GrapheneOS reports that after a week spent building a partial port for the Pixel 11 series, it cannot complete the port because the devices lack working support for ARM hardware memory tagging (MTE) in software, firmware and likely hardware. The project notes the Pixel 8 introduced hardware MTE in October 2023, but neither Android nor the Pixel OS enabled it by default, and Android 16's Advanced Protection Mode only turns it on for a handful of processes. GrapheneOS adds that Pixel 11 still gains some security upgrades, including post-quantum verified boot, AOSP IMS replacing Samsung Shannon, and a Titan M3 chip.
discuss.grapheneos.org
· 2026-10-05
Android Authority found code in Pixel Search app version 1.0.983036833 referencing devices from the 2021 Pixel lineup onward, suggesting Google plans to officially bring the expanded search app beyond the Pixel 11 series. The app currently requires Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 or later to function, with the stable release expected around December 2026.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
A new version of Google's Pixel Search app adds a 'Privacy & Permissions' settings section with toggles for 'Help improve Pixel Search,' 'Call Logs,' and 'SMS.' These let users control whether their call and message history is used to improve contact suggestions, though disabling them doesn't stop call or SMS results from appearing in search unless app permissions are revoked separately. Code analysis by Android Authority also uncovered references to an unreleased 'Gemini-powered suggestions' feature.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
Android Authority's Aamir Siddiqui argues that for the price of Apple's base 256GB iPhone 18 Pro Max, buyers have strong Android alternatives. His picks include the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL, Motorola Razr Ultra (2026), Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8. A reader poll accompanying the piece shows the Galaxy S26 Ultra as the most popular alternative at 42% of votes.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
In an Android Authority reader poll of nearly 2,300 votes, 61.5% chose the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra as the preferred alternative to Apple's iPhone 18 Pro, beating out the Google Pixel 11 Pro, Motorola Razr Ultra (2026), and other Android flagships by a wide margin. The Galaxy S26 Ultra costs about $100 more than the iPhone 18 Pro but includes features like a Privacy Display, an additional camera, and Samsung's Galaxy AI tools.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
An Android Authority columnist praises the Pixel 11 Pro's hardware, cameras and software but says testing uncovered three recurring weaknesses: inconsistent gaming performance, limited battery capacity, and slow wired charging. The writer cites a colleague's investigation finding that the Tensor GPU's rendering approach causes microstutters in games because it lacks native support for certain graphics features.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
GrapheneOS says it has traced a regression in Google's Android 17 QPR1 update that causes lag, stuttering, freezes, and app crashes on Pixel devices under memory pressure. The project says the bug originates in Pixel firmware and drivers supplied by Google, meaning it can affect stock Pixel software too, and it has already patched the issue in its own OS release while Google has not yet issued a fix.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
A leak from Android Headlines details an unreleased Fitbit model called the Fitbit Edge, expected to succeed the 2023 Fitbit Charge. Reported specs include a small display, seven-day battery life, GPS, an altimeter, and limited app support for Google Maps and YouTube Music, with color options matching upcoming Pixel 11 phones like Rose Peach and Olive.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-05
Multiple Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro/Pro XL owners say Google Maps freezes, flickers, or shows pixelated graphical artifacts when used with Android Auto, over both wired and wireless connections. The issue persists despite clearing app data, reinstalling apps, switching cables, or changing resolution settings, and doesn't affect all users or vehicles.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
Android Authority found a new lock screen customization page hidden in the Wallpaper & Style app on the first Android 17 QPR3 beta. The page is mostly empty but shows buttons for wallpaper, colors, clock, widgets, and a new 'media' option not seen in the current menu. Currently, Pixel owners customize lock screens through a swipe-based menu with separate settings for clock, shortcuts, and notifications.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
A leak from Android Headlines details a new Google wearable called the Fitbit Edge, shown in black, green, and orange color options. The device reportedly features a small oval display, side buttons, a Fitbit Air-style sensor array, and a pinch-based strap-swap mechanism.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-05
A tech guide explains why adding a second monitor can improve desk organization and workflow, letting users view reference material without printing documents or relying on phones and tablets as makeshift extra screens. It recommends matching screen size, pixel density, and mounting height between monitors, while noting that only the primary display needs premium specs like high refresh rates.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-05
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