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Best wireless chargers for the Samsung Galaxy S9

AndroidGuys
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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

AndroidGuys
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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

AndroidGuys
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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

Alexandra Arici
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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.

ThriftyDroid: Motorola slashes up to $200 off phones for limited time

AndroidGuys
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It’s November so that means we’re in that time of year where hardware makers and retailers start dropping prices. Not just a few bucks or so, but more noteworthy (read: sizable) discounts and savings.

Motorola, wanting to waste time, is already out with limited-time deals for a number of its phones. These are while supplies last so they’re subject to end at any time.

Here’s what the handset maker has in store for the time being:

Google announces Android is getting on board with foldable displays

Alexandra Arici
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Samsung’s upcoming foldable smartphone was finally revealed during its Developer Conference yesterday.

Well soon afterwards, Google also issued a press statement to announce that Android has added native platform support for a new class of devices called “foldables”. Actually, Samsung and Google have been working together when creating the new One UI for Samsung’s phones. So it’s no surprise Google is adding support to this novel form factor.

The idea is that Android will strive to offer a smooth transition from the folded screen state to the unfolded one. To that end, Android developers have already started tackling the problem of fluid two-screen/one-screen software experience, as you can see in the .gif below.

While the foldable phone category is pretty limited at the moment, that won’t be the case for long. Android OEMs like Huawei, LG and Xiaomi are all experimenting with curved displays of their own, so expect more of these devices to make an appearance soon.

Currently, customers interested in trying the flexible form factor out have only one choice at their disposal. Offered by obscure startup Royole, the FlexiPai smartphone is available for pre-order for those willing to spend a small fortune.

Unlike Samsung, the company is using a single folding display outside of the device. In contrast, the Korean tech giant’s phone will use two separate displays to create the foldable phone, one on the inside and a smaller one on the outside.

More details about Samsung’s foldable phone have been revealed

The big display stretches to 7.3-inch in size and features 1536 x 2152 resolution (4:2:3 aspect ratio). When it folds it reveals a secondary 4.58-inch screen with 840 x 1960 resolution (21:9).

The Infinity Flex Display has been a true challenge for Samsung who had to invent new materials to make the phone pliable. The flexible screen uses a polymer that has been described as being flexible, but though. This means the panel can retain its strength even when folded and unfolded for hundreds of thousands of times.

Mobile devices have looked the same ever since their dawn, but now that’s all about to change. Excited about what’s coming? Let us know in the comment section below.

Ten apps to save you money while Christmas shopping

Alexandra Arici
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Christmas is perhaps the best time of the year – but not for your finances. The holiday season is notoriously hard on personal budgets and every year your bank account usually takes a hard hit during the period.

To avoid all that in 2018, you’ll need to try to plan ahead and do as much bargain shopping as you can. With this in mind, we’ve gathered up ten great Android apps to help you save money while Christmas shopping.

Shopkick

What it is:

An app which lets you earn points (called kicks) as you shop for the items you need. You can cash the kicks in for gift cards that can be used at a wide range of retailers.

Why we like it:

  • Shopkick includes four simple ways to earn kicks: walk-ins, scans, receipts, or linked card. For example, when the app detects your location (let’s say Walmart) you’ll automatically receive 25 kicks at the entrance. Scanning recipients can earn you 100 to 500 kicks while scanning items will get you 10 to 50 kicks. Link your credit card and you can earn up to 200 kicks.
  • Fun fact: you don’t have to actually buy the products you scan. Simply walk in the store and scan items for kicks.
  • Users can quickly redeem their points by clicking on the balance number.
  • The app also allows users to earn money by shopping online. Although the process is a bit different here. This time around, you’ll be awarded kicks for every dollar you spend. Tap the Offers icon in the app, to see the online kick offers.
  • Need more kicks? Simply refer a friend. This can earn you up to 2,500 kicks.
  • Shopkick allows you to earn gift cards to shop at popular retailers like Walmart, Target, Sephora, Nike, HomeGoods and so on.

Download Shopkick

Flipp

What it is:

One of the best coupon apps around that gives you access to thousands of discounts on products from every category.

Why we like it:

  • The app lets you search deals and coupons by item, brand or category. So you can easily find the products you want to acquire with a discount.
  • Flipp matches local flyer deals with coupons from brands for even bigger savings.
  • You can also use the app to create and share their shopping list.
  • US users can simply add their loyalty cards to Flipp and then clip coupon deals to their cards to get instant savings at checkout.
  • The app sends reminders about expiration dates, new offers and more.

Download Flipp

ShopSavvy

What it is:

A money saving app that comes with a built-in barcode scanner which allows you to quickly scan barcodes in order to compare prices.

Why we like it:

  • ShopSavvy displays other prices associated with a product including online options when you scan a certain item. This way you can get the product at the lowest price.
  • Read and compare real reviews for every product you’re thinking of buying.
  • The app will serve up some of the best deals for this shopping season at major retailers including Walmart, Best Buy or Target.

Download ShopSavvy

RetailMeNot

What it is:

An award-winning app that lets you access thousands of nearby deals from your favorites stores, as well as restaurants.

Why we like it:

  • App unlocks deals on everything from electronics and beauty products to clothing and food (in case you need help in the kitchen this Christmas) from retailers you love like Kohl’s, Bath&Body Works or JCPenny.
  • Find discounts near your location. The app includes a handy mall map.
  • The app notifies you when new deals nearby become available.
  • Redeem your coupons directly from the app, including discount gift cards and in-store Cash Back Offers.

Download RetailMeNot

Ibotta

What it is:

Don’t want Christmas dinner to cost a fortune this year? Ibotta is an app that offers cash rebates for grocery (and more) purchases throughout more than 80 stores.

Why we like it:

  • Ibotta uses your location to display the best and nearest rebates you can get on grocery items.
  • But the app also has rebates on things that are harder to save on like wine or diapers.
  • You can earn cash back simply by scanning your receipt barcode and using your favorite shopping apps.
  • Get cash back via PayPal or Venmo or a pick from a variety of gift cards.
  • You can get rebates in-store, as well as online.

Download Ibotta

Ebates

What it is:

It’s never too early to start planning for Christmas. Which is why you should totally take advantage of the Black Friday shopping holiday for gift shopping purposes. And with the Ebates app, you can do just that.

Why we like it:

  • Contains a section dedicated to the Black Friday 2018 event. Use the app to save money with deals and coupons or get cash back at eBay, Walmart, Amazon and more (online or otherwise)
  • Need help carrying all the gifts you just bought? Ebates lets you cash back on Lyft rides. You can get $1 cash back on every ride.
  • Get paid via PayPal or check.
  • Get $25 for every friend who signs up and shops using Ebates.

Download Ebates

Squirrel

What is it:

We’re two months removed from Christmas, so it might be time to do some saving up. Better late than never, right? The Squirrel app helps you that.

Why we like it:

  • We know how hard is to put money aside. But Squirrel is a powerful tool which basically handles your paycheck. To use it you will have to agree to get your salary paid into a separate account, which is handled by Barclays.
  • The app will gradually release money back into your usual account, so you don’t spend it all at once.
  • You can tell the app when bills are due and disposable income is handed off in weekly installments.
  • Great app if you want to make sure you’ve put some money aside for Christmas shopping.

Note: The app has a month subscription fee of £3.99 / $5.22.

Download Squirrel

Mint

What it is:

A free personal finance app that helps you stay on top of your budget, and save some money in the process too.

Why we like it:

  • The app lets you view the status of all your bank account at a glance, track your spending, create budgets, as well as set saving goals.
  • Since Christmas is such a crazy time for everyone, the app will remind you when bills are due, so you don’t fall behind your payments.
  • Mint is a very secure app that uses multi-factor authentication to keep your financial information private.

Download Mint

Christmas Gift List

What it is:

A simple app that makes setting up Christmas gift lists a breeze. Never buy a last-minute gift ever again.

Why we like it:

  • Buying gifts last minute is a lot more expensive, so if you want to make sure you save some money this holiday season, you better try and do your Christmas shopping in advance. The Christmas Gift List app will help you do that, by allowing you easily set up shopping lists for ALL your family members and friends.
  • Each gift entry contains a picture, personalized note and link, as well as the budget allotted to it.
  • The app also displays useful stats like money spent so far and the total budget.

Download Christmas Gift List

LetGo

What it is:

Need money to beef up your Christmas budget? LetGo is a useful app that lets you easily sell second-hand stuff locally.

Why we like it:

  • A very easy to use app that allows you to have your items up and for sale in just a few minutes.
  • Simply take a picture of what you’d like to sell, set a price and choose a category for it. You can also add some additional details to make the offer more attractive. Don’t forget to set your location, so local buyers can find you.
  • Potential buyers can contact you through the app’s chat feature.

Download LetGo

So with Christmas just around the corner, which of these apps would you like to try first?

Best LG V40 ThinQ cases

AndroidGuys
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The LG V40 ThinQ is one of the most revolutionary phones of all time, let alone 2018. With its five cameras, super-smart artificial intelligence, and incredible hardware, it’s the sort of device that runs circles around the competition. If you’re among those who have invested in the gorgeous monster, you’ll want to ensure it stays safe. To that end, you need a case. Whether it’s something simple and understated, practical, or overly flashy, there’s plenty of to choose from. Here are some of the best LG V40 ThinQ cases available.

See Also: Best cases for the Google Pixel 3 XL

[vc_custom_heading text=”Ringke Onyx Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Offered in Black or Lilac Purple, this TPU case is slim and flexible and withstands the scuffs and scratches that come from everyday life. Precision cutouts and responsive buttons give you the same access and functionality that comes without a case. A small lanyard hole can be found on the side, letting you double up on peace of mind. $10 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Arkour Minimalist Ultra Thin Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Available in a variety of colors, you can pick this slim case up in either smooth or gravel finishes. The former is sleek and silky with a texture that minimizes fingerprints. The latter provides a sandstone-like material that grips nicely for sure-handed usage. The case has a low profile that adds very little to the size and weight, adding more than a splash of color in the process. Thanks to the raised lip you can feel confident flipping the phone over on its face. $12 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Urban Armor Gear Plasma Series Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Your phone is a lean, mean, multi-tasking machine so give it a case that fits the bill. Offered in Ice or Ash options, this one is much lighter than it looks. Don’t be fooled by the weight, though, the case stands up to nicks, bumps, and drops. In fact, its MIL STD 810G rating meets military drop tests. At ease, solider.  $40 at Urban Armor Gear

[vc_custom_heading text=”One Tough Shield Dual Layer Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

The inside is made of durable TPU that absorbs drops and shock while the outer shell is rigid poly-carbonate plastic. It’s a no-frills option that keeps a little bit of money in your pocket. Plus, thanks to the digital camo print, it’s not like the other cases here. We have a hard time blindly following what everyone else does, too. $12 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Incipio DualPro Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Peace of mind comes in the form of two layers of protection; the inner core absorbs shock while the outside withstands scratches. Improving on its classic design, the Incipio case is attractively slim and comes in Rose Gold and Black. $30 at Incipio

[vc_custom_heading text=”Poetic Revolution Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Want a phone case that looks like it was carved from a robot? This one’s gonna protect you from the front and back and it’ll keep all of your ports safe, too. It’s a great shell for the rough-and-tumble user and it just also happens to feature a built-in kickstand. Choose from blue, silver, and black. $17 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Spigen Rugged Armor Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

With a bad-ass carbon fiber design the all-black case looks mean and rugged. The military-grade certification tells us that it actually is. Still, it’s flexible enough to go on easily with buttons that respond nicely to the touch. It ain’t fancy, but it’s practical and affordable. $13 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Asmart Drop Protection Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

The dual layer design features a TPU rubberized inner case and a hard  PC outer shell. It goes on easy, but stays put and provides an anti-slip pattern that resembles what you’ll find on a football. Choose from a handful of colors to compliment your personality. $8 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”NageBee Snap-on Premium Wood & Fabric Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Your phone has five cameras, why not go with a case that has two different materials? This one combines both wood and fabric in a way that signals you’re much more sophisticated than most people expect. And, the price is low enough that you feel smarter than those haters, too. $7 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Otterbox Defender Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Don’t worry about drops and dings when you’ve got one of these on as it comes from one of the first names in phone protection. With multiple layers of security, there’s someone watching your back, and front. It’s rugged yet refined, modern, yet classic. Pick yours up in Black or Bespoke Way (dark blue). $60 at Otterbox

[vc_custom_heading text=”Moko Clear Case” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Transparent, but still reinforced for drops and bumps, this lets you show off that really cool design of the Pixel 3. The flexible and soft TPU rubber bumper edges and hard PC back work together to protect the phone from all angles. Cutouts give you full access to the speakers, cameras, and other ports. $9 at Amazon

[vc_custom_heading text=”Love Mei Powerful Series” font_container=”tag:h4|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Oswald%3A300%2Cregular%2C700|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”]

Available in black or silver, this one is an affordable way to make your phone strong enough to withstand the elements. We’re talking protection against shock, dust, scratches, and dirt. It might not be the most stylish thing ever but it ensures that investment stays tucked away like a cozy little baby — a baby that can take 6 foot drops and supports wireless charging. $25 at Amazon

Getting started with password managers

Gerson Noboa
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According to my password manager, I have 328 entries in it. That’s a lot of accounts to keep track of. What most people do is that they have the same password for almost all accounts. This means that, if one of those 300+ sites gets hacked and exposes personal information, hackers would have the access to all of your accounts.

However, unless you keep them on a notebook, it is impossible to remember so many passwords for so many different services. Even worse, there are some sites that ask you for some specific requirements (such as at least one capital letter or one number), which could mean that there are even more variables that you need to remember.

For this kind of situations, password managers were created.

What is a password manager?

It is simply a service that stores your passwords safely so you don’t have to remember all your different logins. There are several password managers out there, including:

  • LastPass
  • Dashlane
  • Bitwarden
  • 1Password
  • Enpass
  • Google Smart Lock

I won’t go into details, since an analysis of them merits its own article, but they all work in extremely similar ways. You store your logins there, or generate random passwords through them. When you need to use them, you can retrieve this information to be filled for you.

Once you have an account in one of them, all of your passwords can only be used once you input a master password. Most of them also add the possibility of two-factor authentication, making it even more secure.

Thus, you move from having to remember hundreds of passwords to only one, giving you the chance to use a very strong one and change it over time. There’s also the possibility to unlock the app with your fingerprint, adding even more security to it.

In case a site is hacked and your password is compromised, you have the peace of mind of having different passwords for all sites, so there’s no risk of losing additional data. All you need to do is generate a new one for the affected site. Password manager companies also employ full-time security experts that use advanced encrypting methods so that, in the case of a security breach, the information will be useless to hackers.

How to use a password manager?

My password manager of choice is the open-source Bitwarden. However, the idea is almost the same for every password manager out there. Password managers normally have the limitation of not allowing screenshots while they are on the foreground (frankly, a sensible decision), so I won’t be able to show screenshots for Bitwarden itself.

After creating an account, you should download the app to your phone. After logging in, you will have all of your passwords at your disposal. As previously said, you can configure password managers to be unlocked with your fingerprint. Some of them also let you generate a PIN code to unlock the vault.

In case you also use a desktop or laptop, most password managers have browser extensions. These let you autofill login information directly into the username and password fields on websites.

Now, let’s say you want to log into Twitter. First, you need to add the entry to the password manager. This includes saving the name of the service, the username and the password. There is also an option for saving a URL, so, if you visit https://www.twitter.com on your computer with the password manager extension installed, it will automatically suggest to autofill for you when trying to log in. Pretty neat!

Autofill service

A bunch of passwords stored in an app are worthless unless you have a way to use them. In Android versions before Oreo, the only way for a password manager to know in what apps you are and which fields to fill was turning on an accessibility service for the password manager app.

While it mostly worked, this was hacky, clunky, unreliable, and consumed battery life. With the introduction of Android Oreo, the system now lets password manager developers use the autofill service.

In order to activate it, head to the settings of your phone, then System (General Management in Samsung devices), then Language and input, and then Autofill service.

After activating this, you can go to the Twitter app, and you will get a nice prompt in which the app tries to infer in which app you are, and suggest you the best options for said app. In case it gets it wrong, you can also head to the app and look for an entry yourself.

Manual copy and paste

The autofill service introduced in Android Oreo only works on apps. For it to work on browsers, you need a device with Android Pie. If you want to log in to Twitter on your mobile browser without Pie, or you don’t want to turn on the accessibility/autofill services, then there’s always the old but reliable copy and paste. Just open your password manager, copy the password and then paste it into the appropriate password field.

Conclusion

In this day and age, where data breaches are increasingly common in an industry obsessed with account creation, password managers are a reliable way of having different passwords for the plethora of services we use everyday. Sure, it takes time to add passwords to the manager, and your workflow might change a little, but the minor inconveniences are worth it. Having the peace of mind that your accounts have unique passwords that do not compromise the credentials in other services gets you a little bit closer to having a secure digital life. Try one out today!

Samsung shows off its foldable smartphone with Infinity Flex Display

Alexandra Arici
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Samsung has been working on its foldable smartphone for years now, and today the tech giant finally showed off the fruits of its labor for the whole world to see.

The company’s senior vice president of mobile marketing, Justin Denison presented a prototype of the phone during a keynote at the Samsung Developer Conference.

Samsung ushers in a new era for mobile devices

The device is a 7.3-inch tablet when fully opened which becomes a phone when it’s closed. It uses a new foldable display technology that Samsung calls Infinity Flex Display.  The mobile device has a secondary display, which is situated on the outside and is accessible in folded mode.

The whole shenanigan is supported by Samsung’s new One UI experience which allows for seamless transitions from the smaller display to the larger display. One UI is Samsung’s new smartphone interface which features a clean minimal design and makes it even easier to use your phone in one-handed mode.

Denison also explained that up to three apps will be able to run simultaneously on the phone thanks to a new software feature called multi-active window. Two apps will be displayed inside when you open the phone, while the third one will run on the outside display.

When will be able to buy it?

While Denison briefly showed the device on stage, Samsung’s foldable smartphone is not yet ready for prime-time. The company says it will be able to start mass production of the displays in a few months.

So at this point we don’t really know when the consumer-ready device will land on the market.  But a finished device might show up at the CES expo in Las Vegas early next year.

Hopefully, it will be soon because this budding niche is bound to get competitive fast. Actually, the first foldable smartphone has already been launched by a little-known startup hailing from California. Called Royole, the company is already taking pre-orders for their FlexPai bendable smartphone.

On top of that, other big players in the mobile space like Huawei, Xiaomi and LG are working on their own flexible display prototypes too. So we expect 2019 to be quite a bendy year in terms of smartphones.

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