From 9to5Google · 24 stories
Comu Action Pro AI Recorder Reviewed: Struggles to Justify Premium Over Smartphone Apps
The Comu Action Pro, a standalone AI voice recorder, offers a slim design and extended battery life but struggles to differentiate itself from existing smartphone recording applications like Google Pixel's Recorder app. The device's $180 price point is questioned given the advanced transcription and translation features already available on smartphones.
Fitbit Air users are taping the tracker to their bodies for alternative wear
Fitbit Air owners are using kinesiology tape to attach the device to their upper arms and other body parts, moving beyond the intended wrist placement. This alternative wearing method reportedly offers more accurate data by reducing wrist motion, similar to dedicated bicep bands available for other trackers.
Pixel 11 Reviews Highlight Incremental Updates and Rising Costs
Reviews for Google's new Pixel phones and smartwatches indicate minor hardware upgrades, with many new features expected to arrive on older Pixel devices via software updates. Reviewers note rising prices and hardware that lags behind competitors, making the Pixel 11 a difficult recommendation at launch.
Samsung patent filing shows foldable phone with horizontal camera layout, similar to Pixel
Samsung patent filings depict a foldable phone with a horizontal camera bar design, a departure from its current vertical camera layout across Galaxy devices. This potential design change could address compatibility issues with the Qi2 wireless charging standard, which is gaining traction in the accessory market.
Google's Pixel Event Features Modest Upgrades and Gemini Integration
Google held its annual Pixel product launch event in New York, showcasing new hardware with incremental year-over-year upgrades and emphasizing Gemini AI integration. The event featured comedian Trevor Noah as host, aiming to position Pixel as a mainstream brand.
Google Chrome users report random sign-outs from accounts on desktop
Some Google Chrome users have reported being randomly signed out of their Google accounts on the desktop browser over the past two months. This issue disrupts account sync for history and bookmarks, and Google has not yet formally acknowledged it.
Mammotion Luba 3 robot lawnmower uses NetRTK and LiDAR for precise navigation
The Mammotion Luba 3 AWD robot lawnmower utilizes NetRTK satellite positioning and LiDAR for navigation, addressing common issues with perimeter wires or RTK base stations. This technology allows for accurate boundary adherence and simplified setup, improving the user experience for robot lawnmowers.
Google Pixel's Tensor chip needs a significant performance leap, similar to AMD's Ryzen
The Google Pixel's Tensor chip is criticized for its incremental gains and performance issues, drawing parallels to AMD's Bulldozer era. For the Pixel line to reach its full potential, the Tensor chip requires a substantial architectural improvement, akin to AMD's shift from Bulldozer to Ryzen.
Googlebook faces uphill battle against new laptop launches and market trends
The author expresses skepticism about Googlebook, Google's upcoming Android-based desktop platform, citing a lack of clear purpose and a focus on premium hardware in a market increasingly dominated by budget-conscious alternatives. New laptop releases from Lenovo and Dell at IFA further highlight the competitive landscape Googlebook will enter.
Chrome for Android's New Navigation Bar Redesign Criticized for Excessive UI Elements
Google is rolling out a redesigned navigation bar for Chrome on Android, which adds a secondary toolbar at the bottom of the screen. This change is criticized for creating a cluttered interface, especially for users who prefer the bottom address bar, due to the stacking of multiple UI elements.
Google's Pixel 11 Clear Case criticized for high price and design flaws
Google's official Pixelsnap Clear Case for the Pixel 11 series is priced at $50, which is considered overpriced compared to third-party alternatives. The case offers minimal protection, particularly at the bottom, and shows yellowing straight out of the box, issues not present in cheaper options.
Google Assistant's Replacement by Gemini Draws User Criticism for Lost Functionality
Google is replacing Assistant with Gemini, leading to user frustration because Gemini lacks some basic functionalities that Assistant provided. This change impacts users who relied on Assistant for simple tasks like setting alarms and controlling smart home devices.
Google Stadia's Discontinuation Was Justified Despite Positive User Experience
Google Stadia, a cloud gaming service, was discontinued despite offering a positive gaming experience for some users. Its closure is attributed to market conditions and infrastructure limitations at the time, even though game streaming has since found a niche with services like GeForce Now.
Boox Go 10.3 Gen II e-reader reviewed for minimal design and note-taking capabilities
The Boox Go 10.3 Gen II e-reader is reviewed as a device that excels in note-taking and reading due to its minimal design and Android 15 operating system. Its thin profile and e-paper display are highlighted as key features for users seeking a focused digital experience.
Android Auto remains superior to Android Automotive for in-car entertainment
Android Auto is considered a better in-car entertainment experience than Android Automotive, despite occasional issues. This is due to Android Auto's reliance on constantly updated phone hardware, avoiding the obsolescence of car-embedded systems and subscription models.
Google Launches Googlebook Marketing Campaign Featuring Henry Cavill
Google has initiated a marketing campaign for its upcoming Googlebook laptops, partnering with actor Henry Cavill. The campaign highlights the Googlebook's software features and integration with Android phones, with Cavill using the device to "build a video game" that is anticipated for a November release.
Pixel 11 30-Day Review Highlights Design Refinements and Minor Issues
A user review of the Google Pixel 11 after 30 days of use notes subtle design changes, such as a flatter camera visor and repositioned NFC chip, alongside minor build quality concerns. The review suggests that while the device offers incremental improvements, it largely maintains the design language of previous generations.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Discounts Ahead of Galaxy Z Fold 8 Launch
Samsung is offering substantial discounts on the Galaxy Z Fold 7, with Amazon selling models for $500 off and Best Buy offering up to $750 off open-box units. These discounts align with the upcoming release of the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which is part of Samsung's forthcoming Galaxy Unpacked event. The promotion offers consumers significant savings on last-generation models as they prepare for new releases.
Xteink X4 Pro and Classic magnetic e-readers are on sale
Xteink has discounted its X4 Pro and X4 Classic magnetic e-readers by $10 during a fall sale, making them available for $99 and $79 respectively. These 4.3-inch e-readers attach to phones via Qi2 or MagSafe, offering a secondary display for reading.
Galaxy Watch 9 40mm Model Drops to $299 in Samsung Deal
Samsung has reduced the price of its Galaxy Watch 9 40mm model to $299, a $79 discount from its original $379 price, two months after its late July launch. The 44mm model is also discounted to $349, and the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is on sale for $579. This deal makes the recently released smartwatch more accessible without trade-in requirements.
Nothing Headphone (a) and Phone (3) reach new all-time low prices on Amazon
Nothing Headphone (a) are discounted by 45% to $109, and the Nothing Phone (3) is available for $499, marking new lowest prices on Amazon for both products. These limited-time offers provide significant savings on Nothing's latest audio and mobile hardware.
Google discounts Pixel 10 series cases ahead of Pixel 11 launch
Google is offering discounts on official Pixel 10 series cases, reducing prices by approximately $15 for most models. This sale precedes the anticipated launch of the Pixel 11 next week, indicating an effort to clear existing inventory.
Google offers free Pixel Watch 2 with refurbished Pixel 7 or 7 Pro purchase
Google is offering a free Pixel Watch 2 and a Pixel 7 case with the purchase of a refurbished Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro from its online store. This limited-time deal provides a budget-friendly option for consumers interested in Google's ecosystem, despite the Pixel 7's approaching end-of-life for software updates.
Google's 67W Dual-Port USB-C Charger on Sale for $32.99, 45% Off
Google's 67W dual-port USB-C charger, the Pixel Flex charger, is currently on sale for $32.99, marking a 45% discount from its original price of just under $60. This is the lowest price recorded for this charger, which is compatible with Pixel phones and other USB-C devices.