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samedi 31 juillet 2021

How to stream Xbox Game Pass (xCloud) to your Android phone

Xbox Game Pass cloud streaming is now available for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members. What was formerly known as xCloud in beta allows players to stream games to their Android phones without worrying about downloads. If you have a Game Pass Ultimate membership, the process of streaming is incredibly simple. If a game doesn't support touch controls, all you'll need to do is connect a Bluetooth controller, and you'll be ready to go. We'll show you how to stream Xbox Game Pass to Android. Let's get started.

How to stream Xbox Game Pass (xCloud) to your Android phone

  1. Download the Xbox Game Pass app through the play store.
  2. Update the app if it hasn't already been updated.
  3. Sign-in to your Microsoft account.
    • If you don't already have a Game Pass Ultimate membership, you'll need to upgrade.
  4. Select Cloud on the bar between Cloud, Console, and PC.

  5. Select which game you'd like to play.
  6. Connect a Bluetooth controller if you haven't already.

  7. Enjoy!

It really is as simple as that. Because everything is streamed from the cloud, you don't need to worry about waiting for downloads. So long as you have an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and a compatible Android phone, just select the game you'd like to play, and you're good to go. Performance may vary depending on your internet connection, however. Microsoft recommends using a 5GHz Wi-Fi network with at least 10Mbps down.

Xbox Game Pass cloud streaming is available in 22 countries and supports over 150 games. So long as your device runs Android 6.0 or later, Xbox Game Pass cloud streaming should be compatible.

Game on

Xbox One Wireless Controller

$59 at Amazon From $50 at Best Buy

Start streaming today

Xbox Game Pass cloud streaming supports several Bluetooth controllers, including the PS4 DualShock 4 and other officially branded third-party controllers, but nothing beats Microsoft's own Xbox One Wireless Controller.

Subscribe

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 1-month

From $1/mo. at Microsoft $15/mo. at Amazon $15/mo. at Best Buy

Your key to game streaming

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a phenomenal deal. With game streaming, Xbox Live Gold, EA Play, and access to the entire Xbox Game Pass catalog, it's easily one of the best-valued packages in gaming. Pick up a membership today and hop in.



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How to watch Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix 2021 online from anywhere

We've reached the halfway point in Formula 1's 2021 season and drivers and teams will be in Hungary for what looks to be a heated Hungarian Grand Prix this weekend and we have all the details on how you can watch the race on TV or online.

The ongoing rivalry between Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull's Max Verstappen came to a head earlier this month at the British Grand Prix when the two drivers collided during the first lap of the race. While Verstappen crashed his car into the tire barrier and was taken to the hospital, Hamilton went on to take the podium after passing Ferrari's Charles Leclerc with just three laps left in the race.

As Verstappen is currently in first place with 185 points with five wins and eight podiums, winning this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix could be enough to move Hamilton out of second place and back to the top of the standings. Hamilton also currently holds the best lap record at the Hungaroring with a time of one minute and sixteen seconds which he set at last year's Hungarian Grand Prix which does give him an advantage over Verstappen.

The Hungarian Grand Prix is held at the Hungaroring in Mogyoród, Hungary each year and the track has 14 turns with a circuit length of 2.722 miles. Drivers will complete 70 laps and cover just over 190 miles before finishing the race. The Hungaroring also holds the distinction of being Formula 1's first Grand Prix behind the former Iron Curtain. Back in 1985, former chief executive of the Formula 1 Group Bernie Ecclestone decided he wanted a race in the USSR and a friend recommended Budapest. The circuit was originally intended to be located in Budapest's largest park and be similar to the one used in the Monaco Grand Prix. However, the Hungarian government decided to build the Hungaroring outside the city near a major highway.

Whether you've been closely following the 2021 Formula 1 season or the rivalry between Hamilton and Verstappen, we have all the details on how you can watch the Hungarian Grand Prix from anywhere in the world.

Hungarian Grand Prix - When and where?

The 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix will be held at the Hungaroring in Mogyoród, Hungary from July 30 to August 1. Two practice sessions will be held on Friday and another practice session along with the qualifying session will be held on Saturday. The Hungarian Grand Prix will take place on Sunday, August 1 and the race will begin at 9am ET / 6am PT / 2pm BST. Racing fans in the US will be able to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix on ESPN while it will be broadcast on Sky Sports in the UK, TSN in Canada and on Fox Sports in Australia.

How to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix for free

Racing fans in Austria will be able to watch the entire F1 season for free this year as the Red Bull-owned free-to-air station ServusTV has split the broadcast rights with ORF. This means that if you live in Austria, you'll be able to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix for free on either ServusTV or ORF beginning at 3pm CEST on Sunday.

How to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix live from anywhere

We have all the details on how you can watch the Hungarian Grand Prix in the U.S., Canada, the UK and Australia further below in this guide. However, if you want to watch this year's race when you're away from home, then you'll run into problems as your domestic coverage online from abroad will likely be geo-blocked.

That's where a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can really come in handy. They allow you to virtually change the IP address of your laptop, tablet or mobile to one that's back in your home country which will let you watch as if you were back there.

VPNs are incredibly easy to use and have the added benefit of providing you with an additional layer of security when surfing the web. There are also a lot of options but we recommend ExpressVPN as our top pick due to its speed, security and ease of use. The service can even be used on a wide array of operating systems and devices (e.g. iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Fire TV Stick, Roku, game consoles, etc). Sign up for ExpressVPN now and enjoy a 49% discount and 3 months FREE with an annual subscription. You can even test it out for yourself thanks to the service's 30-day money back guarantee. Looking for more options?

Here are some other VPNs that are on sale right now.

ExpressVPN

See latest price at ExpressVPN

No matter where in the world you may be, a VPN is one of the easiest ways to watch Formula 1. Get in on this deal now!

How to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix live in the U. S.

If you live in the U.S. and have a cable subscription, you'll be able to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix on ESPN with coverage of the race beginning at 8:55am ET / 5:55am PT. If you happen to miss the race, don't worry as ESPN will show a replay on ESPN3 later on in the afternoon at 11am ET / 8am PT.

Not interested in signing up for cable just to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix on ESPN. Don't worry as there are now a number of streaming services, all at different price points, which will give you access to the network so you watch the race online. We've listed a few of our favorites below to make things easier for you.

  • Hulu with Live TV - $64.99 per month - As well as giving you access to ESPN, the service also includes its own Hulu Originals and supports a wide variety of streaming devices.
  • Sling TV - $35 per month - In order to get access to ESPN, you'll have to sign up for Sling TV's Sling Orange package. The service also lets you watch on three screens simultaneously and record 50 hours of live TV with its Cloud DVR.
  • YouTube TV - $65 per month - YouTube TV gives you access to ESPN as well as over 70 other TV channels and a free 14-day trial available.
  • AT&T TV Now - $55 per month - AT&T TV Now's plus plan gives you access to ESPN as well as over 45 other live TV channels and you can also record up to 20 hours of content using its cloud DVR.

Alternatively, fuboTV is an even broader end-to-end cable replacement service, offering ESPN and over 120 other channels on plans starting from $64.99 a month.

FuboTV

Sign up at fubo TV today

FuboTV plans start at $65 monthly and include access to stream over 100 live TV channels with your subscription! There's also a tier with only Spanish-language channels available for only $33 monthly. Start your free trial now to check out the service before paying a cent.

Watch the Hungarian Grand Prix in Canada

Formula 1 fans in Canada will be able to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix on TSN and the network's coverage of the race will begin at 8:55am ET / 5:55am PT on TSN5. You can also stream the entire race online with the TSN app on your smartphone and other mobile devices.

If you've already cut the cord and want to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix online, you can get access to TSN's content for as little as $4.99 for a TSN Direct Day Pass or $19.99 for a monthly streaming subscription.

TSN Direct

From $19.99 per month at TSN

TSN Direct offers F1 streaming for $20 a month, or just snag a Day Pass to watch the French Grand Prix.

Live stream the Hungarian Grand Prix in the UK

UK viewers with a Sky Sports subscription will be able to watch this year's Hungarian Grand Prix on the network's dedicated Sky Sports F1 channel beginning at 2pm BST. However, you can also stream the full race on your smartphone or tablet with the Sky Go app.

Don't want to sign up for a lengthy Sky Sports contract just to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix, don't worry as you can watch the race live on NOW TV with a Sky Sports Day Pass for £9.98 or a Sky Sports Two Month Pass for £25.99. NOW TV will also let you stream the race on your computer, smartphone, smart TV or other streaming devices.

Sky Sports

From £43 per month at Sky

Sky Sports F1 will show all the action from Var plus a ton of other exclusive sports coverage throughout the year.

NOW Sports Membership

From £10 at NOW

Watch Sky Sports' coverage of the French Grand Prix online with a NOW Sports Membership. Watch today's coverage for £10 or snag a monthly pass for £34.

How to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix in Australia

If you live in Australia and have a Foxtel cable package, you'll be able to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix on Fox Sports beginning at 10:55pm AEST / 8:55pm AWST on Sunday evening. However, if you happen to miss the race, there will be replays on Monday at both 6am AEST / 4am AWST and later on in the afternoon at 12:30pm AEST / 10:30am AWST.

Not interested in signing up for cable to watch the Hungarian Grand Prix? Don't worry as you can watch the entire event online on Kayo Sports. The service costs between $25 and $35 per month depending on the package you choose but new customers can take advantage of Kayo Sports' 14-day free trial to watch the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix.

Kayo Sports

From $25 at Kayo Sports

Kayo Sports is an easy way to get streaming access to Fox Sports' coverage of the French Grand Prix. You can even make the most of a free trial if you've never signed up before.



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Here's a few quick steps to help you change NAT type on your PS5

No one likes encountering slow, unstable connections when playing on their PS5. If you've checked your router and everything seems fine, it might be your NAT. If you've got a Strict NAT type, it can block you off from connecting to many players online, which will increase search times for matches and make it more difficult to play with friends. Here's how to change your NAT type on PS5.

How to change NAT type on PS5

First, you'll want to check just what NAT type you actually have. If you've already got an Open NAT, chances are your problems aren't related to the NAT. If you're on Wi-Fi, try using one of the best Ethernet cables for PS5 for a hardwired connection instead. Now, here's how you can check your NAT type:

How to check NAT type on PS5

  1. Turn on your PS5.
  2. Go to Settings.
  3. Select Network.

  4. Under Connection Status, select View Connection Status

  5. Alternatively, you can select Test Internet Connection

Either way, you'll be given your NAT information, alongside other useful info like upload and download speeds for your PS5.

Understanding NAT types on PS5

There are three kinds of NAT types. While the PS5 refers to it as NAT Type 1, 2, and 3, these types are more commonly called Open, Moderate, and Strict. Essentially, each governs what kind of other NAT-type connections you can link up with. Open can connect to anything, Moderate can connect to Open or Moderate, and Strict can only connect to Open. We've visualized it below:

Open Moderate Strict
Open
Moderate
Strict

If you've already got NAT Type 1, or Open NAT, well done, you're good to go. But, if not, this is where things get tricky, as you'll need to do something called Port Forwarding.

NAT type on PS5: What is Port Forwarding?

Port Forwarding is the process by which you open up different digital ports on your router. These ports dictate the flow of internet content to your different devices. For example, video game consoles like the PS5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S tend to use ports that are normally closed, meaning that if you're having trouble getting an Open NAT, opening up these ports can generally solve the problem.

How to use Port Forwarding on PS5

To get Open NAT, you'll need to open ports on your router specifically for the PS5. The process for opening ports will be different for every single router, so we recommend searching for additional information specific to your model router if you run into difficulty. You'll need to have your router Login information, as well as the IP address and MAC address for your PS5. You can find the latter two in the steps above under the Network section of the PS5's setting.

  1. Go to your Router Login Page.
  2. Login using your required information.
  3. Navigate to your router's port settings.
  4. Open the following ports for your PS5:
  • TCP: 1935, 3478-3480
  • UDP: 3074, 3478-3479
  1. Once you save those settings, restart your router.
  2. Next, restart your PS5.
  3. Go through the steps above for testing your PS5's internet connection.
  4. Your NAT type should now be NAT type 1 or Open NAT.

If you run into any more problems, double-check these steps to ensure all the information was input correctly, and the settings were saved properly on your router.

Once your connection is stable again, you might want to consider using one of the best PS5 headsets when talking with your friends to make sure they can hear you loud and clear.

Our pick

Cat-8 Ethernet Cable from Vabogu

$19 at Amazon

Crank the numbers up

A hard-wired internet connection is almost always superior to a Wi-Fi signal, so if you're having trouble getting the right speeds, try connecting your PS5 directly to your router with this Ethernet cable.

Stock up

PlayStation Store Gift Card

Grab a couple

If you want to make sure you're topped off and able to grab PS5 games with ease, the best way is by purchasing a PlayStation Store gift card, which comes in various denominations.



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Best China VPN 2021

Those of you who've travelled to China in the past have more than likely experienced the effects of the Great Firewall - a controlled censoring of the internet which blocks a number of websites and services popular in the western world. The best VPN (Virtual Private Network) services can help you with this.

Whether you're there on business or vacation, having the likes of Instagram, Facebook, Skype and WhatsApp blocked means you won't be able to keep in touch with family and friends back home. With streaming services like Netflix blocked too, you may find yourself more than a little bored in your hotel room.

With this in mind, setting up a virtual private network (VPN) is a no-brainer for those travelling to China, as it'll unblock all the sites you need to get your fix. The use of a VPN is, as expected, not exactly kosher, so we're not condoning it ourselves. We have, however, rounded up five of the best options, if you decide to explore your choices.

How does a China VPN get me access?

A VPN diverts your signal through another server, often in another country, using a different IP address. This means that you can appear to be anywhere else in the world, anonymously, helping protect your identity while unblocking content that's not allowed in your physical location.

In practical terms, this means that you can access services such as Netflix and Twitter in China, without any pesky error pages getting in the way.

Here are five of the best VPN services recommended for use in China.

1. ExpressVPN

Best VPN for China

Works in China: Yes | Unblocks Netflix: Yes | 24/7 customer support: Yes | Money back guarantee: 30 days | Also unlocks: Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | Maximum devices supported: 5

Pros

  • Lots of China-suitable servers
  • Unblocked live chat and support
  • Works across all devices

Cons

  • More expensive

ExpressVPN is our top pick for the best VPN for China, as it actively monitors its network to ensure that it keeps ahead of the Great Firewall's efforts, using a mixture of fancy protocols and other tech to ensure that services remain unblocked.

Its server locations are another key benefit, with locations including Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan, for increased speed and stability. Topping this all off is the company's 24/7 live chat service which, thankfully, isn't blocked by default, allowing you to iron out any niggling setup problems with ease.

While it's one of the more expensive options available, you get what you pay for - and a 30-day money back guarantee doesn't hurt either.

It may not be the cheapest VPN on offer, but it'll seem worth it when in China, for sure.

ExpressVPN

This is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of speed, reliability, outstanding customer service, and affordability. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee, so give it a shot today.

From $6.67 per month at ExpressVPN


2. Surfshark

A quality VPN that won't hit your wallet

Works in China: Yes | Unblocks Netflix: Yes | 24/7 customer support: Yes | Money back guarantee: 30 days | Also unlocks: BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited

Pros

  • Wallet-friendly
  • Easy to use
  • Reliable unblocking

Cons

  • Fewer servers than other rivals

Surfshark has its fair share of fans, due to its extremely wallet-friendly price. One of the cheapest VPN offerings currently available, its 3,200+ roster of servers make spoofing your location a breeze.

You can use the service on unlimited devices, including Windows, iOS, Mac, Android and even Linux, which is particularly handy if you're travelling with multiple devices and want to keep work and play separate.

Throw in advanced security protocols, AES-256 encryption and a kill switch in case your connection fails, and you've got a solid Firewall-busting VPN that works out to just over $2 a month. What's not to love?

Surfshark VPN

From $2.49 per month at Surfshark

You can connect as many devices as your heart desires at the same time and never worry about any of them being logged. Surfshark also offers a 30-day guarantee that you'll like the product, or it will give you your money back.


3. NordVPN

Best for the dedicated unblocking team

Works in China: Yes | Unblocks Netflix: Yes | 24/7 customer support: Yes | Money back guarantee: 30 days | Also unlocks: Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu | Streaming devices: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | Maximum devices supported: 6

Pros

  • Quick steaming access
  • Plenty of locations
  • Slick performance

Cons

  • Mobile app needs improvement

NordVPN is probably the most recognized name on this list, due to the massive amounts of cash the company has thrown at online ads. Don't let them put you off though, because it's one of the best VPN options for unlocking the internet in China.

For starters, it has an entire team dedicated to unblocking content in stricter countries like China, Iran and Saudi Arabia, which actively keeps on top of connections and bypasses any new blockage attempts.

Nearby servers in Japan and Hong Kong dish out the bonus of faster, more stable connections too, while 2,048-bit encryption, two kill switches and DNS leak protection provide even more peace of mind.

Throw in live chat, a 30-day money back guarantee, and the ability to pay anonymously by Bitcoin, and you've got one of the most private ways to remain anonymous during your visit.

NordVPN

From $3.67 per month at NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most common and biggest names in the VPN space, and it also happens to be one of the best. It offers amongst the largest number of server options and some high-quality app experiences.


4. VyprVPN

Superb all-rounder for China

Works on China: Yes | Number of servers: 700+ | Server locations: 70+ | Maximum devices supported: 30 | 24/7 live chat support: Yes

Pros

  • Chameleon security protocol
  • Fast online support
  • Consistent unblocking

Cons

  • Speeds aren't as good

Chameleon's are adorable bulgy-eyed lizards that are capable of changing the colour of their skin to better blend in with their surroundings - not to be confused with the Chameleon protocol, which is the main selling point of VyprVPN.

The tech helps bypass China's VPN blocks by scrambling OpenVPN packet metadata to protect it from more substantial levels of inspection.

With 14 servers located in Asia, you can bet on solid connections and nippy speeds too, with 24/7 live chat for sorting out any issues.

The basic plan doesn't include the fancy Chameleon protocol, and only offers three simultaneous connections. We'd recommend forking out the extra cash for the annual premium plan, which includes the Chameleon protocol. If you'd rather not pay extra, then you're better off with a cheaper, chameleon-less service.

VyprVPN

From $1.67 per month at VyprVPN

VyprVPN is another great option for those looking at affordable VPN options to use in China for access to great services. There are 14 servers located in Asia, allowing for great connection speeds and ensuring it remains reliable.


5. Hotspot Shield

Best for super-fast performances

Works in China: Yes | Number of servers: 1,800+ | Server locations: 80+ | Maximum devices supported: 5 | 24/7 live chat support: Yes

Pros

  • Rapid access
  • Plenty of servers
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Lack of flexibility

Chameleon protocol too cute and cuddly for your VPN needs? How about Catapult Hydra - Hotspot Shield's stand-out protocol which delivers exceptional speeds, even using far away server locations, making it an ideal choice for visitors from the US looking to connect back home.

Unlimited HD streaming means there's no limit to your activities, while built-in malware, phishing and identity protection offer extra security too.

The main downside is that you can only connect up to five devices per subscription, but that should be more than enough for all but the most hardcore of road warriors.

Hotspot Shield VPN

From $2.49 per month at Hotspot Shield

This is our top recommendation for those looking for a free VPN. You do need to enter your credit card number, but the company won't charge you and you can use the service for free beyond the 7-day trial.

Be sure to check out all of the best VPN deals to help save you some cash on the purchase of the best China VPN as well.



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Here's how you can customize back tap gestures on a Google Pixel phone

Google brought a really cool gesture to Pixel 5 devices on Android 12 where users can tap the back of their phones to do certain tasks. It's called Quick Tap, and you can customize it to do actions like take a screenshot or open a select app of your choosing. If you have a compatible Pixel and want to use this gesture, here's how to customize it to your liking.

How to customize back tap gestures on a Google Pixel phone

  1. Open Settings on your Pixel.
  2. Tap System.
  3. Select Gestures to locate the relevant options.

  4. Once you're in the gestures settings, tap Quick Tap .
  5. Make sure the Use Quick Tap toggle is switched on.
  6. Select the custom action of your choice from the list.

While scrolling through the Quick Tap settings, you'll notice that there's an option to require stronger taps. This can be useful if you keep triggering the gesture by accident.

Tap away

Now that you've discovered what your Pixel 5 can do, have some fun with it. Oftentimes, gestures end up being more gimmicky than functionally useful. That's not the case here. You can fully customize the Quick Tap feature to do a vast array of actions. The ability to open any app opens up a window of opportunities.

Has the excitement of customizing the Quick Tap feature piqued your interest? Check out these 10 tips and tricks for your Pixel 5 to get the most out of your phone.

The best Pixel to date

Google Pixel 5

$800 at Amazon

Premium performance

Google outdid itself with the 2020 flagship with amazing specs under the belt. The Pixel 5 gives you all you need and nothing you don't.



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Poll: Are you willing to wait to get the Wear OS 3 update?

Other Wear OS smartwatches will be upgraded long after the Galaxy Watch 4 launches.

Wear OS 3 was in a weird state of limbo for a while, which only the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 confirmed to be released with the upgrade. Now, Google has confirmed other smartwatches, current and upcoming, will eventually be updated as well. The last time we asked about upcoming Wear OS watches, our readers leaned toward the Galaxy Watch 4. So now we want to know if the recent Wear OS update news has changed anything.

As it stands, it seems that the Galaxy Watch 4 may be the only smartwatch with Wear OS 3 for a while, at least officially. There are rumors of a Google Pixel Watch, but nothing is official, and rumors are scarce. Fitbit has also indicated that it will launch a Wear OS device, but we don't know when it's expected.

Fossil has been a bit more forthcoming about its plans. The company currently makes some of the best Android smartwatches, but it seems none of them will be updated to the new version. Instead, the company will launch its Gen 6 devices later this year, hinting at "premium" models. However, they may not come with the new update at launch, as Google has indicated that its partners will "roll out the system update starting in mid to second half of 2022."

That goes for smartwatches like the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS, which is among the only current smartwatches eligible for the update. And while mid to H2 2022 sounds like a long way, Mobvoi's current smartwatches powered by the Snapdragon Wear 4100 run very smoothly and should likely see more performance and battery life gains with the new update.

It's unclear why it'll take so long to get Wear OS 3 onto other smartwatches. Still, given the more customizable nature of the update, it may give other OEMs time to adjust things to their liking while giving Samsung enough headroom for its new smartwatch. Whatever the case may be, it's good to know that you technically don't have to wait to buy a new smartwatch if you want the Wear OS 3 update.

Wear OS 3.0 confirmed

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 GPS

$300 at Amazon $270 at Walmart

The best of Wear OS

Thanks to its dual-layer display, great battery life, and super-fast chipset, the Mobvoi's TicWatch Pro 3 GPS is perhaps the best Wear OS smartwatch you can buy right now. And TicWatch Pro 3 owners can rejoice knowing that the watch will receive the upcoming Wear OS 3.0 update.



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Best YouTube VPN 2021: Unblock and stream with ease

If you've been working from home during the current global pandemic, then chances are you've been subjected to the awful realities of daytime television. From cheesy game shows to ancient reruns, lunch break viewing can fast become a rather painful experience. This is where the best YouTube VPN comes into play. It can help save the day and unblock YouTube for you quickly and easily.

Best YouTube VPN apps

1. ExpressVPN: Best overall YouTube VPN for most people

This is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of speed, reliability, outstanding customer service, and affordability. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee, so give it a shot today.

From $6.67/mo at ExpressVPN

2. IPVanish: A great balance between speed and performance

From $3.75/mo at IPVanish

IPVanish may not have the biggest numbers for stats, but the service that the company offers is reliable and fast. Getting set up takes just minutes, so start today!

3. NordVPN: Best YouTube VPN for the security-conscious

From $3.67/mo at NordVPN

NordVPN offers an insane amount of server locations that you can pick from and is one of the best services for unblocking streaming services. It's definitely the most well-known brand in the VPN space right now.


Thankfully, we've got the likes of YouTube to keep us company, with its infinite supply of videos ranging across any topic imaginable. From cat videos to in-depth scientific discussions surrounding the mysteries of the universe, there's something for everyone.

Unfortunately, YouTube's content isn't always accessible to everyone. Quite often, certain content may be blocked in different regions. If you're trying to catch up on some classic dry wit from a UK panel show in the US, for example, then you might find your path blocked by an annoying error message. This is where using one of the best VPN services can really help you out.

A VPN essentially allows you to pretend to be in another country or location, allowing you to watch videos on YouTube that would otherwise be blocked. While the legality is a gray area (and one which we aren't condoning ourselves), a lot of people do find them useful.

How does a VPN help unblock YouTube?

A VPN works by diverting your signal through a different server, which is often in another country. This gives you a different IP address, allowing you to appear as if you're on the other side of the world as an anonymous user. The end result is not only more privacy, but also unlocking access to streaming content in that country.

Ultimately, a VPN lets you access content on sites like YouTube that would otherwise be unavailable in your country. We've tested a bunch of VPN services and have rounded up five of the best below, and have a list of all the best VPN deals to help you save some cash on the service of your choice.

1. ExpressVPN

Best overall YouTube VPN for most people

Fast connections: Very | Number of servers: 3,000+ | Server locations: 160 | Maximum devices supported: 5 | Can be used with: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox

Pros

  • Lots of global servers
  • Fast speeds

Cons

  • More expensive than rivals

As VPNs work by diverting connections through different servers around the globe, they can occasionally slow things down, but some providers are far better than others. With 3,000 servers spread across 160 locations in 94 countries, ExpressVPN is one of the fastest options around, providing above-average speeds.

If security is a concern, then you're covered there too. As it's based in the British Virgin Islands, the service offers an offshore privacy connection, which means no logs of your activity. You also get DNS/IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, and split tunneling.

The main downsides are that only five simultaneous connections are supported per account, and unlike others, there's no free trial if you want to take things for a spin before forking out the cash.

Still, it's easy to set up on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and even Linux, ensuring that up to five of your main devices are covered. The annual plan offers the best bang for your buck, especially if you'll be using the service every day. Yes, it's a little more expensive than most of its rivals, but as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for.

ExpressVPN

This is our top pick for anyone looking to get started with a VPN. It offers a great mix of speed, reliability, outstanding customer service, and affordability. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee, so give it a shot today.

From $6.67 per month at ExpressVPN


2. IPVanish

A great balance between speed and performance

Fast connections: Yes | Number of servers: 1,900+ | Server locations: 75+ | Maximum devices supported: 10 | Can be used with: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux

Pros

  • Fast speeds
  • Wide range of supported devices

Cons

  • No free trial

It might not have as many global server locations as ExpressVPN, but IPVanish's roster of 75+ countries is by no means shabby, and it shows - it provides consistently fast speeds, especially if you're using a server that's close by.

The usual devices and operating systems are all supported, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and even Amazon Fire TV and Fire Sticks. IPVanish also has the bonus of providing instructions for setting up its service on Chromebooks, Linux and even routers - the latter being particularly handy if you want a blanket coverage of VPN benefits for every device in your house.

Strong encryption, a lack of logs and other security devices are all present and accounted for, and while there's no free trial, you do get a 7-day, quibble-free refund if you change your mind. Once again, the yearly plan is the most affordable option, especially if you're a heavy user.


IPVanish VPN

From $3.99 per month at IPVanish

IPVanish may not have the biggest numbers for stats, but the service that the company offers is reliable and fast. Getting set up takes just minutes, so start today!


3. NordVPN

Best YouTube VPN for the security-conscious

Fast connections: Very | Number of servers: 5,200+ | Server locations: 60+ | Maximum devices supported: 6 | Can be used with: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux

Pros

  • Great privacy features
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Mobile app could be better

If you're reading a feature about the best options for YouTube then you've probably already seen a multitude of ads for NordVPN already, as the company has thrown a ton of money into online ads for its service - especially on YouTube itself.

It can back up its claims too, offering fast, stable speeds, with extra security thrown in to boot. It's one of the most privacy-focused services available, doubling its encryption with a 2,048-bit setup, alongside two kill switches in addition to DNS leak protection.

It's one of the best choices if you're hunting for privacy and anonymity above all else, backed up by the fact that you can even opt to pay for its service anonymously using Bitcoin, for even more anonymous street cred.

With excellent speeds, live chat support, and support across multiple devices (with a 30-day money-back guarantee thrown in for good measure), NordVPN is easily one of the top picks around.

NordVPN

From $3.49 per month at NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most common and biggest names in the VPN space, and it also happens to be one of the best. It offers amongst the largest number of server options and some high-quality app experiences.


4. Speedify

Best for beginners

Fast connections: Yes | Number of servers: 200 | Server locations: 50+ | Maximum devices supported: 5 | Can be used with: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux

Pros

  • Ability to boost speeds

Cons

  • Not many subscription options

As its name suggests, Speedify is a VPN provider that focuses on delivering a solid, speedy experience for its users.

It achieves this with its 'channel-bonding' feature, which is able to create a faster, more reliable connection by combining multiple connections together — an ideal choice if you've got more than one method to get online.

Fancy speed-boosting features aside, the connections themselves are solid too, thanks to offering over 150 servers across more than 50 locations around the world. As with other VPN services on this list, Speedify is available across all of the major platforms and devices you'd expect, and its app is nicely polished too, which is a bonus.

On the privacy front, it offers ChaCha encryption and multiple VPN protocol support to help keep your data private, and won't keep any logs of your activity, for further peace of mind.

There are only two price plans available at the time of writing, but there is a 30-day money-back guarantee, alongside a free plan that offers 1GB of data use per month.

Speedify

From $4.99 at Speedify

It's a case of speed by name, speed by nature for Speedify. You also get all the great safety and security additions from other VPNs as though, so don't worry.


5. VyprVPN

Best for superfast speeds

Fast connections: Very | Number of servers: 700+ | Server locations: 70+ | Maximum devices supported: 30 | Can be used with: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux

Pros

  • Extremely fast speeds
  • Up to 30 simultaneous connections
  • Over 300,000 available IP addresses

Cons

  • No refunds

It might have bastardized the spelling of a snake's name, but don't let grammatical nitpicking put you off — this is one of the fastest VPNs money can buy, making it an ideal choice for YouTube channel surfers.

Its nippy speeds are all thanks to optimized hardware, and it'll run across all of your devices, including smart TVs and routers too. The crown jewel for privacy aficionados is the aptly-named Chameleon protocol, which aims to prevent both blocking and speed throttling. Bear in mind, however, that some logging information such as connection times does take place.

There aren't any refund options available here, although it is one of the most affordable options out there. Note that the Chameleon protocol and support for up to five devices is only available in the slightly pricier Premium plan.

VyprVPN

From $1.66 per month at VyprVPN

VyprVPN is another great option for those looking at affordable VPN options to use in China for access to great services. There are 14 servers located in Asia, allowing for great connection speeds and ensuring it remains reliable.


Can you use a free VPN to unblock YouTube?

We've covered some of the best free VPN options before, and there are a lot of great ones, but the limitations of the apps can definitely hinder your ability to unblock YouTube. Oftentimes, one of the things that free VPN providers limit is the number of server options that you can connect to, which means that you may not be able to find a server in a location that would allow you to access the service. There's also generally a pretty low data cap, so you'd only be able to watch part of a video before needing to disconnect from the VPN.

While a free VPN is good for many things, if you plan to use it for unblocking YouTube you should be considering a paid option mentioned above instead.



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