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Best wireless chargers for the Samsung Galaxy Note 8

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The Galaxy Note 8 might be a year old now but that doesn’t make it any lesser of a phone. In fact, for the money, it’s one heck of a bargain. We’ve long been a fan of the stylus-packing handset as it’s full of cool features, including wireless charging. If you have the phone, you simply owe it to yourself to cut the cords.

Here are some of the best Samsung Galaxy Note 8 wireless chargers for home, work, and even on-the-go.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Standard Platter” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

These are the flat types of chargers you’ll find on desks and night stands; they often come in circular and rectangular shapes. Many of these offer variable output speeds so they’ll play nice with your friend’s iPhone, too.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

A trusted name in the tech space for decades now, Belkin still delivers the goods. This charger pumps out up to 10-watts for your Sony and LG phones, and can optimize to 9W for Samsung. The LED indicator let you know how things are going while the rubber ring holds the handset in place. The cable is five feet long so you can plug into the out-of-the-way outlets. Purchase for $45 from Amazon or $60 from Belkin.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Samsung Fast Charge Wireless Charger Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

When it comes to smartphone popularity it’s Samsung’s pie and the rest of the players share pieces of it. If you want official accessories, this is the charger you go with for Samsung devices.

It’s about 1.4x times faster than conventional wireless tech, has a circular strip of rubber to prevent your handset from sliding around, and a bright LED to indicate charging. Offered in Black, Navy, and White to match your favorite phone. $25 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Yootech Wireless Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

When you don’t need anything fancy and don’t want to spend a ton of money, you look for something like this. Compatible with all Qi-enabled phones, it works at 5W, 7.5W, and 10W charging standards. You’ll need to use your charging adapter and cable if you go with the high speed stuff, but you already have the one that came in your phone’s box. Sleep easy knowing that the green light turns off after a few seconds so your room doesn’t glow all night. $15 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Dock Style” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Prop your phone up at a convenient angle so you can quickly glance at your notifications. Ideal for your kitchen corner or end table in the family room.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Anker PowerWave Fast Wireless Charger Stand” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

As fast as you’ll need, plus some. We like this one for its 6-ft microUSB cable and 18-month warranty. Whether you need 5W, 7.5W, or 10W of juice, this wallet-friendly option brings the power. The twin charging coils make it so you can place your phone in landscape and portrait orientation without fumbling around for connection. Works through phone cases of 5mm, too! $30 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”TYLT VU Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

The VU charger features three coils inside, so feel free to put your handset on the cradle in portrait or landscape mode know it will charge. The LED under the lip of the stand turns green to indicate that it’s charging.

The bright, plastic charger comes in is available in blue, yellow and red, or you can opt for black if you’re in the mood for something traditional. The soft-touch finish and distinctive design give this charger a look that’s really unique and that’s why we’ve added it to this list. $30 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Corus 10W Fast Wireless Charger Stand” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Simple, compact, and a tad bit stylish, this stand doesn’t take up much room on your desk. The dual coils mean it’s as convenient to set your phone upright as it is to flip it on its side for watching Netflix. You’ll have to use your own charging adapter if you want to use the Quick Charge 2.0 or Quick Charge 3.0 technology, but doing so means much less down time. $20 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”On-the-Go Charging” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

For true wireless convenience you want something that goes with you, right? Whether it’s a library, coffee shop, or in an airport terminal, these wireless chargers have built-in batteries that allow for power-ups everywhere.

[vc_custom_heading text=”RAVPower 10400mAh Fast Wireless Charging Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

With a generous 10,400mAh worth of power, this charger can double or triple the time you use your smartphone. And, because time is always of the essence, the power bank offers up to 10W fast charging. Out for dinner with friends or loved ones? Let them plug in through the USB port and get some of that recharge action, too. $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Fonesalesman QiStone+” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Yo dawg, we heard you like wireless charging so we put wireless charging in a wireless charger. Seriously, you can top this portable unit off by placing it on another wireless charger.

The 4,000mAh internal battery ensures your night doesn’t end early because you have to get home. What’s more, it’s portable enough to toss in a bag or backpack so feel free to stay out and keep the party going. While everyone else fights over the car adapter you can sit in the backseat with your own power source. $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”mophie Powerstation Wireless External Battery Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

From one of the first names in charging, this portable device delivers 6,040mAh of backup power. In other words, that’s 2-3 times that you don’t have to plug into the wall. Ideal for college students, frequent flying types, and people who simply hate dealing with cables. The four LED lights let you know how much you’ve got left in the tank while the two-year warranty tells you to sleep easy at night. $80 at mophie

[vc_custom_heading text=”Car Solutions” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Why waste an opportunity to turn that daily commute into a convenient and flexible way of recharging? These are devices that hold your phone in place and provide a wireless charge.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Vansky 2-in-1 Wireless Car Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Suction this one to your dashboard or snap in the attachment and place it on your air vent for true convenience. With up to 10W of charging you’ll be sure to get the most efficient charge possible, even on short little trips to the grocery store. The clamp arm automatically locks your phone into place; touch the metal or press the button to release the device when you’re at your destination. $40 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”iOttie Easy One Touch Car Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Stick it to your dashboard or invert the head and mount it to your windshield. It’s your car, do what you want. The telescopic arm extends from around 5-inches out to 8.3-inches and pivots on a 225 degree arc so there’s no reason you can’t have your phone exactly where you want and how you want it. The plug itself has a USB port so you can share your power source with another rider. That’s twice as nice! $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”BESTHING Wireless Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

The gravity design makes dropping your phone into place about as easy at it gets. Simply set it down and watch as the arms come in to hug the handset into place. Prefer the air vent over the dashboard placement? No problem! We’re also fans of the large coil that connects to our battery; the smart technology allows for 5W, 7.5W, and 10W speeds. $33 at Amazon.

How to control Roku with Google Assistant

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Google Assistant is kinda everywhere as of late. We’ve seen Google heavily invested in the voice-enabled platform over the last few years and now they’ve partnered with Roku to where you can shout all your favorite commands at your connected TV. With a few short steps, we are going to show you how to make this new magic happen.

What’s it do?

Once enabled you should be able to control your Roku, or Roku TV, with commands like these:

  • “Hey Google, launch The Roku Channel on Roku”
  • “Hey Google, find documentaries on Roku”
  • “Hey Google, show me comedies on Roku”
  • “Hey Google, pause on Roku”
  • “Hey Google, turn on Roku”**
  • “Hey Google, turn up the volume on Roku”
  • “Hey Google, mute on Roku”
  • “Hey Google, change to channel 5.1 on Roku”
  • “Hey Google, switch to HDMI 2 on Roku”

How to turn it on?

This is a fairly quick fix from the Google Home App. Let’s open it up and get you going:

  • Open the Google Home app on your Android device.
  • Click “Set up or add.”
  • Tap “Set up device.”
  • Choose “Have something already set up?” just below the Works with Google header.
  • Find Roku under Manage Accounts.
  • Log into your Roku account.
  • Choose your local Roku device from your personal list.
  • Click done.

Now you should be all set to start using Google Assistant to control your Roku devices. It is worth mentioning that this only works with a single Roku unit. If you have multiple devices, you have to set one single streamer to be controlled via Assistant. This is also only available for the last 2 generation of devices or so. (All Roku TV models, Roku Express (3700X, 3900X), Roku Express+ (3710X, 3910X), Roku Streaming Stick (3600X, 3800X), Roku Streaming Stick+ (3810X), Roku 2 (4210X), Roku 3 (4200X, 4230X), Roku 4 (4400X), Roku Premiere (3920X,4620X), Roku Premiere+ (3921X,4630X), and Roku Ultra (4640X, 4660X, 4661X)

Avoid exorbitant prices on long-distance calls and use CallIndia instead (Overview)

We spend so much time talking about notches, SoCs, RAM, storage, and cameras that we normally forget that our devices can also make phone calls too. Sure, there’s less and less people doing phone calls every day, and more are migrating to services such as WhatsApp and Viber to talk with friends. However, what to do if you need to call to landlines? What if you need to call to a business? Phone calls are still a useful form of communication in this day and age.

However, if you live abroad, or know someone who does, then you know how expensive it can get. Calling them or being called is just too costly, making it either impossible or something you do when there are no alternatives. For this, several apps have come to fill the void that carriers seem to neglect. One of them is Miron Enterprises’ CallIndia.

Developer: Miron Enterprises, LLC
Price: Free

Overview

CallIndia is an app that specializes in making phone calls to India. With several industries being increasingly outsourced there, and boasting the second biggest population in the world, India is becoming progressively more important to the world’s economy. Through CallIndia, users can contact family, coworkers, or acquaintances there for much cheaper prices than the ones carriers offer. The other party does not need to have an internet connection, so you can call any number just like you would use a local phone.

Setup

After installing the app, you get a small tutorial about what the app does and how does it work. You can then proceed to create an account. You can use Facebook and Google, but there’s also the possibility to do it through regular email.

This is pretty straightforward: you just input your name, email, and password, and the account is created for you. Curiously, there’s not even an email confirmation step.

After setting up the account, you cannot use it until you have added credit to it. This is rather unfortunate, since it would be great to have something like a couple of free minutes added to your account in order to test if the app works correctly on your environment. From a business point of view, I understand the lack of free minutes, but, as a user, the feature would be nice.

India Unlimited and Credits

One of the biggest draws of this app is what they call India Unlimited. This gives you unlimited minutes to india for $8.99 a month. Purchasing India Unlimited for three months knocks $1 off the monthly price, while buying six months of unlimited calls brings it down to $6.99 a month. If you call a lot, then having unlimited minutes for just seven dollars really pays off.

However, if you are not a heavy phone call user, there is also the possibility of adding credit to your account to be used as you go. It works kind of like how prepaid cards use to work years back. You top up a specific amount (starting from $2), and then it gets consumed when you make calls. The credit supposedly never expires, so there’s no pressure to spend your remaining balance.

Access Numbers

So, let’s say that you don’t have internet connection either, for whatever reason. For that situation, CallIndia provide access numbers in more than 30 countries, allowing you to call through them while still using your credit. People who live in the US and have to call people in Latin America know about this type of setup, since it was pretty popular there. It is pretty convenient and adds a lot of value to your credit or plan, since you can avoid using your data this way. However, fees for calling the access number could cancel out the data savings.

Cost and Consumption

If you go the credit route, then these are the prices:

  • India’s landlines and mobile phones: $0.0124/min
  • SMS: $0.02/SMS

That means that, for $2, you get 161 minutes or 100 SMS. In case you were wondering, minutes are rounded, so you’d better spend your minutes wisely.

According to the developer, the app uses approximately one MB per minute. Of course, talking through Wi-Fi is better for this kind of service, but if you decide to use your data plan, then you should keep the data consumption in mind. It would be pretty bad if you manage to save some money on phone calls, but incur in overage fees because you spent too much data.

Conclusion

With the internet becoming increasingly available, phone calls have taken a step back in favor of services such as Skype, Viber, Whatsapp or Facebook Messenger. However, if you need to call landlines, parties without internet, or send SMS to people abroad, then carrier costs are way too much. For these kind of situations, CallIndia manages to put together a compelling package with affordable prices, a decent app, and customer service. If you have family, business partners, or acquaintances in India, then you can check this app out and save some money in the process.

Download and install CallIndia from the Google Play Store or see more at their website.

Best wireless chargers for the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus

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The Galaxy S9 Plus is the bigger take on the 2018 flagship experience from Samsung and it’s among the more stunning phones on the market. It’s about as strong as they come and it packs one of the coolest and most convenient features you can get in a handset: wireless charging. Once you use it, it’s hard to mess with cables ever again. It’s time you get on that train!

Here are some of the best Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus wireless chargers for home, work, and even on-the-go.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Standard Platter” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

These are the flat types of chargers you’ll find on desks and night stands; they often come in circular and rectangular shapes. Many of these offer variable output speeds so they’ll play nice with your friend’s iPhone, too.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

A trusted name in the tech space for decades now, Belkin still delivers the goods. This charger pumps out up to 10-watts for your Sony and LG phones, and can optimize to 9W for Samsung. The LED indicator let you know how things are going while the rubber ring holds the handset in place. The cable is five feet long so you can plug into the out-of-the-way outlets. Purchase for $45 from Amazon or $60 from Belkin.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Samsung Fast Charge Wireless Charger Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

When it comes to smartphone popularity it’s Samsung’s pie and the rest of the players share pieces of it. If you want official accessories, this is the charger you go with for Samsung devices.

It’s about 1.4x times faster than conventional wireless tech, has a circular strip of rubber to prevent your handset from sliding around, and a bright LED to indicate charging. Offered in Black, Navy, and White to match your favorite phone. $25 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Yootech Wireless Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

When you don’t need anything fancy and don’t want to spend a ton of money, you look for something like this. Compatible with all Qi-enabled phones, it works at 5W, 7.5W, and 10W charging standards. You’ll need to use your charging adapter and cable if you go with the high speed stuff, but you already have the one that came in your phone’s box. Sleep easy knowing that the green light turns off after a few seconds so your room doesn’t glow all night. $15 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Dock Style” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Prop your phone up at a convenient angle so you can quickly glance at your notifications. Ideal for your kitchen corner or end table in the family room.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Anker PowerWave Fast Wireless Charger Stand” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

As fast as you’ll need, plus some. We like this one for its 6-ft microUSB cable and 18-month warranty. Whether you need 5W, 7.5W, or 10W of juice, this wallet-friendly option brings the power. The twin charging coils make it so you can place your phone in landscape and portrait orientation without fumbling around for connection. Works through phone cases of 5mm, too! $30 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”TYLT VU Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

The VU charger features three coils inside, so feel free to put your handset on the cradle in portrait or landscape mode know it will charge. The LED under the lip of the stand turns green to indicate that it’s charging.

The bright, plastic charger comes in is available in blue, yellow and red, or you can opt for black if you’re in the mood for something traditional. The soft-touch finish and distinctive design give this charger a look that’s really unique and that’s why we’ve added it to this list. $30 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Corus 10W Fast Wireless Charger Stand” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Simple, compact, and a tad bit stylish, this stand doesn’t take up much room on your desk. The dual coils mean it’s as convenient to set your phone upright as it is to flip it on its side for watching Netflix. You’ll have to use your own charging adapter if you want to use the Quick Charge 2.0 or Quick Charge 3.0 technology, but doing so means much less down time. $20 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”On-the-Go Charging” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

For true wireless convenience you want something that goes with you, right? Whether it’s a library, coffee shop, or in an airport terminal, these wireless chargers have built-in batteries that allow for power-ups everywhere.

[vc_custom_heading text=”RAVPower 10400mAh Fast Wireless Charging Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

With a generous 10,400mAh worth of power, this charger can double or triple the time you use your smartphone. And, because time is always of the essence, the power bank offers up to 10W fast charging. Out for dinner with friends or loved ones? Let them plug in through the USB port and get some of that recharge action, too. $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Fonesalesman QiStone+” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Yo dawg, we heard you like wireless charging so we put wireless charging in a wireless charger. Seriously, you can top this portable unit off by placing it on another wireless charger.

The 4,000mAh internal battery ensures your night doesn’t end early because you have to get home. What’s more, it’s portable enough to toss in a bag or backpack so feel free to stay out and keep the party going. While everyone else fights over the car adapter you can sit in the backseat with your own power source. $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”mophie Powerstation Wireless External Battery Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

From one of the first names in charging, this portable device delivers 6,040mAh of backup power. In other words, that’s 2-3 times that you don’t have to plug into the wall. Ideal for college students, frequent flying types, and people who simply hate dealing with cables. The four LED lights let you know how much you’ve got left in the tank while the two-year warranty tells you to sleep easy at night. $80 at mophie

[vc_custom_heading text=”Car Solutions” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Why waste an opportunity to turn that daily commute into a convenient and flexible way of recharging? These are devices that hold your phone in place and provide a wireless charge.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Vansky 2-in-1 Wireless Car Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Suction this one to your dashboard or snap in the attachment and place it on your air vent for true convenience. With up to 10W of charging you’ll be sure to get the most efficient charge possible, even on short little trips to the grocery store. The clamp arm automatically locks your phone into place; touch the metal or press the button to release the device when you’re at your destination. $40 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”iOttie Easy One Touch Car Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Stick it to your dashboard or invert the head and mount it to your windshield. It’s your car, do what you want. The telescopic arm extends from around 5-inches out to 8.3-inches and pivots on a 225 degree arc so there’s no reason you can’t have your phone exactly where you want and how you want it. The plug itself has a USB port so you can share your power source with another rider. That’s twice as nice! $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”BESTHING Wireless Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

The gravity design makes dropping your phone into place about as easy at it gets. Simply set it down and watch as the arms come in to hug the handset into place. Prefer the air vent over the dashboard placement? No problem! We’re also fans of the large coil that connects to our battery; the smart technology allows for 5W, 7.5W, and 10W speeds. $33 at Amazon.

Alcatel 1X review, an Android Go phone on a budget that keeps you waiting

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Android Go phones don’t get the attention that midrange and flagship phones do, but they serve a valuable purpose. Phones such as the Alcatel 1X provide a device with one of the most recent versions of Android at an affordable price. When I say affordable, I really mean it and Alcatel looks to give you as much as they can for a $100 phone.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to a phone that can be picked up for as little as $100 you don’t expect much from the design and materials. The Alcatel 1X is comparable to most other phones in this bracket when it comes to materials. Using a 5.3-inch 480 x 960 display with no oleophobic coating, meaning it will spend most of its time covered in greasy fingerprints.

Even if it had an oleophobic coating, that still wouldn’t do much to help this display. The screen resolution is so low pixels are clearly visible and the dim backlight makes it difficult to see in bright sunlight. However, the back is made of a soft touch plastic that won’t impress but feels nice in the hand and is durable.

Where the Alcatel 1X does stand out is by including the new trendier 18:9 aspect ratio. Using this new aspect ratio makes it easier to hold your phone by making it slimmer and taller. It is something you typically see on flagships and higher-end midrange phones though. Alcatel did a good job by including it on the 1X to help it stand out amongst the crowd.

Not content with only using the new aspect ratio, Alcatel also included a fingerprint scanner. Yet another feature you would be hard pressed to find on a phone in the $100 price bracket.

Another way Alcatel impressed me is by placing the only speaker on the phone in the earpiece. By utilizing the earpiece as the loudspeaker it ensures that the audio from videos, games, and music is projected directly at you.

No worries about covering the only speaker on your phone with your hand or being forced to hold the phone in an awkward position. While the speaker itself wasn’t the best quality, simply having it face you makes it sound much better and louder.

If you enjoy using headphones more than the speaker, then you’ll be happy that Alcatel included a headphone jack. Unfortunately, the other port on the phone is micro USB instead of USB-C.

An argument could be made that most people buying a phone in this price range might not have a collection of USB-C cables and that using a micro USB port also keeps the cost down. However, I’m in the crowd that wants to see micro USB killed off and I’m tired of seeing new devices released using this outdated port.

There is a microSD card slot included on the left side of the phone and with only 16GB of storage, you’ll be happy to have access to it. While Alcatel’s site claims it only works with cards up to 32GB I was able to use my 64GB card with it. The only issue being it required me to format the card while no other phone ever has.

Software

The Alcatel 1X runs Android Oreo 8.1 Go Edition, which is not your typical version of Android. This is like Android Oreo put on a diet, where you get all the great features of Android but in a slimmed down package. By taking advantage of this version of Android you gain nearly twice the amount of storage along with lighter apps that run faster on lesser hardware.

Read More: What is Android Go?

While using Android Go Edition I never found myself wanting or lacking any of the features I regularly use on my own phone. It even includes extra features such as night mode, one-handed mode, and customization of the navigation bar.

Performance

The Alcatel 1X isn’t the first low-cost Android phone I’ve ever used or reviewed. I’ve come to expect the performance to be, in a word, frustrating. Indeed, that’s what I encountered with the Alcatel 1X. I was hoping it would run faster or smoother by utilizing Android Go, but instead, I encountered the same lag I’m accustomed to from other entry-level Android phones. While waiting for apps to load and especially games it can really test your patience.

However, it would be a lot to ask for a quad-core 1.28GHz Mediatek processor to load most Android apps quickly. The one bright spot was that it handled multitasking quite well compared to other phones with 1GB of RAM. Generally, I’m accustomed to other phones dropping apps out of memory more frequently even with 2GB of RAM.

That doesn’t mean it is great for multitasking, only that it is better than other phones I’ve used in the past with this little of RAM. Undoubtedly, this must be one of the benefits of using Android Go and the Google Go apps.

Camera

The 8MP f/2.0 rear camera is not going to win you any photography awards, but you have to remember this is a $100 phone. It features an HDR mode that appears to make everything overly bright and makes taking photos much longer. The dynamic range overall is lacking and low light images exhibit a lot of noise. Overall the camera is functional but not impressive.

Unfortunately, the front camera appears to be even worse. I struggled to find an area where I could take a selfie that would illuminate my face. The 1X continuously compensated for the exposure of the background rather than exposing for my face. Even when I tapped my face on the screen, it did no good.

Battery Life

In general, entry-level phones have great battery life and the Alcatel 1X is no exception. Due to their slow processors, lower resolution screens, and generous batteries they tend to sip battery power. With the Alcatel 1X I was able to get 5 hours screen on time in a day and with more moderate usage up to two days of use. The battery life is one area the 1X won’t disappoint.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Alcatel 1X isn’t a fast phone, it’s not great at taking photos, but it is a quality phone for the price. There aren’t many $100 phones that offer an 18:9 aspect ratio and a fingerprint scanner, let alone both. Even though the specs are less than impressive, the use of Android Go helps squeeze out a little extra performance over others that run traditional Android.

Typically when you’re in the market for a new affordable phone, you cannot be too particular about finding one with extra features. Alcatel looks to give you a small taste of some premium features without breaking the bank.

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Get these phones with MASSIVE batteries for up to 50% off (promoted)

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The peak smartphone purchasing season is upon us. With new smartphones released one after another, it’s hard to stand out in the crowd. But OUKITEL’s WP2 smartphone has an amazing 10,000 mAh battery and now, you can get it for as much as 50% off for one day only.

OUKITEL WP2: 10000mAh Rugged Phone

If you want a massive battery, the OUKITEL WP2 is a fantastic choice. It has a great combination of battery life and performance due to the MediaTek 6750T octa-core processor, clocked at 1.5 GHz. This is paired with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage, expandable by 128 GB. If that’s not enough, the device is waterproof, dust-proof, and shock-proof due to its IP68 rating. While the phone is normally priced at $249.99, you can get it for only $216.99 on 11/11. Here’s a look at the rest of the specs:

  • IP68 waterproof, dust-proof and shockproof
  • 10000mAh high-density battery with 9V/2A quick charger
  • 6 inch 18:9 corning gorilla glass display
  • 16MP Samsung S5K2P7 rear camera and 8MP front camera
  • MT6750T Octa-core processor, 1.5Ghz, 4GB RAM+64GB ROM, 128GB expansion
  • face ID and side fingerprint double unlock
  • NFC support
  • GPS, Glonass, geomagnetic and gyroscope supported
  • Super LED flashlight with 4LED lights

OUKITEL WP1: a 5,000 mAh rugged smartphone

If the OUKITEL WP2 isn’t your style, you can save a little bit of money and grab the OUKITEL WP1, another great smartphone. It features a 5,000 mAH battery, a rugged body, and an IP68 rating. It also features both regular and fast wireless charging. You can get the WP1 for just $159.09, down from its retail price of $179.99, during the 11/11 sale. Here’s the rest of the features.

  • IP68 waterproof, grade dust-proof, shock-proof
  • wireless charging support
  • 5000mAh battery with 9V/2A fast charging
  • 18:9 aspect ratio 5.5-inch capacitive display with a resolution of 1440×720 pixels
  • MediaTek MT6763 octa-core processor,2.0GHz ;GPU: Mali G71, 2700MHz GPU
  • 4 GB RAM, 64GB ROM; 128 GB expandable memory; support microSD cards
  • Dual-lens rear camera with Sony IMX135 13MP sensor and 2 MP secondary camera for blur mode, 5-megapixel front camera, GC5025 sensor
  • Support two nano SIM card or 1 nano SIM with 1 SD card; support 4G LTE
  • Android 8.1 Oreo
  • Fingerprint sensor /face ID/ Proximity sensor/ Gravity sensor/ Light sensor/Compass/gyroscope/geomagnetic sensor

OUKITEL K7 Power: Cheapest 10000mAh battery smartphone

The OUKITEL K7 Power is the most cost-effective 10,000 mAh battery due to its entry level flash memory, but high-end features. It features a 6-inch HD display with a 10,000 mAH battery, 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage. It also has a Sony 13 MP dual-les rear camera, and an octa-core processor.  The OUKITEL K7 Power retails in price for $129.99, but it drops to just $98.26 during the 11/11 sale. Here are the rest of the features:

  • 6-inch display with a resolution of 1440×720 (18: 9);
  • octa-core processor MediaTek MT6750T clocked at 1.5 GHz
  • graphic accelerator ARM Mali-T860 MP2 520MHz
  • 2 GB RAM+16GB ROM
  • Dual-lens rear camera, 13MP Sony IMX214 sensor and 2MP; 5MP front camera
  • 10000mAh battery with 9V/2A quick charge
  • two nano-SIM card slots; support TF card
  • fingerprint scanner
  • Android 8.1

OUKITEL C11 Pro: most cost-effective 4G entry-level smartphone

Based on the price, other 4G entry-level smartphones only get 2GB RAM+16GB ROM, but the C11 Pro gets 3GB RAM+16GB ROM. Its aim is to create the most wallet-friendly smartphone with fashionable design and good performance. Dropping to the lowest price, OUKITEL C11 Pro will be only $62.39 on 11/11 sale out of the retail price of $79.99. Here are the rest of the features:

  • 5.5”display with 720*1440 pixels, 18:9 aspect ratio
  • 8.0MP+2MP rear camera, flashlight support, 5.0MP front camera
  • 3,400mAh removable, 5V/1A charger
  • Android 8.1
  • MT6739 quad-core 1.5GHz Cortex A53
  • 3GB RAM+16GB ROM, 64GB expandable
  • Sensors: Fingerprint sensor/Gravity sensor/proximity sensor/Light sensor

OUKITEL C12 Pro: most cost-effective 6.18 notch display smartphone

Since Apple released notch display smartphones, many brands are following the trend. The OUKITEL C12 Pro is a beautiful notch displayed smartphone with 2GB RAM and 16GB ROM, with the cheapest price at its level. Retail price for OUKITEL C12 Pro is $89.99, but it only costs $67.99 on 11/11. Here are all the features:

  • 19:9 aspect ratio design, slim and thin
  • big 6.18 inch capacitive display with 5 points multi-touch
  • 3300mAh battery
  • 8MP/2MP dual lens rear camera and 5MP front camera
  • MediaTek MT6739 quad-core processor
  • 2GB RAM+16GB ROM with 64GB expandable memory
  • fingerprint unlock and Face ID unlock
  • 3 card slots: dual nano SIM and one TF card

OUKITEL K3: Sony style 6000mAh battery smartphone

The OUKITEL K3 displays a stunningly beautiful design, which is not like any other big battery smartphones. A delicate design together with rich connotation, offering a fresh new trend in big battery smartphone field. Powerful 6000mAh battery K3 will be only $129.99 during the 11/11 sale. Here’s all of the features you can expect:

  • MT6750T octa-core 1.5GHz ARM T860 MP3
  • 4GB RAM+64GB ROM, 64GB expandable
  • 5.5-inch FHD Display, 1920*1080 pixels
  • Primary cameras: 13.0MP+2MP, 16MP interpolated, flashlight support
  • Secondary cameras: 5.0MP+2MP,16MP interpolated, flashlight support
  • Battery: 6,000mAh, 9V/2A charger
  • Android 7.0 Nougat
  • Sensors: Fingerprint sensor/Gravity sensor/proximity sensor/Light sensor/gyroscope sensor/geomagnetic sensor

OUKITEL K6000 Plus: 6080mAh large battery smartphone with 12V/2A charger

OUKITEL K6000 Plus has been quite a hot seller since it was released. It combines 6080mAh battery with fast 12V/2A quick charge, 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM, octa-core processor and front touch ID. OUKITEL is offering this K6000 Plus at a big sale on 11.11: only $127.74 while it was sold at $179.99 when first released. Here’s the spec sheet:

  • 6080mAh large battery
  • 12V/2A quick charge
  • large 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM storage,128GB expandable. MT6750T octa-core processor
  • fast focus 16MP rear camera and 8MP front camera
  • Front press fingerprint
  • 5.5 inch FHD display with 5-points multi-touch
  • full metal with 2.5D design

You can find out more information on all of OUKITEL’s devices on its website.

Best wireless chargers for the Samsung Galaxy S9

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The Samsung Galaxy S9 is one of the most sophisticated phones we’ve ever seen and is about as feature-rich as they come. One of the best options, wireless charging, gives users peace of mind. If you haven’t had the privilege, you’ll certainly want to take advantage of the technology. Here are some of the best Samsung Galaxy S9 wireless chargers for home, work, and even on-the-go.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Standard Platter” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

These are the flat types of chargers you’ll find on desks and night stands; they often come in circular and rectangular shapes. Many of these offer variable output speeds so they’ll play nice with your friend’s iPhone, too.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

A trusted name in the tech space for decades now, Belkin still delivers the goods. This charger pumps out up to 10-watts for your Sony and LG phones, and can optimize to 9W for Samsung. The LED indicator let you know how things are going while the rubber ring holds the handset in place. The cable is five feet long so you can plug into the out-of-the-way outlets. Purchase for $45 from Amazon or $60 from Belkin.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Samsung Fast Charge Wireless Charger Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

When it comes to smartphone popularity it’s Samsung’s pie and the rest of the players share pieces of it. If you want official accessories, this is the charger you go with for Samsung devices.

It’s about 1.4x times faster than conventional wireless tech, has a circular strip of rubber to prevent your handset from sliding around, and a bright LED to indicate charging. Offered in Black, Navy, and White to match your favorite phone. $25 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Yootech Wireless Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

When you don’t need anything fancy and don’t want to spend a ton of money, you look for something like this. Compatible with all Qi-enabled phones, it works at 5W, 7.5W, and 10W charging standards. You’ll need to use your charging adapter and cable if you go with the high speed stuff, but you already have the one that came in your phone’s box. Sleep easy knowing that the green light turns off after a few seconds so your room doesn’t glow all night. $15 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Dock Style” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Prop your phone up at a convenient angle so you can quickly glance at your notifications. Ideal for your kitchen corner or end table in the family room.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Anker PowerWave Fast Wireless Charger Stand” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

As fast as you’ll need, plus some. We like this one for its 6-ft microUSB cable and 18-month warranty. Whether you need 5W, 7.5W, or 10W of juice, this wallet-friendly option brings the power. The twin charging coils make it so you can place your phone in landscape and portrait orientation without fumbling around for connection. Works through phone cases of 5mm, too! $30 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”TYLT VU Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

The VU charger features three coils inside, so feel free to put your handset on the cradle in portrait or landscape mode know it will charge. The LED under the lip of the stand turns green to indicate that it’s charging.

The bright, plastic charger comes in is available in blue, yellow and red, or you can opt for black if you’re in the mood for something traditional. The soft-touch finish and distinctive design give this charger a look that’s really unique and that’s why we’ve added it to this list. $30 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Corus 10W Fast Wireless Charger Stand” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Simple, compact, and a tad bit stylish, this stand doesn’t take up much room on your desk. The dual coils mean it’s as convenient to set your phone upright as it is to flip it on its side for watching Netflix. You’ll have to use your own charging adapter if you want to use the Quick Charge 2.0 or Quick Charge 3.0 technology, but doing so means much less down time. $20 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”On-the-Go Charging” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

For true wireless convenience you want something that goes with you, right? Whether it’s a library, coffee shop, or in an airport terminal, these wireless chargers have built-in batteries that allow for power-ups everywhere.

[vc_custom_heading text=”RAVPower 10400mAh Fast Wireless Charging Pad” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

With a generous 10,400mAh worth of power, this charger can double or triple the time you use your smartphone. And, because time is always of the essence, the power bank offers up to 10W fast charging. Out for dinner with friends or loved ones? Let them plug in through the USB port and get some of that recharge action, too. $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Fonesalesman QiStone+” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Yo dawg, we heard you like wireless charging so we put wireless charging in a wireless charger. Seriously, you can top this portable unit off by placing it on another wireless charger.

The 4,000mAh internal battery ensures your night doesn’t end early because you have to get home. What’s more, it’s portable enough to toss in a bag or backpack so feel free to stay out and keep the party going. While everyone else fights over the car adapter you can sit in the backseat with your own power source. $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”mophie Powerstation Wireless External Battery Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

From one of the first names in charging, this portable device delivers 6,040mAh of backup power. In other words, that’s 2-3 times that you don’t have to plug into the wall. Ideal for college students, frequent flying types, and people who simply hate dealing with cables. The four LED lights let you know how much you’ve got left in the tank while the two-year warranty tells you to sleep easy at night. $80 at mophie

[vc_custom_heading text=”Car Solutions” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%23191919″ google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Why waste an opportunity to turn that daily commute into a convenient and flexible way of recharging? These are devices that hold your phone in place and provide a wireless charge.

[vc_custom_heading text=”Vansky 2-in-1 Wireless Car Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Suction this one to your dashboard or snap in the attachment and place it on your air vent for true convenience. With up to 10W of charging you’ll be sure to get the most efficient charge possible, even on short little trips to the grocery store. The clamp arm automatically locks your phone into place; touch the metal or press the button to release the device when you’re at your destination. $40 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”iOttie Easy One Touch Car Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

Stick it to your dashboard or invert the head and mount it to your windshield. It’s your car, do what you want. The telescopic arm extends from around 5-inches out to 8.3-inches and pivots on a 225 degree arc so there’s no reason you can’t have your phone exactly where you want and how you want it. The plug itself has a USB port so you can share your power source with another rider. That’s twice as nice! $50 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”BESTHING Wireless Charger” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”]

The gravity design makes dropping your phone into place about as easy at it gets. Simply set it down and watch as the arms come in to hug the handset into place. Prefer the air vent over the dashboard placement? No problem! We’re also fans of the large coil that connects to our battery; the smart technology allows for 5W, 7.5W, and 10W speeds. $33 at Amazon.

Mount Genie offers a variety of accessories for Google Home, Echo Dot, and other devices

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If you own a smart device from Google or Amazon, you might find that as awesome as it is, things could be a little more convenient. Not so much in what they can do, but where and how they can be placed, physically.

Let’s say, for instance, that you have a Google Home Mini that you’d like to put in your kitchen. The problem? You don’t have any counter space near the open outlets. That’s where something from Mount Genie comes in handy.

A few months back we had the chance to review some of the early generation accessories and were eager to recommend them for anyone who owned one of the connected smart products.

Mount Genie is back with a new lineup for fall, refreshing and expanding its portfolio. We’ve been sent a handful of a few of the new accessories for the Google Home Mini. Moreover, it has new stuff for the Amazon Fire TV Cube, Echo Dot, Google WiFi, and video doorbell systems like Ring.

Here’s a quick primer on a few of the products currently available from Mount Genie.

Google Home Mini Pedestal

A lightweight and interesting device that flips your Google Home Mini on its side. This way you get a more direct line of sight and visuals to help identify when your assistant is working with, and for, you. The rubber bottoms not only absorbs vibration, but it keeps your Home Mini from sliding around around. Available in a handful of colors (Charcoal, Silver, and White), you can purchase them from Mount Genie and Amazon.

Google Home Mini “Affordable Essentials” Outlet Mount

A great way to get your Google Home Mini off the counter or night stand, this is a wallet-friendly accessory for all environments. It works great whether you’ve got a horizontal or vertical layout for the outlet, or if it’s tucked under a counter top or breakfast bar.

Simply snap your Google Home Mini into place, wrap the cord around the back, and plug in. It’s the affordable approach that has us reconsidering where we want to place our digital devices. Actually, it has us thinking we need to pick up more for hallways, too. Pick one up in either black or white for just $8 at Mount Genie and Amazon.

Google Home Mini Backpack Outlet Mount

Not only do we hate giving up precious space on our cluttered shelves and counters, but we’re not fans of that cord, either. Even if it’s a few inches hanging out, it can get in the way.

This solution requires no tools and moves your Home Mini to the wall outlet, essentially removing the cord up in the process. It snaps together in a couple of seconds and plugs right in, using any outlet. Be it portrait, landscape, under a counter, or up on the ceiling, this puts the speaker where you want or need.

Available in three colors (White, Black, and Coral), you can mix and match to your Google Home Mini. These run just $15 a piece at Mount Genie and Amazon.

Google WiFi Outlet Holder Mount [Pro Version]

Having a mesh wireless network is incredibly awesome, but it does rely on the proper placement of your devices. Google WiFi owners can attest to how cool it is; however, they will also tell you that it uses an outlet and sits on a desk or stand, and that’s not always convenient.

This a great solution which lets Google WiFi users set their devices in places they might not have previously considered. All you need to do here is screw the stand in under the wall outlet, and use the same cord. Now you can use hallways and rooms that might have been unusable. Purchase one for only $10 at Mount Genie and Amazon; 2-pack and 3-pack options are also available.

Other Accessories to Consider

Amazon Echo Fire TV Cube Wall Mount – This mount flips the streaming cube 90 degrees, turning it outward. The microphone and controls face the room and the wires are moved to the side or bottom. It goes on in a matter of moments and only requires a screwdriver for installation. Grab it for $11 at Mount Genie and Amazon.

The Package Mat [Basic] – A simple way to let delivery drivers know where to leave packages. Passersby won’t notice it’s there and will keep driving, unaware that your delivery is tucked back out of the way. Priced at $9 through Mount Genie and Amazon.

The Package Mat [Deluxe] – Fitted with a dry erase board, this mat allows the inclusion of custom messages. It’s a good way to leave a key code or let the driver know you’ll be out back to receive the package. These run $15 a piece at Mount Genie and Amazon.

Package Spy for Video Doorbells – A new accessory to complement your Nest or Ring video doorbell – allows the viewing of packages from the video monitor. Ask to see the front door using a mobile app or Home Hub and the mirror reflects the ground below. Priced at $10 at Mount Genie and Amazon.

Sprint dials up rugged Cat S48c phone for $20 per month

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Sprint and Cat today announced the S48c, a smartphone with military-grade toughness. Designed to handle shock, moisture, drops, dust, altitude, and extreme temperatures, it features a programmable push-to-talk (PTT) button and is compatible with Sprint’s Direct Connect service.

Cat says its phone is intrinsically safe, meaning it can be used in hazardous conditions and environments with flammable vapors. This is a first for the handset maker, and puts the device in a market space of its own.

Cat S48c Specifications

In the past we would find that rugged phones were not synonymous with powerful hardware. That’s not really the case here as the S48c offers up a fairly decent set of specifications.

What’s the difference in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors?

Powered by a 2.2GHz octa-core (Snapdragon 630) processor, the device has 4GB RAM with 32GB of internal storage. Should you need more room for media, the microSD expansion card slot allows for another 128GB worth of space.

The main camera is a 13-megapixel sensor with an LED flash while the front-facing one has a 5-megapixel lens. What makes these particularly special, though, is that they’ll work just fine under water.

In terms of screen size, the S48c packs a 5-inch full HD display with Gorilla Glass 5 protection. Moreover, there’s wet finger tracking and glove mode, so it’s not only strong and sturdy, but responds to touch in any condition.

Rounding things out, there’s a 4,000mAh battery to deliver upwards of two days of usage per charge. And, while it ships with Android 8 Oreo, Cat has committed to an Android 9 Pie update.

Availability

The Cat S48c will run $480, or break out to $20 per month on Sprint Lease. Look for it in Sprint stores and online starting November 9.

Fossil’s first Snapdragon Wear 3100-based smartwatch is a colorful and sporty one

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Fossil today has unveiled its first smartwatch based on the new Snapdragon Wear 3100 wearable platform. It’s called the Fossil Sport and as the name indicates, it’s a smartwatch aimed at health and activity enthusiasts.

At the same time, the Fossil Sport is perhaps the most colorful Fossil smartwatch yet. The product will be launched in two case sizes (41 and 43 mm respectively), six colorways and with 28 silicon strap options.

The Fossil Sport is based on the newly redesigned Wear OS which comes equipped with a few and upgraded features including extended battery life, a new battery saving mode and enhanced ambient mode.

Fossil proves that sporty smartwatches can be stylish

The wearable relies on a pretty large 350 mAh battery and in combination with the new power-efficient Snapdragon Wear 3100 will be able to able to offer extended battery life. According to Fossil, the Sport will be able to sustain up to 24+ hours of battery life + 2 additional days in battery saver watch mode. The watch has rapid charging, so users should be able to fully recharge the gadget in under an hour.

As expected from such a sporty device like this, the new Fossil is riddled with sensors including a heart rate one, NFC, GPS, Ambient Light and Gyroscope. This rich array will provide all provide owners with a plenty of features.

Fossil has created three hero watch faces for its first Snapdragon 3100 watch, which integrates Google Fit to display progress towards two new activity goals: Move Minutes and Heart Points. Google created these based on recommendations from the American Heart Association and World Health Organization.

On top of that, the Fossil Sport will also ship pre-installed with some apps including Spotify and Noonlight, an app designed to provide assistance and comfort.

The smartwatch will go on sale on November 8 via Fossil’s official store for $255. The product’s availability will be extended to select Fossil retail stores, come November 12.

The watch will also be part of a new campaign led by model and marathoner, Candice Huffine.