You’ll need to be subscribed to Switch Online’s $50-a-year Expansion Pack tier to access GoldenEye and other N64 games. Online multiplayer is exclusive to the Switch release, the official 007 website noted, but this version is otherwise the same as the N64 original.
The default control scheme will likely feel a little weird, but Reddit user Cuesport77 suggested changes that’ll bring it in line with modern shooters. I tested this, and it works beautifully (though I opted to use the left analog stick to move around, right for aiming).
1. Go to System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Change Button Assignments.
2. Create a control profile for GoldenEye.
3. Remap the left analog stick to function as right analog.
4. Remap the right analog stick to function as left analog.
5. Remap ZR button to function as ZL, so you can fire with ZR.
6. Remap ZL to function as L, so you can manual aim with ZL.
7. (Optional) Remap L to function as B, so you can activate things with L.
8. (Optional) Remap R to function as A, so you can switch weapons with R.
(You will now have to navigate using the right analog stick and either A/B or L/R, depending on whether you followed steps 6 and 7.)
9. Launch GoldenEye and begin a mission, navigating menus with the right analog stick.
10. Pause, and go over to Controls.
11. Switch from 1.1 Honey to 1.2 Solitaire.
12. Go over to Settings, and turn the Look Up/Down setting to Upright.
Playing GoldenEye 007 on Xbox
The Game Pass version is playable on Xbox One and Xbox Series X and S. A subscription costs $10 a month, though people who own a digital copy of Rare Replay, the 30-game compilation of classics that came out in 2015, can also get access to GoldenEye for free. That doesn’t apply to physical copies of Rare Replay, and the game isn’t available to purchase separately.
“The game now offers modern control options (including support for dual analog sticks) and a consistent refresh rate, running at a native 16:9 resolution up to 4K Ultra HD (where supported),” Craig Duncan, head of Microsoft-owned developer Rare, said in a blog post marking the game’s release. “There’s also a full roster of Xbox achievements to strive for, some of which are sure to test the mettle of proficient 00 Agents.”
So it offers more modern bells and whistles than the Switch release, but lacks online multiplayer (you’ll still have local splitscreen).
As a licensed tie-in to the 1995 movie that introduced actor Pierce Brosnan as the legendary British secret agent, the game won critical acclaim for its fun single-player campaign and epic split-screen competitive multiplayer. It became the N64’s third bestselling title, with 8.09 million units sold — it was only topped by Super Mario 64 and Mario Kart 64, which sold 11.91 million and 9.87 million copies, respectively.
Rare also developed GoldenEye followup Perfect Dark for the N64 in 2000, before Microsoft acquired the company in 2002.
Prepare to revisit some ’90s splitscreen multiplayer chaos.
Rare
Fans have been expecting a remaster for Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and S to be revealed for months, since achievements for it have leaked multiple times. It was reportedly planned for release on Xbox 360 in the late 2010s, and an apparent extended gameplay video appeared in 2016. At the time, Xbox boss Phil Spencer said the game’s licensing rights complicated efforts to get it on the console. The versions that came to Switch and Xbox aren’t remasters, but upscaled versions of the original game.
“It is heartwarming and very special to see the outpouring of love and nostalgia for the game, it is amazing to have been part of the team that created something that has touched so many people in a positive way,” he wrote. “Disappointing that none of the parties involved in this re-release have made any attempt to involve that original team in any way. Feels shabby and disingenuous.”
Doak regularly tweets about the game and engages with fans. Last September, he posted a shot of himselef dressed like his in-game counterpart, and joked that players shouldn’t “come crying” to him if they have trouble unlocking the infamous Invincibility cheat. That’s one of the game’s most difficult challenges — you have to beat the Facility level in under 2 minutes, 5 seconds to get it. He’s spoken at length about the game’s development over the years, and tweeted a 1997 shot of the original development team on Wednesday.
This story is part of 12 Days of Tips, helping you make the most of your tech, home and health during the holiday season.
Microsoft 365, the most recent version of the Microsoft Office set of tools includes programs that you already use at home, school or work. Buying a Microsoft 365 membership is still the most popular way to access them.
On Jan. 11, Microsoft announced the release of Microsoft 365 Basic which costs $2 a month, or $20 for a yearly subscription. However, you can snag Microsoft 365 at no cost under some circumstances.
Microsoft’s suite of productivity software consists of classics like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook, as well as newer apps like Microsoft Teams, OneDrive and SharePoint.
The suite typically costs $20 to $100 every year for subscription access across devices and family members. Microsoft also has a standalone version of Microsoft Office for Windows and Mac, called Office Home and Student 2021, for a flat $150 — no subscription required.
Here are the versions of Office 365, Microsoft 365 and their apps that you can find online for free.
Get Microsoft Office 365 Education free if you’re a student or a teacher
If you’re a student, teacher or faculty member with an active school email address, you’re likely eligible to get access to Office 365 for free through Microsoft, with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and Teams, plus other classroom tools.
All you have to do is enter your school email address on this page on Microsoft’s website: Office 365 Education. In many cases, you’ll be instantly granted access thanks to an automated verification process. If you attend an institution that needs to be verified, it might take up to a month to confirm your eligibility.
How to get Microsoft Office suite free if you’re anyone else
Anyone can get a one-month free trial of Microsoft 365. However, it does require you to enter a credit card number. And if you don’t cancel before the month is up, you’ll be charged $100 for a one-year subscription to Microsoft 365 Family (formerly called Office 365 Home).
The good news is if you don’t need the full suite of Microsoft 365 tools, you can access a number of its apps online for free, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive, Outlook, Calendar, My Content, Skype, Designer and Clipchamp. Here’s how to get them:
2. Click Sign up for the free version of Office under the “Sign in” button.
3. Log in to your Microsoft account or create one for free. If you already have a Windows, Skype or Xbox Live login, you have an active Microsoft account.
4. Select the app you want to use and save your work in the cloud with OneDrive.
Use the browser-based version of the Microsoft Word app for free.
Screenshot by Alison DeNisco Rayome/CNET
So what’s the catch for the free version?
You may be saying, “Wait a minute, if I can get all of those apps for free, why pay for Microsoft 365 in the first place?” Well, the functionality of the free apps is limited: They only run in your web browser and you can only use them while you’re actively connected to the internet. They also have fewer features than the full Microsoft 365 versions.
There are still a number of benefits, however, including the ability to share links to your work and collaborate in real time, similar to what the Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) productivity tools allow. If you’re looking for basic versions of each of these apps, the free version should work well for you.
If you could get the same performance as an iPhone 14 for roughly half the price, wouldn’t you think it was worth getting? According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple may scrap the next version of its wallet-friendly iPhone SE, which was expected to arrive next year.
“The supply chain has received instructions from Apple indicating that the production and shipment plans for the 2024 iPhone SE 4 have been canceled rather than delayed,” Kuo wrote in a Medium post on Jan. 6.
If Kuo’s predictions are correct, only Apple knows the reasoning behind the cancellation. But research and media reports suggest there may be a very simple answer. More expensive iPhone models tend to be more popular, possibly leaving little incentive for Apple to continue pursuing cheaper phones like the iPhone SE.
Apple didn’t respond to CNET’s request for comment.
The third-gen iPhone SE, which debuted in March, starts at $429 and is essentially an iPhone 8 stuffed with the guts of an iPhone 13. CNET’s Patrick Holland called it a “mind-blowing value” in his iPhone SE (2022) review, but he also highlighted missing elements that make it feel dated, like its lack of a full-screen design or night mode for the camera.
Previous generations of the iPhone SE took a similar approach; the 2020 version essentially had the same design but had the iPhone 11’s chip. The 2016 model had the body of an iPhone 5S with the processor of an iPhone 6S. A rumored fourth-gen iPhone SE was expected to adopt a new design similar to the iPhone XR, according to YouTube personality and gadget leaker Jon Prosser.
To understand why Apple may have canceled its next iPhone SE, consider the changes Apple recently made in its iPhone 14 lineup. In a departure from the prior two years, Apple did not release a cheaper “Mini” version of its new flagship iPhone in 2022. Instead, it released a larger version of the regular iPhone 14 called the iPhone 14 Plus, which is $100 more expensive than the regular $799 iPhone 14, raising the barrier to entry for shoppers.
This change followed reports from Nikkei Asian Review and Kuo (via MacRumors) that Apple would scrap the iPhone Mini in 2022, with the former adding that the Mini model didn’t resonate with consumers. Taken together, the elimination of the Mini and reports that next year’s rumored iPhone SE may have been axed could indicate that Apple is pivoting away from releasing smaller, cheaper iPhones.
But Gene Munster, managing partner for tech investment firm Loup and a longtime Apple analyst, doesn’t see it that way. He believes the iPhone SE still plays an important role in Apple’s lineup because of its low price.
“It’s still, I think, the best bang for your buck when it comes to an iPhone,” he said.
Apple is rumored to scrap next year’s iPhone SE as it experiences high demand for more expensive phones like the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max (pictured)
James Martin/CNET
Evidence suggests that more expensive iPhones tend to be top sellers, which might help explain the shift. The average selling price of an iPhone rose 7% year over year in the third quarter of 2022, according to Counterpoint Research. The market research firm also reported in June that Apple dominated the global market for premium phones with a 62% share in the first quarter of 2022. It’s important to note that Counterpoint defines premium phones as devices that cost $400 and higher, meaning the third-gen iPhone SE would fall into that category since it starts at $429. The report, however, did say that Apple’s growth in the premium category largely came from the iPhone 13 lineup.
The pricier iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max also appear to be the stars of Apple’s new smartphone lineup so far. The Information reported that Apple cut production of the iPhone 14 Plus within two weeks of its launch, while research firm Trendforce says Apple boosted production of the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max. Kuo also said on Twitter in September that the iPhone 14 Pro Max was responsible for about 60% of Apple’s order increase for the Pro lineup, hinting that Apple’s most expensive new iPhone is also its most popular. A November 2022 report from Wave7 Research also said 38 out of 39 surveyed carrier service representatives said they didn’t have in-store inventory of the iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max.
The iPhone SE, meanwhile, has only accounted for roughly 5% to 8% of quarterly US iPhone sales over the past two years, said Josh Lowitz of Consumer Intelligence Research Partners. When looking at total volumes for the newest iPhone models in a given year, the Pro versions typically account for 35% to 40% of sales, while the iPhone SE makes up about 20%, according to Munster.
Carrier discounts have also made it easier to snag high-end phones at cheaper prices, especially when trading in an old device, as my colleague Eli Blumenthal pointed out following the iPhone 13’s launch. Many US shoppers also pay for their phones in monthly installment plans through carriers, which can make higher prices easier to swallow. Both of those factors can make the case for buying a less expensive iPhone with fewer features all the more challenging.
“Because you’re paying over such a long period of time … the $100 price difference, or even a $200 price difference, isn’t that much per month,” said Lowitz.
At the same time, Samsung has seen success in the market for lower-priced phones. Its Galaxy A phones, which typically cost hundreds of dollars less than its flagship Galaxy S phones, accounted for 58% of Samsung’s smartphone unit sales in 2021, according to Counterpoint Research data previously provided to CNET. Samsung’s Galaxy A phones have modern features not found on the iPhone SE, such as a camera with multiple lenses and larger screens, although they often run on less powerful processors than Samsung’s pricier phones.
The notion that Apple may have canceled the 2024 iPhone SE raises questions about the future of the SE line in general. Apple extended the SE branding to the Apple Watch in 2020 for the first time and launched a sequel to that product in September.
iPhone SE (2022): Apple’s Cheaper Phone Brings 5G to a Classic Design
The fact that Apple had brought the SE line to another product had made it seem like a more permanent fixture in Apple’s lineup. But if Kuo’s insight turns out to be accurate, the iPhone SE’s days may be numbered. And once you take a closer look at how Apple’s smartphone lineup has changed and the data around phone shipments, it’s easy to understand why.
But Munster isn’t convinced that cheaper iPhones like the SE are going away for good. Having a more affordable option makes it easier for Apple to achieve its broader goal of bringing more customers into its web of products and services.
“I think that plays an important role,” he said. “I don’t think Apple’s giving up on that price point.”
Whether you have a high-end PC gaming rig, the trusty desktop in your home office or a laptop on your dorm room desk, you’ll want to use a pair of the best PC speakers to make the most of your setup. Though a set of desktop speakers won’t be quite as immersive as a pair of noise-canceling headphones, they’re still a great way to improve the audio quality when you’re chatting on video calls, streaming movies or catching up on some online lectures. Plus, they allow you to stay aware of your surroundings and hear the doorbell, kids, pets or any other kind of chaos that may be happening in your home.
If you’re looking to bypass your laptop speaker and take audio experience to the next level, you should consider investing in external speakers. I’m not talking about a major stereo system: A small or portable desktop speaker can pick up the slack. Even budget or small speakers can boost sound quality enough that you’ll be shocked by your laptop speaker’s comparative quality.
You can also pair your PC with a Bluetooth speaker to augment the sound, but this list highlights the best in powered external speakers. That means they’ll need to be plugged in to power their built-in amplifiers.
Some of the desktop speakers on this list have analog connectivity, but most offer some kind of digital connection so you can plug them right into a computer with a USB cable. Others have Bluetooth, which lets you easily pair them with all your devices, including tablets and smartphones. As you might expect, better connectivity options add some cost to the speakers, but a few moderately priced offerings have excellent connectivity options too, in addition to more-than-decent sound quality with a surprisingly deep bass. Some of these computer speakers can even be positioned for surround sound.
Note that CNET hasn’t fully reviewed many of the items on this list, but I have listened to all the selected models. If you’re on the hunt for great sound from quality speakers, keep reading — the right speaker for your computer is sure to be here. Also, we’ll update this list of the best computer speakers periodically as new laptop and desktop computer speaker options hit the market.
Creative’s Pebble speakers have been around for a while and now come in a V2 version with a USB-C plug (a USB-A adapter is included) that powers the speaker, no extra power adapter required. They’re available for $25, while the earlier V1 version (with USB-A) can be had for around $20. Note that this V2 model does play a little louder and sounds better than the V1.
They don’t deliver huge sound and they’re light on the bass, but they’re surprisingly decent for their low price.
Edifier makes a ton of PC speakers, and they’re generally very good. We like the R1280DB Bluetooth Bookshelf speaker because it has all the features you want, including an optical input and Bluetooth capabilities in a fairly compact package that delivers very good sound for a decent price.
In terms of sound for the money, it’s hard to beat Creative’s Pebble Plus 2.1, which includes a sub for around $60 and sometimes as low as $40. The 4-inch sub isn’t exactly great looking, but it’s a black box that you can hide in a corner of your desk or underneath it.
This model is also powered by USB (there’s no power adapter), but you do have to connect it to your device with a standard 3.5mm aux-in cable (included). Don’t expect huge volume (it is powered by USB after all), but it delivers better sound than you might think for the money.
The Logitech Z407 is a compact system with a small subwoofer that doesn’t exactly have a premium feel (it’s an all-plastic affair and the satellite speakers are quite light), but it’s attractive and has some nice features. For starters, it’s simple to set up. You can use it in wired mode with an auxiliary 3.5mm cable or connect it to your computer via USB. But the majority of people will connect their devices to it via Bluetooth.
It comes with a hockey puck-sized controller (it’s powered by two AAA batteries) that doubles as a Bluetooth transceiver between any Bluetooth-enabled audio device and the speaker system. You can skip tracks forward and back by tapping on the top of the puck and turning the dial to control volume. It’s also worth noting that the speakers can be stood up vertically or horizontally. It’s a nifty design.
The sound is good at close range but the bass isn’t exactly tight (you can only expect so much for the price). This would work fine as an audio system in a small room, but just doesn’t have the juice to sound good in a larger room (it’s touted as having 80W of power but power ratings don’t mean all that much).
The most recent addition to the Audioengine family, the A1 speakers sound good for their compact size, particularly in terms of their clarity. Like the more expensive A2 Plus (see below), they’re a little bass shy, but if you’re using these at close range (as one tends to do if you’re looking at a computer screen), the bass will seem ample. You can connect a subwoofer to them, but that would substantially raise the price for the package. In a small room, they could work as your main speaker system, but they just don’t have enough power for a larger room.
The nice thing about them is that they’re nice looking. They’re also simple to set up and wireless, so you can connect your computer — or another device — via Bluetooth. You just have to hit the pair button on the back to engage pairing mode. A set of speaker wires connects the two speakers (the left speaker has the amplifier and all the connectivity options). You can also use the auxiliary-in port to connect your computer with an included cable.
If you can’t afford Audioengine’s $500 A5 Plus Wireless (see below) — or don’t like its somewhat large footprint — the A2 Plus is a good alternative, albeit one that produces less bass and just isn’t as loud or full sounding. Still, it sounds really good for a mini bookshelf-size speaker and has a glossy piano finish that gives it a premium look.
I reviewed an earlier version of the A2 Plus back in 2013. It now has Bluetooth connectivity with support for AptX streaming (forAptX-compatible devices), but it still uses a standard 3.5mm-to-3.5mm audio cable that you plug into your device’s headphone jack or auxiliary output.
For $269, it delivers excellent sound in a compact, attractively minimalist design, which is why it appears to be so popular at the moment. Some sites have it back-ordered or not available in certain color options (I personally like the white).
Canadian speaker company Fluance is known for delivering speakers with a lot of bang for your buck and its attractively designed Ai41 powered bookshelf speakers do just that for $250. While they don’t weigh as much or have quite the build quality of Audioengine speakers, they do offer strong sound and good connectivity options, including an optical digital input and Bluetooth options. I tried the white and bamboo version but the speakers are also available in black.
They’re about the same size as Audioengine’s A5 Plus speakers (see below) but cost half the price. I can’t say they sound quite as good as the A5 Plus speakers, but they do sound clear and well-balanced and have just enough bass to make you think they aren’t bass shy (there is a subwoofer connection if you want to add a sub). You can get a little more bass by placing them near a wall.
A remote is included for not only raising and lowering volume but tweaking the treble and bass settings. These will fill a small room with sound. Note that if you want a wired connection to your computer via the headphone port, you’ll need an RCA to 3.5mm cable (less than $10 on Amazon) — it’s not included.
The Ai41 have 5-inch drivers while the step-up Ai61 have 6.5-inch drivers. The Ai61 does offer more little bass and power for $50 more. However, the Ai41 is already fairly large for a set of computer speakers. They could also be connected to your TV via the optical connection.
Audioengine’s powered A5 speakers have been around for several years and have received some technology upgrades over time. The wired-only version is $399, but if you want to add a Bluetooth option, the price goes up to $499. You can connect to your PC either with a cable or via Bluetooth, but having Bluetooth is nice if you want these speakers to double as standard bookshelf speakers.
As you might expect, they have significantly more bass than Audioengine’s smaller A2 Plus, and they resemble traditional monitor speakers. With a built-in 150W amp, they deliver clean, dynamic sound with lots of volume, and will rock a medium-size room without a problem.
Harman Kardon’s SoundSticks have been around for 20 years and have always been a favorite of Mac users because, well, they — and their transparent aesthetics — were marketed from the get-go to owners of the early iMacs.
The SoundSticks 4 offers some design changes over earlier iterations, particularly to the subwoofer, which has a cleaner, sleeker look without the plastic funnel inside. The SoundSticks 4 are rated for 140 watts of power — theSoundSticks 3 were rated for 40 watts. Also, Bluetooth connectivity now comes standard (with the SoundSticks 3, there was a step-up model you had to buy to get Bluetooth). The speaker comes in two color options — one with white trim and one with black.
The system is a little more compact than you’d think seeing some of the pictures, and it does deliver strong sound with bass that will rattle a table at higher volumes if you leave the sub on your desk (the sub is actually slightly smaller at 5.25 inches compared to 6 inches for the SoundSticks 3). From what I remember of the SoundSticks 3, this new model does sound fuller.
The only fault I found with it was the lack of a wired digital connection. Like the previous version, there’s an analog cable that you plug into the headphone jack or auxiliary output on your computer or another device. As a result, I tended to just use the Bluetooth, which gives you more flexibility with the placement of the sub (the power cord is a little short). That said, you do have to connect the elegant mini tower satellite speakers to the sub with cables that are color-labeled for easy hookup, so the sub has to stay pretty close to the satellites.
It’s also worth noting that you don’t have to be a Mac user to buy these speakers. They’re compatible with any audio device that has Bluetooth or a 3.5mm audio-out port.
Razer’s second generation of its Leviathan gaming soundbar, aptly named the Leviathan V2, gets prettier — and at $250 as opposed to $200, pricier. And while it gains Bluetooth wireless support, it loses some other useful connections; say bye-bye to analog and optical, for example. Still, it’s a compact and solid alternative to headphones or a beefier surround setup that might be overkill or require too much space.
Best Buy often has great deals on electronics that are designed to make your life easier and just plain better. That’s especially true for daily deals, which feature just one product on sale for the day, usually at incredibly low prices.
Today’s daily deal is perfect for all PC gaming enthusiasts. This 24-inch LG LED monitor, originally $200, is now down to just $100 (save $100). You can have this for just half its retail price. But the deal only lasts for the next few hours, so hurry while it’s still available.
Upgrade your gaming station with this monitor that’s coated with antiglare for minimizing reflections. It’s powered by AMD Radeon FreeSync technology that eliminates tearing and stuttering on the screen, allowing you to play AAA titles smoothly.
The IPS display has a wide viewing angle that delivers bright, vivid visuals from almost any direction. It comes with full HD 1920×1080 resolution, which delivers a solid gaming or video experience without undue strain on your graphics card.
It also has a 5-millisecond response time and a 75Hz response rate that delivers solid performance for precise gaming and video work. There are two HDMI ports and VGA inputs on this monitor.
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Boasting a cast sheet that looks like a guest list for an Oscars afterparty, Poker Face is a new murder-of-the-week show from Knives Out creator Rian Johnson that’s exclusive to Peacock in the US. Likened to a 21st century update of Columbo, the whodunit series features Russian Doll star Natasha Lyonne in the lead role as Charlie, an accidental sleuth with the uncanny ability to sense when someone is telling a lie.
Each new episode brings a whole new mystery for Charlie to solve along with an array of celeb cameos, with Adrien Brody, Stephanie Hsu, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ron Perlman, Ellen Barkin and Chloë Sevigny all making appearances during this first season. In his review of Poker Face, CNET’s Rich Trenholm described it as “highly snackable comfort viewing,” and it looks like a show no crime drama fan will want to miss. Read on to learn how to watch, no matter where you are in the world.
Release dates for Poker Face
In the US and Canada, the first four episodes of Poker Face became available for streaming on Thursday, Jan. 26, with new episodes added weekly every Thursday at 12 a.m. PT (3 a.m. ET). The series finale goes out on March 9.
The show will also be available to watch Down Under via Australian streaming service Stan beginning Friday, Jan. 27.
Perhaps you’re traveling abroad and want to stream Peacock while away from home. With a VPN, you’re able to virtually change your location on your phone, tablet or laptop to get access to TV shows and movies from anywhere in the world. There are other good reasons to use a VPN for streaming, too.
A VPN is the best way to stop your ISP from throttling your speeds by encrypting your traffic. Using a VPN is also a great idea if you’re traveling and find yourself connected to a Wi-Fi network, and you want to add an extra layer of privacy for your devices and logins. Streaming TV can be a bit smoother with a reliable, quality VPN that’s passed our tests and security standards.
You can use a VPN to stream content legally as long as VPNs are legal in your country and you have a valid subscription to the streaming service you’re using. The US and Canada and are among the countries where VPNs are legal, but we advise against streaming or downloading content on illegal torrent sites. We recommend ExpressVPN, but you may opt for another provider from our best list such as Surfshark or NordVPN.
If you’re looking for a secure and dependable VPN, our Editors’ Choice is ExpressVPN. It’s fast, works on multiple devices and provides stable streams. It’s normally $13 per month, but you can sign up for ExpressVPN and save 35% — the equivalent of $8.32 per month — if you get an annual subscription.
Follow the VPN provider’s instructions for installation, and choose a country where Poker Face will be streaming. We’ve successfully tested using Peacock and an ExpressVPN server in New York City, so that’s one location you could choose to watch this much-anticipated mystery show.
Before you open the streaming app, make sure you are connected to your VPN using your selected region. If you want to stream Poker Face on more than one device, it’s possible you’ll need to configure each one to ensure you are signed in. Go to settings and check your network connections to verify you’re logged in and connected to your VPN account.
If you run into issues with streaming, first make sure your VPN is up and running on its encrypted IP address. Double-check that you’ve followed installation instructions correctly and you’ve picked the right geographical area for viewing. If you still encounter connection problems, you may need to reboot your device. Close all apps and windows, restart your device and connect to your VPN first. Note that some streaming services have restrictions on VPN access.
As for most Peacock Originals, you’ll need a Peacock Premium subscription to watch Poker Face. It costs $5 a month for limited commercials, or $10 a month for Peacock Premium Plus, which removes any ad-related interruptions as well as giving you the option to download select content to watch offline.
Usually, that runs at much as $99 per year. But for a limited time, Peacock is offering new (and some returning) Premium and Premium Plus subscribers a big discount on annual memberships: just $30 for Premium and $35 for Premium Plus with the discount code NEWYEAR23.
Before you take the plunge, though, note that you may be able to get Peacock Premium for free, with certain cable companies like Spectrum and Comcast currently offering discounts and extended free trial promotions.
Like the US, Poker Face will be available to watch in Canada from Thursday, Jan. 26 via Citytv Plus.
The on-demand service is currently only available as an add-on channel as part of an Amazon Prime Video subscription which will costs CA$5 a month, that’s in addition to the CA$10 fee for Amazon Prime Video.
However, as both offer a 30-day free trial to new and returning subscribers, you could watch a large chunk of Poker Face while paying absolutely nothing for a whole month.
The great news for Aussie sleuth-show fans is that streaming service Stan will be showing Poker Face pretty much in tandem with Peacock in the US from Friday, Jan. 27.
Stan comes in three favors: Stan Basic allows you one SD stream for AU$10 per month, Stan Standard gives you three HD streams for AU$14 per month, while Stan Premium gets you four 4K streams for AU$19 per month.
However, newcomers to the service can take advantage of a 30-day free trial, meaning you can watch a big chunk of Poker Face without paying a cent.
It looks like there’s a wait in store for UK viewers hoping to watch Rian Johnson’s latest project, with no release date or broadcaster currently confirmed for the region. With Peacock Originals like Girls5eva and Bel-Air having previously been available on Sky TV and its on-demand service Now, we’d expect that’s where Poker Face will eventually end up.
In particular, I’d like to see longer-lasting batteries, more photographic features and faster charging that doesn’t require an expensive adapter and more photographic features.
Samsung typically releases new Galaxy S devices in the first couple of months of the year, and it will likely maintain that schedule in 2023. The next Samsung Unpacked is set for Feb. 1, with the Galaxy S23 almost certainly on the agenda.
Samsung leads the smartphone industry, with 21% of the worldwide market in the third quarter of 2022, according to Counterpoint Research. Upgrading core features like the camera and battery could help it maintain that top spot, especially as it faces increased competition from Apple and Google.
Longer battery life for the regular Galaxy S23
The Galaxy S22
Lisa Eadicicco/CNET
Battery life can never be long enough, but the standard-issue Galaxy S device is in particular need of a boost. The 6.1-inch Galaxy S22 generally lived up to Samsung’s claims of all-day battery life, but sometimes just barely. After using it for a month straight, I noticed the battery level dipped roughly to 30% or 40% by 9 p.m., even with the always-on display turned off and the screen’s refresh rate set to standard. That’s enough to get through a work day, but you’ll likely want to pack a charger if you have after-work plans or a long commute home.
The Galaxy S22 has the smallest battery (3,700-mAh capacity) of the three phones in the Galaxy S22 lineup, and it shows. For example, I was pleasantly surprised when the 6.6-inch Galaxy S22 Plus, which has a larger 4,500-mAh capacity, lasted for about a day and a half when I reviewed it in February. I also had the refresh rate set to high, which typically drains battery more quickly. The Galaxy S22 Ultra, which has a 6.8-inch screen and a 5,000-mAh battery, had similar battery life.
It makes sense that the Galaxy S22 line’s smallest phone would also have the smallest battery. But I hope Samsung finds a way to improve battery life on next year’s 6.1-inch Galaxy phone, whether it’s through better power efficiency or a larger physical battery. After all, Apple made upgrades to the iPhone 13 Mini that gave it an extra two to three hours of battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Mini. Battery life is the main complaint I had about the Galaxy S22, and addressing that would make the Galaxy S23 an even more compelling choice for Android fans who prefer smaller phones.
Korean news outlet The Elec indicates that could indeed be the case, as it reports that Samsung aims to increase the Galaxy S23’s battery capacity by about 5%.
More clever camera features
From left, cameras on the Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S22 Plus and Galaxy S22.
Lisa Eadicicco/CNET
The Galaxy S22’s 50-megapixel camera and the Galaxy S22 Ultra’s 108-megapixel camera capture impressively colorful and detailed photos. I only wish there was more you could do with those cameras when it comes to editing and software features.
The Galaxy S22 lineup has shooting options like panorama, night mode, portrait mode, slow motion, super slow motion and Director’s View, which lets you record video using two different lenses simultaneously. Then there’s Single Take, which creates multiple stylized shots with a single press of the shutter button. You can also download the Expert Raw app to get more granular control over photo settings.
But not much has changed between the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S22 when it comes to camera features and shooting modes. I’d love to see Samsung take a page from Google, which regularly adds nifty camera tricks that feel practical rather than gimmicky. For example, Google introduced a new feature on the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro called Photo Unblur, which sharpens low-quality photos, even ones taken with an older camera. Photo Unblur builds on Face Unblur, a previous Pixel 6 and 6 Pro camera feature I also appreciate. As the name implies, Face Unblur freezes moving subjects that may otherwise look blurry.
Features like these show that Google is not just thinking about camera quality, but also ways to eliminate everyday annoyances with mobile photography. Many of Samsung’s updates, on the other hand, feel aimed at giving content creators more tools for capturing different types of shots and video clips.
While the Galaxy S23 likely won’t launch for several more weeks, Samsung is already making enhancements to the cameras on its current Galaxy phones. It added a new feature to the Expert Raw app that helps stargazers take better photos of constellations, similar to Google’s Astrophotography feature for Pixel phones. There’s also a new Camera Assistant app that lets you enable or disable certain features, like a faster shutter or automatic lens switching.
The Galaxy S22 Plus (left) and Ultra both support 45-watt fast charging. But you have to purchase an adapter separately.
Lisa Eadicicco/CNET
The Galaxy S22 lineup supports fast charging of up to 25 watts for the Galaxy S22 and 45 watts for the Galaxy S22 Plus and Ultra. But you have to purchase a separate charger to do so. Samsung charges $50 for the 45-watt charger and $35 for the 25-watt charger, although you can often find them for less through retailers like Amazon and Walmart. In some scenarios, I also didn’t notice much of a difference between the pricier 45-watt charger and Samsung’s less expensive 25-watt charger when powering up the Galaxy S22 Plus, which you can read more about here.
With the Galaxy S23, I’d like to see a more noticeable improvement in charging speeds, as well as more affordable charger options. The OnePlus 10 Pro, for example, offers either 65- or 80-watt fast charging depending on your region, both of which are speedier than what Samsung has to offer on paper. OnePlus also includes a compatible power adapter in the box.
Samsung and Apple stopped including power adapters in their product packaging to cut down on waste, which is an admirable cause. But I at least wish Samsung would let you choose to include a fast-charging compatible adapter as an option for a discounted price when ordering a new phone, similar to the way it lets you select a storage option or add Samsung Care Plus.
If rumors turn out to be accurate, the base Galaxy S23 model might have the same 25-watt charging speed as the Galaxy S22. That’s according to Ice Universe, a Twitter account with a history of publishing details about unreleased Samsung products.
Samsung is already doing a lot right with the Galaxy S22, particularly when it comes to software support and display quality. But as year-over-year smartphone upgrades have become more incremental than revolutionary, focusing on core elements like the camera and battery are as important as ever.
Somewhere in the realm between cellphones and computers is a sweet spot where tablets hit. While cellphones provide mobility and connection without Wi-Fi, computers can accomplish bigger tasks and aren’t as portable.
Tablets marry the components of the two devices while keeping things very simple. They’re incredibly versatile tools that can be used for work, school or home. Right now, you can grab a refurbished tablet for as little as $15 on Woot.
Don’t be fooled by the price or the refurbished status. Two of our favorite tablets for 2023 (the Amazon Fire HD 10 and the Amazon Fire HD 8) were featured during this sale. The Fire HD8 tablets have sold out since the sale went online today, but you can still grab Kindle Paperwhite, Kindle Oasis and Amazon Fire 7 tablets.
A well-crafted resume is crucial for job seekers who want to stand out from the competition, but the building process can be confusing and overwhelming. You have to figure out the right formatting, level of detail and tone for your experience. Fortunately, there are resume-writing services that can help with these decisions.
Some of what you’ll need to include in your resume depends on the industry you want to work in. While it can vary, employers will likely look at your work history and examine how concisely you present the information, how long you held positions and how well your experience matches the job you’re applying for.
When creating this list, we examined multiple factors such as affordability, ease of use, accessibility, the company’s privacy policy and more. The best resume-building services offer suggestions, templates and sometimes even on-hand professionals to help you build a resume that will put your best foot forward to potential employers. If you’re currently unemployed, check out our list of resources for you and your situation, as well as information on health insurance, student loans and housing.
Some of our picks for best resume writing services are free, some enlist the help of professional writers and some require a subscription or one-time payment.
A well-constructed resume can help you stand out during a job search.
Nitchakul Sangpetch/EyeEm/Getty Images
Build-it-yourself resume options
If you need some guidance on creating or updating a resume but aren’t ready to spring for professional service, check out these online resume-building tools to help you find templates and guides for doing it yourself.
We’ve also included information on each services’ privacy policy. Many of these apps make resumes — which generally contain some personal information — publicly available. If the site isn’t secure, you may be at risk for identity theft or scams.
Resume.com is a completely free resume writer that offers dozens of templates for creating your resume or cover letter, as well as job boards and career advice. You have the option to upload and edit an existing resume, create a new one or edit one of the sample resumes offered on the site. It’s intuitive and easy to use, and it creates a professional-looking final product.
When starting from scratch, you’ll go section by section, entering your education, employment history, hobbies and interests, professional skills, languages and references. Resume.com provides question prompts and tips for guidance, as well as career-specific examples you can add if you’re struggling to find the right words.
You can also choose to forgo any of these sections, rearrange sections and add custom ones depending on what you need. As you update and save each section, you can see how it will appear on the page on your resume preview to the right. You can also change the template, font style and size, or spacing any time and see it update in real time in the preview.
Once you’re done, you can download your new resume (in PDF, DocX, RTF or TXT format), create a custom URL or print it out. You also have the option to upload it to Indeed, a job search site that partners with Resume.com. The account you make will work with both Indeed and Resume.com.
On the privacy side, Resume.com does collect user information. If you want to delete your account, simply click your profile icon and then Account. Clicking Close My Account deletes your account and your data. If you didn’t make an account, you can still choose Delete Guest Data. You can also request your data, and the company will send you an email with what it has collected.
Of the reviews on Trustpilot, 71% are positive, but some negative reviews speak of the difficulty unsubscribing from paid services, so read carefully as you use the free aspects of this service.
The website Resume Genius says you can “make a professional resume in 12 minutes.” We tested it out and indeed had a solid first draft of an easy resume completed in about 10 minutes… give or take a few minutes spent looking up dates.
You can create a new resume or upload a document for editing. Resume Genius takes you step by step through the process, starting with a series of questions (“Do you have work experience?” and “What’s your highest level of education?”). Your answers lead you to boxes of additional information.
Resume Genius is particularly helpful with filling in sections like “work responsibilities.” You can search for a position and see prewritten options that you can add or edit, or just fill in your own. When finished, you can easily toggle between different templates to see what looks best for the final product. You also have the option to directly share your resume with Indeed or Resume Library. Note that if you register on the site, Resume Genius does collect personally identifiable information and may share it with third parties for advertising and other purposes, according to its privacy policy.
The site can also help you build cover letters and curriculum vitae. After you input all your information, you can choose different layout styles and colors. It’s easy to move through, but you have to do it in order and fill in all the information before continuing. Resume Genius also offers blog-style articles with tips for creating resumes, as well as examples of resumes, CVs and cover letters for specific jobs. The site also generates recommended jobs near you.
You can download the resume you create for $2.95 (which starts a 14-day trial for Resume Genius Pro), or $7.95 (which kicks off a monthly subscription plan). However, if you fail to cancel your trial before the 14 days are up, you’ll be billed for $24.95 every four weeks, according to the site. The monthly plan bills annually at $95.40.
On the downside, the account deletion process is buried in the Terms of Service. According to Resume Genius, full data erasure can take up 30 days, but they may retain “certain information in accordance with privacy laws.”
It’s free to create a resume or post your current resume on Indeed. If you’re building a new one, you can choose between eight templates. The resume sections are highlighted and when you click, each section expands specific text fields. You can swap templates at any time without losing your work, too. There are also options for toggling sections on and off, as well as rearranging them. When you’re finished, you can download a free PDF of your work history.
Indeed Resume Builder also offers optional professional advice for your new resume. After you download the resume you created, you’ll get a prompt and can click Get Resume Help From a Real Person.
Fill out a short questionnaire about what type of help you want, upload your resume (it’s OK if you haven’t built one). This service usually costs $89 unless you’ve applied to at least 10 jobs using your Indeed resume. According to Indeed, if you haven’t received an interview request within 60 days of receiving your new resume, you can request a one-time rewrite of your resume.
For $19, you can take a quiz and get feedback from a professional to get you started. You can also use Indeed’s automated instant report system for free. The system returns quick tips to improve your resume.
Indeed’s privacy policy says that it does collect and share user data with third party providers to connect job seekers with employers and improve services. According to Indeed’s privacy policy, you can request account or personal data deletion, as well as request that your data not be shared while your account is active.
CNET reached out to Indeed for more information and we’ll update when we hear back.
CV Engineer is an easy-to-use app that creates a professional-looking resume. With 16 templates to choose from, you can tap to enter information into all of the usual sections — career, education, skills and so on. When you tap on each section, you can tap through the bottom toolbar to get advice on what type of information to add, as well as resume examples to show you how the section should look. You can add custom sections, or delete sections as well.
CV Engineer lets you send or download your completed resume for free, but you can upgrade to CV Engineer Pro for a one-time payment of $4.49. This gives you access to unlimited downloads and the Scan My CV feature, which can detect common mistakes and suggest improvements, such as places where you can add more information. It also offers interview advice and a cover letter builder.
However, CV Engineer does collect personal information and can share it with Google Play Services and Firebase Analytics, according to its privacy policy. The app is both free to download and ad-free.
Resume Star 2 isn’t the most visually stunning resume design app for iOS, but it gets the job done: Tap each section of a resume, fill in your information and it will fill in a traditional template (you only get one layout). The app offers some example resumes you can start with and edit if you want: cashier, dental hygienist, receptionist, waitress, mechanic and senior manager.
You can add or delete any sections you like without needing to hit save every time you add in information, and you can see your resume update as you go. The autosave feature makes it easy to toggle quickly between the different sections as well. At the end, you’ll have a basic resume ready to go.
The app’s interface doesn’t offer as much guidance about how to write your resume or what types of information to include by itself. If you need extra help, tap the information icon in the bottom left and choose the Resume Writing Guide. This will open up a crash course on resume writing in your mobile browser. It also includes a job search feature.
The app collects payment via donations: The app connects to iCloud, and you can export your resume as a PDF to anywhere, and if you are happy with the service, you can choose the $6 “helped a bit” tier, a standard purchase of $10, or the “really helped me” tier for $25.
The site does not collect personally identifiable information without user consent, which seems to make it one of the more secure options available.
Intelligent CV’s Resume Builder App offers 42 resume templates and allows you to change font colors. Each resume section appears on a list, and you can move through sections in whichever order they choose, save, and go on to another. You also have the option to add, delete or rearrange sections such as education, experience and skills. Tap Help in each section for a little bit of extra guidance.
Once you’re finished, you can download your document for free as a PDF, which you can then save on your device or send via email or text.
Resume Builder App has one of the stronger privacy policies of the bunch: The app does not collect personally identifiable information, though third-party services (including Google Play services and analytics firms) may collect information.
On the downside, the app is ad-supported and ads for other resume creators do pop up, which can get confusing. The app also offers less guidance than some of the other services, which means it’s not a great option if you’re new to resumes.
VisualCV has an easy-to-use interface that lets you build your resume in the way that works best for you. After signing up, you can upload an existing resume, begin with a prewritten sample or start entirely from scratch. Use the basic editor to input information in a list form, the visual editor to edit directly on the resume and the preview to see changes made on either version in real time. Revision history is also available.
The free basic edition allows you to select from over a dozen professional templates to create, edit and download one resume as a PDF. You can also create one free cover letter.
Unfortunately, you can’t download or share additional resumes without purchasing VisualCV Pro. Upgrading also unlocks more templates, unlimited creations, downloading, career tracking and a resume website. The website URL goes through VisualCV, but can be shared online, like a paperless resume. You can choose the quarterly plan for $15 a month or a $24 monthly plan.
The site includes a job search feature, allowing you to find and directly apply to jobs in your area. In terms of privacy, VisualCV’s policy said that it does not sell, trade, rent or license personal information to third parties.
If you want to find a professional writer to edit your resume or create a brand-new one for you from scratch, check out some of the offerings below to find the best resume writing service for your budget and needs.
If you’re totally lost and are willing to invest several hundred dollars into your job search, ResumeSpice is a resume writing and career coach service created by recruiters that connects you with a “resume expert” to build your CV from scratch.
Once you choose, you’ll fill out a short questionnaire and schedule a phone consultation with a resume expert to discuss your experience, job search and career goals. The expert will take that information and turn around a personalized resume draft within two business days. You can review the draft and request any changes, and you’ll get the final version in PDF and Word formats.
An entry-level resume costs $449, a professionally written resume costs $569, and an executive resume costs $689. You can also add a cover letter, LinkedIn profile, interview coaching or other services to help you be more competitive in the job market.
ResumeWriters.com offers a guarantee: If you don’t get a job interview with a potential employer within two months of getting your resume, they’ll rewrite it for free. The service claims that in the 10 years and tens of thousands of resumes completed under this guarantee, it averages fewer than five requests for rewrites per year.
To use the resume writing service, submit your current resume or career information on the site, and an experienced resume writer will contact you to assess your materials and plan out what you need. You’ll get a first draft back within 72 hours, and can work with the writer on revisions until you’re satisfied with the result.
ResumeWriters offers student, professional, executive and career-change resume services, as well as CV services for those conducting their job search in fields specific to the military, IT and research. The resume services cost $170 for the student level and $200 for the professional with a cover letter, one-on-one consultation and LinkedIn profile. There is even a comprehensive career change package with the previous package benefits plus a post-interview follow-up letter for $250, and an executive package with its most experienced writers for $300.
Zipjob offers professional resume writers who optimize your resume to get through the applicant tracking system software used by the majority of employers to automatically scan and sort resumes. An expert writes your resume and scans it through the ATS to ensure it will make it through to the hiring manager’s desk.
To use the service, upload your resume or fill out a form to start from scratch. You’ll be matched with a professional resume writer who will work with you to improve it, and will then scan the final product to make sure it passes through the screening algorithms. Depending on which package you choose, your resume will be ready in three to seven days.
Choose from three packages: Launch (resume writing and unlimited revisions for $139), Fast Track (adds a cover letter and a 60-day interview guarantee for $189) or Premium (adds a top resume writer, LinkedIn profile optimization, future resume updates and expedited delivery for $299).
Find My Profession offers professional resume writing services as well as career coaching. Every resume gets reviewed by two different consultants.
You’ll find resume writing packages that include entry-level, professional, C-level and executive resume writer services, as well as IT, engineering and federal resume writer options. In each, you can choose a base, premium or VIP level package depending on your needs. For example, the professional resume package starts at $595 for a resume that is compatible with automated systems and goes up to $695 to add a cover letter and $895 to add a LinkedIn profile.
You’ll get the first draft of your resume within three to five business days after your consultation with a writer. Or, upgrade to a priority service for another $149 to get it within 48 hours.
If we can believe all the rumors and leaks, Apple, Samsung, Google and OnePlus may have a whole new wave of new phones coming this year.
Samsung and OnePlus will be among the first to release new devices. Samsung is expected to announce the Galaxy S23 on Feb. 1, while the OnePlus 11 5G will launch globally on Feb. 7.
Though it’s hard to predict exactly what’s in store for the smartphone industry in 2023, it’s possible to make some educated guesses, because many companies stick to the same launch routine each year. The iPhone 15 lineup, for example, is expected to arrive in September, possibly with USB-C charging for the first time. The Galaxy S23 Ultra could have Samsung’s new 200-megapixel camera sensor.
Such launches would come after smartphones took subtle but important steps forward in 2022. The iPhone 14, for example, gained satellite connectivity for emergencies and car-crash detection, while Google found more ways to make use of its custom Tensor chip in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Samsung, meanwhile, gave its flagship Galaxy S lineup a fresh look and an upgraded camera.
Here are the new phones we’re likely to see in 2023, based on previous launch cycles, rumors and reports.
Apple iPhone 15 lineup
The iPhone 14 lineup.
James Martin/CNET
What we’re expecting: Apple’s new iPhone family usually launches in September, and we have no reason to believe 2023 will be any different. The adoption of USB-C charging is one of the biggest changes we’re expecting to see on Apple’s next-generation iPhones.
The European Union recently mandated that all new phones sold in the region must support USB-C charging by 2024. Apple said it would comply with these rules but did not specify whether that means we’ll see a shift to USB-C starting in 2023. It’s also not confirmed if a USB-C iPhone would get a global release, or if it would remain solely a European model.
Otherwise, we’re likely to see routine changes such as some camera upgrades and a new processor. TF International Securities Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is known for making pretty accurate predictions about upcoming Apple products, tweeted that Apple may do more to distinguish the iPhone 15 Pro from the regular iPhone 15.
It already made a step in that direction with the iPhone 14 generation by keeping features like the Dynamic Island and new A16 Bionic processor exclusive to the Pro line. What’s more interesting, however, is the idea that Apple could further differentiate the larger iPhone 15 Pro Max from the smaller iPhone 15 Pro, according to Kuo.
The main difference between the regular Pro and Pro Max comes down to screen size. Giving the Pro Max some extra perks could further convince shoppers to splurge on Apple’s biggest (and most expensive) iPhone. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also believes Apple could change the name of the iPhone Pro Max to the iPhone Ultra in the future to better align with other products like the Apple Watch Ultra.
Why I’m excited about it: The iPhone’s long-anticipated transition to USB-C is arguably the biggest reason to get excited about Apple’s next smartphone. The switch means iPhone users will finally be able to charge their iPhone, iPad and Mac with the same type of charging cable, reducing friction and making the iPhone that much more convenient. I’m also looking forward to seeing whether Apple further distinguishes the iPhone 15 Pro Max from the iPhone 15 Pro. I’ve argued that Apple needs to give its supersized iPhones more functionality that takes advantage of their larger screens, similar to the iPad.
OnePlus 11 5G
The OnePlus website in China gives us a peek at what we might expect when the OnePlus 11 launches globally in February.
OnePlus
What we’re expecting: The OnePlus 11 5G is already available in China, but the new phone will be launching globally on Feb. 7. Based on what we’ve learned from OnePlus China’s website, the new phone will have a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 100-watt fast charging. That’s a step up from the 80W fast charging that OnePlus offered on last year’s device, although unfortunately those speeds were capped at 65W on the US model.
The OnePlus 11 5G will also have a 50-megapixel main camera, 48-megapixel ultrawide camera and 32-megapixel telephoto camera. That lines up with previous specifications from well-known leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer that were published on the blog GadgetGang.
Why I’m excited about it: For a company that made its name as the “flagship killer,” OnePlus’ prices have inched closer to those of the rivals it aims to undercut in recent years. That said, OnePlus still has a reputation for selling reasonably priced devices that pack a lot of high-end features such as superfast charging.
The OnePlus 10 Pro came really close to being a superb iPhone competitor, as my colleague Andrew Lanxon wrote when he reviewed the device. But a slightly disappointing camera and restrictions such as a lack of 80-watt charging in the US held it back from being as great as it could be. Hopefully OnePlus addresses these criticisms in its next-generation device.
Now playing:Watch this:The Most Exciting Phones I Want to See in 2023
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Samsung Galaxy S23 lineup
Samsung’s Galaxy S22 lineup.
Lisa Eadicicco/CNET
What we’re expecting: Based on the rumors, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 could bring some noteworthy upgrades to the camera and design — two areas that have traditionally been a big focus for the South Korean tech giant.
The rumored Galaxy S23 Ultra could include a 200-megapixel main camera. In mid-January, Samsung announced a new image sensor capable of taking 200-megapixel photos, fueling more speculation that it will arrive in the Galaxy S23 Ultra.That sounds like a huge jump from the Galaxy S22 Ultra’s 108-megapixel main sensor on paper.
Samsung may also give the regular Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus a tweaked design that more closely matches that of the Ultra model. Images from reliable leaker Hemmerstoffer suggest Samsung will eliminate the camera bump from the S23 and S23 Plus, replacing it with the protruding lenses found on the Galaxy S22 Ultra. Images were published on the tech blogs Digit and Smartprix in partnership with Hemmerstoffer.
Although we don’t know precisely what to expect in terms of performance, Samsung usually puts Qualcomm’s latest mobile chip in the new version of its phones that launch in the United States and certain other markets. That means we will likely see the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in Samsung’s next Galaxy phone. The new chip offers better power efficiency, ray tracing for improved aesthetics in mobile games and upgraded AI that can better separate you from your Zoom background, among other enhancements. The analyst Kuo even believes Samsung could ditch its own Exynos processors and rely solely on Qualcomm for the Galaxy S23.
Why I’m excited about it: Smartphone cameras have already gotten so sophisticated that I’m curious to see whether a 200-megapixel sensor actually makes a meaningful difference. Either way, it’ll be interesting to see how Samsung pushes the camera experience forward in the S23 lineup given the increased competition from Google’s Pixel series in recent years. I’m also in favor of the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus’ rumored design change to more closely resemble the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Based on the renders, it looks cleaner and sleeker compared with the Galaxy S22’s camera bump.
Google Pixel 7A
The Google Pixel 6A.
Lisa Eadicicco/CNET
What we’re expecting: If Google maintains its tradition, we could see a cheaper version of the Pixel 7 known as the Pixel 7A launch in the spring or summer time frame. Rumors about the Pixel 7A are scarce right now. But developer Kuba Wojciechowski says he found details possibly pertaining to the Pixel 7A in the Android codebase, suggesting that some fairly significant upgrades are in store.
Wojciechowski’s findings indicate the Pixel 7A could have a screen with a higher refresh rate of 90Hz and wireless charging — two characteristics that are noticeably absent from the Pixel 6A. Leaked renders from Hemmerstoffer that were once again published on Smartprix also suggest the Pixel 7A will have a very similar design as its predecessor.
The Pixel 7A could also include the same Tensor G2 processor that powers the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro as well as a camera setup that includes wide and ultrawide sensors. That’s if the Pixel 7A follows in the same footsteps as the Pixel 6A, of course.
Why I’m excited about it: Google’s A-series Pixel phones are seriously impressive from a value standpoint. That’s why the Pixel 6A has received a CNET Editors’ Choice award and is our favorite Android phone under $500. If Google manages to address the Pixel 6A’s very few shortcomings while maintaining the same price of $449, it’ll be an even more formidable challenger to Samsung in the affordable phone market.
Google Pixel 8 lineup
The Pixel 7 Pro (left) and Pixel 7 (right).
Andrew Lanxon/CNET
What we’re expecting: Google’s Pixel 7 and 7 Pro have only been out since mid-October 2022, but rumors have already started to surface about the Pixel 8 family. German tech blog WinFuture reports that it found references to two unreleased Pixel smartphones in publicly available code. The findings indicate that these two devices are codenamed “Shiba” and “Husky” and that they’re powered by a new processor codenamed “Zuma.” The code also suggests these devices will run on Android 14 and include 12GB of RAM, according to WinFuture.
Why I’m excited about it: There haven’t been many rumors about the expected Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which means there isn’t too much to get excited about yet. But what I’m most interested in is what new features Google’s next-generation chip will bring to its future phones. Google’s current Tensor chips have enabled features that seem practical and useful in everyday life, such as Magic Eraser and Face Unblur for improving photo quality and the ability to add speaker labels to transcripts in the Recorder app. That makes me excited about where Google could take things next.
Google Pixel Fold
Leaks suggest Google’s foldable Pixel could look like the Oppo Find N, pictured here.
Eli Blumenthal/CNET
What we’re expecting: Google hasn’t entered the foldable phone race yet, but that could change soon. Google may release a foldable phone in 2023 that looks like the Oppo Find N, according to 9to5Google. YouTube personality Dave2D says he received a blank model showing what the rumored Pixel Fold’s design could look like, and it kind of resembles Microsoft’s Surface Duo.
Developer Kuba Wojciechowski also reportedly discovered clues in the Android 13 beta hinting at a possible foldable Pixel device. The code suggested the phone would have a main, telephoto and ultrawide camera just like most premium phones, along with the same inner selfie camera as the Pixel 6.
Why we’re excited about it: We won’t know anything for certain unless Google announces a foldable phone. But there are a couple of reasons why I’m excited about the idea of a Pixel Fold.
Google typically undercuts Samsung and other phone makers on price, meaning the Pixel Fold could end up being fairly affordable compared to competitors. Foldables are also still largely a novelty. They appeal to early adopters, but most people still don’t really see the value in foldable phones just yet. Foldables phones are only expected to have accounted for 1.1% of the global smartphone market in 2022, according to The International Data Corporation’s estimate.
Since Google operates Android and has a history of coming up with unique features for its regular Pixel phones, I’m hoping it’ll do the same for a Pixel Fold. With its current Pixel devices, Google has added helpful features like the ability to sharpen photos that are out of focus and have Google Assistant wait on hold for you. If it does release a foldable, I’d like to see it follow the same approach and develop creative, useful features that take advantage of a foldable screen.
Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
Samsung Galaxy A53 5G.
Lisa Eadicicco/CNET
What we’re expecting: Samsung may be best known for its Galaxy S devices, but its series of Galaxy A phones are worth your attention if you’re shopping on a tighter budget. The next phone in this series is expected to be called the Galaxy A54 5G, following the Galaxy A53 5G’s launch last spring.
Based on the few leaks that have surfaced so far, the Galaxy A54 5G will be a modest improvement over the A53 5G. It’s expected to have a 6.4-inch screen, which is slightly smaller than the A53’s 6.5-inch display, and a triple rear camera. That’s according to the leaker Hemmerstoffer, who shared with the tech blog 91Mobiles renders purporting to show the Galaxy A54 5G’s design. A report from the Dutch tech site Galaxy Club also suggests the A54 5G could have a slightly larger battery than its predecessor.
Why I’m excited about it: When I tested the Galaxy A53 5G around the time of its launch, I thought it felt much more expensive than it actually was. It’s not perfect, but Samsung provides a well-rounded package for the price with the Galaxy A53 5G. I’m hoping the success of Google’s Pixel A series motivates Samsung to up its budget phone game even further.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 4.
James Martin/CNET
What we’re expecting: Even though foldable phones are still new to most people, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold will be on its fifth generation in 2023. The next version of Samsung’s phone-tablet hybrid could have a slot for storing Samsung’s S Pen stylus, a lighter design and a less noticeable crease, according to Korean news outlet The Elec. The report didn’t definitively say the Z Fold 5 will have these improvements, but did say Samsung has cited them as barriers that must be overcome to make foldable phones more popular.
Otherwise, we can probably expect to see routine improvements to the camera and processor in the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Samsung also added some new multitasking features to the Z Fold 4 this year, such as the ability to use the bottom portion of the screen as a mini trackpad when the display is folded halfway. So there’s a chance we’ll see other software enhancements in the future, too.
Samsung typically releases its new foldable phones in August, meaning we’re likely to see the next Z Fold around that time.
Why I’m excited about it: The Galaxy Z Fold 5 needs a lot more than an included S Pen to bring foldables into the mainstream. But making the S Pen a bigger part of the experience could go a long way in further defining who the Z Fold is for and why it exists in the first place. Samsung is promoting the Z Fold 5 as a productivity-oriented device, so having an embedded S Pen seems like a natural move. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Fold 3 are both compatible with the S Pen, but they must be purchased separately.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
The new Galaxy Z Flip 4 looks nearly identical to last year’s Z Flip 3.
Patrick Holland/CNET
What we’re expecting: Samsung’s next flip phone may have a larger cover screen and a less noticeable crease, according to Ross Young, co-founder and CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants. Ross recently tweeted that the Z Flip 5 will have a cover display measuring around 3 inches and a new hinge design that could make the crease more subtle. That would represent a sizable increase from the current Z Flip 4’s 1.9-inch cover screen. Like with the Z Fold 5, there’s a chance we’ll see general improvements to camera quality and software as well as a new processor.
Why I’m excited about it: Making the cover screen slightly larger would address one of the Z Flip’s biggest shortcomings. As my colleague Patrick Holland wrote in his review of the Z Flip 4, the cover screen is the biggest area where Samsung could be doing more. I’m also hoping to see longer battery life from the Z Flip 5 considering that’s another area where Samsung’s current flip phone could use some improvement.
Overall
It seems like some of the biggest improvements we’re expecting to see across the board on new smartphones in 2023 will have to do with battery and charging improvements, as well as camera and design upgrades. We’ll know more throughout the year as more reports and rumors arrive, and as Samsung, OnePlus, Apple and Google actually debut their devices.
