Tag Archives: phone

Wearables

This Health-Tracking Smartwatch Deal Helps With Your New Year Fitness Goals

This sensible system can work together with your telephone to ship messages straight to the small display in your wrist. Another phone-friendly functionality is that this smartwatch can take footage in your telephone with a custom-made distant management. Get prepared for implausible household photographs the place no person wants to remain out of body.

This smartwatch also tracks your steps and collects a variety of wellness knowledge that may assist you hone in on a more healthy life-style. And its trendy, colourful band is comfy, with a intelligent magnetic design that makes it simple to throw on and wrap round your wrist to put on every single day.

Get this MagPRO Smartwatch with Magnetic Band & Activity Tracker on sale for simply $49.99 (reg. $150).

Prices topic to vary.

Smartphones

How To Disable Bixby On Your Samsung Device

To extricate your cellphone from Bixby as a lot as doable, a number of issues must be disabled. First, when you’ve got a pre-2022 cellphone with Bixby, it has the devoted Bixby Button, and it is advisable to disable that. At least on the Galaxy S20, S21, Note 10, and Note 20 handsets, this is how:

  1. Swipe down from the highest of the display to drag up your notifications, then swipe down once more to get the complete menu.
  2. Tap the facility icon.
  3. Tap “Side key settings.”
  4. Tap “Power off menu” within the “Press and hold” choices to alter the button’s habits to that of most Android telephones as an alternative of the default “Wake Bixby” motion,

On older telephones, you wish to:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap “Advanced Features.”
  3. Tap the “Bixby key.”
  4. Switch the Bixby key to being activated by a double press to make it tougher to set off.

To flip off detection of the “Hi Bixby!” wake phrases — Samsung’s model of “OK Google!” or “Hey Google!” — it’s best to do as follows:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap “Apps.”
  3. Tap “Bixby Voice.”
  4. Tap “Bixby Voice Settings.”
  5. Disable “Voice wake-up.”

You could have additionally seen that your private home display’s furthest-left web page is populated by Samsung’s information feed, which has passed by varied names. (It might be Bixby Home, Samsung Free, or Samsung News.) To flip it off or change it to Google Discover:

  1. Tap and maintain on any empty area on your private home display.
  2. Keep swiping proper on the house display till you attain the furthest-left web page.
  3. Tap the toggle change on the high to show off the information feed fully. Alternatively, if Google Discover can be there and also you’d fairly use that, faucet the radio button on the left facet of the Google Discover card.
Technology

What Are Burner Phones, And Where Can You Buy Them?

If you are on the lookout for another excuse to contemplate a burner cellphone, their bare-bones performance makes them preferrred for customers who do not want the web or social media. So, if a cell phone that retains you off the proverbial grid is what you are on the lookout for, you may be completely happy to be taught there are dozens of no-nonsense telephones and pay as you go plans in the marketplace lately. You may also have an interest to know you’ll be able to decide up a so-called burner cellphone in any variety of shops.

Some of the extra distinguished pay as you go cellphone suppliers in the marketplace are Boost Mobile and Tracfone, however even Verizon has gotten in on the pay as you go sport by way of their Total line of telephones. Whatever stage of operate you want, most pay as you go cellphone suppliers promote their gadgets by huge field shops like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target. They will also be bought at retail cellphone shops like Metro and Cricket and sure comfort shops like 7-11.

As for the way a lot a burner cellphone will value you, that each one relies on what you need from the gadget. Assuming you are not on the lookout for a pay as you go smartphone, you’ll be able to decide one up for as little as $20, however costs go up from there. You may also must pay for the cellphone’s calling plan individually, and that worth can change dramatically relying on the plan chosen. If these choices aren’t interesting, you could possibly all the time flip your present smartphone right into a pseudo burner by way of the Burner app.

Smartphones

Changing This iPhone Setting Will Help Make Sure You Never Miss An Incoming Call

Changing the way in which you obtain cellphone calls in your iPhone is a somewhat easy course of that simply takes a few faucets and a fast scroll of your finger. First off, you need to open up your settings app. From there, you scroll all the way down to the choice that claims “Phone.” You would possibly assume this may be inside the first couple of selections within the settings menu as a result of an iPhone is a cellphone, however it’s additional down than you’d anticipate.

Once you might have tapped on the cellphone choice, the third menu merchandise you will note is “Incoming Calls.” If subsequent to these phrases it says, “Full Screen,” then you have already got this characteristic enabled. However, chances are high that it says “Banner.” If you click on on this menu choice, it is possible for you to to toggle between the 2 selections and choose the one you need. In this case, you need the full-screen choice.

After that, you might be all set to go, and once you obtain your subsequent incoming cellphone name if you are deep into scrolling by way of Instagram or sitting by way of one more advert to your recreation, the entire iPhone display will let you already know.

Gaming, Smartphones

5 Top Rated Android Smartphones For Gamers

Samsung’s primary flagship telephone, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, wasn’t precisely constructed with solely gaming in thoughts. But by way of efficiency and gaming expertise, it delivers in addition to, if not higher, than most different telephones engineered particularly for avid gamers.

It boasts Samsung’s finest chip but, the custom-built Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, crafted to help peak efficiency for lengthy intervals, 8 or 12 GB of RAM, and as much as 1 TB of storage. It additionally has a 1440 x 3088-pixel 6.8-inch AMOLED show with a 120Hz refresh price. All of those specs are supported by a battery we’ve examined that may final a day while not having to cost.

Apart from the {hardware} numbers, the S23 Ultra has some pro-gaming options you must know. One of the bodily traits that earmark it from the S22 predecessor is its flatter sides, which provides it a greater grip for taking part in video games in panorama mode. Also, the S23 has a hidden feature that allows you to direct energy straight to the CPU as a substitute of the battery whereas charging the telephone. This helps scale back warmth throttling and enhance efficiency whereas preserving your telephone plugged in.

However, the S23 Ultra is dear and would not provide the identical gaming-oriented {hardware}, cooling options, and devoted gaming software program that different telephones on this record will provide.

Smartphones

The Easy Way To Reset Service On Your Android Phone If It’s Spotty

When your Android phone starts dropping bars, a quick solution is to turn on airplane mode and then turn it off again. This can help refresh the connection and allow your phone to connect to the strongest signal available in your current location, especially if it’s connected to a weak or suboptimal signal point.

To access airplane mode on Android, swipe down from the top of the screen to open the notification shade, then swipe down again to access the quick settings panel. On some models, you can also access the quick settings by swiping down with two fingers. Look for the airplane mode toggle, which should be turned off. Tap it to activate airplane mode, wait 15 to 30 seconds, and then tap it again to turn off airplane mode. After a few moments, your phone should reconnect to the network with a stronger connection.

If toggling airplane mode does not resolve the issue, you can also try restarting your phone to fix minor bugs, including connection issues. Press and hold the sleep/wake button, then tap the restart option if it appears in the power menu. If a different menu appears, try holding down the sleep/wake and volume up key (on Google Pixel devices) or the sleep/wake and volume down key (on Samsung Galaxy devices).

Smartphones

Here’s How Android System Intelligence Really Works

Android System Intelligence is not a necessary feature for your Android phone. If you choose to disable it, you can still perform basic functions such as making calls, sending texts, browsing the web, and downloading apps. However, disabling it will remove many of the smart and personalized features from your Android phone. 

If you want the best possible experience using your Android phone, it’s recommended to keep Android System Intelligence enabled. If you do not wish to use it, you can only disable it as system apps cannot be uninstalled. Here’s how to do this:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android phone.

  2. Tap Apps.

  3. Tap App Management or See all apps.

  4. Select Android System Intelligence.

  5. Tap Disable.

  6. Tap Disable App on the pop-up.

If you want to clear the data collected by Android System Intelligence, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings

  2. Tap Privacy.

  3. Tap Android System Intelligence.

  4. Tap Clear data.

The method to disable or clear data for Android System Intelligence may vary depending on the type of Android phone you have, so if you are unable to locate the options, search for ‘Android System Intelligence’ in the Settings app and then follow the instructions above.

Once disabled, Android System Intelligence can be enabled at any time by selecting the app in settings and tapping Enable. You can also change app permissions on your Android phone. To do this, open the app settings, tap Permissions, and choose a permission. On the next screen, tap Don’t allow or Ask every time. The latter option will prompt a request every time Android System Intelligence requires access to a permission.

Lexus

WHAT’S NEW: 2024 LEXUS LS

  • Wireless cell phone charger standard on LS 500 and LS 500h
  • Head-Up Display, Digital Key capability, and 12.3-inch multi-information display (MID) now standard on LS 500
  • New exterior color: Silver Illusion
  • New wheel colors and designs available, exclusive to LS models
  • Starting MSRP of $80,685 (includes Delivery, Processing and Handling fee)

PLANO, Texas (Oct. 25, 2023) – The flagship sedan of Lexus, the 2024 LS, continues to impress with its bold design, refined performance, and exceptional craftsmanship. While the 2024 model sees minor changes, it remains a standout choice in the luxury sedan segment.

The 2024 Lexus LS now comes standard with a wireless cell phone charger in the cockpit, and a brand-new exterior paint option called Silver Illusion. Additionally, depending on the grade, the LS offers five exclusive wheel designs and colors. The 2024 LS gas models also come equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0), Digital Key capability, Head-Up Display, and a 12.3-inch Multi-Information Display (MID).

The 2024 LS 500 has a starting MSRP* of $80,685, while the hybrid LS 500h starts at $115,560. These models are expected to arrive in dealerships later this year.

*Includes Delivery, Processing and Handling fee of $1,350

Impressive Power – Lexus LS 500

The LS 500 is equipped with a powerful 3.4-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers 416 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine features a unique piston top design for low emissions and quiet operation when cold. The twin-turbo engine also has a precise wastegate control for enhanced performance efficiency. The LS 500 is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission for optimal power output.

With a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds, the LS 500 offers thrilling performance. Drivers can choose from various driving modes – Eco, Comfort, Normal, Custom, Sport S, or Sport S+ – to tailor the powertrain response and feel. The LS 500 also features an available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with a Torsen® limited-slip center differential for improved traction and stability. The vehicle’s powerful stance is accentuated by 19-inch alloy wheels in a Black and machined finish.

LS 500h AWD

The LS 500h is a high-performance hybrid model that also features a twin-turbo V6 engine producing 416 horsepower. It comes with 20-inch alloy wheels in a Vapor Chrome finish.

Built on the Mobility Teammate Concept, the Lexus Teammate™ technology allows for safe and convenient mobility. The LS 500h AWD is equipped with Lexus Teammate™ Advanced Drive and Advanced Park functions.

Looking the Part

The front fascia of the LS showcases a stylish design, with squared lower radiator air intakes that emphasize its sturdy and powerful stance. The dark metallic spindle grille adds an elegant touch to the overall appearance. The LS features 3-projector LED headlamps with a stacked layout, along with deep headlamps and squarish sub-radiator grilles that enhance its confident look.

The 2024 LS offers a variety of exterior color options, ranging from Ultra White, Eminent White Pearl, Atomic Silver, Manganese Luster, Iridium, Obsidian, Caviar, Matador Red Mica, and Nightfall Mica. The new addition for 2024 is the Silver Illusion exterior color.

Next-Level Interior

The 2024 Lexus LS continues to impress with its attention to detail and luxurious interior.

The Luxury and Executive Packages offer the option of Haku interior ornamentation. Haku foil is a traditional Japanese technique that involves flattening metal to an extremely thin width, resulting in a delicate shine reminiscent of moonlight reflecting on ocean waves. Additionally, the Luxury and Executive Packages now include a wood and leather-trimmed heated steering wheel.

On Executive models, the Kiriko Glass ornamentation and hand-folded pleats on the door trim showcase the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship. The cut glass ornamentation is inspired by Japanese Kiriko glassware, known for its intricate patterns created by hand-cutting and polishing.

The LS pays special attention to the rear seats, offering heating and massage options. The Executive Package also adds a reclining passenger-side seat that can be adjusted up to 48 degrees for optimal comfort.

F SPORT Brings Style and Dynamic Handling

The F SPORT version of the LS features a unique design that enhances its dynamic image. The front garnish of the sub-radiator grilles wraps around to the sides, emphasizing the vehicle’s wide stance. The F SPORT package also includes a dedicated color for the spindle grille and 20-inch spoke alloy wheels with a Gloss Black Metallic finish. For 2024, the package now includes a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel and a Panoramic View Monitor as standard features.

The F SPORT persona continues inside the cabin with perforated-grill pattern seating surfaces and Naguri aluminum trim elements. The F SPORT seats offer 28-way electric/pneumatic adjustment with power cushion-length extenders to ensure exceptional comfort during any drive.

Technology and Convenience Features

Lexus Interface with standard 12.3-inch touchscreen

The LS is equipped with a high-definition 12.3-inch touchscreen that provides easy-to-use controls and clear information for the driver and front-seat passenger. The screen features a high-adhesion, anti-reflective coating for a vivid display. Menu operations are similar to smartphones and tablets, and a center knob at the bottom edge of the screen controls power and volume for added convenience.

Cloud Navigation*

The LS features a 100% cloud-capable system that integrates with Google points of interest (POI) data. This provides faster and more up-to-date search results, accurate directions, and alternate routes based on real-time traffic conditions. The system also has an offline mode that downloads maps and services in advance to ensure continuity in case of signal loss.

Intelligent Assistant* 

The LS is equipped with Intelligent Assistant, offering convenient voice commands for various interior amenities such as navigation, multimedia, and climate control. With dual microphones, enhanced noise cancellation, and seat detection capabilities, this feature ensures accurate voice recognition. It can be activated by saying “Hey Lexus” and requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription.

Digital Key* (Standard on LS Gas Models)

The LS gas models come standard with Digital Key, which allows compatible smartphones to function as vehicle keys through the Lexus app. Users can control door locks and enjoy additional convenience for car sharing, valet parking, or home delivery of packages. The Digital Key can be shared with up to seven additional guests registered on the Lexus app.

Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto Capability

The LS offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, enabling users to access their favorite apps and control menus using their preferred mobile device ecosystem. The wireless feature allows for up to five Bluetooth devices to be registered, with two devices connected simultaneously.

Safety Connect*

With a Lexus Safety Connect trial of up to 10 years, the LS provides exceptional service in case of emergencies or vehicle theft.

Service Connect*

The Service Connect trial, accessible through the Lexus app, connects the LS with a compatible Lexus dealer to provide maintenance reminders and detailed Vehicle Health Reports for up to 10 years.

Head-Up Display

The LS features a Head-Up Display that projects essential information, such as speedometer, shift position, and navigational directions, in front of the driver’s field of vision. The display’s position can be linked to the driver’s seat position memory for personalized convenience.

Traffic Jam Assist Capability*

With an active Drive Connect trial or subscription, the LS can monitor surrounding traffic and automatically move forward and brake as needed to maintain a set following distance on limited access highways. This system provides hands-free steering assistance and can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume when traffic starts moving again.

*Available by subscription. Dependent on 4G network availability. Visit lexus.com/interface for more details.

LSS+ 3.0 (Standard on LS Gas Models)

The 2024 Lexus LS gas models come standard with LSS+ 3.0, an integrated suite of active safety equipment and convenience features.

Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection – This system helps detect potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists and provides audio and visual warnings. If the driver does not react, it can automatically apply emergency braking at speeds between 7-110 mph. The PCS utilizes a camera and millimeter-wave radar for enhanced performance and reliability.

  • Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist – This feature supports collision avoidance by applying gentle braking and steering operation in certain daytime conditions.
  • Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking – This feature provides a warning and automatic braking if the system detects a driver turning left in front of an oncoming vehicle in certain daytime conditions.

All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) – This adaptive cruise control system uses radar and camera technology to maintain a preset speed and distance from vehicles ahead, even in traffic. It can automatically slow the vehicle to a stop and resume speed when the road ahead clears.

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) – When enabled, LTA uses lane markings and preceding vehicles to provide active driving assistance and help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.

Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS) – This system detects driver inactivity and provides warnings. If no further inputs are detected, it brings the vehicle to a gradual stop while keeping it in its lane and activates hazard lights to alert other drivers. EDSS operates on expressways with DRCC and LTA activated.

Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/ SA) – When detected at speeds above 32 mph, this system provides audio and visual warnings for lane departures and can assist with steering for lane keeping.

Road Sign Assist (RSA) – Using a camera, RSA detects and displays speed limit signs, stop signs, Do Not Enter signs, yield signs, and certain warning signs on the Multi-Information Display (MID).

Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) – Utilizing the vehicle’s camera and radar, PDA provides braking and steering support for driving tasks such as maintaining distance from preceding vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists.

LSS + 2.5 (Standard on LS Hybrid Models)

All 2024 LS hybrid models come with LSS+ 2.5, which includes PCS with Pedestrian Detection, Low-light Pedestrian and Daytime Bicyclist Detection, Left Turn Vehicle Intersection Support, LDA w/ SA, Intelligent High Beams, DRCC, LTA, and RSA.

2024 Lexus LS Pricing Chart

Technology

Understanding Renters Insurance Coverage for Phones and Gadgets

Having renters insurance is a good step towards protecting your belongings, including your phone and other electronic gadgets. However, it’s important to delve into the details of your policy to know exactly what is covered. Renters insurance typically includes coverage for handheld electronic devices, but there are limitations to consider.

One crucial aspect to examine in your policy is the electronics limit of liability. This refers to the maximum amount covered for the loss or damage of gadgets such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Understanding this limit will give you an idea of how much you can expect to receive in case of theft or damage.

For instance, let’s say your policy has a $15,000 cap for personal belongings, but it only covers up to $2,000 for electronic equipment. Considering your deductible and the value of your gadgets, you may have to pay a significant amount out of pocket if these items are damaged or stolen.

It’s worth noting that most insurance policies do not automatically cover accidental damage or loss. You may need to purchase additional coverage to protect against such situations. It’s therefore crucial to carefully review the exclusions and consider these factors before selecting a plan.

Smartphones

Google Reveals Prices for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro Before October Release

The standard Pixel phone, known as the vanilla Pixel, is expected to come with a higher price tag this year. The Pixel 8 will reportedly start at $699, compared to the previous Pixel 7’s price of $599. This increase in price is due to the various hardware changes both internally and externally.

Unlike its predecessor, the Pixel 8 will feature a 120Hz display instead of a 90Hz screen. It will also come with an upgraded processor, thanks to the third-generation Tensor chip. The rear camera setup will consist of a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide snapper, which is now capable of capturing macro photography.

Other specifications for the Pixel 8 include a slightly smaller 6.17-inch FHD+ (2400 x 1080 pixels) OLED screen, 8GB of RAM, a choice between 128GB and 256GB of storage, and a slightly larger 4,485mAh battery with 45W charging support. This year’s model will be available in Grey, Peony Rose, and Obsidian Black colors.