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Google patches actively exploited Pixel modem zero-day in September update

Google's September 2026 security bulletin fixes 110 vulnerabilities in Pixel devices, including a high-severity flaw (CVE-2026-58704) in the Cellular Modem component that is being exploited in limited, targeted attacks. The bug stems from a logic error that lets an attacker on an adjacent network bypass permissions and escalate privileges without user interaction. The update, rolling out at patch level 2026-09-05, also addresses 12 critical remote code execution bugs and 89 privilege escalation issues.

Users can manually update Android Auto through the Play Store

Because Android Auto ships as a regular Play Store app rather than a system component, it normally updates automatically in the background, but that process can stall if a phone lacks Wi-Fi access or auto-update settings are disabled. Users can check their version by searching for Android Auto in the Play Store, where an Uninstall button confirms they already have the latest release, or an Update button lets them install it manually. Devices need Android 9.0 or later, released in 2018, to receive current updates.

Boox Palma 3 e-reader adds stylus support, aluminum design, Android 16

Boox has unveiled the Palma 3, an update to its smartphone-sized black-and-white e-reader line, priced at $339.99, roughly $60 more than the 2024 Palma 2. The device keeps the same 6.13-inch E Ink Carta display but adds an anodized aluminum frame with a fiberglass back, runs Android 16, and now supports Boox's InkSense Plus stylus, sold separately for an extra $46.

Google Rolls Out September Pixel Feature Drop With Android 17 QPR1

Google has released its September Pixel Drop update, bringing the Android 17 QPR1 build to the stable channel for supported Pixel devices. The update package includes several additional features alongside the core software upgrade.

Google to unveil first Googlebooks at October 5 New York event

Google announced an 'Opening Night' event in New York on October 5 to formally showcase its first Googlebook laptops, which run an Android-based version of ChromeOS. The event follows the September 21 pre-order launch and will feature interactive displays along with the debut of the first laptop built for Gemini Intelligence. Partners including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo are manufacturing the devices, which include a lid light called a 'glowbar.'

GM restores CarPlay, Android Auto via new splitscreen dashboard in 2027 trucks

General Motors is reversing course on plans to drop Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, instead building a new infotainment interface that runs them alongside native vehicle gauges in a splitscreen layout. The system debuts in the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, which feature roughly 60 inches of combined screen space including a passenger video display, and will later expand to other GM models. GM says it collaborated directly with Apple and Google to design the shared-screen experience.

Google rolls out lock-screen IMEI display via Play Services update

Google is rolling out a Play Services update that lets a phone's IMEI number appear in emergency info accessible from the lock screen, without unlocking the device. The feature targets devices running Android 12 or newer and is meant to help identify a phone's owner if it's lost or found. Users can disable it through Settings under Security & Privacy, Lost Device Protection, and Theft Protection.

Guide details warning signs and removal steps for Android spyware

Security researchers outline how spyware on Android phones can be spotted through symptoms like sudden battery drain, overheating, unexplained data usage, unfamiliar apps, or apps unexpectedly requesting camera and microphone access. Infections most often occur through phishing links or sideloaded apps outside the Play Store, though rogue apps occasionally slip past Google Play Protect too.

Volvo triples plug-in hybrid battery capacity in refreshed XC60 and XC90 for 2028

Volvo has unveiled updated versions of its XC60 and three-row XC90 SUVs, featuring subtle exterior tweaks like reworked Thor's Hammer headlights with hidden matrix LED projectors and a slimmer front grille. The bigger change is under the skin: a significantly larger lithium-ion battery pack for the plug-in hybrid T8 powertrain, which Volvo says more than doubles real-world electric-only range compared to the current model. Both SUVs also gain a new 11.2-inch infotainment system running Google's Gemini assistant for conversational voice control.

Google opens Googlebook laptop pre-orders on September 21

Google has told sign-up subscribers and posted on its Googlebook website that pre-orders for its new Android-based ChromeOS laptop line will begin September 21 at 9AM ET. Partners including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo are building models, with Gemini AI features like the 'Magic Pointer' and custom widget generation built in.

Amazon cuts TCL TAB 10 Gen 4 price to $169.99

Amazon has discounted the TCL TAB 10 Gen 4, a 10.1-inch Android tablet, by 15% off its retail price, bringing it down to $169.99. The price cut positions the device as an affordable option in the budget tablet segment.

iMazing offers 20% discount ahead of major update adding Android support

iMazing, the Mac and PC utility for managing iPhone and iPad data, is running a 20% discount for 9to5Mac readers ahead of a major upcoming release. That update will mark the tool's first step toward supporting Android devices, expanding beyond its Apple-only roots. Since iMazing 3 launched in 2024, the app has added features like Apple Watch support, spyware detection, screen recording, and enhanced Messages and WhatsApp export tools.