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Google launched a brand-new NotebookLM app for Android and iOS last month, and while it's nice for current users, it's not a replacement for the web client. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/JF95QrP

Back in May, Google announced the first wave of Gemini Live extension support. Initial extensions for Maps, Calendar, Keep, and Tasks are slowly starting to hit users. Beyond these, we’ve uncovered a large list of Live extensions that appear to be in development. Gemini Live has been both technically impressive and quite a bit of fun to interact with, right from the get-go; the combination of Gemini’s powerful models and a naturally flowing conversation is a winning pair. It’s only been getting more powerful and more useful ever since, like through the recent efforts we’ve seen to let Live interact with our favorite apps and services. And if you’ve been excited about the possibilities for where those kind of interactions could go next, we’ve got just the teaser for you. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/X2IEsJ9

According to a new leak, Samsung could launch its triple-folding phone at Unpacked. However, the device is only expected to become available in October. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 could also witness a longer-than-usual pre-order period. Samsung’s next Unpacked event is set for July 9, and while all eyes are on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, a leak from Setsuna Digital on Weibo hints at a surprise announcement. It looks like Samsung might also unveil its long-rumored triple-folding phone at Unpacked. According to the leaker, the triple-fold device is expected to be announced in July but won’t hit shelves until October. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 are only expected to ship out in August, suggesting a prolonged pre‑order period for buyers. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/O97tx8D

Credit: Evan Blass According to a new leak, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is expected to be just 8.9mm thick when folded, making it significantly thinner than last year’s model, which measured 12.1mm. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 is also reportedly getting slimmer and lighter, with upgraded display specs and a larger 4,300mAh battery. Samsung’s new foldables are just a few days away, and the leaks are coming in fast. The latest one spills out key specs of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, including details about how thin the devices are. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/vbGwMUK

The BeeStation Plus has the same design as the standard model, but it comes with a unique new addition: Plex media streaming. The addition of Plex makes this the ideal starter media server. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/3o6xUYr

Xiaomi is crashing the smart glasses scene with an AI pair that outlasts the Ray-Ban Meta. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/5CTUv0p

With Prime Day coming up, remember that not every deal is worth taking advantage of, especially when there are cheaper devices that will get the job done. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/ACt5Wp4

Half off of our favorite Amazon Fire TV Stick. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/FErQ6IC

Keep your money away from thieves by using common sense and good old-fashioned paranoia. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/1nlF6L3

Gmail for Android is testing a new “mark as read” button directly within its notifications, letting users manage their inbox without opening the app. The feature appears to be undergoing A/B testing with a small number of users, as it’s not widely available despite being on the latest app version. This potential addition would bring Gmail’s Android app in line with its iOS counterpart and other email clients that already offer this convenient shortcut. If your email inbox gets flooded with messages each day, it can be a chore to go through them all. One way to efficiently deal with this influx is to mark some emails as “read,” keeping them in your inbox without distracting you from more important matters. After all, you can often tell if an email needs your immediate attention just from the sender, subject line, and the first few lines of the message. Unfortunately, if you use Gmail for Android and want to mark an email as read, you have to open the app, as there’s no shortcut...

Google announced that it is dropping Chrome support for users on Android 8.0 or Android 9.0. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/m8EF57s

Samsung’s been rumored to be moving to a new technology for S Pen stylus input, starting with the Fold 7. While it earlier sounded like we might get a stylus with a built-in battery, the latest rumor suggests that won’t happen. The Fold 7 could even be compatible with old S Pens, but experiencing different input latency. What the heck is Samsung up to with the technology powering its S Pen stylus ? A while back, we heard rumors that the Galaxy phone manufacturer was considering a new tracking system for the S Pen in its upcoming Z Fold 7 . That’s been fresh on our minds this week, following a report claiming that this same tech could pop up again with the Galaxy S26 Ultra (check out our video coverage above, starting at the 30-second mark). And just when it felt like we were maybe starting to see what Samsung could be up to with this new S Pen approach, a new rumor has us back to scratching our heads. Let’s back up for a quick refresher: Samsung’s approach to stylus tracking ...

Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority T-Mobile is phasing out its Philo and YouTube TV discount perk, though it might remain available for up to two more years. Customers will now pay Philo directly but receive reimbursement as a T-Mobile account credit. Those affected should monitor future communications from T-Mobile closely, as the offer might end earlier. If you’ve been with T-Mobile for a while, you might recall that it initially tried to break into the TV market with its TVision service. After less than a year, the service shut down. Before exiting, it offered discounted TV service through either Philo or YouTube TV as an alternative for its subscribers. Unfortunately, it appears that this perk may finally be ending, though the good news is that the change could still be two years away. As first noted by Redditor Shaki8 , T-Mobile is sending alerts to customers with the Philo TV discount, indicating it will now cover the service via a credit for up to 24 months r...

Google is integrating Gemini's app with Google Workspace and bringing a boost to Slides and Vids with Veo 3. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/Y9ZvNyR

Credit: Proton Proton Pass now supports storing more than just passwords, including medical records and passport numbers. You can create fully custom entries or use 14 new templates, with file attachments up to 10GB. Unlike Google Wallet, Proton Pass applies end-to-end encryption to everything you save and share. As you move more of your life into the digital world, Google and Apple are gaining more competition for Wallet apps. Proton Pass is the privacy-focused password manager from the makers of Proton Mail , and it just took a big step beyond logins. It now lets you securely save almost anything, from passport numbers to medical records. In a new blog post , Proton announced a major update that transforms Proton Pass into what it calls an “everything manager.” The service now supports 14 new item types, including Wi-Fi credentials, pet microchip numbers, driver’s licenses, and Bitcoin wallet logins. You can even build fully custom items, choosing your own fields and ...

Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority YouTube is rolling out an AI-powered search results carousel for Premium members on the mobile app. This carousel may appear when you search for queries related to shopping, places, or things to do. The platform’s conversational AI tool is also opening up to some non-Premium users in the US. YouTube is getting two AI-related updates to make it easier for users to find what they’re looking for and get more information. One of these updates is exclusive for Premium members, while the other is a previously exclusive feature that’s now opening up to some non-Premium users. In a blog post , YouTube revealed it’s introducing a new AI-powered search results carousel to the mobile app. This feature will generate relevant video suggestions and topic descriptions when you perform a search. As the company explains, this carousel won’t appear on every search, but you may see it pop up for queries related to shopping, places, or things to do i...

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority Apple’s AirTag 2 may offer both low and very low battery alerts. Most Android trackers still rely on a single vague low-battery warning. The AirTag 2 is expected to launch in the fall, likely alongside the next iPhone. Bluetooth trackers are supposed to give you peace of mind, but there’s always the risk that they’ll silently die on you when you need them most. That’s why one rumored battery management upgrade to Apple’s upcoming AirTag 2 could be a subtle game-changer, and it’s something Android’s ecosystem has yet to catch up on. As reported by 9to5Mac , Apple is planning to introduce two separate battery alerts in its second-generation AirTag — one for low battery and a second for very low battery. While it sounds like a small tweak, it’s a practical fix for a real-world problem: trackers that stop working without warning because users assumed they still had time. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/zwWs04G

NordVPN is offering an outstanding deal for customers who sign up for one of its two-year service plans, plus you'll be eligible for a free Amazon gift card. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/WGSmaoE

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority Ring is rolling out AI-powered Video Descriptions that summarize camera footage in plain text. The feature helps users quickly distinguish urgent events from routine activity. It’s currently in beta for Ring Home Premium users in the US and Canada. Smart home cameras have long sent vague alerts, which can be a double-edged sword. You want to know what’s happening on your property, but it can be stressful to get the notification only to realize on playback that it was clearly a false alarm. Ring’s latest update aims to make those notifications more specific, describing what your camera sees. Ring founder Jamie Siminoff announced the new Ring Video Descriptions in an Amazon post . Powered by generative AI, they’re now rolling out in beta for Ring Home Premium subscribers in the US and Canada. Instead of generic motion alerts, users will now see short text summaries of what their cameras actually capture, such as “a person is wa...

Credit: Joe Hindy / Android Authority Samsung Wallet will soon support digital keys for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Users will be able to securely share their digital key with friends and family. A digital key can be locked or deleted remotely if the device that contains it is stolen or misplaced. Like other digital wallets, Samsung Wallet can store various things like payment methods, identification cards, digital keys, and more. On the digital key front, the app already supports a range of vehicle brands like Hyundai, BMW, Volvo, and Audi. In the coming weeks, that list will expand to include a new car brand. Samsung has announced that it will soon add digital key compatibility for Mercedes-Benz vehicles to Wallet. There’s no exact date on when support will arrive, but the tech giant shared that it will roll out sometime in July 2025. When support becomes available, Mercedes-Benz owners will be able to lock, unlock, and start their car with just their smartphone. fro...

Recent information from an app developer has unveiled that Google's prototype Android XR smart glasses are internally referred to as "Google Martha." from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/pe1qVYt

Dangbei’s MP1 Max is a 4K Google TV projector with built-in stand. The multi-modal light source combines laser and LED output for a bright 3,100 lumen rating. The MP1 Max natively supports Netflix and all your other favorite streaming apps. If you still have yet to upgrade your home media experience with the fun and convenience of a modern digital projector, what are you waiting for? If you’ve got a blank wall, you’ve got a screen just waiting to be used, and there is absolutely no shortage of great projector options out there, running the gamut from super-affordable to tricked out with all the latest bells and whistles. We just heard about one of those budget options from Dangbei a little earlier this year, and now we’re checking out the company’s latest, which definitely shifts things over to that higher-end space. Today Dangbei is launching its MP1 Max, a Google TV projector featuring 4K resolution, a built-in stand for easy positioning, and bright 3,100 ISO lumens output...

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority Google is working on giving Gemini the ability to control your smart home from your car. Gemini will be able to manage all Home devices connected to your account. Google Assistant for Android Auto and Automotive is a great hands-free tool for handling a variety of tasks while on the road. One such task you can use the digital assistant for is controlling your  smart home from the car. When Gemini eventually replaces Assistant on Android Auto and Automotive, it should be able to do everything Assistant can do and more, including controlling your smart home. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Yrk1eqQ

A tipster claimed the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE is "confirmed" and headed for a summer launch. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/1smiKnY

The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 has been officially unveiled, and after spending a little bit of time with it, I'm even more excited than I thought I would be. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/uZK604F

Gemini on Android can now finally name that tune with Song Search. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/j9mqnbu

Spartan races require a wide range of fitness skills to finish, but which smartwatch measures them best? I put the Google Pixel Watch 3 and OnePlus Watch 3 head-to-head to find out. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/GCaNtdF

I’ve been feeling quite nostalgic lately, especially for old camera phones. Last month, I praised the Nokia 9 PureView for its unique camera setup that makes every shot an adventure. I’ve also revisited the LG G4 , a phone that sparked my love for photography. However, there’s one more older Android camera phone I still carry around whenever possible. In its prime, the HUAWEI P30 Pro was the best Android phone money could buy. Sure, that’s just my opinion, but plenty of evidence supports it. It was durable and relatively compact compared to today’s phones. It had simple yet attractive styling, fast performance, and excellent battery life. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/6wb30Jo

Thanks to flip phones, taking photos just became a little more interesting. Here's how you can get the most out of your Android flip phone. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/lkwSTq1

The Motorola Edge 2025 is a worthwhile successor to the Edge 2024 with plenty of upgrades. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/DnGF7Na

I set up a new phone fairly often — whether it’s moving to a new daily driver or secondary phone, or setting up one of the new best Android phones to review. Since I’m a creature of habit, I like to ensure that switching devices isn’t too jarring, so I have created a bit of a routine when it comes to setting up a new device. While I may tweak my approach depending on whether I plan to use the phone as my new daily driver or as a secondary device (such as a camera smartphone ), these are the essential steps I take with every phone. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/jmKZuHn

Have you ever seen those cool hexagon lights that YouTubers love to adorn their walls with? They look fantastic, and I always wanted some, but they can get a bit pricey. Thanks to the folks at Linkind, I finally got to test some, and the best part is that its EP6 Smart Hexagon Panels won’t break the bank. Let’s dive right in. Setting things up from Android Authority https://ift.tt/hSeYcMp

Everything you need to know about Prime Day shopping on Android Central is here! from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/faSrwy2

I review a lot of robot vacuum cleaners, so it’s always nice to check out a product in the category that tries something new. After unboxing the eufy Robot Vacuum Omni E28, I was met with a good-looking robot vacuum, but also some oddities that were attached to the oversized base station — most notably, a great big hose on the side. That grafted on hose and other compartments are key to the eufy Robot Vacuum Omni E28, which is a combination robot vacuum with a base station that doubles as a portable carpet deep cleaner. The eufy team is doing a great job thinking outside the box to satisfy all of your floor cleaning needs, but is this the right solution for you? I tested it to find out. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/UpETamw

Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority New “official” images of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 have leaked. The images show both foldables in two different colorways. These colorways are said to be called Blue Shadow and Jet Black. Samsung is gearing up to launch the next generation of its foldable phones. As we inch closer to the eventual announcement, predictably, leaks have been ramping up. Previously, we’ve seen CAD renders of both the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 . Now, a new leak claims to give us a look at “official” renders of both handsets. Courtesy of Android Headlines , we have a new collection of renders for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 to check out. These “official” renders present both foldables in two colorways, which are reportedly called Blue Shadow and Jet Black. More colorways are expected to be available, but these are the only two included in this report. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/OEUiFqG

Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority Reports of bricked secondhand Switch 2 consoles are already coming in. Nintendo has been banning consoles that use MiG Switch carts, with no recourse. This has major implications for the used Switch 2 market going forward. The Nintendo Switch 2 has only been out for a few weeks, but some lucky users have already found deals on secondhand consoles. One Reddit user reported finding such a deal, scoring a sweet $50 discount on the console, even though new consoles were sold out. Well, at least it seemed like a good deal, until an “Error Code: 2124-4508” message appeared on the screen during setup at home. This error code prevents the console from using any online Nintendo services, effectively bricking the device. It’s Nintendo’s nuclear option in the war against piracy and ToS violations, and the company hasn’t been shy about using it. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/CYAdXtz

Google Play Store is receiving a server side update that brings the visual hues of Material 3 Expressive. This server-side update introduces colorful icons in the search tab, making categories like apps and games more visually distinct. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/ZqDnwOj

T-Mobile will reportedly start charging taxes and fees on top of its tablet, smartwatch, and hotspot plans. Previously, these plans were still available with taxes and fees included in their monthly prices. The change is said to take effect as early as today, with wording on T-Mobile’s website suggesting they’re already rolling out. Earlier this year, T-Mobile made a pretty significant change (read: downgrade) to its unlimited plans. After almost a decade of bundling taxes and fees into its prices, T-Mobile stopped doing this when it rolled out its Experience plans in April . Now, it looks like T-Mobile is preparing to start charging taxes and fees for almost every plan it sells. If you visit the T-Mobile website today, you’ll see that taxes and fees are an additional charge for all of the carrier’s cell phone plans. However, T-Mobile’s other plans for tablets, smartwatches, and hotspot data still bundle taxes and fees into the monthly price. According to “multiple sources” fr...

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority The Google Home 3.33 app update claims to improve camera timeline scrubbing on Android with better framerate and loading. A limited-access member tier is now generally available, allowing more control over shared home permissions. Early user feedback is mixed, with some praising the upgrade and others saying scrubbing performance is still lacking. Google has rolled out a new update to its Google Home app that targets one of the most persistent complaints among Nest camera users. While improvements to key apps are usually a step in the right direction, not everyone is convinced the update goes far enough. According to the latest entry on the Google changelog — dated May 28 but only published on Google’s support site yesterday — the Google Home 3.33 update brings substantially improved framerate and loading performance when scrolling through video history on Android . The goal is to make scrubbing through footage on the camera t...

Mark your calendars as Amazon just announced dates for its annual Prime Days, and this time you can shop deals for 4 long days! from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/fUcaJMx

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority If you’re on the hunt for a new phone, it can be worth your time taking a look at some slightly older handsets. Of course, the latest models are going to have all of the bells and whistles, but usually, the generation from before isn’t too far behind. More importantly, you can save a lot of money without too much sacrifice if you know where to look. For example, the Pixel 8 Pro is still a terrific device in 2025, and you can get one right now for as low as $335. Buy the Google Pixel 8 Pro for $335 ($264 off) from Android Authority https://ift.tt/DJbp2Bu

Credit: Trump Mobile The Trump Organization is launching a phone service called T1 Mobile. The highlight of this service is its flagship “47 plan.” The group has also unveiled a new phone called the T1 Phone. Lately, there have been murmurs about the Trump Organization wanting to enter the mobile phone market. Recently spotted trademarks suggested the organization was looking to launch both a phone and a mobile service. Those murmurs have now turned into a full-blown announcement as the group unveiled its new mobile venture. The Trump Organization, run by the US president’s eldest sons, announced the launch of T1 Mobile, a wireless service under the Trump Mobile brand. According to the announcement, this service will offer 5G coverage through all three of the major US carriers (AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile). The highlight of this service is its flagship “47 Plan,” which is available for $47.45 per month. The subscription price is a nod to Donald Trump’s presidency,...

Samsung has released the One UI 8 Watch beta, introducing several new features focused on helping users develop healthier habits. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/qgHmiKM

Meta is teasing its next-generation smart glasses powered by an Oakley partnership, scheduled to be announced on Friday, June 20. Here's what to expect. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/8hOlfVP

A teardown of the Google app’s recent beta shows Gemini’s overlay UI may soon adopt Google’s brand colors. It replaces Gemini’s current two-tone colors with Google’s trademark red, blue, green, and yellow colors. The colors accent the mic button and highlight the chat box for interacting with Gemini. Google has gradually refined how Gemini appears over the past few months. The assistant’s interface has become more polished, and more integrated, with features like the compact floating overlay and subtle animations. Now, Google appears to be testing another visual update, and it could make Gemini feel more like Google and less like a disembodied chatbot. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/OdE6rXS

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority The Play Store is getting a taste of Google’s Material 3 Expressive design language with colorful new icons in the search tab. The new icons make search shortcuts more vibrant and easier to tell apart at a glance. The update was spotted on version 46.5.19 of the Play Store app and seems to be a server-side change. Google is rolling out a colorful and visually appealing update to the Play Store’s search tab. The tab now features colorful new icons instead of the minimalist blue icons Google has been using until now. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/W6BPJGb

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority The Fitbit app has introduced a new Device Settings page for smartwatches and fitness trackers. The new layout mimics the one used in the Pixel Watch app. The device settings menu has also been updated Google has quietly updated the Fitbit app, introducing a redesigned Device Settings page for smartwatches and fitness trackers. The new look brings the Fitbit app closer to the design of the Pixel Watch companion app. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/3MlPV80

Garmin gave the Forerunner 970 running tolerance to make it appealing to serious runners, but casual runners need this feature a lot more. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/CIuj9gY

It was a balmy September evening in 2016, and my friends and I thought it the perfect evening for a night-time hike up Cape Town’s popular Lion’s Head. Placed right in the city’s center, the panoramic views from the peak would no doubt be spectacular, and we had our bags packed full of liquid nourishment for when we reached the top. Two hours later, we got to the summit, and with the city’s sprawling lights glimmering through the still air below us, I spied the perfect photo opportunity. So, I grabbed my little Joby tripod, mounted my phone to it, set the exposure to 15 seconds, its ISO to its lowest possible value, and waited. The resultant shot remains one of my favorites I’ve ever captured. That phone was the LG G4. I’m no doubt looking back at this phone through rose-tinted glasses. After all, nostalgia is one hell of a drug. The best Android phones have come a long way since then, improving almost every facet. I could (probably) capture that same shot with modern devices wit...

This XR event proved that VR headsets and smart glasses are about to improve by leaps and bounds over the current tech. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/TSdNHJf

Motorola's Smart Connect app is available on Quest 3 VR headsets, and it's a pretty cool way to use your phone while immersed in VR. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/UjXTMus

Rural broadband is still slow, unreliable, and monopolized in many places. There's no real way to fix it. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/XvBAiqW

I’ve been using Canva for years, mostly for simple designs. So when I saw that Canva had rolled out a new photo editing tool, which is more advanced that the simple tweaks you can make in a design, I was interested in trying it out. I stumbled across a useful feature that’s not in my favorite photo-editing app Snapseed , so I wondered if Canva could actually replace the free app’s place in my workflow. I tried out the Canva app’s new tool to see just how effective it would be at replacing Snapseed, and whether many of its features were locked behind a paywall. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/O1Eg48w

After sitting idly for the past few years, Samsung is apparently gearing up to take back its foldable phone crown. But I can't help but feel like something's amiss, I just can't figure out what it is. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/LsIa8cm

Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority iOS 26 finally introduces the ability to easily set custom ringtones from audio files. Previously, creating iPhone ringtones required a complex process involving GarageBand or a Mac. This feature has been available on Android since its inception, so iPhones have finally caught up. iOS 26 is a big software release for iPhones, not just because Apple made the big jump up from iOS 18 to 26. There’s a new design language called Liquid Glass to look forward to, and a lot more of Apple Intelligence sprinkled everywhere. But there’s one more change coming to iOS 26 that Android users have taken for granted for over 16 years. Yes, iPhone users can finally set custom ringtones without a laborious setup process. With iOS 26, setting a custom ringtone is just as easy as it always has been on Android Ever since Android came out in 2008, users have been able to set any MP3 file as their phone’s ringtone in just a few taps . Irrespective of t...

Garmin has made an Apple Watch Ultra lookalike and Fenix 8 alternative that's much lighter, longer-lasting, and better for training features. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/FNjWOcK

Credit: Bose Bose has announced the successor to its premium QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. The second-gen QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer enhanced ANC, improved voice pickup, and wireless charging support. The earbuds are priced at $299 and will be available in Black, White Smoke, and Deep Plum colorways. Bose expanded its premium headphone and earbud lineup with the launch of new Ultra models back in 2023. Its original QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are still among the best wireless earbuds on the market, but the company has now announced an upgraded model that brings some noteworthy improvements to the table. The new Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) may not look much different, but they promise better adaptive noise cancelation and voice pickup than the older model. The earbuds utilize an updated AI algorithm layered on top of Bose’s proprietary CustomTune sound calibration technology to improve the ActiveSense experience in Aware Mode, offer a smoother transiti...

Credit: Paul Jones / Android Authority Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 includes a quality-of-life improvement that allows immediate swiping away of recent apps to close them. The update removes the delay caused by waiting for the app-closing animations to finish, so users can quickly swipe-close all their apps one after the other. Despite the performance improvement, habitual app-clearing offers little benefit and may drain your battery. Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 is here, and eager enthusiasts are digging into the update to discover all that is new. One change people have spotted includes a faster swipe through from the Recents menu, saving some time if you obsessively close all apps. Reddit user ElectricalCulture764 noticed that swiping away apps in the Recents menu is now faster than ever before. Previously, when you opened a bunch of apps, went to Recents (swipe up and hold from the navigation pill), and tried to close the apps, you would have to wait for the full animation to...

Meta's social media platform, Threads, is beginning to test direct messaging (DMs) in select regions, fulfilling a top community request. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/C8rNGRt

ChatGPT is experiencing a massive global outage as many reach for AI alternatives like Gemini. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/KPFvT2E

Credit: MomongaX30 Nintendo Switch 2 users are reporting pinched fingers from Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons. The magnets are strong enough to cause minor injuries, especially in children. Nintendo was aware of this and included a warning in the Joy-Con 2 instruction manual. Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons might not have Hall Effect sticks , but the magnetic attachments are generally considered a highlight of the new design. However, users are reporting that the magnets are so strong that they’re pinching fingers, causing minor injuries. Most of the reports are coming from Japan (via Automaton ), but several users on Reddit have suffered the same fate. Essentially, holding the Joy-Cons with your finger overlapping the edge risks getting pinched between the Joy-Con and the console. The same is true when attaching the Joy Cons to the controller accessory, which also features magnets. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/lEB14fy

Enjoy high-speed internet on the go using the best portable wi-fi hotspot device on the market. These are your best options in every price range. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/OmlfU68

Monday marks the start of Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference. Apple kicks things things off with its keynote announcement at 1pm ET. The company is streaming the keynote on YouTube, and you can watch right here. This Monday, June 9, Apple is getting set to make some of its biggest announcements of the year. We’re only a few weeks removed from Google’s own I/O 2025, and now Silicon Valley is getting ready for its next big platform event of the summer. Whether you’re an Apple die-hard, or just an Android stan who wants to stay on top of what the other side’s up to, tech fans everywhere are going to be interested in tuning in. Let’s check out how you can watch! Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference is a week-long event that runs June 9–13. And to kick things off in proper fashion, Apple will get things started with its keynote announcement at 1pm ET. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Z9JvOq2

These Ray-Ban Wayfarers combine a classic design with hands-free tech. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/nsuO4tH

People were understandably upset when Google revamped its weather app and removed its lovable weather frog. Rain or shine, froggie was always ready to greet visitors looking for the day’s conditions. However, with the launch of the Pixel 9 and the introduction of Pixel Weather , the frog moved to the old weather interface accessed through Google Search. While that’s a suitable home, having to perform a search just to see the frog has become tiresome for many, including me. Thankfully, there’s a third-party app that can help. Weather Master is an app I’ve grown to love over the past few weeks, and not just for its pro-frog stance. If I could redesign Pixel Weather, it would likely look like this. The app offers a perfect balance of clean aesthetics, playfulness, and useful information, creating a successful weather app experience. Unlike Pixel Weather, it makes efficient use of space without sacrificing these values. The use of Product Sans and Google’s design language througho...

For years, I would suggest CapCut as the go-to video editing app for Android. But with its strong push towards monetization, I decided a while ago that it’s time for me to leave CapCut behind . That’s when I set out to find a suitable replacement by trying out the best video editing apps . While many apps have the same issues I faced with CapCut, I was able to find my new favorite — along with a few other recommendations. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/tXcAT5K

Phones are starting to implement AI buttons, but the implementation is far from perfect. Now it's Samsung and Google's turn. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/pUVQJ9b

YouTube Premium Lite offers a budget-priced paid subscription that removes most ads from YouTube. Exceptions have included things like music videos, and in some markets Google has warned that Shorts may show ads, as well. The company is now sending out notices to more subscribers warning them that ads in Shorts will start appearing at the end of June. YouTube Premium is well worth paying for, giving users ad-free access to maybe the broadest library of content in streaming history. But especially if you get your music fix from another provider (like paying for Spotify Premium), it doesn’t make a ton of sense to be paying full price for YouTube Premium and not taking advantage of its YouTube Music access. That’s exactly why we were so happy to see Google introduce YouTube Premium Lite , which just focuses on removing (most) ads without worrying about any extras — and does so for a fraction of the price. While Premium Lite removes the vast majority of ads from normal videos, we’...

Making something thinner and compromising other features is a bad idea. We all knew that. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/q3uxmyb

For years, Notion has been my go-to for organizing everything from invoices to movie watchlists. Its flexibility as a database is unmatched, but when it came to creative workflows like jotting down spontaneous ideas, threading together thoughts, and collecting visual inspiration, that’s where Notion starts to feel a bit rigid. I needed something that didn’t ask me to file every passing idea into a system the moment it showed up. That’s just not how a creative flow works. At least not for me. I needed a tool that didn’t ask every idea to fit into a system the moment it showed up. I know, I know. Obsidian is the usual answer here with its unending customisation and the famed graph view. But I wanted something cloud-first. So I began looking for a tool that could complement, if not replace, what Notion already does so well. That’s how I found myself bouncing between Notion and Capacities for the better part of a year. Like most people trying to organize their digital life, I star...

Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 owners are learning the hard way that they shouldn’t skip the system transfer prompt. System transfer allows you to transfer your user profile, digital games, and more from your Switch to your Switch 2. If you skip the initial prompt, you won’t get another chance to use it, unless you do a factory reset. Although the wait may have felt like an eternity to some fans, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally finding its way into homes. As with any console launch, you’re probably pretty eager to boot the system up and start playing right away. Look, we understand the feeling, but you may want to hold your horses a bit and complete the system transfer process first. Some overly excited Switch 2 owners are quickly learning that Nintendo only gives you one chance at this. When you start up a Switch 2, you’ll see a prompt to start the system transfer process. If you own an original Switch, this process will allow you to transfer your user profile, d...

Credit: Nick Fernandez / Android Authority Retroid just announced a Dual Screen add-on for its popular retro gaming handhelds. This can make emulation for Nintendo DS, 3DS, and even Wii U games more immersive. The company has not announced pricing or availability yet. Retro gaming handheld maker Retroid spent most of this week teasing a dual-screen device , which was finally revealed this morning. Rather than a new device to its growing lineup, it’s an accessory that can attach to some of its most popular handhelds. The aptly named Dual Screen add-on has a large screen with a clip on the bottom. When attached to a gaming handheld, it creates a clamshell form factor similar to the LG V60 or Microsoft Surface Duo. Retroid hasn’t shared much beyond the picture above, but a representative confirmed on Discord that it’s an OLED panel. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/cDxlNvG

Meta has spent billions investing in smart glasses R&D, and now the company's efforts are paying off with the help of the original Oculus founder, Palmer Luckey. from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/RdzhESk

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority Mint Mobile’s new deal includes the Samsung Galaxy S25 and two years of unlimited data for just $30 per month. The deal starts at noon PT today and runs until July 31. While it works out to $30 per month, you’re required to make the full $720 payment upfront. Starting later today and running until July 31, Mint Mobile is offering what it calls its “best phone deal ever.” The T-Mobile subsidiary is combining two years of unlimited service with a standard model Samsung Galaxy S25 , all for the equivalent of just $30 per month.  According to the T-Mobile press release , the deal starts at noon PT today (3 PM ET), so it’s not live on the Mint Mobile site at the time of writing. It’s certainly getting its share of fanfare, though, with former Mint owner and current spokesperson Ryan Reynolds appearing in the YouTube video below to spotlight the offer. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/AjLItzG

From left to right: Galaxy Z Fold 4, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 6. Credit: Ryan Whitwam / Android Authority Samsung released a cryptic teaser for an “Ultra” foldable, which fuelled speculation that a Galaxy Z Fold 7 Ultra is coming. However, a reputed leaker says that no “Ultra” version will be coming this summer, and Samsung is merely using “Ultra” to refer to upgrades to the camera, performance, and thinness. A separate report from South Korea suggests Samsung’s next Unpacked event may happen in NYC early next month. The internet is abuzz with Samsung’s rather cryptic teaser for an “Ultra” foldable  launching this summer. Samsung didn’t share many details about the phone outside a GIF, but its flagships have been iterative upgrades for so long that people are jumping at the idea of a Galaxy Z Fold 7 Ultra. Now, a new leak is here to dampen our hopes of an Ultra foldable from Samsung. Leaker Max Jambor shared on X that no Ultra model is coming this summer. Samsung’s teaser...

It's pretty common for new Android phones to use eSIM technology, but which devices are the best? from Latest from Android Central https://ift.tt/tfGZvmd

Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority Google Maps for Android Automotive is getting customized design elements. This new ability will allow the UI in Maps to match the UI of the native OS. Polestar announced that this feature would roll out to its cars in the coming weeks. While plenty of vehicles have Android Automotive installed, you won’t find two brands with the exact same OS aesthetic. This is because Google lets car makers customize the UI to fit their desired user experience. However, the story is a little different for apps you have installed, as they are unaffected by the native OS’s design influences. But this is changing for at least one auto brand soon. At SXSW London, Polestar revealed that it has been working with Google to bring customized design elements to Google Maps . These custom design elements would allow you to change the look of Maps so that it better matches the overall UI. Polestar says that this change will create “a more balanced look and ...

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority New research suggests that Meta and Yandex used a loophole in Android to link web browsing data to app identities. The method bypassed incognito mode, cookie clearing, and other privacy protections. Researchers say the only sure fix for now is uninstalling the affected apps. You’ve long been reassured that using incognito mode or clearing cookies on your Android device will help prevent advertisers from tracking your web activity . However, new research shows that this may not be true, especially if you have certain popular apps installed. As reported by Ars Technica and disclosed by researchers behind the Local Mess project , both Meta and Russian tech giant Yandex have been found to be using methods that allow web browsing to be linked with app identities on Android. The researchers found that this tracking method exploits the way Android allows browsers and apps to communicate on the same device. from Android Authority ...