization options and shortcuts that you won’t find in stock Android. We expect the 6T and 6 to have a similar shelf life in terms of updates, so there’s no dividing them here.

Winners: OnePlus 6 and 6T

Special features

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

The in-display fingerprint sensor enabled OnePlus to hit new heights with its design in the 6T, but most of the other special features are nothing new for the range. As mentioned, OxyegnOS offers lots of gesture shortcuts and customization options, and there’s also a special gaming mode to prevent interruptions and ensure your gaming sessions are as smooth as possible.

Winner: OnePlus 6T

Price

Price has always been a major selling point for the OnePlus range, but it has been creeping higher with each new phone. We’ve gone from $480 for the basic model of the OnePlus 5 up to $550 for the OnePlus 6T, but that’s still great value compared to other flagships on the market. OnePlus also discontinues its older phones as soon as the new ones are released, so there’s no option to go back and buy an older model unless you can find some remaining stock from another seller.

The OnePlus 6T is also available now from T-Mobile, giving you another place to buy it from. It’s also compatible on Verizon — a first for OnePlus — making it the most accessible OnePlus phone ever.

Overall winner: OnePlus 6T

The OnePlus 6T is the best phone that OnePlus has made so far, but it’s very, very similar to the OnePlus 6. We’re talking about some extra battery capacity, a better design, and a slightly bigger display. If you already have the OnePlus 6, then you should hold onto it for a while. For people with the OnePlus 5T or OnePlus 5, the 6T is going to be a more tempting upgrade, and you can add faster performance and a better camera to the list of temptations.

Editors’ Recommendations

• OnePlus 6T: Absolutely everything you need to know
• Samsung Galaxy Note 9 vs. OnePlus 6: Does more expensive mean better?
• The 6-inch OnePlus 5T: Everything you need to know
• OnePlus 6T review
• OnePlus’ ‘Crackables’ includes puzzles in both the digital and physical worlds

A new Windows Defender feature will better guard your PC against viruses

Microsoft is working on helping protect your PC from hackers and other viruses with a new feature for Windows Defender on Windows 10. A sandboxed mode for the free and built-in antivirus tool is set to raise its security by separating it from the rest of Windows to further prevent hackers from getting access to your system.

Announced on October 26, the sandbox feature for Windows Defender is currently in beta testing with Windows Insiders. Unlike free software, this makes Windows Defender the first complete antivirus solution with sandboxing, which is a feature that helps ensure that viruses and malware can’t hijack the tool itself to do damage to Windows 10.

“Putting Windows Defender Antivirus in a restrictive process execution environment is a direct result of feedback that we received from the security industry and the research community. It was a complex undertaking: We had to carefully study the implications of such an enhancement on performance and functionality. More importantly, we had to identify high-risk areas and make sure that sandboxing did not adversely affect the level of security we have been providing,” Microsoft said.

After the hard work to build Windows Defender in sandbox mode, more time is still needed to examine the feature based on feedback from beta Windows users and security researches. However, Microsoft is still making it easy for anyone to enable the feature, regardless if enrolled in the Windows Insider program or not.

If running the Windows 10 Creators Update or later, sandboxing can be force enabled on any machine by heading to the Command Prompt as an administrator, typing in “setx /M MP_FORCE_USE_SANDBOX 1”, and then restarting.

“The ability to gradually deploy this feature was another important design goal. Because we would be enabling this on a wide range of hardware and software configurations, we aimed to have the ability at runtime to decide if and when the sandboxing is enabled,” Microsoft noted.

In a world where viruses and other threats are always evolving, this is just one of the many steps Microsoft is taking toward innovating Windows Defender and making it secure. It has previously invested in research, artificial intelligence, and the cloud to better analyze and deliver protection to all Windows 10 devices.

Editors’ Recommendations

• The best free antivirus for Mac in 2018
• How to install the Windows 10 October 2018 Update right now
• Windows 10 Home vs. Pro vs. S Mode
• Apple’s latest feature ensures MacOS apps are safer than ever
• Microsoft plans to overhaul a central feature of Windows 10