Ray tracing and variable rate shading are coming to mobile devices — starting with Samsung phones.
What you need to know
AMD announced that it will bring its RDNA2 tech to the mobile segment for the first time.
The tech will debut later in the year on Samsung's upcoming Exynos platform.
AMD says it will deliver ray tracing and variable rate shading on phones.
At Computex 2021, AMD CEO Lisa Su announced key details for its RDNA2 architecture. The graphics architecture forms the basis for AMD's RX 6000 GPUs and powers the latest gaming consoles — both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X feature RDNA2 chips — and AMD is now bringing the platform to new form factors.
AMD has announced that RDNA2 tech will be integrated into Tesla's Model X and Model S. Tesla's cars have an embedded Ryzen chipset already, and they will be getting a discrete RDNA2 GPU that unlocks AAA gaming — in your car. Su notes that the RDNA2 chip coming to Teslas will deliver up to 10TFLOPs of compute, which is on par with the 10.28TFLOPs on offer with the PS5.
But what's particularly interesting is where AMD's RDNA2 tech is heading next: "high performance mobile devices." AMD has announced that it will bring RDNA2 to Samsung's upcoming flagship Exynos platform, delivering ray tracing and variable rate shading to the best Android phones.
As a refresher, Samsung partnered with AMD back in 2019, with both manufacturers working together to integrate AMD's IP into a mobile form factor. We'll now see the fruits of that labor later this year; Samsung clearly stated that its upcoming Exynos flagship chipset will feature an AMD GPU, and it is exciting to see that it will be based on RDNA2.
So what makes RDNA2 so interesting? AMD overhauled its graphics architecture to deliver huge efficiency gains, a new on-chip Infinity Cache that enables high bandwidth use cases while minimizing power draw, and exciting new features like ray tracing and variable rate shading. Basically, RDNA2 is scalable, offers a massive increase in performance, and does all of this while being efficient.
It is this efficiency that will be key as AMD and Samsung integrate RDNA2 into mobile devices; phones are thermally constrained by design, so it will be interesting to see how the architecture holds up in this form factor. Samsung's Exynos designs haven't fared well against their Qualcomm counterparts in recent years, and while Samsung made decent strides with the Exynos 2100 this year, the Snapdragon 888 still has the overall edge — particularly at gaming. But with RDNA2, that dynamic could change in favor of Samsung.
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Android 11 is coming to more and more phones every day.
The stable version of Android 11 was released a few months ago, and while it isn't the most revolutionary update we've ever seen, there are plenty of reasons to get excited about it. Whether you're looking forward to the new conversation notifications, chat bubbles for messaging apps, or the upgraded permission handling, it may be a while before you can actually start messing around with all of these software goodies.
The update is available for the Pixels and select OnePlus phones, while the Galaxy S20 and Note 20 lineups have also received their One UI 3.0 update, which is based on Android 11. We've rounded up all of the current info to help give you a better idea of when Android 11 will arrive on your device.
The timelines change based on manufacturer and region, but the list below should give you a broad overview of when to expect the Android 11 update on your phone.
The phrase "fast Android updates" is usually an oxymoron, but Google's lineup of Pixel phones is the exception to that rule. Whenever a new update or security patch is released, Pixels are the first in line for that software, making this one of the biggest benefits of owning a Pixel.
The Android 11 stable update is now available to download on all Pixels starting with the Pixel 2 series. Here's the full list:
Pixel 2
Pixel 2 XL
Pixel 3
Pixel 3 XL
Pixel 3a
Pixel 3a XL
Pixel 4
Pixel 4 XL
Pixel 4a
Pixel 4a 5G
Pixel 5
When will my Samsung phone get Android 11?
Samsung used to be one of those manufacturers that you couldn't rely on for good software support. But within the last year, it's improved significantly. Samsung announced that it's now committed to three years of major OS updates for all of its flagship phones, starting with the Galaxy S10 series.
The company has been on a tear lately, releasing the final version of One UI 3.0 (based on Android 11) to the likes of the Galaxy S20, Note 20, and even the Galaxy Z Flip 5G. A few other devices are seeing the update as well, which weren't expected as soon as they arrived.
We can look forward to all of the following phones to get an Android 11 update:
Galaxy S10
Galaxy S10+
Galaxy S10e
Galaxy S10 Lite
Galaxy S20
Galaxy S20+
Galaxy S20 Ultra
Galaxy S20 FE
Galaxy S21
Galaxy S21+
Galaxy S21 Ultra
Galaxy Note 10 Lite
Galaxy Note 10
Galaxy Note 10+
Galaxy Note 20
Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
Galaxy Fold
Galaxy Z Fold 2
Galaxy Z Flip 5G
Galaxy A52 / A52 5G
Galaxy A72 / A72 5G
Galaxy A32 5G
Galaxy A71
Galaxy A51
Galaxy M21
Galaxy M31 / M31s
Galaxy M42
Galaxy A12
Galaxy A02s
The Galaxy S9 series should run Android 11, but Samsung revealed its roadmap for which devices would see the update. Sadly, the S9 was not on the list. However, the company did commit to bringing security updates to these devices for at least the next year.
As for the speed at which Samsung will roll out Android 11 to its phones, we're anticipating the update to drop within a few months of the initial launch. Google introduced Android 10 on September 3, 2019. The Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S9 got the update in December and January. Samsung has followed the same trajectory with Android 11 for its enormous smartphone lineup, with many devices being updated in late December 2020 or throughout January and into February 2021.
When will my OnePlus phone get Android 11?
What started as a small enthusiast brand transformed into a mainstream player in the U.S. smartphone space. OnePlus kicks out some of the best Android phones, and thankfully, it's quite good for updating them to new software builds.
OnePlus is rolling out the Android 11 stable update to the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro. There's a new visual layout in OxygenOS 11, along with a host of exciting features.
Despite seeing a few issues with the official OxygenOS 11 rollout for the OnePlus Nord, it seems that everything is back on track. But it also seems that the OnePlus 7 and 7T owners are running into issues with battery drain and overheating now that the OxygenOS update is arriving.
Here are the OnePlus devices that will make the switch to Android 11:
OnePlus 9
OnePlus 9 Pro
OnePlus 9R
OnePlus 8T
OnePlus 8 Pro
OnePlus 8
OnePlus Nord
OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition
OnePlus 7T Pro
OnePlus 7T
OnePlus 7 Pro 5G
OnePlus 7 Pro
OnePlus 7
OnePlus 6T McLaren Edition
OnePlus 6T
OnePlus 6
With the OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro making their arrival, that adds a couple of more devices that are running Android 11. Plus, both of those devices will see the update to Android 12 and at least Android 13. Which is more than we can say about the OnePlus Nord N10 5G and Nord N100 which are slated for only one major Android release. Meanwhile, those are still running Android 10, and the company has not given any indication as to when Android 11 will come to the budget-friendly handsets.
OnePlus 6 and OnePlus 6T owners who have been waiting patiently for the arrival of Android 11 will have to keep waiting a little bit longer. The company has confirmed that the Android 11 update won't be arriving until after releasing Android 12, which is currently slated to launch this fall.
When will my Xiaomi phone get Android 11?
Xiaomi is one of the world's largest phone manufacturers, and the brand has turned its attention to Western markets in the last two years. Xiaomi sells phones from $100 all the way to $1,200, and it has made a name for itself as the go-to player for value.
The company has already pushed the Android 11 update live for Xiaomi Mi 10 and has turned its focus onto the Mi 10T and Mi 10T Pro. A new beta program has opened for these devices, as Xiaomi continues to bring the latest version of Android to its vast lineup of smartphones.
Based on a post that showed up on Xiaomi's MIUI community forums, the Android 11 update will be going out to 30 models across Xiaomi, POCO, and Redmi product lines. Undoubtedly, there will be more phones added to the list. For now, these are the Xiaomi phones expected to update to Android 11:
Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold
Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra
Xiaomi Mi 11 Pro
Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite / Lite 5G
Xiaomi Mi 11 Youth
Xiaomi Mi 11i
Xiaomi Mi 11
Xiaomi Mi 11X
Xiaomi Mi 11X Pro
Xiaomi Mi 10T
Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro
Xiaomi Mi 10
Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro
Xiaomi Mi 10 Youth Edition
Xiaomi Mi Note 10
Xiaomi Mi Note 10 Pro
Xiaomi Mi Note 10 Lite
Xiaomi Mi 9
Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro 5G
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite
Xiaomi Mi 9T
Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro
Xiaomi Mi A3
Redmi K40 Game Enhanced Edition
Redmi K30 Pro Zoom
Redmi K30 Pro
Redmi K30
Redmi K30 5G
Redmi K30i 5G
Redmi K20 Pro
Redmi K20
Redmi Note 9
Redmi Note 9 Pro
Redmi Note 9 Pro Max
Redmi 10X Pro
Redmi 10X 5G
Redmi 9
Redmi 9C
Redmi 9A
POCO F3
POCO F2 Pro
POCO X3 / X3 Pro / X3 NFC
POCO X2
POCO M2 Reloaded / M2 Pro
Poco M3 / M3 Pro 5G
Black Shark 4 / 4 Pro
When will my OPPO phone get Android 11?
OPPO is also turning its attention to Western markets. The Chinese manufacturer made a lot of changes to its ColorOS interface over the last 12 months, making it more palatable to a global audience.
After introducing the ColorOS 11 based on Android 11 in closed beta for the Find X2 series, the company has finally started rolling out the stable update to owners of the device.
We have a tentative timeline for when OPPO phones will get the ColorOS 11 beta based on Android 11. These are the OPPO devices that have already received the update to ColorOS 11:
A94 5G
A93 5G
A74 / A74 5G
A54 5G
Find X2 / X2 Pro
Find X3 Pro
Ace2
A9
Reno 2 F
Reno3
Reno3 Pro
Reno 4 5G
Reno 4 Pro 4G / Pro 5G
Reno 5 Lite
Reno 5 Pro+
Reno 5 Pro 5G
Reno 5 Z
Reno 6
Reno 6 Pro
Reno 6 Pro+
F15
F17 Pro
F19
Note that these are the expected timelines for the beta builds and not the stable update:
From October: Reno 4 Pro 5G
From November: Reno 4 5G, Reno 4 Pro 4G
From December: Reno 4 4G, F11, F11 Pro, F11 Pro Avengers Edition, A9, A92, A72, A52, Find X2 Pro Automobili Lamborghini Edition
From Q1 2021: Reno 10x Zoom, Reno 2, Reno 2F, Reno 2Z, Reno 3 Pro 5G, A91, F15
From Q2 2021: Reno, Reno Z, A5 2020, A9 2020
When will my Realme phone get Android 11?
Realme is also doing a closed Android 11 beta based on Realme UI 2.0 for the X50 Pro. Realme UI 2.0 comes with a host of new features, but at this moment, there's no indication of when the stable build will be made available.
We don't know how many Realme phones are scheduled to update to Android 11, but most devices released in the last 18 months should qualify for the update. Here's the list:
Realme X50 Pro 5G
Realme X50 Pro
Realme X50
Realme X7 Pro / X7 Pro Ultra
Realme X3
Realme X2 Pro
Realme X2
Realme XT
Realme X
Realme 8 Pro
Realme 8 5G
Realme 8
Realme 7 Pro
Realme 7
Realme 6 Pro
Realme 6
Realme 6i
Realme 6S
Realme 5
Realme 5 Pro
Realme 5i
Realme 5s
Realme 3 Pro
Realme 3
Realme Narzo 10
Realme Narzo 10A
Realme V5 5G
Realme Q2 5G / Q2 Pro 5G
Realme Q3 5G / Q3 Pro
Realme Q3i 5G
Realme GT Neo
Realme V13 5G
Realme C25
When will my Huawei phone get Android 11?
Although Huawei phones aren't very common/popular in the United States, the manufacturer gets a lot of attention in other parts of the world.
Huawei's Android 11 update will take the form of EMUI 11, and the company has finally shared its roadmap for what devices will receive this update. The list is surprisingly long, with even some tablets getting in on the Android 11 action.
There are a lot of Huawei phones we expect to get Android 11/EMUI 11, including:
Huawei Mate 40 series
Huawei P40 series
Huawei P30 series
Huawei Mate 30 series
Huawei Mate 20 series
Huawei Mate X/Xs
Huawei Nova 5T
You'll likely have to wait a few months for those updates to be pushed out. The Huawei P30 and P30 Pro received Android 10 in mid-November, shortly followed by the Mate 20 series.
When will my Motorola phone get Android 11?
The past year was an exciting one for Motorola. The company is still churning out high-quality budget devices, and alongside those, we see Moto's return to the flagship space. However, it's still straggling behind in an area that's been a pain point for years — software updates.
After staying mum for a little while, Motorola finally revealed which of its latest devices will be receiving an update to Android 11, and the list is as follows:
Motorola Edge+
Motorola Edge
Motorola RAZR / RAZR 5G
Moto G Stylus
Moto G Power
Moto G Fast
Moto G 5G / 5G Plus
Moto G Pro
Motorola One Fusion / Fusion+
Motorola One Hyper
Motorola One Zoom
Motorola One Action
Motorola One Macro
Motorola One 5G
Moto G8
Moto G8 Plus
Moto G8 Power
Moto G10
Moto G40 Fusion
Moto G50
Moto G60
Moto G100
Moto G9
Moto G9 Play
Moto G9 Plus
Moto G9 Power
Lenovo K12 Note
That's a solid list at first glance, but it comes with a big caveat. For every phone but the Edge+ and RAZR, Android 11 is the one and only software update they'll receive. There's also the fact that Motorola took its time with the Android 10 update, with the platform version not coming to the Moto G7 until May 11, 2020.
When will my LG phone get Android 11?
Keeping with the theme of manufacturers that often drop the ball for software updates, we have LG. With no update roadmap in place, here are the devices we think will get Android 11:
LG Wing
LG Velvet
LG G8
LG G8X
LG V60
LG V50
LG V50S
Android 10 was made available for the LG G8 in December 2019, with the LG V50 starting its Android 10 update in February 2020. We don't consider that to be a fast turnaround time, but it is better than what we usually see from LG.
Our fingers are crossed that LG gets even faster with rolling out Android 11, but we'll have to wait and see if that pans out.
When will my Nokia phone get Android 11?
Nokia has announced its Android 11 update schedule, with the first slate of devices set to receive the update by the end of 2020. While Nokia's devices fall under the Android One initiative, phones like the Nokia 7.2 and Nokia 9 PureView won't get the Android 11 update until Q2 2021.
After officially rolling out Android 11 to the Nokia 8.3 5G, the company's Chief Product Officer took to Twitter, suggesting that the rollout would be coming much quicker than expected for the rest of Nokia's devices. Only time will tell if that's to be believed, but Nokia seems to be sticking to its timeline it laid out late in 2020.
Now more than ever, it's important to use energy wisely, so we've compiled a list of the best energy monitoring smart plugs available right now. Smart plugs are the best and most convenient smart home accessories for controlling devices around your home. Most typically work with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa and can turn almost any lamp or small appliance into a smart device you can control with your phone or just your voice. We've highlighted the best smart plugs that go the extra mile and offer energy monitoring features that let you track how much energy your favorite devices and appliances draw so that you can make the best purchase decision for your household.
It's all in the name
TopGreener Heavy-Duty Smart Wi-Fi Plug
Staff Pick
This plug from TopGreener excels at what it does. It's a little chunkier than others on this list, meaning it will cover both outlets when plugged into a wall. However, it requires no hub for setup — just a 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi connection and the TopGreener app, where you can monitor real-time and historical power consumption data from your connected electronics and set times and schedules to avoid wasting energy.
The Lenovo Wi-Fi Smart Plug with Energy Monitor is a compact smart plug that lets you control lights or appliances using an accompanying Lenovo Link Pro app and control things with Google Assistant or Alexa without needing a hub. From the app, you can monitor the energy usage from the plugged-in appliance in real-time. It has all the safety features you need to keep your family and home safe and is backed by a one-year warranty.
Samsung's SmartThings system is a popular choice for building out your dream smart home with different sensors for monitoring all aspects around your home. If you're bought into this ecosystem already, you'll definitely want to invest in more smart plugs, which you can then monitor your plugged-in devices via the SmartThings app. You can connect over 200 SmartThings devices to a single hub, so, in theory, you can monitor every plug-in device in your home if you so choose.
Kasa/TP-Link's smart home products are super popular because they're affordable and designed to be simple to use. In fact, it's so easy to use that Amazon has added it to its Certified for Humans program. With the Smart Plug Mini, you can monitor your energy use and schedule devices to power on/off whenever you want. It also allows for group control and features a handy away mode for when you're on extended absence.
Satechi Dual Smart Outlet with Real-Time Power Monitoring
This smart plug offers two outlets, with a single "always on" outlet and three that can be individually controlled using the smartphone app or with Apple's Siri, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa. It uses the Satechi app for setup and real-time energy monitoring, and it leaves the second outlet space available for your other devices.
This smart plug from Eve not only works with your favorite smart assistant or through its app, but you can even tap it to turn it on or off. You can purchase these in single or double packs.
Are you dealing with rising energy costs for your home? Energy monitoring is a great way to test out what devices and appliances in your home are drawing more power while plugged in. By having a better idea of which things around your house are drawing more power, you can make sensible decisions that could end up saving you a ton of money on your power bill.
Our top recommendation is the TopGreener Heavy-Duty Smart Wi-Fi Plug, which is a reliable smart plug with built-in energy monitoring that you can review from the app and track your plug-in devices' power consumption. It's also available in other finishes and bundles to suit various styles and use cases.
For a multi-plug option, we've got the Satechi Dual Smart Outlet with Real-Time Power Monitoring, which offers you the most flexibility, and the Eve Energy Smart Plug & Power Meter gives you multi-assistant capabilities with good old fashioned touch to tap functionality.
If you decide you want something simpler or just want to check out other options, there are plenty of other great smart plugs available.
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Apps like Sharedr will no longer be able to replace the default share dialog.
What you need to know
Third-party apps will not be allowed to replace the Android share menu in Android 12.
You will no longer be able to set apps like Sharedr as the default.
Google says it never intended to allow third-party apps to replace the official Sharesheet.
One of Android 12's biggest highlights is the new Material You design language, which brings major changes to nearly every key UI component. Android 12 will also introduce a major change to the way users share links and photos, according to a report from XDA Developers.
On Android 11, Google allows third-party apps and OEMs to fully customize the Android Sharesheet, which is the reason why the share dialog differs from one app to another. It is even possible to completely bypass the official Android Sharesheet by setting an app like Sharedr as the default Sharesheet. In addition to providing a more consistent experience, Sharedr also gets rid of Direct Share to help you access the Sharesheet more quickly on the best cheap Android phones.
The developer of Sharedr recently filed a report on the AOSP bug tracker website after finding that Android 12 no longer shows a prompt to choose between Sharedr and the system share menu. Responding to the issue, Google's product and engineering team told the developer:
We had never actually intended to allow apps to replace the share dialog, that Intent is for apps to launch the share dialog. Being able to replace the share dialog is also becoming increasingly impossible -- you couldn't implement the direct share part of the UI, nor the personal vs. work profile tabs in R, etc. This is just not something that is feasible to allow apps to replace.
This means users will not be able to set Sharedr or any similar app as the default Sharesheet after updating to Android 12. Sharedr's listing on the Google Play Store has also been updated to warn users that it will stop working on Android 12.
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While newer and more novel products like the ones mentioned above often see a faster update cycle, more mature devices like Kindle e-readers and Fire tablets go longer between new versions. In fact, the last update to the Fire HD 10 line was back in 2019, so, understandably, Amazon was ready to reinvigorate its flagship tablet. Not only did it update the specs and colors on the Fire HD 10, but it also gave us a second version in the Fire HD 10 Plus.
Amazon sent me the regular Fire HD 10 (2021) with the new Productivity Bundle to review. However, after having used both the Fire HD 8 and Fire HD 8 Plus last year, I think it's fairly safe to assume that the experience using the Fire HD 10 Plus will be largely similar for most people, save a few extra perks added to that more premium edition. The changes Amazon made with the standard Fire HD 10 aren't revolutionary, but they are enough to make it the best tablet under $200 and the one you should probably buy for your family.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021)
Bottom line: The 2021 editions of the Fire HD 10 tablet continue to offer a lot of bang for your buck, with large HD screens, more RAM, and even wireless charging options with the HD 10 Plus. But what takes the Fire HD 10 line to the next level is the Productivity Bundle, which turns the affordable tablet into a part-time productivity powerhouse.
The good
More RAM for faster performance
USB-C charging has arrived!
Best-in-class parental controls
Solid Bluetooth keyboard case in Productivity Bundle
Microsoft Office 365 and 1 TB of OneDrive in Productivity Bundle
The two "adult" tablets announced were the Fire HD 10 and Fire HD 10 Plus, which followed a similar release strategy employed with the Fire HD 8 and Fire HD 8 Plus. Both the Fire HD 10 and Fire HD 10 Plus come in 32GB and 64GB base storage configurations and start at $150 and $180. The Kids Pro Fire tablets are priced at $100 for the Fire 7 Kids Pro, $140 for the Fire HD 8 Kids Pro, and $200 for the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro.
As with the Fire HD 8 line, the main differences between the Fire HD 10 and Fire HD 10 Plus come down to the available RAM, wireless charging, and color options, all of which we'll address below. Amazon offers several different bundles, including a Productivity edition with either model that includes a custom, "made for Amazon" Bluetooth keyboard and a 12-month Microsoft 365 Personal subscription. The HD 10 Plus model also offers a bundle with a custom wireless charging dock, similar to the one offered with the HD 8 Plus. Customers have the option to purchase the Fire HD 10 as a Lockscreen Ad-Supported version or Without Lockscreen Ads.
You can purchase both the Fire HD 10 and Fire HD 10 Plus directly from Amazon and Best Buy, though the bundles can only currently be found through Amazon. We expect the tablets to be available through additional retailers in the coming months.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021): What's new
The Fire HD 10 is typically Amazon's flagship tablet, but it had been nearly two years since we'd seen any update or refresh to the device. The Fire HD 8 and 8 Plus, which have themselves been out for almost a year, gave us a good preview of what to expect for the newest big Fire tablets, so before we get into what I liked and disliked about the device, let's take a quick look to see just what has changed.
Category
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021)
Operating System
FireOS 7 based on Android 9
Display
10.1-inch, 1080p, full HD
1920x1200 (224 ppi)
Processor
8-core 2.0 GHz
Memory
3GB RAM (Fire HD 10)
4GB RAM (Fire HD 10 Plus)
Storage
32GB or 64GB
Expandable Storage
Up to 1TB via microSD
Charging
USB-C
Wireless Charging
Only on Fire HD 10 Plus with wireless charging dock accessory
Rear Camera
5MP
Front Camera
2MP
Privacy
PIN code
Alexa mute switch
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 2.4/5GHz, Bluetooth 5 LE with support for A2DP headphones and speakers
Ports
USB-C
3.6mm headphone jack
Audio
3.5 mm headphone jack and dual integrated speakers
Battery
lasts up to 12 hours
Water Resistance
No
Dimensions
9.73 x 6.53 x .36 inches
Weight
16.5oz without keyboard or case
Colors
Black, Denim, Olive, Lavender (Fire HD 10 only)
Slate (Fire HD 10 Plus only)
The basic dimensions, including size, weight, display resolution, battery life, and storage configurations, haven't changed since 2019, but there are definitely enough upgrades to make this version worth considering, even if you have the previous model.
For starters, while still not great, the rear camera is nearly three times as good as before, upgrading from a 2MP sensor to a 5MP sensor. And while the internal storage configurations are the same as last time, you now get twice the external storage capacity of up to 1TB via a microSD card.
Of course, the biggest change to the 2021 model(s) is that there are now two Fire HD 10 devices. Both have increased RAM over the 2019 model (3GB for the standard Fire HD 10 and 4GB for the HD 10 Plus). Both are available in a Productivity Bundle, including a surprisingly nice Bluetooth Keyboard case and a 12-month subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal edition. Interestingly, both devices also comply with Amazon's Climate Pledge Friendly program and are comprised of over a quarter of post-consumer recycled content (more on this later).
These two new models differ in the available RAM (mentioned above), the color options (mentioned in the table here), and the fact that the HD 10 Plus can charge wirelessly with a compatible wireless charging dock.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021): What I like
I've owned or reviewed more than a half-dozen Fire tablets over the years, and the one thing that you can consistently say about them is that they've been consistently good.... enough. Amazon has skimped with specs in some areas (like the cameras or materials) and instead provided its customers with affordable portals to enjoy its and other partners' content. You've always had pretty decent screens, expandable storage options, headphone jacks, and ridiculously rugged durability. On the other hand, the Fire tablets have been relatively underpowered for productivity, can't (easily) run Google apps and services, and haven't had as many good Bluetooth keyboard accessories. Well, much of that has changed now with these new Fire HD 10 tablets.
The Fire HD 10 (2021) is light and durable, making it easy to hold up for long binge-watching sessions.
The Fire HD 10 (2021) pretty much looks and feels like its predecessors, but that's not a bad thing at all. Because it's made out of plastic, it's light, durable, and easy to hold for long periods of time, whether you're reading a Kindle book or catching up on your favorite streaming series. Many have scoffed at the plastic build, but one thing's for sure — you don't have to baby this thing. It can take most bumps, scrapes, and even drops and keep on rolling. That just adds to its value, in my opinion.
I appreciate that Amazon continues to include a headphone jack with the Fire HD 10 (2021), which is something my current couch companion — the Lenovo Chromebook Duet — does not have. I also like how easy it is to cast content (even web pages) to my Echo Show and Fire TV devices. I realize you can do this with Google Chrome and Chromecast devices, but it's still a nice perk here.
When it comes to performance, I've never been overly impressed with the speed or responsiveness of Fire tablets, but this edition has changed my tune. Scrolling is just as fast here as on my Lenovo Chromebook Duet, which is to say it's mostly very smooth with nary a noticeable stutter. That's no doubt due at least in part to the bump in RAM over the previous version, and it's good to see here, especially on a device that's intended to be used (at least partially) as a productivity machine.
It's been a long-time coming, but we finally have USB-C in Amazon's largest tablets, and like the Fire HD 8 Plus, the Fire HD 10 Plus is capable of charging wirelessly with the available wireless charging dock. Both versions of the Fire HD 10 support hands-free Alexa access (with a shortcut in the notification shade to prevent Alexa from listening). Both versions also support Show Mode, which essentially turns your Fire tablet into an Echo Show device when it is docked and charging, and both also have the Devices Dashboard, which gives you quick access to control your connected home devices.
But aside from now offering two versions of the Fire HD 10, the big update is that both versions can be purchased as part of a Fire HD 10/Plus Productivity Bundle. For around $70 over the base price of each device, this bundle includes a bespoke Bluetooth keyboard (made by accessory maker Fintie), as well as a 12-month subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal edition, which itself includes 1TB of OneDrive storage.
I've been waiting years to have legitimate productivity options on a Fire tablet device, and Amazon (and Microsoft) have delivered.
I've wanted the option to do light work on Fire Tablets for years, and this first-party implementation is actually pretty good. When it comes to productivity, I'm heavily invested in the Google ecosystem and have been using Google apps and services like Docs, Gmail, and Drive for almost a decade and a half. It had been even longer than that since I'd regularly used the Microsoft Office suite, so I expected a bit of a learning curve. However, I'm pleased to report that just wasn't the case. While compatibility and interoperability with Google services aren't really there, I had no issues using the Microsoft services in a similar manner to how I use Google's. I also liked how Microsoft's offerings allowed me to scan and sign PDFs, convert PDFs to Word docs for editing, and even let me scan QR codes and create forms. That's pretty productive for a $150 tablet.
The Bluetooth keyboard and case snap around the Fire HD 10 quite snuggly and securely to provide additional drop protection as well. I found the typing experience pretty good, whether on a hard surface, my lap, or pillow while on the couch. Compared to the Lenovo Chromebook Duet, the biggest difference was that the screen on the Fire HD 10 wobbled a bit when typing (because it doesn't have a kickstand to support the back). It wasn't a dealbreaker by any means, but it was noticeable at times. The key travel was good, though the keys were a bit loud and clacky for my tastes. I did appreciate how you can tab through apps on the home screen and use the arrow and search keys to navigate the UI without taking your hands off the keyboard. Still, I would have appreciated a trackpad or pointing device for more precision and flexibility.
There is a split-screen mode that works well for multitasking, and the keyboard has built-in shortcuts for locking the screen and opening apps like email, files, and internet browsers. Better still, you can customize what those shortcut keys open and assign them from Amazon's built-in apps to ones like Outlook and OneDrive. The keyboard also charges via USB-C, so you can just pack one cord with you when you go out (not that you'll need to because it can hold a charge for over 400 hours).
Even though Amazon has a Kids Fire tablet lineup consisting of six separate devices, parents still have plenty of options to implement age restrictions, parental controls, family profiles, and family library access, and there are plenty of durable cases available if the tablet is intended to be shared with other members of the family.
There are many accessibility features built-in to Fire OS, including a Voice View feature that helps people with vision problems navigate the UI. The tablets also feature Braille Display Support and Braile Screen Input with compatible connected devices. Other accessibility features include settings to adjust the font size and magnification, high contrast text, color correction, inversion, audio descriptions, closed captioning, etc.
Finally, I wanted to acknowledge my appreciation of Amazon's commitment to sustainability. These new tablets comply with its Climate Pledge Friendly program, using 27% post-consumer recycled plastics for the device, 27% post-consumer plastics for the case. Even the packaging is more sustainable, consisting of 95% wood fiber-based materials that Amazon says have been acquired from "responsibly managed forests or recycled sources."
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021): What could be better
It's hard to get too critical of a device that offers such good value for the money, but there are a few things that I'd like to see improved in future Fire HD 10 tablets.
When it comes to the build quality, I've already mentioned how durable the Fire HD 10 is, but it sure would be nice if it had some form of official water and dust protection. Just something to protect it from accidental spills, surprise splashes, or occasional Cheeto dust that this tablet is sure to encounter would be nice to have.
Amazon, please give us a trackpad on the next Bluetooth keyboard!
For the Productivity Bundle, I would love to have a version of the Bluetooth keyboard case with a trackpad or pointing device of some kind. While I preferred the typing experience to that on the Lenovo Chromebook Duet, the Duet's keyboard won out for me in terms of usability because of that handy trackpad (and the kickstand on the back).
Not that you should, or will, take a lot of photos with your Fire HD 10, but I'd like to see an improvement in the sensor and image processing in the next version. Yes, this 2021 edition has a much-improved sensor (at least on paper) to the 2019 version — 5MP compared to 2MP — but it's still ... not great.
As you can see with these indoor shots below, there is very little dynamic range, and the images are particularly muddled. "Potato cam" is the phrase that first came to mind. Granted, these were taken in low-light conditions, but they're not impressive at all.
When you take the Fire HD 10 outdoors or into a more well-lit space, the results improve. The colors look ok, though highlights can get blown out, and the detail still isn't very crisp. This kind of quality is to be expected in a tablet camera, especially one that costs under $200, but it's something you may want to know if you're considering picking one up.
Finally, I have to bring this up with every Fire tablet review because it's the elephant in the room, but Amazon's tablets don't have ready access to Google Play Services, the Play Store, or Google apps. You can sideload them, but it's a bit of a process, and most consumers aren't likely to bother. This is nothing new, but I hadn't realized that you couldn't even access most Google services from the built-in Silk internet browser. Whenever I tried to go to docs.google.com or sheets.google.com, I was redirected to the product info pages and couldn't get the web apps to open. I could get a version of Gmail in the browser, but it wasn't a great experience, and I was better off just adding my Gmail account to the built-in Amazon email app or Outlook. However, if you intend to buy the Productivity Bundle with Microsoft services, this probably won't be a huge loss for you.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021): Competition
Fire tablets have always been a good value for content consumption, and their low prices are part of why we still include them on our roundup of the best Android tablets. Most of the other Android tablets on that list are priced significantly higher than Amazon's offerings, so it's a little challenging teasing out just who makes a compelling alternative from a financial perspective.
From a hardware perspective, it's hard to dispute that Samsung's Galaxy Tab S lineup is the king of the Android camp, but the Galaxy Tab S7 and Galaxy Tab S7 Plus are crazy expensive. Thankfully, the company has announced lower-cost options in this lineup in the form of upcoming Galaxy Tab S7 FE and Lite versions.
One of my personal favorite alternatives (and the device I often turn to at the end of the day) is the Lenovo Chromebook Duet. It offers a very similar experience to the Fire HD 10 Productivity editions at a comparable price point. It's priced comparably to the Fire HD 10 Productivity bundle, and you get the flexibility of running both Chrome OS and Android apps, and even Linux, if that's your thing. Plus, the keyboard case includes a trackpad and kickstand, making it much easier to be productive, at least in my opinion.
Arguably the best alternative is Apple's entry-level iPad. While that is a fantastic device for the money, it's still twice as much as the Fire HD 10, and that doesn't count all the accessories you might want to pick up, like an Apple Pencil, Bluetooth keyboard, or protective case.
Finally, if you want to save a little money and don't need the Productivity Bundle, you can get nearly the same experience with either the Amazon Fire HD 8 or Fire HD 8 Plus . The only major compromise here is in screen size.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021): Should you buy it?
You should buy this if ...
You're already invested in the Amazon/Alexa ecosystem or are assistant agnostic
You use and are comfortable with Microsoft apps and services
You want a good, casual consumption tablet with the option of doing some light work on it
You need or want a super-affordable secondary productivity device
You shouldn't buy this if ...
You need a more robust productivity platform
You're ensconced in the Google ecosystem
4.5out of 5
Amazon's Fire tablets have always been a great value for consuming content, whether watching videos, playing games, or reading books and comics. Still, they've never been a valid option for getting real work done — even light work. However, now that they come equipped with more RAM, a purpose-built Bluetooth keyboard case, and a year of Microsoft Office 365, they're a legitimate challenger to cheaper Android and Windows tablets and convertibles and even low-cost Chromebooks.
Those who want a serious portable device should still look at a mid to high-range Chromebook, iPad Pro, or Surface tablet. Still, for around $200, it's tough to argue against the new Fire HD 10 tablets with the Productivity Bundle. I'm happy to stay in my Google-centric world and stick to Chromebooks and Chrome OS tablets, but if you took those away and told me that I could only use the Fire HD 10 (2021) with Productivity Bundle, I'd get along happily.
If you're not interested in the productivity add-ons, I recommend you stick to the base model Fire HD 10. The reasons are the same I gave when I compared the Fire HD 8 and Fire HD 8 Plus last summer. I suspect that most who purchase a Fire tablet won't notice the extra GB of RAM, nor need the wireless charging option, especially if they're sharing it with family members. And while 32GB of storage is not a lot, you can easily and affordably expand up to 1 TB with any of the best microSD cards if and when you need to.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021)
Bottom line: The 2021 editions of the Fire HD 10 tablet continue to offer a lot of bang for your buck, with large HD screens, more RAM, and even wireless charging options with the HD 10 Plus. But what takes the Fire HD 10 line to the next level is the Productivity Bundle, which turns the affordable tablet into a part-time productivity powerhouse.
Facebook-like emoji reactions are also coming to Twitter.
What you need to know
Twitter is working on a new feature to help further reduce misinformation on its platform.
It could soon introduce three levels of misinformation warning labels.
Twitter is also testing emoji reactions similar to Facebook.
In March last year, Twitter introduced warning labels with an aim to fight misinformation on its platform. While the labels were initially limited to coronavirus misinformation, they were later expanded to misleading tweets about elections in the U.S. App sleuth Jane Manchun Wong has now discovered that Twitter is working on three levels of misinformation warning labels.
Twitter is working on three levels of misinformation warning labels:
As per the screenshot shared by Wong, tweets that contain misinformation will be labeled as "Misleading" with a warning icon and a "Find out more" link with more detailed information. Twitter will also help users stay informed and get the latest information about important topics with new "Stay Informed" and "Get the latest" labels. While no details are currently available, the "Stay Informed" and "Get the latest" labels could help spread more authoritative information about topics such as COVID-19 and vaccination.
Twitter is also said to be working on bringing emoji reactions to its platform, similar to Facebook and the best Android messaging apps. According to Wong, the upcoming feature will include five reactions: Like, Cheer, Hmm, Sad, and Haha. As can be seen in the tweet above, however, the feature is a work in progress currently. Only the Hmm and Haha reaction buttons appear to have an emoji next to them. That said, it is still likely that tweet reactions will be rolled out to users sometime later this year.
It remains to be seen if tweet reactions will be limited to users with a Twitter Blue subscription. The subscription service is expected to cost $2.99 per month and will include exclusive features such as the ability to choose custom app icons, color themes, and a Reader Mode that will make threads a lot easier to read. Additionally, users with a Twitter Blue subscription will have access to the 'undo tweets' option.
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It is a rebranded version of the Realme GT Neo launched in China earlier this year.
What you need to know
Realme has launched a new mid-range Android phone in India.
The Realme X7 Max 5G features a 120Hz AMOLED display and a 6nm Dimensity 1200 chipset.
It will go on sale in India from June 4 for a starting price of ₹26,999 ($370).
Back in March, Realme unveiled its first Dimensity 1200-powered phone in China, dubbed the GT Neo. The company has now launched the phone in India as the Realme X7 Max 5G to take on the best Android phones from OnePlus, Samsung, and Xiaomi in the mid-range segment.
The Realme X7 Max 5G arrives with a 6.43-inch AMOLED display that offers an impressive 120Hz refresh rate and includes a hole-punch cutout for a 16MP selfie camera in the top-left corner. The display also covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and has a high 360Hz touch sampling rate. Realme has paired the Dimensity 1200 chipset inside the X7 Max 5G with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage. The phone also touts a stainless steel vapor chamber cooling system, which is claimed to help reduce the core temperature by up to 15°C (59°F).
In the camera department, the Realme X7 Max 5G has a triple-lens setup with a 64MP Sony IMX682 primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. The X7 Max 5G also packs a 4,500mAh battery with support for Realme's 50W SuperDart charging tech. Realme says it only takes sixteen minutes for the phone's battery to be charged from 0 to 50%. On the software side of things, the Realme's latest mid-ranger runs Realme UI 2.0 based on top of Android 11.
Realme X7 Max 5G will be available to purchase in India from June 4 via Flipkart, Realme.com, and offline stores across the country. It has been priced at ₹26,999 ($370) for the 8GB/128GB version and ₹29,999 ($415) for the 12GB/256GB version. The phone comes in three color options: Asteroid Black, Mercury Silver, and Milky Way.
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