Tag: deal

Big discounts on trade in for Galaxy Watch Ultra from Samsung

Samsung’s massive wave of new offers has not peaked yet, and they are not just for their recently released S25 devices. With up to $350 in instant trade-in credit available to lower the price to $300, less than half the price of the Apple Watch Ultra 2, or $100 off without trade for a very good $550, the Galaxy Watch Ultra, Samsung’s flagship wristwatch, is the newest addition to the great-deals trend.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is one of the best fitness-first smartwatches available anywhere, so this fantastic deal on Samsung’s tough and dependable smartwatch is timed to go along with all of the amazing deals coming out of last week’s Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event. It is also ideal if you are still sticking to your 2025 fitness resolution four weeks into the new year.

Best for an active life

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is the greatest fitness wearable for exploring and working out outdoors, but it also performs admirably at home or in the gym. The durable titanium body that encircles the crystal-clear 47mm Super AMOLED face is capable of withstanding the most intense exercises you are prepared to put it (and yourself) through. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is waterproof down to 10 atmospheres, making it ideal for swimmers and divers.

With the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s longest-lasting watch battery and turn-by-turn navigation and enhanced GPS, you can confidently set out on your far-flung trail excursions and find your way back to the beaten route. To assist you stay on your fitness path, Galaxy AI will compare your workout to your previous one and evaluate heart-rate tracking and other parameters, making the results conveniently available on your Samsung Galaxy phone.

Benefits for day and might

With dedicated settings for dozens of sports, including badminton, hockey, and everything in between, the Galaxy Watch Ultra can be used for any kind of exercise or sport you can imagine. Personalized heart-rate zone, VO2Max, and even projected sweat loss are among the running data that are measured. You will not be able to outrun this fantastic smartwatch no matter how fast you are thanks to the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s 1.6GHz processor.

Additionally, the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s AI-enhanced sleep tracker may identify moderate to severe sleep apnea and potentially prevent catastrophic side effects from that deadly condition. If you do stop and rest at some time, the tracker will also tell you how restful your sleep was.

Go to Samsung right now to discover how close your previous smartwatch will get to earning you the $350 maximum trade-in credit if you are wishing it were a Galaxy Watch Ultra. You can either take advantage of the $100 no-trade offer and be content with a fantastic $550 price on an elite fitness wristwatch, or you can max it out and get the Galaxy Watch Ultra for just $300.

Get the deal

January 30, 2025
Top 10 best Wear OS smartwatches: must-have picks for tech enthusiasts
The market for Wear OS smartwatches has been around for a while. We are eager to see what 2025 has in store for fans of smartwatches, given the most recent advancements in the field, such as Google Gemini, Snapdragon processor updates, and new watch faces and designs. This list will assist you in selecting the finest Android Wear OS smartwatch if you are also looking for one.

Google Pixel Watch 3

We begin our list with the incredibly powerful Google Pixel Watch 3. You can definitely rely on this watch if you are searching for one that tracks your health and do not want to worry about performance. Four traditional colors are available.

Features:
- good battery life
- powered by Snapdragon W5 gen 1 chip
- bright and vibrant display
Google Pixel Watch 3
Feature-Packed Smartwatch: The Google Pixel Watch 3 boasts a 45mm vibrant display, powered by a robust processor and ample storage, running on the Android Wear OS.
Best Wear OS choice
$399.00Buy on Amazon

Amazfit Balance

The Amazfit Balance is a state-of-the-art smartwatch that combines performance, style, and health-focused features to improve your everyday routine.

With its brilliant AMOLED display, sophisticated fitness tracking, and sleep monitoring features, this wearable is the perfect partner for helping you remain on top of your objectives. The Amazfit Balance provides seamless integration with your lifestyle, whether you are using it to check your wellness, take calls while on the go, or work out.

Features
- offline maps.
- great display
- good for fitness tracking
Amazfit Balance
Comprehensive Health Tracking: Monitor your body’s key health metrics, including heart rate, blood oxygen, stress levels, breathing rate, sleep quality, and body composition (fat, muscle, water, bone mass, and more) with advanced sensors and AI analysis.
$199.99Buy on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 comes in at number three on our list. When compared to the Galaxy Watch 6, this watch has a few minor improvements. Nonetheless, it is a feature-rich watch with smooth Wear OS 5 performance.

Features:
- +1 day battery life
- fast charging
- advanced health tracking
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
Looking for a great way to bring out your personal best every day? Challenge yourself to excel on your next run or bike ride using tracking with Galaxy AI that lets you compare your current performance to your last one
Good choice
~~$329.99~~$266.31Buy on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is another Samsung device that made our list of the top Android Wear OS smartwatches. All things considered, it is a high-end smartwatch, affordable, with all-around functionality.

Features:
- over 24 hours per charge battery.
- irregular heart rhythm notification
- advanced fitness and sleep tracking.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Track over 90 exercises, monitor heart rate zones, get insights on workout duration, distance, calories burned, and more to achieve your fitness goals.
~~$229.00~~$169.99buy on Amazon

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5

Despite being less well-known, this the watch is among the most feature rich Wear OS devices in 2025. Fitness enthusiasts are the target market for the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5. Like the Google Pixel Watch on our list, it has a potent Snapdragon W5+ chip, which makes the pricing far lower and more reasonable.

Features
- great battery life, around 80 hours.
- great fitness tracking
- dual-screen design for better usability.
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5
Powered by the latest Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 Wearable Platform and Wear OS by Google, the TicWatch Pro 5 delivers faster and smoother performance with 2GB RAM and 32GB storage, enabling seamless multitasking and app usage.
~~$349.99~~$164.50Buy on Amazon

OnePlus Watch 2

The OnePlus Watch 2, which has a dual-chip system for efficiency and seamless Wear OS + RTOS integration, combines performance and style. Its stylish design fits most wrists, even though it does not have an LTE version. The AMOLED screen is excellent.

Key Features
- Snapdragon W5 + BES2700
- great battery life
- accurate fitness tracking,
- dual operating system
OnePlus Watch 2
The OnePlus Watch 2 boasts a durable stainless-steel chassis and a robust 2.5D sapphire crystal face, offering a sophisticated design with 5ATM and IP68 water resistance ratings, ensuring protection against water and dust.
~~$299.99~~$249.95Buy on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

The 3nm fast CPU powers this high-end, long-lasting smartwatch. Simple pinch movements can be used to control tasks like answering calls. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra elevates health tracking with its intelligent Galaxy AI technology. If you do not want to sacrifice user experience, do not skimp on this one.

Features
- battery life is 36-48 hours per charge.
- 2nd gen BioActive Sensor
- 10ATM & IP68 Rating
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Climb the highest peak; Bike the long way home; The durable titanium design is our toughest yet, able to stand up to the rigors of your workout, including rainy or dusty conditions — even ocean swimming
~~$649.99~~$432.44See It

Wear OS is still concentrating on enhancing the user interface, allowing dual-band GPS, and polishing health-tracking features this year. You are aware that now is the ideal moment to purchase the newest smartwatches running Android Wear OS.

Fitness monitoring, battery life, and high-end design are just a few of the features that the smartwatches on our list provide to meet various needs. In 2025, take advantage of an improved Wear OS experience by selecting the one that most closely matches your lifestyle!
January 28, 2025
Snag for free these must-have free Android & iOS apps before they’re gone!
Who does not enjoy getting free downloads of premium apps? Developers occasionally give away their premium iOS and Android apps for a brief period of time. These offers may cover anything from picture editors and productivity tools to instructive materials and captivating games.

The catch? You will need to move quickly to seize these undiscovered treasures while they are still available because these deals do not stay long!

We have compiled a list of the top temporarily free apps that are now accessible for download in this post. There is something for everyone here, regardless of your preference for iOS or Android. Every app has been chosen with attention due to its excellent reviews, practicality, and overall worth. Now is your opportunity to improve your smartphone experience without breaking the bank.

Android apps and games that are free for a limited time

Android apps for productivity and lifestyle
- Iris Light Flat 3D Icon Pack (~~$0.49~~): An icon pack that changes the way your Android handset looks like.
- 90s Music Radio Pro (~~$0.90~~): Stream hit music from the 1990s with this unique app that shares culture from the previous century with the current generation.
- Math Up to 100 (~~$2.49~~): This app recognizes handwritten input that makes it a more natural method of learning math, especially for the younger ones.
- Matrix Determinant Pro (~~$0.49~~): Need a quick calculating app to figure out matrices? This app is a math calculator, which can calculate the determinant of a matrix.
- How Much Can I Spend? (~~$2.99~~): Not everyone is a billionaire, so this app comes in handy to help you track your spending.
Free Android games
- WindWings (~~$0.99~~): A frenetic shoot ’em up that will require your reflexes to be at their very best.
- Live or Die Survival Pro (~~$0.49~~): This game places you in dire straits, where you need to keep your wits about you to remain alive in the midst of a zombie apocalypse.
- Tower Defense Legend 5 Pro (~~$0.49~~): A tower defense game that keeps you on the edge of your seat as endless waves of enemies bear down upon you.
- Dungeon Corp. S (~~$1.49~~): A really wacky game set in an office environment where you encounter various monsters and vanquish them to level up.
- Words & Cards Pro (~~$1.49~~): Just how many words can you find in a jumbled mess of letters in this game?
iOS apps that are free for a short time

iOS apps for productivity and lifestyle
- The Wonder Weeks (~~$5.99~~): Keep track of your newborn baby’s development over the first few weeks with this app, making sure you never miss a moment.
- Weather+ (~~$0.99~~): The weather can be a very fickle thing, so making sure you keep tabs on what’s happening outside helps you prepare everything better.
- Resume Designer 3 (~~$3.99~~): Want to cobble up a resume on the fly? This app will help you do so.
- mySymptoms Food Diary (~~$7.99~~): If you want to keep track of what you eat to make sure you don’t take in anything allergic, this can be helpful.
- Good Grade (~~$2.99~~): A photo editor and color grading app that you can bring with you wherever you go.
Free games for the iPhone and iPad
- Vigil RPG (~~$2.00~~): A single-player premium RPG that is featured in 8-bit graphics, with interesting battles that require some important decision-making which will impact the story.
- Dragon Flight Simulator Games (~~$1.99~~): Flying a plane is one thing, but flying a dragon? It doesn’t seem to be as easy as it sounds.
- My City: Hospital (~~$3.99~~): Running a hospital is no child’s play, but you can let your child play with this hospital simulation game!
- Pirate Drops 2 (~~$4.99~~): A match-3 puzzle game that features a pirate theme with fire and water elemental obstacles to boot.
- Kingdom Rush: Tower Defense HD (~~$5.99~~): Hordes of enemies are knocking at your castle’s door. How will you repel them?
The deals were live as of the publishing date. If you found an expired deal, please share it in the comments below.

Before you download one of the apps mentioned, we recommend that you check the details of the app in the Play Store or App Store. This is important because some of these free apps may have their own special features or disadvantages.

Be careful with both free and paid apps, as they can hide in-app purchases and advertising. This is particularly significant when downloading games for children. To avoid unexpected problems, please follow the advice below:

A small number of companies use devious methods to profit from your personal information in the rapidly changing world of mobile apps. We have some essential tips to assist you better safeguard your valuable data, so do not fear, fellow IT enthusiasts. When choosing which apps to download, you must be careful about the rights you provide them. Think about it: why would a basic alarm clock require access to your contact list or camera? Or why would a flashlight app need to know your precise location? You may greatly protect your personal information from unauthorized access by exercising caution when granting permissions.
January 25, 2025
Monster Open Ear AC210 headphones review: unleash superior comfort with advanced Bluetooth 5.4
A sleek and innovative addition to the ever-growing market for open-ear headphones is the Monster Open Ear AC210. These cutting-edge headphones not only incorporate the brand’s distinctive sound quality but also feature state-of-the-art Bluetooth 5.4 technology, ensuring a seamless audio experience.

Top features

Totally Open-Ear Design: The Monster AC210’s fully open-back design lets sound fill your ears without blocking your hearing, offering the utmost in comfort and a natural soundscape.

Immersion Sound Quality: The Monster AC210 produces a three-dimensional and intricate audio experience thanks to its 30mW thrust DAC sound card, two strong 12mm dynamic drivers, and redesigned PI composite beryllium diaphragms.

Extended Battery Life: With up to 6 hours of continuous playback on a single charge and up to 30 hours when combined with the included charging case, you can enjoy your music or calls without frequent recharging.

Design

Because of its innovative open-ear design, the Monster AC210 is crafted to fit comfortably in your ears without obstructing the ear canal at all. This thoughtful design is particularly beneficial for commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone else who needs to enjoy their favorite music while remaining aware of their surroundings.

The unique open-ear structure not only allows for an immersive sound experience but also enhances safety by keeping you alert to nearby sounds. Their ergonomic fit and lightweight design contribute significantly to long-term comfort, making them suitable for prolonged use without any discomfort. Furthermore, their understated and sleek style ensures that they do not look obtrusive or out of place, allowing you to wear them confidently in various settings, whether you’re at the gym, walking in the park, or navigating the bustling city streets.

Sound Quality

Monster’s open-ear headphones offer unexpectedly strong audio performance that may surprise even the most discerning listeners. The sound is not only clean and balanced but also well-rounded, featuring impressive bass for the design that enhances the listening experience. Clear vocals further elevate audio clarity, ensuring that dialogues and vocals remain crisp and vivid in various genres of music and media.

However, it’s worth noting that while these headphones perform admirably in their category, they cannot quite compete with the deep, bass-heavy punch characteristic of over-ear models, which tend to provide a more immersive sound experience.

Additionally, depending on your surroundings, the open-ear design may or may not present advantages; it does, after all, allow some outside noise to filter in, which could be beneficial in situations where you need to remain aware of your environment, but may also detract from your overall listening immersion. Thus, it’s important to consider how you plan to use these headphones before making a final decision.

Bluetooth 5.4 Performance

The AC210 offers a smooth and reliable connection to devices thanks to its Bluetooth 5.4 capability. The long range allows you to roam freely without worrying about dropouts, and pairing is quick. They are also a good choice for video calls and light gaming because of the low latency connection.

Battery Life

With a quick-charging option for added convenience, the AC210 can play for up to eight hours on a single charge. This guarantees a full day of sporadic use without requiring a recharge for casual users.

Monster Open Ear AC210
Designed specifically for users who prioritize both comfort and situational awareness
A very good choice
$99Buy on Amazon

Features worth mention
- IPX5 Water Resistance: Perfect for workouts or light rain.
- Built-in Microphone: Offers decent call quality, although noisy environments may impact clarity.
- Touch Controls: Intuitive touch controls on the sides for easy playback and call management.
Should you buy?

For users who appreciate comfort, security, and reliable wireless performance, the Monster Open Ear AC210 headphones are a great option. These headphones offer dependable sound quality and practicality for daily tasks, even though audiophiles might long for a deeper bass experience.

Whether you are working from home, riding a bike, or running, the AC210 is a multipurpose partner that combines fashion and functionality.
January 23, 2025
Need a Bluetooth Adapter? Discover the Best Bluetooth Adapters of 2025 Now!

Bluetooth adapters are portable devices that enable non-Bluetooth devices to communicate wirelessly. They are also referred to as Bluetooth dongles or transceivers and are ideal for improving your technology setup.

What to look for in a Bluetooth adapter

Bluetooth adapters exist in a variety of shapes and sizes, each serving a different purpose. Whether you need one for your TV, PC, Bluetooth keyboard, automobile, or Nintendo Switch, knowing the purpose will help you select the appropriate size and kind, even though they are all quite portable.

Bluetooth version is also significant. Our recommended adapters vary from Bluetooth 5.3 to the most recent Bluetooth 5.4 specification. A Bluetooth 5.4 adapter can function with older versions, such as Bluetooth 5.3 and lower, although it will be limited to the lower version’s features.

Check for OS compatibility, as not all adapters work with every operating system or device. For example, the UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter is compatible with Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and 11, but not Mac OS or Linux.

UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
The UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter is the best Bluetooth adapter for most of people.
$9.99$9.99

UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
$9.99Buy on Amazon

ZEMTXE Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
$9.99Buy on Amazon

JOYROOM Aux Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
$17.99Buy on Amazon

Beeitzie 5.4 Bluetooth Adapter
$36.99Buy on Amazon

Should I get a 4.0 or 5.0 Bluetooth adapter?

Your needs are what will ultimately determine whether you choose a Bluetooth 4.0 or 5.0 adapter. Although Bluetooth 5.0 is more sophisticated and performs better, older devices may still use both versions. A Bluetooth 4.0 device will function at the capability of the lower version if you use a Bluetooth 5.0 adapter with it.

The 5.0 adaptor can be a wise choice if you intend to upgrade your technology soon. It will be compatible with your existing gadgets and prepared for any future technological advancements.

Will a Bluetooth adapter reduce sound quality?

The codecs a Bluetooth adapter uses and its data transmission speeds determine how it affects sound quality. Compared to Bluetooth 4.0 adapters, those using Bluetooth 5.0 or 5.3 technology often provide better sound, connectivity, range, and lower latency. Therefore, a higher version adapter can actually improve sound quality, while a lower version one may have an impact.

Best Bluetooth adapter overall

UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
Using the UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 is quite simple, plug it into a USB port on your computer, and you are ready.
Best choice
$9.9Buy on Amazon

If you want the best Bluetooth adapter for most individuals, we recommend the UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter. It is small, portable, and inexpensive. It also features Bluetooth 5.4 technology, which ensures fast and dependable connections as well as outstanding data transmission speeds.

Using the UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 is quite simple. Simply plug it into a USB port on your computer, and you are ready. It smoothly integrates with Windows 8.1, 10, and 11. If you have Windows 7, you will need to get the appropriate driver.

This adapter is not just for computers; it also works with PS5/PS4 and Xbox controllers when connected to a PC. While it is not compatible with Windows 8, XP, Mac, Linux, or televisions, it is ideal for connecting Bluetooth devices such as printers, phones, keyboards, mouse, and headsets. In fact, you can connect up to five devices at one time.

With a range of up to 66 feet (20 meters), you may stay connected when moving around your home or space, as long as there are no big obstructions in the way. This makes it ideal for usage in houses or offices where numerous individuals need to connect to Bluetooth devices at once.

Best Budget Bluetooth Adapter

ZEMTXE Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
It costs less than $10 but provides high-quality performance comparable to the UGREEN 5.4.
$9.99Buy on Amazon

Our recommendation for the best Bluetooth adaptor is already reasonably priced at less than $16. However, if you want to save money while still enjoying Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, we offer the ZEXMTE Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter. It costs less than $10 but provides high-quality performance comparable to the UGREEN 5.4.

The ZEXMTE’s plug-and-play architecture makes installation and setup a breeze; simply plug it into your PC and you are ready to go. It supports Windows 8, 8.1, 10, and 11. You will need to manually install the driver on Windows 7.

We also admire its remarkable range. Unlike lower-version Bluetooth adapters, which keep you connected to your PC, the ZEXMTE provides up to 98 feet (30 meters) of coverage in open space. Simply disable any built-in Bluetooth on your PC for the optimum experience.

While it is primarily intended for PCs, it also supports PS4 and Xbox controllers linked to a PC. Although it is incompatible with Mac, Linux, and TVs, it is compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth devices such as printers, phones, keyboards, mice, and headsets, and it can connect up to seven devices at once.

Best Bluetooth Adapter for ports

JOYROOM Aux Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
We strongly suggest the JOYROOM Aux Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter as a good option
$17.99Buy on Amazon

Are you looking to upgrade your house or vehicle’s audio system to Bluetooth? We strongly suggest the JOYROOM Aux Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter as a good option. This compact, useful gadget contains a bass boost button that significantly enhances sound quality and allows wireless streaming of music, podcasts, or audio.

The JOYROOM adapter’s Bluetooth 5.4 chip guarantees a strong, reliable connection with quick transmission and extensive coverage. Although it was designed for automobile audio systems, it also works well with wired headphones, speakers, and home stereos. It is easy to set up; just turn it on, connect it, couple your device, and begin listening to your favorite music.

Mounting it to your car’s air vent allows you to view or interact with it at eye level without taking your eyes off the road. It was designed with safety in mind. Additionally, it includes a cigarette lighter charger with three USB charging connections, one of which is a PD 30W port for quick device charging. You can easily find the controls at night thanks to the LED lighting.

We also appreciate that the JOYROOM adaptor supports hands-free calling. Your calls will sound clearer and be free of background noise from crowds, traffic, and wind thanks to advanced noise cancellation. In addition to supporting voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant, it broadcasts navigation alerts so you can focus on the road rather than your device.

It provides a smooth, hassle-free listening experience by instantly reconnecting with associated devices as soon as they are within range and starting playback where you left off. It is strong, long-lasting, and capable of withstanding years of continuous use.

Best Bluetooth adapter for TV

Beeitzie 5.4 Bluetooth Adapter
For anyone using Bluetooth headphones to stream TV audio
$36.99Buy on Amazon

For anyone using Bluetooth headphones to stream TV audio, the Beeitzie Bluetooth Adapter is the ideal option. Whether at home or on a plane, you may use this adaptor to watch your favorite shows without bothering other people or straining to read or hear the speech on screen.

This adapter functions as both a transmitter (TX Mode) and a receiver (RX Mode) and supports the most recent version of Bluetooth, 5.4. With TX Mode, you can transmit audio across a remarkable range from your PC, TV, or even airplane entertainment systems to your Bluetooth speakers or headphones. When in RX Mode, you can use Bluetooth to pair your smartphone with wired speakers or headphones within a reasonable range.

The Beeitzie Bluetooth Adapter is easy to set up. Whether in TX or RX mode, it can connect to two devices at once and maintain a reliable, effective connection. Its robust battery can be fully charged in roughly two hours and provides up to 24 hours of continuous operation.

Your audio latency will be reduced thanks to support for aptX Adaptive and aptX Low-Latency; nevertheless, this function necessitates suitable headphones and does not allow pairing two aptX Low-Latency devices at once. The Beeitzie Bluetooth Adapter works with all AirPods, including the AirPods 3 and Pro 2, however it is not the best for professional audio equipment.

UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
Best Bluetooth adapter overwall
$9.99$9.99

UGREEN Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
$9.99Buy on Amazon

ZEMTXE Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
$9.99Buy on Amazon

JOYROOM Aux Bluetooth 5.4 Adapter
$17.99Buy on Amazon

Beeitzie 5.4 Bluetooth Adapter
$36.99Buy on Amazon

January 23, 2025
Pixel perfect #deal: Pixel 8a at its lowest price ever

Although Google’s New Year’s sale is officially over, some discounts are still available. Interestingly, the mid-range Pixel 8a with 128 GB of storage is still on sale online for $100 less, or 20% less than its normal $499 price. But the selection of colors is getting smaller.

The base model of the Pixel 8a is available on Amazon in green, porcelain, and blue, while the black, obsidian model with 256 GB is also on sale, costing for $459 (down from $549). For the 256 GB model, Best Buy is providing the same discount.

Google Pixel 8a
Google Pixel 8a is a reasonably priced substitute for the flagship Pixel 9. For those looking for a great camera and a pure Android experience without going over budget, the present deal makes it an even more alluring option.
~~$499.00~~$399.00Buy from Amazon

Why Pixel 8A is a great phone

With its excellent feature-to-price ratio, the Google Pixel 8a is a reasonably priced substitute for the flagship Pixel 9. For those looking for a great camera and a pure Android experience without going over budget, the present deal makes it an even more alluring option.

A lighter frame that feels more comfortable in the palm and softened corners for better handling are just two of the phone’s subtle but significant design improvements. It has a sleek, contemporary appearance thanks to its revised camera bar design, which closely mimics the high-end Pixel 8 flagship.

How is Google Pixel 8A performing?

The 6.1-inch OLED display on the front of the Pixel 8a is brighter than its predecessor, which makes reading outside simpler. A 120 Hz refresh rate is also supported by the panel, which guarantees more fluid scrolling and an improved gaming experience.

Another highlight is the camera’s performance. With the most recent Android 15 update, the Pixel 8a’s 64 MP primary camera and 13 MP ultra-wide lens have been optimized. Among the new AI-powered features are Add Me, which allows you to include the photographer in group photos, Super Res Zoom, which enhances zoom images, and greatest Take, which allows you to choose the greatest facial expressions from several shots.

The device feels quick in terms of performance. It provides flagship-level processing performance and graphics capabilities thanks to the flagship-grade Tensor G3 chipset. The battery’s capacity has been somewhat improved, and wireless charging is a nice perk at this price range even though charging still only uses 18 watts.

Google Pixel 8a
Google Pixel 8a is a reasonably priced substitute for the flagship Pixel 9. For those looking for a great camera and a pure Android experience without going over budget, the present deal makes it an even more alluring option.
~~$499.00~~$399.00Buy from Amazon

January 22, 2025
Save big on Pixel devices on the new Google promo

If you want to save money on the Fitbit Charge 6, Pixel Watch 3, and other Google devices, you have to act quickly. The company’s New Year’s deal, which ends today, January 18, at 11:59 PM PT, was a great way to start the year. Although we expect the matching promotions to end at the same time, other merchants, such as Amazon and Best Buy, are already matching Google’s rates in some cases.

The Pixel Watch 2 and the Pixel Watch 3—the latter of which is still our favorite “Fitbit”—are both now available for the second-best price to date. The 41mm Pixel Watch 3 starts at $299.99 ($50 discount) at Amazon, Best Buy, and the Google Store, while the Wi-Fi-enabled Pixel Watch 2 costs $199.99 ($50 off) at Google, Best Buy, and Target.

Google Assistant, Gmail, Calendar, and Wallet integration, FDA-approved EKGs, and automatic workout tracking are just a few of the Fitbit and Google-powered features found in both wearables. But last year’s Pixel 3 also came in a bigger 44mm version, whilst the previous generation Pixel Watch 2 only came in 41mm.

Other noteworthy improvements of the Pixel Watch 3 include greater connection with other Google devices, AI-generated fitness recommendations, significantly longer battery life, and offline Google Maps. For example, the Pixel Watch 3 allows you to operate your Google TV from your wrist or monitor a Nest Doorbell or Nest Cam feed, both of which are not available with the Pixel Watch 2.

Google Pixel Watch 2 – 41mm
When the always-on display is turned on, the Pixel Watch 2 may dependable last for 24 hours on a single charge. It has a multipath health sensor, Wear OS 5 compatibility, a number of useful safety features, and the same Qualcomm CPU as the new Pixel Watch 3.
~~$250~~$200See It

Google Pixel Watch 3 – 41mm
Compared to its predecessor, Google’s new Pixel Watch 3 is larger and brighter. Additionally, it has tighter interaction with other Google devices, offline Google Maps capability, and more sophisticated running capabilities.
~~$350~~$300Buy on Amazon

The Fitbit Charge 6 is also on sale at Amazon, Best Buy, and the Google Store for $129.95 ($30 off), which is roughly $30 more than its lowest price ever, if you would rather use a low-cost fitness tracker than a smartwatch.

Like its predecessor, the fitness band has a bright OLED display, a built-in GPS, and a variety of sensors to monitor your health. However, the Fitbit Charge 6 has an enhanced heart rate algorithm and is compatible with some fitness equipment via Bluetooth, unlike its predecessor. You may still use Google Wallet and turn-by-turn navigation with Google Maps, even if it does not support as many Google services as a Pixel Watch 3.

Fitbit Charge 6
Turn-by-turn navigation with Google Maps, an enhanced heart rate algorithm, a haptic side button, and the capability to broadcast your heart rate on specific Bluetooth exercise equipment are all features of the Fitbit Charge 6.
~~$159.95~~$135.00Buy on Amazon

Google is offering discounts on a number of wireless earbud pairs in addition to fitness trackers and smartwatches. Amazon, Google, and Best Buy are currently offering the Pixel Buds Pro 2 for $199 ($30 off), which is still their second-best price to date. They are also available from Google in a bundle with the Fitbit Charge 6 for $130.95 ($29 off) or the Pixel Watch 3 for $441.99 ($58 off).

Our top pick for Pixel phone owners are Google’s most recent wireless earphones. They are more pleasant to wear because they have a lightweight construction and more noise cancellation than the previous model. Additionally, they provide some fantastic Google-specific benefits, such as the ability to track the charging case using the company’s recently enhanced Find My Device network and immediately access Google’s Gemini AI assistant. Several Pixel-only functions, such as head tracking spatial audio, are still supported via the earphones.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Significantly smaller and lighter than their predecessors, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 also offer stronger noise cancellation, a crystal-clear transparency mode, and lengthy battery life.
~~$229~~$199Buy on Amazon

If you can not afford the Pixel Buds Pro 2, you can still acquire the Pixel Buds A-Series from Google, Best Buy, and Amazon for $79.95 ($20 down), which is $20 less than their previous lowest price. Although they lack some of the more sophisticated features of the Pro model, such as active noise cancellation, they nevertheless provide great sound quality for the money and a snug fit with a variety of cozy ear tips. Additionally, the latest earbuds enable Google Assistant for hands-free voice control and work nicely with Pixel phones.

Google Pixel Buds A-Series
For less than $100, the Pixel Buds A-Series offer remarkable audio quality, good comfort, and hands-free Google Assistant voice controls.
~~$99.99~~$80Buy on Amazon

January 19, 2025
Google Pixel Watch 3 – great #deal on Amazon, less than $300

One of the greatest Android smartwatches on the market at the moment is Google’s newest flagship device, the Pixel Watch 3. Take advantage of the Pixel Watch 3 on Amazon for $299.99 (was $349.99) if you want the newest smartwatch technology from the company.

Google Pixel Watch 3
Save $50 off the 41mm Pixel Watch 3, which is now only $299.99, $20 more than it was on Black Friday. It has a 24-hour battery life, sleep monitoring, heart rate and exercise tracking, and Wear OS 5 compatibility. It comes in all four colors. Take advantage of this offer now before it is too late if you missed it before Christmas.
Best choice
~~$349.99~~299.99Buy on Amazon

Even though it costs $20 more than the Black Friday pricing, this is still a great bargain. Along with a ton of amazing features for staying in shape, the watch has the most recent version of the Android Wear OS.

We appreciated the significant overhaul and its focus on health in our review of the Google Pixel Watch 3. Google has made significant improvements to Wear OS that make it a true pleasure to use, without losing the popular formula or the iconic teardrop design.

It comes pre-installed with a clean version of WearOS 5 and a stack of stylish sensors that provide several benefits. It features heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen or Sp02 tracking, sleep tracking, daily activity and training tracking, and the ability to obtain an ECG whenever needed.

It is a more sophisticated running watch than it was previously because it now enables the setup of multiple routines with unique metrics. With tracking that genuinely helps you decide whether to push your performance today or not, Fitbit is Morning Brief looks extra great.

Google Pixel Watch 2
Save $50 off the 41mm Pixel Watch 3, which is now only $299.99, $20 more than it was on Black Friday. It has a 24-hour battery life, sleep monitoring, heart rate and exercise tracking, and Wear OS 5 compatibility. It comes in all four colors. Take advantage of this offer now before it is too late if you missed it before Christmas.
Best choice
~~$249.99~~$199.99Buy on Amazon

January 12, 2025
4 essential tips to enhance your Pixel Watch 3 experience
Over the last two years, the Wear OS ecosystem has advanced significantly. Google, Samsung, and OnePlus all have great options.

The Pixel Watch 3 is one of the greatest smartwatches, and Google appears to have mastered it, but it still requires some improvements. I use these everyday tips to get the most of my Google Pixel Watch 3.

Pixel Watch 3
The Google Pixel Watch 3 might not be a massive departure from its predecessor, but the company did pack it with some interesting new features. The larger 45mm version sports a bigger battery and new fitness features help track and plan your runs. If you’re a smart home user, the Pixel Watch 3 can stream live video of your security cameras.
Best choice
~~$349.99~~ $299.99Buy it on Amazon

Turn off notifications when using your phone.

Even when using your phone, Android continues to transmit a notification tone to the Pixel Watch 3, despite the fact that it provides an excellent experience. This is not user-friendly because the notice appears on the screen of your phone, negating the need for the watch.

You may turn off the option that makes your watch vibrate or ding when your phone is in use, which I find bothersome. Here’s how to disable this if you find it annoying:
1. Open the Watch app on your phone.
2. Select Notifications.
3. Toggle on Mute notifications from phone.
Pixel Watch 3 as a camera remote

Using the Pixel Watch 3 as a camera remote is a feature I regularly utilize, particularly when traveling. It functions as a hands-free camera control for your smartphone, which makes it ideal for snapping pictures or selfies when you do not have both hands free. Numerous features are available in the app, such as the ability to change the camera’s zoom level or enter video mode.

The Pixel Watch allows you to remotely activate your phone’s camera, displaying a live feed of the images you are taking. It is a handy function that comes in particularly handy while traveling alone. If you have not tried it yet, it is worth it. To make use of this function:
1. Click the crown on your Pixel Watch.
2. Select the Camera app.
3. Wait a moment for it to connect to your phone.
4. Now, you can take photos, record videos, zoom, and explore different modes from the watch.
Use Google Maps offline

I use the offline maps on my Pixel Watch virtually every day. This is useful since it lets me navigate without taking out my phone while driving, which is very convenient while I am commuting. It is revolutionary because you can tap “Home” to get directions anywhere in the city. In the Himalayas, where connectivity can be erratic, this function is very helpful for trekking.

You must use the Google Maps app to download offline maps to your smartphone in order to enable this function. After that, you can sync them to your watch by choosing the city you wish to download offline maps for and going to the Offline Maps area of the Google Maps app on your Pixel Watch.

Customization

I can not continue using the default watch faces that Google supplies with the Pixel Watch, but everyone has different demands when it comes to smartwatches. The Pixel Watch comes with a number of fully customisable first-party watch faces, several of which allow you to add complexities to your liking.

Because I work in the Eastern Standard Time zone, I use the Active watch face with complexities like World Clock, At a Glance to keep track of my day, and widgets like calories and batteries. Here’s how to personalize the face of your Pixel Watch:
1. Open the Watch app on your phone.
2. Tap Watch faces from the home screen and choose your favorite watch face.
3. After it’s selected, tap the Edit option.
4. Customize the watch face by selecting your preferred color, complications, and more.
Pixel Watch 3
The Google Pixel Watch 3 might not be a massive departure from its predecessor, but the company did pack it with some interesting new features. The larger 45mm version sports a bigger battery and new fitness features help track and plan your runs. If you’re a smart home user, the Pixel Watch 3 can stream live video of your security cameras.
Best choice
~~$349.99~~ $299.99Buy it on Amazon

Like Android, the Wear OS ecosystem’s greatest feature is how customizable it is. You can modify the entire system to your liking or download hundreds of apps from the Play Store. The Pixel Watch offers a wealth of tips and tricks to help you customize the experience to your liking, but Wear OS still has space to learn from rivals.
January 11, 2025
Exciting beta upgrade for Garmin Fenix 8 & others!
A major upgrade has recently been made available in beta form for the Garmin Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 watches. The release of this public beta has been announced by Garmin on the Garmin forums. The Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Fenix E watch families can use it.

What is fresh? Among Garmin’s patch notes, three features are particularly noteworthy. In addition to a new mini-app, there are two additional activities.

New features for Garmin Fenix 8

The activities are Jumpmaster and Sail Race. Before the debut of the Fenix 8, some people complained on Reddit about the lack of Sail Race, which had previously been included in Garmin Fenix 7-series watches.

This mode, like a lot of Garmin’s modes, does a little more than merely record the statistics you see in other modes. According to the Garmin website, “you can utilize the device to help you cross the start line of a race exactly when the event begins.”

“When you set the starting line, the device uses GPS data to indicate whether your boat will cross the start line before, after, or at the correct time to start the race.”

Another mode that was present in the Fenix 7 series but was not initially included in the Fenix 8 and other models is Jumpmaster.

It is for people who leap out of airplanes with a parachute attached, making it even more specialized than Sail Race. You can set the intended landing spot and use it to gauge when you are at the proper height for the jump.

More information on this pro-grade mode can be found on the Garmin website. The Trolling Motor app is the final significant update, and no, it has nothing to do with online trolls.

Although not necessarily present in the more popular Fenix/Enduro models, this type of feature would be a mainstay of the Garmin Quatix line. From your wrist, you can operate compatible Garmin Force Trolling boat motors.

Garmin Fēnix® 8
The Garmin Fenix 8 is a premium multisport GPS smartwatch that combines rugged durability with advanced training features. Built for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, it features comprehensive activity tracking, advanced performance metrics, and enhanced navigation capabilities.
Best choice
$1,099.99Buy on Amazon

Fenix 8 update patch notes

Many additional fixes and adjustments are included in the release. According to Garmin’s post, here is the complete list:
- Added CIQ System 8: Supports the latest Connect IQ apps, watch faces, and data fields.
- Added Sail Race Activity.
- Added Jumpmaster Activity.
- Added Trolling Motor App.
- Added connection type information for paired sensors.
- Improvements to the icons that display with notifications.
- Added Insight Hint to Health and Fitness Apps.
- Added Missing Map Option in Mountaineering Activity.
- Added Respiration Graph to Meditation Activity Summary.
- Added Stress Card to Gaming Activity Summary.
- Added Support for HRM as Speed and Distance Monitor for BLE Sensors.
- Added Support for Nautical Units.
- Added Support to Show Needed Equipment for Strength Workouts.
- Added Touch Support to Dismiss Popup Notification.
- Fixed a possible issue where touchscreen input could not be disabled in activities.
- Fixed Apps that were Inaccessible from the Recents Menu.
- Fixed Auto Climb Data Screen Selection.
- Fixed Blank Calendar Card in Morning Report.
- Fixed Blank Map for Power Guide Preview.
- Fixed Current Time Indicator on the Tides Graph.
- Fixed Do Not Disturb Smart Notification Setting.
- Fixed InReach Contacts List Layout.
- Fixed InReach PIN Code Display Page.
- Fixed Morning Report Showing Stale HRV Data.
- Fixed Pool Swim Interval Details Page Layout.
- Fixed Potential Crash after Deleting Activities from the list.
- Fixed Potential Crash during Meditation Setup.
- Fixed Potential Crash on Body Battery Glance Folder View.
- Fixed Potential Crash on Fitness Age Page.
- Fixed Potential Crash when Dismissing Notifications.
- Fixed Potential Crash when Enabling Broadcast HR.
- Fixed Potential Crash when Viewing Breathwork Preview.
- Fixed Round Trip Routing Not Calculating Full Distance.
- Fixed Sleep History Graph after Traveling.
- Fixed Sleep Window Setup Sometimes Getting Skipped on Initial Setup.
- Fixed Weather App Accidentally Returning to Watch Face.
- Improved Countdown Glance Folder Info Text.
- Improved GPS Progress Bar Presentation when Beginning Search.
- Increased the Maximum Speed of Virtual Partner to 48.95 kph.
- Updated Sunrise/Sunset Time Alert Range.
Since Garmin’s beta program is free to join, it is important to note that this update will also turn off the watches’ Dive mode and ECG readings. Since Garmin releases software on a quarterly basis, it will probably take several weeks before these capabilities are included in a full non-beta version.

Garmin products

Garmin Fenix 8
$1,099.99Buy on Amazon

Garmin Forerunner 265
$446.99Buy on Amazon

Garmin Forerunner 55
~~$199.99~~$182.70Buy on Amazon

Garmin Enduro 3
~~$899.99~~$849.99Buy on Amazon

Garmin Lily 2 Active
$249.99Buy on Amazon
December 29, 2024