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An Android Authority writer describes switching from Samsung's built-in Edge Panels to a free third-party app called Panels, which adds a customizable sidebar launcher accessible via a swipe from the screen's edge. The sidebar includes three swipeable sections for apps, shortcuts like contacts and quick settings, and interactive widgets, with the option to add more pages as needed.
Belkin introduced three new SoundForm audio products at IFA Berlin, all featuring active noise cancellation at lower price points than typical. The lineup includes the $59.99 SoundForm Isolate Buds with up to 45dB of noise cancellation and a secure wing-tip design, the $39.99 SoundForm Dot ANC earbuds, and the $49.99 SoundForm Play ANC headphones aimed at children with a volume limiter and focus-oriented soundscapes.
Anthropic has updated Claude so it can perform computer-use tasks in the background while users keep working on the same machine. If Claude must take over the screen entirely, it asks permission once per session and waits until the user stops typing before grabbing keyboard control. The feature is in beta for Pro and Max subscribers on the Mac Claude app, enabled via Settings > General > Computer use.
Google has introduced a new feature in Google Vids called 'Docs to Video,' which lets users convert PDFs, Google Docs, and Word files into narrated video summaries. The tool generates a script from the document's content, adds AI voiceover, and pairs it with AI-generated images and backgrounds, with options to edit the script or change the narrator's voice.
A Reddit user reported that their Google Home assistant began calling them 'Fish Lemon' after a casual conversation about cooking fish weeks earlier. The nickname has persisted across reminders, smart display labels, and direct queries about their name, resisting attempts to correct it despite their Google Account showing their real name.
Google has rolled out a Google Home app update that lets Gemini for Home handle voice requests that mix media playback and smart device controls in a single command, such as turning off lights while stopping music. The update also fixes previously reported bugs with setting alarms and adding items to Google Keep, and it now alphabetizes automation options while enforcing privacy settings on third-party routines.
Amazon is selling Samsung's newly launched Galaxy Z Flip 8 for $1,049.99, a $150 cut from its $1,199.99 list price. The clamshell foldable features a slimmer build, a 6.7-inch inner screen, a larger 4.1-inch FlexWindow with added AI capabilities, Samsung DeX support, and a 4,300mAh battery.
Android Authority published its latest Wallpaper Wednesday collection, offering six reader-submitted images and three staff photos as free downloadable wallpapers for phones, tablets, and PCs. The images are provided in JPG and PNG formats in both landscape and portrait orientations, with full-resolution versions available via a shared Drive link.
Android Authority found a new Customize option in Google Photos version 7.90.0 that lets users drag and rearrange folders like On This Device, Places, and People & Pets within the Collections tab. The tool also allows hiding certain albums entirely, though the recently added pinned section can only be hidden, not reordered.
YouTube has rolled out a companion feature that syncs its mobile app with whatever video is playing on a TV, as long as both devices are signed into the same account. Users can comment, subscribe, search, or browse Shorts on their phone without interrupting the video on screen, and can send videos to the TV directly. The two devices don't even need to share the same Wi-Fi network.
Google's My Pixel app, previously called Pixel Tips, has been sending push notifications to owners of older Pixel phones promoting the new Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch 5, often without users opting in. Android Authority polled over 9,600 readers on whether smartphone advertising has gone too far, and 93.9% said yes.
Acer introduced the EP130K, an ePaper monitor aimed at professionals and readers who spend long hours in front of screens. It offers up to 3,200 x 2,400 resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate, switchable color and black-and-white modes, touch and stylus support, and can hold an image without drawing power. The device connects and charges via a single USB-C cable, though Acer has not disclosed its screen size or internal chipset.