The UN’s International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) have issued a stark warning about the rapid growth in e-waste, which has outpaced how quickly we can recycle and safely dispose of unwanted products.
According to the 2024 Global E-waste Monitor (GEM) report, the world generates around 2.6 million metric tonnes of e-waste annually, a figure that’s expected to skyrocket to a staggering 82 million tonnes by 2030.
More alarmingly, documented recycling efforts only account for a fraction of the total waste produced, with an estimated five times more waste being created than recycled through officially recognized procedures.
Our e-waste generation is about to blow up
Handling and recycling e-waste is a more complex issue than it may seem at first. While there are environmental benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gases and recovering valuable materials like gold, copper, and iron, the extraction processes can be extremely costly.
The UN report estimates the net annual economic cost of e-waste at $37 billion, with projected costs set to rise to $40 billion by the end of the decade if the industry fails to make substantial improvements to management and policies.
There’s also a geographical disparity when it comes to e-waste, says the UN. According to the figures, Europe leads the way with a recycling rate of 42.8% – a comparably positive sum, but one that still leaves a lot of room for improvement. However, Africa is way behind with a recycling rate of only 0.7%.
With such a long way to go, the report calls for urgent action to improve current recycling processes and systems globally to address rising rates of electronic waste, hoping that the industry can make some substantial sustainability gains.
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As temperatures begin to rise, it’s time to prepare your outdoor space for some seasonal relaxation. That, of course, includes showing off your culinary skills on the porch, patio or in the backyard for guests. During the winter, your grill has probably been hibernating, so you’ll need to give it a tune-up before it’s ready for heavy use from spring to fall. Even if you kept the grill going in the cold, now is a great time for a thorough cleaning before the official outdoor cooking season begins. Here are a few tips and tricks that will hopefully make things easier.
Disassemble, scrub, reassemble
Billy Steele/Engadget
A good rule of thumb when it comes to cleaning anything you haven’t used in a while is to take it apart as much as you feel comfortable and give it a thorough wipe down. For grills, this means removing the grates and any bars or burner covers – basically, anything you can take out that’s not the heating element. This gives you a chance to inspect the burners of your gas grill or the fire pot of a pellet model for any unsightly wear and tear. If those components are worn out or overly rusted, most companies offer replacements that you can easily swap out with a few basic tools.
Once all the pieces are out, start by scraping excess debris off all sides of the interior – with the help of some cleaner if needed. For a gas grill, this likely means pushing everything out through the grease trap. On a pellet grill, you’ll want to scrape the grease chute clear and out into the catch can, but you’ll also need to vacuum the interior with a shop vac – just like you would after every few hours of use. And while you’re at it, go ahead and empty the hopper of any old pellets that have been sitting since Labor Day. Fuel that’s been sitting in the grill for months won’t give you the best results when it comes time to cook so you might as well start fresh.
Thankfully, pellet grill companies have made easy cleaning a key part of their designs. Weber’s SmokeFire has a set of metal bars on the inside that can be removed quickly to open up the bottom of the chamber. This is also a design feature of the company’s gas grills. Simply vacuum or push the debris out the grease chute. The catch pan where all of the garbage ends up is also easy to access from the front of the grill, and you can remove the aluminum liner and replace it with a new one in seconds.
Traeger’s most recent pellet grills were also redesigned to improve cleaning. Most notably, grease and ash end up in the same “keg” that’s easy to detach from the front of the grill. The company also allows you to quickly remove all of the interior components, though they’re larger than what you find on the SmokeFire. Lastly, Traeger moved the pellet chute to the front of the new Timberline and Ironwood, making it a lot more convenient to swap out wood varieties or empty an old supply.
You’ll want to get as much of the food leftovers out of your grill as possible for a few reasons. First, that stuff is old and lots of build-up over time can hinder cooking performance and might impact flavor. The last thing you want is old food or grease burning off right under an expensive ribeye. Second, in the case of pellet grills, not properly clearing out grease and dust can be dangerous. It’s easy for grease fires to start at searing temperatures and if there’s enough pellet dust in the bottom of your grill, it can actually ignite or explode. That’s why companies tell you to vacuum it out after every few hours of use.
All of that dust, grease and debris should be removed before you fire the grill back up. (Billy Steele/Engadget)
To actually clean the surfaces, you’ll want to get an all-natural grill cleaner. There are tons of options here, and it may take some time to find one you like. I typically use Traeger’s formula since it’s readily available at the places I buy pellets and I’ve found it works well cutting through stuck-on muck. You want an all-natural grill cleaner over a regular household product as it’s safe to use on surfaces that will touch your food. They’re also safe to use on the exterior of your grill without doing any damage to chrome, stainless steel or any other materials.
Spray down the inside and give things a few minutes to work. Wipe it all clean and go back over any super dirty spots as needed. Ditto for the grates, bars and any other pieces you removed. I like to lay these out on a yard waste trash bag (they’re bigger than kitchen bags) so all the stuff I scrape or clean off doesn’t get all over my deck. You can use shop towels if you want to recycle or paper towels if not, but just know whatever you choose will be covered in nasty black grime so you won’t want to just toss them in the clothes washer when you’re done. A pre-wash in a bucket or sink is needed to make sure you don’t transfer gunk from your grill to your business casuals.
In terms of tools, you don’t need much. I’ve tried that grill robot that claims to do the job for you, but I’ve found sticking to the basics is more efficient. And honestly, when you get the hang of it, it doesn’t take all that long. It’s a good idea to have a wire brush specifically for the grates that you don’t use to clean anything else. After all, this will be touching the same surfaces you put food on. I recommend another, smaller wire brush – the ones that look like big toothbrushes – for cleaning the burners on a gas grill. If you notice the flame isn’t firing through one of the holes, you can use this to clean the pathway. Lastly, plastic is the way to go for a scraper, anything else and you risk scratching the surfaces of your grill. Sure, any damage done would be on the inside, but it’s still not a great feeling to knick up your previous investment.
Check for updates before your first cook
Traeger
If you have a smart grill from the likes of Traeger, Weber or another company, you’ll want to plug it in and check for software updates well in advance of your first grilling session. Chances are you haven’t cooked much since last fall, which means companies have had months to push updates to their devices. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than spending an hour trimming and seasoning a brisket only to walk outside to start the grill and it immediately launches into the update process. This could extend the whole cooking time significantly depending on the extent of the firmware additions and strength of your WiFi.
Thankfully, checking for updates is quick and easy. All you need to do is turn on your grill and open up the company’s app on your phone. If there’s a download ready for your model, the mobile software will let you know and it’s usually quite prominent. If there’s not a pop-up alert that displays immediately, you can check the settings menu just to make sure. Sometimes for smaller updates, a company might not beat you over the head to refresh. However, starting a fresh slate of firmware is always a safe bet and will ensure your grill is running at its best when it comes time to cook.
For a good time every time, clean after each use
Billy Steele/Engadget
I’ll be the first to admit I don’t adhere to my own advice here, but it’s nice to have goals. I will also be the first to tell you every single time I smoke a Boston Butt or some other super fatty cut of meat that I wish I would’ve done at least a quick cleaning right after the meal. Grease buildup is not only highly flammable but it’s much harder to clean once it cools and solidifies. Ditto for stuck-on sauce or cheese that’s left on your grates after chicken or burgers. It’s best to attack these things while the grill is still warm, but cooled down from the cook.
You don’t necessarily have to break out the shop vac each time for your pellet grill or empty the grease bin. But you’ll want to make sure that stuff is away from the main cooking area for safety and so any burn off won’t impact the flavor of your food. A few cups of hot water can cleanse the grease run-off while that wire brush I mentioned is best for the grates. It also doesn’t hurt to do a light wipe down with an all-natural cleaner so everything is ready to go when you want to cook again.
New grills coming soon
A number of grill companies have already announced their 2024 product lineups. If you’re looking for new gear for the summer, some of them are already available while others will be arriving over the next few weeks. Recteq announced a robust group of grills in October, all of which are Wi-Fi-connected pellet models. The company also updated its family of “regular” pellet grills while taking the wraps off the SmokeStone 600 griddle and the dual-chamber DualFire 1000.
Weber has also tipped its hand for 2024. Back at CES, the company revealed a redesigned pellet grill, the Searwood, that will replace the SmokeFire in North America. Part of Searwood’s feature set is a special mode that allows you to use the grill while the lid is open for things like searing and flat-top griddling. Weber also debuted a new gas griddle, the Slate, that has a specially designed cooking surface that the company promises won’t rust and a digital temperature gauge. What’s more, there’s a new premium Summit smart gas grill with a massive touchscreen color display and top-mounted infrared broiler. Smart features here help with everything from gas flow to individual burners to monitoring fuel supply and dialing in the cooking process. All of the new Weber grills are scheduled to arrive this spring.
We haven’t heard much from Traeger this year and there’s a good chance the company won’t have new grills in 2024. It overhauled the Timberline in 2022 and brought some of the latest features, including the touchscreen display, to the Ironwood in 2023. Never say never, but if you’re looking for another all-new Traeger grill, you might be waiting several months.
In the increasingly competitive world of the best streaming services, the hard bit isn’t just deciding what to watch – it’s deciding which service to subscribe to in the first place. With prices going up and wages… not so much, more and more of us are starting to think much more critically about the services we subscribe to.
There are even those that are cutting their TV streaming bills by 75% with subscription hopping. But wouldn’t it be great if there was an app that could help us decide which to keep and which to ditch by pointing out which streamers are best suited to what we want to see?
That’s what the recommendation app Watchworthy is promising with the launch of some new streaming features. The first is a collaborative watchlist you can use to get recommendations for your family or friend group. But it’s the second one that’s more interesting, because it can help you decide which streaming subscriptions are worth paying for.
How does Watchworthy help you decide which services are worth watching?
The Watchworthy app (pictured above) is available on both iOS and Android. (Image credit: Watchworthy)
The new streaming recommendation feature, which is called Worthy Services, is a recommendation service for platforms rather than individual movies or shows. It asks about your taste in TV and then looks at each of the streaming services to see which ones have the most shows you want to see. It also works across paid streamers including Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Apple TV Plus, Disney Plus and Max.
If you’re already using the app you shouldn’t need to do anything, but if you’re new you’ll first need to tell the app which movies and shows you want to see. It’ll then show you which shows and movies are available on what service. Each recommendation gets a “worthy” score: the higher the percentage, the more the subscription is worth having. And the lower the number, the more thought you should give to perhaps unsubscribing.
As with any recommendation engine the downside here is that what you watch and what you say you want to watch reflect the shows and genres you already know you like, not the shows and genres you don’t know you like yet. But that’s where the rest of the app comes in: its core purpose is to show you new stuff, so it uses your watchlist as a starting point for its own recommendations.
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The Chromebook market has grown so much over the past few years that choosing the best Chromebook for you can be hard. The combination of years worth of software updates and manufacturers making laptops with more power, better build quality and long battery life means there are a ton of good Chrome OS machines that work well as everyday drivers. While Google did make things simpler last fall by introducing the Chromebook Plus initiative (more on that below), there are still multiple things to keep in mind when shopping for a new Chromebook. I’ve been testing and reviewing Chromebooks for years and know what you should be looking for, and what you can expect out of these laptops in 2024.
Editor’s note (3/22/24): We’re constantly testing and evaluating new Chromebooks for this guide, and there are two models on our radar for inclusion that we’re eager to test. Both Acer and ASUS offer 15-inch Chromebook Plus models for $399, and we think one (or both) could be good options for someone who wants a bigger screen for less cash.
What is Chrome OS, and why would I use it over Windows?
This is probably the number one question about Chromebooks. There are plenty of inexpensive Windows laptops on the market, so why bother with Chrome’s operating system? Glad you asked. For me, the simple and clean nature of Chrome OS is a big selling point. Chrome OS is based on Google’s Chrome browser, which means most of the programs you can run are web based. There’s no bloatware or unwanted apps to uninstall like you often get on Windows laptops, it boots up in seconds, and you can completely reset to factory settings almost as quickly.
Of course, simplicity will also be a major drawback for some users. Not being able to install native software can be a dealbreaker if you’re a video editor or software developer. But there are also plenty of people who do the majority of their work in a web browser.
Google and its software partners are getting better every year at supporting more advanced features. For example, Google added video editing tools to the Google Photos app on Chromebooks – it won’t replace Adobe Premiere, but it should be handy for a lot of people. Similarly, Google and Adobe announced Photoshop on the web last year, something that should bring much of the power of Adobe’s desktop apps to Chromebooks.
Google has also added support for Android apps on Chromebooks, which greatly expands the amount of software available. The quality varies widely, but it means you can do more with a Chromebook beyond just web-based apps. For example, you can install the Netflix app and save videos for offline watching. Other Android apps like Microsoft Office and Adobe Lightroom are surprisingly capable as well. Between Android apps and a general improvement in web apps, Chromebooks are more than just portals to a browser.
What do Chromebooks do well?
Photo by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Put simply, web browsing and really anything web based. Online shopping, streaming music and video and using various social media sites are among the most common daily tasks people do on Chromebooks. As you might expect, they also work well with Google services like Photos, Docs, Gmail, Drive, Keep and so on. Yes, any computer that can run Chrome can do that too, but the lightweight nature of Google Chrome OS makes it a responsive and stable platform.
As I mentioned before, Chrome OS can run Android apps, so if you’re an Android user you’ll find some nice ties between the platforms. You can get most of the same apps that are on your phone on a Chromebook and keep info in sync between them. You can also use some Android phones as a security key for your Chromebook or instantly tether your laptop to use mobile data.
Google continues to tout security as a major differentiator for Chromebooks, and it’s definitely a factor worth considering. Auto-updates are the first lines of defense. Chrome OS updates download quickly in the background and a fast reboot is all it takes to install the latest version. Google says that each webpage and app on a Chromebook runs in its own sandbox as well, so any security threats are contained to that individual app. Finally, Chrome OS has a self-check called Verified Boot that runs every time a device starts up. Beyond all this, the simple fact that you generally can’t install traditional apps on a Chromebook means there are fewer ways for bad actors to access the system.
As for when to avoid Chromebooks, the answer is simple: If you rely heavily on a specific native application for Windows or a Mac, chances are you won’t find the exact same option on a ChromeOS device. That’s most true in fields like photo and video editing, but it can also be the case in law or finance. Plenty of businesses run on Google’s G suite software, but more still have specific requirements that a Chromebook might not match. If you’re an iPhone user, you’ll also miss out on the way the iPhone easily integrates with an iPad or Mac. For me, the big downside is not being able to access iMessage on a Chromebook.
Finally, gaming Chromebooks are not ubiquitous, although they’re becoming a slightly more reasonable option with the rise of cloud gaming. In late 2022, Google and some hardware partners announced a push to make Chromebooks with cloud gaming in mind. From a hardware perspective, that means laptops with bigger screens that have higher refresh rates as well as optimizing those laptops to work with services like NVIDIA GeForce Now, Xbox Game Pass and Amazon Luna. You’ll obviously need an internet connection to use these services, but the good news is that playing modern games on a Chromebook isn’t impossible. You can install Android games from the Google Play Store, but that’s not what most people are thinking of when they want to game on a laptop.
There’s another potential change on the horizon, as Valve and Google are working to bring the massive Steam catalog to Chromebooks. Right now, Steam is only available as an early alpha on a handful of devices with higher specs, but it works a lot better than I expected. You’re still not going to run the most demanding games on basic laptops, but the Steam catalog is so vast that there are plenty of titles that worked on the Chromebook I tested it with. If you’re interested in giving it a shot, you can find the full list of supported Chromebooks and details on how to try Steam here.
What are the most important specs for a Chromebook?
Photo by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Chrome OS is lightweight and usually runs well on fairly modest hardware, so the most important thing to look for might not be processor power or storage space. But Google made it easier to get consistent specs and performance late last year when it introduced the Chromebook Plus initiative. Any device with a Chromebook Plus designation meets some minimum requirements, which happen to be very similar to what I’d recommend most people get if they’re looking for a laptop they can use every day.
Chromebook Plus models have at least a 12th-gen Intel Core i3 processor, or an AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series processor, both of which should be more than enough for most people. These laptops also have a minimum of 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which should do the trick unless you’re really pushing your Chromebook. All Chromebook Plus models have to have a 1080p webcam, which is nice in these days of constant video calling, and they also all have to have at least a 1080p IPS screen.
Of course, you can get higher specs or better screens if you desire, but I’ve found that basically everything included in the Chromebook Plus target specs makes for a very good experience.
Google has an Auto Update policy for Chromebooks, and while that’s not exactly a spec, it’s worth checking before you buy. Last year, Google announced that Chromebooks would get software updates and support for an impressive 10 years after their release date. This support page lists the Auto Update expiration date for virtually every Chromebook ever, but a good rule of thumb is to buy the newest machine you can to maximize your support.
How much should I spend?
Chromebooks started out notoriously cheap, with list prices often coming in under $300. But as they’ve gone more mainstream, they’ve transitioned from being essentially modern netbooks to the kind of laptop you’ll want to use all day. As such, prices have increased: At this point, you should expect to spend at least $400 if you want a solid daily driver. There are still many budget options out there that may be suitable as secondary devices, but Chromebooks that can be all-day, every-day laptops will cost more. But, notably, even the best Chromebooks usually cost less than the best Windows or “regular” laptops out there.
There are plenty of premium Chromebooks that approach or even exceed $1,000, but I don’t recommend spending that much. Generally, that’ll get you a better design with more premium materials, as well as more powerful internals and extra storage space. Of course, you also sometimes pay for the brand name. But, the specs I outlined earlier are usually enough.
See Also:
Photo by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Screen size: 14 inches | Screen resolution: 1,920 x 1,200 | Installed memory: 8GB | Weight: 3.52 lbs | Available ports: 1 x USB-A 3.2, 2 x USB-C 3.2, MicroSD card slot (SD 3.0), Headphone jack, Kensington Naon security slot | Drive capacity: 128GB | Battery life: 6 hours as tested
Lenovo has been making some of the best affordable Chromebooks you can buy for several years now, and its 2023 IdeaPad Flex 5i is an affordable laptop that provides just about everything you could want in a basic Chromebook. The 14-inch, 1,920 x 1,200 touchscreen is both larger and taller than last year’s model. This means you get more vertical screen real estate, which is something I appreciate over a standard 1080p display. This Lenovo Chromebook hits the Chromebook Plus recommended specs with a 13th-generation Intel Core i3 processor plus 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. That’s a bump up from the 11th-generation processor in last year’s model, and the RAM and storage should be plenty.
Unfortunately, the battery life is fairly mediocre — I got about six hours of regular use out of it. My workflow includes a ton of Chrome tabs, plus web apps for things like Slack, Todoist, Trello, Google Keep and YouTube Music. I usually take a few video calls during the day, so if you’re not on camera much you might get a bit more time from the laptop. I wish it lasted longer, but I can’t knock it too much considering the Flex 5i’s price.
The backlit keyboard and trackpad are very good and feel much better than I’d expect on a fairly affordable machine. The keys have nice travel and the trackpad is large and responsive. Despite the fact that it has a 1080p webcam, I can’t say that I looked all that great in the video calls I took. It does the job, but not much more.
Other things in the Flex 5i’s favor include both USB-C and USB-A ports, a microSD card slot and a security lock. At 3.5 pounds and 0.78 inches thick, it’s definitely not the lightest or slimmest option out there. It’s a utilitarian slab of a laptop, but that’s OK. Finally, the Flex 5i will receive software and security updates until June of 2032, so you can buy this computer and have it covered for years to come.
For me, the $500 Ideapad Flex 5i is the ideal Chromebook. It’ll hit the sweet spot for a lot of buyers out there, providing a level of quality and performance that’s pretty rare to find at this price point.
Screen size: 14 inches | Screen resolution: 1,980 x 1,200 | Installed memory: 8GB | Weight: 3.02 lbs | Available ports: 1 x USB-A 3.2, 2 x USB-C / Thunderbolt, HDMI, Headphone jack | Drive capacity: 256GB | Battery life: 7.5 hours as tested
Acer’s Chromebook Spin 714 has long been one of the best premium Chromebook options out there, and the current model is no exception.
The Spin 714 features a 14-inch, 1,920 x 1,200 touchscreen. Like the screen on Lenovo’s model, this works out to a taller 16:10 aspect ratio than you’ll get from the 1080p panels on most laptops. I’m a big fan of taller laptop screens, and while this isn’t as luxurious as the few 3:2 ratio Chromebooks on the market, it’s still a comfortable and high quality screen. It’s also a little bit brighter than the screen on the Lenovo (340 nits vs. 300).
One noteworthy feature is the 2K webcam included in the Spin 714. In a world where we’re all doing more video calls than we’d like, having a camera that doesn’t reduce you to a blurry spot is definitely appreciated. It’s a far better camera than the one on our top pick.
As for the rest of the hardware, the Spin 714 bests the Lenovo in a few ways. It features a 13th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, along with 8GB and 256GB of storage. It also has better battery life in my testing — I typically got about 7 and a half hours when using it. That’s not exceptional, but it’s in line with what I’ve seen on other i5-powered Chromebooks.
Just as the name suggests, the Spin 714 has a 360-degree hinge which lets you use the laptop in tablet mode. I’m not a fan of this convertible design – I don’t know who wants to use a 3-plus pound tablet, but it’s there if you need it.
The latest Spin 714 costs $700 – not an unreasonable price for a computer with these specs and built quality. If you’re a serious multitasker, want a better display and keyboard, or just want a computer that’ll last as long as possible, the Acer Spin 714 is easy to recommend.
Acer introduced the Chromebook 516 GE in the fall of 2022 as part of Google’s push to make devices suitable for cloud gaming, but you don’t need to be a gamer to appreciate this laptop. For $650, you’ll get a 16-inch display with a 2,560 x 1,600 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. NVIDIA’s GeForce Now gaming service supports up to 4K visuals at 120Hz on its Ultimate tier so you’ll get to see those benefits. This laptop also supports Steam, yet another reason gamers might be interested in trying it. But even non-gamers should enjoy the 516 GE’s crisp and clear screen and refined hardware.
It also includes Intel’s 12th-gen Core i7 1240P processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Given the laptop’s size, it’s good that Acer didn’t skimp on ports here: there’s an HDMI port, USB-C, USB-A, ethernet and a headphone jack. The keyboard has gamer-friendly LED lights that you can customize, but more importantly, it’s just a solid and comfortable keyboard for playing games or just typing up reports. The trackpad is large and responsive as well.
The 516 GE only weighs 3.75 pounds too – pretty light for a laptop with a 16-inch screen. Between the powerful hardware, solid design, good trackpad and keyboard and great screen, anyone who wants a bigger Chromebook will likely be happy with this model. As for support, Google says the 516 GE will continue receiving updates until June of 2032.
Pros
Large, high-resolution screen with a fast refresh rate
Nvidia has been slowly launching its Super refreshes of the RTX 4000-series of graphics cards, updated versions with much-improved performance. And, according to a new rumor, the mid-range models might also be getting its own refresh.
There has been an alleged leak of plans for refreshed versions of RTX 4060, 4060 Ti, and 4070 graphics cards, which was revealed by Twitter/X user Zed__Wang and reported on by PCGamesN. Thanks to the table, we know the three brand-new dies for the cards as well as the release windows: March 2024 for the RTX 4070 and April 2024 for both the RTX 4060 and 4060 Ti.
(Image credit: Zed__Wang)
While details for these newer versions are sparse, we normally could assume that a larger die comes with superior memory bandwidth, VRAM capacity, and performance. However, according to the same leaker, this is not the case.
When asked about the spec difference between the original and the refreshed GPUs, they responded “only change the chip; the spec keeps the same.” It seems like, at most, we might see a few additional CUDA, RT, and Tensor cores but that’s all.
These mid-range refreshes could be a dud
If this leak is to be believed, then this refresh sounds like a whole lot of nothing. If the broader specs aren’t even being upgraded, then what’s even the point of releasing them in the first place? The only way it would make sense is if the new cards were cheaper than the basic versions.
One good thing about the Super series that have previously launched is that it’s already been lowering the prices of AMD’s RDNA 3 graphics cards, going by the dropping prices of the AMD Radeon RX 7700 XT and the RX 7900 XT once the RTX 4080 Super, 4070 Ti Super, and RTX 4070 Super hit retailers. So if these newer mid-range cards end up launching, then that could mean the matching AMD cards could also see a price decrease.
It’s rather sad that these are the only positives of getting RTX 4060, 4060 Ti, and 4070 refreshes if the rumors are actually true. Here’s hoping that if Nvidia does decide to release them, they’ll be worth investing in.
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After launching the Galaxy A35 and the Galaxy A55, Samsung is preparing for the launch of two new Galaxy M series phones. One of those phones has as much RAM as Samsung’s current flagship phone, the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
It is the Galaxy M55, and it will be launched in India alongside the Galaxy M15 5G.
Galaxy M55 to feature Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 and 12GB RAM
The Galaxy M55 could be launched in India soon, and it has 12GB of RAM, according to tipster Mukul Sharma. That is as much RAM as the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the recently launched Galaxy A55. He has also confirmed that the Galaxy M55 has a Snapdragon chip. According to previous reports, the mid-ranger will come equipped with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor, which is more powerful than the Snapdragon 778G. This chip is as powerful as the Exynos 1480.
The phone will be available in Black and Sky Blue colors. It will also come in an 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant. The Galaxy M55 will run Android 14 out of the box and may get a promise of four major Android OS updates. It will be powered by a 5,000mAh battery and have 45W fast charging. It will be Samsung’s first non-flagship phone to have 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0.
The tipster revealed that the Galaxy M55 is quite slim. It has three cameras on the rear. Since the leaked images showcase that it doesn’t have a side-mounted fingerprint reader, it may have an in-display fingerprint reader. It may also feature a 6.6-inch or bigger screen with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
The phone may run Android 14-based One UI 6.1 out of the box, and you can watch One UI 6.1 features in our in-depth video below.
A virtual private network, or VPN, is the go-to tool for millions around the world who use its privacy and security features to safeguard their data and their devices from snooping bad actors and cybercriminals. By hiding your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, the best VPNs anonymize you on the internet and make it impossible for hackers, ISPs, and government authorities to track your online activities.
Getting a free VPN is often the first thought of those new to VPNs who would like to get to know the service and ascertain whether or not they need a VPN for their iPhone in the first place. While a free service is great for trial purposes—and some of the best ones come with unlimited data, tens of servers, and even unblocking capabilities—they are still miles behind their premium counterparts.
Additionally, the chances of a free VPN logging and selling your data or infesting your device with malware are a lot higher than if you just got the cheapest VPN on the market. However, there are some reliable free VPN providers as well that you can install on your iPhone right now and enjoy basic protection along with plenty of extra useful features. Read on to find out what they are, what purposes they serve, and if a free VPN is going to cut it for you.
Best VPNs for iOS in 2024 – paid for services
Even the best free VPNs are limited in their offerings—because they want to entice you with upgrades so that you ultimately switch to a paid plan for more benefits. Considering this, and given that you would actually need one of the best VPNs for iPhone if you are serious about protecting your device and your digital privacy, it makes so much more sense to sign up for a premium service from day one.
The best part is that you can get a paid-for VPN service for free by using its money-back guarantee. These are usually around 30 days, meaning you will have ample time to try out the service without putting any money on the line. Plus, ‘premium’ VPNs are premium in their offerings and not necessarily their pricing—you can get one of the best cheap VPNs for less than $3 a month!
On that note, here are my top three iOS VPN recommendations:
Best free VPNs for iPhone in 2024
Let’s discuss all our top free iPhone VPN picks in detail:
PrivadoVPN Free: the best free iPhone VPN overall
(Image credit: PrivadoVPN)
The best free iPhone VPN
Specifications
Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux
Data limit: 10GB at full speed, then unlimited via a single 1Mbps location
Servers: 13
Locations: 10
Simultaneous connections: 1
Reasons to buy
+
Unlimited data, with 10GB at full speed
+
Unblocks all popular streaming sites
+
Blazing fast connection speeds
Reasons to avoid
–
Mobile apps are basic at best
–
Not independently audited
Subscribe if:
✔️ You want a free VPN for Netflix: PrivadoVPN is one of the only free providers that reliably unlocks Netflix, as well as others like Prime, iPlayer, and Disney+
✔️ You need premium privacy features: most services block offerings like split tunneling, kill switch, and auto-connect behind paywalls, but not PrivadoVPN.
✔️ You want blazing speeds: PrivadoVPN is one of the fastest free VPNs, with top speeds of around 350Mbps.
Don’t subscribe if:
❌ You need genuinely unlimited data: PrivadoVPN’s performance sees a massive drop as soon as you go over 10GB a month. After that, you’re on a sluggish ’emergency server.’
❌ You want fantastic mobile apps: althoughPrivadoVPN’s iOS and Android apps are stable and work well, they’re not as polished as Proton VPN.
Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔒 PrivadoVPN Free knocks it out of the park with its unblocking capabilities, and everything else from server locations to day-to-day privacy is top-notch as well.
Want to know more?
Check out our in-depth PrivadoVPN Free review for a closer look at the service, and see why it’s our top free iPhone VPN pick for 2024.
In our full PrivadoVPN review, we mention how despite being a relatively new entrant in the VPN industry (launched in 2019), PrivadoVPN has continually improved and added to its services to become a well-known provider—and its free version is right at the heart of its popularity with an impressive feature-set and security benefits.
PrivadoVPN Free is not only the number one free VPN for iPhones but also the best free VPN overall, displacing the previous #1 Proton VPN, as it is one of the only services that can reliably unblock the entire suite of streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer—others like Windscribe and Atlas VPN Free can bypass some but not all of them.
Plus, Privado’s server list is significantly better than Proton VPN—you get access to 13 cities in 10 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and France. Proton VPN, on the other hand, only offers 3 servers in 3 different countries.
Like Proton VPN, PrivadoVPN Free, too, gives you the full security package, ranging from a tried-and-tested kill switch and no-logs policy to AES-256 encryption and protocols like OpenSource and WireGuard. What’s more, it also comes with split tunneling, so you can route some apps through the VPN while using regular internet connection on the others.
Where PrivadoVPN isn’t as lovely as Proton VPN is data allowance. While Proton VPN Free gives you unlimited data, PrivadoVPN (like most free VPNs) limits you to just 10GB of data per month. However, the silver lining with PrivadoVPN is that you won’t have to shut shop after you’ve used up your allotted 10GB for the month—you can continue browsing and enjoy VPN protection, although only at a sluggish speed of 1Mbps.
Next, while all Proton VPN services are independently audited, PrivadoVPN’s servers and privacy policy are yet to undergo an independent audit. Although the service is extremely reliable, we’d like to see the company back up its claims with proof.
PrivadoVPN iOS apps are pretty basic but easy to use, so those new to VPNs and looking for a plug-and-play solution will swear by it. However, if you need a premium iPhone VPN app for free, we’d point you towards Proton VPN.
Overall, PrivadoVPN does almost everything right when it comes to offering a completely free VPN—it’s fast, secure, comes with tons of servers, and is the best choice if you want a Netflix VPN for free. So, while it is a clear winner for most users, if you want unlimited data and proven security, consider Proton VPN Free instead.
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PrivadoVPN Free test results:
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
No-nonsense design that lacks a few bells and whistles
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Intuitive app with simple implementation means it’s perfect for beginners
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance
Faster than most free iPhone VPNs
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unblocking
Unblocks an astounding amount of content for a free VPN
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacy
Robust security on paper, but no independent audit
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer support
Support staff are friendly, but the site could do with more content
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Proton VPN Free: the best for security
(Image credit: Proton VPN)
Unlimited data allowance and top-notch digital privacy
Specifications
Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux
Data limit: Unlimited
Servers: 3
Locations: 3
Simultaneous connections: 1
Reasons to buy
+
Unlimited data allowance
+
Excellent speeds
+
Top-notch privacy features
Reasons to avoid
–
No streaming support
–
No P2P or Secure Core servers
–
Limited server locations
Subscribe if:
✔️ You need a free VPN with unlimited data: Proton VPN is one of the only free providers to not put a cap on data usage.
✔️ You want an extremely safe VPN: all Proton VPN apps are open-source, so anyone in the world can check them for vulnerabilities. They’re also independently audited.
✔️ You want a free Linux VPN: Proton VPN not only offers free installation on Linux but also comes with a full graphical user interface (GUI).
Don’t subscribe if:
❌ You want lots of server options: Proton VPN only gives users access to servers in three countries on its free plan.
❌ You want to stream content: unlike PrivadoVPN, Proton VPN’s free plan doesn’t come with unblocking capabilities.
Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
🔒 Proton VPN Freeis a highly popular Swiss provider known to offer class-leading privacy and security. It blows others out of the water with unlimited data, but lack of streaming support keeps it from the top spot.
Want to know more?
Check out our in-depth Proton VPN Free review for a closer look at one of the most popular free VPNs in the industry.
Proton VPN is one of the most secure VPNs on the market right now and the same Swiss-backed privacy and reliability is what you get with its free plan as well. For starters, it offers open-source apps on all platforms whether that’s iOS, Android, Windows, or Mac.
Plus, all its apps have been independently audited by third-party experts—and security essentials like rock-solid encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logging policy, too, are all available on all its free apps, including the iPhone VPN app, and they work as expected.
In our review of Proton VPN Free, we mention how its biggest advantage over PrivadoVPN Free and the rest of the competition is that it doesn’t come with any data limits.
So, while PrivadoVPN limits you to just 10GB of data per month, Proton VPN allows you to use its always-on VPN feature for what it’s actually built i.e. connect once and enjoy 24/7 protection—you don’t have to keep tabs on your VPN usage so as not to exhaust it. Moreover, the service is anything but sluggish, with lightning-fast speeds of 380Mbps.
The iPhone VPN app is easy to use and comes with a funky yet sleek-looking dark mode that gives it a futuristic look. Plus, as you’d expect from a high-ranking provider, the app has zero ads and the overall experience is simply fantastic, which is why it has managed to garner a 4.4 rating on the App Store.
A unique Proton VPN Free offering is that it has partnered with Deutsche Welle, a German news broadcaster, to allow unrestricted (and free, of course) access to its independent and unbiased news coverage.
A major reason Proton VPN didn’t quite manage to grab the top spot here is its server limitations—just 3 servers (US, Netherlands, Japan) compared to Privado’s 13 and Windscribe’s 14. Then there’s the lack of streaming support, an area where PrivadoVPN reigns supreme but even providers like Windscribe and Atlas VPN are slowly catching up.
So, needless to say, we would like to see Proton VPN Free join the party as well. Moreover, it doesn’t offer P2P support either, meaning you will have to look elsewhere if you want a VPN for torrenting.
All in all, if you’re looking for a free VPN for 24/7 protection, excellent usability, and class-leading security, there simply isn’t a service better than Proton VPN Free.
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Proton VPN Free test results:
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Dark and edgy with plenty of flair
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Not the simplest design, but still fairly intuitive
⭐⭐⭐
Performance
A super-fast service, but with a small risk of congestion
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unblocking
Dedicated Deutsche Welle servers but few locations to choose from otherwise
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacy
Open-source, audited, and reliable
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer support
Lots of on-site support and excellent agents
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Windscribe Free: free iPhone VPN with most servers
(Image credit: Windscribe)
Powerful and secure with generous streaming support
Specifications
Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Data limit: 10GB
Servers: 14
Locations: 11
Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
Reasons to buy
+
Unlimited simultaneous connections
+
Unblocks UK Netflix and BBC iPlayer
+
Free VPN with the most number of servers
Reasons to avoid
–
Limited data strangles usefulness
–
Not as fast as others
–
Only 10GB data
Subscribe if:
✔️ You want unlimited simultaneous connections: Windscribe is the only provider here that allows you to install its VPN app on any number of devices you want.
✔️ You want tons of server locations: 14 server locations in 11 countries is hands down the best range we’ve seen in a free iPhone VPN.
✔️ You want to stream UK content: unlike Proton VPN, Windscribe can reliably unblock UK Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
Don’t subscribe if:
❌ You need plenty of data: just 10GB of data isn’t going to carry you through the whole month. If you want unlimited data, opt for Proton VPN.
❌ You need lightning-fast speeds: Windscribe tops out at around 240Mbps, which although decent, doesn’t compare to PrivadoVPN or Proton VPN.
Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔒 Windscribeoffers the highest number of server locations for any free iPhone VPN, as well as UK Netflix and iPlayer unblocking, so it does a good enough job at standing out from the rest.
Windscribe is a popular VPN service from Canada with a decent paid version. However, the party piece is its free plan that comes with good privacy, excellent unblocking, and useful extra features.
When drafting our full Winscribe Free review, we were seriously impressed by its staggering 14 server locations in 11 countries—an excellent showing that’s better than every other provider on our list. The only other service that comes close to challenging Windscribe Free’s list of servers is Proton VPN with 13 locations in 10 countries.
Although Windscribe’s streaming support isn’t as comprehensive as PrivadoVPN, most users will be happy that it can unblock UK Netflix and BBC iPlayer. You will be able to stream your favorite British movies and TV shows on your iPhone, even when you’re on the go, thanks to consistent speeds of around 240Mbps.
However, a major drawback of the service, and also why it is not higher up on our list, is its data cap—just 10GB of data per month and nothing after that. If you’re looking for a free VPN to use extensively day in and day out, you’d be much better off with Proton VPN or Hotspot Shield which come with unlimited data. Even PrivadoVPN Free, which offers 10GB data at full speed and then unlimited data at 1Mbps speed, is a better pick.
Windscribe’s iOS apps could do with a bit of polish. That said, while they look and feel basic, they don’t cut back on functionality a lot—yes, you won’t see server locations by availability, but there’s a search option, so it’s overall decent but far behind the more roomy and clutter-free apps of PrivadoVPN and Proton VPN.
To conclude, Windscribe is a simple and effective free VPN that has more than just a few things going for it, including unlimited simultaneous connections, top-notch privacy, and an expansive list of servers. Unfortunately, though, a strict data cap limits its functionality to a great extent, so that’s something you will have to live with—or you can look at our top 2 options instead.
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Windscribe Free test results:
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Simple and intuitive, albeit a little cluttered
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Pretty easy to use for beginners
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance
Lags behind the competition, but still hardly slow
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unblocking
Impressive access to UK Netflix and iPlayer
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacy
Open-source and reliable
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer support
Email tickets are quickly resolved, but no live chat makes it somewhat inconvenient
⭐⭐⭐
Hotspot Shield Basic: free iPhone VPN with unlimited data
(Image credit: Hotspot Shield)
Absolutely no data limits, but look out for the ads
Specifications
Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux
Data limit: Unlimited
Servers: 1
Locations: 1
Simultaneous connections: 1
Reasons to buy
+
Unlimited data allowance
+
Simple and easy to use
+
Decent speeds
Reasons to avoid
–
Ads and popup pages
–
Only 1 server location
–
No kill switch
Subscribe if:
✔️ You need an unlimited free VPN: Hotspot Shield Basic doesn’t impose any data caps, making it ideal for anyone who needs more than 10GB.
✔️ You want speedy connections: unlike PrivadoVPN, Hotspot Shield providers fast connection speeds through and through, no matter your usage.
Don’t subscribe if:
❌ You want more than one server location: you get access t just one US server with Hotspot Shield’s free plan. For plenty of locations, PrivadoVPN or Windscribe are better picks.
❌ You need reliable security: unlike most free services, Hotspot Shield Basic doesn’t come with a kill switch, plus it logs a lot of user data.
Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐
🔒 Hotspot Shield Basicoffers a decent service with unlimited data as the one major highlight. Apart from that, the rest of the VPN suite doesn’t come close to the others.
Hotspot Shield Basic might not be as comprehensive as the three providers above but it is still free and offers a few but very likable features. This is also true for the paid Hotspot Shield package, which is decent but lags behind the competition.
As we concluded in our full Hotspot Shield VPN review, its biggest advantage is that it comes with unlimited data—so, you can scroll TikTok, watch high-definition YouTube videos, and/or send large files on your iPhone without worrying about exhausting your data.
This puts it right beside Proton VPN Free and above the rest of the competition which all offer limited data. Additionally, with a decent speed of 230Mbps, buffering won’t be much of an issue either.
However, that’s all there is to Hotspot Shield Basic, unfortunately. This is because it offers only a single US server and logs a surprising amount of user data as compared to its rivals—and contrary to what you would expect from a privacy tool. Logged data includes bandwidth used, your OS, the time you connect, and more.
In addition to the absence of an indispensable kill switch, the iOS apps show pesky video ads on connecting, and while the Mac VPN apps don’t, they instead insist that you open the Hotspot Shield website every time you connect/disconnect the VPN. What’s more, there’s also no live chat or email support, meaning the Hotspot Shield website and your browsing skills are all you have should you run into an issue.
Overall, Hotspot Shield Basic pulls back a few punches when it comes to security, user experience, and features, but it makes a strong case for itself by offering unlimited data. However, it’s difficult to recommend it over Proton VPN Free, though, which also offers unlimited data but is head and shoulders above Hotspot Shield in everything else.
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Hotspot Shield Basic test results:
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
A clean and simple design
⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Intuitive apps that are easy to use but contain ads
⭐⭐⭐
Performance
Decent speeds, but nothing spectacular considering Hotspot Shield’s claims
⭐⭐⭐
Unblocking
Mediocre unblocking capabilities
⭐⭐
Security and privacy
Lacking a kill switch is a serious problem
⭐⭐
Customer support
No live chat or email support is disappointing
⭐⭐
Atlas VPN Free: the best free VPN for Mac users
(Image credit: Atlas VPN)
Speedy and secure with a big bonus for Mac users
Specifications
Available on: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Data limit: 10GB per month (2GB per day for Mac)
Servers: 3
Locations: 2
Simultaneous connections: 2
Reasons to buy
+
10GB data per month
+
Excellent connection speeds
+
Unblocks Disney Plus
Reasons to avoid
–
Only 3 servers
–
No split tunneling or port forwarding
Subscribe if:
✔️ You want free Disney+ VPN: although Atlas VPN’s unblocking capabilities are limited, it reliably unblocked Disney Plus in our latest round of testing.
✔️ You need a free Mac VPN: Atlas VPN offers 10GB of data for every other device but Mac users get a jaw-dropping 2GB per day.
✔️ You want blazing speeds: clocking in at around 320Mbps, Atlas VPN is among the fastest free VPNs.
Don’t subscribe if:
❌ You need an unlimited free VPN: like most other free services, Atlas VPN comes with a 10GB per month data cap as well.
❌ You want a generous list of servers: Atlas VPN’s free plan gives you access to just three servers, far behind the likes of PrivadoVPN and Windscribe.
Bottom line ⭐⭐⭐½
🔒 Atlas VPN is a lightning-fast and relatively secure free iPhone VPN that’s a delight for Disney+ fans, but Mac users are likely to enjoy it the most.
Want to know more?
Check out our in-depth Atlas VPN Free review for a closer look at this popular free VPN.
Atlas VPN was recently acquired by Nord Security, the company that also owns NordVPN and Surfshark, so you can rest assured that you will get a robust and secure service across the board, thanks to a reliable kill switch and quality encryption.
In our Atlas VPN Free review, we found that it offers a fantastic freemium plan with a decent data allowance of 10GB a month – but if you’re a Mac user, you will get a whopping 2GB per day. However, unlike Proton VPN’s free plan, Atlas VPN Free doesn’t offer strapped data speeds, so once you exhaust your data limit, you will have to wait until the next month to get cracking with Atlas VPN again.
Atlas VPN mobile VPN apps aren’t as smooth and slick as the rivals, but they’re still quite simple and stable, so newbies will appreciate it for its no-nonsense design. Also, its iPhone VPN app has been audited, and while the company as a whole has yet to undergo any external checking, we are confident about its reliability and security.
The free plan comes with three servers—two in the US and one in the Netherlands. While this is a decent offering and on par with Proton VPN, it is nowhere close to PrivadoVPN Free or Windscribe which offer 13 and 14 server locations, respectively.
Atlas VPN Free is one of the very fastest free VPNs, with top speeds of around 320Mbps in our latest rounds of testing. Although its unblocking capabilities are limited (it only reliably unblocks Disney+), the fact that it can bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services in the first place is a major advantage, making it better than Windscribe and Hotspot Shield that offer none at all.
All in all, Atlas VPN Free is a quality service with excellent security and decent unblocking, but we feel it’s a much more compelling pick for Mac users who would relish the 2GB per day data allowance.
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Atlas VPN Free test results:
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Basic and generally underwhelming
⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Some usability problems and an awkward design
⭐⭐⭐
Performance
Decent speeds on offer
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unblocking
Pretty good considering it’s a free plan
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Security and privacy
About industry standard, but not many features
⭐⭐⭐
Customer support
Decent website content but no live chat
⭐⭐⭐
How to pick a free VPN for iPhone
Here are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best free VPN for your iPhone:
Security: not all free VPNs are created equal and some low-ranking and unscrupulous providers can log your data and sell it to third parties for a profit. This is why it is crucial to only pick providers with a clear-cut no-logs policy, a reliable kill switch, and strong encryption—and it’s good to have extras such as split tunneling and port forwarding as well.
Number of servers: look for a VPN that offers a generous amount of servers in several countries on its free plan. In particular, prioritize those that have servers in regions of your choice, as free VPNs are often limited in this regard.
Speed: while you certainly cannot expect a free VPN to compete with the fastest VPNs, connections should be both consistent and speedy enough for most activities whether that’s everyday browsing or streaming in HD.
Bandwidth: one of the major considerations when shopping for a free VPN is the amount of data you get. If you want unlimited data, providers such as Proton VPN Free and Hotspot Shield Basic will be ideal choices.
Unblocking capabilities: very few free VPN services can reliably unblock streaming sites. If you want to watch foreign movies and TV shows for free, you’d be better off with PrivadoVPN, Windscribe, and Atlas VPN, in that order.
How we test free iPhone VPNs
We follow our comprehensive VPN testing methodology to cut through the myriad of options on the market and zero in on only the best free iPhone VPNs. Our testing starts at the provider’s website where we look for clues to gauge how reliable the service is. This includes looking for and thoroughly reading the VPN’s privacy policy, any claims it makes, and its support options.
Then we install the provider’s free VPN apps on various platforms (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux) and put them through intensive real-world testing where we check the working of essential security features such as kill switch and leak protection—as well as any other feature on offer, such as split tunneling and/or auto-connect.
User experience is a big one for us, so we check the apps for any ads, clutter, and design shortfalls. Then we try to connect/disconnect to every single server location on offer by the free VPN to evaluate if the service lives up to its claims.
Next, we test the VPN’s speeds at least 120 times by using a US home connection and a 1Gbps UK data center. Lastly, to check the truthfulness of free VPNs that claim to unblock streaming sites, we try to access geo-blocked content from big-name streaming sites including Netflix, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.
FAQs
Can a free VPN for iPhone be trusted?
The best free VPNs for iPhone on my list here have been selected after hours of real-world testing by experts, meaning you can trust them to keep your internet connection secure, private, and anonymous.
However, the market is filled to the brim with unscrupulous VPN providers that claim to be free—and they do not actually cost a penny—but you pay for them with your privacy, as they may log your device/personal/browsing data to then sell it to third parties for profit.
Also, some free services are outright dangerous as they may be Trojan horses for malicious software, and downloading them may infect your device with malware. All in all, while the majority of free iPhone VPNs are better looked at with suspicion, if you’re picking one from TechRadar’s free VPN guides, you can rest assured that it is a reliable and safe VPN.
Is there a totally free VPN for iPhone?
PrivadoVPN, Proton VPN, Windscribe, Hotspot Shield, and Atlas VPN are some of the most trustworthy providers that offer completely free VPN apps for iPhone. You can use their free plan for as long as you want. They do not cost a single penny—and they don’t ask for your credit card details, either.
What is the safest VPN for iPhone?
NordVPN is the most secure VPN overall and right now the safest VPN you can install on your iPhone. In addition to security essentials like 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and support for secure VPN protocols, Nord also comes with Double VPN (that routes your connection through two separate VPN servers) and Onion over VPN (so you can access the Tor network without having to download the Tor browser).
Additionally, all of its VPN apps, including the iOS app, come with built-in ad-blocking, malware protection, a password manager, as well as a data breach scanner for an added layer of security. Other safe iPhone VPNs include ExpressVPN, Proton VPN, and Private Internet Access (PIA).
Do iPhones have a built in VPN?
The iPhone does not have a built-in VPN. It only comes with VPN settings that help you control a VPN which you either build manually (not an option for most users) or directly install on your device from a third party such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Alabama face off against Charleston in what promises to be a thriller in this First Round game at March Madness 2024 The match is at the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena in Spokane, Washington, and tips off on Friday, March 22. Below we have all the information you’ll need on how to watch the Alabama vs Charleston live stream from anywhere.
Alabama vs Charleston TV and streaming info.
Alabama vs Charleston is on TruTV in the US. Tip-off is 7.35pm ET / 11.35pm GMT on March 22.
Alabama’s season has been marked by high-scoring performances. Their explosive offense averages an impressive 90.8 points per game, making them one of the most potent units in the nation. Mark Sears, Aaron Estrada, Grant Nelson, and Rylan Griffen are key players in this offensive onslaught. Sears, in particular, with his 50.4% field goal accuracy, is a force to be reckoned with.
Charleston, the No. 13 seed, enter the matchup with a respectable 27-7 record. Their offensive output, averages 80.5 points per game. While they may not be favored, the Cougars have a history of causing upsets.
Watch Alabama vs Charleston live streams in the US
Alabama vs Charleston is on TruTV. If you don’t already have TruTV with your cable package, here are your best options…
Watch an Alabama vs Charleston live stream worldwide
Sky Sports has the rights to March Madness 2024 in the UK but has not announced its schedule of matches yet. It doesn’t appear that Sky will be broadcasting anything even close to all of the games but it’s worth noting that Sky does have an NCAA basketball show at the same time as Alabama vs Charleston, so there’s a good chance you’ll see some action.
To watch March Madness 2024 in Canada it’s TSN and Bell Media. TSN Plus gets you all of the First Four but the schedule is unconfirmed for the rest of the tournament with many games likely to appear on the TSN cable channels instead.
For Australian basketball fansFoxtel and Kayo are your go-to platforms for March Madness with games courtesy of ESPN. Kayo Sports starts at $25 per month with the benefit of a 7-day free trial.
Get the hottest deals available in your inbox plus news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more from the TechRadar team.
Watch an Alabama vs Charleston live stream from anywhere
Geo-blocking makes it tricky to watch an Alabama vs Charleston live stream from anywhere when you’re away from home but you can get round that problem with a VPN. A VPN can make it appear as if you’re in any country you choose.
That means you can watch your free live stream from anywhere, and there’s a great deal with one of the best VPNs just in time for March Madness…
There’s been a sea change in the gaming monitor market: Endgame OLED has arrived. The first-generation Quantum Dot OLED panels which superseded the fast, colourful, high-contrast, original OLED panels, have evolved into ultimate gaming displays that fix the foibles of the first generation while taking colours and contrast to the next level.
These new QD-OLED monitors are faster, brighter, display better text and, thanks to MSI QD-OLED, come with peace of mind against the dreaded image burn-in which blighted the technology. In short, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your display.
MSI’s expansive new QD-OLED gaming monitor range has models to suit all gamers – whether they demand the fastest screens, the highest-resolutions or largest displays – and all of them come with MSI’s new, bespoke, anti-burn-in technology plus a three-year warranty that backs it up.
Meet MSI’s latest and greatest QD-OLED gaming monitors
A great monitor all starts with a great display, and MSI QD-OLED’s offer the best performance you can get for PC and console gaming right now., that use a special graphene film to help heat dissipation and facilitate a noise-free, fan-less design, and all come with MSI’s warranty-backed OLED Care 2.0 technology to fend-off burn-in.
To maximise gaming performance there’s Adaptive Sync technology to prevent image tearing. MSI’s QD-OLEDs support the VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 high-contrast rating and designers will love that they can display 99 per cent of the tricky DCI-P3 colour gamut thanks to MSI’s QD Premium Colour technology (to a Delta E≤2) standard. FPS players will like the superimposed Smart Crosshair (which includes Sniper mode) to boost aiming accuracy. All gamers will love the rapid 0.03ms GTG pixel response time which marries with fast refresh rates to banish blur; plus MSI’s Gaming Intelligence App to access every setting via Windows. All have USB-A and (DisplayPort compatible) USB-C ports for KVM functionality.
(Image credit: MSI)
Even console gamers are catered for thanks to HDMI 2.1 ports that support 120Hz refresh rates and image enhancement technologies like VRR and ALLM to prevent image tearing.
Which is the right MSI QD-OLED monitor for you?
There are four main flavours within MSI’s next-gen QD-OLED gaming monitor range:
Blistering Speed!
(Image credit: MSI)
First up is the MSIMPG 271QRX QD-OLED. This 27-inch, flat-screen, 1,440p, 16:9 monitor is perfect for fast-and-frantic gamers who require ultimate pixel performance. The bright, colourful and high-contrast display has a 360Hz refresh rate which marries with the crazy-fast 0.03ms pixel response time to render, even the fastest moving objects, buttery smooth.
It also has a small, stable stand which pro players can get right up close to and its generous height, pivot, swivel and tilt adjustments mean you can tailor your positioning, just so. If your need for speed approaches greed, this is the model for you. Own the show for $1,799.
Furiously Fast 4K
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If you want more screen real estate, both in terms of resolution and physical inches, then check out the MSIMPG 321URX QD-OLED. This 32-inch behemoth’s 16:9, flat-screen display is perfect for gamers who need to see as much as possible, all at once. It has a UHD, 4K, 3,840 x 2,160 resolution that will enable you to see opponents coming from any direction or plan your attack with the best view of the lay of the land. There’s very little compromise in speed, too as it still offers an incredibly fast 240Hz refresh rate. Find it for $2,199.
Big n’ Curvy
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The 34-inch MSI MAG 341CQP QD-OLED is the choice to make if you want a curved gaming monitor (rated 1800R). These monitors are great if you want to reduce eye fatigue as your eyeball needn’t refocus as it pans across the screen. That’s particularly useful when you’re gaming for long periods, whatever the genre.
The ultra-wide, 21:9 format, high-resolution, 3,440 x 1,440 display has a fast, 175Hz refresh rate meaning it’s particularly perfect for flight sim and sim-racing games – it’s like looking out of a cockpit. The fast performance and plentiful real estate means you can clearly see rival drivers and hit those apexes perfectly when racing while the bright colours and impeccable contrast make flight sims even more realistic. It even has height, swivel and tilt adjustments. Get it exclusively at JB Hi-Fi for $1,999.
Go Wide, Really Wide
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The MSI MPG 491CQP QD-OLED gaming monitor (with a whopping 32:9 aspect ratio) is for those who want total immersion and an outlook that even caters to your peripheral vision. This curved (1800R) beast has a whopping 49-inch diagonal and this, coupled with the enormous 5,120 x 1,440 resolution, means you can see everything ahead of you, all at the same time.
It’s got a speedy 144Hz refresh rate meaning, whether you’re racing, flying, owning, or adventuring, the MPG 491CQP is the ultimate choice for immersing yourself in the latest and greatest, eye-candy rich games. It’s available now for a cheaper-than-rivals price of $1,999.
(Image credit: MSI)
So, whichever MSI QD-OLED gaming monitor tickles your fancy, upgrade to an ultimate gaming (and creator) visual experience today and be rewarded, not just by a phenomenal, endgame OLED gaming monitor and a peace-of-mind, anti-burn-in, three-year warranty, but a US$100 Steam voucher too! Click here for more details.
Spring is officially here and if you’ve been itching to get back outside for a run, or you want to start a new workout regimen, the Amazon Big Spring Sale might have just what you need to upgrade the music portion of your routine. A number of Jabra earbuds have been discounted for the sale, including a couple of our top picks for the best headphones for running. Key among them is the Jabra Elite 8 Active, which is on sale for $160 — only $10 more than its record-low price. The same sale price can be found direct at Jabra as well.
Jabra
Pick up one of our favorite headphones for running while they are down to a near record-low price.
These nearly bested the Beats Fit Pro for the top spot in our guide. Not only are the Elite 8 Active buds comfortable and secure when doing any kind of workout, but they’re also IP68-rated for dust and water resistance. Jabra also put these earbuds through military-grade testing to protect them from extreme humidity, high temperature, rain and altitude, so it’s fair to say these buds can take a beating (probably way more than what you’d put them through even during your sweatiest runs).
The Elite 8 Active have solid sound quality and ANC out of the box, but you can customize EQ settings using its companion mobile app. If you prefer bassy sounds to get you in the zone before a workout session, you can change the sound profile to accommodate that. They also support spatial sound with Dolby Audio, which is a great perk to have and it will make the Elite 8 Active an even better option for those who want just one pair of buds to use all day, every day, not only during workouts. Jabra’s HearThrough transparency mode is also handy, especially for runners who often train outside, since it lets some sound in so you can stay more aware of your surroundings.
Our biggest gripe with the Elite 8 Active buds is that HearThrough doesn’t sound quite as natural as the transparency mode on our top pick, the Beats Fit Pro. Otherwise, they’re a fantastic option for runners or anyone else who wants a solid pair of wireless earbuds that provide a complete package when it comes to sound quality, ANC and protection against sweat and the elements.
If you’re looking to spend even less, it’s hard to find a better value in Jabra’s lineup than the Elite 4 Active earbuds. Those are on sale for $90 right now — not a record low, but close to it. They’re our budget pick in the same guide thanks to their comfy, IP57-rated design, good sound quality and ANC, solid battery life and support for multipoint connectivity. And even though you don’t get spatial audio on the Elite 4 Active, they do support custom EQ with the Jabra mobile app.
