Revirtech

Google just made Googlebooks faster, more stable, and less crash-prone

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Fri, 6 Nov 2026 22:45:20 -0400

Google is rolling out its November update for Googlebook, and it includes a handful of improvements to make the platform more reliable and less frustrating to use.

The biggest change is in how Googlebook handles memory used by its on-device AI services. Google has updated its NPU driver and optimized AICore memory management, freeing up 3GB to 6GB of system RAM, as per a Reddit post by Google's Mishaal Rahman. That’s a significant bump for laptops with 16GB of RAM, especially when jumping between a lot of apps and browser tabs.

Chrome should also behave better under heavier workloads. The update improves the way the system reclaims memory when background AI services conflict with browser processes, reducing the chances of unexpected tab reloads and crashes. I’m almost tempted to say the update is the kind of fix that arguably should have been in place before Googlebook launched, but better late than never.

The November release covers a wide range of hardware and software issues. Convertibles should no longer lose keyboard and touchpad input when you switch between tablet and laptop modes. Google has also fixed Zoom crashes using simulated backgrounds, filters, blur effects, and 3D avatars.

External displays get a little love, too. Now you should be able to play DRM-protected streaming content such as Netflix, rather than just seeing a black screen. USB microphones and multichannel audio interfaces should work as expected too. Bluetooth users can also get lower audio-video synchronization delays and more reliable reconnection for wireless mice.

Linux users and security get some love, too

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Google hasn't forgotten about those who use Googlebook for development work. The Linux Terminal beta brings in a bunch of fixes, including more reliable shell sessions after sleep, better SSH port forwarding, and improved multi-window management. Google also fixed a memory leak when closing terminal tabs and made Linux VM updates less destructive, preserving user storage and custom SSH configurations.

Security is another part of the release. The Android security patch for November 1, 2026 resolves around 60 vulnerabilities. Google also updated the Linux 6.18 kernel and Ti50 security chip firmware, fixing unexpected restarts, boot loops, and noisy fans.

Google says the update is being rolled out gradually to supported models, including devices from Acer, ASUS, Lenovo, HP, and Dell. Owners can find it under Settings > System > System Update. You want the build number CL3B.260622.286.R2.

Early reactions on Reddit have been largely positive, with some owners already reporting smoother performance. That said, users are reporting issues, including Chrome spell check and notification syncing problems after waking from sleep.

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Samsung's smarter, redesigned SmartTag 3 is here in the U.S. with the Galaxy Buds On

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Fri, 6 Nov 2026 18:45:20 -0400

Samsung is ending the week with the arrival of two major products in the U.S. Today (Nov. 6), the company announced that its latest trackers and earbuds are available for purchase.

Samsung said its next-gen tracker, the Galaxy SmartTag 3, features a "slimmer design" and long-range tracking. Additionally, Samsung revealed two new features: Place Notification and Movement Detection Alert. In a joint blog post, Samsung states Place Notification will alert users if "a tagged item moves in or out of a predefined area that they set."

The Movement Detection Alert is much simpler: Samsung states this warning system will inform users if their tagged item is moving. These features likely work in tandem with the SmartTag 3's Compass View. Samsung says this works up to 60 meters away, giving users "distance and directional guidance." The SmartTag 3's Location History helps users keep better tabs on where their tag (or tagged items) have been.

The SmartTag 3 connects to a range of devices, thanks to its cross-OS support and the Galaxy Find Network. The SmartTag 3 is available in the U.S. for $29.99 (single tracker) or in a four-pack for $99.

Today is also the day the Galaxy Buds On officially launch in the U.S. Samsung reiterates that the open earbuds are available for $229 at Samsung's storefront and retailers.

It's all here

(Image credit: Samsung)

Samsung announced the Galaxy Buds On late in October, teasing its forthcoming availability. These clip-on, open-ear buds see the company stepping into a new market. Each bud weighs 6.65 grams and wraps around the user's ear for comfort. Samsung states it uses "over 119 million ear data points" to refine the fit of the Galaxy Buds On. (What's an ear data point, we ask?)

Its post reiterates the device's TwinBoost Speaker. This is an automatic volume adjustment feature that alters your audio to match your surroundings. What's more, since these are open-ear buds, they feature Audio Leakage Reduction tech to keep what you're listening to private. As you'd expect, the Galaxy Buds On supports Google's Gemini Live with voice commands.

Users will also find Samsung's head gestures for answering calls, swiping through notifications, and silencing alarms.

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Early details? Vivo's 'wide fold' may launch in 2027 with a more compact screen, too

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Fri, 6 Nov 2026 15:45:27 -0400

What you need to know

Rumors on Weibo suggest Vivo is developing a wide foldable with a "sub-6.5-inch display."
Additional rumors claim this device could debut sometime in 2027, though a more specific timeframe hasn't been reported.
Previous reports suggest OPPO is looking at a Q1 2027 release window for its wide foldable; however, both it and Honor are rumored to have a phone with a 7.6-inch inner display.

It's been a while since the last wide fold rumor, but they're back, and Vivo is in the spotlight this time.

Recent rumors were set in motion on Weibo by tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS), who claims Vivo has continued developing a "wide fold" (via GSMArena). DCS claims Vivo's wide foldable take could land on the smaller side. Allegedly, the device could debut with a screen "under 6.5 inches."

Additionally, DCS claims Vivo is seeking a date in 2027 to release its wide foldable. This is certainly different. For comparison, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 (which has continued to gain popularity) features a 7.6-inch inner screen. Another comparison: the iPhone Duo also features a 7.6-inch screen. Vivo opting for a sub-6.5-inch screen would certainly make it more "compact" in a space that's trying to go a bit bigger.

However, there's still a lot we don't know. DCS replied to one user, stating the majority of the hardware components have been "finalized." What's more, users don't appear phased by Vivo trying to go smaller. Many feel its internal components (its specifications, specifically) would carry the device.

An assortment of rumors

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Android Central's Take

Vivo wants to be different, huh? We've already seen and experienced how popular Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 is. But to imagine a wide foldable with a smaller inner display—thin, too, most likely—what would that look like? I mentioned people on Weibo weren't too phased by the rumor, and maybe they're onto something. I saw people saying a phone of this size, thin, and with Vivo's classic tech might be worthwhile. Maybe they're right.

Several wide foldable rumors have circulated ever since Samsung's version took the market by storm. It was originally rumored that Vivo and Honor were developing wide-folding phones to compete with the South Korean OEM. Some claimed that Vivo could debut the device as the "X Fold 6," but that's not possible. Either way, this is the first taste of what could be possible for a Vivo wide fold.

We've seen other rumors concerning its would-be competitors, and Vivo is seemingly the only one going smaller. Honor's wide foldable rumors suggest it would feature a 7.6-inch internal display, a 5.5-inch cover, and a 7,000mAh or higher battery. Even OPPO's been in the rumors with a device sporting a 7.6-inch display, a 5.5-inch cover, and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6.

There's a chance OPPO is looking to debut its take in Q1 2027.

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Google's Find Hub just got a feature that could save you from losing your wallet

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Fri, 6 Nov 2026 05:45:21 -0400

What you need to know

Google is rolling out a new "Notify when left behind" feature for Bluetooth trackers connected to Android's Find Hub.
The feature sends an alert when you move away from an item with a tracker attached, such as your wallet, keys, or bag.
Apple has offered similar left-behind alerts through Find My for years, but Android is only now getting the feature.

Android's Find Hub is getting a pretty useful new feature that will notify you whenever you leave an item with a Bluetooth tracker behind.

Google revamped Android's Find Hub last year, introducing a new interface alongside the ability to track devices, Bluetooth trackers, and people in one place. Since then, we've also seen several new Bluetooth trackers arrive on the market, including the Moto Tag and Chipolo trackers. And now, Google is finally adding one important feature that has been missing from Find Hub until now.

As spotted by 9to5Google, Google has started rolling out a new feature called "Notify when left behind" for Bluetooth trackers connected to Android's Find Hub network.

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

What this feature basically does is send you a notification whenever you leave an item with a tracker attached to it behind. For example, if you have a wallet with a Bluetooth card tracker inside and accidentally leave it somewhere, Find Hub can notify you once you've moved away from that location.

Apple has offered similar functionality through its Find My network for quite a while now, but this is the first time we're seeing it arrive for Android's Find Hub trackers.

To enable the feature, open the Find Hub app, select your Bluetooth tracker, and then look for the Notify when left behind option in the tracker's settings. Once enabled, Find Hub should alert you whenever you leave that particular tracker behind.

For now, the feature appears to be limited to Bluetooth trackers rather than other devices like headphones. However, there's a chance Google could expand support to more device categories in the future.

It's a pretty nifty addition, especially if you're someone who frequently misplaces things like keys, wallets, or bags. And considering Apple has offered this functionality for years, it's good to see Google finally bringing it to Android's Find Hub as well.

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Honor's battery plans look stunning—tests might've started with 15,000mAh capacity

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Thu, 5 Nov 2026 17:45:46 -0400

What you need to know

Rumors from overseas claim Honor is working on a phone battery between 14,000 and 15,000mAh.
The tipster claims the Chinese OEM is already testing such a battery, and its main feature could be its "guaranteed" ability to last a full week on a single charge.
Honor stepped down a battery-focused route in 2025, stating it would increase its phone battery capacities with silicon-carbon tech.

Word is that Honor is working on a phone with a huge battery that's also incredibly efficient.

Earlier this week, Digital Chat Station (DCS) posted a few supposed details on Weibo about a future Honor phone's battery (via Android Headlines). According to the tipster, Honor is developing a phone battery between 14,000 and 15,000mAh. DCS states the Chinese OEM is currently "testing" a battery with such an increased capacity. However, it looks like Honor is also trying to ensure the battery remains efficient with low user demand.

Rumors add that this battery could be "guaranteed" to last a full week on a single charge. DCS states this could be the "main feature" of the phone's battery. The tipster replied to user comments, adding that the device (and likely the battery) won't be overly large. So, there's a chance Honor is working on upgrading its silicon-carbon battery technology even further than what we've experienced.

(Image credit: Honor)

As if it needed to be said, these totals are massive. It feels like Honor wants to place a mini power bank inside a phone. Recently, the company debuted the Magic 9 Pro Max. It marked the start of Honor's shift toward a more cinematic approach with its ARRI partnership. Aside from that, the phone features an 8,800mAh silicon-carbon battery. Honor's been increasing its battery capacities over the years, and this phone is no exception.

The company states the Magic 9 Pro Max supports 100W wired SuperCharging and 80W wireless charging. These have been classics for it over the past few launches, and if this rumor is true, we might expect more of this.

Honor has huge battery plans

A year ago, Honor detailed a stronger focus on phone batteries. We've seen much of this thus far. At the time, the company said it was developing 7,020mAh-7,200mAh batteries for its flagships; however, we've seen that pushed to over 8,000mAh with the Magic 9 Pro Max. Even the company's mid-ranges were said to find a place between 8,200mAh-8,400mAh.

All of this comes off the back of its silicon-carbon tech. We reviewed these details, discovering that Honor's tech will have "higher density." In short, it keeps the hardware smaller (thinner) while increasing its total capacity. It's a great way to not make overly bulky phones, but still make good on what consumers want: bigger batteries. The folks at Android Headlines reminded us of another Honor device: the Win RT 2 gaming phone. That phone offers a 12,070mAh battery. Hearing this rumor that pushes things to 15,000mAh at the highest, maybe it's not too far-fetched.

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Samsung's new Galaxy S27 Pro could come with one disappointing compromise

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Thu, 5 Nov 2026 05:45:36 -0400

What you need to know

All four Galaxy S27 models have reportedly appeared in an import-export database, revealing their expected chipsets.
The Galaxy S27 Pro could use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 instead of the more powerful Extreme variant found in the Ultra.
The Galaxy S27 Pro could feature a 6.5-inch display, sitting between the 6.3-inch S27 and 6.9-inch S27 Ultra.

We're slowly inching toward the new year, which means it's almost time for Samsung's next-generation Galaxy S flagship phones. And now, a new leak suggests that the upcoming Galaxy S27 Pro could miss out on Qualcomm's most powerful flagship chipset.

Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S27 lineup in Q1 next year. As leaked renders have already revealed, the company appears to be taking some inspiration from Apple's iPhone, with the Galaxy S27 Ultra reportedly moving away from its familiar vertical camera layout in favor of a horizontal camera plateau.

There's also expected to be one more addition to the Galaxy S27 lineup in the form of the Galaxy S27 Pro. The new model will reportedly bring several Galaxy S27 Ultra features, including Privacy Display, to a smaller form factor without the S Pen. However, it looks like the Pro could still fall behind the Ultra in one important area: the chipset.

As spotted by Notebookcheck, all four Galaxy S27 models have reportedly appeared in the NBD import-export database. The listings mention the Galaxy S27, Galaxy S27 Plus, Galaxy S27 Pro, and Galaxy S27 Ultra, alongside details about the chipsets expected to power them.

(Image credit: Android Headlines)

According to the listings, the Galaxy S27 and Galaxy S27 Plus will be powered by Samsung's own Exynos 2700 chipset. The Galaxy S27 Ultra, meanwhile, is expected to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 processor. That's not particularly surprising, considering Samsung has traditionally reserved Qualcomm's most powerful flagship chipsets for its Ultra models.

What's interesting, however, is that the Galaxy S27 Pro is reportedly listed with the regular Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 rather than the more powerful Extreme variant.

When Qualcomm unveiled the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series earlier this year, the company introduced two versions of its flagship chipset, one with the Extreme branding and another without it. The Extreme variant sits at the top of Qualcomm's lineup, offering clock speeds of up to a whopping 5GHz.

But it looks like the Galaxy S27 Pro could miss out on that top-tier processor. Instead, Samsung may use the slightly lower-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, although the chipset is still built on the same 2nm process architecture.

(Image credit: Qualcomm)

One possible reason could be thermal management. Since the Galaxy S27 Pro is expected to offer many of the Ultra's features in a smaller body, Samsung may have opted for a slightly lower-clocked chipset to keep temperatures under control. However, that's just speculation for now.

The base Galaxy S27 will reportedly retain its 6.3-inch display, while the Galaxy S27 Plus will continue with a 6.7-inch screen. The Galaxy S27 Ultra is expected to feature the same massive 6.9-inch display, while the new Galaxy S27 Pro could sit somewhere in between with a 6.5-inch panel.

That would make the Galaxy S27 Pro a pretty interesting addition to Samsung's flagship lineup, especially for people who want some of the Ultra's features without carrying such a large phone.

Of course, we're still a few months away from the Galaxy S27 series launch, and plenty could change before Samsung makes everything official. But if this leak turns out to be accurate, the Galaxy S27 Pro may not be quite the smaller Galaxy S27 Ultra that some buyers were hoping for.

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Ready for One UI 9.5? Rumors say Samsung's next beta could start soon

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Wed, 4 Nov 2026 16:45:25 -0400

What you need to know

Rumors on social media suggest Samsung has started testing One UI 9.5 on the Galaxy S26 series, as early builds surface.
Builds were spotted for the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra, with tipster wondering if an official Beta Program could begin later in November.
Recent rumors claim One UI 9.5 could introduce a glass design approach to Galaxy phones, similar to Apple's Liquid Glass.

We've had delays upon delays for One UI 9; however, rumors continue in November about Samsung's next major OS beta.

Recently, tipster Kailash on X posted a discovery that could indicate an impending beta for Samsung's next One UI beta for Galaxy phones (via SamMobile). The tipster claims that they found early test builds for One UI 9.5 for the Galaxy S26 series. Versions S948BXXU6ZZK3, S948BOXM6ZZK3, and S948BXXU6CZK3 reportedly concern the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra.

Kailash points out that the "bootloader has changed." The S26 series jumps from "U5" to "U6" in the test versions. There's also speculation that Samsung's internal tests are ongoing, meaning we could see a proper Beta Program, where users can start signing up, "soon."

Tipster Tarun Vats also spotted these early beta builds, furthering speculation that we're on the cusp of another beta marathon. It's hard to discern any features in One UI 9.5 from builds alone; however, a few rumors touched on this before.

Get your phones ready

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Tipsters on X speculate that the One UI 9.5 beta could start in late November. That lines up with what we've heard before. It's also been assumed that One UI 9.5 won't officially debut until April or May 2027. We hope this next version doesn't face the same onslaught of delays Samsung's previous updates experienced.

Currently, rumors suggest One UI 9.5 could introduce "shiny edges and visual depth" to Galaxy phones. Of course, we're talking about a take on Apple's Liquid Glass. Rumors claim a glass aesthetic is Samsung's next focus. Many elements are reportedly shinier or blur when placed over other objects in the UI. What's more, a tipster supposedly spotted "subtle backdrop shading" for that "visual depth" we mentioned before.

Additionally, App Lock was rumored to return in One UI 9.5, securing apps behind a password, biometric, or other verification method.

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Apple iPhone Duo review: the greatest iPhone ever made

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Wed, 4 Nov 2026 11:45:38 -0400

I don't think any smartphone has ever been quite as polarizing as the iPhone Duo. After years of waiting for Apple's first foldable, the result is a phone that borrows some lessons from its Android counterparts, ignores plenty more, and feels like Apple is still figuring out what customers actually want from a foldable. Yet, despite some questionable decisions, I can't put it down. That contradiction is what makes the iPhone Duo so fascinating.

My verdict hinges on one factor I think many hardware comparisons overlook: the hidden superstar of Apple's developer ecosystem. It's both a blessing and a curse for Apple's first foldable, but in very unequal proportions. There will be short-term pain as developers, Apple, and users figure out what's possible, but the long-term gain could be enormous.

Objectively, the iPhone Duo gets plenty right, and Apple's choices seem unnecessarily complicated in places, especially since Android manufacturers have spent almost a decade solving many of the same problems. As someone who uses iOS and Android side by side, I appreciate the desire for consistency across Apple's ecosystem. But consistency shouldn't come at the expense of functionality, and some of Apple's decisions feel like an attempt to reinvent solutions that already work.

And yet, I keep reaching for it. Its utility alongside my other Apple devices is difficult to overstate, and the polarizing D-shaped design has grown on me considerably. In fact, it might be my favorite form factor for one-handed use. That's quite a turnaround from my initial reaction. My first 15 seconds with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 told me I loved it; the iPhone Duo took considerably longer. But the destination was the same, and that's an important lesson: unless a design is fundamentally flawed, living with it can change your perception in ways a hands-on session never will.

The iPhone Duo is the perfect foldable for me
Nirave Gondhia

The inner display is another example. Here, I think Apple has pulled an absolute blinder. The nano-texture layer doesn't just make the crease less distracting; it transforms the screen's entire feel. There's a welcome friction under your fingertips that reminds me of reading on an Amazon Kindle or using TCL's NxtPaper displays. It's wonderful for reading, scrolling, and typing, and makes the experience feel easier on the eyes without compromising brightness. After two weeks, I haven't had a single concern about visibility on either display, even in challenging conditions.

Then comes the inevitable question: is it worth $2,000 or more? That depends almost entirely on what you want from it. For me, the value isn't simply having a folding screen. It's being able to progress coding sprints, access my Mac remotely, and keep working from virtually anywhere in the world, even on airplane Wi-Fi. It's the pocket-friendly, always-connected folding iPad I've wanted for years, though it could benefit enormously from some iPadOS-inspired software capabilities. It finally brings a level of multitasking and utility to an iPhone that changes how I use it. For me, that's worth the asking price, and the reactions from others I've shown it to suggest I'm not alone.

Apple has at least given its first attempt some reassuring foundations. IP68 dust and water resistance, a weight that's only around 50 grams heavier than the Galaxy Z Fold 8, and the reassurance of AppleCare all help make the compromises easier to live with. But this is still a first-generation product, and Apple's approach will inevitably evolve. Samsung has had years to refine its foldables, and Apple is starting that journey considerably later. There is plenty of catching up to do, and I expect the next generations to be even slicker.

Ultimately, the iPhone Duo might be Apple's most divisive iPhone yet, but dismissing it for what it gets wrong misses what makes it so compelling. Like every first-generation foldable, it charts a different path, makes compromises, and delivers a novelty that established designs simply can't replicate. More importantly, Apple's ecosystem gives it room to grow in ways that extend far beyond the hardware: developers will discover new experiences, users will find new workflows, and missing features will gradually be replicated or surpassed.

The iPhone Duo isn't the perfect foldable, and it doesn't need to be. It's a glimpse of what happens when Apple's ecosystem finally meets a folding iPhone. There are plenty of reasons to wait for the second generation, but after two weeks, I know one thing: I don't want to put this one down. It might not be perfect for everyone, but it's pretty damn close to perfect for me.

Price & Availability

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

One of the biggest surprises about the iPhone Duo is its starting price: $2,000 in the US and £2,000 in the UK. That's for the 256GB model, and surprisingly, it's lower than I expected.

All the rumors leading up to launch suggested a record-high price, or at least a higher starting point than the competition. Instead, the iPhone Duo seems relatively well-priced by comparison. It's $100 more than the similarly sized Galaxy Z Fold 8, but $200 less than its taller sibling, although both of Samsung's foldables are currently available with sizable discounts.

Of course, 256GB is less storage than Samsung's double-your-storage launch promotion offers, and it falls short of the 512GB included with the Motorola Razr Fold, which starts at $1,899.99. Even accounting for any perception of an Apple tax, the premium seems surprisingly modest. By most comparisons, the iPhone Duo is fairly priced.

But how does it compare with Apple's own lineup? The iPhone Air is perhaps its closest match in terms of specifications and premium novelty, starting at $1,099. The new iPad mini costs $799, with a further $100 premium for the nano-texture finish. Put those together, and you're spending just $1 less than the iPhone Duo. It's hardly a scientific comparison, but it makes an interesting point: you're getting elements of both devices in one pocket-friendly package. If you were already planning to buy both, the iPhone Duo starts to look like a compelling proposition. I'd argue it's better value than its price tag might initially suggest.

The reactions from people I've shown it to largely support that. Three fellow passengers expressed genuine admiration; two immediately saw the utility and said they'd buy one for entirely different reasons, while the third felt it was simply out of her price range. Three small business owners I showed it to wanted one almost instantly, particularly after seeing how it could transform the way they run their businesses. I even encountered a brave parent who said they'd buy one, although with a six-year-old at home, that struck me as a rather bold investment!

Plenty of carrier deals are also worth considering, with all the major US carriers offering substantial trade-in credits to bring the cost down. Ten days after launch, the iPhone Duo is still sold out online, with deliveries pushed back until late January. In-store availability continues to fluctuate faster than a politician changes their stance.

Everyone should copy the iPhone Duo’s nano-texture screen

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

There, I said it: Apple’s implementation of nano-texture is so enjoyable that I hope every foldable manufacturer copies it. Apple wasn’t the first to bring nano-texture to consumer devices, but its implementation on the iPhone Duo is a genuine differentiator, and for reasons that go well beyond the specifications.

The first is visibility. Apple seems to have understood something important about foldable screens: it’s not necessarily the crease depth that matters, but how much you notice it. The Oppo Find N6 might have the shallowest crease of any foldable, but the iPhone Duo’s nano-texture finish makes its crease far less distracting in everyday use. Apple hasn't eliminated the compromise; it's made it easier to forget.

The same philosophy applies to the under-display camera. Frankly, it isn't very good, but that's almost beside the point. Most of the time, you forget it's even there because it blends so seamlessly into the screen. It's a trade-off I’m happy to make: a less intrusive camera and a less noticeable crease, even if neither is technically the best implementation available. Sometimes the better experience isn't the one with the better specifications.

The iPhone Duo proves that sometimes the better experience isn't the one with the better specifications
Nirave Gondhia

Beyond that, the display itself is excellent. The nano-texture finish covers a 7.6-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED panel, which is a lot of letters to describe the premium screen you'd expect at this price. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness in bright conditions. The unusual 1.42:1 aspect ratio is particularly interesting for multitasking, allowing two vertical apps to sit side by side. Or, as we'll explore later, it lets Apple retain a side rail while dividing the remaining space into two smaller iPhone-like experiences. The 5.4-inch cover display retains a similar aspect ratio and many of the same premium characteristics, albeit without the nano-texture finish.

Over the past two weeks, I've used the iPhone Duo on planes, trains, and automobiles, both at home and abroad, and one thing has become abundantly clear: both displays are a joy to use. I haven't encountered any brightness or visibility concerns, regardless of the conditions. There have been reports of display failures, as there are with other foldables, but it's too early to draw meaningful conclusions about their frequency or long-term durability.

Ultimately, this is the big iPhone display, or pocketable folding iPad, I've been waiting for. The specifications are impressive, but what makes it special is how little you notice the technology getting in the way.

A decidedly non-flagship, non-Pro iPhone camera

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

For a $2,000 phone, the iPhone Duo has a surprisingly ordinary camera system. It's not bad, far from it, but it's a clear reminder that even Apple's first foldable comes with compromises, and cameras are among the biggest.

Foldables have always involved trade-offs, particularly when it comes to camera hardware. The smaller passport-style designs are even more constrained by space, which helps explain why Samsung and Apple have opted for two rear cameras rather than three. But Huawei and Xiaomi have already demonstrated that you can fit a triple-camera system and a sizable battery into a similarly compact foldable. It's clearly possible; Apple has simply chosen different priorities, and I suspect most Western manufacturers will continue down the two-camera path for now.

Nirave Gondhia / Android Central

In everyday use, the iPhone Duo's cameras are good, but rarely great. Like the iPhone Air, it lacks a capable dedicated zoom camera, and while the 2x in-sensor crop on the main sensor helps, it's no substitute for a proper telephoto lens. You're not buying the Duo for its cameras. That said, photos at standard focal lengths are more than good enough for most situations, and the foldable design brings its own advantages. Using the rear cameras for selfies, with the cover screen doubling as a viewfinder, is particularly useful.

The iPhone Duo has modern iPhone cameras, just not the best cameras that Apple makes.
Nirave Gondhia

The 48MP main and ultrawide cameras match those in the iPhone 17, with the main camera also serving as the iPhone Air's sole rear shooter. These aren't old or outdated sensors, and they deliver results broadly comparable to the equivalent cameras in the iPhone 17 Pro. But they fall short of the more advanced 48MP variable-aperture system in the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. The distinction matters: you're getting capable, modern iPhone cameras, just not Apple's best.

The selfie cameras tell a similar story, although there's an interesting twist. The 4MP under-display camera on the inner screen works for video calls in good lighting, but its quality drops quickly in challenging conditions. Treat it as a convenience feature, not a camera you'd choose for anything important.

1xNirave Gondhia

2x Nirave Gondhia

3xNirave Gondhia

Far more useful is the 12MP Center Stage camera above the cover display. Although it has a lower resolution than the 18MP selfie cameras on Apple's other recent iPhones, it retains the clever square, multi-aspect sensor. That means you can capture portrait or landscape photos and videos without physically rotating the phone. Combined with the Duo's flexible hinge, it's particularly handy for hands-free video calls in tent mode.

Ultimately, the iPhone Duo's camera system is perfectly capable, but it's difficult to call it flagship-worthy at this price. Apple has prioritized the folding experience over photographic versatility, and while that's a compromise I can live with, anyone expecting Pro-level photography from a $2,000 iPhone should look elsewhere.

Great battery life and efficiency

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

If you've been fearing the iPhone Duo's battery life, fear no more: it's excellent. In fact, despite having a battery capacity similar to its closest Samsung rival, it lasts several hours longer in my testing.

Apple doesn't officially disclose battery capacity, but estimates put it at around 4,883mAh, split between both halves of the phone, as is typical of foldables. If accurate, that's slightly larger than the 4,800mAh battery in the similarly sized Galaxy Z Fold 8, although both pale in comparison to the 6,000mAh battery inside the Xiaomi 18 Fold.

The difference is in endurance. With mixed usage, the iPhone Duo consistently lasts around 13–14 hours, compared with roughly 11 hours for the Galaxy Z Fold 8. That's a substantial improvement from a battery that's only marginally larger, and likely reflects Apple's software optimizations and the efficiency of its C2 modem, although isolating their individual contributions would require further testing.

It's much closer to the larger Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, which manages 14–15 hours with its 5,000mAh battery. The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold trails at around 12 hours, while the Motorola Razr Fold also delivers roughly 14–15 hours. I haven't finished testing the Xiaomi 18 Fold, but none of these devices match the Oppo Find N6 or Honor Magic V6, both of which have achieved around 18 hours in my testing.

Apple has also made an interesting engineering trade-off. Unlike several Android manufacturers, including Samsung, which adopted silicon-carbon battery technology for the first time with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, Apple has stuck with conventional lithium-ion cells. The Duo is approaching the practical capacity limits of that technology within this form factor, so Apple appears to be relying on efficiency and a slightly thicker chassis to deliver competitive endurance. Given the results, that's a trade-off I'm happy with.

The iPhone Duo proves that battery efficiency matters more than battery capacity.
Nirave Gondhia

Charging is similarly reassuring. The iPhone Duo supports up to 60W wired charging, although thermal constraints prevent it from sustaining that peak. Using a MacBook Pro charger and an Apple USB-C cable rated for 60W, I recorded 43% charge in 15 minutes and 68% after 30 minutes. That's competitive with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and most other foldables I've tested, although the Duo appears to reduce charging speeds earlier and falls slightly behind some rivals by the half-hour mark.

There's also support for 25W magnetic wireless charging, complete with built-in magnets and Qi2.2 compatibility. It's a welcome convenience, particularly on a foldable where built-in magnetic alignment isn't always a given.

Ultimately, I have zero complaints about the iPhone Duo's battery life or charging. This is where the benefits of Apple's thicker design become particularly clear: you're trading a little sleekness for excellent endurance, fast charging, and everyday convenience. If Samsung takes a similar approach with the presumed Galaxy Z Fold 9, particularly by adding built-in magnets, I'd have very few complaints.

Apple nailed the iPhone Duo hardware in a few key ways

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

There's something particularly interesting happening with Apple's recent iPhones: the company has made enormous strides in battery life and connectivity. Bigger batteries explain some of that progress, but a handful of less obvious hardware decisions are making just as much difference.

Two of the most important are the Apple C2 modem and N1 wireless networking chip. The former is Apple's second-generation in-house cellular modem, replacing the third-party solutions it previously relied on. Having tested both the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo extensively, I've noticed one particularly meaningful improvement: network connections feel considerably more stable and reliable.

It's a difference that's hard to appreciate from a specifications sheet but immediately noticeable in daily use. My iPhone 18 Pro delivered substantially better battery life than the iPhone 17 Pro on the same networks, and I've seen similarly impressive endurance from the Duo. The C2 modem likely contributes to that efficiency, while the N1 brings more of Apple's wireless connectivity hardware under its own control. Together, they represent an increasingly important advantage, although separating their individual contributions would require more controlled testing.

Then there's the A20 Pro chip, which is absurdly powerful. The iPhone Duo flies through everything I've thrown at it, without a single noticeable slowdown or stutter. More importantly, that performance enables experiences that distinguish it from a conventional iPhone, including driving the cover and inner displays simultaneously. It's not simply about benchmark scores; it's about having the headroom to make a folding iPhone feel effortless.

Not every hardware decision is quite as successful. The earpiece sits above the cover display, and I've repeatedly found myself misaligning it with my ear when answering calls. Perhaps it's muscle memory from using larger phones, but I didn't encounter the same issue as often with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. I usually have AirPods in anyway, so it's hardly a dealbreaker, but it's worth mentioning if you frequently make handheld calls.

iPhone Handoff makes me want to own two iPhones

(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia / Android Central)

Finally, there's iPhone Handoff, and this might be one of Apple's most underrated new features. On supported carriers, it lets you seamlessly transfer your active SIM connection between two iPhones as you switch devices. My UK carrier, EE, supports it, and moving between the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo has been remarkably slick. It's the sort of experience that feels quintessentially Apple: a complicated technical process made almost invisible to the user.

Everything important already syncs between my iPhones, but Handoff removes one of the last remaining inconveniences of using two devices. I no longer need a separate SIM or mobile plan for each phone; my connection simply follows whichever one I'm using. If you want the iPhone 18 Pro's cameras and the Duo's folding versatility without juggling multiple numbers or subscriptions, this makes that combination far more practical.

Apple hasn't nailed every aspect of the iPhone Duo, but the combination of reliable connectivity, effortless performance, and seamless device switching makes a compelling case for the hardware choices it has made. These aren't necessarily the features that sell a phone in a store, but they're the ones that make you appreciate it every day.

iOS, Apps & The Apple Ecosystem

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Here's where the iPhone Duo positively outshines every other foldable: Apple's ecosystem, and specifically the developer relationships it has spent nearly two decades cultivating. The company that popularized the mobile app store was always going to lean on third-party developers to unlock new experiences for its first folding phone. That strategy is both its greatest advantage and, at least initially, a double-edged sword.

Apple's developer ecosystem is its hidden superstar

(Image credit: Nirave Gondhia / Android Central)

At launch, relatively few apps were optimized for the Duo. Black bars, awkward layouts, and wasted space were particularly jarring on the large inner display in portrait orientation, and Apple understandably received plenty of criticism. But the situation is already changing rapidly. Less than two weeks after launch, with millions of devices still awaiting delivery, more than a thousand apps have reportedly been optimized for the Duo's unusual form factor.

I've also spoken with several developers behind apps I use regularly, and many told me that delayed device deliveries have prevented them from fully exploring what's possible. Crucially, though, they already have substantial updates planned, including features designed specifically around the Duo's folding screen.

Apple built the framework. Now it's giving developers a canvas to reinvent the folding phone
Nirave

This is what makes Apple's approach so compelling. It has built the framework and handed developers a new canvas on which to experiment. There are already playful examples that let you make toasties, pour a drink, or play Battleship, alongside a growing number of genuinely useful optimized apps.

There's also an interesting knock-on effect: as developers rethink their interfaces for the Duo, some of those improvements could eventually benefit Android foldables through cross-platform apps. Of course, the reverse is already true in places. British Airways, for example, works particularly well on Android foldables, while its iPhone Duo app remains poorly optimized. Apple's ecosystem has enormous potential, but that doesn't mean it's ahead in every individual app today.

Multitasking is limited, but fundamentally different

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Then there's multitasking. Finally, we have an iPhone that can properly run two apps at once, and Apple has adopted an iPad-like split-view layout. As expected, though, it's a fundamentally different experience from Android multitasking: inferior in several ways, but arguably better in one particularly important respect.

Let's start with the limitations. You can't resize the split between apps; it's an even, side-by-side division or full-screen, with nothing in between. There's no advanced window management, floating apps, or support for more than two simultaneous applications. By comparison, the Xiaomi 18 Fold can run six or more apps in independently resizable windows. If flexibility is your priority, Android remains comfortably ahead.

But here's where Apple has done something clever: multitasking on the iPhone Duo isn't really about running two apps side by side. It's about turning one large screen into two iPhones running side by side.

Each half effectively behaves like the Duo's cover display, allowing you to run an app on one side while continuing to use your phone normally on the other. That includes interacting with the home screen and widgets, rather than being locked into two active applications. It's a subtle distinction, but one that makes the experience feel immediately familiar to anyone who already uses an iPhone.

The iPhone Duo doesn't just run two apps side by side. It turns one screen into two iPhones.”
Nirave Gondhia

And it works. I use multitasking extensively on the Duo, particularly when cross-referencing information between apps or keeping one task visible while working on another. I'd still love the flexibility Android offers, but Apple's approach makes a surprising amount of sense for its existing interface.

Eventually, more capable AI assistants might make some of these manual workflows unnecessary. Siri has improved significantly, but I still find myself using it far less than the AI features on my Android devices, and we're nowhere near that future yet.

For now, the Duo offers a distinctive compromise: less freedom than Android, but a familiar, genuinely useful multitasking experience that feels designed around how people already use their iPhones. It's another example of Apple prioritizing consistency over flexibility, and while I don't agree with every limitation, I can see why it made that choice.

The iPhone Duo is my favorite first-generation foldable

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

This will come as no surprise: I love the iPhone Duo. It's far from the perfect foldable, and it has many of the quirks you'd expect from a first-generation device, but it's also one of the most thoroughly enjoyable phones I've ever used.

Apple's ecosystem plays a huge role in that, particularly the developers who build experiences you simply can't find elsewhere. But there's also the wonderful nano-texture display, the surprisingly useful form factor, and, yes, the sheer novelty of a folding iPhone. Some of that novelty will inevitably wear off, but for now, the Duo feels every bit as special as Samsung's first foldable did at launch, or as the passport-sized Galaxy Z Fold 8 did more recently. The iPhone 18 Pro is a better phone, but the iPhone Duo is a better experience.

Apple could have made plenty of different decisions, and I've spent much of this review explaining where I wish it had. Yet, somehow, its first foldable has become my favorite iPhone ever.

The iPhone 18 Pro is a better phone, but the iPhone Duo is a better experience.
Nirave Gondhia

That's the distinction that matters most to me. Like the larger display of the iPhone 6 or the all-screen design of the iPhone X, the Duo represents a meaningful shift in how an iPhone looks and feels. But unlike those transitions, its larger folding screen offers possibilities that should continue expanding as developers discover what to do with it.

Of course, you should never buy a phone solely for its future potential. The iPhone Duo is already an excellent all-around device today, albeit one with obvious trade-offs and a price that demands serious consideration. It's improving with every passing day, and I expect that evolution to continue for years.

I have no regrets about buying it. You might decide its compromises aren't worth the asking price, and that's entirely reasonable. But for me, the Duo has done something few phones manage anymore: it's made using an iPhone feel genuinely exciting again.

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Not surprising: Galaxy Z Fold 9, 9 Ultra might not upgrade a single camera

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Wed, 4 Nov 2026 09:45:35 -0400

What you need to know

Next-gen foldable rumors suggest Samsung's cameras on the Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra could remain the same on the Fold 9 and Fold 9 Ultra.
If true, the Fold 9 would retain the same 50MP primary and ultra-wide lenses, while the Fold 9 Ultra would see similar 200MP primary, 50MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto lenses.
Rumors from October suggest Samsung could "double the number" of foldables next year with a "Galaxy Z Slide," TriFold 2, and a Fold 9 Pro.

We're still enjoying our time with the Galaxy Z8 series; however, a recent rumor about the next-generation models throws doubt on a specific upgrade.

Over on X, tipster WalleGalaxy claims Samsung might not develop any worthwhile camera upgrades for its next foldables (via SammyGuru). The tipster claims Samsung could retain the same dual-camera array specifications on the Fold 8 for the Fold 9 in 2027. If true, that means consumers are in for the same 50MP primary and ultra-wide camera lenses.

The post didn't share anything about the phone's selfie cameras. The Fold 8 features a 10MP internal and cover display lens.

Regarding the Fold 9 Ultra, rumors speculate that Samsung could continue with the same 200MP main lens, 50MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom. A user in the comments brought up an important topic: DC dimming. Samsung's displays aren't really the "gold standard" we'd like them to be. However, a recent rumor suggests the Galaxy S27 Ultra could take eye strain more seriously. Hopefully, if it bears fruit, maybe we'll see it on the next foldables.

Only getting started

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

There's no hiding that the rumors are just getting started. A rumor from mid-October said Samsung could "double the number of phones" available for its next Galaxy Z series in 2027.

Allegedly, Samsung is working on a Galaxy Z TriFold 2 and a Galaxy Z Fold 9 Pro. We have something to base our imagination on with another trifold, but the "Fold 9 Pro" is a wildcard. What's more, those same rumors said Samsung could finally debut its long-conceptualized slideable phone. You'd have to step into a time machine to remember this one. At CES 2025, Samsung Display showed off the "Slidable Flex Duet" and "Solo." These were slideable phones that would go from a "regular" sized phone to almost tablet size.

For those wondering what Samsung could do with a TriFold 2, rumors suggest a "more durable," thinner, and lighter design.

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Google will let schools turn off AI, but they'll have to give up Search too

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Wed, 4 Nov 2026 05:45:17 -0400

What you need to know

Google will disable Gemini and other AI tools by default for K-12 student accounts starting in 2027.
Schools can manually enable individual AI services, but disabling AI will also remove access to Google Search.
Schools that enable AI will get "Guided Learning" tools designed to help students solve problems instead of giving direct answers.

Google has announced a major policy change that will disable access to its AI tools, including Gemini, Gemini Notebook, and Gemini Classroom, by default for K-12 student accounts.

Google has been pushing AI tools into pretty much every product it offers for a while now, but there have also been growing concerns about how these tools affect the learning process, especially for younger students.

And now, in a bid to give schools more control over AI use, Google announced on Tuesday that it will disable access to Gemini, Gemini Notebook, Gemini Classroom, and even Google Search by default for K-12 student accounts (via The New York Times).

School administrators will still have the option to enable these services individually if they want, but they'll remain disabled by default starting in 2027.

The catch, however, is that schools won't be able to completely block Google's AI tools while keeping access to regular Google Search. Google says AI is now so deeply integrated into Search through features like AI Overviews and AI Mode that disabling AI will also mean losing access to Google Search altogether.

(Image credit: Android Central)

Chris Phillips, Google's vice president of education, told The New York Times that Search and AI are now deeply integrated. He added that schools choosing to disable Google's AI features will also lose access to Search, with students instead seeing a message explaining that the service isn't available through their school.

For schools that do decide to enable AI, Google is also introducing a new "Guided Learning" experience within Gemini and Search. Instead of simply giving students direct answers, the feature is designed to walk them through problems step by step, helping them understand how to arrive at the answer rather than just copying it.

Google says the policy change is intended to give schools more choice over which services students can access, allowing administrators to enable or disable tools based on their requirements.

But there's a pretty big contradiction here. On one hand, Google says it's giving schools more control over AI in classrooms. On the other, schools that don't want students using AI Overviews or AI Mode will also have to give up regular Google Search.

So, schools are technically getting more control over Google's AI tools, but only if they're willing to lose access to one of the most widely used search engines in the process. And that seems like a pretty strange way of giving schools more choice.

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Samsung upgraded its Sleep Apnea detection—Galaxy Ring, Watch 9 are receiving it now

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Tue, 3 Nov 2026 15:45:26 -0400

What you need to know

Samsung announced that its upgraded Sleep Apnea feature has been cleared in the U.S. by the FDA and in South Korea by the MFDS for the Galaxy Ring and Watch 9.
The feature is now rolling out in the app, bringing deeper insights about any breathing disruptions for users to present to a doctor if necessary.
Samsung revealed during Unpacked this summer that Sleep Apnea was headed to the Galaxy Ring, making it the "first and only" smart ring to feature it.

Samsung has been working to improve its Sleep Apnea detection while navigating the necessary government procedures. Today (Nov. 3), Samsung says the feature has been cleared.

In a Newsroom post, Samsung announced that its "upgraded Sleep Apnea" detection software has cleared the FDA in the U.S. and the MFDS in South Korea. This is crucial because Samsung's Sleep Apnea software was cleared for the Galaxy Ring. According to the post, the company has become "the first company in the world to bring sleep apnea risk detection on a smart ring."

Regarding what's changed, Samsung says it's increased the level of depth of Sleep Apnea insights provided to users. In the Health app, users will see the level of breathing disruption experienced the night before. The company intends for this to help users better identify how severe their underlying condition could be before seeking medical attention.

As this form of detection arrives for Galaxy Ring users, Samsung reminds them that they only need "two nights of monitoring within a 10-day period." After that, they should begin seeing Sleep Apnea insights in the app. Preventative Care features will continue to expand to more Samsung devices.

This upgraded Sleep Apnea detection is rolling out today (Nov. 3) in the Health app for the Galaxy Watch 9 (and Galaxy Ring) with Wear OS 7 or higher. What's more, Samsung says the Galaxy Watch 7 and 8 are eligible; however, those users need to wait for a software update. Samsung didn't give a date, so we'll have to wait for now.

Long road of approvals

(Image credit: Samsung)

Android Central's Take

The availability of features is what matters here. Samsung has continued to present itself as a health-forward company with its wearables. Sleep Apnea is one of those conditions will do more harm than good if left unchecked. Beyond that, it's a tiny little ring on your finger. It's comfortable (ideally) to wear throughout the day and night. That's part of the reason why Samsung is worked to expand this feature. It's rolling out now, so if you receive it, let us know how it goes.

This was a huge announcement during Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked this past summer. During the keynote, the company announced that Sleep Apnea was headed to the Galaxy Ring. This would mark the device as "the first and only" smart ring to offer such capabilities. Samsung said the feature would arrive "this fall," and we've now seen that here in early November.

Sleep Apnea is an incredibly important medical condition. Samsung has been down a long road of approvals, dating back to 2023 when the MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety) in South Korea approved it for the Galaxy Watch. Consumers in the U.S. had to wait until 2024 before the FDA finally cleared it. However, it didn't actually arrive on a Galaxy Watch 2025—long road, right?

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This new Qi2.3 power bank puts Google's and Samsung's accessories to shame

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Tue, 3 Nov 2026 12:45:22 -0400

What you need to know

Peak Design has introduced what it calls the world's first Qi2.3-certified magnetic power bank with a built-in kickstand.
The 5,000mAh power bank supports 15W wireless charging on battery and up to 25W when connected to external power.
Peak Design's new accessories start at $65, with a lifetime guarantee and additional battery performance coverage.

Peak Design today introduced a new Qi2.3 magnetic power bank alongside several other charging accessories that put some of the first-party accessories from brands like Samsung and Google to shame.

Peak Design, the brand popularly known for its backpacks and everyday carry gear, has slowly been expanding into mobile accessories as well. And today, the company unveiled its latest lineup of charging accessories, bringing some pretty interesting features that go beyond what first-party brands like Google and Samsung currently offer.

One of the most interesting products announced today is the Kickstand Travel Battery, which Peak Design says is the world's first Qi2.3-certified wireless power bank. It packs a 5,000mAh battery and supports up to 25W wireless charging.

(Image credit: Peak Design)

The magnetic power bank delivers up to 15W wireless charging when running on its internal battery, but that increases to 25W when you plug it into a power source. It also features a built-in kickstand, making it easier to prop up your phone while charging.

The Kickstand Travel Battery starts at $99.95 and comes in two colors, Moon and Black. It's already available to purchase.

In addition to the power bank, Peak Design has also introduced a new 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Station. It features two equally capable Qi2.2 charging pads, each supporting up to 25W wireless charging. There's also an additional port on the side for charging another accessory.

Peak Design

What's particularly interesting about the charging station is that it folds completely flat, making it much easier to pack and carry while traveling.

Peak Design has also unveiled the Dual Slim Charger, a GaN charging brick that's just half an inch thick while still delivering up to 65W of charging power. You can use it to charge a laptop and smartphone simultaneously, and its slim design makes it easier to carry around without taking up much space in your bag.

(Image credit: Peak Design)

The company has also introduced new Ultra Strand USB-C cables in 60W and 240W configurations. The higher-end 240W version supports USB4 data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps.

In terms of pricing, the 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Station starts at $99.95, while the Dual Slim Charger is priced at $65.

It's also worth noting that all of these accessories are backed by Peak Design's lifetime guarantee, while the battery products come with an additional two-year battery performance coverage.

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Google confirms a nasty Pixel Watch battery bug — and a fix is rolling out

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Tue, 3 Nov 2026 12:45:21 -0400

What you need to know

Google has confirmed a battery drain bug affecting a small number of Pixel Watches, with a fix already rolling out.
Some Pixel Watch owners reported battery life dropping to around 12 hours, even when the watch was barely being used.
Google says users should update all apps through the Play Store on their Pixel Watch to receive the fix over the coming days.

If you've been experiencing severe battery drain on your Pixel Watch lately, Google has confirmed that a fix is already rolling out.

It's not uncommon for Google Pixel devices to run into software issues every now and then. Recently, Pixel 11 Pro users reported problems with video recording when Video Boost was enabled, while others have also faced issues with Google Photos.

And now, it looks like a bug affecting Pixel Watches has been causing unusually high battery drain as well. Thankfully, Google has confirmed that a fix is on the way.

In a statement today, Google confirmed that a battery drain bug affected a "small number of devices" and that a fix has already started rolling out (via Android Authority). The company says the rollout should be completed over the next couple of days.

(Image credit: Google)

To get the fix, Google says you'll need to update all the apps installed on your Pixel Watch through the Play Store. To do this, open the Play Store app on your Pixel Watch, scroll to Manage apps, and then select Update all to install any pending app updates.

It's worth noting that the issue wasn't limited to any particular Pixel Watch generation. Instead, reports suggest the bug affected multiple generations of Google's smartwatch, with some users experiencing battery life dropping to just around 12 hours, even with minimal use.

Google hasn't revealed exactly what was causing the excessive battery drain or which app or background process was responsible. But thankfully, the company has now started rolling out a fix, which should reach affected devices over the next couple of days.

So, if your Pixel Watch has suddenly started losing battery much faster than usual, make sure you've updated all the apps on the watch itself. And if the issue continues, it's worth checking again over the next few days as Google completes the rollout.

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Google takes down a massive Android TV botnet, but infected devices remain dangerous

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Tue, 3 Nov 2026 11:45:22 -0400

Google has taken down a huge Android malware operation that turned over 1.3 million Android TV boxes into weapons for cyber criminals.

The company revealed that the operation was performed by Videostrong Technology, a device maker that has been accused of intentionally putting a hidden backdoor on its products and selling access to criminal affiliates.

The malware, dubbed XCPE or x.cpe, was directly embedded in the firmware of Android TV boxes sold under different brands. Google’s Threat Intelligence Group said that Videostrong developed the backdoor as a business, not letting it slip through accidentally. Criminal partners could use infected devices to generate fake ad views, reroute internet traffic through unsuspecting homes, and install more malware.

A backdoor that gives criminals control of your TV box

Google is particularly concerned about XCPE because it runs with Android system-level privileges. It connects to remote command-and-control servers, enabling attackers to silently install applications, execute shell commands, take screenshots, and collect device information.

Google also found that the malware could collect account information, application lists, and system logs. Some operators even used the ability to remotely access the devices to capture keystrokes and establish reverse shells.

Just removing the malware application isn’t enough, though. The backdoor can restore itself from a protected firmware partition on every device reboot. It can also affect Google Play Protect by changing the security settings, making it much more difficult to detect and remove.

The most common way the infection spreads is through Android TV boxes, but researchers also saw XCPE on other Android-based devices such as karaoke machines, telehealth equipment, and digital signage systems.

Google cuts off Videostrong and its criminal partners

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Google worked with Japan’s National Police Agency, Lumen, HUMAN Security, Plume, Synthient, and TrendAI to take the operation down. Its complaint targeted command servers operated by Videostrong, as well as the infrastructure behind more than a dozen other families of malware.

The company also banned Videostrong and future subsidiaries from making certified Android devices or supplying software to certified manufacturers.

The disruption could spread even further. Disabling the command infrastructure used by criminal affiliates will cut off access to at least 10 million more compromised devices infected through different distribution channels, Google figures.

Infected Android TV boxes might need replacing

There is a catch for consumers, however: the takedown does not automatically remove XCPE from impacted hardware. According to security researchers, users should identify potentially compromised devices, disconnect them, and consider replacement rather than relying on an ordinary app uninstall.

Google also tightened its firmware integrity checks and manufacturer vetting process after it found that Videostrong used obfuscation to load malicious code after a device initially booted up.

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Google's Wear OS 'status bar' experiment brings a little more Android flair to watches

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Mon, 2 Nov 2026 16:45:15 -0400

What you need to know

Google is running an experiment with developers to bring a status bar to a future major Wear OS update.
This status bar for watches will mirror its capabilities on Android, meaning users will find status icons for connectivity, their location, and more.
Google recently introduced standalone earthquake alerts to Wear OS, removing the necessity for users to always have their phone paired.

Google is developing a smartwatch feature that looks awfully familiar to Android users.

On its Developers Blog, the company posted details about its next major Wear OS update: Wear OS 8 (via 9to5Google). To preface, Google says it wants to solve an issue with Wear OS that it didn't with OS 7. The post explains that Wear OS 7 "did not render a system status bar over application windows." Essentially, apps consumed your entire watch face.

However, with Wear OS 8, Google says it's testing a "status bar" at the 12 o'clock position on smartwatches. In this test, the test notes say Wear OS will "render a status bar over application windows at the 12 o'clock position to display the time and status indicators." While this is a change developers must prepare for, Google states this status bar change will facilitate "visual consistency" across the software.

Since this status bar will be present no matter what app you open, it says users can enjoy "a uniform clock typography" and more. What's more, similar to Android, a status bar on Wear OS will display key details, such as status icons (think location or connectivity status).

Google's early preview in the Wear OS 7.1 Beta Preview Emulator will also highlight the status bar's "transition coordination." In layman's terms, if you're scrolling on your watch, the status bar will disappear for a couple of seconds before returning once you're done. Developers are getting started with this via the Android Studio Preview (Android Canary).

Wear OS continues to evolve

(Image credit: Google)

While we're in the realm of Wear OS, Google expanded earthquake alert capabilities for the software earlier this year. Now, all users need is their Wear OS watch, and they'll receive important alerts about potential earthquakes. However, the most important announcement we were waiting on was Wear OS 7, which rolled out in June. Better battery life is always welcome in Wear OS; however, Google started turning watches into a command center for everything you'd need.

Increased device integration was a major highlight. Users can control media playback across a range of devices now, and transfer audio, too. Gemini Intelligence was discussed for "select" Wear OS 7 models this year. Google was preparing to introduce "Create My Widget," which allows users to generate personalized dashboards for their watches.

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The Motorola Signature 27's screen is five times brighter than the Galaxy S26 Ultra's

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Mon, 2 Nov 2026 13:45:39 -0400

Motorola is not holding back with its next flagship. The upcoming Motorola Signature 27 is shaping up to be a real contender with a Tandem OLED display offering a claimed 12,000 nits of peak brightness, alongside a 200MP periscope camera and Qualcomm’s latest flagship processor.

Motorola has started to spill enough details to make Galaxy and Pixel owners sit up and take notice as the phone's launch date draws nearer. The company recently partnered with YouTuber Danny Winget for an early hands-on preview, and we got a closer look at the phone’s design and specifications. The biggest talking point is a 6.8-inch Extreme AMOLED Duo display with a 120Hz refresh rate and jaw-dropping 12,000-nit peak brightness.

For context, that’s significantly more than the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s 2,600-nit peak brightness and the Pixel 11 Pro XL’s 3,600 nits. The panel is based on Tandem OLED technology, which stacks two layers of organic LEDs to enhance brightness, contrast, and power efficiency. That said, peak brightness numbers aren't necessarily what you'll see in regular use.

A camera system with serious ambitions

Under the display, the Signature 27 is equipped with a quad-camera setup led by a 50MP Sony LYT-910 sensor with LOFIC technology, as well as a 200MP periscope telephoto camera with up to 100x zoom and a 50MP ultrawide shooter. You also get a dedicated Action sensor designed to capture fast-moving subjects with more clarity.

Inside is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chip paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. Motorola has also bumped up the vapor chamber by 40% to better deal with heat during demanding workloads.

The phone ships with Android 17, and it will get software updates for seven years. The dual speakers are tuned by Bang & Olufsen, and the two finishes are Capulet Olive and Coal Smoke.

The price could be its biggest obstacle

Motorola has not yet announced the battery capacity, charging speeds, storage options, or official pricing. But recent retailer leaks suggest that the 512GB model could be priced at $1,800.

The Motorola Signature 27 is set to release on November 5. That leaves the remaining question of whether its impressive specs will come with a sensible price tag.

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The Samsung News app is being discontinued, and there's no replacement yet

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 11:45:48 -0400

Samsung is about to kill another built-in Galaxy feature, and this time it's the news feed that many users probably haven't noticed anymore.

In a confirmation from the company spotted by SamMobile, the Samsung News app will be discontinued on December 21, 2026, at 00:00 UTC — leaving Galaxy phone and tablet owners bereft of one of the platform’s familiar ways to catch up on daily headlines.

(Image credit: Samsung / SamMobile)

The shutdown will affect more than just the Samsung News app. Its home screen widget will no longer get updated with new content, and the media page you can access by swiping right from the leftmost home screen will be gone.

Samsung has already begun sending shutdown notices to users in India and South Korea, urging them to remove the widget before the service is discontinued.

Samsung will also erase all user data related to the service after the shutdown. This includes personal information, account profiles, and personalization settings. Some information may be kept temporarily, as mandated by local law, but Samsung says it will be deleted eventually.

Samsung News is not new. It launched in April 2023, succeeding Samsung Free, and continuing a surprisingly long line of shuttered news-feed services. Samsung Free replaced Samsung Daily in 2020 and Bixby Home replaced Samsung Daily in 2019. That's quite a few rebrands for something that ultimately ended up on the chopping block.

So, what comes next? Samsung hasn’t announced a direct replacement, but Google Discover is a likely candidate. The service is already available as an alternative on Galaxy devices, so this is a convenient option if Samsung chooses to simplify its software experience.

While these confirmed shutdown notices are for India and South Korea, owners in other markets should be watching for similar announcements, rather than assuming their regional service will disappear on the same schedule. In any case, it seems Samsung’s native news experience is headed for its final headline.

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Strava joins forces with Google Gemini—new insights are rolling out for users

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 14:45:32 -0400

What you need to know

Strava announced that it's rolling out a Connected Apps experience with Google's Gemini for subscribers.
Once connected, users will receive details about their progress, and uncover new insights through Gemini's integration with your running data.
A major Strava update brought AI Performance Prediction to subscribers, which requires at least 20 tracked activities before it can begin.

Strava is starting to roll out new ways for users to interact with their wellness data by joining forces with Google Gemini.

In a press release, Strava announced that users can enjoy a Connected Apps experience in Google's Gemini, beginning this week. Subscribers can reportedly connect their Strava account to view their "progress and uncover insights." The company adds that Gemini will personalize its answers based on your Strava data.

Strava runs users through a few examples, stating they can ask if they're "getting faster at the same heart rate." The post states Gemini will compare your heart rate and speed across your "volume, consistency, and mix of sports." What's more, Strava's Gemini integration can break down your racing performance per mile.

Strava has rolled out recent updates for its Gemini integration, too. According to the post, users can ask Gemini if the weather was why they felt sluggish, or if it was their body.

Subscribers can connect their Strava accounts with Gemini this week in the U.S. The company states this feature is available for all Gemini plans. If you're getting started, users should navigate to Personal Intelligence in Gemini > Strava (in Connected Apps) > Sign In.

Get your steps in (or run)

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

The Strava app is primarily where users have gotten their daily insights; however, there was a major update that brought its Athlete Intelligence, which turned some heads. Athlete Intelligence was locked away in beta for four and a half months. After launching, it delivered improved accuracy and new insights to users. As part of its "tailored" experience, Athlete Intelligence could interpret a user's "non-GPS activities."

Such activities include running on a treadmill or cycling power. What's more, Athlete Intelligence will "note how your pace or speed compares to other times on that route." In our initial testing, we noticed some errors with Athlete Intelligence early on, but its insights were pretty spot on. Shortly after, Strava brought AI Performance Predictions to its subscribers.

The company's software would estimate how long it would take the user to run a "5K, 10K, and half & full marathons." This data requires a hefty background to begin. Strava states users should catalog around 20 activities before AI Performance Predictions can begin.

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Google rolls out an update that finally tightens the screws on Gemini for Home

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 07:45:35 -0400

What you need to know

Google is rolling out a late October patch for Gemini for Home and its smart home app, upgrading its capabilities and introducing major fixes.
The patch notes state Gemini's "Sorry, I didn't understand" response has been fixed, as users would receive this when nothing was explicitly said.
Fixes for "zero-volume" alarms and timers are rolling out, alongside new additions for Matter devices on Android.

Google concludes the week with a substantial update for Gemini for Home and its smart home app that users should keep an eye out for.

The company detailed the update in a lengthy changelog today (Oct. 29). Gemini for Home, which is still in early access, spearheads the list of fixes this week. According to Google, this week's patch includes a fix for Gemini's frustrating "Sorry, I didn't understand" error messages. The funny thing is, this was happening when users hadn't said anything. This issue reportedly affected displays and speakers, and should be patched in this update.

Gemini should now better understand when a user tells it to switch music to a device in another room. Google states it's rolling out more "reliable" commands for YouTube TV. It says this should help content play as intended whenever the user asks for it. Volume control is another area where Gemini has been shaky.

Google states it's rolling out a fix for "zero volume timers and alarms." In some cases, users would set an alarm, but its volume would drop to zero, meaning they'd never hear it. Elsewhere, Google is solving an issue "where asking to adjust the volume on a speaker or display in another room could accidentally change the volume on the device you were speaking to if the other device couldn’t be found."

(Image credit: Google)

The Google Home app is also receiving quite a few bug fixes/updates this week, beginning with Matter devices. The patch notes state Android devices can now view energy data for supported Matter products. It adds that compatible plugs and energy monitors will soon "display both real-time power (mW) and total energy consumed (kWh) directly on their device tiles and controller screens."

Additionally, users can quickly shift their devices into power-saving modes through the app. Improved icons and controls are also rolling out for Matter devices on Android. Google says the Home app will now organize devices by type: garage doors, gates, windows, blinds, cabinets, and more.

Google Home Premium users can now find their benefits by tapping on their Profile > Google Home Premium > Features (to enable, too).

There are also extensive updates for smart home cameras

(Image credit: Google)

A long road of changes

Google's been down a long road with Gemini for its smart home environment. The company has rolled out purposeful patches to fix issues users have experienced with the AI's responses. In one update, Google worked on improving Gemini's response times. It stated that it quickened the AI by 40%, but it also rolled out additional fixes to make good on that promise.

In a patch in April, Google improved Gemini's smart home understanding. Users won't have to bore themselves with exact commands. The company said Gemini could understand "casual phrases and context better."

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Google brings back app lock in Android 17 QPR3 Beta 3

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 21:45:17 -0400

Google's been busy with its Android 17 development cycle, pushing multiple Quarterly Platform Release updates and still working on bug fixes across Pixel devices. QPR3 went into beta testing in early October, and the first two releases focused primarily on squashing stability, connectivity, and performance bugs. Now Android 17 QPR3 Beta 3 is here with 26 more fixes, the return of the app lock, and some handy interface improvements.

It’s not a massive visual overhaul by any means, but Google is clearly using these beta releases to tidy up the Android experience ahead of the next big update.

This new release follows QPR3 Beta 2, which was released just over a week ago and also included its own set of bug fixes. According to its release note shared on Reddit, Google has listed 26 fixes ranging from display glitches and app crashes to connectivity and system stability issues this time around.

App lock and bubbles get another shot

The changes to the usability side are more interesting. As noted by one Reddit user, app lock is making a comeback, offering users another way to keep sensitive apps safe from unwanted access. Google is also making app bubbles easier to use by letting users launch them from the Recents menu, rather than having to dig through other interface options.

Quick Settings is also receiving a camera shortcut. That’s a small addition, arguably, but it gives users another way to launch the camera without hunting down its app icon. Google has also fixed the AM/PM display for lock screen alarms and brought back some of the lock screen blur that was lost in a previous update.

A bigger cleanup under the hood

The new fixes cover a number of annoying issues, including random screen flickering, black inner displays when unfolding foldables, poor webcam video quality, and crashes when viewing mentions in X threads. Google has also fixed broken force-stop controls, missing notification elements, crashing Bluetooth scans, and WPA-Enterprise Wi-Fi authentication failures.

Android 17 QPR3 Beta 3 is available for Pixel 6a and newer devices. Most supported models receive build DP11.261016.003, while Pixel 11 models get DP11.261016.004.

If you want to, you can sign up through Google's Android Beta Program, but it’s always a good idea to back up your data prior to installing beta software.

Android 17 QPR2 is expected to reach stable status around the end of 2026, and QPR3 is looking to be another round of meaningful refinements ahead of its anticipated 2027 release.

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Amazon's latest suite of Alexa-powered Echo devices includes a digital Photo Frame

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 16:45:23 -0400

What you need to know

Amazon announced a refreshed list of 2026 smart home devices: the Echo Dot, Echo Studio with Home Camera, Echo Time, Echo Show 16, and the Alexa Photo Frame.
The Echo Dot offers a built-in smart home hub that connects it to "thousands" of available smart home devices, such as lights and locks.
The Echo Show 16 is ~40% thinner than before, and delivers a 16-inch HD screen that users can use a family or meal planner.
Amazon's Alexa Photo Frame sync directly with your Amazon Photos account, and brings your latest photos to the forefront.

Amazon is dropping another round of fresh smart home devices at the end of Techtober. The company announced four new Echo devices and an Alexa Photo Frame to digitize years of memories.

Today (Oct. 29), Amazon debuted its latest line of smart home devices, beginning with four new Echo devices, such as the new Echo Dot. Amazon states the 2026 Echo Dot "includes a built-in smart home hub" for the first time. This hub lets its AI, Alexa, connect to "thousands of compatible devices" (think smart lights, locks, etc.). Furthering the Echo Dot's AI ambitions is Amazon's new AI Accelerator for a sharp, quick experience.

If you're playing music or listening to audiobooks, Amazon says the Echo Dot now has 50% more bass and crisper vocals. The Echo Dot is available for $99; however, there is a Kids Echo Dot that starts at $109 with a year of Amazon Plus included.

Elsewhere, we have the 2026 Echo Studio. The design remains similar to that of its 2025 counterpart. Amazon says the Echo Studio features a House Camera to give it a "better understanding" of what's happening around it. In turn, it enhances Alexa's capabilities for homeowners. Users can check in on their house through the Echo Studio, peering in through its included camera.

The Echo Studio boasts "a high-excursion woofer and Dolby Atmos with Advanced Room Adaptation." The Echo Studio with House Camera starts at $249 and is shipping today (Oct. 29). The company states Fire TV support will bring video calling to users in a future update.

Amazon

The Echo Time has been refreshed with Omnisense, Amazon's sleep-sensing tech. The post states the device can "sense when you're in lighter sleep and wake you within 10 to 60 minutes of your scheduled alarm." In terms of design, the Echo Time features a digital clock face that users can customize with analog or modern themes.

The Echo Time is available starting at $199, and the Kids Echo Time starts at $209 with a year of Kids Plus included.

Rounding out the "Echo" devices is the Echo Show 16. Amazon calls it its "most powerful" version. The device is roughly 40% thinner and features a 16-inch HD screen. There's also a Nanomatte variation to reduce screen glare from sunlight. Amazon highlights "Screen Styles," which lets users turn it into a family planner, meal planner, and more.

The Echo Show 16 can even double as a family picture frame. Then you have the smart home dashboard with the Alexa Home Map. This gives users a clear picture of where every connected smart home device is in their house. Fire TV support is built-in, and the Echo Show 16's camera has been upgraded with a wider FOV, auto-framing for pictures, and more.

The Echo Show 16 can be pre-ordered for $499.99 or for $599 if you're getting the Nanomatte version. However, Amazon states that if you're pre-ordering now, you could get $100 off.

Framing the memories

(Image credit: Amazon)

The final overall product from Amazon is the 10-inch Alexa Photo Frame.

This digital photo frame has Alexa built into its core, connecting to your Amazon Photos account with automatic image sync. The post states that as you take photos, they will appear on the Photo Frame. Alexa reportedly works its AI magic, surfacing photos where people are smiling, skipping over screenshots and other content.

Consumers can purchase the Alexa Photo Frame for $199.99 in black, while its Birch or Walnut wood frames start at $229.00.

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Ultrahuman's Ring Pro arrives in the US—consumers can get it fitted in-store, but only at Best Buy

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 14:45:21 -0400

What you need to know

Ultrahuman announced that its Ring Pro is available now in the U.S. without delay and without pre-order.
Consumers can purchase the device at online storefronts from Ultrahuman, Target, Walmart, and Best Buy; however, 300 Best Buy stores will also have it for fitting purposes.
The Ring Pro features a 15-day battery life (45 days with the case), "Enhanced memory" for health data, a titanium build, and more for ~$479.

Ultrahuman's latest smart ring debuted in February. However, the U.S. was excluded from its "global" debut—that changes today (Oct. 29).

Ultrahuman announced in a press release that the Ring Pro is now available to U.S. consumers. Consumers can purchase the Ring Pro online at Ultrahuman's storefront, Target, and Walmart. Additionally, you can grab it at Best Buy online or in-store at one of 300 locations. Ultrahuman states the Ring Pro's presence at Best Buy stores gives users a unique advantage.

You can try on the Ring Pro in-store, have it sized to your finger, and "take it home the same day." The smart ring was announced at $479 at launch in February, so consumers should see similar pricing online and in-store. The company states that it's working on bringing the Ring Pro to Target and Walmart stores "over the next few weeks," so you can try it on and have it sized in person.

To celebrate the Ring Pro's U.S. arrival, Ultrahuman's CEO and founder, Mohit Kumar, said, "We’re delighted to be on sale in the U.S. so customers can get hold of Ring PRO without pre-orders or delays."

Pro-level Ring

Ultrahuman

Ultrahuman reminds us that the Ring Pro features up to 15 days of battery life. However, paired with its charging case, users can get up to 45 days. The Ring Pro and its charging case feature a pairing so strong, you can find it if you've lost it. Ultrahuman says users will benefit from "Find My Case" and At-a-glance feedback on the case. This feedback delivers "confirmations and alerts via haptics, and view battery level status via an LED indicator."

Plus, users won't need a subscription to unlock its many continuous health-tracking features. Returning to its original launch, Ultrahuman said it will sell the Ring Pro in sizes five through 14.

The Ring Pro was also built with "enhanced memory." Ultrahuman says it can remember up to 250 days of data to "assist with your health history." The company redesigned its heart rate sensor to be more useful when you're sleeping or recovering.

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Google preps more Connected Apps for users and new ways to build for devs

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 16:45:15 -0400

What you need to know

Google's Android Dev Summit is going on, and it announced a Connected Apps Platform in preview for developers.
This platform lets developers bring their apps into the Connected Apps experience for Gemini or Search, or both.
Users should expect apps from Adobe, Experian, Localiza, and Peloton in Search in the coming weeks, as well as Calm.

This afternoon (Oct. 28), Google announced a new developer platform en route for Connected Apps in Gemini and Search.

From what Google announced, it looks like users should prepare for an influx of Connected Apps. According to its post, the Connected Apps Platform is launching in preview this week for developers looking to integrate their products into Gemini and Search. Google states this preview gives developers an "opportunity to build once and reach high-intent users..."

After integrating with a cloud-hosted MCP server and running through the required review process, Google says devs can decide whether their app is available in Gemini or Search (or both). Developers will have all the tools they need to understand the stability of their app. They can "track traffic, latency, and error rates," among other pieces of data, to keep everything smooth.

While Google is rolling out the Connected Apps Platform in preview to developers today, it states everyday users at home should expect more goodies, too. The company highlighted partnerships with Adobe, Experian, Localiza, and Peloton in Connected Apps. Many of these are already live in Gemini; however, in the weeks ahead, Google says it will roll them out in Search.

Additionally, Google is preparing to integrate Calm (the mental health app) into Gemini and Search soon. If you're a developer and you're interested in the new platform's preview, you can sign up and get started.

Groceries, music, and more

(Image credit: Google)

Android Central's Take

Useful AI is useful. This is a good spot for AI to be: one where it can help take the mundane out of the mundane. It'll shop, and then notify you at the important parts. However, watching what the AI does can't be stressed enough. It's not foolproof, so keeping a watchful eye to ensure disaster doesn't strike is a good rule of thumb. Also, you don't have to connect anything you don't want to. Be mindful, and stay safe with your information.

As far as Connected Apps go, things have improved recently. And by "improved," we mean the fact that Google brought in Instacart and YouTube Music to AI Mode's experience this summer. Even Canva got in on the fun. With all Connected Apps, users are letting Google's AI take the reins. With Instacart, users can say, "get me all the things I need for my BBQ and add them to my grocery cart."

You'll see everything the AI is doing, and you can also intervene if something goes awry. What's more, the AI will notify you when it reaches a critical point: payment. You'll be prompted to open Instacart and complete the transaction once the AI is done shopping. The AI can assist with creating new playlists if YouTube Music is connected.

Google teased that there would be more partnerships in the future, and we've gotten a small glimpse of that today with its new platform preview.

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Launch day: Xreal Aura is here, and there's a limited-time price drop you won't want to miss

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 14:45:41 -0400

What you need to know

Xreal Aura launch day is here, and the company announced a surprising price drop that will run for a limited time (through December 2026).
The Aura XR glasses can be purchased for $1,099 (12/256GB) and $1,299 (16GB/512GB) in the U.S., Canada, Japan, and South Korea.
The Xreal Aura delivers access to millions of apps on the Google Play Store, the NBA app for Android XR, the NASCAR XR app, a 70-degree FOV, a 1200p resolution Sony Micro-OLED display, Sound by Bose, and more.

The day has finally arrived for Xreal's Aura. The company announces that its wired Android XR glasses are available for consumers in the U.S., Canada, Japan, and South Korea.

This afternoon (Oct. 27), Xreal surprised consumers with a limited-time offering. To celebrate its launch, the Aura XR glasses 12/256GB version can be purchased for $1,099. What's more, users will find its 16GB/512GB variant for $1,299. Prices have fallen by roughly $200 from what Xreal originally announced earlier this month. Xreal states these prices will remain through December 2026. After that, pricing will return to normal: $1,279 and $1,499, respectively.

A press release states that the Xreal Aura is expected to begin shipping in mid-November.

The company's co-founder and CEO Chi Xu said, "This is a defining moment for XR. We built AURA for people who want the power of spatial computing without being removed from the world around them." Chi Xu adds, "XREAL AURA is finally here, and we're so proud to unlock new ways for people to work, watch, play, and build."

Since the Aura features Android XR, the glasses have integrated technologies from Google and Qualcomm. The glasses are powered by Google's AI Gemini and a Snapdragon Reality Elite chip. Xreal states the Aura can go from work to play in a snap. Users will have access to "millions of familiar mobile apps and games from Google Play" and tailor-made XR experiences.

If you're a sports lover, there's the NBA app for Android XR, delivering multiview (NBA League Pass subscription), matchups, stats, and more. The NASCAR XR app brings users closer to the high-speed racing action with a live 3D track map, driver telemetry, and more. The Xreal Aura delivers a 70-degree FOV, Sony Micro-OLED display (1200p resolution at 120Hz), and Sound by Bose, among a slew of additional features.

The day has arrived

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Consumers can order their pair on Xreal's storefront. However, the company states the glasses are also available at Best Buy today (Oct. 27). In 2027, Xreal plans to distribute the Aura XR glasses to other retailers and to select Google Stores in the U.S. and Japan.

Many have been waiting for launch day, and Xreal's CEO was quite pleased with its early positive reception. According to Chi Xu, reservations for the Xreal Aura topped 10,000 units around August. A couple of its reservation packages sold out, as consumers seemed to like Xreal's promise that the final price wouldn't exceed $1,500 before taxes. Chi Xu said the company felt "encouraged" by the early turnout, but it still had more to detail.

The Xreal Aura will have a selection of games available on launch, such as Project Hail Mary: Journey Among the Stars, thanks to an Amazon MGM Studios partnership, and Fallout: Factions from Modiphius Entertainment. Chi Xu said, "XREAL AURA sets a new benchmark for OST XR glasses, bringing powerful AI-driven experiences to both work and everyday life."

Android Central went hands-on with the Xreal Aura during Google I/O 2026, and we were blown away by it. The device felt like Xreal found a way to cram an entire VR headset into a pair of glasses (which weigh 95g, by the way).

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Samsung's open-ear Galaxy Buds On hit the US soon for $229

noreply@blogger.com (By Revirtech) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 11:45:14 -0400

What you need to know

Samsung’s $229 Galaxy Buds On arrive in the US in early November, bringing clip-on, open-ear listening to more buyers.
Each bud weighs 6.65 grams and wraps around the ear, with Samsung using over 119 million ear data points to refine the fit.
TwinBoost speakers and automatic volume adjustment aim to improve listening, while Audio Leakage Reduction helps limit sound leakage.

Samsung will start selling its Galaxy Buds On in the US in early November. The company’s first clip-on, open-ear earbuds combine an unusual design with AI-powered features for people who want to stay aware of their surroundings while listening, and at $229, they’re not cheap.

As we saw earlier this month with the reveal of the earbuds, the Galaxy Buds On are a departure from Samsung’s traditional in-ear Galaxy Buds. Each earbud clips around the ear with a flexible band for a secure, comfortable fit, instead of sitting inside the ear canal. Samsung says it used more than 119 million ear data points, AI-assisted optimization, and physics simulations to optimize the design for different ear shapes. Each earbud weighs only 6.65 grams.

The open design makes the Buds On a potentially useful pick for runners, commuters, and anyone who would rather hear approaching traffic or a coworker calling their name than shut the world out completely.

Better sound, fewer interruptions

The Buds On use TwinBoost speakers for richer sound, automatically adjust the volume to compensate for ambient noise, and use Audio Leakage Reduction technology to keep your music from becoming everyone else’s problem.

Three microphones use a Voice Pickup Unit sensor and machine learning to recognize your voice and separate it from background noise for calls. This means the system can make calls sound better in noisy environments.

Battery life is rated at up to 9.5 hours on a single charge and up to 38 hours using the charging case. That should be sufficient for several days of normal listening depending on usage.

Galaxy AI gets hands-free update

The Buds On also play to Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem. Users with compatible devices can launch Gemini Live using voice commands, long-press an earbud to record quick voice memos, and search recordings using Bixby via voice commands. With Head Gestures you can nod to accept a call or shake your head to decline a call.

Some features require compatible Galaxy devices and newer One UI software, so Android users outside of the Samsung ecosystem may not get the full experience.

Samsung has already released the earbuds in South Korea, and listings from European retailers have hinted at broader availability.

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