VR is in a tailspin, and the sales numbers prove it

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If you watch CNN, you’ve likely witnessed the commercials for its CNN Go streaming app, which introduce the “new” (as of a couple years ago) virtual reality division. The ad shows reactions from people who’ve never tried VR before as they slip on a smartphone-based headset and react to the life-altering moment of experiencing VR for the first time.

The commercial is only a couple years old but, in the accelerated timeline of technology trends, it looks like something out of a 1980s Spielberg flick. It promises a naive and slightly disturbing future, like a World’s Fair exhibit gone wrong.

In truth, consumers are done with VR. Sales numbers, as tracked by Amazon sales rank data at Thinknum, make that crystal clear.

Amazon releases its numbers via API several times a day, to help track how products are selling across its multitudes of product categories. Those sale ranks figures make it clear all the major VR headsets in a tailspin, with no signs they’ll pull out of it.

Sony has pushed virtual reality with its PlayStation VR headset. At first, Sony saw decent sales, and its version bundled with Skryim has been most successful in moving PlayStation VR. In February 2018, that bundle saw a favorable rank of 29 among all video game products. Today, it sits at spot 100. That’s not a total disaster — rank 100 among all video game products isn’t so bad — but it certainly doesn’t indicate the headset is flying off shelves. Gamers are modestly interested, at best.

Taiwan-based HTC launched the Vive headset HTC Vive review in April 2016. At the time, tech experts declared that high-end PC VR had arrived. The $799 HTC Vive, built for relatively high-end PCs, had the entertainment and gaming world scrambling to develop content for the new system, and sales for the system quickly climbed to an impressive top-50 spot despite the higher price tag. Today, though, its sales rank has plummeted.

Korean electronics giant Samsung wasn’t about to be left out of the VR fun. The company took a more mass-consumer approach, launching the smartphone-based Gear VR in 2014. Its most popular unit was a top-10 seller in September of 2016. Today, that device is at the more mediocre 83 spot. Other units from Samsung have straight-up failed to rank in Amazon’s best-seller charts.

In an attempt to get ahead of finicky consumers, Oculus released the all-in-one Oculus Go in October 2017. It originally sold quite well on Amazon, scoring a 7-spot in May 2018. But, as you can see above, it’s failed to maintain sales momentum, and has fallen off the top-100 product lists completely.

Where does VR go from here?

When VR first appeared and I was lucky enough to try early iterations of Project Morpheus, Oculus, and the like, my reaction was much like those of the newbies in the CNN commercial. “This is the future!” I proclaimed to anyone who would listen.

When the PlayStation VR came out, I scrambled to get one into my house. I ate up its games, burning through VR Worlds, goofing off in PSVR Playroom, and encouraging friends and family to give it a spin. They all had the same CNN-esque reaction. “Wow!”

But then, 30 minutes later, they wanted the thing off their heads for a return to reality. Not a single one of my friends or family members went on to buy a VR unit of their own. In fact, not one of them has asked to give the PSVR another try when they come over.

Even hardcore VR enthusiasts rarely use a headset for more than an hour at a time.

I dig VR. VR can bring a paradigm shift. The first time you strap into a VR experience, you’re taken somewhere else. It’s really cool. It’s a lot like seeing a 3D movie for the first time.

But then what?

Today’s VR headsets don’t answer that question. After the initial shock wears off they offer too little content, are too confusing to use, and leave too many users dealing with motion sickness or other VR-related ailments. Even hardcore VR enthusiasts rarely use a headset for more than an hour at a time.

There’s still many questions for Oculus, HTC, and Samsung to answer, and you shouldn’t expect to see VR sales return to their initial strength unless these companies can build new headsets that are far better than their predecessors — and sell them at a reasonable price.

Editors’ Recommendations

• $200 Oculus Go VR headset hits Amazon
• Oculus Go review
• Oculus confirms second-screen support is coming to Oculus Go
• More than 1,000 experiences are available for the Oculus Go VR headset
• The Oculus Go is a VR headset for grannies, and that’s a good thing

How to install Windows on a Chromebook

Bill Roberson/Digital Trends

Between web apps and Android apps in Chrome OS, there’s a lot you can get done on Chromebooks. However, there still might be certain things about Windows you miss.

You might not have thought it was possible, but you have a few different options for bringing some of that Windows goodness to your Chrome OS machine. There are a multitude of ways to make this work — and we can show you where to go. Here’s how to use Windows on a Chromebook!

Before you begin

Before setting off on this adventure, there are a few important caveats to getting Windows up and running on your Chromebook. As always, and most importantly, messing with your operating system, firmware, and BIOS can have serious effects on your system. You’ll want to back up any important data away from your computer before you begin.

If something does happen and you find yourself unable to use your Chromebook, you can create a USB drive from another computer to try and recover the system. This will erase all of your data though, so make sure to back up anything that isn’t saved to Google Drive.

With that out of the way, let’s begin with the first (and easiest) method.

Method 1: Free Online Apps

If you are primarily interested in accessing apps from the Office suite and don’t really care about any of the other apps offered on Windows 10, this is by far the easiest option and you can do right from the Chrome browser.

Step 1: Launch the Chrome browser and navigate to this Microsoft site.

Step 2: Here you will see the selection of apps available for Office Online. Basically, Microsoft knows that certain core apps are very important for professionals and student, so they want people to be able to access them from any operating system. This is why they put up free online apps for options like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Sway, Mail, Calendar, OneDrive, and more.

Step 3: Select the app or apps that you want to use. A version will open in your Chrome browser and you will be able to start using it. Take note, however, that these online versions won’t have all the capabilities that you would get with something like Office 365. However, they should work for most purposes.

Method 2: Chrome Remote Desktop

The Chrome Remote Desktop is an extension that simply allows you to access another desktop while using your Chromebook. Somewhat like a virtual machine, this will open a window that shows an entirely different operating system that you can use. The key to this method — and the caveat — is that you need another Windows 10 machine connected to the internet that you can link to. That’s the only way this works. Obviously this won’t be possible in some Chromebook situations, but if you have a Windows computer around, this can be an effective workaround.

Step 1: Navigate over to the Chrome Web Store and download the Chrome Remote Desktop extension on your Chromebook. Then head over to your Windows computer, pull up your Chrome browser, and make sure it’s updated with the same capability.

Step 2: Starting on your Windows computer, head over to your Chrome apps and select Chrome Remote Desktop, then choose “Get Started.” From here, choose “Share.” This will create an access code and ask you to define the computer you want to connect to. Email that code to yourself so that you will remember it.

Step 3: Now switch to your Chromebook. Start the Chrome Remote Desktop — this time it should see your Windows computer as an option to select and connect to. Select it, and input the access code that you sent yourself. Then click “Connect.”

Note: This is a very good remote desktop app, but remote desktop solutions still have their pitfalls. They are highly dependent on internet connections and can experience delays at times. This works best if you have high-speed internet all the way between your computers.

Method 3: CrossOver

CrossOver, by CodeWeavers, is a software solution that allows you to run specific OS apps on other operating systems. Thanks to the latest update, that now includes running Windows apps on your Chromebook. Before you get all excited, there are a few things to keep in mind before moving forward. First, it’s important to note that the Chrome OS version is still in beta. You can try it out, but it’s not guaranteed to be bug-free and easy-peasy for a little while yet.

The second issue is that because of the software requirements involved, this download won’t be available for everyone. Specifically, you can only run it on Intel-based Chromebooks and if you want to involve any Android devices or apps, they need to be compatible with Android 5.x or later. Also, certain functions like mouse locking (using often in FPS games) won’t function.

The good news, however, is that because the software is currently in beta, it’s free to try. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Head over to Google Play and choose to install the CrossOver on Chrome OS Beta. This will install a new icon made of two semicircles on your dashboard. When you click on it, make sure to allow it to access your media and files on your Chromebook.

Step 2: Make sure you a copy of the application’s installation file in your downloads folder, even if it won’t currently work.

Step 3: When CrossOver is launched, the easiest way to search for Windows software is to use the search bar in the top of the window and just type in the name of what you want to use. Software like Quicken, as well as DirectX applications all work, so search for anything you want.

Step 4: In many cases, you can confirm the software you want, and CrossOvhttps://www.maketecheasier.com/replace-chromebook-bios/er will begin the installation process with no trouble. In some cases you may have to choose the right installation file from a list, so pay close attention to file names and make sure you are choosing the one that you want. You may also have to agree to License Agreements and similar contracts at this time.

Step 5: After the installation is done, you should be able to launch the installation directly. Keep in mind that large programs will take up significant space, which not all Chromebooks have. Hopefully smaller Android apps will eventually be fully compatible with our Chromebooks.

Google’s AltOS mode

Dan Baker/Digital Trends

Interestingly, it may soon be much easier to run Windows on a Chromebook, at least when it comes to certain models. Inspection of code and code comments has shown discussion of Windows hardware kits and names that appear to reference Windows as an “AltOS.”

In other words, Google appears to be working on an AltOS mode that allows you to switch your Chromebook from Chrome OS to another operating system (specifically Windows 10). This would be a native feature available in upcoming versions of Chrome OS for Pixelbooks.

We aren’t sure when this feature would arrive on Pixelbooks or if Google would wait for the next generation of Pixelbook laptops to implement it. But the rumors have solid evidence behind them, so it may not be long before you have a much easier way of running Windows on a Chromebook, albeit a high-end Chromebook directly from Google.

Editors’ Recommendations

• Windows 10 vs. MacOS vs. Chrome OS
• How to take a screenshot on a Chromebook
• The best touchscreen laptops
• Chromebooks will start to feel more like Windows, but in a good way
• Google Pixelbook review

Best T-Mobile Phones in 2018

• Best overall
• Best runner-up
• Best for less

Best overall

Samsung Galaxy S9+

See at T-Mobile

Every carrier has to offer the latest Galaxy, and for good reason: this is the top-end phone everyone knows and lusts after, right alongside Apple’s latest iPhone. T-Mobile, of course, offers both the Galaxy S9 and larger S9+, but which size you want is purely personal preference — the experience is ultimately the same on both aside from a few differences.

Inside you obviously get all of the latest specs, including Samsung’s go-to features like wireless charging, waterproofing, and an industry-leading display. Its hardware is typical excellent Samsung design and execution. The dual camera on the Galaxy S9+ is extremely impressive in all lighting conditions, and the 960 fps slow-mo is a crowd pleaser. The phone is of course expensive, but you just can’t skip over considering the latest Galaxy when shopping for a flagship phone.

Bottom line: The Galaxy S9+ is as top-of-the-line as it gets, packed with every feature under sun.

One more thing: The Galaxy S9 is smaller and less expensive, but doesn’t have the same battery life or secondary camera as the GS9+.

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Why the Galaxy S9+ is the best

There’s no better marriage of form and function than the Galaxy S9 and larger S9+. The curved edges on both sides of the phones are engineering marvels, and feel sleek in the hand. The 18.5:9 displays fill almost the entire front of each phone without having to bother with controversial notches, and the dual aperture cameras take phenomenal photos.

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On top of that, there’s no shortage of hardware features, both new and old, on the Galaxy S9. You want wireless charging? You’ve got it. Water resistance? Check. MicroSD expandability, flexible mobile payments, and a headphone jack? All present. There’s even a blood pressure monitor. You may not use every single feature on the Galaxy S9, but it’s always better to have too many features than not enough.

Best runner-up

LG G7 ThinQ

See at T-Mobile

LG continues to play second fiddle to Samsung’s dominance in the flagship smartphone space, but it keeps getting better even though it may not get the same amount of attention. LG’s done with the gimmicks, and is just making great phones — the G7 is the latest that shows how far it’s come.

The G7 has a beautiful metal body, big display, and all of the highest end specs. There are a few neat tricks in the camera and software, plus solid battery life and performance. The only really negative mark on the LG G7 is that it doesn’t do anything particularly better than the Galaxy S9+ does. You can argue it has a better audio experience with a high-end DAC and new speaker setting, and that its wide-angle camera is unique, but other than that Samsung has it matched or beat.

You’ll pay a high price for the LG G7, but when you compare it directly to Samsung’s latest it actually comes out looking alright. At $750 it’s just a little more than the standard Galaxy S9, but in reality competes more with the larger Galaxy S9+ given its bigger screen, bigger battery and dual cameras.

Bottom line: It’s a good all-around phone with an above-average camera and all of the latest specs, for a little less than a Galaxy S9+.

One more thing: If you’re willing to wait, LG has a history of putting its phones on steep discount a handful of months after launch.

Best for less

LG G6

See at T-Mobile

When you’re looking to save some money, LG’s last-generation G6 is a great pick at just $360. Sure it’s over a year old, but this is a wonderful price for the amount of phone you’re getting — a $3-400 phone unlocked is typically filled with compromises, and considering the G6 was a true flagship when it launched in 2017 it has lots of nice-to-have specs and features.

The metal-and-glass body with an extra-tall display still feels modern in 2018, and the internal specs — Snapdragon 821, 4GB RAM, 32GB storage — are still capable of giving you solid performance. You get a headphone jack, wireless charging and water resistance. There’s also a really good dual camera setup on the back that was one of the top performers in its time.

Bottom line: For half the cost of a Galaxy S9, you can get last year’s LG G6 which is still a great device for the money.

One more thing: When you buy a phone that’s well over a year old, you have to expect few (if any) software updates going forward.

Update July 2018: The Galaxy S9+ is still T-Mobile’s best phone, alongside its smaller version the standard Galaxy S9. The LG G7 ThinQ is a good alternative for a little less money, and if you want to save even more, the last-generation LG G6 is a great choice.

Smart microwaves, Philips Hue starter kits, Bluetooth speakers, and more are all discounted today

Whether you’re looking for new tech gear or household items, we’ve got you covered.

We found plenty of great deals today that include big discounts on a GE microwave and Echo Dot bundle, a 2-bulb Philips Hue starter kit, a portable Bluetooth speaker, and more! Time’s running out to take advantage of these prices, so hurry!

View the rest of the deals

If you want to know about the deals as soon as they are happening, you’ll want to follow Thrifter on Twitter, and sign up for the newsletter, because missing out on a great deal stinks!

Instagram now shows you when friends are online

A simple tool that makes it easier to chat.

The Instagram app is loaded with all sorts of features these days, one of which is the ability to send direct messages to friends and family members. Thanks to a new update that’s rolling out, it’ll now be easier to get in touch with friends right away.

Starting today, you’ll begin to see a small green icon next to people within Instagram that indicates they’re online and actively using the app.

This indicator will be present just about everywhere you go, including your inbox for direct messages and your friends list when sharing a post you see on your main feed.

If you don’t want that indicator showing up by your name, you can jump into the new Activity Status section of the app and toggle off the Show Activity Status option.

Download: Instagram (free)

iFixit Tests Silicone Membrane on 2018 MacBook Pro Keyboard With Dust Exposure

Following the release of the new 2018 MacBook Pro models, iFixit last week tore apart the 13-inch version and discovered the presence of a new silicone membrane underneath the keyboard’s butterfly keys that Apple internal documents have since confirmed has been added to prevent dust and other small particulates from causing key failures.

To give us a better look at the new third-generation butterfly keyboard included in the new 2018 machines and how it works, iFixit has done a much deeper dive, exposing the keyboard to debris to test it out.

iFixit exposed the keyboard to a powdered paint additive that glows, allowing the site to track where and how dust accumulates. On the 2018 MacBook Pro keyboard, the dust settled at the edges of the membrane, leaving the butterfly mechanism of the keys protected. The same test was performed on the 2017 MacBook Pro keyboard, demonstrating less protection.

Lo and behold, the dust is safely sequestered at the edges of the membrane, leaving the mechanism fairly sheltered. The holes in the membrane allow the keycap clips to pass through, but are covered by the cap itself, blocking dust ingress. The previous-gen butterfly keys are far less protected, and are almost immediately flooded with our glowing granules.

With a combination of a lot of dust and aggressive typing, the dust did penetrate the membrane-covered key clips, hitting the top of the switch, suggesting that there’s still a small potential for failure. iFixit was indeed able to cause the keyboard to fail by adding “a few poorly placed particles” of sand.

While the silicone membrane does not appear to be impenetrable, and there’s no way to tell how the barrier will hold up over time as iFixit points out, it’s still more protection than offered in earlier versions of the butterfly keyboard.

Following the dust test, iFixit did a more extensive teardown of the new keyboard, tearing it apart layer by layer. After a grueling experience pulling it apart, which explains why Apple has to replace the entire top case when installing a new keyboard, iFixit found that the silicone barrier is a single die-cut and molded sheet.

The keycaps on the keyboard have also been slightly redesigned, measuring in at 1.25mm thickness compared to 1.5mm thickness in the 2017 MacBook Pro, which iFixit suggests is to give the keys room to travel with the addition of the membrane.

The spacebar has been redesigned, with a keycap that easily separates from the butterfly mechanism, a departure from earlier models where the spacebar was more difficult to remove. All of the keys, spacebar included, were easier to remove and harder to ruin, in iFixit’s testing.

Apple has not publicly confirmed that the new third-generation butterfly keyboard was introduced to enhance reliability and to cut down on the the key failures that were seen in 2016 and 2017 machines, though the company has informed Apple Authorized Service Providers that this is the case.

Instead, in its 2018 MacBook Pro marketing materials, Apple claims the new silicone barrier was added to introduce a quieter typing experience, an issue that few people seem to have had with the original keyboards.

Related Roundup: MacBook ProTag: iFixitBuyer’s Guide: MacBook Pro (Buy Now)
Discuss this article in our forums

Apple Launches New Summertime Savings Apple Pay Promotion

Apple today launched a new Apple Pay promotion called Summertime Savings, offering a range of discounts on Apple Pay purchases made within select apps or on select websites from July 19 to August 1.

Participating companies include Fandango, Groupon, Grubhub, Hotels.com, Houzz, and more, with a full list of discounts below:

• Fandango: $5 off 2 or more movie tickets
• Groupon: 20% off local deals in the Groupon app (up to $40)
• Grubhub: $10 off first order of $15 or more
• Hotels.com: 10% off bookings in the Hotels.com app
• Houzz: Free shipping on top lighting, rugs, and furniture
• RueLaLa: $10 credit towards your next purchase
• Seamless: $10 off your first order of $15 or more
• StubHub: $10 off purchases of $100 or more in the StubHub app

To get these discounts, customers will need to use Apple Pay as the payment method when making a purchase within a participating app or on a participating website using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that works with Apple Pay.

There may be additional restrictions with these offers, which are outlined by Apple’s partners when redeeming a deal. The discounts will be available through August 1.

Related Roundup: Apple Pay
Discuss this article in our forums

OpenSignal names T-Mobile the best mobile network in almost all categories

According to the latest OpenSignal report, T-Mobile takes first place for fastest 4G download speed and all other categories. — except two. As with last year’s report, the carrier was beat out by AT&T, which snagged the top spot for latency. T-Mobile also tied with Verizon for 4G availability.

OpenSignal monitors the performance of mobile networks using crowdsourced data with the OpenSignal app. The app compares the performance of networks in surrounding areas and tests the speed of the mobile connections.

This quarter’s report collected more than 8 billion measurements from over 385,679 devices throughout a 90-day test period between the months of March and June. The analysis compares 4G LTE speed, 4G availability, and more, offered by T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint.

Overall, average 4G download speeds have increased amongst all four carriers. Verizon and T-Mobile specifically, have surpassed 20Mbps for average 4G download speeds. Sprint and AT&T both trail closely behind at 14.46Mbps and 15.08Mbps, respectively.

While T-Mobile wins for 4G and 3G download speed, along with 4G upload speed, it’s still struggling with 4G latency. AT&T managed to win the award with an average response time of 54.1 milliseconds on its LTE networks — over 4ms since the last six months.

In OpenSignal’s last report, T-Mobile managed to beat Verizon for the top spot for 4G availability by half a percentage point. This time around, both carriers were tied for first place. But there was still some progress made — the report shows that T-Mobile’s 4G availability has increased by half a percentage point. This could be due to the fact that the carrier has been using low-frequency airwaves to expand its LTE reach. Verizon, on the other hand, has been highlighting its improvements via a new TV ad campaign.

Even though they didn’t manage to take the top two spots, AT&T and Sprint did see availability gains. AT&T’s availability score grew from 87 percent to 88.4 percent in six months. Sprint saw the biggest increase amongst the four carriers, rising two full percentage points to 87.7 percent.

Both carriers also experienced similar results for 4G speeds. While AT&T saw a decrease in the category after reintroducing unlimited plans last year, the carrier managed to grow its LTE download speed over 17 percent over the last year — bringing it to 15.1Mbps.

But the biggest year-over-year increase was from Sprint, who had a 48 percent jump bringing its LTE download connection to 14.5Mbps. If Sprint continues on the same path, it could jump to third place in OpenSignal’s next report.

While the report proves that T-Mobile is the fastest network as of right now, it’s clear Sprint has made some significant improvements. The advancements come only a few months after the carrier announced its agreement to merge with T-Mobile. The merger could mean an improvement in overall 5G wireless technology, which promises pervasive connectivity and faster speeds.

Editors’ Recommendations

• Everything you need to know about the T-Mobile and Sprint merger
• Verizon doesn’t care about Sprint and T-Mobile merger
• T-Mobile and Sprint are merging — here’s what it means for you
• Switching to the ‘Un-carrier?’ Here’s a breakdown of T-Mobile’s plans
• Xfinity Mobile will throttle streaming resolution to 480p, hot spots at 3G

The Xiaomi Mi Max 3 has a tablet-sized screen and a huge battery

Remember when the race was on to see who could create the smallest phone in the world? Those days are long gone, and it’s no longer too difficult to find a phone that’s big enough to also double as a tea tray in times of need.

But those phones aren’t big enough for you — you want a truly massive phone. That’s where the Xiaomi Mi Max 3 comes in. With a tablet-sized 6.9-inch screen, the Mi Max 3 is the phone for anyone who really wants a phone bigger than their head. Here’s everything you need to know about the enormous Xiaomi Mi Max 3.

Design and display

First thing’s first — the Xiaomi Mi Max 3’s absolutely enormous display. It’s a 6.9-inch IPS LCD running a 2,160 x 1,080-pixel resolution in an 18:9 resolution. That gives it a pixels-per-inch measurement of 350, making it far from one of the sharpest phones we’ve ever seen, but it should be clear enough for most.

As you might expect, the body is big too, and the Mi Max 3 towers over even the Galaxy Note 8 by over half an inch in height — but thanks to a bezel-less design, it’s not quite approaching small tablet size in footprint. Slim bezels run up the sides of the phone, leading into a fairly slim forehead and chin. Not the slimmest we’ve seen, but not terrible for a midrange phone. The front-facing selfie camera can be found at the top, along with the phone’s earpiece. You’ll find a headphone jack at the top of the device, and a USB-C port at the bottom.

Flip the phone over and you’ll find a dual-lens camera system stacked vertically in the iPhone X-style. Unlike the iPhone though, you’ll also find a fingerprint sensor here, too, placed centrally fairly far up the back of the phone. We’ll have to see whether the extremely large size of the phone means that reaching the sensor will be a chore.

Specs and battery

Key Specs

CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 636

Memory: 4/6GB

Storage: 64/128GB

MicroSD storage: Up to 256GB

Screen size: 6.9 inches

Resolution: 2,160 x 1,080

Connectivity: GSM/CDMA/LTE

Battery: 5,500mAh

Size: 176.2 x 87.4 x 8 mm

Weight: 221 g (7.80 oz)

Operating system: Android 8.1 Oreo (under MIUI 9.5)

Xiaomi’s Mi Max line has traditionally been a midrange offering, despite the size, and the Mi Max 3 is no different in that regard. It’s powered by a Snapdragon 636 processor — the same processor on the speedy Moto Z3 Play — and offers the choice between 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, or 6GB of RAM and a hefty 128GB of storage. While it’s unlikely to be the fastest phone on the block, it’s still likely to deliver good performance.

With those modest midrange specs you might be wondering what the large body of the Mi Max 3 is filled with. Turns out it’s full of extra battery. The Mi Max 3 is packing a massive 5,500mAh battery. Most modern flagships sit around a 3,000mAh battery, with some particularly large batteries hitting 4,000mAh — making the Mi Max 3’s battery utterly enormous. It’s also equipped with QuickCharge 3.0, and Xiaomi claims the battery will charge from empty to 71 percent in an hour.

Software and special features

The phone will ship with Android 8.1 Oreo, but it will be hidden under MIUI 9.5, the latest version of Xiaomi’s Android skin. MIUI isn’t a terrible re-skin of Android, but it’s certainly different, so it’s fair to expect some different-looking menus and settings on the Mi Max 3. However, Xiaomi’s update game is good, and you can probably expect the Mi Max 3 to receive the MIUI updates for Android P and Android Q.

There’s also going to be a raft of special features nestled in the Mi Max 3’s ample body, including A.I. scene recognition in the camera, facial unlocking, and a voice assistant.

Camera

There’s a decent camera suite attached to the Mi Max 3 as well. You’ll find a dual-lens system installed around the back, with a 12-megapixel main lens armed with an f/1.9 aperture. The secondary lens is just 5 megapixels, and will be used primarily for depth-sensing in portrait shots. The Mi Max 3 will apparently also be able to capture 4K video at 30 frames per second, and slow motion video at 120 frames per second, but only at 720p. The selfie shooter around the front will be an 8-megapixel lens with an f/1.7 aperture.

Release date and price

There’s no word on a release date yet, or even of a possible U.S. release. Xiaomi has been vocal about its desire to break into the U.S., so it’s possible this could be the phone to do so. The Xiaomi Mi Max 3 will be available in black, champagne gold, and blue.

Pricing has been revealed, and the 4GB/64GB model will cost 1,699 yuan (about $250), and the 6GB/64GB model will cost 1,999 yuan (around $300).

Editors’ Recommendations

• Xiaomi Mi 6X hints at what’s to come for company’s next Android One phone
• Xiaomi Mi A2: Everything you need to know
• Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S review
• The Xiaomi Mi 8 does the one thing Apple could never figure out

Apple quietly confirms 2018 MacBook Pro keyboard ships with anti-debris design

IFixIt

Even though Apple won’t publicly advertise that its quieter third-generation keyboard contains a fix for the sticky key issues plaguing older MacBook Pro models, the company’s support documents say otherwise. Since announcing the 2018 MacBook Pro, Apple has only promoted a quieter typing experience as a benefit of the new keyboard. In interviews, Apple had denied that its redesigned keyboard come with any fixes to address issues of unresponsive, repeating, or sticky keys that plagued the company’s older laptops, but a newly discovered internal document reveals that the design does address this widely reported keyboard problem.

Apple’s 2018 MacBook Pro Service Readiness Guide distributed to Canadian and European service providers acknowledged that the keyboard contains a membrane underneath each key to keep out dirt and debris. “The keyboard has a membrane under the keycaps to prevent debris from entering the butterfly mechanism,” the document, which was published on MacRumors, stated. “The procedure for the space bar replacement has also changed from the previous model.”

Similarly, Apple’s U.S. service document contains similar language. Apple also cautioned its U.S. service providers to not damage the membrane in any keyboard repairs, which “will result in a top case replacement.”

An analysis of Apple’s older second-generation keyboard with a similar butterfly key switch suggested that keyboard damage could result in expensive out-of-warranty repairs. Because of how the keyboard was integrated with the laptop’s enclosure, repair costs could go as high as $700. The high cost of repair coupled with the widely publicized keyboard failures on Apple’s MacBook and MacBook Pro notebooks resulted in several class-action lawsuits. Apple tried to address the problem by offering a free keyboard repair program on affected models regardless of warranty status. Users were still concerned that even if the keyboard was replaced, without a permanent engineering fix in place, the replaced keyboard could still suffer from a similar failure in the future.

Now, with the new third-generation keyboard design, it appears that Apple has delivered a permanent fix to the keyboard issues, but owners of MacBook Pro models prior to the 2018 refresh are out of luck. Apple had stated in the past that the new keyboard is exclusive to its 2018 MacBook Pro, meaning that it won’t use any parts from the third-generation keyboard in its repair program. If you own a late-2017 MacBook Pro model or earlier with unresponsive keys, Apple will not replace your second-generation keyboard with the new third-generation design. The replacement keyboard won’t come with a silicone membrane, so not only will you not benefit from a quieter typing experience, but your keyboard could still suffer from the same failure that warranted the initial repair.

For now, if you’re in the market for a MacBook Pro and are concerned with reliability issues, you may want to steer clear of Apple’s older models. Given that Apple did not refresh its non-Touch Bar versions of the MacBook Pro, you will also want to skip those configurations, as they don’t come with the new third-generation keyboard design.

Editors’ Recommendations

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