Forget thin phones, here’s the trend users really care about in 2025

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

While there are many things we don’t know about what the 12 months ahead will bring, there are certain phone trends that show signs of continuing into 2025. We outlined these in an article a little while ago and also asked you which of the trends you were most excited about. As it turns out, there was no contest.

As a quick recap, Android phones in 2025 are expected to focus on certain performance improvements. These include much better battery life driven by larger silicon batteries and efficient 3nm processors, alongside substantial performance gains from next-gen CPUs and GPUs. Enhanced in-display fingerprint sensors promise greater reliability, while water resistance ratings like IP68 and IP69 are becoming standard even in budget-conscious brands. Manufacturers may face rising costs, potentially resulting in price hikes or feature downgrades, and rumors suggest a renewed push for slimmer designs.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

While there are many things we don’t know about what the 12 months ahead will bring, there are certain phone trends that show signs of continuing into 2025. We outlined these in an article a little while ago and also asked you which of the trends you were most excited about. As it turns out, there was no contest.

As a quick recap, Android phones in 2025 are expected to focus on certain performance improvements. These include much better battery life driven by larger silicon batteries and efficient 3nm processors, alongside substantial performance gains from next-gen CPUs and GPUs. Enhanced in-display fingerprint sensors promise greater reliability, while water resistance ratings like IP68 and IP69 are becoming standard even in budget-conscious brands. Manufacturers may face rising costs, potentially resulting in price hikes or feature downgrades, and rumors suggest a renewed push for slimmer designs.

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Odds of Samsung bringing the Galaxy S25 Slim to the US sound increasingly slim

• Samsung has long been rumored to be building a “Slim” version of the Galaxy S25.
• New claims suggest the S25 Slim may arrive similarly to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition.
• US carriers may not end up getting access to the S25 Slim, with Samsung selling it exclusively abroad.

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Samsung’s latest and greatest smartphones are right around the corner, with the Galaxy S25 lineup set to debut under one week from now, on January 22. Everyone’s got their own preferences when it comes to phones; maybe you’ve got your eye on a nice, basic S25, or perhaps the camera array on the S25 Ultra has piqued your interest? This year may see Samsung add an extra option to the mix, with the possible arrival of the phone we’ve been calling the Galaxy S25 Slim. But now a new report warns that our assumptions around Samsung’s plans for this model may be in need of serious revision.

Let’s take a quick detour into Samsung’s recent past, and consider the launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition. This hardware represented a sleeker revision of the Z Fold 6, and for much of the time the phone was rumored, we’d been talking about it as the Z Fold 6 Slim. You may have even had your hopes up about taking home this model, and were disappointed when it didn’t get a global release.

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• Samsung has long been rumored to be building a “Slim” version of the Galaxy S25.
• New claims suggest the S25 Slim may arrive similarly to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition.
• US carriers may not end up getting access to the S25 Slim, with Samsung selling it exclusively abroad.

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Samsung’s latest and greatest smartphones are right around the corner, with the Galaxy S25 lineup set to debut under one week from now, on January 22. Everyone’s got their own preferences when it comes to phones; maybe you’ve got your eye on a nice, basic S25, or perhaps the camera array on the S25 Ultra has piqued your interest? This year may see Samsung add an extra option to the mix, with the possible arrival of the phone we’ve been calling the Galaxy S25 Slim. But now a new report warns that our assumptions around Samsung’s plans for this model may be in need of serious revision.

Let’s take a quick detour into Samsung’s recent past, and consider the launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition. This hardware represented a sleeker revision of the Z Fold 6, and for much of the time the phone was rumored, we’d been talking about it as the Z Fold 6 Slim. You may have even had your hopes up about taking home this model, and were disappointed when it didn’t get a global release.

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Samsung Galaxy S25 series rumors and leaks: Everything we know so far

Update: January 16, 2024 (4:10 PM ET): We’ve updated our Galaxy S25 series rumor hub with new information on pre-reservation perks, specs, features, accessories, and new renders.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series launched in the middle of January 2024, arriving a little earlier in the year than the last couple of generations. Along with it, the company introduced Galaxy AI, a titanium frame, new camera tricks, and a number of other features. But now that the Galaxy S24 launch has come and gone, it is time to start thinking about the next iteration in the series. How will the Galaxy S25 series set itself apart from its predecessor? What new features will Samsung come up with for the next generation? Will 2025 finally be the year we see a major shift in the Galaxy S design philosophy? Here, we’ll break down everything we know so far about the Galaxy S25.

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Update: January 16, 2024 (4:10 PM ET): We’ve updated our Galaxy S25 series rumor hub with new information on pre-reservation perks, specs, features, accessories, and new renders.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series launched in the middle of January 2024, arriving a little earlier in the year than the last couple of generations. Along with it, the company introduced Galaxy AI, a titanium frame, new camera tricks, and a number of other features. But now that the Galaxy S24 launch has come and gone, it is time to start thinking about the next iteration in the series. How will the Galaxy S25 series set itself apart from its predecessor? What new features will Samsung come up with for the next generation? Will 2025 finally be the year we see a major shift in the Galaxy S design philosophy? Here, we’ll break down everything we know so far about the Galaxy S25.

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You could be seeing a lot more of Nothing in the US next year

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• A Bloomberg report reveals that Nothing is seeking to raise over $100 million in fresh funding.
• The report states that the company plans to make a bigger push into the US market in 2026.
• Nothing is also reportedly exploring new product categories, though details remain unclear at this stage.

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Nothing, the London-based tech startup known for its transparent-looking smartphones and bold design choices, has big plans for its future. According to a Bloomberg report, the company plans to ramp up its presence stateside in 2026, although the company’s 2025 plans are still focused on other markets.

Since its launch in 2021, Nothing has been a darling of tech enthusiasts, blending standout aesthetics with accessible pricing. Backed by Google’s venture arm and Tony Fadell, the creator of the iPod, the company is currently aiming to raise over $100 million in funding to expand operations.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• A Bloomberg report reveals that Nothing is seeking to raise over $100 million in fresh funding.
• The report states that the company plans to make a bigger push into the US market in 2026.
• Nothing is also reportedly exploring new product categories, though details remain unclear at this stage.

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Nothing, the London-based tech startup known for its transparent-looking smartphones and bold design choices, has big plans for its future. According to a Bloomberg report, the company plans to ramp up its presence stateside in 2026, although the company’s 2025 plans are still focused on other markets.

Since its launch in 2021, Nothing has been a darling of tech enthusiasts, blending standout aesthetics with accessible pricing. Backed by Google’s venture arm and Tony Fadell, the creator of the iPod, the company is currently aiming to raise over $100 million in funding to expand operations.

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Straight Talk rolls out updated prepaid plans with faster data speeds and better value

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Straight Talk has announced updates to its Unlimited Gold and Platinum plans.
• The updates include unlimited premium data, expanded hotspot allowances, and more.
• The new plans are available now online and will be in Walmart stores starting January 20.

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Straight Talk, the prepaid service provider running on Verizon‘s network, has introduced a significant update to its Unlimited Gold and Platinum plans, offering customers more value and convenience. These revamped options are now available on Straight Talk’s website and will roll out to Walmart stores on January 20.

The enhanced plans seem to be designed to meet the needs of today’s data-hungry users. Customers on both plans will now enjoy unlimited premium data on Verizon’s 5G and 4G LTE networks, promising smooth streaming and browsing, even in high-traffic areas. 5G Ultra-Wideband access is also included, claiming to deliver speeds up to ten times faster than median 4G LTE.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Straight Talk has announced updates to its Unlimited Gold and Platinum plans.
• The updates include unlimited premium data, expanded hotspot allowances, and more.
• The new plans are available now online and will be in Walmart stores starting January 20.

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Straight Talk, the prepaid service provider running on Verizon‘s network, has introduced a significant update to its Unlimited Gold and Platinum plans, offering customers more value and convenience. These revamped options are now available on Straight Talk’s website and will roll out to Walmart stores on January 20.

The enhanced plans seem to be designed to meet the needs of today’s data-hungry users. Customers on both plans will now enjoy unlimited premium data on Verizon’s 5G and 4G LTE networks, promising smooth streaming and browsing, even in high-traffic areas. 5G Ultra-Wideband access is also included, claiming to deliver speeds up to ten times faster than median 4G LTE.

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Google Workspace plans now cost more thanks to AI features you may or may not want

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is deprecating the Gemini for Workspace add-on and integrating all of its AI tools into the standard Workspace Business and Enterprise plans.
• As part of this move, the company is also increasing the price of all Workspace Business and Enterprise plans by around $2 per user per month.
• The price hike is effective immediately for new customers while existing subscribers will see changes starting in March.

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In a bid to bring its AI features to more users, Google is integrating all the tools offered as part of the Gemini for Workspace add-on into the standard Workspace Business and Enterprise plans. As part of this move, the company will offer its suite of AI tools in Gmail, Docs, Meet, Sheets, etc., to all Workspace subscribers at no additional cost. However, there’s a catch.

While Google will no longer charge an additional $20 per user per month for the Gemini AI features, it is increasing the price of all Workspace plans by around $2 per user per month. This new pricing goes into effect immediately for new customers, whereas existing customers will see changes starting March 17, 2025.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is deprecating the Gemini for Workspace add-on and integrating all of its AI tools into the standard Workspace Business and Enterprise plans.
• As part of this move, the company is also increasing the price of all Workspace Business and Enterprise plans by around $2 per user per month.
• The price hike is effective immediately for new customers while existing subscribers will see changes starting in March.

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In a bid to bring its AI features to more users, Google is integrating all the tools offered as part of the Gemini for Workspace add-on into the standard Workspace Business and Enterprise plans. As part of this move, the company will offer its suite of AI tools in Gmail, Docs, Meet, Sheets, etc., to all Workspace subscribers at no additional cost. However, there’s a catch.

While Google will no longer charge an additional $20 per user per month for the Gemini AI features, it is increasing the price of all Workspace plans by around $2 per user per month. This new pricing goes into effect immediately for new customers, whereas existing customers will see changes starting March 17, 2025.

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Visible is owned by Verizon and costs less, but is it worth the savings? Here’s my take

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

While many people know that Visible is owned by Verizon, there’s still a lot of confusion about how the two services differ. In this guide, I want to clear up the confusion about what Visible offers, what it lacks, and whether the savings are worth it.

Why trust my take? I’ve been a Verizon postpaid user for years (mainly for work-related reasons that necessitate sticking with a big carrier). However, I’ve also used Visible off and on. Based on my experience with both, I believe each has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the better choice depends on what matters most to you.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

While many people know that Visible is owned by Verizon, there’s still a lot of confusion about how the two services differ. In this guide, I want to clear up the confusion about what Visible offers, what it lacks, and whether the savings are worth it.

Why trust my take? I’ve been a Verizon postpaid user for years (mainly for work-related reasons that necessitate sticking with a big carrier). However, I’ve also used Visible off and on. Based on my experience with both, I believe each has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the better choice depends on what matters most to you.

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Gamers, rejoice! More TVs with four HDMI 2.1 ports set to hit the market in 2025

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Thanks to MediaTek’s Pentonic 800 chip, more manufacturers could offer TVs with up to four HDMI 2.1 ports this year.
• Hisense is the first manufacturer to announce high-end TVs featuring this new chip.
• The company has also shared plans to offer a USB-C DisplayPort port on its 2025 U8Q TV in select markets.

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Several TV makers showcased their latest innovations at CES this year, but one crucial improvement that could greatly benefit gamers purchasing a new TV in 2025 seems to have gone unnoticed. As per a new report from FlatpanelsHD, we could see more TVs with up to four HDMI 2.1 ports this year as manufacturers switch to MediaTek’s new Pentonic 800 chipset.

Samsung and LG are currently the only manufacturers offering TVs with four high-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports. The companies reportedly rely on in-house or customized chipsets to provide this feature on their TVs. In contrast, other manufacturers that use MediaTek’s stock Pentonic 700 and Pentonic 1000 chips are limited to two HDMI 2.1 ports.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Thanks to MediaTek’s Pentonic 800 chip, more manufacturers could offer TVs with up to four HDMI 2.1 ports this year.
• Hisense is the first manufacturer to announce high-end TVs featuring this new chip.
• The company has also shared plans to offer a USB-C DisplayPort port on its 2025 U8Q TV in select markets.

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Several TV makers showcased their latest innovations at CES this year, but one crucial improvement that could greatly benefit gamers purchasing a new TV in 2025 seems to have gone unnoticed. As per a new report from FlatpanelsHD, we could see more TVs with up to four HDMI 2.1 ports this year as manufacturers switch to MediaTek’s new Pentonic 800 chipset.

Samsung and LG are currently the only manufacturers offering TVs with four high-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports. The companies reportedly rely on in-house or customized chipsets to provide this feature on their TVs. In contrast, other manufacturers that use MediaTek’s stock Pentonic 700 and Pentonic 1000 chips are limited to two HDMI 2.1 ports.

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OnePlus Watch 3 could borrow this Galaxy Watch health feature

• OPPO is getting ready to launch its Watch X2 in February.
• A company executive just teased blood pressure monitoring for the Watch X2.
• While OnePlus watches have so far not offered the feature, a Watch 3 based on this OPPO model could finally change that.

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A good smartwatch tracks all kinds of fitness data, from basics like counting your steps, to measuring heart rate and even blood oxygen saturation. And when we’re out shopping for a new one, being one of the first watches on the block with some new sensor tech, capable of recording personal data that other watches can’t, is a major selling point. Today we’re learning about what could be one of the next members to join the still-very-exclusive club of smartwatches that can measure blood pressure, as we get a little teaser about the OPPO Watch X2.

Right now, accurately measuring blood pressure with a device the size of a smartwatch is still a pretty tough nut to crack, and just getting any reading at all can require the use of multiple sensors all working in concert. Some try a miniaturized version of the more traditional approach, like the HUAWEI WATCH D2 and its inflating band. Then there are companies like Samsung that use simpler sensor hardware, but require you to regularly recalibrate with an external blood pressure cuff. Even the next-generation Apple Watch could arrive with blood pressure support.

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• OPPO is getting ready to launch its Watch X2 in February.
• A company executive just teased blood pressure monitoring for the Watch X2.
• While OnePlus watches have so far not offered the feature, a Watch 3 based on this OPPO model could finally change that.

---

A good smartwatch tracks all kinds of fitness data, from basics like counting your steps, to measuring heart rate and even blood oxygen saturation. And when we’re out shopping for a new one, being one of the first watches on the block with some new sensor tech, capable of recording personal data that other watches can’t, is a major selling point. Today we’re learning about what could be one of the next members to join the still-very-exclusive club of smartwatches that can measure blood pressure, as we get a little teaser about the OPPO Watch X2.

Right now, accurately measuring blood pressure with a device the size of a smartwatch is still a pretty tough nut to crack, and just getting any reading at all can require the use of multiple sensors all working in concert. Some try a miniaturized version of the more traditional approach, like the HUAWEI WATCH D2 and its inflating band. Then there are companies like Samsung that use simpler sensor hardware, but require you to regularly recalibrate with an external blood pressure cuff. Even the next-generation Apple Watch could arrive with blood pressure support.

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WhatsApp wants to make your messages more fun with new camera effects and quick reactions

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• WhatsApp has announced several new features inspired by tools from Meta’s other platforms.
• Camera effects from video calls are now available for photos and videos taken directly in chats.
• Quick reactions and selfie stickers have been added to make responding and creating stickers easier.

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WhatsApp, one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms, has unveiled a set of playful new features designed to enhance the chatting experience. These updates, which borrow some inspiration from Meta’s other platforms, include camera effects, selfie stickers, and quick reactions.

The first update comes to the camera effects feature, which is now expanding the tools previously available only in WhatsApp video calls. Users can now apply a range of 30 backgrounds, filters, and effects when taking photos or videos directly within WhatsApp chats.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• WhatsApp has announced several new features inspired by tools from Meta’s other platforms.
• Camera effects from video calls are now available for photos and videos taken directly in chats.
• Quick reactions and selfie stickers have been added to make responding and creating stickers easier.

---

WhatsApp, one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms, has unveiled a set of playful new features designed to enhance the chatting experience. These updates, which borrow some inspiration from Meta’s other platforms, include camera effects, selfie stickers, and quick reactions.

The first update comes to the camera effects feature, which is now expanding the tools previously available only in WhatsApp video calls. Users can now apply a range of 30 backgrounds, filters, and effects when taking photos or videos directly within WhatsApp chats.

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The OnePlus 13 gets Gemini Nano support in its first software update

• OnePlus is rolling out the first post-launch software update to the global version of the OnePlus 13.
• The software update brings support for Gemini Nano, the mobile-optimized version of Google’s large language model.
• It also improves the camera quality, adds new features, and fixes a variety of bugs.

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OnePlus launched the global version of its latest flagship smartphone, the OnePlus 13, to glowing reviews last week. While many, including myself, praised it as one of the best Android phones you can buy right now, we recognized that it isn’t without flaws. One that many reviewers brought up is that nearly all of its new AI features require internet access, a problem that OnePlus could solve with large language models (LLMs) optimized for mobile devices. OnePlus is now rolling out its first software update for the global OnePlus 13 that adds support for Google’s Gemini Nano AI model.

Gemini Nano is the smallest version of Google’s Gemini large language model. It’s small enough to be run reasonably fast on flagship Android phones with ample amounts of memory and AI accelerators, such as the OnePlus 13. Before today’s software update to version CPH2655_15.0.0.402(EX01), though, the OnePlus 13 didn’t support Gemini Nano, as it didn’t have the Android AICore app that’s necessary to download the model. After installing the update, though, my OnePlus 13 now has the Android AICore app. Following a quick update to the app from the Google Play Store, my OnePlus 13 began downloading Google’s Gemini Nano model once I opened the Google Messages app and tapped the Magic Compose button.

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• OnePlus is rolling out the first post-launch software update to the global version of the OnePlus 13.
• The software update brings support for Gemini Nano, the mobile-optimized version of Google’s large language model.
• It also improves the camera quality, adds new features, and fixes a variety of bugs.

---

OnePlus launched the global version of its latest flagship smartphone, the OnePlus 13, to glowing reviews last week. While many, including myself, praised it as one of the best Android phones you can buy right now, we recognized that it isn’t without flaws. One that many reviewers brought up is that nearly all of its new AI features require internet access, a problem that OnePlus could solve with large language models (LLMs) optimized for mobile devices. OnePlus is now rolling out its first software update for the global OnePlus 13 that adds support for Google’s Gemini Nano AI model.

Gemini Nano is the smallest version of Google’s Gemini large language model. It’s small enough to be run reasonably fast on flagship Android phones with ample amounts of memory and AI accelerators, such as the OnePlus 13. Before today’s software update to version CPH2655_15.0.0.402(EX01), though, the OnePlus 13 didn’t support Gemini Nano, as it didn’t have the Android AICore app that’s necessary to download the model. After installing the update, though, my OnePlus 13 now has the Android AICore app. Following a quick update to the app from the Google Play Store, my OnePlus 13 began downloading Google’s Gemini Nano model once I opened the Google Messages app and tapped the Magic Compose button.

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Pre-reserving a Galaxy S25 could win you $5,000 Samsung Credit!

Credit: WinFuture

• Samsung is giving US buyers a chance to win $5,000 worth of store credits by pre-reserving a Galaxy S25 series phone.
• The offer is valid till 1PM ET on January 22.
• Samsung is also offering up to $1,250 in “additional saving” and an instant store credit of $50.

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The Galaxy S25 series will launch on January 22, which means Samsung is doing its best to gather pre-reservations for the new flagship phones. One of Samsung’s Galaxy S25 pre-reservation promotions this year includes a chance to win Samsung Credits worth a whopping $5,000!

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Credit: WinFuture

• Samsung is giving US buyers a chance to win $5,000 worth of store credits by pre-reserving a Galaxy S25 series phone.
• The offer is valid till 1PM ET on January 22.
• Samsung is also offering up to $1,250 in “additional saving” and an instant store credit of $50.

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The Galaxy S25 series will launch on January 22, which means Samsung is doing its best to gather pre-reservations for the new flagship phones. One of Samsung’s Galaxy S25 pre-reservation promotions this year includes a chance to win Samsung Credits worth a whopping $5,000!

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This was the fastest growing smartphone brand in 2024 despite its absence in US

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Xiaomi beat Apple and Samsung to become 2024’s fastest-growing smartphone maker.
• Samsung and Apple, the market leaders, saw marginal declines in market share.
• Xiaomi’s growth was driven by portfolio realignment, premium device focus, and aggressive expansion.

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2024 was finally a good year for smartphone makers following a rough 2023, which saw the lowest phone sales in a decade. According to Counterpoint Research, the smartphone market actually grew by 4% in 2024 compared to the previous year, which is a positive sign for both buyers and phone makers. One of the key highlights from Counterpoint’s latest report is the fantastic growth journey one particular smartphone maker has been having.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Xiaomi beat Apple and Samsung to become 2024’s fastest-growing smartphone maker.
• Samsung and Apple, the market leaders, saw marginal declines in market share.
• Xiaomi’s growth was driven by portfolio realignment, premium device focus, and aggressive expansion.

---

2024 was finally a good year for smartphone makers following a rough 2023, which saw the lowest phone sales in a decade. According to Counterpoint Research, the smartphone market actually grew by 4% in 2024 compared to the previous year, which is a positive sign for both buyers and phone makers. One of the key highlights from Counterpoint’s latest report is the fantastic growth journey one particular smartphone maker has been having.

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ASUS is ditching compact again as Zenfone 12 Ultra launch gets confirmed for next month

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• ASUS has confirmed the launch date for the Zenfone 12 Ultra.
• The phone will debut on February 6.
• We expect the Zenfone 12 Ultra to carry the same specs as the ROG Phone 9, albeit with minor differences.

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ASUS has made the official launch announcement for the Zenfone 12 Ultra, another not-so-compact flagship phone the company plans to launch right after the Galaxy S25 series. ASUS took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that the Zenfone 12 Ultra is coming on February 6 at. That’s a over a month earlier than the previous year, when the Zenfone 11 Ultra debuted in March.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• ASUS has confirmed the launch date for the Zenfone 12 Ultra.
• The phone will debut on February 6.
• We expect the Zenfone 12 Ultra to carry the same specs as the ROG Phone 9, albeit with minor differences.

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ASUS has made the official launch announcement for the Zenfone 12 Ultra, another not-so-compact flagship phone the company plans to launch right after the Galaxy S25 series. ASUS took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that the Zenfone 12 Ultra is coming on February 6 at. That’s a over a month earlier than the previous year, when the Zenfone 11 Ultra debuted in March.

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Google doesn’t care about Android widgets anymore, but Samsung does

Home screen widgets have been a part of Android from the very beginning and the first T-Mobile G1 in 2008. And for a long time, widgets were one of the first answers when you asked an avid Android user why they wouldn’t use an iPhone. They ranked high on my personal list of reasons to use Android back in the day. Times have changed since 2008, though, as has Android, and what used to be one of Android’s greatest strengths feels like an afterthought today.

Apple added widgets to iOS in 2020 with iOS 14, and it’s impressive how quickly they have been embraced by users and developers alike. Almost every app on my iPhone has a useful, high-quality widget that I enjoy using, which isn’t something I can say about my Android phone these days.

But perhaps that shouldn’t surprise us when Google, the mastermind and commander of all things Android, seems to put more effort into its app widgets on the iPhone than it does for its own operating system. I would call that a problem, wouldn’t you?

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Home screen widgets have been a part of Android from the very beginning and the first T-Mobile G1 in 2008. And for a long time, widgets were one of the first answers when you asked an avid Android user why they wouldn’t use an iPhone. They ranked high on my personal list of reasons to use Android back in the day. Times have changed since 2008, though, as has Android, and what used to be one of Android’s greatest strengths feels like an afterthought today.

Apple added widgets to iOS in 2020 with iOS 14, and it’s impressive how quickly they have been embraced by users and developers alike. Almost every app on my iPhone has a useful, high-quality widget that I enjoy using, which isn’t something I can say about my Android phone these days.

But perhaps that shouldn’t surprise us when Google, the mastermind and commander of all things Android, seems to put more effort into its app widgets on the iPhone than it does for its own operating system. I would call that a problem, wouldn’t you?

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All I want from Samsung’s The Frame TV is Google Photos support

Credit: David Imel / Android Authority

Since I saw Samsung’s first The Frame TV, I knew I wanted one. I don’t like the idea of a huge black rectangle in my living room; I love colorful, interesting, eye-catching designs. But for decades, TVs have gotten larger and larger, blacker and blacker, and duller and duller when turned off. The Frame gave me hope that this huge black rectangle could become as interesting when it’s idle as it is when it’s on, all while retaining an art-like glare-free aspect and consuming limited power. Still, I never bought one.

See, if I’m displaying something on a 55- or 65-inch canvas in the heart of my home, it won’t be a famous painting, an abstract drawing, or anything made by someone else. I’m not interested in that, or at least that kind of art doesn’t speak to me enough to make me want to hang it on my living room wall. No, what I’m really interested in is the “art” — and I say that with a tongue in cheek — that I’ve made. The awesome photos I’ve taken with my Pixel phones, my memories, my landscape snaps, my travels, and my life’s important events and people. But Samsung’s approach to uploading personal photos with its SmartThings app is, as far as I can tell, a big dealbreaker if you want that.

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Credit: David Imel / Android Authority

Since I saw Samsung’s first The Frame TV, I knew I wanted one. I don’t like the idea of a huge black rectangle in my living room; I love colorful, interesting, eye-catching designs. But for decades, TVs have gotten larger and larger, blacker and blacker, and duller and duller when turned off. The Frame gave me hope that this huge black rectangle could become as interesting when it’s idle as it is when it’s on, all while retaining an art-like glare-free aspect and consuming limited power. Still, I never bought one.

See, if I’m displaying something on a 55- or 65-inch canvas in the heart of my home, it won’t be a famous painting, an abstract drawing, or anything made by someone else. I’m not interested in that, or at least that kind of art doesn’t speak to me enough to make me want to hang it on my living room wall. No, what I’m really interested in is the “art” — and I say that with a tongue in cheek — that I’ve made. The awesome photos I’ve taken with my Pixel phones, my memories, my landscape snaps, my travels, and my life’s important events and people. But Samsung’s approach to uploading personal photos with its SmartThings app is, as far as I can tell, a big dealbreaker if you want that.

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The upgraded Steam Link app for Android has transformed the way I game in 2025

In recent years, I’ve had a complicated relationship with gaming. Whether you want to call it burnout or mid-thirties malaise, I just couldn’t find the motivation to play my favorite games.

The solution for me has been retro handhelds. Unchaining myself from the PC I sit at all day is exactly what I need to get back into gaming. But what about all those Steam games I’ve impulse-purchased over the years?

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In recent years, I’ve had a complicated relationship with gaming. Whether you want to call it burnout or mid-thirties malaise, I just couldn’t find the motivation to play my favorite games.

The solution for me has been retro handhelds. Unchaining myself from the PC I sit at all day is exactly what I need to get back into gaming. But what about all those Steam games I’ve impulse-purchased over the years?

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I’d give my weight in gold for an all-in-one Google travel app

I just returned from my annual holiday on South Africa’s hot and humid eastern coastline. As much as I enjoy seeing family, eating great food, and even flying to an extent, I loathe the necessary admin that supports my festive fun. Before any holiday commences, you’ll find me face-deep in my phone, juggling multiple emails, boarding passes, restaurant reservations, and a list of attractions I’m interested in. This also includes my partner’s details in case her phone wanders off on its own adventure. This process gets really messy, but it doesn’t have to be. Google can lend a welcome hand with an all-encompassing Google travel app.

There was a time when Google had a travel app in its toolkit. In 2016, it announced Trips, a smart travel agent that managed your errant digital travel paraphernalia. It was well ahead of its time and monitored various services, including Gmail, for transport, accommodation, and restaurant bookings. Users could manually include car rental information and other notes for more personal items. Trips also stretched beyond your email by providing places of interest in the city you’re visiting without any prompts. This was particularly helpful for my first trip to Berlin many years ago when I didn’t know my brot from my brötchen.

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I just returned from my annual holiday on South Africa’s hot and humid eastern coastline. As much as I enjoy seeing family, eating great food, and even flying to an extent, I loathe the necessary admin that supports my festive fun. Before any holiday commences, you’ll find me face-deep in my phone, juggling multiple emails, boarding passes, restaurant reservations, and a list of attractions I’m interested in. This also includes my partner’s details in case her phone wanders off on its own adventure. This process gets really messy, but it doesn’t have to be. Google can lend a welcome hand with an all-encompassing Google travel app.

There was a time when Google had a travel app in its toolkit. In 2016, it announced Trips, a smart travel agent that managed your errant digital travel paraphernalia. It was well ahead of its time and monitored various services, including Gmail, for transport, accommodation, and restaurant bookings. Users could manually include car rental information and other notes for more personal items. Trips also stretched beyond your email by providing places of interest in the city you’re visiting without any prompts. This was particularly helpful for my first trip to Berlin many years ago when I didn’t know my brot from my brötchen.

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It may be time to start accepting that the US TikTok ban is actually going to happen

• The US government has been trying to ban TikTok for years over concerns of Chinese influence.
• Last year a ban was finally passed in to law, requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok by January 19, 2025.
• The Supreme Court has now heard TikTok’s arguments against the ban, but striking down the law sounds increasingly unlikely.

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In just a little over a week, one of the most popular apps the world has ever seen faces being cut off from a huge portion of its user base, as the US TikTok ban threatens to take effect on January 19. Considering the app’s widespread appeal, we wouldn’t blame you for feeling like this ban’s never going to happen — after all, politicians have been threatening to kick TikTok out of US app stores over concerns of China’s involvement for more than four years now, and so far the app’s been just as available as ever. With that deadline now visible on the horizon, TikTok’s looking like it’s in real trouble.

Efforts to ban TikTok really kicked into high gear last spring, as US politicians in the House of Representatives passed a bill requiring TikTok parent ByteDance to either sell the app to another company or face a ban in America. While that bill fell apart in the Senate, a second effort succeeded and became law in late April. That legislation defined the timeline that’s just about to run out, giving ByteDance until January 19 to comply.

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• The US government has been trying to ban TikTok for years over concerns of Chinese influence.
• Last year a ban was finally passed in to law, requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok by January 19, 2025.
• The Supreme Court has now heard TikTok’s arguments against the ban, but striking down the law sounds increasingly unlikely.

---

In just a little over a week, one of the most popular apps the world has ever seen faces being cut off from a huge portion of its user base, as the US TikTok ban threatens to take effect on January 19. Considering the app’s widespread appeal, we wouldn’t blame you for feeling like this ban’s never going to happen — after all, politicians have been threatening to kick TikTok out of US app stores over concerns of China’s involvement for more than four years now, and so far the app’s been just as available as ever. With that deadline now visible on the horizon, TikTok’s looking like it’s in real trouble.

Efforts to ban TikTok really kicked into high gear last spring, as US politicians in the House of Representatives passed a bill requiring TikTok parent ByteDance to either sell the app to another company or face a ban in America. While that bill fell apart in the Senate, a second effort succeeded and became law in late April. That legislation defined the timeline that’s just about to run out, giving ByteDance until January 19 to comply.

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Ads in popular apps exposed a mountain of your location data to hackers

• Hackers have stolen a database that appears to include location data from tens of millions of devices.
• This location info seems to have originated from the ad-bidding process used by popular apps.
• While the FTC has already attempted to limit the ability of companies to gather this data, more work is needed.

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Of all the types of personal information that we like to limit who gets access to, location data has to be right up there at the top of the list. This is exactly why platforms like Android try to be very explicit with privacy permissions, offering users transparency over how apps are able to read their location. But now a concerning new report is shining a spotlight on ways that third parties have been taking advantage of many popular apps to follow our movements.

When you’re using an app like Tinder, granting permission to your location makes perfect sense; the app wants to connect us with people in our area, so it has to know where everybody is. And if you’re smart, you take a moment to read through the app’s data management policies, clarifying exactly what it intends to do with your location info, and how long it plans to save it. But how much concern do you pay to the advertisements that run within these apps?

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• Hackers have stolen a database that appears to include location data from tens of millions of devices.
• This location info seems to have originated from the ad-bidding process used by popular apps.
• While the FTC has already attempted to limit the ability of companies to gather this data, more work is needed.

---

Of all the types of personal information that we like to limit who gets access to, location data has to be right up there at the top of the list. This is exactly why platforms like Android try to be very explicit with privacy permissions, offering users transparency over how apps are able to read their location. But now a concerning new report is shining a spotlight on ways that third parties have been taking advantage of many popular apps to follow our movements.

When you’re using an app like Tinder, granting permission to your location makes perfect sense; the app wants to connect us with people in our area, so it has to know where everybody is. And if you’re smart, you take a moment to read through the app’s data management policies, clarifying exactly what it intends to do with your location info, and how long it plans to save it. But how much concern do you pay to the advertisements that run within these apps?

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The OnePlus Open 2 might be coming for the title of the world’s thinnest foldable phone

Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

• Fresh details about the OnePlus Open 2 have surfaced online, which is believed to closely resemble the Oppo Find N5.
• It is rumored that the phone’s build will include titanium and that it could set a new thinness record for foldables.
• The Oppo Find N5 is expected to launch in February 2025, and the OnePlus Open 2 will likely arrive in the first half of the year.

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The OnePlus Open 2 is proving to be something of a mystery in the world of foldable smartphones. Initially slated for a 2024 release, the device was delayed to 2025. For a while, rumors even suggested the phone might never see the light of day. However, recent leaks suggest that OnePlus (and Oppo) haven’t abandoned the idea of this much-anticipated book-style foldable.

Two prominent leakers, Smart Pikachu and Digital Chat Station (DCS), have shared new tidbits that give us a better idea of what to expect from the OnePlus Open 2. Both seem genuinely thrilled about the phone’s prospects, and their excitement might just be contagious.

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Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

• Fresh details about the OnePlus Open 2 have surfaced online, which is believed to closely resemble the Oppo Find N5.
• It is rumored that the phone’s build will include titanium and that it could set a new thinness record for foldables.
• The Oppo Find N5 is expected to launch in February 2025, and the OnePlus Open 2 will likely arrive in the first half of the year.

---

The OnePlus Open 2 is proving to be something of a mystery in the world of foldable smartphones. Initially slated for a 2024 release, the device was delayed to 2025. For a while, rumors even suggested the phone might never see the light of day. However, recent leaks suggest that OnePlus (and Oppo) haven’t abandoned the idea of this much-anticipated book-style foldable.

Two prominent leakers, Smart Pikachu and Digital Chat Station (DCS), have shared new tidbits that give us a better idea of what to expect from the OnePlus Open 2. Both seem genuinely thrilled about the phone’s prospects, and their excitement might just be contagious.

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Download the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 wallpapers here

Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority

Wallpapers always seem to make it online before actual devices are even announced, and that ended up happening with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. The official wallpapers have been out, and you can still them here.

These Galaxy Z Fold 6 wallpapers come courtesy of YTECHB, and they confirm the wallpaper designs we saw in leaks leading up to the launch. These images feature color-matching designs that hint at the device’s foldable nature, as well as the number six.

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Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority

Wallpapers always seem to make it online before actual devices are even announced, and that ended up happening with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. The official wallpapers have been out, and you can still them here.

These Galaxy Z Fold 6 wallpapers come courtesy of YTECHB, and they confirm the wallpaper designs we saw in leaks leading up to the launch. These images feature color-matching designs that hint at the device’s foldable nature, as well as the number six.

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Long after T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T may finally get nationwide 5G stand-alone support this year

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• A new report suggests Verizon and AT&T may finally be ready to launch its stand-alone 5G network in a wider national capacity, nearly three years or so after both providers started their (very limited) rollouts.
• 5G Stand-alone is a true 5G technology, while 5G non-standalone uses a 4G core and lacks some of the extra capabilities of 5G SA. The former is also much easier to upgrade to 5.5G.

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While T-Mobile has been rolling out its 5G SA (stand-alone) network for a while now, AT&T and Verizon have been much later to the party. Both providers operate 5G SA equipment in a limited capacity, but neither is even close to offering national coverage.  The good news is that, at least according to one new report from the industry analysts at Dell’Oro, this may finally change this year.

Dell’Oro’s data claims there have been eight new global deployments of Stand-Alone 5G in 2024 and several existing rollouts have continued to progress rapidly throughout the year. It also suggests Verizon and AT&T are also stepping up their deployments and are expected to launch in a more nationwide capacity this year.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• A new report suggests Verizon and AT&T may finally be ready to launch its stand-alone 5G network in a wider national capacity, nearly three years or so after both providers started their (very limited) rollouts.
• 5G Stand-alone is a true 5G technology, while 5G non-standalone uses a 4G core and lacks some of the extra capabilities of 5G SA. The former is also much easier to upgrade to 5.5G.

---

While T-Mobile has been rolling out its 5G SA (stand-alone) network for a while now, AT&T and Verizon have been much later to the party. Both providers operate 5G SA equipment in a limited capacity, but neither is even close to offering national coverage.  The good news is that, at least according to one new report from the industry analysts at Dell’Oro, this may finally change this year.

Dell’Oro’s data claims there have been eight new global deployments of Stand-Alone 5G in 2024 and several existing rollouts have continued to progress rapidly throughout the year. It also suggests Verizon and AT&T are also stepping up their deployments and are expected to launch in a more nationwide capacity this year.

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Google Photos wants to streamline how you select your favorite faces (APK teardown)

• Google Photos has been working on an option to show more of a particular person in Memories.
• When we first spotted development, using the option required digging through menus.
• While it still isn’t live, Google has been thinking about bringing the feature to a much more convenient place in the app’s UI.

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Google’s always cooking up new features for its apps, and one of our favorite pastimes is digging through all those updates in the hopes of getting a sense for what additions could be coming next. With as long as development can take, though, sometimes we end up getting to see a feature evolve and change form long before it even debuts for public use. That’s just the boat we find ourselves in today, as we look deeper into Google’s work on a forthcoming tweak to Memories in Photos.

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• Google Photos has been working on an option to show more of a particular person in Memories.
• When we first spotted development, using the option required digging through menus.
• While it still isn’t live, Google has been thinking about bringing the feature to a much more convenient place in the app’s UI.

---

Google’s always cooking up new features for its apps, and one of our favorite pastimes is digging through all those updates in the hopes of getting a sense for what additions could be coming next. With as long as development can take, though, sometimes we end up getting to see a feature evolve and change form long before it even debuts for public use. That’s just the boat we find ourselves in today, as we look deeper into Google’s work on a forthcoming tweak to Memories in Photos.

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Samsung to offer ‘subscription’ service for Galaxy phones, but it’s not what you think

Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

• Samsung’s Han Jong-hee confirmed that the company’s “AI Subscription Club” will roll out to Galaxy phones and the Ballie AI robot next month.
• The name AI Subscription Club is a bit misleading as it’s more of an installment plan for hardware with some after-sales services.
• This payment model is currently available in South Korea, but could make its way to the US.

---

Before Galaxy AI rolled out, there were hints that it may not remain free forever. Samsung didn’t say much to alleviate these fears, only confirming it would remain free until the end of 2025, with plans beyond that being unconfirmed. With that said, the tech giant is rolling out its “AI Subscription Club” for Galaxy phones, but it’s not quite what you think.

A report from ETNews states that Samsung’s vice chair Han Jong-hee confirmed in a press conference during CES 2025 that AI Subscription Club is coming to Galaxy devices. If you’ve never heard of this payment model, AI Subscription Club launched in South Korea last month for some of Samsung’s home appliances. The company is now readying to apply the model not only to Galaxy phones, but also to Ballie AI, the AI companion robot it plans to launch in the first half of this year.

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Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

• Samsung’s Han Jong-hee confirmed that the company’s “AI Subscription Club” will roll out to Galaxy phones and the Ballie AI robot next month.
• The name AI Subscription Club is a bit misleading as it’s more of an installment plan for hardware with some after-sales services.
• This payment model is currently available in South Korea, but could make its way to the US.

---

Before Galaxy AI rolled out, there were hints that it may not remain free forever. Samsung didn’t say much to alleviate these fears, only confirming it would remain free until the end of 2025, with plans beyond that being unconfirmed. With that said, the tech giant is rolling out its “AI Subscription Club” for Galaxy phones, but it’s not quite what you think.

A report from ETNews states that Samsung’s vice chair Han Jong-hee confirmed in a press conference during CES 2025 that AI Subscription Club is coming to Galaxy devices. If you’ve never heard of this payment model, AI Subscription Club launched in South Korea last month for some of Samsung’s home appliances. The company is now readying to apply the model not only to Galaxy phones, but also to Ballie AI, the AI companion robot it plans to launch in the first half of this year.

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Arrest of AT&T rep highlights why it’s important to always double-check what you agree to

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• An AT&T rep was arrested in Connecticut for adding unauthorized charges to at least 30 accounts, though the number may be much higher.
• While this isn’t necessarily a widespread issue, combined with regular complaints about unauthorized charges from all three carriers around places like Reddit — it’s obvious that unexpected charges can and do happen.
• While many unauthorized charges are down to legit errors, bad actors exist and it’s important to stay vigilant.

---

I’m a regular wallflower on the various carrier subreddits, and I’ve seen customers from all three of the big networks occasionally complain about charges added to their accounts without permission, such as phones they didn’t ask for or an upgraded plan that wasn’t necessary. This is true of Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, and while less common, similar practices aren’t unheard of from some of the prepaid providers either. While not exactly the same, I even previously covered a Verizon 5G Home internet issue where a 3rd party rep made claims that proved to be untrue.

I hear the word “scam” thrown around pretty loosely online, but it does make you wonder: how often are these changes accidents versus acts of bad faith from reps trying to improve their commissions by any means? We may never know that answer for sure, but a recent arrest highlights the very real risk involved.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• An AT&T rep was arrested in Connecticut for adding unauthorized charges to at least 30 accounts, though the number may be much higher.
• While this isn’t necessarily a widespread issue, combined with regular complaints about unauthorized charges from all three carriers around places like Reddit — it’s obvious that unexpected charges can and do happen.
• While many unauthorized charges are down to legit errors, bad actors exist and it’s important to stay vigilant.

---

I’m a regular wallflower on the various carrier subreddits, and I’ve seen customers from all three of the big networks occasionally complain about charges added to their accounts without permission, such as phones they didn’t ask for or an upgraded plan that wasn’t necessary. This is true of Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, and while less common, similar practices aren’t unheard of from some of the prepaid providers either. While not exactly the same, I even previously covered a Verizon 5G Home internet issue where a 3rd party rep made claims that proved to be untrue.

I hear the word “scam” thrown around pretty loosely online, but it does make you wonder: how often are these changes accidents versus acts of bad faith from reps trying to improve their commissions by any means? We may never know that answer for sure, but a recent arrest highlights the very real risk involved.

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Did your internet cut out? AT&T says it will start paying you back for outages

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• AT&T is implementing a guarantee for its network coverage.
• If a fiber customer experiences an outage for longer than 20 minutes, the company will give them a bill credit equal to a full day of service.
• Wireless customers will have to wait 60 minutes before they’re offered the bill credit.

---

Losing access to the internet because of a network disruption isn’t fun. But what feels like rubbing salt in the wound is still having to pay for time you couldn’t connect to the service. AT&T customers will soon be spared from this thanks to the company’s new guarantee.

AT&T is rolling out a new promise for its members on January 9 called the AT&T Guarantee. The network provider states that with this guarantee, it wants to deliver connectivity that its customers can depend on. If it doesn’t meet expectations, it will “take action to make it right.”

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• AT&T is implementing a guarantee for its network coverage.
• If a fiber customer experiences an outage for longer than 20 minutes, the company will give them a bill credit equal to a full day of service.
• Wireless customers will have to wait 60 minutes before they’re offered the bill credit.

---

Losing access to the internet because of a network disruption isn’t fun. But what feels like rubbing salt in the wound is still having to pay for time you couldn’t connect to the service. AT&T customers will soon be spared from this thanks to the company’s new guarantee.

AT&T is rolling out a new promise for its members on January 9 called the AT&T Guarantee. The network provider states that with this guarantee, it wants to deliver connectivity that its customers can depend on. If it doesn’t meet expectations, it will “take action to make it right.”

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HP’s latest EliteBook devices have built-in NPUs and the latest Intel processors

Credit: HP

• HP has unveiled several new consumer-level laptops at CES 2025, including three new members of the EliteBook family.
• The Elite X is the most basic tier, with the X Flip offering the same experience but in a 2-in-1.
• If you want the very best features, including a 3K display, you’ll want to look at the new EliteBook Ultra.

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As CES 2025 marches on we’re seeing tons of new laptops from all the usual suspects, HP included. While many of their efforts are around gaming devices like the Omen series, HP is showcasing some great everyday workhorses as well including three new members of the EliteBook family. All three devices share some similarities, including 14-inch displays, but differ in form factor and pricing.

The EliteBook X G1i is designed as the most affordable entry in the new lineup. As for what’s under the hood, the EliteBook X will be powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra 5 and 7 processors, complete with NPUs, up to 2TB of storage, and memory that peaks at 32GB. There’s also a beautiful 2.5k display with peak brightness options ranging from 400 to 500-nit or even 800-nits. It’s also not too heavy at around 3.6 pounds and with a thickness of .69-inches.

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Credit: HP

• HP has unveiled several new consumer-level laptops at CES 2025, including three new members of the EliteBook family.
• The Elite X is the most basic tier, with the X Flip offering the same experience but in a 2-in-1.
• If you want the very best features, including a 3K display, you’ll want to look at the new EliteBook Ultra.

---

As CES 2025 marches on we’re seeing tons of new laptops from all the usual suspects, HP included. While many of their efforts are around gaming devices like the Omen series, HP is showcasing some great everyday workhorses as well including three new members of the EliteBook family. All three devices share some similarities, including 14-inch displays, but differ in form factor and pricing.

The EliteBook X G1i is designed as the most affordable entry in the new lineup. As for what’s under the hood, the EliteBook X will be powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra 5 and 7 processors, complete with NPUs, up to 2TB of storage, and memory that peaks at 32GB. There’s also a beautiful 2.5k display with peak brightness options ranging from 400 to 500-nit or even 800-nits. It’s also not too heavy at around 3.6 pounds and with a thickness of .69-inches.

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These carriers will offer you a free phone when you switch

Today’s best smartphones are not exactly cheap. Most flagships start at around the $800 mark for the base model, and many options exceed $1000 by a large margin, nearly reaching as high as $2k in some cases. But what if you don’t have much cash to spend on a phone? While opting for a budget phone, like the Pixel 8a, is one solution, those in the US have another option. It’s possible to get some of the hottest flagships either for free or at a significantly reduced rate through your carrier.

Let’s take a quick look at all the carriers that offer a free phone when you switch to their network, as well as a few deals that apply to existing customers as well.

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Today’s best smartphones are not exactly cheap. Most flagships start at around the $800 mark for the base model, and many options exceed $1000 by a large margin, nearly reaching as high as $2k in some cases. But what if you don’t have much cash to spend on a phone? While opting for a budget phone, like the Pixel 8a, is one solution, those in the US have another option. It’s possible to get some of the hottest flagships either for free or at a significantly reduced rate through your carrier.

Let’s take a quick look at all the carriers that offer a free phone when you switch to their network, as well as a few deals that apply to existing customers as well.

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Does your carrier support RCS? Here’s a breakdown of the US carriers with official support

For years Google has been pushing RCS as a new replacement for SMS, the current messaging standard. There are many reasons why RCS is superior including support for higher resolution images and video, bigger file sizes, send/receive notifications, and much more. Of course, the standard doesn’t matter much if no one adopts it. Thankfully, the standard is slowly catching on with even Apple adopting it with a few caveats. Of course, there’s another elephant in the room when it comes to RCS: just because a device supports RCS doesn’t ensure wide feature compatibility with other RCS-enabled devices. Each company is free to adopt certain aspects of the standard while deemphasizing other features.

To ensure improved interoperability the GSMA utilizes something called the Universal Profile, which includes a set of RCS features that its partner carriers can adopt universally but this is a pretty slow process, to say the least. Below we take a look at carriers that officially support RCS features, as well as those that adopt the Universal Profile standard. Before we do that, let’s talk about Google Messages.

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For years Google has been pushing RCS as a new replacement for SMS, the current messaging standard. There are many reasons why RCS is superior including support for higher resolution images and video, bigger file sizes, send/receive notifications, and much more. Of course, the standard doesn’t matter much if no one adopts it. Thankfully, the standard is slowly catching on with even Apple adopting it with a few caveats. Of course, there’s another elephant in the room when it comes to RCS: just because a device supports RCS doesn’t ensure wide feature compatibility with other RCS-enabled devices. Each company is free to adopt certain aspects of the standard while deemphasizing other features.

To ensure improved interoperability the GSMA utilizes something called the Universal Profile, which includes a set of RCS features that its partner carriers can adopt universally but this is a pretty slow process, to say the least. Below we take a look at carriers that officially support RCS features, as well as those that adopt the Universal Profile standard. Before we do that, let’s talk about Google Messages.

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Acer’s new gaming handheld has a ridiculous iPad-sized display

Credit: Acer

• The Acer Nitro Blaze 11 and Acer Nitro Blaze 8 are two new handheld gaming devices.
• With a 10.95-inch screen, the Nitro 11 will be one of the largest handhelds on the market.
• The handhelds will be available in the US starting in Q2 2025 at $899.99 onwards.

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Just about every gaming-focused brand is releasing gaming handhelds nowadays, but Acer has mostly flown under the radar. The Acer Nitro Blaze 7 failed to make a splash when it launched in late 2024, but the company has just announced two new devices that are sure to turn a few heads.

Starting with the basics, both Windows handhelds are powered by AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processors and AMD Radeon 780M graphics, with up to 16GB of RAM and 2TB of storage. That’s a fairly capable laptop chipset and the same one that powered the Nitro Blaze 7.

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Credit: Acer

• The Acer Nitro Blaze 11 and Acer Nitro Blaze 8 are two new handheld gaming devices.
• With a 10.95-inch screen, the Nitro 11 will be one of the largest handhelds on the market.
• The handhelds will be available in the US starting in Q2 2025 at $899.99 onwards.

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Just about every gaming-focused brand is releasing gaming handhelds nowadays, but Acer has mostly flown under the radar. The Acer Nitro Blaze 7 failed to make a splash when it launched in late 2024, but the company has just announced two new devices that are sure to turn a few heads.

Starting with the basics, both Windows handhelds are powered by AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processors and AMD Radeon 780M graphics, with up to 16GB of RAM and 2TB of storage. That’s a fairly capable laptop chipset and the same one that powered the Nitro Blaze 7.

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SwitchBot’s new robot vacuum delivers your snacks and holds your tablet

Credit: SwitchBot

• SwitchBot has announced its new Multitasking Household Robot K20 Plus Pro.
• It features a “FusionPlatform” that allows it to carry payloads and perform tasks beyond vacuuming.
• Buyers can add extra kits for tasks such as security patrols or air purification, transforming the robot into a versatile household assistant.

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SwitchBot, best known for its smart robot vacuums, is back in the spotlight at CES 2025 with a device that aims to push household automation to new heights. Called the SwitchBot Multitasking Household Robot K20 Plus Pro, this fresh release certainly emphasizes the “multi” in “multitasking.” While it still vacuums and navigates your home in the usual manner, the K20 Plus Pro promises a host of extra features that extend beyond mere floor cleaning.

First and foremost, the K20 Plus Pro is a robot vacuum. It uses D-ToF Lidar Navigation and dual laser detection to map out your home, creating a detailed layout that helps it dodge furniture, pet toys, and other everyday obstacles. In theory, this should deliver consistent, reliable cleaning without frequent run-ins with objects, effectively minimizing the need for human intervention.

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Credit: SwitchBot

• SwitchBot has announced its new Multitasking Household Robot K20 Plus Pro.
• It features a “FusionPlatform” that allows it to carry payloads and perform tasks beyond vacuuming.
• Buyers can add extra kits for tasks such as security patrols or air purification, transforming the robot into a versatile household assistant.

---

SwitchBot, best known for its smart robot vacuums, is back in the spotlight at CES 2025 with a device that aims to push household automation to new heights. Called the SwitchBot Multitasking Household Robot K20 Plus Pro, this fresh release certainly emphasizes the “multi” in “multitasking.” While it still vacuums and navigates your home in the usual manner, the K20 Plus Pro promises a host of extra features that extend beyond mere floor cleaning.

First and foremost, the K20 Plus Pro is a robot vacuum. It uses D-ToF Lidar Navigation and dual laser detection to map out your home, creating a detailed layout that helps it dodge furniture, pet toys, and other everyday obstacles. In theory, this should deliver consistent, reliable cleaning without frequent run-ins with objects, effectively minimizing the need for human intervention.

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Circular has an app to make sure its new smart ring fits perfectly on your finger

Credit: Circular

• The Circular Ring 2 is a follow-up to the company’s first device.
• It features an FDA-cleared AFib detection algorithm and ECG.
• The new smart ring will be available for $380 in February or March 2025.

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If you keep tabs on the latest fitness trackers, specifically smart rings, you may remember Circular. The company launched its first smart ring in 2023, rivaling competitors like Oura, and now it’s launching a follow-up at CES this year.

Today, Circular announced the launch of the Circular Ring 2. As with any sequel, this device offers a few new improvements and add-ons. The first of which you’ll notice is the new fully circular design on both sides of the ring, as opposed to the original device that featured a flat section on the inner side. Another visual difference is the new colors, which you’ll have your choice of Gold, Black, Silver, and Rose Gold.

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Credit: Circular

• The Circular Ring 2 is a follow-up to the company’s first device.
• It features an FDA-cleared AFib detection algorithm and ECG.
• The new smart ring will be available for $380 in February or March 2025.

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If you keep tabs on the latest fitness trackers, specifically smart rings, you may remember Circular. The company launched its first smart ring in 2023, rivaling competitors like Oura, and now it’s launching a follow-up at CES this year.

Today, Circular announced the launch of the Circular Ring 2. As with any sequel, this device offers a few new improvements and add-ons. The first of which you’ll notice is the new fully circular design on both sides of the ring, as opposed to the original device that featured a flat section on the inner side. Another visual difference is the new colors, which you’ll have your choice of Gold, Black, Silver, and Rose Gold.

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Govee’s latest smart lights bring pixel art to your desk and a speaker to your lamp

• Govee has launched new smart lighting products at CES 2025, namely the Gaming Pixel Light and Table Lamp 2 Pro. The company is also showcasing the recently launched Mini Panel Lights.
• The Govee Gaming Pixel Light features pixel art displays, a retro speaker, and music sync.
• The Govee Table Lamp 2 Pro boasts JBL speakers, customizable lighting, and smart home compatibility.

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When you’re starting to build your smart home, you can opt for smart lighting solutions as one of your entry points. Smart lights are some of the best smart home products to get started with, as there’s plenty you can do to automate them while often adding a touch of personalization. If you are looking for new options in this space, Govee has taken to CES 2025 to launch the Govee Gaming Pixel Light and the Govee Table Lamp 2 Pro x Sound by JBL, and it’s taking the opportunity to showcase the recently launched Govee Mini Panel Lights too.

Govee Gaming Pixel Light

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• Govee has launched new smart lighting products at CES 2025, namely the Gaming Pixel Light and Table Lamp 2 Pro. The company is also showcasing the recently launched Mini Panel Lights.
• The Govee Gaming Pixel Light features pixel art displays, a retro speaker, and music sync.
• The Govee Table Lamp 2 Pro boasts JBL speakers, customizable lighting, and smart home compatibility.

---

When you’re starting to build your smart home, you can opt for smart lighting solutions as one of your entry points. Smart lights are some of the best smart home products to get started with, as there’s plenty you can do to automate them while often adding a touch of personalization. If you are looking for new options in this space, Govee has taken to CES 2025 to launch the Govee Gaming Pixel Light and the Govee Table Lamp 2 Pro x Sound by JBL, and it’s taking the opportunity to showcase the recently launched Govee Mini Panel Lights too.

Govee Gaming Pixel Light

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Samsung may soon let you control your TV with smartwatch gestures (APK teardown)

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• Samsung appears to be working on a “Pointer Mode” feature for Wear OS.
• The feature would allow you to control your TV through your smartwatch with specific gestures.
• You’ll be able to activate Pointer Mode by shaking your watch hand.

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Are you always losing the TV remote or tired of having to get up because it’s just out of reach? You may not have to worry about those problems in the near future. Samsung appears to be working on letting you control your TV with your Galaxy smartwatch.

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Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• Samsung appears to be working on a “Pointer Mode” feature for Wear OS.
• The feature would allow you to control your TV through your smartwatch with specific gestures.
• You’ll be able to activate Pointer Mode by shaking your watch hand.

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Are you always losing the TV remote or tired of having to get up because it’s just out of reach? You may not have to worry about those problems in the near future. Samsung appears to be working on letting you control your TV with your Galaxy smartwatch.

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Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons may have leaked in new high-quality images

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Newly surfaced images appear to show a Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con.
• The images show the inner side and back of the controller.
• It appears the company may be opting for more muted colors this time around.

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Nintendo has been keeping its cards close to its chest when it comes to its next-gen console. Despite that, Nintendo Switch 2 leaks have been coming in hot over the last month, from hardware details to a look at a possible dummy unit. In this new leak, we may have our best look yet at the new Joy-Cons.

A poster on Reddit has shared images of what’s said to be the Joy-Cons for the Nintendo Switch 2. In these images, we see the inner side and back of the device, which is mostly black with a hint of blue on the inner side.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Newly surfaced images appear to show a Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con.
• The images show the inner side and back of the controller.
• It appears the company may be opting for more muted colors this time around.

---

Nintendo has been keeping its cards close to its chest when it comes to its next-gen console. Despite that, Nintendo Switch 2 leaks have been coming in hot over the last month, from hardware details to a look at a possible dummy unit. In this new leak, we may have our best look yet at the new Joy-Cons.

A poster on Reddit has shared images of what’s said to be the Joy-Cons for the Nintendo Switch 2. In these images, we see the inner side and back of the device, which is mostly black with a hint of blue on the inner side.

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Google’s smart home panel is low-key my favorite Google feature ever

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

It’s been a few years since Google took the first steps towards what has now become its most ubiquitous and consistent feature across multiple devices: the smart home panel. What started out as simple controls under the power button on phones running a stock version of Android 11 has morphed into a powerful Android 15 feature that marries Google Home, Pixel and non-Pixel phones, the Pixel Tablet’s dock mode, Wear OS smartwatches, and the Google TV Streamer.

Really? Yes. It’s almost an unbelievable wonder and feat to see so many Google teams working together to carry one feature across devices and ecosystems, but they’ve done it, so let me walk you through what I love most about this smart home panel and how I use it in my everyday life.

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

It’s been a few years since Google took the first steps towards what has now become its most ubiquitous and consistent feature across multiple devices: the smart home panel. What started out as simple controls under the power button on phones running a stock version of Android 11 has morphed into a powerful Android 15 feature that marries Google Home, Pixel and non-Pixel phones, the Pixel Tablet’s dock mode, Wear OS smartwatches, and the Google TV Streamer.

Really? Yes. It’s almost an unbelievable wonder and feat to see so many Google teams working together to carry one feature across devices and ecosystems, but they’ve done it, so let me walk you through what I love most about this smart home panel and how I use it in my everyday life.

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Leaked Galaxy S25 Ultra image shows how razor-thin the bezels may be

Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

• A leaked image is believed to show part of the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
• The image shows off the rounded corners and the slim bezels.

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It won’t be much longer now until we finally get the reveal of the Galaxy S25 series. However, that’s not stopping the leaks from coming out. The latest Galaxy S25 leak gives us a bit of a teaser leading up to Galaxy Unpacked.

Tipster Jukanlosreve (who credits fellow tipster Ice Universe) took to X (formerly Twitter) to share an image of what’s believed to be the Galaxy S25 Ultra. In the image, we get to see the right side of the device and not much more than that. But that’s just enough to give us some details.

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Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

• A leaked image is believed to show part of the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
• The image shows off the rounded corners and the slim bezels.

---

It won’t be much longer now until we finally get the reveal of the Galaxy S25 series. However, that’s not stopping the leaks from coming out. The latest Galaxy S25 leak gives us a bit of a teaser leading up to Galaxy Unpacked.

Tipster Jukanlosreve (who credits fellow tipster Ice Universe) took to X (formerly Twitter) to share an image of what’s believed to be the Galaxy S25 Ultra. In the image, we get to see the right side of the device and not much more than that. But that’s just enough to give us some details.

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Apple could soon owe you money thanks to Siri eavesdropping settlement

Siri icon

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a proposed class action lawsuit.
• The proposed lawsuit claims that the company’s voice assistant violated users’ privacy by recording private conversations.
• If the settlement is approved, Apple will offer up to $20 per Siri-enabled device, up to five devices.

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Have you ever questioned if your devices are secretly listening to you? If you’re an owner of an iPhone or other Apple device, it seems like that may have been the case. The tech giant has now agreed to pay $95 million to settle a proposed class action lawsuit that alleges Siri routinely recorded private conversations and shared that information with third parties for the purpose of ad targeting.

On Tuesday, a preliminary settlement was filed in an Oakland, California federal court. The settlement aims to resolve a lawsuit that’s five years in the making. This lawsuit alleges that Siri would inadvertently activate to record conversations even without a trigger word like “Hey, Siri” being uttered.

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Siri icon

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a proposed class action lawsuit.
• The proposed lawsuit claims that the company’s voice assistant violated users’ privacy by recording private conversations.
• If the settlement is approved, Apple will offer up to $20 per Siri-enabled device, up to five devices.

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Have you ever questioned if your devices are secretly listening to you? If you’re an owner of an iPhone or other Apple device, it seems like that may have been the case. The tech giant has now agreed to pay $95 million to settle a proposed class action lawsuit that alleges Siri routinely recorded private conversations and shared that information with third parties for the purpose of ad targeting.

On Tuesday, a preliminary settlement was filed in an Oakland, California federal court. The settlement aims to resolve a lawsuit that’s five years in the making. This lawsuit alleges that Siri would inadvertently activate to record conversations even without a trigger word like “Hey, Siri” being uttered.

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Visible is owned by Verizon and costs less, but is it worth it worth the savings? Here’s my take

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

While many people know that Visible is owned by Verizon, there’s still a lot of confusion about how the two services differ. In this guide, I want to clear up the confusion about what Visible offers, what it lacks, and whether the savings are worth it.

Why trust my take? I’ve been a Verizon postpaid user for years (mainly for work-related reasons that necessitate sticking with a big carrier). However, I’ve also used Visible off and on. Based on my experience with both, I believe each has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the better choice depends on what matters most to you.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

While many people know that Visible is owned by Verizon, there’s still a lot of confusion about how the two services differ. In this guide, I want to clear up the confusion about what Visible offers, what it lacks, and whether the savings are worth it.

Why trust my take? I’ve been a Verizon postpaid user for years (mainly for work-related reasons that necessitate sticking with a big carrier). However, I’ve also used Visible off and on. Based on my experience with both, I believe each has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the better choice depends on what matters most to you.

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