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  • HP Envy x360 15 Review: A Good 2-in-1 Hampered by an Outdated Display

    HP Envy x360 15 Review: A Good 2-in-1 Hampered by an Outdated Display

    HP’s Envy line of laptops and two-in-one convertibles is the middle child between the mainstream Pavilion series and the premium Spectre line. The Envy x360 15 is a 15.6-inch two-in-one that delivers the best of both worlds: a premium design that’s closer to that of a Spectre at a price that’s more meat-and-potatoes Pavilion. The Envy x360 15 boasts an attractive, rigid all-metal body, but the design is no different than last year’s model. And while we don’t mind last year’s looks, we are less enthused with HP sticking with a widescreen 16:9 display when the increasingly popular 16:10 panels found in such convertibles as the Dell Inspiron 16 two-in-one and Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 are roomier and more useful, while hardly adding to the system’s overall footprint.

    The Envy x360 15’s component lineup is solidly midrange with a Ryzen 7 5825U CPU that’s now a year old and a generation behind AMD’s current 6000 series. It’s paired with 12GB of RAM that’s more than the 8GB you get with typical budget models but less than the 16GB you can usually find at this price. The biggest change from last year’s model is HP having doubled the webcam resolution from a grainy 720p to a crisp 1440p camera. In the era of video conferences, a bump in webcam fidelity is greatly appreciated. Then again, if the webcam is the headliner, it’s not much of an update overall.

    7.0

    HP Envy x360 15

    You’re receiving price alerts for HP Envy x360 15

    Like

    • Premium looks at mainstream price
    • 1440p webcam
    • Long battery life

    Don’t Like

    • 16:9 display feels cramped and outdated
    • Dim display

    HP offers the Envy x360 15 in a host of configurations with both Intel and AMD CPUs. Our test system is available at Best Buy (model 15-ey0023dx) for $1,050 and is regularly discounted to only $750. Best Buy’s sales constantly fluctuate, so if it’s not on sale there, you can find a similar model at HP with 16GB of RAM that lists for $1,130. It’s currently out of stock, but its price was reduced to $930 recently. In the UK, the Envy x360 15 starts at 750, and in Australia it’s AU$1,999.

    With its octa-core Ryzen 7 5825U and 12GB of RAM, the Envy x360 offers strong application performance and some capacity for basic photo editing. Its integrated Radeon GPU isn’t as powerful as Intel’s integrated graphics processor, however, and Intel’s isn’t all that powerful to begin with. Content creators will want to look elsewhere. With the efficient Ryzen 7 U-series chip, the system is able to operate in silence the majority of the time. And when the cooling fans are required, they spin quietly. The efficient CPU also allows for long battery life — nearly 12 hours on our battery drain test.

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx

    Price as reviewed $1,050
    Display size/resolution 15.6-inch 1,920×1,080 touch display
    CPU 2GHz AMD Ryzen 7 5825U with Radeon Graphics
    Memory 12GB DDR4 3,200MHz RAM
    Graphics 512MB AMD Radeon Graphics
    Storage 512GB PCIe3x4 NVMe M.2 SSD
    Networking MediaTek Wi-Fi 6 MT7921 (2×2) and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless card
    Operating system Windows 11 Home 22H2

    Envious looks

    The Envy x360 15 features an all-metal chassis in what HP calls Nightfall Black. The matte-black finish has a hint of brown to it and lends a luxurious look similar to that of the Spectre x360 16 — minus the gem-cut edges, gold accents and ports located in the back corners. The Envy x360 15 won’t look out of place in the boardroom or executive suite and also offers a contrast to the common sight of silver aluminum laptops in coffee shops and shared workspaces.

    At 4.2 pounds (1.9 kilograms), the Envy x360 15 feels heavier than it should, likely a result of the extra layers needed for the touch display found on all two-in-ones. The 3-pound Lenovo Yoga 7i makes a better option for daily commutes with its 14-inch, 16:10 display. A smaller, lighter two-in-one also has a more natural feel in tablet mode. The Envy x360 15 looks comically tall and narrow when held in portrait mode as a tablet. It’s also too heavy to hold with one hand and tap, swipe or sketch with the other hand. One last note on the Envy x360 15 as a tablet: A pen is not included.

    Geekbench 5 (multicore)

    Acer Spin 5 (2022)

    9,766

    Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro 360

    9,087

    Lenovo Yoga 7i (14-inch, Gen 7)

    8,378

    HP Spectre x360 14-ef0013dx

    7,404

    Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 (2022)

    7,202

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx

    6,933

    Note:

    Longer bars indicate better performance

    The aluminum chassis offers a firm feel with little to no flex — even on the lid protecting the display. The keyboard deck provides a solid foundation on which to type. The keys themselves are widely spaced, firm and flat. They offer snappy feedback and a pleasant typing experience. I was immediately comfortable typing on the Envy x360 15. The touchpad, too, is excellent. It felt roomy and responsive. Both the keys and touchpad click offer the perfect amount of travel and are quiet when engaged. No loud, clacky keys or touchpad clicks to be heard.

    The 15.6-inch, widescreen 16:9 display looks outdated and cramped when you are scrolling through a long document or web page. Microsoft Word, for instance, with its fat menu bar running across the top doesn’t leave as much room as you might like to read the actual document without constantly scrolling. There’s a reason the 16:10 aspect ratio is so popular among laptops. A 16:10 display feels roomier for the simple fact that it is. A 16:9 display may be better for watching movies, but 16:10 is better for everything else.

    The other drawback with the display is its dimness. I measured it at 250 nits at maximum brightness. A 250-nit panel is budget territory. I wouldn’t be surprised to see such a display on a lower-end configuration in HP’s mainstream Pavilion line, but I expect better when stepping up to the Envy series. While the matte-black chassis might be worthy of boardroom inclusion, you had better hope your boardroom isn’t drenched in natural sunlight. I had the display dialed up to max brightness in a north-facing room on a cloudy day in winter in northern New England, and there were still times I hit the brightness-up hoping for more.

    In contrast to the dim, 16:9 display, the webcam received an upgrade in this year’s model. Gone is the grainy 720p webcam of yore, and in its place is a 5-megapixel camera that can capture 1440p, 30fps video. It produced a crisp, well-balanced picture with accurate color and skin tones. The webcam is also an IR cam, so you can sign in to Windows simply by placing your face in front of the laptop.

    HP Envy x360 15 in tent modeHP Envy x360 15 in tent mode
    Matt Elliott/CNET

    The Envy x360 15 offers a strong selection of ports, but you miss out on Thunderbolt 4 support because of the AMD chipset. The two USB-C ports support a display and high-speed data, however, and there’s also an HDMI port for connecting to an external display. With a pair of USB Type-A ports in addition to the USB-C ports, you won’t need to hassle with an adapter to connect your devices. You also get an SD card slot, which is not usually found on a mainstream laptop.

    Despite its good looks, stellar webcam and comfortable keyboard, the Envy x360 15 is hard to recommend because of its dim, 16:9 display. If the display isn’t an issue for you, just be sure to wait for a good sale price. Otherwise, a more modern two-in-one with a 16:10 display such as the Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 or Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 provides a larger workspace without adding much to the size and weight of the system.

    How we test computers

    The review process for laptops, desktops, tablets and other computer-like devices consists of two parts: performance testing under controlled conditions in the CNET Labs and extensive hands-on use by our expert reviewers. This includes evaluating a device’s aesthetics, ergonomics and features. A final review verdict is a combination of both objective and subjective judgments.

    The list of benchmarking software we use changes over time as the devices we test evolve. The most important core tests we’re currently running on every compatible computer include: Primate Labs Geekbench 5, Cinebench R23, PCMark 10 and 3DMark Wild Life Extreme.

    A more detailed description of each benchmark and how we use it can be found in our How We Test Computers page.

    Geekbench 5 (multicore)

    Acer Spin 5 (2022)

    9,766

    Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro 360

    9,087

    Lenovo Yoga 7i (14-inch, Gen 7)

    8,378

    HP Spectre x360 14-ef0013dx

    7,404

    Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 (2022)

    7,202

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx

    6,933

    Note:

    Longer bars indicate better performance

    Cinebench R23 (multicore)

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx

    10,748

    Acer Spin 5 (2022)

    10,625

    Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro 360

    8,526

    Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 (2022)

    8,181

    Lenovo Yoga 7i (14-inch, Gen 7)

    6,580

    HP Spectre x360 14-ef0013dx

    5,891

    Note:

    Longer bars indicate better performance

    PCMark 10 Pro Edition

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx

    6,254

    Acer Spin 5 (2022)

    5,835

    Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro 360

    5,722

    Lenovo Yoga 7i (14-inch, Gen 7)

    5,584

    Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 (2022)

    5,331

    HP Spectre x360 14-ef0013dx

    4,920

    Note:

    Longer bars indicate better performance

    3DMark Wild Life Extreme

    Acer Spin 5 (2022)

    4,051

    Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro 360

    3,941

    Lenovo Yoga 7i (14-inch, Gen 7)

    3,571

    HP Spectre x360 14-ef0013dx

    3,542

    Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 (2022)

    2,543

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx

    1,849

    Note:

    Longer bars indicate better performance

    Streaming video playback battery drain test (minutes)

    Lenovo Yoga 7i (14-inch, Gen 7)

    765

    Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro 360

    735

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx

    716

    Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 (2022)

    697

    HP Spectre x360 14-ef0013dx

    640

    Acer Spin 5 (2022)

    579

    Note:

    Longer bars indicate better performance

    System Configurations

    HP Envy x360 15-ey0023dx Microsoft Windows 11 Home; 2GHz AMD Ryzen 7 5825U with Radeon Graphics; 12GB DDR4 3,200MHz RAM; 512MB Radeon Graphics; 512GB SSD
    Lenovo Yoga 7i (14-inch, Gen 7) Microsoft Windows 11 Home; 1.7Ghz Intel Core i7-1255U; 16GB DDR5 6,400MHz RAM; 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics; 512GB SSD
    Acer Spin 5 (2022) Microsoft Windows 11 Home; 2.1GHz Intel Core i7-1260P; 16GB DDR5 6,400MHz RAM; 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics; 1TB SSD
    Dell Inspiron 16 2-in-1 (2022) Microsoft Windows 11 Home; 1.3GHz Intel Core i5-1235U; 8GB DDR4 3,200MHz RAM; 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics; 512GB SSD
    Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro 360 Microsoft Windows 11 Home; 2.1GHz Intel Core i7-1260P; 16GB DDR5 5,200MHz RAM; 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics; 1TB SSD
    HP Spectre x360 14-ef0013dx Microsoft Windows 11 Pro; 1.7GHz Intel Core i7-1255U; 16GB DDR4 4,266MHz RAM; 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics; 1TB SSD

    Best Laptops for 2023

    A selection of the best laptops you can buy right now.

    See the full list of best laptops for 2023.

  • Best VR Headsets of 2023

    Best VR Headsets of 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Oculus Quest 2Oculus Quest 2

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

    Scott Stein/CNET

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

    If you’re a PC gamer,a PC-connected VR headset still offers the most versatile collection of software for an immersive VR experience, and it also lets you use that headset for creative and business tools. Note that a more powerful VR systemwill still be largely tethered to a desktop or laptop and may require external sensors.

    And what about console gaming? The aging PlayStation VRstill exists, but you’re better off waiting for the PSVR 2 if you have a PS5.

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

    Sarah Tew/CNET

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

    Bad: More expensive

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

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

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

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

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

    HP

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

    Bad: Mediocre controllers

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

    It typically lists for $599, but it’s often been on sale for less.

    Read our HP Reverb G2 review.

    Sarah Tew/CNET

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

    Bad: Expensive; requires room setup and tethering cable

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

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

    Read our Valve Index review.

    Sarah Tew/CNET

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

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

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

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

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

    $329 at Walmart

    You’re receiving price alerts for Sony PlayStation VR

    VR FAQs

    Should I wait to buy a VR headset?

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

    What should I look for in a VR headset?

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

    Do any of these headsets work with phones?

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

    How do I care for my VR headset?

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

    More for gamers

  • Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Liverpool Livestream: How to Watch FA Cup Soccer From Anywhere

    Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Liverpool Livestream: How to Watch FA Cup Soccer From Anywhere

    Having played them off the park in their recent English Premier League meeting at Anfield, Brighton will be hoping to inflict another demoralizing defeat on Liverpool in this FA Cup fourth round clash.

    The Seagulls waltzed to a comfortable 0-3 away victory in that match earlier this month, thanks to a Solly March double and a Danny Welbeck strike, in a performance which illustrated the relentless attacking philosophy of new coach Roberto De Zerbi.

    Unbeaten in their last four and currently sitting sixth in the table, Brighton are on the up and will fancy their chances here against a Liverpool side that are struggling to live up to their Premier League heavyweight status.

    The visitors head into this fixture with just one win in their last five across all competitions, with coach Jurgen Klopp desperately trying to revitalize a side that has been lackluster in front of goal since the World Cup break.

    Below, we’ll outline the best live TV streaming services to use to watch the game live, wherever you are in the world.

    Brighton midfielder Solly March sliding to retrieve the ball.Brighton midfielder Solly March sliding to retrieve the ball.

    Veteran Brighton midfielder Solly March scored twice when these two sides met at Anfield in the Premier League earlier this month.

    Gareth Fuller/PA Images/Getty Images

    Brighton vs. Liverpool: When and where?

    Brighton host Liverpool at the Amex Stadium on Sunday, Jan. 29. Kickoff is set for 1.30 p.m. local time in the UK (8.30 a.m. ET, 5.30 p.m. PT in the US and Canada, and 12.30 a.m. AEDT on Jan. 30 in Australia).

    How to watch the Brighton vs. Liverpool game online from anywhere using a VPN

    If you find yourself unable to view the game locally, you may need a different way to watch the game — that’s where using a VPN can come in handy. A VPN is also the best way to stop your ISP from throttling your speeds on game day by encrypting your traffic, and it’s 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.

    With a VPN, you’re able to virtually change your location on your phone, tablet or laptop to get access to the game. Most VPNs, like our Editors’ Choice, ExpressVPN, make it really easy to do this.

    Using a VPN to watch or stream sports is legal in any country where VPNs are legal, including the US, UK and Canada, as long as you have a legitimate subscription to the service you’re streaming. You should be sure your VPN is set up correctly to prevent leaks: Even where VPNs are legal, the streaming service may terminate the account of anyone it deems to be circumventing correctly applied blackout restrictions.

    Looking for other options? Be sure to check out some of the other great VPN deals taking place right now.

    Sarah Tew/CNET

    ExpressVPN is our current best VPN pick for people who want a reliable and safe VPN, and it works on a variety of devices. It’s normally $13 per month, and you can sign up for ExpressVPN and save 49% plus get three months of access for free — the equivalent of $6.67 per month — if you get an annual subscription.

    Note that ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    Livestream the Brighton vs. Liverpool game in the US

    This cup match at the Amex Stadium is streaming exclusively live in the US on ESPN Plus. Kickoff is at 8.30 a.m. ET (5.30 a.m. PT) on Sunday morning for viewers in the States.

    ESPN’s standalone streaming service costs $10 a month or $100 for an annual subscription. With it, you’ll be able to watch all of this season’s FA Cup fixtures, including this intriguing matchup. Read our ESPN Plus review.

    Livestream the Brighton vs. Liverpool game for free in the UK

    The great news for footy fans in the UK is that free-to air broadcasters the BBC and ITV are sharing live duties for this season’s FA Cup.

    This fixture is being shown exclusively on ITV1, with coverage starting at 12:45 p.m. GMT ahead of the 1.30 p.m. kick-off.

    ITV

    With the match being broadcast on ITV1, that also means you’ll also be able to watch the game online for free via the network’s on-demand streaming service, ITVX (formerly ITV Hub).

    The service has an updated new app that’s available for Android and Apple mobile devices, as well as a vast array of smart TVs.

    Livestream Brighton vs. Liverpool game in Canada

    Canadian soccer fans looking to watch this big FA Cup fixture can watch all the action live via Sportsnet, with kickoff set for 8.30 a.m. ET (5.30 a.m. PT) on Sunday morning.

    Sportsnet is available via most cable operators, but cord-cutters can subscribe to the network’s standalone streaming service SN Now instead, with prices starting at CA$15 per month or CA$150 per year.

    Livestream Brighton vs. Liverpool game in Australia

    ViacomCBS now holds the broadcast rights for the FA Cup in Australia, which means you can now watch matches from the tournament live Down Under via streaming service Paramount Plus. Kickoff is at the somewhat inconvenient time of 12.30 a.m. AEDT early Monday morning.

    An Australian Paramount Plus subscription currently costs AU$9 a month, which gives you access to Paramount’s coverage of this year’s tournament, as well as Hollywood movies such as Top Gun: Maverick and original shows like Picard and Tulsa King.

  • The Meta Quest Pro Is Getting a Limited $400 Price Drop

    The Meta Quest Pro Is Getting a Limited $400 Price Drop

    It’s been less than three months since the Meta Quest Pro first went on sale, and it’s already getting a $400 discount.

    The new price, $1,100, isn’t permanent: It’s only for one week in the US, and two weeks in the UK (where the price is dropping to 1,300). But it’s a notable reduction for a headset that was widely criticized for its high price when it debuted last fall.

    Now playing:Watch this:I Used Meta Quest Pro: Here’s What It’s Like

    10:35

    The Meta Quest Pro is a step-up design from the two-year-old Quest 2 headset, but the Quest 2 only costs $400, while the Pro, even at its on-sale price, costs nearly three times as much.

    The Pro has some advantages over the Quest 2: It has a higher-res display, fits more easily over wider glasses, has redesigned controllers that can track movement with their own built-in cameras, adds color passthrough cameras and improved mixed reality, and has eye and face tracking. But its bulkier design and sometimes shorter battery life mean it isn’t always a clear improvement for everyone, it runs VR apps basically the same as the Quest 2, and its built-in processor isn’t really much different.

    The Quest Pro promotion is available on Meta’s store and at third-party stores, and it’s a limited-time promotion for now. But it may be a sign that Meta’s already considering more price cuts for its hardware as competition screeches around the corner.

    Sony’s PlayStation VR2 arrives in late February, and so does HTC’s Vive XR Elite, another standalone pro-level VR headset with a lower $1,099 price. Apple’s rumored VR headset is expected in 2023, and could be announced anytime this year. Meta’s own Quest 3 is expected later in the year, and could include several Quest Pro features at a much lower price.

    It’s going to be a busy year for VR hardware. While the Quest Pro is getting a significant price drop for now, you probably want to wait it out and see what else happens, or stick with the Quest 2 you may already have.

  • Top Foldable Phones You Can Get Right Now

    Top Foldable Phones You Can Get Right Now

    Foldable phones have been with us for a good few years now. Though they haven’t hit mainstream adoption, these folding smartphones are seen as exciting, futuristic devices that stand out from regular phones. The folding phone market is dominated by Samsung, with its Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 offering different folding forms to tempt you to part with your cash. But Samsung isn’t the only company in the game, with Motorola having launched a refreshed version of its folding Razr flip phone.

    There are additional phones, from Huawei, Oppo and other companies, but these are mostly reserved for the Chinese market. And though both Apple and Google have filed patents over the years for their own foldable displays, we’ve yet to see a folding iPhone or Pixel device.

    The folding phones we do have come in two main varieties; candybar phones that open up to become larger, tablet-size foldable devices (like the Galaxy Z Fold 4) or candybar phones that fold in half to become smaller and more pocketable (like the Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Moto Razr 2022). Because of the still recent technology, all foldables are more expensive than their regular smartphone equivalents, but if you’re keen to turn heads when you whip out your foldable display and bend your phone in half, they’re worth investigating.

    Here, then, are our picks for the best foldable phone you can buy now:

    James Martin/CNET

    Usually priced at $1,800 (yikes!), the Galaxy Z Fold 4 still costs substantially more than your average phone. But the latest version of Samsung’s book-style foldable is filled with small improvements that add up to a much more pleasant overall experience. The hinge is thinner, the device is lighter and the cover screen is wider, making it feel more natural to use as a phone when closed. That’s on top of other routine upgrades like a better camera that’s similar to the Galaxy S22’s and a new processor. Our reviewer Patrick Holland called it his “favorite Android tablet.”

    If you already have a Z Fold 3, it’s not worth upgrading. But if you’re willing to spend big (or can find a good trade-in deal) and are interested in a phone that can double as a tablet, the Z Fold 4 is the way to go.

    Read our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 review.

    Patrick Holland/CNET

    With a candybar form that folds down on itself to become a smaller square, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 offers a much more compact footprint than the Z Fold 4. It makes it easier to slide into a tight pocket when not in use, but it still folds out to offer a sizeable 6.7-inch display when you need it.

    Like the Z Fold 4, the Flip line has seen revisions over the years with improvements to its hinge system and reduction in crease marks in its display. It’s got a new camera system too, along with a larger outer display that shows incoming notifications.

    It’s pricey, sure, and its battery life could be better but it’s a fun phone and one we’ve enjoyed using.

    Read our Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 review.

    Patrick Holland/CNET

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 3 isn’t the most recent version, but the arrival of the Z Flip 4 meant a discount on the existing Z Flip 3. Starting at $600, the Flip 3 slices a hefty chunk off its original $900 asking price. This 2021 model packs features such as 5G connectivity, a potent processor and an aluminum chassis that feels sturdy.

    It’s not a lot cheaper than the current Z Flip 4, but if you’re looking for a folding phone with a bit of spare change left over it’s well worth considering.

    Read our Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 review.

    You’re receiving price alerts for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 (128GB, Black)

    Motorola Razr (2022)

    Fresh update to a solid foldable

    We reviewed the previous Motorola Razr phone back in 2020 and we liked its slick design and folding mechanism. The phone was given a fresh update in 2022 with updated internals, a fresh camera system and a bigger display.

    And while this phone was announced for the Chinese market, the 2022 Razr is also listed on the UK website, along with a price tag of 950 ($1,160), so it’s looking likely that the phone will get a wider release.

    We’re yet to get our hands on this phone so we can’t say whether the updates have made it worthy of your money yet, but it’s worth keeping in mind, particularly if you were considering buying the older model. We’ll update this listing as more firm details are announced.

    While the 2020 Moto Razr 5G might have been replaced with a fresh 2022 model (see above), the existing model has had its price slashed to all-time-low levels. You can pick it up directly from Motorola for only $600, which is a huge saving over its original $1,400 asking price and makes it the cheapest foldable phone you can buy right now.

    And it is still worth considering, despite its age, if you’re determined to get a folding phone on a budget. We loved its design when we first got our hands on it and its 5G connectivity means it’s ready to take advantage of those super-fast data speeds.

  • GoldenEye 007 Hits Nintendo Switch, Xbox: How to Play, Fix Switch Controls

    GoldenEye 007 Hits Nintendo Switch, Xbox: How to Play, Fix Switch Controls

    Load up your silenced PP7s and prime those remote mines: GoldenEye 007 is available to play via the Nintendo Switch Online and Xbox Game Pass subscription services. The beloved James Bond first-person shooter originally hit the N64 in 1997, and this is the game’s first rerelease since then.

    Playing GoldenEye 007 on Nintendo Switch

    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).

    What’s the big deal about GoldenEye 007?

    GoldenEye’s return was revealed in a Nintendo Direct livestream last September.

    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.

    Characters battle in a four-player splitscreen match in GoldenEye 007Characters battle in a four-player splitscreen match in GoldenEye 007

    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.

    Original developer David Doak, whose face was famously used for in-game Bond ally Dr. Doak, expressed both his delight and discontent in a statement to CNET.

    “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.

    Read more: GoldenEye at 20: We Raise a Martini to a Classic Game

    This year marks the 70th anniversary of Bond’s first appearance, in author Ian Fleming’s novel Casino Royale. Last year was the 60th anniversary of the Bond movie franchise — with latest film No Time to Die now available to stream on Amazon Prime Video — but the series is in a state of flux as fans await the announcement of Daniel Craig’s successor in the role. Hitman developer IO Interactive is also working on its own Bond game.

  • 11 Hidden iOS 16 Features That Will Make Using Your iPhone So Much Better

    11 Hidden iOS 16 Features That Will Make Using Your iPhone So Much Better

    You might be happy with everything your iPhone can do, but if you’re running iOS 16, your phone is more powerful than you might think. Underneath all the major new features, like unsending text messages and a revamped lock screen, there are lesser known tools and settings that are just as impressive and can help make your day-to-day more efficient, interesting and fun.

    CNET Tech Tips logoCNET Tech Tips logo

    I’m going to walk you through what to know about the best hidden gems in iOS 16, like password-protected photo albums and easily accessible Wi-Fi passwords.

    Read more: All the New Features on iOS 16.3

    And while you’re here, make sure you also brush up on the major new iOS 16 features you’ll love and a few that you might just hate (luckily, there’s a fix).

    View and share saved Wi-Fi passwords

    View and share saved Wi-Fi passwordsApple has allowed iOS users to share Wi-Fi passwords for a while now, but only by placing two Apple devices near each other. And if that feature didn’t automatically work, you couldn’t just dig out the password from your settings. Plus if you wanted to share a saved Wi-Fi password with someone else, like an Android user or someone on a computer, you had to remember the password. Until now.

    In Settings, go to Wi-Fi and tap the tiny information icon to the right of the network you want the password for. To view the network password, tap the Password section and then use Face ID or enter your passcode to view it. You can then tap Copy to copy the password into your clipboard and share it.

    Wi-Fi network settings on iOS 16Wi-Fi network settings on iOS 16

    You can view the password for any Wi-Fi network you’ve ever connected to, as long as you’re currently connected to it or near enough that it appears under My Networks.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Find and remove duplicate photos and videos

    Maybe you’ve saved the same photo multiple times or downloaded a video more than once, resulting in duplicates littering up your photo album. It may not be a problem if you’ve got storage to spare, but you’re running out of space, you can now remove every single duplicate easily with iOS 16.

    Read more: You Can Finally See Your Saved Wi-Fi Passwords on an iPhone

    In Photos > Albums, you should see a new Duplicates album under Utilities. Apple scans through all of your photos and shows you any photo or video you’ve saved more than once in that album. From there, you can either delete any duplicates, or simply press Merge, which will keep the photo with the highest quality (and relevant data) and then move the others to the trash.

    Duplicates folder in PhotosDuplicates folder in Photos

    Merging will keep the highest quality photo and delete the rest.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Although you’ll probably want to go through each set of duplicates, to ensure that they’re actually exact copies and not similar photos, you can also hit Select > Select All > Merge to remove every single photo and video that Apple thinks is a duplicate, all at once.

    Hang up a phone or FaceTime call with Siri

    Siri does a lot of things. You can use the virtual assistant to send a text message, get directions or play music — but one thing she’s never been able to do is hang up a phone call. Weird right? Now that’s finally a possibility with iOS 16.

    In Settings, go to Siri & Search and first make sure Listen for “Hey Siri” is toggled on. If it is, you should see a new option underneath — Call Hang Up. Go into that option and toggle on Call Hang Up. When you’re on a phone call or FaceTime video chat, simply say, “Hey, Siri,” and ask her to hang up your current call.

    Hang up call with siriHang up call with siri

    For this to work, Listen for “Hey Siri” must be toggled on first.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Pair Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons with your iPhone

    Apple has long allowed you to pair third-party controllers, like the PS5 Sony DualSense and Xbox Core Controller, to your iPhone and iPad, in order to more comfortably play mobile video games like the Apple Arcade library, Minecraft and Call of Duty. Now you can add another console controller to that list.

    If you own a Nintendo Switch, you can now pair your Joy-Con controllers to your iPhone or iPad running iOS 16. To start, hold down the little black pairing button on the Joy-Con, until the green lights start running back and forth. This means the device is in pairing mode. Next, open your iPhone and go to Settings > Bluetooth and select the Joy-Con from the list. Repeat this step with the other Joy-Con.

    Now playing:Watch this:iOS 16: Powerful Features You May Have Missed

    6:28

    Hidden and Recently Deleted albums are now password protected

    The Hidden album in the Photos app is clearly not hidden, seeing as anyone can easily find it. That makes it impractical for adequately hiding private photos and videos. While Apple does have an option to make the Hidden album “invisible,” anyone with access to your phone could make it visible again and view everything inside.

    Thanks to iOS 16, you can now lock the Hidden album. You don’t actually need to do anything to toggle this feature on. If you want to check it out, launch the Photos app and go to the Albums tab at the bottom of the screen. If you scroll down, you’ll see a tiny lock next to the Hidden and Recently Deleted albums. To view the contents of those albums, you’ll need to use Face ID or your passcode.

    The Hidden album in PhotosThe Hidden album in Photos

    The Hidden and Recently Deleted albums now require Face ID to be accessed.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Copy and paste photo and video edits

    If you use the editor tool in the Photos app, you’ll be happy to learn that you can now copy and paste edits, including saturation, contrast and brightness, between photos. If you edit one photo or video and are happy with the look, you can paste those same exact edits to any other photo or video in your camera roll.

    To do this, launch the Photos app and open a photo that’s been edited in full-screen. Next, tap on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and then hit Copy Edits. This option will only appear if the photo has been edited within Photos, not any third-party photo editor. Finally, go to the photo you want to copy these edits over to, tap on the three-dot menu and then hit Paste Edits. After a second or so, you should see the photo edits appear.

    Copy and paste photo edits on iOS 16Copy and paste photo edits on iOS 16

    This feature works between photos and videos.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Bring haptic feedback to your keyboard

    The iPhone has long had haptic feedback. It’s what you feel underneath your fingertips whenever you attempt to delete an app from your home screen or enter the incorrect password on your lock screen. Strangely enough, haptic feedback has never been available for the stock iOS keyboard — until now.

    If you want to enable a slight vibration for every single key you type in, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Keyboard Feedback and toggle on Haptic. The sound option you see is the loud and annoying clacking sound you might hear when you type in something and your phone isn’t on silent mode, so you can keep that disabled.

    Haptic feedback setting for keyboard on iOS 16Haptic feedback setting for keyboard on iOS 16

    Every single time you type, you’ll feel a slight vibration for each key you hit.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Pin your favorite tabs in Safari

    Safari caps your open tabs at 500, and if you’re nearing that limit, it might be pretty darn hard to find the exact tab you’re looking for. You could scroll endlessly, but there’s now an easier way to find the exact tab you’re looking for.

    In Safari, if you press down on an open tab, you now have the option to hit Pin Tab. This will move that tab to the top of Safari, where it will exist as a tiny tab preview, permanently pinned there, which you can then tap to view. If you press down and unpin a tab, it will move to first in your grid of open tabs.

    Pinning a tab in SafariPinning a tab in Safari

    All your pinned tabs appear at the top of Safari.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Use Face ID while you’re lying down

    If you’ve ever tried to unlock your iPhone while it’s vertical, like when you’re lying on your side, you might have noticed that it doesn’t work. You have to place your iPhone in portrait orientation, or upright, for Face ID to work. With iOS 16, you can finally use Face ID to unlock your iPhone when it’s in landscape orientation. However, for this to work, you must have an iPhone 13 or 14 running iOS 16.

    Copy your screenshots to your clipboard without saving them

    You don’t need to save a screenshot to your photo album to share it with someone else. A new iOS 16 feature allows you to take a screenshot, copy it to your clipboard, delete it from your phone and paste it where you see fit. After you take a screenshot, tap the screenshot preview that appears, hit Done on the top-right and then tap Copy and Delete to copy the screenshot to your clipboard.

    Copy and Delete feature for screenshots on iOS 16Copy and Delete feature for screenshots on iOS 16

    If you take a lot of screenshots, this feature can help you save storage.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Remove more preinstalled Apple apps

    Since iOS 10, you’ve been able to remove some preinstalled iOS applications like Stocks, Maps and Calculator — but not all of them. With the release of iOS 16, you can add three more apps to this list of ones you can remove: Find My, Clock and Health. However, deleting these apps can negatively affect and break support with other apps and connected devices, like your Apple Watch.

    For more on iOS 16 and the iPhone, check out the iOS 16 Cheat Sheet.

  • Manchester United vs. Reading Livestream: How to Watch FA Cup Soccer From Anywhere

    Manchester United vs. Reading Livestream: How to Watch FA Cup Soccer From Anywhere

    Manchester United host Championship side Reading on Saturday in this FA Cup fourth round clash, with the Red Devils looking to continue their rapid improvement under coach Eric ten Haag.

    United have been in superb cup form this season, having already eased their way to the knockout phase of the Europa League, and now also have one foot in the EFL Cup final following their midweek 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the first leg of the semifinals.

    That match saw in-form Marcus Rashford, new loan signing Wout Weghorst and Portuguese star Bruno Fernandes all get on the scoresheet. It’s unlikely any of the trio will feature here, with ten Haag likely to rotate his starting lineup ahead of a compressed fixture list.

    Saturday’s match will see former Manchester United midfielder and current Reading coach Paul Ince return to Old Trafford with his side currently stuck midtable in the Championship. The Royals come into this clash off the back of a heavy 4-0 league defeat to Stoke last week and, with just one win in five, an FA Cup shock seems unlikely.

    Below, we’ll outline the best live TV streaming services to use to watch the game live, wherever you are in the world.

    Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen looking towards his right.Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen looking towards his right.

    Christian Eriksen could be in line for a start in this FA Cup fourth round match against Championship side Reading.

    Gareth Copley/Getty Images

    Manchester United vs. Reading: When and where?

    Man United hosts Reading at Old Trafford on Saturday, Jan. 28. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. local time in the UK (3 p.m. ET, 12 p.m. PT in the US and Canada, and 7 a.m. AEDT on Jan. 28 in Australia).

    How to watch the Manchester United vs. Reading game online from anywhere using a VPN

    If you find yourself unable to view the game locally, you may need a different way to watch the game — that’s where using a VPN can come in handy. A VPN is also the best way to stop your ISP from throttling your speeds on game day by encrypting your traffic, and it’s 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.

    With a VPN, you’re able to virtually change your location on your phone, tablet or laptop to get access to the game. Most VPNs, like our Editors’ Choice, ExpressVPN, make it really easy to do this.

    Using a VPN to watch or stream sports is legal in any country where VPNs are legal, including the US, UK and Canada, as long as you have a legitimate subscription to the service you’re streaming. You should be sure your VPN is set up correctly to prevent leaks: Even where VPNs are legal, the streaming service may terminate the account of anyone it deems to be circumventing correctly applied blackout restrictions.

    Looking for other options? Be sure to check out some of the other great VPN deals taking place right now.

    Sarah Tew/CNET

    ExpressVPN is our current best VPN pick for people who want a reliable and safe VPN, and it works on a variety of devices. It’s normally $13 per month, and you can sign up for ExpressVPN and save 49% plus get three months of access for free — the equivalent of $6.67 per month — if you get an annual subscription.

    Note that ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    Livestream the Manchester United vs. Reading game in the US

    This cup match at Old Trafford is streaming exclusively live in the US on ESPN Plus. Kick-off is at 3 p.m. ET (12 p.m. PT) on Saturday afternoon for viewers in the States.

    ESPN’s standalone streaming service costs $10 a month or $100 for an annual subscription. With it, you’ll be able to watch all of this season’s FA Cup fixtures, including this intriguing match-up at Old Trafford. Read our ESPN Plus review.

    Livestream the Man United vs. Reading game for free in the UK

    The great news for footy fans in the UK is that free-to-air broadcasters the BBC and ITV are sharing live broadcast duties for this season’s FA Cup.

    This fixture is being shown exclusively on ITV4, with coverage starting at 7:15 p.m. GMT ahead of the 8 p.m. kick-off.

    ITV

    With the match being broadcast on ITV4, that also means you’ll also be able to watch the game online for free via the network’s on-demand streaming service, ITVX (formerly ITV Hub).

    The service has an updated new app that’s available for Android and Apple mobile devices, as well as a vast array of smart TVs.

    Livestream Man United vs. Reading game in Canada

    Canadian soccer fans looking to watch this big FA Cup fixture can watch all the action live via Sportsnet, with kickoff at Old Trafford set for 3 p.m. ET (12 p.m. PT) on Friday afternoon.

    Sportsnet is available via most cable operators, but cord-cutters can subscribe to the network’s standalone streaming service SN Now instead, with prices starting at CA$15 per month or CA$150 per year.

    Livestream Manchester United vs. Reading game in Australia

    ViacomCBS now holds the broadcast rights for the FA Cup in Australia, which means you can now watch matches from the tournament live Down Under via streaming service Paramount Plus. You’ll just have to set an alarm for early Sunday morning: kickoff is at 7 a.m. AEDT.

    An Australian Paramount Plus subscription currently costs AU$9 a month, which gives you access to Paramount’s coverage of this year’s tournament, as well as Hollywood movies such as Top Gun: Maverick and original shows like Picard and Tulsa King.

  • Dead Space Remake: 7 Useful Tips for Surviving in Space

    Dead Space Remake: 7 Useful Tips for Surviving in Space

    Dead Space might be the best video game remake ever created. Whether you’re a fan of the series or brand new to the game, the sci-fi survival horror title can be a little tricky.

    The remake of the 2008 game came out Friday, and players are stepping back into the role of Isaac, an engineer who finds himself in the middle of an utter nightmare. Even though the game is 15 years old, developer Motive Studios made some small changes to its formula to create a fresh experience for anyone playing.

    Here are seven tips to survive Dead Space.

    Always go for the limbs

    Multiple characters in the game mention cutting off the limbs of the Necromorphs, the game’s alien bad guys. It can’t be said enough how important this is.

    Shots to the head and body don’t do nearly as much damage as cutting off a limb, making the effort a waste of ammo. Most of the weapons available to Isaac are intended to be used to cut off the extremities, but you have to make sure to target limbs accordingly.

    Use the right weapon on the right enemy

    Speaking of weapons, with so many options, it’s important to know which one is best for the job. Isaac starts off with the Plasma Cutter, ideal for the commonly found Slashers, with their long limbs, or the doglike Lurkers. Isaac’s second weapon, the Plasma Rifle, is perfect for the Exploders, who have a pouch of chemicals attached to them. It takes only a few bullets for the pouch to explode. Since ammunition is limited in Dead Space, picking the right weapon will help prevent you from running out of ammo at the worst time.

    Never forget to stomp

    Necromorphs can take a lot of damage and still move around with only one or two working limbs. Because of this, one way to make sure they’re dead is by stomping on them. Not only does smashing them to bits with Isaac’s boot provide some satisfaction, it’ll also cause an item to drop from the Necromorph. Practically every one will have some useful item on it.

    Use your Stasis

    The Stasis Module is a suit upgrade that lets you slow down an object or enemy. At the start of the game, Isaac can use it just a few times before its depleted, but upgrades to his suit extend the amount available. Though initially Statis is used to get past an out-of-control door, it’s an incredibly helpful tool for dealing with Necromorphs. A shot to an individual or group of enemies will slow them down tremendously, giving you more time to evade attacks, target a limb or run away.

    Use Kinesis to get hard-to-reach items

    Kinesis is another module Isaac acquires early in the game to move obstacles in his way. It can also be used to solve puzzles and to throw pipes and exploding canisters at Necromorphs.

    Kinesis can also be used to grab items. Keep an eye out for the glowing green or white dots on items. Instead of running, or floating, to get them, you can use Kinesis to bring items right to you. There are some items purposely placed out of reach that can be acquired only with Kinesis.

    Don’t let your health get too low

    Isaac’s health is viewable on his back and goes from green to yellow to red as it’s depleted. Since Dead Space is a survival horror game, healing items are hard to come by. The problem is that certain Necromorphs have a grab attack that can immediately kill Isaac if his health is in the red. If it’s that low, make sure to keep some distance from the enemies.

    Save often

    Modern games autosave a player’s progress frequently. Dead Space, however, predates that feature, which means it’s important to save your progress often. There are segments of the game when an autosave happens, but don’t rely on these, or else you’ll risk incurring a setback.

  • Get a Lifetime Subscription to Dollar Flight Club Starting at $40

    Get a Lifetime Subscription to Dollar Flight Club Starting at $40

    Are you itching to travel? Whether you fly frequently or just want to save some money on a particular trip you have in mind, Dollar Flight Club can help budget-conscious ticket-buyers find the best deals to help you travel around the world for less. Flights have grown more expensive, which is why finding more affordable options is so important.

    And now through Feb. 3, you can get DFC access for less. For a one-time fee of $50, you can get a lifetime subscription to Dollar Flight Club’s Premium Plus tier to get alerts about special travel deals and low-cost fares for business, premium economy and economy airline tickets. Or snag the Premium tier for just $40 — for economy seating only. Whichever subscription you go with, you’ll be paying far less than the regular cost of an annual membership.

    We’re all busy these days, so instead of having to hunt down the best fares yourself, Dollar Flight Club will do it for you, making it much easier to book your dream vacation, prepare for a visit to see loved ones or find an excuse to take off for a last-minute weekend getaway.

    As mentioned above, the Dollar Flight Club Premium Plus plan gives you access to savings on flights in business, premium economy and economy seating, and includes both domestic and international deals. (Premium only offers deals for economy seating). Once you sign up and add your home airports, you’ll get instant alerts via email and can book whenever and wherever using the web or the app, which is available on both iOS and Android devices.

    Plus, you can get perks and discounts of up to 50% off from various partners, including Babbel, Acanela Expeditions and Huckberry, as well as access to a variety of travel tips from DFC experts to help you plan your next adventure.

    If high flight prices have been stopping you from booking the vacation of your dreams, now’s a great time to invest in a service that can help you find the best discounts, curated and delivered directly to you.


    Get the best price with CNET Shopping.

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