theverge--2020-12-02--TikTok says Bella Poarch’s ‘M to the B’ was its biggest viral video of the year

Bella Poarch ’ s hypnotic video lip-syncing “ M to the B ” was TikTok ’ s biggest viral video of the year , TikTok announced this morning .
Poarch was followed by 420doggface208 ’ s instantly iconic skate / cran-raspberry juice video set to Fleetwood Mac ’ s “ Dreams.
” The rankings were revealed as part of TikTok ’ s year-end roundup of its biggest videos , trends , and creators .
The rankings aren ’ t entirely scientific ( the viral video rankings , for instance , are based on both “ views ” and “ impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ representative look at what dominated the app and broke out beyond it .
Other videos on TikTok ’ s top viral list include Will Smith ’ s entry in the Wipe It Down challenge , and Julian Bass ’ superhero special effects video that went viral enough to get the attention of Disney executive chairman Bob Iger .
The company ’ s list of top creators overall is led by Charli D ’ Amelio , of course , and also includes familiar names like Addison Rae and Noah Beck .
Jason Derulo is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creator , followed by Kylie Jenner and Lizzo .
Anyone who ’ s spent time on TikTok could probably guess a handful of TikTok ’ s top songs of the year .
The number one ranking went to Derulo ’ s “ Savage Love ( Laxed - Siren Beat ) , ” with Megan Thee Stallion ’ s “ Savage Remix ” coming in second and “ WAP ” taking fourth .
Like the other categories , TikTok isn ’ t basing these rankings purely on plays , but also on metrics like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often people engaged with those videos .
The full list seems to be more about illustrating what a huge year TikTok had , rather than literally ranking all success across the app .
But to that end , the rankings do a great job of showing just how many communities , trends , viral songs , and more broke out thanks to TikTok , from editing tools like the green screen effect to aesthetics like cottagecore .

Bella Poarch’s hypnotic video lip-syncing “M to the B” was TikTok’s biggest viral video of the year, TikTok announced this morning. Poarch was followed by 420doggface208’s instantly iconic skate / cran-raspberry juice video set to Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.”
The rankings were revealed as part of TikTok’s year-end roundup of its biggest videos, trends, and creators. The rankings aren’t entirely scientific (the viral video rankings, for instance, are based on both “views” and “impact”), but they offer a representative look at what dominated the app and broke out beyond it.
Other videos on TikTok’s top viral list include Will Smith’s entry in the Wipe It Down challenge, and Julian Bass’ superhero special effects video that went viral enough to get the attention of Disney executive chairman Bob Iger.
The company’s list of top creators overall is led by Charli D’Amelio, of course, and also includes familiar names like Addison Rae and Noah Beck. Jason Derulo is listed as TikTok’s top celebrity creator, followed by Kylie Jenner and Lizzo.
Anyone who’s spent time on TikTok could probably guess a handful of TikTok’s top songs of the year. The number one ranking went to Derulo’s “Savage Love (Laxed - Siren Beat),” with Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage Remix” coming in second and “WAP” taking fourth. Like the other categories, TikTok isn’t basing these rankings purely on plays, but also on metrics like how many videos were created and how often people engaged with those videos.


theverge--2020-12-02--Spotify says it’s dominating the podcasting market because of a million-plus tiny podcasts

Spotify ’ s $ 100 million-plus Anchor acquisition is seemingly paying off .
In data released today as part of its annual Wrapped look-back on the year , the company says Anchor , which makes podcast creation software , powered 80 percent of new podcasts on Spotify this year , meaning the software contributed more than 1 million shows to Spotify ’ s catalog in 2020 alone .
Overall , Anchor powers 70 percent of Spotify ’ s total podcast catalog , or around 1.3 million out of over 1.9 million shows .
People also seem to be listening to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ account for more consumption , in terms of time spent listening , than any other third-party podcast hosting or distribution provider on its platform .
( Not counting shows owned or operated by Spotify . )
This sounds surprising , at least to me , especially given that big networks like NPR , The New York Times , and Wondery all put their shows on Spotify .
But Mike Mignano , head of podcast mission at Spotify , says the data point speaks to the large global podcasting ecosystem that people might not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million Anchor shows on the platform , listening time adds up fast , even if some shows only have a small group of dedicated fans .
“ I think people still tend to think of podcasting as being this sort of small , niche community , and I think the 2020 growth has highlighted that it ’ s very , very quickly grown far beyond that , and there ’ s just so much more scale and depth to the medium than I think people realize , ” he says .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world that want to say something , or want to share their voice , or want to have themselves heard , there can be actually far , far , far more new podcasts over the next couple of years.
” Anchor-hosted shows account for more consumption of third-party podcast content on Spotify than any other podcast hosting or distribution provider Spotify says Anchor ’ s top five markets in 2020 , by total number of shows , were the US , Brazil , Indonesia , Mexico , and Great Britain .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become exclusives .
Meanwhile , the fastest-growing markets , looking at the average monthly increase in new shows , are India , Mexico , Brazil , Argentina , and Indonesia .
India accounts for nearly 40,000 Anchor-made shows and has been growing at an average of 22 percent month-over-month increase in 2020 .
Still , many of these creators might not be making money through their podcasting , or at least not with the help of Spotify .
Although Anchor supports monetization and automatically inserts ads into participating shows , the feature is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while a variety of countries contribute to Anchor ’ s growing reach , the creators on the platform likely aren ’ t making a living , or even any income , because of their podcasting work .
( Mignano and a spokesperson declined to comment on when monetization might roll out to other markets , although in the US , a spokesperson says more than 100,000 creators have generated revenue through Anchor ’ s sponsorships product .
Spotify itself had another big podcasting year .
It made two big acquisitions — The Ringer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deals with figures like Joe Rogan and Kim Kardashian West .
Yesterday , it said two of the most popular shows on the platform this year include The Joe Rogan Experience and The Michelle Obama Podcast , both of which were major investments for the company .
But not every show involves a recognizable name , which is why the Anchor deal was a critical part of Spotify ’ s podcast strategy .
People all over the world are making shows with Spotify-owned software .
Whether they can become superstars and make money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next challenge for Spotify , at least if it wants to retain these podcasters in the years to come .

Spotify’s $100 million-plus Anchor acquisition is seemingly paying off. In data released today as part of its annual Wrapped look-back on the year, the company says Anchor, which makes podcast creation software, powered 80 percent of new podcasts on Spotify this year, meaning the software contributed more than 1 million shows to Spotify’s catalog in 2020 alone. Overall, Anchor powers 70 percent of Spotify’s total podcast catalog, or around 1.3 million out of over 1.9 million shows.
People also seem to be listening to that content. Spotify says Anchor shows account for more consumption, in terms of time spent listening, than any other third-party podcast hosting or distribution provider on its platform. (Not counting shows owned or operated by Spotify.) This sounds surprising, at least to me, especially given that big networks like NPR, The New York Times, and Wondery all put their shows on Spotify. But Mike Mignano, head of podcast mission at Spotify, says the data point speaks to the large global podcasting ecosystem that people might not know exists. With more than a million Anchor shows on the platform, listening time adds up fast, even if some shows only have a small group of dedicated fans.
“I think people still tend to think of podcasting as being this sort of small, niche community, and I think the 2020 growth has highlighted that it’s very, very quickly grown far beyond that, and there’s just so much more scale and depth to the medium than I think people realize,” he says. “We feel like for all the people in the world that want to say something, or want to share their voice, or want to have themselves heard, there can be actually far, far, far more new podcasts over the next couple of years.”
Anchor-hosted shows account for more consumption of third-party podcast content on Spotify than any other podcast hosting or distribution provider
Spotify says Anchor’s top five markets in 2020, by total number of shows, were the US, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, and Great Britain. In Indonesia, Spotify signed nine shows to become exclusives. Meanwhile, the fastest-growing markets, looking at the average monthly increase in new shows, are India, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Indonesia. India accounts for nearly 40,000 Anchor-made shows and has been growing at an average of 22 percent month-over-month increase in 2020.
Still, many of these creators might not be making money through their podcasting, or at least not with the help of Spotify. Although Anchor supports monetization and automatically inserts ads into participating shows, the feature is only available in the US. So while a variety of countries contribute to Anchor’s growing reach, the creators on the platform likely aren’t making a living, or even any income, because of their podcasting work. (Mignano and a spokesperson declined to comment on when monetization might roll out to other markets, although in the US, a spokesperson says more than 100,000 creators have generated revenue through Anchor’s sponsorships product.


theverge--2020-12-02--Zoom and Among Us dominate Apple’s most downloaded charts in 2020

2020 was a year when people around the world were forced to find new ways to connect , and that trend is clearly visible when you look at the most downloaded apps on Apple hardware .
Today the company revealed the most popular apps on its platforms for the year , and two names in particular stand out : video chat tool Zoom and social game Among Us , which were the top free app and game on both the iPhone and iPad .
Neither name should be a big surprise .
Despite launching in 2018 , Among Us has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , regularly topping Twitch charts and even luring politicians to the world of streaming .
The mobile version is particularly popular since it ’ s free to download .
Similarly , Zoom has seen massive growth as it became a de facto social space for people and businesses looking for face-to-face connections during the pandemic .
The rest of the charts are somewhat less surprising , though the consistently-popular social space Roblox does make an appearance .
And yes , Minecraft is still the best-selling paid game .
( You can see the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ article . )
This trend of connectedness can also be seen in Apple ’ s annual app awards .
In fact , the company even introduced a new series of awards based around what it calls “ helpfulness.
” Here ’ s the complete list of all 15 winners : • iPad Game of the Year : Legends of Runeterra • Apple TV App of the Year : Disney Plus • Apple TV Game of the Year : Dandara : Trials of Fear • App Trend of the Year : Shine for helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Year : Explain Everything Whiteboard for helping bring remote classrooms to life • App Trend of the Year : Caribu for connecting families to loved ones • App Trend of the Year : Pokémon Go for reinventing the way we play • App Trend of the Year : ShareTheMeal for helping users make a difference Many of these games and apps were released prior to 2020 , but saw a new life as users turned to their smart devices for distractions and connection .
Pokémon Go , for instance , had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ let users play indoors , and just saw its biggest update so far .
The digital-only Pokémon Go Fest proved especially popular .
“ The excitement for Go Fest was pleasant to see , ” Niantic ’ s Matt Slemon tells The Verge .
“ There ’ s a challenge when we try to recreate these outdoor experiences knowing that some of our players can ’ t get out there , especially for those who have attended in-person Go Fests before , trying to make sure we live up to their expectations.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team behind Apple Arcade launch title Sneaky Sasquatch , he found that the game ’ s themes became more relevant in 2020 .
“ Most of this game is based on our childhood , ” Ringrose tells The Verge .
“ We think what might be resonating with a lot of the kids is that they ’ re not able to have this normal childhood , like going outside and fishing and canoeing , so they ’ re playing our game to get a slice of that.
” Many of these games and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ current state of the world by adding new features or capabilities designed around social distancing .
But for Caribu , an interactive video chat app originally designed for parents to talk to their kids , that hasn ’ t been the case .
The app was ideally suited for this moment : the developer ’ s main challenge was to scale to meet the demand .
“ I didn ’ t pivot , I had to expand , ” Maxeme Tuchman , CEO and co-founder of Caribu , tells The Verge .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by traveling parents and grandparents , but now it ’ s kids who are being virtually babysat , or watching on-demand videos , or talking to their cousins and friends who they haven ’ t seen in school.
” Apple ’ s 2020 awards and most popular apps serve as an ideal snapshot of how people spent their time in 2020 .
Much of that time involved a screen , but also other people .
You can check out the full most-downloaded list below :

2020 was a year when people around the world were forced to find new ways to connect, and that trend is clearly visible when you look at the most downloaded apps on Apple hardware. Today the company revealed the most popular apps on its platforms for the year, and two names in particular stand out: video chat tool Zoom and social game Among Us, which were the top free app and game on both the iPhone and iPad.
Neither name should be a big surprise. Despite launching in 2018, Among Us has become arguably the biggest game of 2020, regularly topping Twitch charts and even luring politicians to the world of streaming. The mobile version is particularly popular since it’s free to download. Similarly, Zoom has seen massive growth as it became a de facto social space for people and businesses looking for face-to-face connections during the pandemic. The rest of the charts are somewhat less surprising, though the consistently-popular social space Roblox does make an appearance. And yes, Minecraft is still the best-selling paid game. (You can see the complete charts at the bottom of this article.)
This trend of connectedness can also be seen in Apple’s annual app awards. In fact, the company even introduced a new series of awards based around what it calls “helpfulness.” Here’s the complete list of all 15 winners:
iPhone App of the Year: Wakeout
iPhone Game of the Year: Genshin Impact
iPad App of the Year: Zoom
iPad Game of the Year: Legends of Runeterra
Mac App of the Year: Fantastical
Mac Game of the Year: Disco Elysium
Apple TV App of the Year: Disney Plus
Apple TV Game of the Year: Dandara: Trials of Fear
Apple Watch App of the Year: Endel
Apple Arcade Game of the Year: Sneaky Sasquatch
App Trend of the Year: Shine for helping users practice self care
App Trend of the Year: Explain Everything Whiteboard for helping bring remote classrooms to life
App Trend of the Year: Caribu for connecting families to loved ones
App Trend of the Year: Pokémon Go for reinventing the way we play
App Trend of the Year: ShareTheMeal for helping users make a difference
Many of these games and apps were released prior to 2020, but saw a new life as users turned to their smart devices for distractions and connection. Pokémon Go, for instance, had a huge year as it adapted to let users play indoors, and just saw its biggest update so far. The digital-only Pokémon Go Fest proved especially popular. “The excitement for Go Fest was pleasant to see,” Niantic’s Matt Slemon tells The Verge. “There’s a challenge when we try to recreate these outdoor experiences knowing that some of our players can’t get out there, especially for those who have attended in-person Go Fests before, trying to make sure we live up to their expectations.”
For Jesse Ringrose, one-half of the team behind Apple Arcade launch title Sneaky Sasquatch, he found that the game’s themes became more relevant in 2020. “Most of this game is based on our childhood,” Ringrose tells The Verge. “We think what might be resonating with a lot of the kids is that they’re not able to have this normal childhood, like going outside and fishing and canoeing, so they’re playing our game to get a slice of that.”
“I didn’t pivot, I had to expand.”
Many of these games and services were forced to adapt to the current state of the world by adding new features or capabilities designed around social distancing. But for Caribu, an interactive video chat app originally designed for parents to talk to their kids, that hasn’t been the case. The app was ideally suited for this moment: the developer’s main challenge was to scale to meet the demand. “I didn’t pivot, I had to expand,” Maxeme Tuchman, CEO and co-founder of Caribu, tells The Verge. “Caribu before the pandemic was mainly used by traveling parents and grandparents, but now it’s kids who are being virtually babysat, or watching on-demand videos, or talking to their cousins and friends who they haven’t seen in school.”
Apple’s 2020 awards and most popular apps serve as an ideal snapshot of how people spent their time in 2020. Much of that time involved a screen, but also other people. You can check out the full most-downloaded list below:
Top free iPhone apps
1. Zoom
2. TikTok
3. Disney Plus
4. YouTube
5. Instagram
6. Facebook
7. Snapchat
8. Messenger
9. Gmail
10. Cash App
Top paid iPhone apps
1. TouchRetouch
2. Procreate Pocket
3. Dark Sky Weather
4. Facetune
5. HotSchedules
6. AutoSleep Track Sleep
7. The Wonder Weeks
8. SkyView
9. Shadowrocket
10. Sky Guide
Top free iPhone games
1. Among Us
2. Call of Duty: Mobile
3. Roblox
4. Subway Surfers
5. Ink Inc.
6. Magic Tiles 3: Piano Game
7. Brain Test: Tricky Puzzles
8. Brain Out
9. Coin Master
10. Cube Surfer
Top paid iPhone games
1. Minecraft
2. Plague Inc.
3. Heads Up
4. Monopoly
5. Bloons TD6
6. Geometry Dash
7. NBA 2K20
8. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
9. The Game of Life
10. True Skate
Top free iPad apps
1. Zoom
2. Disney Plus
3. YouTube
4. Netflix
5. Google Chrome
6. TikTok
7. Amazon Prime Video
8. Gmail
9. Hulu
10. Google Classroom
Top paid iPad apps
1. Procreate
2. GoodNotes 5
3. Notability
4. Duet Display
5. Teach Your Monster
6. LumaFusion
7. Affinity Designer
8. Toca Hair Salon 3
9: Toca Life: Hospital
10. Toca Kitchen 2
Top free iPad games
1. Among Us
2. Roblox
3. Magic Tiles 3: Piano Game
4. Ink Inc.
5. Call of Duty: Mobile
6. Subway Surfers
7. Dancing Road: Color Ball Run
8. Tiles Hop: EDM Rush
9. Mario Kart Tour
10. Save The Girl
Top paid iPad games
1. Minecraft
2. Monopoly
3. Bloons TD 6
4. Plague Inc.
5. Geometry Dash
6. The Game of Life
7. Five Nights at Freddy’s
8. Human: Fall Flat
9. Stardew Valley
10. Terraria
Top Arcade games
1. Sneaky Sasquatch
2. Hot Lava
3. Skate City
4. Sonic Racing
5. Pac-Man Party Royale
6. SpongeBob: Patty Pursuit
7. Oceanhorn 2
8. Crossy Road Castle
9. What the Golf?


theverge--2020-12-02--Fortnite’s latest season adds new locations and weapons, along with Baby Yoda and the Mandalorian

Following a cataclysmic event starring the supervillain Galactus , the latest season of Fortnite is almost here .
Chapter 2 : Season 5 has been dubbed “ zero point , ” and it involves hunters from different realities joining forces to fight something called “ the loop.
” Most importantly : one of those hunters is the Mandalorian , accompanied as always by Baby Yoda ( aka Grogu ) .
While last season was entirely Marvel-themed , season 5 features a bevy of new original Fortnite characters , in addition to the famed Star Wars bounty hunter .
Those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be able to unlock characters like an ancient warrior and a sci-fi hunter that looks ripped from a Tsutomu Nihei manga .
There ’ s also a creature called “ Mancake the fighting Flapjack , ” which feels very Fortnite .
( This is the game that gave us Peely the banana , after all . )
Outside of characters , there are new locations including a jungle area and a sci-fi desert caused by the exploding zero point .
It also wouldn ’ t be a new season of Fortnite without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Dragon ’ s Breath shotgun , the Mandalorian ’ s Amban sniper rifle , and the Night Hawk , which lets you track your opponents .
Aside from those additions , the biggest change appears to be a new quest structure .
Here ’ s how developer Epic describes it : As a hunter , it ’ s your duty to help the Island ’ s characters in their unstable new reality .
Take on their quests and bounties , get intel on your surroundings , or hire them to be your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiate ?
Challenge them to a duel and reap the rewards .
The new characters only accept one form of payment : bars !
Earn bars by completing quests and bounties , eliminating players , or finding hidden stashes around the Island .
Spend your earned bars on new exotic weapons , upgrades , intel , services , and more .
Epic has also teased “ even more hunters from the realities beyond , ” suggesting that additional licensed characters are on the way .
Considering the company has worked with everyone from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NFL to musicians like Travis Scott and Marshmello , those “ hunters ” could be just about anyone .
The update isn ’ t live yet , but typically Fortnite seasons launch at around 3AM ET .

Help for Hire
As a hunter, it’s your duty to help the Island’s characters in their unstable new reality. Take on their quests and bounties, get intel on your surroundings, or hire them to be your ally. Don’t want to negotiate? Challenge them to a duel and reap the rewards.
Spend your wages
The new characters only accept one form of payment: bars! Earn bars by completing quests and bounties, eliminating players, or finding hidden stashes around the Island. Spend your earned bars on new exotic weapons, upgrades, intel, services, and more.


theverge--2020-12-02--Verizon’s Galaxy S20 models are the first to get Android 11 and One UI 3.0

Verizon revealed this morning that Samsung ’ s Galaxy S20 lineup will be the first Samsung phones to receive Android 11 and Samsung ’ s One UI 3.0 in the US , and now the software has already started trickling out to customers , according to Droid Life .
One UI 3.0 has been in public beta for the last two months , but this marks the official release of the final software .
One UI 3.0 has the messaging , notifications and security features of Android 11 , along with some add-ons specific to One UI .
Samsung has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take screenshots , and double-tap the screen to put your phone to sleep , to name a few , but if you want a more exhaustive list of all of the One UI 3.0 changes , you can check out this roundup at Android Police .
Outside the US , the international launch of One UI 3.0 also seems to be spinning up as well .
Android Police says that Samsung sent a full schedule of release dates to users in Egypt , with the flagship S20 line receiving Android 11 and One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though after the US .
According to the schedule , the next phones to receive the update will be the Note 20 , Z Fold , Note 10 , and S10 phones in January 2021 .
The update will take some time to hit every Samsung phone that supports it you ’ re using a Galaxy A10 , A20 or A30S , don ’ t expect to see it before August .
When we reviewed Android 11 in September , we appreciated all its added features for managing the complexity of modern Android @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fragmentation , as Google and Samsung ’ s takes on Android have started to diverge yet again .
Samsung was known for taking a long time to release updates , like when it took five whole months to send out Android Pie .
But that ’ s changed over the years as it ’ s gotten better at managing its timeline .
Last year ’ s Android 10 update took three months to hit the first phones , and that ’ s what we ’ re seeing with Android 11 this year too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Samsung is the largest smartphone vendor globally , and the largest producer of Android phones in the US .
That means the widespread adoption of new features largely relies on the company choosing to include them in new versions of One UI .
From our early preview , it seems like the most important bits of Android 11 have made it into One UI 3.0 ; but when it comes to Google ’ s other Android projects , Samsung might not have as much to gain .

Verizon revealed this morning that Samsung’s Galaxy S20 lineup will be the first Samsung phones to receive Android 11 and Samsung’s One UI 3.0 in the US, and now the software has already started trickling out to customers, according to Droid Life. One UI 3.0 has been in public beta for the last two months, but this marks the official release of the final software.
One UI 3.0 has the messaging, notifications and security features of Android 11, along with some add-ons specific to One UI. Samsung has added easier ways to access widgets, take screenshots, and double-tap the screen to put your phone to sleep, to name a few, but if you want a more exhaustive list of all of the One UI 3.0 changes, you can check out this roundup at Android Police.
An example of the new lock screen and notifications shade in One UI 3.0. Image: Samsung
Outside the US, the international launch of One UI 3.0 also seems to be spinning up as well. Android Police says that Samsung sent a full schedule of release dates to users in Egypt, with the flagship S20 line receiving Android 11 and One UI 3.0 some time in December, though after the US. According to the schedule, the next phones to receive the update will be the Note 20, Z Fold, Note 10, and S10 phones in January 2021. The update will take some time to hit every Samsung phone that supports it you’re using a Galaxy A10, A20 or A30S, don’t expect to see it before August.
When we reviewed Android 11 in September, we appreciated all its added features for managing the complexity of modern Android phones, but noted the possibility for fragmentation, as Google and Samsung’s takes on Android have started to diverge yet again. Samsung was known for taking a long time to release updates, like when it took five whole months to send out Android Pie. But that’s changed over the years as it’s gotten better at managing its timeline. Last year’s Android 10 update took three months to hit the first phones, and that’s what we’re seeing with Android 11 this year too.


theverge--2020-12-02--If you’ve got an older iPhone, your FaceTime calls just got better

When Apple released iOS 14.2 last month , it didn ’ t mention that FaceTime calls would now be in 1080p for older iPhones .
As MacMagazine notes , Apple has updated the product comparison pages of the iPhones 8 , X , XR , XS , SE , and 11 ( including the Max and Pro versions ) to show that they now support FaceTime at 1080p over Wi-Fi , as opposed to before when they only supported 720p .
Calls made over cellular will still be at the lower resolution , but if you ’ re FaceTiming over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the update .
That is , unless both callers had the iPhone 12 , which has had 1080p FaceTime calls from the start ( including over cellular if you ’ re on 5G ) .
My sister has an iPhone 8 with the update , so I called her up on FaceTime .
I had her take a screenshot when we were calling over Wi-Fi , then had her switch to cellular and take another screenshot for comparison .
For good measure , I also took screenshots on my iPhone 12 Mini to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end .
You can judge for yourself if you can notice any differences .
I ’ ve worked in video all my life , and the difference between the two is pretty striking to me , at least on her end .
On my end the difference is a little noticeable , but I don ’ t think I ’ d be able to tell at a glance if the video coming from her phone was in full HD .
Part of this could be that , while her phone is streaming to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ iPhone 8 still has the 7MP FaceTime camera , as opposed to the 12MP camera found on the iPhone 11 and later .
Of course , whether you see a difference depends on how sensitive you are to changes in video quality , or how good your eyesight is .
It ’ s unclear why Apple didn ’ t include this feature in the changelog for the update , given that it ’ s on the iPhone product and comparison pages .
Nevertheless , it ’ s a nice bonus given that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays over video call in order to stay safe .
Mom and dad will be able to see the kids ’ smiles a little better , and when you can ’ t be together you might be surprised at the difference a seemingly small jump in clarity can make .

When Apple released iOS 14.2 last month, it didn’t mention that FaceTime calls would now be in 1080p for older iPhones. As MacMagazine notes, Apple has updated the product comparison pages of the iPhones 8, X, XR, XS, SE, and 11 (including the Max and Pro versions) to show that they now support FaceTime at 1080p over Wi-Fi, as opposed to before when they only supported 720p.
Calls made over cellular will still be at the lower resolution, but if you’re FaceTiming over Wi-Fi you may notice increased clarity after the update. That is, unless both callers had the iPhone 12, which has had 1080p FaceTime calls from the start (including over cellular if you’re on 5G).
My sister has an iPhone 8 with the update, so I called her up on FaceTime. I had her take a screenshot when we were calling over Wi-Fi, then had her switch to cellular and take another screenshot for comparison. For good measure, I also took screenshots on my iPhone 12 Mini to compare what it looked like on my end. You can judge for yourself if you can notice any differences.
Left: screenshot of a 720p call over cellular on the iPhone 8 | Right: screenshot of the 1080p call over Wi-Fi
Left: screenshot of a 720p call over cellular on the iPhone 12 Mini | Right: screenshot of the 1080p call over Wi-Fi
I’ve worked in video all my life, and the difference between the two is pretty striking to me, at least on her end. On my end the difference is a little noticeable, but I don’t think I’d be able to tell at a glance if the video coming from her phone was in full HD. Part of this could be that, while her phone is streaming to me at an increased resolution, the iPhone 8 still has the 7MP FaceTime camera, as opposed to the 12MP camera found on the iPhone 11 and later. Of course, whether you see a difference depends on how sensitive you are to changes in video quality, or how good your eyesight is.
The iOS 14.2 changelog, with no mention of the FaceTime improvement


theverge--2020-12-02--You can now record footage from Ecobee’s camera to Apple servers, but you may want to keep their app

Ecobee ’ s SmartCamera has received a firmware update that may interest Apple users who are feeling a little burnt-out on subscriptions .
The camera , which doubled as an Alexa speaker when it launched this April , generally has the standard smart camera features : you can stream video from it to your phone for free , and with a $ 5-a-month subscription you can have it record video and notify you of any movement ( or just human movement , if you prefer ) .
But today ’ s update adds Apple HomeKit Secure Video support , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to record and store that footage .
If you ’ re a little unfamiliar with the service , you ’ re probably not alone .
HomeKit Secure Video was launched at WWDC in June of 2019 , but so far only a handful of cameras support it .
Like Ecobee ’ s service , it lets you stream video to your iOS devices for free , provided you have an Apple TV , HomePod , or stay-at-home iPad that can act as a HomeKit hub .
If you want to record video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Apple ’ s 200GB iCloud subscription , which costs $ 2.99 a month .
But that ’ s cheaper than Ecobee ’ s service , and also includes extra space for your iCloud backups , Apple Photo Library , etc .
You won ’ t have to worry about all that recorded footage eating up your iCloud storage .
As a HomeKit Secure Video user myself , I can tell you that Apple doesn ’ t count the video towards your storage limit ( though the service only keeps recorded clips for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s 14 days ) .
If you already have a device that can act as a hub , $ 2.99 a month versus $ 5 a month may seem like a good deal , and if you already pay for extra iCloud storage the service is included in your bill .
It ’ s a bit of a harder sell if you also have to buy an Apple TV , HomePod , or iPad , though .
If you want to record more than one camera , you ’ ll also see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9.99-a-month 2TB iCloud storage plan to record up to 5 cameras ( Ecobee or otherwise ) , which is the same price you ’ ll pay for unlimited recording on multiple Ecobee cameras .
Before deciding to switch to HomeKit and ditch the Ecobee app , you should know that Ecobee tells The Verge that Apple ’ s Home app doesn ’ t support the camera ’ s ability to pan and tilt ( other HomeKit cameras have the same limitation , too ) .
You might want to keep the Ecobee app @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cheaper HomeKit camera to begin with .
I personally use Homekit Secure Video to manage my Logitech Circle 2 , and it works well for its primary purpose : not having to pay an extra monthly fee to see what terrible disaster my cat has caused during the night .

Ecobee’s SmartCamera has received a firmware update that may interest Apple users who are feeling a little burnt-out on subscriptions. The camera, which doubled as an Alexa speaker when it launched this April, generally has the standard smart camera features: you can stream video from it to your phone for free, and with a $5-a-month subscription you can have it record video and notify you of any movement (or just human movement, if you prefer). But today’s update adds Apple HomeKit Secure Video support, and it may give you another, cheaper way to record and store that footage.
If you’re a little unfamiliar with the service, you’re probably not alone. HomeKit Secure Video was launched at WWDC in June of 2019, but so far only a handful of cameras support it. Like Ecobee’s service, it lets you stream video to your iOS devices for free, provided you have an Apple TV, HomePod, or stay-at-home iPad that can act as a HomeKit hub.
If you want to record video, you’ll need to pay for Apple’s 200GB iCloud subscription, which costs $2.99 a month. But that’s cheaper than Ecobee’s service, and also includes extra space for your iCloud backups, Apple Photo Library, etc. You won’t have to worry about all that recorded footage eating up your iCloud storage. As a HomeKit Secure Video user myself, I can tell you that Apple doesn’t count the video towards your storage limit (though the service only keeps recorded clips for 10 days, as opposed to Ecobee’s 14 days).
If you already have a device that can act as a hub, $2.99 a month versus $5 a month may seem like a good deal, and if you already pay for extra iCloud storage the service is included in your bill. It’s a bit of a harder sell if you also have to buy an Apple TV, HomePod, or iPad, though. If you want to record more than one camera, you’ll also see less savings: Apple requires the $9.99-a-month 2TB iCloud storage plan to record up to 5 cameras (Ecobee or otherwise), which is the same price you’ll pay for unlimited recording on multiple Ecobee cameras.
Before deciding to switch to HomeKit and ditch the Ecobee app, you should know that Ecobee tells The Verge that Apple’s Home app doesn’t support the camera’s ability to pan and tilt (other HomeKit cameras have the same limitation, too). You might want to keep the Ecobee app around for that, or buy a cheaper HomeKit camera to begin with. I personally use Homekit Secure Video to manage my Logitech Circle 2, and it works well for its primary purpose: not having to pay an extra monthly fee to see what terrible disaster my cat has caused during the night.


theverge--2020-12-02--Climate change is already a disaster to health, doctors say

Dangerously high temperatures put hundreds of thousands of people ’ s health and livelihoods at risk every year , and a major new report shows how much the threat has already grown in a warming world .
Among other alarming statistics , heat-related deaths among older adults grew by nearly 54 percent between 2000 and 2018 , the report finds .
The sweeping health and climate change report was published today in the prominent medical journal The Lancet .
The report was produced by more than 100 experts from academia , the World Health Organization , and other UN agencies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change will not only reshape life in the future , but it is actively endangering lives now .
Health care providers already see themselves treating a climate crisis .
“ We don ’ t want our health system to be overwhelmed.
” Doctors held back tears during a briefing with reporters when asked to reflect on the results of the report and how it connected to their experiences in emergency rooms as the COVID-19 pandemic spread around the world .
“ It ’ s been a really , really hard year , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ physician and co-author of the study , before taking a long pause to collect himself .
“ We see really catastrophic impacts that are very distressing to us.
” Heatwaves and other natural disasters were particularly dangerous this year , as emergency responders and health care systems struggled to handle the pandemic .
Experts fear that climate-related disasters could similarly overwhelm hospitals in the future .
“ We really implore people to learn with us from our experience this year , and try and avoid the worst , ” Hess said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system to be overwhelmed by climate change impacts , and we know what we need to do to stop this.
” The report , while covering a sweeping range of health threats from hunger to pollution , included brand-new findings on how many more lives have been taken by extreme heat .
The number of heat-related deaths globally in 2018 reached an alarming 296,000 — and that ’ s just among people over the age of 65 , who are among the most vulnerable to heat illness .
China , India , Japan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths among older adults .
In the US , heat-related mortality has nearly doubled for this demographic over the past 20 years , reaching a record 19,000 deaths in 2018 .
Heat-related mortality has nearly doubled for this demographic People who work outside are also more vulnerable to heatwaves .
Staying inside during a heatwave is often a healthier choice .
But not working when it ’ s too hot outside comes with costs , too .
US workers in the service , manufacturing , agriculture , and construction sectors likely lost $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the report estimates .
Globally , people worked 302 billion hours less in 2019 because of scorching temperatures — 103 billion more hours than were lost in 2000 .
Rising temperatures have also triggered more wildfires , which poses another set of health threats .
Globally , the risk of people being exposed to a wildfire grew in a majority of the world ’ s countries in recent years when compared to the period between 2001 and 2004 .
The US saw one of the biggest increases in risk , with a 19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That means more people are breathing in more soot and pollution from the blazes .
Fortunately , other studies have shown how taking ambitious action on climate change can save thousands of lives .
“ We don ’ t want to have regret that we didn ’ t do everything we could in order to prevent what we know is coming , ” says Renee Salas , an emergency medicine doctor and lead author of a policy brief accompanying today ’ s new report .
“ That ’ s why we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ listen to the science .
Let the science guide us , and prevent the most catastrophic outcomes that could lie ahead if we don ’ t do something .
”

Dangerously high temperatures put hundreds of thousands of people’s health and livelihoods at risk every year, and a major new report shows how much the threat has already grown in a warming world. Among other alarming statistics, heat-related deaths among older adults grew by nearly 54 percent between 2000 and 2018, the report finds.
The sweeping health and climate change report was published today in the prominent medical journal The Lancet. The report was produced by more than 100 experts from academia, the World Health Organization, and other UN agencies. The report offers proof that climate change will not only reshape life in the future, but it is actively endangering lives now. Health care providers already see themselves treating a climate crisis.
“We don’t want our health system to be overwhelmed.”
Doctors held back tears during a briefing with reporters when asked to reflect on the results of the report and how it connected to their experiences in emergency rooms as the COVID-19 pandemic spread around the world. “It’s been a really, really hard year,” said Jeremy Hess, an emergency medicine physician and co-author of the study, before taking a long pause to collect himself. “We see really catastrophic impacts that are very distressing to us.” Heatwaves and other natural disasters were particularly dangerous this year, as emergency responders and health care systems struggled to handle the pandemic. Experts fear that climate-related disasters could similarly overwhelm hospitals in the future.
“We really implore people to learn with us from our experience this year, and try and avoid the worst,” Hess said. “We don’t want our health system to be overwhelmed by climate change impacts, and we know what we need to do to stop this.”
The report, while covering a sweeping range of health threats from hunger to pollution, included brand-new findings on how many more lives have been taken by extreme heat. The number of heat-related deaths globally in 2018 reached an alarming 296,000 — and that’s just among people over the age of 65, who are among the most vulnerable to heat illness. China, India, Japan, and central Europe had the most deaths among older adults. In the US, heat-related mortality has nearly doubled for this demographic over the past 20 years, reaching a record 19,000 deaths in 2018.
Heat-related mortality has nearly doubled for this demographic
People who work outside are also more vulnerable to heatwaves. Staying inside during a heatwave is often a healthier choice. But not working when it’s too hot outside comes with costs, too. US workers in the service, manufacturing, agriculture, and construction sectors likely lost $45 billion in earnings in 2015, the report estimates. Globally, people worked 302 billion hours less in 2019 because of scorching temperatures — 103 billion more hours than were lost in 2000.
Rising temperatures have also triggered more wildfires, which poses another set of health threats. Globally, the risk of people being exposed to a wildfire grew in a majority of the world’s countries in recent years when compared to the period between 2001 and 2004. The US saw one of the biggest increases in risk, with a 19 percent rise in daily exposures to wildfires. That means more people are breathing in more soot and pollution from the blazes.


theverge--2020-12-02--Google News will allow free access to paywalled articles from news sites

As part of its $ 1 billion investment in partnerships with news publishers , Google will start paying for some paywalled content for its News Showcase program .
News Showcase , a new addition to Google News that launched in October , displays story panels curated by publishers — but its not available in the US yet .
News Showcase will “ start offering people access to paywalled content in partnership with select news publishers , ” says a Google blog post .
Google will pay partners for limited access to paywalled content .
To access that content , users @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual publishers .
Users in the US shouldn ’ t get too excited about free articles just yet .
Google lists partnerships with publishers in several countries , but the US is not currently on the list .
News Showcase went live in October in Brazil and Germany .
Publications in other countries , including Argentina , Canada , France , UK , and Australia , have since signed on .
“ Conversations are underway in a number of other countries , ” Google says .
Google also announced a new kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ display curated lists of important articles of the day .
These selections will appear in user ’ s For You feeds , as well as a newly dedicated area within the Newsstand on Google News .
News Showcase was first launched for the Google News app on Android , and is now available on iOS .
Google says it will be coming soon to news.google.com and Google Discover .

As part of its $1 billion investment in partnerships with news publishers, Google will start paying for some paywalled content for its News Showcase program. News Showcase, a new addition to Google News that launched in October, displays story panels curated by publishers — but its not available in the US yet.
News Showcase will “start offering people access to paywalled content in partnership with select news publishers,” says a Google blog post. Google will pay partners for limited access to paywalled content. To access that content, users will still have to register with the individual publishers.
Users in the US shouldn’t get too excited about free articles just yet. Google lists partnerships with publishers in several countries, but the US is not currently on the list. News Showcase went live in October in Brazil and Germany. Publications in other countries, including Argentina, Canada, France, UK, and Australia, have since signed on. “Conversations are underway in a number of other countries,” Google says.
A News Showcase panel. Image: Google
Google also announced a new kind of story panel, enabling individual publishers to display curated lists of important articles of the day. These selections will appear in user’s For You feeds, as well as a newly dedicated area within the Newsstand on Google News.


theverge--2020-12-02--Chevy Bolt batteries were catching fire, and now there’s a class action lawsuit

A class action lawsuit was filed against General Motors alleging that the Chevy Bolt ’ s battery is “ prone to burst into flames.
” The lawsuit comes on the heels of GM announcing that it was recalling 68,000 Bolts over a malfunctioning battery .
The lawsuit , which was filed in Northern District of Illinois , claims that the Bolt ’ s battery is defective and dangerous .
Specifically , when the batteries in the electric vehicle are charged to full , or very close to full , they pose a risk of fire .
The lawsuit accuses the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and “ knowingly introducing defective vehicles into the marketplace and defrauding consumers across the country.
” The plaintiffs are seeking monetary damages .
“ Knowingly introducing defective vehicles into the marketplace and defrauding consumers across the country ” There have been at least five incidents of fires involving Bolts with fully charged or almost fully charged batteries , the Detroit News recently reports .
Three of those fires are under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration , which oversees vehicle defects .
GM has found two reports of injuries due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 68,667 Chevy Bolts on November 13th .
While the investigation continues , GM said it has developed software that will limit vehicle charging to 90 percent of full capacity to prevent future incidents .
Chevy dealerships have been tasked with updating their customers ’ vehicle battery software beginning on November 17th to limit the maximum state of charge to 90 percent .
The plaintiff ’ s attorneys argue that the software patch renders the Bolt less effective .
“ GM ’ s only purported ‘ fix ’ to reduce the risk of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the maximum state of charge to approximately 90 percent battery capacity , thereby reducing the amount of mileage that these vehicles can otherwise travel on a full charge , ” the attorneys said in a statement .
The plaintiffs also accuse GM of exaggerating the Bolt ’ s capabilities The plaintiffs also accuse GM of exaggerating the Bolt ’ s capabilities .
The automaker says the Bolt ’ s battery capacity is 60 kWh , while the plaintiffs claim it is actually 57 kWh .
The lawsuit was filed by Bolt owner Andres @ @ @ @ @ @ @ class action status .
“ We are in the midst of executing a safety recall on certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Bolt EVs , ” a GM spokesperson said .
“ We are not going to comment on any related litigation.
” GM , which owns Chevy , Cadillac , and GMC , is the latest automaker to issue a voluntary recall due to battery defects .
Last year , Audi recalled over 500 E-Tron SUVs , the company ’ s first all-electric car , because of a risk for battery fires .
China ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ES8 electric SUVs after multiple reports of battery fires surfaced in 2019 .
There ’ s no evidence that electric vehicles catch fire at a rate that ’ s any different from internal combustion cars , but the topic has received increased scrutiny as more EVs hit the road .
First responders are even being trained to handle EV battery fires since they can ’ t be extinguished via some traditional methods .

A class action lawsuit was filed against General Motors alleging that the Chevy Bolt’s battery is “prone to burst into flames.” The lawsuit comes on the heels of GM announcing that it was recalling 68,000 Bolts over a malfunctioning battery.
The lawsuit, which was filed in Northern District of Illinois, claims that the Bolt’s battery is defective and dangerous. Specifically, when the batteries in the electric vehicle are charged to full, or very close to full, they pose a risk of fire. The lawsuit accuses the company of fraud, negligent practices, and “knowingly introducing defective vehicles into the marketplace and defrauding consumers across the country.” The plaintiffs are seeking monetary damages.
“Knowingly introducing defective vehicles into the marketplace and defrauding consumers across the country”
There have been at least five incidents of fires involving Bolts with fully charged or almost fully charged batteries, the Detroit News recently reports. Three of those fires are under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which oversees vehicle defects. GM has found two reports of injuries due to smoke inhalation. GM issued a recall for 68,667 Chevy Bolts on November 13th.
While the investigation continues, GM said it has developed software that will limit vehicle charging to 90 percent of full capacity to prevent future incidents. Chevy dealerships have been tasked with updating their customers’ vehicle battery software beginning on November 17th to limit the maximum state of charge to 90 percent.
The plaintiff’s attorneys argue that the software patch renders the Bolt less effective. “GM’s only purported ‘fix’ to reduce the risk of fire is a software update that limits the maximum state of charge to approximately 90 percent battery capacity, thereby reducing the amount of mileage that these vehicles can otherwise travel on a full charge,” the attorneys said in a statement.
The plaintiffs also accuse GM of exaggerating the Bolt’s capabilities
The plaintiffs also accuse GM of exaggerating the Bolt’s capabilities. The automaker says the Bolt’s battery capacity is 60 kWh, while the plaintiffs claim it is actually 57 kWh. The lawsuit was filed by Bolt owner Andres Torres and seeks to be certified for class action status.
“We are in the midst of executing a safety recall on certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Bolt EVs,” a GM spokesperson said. “We are not going to comment on any related litigation.”
GM, which owns Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC, is the latest automaker to issue a voluntary recall due to battery defects. Last year, Audi recalled over 500 E-Tron SUVs, the company’s first all-electric car, because of a risk for battery fires. China’s NIO recalled nearly 5,000 of its ES8 electric SUVs after multiple reports of battery fires surfaced in 2019.


theverge--2020-12-02--Amazon’s Alexa can now intuitively switch between more languages

Amazon is updating Alexa to allow it to automatically switch between more languages .
The update comes after a flurry of small Alexa additions over the course of November , increasing functionality and making Alexa more useful .
Alexa first gained the ability to automatically respond to requests in English and other languages in 2019 .
However , you were limited to only two languages at a time .
That hasn ’ t changed , but now users can enable a few more languages in the Alexa app .
Alexa can speak German , French , Canadian-French , Japanese , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all paired with English .
Additionally , users can switch languages without pulling up the app by saying “ Alexa , speak Spanish ” to set a new primary language or “ Alexa , speak Spanish and English ” to set up a pair to switch between .
Alexa has also gained the ability to respond to what Amazon calls “ latent goals.
” This basically means that Alexa can address requests that are “ hidden ” within or naturally follow an original question .
To borrow Amazon ’ s example , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take to steep tea ?
” then Alexa can assume that the latent goal is setting a tea timer , respond “ Five minutes is a good place to start , ” and follow that up with “ Would you like me to set a timer for five minutes ?
” Besides these two major changes , Alexa has gained the ability to include Fire TV commands in Alexa routines .
So you can say “ Alexa , I ’ m grabbing a drink , ” and Alexa will know to pause your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And to contribute to the ever-growing Alexa creep across products and services , you can now also use the assistant in the Amazon Shopping app to search for products and status updates on orders hands-free .
These are just a few of the skill-oriented changes to Alexa that Amazon rolled out in November .
Echo devices as a whole have been updated , too .
The Echo Frames are now widely available , the Echo Buds have new Alexa-enabled workout skills , and Echo Shows now have access to Amazon ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ones .

Amazon is updating Alexa to allow it to automatically switch between more languages. The update comes after a flurry of small Alexa additions over the course of November, increasing functionality and making Alexa more useful.
Alexa first gained the ability to automatically respond to requests in English and other languages in 2019. However, you were limited to only two languages at a time. That hasn’t changed, but now users can enable a few more languages in the Alexa app. Alexa can speak German, French, Canadian-French, Japanese, Spanish, US-Spanish, and Hindi — all paired with English. Additionally, users can switch languages without pulling up the app by saying “Alexa, speak Spanish” to set a new primary language or “Alexa, speak Spanish and English” to set up a pair to switch between.
Alexa can anticipate “latent goals”
Alexa has also gained the ability to respond to what Amazon calls “latent goals.” This basically means that Alexa can address requests that are “hidden” within or naturally follow an original question. To borrow Amazon’s example, if you ask “How long does it take to steep tea?” then Alexa can assume that the latent goal is setting a tea timer, respond “Five minutes is a good place to start,” and follow that up with “Would you like me to set a timer for five minutes?”
Besides these two major changes, Alexa has gained the ability to include Fire TV commands in Alexa routines. So you can say “Alexa, I’m grabbing a drink,” and Alexa will know to pause your show and turn on your kitchen lights. And to contribute to the ever-growing Alexa creep across products and services, you can now also use the assistant in the Amazon Shopping app to search for products and status updates on orders hands-free.


theverge--2020-12-02--Zens’ new Modular wireless chargers offer a mix-and-match setup

Zens has a new set of wireless chargers out called the Zens Modular .
They are designed to fix the rigidity of most combination wireless chargers by letting users customize their own bespoke charging setup to suit their needs .
The Zens Modular system is divided into two halves : main stations and extensions .
The main station ( as the name implies ) is the primary hub for your wireless charging setup and is the only thing that you ’ ll have to plug into the wall .
Zens has three different main station options : the €99,99 / @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is a flat pad that can charge two devices at once at up to 15W each ; the €69,99 / $ 84.81 Modular Stand Wireless Charger , a single charger that offers a stand form factor and can charge at 15W ; and the €59,99 / $ 72.69 Modular Single Wireless Charger , a standard flat pad that also offers 15W charging .
All three products are rated for both Apple ’ s 7.5W charging and Samsung Fast Charge , too .
But while the main station hubs are relatively standard wireless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system ’ s extension hubs that make things interesting .
Using a magnetic connector , you can clip on additional charging pads to a main charger , adding multiple Apple Watch or wireless charging pads as you need ( up to four total ) .
To start , Zens is offering two extensions : a €39,99 / $ 48.46 Modular Single Wireless Charger Extension block that adds a 10W charging pad and a €49,99 / $ 60.57 Apple Watch module for Apple ’ s smartwatches .
There are a few limitations : only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as add-ons ( so you can ’ t chain together multiple stand chargers or multiple double pads ) .
The new chargers also don ’ t use the multi-coil technology that Zens debuted with its excellent Liberty charger earlier this year , so you ’ ll still need to make sure you ’ re aligning your phone correctly .
The Zens chargers are also pretty pricey for what they offer , but the customizable system and sheer number of devices you can charge off a single plug might make it worthwhile for customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up multiple devices frequently .
The new Zens Modular chargers are available now through the company ’ s website .

Zens has a new set of wireless chargers out called the Zens Modular. They are designed to fix the rigidity of most combination wireless chargers by letting users customize their own bespoke charging setup to suit their needs.
The Zens Modular system is divided into two halves: main stations and extensions. The main station (as the name implies) is the primary hub for your wireless charging setup and is the only thing that you’ll have to plug into the wall. Zens has three different main station options: the €99,99 / $121.16 Modular Dual Wireless Charger, which is a flat pad that can charge two devices at once at up to 15W each; the €69,99 / $84.81 Modular Stand Wireless Charger, a single charger that offers a stand form factor and can charge at 15W; and the €59,99 / $72.69 Modular Single Wireless Charger, a standard flat pad that also offers 15W charging. All three products are rated for both Apple’s 7.5W charging and Samsung Fast Charge, too.
But while the main station hubs are relatively standard wireless chargers, it’s the Modular system’s extension hubs that make things interesting. Using a magnetic connector, you can clip on additional charging pads to a main charger, adding multiple Apple Watch or wireless charging pads as you need (up to four total).
Image: Zens
To start, Zens is offering two extensions: a €39,99 / $48.46 Modular Single Wireless Charger Extension block that adds a 10W charging pad and a €49,99 / $60.57 Apple Watch module for Apple’s smartwatches.
There are a few limitations: only those two extension pads can be used as add-ons (so you can’t chain together multiple stand chargers or multiple double pads). The new chargers also don’t use the multi-coil technology that Zens debuted with its excellent Liberty charger earlier this year, so you’ll still need to make sure you’re aligning your phone correctly. The Zens chargers are also pretty pricey for what they offer, but the customizable system and sheer number of devices you can charge off a single plug might make it worthwhile for customers who want to be able to charge up multiple devices frequently.


theverge--2020-12-02--Living the full Cyberpunk 2077 lifestyle will cost you over $2,000 and your dignity

We are eight days away from the release of Cyberpunk 2077 , but with all of the brand tie-ins for the upcoming roleplaying game , you could mistakenly think it was already out .
Throughout the year , developer CD Projekt Red has teamed up with multiple companies to create a slew of cyberpunk-themed items from gaming mice to game controllers and , yes , even energy drinks .
The target audience : people who love both the color yellow and dystopian motifs so much that they ’ d be willing to look at them , wear them , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The good news for Cyberpunk 2077 fans is there are plenty of ways to show off your fandom , from the official CDPR “ samurai ” varsity jacket to the profoundly hideous Cyberpunk-themed Secretlab Omega gaming chair .
The bad news is it ’ s all inexplicably expensive — and , oh yeah , a bit hideous .
A lot of these collaborations are very on-brand , I must say .
They all have a futuristic vibe that could appeal to the right kind of fan steeped in Blade Runner vibes and synthwave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this stuff quite ugly .
But it ’ s certainly not beyond the pale when it comes to video game marketing , and I ’ m sure there are plenty of people out there excited enough for Cyberpunk 2077 to come out ( after multiple delays ) that they want to go all in on celebrating the launch .
So I found all of the Cyberpunk brand tie-ins I could because I was curious to know how much it would cost to be a true cyberpunk .
In short , it will cost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this stuff is either out of stock , discontinued entirely , or limited units were made .
( I am looking at you , Cyberpunk 2077 limited-edition Xbox One X bundle . )
Either way , here are a few brand tie-ins if you want to show your love for Cyberpunk 2077 .
One of the more expensive brand tie-ins , the OnePlus 8T is a good phone with a 120Hz screen and surprisingly fast charging .
The entire Cyberpunk 2077 theme is neat , and there is a subtle touch of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look interesting .
SecretLab chairs are pretty comfy ( but very expensive ) .
Still , you get a lot of bang for your buck .
Though , to be honest , I think the majority yellow design makes this chair a bit off-putting and can really stick out like a sore thumb .
This is actually one of the cooler limited edition Cyberpunk 2077 items .
At the time it was produced , there were 45,000 units , so this is certainly a rare find for its initial retail price .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and custom panels .
Honestly , in the right context , you could tell me this was a car featured in Cyberpunk 2077 , and I probably would believe you .
To be fair , the Razer Viper Ultimate is a good gaming mouse with an ambidextrous design .
Oh , and let ’ s not forget the mouse pad .
Yes , you can also buy a Razer mouse pad with a matching phone case for Apple and Samsung phones .
This XXL mousepad will look very nice if you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aesthetic on your PC gaming desk .
For $ 40 , you can get this obnoxious yellow mouse pad with the game ’ s logo printed in the center or the classier samurai skull over a black background .
( I vote for the latter . )
I am not sure why there are phone cases .
Okay , jokes aside : I kind of like the phone cases .
If you ’ re going to deck out your entire PC gaming setup with Cyberpunk 2077 as the main theme , you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ headset .
This headset would also work with a PS4 , Switch , or Android but would also pair nicely with the Razer Viper gaming mouse I mentioned earlier .
Also , I would show you a Cyberpunk 2077 gaming keyboard .
Unfortunately , the only thing I could find that existed in the similar realm of these other brand tie-ins was a Whirlwind FX mechanical keyboard , and it was only a giveaway .
I like varsity jackets .
( I was a two-sport athlete in high school and a former division @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Aside from being good winter jackets , they are also very expensive .
Also , why is there ( usually ) only one letter on them ?
Well , now you can buy this Cyberpunk 2077-themed jacket , which has seven ( count them ) letters printed plus a cool samurai skull on the back .
Keeping with the “ back to school ” vibe , here ’ s a $ 112 backpack that also has Cyberpunk 2077 .
Looks like a very spacious backpack ; wonder how many Cyberpunk 2077 gaming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you can , stay inside as much as possible .
But if you do decide to go outside , remember to wear your face mask .
If you really want people to know you like Cyberpunk 2077 , here ’ s a $ 13 cover you can wear on your face while you do .
Certain Rockstar Energy drink cans have Cyberpunk 2077 printed , and if you go to the Rockstar Energy drink website to enter the code on your can , you can use it to unlock digital rewards and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swag , or if you ’ re really lucky a 1970 Custom Mustang .
To increase your chances of winning , just get yourself a 12-pack .
Of course , there ’ s other Cyberpunk 2077-themed merch you could add , too , but we ’ ve already got the essentials — and if we tally up how much all this would cost , it would set you back roughly $ 2,294 .
That ’ s a lot of money — but hey , if you like Cyberpunk 2077 that much , who @ @ @ @ @

We are eight days away from the release of Cyberpunk 2077, but with all of the brand tie-ins for the upcoming role-playing game, you could mistakenly think it was already out. Throughout the year, developer CD Projekt Red has teamed up with multiple companies to create a slew of cyberpunk-themed items from gaming mice to game controllers and, yes, even energy drinks. On top of that there is a whole world of unofficial tie-ins that you can also show off your fandom with.
Cyberpunk 2077 $ 5 $ 30 83 % off $ 5 $ 5 $ 30 83 % off CD Projekt Red’s much-anticipated Cyberpunk 2077 released in fall 2020. Following a disastrous launch, the team has updated the game several times to improve performance and fix bugs. Recently, patch 1.5 added content and updated the game for improved performance on Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. $5 at Best Buy (Xbox)$5 at Best Buy (PlayStation)
The target audience: people who love both the color yellow and dystopian motifs so much that they’d be willing to look at them, wear them, and even drink them at all times. The good news for Cyberpunk 2077 fans is there are plenty of ways to show off your fandom, from the official CDPR “samurai” varsity jacket to the profoundly hideous Cyberpunk-themed Secretlab Omega gaming chair. The bad news is it’s all inexplicably expensive — and, oh yeah, a bit hideous.
A lot of these collaborations are very on-brand, I must say. They all have a futuristic vibe that could appeal to the right kind of fan steeped in Blade Runner vibes and synthwave aesthetics — although I personally find all this stuff quite ugly. But it’s certainly not beyond the pale when it comes to video game marketing, and I’m sure there are plenty of people out there excited enough for Cyberpunk 2077 to come out (after multiple delays) that they want to go all in on celebrating the launch.
So I found all of the Cyberpunk brand tie-ins I could because I was curious to know how much it would cost to be a true cyberpunk. In short, it will cost a pretty penny — especially considering most of this stuff is either out of stock, discontinued entirely, or limited units were made. (I am looking at you, Cyberpunk 2077 limited-edition Xbox One X bundle.) Either way, here are a few brand tie-ins if you want to show your love for Cyberpunk 2077.
Image: OnePlus (via Weibo)
One of the more expensive brand tie-ins, the OnePlus 8T is a good phone with a 120Hz screen and surprisingly fast charging. The entire Cyberpunk 2077 theme is neat, and there is a subtle touch of striking yellow accents that make the design look interesting.
I think the chair would have been much cooler if the design on the back was on the front. Image: SecretLab
SecretLab chairs are pretty comfy (but very expensive). Still, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Though, to be honest, I think the majority yellow design makes this chair a bit off-putting and can really stick out like a sore thumb.
It’s not the worst limited edition console design I’ve seen. I mean, at least it’s not just a big yellow block. Image: Xbox
This is actually one of the cooler limited edition Cyberpunk 2077 items. At the time it was produced, there were 45,000 units, so this is certainly a rare find for its initial retail price. But that includes glow-in-the-dark accents, laser etching, and custom panels.
Image: Razer
Honestly, in the right context, you could tell me this was a car featured in Cyberpunk 2077, and I probably would believe you. To be fair, the Razer Viper Ultimate is a good gaming mouse with an ambidextrous design.
Well these are interesting to the say the least. Image: Razer
Oh, and let’s not forget the mouse pad. Yes, you can also buy a Razer mouse pad with a matching phone case for Apple and Samsung phones. This XXL mousepad will look very nice if you’re committed to the whole Cyberpunk 2077 aesthetic on your PC gaming desk. For $40, you can get this obnoxious yellow mouse pad with the game’s logo printed in the center or the classier samurai skull over a black background. (I vote for the latter.)
I am not sure why there are phone cases. Okay, jokes aside: I kind of like the phone cases.
Image: SteelSeries
If you’re going to deck out your entire PC gaming setup with Cyberpunk 2077 as the main theme, you’ll need to buy a reliable gaming headset. This headset would also work with a PS4, Switch, or Android but would also pair nicely with the Razer Viper gaming mouse I mentioned earlier.
Also, I would show you a Cyberpunk 2077 gaming keyboard. Unfortunately, the only thing I could find that existed in the similar realm of these other brand tie-ins was a Whirlwind FX mechanical keyboard, and it was only a giveaway.
Image: CD Projekt Red
I like varsity jackets. (I was a two-sport athlete in high school and a former division 1 athlete, thanks for asking.) Aside from being good winter jackets, they are also very expensive. Also, why is there (usually) only one letter on them? Well, now you can buy this Cyberpunk 2077-themed jacket, which has seven (count them) letters printed plus a cool samurai skull on the back.
I am very surprised this is not a banana yellow backpack. Image: CD Projekt Red
Keeping with the “back to school” vibe, here’s a $112 backpack that also has Cyberpunk 2077. Looks like a very spacious backpack; wonder how many Cyberpunk 2077 gaming mice could I put in here?
Yes, you can even show your Cyberpunk 2077 love through a face mask. Image: Amazon
If you can, stay inside as much as possible. But if you do decide to go outside, remember to wear your face mask. If you really want people to know you like Cyberpunk 2077, here’s a $13 cover you can wear on your face while you do.
Gamer fuel for your trip to Night City. Image: Rockstar
Certain Rockstar Energy drink cans have Cyberpunk 2077 printed, and if you go to the Rockstar Energy drink website to enter the code on your can, you can use it to unlock digital rewards and entries for other prizes like Cyberpunk 2077 swag, or if you’re really lucky a 1970 Custom Mustang. To increase your chances of winning, just get yourself a 12-pack.


theverge--2020-12-02--Put Baby Yoda on your wrist with Vodafone and Disney’s Neo smartwatch

European mobile carrier Vodafone has partnered with Disney to launch a new wearable for kids called the Neo .
Vodafone says the Neo combines its technological capabilities with Disney ’ s entertainment chops to offer a wearable that gives kids a sense of independence while letting parents stay in contact .
The Neo ’ s most notable feature is its Disney branding .
The Yves Béhar-designed watch lets kids choose from a collection of “ Sidekicks ” that will hang out on the main clock screen , including The Child / Baby Yoda / Grogu from The Mandalorian , Buzz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mouse .
Vodafone says the Sidekicks will animate throughout the day , and the company plans to add more characters over time at no additional cost .
Besides the injection of Disney charm , the Neo is mostly focused on keeping parents in touch with their kids , with a few added smartwatch features ( though all of this requires a Vodafone subscription ) .
With the watch , parents can call , text , and get updates on their kid ’ s location from the companion Vodafone Smart app .
Parents can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ circle ” of trusted contacts for texting and calling and limit screen time with Quiet Mode .
To boost kid ’ s “ independence , ” the Neo can also receive calendar updates , check the weather , track activity , and take photos with a built-in 5-megapixel camera .
Wearables for kids are not a new category , and plenty of other mobile carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon offer takes on the idea .
Even Apple has gotten into the game with Family Setup in watchOS 7 , which we looked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with smartwatches for kids are twofold : parents have to decide how much of their child ’ s privacy they ’ re willing to sacrifice to keep them safe , and usually , these watches aren ’ t very great in the first place .
Vodafone says the Neo won ’ t be released in Europe until early 2021 , where it should retail for £99 with £7-a-month subscription .
If the Neo ’ s specific Disney wrapper piques your family ’ s interest , you can sign up for the waitlist today @

European mobile carrier Vodafone has partnered with Disney to launch a new wearable for kids called the Neo. Vodafone says the Neo combines its technological capabilities with Disney’s entertainment chops to offer a wearable that gives kids a sense of independence while letting parents stay in contact.
The Neo’s most notable feature is its Disney branding. The Yves Béhar-designed watch lets kids choose from a collection of “Sidekicks” that will hang out on the main clock screen, including The Child / Baby Yoda / Grogu from The Mandalorian, Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story, and Minnie Mouse. Vodafone says the Sidekicks will animate throughout the day, and the company plans to add more characters over time at no additional cost.
An example of the Neo smartwatch with the Vodafone Smart app for controlling privacy settings. Image: Vodafone
Besides the injection of Disney charm, the Neo is mostly focused on keeping parents in touch with their kids, with a few added smartwatch features (though all of this requires a Vodafone subscription). With the watch, parents can call, text, and get updates on their kid’s location from the companion Vodafone Smart app. Parents can use the same app to create a “circle” of trusted contacts for texting and calling and limit screen time with Quiet Mode. To boost kid’s “independence,” the Neo can also receive calendar updates, check the weather, track activity, and take photos with a built-in 5-megapixel camera.
Wearables for kids are not a new category, T-Mobile has its own take, and you can also get your Baby Yoda fix with the GizmoWatch Disney Edition at Verizon. Even Apple has gotten into the game with Family Setup in watchOS 7, which we looked at earlier this year. The problems with smartwatches for kids are twofold: parents have to decide how much of their child’s privacy they’re willing to sacrifice to keep them safe, and usually, these watches aren’t very great in the first place.
Vodafone says the Neo won’t be released in Europe until early 2021, where it should retail for £99 with £7-a-month subscription. If the Neo’s specific Disney wrapper piques your family’s interest, you can sign up for the waitlist today.


theverge--2020-12-03--Google Maps now lets you create Street View photos with just a phone

Google Maps is getting a new update that lets you create Street View photos using just a phone .
Android users with ARCore-compatible devices can now capture imagery and publish it to Google Street View in certain areas .
Google is allowing submissions initially in Toronto , New York , Austin , Nigeria , Indonesia , and Costa Rica .
More regions will support this feature soon , and Google will use this user-generated content when it doesn ’ t have its own Street View imagery available .
“ While our own Street View trekkers and cars have collected more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ miles around the planet , there are still many unmapped parts of the world , ” says Stafford Marquardt , product manager of Google Maps Street View .
“ Where people contribute connected photos , they will appear in the Street View layer on Google Maps as dotted blue lines.
” The new beta feature has been in testing for months , and Google will automatically rotate and position the series of connected photos that are captured in its Street View app for Android .
While users have been able to submit Street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ required a special 360-degree camera .
This new feature just makes use of a standard phone camera .
It opens up the Street View feature to many more areas , including hard to reach places that even Google ’ s Street View trekkers and cars haven ’ t visited .
Google will also use this imagery to update Google Maps with information like new businesses or publicly posted open hours , and the company will apply its standard Street View privacy features to blur out faces and license plates .

Google Maps is getting a new update that lets you create Street View photos using just a phone. Android users with ARCore-compatible devices can now capture imagery and publish it to Google Street View in certain areas. Google is allowing submissions initially in Toronto, New York, Austin, Nigeria, Indonesia, and Costa Rica. More regions will support this feature soon, and Google will use this user-generated content when it doesn’t have its own Street View imagery available.
“While our own Street View trekkers and cars have collected more than 170 billion images from 10 million miles around the planet, there are still many unmapped parts of the world,” says Stafford Marquardt, product manager of Google Maps Street View. “Where people contribute connected photos, they will appear in the Street View layer on Google Maps as dotted blue lines.”
The new Street View feature. Google
The new beta feature has been in testing for months, and Google will automatically rotate and position the series of connected photos that are captured in its Street View app for Android. While users have been able to submit Street View imagery in the past, it required a special 360-degree camera. This new feature just makes use of a standard phone camera.


theverge--2020-12-03--Royole returns with a better folding phone

Remember the first folding phone ?
No , not Samsung ’ s ill-fated original Galaxy Fold — the one that beat it to market .
In hindsight , and honestly in foresight back then as well , Royole ’ s FlexPai was a hurried attention grab that existed solely to attain world-first status .
But it ’ s not like it came out of nowhere ; Royole had been set up several years earlier solely to develop flexible screen technology , so it ’ s understandable that the company would want to get ahead of Samsung to show off what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you will .
Unfortunately , the FlexPai was bad .
But now there ’ s a FlexPai 2 , and it ’ s surprisingly pretty good .
I ’ ve been using a Chinese model for a while and can report that it ’ s a big improvement over the original , with some neat refinements to the design .
Samsung won ’ t have much to worry about , but that ’ s not necessarily the goal here .
Royole doesn ’ t just see itself as a consumer electronics company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brands that see it providing flexible display and sensor technology to the likes of AirBus , Toyota , and Louis Vuitton .
A Royole representative tells The Verge that the company is pleased with the FlexPai 2 ’ s performance in China so far , but wouldn ’ t disclose sales data .
At roughly $ 500 cheaper than Samsung ’ s Galaxy Fold 2 , though , it ’ s worth a look however many units it sells .
Royole also says it plans to announce global availability early next year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full review of the FlexPai 2 — my review unit was loaded with Chinese-only software , so I can ’ t tell you much about the daily-driver experience .
I can , however , tell you that the hardware is quite impressive .
The FlexPai 2 folds the opposite way to Samsung ’ s Galaxy Fold devices ; that ’ s to say that the main screen goes around the outside of the curve rather than the inside , so it remains exposed when the hinge is closed .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Mate X folding phones .
When folded , the FlexPai 2 is about the same size and shape as a passport , while the unfolded screen is comparable to an iPad mini .
You really get three screens in one with the FlexPai 2 , although you only use one at once .
The display is a 7.8-inch 1920 x 1440 4:3 panel which turns into a 5.5-inch 1440 x 900 16:10 panel or a 5.4-inch 1440 x 810 16.9 panel when folded , depending on which half you ’ re looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t fold evenly is because there ’ s a large bezel on one side of the screen that houses the phone ’ s quad cameras .
Build quality is solid , although a slightly thicker plastic gasket on the opposite side of the screen to the cameras betrays the need for a little more durability protection than on your average smartphone .
The phone feels great when unfolded , though , with a 6.8mm-thick slimline metal frame , and the hinge is smooth and torquey , without the awkward rubber concertina of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s new design over Samsung ’ s is that it can be folded tight without leaving a gap between the two halves of the screen .
The disadvantage is apparent in the display .
The OLED panel itself looks decent enough , with good contrast and brightness , and while the resolution isn ’ t class-leading it ’ s sharp enough at 308 ppi .
The problem is that because the screen has a larger bend radius than the Galaxy Fold ’ s , which folds at an acute angle on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visible when the phone is unfolded .
Basically , the crease is much bigger .
I don ’ t find it too distracting , as it ’ s only really visible when light catches it the wrong way .
But you can definitely feel the hinge behind the screen whenever you swipe across the middle , which isn ’ t ideal .
I can ’ t really speak to durability other than to say I haven ’ t seen any problems in my month-plus with the device .
I asked Royole for details @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the “ Cicada Wing ” display , and a representative wouldn ’ t confirm whether it was plastic or glass , only saying it ’ s “ composed of ~100 micro-nano materials.
” They also said it ’ s “ shatterproof and functional after close to two million folds , ” which makes me think it ’ s plastic .
It definitely feels like plastic .
But so does Samsung ’ s “ ultra-thin glass , ” so .
Just know that Royole is not yet the one to make folding screens feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 has high-end specs inside , with a Snapdragon 865 processor , up to 12GB of RAM , and a 4,450mAh battery .
I found performance to be pretty good , with few of the software issues that plagued the original FlexPai whenever you wanted to switch up the orientation .
As I mentioned before , I haven ’ t been able to use this as a primary device because of its onboard software , but Royole ’ s WaterOS does seem to have been improved quite a bit from the original FlexPai @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 1,500 , the FlexPai 2 is still not exactly cheap .
And Royole ’ s status as a newcomer to the mobile industry is another good reason to view the device with suspicion .
But my experience of the hardware has been fairly positive , and Royole ’ s screen technology may well find itself into phones from other companies at some point ; ZTE has been touted as an early partner .
It ’ s still hard to recommend buying a folding phone from anyone , but Royole does deserve some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its initial effort .
The original FlexPai was a hasty attempt at notoriety , but its sequel feels like a much more credible device .
If Royole can nail the software and maybe get the price down a little further for a Western release , it could be worth a look if you ’ re enamored with the form factor .

Remember the first folding phone? No, not Samsung’s ill-fated original Galaxy Fold — the one that beat it to market. In hindsight, and honestly in foresight back then as well, Royole’s FlexPai was a hurried attention grab that existed solely to attain world-first status. But it’s not like it came out of nowhere; Royole had been set up several years earlier solely to develop flexible screen technology, so it’s understandable that the company would want to get ahead of Samsung to show off what it could do. A flex, if you will.
Unfortunately, the FlexPai was bad. But now there’s a FlexPai 2, and it’s surprisingly pretty good. I’ve been using a Chinese model for a while and can report that it’s a big improvement over the original, with some neat refinements to the design. Samsung won’t have much to worry about, but that’s not necessarily the goal here.
Royole doesn’t just see itself as a consumer electronics company. It has partnerships with hundreds of brands that see it providing flexible display and sensor technology to the likes of AirBus, Toyota, and Louis Vuitton. A Royole representative tells The Verge that the company is pleased with the FlexPai 2’s performance in China so far, but wouldn’t disclose sales data. At roughly $500 cheaper than Samsung’s Galaxy Fold 2, though, it’s worth a look however many units it sells.
Royole also says it plans to announce global availability early next year. As such, this isn’t a full review of the FlexPai 2 — my review unit was loaded with Chinese-only software, so I can’t tell you much about the daily-driver experience. I can, however, tell you that the hardware is quite impressive.
When unfolded, the FlexPai 2 is roughly the size of an iPad mini.
The FlexPai 2 runs Royole’s WaterOS Android 10 skin. The FlexPai 2 is about the size of a passport when folded.
The FlexPai 2 folds the opposite way to Samsung’s Galaxy Fold devices; that’s to say that the main screen goes around the outside of the curve rather than the inside, so it remains exposed when the hinge is closed. It’s the same approach seen in Huawei’s Mate X folding phones. When folded, the FlexPai 2 is about the same size and shape as a passport, while the unfolded screen is comparable to an iPad mini.
You really get three screens in one with the FlexPai 2, although you only use one at once. The display is a 7.8-inch 1920 x 1440 4:3 panel which turns into a 5.5-inch 1440 x 900 16:10 panel or a 5.4-inch 1440 x 810 16.9 panel when folded, depending on which half you’re looking at. The reason it doesn’t fold evenly is because there’s a large bezel on one side of the screen that houses the phone’s quad cameras.
Build quality is solid, although a slightly thicker plastic gasket on the opposite side of the screen to the cameras betrays the need for a little more durability protection than on your average smartphone. The phone feels great when unfolded, though, with a 6.8mm-thick slimline metal frame, and the hinge is smooth and torquey, without the awkward rubber concertina of the original FlexPai. One advantage of Royole’s new design over Samsung’s is that it can be folded tight without leaving a gap between the two halves of the screen.
The disadvantage is apparent in the display. The OLED panel itself looks decent enough, with good contrast and brightness, and while the resolution isn’t class-leading it’s sharp enough at 308 ppi. The problem is that because the screen has a larger bend radius than the Galaxy Fold’s, which folds at an acute angle on the inside, more of that crease is visible when the phone is unfolded. Basically, the crease is much bigger. I don’t find it too distracting, as it’s only really visible when light catches it the wrong way. But you can definitely feel the hinge behind the screen whenever you swipe across the middle, which isn’t ideal.
I can’t really speak to durability other than to say I haven’t seen any problems in my month-plus with the device. I asked Royole for details on its own ULT-NSSP material used in the “Cicada Wing” display, and a representative wouldn’t confirm whether it was plastic or glass, only saying it’s “composed of ~100 micro-nano materials.” They also said it’s “shatterproof and functional after close to two million folds,” which makes me think it’s plastic. It definitely feels like plastic. But so does Samsung’s “ultra-thin glass,” so. Just know that Royole is not yet the one to make folding screens feel premium to the touch.
The FlexPai 2 has high-end specs inside, with a Snapdragon 865 processor, up to 12GB of RAM, and a 4,450mAh battery. I found performance to be pretty good, with few of the software issues that plagued the original FlexPai whenever you wanted to switch up the orientation. As I mentioned before, I haven’t been able to use this as a primary device because of its onboard software, but Royole’s WaterOS does seem to have been improved quite a bit from the original FlexPai.
The FlexPai 2’s hinge is much sleeker than the original’s.
At 9,998 yuan, or roughly $1,500, the FlexPai 2 is still not exactly cheap. And Royole’s status as a newcomer to the mobile industry is another good reason to view the device with suspicion. But my experience of the hardware has been fairly positive, and Royole’s screen technology may well find itself into phones from other companies at some point; ZTE has been touted as an early partner.


theverge--2020-12-03--Razer’s new true wireless earbuds have noise cancellation and low latency for mobile games

Razer released its first set of true wireless earbuds in 2019 , with the main appeal being a low-latency mode that made them better suited for mobile gaming .
Now , the company is ready with its second pair , the Hammerhead True Wireless Pro , which go on sale today for $ 199.99 and add active noise cancellation and THX audio certification to the mix .
“ The Hammerhead True Wireless Pro uses hybrid ANC to nullify both external and unwanted internal noise by generating inverse sound waves simultaneously , ” Razer wrote in its press release for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helps there , and Razer has switched to a proper in-ear design — unlike the AirPods-esque open style of the original Hammerhead True Wireless .
( There ’ s a “ quick attention mode ” for piping in outside audio when you want to hear what ’ s happening near you . )
Along with the usual silicone options ( six different sets of them ) , the company is including a set of medium Comply foam ear tips in the box to help you get the most secure , sealed-off fit possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hammerhead True Wireless Pro are rated IPX4 for water and sweat resistance , and Razer says they last up to 20 hours total with the case factored in ; the earbuds can make it through four hours of continuous listening , which is about an hour below competitors like the AirPods Pro and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds .
There ’ s also no wireless charging , which is disappointing to see at this level .
You control the buds with the touch-sensitive Razer logo button on each one .
As for the THX certification @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as frequency range and response are evaluated , and the device must be capable of delivering clear , detailed vocals and deep impactful bass with zero distortion at high volumes.
” The Hammerhead True Wireless Pro feature 10mm drivers and still include a Game Mode that the company claims can cut latency in half “ compared to other true wireless earbuds supporting SBC / AAC codecs.
” Razer isn ’ t alone in offering a low-latency mode ; Samsung and OnePlus also reduce the response time for audio effects in games when you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Hammerhead True Wireless Pro have a price fitting of their name , $ 199.99 , which puts them firmly in the upper tier of true wireless earbuds .
That ’ s slightly below the usual cost of Sony ’ s 1000XM3 earbuds or newer options like the Jabra Elite 85t , but holiday deals and discounts will probably end up putting all of these on equal footing .
I ’ ll be checking them out over the coming days to see how they stack up against the noise-canceling competition for gaming @ @ @ @ @

Razer released its first set of true wireless earbuds in 2019, with the main appeal being a low-latency mode that made them better suited for mobile gaming. Now, the company is ready with its second pair, the Hammerhead True Wireless Pro, which go on sale today for $199.99 and add active noise cancellation and THX audio certification to the mix. “The Hammerhead True Wireless Pro uses hybrid ANC to nullify both external and unwanted internal noise by generating inverse sound waves simultaneously,” Razer wrote in its press release for the new buds.
Passive noise isolation also helps there, and Razer has switched to a proper in-ear design — unlike the AirPods-esque open style of the original Hammerhead True Wireless. (There’s a “quick attention mode” for piping in outside audio when you want to hear what’s happening near you.) Along with the usual silicone options (six different sets of them), the company is including a set of medium Comply foam ear tips in the box to help you get the most secure, sealed-off fit possible to better enhance sound quality.
Razer includes six sets of silicone tips and Comply foam right in the box. Image: Razer
The Hammerhead True Wireless Pro are rated IPX4 for water and sweat resistance, and Razer says they last up to 20 hours total with the case factored in; the earbuds can make it through four hours of continuous listening, which is about an hour below competitors like the AirPods Pro and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds. There’s also no wireless charging, which is disappointing to see at this level. You control the buds with the touch-sensitive Razer logo button on each one.
As for the THX certification, Razer says “fine details such as frequency range and response are evaluated, and the device must be capable of delivering clear, detailed vocals and deep impactful bass with zero distortion at high volumes.” The Hammerhead True Wireless Pro feature 10mm drivers and still include a Game Mode that the company claims can cut latency in half “compared to other true wireless earbuds supporting SBC / AAC codecs.” Razer isn’t alone in offering a low-latency mode; Samsung and OnePlus also reduce the response time for audio effects in games when you use their respective earbuds and phones together.
Image: Razer


theverge--2020-12-03--Raise your hand if ‘Cash App launches a clothing line’ was on your 2020 bingo card

If you ’ ve ever used Cash App and thought “ wow , I wish I could put this on my body ... ” we may need to talk about your relationship with apps .
But also you ’ re in luck !
The payment service announced in a tweet today that it ’ s launching its own apparel line , called ( what else ) Cash .
According to its website , the apparel line will follow the standard streetwear release model of “ limited edition drops ” .
If you follow this link from the tweet , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creepy 3D models — you can click on them to make them dance — before you actually get to the shop .
Once there , you can browse the “ fits ” ( as I ’ ve heard the kids calling them ) .
If you need a new T-shirt , sweatshirt , jacket , or pair of pants , and for some reason don ’ t mind being a walking billboard for a company that makes money when you spend money , you can , of course , buy one using your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get an extra 25 percent off if you use its service instead of a credit card .
And , if you ’ re worried about getting chilly from the ice-cold look you ’ ll soon be rocking , you can even get a scarf .

If you’ve ever used Cash App and thought “wow, I wish I could put this on my body...” we may need to talk about your relationship with apps. But also you’re in luck! The payment service announced in a tweet today that it’s launching its own apparel line, called (what else) Cash. According to its website, the apparel line will follow the standard streetwear release model of “limited edition drops”.
If you follow this link from the tweet, you’ll first be subjected to some creepy 3D models — you can click on them to make them dance — before you actually get to the shop. Once there, you can browse the “fits” (as I’ve heard the kids calling them). If you need a new T-shirt, sweatshirt, jacket, or pair of pants, and for some reason don’t mind being a walking billboard for a company that makes money when you spend money, you can, of course, buy one using your Cash Card. You’ll even get an extra 25 percent off if you use its service instead of a credit card. And, if you’re worried about getting chilly from the ice-cold look you’ll soon be rocking, you can even get a scarf.