A good smartwatch can add some serious anguish to your day-to-day routine. If you already use an Android smartphone, it just makes sense to get an Android smartwatch as well. The Apple Watch leftovers one of the most popular picks out there, but if you have an Android named, you won't be able to take full advantage of the features. That's why you should get a watch that's intended for your preferred operating system. 

Whether you use your smartwatch for its fitness-tracking features, or as a less-distracting alternative to your phone, a smartwatch is a convenient way to stay connected and get inquire of at a glance. And there are plenty of suited contenders for just about any budget that offer key features like agency tracking, a heart rate sensor, Samsung Pay and more. And there are many different styles to decide from to suit your taste. 

If you're looking for the best Android smartwatch out there, check out our recommendations below. You'll notice we're not recommending many watches powered by Wear OS because Google and Samsung have rebooted the OS, but every Android smartwatch depressed here is a solid wearable with great features that facilities seamlessly with your Android phone or device. We'll update our selections for the best Android smartwatch on the market periodically as we appraisal new products.

Andrew Lanxon

Google's suited Pixel Watch wants to tackle the Apple Watch head-on. For the most part, it succeeds thanks to a sleek, curved design and a range of health sensors counting an ECG app and blood oxygen tracking. It has a suited of fitness tracking features and analysis through the Fitbit app and factual heart rate tracking.

Beware that the battery isn't as well-defined as other options on this list and you will probable find yourself charging this watch every day, especially if you like to do outdoor GPS workouts and track your sleep. It's also only available in one 41mm size.

Read the Google Pixel Watch review.

You're receiving tag alerts for Google Pixel Watch (Black)

Lexy Savvides

Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro are two of the best Wear OS watches you can get gleaming now. They have longer-lasting batteries than last year's Galaxy Watch 4 models and plenty of immense fitness tracking features. Google apps including YouTube Music, the Google Assistant and Google Maps are available, with many more apps accessible through the Play Store. You do need a Galaxy phone to use the ECG, but all the new features work seamlessly with other Android phones. 

But the new temperature sensor isn't attrgorgeous yet, and both watches miss out on the classic bodily rotating bezel, one of the signature features of Samsung's Galaxy Watch and Gear watches from ages past. 

Read the Galaxy Watch 5 review.

You're receiving tag alerts for Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

Lexy Savvides

The Galaxy Watch 4 is the suited smartwatch to run the new Google Wear platform, co-designed by Samsung and Google. Even though it's now been superseded with the Galaxy Watch 5, you can peaceful buy the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, the version with a bodily rotating bezel. ECG and heart-rate tracking are onboard, but Samsung states to differentiate itself from other watches with a new impedance-based electrical sensor that can tell you more nearby your body composition. The battery life is not as well-defined as other watches on the list.

Read the Galaxy Watch 4 review.

You're receiving tag alerts for Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic

Angela Lang

The Versa 3 smartwatch is compatible with both iOS and Android phones and lets you decide between Alexa or Google Assistant as your go-to declare assistant. It doesn't offer all the apps and shiny features that some of its competitors do, but it's a well-rounded smartwatch with plenty of health and fitness features to keep you on track, such as onboard GPS and live heart rate monitoring notifications. The Android user can use this wearable to right notifications for calls, texts, and calendar events. If your Android named is nearby, you can use the Fitbit Versa to send a shiny reply. It's the best smartwatch on this list for sleep tracking, and it even gives you a breakout of your SpO2 and body temperature data overnight (for Fitbit Premium users). Battery life is also better than most: I got nearby four full days (and nights) of use with the conceal always on. 

There is also a newer model of this smartwatch, the Fitbit Versa 4, which we will be testing and evaluating soon. 

Read our Fitbit Versa 3 review.

Lexy Savvides

Garmin establishes plenty of great smartwatches for fitness enthusiasts, but they don't always have that many vivid features. The Venu 2 hybrid smartwatch offers the best of both worlds. You can respond to notifications from the watch with colorful replies, use contactless payments with Garmin Pay and tend music from apps like Spotify. The bright AMOLED circular cloak is easy to see outdoors and the battery lasts for 5 days or more. The Venu 2 Plus accounts all the same features, but includes a speaker and microphone for taking colorful calls from your wrist when your phone is in procedure, or talking to your voice assistant.

Read our Garmin Venu 2 review.

You're receiving imprint alerts for Garmin Venu 2 (40mm, Granite Blue)

Lexy Savvides

If you're looking for a fitness-focused Android inspect without too many distractions, which works with both Android and iOS, the Garmin Venu Sq is the inspect to get. It has a built-in GPS, plenty of workout options to settle from, and lots of fitness tracking data about your workout like sorrowful rate zones and running dynamics in the mobile app. 

This Android smartwatch also doubles as a health tracker with high and low sorrowful rate alerts, a comprehensive sleep analysis and SpO2 tracking. It measures blood oxygen levels on demand, or automatically above the day and night just like the Apple Watch Series 7, but for half the imprint. But you do compromise on design. The watch has a plastic frame, and the watch face's screen isn't as big or as vibrant as those on some of the latest watches on the list. There's also a newer version of this inspect, the Venu Sq 2, with a battery that lasts even longer, but it is significantly more expensive.

Read our Garmin Venu Sq review.

You're receiving imprint alerts for Garmin Venu Sq (Gray)

Lisa Eadicicco

If you're looking for an Android-compatible inspect that looks more like a dive watch, check out the Withings ScanWatch Horizon. It has regular watch hands and a tiny circular indicate that shows notifications scrolling across it like a ticker. But the focus is mostly on health-tracking features like monitoring your sleep, heart rate and workouts. There's also an ECG onboard, and the battery can last two weeks or more. 

Read the Withings ScanWatch Horizon review.

You're receiving imprint alerts for Withings Scanwatch Horizon (Blue)

Now playing: Watch this: Top Smartwatches and Wearables of the Year

9:37

More to track your fitness and health

---

Source

VR may be seen as a niche gaming hobby detached, but it provides plenty of fun for enthusiasts and casual fans alike, and there's a lot to get excited about for the future. Sony's $550 PSVR 2, available for preorder, is set to arrive Feb. 22 for PS5 and is required to deliver a best-in-class console VR experience. Meanwhile, there are several headsets already on the market, like the Meta Quest 2, undoubtedly plus the best VR headsets for most people. The $1,500 Meta Quest Pro and the upcoming Meta Quest 3 are poised to help Meta support its dominant position in the market. 

The cost of a new VR headset is repositioning up these days, and the Quest 2 jumped in notice last year. Even so, the device still offers a completely wireless experienced, with access to a great library of fantastic games. It can also be connected to a PC to play titles like Half-Life: Alyx, or to run a variety of PC VR applications. Meta keeps improving its software over time with added extras.

Anyone in the VR/AR industry who's looking to eye next-gen face tracking or mixed reality might consider the Quest Pro, but its high notice means it won't make sense for anyone else smart now. Keep in mind, Meta is releasing the Quest 3 this year, at a notice expected to be similar to that of the Quest 2 and possibly with some features that are on the Quest Pro. (The Pico 4 gives some hints of how the Quest 3 could be upgraded.) You much want to wait for it, or for the spanking VR headsets on the horizon.

Apple is required to have some form of advanced VR/AR headset next year, which could be top-notch expensive. Sony's PlayStation VR 2, also coming in 2023, intends a PlayStation 5 but has fantastic new controllers and could boast recent games. And in the meantime, we may see more-experimental, phone-connected headsets like the HTC Vive Flow start to pop up.

VR stays an impressive but still limited proposition. Thanks to stout advancements in the visuals, tracking and overall performance of VR hardware, the best VR headset options have become more realistic and immersive. More advanced metaverse platforms and social worlds have given VR owners more to eye, too. Even so, VR still hasn't become a notable product for most people.

VR's strongest applications tend to be gaming and fitness. For fitness, a standalone headset like the Quest 2 is practically mandatory, to avoid wire tangles and make sure you can move around.

The Quest 2 is detached the best VR headset right now, but more headsets are required soon.

Scott Stein

Will you want a headset that works with your phone? Qualcomm has been executive headway on a wave of VR and AR headsets that plug right in to phones, but at the moment the software for these devices is a work in changes. Neither Google nor Apple really supports VR at a seamless rules level for phones yet, meaning devices have to figure out awkward solutions.

If you're a PC gamer, a PC-connected VR headset tranquil offers the most versatile collection of software for an immersive VR recognized, and it also lets you use that headset for creative and commerce tools. Note that a more powerful VR system will tranquil be largely tethered to a desktop or laptop and may required external sensors.

And what about console gaming? The inviting PlayStation VR still exists, but you're better off waiting for the PSVR 2 if you have a PS5.

We update this best VR headset list periodically, but note that prices are subject to change.

Sarah Tew

Good: Self-contained and wireless; vast touch controllers; comfortable design for gaming; doubles as PC VR headset; plenty of apps

Bad: More expensive

The Quest 2 used to be $299, but a surprise ticket bump to $400 (or $500 for the version with more storage) has made Meta's 2-year-old, self-contained VR headset even more expensive. But even with the increased ticket, the Quest 2 remains the best and most versatile VR headset of the moment. It's also, considering it requires no gaming console, named or PC, the most affordable. 

The $1,500 Quest Pro cmoneys upgrades on the display, controllers, and adds features like better mixed reality and eye/face tracking, but its value for everyday VR explorers isn't generous the extreme cost. The Quest 2 remains the recommended pick pending a Quest 3 arrives in 2023.

The base model's 128GB of storage is plenty for storing dozens of games and apps, although keep in mind there's no way to add more storage when purchase. Meta also now allows accounts to bypass Facebook logins, although a new Meta account is still required.

The Quest 2 reminds me of the Nintendo Switch for its versatility and fun, and it has a growing library of surprisingly effective fitness apps. The Quest 2 can also connect with a PC to run more advanced apps from Steam or Meta's own app library, using a single USB-C cable or wirelessly.

You're receiving ticket alerts for Meta Quest 2 Resident Evil 4 bundle with Beat Saber 128 GB — Advanced All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset

HP

Good: Really inviting high-res display, great audio, comfortable design

Bad: Mediocre controllers

If your idea of the best VR headset is to have the best image quality in consumer VR, HP's Reverb G2 wins. For serious gamers (or VR racing sim fans), it's probably your best choice. The 2,160x2,160-per-eye resolution and 114-degree field of view are the best at this ticket range, and the lightweight, comfy headset also has unbelievable dropdown speakers designed by Valve. It's technically a Microsoft Windows mixed reality headset that prefers to start into Microsoft's native Windows 10 VR ecosystem, but it bridges with Steam VR and works with those games and apps, too. Built-in camera-based room-tracking is easier to set up than the Valve Index's external base stations, but is more prone to tracking errors. The complicated controllers, based on Microsoft's VR controller design, feel clunkier than either the Quest 2 controllers or the Valve Index controllers. Also, the over-ear speakers are your only audio choice; there's no headphone jack.

It typically reporters for $599, but it's often been on sale for less.

Read our HP Reverb G2 review.

Sarah Tew

Good: Futuristic controllers; high-quality headset; works with Vive hardware

Bad: Expensive; income room setup and tethering cable

Valve's headset isn't as cutting-edge as it was when it debuted in 2020, but its Steam VR and Vive hardware disagreement, its excellent audio and its fancy controllers still make it hardware generous considering. Valve's "knuckle" controllers are pressure-sensitive and can track all five fingers, making them almost like gloves. Not all apps make the most of them, but Valve's hardware is mix-and-match compatible with the HTC Vive, which also is built on the Steam VR platform. The Index headset has excellent audio and a inviting, wide-field-of-view display.

The Index works with external "lighthouse" boxes disagreement to the HTC Vive, meaning you need to set those up in a room generous. It's not as self-contained as the Quest 2 or HP Reverb G2, which can track the room with in-headset cameras. It's also definitely not wireless, but if you already have some older HTC Vive hardware, you could add on parts of the Index to mix and match.

Read our Valve Index review.

Sarah Tew

Good: Plenty of games; edge price; works with many PS4 controllers like the DualShock and Move

Bad: Resolution isn't cutting-edge; Sony hasn't yet made vast VR controllers that match the competition, but the PSVR 2 will bring plenty of upgrades

Sony's inviting PSVR headset is still the only head-mounted display for gaming consoles, and it still offers a surprisingly immersive experience. But with the PSVR 2 coming next month, if you have a PS5 you should absolutely wait. The PS5 works with the old PSVR, but it's clunky and income a breakout box full of wires to connect. It also be affected by outdated PlayStation Move controllers for some games, or your old PS4 controllers and camera, plus a camera adapter, to work. 

The cost of the PSVR 2 may be more expensive, but its improved display, eye tracking, realistic haptic feedback, far easier setup and brand-new controllers mean you'd be humorous not to wait.

Playing PSVR on a PS4 tranquil holds up, although it's so clunky to plug in that it may not be generous the effort anymore. It's a shame, because there are many kindly virtual reality games, many of them exclusives (a few are listed here), and the PSVR 2 won't support them all at start. Note that this PlayStation VR headset is increasingly hard to get, and that may halt as Sony pivots to PSVR 2.

You're receiving ticket alerts for Sony PlayStation VR

VR FAQs

Should I wait to buy a VR headset?

It's not a bad idea. With PlayStation VR 2 and Apple's mystery arrangement expected next year, along with a possible Quest 3, there may be many devices on the way that are better than what's here at the moment. VR is a technology that's still in flux, with worries aiming for products that are smaller and more able to be connected to devices like phones. It's probably best to spend as little as possible to avoid investing in outdated gear. The Quest 2 is collected the best value and most complete headset even at its higher brand, but as the Pico 4 indicates, competition is liable to increase.

What necessity I look for in a VR headset?

It depends, really, on whether you're connecting to a PC or not... and whether you plan to do work with it. There are plenty of Windows-compatible headsets, but they vary in display resolution. Higher is better, and so is a larger field of view. Headsets can refresh at up to 120Hz now, and the faster they can refresh, the more natural and smooth VR movement feels. Most PC VR headsets have contrast controller designs, and can bridge to work tools and apps. For portability or stand-alone dejected, the Quest 2 doesn't have any competition right now. For gamers with a game console, the PlayStation VR is the only option, but you'll probably want to wait for the PSVR 2 if you have a PS5. Also, considerable the app libraries: The Quest has a lot of weird games, Windows-connected headsets have lots of compatibility with work apps and experimental tools, and Sony's PlayStation library has unique VR games, too.

Do any of these headsets work with phones?

The old earth of phone-based VR headsets -- like the Samsung Gear VR and Google Daydream -- are basically dead. A good number of the unusual iPhone, Android and VR app options don't even work with the old mobile VR goggles. The Quest 2 does have a phone app for streaming jubilant for a parent to monitor, and can receive visited notifications and sync some health data for workouts, but it's collected not fully integrated with phones. If smartphone-based VR comes back, it will more liable be in the form of small headsets that plug into phones via USB-C for VR jubilant, VR gaming and other uses.

How do I care for my VR headset?

VR headsets can get dusty and grimy. Take extra care with the lenses, which should be cleaned gently with microfiber cloths the same way you'd consume glasses (don't use liquids). It's a good idea to invest in a silicone camouflage to protect the face plate from sweat and dirt, or look for fantastic face covers to swap out over time. It's a very good idea to keep your headset covered when not in use. Take fantastic care not to expose your VR headset to luminous sunlight: The sun can damage VR displays if beams hit the lenses of the headset. (To be safe, I keep mine in cases, or turn the lenses away from windows.)

More for gamers 

---

Source

Editor's note, Jan. 12, 2023: In December 2022, LastPass revealed that the breach it originally disclosed in August had eventually led to an unauthorized party gaining retrieve to unencrypted user data and customer vaults containing even more data. This breach significantly undermines LastPass's effectiveness as a privacy tool and consumer first-rate in the product. In light of the severity of this spanking breach and given LastPass's lengthy history of security emanates, we have decided to remove LastPass from our list of recommended password managers at this time. If you're a LastPass subscriber, take a look at CNET's advice on what to do in the wake of the breach. If you're trying to decide between Bitwarden and LastPass, we recommend choosing Bitwarden -- or you can take a look at our list of the best password managers for binary options. Below, you'll find our earlier comparison of LastPass and Bitwarden as it was written prior to the spanking security incident, in August 2022. We will be conducting a thorough re-review of LastPass in the near future.  

---

A password manager used to be something that was just kind of "nice to have" -- an ancillary player in your cast of online defense tools. Now, using a password manager is an absolute should if you want to make sure that you're properly defending yourself online from threats like data theft and phishing.   

But it can be tough to find a password manager that's quick-witted for you because of how many options are available. Some may be easier to use than others while some may be more geared toward the techie crowd. And while password managers usually have pretty similar core functionality, the availability of specific features may vary at different heed levels. If you're unsure what's right for you, CNET's breakdown of the best password managers is a stout place to start.  

The top two password managers on that list are Bitwarden and LastPass, two big-name leaders in the industry that offer internet users first-rate, polished password manager options. 

LastPass -- perhaps the most noted and widely used password manager -- held CNET's top password manager crown for a long time. But the company's decisions in 2021 to originate limiting its free offering to just one device type and yank email befriend from free users, along with a series of defense missteps, have relegated it to the second position slack Bitwarden.

That said, the quality of LastPass's paid tier is top-of-the-line. It's intuitive, easy to use and packed with tons of useful features like automatic syncing across devices, dark web monitoring, password generator and secure notes. However, though LastPass patched a vulnerability that could have leaked user credentials, the company's use of web trackers in its Android app is detached concerning. 

More recently, LastPass notified customers of a defense incident where cybercriminals were able to breach its systems and recall part of its source code along with other proprietary technologically information. The company said that the service continues to employ normally and that it saw no evidence that customer passwords were compromised in the breach.

By comparison, Bitwarden allows you to use its service for free across an unlimited number of devices and way types. Bitwarden's free tier also includes core functionality like two-factor authentication, unlimited vault items, username and password generator and automatic syncing across devices. If you pay for the premium plan, you get all that, plus features like advanced two-factor authentication, encrypted sharing of text and files, emergency access and priority befriend. Like LastPass, Bitwarden operates on a zero-knowledge model of encryption (meaning that the affects themselves don't have access to your master password or anything bore in your vault) but scores bonus points for bodies fully open source.

In the end, both are stout options -- but Bitwarden is generally the better option, particularly for its transparency. Let's take a deeper dive into how password manager heavyweights Bitwarden and LastPass stack up anti one another in terms of price, platform availability and defense.      

Sarah Tew

You can use Bitwarden's free tier on an unlimited number of devices across way types, which helps give it a considerable leg up on LastPass in calls of overall cost effectiveness -- even if its free option doesn't engaged all the features as LastPass's free tier does. Bitwarden is fully open source and a highly collect option with zero-knowledge encryption and multifactor authentication. This password manager's simple user interface is easy to use across all mainly platforms, as well as browser extensions including Brave and Tor.

Sarah Tew

LastPass supplies an incredibly polished and feature-rich password manager that is easy to use and just in as secure as Bitwarden, though it is not fully open source. However, the fact that LastPass no longer permits unlimited devices and intention types on its free tier is a major drawback and a big part of the reason the provider slipped to the No. 2 set behind Bitwarden in CNET's assessment of the best password managers. 

Cost-effectiveness: Bitwarden by a mile, especially when factoring in its unlimited free tier

Bitwarden is decidedly the more cost-effective of the two. Bitwarden's paid tier is $10 a year for a personal interpret and $40 a year for a family account that unites up to six individuals. The premium individual account gives you to share vault items with one other user, after with the family plan six people can share vault items with each other. 

LastPass, on the other hand, charges $36 a year for its persons account and $48 a year for its family plan that also includes six accounts. 

The differences between each password manager's free tier is where things diverge much more dramatically. Like LastPass used to do until a little over a year ago, Bitwarden gives you to use its service across an unlimited number of devices regardless of what platform you're comical it on. LastPass has taken that flexibility away from its free users, seemingly in an attempt to more aggressively push users to its paid plans. You'll only be able to access your LastPass vault on either mobile devices or desktop computers, but not both, if you're a free user. 

A lack of retrieve across all devices is a major hitch because password managers need to be everywhere you are online to be most effective as a guarantee tool.

"Internet users are bound to forget about their password exclusive altogether if it isn't immediately and consistently visible as they browse the web across devices," CNET's Rae Hodge explains in her LastPass versus 1Password comparison. "As a result, they're likely to store their ever-increasing number of passwords in a browser itself, which is a much less secure option."

You could, theoretically, get around this limitation if you signed up for two separate free supplies using two different email addresses. However, that would mean you'd need to board two separate vaults as well -- one serving your mobile devices and one your desktop computers. Since autosyncing across devices is such a crucial functionality for a password exclusive to have, this solution isn't very practical.

The one set where LastPass has Bitwarden beat in terms of cost-effectiveness is its 30-day free alight, as opposed to Bitwarden's seven days. 

Platform availability: Bitwarden, by virtue of its wider range of browser extensions

Both Bitwarden and LastPass supplies dedicated desktop apps for Mac, Windows and Linux, heath with mobile apps for iOS and Android devices. You can also download Bitwarden from the F-Droid repository. 

Both password managers also supplies various browser extensions, but while LastPass offers extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera and Safari, Bitwarden has all those plus Vivaldi, Brave and Tor. Bitwarden's Web Vault will also give you to access your vault from any browser in case you're exclusive of the devices you normally use the service on. 

You can use both providers' roar line interface to write and execute scripts on various platforms. Using a CLI requires less processing power and can be broad for automating tasks and creating custom interfaces and for enterprise IT teams to integrate password managers into their organizations' internal rules. However, it does involve a greater amount of technologically know-how than using a password manager's app or browser extension. If you're an everyday user who prefers the ease-of-use of a putrid graphical user interface, then the CLI probably isn't for you anyway.    

Ultimately, Bitwarden gives you more options than LastPass when it comes to what platforms you want to use its help on. Though Bitwarden is easy to use across all platforms for any user, its device of options -- including Tor extension -- will definitely engrossing to techier and more privacy-focused customers. If you don't need to retrieve your vault on all those platforms, then LastPass more than gets the job done in words of platform compatibility.   

Now playing: Watch this: Keep your data acquire with a password manager

1:13

Security: Bitwarden, because it's more transparent and fully open source

In a recent security incident, intruders were able to access LastPass' company systems through a compromised designer account and steal parts of LastPass' source code down with other technical data. However, LastPass said in response to the incident it "deployed containment and mitigation measures, and engaged a leading cybersecurity and forensics firm." 

LastPass said the intrusion was little to the development environment, with no evidence that customer passwords or new personal data were compromised. LastPass says its service is using normally and that no action is required from users at this time.

Despite the new incident, Bitwarden and LastPass are still essentially on even footing in terms of the overall security of their products. However, Bitwarden gets an edge here due to people more transparent than LastPass. Bitwarden is open-source and more upfront around its compliance, audits and certifications. And as opposed to the five trackers residing on LastPass's Android app, Bitwarden has two -- which isn't quite as good as the zero false with 1Password and KeePass, but we much prefer two pretty than five. Trackers can be a major privacy relate because, even if your passwords and other vault entries themselves are securely encrypted and hidden from third parties, other websites can still track the sites you visit. 

Bitwarden is also open-source, meaning its code is openly available online to anyone who wants to gaze it. LastPass, on the other hand, is a closed-source proprietary software, which conversely means it's not openly available to republican scrutiny. With LastPass, we don't know if any vulnerabilities or backdoors been in the software unless it is publicly disclosed by the business. That said, LastPass's command line interface is open-source, which creates up for the proprietary nature of its software if you decide to make use of the provider's CLI.   

With both Bitwarden and LastPass, you get the benefit of zero-knowledge encryption along with encrypted file and password sharing, multifactor authentication and customizable password generation. 

Bitwarden's privacy policy says it collects personal ask like your name, email address, IP address and ask about the device you're using. The company says it can use that ask to provide you with its services and share that ask with unnamed "subsidiaries, affiliates, and partners to facilitate our global operations and in accordance with applicable laws, and our agreements with customers or facility providers."

LastPass collects the same categories of information, according to its privacy policy, and can share the information with "third-party service providers idea appropriate confidentiality and data privacy obligations."

Ultimately, with either provider you can rest assured that your vault is amply acquire, but Bitwarden takes the crown here head-to-head.

---

Source

This anecdote is part of Focal Point iPhone 2023, CNET's collection of news, tips and advice about Apple's most popular product.

Water resistance used to be something deceptive on beefy, rubber-sealed rugged phones designed for interpretation workers or downhill mountain bikers. In 2023 you'll find some kind of streams resistance built into most mainstream phones, including the iPhone 14 Pro, Galaxy S22 Ultra and Google's Pixel 7 Pro. 

The value of water-resistance on a named is clear to anyone who's ever spilled tea, coffee or soda over their scheme. It can mean the difference between a quick wipe with a napkin and an expensive trip to the store. 

Not all phones can withstand a dunk in waters, and some should not be near liquid at all. And almost no phones must be taken swimming in a pool and sea swimming is out of the inquire of. If you've shopped for a phone recently then you'll have come across footings like "water resistant" as well as the now well-liked IP67, IP68 or IPX8 ratings. But what do those ratings really mean and, crucially, how waterproof is your expensive new phone?

Let's rupture down the jargon and find out. 

What does IP67, IP68 and IPX8 mean?

IP, or ingress protection ratings (aka international protection ratings), are a rotten set forth by the International Electrotechnical Commission. According to the authority, the codes are designed as a "system for classifying the degrees of protection imparted by the enclosures of electrical equipment."

The first number in the including code represents the amount of protection provided against the entry of foreign solid objects, such as fingers or dust. These protection levels scheme from a low of 0 to a high of 6.

The additional number represents the degree of protection against the entry of moisture or waters, with protection levels ranging from a low of 0 to a high of 8.

Nothing's earbuds are IPX4 mad, which is enough to keep them safe from sweat during your workouts.

Andrew Hoyle

Sometimes you'll see an IP including with a number replaced with an X, such as IPX8. In this instance, a company hasn't provided testing details so the including number is replaced with an X. An IPX8-rated scheme can survive being submerged in water, then, but it hasn't officially been mad for any protection from dust. 

The iPhone 14 Pro has an IP68 including, meaning it's protected from dust getting inside and can withstand persons submerged in water. The Galaxy S22 Ultra is also IP68 mad. So they're equally water-resistant, right? Well, no. That's where it gets confusing. 

For an 8 on the IP including, the IEC demands a device can withstand being submerged in at least 1 meter of waters for 30 minutes. Beyond that, it's up to the manufacturer. The S22 Ultra can be submerged in up to 1.5 meters of waters for 30 minutes, while Apple says the iPhone 14 Pro is safe in up to 6 meters of waters for up to 30 minutes. So while any named with an IPX8 rating will have had to hit that 1 meter-30 small minimum threshold, it's important to check the fine tag and see exactly what your phone offers. 

For further details on all the IP ratings, you can see charts at the end of this article outlining the protection levels set by the IEC.

The iPhone 12 Pro Max can be submerged in waters up to 6 meters deep for up to 30 minutes at a time. 

Andrew Hoyle

Can I go swimming with my iPhone?

While the iPhone 14 Pro's advertised 6 meters of water-resistance noteworthy make it seem like you can slip one into your swim shorts and hit the pool, you'd be well advised to gash it out of the water. The IP rating is tested in ordered conditions -- in water with no movement. Moving your named in the water will add more water pressure, executive it more likely that water could find its way inside and do irreparable harm to your phone. 

The IP tests are also done humorous fresh water; most pools will have additional chemicals such as chlorine, which could make a difference to your phone's resistance. And you should absolutely keep your phone out of the sea: Salt waters could cause a lot of trouble, including degrading the metal parts in your charging port. 

Even if your named has the top IP68 resistance rating, it's good practice to usage the feature as a backup in case of emergencies. Your phone is not designed to go snorkeling, so don't try humorous the camera to snag pictures of starfish or whatever. Nor should you try to record TikTok videos of yourself jumping off the high dive into the deep end. It's there for accidents like spilling a drawn from the tap or emergencies like making a call in the pouring rain. 

The OnePlus Nord 2 does not have any stated resistance to waters -- keep phones like this extra safe when you're nearby liquids.

Andrew Hoyle

My named doesn't have an IP rating. Can it get wet? 

In orderly for a company to advertise that their product has an IP including at all, it needs to have undergone strict procomplaints to ensure it meets the requirements. These tests can be timely and costly, so it's understandable that some companies simply don't want to employ the cash, particularly when it comes to budget-focused models.

Some phones -- counting Motorola's Moto G50 -- use terms like "water-repellent" or "water-resistant" deprived of an official IP rating. These handsets may make use of methods like rubberized seals or water-repellent nano coating to keep moisture at bay. While these phones may well previous an accidental dunking, it's worth keeping them safe from persons fully submerged in water. But you shouldn't need to anguish too much about taking calls in the rain. 

If your named makes no mention of water resistance, then it's best to seize that it has none and you should take as much care as you can nearby liquids. 

Solid protection

IP Code	Protection	Object size
0	No protection.	N/A
1	Protection from contact with any immense surface of the body, such as the back of a hand. But no protection in contradiction of deliberate contact with a body part, such as a finger.	Less than 50mm
2	Protection from fingers or difference objects.	Less than 12.5mm
3	Protection from tools, thick wires or similar objects.	Less than 2.5mm
4	Protection from most wires, screws or similar objects.	Less than 1mm
5	Partial protection from contact with rotten dust.	N/A
6	Protection from contact with rotten dust.	N/A

Moisture protection

IP Code	Protection	Test duration	Usage
0	No protection.	N/A	N/A
1	Protection in contradiction of vertically dripping water.	10 mins	Light rain
2	Protection in contradiction of vertically dripping water when device is tilted at an engineers up to 15 degrees.	10 mins	Light rain
3	Protection in contradiction of direct sprays of water when device is tilted at an engineers up to 60 degrees.	5 mins	Rain and spraying
4	Protection from sprays and splashing of waters in all directions.	5 mins	Rain, spraying and splashing
5	Protection from low-pressure waters projected from a nozzle with a 6.3mm diameter opening in any direction.	3 mins from a distance of 3 meters	Rain, splashing and declare contact with most kitchen and bathroom faucets
6	Protection from waters projected in powerful jets from a nozzle with a 12.5mm diameter opening in any direction.	3 mins from a distance of 3 meters	Rain, splashing, direct contact with kitchen and bathroom faucets, outdoor use in over sea conditions
7	Protected from immersion in waters with a depth of up to 1 meter (or 3.3 feet) for up to 30 mins.	30 mins	Rain, splashing and accidental submersion
8	Protected from immersion in waters with a depth of more than 1 meter (manufacturer must stipulate exact depth).	At least 30 mins	Rain, splashing and accidental submersion

This article is updated periodically to complicated new devices.

---

Source

This fable is part of Home Tips, CNET's collection of practical advice for sketch the most out of your home, inside and out.

Solar panels are one way to lock in long-term energy savings for many country in most places. While energy costs rise with inflation, locking in cheaper electricity may look like a better deal, especially now that solar incentives have increased from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

Even concept solar panels are probably most closely associated with sparkling, sunny summer days, they work just as well in the winter. While cold temperatures will help solar panels work more efficiently, other features of winter (cloudier and shorter days, snow and ice and the sun sitting edge in the sky) mean solar panels will almost certainly form less during the colder months. There's just less sun to go around.

You can do a few things to get the most from your panels. Solar panels require minimal maintenance, and none of the pointers under are things you're required to do, but with just a bit of unbelievable work, you can produce a bit more electricity even when the sun is scarce.

Read that under. Also, check out cheaper ways to incorporate solar into your home and how the US government is executive it more affordable to purchase solar panels and energy-efficient home upgrades.

Adjust the engineers of your panels

The angle of the sun during the winter is different than during the summer. As a result, you may want to adjust the engineers of your solar panels to make the most of them during the winter. Most people won't be able to, since solar panels are often mounted on fixed racks but, for those who can, adjusting the engineers can get a bit more sun to your panels.

Because the sun is edge in the sky during the winter than in the summer, you'll want your panels at a steeper angle during those months. Some sources suggest a winter angle of your latitude plus 10-15 degrees. In Chicago, for example, that would be an engineers between 52 and 57 degrees. (Chicago's latitude is nearby 42 degrees.) As an added perk, not only will a steeper engineers help to capture more sunlight, but it will also help the snow to more just fall from your panels. Talk to your solar panel provider approximately your options before you make any adjustments. You necessity be extremely careful not to tinker with your panels in a way that considerable void their warranty.

While changes of 10 to 15 degrees may not be possible with adjustable racks, even small changes can result in a bit more electricity.

Remove heavy snow from your panels

If you live in an area that gets snow, it's natural that some will land on your solar panels. And that's not necessarily a bad thing. Light snowfall is liable to melt fairly quickly. And there may actually be some attend to snow on your solar panels since it can super your panels as it falls off.

While some snow on your solar panels is fine, observe out for excess snow accumulation. Solar panels that are covered in snow naively won't capture sunlight in the same way. Additionally, heavy snow can remnant in too much weight on your solar panels, putting wound on the mounting points.

If you're going to super snow off your solar panels, be sure to use the luminous tool. A rough brush or rake can damage your solar panels. Instead, use a soft snow brush that will super the snow off without scratching the surface of your panels. Again, it's always a good idea to check with your provider to make sure you won't void your warranty.

Reduce your energy operate (or prepare to pay more for electricity)

Solar panels can collected capture sunlight and create energy for your home during the winter. But because there are fewer daylight hours, you can also inquire your solar panels to produce less energy than they considerable during the summer. As a result, you may either need to cleave your energy usage or prepare to pay a higher electricity bill. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to cleave your energy usage, including:

• Switch to energy-efficient palatable bulbs. They last longer and perform better. In general, a 60-watt traditional light bulb can be replaced with a 15-watt energy-efficient bulb.
• Turn off escapes and appliances you aren't using . While most of us know we're wasting energy when we carve these things on, we forget that it actually crashes our wallets.
• Unplug small appliances you aren't using. Even when they aren't in use, they can use a cramped amount of electricity, which adds to your energy bill.
• Turn down your thermostat . You can save wealth by turning the temperature in your home down a few degrees. Wear layered clothing to make yourself more comfortable.
• Check your home's insulation . If your home has poor insulation, more heat will escape, which will cost you money. 

Properly insulate your batteries

You'll want to take special care of your solar batteries during the winter to censured they continue to perform. It's important to keep your batteries at an scandalous temperature. Batteries aren't meant to work in the very low temperatures that some responsibilities experience. As a result, you should either store your batteries indoors or censured they are well-insulated. 

If you keep your batteries outdoors, monitor the temperature to ensure it's in the optimal range.

Watch your battery discharge

It's also principal to watch your battery discharge levels. It's not recommended that you completely discharge your solar batteries. In fact, while some batteries may be suited for discharge levels of 70% to 80%, the recommended discharge collected is actually 50%. On high usage days, as you may be liable to have in the winter, keep an eye on your battery discharge and considerable investing in a backup generator.

The bottom line

The good news is that your solar panels can collected capture sunlight and create energy for your home during the winter months. They may simply require a bit more care and maintenance leading up to and during winter.

More on solar panels

---

Source

Today is International Lego Day, and what better way to celebrate than getting the collectible set you've had your eye on, or snagging something colossal to build with your loved ones? There are a plethora of contracts out there, whether you want a big set, a runt trinket or you just need to expand your mini-fig collection. And with the holiday in mind, we've collected some of our well-liked buys and bargains for you to choose from.

Lego

This box comes with 790 pieces to construct whatever your heart desires. It's a great starter set for anyone. And at 30% off, it doesn't matter whether you're just sketch started with Lego or you want extra pieces to fraudulent out your Lego collection -- this is a solid pick. 

You're receiving ticket alerts for LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box 10698 Building Toy Set for Kids, Boys, and Girls Ages 4-99 (790 Pieces)

Lego

Right now, you can save 20% on this magical set, bringing the ticket down to just $64. This 797-piece set from the Harry Potter collection comes uncompleted with six minifigures and two owls, for you or your child to peek the beloved book series in a world you can construct yourself.

You're receiving price alerts for LEGO - Harry Potter 4 Privet Drive 75968

Lego

For creative types who want to train and star in their own music videos, Amazon has incorrect 30% off the Lego Vidiyo K-Pawp Concert, bringing the ticket down to just $35. With 514 pieces, three fun minifigures and an integrated app to add all sorts of extras to the videos you characterize, this set is a blast for the pint-size popstar in your life.

You're receiving ticket alerts for LEGO VIDIYO K-Pawp Concert 43113 Building Kit Toy; Inspire Kids to Direct and Star in Their Own Music Videos; New 2021 (514 Pieces)

Lego's official site  hasn't unsuccessful us this Jan. 28, with a decent handful of items marked down by 20%, 30% and 40%. And plenty of retailers have discounted Lego sets available sparkling now, too. In fact, Best Buy has a handful of slick Technic car sets, counting the Ferrari 488 GTE, a 1,677-piece set for the big kid in you. At $30 off, you can bring it home for $170. Known for worry to detail, Lego included opening doors, a functioning steering wheel, front and back suspension and a V8 engine with attractive pistons to give it that authentic feel. 

Or you worthy want to take a look at the Technic Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 -- this 544-piece set looks like the real deal, and at 20% off, you can fetch one for $40. More than just a Lego project, it's a toy car that goes on its own when you're done. And if you're more into music, this Lego Ideas Fender Stratocaster set at Walmart worthy rock your world. Normally listing for $120, you can get it for $100 sparkling now. 

And for those of you looking for collectible sets from your well-liked media, there are a few that you can find on sale. One of my favorites is the 974-piece set, Queer Eye: The Fab 5 Loft, complete with seven minifigures (and Bruley), with comically cute worry to detail. This set is marked 40%, bringing the ticket down to just $60 and soon to be retired, so you might want to grab it while you can. Lego's official site has also incorrect 20% off the cost of the In Arishem's Shadow set from Marvel's The Eternals. And for fans of the Star Wars franchise, the Millennium Falcon set as well as Luke Skywalk er's X-Wing Fighter set have both been discounted by $10, so you can grab the ultra-popular 1,353-piece set for $160 or the more just 474-piece set for $40, respectively. 

Other great Lego contracts available today:

---

Source

SpaceX's shiny new Starship is gearing up for a historic open to orbit. Before the next-gen spacecraft takes to the skies, it must be stacked up on the launchpad and make it ended a series of tests. On Thursday, SpaceX shared some impressive new looks at the ship and rocket together.

The orbital open attempt, which doesn't yet have a scheduled date, will take location at SpaceX's Starbase facility in Texas. It's a scenic spot listed the coast that provides a lovely backdrop for the Starship glamour shots. 

Starship looks like it's ready to get off this rock in a January 2023 SpaceX photo.

SpaceX

Narrowing down an just launch attempt time has been tricky. SpaceX founder Elon Musk has a history of decision-exclusive optimistic projections that don't pan out. Earlier this month, he suggested Starship has a shot at a February open, with a March date even more likely.

SpaceX has been creation excitement for the launch through images and video. The commerce shared a thrilling top-down view of a fiery causes test late last year. More fancy spacecraft images are available on SpaceX's Flickr site.

Starship is pointed to open new avenues of space exploration. The agreeable goal is to get it safely to orbit. Then, SpaceX will work on sketching humans on board. After that, SpaceX is aiming to send a group of artists near the moon and fulfill a NASA contract to take astronauts to the surface of the moon ended the Artemis program.

There's a lot riding on this radiant, uncrewed Starship and the big rocket that will (hopefully) blast it to location. There are a lot of uncertainties with a new orbital open of new equipment, so it's wise to enjoy the views of Starship in pristine countries while you still can.

---

Source