Welcome to leak season

Welcome to leak season. Enjoy the ride.

It's the end of the year, which means cold weather in North America, hangovers for the festivity-goers, and beginning of what we inside the baseball diamond refer to as "leak season." It's slippery during leak season, so bring some salt.

There's a cycle in tech media that resolves in an arc: the early inklings of a story that, initially vapor, builds and eventually coalesces into something tangible. We hear rumors that begin in an ephemeral state, eventually casting themselves in prescient rays of light that you can see but not touch. Over the months, the light hardens and becomes more coherent — photos, videos, specs — as the thing's release date approaches.

The early inklings of a story that, initially vapor, builds and eventually coalesces into something tangible.

Given that CES begins in just a few days, it's the perfect time to remind you that leak season is in full swing and, like snowfalls in the northern hemisphere, the severity ebbs and flows as we approach spring. Over the past few days, we've seen (and reported on) various aspects of phones that will likely be released in 2017: the Galaxy S8, the LG G6, the HTC whatever. We take leaks seriously, and, internally, debate the credulity of each one before reporting. We also judge the reliability of the source, too, the past success of which also dictates whether we follow the story down the proverbial rabbit hole.

At the same time, we also receive leaks, and have to decide whether or not, in the interest of protecting our sources, we publish the information. Of course, there's a business benefit to posting leaks, since the intensity of public interest in pre-release hardware often outweighs (at times dramatically) the equivalent once it has been announced. This is doubly true of devices from manufacturers like Motorola, HTC, Sony and others that have small, loyal followings: the discourse is often hopeful and the communities disproportionately loud, which tends to die down in the weeks and months following availability.

The main issue I see around leaks today is that there are no consequences for getting it wrong. Many publications weave snippets or glances of an outer casing or a spec sheet into a cohesive narrative, large swaths of which is incorrect. But once the product is announced, and gets into people's hands, all is forgiven and forgotten, and we move onto the next cycle. This is nothing new, but it's worth keeping these points in mind as we move into leak season in earnest.

Be skeptical of what you see. Much of what you see out there is either partially or entirely incorrect, and while we're not going to point at individual leaks or sources, I'd encourage you to maintain a healthy amount of skepticism while you enjoy what should be, for all intents and purposes, a piece of entertainment.

Have a happy and healthy new year, and we'll see you in 2017!

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Keep your phone safe in the car with this $10 magnetic car mount!

One of your resolutions for 2017 should definitely be to keep your phone out of your hands when you are driving, and this awesome magnetic car mount makes that so much easier. Anker's magnetic car mount is a simple way to keep your phone out of your hands but still in view so you can use it for navigation, music streaming and more. The strong magnet allows it to work universally with just about any phone, so it won't matter how often you switch you can use it with any device you have with you that day.

This $20 discount isn't likely to last very long, so you're going to want to pick one up sooner than later. Something like this makes for a great investment for each car you own, so be sure to grab a couple to keep your loved ones safe on the road.

See at Amazon

How to celebrate New Year's in VR

Celebrate the new year from inside VR!

The end of 2016 is upon us, which means parties full of friends, watching the ball drop, and washing your hands of this year in preparation for 2017. If you don't yet have plans for the big night, then don't worry! There are a few awesome ways that you can experience the New Year's party in London, or New York City, all with the aid of your VR headset. Whether you're hoping to enjoy the feel of NYC from the relative comfort of your couch, or you couldn't get tickets to see the fireworks over London, we've got you totally covered.

Read More at VRHeads

Best PlayStation 4 Games

Want to know what to get for your PlayStation 4? Start with these, the best games you can buy!

The PS4 has a ton of great titles available, but we all have a limited amount of time (and money) so we can't just aimlessly pick games. That's why we have a list of fantastic choices for you to check out if you're looking for something new to play on your PlayStation 4.

1. Uncharted 4: A Thief's End

It's impossible to talk PS4 games and not recommend Uncharted as a must buy. A Thief's End is the first outing for infamous adventurer, Nathan Drake, on the current generation console and takes place three years along from the end of Uncharted 3.

Drake has given up the life of old, but gets dragged back into action when his brother come's calling. Uncharted has never looked or played better than it does in a Thief's End and it cements the series' legacy as one of the best you can play on any platform.

See at Amazon

2. The Witcher 3

The Witcher 3 is one of the most acclaimed games ever made, taking place in a huge open-world densely packed with incentives to explore, secrets to uncover and stories to unravel. It's as action-packed as they come, interweaved with a darkly mature plot, choice and consequences, and a virtual world teeming with life.

The game has been continuously updated and refined since its launch, adding new features for free in addition to large expansions that heap value on top of its solid foundation. The Witcher 3 is completely unmissable.

See at Amazon

3. Grand Theft Auto V

The legendary franchise initially missed the launch of the PlayStation 4, instead remaining exclusive to the PS3 and Xbox 360. Eventually that changed and with its arrival on the PS4 came much improved graphics and an optional first-person view that brings a whole new dimension to the GTA world.

What GTA V does best is what it's always done. Thrown a huge open world map onto your console with a lengthy, compelling campaign and an abundance of side missions. And with GTA Online in for good measure, the action never stops.

See at Amazon

4: Overwatch

Blizzard's first FPS game has literally taken the world by storm, and for good reason. There's no single player campaign, which is perhaps all some might be able to criticize it for. But your average shooter this is not.

Overwatch has a big variety in its characters with different abilities and weapons for each one of them. The gameplay is objective based and just getting the most kills is no longer good enough. Throw in a unique look and some terrifically designed maps and Overwatch is one that will have you coming back for much, much more.

See at Amazon

5: Battlefield 1

In a world of futuristic sci-fi shooters, DICE and EA went back in time to World War 1 for the latest Battlefield game. Battlefield 1 is about as far from the likes of Call of Duty as you'll find, and it's all the better for it.

It looks gorgeous, or as gorgeous as the muddy fields of Northern Europe could look, and the campaign is something that just has to be played. It's an emotional rollercoaster packed with historical gunplay, tanks and more besides. The multiplayer is ambitious, and has support for 64 players at once on a gigantic map.

See at Amazon

6: Doom

DOOM is a reboot of the classic series developed by id Software. After many delays, DOOM emerged from the depths of development hell and took everybody by surprise, delivering the possibly greatest shooter campaign of this generation so far.

Unashamedly violent and gory, DOOM riffs on the classic, fast-paced formula, atop some modern flare, a nightmarish art direction, and a fist-poundingly awesome soundtrack. DOOM has a sense of purity often lost in modern shooters.

See at Amazon

7: Rise of the Tomb Raider

PlayStation fans had to wait a whole year to get their hands on Lara Croft's latest adventure and it comes in the form of the 20-year celebration pack that also includes a free PlayStation VR experience to boot. It sees Lara get back to her roots; raiding tombs, heading first to the freezing wilderness of Siberia.

It looks fantastic and feels just like the Tomb Raiders of old, which is in no way a bad thing. Lara may have grown up and got a little darker in places, but Rise of the Tomb Raider is one for fans and newcomers alike.

See at Amazon

8. Fallout 4

Fallout 4 is the latest installment in Bethesda's post-apocalyptic RPG series, and is one of the finest open-world games around. This time Fallout heads to Boston and Vault 111, the hole in the ground from which you emerge in a future destroyed by nuclear weapons.

With its rich RPG systems, improved shooting mechanics, deep settlement construction engine and console-exclusive Xbox One mods, you'll struggle to see everything Fallout 4 has to offer.

See at Amazon

9. Inside

INSIDE is among the most critically acclaimed games of 2016 for its meticulously polished gameplay, ravenously dark plot and fiendish puzzles that are just as likely to warp your mind as the game's shocking ending.

INSIDE is from the creators of LIMBO, and is every bit as haunting. It's not expensive and it's one everyone should experience.

See at PlayStation

10. Journey

That this is a remaster of a PlayStation 3 game makes it no less rewarding to play. If anything it makes it more worthwhile because the game art looks better than ever and the higher frame rates mean its more polished, too.

There is no dialog, no real instruction, but you're in a uniquely stunning world going on a journey. Get it? It's quite short, but intense and emotionally involving. Not to be missed.

See at PlayStation

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If you're looking for the very best games you can find for PlayStation VR, then head on over and visit our buddies at VR Heads who'll walk you through the best games for your headset!

Why is there PlayStation stuff here?

PlayStation on Android Central?!? We use our Android phones to interact with the PlayStation 4 — especially if you have a Sony Xperia phone. We're also talking a lot more about VR, and PlayStation VR is just as big a part of that conversation. It stretches things outside of Android a little, but it's also going to be a lot of fun. Enjoy!

• Gaming with Second Screen apps
• Hands-on with PlayStation VR
• Specs comparison: Playstation VR, Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Gear VR

The best virtual reality apps for meditation

"Om" your way through life with the help of these meditation apps.

There's no hippie mumbo jumbo here. Meditation is often encouraged by medical professionals as a way to decompress when life might be moving too quickly for you to catch up. On a physical level, meditation can be particularly helpful with lowering blood pressure, reducing anxiety attacks, helping insomnia, increasing serotonin production, and simply gaining clarity and peace of mind.

I've personally reaped the benefits of consistent meditation throughout my life. I practice yoga, so meditation is a part of it, but sometimes I don't have the room or the time to get into a physical flow. So what do I do? I pop on a pair of headphones and the Daydream View to get going. I've found this method to be particularly effective in helping me drown out the noise around me, whether that's my inner voice crowding around everything else I'm worrying about, or the cat yowling for a bowl of food. Virtual reality has helped me efficiently reach that state of "nothingness." Here are some of the apps that I've found to be particularly effective in aiding my own meditative practice.

Read more at VR Heads!

Android Central Offers is giving away a Pixel XL, and it could be yours!

Update: This is your last chance to enter! One lucky reader will score themselves a brand new Google Pixel XL, and it could be you!

Looking to get your hands on a Google Pixel XL but don't have the money available to purchase one for yourself right now? Well, Android Central Offers is hooking up one lucky person with a Pixel XL, and it could be you. All you have to do is sign up for the offer, which is completely free, to be entered for a chance to win it.

Sounds simple, right? That's because it is, and there is very little reason you shouldn't click through and enter for your chance now. The only way to know you won't win is not to enter, so don't do that to yourself.

See at Android Central Offers

How to fix push notifications in MIUI 8

Not getting push notifications in MIUI 8? Here's how to fix it.

MIUI 8 offers a ton of new features, including a power-saving mode that automatically extends battery life by killing background apps, adjusting system apps' performance, and limiting apps that drain the battery.

However, one of MIUI's most common bugs — one that affects push notifications — is still prevalent in the latest version of the operating system, and it seems to inexplicably affect a few Xiaomi handsets. I had the issue earlier this year on the MIUI 7-based Redmi Note 3 wherein the phone never displayed Gmail or WhatsApp notifications, although enabling priority notifications for both apps fixed the issue. At the same time, the Mi 5 delivered push notifications without me having to tweak any settings.

At least in the case of MIUI 8, the issue seems to be tied to the OS' aggressive battery management, which kills background apps and sync services when your phone is idling. To negate it, you'll have to prioritize notifications and enable autostart for apps that aren't showing notifications.

The problem isn't as exacerbated as before, but if you're unable to receive push notifications on your Xiaomi phone, there are a few things that you can do. Here's how to fix push notifications in MIUI 8.

Prioritize notifications

1. Open Settings from the home screen.
2. Navigate to Notifications & status bar.

3. Select App notifications.

   

4. Select the app you want to prioritize.
5. Ensure Floating notifications, Lock screen notifications, and App icon badge are enabled.

6. Toggle Priority.

   

Prioritizing an app should fix issues with push notifications. If you're still not seeing alerts for incoming messages, you should enable autostart.

Enable autostart

1. Open Settings from the home screen.
2. Navigate to Permissions.
3. Tap Autostart.

4. Select the apps you want to start automatically.

   

Turning on autostart ensures that the app isn't affected by the operating system's battery management. If you don't see a specific app listed in the menu (I cannot autostart Gmail), then try disabling battery saver.

Disable battery saver mode

1. Open Settings from the home screen.
2. Select Battery & performance.
3. Tap Manage apps battery usage.

4. In Power saving modes, select Off.

   

Disabling battery saver mode allows apps to continue running unrestricted in the background. Doing so didn't affect the battery life on the three phones I'm currently using — the Redmi Note 3, Mi 5s, and the Mi Note 2. If none of the methods listed above work, you should consider re-installing the global MIUI ROM afresh.

Were you able to get push notifications fixed in MIUI 8? Let us know in the comments below.

OnePlus 3T Nougat beta now available as company misses stable update deadline

First OxygenOS 4.0 beta for OnePlus 3T suggests manufacturer will fail to deliver promised stable update by year's end.

OnePlus has apparently fumbled its promise of a stable Android 7.0 Nougat release for the OnePlus 3 and 3T by the end of 2016, with today's announcement on its forums of the first OxygenOS 4.0 (Android 7.0) beta build for the OnePlus 3T. The release puts the 3T in line with the OnePlus 3, which has been receiving beta builds since late November, the most recent one just a few days ago.

On November 30, a OnePlus spokesperson told AC: (Emphasis ours)

We will continue to update [the OnePlus 3 and 3T] separately until we bring Android Nougat to the OnePlus 3T and OnePlus 3 by the end of the year. After the Nougat update, both these devices will be on the same update schedule.

Similar announcements were made elsewhere, and most of us took this to mean a stable, not beta release would land by the end of the year on both phones.

Indeed, the OnePlus 3T was originally supposed to go straight from OxygenOS 3.5 (on Marshmallow) to 4.0 (on Nougat) without being involved in the beta process at all. Thus today's beta release suggests things aren't going exactly as planned, and that more time is needed. There's no word on the OnePlus 3's prospects of a Nougat stable OTA by the end of the day, but the fact that the most recent beta build dropped just a couple days back casts doubt on this.

Today's development is disappointing for OnePlus 3 and 3T owners hoping for an official update in time for the new year — as is the radio silence from OnePlus's official channels on the end-of-year deadline. In the meantime, a beta release for eager upgraders is better than nothing.

We've reached out to OnePlus for clarification on the status of stable Nougat updates for its phones, and will update this post with its response.

More: First look at Nougat on the OnePlus 3 + 3T

Android Nougat

• Android 7.0 Nougat: Everything you need to know
• Will my phone get Android Nougat?
• Google Pixel + Pixel XL review
• All Android Nougat news
• How to manually update your Nexus or Pixel
• Join the Discussion

OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T

• OnePlus 3 review: Finally, all grown up
• The OnePlus 3T is official
• OnePlus 3 specs
• OnePlus 3T vs. OnePlus 3: What's the difference?
• Latest OnePlus 3 news
• Discuss OnePlus 3 in the forums

OnePlus

Apple's AirPods may be the best Bluetooth earbuds for Android

Can you use the AirPods with an Android phone?

I picked up a pair of AirPods last week, and have been using them with my iPhone, Mac= and other Apple devices. The experience is fantastic — seamless, even — and the sound isn't half bad, either. When you first open the dental floss-like lid and place an iPhone nearby, the two gadgets talk to one another, and a little window pops up on the iPhone's screen to begin pairing.

But, not being an active iPhone user, the experience was short-lived. I turned to my LG V20 and asked, "Are you willing to behave the same way?" I placed the AirPods nearby, opened the dental floss lid, and nada. (Strain your credulity for just a moment, please.) But unlike the vast majority of Apple's Lightning-specific accessories, the AirPods use a common standard, Bluetooth, to actually pair with devices and play music on them. So, knowing that this was a possibility on Android, I set out to test the universality of Apple's latest sales phenom.

The pairing process

AirPods pair to an Android phone like any other Bluetooth device: relatively clumsily, and through the settings. Opening the lid and holding down on the earbud case's single button, the system is placed into pairing mode when the LED turns white. It should then show up in the phone's Bluetooth menu.

I did this reliably — more so than with most other Bluetooth headphones — a dozen or so times with various Android products, from phones to tablets, and the AirPods were found and connected quickly every time. It's unclear how much juice Apple's W1 chip gives to non-iDevices, but if nothing else it seems to be pointing things in the right direction.

Using them

Say what you will about the AirPods' design, but you really shouldn't dismiss them until you have them in your ears, jamming away untethered while you walk around the house or run errands. I've had the displeasure of using Bluetooth headphones that had one or more damning flaws, from discomfort to poor battery life, and the only thing I'd say about the AirPods is that they look a little funny, and take some time getting used to.

Once paired to any Android phone the experience was superb.

But once paired to any Android phone — I mainly used them with the LG V20 and Google Pixel — the experience was superb. Pairing, as said, was reliable, and I have yet to experience a lost connection. Even better, I've found them to be far more trustworthy over long distances than most other Bluetooth headphones; I've climbed stairs, closed doors, and even gone outside, all with my phone sitting two or more dozen feet away with no skips. Your mileage may vary, but these are the most problem-free Bluetooth headphones I've used to date, and if Apple's name wasn't on the box it would be a must-buy for many Android users.

The accelerometer in each of the AirPods also works as a gesture tool on Android. When paired with the iPhone, a double-tap on the side of either earbud activates Siri; on Android, the gesture functions as a play/pause button which, I'd argue, is far more useful. And it works, every time. (Not unlike how the Samsung Gear IconX earbuds work, in fact.)

The AirPods' case provides around 24-hours of additional battery life to the five hours inside the AirPods themselves. And though it may seem annoying having to carry around a second thing to keep the earbuds going, in practice it means they last longer, and are more easily charged, than any Micro-USB-based Bluetooth headphones I've owned to date. That you can pop them into the case for 10 minutes and gain an extra couple of hours of uptime is an added bonus. And while the case itself charges using Lightning, if you have an iPhone or iPad in your house, you can easily charge these, and there's an extra cable in the box. All you need is a USB-A port.

Sound quality

Here's where things get a bit muddy, for lack of a better pun. AirPods sound a lot like EarPods, Apple's in-the-box wired headphones. And while there's a bit more oomph to the bass line and a slightly more even sound at the high-end, this is by no means an audiophile experience. That Apple discourages the use of seal-tightening ear tips makes it even harder to find an ideal placement, and while I have been lucky enough to find a position where the AirPods fit nicely and sound full, other people may not be as lucky.

Is this $160 sound? Definitely not. At best, it's $100 sound. But that doesn't mean it's not worth buying.

Should you buy AirPods with an Android phone?

Yes, you pay an Apple tax, and I too balked at the $159 price, but even as an Android user I feel comfortable recommending them.

There are plenty of great Android-compatible Bluetooth headphones that are both cheaper and sound better than the Apple AirPods. But there are none that I want to walk around in my ears with as consistently, and that leads to me listening to more music for longer. Unlike other in-ear Bluetooth earphones, AirPods are comfortable enough for me to wear for hours with no discomfort, and sound good enough that I'm happy to do so. They're great for phone calls, too, and I've yet to receive complaints about sound quality from people on the other end of the line.

Yes, you pay an Apple tax, and I too balked at the $159 price, but even as an Android user I feel comfortable recommending them. AirPods are even more useful if you use a Mac, since the included W1 chip — the thing that makes it super easy to pair with an iPhone — also works with Apple's laptops, so it's easy to switch between phone and computer in a snap, if necessary.

I don't imagine I'll have much luck convincing the hardcore Android stalwart to buy a pair of AirPods — the product exudes "Appleness" in every atom — but Apple did so many things right with this product that I have to try.

See at Apple

What I learned from watching my family try virtual reality

The holidays are a great excuse to use your family as guinea pigs for new technology.

This year, I put my family and friends in the virtual reality hot seat with Google's Daydream View. I loaded up my really blue Pixel XL (I'm obligated to remind you of that in every mention) with apps like Hello Mars, Evil Robot Traffic Jam, and the BBC's The Turning Forest. I didn't see my phone for about six hours, but I did make sure to take a few moments to study everyone's reactions.

Kids are always first

Almost every parent at our holiday family gathering asked if their kid could have a go at the Daydream View. I obliged, of course, and made sure that everyone had the safety talk and the basics down before leaving them alone with the headset. This is exactly why I never had access to my phone — the kids were crazy about virtual reality and wouldn't give it up!

Kids don't care about hardware limitations.

The kids didn't seem to mind the hardware limitations, either. At one point in the evening, the Pixel kept crashing during Hello Mars. I had a suspicion it had to do with the fact that the phone was scalding because of prolonged use, so I put it aside in a cool, dry place for a while. The kids could barely stand it, though; as soon as I turned my back, the phone was back in the Daydream View headset, doing its thing.

I also noticed that the View's remote helps exponentially at keeping a person engaged. Virtual reality is more immersive if you can interact with it, and that coupled with a pair of headphones is certainly why the kids were so into it— much longer than recommended. It also kept them occupied enough so that the parents could enjoy a glass of wine on Christmas Day.

Socializing is a bigger priority

Yes, this is a total "no duh," but I think it's worth remembering if you're planning to bring all of your Cool New Tech to the next major gathering. It's not that VR is devoid of interactivity, but when people who are close haven't seen one another in some time, the last thing they're itching to do is pop into another reality.

As VR devices become more commonplace, it's likely they'll become a part of the party.

I want to give credit to those at my family's Christmas gathering who took the plunge to check out what Daydream was about. However, I don't fault those who weren't interested, either: virtual reality still carries the stigma of being a solitary experience, so why would anyone be interested in jumping into that at a social event? Virtual reality makers, like Google, are aware of this preexisting notion and are working on fostering positive social experiences for the platform. As VR devices become more commonplace and more households adopt the technology, it's likely that it'll become a part of the party, but until we get there, it's still just a one-person experience.

Makeup is hard to wear in virtual reality

It's hard to don Daydream View with a fully made-up face — that was the biggest complaint from the ladies who emerged from the virtual world with a fresh "virtual reality" face. I'm still figuring out how to lessen the impact of having a thing strapped to your face and I promise that when I do, I'll share the good news.

Did you show off virtual reality to the family this holiday? What were their reactions like? Tell us in the comments!

What's in Andrew's 2017 gear bag?

Each tradeshow marks a revision in the status of our gear bags. Here's what mine looks like early in 2017.

The editors here at Android Central get a lot of work done on the road, and that means we're always looking to have the best gear available in our bags so we can bring all of the best coverage to folks back at home. When we're getting ready to gear up for a big show like CES, it's a perfect time to double check the setup and get everything in order before we fly out.

Here's what I'll be carrying to Las Vegas this year, and for the most part it's what comes with me any time I leave the house and need to get work done while I'm out.

The bag: Timbuk2 Classic Messenger

I picked up my Timbuk2 Classic Messenger (size large) nearly two years ago, and I've been very happy with it as both a daily carry bag and for travel needs. The handful of pockets inside make it easy to find a place for my essential gear, while the separate laptop compartment keeps my computer safe and I can use the rest of this cavernous bag for anything else I need.

The bag can go anywhere and take a beating.

Most days I have the external straps tightened down, which collapses the bag for a slimmer profile since I don't have much to carry. But you can also loosen those straps out and fit a weekend's worth of clothing and gear or a full set of camera equipment for a day of shooting. The versatility of the big open bag is great, even if I'm carrying the same things most of the time.

Oh, and you just can't beat Timbuk2's warranty, particularly if you have a store where you live. You'll never have to worry about being caught without a bag or being charged for replacements if manufacturing-related issues arise.

See at Amazon

Also inside: Timbuk2 Snoop Camera Insert

Because I use this bag for photography gear on a regular basis, I also invested in a "Snoop" camera insert; and I went for a medium size for my large bag so that I have extra room for non-camera gear.

This is a fully-contained zip-closed camera container with two movable dividers and a soft cloth interior that can easily hold my camera, two extra lenses, cables, batteries, and usually for me a couple more phones. It has a handle on it so you can quickly yank it out of your bag, and because it's self-contained it means I can quickly turn my messenger back into a standard carry-all bag in a snap.

See at Amazon

And finally: Peak Design Capture Camera Clip

The Peak Design Capture Camera Clips came as a recommendation from several people, and I just don't carry a camera without it anymore. It's a simple and secure way to mount your camera on a bag strap or belt, letting you quickly remove the camera for shooting and then clip it back on the bag until you need it.

No more camera swinging around your neck from a strap, and no more stashing it in your bag where it's hard to reach. This thing is absolutely crucial for trade shows, but I've started to use it when I'm traveling for vacation as well.

See at Amazon

The laptop: MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (13-inch)

When Apple refreshed its laptop lineup in the Fall of 2016, it was finally time for me to let my 2012 MacBook Air go and move to the new model.

There have been plenty of complaints about what's wrong with the new MacBook Pros — many of which I agree with. Yes I miss MagSafe. Yes the lack of USB-A ports is annoying. Yes it's expensive. Yes the battery life can be a little finicky. But that being said, I'm still overall happy with the laptop.

It isn't the laptop for every power user, but it's great for me so far.

The screen is absolutely gorgeous, the power on tap here (I have a 3.1GHz Core i5 and 16GB of RAM) is immense, Touch ID is a great addition and it's actually a smaller overall package than my four-year-old MacBook Air. After just a couple weeks I'm already in love with using USB-C to charge from any of my myriad wall chargers and battery packs. I've already gotten used to typing on this extra-shallow keyboard, and the non-clicking trackpad just isn't an issue.

Is the new MacBook Pro a dream machine for every professional and power user out there? Hardly. But it's more machine than I need (even without maxing out the specs or getting a 15-inch model) in terms of internal hardware, and fits my needs very well as someone that most of the time relies on a laptop as my primary machine and travels upwards of 100,000 miles a year.

See at Amazon

The phone: Google Pixel XL

For the first few weeks after the launch of the new Pixels I regularly bounced between the standard model and the XL depending on how I was feeling, but for travel there XL is really the only option here. The bigger screen and extra battery are crucial for long days with lots of screen-on time and bad wireless signal.

The camera on the Pixel XL is still proving to be fantastic, and Google's software is still stable and quick even a couple months on. (You may also notice my Places Live Case ... it's working a bit better than before, so I'm keeping it around for the time being.)

See at Google Store

The carrier: Project Fi

My move back to using the Pixel and Pixel XL has let me get back to an extended period of using my preferred carrier, Project Fi. Sure it's a little on the spendy side in terms of raw price-per-gigabyte, but I love the consistency of the service and the extra flexibility afforded by its use of three different networks and Wi-Fi for calling.

You can't beat the simplicity and billing transparency of Project Fi.

The transparency of Project Fi in how it bills you and refunds for unused data is fantastic, letting me seamlessly use a large amount of data one month and then go back to using less than 2GB the next with no fear about changing plans or managing data buckets. My average Fi bill was $48 per month over the past 10 months, and that included a $160 monthly bill coinciding with my trip to Berlin for the IFA trade show (so. much. tethering.).

And as I regularly travel internationally I really appreciate how things stay exactly the same when I'm abroad. It's a real shame that Project Fi is limited to just Pixels and Nexuses, but when I'm using my Pixel there's no other carrier I'd prefer to use.

The other phone: Galaxy S7

The Galaxy S7 is always a great backup device for me, and at times I pick it up as a primary as well. Despite being more compact than the Pixel XL it has really solid battery life, and of course has a great screen and wonderful camera. Lately I've been using it running the Android 7.0 beta from Samsung, which has proven to be surprisingly stable.

See at Amazon

The carrier: T-Mobile

I've had a personal T-Mobile line for several years now, and it's the SIM that lands in my secondary phone when I'm using Project Fi on my Nexus (now Pixel) over the past couple of years. Though T-Mobile is hardly the scrappy underdog anymore, I still appreciate the service and simplicity I get from the carrier on my Simple Choice North America plan — which means I can go to Canada and Mexico and use my phone just like I do at home.

I'm not sure I'd feel the same if I had to pay considerably more per month on one of its new "T-Mobile ONE" plans, particularly considering I'd have to get the high-speed tethering data add-on, but right now I'm still happy with my T-Mobile line.

The camera: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk II

This is now my third successive Olympus Micro Four Thirds camera, and the OM-D E-M5 really shows the best of what this format of camera can offer. Just like my E-PL1 and E-PL5 before, the E-M5 Mk II gives me fantastic images from a really compact camera. Interchangeable lenses are great, the addition of a viewfinder is welcomed and the extra dedicated buttons and knobs compared to the lower-end model are useful.

Perhaps the nicest thing about these cameras is just how "point and shoot" they can be if you don't have a need for tweaking extra settings. In "Auto" mode with a prime lens it's tough to take a bad shot with the OM-D E-M5 Mk II, and that's super useful when you're in a tradeshow setting crowded in a group of people in bad lighting. I never feel like I need to manage my camera.

See at Amazon

And lenses

While the OM-D E-M5 Mk II is a great camera with its 14-42 mm kit lens, it turns into an entirely different experience with a good prime lens on it. Olympus' own 25 mm f/1.8 lens (a 50 mm equivalent for a full-frame sensor) is my go-to lens and it's absolutely fantastic. It's extremely fast and bright, meaning you can go into point-and-shoot mode and never miss a shot, even in bad lighting. Whereas you have to work a bit with the kit lens, you don't even have to think about it with this prime.

See at Amazon

Micro Four Thirds lenses tend to be dramatically less expensive than their counterparts from the likes of Sony, Canon and Nikon, which is really great. I often carry a 14-150mm for longer shots and a 12mm f/2.0 (okay, $599 is a bit steep, but it's fantastic) for some video shooting as well.

Other gear and accessories

I wear in-ear headphones as I travel to and from airports, but when I step on a plane I need to have noise-cancelling technology to block out the world around me. I'm still using the AKG N60nc noise-cancelling on-ear headphones , and they've served me well on flights of all lengths. Because the arms articulate a lot they're comfortable on my ears even though they're an "on-ear" rather than generally more comfortable "over-ear" design, even on long flights. The noise cancellation is good, the battery life is great and I like that they charge up over USB rather than having a replaceable battery. They don't offer Bluetooth — and for that reason I'm constantly tempted by the Bose QC35's — but they're compact and continue to serve me well.

Flat tangle-free cables are the only way to go.

Since I'm carrying a USB-C phone and Micro-USB phone, I'm doubling up on cables. My messenger bag now always has a three-foot USB-C cable and a three-foot Micro-USB cable — I'm using tangle-free cables from Ventev in this case, which let me have two different colors so I can quickly differentiate between them. I've also been carrying around a OnePlus USB-C cable, which is rigid, nicely winds up and stays in place with a little strap.

No matter how long I'm traveling for I bring the same wall charger: an Anker two-port unit that offers Quick Charge 3.0 tech on one port and up to 5V/2.4A on the other. It's just small enough (with a foldable plug) that it's not a burden to carry around in my bag every day, and the extra power output — a total of 31.5W — with the flexibility of two USB-A ports is necessary for me. This is a great charger to power up everything I travel with.

A battery this small means I can always carry it with me.

Anker also makes my current favorite daily carry battery pack, the 10,000 mAh Power Core Speed 2. When it comes to mobile battery packs I just want the most capacity in the smallest package, and this one is just impressively tiny considering its 10,000 mAh battery. It's smaller than some of my old 5000 mAh batteries, and even though it only offers one USB output that's considering how easy it is to have on me all of the time. My only wish is that I could get one that charges over USB-C (which would then also offer two outputs at the same time) — perhaps Anker will update it soon.

We're often doing video voiceovers and podcasts while we're on the road, and for that reason I always carry my handy Samson Go Mic. This little USB-powered microphone is really small and has sound that'll blow away any laptop microphone or lapel mic, making it a perfect companion for the road.

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So that's what inside my bag when I travel. Have any comments or thoughts on what you carry and how it differs? Shout out in the comments!

Best Clear Cases for Google Pixel

What is the best clear case for the Google Pixel? There are a bunch, so let's take a look at some of them!

Want to show off your new Google Pixel but worried about it getting scratched up during daily use? A clear case is a great way to be able to let everyone see your shiny new phone, but most of the time they won't add a ton of protection to the phone. Some of them can add some extra grip, others are made from scratch-resistant materials, and most of them are pretty flexible and made to last for a long time.

There are a bunch of options available when it comes to clear cases for the Google Pixel, and here are some of the best.

Spigen Liquid Crystal

Spigen is known for its great, yet extremely affordable, cases for various phones. That holds true with its offerings for the Google Pixel as well, and the liquid crystal clear case is definitely one of the best options out there. It offers a minimal design and great fit, so you will hardly even know it is there. It also has a beveled opening at the fingerprint sensor for easy access, and it is extremely easy to put on and remove.

The clear TPU will keep your phone scratch-free, and looking great. At just over $10, it is really hard to go wrong with using one of these.

See at Amazon

Sparin 2 Pack

Sparin does things a bit different with most of its cases and actually includes two cases with each order, so if the first one ends up getting dingy you can swap a brand new one on. The cases are made from a scratch resistant TPU material that won't add a bunch of bulk to the phone but still adds a thin layer of protection.

It offers protection to the back and four sides with its air cushioned corners to help it during a fall. You can grab the two-pack for around $6 at Amazon, which is an absolute steal.

See at Amazon

Tauri Ultra Slim

Tauri's ultra slim case for the Google Pixel is a bit more of what you would expect from a clear case than the others. It offers a very thin layer of protection to the phone, and will protect from scratches and dings, but won't likely provide any additional protection during a fall. Being super thin, odds are that you won't even realize the case is on your phone though, which is great. It is made from scratch resistant materials and has a textured interior to prevent air bubbles.

You'll have precision cutouts to allow for easy access to the buttons, ports and fingerprint sensor on your Pixel. Coming it at just under $10, this is a great option if you just want something very thin.

See at Amazon

LK Ultra

LK makes one of the slimmest options for the Google Pixel, so if you want something you will hardly notice this is the one. Being made from a high-quality TPU material, the case will also scratch resistant, shatterproof and should help in the event of a fall. With its anti-slip design this case also makes holding your Google Pixel a bit easier, and the front has raised edges so that when you put it face down the screen won't touch the surface.

Its unique design allows for easy access to all the buttons and ports without interfering with the use, and the camera lens cutout protections it from scratches and lets your flash work properly. You can pick one up for just under $10 at Amazon and it is set to begin shipping on October 17.

See at Amazon

DGlte TPU Gel

If you are looking for a clear case that adds a bit more protection than some of the others, DGlte's TPU Gel case is the way to go. The additional protection on the corners of the phone will help provide additional protection in the event of a fall. It provides great protection thanks to being made from materials that are high quality, and it has precision cutouts for your ports, the camera and more.

It has a soft and comfortable touch to it, which helps make holding the phone even more comfortable. This is a great way to protect your phone while still showing it off, and you can pick one up for just $8 now.

See at Amazon

Pleson Ultra Thin

Pleson has been making phone cases for ages, and it offers some great options when it comes to thin and clear ones. The ultra-thin transparent TPU material is flexible yet protective. With its precision cutouts, it is super easy to put on and take off, so you can swap it out with something that adds more protection if you need it at any time. The case has raised edges on the front so if you place the phone face down the screen will be raised off the surface and it won't scratch.

The TPU material will stay fingerprint-free and you won't see any bubbles on the back glass thanks to a dotted pattern on the inside of the case. At under $10, this is a great option that provides protection and keeps the bulk to a minimum.

See at Amazon

Your favorite?

Do you have a favorite not listed here? Be sure to drop a link with a brief description as to why you prefer it!

Google Pixel + Pixel XL

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T-Mobile touts its network size, strength headed into 2017

Going extra magenta in the new year.

T-Mobile is ending the year the way it started it: pumping up its own network and not-to-subtly throwing shade on the others. Under all the bluster, there are a few things to take away.

For all the 5G hype going on — from mobile networks and manufacturers alike — we're still a long way off from any kind of significant 5G roll-out. T-Mobile accepts this, but is committing itself to being ready for 5G so that it can roll it out faster and better than the competition.

Well, gigabit LTE sounds great.

As far as current network technology goes, T-Mobile is still the only network with the technology to reach 1Gbps on its current LTE, though it did do it on an "un-released handset." It's a promising test, but it remains to be seen just how well this gigabit LTE will hold up, especially once it's more than one test unit connecting to it.

One more note worth mentioning refers to T-Mobile now covering 313 million people (not to be confused with actually serving that many people), just barely being edged out by Verizon. You might not think a single million separating them is much, but once you translate that million into the rural areas they live in, that 1 million turns into a few good chunks on a map. Chunks not a lot of people live in, but important nonetheless.

Best board games for Android

What are the best board games for Android?

Board games have been experiencing a renaissance in recent years, and it doesn't take a lot of digging in the Google Play Store to see it reflected on Android as well. If you're having trouble getting everybody together under one roof or just don't have any more shelf space for another box, pick up your Android phone or tablet to grab these fantastic board games.

We've put together the very best board games for Android for the consideration of long-time board game fans.It's worth noting in advance that a vast majority of the Android board games on our list employ in-app purchases for expansions, and thanks to their established physical counterparts, they tend to be well-balanced and lots of fun.

• Pandemic: The Board Game
• Ticket to Ride
• Catan
• Ascension
• Carcassonne
• Shelter Free
• Sea Battle 2
• Mahjong: Beautiful Orient

Pandemic: The Board Game

This mobile version of the popular strategic board game of the same name that provides a real challenge whether you're playing alone or with friends. Your goal: Try to cure four contagious diseases from spreading and taking over the world.

You select your characters at the start of the game, with each character performing specific roles to help eradicate the diseases. Which characters you pick will have a big effect on your team's ultimate success. This is a pass-and-play game to play with friends, and you'll all have to work together and use your teams strategically if you want to win. There's an in-app purchase available for expansions, which improves the replayability of this addictive and challenging game.

Pandemic is regularly priced at $6.99, but is currently on sale for 70% off, so it's the perfect time to get it!

• Number of players: 2-4, or solo if you play more than one role
• Options to play: Solo, pass-and-play

Download: Pandemic: The Board Game ($1.99)

Ticket to Ride

Ticket to Ride gets players to build sprawling rail empires by gathering colored cars to connect cities. Every turn, a player gets to either pick two cars, claim a line by spending cars, or take on a new ticket, which challenges players to connect two cities before the first player runs out of cars. The farther these two cities are, the more victory points they're worth, plus the player with the longest line gets an additional victory point bonus.

On the whole, Ticket to Ride is a fine combination of competition and construction. The in-app purchase grants you access to a new bundle of maps and boards, all of which are totally worth the price.

• Number of players: 1-5
• Options to play: Solo, Pass-and-play, local multiplayer, online multiplayer

Download Ticket to Ride ($6.99 with in-app purchases)

Catan

Catan is not just a classic board game; it is the classic board game. Players harvest resources and connect their villages by roads, accumulating victory points along the way. It doesn't sound like much, but between the inter-player trading (or scheming) and the cramped real estate, Catan can be a very tense game. Players also use their harvested resources to purchase cards which can provide them with useful resources. Pass-and-play multiplayer is available, as well as many of the original game's expansions.

For a tense game of wheeling and dealing, check out Catan.

• Number of players: 1-5
• Options to play: Solo, pass-and-play, online multiplayer

Download Catan ($3.99)

Ascension

Ascension is a well-established fantasy card game. Players dynamically build their deck over the course of gameplay, and attempt to acquire the most victory points from a limited pool. When the pool is empty, the points are tallied up. Gathering these honor points is done by building a force with sword and sorcery, acquiring constructs, slaying a constantly-shifting selection of monsters on the board, and recruiting new heroes to your cause. There are expansions and promo packs which introduce new cards to the set as well.

Ascension's fast and fluid gameplay are bound to catch the attention of even occasional board gamers.

• Number of players: 1-4
• Options to play: Solo, online multiplayer

Download Ascension(Free with in-app purchases)

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a tile-based kingdom-building game in which players each take turns trying to complete roads, cities, and cloisters. Each turn, players also drop a limited number of their meeple onto those landmarks in an attempt to claim points once the feature has been completed. If you can't fully enclose a city or finish a road by the end of the game, you can still get a few points. A handful of expansions are also available through in-app purchases.

Carcassonne is a polished adaptation of a classic board game. If you haven't tried it yet, now is the time.

• Number of players: 1-6
• Options to play: Solo, local multiplayer, online multiplayer

Download Carcassonne ($4.99)

Shelter Free

Shelter Free combines deck building card games and castle defence strategy. You wake up to find that the world is overrun with zombies and you have to continuously fight them off in order to make your way out of the danger zone. You move through hazards, seeking cards to build and strengthen your deck, and duelling with zombies who have equally powerful card decks.

The graphic novel artwork style is enough to keep you coming back for more gameplay, but the storyline and intense card battles will keep you hooked for sure.

• Number of players: 1
• Options to play: Solo

Download Shelter Free (Free with in-app purchases)

Sea Battle 2

Don't let anyone sink your battleship! This reimagining of the classic game lets you play against an AI, a random online opponent, or the person sitting next to you. It goes beyond mere battleships to include planes, radar, mines, submarines, and all the while you're climbing the ranks from a lowly recruit to an admired admiral. Name your proud fleet, watch your scores on the global leaderboard, and use the in-app chat feature to discuss strategy.

The old-school graph paper design will take you right back to playing sneaky Battleship rounds during junior high study hall.

• Number of players: 1-2
• Options to play: Solo, pass-and-play, local multiplayer over Bluetooth, online multiplayer

Download Sea Battle 2 (Free with in-app purchases)

Mahjong: Beautiful Orient

The 20 boards of Mahjong: Beautiful Orient feature beautiful backgrounds and a lovely soundtrack to listen to while you master Mahjong. The premise of the game is simple enough: match two tiles to remove them from the board. The boards increase in complexity as you advance, and you need to attain a preset minimum score to move on (not so simple now). Speed, accuracy, and a sharp eye are your must-have Mahjong tools.

If you love board games but you'd just rather play solo, Mahjong: Beautiful Orient is the game for you.

• Number of players: 1
• Options to play: Solo

Download Mahjong Beautiful Orient (Free with in-app purchases)

Your favorite Android board games?

Those are our picks, but there's a lot of great games in the Google Play Store. Leave a comment with your favorite board game or board adaptations for Android!

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