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Best Xbox One Horror Games in 2020

If you are a horror game fan, you cannot do better than play on Xbox One. With plenty of options, you can play all day long and still not finish up. These titles are known to be scary and terrifying to make even the bravest of all tremble. If you want an overdose, why not switch off the lights, set the atmosphere, and get gaming from this list of the best Xbox One horror games.

#1 Resident Evil 2: Best Xbox One Horror Games

Resident Evil 2 was released nearly after two decades post its predecessor. The remake does not feature the fixed-camera for an over-the-shoulder perspective as before. However, the gameplay still maintains the essence of the classic game. Capcom developed this survival horror game and released it in 1998. It was released for PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, and Xbox One. The players take on the roles of police officer Leon S. Kennedy and college student Claire Redfield as they try to flee from Raccoon City during a zombie apocalypse. With Shinji Mikami, the creator of this series focused on the development of Resident Evil 4, they never got around to the remake of Resident Evil 2. After a successful remake of Resident Evil 1 in 2002, this has been on the cards.

Resident Evil 2

#2 Blair Witch

The Blair Witch Project movie is also available as a horror game for Xbox One and PC. It has been created and developed by Bloober Team of Layers of Fear and Observer. The team has done a great job of making the psychological horror meet signature found-footage themes. The game revolves around a young person and his friends who make their way into the Black Hills Forest in Maryland to find his sister who is missing. Most believe that her disappearance is linked to the legend of the Blair Witch. In the beginning, they have two local guides with them. However, as they proceed, things take a more sinister turn.

#3 Layers of Fear

Layers of Fear is the story of a traumatized painter who is trying to finish his masterpiece as he moves around a mansion, where alarming secrets about the painter is discovered. As the player, you will move through mazes of corridors and doors. The game targets the fear of the unknown with matching soundtrack. It was released for OS X, PlayStation 4, Linux, Microsoft Windows, and Xbox One. The gameplay is in the first-person perspective, with a lot of headway made through exploration and puzzle-solving. There was also a limited physical retail release for the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4.

Layers of Fear

#4 Dead Space

Dead Space was developed by Visceral Games and created by Glen Schofield and Michael Condrey. This science-fiction horror media franchise covers two movies and a comic book series. Once the game was developed, it was received well and became quite popular. The game is set in 26th-century science fiction universe with relevant weapons, characters, and surroundings. While the chronology of the series is not linear, it still manages to make sense. It is one of the most terrifying games out there. It is playable via Xbox One backward compatibility. The game is so captivating and engaging that it has won a number of awards for its gameplay and graphics.

#5 Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

Capcom developed this survival horror game. It was released for PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One, and later, Nintendo joined the list. Where the previous titles in the series were more action-based, Resident Evil 7 is focused on the horror genre and exploration. You can play this game in first-person in a tense, engaging, and scary background. Ethan Winters is the lead character here as he tries to find his wife in an abandoned plantation inhabited by a cannibal family. You can make your way ahead by fighting enemies and solving puzzles.

Resident Evil 7 – Biohazard

#6 The Evil Within 2

The Evil Within 2 is a third-person survival horror video game. Tango Gameworks developed the game while Bethesda Softworks published it. The game was released for PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, and Xbox One. It comes as no surprise that the game is the sequel to The Evil Within video game that was released in 2014. The game manages to capture the essence of unhinged psychological horror while scaring the daylights out of the players. In order to progress, the players will need to stay alert and alive while efficiently managing the resources. The game received positive reviews for its gameplay, storyline, graphics, and atmosphere.

#7 Observer

Observer was developed by Bloober Team and published by Aspyr. The game was released for PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, and Xbox One. The game follows a detective known as an Observer, Daniel Lazarski. He can hack people’s minds as a tool of interrogation. He uses augmented vision to scrutinize his environment. The Observer takes the player through the game as the uncertainly builds on, making you more nervous by the minute. Did you know that the game was developed using the Unreal Engine 4 by a team of about 30 developers?

Observer

#8 Alien: Isolation

Alien: Isolation is a survival horror video game developed by Creative Assembly in 2014. It was published by Sega for Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. It is set 15 years ahead of the events on the 1979 film Alien. The game follows Amanda Ripley, who tries to find her the Alien protagonist mother, Ellen Ripley. She is trapped in a space station with a very real extra-terrestrial threat. You, as the player, will have to outwit Alien creatures using motion tracker and flamethrower. The game became a huge hit. It easily sold over two million copies.

Wrapping Up: Best Xbox One Horror Games

With this list, here’s hoping that you get your fill of horror video games. With each game coming at you from a different horror perspective, you will never get tired of gaming. Thank god for horror video games! Keep the lights on tonight!

February 13, 2020
Redmi Note 8 Pro Vs Realme X2: Tested By Our Team

Realme is a huge brand and a sister company of Vivo and Oppo. The main strategy of the company is to go ahead of Xiaomi and its ultra-successful Redmi lineup. They are working to create better products that Xiaomi’s Redmi series, both in terms of the features and price. Surprisingly, Realme has managed to be quite successful with the company releasing several popular products in 2019. Xiaomi and Realme engaged in a furious battle to prove their superiority against each other. The two most well-received models are Realme X2 and Redmi Note 8 Pro. Let’s see who wins the “Redmi Note 8 Pro Vs Realme X2” battle.

Redmi Note 8 Pro Vs Realme X2

Both these smartphones have quite a few features in common, such as a beautiful design, gaming-friendly performance, same-sized screens, and matching camera setups. Where the Realme smartphone boasts of a high-tech under-display fingerprint reader and a Super AMOLED panel, the Redmi smartphone comes with the latest MIUI version 11 and a massive battery. In this post, let’s take a look at how the Redmi Note 8 and Realme X2 perform against each other.

Design and Build: Redmi Note 8 Pro Vs Realme X2

If you are looking to differentiate between the phones in terms of build and material quality, both of them are quite similar. Both the model feature plastic frames and Gorilla Glass 5 panels. At the rear, Realme’s camera is located at the top left corner while Redmi’s camera is in the centre. Both offer classic white and black colours in addition to some vibrant ones. The screen is very similar with both the models sporting a large screen with rounded corners and droplet-cutouts. While the Redmi Note 8 Pro features a large 6.53″ IPS LCD screen, the Realme X2 has a smaller but 6.4″ Super AMOLED display.

Since the Realme X2 has a thinner OLED panel, it also comes with an under-screen fingerprint reader. While Redmi’s scanner is at the back and not under-screen, it tends to work better and faster. The Redmi Note 8 Pro has a small white notification LED in the notch where the X2 does not have something like this at all. Realme X2 features a lovely matte finish, offering better handling and grip while the Redmi Note 8 Pro has a simple plastic frame. The X2 comes with a dedicated microSD slot but the Note 8 Pro features a hybrid solution where users can choose to go with either a second SIM card or extra storage.

Redmi Note 8 Pro Against Realme X2

Displays

The Realme X2 features a 6.4″ Super AMOLED screen with a waterdrop-styled notch. The smartphone has a resolution is 1,080 x 2,340px resolution with 19.5:9 aspect ratio and 403ppi density. As discussed above, the panel has rounded corners with Gorilla Glass 5 protecting it. The Redmi Note 8 Pro, on the other hand, has a larger 6.53″ IPS LCD screen. This model also has a waterdrop-shaped notch, 1,080 x 2,340 pixels resolution, and 19.5:9 aspect. However, the pixel density has dropped to 395ppi since the size of the panel is larger. We cannot compare the maximum brightness of the two phones since the brightness of AMOLEDs and LCDs cannot be reasonably compared since they are two completely different types of screens.

Battery Life

Coming to the battery, the X2 has a 4,000mAh battery while the Note 8 Pro beats that with a slightly larger one at 4,500mAh. In the tests, the Redmi Note 8 Pro performed better in web browsing, standby, and 3G talks. However, with video playback, the X2 did much better than the Note 8 Pro. In charging speeds, we can see a difference. The Realme X2’s battery is smaller and hence, the faster 30W charger allows the device to be charged to about 67% in 30 minutes. With regards to the Redmi Note 8 Pro, its 18W charger managed to charge only about 39%. For a full charge, you can expect the Note 8 Pro to take slightly more than 100 minutes while the X2 can get it done in 73 minutes.

Redmi Note 8 Pro

Audio and Speakers Quality

Both Redmi Note 8 Pro and the Realme X2 feature bottom-firing speakers with more or less the same output. We have noticed that the Realme X2 is slightly louder and better than the Note 8 Pro. With audio, both smartphones did extremely well. The Redmi Note 8 Pro can reach pretty high volume levels without distorting the sounds. Both devices worked excellently with an active amplifier and gave quite accurate outputs.

ColorOS 6.1 Vs. MIUI 11

Both the Redmi Note 8 Pro and Realme X2 run on Android 9-based launchers. The X2 is working on ColorOS 6.1 and is shortly expected to get the ColorOS 7 update in a few weeks. On the other hand, the Note 8 Pro is running on MIUI 11. Even if the device you purchase is with MIUI 10, you will find an MIUI 11 update waiting for you. Both ColorOS and MIUI has been in the works for a long time and the developers have been perfecting it. While they both look vastly different, they work on pretty similar lines, such as customization, robust options, and a simplified interface.

Realme X2

Camera Comparision

The X2 has a quad-camera at the rear with a 64MP primary cam with f/1.8 aperture, 0.8µm pixels, and PDAF. The 8MP ultra-wide snapper comes with 13mm f/2.3 lens and 1.12µm pixels, 2MP the macro camera is with f/2.4 with larger 1.75µm pixels, but its focus is fixed. The last one is a 2MP depth sensor and the set up comes with a single-LED flash.

Coming to the Redmi Note 8 Pro, the phone also has a 64MP primary with f/1.89 aperture, 0.8µm pixels, and PDAF. Other sensors include an 8MP snapper with 13mm f/2.2 lens and 1.12µm pixels and a 2MP macro camera with f/2.4 aperture, 1.75µm pixels, and autofocus. The phone also has a 2MP depth sensor and dual-LED flash.

Verdict: Redmi Note 8 Pro Vs Realme X2

Both Realme X2 and Redmi Note 8 Pro are well-known rivals. However, they are quite similar in their features as well, not to mention the price tag! If you are not partial to one of the brands, you may have a hard time choosing between them since both the device perform equally well in most aspects.

February 10, 2020
Game consoles excluded from tariffs on Chinese imports ‘until further notice’

Video game consoles will not be affected directly by the tariffs placed on Chinese imports at this time. Towards the end of 2019, a more stable decision. Here, a temporary exemption was given to the consoles. The Electronic Software Association confirmed to Polygon stating that the United States Trade Representative “has suspended the tariffs on consoles until further notice.” Game consoles excluded from tariffs could lead to several issues.

The ESA or the Electronic Software Association’s statement supports the news shared by USTR. This is regarding the first phase of a trade deal between the U.S. and China. It is part of ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries. The same statement also included the kinds of goods that had tariffs delayed from September to mid-December. This involved laptop computers, game consoles, and cell phones who have had their tariffs suspended indefinitely.

Exclusion for Tariffs

Console makers, such as Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo have all spoken out against this issue. Not once or twice, but for several months before this happened. They had also crafted an open letter. This warned that this could potentially have a huge economic impact on the video game ecosystem and industry.

Game consoles excluded from tariffs

Last year, the Trump Government increased on tariffs for Chinese goods by 25 per cent. After that, the video games and electronic systems market feared that the fast-rising industry would come to a complete halt. Sometime in November last year, it came to light that China and the US have come to an agreement after rounds of negotiation.

The agreement was mainly discussed between the U.S. and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce. Here, the discussion was about the tariff towards video game consoles among other goods that will be imported from China. While it was in talks for a long time, this was only confirmed in January 2020.

ESA and USTR

Polygon received a report where the ESA stated that Office of the United States Trade Representative has confirmed the suspension of the tariffs on video game consoles. This took place just last week although negotiations surrounding this has been going for several weeks now. The USTR has decided to suspend the tariffs on consoles until further notice. This has boosted the video game industry since the tariffs could increase the trade for the American economy as well.

US-China Trade War

This decision safeguards the console manufacturers for a while. However, tabletops are not safe. Modern sets for tabletop needs specific raw materials to develop the games. This could fall under the specified tariffs on the Chinese market. While the US economy might not be as affected by this as that of the video games, it would still suffer a bit. John Stacy, the Executive Director of Game Manufacturers Association, says that efforts to execute the same exception for tabletop and other related products are underway. He says, “We are working to roll these back as well as prevent the imposition of tariffs on toys and games which was paused by the Phase One Agreement.”

February 9, 2020
Google I/O 2020 starts May 12th

Recently, Google released its “Collaboration of the Cosmos” puzzle. The idea was that Google would only reveal a secret if the puzzle was solved successfully. Happy news ahead! The puzzle was just solved just meeting the threshold. The big reveal was that Google I/O 2020 will take place from May 12 – 14. The developer conference is scheduled to take place in Mountain View, California right next to the Googleplex. The company is known to wait for fans to crack the puzzles before announcing its dates. The puzzle was a collaborative online game to restore a fictional satellite network. Once the game came to an end, the constellation of satellites revealed the date.

Google I/O 2020

However, unlike the previous I/O puzzles, Google decided to only reveal the message after a certain number managed to crack it. This is the fifth year that the tech giant has planned to host its developer conference at the Shoreline Amphitheatre. This concert venue is a short walk from the company headquarters. The outdoor stage is pretty large and is now being readied to host Sundar Pichai’s main keynote. The company is working on erecting air-conditioned tents in the surrounding parking lots in addition to relaxation areas, demo areas, and more.

Google I/O 2020

If you compare the dates to last year, you will note that the dates for the event fall a week later this year. The event is scheduled to start on Tuesday morning and wrapped up by Thursday afternoon.

Google’s Sundar Pichai recently tweeted, “Cosmos aligned. We’ll be back at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View for this year’s #GoogleIO on May 12-14!”

Google Developer Conference 2020

Now that the dates are revealed, all that is left to know is the pricing and ticketing details. Google is most likely to go ahead with a raffle where the participants will need to fill out an application form mentioning the reason for coming and their area of technical interest. Since the participants will get about a week to submit the application, you can take your time. This should be released sometime next month.

Pixel 4a

Now that Google has revealed the dates of its upcoming I/O developer conference, rumours have started making the rounds on what the company is likely to launch here. The conference is expected to take place near Google’s HQ – the same place where the tech giant has been hosting the event for the past few years.

Last year’s big announcement at this time included the budget-friendly Pixel 3A and 3A XL. It was a great phone with a stunning camera. With the date confirmed, many believe that we will see the launch or at least get a glimpse into Pixel 4a. It is expected that the model will feature a 3.5mm headphone jack, a hole-punch display, and a square camera bump. Since Pixel 3a was released around the same time last year, fans believe that this is the perfect time for the 4a smartphone reveal. In addition to the 3a smartphone, Google also revealed its Nest Hub Max. We hope this year brings more Nest hardware as well.

February 9, 2020
Best Android Horror Games For A Good Scare! (2020 Update)

We all know someone who is dead scared of horror movies and games. At the same there, there are also those on the opposite end of the spectrum who just love a good horror game. Let’s take a look at this list of the ten best Android horror games out there. All the games on this list are free to install and play. However, most of them have some form of in-app purchases. None of them is mandatory. With a mysterious storyline, horrifying creators, and addictive gameplay, there is no way you can resist these games.

1. Into the Dead 2: Zombie Survival – Best Android Horror Games

Into the Dead 2: Zombie Survival is a game where, you guessed it, players have to kill the zombies. You will have the weapons you want at hand. To save your family, you will have to destroy all the zombies out there. While the game goes on easy terms, the horror factor is easily blended in. With a scary atmosphere, a fearful sound, you will need nerves of steel to go through the game. The game provides the players appropriate weapons to shoot the zombies. Enthusiastic players can play their way through seven chapters and more than 60 stages. As you get better at the game, you will be able to win special prizes and unlock more weapons.

Into the Dead 2 – Zombie Survival

2. Eyes- The Horror Game

Eyes: The Horror Game is a popular horror game for Android users. This horror fantasy game is among the most popular and most played horror games out there. It is a multiplayer game with ominous sound effects and realistic imagery. The gameplay involves the player playing the role of a hero. You have to move ahead while dodging evil spirits and ghosts. The game is home to plenty of nasty-looking ghosts, evil spirits, and monsters. It features a doomed atmosphere and attractive gameplay. You will also be able to play through plenty of levels and not get bored!

3. Slender Man Origins 3 Free. Abandoned School

Slender Man Origins 3 Free. Abandoned School is another free horror game. The game follows a mysterious story where you, as the player, will have to rescue the souls of children who are held hostage. They were lost from school. The main area of exploration will be the abandoned school as you move about and destroy the Slender Man. The game follows an excellent story, featuring stunning graphics. With interesting tactics and tons of unlocked operations, players can enjoy for hours.

Slender Man Origins 3 Free. Abandoned School

4. Slendrina: The Cellar

Slendrina: The Cellar is a super scary horror game that has different strategies. Here, Slendrina is an evil spirit that does not like anyone venturing into her area. You have to go there for your mission. Once you go, the game is all about how you escape Slendrina. Within her territory, you will have to find missing books, keys, and more. The horror sound effect, scary graphics, and a dark atmosphere have all the makings of a great horror game.

5. Man or Vampire – Best Android Horror Games

This game is based on a land where dead are being ruled by Vampires. Only the King of this land can control the phenomenon. Most players agree that this is one of the scariest games they have ever played. You will move through the different survival options to figure out which one will make you the king of the paradise. The game has a huge world waiting for you to explore, with stunning sound effects and fabulous graphics. There are also plenty of weapons that you can use to survive and kill the zombies. Besides the main mission, there are little tasks as well.

Man or Vampire – Android Horror GamesBest

6. Dead Target: Zombie Shooting Game

Dead Target: Zombie Shooting Game is set in 2040, at the scene of World War III. However, warfare here is not as we know it. With the enemies coming up with a virus that can turn deal men into evil zombies, you will have to save the world from these creatures. An addictive game, this covers a lot of smart tactics and 3D weapons, scary sound effects, and a terrifying atmosphere.

7. Evil Nun: Horror in the School

This game is based on a school and scarier than you think. Your job is to save the hero from the nun along with the hostage children. The twist here is that the nun can hear the slightest noise you make. Excellent graphics, realistic sound effects, and more make this a lovely game to play. While it may be hard to excel in this game, it is quite easy to get started.

Evil Nun – Horror in the School

8. Horror Hospital 2 – Android Horror Games

Where the above option was based on school, this game is set out in a hospital. The player in the game will have to escape paranormal spirits and even death and you try to make it out of this haunted hospital. As you progress further into the game, you will come across the story of a possessed young girl who is near death’s door. The game has two different stories so that you don’t get bored. With tons of unlocking options, you can enjoy yourself.

9. Zombie Frontier 3: Sniper FPS

Zombie Frontier 3: Sniper FPS happens in a world where a popular vaccine turns mutate humans into zombies. Now, the world is full of these elements. You, as the hero in the game, will have to save the world by getting rid of them. A detailed design of zombies and an apocalypse world, there are more than 120 levels to play. If you like playing with weapons, you will enjoy this game. There are over 30 types of weapons here!

Zombie Frontier 3 – Sniper FPS

10. Zombie Hunter: Post Apocalypse Survival Game

This game is a zombie-killing game. This survival game revolves around the player killing the zombie gangs to make it a safer place. The mysterious sounds are perfect for a terrifying atmosphere. The game has 12 different types of weapons with an amazing background.

February 8, 2020
Diesel Axial Review

With Diesel Axial, the company ventures into the smartwatch world for the second time. The first attempt by the company was with their Diesel On Full Guard. The Diesel On Axial tries to keep up with the brand’s eye-catching design while also ensuring that the watch is chock-full of high-end features. To put it simply, you can think of it’s as a rebranded Fossil smartwatch. More specifically, a rebranded Fossil Gen 5. While it is a bit pricier than we have come to expect, you are getting your money’s worth in terms of features, looks, and functionality.

Design and Display

The smartwatch has been designed to be quite big and masculine. With a sharp 1.28-inch 416 x 416 screen, it is not subtle or small in any way. With a porthole-style watch face, there are a series of rivets across the edge, giving it an elegant look. While most smartwatches are designed to be neutral, meaning it suits people of every gender, this watch is designed to be a stereotypically masculine piece. Every single aspect of the product is rugged and macho with textured buttons and sophisticated designs.

Diesel Axial Review

These stand out from the watches of our days and time, almost finding some hint of similarity to old-fashioned stopwatch. Regardless of this, you will find the Diesel On Axial smartwatch to be among the most popular and fashionable device out there. Since the watch bezel is huge, it will suit only those with at least a medium-sized wrist. On the slimmer men, the watch could feel out of place and feel spectacularly oversized. The 24 mm strap established the case further. However, while it is big and masculine, the company has at least made sure it is comfortable as well. While it is a bit oversized, we can agree that it is a commonly noted feature of Fossil watches.

This model features a 1.28-inch AMOLED display with 416 x 416 resolution. This is brilliant and helps offer the smartwatch users an even better experience. While the display specs are nearly the same as Fossil Gen 5, you will notice that they are undoubtedly better than other options. Unfortunately, there is no noticeable Diesel logo if you were hoping to show off your new smartwatch. However, for your personal joy, you will find one at the back.

Specs and Features

The Diesel On Axial smartwatch is powered by a Snapdragon Wear 3100 chipset. The product comes with 1 GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. Other sensors and features offered by the smartwatch include NFC, a heart rate monitor, GPS, and a speaker. It essentially uses the same hardware as the Fossil Gen 5, meaning the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 chipset, 8GB of storage, and 1GB of RAM are all something we have seen on Fossil’s latest piece as well.

Diesel Axial

Once you purchase the smartwatch and are trying to set it up, there could likely be some small issues. After you set it up though, it is smooth sailing all the way. Sometimes, you may experience slowdown issues, but that is only if you choose to use for an extended period of time. In comparison with other popular smartwatches in the market, we find that it is superior to older chipsets featuring lower RAMs. However, if you want speed, this is the way to go.

Users can make use of the built-in speaker here as well. This will allow you to take calls from your watch as long as your phone is tethered to it. The Diesel Axial also has a Google Pay support and 3 ATM waterproofing. While these features are more or less available on most smartwatches out there, they should not be taken for granted. Fashion smartwatches are almost a different sector and usually focus more on aesthetic appeal than functionality. However, Diesel has managed to find just the right balance.

Fitness

The Diesel On Axial tolerates pretty much the same issues that Fossil Gen 5 smartwatches did recently. The GPS is fussy and doesn’t want the phone too far away. It could be maddening at times if you want to jog or workout without your phone on your or in the vicinity. On the brighter side, if you keep your smartwatch tethered to your phone, the details would be more accurate. Regarding the heart rate monitor, we are pleased to tell you that it is quite accurate. However, it might be a good idea to have a separate strap for working out.

Diesel Axial Display

In addition to these fitness factors, the smartwatch has a couple of apps that can help out. The Steps Goal app allows you to check how much you have walked while the Diesel T-ON-I app is a slightly twisted motivational tool. You might receive insults from time to time, but it is only to motivate you further. These small things are what makes it stand out. Animated tunnel effect and the likes on watch faces are again something different and continue to turn heads.

Battery Life

The Diesel On Axial offers customizable battery saving options. If you use it on battery saving modes, you will be able to enjoy about one to one and a half days without having to charge it again. With the chipset that this smartwatch runs on, you can easily modify the battery life to offer splendid outputs. Users would be able to save battery life while making the apps that they use the most more efficient. While it is not the most perfect solution out there, it is nonetheless better than nothing. If you don’t use the battery modes, you will likely need to charge the device every night.

Verdict: Diesel Axial

The Diesel On Axial smartwatch is a great choice if you are looking out to try a different-looking one. It is tough, masculine, and designed to turn heads. However, it will only suit those having a large wrist. The GPS is cranky if the phone gets left behind. But, on a brighter note, the product is sturdy, stylish, and comes with high-end features.

February 8, 2020
5G Smartphone To Be Announced Globally By Realme At MWC

Last year itself, 5G was said to have already become a strong reality. However, not a lot of 5G devices made the rounds. The 5G tech was still blossoming, which meant that most of the first releases were high-end models that most of us could not afford. Since the first-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon X50 modem was not released until December, the modem and carrier support were not very mature either. With the latest Snapdragon X55 modem launched in December 2020 seems to be the year of 5G smartphone. In developed markets, many companies are working to release their 5G products.

MWC 2020

A vast majority of the 5G smartphones is likely to be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 and the Snapdragon 765/G. They were released just last month. One of the first 5G smartphones to be launched in 2020 by Realme. The company has released the Realme X50 5G in China. Following the release, Realme plans to have a global release on February 24, 2020, at MWC 2020.

Realme’s event description states, “Realme will host the first global launch event in 2020. In the 5G era, Realme will be dedicated to being the popularizer of cutting-edge technology, promoting the popularity of 5G networks worldwide and bringing new 5G phones with power and style to global users.” We hope this means that they are planning to launch at least one 5G-enabled device during the event.

Realme X50 5G

If the Realme X50 5G does go on for a global release, it could possibly be one of the most affordable 5G models in the market. The phone is designed targeting a mid-range market featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G SoC, 6.57-inch FHD+ IPS LCD with 120Hz refresh rate, 6GB/8GB/12GB of RAM with 128GB/256GB storage, 64MP Samsung ISOCELL GW1 primary camera, and a 4,200mAh battery. The camera unit also includes an 8MP ultra-wide-angle camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, a 2MP macro camera, 16MP + 8MP – regular and wide-angle – punch-hole front cameras.

Realme 5G Smartphone

On the first glance, the specs of this phone seem pretty similar to Redmi K30 5G. This model has only been released in China as of now. We will know more at MWC 2020. Although the products that the different companies are planning to launch has not yet been revealed, we are sure that the focus is going to be on 5G tech and 5G-based devices.

5G in 2020

With 5G tech taking off in 2020, Realme plans to be at the front. The company is planning to release its first 5G smartphone at the MWC 2020 scheduled next month. It will also be among the first 5G devices to be released this year. It looks as if Realme X50 5G could be launched in India soon. Besides this model, Realme could also be releasing more smartphones. However, it is not very likely that they will be 5G-enabled models. Maybe following the global released of the X50 5G, we can expect more 5G devices from the Chinese manufacturer.

February 8, 2020
The Complete Guide to Anonymous Apps

Where once, online social platforms were all about protecting your true identity, with the likes of Facebook, it became all about letting others know exactly how you are spending every minute of your day. As the online world seems to be going to an even more of a tangent of having us put up all our details, the anonymous apps and platforms have come back with a force. It is highly surprising how popular these apps seem to be.

#1 Yik Yak

Yik Yak is basically a local bulletin for your neighbourhood. All the posts from those around you will be shown. Most of the users here are teenagers who want to talk, well, like teenagers. Individuals are bashed without their names mentioned. In most cases, only the initials are mentioned and the one posting it is completely anonymous.

Yik Yak – Anonymous Apps

#2 Matter

Matter is an app that allows you to connect to other users. The best part is that the interaction is completely anonymous and the app is bright and cheerful, instead of being dark and shady. This anonymous sharing app is a great way for literate adults to meet and share stuff. Users can post stuff on different topics and others can rate it using the different icon available, such as value, relate, and support. You can also join communities like Veterans, LGBTQ, and Parenthood.

#3 Whisper

Whisper is another anonymous app that you can confidently use. It is a great place to express yourself. You will meet likeminded people here and can delve into deep conversations with them. Whisper has become so popular in the two years it has launched that the app has managed to raise about $60 million in funding. The app enjoys billions of page views every month. It is extremely popular among college and high school students who use it as a platform to share confessions.

Whisper

#4 Gossup

This unfiltered social media app basically works as a combination of Yik Yak, Foursquare, Instagram, and Reddit! Users can post anonymous photos and follow other posts/photos. With more upvotes, the messages posted earn more sway. While little known as of now, it has the potential to become one of the more popular anonymous apps.

#5 Shrtwv

According to the app store, Shrtwv is described as, “Anonymously share moments in time with the world around you one wave at a time. See what others have left behind and leave your mark by adding stickers and liking waves.” Users’ anonymous messages or posts are called waves. These are visible only for a few seconds after it appears. You have to be on the spot to be able to catch the posts. Other users can comment by dragging a sticker on to the wave or post. However, you will need quick reflexes to do that before it vanishes forever!

#6 Truth

Truth is a messaging app where you can anonymously message your friends. When you install Truth, it will get access to your contact list. You can choose which friend you want to send a message to and the app will replace your name with an owl’s. For instance, your name would be shown as “Chillin’ Owl,” Cheery Owl,” “Smarty Owl,” and so on. The friend will naturally know that it is someone from their contacts but will not be able to figure it out. It is usually used by school and college students to see if their crush likes them back.

Truth – Anonymous Apps

#7 ButterflyEffect

The app store describes Butterfly Effect as, “ButterflyEffect is an anonymous community designed to allow users to share secrets, express gratitude and get inspiration. It is based on the premise that single action, no matter how small, affects others in the world forever.” It works in a similar fashion to Whisper where users can post anonymously. However, where it differs is that it is based on ‘give gratitude’ and ‘get inspiration’ themes. The former option will allow you to send thank-you notes to your friends while the latter will get you an assortment of inspirational quotes from the likes of Thomas Edison and Audrey Hepburn. There is also a personal photo journal where you can add your photos or posts and maintain it.

#8 Babbly

Babbly allows its users to share their thoughts with their friends – anonymously. The app developers mention that it is a great way to express your thoughts and connect to the world. You will also be able to know what the people around you are thinking. You would be able to join groups or even create personalized ones if you want to share with a specific group of people. Since it doesn’t have any reviews on the app store, it looks like we will have to wait to see how it turns out.

#9 Viper

Viper is an anonymous located-based app. Users can post their thoughts related to where they currently are. This could be at your home, your college or school, a restaurant, a game, or anywhere. When the user moves away from the area, the post disappears as well. It is a unique idea and is likely to be a hit once it catches on. As of now, most of the time, all you will see is a blank area and a map with no one sharing anything.

WUT

#10 Backchat

According to the app store, “Backchat is a communication tool designed for those of us who can’t wait to find exciting and original ways to chat with our friends and have a good time.” The stunning part about this app is that it was developed by a 14-year-old. Only users who are connected via Google Plus or Facebook would be able to send messages to each other. However, these messages would be anonymous. If you want a clue to your sender’s identity, you can buy the clues for $0.99 each. This is not a great idea if you are looking for a true anonymous app since your identity could be revealed for less than a dollar!

# Bonus – WUT

WUT is a social app. You can send a message on WUT which is received by all your Facebook friends using the app. While they will know it is someone from their friends list, they might not be able to figure out exactly who it is. Once the message is seen on the receiver’s lock screen, it disappears.

February 8, 2020
Record Netflix Movies: How to Watch and Download Content For Streaming Offline

Netflix is truly a boon. With hundreds of shows and movies to choose from in addition to Netflix’s original series and movies, there is no way we are going to be stuck for something to watch. However, one annoying thing here is how Netflix removes its titles once in a while and randomly adds other titles later on. Even if you have been crafty enough to have downloaded the title, you find that has disappeared as well! The only solution here is to record Netflix movies so that you can watch it offline later.

Streaming Services

One way of doing this would be to use PlayOn. It is an app that allows users to download and watch Netflix videos offline. This means you will be able to watch movies without needing Wi-Fi. The best part about it is that you can even watch them after Netflix removes it. PlayOn downloads will never expire which means you can comfortably continue watching them whenever you wish. You will be able to view the content on your smartphone, TV, laptop, and more.

PlayOn App

This app is available for both Android and iOS users. The app basically allows users to record and download content from streaming platforms, such as Netflix. The download can be initiated regardless of your location. As soon as it is complete, the content will be stored in a complimentary cloud “locker” for a brief period of time. From there, you can simply download the titles to your device.

To get started, all you need to do is to download and install the app. You can do this by simply making your way to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once done, you can browse the shows or movies that you want to record. Once it is recorded, you can visit your cloud storage and download the videos from there. The app is completely free to install. However, for recording, users will have to pay a small fee for every recording.

Download Netflix Movies

Record Netflix Movies on Desktop

You don’t have to work with multiple applications or software. PlayOn is here to help you record and download stuff from a streaming platform to your desktop. While this guide focuses on Netflix, the app can record content from any streaming platform, such as Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more. When you select a title for recording, the video is saved as .mp4 files to the hard drive on your computer. Once done, you can stream the same to your TV and watch it. You can cast it the usual way by using a gaming console or a streaming device.

You will never have to fear about missing out on your favourite shows and movies. It will all be available to you even if it leaves Netflix. The app has an easy browsing interface, making it simpler for users to navigate and use. The recording happens in the background so you will be able to continue with your work without getting disturbed.

February 8, 2020
YouTube TV For PlayStation 4 Is Available Right Now

Now, YouTube TV is now available on PlayStation 4. This is one of the first instances where a third-party live TV subscription service is being launched on Sony’s game console. After the release of its own PlayStation Vue service, the company has kept its rivals off PlayStation 4. This includes the likes of YouTube TV, Sling TV, and Hulu’s live TV. Since PlayStation Vue is coming to an end this month, Sony is planning to introduce other services on its platform. According to a statement by Sony, “Unfortunately, the highly competitive pay TV industry, with expensive content and network deals, has been slower to change than we expected. Because of this, we have decided to remain focused on our core gaming business.”

YouTube TV For PlayStation 4

The company didn’t give the users any time to get used to the news. Over the weekend, Sony announced that the app would be now available in PS4 soon. A couple of days later, the app launched and was made available to all PS4 users. With PS Vue getting ready for its shut down, the app comes at the right time. While YouTube TV cannot compete with the likes of Netflix and Hulu, at least not at the moment, it is gaining numbers rapidly.

YouTube TV on PS4

If you have a PS4, all you need to do in order to use the app is to visit the PlayStation Store. Now, download the app from there. New customers can enjoy a free trial period, post which the service would cost them about $50 every month. If you have already used YouTube TV on other devices, you will find that the interface and experience of the app are pretty much the same. Many believe that Sling TV and other streaming TV apps will soon be featured on Sony PS4 as well.

YouTube TV

It is an excellent way of enjoying cable TV without having to experience all the inconveniences that come with it. PS4 is now picking up compatibility with Google’s service, ensuring that those who have PlayStation 4 will now be able to stream YouTube TV and get their cable content. However, this comes after Xbox One received the same access nearly two years ago.

YouTube TV App

You may know that Google has already launched its free YouTube TV app on the PlayStation Store. Now, you can easily download and install the app on your PlayStation 4. There is no denying that the app is a bit heavy at 142 MB. Again, although the app is free, you will have to pay a subscription fee for the app in order to be able to make use of it. With the app, users will be able to enjoy full access. You will even be able to view your cloud DVR recordings. You will be using the controller as the input device. This might take time to get used to, but it is still better than having to switch to Roku or Chromecast. While the action may not have been speedy, it is nonetheless here now. PlayStation 4 owners can now enjoy YouTube TV from their consoles.

February 8, 2020