A Teenager Tricked Twitter Into Verifying a Fake US Congressional Candidate

In a bizarre incident, a 17-year-old high school student got his Twitter account verified as a fake Republican candidate for 2020 US Presidential election.

from NDTV Gadgets - Latest https://ift.tt/2wdY4h9

The 10 best pillows in 2020 - CNET

Whether you sleep on your side or back, or prefer foam or down, there's a perfect pillow out there for you.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2rSiBpO

Xiaomi's Mi 10 Pro 5G: Release date, specs, price, features and a 108-megapixel camera - CNET

Xiaomi's 5G promise in 2020 starts with the Mi 10 series. Starting at approximately $570, you get a Snapdragon 865 chipset, 90Hz refresh rate, and a 108-megapixel main camera.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2wecAFO

Apple Closely Watching Coronavirus Outbreak in South Korea, Italy, CEO Tim Cook Says

Apple is closely watching how the coronavirus outbreak is unfolding in South Korea and Italy, where the company has suppliers, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said in an interview.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/39lmBzL

Apple Closely Watching Coronavirus Outbreak in South Korea, Italy, CEO Tim Cook Says

Apple is closely watching how the coronavirus outbreak is unfolding in South Korea and Italy, where the company has suppliers, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said in an interview.

from RSS Feeds : RSS NEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/39lmBzL

Boeing Blames Incomplete Testing for Astronaut Capsule Woes

Boeing acknowledged Friday it failed to conduct full and adequate software tests before the botched space debut of its astronaut capsule late last year.

from RSS Feeds : RSS NEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2PySOeU

Boeing Blames Incomplete Testing for Astronaut Capsule Woes

Boeing acknowledged Friday it failed to conduct full and adequate software tests before the botched space debut of its astronaut capsule late last year.

from NDTV Gadgets - Latest https://ift.tt/2PySOeU

Apple Closely Watching Coronavirus Outbreak in South Korea, Italy: CEO

Apple is closely watching how the coronavirus outbreak is unfolding in South Korea and Italy, where the company has suppliers, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said in an interview.

from NDTV Gadgets - Latest https://ift.tt/39lmBzL

Allegations of misconduct inside the Chan-Zuckerberg family office, including assault, sexual harassment, racism, and more (Business Insider)

Business Insider:
Allegations of misconduct inside the Chan-Zuckerberg family office, including assault, sexual harassment, racism, and more  —  Presidencia de la República Mexicana; Anthony Quintano; Kauai Police Department; Samantha Lee/Business Insider  — Over the past three years …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2T9VG4b

The best 3D printers in 2020 for beginners and budget creators - CNET

From Flashforge to Monoprice, these printers will get you started making all kinds of cool stuff.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2PzCJpr

In warehouses, call centers, and elsewhere intelligent machines are managing humans, and they're making work more stressful, grueling, and dangerous (Josh Dzieza/The Verge)

Josh Dzieza / The Verge:
In warehouses, call centers, and elsewhere intelligent machines are managing humans, and they're making work more stressful, grueling, and dangerous  —  In warehouses, call centers, and other sectors, intelligent machines are managing humans, and they're making work more stressful, grueling, and dangerous

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2wUPB2J

Activist investor seeks to replace Jack Dorsey as Twitter CEO, report says - CNET

Billionaire Paul Singer, founder of Elliott Management, wants to take over.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/3ahgnAC

Could deepfakes be used to train office workers?

A consultancy that makes business training videos is advertising for a "deepfake expert".

from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/3acMuBv

Sources: Elliott Management has taken a "sizable" stake in Twitter, nominated four directors to Twitter's board, and seeks to replace CEO Jack Dorsey (Bloomberg)

Bloomberg:
Sources: Elliott Management has taken a “sizable” stake in Twitter, nominated four directors to Twitter's board, and seeks to replace CEO Jack Dorsey  —  - Elliott has nominated four directors for Twitter's board  — Hedge fund has had ‘constructive discussions’ with company

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/3aqdKwP

Facebook says its 3D Photos feature, which retroactively converts 2D photos to 3D using neural nets, now works on photos taken with single-lens cameras (DL Cade/PetaPixel)

DL Cade / PetaPixel:
Facebook says its 3D Photos feature, which retroactively converts 2D photos to 3D using neural nets, now works on photos taken with single-lens cameras  —  Facebook just expanded 3D photo posting to phones that don't actually capture depth data.  Using the magic of machine learning …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2I43IFj

Best tax software for 2020: TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxSlayer and more - CNET

Get your taxes done faster -- and at the best price -- with these online DIY tax options.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2Nm6LvH

See Marvel head Kevin Feige play a Thanos-like villain on The Simpsons - CNET

Avengers: Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo also show up to try to stop Bart from spoiling their movie.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/385hUIE

Accolade, provider of a health care platform for employees to manage benefits, files to raise up to $100M in IPO; PitchBook: Accolade is valued around $620M (Todd Bishop/GeekWire)

Todd Bishop / GeekWire:
Accolade, provider of a health care platform for employees to manage benefits, files to raise up to $100M in IPO; PitchBook: Accolade is valued around $620M  —  Accolade, the Seattle-based health benefits platform led by former Concur president Raj Singh, filed Friday to raise as much as $100 million in an initial public offering.

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2TnAyWR

Organizers announce that this year's Game Developers Conference has been postponed from March to summer amid COVID-19 concerns (Polygon)

Polygon:
Organizers announce that this year's Game Developers Conference has been postponed from March to summer amid COVID-19 concerns  —  Sony, EA, Activision Blizzard, Unity, and Epic Games have all withdrawn due to COVID-19 concerns  —  This year's Game Developers Conference has been postponed …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2vopAZa

The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez on Netflix will stay with me a long time - CNET

Commentary: This harrowing documentary is unsettling to watch, but will leave you with plenty to think about.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2I7shRD

Save $231 on Bowers & Wilkins PX wireless noise-canceling headphones - CNET

They're refurbished, but now's your chance to save 57% on headphones that rank among the best noise-canceling cans money can buy.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/39aoXRQ

Apple blocks Clearview AI facial recognition on iPhones after developer violation - CNET

It's a new challenge for the controversial facial recognition startup.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/3cl6Eev

Developers say Mac Catalyst is great for providing mouse and window support for iPad apps and transporting simpler apps but struggles with complicated ones (Alex Blake/Digital Trends)

Alex Blake / Digital Trends:
Developers say Mac Catalyst is great for providing mouse and window support for iPad apps and transporting simpler apps but struggles with complicated ones  —  Apple's Mac Catalyst project seems harmless enough.  It provides a simple way for iOS developers to bring their apps to the Mac …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/3cb6Rkq

'Plague Inc' Game Removed From Apple’s China App Store Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

Strategy simulation game "Plague Inc.", which surged in popularity in China when the coronavirus epidemic first started, has been removed from the China app store after regulators said it contained illegal content, its developer said on Thursday.

from RSS Feeds : RSS NEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2I2Z4aC

Facebook Cancels F8 Developer Conference Due to Coronavirus

Facebook said on Thursday it would cancel its annual developer conference due to fears over the coronavirus, as growing concerns about the economic impact of the global outbreak drove Wall Street to tumble for a sixth straight day.

from RSS Feeds : RSS NEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2w8NSGS

AEW Revolution: How to watch, start time, match card, B/R Live and Fite TV - CNET

Chris Jericho vs. Jon Moxley headlines the show.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2T6VEKr

Galaxy Z Flip vs. Motorola Razr: How Samsung's foldable phone compares to the Moto - CNET

We compare the specs, and tell you what it's like to use each clamshell phone with a foldable screen.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/3ckSz0X

Senate passes bill banning government purchases of Huawei gear - CNET

Bill targets companies deemed to pose a threat to US national security.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/32wR7ns

Sony Announces Its 2020 Xperia Smartphone Lineup

Sony has officially announced the latest range of Xperia smartphones for 2020. The company, best known for its range of photography-friendly devices, launched three phones, each with its own unique feature set. So, you’ll find something here for every budget and requirement.

Sony Xperia 1 II

The Sony Xperia 1 II is the company’s newest flagship device, with specifications and pricing to match. At first glance, the name is unusual, as it appears to read the Xperia one two. However, marketing materials show that Sony opted for a similar naming strategy as with their cameras, so this is actually the Xperia 1 Mark II.

As with previous flagships, the main focus here is on the camera and photography setup. The Xperia 1 II comes with the, now familiar, triple-lens rear camera with ZEISS optics. This is made up of a 12MP primary sensor, 12MP telephoto lens, and 12MP ultra-wide sensor.

There are features like Real-time Eye AF for tracking people and animals using auto-focus. The front stereo speakers are tuned by Sony Pictures and were built around Dolby Atmos technology. The phone is also among the first to sport 5G compatibility.

Rounding things off, the Xperia 1 II comes with a 4,000mAh battery with Qi fast wireless charging. The company also boasts that the on-board AI-powered Battery Care technology will improve the battery’s lifespan.

Sony Xperia 10 II

The Xperia 10 II is an upgrade to last year’s Xperia 10. The mid-range phone is designed with entertainment in mind. To that end, there is a 21:9 Wide six-inch OLED display, protected by Gorilla Glass 6.

The display is optimized for immersive viewing by the TRILUMINOS tech, usually found in Sony’s Bravia TVs. The 21:9 screen gives mobile games a more immersive experience, as well. You can also multi-task, thanks to Sony’s implementation of multi-window applications.

The 10 II is lighter than its predecessor, too, weighing just 151g. Despite this, the phone is IP65 and IP68-rated for water and dust resistance.

The Xperia 10 II also features a tripe-lens rear camera setup, with a 12MP primary sensor and two 8MP lenses. Like the Xperia 1 II, this phone comes with the AI-powered Battery Care feature to take care of the 3,600mAh battery.

Sony Xperia L4

To round things off, Sony also announced its entry-level device, the Xperia L4. The phone has the same 21:9 aspect display as the Xperia 10 II but is slightly larger at 6.2 inches.

The L series is the company’s entry-level range, and the L4 marks the first time you’ll find a triple-lens rear camera here. There’s a 13MP primary sensor, a 5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth camera.

The battery is smaller, too, measuring 3,580mAh, but it does support fast charging. You’ll also have access to Sony’s multi-window UI. At launch, the Xperia L4 will be available a choice of either black or blue.

The Smartphones of The Future

Although there is no official release date for the new Xperia devices, Sony has noted they’ll be available in Spring 2020.

Ordinarily, smartphone launches at this time of year are handled at Mobile World Congress (MWC). However, fears over Covid-19 (otherwise known as coronavirus) meant that MWC 2020 was canceled. This has led to many manufacturers going it alone and sharing their latest devices without attendance at an international event.

This was the case with Samsung earlier in the month. The smartphone giant unveiled its latest Galaxy S20 devices. If you’re after an alternative to Sony’s latest flagships, then be sure to check out everything you need to know about the Samsung Galaxy S20 series.

Read the full article: Sony Announces Its 2020 Xperia Smartphone Lineup

from MakeUseOf https://ift.tt/384UxPt

How Do Emulators Work? The Difference Between Emulator and Simulator

Emulation software allows you to use a different operating system to your host. For instance, you could run a Windows 7 emulator on your Windows 10 machine. You can still use Windows 10, but you can also dip into Windows 7 as you want.

Many people use emulators every day, to test software, try out a new operating system, or run an old video game console.

But have you ever wondered how emulators work? Or why your emulators are slow or experience lag? Read on and you’ll find out how amazing emulation really is.

Emulation Hardware Makes a Difference

Let’s think about what affects emulation performance using a real-world example.

PlayStation games don’t work on your Windows system because those games are not designed to run on a normal computer. PlayStation devices are very specific in their physical makeup, containing unique hardware that Windows—or any other computer operating system—doesn’t know how to use.

That’s why you need an emulator. Emulation software aims to run a program designed for one kind of system on another system. The programs that make this happen are known as emulators. While the details and inner workings vary between emulators, in the end, they attempt to achieve the same outcome: to make software run on different hardware.

How Do Emulators Work?

Emulators work hard to get a foreign program running. In short, an emulator is a piece of software that “acts” like a piece of hardware. In most cases, this means simulating all of the capabilities of a hardware component as a software component. Not only that, the hardware components that are emulated as software must perform without bugs, or else the emulator won’t work properly.

The difficulty in turning advanced and unique pieces of hardware into functioning software is why emulators for modern gaming consoles take a long time to develop. It takes a lot of hard work and effort to get the emulation process working, because modern hardware, like a PlayStation 4 or an Xbox One, is exceedingly complex.

Going back to the PlayStation example, an emulator must mimic a special sound chip, graphics card, central processing unit, and so on, without even considering the emulation of peripheral components like CD drivers.

So, what’s the hardest component to emulate?

Central Processing Unit

The most difficult piece of hardware to emulate is usually the central processing unit (CPU). The CPU is a core component of every computer, from smartphones to video game consoles. In many ways, the CPU is the most important computer component regarding emulation, as every other component links to it directly.

Not all CPUs are the same. The main way CPUs differ from each other is in their instruction sets. A CPU instruction set determines how a computer carries out the commands a program gives it. An emulator will target a system that has a different instruction set from the host machine. For example, the PlayStation’s CPU uses an instruction set known as MIPS, which is different from desktop or laptop that uses x86.

Why Are Emulators So Slow?

The difference between instruction sets is one of the reasons why emulators sometimes underperform. Every CPU instruction the emulator receives must translate from one instruction set to another. Furthermore, this instruction set translation takes place on the fly.

In the example above, the PlayStation emulator CPU receives a MIPS instruction, translates it into x86, then runs on your computer.

The translation of instruction sets forms the basis of how emulators simulate an entire device inside your computer. Another way to look at it is as a real-world translator rapidly relaying a conversation between two people who speak different languages. Even if the translation is very fast, you will always encounter some loss in speed. The more complex the languages, the slower the translations.

Virtualization vs. Emulation: What’s the Difference?

Virtualization is very similar to emulation, but there are important differences between them. In particular, virtualization usually refers to the use of virtual machines. Virtualization and emulation accomplish the same thing, but they go about it in slightly different ways.

Both are designed to run the software in an isolated environment. Virtualization focuses on the isolation while emulation focuses on the environment. What this means is that emulators simulate a larger range of hardware than virtual machines can.

You can’t run a PlayStation system in a virtual machine, for example. But you could run a PlayStation emulator in a virtual Windows environment.

However, because of this, virtualization is often faster than emulation. Rather than emulating a system, a virtual machine allocates processing power to an isolated subsystem. Importantly, this means the CPU is not emulated.

As such, the target audiences of the two differ somewhat. Emulators tend to be designed for video game consoles (or other systems that are completely different from regular computers) whereas virtual machines are more likely to be found running in businesses. This is because they provide a fast and secure environment in which to run programs.

However, this is mostly nit-picking. Practically speaking, virtualization and emulation are functionally the same in that both mainly exist to translate from one “instruction language” to another.

3 Ways You Can Use Emulation

There are a few ways you can take advantage of emulation. You might even be using it now without even knowing! Here are a few notable examples.

1. Run 32-Bit Programs on 64-Bit Windows

64-bit Windows is different to 32-bit Windows. The 64-bit version of Windows can use a special compatibility layer to run 32-bit programs. There is no need to emulate an entire system to get things working because 32-bit programs are similar in design already. Because of this, the process is extremely fast.

2. Emulate Every Console

The latest consoles are very difficult to emulate. Although the PlayStation 3 hit the markets in 2006, it is still difficult to emulate a large proportion of games for the console. The emulation situation for the Xbox 360 lags even further behind.

Still, emulators exist for heaps of older video game consoles, including many of the best consoles of the 90s. There is a bonus to running the old video game emulators on modern hardware. The old games receive a performance boost on modern hardware. Depending on the emulator, you can use HD or even 4K graphics, making use of the extra computing power to play games at far higher levels than their native resolution. Check out the video for a prime example, using the PCSX2 PlayStation 2 emulator to play Gran Turismo 4.

You can even run video game emulators on your Android device, letting you retro game on the go.

3. Test Out Different Operating Systems

Usually, if you want to try out a new operating system, you’ll need to install it on your hard drive. Emulation lets you run a separate operating system right on your current operating system using a virtual machine.

There are several reasons why you’d want to do this. You won’t have to worry if your installation misbehaves since it’s restrained to a virtual environment. It might also be your only option if you want to try out an operating system that is incompatible with your computer hardware. The Windows Sub-system for Linux is a good example.

Why Is Emulation So Hard?

You now understand more about why emulation is tricky. Emulating a video game console is a complex process—and this article only covers the basics. However, now you understand more about the process of emulation and the development of emulators, you’ll know exactly why it’s a little slow next time you use one.

If you want to start delving into your back catalog of video games, here’s how you play PS2 games on your PC. Alternatively, head back a little further in gaming history and learn how to play PS1 games on your PC, instead.

Read the full article: How Do Emulators Work? The Difference Between Emulator and Simulator

from MakeUseOf https://ift.tt/2wev09a

The 15 Best Two-Player Mobile Games to Play Anywhere

Are you bored in the office? Or perhaps you’re trying to pass the time while relaxing on vacation. Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, two-player mobile games are one of the best ways to while away your free time.

So, with that in mind, here are the best two-player mobile games that you can play on the same device, separate phones, or over the internet…

Two-Player Games to Play on the Same Device

1. Dots and Boxes

Genre: Strategy

Dots and Boxes turns a traditional childhood pen-and-paper game into a convenient way to kill time with your phone. With local multiplayer, two people can play the game using the same Android or iOS device.

This offline functionality makes it useful when you don’t have access to Wi-Fi. It’s a simple, yet competitive and addictive game.

Download: Dots and Boxes for Android | iOS (Free)

2. Crossy Road

Genre: Arcade

Crossy Road takes inspiration from the classic retro game Frogger, delivering the same frustrating and addictive gameplay with a fun block aesthetic. The two-player mode allows you to play on the same device using a split-screen format for input.

You can simultaneously compete with and sabotage your opponent. The game also works with Android TV, allowing you to play on a larger screen.

Download: Crossy Road for Android | iOS (Free)

3. Glow Hockey 2

Genre: Arcade

Another real-world classic turned into a fun mobile game is Glow Hockey 2, bringing air hockey to your phone. While a smartphone or tablet screen makes the physical scale of the game much smaller, the competitive stakes feel the same, making it a great game for two players.

The gameplay is simple, yet incredibly fun. Use your finger to guide your striker. Then try to get the puck into your opponent’s goal while simultaneously defending your own goal.

Download: Glow Hockey 2 for Android | iOS (Free)

4. Badland

Genre: Adventure/Sidescroller

If you’re looking for something a little different, Badland is a unique title with a great art-style that the critics have praised. The aim of the game is to guide your blob through obstacles until you reach the end of the stage.

The game has both co-operative and competitive multiplayer modes. You play on the same device, which is the best way to coordinate your characters in real-time.

Download: Badland for Android | iOS (Free)

5. Duel Otters

Genre: Compilation

Duel Otters is the perfect local multiplayer mobile game for some quick, competitive fun. It is packed with simple mini-games that rely on reflexes, timing, and coordination.

Dueling mini-games include pong-type batting games, matching games, speed-clicking matches, counting games, and an assortment of other fast and frenetic games.

Download: Duel Otters for Android | iOS (Free)

Two-Player Mobile Games That You Play Online

6. Bowmasters

Genre: Action/Fighting

Bowmasters combines ragdoll physics, a charming art style, and cartoon violence to create a game that is fiendishly fun. The aim is to eliminate your opponent by lobbing a weapon towards them. Calculating the trajectory of your weapon is half the fun. Meanwhile, the other half is landing the target and watching your friend’s dismay.

Before you can unlock the game’s PvP modes, you will need to complete the tutorial and a few matches. After that, two players can compete on the same device or online.

Download: Bowmasters for Android | iOS (Free)

7. Words With Friends 2

Genre: Word

After the success that was the Scrabble-inspired game Words With Friends, Zynga launched Words With Friends 2—an updated version. Two-player Android games that emulate classic board games are notoriously popular and this one is no different.

You can play online either with random opponents or friends. Another benefit of the game is that if you’re interrupted, you can continue your turn later.

Download: Words With Friends 2 for Android | iOS (Free)

8. Clash Royale

Genre: Card/Strategy

Clash Royale comes from the creators of Clash of Clans and is a mixture of a battle card and tower defense game. Opponents draw attackers and defenders from their deck of cards, with the aim of destroying the competitor’s towers before your own are destroyed.

You’ll need to finish the tutorial before you can play against a friend. Once you unlock this mode, you simply need to add your friend and start a match.

Download: Clash Royale for Android | iOS (Free)

9. Battlelands Royale

Genre: Battle Royale/Shooter

Battlelands Royale is a battle royale game similar to Fortnite and PUBG, but doesn’t require as much strategy or a high-end device. It’s great for short bouts of gaming with a friend, who you can team up with online through the game in its duos and squad modes.

Controls are simple and games are short, making it perfect as a quick time-waster for two players.

Download: Battlelands Royale for Android | iOS (Free)

10. QuizUp

Genre: Trivia

A great way to pass the time is by testing out your trivia knowledge. QuizUp raises the stakes by allowing you to directly compete with other people. Like real quizzes, the match happens in real-time rather than using a turn-based system. Your goal is to answer quickly and correctly, outscoring your opponent.

To invite a friend to a match, you will need to add their username to your friends list in the game.

Download: QuizUp for Android | iOS (Free)

11. Boggle With Friends

Genre: Word

Boggle is another traditional word game that Zynga has turned into a mobile success. In Boggle With Friends, the aim is to find as many words as possible from a randomly generated set of letters. However, you can only connect letters adjacent to each other (vertically, horizontally, or diagonally). You win if you reach a higher number of points than your opponent before the timer runs out.

While each round is timed, the timer only starts once you start your turn. This means that you can play the game whenever you have time to spare.

Download: Boggle With Friends for Android | iOS (Free)

Two-Player Games You Play Over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth

12. Sea Battle 2

Genre: Strategy

Sea Battle 2 is a Battleship-inspired game with an interesting pen-and-paper aesthetic. You can play with a friend on the same device, connecting via Bluetooth, sending a game invite, or joining online. Since secrecy is a major element of gameplay, it’s better not to play the game on the same screen—but the option is there.

Download: Sea Battle 2 on Android | iOS (Free)

13. Soul Knight

Genre: Dungeon/Roguelike

Soul Knight is an incredibly fun dungeon crawler, reminiscent of games like Enter the Gungeon. Considering the simple controls and repetitive cycle of the genre’s gameplay, roguelike games on mobile are the perfect package.

You can play with friends by connecting to the same Wi-Fi network. The game will automatically detect whether someone connected to your network is hosting a match.

Download: Soul Knight for Android | iOS (Free)

14. Terraria

Genre: Sandbox

While most of these games are designed for short bouts of gameplay, Terraria is a multiplayer mobile game that you can spend hours playing. It is a mobile port of the popular PC game and allows you to play with friends using local Wi-Fi or by connecting to a PC-hosted dedicated mobile server.

It’s an inexpensive way for two players to enjoy a mobile game together and offers an experience well worth the price tag.

Download: Terraria for Android | iOS ($4.99)

15. Tank Stars

Genre: Tactical

Tank Stars is a Worms-inspired tactical game that has a very similar graphical style to Bowmasters. The variety of tanks and weapons, combined with the precision element of aiming, makes the game a fulfilling way to challenge your friends.

You can play on the same device or by connecting over the same Wi-Fi network. However, both modes need to be unlocked by completing a few practice AI matches.

Download: Tank Stars for Android | iOS (Free)

More Mobile Games to Add to Your Collection

While mobile games were once seen as overly simplistic and repetitive, they’ve evolved to become a massive phenomenon.  You’ll still find idle clickers and match-three games, but there are also many amazing titles out there.

If you want to add some more awesome mobile games to your collection, make sure to check out our list of the best hidden-gem mobile games you should try.

Image Credit: Avemario/Depositphotos

Read the full article: The 15 Best Two-Player Mobile Games to Play Anywhere

from MakeUseOf https://ift.tt/2D4VJIm

How to Run Linux on Android Devices

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably used Linux before, and know that it works on almost any piece of hardware. Meanwhile, you’ve got a phone in your pocket, and you know it’s versatile. So can your Android phone run Linux?

Unlock the "Essential Linux Commands Cheat Sheet" now!

This will sign you up to our newsletter

Enter your Email

Read our privacy policy

Yes, it can. Here’s what you need to know about running Linux on your Android smartphone or tablet.

Wait, Isn’t Android Already Linux?

Well, it is… and it isn’t.

Android is built upon the Linux kernel, a software stack that interfaces with the hardware of a device. It basically enables an operating system to communicate with the device—whether that’s a PC, a smartphone, or other hardware.

The Linux operating system should really be referred to as GNU/Linux. But over time, the word “Linux” has come to interchangeably describe the kernel as well as the various operating systems. These include Arch Linux, Ubuntu, Gentoo, and many others.

So while Android uses the Linux kernel, it doesn’t offer a desktop environment. This is what most people are thinking about when considering ways to install Linux for Android.

Why Install Linux on Your Android Device?

So why might you want a Linux desktop environment installed on your Android phone or tablet?

You may wish to run an app that isn’t available on Android. But in most cases, you’ll simply want to gain access to some sort of desktop environment. Maybe you have a spare Android tablet you want to revitalize, and installing Linux on it is a good way to do this.

Current Android devices have ideal hardware for a PC-like experience, and installing Linux is a great way to enable this.

Of course, you may find that the tasks you want to perform in Linux also work in Android. The only hurdle holding you back might be simultaneous Android app multitasking. Fortunately, this is a feature that many modern Android devices support on the latest OS versions.

Running Linux running on an Android phone or tablet device isn’t easy. If you’re looking for improved multitasking, try upgrading to a recent version of Android instead.

Can My Phone or Tablet Run Linux?

To run Linux on Android, you have several choices. Which you should use is determined by whether your Android device is rooted or not.

In almost all cases, your phone, tablet, or even Android TV box can run a Linux desktop environment. You can also install a Linux command line tool on Android. It doesn’t matter if your phone is rooted (unlocked, the Android equivalent of jailbreaking) or not.

The following options to install Linux on your Android tablet or phone are available:

• To install Linux on Android without root:
  • Debian Noroot
  • UserLAnd
  • AndroNix
• For installing Linux on a rooted Android device:
  • Use Linux Deploy
  • Install Kali Linux for penetration testing

Several other methods will give you a Linux, or desktop-like experience, on Android. We’ll look at those, too.

Install Linux on Android Without Root

First, we’ll take a look at three ways to install Linux on your Android phone or tablet without rooting the device.

How to Run Linux on Android With Debian Noroot

The best way to get Linux running on your phone with minimum fuss is with Debian Noroot. You need Android 4.1 or later to run this.

The benefit of Debian Noroot is that it will install Debian Buster on your phone with a compatibility layer. This allows you to run Debian apps without having to root Android. Given how difficult rooting can be for some devices, this is useful.

Performance with Debian Noroot is not great, but it’s usable. For the best results installing Linux for Android, consider rooting your device first.

Download: Debian Noroot (Free)

Get Linux on Android With UserLAnd

An alternative to Debian Noroot, UserLAnd is an Android app from the Play Store that offers a choice of distros. In addition to Alpine, Arch, Debian, Kali, and Ubuntu, this tool lets you install apps.

You can install tools like GIMP, Firefox, and LibreOffice before you install Linux on Android. Simply run the app, agree to the permissions, and select a distro to install. There’s a choice of viewing the installed Linux version over SSH (command line) or using a VNC app (for desktop).

It’s surprisingly simple to set up and use. Thus, if you’re looking for a solution for running Linux on Android, try this.

Download: UserLAnd (Free)

AndroNix Installs Linux on Android

Shipping with eight distros, this useful tool also offers modded versions of some Linux operating systems for improved performance. The standard eight distributions are:

1. Ubuntu
2. Kali
3. Debian
4. Arch
5. Parrot OS
6. Fedora
7. Manjaro
8. Alpine

Of these, Ubuntu, Debian, Ubuntu, and Manjaro have modded versions available for Android devices with ARMv8 chipsets and later.

To install a Linux operating system on Android with AndroNix, simple tap the distro you want, then hit Install. You’ll need to follow the steps to copy a command into a Termux terminal window, as well as choose a desktop environment.

The video above outlines the process in more detail. Just be sure to have Termux and a VNC viewing app (like VNC Viewer) installed. You’ll need VNC to use your chosen Linux desktop.

AndroNix is free, but features a premium upgrade which removes ads and introduces additional (non-vital) features. This includes support for offline downloading of operating systems.

Download: AndroNix (Free, in-app purchases available)

3 More Ways to Run Linux on Android Without Root

While we’ve covered a few good options to run Linux on your Android device, other methods are available:

1. DeX: If you own a modern Samsung device, you have the option of switching your hardware to desktop mode with DeX. While not exactly a Linux operating system, this is a desktop environment with a Linux kernel.
2. Remote Desktop to a system running Linux, using the app Splashtop.
3. Termux: This self-contained Linux environment based on the command line lets you run Linux apps on Android. Thus, it’s literally Linux on Android!

Root Android and Install Linux

For rooted users, or anyone happy to take the time to root their Android device, installing Linux is simpler and faster.

How to Install Linux on a Rooted Android Device

If you have a rooted device, you can install various versions of Linux on Android using the Linux Deploy tool. This is best done by first connecting your phone to a Wi-Fi network.

Start off by installing BusyBox, which provides some enhanced root capabilities. Next, install Linux Deploy. On first run, tap Start to ensure the root permissions are enabled, then tap Settings in the bottom-right corner.

Use the displayed options menu to select your preferred Distribution. Debian, Ubuntu, Gentoo, Fedora, and many more are available to install. We used Arch Linux.

You’ll need to check the Enable box under GUI to view a Linux desktop on your phone. Also ensure that VNC is selected for the Graphics subsystem. Next, check the screen resolution under GUI settings, and make sure you’re happy with the Desktop environment.

Finally, find the User name and User password entries. Either make a note of them or change them to something more memorable for you.

Back out of this menu, then tap the three dots in the upper-right corner and select Install, then OK.

When this is done, install VNC Viewer from the Play Store. In Linux Deploy, tap Start to run Linux. Then open VNC Viewer and connect to localhost:5900 to view your Linux desktop with the credentials you entered earlier.

Once up and running, you can install Linux software using the terminal in the usual manner.

Congratulations: you now have Linux running on Android!

How to Install Kali Linux on Android (Root Required)

The Linux Deploy method above for running Linux distros on Android is probably the best one you’ll find. It provides a good choice of Linux versions, including Kali Linux.

Want to use your Android phone or tablet as a penetration testing device? While you’ll find various useful Android networking tools, the best option is a portable version of Kali Linux. Simply follow the instructions above using Linux Deploy, and select Kali Linux to install on Android.

Once installed, you’ll have a portable pen-testing solution in your pocket. This will check the safety of any network your phone connects to.

Alternative, Install a Custom Android ROM

Not sure installing Linux on Android is such a good idea, but want more functionality from your phone? You could simply try a different version of Android.

If you’re not sure where to start, read about how to install a custom ROM on Android.

Read the full article: How to Run Linux on Android Devices

from MakeUseOf https://ift.tt/2qOSvjp

A look at IBM and Google's efforts to build a practical quantum computer, as Google chases quantum supremacy as a milestone while IBM chases "quantum advantage" (Gideon Lichfield/MIT Technology Review)

Gideon Lichfield / MIT Technology Review:
A look at IBM and Google's efforts to build a practical quantum computer, as Google chases quantum supremacy as a milestone while IBM chases “quantum advantage”  —  IBM thinks quantum supremacy is not the milestone we should care about.  —  Rigetti Computing / Justin Fantl

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2T6vyag

Uber, Lyft, DoorDash's gig worker ballot initiative heads to voters in November - CNET

The initiative, which aims to exempt the companies from California's gig worker law, has gathered 1 million signatures.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2I2pp8L

Best universal remotes of 2020 - CNET

From Harmony to Caavo to, well, other Harmonys, here's our favorite clickers, hubs and screens for controlling a cabinet-full of gear.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/396t3KP

FCC now collecting data on Huawei use in US networks - CNET

The info will help the US Federal Communications Commission reimburse smaller carriers for ripping out and replacing Huawei and ZTE equipment.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/32tBddy

Peloton, Daily Burn and more: Best workout subscription apps - CNET

You can take (almost) every fitness class you could ever want right from your living room.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/3926N4B

Facebook sues analytics firm for allegedly harvesting user data - CNET

The lawsuit is part of a broader campaign to combat abuse of the platform, Facebook says.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/3ceFru6

Senate passes bill that bans the government from purchasing Huawei and ZTE equipment, funds small telecoms to replace equipment; bill heads to Trump for signing (Maggie Miller/The Hill)

Maggie Miller / The Hill:
Senate passes bill that bans the government from purchasing Huawei and ZTE equipment, funds small telecoms to replace equipment; bill heads to Trump for signing  —  The Senate unanimously approved legislation on Thursday that would ban the use of federal funds to purchase telecommunications equipment …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/398hoer

West Midlands to get access to ultrafast home broadband

The West Midlands gigabit switch-on is the largest in the UK, says Virgin Media, but comes at a price.

from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/3anhCyD

Protecting whales from the noise people make in the ocean

Oil drilling and construction is creating a din for sealife - new tech is hoping to turn the volume down.

from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/389xJy2

Researchers argue that fear of rising data center usage, accounting for 1% of global electricity demand, is overblown and will be offset by improved efficiency (Maddie Stone/OneZero )

Maddie Stone / OneZero :
Researchers argue that fear of rising data center usage, accounting for 1% of global electricity demand, is overblown and will be offset by improved efficiency  —  Researchers argue that new technology and greater efficiency could offset energy demands  —  The climate impact of the data centers …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2TkGv6V

See Marvel head Kevin Feige play a Thanos-like villain on The Simpsons - CNET

Avengers: Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo also show up to try to stop Bart from spoiling their movie.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/385hUIE

Smartphone market expected to decline this year amid coronavirus outbreak, IDC says - CNET

The global phone market will decline 2.3% in 2020, with just over 1.3 billion shipments, the firm estimates.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/3cgV7x1

Biggest cosmic explosion since the Big Bang spotted in distant galaxy - CNET

No, it's not Betelgeuse. Sorry.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2HYGyAh

The Volkswagen Golf GTI keeps things fresh and familiar - Roadshow

The latest hot hatch will be no stranger to the GTI faithful.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2VsM5XC

iOS Copy-Paste Data Vulnerable to Snooping by Other Apps, Researchers Claim

Talal Haj Bakry and Tommy Mysk in their report said Apple's iPhone and iPad are vulnerable. Information stored in general pasteboard (clipboard) can be accessed by apps on the device.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2veF5mv

Vivo Z6 5G's 'PC-Grade Liquid Cooling' Detailed, Multi-Turbo 3.0 Acceleration Teased

Previous reports state that the Vivo Z6 5G will have two RAM variants and three storage options. There will be a quad camera setup on the back and a single selfie shooter.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/38YFiJl

iOS 14 May Get a Redesigned Multitasking Experience for iPhone Users, Video Suggests

iOS 14 is claimed to debut with a new multitasking experience for iPhone users. A five seconds video briefly shows the experience that could just be a jailbreak tweak.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2w5tgiq

Poco X2 Starts Receiving MIUI 11.0.4.0 Update in India With January Security Patch, Fixes

Poco X2 has started receiving MIUI 11.0.4.0 update in India that brings the January 2020 Android security patch. The new update also includes some bug fixes and performance improvements.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/39066sn

Samsung Begins Mass Production of First 16GB LPDDR5 DRAM Module for Premium Smartphones

Samsung announced that it has begun the mass production of an industry-first 16GB LPDDR5 DRAM package for the next generation of its premium smartphones.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2HRnPq8

Redmi K30 Pro Launch Teased by Xiaomi, Official Render Reveals Full-Screen Design

Xiaomi has started teasing the Redmi K30 Pro’s arrival and has shared a teaser poster that showcases its all-screen design.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2T110Xz

iPhone 12 to Feature Support for Ultra-Short Range Wi-Fi Standard: Report

Apple may include support for 802.11ay Wi-Fi standard in its next-generation iPhone models in 2020, potentially making its AirDrop feature more useful. The company is expected to launch three new iPhone 12 models in fall this year.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/37XUt43

Realme 6i Surfaces on FCC, Tipped to Pack 5,000mAh Battery, ColorOS 7.0, and Quad Camera Setup

Realme seems to be on a roll with its upcoming smartphones. The Realme 5i was announced in January and now, a little over a month later, images for the suspected Realme 6i have been leaked via the FCC certification.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2utkDOl

Samsung Galaxy M31 First Impressions

With a 6,000mAh battery and 64-megapixel primary camera, the Galaxy M31 improves upon the popular Galaxy M30s and goes up against popular models from Xiaomi and Realme

from RSS Feeds : RSS REVIEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/37T1sLH

iQoo 3 First Impressions

iQoo has entered the Indian smartphone market with the iQoo 3, does it have what it takes to succeed? Here are our first impressions of the device.

from RSS Feeds : RSS REVIEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2HRp8oS

Online gaming platform Roblox raises $150M led by a16z's Late Stage Venture fund, reportedly at a $4B valuation; Roblox was valued at $2.5B+ as of last year (Sarah Perez/TechCrunch)

Sarah Perez / TechCrunch:
Online gaming platform Roblox raises $150M led by a16z's Late Stage Venture fund, reportedly at a $4B valuation; Roblox was valued at $2.5B+ as of last year  —  Online gaming platform Roblox, now home to 115 million largely Gen Z players per month, announced today it has raised $150 million …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/32sxJIm

Large alien world with water vapor might still host life after all - CNET

The awkwardly named K2-18b may look like Neptune, but it could be hiding a giant, habitable Earth-like planet beneath its atmosphere.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2uyFfVz

Tim Cooke says Apple's first Indian store to open 2021

The iPhone maker lags behind competitors in the world's second largest mobile phone market.

from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2VqMzxi

Box beats Q4 expectations with revenue of $183.6M, up 12% YoY, and billings of $281.9M, up 19% YoY, says its achieved first full year of non-GAAP profitability (Stephanie Condon/ZDNet)

Stephanie Condon / ZDNet:
Box beats Q4 expectations with revenue of $183.6M, up 12% YoY, and billings of $281.9M, up 19% YoY, says its achieved first full year of non-GAAP profitability  —  Etsy and Nutanix also reported better-than-expected results for the last quarter  —  Cloud content management company Box achieved …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2T1Cw02

Profile of Downdetector, a resource for determining website and platform outages; Downdetector relies almost exclusively on user reports since 2001 (Kaitlyn Tiffany/The Atlantic)

Kaitlyn Tiffany / The Atlantic:
Profile of Downdetector, a resource for determining website and platform outages; Downdetector relies almost exclusively on user reports since 2001  —  Downdetector is a simple, ugly utility, which becomes a weird little life raft for displaced communities when their websites crash.

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2TlIOGL

Black Shark 3 Gaming Smartphone to Launch on March 3: All You Need to Know

Black Shark is returning with its next gen gaming phone and will officially launch, Black Shark 3 at an event in China on March 3. The company recently announced its partnership with Tencent Black Shark 3.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2T8l3lv

Poco X2 Confirmed to Receive Android 11 Update, No Word on the Timeline

Poco has now confirmed that it will be updating its second smartphone, the Poco X2 to Android 11 when it becomes available.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/3a5hmEh

Redmi K30 Pro Launch Teased As Xiaomi Discontinues Redmi K20 Pro in China

Redmi K30 Pro launch has been teased by Xiaomi sub-brand Redmi while announcing the discontinuation of Redmi K20 Pro through a post on Weibo.

from RSS Feeds | MOBILES - RSS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2SU56AL

Judge allows class action lawsuit against Ripple, which alleges the company misrepresented its XRP currency as a security, to proceed (Nikhilesh De/CoinDesk)

Nikhilesh De / CoinDesk:
Judge allows class action lawsuit against Ripple, which alleges the company misrepresented its XRP currency as a security, to proceed  —  A lawsuit claiming Ripple violated securities laws will be allowed to move forward - though with a caveat favorable to the San Francisco-based payments firm.

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/3a9lZgy

iBaby monitor vulnerable to hacking - CNET

Hackers could access saved videos and pictures and view live video, Bitdefender researchers found.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/382fOJx

Fly away with the original DJI Inspire 1 drone for $1099 - CNET

The first version of the DJI Inpsire is out of production, but you can get a factory refurb for as much as $800 off current prices.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/32xiKg1

Volkswagen Golf GTI sticks to its guns in evolutionary eight-generation - Roadshow

More power, more technology and refined looks keep the GTI familiar, yet slightly different.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/3cdp5Sw

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA45: The entry-level pocket-rocket - Roadshow

382 horsepower, 354 pound-feet of torque in a tiny package.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2vl1kqP

Pan-African e-commerce company Jumia reports 2019 revenues of €160.4M, up 24% YoY, operating loss of €227.9M, up 34% YoY; active customers reached 6.1M in Q4 (Jake Bright/TechCrunch)

Jake Bright / TechCrunch:
Pan-African e-commerce company Jumia reports 2019 revenues of €160.4M, up 24% YoY, operating loss of €227.9M, up 34% YoY; active customers reached 6.1M in Q4  —  Pan-African e-commerce company Jumia got into the black (by a small amount) on its gross profit vs. fulfillment expenses …

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/392BTcj

Realme X50 Pro 5G First Impressions

Realme has launched the X50 Pro in India, which makes it the first 5G phone to be launched here. It boasts of top-end specifications, super-fast charging, and a total of six cameras. Here’s our first look at the phone.

from RSS Feeds : RSS REVIEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/2Te3Dny

HiFuture TidyBuds Pro Review

Not only does the HiFuture TidyBuds Pro promise over 100 hours of listening on a single charge, but you can also use the charging case as a power bank. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this unique true wireless headset.

from RSS Feeds : RSS REVIEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/32jXN8i

Vu 4K Cinema LED Android TV Review

Vu’s latest television series takes things up a notch when it comes to specifications, HDR formats, and sound. Here’s our review of the Vu 4K Cinema LED Android TV.

from RSS Feeds : RSS REVIEWS Feed - NDTV Gadgets360.com https://ift.tt/328KUOh

McAfee to acquire Light Point Security, a provider of browser isolation tech used to protect against malicious websites, will integrate tech into its toolkit (Maria Deutscher/SiliconANGLE)

Maria Deutscher / SiliconANGLE:
McAfee to acquire Light Point Security, a provider of browser isolation tech used to protect against malicious websites, will integrate tech into its toolkit  —  McAfee LLC has acquired Light Point Security LLC, a provider of browser isolation technology founded by former National Security Agency cybersecurity experts.

from Techmeme https://ift.tt/2uz0pTu