ZTE hired former Trump staffer to lobby against sanctions

Bryan Lanza, former Trump campaign adviser and White House transition team member, hired one day after President Trump announced his intentions via Twitter.

Chinese telecom giant ZTE hired former Trump campaign adviser and Trump White House transition team member Bryan Lanza to negotiate on its behalf to loosen restrictions that prevent the company from doing any business within the US or with US companies.

Per The Hill, Lanza was hired the day after president Trump announced he was working with PRC president Xi Jinping to help ZTE get “back to business” via his Twitter account.

President Xi of China, and I, are working together to give massive Chinese phone company, ZTE, a way to get back into business, fast. Too many jobs in China lost. Commerce Department has been instructed to get it done!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 13, 2018

Lanza, through D.C. lobbying firm Mercury Public Affairs, will “perform government relations and public affairs services, including setting up meetings with U.S. government officials related to U.S. sanctions” on ZTE’s behalf said a spokesperson for the firm, who reported through the Foreign Agents Registration Act on May 24.

ZTE has had a bumpy ride as the House Appropriations Committee put a stop to president Trump influencing the Commerce Department to lift the ban in mid-May, though several media outlets report that insiders have told them a deal between Trump and Xi which restores ZTE’s U.S. businesses is imminent.

ZTE was originally charged with, and admitted guilty to, violating trade sanctions with North Korea and Iran then reportedly not following through with the terms of the original — and far more lenient — judgement order. As a result the company was forbidden to do business with American corporations, which sealed its fate.

Whatever happens, you surely can’t say it hasn’t been interesting.

‘Evolve’ is pulling the plug on its dedicated servers in September

2K Games/Turtle Rock Studios

Evolve, the asymmetrical monster-killing multiplayer game that debuted in 2015 to much fanfare, has been running on life support since Turtle Rock announced it was ending support for the game back in 2016. Now 2K Games is finally putting it out of its misery, announcing in a blog post that it will shutter its dedicated game servers on September 3, 2018.

This means that Stage 2, the free-to-play version of the game for PC, will no longer be available to play or download, and all of the core game features such as ranked games, leaderboards, player profiles, badges, and the in-game store will disappear.

On July 2, virtual currency for in-game items will no longer be available to purchase either. Players are advised to spend their in-game cash before it expires at the September deadline.

The retail version of the game, Legacy Evolve, will continue to live on through peer-to-peer multiplayer on PC and consoles, and any hunters, monsters, or skins you’ve purchased will still be available to use.

Evolve was an ambitious and innovative game that generated a ton of buzz ahead of its February 2015 release. Although there was a single-player component, it was essentially a multiplayer affair, with four space marines ganging up against a huge rampaging monster that evolved as it consumed other creatures.

The potential for a massive hit seemed to be there, but the game didn’t ever seem to break through. Although the reviews were generally positive — we especially liked the “pure, adrenal chaos” of the firefights — the game never really became the phenomenon that many expected.

The early introduction of microtransactions were another big factor. Virtual store shelves filled with pricey add-ons available on launch day soured a lot of people on the game. As the Turtle Rock co-founders put it in a game update announcement, “The DLC shitstorm hit full force and washed away people’s enthusiasm.”

In July 2016, the company tried to reanimate the franchise with Stage 2, a free-to-play model on PC. That didn’t work, and in October of that year the company announced that it was ceasing support for the game, saying that it was “not meant to be.”

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How to reset your router

Casezy/Getty Images

If you’ve been paying attention to news lately, you may have noticed the widespread calls from the FBI and DOJ to reset your home wireless router for security reasons. The warning came following a very thorough Talos Intelligence report on a type of malware called VPNFilter, which infects network routers. Since this malware is relatively new and the average home router doesn’t have much malware detection/prevention software, this was cause for concern.

According to Talos, this includes multiple Linksys, Mikrotik, Netgear, QNAP, and TP-Link routers (and related network devices from these brands). With so many brands affected, it’s no surprise that the FBI took a shortcut and just asked everybody to reset their routers. If you haven’t done it yet, here’s quick rundown on how to handle the router reboot correctly.

Step 1: Physically unplug your router and modem

While your router may have an onboard option called “reset” or “restart,” you should be careful using these, since they may initiate a factory reboot and erase all your current settings. Instead, simply unplug your router and modem from everything they are attached to (including each other and their power sources).

Once unplugged, leave the router alone for about a minute, just to make sure the router is fully cooled off and that your devices have all registered that the Wi-Fi network is indeed down.

Now go back and plug the modem back into its power source. Wait a bit for the modem to warm up and get ready to pass along its sweet internet connection — another minute should do the trick. Now plug the router back into the modem, the outlet, and any other necessary connections. Wait a couple minutes for the router to shake hands with everyone and establish your wireless internet signal once again.

Step 2: Update your firmware

The firmware is the integral software that keeps your router functioning. While router firmware doesn’t upgrade as often as something like computer operating systems, it does receive occasional updates, especially when there’s a big security problem. Your next step should be to download any new router firmware so that your router vulnerability, if present, is patched. For this, you will need your router login information.

Typically there is an app or an administrator site that you can use to check for firmware and then download it. Here’s how to access Linksys setup. Here’s how to do it with TP-Link, and with Netgear. We also have a more in-depth guide for common router brand logins. Every brand of router, even the obscure ones, should have their own instructions to access these administrator tools. One of the options when logged in is will be “Firmware Update,” “Router Update” or a similar option. Choose this option and follow instructions.

Please note that when the router uploads and implements the firmware patch, you won’t be able to use your Wi-Fi. This doesn’t usually take longer than around five minutes, but it’s still good to keep in mind. Never try to turn off or mess with your router while the firmware is updating, since this could cause serious problems.

Step 3: Update any related apps

Many modern routers offer apps that you can download on mobile devices and used to manage your router settings or view router usage reports.

If you use one of these apps, then you should also visit your app settings and make sure that the app is fully updated to the most recent version. It’s a small but important step you should take.

Step 4: Change your password

Do you still use the default password for your router settings? Since you just logged into administrator controls, you probably have a good idea. Many of us are guilty of keeping the default password set for all that administrator stuff, since we rarely use it. Unfortunately, this makes it much easier to hacker a router, and since there have now been big news stories about router hacking, a lot of hackers will be perking up and wondering if they should get in on the action.

That means now is the perfect reason to switch from the default password to a robust password of your own creation. The same administrator tools that helped you update your firmware can help you change your password, too. Look for an option to change the password or login information. Since you don’t use this password often, make sure you write it down somewhere secure as you make it.

All right, your router should be updated, rebooted, and more secure now.

Editors’ Recommendations

• FBI: Reboot, reset your router immediately to prevent cyberattacks
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‘Wingman’ matchmaking app makes dating less dreadful for you and your friends

App Attack is a weekly series where we search the App Store and Google Play Store for the best apps of the week. Check out App Attack every other Sunday for the latest.

Dating in 2018 is an interesting concept — it’s more likely a couple has met online first, and in real-life second. But for those who are still too hesitant to jump on the dating app train, we have an app that might give you the nudge you need — with the help of a friend.

Wingman, available for iOS and Android, isn’t your typical dating app. Rather than signing up on your own, you get to recruit a friend to sign up and create your profile for you. Based on the concept of an actual “wingman,” the app allows your friends to take control over who you match with and helps make swiping left and right feel like less of a chore.

Upon first discovering the app, I immediately had to text one of my closest friends — who also happens to be my roommate. Having been friends for over two years now, we’re both very well aware of one another’s dating history. But now that we live together, there’s no avoiding either hearing about or even meeting the guys we go on dates on. The routine always remains the same too — we discuss our opinions of how we felt about each other’s guy because at times, we trust one another’s instincts more than our own.

That’s why when Wingman‘s founder, Tina Wilson, told me the story of how she thought of the idea, I found comfort in the fact that both my roommate and I aren’t any different from others trying to navigate the dating scene.

“I was never comfortable dating online. Most of my single friends were in relationships … they were unable to come out on the single circuit with me, yet they were always very interested in my dating life and wanted to support my journey” Wilson told Digital Trends, “When I finally got online, they were my champions — sitting alongside me helping me write my profile, choosing who I should go out with. I remember thinking it’d be really cool if we were able to do this remotely.”

Wilson’s experience heavily reminds me of my friends in long-term relationships, who find it entertaining to take my phone and swipe through for my dating apps for me simply because they miss how fun it was. With Wingman, you’re able to do the same but actually make some progress rather than absentmindedly go through the motions.

That’s why when my roommate actually downloaded the app and invited me to be her Wingman, I was excited to help. Once you accept the invite, you’re able to start filling out all the information about your single friend. This might’ve been the part I was most nervous about — after all, writing about how you actually feel about your friend can either make or break the friendship.

But it had to be done — so we both sat on my bed as I started nervously crafting a short bio. Of course, she wanted to approve of it so when I felt confident in what I wrote, I handed over my phone. She was excited about it, and I’m almost positive I heard the words “this is spot on.” To add to the bio, you’re provided with a short questionnaire of about three questions where you can choose between what your friend likes most.

Aside from adding a bio, the only other information you get to choose from is whether your friend is into men, women, or both, along with your relationship to the person and how long you’ve known them. As for filters, there aren’t many in comparison to other dating apps like Hinge, which allow you to pick from a plethora of things you like and dislike. With Wingman, all you can filter is the distance settings and age settings — which Wilson expressed was done on purpose.

“In the first iteration of [Wingman], there were so many options, so many things you could do. When we actually put that out and started testing it, I think people were confused … I think because it’s different, it doesn’t have anything that is comparable to it … we had to really make sure it was clear what people were doing,” Wilson said. Essentially, she expressed that she wanted “to keep it really simple [and] to create a platform that enables us to introduce our friends to great people, and have some fun along the way.”

Simplifying the process made the setup far more enjoyable — since we signed up through Facebook we didn’t have to upload additional photos. Once everything was complete, the swiping began. The experience was definitely an interesting one — after all, her fate basically lies in my hands. I found myself having to thoroughly think through each and every swipe knowing that I now had her trust to pick a good one. She’s also able to swipe through potential matches as well, but can’t actually pick “like” or “dislike.” It will instead send the potential candidate to me and then I’m able to make the final call on whether I swipe right or left.

Since Wingman has only been around in the U.S. since January, there weren’t too many guys to swipe through. I often found myself having to increase the distance or the age range in order to find more options. Hopefully, the user-base will increase over time and provide far more choices without me having to constantly switch up my settings (after all, I remember having the same experience with Hinge and even Bumble when both apps first came out). It also didn’t keep me from swiping before I went to bed or even while on the subway.

When you do swipe right on someone, your friend’s profile is immediately sent to that person. If they’re interested as well and it’s a match, then your friend automatically connects to them and can start a conversation. Unfortunately, you can’t insert yourself into whatever it is they’re talking about (although I wish you could). You’ll probably instead receive screenshots of the conversation from your friend and can help from there. Or, if you’re me, you’re lucky enough to the live with the person and can watch the conversation happen in real time!

As of now, I have yet to fulfill my duty as a Wingman by finding “the one right now,” but the search continues. We’ll definitely update this article if we experience any Wingman success stories.

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Fitbit fitness trackers, Bluetooth headphones, and an air fryer 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 Fitbit fitness trackers and smartwatches, a pair of Plantronics wireless headphones, a Philips air fryer, 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!

WWDC 2018 Conference Swag Includes Levi’s Jacket and New Apple-Themed Pins

With one day to go before Apple’s WWDC keynote, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Pacific Time, some developers have been sharing the contents of their conference swag bags on social media. Like last year, the items include a Levi’s denim jacket and a collection of Apple-themed enamel pins.

IT. IS. ON. #WWDC pic.twitter.com/iAmRcBvjLR

— Paul Hudson (@twostraws) June 3, 2018

Apple introduced the popular pin packs at WWDC 2017 and kicked off collections with the old rainbow-themed Apple logo, the “hello” Mac greeting, the Swift and Metal logos, the original Macintosh, and emojis. Attendees also received a flag pin of their home country.

This year Apple has added several new pins to the mix, including an Animoji bear, a “mind-blown” emoji, a peace sign emoji a dog cow, and a California pin, amongst others.

The Levi’s trucker jacket comes in black, includes fits and sizes for both men and women, and has two interior pockets large enough to fit an iPhone 8 Plus.

In a subtle change from last year, Apple has ditched the usual embroidered WWDC logo on the jacket and gone for a small WWDC 2018 pin instead, allowing owners to remove any reference to the conference if they so wish.

MacRumors will be in attendance at the keynote, with live coverage of the event beginning shortly after 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Stay tuned to MacRumors.com and our @MacRumorsLive account on Twitter. We’ve also put together a guide explaining all the ways you can watch Apple’s WWDC18 Keynote live as it happens.

Tag: WWDC 2018
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OneLogin Efforts in Enhancing Cloud Security

Manufacturing companies in Canada and US are facing challenges in managing the roles of the diverse portfolio of users and applications. They are also experiencing difficulties addressing the evolving security that comes with expanding user access. Outlined below are critical factors information technology and security teams require to look at when coming up with an access management plan.

Third-Party Risk

Companies have invested in virtual working systems allowing employees to access information from any location. Supply chain partners use their accounts to get the entity apps, data, and networks. Managing the complex systems tend to be difficult. Organizations should maintain a strategy for distributing application permission and access. They ought to note the costs and likelihood of potential security threats.

Key to Digital Transformation

Producers should have a cost-effective and secure strategy to connect the growing numbers of applications and users. Increased user access can lead to business agility. However, if not well implemented, it can have negative effects such as security risks like critical systems disruption and data breaches. Studies show that compromised or weak user credentials are other alarming issues an organization needs to consider.

Cyber Attacks Cost

Manufacturers handle sensitive information like business plans, blueprints, schematics, and partner agreements. Cyber attackers target such firms putting the companies at risk of losing vulnerable data. Reports confirm that manufacturers experience the highest phishing attacks in the sector. A single identity data breach in the industry can cost the company a fortune.

Cutting Operational Cost

The high identity management cost is bogging down manufacturers. System users are likely to forget passwords, leading to low productivity. The IT department has to keep on resetting their passwords, hence slowing down operations. Managing a large number of external users means more disparate directories, complex identity management methods, and complicated application rollouts. Manufacturers need to acquire an Identity and Access Management (IAM) system to cut the operations cost.

Manufacturing companies ought to invest in a solution that supports their diversity, complexity, and scale of their users and applications. OneLogin is a reputable firm known for delivering security apps to manufacturers. It provides real-time Active Directory integration, single sign on (SSO), and multifactor authentication (MFA). Users of these services sign in to their portals once per day, and they can access it from any location without logging in again. OneLogin offers access to both cloud and on-premises companies.

About OneLogin

OneLogin, Inc. is a virtual Identity and Access Management company. It tailors its services to fit the needs of organizations. The IAM provider aims at using Identity and Access Management to secure devices and apps for user access. In addition, OneLogin aims at increasing user efficiency through SSO (single sign on), and multifactor authentication (MFA). The organization has launched products like Open Source SAML Toolkits to boost security measures. It integrates with various cloud apps like RemedyForce and Workplace by Facebook.

OneLogin was established in 2009 by Thomas and Christian Pedersen in San Francisco. The founders were previously working on Zendesk, an on-demand help desk app, before starting OneLogin. Zendesk customers were experiencing productivity and security challenges moving to virtual operations. The Pedersen’s got the idea of establishing an identity and access management solution company to help such clients.

In 2010, OneLogin was officially launched. Brad Brooks was appointed the CEO of the firm in 2017. Since its inception, OneLogin has won the trust of numerous security-conscious enterprises worldwide.

 

Mark your calendars — more than 150 new emojis are coming on June 5

Your vocabulary is about to expand. And you won’t even need to pick up a dictionary. Come Tuesday, June 5, we’ll be blessed with the arrival of more than 150 new emojis, which will come as part of Unicode Version 11.0. These new emojis will help you express yourself via text in new ways, and will feature a wide range of new faces, as well as animals, objects, and symbols.

In total, there will be 157 new emojis. Folks with red or grey  hair will be pleased to know that they are now represented by these little images, and no longer will you only have the option of sending a straight-haired emoji. That’s right, friends — curly hair is finally here, as are emojis with no hair at all. So if you want to send a bald man to your dad, have at it.

There are also cold and hot faces to express your displeasure at the weather, as well as superheroes and villains depending on how you’re feeling on any given day, and a new leg, foot, and party face.

It’s not just humans that are newly represented in Unicode Version 11.0. There are also 10 new animals, like a peacock, a hippopotamus, and just in time for summer, a mosquito. As for non-living objects, there is the addition of a bar of  soap, a lab coat, and a particularly science-forward strand of DNA. If you’re looking for something a bit less academic, you might also find a skateboard, chess pawn, and a pirate flag.

And of course, no emoji update would be complete without a few new food items. In the latest version, we’re granted access to a cupcake and  a mango.

Before you get too excited about sending these emojis to your friends and family members, keep in mind that companies will have to add Unicode 11 support before you’re able to access the new images. We can expect Apple and Google to update their operating systems, and companies like Twitter to provide support as well. After all, when there’s a new crop of emojis on the horizon, we’re only too eager to begin using them.

Editors’ Recommendations

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GitHub may soon join the Microsoft family – tech giant considers an acquisition

GitHub may soon fall under the wide umbrella of Microsoft. As per a report from Business Insider, the Redmond-based tech giant has been in discussions with the software developer platform in the last several weeks with hopes of making a rather major acquisition.

It’s unclear what the price tag of such a deal may be, though GitHub was most recently valued at $2 billion when it raised its last round of funding in 2015. However, three years later, that valuation may have ballooned, and the acquisition could set Microsoft back as much as $5 billion, according to an estimate from CNBC.

A source with insights into the ongoing negotiations told CNBC that the deal first came about as a result of discussions around a joint $35 million marketing partnership. However, this potential partnership has since evolved into a possible acquisition, though the source claimed that GitHub’s asking price “was more than Microsoft currently wanted to pay.”

GitHub is one of the most popular platforms in the software development world today. Many engineers use the site to store their code, keep tabs on updates, and even use it as a discussion forum. The company currently boasts more than 23 million individual users, and representation from more than 1.5 million organizations. As of last fall, GitHub was well on its way to make more than $200 million in subscription revenue.

Apparently, this isn’t the first time that Microsoft has considered purchasing GitHub. Most recently, these rumors floated about in 2016, though GitHub has always refuted these claims. In any case, it would certainly be a strategic move for Microsoft, which has a substantial developer base of its own. By purchasing GitHub, the company could increase adoption of its wide-ranging software, like Windows 10 (which recently hit a big adoption milestone) and the Azure cloud  platform. And as CNBC points out, data from GitHub could  also help Microsoft better its artificial intelligence capabilities.

Neither company has commented on the reports, and as we’ve mentioned, it’s unclear whether or not talks are still ongoing or if this rumor will actually come to fruition. In any case, we will be sure to keep you abreast of updates as the story develops.

Editors’ Recommendations

• From evil empire to role model, Microsoft builds its claim to the high ground
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Best Google Pixel 2 Accessories

Make the best phone even better.

When the Pixel 2 was announced, Google launched a ‘Made for Google’ certification partnership with a wide range of accessory manufacturers to ensure there’s a good selection of accessories for its flagship.

The best place to find certified Pixel 2 accessories is straight from the source — the Google Store. They offer proprietary accessories along with some third-party products, but there are also deals to be found on Amazon.

• Google-designed cases
• Peel Super Thin Pixel 2 Case
• Moment Photo Case & Wide Lens Kit
• Libratone Q Adapt USB-C Earphones
• USB-C Digital to 3.5mm headphone adapter
• dB MAGIX Mini Hi-Res Headphone Amplifier
• 18W USB-C Power Adapter
• Anker PowerLine USB-C cables [3-pack]
• Belkin USB-C Car Charger

Google-designed cases

Google has partnered with a number of different case manufacturers to get accessories certified as ‘Made for Google’, just another way for Pixel 2 owners to be confident in their accessory purchases.

Right now, there’s a limited number of third-party accessories available, but If you’re planning to order your phone straight from the source you should check out the cases designed in-house by Google.

Best Cases for the Google Pixel 2

For the Google Live cases there are two case types to choose between — a slim one-piece shell or a more rugged dual-layer case. No matter which you go with, you get to customize the back of your Pixel 2 with a stunning shot from your own photo roll, from Google Earth, or sample a work of art.

Each Google Earth case can be paired with a matching live wallpaper for a cohesive look around your device that just looks gorgeous. And if you opt for the dual-layer case, you’ll be getting enhanced drop protection when compared to a single-layer case. Find yours starting at $50.

Another compelling option is the Google Fabric Cases which brings the look and most importantly the feel of that fabric finish found on other Google products, like the Home Mini and Daydream View. These cases offer a premium microfiber liner and will keep your Pixel 2 looking like a standout device no matter which color combination you decide on. They’re also available for $50.

See at Google Store

Peel Super thin Pixel 2 Case

If you’re looking for a way to protect the finish on your Pixel 2 with no extra bulk and no graphics or branding of any kind, Peel’s Super Thin Pixel 2 Case is exactly what you’re looking for.

This .35mm thin case is precision cut and formed to fit perfectly on your Pixel 2 and fits more like a glove than a traditional case. Once in place, you’ll barely notice it’s there while you’re using or carrying your phone but will definitely notice that your expensive Pixel 2 isn’t getting scratched up from rubbing against other things in your pocket or a table.

Take it from us: the back glass on your Pixel 2 will scratch if you give it a chance. Peel’s Super thin Case is the perfect medium between nothing at all and a thick case for people who just aren’t into cases.

See at Peel

Moment Photo Case & Wide Lens Kit

Photography is a big feature on the Pixel line, and the Pixel 2’s camera is positioned to be the best on the market. If you’re #teampixel, get ready to take your photos to the next level with the Moment Photo case, which lets you quickly and securely attach peripheral lenses to enhance the Pixel 2’s already outstanding camera setup.

Google is selling the Moment Photo case which includes an 18mm wide-angle lens made from premium materials that let the Pixel 2 camera capture more in crystal clarity. The case itself is pretty basic as a phone protector, but the lens is top-notch and accounts for the majority of the $130 price tag you can bet that this case is mostly a vessel for the high-quality camera lenses that Moment makes for mobile.

Check out Moment for more fancy camera lenses for your fancy new phone — Macro, Telephoto, and Super Fisheye. Quite the investment, but might be worth it if you want to add some uniqueness to your ‘Gram game.

See at Google Store

Libratone Q Adapt USB-C Earphones

With the Pixel 2 ditching the headphone jack many of us are looking for a new set of headphones or earbuds. There are plenty of choices when it comes to wireless headphones, but if you’d rather go with USB-C connectivity, Libratone has a great pair in the Google Store.

The Libratone Q Adapt USB-C Earphones were built to work perfectly with the Pixel 2 and deliver clear, clean sound without the hassle of pairing or recharging. With a braided cable and multiple tips, these earbuds will fit almost everyone and are built to last. They also include Libratone’s four-stage CityMix active noise cancellation that you can control through the four-button inline remote or through the Libratone Android app.

You can also trigger Google Assistant through the remote if you need some help picking out a song.

See at Google Store

USB-C Digital to 3.5mm headphone adapter

You may notice that a number of these accessory recommendations are centralized around coping with the loss of the headphone jack, a feature which many still consider an essential smartphone feature. Google will be including a headphone adapter with the new phones but look at that thing — assuming you’re not going to keep it plugged in all the time, there’s a good chance of this thing getting lost.

If that happens, you may need to bite the bullet and get a new one — for $20. Might be a good idea to buy a spare from the get-go and keep it in a safe place.

See at Google Store

dB MAGIX Mini Hi-Res Headphone Amplifier

Maybe you already have a good pair of headphones and aren’t ready to ditch them for a wireless option. You’re not alone and this little jewel of a headphone adapter can make those headphones sound better than ever.

The dB magix Mini Hi-Res Headphone Amplifier is the size of a regular USB-C to 3.5mm adapter but it packs a punch with a premium DAC and amp inside that outputs 2 volts worth of audio with a total harmonic distortion of just 0.0003%. That means it will drive almost any pair of cans and sound great while doing it.

It’s plug-and-play with any device using a USB-C port and best of all will bring premium audio support to your Pixel 2 for just $60.

See at Amazon

18W USB-C Power Adapter

It’s always a good idea to stick with the charging accessories that came with your phone, and especially so with the claims Google has made regarding the Pixel 2 — seven hours of battery life after just 15 minutes on the juice.

Since you’re probably gonna need some extra charging accessories anyways, you can’t go wrong doubling up on the 18W USB-C Power Adapter. Of course, we’ll be keeping an eye out for any certified 27W chargers that might offer even quicker charging speeds.

See at Google Store

Anker PowerLine USB-C cables [3-pack]

So you’re at a party and your phone is dying, and you ask around to see if anyone has a charging cable. If you’re lucky, someone may have a USB-C cable, but it’s not a guarantee.

That’s why you ought to grab this three pack of USB-A to USB-C cables from Anker. Beyond the cables that came with your phone, Anker is one third-party accessory maker that you can trust. The pack includes three 3-foot cables that offer transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps, and they’re also backed by Anker’s worry-free lifetime warranty.

Available for just $14, it breaks down to under $5 per cable. Keep one at work, one in your car, and one in your laptop bag so you’ll always have a spare charging cable nearby wherever you are!

See at Amazon

Belkin USB-C Car Charger

Keeping your phone charged while you’re on the go is important. Everyone hates when you realize you forgot to charge your phone and it’s time to go.

The Belkin USB-C Car Charger is a great option for the Pixel 2 that’s been promoted on the Google Store. It plugs right into the 12V port your car and offers two charging ports — a hardwired USB-C cable and a USB-A port for charging a second device.

You’ll be able to maximize your charging speeds thanks to Belkin’s 15W universal charging system that automatically detects and delivers the optimal charging speed for your Pixel 2. Get yours from Amazon for just $17 — a great price compared to what Google is selling this accessory for.

See at Amazon

What sorts of accessories are you looking for?

Did you get a Pixel 2? What are the go-to accessories you buy alongside a new phone? Let us know in the comments!

Updated June 2018: We’ve updated our list to ensure you have the best Pixel 2 accessories, including the Libratone Q Adapt USB-C earphones and the Peel 2 case!

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

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