GoKawiil
Tech News
Google's latest Android distribution figures show Android 17 running on only 0.9% of devices worldwide, while Android 16 leads with 25.4% share and Android 15 holds 14.7%. Older versions remain widespread, with Android 13 still on 11.8% of devices and Android 12 on 9.6%. By contrast, StatCounter data cited shows roughly 15% of Apple mobile users on iOS 27 and nearly half on iOS 26.
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.
Users running Android 10 on phones like the Galaxy Note 9, Galaxy S9, and Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact are reporting in-car warnings that their devices will soon lose Android Auto support. The messages appear during wired connections and state the phone cannot update to the Android version Android Auto will require going forward. Google has not announced any change, and its support pages still list Android 9 Pie as the minimum for wired Android Auto.
Chinese startup Xteink is following up its compact X4 e-reader with the Xteink S4, a 4.3-inch E-Ink device that ditches the previous proprietary Linux OS for Android 11. This change lets users sideload apps like Kindle, Kobo, and KOReader instead of being limited to DRM-free EPUB files. The S4 also bumps up specs with 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, and a 1,400mAh battery, more than double the X4's 650mAh cell.
Google's Android Auto works on nearly any Android device released since 2018 running Android 9 or newer, with the app built into the OS starting with Android 10. Phones on Android 9 must download it manually from the Play Store, and it only functions over a wired USB connection to a supported vehicle, of which Google says there are now more than 500 models.