Google is testing a new Gemini feature called 'Call for Me' that lets the AI place phone calls to businesses on a user's behalf, sharing approved personal details to complete tasks like booking reservations or checking stock. The feature is limited to Pixel 11 owners with a Gemini subscription in the U.S. and requires the beta Google Phone app, using the user's own number and allowing them to watch a live transcript or take over the call.
techcrunch.com
· 2026-09-24
Multiple users, including on Reddit and Android Authority's own test devices, report that the built-in camera in Google Messages either fires the LED flash too early, producing dark photos, or fails to trigger it at all. The bug appears across stable and beta versions of the app, on different phone models and carriers, and has reportedly been occurring for over a month. The flash works normally in other camera apps and outside the Messages interface, indicating the fault is specific to Google Messages' in-chat camera.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-24
Google is rolling out an early experimental feature that lets Gemini place calls to local businesses on a user's behalf, handling tasks like reservations, stock checks or rescheduling appointments. The AI navigates phone menus and holds while the user watches a live transcript and can take over at any moment. The feature is available today as an early preview to Gemini paid subscribers enrolled in the Phone by Google Public Beta on Pixel 11 in the US.
theverge.com
· 2026-09-24
Apple let reporters test its first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, at Apple Park ahead of preorders opening Oct. 16 and a launch on Oct. 23. The device has a 5.4-inch cover screen and a 7.6-inch inner display, and Apple showed how apps like Netflix will adapt across the cover screen, full inner display, and a half-folded mode with on-screen controls.
cnet.com
· 2026-09-24
Motorola has officially launched the Signature 27, a new Android flagship phone featuring an unusual rear camera housing and two textured color options. An Android Authority writer who has been using the Pixel 11 Pro as a daily driver says the new device has him reconsidering his choice, citing its design and camera system among several draws.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-24
Android Authority's review of the Google Pixel 11 finds the $899 phone doubles base storage over its predecessor and pairs a larger 48MP main camera with a slimmer all-glass camera bar. The reviewer reports the Tensor G6 chip underperforms rivals and, lacking the vapor chamber in Pro models, causes real overheating and stuttering during everyday use.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-24
Several Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL users report redeeming an additional 12-month trial of Google AI Pro with 5TB storage after their original one-year promo expired. Users found the offer either in the My Pixel app or the Google One app, with reports suggesting it may be limited to certain regions, likely including the US.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-24
GrapheneOS confirmed on X that Motorola's newly unveiled Signature 27 will be the first phone supported under its partnership with Motorola, ending years of Pixel-only availability. The project said official details on rollout timing and preinstallation are still pending.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-24
Android Authority found a new settings option in Google Recorder version 4.2.2 called "Access recordings in other apps." When turned on, future audio recordings would be saved automatically to a Recordings folder accessible through Files by Google or other file manager apps, rather than being locked inside the app's sandboxed storage. The change would only apply to new recordings, not files already saved.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-23
Android Authority ran side-by-side tests comparing the Pixel 11 Pro's new MediaTek modem against the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, covering signal strength, cellular data speeds, and battery drain while streaming. Both phones used identical SIM cards, software, and starting battery levels, disconnected from Wi-Fi, to keep the comparison controlled. Google switched from Samsung's Exynos modem to MediaTek for the Pixel 11 series, following reported gains over last year's Pixel 10 Pro in speed, reception, and efficiency.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-23
Android Authority found evidence in My Pixel app version 8.9.1 that Google is developing color-matched app icons for Pixel 9 devices, a feature already launched with the Pixel 11 series. The update currently covers several Pixel 9 color variants like Hazel, Rose Quartz, and Obsidian, but excludes the Pixel 9a, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and all Pixel 10 models. Testers were also unable to trigger the new icon on a Porcelain-colored Pixel 9.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-23
Google has published guidance on configuring Android phones so they can be tracked if lost, including keeping software updated, verifying the linked Google account, and enabling Location services. Users are directed to enable settings under Security such as Find Hub or Find My Mobile, along with an Offline Finding option that requires a device PIN, pattern, or password.
engadget.com
· 2026-09-22
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