GoKawiil
Tech News
Apple announced a new Apple Watch Activity Challenge available exclusively to users in Japan. Completing any workout of at least 30 minutes on October 10, logged through an app connected to Apple's Fitness app or through Apple Fitness+, unlocks a virtual achievement badge and exclusive Messages stickers.
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.
Apple released iOS 27.2 beta 3 to developers, a build that rolls out a redesigned Apple Music logo with a bolder typeface and lowercase 'm'. The update also contains unreleased code referencing per-app controls for Messages' suggested actions, plus Liquid Glass design changes and a new progress bar in Apple Books. A companion macOS 27.2 beta 3 includes further hints at touch-interaction support ahead of an expected touchscreen MacBook Pro.
Google unveiled EmbeddingGemma 2, a 740-million-parameter multimodal AI model built on the Gemma 4 architecture and released under an Apache 2.0 license, designed to run locally on devices like Pixel phones using minimal RAM. The company also launched Google AI Edge Foresight, a Mac app that uses the model to transcribe meetings, expand shorthand notes into polished text, and answer questions by searching local files, calendars, and Google Drive content—all processed on-device.
Apple has released the second public beta of iOS 27.2, bringing its redesigned Health app to iPhone users testing the preview. Other changes carried over from the first beta include dual capture for Group FaceTime, expanded Siri language support, Apple TV app profiles on iPhone, and renamed sections in Apple Podcasts. Apple is expected to release iOS 27.2 officially later this month.
Users report that Google Home has stopped letting them change the color of connected smart lights, whether via the Google Home app, voice commands through Nest Hub displays, or automated routines. The issue affects lights from multiple manufacturers, including Philips Hue, while turning lights on/off and adjusting brightness still work normally. Google has not publicly acknowledged the problem.
A new iOS app called Darkplug lets film photographers control their enlarger via a cheap networked smart plug instead of a dedicated darkroom timer. The app offers a red-on-black interface designed to avoid fogging photo paper, plus basic straight-print timing for free, with advanced features like F-stop timing, test strips, dodge-and-burn planning and split-grade printing available through a one-time Darkplug+ purchase.
ASOS confirmed unauthorized access to third-party platforms it uses to communicate with customers, after hackers sent rogue push notifications through the ASOS mobile app claiming to have breached its Snowflake data environment. The company says names and contact details may have been exposed, but has not verified the Snowflake compromise claim or disclosed how many customers are affected. ASOS says payment card data and account passwords do not appear to be impacted.
Samsung has introduced new watch faces for the Galaxy Watch 9, notably the Radial Dashboard, which displays extensive information in a clear layout, and the Premium Analogue, offering a traditional look with smart features. Users can select from these options via the Galaxy Wearables app or third-party sources, customizing complications to suit their preferences.
Apple has begun accepting app and game submissions tailored for the upcoming iPhone Duo, requiring developers to use Xcode 27.1. Starting April 2027, app listings must include iPhone Duo screenshots, and apps will display a badge indicating compatibility. The company also offers resources and workshops to assist developers in preparing their apps for the new device launch, which is scheduled for October 23.
Users can now add, remove, and organize widgets for CarPlay through the Settings app on their iPhone. The process involves selecting options under General > CarPlay, enabling widget display, and choosing preferred widgets from compatible apps. Additional automation features like Smart Rotate and Widget Suggestions enhance the widget experience while driving.
Samsung has announced that its latest SmartTag 3 trackers will be compatible not only with iPhones but also with a broader selection of Android smartphones running Android 12 and above. Previously limited to Galaxy models, the new trackers are now accessible to more users across different device brands. Confirmation from Samsung indicates that support extends beyond Galaxy phones, opening the product to a larger audience.