In this article:

• Build-it-yourself resume options
• Professional resume writing services

A well-crafted resume is crucial for job seekers who want to stand out from the competition, but the building process can be confusing and overwhelming. You have to figure out the right formatting, level of detail and tone for your experience. Fortunately, there are resume-writing services that can help with these decisions.

Some of what you’ll need to include in your resume depends on the industry you want to work in. While it can vary, employers will likely look at your work history and examine how concisely you present the information, how long you held positions and how well your experience matches the job you’re applying for.

When creating this list, we examined multiple factors such as affordability, ease of use, accessibility, the company’s privacy policy and more. The best resume-building services offer suggestions, templates and sometimes even on-hand professionals to help you build a resume that will put your best foot forward to potential employers. If you’re currently unemployed, check out our list of resources for you and your situation, as well as information on health insurance, student loans and housing.

Some of our picks for best resume writing services are free, some enlist the help of professional writers and some require a subscription or one-time payment.

Build-it-yourself resume options

If you need some guidance on creating or updating a resume but aren’t ready to spring for professional service, check out these online resume-building tools to help you find templates and guides for doing it yourself.

We’ve also included information on each services’ privacy policy. Many of these apps make resumes — which generally contain some personal information — publicly available. If the site isn’t secure, you may be at risk for identity theft or scams.

Resume.com

Resume.com

Best free resume builder

Resume.com is a completely free resume writer that offers dozens of templates for creating your resume or cover letter, as well as job boards and career advice. You have the option to upload and edit an existing resume, create a new one or edit one of the sample resumes offered on the site. It’s intuitive and easy to use, and it creates a professional-looking final product.

When starting from scratch, you’ll go section by section, entering your education, employment history, hobbies and interests, professional skills, languages and references. Resume.com provides question prompts and tips for guidance, as well as career-specific examples you can add if you’re struggling to find the right words.

You can also choose to forgo any of these sections, rearrange sections and add custom ones depending on what you need. As you update and save each section, you can see how it will appear on the page on your resume preview to the right. You can also change the template, font style and size, or spacing any time and see it update in real time in the preview.

Once you’re done, you can download your new resume (in PDF, DocX, RTF or TXT format), create a custom URL or print it out. You also have the option to upload it to Indeed, a job search site that partners with Resume.com. The account you make will work with both Indeed and Resume.com.

On the privacy side, Resume.com does collect user information. If you want to delete your account, simply click your profile icon and then Account. Clicking Close My Account deletes your account and your data. If you didn’t make an account, you can still choose Delete Guest Data. You can also request your data, and the company will send you an email with what it has collected.

Of the reviews on Trustpilot, 71% are positive, but some negative reviews speak of the difficulty unsubscribing from paid services, so read carefully as you use the free aspects of this service.

See at Resume.com

Resume Genius

Resume Genius

Best option for your first resume

The website Resume Genius says you can “make a professional resume in 12 minutes.” We tested it out and indeed had a solid first draft of an easy resume completed in about 10 minutes… give or take a few minutes spent looking up dates.

You can create a new resume or upload a document for editing. Resume Genius takes you step by step through the process, starting with a series of questions (“Do you have work experience?” and “What’s your highest level of education?”). Your answers lead you to boxes of additional information.

Resume Genius is particularly helpful with filling in sections like “work responsibilities.” You can search for a position and see prewritten options that you can add or edit, or just fill in your own. When finished, you can easily toggle between different templates to see what looks best for the final product. You also have the option to directly share your resume with Indeed or Resume Library. Note that if you register on the site, Resume Genius does collect personally identifiable information and may share it with third parties for advertising and other purposes, according to its privacy policy.

The site can also help you build cover letters and curriculum vitae. After you input all your information, you can choose different layout styles and colors. It’s easy to move through, but you have to do it in order and fill in all the information before continuing. Resume Genius also offers blog-style articles with tips for creating resumes, as well as examples of resumes, CVs and cover letters for specific jobs. The site also generates recommended jobs near you.

You can download the resume you create for $2.95 (which starts a 14-day trial for Resume Genius Pro), or $7.95 (which kicks off a monthly subscription plan). However, if you fail to cancel your trial before the 14 days are up, you’ll be billed for $24.95 every four weeks, according to the site. The monthly plan bills annually at $95.40.

On the downside, the account deletion process is buried in the Terms of Service. According to Resume Genius, full data erasure can take up 30 days, but they may retain “certain information in accordance with privacy laws.”

On Trustpilot at the time of this writing, the site has 4.8 out of 5 stars based on more than 30,000 reviews.

See at Resume Genius

Screenshot by CNET

Indeed Resume Builder

Easiest to use

It’s free to create a resume or post your current resume on Indeed. If you’re building a new one, you can choose between eight templates. The resume sections are highlighted and when you click, each section expands specific text fields. You can swap templates at any time without losing your work, too. There are also options for toggling sections on and off, as well as rearranging them. When you’re finished, you can download a free PDF of your work history.

Indeed Resume Builder also offers optional professional advice for your new resume. After you download the resume you created, you’ll get a prompt and can click Get Resume Help From a Real Person.

Fill out a short questionnaire about what type of help you want, upload your resume (it’s OK if you haven’t built one). This service usually costs $89 unless you’ve applied to at least 10 jobs using your Indeed resume. According to Indeed, if you haven’t received an interview request within 60 days of receiving your new resume, you can request a one-time rewrite of your resume.

For $19, you can take a quiz and get feedback from a professional to get you started. You can also use Indeed’s automated instant report system for free. The system returns quick tips to improve your resume.

Indeed’s privacy policy says that it does collect and share user data with third party providers to connect job seekers with employers and improve services. According to Indeed’s privacy policy, you can request account or personal data deletion, as well as request that your data not be shared while your account is active.

CNET reached out to Indeed for more information and we’ll update when we hear back.

See at Indeed

CV Engineer

CV Engineer

Most affordable paid resume builder

CV Engineer is an easy-to-use app that creates a professional-looking resume. With 16 templates to choose from, you can tap to enter information into all of the usual sections — career, education, skills and so on. When you tap on each section, you can tap through the bottom toolbar to get advice on what type of information to add, as well as resume examples to show you how the section should look. You can add custom sections, or delete sections as well.

CV Engineer lets you send or download your completed resume for free, but you can upgrade to CV Engineer Pro for a one-time payment of $4.49. This gives you access to unlimited downloads and the Scan My CV feature, which can detect common mistakes and suggest improvements, such as places where you can add more information. It also offers interview advice and a cover letter builder.

However, CV Engineer does collect personal information and can share it with Google Play Services and Firebase Analytics, according to its privacy policy. The app is both free to download and ad-free.

See at CV Engineer

Resume Star

Resume Star 2: Pro CV Designer

Best free iOS resume builder

Resume Star 2 isn’t the most visually stunning resume design app for iOS, but it gets the job done: Tap each section of a resume, fill in your information and it will fill in a traditional template (you only get one layout). The app offers some example resumes you can start with and edit if you want: cashier, dental hygienist, receptionist, waitress, mechanic and senior manager.

You can add or delete any sections you like without needing to hit save every time you add in information, and you can see your resume update as you go. The autosave feature makes it easy to toggle quickly between the different sections as well. At the end, you’ll have a basic resume ready to go.

The app’s interface doesn’t offer as much guidance about how to write your resume or what types of information to include by itself. If you need extra help, tap the information icon in the bottom left and choose the Resume Writing Guide. This will open up a crash course on resume writing in your mobile browser. It also includes a job search feature.

The app collects payment via donations: The app connects to iCloud, and you can export your resume as a PDF to anywhere, and if you are happy with the service, you can choose the $6 “helped a bit” tier, a standard purchase of $10, or the “really helped me” tier for $25.

The site does not collect personally identifiable information without user consent, which seems to make it one of the more secure options available.

Resume Star 2 has a 4.8 out of five rating, and more than 1,700 ratings in the App Store. The first version, Resume Star: Pro CV Maker, which is the same except for the iCloud connection, had a 4.9 star rating and more than 15,000 reviews.

See at Apple

Resume Builder App

Resume Builder app

Best free Android resume writing service

Intelligent CV’s Resume Builder App offers 42 resume templates and allows you to change font colors. Each resume section appears on a list, and you can move through sections in whichever order they choose, save, and go on to another. You also have the option to add, delete or rearrange sections such as education, experience and skills. Tap Help in each section for a little bit of extra guidance.

Once you’re finished, you can download your document for free as a PDF, which you can then save on your device or send via email or text.

Resume Builder App has one of the stronger privacy policies of the bunch: The app does not collect personally identifiable information, though third-party services (including Google Play services and analytics firms) may collect information.

On the downside, the app is ad-supported and ads for other resume creators do pop up, which can get confusing. The app also offers less guidance than some of the other services, which means it’s not a great option if you’re new to resumes.

The app has 4.6 out of 5 stars and more than 270,000 Google Play Store ratings and is free to download.

See at Intelligent CV

VisualCV

VisualCV

Widest range of professional tools

VisualCV has an easy-to-use interface that lets you build your resume in the way that works best for you. After signing up, you can upload an existing resume, begin with a prewritten sample or start entirely from scratch. Use the basic editor to input information in a list form, the visual editor to edit directly on the resume and the preview to see changes made on either version in real time. Revision history is also available.

The free basic edition allows you to select from over a dozen professional templates to create, edit and download one resume as a PDF. You can also create one free cover letter.

Unfortunately, you can’t download or share additional resumes without purchasing VisualCV Pro. Upgrading also unlocks more templates, unlimited creations, downloading, career tracking and a resume website. The website URL goes through VisualCV, but can be shared online, like a paperless resume. You can choose the quarterly plan for $15 a month or a $24 monthly plan.

The site includes a job search feature, allowing you to find and directly apply to jobs in your area. In terms of privacy, VisualCV’s policy said that it does not sell, trade, rent or license personal information to third parties.

As of publication, Resume.com has 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, but only 91 reviews.

See at VisualCV

Professional resume writing services

If you want to find a professional writer to edit your resume or create a brand-new one for you from scratch, check out some of the offerings below to find the best resume writing service for your budget and needs.

Resume Spice

ResumeSpice

A premium option for a tailored resume

If you’re totally lost and are willing to invest several hundred dollars into your job search, ResumeSpice is a resume writing and career coach service created by recruiters that connects you with a “resume expert” to build your CV from scratch.

Once you choose, you’ll fill out a short questionnaire and schedule a phone consultation with a resume expert to discuss your experience, job search and career goals. The expert will take that information and turn around a personalized resume draft within two business days. You can review the draft and request any changes, and you’ll get the final version in PDF and Word formats.

An entry-level resume costs $449, a professionally written resume costs $569, and an executive resume costs $689. You can also add a cover letter, LinkedIn profile, interview coaching or other services to help you be more competitive in the job market.

See at ResumeSpice

ResumeWriters.com

ResumeWriters.com

A 60-day interview guarantee

ResumeWriters.com offers a guarantee: If you don’t get a job interview with a potential employer within two months of getting your resume, they’ll rewrite it for free. The service claims that in the 10 years and tens of thousands of resumes completed under this guarantee, it averages fewer than five requests for rewrites per year.

To use the resume writing service, submit your current resume or career information on the site, and an experienced resume writer will contact you to assess your materials and plan out what you need. You’ll get a first draft back within 72 hours, and can work with the writer on revisions until you’re satisfied with the result.

ResumeWriters offers student, professional, executive and career-change resume services, as well as CV services for those conducting their job search in fields specific to the military, IT and research. The resume services cost $170 for the student level and $200 for the professional with a cover letter, one-on-one consultation and LinkedIn profile. There is even a comprehensive career change package with the previous package benefits plus a post-interview follow-up letter for $250, and an executive package with its most experienced writers for $300.

See at ResumeWriters.com

Zipjob

Zipjob

A fast pass through HR screening software

Zipjob offers professional resume writers who optimize your resume to get through the applicant tracking system software used by the majority of employers to automatically scan and sort resumes. An expert writes your resume and scans it through the ATS to ensure it will make it through to the hiring manager’s desk.

To use the service, upload your resume or fill out a form to start from scratch. You’ll be matched with a professional resume writer who will work with you to improve it, and will then scan the final product to make sure it passes through the screening algorithms. Depending on which package you choose, your resume will be ready in three to seven days.

Choose from three packages: Launch (resume writing and unlimited revisions for $139), Fast Track (adds a cover letter and a 60-day interview guarantee for $189) or Premium (adds a top resume writer, LinkedIn profile optimization, future resume updates and expedited delivery for $299).

See at Zipjob

Find My Profession

Find My Profession

An executive resume solution

Find My Profession offers professional resume writing services as well as career coaching. Every resume gets reviewed by two different consultants.

You’ll find resume writing packages that include entry-level, professional, C-level and executive resume writer services, as well as IT, engineering and federal resume writer options. In each, you can choose a base, premium or VIP level package depending on your needs. For example, the professional resume package starts at $595 for a resume that is compatible with automated systems and goes up to $695 to add a cover letter and $895 to add a LinkedIn profile.

You’ll get the first draft of your resume within three to five business days after your consultation with a writer. Or, upgrade to a priority service for another $149 to get it within 48 hours.

See at Find My Profession

If we can believe all the rumors and leaks, Apple, Samsung, Google and OnePlus may have a whole new wave of new phones coming this year.

Samsung and OnePlus will be among the first to release new devices. Samsung is expected to announce the Galaxy S23 on Feb. 1, while the OnePlus 11 5G will launch globally on Feb. 7.

Though it’s hard to predict exactly what’s in store for the smartphone industry in 2023, it’s possible to make some educated guesses, because many companies stick to the same launch routine each year. The iPhone 15 lineup, for example, is expected to arrive in September, possibly with USB-C charging for the first time. The Galaxy S23 Ultra could have Samsung’s new 200-megapixel camera sensor.

Such launches would come after smartphones took subtle but important steps forward in 2022. The iPhone 14, for example, gained satellite connectivity for emergencies and car-crash detection, while Google found more ways to make use of its custom Tensor chip in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Samsung, meanwhile, gave its flagship Galaxy S lineup a fresh look and an upgraded camera.

Here are the new phones we’re likely to see in 2023, based on previous launch cycles, rumors and reports.

Apple iPhone 15 lineup

What we’re expecting: Apple’s new iPhone family usually launches in September, and we have no reason to believe 2023 will be any different. The adoption of USB-C charging is one of the biggest changes we’re expecting to see on Apple’s next-generation iPhones.

The European Union recently mandated that all new phones sold in the region must support USB-C charging by 2024. Apple said it would comply with these rules but did not specify whether that means we’ll see a shift to USB-C starting in 2023. It’s also not confirmed if a USB-C iPhone would get a global release, or if it would remain solely a European model.

Otherwise, we’re likely to see routine changes such as some camera upgrades and a new processor. TF International Securities Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is known for making pretty accurate predictions about upcoming Apple products, tweeted that Apple may do more to distinguish the iPhone 15 Pro from the regular iPhone 15.

It already made a step in that direction with the iPhone 14 generation by keeping features like the Dynamic Island and new A16 Bionic processor exclusive to the Pro line. What’s more interesting, however, is the idea that Apple could further differentiate the larger iPhone 15 Pro Max from the smaller iPhone 15 Pro, according to Kuo.

The main difference between the regular Pro and Pro Max comes down to screen size. Giving the Pro Max some extra perks could further convince shoppers to splurge on Apple’s biggest (and most expensive) iPhone. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also believes Apple could change the name of the iPhone Pro Max to the iPhone Ultra in the future to better align with other products like the Apple Watch Ultra.

Why I’m excited about it: The iPhone’s long-anticipated transition to USB-C is arguably the biggest reason to get excited about Apple’s next smartphone. The switch means iPhone users will finally be able to charge their iPhone, iPad and Mac with the same type of charging cable, reducing friction and making the iPhone that much more convenient. I’m also looking forward to seeing whether Apple further distinguishes the iPhone 15 Pro Max from the iPhone 15 Pro. I’ve argued that Apple needs to give its supersized iPhones more functionality that takes advantage of their larger screens, similar to the iPad.

OnePlus 11 5G

What we’re expecting: The OnePlus 11 5G is already available in China, but the new phone will be launching globally on Feb. 7. Based on what we’ve learned from OnePlus China’s website, the new phone will have a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 100-watt fast charging. That’s a step up from the 80W fast charging that OnePlus offered on last year’s device, although unfortunately those speeds were capped at 65W on the US model.

The OnePlus 11 5G will also have a 50-megapixel main camera, 48-megapixel ultrawide camera and 32-megapixel telephoto camera. That lines up with previous specifications from well-known leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer that were published on the blog GadgetGang.

Why I’m excited about it: For a company that made its name as the “flagship killer,” OnePlus’ prices have inched closer to those of the rivals it aims to undercut in recent years. That said, OnePlus still has a reputation for selling reasonably priced devices that pack a lot of high-end features such as superfast charging.

The OnePlus 10 Pro came really close to being a superb iPhone competitor, as my colleague Andrew Lanxon wrote when he reviewed the device. But a slightly disappointing camera and restrictions such as a lack of 80-watt charging in the US held it back from being as great as it could be. Hopefully OnePlus addresses these criticisms in its next-generation device.

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Samsung Galaxy S23 lineup

What we’re expecting: Based on the rumors, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 could bring some noteworthy upgrades to the camera and design — two areas that have traditionally been a big focus for the South Korean tech giant.

The rumored Galaxy S23 Ultra could include a 200-megapixel main camera. In mid-January, Samsung announced a new image sensor capable of taking 200-megapixel photos, fueling more speculation that it will arrive in the Galaxy S23 Ultra.That sounds like a huge jump from the Galaxy S22 Ultra’s 108-megapixel main sensor on paper.

Samsung may also give the regular Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus a tweaked design that more closely matches that of the Ultra model. Images from reliable leaker Hemmerstoffer suggest Samsung will eliminate the camera bump from the S23 and S23 Plus, replacing it with the protruding lenses found on the Galaxy S22 Ultra. Images were published on the tech blogs Digit and Smartprix in partnership with Hemmerstoffer.

Although we don’t know precisely what to expect in terms of performance, Samsung usually puts Qualcomm’s latest mobile chip in the new version of its phones that launch in the United States and certain other markets. That means we will likely see the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in Samsung’s next Galaxy phone. The new chip offers better power efficiency, ray tracing for improved aesthetics in mobile games and upgraded AI that can better separate you from your Zoom background, among other enhancements. The analyst Kuo even believes Samsung could ditch its own Exynos processors and rely solely on Qualcomm for the Galaxy S23.

Why I’m excited about it: Smartphone cameras have already gotten so sophisticated that I’m curious to see whether a 200-megapixel sensor actually makes a meaningful difference. Either way, it’ll be interesting to see how Samsung pushes the camera experience forward in the S23 lineup given the increased competition from Google’s Pixel series in recent years. I’m also in favor of the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus’ rumored design change to more closely resemble the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Based on the renders, it looks cleaner and sleeker compared with the Galaxy S22’s camera bump.

Google Pixel 7A

What we’re expecting: If Google maintains its tradition, we could see a cheaper version of the Pixel 7 known as the Pixel 7A launch in the spring or summer time frame. Rumors about the Pixel 7A are scarce right now. But developer Kuba Wojciechowski says he found details possibly pertaining to the Pixel 7A in the Android codebase, suggesting that some fairly significant upgrades are in store.

Wojciechowski’s findings indicate the Pixel 7A could have a screen with a higher refresh rate of 90Hz and wireless charging — two characteristics that are noticeably absent from the Pixel 6A. Leaked renders from Hemmerstoffer that were once again published on Smartprix also suggest the Pixel 7A will have a very similar design as its predecessor.

The Pixel 7A could also include the same Tensor G2 processor that powers the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro as well as a camera setup that includes wide and ultrawide sensors. That’s if the Pixel 7A follows in the same footsteps as the Pixel 6A, of course.

Why I’m excited about it: Google’s A-series Pixel phones are seriously impressive from a value standpoint. That’s why the Pixel 6A has received a CNET Editors’ Choice award and is our favorite Android phone under $500. If Google manages to address the Pixel 6A’s very few shortcomings while maintaining the same price of $449, it’ll be an even more formidable challenger to Samsung in the affordable phone market.

Google Pixel 8 lineup

What we’re expecting: Google’s Pixel 7 and 7 Pro have only been out since mid-October 2022, but rumors have already started to surface about the Pixel 8 family. German tech blog WinFuture reports that it found references to two unreleased Pixel smartphones in publicly available code. The findings indicate that these two devices are codenamed “Shiba” and “Husky” and that they’re powered by a new processor codenamed “Zuma.” The code also suggests these devices will run on Android 14 and include 12GB of RAM, according to WinFuture.

Why I’m excited about it: There haven’t been many rumors about the expected Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which means there isn’t too much to get excited about yet. But what I’m most interested in is what new features Google’s next-generation chip will bring to its future phones. Google’s current Tensor chips have enabled features that seem practical and useful in everyday life, such as Magic Eraser and Face Unblur for improving photo quality and the ability to add speaker labels to transcripts in the Recorder app. That makes me excited about where Google could take things next.

Google Pixel Fold

What we’re expecting: Google hasn’t entered the foldable phone race yet, but that could change soon. Google may release a foldable phone in 2023 that looks like the Oppo Find N, according to 9to5Google. YouTube personality Dave2D says he received a blank model showing what the rumored Pixel Fold’s design could look like, and it kind of resembles Microsoft’s Surface Duo.

Developer Kuba Wojciechowski also reportedly discovered clues in the Android 13 beta hinting at a possible foldable Pixel device. The code suggested the phone would have a main, telephoto and ultrawide camera just like most premium phones, along with the same inner selfie camera as the Pixel 6.

Why we’re excited about it: We won’t know anything for certain unless Google announces a foldable phone. But there are a couple of reasons why I’m excited about the idea of a Pixel Fold.

Google typically undercuts Samsung and other phone makers on price, meaning the Pixel Fold could end up being fairly affordable compared to competitors. Foldables are also still largely a novelty. They appeal to early adopters, but most people still don’t really see the value in foldable phones just yet. Foldables phones are only expected to have accounted for 1.1% of the global smartphone market in 2022, according to The International Data Corporation’s estimate.

Since Google operates Android and has a history of coming up with unique features for its regular Pixel phones, I’m hoping it’ll do the same for a Pixel Fold. With its current Pixel devices, Google has added helpful features like the ability to sharpen photos that are out of focus and have Google Assistant wait on hold for you. If it does release a foldable, I’d like to see it follow the same approach and develop creative, useful features that take advantage of a foldable screen.

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

What we’re expecting: Samsung may be best known for its Galaxy S devices, but its series of Galaxy A phones are worth your attention if you’re shopping on a tighter budget. The next phone in this series is expected to be called the Galaxy A54 5G, following the Galaxy A53 5G’s launch last spring.

Based on the few leaks that have surfaced so far, the Galaxy A54 5G will be a modest improvement over the A53 5G. It’s expected to have a 6.4-inch screen, which is slightly smaller than the A53’s 6.5-inch display, and a triple rear camera. That’s according to the leaker Hemmerstoffer, who shared with the tech blog 91Mobiles renders purporting to show the Galaxy A54 5G’s design. A report from the Dutch tech site Galaxy Club also suggests the A54 5G could have a slightly larger battery than its predecessor.

Why I’m excited about it: When I tested the Galaxy A53 5G around the time of its launch, I thought it felt much more expensive than it actually was. It’s not perfect, but Samsung provides a well-rounded package for the price with the Galaxy A53 5G. I’m hoping the success of Google’s Pixel A series motivates Samsung to up its budget phone game even further.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

What we’re expecting: Even though foldable phones are still new to most people, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold will be on its fifth generation in 2023. The next version of Samsung’s phone-tablet hybrid could have a slot for storing Samsung’s S Pen stylus, a lighter design and a less noticeable crease, according to Korean news outlet The Elec. The report didn’t definitively say the Z Fold 5 will have these improvements, but did say Samsung has cited them as barriers that must be overcome to make foldable phones more popular.

Otherwise, we can probably expect to see routine improvements to the camera and processor in the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Samsung also added some new multitasking features to the Z Fold 4 this year, such as the ability to use the bottom portion of the screen as a mini trackpad when the display is folded halfway. So there’s a chance we’ll see other software enhancements in the future, too.

Samsung typically releases its new foldable phones in August, meaning we’re likely to see the next Z Fold around that time.

Why I’m excited about it: The Galaxy Z Fold 5 needs a lot more than an included S Pen to bring foldables into the mainstream. But making the S Pen a bigger part of the experience could go a long way in further defining who the Z Fold is for and why it exists in the first place. Samsung is promoting the Z Fold 5 as a productivity-oriented device, so having an embedded S Pen seems like a natural move. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Fold 3 are both compatible with the S Pen, but they must be purchased separately.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

What we’re expecting: Samsung’s next flip phone may have a larger cover screen and a less noticeable crease, according to Ross Young, co-founder and CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants. Ross recently tweeted that the Z Flip 5 will have a cover display measuring around 3 inches and a new hinge design that could make the crease more subtle. That would represent a sizable increase from the current Z Flip 4’s 1.9-inch cover screen. Like with the Z Fold 5, there’s a chance we’ll see general improvements to camera quality and software as well as a new processor.

Why I’m excited about it: Making the cover screen slightly larger would address one of the Z Flip’s biggest shortcomings. As my colleague Patrick Holland wrote in his review of the Z Flip 4, the cover screen is the biggest area where Samsung could be doing more. I’m also hoping to see longer battery life from the Z Flip 5 considering that’s another area where Samsung’s current flip phone could use some improvement.

Overall

It seems like some of the biggest improvements we’re expecting to see across the board on new smartphones in 2023 will have to do with battery and charging improvements, as well as camera and design upgrades. We’ll know more throughout the year as more reports and rumors arrive, and as Samsung, OnePlus, Apple and Google actually debut their devices.

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

$750 at Best Buy

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Meta Quest 2

Best (and still most affordable) VR headset

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.

$350 at Best Buy

$400 at Meta

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HP Reverb G2

Highest-resolution PC VR headset

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.

$449 at HP

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Valve Index

One of the best Steam VR hardware options

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.

$999 at Steam

Sarah Tew/CNET

Sony PlayStation VR

Best bet: wait for PSVR 2 on PS5

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

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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 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.

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ExpressVPN

Best VPN for streaming

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.

See at ExpressVPN

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 Plus

Watch the FA Cup in the US from $10 per month

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.

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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

ITV

Watch the FA Cup in the UK for free

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.

See at ITV

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

Watch the FA Cup in Canada for CA$15 a month

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.

See at SN Now

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.

Paramount Plus

Watch the FA Cup in Australia for AU$9 a month

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.

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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.

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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.

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

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4

Best all-round foldable phone

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.

$1,920 at Samsung

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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4

Best compact folding phone

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.

$1,060 at Samsung

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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3

Samsung’s smaller foldable, now cheaper

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.

$750 at Amazon

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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.

Motorola Razr (2020)

The cheapest folding phone

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.

$600 at Motorola

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.

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.

James Bond Movies Ranked, From Sean Connery to Daniel Craig

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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

Best VPN for streaming

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.

See at ExpressVPN

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 Plus

Watch the FA Cup in the US from $10 per month

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.

See at ESPN

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

ITV

Watch the FA Cup in the UK for free

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.

See at ITV

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

Watch the FA Cup in Canada for CA$15 a month

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.

See at SN Now

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.

Paramount Plus

Watch the FA Cup in Australia for AU$9 a month

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.

See at Paramount Plus