Do prepaid carriers have domestic roaming? Surprisingly, yes, but it’s not so straightforward

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Over the years, I’ve heard many misconceptions about prepaid carriers — claims such as you can’t get device protection, all prepaid plans are slower than postpaid, or that they lack roaming. While there is a glimmer of truth to some of these claims, many prepaid carriers today buck these outdated trends.

What about domestic roaming, do prepaid carriers offer it? Yes and no. While some carriers offer no form of domestic roaming at all, most larger prepaid providers have introduced at least limited domestic roaming in recent years.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Over the years, I’ve heard many misconceptions about prepaid carriers — claims such as you can’t get device protection, all prepaid plans are slower than postpaid, or that they lack roaming. While there is a glimmer of truth to some of these claims, many prepaid carriers today buck these outdated trends.

What about domestic roaming, do prepaid carriers offer it? Yes and no. While some carriers offer no form of domestic roaming at all, most larger prepaid providers have introduced at least limited domestic roaming in recent years.

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Latest Samsung Galaxy S25 leak gives biggest wireless charging clue yet

Credit: X/@Jukanlosreve

• A leaker has posted an image of a Spigen case for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra on X.
• If real, it reveals that the case includes a magnetic element for MagSafe-style wireless charging.
• This would support other leaks that indicate the Galaxy S25 series will have 25W wireless charging but no Magnetic Power Profile.

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With the Samsung Galaxy S25 series release date rumored to be only a month or so away, related leaks are getting more numerous and detailed. The latest example is a leaked image of a Spigen case for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and it gives us our biggest hint yet about a potential wireless charging upgrade.

The image was posted on X by tipster Jukanlosreve. If genuine, it reveals a liquid crystal style of Spigen case adorned with sketches of internal components of the flagship Android phone.

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Credit: X/@Jukanlosreve

• A leaker has posted an image of a Spigen case for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra on X.
• If real, it reveals that the case includes a magnetic element for MagSafe-style wireless charging.
• This would support other leaks that indicate the Galaxy S25 series will have 25W wireless charging but no Magnetic Power Profile.

---

With the Samsung Galaxy S25 series release date rumored to be only a month or so away, related leaks are getting more numerous and detailed. The latest example is a leaked image of a Spigen case for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and it gives us our biggest hint yet about a potential wireless charging upgrade.

The image was posted on X by tipster Jukanlosreve. If genuine, it reveals a liquid crystal style of Spigen case adorned with sketches of internal components of the flagship Android phone.

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Smart home users may soon be able to turn off Thread credential backup (APK teardown)

Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority

• Google is working on giving users more control over their Thread credentials.
• Users will be able to turn off Thread credential backup if they don’t want their credentials synced to the cloud.
• The option to turn off this feature will appear on the Threads networks page.

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If you’re someone with a smart home, you were probably pretty excited when you got the notification that Thread credentials stored on your phone would be synced to the cloud. This was a pretty big deal as it promised to simplify the setup of new smart home devices and increase security. But what if you’re not interested in backing up your credentials to the cloud? It looks like you may soon have the option to disable this function.

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Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority

• Google is working on giving users more control over their Thread credentials.
• Users will be able to turn off Thread credential backup if they don’t want their credentials synced to the cloud.
• The option to turn off this feature will appear on the Threads networks page.

---

If you’re someone with a smart home, you were probably pretty excited when you got the notification that Thread credentials stored on your phone would be synced to the cloud. This was a pretty big deal as it promised to simplify the setup of new smart home devices and increase security. But what if you’re not interested in backing up your credentials to the cloud? It looks like you may soon have the option to disable this function.

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

Update: December 19, 2024 (03:07 PM ET): We’ve updated our Galaxy S25 series rumor hub with new information regarding the release date, design, colors, and features.

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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: December 19, 2024 (03:07 PM ET): We’ve updated our Galaxy S25 series rumor hub with new information regarding the release date, design, colors, and features.

---

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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An Android phone maker just topped Apple in wearables (and it’s not Samsung)

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• According to the latest IDC data, global shipments of wrist-worn devices dipped slightly compared to last year.
• HUAWEI has overtaken Apple to become the top brand in overall wrist-worn shipments.
• While smartwatch shipments have slowed overall, the fitness band market shows strong growth.

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Shipments of wrist-worn devices — including fitness bands and smartwatches — totaled 139.0 million units worldwide in the first three quarters of 2024, according to fresh numbers from the International Data Corporation (IDC). That’s a slight dip of about 1% from last year’s 140.5 million, signaling that this once-explosive category might be hitting a snooze button, at least temporarily.

The big headline this year is that HUAWEI has overtaken Apple in total wrist-worn shipments, securing the top spot with 23.6 million units moved — an impressive 44.3% boost from the same period last year.

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Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• According to the latest IDC data, global shipments of wrist-worn devices dipped slightly compared to last year.
• HUAWEI has overtaken Apple to become the top brand in overall wrist-worn shipments.
• While smartwatch shipments have slowed overall, the fitness band market shows strong growth.

---

Shipments of wrist-worn devices — including fitness bands and smartwatches — totaled 139.0 million units worldwide in the first three quarters of 2024, according to fresh numbers from the International Data Corporation (IDC). That’s a slight dip of about 1% from last year’s 140.5 million, signaling that this once-explosive category might be hitting a snooze button, at least temporarily.

The big headline this year is that HUAWEI has overtaken Apple in total wrist-worn shipments, securing the top spot with 23.6 million units moved — an impressive 44.3% boost from the same period last year.

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List of all Galaxy S25 colors leaks, and they’re actually interesting this year

Credit: Android Headlines

• Reliable leaker Evan Blass has posted lists of what he says are all Samsung Galaxy S25 colors.
• As expected, the Galaxy S25 Ultra gets its own “Titanium” colors, while the vanilla and Plus models get similar but slightly different colors.
• It’s unclear which colors will be global, which will be Samsung.com exclusives, and which will be regional.

---

We expect the Samsung Galaxy S25 series to launch in January (signs point to a possible January 22 event), but we already know a whole lot about the phones. Thanks to a reliable leaker, we now know even more: all the alleged colorways we can expect across the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra.

This list of colors comes from Evan Blass, aka @evleaks on X. Blass revealed this information in two now-deleted posts. We’ve copied over the info here, though. Check out the lists below!

Leaked Samsung Galaxy S25 colors

Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus

• Blue Black
• Coral Red
• Icy Blue
• Mint
• Navy
• Pink Gold
• Silver Shadow

Galaxy S25 Ultra

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Credit: Android Headlines

• Reliable leaker Evan Blass has posted lists of what he says are all Samsung Galaxy S25 colors.
• As expected, the Galaxy S25 Ultra gets its own “Titanium” colors, while the vanilla and Plus models get similar but slightly different colors.
• It’s unclear which colors will be global, which will be Samsung.com exclusives, and which will be regional.

---

We expect the Samsung Galaxy S25 series to launch in January (signs point to a possible January 22 event), but we already know a whole lot about the phones. Thanks to a reliable leaker, we now know even more: all the alleged colorways we can expect across the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra.

This list of colors comes from Evan Blass, aka @evleaks on X. Blass revealed this information in two now-deleted posts. We’ve copied over the info here, though. Check out the lists below!

Leaked Samsung Galaxy S25 colors

Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus

• Blue Black
• Coral Red
• Icy Blue
• Mint
• Navy
• Pink Gold
• Silver Shadow

Galaxy S25 Ultra

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One UI 7’s Now Bar will give you key live info at a glance whether you asked for it or not

Credit: Samsung

• Samsung will be rolling out a feature for the next Galaxy flagship called “Personal Data Engine.”
• This feature offers on-device, cross-app personal data protection and post-quantum cryptography.
• One UI 7’s Now Bar feature will take information from your most used apps and provide information or suggestions from the lock screen.

---

As the beta for One UI 7 goes on, Samsung is starting to explain the ins and outs of the new features its Android 15 skin will bring to the Galaxy S25. Two notable changes to look out for when the next flagship launches will be “Now Bar” and “Personal Data Engine.”

In a blog post, the tech giant touched on two subjects related to AI — privacy and personalization. On the privacy side, the company is rolling out a feature it calls Personal Data Engine. While Now Bar promises to integrate your daily actions and most used apps into your lock screen.

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Credit: Samsung

• Samsung will be rolling out a feature for the next Galaxy flagship called “Personal Data Engine.”
• This feature offers on-device, cross-app personal data protection and post-quantum cryptography.
• One UI 7’s Now Bar feature will take information from your most used apps and provide information or suggestions from the lock screen.

---

As the beta for One UI 7 goes on, Samsung is starting to explain the ins and outs of the new features its Android 15 skin will bring to the Galaxy S25. Two notable changes to look out for when the next flagship launches will be “Now Bar” and “Personal Data Engine.”

In a blog post, the tech giant touched on two subjects related to AI — privacy and personalization. On the privacy side, the company is rolling out a feature it calls Personal Data Engine. While Now Bar promises to integrate your daily actions and most used apps into your lock screen.

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Want to avoid older, slow Wi-Fi networks? This One UI 7 labs feature can help with just that

• One UI 7 has added a new Wi-Fi filter option to connectivity labs.
• The filters can be combined to make finding a specific network easier.
• Connectivity labs is hidden by default and needs to be enabled within Intelligent Wi-Fi.

---

The One UI 7 beta is in full swing, with the second beta reaching the Galaxy S24 series this week. Most of One UI 7’s changes are quite noticeable, but some are hidden and can be difficult to find if you don’t know where to look for them. One such feature is tucked away in a labs menu and lets you filter Wi-Fi networks based on the Wi-Fi standard they use.

Sometimes, when you’re out and about, it can be hard to find the Wi-Fi connection you’re looking for in the sea of networks around you, so any feature that makes the process easier is a welcome one.

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• One UI 7 has added a new Wi-Fi filter option to connectivity labs.
• The filters can be combined to make finding a specific network easier.
• Connectivity labs is hidden by default and needs to be enabled within Intelligent Wi-Fi.

---

The One UI 7 beta is in full swing, with the second beta reaching the Galaxy S24 series this week. Most of One UI 7’s changes are quite noticeable, but some are hidden and can be difficult to find if you don’t know where to look for them. One such feature is tucked away in a labs menu and lets you filter Wi-Fi networks based on the Wi-Fi standard they use.

Sometimes, when you’re out and about, it can be hard to find the Wi-Fi connection you’re looking for in the sea of networks around you, so any feature that makes the process easier is a welcome one.

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Here’s how you’ll know if an app was built for Android XR (APK teardown)

• The Play Store is making further preparations to identify apps designed for Android XR.
• Apps will be able to display a “Made for XR” label with corresponding headset icon.
• While few apps have declared this support already, Microsoft Edge is off to an early start.

---

Android is coming for your head. With last week’s announcement of Android XR, the door is now opening for a new generation of augmented, mixed, and virtual reality apps that will take full advantage of hardware like Samsung’s upcoming “Moohan” headset. While it’s sounding like Google is making it as easy as possible for developers to bring existing apps to XR, how will you know what software is really optimized for this new platform? We’ve spotted some changes Google is working on for the Play Store that may shine a little light on just that.

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• The Play Store is making further preparations to identify apps designed for Android XR.
• Apps will be able to display a “Made for XR” label with corresponding headset icon.
• While few apps have declared this support already, Microsoft Edge is off to an early start.

---

Android is coming for your head. With last week’s announcement of Android XR, the door is now opening for a new generation of augmented, mixed, and virtual reality apps that will take full advantage of hardware like Samsung’s upcoming “Moohan” headset. While it’s sounding like Google is making it as easy as possible for developers to bring existing apps to XR, how will you know what software is really optimized for this new platform? We’ve spotted some changes Google is working on for the Play Store that may shine a little light on just that.

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Chromebooks are getting a safety reset feature that doesn’t wipe your data

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Google just announced the Chrome OS M131 update, which is rolling out to Chromebooks in the coming days.
• The update’s new Back to Safety feature lets you restore your system to a stable state without wiping your data.
• The update also brings flash notifications and a design refresh for Quick Answers.

---

As everyone starts to feel that seasonal cheer, there’s a welcome early gift for Chromebook users. In a blog post on the official Chromebook support page, Google officially launched the Chrome OS M131 update, bringing a mix of new features and system improvements. One aspect of this release is the new Back to Safety feature, designed to simplify device recovery without the drastic step of performing a full reset.

Previously, restoring a Chromebook to a stable state often required a powerwash, wiping everything in the process. In the new version of Chrome OS, users can select ‘Safety reset’ as a non-destructive way to troubleshoot. The feature resets the Chrome settings and shortcuts, disables extensions, and clears cookies and temporary data — all while keeping your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords intact.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Google just announced the Chrome OS M131 update, which is rolling out to Chromebooks in the coming days.
• The update’s new Back to Safety feature lets you restore your system to a stable state without wiping your data.
• The update also brings flash notifications and a design refresh for Quick Answers.

---

As everyone starts to feel that seasonal cheer, there’s a welcome early gift for Chromebook users. In a blog post on the official Chromebook support page, Google officially launched the Chrome OS M131 update, bringing a mix of new features and system improvements. One aspect of this release is the new Back to Safety feature, designed to simplify device recovery without the drastic step of performing a full reset.

Previously, restoring a Chromebook to a stable state often required a powerwash, wiping everything in the process. In the new version of Chrome OS, users can select ‘Safety reset’ as a non-destructive way to troubleshoot. The feature resets the Chrome settings and shortcuts, disables extensions, and clears cookies and temporary data — all while keeping your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords intact.

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A Christmas miracle: Apple could finally fix the Magic Mouse with new design

Credit: Jon Fingas / Android Authority

• Apple is rumored to be working on a new Magic Mouse, but it likely won’t launch in the next 12-18 months.
• The overhauled Magic Mouse will potentially retire the controversial bottom charging port.
• The upcoming model could also improve the ergonomics and make it more comfortable to use.

---

For years, certain Magic Mouse users have complained about two key design choices: its ergonomics and the charging port. Compared to third-party options, many find Apple’s mouse uncomfortable for extended use. That’s not to mention the need to flip it over whenever a battery top-up is due. Fortunately, the iPhone maker is reportedly designing a new Magic Mouse that could address users’ shared concerns, including a repositioned USB-C port.

According to Bloomberg, Apple is developing a Magic Mouse with a relocated charging port. Notably, the report states that the team hasn’t finalized the accessory’s design, and it won’t launch in the next 12 to 18 months. “Once the design group settles on a final form, it will still take months or years of hardware engineering, software development and operations work to actually bring the mouse to market.”

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Credit: Jon Fingas / Android Authority

• Apple is rumored to be working on a new Magic Mouse, but it likely won’t launch in the next 12-18 months.
• The overhauled Magic Mouse will potentially retire the controversial bottom charging port.
• The upcoming model could also improve the ergonomics and make it more comfortable to use.

---

For years, certain Magic Mouse users have complained about two key design choices: its ergonomics and the charging port. Compared to third-party options, many find Apple’s mouse uncomfortable for extended use. That’s not to mention the need to flip it over whenever a battery top-up is due. Fortunately, the iPhone maker is reportedly designing a new Magic Mouse that could address users’ shared concerns, including a repositioned USB-C port.

According to Bloomberg, Apple is developing a Magic Mouse with a relocated charging port. Notably, the report states that the team hasn’t finalized the accessory’s design, and it won’t launch in the next 12 to 18 months. “Once the design group settles on a final form, it will still take months or years of hardware engineering, software development and operations work to actually bring the mouse to market.”

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Here are all the phones that support bypass charging, and why you should use it

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

With even mid-range smartphones now packing enough processing power to last half a decade or longer, hardware longevity has become an important consideration for many of us. And while the industry has made strides in water resistance and screen durability, one aspect remains: battery health. Even with the precautions of modern fast charging standards like USB Power Delivery, repetitive charge and discharge cycles end up reducing the battery’s usable capacity to quite an obvious extent. Luckily, a feature known as bypass charging can help extend the lifespan of your smartphone with little to no effort.

Google has become the latest smartphone maker to support the feature, meaning bypass charging is now available on recent Pixel devices. So in this article, let’s take a closer look at how the feature works, which Android phones support it, and how to enable it.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

With even mid-range smartphones now packing enough processing power to last half a decade or longer, hardware longevity has become an important consideration for many of us. And while the industry has made strides in water resistance and screen durability, one aspect remains: battery health. Even with the precautions of modern fast charging standards like USB Power Delivery, repetitive charge and discharge cycles end up reducing the battery’s usable capacity to quite an obvious extent. Luckily, a feature known as bypass charging can help extend the lifespan of your smartphone with little to no effort.

Google has become the latest smartphone maker to support the feature, meaning bypass charging is now available on recent Pixel devices. So in this article, let’s take a closer look at how the feature works, which Android phones support it, and how to enable it.

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Apple AirTag 2 rumored to feature iPhone 15-level chip

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Apple could significantly improve the range on its next AirTag.
• The AirTag 2 is rumored to have an ultra-wideband chip that’s on par with the one in the iPhone 15.
• The new chip could triple the range of the previous model.

---

Tired of getting that “not reachable” error because you’re not close enough to your AirTag? Users may see this error less often with the next tracker from Apple as it is rumored to get a significant range boost.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has published his latest “Power On” newsletter, and in it he reveals a big improvement that could be coming to its location tracker. Apple is expected to launch a new AirTag next year and it’s reported that this product will have a new ultra-wideband (UWB) chip. Gurman claims that this new chip could be just as powerful as the chip introduced in the iPhone 15.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Apple could significantly improve the range on its next AirTag.
• The AirTag 2 is rumored to have an ultra-wideband chip that’s on par with the one in the iPhone 15.
• The new chip could triple the range of the previous model.

---

Tired of getting that “not reachable” error because you’re not close enough to your AirTag? Users may see this error less often with the next tracker from Apple as it is rumored to get a significant range boost.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has published his latest “Power On” newsletter, and in it he reveals a big improvement that could be coming to its location tracker. Apple is expected to launch a new AirTag next year and it’s reported that this product will have a new ultra-wideband (UWB) chip. Gurman claims that this new chip could be just as powerful as the chip introduced in the iPhone 15.

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Apple may have supersized plans for its foldable iPad

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple is reportedly developing an iPad that’s the size of two iPad Pros side-by-side.
• The device would be foldable and could turn into an impromptu MacBook.
• It’s said this tablet could be ready around 2028.

---

It’s been long rumored that Apple is working on a couple of foldable devices. One is believed to be an iPhone and the other an iPad-like device. The latest news related to this rumor may have revealed some interesting details about the latter.

In Bloomberg’s “Power On” newsletter, it’s claimed that Apple’s foldable iPad may be the size of two iPad Pros side-by-side when unfolded. The display on this device is said to be close to 20 inches. Apple has reportedly been working on this product for a couple of years and is focused on trying to eliminate the crease.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple is reportedly developing an iPad that’s the size of two iPad Pros side-by-side.
• The device would be foldable and could turn into an impromptu MacBook.
• It’s said this tablet could be ready around 2028.

---

It’s been long rumored that Apple is working on a couple of foldable devices. One is believed to be an iPhone and the other an iPad-like device. The latest news related to this rumor may have revealed some interesting details about the latter.

In Bloomberg’s “Power On” newsletter, it’s claimed that Apple’s foldable iPad may be the size of two iPad Pros side-by-side when unfolded. The display on this device is said to be close to 20 inches. Apple has reportedly been working on this product for a couple of years and is focused on trying to eliminate the crease.

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Galaxy Unpacked 2025 date leaked alongside full announcement lineup

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• The exact date and announcement lineup for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event has leaked.
• According to the information, Samsung will host the Galaxy S25 series launch on January 22 at 20 AM PT.
• The company is also expected to reveal more information about Project Moohan at the event.

---

We’re cruising in mid-December, that means the next big tech launch event is not far away. Samsung has a tradition of launching its S series flagships at the beginning of the year and 2025 should be no different. Multiple leaks have already preempted a January launch for the Galaxy S25 series and we now have another one that reveals the exact date for Samsung’s highly anticipated Unpacked event.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• The exact date and announcement lineup for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event has leaked.
• According to the information, Samsung will host the Galaxy S25 series launch on January 22 at 20 AM PT.
• The company is also expected to reveal more information about Project Moohan at the event.

---

We’re cruising in mid-December, that means the next big tech launch event is not far away. Samsung has a tradition of launching its S series flagships at the beginning of the year and 2025 should be no different. Multiple leaks have already preempted a January launch for the Galaxy S25 series and we now have another one that reveals the exact date for Samsung’s highly anticipated Unpacked event.

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Android 15 is preventing Windows Phone Link from showing certain notifications

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Updating to Android 15 introduces a new feature that blocks untrusted apps from accessing notifications deemed to have sensitive information.
• Windows is now warning Phone Link users that because of this change, it won’t show certain notifications.
• Phone Link should be able to bypass this restriction, but it appears to only do so for Samsung devices running One UI 6.1.1 or later.

---

If you’re a frequent user of the Phone Link app on Windows, then you’re probably used to seeing your phone notifications mirrored on your computer. However, if you update your Android device to Android 15, you may lose the ability to see certain notifications.

First spotted by Android Authority contributor Mishaal Rahman, Phone Link has started to warn users that certain notifications may not appear. In the warning, it explains that some notifications will be hidden due to a new feature introduced in Android 15:

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Updating to Android 15 introduces a new feature that blocks untrusted apps from accessing notifications deemed to have sensitive information.
• Windows is now warning Phone Link users that because of this change, it won’t show certain notifications.
• Phone Link should be able to bypass this restriction, but it appears to only do so for Samsung devices running One UI 6.1.1 or later.

---

If you’re a frequent user of the Phone Link app on Windows, then you’re probably used to seeing your phone notifications mirrored on your computer. However, if you update your Android device to Android 15, you may lose the ability to see certain notifications.

First spotted by Android Authority contributor Mishaal Rahman, Phone Link has started to warn users that certain notifications may not appear. In the warning, it explains that some notifications will be hidden due to a new feature introduced in Android 15:

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Next-gen HDMI could be announced at CES 2025

• It’s reported that a big announcement about the next HDMI standard will made at CES 2025.
• The new standard is expected to use next-generation HDMI tech to provide higher resolutions and frame rates.
• There’s a rumor suggesting that NVIDIA’s and AMD’s next GPUs may be compatible with HDMI 2.2.

---

It’s hard to believe, but the HDMI 2.1 standard launched all the way back in 2017. Compared to its predecessor, it brought support for higher resolutions and refresh rates. After being around for seven years, it looks like it’s about time for a new standard to finally take its place.

This upcoming CES, we’re going to see a lot of new technology and that could include a new HDMI standard. According to Computer Base, the HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. (HDMI LA) is starting to inform media outlets about a significant announcement at the trade event. It’s reported that the HDMI Forum, the group behind the video and audio transmission standard, has scheduled a press conference at the show for January 6, 2025.

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• It’s reported that a big announcement about the next HDMI standard will made at CES 2025.
• The new standard is expected to use next-generation HDMI tech to provide higher resolutions and frame rates.
• There’s a rumor suggesting that NVIDIA’s and AMD’s next GPUs may be compatible with HDMI 2.2.

---

It’s hard to believe, but the HDMI 2.1 standard launched all the way back in 2017. Compared to its predecessor, it brought support for higher resolutions and refresh rates. After being around for seven years, it looks like it’s about time for a new standard to finally take its place.

This upcoming CES, we’re going to see a lot of new technology and that could include a new HDMI standard. According to Computer Base, the HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. (HDMI LA) is starting to inform media outlets about a significant announcement at the trade event. It’s reported that the HDMI Forum, the group behind the video and audio transmission standard, has scheduled a press conference at the show for January 6, 2025.

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Vote for our Reader’s Choice Award for the best phone of 2024! (Voting closed)

Updated December 13, 2024 (01:00 PM ET): Voting has now closed for the 2024 Reader’s Choice Award. Stay tuned for our article and video tomorrow that will announce the winner and show a ton of data about the voting results!

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Original article, December 9, 2024 (01:00 PM ET): Looking at the calendar, 2025 is just a stone’s throw away, and you know what that means: It’s time to figure out the best smartphone of 2024!

Here at Android Authority, we give out two major phone awards at the end of the year. One is our Editor’s Choice Award for the year’s best phone, which we decide internally based on a year’s worth of objective testing, data collection, and our general expertise. Our Editor’s Choice Award 2023 went to the Google Pixel 8 Pro.

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Updated December 13, 2024 (01:00 PM ET): Voting has now closed for the 2024 Reader’s Choice Award. Stay tuned for our article and video tomorrow that will announce the winner and show a ton of data about the voting results!

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Original article, December 9, 2024 (01:00 PM ET): Looking at the calendar, 2025 is just a stone’s throw away, and you know what that means: It’s time to figure out the best smartphone of 2024!

Here at Android Authority, we give out two major phone awards at the end of the year. One is our Editor’s Choice Award for the year’s best phone, which we decide internally based on a year’s worth of objective testing, data collection, and our general expertise. Our Editor’s Choice Award 2023 went to the Google Pixel 8 Pro.

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USB laws are forcing Apple to retire these iPhone models early

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple will stop selling the iPhone 14 series and iPhone SE 3 in Europe by the end of 2024.
• An EU law requires all mobile phones sold in the region to use USB-C ports by 2025.
• These iPhones will be discontinued earlier than expected in Europe, but Apple is likely to continue selling them in other regions.

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The Lightning port’s time in Europe is drawing to a close as Apple prepares to discontinue the last iPhones featuring the proprietary connector. As reported by Generation, Apple will stop selling the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series in European Union markets at the end of 2024. This comes as Apple complies with an EU directive mandating USB Type-C ports on all mobile devices sold in the region. (via 9to5Mac)

In 2022, the European Union introduced a regulation designed to standardize charging ports across devices and curb electronic waste. By the end of 2024, mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in Europe must feature a USB Type-C port, with laptops following suit in 2026. The law is a response to growing concerns about consumer convenience and environmental sustainability, offering users the simplicity of a single charging standard while reducing the clutter of incompatible chargers.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple will stop selling the iPhone 14 series and iPhone SE 3 in Europe by the end of 2024.
• An EU law requires all mobile phones sold in the region to use USB-C ports by 2025.
• These iPhones will be discontinued earlier than expected in Europe, but Apple is likely to continue selling them in other regions.

---

The Lightning port’s time in Europe is drawing to a close as Apple prepares to discontinue the last iPhones featuring the proprietary connector. As reported by Generation, Apple will stop selling the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series in European Union markets at the end of 2024. This comes as Apple complies with an EU directive mandating USB Type-C ports on all mobile devices sold in the region. (via 9to5Mac)

In 2022, the European Union introduced a regulation designed to standardize charging ports across devices and curb electronic waste. By the end of 2024, mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in Europe must feature a USB Type-C port, with laptops following suit in 2026. The law is a response to growing concerns about consumer convenience and environmental sustainability, offering users the simplicity of a single charging standard while reducing the clutter of incompatible chargers.

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You can now ask Gemini to summarize entire Google Drive folders

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Gemini can now summarize Google Drive folders, giving you a quick overview of what’s inside.
• It works with various file types, including text documents, PDFs, spreadsheets, and presentations.
• This feature is rolling out to Google Workspace customers with Gemini plans and Google One AI Premium subscribers.

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Google has been steadily weaving its Gemini assistant into its apps and services, and the updates just keep coming. This time, it’s Google Drive‘s turn to get a boost with a fresh feature that uses Gemini to summarize the contents of entire folders.

Gemini can already help summarize documents, extract quick facts, and even analyze PDFs. Now, it can extend convenience to entire folders, adding another layer of efficiency for users juggling multiple files and projects. The newly announced folder-summarization feature enables users to gain quick insights into a folder’s contents through the Gemini side panel.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Gemini can now summarize Google Drive folders, giving you a quick overview of what’s inside.
• It works with various file types, including text documents, PDFs, spreadsheets, and presentations.
• This feature is rolling out to Google Workspace customers with Gemini plans and Google One AI Premium subscribers.

---

Google has been steadily weaving its Gemini assistant into its apps and services, and the updates just keep coming. This time, it’s Google Drive‘s turn to get a boost with a fresh feature that uses Gemini to summarize the contents of entire folders.

Gemini can already help summarize documents, extract quick facts, and even analyze PDFs. Now, it can extend convenience to entire folders, adding another layer of efficiency for users juggling multiple files and projects. The newly announced folder-summarization feature enables users to gain quick insights into a folder’s contents through the Gemini side panel.

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Here’s why YouTube videos in articles aren’t working the way you expect

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• YouTube has degraded the user experience on some player embeds.
• These affected embedded players no longer let you click on the title link to have the video open on YouTube or the app.
• The company reportedly made this decision to protect its partners and advertisers.

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When watching a YouTube video embedded on a different website, you can usually click on the title to open the video on YouTube or in the app. If you’ve recently noticed that this link does not work on videos in articles, you’re not imagining things. In fact, it appears there’s a reason why this link has stopped working on some websites.

The folks over at The Verge have solved the mystery behind this problem. It appears the issue is linked to the type of player a website uses and YouTube wanting to protect its money.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• YouTube has degraded the user experience on some player embeds.
• These affected embedded players no longer let you click on the title link to have the video open on YouTube or the app.
• The company reportedly made this decision to protect its partners and advertisers.

---

When watching a YouTube video embedded on a different website, you can usually click on the title to open the video on YouTube or in the app. If you’ve recently noticed that this link does not work on videos in articles, you’re not imagining things. In fact, it appears there’s a reason why this link has stopped working on some websites.

The folks over at The Verge have solved the mystery behind this problem. It appears the issue is linked to the type of player a website uses and YouTube wanting to protect its money.

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The big three US carriers have RCS on iPhone, but what about prepaid? Here are your options so far

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

The arrival of RCS to the iPhone means that communication between Android and iPhone users is about to get much easier for those in the US. It’s true this matters less to other countries as most of these regions use WhatsApp universally, but RCS is increasingly important for those stateside.

Android users don’t have to worry about whether their carrier directly supports RCS or not, as the functionality is baked into the Google Messages app itself. The situation is different for iPhone owners, as Apple Messages doesn’t support RCS directly. This means you’ll only get RCS messages if your carrier supports it.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

The arrival of RCS to the iPhone means that communication between Android and iPhone users is about to get much easier for those in the US. It’s true this matters less to other countries as most of these regions use WhatsApp universally, but RCS is increasingly important for those stateside.

Android users don’t have to worry about whether their carrier directly supports RCS or not, as the functionality is baked into the Google Messages app itself. The situation is different for iPhone owners, as Apple Messages doesn’t support RCS directly. This means you’ll only get RCS messages if your carrier supports it.

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Google Wallet is fixing it so you never have to worry about losing your passport (Update: Rolling out)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• ID Pass is rolling out for Google Wallet starting today.
• Users will be able to create and store a digital version of their US passport.
• The app is also adding support for New Mexico driver’s licenses or state IDs.

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Update, December 11, 2024 (03:52 PM ET): Being able to quickly present a digital version of your passport sounded like a great way to speed our way through security checkpoints, while reducing the risk of losing that valuable identity document. After last week hearing about Google’s plans to bring this functionality to Wallet, 9to5Google now reports that it should be rolling out widely to Wallet users. We have yet to spot it on all of our devices, but have a little patience, and it should be there soon.

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Original article, December 6, 2024 (01:06 PM ET): Google Wallet users have been able to create and store digital versions of their driver’s licenses or state IDs for a while now. Back in September, the tech giant announced it would expand this feature to include a new type of digital ID — US passports. It is now rolling out support for passports, as well as support for driver’s licenses and state IDs from a new state.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• ID Pass is rolling out for Google Wallet starting today.
• Users will be able to create and store a digital version of their US passport.
• The app is also adding support for New Mexico driver’s licenses or state IDs.

---

Update, December 11, 2024 (03:52 PM ET): Being able to quickly present a digital version of your passport sounded like a great way to speed our way through security checkpoints, while reducing the risk of losing that valuable identity document. After last week hearing about Google’s plans to bring this functionality to Wallet, 9to5Google now reports that it should be rolling out widely to Wallet users. We have yet to spot it on all of our devices, but have a little patience, and it should be there soon.

---

Original article, December 6, 2024 (01:06 PM ET): Google Wallet users have been able to create and store digital versions of their driver’s licenses or state IDs for a while now. Back in September, the tech giant announced it would expand this feature to include a new type of digital ID — US passports. It is now rolling out support for passports, as well as support for driver’s licenses and state IDs from a new state.

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Google’s next generation of Gemini is here to get some work done

• Google’s Gemini AI models have graduated to version 2.0.
• Beyond just performance upgrades, Gemini 2.0 aims to enhance functionality through access to external tools.
• Agentic AI systems built with Gemini 2.0 promise complex problem-solving skills.

---

A little over a year ago, we entered the era of Gemini. Google’s ever-evolving AI aspirations picked up their latest branding as the company announced its set of Gemini 1.0 models. It only took another month to start moving into Gemini 1.5 territory, and recently we’ve been hearing rumors about when Google might cross the big 2.0 threshold. It looks like those predictions of a December launch were right on the money, as Google introduces Gemini 2.0, designed for the age of agentic AI.

Starting today, you can start trying out the new Gemini 2.0 Flash experimental model. This release delivers not just some big speed improvements over 1.5, but also big upgrades to the model’s ability to generate multimodal output, merging text, audio, and imagery. Devs are getting early access to some of its advanced modes now, but even you can give it a spin by choosing the chat optimized version of Gemini 2.0 Flash with Gemini on the web — and coming soon to the app.

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• Google’s Gemini AI models have graduated to version 2.0.
• Beyond just performance upgrades, Gemini 2.0 aims to enhance functionality through access to external tools.
• Agentic AI systems built with Gemini 2.0 promise complex problem-solving skills.

---

A little over a year ago, we entered the era of Gemini. Google’s ever-evolving AI aspirations picked up their latest branding as the company announced its set of Gemini 1.0 models. It only took another month to start moving into Gemini 1.5 territory, and recently we’ve been hearing rumors about when Google might cross the big 2.0 threshold. It looks like those predictions of a December launch were right on the money, as Google introduces Gemini 2.0, designed for the age of agentic AI.

Starting today, you can start trying out the new Gemini 2.0 Flash experimental model. This release delivers not just some big speed improvements over 1.5, but also big upgrades to the model’s ability to generate multimodal output, merging text, audio, and imagery. Devs are getting early access to some of its advanced modes now, but even you can give it a spin by choosing the chat optimized version of Gemini 2.0 Flash with Gemini on the web — and coming soon to the app.

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Google Pixel 8a deal: Our favorite budget phone is even cheaper today

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

If you had to ask us which the best budget phone is, the most straightforward pick would be the Google Pixel 8a. At just $499, it offers a fantastic balance between value and price. It’s currently $100 off, though, slashing the price to just $399. This is a total steal, and it just so happens to be a record-low price for this device.

Buy the Google Pixel 8a for only $399

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

If you had to ask us which the best budget phone is, the most straightforward pick would be the Google Pixel 8a. At just $499, it offers a fantastic balance between value and price. It’s currently $100 off, though, slashing the price to just $399. This is a total steal, and it just so happens to be a record-low price for this device.

Buy the Google Pixel 8a for only $399

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Metro by T-Mobile whistleblower raises concerns of deceptive sales practices

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Metro by T-Mobile stores are reportedly under pressure to slam customers by adding unwanted features to their accounts.
• These stores are pressured to sell accessories like cases, chargers, and insurance to meet sales targets.
• T-Mobile faced similar allegations in July, with reports of deceptive sales practices in their main stores as well.

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T-Mobile is once again facing accusations of shady sales tactics, which are now spilling over into its Metro by T-Mobile stores. Back in July, PhoneArena interviewed an anonymous T-Mobile expert who claimed that unrealistic employee metrics were driving some reps to add lines and features to customer accounts without their consent. A Reddit user even reported being forced to buy a bundle of accessories just to purchase an iPhone.

T-Mobile was quick to issue a statement denying these claims, but now, just six months later, PhoneArena has uncovered evidence suggesting the problem is even more widespread than initially thought.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Metro by T-Mobile stores are reportedly under pressure to slam customers by adding unwanted features to their accounts.
• These stores are pressured to sell accessories like cases, chargers, and insurance to meet sales targets.
• T-Mobile faced similar allegations in July, with reports of deceptive sales practices in their main stores as well.

---

T-Mobile is once again facing accusations of shady sales tactics, which are now spilling over into its Metro by T-Mobile stores. Back in July, PhoneArena interviewed an anonymous T-Mobile expert who claimed that unrealistic employee metrics were driving some reps to add lines and features to customer accounts without their consent. A Reddit user even reported being forced to buy a bundle of accessories just to purchase an iPhone.

T-Mobile was quick to issue a statement denying these claims, but now, just six months later, PhoneArena has uncovered evidence suggesting the problem is even more widespread than initially thought.

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App archiving in One UI 7 helps you free up space on your Samsung phone

• Samsung’s upcoming One UI 7 update will include support for Android 15’s app archiving feature.
• App archiving frees up storage space by removing an app’s installation files without removing its data.
• Although app archiving is an Android 15 feature, it’s up to OEMs to implement it, but some have chosen not to.

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One of the top new features in Android 15 is called app archiving, and it’s a tool that frees up storage space by letting you delete an app’s installation and temporary files without touching its data. Archiving an app lets you free up some space without forcing you to fully reinstall it the next time you want to use it, saving you the hassle of setting it up again. Although app archiving is part of Android 15, manufacturers decide whether or not they want to implement it in their own versions of the operating system. Some have already chosen not to, but thankfully, it looks like Samsung is bringing this feature to its flavor of Android.

Samsung finally rolled out the first beta for its upcoming One UI 7 release late last week, giving us a sneak peek at what to expect in the company’s big update. While many of the new features are exclusive to Samsung devices, some, like app archiving support, stem from the open source version of Android that Samsung based its software on. Code for app archiving is indeed available in AOSP, but the feature itself is disabled by default. But now according to some One UI 7 beta testers, the feature is available for them, suggesting that Samsung has turned it on.

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• Samsung’s upcoming One UI 7 update will include support for Android 15’s app archiving feature.
• App archiving frees up storage space by removing an app’s installation files without removing its data.
• Although app archiving is an Android 15 feature, it’s up to OEMs to implement it, but some have chosen not to.

---

One of the top new features in Android 15 is called app archiving, and it’s a tool that frees up storage space by letting you delete an app’s installation and temporary files without touching its data. Archiving an app lets you free up some space without forcing you to fully reinstall it the next time you want to use it, saving you the hassle of setting it up again. Although app archiving is part of Android 15, manufacturers decide whether or not they want to implement it in their own versions of the operating system. Some have already chosen not to, but thankfully, it looks like Samsung is bringing this feature to its flavor of Android.

Samsung finally rolled out the first beta for its upcoming One UI 7 release late last week, giving us a sneak peek at what to expect in the company’s big update. While many of the new features are exclusive to Samsung devices, some, like app archiving support, stem from the open source version of Android that Samsung based its software on. Code for app archiving is indeed available in AOSP, but the feature itself is disabled by default. But now according to some One UI 7 beta testers, the feature is available for them, suggesting that Samsung has turned it on.

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Samsung’s giving you more control over charging options in One UI 7

• Samsung has some new battery options for charging in the One UI 7 beta.
• Previously, the “maximum” mode limited charging to 80%.
• With One UI 7 you can move that limit as high as 95%.

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If there’s one smartphone component that everybody’s got a bit of a love/hate relationship with, it’s got to be our phones’ batteries. Modern batteries are energy-dense, fast to charge, and make our power-hungry phones as useful as they are. But they also demand constant attention, especially when it comes to making sure they’re charged when we need them. With this month’s release of the One UI 7 beta, Samsung’s giving Galaxy users one convenient new way to keep their batteries happy and healthy.

Batteries are temperamental chemical cocktails that sometimes feel like they’re just doing everything they can to burst into flames. And as a consequence of that delicate nature, pushing them as hard as we can, all the time, is a sure-fire way to hurt their long-term storage capacity. That’s exactly why Android has cooked up systems like Adaptive Charging, where rather than charging your phone all the way up to 100% whenever you plug it in, the charge level your battery is held at is limited to 80%, supposedly extending its life.

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• Samsung has some new battery options for charging in the One UI 7 beta.
• Previously, the “maximum” mode limited charging to 80%.
• With One UI 7 you can move that limit as high as 95%.

---

If there’s one smartphone component that everybody’s got a bit of a love/hate relationship with, it’s got to be our phones’ batteries. Modern batteries are energy-dense, fast to charge, and make our power-hungry phones as useful as they are. But they also demand constant attention, especially when it comes to making sure they’re charged when we need them. With this month’s release of the One UI 7 beta, Samsung’s giving Galaxy users one convenient new way to keep their batteries happy and healthy.

Batteries are temperamental chemical cocktails that sometimes feel like they’re just doing everything they can to burst into flames. And as a consequence of that delicate nature, pushing them as hard as we can, all the time, is a sure-fire way to hurt their long-term storage capacity. That’s exactly why Android has cooked up systems like Adaptive Charging, where rather than charging your phone all the way up to 100% whenever you plug it in, the charge level your battery is held at is limited to 80%, supposedly extending its life.

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Google could give Gemini’s new compact overlay a more colorful look (APK teardown)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google recently rolled out a redesigned compact Gemini overlay to users.
• The company is now testing a colorful new animation for the updated overlay.
• It adds a more prominent animated border in Gemini’s signature colors around the text box.

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Google recently gave Gemini‘s contextual overlay a much-needed design refresh, decreasing its footprint and condensing suggestions into pill-shaped bubbles that appear on top of the left half of the text box. The updated overlay started rolling out to users last week, but it appears Google has another change in the works.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google recently rolled out a redesigned compact Gemini overlay to users.
• The company is now testing a colorful new animation for the updated overlay.
• It adds a more prominent animated border in Gemini’s signature colors around the text box.

---

Google recently gave Gemini‘s contextual overlay a much-needed design refresh, decreasing its footprint and condensing suggestions into pill-shaped bubbles that appear on top of the left half of the text box. The updated overlay started rolling out to users last week, but it appears Google has another change in the works.

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Google just gave you much more time to move your Stadia controller away from Stadia (RIP)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google has extended the time limit you have to convert a Google Stadia controller to Bluetooth.
• You now have until December 31, 2025, representing an extension of one year.
• It might come to pass that this extension window lasts longer than Stadia did.

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When Google decided to send Google Stadia to the Graveyard, it unfortunately meant the end of one of the best things to come from the game streaming platform: the controller. The Google Stadia controller is kind of like a mash-up of the three best modern controllers: the inline sticks of the Sony DualSense controller, the spacing and general button placement of the Xbox Series controller, and the overall playfulness of the Nintendo Switch Pro controller. It was then all wrapped up in the Google aesthetic, making it very comfortable to hold and easy on the eyes.

However, with the death of Stadia came the death of this controller. Out of the box, the controller doesn’t work with anything but Stadia. Thankfully, Google announced a system to convert Stadia controllers to standard Bluetooth connectivity, essentially turning it into a generic gaming controller. This allows you to use it with anything you want, really: PC games, mobile games, emulators, etc.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google has extended the time limit you have to convert a Google Stadia controller to Bluetooth.
• You now have until December 31, 2025, representing an extension of one year.
• It might come to pass that this extension window lasts longer than Stadia did.

---

When Google decided to send Google Stadia to the Graveyard, it unfortunately meant the end of one of the best things to come from the game streaming platform: the controller. The Google Stadia controller is kind of like a mash-up of the three best modern controllers: the inline sticks of the Sony DualSense controller, the spacing and general button placement of the Xbox Series controller, and the overall playfulness of the Nintendo Switch Pro controller. It was then all wrapped up in the Google aesthetic, making it very comfortable to hold and easy on the eyes.

However, with the death of Stadia came the death of this controller. Out of the box, the controller doesn’t work with anything but Stadia. Thankfully, Google announced a system to convert Stadia controllers to standard Bluetooth connectivity, essentially turning it into a generic gaming controller. This allows you to use it with anything you want, really: PC games, mobile games, emulators, etc.

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No Wi-Fi, no problem: Apple could bring cellular support to Macs

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple is reportedly thinking about bringing cellular connectivity to Macs and future XR products.
• You might have to wait until 2026 to see the first Macs with this connectivity option.
• The news comes as Apple gears up to launch its first in-house modem.

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Apple has been working on its own cellular modem for years now, and it sounds like this component could debut inside the next iPhone SE and the iPhone 17 Air. However, it seems like cellular connectivity could come to more Apple categories.

Bloomberg reports that Apple is exploring the idea of bringing cellular connectivity to its Macs. The iPhone maker is also said to be considering cellular connectivity for future headsets, including follow-ups to the Vision Pro XR headset. If confirmed, these products would join the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch in supporting cellular connections.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple is reportedly thinking about bringing cellular connectivity to Macs and future XR products.
• You might have to wait until 2026 to see the first Macs with this connectivity option.
• The news comes as Apple gears up to launch its first in-house modem.

---

Apple has been working on its own cellular modem for years now, and it sounds like this component could debut inside the next iPhone SE and the iPhone 17 Air. However, it seems like cellular connectivity could come to more Apple categories.

Bloomberg reports that Apple is exploring the idea of bringing cellular connectivity to its Macs. The iPhone maker is also said to be considering cellular connectivity for future headsets, including follow-ups to the Vision Pro XR headset. If confirmed, these products would join the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch in supporting cellular connections.

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Start saving: iPhone 18 Pro could introduce a major price hike

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple could be the first to adopt TSMC’s 2nm chips when it launches the iPhone 18 Pro in late 2026.
• The upgraded iPhone application processor could cost Apple 70% more than its predecessor, a steep jump from $50 to $85.
• Non-Pro iPhone 18 models will likely stick to a 3nm processor to cut costs.

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While Apple just released the iPhone 16 series a couple of months ago, iPhone 17 and 18 leaks are already circulating the web. In 2026, Apple is rumored to adopt TSMC’s costly 2-nanometer processors for the first time, which could consequently raise the price of the iPhone 18 Pro.

According to Ctee (via Twitter user @Jukanlosreve), the shift from 3nm to 2nm could cost Apple an extra $35 per iPhone application processor — a whopping 70% increase from $50 to $85. So, if Apple doesn’t pay the price difference out of pocket, iPhone 18 Pro models could cost users more. To maintain the affordability of non-Pro iPhones, the Cupertino firm will likely stick to 3nm chipsets.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Apple could be the first to adopt TSMC’s 2nm chips when it launches the iPhone 18 Pro in late 2026.
• The upgraded iPhone application processor could cost Apple 70% more than its predecessor, a steep jump from $50 to $85.
• Non-Pro iPhone 18 models will likely stick to a 3nm processor to cut costs.

---

While Apple just released the iPhone 16 series a couple of months ago, iPhone 17 and 18 leaks are already circulating the web. In 2026, Apple is rumored to adopt TSMC’s costly 2-nanometer processors for the first time, which could consequently raise the price of the iPhone 18 Pro.

According to Ctee (via Twitter user @Jukanlosreve), the shift from 3nm to 2nm could cost Apple an extra $35 per iPhone application processor — a whopping 70% increase from $50 to $85. So, if Apple doesn’t pay the price difference out of pocket, iPhone 18 Pro models could cost users more. To maintain the affordability of non-Pro iPhones, the Cupertino firm will likely stick to 3nm chipsets.

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Samsung could copy one of the Pixel’s best AI features

Credit: Google

• A leaker has claimed that Samsung is working on an Audio Eraser feature.
• This would follow in the Pixel line’s footsteps by letting you eliminate distracting sounds in a video.
• The feature is tipped to arrive in the next version of One UI 7.

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One of the coolest AI features we’ve seen on smartphones is the Audio Magic Eraser capability on recent Pixel phones. This allows you to effectively erase distracting sounds in a video. Now, it looks like Samsung will offer a similar feature in the future.

Leaker Ice Universe claimed on Weibo that Samsung is working on a so-called Audio Eraser tool. The tipster says this feature is coming in the “next version” of One UI 7, while also posting a screenshot. You can view it below.

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Credit: Google

• A leaker has claimed that Samsung is working on an Audio Eraser feature.
• This would follow in the Pixel line’s footsteps by letting you eliminate distracting sounds in a video.
• The feature is tipped to arrive in the next version of One UI 7.

---

One of the coolest AI features we’ve seen on smartphones is the Audio Magic Eraser capability on recent Pixel phones. This allows you to effectively erase distracting sounds in a video. Now, it looks like Samsung will offer a similar feature in the future.

Leaker Ice Universe claimed on Weibo that Samsung is working on a so-called Audio Eraser tool. The tipster says this feature is coming in the “next version” of One UI 7, while also posting a screenshot. You can view it below.

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PSA: Verizon Message Plus shuts down today, time to switch to replacement apps

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Verizon Message Plus is shutting down today.
• Users won’t be able to send or receive messages, and the app itself won’t be available to download.
• Verizon recommends switching to Google Messages or Apple Messages, depending on your device.

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Verizon is finally shutting down its Message Plus app today. The gradual shutdown of the app started in October, but as of today, the app will be fully discontinued. This means three things — you will no longer be able to use Message Plus to send or receive messages, any messages you may have scheduled to be sent out today or after will not be sent, and you will no longer be able to download Message Plus from the Google Play Store or the App Store.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Verizon Message Plus is shutting down today.
• Users won’t be able to send or receive messages, and the app itself won’t be available to download.
• Verizon recommends switching to Google Messages or Apple Messages, depending on your device.

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Verizon is finally shutting down its Message Plus app today. The gradual shutdown of the app started in October, but as of today, the app will be fully discontinued. This means three things — you will no longer be able to use Message Plus to send or receive messages, any messages you may have scheduled to be sent out today or after will not be sent, and you will no longer be able to download Message Plus from the Google Play Store or the App Store.

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Unless my phone can be a PC too, I don’t want to keep paying for extra performance

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

Opinion post by

Robert Triggs

When was the last time you felt your smartphone really couldn’t cope? I’m running last year’s Pixel 8 Pro — hardly a benchmark topper — as my daily driver, and just as silky smooth as the more powerful ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro I’ve been using on the side. But even before that, I struggle to recall the last time an app jerked and juddered into life. Outside of a few niche use cases, smartphone power has been bountiful for a few years now, but to jump up another level, modern manufacturing is making it more and more expensive but with few real-world benefits. We might have already passed the point of diminishing returns, but we’re also paying more and more for the privilege.

This year’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite is a prime example; it offers significant leaps in benchmark performance but is said to be considerably more expensive than its predecessor. Likewise, MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 commands a higher price tag too, yet you’ll struggle to tell a phone packing these chips apart from last year’s model when it’s in hand. Money thrown at higher benchmark scores could be spent on better cameras, newer battery tech, or anything else on your wishlist. Returning to the ROG, the baseline model has dropped the telephoto camera, no doubt to keep up with the spiraling costs of top-tier performance.

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

Opinion post by

Robert Triggs

When was the last time you felt your smartphone really couldn’t cope? I’m running last year’s Pixel 8 Pro — hardly a benchmark topper — as my daily driver, and just as silky smooth as the more powerful ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro I’ve been using on the side. But even before that, I struggle to recall the last time an app jerked and juddered into life. Outside of a few niche use cases, smartphone power has been bountiful for a few years now, but to jump up another level, modern manufacturing is making it more and more expensive but with few real-world benefits. We might have already passed the point of diminishing returns, but we’re also paying more and more for the privilege.

This year’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite is a prime example; it offers significant leaps in benchmark performance but is said to be considerably more expensive than its predecessor. Likewise, MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 commands a higher price tag too, yet you’ll struggle to tell a phone packing these chips apart from last year’s model when it’s in hand. Money thrown at higher benchmark scores could be spent on better cameras, newer battery tech, or anything else on your wishlist. Returning to the ROG, the baseline model has dropped the telephoto camera, no doubt to keep up with the spiraling costs of top-tier performance.

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The Apple Watch doesn’t support Android, but one brand might have an answer

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• Xiaomi is reportedly investigating the feasibility of its devices supporting Apple hardware, including the Apple Watch.
• This would be a big deal as the Apple Watch doesn’t support Android devices at all.
• The news comes after Xiaomi announced that its Xiaomi 15 series can interact with Apple Macs, iPhones, and iPads.

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The Apple Watch doesn’t support Android, forcing people to buy an iPhone or use limited workarounds. However, this situation might change, as a major Android brand is apparently investigating a solution.

Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station reports that Xiaomi is investigating support for Apple hardware, namely the Apple Watch, AirPods, and the HomePod. Check out the machine-translated post below.

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Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• Xiaomi is reportedly investigating the feasibility of its devices supporting Apple hardware, including the Apple Watch.
• This would be a big deal as the Apple Watch doesn’t support Android devices at all.
• The news comes after Xiaomi announced that its Xiaomi 15 series can interact with Apple Macs, iPhones, and iPads.

---

The Apple Watch doesn’t support Android, forcing people to buy an iPhone or use limited workarounds. However, this situation might change, as a major Android brand is apparently investigating a solution.

Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station reports that Xiaomi is investigating support for Apple hardware, namely the Apple Watch, AirPods, and the HomePod. Check out the machine-translated post below.

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The Galaxy S24 series was a sales hit, but Samsung has even higher hopes for S25

Credit: Android Headlines

• Samsung reportedly aims to ship 37 million Galaxy S25 series phones in 2025, up from ~35 million Galaxy S24 series phones this year.
• The news comes after Samsung reported that the Galaxy S24 series was a hit, shipping more units than the Galaxy S23 range.

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The Samsung Galaxy S24 series was a commercial success for the Korean brand, as the company saw shipment growth compared to last year’s phones. Samsung seems to have even higher hopes for the Galaxy S25 range, though.

The Elec reports that Samsung aims to ship roughly 37 million Galaxy S25 series phones next year, up slightly from the predicted 35 million Galaxy S24 series devices this year. This suggests that the company has even higher hopes for the upcoming phones.

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Credit: Android Headlines

• Samsung reportedly aims to ship 37 million Galaxy S25 series phones in 2025, up from ~35 million Galaxy S24 series phones this year.
• The news comes after Samsung reported that the Galaxy S24 series was a hit, shipping more units than the Galaxy S23 range.

---

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series was a commercial success for the Korean brand, as the company saw shipment growth compared to last year’s phones. Samsung seems to have even higher hopes for the Galaxy S25 range, though.

The Elec reports that Samsung aims to ship roughly 37 million Galaxy S25 series phones next year, up slightly from the predicted 35 million Galaxy S24 series devices this year. This suggests that the company has even higher hopes for the upcoming phones.

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Why are we still fighting smartphone bloatware in 2025?

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

As a Pixel daily driver for the past couple of years, I’ve become accustomed to the sleek and unintrustive nature of Pixel UI. However, OPPO’s return to UK shores has my inner photographer excited, so this morning, I rushed to boot up the Find X8 Pro, only for ColorOS to stop me in my tracks. Holy crab, I thought, that’s a ton of bloatware!

Honestly, nothing takes the shine off a swanky new flagship faster than spam notifications and wasting even just a handful of minutes uninstalling apps you never wanted and will never use. No one has enjoyed doing this in the past two decades of smartphones, so who keeps telling the brand bigwigs to keep up with this utter nonsense?

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

As a Pixel daily driver for the past couple of years, I’ve become accustomed to the sleek and unintrustive nature of Pixel UI. However, OPPO’s return to UK shores has my inner photographer excited, so this morning, I rushed to boot up the Find X8 Pro, only for ColorOS to stop me in my tracks. Holy crab, I thought, that’s a ton of bloatware!

Honestly, nothing takes the shine off a swanky new flagship faster than spam notifications and wasting even just a handful of minutes uninstalling apps you never wanted and will never use. No one has enjoyed doing this in the past two decades of smartphones, so who keeps telling the brand bigwigs to keep up with this utter nonsense?

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Broke your Xbox after rage quitting? You can now fix it with official parts from iFixit

Credit: Adamya Sharma / Android Authority

• You can now find official Microsoft parts for the Xbox Series X and S on iFixit.
• There are also step-by-step repair guides for both the digital and disk drive editions.

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iFixit is best known for supplying replacement parts for phones, tablets, and computers. Game systems are also included in its long list of categories, and that section is about to get a little bigger with the inclusion of Microsoft’s latest consoles.

Today, iFixit is expanding its game console parts category with official parts for the Xbox Series X and S. Also on the iFixit website, you’ll see step-by-step repair guides for the Series X and S, as well as guides for both the digital and disk drive editions of the Series X.

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Credit: Adamya Sharma / Android Authority

• You can now find official Microsoft parts for the Xbox Series X and S on iFixit.
• There are also step-by-step repair guides for both the digital and disk drive editions.

---

iFixit is best known for supplying replacement parts for phones, tablets, and computers. Game systems are also included in its long list of categories, and that section is about to get a little bigger with the inclusion of Microsoft’s latest consoles.

Today, iFixit is expanding its game console parts category with official parts for the Xbox Series X and S. Also on the iFixit website, you’ll see step-by-step repair guides for the Series X and S, as well as guides for both the digital and disk drive editions of the Series X.

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