Like any well-adjusted technology enthusiast, you’re probably a big fan of USB-C: reversible, elegant, ubiquitous. Its adoption has been so lauded that’s its little wonder we can’t help but turn our faces in disgust whenever we’re forced to deal with legacy micro-USB (and do not even get us started on mini). But for as much as we like about it, USB-C is a lot more than just a super-handy physical connector, and depending on the devices we’re using with it, there can be a lot of (sometimes confusing) differences about the features it supports.
That’s true not just across manufacturers, but even within the same hardware families — just look at data speeds on Apple’s iPhone 15 and 16 series, where the lower-model phones are stuck with 480Mbps over USB 2.0, while the Pro editions get USB 3.1 Gen 2×1 and blistering 10Gbps performance. That’s an order of magnitude improvement, but you wouldn’t have any real sense of the potential there by just looking at their USB-C ports alone. And this isn’t even touching on differing levels of charging support.
Granted, Apple is a relatively new player in terms of USB-C on phones, but with such a modest lineup of devices, and a reputation for delivering user experiences that “just work,” would we be wrong for expecting more? Is it even fair to compare one manufacturer against the behavior of Android as a platform? It’s definitely a more complicated question than that simple-looking little connector might intimate, so we thought we might as well put it to you:
Has the iPhone done a better job with USB-C than Android?
USB-C support on Android may vary wildly across manufacturers, but either you’re holding Apple to a higher standard, or you think everyone’s doing a pretty similar job, because hardly any of you think Apple’s putting on the best show here.
In the comments, we do see some support for that “higher standard” idea, pointing to Apple’s ridiculously vast resources, for example. But also, there are a lot of voices that seem dismissive of this whole discussion, seemingly uninterested in measuring just how fast their phones charge or how quickly they can transfer files — that they do it at all is good enough. Based on the numbers we see in the actual poll, though, that just seems to be a particularly loud minority.
We guess that leaves the ball in your court, Apple: Go ahead and impress us with your USB-C implementation on next year’s iPhone 17 family.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at [email protected]. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.
Panels is introducing a new $2/mo subscription tier.
Annoying ads are being removed from the wallpaper feed, but you can choose to watch short ads to unlock HD content.
Permissions issues have also been sorted, and the app has reined in its access to that which is necessary.
Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) has got to be one of the most respected and beloved voices in mobile tech — so it was a bit of a rude awakening a couple weeks back when the internet collectively turned on him in the wake of the release of his subscription-based wallpaper app, Panels, for iOS and Android. Rather than pushing back against that tide, Brownlee was quick to publicly embrace the criticism, and promised to do better. In a new video out today, the creator outlines what’s changing for Panels going forward.
Slapping a new wallpaper on your phone can be a quick, fun way to make it feel fresh, so we understand the desire to always have access to hot new designs — that’s exactly why we come through every week with our own Wallpaper Wednesday, hooking you up with some great options to try. While you get those at Android Authority for free, Brownlee decided to charge $12/month or $50/year for full access to Panel’s wallpapers.
That pricing probably would have been contentious enough, but concerns over the broad, privacy-impacting permissions the app requested really helped solidify the pushback against Panels.
In his latest video, Brownlee takes a step back and starts by trying to explain why he even began this project in the first place. One of the first missteps he acknowledges is that Panels should have always been a free app, first and foremost. Going forward, you’ll be able to browse 1080p wallpapers for free without all the annoying ads from before — higher-res options can also be unlocked by choosing to watch an ad.
Rather not even see that kind of ad? Panels Plus subscriptions will now be available in two tiers, and for just $2/month you can get all those full-res wallpapers without the ads. In addition to those one-off wallpapers, the app will feature collections of wallpapers from individual artists, available for purchase à la carte for a few bucks. But if you’d rather just unlock all collections at once, the higher-tier Panels Plus unlimited subscription is what you’ll want, and this one matches the old $12/month pricing, or $50 annually.
As for permissions and privacy, Brownlee admits that his team erred on the side of telling app stores that Panels would potentially be interested in a lot more access than the app actually uses at the moment, and it really didn’t need to shoot this broadly. That’s reportedly now being fixed.
Brownlee also goes over a lot of criticism he’s heard about the app itself, just as a piece of software, and changes are already being made — like to the way it now flags content generated or manipulated with the help of AI. If you’re a fan of Marques, you’ll want to give the whole thing a watch, because it seems clear he really cares here and is listening to your thoughts about how to make Panels better.
What do you think about this whole controversy? Has MKBHD finally sorted everything out, or are you still harboring bad feelings? Let us know in the comments.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at [email protected]. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.
Multiple ECOVACS Deebot X2 robot vacuums were reportedly hacked in cities across the US.
It’s claimed that the hacked robots did everything from yelling slurs at owners to chasing pets.
Security researchers had notified the company that significant security flaws were found in its robots and the app that controls them.
Cybersecurity is not something to take lightly, and a new report about a smart home product perfectly highlights that point. Over the course of several days, multiple robot vacuums were hacked in cities across the US.
ABC News in Australia reports that hackers were able to take full control over robot vacs in multiple cities around the country. The hack allowed the attackers to yell racial slurs at owners, remotely control the device to chase after pets, and see through the vacuum’s camera. All of the affected robot vacuums were of the same make and model, the Chinese-made ECOVACS Deebot X2.
One report comes from a Minnesota lawyer named Daniel Swenson. In Swenson’s case, he was watching TV when he noticed his vacuum making weird noises, like a “broken-up radio signal or something.” Swenson told the outlet that he reset his password and rebooted the robot after seeing a stranger was accessing the live camera feed and remote control feature. After sitting down on the couch with his wife and 13-year-old son, the robot immediately started moving again and Swenson’s family could hear racist obscenities being spewed as clear as day.
“I got the impression it was a kid, maybe a teenager,” Swenson said. “Maybe they were just jumping from device to device messing with families.” The lawyer has since turned off the device and taken it to his garage where it remains powered down. Despite the creepiness of it all, Swenson says it could’ve been worse, the hacker could have quietly observed his family with no one the wiser. Swenson says he kept the robot on the same floor as the family’s master bathroom, adding that, “Our youngest kids take showers in there.”
The incident in Minnesota happened on May 24, the same day a Deebot X2 was hacked in Los Angeles and used to chase the owner’s dog. Another incident was reported in El Paso where, like in Minnesota, racial slurs were being hurled at the owner until it was unplugged.
It’s unclear how many Deebot X2s were hacked, but ECOVACS was reportedly warned by security researchers six months prior about serious security vulnerabilities in its robots and its app. The most severe flaw was the Bluetooth connector, which could give someone complete access from over 300 feet away — unlikely the cause of these incidents. In December 2023, security researchers Dennis Giese and Braelynn Luedtke also found an issue with the PIN code system protecting the camera feed. The PIN code was only checked by the app and not by a server or the robot, which means the check could be bypassed if you have the technical know-how.
ECOVACS was warned of this issue before the pair went public with the exploit. A spokesperson claims the vulnerability has been fixed, but Giese told ABC that the solution was insufficient.
According to the publication, ECOVACS plans on releasing a patch for the Deebot X2 in November. It’s also said the company has sent an email to customers prompting them to change their passwords.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at [email protected]. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.
We’re back with a new list for the week — and we’ve got a mystery starring Cate Blanchett this time! There’s also a much-awaited new season for a beloved show and a dating reality show set in the unlikeliest of places.
The best new streaming shows this week
Feel free to click on any links that pique your interest.
Love Is Blind, Habibi – October 10, Netflix
Release date: October 10, 2024
Genre: Reality, Romance
Rating: TV-MA
Director: Chris Coelen
Cast: Elham Ali, Khaled Saqer
This new spin-off of the popular Love Is Blind franchise brings the social experiment to the Arab world for the first time. A group of singles from various Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Syria, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, and Iraq, enter the pods in Dubai hoping to find true love. As in previous versions, the participants go on a series of “blind” dates, communicating only through audio without being able to see each other. Those who form strong connections can get engaged before even seeing their partner face-to-face.
After the engagements, the newly formed couples finally meet in person and are whisked away on a romantic retreat to test their physical chemistry. Then, they return to Dubai to live together and merge their lives in the real world, meeting each other’s family and friends. Throughout the process, the couples must decide if their emotional connection is strong enough to overcome physical or lifestyle incompatibilities.
Outer Banks (Season 4) – October 10, Netflix
Release date: October 10, 2024
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Rating: TV-MA
Director: Josh Pate, Jonas Pate, Shannon Burke
Cast: Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, Madison Bailey, Jonathan Daviss, Rudy Pankow, Drew Starkey, Charles Esten
The Pogue’s plans for a quiet life are quickly derailed when a mysterious new threat emerges. A dangerous rival group learns of another legendary treasure with ties to John B’s family history. Soon the friends are pulled into a new hunt that takes them to uncharted territories and puts them in the crosshairs of powerful enemies. As they follow the clues, they uncover shocking secrets about the island’s past and John B’s parents.
Action-packed sequences unfold as the Pogues face treacherous terrains, deadly traps, and ruthless adversaries in their quest. Old foes like Rafe and Topper resurface, complicating matters further. The stakes are higher than ever as the friends must rely on their bond to survive escalating dangers. Expect stunning coastal scenery, heart-pounding chases, narrow escapes, and emotional twists that will keep you on the edge of your seats.
Disclaimer – October 11, Apple TV Plus
Release date: October 11, 2024
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Rating: TV-MA
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Cast: Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, Sacha Baron Cohen, Lesley Manville, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Louis Partridge, Leila George
This psychological thriller series, based on the novel by Renée Knight, stars Cate Blanchett as Catherine Ravenscroft, a successful television documentary filmmaker. Catherine’s carefully curated life is thrown into chaos when a mysterious novel called “The Perfect Stranger” appears on her bedside table. As she begins reading, she’s horrified to realize the book contains a thinly veiled account of a secret from her past that she’s kept buried for decades.
The series accurately describes the stories we tell ourselves to justify our actions. It keeps you guessing about the exact nature of Catherine’s truth and whether revenge is justified. Shocking twists and reveals build to a climax where long-buried truths finally come to light, forcing Catherine to face the consequences of her past.
Sweetpea – October 10, Starz
Release date: October 10, 2024
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Rating: TV-MA
Director: Kirstie Swain
Cast: Ella Purnell, Nicôle Lecky, Jonathan Pointing, Calam Lynch, Leah Harvey, Jeremy Swift, Dustin Demri-Burns
By day, Rhiannon works as a junior copywriter at the local newspaper and maintains a facade of normalcy. But she harbors a deadly secret — she’s a serial killer with an insatiable appetite for murder. The series delves into Rhiannon’s troubled past, revealing the traumas that shaped her into the complex antihero she’s become.
We see her navigating everyday life. But all the while, she’s meticulously planning her next kill. As the body count rises, Rhiannon must stay one step ahead of suspicion. To make matters worse, her carefully compartmentalized worlds begin to collide when a figure from her past resurfaces, threatening to expose her true nature.
Citadel: Diana – October 10, Prime Video
Release date: October 10, 2024
Genre: Action, Drama, Science Fiction
Rating: TV-MA
Director: Alessandro Fabbri
Cast: Matilda De Angelis, Lorenzo Cervasio, Maurizio Lombardi, Julia Piaton, Thekla Reuten, Giordana Faggiano, Daniele Paoloni
Diana is ostensibly a loyal Manticore operative, but in reality, she’s a double agent working to uncover the truth behind Citadel’s fall and her parents’ mysterious deaths years earlier. As the series opens, Diana is tasked with tracking secret meetings between French and German Manticore factions, hinting at power struggles within the organization.
The series is packed with sleek, futuristic tech and elaborate action sequences. Diana utilizes an array of high-tech gadgets and weapons as she engages in heart-pounding chases through Milan’s streets and treacherous infiltration missions. Her skills are put to the test as she faces off against other highly trained operatives and grapples with Manticore’s advanced surveillance capabilities.
What was new and worth watching over the last month
Missed our other lists? Here’s a quick recap. Also, check out our list of streaming movies if you’re in the mood for something longer this weekend.
Making It in Marbella – October 1, Netflix
Release date: October 1, 2024
Genre: Reality
Rating: TV-MA
Director: Erin Ebbing
Cast: Anzu Lawson, Eric Ebbing, Damla Yaraman
This new reality series follows the glamorous lives and professional dramas of luxury real estate agents in sun-soaked Marbella, Spain. At high-end brokerage Homerun Brokers, ambitious agents compete to sell multi-million euro properties to wealthy international clients.
Founder Eric Ebbing struggles to keep his unruly team in line as they balance beach club partying with closing big deals. Rising star Robert Bazo eyes a promotion to the C-suite, but faces opposition from rival Miah van der Bilt. Meanwhile, Eric’s wife Jennifer cracks the whip on the marketing team. With stunning villas, yacht parties, and plenty of backstabbing, it’s Selling Sunset meets the Costa del Sol.
The latest season of this acclaimed documentary series spotlights four master noodle makers from around the world. Episodes profile chefs who have dedicated their lives to perfecting pasta, ramen, and other noodle dishes. Featured chefs include Evan Funke, a Los Angeles-based pasta expert who learned his craft in Bologna, Italy.
You get an intimate look at the painstaking techniques, cultural traditions, and personal stories behind these chef’s noodle-making artistry. With the show’s signature stunning cinematography, this season promises to be a feast for the senses.
Gremlins: The Wild Batch (Season 2) – October 3, Max
The mischievous Mogwai are back for more mayhem in this animated series. In Season 2, Gizmo and his pals head to San Francisco on a mission to capture evil Mogwai. But the City by the Bay holds new dangers and adventures, from escape attempts to run-ins with local Chinatown gangs.
As always, keeping the cute but troublesome creatures away from water and midnight snacks proves challenging. With a blend of humor and mild scares, this series continues the legacy of the beloved Gremlins films for a new generation.
Where’s Wanda? – October 2, Apple TV Plus
Release date: October 2, 2024
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Rating: N.A.
Director: Zoltan Spirandelli, Oliver Lansley
Cast: Heike Makatsch, Axel Stein, Lea Drinda, Nikeata Thompson, Leo Simon, Palina Rojinski, Kostja Ullmann
This German-language series puts a darkly comic spin on the missing person drama. When 17-year-old Wanda vanishes without a trace, her parents Dedo and Carlotta Klatt take increasingly desperate and illegal measures to find her. As the 100-day mark approaches — after which chances of finding her alive plummet — the Klatts resort to secretly bugging their neighbor’s homes.
Their amateur sleuthing efforts lead to mishaps and unexpected revelations about their small town. Blending crime thriller suspense with outrageous humor, the show keeps viewers guessing about Wanda’s true fate.
Curses! (Season 2) – October 4, Apple TV Plus
Release date: October 4, 2024
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure
Rating: TV-G
Director: Jim Cooper, Jeff Dixon
Cast: Andre Robinson, Gabrielle Nevaeh Green, Lyric Lewis, Reid Scott, Rhys Darby, James Marsters, Rhea Perlman
This animated series for kids continues the adventures of siblings Pandora and Russ as they work to break an ancient family curse. With help from their mother Sky and magical companions like Stanley the wooden idol, they search for mystical artifacts that may hold the key to freeing their petrified father.
Each episode sees the Vanderhoven family tackling a new supernatural challenge tied to myths and legends from around the world. Blending action, comedy, and mild scares, the show aims to introduce younger viewers to the world of fantasy-adventure storytelling.
Penelope – September 24, Netflix
Release date: September 24, 2024
Genre: Drama
Rating: N.A.
Director: Mel Eslyn, Mark Duplass
Cast: Megan Stott, Krisha Fairchild, Amber Wolfe Wollam, Cynthia Geary, Austin Abrams, Barry O’Neil, Eddie Lee Wollrabe
16-year-old Penelope abandons her modern life for a solitary journey into Washington state. Feeling disconnected from the world around her, Penelope steals camping equipment and sneaks into a national park, determined to live off the land and find herself in nature.
As she struggles to adapt to life in the forest, Penelope faces physical and emotional challenges that test her resolve. She learns survival skills, builds a makeshift shelter, and forms an unlikely bond with the local wildlife. Along the way, she encounters an eccentric guitarist, a group of religious teens on a retreat, and an elderly conservationist dedicated to protecting the ancient trees.
Everything Calls for Salvation (Season 2) – September 26, Netflix
Release date: September 26, 2024
Genre: Drama
Rating: TV-MA
Director: Francesco Bruni
Cast: Federico Cesari, Andrea Pennacchi, Bianca Nappi, Ricky Memphis, Filippo Nigro, Fotinì Peluso, Lorenzo Renzi
Two years after his transformative experience in a psychiatric ward, Daniele Cenni finds himself facing a new chapter filled with unexpected challenges and profound personal growth. Now a father to young Maria, Daniele must navigate the complexities of co-parenting amidst a turbulent custody battle with his ex-partner, Nina.
Driven by a desire to give back to the community that once supported him, Daniele makes a bold career change. He returns to the psychiatric hospital where he was once a patient, this time as a nurse. The fine line between caregiver and patient blurs, challenging Daniele’s resolve and forcing him to question whether he can truly save others while still fighting for his own salvation.
Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal (Season 1) – September 24, Hulu
Release date: September 24, 2024
Genre: Documentary
Rating: N.A.
Director: Ben Klein
Cast: Steve Iavarone, Pamela Perry, W. Scott Poole
This new true crime docuseries examines real-life criminal cases with bizarre paranormal elements. The series premiere focuses on a 2020 explosion in downtown Nashville, tied to a man deeply invested in the “lizard people” conspiracy theory. There are other cases too, explored in the subsequent episodes.
Through interviews with experts, witnesses, and law enforcement, the show examines the evidence behind these cases and the impact of paranormal beliefs on criminal investigations. While maintaining a skeptical approach, Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal invites viewers to consider the unexplained and question the boundaries between fact and fiction in the criminal justice system.
Crime Scene Kitchen (Season 3) – September 27, Hulu
Release date: September 26, 2024
Genre: Reality
Rating: N.A.
Director: Harbinder Singh
Cast: Joel McHale, Curtis Stone, Yolanda Gampp, T Lawrence-Simon, Fadi Odeh, Amber Croom, Yassmeen Haskins
The hit culinary detective competition returns with a sweet new twist. This season, instead of pairing professional and amateur bakers, Crime Scene Kitchen brings together teams of friends and family members to test their combined sleuthing and baking skills.
The competition is divided into two rounds per episode. In the first “safety bake,” teams investigate the crime scene kitchen and attempt to replicate the dessert. The team that comes closest earns immunity and advances to the next week. The remaining teams face an elimination round, where they must bake another mystery dessert. The weakest performing team is sent home each week until a winner is crowned.
Evolution of the Black Quarterback – September 24, Prime Video
Release date: September 24, 2024
Genre: Documentary, Sport
Rating: N.A.
Director: FredAnthony Smith
Cast: Michael Vick, Jamie Foxx, Common, Larry Wilmore
This docuseries explores the rich and complex history of Black quarterbacks in professional football. Through archival footage, interviews with players past and present, and expert commentary, the series traces the journey of African American athletes in the most prominent and scrutinized position on the field.
The show examines the persistent myths and biases that kept Black players from the quarterback position, including false narratives about intelligence and leadership abilities. It also celebrates the unique talents and playing styles that Black quarterbacks brought to the game, reimagining the position and the sport as a whole.
A new report suggests that Samsung is considering a slimmer design for the Galaxy S25 FE.
The device could feature a 6.7-inch display and may pack a thinner battery.
Rumor has it that the company could offer it with a MediaTek Dimensity chipset.
Samsung seems to be betting big on slimmer designs to reignite interest in its devices. We’ve already seen multiple reports suggesting that the company is working on a thinner Galaxy Z Fold 6 and its next Galaxy S series flagship is also rumored to be the slimmest and lightest Ultra model to date. Now, a new report suggests that the company could take a similar design approach for the Galaxy S25 FE.
Although it has only been a few days since the Galaxy S24 FE hit the market, Samsung appears to have started work on its successor. According to The Elec (via Neowin), the company plans to launch an FE version of its upcoming flagship Galaxy S25 series next year and it’s currently considering a new, slimmer design for the device.
The report states that Samsung could launch the Galaxy S25 FE as a slim model and equip it with a 6.7-inch display. To achieve a slimmer form factor, it’s speculated that the device may pack a thinner battery with a larger surface area. However, it’s too early to say if that will be the case.
In addition to a slimmer design, the Galaxy S25 FE could arrive with a MediaTek Dimensity chipset. Tipster Junkanlosreve, who previously claimed that Samsung would offer the base Galaxy S25 with a MediaTek chip, now says (via GSMArena) that the South Korean giant has had a change of plans and will use the Dimensity chip for the Galaxy S25 FE instead.
The Galaxy S25 FE is still in an early stage of development, so we’re taking these rumors with a pinch of salt. Samsung will likely make further changes before the device hits the market late next year.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at [email protected]. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.
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.
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.
Get cozy and nestle up with Google’s latest smart speaker.
Nest Audio is an approachable, entry-level smart speaker for the minimalist music lover. This compact speaker produces excellent audio quality for its size, and is a great jack-of-all-trades. Google Assistant and Chromecast integration make it easy to set reminders, make inquiries, stream your favorite podcasts, and more. For under $100, the Nest Audio speaker is a great value.
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.
A better camera is a must, but this goes beyond just improving the sensors
Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority
Google Pixel 8a (left) vs, Motorola Edge (2024) (right)
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.
Motorola Edge (2025): What change would you most like to see?
82 votes
Will there be a Motorola Edge (2025)?
Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority
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.
Should you wait for the Motorola Edge (2025)?
Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority
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.
Rich OLED display Tons of Tensor G3-powered features Pixel-pedigree cameras
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.
Established in 1996, KDE is a graphical desktop environment for Linux and Unix-like operating systems.
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.
KDE neon
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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.
Debian KDE
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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.
Kubuntu
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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.
openSUSE
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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.
EndeavorOS
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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.
Manjaro
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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.
KaOS
Andy Walker / Android Authority
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.
Gamers using T-Mobile’s Home Internet service report they are unable to play online games.
Users also claim they are unable to use voice chat services and VPNs.
The problem is connected to the latest firmware update for a specific gateway model.
T-Mobile is aware of the issue and is fixing it.
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.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at [email protected]. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.
Google is developing a Linux terminal app for Android.
The Terminal app can be enabled via developer options and will install Debian in a virtual machine.
This app is likely intended for Chromebooks but might also be available for mobile devices, too.
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.
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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.
Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority
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.
Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority
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.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at [email protected]. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.
