Category: Blogging ideas

Google’s Nest smart speakers are great, but they are not as accessible as Amazon’s Echo options, and they also rarely go on sale. If you’ve been waiting for a good deal on Google’s smart higher-end smart speaker, today is your chance. The Google Nest Audio speaker is 45% off, slashing the price down to just $54.99.

Buy the Google Nast Audio smart speaker for only $54.99

This offer is available from Best Buy, which we’re focusing on for the sake of convenience. That said, you can also get the Nest Audio for $54.99 straight from Google. The offer applies to both the Charcoal and Chalk color models.

The Google Nest Audio is a great smart speaker. I’ve personally compared it to the Amazon Echo, its direct competitor, and can say the Nest Audio’s sound quality is much better. It also looks really nice, featuring a fabric cover that will make it blend into any environment elegantly.

Of course, looks and sound quality are only part of the equation. This is a smart speaker, after all, and it is full of intelligent features. The Nest Audio gives you direct access to Google Assistant, so you can use voice commands to get information, set timers, create alarms, use routines, manage reminders, play music, control your smart home devices, and much more. It also comes with Chromecast support, making it simple to Cast media to it from any smart device. You can even set up a couple of speakers for stereo sound, and you can also set up multi-room playback.

Remember, the Google Nest Audio isn’t discounted very often, so take the chance while you can. We’re not sure when we’ll see it at this lower price point again, and we don’t know when this sale ends.

While the Motorola Edge Plus series has received a lot of praise from Android Authority and other tech reviewers, the mid-range Edge has often had a more mixed reception. We gave it positive marks in 2023, but we had more complaints about the follow-up Motorola Edge (2024). Even if I find it hard to get excited about that one, maybe Motorola’s next swing will strike a little closer to the mark. With that in mind, here’s what I’m hoping to see from the Motorola Edge (2025).

Better performance is needed from a mid-ranger in 2024 and beyond

The Motorola Edge (2024) saw some positive changes, but others sounded better on paper than in reality. While the Edge moved away from MediaTek chips, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 that powers the 2024 model was never a flawless performer. This decision was even more disappointing when you consider that this chip was at the very end of its shelf life, with new Gen 3 models right around the corner.

The truth is, the Edge (2024) only saw minor improvements in CPU, GPU, and battery efficiency over the MediaTek Dimensity 7030 found in the older model. This wouldn’t matter so much if it were priced a bit lower than other mid-rangers, but the Pixel 8a is actually cheaper, and the even more powerful Galaxy S23 FE is only slightly more expensive. If Motorola wants to stand out in the mid-range market, it needs more performance power.

I realize that Qualcomm has stronger brand recognition, but I feel Motorola would be better served to stick with MediaTek going forward, and switching to a higher-performance chip than it used previously in the 2023 Motorola Edge. The truth is that MediaTek has improved significantly in recent years, and several of its top chips come close to keeping up with the big players in 2024, making them a better fit than the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s when it comes to balancing performance with value. I’d really love to see the Edge (2025) embrace MediaTek (or even consider Exynos) to save money while still offering better performance than a lower-grade Snapdragon.

Let’s be honest, Lenovo and Motorola have never been particularly great when it comes to camera performance. Even when using better sensors than the competition, the results tend to be less impressive, perhaps due to less experience with camera technology and software optimization issues. The Motorola Edge (2024) might have offered an upgraded camera compared to its predecessor, but the 50MP Sony LYT-700C sensor still has issues, including delayed capture times, blurry shots, and other problems, even in good lighting. While it can deliver nice detail, that requires getting the exposure time right, and many of these issues stem from slower performance and capture.

The Edge might be able to take average enough photos in ideal situations, but is that really all people expect from a mid-range device? I don’t think so, especially considering the Pixel 8a costs less and has better camera features, advanced AI, and plenty more. Motorola needs to do more with the Motorola Edge (2025) camera if it wants to keep up with Google and other leaders in the mid-range market. While the hardware likely won’t change as the company just upgraded it last year, Motorola needs to at least invest in software and AI improvements in the next model.

Better software update commitment

I feel like a broken record here, as I mention this point in nearly every Android phone wishlist I’ve written in the last year or so. That’s because Google and Samsung have done a phenomenal job lately offering seven years of OS updates and security patches, not only on flagship devices but even on select mid-range products. Despite me bringing it up a lot, better software updates and real commitment would absolutely help Lenovo a lot here.

I say “real commitment” because the company has had a shaky record when it comes to sticking with its already pretty meager update policy, which promises at least two OS upgrades and three years of security patches. While it eventually delivers, the wait times for updates are almost always significantly longer than the competition. Next year, this needs to change, especially since 2024 hasn’t been a good year for Motorola. While the 2023 Motorola phones received a fair amount of praise, there have been many more questionable decisions this year. That means Motorola has a lot to prove, and firming up its software commitment could go a long way, especially when combined with a better SoC and camera package.

Pricing for this mid-ranger could use some work

Two years of OS updates and middling performance could have been tolerated better if Motorola had priced the Edge (2024) at around $450, as it would have undercut the Pixel 8a and made the weaker camera more acceptable.

Wouldn’t it make more sense to price it more attractively from the start and keep pricing more consistent throughout the year? At $450, the Motorola Edge’s shortcomings this year would have been more forgivable. It would also be easier to keep pricing down if the company switches back to MediaTek, even with a more powerful chip in MediaTek’s lineup. Therefore, I’d like to see the Motorola Edge (2025) priced somewhere between $450 and $500 next year.

The Motorola Edge (2024) arrived just four months ago, so it’s still a bit early to think about the Edge (2025) arriving just yet. However, there’s every reason to believe it will eventually happen. Motorola has been pushing the Edge and Edge Plus series for a few years now, and it’s become one of the company’s best products, even if the Motorola Edge (2024) had its fair share of flaws.

As for when it might arrive? Let’s take a look at the Edge’s historical release dates:

• Motorola Edge (2024) — June 20, 2024
• Motorola Edge (2023) — October 11, 2023
• Motorola Edge (2022) — September 22, 2023

Previously, Motorola would launch its mid-range model in late summer or early fall, but this year the company released it earlier than ever before, making it a more direct competitor to the Pixel 8a. It’s hard to say if this trend will continue next year, but it’s certainly possible that a summer release will become the new norm.

The Motorola Edge (2024) isn’t a bad device, but its limitations and high pricing make it a hard sell when there are phones like the Google Pixel 8a that offer a better camera experience and more, while still costing around $50 less. Not to mention, the Pixel 8 can often be found on sale for around the same price as the Edge (2024) but with better software update support and more features. Honestly, if you can find either Google phone for sale, both are going to offer a better experience than the Motorola Edge can.

If you’re set on getting a Motorola Edge, you might want to hold off. The Motorola Edge (2024) received more criticism compared to its predecessor, and hopefully, next year’s model will be better. Of course, if you do get the Edge (2024), you’ll find it’s a reasonably solid performer — just maybe not a particularly great value.

One of Linux’s standout features is the sheer variety it offers. With countless Linux distributions tailored to different user needs, Linux provides options for servers, desktops, lightweight systems, and more. However, this abundance of choice can be overwhelming for newcomers. In the guide below, I discuss the best KDE Linux distros. Curious? Read on.

What is KDE, KDE Plasma, and Qt?

Before exploring the distributions in particular, let’s first clarify what KDE is. Established in 1996, KDE is a graphical desktop environment for Linux and Unix-like operating systems. It was named as a playful nod to the then-existing Common Desktop Environment (CDE) used in commercial Unix systems. KDE utilizes the Qt toolkit for creating user interfaces.

In 2009, KDE underwent a rebranding, splitting into smaller projects: KDE Plasma (the desktop), KDE Gear (the apps), and KDE Frameworks (the libraries). This separation allows each component to progress independently. The most visible aspect is KDE Plasma, the desktop environment.

Significant releases include KDE Plasma 5, launched in 2014, which fully migrated to QML and utilized OpenGL for hardware acceleration, enhancing fluidity and response time. Plasma 6, released in 2024, shifts the default display server from X11 to Wayland, although X11 remains available. Plasma 6 is built on Qt 6, KDE Frameworks 6, and KDE Gear 24.02.

We should also briefly touch on Qt, a cross-platform application development framework for creating graphical user interfaces, which has been available since 1995. It operates under a dual license: GPL/LGPL and a commercial license. The LGPL version allows closed-source applications, while the commercial license permits proprietary applications without open-source restrictions. Qt has been highly successful and is the foundation upon which KDE is built.

The best KDE-based Linux distributions available

Below is a list of my favorite KDE Linux distros. Watch the video above for a more detailed look at these distros, including their installation process.

Developed by KDE, neon is the show pony release and showcases KDE as intended by its developers using Ubuntu’s long-term release (currently 22.04). It’s ideal for more technical users seeking the latest KDE updates and bleeding-edge offerings. neon provides a rolling KDE release with frequent updates, while the underlying Ubuntu base remains stable.

Known for stability and a vast package repository, Debian also offers KDE Plasma as a desktop option. It’s a foundational distro for others like Ubuntu. Debian champions open source, with KDE 5 and Wayland support.

An official Ubuntu variant with KDE, Kubuntu offers long-term support and a stable environment. It features X11 and KDE 5, with a large community and extensive package availability.

A popular alternative to mainstream distros, openSUSE offers KDE, XFCE, or GNOME as desktop environment options. It provides a rolling release (Tumbleweed) and a stable version, with KDE 6 and X11 support.

Based on Arch Linux, EndeavorOS offers a rolling release with the latest software. It includes Wayland and KDE 6, providing a visually appealing experience.

CachyOS is an Arch-based distro optimized for performance. It uses a custom kernel and supports modern hardware. It features Wayland and KDE 6 and focuses on security and performance.

Arch-based distro, Manjaro emphasizes user-friendliness. It offers a rolling release, access to the Arch user repository, and a dedicated Manjaro repository. Manjaro includes X11 and KDE 6.

Finally, we have KaOS. It’s an independent distro focused on Qt and KDE and offers a tightly integrated, rolling distribution for modern desktops. It supports only 64-bit architecture and provides a curated package repository.

Which KDE Linux distribution is best for you?

For the latest KDE experience directly from the KDE project, choose neon. Debian or Kubuntu are excellent choices for fans of those particular ecosystems. Arch enthusiasts will find EndeavorOS appealing, while openSUSE offers a unique alternative outside the usual Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, and Arch lineage.

Do you have a favorite KDE-based Linux distribution? Let us know your pick in the comments.

Getting kicked out of or being completely unable to play your online games is frustrating, but that’s the situation some T-Mobile Home Internet users are finding themselves in today. The issue appears to be affecting other services too.

Multiple reports on Reddit claim there is an issue with T-Mobile’s Home Internet, preventing customers from playing games online and using voice chat services. Another report adds that the issue is affecting VPNs as well.

It seems that the problem emerged after the latest firmware update (version 1.03.19) rolled out to the Sercomm G4SE gateway model. Not to be confused with the G4AR, which looks similar but is unaffected by the issue.

Some users claim they were able to fix the problem by changing out the gateway with a model on older firmware. However, they also say the gateway on the older firmware will update to version 1.03.19 eventually.

According to The Mobile Report, T-Mobile is aware of the issue and is working on it. The carrier’s PR team provided the outlet with the following statement:

Thanks for reaching out on this. We’re aware of an issue that’s intermittently impacting service for a small number of Home Internet customers and are actively working to resolve it.

The fact that the company is working on a solution is good news. However, it’s unclear how long customers will have to wait for a hotfix to arrive.

Although a lot of work can be done in a web browser these days, some tasks still require installing apps that aren’t available on Chrome OS, which is why Google lets you install Linux apps on your Chromebook. While there are ways to run some Linux apps on Android devices, all of those methods have some limitations and aren’t officially supported by Google. Fortunately, though, Google is finally working on an official way to run Linux apps on Android.

Engineers at Google started work on a new Terminal app for Android a couple of weeks ago. This Terminal app is part of the Android Virtualization Framework (AVF) and contains a WebView that connects to a Linux virtual machine via a local IP address, allowing you to run Linux commands from the Android host. Initially, you had to manually enable this Terminal app using a shell command and then configure the Linux VM yourself. However, in recent days, Google began work on integrating the Terminal app into Android as well as turning it into an all-in-one app for running a Linux distro in a VM.

A set of patches under the tag “ferrochrome-dev-option” was recently submitted to AOSP that adds a new developer option called Linux terminal under Settings > System > Developer options. This new option will enable a “Linux terminal app that runs inside the VM,” according to its proposed description. Toggling this option enables the Terminal app that’s bundled with AVF.

Currently, Android’s Terminal app still requires you to manually configure the Linux VM by providing a Debian image and creating a vm_config.json file, but Google plans to upgrade the Terminal app to take care of that for you. In one of the patches under the “ferrochrome-dev-option” tag, Google says that the existing “LinuxInstaller” app, which downloads and configures Debian to run in a VM through AVF, will be “merged to [the] terminal app soon.” This suggests that the Terminal app will become an all-in-one app that downloads, configures, runs, and interfaces with an instance of Debian running in a VM.

Google is still working on improving the Terminal app as well as AVF before shipping this feature. AVF already supports graphics and some input options, but it’s preparing to add support for backing up and restoring snapshots, nested virtualization, and devices with an x86_64 architecture. It’s also preparing to add some settings pages to the Terminal app, which is pretty barebones right now apart from a menu to copy the IP address and stop the existing VM instance. The settings pages will let you resize the disk, configure port forwarding, and potentially recover partitions.

What’s particularly interesting about the patch that adds these settings is that it was tested on “tangorpro” and “komodo,” the codenames for the Pixel Tablet and Pixel 9 Pro XL respectively. This suggests that the Terminal app won’t be limited to Chromebooks like the new desktop versions of Chrome for Android. I don’t know when the Terminal app will land, but it’s possible we could see it arrive in next year’s Android 16 update.

Here’s an early look at how this could work, courtesy of an anonymous developer. What you see below features the current version of the Terminal app, which lacks some of the automations we’re expecting. That’s why you’ll see LinuxInstaller involved at the beginning here, to help set things up:

If you’re wondering why you’d want to run Linux apps on Android, then this feature is probably not for you. Google added Linux support to Chrome OS so developers with Chromebooks can run Linux apps that are useful for development. For example, Linux support on Chrome OS allows developers to run the Linux version of Android Studio, the recommended IDE for Android app development, on Chromebooks. It also lets them run Linux command line tools safely and securely in a container.

Most Chromebooks have x86-based processors, as opposed to most Android devices which have ARM-based ones, so a lot of Linux apps that work on most Chromebooks (like Android Studio) might not work on most Android devices. Still, adding support for Linux apps will greatly improve the utility of Android to developers and make it more viable as a desktop-class platform in the future, especially as more and more apps add support for ARM. Plus, it’s necessary for Google to do as Chrome OS is becoming more like Android, which means it’s adopting more and more of Android’s architecture and frameworks.

Sometimes, all you need is a cheap and cheerful phone case. And that’s precisely what the Ringke Onyx for the Pixel 9 series is.

It’s nothing special, but it ticks all the boxes you’d expect from a case while hitting a price point well below most alternatives. But should you buy it? Here’s what you should consider.

Obviously price is the main draw here, but I actually do think that the Ringke Onyx for the Pixel 9 is a good case. It feels pretty good in hand, with a nice texture on the back and a microdot pattern on the sides for added grip.

The buttons are also good, and the little dot over the volume buttons makes it easy to find without looking. If you’re changing to a Pixel 9 from a completely different design like an iPhone, this can help flatten the learning curve. At least when it comes to adjusting the volume.

There are also two lanyard holes at the bottom, which is a nice feature for all the moms out there who use lanyards. You know who you are.

I also really liked the way the screen lip flattens around the screen, which makes it super easy to use swipe gestures. It’s a lot more pronounced than it is on most cases, although the lip itself still holds onto the screen nicely.

Perhaps the most striking feature of the otherwise plain case is the covered camera bar. This is the only Pixel 9 case I tested with a covered camera bar, and it should help keep those lenses a bit safer. Most other cases use a raised lip, which, to me, is a slightly more elegant solution, but to each their own.

With all that said, you have to keep in mind that this is a cheap TPU case, so drop protection is limited and the overall feel isn’t as premium as more expensive cases from Mous, dbrand, or Peak Design. Even Spigen cases like the Liquid Air ($16.99 at Amazon) felt better in hand, although they tend to run just a bit more expensive.

One advantage of the Ringke Onyx is that there is a version with magnets. I didn’t test this version, and it costs a bit more, but it’s still one of the cheapest magnetic cases for the Pixel 9 series.

As long as you temper your expectations, the Ringke Onyx will not disappoint. Personally, I’d consider slightly more premium cases if you can stretch your budget since they’re more suitable for smartphones as expensive as the Pixel 9 series, especially if you’re looking for a case for the pricier Pixel 9 Pro XL.

This offer is available from Woot!, an Amazon-owned website full of deals. There is a three-unit limit per customer, and the deal will expire in 12 days or until stock runs out. The device is in new condition, and the discount only applies to the Black color version.

The Motorola Razr Plus 2024 is already out, so the 2023 model is a previous-generation device. That said, it is still a great device today, especially if you compare it to current $500 phones. The Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 processor and 8GB of RAM will keep performance running smoothly.

The cover display was among the biggest of its time, making it a very convenient clamshell flip phone to use when closed. The internal display features a 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED panel with a Full HD+ resolution and an outstanding 165Hz refresh rate. It also reproduces 100% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum.

We were big fans of its design, which even included an IP52 rating, a rare feat for a foldable back in 2023. In our experience, battery life averages at about 24 hours, which is actually not too bad considering it has a smaller 3,800mAh battery. The 30W charging juices it up pretty quickly, as well. All things considered, this is pretty much a high-end device from last year, and at $500, we can’t think of anything that can really compete. It’s also a fantastic deal considering the all-time low on Amazon, which, so far, has been $550.

Make sure to get this deal sooner rather than later. While the offer ends in 12 days, stock may run out sooner. Go get yours!

Android Auto and Android Automotive are very popular in cars. They help users use third-party apps on the screens inside the car. This makes sense, as music streaming and navigation are some of the most common use cases for in-car displays. However, navigation is also a common use case for two-wheelers like motorbikes, and having Android Auto or Automotive would be great for bikes, too. If you have such a wish, you might want to consider KTM’s next bike, as it will come with Android Automotive.

Austrian motorcycle brand KTM has announced a new Communication Control Unit (CCU) for its new TFT Dashboard in horizontal and vertical avatars, which will be available first on its upcoming premium motorcycles. The upgraded CCU includes 32GB of internal storage, 3GB of RAM, and connectivity features like eSIM, GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. The best part about this upgrade is that the CCU allows the TFT Dashboard to run Android Automotive.

As Mishaal Rahman points out, Android Automotive OS is open source, so anyone can use it, but we’ve not seen it on motorcycles before. The catch here is that adding Google apps to Android Automotive OS will give it the branding “Cars with Google built-in,” which KTM doesn’t mention, meaning there won’t be Google apps preloaded on the device.

KTM is also integrating offline map navigation into the CCU, providing real-time navigation without syncing or tethering to a mobile phone. This will allow for active route guidance and route planning, along with A-B routes, preprogrammed Points of Interest, and more.

For other details, KTM mentions that the CCU will seamlessly reconnect with your smartphone on every ignition cycle. This will also make it easier to update functions and features throughout the motorcycle’s life. Initial updates will be done through the KTM dealer, but in the future, the motorcycle will be able to receive OTA updates directly.

As a bike rider, I am glad bike makers are taking their first steps to integrate familiar OS interfaces with third-party app support. I personally rely on using Google Maps on my smartwatch to avoid pulling out my phone for directions at every turn. Third-party head units are at risk of theft, so an integrated dashboard with this functionality will be much appreciated.

Google is working on yet another tool to keep you on its Search results page and away from other websites. While AI Overviews pulls its information from a general variety of sources in an attempt to answer any question, its latest feature focuses specifically on the recipe blog industry.

The Mountain View-based firm is currently testing a new Search feature called “Quick View,” as reported by Search Engine Roundtable. When searching for a recipe, some users will now see a Quick View button that appears above recipes from select blogs. Clicking on that button will show the full recipe, complete with ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and photos.

In the example below, you can see a recipe for basil pesto from the blog Love and Lemons. While you can still choose to visit the website, the recipe is right there on Google Search. We have reached out to Love and Lemons for comment.

Regarding the feature, a Google spokesperson told Search Engine Roundtable:

We’re always experimenting with different ways to connect our users with high-quality and helpful information. We have partnered with a limited number of creators to begin to explore new recipe experiences on Search that are both helpful for users and drive value to the web ecosystem. We don’t have anything to announce right now.

We have also reached out to Google for comment. We’ll update this article when new information is available.

The recipe blog industry is the poster child for the power Google has to shape the web. To rank on Search, these blogs are forced to do whatever they can to optimize their site as much as possible. As a result, you get recipe pages stuffed with recipe histories, personal experiences, and other information you probably have no interest in reading.

Google Meet has a nifty Gemini-powered feature that lets users generate custom backgrounds for video calls. The feature is currently limited to the web version, but it could soon make it to Google Meet on Android.

Google debuted the AI-generated background features as part of its Workspace Labs program back in 2023. Although the company has since extended it to all users with a Gemini for Google Workspace add-on or Google One AI Premium subscription, it’s only available through the web version of Google Meet. That could change soon, as we’ve spotted the in-development feature in the latest release of Gmail for Android (v2024.10.06.682972205).

As you can see in the attached screenshots, the feature will appear as a new button labeled “Generate a background” in the Effects menu. Currently, tapping this button opens up a blank page. However, it’s safe to assume that this page, like the web version, will feature a text box for prompts, a style selection menu, and a button to generate custom backgrounds.

On the web version of Google Meet, the feature generates a few samples based on your prompt. If you don’t like any of the initial samples, it also lets you create more samples or edit your prompt to generate different backgrounds. We expect the Android version to offer similar capabilities, but we’ll have to wait until the final rollout to know for sure.