Tag: Pixel 6

  • Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

    Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 is expected to launch between April and June 2025, with a second public beta now available.
    2. New camera features include saving Ultra-HDR photos in the HEIC format and adjustable exposure settings in automatic mode.
    3. Enhanced white balance options allow users to modify tint and color temperature for better photo quality.
    4. Quick access to Google Wallet can be achieved by double-pressing the power button.
    5. The beta version is compatible with recent Google devices, including Pixel 6 and later models, and users should back up their data before installation.

    Since Google has sharpened its software release timeline, Android 16 is projected to launch in the second quarter of 2025, specifically between April and June. In line with this, Google has rolled out the second public beta version that features several new improvements. To be more precise, this beta mainly hones in on the camera application.

    New Camera Features

    The update now allows users to save Ultra-HDR photos in the HEIC format, which is more efficient and takes up less space. Lastly, photographers can now tweak exposure settings while in automatic mode. Instead of being limited to either full auto or manual, users can modify specific settings like sensor sensitivity or shutter speed in automatic exposure mode if they choose, while all other settings remain automatically adjusted.

    Enhanced White Balance Options

    Google has also added more ways to modify the white balance. Besides adjusting the color temperature, the second beta of Android 16 introduces a tint option that can help counter challenging or vibrant lighting conditions, or even give photos a unique flair. This feature is particularly vital when capturing JPEGs instead of RAW images, since white balance adjustments can’t be made after the photo is taken.

    Quick Access to Google Wallet

    Another interesting addition is the ability to access Google Wallet by double-pressing the power button, which serves as an alternative shortcut to the camera app. The latest public beta version of Android 16 works with a variety of recent Google devices, including the Pixel 6 and later models, as well as the new Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel Tablet. Those interested in testing the beta can sign up on Google’s official site. As always, it’s highly advisable to perform a complete backup before installing any beta version of an operating system.

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    Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

     

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  • Google Pixel 6 and Newer Phones Get First Android 16 Update

    Google Pixel 6 and Newer Phones Get First Android 16 Update

    Google has just released the initial version of Android 16 for download. As is customary, the company has launched a Developer Preview first. Therefore, it’s advisable not to install Android 16 on your regular or work devices just yet.

    Focus on Developers

    As expected, Google is currently concentrating on changes that cater to developers. However, their latest post on the Android Developers Blog does share some information for users. Notably, Google has confirmed that stable versions of Android 16 should start rolling out in Q2 of 2025. In simpler terms, you can anticipate major OS updates for Pixel devices around April, May, or June.

    More Devices Supported

    Interestingly, it seems that Google intends to expand the availability of Android 16 to more devices than initially thought. The Developer Preview 1 can be downloaded on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro (curr. $190 – renewed on Amazon), even though official support for these devices ended last month. For the moment, there’s no assurance that these models will get stable Android 16 updates.

    Future Updates for the Pixel 6a

    The introduction of the Pixel 6a might allow its flagship counterparts to receive one more Android update than originally anticipated. As Mishaal Rahman points out, the official software support for the Pixel 6a will wrap up after Android 16 is expected to be released. Therefore, Google will need to make Android 16 compatible with its Tensor G1 chip, which also powers the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. As a result, there’s a possibility that all models in the Pixel 6 series could get Android 16, but it may take some time before that happens.

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  • Fitbit Users Face Food Logging Problems After App Update

    Fitbit Users Face Food Logging Problems After App Update

    Some users of Fitbit have pointed out a new problem with the company’s application after recent updates. As per discussions on the Fitbit Community forum, there are a few issues related to the food logging feature that emerged following the app update to version 4.29. Nevertheless, these issues appear to only impact users of Pixel phones.

    Problems with Food Logging

    Fitbit users have noted that certain pages within the Log Food section of the app are truncated at the top, which stops them from seeing all the details about their food items. Others have mentioned that the ability to add custom food is missing, and they are unable to access historical data. A number of users attempted to resolve this by logging out, clearing the cache, and restarting their devices, but sadly, none of these actions fixed the problem. Moreover, the issue continues even after the most recent app update to version 4.30.

    Acknowledgment from Fitbit

    The bug has been reported by users across different Pixel phone models, such as the Pixel 6, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, and Pixel 9 Pro (which is currently priced at $999 on Amazon). On November 13th, a Fitbit representative contributed to the discussion, confirming that the team is aware of the issue and is working towards a fix. However, the company has yet to specify when users might expect another update that will rectify this bug.

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  • Android 15 Update Bricks Pixel 6 Devices After Private Space On

    Android 15 Update Bricks Pixel 6 Devices After Private Space On

    Recent user feedback on Reddit reveals that some Pixel 6 phones are experiencing issues known as "bricking" after the Android 15 update, especially when the new "Private Space" feature is utilized. While not everyone seems to be impacted, the increasing number of affected devices points to a significant problem, and Google hasn’t made an official statement yet.

    The Problem

    According to users, the trouble occurs when the Private Space feature is activated on their Pixel 6 models. Two Reddit users, GegoByte and Homer_95, shared their stories. GegoByte reported that their phone stopped responding right after opening an app in Private Space, while Homer_95 experienced a bricking issue during normal usage, even with plenty of battery life. Both described their phones as “totally dead,” and standard troubleshooting steps, such as pressing the Power and Volume Down buttons, were unhelpful. Connecting to a computer also failed to revive the devices.

    Early theories suggested that the problem might be tied to user profiles, similar to issues seen in the Android 14 update, but the exact reason is still unknown. As more reports of bricked phones continue to surface, it appears that the problem may extend beyond just the Private Space feature.

    New Features in Android 15

    Android 15 has brought forth numerous new features designed to improve privacy and security for users. The Private Space feature is particularly notable, as it enables users to conceal important apps and data in a protected, isolated space. However, this new functionality has resulted in unforeseen complications on some Pixel 6 devices.

    In addition to Private Space, Android 15 includes Theft Detection, enhanced multitasking for foldable devices, and better smart home device integration, as per Google’s official release. While the update has been rolled out for other Pixel models without major issues, the Pixel 6 seems to be facing unique challenges. This raises concerns about specific bugs or compatibility issues with this particular model, leading affected users to be cautious and refrain from using the Private Space feature until the matter is resolved.

    With many reports surfacing about Pixel 6 devices becoming fully unresponsive, owners of this model are encouraged to take care, especially when exploring new features like Private Space. We can only hope that Google will address and fix this issue promptly.

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  • Stable Android 15 Now Available on Pixel Devices: What’s New

    Stable Android 15 Now Available on Pixel Devices: What’s New

    Following the release of AOSP, Android 15’s stable version is now being made available for the Pixel 6 series and newer devices, which includes both Pixel foldables and the Pixel tablet. This update brings along several new features like Theft Detection Lock, Private Space, and App Archiving. Users who have compatible devices can check for the update by navigating to Settings > About phone > System updates.

    Exciting New Features

    Have you heard about Samsung’s Secure Folder? Well, Google has introduced a similar function in Android 15. This feature allows users to create a distinct area on their device to store sensitive applications, protected by an additional layer of authentication.

    Moreover, Android 15 offers App Archiving, a feature that takes inspiration from iOS. This allows users to remove and restore an app’s installation along with its cached files, directly from the Settings app. It’s a handy way to free up storage space when necessary.

    Enhanced Security Measures

    One of the key new additions is the Theft Detection Lock feature, which automatically locks your phone if it gets stolen. But what’s the method for detecting theft?

    Image: Google
    “Through on-device machine learning, Theft Detection Lock can analyze various signals from the device to identify possible theft attempts. If the system detects a theft attempt when your device is not locked, it will secure your screen to prevent unauthorized access,” Google stated.

    Improved User Experience

    With Android 15, users can also easily share their screens without the fear of unintentionally showing sensitive information like notifications, OTPs, and login screens that have passwords. When you perform the back swipe gesture, a preview of the next page will appear. This allows you to quickly decide whether to navigate to that screen or not.

    Additionally, there’s a new feature designed for larger screen devices, enabling users to pair two commonly used apps in split-screen mode. This functionality is notably inspired by Samsung’s OneUI.

    However, it’s worth mentioning that Pixel devices aren’t the first to receive these features. Vivo has already launched its Android 15-based Funtouch OS 15 skin for the iQOO 12.

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