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Tag: iphone

  • Temporary free apps for iOS and Android

    Temporary free apps for iOS and Android

    We occasionally choose an intriguing selection of apps for fans of both Android and iPhone, which are often paid for but are currently accessible for free for a little period of time. Take advantage of these amazing discounts on games and apps to expand your device’s app library—just make sure to act quickly!

    We cannot guarantee how long these promotions will remain available on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, so please keep in mind that they are just temporary. Therefore, it’s best to grab them while you can. Just a gentle warning to be mindful of any potential membership commitments, in-app purchases, and adverts that may accompany them.

    android and ios apps

    Even if you don’t require an app right away, install it if it piques your curiosity. It will be added to your app library and marked as “bought” as a result. After that, you may uninstall the app straight from your phone and get it back for free anytime you need it.

    Android Apps and Games

    Android Apps

    • Clock Widget ($0.99): Want to have the time told in words? This widget should do a decent job.
    • TriSolve ($0.99): See math from a different angle (heh!) with this app that helps calculate all things triangles for you.
    • QR and Barcode Scanner ($5.99): Here is a QR reader and barcode scanner code app that will make your life convenient. 
    • DogTok ($2.99): This app claims to be able to help you interact with your dog, but don’t expect to have heart-to-heart conversations with your furkid anytime soon.

    Android Games

    • Undead City: Survivor Premium ($0.99): You are a hero with many skills, and have a city full of hapless people to defend from waves of zombies. Can you do it?
    • Zombie Age 3 ($0.99): The zombie apocalypse is upon you, and you will need to have all your wits with you to survive.
    • Monster Killer Pro Shooter ($0.49): Choose from different characters with varying abilities to shoot monsters from a top-down perspective.
    • Live or Die: Survival Pro ($0.99): It is up to your wits and wisdom to survive an unforgiving environment.
    • Everybody’s RPG ($0.49): Go around, adventurer, recruiting more powerful heroes as you progress in the game to conquer new lands and defeat more dangerous enemies.

    iOS Apps and Games

    iOS Apps

    • Stickyboard 2 ($4.99): Imagine a giant board that lets you play with an unlimited number of sticky notes!
    • Breastfeeding Central ($1.99): A personal breastfeeding helper that you can ‘summon’ regardless of the time of the day (or night!) as it provides you with tips and tricks.
    • Amsterdam Audio Stories ($8.99): Walk through Amsterdam without actually being there, reliving the stories told over your headphones. 
    • Type Freely ($4.99): This app lets you get all your texts written freely, professionally, and shared as an HD image on social media.
    • Pool Calculator ($4.99): If you need help with calculations for your swimming pool or hot tub chemistry maintenance, then this app helps get the right balance on things.

    iPhone games

    • Word Search Creator ($0.99): Looking for a way to engage your audience? Why not come up with your own word search puzzle?
    • Color Lines 98 Bubbles Classic ($1.99): Connect color balls in a row to progress to the next level.
    • DEEMO ($1.99): A mobile rhythm game that requires you to have impeccable timing and a sense of rhythm.
    • Dead Rails ($6.99): If you love railroad networks, then how about navigating a train yourself through intricate rail networks while transporting passengers?
    • Tables – Multiplication Drills ($0.99): I have always been an advocate for practice makes perfect in math, and the same applies when it comes to mastering multiplication.

    We advise you to review the app’s details in the Play Store or App Store before downloading any of the aforementioned apps. This is crucial since some of these free apps can have unique features or drawbacks of their own.

    Both free and paid apps should be avoided since they could have unnoticed in-app purchases and adverts. This is especially important while downloading kid-friendly games.

    In the rapidly evolving world of mobile apps, several companies use cunning tactics to obtain your personal information. But tech buffs, don’t worry! We’ve compiled some crucial advice to help you safeguard your important data. Being selective about the permissions you grant the apps you decide to install is an essential first step.

  • This week’s Android and iOS temporarily free apps

    This week’s Android and iOS temporarily free apps

    Searching for the most amazing offers without breaking the bank? Each week, premium apps and games are available for free download for a brief period of time on both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. Whether you enjoy immersive games, lifestyle apps, or productivity tools, these short-lived sales are the ideal way to add to your collection without breaking the bank.

    The most recent free applications and games for iOS and Android are highlighted in this roundup. It’s a good idea to take advantage of these time-sensitive bargains before they revert back to their normal pricing. We’ll update the list frequently, so you won’t ever miss out on special offers for your preferred mobile devices.

    google play store apps

    Android apps and games

    Apps

    • English Verbs Pro ($3.99): If you want to up your verb game in English, this app will help nudge you forward.
    • Sharks 3D ($0.99): Want a live wallpaper without having to go to the aquarium? See sharks swimming around.
    • Color Wheel ($1.99): Any graphic designer or artist would definitely want to have this app at their disposal in selecting the most accurate color possible.
    • Rotation Control ($0.99): I guess this is useful for older devices that do not have built-in rotation controls.
    • 3D Anatomy ($2.99): This looks like a rather nifty app to help people get familiar with the human anatomy.

    Games

    • SPHAZE ($0.99): A sci-fi puzzle game that tickles your imagination while featuring great-looking graphics.
    • Empire Warriors: Tower Defense ($0.99): A tower defense game with cartoonish graphics that will surely keep you peeled.
    • Survival Island: Evolve Pro ($0.49): You’re marooned on an island and need to make sure you can do the necessary to remain alive.
    • Word Connect Crossword ($2.99): If you love words, then this crossword variant will keep you entertained. 

    iOS apps and games

    Apps

    • Haplo AI ($4.99): An offline chat AI that keeps your conversations private.
    • 3D Anatomy ($2.99): If you’re curious to get up close and personal with the human anatomy, then this app can help.
    • Sprite Pencil ($1.99): Come up with amazing pixel art using this app, although some patience is required. 
    • Magic Emoji ($1.99): You can call this an emoji kitchen, where various emojis can be merged to create a new one.

    Games

    • Peg Pals Pro ($1.99): A fast yet relaxing puzzle game that will keep your brain occupied during pockets of idle time.
    • Animal Math Games School Ed ($12.99): A game for the little ones who want to pick up math.
    • Cypher Vocab ($0.99): A GRE vocabulary game to help build up your word power. 
    • Fiete Choice ($2.99): Want to keep your little ones occupied? This game will garner their attention.

    The deals were active on the day of publication. Please leave a comment below if you come across an expired deal.

    Before downloading any of the aforementioned apps, we advise you to review the app’s details in the App Store or Play Store. Because some of these free programs might offer unique features or drawbacks of their own, this is crucial.

    Both free and paid apps should be avoided since they could have unnoticed in-app purchases and adverts. This is especially important while downloading kid-friendly games. In the rapidly evolving world of mobile apps, numerous companies use cunning tactics to obtain your personal information. But tech buffs, don’t worry! We’ve compiled some crucial advice to help you safeguard your important data. Being selective about the permissions you grant the apps you decide to install is an essential first step.

    Discover the wide range of free apps that are accessible on the iOS and Android operating systems, all while protecting your data.

  • Update Now! the fix for critical WhatsApp bug that allows hackers to spy on iPhones is live

    Update Now! the fix for critical WhatsApp bug that allows hackers to spy on iPhones is live

    You should be aware that not everyone using WhatsApp is safe. Meta has alerted users to a significant security vulnerability that hackers used to launch a sophisticated, focused malware campaign that compromised dozens of WhatsApp accounts. This is why it’s important and why you should upgrade the app right now.

    In order to fix a vulnerability that was exploited in conjunction with another weakness in Apple devices, WhatsApp declared on Friday that it has released an emergency patch for its messaging program on iOS and Mac. According to reports, a week before WhatsApp’s upgrade, Apple resolved the security flaw in its devices.

    whatsapp bug fix

    Why is this so dangerous?

    Hackers reportedly used a well-known zero-click attack—a technique that compromises a device without requiring user interaction—to successfully exploit both vulnerabilities. In certain situations, a victim might get a link or image from an attacker, who might then take control of the device and run malicious code to spy on or steal private data without the victim having to click.

    Meta acknowledged notifying dozens of people it thought were the campaign’s target. A copy of the alert message, which detailed the reason for the warning and the next steps, was posted on X by the head of the security company Amnesty Tech. The notification suggested that victims reset their device to factory defaults.

    We’ve made changes to prevent this specific attack from occurring through WhatsApp. However, your device’s operating system could remain compromised by the malware or targeted in other ways.
    To best protect yourself, we recommend a full device factory reset. We also strongly urge you to keep your devices updated to the latest version of the operating system, and ensure that your WhatsApp app is up to date.

    Meta

    These kinds of advertisements have already targeted WhatsApp users. Similar zero-day exploits have been connected in the past to monitoring operations targeting prominent people, such as journalists and politicians.

    What should you do to be safe?

    Even though only a small percentage of WhatsApp users were impacted, others should still be concerned about this attack. Installing the most recent security update for your Apple device and updating WhatsApp on your Mac and iPhone are highly advised.

    Even while Android users aren’t being targeted by this operation, they could still be at risk due to the same WhatsApp flaws. They should also install the most recent Android security patch and update to the most recent version of WhatsApp. Users who believe they may be in danger can manually activate new features like Advanced Device Protection, which provide an additional layer of security.

  • Editing RCS Messages sent to iPhones is now possible for some Android users

    Editing RCS Messages sent to iPhones is now possible for some Android users

    Text communications between iOS and Android users has historically proven more often than not problematic. However, new modifications are facilitating communication between the two platforms. After years of Google trying to convince Apple to adopt the new communications standard, RCS, the company is finally doing so.

    Users on both systems can share high-quality media, be “seen” when messages are read, and detect typing activity thanks to RCS. However, up until now, there hasn’t been a way to alter messages sent from an Android device to an iPhone. According to Android Authority, some Android users are now starting to notice it.

    edit rcs message

    Apple recently added RCS support

    For over a year, editing messages has been possible for Android-to-Android chats using RCS and iPhone-to-iPhone chats using iMessage. Because message editing was not included in the official RCS standard, Universal Profile 2.4, this feature was not available between iOS and Android. The standard was embraced by Apple, but this resulted in cross-platform conversations lacking the edit option.

    The GSM Association published Universal Profile 3.0 earlier this year, which includes end-to-end encryption and message editing. As a result, if the iPhones are running iOS 18.5 or later, including the iOS 26 beta, some Android users can now edit messages sent to iPhone users.

    It operates by requiring modifications to be performed within a 15-minute interval. Since Apple’s Messages app does not yet fully support this feature, the updated message appears on iPhones as a new message with an asterisk.

    Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

  • Get up to $524 for your Google Pixel 6a

    Get up to $524 for your Google Pixel 6a

    With Google’s surprise and abrupt hike in trade-in prices, now is an excellent time to exchange your damaged Pixel 6a for $524. You won’t find a better deal elsewhere.

    The Pixel 6a’s battery will be throttled by a necessary update that Google is releasing on July 8th, for those who are unaware. This is a reaction to earlier this year’s allegations of phones overheating. The Pixel 4a experienced a similar issue, and the upgrade eventually reduced the phone’s battery life to a few hours.

    According to Google, the Pixel 6a’s battery capacity will be lowered after 400 charge cycles or if the device is found to be impacted by the issue. Depending on where you live, the search company will replace your battery for free. But, utilizing the greatest trade-in offer I’ve seen this year is a better choice.

    Google U.K. introduced a new campaign last week that increases trade-in pricing, meaning that phones that are effectively dead will get a sizable payoff. The regular Pixel 9 costs up to £675 ($920.50), the Pixel 9 Pro and XL versions cost £820 ($1118.24), and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold costs £1,045 ($1425.07). In addition to its standard trade-in assessments, Google claims that this adds a bonus of between £200 ($272.58) and £400 ($545.16).

    google pixel 6a battery flaw jpg

    Google will give you more money for your old phone

    google pixel 9 pro amazon deal

    Google Pixel 9 Pro

    Pixel 9 Pro with Gemini is the most powerful Pixel yet, and now comes in two sizes; it has a pro-level camera and it’s engineered by Google, so it gets the best of Google AI first

    $999.00$749.00Amazon

    The company will pay £384 ($523.78) for your Pixel 6a. You won’t get anything like that for a Pixel 6a unless you con someone on eBay by sending them a broken Pixel 6a instead of an iPhone 14 (don’t do that). This is a good offer that I haven’t seen from Google or any other manufacturer before, if you’re not put off by their battery-related antics.

    • Google Pixel 7 Pro – £454 ($618.75)
    • Google Pixel 6 Pro – £415 ($565.60)
    • Google Pixel 5 – £377 ($513.81)
    • Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max – £657 ($895.42)
    • Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max – £447 ($609.21)
    • Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra – £517 ($704.62)
    • Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus – £373 ($508.36)

    Google releases the battery restricting update on July 8th, which also happens to be the day the offer finishes. But don’t worry, there will be more in the future given the scope and regularity of Google, Samsung, and Amazon’s promotional offers.

  • According to EU data, Samsung phones support twice as many charges as the Pixel and iPhone.

    According to EU data, Samsung phones support twice as many charges as the Pixel and iPhone.

    We are especially concerned about battery health because Google recently announced that its Battery Performance Program for the Pixel 6a will begin next week. Although it may seem strange to consider your smartphone a consumable, that is essentially what it is, and each time we put one of our gadgets through a complete charge cycle, the batteries get a little worse for wear. You’ll start to notice those losses if you repeat that process hundreds and hundreds of times.

    Not all batteries are made equal, which is something that the whole controversy surrounding the Pixel 4a and now Pixel 6a has really brought home to us. The issue is that we typically only hear about battery-operated devices that cause issues years later. When you first buy a phone, isn’t there a good way to set your expectations for battery life? We recently received one, as expected.

    The European Union, and more especially its new energy label program, is to thank for this regulation, as it is for many other recent consumer-benefitting smartphone laws. These marks help convey power efficiency, hardware durability, and—most importantly for today’s discussion—a rating for the number of charge cycles the phone should be able to withstand, just like you might see an Energy Star rating on a new appliance.

    Are you curious about how the battery life of your phone stacks up against the competition? We created this graphic to illustrate how many charge cycles these labels promote for a few well-known products because we have been curious ourselves.

    samsung galaxy s25 ultra

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

    Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-friendly vegan restaurant nearby and text it to your friend— your Galaxy S25 Ultra handles multiple tasks with a single ask.

    $1,419.99$1,219.99Amazon
    samsung energy label

    Google

    • 1,000 charge cycles: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9a, Pixel 8a

    Samsung

    • 2,000 charge cycles: Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25 Edge, Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 FE, Galaxy A56, Galaxy A36, Galaxy XCover7, Galaxy XCover7 Pro, Galaxy Tab Active5, Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro, Galaxy Tab S10 Plus, Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S10 FE, Galaxy Tab S10 FE Plus
    • 1,200 charge cycles: Galaxy A26, Galaxy A16

    Fairphone

    • 1,300 charge cycles: Fairphone 5
    • 1,000 charge cycles: Fairphone (Gen. 6)

    Motorola

    • 1,200 charge cycles: Edge 50, Edge 50 Neo
    • 1,000 charge cycles: Razr 60, Razr 60, Ultra, Edge, 60, Edge 60 Pro, Moto G86, Moto G75, Moto G56, Moto G35, Moto G15, Moto G15 Power, Moto G05, Moto E15
    • 800 charge cycles: Moto G55

    Nothing

    • 1,400 charge cycles: Phone 3, Phone 3a, Phone 3a Pro, CMF Phone 2 Pro,

    OnePlus

    • 1,200 charge cycles: OnePlus 13R
    • 1,000 charge cycles: OnePlus 13

    Sony

    • 1,400 charge cycles: Xperia 1 VII

    All of these numbers have been confirmed by the European Product Registry for Energy Labeling of the EU. We’ve gone through the entire database and included even more gadgets you might find useful, thanks to Reddit user FragmentedChicken for compiling an early version of this list.

    Wondering how things stand with the batteries on the other side of the platform fence? We also looked up the ratings for Apple products, and every device in the EU system, including the iPad Air M3 and iPhone 16 Pro Max, has a 1,000 charge cycle rating.

    Right now, the vast majority of devices fall in the 1,000–1,400 cycle range. So how did Samsung manage to push so many of its phones and tablets up to 2,000 cycles? That is a very, very good question, and we would love to see a more technical analysis into how these numbers are put together, and just how accurately they may reflect real-world conditions. And what impact does different battery chemistry, like the silicon-carbon battery in the OnePlus 13, have on the cycle count?

    This database offers a great jumping-off point, but we would sure love to see a whole lot more battery information provided by the manufacturers behind these devices.

    samsung galaxy s25 ultra

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

    Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-friendly vegan restaurant nearby and text it to your friend— your Galaxy S25 Ultra handles multiple tasks with a single ask.

    $1,419.99$1,219.99Amazon

    Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

  • #freebies time – temporarily free apps and games for Android and iOS

    #freebies time – temporarily free apps and games for Android and iOS

    Everyone enjoys a good bargain, particularly when it allows them to get high-quality Android games and apps without having to pay a thing. The Google Play Store occasionally offers highly regarded apps for free for a brief period of time, whether your goal is to increase productivity, try out new tools, or simply pass the time with an entertaining game.

    We have hand-picked the newest Android games and applications that are now available for free download in this roundup. But move quickly! These deals only last for a brief period of time, after which they are no longer available. Let us get started and discover what treasures are available this week!

    hyper os update system apps

    Android Apps and Games Available for Free–Limited Time Offer

    Free Android Apps

    Free Android Games

    • Orbit XL ($0.99): Try to remain in orbit without getting sucked into a void!
    • Empire Defender ($0.99): This is a tower defense game that will certainly keep you on your toes all the time.
    • Stickman Master Premium ($1.99): A side-scrolling action adventure game that sees you wade your way through waves of enemies.
    • WindWings ($0.49): A frantic shoot ’em up that requires fast reflexes and keen hand-eye coordination to survive.
    • Defense Zone 2 HD ($2.99): A tower defense game set in a futuristic setting with endless waves of enemies.

    iOS Apps and Games Available for Free–Limited Time Offer

    Free iOS Apps

    • Navigate to Photo ($0.99): This is an interesting app, letting you navigate to the place depicted in a photo using its location data.
    • English Alphabet: Letter ABC ($2.99): Want to learn English from scratch? Why not begin with the alphabet?
    • Roast Beef ($0.99): Music production will never be the same again with this special app for the musically inclined.
    • Barcode + QR Code Reader ($0.99): If you want another third-party app to scan QR codes, then this might be just the thing for you.

    Free Games for the iPhone and iPad

    • Bloom Sort ($14.99): A relaxing sorting merge puzzle game that won’t leave you tearing your hair out in frustration.
    • Thrones War ($0.99): A mini ancient strategy game that requires you to put on your thinking cap to obtain victory.
    • Bigfoot Quest ($2.99): A puzzle adventure game that is sure to keep your children engaged as they attempt to solve puzzles.
    • Puncha Not See ($0.99): Contrary to popular belief, you will be able to punch your way through different situations in life.

    A Quick Heads-Up Before You Download

    While these apps and games are temporarily free, it’s always smart to read the fine print. Some may include in-app purchases or ads that can affect your experience, especially in free versions. Others might only offer basic features for free while encouraging you to upgrade later. Be sure to check reviews and permissions before installing, and keep an eye on the original price — some “discounted” apps are free more often than not.

    Still, this is a great chance to explore new tools, games, and utilities without breaking the bank. Grab what interests you before the deals expire, and make the most of your Android experience!

  • Best budget smartphone you can buy in 2025 – under $400

    Best budget smartphone you can buy in 2025 – under $400

    In 2025, the budget smartphone market is more competitive than ever, offering impressive features, solid performance, and sleek designs at wallet-friendly prices. Whether you’re a student, a casual user, or just someone who loves getting the best value for money, there’s a perfect device out there for you. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best budget smartphones you can buy in 2025 — all under $400 — that deliver big on performance without the premium price tag.

    This is a thorough guide to the top smartphones under $400, which include features like outstanding cameras, slick 120 Hz screens, and potent gaming-ready SoCs with 5G.

    Google Pixel 7a – great camera, good battery life and updates

    Google Pixel 7a 1

    With 128 GB of storage, the Google Pixel 7a, which was released on May 10, 2023, costs less than $400 on Amazon. Its Tensor G2 processor, which Google has included, improves the performance of machine learning-based features, making it a great option for anyone looking for a small Google phone in 2025.​

    Among smartphones under $400, the Pixel 7a stood out with a 5-star rating in our assessment. It is the most affordable model in the Pixel 7 series, with features including wireless charging, 8 GB of RAM, and a refresh rate of 90 Hz.

    With a 64 MP primary camera, a 13 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 13 MP selfie camera, the camera system has been much improved over its predecessor. Google’s sophisticated camera software guarantees that images captured with the Pixel 7a uphold the Pixel series’ excellent quality standards.

    pixel 7a from Amazon

    Google Pixel 7a

    Pixel 7a has a 24-hour battery life and supports fast charging up to 72 hours with Extreme Battery Saver turned on.

    $499.00$327.00Buy on Amazon

    Apple iPhone SE (2022) – if you are in the Apple ecosystem

    Apple iPhone SE (2022) budget phone under $400

    It is difficult to choose an Apple product under $400, but we firmly believe that the iPhone SE (2022) is the best option. Apple essentially discontinued the SE range in 2025 with the release of the iPhone 16e (review). Apple’s entry-level model is now the 16e, the company’s first new name since the 2020 “mini.”

    Currently, the iPhone SE (2022) is only available through online retailers like Amazon. This budget iPhone features the powerful A15 Bionic chip, although it brings minimal upgrades compared to its predecessor. It offers a 12MP camera within a casing nearly identical to the iPhone SE (2020)—which itself resembles older models like the iPhone 8, 7, and 6s—and includes IP67 water resistance.

    The most notable enhancement is 5G connectivity, which puts the iPhone SE (2022) on par with other smartphones under $400 on this list, aside from the improved SoC and more RAM (4 GB). After testing, we discovered that, despite certain issues, the gadget is still a great option for iPhone purchasers on a tight price.

    Software support for the iPhone SE (2022), including complete iOS updates and security fixes, should last until roughly 2027 or 2028, according to Apple’s past trends. However, based on Apple’s future choices, precise timetables might change.

    apple iphone se

    2022 Apple iPhone SE

    Advanced single-camera system with 12MP Wide camera; Smart HDR 4, Photographic Styles, Portrait mode, and 4K video up to 60 fps

    Good choice
    $429.00$389.00Buy on Amazon

    Samsung Galaxy A35 – for Samsung lovers

    Surprisingly, Samsung chose not to distribute its well-liked Galaxy A55 in the US in 2024. As a mid-range substitute, the company instead unveiled the less expensive Galaxy A35.

    In actuality, both models offer balanced camera capabilities, dependable battery life, and comprehensive software support, making them very comparable in terms of performance and specifications. The Exynos 1380 processor, which was used in the previous Galaxy A54 model, ensures seamless performance for daily use and light gaming on the A35.

    Samsung has committed to providing software upgrades for the Galaxy A35 through 2029, making it the phone with the longest security support on this list. Although some more recent models provide even longer support, none of them now live up to this promise at this price point.

    samsung a35 budget phone

    Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

    6.6” FHD+ Super AMOLED w/Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ – Resolution 1080 x 2340 pixels
    256GB 8GB RAM – MicroSD up to 1TB

    $319.99Buy on Amazon

    Nothing Phone (2a) – great battery life

    nothing phone 2a

    Nothing’s newest low-cost smartphone, the Phone (2a), has a great design and well-balanced specs, making it one of the most attractive mid-range phones.

    It delivers endurance with four years of security patches and three guaranteed Android updates, together with a positive user experience with Nothing OS. Although the most recent Snapdragon chipset is not included, performance remains dependable.

    The Phone (2a) has the longest battery life in its pricing range thanks to its large 5000 mAh battery that supports 45W rapid charging. The remarkable 17 hours and 2 minutes of runtime that our battery testing revealed allowed for comfortable two days of use between charges and comparatively quick recharging.

    The primary compromise is the camera’s poor quality, especially in dimly lit areas. With its appealing screen, reliable performance, and very long battery life, the Nothing Phone (2a) is a well-rounded mid-range choice.

    nothing phone 2a 1

    Nothing Phone (2a)

    Nothing phone (2a) boasts Co-engineered with MediaTek,the custom Dimensity 7200 Pro processor delivers the best performance with optimal power consumption.
    NOTE:Only these carriers’ 5G network bands are supported,please check the bands before buying: T-Mobile n41,n66; AT&T n5,n66; Google Fi n41; Verizon Wireless n5,n38,n66; Cricket Wireless n5.

    $414.54Buy on Amazon

    Criteria for Selection

    Our crew has carefully tested the top picks for our list of the best smartphones under $400, and we have added extra mentions to help you make an informed choice. Although this guide focuses on key aspects, I strongly advise reading our in-depth reviews before making a purchase.

    We mainly took into account regular consumers looking for a balance between cost and usefulness while making this budget-friendly choice. To make sure you are selecting the greatest smartphone, I advise you to look over our larger list of top smartphones if flagship-level features or cutting-edge performance are important to you.

    User Experience (UX). Smartphones priced around $400 often provide reliable performance for daily work, multimedia consumption, and casual gaming. Expect CPUs from the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 series or MediaTek Dimensity range, which offer outstanding value even though they are not the most recent generation.

    Battery life and display quality are also important. We selected smartphones with batteries ranging from 4,500 to 5,000 mAh, which can last a full day. While charging speeds in this price range are moderate, often between 10W and 15W in the United States, these devices provide adequate endurance. Display technology is constantly advancing, with many devices offering Full HD+ resolutions and refresh rates of up to 120 Hz, including the increasingly popular OLED screens.

    Although the camera’s performance is suitable for most daily uses, there are certain limits to consider. Higher-megapixel sensors are common, although their quality differs greatly from flagship models. We suggest care when using multi-camera systems, as extra lenses such as macro or depth sensors may have limited practical applications.

    Software and carrier compatibility are other important issues. Smartphones in this category often receive fewer software updates—one to two major Android versions after launch—so double-check the device’s update policy before purchase. Additionally, check compatibility with your carrier, especially if purchasing unlocked smartphones.

  • Limited time offer! Temporarly free apps for Android and iOS

    Limited time offer! Temporarly free apps for Android and iOS

    Google and Apple’s app marketplaces, the Play Store and the App Store, include an almost limitless amount of apps. Some of these apps are free, while others cost money. However, many users are unaware that many paid programs are briefly offered for free as part of a special deal. We have compiled a list of the most fascinating apps now accessible for free.

    google pixel apps

    For Android

    • Netzsignal Pro: Wi-Fi & 5G ($0.49): If you want to find out more about your network signal, you can’t go past this app. Not only does it offer outstanding and numerous ratings, but also a clear user interface with many practical functions.
    • Illuminance -Lux Pro ($0.49): This light intensity meter is almost as popular. The app uses your smartphone’s sensors to display the illuminance in the Si unit lux. Users can create separate rooms and analyze the respective lighting conditions.
    • Voice Calculator Pro ($9.99): Calculator apps are a dime a dozen. However, this application stands out from the crowd because it allows you to open several calculation windows at the same time. This means you can start a new calculation without having to delete the old one.
    • Who Uses My Wi-Fi Pro ($0.49): If you don’t know exactly which devices are connected to your Wi-Fi, you should definitely download this app. Not only can you analyze your connected devices, but you can also find devices that have connected to your Wi-Fi.

    For iOS

    • 1Contacts Pro ($0.99): This app gives you full control and, above all, a complete overview of your contacts. Duplicate contacts can also be tracked down and merged if necessary. But beware: If you use this app, you give an additional third-party provider access to your contact data.
    • Queen Rules ($2.99): If you don’t like tower defense games, you can pass the time with this puzzle game. To win, you have to place your soldiers in such a way that they defeat the enemy troops. The app also offers interesting level designs and clay figures.
    • No Wi-Fi Mini Games ($0.99): The name says it all. Downloading the application provides you with access to over 50 exciting and nostalgic mini-games. An Internet connection is not required. The developers have also dispensed with advertising.
    • Aqueduct 101 ($2.99): A creative puzzle game in which you build aqueducts and make water flow. Real fun for puzzle fans and a great way to pass the time.

    Some businesses use innovative techniques to capitalize on your personal information in the rapidly evolving mobile application landscape. But do not worry, computer lovers; we have gathered crucial recommendations to help you protect your valuable data. It is critical that you exercise caution when granting rights to the apps you select to install.

  • Budget smartphone? Best under $400

    Budget smartphone? Best under $400

    Uncertain about which budget smartphone to buy with $400 to spend? With features like 120 Hz screens, top-notch cameras, and gaming-ready SoCs with 5G, we have compiled a list of the best smartphones available for $400 or less. Here are our best choices for cellphones under $400 without further ado.

    Take a look at the table below if you are pressed for time and just want our best pick for a $400 smartphone. Before choosing, read the descriptions below or look through the available reviews for a more thorough understanding of our best choices.

    best budget phones

    Google Pixel 6a

    Although the Google Pixel 6a has been on sale since July 21, 2022, it is strangely still available on Amazon for $399 with 128 GB. The Pixel 6a appears to be the greatest choice for people looking for a smaller Google phone in 2024 since it is loaded with Google’s proprietary Tensor processor, which improves the performance of machine learning-based functions.

    Even though the phone only has one internal storage choice and a 60 Hz refresh rate, it was already quite obvious from my assessment that it was the best smartphone under $400. Furthermore, among all the smartphones in the Pixel 6 series, the 6a is the most affordable.

    The Pixel 6a has a very basic camera suite module, but considering that Google’s main strength is its camera software, it does not truly fall behind the competition. Thus, you can be certain that the images captured with the 6a will have the quality seal of the Pixel series.

    pixel 6a on Amazon

    Google Pixel 6a

    The Google Pixel 6a has been available for purchase since July 21, 2022, but surprisingly the device can be found on Amazon for less than $399 with 128 GB.

    Best pick
    $349.00$329.99Buy now

    Consider checking the Google Pixel 7a prices before making a purchase. The device might be available at a similar price on your preferred e-commerce platform.

    Apple iPhone SE (2022)

    Without hesitation, we suggest the iPhone SE (2022) as an Apple substitute. The new low-cost iPhone, which comes two years after the iPhone SE (2020), has a potent A15-bionic but is not much better than the original. A 12MP camera and IP67 resistance are included in a chassis that is quite similar to that of the iPhone SE 2020 (and iPhone 8/7/6s).

    Aside from the SoC (and the additional 4GB of RAM), the true change is 5G connectivity, which enables the device to finally take use of the newest connectivity technologies, just like the other sub-$400 handsets on this list. The iPhone SE (2022), which we have already examined, is undoubtedly a fantastic option for anyone searching for a reasonably priced iPhone.

    iPhone se 2022

    Apple iPhone SE (2022)

    We suggest the iPhone SE (2022) as an Apple substitute. A 12MP camera and IP67 resistance are included.

    Good choice
    $159Buy now

    Samsung Galaxy A35

    Strangely, Samsung decided not to release its top-selling Galaxy A55 model in the US in 2024. The South Korean company replaced it with the less expensive A35 model as a mid-range market substitute.

    In actuality, the two phones are rather comparable in terms of features and performance, offering a comprehensive package that includes cameras, software support, and battery life. Smooth performance for everyday work and even some games is promised by the A35, which inherits the Exynos 1380 CPU from our last suggestion, the Galaxy A54.

    With Samsung guaranteeing patches through 2029, the Galaxy A35 is the phone on this list that will continue to receive security upgrades for a longer period of time. Even longer support is beginning to be promised by more recent phones, but none at this price point.

    samsung a35

    Samsung Galaxy A35

    128GB Unlocked Android Smartphone, AMOLED Display, Advanced Triple Camera System, Expandable Storage, Rugged Design, US Version, 2024

    Good choice
    $399.99Buy on Amazon

    Nothing Phone (2a)

    Nothing’s newest low-cost smartphone is called the Phone (2a). Although its technological specifications are well-balanced, its appearance is what really makes it stand out; according to my colleague Antoine Engels, it is the most attractive mid-range smartphone of 2024.

    The Phone (2a) is the autonomy champion in its price range thanks to its 5000 mAh battery that supports 45 W rapid charging. The smartphone lasted an amazing 17 hours and 2 minutes on our battery assessment. Without recharging your phone, you can easily go two days (2a). Additionally, it has the benefit of charging at a moderate pace.

    The photo quality is not very realistic, especially at night, so I think that is the only major compromise you will have to make. The Nothing Phone (2a) is a well-balanced mid-range smartphone that boasts a stunning screen, respectable performance, and, most importantly, an impressive battery life.

    nothing phone 2

    Nothing Phone (2a)

    Unlocked 5G Android Phone Dimensity 7200 Pro, 50MP Dual Camera Cell Phone, 6.7” AMOLED Display, 5000mAh Battery, NFC

    Very good choice
    $399.50$379.00Buy on Amazon

    Expectations for mobile devices costing up to $400

    In the US, mid-range phones fall somewhere between affordable models and high-end mid-range phones, albeit offering a respectable price-performance ratio. You may discover older or lower-specified devices at this pricing. They may lag in terms of camera, performance, and design even though the majority feature 5G.

    • Power and performance: Investing in a sub-$400 device will at least guarantee that the SoC can tackle the most recent games. Here, you should expect SoC’s that are at least one to two years old and offer good performance for daily tasks.
    • Cameras: In the mid-range, models like the Samsung Galaxy A35 have 50-megapixel main cameras, but don’t match the Galaxy Ultra’s photo quality. The primary issue in this range is with the cameras, especially “Quad cameras” that use low-quality macro and depth sensors. Unfortunately, the telephoto camera often gets compromised.
    • Battery & charging: Batteries in this price range are typically between 4,500 and 5,000 mAh, but charging speeds are subpar. Devices from Honor and Xiaomi offer over 60W fast-charging, but they aren’t available in the US. Here, 10W to 15W is decent. Wireless charging is rare at this price point.
    • Display: In terms of display, we can expect FullHD+ screens with high refresh rates (except for Apple), and OLED displays are getting increasingly popular, with nice color reproduction and impressive contrast levels.
    • Age and support: At this price, be wary of devices older than two years due to limited software updates. Most will receive only one or two updates beyond their initial OS. Hence, Android 10 devices will become outdated after the launch of Android 14 in 2023, for example.
    • Carrier compatibility: In this price range, not all devices are compatible with every carrier. Many are designed for GSM networks, common outside the US. If you’re on a CDMA network like Verizon, ensure compatibility. However, with 4G LTE and 5G, this issue is diminishing.