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Best Gaming Gifts for 2023

Searching for the ideal gift for gamers can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not well-versed in the world of video games. The coveted gaming gear often comes with a hefty price tag, and expenses can quickly add up. Although many items in our guide to the best gifts for gamers are on the expensive side, don’t be discouraged. We’ve also included a selection of items that cater to smaller budgets.

Below, you’ll find the well-established essentials such as Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and Series S, Sony’s PS5, and the Nintendo Switch OLED. However, if you’re shopping for a dedicated gamer, chances are they already own one or more of these consoles. Not covered in our roundup are the latest Windows-enabled handheld consoles like the Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally, which, while carrying a hefty price tag, are not yet ready for widespread adoption.

Delving deeper into the gaming realm, Meta’s Quest 2 retains its status as the best VR headset, even with the recent release of the Quest 3. While the Quest 3 is newer, the Quest 2 is still a solid option, and its lower price can be a significant factor when you’re purchasing multiple gifts. It’s worth noting that our review of the Quest 3 is still pending, and our opinion may evolve after completion. Sony’s updated PlayStation VR headset, the PSVR 2, is also excellent but comes with a price tag comparable to the PS5, which is necessary for its use.

These impressive options are incomplete without essential accessories like gaming headsets, mice, and keyboards. While more budget-friendly, these accessories can still be relatively costly. We are diligently exploring numerous options across various price points, and we will continue to add more recommendations right up to the last possible moment.

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Vivo X100 Pro: A New Android Flagship Makes Global Debut

The global debut of the Vivo X100 Pro phone took place on Thursday, following its initial launch in China. This device, belonging to Vivo’s X Series, boasts a 6.78-inch AMOLED display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness reaching 3,000 nits.

Despite not enjoying the same global recognition as some other brands such as Huawei, Vivo holds significance in the market and shares its roots with Oppo and OnePlus under the BBK Electronics umbrella.

Powering the phone is Mediatek’s state-of-the-art Dimensity 9300 chipset, equipped with on-device generative AI capabilities. Mediatek claims that it can handle AI models with 7 billion parameters per second at 20 tokens per second, or generate an image using Stable Diffusion in less than one second.

Similar to Google’s Pixel 8, the Vivo X100 Pro incorporates various features that leverage its AI processing capabilities. It can summarize articles and interviews, generate plans for activities, and even create images based on a given word prompt. Our anticipation is high to explore and test these features and more when we get our hands on the X100 Pro.

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Grammarly Review: Not Your Mother’s Spell Checker

As a professional writer, I initially had little interest in acquiring a grammar and spelling checker. Admittedly, there was a degree of arrogance involved—I believed I didn’t require such a tool. I had confidence in my writing abilities and relied on the built-in tools of Microsoft and Google to catch any significant errors.

However, in recent weeks, I’ve been using Grammarly, a platform that goes beyond a basic grammar and spelling checker. Grammarly stands out with features that enable adjustments to the writing tone, identification of potential plagiarism, and customization of style and grammar rules. Additionally, it includes a generative AI tool for creating outlines and content.

Overall, my experience with Grammarly has been positive, although it’s not flawless. The free plan provides substantial assistance suitable for individuals seeking robust editing without a financial commitment. Nevertheless, if you require more advanced editing capabilities or find yourself writing in professional environments with strict style and tone requirements, it may be worth considering an investment in a paid plan.

What you’ll get with Grammarly’s basic editing service

Grammarly’s complimentary plan grants access to its fundamental editing service, which aids in identifying and rectifying errors across three primary domains: spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Additionally, it furnishes suggestions to enhance the clarity of your writing. The concise nature of Grammarly’s recomme...

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Samsung Galaxy AI on the Galaxy S24: Everything We Know So Far

The upcoming Galaxy S24 lineup from Samsung is anticipated to distinguish itself from previous models, with a notable emphasis on innovative software features. While Samsung, a prominent smartphone manufacturer known for prioritizing high-resolution cameras, vibrant displays, and efficient performance, typically leads with these hardware aspects, the S24 is expected to shine primarily due to the incorporation of advanced generative AI-powered functionalities.

The company has recently introduced its proprietary AI model and Galaxy AI, a novel AI “experience” designed for mobile devices. These developments strongly suggest that these cutting-edge technologies will play a significant role in shaping the Galaxy S24’s appeal. In the tech landscape of 2023, generative AI, capable of providing conversational yet not always precise responses based on training data, has gained widespread traction. This trend has extended to smartphones, notably seen with the Pixel 8 series from Google and the introduction of new AI-optimized phone chips by Qualcomm and MediaTek towards the end of the year.

As we await the rumored January debut of the Galaxy S24 lineup, insights into Samsung’s AI strategy for these phones are eagerly anticipated, as suggested by reports from the Korean news outlet SBS Biz. It is likely that the integration of generative AI will be a key highlight, marking a departure from the traditional focus on hardware specifications.

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Stream the Hallmark Channel Without a Cable Provider

It’s December, and you can ride the wave of holiday movies on the Hallmark Channel. Though the Christmas in July programming sets the stage during the summer, fans truly immerse themselves in the festivities now. Don’t worry if you’ve missed out on Hallmark’s countdown so far, because it’s the perfect time to embrace the spirit and extend it into the new year.

Streaming is the answer for those without access to the Hallmark Channel through a cable or satellite TV provider. While you may already be watching Hallmark Movies & More free content through a FAST (for “free, ad-supported television”) platform like Pluto TV, it’s the Hallmark Channel that is flush with new titles this season. Here’s where to stream it without cable and how a VPN can help your experience.

Watch the Hallmark Channel on Peacock

Peacock stands out as the most budget-friendly streaming platform offering the Hallmark Channel. The application includes a dedicated Hallmark hub, allowing users to watch the latest movies and TV series either live as they are broadcast or on-demand for a three-day period. Apart from on-demand access to Hallmark titles, viewers can enjoy three continuous live channels on Peacock, featuring content from Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and Hallmark Drama around the clock. Additionally, the streaming service provides some Spanish-language content. It’s important to note that advertisements play during content viewing in the channels section, irrespective of the subscription type.

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5 everyday iPhone accessories I highly recommend — and where to buy them

Whenever I switch from an iPhone to an Android device, I find myself longing for the diverse range of third-party cases and accessories designed for Apple’s products. The introduction of MagSafe with the iPhone 12 series marked a significant shift for me. The incorporation of magnets around the charging coil inside the phone led to a plethora of accessories that securely attach to the back of the phone with a satisfying snap, and since then, I haven’t looked back.

Aside from the delights of MagSafe, Apple’s accessory ecosystem is further fortified by other systems that make it challenging to transition away. Notably, the W1 and H1 chips facilitate one-touch pairing of Bluetooth headphones, seamlessly syncing them across iCloud devices. While Google and Samsung offer similar experiences, Apple’s integration feels more ingrained in my usage.

Over the past few years, I’ve explored numerous iPhone accessories, and though some have faded away like unsuccessful romances, a select few have become indispensable. This compilation features the everyday iPhone accessories that occupy a near-permanent space in my bag and consistently prove their utility.

Astute readers may spot a minor discrepancy in the photo above. Like many, I welcomed Apple’s adoption of the USB-C connection with the iPhone 15 series. However, a challenge arises as a couple of my reliable accessories are Lightning-based. Rest assured, I plan to seek out USB-C alternatives in the coming weeks. Nevertheless, given their reliable performance with previous iPhones, I found it fitting to include them in this roundup.

To sweeten the deal, a few of these accessories are currently on discount for holiday sales. If you decide to follow my lead, you might be able to acquire them at a considerably lower price than I initially did.

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Best TV for PS5 and Xbox Series X, Series S for 2023: LG OLED, Samsung QLED, Vizio

TVs serve a broader purpose beyond merely serving as a platform for watching movies or TV shows. Over time, the functionality of TVs has evolved, and individuals seeking a new TV nowadays must consider various factors. This encompasses compatibility with gaming setups, a crucial consideration for many buyers. Modern TVs geared towards gaming often highlight impressive features such as HDMI 2.1 support with 120Hz and low-latency capabilities. While any TV with an HDMI port can connect to gaming consoles like the PS5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S, the full potential of these advanced consoles can only be fully realized with TVs equipped with HDMI 2.1 ports.

The finest 4K TVs currently available come with HDMI 2.1 ports, enabling users to engage in gaming at 4K resolution with HDR and achieve impressive frame rates of up to 120 frames per second. Additionally, the gaming experience is enhanced by a seamlessly smooth gameplay, facilitated by features like variable refresh rate (VRR) that diminishes issues like choppy movement and screen tearing, ensuring a consistently high-quality picture.

Fortunately, obtaining a TV with these gaming-friendly features doesn’t necessitate a substantial investment in an oversized 88-inch 8K display. In reality, one can find most of the essential features for an exceptional gaming experience, such as 4K 120Hz and VRR, in 50-inch TVs priced at $600 or less, and 65-inch models available for under $1,000.

What is the best TV for PS5 and Xbox right now?

While the LG C2 may come with a higher price tag, it combines top-notch image quality with impressive gaming capabilities across all inputs. All HDMI ports on the TV are equipped with the latest HDMI standard, version 2.1. This ensures that the ports can handle 4K resolution at 120 frames per second, support variable refresh rate (including Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync), as well as provide enhanced audio return channel and automatic low latency mode (auto game mode). Essentially, the TV can fully leverage the latest graphics features offered by the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S consoles, as well as high-end graphics cards. A noteworthy feature is that all four HDMI ports on the C2 support 4K at 120 frames per second, making it an excellent choice for dedicated gamers with multiple next-gen devices. Additionally, the TV includes a specialized Game Optimizer settings suite, making it an ideal option for gamers seeking outstanding picture quality and willing to invest for it.

Best TVs for PS5 and Xbox of 2023

If you’re searching for the optimal TV to enhance your gaming experience on platforms like PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or any other next-gen console, check out our top picks for gaming TVs. Unless specified otherwise, the prices provided are for the 65-inch models, but each series is also offered in various other sizes.

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OnePlus 12 is coming with a feature all other phones need to copy

OnePlus introduced its latest flagship, the OnePlus 12, in China earlier this week. Although it will take some time before the phone becomes available in international markets, we now have detailed information about its hardware and features, including the reintegration of the alert slider.

The alert slider was notably absent from the last two OnePlus flagship models, having been removed from the OnePlus 10T to make room for internal upgrades. However, it made a triumphant comeback with the OnePlus 11 earlier this year and has been retained for both the OnePlus 12 and the foldable OnePlus Open. This suggests that the alert slider is likely here to stay.

This feature is something that other smartphones, be they Androids or iPhones, could greatly benefit from, and it’s a noteworthy addition to the OnePlus 12.

Quick-muting your phone is super conve

Similar to the mute switch found on the iPhone, the alert slider on OnePlus phones serves the purpose of adjusting the sound settings without having to unlock the device. While the iPhone’s mute switch toggles between ring and vibrate modes, the alert slider takes it a step further by providing a complete silent mode.

The silent mode essentially functions as a quasi-“do not disturb” feature without requiring you to access the phone’s quick settings. It silences various notifications, call alerts, and even media playback on the phone.

This quick access to silence is particularly valuable, especially considering the growing complexity of Android’s quick-volume menus. With multiple volume sliders to manage, it can be challenging to identify and adjust the specific settings quickly, especially if two sliders appear simultaneously on the screen.

While an instant mute button may not be the most elegant solution, it offers a convenient way to promptly silence the device without any hassle. This feature becomes especially beneficial in situations where unexpected loud sounds from the phone can be awkward or embarrassing, as we’ve all encountered instances where the volume was louder than anticipated. The instant mute switch not only resolves the issue swiftly but also helps alleviate any sense of panic that may arise during such moments.

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PlayStation Portal Review: A PS5 in Your Hands, With Limits

Sony appears fixated on expanding the PlayStation 5 gaming experience beyond the confines of your television. In a previous review earlier this year, I delved into the immersive PlayStation VR 2—a tethered headset capable of playing PS5 games. The PlayStation Portal, priced at $200 (£200, AU$330), offers a less radical and more budget-friendly alternative. It allows you to take your PS5 into another room within your home, but in a handheld streaming format. Despite its appearance resembling a handheld game system, it proves to be a more restricted and specialized product than initial expectations.

After spending weeks exploring the Portal, I’ve developed a positive inclination towards it. However, recommending it is a challenge. While its controls are commendable and the display is sizeable and sharp, the streaming quality tends to be inconsistent. It’s worth noting the peculiar nature of this device—Sony, a company that once produced handheld consoles like the Vita, now presents a standalone handheld look-alike that cannot play games independently. Instead, it relies on streaming games from your PS5, essentially resembling a PS5 controller with a built-in screen.

Although the Portal stands out as a possibly superior method for playing PS5 games in handheld mode anywhere within your home, it undeniably suggests an idea that Sony should refine further. It serves as a reminder that while the PlayStation’s remote play capabilities are excellent, this hardware is essentially a specialized device offering the same streaming features available on a phone or tablet with a snap-on or wireless controller through Sony’s PS Remote Play app. While Sony has enhanced the experience with the Portal’s display and controls, the streaming quality remains consistent with existing options.

Better and bigger than a Backbone

Unboxing it for the initial time, my first impression was that it appeared somewhat comical. It had a sleek appearance, yet a quirky one. The display, resembling a flat tablet, was positioned between two sections of a complete game controller, featuring classic Sony contour lines. The USB-C charging port was discreetly placed underneath, almost as if trying to stay inconspicuous. Its portability doesn’t seem to be a strong suit, given its awkward shape and the absence of an included case. With protruding grips, it somewhat resembles a Sony Batarang. However, it’s essential to note that its design suggests it’s not intended for on-the-go use; instead, it’s meant to stay within the confines of your home.

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Hurry! This Nintendo Switch OLED bundle is just $324 right now

Finding good deals on Nintendo Switch OLED is a challenge, with limited options for discounts and bundles. However, there’s a rare opportunity at GameStop, where they are currently offering a special deal on the Nintendo Switch OLED Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Bundle. Priced at $324.99, this deal is exclusive to GameStop, but to avail of the $25 discount, you must purchase it online and choose in-store pickup. This makes it a compelling offer, especially considering that other retailers like Amazon and Best Buy are selling the same bundle for $349. Keep an eye on our Nintendo Switch deals coverage for more discounts on games and accessories.

The Nintendo Switch OLED boasts a significant enhancement, primarily evident in its stunning OLED display, which significantly enhances the visual experience of top-notch Nintendo Switch games. Notably, the 7-inch OLED screen surpasses the 6.2-inch standard found in regular Switch or Switch Lite models, and the internal storage has been doubled from 32GB to 64GB.

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