GoKawiil
Tech News
Google has issued its October 2026 Pixel update, with separate builds for the Pixel 6 and 7 series plus Fold and Tablet, the new Pixel 11 line, and Pixel 8-10 devices. The update fixes audio distortion during VoIP calls on Pixel 8-10, a virtual keyboard bug on Pixel 8-11, and incorrect photo/video orientation on Pixel 11. No fixes were specifically listed for Pixel 6 or 7 hardware.
A technical article explains how to block advertisements across an entire Android device rather than within individual apps, noting that Android has become increasingly locked down and harder to customize. It describes four DNS-based techniques that intercept ad-serving hostnames and redirect them to invalid IP addresses, which can be applied either on the device itself or via an external DNS server. The piece notes DuckDuckGo's browser blocks trackers but not ads outright, so additional measures are needed.
Code strings found in a new Google Messages beta build indicate the app will remove the ability to turn off RCS for individual conversations, forcing users back to SMS/MMS only on a conversation-by-conversation basis. The strings show an in-app banner warning that the 'Only send SMS & MMS messages' setting is going away, offering users the choice to switch to RCS now or have it switched automatically.
Google is rolling out its Email Verification origin trial to Chrome on Android, adding a 'Verified Email' option under Settings > Addresses with an auto-confirm toggle. The feature lets Chrome confirm a user's email address directly with a supporting email provider, skipping the usual verification email or one-time code, though both the site and provider must support Google's protocol.
A teardown of Android System Intelligence version C.8.playstore.pixel11.993387747 by Android Authority uncovered a string change suggesting Google may add location data as a new factor in Pixel Launcher app suggestions. Currently, the feature's settings page states suggestions are based on recently used apps, most-used apps, and routines, with no mention of location.
Google has confirmed that the 'Better Together' integration features on its new Googlebook laptops, which allow app streaming, file access, and notification mirroring with Android phones, currently only function properly with Pixel devices. Samsung phones running Android 17, including the Z Fold 8, can detect the laptops but fail to maintain a stable connection, despite Google's marketing claiming the laptops work with Android phones 'right out of the box'. Google says a software update enabling Samsung compatibility will arrive in the coming weeks.
A how-to guide explains that Android phones stop receiving security patches silently, with no on-device warning when support ends. It notes that the phone's settings only show the date of the last update received, not whether future patches are scheduled, requiring users to check manufacturer support pages or update policies separately.
Amazon cut the price of the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G to $189.98 during its Prime Day sale, down from a $284.98 list price, marking its lowest price this year. The phone includes 8GB RAM, 256GB storage expandable via microSD, a 6.8-inch 120Hz FHD+ NXTPAPER display, a 5,010mAh battery, stereo speakers, a headphone jack, and a 50MP main camera. The discount requires an active Amazon Prime membership, which new users can access via a 30-day free trial.
Android Authority surveyed 2,252 readers on whether they'd buy the upcoming OnePlus 16 if it were sold in their market. 61% said they'd buy it without question, 32% said it would depend on price, and only 7% said no. OnePlus plans to launch the phone in China this month with wider availability expected in November, after exiting the North American market.
Code found in the Android 17 QPR3 Beta 1 release references a 'Face Active Illumination' system, including settings for brightness scale and toggles governing when it can activate, such as during bedtime, driving, dark environments, or Do Not Disturb mode. The code does not specify what hardware would provide the illumination, though it appears aimed at improving face unlock performance when lighting is poor.
The Wi-Fi Alliance has certified two unreleased Sony products with model numbers CFI-Y2000 and CFI-Y2105, both running Android 15, succeeding the current PlayStation Portal's CFI-Y1001 designation. The filings show single-antenna 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi support but no 6GHz capability, and Sony has not commented on the certifications.
Amazon has reduced the XREAL xbx a01 Plus AR glasses to $254, marking the first price cut since their launch and saving buyers $45. The lightweight glasses, weighing about 62 grams, feature a bright display of approximately 1,600 nits and are designed for portable gaming, travel, and media consumption. The deal is exclusive to Amazon Prime members during Prime Day.