Should you upgrade to the Galaxy Note 9 from the Pixel 2 XL?

The switch from Google to Samsung is now more tempting than ever.

Google’s Pixel 2 XL is still holding up incredibly well despite coming up on its first birthday, but even with that being the case, Samsung’s brand-new Galaxy Note 9 is likely giving all Android owners at least some level of envy.

The Pixel 3 XL will be here is just a few short weeks, but whether you can’t stand its oversized notch or just want an upgrade this very second, the Note 9 is proving to get a lot of pre-orders from former Pixel fans.

Just check out the AC forums to see what we mean!

jmartin
08-17-2018 12:03 AM

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I’m trading in my Pixel 2 XL for the 450 mainly out of laziness. I think I could get an extra hundred out of Swappa, etc. Up to you.

Reply

TheDonJ77
08-18-2018 07:10 PM

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I was holding out to see what the P3XL was bringing to the table but not so sure anymore after the endless massive notch leaks. I went into BB the other day and my God, the Note 9 is BEAUTIFUL. The screen runs circles around my PXL2 and the cameras are great. Samsung is offering $450 instant trade in for the Pixel 2 so there’s that. Brings down the cost of the phone to about 550 outright. Soooooo…

Reply

KillerQ
08-18-2018 09:41 PM

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Yea, it’s funny, because after using what was probably the best all-around phone available (the Pixel 2XL), as soon as I went hands on with the new Note 9, I was blown away instantly…that’s all the convincing I needed!

Reply

ihbsbA
08-19-2018 10:24 PM

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I have gone from Note 7 to pixel one, then pixel 2 and skipped the Note 8… I’m kind of anxious to get the nine. After all of this time on the pixel I didn’t realize how much I loved the screen on Samsung devices. For whatever reason, I also happen to love the pictures that the Samsung line takes better than the pixel…go figure..

I’ll install the lawnchair launcher and have it look like…

Reply

What say you? Are you keeping your Pixel 2 XL or upgrading to the Note 9?

Join the conversation in the forums!

Samsung Galaxy Note 9

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

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Samsung Galaxy Watch vs. Gear S2: Should you upgrade?

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch is powerful, but the Gear S2 holds up surprisingly well.

If you’ve got an Android phone, one of the dominant forces in the smartwatch market is Samsung. The company’s Tizen operating system and unique hardware design have allowed for some truly excellent wearables over the years, and in 2018, Samsung’s big smartwatch is the Galaxy Watch.

The Galaxy Watch has a lot going for it, but for owners of the Gear S2 from 2015, is it worth the $329 upgrade?

Let’s find out!

What the Galaxy Watch does better

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch is its newest wearable gadget, and as such, you’ll find all of the latest available tech packed inside of it.

The two biggest upgrades you get with the Galaxy Watch lies with its performance and battery endurance. Samsung’s using an “optimized” Exynos 9110 processor to power the Watch, allowing for faster app-loading times, UI navigation, and more compared to the dual-core 1GHz Pega-W CPU of the Gear S2.

The Galaxy Watch has just about everything you could ask for in a modern smartwatch.

That “optimized” processor also means you won’t have to charge the Galaxy Watch as frequently. While the Gear S2’s 250 mAh battery only lasts for about a day, the Galaxy Watch has a reported 5 days of use before needing to hit the charger.

The Galaxy Watch also ships with Tizen 4.0 out of the box — a new version of Samsung’s wearable operating system that likely won’t ever make it to the 3-year-old Gear S2. Tizen 4.0 looks a lot like previous versions of the OS but offers a stronger focus on fitness with the ability to record 40 different workouts and auto-detect seven of the most popular ones. Speaking of fitness, the Galaxy Watch even has a built-in GPS chip.

Last but certainly not least, the Galaxy Watch comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes (the Gear S2 is only available in 42mm) and has 5 ATM water resistance with Corning’s new Gorilla Glass DX+ display that’s built specifically for smartwatch wear and tear.

See at Samsung

What the Gear S2 still does well

The Gear S2 is certainly getting up in its years, but that’s not to say it should automatically be thrown to the curb. In fact, it holds up quite well to the Galaxy Watch in some regards.

This past March, Samsung updated the Gear S2 with a completely refreshed UI, more robust fitness-tracking features, Gear VR controller support, and more. I wouldn’t hold my breath for Tizen 4.0 to make its way to the Gear S2, but in its current form, it’s essentially running the same exact software found on the Gear Sport that was just released last October.

As for hardware features, the Gear S2 has a heart-rate monitor, support for Samsung Pay using NFC, Samsung’s excellent rotating bezel, and an optional 3G model that’s still sold at some U.S. carriers.

Should you upgrade?

Considering the Gear S2’s age, it’s kind of remarkable as to just how well it’s held up over the years. It still looks great compared to more recent smartwatches, has many of the same hardware features, and Samsung’s commitment to sending software updates its way has allowed it to get even better with age — something we seldom see in this field.

If you’re still holding onto your Gear S2 and don’t feel like throwing down $329 on the Galaxy Watch, you can keep using it without missing out on too much.

On the flip side, if you’ve got the cash to spend, the Galaxy Watch has everything that makes the Gear S2 great with a faster processor, considerably better battery life, GPS, and will see better software support going down the road.

What do you plan on doing? Are you going to pick up the Galaxy Watch? Let us know in the comments below!

Samsung Galaxy Watch: Everything you need to know

OnePlus 5 and 5T get Project Treble with OxygenOS 5.1.5 update

Have a OnePlus phone? Here’s what’s new with your latest update.

OxygenOS is the software that powers OnePlus phones, and even if you’re not enrolled in the Open Beta, it’s still frequently updated with new features and bug fixes to keep an eye out for.

It can be tough to keep track of what’s new, so we’ll be updating this guide with each new OxygenOS update that’s rolled out.

August 22, 2018 — August security patch and Project Treble come to the OnePlus 5 and 5T

OnePlus has started pushing the OyxgenOS 5.1.5 update to the OnePlus 5 and 5T, and at first glance, the official changelog looks pretty barebones:

• Updated Android security patch to August 2018
• Confirm lock screen PIN without tapping the checkmark (Settings -> Security and lock screen -> Screen lock-> PIN)

However, thanks to numerous reports on Reddit and confirmation from our friends at Android Police, it would appear that this update also brings Project Treble to all 5 and 5T owners.

Project Treble previously came to these phones as part of the OyxgenOS Open Beta back in early July, so it’s exciting to see that OnePlus is now bringing this feature to the official public build of the OS.

Google designed Project Treble to make it easier for OEMs to update their phones to new Android versions, and should everything go as we hope, this will allow the 5 and 5T to be updated to Android 9 Pie in a timely manner.

August 15, 2018 — OnePlus 6 gets better HDR camera performance and a fix for screen flickering

OxygenOS 5.1.11 is rolling out now to the OnePlus 6, and there are a couple big highlights that users should be quite excited to see.

For one thing, this new software further improves the HDR mode for the OP6’s already great camera. Along with this, there’s also a fix for a screen flickering issue that various owners have been complaining about.

Other goodies included with this update are:

• Optimizations for network connections
• Better stability for Wi-Fi connections
• Confirm your lock screen PIN without tapping the checkmark (Settings -> Security and lock -> PIN)
• General bug fixes and improvements

July 30, 2018 — Improved photo clarity, group messaging, and more come to OnePlus 5/5T with OxygenOS 5.1.4

The OnePlus 5 and 5T are getting a new OTA update to OxygenOS 5.1.4, and while it’s not a particularly large upgrade, there are still a few welcome changes we’re excited to see.

First off, you’ll find a new feature in the battery settings called Sleep Standby Optimizations. Once turned on, your 5/5T will learn your sleeping patterns and turn off network usage when it detects you’re catching some zzz’s. Right before your wake up, your network access will be re-enabled so you don’t miss out on emails, Twitter mentions, or other notifications you got while asleep. OnePlus says this helps to reduce battery usage throughout the night and can be enabled by going to Settings -> Battery -> Battery optimization -> Advanced optimization -> Sleep standby optimization.

Along with this, you’ll also find improved photo clarity with the camera, support for group text messaging, the July 2018 Android security patch, and general bug fixes with the Gallery app.

July 20, 2018 — OnePlus 3/3T get July 2018 security patch with OxygenOS 5.0.4

Have a OnePlus 3 or 3T? You should be getting an OTA update soon that updates it to OxygenOS 5.0.4.

This is a pretty minor update, with the highlight being the July 2018 security patch. On the camera side of things, OnePlus has added a fix for an issue when adjusting manual ISO in third-party camera apps and improved the image quality for the front-facing camera.

You’ll also find bug fixes for a parallel WhatsApp crash issue and problems users have had when zooming in with the front camera in Snapchat.

This update is rolling out to all OnePlus 3/3T owners now, and if you have the phone but it’s enrolled in the Open Beta, OnePlus says it’ll update the download link once the global rollout is finished so you can switch back to a stable build now that the beta program has ended for the two older phones.

July 17, 2018 — OxygenOS 5.1.9 brings better dynamic range to OnePlus 6 camera, Google Lens integration

OnePlus is starting to roll out OxygenOS 5.1.9 build, with the update focusing on the OnePlus 6’s camera. The update will bring improvements to the autofocus and edge detection in portrait mode, as well as further enhancements to image clarity and dynamic range.

Additionally, the update will also bring Google Lens integration to the OnePlus camera app, allowing users to scan QR codes and get information about real-world objects. OnePlus says Google Lens will be making its way to the OnePlus 5 and 5T in addition to the OnePlus 6.

The update should be rolling out to select regions starting later today, and will be available more widely from July 20.

June 18, 2018 — OxygenOS 5.1.7 and 5.1.8 bring bootloader fixes

OnePlus is rolling out the OxygenOS 5.1.7 build, which includes the usual bug fixes and stability improvements along with a fix for the bootloader vulnerability that was discovered a few days ago. The build also includes fixes for scheduled DND settings.

The OxygenOS 5.1.7 build won’t be making its way to Indian users, and OnePlus is instead rolling out the 5.1.8 build, which offers the same fixes as the global build. The 5.1.8 build also includes system and network stability fixes, and features optimizations to the call quality.

June 8, 2018 — OnePlus 6 gets Portrait Mode for the front-facing camera and scheduled Do Not Disturb

OxygenOS 5.1.6 is now rolling out to the OnePlus 6 around the globe and comes with a bevy of new features to play around with.

There are two big updates to the camera situation, including a Portrait Mode for the front-facing camera and a Light Bokeh effect that can now be used with the rear camera.

Also included with this update is the ability to schedule Do Not Disturb to turn on at set times and dates. Additionally, you can create your own custom rules for DND to make it work just the way you want.

Other improvements with 5.1.6 include:

• Battery percentage can be seen in the status bar
• Improvements for sound quality and volume with ringtones
• A dual 4G option now available in SIM & network settings
• Stability improvements for dual SIM cards
• Idea VoLTE now working in India
• Optimized call clarity
• Added smart answer for Bluetooth – automatically answer incoming calls when connecting to Bluetooth devices
• Optimized power consumption and Improved system stability

June 1, 2018 — May security patch comes to OnePlus 5 and 5T

OnePlus pushed out a small update to the OnePlus 5 and 5T on June 1 (OxygenOS 5.1.2), with one of the most notable changes being an upgrade to the May 2018 Android security patch.

OxygenOS 5.1.2 adds a few smaller fixes/features as well, including:

• Fixed auto-rotation stability issue
• Fixed Wi-Fi connection issue
• Fixed microphone not functioning issue for AKG earphones
• Added double-tap to lock screen
• Gallery app updated with Places (map view of where your photos were taken) and a Recently Deleted folder.

May 25, 2018 — Face Unlock comes to the OnePlus 3/3T with OxygenOS 5.0.3

The OnePlus 3 and 3T may be getting up in their age, but that doesn’t stop OnePlus from pushing new features to them. OxyenOS 5.0.3 is rolling out to the phones now, and the highlight here is easily the addition of Face Unlock.

This is the same technology introduced on the OnePlus 5T, allowing you to quickly unlock your 3 or 3T by just looking at it. Other items included with the update are as follows:

• Android security patch updated to May 2018
• Refined UI for the Shelf
• New app shortcuts design
• More options when long-pressing an app icon
• OnePlus Gallery gets Places menu, ability to share photos to Shot-On-OnePlus, and Recently Deleted collection
• Large Files category in File Manager
• OnePlus Weather app gets new widget, improved positioning accuracy, and refresh interval setting

May 24, 2018 — OxygenOS 5.1.5 adds May security patch and super slow motion video to OnePlus 6

OnePlus just opened sales for the OnePlus 6 a few days ago, but even so, the company already has a new software update that’s rolling out to it.

This isn’t a particularly big update, but two notable additions include the May 2018 Android security patch and a super slow motion mode for the camera that records video in 720p at 480 FPS and 1080p at 240 FPS.

Other goodies include:

• Preloaded OnePlus Switch app
• Toggle for showing/hiding the display notch
• Quick capture when the camera’s in portrait mode
• More actions for recently deleted files

OnePlus 6

• OnePlus 6 review
• OnePlus 6 vs. OnePlus 5T: How much changes in six months?
• OnePlus 6 vs. OnePlus 5: Should you upgrade?
• These are the official OnePlus 6 cases
• The OnePlus 6 doesn’t work on Verizon or Sprint
• Join the discussion in the forums

PlayStation 4: The Ultimate Guide

The extended user manual for all things PlayStation 4

Some of us have been PlayStation fans from day one, but this most recent generation of Sony’s infamous game console has really turned heads. The PlayStation 4 is not only a capable competitor in the market, the list of incredible games available for it is unrivaled. But there’s a whole lot more you can do with this console if you know where to look, and like all gadgets sometimes things go wrong and you need to troubleshoot a problem. So whether you’ve just bought your first PlayStation 4, or you just need a little help getting started, we’re here for you. In this article, we are going to document all of the resources you will need to ensure that your PlayStation experience is the best it possibly can be.

• What to do once you’ve finally set up your PlayStation 4

If you haven’t bought a PlayStation yet, we’ve also got the tools to help you out. Choosing your PlayStation might be difficult and if you ever plan on using a PlayStation VR you definitely want a PlayStation Pro. Aside from performance, you want to save money, and we want to help you do it. Buying products in bundles, especially if you already need the whole kit, can save you boatloads of money.

• Do you want a PlayStation 4 Classic, PlayStation 4 Pro or Slim PlayStation 4?
• The difference between a PS4 and a PS4 Slim
• Which PlayStation 4 is best for virtual reality (VR)?
• Save money buying these PlayStation Bundles!
• Every limited edition PlayStation 4 that you can buy today

All about your current console update: 5.50

PlayStation launched the 5.50 update for their consoles with a whole lot of cool new content. If you have recently bought a PS4 for your child, you’re going to love the new Play Time Management feature that will now allow you to control how long your child’s account will be allowed to play their games. It isn’t even just subject to “4 hours a day” as the controls are so extensive you can change the settings to something like, “My child is allowed to play between 4pm-7pm on Wednesday for 4 hours, and 2pm-8pm on Saturday for 3 hours!” Not just that, but these settings can be controlled from the parental account on your PlayStation, Sony’s website or even the PlayStation App on your phone!

Your library will be getting a few more tabs in the update as well, making it easier to sort out and find new content. If you’re a PlayStation VR user, now you don’t have to guess which titles are VR supported by their names or descriptions. After this update all VR supported devices will have a VR icon next to them in the PlayStation Store, allowing you to organize your searches that much better.

The Quick Menu is also getting some nifty updates including a drop-down friends list for you to see who’s online and send them messages or invitations directly from a shortcut option! On top of this PlayStation Music and Spotify users will get a shortcut option with the Square button for volume control. USB Music Players will be using the Triangle button for play/pause, and the Square button for volume control! On the topic of Quick Menu’s, there will be a new option to permanently delete your notifications! No more clutter!

Now, onto the Tournament page updates! In addition to now being able to import your pictures from USB to use as your Team Logo, tournament page background you can also use them for your PlayStation Home background! Also, you can now schedule events directly from the tournament page, and more easily filter between Team vs. Team and 1v1 events.

Finally, in regards to the performance, PlayStation Pro has received an update called Supersampling Mode which will allow the PS4 Pro to run a new resolution scale that goes up to 2160p!

Get to know the best hardware

Just like buying a new car there is always the option to get your possessions in a “fully loaded” style. Well, from the controllers to the headsets we’ve got all the information you’ll need to deck out your gear for the PlayStation. These accessories and upgrades aren’t just to improve the visual of your command center, but you can also improve the performance.

Last but not least, let’s take a moment to appreciate all the save files to our favorite games. The ones that, even if you don’t play for a few years, you never want to lose. PlayStation used to have an interchangeable memory card, but now it’s all on their internal hard drive. So if you’re running out of memory but don’t want to lose anything, you can also check out this list for the best external hard drives.

• Where to buy the new PlayStation Gold Wireless headset
• Best PS4 decal kits
• Best portable monitors for your PS4
• The best PS4 controllers to own
• The best headset available for the PS4
• The best accessories available for your PS4
• The best travel accessories for your PS4
• The best charging stands for your accessories
• The best vertical docs for your PS4
• The best external hard drives for your PS4
• The best phone mounts for the PS4

The best fun to have on your PlayStation 4

While there are plenty of super cool apps to lose yourself in, one of the main reasons for owning a PS4 is for the games. As you know, exploring the PlayStation Store from your console, or even online, can take hours — and the only thing you’re going to do is wish your wallet was fatter. Well, you can save your time knowing that we’ve done most of the research for you! So instead of window shopping, check out these links here to get an idea of what people are already playing, and what you should be playing too!

Don’t forget to stay updated with our here on Android Central! Most of these articles are updated on a monthly basis, so if you keep checking in we’re bound to have new content for you!

• Your favorite titles from PlayStation 2 that are available on PlayStation 4
• The best games for PlayStation 4 as of December 2017
• The best strategy games
• The best Indie games
• The best PS4 exclusives
• The best multiplayer games
• The best games for under $30
• The best free games
• Super cool demos you need to try out
• Every game that will release to PS4 this month

Recommendations and weighing your options when owning a PlayStation console

So you’ve got everything settled, you know how your system works and everything is set up just the way you like it. Now you’re wondering if there’s anything more you can do to make your PlayStation scream “YOU” just a little bit more. Maybe you just want to look into a few upgrades. Regardless of your reason, check out these links to see what choices you have, and how to get them done!

• Best replacement thumb grips for PlayStation 4 controllers
• Best Replacement SSD for PlayStation 4 in 2018
• Best PlayStation 4 Controllers
• What is PlayStation Plus and why do I need it?
• Should you wall mount your PlayStation 4?
• Customizing the lights on your PlayStation Conrollers
• What you can get with a PlayStation Plus account

Frequently asked questions and how-tos

From troubleshooting to figuring out all the new commands for your console, we’ve got plenty of resources to help you out. Whether you’re a new PlayStation owner or just trying to figure something out you’ve never tried before, check out these links to see if any of these can help you out!

When buying a new PlayStation after already owning one

• How to transfer data from your old PlayStation 4 to your new PlayStation4
• How to set up parental controls

Navigating your PlayStation Store

• Should you buy physical games or digital games?
• How to make a PlayStation Store Wishlist
• How to use PlayStation gift cards
• How to download from the Japanese PlayStation Store

Helpful how-to

• How to turn off auto updates for games on PlayStation 4
• How to delete games from your PS4
• How to organize your games
• How to delete your games
• How to change the theme of your PlayStation 4 home screen
• How to set up two-factor authentication
• How to eject a disk from your PS4
• How to use the share function on your PS4
• How to share your images off of PlayStation Network
• How to turn off auto-update for your games
• How to configure your audio controls
• How to wake up a PlayStation 4 with your phone

Troubleshooting

• What to do if your credit card won’t work on PlayStation Network
• What to do when your PlayStation 4 won’t accept a disc
• What to do when your PlayStation 4 headset breaks
• The 5 most common controller issues
• How to fix ps4 controller jitters
• What to do when your PS4 Pro is running loud
• How to fix your PlayStation 4 from starting in Safe Mode
• How to deal with Blu-Ray problems
• How to get your PlayStation Move controllers to work with your Christmas tree (or any other crazy lights)
• How to fix your overheating issues
• How to use an external hard drive with your PS4
• How to enable HDR for PlayStation 4 on popular 4K TVs

Gaming: Tips, Tricks and Everything you need to know!

Everything you need to know

Here’s a collection of articles of some of the popular games that are out there. Inside includes everything you need to know from release dates, developer information, major patch updates – you name it!

• Fortnite tips, tricks, and cheats to help you win a Victory Royale
• Psychonauts 2: Everything you need to know
• Spyro Reignited Trilogy: Everything you need to know
• Beyond Good and Evil 2: Everything you need to know
• Resident Evil 2 Remake: Everything you need to know
• God of War: Everything you need to know!
• Detroit: Become Human – Everything you need to know!

Looking for some new games?

We all get bored sometimes. Don’t worry! We’re here to help you pick out your next adventure!

• Best PlayStation 4 games under $30
• Best Indie games for PlayStation 4
• Every PlayStation 2 game you can play on your PlayStation 4

Beat your favorite game and looking for more?

We all hate it when our favorite game comes to an end. But thankfully we have a few suggestions based on your interests of games you should check out next!

• What to play when you get bored with Fortnite on PlayStation 4
• What to play after you beat Far Cry 5
• What to play after you beat God of War

Thoughts?

Do you have any questions regarding your PlayStation 4? What helpful hints would you like to see more of? Let us know in the comment section below!

Updated August 2018: We’ve added more articles — from all the best Fortnite advice to some of the best games you can find, we’ve got your back!

PlayStation 4

• PS4 vs. PS4 Slim vs. PS4 Pro: Which should you buy?
• PlayStation VR Review
• Playing PS4 games through your phone is awesome

Amazon

Google Assistant should actually take some notes from Bixby

Google Assistant may be bigger and better than Samsung Bixby, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing Google could learn from it.

Bixby isn’t all bad. There, I said it.

Samsung’s take on the AI assistant has been widely panned since it debuted back on the Samsung Galaxy S8, and few things have been more hated on the last few Samsung flagships than Samsung Bixby and it’s dedicated and mostly useless Bixby button — which you can’t disable on the Galaxy Note 9. Sure, Bixby’s rollout was slow, its functions aren’t as consistent or as all-encompassing as Google Assistant, and since Bixby is limited to Samsung devices, it can’t be used in nearly as many places. But that doesn’t mean Bixby is worthless.

There are a few valuable lessons and features that bigger, better AIs like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa could stand to learn from the little button that can’t.

Give Assistant a makeover

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: dark themes should be the norm, not the exception on Android, and while manufacturers have been giving us dark themes more readily than Google the last 5 years, no one has done quite so many and quite so easily as Samsung. Galaxy Themes allow users to dye many Samsung apps black, and while those these don’t quite extend to Bixby, that’s okay. Bixby lets you choose from one of five background color themes that are used for Bixby’s voice popups and full-page dialogs.

The options available to users are somewhat repetitive — two are teal-based and two are purple-based — but the ability to give Bixby a darker look means it won’t blind you when it randomly wakes up in the middle of the night the way Assistant’s blinding white will. Changing the color of the Bixby prompt is a bit like changing the wallpaper on your phone: it’s not hard to do, and it makes the phone feel more personal.

Speaking of personalization, Bixby gives each of its three voices a distinct, human name, which in turn helps the choices feel more human and more casual for users who are supposed to carry on conversations and build trust with Bixby. Google Assistant’s voices have upgraded from Voices 1-8, but instead of human names, we have color names with no voice personality descriptions. Is Red more aggressive? Is Amber bright and cheerful like her color? The voice of a personal assistant needs to be personable; it needs personality and empathy for people to trust it more.

Upping your game

The problem with Bixby’s themes was that at Bixby’s debut, most of the good and dark themes were locked until you hit a certain level with your Bixby Points. Up until a few weeks ago, you got points for using Bixby, points that could be used to climb the leaderboards or redeemed for gift cards. More points were given when you used new commands or features, and if Bixby got something wrong, you could get extra points correcting what it misheard and/or telling it what you actually wanted it to do.

This isn’t an unheard of tactic: Tasker’s AutoApps plugins have used Google Play Games in the past to gamify their not-insignificant learning curves. Tying Google Assistant into Google Play Games and displaying achievements and leaderboards could encourage users to explore all the cool things Google Assistant can do. Sharing these achievements socially could also increase the visibility of what Assistant can do organically.

Even more than leaderboards, though, Google giving users Google Play credit for correcting a wrong answer or clarifying a misheard commands could also help Google’s AI learn even faster. These kinds of surveys already pop up in Google Opinion Rewards from time to time, but allowing it all to be handled within the Google Assistant app could increase the user pool Google gets feedback from — after all, Google Opinion Rewards is free money but not widely known. It would also encourage users to test Assistant’s limits more often in hopes of unlocking more credit for a new app or TV episode.

Touch me, touch me

When Bixby first arrived, there was something it could do that Google Assistant could not — interact with your screen as if you were tapping it. If you asked Bixby to “Open YouTube and Show me all the channels I’ve subscribed to,” it would open the YouTube app to the Subscriptions tab, and then tap the ALL option in the channel carousel. This kind of multi-step action would have been invaluable, if only it had consistently worked with most apps. As it was, Bixby’s complex actions like these didn’t always work with the apps that were supported, and not a lot of apps were supported to begin with.

Instead of trying to dial in precise tap commands for specific commands on its own — tap commands that could change when the app updates its layout — smart assistants like Google Assistant could instead try to emulate taps another way: Battleship. By using a pre-determined grid system for coordinates, it would be possible for Bixby or Google Assistant to navigate the screen however we want without needing us to touch the phone.

“OK Google, tap screen point B7.”

Allowing users to navigate their screen using their voice and standard coordinates would allow Assistant to interact with any app, letting users do just most smartphone tasks hands-free. Going beyond the coolness and convenience this could have for the everyday user, grid-based voice commands could be a huge boost to Accessibility navigation for those with mobility and dexterity problems.

What would you steal from Bixby?

Bixby may have ruined its reputation forever, but there’s a silver lining in everything. What other silver linings and bright spots would you pull from Bixby before sending it up to that great big uninstall bin in the sky?

Bixby’s reputation is tarnished beyond repair

The best exclusive games on PlayStation

• Best Horror
• Best Adventure
• Best Action RPG
• Best Story
• Best Action
• Best JRPG

Best Horror

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

See at Amazon

There is a reason that Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice received so many nominations at the 2017 Game Awards. Ninja Theory put out a game that is nothing short of stunning. With stellar voice acting a motion captured performances it takes elements of Norse mythology and weaves a fantastic narrative exploring the nature of psychosis.

The game blends hack and slash combat elements, horror, and puzzles in a way that provides excellent gameplay all on its own. When you add the surprisingly moving performances from first-time actor Melina Juergens, the powerful score, and tight writing you end up with a game that edges dangerously close to the realm of art.

Bottom line. Do yourself a favor and give this game a spin. I think it does a fantastic job of pushing the envelope of what a video game can be. It is to gaming what art films are to blockbuster cinema.

One more thing Play it with headphones. The clever use of binaural audio design gives you a small taste of psychosis and only serves to deepen the experience.

Best adventure game

Yakuza 0

See at PlayStation Store

The Yakuza series has been quietly plugging away at the construction of a vast gaming world since 2005. With a release nearly every year since its inception one might think that the series has done everything possible within its framework. However, Yakuza 0 released in Japan in 2015 and slipped onto western shores in 2017 and there is plenty of new stuff to keep you busy.

Yakuza 0 acts as a prequel to the Yakuza series. Set in the late 80’s you will follow Goro Majima and Kazuma Kirya as they find themselves wrapped up in a battle between various nefarious underworld entities for control of a small piece of property. This seemingly small issue is just a jumping off point for a winding and interesting plot which boasts all the earmarks of a great Yakuza film.

There is absolutely no dearth of things to keep you busy in the world of Yakuza 0. Aside from the quests directly related to the main storyline, there are plenty of fun and goofy side quests and a boatload of genuinely fun mini-games which have the potential to keep a player busy for hours.

Bottom line. Yakuza 0 has a ton to offer and makes for a fantastic addition to any PS4 library. If you are a fan of the series it is not to be missed.

One more thing. If you have ever wanted to run a cabaret club or own an ever-expanding real estate empire then Yakuza 0 is definitely the place to be.

Best Action RPG

Bloodborne

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Thus far, From Software has done one thing and done it quite well. They have managed to relentlessly brutalize gamers and leave them begging for more. Bloodborne is not a sequel to the “Souls” series but more of a spiritual successor… Or blood successor if you will. Infused with a Lovecraftian-cum-Bram Stoker vibe Bloodborne feels similar to the “Souls” series but switches things up in a number of ways.

You will hack and slash your ways through the streets of Yharnam, a gothic analog for a 19th-century European city, which has been infested by a plague. As you battle your way deep into the city you will have to make strategic use of your wits and your arsenal. You will also die. A lot.

Bottom line. If you love a game that doesn’t hold your hand and rewards you for patience, persistence, and precision then you are going to have a great time in the world of Bloodborne.

One more thing. Bring a snack, those load times are brutal.

Best Story

Horizon Zero Dawn

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If you want a beautiful looking game with a great story, you should look no further than Horizon Zero Dawn. It is chock full of gorgeous visuals and the combat mechanics are intuitive while also managing to be incredibly satisfying. Guerilla Games managed to make a game that had me want to find every unexplored corner of its lush world.

Aside from being fun to play and really good looking they also managed to tell a rip-roaring story. The way the story plays out had me wanting to know more throughout my entire playthrough. As you progress through the game, the story builds and the world deepens. The universe of Horizon Zero dawn seems to be ripe for sequels but it also can stand up all on its own as an example of stellar storytelling and world building.

Bottom line. Horizon Zero Dawn has a lot going for it. It totally justifiably made a ton of 2017’s best-of list. It’s exclusives like this that can draw gamers to specific consoles.

One more thing. The main character is one of the best examples I have experienced in recent years of a well rounded, powerful female lead. I hope to see lots more characters like Aloy in the future.

Best Action

God of War 4

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The wait for the newest entry in the God of War franchise is finally over and it’s a real stunner. Eight games into the series and one might think that it’s gone a bit long in the tooth. However, developer, Santa Monica Games has managed to breathe a whole new life into the series.

Aside from some mechanics and camera changes, one of the biggest adjustments in God of War 4 is in the character of Kratos himself. Santa Monica Games actually managed to humanize a god and that is a herculean feat in and of itself. The humanity of Kratos is expressed in the very real feeling relationship with his son. Kratos intends to lead a normal life with his son. However, just like another famous father once said, “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.”

Bottom line. It is still relatively early in 2018 and there are a lot of games on the schedule for the rest of the year, but you can be certain that God of War 4 will be making a few best of 2018 lists.

One more thing. I spoke a lot about characters in God of War 4. If you’re concerned that I didn’t mention combat and buckets of blood, rest easy. You will be hacking and slashing your way to glory and by the time you’re done, you will be absolutely coated in the viscera of anyone who stood in your way.

Best JRPG

Persona 5

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If you are a fan of JRPG games and you have never given yourself the gift that is Person 5, maybe it’s about time you did. Widely regarded as one of the most stellar JRPGs to ever come down the pike and garnering multitudes of awards and nominations, it is definitely worth your time.

It’s hard to go into exactly what makes this title so awesome in such a small amount of space. However, every element of Person 5 is damn near perfect. The characters and plot are tightly written, the art style is beautiful and engaging, and the music is fantastic in its own right. For my money, it is easily my favorite in the series and certainly stands in contention for one of my favorite JRPGs ever.

Bottom line. Persona 5 is an amazing game with fantastic depth and it is totally worth your $50

One more thing. If you haven’t played the previous games you won’t be lost so you don’t have to worry about that. However, they are all awesome games and are worth picking up in their own right

Conclusion

There are plenty of exclusive games on PlayStation, and these are just some of the best. As we move forward there are more excellent exclusives coming to the fore. As you begin to explore these games and the many others that can only be played on PlayStation there will be laughs, tears, and furious curses waiting for you. Is there a PlayStation exclusive that should have made our list? Are any of your favorites here? Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know about it!

Update, August 2018: Updated to include Best JRPG!

Pixel 3 XL wireless charging confirmed, camera samples shared on Instagram

Everything we know about what’ll likely be one of the year’s best phones.

Google first introduced its Pixel series in 2016, and since then, has been hard at work to establish itself as a serious player in the smartphone market. Google may be one of the most powerful and iconic companies in the world, but when it comes to hardware, is still very much a newcomer.

We saw vast improvements with the Pixel 2 compared to the original Pixel line, and we’re expecting to get that again with the Pixel 3. Google’s quickly learning what it takes to compete with the likes of Samsung and Apple, and seeing as how the Pixel 2 was one of 2017’s best phones, there’s a lot riding on this year’s entry.

Ladies and gentlemen, here’s everything we know so far about the Google Pixel 3.

The latest Pixel 3 news

August 22, 2018 — Leaked video confirms wireless charging on Pixel 3 XL; Camera samples shared on Instagram

Thanks to various hands-on photos, we’ve known for a while that the Pixel 3 and 3 XL will come with all-glass backs. However, up until now, it’s been a mystery as to whether or not wireless charging will make its way to the phones.

At least for the larger Pixel 3 XL, a video that was shared by user @khoroshev on Twitter confirms that this feature is, in fact, present.

pic.twitter.com/XtAtAeWreH

— Максим Хорошев (@khoroshev) August 22, 2018

The video above shows the Pixel 3 XL being placed onto a wireless charging pad, and when it makes a contact, a small animation appears on the screen to show the current battery percentage and to indicate that charging has begun. Google’s obviously yet to confirm the legitimacy of this video, but it sure does seem like wireless charging is a go for the Pixel 3 lineup.

Along with the video, that same person also took to Instagram to share a heap of photos that he supposedly captured with the Pixel 3 XL. Just like the Pixel 2 before it, the pictures showcase great dynamic range, excellent colors, and more. We don’t have access to the full-resolution files seeing as how these were uploaded to Instagram, but even so, it’s a great early look at what’s to come.

You can check out all of the photos here and here.

August 17, 2018 — Pixel 3 XL and its unforgiving notch pop up in Toronto

Surprise, surprise — another Pixel 3 XL leak!

A reader of the Canadian tech site MobileSyrup recently snapped the above photo while riding a streetcar in Toronto. As you can see, the phone shown in the picture appears to be none other than the Google Pixel 3 XL.

While Google’s yet to formally unveil the phone, the device lines up with everything else we’ve seen so far. It’s running Android P, has a chin below the display, and its large notch is impossible to miss.

This photo doesn’t reveal anything we didn’t already know about the phone, but the fact that Google’s got people using these out in the wild confirms that we’re not too far off from an official launch.

August 10, 2018 — Another hands-on video shows the Pixel 3 XL in use while also confirming some specs

The same person that shared those Pixel 3 XL photos and unboxing video from a couple days ago has returned with yet another video that reveals even more about the phone.

In this video, we can see the Pixel 3 XL actually being used. It’s running Android 9 Pie (no surprise there) and appears to have the same UI of the Pixel and Pixel 2 running the new software.

A couple benchmarks results are also shown during the video, and as such, a handful of specs have been confirmed. They include:

• 1440 x 2960 screen resolution
• Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor w/ Adreno 630 GPU
• 3,430 mAh battery
• 12.2MP rear camera
• 8.1MP front-facing camera (x3)

The most interesting of those specs are the front-facing cameras. Antutu lists three 8.1MP sensors up front, although in the video we can only see two. This could be nothing more than a glitch in the app, or Google could have implemented some sort of mystery camera up there. We really aren’t sure about that one.

August 8, 2018 — Pixel 3 XL appears in more hands-on photos and unboxing video

Previous renders and real-world pictures have already given us a clear look at the Pixel 3 XL’s design, and to help make that image as clear as humanly possible, SlashLeaks recently shared three additional hands-on photos and an unboxing video of the phone.

One of the photos shows the back of the white Pixel 3 XL while the other two showcase the front. We once again see that Google will be sticking with just one rear camera and a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, and unfortunately, that notch hasn’t shrunk at all since the last time we saw it.

Moving over to the unboxing video, it’s apparent that Google’s using very similar packaging compared to the Pixel 2 and 2 XL. The box does contain a pair of wired USB-C earbuds in addition to the Pixel 3 XL, but seeing as how Google experimented with this idea for last year’s release, we aren’t entirely sure if the free buds will stick around for the final retail packaging.

August 6, 2018 — October 4 launch date leaked for the Pixel 3

While we’ve seen plenty of leaked renders and specs for the Pixel 3, talk about its release date has been fairly quiet. That is, up until now. As spotted by Brandon Lee from the YouTube channel This is Tech Today, the Pixel 3 is shown to be released on October 4 according to the website Famebit.

Famebit is a website that allows companies to connect with content creators and work out deals to create sponsored content for YouTube videos, Instagram posts, etc. An ad on the site was recently created by Google and asks for Canadian creators to switch to the Pixel 3 and then making a video talking about their experience.

In this listing, it’s stated that “The Pixel 3 phone is launching October 4, 2018.”

While there’s no way to confirm if this ad really was created by Google, that October 4 date is what we were previously expecting anyways. That’s the same day Google used to announce the Pixel and Pixel 2 before, so it makes sense that it’d keep the trend going this year.

July 30, 2018 — Clearly White Google Pixel 3 XL shows up in new leak

We just got our best look at the Google Pixel 3 XL courtesy of XDA. The images in question show off the Clearly White color option, and the live photos confirm a cutout at the front and a single rear camera. We can also make out a single speaker located below the display.

The XDA leak once again reaffirms the presence of a glass back on the Pixel 3 XL, with the finish alternating between glossy and matte. A glass back opens up the possibility for wireless charging, but for now there’s no further information as to whether the feature will make its way to the device.

July 28, 2018 — ‘Pixel Stand’ could be a wireless charger for the upcoming Pixels

A teardown of the Google app by the folks at XDA has served up interesting information. The code references something called a Pixel Stand, leading to suggestions that it will be a wireless charging dock for the upcoming Pixels.

According to XDA, the Pixel Stand will feature Assistant integration, and will be able to offer personalized suggestions and answer queries when the phone is docked.

June 27, 2018 — Pixel 3 and 3 XL renders show the phones from every possible angle

As if previous leaks of the Pixel 3 and 3 XL haven’t been revealing enough, MySmartPrice teamed up with OnLeaks to share a boatload of both photo and video renders of the two phones.

These renders confirm a lot of what we’ve previously seen, including things like an all-glass back for both phones, single rear cameras, and a notch on the larger Pixel 3 XL.

However, while earlier rumors suggested that only the 3 XL would have two front-facing cameras, these renders show that the regular Pixel 3 will have them, too.

The Pixel 3’s display is said to measure in at 5.4-inches with an 18:9 aspect ratio, whereas the Pixel 3 XL will have a 6.2-inch screen and 19:9 setup. As for the dimensions, we’re looking at 145.6 x 68.2 x 7.9mm for the Pixel 3 and 158 x 76.6 x 7.9mm for the 3 XL.

June 18, 2018 — Case render confirms Pixel 3 XL design

Ice Universe on Twitter has built up a reputation for being pretty accurate about leaks/rumors in the mobile space, and on June 18, they shared a case render that further confirms the Pixel 3 XL’s design.

Like we saw with the hands-on photos on June 7 and 8, the Pixel 3 XL will have a notch in its screen, dual front-facing cameras, stereo speakers, rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a single rear camera.

It’s peculiar that Google’s choosing to use two cameras on the front while keeping just one on the back, but based on how excellent the Pixel 2’s single rear camera is, I don’t expect this will be a downside at all.

June 8, 2018 — Pixel 3 XL shown off in six more hands-on pictures

Less than a day after those first two hands-on photos of the Pixel 3 XL surfaced, six more have appeared.

These additional photos showcase the Pixel 3 XL from every possible angle, and when XDA Developers reached out to their forum member that shared them, they were able to confirm that the phone has a full glass back. In other words, it’s possible this year’s Pixel line may finally adopt wireless charging.

The front and back photos are pretty similar compared to what we saw yesterday, but the other images showcase a reflective glass frame around the phone, volume rocker and power/lock button on the right side, and a USB-C port and SIM slot on the bottom.

Also, as 9to5Google pointed out, that mysterious logo on the back of the Pixel 3 XL was used previously with old Pixel 2 prototypes.

June 7, 2018 — Hands-on photos apparently showcase a Pixel 3 XL prototype

Out of the blue, XDA Senior Member meraz9000 shared two photos on the XDA Forums showing what’s supposed to be a prototype of the Pixel 3 XL. There’s obviously no way we can confirm whether or not this is the real deal, but it sure does line up with the display panels that were leaked last month.

The photos show the Pixel 3 XL from both the front and back, with the front reiterating the point that the 3 XL will more than likely have a notch in its screen. For what it’s worth, it does look like we’ll be getting two front-facing cameras and a chin at the bottom to retain stereo front-facing speakers.

Around back, this Pixel 3 XL prototype looks nearly identical to that of the Pixel 2 XL. The glass panel seems to be ever-so-slightly smaller, but that could just be the way the photo was taken.

In any case, what do you think about how the Pixel 3 XL is shaping up?

June 4, 2018 — Google’s apparently working on a mid-range Pixel phone

According to one tipster, Google’s in the process of developing a mid-range Pixel phone that’s codenamed “Bonito” and is powered by the Snapdragon 710 processor.

Rumors of a mid-range Pixel first popped up in April, but the old claim of it launching this July has since been replaced with a release scheduled for the first half of 2019.

That would suggest that Google may launch this new Pixel phone during I/O next year, but with so much discrepancy surrounding the release date, it’s entirely possible it’ll be announced alongside the Pixel 3 in October.

May 30, 2018 (part 2) — Verizon is said to be the exclusive carrier for the Pixel 3, again 😕

A report from Bloomberg recently surfaced confirming a few details about Google’s upcoming phones per a source that’s familiar with their production. According to the report:

• The Pixel 3 series will once again be exclusive to Verizon Wireless in the U.S.
• A notch will be present on the larger Pixel 3 XL
• Google will announce/launch the phones in October
• Foxconn will manufacture the Pixel 3/3 XL
• Stereo speakers will be present on both phones
• The Pixel 3 XL will have dual front-facing cameras
• “Both models will include upgraded, single-lens cameras on the back”

May 30, 2018 — LG will reportedly manufacture the Pixel 3 XL’s OLED display

Just a couple days after the Pixel 3 XL’s notched panel leaked, a report’s come out of Korea claiming that Google will once again use LG to manufacture and supply an OLED screen for the phone.

Furthermore, an official from LG Display that remains anonymous said, “We have maintained close ties with Google and the volume will not be much different from the previous one (the Pixel 2 XL).”

If this turns out to be true, one can only hope that LG’s improved the quality of its mobile panels since last year. The LG-made Pixel 2 XL display was the center of a lot of controversy for the phone’s first few weeks out in the wild, and Google really can’t afford to go through that again with gen-three.

What do you think about LG making the Pixel 3 XL’s display?

May 28, 2018 — The Pixel 3 goes 2:1 and the Pixel 3 XL gets a notch

Here’s an interesting leak that, while not necessarily all-telling, gives us an indication of where Google is taking the series in 2018. Specifically, the larger Pixel 3 XL looks to have a notch while the smaller Pixel 3, though moving to a 2:1 aspect ratio, will lack one. At the same time, we see some sensors that may indicate Google is adding either a second front camera to the phones or, more likely, some sort of dedicated biometric sensor for faster/more reliable face unlock.

The leak comes from Weibo (by way of Slashleaks) and reportedly shows two front glass panels for the new phones. Given that we’re almost in June, this would be the time for accessory makers to begin testing products for the final phone design. It’s also good to see Google maintaining dual front-facing speakers for the lineup.

What do you think of this latest leak?

May 10, 2018 — The Pixel 3 could be joined by second-gen Pixel Buds and a Pixel Watch

Google’s hardware events surround the Pixel phones with a heap of other product announcements, and this year, it’s reported that we’ll see a second-gen version of Pixel Buds and Google’s first Pixel-branded smartwatch.

Specifics on these gadgets are still up in the air, and as excited as I am to see how Google improves its wireless earbud game, I’m beyond ecstatic to see how the company’s first smartwatch turns out.

Wear OS is in an awkward stage right now, but a proper Pixel Watch and new silicon from Qualcomm could bring it back into the limelight. Assuming Google handles this right, the Apple Watch may soon be faced with some of its stiffest competition yet.

When will the Pixel 3 be released?

In 2016 and 2017, Google held its hardware event on October 4. We don’t have a concrete date for this year’s event quite yet, but there’s no reason to believe Google will deter from this pattern.

Another October 4 event isn’t out of the question seeing as how that falls on a Thursday this year, but at the very least, we should be looking at some point in early October.

Pre-orders for the Pixel 3 will likely open shortly after it’s announced that same day with shipments going out at least a couple of weeks later.

How much will the Pixel 3 cost?

Over the past couple years, pricing for Google’s Pixel phones has remained mostly the same. The MSRP for the Pixel and Pixel 2 series is as follows:

• Pixel w/ 32GB — $649
• Pixel w/ 128GB — $749
• Pixel 2 w/ 64GB — $649
• Pixel 2 w/ 128GB — $749
• Pixel XL w/ 32GB — $769
• Pixel XL w/ 128GB — $869
• Pixel 2 XL w/ 64GB —$849
• Pixel 2 XL w/ 128GB — $949

I imagine we’ll see similar numbers with the Pixel 3, but don’t be too surprised if we get a Pixel 3 XL variant that crosses the $1000 threshold.

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

• Pixel 2 FAQ: Everything you need to know!
• Google Pixel 2 and 2 XL review: The new standard
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• Google Pixel 2 vs. Pixel 2 XL: What’s the difference?
• Join our Pixel 2 forums

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What’s new on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu in September 2018

Black Panther lands on Netflix on Sept. 4. (Image credit: Netflix)

Black Panther. King Lear. … And probably some other king things.

A new month is nearly upon us, and that means it’s time to take a look at what’s coming to some of your favorite streaming TV services. Three of them, in fact.

What’s new on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu? All kinds of things.

Black Panther hits Netflix on Sept. 4, so you can fight for the future of Wakanda all over again. And we’re absolutely looking forward to the trippy Netflix original Maniac as well. Amazon Prime Video has original series like Pete the Cat (it’s one groovy kids show) and family thriller Forever. And on Hulu, you’ll find some of your favorite series and movies, along with fresh live shows.

One way or another, there’s something for everyone in September.

What’s new on Netflix in September 2018What’s new on Amazon Prime Video in September 2018What’s new on Hulu in September 2018

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These are the best accessories for the Galaxy Note 9

The Note 9 is already an amazing phone, but it can be even better with a few extra accessories!

If you pre-ordered a Galaxy Note 9, you’re probably getting pretty excited by now — it should be arriving in just a couple of days, after all! You’re about to get right into one of the most powerful phones on the market, complete with its new Bluetooth-enabled S Pen and massive, beautiful display.

Believe it or not, though, even a $1000 superphone can be further improved with a few choice accessories.

• Whitestone Dome Glass
• Samsung Wireless Charger Duo
• Samsung Galaxy Watch
• AKG N60NC

Whitestone Dome Glass Screen Protector

Before you even think about taking your phone out of the box, you should have some kind of protection ready. There are a million cases to choose from, but for the screen, it’s hard to argue with Whitestone’s Dome Glass protector. It’s one of the few that wraps around the Note 9’s curved glass panel, and won’t affect S Pen functionality.

See at Amazon

If you’ve ever shopped for glass screen protectors for a Samsung device before, you know how difficult it is to find one that adheres properly to a curved display. Whitestone’s Dome Glass protector may be a bit pricey at $44.99 (or $59.99 for a two-pack), but it’s worth it for that alone — and let’s be honest, your $1000 phone deserves better than a cheap screen protector anyway.

Samsung Wireless Charger Duo

The Wireless Charger Duo is the latest in Samsung’s long line of fast wireless chargers, and as the name implies, it charges two devices at once. You can’t flatten the stand like with the Fast Charge Wireless Charging Convertible, but it’s a perfect desk setup for people with a second phone or a smartwatch.

See at Amazon

$120 is pretty steep for a wireless charger — especially when you can buy two of Samsung’s convertible chargers for less money — but the Wireless Charger Duo only occupies one spot on your desk, and it’s made specifically with the Galaxy Note 9 in mind. Not to mention, it looks pretty great on a desk.

Samsung Galaxy Watch

You need something to occupy the second spot on that wireless charger, right? The Galaxy Watch is perfect for managing notifications and tracking fitness, and its rotating bezel makes navigating through the Tizen interface a joy. It comes in two sizes, so you don’t have to settle for a watch that’s too big or too small.

See at Samsung

It may seem strange to call a $330 smartwatch an accessory, but … well, that’s exactly what it is. Depending on where you stand, the lack of WearOS is either the best or worst part of the Galaxy Watch, but either way, it’s hard to argue with its modern design and days-long battery life.

AKG N60NC Noise-Canceling Headphones

Some airline employees may still be wary of the Galaxy Note name, but rest assured — you can definitely fly with the Note 9. Of course, the best way to fly is with noise-canceling headphones, and the AKG N60NCs come bundled with the phone for pre-orders. It doesn’t get much better than that.

See at Best Buy

The N60NCs offer the audio quality you’d expect from a brand like AKG, along with active noise-canceling, long battery life, and a compact design that all amount to a great pair of headphones for travel. If you missed out on the pre-order bundle deal, you can still grab the N60NCs for a penny shy of $300.

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• Is the Note 8 still a good buy?
• Join our Galaxy Note 9 forums

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Switch between devices wirelessly with Logitech’s $20 Bluetooth Keyboard

This compact keyboard can get the job done in no time.

Logitech’s Bluetooth Keyboard K480 is capable of connecting with up to three devices simultaneously, and right now Amazon has it available for just $19.99 for today only. That’s not only a match of its lowest price ever there, but it’s also a discount of $8 off what it sells for on average. This deal is part of a larger sale on Logitech PC accessories going on today.

This compact keyboard works with Bluetooth devices universally and has the ability to connect and switch between up to three devices. With that feature, you can easily fly between using the keyboard with a tablet to using it with your phone and then back again. It can connect to devices up to 33 feet away and also features an integrated cradle which can hold a phone or tablet in front of you while you’re typing.

It’s compatible with Windows and Mac computers, along with Android and iOS devices. You could connect it to a Chromebook too. Logitech includes a one-year warranty with its purchase. At Amazon, over 2,200 customers reviewed this keyboard resulting in a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars.

See at Amazon