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    Changing this Android setting instantly doubled my phone speed (Samsung and Google models included)

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETAs a full-time smartphone reviewer, I spend most of my year testing Android phones.By habit, I’ve picked up several shortcuts, tips, and tricks for setting up handsets, tweaking them so that they perform as best as possible when the verdicts are due.Also: How to clear your Android phone cache (and why it’s the easiest way to speed it up)One tip I always give to family members, friends, and passersby when asked, “How can I make my phone faster?” is straightforward yet typically hidden: Adjusting the animation speed.The method of doing so is quick, simple, and absolutely free. As a bonus, you’ll feel like the “guy behind the computer” in action movies. Here are the steps. More

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    TP-Link’s new Wi-Fi 7 router is a travel-friendly option that won’t break the bank

    TP-Link ZDNET’s key takeaways TP-Link’s new BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Travel Router is designed with portability in mind, making it ideal for business travelers. Still, it packs useful connectivity features like dual-band support with up to 3.6 Gbps, adjustable antennas ,and more. The router is priced at $140, with a promotional code on Amazon bringing it […] More

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    I swapped my Sonos soundbar for one with detachable rear speakers – genius or gimmick?

    JBL Bar 1000MK2 <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The JBL Bar 1000MK2 includes a soundbar, two detachable rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $1,200. It’s a versatile system, with powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms. It’s not an ideal option for people who want permanent rear speakers. more buying choices The original JBL Bar […] More

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    My top 5 favorite iOS 26 features so far – and how to try them all now

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETApple has been busy prepping iOS 26 for its likely debut in September. Until then, the iPhone’s upcoming new OS has been accessible for anyone to try via a developer beta (now up to version 5) and the initial public beta. Though iOS 26 still has at least a month of tweaks before it’s finalized, the beta flavors already provide a peek at what to expect.You can download iOS 26 beta on your iPhone now. Here’s how to install it — and which models support it.Also: The best MagSafe accessories of 2025 for your iPhoneI’ve been running the public beta since its release on July 24. Among the new and improved features in iOS 26, these are my five favorites so far.1. Liquid GlassAdding a new translucent design to the interface, Liquid Glass gives the impression that you’re looking at your screen elements through glass. With this new aesthetic enabled, icons appear more three-dimensional and layered, while menus are semi-transparent. I’ve read some negative comments about Liquid Glass, but I like the new design. I feel the interface draws me in and engages with me in an artistic but practical way. Comparing my test iPhone with iOS 26 and my current phone with iOS 18, I can clearly see and appreciate the differences with Liquid Glass.Also: What is Liquid Glass? Here’s everything we know about Apple’s major UI overhaul More

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    I’ve owned every Google Pixel flagship phone since the first – here’s why 2025 will be different

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeawaysThe Google Pixel 10 is expected to receive significant upgrades this year, including a dedicated telephoto lens.Greater feature parity with the Pro models, combined with no expected price increases, makes the standard Pixel an enticing option.It still won’t be the best option for power users, especially if you want the most capable camera system from Google.Google’s non-Pro Pixel phone has always been the “safe pick.” It’s the model I recommend to most users, so long as they can live without the Pro features — whether that’s an extra telephoto camera, more RAM, or better hardware.Also: This rumored Pixel 10 feature puts Google above Samsung and OnePlus for me – here’s whyWhile there’s little left to the imagination as far as what the upcoming Google Pixel 10 phones will look like, if the leaks and rumors are true, there will be a notable shift in dynamics this year. I’ll say it now: The Pixel 10, not the Pixel 10 Pro, will be both the safe pick and the best pick in 2025. I’m not alone in that belief, and here’s why. More