Watch our HTC U11 hands-on video preview!

Is squeezing your phone the next big thing in mobile? HTC certainly thinks so. Its new flagship phone, the U11, is built around this simple but convenient gesture.

But this phone is much more than just a quirky, gimmicky shortcut feature. There's also a beautiful, shimmering, liquid glass design encasing hardware that'll provide all the power you crave — along with upgraded camera and audio hardware.

As the name suggests, this is the direct successor to the 10, but it's also a member of the new HTC U family, which started with the U Play and U Ultra back in January. But honestly, forget about those phones. The U11 is where the HTC U brand story should have begun.

The design is a considerable refinement of the liquid glass aesthetic that HTC introduced earlier in the year — metal flowing directly into glass, with tight tolerances and joins. And the phone comes in five gorgeous, shimmering colors, including two impressive new hues — "amazing silver," which shifts between a sky blue and silvery gray, and the fiery "solar red," my personal favorite.

HTC also hits all the necessary points for a current high-end handset: A Snapdragon 835 processor, plenty of storage and RAM, IP67 water and dust resistance, and an upgraded UltraPixel 3 camera which ranks as the current DXOMark champion.

Find out more about the HTC U11 in our hands-on video feature. And hit up our full hands-on preview for a detailed breakdown of what's new, what's great, and what's not so great.

• HTC U11 hands-on preview
• HTC U11 specs
• Android Central on YouTube

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Dive into summer with a new wallpaper

Prepare yourself: summer is coming.

Winter can be a cruel season, but if you ask a good Texan girl like me, there is no harsher season than summer. Triple digit heat and oppressive humidity, summer is a season that can kill far quicker, and in horrifying ways. As such, before we dive into these whimsical wallpapers, I'm going to remind everyone that it doesn't matter how short you'll be in the store or how shaded your parking space is, NEVER leave your kids or your pets in the car. It doesn't take long for temperatures in a car to get unbearable and for heat stroke to set in. If you're the forgetful type, set a reminder on your phone.

Play a word association game with most folks, and when you say summer, they'll say BEACH! I don't blame them, there's definitely an appeal to cooling off on a hot day by going for a swim in the deep blue sea. The freedom of the water, the beauty of the beach, the spectacular views… I want to go slip on a bikini and dive into the water right now, but I'll settle for letting this sunflower-clad beauty take the dip instead.

Summer Rest by Redixx

Summer breeze makes me feel fine…

This wallpaper just makes me wanna blast that song on repeat. The wind sweeping across the beach and playing at Aqua's hair, the palm trees swaying and the sea glistening with the glow of sunset… Everything about this wallpaper screams of summer, and I'm as ready as the water goddess to savor the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season.

Summer Vibes 4 by ojjustice

Summer flowers may not get the same fawning and devotion as the blossoms of spring, but the flowers that litter the gardens and fields of summer adventures paint our world in riveting, radiant hues. These flowers are the bounty of nature's beauty and the fulfillment of the age-old rhyme: April showers bring May flowers...

Color refresh by Adopusina

The beach gets most of our adoration and attention in the summer, but the summer season is also a time for a lot of us to head to the mountains and forests to explore nature on a more solid surface. The mountains seem peaceful looking like this, as if there aren't wolves and bears and mountain lions lurking within them… Who's ready to climb a mountain?

Landscape Wallpaper by opreadorin1

Summer brings a lot of opportunities to visit new locations and see new things, but some of the best aspects of summer can be savored right here at home. There is no summer treat I crave more frequently than an ice-cold popsicle after I come in out of the hellish Texas heat. This cute popsicle wallpaper doesn't give me that rush of cold sugar, but it's not gonna get my phone all sticky, either...

Live in the Sunshine by Sarah Hearts

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Everything Flo is packing in her Gear Bag for Google I/O 2017

It's basically just sunscreen and some phones.

If there's one thing that stuck with me after attending last year's Google I/O, it's to always wear sunscreen. If you've ever had to carry a giant bag full of things on top of sunburned shoulders, then you know the pain. And that pain is not fun to have lingering around when you'd rather be soaking up developer sessions and checking out the latest Android-based demonstrations.

This year, I'm packing a ton of sunscreen. Bottles of it. I'm bringing the spray kind, the lotion kind, and some for my face — I'll probably slather a bunch in my scalp, for the days I forget my hat. I'm packing a couple of other neccesary things, too — a laptop, a couple of smartphones— but I'm attempting to keep it my kit as concise and as whittled down to the necessary as possible so that I've enough room to carry all that sunscreen.

The bag: Something I bought off of AliExpress

I couldn't do the Timbuk2 Classic Messenger anymore. The more gear I'd cram into it, the more my back seemed to ache for days after merely an hour with it on. So, I switched to this little backpack I found on AliExpress a few months ago, though it's quickly turned into one of my favorite carry-all. And it was pretty affordable, too!

This off-brand bag is big enough to fit my MacBook Pro and Timbuk2 Snoop Camera Insert (the link takes you to the new version of the product). There's also a front pocket that fits my phone and my wallet perfectly, and there's enough room inside to store rolled-up sweater, too. Google I/O will likely be in the upper digits towards the mid-afternoon but at night fall it can get pretty chilly in the South Bay.

Also inside: So much sunscreen

As a pale-skinned woman who burns considerably after only minutes in the sun, I've gotten into the habit of carrying some very heavy duty sunscreen. My favorite is the Alba Botanica Hawaiian sunscreen. It smells nice and it's water resistant, and it's kept me protected through various hikes through the California Redwoods and beyond. It's also available in spray form, which is convenient for quick touchups throughout the day.

On my face, I wear Tarte Guard Sunscreen, which offers all the protection without the grease. But if you're put off by the bright pink bottle, Dr. Jart's Every Sun Day UV Sunscreen is a great Korean-made alternative that's also dermatologist-tested and cruelty-free.

See at Amazon

The phone: Pixel XL

I remember last year, I was already struggling with the Nexus 6P around this time — I vividly remember pulling over while navigating around Mountain View because the phone had randomly shut down in the middle of my route. You can bet there was plenty of screaming and cursing happening that day.

I don't expect to run into the same issue with the Pixel XL, but that's because it's been so consistent since I adopted it last October. I know that I can trust it to post to Twitter, Instagram Stories, and Snapchat without shutting down on me, as well as provide ample battery life for answering the barrage of Hangouts messages and emails I'll be fielding throughout the entire week. It also takes the best photos, and it's the only phone I have in my arsenal with the absolute latest version of Android.

See at Google

The smartwatch: LG Watch Style

To be very honest with you, faithful Android users, I've long since ditched Android Wear 2.0 for the hybrid Fossil Q (also pictured here) because I don't like having to charge a watch every single night. But during major event weeks, I'll switch to the [LG Watch Style(/lg-watch-style-review), which is one of the most comfortable smartwatches for those with smaller wrists. I like to have the notifications pop up as they appear, not to mention it's much more convenient to respond with a simple "ok" on Android Wear than it is to always have my phone in my hand.

See at Google

The other computer: Samsung DeX

I'm not actually planning to use the Samsung Galaxy S8+ to cover Google I/O. I'm actually bringing it to test out the Samsung DeX, which I'll be using in my Mountain View hotel room to decompress at the end of each day. I'm impressed with what I'm seen from Samsung's "desktop experience" thus far, but the real test will be whether it makes sense for me to travel with a mouse, keyboard, and HDMI cable in tow, too.

See at Best Buy

Other gear and accessories

There are a couple of other necessities I'm packing with me. My battery pack this year will be the AUKEY 20,000 mAh solar-powered battery pack, which is quite dense and will certainly add a bit of weight to my bag. But it's got multiple ports for the crew to charge along, and I never have to worry about it running out of juice as long as the sun is still shining.

I'm also bringing along a Polaroid wide-angle lens, which easily screws on to the existing 40mm lens already affixed to my Canon SL1. This makes it so that I can widen the shot of the crazy sculptures placed throughout the Shoreline and switch back to the pancake lens when I need to snap a photo of a screen, for instance.

Coming to Google I/O?

Are you making the trek to Mountain View for Google's annual developer conference? Leave a comment and tell us what you're packing for the event!

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Best LG Phones

Let's be completely honest here — LG's generally known as the other South Korean smartphone company. But if that's all you think about LG, you're sorely missing out, as it's been making really good smartphones that too often fly under the radar. That's not to say we haven't seen LG make inroads in the past few years. It's made three Nexus phones in partnership with Google, and in recent years has become known for trying something different with wacky camera technologies, bendable handsets and removable modules.

LG's also known for making more than a few forgettable low-end phones. But these, here, truly are the LG smartphones you need to be acquainted with.

Updated May, 2017: Added LG G6 to the list and removed Nexus 5X.

LG G6

Announced February, 2017: LG's successor to the disappointing G5 is an incredible feat of engineering. Glass front and back, with metal sides and an extra tall 2880x1400 display, the phone is all about simplicity and versatility. Adding to its pedigree is a system of dual 13-megapixel cameras — a standard 71mm lens and a 125mm wide-angle lens — which take amazing photos in almost any lighting condition.

Then there's the other additions to the collection this year: IP68 waterproofing, a larger 3,300mAh battery, a Quad DAC in some regions, and wireless charging in the U.S.

More: LG G6 review! Where to buy the LG G6 in the U.S.

See at Verizon See at AT&T See at Sprint See at T-Mobile See at B&H Photo

LG V20

Released October 2016: The V20 is the follow-up to the V10, but it really is more a successor to the G5. When looked at through that lens, the all-metal design of the V20 makes a lot more sense, though its size and shape are certainly owe tribute to the V10.

Like the G5, it has a dual camera, but it also sports the impressive and unique Second Screen from the V10. And being a late-2016 device, it's got all the specs you'd expect: a 5.7-inch QHD LCD display, a Snapdragon 820 processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of internal storage, and a huge 3200mAh battery. It's also got the same audio and camera pedigree as the V10, with an amazing Quad DAC from ESS, a powerful amplifier, and plenty of manual camera controls for photos and video.

• More: LG V20 review
• Where to buy the LG V20 in the U.S.
• Where to buy the LG V20 in Canada

See at B&H Photo Video

LG G5

Released April 2016: The LG G5 arrived earlier in the year than previous G-series phones, making its grand debut at MWC 2016. It also marks yet another new direction for LG, with the G5 taking buttons off the back of the phone and introducing an all new, slightly crazy, modular design.

For the most part the G5 is what you'd expect of an early-2016 flagship product: Snapdragon 820 processor, 5.3-inch QHD display, 32GB internal storage and 4GB of RAM. The cameras aren't what you'd expect, though, with two of them on the back combining to take genuine wide angle shots if you so wish.

But the modules are among of the highlights: the whole bottom chin of the G5 comes away and can be replaced. Options announced so far include a Bang & Olufsen enhanced-audio module or one with an extended battery and camera controls. It's an interesting idea that may or may not have legs — nevertheless, the G5 itself is more than worthy of your attention.

• More: LG G5 review
• Discuss the LG G5 in our forums
• Where to buy in the United States
• Where to buy in the UK

See at Amazon

LG V10

Released October 2015: The V10 represents the beginning of a new range in LGs ever growing smartphone portfolio. While there are elements of the G line present in the overall design, the V10 is something entirely new. It's big, it's well-made and it's got some fantastic camera stuff going on with some incredibly useful manual controls.

One thing that also can't go unnoticed about the V10 is that second display up top. LG isn't the first to try adding a second display to the front of a phone (remember than Samsung monstrosity from back in the day?) but to pass it off as just a gimmick would be selling it short. You can customize what goes there, for example, and it's supposed to be useful. But it also makes the phone even taller.

• More: LG V10 review
• Discuss this phone in our forums

See at Amazon

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Best Small Data Plan

A good small data plan does exist, even if nobody advertises them.

Unlimited plans get all the press and all the glitter, but most people don't need one. That's why small data plans still exist and are popular options.

Shopping for a phone plan is unnecessarily difficult, especially now that all four big U.S. carriers want to force you to the more expensive unlimited data offering. But there are alternatives if you dive deep into a carrier's website, and some of them are a decent value.

We did the digging, and here's what we found.

AT&T

AT&T offers unlimited and "data share" postpaid plans for customers who are buying a phone (they are required as part of the NEXT program). If you bring your own phone, you will need to use its prepaid goPhone plans.

Price	Features
$45 per month	6GB LTE data Unlimited talk and text in the US Unlimited talk and text to Canada and Mexico Roaming in Mexico & Canada (Talk, Text & Data) Unlimited text to over 100 countries

Once 6GB of data is used, you'll be slowed down to 128kbps data speeds for the remainder of the month. AT&T also offers a discount for multiple lines on one account. You save $5 for each line up to a maximum of five (a $20 total).

For comparison's sake, this same plan with unlimited data is available for $65. AT&T also offers a $30 monthly plan with all the perks above and no bundled data allotment. Data packages are $5 for 250MB.

See plans at AT&T

Sprint

In addition to its prepaid plans, Sprint offers a postpaid option for folks who only use a small amount of data each month.

Price	Features
$40 per month	2GB LTE data (including tethering) Unlimited talk and text Unlimited international text

Sprint advertises its 2GB plan as "The lowest price entry plan among national carriers." However, Verizon offers a 2GB plan for $35, and in many cases a few dollars more gets you a plan with double the data.

For reference,Sprint's single-line unlimited data plan is $60 per month.

See plans at Sprint

T-Mobile

T-Mobile's only postpaid plan for new customers is its unlimited offering. It does have several prepaid options available.

Price	Features
$45 per month	4GB of LTE data (including tethering) Unlimited talk and text Music Unlimited (stream music without using your data) Wi-Fi calling

T-Mobile also offers the same plan with 6GB of LTE data for $55 per month. International talk and text packages are extra and start at $5 per month.

The fine print for T-Mobile's Simply Prepaid plan has a few things that need mentioned. You are given 50MB of out-of-network roaming each month, and calling plan options only support a two-party conversation; Conference calls may cost extra.

For reference, T-Mobile's unlimited prepaid plan is $75 per month.

See plans at T-Mobile

Verizon

Price	Features
$35	2GB of LTE data (including tethering) Unlimited Talk and Text Rollover data (30 days maximum) Additional data for $15 per Gigabyte

Verizon offers this plan with more monthly data in two other options: 4GB of LTE data for $50 per month and 8GB of LTE data for $70 per month.

All postpaid plans allow you to continue to use data at lower speeds once your monthly allotment is reached. These postpaid plans do not include any equipment fees if you need to buy a phone from Verizon.

*See plans at Verizon

The best small data plan

There are a few things in common with all four carriers: The listed prices in all advertisements are for customers who use autopay for their monthly bill. Each carrier slows down your data to 2G speeds once you hit a cap on data, which is right around 20GB per line. And no carrier guarantees great coverage, no matter what their coverage maps might say.

Verizon offers the best small data plan in the U.S.

Overall, Verizon has the best small data plan you can buy in its 2GB for $35 option or the 4GB for $50 option. Here's how we reached the decision.

• Which companies offer the coverage you need? Having a cheap cell phone bill isn't so great if your phone doesn't work where you need it to work. Verizon has the best coverage of any U.S. carrier. We're not basing this on surveys or coverage maps; this is based on real-world use all over the country. While there are some places where you won't have a Verizon signal but will have coverage from another carrier, these are few and far between.

• Extra data at $15 per GB makes a big difference. If you're looking for a plan with just a bit of LTE data, knowing that you can buy more at any time is great. When paired with a $35 monthly plan and Verizon's coverage, it's hard to beat if you don't use much data. With the 4GB plan for $50, you also have a great option if 2GB just doesn't cut the mustard.

• Unlimited low-speed data and 30-day rollover for unused data are great features. While it would be nice to see Verizon refund you for unused data each month, carrying it over to the next month is the next best thing. And while low-speed data on Verizon can be frustratingly slow, it's fast enough to let you check your email or read Twitter (or order another Gigabyte online if you need more for the month).

Coverage, coverage, coverage. Even if you only use a little bit of data each month, you need to know you'll have a good connection when you need it. Coupled with the low cost of the entry level 2GB plan and the $15/GB buy up, this is the best small data plan you can buy in the U.S. The only time you should consider anyone else is if you're streaming music and use a service that's covered under T-Mobile's Music Unlimited feature and live where T-Mobile has great service.

The best news is that everything here is subject to change at any time! Because the market has become so competitive for unlimited data, companies will constantly be adjusting prices and features. When one company makes a move the rest will soon follow with their own new pricing or other offers.

We'll keep things updated here as changes happen and maybe next month we'll be recommending a different company.

See at Verizon

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Latest Instagram update adds face filters and more

Instagram lands another blow in the battle for social media dominance.

A new update is rolling out for Instagram today which adds a bunch of new features — including a few more borrowed from Snapchat. The big new feature is face filters, which works just like Snapchat's version does, but will also work with other Instagram features like Boomerang. You're able to use either the rear or selfie cam, then send your recording or pics to friends via Instagram Direct or add it to your story.

The addition of face filters comes as little surprise. Love them or hate them, it seems like every social media app is adding these face filters these days — and they're even popping up in the photo apps of the latest phones.

Other new features added in the update include the ability to record videos and then play them in reverse (again, similar to Snapchat), as well as the ability to add hashtag stickers, or simply type a hashtag using regular text. Anyone watching your story will be able to tap the hashtags and explore other tagged posts. There's also a new eraser tool as well as a color fill tool, so you're able to snap a photo, cover it with a color and then use the eraser tool to creatively reveal parts of your photos.

Have you checked out these new features? Between Snapchat and Instagram, which platform do you prefer — or neither? Let us know in the comments!

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Best Leather Cases for Galaxy S8 and S8+

Add a touch of class to your phone with a leather case!

The debate on whether or not to slap a case on the Galaxy S8 or S8+ rages on. On one hand, the phone is downright classy and beautiful all on its own, but on the other, it's made of glass and is, therefore, prone to taking damage.

A nice compromise is a leather case, which looks much nicer than other cases made of plastic and rubber. Leather cases are offered by a number of manufacturers and often include some type of wallet functionality as well. We've collected a range of options for you to consider, so let's dive in!

• Spigen Wallet S
• FYY Genuine Leather wallet case
• FlyHawk Slim Leather Back wallet case
• Ringke Flex S Leather-style phone case
• X-Level Vintage PU Leather case

Spigen Wallet S

Spigen's Wallet S case is a great option for those looking for a folio-style wallet case. Made of synthetic leather with an embedded TPU casing, this case blends protection with functionality by including three card slots, a pocket for cash, and the ability to fold it over into a kickstand for hands-free media viewing.

This case is available for both the Galaxy S8 (linked below) and the S8+ in both black and coffee brown. You can buy with confidence knowing that Spigen is one of the most trusted names in phone cases.

See at Amazon (for Galaxy S8)

FYY Genuine Leather wallet case

All too often case manufacturers misuse the word "leather", when in fact their case is actually made of polyurethane material that's made to look and feel like leather. More often than not, we're okay with this, but if you're looking for a case made of genuine leather, FYY has you covered with its case for the Galaxy S8.

Available in five different color, FYY's wallet cases are handcrafted out of real leather for a premium look and feel that you just won't get from many other cases. You'll find three card slots and a cash pocket on the inside across from the phone itself. It also offers RFID protection to prevent someone from reading your debit or credit card information with an RFID reader.

If you're looking for a case made from real leather, look no further than FYY.

See at Amazon

FlyHawk Slim Leather Back wallet case

Not a fan of the folio-style wallet cases but still yearning for that classy leather look? Check out this slim, leather-backed case from FlyHawk. It offers protection around the edges of your phone while keeping the buttons and ports wide open along the sides and bottom of the phone. It's one of the slimmest cases on this list, giving your phone a classy leather finish without adding too much unnecessary bulk.

Available for both the Galaxy S8 and S8+, you can get one in your choice of six different color options.

See at Amazon

Ringke Flex S Leather-style phone case

If you fall into the "hell yes, give me a case to protect this expensive phone" camp and also want a stylish leather case for your Galaxy S8 or S8+, you'll definitely want to consider this stylish case from Ringke.

This one-piece case is made with a mix of flexible TPU and PU leather to create a slim and stylish case for your phone. It's lightweight and streamlined to fit snugly on your phone, while still providing precise laser cutouts for all your phone's buttons, ports, and camera. You get that great leather in-hand feel without skimping on protection for your GS8. Check it out!

See at Amazon

X-Level Vintage PU Leather case

X-Level has managed to combine a slim and minimalist case with the leather look and feel you desire — the ultimate case for many of you we're sure.

Made of PU leather and featuring a weathered and vintage look, this case will look great on your Galaxy S8 or S8+. It's form-fitted and flexible for easy installation, with cutouts around the buttons and ports at the bottom and offering a touch of added protection for the camera on the back.

It's available in three colors — black, brown, and gold — for both phones; just be sure you've selected the right option for yourself before heading to check out.

See at Amazon

What's your favorite style of leather case?

Got any opinions on the cases we've highlighted above? Did we fail to include your favorite one? Let us know in the comments below!

Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+

• Galaxy S8 and S8+ review!
• Galaxy S8 and S8+ specs
• Everything you need to know about the Galaxy S8's cameras
• Get to know Samsung Bixby
• Join our Galaxy S8 forums

Verizon AT&T T-Mobile Sprint

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This wall charger packs a 5000mAh battery inside to keep you powered up from anywhere for just $22

Our friends at Thrifter are back again, this time with a pair of charging accessories you'll want to check out!

Battery life is something that continues to improve in phones and tablets, but not everyone can make it through the whole day on a single charge. Sure, you can carry around a spare wall charger and cable, or a battery pack, but what about if you could combine those into one? That's what Anker's PowerCore Fusion does, and right now you can pick one up at Amazon for just $21.99. This is a savings of $4 from its regular pricing.

It looks like a large wall charger, but it actually has a 5000mAh battery inside as well. This allows you to plug it into the wall to charge your phone if you are in the office, or charge it on the go with the battery inside. In addition, it offers:

• The Ultimate 2-in-1 Charger: A hybrid high-capacity portable battery and dual-port wall charger in one sleek package.
• High-Speed Charging: In the wall or on-the-go, Anker's exclusive PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technologies ensure that all devices receive their fastest possible charge. Does not support Qualcomm Quick Charge.
• Charge-and-Go: Charge your device and PowerCore Fusion's internal battery via a wall outlet, then take it with you for up to 3 phone charges—any place, any time. Boasts a foldable plug to ensure maximum portability

Whether you travel a lot, or just like to pack really light, you will want one of these for your phone. Stop carrying around multiple chargers and battery packs, and instead consolidate them into a single device! If you're looking for just a power bank, Chuwi is offering its 10050mAh battery with Quick Charge 3.0 for just $16.99 when using coupon ADCENTER at checkout.

See at Amazon

For more great deals be sure to check out our friends at Thrifter now!

from Android Central - Android Forums, News, Reviews, Help and Android Wallpapers http://ift.tt/2rmJjl5
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A Beginner's Guide to Elite: Dangerous

Getting started with Elite: Dangerous? Here's what you need to know!

If you're looking to start exploring in the deep void of space, Elite: Dangerous is the ultimate experience among both traditional games and virtual reality experiences. Here's what you should know getting started.

Read more at VR Heads!

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How do apps work on Samsung DeX?

A full-featured desktop operating system embedded into your smartphone? It's nearly possible with Samsung DeX.

The idea of using your smartphone to unlock a desktop operating system might sound absurd at first, but what if you could do that for a bit of extra money?

For $150, you can purchase the Samsung DeX dock to unlock the desktop operating system hidden deep within the depths of the code on your Galaxy S8 or S8+. The DeX dock features ports for all the necessary peripherals, including an HDMI input for an external monitor and USB for a mouse and keyboard. Once you have everything set up, you can start using the full-fledged desktop experience to get things done, just as you would on a Mac or PC.

The good news is that Samsung launched DeX with a variety of compatible, popular apps that make getting work done an actual possibility. There's also added Android app functionality, so that you can use every app you already have installed on the Galaxy S8. Here's a look at some of the apps that come readily available to use on the Samsung DeX — and some of those that are best avoided.

Every app is already there

With Samsung DeX, every app you already have installed on your Galaxy S8 will have a launcher icon available in the app drawer, as it were. Any apps that were previously open will show up in the dock — or taskbar — at the bottom of the interface, though you can also switch between active tasks by tapping the Recent Apps button in the bottom left side of the screen.

The desktop interface on the Samsung DeX.

This is what happens when an app isn't optimized for DeX — this one is Facebook Messenger.

Since the Galaxy S8 comes prepackaged with Samsung's own apps, you'll see shortcuts to those immediately available on the desktop. You may not regularly use them on the phone, but you'll want to considering getting into the habit of sparking these up when you get into DeX, since they've already been optimized for a larger display and desktop interface. Many of the other apps are merely emulated and will work best if they were already optimized for a tablet interface.

Some Android apps are fine, though, and work accordingly, even without the fancy optimization. Adobe Clips, for instance, is easy to use and exports videos to the phone's internal storage just fine. The Microsoft Office and the Google Docs app suite are all a cinch to use, too, and you might find you appreciate the fact that you can hook up a full-size keyboard to get some actual writing done. Even Snapchat works just fine, and I was able to post and scrawl away with the mouse and keyboard input.

Not all apps will work properly, and some won't even launch at all.

Not all apps will work properly and some won't even launch at all. My favorite app, Pokemon TCGO, doesn't work on Samsung DeX because it requires touch input (by comparison, the Android app works fine with the mouse or touch input on the Chromebook Flip). Spotify won't work either, and DeX will tell you it's because it wasn't optimized for multiple screen sizes (you can't launch into the browser version of the web app either). I also found that some apps aren't even worth using on DeX because they won't work in the background, like some of my favorite indie music radio apps put out by smaller developers who probably didn't even consider that this was a thing to develop for.

Full-service apps

For those of you looking for the full desktop experience, DeX is compatible with Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solutions like VMWare Horizon Client and Amazon Workspaces. You have to download the apps from the Google Play Store and have a valid license to use the desktop emulating clients.

It might look cramped, but it worked!

I was curious about how this particular ability works, so I tried the next best remote desktop experience I could think of: Chrome Remote Desktop. I tried it on DeX by connecting to my MacBook Pro and though the implementation was a little weird — the mouse and keyboard input abilities don't translate as well as they would if I were using the app from a browser through Chromebook, for instance — it works fine and I was able to navigate around macOS with no lag.

Samsung also worked with Microsoft and Adobe behind the scenes so that their Android apps are solid on the DeX interface. Like the VDI clients, all you have to do is download the apps from the Play Store to get to editing apps and writing TPS reports. When you save a file, it's stored to the phone's internal file system.

More app functionality to come

We still need to spend some time with DeX before offering a full verdict.

The Samsung "desktop experience" is still in its nascent stages, so it'll take some time before all the kinks are worked out of DeX OS. If you'd rather not download an app but still want the functionality, you can do trial by fire with the varying web apps and services you might typically access through the web. Just bear in mind that not everything works.

We've still got quite a bit of diving to do into the DeX experience before we can offer a full verdict on whether it's worth the cash. But if you've brought a DeX home and you're playing around with it, let us know what you think about the apps experience by leaving a comment below.

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Follow Android Central at Google I/O 2017!

The next best thing to being there yourself.

There's something special about Google I/O, and with the conference's move to an outdoor venue starting last year it has become even more quirky and festival-like than ever before. Only a small number of Android fans get to attend Google I/O alongside the droves of developers who are there to learn about the latest technology from Google, but the Android Central team is lucky enough to have a handful of people in attendance this year.

You'll see all of the Google I/O 2017 news right here on Android Central, but for all of the smaller things — the experiences, the people, the fun, the after-hours shenanigans — you'll want to follow us all on social media. Five of us from Android Central will be at the conference, and we'll also have MrMobile (Michael Fisher) in tow to see everything Google has to offer over three days in sunny Mountain View.

Alex Dobie: Twitter | Instagram

Andrew Martonik: Twitter | Instagram

Daniel Bader: Twitter | Instagram

Florence Ion: Twitter | Snapchat

Jerry Hildenbrand (Cowboy): Twitter

Michael Fisher (MrMobile): YouTube | Twitter | Instagram | Snapchat | Facebook

For a single-follow experience that will make you feel like you're there with us, be sure to follow the official Android Central Twitter account and Android Central Instagram account — you won't be disappointed!

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Samsung Pay finally lands in the UK

Samsung Pay makes its long-awaited debut in the UK.

Samsung Pay is finally going live in the UK. The app is now available to download from the Galaxy Apps Store, and is available on the Galaxy S8 and S8+, as well as the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. The Galaxy S6 and S6 edge are also eligible as long as they're running Nougat.

Currently, Samsung Pay is limited to customers banking with MBNA, Nationwide, and Santander, but more banks will be added in the due course of time. The Samsung Pay UK website has all the relevant details.

You'll also be able to link your London transport card to Samsung Pay, allowing you to use your phone to pay as you go on the bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail, Emirates Air Line, River Bus and most National Rail services in the capital.

Samsung Pay supports both NFC as well as MST (Magnetic Secure Transmission), making the service compatible with older card readers. You'll be able to add up to ten payment cards and 300 loyalty cards, but as the data is stored locally on your phone, you'll have to manually add cards when switching to a new phone.

Looking to get started with Samsung Pay? We have you covered:

Set up Samsung Pay on your Galaxy S8

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Galaxy Note 8 once again rumored with dual cameras and 3x optical zoom

The Galaxy Note 8 will be the first Samsung phone with two cameras at the back.

Samsung tested dual rear cameras on the Galaxy S8, but the company is said to be saving the feature for the Galaxy Note 8. A rumor from last month stated that the phone may feature a 12MP wide-angle lens paired with a 13MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a new report out of South Korea corroborates the claim.

Korea Herald also notes that rising demand for dual camera sensors — Xiaomi is the latest to adopt the technology in the Mi 6 — will result in increased revenues for LG and Samsung. Although Samsung saw diminished sales from phones in Q1 2017, it posted its second-highest profits ever on the back of strong sales from the semiconductor and imaging sensor units.

LG Innotek — which provides imaging sensors for Apple and Huawei in addition to its own devices — also saw a 100% increase in sales to $827 million in Q1 2017. With the Galaxy Note 8, Samsung will be looking to build on the success of the Galaxy S8 and change customer perception around the Note brand, and one way of doing that is by introducing exciting new features.

Samsung Galaxy Note 8: What we know so far

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Sprint buyer's guide: Everything you need to know

Find out what Sprint has to offer.

Sprint may be fourth amongst America's top four carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint), but it's still a big player in the national wireless market, with nearly 60 million subscribers across the country. It was the first carrier to offer "truly unlimited" plans for data, which are still a cornerstone of its mobile business. Sprint operates a nationwide CDMA network in the 800,1900, and 2500 MHz frequency bands, and even combines the three to provide higher throughput with its "LTE Plus" service on certain devices and plans.

Sprint offers unlimited talk, text, and data plans that can be configured for individuals or with multiple lines added for families. They offer deals on the latest phones, including the Samsung Galaxy S8 and LG G6.

Sprint has a lot to offer, so read on and find a plan that works for you!

• Best Individual Plans
• Best Family Plan
• Best Phones
• Best Deals on Sprint
• How to cancel Sprint
• How to unlock a Sprint phone
• Finding an alternative carrier that uses Sprint's network

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Best Individual Plans

All of Sprint's contract plans include unlimited talk, text, and data, which start as low as $50 a month for a single line. Sprint also offers prepaid plans for those looking to avoid annual contracts and wanting to avoid credit checks and late fees.

• Unlimited plans
• Sprint Prepaid

Unlimited plans

Sprint offers some of the most competitive pricing for Unlimited plans amongst the Big Four carriers, as it prominently displays on its website with a comparative graph. According to Sprint, you could get an unlimited plan for two lines at a better price than AT&T and Verizon's unlimited plans for just one line.

You can get a single line with unlimited data, talk, and text for $50 a month. That's before any taxes, fees, or device leasing costs, but it's still a great deal. Enjoy unlimited video streaming in 1080p and take advantage of 10GB of high-speed mobile hotspot access for your tablets and laptops.

Sprint's advertised prices do not include monthly surcharges, taxes, fees and other charges, which you can learn about on Sprint's website.

Learn more

Sprint Prepaid

Sprint offers prepaid plans for individuals and families, which start as low as $45 a month for unlimited talk and text and 3GB of high speed data, with a $5 discount per month for signing up for AutoPay. There's an option for unlimited data if that's important to you, for $60 a month with the AutoPay discount before surcharges and fees.

Prepaid plans include a free mobile hotspot (tethering), which you can use with tablets, laptops, or other Wi-Fi connected devices. There's no credit check required for a prepaid plan, and if you make 12 consecutive on-time payments, you can upgrade to a Sprint postpaid service with no credit check and upgrade to a new device with no activation fee.

Learn more

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Best Family Plans

Sprint offers an Unlimited Freedom family plan that gives you unlimited data, talk, and text for your family, along with 10GB of hotspot data per line for any tablets, laptops, and other connected devices you or your family may own.

Pricing starts at $60 a month for the first line, $40 for the second, and $30 for any additional lines added. Other monthly fees will be applied, including any lease agreements for new phones, and the advertised pricing includes Auto Pay discounts.

You may find a better deal just getting an Unlimited Plan, which offers four lines at $30 a month and offers much of the same features as Sprint's advertised family plan. Sprint will throw in a fifth line for free until June 30, 2017 for new accounts.

Sprint also offers prepaid plans for families which start at $100 a month for three lines and include unlimited talk and text and 3GB of high speed data. Prices will vary depending on how much data you require on each line.

Learn more

Best Phones

Sprint has a very particular network that doesn't let you bring your own device from another carrier, so your best bet will be buying your next phone through Sprint and paying for it on contract. The good news is that Sprint offers many of the latest and greatest Android phones:

• Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+
• LG G6
• Samsung Galaxy S7 edge
• LG V20

If you plan on buying a phone from Sprint, you have a couple payment options to consider. If you have good credit, you can lease or buy the phone via monthly contracts with no money down — if you're still building your credit or have credit issues, you'll have to put money down on the phone (typically around $200). If you've got the cash to buy a phone outright, that option is also available.

If you opt to buy the phone outright or on a 24-month installment plan, Sprint often bundles accessories with its biggest selling phones. For example, if you were to get a Galaxy S8, you'd get a free "entertainment kit" for the Galaxy S8, which includes Samsung's Clear View Standing Cover along with a 64GB EVO+ memory card. Buy the LG G6 and Sprint will throw in a free Google Home.

Learn more

Best Deals on Sprint

Sprint has a section on its website with all of its latest deals, mostly for customers opening new accounts, subscribers upgrading their plans, and deals on leasing brand new devices.

As of May 2017, the best deals Sprint is offering include:

— Lease a Galaxy S8 and get a GS7 lease for free. With this deal, you're also eligible to upgrade your Galaxy S8 to the latest Galaxy phone after 12 lease payments. You'll also be entered to win a $5,000 Samsung shopping spree. — Sprints Unlimited plans. — Get a free 32GB iPhone 7 on an 18-month lease with a qualified trade-in and a new line activation. — Switch to Sprint and get a $100 Visa Prepaid Card for each line of activation. — Get 50% off the LG G6 — along with a free Google Home.

There are more deals to be had. Check out Sprint's site or head in-store to find out more information!

Learn more

How to cancel with Sprint

You can cancel your Sprint service at any time, but if you cancel it before your contract is done, you'll have to pay early termination fees on top of the balance remaining on your cell phone bill.

You may be able to get out of paying them if you don't think you received the service you paid for (might be your reason for cancelling), or sometimes your new carrier may have a deal to pay them on your behalf. Whichever way you deal with it, you are the one who is ultimately responsible for paying them.

You'll need to call Sprint Customer Service to cancel or change your plans. Call 1-888-211-4727 or dial *2 from a Sprint phone. When you get on the line, ask to speak to someone from the retention team. They may try to offer you deals to keep your business, but will also have the authority to cancel or change your service.

How to unlock a Sprint phone

Not all Sprint phones are available to be unlocked, and even when they can be unlocked, Sprint does not guarantee that they will be fully compatible with other networks. Only Sprint phones released after February 2015 are eligible for domestic unlocking. Of those, the only Android phones that are confirmed eligible for domestic SIM unlock on Sprint's website are the HTC One M9, LG G Flex2, Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge, and Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. If your phone is not eligible for a domestic SIM unlock, Sprint may be able to provide a Master Subsidy Lock code.

To get your Sprint phone unlocked, your phone and/or Sprint account must meet the following criteria:

• Your phone must be Domestic SIM Unlock capable.
• The device must be or have been active on the Sprint network for a minimum of 50 days.
• If you have any outstanding lease payments, bills, or early termination fees, you'll need to settle up with Sprint before it will unlock your device. Depending on your contract, you may need to buy out the remaining cost of your Sprint phone.
• Your Sprint account must be in good standing.
• The phone hasn't been reported as lost or stolen, or 'otherwise flagged as ineligible to be unlocked'. Basically, as long as you can prove that it's yours and there's nothing sketchy about it, you should be good.

Sprint offers temporary unlocking for international travel — and most devices they sell are compatible. Same rules apply above, except the phone must be currently active on a Sprint account. This will allow you to use a SIM card from the country you're travelling to.

Even if Sprint unlocks your phone, Sprint will not guarantee its phones will operate on another network. You may get limited functionality, such as voice services but no data services. It's the risk you run when you buy through Sprint.

Sprint does partner with a wide variety of alternative carriers. They use Sprint's network, which allows you to easily bring your own Sprint device over to their carrier.

Learn more

Finding an alternative carrier that uses Sprint's network

Sprint offers its network up to a whole bunch of alternative carriers. Alternative carriers — also known as MVNOs — work by partnering with one or more of the Big Four carriers to piggyback on their networks. This allows them to offer better deals to consumers without needing to worry about infrastructure upkeep.

They've become increasingly reliable over the years and offer the cheapest plans in the mobile industry. There are 26 MVNOs that operate on Sprint's network, including Boost Mobile, Straight Talk, Project Fi and Virgin Mobile USA.

Learn More

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