GoKawiil
Tech News
Google is testing a redesign for Search Live in the Google app that allows users to minimize and reposition the camera feed, reducing screen clutter. The update also removes the glow effect around the video feed and may relocate the transcript button, which has currently disappeared in beta versions. These changes aim to shift focus from the camera view to the answers provided by Search Live.
Amazon has reduced the Google Pixel Watch 5 (41mm, Wi-Fi) to $334.99, marking its first discount since launch and saving buyers $65 from the original $399.99 retail price. The smartwatch features a compact design, Wear OS, enhanced GPS, health tools, and Fitbit integration, with a 30-hour battery life and a 4.6-star rating. The deal requires Amazon Prime membership, available with a free trial.
Google is developing a redesigned settings page for its app, shifting from a list to a card-based interface that groups related options. The update aims to make key settings like search personalization and SafeSearch more prominent, improving user navigation. The new design aligns with Google's Material 3 style and is found in the latest app version, indicating a forthcoming rollout.
Meta's new AI tool, Muse, offers a conversational interface that emphasizes ease of use and personalization. Users can customize avatars and interact with the AI through a friendly chat format, aiming to reduce intimidation around AI adoption. The platform combines aesthetic appeal with functional features, making it accessible for newcomers.
Samsung has launched the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, highlighting its refined hardware, impressive inner display, and flagship Snapdragon processor. Despite its high performance and sleek design, the device's premium price of over $2,000 may deter many potential buyers.
Amazon has reduced the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL to $999, marking a $300 discount from its original $1,299 price. The device features a 6.8-inch display, a triple camera setup with 50MP, 48MP, and 48MP sensors, and runs on the Tensor G6 chip with Android 17. The deal requires an Amazon Prime membership to access the discount.
Norway's government has announced plans to introduce a temporary ban on smart glasses in locations where privacy is critical, such as schools, healthcare facilities, and gyms. The proposal aims to restrict device use in these areas while the government assesses the need for permanent regulation and defines which devices would be affected. The move is part of broader discussions on privacy concerns linked to emerging wearable technology.
Poland's Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) alleges that Google used its dominant market position to deny local news publishers information needed to negotiate fair compensation for content shown in Google Search, News and Discover. UOKiK president Tomasz Chróstny said Google failed to comply with rules requiring it to disclose data that publishers need to assess proper payment, and the regulator could fine Google up to 10 percent of its annual revenue.
Android Authority found a work-in-progress Gemini interface redesign inside Android Auto app version 17.9.664004, which it enabled to preview. The new animation adopts Google's Neural Expressive design style with dots around the Gemini interface, spanning the full screen width with Live and close buttons on either side, replacing the current subtle glow indicator.
Google has launched Android 17 QPR3 Beta 1, the first preview of its next quarterly platform release, for Pixel phones ranging from the Pixel 6a to the Pixel 11 series. Most devices receive build DP11.260918.006, while Pixel 11 models get DP11.260918.005, with Google noting the release focuses on bug fixes.
Google is reportedly preparing an update that would let users set different default durations for new events on each individual calendar, rather than applying a single global setting. This change was observed in the latest version of the Android Calendar app, indicating a shift towards more granular customization. Currently, users can only set one default event length across all their calendars, but the upcoming update could enhance scheduling flexibility for those managing multiple calendars.
Android Authority ran a two-week reader poll asking Pixel owners whether Android 17 QPR1, which began rolling out this month, introduced new problems. Of 1,458 respondents, about 68% reported some new issue, with performance (19%), UI behavior (16%), display glitches (14%) and connectivity (11%) as the top complaints, while nearly a third said they saw no new problems.