Tag: google

  • Buy Google’s Pixel 10a Now with Free Limited-Time Perks

    Buy Google’s Pixel 10a Now with Free Limited-Time Perks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 10a is priced at $499 for the base model with 128GB storage, matching the debut price of the Pixel 9a.
    2. Purchase incentives include free Pixel Buds 2a or a $100 gift card/store credit, valid until March 11.
    3. It features a 6.3-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass 7i, and is powered by the Tensor G4 chip with 8GB of RAM.
    4. Camera setup includes a 48MP rear main sensor, 13MP ultrawide, and a 13MP front camera, all capable of 4K recording.
    5. The phone supports 7 years of OS upgrades, has an IP68 rating for water resistance, and features like dual SIM support and fast charging.

    Last month, Google introduced the Pixel 10a as a new budget-friendly option in the Pixel 10 lineup. Since its reveal, the phone has been up for pre-order. Now, it’s finally ready for purchase, and the pre-order benefits are still available.

    Pricing and Storage Options

    The Pixel 10a begins at $499 for the base model, which is the same price as the Pixel 9a when it debuted. For this price, customers receive 128GB of storage, but if you want more space, there’s a 256GB version available for an extra $100. No matter which version you choose, the same benefits are included.

    Purchase Benefits

    Google and its official retailers, including Amazon, offer two purchase incentives. You can get a complimentary pair of Pixel Buds 2a, valued at $129. Alternatively, if you buy from Amazon, you have the option of a $100 gift card, or if you shop at the Google Store, you can receive $100 in store credit. Both companies state that these promotions are valid until 11:59 PM on March 11.

    Specifications and Features

    The Pixel 10a boasts a 6.3-inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2424. The display is safeguarded by Gorilla Glass 7i, features a 120Hz refresh rate, and can achieve a peak brightness of 3000 nits. Powered by the Tensor G4 chip, which also powers the Pixel 9a, it comes with 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB.

    In terms of cameras, the rear setup includes a 48MP main sensor along with a 13MP ultrawide camera, while the front camera is a 13MP sensor as well. Both back and front cameras can record in 4K. The Pixel 10a is equipped with a 5100mAh battery that supports 30W fast charging via cable and 10W wireless charging.

    Additional Features

    Other features include an in-display fingerprint reader, satellite SOS capabilities, IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, dual SIM support (nano SIM and eSIM), stereo speakers, NFC, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6.0, and a USB Type-C 3.2 port.

    Google ships the Pixel 10a with Android 16. Like its Pixel 10 siblings, it promises 7 years of operating system upgrades and security patches. It comes in colors like Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian.

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  • Google Chrome Introduces New Two-Week Release Cycle This September

    Google Chrome Introduces New Two-Week Release Cycle This September

    Key Takeaways

    1. Chrome will switch to a biweekly release schedule for stable and beta versions starting September 2026.
    2. The first version under this new schedule will be Chrome version 153, launching on September 8, 2026.
    3. The quicker release cycle aims to provide faster updates and fixes, making tracking issues easier.
    4. The Dev and Canary versions will maintain their current release schedules, unaffected by the change.
    5. An Extended Stable option will continue for enterprises, allowing an eight-week upgrade cycle for managed fleets.

    Google has announced that Chrome will shift from its current four-week major version release schedule to a new system of stable (and beta) releases every two weeks, starting in September 2026. This transition will kick off with Chrome version 153, which is set to launch on September 8, 2026. This change will affect Chrome on desktop, Android, and iOS platforms.

    Faster Improvements

    In their announcement, Google presents the quicker release cycle as a way to deliver updates and fixes to users more rapidly. By making each version smaller, they believe this will lessen interruptions and simplify tracking issues that arise after a release.

    Dev and Canary Remain Unchanged

    Google also mentioned that the Dev and Canary versions of Chrome will not see any changes in their release schedules.

    Extended Stable for Enterprises

    For those organizations that may struggle with biweekly major upgrades, Google will continue to offer the Extended Stable option, which will maintain an eight-week milestone cycle. The company’s documentation for enterprise users specifies that Extended Stable is designed for managed fleets on Windows and Mac, advising administrators on management policies and installation options.

    In summary, the new release rhythm will enable a beta and stable version every two weeks, with a Chrome Beta for each version being available three weeks prior to the stable release. Google has also stressed that Chromebook updates will still rely on platform testing, promising to provide additional information later about how updates for managed Chromebooks will align with the new browser release schedule.

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  • Google is Disabling Features in Android Weather App Experience

    Google is Disabling Features in Android Weather App Experience

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is replacing the Weather shortcut on Android with a web-only weather interface within Google Search.
    2. The new weather interface features an AI-generated summary and a 10-day forecast but lacks a full-screen view.
    3. Users now see a typical web results page with additional links and content, which is viewed as a downgrade in user experience.
    4. Not all Android devices have transitioned to the new setup yet, as some still display the traditional weather app.
    5. There are calls for Google to make the exclusive Weather app available for all Android devices, not just Pixel phones.

    Google is removing the easy way to get weather updates on Android devices. The Google Weather shortcut, which acted like a small, standalone app but was part of the Google Search app, is being replaced by a new web-only option.

    New Weather Interface

    Since November, Google has been sending users to a new weather interface within Google Search as part of a testing phase. However, according to 9to5Google, it seems that the tech giant has started a broader rollout, effectively ending the simple weather solution that Android users have depended on for many years.

    When users tap the Weather shortcut on their homescreen, they are now directed to a Google Search weather results page. This page showcases weather forecasts with a familiar Froggy background card, featuring an AI-generated weather summary, a standard 10-day forecast carousel, and drop-down menus for air quality, humidity, wind, and precipitation.

    Changes in User Experience

    Although the web-based setup still provides similar weather information and updates, it no longer offers a full-screen view. Now, it resembles a typical web results page, with extra links and search content appearing as users scroll down. This is seen as a clear downgrade in overall user experience, especially since Google has yet to release a dedicated weather app for Android devices, although they do provide an exclusive Weather app for Pixel phones.

    Not all devices have experienced this change yet; many on the latest Search beta are still showing the traditional app view. But the signs are clear. If Google is determined to eliminate its best weather interface, it’s high time to stop restricting access and allow the polished Pixel Weather app to be available for all Android phones.

    Via: 9to5Google

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  • Google Rushes to Fix Vulnerabilities After Exploit Code Released

    Google Rushes to Fix Vulnerabilities After Exploit Code Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google released a Chrome update on February 18, 2026, for desktop versions 145.0.7632.109/110 (Windows and macOS) and 144.0.7559.109 (Linux), rolling out in stages.
    2. The update included three security patches, in addition to addressing CVE-2026-2441.
    3. An Extended Stable channel update was also released on the same day, version 144.0.7559.220 for Windows and Mac, with a similar phased rollout.
    4. Mobile devices received stable updates with the same security fixes as the desktop versions, unless otherwise noted.
    5. CVE-2026-2441 was added to CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, with updates including a public proof-of-concept reference.

    On February 18, 2026, Google released an update for the Stable Channel on Desktop, upgrading Chrome to versions 145.0.7632.109/110 for Windows and macOS, and 144.0.7559.109 for Linux. This update will be rolled out in stages over the next few days or weeks.

    Security Fixes Included

    In the release notes for the desktop version from February 18, Google mentioned three security patches that were included, aside from CVE-2026-2441.

    Extended Stable Channel Updates

    On the same day, Google also updated the Extended Stable channel to version 144.0.7559.220 for both Windows and Mac, with a similar phased rollout expected in the coming days or weeks.

    Mobile Updates Released

    In conjunction with the desktop updates, there were stable updates for mobile devices as well. The Android release notes highlighted that the Android versions include the same security fixes as their desktop counterparts, unless stated otherwise.

    CVE-2026-2441 has been added to CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. The NVD page reflects KEV data, showing relevant details:

    CISA publicly announced the addition of CVE-2026-2441 to the catalog during a batch update. The NVD record was updated once more, including a public proof-of-concept (PoC) reference.

    The change history for the NVD entry indicates further updates after the initial announcement, such as a modification by CISA-ADP on February 20, 2026, which included a link to a publicly available PoC.

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  • Google Launches Trade-In Offers for New Pixel Smartphone

    Google Launches Trade-In Offers for New Pixel Smartphone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has expanded its Pixel 10 lineup with the new mid-range Pixel 10a model, priced at $499 for 128 GB.
    2. The Pixel 10a retains features from the Pixel 9a, including the same display, battery, and camera specifications.
    3. The Pixel 10a is lighter and stronger, now using Gorilla Glass 7i and offering improved brightness levels.
    4. New features introduced in the Pixel 10a include Camera Coach, Macro Focus, and Auto Best Take.
    5. Pre-orders for the Pixel 10a start now, with deliveries beginning on March 5, and special offers available for different regions.

    Google has recently unveiled what appears to be the final addition to the Pixel 10 lineup in various markets. To summarize, last August, the company launched the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which is currently priced at $1,749.99 on Amazon. However, the latest foldable device did not begin shipping until early October.

    Expanding the Series

    Now, four months later, Google has chosen to broaden its flagship offerings with a new mid-range model. The difference between the previous Pixel 9a and the new Pixel 10a is quite minor. For example, the 6.3-inch Actua display, 5,100 mAh battery, and Tensor G4 chipset from the Pixel 9a are back. Additionally, there are no changes in the 13 MP front-facing, 13 MP ultra-wide-angle, and 48 MP primary cameras.

    Lighter and Stronger

    Interestingly, the Pixel 10a weighs 3 g less than its older version, coming in at 183 g. Moreover, Google has upgraded the Pixel A series from Corning Gorilla Glass 3 to Gorilla Glass 7i. Brightness levels have also improved by 11%, reaching 2,000 nits (100% APL) and 3,000 nits (5% APL). Additionally, the Pixel 10a introduces features like Camera Coach, Macro Focus, and Auto Best Take that were not available on the Pixel 9a.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Pixel 10a is available starting at $499, £499, and €549 for the 128 GB storage model, with options in Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian colors. Alternatively, a model with 256 GB of storage can be purchased for $599, £599, and €649. Pre-order deals differ by region. Although trade-in offers of $100, £100, and €100 are accessible worldwide, customers in the US will also get a complimentary pair of Pixel Buds 2a, which Google sells at a 50% discount in Europe. Deliveries for pre-orders are set to begin on March 5.

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  • Google’s New Smartphone Launches Globally with Tensor G4 Chip

    Google’s New Smartphone Launches Globally with Tensor G4 Chip

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 10a will be launched tomorrow, replacing the Pixel 9a.
    2. It features a 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    3. The Pixel 10a will use the Tensor G4 chip, unlike other Pixel 10 series devices which will have the newer Tensor G5 chip.
    4. The phone will come in Blue, Grey, and Obsidian colors, with prices starting at €549 (around $650) for 128 GB storage.
    5. A 256 GB variant will be available for €649 (approximately $769).

    Google is set to launch the Pixel 10a tomorrow. To summarize, the tech giant revealed about two weeks ago that the Pixel 9a would be replaced on February 18 (currently priced at $399 on Amazon). However, European retailer Vanden Borre has jumped the gun and disclosed several details regarding the Pixel 10a ahead of schedule.

    Display and Chipset Details

    Roland Quandt spotted that the retailer confirms the Pixel 10a will feature a 6.3-inch Actua display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz. Furthermore, the new phone will continue using last year’s Tensor G4 chip. In contrast, the other devices in the Pixel 10 series will run on the newer Tensor G5 chipset. This year’s Pixel A series smartphone will also have the same camera hardware as its predecessor, even though Google is highlighting its new flat camera design in its advertising.

    Pricing and Availability

    Additionally, Vanden Borre has also disclosed the launch prices. The retailer plans to offer the Pixel 10a in Blue, Grey, and Obsidian colors. As shown in the screenshot below, these color options will be available for €549 (around $650) with 128 GB of storage. Vanden Borre also confirms that Google will set the price at €649 (approximately $769) for the 256 GB variant. The Pixel 10a is expected to be available in more than just the Obsidian finish shown below, including the 256 GB storage option.

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  • Android 17 Beta 1 Release Delayed Indefinitely: What to Know

    Android 17 Beta 1 Release Delayed Indefinitely: What to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is working on Android 17 beta 1, rumored to feature significant visual improvements.
    2. The beta version’s release date has shifted, leaving users uncertain about when testing will begin.
    3. A message on Reddit indicated the beta was expected soon, but Google has confirmed it will not be released on February 11.
    4. Users expressed skepticism about the launch due to the recent Android 16 QPR3 release and Google’s typical update schedule.
    5. Eligible Pixel device owners need to be patient, as no revised timeline for the Android OS release has been provided.

    Google has been working on Android 17 beta 1, which is rumored to include some significant visual improvements. On February 10, Google announced that the beta version was coming soon, but it seems the timeline has shifted. The exact release date for the operating system has not been provided, leaving users uncertain about when they can start testing it and the reason for the delay.

    Release Timing Updates

    According to a message on the official r/android_beta subreddit, the Android 17 beta 1 was expected to be released soon. Although the post didn’t specify a precise time, many anticipated it would be available around 1 PM EST on February 11. However, it appears that Google has encountered some issues. Android Authority has reported that a representative said the rollout will “actually be coming soon, not today.”

    Skepticism About the Launch

    Even with the original announcement, some users were doubtful about whether Android 17 beta 1 would actually come out today, considering how recent the Android 16 QPR3 release was. One user remarked that Google usually prefers to have a gap of about a week between updates. They suggested that a more realistic release date might be February 18, or possibly even February 23, as the company typically favors Mondays or Wednesdays for major updates.

    Those who own eligible Pixel devices will need to exercise a bit more patience for the upcoming Android OS. Since Google hasn’t provided a revised timeline, it’s difficult to determine how long they will have to wait.

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  • Android 17 Beta Launch Date Revealed: Closer Than Expected

    Android 17 Beta Launch Date Revealed: Closer Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is skipping the developer preview stage and going directly to the beta phase for Android 17.
    2. The Android 17 beta, codenamed “Cinnamon Bun,” is expected to launch around February 18.
    3. Android 17 is built on Android 16 QPR and includes bug fixes and improvements, with potential visual upgrades.
    4. Pixel users in the Android Beta Program will receive the update automatically, while those wanting to stay on the stable version must opt out before the beta launches.
    5. Downgrading from the beta will wipe all user data, and a secure method to exit the beta without data loss will be available only at the end of the beta period.

    Google seems to have made some major changes to how it rolls out updates. For the very first time, they are skipping the developer preview stage and going straight to the beta phase. This was recently confirmed in the official Reddit group r/android_beta, which stated that the Android 17 beta is likely to be launched soon. This change is part of the new canary build model. With this model, developers are working directly on the main branch of development, which helps to cut down on internal testing time and allows beta versions to be released more quickly. Reports indicate that the Android 17 beta could kick off around February 18.

    Details on Android 17

    Android 17, codenamed “Cinnamon Bun,” is built on the solid foundation of Android 16 QPR – Quarterly Platform Release. Up to this point, Google has not shared much information about the specific updates included in this version. Officially, the company is only mentioning “the latest bug fixes and improvements to stability and performance.” Nevertheless, there are rumors that Android 17 might bring some significant visual upgrades. These potential changes could feature more visible blur effects and a clearer distinction between the notification shade and Quick Settings. The overall look may start to resemble designs found in systems like Apple’s iOS or Xiaomi’s HyperOS. However, these updates are causing mixed feelings, especially among long-time Android fans who favor the classic appearance of the platform.

    How to Get the Update

    For anyone with a Pixel device who is signed up for the Android Beta Program, Android 17 Beta 1 will be delivered automatically as an OTA update. Users who want to stay on the stable Android 16 QPR3 version must opt out of the beta program before the beta launches. Once the beta is out, Google will provide a “downgrade OTA,” but it’s advised against installing it as it is said to wipe all user data completely. A secure method to exit the beta program without losing any data will only be available again toward the end of the beta period, which is anticipated to be around June 2026.

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  • Pixel 10a Colors: Preview of All 4 Expected Color Options

    Pixel 10a Colors: Preview of All 4 Expected Color Options

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 10a will launch on February 18 and is expected to come in four color options: Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian.
    2. The design of the Pixel 10a is similar to the Pixel 9a, with only slight differences in color.
    3. Official images of the Pixel 10a have been released, showcasing its various color perspectives.
    4. The specifications include a 6.3-inch P-OLED display with a 1080p+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, along with a dual rear camera setup (48MP primary and 13MP ultrawide) and a 13MP front camera.
    5. The Pixel 10a is expected to maintain a battery capacity of 5,100 mAh and upgrade to the Tensor G5 chipset.

    Google has revealed the Pixel 10a, which is set to hit the market on February 18. Although the promotional video displays just one color, it is anticipated to be available in four shades, similar to the Pixel 9a. The new colors are slightly different from the previous model, yet the overall appearance of the phone remains quite alike.

    Color Variations

    Android Headlines has been releasing what they call “official” images of the Pixel 10a for a while, and they’ve now presented the device in its four expected hues. The images depict the Pixel 10a from various perspectives in its anticipated Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian color options. It’s worth noting that the Pixel 9a also launched in four different colors: Iris, Peony, Porcelain, and Obsidian. Google has already confirmed the Lavender version for the Pixel 10a, but the official name is still a bit unclear. Check out the remaining colors below:

    Specifications Overview

    When it comes to specifications, the Pixel 10a is likely to feature a 6.3-inch P-OLED display boasting a resolution of 1080p+ and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The dual cameras on the rear are expected to include a 48MP f/1.7 primary camera and a 13MP f/2.2 ultrawide camera. On the front, the selfie camera is rumored to be a 13MP f/2.2. This camera setup is identical to that of the Pixel 9a. Google is also expected to maintain the same battery capacity for the Pixel 10a at 5,100 mAh. The chipset is likely to be upgraded to the Tensor G5, which is featured in the Pixel 10 series.

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  • Google Pixel 10a: Official Release Date for New Mid-Range Smartphone

    Google Pixel 10a: Official Release Date for New Mid-Range Smartphone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has revealed a sneak peek of the Pixel 10a through a 15-second video on social media.
    2. The Pixel 10a features a fully flat rear camera design, differing from the Pixel 9a’s slight bump.
    3. The dual-camera system from the Pixel 9a will return in the Pixel 10a.
    4. The Pixel 10a will be available in a darker color compared to the Iris color of the Pixel 9a.
    5. Pre-orders for the Pixel 10a will start on February 18, with more information expected soon.

    Google has recently given a sneak peek at the Pixel 10a, shortly after Evan Blass shared a detailed leak about the device on X. Up until now, the company has only shown a brief preview of its upcoming mid-range phone. They released a short 15-second video on their social media platforms, which we have included below.

    Design Changes

    At this point, Google hasn’t shared any specific technical information regarding the successor to the Pixel 9a. However, we can make some assumptions about how Google aims to set the Pixel 10a apart from its earlier model, which is currently priced at $399 on Amazon. For example, the new mid-range phone features a fully flat rear camera design, unlike the slight bump that was seen with the Pixel 9a.

    Camera and Color Variations

    That said, the dual-camera system from last year’s version makes a return. The video also suggests that the Pixel 10a will come in a darker shade compared to the Iris color that is available for the Pixel 9a. Google plans to start pre-orders for the Pixel 10a on February 18. Meanwhile, the tagline ‘a phone with more in store, in store soon’ hints that the company will disclose more information about the device in the next couple of weeks. Check out the video below for additional insights.

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