You can easily create 3D images from your 2D images using AI tools. No longer do you have to slave away rendering 3D shapes, these tools will let you enjoy quick and varied results.

Using generative AI, you can transform 2D images or text prompts into 3D images in Alpha 3D. Although it’s a freemium software, new users get their first 50 AI-generated 3D image credits for free.

Alpha 3D’s image generator is focused on augmented reality (AR). Once created, your AR 3D image could be used in Adobe Aero, one of Adobe’s free apps, for creating augmented reality scenes.

At the time of writing in June 2024, the 2D-to-3D-image model is only trained on limited image types. As such, only images of shoes or furniture can be rendered into 3D models. While this limitation holds you back from more explorative 3D images, we expect it to change in the future to accommodate more creative freedom. The text-to-3D-image model doesn’t have the same limitations.

This free browser-based app lets you transform your flat photos into 3D images with depth perception. The 3D images are not 3D models, they still look like photographs, but with dimension as opposed to a typical flat photo.

You can upload your own photo or use an image URL to upload. The quality of the dimensional edit depends on the photo and how easy it is for depth perception to be achieved. You can use your 3D photos as an embedded image on websites or download them for personal use anywhere.

For a free app, the results are pretty good and fun to try out, but they’re not professional-standard, by any means.

3 Tripo (Freemium)

Tripo adds dimension to your uploaded image, turning it into a great 3D rendering. You can upload your flat images in the form of PNG, JPEG, WEBP, and BMP, both photos or illustrated images. You can also upload by using a text prompt for your creation.

Free users are limited to 600 monthly credits which they can use for 3D image generation and refinements like rigging and stylizing. Professional subscriptions are from $19.90 per month and include 3000 credits. The Premium subscription is from $139.90 per month and receives 25000 monthly credits.

The free version of Tripo produces the same results as either of the paying subscriptions, and they are good quality and accurate.

Immersity AI not only produces 3D images from your 2D image uploads, but you can also create 3D motion videos and 3D videos from 2D images. Due to its neural depth engine, Immersity AI has a lot to offer.

After uploading an image, you get a variety of results. The initial result is 3D motion which comes with nine offerings of how the motion will move around your image. It’s subtle, and depending on your image, different animation options may yield better results.

You’re provided options for animation style, amount of motion, animation length, focus point, edge dilation, and depth map for you to edit your 3D motion image for the best output.

The 3D image provides fewer refinement options, but you can choose how to preview your 3D image, the amount of depth, focus point, edge dilation, and depth map. The results of the 2D image to 3D image are not as good as when turning a 2D image into 3D motion. Your results may vary depending on the image you upload.

New free users get 100 credits to use, but you can do a lot without even using any credits, such as outputting lower-quality downloads with watermarks on them. Once you’ve used the free credits, Immersity AI is a very affordable tool. You can purchase 500 credits for $5.00 or 1000 credits for $7.99.

5 Meshy (Freemium)

New Meshy users get 200 free monthly credits and 50% off a premium subscription. Premium subscriptions start from $8 per month for a Pro subscription, $24 per month for Max, and $48 per month for a Max Unlimited subscription.

Each 2D image to 3D image generation costs five credits with further iterations using more credits. Free users cannot access the AI texture editing tool, and free users can only have one project in the queue at a time.

For a free tool, my results were not very impressive. I uploaded a clear digital illustration with block color sections, but the 3D rendering is fuzzy and amalgamated, so the subject is barely recognizable.

The premium offerings for Meshy have options to edit your 3D rendering, thus providing better results.

Spline is a tool that allows for 3D vector rendering. You can create 3D subjects and scenes for use on website animations and interactions. It also has an AI 3D generator, which allows you to create 3D imagery quickly and then edit it using the tools available in Spline’s software, which can be accessed via the browser, or on apps for both Mac and Windows systems.

While Spline offers some free features within its software, its AI generator for 3D images is part of its premium Super package, from $24 per month.

With Spline’s AI 3D image generator, you can create a 3D image by uploading a 2D image or by using a text prompt to generate your 3D image. You can also upload a 2D image and then use a text prompt that incorporates the 2D image into your 3D rendering. There are a handful of other AI features within Spline’s tools, such as AI textures to apply to your image, AI generation remix for finding different image results, and AI style transfer.

Out of these 3D image generator tools, my favorite is Tripo for free tools or Spline for premium options. Spline’s history in creating 3D imagery holds it accountable as a more reliable tool. Tripo is a great tool for those with little to no experience in 3D rendering.

You can add these AI 3D image generators to the list of creative AI tools that are more than just chatbot answers, and making 3D creations from your 2D images is a cool way to use AI.

Fanfix is a website offering fans opportunities to see exclusive content from their favorite content creators. Some content is behind a paywall, similar to how other sites like Patreon and Ko-Fi work, and some of the content is available for free. Here are the basics of what Fanfix is and how to use the service.

What Is Fanfix?

Fanfix allows creators to set up profiles to share exclusive, non-explicit content. Some creators share their content for free, while others lock their content behind a paywall. Fanfix is like Patreon, another service that allows content creators to monetize exclusive content for their patrons.

If you’re looking to learn more about services like Patreon and Ko-Fi from a creator’s perspective, we’ve broken down the pros and cons.

Fanfix offers the option to follow creators for free and see limited posts or subscribe for a fee. Note that once you follow an account, Fanfix does not currently have the option to unfollow creators. As a subscriber, you can see exclusive posts, view creators’ Fanfix live streams, and even send messages to content creators you like.

If you’re a fan of a creator, you can go to the creator’s Fanfix page and subscribe for exclusive content for a set monthly amount. This amount varies, with some creators charging anywhere form $5 to $12 per month for access.

Alternatively, you can pay to unlock specific posts for a one-time fee that ranges from a couple bucks to $20.

There are options to like and comment on creators’ posts on Fanfix, as well. Followers and subscribers can also give tips to content creators via the website. Patreon currently does not have a way to tip creators, so this makes Fanfix stand out.

Because Fanfix is newer, its interface has some flaws. For example, you must have an account to search for creators on Fanfix. Patreon, however, allows you to search for creators without logging in.

Another major drawback is that Fanfix is only available via web browser, not via an app. Additionally, if you’re looking to support a smaller creator, creators with smaller followings than 10,000 across all platforms are not eligible for a creator account on Fanfix.

As of now, Fanfix only offers a flat rate for subscribers. This stands in stark comparison to Patreon, which offers different payment tiers of membership with potential incentives like personalized letters or merchandise for higher-paying subscribers. Some of your favorite creators might not be on Patreon, though, so Fanfix may be the best way to show your support.

How to Get Started With Fanfix

You can create an account by going to the website, Fanfix.io, and clicking the sign-up option. From there, you can search for content creators you’d like to follow or subscribe to. Fanfix allows users to subscribe to follow creators for free, but it is important to note that you must have a form of payment on file via the website to use the free follows.

Finally, if you’re a creator interested in joining Fanfix, you can submit an application through the website. Most notably, Fanfix requires creators to have a hefty 10,000 followers across all social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to qualify.

With options to subscribe to and message content creators and view Fanfix-only livestreams, you can stay up-to-date with your favorite content creators. Whether you’re looking to join Fanfix as a creator or to support other creators, Fanfix has a host of opportunities for more interaction and exclusive content.

Google released the first Android 15 beta in April 2024, and I’ve been using it on my Pixel 8 Pro since then. It’s not a massive update, but it’s hard to overlook some quality-of-life additions. Below, I’ll list my favorite Android 15 features so far.

1 App Archiving

My Pixel 8 Pro only has 128GB of internal storage, with even less usable space. Once I install all my essential and favorite Android apps, the available free space declines even further, leaving less room for all my media.

Due to this, I have to constantly uninstall apps I don’t use as frequently to free up space. However, the problem is that uninstalling such apps also removes all user data. So, the next time I reinstall the app from the Play Store, I have to set it up from scratch again.

This is where app archiving comes in. While the Play Store has an automatic app archiving feature, Android 15 adds it natively to the OS. So, I can manually archive an unwanted or unused app on my phone to free up space. Archiving will not remove the app or any associated user data from the phone; only selected portions are removed.

The best part is that the archived app’s shortcut is not removed from your phone but only grayed out with a download icon on it. When you tap it, Android 15 automatically downloads it from the Play Store. Once reinstalled, I can tap the shortcut again and start using the app like before—all without having to set it up again from scratch.

To manually archive an app in Android 15, long-press its shortcut and select App info. From the page that opens, choose Archive.

2 Private Space

I have several important and sensitive banking and authenticator apps installed on my phone that I want to keep away from prying eyes. Similarly, there are documents and pictures that I don’t want anyone else using my phone to access. This is where Android 15’s Private Space comes in. It’s similar to Secure Folder on Samsung phones.

As the name indicates, the feature creates a “private space” on my phone for all my important apps and documents. The best part about the feature is that you can log in with a separate Google account. Additionally, you can set up a different PIN or pattern than the one you currently use for your device for additional security.

Setting up a Private Space is easy. Navigate to Settings > Security & privacy > Private Space. Then, simply follow the on-screen instructions to set up the feature.

3 Partial Screen Recording

Google added native screen recording with Android 11, though Samsung and other smartphone manufacturers had implemented this feature in their Android skins years before that.

With Android 15, Google is improving screen recording by adding a per-app recording option. So, instead of capturing my entire screen, I can set the recorder to only to capture the contents of a single app.

This is a great privacy improvement, as I do not need to worry about unwanted notifications or other personal content showing up in my screen recordings. I didn’t expect partial screen recording to be a big deal, but I was surprised by its usefulness since I started using Android 15 on my Pixel 8 Pro.

To start a partial screen recording in Android 15, follow these steps:

1. Expand the Quick Settings panel on your phone and tap the Screen Record tile.
2. Select A single app from the dialog box that appears and tap Start recording. You’ll be prompted to choose the app you want to record.
3. When you select the app, a three-second timer will start in the status bar, after which the screen recording will start.

Incoming notifications, calls, and even your notification shade will not appear in the video when using partial screen recording.

4 Improved Bluetooth Toggle in Quick Settings

Android 15 improves the Bluetooth toggle in the Quick Settings panel by introducing a dialog box to control the paired devices. On Android 14, you can only toggle Bluetooth on or off through its Quick Settings tile. However, in Android 15, tapping the Bluetooth tile will bring up a dialog box showing the connected and paired devices you can quickly connect or disconnect from.

This might seem like a small change, but I frequently connect and disconnect several Bluetooth devices with my Pixel 8 Pro throughout the day. The Bluetooth dialog box speeds up the entire process and reduces unwanted taps.

Android 15 packs several usability improvements, but the above are a few that I have found most helpful in daily life. A lot of features are still only partially working or not fully implemented, so the experience should improve even further once the OS is ready for its public release.

With most gaming consoles offering digital and disc versions, choosing between them can be a real dilemma. For me, however, digital consoles have become the clear winner, and I’m fully committed to them going forward. Here are some reasons why.

1 Digital Consoles Are Less Expensive

As a gamer who’s always on the lookout for the best deals, the biggest perk of digital consoles for me is their price tag. They are usually $50 to $100 cheaper than their physical counterparts, primarily because they do not include a disc drive.

This can be a significant saving, especially for someone like me who prefers buying digital games over physical discs anyway. With those savings, I can grab a couple of AAA titles or purchase a gaming subscription for six months.

2 Purchasing Digital Games Is Quick and Easy

Not having a disc drive also means I can skip trips to the store every time I want to buy a new game. I don’t have to wait in lines or worry about whether the game I want is in stock. With a digital console, I can simply make the purchase online from the comfort of my couch and download the game immediately.

Not to mention the convenience of switching between games I own, since I don’t have to find and swap discs every time I want to play a different game. Of course, all of this is possible with a disc version console as well, but for me, that defeats the purpose of buying it in the first place.

3 They Are Less Bulky

Going digital also means I can take my console and game library wherever I want. Digital consoles are typically less bulky and lighter than their disc drive counterparts. This makes them more portable and easier to carry, whether I’m heading to a friend’s house, going on vacation, or moving between rooms in my own home.

Having a digital library also means I don’t need to carry around a collection of discs; all my games are stored on the console. This makes digital consoles ideal for a traveling gamer like me who prefers a more minimalist setup.

Having owned disc consoles in the past, I’ve experienced disc-related issues from time to time. Sometimes, it’s the disc drive making excessive noise, while other times, I’ve had to spend time removing a stuck disc from the console. Fixing these issues often requires patience and a delicate touch to avoid causing further damage.

I’ve also experienced moments when my console wouldn’t detect the game due to minor scratches on the disc. This meant either trying to clean and repair the disc or, in some cases, purchasing a new copy of the game.

Opting for a digital console relieves me of all these concerns. Without a disc drive, there are no mechanical parts that can malfunction or create noise. So, that’s one less thing I have to worry about.

5 They Are Better for the Environment

Lastly, digital consoles are also better for the environment. First, they eliminate the need for physical discs, effectively reducing the amount of plastic waste generated from their production and disposal. Furthermore, digital distribution lowers the carbon footprint associated with shipping physical games.

While digital games also have an environmental impact, it is significantly less than that of physical games. It’s a small step, but collectively, choosing digital consoles can significantly promote environmental sustainability.

So these are some of my primary reasons for choosing digital consoles in the future. The convenience, cost savings, and streamlined experience make digital consoles a perfect match for my gaming style. If you also prioritize these things as a gamer, buying a digital console might be the perfect choice for you too.

If you want an iPad, don’t consider an Android tablet even as a stopgap. I made the mistake of getting an Android tablet when I could’ve just saved money for an iPad. Here’s why I regret not buying the tablet I really wanted first.

1 An iPad Fits Better in the Apple Ecosystem

While I’m not an Apple fanboy, I use iPhones and Macs because I think they perform better than their competitors. Of course, I can just use an Android tablet separately and sign into the other two with the same Google ID. However, having another Apple product makes it easier to integrate everything within the same ecosystem.

I can quickly AirDrop content between my devices, and having all of my passwords saved across multiple devices—without needing to use a third-party password manager—is also convenient. There are several other features that make the Apple ecosystem amazing, such as Handoff and AirPlay.

This point is irrelevant if you use an Android phone, but an iPad would fight right in if you’re already within the Apple ecosystem.

2 I Prefer Using Apple’s Native Apps

Besides sticking to the Apple ecosystem, I also like using Apple’s native apps. Apple’s Notes app is one example; I think I’ve genuinely opened Google Keep about five times in my life.

I also like using FaceTime more than any other video calling apps, and iMessage is my preferred way to stay in touch with my friends and family. Freeform is also a helpful app for putting my creative ideas on paper.

I still use some Google apps on my iPad, such as Google Calendar. However, I’d much rather have the benefit of Apple’s native apps and then just download the Google apps I’m interested in.

3 iPadOS Runs Better Than Android

By far, the main reason I prefer Apple products is because of how they work. When I had my Android tablet, I got really frustrated with how slow the software would sometimes run. This is the exact why I switched from my Android smartphone to an iPhone over a decade ago, too.

iPadOS is by no means perfect, but I very rarely encounter performance issues. Moreover, the problems I run into are often solved before too long. Most of the time, I can also troubleshoot common iPad problems without too many issues.

4 An Android Tablet Was a Stopgap

The truth is that I always wanted an iPad, and an Android tablet was nothing more than a stopgap. I’ve often caught myself doing this with all kinds of items, such as clothes and headphones. If you don’t *need* whatever you want to buy, it’s often better to just save up and buy the actual thing you want.

Because I bought an Android tablet instead of waiting for an iPad, I spent more money than I would have. Moreover, I was less satisfied with it. If you’re a student who finds iPads expensive, you should get the Apple Student Discount and save money on your purchase.

5 Many iPad Apps Are Unavailable for Android

Besides Apple’s native apps, some third-party apps I like aren’t available on Android. One great example is DaVinci Resolve, which offers powerful video-editing capabilities without needing a computer. I often use the app to create videos for multiple platforms, and I like how using DaVinci Resolve on an iPad provides access to nodes, comprehensive color grading, etc.

Procreate is another example of an app you’ll find on iPadOS but not Android. If creative apps like this are important to you, I’d strongly suggest saving up for an iPad—especially if you aren’t too interested in Android tablets.

Android tablets are good enough for many people, but I always wanted an iPad for creative work, and buying anything else seemed pointless. I like the Apple ecosystem features and the creative apps available for iPads. Plus, iPadOS usually runs without problems. So, If you’re considering a new iPad, I suggest waiting till you can afford one and not buying a stopgap.

The tried and tested keyboard and mouse setup has been a staple for PC gamers for decades. However, these days, some of the hottest PC titles are best enjoyed by switching to a gaming controller instead.

If you’re a PC gamer who wants the best customizable experience possible with your controller, then the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core could be the one for you. Using this wireless controller with the Xbox Accessories app gives you a suite of customizable options, including button mapping, custom player profiles, and light array settings.

It sports a pair of adjustable-tension thumbsticks, shorter hair trigger locks, and a rubberized wraparound grip, which add to the overall pro feel. If you want to change the cosmetics, its thumbstick toppers, paddles, and D-pad can all be swapped out (a thumbstick adjustment tool comes included), and you can choose between wireless, Bluetooth, or USB-C connectivity for added versatility.

Add in an impressive 40-hour battery life, and you have a gaming controller that lives up to its ‘elite’ mantle. It doesn’t come cheap, but if you value near-limitless customization to level up your game time, this is a very worthy upgrade to the standard Xbox core controller.

Best Overall

Xbox Elite Series 2 Core

$117 $140 Save $23

Offering many options for individual player customization, the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core is one of the best gaming controllers for PC gamers overall.

Pros

• Offers plenty of options for customization
• 40 hours of battery life
• Interchangeable D-pad and thumbsticks
• Non-slip textured grip
• Available in a range of colors

The GameSir T4 Kaleid is one of the best budget-friendly wired gaming controllers PC gamers could wish for. Its transparent body is ideal for maximizing the customizable LED lighting features, allowing you to tailor its appearance to your liking and play style.

Hall-effect sticks provide a precise level of control free from any niggling drift issues, and macro back buttons allow you the freedom to assign your own commands for a more bespoke experience, which can be further customized using the GameSir Nexus software. Plus, for action gamers, a Turbo function allows you to switch to hair-trigger mode with a quick button press for ultra-responsive control.

Elsewhere, you’ll find a built-in six-axis gyro that supports motion control for intuitive aim assist or steering controls to round out the Kaleid’s list of functions. And with 6.5 feet of cable included, there’s no danger of your gameplay becoming restricted with this impressive, cost-effective controller.

Best Budget

GameSir T4 Kaleid Transparent PC Controller

For PC gamers who don’t mind a wired connection, the GameSir T4 Kaleid is one of the best feature-rich and budget-friendly gaming controllers currently available.

Pros

• Affordable
• Surprisingly feature-rich
• Reasonable scope for customization
• Cool-looking design

Best Retro PC Controller: 8Bitdo Pro 2

Offering a cool old-school look with convenient wireless functionality, the 8Bitdo Pro 2 is a retro gamer’s dream. But don’t let its more simplistic design deceive you. This wireless and Bluetooth-enabled controller hides plenty of customizable features behind that unassuming exterior.

Using the 8Bitdo Ultimate Software, you can assign macros, set trigger lengths, and access button mapping functions. Thumbstick sensitivity and vibration intensity can also be adjusted, and custom profile switching can be enabled depending on the game.

There are durable hall-effect joysticks that prevent any annoying stick drift issues, and the Pro 2 even supports motion control. Plus, with 20 hours of battery life in the tank (on a full charge), you can enjoy plenty of playtime before it needs a recharge.

Best Retro

8Bitdo Pro 2

Ideal for retro gaming fans, the 8Bitdo Pro 2 marries a cool retro style with modern-day wireless functionality and is ideal for fast-paced PC gaming.

Pros

• Cool retro look
• Decent amount of customization options
• Hall-effect joysticks
• 20-hour battery life
• Also compatible with the Switch and Steam Deck

Cons

• Software can be a bit hit-and-miss

The Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck is a premium controller that’s ideal for your Microsoft Flight Simulator gameplay. Sporting a world-first flight touch display and a customizable OLED HUD, it offers an unrivaled precision experience with more features than you can shake a (flight) stick at.

It consists of a stick module with a gear lever plus a three-position rotary dial, which provides super-smooth throttle control with enhanced haptic detents. It also has a four-way remappable navigation pad and an eight-way HAT switch, which allow you to toggle quickly between attack and fine-tune sensor modes. This gives you complete freedom for customization, with as many as 139 programmable button functions for advanced control.

All this customization comes at a considerable cost, but if you’re serious about your flight sims, this is the controller set you need to elevate your flight time to the next level.

Best for Microsoft Flight Simulator

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck

Navigate your chosen flight path with sheer precision and control with the Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck. The perfect gaming controller for fans of Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Pros

• Incredibly deep customization
• Offers precision control
• Can be adjusted to suit all hand sizes
• Multi-zone RGB lighting
• On-board audio enhancements

Cons

• Very expensive
• For dedicated flight sim fans only

Best PC Fight Stick: NACON Daija Arcade Fight StickIf you’re looking for a PC controller to help you to KO your opponent with as much proficiency and style as possible, theNacon Daija Arcade Fight Stickhas got you covered. Designed for top fighting games like Tekken, Mortal Kombat, and Soul Caliber, this customizable fight pad has everything you need to bring the pain.

Using the Nacon Daija Arcade Stick software, all buttons are fully mappable. You can set up custom profiles, and swap out the customizable SANWA joystick heads, action buttons, and faceplate to help you juggle those combos with ease. Plus, the textured palm rest means you can do it all in complete comfort, even during extended gameplay sessions.

With added support for audio and chat, you can celebrate your victories with a well-timed taunt or two, as well. The Nacon Daija Arcade Fight Stick is the perfect PC controller for any aspiring ultimate fighting game champion.

Best Fight Stick

NACON Daija Arcade Fight Stick

Juggle combos like a pro and get that KO with the Nacon Daija Arcade Fight Stick. Precision control with a host of customizable settings for fighting game enthusiasts.

Pros

• Plenty of customization options
• Can be cosmetically altered to suit individual style
• Supports audio and chat
• Textured palm rest for added comfort
• Built with pro-level joysticks and buttons

Cons

• Expensive
• Not really suitable for other game genres

FAQ

Q: Can I use my Xbox controllers with PC?

Yes. There are plenty of PC games that allow you to use an Xbox controller instead of a keyboard or mouse. Most Xbox controllers enable you to connect wirelessly with your PC, or via Bluetooth or USB-C cable.

Q: Can I use my PS5 controllers with PC?

Yes. The easiest way to do this is with a USB-C to USB-A cable. With the USB-C end plugged into your DualSense controller and the USB-A plug inserted into your PC’s port, and Windows should automatically detect the controller.

Alternatively, provided that your PC supports Bluetooth, you can connect your PS5’s DualSense wirelessly. Bear in mind that only certain games will support the DualSense’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.

Q: Are all PC games compatible with a controller?

Most PC games nowadays do provide support for controller-based gameplay. Some older PC games won’t support a controller, although it is possible to map mouse and keyboard inputs into a controller, using an app such as reWASD, or by using Steam’s Big Picture Mode, provided that you have a compatible controller.

Q: How do I get my PC to recognize my controller?

If you are connecting your controller with a USB cable, insert the cable into the USB port and your Windows PC should automatically detect the controller, allowing you to use it immediately.

Alternatively, if your PC is Bluetooth-enabled, you will need to ensure that Bluetooth discovery mode has been engaged. Once this is done, press and hold the sync button on your controller until the Guide button begins to flash. Then, using the Bluetooth menu on your PC, select the option to add the device, to pair your controller with your PC.

Chromebooks are stable and secure, but your options for fixing a broken Chromebook are somewhat limited. If you’re not worried about data loss, powerwashing your Chromebook is one of the best ways to restore its functionality. Here are two methods you can use to factory reset your Chromebook.

How to Factory Reset Your Chromebook Through Settings

Factory resetting (or “powerwashing”) your Chromebook is the simplest recovery option you can use to try to repair your Chromebook. When you factory reset your Chromebook, the powerwash will delete all of your locally stored data but won’t reinstall ChromeOS itself.

It will remove your associated Google accounts, and will also delete any saved networks and owner account permissions on your device. Because powerwashing deletes all of your system configurations, it’s capable of repairing OS issues that you may have accidentally created.

Factory resetting your Chromebook can’t fix issues with the operating system, however. If issues with your Chromebook persist, you may need to reinstall ChromeOS to fix it.

To hard reset your Chromebook through Settings, take the following steps:

1. Click on the time in the taskbar in the bottom right corner of your screen and then select the Settings gear to open the Settings app.

   

2. Find and select System Preferences in the navigation menu on the left side of the Settings app.
3. In the expanded options that appear in the main panel, scroll down until you find the Reset section.
4. Under the Reset heading, click on the Reset button to the right of the Powerwash option to reset your Chromebook.
5. A prompt will appear asking you to restart your device before resetting it. Click Restart to initiate the powerwash.

   

How to Factory Reset a Logged-Out Chromebook

You can’t access Settings if you’re locked out of your Chromebook, and you don’t have any hope of repairing issues with your Chromebook as long as you can’t access the device. Luckily, there is a workaround you can use to factory reset a logged-out Chromebook.

Here’s how to factory reset your Chromebook, even when it’s logged out:

1. Boot up your Chromebook and wait for the lock screen to appear. Ideally, your Chromebook should be plugged in before you attempt to factory reset it.
2. Simultaneously press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R to initiate the powerwashing process.
3. A prompt will appear asking whether you want to Reset this Chromebook. Click on the Powerwash and Revert button to factory reset your Chromebook.

After you reset your Chromebook, you’ll be prompted to log in to your Google account and set up the device. If you used Google Drive to back up your data before factory resetting your device, it will be immediately accessible once you log in.

No matter why you factory reset your Chromebook, powerwashing is a powerful process that can make even the oldest devices as good as new. If it doesn’t resolve your Chromebook’s problems, tactics like reinstalling ChromeOS may also help.

Connections requires players to find the connections between 16 words, and place them in four groups of four. If you want some help, we have the solution to Connections for Saturday, June 22, 2024, along with hints to help you solve it yourself.

SPOILERS AHEAD (CLUES)

Category Clues for Today’s Connections (#377)

Today, as every day, you need to split the 16 words that make up the Connections puzzle grid into four groups of four based on specific categories. It isn’t as easy as it sounds. Fortunately, we’re on hand to help you solve today’s Connections puzzle.

If you want to jump straight to today’s Connections solution, scroll past the next spoiler warning. However, if you’d rather see some hints designed to help you solve it without giving the answers away first:

• Yellow: “When things connect to another in a line”
• Green: “What Tiger Woods has been carrying in a bag for decades”
• Blue: “I watch these while cowering behind ‘The Sofa'”
• Purple: “Brits also call these ‘bangers’, and pair them with mash”

SPOILERS AHEAD (CATEGORIES)

Today’s Connections Solution (June 22, 2024)

If those clues aren’t enough, and you’re still struggling to beat Connections #377 without running out of mistakes, here is the solution…

Today’s Connections Categories

• Yellow = “One Thing After Another”
• Green = “Kinds of Golf Clubs”
• Blue = “Horror Movies, With ‘The'”
• Purple = “Words for Sausage”

With the categories revealed, you should try to guess which words belong where. There are 16 words in total, with four belonging to each category.

If you are still stuck despite knowing the names of each category, continue scrolling down for the 16 words organized into their respective categories.

SPOILERS AHEAD (SOLUTION)

Today’s Connections Solution

• Yellow: “One Thing After Another” = CHAIN, TRAIN, SERIES, STRING
• Green: “Kinds of Golf Clubs” = DRIVER, IRON, WEDGE, WOOD
• Blue: “Horror Movies, With ‘The'” = BIRDS, FOG, OMEN, RING
• Purple: “Words for Sausage” = BRAT, DOG, FRANK, LINK

How I Solved Today’s Connections Puzzle

Takeaways from solving today’s Connections…

1. The most obvious red herrings are “train” and “driver,” as two words that often go together, “chain” and “link” as the latter forms the former, and the various words that rhyme (“chain” and “train,” “fog” and “dog,”) etc.
2. The Blue category may cause issues for some people who aren’t big fans of horror films. However, as someone who is, I found this category quite easy.
3. I personally found the Purple category the most difficult, as these words aren’t the ones that immediately spring to mind when I think of sausages. It feels like slang terms for sausages differ greatly from country to country.

Our Top Tips to Beat Connections Every Day

1. Shuffle the words as many times as you need. Shuffling the words around means you’re more likely to spot the connections.
2. Look for differences as well as similarities. The NYT is trying to trip you up, so look for what divides the words with similar meanings.
3. Take your time, and don’t rush into a guess. Connections isn’t a timed challenge, so you have the luxury of planning everything out.
4. Look for common themes over time. The more you play Connections, the more you’ll spot recurring themes cropping up regularly.
5. Tune into the NYT editors’ way of thinking. It’s the puzzle setters you’re competing against, so you need to understand their game plan.

Now that you have completed today’s Connections puzzle (with a little help from your friends at MUO), you should check out some of the other free games from the New York Times.

Wordle is the best-known of them all, and challenges you to find a 5-letter word within six guesses. For every letter you find, you get told if it’s in the correct place, allowing you to whittle down the possible options. If you need help with Wordle, check out our tips and tricks to improve your Wordle score.

There’s also Strands, the newest addition to the New York Times’ burgeoning list of games. Just like Connections, it’s extremely challenging, but in a unique string-the-letters-together way. We recommend you check out our best tips for beating Strands to give yourself a leg up on the daily challenge.

Or, if you’re really only into Connections but want more tips than are offered above, check out our longer list of Connections tips and tricks.

I still own and use a PlayStation 4 as my main console even though it was released over a decade ago. And I’m far from alone. The numbers suggest that millions of PS4 owners are still happily using their outdated console, and refusing to upgrade to the PlayStation 5. But why? Let’s explore the reasons for this resistance together.

1 I Still Have Too Many PS4 Games to Play

The biggest reason why I haven’t yet switched is that I have 25 physical PS4 games that I have yet to play. And yes, I have counted them. I have added these to my collection over the past 10 years and then just never got around to playing them. Some were bought new, and some were bought used. But they’re all sat there unplayed.

This includes Tomb Raider, Spider-Man, The Last of Us: Part II, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Hogwarts Legacy. Some absolute crackers that together represent hundreds of hours of potential playtime.

I also have literally hundreds of digital titles yet to play; some purchased while on sale, and many more accumulated over the years through PlayStation Plus. Is this my fault? Sure. I should have played through my catalog of PS4 games as I acquired them, rather than letting them stack up.

But here we are. I am well aware that most PS4 games can be played on the PS5, but am I really going to drop hundreds of dollars on a new console only to then continue playing games from the previous generation? It’s unlikely.

2 The PS5 Hasn’t Dropped in Price As I Hoped It Would

Despite owning countless PS4-exclusive games, I would have switched if the PS5 had got cheaper—but it hasn’t. The PlayStation 5 was released in 2020, and yet the price hasn’t really shifted in the four years since.

Early on, with demand outstripping supply, most people had to pay over the odds in order to secure a PS5 console. The price then dipped slightly, but not enough to make me pull the trigger and finally buy one.

I’m old enough to remember several console generations and remember when the price of the hardware would drop over time with some level of consistency. But those times are clearly over, with the PS5 staying at roughly the same price.

If Sony suddenly cut the price in half, then that would be enough for me to purchase a PlayStation 5. But instead, the retail price of a PS5 has actually increased in some territories since launch—which is ridiculous.

3 There Aren’t Enough PS5 Games Worth Upgrading For

As someone who has owned all the previous Sony home consoles, from the original PlayStation all the way through to the PlayStation 4, I’m not completely immune to the lure of the PS5. In fact, I’m sure that I will be switching at some point; just not yet.

And one reason for that is the lack of PS5 games that I feel the need to play. Since launch, I have kept an eye on what’s being released on the PS5 and there have only been a handful of games that have made me wish I had a PS5.

This may not only be about the lack of triple-AAA games being released on PS5. I am also getting older, and don’t play console games as often as I used to. But still, so many years into the PS5’s lifespan, there should be more games that I personally want to play.

Grand Theft Auto VI could change everything here, as it’s only set to be released on the current-gen consoles. So, us gamers clinging on to our PS4s will be forced to upgrade if we want to play Rockstar’s latest epic.

4 Most PS5 Games Are Still Being Released on PS4

Tied in with the reason discussed above is the fact that most new games are also being released on PS4. Sure, the PS5 versions look and play better, but so far, that hasn’t been enough to lure me into upgrading to the newer console. Because I don’t own a PS5, I don’t know what I’m missing, so the PS4 versions of these games feel fine to me. For now.

This is a catch-22 for Sony and game developers. Right now, with so many people sticking with their PS4s, it would be unwise to cut such a huge potential audience out of the loop by only releasing a game on PS5. But the longer this goes on, the less likely people are to upgrade. So, there will come a tipping point when, for various reasons, games stop being released on PS4—but we’re not quite there yet.

5 The Price of New Games Is Just Too Expensive

Most new PlayStation 5 games retail for at least $60, with many priced even higher than that. Which, for someone who has rarely bought new games for many years, feels extremely high. While I completely understand that triple-AAA video games cost a fortune to develop and make, the high price of new games is a barrier to me hopping onto this console generation. Especially as, as I have already mentioned, I own too many older games as it is.

Regardless of inflation, it feels like the price of admission for gaming is higher now than it used to be. The retail price of games generally only buys you access to a basic experience these days, with even more money needed to unlock extra content.

So, beyond just the price needed to buy the hardware, upgrading to a PS5 means this particular hobby of mine becomes much more expensive. Especially when I can buy pre-owned PS4 games relatively cheaply.

Ultimately, I’m very likely to upgrade from PS4 to PS5 at some point. Unless Sony announces the PlayStation 6 before I’ve pulled the trigger. Which is unlikely. But for now, I’m happy with my PS4 and see no real reason to upgrade.