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    The best small phones in 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

    There’s no set definition of a small phone. A decade ago, 5-inch+ screen size phones were known as phablets. That same screen size is now considered too small, thanks to advancements in display technology and design. With FaceID coming into play and the physical home button disappearing, any phone with around a 6.1-inch screen can be considered small. Since Apple abandoned its Mini lineup with the iPhone 13 Mini, and most small phones that have launched since haven’t been very popular, the definition of a “small phone” has changed — most phones now feature a 6.7-inch display. As a result, we have more options for small phones than ever. In 2024, you no longer have to settle for a non-flagship phone if you want a compact device. Also: The best Android phones: Expert tested Which is the best small phone right now?At ZDNET, we’ve tested every flagship phone launched this year. My picks for the two best small phones overall are the iPhone 16 Pro More

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    Buy a Samsung Galaxy A35 and get a pair of Buds FE for free at Amazon

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETSamsung dropped new phones and devices in July, which means that there are plenty of discounts and coupons on mobile devices, like the Galaxy A35 smartphone — a nearly perfect option for older kids and teens or anyone looking for an affordable, no-nonsense smartphone.If you have kids who are asking for their own smartphones, Amazon is offering a free pair of Samsung Buds FE wireless earbuds when you bundle them with a Samsung Galaxy A35 smartphone More

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    The best VPN trials of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

    Protecting your privacy online is a necessity in today’s world, and a virtual private network (VPN) is an excellent way to begin.VPNs provide tunnels that mask your online communication by issuing you an IP from another location, encrypting data, and disguising your online activities. They make it harder for third parties to track you, making you less likely to become a victim of eavesdropping, a data breach, or for your personal information to be exploited by marketers. The choices out there for VPNs are endless, but some are more trustworthy than others. The easiest way to see if a particular VPN is the right option for you is to sign up for a free trial. Many VPN companies now allow potential customers to test them out for free for a set amount of time. In most cases, we recommend you choose a trial over a free VPN service, as many free offerings require you to agree to data collection and targeted advertising. That said, you must sign up if you want a trial, so take note of the money-back guarantee period and cancel before you are charged.Also: The best VPN services you can buyWhat is the best VPN trial right now?Our top pick is Proton VPN More