Latest News

  • Android 14 Beta 3 Is Available for Download on Your Phone Right Now

    Android 14 Beta 3 Is Available for Download on Your Phone Right Now

    Google dropped Android 14 Beta 3 in a blog post today. The prerelease software, which mostly fixes bugs, is available to download and install on the Pixel 4A 5G and later. There is only one more Android 14 beta release, slated for July, before the public Android 14 update comes out in the fall.

    Android 14 in general will bring tweaks and revamps, including updates to the Android system UI and improvements to privacy and security.

    Android 14 Beta 3 is the latest preview of Google’s mobile system, which first went to developers with the Android 14 developer preview, to test before the general release.

    Read more: Second Android 14 Developer Preview Adds More App Customization

    Prior to the beta releases of Android 14, the process of installing Android developer previews wasn’t super easy. It involved unlocking developer options, downloading a sizable file, factory resetting your device and more. Now, it’s much more simple to download and install the latest Android 14 beta.

    The final version of Android 14 will eventually be the most accessible way to get it, but that’s not expected until later this year. If you really want an early look at what’s coming, and you have a supported Android device, such as the Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro, you can begin testing Android 14 beta 3 right now. Here’s how.

    While you’re here, check out the best Android phones you can buy in 2023 and how the Galaxy S22 and S23 stack up against each other.

    A console-level control for your Android that’s compatible with popular cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Steam Link and GeForce Now, as well as hundreds of mobile games like Minecraft, Fortnite and Roblox.

    Read our Razer Kishi review.

    Is the Android 14 beta safe to download?

    Although the Android 14 beta is more refined and solid than the Android 14 developer preview, you should still expect bugs with this release that may make your phone more difficult to use. Only download the Android 14 beta if you’re willing to deal with these issues or if your device is a backup from your daily phone. Also, make sure to back up your device before downloading the Android 14 beta, in case something goes wrong or you decide to leave the program later.

    Note: Some of the new features that are in development might not end up in the final version of Android 14, so anything you do use should be considered an early preview and not necessarily final.

    Which Android devices are compatible with the Android 14 beta?

    For now, only a select number of Pixel smartphones support Android 14:

    You can check out if your device is compatible with Android 14 Beta here. We’ll add more devices to this list as they become supported. While not listed, the just-released Pixel 7A may also be able to run the beta.

    A Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro next to each otherA Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro next to each other

    The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro are two of the currently supported devices that can currently run Android 14 beta.

    Andrew Lanxon/CNET

    How to download Android 14 Beta 3 on your supported device

    The easiest way to download Android 14 Beta 3 on your phone is to go to the Android Beta for Pixel page on your computer, check if your device is supported and then enroll in the Android 14 program.

    Under the Your eligible devices option, you should see your phone if it is supported (make sure your phone is charged over 10% or else it may not appear).

    As long as you haven’t signed up for the Android 13 beta or Android 14 developer preview, you will see the option to opt in. If you’ve already signed up for the aforementioned prereleases, you don’t need to do anything to get Android 14 Beta 3. You should automatically receive an over-the-air update on your phone.

    Eligible device for Android 13 beta program.Eligible device for Android 13 beta program.

    If your device supports Android 14 beta, it will appear under “Your eligible devices.”

    Screenshot by Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    To enroll in the Android 14 beta, click Opt in and then click Confirm and enroll after reading the terms and conditions. You should see a notification that says your device is now part of the Android 14 beta program.

    You will then receive an over-the-air update on your phone. If you don’t get a notification on your phone, go to Settings > System > System update to view your Android 14 update. It may take up to 24 hours to receive the OTA update.

    How long will the Android 14 beta last for?

    You should expect updates up until the public release of Android 14, which will likely launch sometime in the fall of this year. According to Google, you should receive an update a month in May and June, with two in July.

    Also, the Android 14 beta program as a whole will continue until next year, which means that you’ll continuously receive beta updates up until the next beta release, unless you opt out.

    How do I opt out of the Android 14 beta?

    To opt out of the Android 14 beta program, go back to the Android Beta for Pixel page, but this time click Opt out. Within 24 hours, you should receive an OTA update on your phone that will wipe out all your locally saved data and provide you with whatever the latest public version of Android is at the time. As mentioned before, this is why you need to back up your device before enrolling in the Android 14 beta program.

  • NBA Finals: How to Watch, Stream Nuggets vs. Heat Game 3 Tonight on ABC From Anywhere

    NBA Finals: How to Watch, Stream Nuggets vs. Heat Game 3 Tonight on ABC From Anywhere

    After getting blown out in Game 1, the Miami Heat used a fourth-quarter comeback to take Game 2 in Denver to even the NBA Finals at a game apiece. Nikola Jokić scored 41 points for Denver, but Miami held the rest of the Nuggets in check and got out of the Mile High City with a 111-108 win when Jamal Murray missed a three-pointer at the buzzer that would have sent the game into overtime. The series now shifts to South Beach for the next two games, starting with Game 3 on Wednesday night. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. ET (5:30 p.m. PT) on ABC.

    Whether you live in the US or are looking to follow the basketball action from around the world, we’ll outline the best live TV streaming services to watch the 2023 NBA Finals live, no matter where you are.

    Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat prepares to shoot a free throwJimmy Butler of the Miami Heat prepares to shoot a free throw

    Jimmy Butler led the Miami Heat to a Game 2 victory in Denver to even the NBA Finals.

    Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE/Getty Images

    Nuggets vs. Heat Game 3: When and where?

    The next two games will be played at the Kaseya Center in Miami. Tip-off for Game 3 is set for tonight at 8:30 p.m. ET or 5:30 p.m. PT in the USthat’s 1:30 a.m. BST in the UK, and at 10:30 a.m. AEST in Australia on Thursday, June 8.

    What is the schedule for the rest of the NBA Finals?

    The schedule for the rest of the NBA Finals is as follows. All games will air in the US on ABC.

    Wednesday, June 7: Nuggets at Heat, 8:30 p.m. ET (Game 3; series is tied 1-1)
    Friday, June 9: Nuggets at Heat, 8:30 p.m. ET (Game 4)
    Monday, June 12: Heat at Nuggets, 8:30 p.m. ET (Game 5)
    Thursday, June 15: Nuggets at Heat, 8:30 p.m. ET (Game 6, if necessary)
    Sunday, June 18: Heat at Nuggets, 8 p.m. ET (Game 7, if necessary)

    How to watch the NBA Finals 2023 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.

    Express VPNExpress VPN

    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 Nuggets vs. Heat Game 3 in the US

    All games for this year’s NBA Finals will be shown live nationally in the US on ABC and ESPN3. Most of the major streaming TV services offer ABC, but it can be a bit complicated.

    Sling TV’s Orange plan doesn’t include ABC, but it does include ESPN3, which will also work for streaming the NBA Finals. Sling also offers a Blue plan that has ABC in select markets, but the Orange plan should do the trick and also includes the regular ESPN channel.

    Hulu Plus Live TV costs $70 a month and includes ABC. Click the “View all channels in your area” link at the bottom of its welcome page to see which local networks are available where you live.

    YouTube TV costs $73 a month and offers all the main channels that broadcast NBA basketball, including ABC. Plug in your ZIP code on its welcome page to see which local networks are available in your area.

    FuboTV costs $75 per month for its Pro option and includes ABC. Check out which local networks it offers here.

    DirecTV Stream is expensive. It’s the priciest of the five major live TV streaming services. Its cheapest, $65-a-month Entertainment package includes ABC as well as ESPN and TNT. You can use its channel lookup tool to see which local channels and RSNs are available in your area.

    It is worth noting that DirecTV has an additional $15 “advanced receiver service” fee that automatically applies and is extra from the sticker price, which makes the Entertainment package $80 per month.

    Each live TV streaming service offers a free trial, allows you to cancel anytime and requires a solid internet connection. Looking for more information? Check out our live TV streaming services guide.

    Livestream Nuggets vs. Heat Game 3 in the UK

    For basketball fans in the UK, every 2023 NBA Finals game will be shown live on Sky Sports. This game will be broadcast on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Arena, with tip-off set for 1:30 a.m. BST on Thursday morning. Game 4 will also stream for free on Sky Sports YouTube.

    Sky subsidiary Now (formerly Now TV) offers streaming access to Sky Sports channels with a Now Sports membership. You can get a day of access for 12, or sign up to a monthly plan from 25 per month right now.

    Livestream Nuggets vs. Heat Game 3 in Canada

    Live coverage of NBA postseason games is split between TSN, Sportsnet, RDS and NBA TV in Canada. The third game of the Finals is set to be broadcast on Sportsnet, which means it can be watched via its streaming service Sportsnet Now. Existing TSN or Sportsnet cable subscribers can meanwhile watch at no extra charge using the details of their TV provider.

    Sportsnet is broadcasting Games 3, 5 and 7 (if necessary) of the NBA Finals. To stream without a cable provider you will need to sign up for Sportsnet Now, its streaming service, which starts at CA$15 per month for its “standard” option.

    TSN Plus has Games 4 and 6 (the latter only if necessary). The service is priced at CA$20 a month or CA$200 per year.

    Livestream Nuggets vs. Heat Game 3 in Australia

    This year’s NBA Finals can be watched Down Under on ESPN via Foxtel. If you’re not a Fox subscriber, your best option is to sign up for streaming service Kayo Sports.

    A Kayo Sports subscription starts at AU$25 a month and lets you stream on one screen, while its Premium tier costs AU$35 a month for simultaneous viewing on up to three devices.

    The service gives you access to a wide range of sports including F1, NRL, NFL, F1, NHL and MLB, and there are no lock-in contracts.

    Better still, if you’re a new customer, you can take advantage of a one-week Kayo Sports free trial.

    Quick tips for streaming the NBA Finals using a VPN

    • With four variables at play — your ISP, browser, video streaming provider and VPN — your experience and success when streaming NBA Finals games may vary.
    • If you don’t see your desired location as a default option for ExpressVPN, try using the “search for city or country” option.
    • If you’re having trouble getting the game after you’ve turned on your VPN and set it to the correct viewing area, there are two things you can try for a quick fix. First, log into your streaming service subscription account and make sure the address registered for the account is an address in the correct viewing area. If not, you may need to change the physical address on file with your account. Second, some smart TVs — like Roku — don’t have VPN apps you can install directly on the device itself. Instead, you’ll have to install the VPN on your router or the mobile hotspot you’re using (like your phone) so that any device on its Wi-Fi network now appears in the correct viewing location.
    • All of the VPN providers we recommend have helpful instructions on their main site for quickly installing the VPN on your router. In some cases with smart TV services, after you install a cable network’s sports app, you’ll be asked to verify a numeric code or click a link sent to your email address on file for your smart TV. This is where having a VPN on your router will also help, since both devices will appear to be in the correct location.
    • And remember, browsers can often give away a location despite using a VPN, so be sure you’re using a privacy-first browser to log into your services. We normally recommend Brave.
  • AirPods Upgrades Unveiled at WWDC 2023

    AirPods Upgrades Unveiled at WWDC 2023

  • Anyone Can Download the iOS 17 Developer Beta on the iPhone for Free. Here’s How

    Anyone Can Download the iOS 17 Developer Beta on the iPhone for Free. Here’s How

    Advertiser Disclosure
    Advertiser Disclosure
    This advertising widget is powered by Navi and contains advertisements that Navi may be paid for in different ways. You will not be charged for engaging with this advertisement. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, this advertising widget does not include information about every product or service that may be available to you. We make reasonable efforts to ensure that information in the featured advertisements is up to date, each advertiser featured in this widget is responsible for the accuracy and availability of its offer details. It is possible that your actual offer terms from an advertiser may be different than the offer terms in this advertising widget and the advertised offers may be subject to additional terms and conditions of the advertiser which will be presented to you prior to making a purchase. All information is presented without any warranty or guarantee to you.

    You can get your hands on iOS 17 right now — for free.

    iOS 17 was first announced at WWDC on Monday. Shortly after the keynote, Apple released the first developer beta version of iOS 17. Typically, you have to pay $99 to officially download and install any Apple developer beta software, but this year Apple is letting anyone with a compatible iPhone get a crack at iOS 17 — as long as they join the Apple Developer Program.

    Don’t miss: Apple Unveils iOS 17 for the iPhone at WWDC 2023

    iOS 17 places an emphasis on communication, with several new features to the Phone, FaceTime and Messages applications, including personalized contact posters, video messages, a more intelligent autocorrect, improved AirDrop options and the Journal app.

    CNET Tech Tips logoCNET Tech Tips logo

    Before you go on and install iOS 17, you should know that developer beta versions like this aren’t intended for general use, especially because they may have unfinished features and issues that can make the iPhone difficult to use. These early beta releases are, instead, for developers, to help them keep their apps up to date and get early access to the upcoming features.

    In short, you probably shouldn’t install the developer beta on your primary iPhone. If you really want to get iOS 17 right now, try to find a spare iPhone that is new enough (iPhone XS or later) to work with the latest software.

    Check out: iOS 17 Is Coming This Year. Will It Work on Your iPhone?

    For those who still want to dive in, we’ll show you how to install the iOS 17 developer version on your iPhone, as well as what to do in case you want to revert to iOS 16.

    If you want to learn more about what was announced at WWDC, here’s what you need to know about Vision Pro, Apple’s new augmented reality headset, the new 15-inch MacBook Air and MacOS Sonoma.

    wwdc-new-seq-00-00-01-13-still001.pngwwdc-new-seq-00-00-01-13-still001.png
    Watch this: Apple Reveals iOS 17

    16:43

    What to know before you download the iOS 17 developer beta

    Because the iOS 17 developer beta is an early prerelease version, the software could have bugs and other issues.

    Again, if you’re thinking about downloading iOS 17, do it on a backup or secondary phone, if available. The iOS 17 developer beta’s issues could cripple your iPhone and make it difficult to use, disabling phone calls or text messages or making it extremely laggy. However, if you only have your main phone or tablet available, make sure to back up your iPhone on iOS 16.5 (the latest version of iOS 16) before updating to iOS 17. That way you have the option to return to iOS 16 if there are too many issues on the new OS.

    Also, you must have an iPhone XS or later to run iOS 17. iOS 17 is not supported on the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and the iPhone X, all of which supported the iOS 16 developer beta last year.

    And most importantly, to download the iOS 17 developer beta, you must be enrolled in the Apple Developer Program. The full membership is $99 a year, but as mentioned above, Apple is now offering a free membership option, with limited tools and resources, that allows pretty much anyone to download and install the iOS 17 developer beta for free.

    You can also wait to join the Apple Beta Software program next month, which will provide a more stable iOS 17 upgrade than the developer version.

    iPhone XSiPhone XS

    You can download iOS 17 on the iPhone XS and later.

    How to enroll in the Apple Developer Program (free)

    If you’re only interested in testing out the iOS 17 developer beta for fun, then you don’t need to pay for an Apple Developer Program membership. You can easily use your existing Apple ID to sign up for the developer program and download developer software onto your iPhone.

    1. Go to Apple’s Developer website, tap the three-dash menu in the top-right and hit Account.

    2. Sign in with your existing Apple ID.

    3. Read through the Apple Developer Agreement, check the boxes at the bottom and then hit Submit.

    You now have a free Apple Developer Program account. You can skip the next step to download and install the iOS 17 developer beta on your iPhone.

    creating a free Apple Developer Program account for iOS 17creating a free Apple Developer Program account for iOS 17

    You can then scroll to Software Downloads to check out everything you can install, including the iOS 17 developer beta.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    How to enroll in the Apple Developer Program (paid)

    If you’re a developer, and want full access to development tools and the ability to distribute apps on the App Store, then you’ll want to pay for the Apple Developer Program. On your iPhone, here’s how you can enroll:

    1. Download the Apple Developer app from the App Store, launch the app, go to Account and tap Enroll Now.

    2. Sign in with your Apple ID credentials, read through the various benefits and instructions, enter your personal information and scan your ID to verify your identity.

    3. Once this information is submitted, you must choose your entity (individual for most people) and agree to the program license agreement.

    4. Finally, pay the Apple Developer membership fee (with Apple Pay), which is $99 (about 80 or AU$140) a year.

    After you successfully make the payment, you’ll be redirected to your Account page in the Apple Developer app. Here you can verify that you’re now enrolled, and you can also check out the date of your membership’s expiration next year.

    Signing up for Apple Developer ProgramSigning up for Apple Developer Program

    The Apple Developer app is free to download from the App Store.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    You can install iOS 17 with an over-the-air update on your iPhone

    The easiest way to download the iOS 17 developer beta is with an over-the-air update — the way you would update to any other new software release on your device. Once you’re a member of the Apple Developer Program, free or paid, you’ll automatically have the option to install iOS 17 from your settings. Here’s how:

    1. On your iPhone or iPad, go to the Settings > General > Software Update.

    2. Next, go into Beta Updates and tap iOS 17 Developer Beta.

    3. Go back and tap Download and Install under the new iOS 17 Developer Beta option that appears.

    You’ll need to then enter your passcode, agree to the terms and conditions and wait for the update to be installed. The process can take over 20 minutes, depending on your internet connection. Once your phone reboots, you should have access to the iOS 17 developer beta.

    iOS 17 developer beta install page on iPhoneiOS 17 developer beta install page on iPhone

    All subsequent iOS 17 developer beta updates will appear as over-the-air updates here on your iPhone.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    Or download the iOS 17 developer beta using your Mac

    Over-the-air updates require a certain amount of storage, and if you don’t have that available, your computer is really the only way to update to iOS 17 beta without manually clearing out space.

    1. On your Mac, go to the Apple Developer Program download page, find iOS 17 beta, click Download Restore Images and download the iOS beta software restore image for your specific device.

    2. Connect your device to your computer and enter your device passcode or hit Trust This Computer if prompted.

    3. Next, open Finder, click your device in the sidebar under Locations.

    4. Hold down the Option key, click Check for Update and choose the iOS 17 beta software restore image you just downloaded from the Apple Developer page.

    The iOS 17 beta software will install on your device. Wait for a few minutes and when your phone reboots, you should have access.

    iOS 17 download profile on MaciOS 17 download profile on Mac

    If you don’t have space on your iPhone, download and install the iOS 17 developer beta from your Mac.

    Nelson Aguilar/CNET

    While you’re here, check out the best iPhone model you can get in 2023. And if you’re looking for a new computer, check out these laptops you might be interested in.

  • Apple’s Vision Pro vs. Meta Quest 3: Which Should You Get?

    Apple’s Vision Pro vs. Meta Quest 3: Which Should You Get?

  • Watch Europa Conference League Final Soccer: Livestream Fiorentina vs. West Ham From Anywhere

    Watch Europa Conference League Final Soccer: Livestream Fiorentina vs. West Ham From Anywhere

    Fiorentina and West Ham go head-to-head today in the Europa Conference League Final in Prague, with both teams looking to end a six-decade wait for continental silverware.

    English Premier League side West Ham come into the final at the Eden Arena as the favorites. They’ve been the stand-out team in this tournament, the junior of UEFA’s three continental competitions, with 11 wins from their 12 games played this season.

    Brazilian striker Arthur Cabral will provide the main threat for Fiorentina, having bagged an impressive seven goals in the Europa Conference League this term.

    The match could prove to be a farewell performance for the Hammers for their inspirational captain Declan Rice. The England midfield star is widely expected to move during the summer, with Arsenal and German giants Bayern Munich reported suitors for the 24-year-old.

    Will Rice sign off in style for the Londoners, or will La Viola end their long wait for a European trophy? Below, we’ll outline the best live TV streaming services to use to watch the game live wherever you are in the world.

    Composite image of Fiorentina and West Ham United football club badges either side of the Europa Conference League trophyComposite image of Fiorentina and West Ham United football club badges either side of the Europa Conference League trophy

    Kemal Delikmen/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

    Fiorentina vs. West Ham: When and where?

    Fiorentina take on West Ham at the Eden Arena in Prague in the Europa Conference League Final on Wednesday, June 7. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. BST in the UK, (3 p.m. ET, 12 p.m. PT in the US and 5 a.m. AEST on Thursday, June 8, in Australia).

    How to watch the Fiorentina vs. West Ham 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. So if your internet provider or mobile carrier has stuck you with an IP address that incorrectly shows your location in a blackout zone, a VPN can correct that problem by giving you an IP address in your correct, nonblackout area. 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.

    Express VPNExpress VPN

    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 Fiorentina vs. West Ham game in the US

    Wednesday’s big match in Prague will be available to stream on Paramount Plus, which has live broadcast rights in the US for every UEFA Europa Conference League, Europa League and Champions League fixture for the 2022-23 season.

    Paramount Plus logo on a smartphone screenParamount Plus logo on a smartphone screen

    Sarah Tew/CNET

    Paramount Plus has two main subscription plans in the US: Essential for $5 a month ($50 a year if you pay annually) and Premium for $10 a month ($100 a year).Both offer coverage of all Europa Conference League, Europa League and Champions League fixtures this season.

    The cheaper Essential option has ads for on-demand streaming and lacks live CBS feeds as well as the ability to download shows to watch offline later. Newcomers to the service can take advantage of a 30-day free trial, while students may qualify for a 25% discount.

    Read our Paramount Plus review.

    Livestream the Fiorentina vs. West Ham game in the UK for free

    Europa Conference League rights in the UK are held by BT Sport. However, with this being the final, BT are allowing nonsubscribers to catch all the action for free on the BT Sport website, the BT Sport app and the BT Sport YouTube channel.

    For current subscribers, this game is set to be broadcast on BT Sport 1 and BT Sport Ultimate 4K channels in ultra HD. If you already have BT Sport as part of your TV package, you can stream the game via the BT Sport app, while cord-cutters can also stream via BT Sport Monthly Pass.

    If you’re already a BT TV customer you can currently access BT Sport channels for 10 a month. BT Broadband customers can watch the channels via the BT Sport app for 16.

    If you don’t want to be locked down to a lengthy contract, there’s also the option of BT Sport Monthly Pass, which costs 30 a month and lets you stream all four BT Sport channels across iOS and Android devices, plus a wide range of set-top boxes and smart TVs. It’s a rolling one-month contract that you can cancel at any time.

    Livestream the Fiorentina vs. West Ham game in Canada

    If you want to stream this game live in Canada, you’ll need to subscribe to DAZN Canada. The service has exclusive broadcast rights to the Europa Conference League final.

    A DAZN subscription currently costs CA$25 a month or CA$200 a year and will also give you access to the Champions League and WTA tennis.

    As well as dedicated apps for iOS and Android, there’s a wide range of support for set-top boxes and smart TVs.

    Livestream the Fiorentina vs. West Ham game in Australia

    Football fans Down Under can watch this UEFA Europa Conference League fixture on streaming service Stan Sport, which is showing every single European game live in Australia this season.

    Stan Sport will set you back AU$10 per month (on top of a AU$10 Stan subscription), but the streaming service is currently offering a seven-day free trial.

    A subscription will also give you access to the UEFA Champions League and Europa League action, as well as international rugby and Formula E.

    Quick tips for streaming the Europa Conference League Final using a VPN

    • With four variables at play — your ISP, browser, video streaming provider and VPN — your experience and success when streaming Europa Conference League matches may vary.
    • If you don’t see your desired location as a default option for ExpressVPN, try using the “search for city or country” option.
    • If you’re having trouble getting the game after you’ve turned on your VPN and set it to the correct viewing area, there are two things you can try for a quick fix. First, log into your streaming service subscription account and make sure the address registered for the account is an address in the correct viewing area. If not, you may need to change the physical address on file with your account. Second, some smart TVs — like Roku — don’t have VPN apps you can install directly on the device itself. Instead, you’ll have to install the VPN on your router or the mobile hotspot you’re using (like your phone) so that any device on its Wi-Fi network now appears in the correct viewing location.
    • All of the VPN providers we recommend have helpful instructions on their main site for quickly installing the VPN on your router. In some cases with smart TV services, after you install a cable network’s sports app, you’ll be asked to verify a numeric code or click a link sent to your email address on file for your smart TV. This is where having a VPN on your router will also help, since both devices will appear to be in the correct location.
    • And remember, browsers can often give away a location despite using a VPN, so be sure you’re using a privacy-first browser to log into your services. We normally recommend Brave.
  • Apple Pumps Up Music Features in Next Versions of iOS, iPadOS and MacOS

    Apple Pumps Up Music Features in Next Versions of iOS, iPadOS and MacOS

    At Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference Monday, the company announced new features for streaming and sharing music on iPhones, iPads and Mac computers. On Wednesday, Apple provided more details on its upcoming music offerings and disclosed even more music features not mentioned at WWDC.

    Read more: WWDC 2023 Biggest Reveals

    Apple has always made it easy to play and share music across its devices, and the next versions of the company’s operating systems for iPhones, iPads and Mac computers will expand those features for cars, hotels and personal connections. A new AirDrop feature will let iOS users easily kick off shared listening experiences (as well as easily share contact info), and AirPlay and CarPlay will both make it easier for Apple users to stream and share music when traveling.

    Read on to learn all about the new music features coming to your Apple devices. For more from WWDC, check out everything new in iOS 17 and the new gaming mode for MacOS.

    New AirDrop features in iOS 17 will let you share music easily

    An update to iOS for iPhones will soon add a new phone gesture for launching an AirDrop, Apple’s Bluetooth-based system for secure personal sharing. Now users will only need to “bump” their devices by bringing them close together to initiate an AirDrop and share contact info or other files.

    The new AirDrop functionality will make it easier for Apple users to kick off shared experiences as well. Bumping devices will also enable starting SharePlay, which lets two people listen to the same music or watch the same movie simultaneously.

    At the WWDC event, Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi gave the example of two people running together who bump their phones to start listening to the same music at the same time. Similarly, two friends at a coffee shop could bump phones to watch the same video stream together.

    Collaborative Playlists will let friends create shared music sets

    a picture of an iPhone showing Game Night collaborative playlist with four participantsa picture of an iPhone showing Game Night collaborative playlist with four participants

    Collaborative Playlists will make it easier to create and react to shared music.

    Apple

    One of the biggest upcoming Apple Music features not announced at WWDC is a new Collaborative Playlist option. Coming this fall, Apple Music subscribers will be able to invite friends and family to join group playlists. Participants can select, edit and order songs in the shared playlist, or add emojis to specific tracks.

    Apple didn’t provide many details about how Collaborative Playlists will work, but an image in the company’s press release indicates that playlist participants will see their profile pictures associated with the songs they selected, with a button at the top of the app for adding or removing people from the playlist.

    CarPlay will make it easier to share music on road trips

    Apple also showed off the integration of SharePlay with CarPlay, which will make it possible for everyone in the car to contribute to a road-trip playlist without passing a phone around. If you’re running CarPlay and using Apple Music, everyone in the car with an iPhone should be able to join your share and add songs to the playlist.

    On Wednesday, Apple provided a few more details about how SharePlay will work in cars. When people in a car are listening to Apple Music, other trusted iPhones in the car will be prompted to join the session. Participants can then control the music with their own devices, and they won’t need an Apple Music subscription to do so.

    AirPlay will let you play music and movies on hotel devices

    Apple announced an upcoming partnership with hotels to allow iPhone, iPad and Mac users to stream music and movies directly to hotel devices. While the most obvious use of AirPlay in hotels will be playing your movies and TV shows on the big screen, you’ll also probably be able to stream music to the hotel TV for a stereo music experience that doesn’t require headphones.

    Pairing your Apple device with the hotel’s will be as simple as scanning a QR code. According to the WWDC announcement, “AirPlay will be available in select hotels before the end of the year.”

    AirPlay will also soon learn your favorite music preferences

    Along with the new streaming options for music in hotels and cars, Apple AirPlay is set to start learning your listening preferences and adapting to them. iPhones and iPads will soon use “on-device intelligence” to analyze your listening habits and adjust playback suggestions accordingly.

    In the example provided at WWDC, someone who always listens to music while cooking dinner would be prompted to stream their music via a kitchen HomePod speaker during the usual time for food preparation.

    You’ll also soon be able to initiate an AirPlay session using Siri and your Apple HomePod, letting you control the music playing at home with only your voice.

    Other new audio features coming to Apple devices

    Sharing and streaming music more easily were the main audio features announced at WWDC, but there were a few other minor announcements that could improve the listening experience for AirPods, iPhones and iPads.

    First, a new iOS diary app called Journal will use curated information from your device — such as photos, music and location — to create personalized prompts for your journaling. You’ll soon be able to simply tap a song on your Apple device to add it to your Journal entry.

    Apple also plans to add new playback features to Apple Music, including the ability to crossfade songs and display full-screen animated album art when it’s available. The app will add new artist features as well, such as new song credits that will provide details about all of the musicians and contributors involved in the recording.

    Finally, Apple AirPods will soon add a new feature called “adaptive audio,” which dynamically tweaks volume and noise cancellation based on what you’re listening to and the sounds around you. A personalized volume system will also adjust your sound based on your listening preferences over time.

    Read more: AirPods Getting a Cool New Feature That Sony Earbuds Already Have

    For more on Apple’s WWDC 2023, check out all the new features coming to the Apple Watch with WatchOS 10 and our hands-on impressions of the biggest MacBook Air ever.

  • Apple’s iOS 17 Debuts New Journal, Standby Features Along with FaceTime Updates

    Apple’s iOS 17 Debuts New Journal, Standby Features Along with FaceTime Updates

    Apple’s debut of iOS 17 is going to change to how you call, text and glance at information on your iPhone. iOS 17 will bring updates to FaceTime, Messages and the phone app to make your iPhone feel more intuitive and personal, the company revealed Monday during its Worldwide Developers Conference.

    Last year’s software update, iOS 16 introduced the ability to edit or “unsend” messages you send via iMessage, Apple Pay Later, a major overhaul to the lock screen, revamped notifications and Live Activities. These additions didn’t all come out at once and were actually scattered over the course of smaller iOS software updates throughout the year.

    iosstilliosstill
    Watch this: Apple iOS 17: Every New Feature (Supercut)

    11:05

    We can expect the same for iOS 17, which will likely be released just before the rumored iPhone 15 goes on sale.

    Contact Posters

    Three iPhones, each showing a different Contact PosterThree iPhones, each showing a different Contact Poster

    Contact Posters aim to make your contact cards more compelling.

    Apple

    Last year we got customizable lock screens in iOS 16. This year, iOS 17 has a similar change for your iPhone’s contact cards, to make them look more eye-catching. Contact Posters are beautiful treatments for contact photos and emoji paired with slick-looking fonts that show up when you get calls and for other services on your phone where you communicate and share.

    You can customize your Contact Poster similar to how you personalize your lock screen. Pick a photo, font and color and that’s it.

    AirDrop gets easier to use

    iOS 17 brings an overhaul to AirDrop. You just need to bring your iPhone close to someone else’s to share a Contact Poster, photos, videos or kick off a shared activity using Share Play. Of course, being Apple, there’s a word for sharing your Contact Poster with someone new: NameDrop. What’s nice, is that you can choose what contact info is shared. NameDrop works between iPhones or with an Apple Watch, too. It reminds me of “bumping” a contact in the early days of the iPhone.

    Standby turns your iPhone into an Amazon Echo Show

    An iPhone with its Standby screen activeAn iPhone with its Standby screen active

    iOS 17 adds an attractive screen that shows photos, widgets and info when your iPhone is charging.

    Apple

    One of the biggest additions in iOS 17 is for when your iPhone isn’t in your hand. When your iPhone is on its side while MagSafe charging, you get a new full screen experience with glanceable information. The feature is called Standby and mimics what many smart home devices can do, such as the Amazon Echo Show.

    The new screen shows the time, photos, widgets and Live Activities; nearly all of which can be personalized. It’s a bit of a cross between the iPhone 14 Pro’s always-on display and nightstand mode on the Apple Watch.

    When you swipe to the side on the Standby screen, you can look at your favorite photos or moments. iOS 17 will also automatically shuffle images to find the one that take the best advantage of the screen.

    Standby can also show glanceable widgets. For example, you can see the weather, your Apple Home smart controls or your favorite third-party widget. With support for live activities, you can also see the score of sporting events or the status of a food delivery.

    One of the more curious features is that Standby can remember your preferred view “setup” for each place you charge via MagSafe.

    The new Journal app

    The icon for the new Journal app in iOS 17The icon for the new Journal app in iOS 17

    Apple

    iOS 17 brings a new Apple app called Journal that creates personalized suggestions to inspire writing. These suggestions are curated from information on your iPhone, like photos, location, music and workouts.

    Journal gives you the option to select a moment, like “morning visit, Ocean Beach,” and start writing. You can also schedule notifications to remind you to write and get new prompts. You can flag important moments so that you can reflect on them later.

    Live Voicemail

    And iPhone with a Live Voicemail transcriptionAnd iPhone with a Live Voicemail transcription

    Live Voicemail lets you preview a transcription in real time as a voicemail is being recorded.

    Apple

    Another new talent iOS 17 has involves your voicemail. When someone calls you and leaves a message, you’ll see a live transcription in real time as they speak. The new service is called Live Voicemail and it kind of feels like the days of answering machines, when my dad would screen a call. For Live Voicemail, you’ll see the voicemail right on your screen so you can decide whether to step out and take the call. The feature is powered by your iPhone’s neural engine in order to preserve your privacy. Live Voicemail seems identical to Call Screen on Google Pixel phones which isn’t a bad thing.

    FaceTime messages

    iOS 17 will let you record a video message in FaceTime. It’s a heavily requested feature that will ensure you can document and share important moments, even if someone misses your call.

    Messages Check In

    iOS 17 comes with a new location-sharing tool called Check In.

    Apple/GIF by Arielle Burton/CNET

    Apple is expanding and simplifying its location sharing via Messages. The new feature, called Check In, is for letting a loved one know you made it to your destination safely. Whether you’re walking home after dark or going for an early morning run, you can start a Check In with a family member or friend and as soon as you arrive home, it will automatically let your friend know. But if something unexpected happens, it can recognize that you’re not near your destination and check in with you. If you don’t respond, Check In can automatically share your current location, the route you took, your iPhone’s battery level and cell service status; all of which is end-to-end encrypted.

    Messages get a handful of fixes and additions

    A message thread showing an audio recording and its transcriptionA message thread showing an audio recording and its transcription

    The Messages app will get transcriptions for audio messages in iOS 17.

    Apple

    The tried-and-true Messages app gets a handful of updates, including a visual overhaul of your iMessage apps which will no longer live above your keyboard and instead be accessible via a plus sign on the bottom left.

    Searching through your Messages becomes a lot easier on iOS 17 with the addition of filters. When you start a search in the Messages app, you will be able to add terms to narrow the results.

    Another welcome addition is transcription for audio messages. If you’re someone who has friends or family members who send you audio messages, you’ll be able to read a transcription of the recording right in the Messages app.

    There’s also a new “catch up arrow” in Messages. It sits in the top right of your conversation and lets you jump to the first message you haven’t read. This could be a killer feature for managing group chats. Apple also made inline replies faster. In iOS 17, you’ll be able to just swipe to reply on any message bubble.

    Apple fixes ‘ducking’ autocorrect

    Autocorrect will become more intelligent and can fix more grammatical mistakes. Reverting words back to what you typed is easier. And apparently, autocorrect will learn and let you use curse words. Duck, yeah!

    An iPhone with the Stickers drawer in Messages openAn iPhone with the Stickers drawer in Messages open

    Messages adds a bunch of Sticker features.

    Apple

    iMessage stickers get a new drawer to bring all the stickers you’ve used into one place. And now emoji are stickers. You can peel and stick an emoji sticker to a message bubble, rotate and resize it. Last year in iOS 16, Apple introduced the ability to lift a subject from the background of a photo as part of Visual Lookup. With iOS 17, you can turn a photo’s subject into a sticker in Messages.

    The Stickers drawer also has a Live Stickers tab that lets you create a Sticker animation (aka a GIF) from a Live Photo. Stickers can be accessed system wide in things like Tapback, Markup and third-party apps; basically anywhere you can access emoji.

    wwdc-new-seq-00-00-01-13-still001.pngwwdc-new-seq-00-00-01-13-still001.png
    Watch this: Apple Reveals iOS 17

    16:43

    But wait, there are more iOS 17 features

    As is typical with WWDC, there are a lot more additions and improvements to iOS 17 than Apple showed during the keynote. Some notable highlights include:

    • Triggering Siri by just saying, “Siri” instead of “Hey, Siri”
    • Download offline maps in the Maps app
    • New profiles for Safari and your passwords
    • Auto retrieval of one-time verification codes from the Mail app
    • Interactive widgets (which was featured in-depth during the iPadOS portion)

    iOS 17 will be out in full this fall and work on the iPhone XS, XR and newer, including the 2020 iPhone SE.

  • Amazon to Launch Prime Video Plan With Ads, Report Says

    Amazon to Launch Prime Video Plan With Ads, Report Says

    Amazon is reportedly planning to launch an ad-supported tier of its Prime Video streaming service. During the past several weeks, the retail giant has been discussing a variety of options to introduce ads to Prime Video, according to a Wednesday report from The Wall Street Journal.

    Prime Video includes original TV shows and movies created by Amazon Studios as well as hundreds of other titles you can stream as part of your subscription. Prime Video subscribers can also add on subscriptions to HBO, Showtime, Starz and several other channels for an extra monthly cost. There are also movies and shows you can rent or buy on the platform.

    Prime Video is included in an Amazon Prime membership, which costs $15 a month or $139 annually, or available as a standalone subscription for $9 a month. CNET’s review of Prime Video says it’s a “really great included perk” with a Prime membership, but that it’s a weaker standalone service compared with other options like Netflix and Hulu.

    Netflix and Disney Plus both introduced ad-supported tiers to their services last year, joining most other major streaming services, like Max (perviously HBO Max) and Hulu, which offer a plan with advertising. Paramount Plus and Peacock are on the lower end, with ad-supported plans starting at $5 a month, while Max is on the higher end, with its ad-supported plan costing $10 per month.

    It’s unclear how much a Prime Video plan with ads might cost. One option reportedly being discussed is adding ads for existing Prime Video subscribers, and offering a more expensive ad-free version.

    Amazon didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

    Amazon does have experience with ad-supported streaming, through Amazon Freevee. The streaming service, which was previously IMDb TV, doesn’t require a paid subscription and is supported by limited ads. It includes a mix of Amazon and Freevee originals as well as other movies and shows. There’s also a Freevee channel for Prime Video.

    Not sure which streaming service is best for you? CNET has ranked all the major streaming services and can help you find the best live TV streaming service or best free TV streaming service.

  • Samsung Expected to Show Off Galaxy Z Flip 5 in First Seoul Unpacked

    Samsung Expected to Show Off Galaxy Z Flip 5 in First Seoul Unpacked

    Samsung plans to hold its next Galaxy Unpacked event in its home country for the first time next month, the Korean electronics giant announced late Tuesday.

    Samsung’s 27th Unpacked launch event will take place in Seoul in late July, the company said in a statement that indicated it would unveil its next generation of foldable devices. This could include the expected Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5. In the past, Samsung has usually chosen to unveil its new lineup of devices in cities such as New York and Barcelona.

    Foldable phones have garnered a lot of attention in recent years, though they’ve yet to hit the breakout moment when they graduate from being a novelty device. But they do appear to be picking up steam: In just the last few weeks, Google announced its first foldable phone, called the Pixel Fold, and Motorola unveiled the new Razr Plus and Razr.

    “The foldable category embodies Samsung’s philosophy of delivering breakthrough innovation that pushes boundaries to reshape the future of mobile experiences,” TM Roh, the head of the mobile experience business at Samsung, said in a statement.

    With the release last year of the Galaxy Z Flip 4, Samsung’s current flagship foldable, the company took a step in the right direction in its quest to win over consumers’ interest and wallets, CNET’s Lisa Eadicicco wrote earlier this month.

    She praised the device’s fine-tuned design, improved nighttime photography and longer battery life. But she still has a wish list of improvement suggestions she thinks will make Samsung’s foldable more attractive.

    Eadicicco suggests the Galaxy Z Flip 5 needs a bigger cover screen and could add more functionality to Flex Mode, which taps into the phone’s ability to bend and fold in different ways.

    Samsung didn’t announce a specific date for the event or tease specific products expected to be announced, but perhaps a new Galaxy Z Flip will be unveiled that taps these suggestions. You can expect CNET to be on hand for the event with all the details, commentary and expert insight.