Chrome may soon let you disable all extensions with one click

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google appears to be working on a couple of changes to the Extensions menu.
• Activating a flag in version 125.0.6398.0 introduces a toggle that turns all extensions off in one fell swoop.
• The flag also seems to add dynamic colors and remove the pin icon.

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Google appears to be working on a new feature for the Chrome browser that could be pretty handy. This feature would allow you to turn off all extensions at once.

According to Gamer Stones, Google appears to be making some changes to its browser’s Extension menu. After enabling a flag (chrome://flags/#extensions-menu-access-control) in version 125.0.6398.0, the outlet discovered a new toggle in the menu. This toggle allows the user to disable all active extensions with a single click. This option could be useful if you need to turn off multiple extensions for whatever reason.

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How to install Android 15 on your Pixel phone right now

We hope you’re ready for the next version of Android because Android 15 is here! Although it will be quite a while before the software becomes stable enough for daily use, that doesn’t mean you can’t give it a shot. Below, we have instructions on how to install the first beta of Android 15 on a supported Pixel device.

Should I install Android 15?

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AI-powered MacBooks and iMacs coming later this year with Apple’s new M4 chip

Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority

• Apple is reportedly overhauling its entire Mac lineup with a new generation of M4 chips that heavily emphasize AI.
• We can expect new iMacs, MacBooks, and Mac minis starting in late 2024, with the Mac Pro potentially capping off the refresh cycle in late 2025.
• The M4 chip family will include three different versions: Donan for entry-level devices, Brava for high-end models, and Hidra for the flagship Mac Pro.

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Apple is preparing a significant revamp of its Mac product line, including the iMac, MacBook, and Mac mini. The revamp is expected to place a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence.

According to a report by Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, Apple is already close to starting production of the M4 processor, which will power the next generation of Apple computers. While the M3-powered Macs released less than six months ago were plenty powerful, their sales performance was underwhelming. This could be a driving force behind the rushed update, with Apple betting on AI innovation to drive renewed interest in its Mac lineup.

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Getting paid to watch TikTok? It might actually be happening

Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority

• To stimulate growth in Europe, TikTok is launching a new rewards app.
• The new app will provide monetary incentives to watch videos, get friends to sign up, and perform other actions.
• It’s unknown if or when the rewards app will come to the US.

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While TikTok may be an extremely popular iOS and Android app in the US, it’s not quite as popular in Europe. In fact, the company’s growth in Europe has slowed down to the extent that it is willing to fork over money to convince more people to start watching its videos.

According to a report from The Information, TikTok is preparing to launch a new app in Spain, France, and other countries. It will be a rewards app that provides monetary incentives for watching videos, getting friends to sign up, and performing other actions. These users will reportedly be able to redeem gift cards or get digital tips they can give to their favorite creators.

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Magic Editor and other AI tools are going free for all Google Photos users

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

• It’s no longer required to have a Pixel or a Google One subscription to use Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, or other Google Photos AI tools.
• Android and iOS users will get ten Magic Editor saves per month, while Pixel users will get as many as they want.
• Availability will start opening up on May 15 and over the following weeks to all devices that meet Google’s minimum requirements.

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Google Photos offers various AI-powered editing tools, such as Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, and Magic Eraser. However, if you wanted to use these tools, it required you to have a Pixel or paid Google One subscription. Earlier this week, we saw evidence that Google could do away with this exclusivity, and now the company is making that change.

In a major shift, Google announced today that it is dropping the subscription requirement for a handful of its Photos app AI editing tools. Starting on May 15 and over the following weeks, any Google Photos user on Android, iOS, and Chrome OS will have access to the following tools:

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Apple Watch X display rumor hints at upgrade that could boost battery life

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• A rumor claims a new display is in the works for the Apple Watch X.
• Apple could use LTPO TFT technology to further reduce the screen’s power consumption.
• The company may be interested in using the technology in other products.

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From new sensors to band-locking mechanisms, there are plenty of rumors swirling around the Apple Watch X. The latest rumor suggests the wearable could be in store for a power-saving display upgrade.

According to a report from The Elec, Apple plans to use new screen technology for the Series 10’s OLED display. The company will reportedly use new low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) thin-film transistor (TFT) technology, which is said to further reduce power consumption.

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After iMessage setback, Beeper finds new life with WordPress owner

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• Beeper, known for its iMessage-to-Android efforts, announced its acquisition by Automattic, the company behind WordPress.
• With the acquisition, Beeper’s Android app is out of beta and available to anyone without a waitlist.

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Beeper earned notoriety for its audacious but unsuccessful attempt to bring iMessage to Android. However, this app is more than just that; it’s a convenient aggregator designed to be a single, streamlined inbox for all of your chatting apps.

While the iMessage setback seemed like the end of the road for Beeper, the company has seemingly turned over a new leaf with its acquisition by Automattic — the parent company of the popular WordPress platform.

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Don’t expect Tile to launch Find My Device network supported trackers

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• When Google announced the Find My Device network in 2023, it mentioned compatible trackers from Tile.
• It now appears Tile is not currently working on an item locator that’s compatible with Google’s network.
• A spokesperson for the company says it is focused on “integrating Tile’s technology into the Life360 map.”

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Yesterday, Google’s Find My Device network finally went live in the US and Canada, with a global rollout to be completed in the next few months. With the launch of the network, a variety of brands also announced their compatible trackers. However, a notable name was missing from the list — Tile. Although it was expected Tile would release an item locator that supports the network, it looks like that may not be the case.

Back when Google announced the Find My Device network in 2023, it mentioned Tile as one of the brands that would supply supported trackers. We contacted Tile after the Find My Device network launch to see if it was planning to announce a new compatible tracker.

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Google’s Magic Editor might soon be free for all, with a major catch (APK teardown)

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• Code hidden within the Google Photos app suggests the Magic Editor tools could soon become available to users without a Google One subscription.
• The change may include a “metered saves” system, which would allow a limited number of free edits per month.
• Magic Editor offers impressive capabilities like changing skies, seamlessly removing objects, and creative image manipulation.

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Google’s Magic Editor, the AI-powered suite of photo editing tools, could be taking a significant step towards broader availability. Launched initially as a Pixel phone exclusive, the Magic Editor feature found its way into the Google Photos app for Google One subscribers. Soon, though, it could be available to use without a Google One subscription.

In the latest Google Photos APK (v6.78.0.622306643), we’ve spotted code strings hinting at this potential change. Here are the specific strings that mention the feature:

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Fresh Pixel 8a leaks show off a matte-finish back and chunky bezels

• New images of the Pixel 8a have leaked, showcasing a rounded design and a matte finish on the back.
• The images also point to noticeable bottom bezels on the device.

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The Pixel 8a, a strong contender for a spot among 2024’s best mid-range smartphones, has leaked again ahead of its anticipated May launch.

TechDroider has shared seemingly real-life images of the Pixel 8a on X (formerly Twitter) — the source is unknown. The images reinforce previous leaks showcasing the Pixel 8a’s adoption of the rounded design language introduced with the Pixel 8 series. One standout change apparent in these new images is a matte finish on the back panel of the Pixel 8a, which could be a welcome departure from the glossy back panel of the Pixel 7a.

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Samsung turns it around, forecasts massive jump in profit for Q1 2024

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Samsung estimates it experienced a profit of $4.9 billion between January and March 2024.
• This comes after the company reported declining profits for four straight quarters.
• Sales have reportedly risen by more than 71%.

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Last year wasn’t exactly the strongest year for Samsung and its various products. In fact, around this time last year, the company saw about a 95% decline in year-over-year earnings. But it looks like the Android phone maker may have turned things around, according to profit estimates.

CNN reports that Samsung expects to see a big increase in its profits this quarter. The Korean firm reportedly estimates that its operating profit has increased to 6.6 trillion Korean won ($4.9 billion). For comparison, the phone maker reported a profit of 640 billion Korean won ($478.55 million) in Q1 2023.

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Samsung’s 2024 foldable could be sticking to 2022 cameras

Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority

• The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is reportedly using the same camera setup as the Z Fold 5.
• The Galaxy Z Fold 5 also featured a camera setup that was unchanged from the Z Fold 4.
• There have been rumors of two separate Z Fold devices coming this year.

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Samsung almost single-handedly pioneered the foldable smartphone market, but in recent years, the company has seemingly lost its innovative edge. First-generation foldables like the Google Pixel Fold and OnePlus Open have surpassed Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 in critical areas, including camera hardware.

Samsung’s dominance in the foldable smartphone market might be further tested this year, with fresh rumors suggesting that the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 could retain the same camera configuration as its predecessor.

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OnePlus Watch 2 could soon get a new Nord-inspired color

Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

• References to a new OnePlus Watch 2 Nordic Blue Edition have been found.
• This Nordic Blue Edition will likely exist alongside the current Black Steel and Radiant Steel colorways of the OnePlus Watch 2.

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The OnePlus Watch 2 is one of the better Wear OS smartwatches you can buy right now, with the potential to disrupt Samsung’s tight hold over the market with its Galaxy Watch 6 series. As we note in our OnePlus Watch 2 review, this watch offers a unique dual-architecture setup and excellent battery life as long as you can look past its large size. OnePlus continues to focus on the Watch 2, as it appears that the company is planning a new color for the watch.

OnePlus Watch 2 Nordic Blue Edition

Trusted OnePlus enthusiast 1NormalUsername spotted references to a new OnePlus Watch 2 SKU with the alias “blue.”

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Google is pushing Gemini into another app on your Android phone

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• The Google app for Android is all set to gain a Gemini toggle.
• The new feature will allow Android users to use Gemini without downloading its dedicated Android app that forcefully replaces the Google Assistant.

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Google launched a dedicated Assistant-replacing Gemini app on Android in February. However, it seems the search giant is not yet done “Gemini-fying” your Android phone. If you haven’t downloaded the Gemini app before, Google is planning to give the AI chatbot prime real estate inside the Google app.

According to tipster Assemble Debug‘s findings (via Piunikaweb), Android users will soon see a Gemini switch inside the Google app on their devices. This is similar to how Google offers Gemini on its iOS app. Toggling to Gemini within the Google app lets you start an interaction with the AI by typing, talking, or sharing an image. So essentially, you move away from the traditional Google Search and Discover interface to the Gemini interface.

The new option in the Google app for Android actually makes sense for users who want to try out Gemini but don’t want to lose Google Assistant functionality. Currently, if you download the Gemini app on your Android device, you have to opt-in to remove Google Assistant and use only Gemini as the primary AI guide on your phone. A toggle to use Gemini within the Google app will overcome this restriction.

There’s no word on when the feature will roll out to the Google app for Android, but thanks to the above video shared by the tipster, you can see how it would function.

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Want to photograph the eclipse with your phone? NASA has some tips for you

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• A total solar eclipse will pass over Canada, the US, and Mexico on April 8.
• NASA has released some tips on how to best take pictures of the event.

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If you haven’t heard by now, a total eclipse will be passing through North America on April 8. For those wanting to catch the event as it happens, NASA has provided a few tips on how to best capture the moment with your phone or camera.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional or amateur, anyone is capable of taking great photos of an eclipse. As NASA points out in its blog post, you don’t even need a fancy DLSR camera to get the results you’re looking for.

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How to download and install Google Chrome on any device

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According to Stat Counter, Google Chrome is the most popular internet browser, with a 63% global share. If you’re a part of the remaining 37% and want to give the Chrome browser a try, it’s easy to download and install Chrome on any device.

Read more: 20 Google Chrome tips and tricks for Android

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Google could bring radar-based fall detection to the Nest Hub

Credit: Jimmy Westenberg / Android Authority

• Google has filed a patent for fall detection via smart home devices using a radar system.
• The feature would notify an emergency contact or emergency services in the event of a fall.
• This suggests that the radar-equipped second-generation Nest Hub could gain fall detection support.

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Fall detection is one of the most important features on smartwatches and trackers today, allowing elderly people and other users to get help in the event that they’ve fallen and can’t get back up. Now, it looks like Google could be thinking about bringing this feature to its Nest Hub line.

The company filed a patent with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) titled ‘Privacy-preserving radar-based fall monitoring.” This patent describes the use of a stationary “smart home device” or “home assistant device” that uses radar waves to detect whether a nearby person has fallen.

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Don’t want to miss the eclipse? Google TV is giving users a way to watch for free!

Credit: David Imel / Android Authority

• Google TV is giving users a way to experience the eclipse happening on April 8.
• On April 7-8, Google TV will show local and national coverage of the eclipse in the For You tab.
• Each channel will appear with a custom eclipse-themed title card.

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Certain parts of North America are going to be treated to a rare occurrence soon. An eclipse will be visible in Mexico, the US, and Canada on April 8, with the path of totality hitting a number of cities along the way. If you don’t want to miss out on the event, Google TV is giving users a way to experience the total eclipse from the comfort of their homes.

Starting on April 7 and lasting through April 8, Google says it will highlight a collection of content on Google TV to celebrate the eclipse. During this time, Google TV will show a selection of free, ad-supported (FAST) local and national channels covering the moment.

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OnePlus 13 could debut a dramatic new design with a quad-curved display

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• OnePlus and OPPO are reportedly using micro quad-curved panels for their upcoming flagships.
• The OnePlus 13 could be the first OnePlus phone to debut with this new design element.

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The OnePlus 12 marked a welcome return to form for the brand, but the upcoming OnePlus 13 could be poised to deliver an even bigger shake-up.

In a recent exchange on X (formerly Twitter), reliable tipster Yogesh Brar suggested that OnePlus, alongside sister company OPPO, might be using a “micro quad-curved panel” for its upcoming flagships. This tweet was a response to a claim that OPPO’s next flagship, the Find X8 Ultra, will be using a Micro Quad-Curved display. Let’s break down what this information means.

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Disgraced iMessage-on-Android app can’t take the hint, is back for more

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• Sunbird, the iMessage for Android app, is making a comeback.
• Invitations are rolling out in “small phases” starting today.
• The company claims it has replaced its old architecture with new architecture focused on privacy.

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Remember the whole Nothing Chats debacle from last year? It was an app built on top of Sunbird’s architecture, which had so many security flaws Nothing Chats and Sunbird’s own messaging app were taken down from the Google Play Store. Well, Sunbird is back, hoping users will forget the past and will give it a second chance.

Through a press release, Sunbird announced it plans to relaunch its beta iMessage for Android app. The company says it is sending out invitations to those on its waitlist in small phases starting today.

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