A teardown of Android Auto version 18.1.164344-release.daily by Android Authority uncovered new strings indicating a 'Remember this choice' feature for contacts with multiple saved numbers. The strings also show a message confirming when a default number has been set, which users could reportedly change by selecting the contact again. Google has not confirmed the feature publicly, and it is not yet available to users.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-26
Google's new screenless Fitbit Air is being compared against Whoop's band lineup, with Whoop's newer 5.0 and MG models rated for 14+ days of battery versus up to seven days for Fitbit Air. Both offer companion apps with AI assistants for logging meals and building workout plans, but Whoop requires a paid membership to function while Fitbit Air can be used without a subscription for basic tracking. Whoop membership pricing starts around $149 for the first year, rising to $199 annually or $25 monthly, while Fitbit Air includes a three-month Google Health Premium trial.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-26
iPhone's Measure app uses the camera to scan surroundings, letting users tap to mark two points and get an instant length reading, or automatically detect rectangular objects' dimensions. It also includes a Level tool for checking if surfaces are flat or comparing the angles of two different surfaces.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-25
Meta's smart glasses listen continuously for the "Hey Meta" wake phrase when voice activation is on, and in the US users can no longer stop Meta from storing recordings of their AI voice interactions in the cloud. Users can manually delete these recordings or turn off "Hey Meta" entirely via the Meta AI app's preferences, though the touchpad still activates the assistant and microphones still work for calls and video.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-25
AirTags use a standard CR2032 coin cell battery that typically lasts a year or more, though heavy use of features can shorten that to a few months. Users can check battery status via the Items tab in Find My, which shows an orange icon only when a replacement is needed. Replacing the battery involves twisting off the steel back cover and swapping in a new cell with the positive side up.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-24
Flipcorder is a new iOS app that mimics an old camcorder, saving all recorded footage to a single virtual tape capable of holding up to 30 minutes, captured in 20-second increments. It supports VHS and MiniDV-style filters as well as high-quality video, and is optimized for the iPhone Duo's dual displays. The app costs a one-time $4.99 on the App Store and requires iOS 26 or later.
9to5mac.com
· 2026-10-24
Google has made Gemini Notebook, formerly known as NotebookLM, available as a Connected App within the Gemini chatbot. Users can type @Gemini Notebook or use natural prompts to create, edit, and manage notebooks, add or remove sources, and pull answers from notebook content without leaving the chat. The feature is rolling out to Workspace customers, Workspace Individual subscribers, and personal Google account users.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-24
A Cybersecurity Awareness Week report explains that while Apple's App Tracking Transparency, Hide My Email, and iCloud Private Relay limit future tracking, they do not remove personal information already collected by data brokers over the years. It details how brokers compile sensitive details like addresses, phone numbers, and family connections from app and website permissions, then resell them largely without regulation.
9to5mac.com
· 2026-10-24
Apple's new foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, starts at $2,000 and lets users fold the device into a tent-like stand. A columnist reports that while many mainstream iOS apps still render poorly on the Duo's unfolding screen, some developers have begun building apps specifically optimized for its foldable design.
techcrunch.com
· 2026-10-24
Ring doorbell and camera owners can use Live View and Two-Way Talk features for free, without paying for a subscription plan. These free features let users see and speak to visitors, monitor pets or children, and check on packages or activity around the home in real time.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-24
Reports note that closing background apps on an iPhone does not meaningfully extend battery life, contrary to common belief. Instead, settings such as disabling Background App Refresh and restricting apps' location access to only when in use are presented as more effective ways to conserve power.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-24
Developers have begun releasing apps designed around the iPhone Duo's folding hinge and dual screens, with Apple adding a 'Made for iPhone Duo' badge to highlight ones built for the larger display. Examples include Battlefleet Duo, a board-game-style naval battler that uses tabletop mode for local multiplayer, and Flipcorder, a retro camcorder app that turns opening the device into 'removing the lens cap.' A reviewer who has covered Android foldables for years says their inbox has seen an unusual surge of pitches from indie developers eager to showcase apps for Apple's first foldable phone.
wired.com
· 2026-10-24
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