Instagram's rollout of its new "Rings" awards program has creators scratching their heads, and for good reason. When one of the world's most profitable tech companies hands out jewelry instead of paychecks, you know there's more to the story. To be fair, Instagram's systems do offer real algorithmic benefits beyond bragging rights. The achievement system includes badges for collaboration, trending content usage, and consistent posting, and these milestones can translate to organic r...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When artificial intelligence meets the smartphone market, the battle lines are drawn between two tech giants with very different approaches. Samsung leverages its massive global reach and comprehensive device ecosystem, while Honor focuses on innovative features and accessible pricing. Let’s break down how these brands stack up in the ultimate AI showdown. Samsung packages its artificial intelligence capabilities under the Galaxy AI umbrella, which benefits from the brand’s enormous marke...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The smartphone world just got a lot more interesting, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting Xiaomi to shake things up this dramatically. Xiaomi just dropped a bombshell with the launch of their 17 series—the kind of announcement that makes you sit up. The Xiaomi 17 series was announced on September 25 in China, marking a bold leap into next-generation territory. What really twists the knife, in a good way, is the branding move. Xiaomi is skipping the "Xiaomi 16" name to square up against Apple...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Qualcomm just dropped a bombshell with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, officially unveiled on Sept. 24, 2025, as perhaps the fastest smartphone chip in the world. The naming might catch you off guard. Many expected it to be called the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2, but Qualcomm decided the "Gen" suffix now applies to their entire series, making this the fifth generation. Early benchmarking tests show a clear lead over devices like the Vivo X200 Ultra and Galaxy S25 models, and Tom's Guide's referenc...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Jame Jimenez Meta's latest moves in social media transparency just got interesting. The company is developing a tool that lets users literally "tag" Threads' algorithm to customize their feeds, and this is not just another minor feature tweak. It reads like a change in posture, the kind where platforms stop guessing and start listening. Now here's the thing: most social media algorithms operate like mysterious black boxes. You scroll, you engage, the algorithm learns, and somehow,...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
WhatsApp is finally addressing one of its biggest privacy limitations with the upcoming introduction of usernames, allowing users to connect without revealing their personal phone numbers. The messaging platform is currently gearing up to launch this long-awaited feature, which has been spotted in recent beta versions and represents a major shift from the app's traditional phone number-based identity system. Even more interesting, WhatsApp is introducing a username reservation feature that wi...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The smartphone world just got a lot more interesting. Motorola's latest challenger to Samsung's premium Galaxy S25 Edge popped up in a leaked promo, giving us a first real look at a potential flagship contender. The Edge 70 will depart from the design of recent Edge smartphones like the Edge 60 Pro, a sign Motorola is ready to shake things up when design has felt stuck in place. While an Edge 70 global release date remains unknown for now, the footage shows enough to spark real interest. And ...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Jame Jimenez When it comes to protecting your phone in 2025, you are not just looking at drop protection anymore; you are making a statement about the planet's future. The eco-friendly phone case market is exploding, and for good reason. Industry estimates vary. For example, Grand View Research reported the global mobile phone protective cover market at ~$21.9B (2022) with forecasts to ~$41.4B by 2030 (others give different projections), with sustainable materials driving signific...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Jame Jimenez Instagram's journey to 3 billion monthly active users is more than a flex of big numbers; it is proof that a photo-sharing app grew into one of the world's most influential digital platforms. When Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced this milestone, it marked a significant leap from the 2 billion users reported in 2022. The fascinating part is not just the pace of growth. It is how Instagram reshaped the way we shoot, swipe, and share on our phones, setting the blueprin...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Looking to ditch AT&T? You are not alone. While AT&T remains one of the largest wireless carriers with over 70 million customers, many users are seeking better value, coverage, or features elsewhere. The upside, the wireless market is hotly competitive, with carriers offering everything from satellite connectivity to ultra-budget plans. Carriers are launching satellites and cutting prices to win you over. The old era of being stuck with subpar service because you had no other options,...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The deal everyone's been talking about is finally taking shape. What does it mean for TikTok users, creators, and the broader tech landscape? After months of uncertainty and political maneuvering, the US and China have reached what appears to be a breakthrough agreement on TikTok's future in America. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Americans will hold six of seven board seats overseeing TikTok's U.S. operations, while Oracle will control the app's algorithm under t...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
T-Mobile's digital transformation journey represents one of the most aggressive moves we've seen in the wireless industry recently. T-Mobile says it expects T-Life to handle the majority (or nearly all) of account transactions by 2026 as it embraces a comprehensive digital-first approach that's reshaping how millions of customers interact with their carrier. Not just another app update. A fundamental shift that touches everything from upgrading your phone to managing your account. The company...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
WhatsApp just made communicating across languages ridiculously easy. Engadget reports that the messaging giant is now rolling out message translations on both iOS and Android apps, a big step for more than 3 billion monthly users who chat across borders. The twist, and it matters, is that translations are handled entirely on your device to maintain privacy, so WhatsApp still cannot peek at your encrypted chats. The rollout looks different depending on your phone. iPhone users get far more lan...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Looking at T-Mobile's latest free line promotion feels a bit like watching a magician's performance. The trick lands, the crowd claps, you know there is more happening under the stage. T-Mobile's giving away free lines for eligible customers, but the reality is more nuanced than the headline suggests. The service charge is zero, while customers still pay initial activation, taxes, fees, and the free line often does not qualify for equipment discounts. What's really happening goes beyond simpl...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When Apple announced the iPhone Air, its thinnest phone ever at just 5.64mm thick, the repair community collectively held its breath. Surely this ultra-slim design meant a return to the dark days of glued-together nightmares that required a full phone swap for minor issues. Then iFixit's teardown landed. The revelation is that the iPhone Air doesn't sacrifice repairability for thinness, earning an impressive 7 out of 10 repairability score. For context, it's even thinner than Samsung's Galaxy...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Jame Jimenez WhatsApp just rolled out one of its most requested features, and it’s about time. WhatsApp is now rolling out message translations on its iOS and Android apps, bringing real-time language support directly to your chats. The twist is that translations are handled on your device to help protect your privacy, so WhatsApp still can’t see your encrypted chats. Not a gimmick, a useful fix to a real barrier, done without poking holes in encryption. Platform differences: ...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The mobile industry just witnessed a major leadership shake-up that's bound to reshape one of America's biggest wireless carriers. T-Mobile confirmed that Mike Sievert will step down as CEO on November 1, 2025, with current COO Srinivasan Gopalan taking the helm. This is not just another corporate reshuffle, it signals T-Mobile's shift from aggressive customer growth to premium positioning built on robust fiber infrastructure. The timing stands out, Sievert's contract was set to run until 202...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Nothing's latest widget creation feature is making waves in the Android community, and for good reason. Nothing Phones now let you make your own widgets, and here's the kicker, you can use them not just on Nothing Phones, but on any Android device. The timing is interesting. Google has announced plans to bring back lock screen widgets in Android 16, reviving a feature that disappeared over a decade ago. That sets the stage nicely. Where do we go from here? Nothing's push hints at a shift in h...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The loneliness crisis we’re facing today is staggering. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General labeled loneliness a public health crisis, and the numbers back...| Gadget Hacks
Discover the essential tips and tricks for using Proton Mail, the secure email service that prioritizes your privacy. Learn how to optimize your account...| Gadget Hacks
Unlock the full potential of your Gmail experience with our comprehensive collection of tips and tricks. Whether you're looking to streamline your workflow,...| Gadget Hacks
Join our Smartphones World now to meet up with other cell phone users on the Web. Learn how to set your phones alarm, store calendars on your PDA, sync your iPhone with iTunes, download apps from the Android store, and more. And don't forget to share your own mobile tips and tricks for others in need. - Ask questions in the [/forum/ Forum]. - Share some [/inspiration/ Inspiration]. - Post a [/how-to/ How-To] article. Looking for another interesting topic? Check out all of the other [http://ww...| Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Jame Jimenez Ever since I first unfolded the Galaxy Z Fold 3 in 2021, I have felt something remarkable. Book-style foldables have changed how I relate to mobile tech. What started as curiosity about a strange new shape turned into genuine appreciation for a category built for productivity, flexibility, and features you cannot get from a traditional phone. The best foldable phones in 2025 now arrive with 8-inch AMOLED folding displays that deliver tablet-like experiences in a pocke...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
TikTok's U.S. saga has been a rollercoaster of uncertainty, deadline extensions, and regulatory drama. Here’s the twist. Despite months of political turbulence, TikTok is reportedly building a new version specifically for American users with a targeted launch on September 5, while President Donald Trump has indicated the U.S. has "pretty much" reached a deal for an American company to acquire TikTok's U.S. assets. With Google and Apple both restoring TikTok's listings in app store...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Mark Zuckerberg isn't just talking about the future of technology, he's building it. Meta, led by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, is shifting focus from smartphones to advanced smart glasses and AR devices. This is not a distant sci-fi pitch. The company has been pouring resources into projects like Supernova and Hypernova that aim to enhance digital experiences with versatile smart glasses. And yes, Zuckerberg predicts the end of smartphones by 2030, replaced by smart glasses. That date is closer than ...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Apple's latest iPhone 17 finally brings real change to the standard model. After time with it, this is not another small step. The Independent calls it "one of the biggest upgrades for the regular iPhone in years," and that tracks across the board. With ProMotion on the base model, dual 48MP cameras, and Apple's new A19 chip, it feels like the most compelling entry-level flagship Apple has made in a while. Bottom line: the iPhone most people should buy Let's keep it simple. The iPho...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Looking at Trump Mobile's original promises, you could be forgiven for getting excited about an American-made smartphone that could compete with the big players and support domestic manufacturing. The Trump Organization's T1 Phone launched with bold claims about being "MADE IN THE USA" and bringing smartphone production back to American soil. Then the messaging shifted, the big talk faded from the website, and the reality of smartphone manufacturing caught up. The story of Trump Mob...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When early reviews started dropping, one thing became crystal clear: Apple's latest flagship duo is the most ambitious design transformation from Cupertino in years. Launching on Friday, September 19, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max push past the usual yearly polish. Not a tune-up, a rethink of what a Pro iPhone can be. The most immediately striking change? Apple's decision to abandon titanium for aluminum construction, enabling that head-turning cosmic orange color that breaks from Apple's tra...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The flagship smartphone battle is heating up again, and if you’re torn between Apple’s latest iPhone 17 Pro and Google’s Pixel 10 Pro, you’re not alone. Apple has done a thing with this release, stepping past the routine cycle to give the Pro line a new sense of direction. Meanwhile, Google launched the Pixel 10 Series with new features powered by the Google Tensor G5 processor. Both phones push forward, but they chase flagship greatness in different ways. Here is the split. Apple is ...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Your smartphone's next battery upgrade is already happening in electric cars, and it is about to make dead phone anxiety a thing of the past. You have been plugging in every night. Meanwhile, researchers have been perfecting silicon-based battery technology that could change how long your device lasts and how fast it charges. The connection between electric vehicle batteries and smartphone power might sound unlikely at first, yet there is a live technology transfer happening right now. Silico...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
If you’ve ever wondered whether your smartphone could be more ruthless about getting you out of bed, wonder no more. The mobile app landscape now includes alarms that refuse to snooze until you prove you are awake. Alarmy, nicknamed "Sleep If You Can," is one of the boldest versions, asking you to finish tasks before silence returns. Here is the kicker, research shows that wake-up tasks are tied to completing target behaviors and trimming the time it takes to feel truly awake. Tas...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The flagship smartphone battle is heating up again, and this time it’s personal. With Apple rolling out the iPhone 17 and Google preparing the Pixel 10, we are looking at what could be the most compelling entry-level flagship showdown in years. Both phones are expected to launch at the same $800 price point. Less premium posturing, more real value for people who want flagship features without the Pro tax. What makes this round intriguing? For the first time, the iPhone 17 will offer 120Hz r...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Two titans step into 2025 with swagger, long memories, and sharper elbows. Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max chases higher performance and smarter cameras, while Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra arrived earlier this year packing the Snapdragon 8 Elite and an S Pen for serious note takers. The iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,199, the Galaxy S25 Ultra at $1,299.99. So what are you really choosing? Apple, with an ecosystem-first playbook that leans on seamless handoffs and computational photography. Or Samsung...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The mobile industry is shifting in a way that could change how we think about phone service forever. We used to walk into carrier stores or dial customer support to set up plans. Now apps can activate mobile service on the spot, no carrier visit required. Carrier billing and e-wallets will be worth $60 billion globally in 2025, and superapps are multifunctional platforms that integrate messaging, payments, e-commerce and more. Put those together and you get a new ecosystem where your next pho...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When Bethlehem High School in Upstate New York banned students' cellphones and started offering analog entertainment, it sparked a culture change you could notice even with your eyes closed. "Our cafeteria is loud again," social studies teacher David Rounds observed. Then it got interesting. Students did not just accept these bans, they adapted in ways few predicted. Young people are turning to legacy technology such as MP3 players and cassette players to fill the digital void. A si...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Apple and Samsung have entered an absolutely fascinating phase of their ongoing rivalry, where traditional performance expectations are being turned upside down. For years, iPhone users could confidently claim single-core superiority, while Samsung fought back with more RAM and feature-packed specs. Now the latest benchmark results are telling a different story that is reshaping the entire smartphone performance landscape. Wild, right? Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra just scored 10,223 in multi-co...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When your smartphone screen feels more like looking at printed paper than a glowing display, you know something revolutionary is happening. The TCL NXTPAPER 60 Ultra represents the first smartphone equipped with the latest version of NXTPAPER technology, and early reviews suggest it just might be a favorite smartphone display of all time. With NXTPAPER 4.0 featuring a redesigned substrate and nano-matrix lithography application to enhance brightness and color accuracy, this is not just anothe...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Apple's about to make its biggest battery leap in iPhone history, and the numbers are genuinely impressive. The iPhone 17 Pro Max will see an iPhone break the 5000mAH barrier for the first time, topping out at 5088 mAH, which puts it squarely in flagship Android territory. And here is the kicker: the 5088 number is in the ballpark of high-end Android phones, but iPhones generally run much more efficiently as well. Big cell, bigger payoff. If reports hold, the iPhone 17 Pro Max's larger batter...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Here's what really matters after nearly a year with the iPhone 16: it's aged remarkably well. While tech reviewers were busy debating specs at launch, real users found something more important, this phone just keeps delivering, day after day, month after month. The iPhone 16 is not just holding up. It is proving that Apple built something genuinely lasting this time around. People adapt. Long term users take short breaks during intense tasks, avoid direct sun when possible, or accept that pea...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
If you've been holding off on upgrading your iPhone, the iPhone 17 Pro lineup might just change your mind. It could be Apple's biggest performance leap in years. About time, right? The buzz around Apple's upcoming flagship is not just marketing hype, multiple industry analysts are reporting that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will pack 12GB of RAM. That is a 50% increase in memory, the largest single-generation RAM jump in iPhone history. What is driving it? Apple's growing commitment to Apple...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir The iPhone 17 pricing debate has reached a fever pitch, and frankly, it's unlike anything I've seen in my years covering...| Gadget Hacks
Join our Smartphones World now to meet up with other cell phone users on the Web. Learn how to set your phones alarm, store calendars on your PDA, sync your iPhone with iTunes, download apps from the Android store, and more. And don't forget to share your own mobile tips and tricks for others in need. - Ask questions in the [/forum/ Forum]. - Share some [/inspiration/ Inspiration]. - Post a [/how-to/ How-To] article. Looking for another interesting topic? Check out all of the other [http://ww...| Gadget Hacks
When you think about YouTube's biggest star jumping into mobile services, it might sound like another celebrity cash grab. But MrBeast reportedly plans to launch a phone company next year, and this isn't your typical influencer side hustle. With Beast Industries valued at over $5 billion and Feastables generating millions monthly, Jimmy Donaldson is betting big on diversification into tech. The mobile industry is already experiencing an unprecedented celebrity invasion, but MrBeast's entry co...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir Vivo has been quietly building something special in smartphone photography, and their latest move might just shake up the entire industry. The X200 series represents more than just another camera upgrade—it's a bold statement that mobile photography can rival traditional cameras. With their partnership with Zeiss deepening and hardware that's genuinely groundbreaking, Vivo is positioning itself to challenge the big three in ways we haven't seen before. Here's w...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
YouTube's biggest star is making another bold business move. MrBeast reportedly plans to launch a phone company, joining a growing trend of celebrity cell service brands that are reshaping the mobile industry. This isn't just another celebrity endorsement deal—it's part of a calculated expansion that could redefine how we think about mobile technology and fan engagement. What makes this particularly intriguing is Jimmy Donaldson's proven ability to transform unconventional business ideas in...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
You've probably heard the buzz about satellite messengers lately—especially with Apple adding emergency SOS features to iPhones. But here's the thing: satellite messaging has become our go-to means of staying connected in areas without cell service, and these devices now pack in way more functionality than just emergency calls. We're talking location sharing, GPS navigation, weather reporting, and more. The real question isn't whether this tech is cool (it definitely is), but whether you ac...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir The foldable phone market has become an engineering battleground where millimeters determine winners, and Honor just scored a decisive victory. The company's latest Magic V5 foldable has officially claimed the title of world's thinnest foldable at just 8.8mm when folded, but there's a fascinating physics compromise that reveals the current limitations of smartphone engineering. The phone measures just 4.1mm thick when unfolded and weighs only 217g, making it impr...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir The Honor Magic V5 has officially arrived, and it's making some bold claims. Honor is calling this the world's thinnest foldable phone at just 8.8mm when folded—a remarkable feat of engineering that pushes the boundaries of what we thought possible in the foldable space. But here's the thing about superlatives in tech: they're only as good as the real-world experience they deliver. What makes this launch particularly intriguing is the timing. Honor couldn't jus...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Corey Noles Instagram's DM overhaul is finally here, and it's about time. For creators drowning in hundreds of daily message requests, the platform's new inbox management tools represent a significant shift in how we handle digital communication at scale. Instagram announced these updates after hearing from creators worldwide about the overwhelming nature of managing their inboxes. The new features let creators filter message requests by follower count, verified accounts, brands, ...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When you fire up your Kindle and see that familiar screen, there's one feature that transforms the entire reading experience from good to absolutely game-changing: Libby integration. Libby connects you with your library's digital collection, turning your e-reader into a gateway to thousands of free books. What makes this combination so powerful? Libby enables sending borrowed books directly to Kobo or Kindle devices, creating a seamless bridge between your local library and your personal read...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Corey Noles Qualcomm's chip naming has been confusing enough over the years, but if the latest rumors prove true, we're about to enter uncharted territory of semiconductor branding chaos. Last year, the company surprised everyone by launching the Snapdragon 8 Elite instead of the expected Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, marking a significant departure from their established naming pattern. Now here's where things get truly bewildering – fresh leaks suggest we might see both a Snapdragon 8 G...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Corey Noles TikTok just dropped what might be its biggest messaging update yet, and honestly, it's about time. The platform recently announced that everyone can now DM each other with voice memos and pictures—a massive shift from the friend-only restrictions we've lived with for years. This opens entirely new revenue streams for creators and transforms TikTok from entertainment platform to comprehensive communication hub. Here's what makes this so significant: Previously, only p...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When your phone suddenly displays "SOS" instead of your carrier's name, it's more than just an inconvenience—it's a complete communication breakdown. Verizon customers across the United States experienced exactly this scenario when a software issue triggered a massive outage, leaving more than 23,000 customers without cellular service on what should have been an ordinary day. The outage affected calls, texts, and mobile data, sparking frustration on social media platforms and trac...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The mobile gaming landscape just shifted dramatically, and it's all thanks to AYN's latest announcement. AYN officially confirmed that the Odin 3 is the first gaming handheld powered by Qualcomm's cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. What started as a simple teaser image on Instagram has evolved into something much bigger—and this specific processor choice signals a major shift in what's possible for portable gaming performance. Early rumors from September 2024 suggested the Odin 3 mi...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Corey Noles The world of foldable smartphones just got its most ambitious entry yet, and Huawei's making sure everyone knows about it. After months of exclusive availability in China, the world's first tri-fold smartphone is finally expanding globally. We're talking about a device that literally transforms from a standard phone into a massive tablet with not one, but two hinges working in perfect harmony. The Mate XT Ultimate Design isn't just another incremental upgrade in the fo...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir When you think about the explosive rise of Threads, it's pretty remarkable what Meta managed to pull off. The platform racked up 100 million users in its first week and now sits at 175 million monthly active users as of mid-2024. But here's what's really interesting—they're not stopping there. Meta is quietly testing something that could completely reshape text-based social media: long-form text capabilities. Now, you might be wondering why this matters when Th...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Corey Noles Smartphone manufacturers are making a fascinating pivot. After years of racing to pack as many cameras as possible into their devices—chasing ever-higher megapixel counts and adding lens after lens—the industry is now embracing a more sophisticated approach. What you're witnessing is the emergence of quality-first camera design, and this shift represents more than just a trend. It's a fundamental reimagining of what mobile photography can achieve. What's driving th...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Honor has just reclaimed the crown for the world's thinnest foldable smartphone with the Magic V5, and frankly, it's about time someone shook up the foldable market with meaningful innovation rather than incremental tweaks. At just 8.8 millimeters thick when folded, this device isn't just setting records—it's demonstrating what happens when engineering ambition meets practical user needs. Honor officially launched the Magic V5 in China and is bringing it to Europe in late August, marking th...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The iPhone isn't just outpacing the competition—it's practically carrying the entire smartphone industry on its back. While other major brands struggle with flat or declining sales, Apple's latest iPhone models are driving unexpected growth in a market that many analysts had written off as saturated. Let's break down what's really happening behind these surprising numbers and what it means for the future of mobile technology. Apple's iPhone shipments increased 12% annually during Q3 2024, d...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir The budget smartphone market just got a lot more interesting. TCL dropped something at CES 2025 that's making me rethink what we actually need from our pocket devices. The TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G isn't just another affordable Android phone—it's TCL's first smartphone to feature NXTPAPER 4.0, marking a legitimate attempt to merge your smartphone and e-reader into one device that won't murder your eyes in the process. What you need to know: • Price that actually ...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir Switching to a Verizon-powered prepaid plan used to mean kissing goodbye to reliable international coverage. But a wave of recent upgrades is changing that equation in ways that could save you hundreds on your next overseas adventure. Here's what's driving the change: Visible doubled its international roaming data to 2GB per day in Canada and Mexico, while Total Wireless now includes roaming in over 15 countries on its unlimited plans. Meanwhile, TracFone added h...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Corey Noles You're running Apple's China operations, and your latest quarterly report shows foreign-branded phone sales plummeting 31.3% in June...| Gadget Hacks
Discover essential tips and tricks for maximizing your Google Chrome experience. From customizing browser settings and managing extensions to mastering...| Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir The camera wars just took an unexpected turn. While flagship phones pushed past 200MP, foldables remained stuck with compromise cameras—until now. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 already packs the same 200MP Isocell HP2 sensor found in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and reports suggest Samsung is planning to integrate flagship-grade camera systems across its entire foldable lineup. But here's the kicker: Samsung isn't alone in this race. What you need to know: Game-changing h...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Corey Noles Sony's mobile division finds itself in an increasingly precarious position, with Sony holding just 1% of the global smartphone...| Gadget Hacks
Snapseed is an app that you should definitely be using not only if you're really serious about photography, but also if you want to ensure that your online...| Gadget Hacks
Reviewed by Julianne Ngirngir The wireless charging world just shifted into high gear, and if you've been waiting for Android phones to catch up with...| Gadget Hacks
The next time you can't find your college friend at a crowded concert, you probably won't text them. Instead, you'll open Find My, spot their little avatar moving near the merch table, and walk straight over. Welcome to 2024, where this behavior isn't just convenient—it's completely normal. This shift from "text me when you get there" to "I'll just watch your dot move" represents something bigger than a tech upgrade. 88% of Gen Z uses location-sharing apps regularly, and their motivations r...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Your phone's security just got a lot more complicated. While device manufacturers have been racing to encrypt everything from your photos to your deleted messages, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has been quietly building an arsenal of tools to dig deeper into seized devices. But here's the thing: the agency isn't just looking for what's on the surface anymore—they're hunting for data you didn't even know existed. The scope of CBP's digital dragnet is staggering. In fiscal year 2019, CBP...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Picture this: You walk into a phone store looking for the latest Sony Xperia, only to find empty shelves where they used to be. That's increasingly becoming reality across major markets, and it's raising a question that would've seemed impossible just a few years ago — are we witnessing the twilight of Sony's smartphone ambitions? The signs are everywhere. Sony officially announced it will no longer sell Xperia smartphones through its European subsidiary, with the dedicated European website...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Having tracked telecom policy changes for over five years, I've seen how regulatory shifts can reshape entire markets—but Verizon's latest move hits...| Gadget Hacks
Taking screen captures is a standard feature on iPhones and newer Android smartphones, but for some reason it's not very intuitive. Screenshots allow you to...| Gadget Hacks
You've probably heard this song before: "world's thinnest foldable phone!" But the Honor Magic V5 might actually deserve the hype. At just 8.8mm thick when...| Gadget Hacks
The swiping just got a lot more serious. Tinder is expanding its identity verification tech to the US, bringing along facial recognition that's supposedly safer, smarter, and more foolproof than ever. But as always with biometric data, there's more happening under the hood than a simple selfie check. FTC data shows romance scams cost victims $1.3 billion in 2022, with the median loss hitting $4,400 per person. Dating apps are clearly under pressure to do something about fake profiles and catf...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
You lose cell service in the middle of the day, and twenty minutes later, your bank account is empty. Welcome to SIM swapping—the nightmare scenario that's...| Gadget Hacks
Discover essential Facebook Messenger tips and tricks to enhance your messaging experience. From managing conversations and sending multimedia to utilizing...| Gadget Hacks
Why are there no official Star Wars emoji in the Unicode Standard? We've got the Vulcan Salute from Star Trek, so where's the force choke hand gesture?! While you may never see Star Wars officially invade your emoji keyboard, there are ways to send Star Wars emoji and stickers to your friends in your favorite chat app. What are Star Wars emoji?First, before you start spamming your conversations with Baby Yoda and Darth Vader, know that none of these are official emoji. Actual emoji on your de...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Streaming is great until you're 30,000 feet up, riding the subway, or stuck on a network that suddenly drops to dial-up-slow speeds. That's why Amazon's offline access remains one of Prime Video's best perks. Amazon introduced mobile downloads back in 2015, beating Netflix and Hulu to the punch, and the workflow hasn't changed much since. Today, if you're a paying Prime or Prime Video subscriber (or part of a paying family account), you can stash almost any title on your iPhone or Android pho...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Flagship earbuds like Apple's AirPods Pro, Sony's WF‑1000XM5, Jabra's Elite 10, and Soundcore's Liberty 4 Pro sound fantastic, but they come with equally premium price tags. Luckily, there are plenty of stellar alternatives that won't gut your wallet. Spend less than $100, and you can still land punchy audio, rock‑solid active noise canceling (ANC), and marathon battery life without feeling like you settled. Below, we start with our overall winner and count down to number five,...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
A crucial part of the system that keeps your iPhone, iPad, Android device, and computer secure just lost US government funding — and the ripple effects could soon reach your gadget's next update. A quiet but major shake-up in cybersecurityThe US government has abruptly cut off funding to the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) program, the global system standardizing how software and hardware vulnerabilities are cataloged and tracked. If you've ever looked at Apple's or Google's list...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
The Unicode Consortium is already hard at work on the next batch of emoji, but don't get too excited just yet. It may be a while before you see these new characters, which include an apple core, orca, and hairy creature, on your devices. Unicode 17.0, with its Emoji 17.0 update, isn't expected to be finalized until September 2025, but nine new emoji candidates have already been drafted. Those are: Apple Core: A compostable icon for food waste or garbage. Ballet Dancer: A new gender-neutral ch...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Google Maps makes it easy to find the best routes, and one of its most useful tools is the ability to set departure and arrival times directly in the mobile app. While this feature was initially exclusive to the desktop site, it’s now fully integrated into the app for both iPhone and Android. This allows you to plan ahead and get accurate travel estimates based on predicted traffic conditions. To use this feature, ensure your Google Maps app is updated. Once updated, you can choose departur...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Hey, all you Instagram lovers, haters, or people who have no choice but to submissively bow down to the social app giant for other reasons, you've come to the right place. Today, I'm going to walk you through a very simple marketing trick to start boosting traffic to your IG account. Most people, unless your popularity is based on your name, aren't going to be searching for you on a day-to-day basis. What most people will be searching for, though, is what you can sell them. So, if you offer p...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
If I told you to follow as many users as you could possibly follow, in order to get more Instagram followers, that may seem counterintuitive, right? If I told you I'm trying to brainwash/annoy you with how many times I could possibly say versions of the word "follow" in an opening sentence, that would seem weird, too. Both are not true. If you want more followers, a really easy way to increase your count is to just follow other people. Why? Because if you want more people on Instagram to noti...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
I have nightmares about trying to reply to hundreds of strangers on social media. To prevent the overwhelming feeling of having to small talk with people I don't know, I'm now aiming for more control over the ways that people can contact me. One way is to stop users from hitting me up on Instagram Stories. So ladies, influencers, and all of the wonderful men of Instagram ... if you want to control how many Story messages you receive every day, then keep reading. It's actually quite simple. Fi...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
If you want to share a video to Stories — but it's over 24 hours old — it may seem like you can't, but there's actually a simple hack on how to do just that. The way to get around Instagram's 24-hour restriction is to post your video while on airplane mode. This might seem like it doesn't make sense, but trust me, it works. When you try and upload a video to your regular profile page while on airplane mode, it will fail. Duh. But the great thing about it failing is that it saves a new vid...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Breathe new life into your Instagram profile picture with another layer of self-expression. It's the perfect way to show another side of your personality without sacrificing your current IG profile photo. While photo filters give you the power to create a consistent style for your brand or personal profile, you can now access dynamic profile pictures. These profile pics consist of your regular static profile picture and a custom animated avatar you can style however you want. With both profil...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Most of you have probably wondered at least once who has been checking out your social media profiles. While most platforms prohibit you from seeing who's viewed your profile, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, TikTok is one of the few places that lets you track profile visitors. And unlike with LinkedIn, you don't have to pay for the privilege. The feature is helpful for many reasons. If you're a creator and want to grow your following, seeing who your visitors are can help you shape ...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Sharing your personal information can come up for any number of reasons: you may want to get in touch with a colleague after work or you've been involved in a car accident and need to stay in contact with the other driver. Unfortunately, giving out information can be the key for others to find your social media accounts, such as Instagram, whether you want it to happen or not. Anyone with your phone number saved in their contacts or who has added you on Facebook can find your Instagram accoun...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When it comes to smartphone screens, there are two predominant technologies—the traditional LCD panel, and the newer AMOLED display. Most phones still use LCD screens, as the tech is more cost-effective due to its longstanding reign as the primary display type in TVs, smartphones, and tablets. AMOLED screens are more energy-efficient, and offer higher contrast levels and deeper blacks. But in recent years, AMOLED screens are starting to take over as the technology matures and becomes cheape...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
So, you're trying to show a friend or two a hilarious Reel you liked or saved on Instagram, but where is it? Unlike TikTok, Instagram doesn't make it clear where you're supposed to find your liked and saved Reels. Luckily, we can help. Since its inception, Instagram Reels has grown into a worthy TikTok copycat, but it still has issues. For instance, it maxes out at 60-second videos while TikTok videos can last up to 10 minutes now. And then there's the reason why you're here: it's not very ob...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
When Facebook introduced Stories in 2017, many users despised the Snapchat-like feature on their main page. However, despite the outcry, Facebook doesn't plan to let you remove it. But you don't have to settle for this. With the help of some third-party apps, you no longer have to deal with Stories. Using one of two third-party apps, you can better manage your Facebook account even when the main app offers limited controls. Both apps (a different app for each mobile operating system) make hid...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
You can add a timestamp to any YouTube video in just a few clicks from the desktop website on your computer but not from YouTube's iOS or Android app. Until YouTube adds a "start time" when sharing videos from the mobile app, you'll have to use one of these workarounds on your phone or tablet. Why would you even want to use shareable YouTube links with start times? Tacking a start time to a YouTube video is an easy way to bookmark a specific part of the video to come back to and reference lat...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
If you're in the market for a new smartphone and want nothing but the best of the best, now's the time to act. Some of the greatest phones money can buy are being released as we speak, while others are still in their prime and will continue to be for most of 2024. Whether you want an iPhone or Android, we've rounded up the best picks you have to choose from for top-of-the-line specs and advanced features. For this list, we only looked at smartphones available for the U.S. market. That means s...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Christmas is just one week before Jan. 1. That means a lot of New Year's resolutions filled with promises to better ourselves with increased productivity, focus, and work ethics — but getting started can be challenging. Give the people in your life a leg up this holiday season with these smartphone gifts to keep them on-task in 2020. Know how much you want to spend? Click one of the links below to jump ahead: Stocking Stuffers for Less Than $25Great Gifts for Friends Between $25 & $100S...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
There's never been a better time for streaming videos on your phone. With so many options available (including a potential mobile-only Netflix tier) and so many new smartphones having large screens, there's a good chance you know someone who mainly use their phone for videos. And if you looking for a gift for them, there are some great options. While smartphones continue to get larger and more powerful, they haven't surpassed the experience of a larger screen like a television. But for someon...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
With smartphone cameras and software getting better and better every year, more and more users are getting passionate about photography. So when you're shopping for a gift to get someone, if they have a smartphone, chances are they'll more than appreciate some tools and accessories for taking better photos with their pocket friend — and we've got some gear ideas they'll love. Stock camera apps, as well as Instagram and Snapchat, are just gateways into more professional mobile tools to compo...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
In a time where we're more connected than ever, privacy and security have never been more important. Maybe you're not concerned, but I'm sure there's someone in your life who is, and shopping for them can be daunting. However, with these gifts, you can provide them the tools they need to enhance their protection. Each gift below will either keep your information and whereabouts private or keep the recipient (and his or her family) safe. Some gifts even do both. We avoided the more extreme mea...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Advancements in technology have made it perfectly possible to make a short film or even an entire movie with your iPhone or Android — as long as you've got the right gear. Lenses, stabilizers, tripods, lighting, microphones, chargers, and cases can make the difference between a good movie and a great film, all of which can make a great gift for those aspiring (or current) filmmakers in your life. Know how much you want to spend? Jump to your section here: Stocking Stuffers for Less Than $25...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
Smartphones are vital travel companions. While you're on the go, they connect you with loved ones back home, help you find tickets and passes for tourist attractions, and make it easy to find your way through foreign roads — but even the most powerful smartphone could use help from travel accessories. If you have a loved one who is always getting their passport stamped, or maybe you're the world-traveler and you want to get yourself something nice, here's a list of essential smartphone acce...| Smartphones - Gadget Hacks
