Mishaal Rahman

The best source for Android OS news.

Co-host on Android Faithful. Senior contributor to Android Authority, Android Police, and more.

Public Key

npub13uavycwuwcz43n4l8mnt3y09lczv4rz4uxlhnhw7ygs8hcyh657s55kcsa

NIP-05 Address

MishaalRahman_at_androiddev.social@mostr.pub

Profile Code

nprofile1qqsg7wkzv8w8vp2ce6lnae4cj8jlupx23327r0memh0zygrmuzta20gpz4mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujumt0wd68ytnsw43qcq2wlv

Publishing to

relay.mostr.pub

Author Public Key

npub13uavycwuwcz43n4l8mnt3y09lczv4rz4uxlhnhw7ygs8hcyh657s55kcsa

Show more details

Last Notes

2024-10-09 02:54:43

Breaking: Google just confirmed that the U.S. DOJ is seeking, among other changes, to force Google to split off Chrome and Android.
Source: https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/public-policy/doj-search-remedies-framework/
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/275/206/306/438/407/original/e0dc4ae551471e49.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/275/206/402/219/820/original/aa7b6b3d113c5da2.jpg

2024-09-24 10:20:47

A future Android 15 update could make notification bubbles less distracting
The OS may soon let you stash notification bubbles to the side so they take up less space.
Details + a screenshot of this new bubble stashing feature can be found 👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/android-15-bubble-stashing-3484464/

2024-09-08 23:14:02

- reply

And no, those OEM backup/restore services are far from perfect.
They save my home screen layout and system settings if I'm switching between devices from the same brand but I still have to manually sign into the vast majority of my apps again.
Keepass autofill saves me a lot of trouble but it's still a huge PITA.

2024-09-08 23:13:55

- reply

I know my home screen isn't very AESTHETIC but you know for sure I've committed to using this thing.
Actually changing phones takes WAY too much effort. I can see why Linus from LTT has been using a Galaxy Note 9 for so long.

2024-09-08 23:13:35

- reply

I don't want to pick any fights, but I've long had the feeling that many creators don't commit to fully transitioning over to new devices and instead just dual carry their actual daily driver... all the images of blank/stock home screens I see in reviews make me suspicious.

2024-09-08 23:13:23

- reply

including setting up my home screen again (not using a custom launcher), signing into all of my apps, migrating my OnePlus Watch 2 over, going through HyperOS settings to customize it to my liking, adding my cards again to Google Wallet, etc.

2024-09-08 23:13:15

Shout-outs to the very few Android apps that don't make me sign in again after migrating phones:
Mastodon, Feedly, Harmonic for Hacker News, MyAnimeList
Took me a total of 6 hours this weekend to fully migrate from the Z Fold 6 to the Xiaomi 13T Pro
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/104/466/106/901/843/original/ea18268e95f03c6a.jpg

2024-08-31 17:14:43

Scoop: OSOM, the company formed by former Essential employees, is being sued to turn over its financial records. Its former CPO alleges the founder has misused company funds to pay for Lamborghinis and his lavish lifestyle.
https://www.androidauthority.com/osom-privacy-lawsuit-3477182/

2024-08-30 20:38:05

- reply

So by using TrickyStore to target PCS and modify the certificate chain generated for Android Key Attestation, voila, it works. Well, at least for now.

2024-08-30 20:37:58

- reply

PCS last year implemented Key Attestation support to verify the authenticity of devices before allowing certain operations. AICore uses PCS' Protected Downloads API to securely download the Gemini Nano model.
(Interestingly, PCS last year added support for running the Protected Downloads operation in a virtual machine using AVF, though I'm not sure if this is actually used here.)

2024-08-30 20:37:48

UPDATE: Some users have figured out how to enable Call Notes, Pixel Screenshots, and other Gemini Nano-powered features on bootloader unlocked Pixel 9 units!
It seems the culprit behind the model not downloading on bootloader unlocked devices is the Private Compute Services (PCS) app.

2024-08-30 20:27:39

Samsung is doing that thing again where they're offering a free storage upgrade and boosted trade-in values...
You can get the 512GB Galaxy Z Fold 6 for as low as $700 right now.
This is my current daily driver, btw, so I can recommend it!
Details in the replies.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/052/852/931/144/143/original/49887d91f83d4935.png
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/052/853/871/228/479/original/4225a9b7a82b3e0f.png

2024-08-30 15:00:37

Circle to Search can now automatically scan barcodes and QR codes!
This feature was spotted by AssembleDebug in late June but has now rolled out to myself and several other people.
Thanks to Anh on Discord for the tip!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/051/568/103/168/527/original/36172b033a25fd6b.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/051/568/305/543/135/original/a641c6e0640b6c07.jpg

2024-08-29 22:30:21

Android on the Google Pixel 9 will no longer call slow chargers 'fast.'
Google has updated the fast charging threshold so the Pixel 9 won't say "charging rapidly" when you're using a charger that only delivers 7.5W of power.
More details on this Android change can be found in this article: https://www.androidauthority.com/pixel-9-charging-rapidly-lock-screen-3476687/

2024-08-29 20:50:25

A minor, but welcome change is rolling out to the Google Weather app's forecast tile on Wear OS:
You can now see weather information for the next four hours.
Screenshots can be seen in this article: https://www.androidauthority.com/google-weather-forecast-tile-update-3476623/

2024-08-29 18:41:28

Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1.1 is out, and the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL are now eligible to install it!
(Neither device had a QPR1 Beta 1 build.)
Beta 1.1 includes a fix for an issue that could sometimes cause devices to restart unexpectedly.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/046/774/237/943/945/original/b5cdf27a9c5562e0.png

2024-08-29 17:57:57

- reply

Funny thing about the Pixel Fold's dual-screen interpreter feature: It doesn't work if you use Google Gemini, lol. You have to use Google Assistant to activate it.
At least with this Google Translate dual-screen conversation mode, you can continue using Gemini.

2024-08-29 17:55:17

Google Translate quietly added a dual-screen conversation mode for foldable phones some time back, and it even works with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6!
(No, this isn't the same thing as the Pixel Fold's dual-screen interpreter.)
More details👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/google-translate-dual-screen-conversation-mode-foldables-3476545/

2024-08-29 16:41:17

The Samsung Developer Conference 2024 has been announced!
It's happening on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 10:00 AM PT.
The tagline is "AI for All." Expect to hear lots about Samsung's Android 15 fork, ie. One UI 7.0, and generative AI.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/046/301/329/136/323/original/aa9266f6a8df4803.png

2024-08-29 16:10:11

One of the best features of Microsoft's Phone Link app is no longer exclusive to Samsung phones:
Instant Hotspot, which quickly enables the hotspot on your phone so your PC can get connected, now works on some OnePlus phones.
Details below👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/android-instant-hotspot-windows-pc-3476424/

2024-08-28 20:58:05

- reply

I haven't experienced this issue yet on my own Z Fold 6, thankfully, and I've never had this issue on any other device. Though it's always worth warning about using cheap, low-quality chargers.
H/T Reddit user bassexpander on /r/Android for pointing this out.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/1f39o38/paint_peeling_from_fold_6_samsung_blames_3rd/

2024-08-28 20:57:59

PSA: Samsung is warning that some third-party chargers may cause the paint to peel on your Galaxy Z Fold 6.
"When you are holding a phone that is being charged with a high-speed third-party charger that is not properly grounded, the leakage current can affect the anodisation ... which may slightly delaminate the paint."
https://www.samsung.com/ca/support/mobile-devices/third-party-products-causing-paint-to-peel-off-galaxy-devices/
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/041/648/943/951/143/original/97cf552646ac0648.png

2024-08-28 20:44:42

- reply

The base Pixel 9 is really nice, and I look forward to trying out the Pixel 9 Pro once my order ships next month.
I'll probably stick with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and/or OnePlus Open as my daily driver, though.

2024-08-28 20:40:23

If you're wondering what device a lot of tech influencers are vaguely posting about receiving/not receiving today, it's the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Don't expect to see any reviews on it until next week, though.
I've love to compare one with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 someday!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/041/579/641/586/215/original/bb51fb69a429738b.png

2024-08-28 18:10:29

Sending files from your Android phone to your Windows PC is now even easier with a recent Link to Windows update.
Your Windows PCs can now appear directly on the Android share sheet.
Details + a screenshot can be found in this article: https://www.androidauthority.com/share-files-windows-pc-android-share-sheet-3476077/

2024-08-28 16:34:10

- reply

10m, 1m, and 5m aren't the only timers that can appear in the widget. If you set a 2m timer manually, for example, then the widget will show 2m as an option for next time. 10m, 1m, and 5m are just the defaults.

2024-08-28 16:27:02

The Google Clock app is rolling out a new Timer Starter widget.
This widget lets you start a timer right from your home screen.
Handy for when you need to start a timer for a routine task, like brewing your morning coffee.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/040/582/846/657/922/original/57db00e5b85853de.png
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/040/583/385/123/532/original/986676616df33704.png

2024-08-28 16:23:40

The Google Play Store is (once again) rolling out simultaneous downloads support!
With this change, the app store can download multiple app updates at the same time.
Google rolled this out a couple of times in the past, but they've pulled the feature before, so hopefully that doesn't happen this time.
Thanks to _ultranoob_ on Telegram for the tip!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/040/569/163/573/904/original/bdbacbe3697eba1c.jpg

2024-08-28 16:08:48

I broke down the news about Android 15's launch date & upcoming features in Android 15 QPR1 on last night's Android Faithful. Give it a listen!
Also: We're going to Droidcon NY! If you're gonna be at the event next month, hit me up! We'll be doing interviews/hanging out.
https://www.androidfaithful.com/episode/dont-throw-rocks-at-chipsets-android-faithful-59/

2024-08-27 19:10:22

- reply

@npub1u55…6c8n It should

2024-08-27 19:09:59

- reply

@npub1lxh…s2uf It's me, not a bot.

2024-08-27 16:42:08

- reply

In the future, I'm betting a lot of these ML models will be run in VMs, further isolating them. In fact, that's one of the things that the Android Virtualization Framework team has pitched to developers - being able to securely run proprietary ML models in a VM. And AOSP has just added flags for assigning TPUs to protected VMs, so we're getting there.

2024-08-27 16:42:05

If you unlock the bootloader of your Google Pixel 9 as I did, AICore refuses to download the Gemini Nano with multimodality model, breaking core features of the Pixel Screenshots app, Call Notes, and AI weather reports in Pixel Weather.
Pixel Studio doesn't use Gemini Nano, so it still mostly works.
Not surprising, but Google doesn't want people snooping around and messing with these features/the model.
https://www.androidauthority.com/pixel-ai-features-unavailable-bootloader-unlocked-3475527/

2024-08-27 16:26:32

Here's a first look at Android 15 QPR1's revamped keyboard switcher!
The new keyboard switcher is faster, more one-handed friendly, and has a cleaner design.
A video of this new keyboard switcher can be found👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/android-15-keyboard-switcher-revamp-3475688/

2024-08-27 00:16:24

- reply

@npub1tv7…aesq I don't think so, but maybe

2024-08-26 17:14:00

- reply

The reason this is good news: More time to fix bugs and make the update more stable.
The reason this is bad news: I know a lot of y'all really don't like waiting for updates lol.

2024-08-26 17:11:55

The Android 15 source code is scheduled to be released next week, but the Pixel OTA update isn't planned to roll out at the same time.
More details can be found in my latest article for Android Authority: https://www.androidauthority.com/android-15-source-code-release-3475328/

2024-08-26 17:09:58

Waiting for the Android 15 update to roll out for your Pixel? I have some good and bad news:
Android 15 may have the longest gap - ever - between its source code drop and Pixel OTA release.
Full details on Android 15's release schedule can be found in my latest article for Android Authority: https://www.androidauthority.com/android-15-pixel-update-3475337/

2024-08-26 16:45:17

I've got some Android 15 news dropping in a bit that a lot of you won't like😬
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/029/330/414/165/879/original/87b77a4fbbefdad3.png

2024-08-26 16:43:05

- reply

@npub1twl…8plz yes

2024-08-24 17:44:08

- reply

RIP: https://www.notebookcheck.com/Laedt-ein-Handy-mit-Reverse-Wireless-Charging-auch-die-Zahnbuerste.415472.0.html

2024-08-24 17:40:52

Sweet: The Google Pixel 9 has a new "Adaptive Touch" feature, and it works REALLY well!
The Pixel 9 handles wet fingers way better than the Pixel 8 Pro, as you can see in the video embedded in this article: https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-9-adaptive-touch-feature-3474994/

2024-08-24 17:27:18

- reply

H/T to FragmentedChicken for the idea, though. If this properly worked, I'd definitely bring my electric toothbrush on trips!

2024-08-24 17:27:14

- reply

There's a caveat with charging an electric toothbrush using your phone, though: Your phone might not detect that something is actually being charged and so to save battery, it'll automatically turn off reverse wireless charging.
So unfortunately I don't know if you can actually fully charge an electric toothbrush this way. Even if you could, you'd need to constantly turn reverse wireless charging back on, which is a huge pain.

2024-08-24 17:27:08

Never thought to try reverse wireless charging an electric toothbrush...but it might actually work lol.
Also neat: Just found out you can use the cover screen of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 while you're wirelessly charging another device!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/018/170/569/693/423/original/fb41869ad9aa3768.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/018/170/631/724/068/original/f3cf4388ceec4c8e.jpg

2024-08-23 21:53:52

There are SO many great Android phones like the Xiaomi MIX Flip that, sadly, don't support eSIM.
Thankfully, eSIMs don't actually have to be embedded in the device despite their name.
Just got my hands on what's likely the best eSIM adapter - more to say soon.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/113/013/557/133/952/180/original/6bd80b343570e588.jpg

2024-08-19 19:51:50

Google Chrome is readying support for Android 15's new screen sharing restrictions!
With this change, Chrome will automatically redact the entire content area from screen recordings/screen shares if sensitive form fields (like credit card or password entry) are detected.
H/T Leopeva64 for finding the Chrome flag.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/990/428/047/297/668/original/00559d5c6c639c1e.jpg

2024-08-19 19:08:46

- reply

For example, Google confirmed to Android Authority that the new Google Pixel 9 series supports Qi2 charging but not the Magnetic Power Profile (MPP), ie. it doesn't support magnetic charging.
https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-9-no-qi2-charging-3468035/

2024-08-19 18:59:45

- reply

Here's another fun fact: eSIMs aren't always embedded in your device, despite the name.

2024-08-19 18:58:44

- reply

To differentiate between magnetic (Qi v2.0 MPP) and non-magnetic (Qi v2.0 EPP) products, the WPC requires a different logo and specific verbiage to be included on the package: “This product is built using the latest Qi2 standard but may not include all available Qi2 features."
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/990/219/222/741/515/original/6eaee8f28d853f4b.png

2024-08-19 18:58:32

- reply

According to the Wireless Power Consortium, while most registered products certified to the Qi2 spec include magnets, some do not. These non-magnetic Qi2 products may use other methods for aligning chargers and receivers that differ from Qi2 products with magnets.

2024-08-19 18:58:24

The most important thing you thought you knew about Qi2 is wrong: Qi2 charging doesn't mean magnetic charging!
Today I learned that there are products that support Qi2 wireless charging but which DON'T have magnets. You likely thought magnetic charging was a requirement of Qi2, but that's definitely not the case!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/990/217/346/818/160/original/6f0d95455c88c450.png

2024-08-19 08:24:30

Google is winding down its Play Security Reward Program, which paid developers who found and disclosed vulnerabilities in popular Android apps.
More details on this program and why it's being shut down can be found 👇https://www.androidauthority.com/google-play-security-reward-program-winding-down-3472376/

2024-08-17 18:42:35

Evidently, Instant Hotspot support in Link to Windows is still a Samsung exclusive?
Did not know that was still the case; I thought other phones with LtW preinstalled supported it, too.
This + the app mirroring fix in One UI 6.1.1 makes my Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 the best Android device I have for Windows integration. That's not even mentioning the various integrations in One UI with Microsoft services like OneDrive.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/978/830/923/378/989/original/9fd5cbcca3f28db2.jpg

2024-08-17 00:48:41

- reply

A killer 3rd party use of both screens on a foldable has yet to emerge, and I'm wondering if one ever will given how few foldable device models exist and how few of them even support these APIs for 3P apps. I genuinely hope someone thinks of something cool, though!

2024-08-16 22:41:20

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is better than the original Pixel Fold in almost every aspect, including security:
Its face unlock is more secure than on the original.
More details on what this means can be found over on Android Police👇
https://www.androidpolice.com/pixel-9-pro-fold-secure-face-unlock/

2024-08-16 22:37:29

The Google TV Streamer is the first Android TV device to support Thread connectivity, but at launch, you won't be able to locally control your Thread smart home devices.
A Google TV product manager told me that's coming in the future, though.
More details in my latest article for Android Police👇
https://www.androidpolice.com/google-tv-streamer-local-thread-support/

2024-08-16 16:41:50

- reply

Theft detection lock is rolling out now for a limited number of users who signed up for the beta program in Brazil. It'll eventually roll out through Google Play Services on all Android 10+ devices.
Thanks to Rodrigo on Telegram for the tip and screenshots!

2024-08-16 16:41:41

Android's theft detection lock feature is finally starting to roll out!
The feature automatically locks your phone when it detects your phone has been snatched from your hand. It uses data from your phone's accelerometer and gyroscope and checks if common motions associated with theft are detected.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/972/693/274/865/841/original/21276201de0697ef.png
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/972/693/414/856/368/original/6fc857089da84f2e.png

2024-08-16 16:03:48

- reply

@npub1w5u…e58n There's going to be a new button in the bottom right hand corner of the Gemini window. The button is called "Open Gemini Live button" according to Talkback.

2024-08-16 16:00:39

Do you have a Chromecast with Google TV?
If so, some good news: I was told that the Android 14 OS update will eventually roll out for the Chromecast. I don't know when, but we at least know what features it'll bring.
More details👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/chromecast-with-google-tv-android-14-3472136/

2024-08-15 22:02:27

Google has doubled the wireless charging speed of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case.
I wonder how quickly Battery Share on the Pixel 9 will recharge the Buds Pro 2 case?
https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-buds-pro-2-wireless-charging-3471809/

2024-08-15 21:59:50

- reply

Don't worry: Pixel Screenshots will analyze your existing screenshot collection, too: https://androidpolice.com/pixel-screenshots-existing-images/
Pixel Screenshots can't be turned into a Microsoft Recall clone even if you try: https://www.androidauthority.com/pixel-screenshots-throttle-3472066/

2024-08-15 20:37:02

- reply

Storage location:
On Android: /Download/Send from my PC
On PC: /Downloads/Phone Link
I've been using this for a few weeks but didn't even know it was actually new until WindowsCentral reported on it. In fairness, I only recently started using Link to Windows more earnestly after getting the Galaxy Z Flip 6/Z Fold 6.
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/this-new-feature-is-basically-airdrop-but-for-windows-pcs-and-android

2024-08-15 17:07:49

The Google Home app is rolling out a new UI for controlling Nest thermostats!
This UI started rolling out gradually after the new Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) was announced last week, but I finally got it today for my 3rd Gen models.
I can finally ditch the Nest app.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/967/133/716/976/324/original/a671facb1c01d8ba.jpg

2024-08-15 17:02:32

Gemini Live is starting to roll out!
I just got it on my Galaxy Z Fold 6, without any spoofing/sideloading/etc.
You need to be a Gemini Advanced user to access it, though.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/967/112/748/970/303/original/5ad29208067f2b9a.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/967/112/853/045/849/original/b24cd7ede3239bb2.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/967/112/981/768/987/original/3e29954b7b411277.jpg

2024-08-14 23:52:36

One of my followers walked up to me at the Made by Google event yesterday and gave me this absolutely adorable 3D printed Android figure!
After seeing it I had to change the wallpaper on the Xiaomi MIX Flip cover screen, and it's now perfect!
Thanks Austin Murphy!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/963/056/547/236/967/original/1b51d6e941c21efa.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/963/056/763/046/654/original/6fc0dff5e7d67650.jpg

2024-08-14 16:58:00

In case you missed the Made by Google event yesterday, we've got a recap of all the news + our first impressions of the Pixel 9 series, Pixel Watch 3, Pixel Buds Pro 2, and Gemini Live!
You can listen to our latest episode of @npub1653…2u7q 👇
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfNPGi0wGCQ

2024-08-14 03:21:15

- reply

@npub1wma…j0p0 np

2024-08-14 03:21:03

- reply

@npub1jpa…n2qa nope, that's not available at launch, it wasn't talked about

2024-08-14 03:20:49

- reply

If you unenroll from the Android Beta Program now before QPR1 Beta 1 rolls out, you'll automatically get the stable public Android 15 release. If you don't unenroll, you'll get QPR1 Beta 1 instead.
If you want to exit the Beta program without wiping your device, opt out of the program and ignore the downgrade OTA upgrade that gets pushed to you. Wait for the stable public OTA then take that.

2024-08-14 03:20:39

The Android 15 QPR1 Beta is right around the corner!
With the release of Android 15 Beta 4.2 today, Google says the beta program for the first Android 15 Quarterly Platform Release (QPR1) will kick off soon.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/958/218/519/433/320/original/c5b63462d18aa71a.png

2024-08-13 18:22:50

- reply

Just bought the Google Pixel 9! Looking forward to receiving it so I can continue providing you the best coverage of the Android OS😁
If you want to support that work and plan to buy a Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, or 9 Pro Fold, use one of my affiliate links!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/956/104/186/335/336/original/3240cea185150f09.png

2024-08-13 18:13:45

This is huge:
Loss of Pulse Detection: A first-of-its-kind feature on Pixel Watch 3
https://blog.google/products/pixel/pixel-watch-3-loss-of-pulse-detection/

2024-08-13 17:56:51

Lastly: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 pre-order link!
Pixel Buds Pro 2: https://howl.link/3nncmhpiwy3y0
Once again, use my affiliate link to support my work 😄
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/956/001/882/420/984/original/e61dbec25ebc5d8b.png

2024-08-13 17:51:22

Pixel Watch 3 pre-order links!
Pixel Watch 3 (41mm/WiFi): https://howl.link/wa4ie7rg6kbmf
Pixel Watch 3 (45mm/WiFi): https://howl.link/0yojh8kg07dd5
Pixel Watch 3 (41mm/LTE): https://howl.link/zo1ns04gfwzvp
Pixel Watch 3 (45mm/LTE): https://howl.link/p9zv4tlxcw1nm
Use my affiliate links to support me :)
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/955/980/241/923/910/original/27afd7747976a384.png

2024-08-13 17:33:13

Google Pixel 9 pre-orders are live!
Pixel 9: https://howl.link/zplytxgjachqz
Pixel 9 Pro: https://howl.link/37k492400hbbt
Pixel 9 Pro XL: https://howl.link/9rou3lqmgn5w0
Pixel 9 Pro Fold: https://howl.link/vl2he0tr22lga
Please use my affiliate links to support me digging into Pixel/Android updates!
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/955/908/874/912/680/original/69542f1c882f1bb6.png

2024-08-13 17:11:10

The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are the EXACT same size and weight, so is it worth spending $200 more to grab the Pro?
Here are 12 key differences between the 9 and 9 Pro that you should know about if you're in the market for either👇
https://www.androidfaithful.com/google-pixel-9-vs-pixel-9-pro/

2024-08-13 17:06:22

Gemini Live is ... live! That super cool, more conversational version of Gemini that Google teased us with at I/O is now here, along with new extensions and updates to the Android app.
I've got some videos of these Gemini updates in the article linked👇
https://www.androidfaithful.com/gemini-live/

2024-08-13 17:04:47

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is here, and it fixes the biggest issues with the OG Pixel Fold!
🟥 Inner screen is closer to a square
⏩ Tensor G4 instead of G2
🔄 7 years of OS updates instead of 3 years
✂️Even thinner
More on what you need to know👇
https://www.androidfaithful.com/google-pixel-9-pro-fold/

2024-08-13 17:04:11

The Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL are finally OFFICIAL!
💡3000 nits peak brightness on Pro
📷 8K30 video via Video Boost on Pro
📱 7 years of updates
🤙 Tensor G4 w/ Satellite SOS
✨ New Magic Editor features
All the details👇
https://www.androidfaithful.com/google-pixel-9/

2024-08-13 16:16:24

I'm here at the Made By Google event to see the new Google Pixel 9 (and other devices)!
Particularly interested in trying out the new Fold, but also... WHERE CAN I GET THAT GIANT BOT HOLDING A COFFEE CUP?
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/955/604/971/930/875/original/1831ff0e1d5e5e67.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/955/605/466/642/694/original/fce62ee1f5e52e49.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/955/606/450/145/008/original/4df2d15f039a2822.jpg

2024-08-12 14:50:51

- reply

To clarify, this seemingly gives you the choice of whether you want to update a sideloaded app from the Play Store.
Before, it would just do it, especially if said app's updates weren't claimed ownership over by another app store.

2024-08-12 14:37:22

- reply

Android 14 introduced an update ownership API that lets app stores claim ownership over future updates for an app. This could be a way for the Play Store to reclaim update ownership, with the user's consent of course.
Let me know if you also see this in the Play Store!

2024-08-09 18:16:35

- reply

Google is recommending developers migrate from NNAPI to either TensorFlow Lite in Google Play Services, which provides an updatable TF runtime for custom on-device ML models, or to the new AICore service in Android 14+, which provides updatable GenAI foundation models like Gemini Nano.
Source: https://developer.android.com/ndk/guides/neuralnetworks/migration-guide

2024-08-09 18:16:18

Google says the Neural Networks API (NNAPI) will be deprecated in Android 15.
NNAPI was introduced in Android 8.1 to "provide a unified interface for hardware accelerated inference for on-device machine learning." Google cites the rapid pace of on-device machine learning breakthroughs as the reason for deprecating NNAPI, which was updated along with new Android version releases.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/933/429/098/129/618/original/0a37368754d8c63c.png

2024-08-09 16:20:44

Microsoft did it: They fixed Link to Windows on Android!
You no longer have to tap the "start now" button every time you want to stream an app from your phone to your PC.
In One UI 6.1.1, Link to Windows now uses Android's native app streaming APIs.
https://www.androidauthority.com/one-ui-6-1-1-streaming-apps-windows-3469490/

2024-08-08 22:14:12

So...this is interesting. Google is testing new Wear OS 5.1 builds out on the Pixel Watch 2, and they're surprisingly based on Android 15 rather than Android 14.
More details on what this could mean👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/wear-os-5-1-android-15-3469455/

2024-08-08 20:32:53

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 support Google's Gemini Nano LLM, but what is it actually used for? It turns out, it's only used for a single feature right now, and it's not any of the Galaxy AI ones.
More details can be found 👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/galaxy-z-fold-6-flip-6-gemini-nano-3469398/

2024-08-08 16:29:03

The Google TV Streamer is the first device to run Android 14 for TVs.
Android 14 for TV, ie. Android TV 14, brings improvements to power efficiency, accessibility, performance, multitasking, remote control, and networking.
More details can be found👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/google-tv-streamer-android-14-for-tvs-3469245/

2024-08-08 16:10:42

A sad day: Branch, the company that acquired Nova Launcher ~2 years ago, has laid off many of the great people working on/for it, including Cliff Wade (their CM), Rob (one of their developers), and many others.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/927/272/543/797/521/original/ca0cc6ee9b51a36d.png

2024-08-08 01:18:55

- reply

Here's the UI for adding a note to a regular YouTube video.
I don't see a way to add a note to a short, though.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/923/766/345/068/788/original/8dcc945955091a19.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/923/766/506/863/854/original/319e9772ada16008.jpg

2024-08-07 22:33:37

Lock screen widget support will only be available on tablets running Android 15, but what would happen if you enabled the feature anyway on a phone?
Surprisingly, it actually looks and works pretty well!
A video of this feature on phones can be found in this article I wrote for Android Authority: https://www.androidauthority.com/android-15-lock-screen-widgets-on-phones-3469000/

2024-08-07 19:58:23

The first alpha release of the Jetpack PDF library (androidx.pdf) is out!
https://developer.android.com/jetpack/androidx/releases/pdf#1.0.0-alpha01
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/922/505/652/359/741/original/69d91235ef2c99c0.jpg

2024-08-07 18:26:24

- reply

There's a waitlist and your account needs to meet some basic eligibility requirements.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/922/144/250/811/875/original/d47ee6295dcc104e.jpg

2024-08-07 18:23:46

Got invited to try out YouTube's new Community Notes-like feature.
This is a great idea; the platform definitely needs more ways to fact check videos.
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/922/133/630/859/345/original/805d4a8a830e7922.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/922/133/788/844/907/original/664be1328880e5d8.jpg
https://cdn.masto.host/androiddevsocial/media_attachments/files/112/922/133/984/574/689/original/0397b1f3df8a8dbb.png

2024-08-07 15:31:20

- reply

We went hands-on with the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus in last night's episode of the Android Faithful podcast, by the way! Skip to 00:51:52 for the hands-on from Jason Howell.
https://www.androidfaithful.com/episode/chromecast-is-dead-long-live-chromecast-android-faithful-episode-56/

2024-08-07 15:30:09

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is now available for purchase in the U.S. though the nothing "Beta" program! The gray color with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage is on sale for $399.
Just be warned that carrier support is quite limited (full details available in the linked article).
https://www.androidfaithful.com/nothing-phone-2a-plus/

2024-08-07 15:28:00

- reply

Rest of the specs are the same as the base model, including 16GB RAM and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
It'll go on sale from 9AM ET tomorrow for $1,899.99 USD / $2,599.99 CAD but the code 1TBFORLIFE knocks $300 USD / $300 CAD off. You can also trade in any device in any condition for another $100 USD / $100 CAD off. The base black/green model has been temporarily reduced in price to $1,399.99 USD. Buying either will get you a free pair of the OnePlus Buds Pro 2.

2024-08-07 14:56:38

Samsung DeX can run directly on Galaxy tablets... so why wouldn't Android 15's revamped desktop mode be able to run directly on the Pixel Tablet?
It turns out, it can. Here's a first look at Android 15's desktop mode running on-device 👇
https://www.androidauthority.com/android-15-desktop-mode-tablets-3468619/