Brenda Stolyar
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Brenda became obsessed with technology after receiving her first Dell computer from her grandpa in the second grade. While she’s since moved on from Windows XP, she still brags about her hidden collection of computer games. She graduated from Rutgers University and was the features editor of the college newspaper. She loves to write about tech, music, and film.
Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL: Everything you need to know
Last October, Google launched its latest smartphones the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. Both provide an excellent camera, fast performance, and a colorful display. Impressed by its functionality and style, we named the Pixel 2 XL our best Android phone. Here's everything you need to know about the two devices.
The best iOS 12 features
Apple has officially released the final version of its latest operating system, iOS 12, after months of beta programs. From app updates to grouped notifications and ARKit 2.0, there are a ton of new features you'll want to try out. Here's our exhaustive list of all the features you'll find in iOS 12.
Find the best, most stylish smartwatch for her this Valentine’s Day
If you're looking to buy that special woman in your life a smartwatch this Valentine's Day, we're here to help. We have a list of the best, most stylish smartwatches with which to adorn your loved's one's wrist. Whatever her style and whatever your budget, there's something here that should appeal.
Michael Kors Access Runway smartwatch: Everything you need to know
Michael Kors has brought back the Access Runway name it last used in 2016, and this time attached it to a Wear OS smartwatch, complete with a heart rate tracker, GPS, NFC, and a very cool way of customizing the watch face, too. Here's all you need to know about the new Michael Kors Access Runway smartwatch.
Fossil Sport smartwatch: Everything you need to know
Following the launch of Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear 3100, Fossil has officially released its first-ever smartwatch with the new chipset. Known as the Fossil Sport, it comes with a heart rate monitor, built-in GPS, NFC, and Google's latest version of Wear OS. Here's everything you need to know.
Matrix PowerWatch 2 hands-on review
Matrix has unveiled the PowerWatch 2 at CES 2019. Building off the PowerWatch X, the new smartwatch packs more capabilities into a smaller, sleeker case -- that charges solely using body heat and solar rays. We take a first look at the PowerWatch 2 to see exactly what the device has to offer.
Mobvoi TicWatch C2 review
The Mobvoi TicWatch C2 smartwatch may be powered by an older Qualcomm chip, but it does pack all the fitness features you need -- including built-in GPS along with a heart-rate monitor -- and it runs Google’s newly designed Wear OS. For $200, it’s a sleek-looking smartwatch you’ll want to wear everyday.
Polar Vantage V and M fitness watches: Everything you need to know
For athletes especially, very few fitness wearable manufacturers provide as much precision as Polar -- and its latest lineup of devices is no different. Known as the Polar Vantage V and the Polar Vantage M, both devices provide a new optical heart rate sensor, additional tracking metrics, and more.
Key settings you need to change on your brand-new iPhone XR
If you've managed to get your hands on Apple's iPhone XR, you'll want to make sure you get the most of your new smartphone. That's why we've rounded up a variety of settings we think you should turn on or change, which will allow you to use your new iPhone to the best of its abilities.
Wear OS for smartwatches: Everything you need to know
Google has officially rebranded its Android Wear operating system to Wear OS. Removing the Android name may help people better understand Google-powered smartwatches. How does Wear OS differ from Android Wear? Outside of the name change and the new logo, Google is also gradually rolling out new features.
Google Fit app finally gets a widget, among other new features
Google Fit hasn't received any new features since its major redesign this past summer. Starting this week, the company is rolling out a few new tools -- ranging from a widget to the ability to adjust workout intensity. Wear OS smartwatch owners will also have access to a breathing exercise app.
Google will shut down its Allo messaging app in 2019
Only a few days ago, reports surfaced that Google Hangouts was shutting down in 2020. While Google has since clarified any confusion, it didn't take long for another rumor to appear -- this time, about its chat app Allo. Sources close to the matter claim the tech giant is shutting it down "soon."
Seedling for Magic Leap is the most expensive plant you’ll ever take care of
Insomniac Games has officially launched its new game for Magic Leap One, called 'Seedling.' Throughout the game, you can nurture your very own plant life form wherever you are. In our demo, we got to check out what it feels like to take care of a virtual plant using a very expensive machine.
Google Assistant adds new features to help get you through the holiday rush
There's no denying the holidays really are the most wonderful time of the year. But the month of December also means crunch time. That's why Google has conveniently debuted a handful of new Google Assistant features to help your spirts up. But don't worry, they can also be used all-year round.
The best iPad Pro tips and tricks
Even if you're an iPhone X user or a MacBook Pro devotee, the all-new iPad Pro is a different beast. Sure, you could use it in much the same way you would an iPhone, but then you'd be missing out on a plethora of shortcuts to better your experience. Here's a list of our top iPad Pro tips and tricks.
Huawei Band 3 Pro review
Huawei’s latest fitness tracker is the Huawei Band 3 Pro. At $70, the Band 3 Pro is meant to be a versatile device that can be worn both day and night while also providing advanced fitness tracking when you need it. But with very few differences from its predecessor, is it worth the upgrade? Find out in our Huawei Band 3 Pro review.
Dread the gym? This smart mirror delivers your fitness fix at home
Mirror, launched back in September, is different than other fitness equipment on the market. It's part mirror and part LCD display, with a varied menu of on-demand workouts built into it. We visited Mirror's HQ in NYC to test it out and see if it's really worth cancelling that gym membership for.
Google replaces classic Search page with Discover on mobile devices
As part of its 20th anniversary, Google unveiled its plans for its next 20 years, and the improvements it's bringing to Search. One of those improvements will be reflected in the Google Feed. Not only will it now be known as Discover, but the update will bring additional features and a revamped look.
Fossil Sport review
Fossil has released its first-ever smartwatch featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 3100. For $255, each quirky-colored version of the smartwatch comes packed with a heart-rate sensor, built-in GPS, and more. We took the Fossil Sport through its paces to see whether the new technology lives up to the expectations.
Use multiple phone numbers on one device with Verizon’s ‘My Numbers’ app
Almost everyone likes to keep their business and personal lives separate from one another, but not when it requires having to keep track of multiple devices and phone numbers. That's why Verizon is now allowing its customers to add up to four additional numbers to one smartphone with its new app.
T-Mobile Revvl 2 and Revvl 2 Plus: Everything you need to know
Last year, T-Mobile launched its own line of branded smartphones made by TCL-owned Alcatel. As a follow-up to the original Revvl, the carrier has unveiled its next-generation devices -- the Revvl 2 and Revvl 2 Plus, which are now available for purchase. Here's everything you need to know.
Google confirms it will add Android support for foldable displays
It's already clear the smartphone trend of 2019 will be foldable devices, and Google is welcoming it with open arms. At this year's Android Dev Summit, the company announced its adding support for what's known as "Foldables" -- allowing Android apps to work seamlessly with the new form factor.
Following reports of bricked devices, Apple’s WatchOS 5.1.1 fixes the issue
Apple pulled its WatchOS 5.1 software update following several reports that users installed the update only to find their watch has been bricked. A new version of the update has been released, WatchOS 5.1.1 -- which should prevent the issue from happening. It also comes with new features and improvements.