It's almost time to go fishing!
Final Fantasy XV introduced us to Prince Noctis, and the world of Eos, and the addicting minigame of fishing. While the Final Fantasy XV itself has concluded, there is definitely more to come, in the form of FFXV: Monsters of the Deep. This game will bring us back to Eos, but there aren't tons of details quite yet.
LG is hoping to make a splash just a day ahead of the IFA 2017 trade show in Berlin.
We've seen the leaks, checked all of the latest information from LG and set our expectations — it's time for the LG V30. Coming just a week after the Galaxy Note 8 was announced, and several months after the LG G6, it's more important than ever that LG get this one right. All indications are that it's going with a notably different strategy from the V20 — pushing into more of the mainstream — and that's probably a good thing. But no matter what it does, we'll see all of the details, and how LG presents them, at the event here at IFA 2017.
Now because the event is happening here in Berlin, it's going to cause some time zone issues for some of you. The 9:00 a.m. local start time means it's going to start at 3:00 a.m. ET — tough for those of you on the U.S. East Coast, but something that West Coasters may be willing to stay up for and watch at midnight.
No matter where you are, you can catch the event live above at the start time (or after the fact!), and you can bet that Android Central will have all of the news from the show as well.
Update, August 30, 2017: The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 has been announced and will soon be released. While we're confident the phone will find its way to this list, we're not adding it until it is widely available. Stay tuned for more.
See at Verizon See at AT&T See at T-Mobile See at Sprint See at Best Buy
The Galaxy S8 has slick hardware with tiny bezels that let it have a big screen in a small body, but inside it still offers everything you want: a high-end processor, lots of storage, an SD card slot, full waterproofing and a top-end camera.
Yes the fingerprint sensor is slightly awkward to use, but the GS8's iris scanner is dramatically improved to make up for it. And it only takes one look at the industry-leading display to start to forgive Samsung's decisions on the back.
Though its software can be a little overwhelming to novices, you can't argue that Samsung continues to pack in hundreds of features to a single phone, making sure there's something in here for everyone's needs. Samsung continues to take this approach of offering more more more with just a few compromises — and it continues to work.
Bottom line: The Galaxy S8 gives you piles of features in a beautiful body, and is a great choice for a wide range of potential buyers.
One more thing: Of course, you can always pay a little extra and get the larger Galaxy S8+ for a bit more screen and battery life.
Samsung's Galaxy S brand carries considerable weight in the mobile world, and the Galaxy S8 continues to both leverage that brand while also offering a fantastic overall smartphone experience that today's consumers want. Once again, Samsung took its core principles of great hardware, a top-end display, waterproofing, solid cameras and mounds of features and updated it all for 2017.
The result is a fresh design that shrinks down the display bezels and really smooths out all of the sharp edges to give you a sleek, thin phone with a really large display that doesn't feel that large. The extra-tall 18.5:9 aspect ratio comes in at 5.8-inches across on the Galaxy S8 and 6.2-inches on the Galaxy S8+, and in both cases feels quite a bit smaller than the numbers would lead you to believe.
The sleek body still packs in top-end specs, of course, starting with that magnificent Super AMOLED display and backing it up with a Snapdragon 835 or Exynos 8895, 4GB of RAM, larger 64GB of storage (plus an SD card slot), a new USB-C port and locking it all down with waterproofing. The batteries are no bigger than last year's models, but battery life hasn't taken any hit. On the other side of the hardware, there's one big downside: Samsung moved the fingerprint sensor to an awkward position on the back next to the camera, leaving you with the less-consistent and less-convenient face scanning and iris scanning instead.
Samsung continues to make phones with all of the design and features people are clamoring for.
The camera experience has actually changed more on the front than the back with a new 8MP unit that packs auto focus. But the 12MP rear camera is still no slouch — Samsung has improved its processing to get even more out of this setup, and it remains a competitor for the best overall smartphone camera out there.
The ongoing point of contention when it comes to Samsung phones is the software, and that's the same once again on the Galaxy S8. Samsung continues to put in a massive number of features without removing any from years prior, leaving you with lots of things to get in the way and confuse you when you're trying to get the basics done. On the other hand, it's hard to find someone who can't get done what they need to get done right out of the box on this phone. It truly is aimed at being relevant to as diverse a set of consumers as possible, and it succeeds on that point.
By putting up with a few of the out-of-the-box quirks and taking some time to set it up how you like it, the Galaxy S8 can do anything you want and get it done at a fast pace while looking great as well.
The Google Pixel XL does almost everything right. Its metal body is well-built and easy to grip, and its spec sheet is still capable, featuring a Snapdragon 821 and 4GB of RAM powering its 5.5-inch QHD display.
But the Pixel XL really makes its case as a great phone because Google owns both the hardware and the software. Even the best manufacturers can't achieve what Google has with its first-party powerhouse. It's fast, clean and lovely to use with Google's apps and services. The downside is the Pixel can't match the others in terms of raw features.
Then there's the camera, which continues to be one of the best in the business in so many situations, helped along by Google's exemplary electronic stabilization that gives you silky smooth video recording.
Bottom line: Google doesn't compete in the raw number of features, but offers a sleek, consistent and holistic experience that absolutely deserves praise.
One more thing: The Pixel is available unlocked through Google's store in many countries, but at this point you should keep your eye out for discount deals.
See at Verizon See at AT&T See at T-Mobile See at Sprint See at B&H
The LG G6 uses a tall 18:9 display and tiny bezels (hey, it even came out before the Galaxy S8) to give you a larger screen in a smaller body. The all-new metal-and-glass design may not be totally inspired, but it's built amazingly well and incorporates lots of little features — like waterproofing — to help it hold up over time.
All of the internal specs you expect are here, even though the battery isn't removable like its predecessors. The one downside here is regional differences: the higher-quality Quad DAC is exclusive to Asia, while wireless charging is only for the North American market.
LG's dual camera setup has returned but with a refined emphasis on the wide-angle camera so it packs the same sensor as the standard camera. The main camera takes fantastic photos to go toe-to-toe with the best of them, and the wide-angle shooter adds in something that no other phone offers.
Bottom line: This is LG's best flagship phone to date, and going a step further it's one that comes in at a notably lower price — around $500 now — than the Galaxy S8 and Google Pixel XL.
One more thing: Shop around a bit before buying, as different retailers and carriers can have varying pricing schemes.
See at Amazon See at HTC See at Sprint
HTC is back at the top competing with the big names after a few years where its flagships just weren't up to speed. The HTC U11 is a great overall phone that has followed industry trends and also executed really well on them.
When viewed from the back you get a beautiful shining glass back that's truly unique. Around front it's a bit more boring, but the 5.5-inch QHD display is strong — and the fingerprint sensor is sensibly located below the screen.
The best example of HTC turning things around is its camera — the 12MP sensor gets all the hardware right, and also has the processing to take best-in-class photos.
Internally you get all of the right stuff, with a Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB storage, a big-enough 3000mAh battery and complete waterproofing. The one thing missing? A headphone jack on the bottom.
Bottom-line: The U11 is a great all-around phone at a reasonable $650 price that should definitely be considered in the same realm as other high-end options.
One more thing: This is the only phone on this list without a headphone jack — be ready to use Bluetooth or the included USB-C adaptor.
OnePlus continues to iterate on its proven formula of offering a phone with top-end internal specs, great software and no obvious flaws for a really competitive price. The OnePlus 5 is blazing fast, has super-clean software and solid battery life.
At this discounted price you get hardware design that's rather simple, a good-but-not-great screen and a simply above-average camera — plus, it's missing waterproofing. OnePlus continues to do well with all of the basics, though.
Even at a slightly higher price of $479, the OnePlus 5 is a great deal in 2017 — especially for those who can't (or won't) spend $600+ on one of the flagship options.
Bottom-line: For a solid experience and future-proof specs for a lower price than the flagship competition, the OnePlus 5 is a great choice.
One more thing: Remember you won't get Verizon or Sprint compatibility on the OnePlus 5 — you'll have to stick to GSM/LTE networks.
For most people, the Galaxy S8 will serve as the best possible choice with its excellent design, top-end hardware, great camera and piles of software features. It's hard to go wrong with this phone, whether you're choosing the Galaxy S8 or the larger Galaxy S8+.
See at Verizon See at AT&T See at T-Mobile See at Sprint See at Best Buy
The Galaxy S8 has slick hardware with tiny bezels that let it have a big screen in a small body, but inside it still offers everything you want: a high-end processor, lots of storage, an SD card slot, full waterproofing and a top-end camera.
Yes the fingerprint sensor is slightly awkward to use, but the GS8's iris scanner is dramatically improved to make up for it. And it only takes one look at the industry-leading display to start to forgive Samsung's decisions on the back.
Though its software can be a little overwhelming to novices, you can't argue that Samsung continues to pack in hundreds of features to a single phone, making sure there's something in here for everyone's needs. Samsung continues to take this approach of offering more more more with just a few compromises — and it continues to work.
Bottom line: The Galaxy S8 gives you piles of features in a beautiful body, and is a great choice for a wide range of potential buyers.
One more thing: Of course, you can always pay a little extra and get the larger Galaxy S8+ for a bit more screen and battery life.
Update, July 2017: The Galaxy S8 stays at the top of the list. Some wording updated to better represent where in the lifecycle each of these devices lands.
Save some money while figuring out what's wrong with your car thanks to our pals at Thrifter!
No one likes seeing their check engine light pop on, and it's even worse when you don't know what the cause of it is. Sure, there are some places that will scan your car for free to tell you what's up, but most of them charge for the service. Stop throwing money away having your car scanned, and start doing it for yourself.
Right now you can pick up Kobra's Wireless ODB2 reader for just $14.39 with the coupon code 83ZIWPVF. This is a savings of nearly $6 from its regular price, and one of the best features of it is that you can connect it right to your smartphone to decipher the cards.
This is a great addition to any garage, and at just $14 it's hard to pass up. Don't get caught wishing you ordered one, and instead grab one for yourself now! There is also a Bluetooth-only option for $9.06 with coupon code 2WQM8IBW.
For more great deals be sure to check out our friends at Thrifter now!
Texas is a big state with a big heart.
We believe in helping our neighbors, in opening our doors and our hearts to anyone in need. We believe that we are stronger together, and in times like these, we know that our fellow Texans will band together to help. Whether you call the Lone Star state home or not, whether you've ever sampled the amazing cuisine at Port Aransas or dreamed of the stars at Space Center Houston, everyone has Texas in their hearts, minds, and you should have Texan beauty on your home screen, too.
Also, please donate to the Red Cross now and consider donating to the rebuilding effort that will take years.
I'm not gonna say it. I'm not gonna say it. I'm not gonna say it.
Houston's most famous and misquoted phrase is certainly apt this week, and thankfully, Space Center Houston hasn't been hit as hard as many other parts of the city. NASA's got a little cleanup to do, but thankfully one of Houston's most famous attractions will be open again before too long. This wallpaper comes from when the Space Shuttle Endeavour was flown over Houston in 2012, and it's a beautiful sight to see the shuttle over a city that means so much to and has gotten so much from the space program.
Endeavour over Houston by NASA
Keep Calm and Carry on may be a British propaganda poster, but Texas is a cultural melting pot and we take our memes from all sides. Houston, in particular, receives more refugees that some entire states, and has a vibrant multi-ethnic and LGBTQ community, and from queso to kolaches, we bask in the food and beauty of all cultures that contribute to our state. This wallpaper is also helpful because as chaotic as things have been in the last week, we could all use a reminder to breathe in, breathe out, and maybe go get a sweet tea from Sonic Happy Hour, because it's going to be a long, humid day.
Trey Ratcliff, the truly awesome photographer whose photographs have graced your Chromecasts for years, is a Texan, and while he has many, many pieces from his photo-hunting around the state, this is one of my favorite Texas pieces from him. Dallas as a city is seen as massive urban sprawl. Heck, our airport alone is bigger than Manhattan, but this doesn't mean our city is an urban jungle of concrete. This wallpaper beautifully juxtaposes the skyward spires of downtown with the colorful serenity of a flower garden and it makes me want to stop and smell the flowers more than an embankment of bluebonnets.
Dallas, Texas by Trey Ratcliff
Texas is home to a mind-boggling amount of good food, and Houston alone can make a foodie weep tears of ecstasy... and barbecue sauce, because man does Houston love her some 'cue! Harlem Road Texas BBQ calls Houston-area Richmond home, and while they're not open to guests yet, they are whipping up their best barbecue for first responders as they tend to the city and its people, which makes them more than just damn good barbecue masters: it makes them damn good Texans.
People say sunsets and sunrises are beautiful everywhere, but they're bigger and better in Texas. I mean just look at that! Highway and natural wonder as far as the eye can see! Tell me that doesn't make your heart soar. The rest of the day of driving across Texas might be a little less fun, but we can't help it if driving across our state takes hours and hours and hours. We can only put the speed limit so high, after all.
Brother makes some awesome printers, and this is one of the fastest models going for one of its lowest prices!
The Brother MFC-L2740DW monochrome all-in-one printer is down to $129.99 refurbished. This is the lowest price ever on this printer, refurb or not. It normally sells for $170, and it has dropped as low as $150.
New versions of this same model of printer sell as high as $200 or more at Amazon and Newegg.
This printer can do it all with duplex printing, scanning, copying, and even faxing for you fans of the 1980s. This particular model is one of Brother's fastest, and it can print up to 32 pieces of paper a minute. That's great for heavy loads for school, work, or even something like tax forms. It has a 2.7-inch touchscreen with easy-to-navigate menus.
My favorite feature of the Brother printer I own is how easy it is to print from mobile devices, which requires minimum setup to accomplish.
Brother offers a one-year warranty.
Being a monochrome printer already means it will go through less ink than a color printer, but even so this printer is compatible with Amazon's Dash replenishment program that will automatically order toner when it runs low (if you want it to). You can add one of these Hammermill Dash buttons to the side of it so you can easily re-order paper, too.
For more great deals be sure to check out our friends at Thrifter now!
Samsung's Gear Sport, Gear Fit2 Pro, and Icon X are all variations of designs we've seen before. The Gear Sport is an evolution of the Gear S3 Frontier, Samsung's outdoor smartwatch I reviewed last year. I didn't get as close a look at the Gear Fit2 or the Icon X earbuds – but maybe that's just as well, given how much the newer models improve upon their forebears. With MIL-STD 810G durability and 5ATM water resistance the Gear Sport and Fit2 Pro bring a strong outdoor game, while the 2018 revision of the Icon X earbuds improves battery life many times over. All that's pretty exciting stuff even for a non-athlete such as myself – and to hear Samsung tell it, that's kind of the whole idea.
Click on through to the video above to catch MrMobile going hands-on with the Samsung Gear Sport, Gear Fit2 Pro, and Icon X 2018! Then be sure to check out Android Central's own in-depth coverage, and stay tuned for much more mobile tech coming out of Berlin as IFA 2017 rolls on!
