I ditched Google for ChatGPT Search to find out if the grass is really greener

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Whether it’s the relentless onslaught of ads or the dozens of inauthentic links occupying the top spot, using Google Search has never felt more unrewarding than in 2024. So it’s perhaps not surprising that entire AI startups like Perplexity have sprung up to threaten Google’s search business. Shortly after Google was forced to respond with its controversial AI Overviews feature, OpenAI also threw its hat into the arena with ChatGPT Search. The latter is finally rolling out to the general public, so I took it for a spin to find out if ChatGPT could potentially supplant Google for my search needs.

What is ChatGPT Search?

ChatGPT Search combines the chatbot’s excellent natural language understanding with a search engine for up-to-date information. If you’ve ever used Microsoft Copilot (formerly Bing Chat), you will feel right at home – the way they work is extremely similar, inline citations and everything. While OpenAI hasn’t revealed how it ranks online sources, the company’s VP of Engineering confirmed on Reddit that the feature relies on Bing to some extent.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Whether it’s the relentless onslaught of ads or the dozens of inauthentic links occupying the top spot, using Google Search has never felt more unrewarding than in 2024. So it’s perhaps not surprising that entire AI startups like Perplexity have sprung up to threaten Google’s search business. Shortly after Google was forced to respond with its controversial AI Overviews feature, OpenAI also threw its hat into the arena with ChatGPT Search. The latter is finally rolling out to the general public, so I took it for a spin to find out if ChatGPT could potentially supplant Google for my search needs.

What is ChatGPT Search?

ChatGPT Search combines the chatbot’s excellent natural language understanding with a search engine for up-to-date information. If you’ve ever used Microsoft Copilot (formerly Bing Chat), you will feel right at home – the way they work is extremely similar, inline citations and everything. While OpenAI hasn’t revealed how it ranks online sources, the company’s VP of Engineering confirmed on Reddit that the feature relies on Bing to some extent.

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Which Android brand outsources the most? It’s certainly not Samsung.

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Samsung shipped the fewest outsourced phones of any Android brand in the first half of 2024.
• The manufacturer shipped fewer outsourced or ODM phones compared to 2022 as well.
• Nine out of every 10 Motorola phones shipped in this period were outsourced designs, though.

---

Many smartphone manufacturers outsource the design of at least some phones to other companies, and a new report has revealed just how many of these phones are shipped by each brand.

Counterpoint Research reported the proportion of outsourced phones shipped by each smartphone maker in the first half of 2024. Check the graphic below for a quick rundown.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Samsung shipped the fewest outsourced phones of any Android brand in the first half of 2024.
• The manufacturer shipped fewer outsourced or ODM phones compared to 2022 as well.
• Nine out of every 10 Motorola phones shipped in this period were outsourced designs, though.

---

Many smartphone manufacturers outsource the design of at least some phones to other companies, and a new report has revealed just how many of these phones are shipped by each brand.

Counterpoint Research reported the proportion of outsourced phones shipped by each smartphone maker in the first half of 2024. Check the graphic below for a quick rundown.

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This is how I never miss a concert from my favorite bands in my city

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

For the first 35 years of my life, I lived in Lebanon, where big international bands and artists rarely hold any concerts. We’d get one or two big names a year, and it was easy to know who was coming and when because it would be all over the radio, billboards, and WhatsApp groups.

Moving to Paris, however, opened up a whole other world of live music for me. What was a once- or twice-yearly activity became a monthly — weekly if you have the budget for it! — possibility. Every artist, every band, big or small, will stop by Paris on their “worldwide” tour (which likely only includes a few US cities, Paris, London, and Berlin, but I digress.)

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

For the first 35 years of my life, I lived in Lebanon, where big international bands and artists rarely hold any concerts. We’d get one or two big names a year, and it was easy to know who was coming and when because it would be all over the radio, billboards, and WhatsApp groups.

Moving to Paris, however, opened up a whole other world of live music for me. What was a once- or twice-yearly activity became a monthly — weekly if you have the budget for it! — possibility. Every artist, every band, big or small, will stop by Paris on their “worldwide” tour (which likely only includes a few US cities, Paris, London, and Berlin, but I digress.)

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It’s looking more likely that all iPhone 17 models will (finally) get 120Hz screens

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• A Korean outlet has reported that all iPhone 17 handsets will offer an LTPO screen, enabling a high refresh rate.
• This technology also allows for extremely low refresh rates, giving users better battery life.
• The news comes after previous rumors that the iPhone 17 lineup will offer high refresh rate screens.

---

Apple has restricted high refresh rate screens to its iPhone Pro models since 2021, despite the fact that even cheap Android phones offer this functionality. We’ve previously heard rumors that all iPhone 17 models could grab this feature, and now another source has corroborated these claims.

ET News, citing an industry source, reports that all iPhone 17 models expected to launch next year will have LTPO screens. This screen technology — which enables a high refresh rate with granular adjustments — has been restricted to Apple’s Pro models since 2021. So it’s sounding more likely that all iPhone 17 models will have a 120Hz refresh rate.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• A Korean outlet has reported that all iPhone 17 handsets will offer an LTPO screen, enabling a high refresh rate.
• This technology also allows for extremely low refresh rates, giving users better battery life.
• The news comes after previous rumors that the iPhone 17 lineup will offer high refresh rate screens.

---

Apple has restricted high refresh rate screens to its iPhone Pro models since 2021, despite the fact that even cheap Android phones offer this functionality. We’ve previously heard rumors that all iPhone 17 models could grab this feature, and now another source has corroborated these claims.

ET News, citing an industry source, reports that all iPhone 17 models expected to launch next year will have LTPO screens. This screen technology — which enables a high refresh rate with granular adjustments — has been restricted to Apple’s Pro models since 2021. So it’s sounding more likely that all iPhone 17 models will have a 120Hz refresh rate.

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Samsung may have copied one of the better Apple Intelligence features

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Samsung has reportedly added a notification summary feature to the latest beta version of One UI 7.
• Apple iPhones have a similar feature as part of the Apple Intelligence suite of capabilities.

---

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series debuted various so-called Galaxy AI features earlier this year, ranging from generative photo editing to summarization functionality. Now, it sounds like the next Galaxy AI addition will be derived from iPhones.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• Samsung has reportedly added a notification summary feature to the latest beta version of One UI 7.
• Apple iPhones have a similar feature as part of the Apple Intelligence suite of capabilities.

---

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series debuted various so-called Galaxy AI features earlier this year, ranging from generative photo editing to summarization functionality. Now, it sounds like the next Galaxy AI addition will be derived from iPhones.

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The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL drops by $200 for the first time!

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is one of the best phones the market has to offer, and it’s also pretty new, launched in August 2024. We haven’t seen any real discounts on it, other than the free gift card Amazon and Best Buy were giving out with it. That is, until today! You can finally get the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL at a lower cost than its $1,099 retail price. Today’s deal slashes the cost down to $899. That is a nice $200 discount!

Buy the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL for $899

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is one of the best phones the market has to offer, and it’s also pretty new, launched in August 2024. We haven’t seen any real discounts on it, other than the free gift card Amazon and Best Buy were giving out with it. That is, until today! You can finally get the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL at a lower cost than its $1,099 retail price. Today’s deal slashes the cost down to $899. That is a nice $200 discount!

Buy the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL for $899

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Google may finally add album art to Now Playing on Pixel phones

• Google is finally looking to upgrade the Pixel’s Now Playing feature by adding album art to the history page.
• Since the feature was introduced, it’s been able to show you a list of songs it recognized, but that list only included the song name, artist, and time of recognition.
• A recent code change suggests that the feature will start to pull album art images curated by YouTube Music.

---

Google Pixel devices may not always have the absolute best hardware among Android phones, but they do offer a lot of really attractive Pixel-only features that are hard to replicate on other devices. Take “Now Playing” as an example: This Pixel exclusive was introduced with the Pixel 2 series in 2017, and it identifies songs that are playing nearby. Sure, apps like Shazam are readily available and have done music recognition for years, but Now Playing works entirely in the background without you even needing to pull out your phone.

The way Now Playing works is quite clever. Your Pixel phone downloads a database containing tens of thousands of fingerprints of the most popular songs in your region. These fingerprints are unique identifiers that allow your phone to recognize what song is playing using only a few seconds of audio. Your phone’s ultra low power co-processor is continuously analyzing audio through the microphone, and when it picks up audio that sounds like it could be music, the main processor is woken up to record a few seconds of the audio. An on-device machine learning model then matches the audio to one of the fingerprints in the Now Playing database. Finally, the name and artist of the song is displayed on the lock screen as well as in a notification.

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• Google is finally looking to upgrade the Pixel’s Now Playing feature by adding album art to the history page.
• Since the feature was introduced, it’s been able to show you a list of songs it recognized, but that list only included the song name, artist, and time of recognition.
• A recent code change suggests that the feature will start to pull album art images curated by YouTube Music.

---

Google Pixel devices may not always have the absolute best hardware among Android phones, but they do offer a lot of really attractive Pixel-only features that are hard to replicate on other devices. Take “Now Playing” as an example: This Pixel exclusive was introduced with the Pixel 2 series in 2017, and it identifies songs that are playing nearby. Sure, apps like Shazam are readily available and have done music recognition for years, but Now Playing works entirely in the background without you even needing to pull out your phone.

The way Now Playing works is quite clever. Your Pixel phone downloads a database containing tens of thousands of fingerprints of the most popular songs in your region. These fingerprints are unique identifiers that allow your phone to recognize what song is playing using only a few seconds of audio. Your phone’s ultra low power co-processor is continuously analyzing audio through the microphone, and when it picks up audio that sounds like it could be music, the main processor is woken up to record a few seconds of the audio. An on-device machine learning model then matches the audio to one of the fingerprints in the Now Playing database. Finally, the name and artist of the song is displayed on the lock screen as well as in a notification.

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Poll: Should Samsung ditch One UI so you can get faster Android updates?

Right now, Pixel owners everywhere are running Android 15 on their phones. And just earlier today, Google shared that Android 16 is going to be upon us sooner than anyone expected. But the vast majority of Android users out there are still operating devices running Android 14 or older. That includes everyone with a Samsung phone — but does this really need to be the case?

Usually Samsung gets a public beta program running by this time in the year, at least giving particularly eager Galaxy users the chance to try out the latest features a little bit early. But with One UI 7, as Samsung’s implementing Android 15, that timetable has shifted back — and no one seems very happy about this.

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Right now, Pixel owners everywhere are running Android 15 on their phones. And just earlier today, Google shared that Android 16 is going to be upon us sooner than anyone expected. But the vast majority of Android users out there are still operating devices running Android 14 or older. That includes everyone with a Samsung phone — but does this really need to be the case?

Usually Samsung gets a public beta program running by this time in the year, at least giving particularly eager Galaxy users the chance to try out the latest features a little bit early. But with One UI 7, as Samsung’s implementing Android 15, that timetable has shifted back — and no one seems very happy about this.

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Save $370 on a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, still one of the best phones

Credit: Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority

There are many factors to consider when looking for the best high-end smartphone. Regardless of your preferences, though, you can be sure the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra will be on your radar. This phone is still impressive, but it is also expensive. It’s good to be on the lookout for a good deal, and today, we have a really nice one for you. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra with upgraded 512GB of storage is currently $370 off if you pick one of Samsung’s exclusive colors, slashing the price down to $1,049.99.

Buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (512GB) for just $1,049.99

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Credit: Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority

There are many factors to consider when looking for the best high-end smartphone. Regardless of your preferences, though, you can be sure the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra will be on your radar. This phone is still impressive, but it is also expensive. It’s good to be on the lookout for a good deal, and today, we have a really nice one for you. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra with upgraded 512GB of storage is currently $370 off if you pick one of Samsung’s exclusive colors, slashing the price down to $1,049.99.

Buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (512GB) for just $1,049.99

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The 15-inch Apple MacBook Air M2 is also on sale – $300 off!

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

We’ve seen some of the hottest discounts on Apple laptops in the past couple of weeks. This is likely thanks to this week’s new and improved models, but some of you will be perfectly happy with an M2 processor and 8GB of RAM, so these deals on previous models are still very enticing. That said, we’ve mostly covered sales on the 13.6-inch versions, not the 15.3-inch ones. If you’ve been hoping to get yourself one of the larger models, the Apple MacBook Air M2 15-Inch is $300 off right now, bringing the price down to $999.

Buy the Apple MacBook Air M2 15-Inch for just $999

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

We’ve seen some of the hottest discounts on Apple laptops in the past couple of weeks. This is likely thanks to this week’s new and improved models, but some of you will be perfectly happy with an M2 processor and 8GB of RAM, so these deals on previous models are still very enticing. That said, we’ve mostly covered sales on the 13.6-inch versions, not the 15.3-inch ones. If you’ve been hoping to get yourself one of the larger models, the Apple MacBook Air M2 15-Inch is $300 off right now, bringing the price down to $999.

Buy the Apple MacBook Air M2 15-Inch for just $999

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Google gives Gemini a new trick to encourage multitasking

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Gemini is getting a split-screen shortcut on large-screen Android devices.
• The new split-screen experience allows users to multitask.
• The shortcut has been seen on the Pixel Tablet and Fold.

---

One of the best things about larger-screen devices is how much easier it is to multitask. On that note, Gemini has just learned a new trick that will let you use it and another app at the same time on large-screen Android devices.

According to 9to5Google, Gemini now features a shortcut that allows you to enter into a split-screen experience. It sounds a lot like the Gemini multi-window mode feature we discovered through an APK teardown back in July. That feature allowed for two instances of Gemini to be used at the same time.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Gemini is getting a split-screen shortcut on large-screen Android devices.
• The new split-screen experience allows users to multitask.
• The shortcut has been seen on the Pixel Tablet and Fold.

---

One of the best things about larger-screen devices is how much easier it is to multitask. On that note, Gemini has just learned a new trick that will let you use it and another app at the same time on large-screen Android devices.

According to 9to5Google, Gemini now features a shortcut that allows you to enter into a split-screen experience. It sounds a lot like the Gemini multi-window mode feature we discovered through an APK teardown back in July. That feature allowed for two instances of Gemini to be used at the same time.

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Google gives Gboard a glow up with this colorful new change

Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority

• The Dynamic Color Gboard theme on Android is receiving an update that slightly changes its look.
• The accented non-letter buttons are now all the same color, creating a more unified appearance.
• No changes appear to have been made to the other themes.

---

The next time you start typing on your Android phone, you might notice something a little different with Gboard. The Dynamic Color theme for Gboard has received an update.

First spotted by 9to5Google, the accented non-letter keys for Gboard on the Dynamic Color theme have changed. The change applies to both the light and dark versions of the theme.

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Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority

• The Dynamic Color Gboard theme on Android is receiving an update that slightly changes its look.
• The accented non-letter buttons are now all the same color, creating a more unified appearance.
• No changes appear to have been made to the other themes.

---

The next time you start typing on your Android phone, you might notice something a little different with Gboard. The Dynamic Color theme for Gboard has received an update.

First spotted by 9to5Google, the accented non-letter keys for Gboard on the Dynamic Color theme have changed. The change applies to both the light and dark versions of the theme.

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Hot deal: Apple MacBook Air M2 plummets back to its $700 record-low price!

Credit: Mahmoud Itani / Android Authority

Are you looking to buy a new laptop? Great portable computers can get pricey, so waiting for the right deal is always better, and today, we have one of the hottest ones we’ve seen in a while. The Apple MacBook Air M2 just recently hit a new all-time low price of $699.99, which is a fantastic price for a laptop of this caliber. The price went up again for a bit, but now it’s back down to the same lower price point!

Buy the Apple MacBook Air M2 for a mere $699.99

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Credit: Mahmoud Itani / Android Authority

Are you looking to buy a new laptop? Great portable computers can get pricey, so waiting for the right deal is always better, and today, we have one of the hottest ones we’ve seen in a while. The Apple MacBook Air M2 just recently hit a new all-time low price of $699.99, which is a fantastic price for a laptop of this caliber. The price went up again for a bit, but now it’s back down to the same lower price point!

Buy the Apple MacBook Air M2 for a mere $699.99

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Major Pixel 9a leak reveals bigger display and battery for the same price

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• A new leak has revealed detailed specifications for Google’s upcoming Pixel 9a.
• The phone will reportedly feature a larger display, a bigger battery, and a new primary camera.
• The Pixel 9a might retain the same $499 starting price as its predecessor.

---

After surprising everyone with an August launch for the Pixel 9 series, the tech giant could be gearing up for an early launch for the Pixel 9a as well, which is evident from the numerous leaks we’ve already started to see about the phone.

The latest one comes from Android Headlines, which has leaked a treasure trove of details about the phone’s specs and potential pricing.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• A new leak has revealed detailed specifications for Google’s upcoming Pixel 9a.
• The phone will reportedly feature a larger display, a bigger battery, and a new primary camera.
• The Pixel 9a might retain the same $499 starting price as its predecessor.

---

After surprising everyone with an August launch for the Pixel 9 series, the tech giant could be gearing up for an early launch for the Pixel 9a as well, which is evident from the numerous leaks we’ve already started to see about the phone.

The latest one comes from Android Headlines, which has leaked a treasure trove of details about the phone’s specs and potential pricing.

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Russia wants Google to pay a fine that’s more money than exists on Earth

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Google has accumulated a fine of around 2 undecillion rubles ($2.5 decillion USD) in Russia.
• The fines are for Google’s refusal to reinstate YouTube accounts of pro-Kremlin media outlets.
• This fine is trillions of times Alphabet’s net worth, making it financially impossible to pay.

---

Google is no stranger to hefty fines. In the last decade alone, the tech giant has racked up an estimated $14 billion in penalties worldwide. But that figure is starting to look like spare change compared to the fines Google has accumulated in Russia. (h/t: The Moscow Times)

As reported by the RBC news website, Google’s unpaid fines in Russia have spiraled to an unimaginable 2 undecillion rubles ($2.5 decillion USD). To give you an idea of just how massive this number is, it requires 33 zeros to write out.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Google has accumulated a fine of around 2 undecillion rubles ($2.5 decillion USD) in Russia.
• The fines are for Google’s refusal to reinstate YouTube accounts of pro-Kremlin media outlets.
• This fine is trillions of times Alphabet’s net worth, making it financially impossible to pay.

---

Google is no stranger to hefty fines. In the last decade alone, the tech giant has racked up an estimated $14 billion in penalties worldwide. But that figure is starting to look like spare change compared to the fines Google has accumulated in Russia. (h/t: The Moscow Times)

As reported by the RBC news website, Google’s unpaid fines in Russia have spiraled to an unimaginable 2 undecillion rubles ($2.5 decillion USD). To give you an idea of just how massive this number is, it requires 33 zeros to write out.

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Deal: The 2024 Apple iPad Mini is $50 off already!

The brand new 7th-generation Apple iPad Mini was just released last week, on the 23rd, so we were surprised to see it at a discount on Friday. That was just a $15 discount, though. Today, we have an actual deal for you. You can take the 2024 Apple iPad Mini home for a $49.01 discount, slashing the price down to $449.99.

Buy the Apple iPad Mini 7th-generation for just $449.99

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The brand new 7th-generation Apple iPad Mini was just released last week, on the 23rd, so we were surprised to see it at a discount on Friday. That was just a $15 discount, though. Today, we have an actual deal for you. You can take the 2024 Apple iPad Mini home for a $49.01 discount, slashing the price down to $449.99.

Buy the Apple iPad Mini 7th-generation for just $449.99

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Google’s AI Overviews will be invading more users’ search results this week

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is expanding AI Overviews to over 100 additional countries.
• AI Overviews is getting support for more languages, including English, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.

---

When Google Search’s AI Overviews launched in May, it was initially only available in select countries. Google is now greatly expanding access to the AI search summary tool.

Today, Google announced that the AI feature that gives you a snapshot of information at the top of the results page will be coming to many more users starting this week. Back in August, the company added AI Overviews support in the UK, India, Japan, Indonesia, Mexico, and Brazil. Now the tool will be available to over 100 additional countries and territories. If your country wasn’t previously on the list, you can check if your country is one of the new additions on Google’s support page.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is expanding AI Overviews to over 100 additional countries.
• AI Overviews is getting support for more languages, including English, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.

---

When Google Search’s AI Overviews launched in May, it was initially only available in select countries. Google is now greatly expanding access to the AI search summary tool.

Today, Google announced that the AI feature that gives you a snapshot of information at the top of the results page will be coming to many more users starting this week. Back in August, the company added AI Overviews support in the UK, India, Japan, Indonesia, Mexico, and Brazil. Now the tool will be available to over 100 additional countries and territories. If your country wasn’t previously on the list, you can check if your country is one of the new additions on Google’s support page.

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Google quietly fixed the biggest problem with Quick Share for Windows

• Quick Share for Windows no longer requires your Windows PC and Android phone to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network to get decent transfer speeds.
• Instead, your Windows PC just needs to have Wi-Fi turned on, even if it’s not connected to any network.
• Previously, if your Windows PC and Android phone weren’t on the same network, your files would transfer really slowly over Bluetooth.

---

One of the best tools to transfer files between your Android phone and your Windows PC is Quick Share. It’s easy to set up, easy to use, and transfers files really quickly. However, one major issue with the Quick Share for Windows client is that it transfers files really slowly if your Windows PC isn’t on the same Wi-Fi network as your Android phone. At least, that’s how things used to be, because Google quietly fixed this problem some time back.

When Google launched Quick Share for Windows back in 2023, it stressed that both your Android phone and your Windows PC need to be connected to the same network in order to get the best file transfer speeds. If not, then Quick Share would transfer files over a Bluetooth connection, which is dramatically slower than a Wi-Fi connection. For example, when I tried to transfer a 5.4GB file from my Android phone to my Windows PC over a Bluetooth connection, the transfer rate hovered around 60KB/s, meaning it would take close to a day to complete the transfer.

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• Quick Share for Windows no longer requires your Windows PC and Android phone to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network to get decent transfer speeds.
• Instead, your Windows PC just needs to have Wi-Fi turned on, even if it’s not connected to any network.
• Previously, if your Windows PC and Android phone weren’t on the same network, your files would transfer really slowly over Bluetooth.

---

One of the best tools to transfer files between your Android phone and your Windows PC is Quick Share. It’s easy to set up, easy to use, and transfers files really quickly. However, one major issue with the Quick Share for Windows client is that it transfers files really slowly if your Windows PC isn’t on the same Wi-Fi network as your Android phone. At least, that’s how things used to be, because Google quietly fixed this problem some time back.

When Google launched Quick Share for Windows back in 2023, it stressed that both your Android phone and your Windows PC need to be connected to the same network in order to get the best file transfer speeds. If not, then Quick Share would transfer files over a Bluetooth connection, which is dramatically slower than a Wi-Fi connection. For example, when I tried to transfer a 5.4GB file from my Android phone to my Windows PC over a Bluetooth connection, the transfer rate hovered around 60KB/s, meaning it would take close to a day to complete the transfer.

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This is why I still use an Android custom ROM in 2024

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Custom ROMs used to be the thing for Android enthusiasts, but discussions surrounding them have died down in recent years. Better software updates, more polished UIs, and powerful hardware have made them feel less necessary. Yet, the community never completely disappeared and in 2024, you can still find dozens of Android phones and tablets with official LineageOS builds. So, what keeps so many hooked on modified operating systems when most others have moved on? I installed custom ROMs on two of my own Android devices to find out.

Why install a custom ROM in 2024?

The biggest reason to install a custom ROM hasn’t changed in over a decade — an aftermarket OS can extend the life of older Android devices that have long been abandoned by their respective manufacturers. Take the LG V40 or the OnePlus 7 Pro, for instance. Officially, both phones no longer receive new Android version updates or security patches. However, the enthusiast community has kept such devices alive with official LineageOS builds up to Android 14. Some popular phones like the Galaxy S5 still receive updates to this day.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Custom ROMs used to be the thing for Android enthusiasts, but discussions surrounding them have died down in recent years. Better software updates, more polished UIs, and powerful hardware have made them feel less necessary. Yet, the community never completely disappeared and in 2024, you can still find dozens of Android phones and tablets with official LineageOS builds. So, what keeps so many hooked on modified operating systems when most others have moved on? I installed custom ROMs on two of my own Android devices to find out.

Why install a custom ROM in 2024?

The biggest reason to install a custom ROM hasn’t changed in over a decade — an aftermarket OS can extend the life of older Android devices that have long been abandoned by their respective manufacturers. Take the LG V40 or the OnePlus 7 Pro, for instance. Officially, both phones no longer receive new Android version updates or security patches. However, the enthusiast community has kept such devices alive with official LineageOS builds up to Android 14. Some popular phones like the Galaxy S5 still receive updates to this day.

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Here are all the new Mac models Apple could announce this week

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

• Apple is expected to announce new Mac computers this week featuring the M4 chip designed for AI capabilities.
• The updated Macs will include a 24-inch iMac, 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, all powered by variations of the M4 chip.
• The Mac mini will also receive the M4 chip, along with a significant redesign that reduces its size and adds new ports.

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Now that the iPhone 16 series is out in the world, Apple is shifting its focus to refreshing its Mac lineup, with a series of announcements expected this week. The updates center around the introduction of the M4 chip, designed to enhance AI capabilities across the Mac family.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has outlined Apple’s expected lineup, which includes an updated 24-inch iMac, a pair of redesigned Mac mini models, and upgraded 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros. The iMac will start with the entry-level M4, while the Mac mini will offer the base M4 alongside the M4 Pro option. The MacBook Pros are set to host higher-powered M4 versions.

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

• Apple is expected to announce new Mac computers this week featuring the M4 chip designed for AI capabilities.
• The updated Macs will include a 24-inch iMac, 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, all powered by variations of the M4 chip.
• The Mac mini will also receive the M4 chip, along with a significant redesign that reduces its size and adds new ports.

---

Now that the iPhone 16 series is out in the world, Apple is shifting its focus to refreshing its Mac lineup, with a series of announcements expected this week. The updates center around the introduction of the M4 chip, designed to enhance AI capabilities across the Mac family.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has outlined Apple’s expected lineup, which includes an updated 24-inch iMac, a pair of redesigned Mac mini models, and upgraded 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros. The iMac will start with the entry-level M4, while the Mac mini will offer the base M4 alongside the M4 Pro option. The MacBook Pros are set to host higher-powered M4 versions.

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Google’s Jarvis may soon book your flights and find shopping deals on its own

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is reportedly developing an autonomous assistant called Project Jarvis.
• Jarvis will take over your web browser to handle tasks like research, shopping, and booking flights.
• It may be previewed as early as December, debuting alongside the Gemini 2.0 AI model.

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Google is reportedly developing an AI with the potential to upgrade how we interact with the web. Codenamed “Jarvis,” this autonomous technology is designed to “take over your web browser” and complete tasks such as conducting research, making purchases, and booking flights, as reported by The Information on Saturday.

The name “Jarvis” might ring a bell for Marvel fans, bringing to mind Iron Man’s super-intelligent AI assistant, J.A.R.V.I.S. While Google’s Jarvis may not be able to help you with time travel just yet, it could still be a valuable tool for anyone who wants to save time and effort on common web-based tasks. Imagine being able to ask Jarvis to research a topic, find the best deals on a product, or book the cheapest flights for your upcoming travels.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is reportedly developing an autonomous assistant called Project Jarvis.
• Jarvis will take over your web browser to handle tasks like research, shopping, and booking flights.
• It may be previewed as early as December, debuting alongside the Gemini 2.0 AI model.

---

Google is reportedly developing an AI with the potential to upgrade how we interact with the web. Codenamed “Jarvis,” this autonomous technology is designed to “take over your web browser” and complete tasks such as conducting research, making purchases, and booking flights, as reported by The Information on Saturday.

The name “Jarvis” might ring a bell for Marvel fans, bringing to mind Iron Man’s super-intelligent AI assistant, J.A.R.V.I.S. While Google’s Jarvis may not be able to help you with time travel just yet, it could still be a valuable tool for anyone who wants to save time and effort on common web-based tasks. Imagine being able to ask Jarvis to research a topic, find the best deals on a product, or book the cheapest flights for your upcoming travels.

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The Pixel 9 Pro’s camera is too boring compared to the iPhone 16 Pro’s Photography Styles

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

Opinion post by

Dhruv Bhutani

If the success of the Fuji X100 series of cameras and the resurgence of point-and-shoot cameras is anything to go by, we’re back in the era of vibes taking precedence over pinpoint accuracy. It’s really no surprise either. While manufacturers battle for ‘natural’ looking images to take up the mantle of the best camera smartphone, actual users overwhelmingly tend to use filters ranging from Instagram’s built-in options to VSCO and Lightroom. But what if there was a way to achieve a middle ground?

Filters built into phone cameras aren’t new. Xiaomi, vivo, and many other brands had the feature for years. But the iPhone 16 series and its Photographic Styles do it differently, and I’m here for it. Over the last month, I’ve been dual-wielding the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the Pixel 9 Pro, and nine out of ten times, it is the iPhone that I opt for when it’s time to take a photograph. Simply put, I’ve been having way more fun shooting with the iPhone. Here’s why.

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Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

Opinion post by

Dhruv Bhutani

If the success of the Fuji X100 series of cameras and the resurgence of point-and-shoot cameras is anything to go by, we’re back in the era of vibes taking precedence over pinpoint accuracy. It’s really no surprise either. While manufacturers battle for ‘natural’ looking images to take up the mantle of the best camera smartphone, actual users overwhelmingly tend to use filters ranging from Instagram’s built-in options to VSCO and Lightroom. But what if there was a way to achieve a middle ground?

Filters built into phone cameras aren’t new. Xiaomi, vivo, and many other brands had the feature for years. But the iPhone 16 series and its Photographic Styles do it differently, and I’m here for it. Over the last month, I’ve been dual-wielding the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the Pixel 9 Pro, and nine out of ten times, it is the iPhone that I opt for when it’s time to take a photograph. Simply put, I’ve been having way more fun shooting with the iPhone. Here’s why.

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Change my mind: Modern phones are too damn slippery

Opinion post by

Nick Fernandez

As someone who reviews phone cases for Android Authority, I don’t often use a naked smartphone. When I get a new device, it’s nearly always to review cases. But when the Google Pixel 9 came in, I decided to do something different. After I had finished testing way too many Pixel 9 cases, I decided to bare it all and use the phone without a case for a few days.

Daring, I know.

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Opinion post by

Nick Fernandez

As someone who reviews phone cases for Android Authority, I don’t often use a naked smartphone. When I get a new device, it’s nearly always to review cases. But when the Google Pixel 9 came in, I decided to do something different. After I had finished testing way too many Pixel 9 cases, I decided to bare it all and use the phone without a case for a few days.

Daring, I know.

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Using an old Samsung phone? Your device could be at risk from a serious vulnerability

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

• Google discovered a severe vulnerability in certain older Samsung Exynos processors that hackers are actively exploiting.
• The flaw allows attackers to gain control over affected devices, potentially accessing sensitive functions remotely.
• Samsung has acknowledged the flaw and issued an October security patch to fix it.

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Google’s security team has just revealed a severe vulnerability of certain Samsung phones, and hackers are already exploiting it. Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG) uncovered this exploit, detailing how attackers are leveraging a bug within Samsung’s processors to gain unauthorized access and execute arbitrary code on devices. (h/t: The Register)

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-44068, targets Samsung’s mobile processors, including older models like Exynos 9820, 9825, 980, 990, 850, and W920. This vulnerability could impact a variety of Samsung devices, especially older models like the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 series. Samsung has released a patch as part of its October 7 security maintenance update, but older devices might miss out on this protection if they lack regular software support.

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

• Google discovered a severe vulnerability in certain older Samsung Exynos processors that hackers are actively exploiting.
• The flaw allows attackers to gain control over affected devices, potentially accessing sensitive functions remotely.
• Samsung has acknowledged the flaw and issued an October security patch to fix it.

---

Google’s security team has just revealed a severe vulnerability of certain Samsung phones, and hackers are already exploiting it. Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG) uncovered this exploit, detailing how attackers are leveraging a bug within Samsung’s processors to gain unauthorized access and execute arbitrary code on devices. (h/t: The Register)

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-44068, targets Samsung’s mobile processors, including older models like Exynos 9820, 9825, 980, 990, 850, and W920. This vulnerability could impact a variety of Samsung devices, especially older models like the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 series. Samsung has released a patch as part of its October 7 security maintenance update, but older devices might miss out on this protection if they lack regular software support.

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8BitDo challenges Backbone at its own game with new attachable mobile controller

Credit: 8BitDo

• The latest controller from 8BitDo is a Bluetooth gamepad for Android.
• The Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller clamps onto to phone, similar to the Backbone One.
• The controller is available to pre-order for $49.99.

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You may be familiar with 8BitDo for its selection of third-party game controllers and adapters. The company is launching yet another controller, but this time it’s specifically targeting Android devices.

Today, 8BitDo announced the launch of the Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller (UMGC). This gamepad is, in fact, the company’s first controller designed to attach directly to a smartphone.

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Credit: 8BitDo

• The latest controller from 8BitDo is a Bluetooth gamepad for Android.
• The Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller clamps onto to phone, similar to the Backbone One.
• The controller is available to pre-order for $49.99.

---

You may be familiar with 8BitDo for its selection of third-party game controllers and adapters. The company is launching yet another controller, but this time it’s specifically targeting Android devices.

Today, 8BitDo announced the launch of the Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller (UMGC). This gamepad is, in fact, the company’s first controller designed to attach directly to a smartphone.

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The Browser Company is living up to its name, announces Arc follow-up

Credit: Andy Walker / Android Authority

• The Browser Company is creating a simpler, AI-powered browser for mainstream users.
• The new browser will have a more familiar interface than Arc and will feature more AI integration.
• Arc will not be discontinued and will still get updates.

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The Browser Company, known for its innovative Arc browser, is shifting its focus. Arc may be popular with power users but hasn’t achieved mainstream adoption, with its complexity thought to be the main barrier to entry. To address this, the company has now revealed its plans for a new and simpler browser.

Speaking to The Verge and outlining plans in a YouTube video, CEO Josh Miller acknowledged that while Arc’s unique features, like its sidebar and customization options, have gained a loyal following, it has proven too different for the broader audience.

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Credit: Andy Walker / Android Authority

• The Browser Company is creating a simpler, AI-powered browser for mainstream users.
• The new browser will have a more familiar interface than Arc and will feature more AI integration.
• Arc will not be discontinued and will still get updates.

---

The Browser Company, known for its innovative Arc browser, is shifting its focus. Arc may be popular with power users but hasn’t achieved mainstream adoption, with its complexity thought to be the main barrier to entry. To address this, the company has now revealed its plans for a new and simpler browser.

Speaking to The Verge and outlining plans in a YouTube video, CEO Josh Miller acknowledged that while Arc’s unique features, like its sidebar and customization options, have gained a loyal following, it has proven too different for the broader audience.

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Switching phone carriers: How hard is it, and can you keep your existing phone?

Let’s be honest; sometimes, change can seem overwhelming. That’s true even for something as simple as switching phone service. The good news is switching cell phone carriers doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, we explain how to switch your phone carrier while keeping your number, as well as what you’ll need to know before jumping in.

How hard is it to switch carriers?

Switching phone carriers doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, the process can sometimes be done in as little as a few minutes, depending on your phone. That said, there are many things you’ll want to consider, such as porting an existing number, keeping your existing phone, and more.

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Let’s be honest; sometimes, change can seem overwhelming. That’s true even for something as simple as switching phone service. The good news is switching cell phone carriers doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, we explain how to switch your phone carrier while keeping your number, as well as what you’ll need to know before jumping in.

How hard is it to switch carriers?

Switching phone carriers doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, the process can sometimes be done in as little as a few minutes, depending on your phone. That said, there are many things you’ll want to consider, such as porting an existing number, keeping your existing phone, and more.

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Samsung One UI 7 shows signs of progress in latest video hands-on

• Samsung’s been making progress on One UI 7, and this video reveals a new BXJE build.
• We get a look at UI tweaks like a new pill-shaped battery icon and charging indicator.
• The public release of One UI 7 is still not due until 2025.

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Samsung is taking its sweet time in getting Android 15 ready for its Galaxy devices, and we’re not expecting the company to finally release its One UI 7 update until next year. And although we’re set to get access to a new One UI beta program at some point, Samsung has yet to share any real details on when that will happen. Despite these setbacks, we’ve already gotten some brief hands-on time with the in-development software, checking it out at SDC last month. Now we’re circling back for another look, thanks to the publication of a new hands-on video.

When we got our One UI 7 sneak peek earlier this month, we knew we were looking at an early build, and there was still time for Samsung to change things. And sure enough, there are already some tweaks visible in this new video.

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• Samsung’s been making progress on One UI 7, and this video reveals a new BXJE build.
• We get a look at UI tweaks like a new pill-shaped battery icon and charging indicator.
• The public release of One UI 7 is still not due until 2025.

---

Samsung is taking its sweet time in getting Android 15 ready for its Galaxy devices, and we’re not expecting the company to finally release its One UI 7 update until next year. And although we’re set to get access to a new One UI beta program at some point, Samsung has yet to share any real details on when that will happen. Despite these setbacks, we’ve already gotten some brief hands-on time with the in-development software, checking it out at SDC last month. Now we’re circling back for another look, thanks to the publication of a new hands-on video.

When we got our One UI 7 sneak peek earlier this month, we knew we were looking at an early build, and there was still time for Samsung to change things. And sure enough, there are already some tweaks visible in this new video.

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Hiker demonstrates what NOT to do if you drop your phone between boulders

Credit: NSW Ambulance

• An Australian woman who dropped her phone in a rock crevice got trapped attempting to retrieve it.
• Matilda Campbell was left hanging upside down by her feet for seven hours before she could be rescued.
• She remained calm during the rescue but still hadn’t gotten over losing the device afterward.

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Many of us are so attached to our phones that the thought of losing them is hard to bear, but it’s never worth putting yourself in danger to save your device. A woman in Australia recently gave us a timely reminder of this earlier this month after a horrifying ordeal that left her hanging upside down in a rock crevice for seven hours.

According to reporting by ABC, 23-year-old Matilda Campbell slipped while trying to retrieve her dropped phone during a bushwalk with friends in Laguna, New South Wales. She became wedged between two large boulders and hanging by her feet.

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Credit: NSW Ambulance

• An Australian woman who dropped her phone in a rock crevice got trapped attempting to retrieve it.
• Matilda Campbell was left hanging upside down by her feet for seven hours before she could be rescued.
• She remained calm during the rescue but still hadn’t gotten over losing the device afterward.

---

Many of us are so attached to our phones that the thought of losing them is hard to bear, but it’s never worth putting yourself in danger to save your device. A woman in Australia recently gave us a timely reminder of this earlier this month after a horrifying ordeal that left her hanging upside down in a rock crevice for seven hours.

According to reporting by ABC, 23-year-old Matilda Campbell slipped while trying to retrieve her dropped phone during a bushwalk with friends in Laguna, New South Wales. She became wedged between two large boulders and hanging by her feet.

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Will it have a purpose? Here’s what I hope to see from Apple’s rumored smart display

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

Smart displays have been around for years now, but the product category hasn’t seen the same level of momentum as smart speakers and security cameras. Apple may be hoping to change that, at least if recent rumors prove true. A recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman claims the company plans to tackle the smart home market in a bigger way with the introduction of several new products, including a home accessory widely speculated to be an Apple Smart Home Display.

If Apple is indeed working on its own smart home display, there are a few things I’d like to see from such a device if it wants to succeed where its contemporaries haven’t. Below is my wishlist and everything we currently know about the rumored display.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

Smart displays have been around for years now, but the product category hasn’t seen the same level of momentum as smart speakers and security cameras. Apple may be hoping to change that, at least if recent rumors prove true. A recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman claims the company plans to tackle the smart home market in a bigger way with the introduction of several new products, including a home accessory widely speculated to be an Apple Smart Home Display.

If Apple is indeed working on its own smart home display, there are a few things I’d like to see from such a device if it wants to succeed where its contemporaries haven’t. Below is my wishlist and everything we currently know about the rumored display.

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Fake user reviews are now banned in the US

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Back in August, the FTC introduced a new rule that aims to end fake customer reviews.
• FTC chair Lina Khan has announced that the new rule has now gone into effect.
• People can now report to the FTC if they believe one of the rules has been broken.

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If you’re someone who always reads customer reviews before buying a product, you’ll be happy to know that those reviews should become more trustworthy soon. New legislation aimed at putting an end to fake customer reviews has now gone into effect.

Back in August, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a new rule that would make it illegal to create, buy, or sell false reviews. With the legislation in place, the FTC would have the power to impose civil penalties on those who knowingly break these rules. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), FTC chair Lina Khan announced that the rule is now active. Along with the announcement, Khan also shared an email address consumers can use to report violations to the FTC.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Back in August, the FTC introduced a new rule that aims to end fake customer reviews.
• FTC chair Lina Khan has announced that the new rule has now gone into effect.
• People can now report to the FTC if they believe one of the rules has been broken.

---

If you’re someone who always reads customer reviews before buying a product, you’ll be happy to know that those reviews should become more trustworthy soon. New legislation aimed at putting an end to fake customer reviews has now gone into effect.

Back in August, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a new rule that would make it illegal to create, buy, or sell false reviews. With the legislation in place, the FTC would have the power to impose civil penalties on those who knowingly break these rules. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), FTC chair Lina Khan announced that the rule is now active. Along with the announcement, Khan also shared an email address consumers can use to report violations to the FTC.

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Deal: Get ready for Halloween with this Jack Skellington Shell and Echo Dot bundle

Credit: Amazon

Halloween is one of America’s favorite holidays, and it’s coming up really soon. We know many of you are getting your decorations ready, and here’s a look at the coolest tech Halloween bundle we’ve seen so far. Amazon has partnered with Disney to create the Jack Skellington Shell, and you can get it bundled with an Amazon Echo Dot for just $62.98. That’s a $27 discount on the total price you would pay if you got both products separately.

Get an Amazon Echo Dot and Jack Skellington Shell for just $62.99

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Credit: Amazon

Halloween is one of America’s favorite holidays, and it’s coming up really soon. We know many of you are getting your decorations ready, and here’s a look at the coolest tech Halloween bundle we’ve seen so far. Amazon has partnered with Disney to create the Jack Skellington Shell, and you can get it bundled with an Amazon Echo Dot for just $62.98. That’s a $27 discount on the total price you would pay if you got both products separately.

Get an Amazon Echo Dot and Jack Skellington Shell for just $62.99

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OnePlus 13 rumors: Everything we know so far and what we want to see

Update: October 21, 2024 (03:24 AM ET): We’ve updated the OnePlus 13 rumor hub with official images and an official video showing off the phone. We’ve also added a confirmed launch date and more info regarding the phone’s design and specs.

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Original article: April 24, 2024 (5:17 AM ET): The OnePlus 12 launched globally back in January, but we’ve already seen some OnePlus 13 leaks and rumors start to trickle in. So, what do we know about the upcoming flagship phone? Read on to find out all the major details and leaks we’ve managed to gather.

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Update: October 21, 2024 (03:24 AM ET): We’ve updated the OnePlus 13 rumor hub with official images and an official video showing off the phone. We’ve also added a confirmed launch date and more info regarding the phone’s design and specs.

---

Original article: April 24, 2024 (5:17 AM ET): The OnePlus 12 launched globally back in January, but we’ve already seen some OnePlus 13 leaks and rumors start to trickle in. So, what do we know about the upcoming flagship phone? Read on to find out all the major details and leaks we’ve managed to gather.

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Take a look at the OnePlus 13 from every angle in this official video

• OnePlus has posted a video which reveals the OnePlus 13’s design.
• The video also confirms an October 31 launch date in China.

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There’s been no shortage of OnePlus 13 rumors in the last few months, and OnePlus itself has also been teasing the phone in recent weeks. Now, the company has revealed a launch date and extensively showed off the phone’s design.

OnePlus posted a video on Weibo (mirrored above) that showed the phone from various angles. The clip confirms a circular rear camera housing (say goodbye to the OnePlus 12‘s toilet-shaped housing), Hasselblad branding, flat edges, and an alert slider.

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• OnePlus has posted a video which reveals the OnePlus 13’s design.
• The video also confirms an October 31 launch date in China.

---

There’s been no shortage of OnePlus 13 rumors in the last few months, and OnePlus itself has also been teasing the phone in recent weeks. Now, the company has revealed a launch date and extensively showed off the phone’s design.

OnePlus posted a video on Weibo (mirrored above) that showed the phone from various angles. The clip confirms a circular rear camera housing (say goodbye to the OnePlus 12‘s toilet-shaped housing), Hasselblad branding, flat edges, and an alert slider.

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Samsung unveils Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition: A sleeker, more powerful foldable

Credit: Samsung

• Samsung has launched the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition in South Korea.
• The phone is thinner and lighter, get’s an upgraded 200MP camera, and features a stripped pattern metal/glass design.
• There is no word on the international availability of the phone.

---

After months of leaks and rumors, Samsung has finally announced the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition. Launching officially on October 25 in South Korea, this new model boasts a slim profile, powerful hardware, and a reworked design.

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Credit: Samsung

• Samsung has launched the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition in South Korea.
• The phone is thinner and lighter, get’s an upgraded 200MP camera, and features a stripped pattern metal/glass design.
• There is no word on the international availability of the phone.

---

After months of leaks and rumors, Samsung has finally announced the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition. Launching officially on October 25 in South Korea, this new model boasts a slim profile, powerful hardware, and a reworked design.

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OnePlus 13 makes a surprise debut at an eSports event

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

• Gamers were seen using the unreleased OnePlus 13 at a recent event in China.
• Images from the event showcase the device in three colorways: black, blue, and white.
• OnePlus has already opened pre-orders for the phone in China, but the company hasn’t announced a launch date.

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OnePlus has officially opened pre-orders for the OnePlus 13 in China and shared a teaser giving us a glimpse of its updated back panel design. But you don’t have to wait until the launch to get a better look at the phone, as it has already been spotted in the wild.

Users on the Chinese social media platform Weibo shared images from the Peacekeeper Elite 2024 event earlier today (via Notebookcheck), revealing participants using the unreleased OnePlus 13. The photos showcase the device in three colorways, including the black variant we saw in a recent leak, a dual-tone variant with a blue back panel and a white camera island, and a white variant with a silver frame.

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Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

• Gamers were seen using the unreleased OnePlus 13 at a recent event in China.
• Images from the event showcase the device in three colorways: black, blue, and white.
• OnePlus has already opened pre-orders for the phone in China, but the company hasn’t announced a launch date.

---

OnePlus has officially opened pre-orders for the OnePlus 13 in China and shared a teaser giving us a glimpse of its updated back panel design. But you don’t have to wait until the launch to get a better look at the phone, as it has already been spotted in the wild.

Users on the Chinese social media platform Weibo shared images from the Peacekeeper Elite 2024 event earlier today (via Notebookcheck), revealing participants using the unreleased OnePlus 13. The photos showcase the device in three colorways, including the black variant we saw in a recent leak, a dual-tone variant with a blue back panel and a white camera island, and a white variant with a silver frame.

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The eight tech products that changed my life

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Every week that I’ve worked at Android Authority, I’ve interacted with at least one new tech product. It might have been an Android smartphone, a fitness tracker, a smartwatch, a tablet, an app, or even something way off the beaten path, like stackable light-up cubes. Some of these tech products have been good, and some have been bad. A select few have been great. But an even more select few — the absolute cream of the crop — were life-changing.

It doesn’t happen often, but every once in a while, a product comes along that completely changes how I live my life. Products in this category have become so integral to my day-to-day existence that I can’t imagine what my life would be like without them. In this article, I’m going to talk about eight of them.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Every week that I’ve worked at Android Authority, I’ve interacted with at least one new tech product. It might have been an Android smartphone, a fitness tracker, a smartwatch, a tablet, an app, or even something way off the beaten path, like stackable light-up cubes. Some of these tech products have been good, and some have been bad. A select few have been great. But an even more select few — the absolute cream of the crop — were life-changing.

It doesn’t happen often, but every once in a while, a product comes along that completely changes how I live my life. Products in this category have become so integral to my day-to-day existence that I can’t imagine what my life would be like without them. In this article, I’m going to talk about eight of them.

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With flagship features in tow, the Eureka E20 Plus is the ideal fit for most households

Credit: Eureka

Robot vacuums have gone from unique, luxury products to must-haves for busy households. Only a few years ago, you’d get simple vacuums that you would have to follow around to make sure they didn’t get stuck while spending hours cleaning the device itself. Now, with powerful base stations and incredibly feature-packed self-cleaning systems, you can go months before needing any manual intervention. The innovation and advancements in this space are almost exponential, and that’s never been more evident than with the new Eureka E20 Plus robot vacuum and mop combo.

Its predecessor, the 2023 Eureka E10s, was an impressive device and among the first to come with a unique, bagless base station. So, the fact that E20 Plus is a significant improvement across nearly every aspect, from cleaning performance to obstacle avoidance, is telling. If you’re looking for one of the best robot vacuums you can get, the Eureka E20 Plus is one for you. Here’s what you need to know.

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Credit: Eureka

Robot vacuums have gone from unique, luxury products to must-haves for busy households. Only a few years ago, you’d get simple vacuums that you would have to follow around to make sure they didn’t get stuck while spending hours cleaning the device itself. Now, with powerful base stations and incredibly feature-packed self-cleaning systems, you can go months before needing any manual intervention. The innovation and advancements in this space are almost exponential, and that’s never been more evident than with the new Eureka E20 Plus robot vacuum and mop combo.

Its predecessor, the 2023 Eureka E10s, was an impressive device and among the first to come with a unique, bagless base station. So, the fact that E20 Plus is a significant improvement across nearly every aspect, from cleaning performance to obstacle avoidance, is telling. If you’re looking for one of the best robot vacuums you can get, the Eureka E20 Plus is one for you. Here’s what you need to know.

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AJDI TECHNOLOGY #Sponsors Video #advertising

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Google TV Streamer’s home panel is now widely available on older devices

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Google TV Streamer’s home panel is now widely available on older Chromecast and Google TV devices.
• The home panel gives you access to smart home controls from your TV’s quick settings panels.
• It lets you control lights, thermostats, cameras, locks, plugs, other TVs, and speakers and even supports notifications from Nest doorbells.

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Google is gradually rolling out all the new features it debuted with the Google TV Streamer to older Chromecast and Google TV devices. The AI-generated screensaver feature reached users earlier this month, and now, the Google Home panel is rolling out widely.

The new Google Home panel on Google TV gives you access to smart home device controls, allowing you to dim the lights, adjust the thermostat, or check your security cameras without reaching for your phone. The panel also offers notifications for your smart doorbell and lets you control locks, plugs, other TVs, and speakers.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Google TV Streamer’s home panel is now widely available on older Chromecast and Google TV devices.
• The home panel gives you access to smart home controls from your TV’s quick settings panels.
• It lets you control lights, thermostats, cameras, locks, plugs, other TVs, and speakers and even supports notifications from Nest doorbells.

---

Google is gradually rolling out all the new features it debuted with the Google TV Streamer to older Chromecast and Google TV devices. The AI-generated screensaver feature reached users earlier this month, and now, the Google Home panel is rolling out widely.

The new Google Home panel on Google TV gives you access to smart home device controls, allowing you to dim the lights, adjust the thermostat, or check your security cameras without reaching for your phone. The panel also offers notifications for your smart doorbell and lets you control locks, plugs, other TVs, and speakers.

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Android 15 has satellite messaging support. So why can’t you use it?

Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

• With the launch of Android 15 earlier this week, Google officially brought satellite messaging support to the operating system.
• However, the feature is not active, and there are still many questions about how it will eventually work.
• Google has given Android Authority a few statements that shed a bit more light on the situation — but we still lack full clarity.

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Earlier this week, Google launched the stable Android 15 update for Pixel smartphones. In its press release, which was distributed to the media before the launch, it had a single sentence about what is probably the most significant addition to the operating system: satellite messaging support. That single sentence is here:

Carrier messaging apps can use satellite connectivity to send and receive messages without a mobile or Wi-Fi connection.

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Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

• With the launch of Android 15 earlier this week, Google officially brought satellite messaging support to the operating system.
• However, the feature is not active, and there are still many questions about how it will eventually work.
• Google has given Android Authority a few statements that shed a bit more light on the situation — but we still lack full clarity.

---

Earlier this week, Google launched the stable Android 15 update for Pixel smartphones. In its press release, which was distributed to the media before the launch, it had a single sentence about what is probably the most significant addition to the operating system: satellite messaging support. That single sentence is here:

Carrier messaging apps can use satellite connectivity to send and receive messages without a mobile or Wi-Fi connection.

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T-Mobile vs US Mobile: US Mobile can use all three networks, but does Tmo still stand stronger?

T-Mobile has quickly become a dominant force in the mobile world, though it is far from your only choice. Not only are there two other major networks, but there are also plenty of smaller carriers that run on T-Mobile’s network. Then there’s US Mobile, which stands out on its own, thanks to its new status as the so-called “super carrier.”

US Mobile is the only prepaid carrier that can switch between all three major networks. While the process isn’t necessarily instantaneous, it can be very helpful and grants the carrier a level of flexibility unseen elsewhere. So, how does US Mobile compare to T-Mobile? Good question. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at US Mobile vs T-Mobile.

Plan	Cost	Talk & Text	Data	Extras
Unlimited Flex	$210 for 12 months ($17.50 per month)	Unlimited talk and text	10GB Premium Data	5GB hotspot data International calling within the US
Unlimited Starter	$25 a month OR $270 for 12 months ($22.50 per month)	Unlimited talk and text	35GB Premium Data	10GB hotpsot data International calling within the US 1GB international data
Unlimited Premium	$44 a month $390 for 12 months ($32.50 per month)	Unlimited talk and text	100GB Premium Data	50GB hotspot data International calling and texting 10GB international data
Essentials Saver	Prices per line, plus taxes and fees: $50 for one line $40 for two lines $33.33 for three lines	Unlimited talk and text	Unlimited 5G & 4G LTE with 50 of Premium Data	Unlimited 3G hotspot SD streaming
Essentials	Prices per line, plus taxes/fees: $60 for one line $45 for two lines $30 for three lines $26.25 for four lines $24 for five lines $100/month for Essentials 4 Line Offer - better deal if you sign up for all four lines at once.	Unlimited talk and text	Yes, but might slow down during congestion after 50GB per month	Unlimited 3G hotspot SD streaming
Go5G	Prices per line (taxes/fees included): $75 for one line $65 for two lines $51.67 for three lines $45 for four lines $41 for five lines	Unlimited talk and text	Yes, but might slow down during congestion after 100GB per month	10GB premium hotspot data SD streaming Apple TV Plus subscription
Go5G Plus	Prices per line (taxes/fees included): $90 for one line $75 for two lines $61.67 for three lines $55 for four lines $51 for five lines	Unlimited talk and text	Yes, but might slow down during congestion after 100GB per month	50GB premium hotspot data Up to 4K UHD streaming Apple TV Plus subscription Netflix Standard with Ads
Go5G Next	Prices per line (taxes/fees included): $100 for one line $85 for two lines $71.67 for three lines $65 for four lines $61 for five lines	Unlimited talk and text	Unlimited Premium 5G & 4G LTE	50GB premium hotspot data Up to 4K UHD streaming Apple TV Plus subscription Netflix Standard with Ads

Did one of these options catch your eye? Click on either link below to learn more about the network or to make the switch:

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T-Mobile has quickly become a dominant force in the mobile world, though it is far from your only choice. Not only are there two other major networks, but there are also plenty of smaller carriers that run on T-Mobile’s network. Then there’s US Mobile, which stands out on its own, thanks to its new status as the so-called “super carrier.”

US Mobile is the only prepaid carrier that can switch between all three major networks. While the process isn’t necessarily instantaneous, it can be very helpful and grants the carrier a level of flexibility unseen elsewhere. So, how does US Mobile compare to T-Mobile? Good question. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at US Mobile vs T-Mobile.

Plan	Cost	Talk & Text	Data	Extras
Unlimited Flex	$210 for 12 months ($17.50 per month)	Unlimited talk and text	10GB Premium Data	5GB hotspot data International calling within the US
Unlimited Starter	$25 a month OR $270 for 12 months ($22.50 per month)	Unlimited talk and text	35GB Premium Data	10GB hotpsot data International calling within the US 1GB international data
Unlimited Premium	$44 a month $390 for 12 months ($32.50 per month)	Unlimited talk and text	100GB Premium Data	50GB hotspot data International calling and texting 10GB international data
Essentials Saver	Prices per line, plus taxes and fees: $50 for one line $40 for two lines $33.33 for three lines	Unlimited talk and text	Unlimited 5G & 4G LTE with 50 of Premium Data	Unlimited 3G hotspot SD streaming
Essentials	Prices per line, plus taxes/fees: $60 for one line $45 for two lines $30 for three lines $26.25 for four lines $24 for five lines $100/month for Essentials 4 Line Offer - better deal if you sign up for all four lines at once.	Unlimited talk and text	Yes, but might slow down during congestion after 50GB per month	Unlimited 3G hotspot SD streaming
Go5G	Prices per line (taxes/fees included): $75 for one line $65 for two lines $51.67 for three lines $45 for four lines $41 for five lines	Unlimited talk and text	Yes, but might slow down during congestion after 100GB per month	10GB premium hotspot data SD streaming Apple TV Plus subscription
Go5G Plus	Prices per line (taxes/fees included): $90 for one line $75 for two lines $61.67 for three lines $55 for four lines $51 for five lines	Unlimited talk and text	Yes, but might slow down during congestion after 100GB per month	50GB premium hotspot data Up to 4K UHD streaming Apple TV Plus subscription Netflix Standard with Ads
Go5G Next	Prices per line (taxes/fees included): $100 for one line $85 for two lines $71.67 for three lines $65 for four lines $61 for five lines	Unlimited talk and text	Unlimited Premium 5G & 4G LTE	50GB premium hotspot data Up to 4K UHD streaming Apple TV Plus subscription Netflix Standard with Ads

Did one of these options catch your eye? Click on either link below to learn more about the network or to make the switch:

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