Struggling to get your TV’s display just right? Here’s the secret to accessing all your TV’s customization settings, in one minute.
Android bug causing phone battery drain – Here's how to fix it
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Though the war between Android and Apple fans will rage on for eternity, you may find a reason to want to switch sides. While hardcore loyalists view this as akin to stepping out with the enemy, both ecosystems offer pros and cons.
If you’re an Apple user and want to try something new but are hesitant to switch to Android, cast your fears aside. It’s easier than you think and doesn’t take much work. There’s even a free app to ease the transition. Tap or click here for our tips on switching from an iPhone to an Android phone.
If you are an Android user, there’s a new issue you need to know about. Some are reporting their phone’s battery is draining faster than it should. Keep reading to find out the possible causes and ways to extend your battery life.
What a drag
If you notice your battery is dying or draining quickly, it could result in several issues. Here are some common causes to look into:
- If your battery is old, it won’t hold the same charge it did when it was newer.
- Sometimes a developer update can cause issues with battery life.
- Your favorite apps could be draining your battery in the background.
- Your charging habits can shorten your battery’s lifespan.
Recently, Android users took to Reddit to report a bug causing their phone cameras to run into the background, causing overheating while sapping their battery life. The original poster wrote that the camera was running “just shy of 12 out of the last 24 hours.”
Other Redditors reported similar issues. It seems that the Google Messages app leaves the camera running in the background after you use it to send images or videos within a chat.
The Verge reached out to Google and reported that “the bug has been identified and the fix is currently rolling out to users.”
You’ll want to shut down the app by closing it from the Recents view. You can also take things a step further while waiting for the fix.
Look for the signs and change your app permissions
Android 12 added privacy indicators to the top-right corner of phone screens. These let you know when an app is accessing the phone’s camera or microphone. At first, you’ll see an icon representing which one is being used. A few seconds later, it turns into a green dot.
How you can use secret alerts to catch snoops in your home
There’s a lot to worry about when you have guests over, like whether they will like your food or if your house is clean enough. Depending on how scrupulous your guests are, they might start sneaking around and rifling through your things. Here’s a helpful tip if you’re wondering how to catch snoops.
This Zillow update makes home shopping easier
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This was a rough year for Zillow. The company wanted to flip homes to make big cash, so its algorithm bought up properties like hotcakes — but the whole affair flopped.
On Nov. 2, Zillow reported a third-quarter net loss of $328 million. On the bright side, that means many of its homes are selling for low prices. Tap or click here for Kim’s guide to home shopping.
Shopping guide: Ben's best-reviewed products of 2021
Over the past year, I’ve reviewed dozens of products, from battery chargers to motorized standing desks. While not every new gadget managed to wow me, quite a few made a positive impression.
They might do the same for you. There could even be a few that would make an excellent gift for someone you know — especially those who are difficult to buy for.
Eliminate noisy distractions while asleep
Don’t let your smartphone ruin your sleep. In 60 seconds, learn how to optimize its settings for better rest.
Turn your iPhone into a pro camera
Do your iPhone videos come out blurry? You’re using the wrong camera settings. Here’s what to do, in 60 seconds.
Paper map revival, best TV settings, subtitle tips
What would you save in a fire? Most of us would run to our smartphones. Plus, why 50% of people don’t connect the internet to smart tech, Netflix password sharing will be banned by late March and how to digitize your most important documents.
Best TV settings for the big game
Pay attention, football fans! Tweak these TV settings for the best picture quality possible. It will only take a minute.
Stop your streaming device from tracking you
Want to protect your digital privacy while you binge your favorite shows? Turn off these three settings.
Turn on these 3 settings so your phone won't get hacked
Want to protect your phone from malware? Listen to this one-minute podcast for three ways to prevent malware on Android and iOS devices.
Turn on these 3 settings so your phone won't get hacked
Want to protect your phone from malware? Listen to this one-minute podcast for three ways to prevent malware on Android and iOS devices.
New Alexa features: Sound detection, refill medications and more
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Smart assistants are there to make your life easier and more enjoyable. They can help you with simple tasks such as setting the thermostat or impressing your guests on movie night by setting the mood via lighting.
Amazon’s Alexa is built into all Echo devices and is compatible with numerous other smart devices. Though she’s one of the most popular smart assistants out here, Alexa isn’t perfect and does have her quirks. Tap or click here to check out how to solve five common Alexa problems.
LG has a $100K rollable TV - or you could buy all this stuff instead
LG.com
We are more glued to our television sets than ever before. The pandemic gave us more time to watch TV, as those who could have stayed home more often. Streaming services added more content and as movie theaters were shut down, films were released for home viewing.
Digital Life Hack: Upgrade your TV settings
Hidden deep in your TV’s settings menu, you have something called motion smoothing. This feature artificially adds frames to whatever you’re watching. It can make a world of difference.
Stop using that same old password for your online accounts - Try this instead
Hackers have plenty of tricks when it comes to making you their victim. They can send you emails containing viruses and malware. They can send you links that go to malicious websites. They can get you through phony social media accounts and apps that look like legitimate sources.
This gadget turns your tabletop into a phone charger - Is it worth it?
Your desk is a mess. OK, maybe not your desk specifically, but think about all the things you’ll find in the average workspace. Tap or click here to give your home office a high-tech makeover.
Start with your computer and then there’s a monitor or two (or three?) along with a keyboard and mouse. You might have a set of speakers, wireless earbuds and of course, the all-important phone charger.
New Amazon Echo screen moves with you and it's available to preorder now
Amazon
Echo smart devices have come a long way since they first hit the market. Not only are there original Echo speakers, but there are a ton of different and upgraded devices available now, too.
There’s a reason Echo devices are so popular. They are affordable and useful, too. You can use your Alexa-enabled speaker to control smart devices, track schedules, shop for items you need or help with a ton of other tasks. Plus, you can get even more out of your Alexa device with these pro tips.
New research: COVID can live on your phone for 28 days – How to properly disinfect yours
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Can you believe we’ve been dealing with coronavirus for nearly seven months already? It’s true. The World Health Organization declared it a pandemic all the way back in March and things haven’t been the same since.
Thankfully there have been plenty of breakthroughs in technology since then that have made it easier to navigate life. Google Maps even added a hotspot tracker so you know if it’s safe to visit places you’re thinking about traveling to. Tap or click to see how it works.
How to get the best Amazon Prime Day deals - and 7 incredible early sales
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Prime Day is coming next week — and deals are already starting to trickle in. For those of you ready to shop ’til you drop, Amazon is offering discounts on electronics and accessories from some of the biggest manufacturers in the world.