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Black Friday 2017: Here are four great TV deals you should check out

<p>The Black Friday 2017 shopping period is underway and as usual big screen televisions are among the hottest selling products you can get your hands on. Retailers will slash the prices of a number of TVs, sometimes by hundreds of dollars, in a move to get you to buy them.</p>
<p>In this article, we take a look at four such Black Friday 2017 TV deals that we think stand out from the rest. Also, be sure to swing by our <a href="http://ift.tt/2lZrk5Y">Black Friday 2017 round-up</a>, which we update on a regular basis and includes all sorts of deals we think are the better ones out there.</p>
<h2>LG OLED B7A 55-inch Ultra 4K TV for $1,499 ($100 off): <strong>Amazon</strong></h2>
<p><a href="http://tyvm.ly/ASAZQgQ"><img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-817178 size-large" height="530" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A2TuTc" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A2TuTc 840w, http://ift.tt/2Asum9d 300w, http://ift.tt/2A2Twui 768w, http://ift.tt/2AsHhI8 16w, http://ift.tt/2A2C4pZ 32w, http://ift.tt/2Asuo0P 28w, http://ift.tt/2A2Tx1k 56w, http://ift.tt/2At7EgX 64w, http://ift.tt/2A2Txym 1000w, http://ift.tt/2At7ENZ 1200w, http://ift.tt/2A2Ty5o 317w, http://ift.tt/2AsuqWv 1412w" width="840" /></a></p>
<p>If you want to get the best big-screen TVs you can buy, you can’t go wrong with the OLED models from LG. For Black Friday 2017, Amazon is selling the 55-inch <span id="productTitle" class="a-size-large">OLED55B7A 4K TV for $1,499, or $100 0ff its normal price. While that doesn’t seem to be a huge price cut, keep in mind that LG’s OLED TVs will not get any lower than this for Black Friday, so if you want the best, this is as low as you are going to get.</span></p>
<p>For that price, you will get a TV with a great <span class="a-list-item">OLED display for the absolute best in picture quality, along with High Dynamic Range (HDR) features. It’s also a smart TV, with apps that will allow you to access the major streaming services. It also comes with 4 HDMI ports. If you want to get an even bigger TV, Amazon is selling the 65-inch LG OLED television for $2,299, or $300 off its normal price.</span></p>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-amazon fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://tyvm.ly/ASAZQgQ" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #0077db;" target="_blank">Get it at Amazon</a></div>
<h2 class="type-subhead-alt-regular">Samsung 50-inch LED Smart 4K Ultra HD TV for $400 ($300 off): Best Buy</h2>
<p><a href="http://fave.co/2A7ZEz5"><img alt="" class="wp-image-817569 size-large aligncenter" height="494" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A2TyCq" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A2TyCq 840w, http://ift.tt/2AuG8jh 300w, http://ift.tt/2A2Tz9s 768w, http://ift.tt/2AsuuWf 16w, http://ift.tt/2A2TC58 32w, http://ift.tt/2AtMTBT 28w, http://ift.tt/2A2C759 56w, http://ift.tt/2AsM8Jo 64w, http://ift.tt/2A2C7Cb 1000w, http://ift.tt/2AtMVJZ 1200w, http://ift.tt/2A4G2OQ 340w" width="840" /></a></p>
<p>Samsung knows how to make great TVs as well as smartphones. This 50-inch model is perfect for the living room, main bedroom or man cave you might have, and Best Buy is currently selling it for just $399.99, or $300 off its normal price. The 4K TV just has two HDMI ports, but it does include a number of streaming media apps, and even its own web browser. It’s going to be hard to find 4K TVs this big for that small of a price during Black Friday</p>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-shopping-cart fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://fave.co/2A7ZEz5" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #0077db;" target="_blank">Get it at Best Buy</a> </div>
<h2>Samsung 65-inch Curved 4K UHD Smart TV  for $1,000 ($500 off) plus $50 gift card: Target</h2>
<p><a href="http://fave.co/2A5EmSM"><img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-817187 size-large" height="590" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2AtC2Yy" srcset="http://ift.tt/2AtC2Yy 840w, http://ift.tt/2A2C8Gf 300w, http://ift.tt/2At7GFB 768w, http://ift.tt/2A5bkVu 16w, http://ift.tt/2At1jlH 32w, http://ift.tt/2A4BHLq 28w, http://ift.tt/2AtCgyP 56w, http://ift.tt/2A5Yvut 64w, http://ift.tt/2Avv3hU 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A4tsPG 285w, http://ift.tt/2Au5ZrH 1043w" width="840" /></a></p>
<p>If you want to get a big screen curved TV to get a more immersive experience, Target is selling such a 4K TV from Samsung. The 65-inch model is on sale now for $999.99, or well below its normal $1,499.99 price tag. It includes a feature called Auto Depth Enhancer that is supposed to offer a more realistic image depth for watching TV shows and movies. It also includes Samsung’s Smart Hub platform that allows you to access a bunch of streaming services directly. Finally, this Black Friday deals includes a free $50 Target gift card.</p>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-shopping-cart fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://fave.co/2A5EmSM" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #0077db;" target="_blank">Get it at Target</a></div>
<h2>Visio SmartCast 5o-inch Ultra HD TV for $500 ($100 off) plus a $100 gift card: Dell</h2>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="http://fave.co/2jjzWzI"><img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-817571 size-full" height="615" sizes="(max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" src="http://ift.tt/2A1RYRb" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A1RYRb 1170w, http://ift.tt/2Avv7ya 300w, http://ift.tt/2A2Cblp 768w, http://ift.tt/2Avv9pM 840w, http://ift.tt/2A53UBE 16w, http://ift.tt/2Avv9WO 32w, http://ift.tt/2A3EmVH 28w, http://ift.tt/2AvvaKm 56w, http://ift.tt/2A2CbSr 64w, http://ift.tt/2Avvbho 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A3EnsJ 380w" width="1170" /></a></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Dell is usually a place where you buy PC desktops and laptop, but they also sell TV as well. During Black Friday, you can get this nice 50-inch 4K TV from Visio for $499.99, $100 off its normal price, plus Dell throws in a $100 gift card which can be used to get anything else the company sells. This particular big-screen TV includes Dolby Vision HDR support, and what Visio calls XHDR Plus, which is supposed to offer even better and more advanced HDR features for better  image quality. It also has 4 HDMI ports, support for launching streaming apps directly, and its mobile app allows smartphone owners to launch and stream even more apps, thanks to its support for Google’s Chromecast.</div>
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<div>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-amazon fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://fave.co/2jjzWzI" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #0077db;" target="_blank">Get it at Dell</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<p>As we said earlier, these are just some of the best Black Friday 2017 big screen TV deals you can get this week. For even more deals that are updated constantly, be sure to check out our <a href="http://ift.tt/2lZrk5Y">Black Friday round-up</a>, which contains all sorts of deals for the biggest shopping day of the year, including tons of additional TV deals for all price ranges.<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></p>
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Black Friday 2017: Here are four great TV deals you should check out

The Black Friday 2017 shopping period is underway and as usual big screen televisions are among the hottest selling products you can get you...

The world’s first smartphone-based micro-thermometer is here

<p><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-817559 aligncenter" height="519" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" src="http://ift.tt/2jTwaAN" srcset="http://ift.tt/2jTwaAN 780w, http://ift.tt/2i6qoeF 300w, http://ift.tt/2jVpz96 768w, http://ift.tt/2i1aja9 16w, http://ift.tt/2jTwe3v 32w, http://ift.tt/2i1QAHi 28w, http://ift.tt/2jTwfo5 56w, http://ift.tt/2i6qpPL 64w, http://ift.tt/2jTwhwd 301w" width="780" /> <em><span class="source_link_wrap"><a href="http://ift.tt/2i3axhb" rel="nofollow">via The Korea Herald</a></span></em></p>
<p>It’s not hard to find reports on how smartphones are bad for your health, if they’re not being accused of <a href="http://ift.tt/2jTwkrT" rel="noopener" target="_blank">contributing toward mental health issues</a>, they’re contributing to <a href="http://ift.tt/2i2eYZF" rel="noopener" target="_blank">fatalities in careless driving incidences</a>. Less common are stories on how they could be good for you, but a new report out of Korea has one piece good news on that score.</p>
<p>A South Korean tech company known as CrucialTec has reportedly developed the world’s first “micro-sized thermometer sensor module” for smartphones. This, according to <em>The Korea Herald</em>, is able to measure a person’s body temperature in just 0.5 seconds using a connected application.</p>
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<h4 class="ra-title">Black Friday 2017: Here are seven great smartphone deals you should check out</h4>
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<p>The module makes use of an integrated-microelectromechanical system, or i-MEMS, and is said to be able to measure the temperature of humans or objects (presumably animals too) between -40 and 200 degrees Celsius. Of course, the sensor is also implemented in such a way that the smartphone’s natural temperature doesn’t interfere with the measurements taken.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-817558 aligncenter" height="519" sizes="(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px" src="http://ift.tt/2i33LYC" srcset="http://ift.tt/2i33LYC 780w, http://ift.tt/2jW82h0 300w, http://ift.tt/2i2f3wr 768w, http://ift.tt/2jTwoI9 16w, http://ift.tt/2i2IRJe 32w, http://ift.tt/2jW88oS 28w, http://ift.tt/2i2f83d 56w, http://ift.tt/2jW8ax0 64w, http://ift.tt/2i2fabl 301w" width="780" /> <em><span class="source_link_wrap"><a href="http://ift.tt/2i3axhb" rel="nofollow">via The Korea Herald</a></span></em></p>
<p>What’s possibly most interesting, however, is that it’s based on a touchless technology — users don’t actually need to come into contact the sensor to measure their temperature. This could help lower the risk of infection and widen the number of possible applications (compared to more traditional thermometers).</p>
<p><em>The Korea Herald</em> report doesn’t mention when we might see such technology implemented into smartphones: this is only the first sensor of its kind and it may take some years before we start to see it in a commercial settings — if that ever even happens. But biometric monitoring has been an increasingly prevalent part of the smartphone and wearable industry in recent years, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it made its way to an upcoming flagship phone.</p>
<p>What are your thoughts on the potential of a smartphone-based thermometer? Let us know in the comments.</p>

The world’s first smartphone-based micro-thermometer is here

via The Korea Herald It’s not hard to find reports on how smartphones are bad for your health, if they’re not being accused of contributin...

HMD Global is now rolling out Android 8.0 Oreo for Nokia 8

<p><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-793862" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2zjn9o8" srcset="http://ift.tt/2z2EtfR 840w, http://ift.tt/2zjn9Va 300w, http://ift.tt/2z1zfkR 768w, http://ift.tt/2ziNjaf 16w, http://ift.tt/2z32VOa 32w, http://ift.tt/2zjnbwg 28w, http://ift.tt/2z1sSO8 56w, http://ift.tt/2zjncAk 64w, http://ift.tt/2z3p2El 712w, http://ift.tt/2ziNkej 1000w, http://ift.tt/2z3p3bn 1200w, http://ift.tt/2ziNkLl 792w, http://ift.tt/2z3p3Ip 770w, http://ift.tt/2zjndEo 356w, http://ift.tt/2z20GuL 1280w" width="840" /></p>
<p>HMD Global has announced the availability of Android 8.0 Oreo for the <a href="http://ift.tt/2iNw36q">Nokia 8</a>.</p>
<p>Nokia 8 delivers a pure version of Android 8.0 Oreo with no skin and without any pre-installed apps to keep its promise of a pure Android experience. All Nokia phones also get guaranteed monthly security updates.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>We’re proud to deliver our pure and secure take of Android 8.0 Oreo on the Nokia 8. We always want to give our fans the best possible Android experience. That’s why we’ve taken the time to test, optimize and refine the platform.</p>
<p>– Juho Sarvikas, Chief Product Officer, HMD Global</p>
</blockquote>
<p>According to Juho, the company has worked together with its customers under the <a href="http://ift.tt/2y45hAE">newly setup Nokia phones beta labs</a> to create an uncluttered Android experience.</p>
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<p>If you have a Nokia 8, your device will be updated automatically. You will receive a notification on your smartphone when it becomes available in your country.</p>
<p>The company has also shared that Android Oreo will be coming to other Nokia smartphones soon.</p>

HMD Global is now rolling out Android 8.0 Oreo for Nokia 8

HMD Global has announced the availability of Android 8.0 Oreo for the Nokia 8 . Nokia 8 delivers a pure version of Android 8.0 Oreo with n...

Samsung’s Chromebook Pro could top the Pixelbook by adding this missing feature

<p><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-748545" height="560" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2Bjacvx" srcset="http://ift.tt/2Bjacvx 840w, http://ift.tt/2zkRG4A 300w, http://ift.tt/2BjXVqw 768w, http://ift.tt/2zjTMl6 16w, http://ift.tt/2BjXZ9K 32w, http://ift.tt/2zizKaK 28w, http://ift.tt/2BjY39u 56w, http://ift.tt/2zizMiS 64w, http://ift.tt/2BjY4u4 1000w, http://ift.tt/2zizNmW 1200w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Over the years, Chromebooks have built a reputation for being affordable, streamlined alternatives to regular Windows-powered laptops. Recently, however, we’ve seen the rise of premium Chromebooks that pack top-tier hardware on top of the fuss-free <a href="http://ift.tt/2yDvguE">Chrome OS</a> experience.</p>
<p>The sheer existence of a high-end Chromebook has <a href="http://ift.tt/2yM3PDf">baffled some consumers</a>, especially following Google’s reveal of its $999 flagship hardware, the <a href="http://ift.tt/2yJwDZN">Pixelbook</a>. Meanwhile, Samsung debuted its beefed-up Chromebook range earlier this year with the launch of the <a href="http://ift.tt/2z26FUv">Chromebook Pro</a>.</p>
<p>On paper, Samsung’s 12.3-inch convertible laptop has everything. The lightweight metal Pro sports a stunning LED display with a 2400 x 1600 resolution, comes with an “S Pen” stylus, and is powered by an Intel Core M3 processor backed by 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage.</p>
<p>At time of writing, you can pick up the Plus <a href="http://fave.co/2A7DHQy" rel="noopener" target="_blank">on sale for $449</a> (originally $549), which is a nice saving on an already reasonably priced piece of kit. It’s also one of first of the new wave of Chromebooks that <a href="http://ift.tt/2zkRORC">support Android apps</a> which, after several months’ worth of teething issues, are finally starting to play nicely with Chrome OS.</p>
<p>The only downside? Samsung’s almost-perfect Chromebook Plus doesn’t have a backlit keyboard. This may sound like a minor omission, but if you’ve ever tried to write on a laptop in dim lighting conditions you’ll know how essential even a tiny bit of keyboard light can be.</p>
<p>Thankfully, it seems like Samsung has listened to customer feedback and will implement the feature in either a second run of the current Pro, or in a more powerful successor.</p>
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<p>There’s not much to go on at this stage, but the folks over at <em>Chrome Unboxed</em> found a reference to a keyboard backlight and lamp driver in relation to “Caroline”, which is reportedly the codename for an unspecified model of Samsung’s Chromebook Pro.</p>
<p>While we’ll have to wait for official word from Samsung, the prospect of a new Chromebook Pro should excite Chrome OS fans, especially after the original model was so well received.</p>
<p>Would you consider picking up an upgraded Chromebook Pro? Let us know in the comments.</p>

Samsung’s Chromebook Pro could top the Pixelbook by adding this missing feature

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Black Friday: CB3 Audio earbuds and speakers get some sweet discounts

<p><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-816918" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2hNeP8p" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A51LFV 840w, http://ift.tt/2hOem5V 300w, http://ift.tt/2A3Sfmh 768w, http://ift.tt/2hNeQct 16w, http://ift.tt/2A51Pp9 32w, http://ift.tt/2hNeRgx 28w, http://ift.tt/2A3ShKV 56w, http://ift.tt/2hOeqmb 64w, http://ift.tt/2A51VNx 712w, http://ift.tt/2hOev9t 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A5203N 1200w, http://ift.tt/2hQa6TD 792w, http://ift.tt/2AsVIvW 1280w, http://ift.tt/2hN3V2x 1340w, http://ift.tt/2A521Vp 770w, http://ift.tt/2A3wWSj 355w, http://ift.tt/2A3SmOJ 1500w" width="840" /></p>
<p>CB3 Audio sells affordable, well-made products for folks that don’t want to spend a ton to enjoy good sound quality. Just in time for <a href="http://ift.tt/2lZrk5Y">Black Friday</a>, the company is making its products even more attractive, with a $10 coupon code that shaves a good chunk off their regular price tags.</p>
<p><em>The promo is valid on Amazon.com only. In order to get the discount, you must enter the coupon code OB6KDGFO at checkout!</em></p>
<hr />
<p>Multiple CB3 Audio products are on sale right now, but the headline are probably the <strong>CB3 Nomad Bluetooth</strong> earbuds. Normally going for $25, the metal-built Nomads can be yours for $15 (a 40 percent discount) if you apply the coupon code “<strong>OB6KDGFO</strong>” at checkout.</p>
<p><a href="http://tyvm.ly/ENfKA"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-817000 aligncenter" height="500" sizes="(max-width: 372px) 100vw, 372px" src="http://ift.tt/2hOBDEV" srcset="http://ift.tt/2hOBDEV 372w, http://ift.tt/2A3SnlL 300w, http://ift.tt/2hOo2gD 12w, http://ift.tt/2Aryl5P 24w, http://ift.tt/2A3wZNZ 21w, http://ift.tt/2A3SoWR 42w, http://ift.tt/2hOTbkf 48w, http://ift.tt/2Aryoi1 120w, http://ift.tt/2A56w2G 149w" width="372" /></a></p>
<p>These sturdy earbuds feature magnetic tips, so you can easily clasp them around your neck when you’re not using them, which also turns them off. Battery life is said to be good for seven hours of continuous listening.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Get the <a href="http://tyvm.ly/ENfKA">CB3 Nomad Bluetooth earbuds for $14.99</a> with coupon code OB6KDGFO</strong></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>Next up we have a couple of well-reviewed Bluetooth speakers that you can buy for $10 off using the same code. They are both backed by a one-year full warranty policy.</p>
<p>The <strong>CB3 Ultra Slim</strong> is great for those who want a compact and lightweight speaker that they can just throw in a bag without worrying about dents, thanks to its aluminum construction. Its 12-watt speakers give out loud and high-def sound for up to eight hours.</p>
<p><a href="http://tyvm.ly/al0w7t"><img alt="" class="wp-image-816930 aligncenter" height="219" sizes="(max-width: 461px) 100vw, 461px" src="http://ift.tt/2A3Ss93" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A3Ss93 840w, http://ift.tt/2hPCjtO 300w, http://ift.tt/2A3Su0F 768w, http://ift.tt/2hN3Vj3 16w, http://ift.tt/2A3SuOd 32w, http://ift.tt/2hOeCSr 28w, http://ift.tt/2AtA6iZ 56w, http://ift.tt/2hOLYjW 64w, http://ift.tt/2A52aIr 1000w, http://ift.tt/2hOeDpt 421w, http://ift.tt/2A3Swpj 1024w" width="461" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Get the <a href="http://tyvm.ly/al0w7t">CB3 Ultra Slim Bluetooth speaker for $19.99</a> with coupon code OB6KDGFO</strong></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>If you want something bigger and sturdier, check out the <strong>CB3 Armor XL speaker</strong>, which is waterproof and built to face the elements. It also gets much louder, thanks to the 30-watt speaker setup inside.</p>
<p><a href="http://tyvm.ly/kZ7Hu"><img alt="" class="wp-image-816932 aligncenter" height="455" sizes="(max-width: 554px) 100vw, 554px" src="http://ift.tt/2AtAa2d" srcset="http://ift.tt/2AtAa2d 840w, http://ift.tt/2A3Sxtn 300w, http://ift.tt/2hOeEtx 768w, http://ift.tt/2AryxC5 16w, http://ift.tt/2A3xdoj 32w, http://ift.tt/2AtAfTz 28w, http://ift.tt/2A56GqO 56w, http://ift.tt/2hOeG4D 64w, http://ift.tt/2A3SA8x 1000w, http://ift.tt/2hOeH8H 1200w, http://ift.tt/2A52h6P 244w, http://ift.tt/2jVia9Q 1500w" width="554" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Get the <a href="http://tyvm.ly/kZ7Hu">CB3 Armor XL waterproof Bluetooth speaker for $39.99</a> with coupon code OB6KDGFO</strong></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>Finally, here are three other earbuds that you may want to check out. They are all functional and stylish, with solid reviews and solid features. All of them are backed by generous “Costco-like” return and warranty policies.</p>
<p>The <strong>CB3 Stealth</strong> wireless earbuds are discreet and attractive, sweat and water-resistant, and good for up to 7 hours of continuous use.</p>
<p><a href="http://tyvm.ly/OEABqm"><img alt="" class="wp-image-816942 aligncenter" height="468" sizes="(max-width: 383px) 100vw, 383px" src="http://ift.tt/2i2wUDq" srcset="http://ift.tt/2i2wUDq 840w, http://ift.tt/2A3xjfF 300w, http://ift.tt/2AryDtr 768w, http://ift.tt/2hOeLoX 13w, http://ift.tt/2AryG8B 26w, http://ift.tt/2hOsqwe 23w, http://ift.tt/2A52ln5 46w, http://ift.tt/2hMsH2S 52w, http://ift.tt/2A52mr9 1000w, http://ift.tt/2i2SfML 1200w, http://ift.tt/2jXlSQp 164w, http://ift.tt/2hZUbpl 1228w" width="383" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Get the <a href="http://tyvm.ly/OEABqm">CB3 Stealth Bluetooth earbuds for $19.99</a> with coupon code OB6KDGFO</strong></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>Gym rats, this one’s for you. The <strong>CB3 Fit</strong> are sweat proof, feature a sturdy build, and fit comfortably and snugly into your ear. Rich sound help you stay focused on the workout.</p>
<p><a href="http://tyvm.ly/zcFth"><img alt="" class="wp-image-816944 aligncenter" height="508" sizes="(max-width: 316px) 100vw, 316px" src="http://ift.tt/2A1S9f4" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A1S9f4 591w, http://ift.tt/2hQpvTS 300w, http://ift.tt/2A2xZ4E 10w, http://ift.tt/2hOePFd 20w, http://ift.tt/2A2lupM 17w, http://ift.tt/2hQC0Pg 35w, http://ift.tt/2zx0to1 40w, http://ift.tt/2AtAsGl 124w" width="316" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><strong>Get the <a href="http://tyvm.ly/zcFth">CB3 Fit sport Bluetooth earbuds for $29.99</a> with coupon code OB6KDGFO</strong></strong></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>Finally, not everyone likes Bluetooth. For a steady connection and no worries about battery life, check out the premium-built <strong>CB3 Metal</strong> buds.</p>
<p><a href="http://tyvm.ly/5umD"><img alt="" class="wp-image-816945 aligncenter" height="326" sizes="(max-width: 396px) 100vw, 396px" src="http://ift.tt/2zy6O2G" srcset="http://ift.tt/2zy6O2G 500w, http://ift.tt/2AtAvlv 300w, http://ift.tt/2jXlX6F 16w, http://ift.tt/2i0BgL0 32w, http://ift.tt/2mVBggY 28w, http://ift.tt/2zx0BE1 56w, http://ift.tt/2jXlZeN 64w, http://ift.tt/2i1kP12 243w" width="396" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Get the <a href="http://tyvm.ly/5umD">CB3 Metal wired earbuds for $9.99</a> with coupon code OB6KDGFO</strong></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>Happy shopping and stay tuned for <a href="http://ift.tt/2lZrk5Y">more Black Friday deals</a>!</p>
<div class="the-content padded-panel">
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<p><i>Disclosure: E-Commerce Content is independent of editorial content. We may receive compensation in connection with your purchase of products via links on this page. This post may contain affiliate links. See our <a href="http://ift.tt/2yoNdjt">disclosure policy</a> for more details.</i></p>
</div>
</div>

Black Friday: CB3 Audio earbuds and speakers get some sweet discounts

CB3 Audio sells affordable, well-made products for folks that don’t want to spend a ton to enjoy good sound quality. Just in time for Black...

Need Pixel 2 headphones? Check out this 50% off Black Friday deal on Jabra’s Move Wireless cans

<p><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-817503" height="484" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2zyVkMk" srcset="http://ift.tt/2zyVkMk 840w, http://ift.tt/2mZCIPo 300w, http://ift.tt/2hOnibl 768w, http://ift.tt/2mY8koB 16w, http://ift.tt/2hOAhdj 32w, http://ift.tt/2A50L4D 28w, http://ift.tt/2hOOO8F 56w, http://ift.tt/2A3o131 64w, http://ift.tt/2hPDeue 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A2vTSa 1200w, http://ift.tt/2hNp2Sf 347w" width="840" /></p>
<p>As more and more phone manufacturers follow the industry trend of <a href="http://ift.tt/2gjxYlp">ditching the 3.5mm jack</a>, the demand for Bluetooth headphones will continue to grow (unless you <em>really</em> like dongles).</p>
<p>If you’ve recently picked up a <a href="http://ift.tt/2xBg7O6">Google Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL</a> for example, you might be looking for an affordable set of cans with solid audio quality. If that’s the case then you might want to check out these Jabra headphones that are currently on offer for Black Friday.</p>
<p>For a limited time, you can grab Jabra’s Move Wireless on-ear Bluetooth headphones for $49, which is half the usual $99 asking price. The offer is currently live at <em>Amazon</em>, <em>Walmart</em>, and several other outlets, so you should get lucky even some retailers have sold out.</p>
<p><strong>Read: <a href="http://ift.tt/2zauTf2">Best Wireless Bluetooth Headphones</a></strong></p>
<p>As for the headphones themselves, you’ll be getting an “ultra-lightweight” pair with a stainless steel headband and synthetic leather ear cups. Jabra says the battery life will last you eight hours of talk time or an impressive twelve days of standby charge. The audio quality is powered by 40mm drivers and music playback and call controls are also included.</p>
<p>You can grab the Jabra Move Wireless headphones via the buttons below. With Black Friday officially upon us, be sure to keep a tab open on our deals round-up page <a href="http://ift.tt/2lZrk5Y">here</a>.</p>
<p>Will you be picking up a pair of Bluetooth headphones during the sale season? Let us know if you’ve seen any great deals in the comments.</p>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-amazon fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://tyvm.ly/2YSWJHj" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #ff8800;" target="_blank">Buy Now: Jabra Move Wireless headphones at Amazon</a></div>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-shopping-cart fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://fave.co/2jjIHJQ" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #ff8800;" target="_blank">Buy Now: Jabra Move Wireless headphones at Walmart</a></div>
<div>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-shopping-cart fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://fave.co/2A6tkg3" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #ff8800;" target="_blank">Buy Now: Jabra Move Wireless headphones at B&H</a></div>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-shopping-cart fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://fave.co/2jiYjNL" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #ff8800;" target="_blank">Buy Now: Jabra Move Wireless headphones at Newegg</a></div>
</div>

Need Pixel 2 headphones? Check out this 50% off Black Friday deal on Jabra’s Move Wireless cans

As more and more phone manufacturers follow the industry trend of ditching the 3.5mm jack , the demand for Bluetooth headphones will contin...

Your guide to Android One

<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-811789" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A7n1J6" srcset="http://ift.tt/2jjSwYg 840w, http://ift.tt/2A7OvOK 300w, http://ift.tt/2jktFnn 768w, http://ift.tt/2A7n2wE 16w, http://ift.tt/2jktIzz 32w, http://ift.tt/2A7n5bO 28w, http://ift.tt/2jjSAY0 56w, http://ift.tt/2A6qnvZ 64w, http://ift.tt/2jktKaF 712w, http://ift.tt/2A7mZks 1000w, http://ift.tt/2jjjWOc 1200w, http://ift.tt/2A8lZwe 792w, http://ift.tt/2jiHPFq 1280w, http://ift.tt/2A9hD8o 1340w, http://ift.tt/2jjSJuw 770w, http://ift.tt/2A6YkMF 356w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Introduced to India back in 2014, Android One was an initiative meant to bring unity to a virtual wild west of low-end Android phones. Low-end phones in developing markets enjoyed little to no hardware or software quality control whatsoever and Google wanted that to change.</p>
<p>In recent months Android One has enjoyed a bit of a renaissance with its arrival in the American market. Now that it is becoming more ubiquitous, we thought it was time to break down what Android One is, where it is, and why it’s cool.</p>
<h2>What is Android One?</h2>
<p>First, it’s important to establish what Android One isn’t. Android One is not a device program, like the Nexus or the Pixel. It is not an Android experience either. Rather, it’s a combination of the two. Google decided to work with OEMs in developing nations to put together phones with a basic but reliable spec sheet, and a build of Android that would run well on those specs.</p>
<p>It’s meant to be a blueprint for how an OEM could build a $100 Android smartphone that wouldn’t suck. The software is a stock Android experience with no frills or extra add-ons. Since then, the program has evolved to higher, but still modest price points. It is now basically an inexpensive Nexus or baby-Pixel program. Unlike those programs, Google isn’t involved in the manufacturing process, but it does maintain the software. Google guarantees your phone will handle the current operating system and security updates. More on that later.</p>
<h2>Who is Android One for?</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-800167" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2l2PCLN" srcset="http://ift.tt/2xTq35T 840w, http://ift.tt/2l1LITf 300w, http://ift.tt/2xSTGnD 768w, http://ift.tt/2l1LJqh 16w, http://ift.tt/2xSTGUF 32w, http://ift.tt/2l0lQHo 28w, http://ift.tt/2xTq4qt 56w, http://ift.tt/2l1BbaC 64w, http://ift.tt/2xTq4Xv 712w, http://ift.tt/2l4oXOI 1000w, http://ift.tt/2xTq61z 1200w, http://ift.tt/2l1LKul 792w, http://ift.tt/2xSTJzP 1280w, http://ift.tt/2l2Pgod 1340w, http://ift.tt/2xTq75D 770w, http://ift.tt/2l0nrgg 355w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Android One has a few goals. First and foremost is to rein in the fragmentation that Android is known for. The reality is that <a href="http://ift.tt/2eSFFe2" rel="noopener" target="_blank">more than half of the Android devices</a> in the world are still running Android 5.x or lower. Just under 1% are still running Gingerbread of all things. Simply put, that’s ridiculous. It’s a disservice to the platform and it’s especially a disservice to the users. No one should have to run an operating system that old. It’s not in Google’s best interest to perpetuate that circumstance.</p>
<p>Android One is designed with not only the user, but the platform itself in mind. By ensuring that low-cost phones will be made in such a way as to handle at least 18 months of updates, Google is helping to consolidate the platform. It gives Tim Cook one less bullet point in his Powerpoint presentation every June.</p>
<p>Plus, by ensuring that even low-budget users get the latest updates, Google is turning Android into a better brand on the whole. In some areas, a smartphone is the only computing device families can afford. The Android One brand will soon become synonymous with future proofing. When you think about it, getting a low-cost phone you know will have Android P or Q on it isn’t such a bad idea.</p>
<h2>What Android One phones can I get?</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-811787" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A8pB13" srcset="http://ift.tt/2xO9012 840w, http://ift.tt/2A8ptys 300w, http://ift.tt/2xObo7W 768w, http://ift.tt/2A8pu5u 16w, http://ift.tt/2xO9ggw 32w, http://ift.tt/2A8pOkI 28w, http://ift.tt/2xO92Gc 56w, http://ift.tt/2A82pA7 64w, http://ift.tt/2xO93Kg 712w, http://ift.tt/2A8pv9y 1000w, http://ift.tt/2xN9mFb 1200w, http://ift.tt/2A8aHIe 792w, http://ift.tt/2xMZU4t 1280w, http://ift.tt/2A7Uz9B 1340w, http://ift.tt/2xO94Ok 770w, http://ift.tt/2A8pwKE 356w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Android One started its life with a relatively slow rollout to places like India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other parts of South Asia. Nigeria followed, along with other parts of Africa and the Middle East. Soon, we started to see more developed nations adopting the program with Japan and the Netherlands jumping on board. Most recently, Android One came to the U.S.</p>
<p>There are a number of devices enrolled in the Android One program. The current list, which can be found on <a href="http://ift.tt/1E3zLJK" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Android One’s website</a>, includes the Xiaomi Mi A1, Moto X4, the X1, GM6, S2, S1, GM 5, and the GM 5 Plus. HTC’s recently announced U11 Life will also participate in the program. Let’s talk about those phones.</p>
<h3>Moto X4</h3>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-808786" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2jl0zV0" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A89FfD 840w, http://ift.tt/2jiIerq 300w, http://ift.tt/2A89FMF 768w, http://ift.tt/2jl0C38 16w, http://ift.tt/2A89HnL 32w, http://ift.tt/2jl0CAa 28w, http://ift.tt/2A89HUN 56w, http://ift.tt/2jl0DEe 64w, http://ift.tt/2A7wWOP 712w, http://ift.tt/2jl0ErM 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A89IYR 1200w, http://ift.tt/2jl0G2S 792w, http://ift.tt/2A89JMp 1280w, http://ift.tt/2jl0H6W 1340w, http://ift.tt/2A7oyyE 770w, http://ift.tt/2jl0Jf4 356w" width="840" /></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Snapdragon 630</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">64 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">256 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">4 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.2″ LCD</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Dual 12MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The <a href="http://ift.tt/2gQhxds">Moto X4</a> was the first Android One offering in the US. At around $400, it’s also one of Google’s least expensive Project Fi capable phones, which is not insignificant. It sports a variety of midrange offerings, which reflects its midrange price. The phone is smooth and performs well with its 4 GB of RAM on board.</p>
<p>The phone also sports a dual camera, headphone jack, IP68 water resistance, and is made of a sturdy glass and metal build. The 3,000 mAh battery is good for a full day of casual use. However, the camera is underwhelming and a bit slow and low-light shots are unimpressive. All the same, this is an inexpensive Project-Fi capable phone available in the US. Hard to argue with that.</p>
<h3>HTC U11 Life</h3>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-814415" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2iUQ626" srcset="http://ift.tt/2zIKcJx 840w, http://ift.tt/2iV0NBS 300w, http://ift.tt/2zIKeRF 768w, http://ift.tt/2iV0Ptu 16w, http://ift.tt/2zJnqkU 32w, http://ift.tt/2iUQduy 28w, http://ift.tt/2zJnscw 56w, http://ift.tt/2iV0U0g 64w, http://ift.tt/2zJnvoI 712w, http://ift.tt/2iUQg9I 1000w, http://ift.tt/2zJZ0aA 792w, http://ift.tt/2iUQiym 770w, http://ift.tt/2zJnAc0 355w, http://ift.tt/2iUQk9s 1080w" width="840" /></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;"> Snapdragon 630</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">64 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">256 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">4GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.2″ LCD</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">16MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The global version of the <a href="http://ift.tt/2hyhin6">HTC U11 Life</a> is a beautiful phone, bringing HTC’s Liquid Surface design to the midrange. The back is made of acrylic, rather than the glass of high-end phones, but it’s still a bit of a fingerprint magnet. The Phone carries an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, and has some respectable midrange specs.</p>
<p>The U11 Life doesn’t heave stereo speakers or a headphone jack, but HTC includes USonic active noise cancelling earphones in the box. The Android One version of the U11 Life still has <a href="http://ift.tt/2yBzc2v" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Edge Sense</a>, which means you can squeeze the phone to activate various features, and HTC’s USonic tuning, which adapts the headphone audio to your particular hearing profile.</p>
<h3>Xiaomi Mi A1</h3>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-798830" height="472" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A7OASy" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A7OASy 840w, http://ift.tt/2jl0QHw 300w, http://ift.tt/2A8KGZH 768w, http://ift.tt/2jiIqXG 16w, http://ift.tt/2A8Pm1A 32w, http://ift.tt/2jl0UqK 28w, http://ift.tt/2A9yKaa 56w, http://ift.tt/2jl0Y9Y 64w, http://ift.tt/2A78NI4 712w, http://ift.tt/2jiItmk 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A78Pja 1200w, http://ift.tt/2jl0Ze2 792w, http://ift.tt/2A78Qne 1280w, http://ift.tt/2jiIvdW 1340w, http://ift.tt/2A78Rri 770w, http://ift.tt/2jl10yC 356w" width="840" /></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Snapdragon 625</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">64 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">128 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">4 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.5″ LCD</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Dual 12 MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The <a href="http://ift.tt/2yHWOQB">Xiaomi Mi A1</a> is featured prominently on Android One’s web page. The Mi A1 is significant because Xiaomi is casting aside its signature MIUI for this device. At last you can have sweet Xiaomi hardware running Google’s sweet software. The Mi A1 features a nice selection of mid-range specifications, and in our review, wondered if it wasn’t the perfect budget smartphone.</p>
<p>The Mi A1 is available throughout India, and is due to be available in <a href="http://ift.tt/2yyC5ie" rel="noopener" target="_blank">more than 40 other markets soon</a>. The Mi A1 features a dual camera setup that unfortunately struggles in low-light, but otherwise performs well. The phone is snappy and performs everyday tasks well. 64 GB of internal storage will store a ton of apps, games, and media as well.</p>
<h3>General Mobile</h3>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-817230" height="449" sizes="(max-width: 499px) 100vw, 499px" src="http://ift.tt/2A7OCKa" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A7OCKa 733w, http://ift.tt/2jiIxm4 300w, http://ift.tt/2A78TiU 16w, http://ift.tt/2jl12Xg 32w, http://ift.tt/2A7ODOe 28w, http://ift.tt/2jiIyGE 56w, http://ift.tt/2A7OESi 64w, http://ift.tt/2jl14ym 68w, http://ift.tt/2A78UU0 222w" width="499" /></p>
<p><strong>GM6</strong></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">MT6737T</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">32 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">128 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">3 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.0″</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">13 MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>GM5</strong></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Qualcomm 1.2 GHz Quad core</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;"> 16 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Y</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">2 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.0″</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">13 MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>GM5 Plus</strong></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Snapdragon 617</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">32 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Y</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">3 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.5″</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">13 MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>General Mobile has a trio of smartphones available in the Android One program. The GM5 and GM5 Plus are generally available in Turkey, with the GM6 also hitting the Netherlands and Italy (22 markets overall). The three phones are all very similar and very comfortably in the mid-range category. Any of these phones would be acceptable, even in western nations, as solid mid-range offerings.</p>
<p>The GM6 was the first Android One smartphone to carry a fingerprint sensor and has a rubberized coating on the backplate making it durable and very grippy. It runs smoothly with its MediaTek processor and 3 GB of RAM.</p>
<h2>Japan-only phones</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-817231" height="338" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2jktLeJ" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A78WeA 840w, http://ift.tt/2jiWwIx 300w, http://ift.tt/2A7OGto 768w, http://ift.tt/2jl15SW 16w, http://ift.tt/2A78WLC 32w, http://ift.tt/2jjSNdK 28w, http://ift.tt/2A7OHxs 56w, http://ift.tt/2jiVDQe 64w, http://ift.tt/2A78XPG 497w" width="840" /></p>
<p><strong>Sharp S1</strong></p>
<table style="height: 61px;" width="849">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 134px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 133px; text-align: center;"> MSM 8937</td>
<td style="width: 134px; text-align: center;">16 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">256 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">2 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.0″</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">13 MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Kyocera S2</strong></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;"> MSM 8917</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">16 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">256 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">2 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.0″</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">13 MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Sharp X1</strong></p>
<table style="height: 60px;" width="853">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Processor</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Storage</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">Expandable?</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">RAM</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Display</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">Camera</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">MSM 8940</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">32 GB</td>
<td style="width: 135px; text-align: center;">256 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">3 GB</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">5.3″ LCD</td>
<td style="width: 136px; text-align: center;">16 MP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Japan also has a trio of Android One phones available, again all very similar. Sharp and Kyocera both participate in the Android One program. The Sharp X1 boasts a battery that can last up to four days. The S1 and S2 both sport a water resistant design.</p>
<p>The Sharp X1’s battery pack is a very respectable 3,900 mAh, which isn’t the biggest on the market, but it’s huge for a 5.3-inch phone.</p>
<h2>What’s in it for me?</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-752297" height="472" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2jkrBvJ" srcset="http://ift.tt/2jkrBvJ 840w, http://ift.tt/2A7OJ8y 300w, http://ift.tt/2jmlfeW 768w, http://ift.tt/2A7OJFA 16w, http://ift.tt/2jjwWmF 32w, http://ift.tt/2A7OLgG 28w, http://ift.tt/2jkPfIl 56w, http://ift.tt/2A78ZqM 64w, http://ift.tt/2jif9fC 712w, http://ift.tt/2A790uQ 1000w, http://ift.tt/2jkPhzX 792w, http://ift.tt/2A791yU 770w, http://ift.tt/2jiJOtn 356w, http://ift.tt/2A792CY 1080w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Your Android One phone will be all Google all the time with apps like Maps, Gmail, and Duo, without the bloat found on other phones. Android One phones also come stocked with Google Assistant. Unlike the Pixel 2 though, Android One brings you all this for much less than the cheapest Pixel 2’s $650 price tag.</p>
<p>Google has also pledged that these devices will see at least eighteen months of updates. As many of us know, updates to Android phones can be hard to come by. Google even started <a href="http://ift.tt/2jiSakM">calling out OEMs who weren’t getting updates out</a>. With Android One, major updates like the transition from Oreo to P (whatever it will be named) is a guarantee, as is Android Q hypothetically. That is very significant.</p>
<p>Android One also promises fast security updates and support for Play Protect, which is basically Google’s antivirus software running on the phone. Play Protect is designed to help defend against the spate of malicious attacks on Android phones we have seen recently. All told, what Android One brings you is a stock Android experience that will remain current for two years, and safe to use for three years. In the world of Android, that’s one hell of a guarantee.</p>
<h2>Android One is the future</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-811789" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A7n1J6" srcset="http://ift.tt/2jjSwYg 840w, http://ift.tt/2A7OvOK 300w, http://ift.tt/2jktFnn 768w, http://ift.tt/2A7n2wE 16w, http://ift.tt/2jktIzz 32w, http://ift.tt/2A7n5bO 28w, http://ift.tt/2jjSAY0 56w, http://ift.tt/2A6qnvZ 64w, http://ift.tt/2jktKaF 712w, http://ift.tt/2A7mZks 1000w, http://ift.tt/2jjjWOc 1200w, http://ift.tt/2A8lZwe 792w, http://ift.tt/2jiHPFq 1280w, http://ift.tt/2A9hD8o 1340w, http://ift.tt/2jjSJuw 770w, http://ift.tt/2A6YkMF 356w" width="840" /></p>
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<div class="related_article_item"><a class="overlay-link" href="http://ift.tt/2zE57PO" title="Graduating class: Nexus – Pixel – Android One – Android Go"></a>
<div class="ra-image" style="background-image: url(http://ift.tt/2zUfRuu)"><img alt="related article" class="hidden" src="http://ift.tt/2zUfRuu" /></div>
<h4 class="ra-title">Graduating class: Nexus – Pixel – Android One – Android Go</h4>
<div class="ra-excerpt">When Google abandoned the Nexus program a lot of its die-hard fans wanted to know why. Even when the Pixel series first emerged, many of us were still scratching our heads. Now, with the 20/20 …</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
The Android One program is a way for Google to ensure mid-range phones will run Android smoothly for a long time. This is a breath of fresh air compared to the fragmented situation we were in earlier. Users can now be guaranteed years of updates, security patches, and peace of mind. There is a certain amount of comfort in knowing a device will continue to run properly for some time – something Google is clearly hoping to cash in on.
<p>But Android One is also good for Google. It allows the software maker to help consolidate its platform and get an uncluttered version of Android on even more phones. Future security is key both from a user standpoint and in maintaining a healthy software platform. Android One is a great step in that direction.</p>

Your guide to Android One

Introduced to India back in 2014, Android One was an initiative meant to bring unity to a virtual wild west of low-end Android phones. Low-...

Huawei Mate 10 Pro scores record-breaking pre-orders in Europe

<p><img alt="" class="size-large wp-image-811484 aligncenter" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2i2NanD" srcset="http://ift.tt/2jVJTqI 840w, http://ift.tt/2i1wInT 300w, http://ift.tt/2jYML6A 768w, http://ift.tt/2i2E7mC 16w, http://ift.tt/2jX8iMB 32w, http://ift.tt/2i2ovje 28w, http://ift.tt/2jRLqy6 56w, http://ift.tt/2hZOCar 64w, http://ift.tt/2jUSslY 712w, http://ift.tt/2i2rUyE 1000w, http://ift.tt/2jYilBr 792w, http://ift.tt/2i2sV9Q 770w, http://ift.tt/2jX8jjD 355w, http://ift.tt/2i2e5QH 1080w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Huawei unveiled its <a href="http://ift.tt/2ynr2dO" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Mate 10 Pro</a> in Germany on October 16 alongside the standard Huawei Mate 10. The latest devices in Huawei’s “Mate” range of phablets, these had the difficult task of going on sale during a period which would also see the launch of the highly anticipated <a href="http://ift.tt/2gxaJRF" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Samsung Galaxy Note 8</a> and <a href="http://ift.tt/2zp1Y34" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Apple iPhone X</a> from the company’s main competitors.</p>
<p>Despite the challenging circumstances, Huawei has revealed that the Mate 10 Pro has become its fastest-selling smartphone in Western Europe. In a statement, Huawei said that the device surpassed “all previous” company records for pre-orders in Western Europe, and that it also “exceeded internal sales targets for pre-order by over 100%.” Huawei didn’t reveal exactly how many device pre-orders were taken, however.</p>
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<h4 class="ra-title">Huawei Mate 10 Pro launches in the UK, Vodafone giving free Watch 2 to first 1,000 buyers</h4>
<div class="ra-excerpt">Today marks the official launch of the Huawei Mate 10 Pro in the UK. Buyers can pick one up from Carphone Warehouse, Three, or Vodafone, but if you’re planning on grabbing one from the latter …</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>The Mate 10 Pro boasts a bezel-less, 18:9 display, Hisilicon Kirin 970 and an outstanding camera. It’s also water-resistant, unlike the Mate 10 standard, but is also a little more expensive at €799 (~$950) compared to €699 (~$830). You can read more about the differences between these two in our <a href="http://ift.tt/2ynr2dO" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Huawei Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro review</a>; we said that, despite some caveats, they are “incredible” smartphones.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Huawei isn’t the only company announcing record-breaking sales this week — the <a href="http://ift.tt/2hvYcOq" rel="noopener" target="_blank">OnePlus 5T</a> was revealed as the <a href="http://ift.tt/2B2CARD" rel="noopener" target="_blank">fastest-selling OnePlus smartphone</a> only a couple of days ago.</p>
<p>Does Huawei have what it takes to achieve its goal of becoming the number one smartphone vendor by 2022? Give us your thoughts in the comments.</p>

Huawei Mate 10 Pro scores record-breaking pre-orders in Europe

Huawei unveiled its Mate 10 Pro in Germany on October 16 alongside the standard Huawei Mate 10. The latest devices in Huawei’s “Mate” ran...

OnePlus 5T update improves fingerprint/face unlock, video image stabilization and more

<p><img alt="" class="size-large wp-image-816097 aligncenter" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A7UWS4" srcset="http://ift.tt/2jkCygv 840w, http://ift.tt/2A6ieHJ 300w, http://ift.tt/2jkCyNx 768w, http://ift.tt/2A8GadA 16w, http://ift.tt/2jklo2N 32w, http://ift.tt/2A7ZlUV 28w, http://ift.tt/2jklozP 56w, http://ift.tt/2A6igPR 64w, http://ift.tt/2jklpUp 712w, http://ift.tt/2A6ihTV 1000w, http://ift.tt/2jkCzRB 1200w, http://ift.tt/2A7fPfS 792w, http://ift.tt/2jkCAoD 1280w, http://ift.tt/2A6iiXZ 1340w, http://ift.tt/2jklqHX 770w, http://ift.tt/2A7d7qW 355w" width="840" /></p>
<p>The <a href="http://ift.tt/2hvYcOq" rel="noopener" target="_blank">OnePlus 5T</a> is here and has so far been a success for OnePlus. It’s the company’s <a href="http://ift.tt/2B2CARD" rel="noopener" target="_blank">fastest-selling smartphone ever</a> and reviews have been generally very positive. And it should only get better with time: OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei has already said that an upcoming update will <a href="http://ift.tt/2B6RMNy" rel="noopener" target="_blank">improve its camera capabilities</a>, but many other feature updates are also likely to appear in the coming weeks and months.</p>
<p>The first of these has just arrived, only a couple of days after the smartphone’s global release. <em>Android Police</em> spotted the ~107 MB update, which brings devices up to OxygenOS version 4.7.2, and includes improvements to fingerprint and face unlock (their accuracy, speed, or something else, we don’t know), as well as better electronic image stabilization during 4K video recording. The 5T should be secured against that nasty <a href="http://ift.tt/2ys9Kf6" rel="noopener" target="_blank">KRACK vulnerability</a> following the update too.</p>
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<h4 class="ra-title">OnePlus 3/3T and 5/5T will get Android 8.1 Oreo but no Project Treble</h4>
<div class="ra-excerpt">It's been a big week for OnePlus. Not only did it push the big Android Oreo update to the OnePlus 3 and 3T, but also started selling the newly announced OnePlus 5T. Now, the company making …</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>Here’s a look at the full patch notes from OnePlus:</p>
<ul>
<li>Optimizations for fingerprint unlock</li>
<li>Optimizations for face unlock</li>
<li>Improved accuracy for screen off gestures</li>
<li>Improved EIS during 4K video recording</li>
<li>Wi-Fi WPA2 security patch (KRACK vulnerability patch)</li>
<li>General stability improvements and bug fixes</li>
</ul>
<p>No feature updates were included this time around, this is just a launch patch to make sure everything is running smoothly. For more on the new OnePlus flagship, visit our initial <a href="http://ift.tt/2hvYcOq" rel="noopener" target="_blank">OnePlus 5T review</a> at the link.</p>

OnePlus 5T update improves fingerprint/face unlock, video image stabilization and more

The OnePlus 5T is here and has so far been a success for OnePlus. It’s the company’s fastest-selling smartphone ever and reviews have bee...

Black Friday on Amazon: Fat discounts on TP-Link routers, Garmin trackers, Asus gaming devices, and more!

<p><a href="http://geni.us/kG80k"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-817453" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2zxkFGn" srcset="http://ift.tt/2n25peW 840w, http://ift.tt/2zwGiqh 300w, http://ift.tt/2mXNkON 768w, http://ift.tt/2zxIJci 16w, http://ift.tt/2mWDAEB 32w, http://ift.tt/2zy6l08 28w, http://ift.tt/2mXcIEF 56w, http://ift.tt/2zxkFWT 64w, http://ift.tt/2mZ7DeQ 712w, http://ift.tt/2zyEkG1 1000w, http://ift.tt/2mZgNI6 1200w, http://ift.tt/2zw2NLR 792w, http://ift.tt/2mZ7FmY 1280w, http://ift.tt/2zy7YuU 770w, http://ift.tt/2mZ7FU0 355w, http://ift.tt/2zxIJsO 1333w" width="840" /></a></p>
<p>It’s finally Black Friday! The actual day that gave its name to an entire shopping season has arrived, and with it come some nice deals from everybody’s favorite giant retailer, Amazon.</p>
<p>Dozens of enticing Black Friday deals just went live on Amazon.com and we’ve sifted through them to bring you the very best. There’s a nice selection of tech gear on offer, though there are no new deals on smartphones so far. Here’s a list of the promos that just went live at midnight Pacific. As usual, you may want to hurry if you want to avoid the dreaded “Out of Stock” message:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/xaWjgwl">TP-Link smart home and networking products for up to 30% off</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/ARaaH1g">Up to 33% off on Asus routers</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/ARaaH1g">Up to 33% off on Asus monitors</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/ARaaH1g">Up to 33% off on Asus PC components</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/vZ9KvG">ASUS VivoBook convertible Intel Celeron N3060, 4GB RAM for $200 (save $100)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/6g6TdR">Asus ZenBook 3 UX390UA for $1000 (save $250)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/cVXKfIZ">Acer Nitro 5, Intel Core i5-7300HQ, for $680 (save $70)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/0qw1">Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop for $900 (save $250)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/M8Crg">Save up to 25% on Seagate hard drives</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/p15N">GoPro Hero 5 Black with gift card bundle for $350 (save $25)</a></li>
<li><a href="Garmin%20Vivosmart%20HR+%20for%20$120%20(save%20$60)">Garmin Vivosmart HR+ for $120 (save $60)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/pm9v">Garmin Fenix 3 HR for $300 (save $130)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/GyckB1R">Garmin Vivosmart HR Activity Tracker for $70 (save $10)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/GAqx">Amazfit A1612R Pace Gps Running Smartwatch for $110 (save $50)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/n6cjgvC">DOSS Touch Wireless Bluetooth V4.0 Portable Speaker for $24 (save $11)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/IGouj">Shure SE425-V Sound Isolating Earphones for $250 (save $50)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/CsxN">Ring Stick up Cam and Solar Panel Bundle (includes 2 cams and 2 solar panels) for $320 (save $120)</a></li>
</ul>
<p>If you’re looking for deals on other devices, check our up-to-date <a href="http://ift.tt/2lZrk5Y">Black Friday 2017 deals hub</a> where we add all the good deals as we find them. Here’s a selection of older smartphone deals you can still get on Amazon.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://tyvm.ly/N8jU1v">LG G6 Plus for $450 (save $50)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/ZoBfnj">Huawei Mate 9 for $400 (save $100)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://tyvm.ly/o28W">LG Q6 for $180 (save $40)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/bIY7">Honor 6X for $150 (save $50)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://geni.us/OnsA">Moto E4 Plus for $100 (save $80)</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Happy shopping!</p>

Black Friday on Amazon: Fat discounts on TP-Link routers, Garmin trackers, Asus gaming devices, and more!

It’s finally Black Friday! The actual day that gave its name to an entire shopping season has arrived, and with it come some nice deals fro...

5 biggest no-nos when buying a new smartphone

<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-764449" height="560" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2AqXdL8" srcset="http://ift.tt/2AqXdL8 840w, http://ift.tt/2A1mVVR 300w, http://ift.tt/2AqXnCe 768w, http://ift.tt/2A0aUjf 16w, http://ift.tt/2AqXhKS 32w, http://ift.tt/2A2kXV9 28w, http://ift.tt/2AqSUPX 56w, http://ift.tt/2A20Q9z 64w, http://ift.tt/2ArgPyr 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A48PDf 1200w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Shopping for a new smartphone can be exciting and stressful. With so many <a href="http://ift.tt/2gaB737">great options available</a>, it can be hard to choose the perfect one. </p>
<p>You have to be smart when deciding which phone to opt for. These things can be expensive, and you’ll likely use the one you get for at least a year or two before upgrading.</p>
<p>I can’t tell you which device to get. We all have different wants and needs. But I can tell you a few things not to do when shopping for a new handset to avoid common pitfalls and narrow down your choices. </p>
<h2>1. Spending too much money</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-783949" height="481" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A2mxXc" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A2mxXc 840w, http://ift.tt/2AqXlu6 300w, http://ift.tt/2A1MTs9 768w, http://ift.tt/2AqNODh 16w, http://ift.tt/2A2mzyi 32w, http://ift.tt/2AqXo9g 28w, http://ift.tt/2A0W2kX 56w, http://ift.tt/2AtFnqG 64w, http://ift.tt/2A2mCKu 349w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7yGM 958w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Spending more money than you can afford is a big no-no. Before you even start thinking about which device to get, you have to set a budget.</p>
<p>Setting a budget might not be the sexiest thing in the world, but it has a big advantage: it will help you narrow down your choices. If you can only afford to spend $300, you can ignore more expensive devices.</p>
<p>I know, smartphones are awesome. We all want the most expensive one with all the latest features. But there are more important things in life. The last thing you want is to struggle to pay the bills because you’ve spent too much money on a smartphone.</p>
<h2>2. Being a brand snob</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-761711" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A2mFpE" srcset="http://ift.tt/2Ar7AhS 840w, http://ift.tt/2A2m9I3 300w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7AOU 768w, http://ift.tt/2A2mJ8S 16w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7BSY 32w, http://ift.tt/2A3etoN 28w, http://ift.tt/2AqXoGi 56w, http://ift.tt/2A3L7XC 64w, http://ift.tt/2AqSVDv 712w, http://ift.tt/2A0rL5E 1000w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7G9e 792w, http://ift.tt/2A3Pv8Q 770w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7GWM 355w, http://ift.tt/2A2m9Yz 1080w" width="840" /></p>
<p>A big mistake when buying a new smartphone is to be a brand snob. This means you only consider well-known brands and avoid less-established ones.</p>
<p>Companies like OnePlus can offer smartphones that are just as good as the ones from bigger players for a lot less money. The recently announced <a href="http://ift.tt/2hvYcOq">OnePlus 5T</a>, for example, is $225 cheaper than the <a href="http://ift.tt/2z2zdt0">Samsung Galaxy S8</a> and offers similar performance. The 5T actually offers more in a few areas, as it comes with more RAM, supports dual-SIM, and has a dual-camera setup on the back.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/2hF53sI">OnePlus 5T vs Samsung Galaxy S8: quick look</a></p>
<p>Keep an open mind when buying a new smartphone. Don’t assume that larger smartphone manufacturers are a level above smaller ones when it comes to product quality. In most cases, they aren’t.</p>
<p>It’s not that you shouldn’t buy a smartphone from Samsung, LG, or any other tech giant. You just need to realize you’re paying a premium because of the brand. If you find a smartphone you like made by Honor, Xiaomi, Oppo, OnePlus, and other smaller companies, there’s no real reason not to get it.</p>
<h2>3. Not having your priorities straight</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-771742" height="472" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A2mRVU" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A2mRVU 840w, http://ift.tt/2Apiqos 300w, http://ift.tt/2A0aV6N 768w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7IOo 16w, http://ift.tt/2A2ITaO 32w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7Kpu 28w, http://ift.tt/2A2kXo7 56w, http://ift.tt/2ArgQCv 64w, http://ift.tt/2A2nfU7 712w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7N4E 1000w, http://ift.tt/2A2Qsi0 792w, http://ift.tt/2ArL8Fu 770w, http://ift.tt/2A3l2HW 356w, http://ift.tt/2Ar7OFK 1080w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Keep a clear idea of the specs and features you want in a device. It’s harder to choose the right smartphone without one.</p>
<p>Grab a piece of paper and write down the features that are most important to you— a great camera, a large battery, wireless charging, expandable storage, a bezel-less design. This will narrow down your choices even further, as you’ll be able to cross off devices which don’t offer the features you want.</p>
<p>It also makes it easier to choose between similar devices. Say you’re deciding between the <a href="http://ift.tt/2ymdRcc">LG G6</a> and Samsung Galaxy S8. If your priorities are to have as big of a battery as possible and a great camera, the G6 is arguably a better option. It features a larger battery than the S8 (3,300 vs 3,000 mAh) and comes with a dual-camera setup that allows you to capture those fancy bokeh images. But if you value performance above all else, the S8 is a better fit due to its faster chipset (Snapdragon 835 vs 821).</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Read: </strong><a href="http://ift.tt/2Ar7PcM">Galaxy S8 vs LG G6: Which is right for YOU?</a></p>
<p>Keep in mind that you’ll likely have to make some compromises depending on your budget, so make sure you write down the features you want in order of importance.</p>
<h2>4. Overlooking older smartphones</h2>
<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-760075" height="560" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A2IUeS" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A2IUeS 840w, http://ift.tt/2AqqZzj 300w, http://ift.tt/2A1cJwj 768w, http://ift.tt/2AqVQM6 16w, http://ift.tt/2A0aVUl 32w, http://ift.tt/2AsabrW 28w, http://ift.tt/2A2mwT8 56w, http://ift.tt/2ArHdZ0 64w, http://ift.tt/2A1cIsf 1000w, http://ift.tt/2ArMRu7 1200w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Overlooking older devices is a common mistake — don’t do it. A year-old smartphone might still offer all the features you’re looking and could be a real bargain.</p>
<p>The latest smartphones aren’t always a lot better than their predecessors. In some cases, all you can expect are design changes — which aren’t always good — and slightly improved performance. If you don’t care about having the latest handset, getting a one- or two-year-old device is a great option that will save you a lot of money.</p>
<p>For example, instead of opting for the Galaxy S8, you could go with last year’s <a href="http://ift.tt/2zoNYan">Galaxy S7 Edge</a>. The device still has more than enough power for demanding users, comes with a large display with curved sides, and is resistant to water and dust. More importantly, you can get it <a href="http://tyvm.ly/xE8U">for $500</a>, instead of<a href="http://fave.co/2zLyEFf"> $725</a>.</p>
<p>The lower price tag means missing out on a few bells and whistles, though. Picking an S7 Edge means not getting the bezel-less design, the popular 18:9 display, and higher resolution selfie camera of the S8. It all comes back to having your priorities straight. If you don’t care much about the additional features the S8 brings to the table, the S7 Edge is still a fantastic option.</p>
<p>So when you’re in the market for a smartphone, make sure to consider older devices as well. Check specs and features online to figure out whether an older handset has everything you need and if it’s worth getting over its successor.</p>
<h2>5. Not checking deals</h2>
<p><img alt="black friday 2016" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-729011" height="413" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2A3mLwW" srcset="http://ift.tt/2A3mLwW 840w, http://ift.tt/2ArL9cw 300w, http://ift.tt/2A0W38v 768w, http://ift.tt/2AskLPF 16w, http://ift.tt/2A3l2Ys 32w, http://ift.tt/2AtFpyO 28w, http://ift.tt/2A20QGB 56w, http://ift.tt/2ArCWFc 64w, http://ift.tt/2A20PT3 1000w, http://ift.tt/2ArHfjA 1200w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Prices vary from retailer to retailer. This means buying a new handset from the first store you visit might be a huge mistake.</p>
<p>When you know exactly which smartphone you want to buy, it’s best to do some digging and get it from the store offering the lowest price. Check Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, B&H, and other retailers to compare prices. A few minutes of research could save you hundreds of dollars. You can also check our <a href="http://ift.tt/2ztvI3i">Deals page</a> to see which smartphones are currently on sale.</p>
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<p>The <a href="http://ift.tt/2ywIfRK">Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact</a> currently retails for <a href="http://fave.co/2j7XB5O">$540 on Best Buy’s website</a>, while Amazon is <a href="http://tyvm.ly/MIMrR">selling it for $510</a>. On eBay, the device is listed <a href="http://fave.co/2zMOeR3">at just $440</a>. The difference between the lowest and highest price is $100, which is a lot of money. There are even better deals available for other handsets, but you have to put in some time to do the research.</p>
<p>You can also take advantage of Black Friday deals to save a few bucks. This year, Best Buy will be offering $50 off the <a href="http://ift.tt/2Auv0ih">Honor 6X</a>, $75 off the <a href="http://ift.tt/2yT21Hl">Moto G5 Plus</a>, and $100 off the <a href="http://ift.tt/2gslPul">Sony Xperia XZ Premium</a>. More great Black Friday offers will be available, some of which you can check out by clicking the button below.</p>
<div class="aa_custom_button_wrapp center"><a class="aa_button cbs_button add-active cbs_icon cbs-shopping-cart fasc-alignment-center center" href="http://ift.tt/2lZrk5Y" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: #ff8800;" target="_blank">Black Friday deals</a></div>
<hr />
<p>There you have it. These are five of the biggest things to avoid when buying a new smartphone. These aren’t the only no-nos, though. Try to avoid overlooking the software experience, buying a phone based only on design, and ignoring build quality. Also, don’t buy a new smartphone right after it’s released. It can be a big mistake from a financial standpoint, as a lot of new devices go on sale within the first few months.</p>
<p>Do you agree or disagree with my list? Would you change anything? Let me know in the comments.</p>
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5 biggest no-nos when buying a new smartphone

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Let the Tamagotchi craze consume you once again with My Tamagotchi Forever

<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-817392 size-large" height="472" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2zvHTN3" srcset="http://ift.tt/2zvHTN3 840w, http://ift.tt/2mYhtxo 300w, http://ift.tt/2zwlS0D 768w, http://ift.tt/2mXZ5or 16w, http://ift.tt/2zxwqg4 32w, http://ift.tt/2mYN3LK 28w, http://ift.tt/2zxLg6k 56w, http://ift.tt/2mWQNgx 64w, http://ift.tt/2zxLzxS 712w, http://ift.tt/2mYhscO 1000w, http://ift.tt/2zxwuwk 1200w, http://ift.tt/2mXeeqi 792w, http://ift.tt/2zxwvQU 1280w, http://ift.tt/2mXt7sD 1340w, http://ift.tt/2zxwxZ2 770w, http://ift.tt/2mY3Ka0 356w" width="840" /></p>
<p>I don’t know how I withstood the Tamagotchi craze of the 1990s and early 2000s — I can thank my Game Boy Color for that, I guess — but I understood why it was so popular. For those who fell into that craze, you might be happy to learn that, in celebration of Tamagotchi’s 20th anniversary, Bandai Namco announced <em>My Tamagotchi Forever</em> for mobile.</p>
<p>Thanks to much more powerful hardware in this day and age, your Tamagotchi is far more expressive this time around that you might remember, with all of them living in a new town called Tamatown. Aesthetically, <em>My Tamagotchi Forever</em> seems to be inspired by <em>Animal Crossing</em>, a feeling that is somewhat extended to the gameplay, since you can walk around town and interact with other Tamagotchi characters.</p>
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<p>As far as taking care of your own Tamagotchi is concerned, your job, as with the original toy 20 years ago, is to make sure they are taken care of. This means making sure they are fed, cleaned, washed, and get enough sleep. Your Tamagotchi evolves from one type to another, depending on how you care for them, so do not be surprised if you take poor care of them and they end up looking like a hideous, grumpy troll-looking thing.</p>
<p>All of this sounds great for Tamagotchi fans, but <i>My Tamagotchi Forever</i> is a free-to-play endeavor, which means that the game will likely include microtransactions. We will hold off judgment for when the game actually launches, but I’d be lying if I said I smiled when I learned about that.</p>
<p>Speaking of availability, <em>My Tamagotchi Forever</em> will be available for <a href="http://ift.tt/2yyBMHu">Android</a> sometime in 2018. In the meantime, you can visit the game’s <a href="http://ift.tt/2mVmh6N">website</a> and register to inspire a Tamagotchi that will be in the game for all to see.</p>

Let the Tamagotchi craze consume you once again with My Tamagotchi Forever

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Samsung rolling out 3rd Oreo beta and November security update for Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus

<p><img alt="" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-771806" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2BixSjG" srcset="http://ift.tt/2zhyBAd 840w, http://ift.tt/2BixSAc 300w, http://ift.tt/2zk01Fz 768w, http://ift.tt/2Bdov4x 16w, http://ift.tt/2zhyDbj 32w, http://ift.tt/2Bh5COk 28w, http://ift.tt/2zhyDYR 56w, http://ift.tt/2BgJXFZ 64w, http://ift.tt/2zhyGE1 712w, http://ift.tt/2BiBfHo 1000w, http://ift.tt/2zhD7yA 1200w, http://ift.tt/2Bhdf79 792w, http://ift.tt/2zhyJ2F 1280w, http://ift.tt/2BhCx5h 1340w, http://ift.tt/2zhyLrj 770w, http://ift.tt/2BgShFD 355w" width="840" /></p>
<p>As Thanksgiving celebrations begin in the US, Samsung is embracing the season of gift-giving in its own way by rolling out the third <a href="http://ift.tt/2iUeYKW">Android 8.0 Oreo beta</a> for the <a href="http://ift.tt/2z2zdt0">Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus</a>, as well as the November security patch for all other S8 users.</p>
<p>At the moment it seems like only beta testers in the UK have received the latest Oreo beta firmware, but the US and South Korea should follow fairly soon. Hopefully the US version also carries a fix for the nasty bug some users reported after the second beta. The firmware was eventually pulled for causing some devices to <a href="http://ift.tt/2zLUsU2">stop receiving network signal</a> entirely.</p>
<p>As for what’s new in the 623 MB update, well… not that much. The general focus this time around is a sizeable bunch of bug fixes, although the changelog does mention Bluetooth stability improvements. The Samsung Members app also references a new feature that lets users hide the “Apps running in the background notification”.</p>
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<p>The third Oreo beta also includes the general November security patch, while non-beta program users should be receiving the November patch as an OTA update shortly. Some users are reporting that the update has gone live in the Netherlands, so it shouldn’t be long before it enjoys a wider rollout.</p>
<p>It’s a hefty security patch too, weighing in at a chunky 545 MB. The update brings fixes for the notorious Wi-Fi KRACK vulnerability as well as over 60 other exploits (via <a href="http://ift.tt/2zhhBtE" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><em>SamMobile</em></a>). The build number for the latest patch is G950FXXU1AQK7.</p>
<p>If you’ve received any of the updates in another region be sure to tell us in the comments below or send <a href="http://ift.tt/2A3le7A">us a tip</a>!</p>

Samsung rolling out 3rd Oreo beta and November security update for Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus

As Thanksgiving celebrations begin in the US, Samsung is embracing the season of gift-giving in its own way by rolling out the third Androi...

The OnePlus 5T will receive a number of camera improvements with upcoming update

<p><img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-816019 size-large" height="473" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2zQmM7D" srcset="http://ift.tt/2AiOVEI 840w, http://ift.tt/2zTDfbf 300w, http://ift.tt/2AiOWbK 768w, http://ift.tt/2zTDgvP 16w, http://ift.tt/2AfLdf8 32w, http://ift.tt/2zQmOMN 28w, http://ift.tt/2AiOXMQ 56w, http://ift.tt/2zQmPjP 64w, http://ift.tt/2AfLf6K 712w, http://ift.tt/2zQmQnT 1000w, http://ift.tt/2AiOYQU 1200w, http://ift.tt/2zTDjrv 792w, http://ift.tt/2AiOZUY 1280w, http://ift.tt/2zQmRYZ 1340w, http://ift.tt/2AiP2A8 770w, http://ift.tt/2zTGXBm 355w" width="840" /></p>
<p>For the OnePlus 5T, the company replaced the <a href="http://ift.tt/2yj4IQc">OnePlus 5</a>‘s telephoto lens with a 20 MP shooter that supposedly captures more light and performs better in low-light scenarios. Instead, we noted in our <a href="http://ift.tt/2hvYcOq">initial review</a> that the OnePlus 5T’s low-light performance was <em>fine</em><img alt="™" class="wp-smiley" src="http://ift.tt/2sV4VZs" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />, something that OnePlus CEO Carl Pei hopes to rectify with future updates.</p>
<p>Pei took to OnePlus’ forums to share that the OnePlus 5T will receive an update that looks to improve the cameras’ low-light performance, particularly when it comes to sharpness. Indeed, pictures taken in low-light scenarios with the OnePlus 5T looked somewhat soft to our eyes, so any improvement in that arena is a welcome one.</p>
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<p>The update also looks to improve the front-facing camera when it comes to more natural exposure in selfies. Finally, OnePlus’ beautification mode, a very strange mode that airbrushes your face and is a boon for those living the kawaii life, will only be on by default in certain Asian markets moving forward.</p>
<p>To what extent the update will improve things, I cannot say — <a href="http://ift.tt/2lyELta">Essential</a> and <a href="http://ift.tt/2hVHfAG">Razer</a> also are trying to make camera improvements of their own through software updates. The main difference is, while the Essential Phone’s and Razer Phone’s cameras were not that good to begin with, the OnePlus 5T’s cameras are good, if unremarkable. In other words, there’s already a good foundation with the OnePlus 5T’s cameras, so improvements look more like icing on the cake than the cake itself.</p>
<p>According to OnePlus, it will test the update with a private group next week, with a general roll-out scheduled for sometime in early December. In the meantime, let us know in the comments if you own the OnePlus 5T and are happy with the phone’s camera performance.</p>

The OnePlus 5T will receive a number of camera improvements with upcoming update

For the OnePlus 5T, the company replaced the OnePlus 5 ‘s telephoto lens with a 20 MP shooter that supposedly captures more light and perfo...

Facebook Messenger set to get more annoying thanks to “streak” feature

<p><img alt="" class="size-large wp-image-745346 aligncenter" height="472" sizes="(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px" src="http://ift.tt/2jSsQ8Y" srcset="http://ift.tt/2jSM6mU 840w, http://ift.tt/2Arj44T 300w, http://ift.tt/2A2QshC 768w, http://ift.tt/2AqnHMG 16w, http://ift.tt/2A2Dz7g 32w, http://ift.tt/2As7GpF 28w, http://ift.tt/2zZWwHU 56w, http://ift.tt/2AqjJUg 64w, http://ift.tt/2zZWAaC 712w, http://ift.tt/2As7HKf 792w, http://ift.tt/2zZWBLI 770w, http://ift.tt/2AqjOr2 356w" width="840" /></p>
<p>Snapchat is the messaging platform that every other messaging platform is looking to for ideas. This, despite <a href="http://ift.tt/2ydc9rb" rel="noopener" target="_blank">recent reports</a> of $443 million in losses and slowing user base growth (yes I know it’s still <em>reasonably</em> popular). While Snap <a href="http://ift.tt/2iCJoO9" rel="noopener" target="_blank">eyes a redesign for its mobile app</a>, Facebook looks like it’s nabbing another one of Snapchat’s current features.</p>
<p>As pointed out by <em>The Verge</em>, Facebook Messenger users have taken to Twitter to announce that they are now seeing Snapchat-like “Streaks” feature when using the service. This appears to be in the testing stages right now, it’s only available to some users, but the functionality is basically the same as Snapchat’s Snapstreak implementation.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">Messenger is testing out streak counts… Streak counts really bug me. <a href="https://t.co/leDRemkSR3">http://pic.twitter.com/leDRemkSR3</a></p>
<p>— case (@CaseSandberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CaseSandberg/status/933231416732561409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2017</a></p>
</blockquote>
<p><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8" type="text/javascript">
</script></p>
<p>When Facebook Messenger users message the same contact for two days in a row, a lightning bolt emoji will appear to show that they’re on a streak. Users must then continue to message on a daily basis to maintain the streak or risk losing it.</p>
<p>While the feature may make sense to companies purely from business perspective — i.e. keeping users coming back to their app each day — streaks can frustrate some users because they incentivize messaging for messaging’s sake. It doesn’t matter the context or contents of the conversation, you’re “rewarded” only for taking part. And even though the reward of an emoji next to your conversation might seem hollow (because it is), I’ve read reports of users feeling <a href="http://ift.tt/2A2dNQQ" rel="noopener" target="_blank">obligated to maintain it</a>; it can cause unnecessary stress. </p>
<p>Just because Facebook is testing this feature doesn’t mean it will implement it, however; whether it does will no doubt depend on how users interact with it. So, do us all a favor, and please ignore it, eh?</p>
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Facebook Messenger set to get more annoying thanks to “streak” feature

Snapchat is the messaging platform that every other messaging platform is looking to for ideas. This, despite recent reports of $443 milli...