From 9to5Google · 40 stories
Spotify Experiences Partial Outage Affecting Search and Other Functions
Spotify users reported a partial outage this morning, with core functions like search and Spotify Connect becoming inaccessible. Spotify has confirmed awareness of the issue and is investigating, while music playback appears less affected for some users.
Android September 2026 Google System Updates Introduce Motion Assist and Play Store Changes
Google released its September 2026 system updates for Android, bringing improvements to Play services and Play Store across various devices. Key updates include a new motion assist feature for phones, enhanced real-time metric data for Wear OS, and local currency purchasing options in the Play Store for several new regions.
TCL launches new 'Designer Series' Google TVs with flush mount and matte display
TCL introduced its new "Designer Series" of Google TVs, featuring a flush-mount design and matte display to integrate into home decor. This series offers 4K QLED and QD-Mini LED panel options, starting at $899.
Google confirms Photos bug preventing editing and deleting, fix coming soon
Google has confirmed a bug in Google Photos that prevents users from sharing, editing, and deleting images after they have been edited. The company is working on a fix, which is expected to roll out "ASAP." This bug affects the usability of Google Photos for those impacted.
Motorola's upcoming wide foldable, possibly named 'Razr Flex,' to feature smaller displays
A leak suggests Motorola is developing a new wide, book-style foldable phone, internally called "Razr Flex," with significantly smaller outer and inner displays compared to existing models. This device, codenamed "Parker," is expected to launch in mid-December and features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor and a 5,000 mAh battery, potentially offering a more compact foldable option.
Pixel Buds App Update Adds Gemini Audio Controls
Google's Pixel Buds companion app updated to version 1.0.981607934, enabling Gemini to control Pixel Buds audio settings. This allows users to adjust EQ, ANC, conversation detection, and touch controls via voice commands.
TCL Note A1 Nxtpaper Tablet Reviewed for Note-Taking and General Use
The TCL Note A1 Nxtpaper tablet, featuring a low-glare matte display and stylus, aims to provide a paper-like writing experience while retaining full tablet functionality. However, the device is described as not fully excelling as either a dedicated note-taker or a general-purpose tablet. This matters as it highlights the challenges in combining specialized e-paper alternatives with standard tablet features.
Google iOS apps adopt Liquid Glass and Material 3 Expressive design elements
Google is updating its iOS applications, including Google Photos and Google Health, to incorporate the Liquid Glass translucent material and Material 3 Expressive design language. This change introduces translucent bottom bars and updated buttons, moving away from the older Google Material Theme design.
Pixel Weather widget adds manual refresh button in version 1.1.20260716.x
The Pixel Weather homescreen widget now includes a manual refresh button, allowing users to update weather data without opening the full application. This update improves convenience for users checking weather forecasts directly from their homescreen.
Google's Create My Widget App Detailed for Android Phones and Googlebooks
Google's 'Create My Widget' app, set to launch in early October, has been detailed via a Play Store listing, showing its interface and capabilities on Android phones and Googlebooks. This app allows users to generate custom widgets from various categories, offering a new way to personalize device homescreens.
Google Messages introduces official chat thread for feature updates
Google Messages is rolling out an official chat thread to inform users about new features, similar to WhatsApp and Telegram. This "RCS for Business" thread provides updates and allows interaction to learn about new functionalities within the app.
Google to remove 'Heads up' walking alerts from Android's Digital Wellbeing
Google is removing the "Heads up" feature from Android's Digital Wellbeing, which previously provided alerts to users walking while looking at their phones. The removal was indicated by strings found in the Digital Wellbeing v1.48.975819457.beta release. This change affects a minor safety feature designed to reduce smartphone distraction during walking.
Motorola Razr Fold, Razr+ (2026), and Razr (2026) now available on Verizon
Verizon now offers the Motorola Razr Fold, Razr+ (2026), and Razr (2026) foldable phones, expanding Motorola's presence on the carrier. The Moto Watch Ultra, a Wear OS smartwatch, is also available and can be obtained for free with the purchase of a Motorola phone and a connected watch line.
Android Auto Update Allows Google Maps Driving Avatar Customization Directly on Car Display
Google is rolling out an update for Android Auto that enables users to change their Google Maps driving avatar directly from the car's display. Previously, this customization required setting the avatar on a connected phone, making the process more convenient for users.
Google Home Bug Causes Nest Doorbell Notifications to Use American Accent Globally
A bug in Google Home causes Nest Doorbell notifications to be announced in an American accent, regardless of the user's set language or dialect. This issue, also affecting other smart home devices like Bosch washing machines, emerged after the September Google Home update and is currently being addressed by Google.
Android Auto game support exits beta, opening to all developers
Google has moved game support on Android Auto from a limited beta to general availability, allowing all developers to publish games for car displays. This change enables users to play games on their car's screen when the vehicle is parked, such as during charging or waiting.
Nothing OS 5.0 Open Beta for Android 17 Rolls Out to Nothing Phone (4a) and (3a) Series
Nothing has released the Nothing OS 5.0 open beta, based on Android 17, for its Phone (4a), Phone (3a) Pro, and Phone (3a) devices. This update brings UI changes, new widgets, camera app updates, and a dedicated Glyph app, aligning these models with the Phone (3)'s beta access.
OnePlus 16 Design Revealed Ahead of China Launch, Global Availability Unlikely
OnePlus officially revealed the design of its new OnePlus 16 smartphone, which will launch soon in China. The device is not expected to be available in global markets, continuing OnePlus's shift to focus primarily on the Chinese market.
Gmail adds 'Copy code' shortcut for 2FA on Android and iOS
Gmail for Android and iOS now includes a 'Copy code' button for two-factor authentication codes directly in the inbox view. This feature allows users to copy 2FA codes to their clipboard without opening the email, simplifying the login process.
Pixel Now Playing Updates with Interface Tweaks and Recognized Music Notifications
Google's Pixel Now Playing app received an update (version 2026.08.27.x) that reintroduces Recognized Music Notifications and modifies the user interface. These changes improve one-handed navigation and provide silent alerts for identified songs, enhancing the user experience for Pixel device owners.
Google Keep Android widget updated with new floating action button and edge-to-edge design
Google Keep for Android updated its "Note collection" homescreen widget, replacing the Material You sidebar with a circular floating action button. This change provides an edge-to-edge design, allowing more note content to be visible.
Android Canary 2609 Introduces Quick Settings Unlock Requirement for Pixel Devices
Android Canary 2609 for Pixel devices adds a new security feature that requires device unlock to change Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Mobile Data, and Airplane Mode settings from the Quick Settings panel. This update enhances device security by preventing unauthorized network changes when the phone is locked.
Philips Hue Bridge Pro Price Increases to $139 in US, Larger Hikes Globally
The price of the Philips Hue Bridge Pro has increased from $99 to $139 in the US, a 40% hike, with similar or larger increases observed in other regions like Europe. These price adjustments, which began in mid-to-late August, are attributed to rising memory costs for the device's 8GB RAM.
Boox Launches Three New E-Ink Devices, Including Palma 3, Running Android 16
Boox announced three new e-ink devices, the Note Air6 C, Note Mini C, and Palma 3, all shipping with Android 16. The Note Air6 C is available now, featuring a new processor, improved refresh rate, and AI capabilities, while the Note Mini C and Palma 3 will be released later. This update brings a recent Android version to e-ink hardware, enhancing app compatibility and performance for these specialized devices.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Reportedly Facing Price Hikes in Korea Starting October 1
A new report indicates that Samsung plans to increase the prices of its Galaxy S26 series smartphones in Korea by approximately $100, effective October 1. This potential price adjustment is attributed to rising component costs and recent price hikes by competitors like Apple.
Google Maps Speedometer Disappears for Some Android Auto Users
Some Android Auto users report that the Google Maps speedometer feature, recently rolled out, has disappeared from their interface. This issue occurs alongside ongoing problems with missing traffic data and signal indicators for other users, indicating inconsistencies in Android Auto updates.
Google Wallet Android App Redesigns Passes to Full-Screen View
Google Wallet on Android is rolling out a redesign for passes, making them full-screen with brand-themed backgrounds. This update applies to loyalty cards and boarding passes, changing how users interact with key actions and settings.
Dbrand Launches MNML Brand for Thin Smartphone Cases and Accessories
Dbrand introduced a new brand called MNML, offering thin, 2mm smartphone cases with a sandstone finish for Google Pixel, Apple iPhone, and Samsung Galaxy models. The new line also includes magnetic wallets and AirPods cases, available online and at Best Buy.
Google Health 5.07 Update Improves Manual Logging, Maps, and Health Connect Stability
Google Health version 5.07 is rolling out with updates to manual workout logging, map performance, and fixes for Health Connect. These changes improve data entry and visualization for fitness tracking and address connectivity issues for Android users.
LTTStore Launches "TrueSpec" USB-C Cables with Printed Specifications
LTTStore has introduced "TrueSpec" USB-C cables that feature printed specifications directly on the cable itself and on the packaging. This initiative addresses the long-standing problem of identifying the capabilities of different USB-C cables, which can vary widely in power delivery and data transfer speeds.
YouTube details NFL Sunday Ticket 2026 season pricing and availability, including new subscriber discount
YouTube announced pricing and availability for NFL Sunday Ticket for the 2026-2027 season. New subscribers can get a 50% discount, bringing the price to $240/year, while existing subscribers will pay $378/year via YouTube TV or $480/year via YouTube Primetime Channels. The announcement clarifies which NFL games are included and excluded from the Sunday Ticket package.
Sony releases Android 17 update for five Xperia phone models
Sony has begun rolling out its Android 17 update to a limited selection of five Xperia smartphone models. The update introduces features like Desktop mode, expanded customization for Quick Settings and the Lock screen, and improved screen recording.
Honor Magic 9 Pro Max with ARRI-powered camera and iPhone-like design to launch September 28
Honor officially revealed its new flagship smartphone, the Magic 9 Pro Max, featuring a large ARRI-powered camera system and an iPhone-like design. The device will be fully unveiled on September 28 in China, marking an expansion of Honor's premium smartphone lineup.
Google Messages rolls out new features including chat themes and iOS RCS improvements
Google Messages is rolling out several new features, including customizable chat themes, a redesigned long-press menu, and enhanced RCS support for Android-iPhone conversations when iOS 27 launches. These updates aim to improve the user experience and interoperability of the messaging platform.
Xiaomi Launches Pad 9 Pro Max Tablet with 13.3-inch Display and Android 17 in China
Xiaomi has introduced the Pad 9 Pro Max, a new Android tablet featuring a 13.3-inch display, Android 17, and a 12,000 mAh battery, initially available in China. This release expands Xiaomi's tablet offerings with a high-end model, providing consumers with more choices in the large-screen tablet market.
Pebblebee Releases New "Neon Pulse" Colorways for Clip 5 Android Find Hub Trackers
Pebblebee has introduced new "Hotline Pink" and "Techno Lime" color options for its Clip 5 Android Find Hub trackers, available immediately. These new colors provide cosmetic variations to the existing tracker model, which retains its original functionality and integration with both Android Find Hub and Apple Find My networks.
Orbitkey Integrates Google Find Hub and Apple Find My Tracking into New Key Organizer
Orbitkey has released a new Key Organizer Tracker that combines its key organizer design with built-in Google Find Hub and Apple Find My tracking capabilities. This integration allows users to locate their keys using either network, adding a tracking feature to a common everyday carry item.
Google Photos Reduces Trash Bin Retention Period to 30 Days from 60 Days
Google Photos has updated its trash bin policy, reducing the retention period for deleted photos and videos from 60 days to 30 days, effective September 2026. This change gives users less time to recover accidentally deleted media before it is permanently removed.
Samsung to Discontinue 'Quick Measure' and 'AR Doodle' Apps by December 2026
Samsung is discontinuing its 'Quick Measure' and 'AR Doodle' augmented reality applications for Galaxy phones, with services ending on December 31, 2026. The company stated that it plans to return with improved services in the future, but did not provide a timeline.
Gemini Android overlay adds bubble minimization for multitasking
The Gemini overlay on Android now includes a "Minimize" button, allowing users to collapse the interface into a floating bubble for multitasking. This feature provides a quicker way to return to conversations or perform other tasks while waiting for Gemini's responses.