From 9to5Google · 40 stories
Leaked image suggests minimal design changes for Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra
A leaked image of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra indicates that its external design will be largely identical to its predecessor, the Tab S11 Ultra. This suggests that any significant upgrades will likely be internal, such as a new chipset or operating system.
Google Messages RCS experiences '3100' error for some Samsung Galaxy users
Some Google Messages users, primarily those with Samsung Galaxy devices, are encountering a '3100' error preventing RCS messaging. This issue appears to be linked to switching to new devices or carriers, and a clear cause has not yet been identified.
Google Pixel 11 Introduces New Screen Saver Styles and Switching Functionality
Google Pixel 11 phones now include updated screen savers with a new "Charge" style and the ability to switch between multiple selected screen savers. This update enhances customization and functionality for Pixel users, bringing a feature similar to Apple's iPhone StandBy.
Peloton Strength+ App Launches on Android After Nearly Two Years on iOS
Peloton has released its Strength+ app for Android users, making its strength training programs available on the Google Play Store. This expansion provides Android users access to expert-led workout programs, a workout generator, and instructional guides previously exclusive to iOS.
Pixel 11 introduces Magic Capture for simultaneous video and AI-extracted photos
The Pixel 11 features a new "Magic Capture" mode that records up to two minutes of video and automatically extracts high-resolution still photos using AI. This feature aims to simplify capturing both video and photos from a single recording, building on previous attempts like Apple's Live Photos.
Google Pixel 11 Introduces Ringtones with Matching Haptic Vibration Patterns
The Google Pixel 11 now offers a feature that synchronizes vibration patterns with ringtones, enhancing haptic feedback. This update allows users to experience distinct vibrations for select ringtones and customize patterns for other tones, including per-contact settings.
Google Pixel Journal app updates with cloud-based Private AI Compute and UI changes
Google is updating its Pixel Journal app, introducing cloud-based Private AI Compute for auto-formatting features and making several user interface adjustments. This update extends AI capabilities beyond on-device processing while maintaining privacy safeguards, impacting users of Pixel devices.
Pixel 11 Series Removes "Powered by Android" Boot Logo, Replaced by Gemini Intelligence Branding
The new Pixel 11 lineup no longer displays the "Powered by Android" boot logo, instead featuring branding related to Gemini Intelligence. This change reflects Google's increased focus on Gemini in its Pixel device marketing and development efforts.
Gboard Beta Introduces New 'Emoji Size' Setting for Customization
Gboard is rolling out a new "Emoji size" setting to beta users, allowing them to adjust the size and number of emojis displayed in a row. This update provides users with more control over their emoji viewing experience, especially with Google's updated 3D emoji designs.
Pixel 11 introduces expanded "Pixel search" feature, hidden in app drawer
Google's Pixel 11 phones include an expanded "Pixel search" feature that unifies searches across various apps and files. However, this search bar is not on the homescreen, which reduces its accessibility and utility for users.
reMarkable Paper Pro can run Android 13 with user modification
A YouTuber successfully ported Android 13 to the reMarkable Paper Pro, an e-paper tablet originally running a proprietary OS. This modification allows the tablet to access Android applications like Kindle, expanding its functionality beyond its original design.
Google introduces blue gradient ring to signify paid subscriptions on Android and web
Google is rolling out a new blue gradient ring around user profile photos to indicate a paid subscription across its Android and web platforms. This visual change replaces the previous four-color ring used for Google One subscribers and applies to various paid tiers, including AI Plus, AI Pro, AI Ultra, and non-AI Google One subscriptions. The update also includes a redesigned fullscreen menu with a more compact layout for account information and upgrade options.
Pixel 11 Features Stronger Pixelsnap Magnets Compared to Pixel 10
The Pixel 11 series incorporates stronger Pixelsnap magnets, improving accessory attachment reliability compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 10. This enhancement addresses a previous weakness and brings the magnetic connection closer to the strength of Apple's MagSafe system.
Unreleased Google Photos Version Shows Map View Integration for Ask Photos Search
An unreleased version of Google Photos (7.89.0.966319819) reportedly includes a new map view feature within its AI-powered Ask Photos search. This integration would display search results as bubbles on a map, allowing users to visualize photo locations directly within the search interface.
Leaked "Moto Snap" magnetic wireless charger suggests broader Qi2 adoption by Motorola
Images of a "Moto Snap" magnetic wireless charger have leaked, indicating Motorola may expand Qi2 magnetic wireless charging beyond its Edge 70 Max smartphone. This development could bring the Qi2 standard to more devices in Motorola's product line.
Samsung introduces new "Warranty and Care" menu in One UI 9 for easier repair management
Samsung is rolling out a new "Warranty and Care" menu within One UI 9, starting with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, to centralize warranty and repair information for Galaxy devices. This update allows users to view warranty periods, Samsung Care+ eligibility, and estimated repair costs directly within their device settings, simplifying the process of managing device maintenance.
Pixel Screenshots app updated with new date and application filters
The Pixel Screenshots app received an update, version 1.26.281.05, introducing new filtering options by date range and source application. This update allows users to more precisely sort and locate screenshots within the app, complementing existing text search capabilities.
Google Nest Hub Devices Experienced Widespread Outage Overnight
Google's Nest Hub devices experienced a widespread outage last night, causing voice commands and routines to fail, and screens to go blank. The issue has since been resolved, but Google has not provided details on the cause.
Find Hub for Wear OS adds basic "Find people" app, lacking map view
Google has updated Find Hub on Wear OS to include a "Find people" app, which lists contacts who can see the user's location. The new feature currently lacks a map view, requiring users to switch to their phone to see locations, and contains a bug in its settings menu.
Google's Tensor G6 chip for Pixel 11 uses TSMC's 3nm process, not 2nm as rumored
Google's upcoming Tensor G6 chip, set to debut in the Pixel 11, will be manufactured using TSMC's 3nm process, contrary to earlier rumors of it being the first 2nm smartphone chip. This clarification from Google's VP of Hardware confirms the process node for the new chip, which includes CPU, TPU, ISP, and security chip upgrades.
LineageOS 23 now available for Samsung Galaxy S22 series, offering Android 16
LineageOS 23 nightly builds, based on Android 16, are now available for the Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra. This release provides an alternative to Samsung's One UI and extends the software lifespan of these devices.
Final UI for Googlebook 'Desktop Camera' app revealed
The final user interface for the Googlebook 'Desktop Camera' application has been revealed through its Google Play listing, ahead of the Googlebook launch this fall. This application is designed for larger screens, including tablets, laptops, and desktops, offering features like external webcam support and smart document scanning.
Android 17 QPR2 allows Pixel users to customize Quick Settings layout
Android 17 QPR2, released in a Canary build, introduces a feature for Pixel users to reorder elements within the Quick Settings shade. This update provides six layout combinations for the Brightness bar, Tiles, and Media player, offering more personalization for the user interface.
Google Health 5.06 Update Adds Coach Control and Map Fixes
Google Health 5.06 is rolling out on Android and iOS, allowing users to control the visibility of Health Coach guidance in the Today tab. This update provides options to either display full coaching insights or only activity and sleep summaries, addressing user preferences for app interface customization.
8BitDo Releases FlipPad Compact USB-C Game Controller for Android and iOS at $29.99
8BitDo has launched the FlipPad, a compact game controller for Android and iOS devices, priced at $29.99. This controller connects via USB-C and features a hinge design for temporary screen access without disconnection, targeting mobile emulator users.
Google Meet Expands AI-Powered 'Take Notes' Feature to In-Person Meetings
Google Meet is rolling out its Gemini-powered 'Take Notes' feature for in-person meetings on Android, web, and iOS, previously limited to online meetings. This expansion allows users to generate transcripts, summaries, and action items from physical gatherings, saving them to Google Drive.
Gemini AI Assistant Adds Over a Dozen New Connected Apps
Google's Gemini AI assistant is integrating with over a dozen new applications, including Ticketmaster, Angi, and Zocdoc, which will roll out in the coming weeks. This expansion allows Gemini to connect with more external services, increasing its utility across various digital tasks for users.
Pixel 11 Series in US Remains eSIM-Only, Except for Pro Fold Model
Google's Pixel 11 series in the United States continues to be eSIM-only, following the Pixel 10 series, meaning physical SIM cards are not supported on most models. This decision aligns with the broader industry trend towards eSIM adoption, which Apple initiated years prior. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is an exception, retaining a physical SIM slot alongside eSIM support.
Pixel Watch 5 Introduces 2nd Gen Active Band Made from HNBR to Reduce PFAS
Google's Pixel Watch 5 features a new "2nd Gen Active Band" made from Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (HNBR) with a soft-touch coating. This material change aims to reduce the presence of PFAS "forever chemicals" by over 99% compared to the previous fluoroelastomer bands, aligning with industry efforts to move away from these substances.
Beeper introduces chat merging for contacts across multiple messaging apps
Beeper has released an update that allows users to merge conversations with the same contact from different messaging applications into a single chat thread. This feature aims to simplify communication by consolidating interactions with individuals regardless of the platform used. The update also includes customizable backgrounds on Android, message sorting, poll support, new languages, and limited free access to previously paid features.
Samsung Galaxy S26 FE specifications and higher price leak ahead of expected September launch
Specifications for Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE have leaked, showing largely unchanged hardware compared to its predecessor, the S25 FE. Despite the minimal upgrades, reports indicate a price increase of €50, bringing the starting cost in France to €799.
Google Sheets iOS icon updated with 180-degree rotation, aligning with app interface
Google updated the Sheets icon for iOS by rotating it 180 degrees, moving the x- and y-axis indicators to the top-left and repositioning the secondary sheet. This change aligns the icon's visual representation with the actual appearance of Google Sheets. The update is currently exclusive to the iOS version of the app.
Google Messages Beta Updates Long-Press Menu and Introduces Partial Text Copying
Google Messages is rolling out a redesigned long-press menu in its beta version (20260731_00_RC00) that moves options from a top toolbar to a floating menu, improving one-handed use. This update also adds the ability to copy specific parts of a message, rather than the entire text, and introduces expanded chat theme options.
Audeze Releases Maxwell 2 ANC Gaming Headset with Planar Magnetic Driver Noise Cancellation
Audeze has announced the Maxwell 2 ANC, a new flagship gaming headset that integrates active noise cancellation (ANC) with its planar magnetic drivers. This release is significant as it addresses the engineering challenge of maintaining sound quality with ANC in planar magnetic headphones, a technology Audeze states is unique in the industry.
Google Photos 7.85 for Android Adds Shimmer Toggle, Material 3 Redesign, and AI Camera Shortcut
Google Photos for Android version 7.85 introduces a setting to disable the "shimmer" effect that highlights subjects for sticker creation. The update also includes a Material 3 Expressive redesign for some settings pages and adds a camera shortcut for AI templates like Remix and Photo to video, allowing users to quickly capture new images.
Gemini on Wear OS receives new overlay design for Pixel Watch, aligning with Android UI
Gemini on Wear OS is rolling out a new overlay design for Pixel Watch, mirroring the Neural Expressive interface found on Android phones. This update changes how Gemini appears on the smartwatch, displaying over the current watch face instead of opening a full application, which improves visual consistency across devices.
Google develops AI-generated lockscreen clocks for Pixel phones in Android Canary
Google is developing AI-generated lockscreen clocks for Pixel phones, as revealed in Android Canary 2608. This feature allows users to create unique digital clock designs using AI prompts or image references, similar to AI wallpapers, and could offer more customization options for Pixel users.
Android Canary 2608 for Pixel devices adds Quick Settings layout customization
Google released Android Canary 2608, which introduces the ability to customize the Quick Settings layout on Pixel devices. This update allows users to reorder elements like the Brightness bar, Tiles, and Media player, offering six possible combinations.
Google Chrome for Android rolls out dual navigation bars with integrated Gemini button
Google Chrome for Android is rolling out a new interface featuring dual navigation bars and a dedicated Gemini button. This update changes the browser's layout, placing the URL and basic controls at the top, and new tab, tab management, and Gemini access at the bottom, impacting user interaction with the browser.
Google Home update adds support for viewing third-party cameras from Wyze, Eufy, and others
Google Home's latest update expands support for viewing live feeds from third-party security cameras, including brands like Eufy, Tapo, Wyze, Reolink, and Nanit, directly within the Google Home app. This update aims to provide more consistent integration for smart home users who utilize various camera brands alongside their Google Home ecosystem.