Tag: google

  • Chrome OS and Android Set for Merging: What You Need to Know

    Chrome OS and Android Set for Merging: What You Need to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google plans to merge Chrome OS and Android for enhanced user experience.
    2. Chromebook users may access Android features, while smartphones could run Linux applications.
    3. Confirmation of the merger came from Sameer Samat in a TechRadar interview.
    4. The change follows recent updates like Chrome OS porting and Linux support in Android.
    5. This move aims to compete with Apple’s integrated ecosystem, though a timeline is not yet provided.

    Google is gearing up to unite two of its well-known operating systems in the near future. This change could allow Chromebook users to access the finest features of Android, whereas smartphone users might find it possible to run Linux applications directly on their devices.

    Confirmation from TechRadar Interview

    This merger has been confirmed during an interview with Sameer Samat, the president of Google’s Android Ecosystem division, as reported by TechRadar.

    Logical Progression

    This move seems to be a natural evolution following significant developments, such as the successful port of Chrome OS to Pixel devices, and the introduction of Linux support through a virtual machine in the latest major Android update.

    Samat suggested that the new hybrid operating system will primarily influence how Chromebooks operate, but it could also lead to improvements in the desktop experience for smartphones.

    Competing with Apple

    The unification is expected to serve as Google’s response to the seamless integration seen in Apple’s iPhone/Mac/iPad ecosystem. However, Samat did not provide a specific timeline for when this new operating system combination will take place.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Series Euro Prices Leaked: Pro Fold & Buds 2a

    Google Pixel 10 Series Euro Prices Leaked: Pro Fold & Buds 2a

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google Pixel 10 phones will be introduced in about a month.
    2. The pricing for the Pixel 10 series in Europe is expected to remain the same as the Pixel 9 series.
    3. No price changes are anticipated for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold in Europe.
    4. The Pixel Buds 2a will launch at €149, a nearly 50% increase from the original Pixel Buds A series price of €99.
    5. The source of the pricing information is Roland Quandt, a well-known leaker in Germany.

    Google enthusiasts will need to be patient for about a month before the Pixel 10 phones are introduced. However, they can start pondering the costs involved, assuming the leaker’s claims hold up. This leaker is none other than Roland Quandt, an editor at Winfuture and likely the most well-known leaker in Germany, although where he got his information from is not clear.

    Price Expectations

    In summary, as per his sources, the entire Pixel 10 series in Europe will be priced exactly like the Pixel 9 series did in 2024. This goes against earlier predictions that suggested there would be variations in pricing in April, especially in US dollars. At least for Europe, no changes are anticipated, and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold won’t be any cheaper either. If these details are accurate, each storage option across the Pixel 10 range will be priced as follows:

    New Pixel Buds Pricing

    Additionally, Roland has shared the launch price for the Pixel Buds 2a, which has seen a price hike of nearly 50% to €149. The original Pixel Buds A series hit the market with a price tag of €99.

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  • Pixel 10a Back Cover Leak Reveals Dual-Camera Like Pixel 9a

    Pixel 10a Back Cover Leak Reveals Dual-Camera Like Pixel 9a

    Key Takeaways

    1. Early leaks suggest the Pixel 10a will be an affordable model in the Pixel 10 series, using the same processor as pricier versions.
    2. There may be compromises in the camera and battery compared to higher-end models.
    3. A leaked image of the back cover shows a design similar to the Pixel 9a, with a new camera layout.
    4. Google has not officially confirmed details about the Pixel 10 series; caution is advised with leaked information.
    5. The Pixel 10 series is expected to be announced in August, with the Pixel 10a potentially debuting in March of the following year.

    Google has yet to officially reveal the Pixel 10 series, but early leaks about the Pixel 10a are already surfacing. The ‘a’ series is known for being more affordable while still packing the same processor as its more expensive counterparts. However, some sacrifices are made, particularly in areas like the camera and battery. In fact, a recently leaked image of what is thought to be the back cover of the Pixel 10a provides a sneak peek at the rear camera layout for this budget-friendly model.

    Leak Details

    According to Android Authority, a user named Shirotaku posted a listing on Goofish showing a black back cover that is rumored to be for an engineering sample of the Pixel 10a. Although it was initially available for purchase, that option has been taken down, yet the listing remains active. The back cover design features a camera cutout resembling that of the Pixel 9a, but with the flash positioned further to the right, away from the camera lenses.

    Design Expectations

    This is pretty much all the information we have from the listing and the accompanying image. It is quite plausible that the overall design of the Pixel 10a will echo that of the Pixel 9a, maintaining a similar style. It’s important to keep in mind that Google hasn’t released any official details about the forthcoming Pixel devices, so it’s best to treat this information cautiously.

    The Pixel 10 series is anticipated to be announced in August, aligning with the launch of its predecessor. If the Pixel 10a follows the same schedule as the Pixel 9a, it may make its debut in March of the following year. Currently, the Pixel 9a is on sale for 10% less on Amazon, although this isn’t linked to any Prime Day promotions. The 128 GB model is priced at $449 and comes in four different colors: Iris, Obsidian, Peony, and Porcelain.

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  • Pixel 10 Pro: 128GB Base Storage and Limited Jade Color Leak

    Pixel 10 Pro: 128GB Base Storage and Limited Jade Color Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 10 Pro is expected to have a base storage of 128GB, with options for 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB in the Obsidian color.
    2. Color options for the Pixel 10 Pro include “Obsidian,” “Porcelain,” “Moonstone,” and “Jade,” with some colors limited to specific storage capacities.
    3. The larger Pixel 10 Pro XL will follow a similar storage pattern, with Obsidian offering 128GB to 1TB, while Porcelain and Moonstone will be limited to 256GB and 512GB.
    4. The choice of a 128GB starting storage suggests that the Pixel 10 series may not fully adopt the latest UFS 4.0 storage technology.
    5. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold will be available in “Moonstone” and “Jade,” with Moonstone offering 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, while Jade is limited to 256GB and 512GB.

    New details about Google’s upcoming Pixel 10 series have emerged, revealing various storage and color choices.

    Storage Variants

    A recent report from Droid-Life, which references “distributor data,” indicates that those interested in the Pixel 10 Pro might discover that the most eye-catching color will only be available in a specific storage option. This information hints that Google will stick with a 128GB base storage for the Pro variant, which has consequences for the device’s internal storage technology.

    Color Options

    The leaked information shows that the Pixel 10 Pro will come in colors like “Obsidian,” “Porcelain,” “Moonstone,” and a fresh “Jade.” While the Obsidian variant is expected to have 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and a generous 1TB option, the Porcelain and Moonstone colors are reportedly limited to a maximum of 512GB. For users who favor more lively colors, the “Jade” choice for the Pixel 10 Pro will seemingly be available only in a solitary 256GB configuration.

    Pro XL Model

    The larger Pixel 10 Pro XL appears to follow a similar trend. The “Obsidian” version is anticipated to feature the same 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB options. However, the “Porcelain” and “Moonstone” models are likely to only come in 256GB and 512GB sizes. Likewise, the “Jade” color for the Pro XL is also said to be confined to the 256GB model.

    The choice to keep a 128GB starting storage for the Pixel 10 Pro is significant, as it suggests that Google might not be moving to the latest UFS 4.0 storage technology for the entire series. Typically, the faster UFS 4.0 storage starts at a minimum capacity of 256GB. This hints that at least the 128GB versions will probably utilize the older UFS 3.1.

    Foldable Variant

    The leaks also give insight into the storage and color selections for the anticipated Pixel 10 Pro Fold. This foldable model appears to be available in “Moonstone” and “Jade.” The “Moonstone” variant is expected to offer 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB of storage, while the “Jade” version will be limited to 256GB and 512GB capacities.

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  • Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro Users Report Serious Bugs After Android 16 Update

    Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro Users Report Serious Bugs After Android 16 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 is available for Pixel 6 series and newer devices, including the Pixel 6a.
    2. Users of the Pixel 9 series are experiencing significant display issues, including unresponsive screens and failures in auto brightness and tap to wake features.
    3. There are reported performance problems, such as a sluggish lockscreen experience affecting both stable and beta versions.
    4. Google is aware of the issues and is planning to release a fix in a future update, but the timeline for this is unclear.
    5. Users may have to wait until August for any bug fixes, as the July update has already been completed.

    Google has been rolling out Android 16 for its Pixel devices for a while now. Launched nearly a month ago, this latest operating system update is available for the Pixel 6 series and newer, including the more affordable Pixel 6a, which is currently priced at $154 for refurbished models on Amazon. Unfortunately, it appears that the most recent Android 16 update has been creating numerous problems for users of the Pixel 9 series.

    Display Issues

    Many owners of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro have reported that their screens are unresponsive, even when they press the power buttons. The main issue seems to be that these newer Pixel smartphones are freezing while in sleep mode, which stops them from reacting to user inputs. In addition, other users have mentioned that features like auto brightness and the tap to wake function frequently fail to work unless the device is restarted.

    Performance Problems

    Moreover, some users are facing a sluggish lockscreen experience, which seems to affect both stable and beta versions of the software. Allegedly, Google is looking into these concerns and is planning to issue a fix in a future update. Nevertheless, it is still unclear when this update will be available for those using beta or stable software. It appears that Google has already completed its July update, which means that users affected by these problems might have to wait until August for any bug fixes to arrive.

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  • Google Signs 200 MW Corporate Fusion Power Deal with Commonwealth

    Google Signs 200 MW Corporate Fusion Power Deal with Commonwealth

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google signed a corporate power-purchase agreement for 200 megawatts of fusion energy from the upcoming ARC plant in Virginia, developed by Commonwealth Fusion Systems.
    2. This agreement highlights the increasing demand for energy due to AI workloads, with Google consuming 30.8 million MWh of electricity in 2023, primarily for data centers.
    3. Commonwealth Fusion Systems aims to achieve commercial fusion operation in the early 2030s, using high-temperature superconducting magnets for plasma confinement.
    4. Google has been a financial supporter of CFS since 2021, and this agreement strengthens their partnership while encouraging other fusion startups to pursue corporate clients.
    5. Despite challenges in achieving practical fusion energy, commitments from companies like Google suggest a potential shift towards clean baseload electricity for the digital economy.

    Google has made a significant move by signing the first direct corporate power-purchase agreement for fusion energy. The tech giant has committed to purchasing 200 megawatts from the upcoming ARC plant, which is being developed by Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Virginia. Once operational, the ARC facility is expected to provide a total of 400 MW, sufficient to power a large group of data centers located in one of the busiest server corridors in the world. The financial specifics of the deal have not been made public.

    Rising Demand for Energy

    This agreement underscores the growing clash between the rising demands of artificial intelligence workloads and the need for electrical power. According to Google’s sustainability report for 2024, the company consumed a whopping 30.8 million MWh of electricity in the previous year, which is double the amount used in 2020. A staggering 96 percent of this energy was utilized by data centers. To expand this energy footprint while still adhering to decarbonization goals, innovative energy generation technologies are essential.

    About Commonwealth Fusion Systems

    Commonwealth Fusion Systems, which was established as a spin-off from MIT in 2018, is working on a tokamak design that utilizes high-temperature superconducting magnets to confine plasma. In 2022, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory managed to achieve a short net-energy gain with lasers, but no fusion project has yet been able to reach a continuous state of “engineering break-even.” CFS plans to showcase commercial operation in the early 2030s, with ARC serving as both a testing platform and a source of initial revenue.

    Investment and Future Prospects

    Google has been a financial backer of CFS since a funding round in 2021 that raised $1.8 billion. This new power-offtake agreement strengthens their partnership and sends a clear message to other fusion startups looking to attract corporate clients. In 2023, Microsoft entered into a similar but smaller agreement with Helion Energy, indicating that major cloud providers are ready to take risks on energy projects to secure long-term, zero-carbon energy sources.

    Fusion energy still has to overcome tough physical and engineering challenges, including the need for continuous plasma confinement, materials that can withstand neutron bombardment, and making the economics of fusion plants competitive with renewables and energy storage. However, the scale of commitments from companies like Google, along with the momentum in public sector research, indicates that a practical fusion energy contribution is becoming more plausible, even if it remains uncertain. If ARC meets its goals, it could signify a major shift in how the digital economy acquires clean baseload electricity.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories Revealed

    Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel Watch 4 has been confirmed with new leaks from trusted source Roland Quandt.
    2. It will be available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, similar to the previous model.
    3. The watch will come in five color options and include both Wi-Fi and LTE versions.
    4. Accessories for the Pixel Watch 4 have been listed, but no official images have been released.
    5. The starting price for the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to be $399, like its predecessor.

    While fresh information about the Pixel 10 has been coming out almost every day lately, the Pixel Watch 4 has been pretty quiet. Back in April, leaked images based on CAD models showed what the Pixel Watch 3’s successor might look like, but there hasn’t been much else since then—until today, that is.

    New Insights from a Trusted Source

    Thanks to reliable leaker Roland Quandt from Germany, we now have a sneak peek at a retailer’s database that has already listed several Pixel Watch 4 models, along with some accessories. It’s not clear yet if there will be more models than those mentioned below. For now, this leak reveals two sizes, five color choices, and some initial details about bands and accessories like a charger.

    Specifications Unveiled

    According to the leak from an unnamed retailer, the Pixel Watch 4 will come in sizes of 41mm and 45mm, which are the same as the previous generation (starting at $399 on Amazon). As expected, both Wi-Fi and LTE versions are in the works. The color options listed are as follows:

    Accessories have also been found in the retailer’s database, particularly:

    However, the leak does not show any official images of these accessories or the Google smartwatches. It’s very likely that there will be more accessories available beyond these.

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    Google Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories RevealedGoogle Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories RevealedGoogle Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories RevealedGoogle Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories RevealedGoogle Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories RevealedGoogle Pixel Watch 4 Leak: Sizes, Colors, and Accessories Revealed
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  • Google Pixel 6a Users Get Up to $150 After Battery Update Issues

    Google Pixel 6a Users Get Up to $150 After Battery Update Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google will launch an update for Pixel 6a devices on July 8 that may decrease battery life and slow charging speeds.
    2. The update aims to prevent battery overheating issues that have caused some devices to catch fire.
    3. Only certain Pixel 6a devices with 400 full charging cycles will experience decreased battery performance.
    4. Affected users can get a free battery replacement starting July 21, along with options for compensation of a $150 gift card or $100 cash.
    5. Users can check their eligibility for compensation on a specific website, noting that the gift card cannot be combined with other discounts.

    As mentioned before, Google is set to launch an update for all Pixel 6a devices beginning July 8. This update might lead to a notable drop in battery life and slower charging speeds. It will install itself automatically when the Pixel 6a is connected to the internet. Only certain Pixel 6a devices, specifically those that have gone through 400 full charging cycles, will see a decrease in battery performance.

    Reasons Behind the Update

    This software improvement is meant to stop the Pixel 6a battery from overheating, which has led to some devices catching fire. Since not every Pixel 6a is impacted, it indicates that batteries from specific manufacturers are the root of the problem. Those who experience issues with their battery can get a free replacement starting July 21. Google has also disclosed information about two other compensation options. For some users, they can receive a Google Store gift card valued at $150. Alternatively, there’s a cash option of $100. Google will adjust these amounts according to the current exchange rates.

    Checking Eligibility

    To find out if your Google Pixel 6a is affected and qualifies for compensation, you can visit this website. However, it’s important for users opting for the gift card to remember that it cannot be used alongside other discounts or promotions. Given that Pixel smartphones often have lower prices at other retailers, the cash payout may prove to be the wiser option in certain areas. For instance, the Pixel 9a is priced at €549 at the official Google Store in Germany, while it is available for just €452 on Amazon.

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  • Google Pixel 6a Battery Update Issues and Compensation Offered

    Google Pixel 6a Battery Update Issues and Compensation Offered

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google will reduce the battery capacity of the Pixel 6a through a mandatory update starting July 8, which will be included with Android 16.
    2. This “battery performance improvement update” aims to lower battery voltage to prevent overheating after incidents of some devices catching fire.
    3. Not all Pixel 6a devices will be affected; the impact depends on the battery supplier for each device.
    4. Affected users will have three compensation options: free battery replacement, a discount code for a new smartphone, or a cash payment.
    5. Google has not yet disclosed the amounts for the discount code or cash payout, but previous compensation for Pixel 4a users was $100 voucher or $50 cash.

    Just a few months ago, Google significantly reduced the battery capacity of the Pixel 4a through an update. Now, they are set to do the same for the Pixel 6a. This update was first announced in mid-June, and Google has provided more information on a support webpage. Most crucially, they revealed the release date. Starting July 8, the update will be automatically and mandatorily installed on all impacted Pixel 6a devices. Users will easily notice the update since it will come together with Android 16.

    Battery Performance Claims

    Interestingly, Google refers to this patch as a “battery performance improvement update,” even though it acknowledges that the patch will lower both battery capacity and charging performance after 400 charging cycles. The reason behind this change is due to incidents where some Pixel 6a devices caught fire. The lower battery voltage aims to prevent overheating. Google points out that this update does not affect every Pixel 6a phone, similar to the case with the Pixel 4a. This likely varies based on the battery supplier for each device.

    Compensation Options for Users

    Like with the Pixel 4a, Google is providing affected Pixel 6a owners three options for compensation regarding the diminished battery life. Beginning July 21, users can have the smartphone’s battery replaced at no cost to restore full capacity. Alternatively, Google is providing a discount code for those looking to purchase a new smartphone from the Google Store. Lastly, customers can choose to receive a cash payment as compensation.

    Google has yet to disclose the value of the discount code or the cash payout amount. For context, affected Pixel 4a users received either a $100 voucher or a $50 cash payment. Users can find out if their Google Pixel 6a is impacted by visiting this website.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Pro & Pro XL Specs Leak: Bigger Batteries & Upgrades

    Google Pixel 10 Pro & Pro XL Specs Leak: Bigger Batteries & Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is set to unveil the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL on August 20, with rumors suggesting specifications have been leaked.
    2. The Pixel 10 Pro features a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro XL has a larger 6.8-inch display, both maintaining a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    3. Both models will come with 16 GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128 GB to 1 TB, along with a similar camera setup to previous models.
    4. The Pixel 10 Pro XL will support 29 W wired and 15 W Qi2 wireless charging, with slightly increased battery capacities compared to their predecessors.
    5. The main camera will remain at 50 MP, supplemented by a 48 MP telephoto, a 48 MP ultra-wide, and a 42 MP front camera, powered by the new Google Tensor G5 chipset.

    Google is expected to reveal the new Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL models in a little over a month, according to the latest rumors. Currently, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is priced at $726.55 for refurbished units on Amazon. Reports suggest that the upcoming hardware event will take place on August 20. In the meantime, Android Headlines has reportedly gotten its hands on a nearly complete list of specifications for the new devices.

    Similarities in Size and Performance

    Not much distinguishes the two models aside from their display sizes and resolutions. Google appears to be sticking with last year’s sizes and resolutions, with the Pixel 10 Pro featuring a 6.3-inch display at 2,856 x 1,280 pixels, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL sports a larger 6.8-inch display with a resolution of 2,992 x 1,344 pixels. Both devices are said to offer improved brightness compared to their predecessors, but they will retain the same refresh rate of 120 Hz.

    Storage and Camera Specs

    As for performance, Android Headlines reports that both smartphones will be equipped with 16 GB of RAM and will offer storage options of 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, and even 1 TB, similar to the Pixel 9 models. The camera setup will also see a return to the 50 MP main camera, a 48 MP telephoto lens, a 48 MP ultra-wide camera, and a 42 MP front camera, enhanced by the new Google Tensor G5 chipset.

    Charging and Battery Life

    Interestingly, the Pixel 10 Pro XL will support 29 W wired and 15 W Qi2 wireless charging, despite the fact that the Pixel 9 Pro XL could theoretically handle up to 37 W. Battery sizes are expected to increase slightly, with the Pixel 10 Pro featuring a battery capacity of 4,870 mAh, and the Pro XL model boasting a 5,200 mAh battery. However, these increases are only marginal, with a few percent improvement over the previous generation.

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