Android
Created by Google, Android is a smartphone OS and platform that is open-source and open for any manufacturer to use to make a smartphone. Most Android phones use a version that is mostly provided by Google and requires Google services. Android phones can run Android apps, available from the Google Play Store, or, optionally, from other sources.
by: Google
Google Kills Instant Apps
Google is shutting down an Android feature that let users quickly download and use a temporary "mini" version of an app, instead of installing the full app. Instant Apps were not popular with developers, but were useful for game trials or one-time transactions. Google first announced Instant Apps in 2016 and launched it to developers in 2017. Google's newest developer tools include a warning that "Instant Apps support will be removed by Google Play in December 2025".
Google Makes Open-Source Android Development More Difficult
Google is taking away a key resource that made it easier for third parties to develop non-Google versions of the Android OS for smartphones. Specifically, Google will no longer publish an "example" version of AOSP (Android Open Source Project) that works as-is on its Pixel phones. Instead, Google will only publish a generic version of AOSP that, as published, only works on a generic virtual device called "Cuttlefish". This means developers working with AOSP no longer have a simple starting point that works on physical hardware. Going forward, developers will need to do significant work just to get AOSP running on any real-world device, before working on whatever they want to customize about the OS. Google's move may be particularly painful for the developers of alternative OSes (based on AOSP) that run on Pixel phones, such as LineageOS, GrapheneOS, and CalyxOS.
Android 16 Exits Beta, Now Available on Pixels
Google has put the finishing touches on Android version 16, ending the beta period for the OS. It is now available for Google Pixel phones and will roll out to other brands soon. Notifications get a big update, with the introduction of Live Updates. This new type of notification is dynamic instead of static, updating in real time with progress info. This feature is aimed primarily at ride-share and food delivery apps for now. Also, multiple notifications from the same app will now always appear grouped together, to reduce clutter. Advanced Protection is now a setting available to everyone, instead of a program that requires enrollment. This feature locks down your phone with "an array of robust device security features that protect you from online attacks, harmful apps, unsafe websites, scam calls and more." Android 16 also lays the groundwork for more new features coming "later this year", such as the new desktop mode adapted from Samsung DeX, and "more Material 3 Expressive design updates".
Sonim XP Pro Launches on AT&T
After initially launching with Verizon in November, Sonim's XP Pro is now available from AT&T as well. The XP Pro is a rugged Android smartphone with a much sleeker profile than the company's previous rugged smartphones. It has a good upper-mid-range specs, a large portfolio of available accessories, and is manufactured in Taiwan. Sonim recently announced a version of the XP Pro with an integrated FLIR thermal camera, that will come to the US later this year. Sonim also recently launched the XP3plus 5G on T-Mobile, which also adds 5G — among other upgrades — to its main flip-phone model.
Samsung Details its Next Big Software Update
Samsung has announced One UI 8, its customized version of Android 16. The software is now available in beta for the Galaxy S25 series, with a final version debuting first on new Samsung foldable phones this summer, then rolling out to other Galaxy devices in the following months. One UI 8 includes a new Reminder app, designed to let you "manage all your reminders in one place". You can add items via voice, and "share a list of to-dos ... with the press of a button." The software also makes it easier to connect earbuds to Bluetooth Auracast audio streams via QR codes. Samsung has worked closely with Google to accelerate development and make "One UI 8 one of the first UI platforms to adopt Android 16."
Samsung DeX Merged Into Android 16
In Google's developer keynote address at its I/O event this week, the company announced that it will bring the desktop-mode feature of high-end Samsung phones to Android 16. Google and Samsung have been working together on the new feature, which is built "on the foundation of Samsung DeX to bring enhanced desktop windowing capabilities in Android 16 for more powerful productivity workflows." The feature lets an Android phone work more like a desktop computer when plugged into an external display. Apps are displayed in resizable windows and users can add a full keyboard and mouse. Google is pushing Android app developers to make their apps "adaptive", or more smoothly compatible with a larger variety of screen shapes and sizes, including this new desktop mode.
Google "Find Hub" Replaces Find My Device
Google is revamping its find-my-device services into a new Find Hub. The new features will be able to find a lost Android device, or anything with a Google-compatible Bluetooth tracker attached. It can also be used to keep to share your location with family and friends. It's also gaining support for UWB (for high-end phones with that feature). Motorola's Bluetooth trackers will be the first to work with UWB. This feature lets you locate your lost item very precisely — including not just proximity but direction — when nearby. Finally, Google is working to integrate satellite connectivity into Find Hub, "helping you stay connected with friends and family even when you don’t have cellular connectivity."
Google Expands Scam Detection on Android Using AI
Google is adding new types of scam detection and protection using on-device AI on Android. Android can already detect scams in progress and warn users in phone calls and messages. Now, the Chrome browser can detect scam-related notifications from web sites. Soon, Google also plans to apply this type of scam detection to whole web sites in Chrome. Google is already rolling this feature out to the desktop version of Chrome, but says "Our goal is to expand this protection to Android devices and even more types of scams in the future."
Android's New Design Guidelines Leaked
Google seems to have accidentally, prematurely published a blog post about its new "Material 3 Expressive" design guidelines for Android. The new templates feature a bolder design with floating toolbars, larger buttons, more color, and more varied shapes and fonts. These guidelines are used by Google for Android itself and its own Google apps, but are also suggested for third-party app developers. Google says the new system is the fruit of extensive research, including "46 separate research studies with hundreds of designs, and more than 18,000 participants from around the world". Google claims multiple benefits, including users being able to perform certain actions up to 4x faster, as well as strong user preference (vs. Apple's iOS Human Interface Guidelines) and "brand coolness".
Android Now Supports Digital Credentials Among Apps and Websites
Google announced that the Credential Manager component of Android now supports the OpenID4 industry standard for digital credentials. Android's implementation extends existing digital state ID technology to the whole Android ecosystem, allowing any Android app to issue a digital credential to one or more wallet apps, and any app or web site to request a verifiable credential. The Android OS will now manage such requests with a new interface that lets a user choose among matching credential types from across all installed wallet apps. These credential types can include not just state IDs, but education certifications, insurance policies, memberships, permits, loyalty programs, and more. Companies and apps already onboard include CVS, MyChart by Epic, Uber, Bumble, Samsung Wallet, 1Password, and, of course, Google Wallet.
Two New "Mindful" Phones Sport E-Paper Displays
This month, both Minimal and Mudita have launched new minimalist phones that are designed to discourage excessive screen time primarily by having the main touch display use e-ink / e-paper display technology, which is typically slow to refresh and does not work well with scrolling. The Mudita Kompakt takes a traditional approach of a custom OS with limited features, including calling, texting, camera, e-reader, and maps. A switch on the side activates "Offline+" mode, which cuts off the cellular modem and microphones at the hardware level. It has a 4.3-inch display, 3,300 mAh battery with up to 6 days of standby battery life, wireless charging, 32 GB of expandable storage, 3.5mm headset jack, 8 megapixel camera, and IP54 dust/water rating. A version specifically for North America will starting shipping in May for $439. The Minimal Phone takes a different approach, with a full version of Android, including Google's Play Store, plus a physical QWERTY keyboard. It also has a 4.3-inch display, 3.5mm headset jack, and expandable storage. Besides the QWERTY keyboard, it also has a touch "navigation bar" between the display and keyboard, plus a 5 megapixel front camera. It also has NFC supporting Google Pay, a 16 megapixel main camera, fingerprint reader in the side lock button, and comes in either 6 / 128 GB or 8 / 256 GB memory configurations. It also ships in May, starting at $399 for pre-orders for a limited time ($499 normally). These phones join the same growing category as the Light Phone III, launched last month.
Google Rolls Out Free Gemini Live with Vision to All Android Users
Google is expanding the free version of its Gemini AI app for Android to include Gemini Live with camera and screen share. This lets you ask Gemini about anything on your phone's screen, or anything your phone's camera can see.
Spectrum and Xfinity Launch Satellite SOS and Messaging
Spectrum Mobile and Xfinity Mobile have both launched emergency messaging via satellite for the Samsung Galaxy S25 series and Google Pixel 9 series Android phones. In the coming weeks, they will also launch non-emergency text messaging via satellite. The service offers basic connectivity in cellular dead zones, and uses the NTN satellite feature of those specific phones. Both Spectrum and Xfinity use Verizon's network, and Verizon enabled non-emergency satellite messaging just yesterday. All three companies rely on Skylo to provide this satellite service. NTN is an industry standard and specific technology found only in some phones, that lets a phone communicate directly with existing satellite networks, much like Apple's proprietary satellite features on iPhone. Other satellite services for phones (Starlink and AST SpaceMobile) offer greater phone compatibility, but require new satellites to be launched.
Apple Pledges to Support Encryption in New RCS Standard
The RCS industry standard for enhanced messaging has been updated to officially support standardized End-to-End Encryption (E2EE). Further, Apple has committed to support it in future implementations of RCS in iOS. This will greatly improve the security and privacy of cross-platform messaging between iPhones and Android phones. Google launched its own implementation of E2EE for RCS in 2020, but the feature was not officially part of the RCS standard until now, with GSMA's RCS Universal Profile 3.0. That is why Google's E2EE feature only worked when both parties were using Google's Messages app. Now, this standardized version of E2EE should enable it for more RCS conversations. Apple has not committed to a specific timeline for adding E2EE to RCS.
Android Gaining Support for Auracast with Newer Bluetooth Hearing Aids
The newest beta version of Android introduces a new feature that lets certain supported phones — such as the Pixel 9 series — use Auracast with Bluetooth hearing aids that support it. Auracast is a broadcast audio technology that lets many Bluetooth audio devices (such as earbuds and hearing aids) tune in to the same audio source at one time. The technology is starting to roll out in places like train stations, theaters, and gyms. Auracast is an optional part of LE Audio, the new Bluetooth audio standard. Samsung has also enabled Auracast for compatible hearing aids with its One UI 7 software on Galaxy devices. Google is also adding a feature to Pixel phones that lets users tune in to a specific local Auracast stream by a scanning a QR code. Last year, Google added Auracast info to Google Maps, to help people find nearby locations that offer the technology.
Android 16 Hits Critical Milestone Toward Release
The third public beta version of Android 16 is available now, and brings "platform stability", which means developers can begin finalizing and releasing apps that are specifically designed to be compatible with Android 16. The final version of Android 16 is expected as soon as May.
Advanced AI Scam Detection Comes to Google Messages
Google is enhancing its Messages app (the default Android app for RCS and SMS) with on-device AI to detect scam conversations and alert users. While the app already detects obvious spam and up-front scams, the new feature tracks ongoing conversations that may seem to have started as innocent conversations, but then turn to the scam phase. The feature is the result of Google partnering with financial institutions around the world to understand how the newest scams work.
TCL Gives More Detail on 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G
First teased at CES, TCL's next NXTPAPER phone for the US now has more confirmed specs. We now know that it will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, and have expandable storage plus a 3.5mm headphone jack. The US version will come with more memory than the Canadian version: 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage*. It will have a 5,010 mAh battery and come with an 18W charger. Also on board are NFC, a fingerprint reader, Bluetooth 5.3, and Android 15. Back in January, TCL revealed that the phone would have a large 6.78" display with FHD+ resolution and 120 Hz refresh. As a NXTPAPER phone, the display has a unique matte finish and a special "e-paper" mode, which on this model can be activated with a dedicated switch on the side. We also knew that that the main camera would be 50 megapixel and the front camera 32 megapixel. Now we know that the other cameras are a 5 megapixel wide-angle cam and a depth camera for portrait mode. The 60 XE is slated to come to Canada this spring, and the US soon after. *Memory specs were later revised down.
Clicks Keyboard Case Comes to Android
Clicks, the phone case that adds a physical QWERTY keyboard to the bottom of your phone, is expanding to offer models for several popular models of Android phones. (Clicks was previously only available for iPhones.) The new case models are for the Samsung Galaxy S25, Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro, and the Motorola razr+. While all models expand screen real estate by moving the keyboard off the display, this benefit is perhaps most acute for the outer display of the Motorola razr+. Each is available in "Onyx" black or another bright color (Pinot red for Samsung, Surge yellow for Google, and Electric blue for Motorola). All three are available for $99 in special pre-order pricing until March 21st ($139 after that date). Expected shipping dates vary by model, ranging from April 30 for the Google version to "after June" for the Pinot color for Samsung.
Amazon Ditching Appstore for Android
Amazon has announced that it is killing off its Appstore on Android as of August 20, 2025. After after that date, apps purchased from the Amazon Appstore on Android may no longer function. The Appstore could be side-loaded onto Android devices and offered an alternative to Google's Play app store. The Amazon Appstore was also the primary source of apps for Microsoft's Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), which enabled Windows 11 devices to run Android apps. Microsoft is ending support for WSA on March 5, 2025.
Apple Brings Apple TV+ to Android
Apple has launched an Android version of its Apple TV app, allowing people to watch the Apple TV+ and MLS Season Pass streaming services on their Android device. Apple TV+ includes Apple original TV shows like Severance, Slow Horses, Masters of the Air, and Ted Lasso, as well as original films like Wolfs and Killers of the Flower Moon. MLS Season Pass streams every Major League Soccer match, for all 30 clubs, with no blackouts. Apple TV is available now from the Google Play app store.
Google Makes Useful Parental Controls Part of Android
Google has announced a major update to its Family Link service that adds "School Time" and parent-managed contacts for Android phones. This brings Family Link much closer to a complete service for parents, that previously would have required a third-party Android device with specialized software, such as a Pinwheel or Bark phone. School Time lets parents set a schedule for extra restrictions during school hours to reduce distractions, with custom exceptions for apps that may be useful at school. Family Link also lets parents manage screen time, apps, web sites, and videos. It also includes location tracking. While Family Link can manage kids' "supervised" Google accounts, Google also announced a new AI-powered system that will attempt to guess the age of any Google account holder. This will enable Google to deliver an age-appropriate experience even for accounts that kids create on their own.
The First Beta Version of Android 16 is Here
Google has released the first test version of Android 16 for curious early adopters and developers. One of the biggest new features is Live Updates, intended to "help users monitor and quickly access important ongoing activities", specifically, "progress-centric user journeys: rideshare, delivery, and navigation." Android 16 also introduces support for the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, which offers "professional level" video capture features. Another major change is requiring apps to adapt their layouts to larger screens when used on foldables and tablets. Developers can still opt-out in some cases, but will not be able to opt out in the next major release, in 2026. This release of Android will be the biggest update of 2025, and is slated for final public release some time after April (possibly in May, if testing goes well). Google also plans Android updates in every other quarter of the year, with the fourth quarter update bringing new APIs and features, and the first- and third-quarter updates being smaller "features only" updates. Google cautions that Android 16 is still in active development and the beta is not recommended for anyone's primary phone. Anyone with an eligible Pixel device can enroll in the beta program, but it is not possible to switch back to Android 15 without completely wiping the device and erasing all data.
Galaxy S25 Series Supports Satellite SOS, But Only on Verizon
As previously announced by Verizon, the new Samsung Galaxy S25 series will support NTN satellite SOS service in remote areas of the US without land-based cellular service. The service works similarly to Apple's "Emergency SOS via satellite" feature. Verizon notes that the service "might not work in parts of Alaska". Verizon has partnered with Skylo to offer this service. Google's Pixel 9 series of phones also supports this technology and Verizon will provide it for those phones as well, bringing its flagship Android phones up to par with iPhones in this aspect. Unlike Google, Samsung has not announced plans to enable this service for non-Verizon customers. Verizon is also working with AST SpaceMobile to being satellite connectivity to all existing phones, but AST's service may not be fully operational until the end of 2026. Therefore this service from Verizon brings similar functionality to at least some of its Android phones now.
Club Quarters Hotels Support Digital Room Keys on any Smartphone
Club Quarters has completed rolling out digital room keys across all of its hotel locations, with a solution that supports mobile wallets on both Apple iPhones and Google Android phones. This marks a first in the hotel industry. Club Quarters first rolled out digital room keys via its own app in 2017. Now, "arriving guests can easily receive their room key by downloading it from their check-in confirmation email and adding it to a digital wallet on their Apple or Android device." Digital room keys are automatically activated during online check-in, and automatically updated if a guest extends their stay. They also provide access to property amenities like the fitness center. Club Quarters' implementation is compatible with Express Mode and Power Reserve on iPhone, so the digital room key will continue to work for up to five hours after a phone has turned "off" due to low battery. Hyatt started rolling out digital room keys for iPhones in late 2021.
Qi2 Wireless Charging Gains Momentum with Samsung Adoption, New Features
The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) provided a status update on the Qi2 wireless charging standard. Samsung has committed to including Qi2 in Samsung Galaxy Android devices in 2025. Android phone makers have previously been slow to adopt the standard. Apple iPhones include Qi2, which is based on a combination of the original Qi and Apple's MagSafe. Qi2 uses magnets for better alignment, and supports faster 15-watt charging. WPC announced that Qi v2.1 will include a "Qi2 Ready" designation for phones and phone cases. When a Qi2 Ready phone is used with its corresponding Qi2 Ready case, the combination will fully support Qi2. The Qi v2.1 specification will also include support for a moving coil in automotive applications. Instead of relying on magnets for alignment, the coil built into the car would physically move as it "looks for the phone's exact location, so it can lock in a perfect connection every time". WPC also mentioned Qi v2.2, which will include "high-power wireless charging technology" contributed by Google. Google says it "is committed to the Qi2 wireless charging standard and increasing the penetration of Qi2 into Android handsets", but stopped short of promising to include the tech in its own Pixel phones this year.
The Motorola/Bullitt Satellite Dongle is Now the HMD Offgrid
Following the collapse of Bullitt a year ago, HMD has picked up the rights to the Motorola Defy Satellite Link, and will release a tweaked version called the HMD Offgrid. The small Bluetooth device gives any Android or iPhone satellite connectivity where cellular service isn't available. HMD claims to have enhanced the service with better coverage, better plans, and new enterprise features. They also redesigned the SOS button to reduce accidental presses. The basic functions are otherwise similar. It can automatically share live location data with up to five contacts. Its messaging function works from the dedicated app, but you can text any phone number, and messages you send come from your phone number. It can be configured to share location at intervals from every three minutes to four hours. With 30 minute intervals, the 600 mAh battery can last at least three days. The device is rated IP68 and military-grade rugged. In the US, service is available up to 70 miles from shore (coverage includes Hawaii and Alaska). The Offgrid connects to the Viasat network through a partnership with Skylo. Focus Point handles SOS response, and they have partnered with Overwatch X for rescue operations when necessary (at no additional charge). The device goes on sale this month for $199 from hmd.com. Service plans start at $80/year for the "Freedom" plan which includes unlimited manual check-ins and 350 messages. Live tracking costs 10¢ per ping. A higher-end "Unlimited" plan runs $15/month for unlimited messages, check-ins, and SOS services. Live tracking can be added to that plan for $5/month. Activation fees may also apply.
Samsung Intros Entry-Level Phone for 2025: the Galaxy A16 5G
Samsung has announced the Galaxy A16 5G, the company's primary entry-level 5G model for the year, retailing for $200. The phone launches in one week, on January 9th. Key improvements compared to the A15 it replaces include a larger display (6.7" FHD+ AMOLED instead of 6.5"), and IP54 dust/splash resistance rating. It also switches to a Samsung Exynos 1330 processor chip instead of a MediaTek chip. Other specs remain similar, including a 5,000 mAh battery with 25W fast charging, 50 megapixel main camera, 5 megapixel wide camera, 13 megapixel front camera, 4 GB RAM, 128 GB storage (expandable), and NFC. The A16 comes with Android 14 and a promise of 6 generations of OS upgrades and 6 years of security updates. The A15 was offered by nearly every wireless carrier in the US, and the A16 is expected to receive similarly wide distribution. Samsung offers two color choices: Blue Black and Light Gray. For a limited time, Samsung is offering 50% off the new Galaxy Fit3 fitness tracker (normally $60) when you purchase both devices together from samsung.com.
Android Gains More Robust Protection Against Unknown Bluetooth Trackers
Google today announced three new upgrades to help Android users deal with unknown Bluetooth tracking devices (potentially used for stalking and other surreptitious location tracking.) Both Android and iOS will detect an unknown Bluetooth tracking device making the same movements as a phone, and show an "unknown tracker" alert to the user. This detection is now cross-platform, thanks to a multi-year effort by Google and Apple. Recently, Google tweaked this technology to make these alerts happen "faster and more often." Second, Find Nearby now works with unknown trackers, to interactively help you pinpoint the tracking device quickly and precisely. Previously, users could only see its general location on a map and make it play a sound. Apple made similar changes to iOS in 2022. Finally, a new option lets users "Temporarily Pause Location" on your phone for up to 24 hours. Since Bluetooth trackers rely on other nearby Bluetooth devices — like your own phone — to track location, this prevents your own phone from being used against you, until you can find and disable the unwanted tracking device.
Google Reveals New Features in December's Pixel Feature Drop
Google's December software update for Pixel devices includes a long list of small new features. You can now ask Gemini Advanced to remember things about you to improve its responses. This "saved info" feature can remember things like if you're a vegetarian. Foldable devices now support Dual Screen, which puts the real-time viewfinder on both displays at the same time. The relatively new Pixel Screenshots app now automatically categorizes your screenshots and lets you apply filters when searching. It also adds new suggested actions, Like creating a calendar invite, getting directions, or adding a ticket to Google Wallet. The Recorder app has a new "Clear voice" option that reduces background noise. A new Simple View mode "increases your phone’s font size and touch sensitivity, making it easier to see and use controls, apps and widgets." A new Identity Check anti-theft feature automatically requires biometric authentication to change sensitive settings when it detects that you're in a new location. Other features and apps getting minor improvements include Gboard, Gemini Live, Call Screen, Made You Look, Emoji Kitchen, Circle to Search, Now Playing, Instagram, and Snapchat. Google also announced several new features coming to both Pixel and non-Pixel Android devices this month.
Google Announces Several New Android Features
Google is rolling out multiple new or enhanced features for Android outside of the version-number update cycle. While many involve Google's Gemini AI, the features address disparate functionality.
- Expressive Captions is a major update to the existing Live Caption feature of Android. It adds emotion, nuance, and context to captions. Human noises like sighing, grunting, and gasping will now be spelled out. Emphasis will be noted in all-caps. Finally, ambient sounds like applause will be noted. Live Caption works at the OS level, across all apps that output sound.
- Quick Share now supports fast connections between phones using just QR codes. This eliminates the need to add the other person as a contact, verify devices, or change sharing settings, just to send a file to a nearby device.
- Google Drive can now auto-enhance document scans. When using your phone's camera to add a new file to Drive, the enhance button will now detect things like documents, receipts, ID cards, and automatically straighten, improve contrast and white balance, and remove shadows and blurring. You can then save in the format of your choice, such as PDF.
- Google is also adding new Extensions to Gemini that link to more functionality across apps. This includes calling and messaging your contacts, setting alarms, changing phone settings, using the camera, and controlling Spotify. Soon, you'll also be able to use Gemini to control smart home devices, and get more information about places on Maps.
Sonim XP Pro is a Sleeker Rugged Phone
Sonim and Verizon have launched the Sonim XP Pro 5G, a new rugged smartphone that's significantly slimmer and sleeker than Sonim's previous models. The $550 phone is rated IP68 and IPX9K1 for water and dust. It also meets military durability standards for temperature/humidity, thermal shock, mechanical shock/drop/vibration, water, and solar radiation. It also carries non-incendive ratings for environments where flammability is concern. Like most Sonim phones, it comes with a robust accessory ecosystem, including rugged headsets, vehicle kits, multi-bay chargers, and more. A loud dual-speaker system offers 100+ dB of volume for clear sound in loud environments. The phone sports two customizable shortcut buttons that can be assigned to functions like PTT and SOS. It also comes with a 3-year warranty, and Sonim promises OS updates through Android 16. For customers with supply chain / national security concerns, the XP Pro is manufactured in Taiwan. The XP Pro supports Verizon's "Ultra Wideband" mmWave 5G. The 6.6 FHD+ display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus II and works with gloves. The phone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB storage (expandable by up to 2 TB). It has a 5,000 mAh battery and support both wireless charging and fast charging. It has a 50 megapixel main camera and 13 megapixel wide-angle camera. It supports Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, and fingerprint security. The Sonim XP Pro 5G is available from Verizon starting today for $550.
Department of Justice Seeks to Separate Chrome and Google Search from Android
The Department of Justice has officially requested that Google sell off its Chrome web browser and stop making Google the default search engine in web browsers and on phones, including both Android phones and iPhones. The request is the DoJ's proposed remedy in an ongoing federal anti-trust case in which the court has already found Google guilty of maintaining an abusive monopoly. Google would further be barred from favoring its own services — such as its Gemini AI and YouTube — in Android. The DoJ also wants Google to be required to sell off its Android OS "if its oversight committee continues to see evidence of misconduct." Google responded that the proposal pushes "a radical interventionist agenda that would harm Americans and America’s global technology leadership." Google points out that barring deals for Google Search placement in web browsers would actually hurt browser competition, as Mozilla's Firefox browser is financially dependent on its deal with Google.
Google Makes it Easier, Faster to Set Up a new Android Phone
Google today announced a number of new features and updates that improve the experience of setting up a new Android device, particularly around moving apps and data from your old device, be it and iPhone or Android phone. Previously exclusive to Pixel devices, several different Android manufacturers now include or support Android Switch, Google's app that guides you step-by-step through setting up a new device and transferring your data. Wireless transfer is supported, but more types of data can be transferred from an iPhone when using a cable. Further, Google has made cable transfers from iPhone 40% faster. Google is also starting to roll out the option to run Android Switch after the initial setup process. This option is currently available on the Pixel 9 series, but is "coming to more Android phone makers in 2025". Finally, Google is rolling out a Restore Credentials feature that lets app logins transfer seamlessly when upgrading from one Android device to another. This will mean individual apps should no longer require you to log in again when setting up a new device.
Google Accelerating New Android Versions
Google is changing its Android release schedule, releasing more new versions, sooner. While Google has stuck to a relatively consistent annual schedule in recent years, with Android 15 having just been released, the next major version — Android 16 — is now planned for the second quarter of next year. Google says this earlier release date is "to better align with the schedule of device launches across our ecosystem, so more devices can get the major release of Android sooner." Another, more minor, update is also planned for the fourth quarter of next year. The "major" update will bring API and behavior changes that typically come with a whole new version of Android, requiring all developers to test their apps for issues. The new "minor" update could introduce new features and APIs, but should not break any existing apps. With this new schedule, Google says to expect the first developer preview of Android 16 soon.
Google Wallet for Kids Coming in 2025
Google has confirmed that it plans to roll out a special version of Google Wallet for kids next year. The Android app will support tap payments in person, but not online transactions. It will also support gift cards and event tickets, but not ID cards. It will require that the Android device be enrolled in Family Link, Google's parental control solution. Via Family Link, parents will be able to add and remove payment cards, as well as view transactions. Google already offers a version of this for its Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch, but it will now expand to Android phones.
Google Working on "Rich Ongoing Notifications" for Android
Recent beta versions of Android include the first bits of a new API for app developers called Rich Ongoing Notifications. It appears to let developers put an icon plus small bit of updating text directly in the status bar, similar to the "chip" that is displayed in the status bar during a phone call. The feature would therefore be similar to the Live Activities feature that Apple introduced in iOS with its Dynamic Island concept. The feature may be slated for Android 16. Android 15 was just released.
Chrome on Android to Play Nicer with Third-Party Password Managers
Google is improving how its Chrome web browser on Android integrates with third-party auto-fill services such as password managers. Currently, such software must use a "compatibility mode" in Chrome that can be glitchy and is being phased out. Starting in Chrome version 131, a new "Autofill services" setting will let users choose a third-party service. Chrome 131 is scheduled to be released November 12, with a beta version already available. Users will have to manually choose a third-party autofill service in system settings (if they haven't already done so), then choose "Autofill using another service" in Chrome settings. Chrome will then use whatever service was chosen in the system settings. Google recommends that third-party password manager apps show a prompt to users, to inform them of these steps they need to take. Google plans to phase out Chrome's "compatibility mode" sometime in "early 2025".
Android 15 Exits Beta, Starts Rolling Out
Android 15 is finally, officially launching, starting today with Pixel devices. This version had an unusually long beta testing period. Among many new features, the biggest may be a suite of new anti-theft features. Most interesting is Theft Detection Lock, which uses AI and the phone's sensors to detect when a phone may have been snatched and automatically lock it. Google has also added "authentication requirements for settings targeted by thieves, like removing your SIM or turning off Find My Device, and will lock down your device if we sense multiple failed attempts for apps and settings." These features are not necessarily on by default, often needing to be activated manually in Settings. Android 15 also brings "Private Space", a place to hide sensitive apps behind an additional layer of authentication. Finally, Android 15 brings a standardized way for carrier messaging apps to send and receive messages via satellite. Android 15 should come to Samsung and other Android phone brands in the coming months. Google is also using the Android 15 update for Pixel phones to do a new "Feature Drop" with new Pixel-exclusive features. This includes Audio Magic Eraser, to clean up audio in your captured videos. The camera app gains a new Underwater mode, to capture better colors underwater. Finally, the Pixel Weather app now includes a three-part pollen tracker for seasonal allergies.
Google Now Lets You Search with Camera + Voice
Google has enhanced its Google Lens feature on mobile to support voice queries while doing a visual search with your phone's camera. On both iOS and Android, you can now ask Google questions like "why did the artist paint this?" or "what kind of clouds are these?", using your voice, while pointing your phone's camera at a painting or the sky, for example. To access the feature, open the Google (search) app, tap the camera (Google Lens) icon, aim, and hold down the shutter button while speaking. The feature can also be accessed from the dedicated Google Lens app, or anywhere else a Google Lens icon appears, such as in camera apps or home screen widgets.
