New Android Feature Can Detect Impersonation Scams
Google has built a new security feature into its Phone app — the default calling app on Android phones — that can detect and warn you about scam calls where someone pretends to be someone you know. Scammers are increasingly using advanced techniques like spoofing phone numbers and using AI to make their voice sound like someone else. When calling from one Android phone to another, a silent, behind-the-scenes, encrypted RCS message confirms that the call is legitimate. But if that message is missing from an incoming call from a known contact, the Phone app silently checks with the phone of that contact. If that phone responds that it's not currently calling you, a scam alert appears. The feature can only work for contacts that also have Android phones. Google is starting to roll out the feature globally this month, starting with Pixel devices. It will be available on Android versions 12 and newer.
Google Brings Vibe Coding to Android
Google today announced an Android version of its AI Studio app for building apps using generative AI, enabling vibe coding on the go. Apps started on your phone can then be moved to a desktop environment to finish. Google also announced that the desktop version of AI Studio now includes native support for building Android apps, streamlining a process that previously required the installation of a full app-development software suite.
Google's Wear OS 7 Brings New Widgets, Live Updates
Google has announced version 7 of its Wear OS platform for smartwatches. The software is more efficient, delivering 10% better battery life. It also replaces "Tiles" with "Widgets" that are more like the home-screen widgets on Android. Also new are Live Update Notifications, notifications that update with progress info over time, a feature that Android gained in version 16. A new "Remote Output Switcher" in the system media controls will make it easier to choose where music should play. Google is also introducing a few features for developers that will enhance AI features and make it easier to develop workout apps.
Google Shows Off New Smart Glasses
Google has revealed more details of its forthcoming Android XR smart-glasses platform, including a sneak peak at two of the designs that will launch this fall. The first Android XR glasses will be an "audio" type that does not include any kind of display. Later, Google plans to launch a "display" type that does. All of them will act as an extension of your smartphone (iOS or Android), performing similarly to Bluetooth earbuds but with a camera. This lets you access the Gemini assistant hands-free, with both voice and visual input to answer questions and perform common tasks. Google has partnered with Samsung and Qualcomm for the technology, as well as Warby Parker and Gentle Monster for the designs. Google provided a number of examples for how they might be useful: You can ask Gemini about anything you see, such as learning the name of that cloud formation or quickly decoding a confusing parking sign. It can also do real-time language translation of someone speaking to you, or of text in front of you. It can give you turn-by-turn directions, knowing which way you're facing. You can manage calls and messages, or summarize missed messages. You can also snap photos and videos, and even mix in AI. For example, you can ask it to "take a picture and put everyone in funny hats". It can also access third-party apps such as getting an Uber. Gemini can be summoned by saying "Hey Google" or just tapping the side of the frame. Google did not detail any specific privacy features related to the camera. Specific launch timing and pricing was also not revealed.
Google Bringing Agentic AI to Flagship Android Phones
Google today announced several new AI features for Android, that will start to roll out with new Samsung and Pixel phones this summer. Gemini Intelligence is agentic AI that works across your apps to perform multi-steps tasks for you. Examples include "snagging a front-row bike for your spin class", "finding your class syllabus in Gmail then putting the books you need in your cart", or, while looking at a shopping list in your notes app, "build[ing] a shopping cart with all of the items for delivery". Google Intelligence can continue a task in the background while showing progress via a live notification. It will also stop and ask for final confirmation before completing a task. Create My Widget is a new "generative UI" feature of Gemini Intelligence that will create new, custom widgets for your home screen simply from your description. This might include a countdown to an event, meal suggestions, or a custom weather widget that only includes the specific data you're most interested in. Finally, Google is also making its auto-fill feature smarter, using Gemini's Personal Intelligence to fill in more fields.
Samsung Begins Public Beta Testing of Android 17
Samsung is releasing the first public beta version of One UI 9 — the company's spin on Android 17 — this week. Galaxy S26 series users can apply to join the beta program via the Samsung Members app. The beta software will start to become available this week in several countries, including the US. Notable new features in the beta OS include greater Quick Panel customization, as well as enhanced accessibility and security features. The final (non-beta) version of One UI 9 will debut on "upcoming Galaxy flagship devices later this year" and include new "advanced AI features" that may not be included in the beta version. Google is also offering public beta versions of Android 17 for its Pixel devices.
Cross-Platform RCS Messaging Gaining Encryption
Apple and Google have jointly announced the rollout of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messaging between Apple and Android devices. When RCS messages are end-to-end encrypted, they can't be intercepted and read while in transit between devices, improving privacy and security. Encryption will be on by default and will be automatically enabled over time for new and existing RCS conversations. On both platforms, a small lock icon will confirm when an RCS chat is encrypted. The feature requires iOS 26.5 or, on Android, the latest version of the Google Messages app. It also requires carrier support. The two companies still describe the feature as in "beta". E2EE was officially added to the RCS standard a little over a year ago, and Apple pledged to support it at that time.
New "Google Health" App to Replace Google Fit and Fitbit
Google is renaming the Fitbit app to "Google Health", adding new features, and positioning it to replace the existing Google Fit app. The new app integrates with other apps and APIs — including Health Connect, Apple Health, and the Google Health APIs — to sync and unify your health data in one place. A new layout offers four main tabs: Today, Fitness, Sleep, and Health. The Today and Health tabs offer customizable dashboards for quick access to your favorite metrics. The app also supports digital medical records and leaderboards for competing with friends on steps and cardio load. Existing users of the Fitbit app will receive an automatic update to Google Health starting May 19. Google will invite Google Fit users to migrate their data to Google Health "later this year".
Approximate Location Comes to Chrome on Android
Google is updating its Chrome web browser for Android devices to support the sharing of "Approximate" location data with web sites that do not need "Precise" location data, such as web sites offering local weather or news. This is a privacy-enhancing feature. Web sites that do need precise location data will still be able to request that from users. And new APIs will allow web developers to indicate which type of location data they need, to streamline the permissions process for users.
Supreme Court Takes on Geofence Warrants
The US Supreme Court is hearing arguments today on whether "geofence warrants" violate the Fourth Amendment's ban on unreasonable searches. Geofence warrants request info on all persons whose phones can be placed within a certain area at a certain time, without naming a specific person of interest. In this case, the warrant was served to Google, and used to find someone who robbed a bank in Virginia. The Supreme Court previously weighed in on phone location data in 2018 when it ruled that getting location data for a specific person required a warrant.
Samsung Sets End Date for its Own Messages App
This July, the Samsung Messages app for texting will stop working. Samsung's recommended replacement for its Android phones is Google Messages, which offers more functionality. Samsung started this transition last year when it made Google Messages the default messaging app on its new phones.
Google Brings Smart EV Route Planning to Maps in Android Auto
Google is updating Google Maps to include smarter route planning — including charging stops — for electric vehicles with Android Auto. You can now tell Maps your car model and current charge level to get a route that takes that info into account to estimate range, and suggest the best charging stops with compatible plugs. It can also recommend a charging duration at each stop, show an estimated charge level at each point of the trip, and give a trip duration that includes charging time. The feature is now available for "hundreds" of EV models from more than 15 brands, with more coming "soon".
Google Explains New Process for Side-Loading Unregistered Apps
As promised, Google has announced the details of how users will be able to side-load apps that are not registered with a "verified" developer. Google's new developer verification program is designed to combat malware that scammers convince their victims to install (side-load). The new "Advanced Flow" lets "power users" bypass this protection, but puts up several barriers designed to stymie scammers. Users must confirm that they are not being guided or instructed by someone else (a scammer) and that they understand the risks. Crucially, they must also restart their phone and wait 24 hours, interrupting the flow of a typical scam. They can then choose to enable the bypass for seven days, or indefinitely. As previously announced, there will also be a "limited distribution" developer account option, intended for students and hobbyists. This will let those developers register their apps without the full verification requirements and fee. Those apps will then be eligible for side-loading without requiring the "Advanced Flow", but will be limited to installation on no more than 20 devices.
Game Trials Coming to Google Play
Google has announced a new feature of its Google Play app store that will let users download a paid game and play it for free for a limited time. Unlike separate demo games, this Game Trial feature will let users download the full paid game but restrict play to a fixed amount of time before requiring payment to continue. Users will then be able to pick up right where they left off. Developers must opt in to the feature. Google is working on adding more options for developers, such as a custom time limit or an in-game event to end the trial. Google is also expanding its push to make Google Play a cross-platform games store, serving PC games in addition to Android. It biggest change in this area is "buy once play anywhere", which allows a single purchase, at a single price, that includes both Android and PC versions of the same game.
Google Lays Out Details, Timeline for New App Store Rules and Fees
Following its settlement with Epic Games, Google has announced the details and timeline of how its new (and improved) app store fees and rules will work. Google will now charge a Google Play Billing Fee of 5% (in the US, UK, and Europe) that is separate from the "Service Fee". Developers will also be able to offer non-Google billing options to avoid the Billing Fee, both within their app and externally. Even so, the total fees Google will collect will drop by 16–42% for many developers, especially larger ones. The standard Service Fee for in-app purchases will drop from 30% to 20%. For developers who participate in the Google Play Games Level Up program or the new Apps Experience Program, the Service Fee will be only 15%, although only for "new installs" after the new rules go into effect later this year. These two programs are designed to "incentivize building great software experiences across Android form factors associated with clear quality benchmarks and enhanced user benefits". The Service Fee for recurring subscriptions will be 10%. Google also continues to offer even lower rates for the first $1M in annual earnings, effectively giving smaller developers a discount. For those developers, total fees might not change as much, but they won't increase. Most of these changes will go into effect in the US, UK, and Europe by June 30, adding Australia and the two new app-quality programs by Sept. 30. Other countries will follow, with full global rollout by Sept 30, 2027. Google is also introducing a Registered App Store program. To qualify, a third-party app store must "meet certain quality and safety benchmarks". Such stores will then enjoy a "a more simplified installation flow" when downloaded/sideloaded from a web site. Google will launch Registered App Stores "with a version of a major Android release by the end of the year", although it will initially be enabled only outside the US, then brought to the US at a later date.
Android's New Update Brings New Find My Features
Google is starting to release a new quarterly update to Android 16. This update introduces several new features, but the two biggest are related to location sharing. The first is the ability to share your phone's location with someone else directly in the Messages app. The location continues to update for any specified period of time, or whenever you choose to stop. The second is the ability to share the location of a tracking tag with an airline (or other entity), to help find lost luggage. A new "Share item location" option in the Find My hub will generate a unique web address that can be shared with most major airlines on their lost-luggage forms. The update is known as Android 16 QPR3 (QPR = Quarterly Platform Release) and, according to Google, has started rolling out. Newer Google Pixel devices will get the update first, and now other manufacturers can prepare their own updates.
Aliro 1.0 Standardizes Digital Door Keys
The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) has announced the formal launch of Aliro 1.0, a new industry standard for digital door keys. Similar to digital car keys, the technology allows your phone or watch to unlock a smart door lock. Digital keys are stored in the device's native Wallet app, so no third-party apps are required. Samsung, Google, and Apple have all agreed to support the standard, as have many lock companies. The standard is designed not only for residential settings, but also offices, campuses, hotels, and more. It does not require Internet connectivity, so it can work even in underground parking garages and elevators. It supports multiple access modes: NFC for tap-to-unlock, as well as UWB + Bluetooth for complete hands-free access (walk toward door to unlock). A third mode relies only on Bluetooth but is "user-initiated", meaning the user must interact with their phone or watch to unlock. A future version of Aliro will support key sharing. The CSA is the same organization behind the Matter smart-home standard.
Qualcomm Intros New Wearable and Modem Chips
Qualcomm has announced the Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset for high-end wearable devices, as well as the X105 5G cellular modem and FastConnect 8800 Wi-Fi / Bluetooth modem. The Snapdragon Wear Elite is designed for smartwatches, pins, pendants, and other wearables, as well as more stationary "hub" devices. It supports six-radio connectivity, including 5G RedCap, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NB-NTN satellite, UWB, and GNSS (GPS). Its Hexagon NPU supports on-device AI models with up to 2 billion parameters. It also has an eNPU for always-on AI. Qualcomm claims it is the fastest wearable platform on the market. The company names Google, Motorola and, Samsung as partners "supporting the platform". The X105 5G modem-RF chipset sports a new RF transceiver that uses 30% less power and is 15% smaller. It also introduces 5G over NTN, for satellite connectivity that includes voice, data, and more, not just basic messaging. Qualcomm says it is also the first chipset to support quad-band GNSS (GPS, etc.). Although Qualcomm doesn't expect to create any actual 6G hardware before 2028, the company says the X105 "lays the groundwork for 6G development". Finally, the FastConnect 8800 chipset supports the very newest local-area radio standards, including Wi-Fi 8, Bluetooth 7, UWB, and Thread. It also supports newer features of those standards, such as Bluetooth Channel Sounding and Wi-Fi Ranging. A new 4x4 Wi-Fi radio configuration enables peaks speeds of up to 11.6 Gbps, and gigabit speeds at up to the 3x the range. Qualcomm typically introduces dedicated modem chips like these with the most advanced features, then later integrates those modems into new Snapdragon processor chips for phones and similar devices.
Google Reveals Key New Features of Android 17
Google has released the second beta version of Android 17 for developers. In doing so, it has revealed a list of new features that users can expect in the new OS. The first is Bubbles, which is a full multi-window capability, like a desktop OS. Although most useful on large-screen devices like foldables and tablets, it will work on regular phones as well. "Users can create an app bubble ... by long-pressing an app icon on the launcher." Also new is a Contacts Picker, which gives apps a more privacy-oriented way to gather specific contact data. It works similarly to the Photo Picker introduced in Android 13, in that it puts the OS in-between apps and contacts data, so that only minimum necessary contact data is shared with the app, instead of the app being given unrestricted access to all contacts data. A new "Handoff" API will enable cross-device app handoff, where users can start a task in an app on one device (such as an Android phone) and seamlessly continue the same task on another device (like an Android tablet). The API supports both native app-to-app handoffs, and app-to-web handoffs as a fallback. Android 17 will also support two new ranging technologies: UWB DL-TDOA for indoor navigation, and the Proximity Detection feature of the newest Wi-Fi standards. Another new privacy-enhancing API is the EyeDropper, which lets apps gather a color sample from any visible pixel without needing to "see" other apps. Finally, Android 17 introduces new restrictions on messaging APIs, intended to keep third-party apps from maliciously accessing one-time passcodes (OTP).
Google Beta-Testing Agentic AI in Android
Google is beginning to roll out an "agentic" version of Google Gemini AI for Android, meaning you can ask Gemini to perform multi-step tasks on its own on your phone. Gemini will carry out these steps in a "virtual window" in the background, with a live notification showing progress on the task over time (with the option to stop at any time). The feature is strictly limited to select apps and devices for now, and is only in "beta" testing status. The feature is launching first on the Google Pixel 10 series and Samsung Galaxy S26 series. Initially, it is designed to work only with "select apps in the food, grocery and rideshare categories". As an example, you could ask Gemini to "reorder your last meal on DoorDash".
Google Adds Satellite SOS to its Affordable Pixel Phone
Google has announced the Pixel 10a, its $499 phone for 2026. The most significant upgrade over the Pixel 9a is the addition of satellite connectivity for emergency situations. This Satellite SOS feature was first introduced with the higher-end models of the Pixel 9 series. It works similarly to Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite feature, where it requires specific hardware in the phone to work, connects to existing satellite networks, and often requires a process of aiming the phone at a specific point in the sky. The Pixel 10a has a handful of other upgrades, including faster charging, 11% brighter display, Gorilla Glass 7i cover glass on that display, and some new AI features like Auto Best Take, which combines faces from several frames of a group shot to "find the perfect shot." The 10a also has "the most recycled material of any A-series Pixel yet, including for the first time recycled cobalt, copper, gold and tungsten." Most other specs are similar to last year's Pixel 9a, including a 6.3-inch display, 48 megapixel main camera, 13 megapixel wide-angle camera, Google Tensor G4 chip, IP68 water and dust resistance, and seven years of software updates. The Pixel 10a will be available for $499 starting March 5. It comes in four colors: Fog, Obsidian, Berry, and Lavender.
Google Releases First Beta Version of Android 17
Google has released the very first beta version of Android 17, intended only for developers at this time. Google continues to refine its Android version release cycle; now, instead of specific, monthly "Developer Preview" and public beta versions, Google has a continuous "Canary channel" where those who opt in will get new features and APIs "as soon as they pass internal testing". Google will still be aiming to reach the "Platform Stability" milestone in March, to be followed by "several months" before the final Android 17 release. Google is also still planning a more minor Android update for the latter part of the year.
Google Links its AI to Your Gmail and Photos for "Personal Intelligence"
Google has introduced "Personal Intelligence" for Gemini. This new feature gives Google's Gemini AI tool access to your emails in Gmail and/or your photos in Google Photo to deliver more personalized results. This strictly opt-in (for now) feature can also link YouTube and Google Search, and works across platforms. Personal Intelligence doesn't let Google train its AI model on your personal data; instead it lets a pre-trained model access your data upon request. Personal Intelligence can be turned off at any time, and you can choose which apps to connect. It will explain where it sourced data for personalized results so you can verify yourself. It also has "guardrails" for sensitive topics like health.
Apple to Base Apple Intelligence on Google's AI
Apple and Google have released a statement confirming that "the next generation of Apple Foundation Models will be based on Google's Gemini models and cloud technology. These models will help power future Apple Intelligence features, including a more personalized Siri coming this year." Apple clarified that privacy features of Apple Intelligence, and Apple's privacy promises, will remain unchanged, including on-device processing and Private Cloud Compute where necessary. After struggling to deliver competitive AI features for several years, and delaying key Apple Intelligence features several times, Apple now says that it "determined that Google's Al technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models".
Google Brings Live Video Sharing to 911 Calls on Android
Google has launched a new feature of Android that makes it easy to share live video with an emergency dispatcher during an emergency phone call or text. Emergency Live Video on Android is a new feature that can be initiated by the dispatcher. "During an emergency call or text, a dispatcher can send a request to your phone to share live video. With a single tap, you can start securely streaming from your camera, allowing responders to quickly assess the situation and get you the right help in the moment." The feature requires no setup and works with a single tap. It is also optional (you can decline the request) and you can end video sharing at any time with a single tap. "The feature is rolling out today across the U.S., as well as select regions of Germany and Mexico, and is supported on Android phones running Android 8+ with Google Play services."
Play Store Customers to Receive Automatic Payments from $700 Million Google Settlement
New York Attorney General Letitia James has announced details of how consumers will receive payment as part of a $700 million settlement with Google over anticompetitive practices with its Play Store policies. In most cases, the payments will be calculated and paid automatically. Anyone who made a purchase via the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September 2023 should be eligible. Affected consumers started receiving notices this week. Google will try to make payments automatically by matching Play Store account email addresses and/or phone numbers with PayPal or Venmo accounts. Where an eligible Play Store account email address or phone number cannot be matched to a PayPal or Venmo account, "consumers have the option to create a new account or direct the payment to a PayPal or Venmo account at another email address or phone number." There will also be a supplemental claims process for consumers who don't receive an automatic payment. The settlement still needs to be formally approved by the court, which will happen no sooner than April 30, 2026. The lawsuit was led by the Attorneys General of New York, Utah, North Carolina, and Tennessee, and joined by Attorneys General of all 50 states.
Google's Second Release of Android 16 Brings Smart Notifications and More
Google today released an updated version of Android 16 (known as "Android 16 QPR2") with a range of new features. This is a new kind of update, the product of Google's new release schedule for Android. Now, major Android versions will come out every second quarter, and minor updates like this come each fourth quarter. (Unlike major version updates, these minor updates should require little work for app developers.) One key new feature is AI-powered notification summaries and prioritizing. Longer messages can be automatically summarized, and "Notification organizer automatically groups and silences your lower-priority notifications (such as promotions, news, and social alerts)". Another feature to help prioritize important communication is Call Reason in Google's Phone app, which will let you "mark call as urgent" when calling someone. This will display an "It's urgent" banner on the incoming call screen of the recipient. (This feature is "coming soon" and in beta.) Google is also updating Circle to Search so it can better determine whether a message is a scam or not. Google is also making key parental controls available in Settings (instead of having to open the Family Link app.) Google is also introducing a more aggressive "expanded" Dark theme option that will even dim apps not designed for dark mode. Finally, there are new options for customizing the look of app icons. As usual, Google Pixel devices will be first to receive the update, with other manufacturers following on their own schedule.
Google Adding AirDrop to Android
Google is improving Android's Quick Share wireless file-sharing feature by adding compatibility with Apple's similar AirDrop feature on iPhones. This will make it easier to share photos, videos, and other files with nearby phones, between Android phones and iPhones. The feature will have a phased rollout, starting today with the Google Pixel 10 series. Google says it plans to expand the rollout to "more Android devices" over time.
Google Loosens Stance on Side-loading Unverified Apps in Android
Google has announced new details of its plan to restrict side-loaded apps in Android to ones that come from "verified" developers. ("Side-loaded" meaning apps installed via means other than Google's Play app store, or soon, registered third-party app stores.) To address concerns that have been raised in response to the plans, Google has now announced two specific exceptions: First, Google will make an exception for apps that are only made available to a small group and not the general public. Developers of such apps will not have to go through "the full verification requirements". Second, Google will create "a new advanced flow that allows experienced users to accept the risks of installing software that isn't verified." This process will be designed specifically to thwart scammers that try to convince victims to install malware, the main issue the whole developer-verification system is intended to address. Google says it is still working out the details of these policies and systems, and is still inviting feedback on them.
Google Cracking Down on Battery-Draining Apps
Google is enhancing Android and its Play app store with a new power-efficiency metric for apps. If and when an app consistently crosses a threshold for "excessive" power usage, the app's public store page may show a warning about battery usage, and Google may limit how often the app is suggested. The new policy is slated to go into effect starting March 2026. More specifically, the metric measures "partial wake locks", which let apps keep the phone "awake" to perform background tasks even while the screen is off and the phone appears idle. Google's threshold for "excessive" is 2 cumulative hours in a 24 hour period. There are exceptions for certain activities such as audio playback and user-initiated data transfers. App developers can view this and other key metrics for their app(s) in Google's "Android vitals" dashboard.
Google Makes Maps Smarter, Conversational
Google is rolling out an update to its Google Maps app that integrates Gemini AI and adds several specific new features. Firstly, Google will now give directions using its knowledge of local landmarks, such as "turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant" instead of "turn right in 500 feet", and landmarks mentioned this way will be highlighted on the map. Secondly, voice search will be expanded to a full "conversational" AI assistant that can handle multi-step and multi-part questions and commands. For example, you will be able to say "Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route, something within a couple miles? … What's parking like there?" Followed by, "OK, let’s go there." Finally, if Maps is running, it will now proactively alert you to disruptions on the road ahead, even when you're not actively navigating to a destination. Landmark-based navigation and traffic alerts are rolling out now on Android and iOS in the US. Conversational AI will roll out on Android and iOS in the coming weeks "everywhere Gemini is available", with Android Auto "on the way."
Google, Epic Reach Settlement That Would Dramatically Reshape Play Store
Google and Epic Games have agreed to a new proposed settlement that would see Google revamp how its app ecosystem works, giving Epic most of what they have been seeking in years of litigation. Google has been on the losing end in a series of judgments throughout the process. Under the new agreement, Google's fee structure would become more complicated, but generally lower fees across the board. Google would allow third-party billing for in-app purchases, but still take a cut of either nine or 20 percent, depending on the purchase type and circumstances. Google would also separate out its cut for using Google Play billing as a separate five percent fee. Google will still require that developers provide Google Play billing as an option. Google also agrees to allow third-party app stores on Android, subject to its approval for security and privacy. The agreement, if approved by the judge in the case, would apply worldwide and stay in effect through June 2032.
Google Complies with Court Order on Third-Party Billing
Following a loss earlier this month with the US Supreme Court, Google is now officially allowing apps to direct US users out of Google's ecosystem for third-party in-app payments.
Google Fi Updates Web Messaging, SD Calling, and Wi-Fi Calling
Google today announced several various improvements to its Google Fi mobile service. First, Google Fi is updating its existing web-based calling and messaging option to support RCS, making it easier to share hi-res photos and videos from a computer or tablet. Second, when placing a voice call that is not enhanced with HD quality, such as a call to a land line, Google Fi will now apply AI-based audio processing to improve sound quality. This will both filter out background noise and "clarify voices" on both sides of the conversation. Finally, Google is expanding the "premium" Wi-Fi networks that a Pixel phone on Google Fi will automatically connect to, for features like Wi-Fi Calling. Google calls this feature Wi-Fi Auto Connect+, and newly supported venues include major airports, shopping malls, and stores. In total, this feature should now work at "millions of locations".
Google Turned Down by Supreme Court, Must Open up App Payments
Google has lost its final effort to delay new, court-ordered app store rules. The US Supreme Court has turned down Google's request to temporarily freeze parts of a key injunction. As as result, starting later this month, Google must allow developers to include external links in apps, enabling users to bypass Google's billing system. Google must comply even as it continues to appeal the case, which was started by Fortnite maker Epic Games. Additional provisions of the upheld injunction come into effect next year, including a requirement that Google allow users to download rival app stores within its Play Store.
Apple, Google Remove ICE Tracking Apps
Apple and Google have both removed apps from their app stores that let people report and see the locations of ICE agents. US Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement that "ICEBlock is designed to put ICE agents at risk just for doing their jobs" and "we reached out to Apple [Thursday] demanding they remove the ICEBlock app from their App Store — and Apple did so". Apple says "We created the App Store to be a safe and trusted place to discover apps. ... Based on information we've received from law enforcement about the safety risks associated with ICEBlock, we have removed it and similar apps from the App Store". Separately but just one day later, Google says it "removed similar apps for violations of our policies". Google says it was not contacted by the Justice Department about the apps. Joshua Aaron, the developer of ICEBlock, says he designed the app to help immigrants who are afraid of being deported. ICEBlock was downloaded more than 1 million times before it was banned.
Google Brings Conversational AI Photo Editing to More Phones
Google is rolling out its new AI-powered "conversational editing" feature in Google Photos to more phones, (beyond the Pixel 10 series). When editing a photo, a new "Help me edit" text box at the bottom lets you simply tell it what you want to do, which can be traditional edits, full generative AI, or anything in-between. Google's examples include: "remove the reflections and fix the washed out colors", "restore this old photo", "remove the cars in the background", "make it look like he's in Waikiki and add a tropical drink to the right", or even just "make it better". It can take multiple requests at once, or in series. Google says the new feature is "starting to roll out" to all "eligible" Android users in the US.
Google Revamps Gaming Platform with new Sidekick and Profiles
Google has announced a series of updates to Google Play that focus mainly on gaming. The biggest new feature might be the Play Games Sidekick, an in-game overlay that includes a variety of relevant info, tools, and shortcuts. This includes quick shortcuts for screenshots, screen recording, Do Not Disturb, and going Live on YouTube. It also includes your profile and points, game tips, achievements, streaks, quests, and coupons. For "select" games, a Gemini Live AI assistant can interactively offer verbal game advice, based on what it sees on your screen in real time. Google is also revamping its platform-wide player profiles and points system. Finally, Google is officially launching Google Play Games on PC, expanding its game-platform ambition beyond Android after a beta period.
Google Introduces Continuous On-Screen Language Translation
Google has announced an update to its "Circle to Search" feature on Android that enables continuous language translation of everything on the screen, even as you scroll and change apps. To access the feature, long-press the home button or navigation bar to start Circle to Search, tap the Translate icon, and tap "scroll and translate". The feature will come first to select Samsung Galaxy devices starting this week.
Google Brings AI Text Tools to its Keyboard
Google has announced an update to Gboard — its default keyboard software for Android — that introduces system-wide AI writing tools. This includes spelling and grammar fixes, proofreading, and rewriting in a different "tone", such as "formal, expressive or concise". This AI runs on-device (not in the cloud), ensuring privacy.
