Google’s auto-podcasting NotebookLM tool now lets you steer the discussion

Credit: Google

• Google is removing the “Experimental” label from NotebookLM.
• The note-taking and research tool is getting new features for Audio Overview.
• Users can now sign up to try NotebookLM Business.

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Google initially launched NotebookLM, the Gemini-powered research and note-taking app, back in July 2023. Although it was released as an “Experimental” feature, that’s not the case anymore. The company is ready to make the app official and introduce new features in the process.

Today, the Mountain View-based firm announced that it is removing the Experimental label from NotebookLM. Along with the change, it’s set to get a pair of new features that add to the Audio Overview experience.

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Credit: Google

• Google is removing the “Experimental” label from NotebookLM.
• The note-taking and research tool is getting new features for Audio Overview.
• Users can now sign up to try NotebookLM Business.

---

Google initially launched NotebookLM, the Gemini-powered research and note-taking app, back in July 2023. Although it was released as an “Experimental” feature, that’s not the case anymore. The company is ready to make the app official and introduce new features in the process.

Today, the Mountain View-based firm announced that it is removing the Experimental label from NotebookLM. Along with the change, it’s set to get a pair of new features that add to the Audio Overview experience.

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These cheap Samsung and Motorola phones are even cheaper right now!

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

The budget smartphone market is healthier than ever. It’s now pretty easy to find very affordable phones that still perform very well, and our list of the best budget smartphones is full of options. If you want to save even more, though, today, we found a few great deals on already-affordable handsets, taking the prices to whole different levels of affordability.

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is the most popular of the bunch, and it’s 25% off at just $299.99. If you like the idea of having a stylus, the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 is 38% off at $249.99. Those who want the absolute cheapest can get the Moto G Play 2024 at a mere $109.99, a 27% discount.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

The budget smartphone market is healthier than ever. It’s now pretty easy to find very affordable phones that still perform very well, and our list of the best budget smartphones is full of options. If you want to save even more, though, today, we found a few great deals on already-affordable handsets, taking the prices to whole different levels of affordability.

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is the most popular of the bunch, and it’s 25% off at just $299.99. If you like the idea of having a stylus, the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 is 38% off at $249.99. Those who want the absolute cheapest can get the Moto G Play 2024 at a mere $109.99, a 27% discount.

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Need a smartphone gimbal? The DJI Osmo Mobile SE is cheaper than ever!

Credit: DJI

The DJI Osmo Mobile SE is one of our favorite smartphone gimbals for a good reason. It provides modern features, a portable design, and great functionality at a very reasonable price. If you’ve been looking to get it, today is your lucky day. The DJI Osmo Mobile SE has hit a new record-low price of just $69, saving you 22% on the retail price.

Buy the DJI Osmo Mobile SE gimbal for only $69

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Credit: DJI

The DJI Osmo Mobile SE is one of our favorite smartphone gimbals for a good reason. It provides modern features, a portable design, and great functionality at a very reasonable price. If you’ve been looking to get it, today is your lucky day. The DJI Osmo Mobile SE has hit a new record-low price of just $69, saving you 22% on the retail price.

Buy the DJI Osmo Mobile SE gimbal for only $69

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Google confirms YouTube Premium Lite is back… sorta

• YouTube Premium Lite is back from the dead, after seemingly being canceled a year ago.
• Google’s currently running Premium Lite tests in Australia, Germany, and Thailand.
• It’s not clear yet what Google’s long-term plans are here.

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YouTube Premium has got to be one of the most contentious paid versions of a streaming service. There’s good reason for that, as it’s unlike most of the rest out there, offering free access to basically everything — if you sit through some ads. And that’s sometimes quite a few ads. Today we’re learning about one way that YouTube is looking to give viewers a way to eliminate those ads without requiring a full-blown Premium subscription, as Google confirms that it’s brought back Premium Lite for some new testing.

Premium Lite, you may remember, was basically a half-priced YouTube Premium plan that got rid of ads, but that was pretty much it — no background playback, no YouTube Music, no extra perks. But for what it was, that might hit the value sweet-spot for a lot of viewers. While it had been available for some nations in the past, we got word about a year ago that YouTube was shutting Lite down.

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• YouTube Premium Lite is back from the dead, after seemingly being canceled a year ago.
• Google’s currently running Premium Lite tests in Australia, Germany, and Thailand.
• It’s not clear yet what Google’s long-term plans are here.

---

YouTube Premium has got to be one of the most contentious paid versions of a streaming service. There’s good reason for that, as it’s unlike most of the rest out there, offering free access to basically everything — if you sit through some ads. And that’s sometimes quite a few ads. Today we’re learning about one way that YouTube is looking to give viewers a way to eliminate those ads without requiring a full-blown Premium subscription, as Google confirms that it’s brought back Premium Lite for some new testing.

Premium Lite, you may remember, was basically a half-priced YouTube Premium plan that got rid of ads, but that was pretty much it — no background playback, no YouTube Music, no extra perks. But for what it was, that might hit the value sweet-spot for a lot of viewers. While it had been available for some nations in the past, we got word about a year ago that YouTube was shutting Lite down.

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Enjoy videos at your own pace with YouTube’s new playback speed controls and sleep timer

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• YouTube has announced a bunch of new features and improvements for YouTube across all platforms.
• The company is rolling out a new miniplayer, improved landscape browsing, and a sleep timer on the mobile app.
• The platform is also getting fine-tunable playback controls, custom playlist thumbnail support, and a few interface improvements for the TV app.

---

YouTube rolled out support for custom playlist thumbnails last month, but the feature wasn’t exactly what users wanted. It only allowed users to create playlist thumbnails using AI instead of letting them upload custom images for their playlists, leaving many playlist curators disappointed. Fortunately, YouTube has listened to user feedback and is rolling out custom image uploads for playlist thumbnails along with a host of other highly requested features and improvements.

YouTube says the custom thumbnail feature now lets you upload images from your camera roll and personalize them with text, filters, or stickers. In addition, the platform is adding a feature that makes it easier to collaborate with friends and create new playlists using a shareable link or QR code. Later this year, YouTube will add a new voting system and corresponding filter to playlists, allowing users to vote on videos in playlists and make the best video in the playlist easier to discover.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• YouTube has announced a bunch of new features and improvements for YouTube across all platforms.
• The company is rolling out a new miniplayer, improved landscape browsing, and a sleep timer on the mobile app.
• The platform is also getting fine-tunable playback controls, custom playlist thumbnail support, and a few interface improvements for the TV app.

---

YouTube rolled out support for custom playlist thumbnails last month, but the feature wasn’t exactly what users wanted. It only allowed users to create playlist thumbnails using AI instead of letting them upload custom images for their playlists, leaving many playlist curators disappointed. Fortunately, YouTube has listened to user feedback and is rolling out custom image uploads for playlist thumbnails along with a host of other highly requested features and improvements.

YouTube says the custom thumbnail feature now lets you upload images from your camera roll and personalize them with text, filters, or stickers. In addition, the platform is adding a feature that makes it easier to collaborate with friends and create new playlists using a shareable link or QR code. Later this year, YouTube will add a new voting system and corresponding filter to playlists, allowing users to vote on videos in playlists and make the best video in the playlist easier to discover.

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Nothing Phone 2a Community Edition teaser hints at one feature you’d never expect

Credit: Nothing

• Nothing started a project asking its community to help it codesign a Phone 2a back in March.
• The company has now teased October 30 as the launch for the community edition Phone 2a.
• The Phone 2a features a glow-in-the-dark back panel.

---

The Phone 2a launched back in March, giving Nothing fans a new mid-tier device to jump on. Around the same time, the company started a community-focused project asking members to chip in on codesigning a Phone 2a Community Edition. We’re now close to seeing this Community Edition device launch.

On X (formerly Twitter), the UK-based brand teased that a big reveal would be coming our way on October 30, 2024. The teaser includes a video of a firefly landing on the ground and glowing green before walking off-screen. The teaser is for the Phone 2a Community Edition and the unusual green glow is referencing a unique feature on the device.

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Credit: Nothing

• Nothing started a project asking its community to help it codesign a Phone 2a back in March.
• The company has now teased October 30 as the launch for the community edition Phone 2a.
• The Phone 2a features a glow-in-the-dark back panel.

---

The Phone 2a launched back in March, giving Nothing fans a new mid-tier device to jump on. Around the same time, the company started a community-focused project asking members to chip in on codesigning a Phone 2a Community Edition. We’re now close to seeing this Community Edition device launch.

On X (formerly Twitter), the UK-based brand teased that a big reveal would be coming our way on October 30, 2024. The teaser includes a video of a firefly landing on the ground and glowing green before walking off-screen. The teaser is for the Phone 2a Community Edition and the unusual green glow is referencing a unique feature on the device.

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Has iOS finally caught up with Android in terms of customization?

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

When the iPhone 15 released last year, I took the plunge and switched from Android after a decade of loyalty, hoping that Apple’s long-awaited adoption of USB-C would ease the transition. Unfortunately, I quickly found that I missed Android’s extensive customization and certain features like notification channels. But with each iOS update, Apple seems to be listening to its users and addressing common pain points from migrating Android users.

In that vein, the latest iOS 18 update this year brings many customization options and usability improvements that could finally offer the flexibility I’ve always loved about Android. But is it enough to convince long-time Android users like me to stick with iOS this time around? I think so, and here’s why.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

When the iPhone 15 released last year, I took the plunge and switched from Android after a decade of loyalty, hoping that Apple’s long-awaited adoption of USB-C would ease the transition. Unfortunately, I quickly found that I missed Android’s extensive customization and certain features like notification channels. But with each iOS update, Apple seems to be listening to its users and addressing common pain points from migrating Android users.

In that vein, the latest iOS 18 update this year brings many customization options and usability improvements that could finally offer the flexibility I’ve always loved about Android. But is it enough to convince long-time Android users like me to stick with iOS this time around? I think so, and here’s why.

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Destiny fans can sign up right now to try the mobile spinoff

Credit: NetEase

• NetEase Games has announced a new mobile game set in the Destiny universe.
• The game is a free-to-play sci-fi RPG shooter that explores an alternate Destiny timeline in the post-Dark Age era.
• You can sign up right now for the limited access closed alpha test scheduled for November 1, 2024.

---

It’s hard to believe, but it has been a decade since Destiny first launched. Although the future of the franchise is up in the air due to recent Bungie layoffs and upheaval, players will be getting a new game set in the Destiny universe. That new game will not be Destiny 3, but rather a mobile game created by NetEase.

Today, NetEase Games announced it is developing and publishing a game called Destiny: Rising, with official licensing from Destiny creator Bungie. The game is described as a free-to-play sci-fi RPG shooter that takes place in an alternate Destiny timeline during the post-Dark Age era.

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Credit: NetEase

• NetEase Games has announced a new mobile game set in the Destiny universe.
• The game is a free-to-play sci-fi RPG shooter that explores an alternate Destiny timeline in the post-Dark Age era.
• You can sign up right now for the limited access closed alpha test scheduled for November 1, 2024.

---

It’s hard to believe, but it has been a decade since Destiny first launched. Although the future of the franchise is up in the air due to recent Bungie layoffs and upheaval, players will be getting a new game set in the Destiny universe. That new game will not be Destiny 3, but rather a mobile game created by NetEase.

Today, NetEase Games announced it is developing and publishing a game called Destiny: Rising, with official licensing from Destiny creator Bungie. The game is described as a free-to-play sci-fi RPG shooter that takes place in an alternate Destiny timeline during the post-Dark Age era.

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Deal: 1minAI takes care of all your AI needs at just $40 for life!

Credit: 1minAI

Artificial intelligence is really changing the way we all work, but the market seems to be a bit fragmented. AI tools seem to be specialized, which is forcing us to use multiple services for different purposes. Not only is this inconvenient, but it can get expensive, as many of these services are paid. 1minAI puts all the best AI tools together into a single service, and right now, you can get a lifetime subscription for a mere $39.99! Yes, that is a one-time payment for life.

Get a lifetime subscription to 1minAI for a mere $39.99

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Credit: 1minAI

Artificial intelligence is really changing the way we all work, but the market seems to be a bit fragmented. AI tools seem to be specialized, which is forcing us to use multiple services for different purposes. Not only is this inconvenient, but it can get expensive, as many of these services are paid. 1minAI puts all the best AI tools together into a single service, and right now, you can get a lifetime subscription for a mere $39.99! Yes, that is a one-time payment for life.

Get a lifetime subscription to 1minAI for a mere $39.99

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Get a free $100 gift card when you purchase a Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

Credit: Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is amazing, offering some of the best phones of 2024, but we know not everyone wants to spend top dollar on a high-end flagship. There’s also the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, though, which takes the best out of the premium experience, makes some sacrifices, and brings the price down to a more reasonable $649.99. And if you act quickly, you can also score a free $100 gift card!

Get a free $100 gift card when you buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE for $649.99

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Credit: Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is amazing, offering some of the best phones of 2024, but we know not everyone wants to spend top dollar on a high-end flagship. There’s also the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, though, which takes the best out of the premium experience, makes some sacrifices, and brings the price down to a more reasonable $649.99. And if you act quickly, you can also score a free $100 gift card!

Get a free $100 gift card when you buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE for $649.99

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Google Play Store could soon make it easy to install apps with long listings (APK teardown)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google Play Store could soon sport a header that is fixed in place on app listings.
• This header will include key app details, such as the icon, name, developer’s name, average rating, and more. It would also include the Install button.
• This change would make it easier to install the app from any position of the app listing.

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Most Android flagships ship with the Google Play Store out of the box, so it is natural for the platform to evolve into the premier destination for exploring apps and games on these devices. Google does a lot of work to protect users on the Play Store while balancing the interests of app developers who choose to list their apps on the platform. App developers are advised to create detailed and rich app listings to give the user as much information as possible before a download. However, the trade-off is that the app listing becomes too long, and the Install button is no longer in sight. An upcoming Google Play Store change could fix this by making the Install button a permanent part of the app listing.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google Play Store could soon sport a header that is fixed in place on app listings.
• This header will include key app details, such as the icon, name, developer’s name, average rating, and more. It would also include the Install button.
• This change would make it easier to install the app from any position of the app listing.

---

Most Android flagships ship with the Google Play Store out of the box, so it is natural for the platform to evolve into the premier destination for exploring apps and games on these devices. Google does a lot of work to protect users on the Play Store while balancing the interests of app developers who choose to list their apps on the platform. App developers are advised to create detailed and rich app listings to give the user as much information as possible before a download. However, the trade-off is that the app listing becomes too long, and the Install button is no longer in sight. An upcoming Google Play Store change could fix this by making the Install button a permanent part of the app listing.

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Here are all the Gemini Nano features, and the phones that support them

Samsung Chat Assist

Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

For a few years, Google has positioned its Pixel smartphones as the go-to choice for AI features. But the recent boom in AI tools like ChatGPT has led other smartphone brands to follow suit too. The recent release of Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16 series stands to further threaten Google’s ambitions of leading the AI space. The search giant still has a numbers advantage, though, with the entire Android ecosystem at its disposal. So unsurprisingly, we’re now starting to see Google’s Gemini Nano AI model on more and more devices, including Samsung and Xiaomi phones.

So what does Gemini Nano achieve on Android and should your next smartphone support it? Here’s everything you need to know.

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Samsung Chat Assist

Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

For a few years, Google has positioned its Pixel smartphones as the go-to choice for AI features. But the recent boom in AI tools like ChatGPT has led other smartphone brands to follow suit too. The recent release of Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16 series stands to further threaten Google’s ambitions of leading the AI space. The search giant still has a numbers advantage, though, with the entire Android ecosystem at its disposal. So unsurprisingly, we’re now starting to see Google’s Gemini Nano AI model on more and more devices, including Samsung and Xiaomi phones.

So what does Gemini Nano achieve on Android and should your next smartphone support it? Here’s everything you need to know.

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Apple wants to launch smart glasses to salvage the billions it spent on Vision Pro

Credit: Meta

• Apple is considering launching a Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses rival in 2027.
• It’s also reported that it wants to launch camera-equipped AirPods.
• The company is aiming to create more products that can use the Vision Pro’s ability to understand its surroundings.

---

Developing the Vision Pro was an expensive endeavor for Apple, which is why the device has such a high price tag. Although the product sold better than initially expected, the iPhone maker has had an uphill battle with trying to recoup the cost of development. In an attempt to salvage the money spent on creating the headset, the Cupertino firm wants to make more products that use the Vision Pro’s technology.

According to Bloomberg, Apple’s Vision Products Group is working on “at least” four new products. One of the new products is said to be smart glasses. Another product could be AirPods built with a camera within. Both are expected to arrive in 2027.

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Credit: Meta

• Apple is considering launching a Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses rival in 2027.
• It’s also reported that it wants to launch camera-equipped AirPods.
• The company is aiming to create more products that can use the Vision Pro’s ability to understand its surroundings.

---

Developing the Vision Pro was an expensive endeavor for Apple, which is why the device has such a high price tag. Although the product sold better than initially expected, the iPhone maker has had an uphill battle with trying to recoup the cost of development. In an attempt to salvage the money spent on creating the headset, the Cupertino firm wants to make more products that use the Vision Pro’s technology.

According to Bloomberg, Apple’s Vision Products Group is working on “at least” four new products. One of the new products is said to be smart glasses. Another product could be AirPods built with a camera within. Both are expected to arrive in 2027.

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Nintendo Switch 2 rumors: Everything we know so far and what we want to see

Update, October 13, 2024 (10:43 AM ET): We’ve updated this Nintendo Switch 2 rumor hub with information on a data breach that revealed the Switch 2’s codename and potential games.

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Original article: Even if you love it and still use it daily, there’s no denying that the Nintendo Switch is getting old. Launched in 2017, the hybrid console celebrated its seventh birthday in March, which means it’s getting close to retirement. With this in mind, one can’t help but wonder: where is the sequel, presumably called the Nintendo Switch 2?

Thankfully, Nintendo has confirmed that a successor is coming soon. There have also been some rumors and leaks surrounding the sequel to Nintendo’s best-selling home console. We’ve rounded up the most trustworthy of them here. Towards the end of the article, we also have a few wishlist items — things we hope to see but don’t have any evidence for quite yet.

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Update, October 13, 2024 (10:43 AM ET): We’ve updated this Nintendo Switch 2 rumor hub with information on a data breach that revealed the Switch 2’s codename and potential games.

---

Original article: Even if you love it and still use it daily, there’s no denying that the Nintendo Switch is getting old. Launched in 2017, the hybrid console celebrated its seventh birthday in March, which means it’s getting close to retirement. With this in mind, one can’t help but wonder: where is the sequel, presumably called the Nintendo Switch 2?

Thankfully, Nintendo has confirmed that a successor is coming soon. There have also been some rumors and leaks surrounding the sequel to Nintendo’s best-selling home console. We’ve rounded up the most trustworthy of them here. Towards the end of the article, we also have a few wishlist items — things we hope to see but don’t have any evidence for quite yet.

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I tried switching to Gmail for Android and noped out immediately

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

The Gmail app comes pre-installed on the best Android phones you can buy. Gmail is also used by over 1.8 billion people — roughly 20% of the world’s population. Given the number of people who use the service, its pre-installation state on Android, all the fancy AI features in Gmail, and the fact that Google owns both it and Android, one would assume that Gmail on Android would be the best email experience you can get, right? However, I would argue it’s just OK. Well, at least that’s what I thought for a long time, anyway.

In the past, I had found the Gmail app’s features anemic when compared to the other best email apps for Android. I used Blue Mail for a really long time and recently switched to Outlook, which is actually pretty terrific. In September, though, I got a shiny new Google Pixel 9 Pro, which meant I needed to set up my phone all over again. While I was doing that, I said to myself, “Hey, I haven’t used the Gmail app in a while. I wonder if it’s gotten better than I remember it?”

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

The Gmail app comes pre-installed on the best Android phones you can buy. Gmail is also used by over 1.8 billion people — roughly 20% of the world’s population. Given the number of people who use the service, its pre-installation state on Android, all the fancy AI features in Gmail, and the fact that Google owns both it and Android, one would assume that Gmail on Android would be the best email experience you can get, right? However, I would argue it’s just OK. Well, at least that’s what I thought for a long time, anyway.

In the past, I had found the Gmail app’s features anemic when compared to the other best email apps for Android. I used Blue Mail for a really long time and recently switched to Outlook, which is actually pretty terrific. In September, though, I got a shiny new Google Pixel 9 Pro, which meant I needed to set up my phone all over again. While I was doing that, I said to myself, “Hey, I haven’t used the Gmail app in a while. I wonder if it’s gotten better than I remember it?”

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Skip the other AI features; I just want a helpful Gemini side panel in Chrome

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Opinion post by

Adamya Sharma

It appears that within the vast Google ecosystem, AI is now omnipresent, providing answers at every turn. Whether on smartphones, tablets, or various applications, Google is actively infusing Gemini‘s intelligence into its offerings. However, one notable exception stands out: Google Chrome seems to be overlooked when it comes to a Gemini integration that makes sense.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Opinion post by

Adamya Sharma

It appears that within the vast Google ecosystem, AI is now omnipresent, providing answers at every turn. Whether on smartphones, tablets, or various applications, Google is actively infusing Gemini‘s intelligence into its offerings. However, one notable exception stands out: Google Chrome seems to be overlooked when it comes to a Gemini integration that makes sense.

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I accidentally found a Duolingo cheat, and now I wish I hadn’t

I’m a bit addicted to Duolingo in the quest to improve my Spanish. I know it isn’t the best tutor, but I’m too lazy to take traditional classes. Plus, I can dip into the educational app a couple of times per day and feel as if I’m improving. I happily embrace my mild addiction — how bad can an addiction to learning be? Except it’s not learning Spanish that I’m actually addicted to, which is why stumbling upon this Duolingo cheat has slightly ruined the app for me.

Some of you might be interested in why I’m disappointed, but more of you probably want to know about the Duolingo cheat. I’m happy to share it.

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I’m a bit addicted to Duolingo in the quest to improve my Spanish. I know it isn’t the best tutor, but I’m too lazy to take traditional classes. Plus, I can dip into the educational app a couple of times per day and feel as if I’m improving. I happily embrace my mild addiction — how bad can an addiction to learning be? Except it’s not learning Spanish that I’m actually addicted to, which is why stumbling upon this Duolingo cheat has slightly ruined the app for me.

Some of you might be interested in why I’m disappointed, but more of you probably want to know about the Duolingo cheat. I’m happy to share it.

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Samsung Galaxy S25 FE could debut a very welcome design change

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• A new report suggests that Samsung is considering a slimmer design for the Galaxy S25 FE.
• The device could feature a 6.7-inch display and may pack a thinner battery.
• Rumor has it that the company could offer it with a MediaTek Dimensity chipset.

---

Samsung seems to be betting big on slimmer designs to reignite interest in its devices. We’ve already seen multiple reports suggesting that the company is working on a thinner Galaxy Z Fold 6 and its next Galaxy S series flagship is also rumored to be the slimmest and lightest Ultra model to date. Now, a new report suggests that the company could take a similar design approach for the Galaxy S25 FE.

Although it has only been a few days since the Galaxy S24 FE hit the market, Samsung appears to have started work on its successor. According to The Elec (via Neowin), the company plans to launch an FE version of its upcoming flagship Galaxy S25 series next year and it’s currently considering a new, slimmer design for the device.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• A new report suggests that Samsung is considering a slimmer design for the Galaxy S25 FE.
• The device could feature a 6.7-inch display and may pack a thinner battery.
• Rumor has it that the company could offer it with a MediaTek Dimensity chipset.

---

Samsung seems to be betting big on slimmer designs to reignite interest in its devices. We’ve already seen multiple reports suggesting that the company is working on a thinner Galaxy Z Fold 6 and its next Galaxy S series flagship is also rumored to be the slimmest and lightest Ultra model to date. Now, a new report suggests that the company could take a similar design approach for the Galaxy S25 FE.

Although it has only been a few days since the Galaxy S24 FE hit the market, Samsung appears to have started work on its successor. According to The Elec (via Neowin), the company plans to launch an FE version of its upcoming flagship Galaxy S25 series next year and it’s currently considering a new, slimmer design for the device.

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Motorola Edge (2025) wishlist: All the features I want to see

Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority

While the Motorola Edge Plus series has received a lot of praise from Android Authority and other tech reviewers, the mid-range Edge has often had a more mixed reception. We gave it positive marks in 2023, but we had more complaints about the follow-up Motorola Edge (2024). Even if I find it hard to get excited about that one, maybe Motorola’s next swing will strike a little closer to the mark. With that in mind, here’s what I’m hoping to see from the Motorola Edge (2025).

Better performance is needed from a mid-ranger in 2024 and beyond

The Motorola Edge (2024) saw some positive changes, but others sounded better on paper than in reality. While the Edge moved away from MediaTek chips, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 that powers the 2024 model was never a flawless performer. This decision was even more disappointing when you consider that this chip was at the very end of its shelf life, with new Gen 3 models right around the corner.

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Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority

While the Motorola Edge Plus series has received a lot of praise from Android Authority and other tech reviewers, the mid-range Edge has often had a more mixed reception. We gave it positive marks in 2023, but we had more complaints about the follow-up Motorola Edge (2024). Even if I find it hard to get excited about that one, maybe Motorola’s next swing will strike a little closer to the mark. With that in mind, here’s what I’m hoping to see from the Motorola Edge (2025).

Better performance is needed from a mid-ranger in 2024 and beyond

The Motorola Edge (2024) saw some positive changes, but others sounded better on paper than in reality. While the Edge moved away from MediaTek chips, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 that powers the 2024 model was never a flawless performer. This decision was even more disappointing when you consider that this chip was at the very end of its shelf life, with new Gen 3 models right around the corner.

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Google Contacts could make adding contacts to other accounts a hassle (APK teardown)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google appears to be making a change to the Contacts app.
• When saving a contact, you’ll no longer have the ability to choose which Google account or device it is saved to.
• You can still use “move to another account” to move a contact to a different account.

---

When you want to add a new contact in the Google Contacts app, there’s a nice convenient feature that lets you choose where to store that contact. Unfortunately, it looks like the Android app could take away that feature in the future.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google appears to be making a change to the Contacts app.
• When saving a contact, you’ll no longer have the ability to choose which Google account or device it is saved to.
• You can still use “move to another account” to move a contact to a different account.

---

When you want to add a new contact in the Google Contacts app, there’s a nice convenient feature that lets you choose where to store that contact. Unfortunately, it looks like the Android app could take away that feature in the future.

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Google’s iOS to Android switching app is getting a fresh look (APK Teardown)

Credit: AssembleDebug / Android Authority

• Google is revamping its iOS app that helps users transition from iOS to Android.
• We previously reported that the app would be renamed from “Switch to Android” to “Android Switch.”
• The app is also getting a brand-new logo as part of this refresh.

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Jumping between iOS and Android platforms has become increasingly user-friendly, with both Apple and Google offering apps designed to simplify the transition. Google has been actively improving its “Switch to Android” app, which helps users switch from iOS to Android. Last month, we reported that the app would be renamed, and now it appears a new logo is also in the works.

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Credit: AssembleDebug / Android Authority

• Google is revamping its iOS app that helps users transition from iOS to Android.
• We previously reported that the app would be renamed from “Switch to Android” to “Android Switch.”
• The app is also getting a brand-new logo as part of this refresh.

---

Jumping between iOS and Android platforms has become increasingly user-friendly, with both Apple and Google offering apps designed to simplify the transition. Google has been actively improving its “Switch to Android” app, which helps users switch from iOS to Android. Last month, we reported that the app would be renamed, and now it appears a new logo is also in the works.

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The Google Pixel Fold and OnePlus Open are even cheaper than yesterday!

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

The Amazon Prime Big Deal Days event is still going full steam, but today is its last day. We thought we had already seen the hottest deals yesterday, but a couple of deals got even better today. The Google Pixel Fold and OnePlus Open were both almost $1,200 yesterday, but today the prices have gone down even lower, down to nearly $1,140.

Buy the Google Pixel Fold for just $1,139.05

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

The Amazon Prime Big Deal Days event is still going full steam, but today is its last day. We thought we had already seen the hottest deals yesterday, but a couple of deals got even better today. The Google Pixel Fold and OnePlus Open were both almost $1,200 yesterday, but today the prices have gone down even lower, down to nearly $1,140.

Buy the Google Pixel Fold for just $1,139.05

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Chromebooks may soon lose a feature that allows you to use Windows apps

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google could be preparing to end Parallels on Chromebook.
• Users will reportedly be alerted with an official announcement before the end of 2024.
• This means that Cameyo may be the only option for running legacy apps going forward.

---

Back in 2020, Google announced Chromebooks would be able to run Android and Windows apps side by side through a partnership with Parallels. Fast forward to today, it appears the tech giant may be ready to call it quits on the Parallels Desktop experiment.

If you’re not familiar with Parallels Desktop, it’s tech that virtualizes machines within an existing operating system. This system is what macOS users rely on to use Windows apps on Apple’s platform.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google could be preparing to end Parallels on Chromebook.
• Users will reportedly be alerted with an official announcement before the end of 2024.
• This means that Cameyo may be the only option for running legacy apps going forward.

---

Back in 2020, Google announced Chromebooks would be able to run Android and Windows apps side by side through a partnership with Parallels. Fast forward to today, it appears the tech giant may be ready to call it quits on the Parallels Desktop experiment.

If you’re not familiar with Parallels Desktop, it’s tech that virtualizes machines within an existing operating system. This system is what macOS users rely on to use Windows apps on Apple’s platform.

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Microsoft joins Google in push for password-less future with updated passkeys support

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Microsoft is adding support for third-party passkey providers, with passkeys synced across Windows 11 devices.
• Windows Hello is also getting a redesign to simplify the process of creating and using passkeys.
• This move by Microsoft follows a similar push by Google to expand passkey support.

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In a move that further solidifies the tech industry’s commitment to a passwordless future, Microsoft has announced expanded support for passkeys across its Windows 11 operating system. This announcement follows a similar move by Google last month, signaling a growing momentum behind the adoption of this more secure authentication technology.

One of the key features announced is a new plug-in model that allows third-party passkey providers to integrate directly with Windows 11. This means that users can take advantage of services from popular providers like 1Password and Bitwarden, allowing them to use the same passkeys across multiple devices, including mobile phones and PCs.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Microsoft is adding support for third-party passkey providers, with passkeys synced across Windows 11 devices.
• Windows Hello is also getting a redesign to simplify the process of creating and using passkeys.
• This move by Microsoft follows a similar push by Google to expand passkey support.

---

In a move that further solidifies the tech industry’s commitment to a passwordless future, Microsoft has announced expanded support for passkeys across its Windows 11 operating system. This announcement follows a similar move by Google last month, signaling a growing momentum behind the adoption of this more secure authentication technology.

One of the key features announced is a new plug-in model that allows third-party passkey providers to integrate directly with Windows 11. This means that users can take advantage of services from popular providers like 1Password and Bitwarden, allowing them to use the same passkeys across multiple devices, including mobile phones and PCs.

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Fitbit app will now use Gemini to help you with your health and fitness data

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• Fitbit has introduced a new feature called Fitbit Labs, allowing select users to test experimental health tools powered by Google’s Gemini AI.
• The first feature, Insights Explorer, offers personalized insights by analyzing fitness data and answering user questions.
• Fitbit Labs features are available for a limited time and may require a Fitbit Premium subscription.

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Fitbit, the wearable technology brand now under Google’s umbrella, has announced a new initiative called “Fitbit Labs.” This program will allow select users to test experimental features within the Fitbit app and provide feedback on their experience. The move comes after a year of significant changes for Fitbit, including the closure of its independent website and the discontinuation of its smartwatch lines.

Announced today, Fitbit Labs is available to select users who can opt in to test these new features and provide feedback. Users who qualify will find the option within the app’s ‘You’ tab, where they can either join immediately or sign up for a waitlist if the lab is not yet available.

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Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• Fitbit has introduced a new feature called Fitbit Labs, allowing select users to test experimental health tools powered by Google’s Gemini AI.
• The first feature, Insights Explorer, offers personalized insights by analyzing fitness data and answering user questions.
• Fitbit Labs features are available for a limited time and may require a Fitbit Premium subscription.

---

Fitbit, the wearable technology brand now under Google’s umbrella, has announced a new initiative called “Fitbit Labs.” This program will allow select users to test experimental features within the Fitbit app and provide feedback on their experience. The move comes after a year of significant changes for Fitbit, including the closure of its independent website and the discontinuation of its smartwatch lines.

Announced today, Fitbit Labs is available to select users who can opt in to test these new features and provide feedback. Users who qualify will find the option within the app’s ‘You’ tab, where they can either join immediately or sign up for a waitlist if the lab is not yet available.

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Google Chat adds voice message transcription for web and mobile users

Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority

• Google Chat is rolling out a new feature that automatically transcribes voice messages.
• Users can view or hide transcriptions, with screen readers also supporting the feature.
• The rollout begins today for all Google Workspace and Workspace Individual users across Android, iOS, and web platforms.

---

Google is further enhancing Google Chat, its messaging platform aimed at businesses and organizations, with a new voice message transcription feature. This update follows the introduction of voice messages earlier this year, continuing the evolution of the app, which succeeded the now-defunct Google Hangouts.

This new feature, announced today, automatically transcribes voice messages into text, bringing it in line with transcription capabilities found in other Google products like Google Meet.

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Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority

• Google Chat is rolling out a new feature that automatically transcribes voice messages.
• Users can view or hide transcriptions, with screen readers also supporting the feature.
• The rollout begins today for all Google Workspace and Workspace Individual users across Android, iOS, and web platforms.

---

Google is further enhancing Google Chat, its messaging platform aimed at businesses and organizations, with a new voice message transcription feature. This update follows the introduction of voice messages earlier this year, continuing the evolution of the app, which succeeded the now-defunct Google Hangouts.

This new feature, announced today, automatically transcribes voice messages into text, bringing it in line with transcription capabilities found in other Google products like Google Meet.

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Poll results: Your least-favorite gimmicky phone hardware features

How do you know when an idea’s a good one? If you had the resources, you could probably design a great smartphone unlike any that’s been seen before, but would it be a success? Manufacturers roll the dice just like that all the time, and while they’ve got plenty of market research and user groups to help steer their decisions, not every effort’s going to land.

A couple weeks back, we took a little stroll down that branch off memory lane where some of the silliest phones ever live, from the who-asked-for-this LG Wing to the wildly ambitious (and utterly unnecessary) Red Hydrogen One. While we’ll always fondly remember the latter for its inexplicable Fast & Furious 9 product placement, most of these phones are well on their way to being distant memories, fated to fade.

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How do you know when an idea’s a good one? If you had the resources, you could probably design a great smartphone unlike any that’s been seen before, but would it be a success? Manufacturers roll the dice just like that all the time, and while they’ve got plenty of market research and user groups to help steer their decisions, not every effort’s going to land.

A couple weeks back, we took a little stroll down that branch off memory lane where some of the silliest phones ever live, from the who-asked-for-this LG Wing to the wildly ambitious (and utterly unnecessary) Red Hydrogen One. While we’ll always fondly remember the latter for its inexplicable Fast & Furious 9 product placement, most of these phones are well on their way to being distant memories, fated to fade.

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Xiaomi 15 rumors: Everything we know so far and what we want to see

Credit: Paul Jones / Android Authority

The Xiaomi 14 is steadily approaching its one-year anniversary, which means its next iteration should be on the way. The Xiaomi 14 isn’t a bad phone by any means, but there’s always room for improvement. What will the company do to make the Xiaomi 15 a worthy successor to the 2023 model? When could the handset launch? Will the phone cost more or less this time around? If you’re looking for the answers to these questions and more, keep reading as we break down the latest rumors and leaks for the Xiaomi 15.

Xiaomi 15: At a glance

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Credit: Paul Jones / Android Authority

The Xiaomi 14 is steadily approaching its one-year anniversary, which means its next iteration should be on the way. The Xiaomi 14 isn’t a bad phone by any means, but there’s always room for improvement. What will the company do to make the Xiaomi 15 a worthy successor to the 2023 model? When could the handset launch? Will the phone cost more or less this time around? If you’re looking for the answers to these questions and more, keep reading as we break down the latest rumors and leaks for the Xiaomi 15.

Xiaomi 15: At a glance

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Unboxing video gives us our first look at the unreleased M4 MacBook Pro

• The M4 MacBook Pro has leaked in an unboxing video.
• The new machine is expected to double the RAM on the base model and feature an extra Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port.
• The key performance metrics of the M4 chip have also leaked.

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Apple is gearing up to launch the new M4 MacBook Pro later this month, with a release date reportedly set for November 1. Now, an unboxing video from Russian YouTuber Wylsacom (via Mark Gurman) offers us our first look at the alleged 14-inch MacBook Pro equipped with the M4 chip. This video not only showcases the unboxing but also provides details on key specs, including benchmark results that hint at the chip’s performance capabilities. This is probably the first time an unreleased Apple product ready for retail has leaked to this extent.

The Russian YouTuber’s unboxing video, shared earlier today, aligns closely with a packaging leak that surfaced last month. The design on the M4 MacBook Pro’s box features a wallpaper identical to that of the M3 MacBook Pro models. Prior to the leak, it was reported that M4 MacBook Pro units were available for purchase in a private Facebook group.

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• The M4 MacBook Pro has leaked in an unboxing video.
• The new machine is expected to double the RAM on the base model and feature an extra Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port.
• The key performance metrics of the M4 chip have also leaked.

---

Apple is gearing up to launch the new M4 MacBook Pro later this month, with a release date reportedly set for November 1. Now, an unboxing video from Russian YouTuber Wylsacom (via Mark Gurman) offers us our first look at the alleged 14-inch MacBook Pro equipped with the M4 chip. This video not only showcases the unboxing but also provides details on key specs, including benchmark results that hint at the chip’s performance capabilities. This is probably the first time an unreleased Apple product ready for retail has leaked to this extent.

The Russian YouTuber’s unboxing video, shared earlier today, aligns closely with a packaging leak that surfaced last month. The design on the M4 MacBook Pro’s box features a wallpaper identical to that of the M3 MacBook Pro models. Prior to the leak, it was reported that M4 MacBook Pro units were available for purchase in a private Facebook group.

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Google Play Store could soon highlight apps built for tablets and cars (APK teardown)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• The Google Play Store could soon start highlighting apps optimized for large-screen devices like tablets and compatible with cars.
• These are likely the result of the Google Car-ready mobile apps program announced at Google I/O 2024 that aimed to bring tablet apps to car infotainment screens for use when the car is parked.

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Center consoles in cars came with mechanical buttons and knobs in the analog era, but these days, most cars practically have a giant tablet housed there. This tablet-like center console is used to control car functions, but through Android Auto or Android Automotive, it can also run apps for navigation and music streaming that are optimized for distraction-less control. Since this center console is pretty much a tablet, it should also be able to run other standard apps when the car is parked. Google had the same idea, and it will soon start highlighting apps designed for tablets and compatible with your car in the Google Play Store.

An APK teardown helps predict features that may arrive on a service in the future based on work-in-progress code. However, it is possible that such predicted features may not make it to a public release.[/alert]

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• The Google Play Store could soon start highlighting apps optimized for large-screen devices like tablets and compatible with cars.
• These are likely the result of the Google Car-ready mobile apps program announced at Google I/O 2024 that aimed to bring tablet apps to car infotainment screens for use when the car is parked.

---

Center consoles in cars came with mechanical buttons and knobs in the analog era, but these days, most cars practically have a giant tablet housed there. This tablet-like center console is used to control car functions, but through Android Auto or Android Automotive, it can also run apps for navigation and music streaming that are optimized for distraction-less control. Since this center console is pretty much a tablet, it should also be able to run other standard apps when the car is parked. Google had the same idea, and it will soon start highlighting apps designed for tablets and compatible with your car in the Google Play Store.

An APK teardown helps predict features that may arrive on a service in the future based on work-in-progress code. However, it is possible that such predicted features may not make it to a public release.[/alert]

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I tested 5 AI image generators and this is the one I recommend

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

AI-generated images are more impressive than ever, with some even winning photography awards and fooling experts in the process. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional artist or have any technical skills to create them. But not all AI image generators are created equal — some excel at realism, while others are riddled with easy-to-spot errors. One thing is for sure: very few can generate text reliably. To find the best one then, I pushed each AI image generator with successively challenging prompts. Here are my findings.

Which is the best AI image generator?

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

AI-generated images are more impressive than ever, with some even winning photography awards and fooling experts in the process. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional artist or have any technical skills to create them. But not all AI image generators are created equal — some excel at realism, while others are riddled with easy-to-spot errors. One thing is for sure: very few can generate text reliably. To find the best one then, I pushed each AI image generator with successively challenging prompts. Here are my findings.

Which is the best AI image generator?

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All Bluetooth versions explained: How the technology evolved over the years

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Within a span of just a couple of decades, Bluetooth has evolved from a niche wireless protocol to a ubiquitous technology that we rely on daily for connecting everything from headphones to smart home devices. It’s now the go-to standard for short-range wireless communication, with perhaps only Wi-Fi surpassing its usefulness and popularity.

But while Bluetooth may seem like a rather stable and unexciting technology on the surface, the protocol has actually undergone several critical changes over the years. In fact, the benefits of some older Bluetooth versions still haven’t made their way into our devices yet.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Within a span of just a couple of decades, Bluetooth has evolved from a niche wireless protocol to a ubiquitous technology that we rely on daily for connecting everything from headphones to smart home devices. It’s now the go-to standard for short-range wireless communication, with perhaps only Wi-Fi surpassing its usefulness and popularity.

But while Bluetooth may seem like a rather stable and unexciting technology on the surface, the protocol has actually undergone several critical changes over the years. In fact, the benefits of some older Bluetooth versions still haven’t made their way into our devices yet.

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Morning Brief on the Pixel Watch 3 is way too brief and not too morning-y

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

To be clear, I am not a morning person by nature, but years of obligational early starts have trained me to handle waking up fairly well. I may have insane bed hair, and I will definitely not be able to see my own hands until I locate my glasses, but I do functionally adhere to the proverbial “up and at ’em.” In other words, I like to get my day started at a clip because if I’m getting up, then it might as well be for a reason. So, when Google announced the new Morning Brief feature headed to the Pixel Watch 3, I was excited to see a tool that would join me from groggy to caffeinated. Instead, the inconsistency of the new brief has left me wondering if even a smartwatch tool can hit snooze.

Inconsistently accountable

The prospect of waking up early is rarely exciting, but according to health professionals, consistency is key. Unfortunately, no one seems to have told Morning Brief. Since starting to wear my Pixel Watch 3 regularly, I’ve had multiple days when I don’t receive my briefs until well after I’m out of bed and have gotten my day started, and by “well” I mean hours later.

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Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

To be clear, I am not a morning person by nature, but years of obligational early starts have trained me to handle waking up fairly well. I may have insane bed hair, and I will definitely not be able to see my own hands until I locate my glasses, but I do functionally adhere to the proverbial “up and at ’em.” In other words, I like to get my day started at a clip because if I’m getting up, then it might as well be for a reason. So, when Google announced the new Morning Brief feature headed to the Pixel Watch 3, I was excited to see a tool that would join me from groggy to caffeinated. Instead, the inconsistency of the new brief has left me wondering if even a smartwatch tool can hit snooze.

Inconsistently accountable

The prospect of waking up early is rarely exciting, but according to health professionals, consistency is key. Unfortunately, no one seems to have told Morning Brief. Since starting to wear my Pixel Watch 3 regularly, I’ve had multiple days when I don’t receive my briefs until well after I’m out of bed and have gotten my day started, and by “well” I mean hours later.

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The nifty Ask Photos feature is now available for some Google Photos users

Credit: Google I/O

• Google has rolled out its Ask Photos feature to some Google Photos users.
• The feature only seems to be available to some US users who signed up for a waitlist.
• Ask Photos allows you to use natural language to search through your photo library.

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Google announced an Ask Photos feature for Google Photos back in May. This feature, which is powered by Gemini, allows you to search for photos using natural language. It now looks like this feature is available for some users.

9to5Google and Android expert Mishaal Rahman spotted this rollout. However, it seems the feature is only coming to some US users who signed up for a waitlist. It also looks like this option is coming as a server-side change, so it doesn’t matter what version of Google Photos you’ve got. Check out a few screenshots below, courtesy of 9to5Google.

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Credit: Google I/O

• Google has rolled out its Ask Photos feature to some Google Photos users.
• The feature only seems to be available to some US users who signed up for a waitlist.
• Ask Photos allows you to use natural language to search through your photo library.

---

Google announced an Ask Photos feature for Google Photos back in May. This feature, which is powered by Gemini, allows you to search for photos using natural language. It now looks like this feature is available for some users.

9to5Google and Android expert Mishaal Rahman spotted this rollout. However, it seems the feature is only coming to some US users who signed up for a waitlist. It also looks like this option is coming as a server-side change, so it doesn’t matter what version of Google Photos you’ve got. Check out a few screenshots below, courtesy of 9to5Google.

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Google’s circular, double-sided Gboard keyboard is as crazy as it sounds

 

• Google Japan has announced a double-sided circular keyboard.
• The product is the latest quirky keyboard from the regional division.
• This keyboard isn’t actually for sale, but Google has open-sourced blueprints so you can make your own.

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Google Japan is known for its quirky keyboard inventions, such as a keyboard cup and a “stick” keyboard. Now, the division has revealed arguably its craziest keyboard yet.

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• Google Japan has announced a double-sided circular keyboard.
• The product is the latest quirky keyboard from the regional division.
• This keyboard isn’t actually for sale, but Google has open-sourced blueprints so you can make your own.

---

Google Japan is known for its quirky keyboard inventions, such as a keyboard cup and a “stick” keyboard. Now, the division has revealed arguably its craziest keyboard yet.

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Facebook #Advertisement Service #digitalmarketing

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Google’s new TV Streamer box is driving owners nuts with out-of-sync audio (Update: Google response)

• Multiple owners of the Google TV Streamer report the device losing sync between video and audio playback.
• The issue seems to get worse the longer the box is left on, and briefly gets better following a reset.
• The problem appears to be system-wide, rather than impacting only certain streaming services.

---

Update, October 4, 2024 (03:14 PM ET): We’ve now heard back from Google regarding the reports of these issues, and the company is able to confirm that it’s a real — if uncommon — problem. A Google spokesperson tells Android Authority:

Unfortunately, it’s a bug affecting a very small number of users that have very specific equipment and configurations, we’re currently working on a fix and will update users once it’s resolved. In the meantime, we encourage any users who may be experiencing this issue to contact Google Support for help at g.co/nest/contact.

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• Multiple owners of the Google TV Streamer report the device losing sync between video and audio playback.
• The issue seems to get worse the longer the box is left on, and briefly gets better following a reset.
• The problem appears to be system-wide, rather than impacting only certain streaming services.

---

Update, October 4, 2024 (03:14 PM ET): We’ve now heard back from Google regarding the reports of these issues, and the company is able to confirm that it’s a real — if uncommon — problem. A Google spokesperson tells Android Authority:

Unfortunately, it’s a bug affecting a very small number of users that have very specific equipment and configurations, we’re currently working on a fix and will update users once it’s resolved. In the meantime, we encourage any users who may be experiencing this issue to contact Google Support for help at g.co/nest/contact.

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Samsung is once again sacrificing Android updates at the altar of One UI

Samsung’s annual developer’s conference (finally) gave us a tiny sneak peek at the upcoming One UI 7 update, but those looking forward to jumping into the latest Galaxy interface will have come away disappointed. Samsung’s One UI 7 update schedule reveals that the new version will officially land with the Galaxy S25 series, which will likely debut around January or February 2025. That’ll be at least four months after Android 15 started rolling out to Google’s Pixel series — an age in the realm of modern updates.

By contrast, One UI 6 landed for the previous-gen Galaxy S23 in October 2023, so basically, this time last year. Likewise, One UI 5 debuted on the S22 series in October 2022, and stable builds of One UI 4 arrived for consumers in November 2021. In recent years, we haven’t had to wait for the next-gen flagship to get our hands on many of Samsung’s latest software goodies, earning the brand solid brownie points for putting software at the forefront of the Galaxy experience. Sadly, that’s not happening this year, and it could be weeks or even months after the Galaxy S25 launch before current Galaxy flagships see One UI 7.

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Samsung’s annual developer’s conference (finally) gave us a tiny sneak peek at the upcoming One UI 7 update, but those looking forward to jumping into the latest Galaxy interface will have come away disappointed. Samsung’s One UI 7 update schedule reveals that the new version will officially land with the Galaxy S25 series, which will likely debut around January or February 2025. That’ll be at least four months after Android 15 started rolling out to Google’s Pixel series — an age in the realm of modern updates.

By contrast, One UI 6 landed for the previous-gen Galaxy S23 in October 2023, so basically, this time last year. Likewise, One UI 5 debuted on the S22 series in October 2022, and stable builds of One UI 4 arrived for consumers in November 2021. In recent years, we haven’t had to wait for the next-gen flagship to get our hands on many of Samsung’s latest software goodies, earning the brand solid brownie points for putting software at the forefront of the Galaxy experience. Sadly, that’s not happening this year, and it could be weeks or even months after the Galaxy S25 launch before current Galaxy flagships see One UI 7.

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Galaxy Ring too expensive? Your health insurance might help with that

• The Samsung Galaxy Ring is now eligible in the US for FSA and HSA funds.
• These accounts let people set aside pre-tax income for medical expenses.
• Samsung joins other smart rings like Oura’s in this program.

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Change is slow to come to the wearables market, but over the past few years we’ve noticed one segment in particular really starting to pick up steam, and today there are plenty of great smart rings for you to choose from. Just like smartwatches, though, these wearables can get very expensive, very fast, so shoppers are going to be looking for any break they can catch. Thankfully, this product segment in particular can tap into a pretty sweet deal, and Samsung’s new Galaxy Ring just found itself eligible.

We’re talking about pre-tax health savings, available in the US as a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA). With these, people can pay for medical expenses that aren’t already covered by their insurance with income that’s set aside before the government takes its regular cut. It’s not exactly “free” money, but when you’re paying for authorized medical expenses, it makes your dollar stretch a whole lot further.

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• The Samsung Galaxy Ring is now eligible in the US for FSA and HSA funds.
• These accounts let people set aside pre-tax income for medical expenses.
• Samsung joins other smart rings like Oura’s in this program.

---

Change is slow to come to the wearables market, but over the past few years we’ve noticed one segment in particular really starting to pick up steam, and today there are plenty of great smart rings for you to choose from. Just like smartwatches, though, these wearables can get very expensive, very fast, so shoppers are going to be looking for any break they can catch. Thankfully, this product segment in particular can tap into a pretty sweet deal, and Samsung’s new Galaxy Ring just found itself eligible.

We’re talking about pre-tax health savings, available in the US as a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA). With these, people can pay for medical expenses that aren’t already covered by their insurance with income that’s set aside before the government takes its regular cut. It’s not exactly “free” money, but when you’re paying for authorized medical expenses, it makes your dollar stretch a whole lot further.

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Samsung Passkey could be the next Google Password Manager and LastPass competitor

• Samsung Passkey is expanding support to the company’s smart home devices.
• TV integration begins with 2025 Tizen models.
• Support on other Samsung home appliances should simply setup while enhancing security.

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This year’s Samsung Developer Conference might have been a little underwhelming on the phone side, with news of Samsung’s lackadaisical One UI 7 timetable just leaving us feeling bummed out. But to Samsung’s credit, the company’s interested in a whole lot more than just its smartphone platform, and we got to hear plenty of news about the company’s efforts across the rest of the smart home, from Tizen TVs to smartlocks and showers. That includes Samsung expanding Passkey to begin supporting smart home hardware.

Passkeys, as you may be aware, are the new hottness in authentication, replacing easily hacked or forgotten passwords with biometrics tied to cryptographic keys. They’ve already made a big impact on Android, and the latest trend seems to be expanding passkey access across platforms, like we just saw Google up to.

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• Samsung Passkey is expanding support to the company’s smart home devices.
• TV integration begins with 2025 Tizen models.
• Support on other Samsung home appliances should simply setup while enhancing security.

---

This year’s Samsung Developer Conference might have been a little underwhelming on the phone side, with news of Samsung’s lackadaisical One UI 7 timetable just leaving us feeling bummed out. But to Samsung’s credit, the company’s interested in a whole lot more than just its smartphone platform, and we got to hear plenty of news about the company’s efforts across the rest of the smart home, from Tizen TVs to smartlocks and showers. That includes Samsung expanding Passkey to begin supporting smart home hardware.

Passkeys, as you may be aware, are the new hottness in authentication, replacing easily hacked or forgotten passwords with biometrics tied to cryptographic keys. They’ve already made a big impact on Android, and the latest trend seems to be expanding passkey access across platforms, like we just saw Google up to.

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Google Pixel 9a rumors: Everything we know so far and what we want to see

The Google Pixel 8a has been a solid addition to the Pixel lineup. It is a great recommendation as a budget Android device, especially if you want most of the perks of a Pixel without spending too much on a flagship. But the phone has been around for a few months, and with the Pixel 9 series now around and in the hands of users, we can look forward to what Google has been cooking for its upcoming A-series successor. Here’s everything we know about the Pixel 9a, as well as features and changes we wish the device comes with.

Google Pixel 9a: At a glance

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The Google Pixel 8a has been a solid addition to the Pixel lineup. It is a great recommendation as a budget Android device, especially if you want most of the perks of a Pixel without spending too much on a flagship. But the phone has been around for a few months, and with the Pixel 9 series now around and in the hands of users, we can look forward to what Google has been cooking for its upcoming A-series successor. Here’s everything we know about the Pixel 9a, as well as features and changes we wish the device comes with.

Google Pixel 9a: At a glance

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The best new streaming movies this week: Wolfs and more

We’re excited for today’s list — loads on horror in store for you. We’ve got Brad Pitt and Clooney starrer too, so you’ll be glued to your couch all weekend. Grab a cup of coffee, and lets begin. 

The best new streaming movies this week

• Apartment 7A
• Oddity
• Will & Harper
• Wolfs
• Asphalt City
• The Strangers: Chapter 1

Apartment 7A – September 27, Paramount Plus

• Release date: September 20, 2024 
• Genre: Horror, Thriller
• Rating: R
• Director: Natalie Erika James
• Cast: Julia Garner, Dianne Wiest, Kevin McNally, Jim Sturgess, Marli Siu, Rosy McEwen, Andrew Buchan

This Rosemary’s Baby prequel focuses on Terry Gionoffrio, an ambitious dancer in 1960s New York whose Broadway dreams are crushed by a foot injury. Taken in by the mysterious Castevets, Terry is given a rent-free apartment in their building. But, there’s a catch. As her fortunes improve, she becomes entangled in the couple’s sinister plans involving devil worship.

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We’re excited for today’s list — loads on horror in store for you. We’ve got Brad Pitt and Clooney starrer too, so you’ll be glued to your couch all weekend. Grab a cup of coffee, and lets begin. 

The best new streaming movies this week

• Apartment 7A
• Oddity
• Will & Harper
• Wolfs
• Asphalt City
• The Strangers: Chapter 1

Apartment 7A – September 27, Paramount Plus

• Release date: September 20, 2024 
• Genre: Horror, Thriller
• Rating: R
• Director: Natalie Erika James
• Cast: Julia Garner, Dianne Wiest, Kevin McNally, Jim Sturgess, Marli Siu, Rosy McEwen, Andrew Buchan

This Rosemary’s Baby prequel focuses on Terry Gionoffrio, an ambitious dancer in 1960s New York whose Broadway dreams are crushed by a foot injury. Taken in by the mysterious Castevets, Terry is given a rent-free apartment in their building. But, there’s a catch. As her fortunes improve, she becomes entangled in the couple’s sinister plans involving devil worship.

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Fresh Samsung Galaxy A16 leak reveals all you need to know about its hardware

Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority

• A European retailer has erroneously shared listings of the Galaxy A16 ahead of the launch, revealing key details.
• The listings suggest that the device will feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate and a triple camera setup.
• The device could come with a 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging support and an IP54 rating.

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The Samsung Galaxy A16 may still be a few months away, but we’ve already seen plenty of leaks about the budget-friendly phone. So far, we’ve learned that the device could feature the same design as its predecessor and come with better software support than any other budget phone currently on the market. Now, a fresh leak has revealed the complete spec list for both the 5G and LTE models.

According to SamInsider (via GSMArena), a European retailer has prematurely published Galaxy A16 listings that give us another look at its design and highlight key specifications. The listings reveal that both variants of the Galaxy A16 will feature a larger 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 2340×1080 resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. The LTE model will feature an unnamed octa-core processor, likely the MediaTek Helio G99, while the 5G model will pack Samsung’s Exynos 1330 chipset.

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Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority

• A European retailer has erroneously shared listings of the Galaxy A16 ahead of the launch, revealing key details.
• The listings suggest that the device will feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate and a triple camera setup.
• The device could come with a 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging support and an IP54 rating.

---

The Samsung Galaxy A16 may still be a few months away, but we’ve already seen plenty of leaks about the budget-friendly phone. So far, we’ve learned that the device could feature the same design as its predecessor and come with better software support than any other budget phone currently on the market. Now, a fresh leak has revealed the complete spec list for both the 5G and LTE models.

According to SamInsider (via GSMArena), a European retailer has prematurely published Galaxy A16 listings that give us another look at its design and highlight key specifications. The listings reveal that both variants of the Galaxy A16 will feature a larger 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 2340×1080 resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. The LTE model will feature an unnamed octa-core processor, likely the MediaTek Helio G99, while the 5G model will pack Samsung’s Exynos 1330 chipset.

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Amazon gives the Fire HD 8 a big RAM boost with newly launched models

Credit: Amazon

• Amazon is launching a new lineup of Fire HD 8 tablets.
• The new tablets offer 50% more RAM than before.
• The company is also rolling out three new AI features for compatible Fire tablets.

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Amazon’s Fire tablets may not be in the same class as Samsung’s Galaxy Tab or Apple’s iPad, but they are capable devices that provide decent bang for your buck. The latest additions to the Fire HD 8 line will give the series a much-needed upgrade, along with some new features.

Today, Amazon announced it is launching a new lineup of Fire HD 8 tablets. These models include the Fire HD 8 (2024), Fire HD 8 Kids, and Fire HD 8 Kids Pro. All three models will have their own collection of colors, which include:

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Credit: Amazon

• Amazon is launching a new lineup of Fire HD 8 tablets.
• The new tablets offer 50% more RAM than before.
• The company is also rolling out three new AI features for compatible Fire tablets.

---

Amazon’s Fire tablets may not be in the same class as Samsung’s Galaxy Tab or Apple’s iPad, but they are capable devices that provide decent bang for your buck. The latest additions to the Fire HD 8 line will give the series a much-needed upgrade, along with some new features.

Today, Amazon announced it is launching a new lineup of Fire HD 8 tablets. These models include the Fire HD 8 (2024), Fire HD 8 Kids, and Fire HD 8 Kids Pro. All three models will have their own collection of colors, which include:

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Google’s new TV Streamer box is driving owners nuts with out-of-sync audio

• Multiple owners of the Google TV Streamer report the device losing sync between video and audio playback.
• The issue seems to get worse the longer the box is left on, and briefly gets better following a reset.
• The problem appears to be system-wide, rather than impacting only certain streaming services.

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Modern video streaming can be something of a nightmare for people particularly sensitive to sync issues — when audio and video playback aren’t quite exactly lined up. While on old physical media sound and video would be tied together on the same piece of tape or film, with modern digital transport mechanisms and signal processing, it’s easy to get into situations where you’re out of sync by hundreds of milliseconds or more. New owners of the Google TV Streamer are now running into what seems to be a particularly egregious case of this kind of sync problem.

A growing number of users have taken to Reddit and Google’s support forums to report their experiences, and accounts from ShadowMario01, SleepyOne, and Aluuh share similar problems. They’re seeing pervasive issues with audio delays across the Google TV Streamer experience — not just in multiple apps, but also with the system UI itself. At least one report notes that the issue appears to get worse over time, almost as if there’s a “drift” to the problem.

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• Multiple owners of the Google TV Streamer report the device losing sync between video and audio playback.
• The issue seems to get worse the longer the box is left on, and briefly gets better following a reset.
• The problem appears to be system-wide, rather than impacting only certain streaming services.

---

Modern video streaming can be something of a nightmare for people particularly sensitive to sync issues — when audio and video playback aren’t quite exactly lined up. While on old physical media sound and video would be tied together on the same piece of tape or film, with modern digital transport mechanisms and signal processing, it’s easy to get into situations where you’re out of sync by hundreds of milliseconds or more. New owners of the Google TV Streamer are now running into what seems to be a particularly egregious case of this kind of sync problem.

A growing number of users have taken to Reddit and Google’s support forums to report their experiences, and accounts from ShadowMario01, SleepyOne, and Aluuh share similar problems. They’re seeing pervasive issues with audio delays across the Google TV Streamer experience — not just in multiple apps, but also with the system UI itself. At least one report notes that the issue appears to get worse over time, almost as if there’s a “drift” to the problem.

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