One UI 7 lets you choose if you want your notifications and Quick Settings separated

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• The One UI 7 beta will let Galaxy users pick between “Separate” and “Together” for the notifications and Quick Settings view.
• Separate keeps the two panels apart, while Together combines them into one.

---

Before the One UI 7 beta rolled out, there were a few leaks that provided some insight into what changes the Android 15 skin could bring. One of the leaks claimed it could give users the option to separate or unify dropdown menus for notifications and quick settings. It looks like this leak was correct as you can now merge the two or have them appear individually.

How Samsung has handled notifications and Quick Settings has been a point of contention for Galaxy owners. Creating separate panels for each is considered to be inconvenient and less intuitive by many. But now Samsung is giving its customers a choice on how they want these panels to appear.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

• The One UI 7 beta will let Galaxy users pick between “Separate” and “Together” for the notifications and Quick Settings view.
• Separate keeps the two panels apart, while Together combines them into one.

---

Before the One UI 7 beta rolled out, there were a few leaks that provided some insight into what changes the Android 15 skin could bring. One of the leaks claimed it could give users the option to separate or unify dropdown menus for notifications and quick settings. It looks like this leak was correct as you can now merge the two or have them appear individually.

How Samsung has handled notifications and Quick Settings has been a point of contention for Galaxy owners. Creating separate panels for each is considered to be inconvenient and less intuitive by many. But now Samsung is giving its customers a choice on how they want these panels to appear.

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra deal: The best ANC headphones drop to all-time low price

Credit: Bose via Amazon

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra broke to a new record-low price during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but the deal disappeared soon after. Well, it’s back! You can get the Bose QuietComfort Ultra for just $299 again, but only if you’re OK with getting the Diamond 60th Anniversary Edition.

Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Diamond 60th Anniversary Edition for just $299

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Credit: Bose via Amazon

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra broke to a new record-low price during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but the deal disappeared soon after. Well, it’s back! You can get the Bose QuietComfort Ultra for just $299 again, but only if you’re OK with getting the Diamond 60th Anniversary Edition.

Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Diamond 60th Anniversary Edition for just $299

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Google Search will now help you escape the echo chamber of personalized results

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google Search has added a new “try without personalization” toggle in search result pages.
• This will allow users to instantly turn off personalized results and see more objective search results.
• This feature can be useful for unbiased research, comparing options, or exploring topics without tailored filters.

---

Google Search is known for its ability to adapt to users’ preferences, offering tailored results that often feel like they understand you better than you understand yourself. Whether it’s completing your queries, recognizing your interests, or offering location-based suggestions, the personalization in Google Search can be a powerful tool. But sometimes, personalization isn’t what you want.

Researchers, journalists, or individuals seeking unbiased perspectives might prefer a neutral search experience. Similarly, consumers comparing products or exploring contentious topics might find that personalized results narrow their view instead of broadening it.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google Search has added a new “try without personalization” toggle in search result pages.
• This will allow users to instantly turn off personalized results and see more objective search results.
• This feature can be useful for unbiased research, comparing options, or exploring topics without tailored filters.

---

Google Search is known for its ability to adapt to users’ preferences, offering tailored results that often feel like they understand you better than you understand yourself. Whether it’s completing your queries, recognizing your interests, or offering location-based suggestions, the personalization in Google Search can be a powerful tool. But sometimes, personalization isn’t what you want.

Researchers, journalists, or individuals seeking unbiased perspectives might prefer a neutral search experience. Similarly, consumers comparing products or exploring contentious topics might find that personalized results narrow their view instead of broadening it.

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Google officially extends update schedules for Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel Fold

• Google has officially added two additional years of update commitments to the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel Fold.
• That means the Pixel 6 will see support until Android 17, and the Pixel 7 and Pixel Fold will see Android 18.
• Notably, the Google Pixel 6 series should already be done with updates.

---

When Google launched the Pixel 8 series in 2023, it surprised us all by confirming that the phones would get a whopping seven years of software support. That meant seven Android upgrades, 28 Pixel Drops, and 84 security patches. This commitment continued with the Pixel 9 series launched earlier this year.

Unfortunately, that meant the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold would be stuck with the older three-year commitment. Notably, that meant Android 15 would be the final upgrade for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. However, today, Google quietly updated its support page to show that the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold will now get an additional two years of updates!

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• Google has officially added two additional years of update commitments to the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel Fold.
• That means the Pixel 6 will see support until Android 17, and the Pixel 7 and Pixel Fold will see Android 18.
• Notably, the Google Pixel 6 series should already be done with updates.

---

When Google launched the Pixel 8 series in 2023, it surprised us all by confirming that the phones would get a whopping seven years of software support. That meant seven Android upgrades, 28 Pixel Drops, and 84 security patches. This commitment continued with the Pixel 9 series launched earlier this year.

Unfortunately, that meant the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold would be stuck with the older three-year commitment. Notably, that meant Android 15 would be the final upgrade for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. However, today, Google quietly updated its support page to show that the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold will now get an additional two years of updates!

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Native PDF support is coming to Chrome for Android, and you can try it now

• Google Chrome for Android will soon finally open PDF files on its own without the need for a third-party app.
• You can search through PDFs or annotate them before saving them to Google Drive.
• This functionality is currently locked behind a flag but will be available on Android 12 and later when it launches.

---

A lot of online documents are saved as PDFs, which means it’s important that you install a good PDF reader app so you can open them. There are a lot of options out there, though, and some Android devices even come with more than one of them preinstalled, making things confusing for regular users. These apps were necessary because Android hasn’t had a good native PDF reader until recently.

Although Android finally added a native PDF reader with its latest release, it’s up to apps to utilize it. Files by Google was one of the first apps to adopt Android’s native PDF reader, and it’s looking like Google Chrome will be next. Back in February, Chrome expert Leopeva64 spotted a flag that allows the browser to open PDFs “inline,” i.e. without exiting the app, but it didn’t work at the time. X user Trischand notified us that the feature is now working, and we’ve confirmed this in our own testing.

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• Google Chrome for Android will soon finally open PDF files on its own without the need for a third-party app.
• You can search through PDFs or annotate them before saving them to Google Drive.
• This functionality is currently locked behind a flag but will be available on Android 12 and later when it launches.

---

A lot of online documents are saved as PDFs, which means it’s important that you install a good PDF reader app so you can open them. There are a lot of options out there, though, and some Android devices even come with more than one of them preinstalled, making things confusing for regular users. These apps were necessary because Android hasn’t had a good native PDF reader until recently.

Although Android finally added a native PDF reader with its latest release, it’s up to apps to utilize it. Files by Google was one of the first apps to adopt Android’s native PDF reader, and it’s looking like Google Chrome will be next. Back in February, Chrome expert Leopeva64 spotted a flag that allows the browser to open PDFs “inline,” i.e. without exiting the app, but it didn’t work at the time. X user Trischand notified us that the feature is now working, and we’ve confirmed this in our own testing.

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Spotify Wrapped made me miss the radio this year

I’ve never been a big fan of the radio. In fact, I’ve had Spotify Premium for years to avoid listening to commercials and lame jokes to start my day — ironic, given the state of most podcasts. And yet, there’s something about the 2024 edition of Spotify Wrapped that made me — or at least a small part of me — miss the feeling of listening to the radio. It brought back some unpredictability that I’d lost while carefully curating playlist after playlist, and it might have sold me on Spotify’s use of AI. Here’s why.

Don’t worry, Wrapped hasn’t (really) changed

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I’ve never been a big fan of the radio. In fact, I’ve had Spotify Premium for years to avoid listening to commercials and lame jokes to start my day — ironic, given the state of most podcasts. And yet, there’s something about the 2024 edition of Spotify Wrapped that made me — or at least a small part of me — miss the feeling of listening to the radio. It brought back some unpredictability that I’d lost while carefully curating playlist after playlist, and it might have sold me on Spotify’s use of AI. Here’s why.

Don’t worry, Wrapped hasn’t (really) changed

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Streaming is becoming a little more like cable with always-on HBO channels for Max

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Warner Bros. Discovery is bringing always-on channels to Max in a new test.
• Those included in the test will see always-on channels that mirror content from live HBO channels.
• This test will set the ground for Max to experiment with curated or themed channels.

---

For those who don’t know what they want to watch next or just want something on in the background, Max may have a solution. The streaming platform is introducing always-on channels in a new test.

Today, Warner Bros. Discovery (via The Verge) announced it is beginning tests that add always-on channels to Max. These 24/7 feeds will mirror content from WBD’s live HBO channels, including HBO, HBO 2, HBO Comedy, HBO Signature, and HBO Zone.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Warner Bros. Discovery is bringing always-on channels to Max in a new test.
• Those included in the test will see always-on channels that mirror content from live HBO channels.
• This test will set the ground for Max to experiment with curated or themed channels.

---

For those who don’t know what they want to watch next or just want something on in the background, Max may have a solution. The streaming platform is introducing always-on channels in a new test.

Today, Warner Bros. Discovery (via The Verge) announced it is beginning tests that add always-on channels to Max. These 24/7 feeds will mirror content from WBD’s live HBO channels, including HBO, HBO 2, HBO Comedy, HBO Signature, and HBO Zone.

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Google gives redesigning the Messages text box yet another try

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is introducing a new design for the text field in Messages.
• The redesign moves the plus, emoji, Magic Compose, and gallery buttons back into the text field.
• The Voice Memo button sits in its own bubble off to the right.

---

No matter how many changes Google makes to the Messages app, it can’t seem to settle on a design for the text field. After dropping the previous redesign a few months ago, the company is now back with a new look for the pill-shaped box.

Currently, when you look at the bottom of a chat in Google Messages, you’ll see buttons for the “plus” menu, gallery, and Magic Compose off to the left. On the right, you’ll see the text box with emoji and Voice Memo buttons on the right side. It appears Google is preparing to change this layout to something else.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google is introducing a new design for the text field in Messages.
• The redesign moves the plus, emoji, Magic Compose, and gallery buttons back into the text field.
• The Voice Memo button sits in its own bubble off to the right.

---

No matter how many changes Google makes to the Messages app, it can’t seem to settle on a design for the text field. After dropping the previous redesign a few months ago, the company is now back with a new look for the pill-shaped box.

Currently, when you look at the bottom of a chat in Google Messages, you’ll see buttons for the “plus” menu, gallery, and Magic Compose off to the left. On the right, you’ll see the text box with emoji and Voice Memo buttons on the right side. It appears Google is preparing to change this layout to something else.

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32 years ago today, personal communication changed forever

• The first SMS text message was sent on December 3, 1992.
• Part of an early Vodafone test, the message was sent from a computer to a GSM handset on the carrier’s network.
• That first text read: “Merry Christmas.”

---

Right now, text messaging is better than it’s ever been. Don’t get us wrong — there’s still ample room for improvement — but with RCS really coming into its own, especially in terms of iOS RCS adoption, the state of the communication landscape today is a vast improvement over what it looked like just a few years back. We’re thinking about this momentum in particular today because of the significance of the date, as we celebrate the anniversary of the first text message ever sent.

In the early ’90s, cell phones were just starting to flirt with the idea of going digital, and the very first GSM networks entered testing. Beyond just supporting digital voice calls, these networks allowed devices to begin communicating with each other by sending small text strings — this was the beginning of the Short Message Service, or SMS. And on December 3, 1992, the first SMS text alert popped up on the screen of a cell phone. This was still so early that we wouldn’t even get an audible “ding” with an incoming text for another year.

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• The first SMS text message was sent on December 3, 1992.
• Part of an early Vodafone test, the message was sent from a computer to a GSM handset on the carrier’s network.
• That first text read: “Merry Christmas.”

---

Right now, text messaging is better than it’s ever been. Don’t get us wrong — there’s still ample room for improvement — but with RCS really coming into its own, especially in terms of iOS RCS adoption, the state of the communication landscape today is a vast improvement over what it looked like just a few years back. We’re thinking about this momentum in particular today because of the significance of the date, as we celebrate the anniversary of the first text message ever sent.

In the early ’90s, cell phones were just starting to flirt with the idea of going digital, and the very first GSM networks entered testing. Beyond just supporting digital voice calls, these networks allowed devices to begin communicating with each other by sending small text strings — this was the beginning of the Short Message Service, or SMS. And on December 3, 1992, the first SMS text alert popped up on the screen of a cell phone. This was still so early that we wouldn’t even get an audible “ding” with an incoming text for another year.

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Google’s Recorder app could be getting the upgrade users have been waiting for (APK Teardown)

Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

• Code from the latest Google Recorder app suggests a “Clear Voice” feature is in the works.
• This new feature will reduce background noise and prioritize human speech in recordings.
• It could be limited to mono recordings and might not work with external microphones.

---

Google’s Recorder app has consistently been regarded as one of the best voice recording apps on smartphones. Despite its sophisticated AI-powered transcriptions and speaker labeling features, the app has lacked a capability that many other voice recorders already offer: noise cancellation. However, it seems this gap might soon be addressed.

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Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

• Code from the latest Google Recorder app suggests a “Clear Voice” feature is in the works.
• This new feature will reduce background noise and prioritize human speech in recordings.
• It could be limited to mono recordings and might not work with external microphones.

---

Google’s Recorder app has consistently been regarded as one of the best voice recording apps on smartphones. Despite its sophisticated AI-powered transcriptions and speaker labeling features, the app has lacked a capability that many other voice recorders already offer: noise cancellation. However, it seems this gap might soon be addressed.

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Google enhances Maps on Android Auto with reports from Waze

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• The Google Maps app on Android Auto now shows reports from Waze drivers.
• The Maps mobile app also recently gained this functionality.
• This Waze integration appears to be gradually rolling out.

---

Back in July, Google revealed it would begin incorporating reporting data from Waze into Maps. Just a few days ago, we reported that users are starting to see reports sourced from Waze in the Maps mobile app. Now the Maps app on Android Auto is also displaying information from Waze.

Google is leveraging data from Waze to boost the incident reporting feature in Maps. Reports are clearly marked under the report type with text that reads “From Waze drivers,” so you know where that report came from. This functionality was first seen in the mobile app, but Threads user Alex Mullis shared that he recently spotted the Waze integration in Android Auto.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• The Google Maps app on Android Auto now shows reports from Waze drivers.
• The Maps mobile app also recently gained this functionality.
• This Waze integration appears to be gradually rolling out.

---

Back in July, Google revealed it would begin incorporating reporting data from Waze into Maps. Just a few days ago, we reported that users are starting to see reports sourced from Waze in the Maps mobile app. Now the Maps app on Android Auto is also displaying information from Waze.

Google is leveraging data from Waze to boost the incident reporting feature in Maps. Reports are clearly marked under the report type with text that reads “From Waze drivers,” so you know where that report came from. This functionality was first seen in the mobile app, but Threads user Alex Mullis shared that he recently spotted the Waze integration in Android Auto.

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Gemini could soon let you turn PDFs into podcasts (APK teardown)

• NotebookLM’s Audio Overviews could soon be coming to Gemini on your phone.
• Audio Overviews will generate spoken “podcasts” where hosts discuss the information in your documents.
• Gemini could start suggesting this option when you submit a document as input.

---

If you feel like AI is constantly being oversold, you’re not alone, and while it’s easy to appreciate stuff like the output you see people share from AI image generators, a lot of us are still looking for the AI tool that’s really going to transform our lives. Google’s introduced tons of AI tools over the course of the past year, but one of the most powerful — and one that more people could stand to learn about — is NotebookLM, a tool for summarizing sources and organizing notes. Now one of NotebookLM’s most interesting features could be getting ready to come to Gemini on Android.

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• NotebookLM’s Audio Overviews could soon be coming to Gemini on your phone.
• Audio Overviews will generate spoken “podcasts” where hosts discuss the information in your documents.
• Gemini could start suggesting this option when you submit a document as input.

---

If you feel like AI is constantly being oversold, you’re not alone, and while it’s easy to appreciate stuff like the output you see people share from AI image generators, a lot of us are still looking for the AI tool that’s really going to transform our lives. Google’s introduced tons of AI tools over the course of the past year, but one of the most powerful — and one that more people could stand to learn about — is NotebookLM, a tool for summarizing sources and organizing notes. Now one of NotebookLM’s most interesting features could be getting ready to come to Gemini on Android.

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Apple’s privacy promise doesn’t extend to its own employees, lawsuit claims

Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority

• An Apple employee has filed a lawsuit against the company for allegedly spying on workers through their personal iCloud accounts.
• The lawsuit claims Apple forces employees to merge their personal and professional digital lives, giving the company access to private information on their devices.
• Apple denies the claims, stating that employees have the right to discuss their working conditions and that it strongly disagrees with the lawsuit’s allegations.

---

Apple, the tech giant that has built its reputation on safeguarding customer privacy, is now facing a lawsuit that claims its own employees aren’t getting the same treatment. Amar Bhakta, an employee in Apple’s advertising technology division, has accused the company of prying into workers’ personal lives through iCloud accounts and non-work devices. (h/t: Semafor)

Filed in California state court this past Sunday, Bhakta’s lawsuit alleges that Apple expects its employees to give up their privacy as part of the job. The company, he claims, reserves the right to monitor workers through video, physical surveillance, and electronic tracking — even when they’re off the clock or no longer working at Apple. The lawsuit also mentions that Apple discouraged him from public speaking about his field of expertise and even forced him to sanitize his LinkedIn profile to remove references to his role.

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Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority

• An Apple employee has filed a lawsuit against the company for allegedly spying on workers through their personal iCloud accounts.
• The lawsuit claims Apple forces employees to merge their personal and professional digital lives, giving the company access to private information on their devices.
• Apple denies the claims, stating that employees have the right to discuss their working conditions and that it strongly disagrees with the lawsuit’s allegations.

---

Apple, the tech giant that has built its reputation on safeguarding customer privacy, is now facing a lawsuit that claims its own employees aren’t getting the same treatment. Amar Bhakta, an employee in Apple’s advertising technology division, has accused the company of prying into workers’ personal lives through iCloud accounts and non-work devices. (h/t: Semafor)

Filed in California state court this past Sunday, Bhakta’s lawsuit alleges that Apple expects its employees to give up their privacy as part of the job. The company, he claims, reserves the right to monitor workers through video, physical surveillance, and electronic tracking — even when they’re off the clock or no longer working at Apple. The lawsuit also mentions that Apple discouraged him from public speaking about his field of expertise and even forced him to sanitize his LinkedIn profile to remove references to his role.

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Fitbit bug is making it almost impossible to navigate the app properly

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Users of the Fitbit app claim an issue is cutting off the UI at the top of the screen on several pages.
• It’s believed the problem started after the rollout of Android 15.
• The issue appears to be affecting not just Pixel devices.

---

Google officially rolled out Android 15 back in the middle of October. The new version of the OS brought a plethora of features to Android devices, but it also appears it may have negatively impacted the Fitbit app and users are still waiting for a fix.

On Fitbit’s community forum, a large number of users are reporting that they are experiencing an issue with the app. The issue in question causes the top part of the screen to be cut off, making it impossible to read or access certain UI elements. For example, some users claim they are unable to add custom food entries to the nutritional database or navigate to the previous week on the graph.

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

• Users of the Fitbit app claim an issue is cutting off the UI at the top of the screen on several pages.
• It’s believed the problem started after the rollout of Android 15.
• The issue appears to be affecting not just Pixel devices.

---

Google officially rolled out Android 15 back in the middle of October. The new version of the OS brought a plethora of features to Android devices, but it also appears it may have negatively impacted the Fitbit app and users are still waiting for a fix.

On Fitbit’s community forum, a large number of users are reporting that they are experiencing an issue with the app. The issue in question causes the top part of the screen to be cut off, making it impossible to read or access certain UI elements. For example, some users claim they are unable to add custom food entries to the nutritional database or navigate to the previous week on the graph.

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AT&T’s new Internet Backup will keep you online when fiber goes down

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• AT&T has announced its new Internet Backup feature, rolling out next week to fiber customers.
• The feature uses AT&T’s wireless network to keep eligible fiber users online during outages
• Customers won’t need any extra hardware or pay additional fees to use the backup service.

---

AT&T is set to launch a new feature that aims to eliminate internet downtime for its Fiber customers. This feature, called Internet Backup, will allow AT&T Fiber customers with an eligible AT&T unlimited postpaid wireless plan to stay connected to the Internet even during fiber network disruptions.

Starting next week, AT&T will roll out this feature to customers using its AT&T BGW320 gateways. If there’s ever a disruption in your fiber connection, Internet Backup seamlessly switches to AT&T’s wireless network. Once your fiber is back up, your home Internet should automatically switch back to fiber — no need to fiddle with settings or call customer service.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• AT&T has announced its new Internet Backup feature, rolling out next week to fiber customers.
• The feature uses AT&T’s wireless network to keep eligible fiber users online during outages
• Customers won’t need any extra hardware or pay additional fees to use the backup service.

---

AT&T is set to launch a new feature that aims to eliminate internet downtime for its Fiber customers. This feature, called Internet Backup, will allow AT&T Fiber customers with an eligible AT&T unlimited postpaid wireless plan to stay connected to the Internet even during fiber network disruptions.

Starting next week, AT&T will roll out this feature to customers using its AT&T BGW320 gateways. If there’s ever a disruption in your fiber connection, Internet Backup seamlessly switches to AT&T’s wireless network. Once your fiber is back up, your home Internet should automatically switch back to fiber — no need to fiddle with settings or call customer service.

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Google Translate could offer a richer, seamless Instant Translate experience (Updated: Rolling out)

Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

• Google Translate could soon let you access extra options within the Instant Translation preview, removing the need to go back a page to access these options.
• The app could also soon let you undo a deleted translation entry in your translation history.
• Update: The feature is now rolling out to all users.

---

Update, December 2, 2024 (01:20 AM ET): The richer Instant Translation preview in Google Translate is rolling out with version v8.22.46.698958551.3. All users can now enjoy a better Google Translate experience.

---

Original article, October 22, 2024 (07:46 AM ET): Google Translate is one of the best free apps around, simply because it works so well across so many languages. It’s pretty impressive what Google has achieved with this app, with features like Live Translate practically turning your smartphone into a mobile interpreter. Google also has an Instant Translate feature that instantly translates text as you type, and the company could further upgrade this feature for a richer, more seamless experience.

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Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

• Google Translate could soon let you access extra options within the Instant Translation preview, removing the need to go back a page to access these options.
• The app could also soon let you undo a deleted translation entry in your translation history.
• Update: The feature is now rolling out to all users.

---

Update, December 2, 2024 (01:20 AM ET): The richer Instant Translation preview in Google Translate is rolling out with version v8.22.46.698958551.3. All users can now enjoy a better Google Translate experience.

---

Original article, October 22, 2024 (07:46 AM ET): Google Translate is one of the best free apps around, simply because it works so well across so many languages. It’s pretty impressive what Google has achieved with this app, with features like Live Translate practically turning your smartphone into a mobile interpreter. Google also has an Instant Translate feature that instantly translates text as you type, and the company could further upgrade this feature for a richer, more seamless experience.

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YouTube TV for Android picks up a controversial design change from the main YouTube app

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• YouTube TV is reportedly getting a new mini-player on the Android app.
• The design docks a floating PiP mini-player at the bottom of the app’s screen.
• The mini-player matches the controversial one that Google adopted for the main YouTube app earlier this year.

---

YouTube TV for Android is borrowing the controversial picture-in-picture mini-player from the main YouTube app. Previously, the mini-player was docked at the bottom of the app, just like the primary YouTube app, which is now switching back to the old-school design.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• YouTube TV is reportedly getting a new mini-player on the Android app.
• The design docks a floating PiP mini-player at the bottom of the app’s screen.
• The mini-player matches the controversial one that Google adopted for the main YouTube app earlier this year.

---

YouTube TV for Android is borrowing the controversial picture-in-picture mini-player from the main YouTube app. Previously, the mini-player was docked at the bottom of the app, just like the primary YouTube app, which is now switching back to the old-school design.

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Leak suggests an 8,000mAh Android flagship might be in the works for 2025

Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority

• A trusted tipster suggests Realme is exploring multiple battery configurations for its next-generation flagship phone.
• The most ambitious option under consideration features a massive 8,000mAh battery.
• This could potentially debut with the Realme GT8 Pro, expected to launch in 2025.

---

While the 2025 Android flagship season has yet to commence in the United States, several leading manufacturers have already launched their latest devices in China and other global markets. Among these are the Realme GT7 Pro, OPPO Find X8 Pro, and iQOO 13, all of which not only debut next-gen flagship chipsets but also pack some of the largest batteries ever seen in flagship devices.

To put this into perspective, the Chinese Realme GT7 Pro boasts a mammoth 6,500mAh battery. The iQOO 13 isn’t far behind with a 6,150mAh powerhouse, while OPPO’s Find X8 Pro rounds out the pack with a respectable 5,910mAh cell. For comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max packs a 4,685mAh cell and Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series peaks at 5,000mAh.

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Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority

• A trusted tipster suggests Realme is exploring multiple battery configurations for its next-generation flagship phone.
• The most ambitious option under consideration features a massive 8,000mAh battery.
• This could potentially debut with the Realme GT8 Pro, expected to launch in 2025.

---

While the 2025 Android flagship season has yet to commence in the United States, several leading manufacturers have already launched their latest devices in China and other global markets. Among these are the Realme GT7 Pro, OPPO Find X8 Pro, and iQOO 13, all of which not only debut next-gen flagship chipsets but also pack some of the largest batteries ever seen in flagship devices.

To put this into perspective, the Chinese Realme GT7 Pro boasts a mammoth 6,500mAh battery. The iQOO 13 isn’t far behind with a 6,150mAh powerhouse, while OPPO’s Find X8 Pro rounds out the pack with a respectable 5,910mAh cell. For comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max packs a 4,685mAh cell and Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series peaks at 5,000mAh.

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Google Maps is getting some help from Waze to warn you about road hazards

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• Google Maps users are now seeing police reports sourced from Waze drivers directly within the app.
• These alerts are clearly attributed to “Waze drivers” and include a prompt to confirm if the reported incident is still present.
• This new feature is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to improve incident reporting in Google Maps.

---

Google Maps is getting a helpful boost from its crowdsourced sibling, Waze. As promised earlier this year, Google Maps has started to incorporate incident reports from Waze users directly into its navigation interface. This means that while you’re cruising along, Google Maps might now warn you about upcoming speed traps, accidents, or other hazards reported by Waze users. (h/t: 9to5Google)

Reddit user Truckin_18 recently spotted the new feature in action. While navigating with Google Maps, they were alerted to a “Police reported ahead” notification. A bottom sheet displayed the alert, clearly attributing it to “Waze drivers.” To keep you focused on the road, the alert includes a prominent “Are they still there?” question with big “Yes” and “No” buttons for quick feedback, and it disappears automatically after a short time.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

• Google Maps users are now seeing police reports sourced from Waze drivers directly within the app.
• These alerts are clearly attributed to “Waze drivers” and include a prompt to confirm if the reported incident is still present.
• This new feature is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to improve incident reporting in Google Maps.

---

Google Maps is getting a helpful boost from its crowdsourced sibling, Waze. As promised earlier this year, Google Maps has started to incorporate incident reports from Waze users directly into its navigation interface. This means that while you’re cruising along, Google Maps might now warn you about upcoming speed traps, accidents, or other hazards reported by Waze users. (h/t: 9to5Google)

Reddit user Truckin_18 recently spotted the new feature in action. While navigating with Google Maps, they were alerted to a “Police reported ahead” notification. A bottom sheet displayed the alert, clearly attributing it to “Waze drivers.” To keep you focused on the road, the alert includes a prominent “Are they still there?” question with big “Yes” and “No” buttons for quick feedback, and it disappears automatically after a short time.

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Should phones be banned from schools? No, the reality is more complicated than that

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

While the US government hasn’t done much at the federal level to ban or limit smartphones in schools, many schools have developed policies or enacted bans of their own. A few states have even passed some form of school phone ban, including California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, and a few others. The extent to which these bans limit use varies from state to state. As a father of three, including one teenager, I actually support the idea of phone bans in schools — but only to a point.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

While the US government hasn’t done much at the federal level to ban or limit smartphones in schools, many schools have developed policies or enacted bans of their own. A few states have even passed some form of school phone ban, including California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, and a few others. The extent to which these bans limit use varies from state to state. As a father of three, including one teenager, I actually support the idea of phone bans in schools — but only to a point.

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I tested two of the new 2024 Kindles, and this is the one you absolutely should buy

I’ve owned a few Amazon Kindle devices over the years. Generally, each one is the same: a small e-ink tablet with the most basic of features needed to buy an e-book and then read it. Sure, I know you can do a lot more with a Kindle, like listen to audiobooks, browse the web, and even play games, but come on: I would use my Android phone for any of those things. Because I treat a Kindle as a way to look at text and nothing else, I’ve never thought much about upgrading from my current Kindle Paperwhite 4 from 2018.

However, I had the chance to try out two of the 2024 Kindle models — the 2024 Amazon Kindle (11th gen) and the 2024 Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6 (12th gen) — and I have changed my mind. At this point, pretty much every Kindle owner should upgrade this year by splurging on the newest Paperwhite.

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I’ve owned a few Amazon Kindle devices over the years. Generally, each one is the same: a small e-ink tablet with the most basic of features needed to buy an e-book and then read it. Sure, I know you can do a lot more with a Kindle, like listen to audiobooks, browse the web, and even play games, but come on: I would use my Android phone for any of those things. Because I treat a Kindle as a way to look at text and nothing else, I’ve never thought much about upgrading from my current Kindle Paperwhite 4 from 2018.

However, I had the chance to try out two of the 2024 Kindle models — the 2024 Amazon Kindle (11th gen) and the 2024 Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 6 (12th gen) — and I have changed my mind. At this point, pretty much every Kindle owner should upgrade this year by splurging on the newest Paperwhite.

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A mysterious glitch is causing Garmin watches to crash; here’s what’s happening

Credit: Garmin

• Many Garmin users have reported frequent watch face crashes, showing an “IQ!” logo with an orange exclamation mark.
• The issue seems tied to a bug in Garmin’s Connect IQ platform and could have been triggered by recent firmware updates.
• Garmin has acknowledged the problem and is investigating, but there is no clear timeline for a permanent fix yet.

---

If you’ve invested in one of Garmin’s feature-packed smartwatches, you likely expected years of smooth sailing. However, over the past few months, many Garmin users have found themselves dealing with a perplexing issue — random crashes that leave their watch faces frozen, displaying an ominous “IQ!” logo with an orange exclamation point.

First reported by Tech-Issues Today, this problem has been quietly plaguing users for months, but reports suggest it’s spreading to even more Garmin models. And it’s not just one or two devices — this bug has been spotted on popular models like the Venu 3, Forerunner 965, Fenix 7, and others.

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Credit: Garmin

• Many Garmin users have reported frequent watch face crashes, showing an “IQ!” logo with an orange exclamation mark.
• The issue seems tied to a bug in Garmin’s Connect IQ platform and could have been triggered by recent firmware updates.
• Garmin has acknowledged the problem and is investigating, but there is no clear timeline for a permanent fix yet.

---

If you’ve invested in one of Garmin’s feature-packed smartwatches, you likely expected years of smooth sailing. However, over the past few months, many Garmin users have found themselves dealing with a perplexing issue — random crashes that leave their watch faces frozen, displaying an ominous “IQ!” logo with an orange exclamation point.

First reported by Tech-Issues Today, this problem has been quietly plaguing users for months, but reports suggest it’s spreading to even more Garmin models. And it’s not just one or two devices — this bug has been spotted on popular models like the Venu 3, Forerunner 965, Fenix 7, and others.

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Goodbye DeX, Samsung reveals the fate of the Windows app

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

• The One UI 7 rollout will mark the end of a fan-favorite feature.
• Samsung warns that it will be discontinuing DeX for PC on Windows OS.
• Users will still be able to connect their mobile device to their PC through Link to Windows.

---

One UI 7’s features have largely been a mystery, but leaks have helped shed light on some of the things we can expect when it rolls out. Most recently, Samsung’s Spanish website spilled some of the beans, showing off new icons, a smart notification center, and a new lock screen. Meanwhile, Samsung UK shared a surprising, yet not unexpected, update on the DeX app for PC on Windows.

If you’re unfamiliar with Samsung DeX, it’s an app that allows Galaxy owners to open a separate window on their PC to access their device’s screen. Through this feature, the user can seamlessly move files between the two devices. The name DeX is derived from “Desktop eXperience.”

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Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

• The One UI 7 rollout will mark the end of a fan-favorite feature.
• Samsung warns that it will be discontinuing DeX for PC on Windows OS.
• Users will still be able to connect their mobile device to their PC through Link to Windows.

---

One UI 7’s features have largely been a mystery, but leaks have helped shed light on some of the things we can expect when it rolls out. Most recently, Samsung’s Spanish website spilled some of the beans, showing off new icons, a smart notification center, and a new lock screen. Meanwhile, Samsung UK shared a surprising, yet not unexpected, update on the DeX app for PC on Windows.

If you’re unfamiliar with Samsung DeX, it’s an app that allows Galaxy owners to open a separate window on their PC to access their device’s screen. Through this feature, the user can seamlessly move files between the two devices. The name DeX is derived from “Desktop eXperience.”

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The best new streaming movies this week: Blitz and more

We’re back with a brand new list for the week. It’s going to be fun — grab a cup of coffee!

The best new streaming movies this week

• Blitz
• Bread & Roses
• Firebrand
• The Good Half
• Joy
• The Piano Lesson

Blitz – November 22, Apple TV Plus

• Release date: November 1, 2024 
• Genre: Action, Drama, History
• Rating: PG-13
• Director: Steve McQueen
• Cast: Elliott Heffernan, Saoirse Ronan, Harris Dickinson, Benjamin Clémentine, Kathy Burke, Paul Weller, Stephen Graham

Set in 1940 London during WWII, the film follows Rita, a single mother to a biracial boy named George. When George is evacuated to the countryside for safety, he boldly leaps from the train and journeys back to London to find his mother.

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We’re back with a brand new list for the week. It’s going to be fun — grab a cup of coffee!

The best new streaming movies this week

• Blitz
• Bread & Roses
• Firebrand
• The Good Half
• Joy
• The Piano Lesson

Blitz – November 22, Apple TV Plus

• Release date: November 1, 2024 
• Genre: Action, Drama, History
• Rating: PG-13
• Director: Steve McQueen
• Cast: Elliott Heffernan, Saoirse Ronan, Harris Dickinson, Benjamin Clémentine, Kathy Burke, Paul Weller, Stephen Graham

Set in 1940 London during WWII, the film follows Rita, a single mother to a biracial boy named George. When George is evacuated to the countryside for safety, he boldly leaps from the train and journeys back to London to find his mother.

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The Roku Black Friday sale includes 59% savings on the Roku Outdoor Camera

Credit: Amazon

Roku has joined the Black Friday party, and it’s not holding back. From streaming to smart home, all manner of flagship Roku devices are subject to huge markdowns, including the Roku Outdoor Camera. The home security gadget is almost 60% off on Amazon right now, dropping it to just $19.99.

Roku Outdoor Camera for $19.99 ($39 off)

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Credit: Amazon

Roku has joined the Black Friday party, and it’s not holding back. From streaming to smart home, all manner of flagship Roku devices are subject to huge markdowns, including the Roku Outdoor Camera. The home security gadget is almost 60% off on Amazon right now, dropping it to just $19.99.

Roku Outdoor Camera for $19.99 ($39 off)

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Samsung makes a sneaky Galaxy Tab S10 FE reference, hidden in the fine print

• Earlier this year, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus and S10 Ultra, but no S10 FE models.
• When those two S10 tablets launched, Samsung put up a webpage advertising the special offers for which they’re eligible.
• Sometime around the start of October, that page was updated to include reference to the “Tab S10 FE series.”

---

Everyone’s thinking about holiday shopping right now, with Black Friday right around the corner. While smartphones can be a little tricky to give as a gift, something like a tablet can make a lot more sense — and there are some great Android tablets to consider this year. Those include Samsung’s new Galaxy Tab S10 series, which debuted back at the end of September. This year’s lineup was a little meager, though, with only Plus and Ultra size options, and while it’s still not looking like we’re ever going to get a base model Tab S10, a recent discovery has us looking forward to what could be Samsung’s next tablet.

Like plenty of device manufacturers, Samsung runs a bunch of promotions that shoppers buying its hardware can redeem — discounts, free trials, that sort of stuff. The company shows all that off on its Tab S10 offers page, and there’s unsurprisingly a ton of legal fine print down at the bottom (via Neowin). And you don’t have to read too far at all into that text before a very interesting name pops up:

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• Earlier this year, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus and S10 Ultra, but no S10 FE models.
• When those two S10 tablets launched, Samsung put up a webpage advertising the special offers for which they’re eligible.
• Sometime around the start of October, that page was updated to include reference to the “Tab S10 FE series.”

---

Everyone’s thinking about holiday shopping right now, with Black Friday right around the corner. While smartphones can be a little tricky to give as a gift, something like a tablet can make a lot more sense — and there are some great Android tablets to consider this year. Those include Samsung’s new Galaxy Tab S10 series, which debuted back at the end of September. This year’s lineup was a little meager, though, with only Plus and Ultra size options, and while it’s still not looking like we’re ever going to get a base model Tab S10, a recent discovery has us looking forward to what could be Samsung’s next tablet.

Like plenty of device manufacturers, Samsung runs a bunch of promotions that shoppers buying its hardware can redeem — discounts, free trials, that sort of stuff. The company shows all that off on its Tab S10 offers page, and there’s unsurprisingly a ton of legal fine print down at the bottom (via Neowin). And you don’t have to read too far at all into that text before a very interesting name pops up:

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Galaxy S25 FCC listing confirms key specs and at least one surprising downgrade

Credit: Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority

• All three models in the Galaxy S25 series have appeared on the FCC website, confirming key specs.
• Wired charging speeds and battery capacities could remain the same as last year for all models.
• The standard Galaxy S25 might have slower 9W wireless charging, a downgrade from its predecessor’s 15W.

---

The Galaxy S25 series is expected to launch in the next few months, and as we get closer to the launch date, more and more leaks and rumors are starting to surface. Thanks to a recent appearance on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website, we now have a clearer picture of what Samsung’s 2025 flagship lineup might look like.

Spotted by 91mobiles, the listings include all three models in the Galaxy S25 series earning their certifications for a US launch. And while some of the details may feel familiar, there are a few surprises (and disappointments) hidden in the fine print.

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Credit: Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority

• All three models in the Galaxy S25 series have appeared on the FCC website, confirming key specs.
• Wired charging speeds and battery capacities could remain the same as last year for all models.
• The standard Galaxy S25 might have slower 9W wireless charging, a downgrade from its predecessor’s 15W.

---

The Galaxy S25 series is expected to launch in the next few months, and as we get closer to the launch date, more and more leaks and rumors are starting to surface. Thanks to a recent appearance on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website, we now have a clearer picture of what Samsung’s 2025 flagship lineup might look like.

Spotted by 91mobiles, the listings include all three models in the Galaxy S25 series earning their certifications for a US launch. And while some of the details may feel familiar, there are a few surprises (and disappointments) hidden in the fine print.

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Impulse-buy Peacock Black Friday deal gets you a full year of streaming for 75% off

• Peacock joins the growing list of streaming services with some killer Black Friday deals.
• This year you can pick up a monthly Peacock Premium subscription for $2 a month.
• You can save even more by going annual, with a year of Peacock Premium for $20.

---

Trying to make the most of all the great streaming services out there, and get the best bang for your buck, can be a tricky proposition. After all, so many of these providers give us multiple pricing tiers with different options: ads, no ads, 4K, and all. And even when you do think you’ve found a great deal, it’s all too often a limited-time introductory promo. This year just ahead of Black Friday we think we’ve spotted at least one streaming offer that’s priced just about right for this to practically be a no-brainer.

We’ve already checked out some phenomenal streaming offers this holiday season, like that Hulu for $1 a month (or with Disney Plus for just $3) deal that’s definitely worth a look. But if you snagged that one and are tempted to flesh out your streaming library just a tad more, take a peek at the Black Friday sale currently going on at Peacock.

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• Peacock joins the growing list of streaming services with some killer Black Friday deals.
• This year you can pick up a monthly Peacock Premium subscription for $2 a month.
• You can save even more by going annual, with a year of Peacock Premium for $20.

---

Trying to make the most of all the great streaming services out there, and get the best bang for your buck, can be a tricky proposition. After all, so many of these providers give us multiple pricing tiers with different options: ads, no ads, 4K, and all. And even when you do think you’ve found a great deal, it’s all too often a limited-time introductory promo. This year just ahead of Black Friday we think we’ve spotted at least one streaming offer that’s priced just about right for this to practically be a no-brainer.

We’ve already checked out some phenomenal streaming offers this holiday season, like that Hulu for $1 a month (or with Disney Plus for just $3) deal that’s definitely worth a look. But if you snagged that one and are tempted to flesh out your streaming library just a tad more, take a peek at the Black Friday sale currently going on at Peacock.

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New Pixel market data suggests Google’s victory lap will have to wait

Pixel 9 official case

Credit: Nick Fernandez / Android Authority

• Previous data claimed Google increased its market share in North America by almost threefold.
• New data suggests that the company’s market share had a big drop in the following days.
• However, it appears that Google has been able to regain some ground since then.

---

Earlier this month, it appeared that Google was gaining serious ground on Apple and Samsung for US market share. We were a bit skeptical of the numbers, but the data suggested positive growth by Pixel. New data now suggests that those numbers may have indeed been too good to be true.

Stat site Statcounter released some surprising statistics at the beginning of November. That data suggested Google may have nearly tripled its smartphone market share in North America between the months of September and October. Specifically, the site’s data claimed Google went from 4.6% to around 12.9%.

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Pixel 9 official case

Credit: Nick Fernandez / Android Authority

• Previous data claimed Google increased its market share in North America by almost threefold.
• New data suggests that the company’s market share had a big drop in the following days.
• However, it appears that Google has been able to regain some ground since then.

---

Earlier this month, it appeared that Google was gaining serious ground on Apple and Samsung for US market share. We were a bit skeptical of the numbers, but the data suggested positive growth by Pixel. New data now suggests that those numbers may have indeed been too good to be true.

Stat site Statcounter released some surprising statistics at the beginning of November. That data suggested Google may have nearly tripled its smartphone market share in North America between the months of September and October. Specifically, the site’s data claimed Google went from 4.6% to around 12.9%.

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Want Verizon’s best priority and speeds for less? I’ve highlighted 6 options that offer just that

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

You may be under the impression prepaid carriers always have dramatically slower speeds due to poor priority levels over the big carriers. This can certainly be true, but Verizon offers its highest priority levels to a surprising number of partner networks. In contrast, AT&T only gives its best priority to its own in-house plans. 

You’ll get the highest-priority data Verizon provides if you sign up for one of the following prepaid alternatives:

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

You may be under the impression prepaid carriers always have dramatically slower speeds due to poor priority levels over the big carriers. This can certainly be true, but Verizon offers its highest priority levels to a surprising number of partner networks. In contrast, AT&T only gives its best priority to its own in-house plans. 

You’ll get the highest-priority data Verizon provides if you sign up for one of the following prepaid alternatives:

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Gemini can now search and play your favorite Spotify tunes

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Gemini is getting a new Spotify extension to expand its music streaming options.
• The extension will allow you to search for, play, and browse music on Spotify using voice commands.
• The extension isn’t visible yet, but the official support page is live, hinting at an imminent rollout.

---

Google’s Gemini is expanding its support for extensions, allowing users to interact with more third-party apps using the voice assistant. Until now, Gemini has primarily offered a YouTube Music extension for music streaming needs, but it looks like Spotify is joining in on the fun. (via 9to5Google)

The Android Authority team reported about Gemini’s Spotify extension back in August, although it’s not yet visible in the Gemini extensions list. However, Google has released an official support page detailing how users can set it up and what to expect. This suggests the feature is on the verge of becoming publicly available.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Gemini is getting a new Spotify extension to expand its music streaming options.
• The extension will allow you to search for, play, and browse music on Spotify using voice commands.
• The extension isn’t visible yet, but the official support page is live, hinting at an imminent rollout.

---

Google’s Gemini is expanding its support for extensions, allowing users to interact with more third-party apps using the voice assistant. Until now, Gemini has primarily offered a YouTube Music extension for music streaming needs, but it looks like Spotify is joining in on the fun. (via 9to5Google)

The Android Authority team reported about Gemini’s Spotify extension back in August, although it’s not yet visible in the Gemini extensions list. However, Google has released an official support page detailing how users can set it up and what to expect. This suggests the feature is on the verge of becoming publicly available.

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Wear OS 5.1 is based on Android 15, but it’s missing a notable feature

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• Google has officially confirmed Wear OS 5.1, on which we had previously leaked information.
• Wear OS 5.1 is based on Android 15 and adopts certain characteristics of it while blocking others, such as Private Spaces.
• You can try out this new version of Wear OS in the Android emulator. It’s possible it would be available to test on the Pixel Watch family eventually, but we have no word on that yet.

---

Back in August, we showed you evidence that Google was likely working on a new version of Wear OS, its Android-based wearable operating system that powers various smartwatches, including its own line of Pixel watches. In that article, we posited the new version would be called Wear OS 5.1 and be based on the then-unreleased Android 15. Now, Google has confirmed it.

In an official developer post, Google announces Wear OS 5.1 and discusses how it might alter the behavior of certain apps due to its upgrade to Android 15. Wear OS 5, if you remember, is based on Android 14. As such, Google encourages developers to run this new version in the Android emulator to make sure their apps will work as expected.

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Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

• Google has officially confirmed Wear OS 5.1, on which we had previously leaked information.
• Wear OS 5.1 is based on Android 15 and adopts certain characteristics of it while blocking others, such as Private Spaces.
• You can try out this new version of Wear OS in the Android emulator. It’s possible it would be available to test on the Pixel Watch family eventually, but we have no word on that yet.

---

Back in August, we showed you evidence that Google was likely working on a new version of Wear OS, its Android-based wearable operating system that powers various smartwatches, including its own line of Pixel watches. In that article, we posited the new version would be called Wear OS 5.1 and be based on the then-unreleased Android 15. Now, Google has confirmed it.

In an official developer post, Google announces Wear OS 5.1 and discusses how it might alter the behavior of certain apps due to its upgrade to Android 15. Wear OS 5, if you remember, is based on Android 14. As such, Google encourages developers to run this new version in the Android emulator to make sure their apps will work as expected.

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Your Google TV is about to get a lot more entertaining, thanks to Roku

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Roku has announced a deeper integration of The Roku Channel with Google TV, making its free streaming service more accessible.
• The update allows Google TV users to search for Roku content, resume watching, and discover recommendations directly from the home screen.
• Over 500 free ad-supported streaming channels from The Roku Channel will be added to Google TV’s “Live” tab.

---

Roku is expanding its reach within the smart TV ecosystem by improving access to its free streaming platform, The Roku Channel, on Google TV. The update, rolling out in the coming weeks, will allow users to search for content from The Roku Channel directly on the Google TV home screen.

The newly-announced integration introduces several improvements aimed at making The Roku Channel a seamless part of the Google TV experience:

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Roku has announced a deeper integration of The Roku Channel with Google TV, making its free streaming service more accessible.
• The update allows Google TV users to search for Roku content, resume watching, and discover recommendations directly from the home screen.
• Over 500 free ad-supported streaming channels from The Roku Channel will be added to Google TV’s “Live” tab.

---

Roku is expanding its reach within the smart TV ecosystem by improving access to its free streaming platform, The Roku Channel, on Google TV. The update, rolling out in the coming weeks, will allow users to search for content from The Roku Channel directly on the Google TV home screen.

The newly-announced integration introduces several improvements aimed at making The Roku Channel a seamless part of the Google TV experience:

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New video shows off One UI 7’s iOS-style features and faster animations in action

Credit: Samsung

• The One UI 7 beta update, originally expected last week, is now expected in December.
• A leaked video clip shows One UI 7’s faster animations and redesigned Quick Panel in action with iOS stylings all over the place.
• One UI 7 could allow customization of quick settings, but it’s unclear if resizing and rearranging controls will be possible, like in iOS 18.

---

The One UI 7 beta update was strongly expected last week. Unfortunately, it looks like we might be in for a longer wait, with the first public beta now expected in December. The initial release is also likely to be super buggy despite Samsung taking its own sweet time to release it. However, one thing Samsung seems to have worked a lot on is the animations in One UI 7.

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Credit: Samsung

• The One UI 7 beta update, originally expected last week, is now expected in December.
• A leaked video clip shows One UI 7’s faster animations and redesigned Quick Panel in action with iOS stylings all over the place.
• One UI 7 could allow customization of quick settings, but it’s unclear if resizing and rearranging controls will be possible, like in iOS 18.

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The One UI 7 beta update was strongly expected last week. Unfortunately, it looks like we might be in for a longer wait, with the first public beta now expected in December. The initial release is also likely to be super buggy despite Samsung taking its own sweet time to release it. However, one thing Samsung seems to have worked a lot on is the animations in One UI 7.

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Google Calendar on Android finally lets you manage all your tasks directly

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google Calendar for Android now includes a full-screen view of all tasks and task lists, making it easier to manage to-dos.
• A new Tasks icon in the top right allows quick access to the Google Tasks interface.
• The feature is rolling out to Android users, with no iOS release announced yet.

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Google Calendar on Android is getting a new update that will make managing your to-dos much easier. Users will appreciate that the Calendar app on Android will finally show a full-screen view of “all their tasks and task lists” instead of only those that have a date assigned to them. The feature was added to Google Calendar on the web last year, and we spotted its mobile version in an Authority Insights APK teardown last month.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• Google Calendar for Android now includes a full-screen view of all tasks and task lists, making it easier to manage to-dos.
• A new Tasks icon in the top right allows quick access to the Google Tasks interface.
• The feature is rolling out to Android users, with no iOS release announced yet.

---

Google Calendar on Android is getting a new update that will make managing your to-dos much easier. Users will appreciate that the Calendar app on Android will finally show a full-screen view of “all their tasks and task lists” instead of only those that have a date assigned to them. The feature was added to Google Calendar on the web last year, and we spotted its mobile version in an Authority Insights APK teardown last month.

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Android Auto and Nest cameras exist, so why not a Google dash cam?

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Dash cams are fast becoming essential for every driver, recording road events in real-time for security or insurance purposes. Many firms occupy this space, but one notable absentee is Google. Dash cams intersect with several of Google’s properties, including Android Auto and Nest cameras, so it would make perfect sense for the company to join the fray.

A Google dash cam is more appealing than you’d think

Although it might not appear a suitable fit at first, Google has all the ingredients to make a compelling dash cam product. The company’s design, service backbone, and manufacturing prowess could all be put to good use in the space.

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Dash cams are fast becoming essential for every driver, recording road events in real-time for security or insurance purposes. Many firms occupy this space, but one notable absentee is Google. Dash cams intersect with several of Google’s properties, including Android Auto and Nest cameras, so it would make perfect sense for the company to join the fray.

A Google dash cam is more appealing than you’d think

Although it might not appear a suitable fit at first, Google has all the ingredients to make a compelling dash cam product. The company’s design, service backbone, and manufacturing prowess could all be put to good use in the space.

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How I boosted my productivity using a free app and two simple docs

Credit: Bogdan Petrovan / Android Authority

Like everyone else, I’m constantly looking for ways to improve my productivity.

Over the years, I’ve run through my fair share of solutions: I tried Google Keep for quick notes, Slack for real-time task reminders, Any.do for simple to-do lists, Pomodoro Chrome extensions to timebox my focus, Asana for project-level oversight, OKRs for aligning big-picture goals and objectives, and over-engineered Airtables for bigger projects with many sub-tasks.

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Credit: Bogdan Petrovan / Android Authority

Like everyone else, I’m constantly looking for ways to improve my productivity.

Over the years, I’ve run through my fair share of solutions: I tried Google Keep for quick notes, Slack for real-time task reminders, Any.do for simple to-do lists, Pomodoro Chrome extensions to timebox my focus, Asana for project-level oversight, OKRs for aligning big-picture goals and objectives, and over-engineered Airtables for bigger projects with many sub-tasks.

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Black Friday vs Prime Day: Which one offers better deals?

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

As the Deals Editor at Android Authority, I’ve spent several years scouting out more deals than most people see in a lifetime. However, it doesn’t take any expertise to work out that Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day stand apart from the other promotions as the two biggest shopping events of the year. Black Friday has long marked the official start of the holiday shopping season, but Prime Day has become a blockbuster event centered around tech deals.

While both events promise impressive discounts, they serve different purposes and audiences, and the timing of each can shape what’s on offer. Is one of them better than the other for finding the best deals? We’ll answer that question and the others you might have in this Black Friday vs Prime Day rundown.

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

As the Deals Editor at Android Authority, I’ve spent several years scouting out more deals than most people see in a lifetime. However, it doesn’t take any expertise to work out that Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day stand apart from the other promotions as the two biggest shopping events of the year. Black Friday has long marked the official start of the holiday shopping season, but Prime Day has become a blockbuster event centered around tech deals.

While both events promise impressive discounts, they serve different purposes and audiences, and the timing of each can shape what’s on offer. Is one of them better than the other for finding the best deals? We’ll answer that question and the others you might have in this Black Friday vs Prime Day rundown.

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Here’s what I’ll miss about Chrome OS once it turns into Android

I never thought the day would come, but Chrome OS has an expiration date. It’s not right around the corner — it’ll probably take a couple of years, but one day, all Chromebooks will run Android over Chrome OS so that Google can better compete with Apple.

While I can understand why Google streamlining its operating systems is probably a good thing in the long run, losing Chrome OS will come with some growing, or rather, shrinking pains. It will force Google to choose between Android and Chrome OS for the future of several useful features, and I’m nervous that some of my favorites will disappear. Here’s what I think I’ll miss when Chrome OS becomes Android.

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I never thought the day would come, but Chrome OS has an expiration date. It’s not right around the corner — it’ll probably take a couple of years, but one day, all Chromebooks will run Android over Chrome OS so that Google can better compete with Apple.

While I can understand why Google streamlining its operating systems is probably a good thing in the long run, losing Chrome OS will come with some growing, or rather, shrinking pains. It will force Google to choose between Android and Chrome OS for the future of several useful features, and I’m nervous that some of my favorites will disappear. Here’s what I think I’ll miss when Chrome OS becomes Android.

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8 features from Android skins we want on stock Android 16

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Google recently released the stable version of Android 15 to Pixel phones, but the company is already hard at work on Android 16. We already have an idea of what to expect from this new version of Android, including a revamped Do Not Disturb mode, an Advanced Protection Mode, and more.

What would I like to see from the new software, though? Well, manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO, and others have loads of cool software features that aren’t part of stock Android, so here are the ones I’d be most interested in seeing in Android 16.

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Google recently released the stable version of Android 15 to Pixel phones, but the company is already hard at work on Android 16. We already have an idea of what to expect from this new version of Android, including a revamped Do Not Disturb mode, an Advanced Protection Mode, and more.

What would I like to see from the new software, though? Well, manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO, and others have loads of cool software features that aren’t part of stock Android, so here are the ones I’d be most interested in seeing in Android 16.

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Hurry up! Only one color version of the Google Pixel 9 is still $548.98

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

There are plenty of amazing Black Friday deals already, but one of the best offers from Google we’ve seen is the Google Pixel 9 at just $548.98. While this 31% off offer applied to all color versions of the device just yesterday, right now, you can only get this lower price if you pick the Peony version, otherwise known as pink. All other color versions are either $649 or out of stock.

Buy the Google Pixel 9 in Peony for just $548.98

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

There are plenty of amazing Black Friday deals already, but one of the best offers from Google we’ve seen is the Google Pixel 9 at just $548.98. While this 31% off offer applied to all color versions of the device just yesterday, right now, you can only get this lower price if you pick the Peony version, otherwise known as pink. All other color versions are either $649 or out of stock.

Buy the Google Pixel 9 in Peony for just $548.98

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