From 9to5Google · 40 stories
Google Chrome to Remove Manifest V2 Extensions by August 2026
Google announced that all Manifest V2 extensions will be removed from the Chrome Web Store by August 31, 2026. While users can keep previously installed extensions, they will not receive updates or be reinstallable, marking the end of support for older extensions as Google transitions fully to Manifest V3.
Google Voice introduces paid plans with call recording and Gemini features
Google Voice now offers two paid plans, Starter and Standard, for users without a Workspace subscription. The plans include features like call recording, GPT-powered transcription, and automated call handling, targeting small businesses and individual users.
Pixel Recorder faces bug, leading to missing audio files for some users
A bug in the Pixel Recorder app is preventing some users from saving audio files, with multiple reports confirming the issue. Affected users state that recordings do not appear in the app or Files app, potentially impacting important recordings.
Samsung raises prices on several Galaxy smartphones in India again
Samsung has raised prices on multiple low-end Galaxy smartphones in India as of July 4, marking the fifth increase. Devices affected include the Galaxy A06 5G and Galaxy A07 4G, with hikes of approximately ₹1,000 (~$10 USD) across configurations.
Android Auto and CarPlay launch motorcycle-optimized navigation with Sygic
Sygic has introduced a new motorcycle-optimized navigation feature on Android Auto and CarPlay, now available in the v26.4 update. The app provides vital information such as weather, terrain profiles, and unique visual alerts for hazards, enhancing the riding experience.
Honor's foldable aims for 7,000 mAh battery, the highest for the form factor
Honor is developing a wide foldable smartphone with a 7,000 mAh battery, surpassing Samsung's Z Fold 8 battery. This push reflects a broader industry trend towards larger batteries in foldable devices. Additionally, Honor's 'Robot Phone' featuring a gimbal camera is set to launch in August 2024, showcasing new imaging technology and AI capabilities.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Watch 9 reservation program to begin soon, leak reveals
Samsung is expected to open reservations for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Watch 9 starting July 8. The reservation program typically includes user incentives, though specific benefits remain unclear until the announcement.
Google Maps restores offensive location names in Poland
Google Maps has begun restoring the original names of various locations in Poland that were recently replaced with offensive labels. The names included landmarks and government offices, resulting from community edits that bypassed Google's moderation efforts.
Samsung leaks Galaxy Watch 9, Ultra 2, and Galaxy Buds On ahead of launch
Samsung has inadvertently confirmed the Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2, along with new Galaxy Buds, ahead of their expected launch later this month. Screenshots from the Samsung Members app show the names, while the Galaxy Wearable app hints at earbuds branded as 'Galaxy Buds On.'
Mint Mobile offers all plans for $15/month amid Google Pixel phone shortage
Mint Mobile has lowered all its plans to $15/month for new customers without a defined end date. This promotion coincides with a sudden unavailability of Google Pixel phones, potentially awaiting new releases from Google.
Nothing Ear (3a) leaks reveal new colors and compact design ahead of launch
New leaks show the Nothing Ear (3a) earbuds in vibrant colors and a smaller case before their official launch. The design closely resembles the previous model, with added features like 12mm drivers and LDAC support.
Samsung to raise prices for Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 by 10%
Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9 series and Watch Ultra 2 will see a price increase of approximately 10%, as reported by WinFuture. This change, which adds €30 to €50 per model compared to the Galaxy Watch 8, suggests Samsung anticipates consumers will support the higher prices for additional features and performance.
Samsung's Galaxy Wearable app leak reveals new features and design
A leaked version of the Galaxy Wearable app for Galaxy Watch showcases a redesigned interface and new features. Notably, it introduces a dedicated watch face tab and confirms several health features for the upcoming Galaxy Watch 9.
Android Auto update causes crashes for beta users
Recent updates to Android Auto, particularly version 17.2, are crashing for beta users. This disrupts functionality, reverting to the car's native systems after a few minutes of use, affecting user experience significantly.
Gemini app upgrades introduced with Google AI Plus and AI Pro subscriptions
Google's Gemini app now offers enhanced features for subscribers of AI Plus ($4.99/month) and AI Pro ($19.99/month). Users can benefit from increased usage limits, larger context windows, and additional project management capabilities, impacting productivity for users at different tiers.
Nothing Ends Software Updates for Phone (1) with Final July 2026 Patch
Nothing has confirmed that its Phone (1) has reached the end of its software support, with the final update delivering the July 2026 security patch. The device initially launched with Android 12 and received a total of three major Android updates and four years of security support, marking an important chapter in Nothing's software development journey.
Zawa Launches AI Design Platform for Brand Building
Zawa has introduced an all-in-one AI design platform aimed at helping businesses create logos and brand identities. The platform simplifies the branding process by offering tools for generating logos, enhancing images, and creating social media content, specifically targeting small businesses.
Google's Pixel 11 lineup expected to feature minor updates only
The Pixel 11 series will reportedly follow the design of previous models with minor hardware enhancements. This approach may reflect a plateau in mobile hardware advancements, setting expectations for consumers regarding significant changes in design or features.
User Identifies Ongoing Issue with Google's Gemini on Android Auto
A user has reported that Google's Gemini for Android Auto continues to speak after touchscreen interactions are completed, causing frustration. This issue has persisted since Gemini's rollout in November 2022, highlighting inconsistent functionality compared to the previous Assistant on Android Auto.
Readers highlight notable missing features in Google Pixel phones
A recent poll of 9to5Google readers identified key missing features in Google Pixel phones, including backup and restore options akin to iPhone's seamless transfer. Additional feedback also highlighted limitations in homescreen and lockscreen management, indicating a need for more customizable features.
Leaked videos reveal Samsung's Galaxy Glasses design and features
Leaked videos showcase Samsung's Galaxy Glasses, highlighting their slim design and control features. The glasses, resembling Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, include touchpad sensors and camera controls, enhancing integration with Android devices.
Samsung Galaxy Watch to Replace Vascular Load with Blood Pressure Trends
Samsung will remove the Vascular Load feature from Galaxy Watch, pivoting to blood pressure trend monitoring starting with One UI 9 Watch update. This change affects US users and focuses on broader, ongoing health trends over individual measurements.
Google Pixel users report Wi-Fi and gaming issues after Android 17 update
Some Google Pixel users are experiencing Wi-Fi disconnects and gameplay lag after updating to Android 17. These issues contribute to ongoing frustrations with network performance and device stability following major Android releases.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and S26 Ultra models receive significant discounts
Samsung is discounting all Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra models by $350, with open-box units up to $456 off. Additionally, the Galaxy S26 Ultra sees a $350 price drop on both Amazon and Samsung's official site.
Google discontinues Nest x Yale Lock, pushes Yahoo Matter Smart Lock
Google has removed the Nest x Yale Lock from its Store, moving to the Yale Matter Smart Lock. The change marks a shift, as Google is no longer selling any smart locks directly.
Samsung Messages to Shut Down July 6, Transition to Google Messages
Samsung will discontinue its Messages app on July 6, transitioning users to Google Messages. This shift follows a trend away from Samsung's proprietary app in favor of RCS and Google's offering as the default messaging platform.
Google Pixel users report missing calls with phones not ringing
Google Pixel owners report that their devices are failing to ring for incoming calls, resulting in missed calls. This issue, affecting primarily those on Android 17, has prompted users to suggest partial resets or changes in the Google Phone app settings as potential fixes.
Google discusses Android 17 features and introduces Android Halo
Google's Sameer Samat outlines key features of Android 17, including the Android Halo concept for AI interactions. The focus shifts away from AI terminology to user benefits, despite many features being AI-driven.
Apple's iOS 27 and Google's Android 17 Introduced: Key Features Compared
Apple has launched iOS 27 and Google has released Android 17, showcasing significant customization features in each OS. Notably, iOS 27 offers enhanced lockscreen and homescreen widget customization options compared to Android 17, which has limited customization capabilities.
Google Health releases CLI for data access and custom tool building
Google Health has released a command-line interface (CLI) for accessing health data and developing tools. The CLI supports over 40 health metrics, allowing users to automate data management and integrate with AI agents.
Anker's Eufy launches SmartTrack Card E40 for Android Find Hub at $34.99
Anker's Eufy has launched the SmartTrack Card E40, its first tracker for the Android Find Hub, priced at $34.99. After delays since its initial announcement in 2024, the tracker aims to compete in a growing market for tracking devices that utilize Android's dual-network configuration.
Lenovo teases Legion Y700 Infinite tablet with OLED and 5G support
Lenovo announced the upcoming Legion Y700 Infinite tablet, featuring an OLED display and 5G connectivity. This new variant adds significant enhancements over its predecessors and may cater specifically to the gaming community in China.
Google launches 'Signatures' app for Pixel and select Android devices
Google is rolling out a new 'Signatures' app aimed at storing digital signatures on Pixel and select Android devices. This app is part of the June 2026 Play system update, although its exact functionalities and integrations remain unclear.
Retroid Pocket 6 adds official support for LineageOS
The Retroid Pocket 6 now officially supports LineageOS, enabling users to upgrade from Android 13 to a version based on Android 16. This update offers significant performance improvements, enhanced battery efficiency, and access to regular security updates.
CMF Launches Clip Pro Open Earbuds with Smart Dial Case for $99
Nothing's sub-brand CMF has released its first open earbuds, the CMF Clip Pro, priced at $99. These earbuds feature a clip-style design for situational awareness, 10.8mm drivers, and a charging case with a "Smart Dial" for controls, offering 10 hours of battery life per charge. This launch expands CMF's audio product line with a new form factor.
Light Unveils $299 Minimalist Flip Phone, the Light Flip, Launching in 2024
Light has announced the Light Flip, an affordable, minimalist flip phone priced at $299. Slated for early 2024 release, it combines retro design elements with modern features, excluding distracting apps to target users seeking simplicity. It retains tactile qualities, harking back to classic models like the Moto Razr.
Roku Increases Streaming Hardware Prices by Up to $50 Across All Models
Roku has raised prices on its streaming hardware, with some devices increasing by as much as $50, due to an ongoing memory shortage. This change affects all Roku models, including the Streaming Stick and Roku Ultra, and follows a similar price adjustment by Apple for its devices.
Xreal Releases Budget-Friendly A01 Plus AR Glasses for $299
Xreal has launched the A01 Plus AR glasses for $299, aimed at cost-conscious consumers seeking an affordable AR experience. These glasses, designed for media consumption, offer dual-layer Micro-OLED displays with 1,600-nit brightness and weigh 62 grams. While they lack some features of pricier models, the A01 Plus provides a budget option for portable gaming and movies.
Google Play Integrates Venmo as a Payment Option for Apps, Games, and Subscriptions
Google Play has added Venmo as a payment option for purchases including apps, games, add-ons, and digital content. Users can now link their Venmo account to pay for subscriptions and in-app content using their Venmo balance or linked payment methods, expanding payment choices within Google's services, including YouTube.
Sunbird Relaunches iMessage App for Android on Google Play Store
Sunbird has relaunched its iMessage for Android application on the Google Play Store, making it publicly available after a beta period and a three-year hiatus. The app aims to provide iMessage functionality, including blue chat bubbles, reactions, and high-quality video, to Android users, despite previous security concerns that led to its temporary shutdown in 2023.