Tag: Android 16

  • Android Smartphones Evolving: Lock Screen Widgets Turn Them into Smart Screens

    Android Smartphones Evolving: Lock Screen Widgets Turn Them into Smart Screens

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google Pixel tablet’s lock screen widgets feature will soon be available for third-party tablets with Android 16.
    2. Android 16 will introduce lock screen widgets for smartphones in standby mode, similar to Apple’s feature for iPhones.
    3. Users may be able to place more than two widgets and create multiple pages in the standby mode.
    4. Standby mode will allow Android smartphones to function as Chromecast receivers for streaming videos and music.
    5. The upcoming Google Pixel 10 series may support magnetic Qi2 chargers without needing a special case.

    The Google Pixel tablet can already show widgets on its lock screen, and with the upcoming Android 16, this feature will be available for third-party tablets as well. Recently, Android Authority discovered in the code of a beta version of Android 16 that Google is also working on lock screen widgets for smartphones, planning to incorporate them into a standby mode.

    Standby Mode Features

    By doing this, Google seems to be adopting a function that iPhone users have enjoyed for many years: standby mode. This feature automatically activates when an iPhone is on a Qi2 or MagSafe charger and positioned in landscape orientation. Apple allows its users to add up to two widgets, turning the iPhone into a mini smart display that can manage smart home devices or show upcoming calendar events.

    Visual Demonstration

    In the video below, Android Authority showcases an early beta version that illustrates what Google’s lock screen widgets could potentially look like. The video reveals that Google may allow users to place more than two widgets and even create multiple pages of widgets to navigate. There’s a button located in the bottom right corner of the screen that lets users exit this standby mode.

    Hub Mode Capabilities

    Within standby mode, Android smartphones will also act as Chromecast receivers, enabling users to stream videos and music wirelessly to their devices. This feature is reportedly called “Hub Mode.” The development of an alternative to Apple’s standby mode might suggest that the upcoming Google Pixel 10 series will support magnetic Qi2 chargers without needing to purchase a special protective case with magnets.

    Source:
    Link

    Android Smartphones Evolving: Lock Screen Widgets Turn Them into Smart Screens

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Android 16 Enhances Security with Google’s Advanced Protection

    Android 16 Enhances Security with Google’s Advanced Protection

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google introduced a new design for Android 16 with enhanced features and security options.
    2. The Advanced Protection feature provides a high level of security by preventing individual security components from being turned off.
    3. Advanced Protection uses a “defense-in-depth” approach, managing key security settings across the system and Google apps.
    4. New features include intrusion logging, enhanced automatic locking, theft detection, Inactivity Reboot, and USB Protection.
    5. Inactivity Reboot restarts the device after 72 hours of inactivity, and USB Protection limits connections to charging only when the device is locked.

    Google has unveiled the fresh design of Android 16 just yesterday. During the announcement, various new features were showcased along with changes in design. Additionally, Google shared information about a crucial new security option on its security blog: Advanced Protection. This feature is similar to the lockdown mode that iPhones have, and it aims to elevate the security of Android devices significantly.

    A New Level of Security

    Advanced Protection serves as a primary security setting for devices. When activated, it guarantees that Android’s top security standards work in unison to offer users robust protection against online threats, harmful apps, and potential data leaks. The unique aspect of Advanced Protection is that it does not allow individual security components to be turned off, either accidentally or through malicious software. Google is implementing a clear “defense-in-depth” approach here, where multiple layers of security are interconnected. Advanced Protection functions as a central control point that manages key security settings across the system and many Google applications like Chrome, Google Messages, and the Google phone app. There are also plans to integrate it with third-party apps.

    New and Improved Features

    Some security features that operate in Advanced Protection mode have already been present in current Android versions, while others have been specifically created for this new protection mode. A key element is the new intrusion logging, which offers detailed security analyses if a compromise is suspected. Familiar security features like automatic locking and theft detection have now been enhanced with Inactivity Reboot and USB Protection. The Inactivity Reboot feature restarts the device after 72 hours of no activity while in a locked state, rendering data unreadable until it is unlocked. Meanwhile, USB Protection limits new USB connections to charging only by default when the device is locked, helping to guard against physical attacks.

    Conclusion

    For more details, you can find the full information on the Google Online Security Blog: Advanced Protection: Google’s Strongest Security for Mobile Devices.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Google Unveils New Android 16 Design for Pixel 9 and More

    Google Unveils New Android 16 Design for Pixel 9 and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Timeline: Android 16 will be officially released in June, with Material 3 Expressive UI rolling out later this year, starting with Google Pixel smartphones.

    2. Emotional Engagement: Material 3 Expressive focuses on creating a more emotionally engaging UI with bolder colors and unique shapes for app icons.

    3. Enhanced Animations: The new design includes broader and smoother animations for various user interactions, like adjusting volume or accessing quick settings.

    4. Blurred Backgrounds: A greater emphasis on blurred backgrounds is introduced to add depth to the interface without affecting performance or battery life.

    5. Live Updates Feature: The new Live Updates feature will provide real-time information for delivery and navigation apps on the lock screen, status bar, and quick settings.

    After the recent leak of the new Material 3 Expressive design by Google, the fresh appearance of Android 16 has been officially revealed today. The final version of Android 16 is set to launch in June, while the Material 3 Expressive user interface will be rolled out later this year, starting with Google Pixel smartphones like the Pixel 9. Smartphones from brands that have their own proprietary user interface, such as Samsung’s One UI, will probably not adopt Material 3 Expressive.

    Enhanced Emotional Appeal

    Material 3 Expressive aims to make the Android 16 user interface more emotionally engaging. To achieve this, Google is incorporating even bolder, user-customizable colors, along with unique shapes, such as app icons shaped like stars or diamonds. The video included below displays many animations that are both broader and smoother than they were previously. Whether it’s adjusting a volume slider, deleting an email, or accessing the quick settings, Google is ensuring every feature is refreshed.

    Depth with Blurred Backgrounds

    The greater emphasis on blurred backgrounds is designed to add a sense of depth to the interface. These updates are not expected to impact the performance or battery life of smartphones. While Google is changing the layout of the lock screen and the icons in the menu bar, the core structure and functionality of Android will remain largely the same, meaning users won’t need to relearn how to navigate their Android devices.

    New Live Updates Feature

    There is, however, an exciting new feature: Live Updates for delivery and navigation apps. These live updates will be visible on the lock screen, status bar, and in the quick settings, offering real-time information about takeaway deliveries and tracked packages. The quick settings can be customized in various ways to allow more options to fit onto one screen.

    Google’s innovation continues to impress, making significant strides in enhancing user experience.

    Source:
    Link

    Google Unveils New Android 16 Design for Pixel 9 and MoreGoogle Unveils New Android 16 Design for Pixel 9 and More

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Google’s Battery Health Feature Now for Pixel 8a and Newer Models

    Google’s Battery Health Feature Now for Pixel 8a and Newer Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Battery Health Feature: Android 16 introduces a Battery Health menu to monitor battery deterioration, currently in beta.

    2. Limited Availability: This feature is exclusive to newer Pixel models, specifically the Pixel 8a and Pixel 9 series.

    3. Accessing the Feature: Users can find the Battery Health menu in the Settings under the Battery section, showing battery capacity compared to a new one.

    4. Older Models Excluded: The feature is not available on older Pixel devices, which may disappoint users who could benefit from it.

    5. Concerns Over Updates: The exclusion of older models raises questions about the seven years of promised updates and access to significant features.

    Android 16 is introducing a feature that allows users to monitor the health of their device’s battery. Currently in beta, Google has stated that this feature will be limited to certain Pixel phone models, namely the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 9 series.

    Battery Health Insights

    The new Android Battery Health menu can be accessed in Android 16 Beta 3, providing users with information on how much their battery has deteriorated. A similar functionality has been a part of iPhones for several years, including models like the iPhone 6. Recently, Android Authority reported that this feature will only be available for the newer Pixel devices.

    Accessing the Feature

    Users can find the Battery Health menu under the Battery section in the Settings application. According to the screenshots that have been shared, the feature gives an estimated percentage of charge that the battery can hold compared to a brand-new battery.

    The screenshots appear to have come from owners of the Pixel 8a and Pixel 9, which are currently listed on Amazon for $599. However, no images have been shared by users of older models like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, leading to some questions. A response found in the Google Issue Tracker, noticed by Reddit user azmeen0, confirmed that the absence of this feature in older models is intentional, citing “product limitations.”

    Impact on Older Devices

    This news is disappointing for those who own older Pixel devices, as they would likely benefit the most from such a feature. As these batteries age, understanding their condition becomes increasingly useful. Moreover, it raises concerns about the promised seven years of updates, especially if last-generation devices are left out from receiving significant features like this one.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Android 15 Update Now Available for Many Pixel Devices

    Android 15 Update Now Available for Many Pixel Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 is expected to be released soon, likely this quarter.
    2. The May 2025 update is being rolled out to all devices with Google Tensor chipsets, except the Pixel 9a.
    3. The update includes three key bug fixes, including improvements to microphone recording quality and Bluetooth pairing issues.
    4. The updates provide May 2025 Android security patches for devices starting from the Pixel 6.
    5. A bootloader update is included for Pixel 6 and Pixel 8 models, preventing downgrades to earlier Android versions.

    Google is soon to release Android 16, with many expecting it to happen this quarter. In the meantime, the tech giant has begun distributing its May 2025 update, which is available for all devices that use Google Tensor chipsets.

    Update Details

    Currently, all devices except for the Pixel 9a will be getting the update labeled BP1A.250505.005. Interestingly, Google is sending out a different update, BD4A.250505.003, to the newest mid-range phone, which is priced at $499 on Amazon. This update does not seem to have any specific changes for the Pixel 9a.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    According to a support announcement from Google, all devices eligible for this update will get three important bug fixes. One of these fixes addresses an issue that led to poor microphone recording quality in some applications. The updates, BP1A.250505.005 and BD4A.250505.003, should also resolve Bluetooth pairing problems with certain smartwatches, although Google has not shared more details on that. Furthermore, the updates fix a bug that occasionally caused a secondary language to show up in quick settings tiles.

    Security Patches and Bootloader Updates

    The updates also include the May 2025 Android security patches for devices starting from the Pixel 6. Additionally, BP1A.250505.005 introduces a bootloader update for all Pixel 6 and Pixel 8 models, meaning these devices cannot be reverted to an older Android version once the update is applied. Mishaal Rahman has cautioned that trying to downgrade could cause the device to become unusable. For more information, check Google’s special instructions below and the related developer post.

    Source:
    Link

    Android 15 Update Now Available for Many Pixel Devices
    Tags: , ,
  • Android 16 Redesign Teased as New Clock App Images Leak

    Android 16 Redesign Teased as New Clock App Images Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android and iOS are becoming more distinct as they approach the release of Android 16 and iOS 19.
    2. Apple is rumored to introduce rounded app icons and new user interface features in iOS 19.
    3. Google is implementing a ‘Material 3 Expressive’ design for Android 16, based on extensive user studies.
    4. The redesign of the Clock app in Android 16 reflects Google’s latest design guidelines but is not as radical as previous concepts.
    5. Android 16 is expected to be available for devices powered by Google Tensor, starting from the Pixel 6.

    In the past few years, the looks of Android and iOS have started to look more similar. But as we get closer to the launch of Android 16 and iOS 19 later this year, these two operating systems are expected to stand apart even more. Apple hasn’t formally announced any specifics about its upcoming iPhone OS yet, but rumors suggest that they’re planning to add rounded app icons and new user interface features, among other updates.

    Google’s Design Tweaks

    On the flip side, Google has offered a sneak peek at some of the design changes coming with Android 16, which is anticipated to be released this season. Although the details were shared online prematurely, Google’s ‘Material 3 Expressive’ design approach is based on 46 studies involving over 18,000 participants. It seems that the more playful aesthetic of Android is not just for looks, but also aims to enhance user experience.

    Future Changes in Android

    It’s important to note that the Material 3 Expressive design might not fully represent what Android 16 will ultimately look like. However, this year’s operating system is likely to incorporate aspects of Google’s latest design approach in certain areas. For instance, Google has revamped the Clock app for Android 16 using the Material 3 Expressive guidelines. In reality, though, the redesign is not as radical as some of Google’s earlier concepts. Currently, all devices powered by Google Tensor, starting from the Pixel 6, are expected to get Android 16 (priced at $299.99 on Amazon).

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Google’s Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

    Google’s Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is developing a desktop mode for Pixel devices, inspired by Samsung DeX.
    2. Android 15 introduced a developer preview of “desktop windowing” features for the Pixel Tablet.
    3. Android 16 refined these features, allowing a desktop-like experience with a taskbar and split-screen functionality.
    4. Users can access a quick menu for settings like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while using the desktop interface.
    5. The desktop feature is still in development and may not be included in the stable release of Android 16.

    Samsung DeX has been a key highlight of Samsung smartphones for a while. It allows users to transform their mobile device into a desktop-like experience. Now, it looks like Google is inspired by this idea. Since the release of Android 14, they’ve been quietly developing their own desktop mode specifically for Pixel devices.

    Android 15 and Desktop Features

    With the launch of Android 15, Google introduced a developer preview of a “desktop windowing” feature aimed at the Pixel Tablet. By the time Android 16 came around, this feature had undergone significant refinement and is now referred to as “Enable desktop experience features.” Thanks to Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority, we have an early glimpse at how this feature operates in real life.

    Functionality of Android 16

    Rahman successfully got the desktop feature to work on a Pixel 8 Pro linked to a laptop. The interface resembles a traditional desktop layout with a taskbar at the bottom that includes a three-button navigation system on the right side. The taskbar displays recently used apps, and users can open multiple apps in a split-screen format, much like standard PCs.

    Pulling down from the top reveals a quick access menu. This menu includes common toggles for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, along with the ability to add or remove options. The battery icon is located at the upper right corner of the home screen, while the time sits on the top left. This design is very much akin to what you would expect from a desktop-style UI, which seems to be the main intention. Importantly, you can still operate your phone while the desktop window is open.

    Still in Development

    While the feature appears to be functional, it is important to note that it is not yet complete. Rahman mentions that it remains a work in progress and “most likely won’t be available in the upcoming stable release of Android 16.” Instead, it may debut in one of the quarterly updates for Android 16, according to his insights.

    Source:
    Link

    Google's Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New FeaturesGoogle's Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New FeaturesGoogle's Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

     

    Tags: , ,
  • One UI 8 Rollout May Start Next Month, Slower Than One UI 7

    One UI 8 Rollout May Start Next Month, Slower Than One UI 7

    Key Takeaways

    1. One UI 8, based on Android 16, is currently in internal testing with a beta program expected to start in June 2025.
    2. The official launch is anticipated to coincide with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, likely in July 2025.
    3. One UI 8 is expected to be an incremental update to One UI 7.1, featuring improvements like smoother animations and AI-generated video summaries.
    4. Initial availability will focus on the Galaxy S25 and foldable devices, with older models receiving the update later.
    5. Samsung aims to streamline its update process with One UI 8, addressing previous delays experienced with One UI 7.

    Samsung’s One UI 8, which is built on Android 16, is currently undergoing internal testing. A leak from @tarunvats33 on X indicates that the beta program could kick off as soon as June 2025. This new interface is expected to launch with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 by July, likely feeling more like an incremental update to One UI 7.1 rather than a complete redesign.

    Fast-Tracking the Release

    The rollout of One UI 7 encountered several delays, but Samsung is acting quickly with One UI 8. Internal versions being tested on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and S25 Ultra suggest a potential release in July or August 2025, probably coinciding with Samsung’s next generation of foldable devices. The One UI 8 beta is anticipated to begin in June, allowing users of devices like the S25 and Z Fold 6 to try out the update early, helping to resolve any issues over the following months.

    Anticipation and Features

    Samsung is not providing much information about the beta launch, which is typical for them—official announcements usually come just days before the actual release. While One UI 8, powered by Android 16, may not introduce significant changes, it appears to be an enhanced version of One UI 7.1, featuring subtle improvements like smoother animations and AI-generated video summaries. This accelerated timeline skips a standalone 7.1 release, aiming to streamline Samsung’s update process following the challenges with One UI 7.

    Device Prioritization

    Users can expect One UI 8 to be available first on the S25 and foldable devices, with older models getting the update later. Although it may not drastically change the user experience, the early beta and impending launch demonstrate Samsung’s eagerness to keep pace with Android 16. Whether it will impress like the revamped Quick Panel from One UI 7 or merely refine existing features remains to be seen. The beta in June is set to reveal more details.

    Source:
    Link

    One UI 8 Rollout May Start Next Month, Slower Than One UI 7

     

    Tags: , ,

  • Android 16 Leak Unveils New Design for Google Pixel 9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google launched the public beta version of Android 16 in January, with the final version expected in June.
    2. Major updates and features will be revealed at the Google I/O event on May 20th and 21st.
    3. Android 16 will allow users to customize app icon shapes, offering options like rectangular and circular designs.
    4. The system settings app is getting a redesign with vibrant icons and clearer section separations.
    5. Enhancements to the volume slider and lock screen display are coming, along with updated quick settings and menu bar icons.

    Google has already launched the initial public beta version of Android 16 in January, with the final version of this mobile operating system anticipated to arrive in June. The beta was mainly focused on establishing the technical groundwork, but it didn’t introduce significant visual alterations. Major updates are expected to be revealed during the upcoming Google I/O event scheduled for May 20th and 21st.

    Hidden Features Discovered

    Nevertheless, Android Authority has apparently uncovered several concealed design modifications in the fourth beta version of Android 16. It’s still uncertain whether Google will actually include all of these alterations mentioned below, and it’s possible that certain features may be exclusive to Google’s custom launcher available on the Pixel 9 Pro (priced from $799 on Amazon) and other Pixel devices.

    Changes to App Icons and Settings

    One of the most striking modifications is the customizable shape of app icons on the Android 16 home screen. Users could soon have the option to select from rectangular, circular, and three other shapes, as illustrated in the screenshot below.

    The system settings application is also undergoing a significant redesign, featuring vibrant icons, clearer separations among various sections, and a new design for the sliders.

    Volume Slider and Lock Screen Tweaks

    In addition, Google is enhancing the volume slider design and making adjustments to how the time and date are displayed on the lock screen. The blurred wallpaper will now be visible in the background when users enter their passcode.

    Android 16 is set to introduce new quick settings, maintaining the same layout but with a refreshed appearance. Moreover, Google is reportedly planning to update some icons in the menu bar. Since the official release of Android 16 is still over a month away, it’s reasonable to believe that the new OS update will include additional changes and features not yet revealed.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,

  • Samsung Devices Eligible for One UI 8 Update List

    Key Takeaways

    1. One UI 8 is in development, with no specific details or eligible devices announced yet by Samsung.
    2. Eligible devices for One UI 8 include various models from the Galaxy S, Z, Tab, A, M, F, and XCover series.
    3. Samsung aims to release One UI 8 without minor updates like One UI 7.1, focusing on restoring its reputation for timely updates.
    4. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 are expected to launch with One UI 8 pre-installed around July or early August 2025.
    5. Android 16 is anticipated to release earlier than previous years, likely by June 2025, affecting Samsung’s preparation timeline for One UI 8.

    One UI 7 has not yet made it to many Galaxy devices that qualify for this significant update. The rollout has been quite underwhelming until now, but this won’t be the case with the upcoming upgrade, One UI 8, as its development is already in progress. Meanwhile, Google is gearing up for a quicker release of Android 16, which is anticipated to come sooner than the operating system releases seen in recent years.

    Samsung’s Next Steps

    Details about One UI 8 are still not publicly available. Samsung has not disclosed which Galaxy smartphones and tablets will receive this upcoming major upgrade. Therefore, we have based our list of One UI 8 eligible devices on the current software update policy. Check the list below to see if your Galaxy device qualifies for the next big upgrade.

    Eligible Devices for One UI 8

    Galaxy S series
    – Galaxy S25
    – Galaxy S25+
    – Galaxy S25 Ultra
    – Galaxy S24
    – Galaxy S24+
    – Galaxy S24 Ultra
    – Galaxy S24 FE
    – Galaxy S23
    – Galaxy S23+
    – Galaxy S23 Ultra
    – Galaxy S23 FE
    – Galaxy S22
    – Galaxy S22+
    – Galaxy S22 Ultra
    – Galaxy S21 FE

    Galaxy Z series
    – Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition
    – Galaxy Z Fold 6
    – Galaxy Z Fold 5
    – Galaxy Z Flip 6
    – Galaxy Z Flip 5
    – Galaxy Z Fold 4
    – Galaxy Z Flip 4

    Galaxy Tab series
    – Galaxy Tab S10+
    – Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
    – Galaxy Tab S10 FE
    – Galaxy Tab S10 FE+
    – Galaxy Tab S9 FE
    – Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
    – Galaxy Tab S9 (Wi-Fi/5G)
    – Galaxy Tab S9+ (Wi-Fi/5G)
    – Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra (Wi-Fi/5G)
    – Galaxy Tab S8 (Wi-Fi/5G)
    – Galaxy Tab S8+ (Wi-Fi/5G)
    – Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (Wi-Fi/5G)
    – Galaxy Tab A9
    – Galaxy Tab A9+

    Galaxy A series
    – Galaxy A73
    – Galaxy A56
    – Galaxy A55
    – Galaxy A54
    – Galaxy A53
    – Galaxy A36
    – Galaxy A35
    – Galaxy A34
    – Galaxy A33
    – Galaxy A25
    – Galaxy A24
    – Galaxy A23
    – Galaxy A15 (LTE/5G)
    – Galaxy A14 (LTE/5G)
    – Galaxy A16 (LTE/5G)
    – Galaxy A06

    Galaxy M series
    – Galaxy M56
    – Galaxy M55s
    – Galaxy M55
    – Galaxy M54
    – Galaxy M34
    – Galaxy M53
    – Galaxy M33
    – Galaxy M16
    – Galaxy M15
    – Galaxy M06

    Galaxy F series
    – Galaxy F55
    – Galaxy F54
    – Galaxy F34
    – Galaxy F16
    – Galaxy F15
    – Galaxy F06

    Galaxy XCover series
    – Galaxy XCover 7
    – Galaxy XCover 7 Pro

    This list isn’t final. We will update it as soon as the official list is released.

    Anticipated Release Date

    Samsung aims to avoid the delay seen with the One UI 7 launch. Reports indicate that the company has chosen to bypass minor updates like One UI 7.1 and 7.1.1 and will instead go straight to One UI 8. This strategy should help restore the brand’s reputation for providing reliable and timely updates, which it has built over many years. Although Samsung hasn’t announced a specific release date for One UI 8, reports suggest that the new Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 will launch with One UI 8 pre-installed. These devices are expected to debut around July or early August 2025.

    Google has confirmed that Android 16 will be out in the second quarter, likely by June 2025. Some sources claim it may even be released in early May. Regardless, Android 16 is set to arrive earlier than operating system releases in recent years, which will give Samsung and other Android manufacturers less time to prepare. The beta program for One UI 8 is anticipated to start around July 2025, but take this with caution, as recent events with Samsung haven’t been too promising.

    Tags: , ,