Microsoft is booting ineligible Windows 11 PCs out of the Windows Insider Program

When Microsoft originally announced Windows 11, it was quickly discovered that Microsoft had made some drastic changes to the system requirements. Most importantly, there are some strict requirements on which CPUs are supported by the new OS. When it came down to testing in the Windows Insider Program, however, the Redmond firm wasn’t quite as strict.

Here’s how it worked. If you were in the Dev channel prior to the announcement, you’d be allowed to stay up until Windows 11 comes out. Once it’s out, you have to roll back to Windows 10 or you’ll be in an unsupported state, assuming your PC is ineligible (obviously, if your PC is eligible, you’re good to go). For Beta channel Insiders, they were kicked off of the Beta channel and placed into Release Preview for Windows 10 21H2 testing.

Now, Microsoft has started kicking unsupported PCs out of the Dev channel of the Windows Insider Program. If you’re in the Dev channel and your CPU isn’t on the supported list, you’ll likely find that you have to go back to Windows 10 in order to keep receiving updates.

Microsoft has now dropped ineligible systems from the Insider program and tells them to install Windows 10. pic.twitter.com/zfALanmcuq

— BetaWiki (@BetaWiki) August 31, 2021

The transition to the new system requirements hasn’t been an entirely smooth one, but there’s a good reason that things are the way they are. Windows 10 versions 20H2, 21H1, and 21H2 are all enablement packages that build on top of version 2004. But since the spring of 2020, Microsoft has still been releasing prerelease builds in the Dev channel, with none of those features actually shipping in Windows 10. Those prerelease builds eventually became Windows 11.

That means that when Microsoft decided on the new system requirements, it had to think of a solution for all of the Windows Insiders that wouldn’t qualify for Windows 11, but were already running prerelease builds. After all, you can’t deliver an OTA update from build 20xxx to build 19xxx. The general rule is that if the build number goes down, you have to do a factory reset.

Because of this, the Redmond company decided to let Insiders on the Dev channel tag along for Windows 11 testing. Obviously, those users were used for telemetry. When Microsoft said it would consider Intel seventh-gen and AMD Zen processors for Windows 11 support, it got to look at data from all of the Insiders that were still able to run Windows 11. That’s how the firm came up with stats saying that supported PCs had a 99.8% crash-free experience, while unsupported PCs has 52% more crashes (which really only means that it’s a 99.7% crash-free experience).

But now, that run of testing has come to an end. It’s never fun when you have to reset your PC, but that’s the risk of the Insider Program.

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Microsoft releases Windows 10 build 19044.1202 to the Release Preview channel

Today, Microsoft is releasing another cumulative update for Windows 10 users in the Release Preview channel of the Insider Program. The update is KB5005101, and you’ll get it whether you’re on Windows 10 version 21H1 or version 21H2. That means that the build number will end up being 19043.1202 or 19044.1202, respectively.

It comes with just one fix:

• We fixed an issue that causes the Windows Update settings page to stop responding after you download an optional update.

If you’re on the Release Preview ring, it’s actually not possible to enroll in Windows 10 version 21H2 testing. This is something that’s reserved for Insiders that were on the Beta channel and didn’t meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11. They got booted and pushed to Release Preview. And for some reason, those are the only people allowed to test Windows 10 version 21H2.

Presumably, at some point, Microsoft will open up 21H2 testing to everyone that wants it. The company gets weird about the Release Preview ring though. It was testing new 20H2 updates up until June, even though 21H1 had been in production for months. That’s right; you could have a newer version of Windows 10 in production than you could in the Release Preview ring. Actually, that will probably happen again when 21H2 ships later on this year.

Windows 10 version 21H2 will be coming later this year, and frankly, Microsoft isn’t talking too much about it. The big focus is on Windows 11, and that’s no surprise. There aren’t any major new features in 21H2 either. It’s just an enablement package that lights up a few things and bumps up the build number.

Microsoft will probably continue to do that too. For those that either don’t want or don’t meet the requirements for Windows 11, Windows 10 is going to be supported until 2025. The Redmond firm hasn’t confirmed whether it’s going to continue to deliver Windows 10 feature updates over the next four years, or if it will just provide cumulative updates over that period.

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Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 vs Apple AirPods Pro: Which ANC TWS earbuds should you buy?

Samsung has built an ecosystem around its products similar to what Apple has done over the years. When you buy a Samsung phone, you can also buy the Galaxy Watch 4 along with it to track your workouts and the Galaxy Buds 2 for your audio needs. Similarly, when you buy an iPhone, you can pick up the Apple Watch and a pair of AirPods Pro. If you’re looking to get a pair of wireless earbuds, you can take a look at our list of the best TWS earphones out there or if you’re particularly confused between the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 and the AirPods Pro, we’ll help you decide which one is best for you.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 vs Apple AirPods Pro Specs

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 vs Apple AirPods Pro: Specifications

Specification	Samsung Galaxy Buds 2	Apple AirPods Pro
Dimensions & Weight	Earbuds: 17×20.9×21.1mm Case: 50×50.2×27.8mm Weight: 5g Earbuds, 41.2g Case	Earbuds: 24×30.9×21.8mm Case: 60.6×45.2×21.7mm Weight: 5.4g Earbuds, 45.6g Case
ANC	3 levels of ambient sound control Transparent mode Machine Learning solutions to cut-off sound	Single ANC mode Transparency mode
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.2	Bluetooth 5.0
Battery & Charging	Buds – 61mAh Case – 472mAh 20 hours playback time with case USB-C Port Qi Wireless charging	5 hours The case contains 6 additional charges Lightning port Qi wireless charging
IP Rating	IPX2	IPX4
Colors	White, Olive, Graphite, Lavender	White
Price	$149	$249

Build and Design

Let’s first talk about the cases of both earbuds. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 have a rectangular case, and the AirPods Pro have a slightly more rounded case with a lid that’s easier to open with one hand. Both cases are made of plastic and have a white exterior. The internal compartment inside the Galaxy Buds 2 is based on the color you pick.

The AirPods Pro is slightly more pocketable due to the design but neither of the two earbuds are bulky and can easily be carried around in your pocket.

Moving to the earbuds themselves, there’s a distinct change in how both earbuds look. The AirPods Pro has an elongated stem while the Galaxy Buds 2 has a stem-less design. Both earbuds are of the in-ear type and include silicone ear tips. Looks are always subjective so there’s no definite winner. Pick the one you personally like.

Sound Quality and ANC

The Galaxy Buds 2 are extremely similar to the more premium Galaxy Buds Pro in terms of sound quality, and the Galaxy Buds Pro is one of our top recommendations for a pair of TWS earbuds. The sound signature leans slightly towards the bass-heavy side but it’s something most people will like. The AirPods Pro, on the other hand, has a very balanced sound signature. Both earbuds have support for ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) that improves your listening experience.

The ANC on the AirPods Pro is slightly more effective than the one on the Galaxy Buds 2. Even during calls, the AirPods Pro cancels out more background noise when compared to the Galaxy Buds 2. If you’re going to be traveling on a plane, the AirPods Pro will surely give you a quieter experience. Both earphones also have a transparency mode that can be used to amplify external sounds.

Additional Features and Battery Life

Both sets of earbuds have support for custom gestures. The Galaxy Buds 2 have touch controls whereas the AirPods Pro have a stem that’s pressure-sensitive. You can skip tracks, toggle ANC, and customize gestures to your liking on both earbuds. The AirPods Pro has one additional feature here and that’s the ability to auto-pause music when you remove the earbuds from your ears. The Galaxy Buds 2 misses out on this feature. Both earphones can be worn to the gym or while working without any issues.

While both sets of earbuds can be paired to any smartphone, the AirPods Pro works best when paired with an iOS device. You can’t change the controls or update the firmware of your AirPods Pro without an iPhone. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 also works best with an Android device, more so a Samsung phone. You can however use the AirPods Pro with minimal functionality with an Android device and similarly, the Galaxy Buds 2 with iOS.

In terms of battery life, both the Galaxy Buds 2 and the AirPods Pro are similar when it comes to the battery on the earbuds themselves. Both offer a playback time of about five hours with ANC turned on. The AirPods Pro’s battery life is slightly better when you include the case as well. The Galaxy Buds 2 can be charged up to four times with the case whereas the AirPods Pro can be charged up to six times. Both cases have support for Qi Wireless Charging.

Which earphones should you buy?

Depending on what phone you use, the choice is simple. If you use an iPhone and are already in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Pro makes complete sense. If you have a Mac, an iPad, and an Apple Watch along with your iPhone, you can experience seamless connectivity between the devices. You also get Spatial audio support with the AirPods Pro when used with an iPhone.

If you have an Android device, getting the AirPods Pro doesn’t really make a lot of sense since you won’t be able to use them to their full potential. Plus, they are also a bit on the expensive side, and you can get equivalent and even better options for Android. The Galaxy Buds 2 should be your pick if you’re an Android user and moreso if you have a Samsung phone.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2

The Galaxy Buds 2 is Samsung's latest pair of TWS earphones with ANC.

View at Samsung

The AirPods Pro were launched for $249 but are now selling for about $179 which is just $30 more than the Galaxy Buds 2. At that price, they’re absolutely worth it, but you still have to deal with some ripples from the ecosystem lock-in.

Apple AirPods Pro

If you're into the Apple ecosystem, you just can't go wrong with the AirPods Pro for your audio needs.

View at Amazon

If you’re picking up a pair of the Galaxy Buds 2, make sure you protect them with a good case.

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Jabra’s new Elite 3 and Elite 7 wireless earbuds offer ANC and better voice calls

If you’re looking to buy a pair of true wireless earbuds, there’s no shortage of options on the market. Most TWS earbuds have few unique features, so purchase decisions often come down to one or more key features, the pricing, and the brand behind the product. Danish brand Jabra has one of the audio product lineups, and the company today unveiled three new wireless earbuds in its Jabra Elite range: the Jabra Elite 3, Jabra Elite 7 Active, and Jabra Elite 7 Pro.

All of these earbuds are controlled through Jabra’s MySound+ app, available on Google Play and the Apple App Store, and can be paired to both Android and iOS devices. All three products support Google Fast Pair, instant Alexa activation, and one-touch Spotify playback on Android. The earbuds also support activating Siri on iOS and Google Assistant on Android.

In terms of design, these earbuds feature silicone ear tips and an oval-shaped case with a USB-C charging port, though the case and earbuds come in different colors depending on the model.

Jabra Elite 3

The Jabra Elite 3 is the most affordable out of the trio, retailing for only $79. These earbuds have 6mm speakers, 4 microphones, access to Jabra’s music equalizer, support for Qualcomm’s aptX codec, 7 hours of battery life (28 total hours including the charging case), fast charging (10 minutes of charging gives 1 hour of playback), HearThrough awareness, active noise cancellation, IP55 rating. The Elite 3 comes in 4 colors — Lilac, Light Beige, Dark Grey, and Navy — and goes on sale tomorrow, September 1st, through Best Buy and Amazon.

Jabra Elite 3

The Jabra Elite 3 are entry-level true wireless earbuds with an advertised 7 hours of battery life and ANC, retailing for $79.

Buy from Amazon

Buy from Best Buy

Jabra Elite 7 Series

The new Jabra Elite 7 Pro and Active are more premium offerings from the company, and their price reflects that. The Elite 7 Active retails for $179, while the Elite 7 Pro retails for $199. Both products offer adjustable active noise cancellation, 9 hours of battery life (35 hours total including the charging case), fast charging (5 minutes of charging yields 1.2 hours of playback), 4 microphones, 6mm speakers, and 11 levels of sound modes (including HearThrough.)

The Elite 7 Pro feature Jabra’s new MultiSensor Voice for improved call clarity in noisy environments. This tech takes advantage of the two VPU bone conduction sensors and the 4 microphones in the Jabra Elite 7 Pro to filter wind noise and transmit your voice via jawbone vibrations.

The Elite 7 Active, on the other hand, come with Jabra’s ShakeGrip coating, a liquid silicone rubber ear tip, and a wing free design to ensure the earbuds never fall out of your ears while you’re working out. They don’t have bone conduction sensors, but they do still filter wind from calls thanks to a mesh over the microphones.

The Jabra Elite 7 Active and Pro will be available starting October 1st, costing $179 and $199 respectively. The Active comes in a single greenish color, while the Pro comes in Gold Beige and Black.

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Google Chrome tests new features that make it easier to shop, search, and share quotes

Google Chrome is split into multiple releases with varying stability levels, ranging from Stable to Beta to Dev and finally Canary, so users and developers and choose which version of the browser they’re most comfortable running. The Chrome Beta channel, like other development channels, has flags and experiments that can be toggled so that you can test out in-development features before they’re released to Stable. Now, Google wants users to test a few new features in the latest Chrome 93 Beta release that make it easier to shop, search, and share quotes online, all from your browser.

Cards on the New Tab Page

The company announced all of these new features in a blog post. The first newly-added feature is a set of cards that are added to the new tab page, recommending pages based on your past browsing history to help you pick up where you left off. It works for recipes (chrome://flags#ntp-recipe-tasks-module), shopping carts (chrome://flags#ntp-chrome-cart-module), and for recently opened documents in Google Drive (chrome://flags#ntp-drive-module).

Continuous Search

Chrome 93 Beta is also testing a feature to switch between search results from just below your address bar. Ever searched for something online on your phone and been annoyed by having to keep pressing back to jump between search results? In the new Chrome Beta, by enabling the continuous search flag (chrome://flags#continuous-search) on Android, Chrome will show a scrollable bar below the address bar that gives you an easy way to switch between search results.

Stylized quotes

Finally, the third feature being tested is the ability to quickly and easily share stylized quotes from sites. Enabling the webnotes stylize flag (chrome://#webnotes-stylize) on your Android will unlock the ability to create a card with a quote from a page, which you can then copy and save or share it directly to another app. All you need to do is long press a piece of text, tap share, and select a template by tapping “create card” from the menu.

---

To enable these features on Google Chrome Beta, navigate to chrome://flags in the address bar and then search for and enable the flags listed above. Alternatively, you can paste one of the chrome://flags links we shared directly into the address bar. If you want to download and try out the latest Google Chrome 93 beta, you can download it from Google Play.

Chrome Beta (Free, Google Play) →

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How to run AutoCAD on a Chromebook in two easy ways

It’s a common misconception that Chromebooks aren’t capable of running powerful software found on PCs or Macs. If you’re an engineering student, you might need to run some fairly intensive applications on your laptop. Chromebooks are a great solution for students because they’re secure and cost-effective.

If you’re an engineering student using a Chromebook, you probably need to run AutoCAD for some of your course assignments. Unlike on a PC, AutoCAD doesn’t offer a native Chrome OS installation. Luckily, there are still a few easy ways to take advantage of AutoCAD’s drafting power on a Chromebook or other Chrome OS device. We’ll take a look at the online version of AutoCAD for students, as well as discuss how to run the full version of AutoCAD using Parallels for enterprise customers.

How to run AutoCAD on a Chromebook using the browser

If you only need AutoCAD for very basic tasks, like an introductory engineering or drafting course, your best bet is running AutoCAD in the browser or using the Progressive Web App (PWA). AutoCAD offers a robust online platform for cloud computing with a fair amount of power.

To use AutoCAD online you only need to sign into your university or organization AutoDesk account and choose the online option. If you’re already signed in to your AutoDesk account, you can access the online platform directly via web.autocad.com.

The main downside to using AutoCAD online is that you must store files in the cloud. Thankfully, AutoCAD makes it easy to integrate any cloud service you desire with their web app. This is in stark contrast to the case with MATLAB online, which I covered a few weeks back.

Inside the AutoCAD web app, you can choose Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, Google Drive, and others as your primary cloud storage service. This option makes it much easier to work with AutoCAD in the browser for assignments and collaborative projects.

AutoCAD web app performance

Speed in the browser is honestly quite impressive. AutoCAD runs flawlessly in the web app for most 2D design tasks. There is a small bit of lag if you try more advanced 3D drafting, but that’s to be expected. Features found in the web app include:

• Edit geometry and select, move, rotate, and scale objects within drawings through your choice of the ribbon or command line.
• Access easy-to-use drafting tools and manage views, properties, and layers. Reduce eyestrain with sharp icons and a modern blue interface.
• Safely review and add feedback directly to a DWG file without altering the existing drawing.
• Send a controlled copy of your drawing to teammates and colleagues to access wherever they are.
• View, edit, share, and save drawings stored in Autodesk Drive and Autodesk Docs, as well as in OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, and Box.
• Easily access the command line, which is docked in the bottom left of the drawing area and displays prompts, options, and messages.
• Take measurements and add dimensions to your drawings.

To be sure, there are few advanced rotation and manipulation features only found in the PC version of AutoCAD, but the web app’s capability is impressive overall.

How to run AutoCAD extensions for Chrome OS

For those planning to use the AutoCAD app frequently, you may also want to add a shortcut to the web app in your Chromebook’s app drawer.

You can also install a Google Drive extension for the AutoCAD web app via the Google Workspace Marketplace. This allows you to integrate AutoCAD directly with Google Drive. With this extension installed, you can use the ‘Open with’ option in Drive by right-clicking to open files directly in AutoCAD.

Obviously, it’s much nicer to use a local copy of AutoCAD on a PC, which has additional features and local file storage. Still, for students using AutoCAD on assignments, this should get the job done. You can always choose to move files back and forth between AutoCAD’s cloud storage and your own Google Drive or Dropbox folder. Obviously this isn’t ideal, but it can get the job done in a pinch. If you have an LTE Chromebook, make sure to turn off auto-sync for cloud services in AutoCAD.

Run AutoCAD on a Chromebook using Parallels Desktop

For those that can’t make do with the online solution, there’s another convenient option if you’re an enterprise or education customer. It’s possible to install the Windows version of AutoCAD using Parallels Desktop for Chrome OS.

Parallels Desktop is a full-featured Windows container that runs natively on Chrome OS. This software allows you to run the full version of Windows, but there are a few important things to be aware of.

The Parallels Desktop software is currently only available at scale to business customers, making this option of little use to individual users at the present time. With Parallels Desktop for Chrome OS, IT departments can enable proprietary and full-featured Windows applications — including AutoCAD — on Chrome OS devices, online and offline. You’ll need a Chrome Enterprise upgrade to run Parallels (see screenshot above).

Some key features of Parallels Desktop for Chrome OS include:

Always-on access to business-critical Windows apps

• Effortlessly switch between Chrome OS and Windows – no need to reboot.
• Suspend and resume Windows to instantly get back up and running.
• Open files on Chrome OS using Windows applications.
• BONUS: Access 30+ one-touch tools with included Parallels Toolbox.

Work that’s ready whenever, wherever

• Utilize full feature sets of desktop applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more.
• Access Windows Desktop, Documents, Downloads and custom folders from Chrome OS files.
• No internet? No problem! Files and apps are fully accessible both online and offline.

Full Chrome OS integration for a familiar & friendly experience

• Easily move content between Chrome OS and Windows via a shared clipboard.
• Print from Windows to supported printers.
• Stay in the flow with a seamless mouse, camera, microphone, audio & docking plus USB smart card reader support.
• Enjoy the view with dynamic resolution and full screen support.

Requirements for running Parallels Desktop

There are minimum system requirements to run Parallels on your Chromebook. You need at least Chrome OS version 85 or later. Additionally, you need the Google Admin console, Chrome Enterprise Upgrade/Chrome Education Upgrade, a Microsoft Windows ISO, a Windows license, and a storage server if you wish to distribute to multiple machines in your organization. In terms of hardware, supported processors include Intel Core i5 or i7 and AMD Ryzen 5 or 7. You’ll also need a minimum of 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB SSD local storage on your device.

While some of these specifications seem limiting, keep in mind this software is currently targeted at enterprise customers. There are many enterprise Chromebooks from Acer, HP, and Lenovo that meet the requirements. If your Chromebook or Chrome OS tablet meets the minimum requirements, you might also enjoy buying a docking station to turn your Chromebook into a full workstation.

Technically, you can upgrade to Chrome Enterprise on a supported Chromebook if you are an individual. All you need to do is purchase a website domain from a provider like Squarespace, then link it to a Google Workspace account. Both Google Workspace, Chrome Enterprise, and your domain will have associated costs, so this can be a very expensive approach if you don’t own an actual business.

Still, if you’re an enterprise customer, Parallels Desktop can definitely be worth it. If you’re interested in the full process for running Windows on your Chromebook via Parallels, see my full tutorial.

You’re all set, that’s the entire process for installing AutoCAD on your Chromebook or other Chrome OS device using the web app or Parallels. I was actually quite surprised how smoothly AutoCAD runs in the browser on my Chromebook. It’s really a pretty nice experience. For those that need the local installation, Parallels Desktop is also an excellent option for enterprise users.

Let us know your experience with either method in the comments section below.

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Galaxy S21 FE user manual confirms key features, lack of in-box charger

Nobody really knows when the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE will launch, though there’s a lot of evidence to suggest that it’s coming sometime soon. However, a recently leaked user manual has confirmed some key features along with the news that there won’t be a charger included in the box. There’s no sign of a headphone jack or micro SD card support, either.

The manual, seen by SamMobile, confirms that the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. It has an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, a high refresh rate display, and a design similar to the rest of the Samsung Galaxy S21 series.

While it’s not possible to really discern the full specifications from a user manual, SamMobile was also able to get some camera information out of it. The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE has a triple-camera setup (as already known from leaked renders), Dolby Atmos support, Wireless Samsung DeX, Samsung Pay, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. Nothing is mentioned about a micro SD card slot, and it does not have a headphone jack.

However, one other revelation taken from the manual is that if you want a charger, you’ll need to buy one separately. This follows on from the Samsung Galaxy S21 series which also didn’t include a charger in the box, and other phone manufacturers are starting to remove theirs as well. You can take a look at our list of best fast chargers for the Samsung Galaxy S21 series if you’re looking to pick one up ahead of this device’s launch.

Samsung is expected to start mass production of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE in September after the ongoing global chip shortage forced the South Korean smartphone maker to delay the launch. We don’t really know when exactly we’ll see the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE launch, but the fact that more and more leaks are cropping up recently suggests that it’s likely coming soon.

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Samsung Galaxy Buds Live now on sale for only $60

Samsung has released many pairs of true wireless earbuds over the past few years, but the Galaxy Buds Live might be the most unique. The distinctive shape has earned them the name ‘Galaxy Beans,’ with no rubber inserts that need to be squished into your ear canal. They have continued to drop in price over the past few months, especially since the Galaxy Buds 2 earbuds were revealed earlier this month, and now you can get the Buds Live in refurbished condition for just $59.50. That’s $40 lower than the original refurbished price, and $10 lower than the sale from a month ago.

The Galaxy Buds Live earbuds have 12mm speakers, a bass duct for enhancing lower frequency sound, and (finicky) touch controls for pausing/skipping playback. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is technically available, but it has little to no effect in real-world usage, so look elsewhere if you need earbuds with noise cancellation. The earbud case uses USB Type-C for charging, or you can set it on top of any Qi wireless charging pad.

Samsung Galaxy Buds Live

Samsung is selling refurbished Galaxy Buds Live through its eBay store. Both the white and bronze colors are on sale. Enter code SAVE15LABORDAYat checkout for the price to drop to $59.50.

Buy at eBay (Bronze)

Buy at eBay (White)

This listing on Samsung’s official eBay store is for refurbished Galaxy Buds Live, and each unit has been tested to work exactly like new. Samsung is even shipping the earbuds in the original retail packaging, which isn’t always the case with refurbished electronics, and you get a 2-year warranty. Check out our Galaxy Buds Live review if you’re interested in our full thoughts.

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Amazon is the next tech company to join the live audio clubhouse

There are dozens of music streaming services available worldwide, some of which cater to specific genres while others offer a broad catalog of songs. To compete with the likes of Spotify, YouTube, and Apple, it’s not enough for a service to only offer music, though. The biggest players in the industry have branched off into podcasts, offered either with their music streaming service or separately through another app. More recently, these tech companies have also started to follow in the footsteps of Clubhouse, the social audio app that popularized live audio chatrooms. Now, Amazon is the latest name to throw its hat in the ring, as the company is reportedly investing heavily in a new live audio feature. However, it seems that Amazon hasn’t yet set its sights on directly competing with Clubhouse and its many clones, at least initially.

Sources speaking to Axios have told the publication that Amazon’s Music division is paying podcast networks, musicians, and celebrities to use the service for “live conversations, shows and events.” The goal, at least initially, is to host live concerts or performances in Amazon Music, and the company is allegedly negotiating with major record labels to host live audio events with artists. Eventually, the feature may be expanded to live radio or podcast programs. Separately, the company is said to be planning to integrate live audio features into Twitch, the live streaming platform that Amazon acquired in 2014.

It’s no surprise to see Amazon jump on the live audio bandwagon. Clubhouse exploded in popularity last year during the COVID-19 lockdowns, and its growth hasn’t gone unnoticed by Silicon Valley. Several social media companies including Twitter, Facebook, Discord, and Reddit have released their own live audio features, while some music streaming companies like Spotify have also started to follow the trend.

Amazon Music, despite its popularity, isn’t known for leading the industry, though it has the cash to stay up to date with the latest trends in the space. Its acquisition of the Wondery podcast network late last year signaled its intention to compete with Spotify in podcasts, which itself put down some serious cash to enter the field by signing on major creators like Joe Rogan. When Apple opened up lossless audio streaming, Amazon dropped its separate HD tier in response.

Amazon may have a huge head start when it comes to launching this live audio service, as it can offer this service to its massive Prime userbase at little to no extra cost. We don’t have any details on whether or not Amazon will bake this service into Amazon Music or if it’ll charge users extra to access it, though, and the company declined a request for comment when reached by Axios.

Featured image: A screenshot of the Amazon Prime Music homepage

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Google’s next Pixel Stand could offer 23W wireless charging for the Pixel 6

Google’s next Pixel Stand could offer 23W wireless charging speeds for the Google Pixel 6 series. We knew for quite a while that we would likely see some kind of high-speed wireless charging on the Pixel 6 series after we spotted evidence of a fan-enabled Pixel Stand in an early Android 12 preview. Now there’s even more evidence to corroborate that, with the latest report suggesting the next Pixel Stand will support 23W wireless charging.

A report from Android Police cites a listing from a retail database with the name “Google Pixel 23W WL Stand.” The publication notes that there is a possibility this is a typo or a mistake as is possible when it comes to retail sources, though this news lines up with evidence we found pointing to faster wireless charging.

While 23W is impressive when compared to the wireless charging speeds offered by Samsung and Apple, both OnePlus and Xiaomi have that beat already. The OnePlus 9 Pro supports 50W wireless charging, whereas the Xiaomi Mi 11 and the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra support 50W and 67W wireless charging, respectively.

Higher charging speeds generate more heat, which is likely why the 23W Pixel Stand will have a fan built-in. Previous reports have said that saying “Hey Google”, using the Google Recorder app, or enabling Bedtime Mode will quiet the fans so that your voice can be picked up more clearly. The wireless charging implementation seems to reference three profiles that can be manually switched between — “Auto”, “Quiet”, and “Power Boost”. Power Boost sounds like a mode that might be used for faster wireless charging.

As for when this product will be released, it’ll likely be announced alongside the Pixel 6. Jon Prosser is reporting today that the Pixel 6 series will reach consumers on October 28th. While Prosser’s previous Pixel leaks haven’t always been accurate, his track record when it comes to Android 12 and Pixel 6 leaks have been excellent. Prosser believes that the phones will be available for pre-order on the 19th of October, and he guesses that the 19th of October may also be the date of the actual launch event.

Featured image: the original Pixel Stand

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Is the HP Chromebook x2 11 good for school or college?

The new HP Chromebook x2 11 is one of the most impressive Chrome OS tablets to hit the consumer market in quite some time. Featuring the mobile-focused Snapdragon 7c, up to 8GB of RAM, and up to 128GB of storage, this is an impressive device. If you’re in the market for a new Chromebook for school or college, the HP Chromebook x2 11 should be on your shortlist

With a starting price of $599, this might be a bit too expensive for K-12 students. On the other hand, this is absolutely an amazing device for college students that need maximum portability. Let’s talk about three reasons this is the perfect Chrome OS device.

True detachable capability with USI pen

Chromebooks are typically not considered workhorse laptops. Most people think of Chromebooks in a lower class, behind PCs and Macs. With the Chromebook x2 11, that’s absolutely not the case. You get a detachable keyboard included with HP Chromebook x2 11, which means you can use this as a Chromebook or a true Chrome tablet.

The keyboard is also not too bulky, so this device is portable even the the keyboard is attached. In addition, you get a bundled USI pen that magnetically attaches to the HP Chromebook x2 11. If you need to take notes all day, the HP Chromebook x2 11 is definitely good for school.

HP also has a new utility called Quick Drop, basically bringing AirDrop functionality to your Chrome OS device. Students are typically sharing files back and forth on a regular basis, so this could be a game changer when it comes to improving your workflow.

Amazing touchpad and keyboard

Typing out long term papers can take a toll on your fingers and wrist. An uncomfortable keyboard and touchpad are unacceptable on a Chromebook for school. Thankfully, the HP Chromebook x2 11 has a very comfortable detachable keyboard.

While not perfect for use on the lap, the HP Chromebook x2 11 keyboard does have a decent amount of travel, something you don’t expect from a keyboard cover design.

The touchpad on the HP Chromebook x2 11 is quite spacious and also has an impressive tactile response. Again, this isn’t going to compete with traditional clamshell models, but for a true detachable the keyboard and touchpad are both really impressive.

Battery life and enhanced security features

HP claims the Chromebook x2 11 can get up to 12.5 hours of battery life on a single charge. I can tell you this is definitively false, but the battery life is still good. Considering the overall power of the machine, you can likely get 7-8 hours of battery life with the display on 50% brightness and a robust workload.

If you are willing to crank brightness to 30%, you can get to 10 hours screen time with a reduced workload consisting of mainly browsing the web. That should be enough to last you a full school day, or at least several class periods without your charger.

Those that have privacy concerns will love the the built-in fingerprint sensor and webcam privacy shutter on the HP Chromebook x2 11. Both of these features make your Chromebook more secure when using it on campus.

Conclusion

Overall, the new HP Chromebook x2 11 is an excellent choice for college students. Not only does it have the requisite portability, it also boasts a number of premium features you’ll use when not in class. It also weighs barely 2.5 lbs, perfect for carrying from class to class all day. There aren’t many Chromebooks out there that pack this much power into such a light and portable detachable design. This is definitely one of the best Chromebooks HP has ever made.

HP Chromebook x2 11

The HP Chromebook x2 11 combines the power of Chrome OS with the portability of a traditional tablet. You can work anywhere thanks to the optional 4G LTE capability. This is the new top of the line Chrome OS tablet experience.

See at HP

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South Korea will force Google and Apple to accept alternative payment options

Governments around the world are scrutinizing how Google and Apple do business, thanks to outcry from developers both big and small. The arguments against Google and Apple are generally the same: They hold a monopoly on app distribution and payment options on their respective platforms, charge supracompetitive fees to developers, and unfairly restrict alternative app markets and payment options. While both Google and Apple have reduced their service fees in response to mounting pressure, neither have budged when it comes to allowing third-party payment options. However, government intervention in South Korea will force both companies to do just that.

As reported by the WSJ, a new law has just been passed by South Korea’s National Assembly which will force both companies to open up their app stores to alternative payment systems. The law, nicknamed the “Google power-abuse-prevention law”, amends South Korea’s Telecommunications Business Act, which regulates all telecommunications business in the country, to prohibit large app marker operators from requiring their in-app purchasing option. The law also blocks these operators from delaying the approval of apps or unfairly banning them from the marketplace, both of which are aimed at preventing retaliation from the operator. Failure to comply with this law can result in a fine of up to 3% of the company’s revenue in South Korea. The bill won’t become law until it’s signed by South Korean President Moon Jae-in, but given that his party endorsed the legislation, it’s unlikely to be vetoed.

Given how much money both companies make from their app stores (Google allegedly made $11.2 billion from the Play Store in 2019), it’s no surprise that they’ve been unwilling thus far to loosen their policies on payment options. Legislation like the one that just passed in South Korea threaten Google and Apple’s stranglehold over their respective platforms and could lead to a loss of billions of dollars in revenue if similar laws are passed in the U.S. and EU.

In a statement to The Verge, Google expressed disappointment in the new law.

“Just as it costs developers money to build an app, it costs us money to build and maintain an operating system and app store,” a Google spokesperson told the publication. “We’ll reflect on how to comply with this law while maintaining a model that supports a high-quality operating system and app store, and we will share more in the coming weeks.”

Apple, likewise, wasn’t happy about the law, offering the following statement to The Verge ahead of the law’s passing:

“The proposed Telecommunications Business Act will put users who purchase digital goods from other sources at risk of fraud, undermine their privacy protections, make it difficult to manage their purchases, and features like ‘Ask to Buy’ and Parental Controls will become less effective. We believe user trust in App Store purchases will decrease as a result of this proposal—leading to fewer opportunities for the over 482,000 registered developers in Korea who have earned more than KRW8.55 trillion to date with Apple.”

The outcome of ongoing litigation from Epic Games and U.S. State attorneys general offices as well as the lobbying efforts from groups like the Coalition for App Fairness will play a key role in determining the fate of similar legislation being passed in the U.S. and the EU.

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The Windows 11 release date is officially set for October 5

Today, Microsoft is announcing that the official Windows 11 release date is October 5. Of course, as Microsoft has said this whole time, it’s not coming to everyone on day one. It’s going to be a staged rollout.

First of all, new hardware with Windows 11 is going to start being released in October. You’ll also see newer eligible devices receive the update in the very beginning. As Microsoft tests more devices, it will expand the rollout, and it’s expected to be offered to everyone by mid-2022.

You’ll also need to make sure that you have a compatible CPU. In fact, a lot of system requirements have changed this time around, but the requirement of an Intel eighth-gen or newer, AMD Zen 2 or newer, or Qualcomm Snapdragon 850 or newer processor is the biggest one. TPM 2.0 is also a requirement, but that’s been a requirement on new PCs since 2016, long before any of the supported processors shipped.

If you don’t meet these requirements, you can always install via an ISO image, but then you might not get updates. The alternative is to stay on Windows 10, and even if you do that, you’ll still be supported until October 14, 2025.

Obviously, there are a whole bunch of new features that are coming in Windows 11, the most obvious being an all-new design. You’re going to see a brand-new Start Menu and a centered taskbar. There are rounded corners throughout the OS, and with that new subtle look, there are more subtle system sounds, such as when you change the volume. It also comes with new gaming features with features like DirectStorage and Auto HDR, features that were previously exclusive to the latest generation of Xbox consoles.

There’s even more in terms of design though. You can now have different wallpapers in virtual desktops. You’ll also find an all-new Widgets section, which is mostly News and Interests under a new banner and a new design. Snap Layouts lets you hover your mouse over the maximize button to snap in different parts of the display, and then there are Snap Groups to call up groups of windows. Windows 11 is also optimized for touch, letting you use gestures on the screen that you’re already used to from the touchpad.

Teams Chat is new too. You’ll find the icon in the taskbar, and you can use it to chat with friends, even if they’re not using Teams. One feature that was promised that won’t arrive in time is Android app support. That’s coming later this year.

The Windows 11 release date is October 5. As mentioned, there’s going to be new hardware as well, and stuff being sold now is already being billed as ready for Windows 11. Microsoft noted in its blog post that this is a great time to buy a new PC, and that’s the whole idea behind the new requirements, although the company also outlined things like improved performance and fewer crashes.

While it’s going to be a slow, staged rollout, you’ll still be able to use tools like the Media Creation Tool to install Windows 11 on your machine early.

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Android app support in Windows 11 delayed, likely until next year

When Microsoft announced Windows 11 earlier this year, it unveiled a lot of exciting new features. For example, it comes with an all-new design, Snap Layouts, Teams Chat, and a lot more. But one of the most interesting features in Windows 11 was that it was going to support Android apps by way of the Amazon Appstore. After the announcement, both Teams Chat and Android app support weren’t in the original previews. But while Teams Chat has been there for a little while now, Android apps still aren’t, and Microsoft confirmed today that the feature isn’t going to be in Windows 11 at launch either.

As of Tuesday morning, there are no more secrets left around Windows 11. Microsoft announced the Windows 11 release date, and it confirmed the features that will be included. Android apps is not one of those features. Specifically, the blog post said that the feature will arrive for Windows Insiders in the coming months, which is exactly the terminology that Microsoft used to describe Android app availability back in June when the first Windows 11 preview was released.

And while Microsoft has continuously said that it’s going to bring Android app support to Windows 11 users later this year, it’s remained tight-lipped about specifics. And yes, the Redmond firm regularly says it’s bringing things to users when it actually means that those things are only coming to Windows Insiders, as misleading as that may be.

I had already heard from sources that Android apps in Windows 11 were delayed. What I wasn’t sure about (and I’m still not sure about) is if the delay comes from development of the Windows Subsystem for Android, or if it comes from Amazon’s end of things with building Appstore integration into the Microsoft Store. I suspect that it’s the latter, as it’s no secret that Microsoft employees have been testing out Android apps on their own devices for a long time now.

There are a few things that can happen here. Microsoft could wait until fall 2022 to release the feature. After all, Windows 11 is only going to be once a year, unlike the biannual schedule that Windows 10 had. It’s possible that the Redmond firm could hold the feature back as a big hero feature for the major update. It’s also possible that Android app support could be delivered as a separate update. The Windows Subsystem for Android could be delivered through Windows Update, and the Amazon Appstore could show up in the Microsoft Store.

Either way, it seems like actual Windows 11 users – meaning those that aren’t beta testers – won’t be seeing Android app support until next year. It’s bad news for those that were looking forward to it. After all, it means that in order to get it, you’ll have to commit to the Windows Insider Program, which can lead you to having a potentially unstable machine for a whole year until next year’s Windows 11 update. Or, you can just buy an Android tablet.

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Nobody should buy the Galaxy Z Fold 3’s official S Pen Case

The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is here, the newest premium foldable from Samsung. Perhaps you’ve even just received your shiny preorder device in the mail. The phone itself is great, definitely the best foldable yet. Samsung is also known for putting out a bevy of accessories with each flagship launch. In general, Samsung accessories tend to be well built with a number of useful features. At Samsung Unpacked, Samsung did unveil the S Pen Case for the Galaxy Z Fold 3, a flip case that not only protected the new foldable but also had a storage area for the S Pen Fold Edition. Unfortunately, this new Galaxy Z Fold 3 Flip Cover with S Pen is neither well-built nor useful.

The case itself looks decent enough out of the box. In fact, snapping the case on is fairly intuitive as well. If you view the case only from the back, it’s actually not that bad, albeit a little bulky for sure.

The textured material adds some grip to the Z Fold 3, which is nice for such an expensive device. You also get a sleeve for storing the S Pen, which is detachable should you want to use the S Pen without the case. All of these things sound great, so what’s the problem?

The issue lies with the front cover and the extra width needed for the S pen slot.

Cover Display issues

My biggest concern is that the front of the flip cover will not close properly to fully protect the cover display on the Galaxy Z Fold 3. You can try to carefully slide the case over the edge of the phone’s cover screen, but it snaps back to a position where a small sliver of the screen remains exposed. The only way to keep the flip cover properly in place is to hold it there with your hand, obviously not practical or ideal on a daily basis. Some Reddit users mockingly suggested using a rubber band to hold the flip cover in place, which is an indication of the shortcoming of this $80 case. Surely Samsung could have engineered a better solution here? They made a really good pair of foldables after all, so this case is perplexing.

Folding the cover back reveals additional usability problems. When using the Galaxy Z Fold 3’s cover display, the flip cover adds considerable bulk and makes using the phone difficult when folded back. The edge of the cover is so wide that it protrudes from the rear of Fold 3’s cover display. One of the primary appeals of the cover display on the Z Fold 3 is for one-handed use, which this Flip cover makes very difficult.

Unfolded issues

If you decide to unfold your Galaxy Z Fold 3, the Flip Cover with S Pen continues to make using the phone more difficult. The left edge of this case now sticks out from the left side of the Z Fold 3, making it incredibly difficult to use the phone, even with two hands! If you have a dominant left hand, single-hand use is practically impossible.

I would contend that this inconvenience takes away the appeal of having the S Pen stowed in the case. It’s awfully difficult to write with the S Pen in the unfolded orientation because you need to balance the case awkwardly in your other hand. The Flip Cover with S Pen also does not lay flat on a desk or table, so you can’t put it down to use the S Pen more reliably.

I’ve used a lot of Samsung cases over the years, for almost every flagship they’ve released. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 Flip Cover with S Pen is one of the worst designs I’ve ever seen. After using this case for a few days, my best advice is to remove the detachable S Pen silo and throw the case in the trash. You can find other better uses for your $80.

If you do need a case, these are some of the Best Galaxy Z Fold 3 cases, and we’ll be adding some S Pen storage cases as soon as we spot some good ones.

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These are the Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 Cases in September: Spigen, Ringke, and more!

Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 3, their best foldable phone yet, right alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 3 which is a compact, clamshell smartphone with high-end internals. If you’ve decided to get the more affordable Galaxy Z Flip 3, which by the way still isn’t cheap at almost a thousand bucks, the last thing you want to end up with is a scratched-up phone or even worse, a cracked display and back. The Galaxy Z Flip 3, like most modern-day smartphones, is made up of glass and no matter how resilient Gorilla Glass Victus is, it’s quite easy to shatter if you drop your phone on a hard surface. Samsung is portraying the Galaxy Z Flip 3 as a device that adds to your style statement and you can amplify that notion by customizing the phone with a good case.

While you can get a Samsung Care+ plan with the phone to cover accidental damage, it’s always better to prevent any damage from happening in the first place. The best way to protect your Galaxy Z Flip 3 would be to put on a case. Some cases not only provide protection but also improve the usability or the grip of your phone. Here are some of the best Galaxy Z Flip 3 cases that you can buy right now across various price segments.

Galaxy Z Flip 3 Ring Case

Ring on the back

This ring case from Samsung will help you grip the Z Flip 3 better by letting you insert your finger into the ring while using the phone.

View at Samsung

Samsung Belt Case

Belt for grip

This case has a belt on the back which you can slide your hands into while using the phone. It even gives the phone a cool look.

View at Samsung

Samsung Carbon Fiber Case

Thin and classy

If you're a fan of carbon fiber, you're really going to like this case. It's thin and doesn't add a lot of bulk to the device. Provides a stealthy look.

View at Samsung

Sunstory Z Flip 3 Case

Leather feel

This case is made up of hard polycarbonate but has a soft leather feel on the outside. It's cheap and looks decent.

View at Amazon

Spigen Tough Armor

Best protection

This case from Spigen is for those who want the best protection against drops even on hard surfaces. it even looks good.

View at Amazon

Faseer Crystal Clear Case

Transparent housing

If you want to show off the back of your new, colorful Galaxy Z Flip 3, this crystal clear case will let you do just that without breaking the bank.

View at Amazon

Spigen Thin Fit

Minimal protection

Spigen is known to make good cases and this one for the Galaxy Z Flip 3 fits snug and provides minimal protection against scratches and drops.

View at Amazon

Ringke slim case

Clear and protective

This case from Ringke has a translucent back giving your phone a frosted look. It also provides a good deal of protection while being slim.

View at Amazon

Spigen Air Skin

Another clear case

If you want a crystal clear case from a reputed brand, this one from Spigen should be your option. It's slim and doesn't add a lot of bulk.

View at Amazon

VRS Design Quickstand Active

Built-in kickstand

The Z Flip 3 can technically be used as a kickstand in the Flex Mode but if you want more flexibility, this case has a kickstand built-in!

View at Amazon

Vizvera Hard Case

Multiple color options

The Galaxy Z Flip 3 comes in a variety of colors but if you want to switch it up, you can get a few of these cases in different colors.

View at Amazon

Slim Leather case

Affordable alternative

If you find the official leather case to be too expensive, this cheaper version looks similar, is thin, and provides decent protection.

View at Amazon

Since the Galaxy Z Flip 3 has just been launched and is a new device, there aren’t a lot of third-party cases you can buy at the moment. We’ve mentioned the best cases as of now which are mostly first-party cases directly from Samsung but there should be more options from case makers soon. The carbon fiber case is a thin case so if you’re looking for minimal protection with good looks, that’s the one you should opt for. If you’re looking for a case that will help you grip or hold the phone better when using it, the ring case and the belt case will serve the purpose well. If you want maximum protection, the Spigen Tough Armor is the case to pick.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3

The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is Samsung's latest clamshell foldable that offers a bigger outer display, high refresh rate inner display, and top-of-the-line hardware.

Buy from Samsung

If you’re looking to get your hands on the latest foldable from Samsung, you might want to check out the best Galaxy Z Flip 3 deals that can help you save a few extra bucks. If you’ve got the elder sibling, the Galaxy Z Fold 3, we’ve got a list of the best cases for that phone as well.

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