Android
Created by Google, Android is a smartphone OS and platform that is open-source and open for any manufacturer to use to make a smartphone. Most Android phones use a version that is mostly provided by Google and requires Google services. Android phones can run Android apps, available from the Google Play Store, or, optionally, from other sources.
by: Google
Google Bringing Agentic AI to Flagship Android Phones
Google today announced several new AI features for Android, that will start to roll out with new Samsung and Pixel phones this summer. Gemini Intelligence is agentic AI that works across your apps to perform multi-steps tasks for you. Examples include "snagging a front-row bike for your spin class", "finding your class syllabus in Gmail then putting the books you need in your cart", or, while looking at a shopping list in your notes app, "build[ing] a shopping cart with all of the items for delivery". Google Intelligence can continue a task in the background while showing progress via a live notification. It will also stop and ask for final confirmation before completing a task. Create My Widget is a new "generative UI" feature of Gemini Intelligence that will create new, custom widgets for your home screen simply from your description. This might include a countdown to an event, meal suggestions, or a custom weather widget that only includes the specific data you're most interested in. Finally, Google is also making its auto-fill feature smarter, using Gemini's Personal Intelligence to fill in more fields.
Android Auto Gets Revamp
Google has revealed the next version of Android Auto and Google Built-In for cars. A new layout includes edge-to-edge Google Maps navigation that better fits various display shapes, and widgets, such as contacts, weather, or a garage door opener. Google Maps also gains "Immersive Navigation", a vivid 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses, and terrain. It also aims to do a better job highlighting critical details, such as lanes, traffic lights, and stop signs. On supported phones, it will also surface Gemini Intelligence, the new version of Gemini with more agentic features. For example, "if you get a text from a friend asking for an address, Magic Cue will understand the context of the question, find the answer using information from your text messages, email or calendar, and offer to send a reply with the right information". This new version of Android Auto will roll out through the rest of this year.
Samsung Begins Public Beta Testing of Android 17
Samsung is releasing the first public beta version of One UI 9 — the company's spin on Android 17 — this week. Galaxy S26 series users can apply to join the beta program via the Samsung Members app. The beta software will start to become available this week in several countries, including the US. Notable new features in the beta OS include greater Quick Panel customization, as well as enhanced accessibility and security features. The final (non-beta) version of One UI 9 will debut on "upcoming Galaxy flagship devices later this year" and include new "advanced AI features" that may not be included in the beta version. Google is also offering public beta versions of Android 17 for its Pixel devices.
Cross-Platform RCS Messaging Gaining Encryption
Apple and Google have jointly announced the rollout of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messaging between Apple and Android devices. When RCS messages are end-to-end encrypted, they can't be intercepted and read while in transit between devices, improving privacy and security. Encryption will be on by default and will be automatically enabled over time for new and existing RCS conversations. On both platforms, a small lock icon will confirm when an RCS chat is encrypted. The feature requires iOS 26.5 or, on Android, the latest version of the Google Messages app. It also requires carrier support. The two companies still describe the feature as in "beta". E2EE was officially added to the RCS standard a little over a year ago, and Apple pledged to support it at that time.
Approximate Location Comes to Chrome on Android
Google is updating its Chrome web browser for Android devices to support the sharing of "Approximate" location data with web sites that do not need "Precise" location data, such as web sites offering local weather or news. This is a privacy-enhancing feature. Web sites that do need precise location data will still be able to request that from users. And new APIs will allow web developers to indicate which type of location data they need, to streamline the permissions process for users.
AT&T Launches New Sonim Phones, Including Thermal-Imaging Model
AT&T has started offering the Sonim XP Pro Thermal and XP5plus 5G. The XP Pro Thermal has FLIR thermal imaging camera on the back and comes with a dedicated thermal camera app with a wide range of tools for taking and analyzing thermal data in the field. Otherwise, the phone is similar to the standard XP Pro, a rugged Android phone with a relatively sleek design, extra shortcut buttons, support for pro field accessories, and extra-loud speakers. AT&T also launched the XP5plus 5G, a new 5G version of the XP5plus, Sonim's bar-style rugged feature-phone model that, uniquely, is available with or without physical knob controls on top. The new model doesn't just add 5G, but also upgrades the display, processor, and memory. Both phones are available from AT&T today. The XP Pro Thermal sells for $650 while the XP5plus 5G sells for $330. Sonim was recently acquired by Social Mobile, which has also rebranded itself Nexa.
TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro Lands at T-Mobile
TCL continues to makes inroads in the US market with its NXTPAPER matte-display technology, with T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile now offering the new NXTPAPER 70 Pro. The 70 Pro is an affordable 5G phone at just $200, yet offers TCL's unique NXTPAPER 4.0 display technology in a large 6.9" format with 120 Hz refresh, 50 megapixel camera with OIS, 5,200 mAh battery with 33W fast charging, an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of (expandable) storage. It also supports Bluetooth Auracast, is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, and launches with Android 16. A dedicated NXTPAPER switch on the side makes it easy to activate to special display modes like Color Paper Mode and Ink Paper Mode. TCL claims the battery can last up to 7 days with the display set to Reading Mode. The phone is also compatible with an optional stylus.
Insta360 Launches Screen Accessory for Better Selfies
The Insta360 Snap is a new phone accessory with a display (and optional ring light) that makes it easy to frame and shoot photos of yourself using your phone's higher-quality rear camera. The Snap can attach to the back of a phone magnetically (via MagSafe) and uses a wired connection to the phone via USB-C. The display is a touchscreen that mirrors the phone's main display, allowing full camera control. This also makes it compatible with third-party camera and social media apps. It's compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, as well as higher-end Android phones (that support DisplayPort via USB-C Alt Mode.) A magnetic ring is included to add magnetic attachment to phones that don't already have it. The version with integrated lighting lets the user adjust the light color and brightness. The Insta360 Snap is available now for $90 with light, and $80 without.
Samsung Sets End Date for its Own Messages App
This July, the Samsung Messages app for texting will stop working. Samsung's recommended replacement for its Android phones is Google Messages, which offers more functionality. Samsung started this transition last year when it made Google Messages the default messaging app on its new phones.
Google Brings Smart EV Route Planning to Maps in Android Auto
Google is updating Google Maps to include smarter route planning — including charging stops — for electric vehicles with Android Auto. You can now tell Maps your car model and current charge level to get a route that takes that info into account to estimate range, and suggest the best charging stops with compatible plugs. It can also recommend a charging duration at each stop, show an estimated charge level at each point of the trip, and give a trip duration that includes charging time. The feature is now available for "hundreds" of EV models from more than 15 brands, with more coming "soon".
Samsung Brings Support for Apple's AirDrop to S26 Series
Samsung is starting to bring compatibility with Apple's AirDrop to its Android phones via a phased software update. Google announced last November that it was adding AirDrop compatibility to Android's similar Quick Share feature. At the time, Google said rollout of the feature would start with its own Pixel 10 series, then expand to "more Android devices" over time. Quick Share and AirDrop are both designed to allow easy wireless sharing of files and content between two nearby devices, but were previously not compatible between iOS and Android. Samsung's rollout will start today with the Galaxy S26 series — the company's newest flagship phones — in South Korea. It will then expand to other regions, including North America, and then expand to other Samsung devices.
Game Trials Coming to Google Play
Google has announced a new feature of its Google Play app store that will let users download a paid game and play it for free for a limited time. Unlike separate demo games, this Game Trial feature will let users download the full paid game but restrict play to a fixed amount of time before requiring payment to continue. Users will then be able to pick up right where they left off. Developers must opt in to the feature. Google is working on adding more options for developers, such as a custom time limit or an in-game event to end the trial. Google is also expanding its push to make Google Play a cross-platform games store, serving PC games in addition to Android. It biggest change in this area is "buy once play anywhere", which allows a single purchase, at a single price, that includes both Android and PC versions of the same game.
Google Lays Out Details, Timeline for New App Store Rules and Fees
Following its settlement with Epic Games, Google has announced the details and timeline of how its new (and improved) app store fees and rules will work. Google will now charge a Google Play Billing Fee of 5% (in the US, UK, and Europe) that is separate from the "Service Fee". Developers will also be able to offer non-Google billing options to avoid the Billing Fee, both within their app and externally. Even so, the total fees Google will collect will drop by 16–42% for many developers, especially larger ones. The standard Service Fee for in-app purchases will drop from 30% to 20%. For developers who participate in the Google Play Games Level Up program or the new Apps Experience Program, the Service Fee will be only 15%, although only for "new installs" after the new rules go into effect later this year. These two programs are designed to "incentivize building great software experiences across Android form factors associated with clear quality benchmarks and enhanced user benefits". The Service Fee for recurring subscriptions will be 10%. Google also continues to offer even lower rates for the first $1M in annual earnings, effectively giving smaller developers a discount. For those developers, total fees might not change as much, but they won't increase. Most of these changes will go into effect in the US, UK, and Europe by June 30, adding Australia and the two new app-quality programs by Sept. 30. Other countries will follow, with full global rollout by Sept 30, 2027. Google is also introducing a Registered App Store program. To qualify, a third-party app store must "meet certain quality and safety benchmarks". Such stores will then enjoy a "a more simplified installation flow" when downloaded/sideloaded from a web site. Google will launch Registered App Stores "with a version of a major Android release by the end of the year", although it will initially be enabled only outside the US, then brought to the US at a later date.
Android's New Update Brings New Find My Features
Google is starting to release a new quarterly update to Android 16. This update introduces several new features, but the two biggest are related to location sharing. The first is the ability to share your phone's location with someone else directly in the Messages app. The location continues to update for any specified period of time, or whenever you choose to stop. The second is the ability to share the location of a tracking tag with an airline (or other entity), to help find lost luggage. A new "Share item location" option in the Find My hub will generate a unique web address that can be shared with most major airlines on their lost-luggage forms. The update is known as Android 16 QPR3 (QPR = Quarterly Platform Release) and, according to Google, has started rolling out. Newer Google Pixel devices will get the update first, and now other manufacturers can prepare their own updates.
Google Reveals Key New Features of Android 17
Google has released the second beta version of Android 17 for developers. In doing so, it has revealed a list of new features that users can expect in the new OS. The first is Bubbles, which is a full multi-window capability, like a desktop OS. Although most useful on large-screen devices like foldables and tablets, it will work on regular phones as well. "Users can create an app bubble ... by long-pressing an app icon on the launcher." Also new is a Contacts Picker, which gives apps a more privacy-oriented way to gather specific contact data. It works similarly to the Photo Picker introduced in Android 13, in that it puts the OS in-between apps and contacts data, so that only minimum necessary contact data is shared with the app, instead of the app being given unrestricted access to all contacts data. A new "Handoff" API will enable cross-device app handoff, where users can start a task in an app on one device (such as an Android phone) and seamlessly continue the same task on another device (like an Android tablet). The API supports both native app-to-app handoffs, and app-to-web handoffs as a fallback. Android 17 will also support two new ranging technologies: UWB DL-TDOA for indoor navigation, and the Proximity Detection feature of the newest Wi-Fi standards. Another new privacy-enhancing API is the EyeDropper, which lets apps gather a color sample from any visible pixel without needing to "see" other apps. Finally, Android 17 introduces new restrictions on messaging APIs, intended to keep third-party apps from maliciously accessing one-time passcodes (OTP).
Google Beta-Testing Agentic AI in Android
Google is beginning to roll out an "agentic" version of Google Gemini AI for Android, meaning you can ask Gemini to perform multi-step tasks on its own on your phone. Gemini will carry out these steps in a "virtual window" in the background, with a live notification showing progress on the task over time (with the option to stop at any time). The feature is strictly limited to select apps and devices for now, and is only in "beta" testing status. The feature is launching first on the Google Pixel 10 series and Samsung Galaxy S26 series. Initially, it is designed to work only with "select apps in the food, grocery and rideshare categories". As an example, you could ask Gemini to "reorder your last meal on DoorDash".
Google Releases First Beta Version of Android 17
Google has released the very first beta version of Android 17, intended only for developers at this time. Google continues to refine its Android version release cycle; now, instead of specific, monthly "Developer Preview" and public beta versions, Google has a continuous "Canary channel" where those who opt in will get new features and APIs "as soon as they pass internal testing". Google will still be aiming to reach the "Platform Stability" milestone in March, to be followed by "several months" before the final Android 17 release. Google is also still planning a more minor Android update for the latter part of the year.
AT&T Launches New Samsung Phone for Kids
AT&T is launching a new version of the Samsung Galaxy A16 with software fully tailored for use by kids, including comprehensive parental controls. The "AT&T amiGO Jr. Phone" joins an existing watch and tablet in AT&T's amiGO lineup. AT&T is also updating its amiGO watch with a more durable version. All amiGO devices support location sharing, geo-fencing, screen-time limits, approved contacts, app and settings control, and schedules for "school time", etc. The app for parents is available on both Android and iOS. The AT&T amiGO Jr. Phone is available now for $210, or $3/month.
Punkt Updates its Privacy-Focused Smartphone
Swiss phone maker Punkt has announced a new version of its privacy-centered 5G smartphone. The Punkt MC03 is an update to the Punkt MC02, with updated specs like a 120 MHz AMOLED (full-color) display, MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and an IP68 rating for dust and water. Like the MC02, it runs AphyOS (based on Android Open Source) and offers both a curated set of privacy-first apps (now referred to as "Vault"), plus the ability to run third-party Android apps with extra privacy options (now appearing in a separate section called "Wild Web"). New with the MC03, core apps like email, calendar, and cloud storage are provided by Proton. AphyOS continues to require a $10/month subscription for full functionality, which Punkt explains as replacing the money that other phone OSes make from selling your data. A one-year subscription is included. Discounts are available for purchasing several years in advance. The Punkt MC03 will be available in North America this spring for $699.
Clicks Launches New Ways to Add a Physical Keyboard to Your Life
Clicks — the company previously known for its keyboard cases — has announced two entirely new types of products: The Clicks Power Keyboard is a magnetic wireless charging power bank that snaps to the back of your phone but also has a slide-out physical QWERTY keyboard. Attached to a phone, it can be used in portrait or landscape orientation, and has multiple slide positions for phones of different sizes. It works with both iPhones and Android phones. It can also be used by itself as a small Bluetooth keyboard for a tablet, TV, or VR headset. Its battery is rated 2,150 mAh. The Clicks Communicator is a full-on Android 16 smartphone that can be used as a primary phone, or as a companion device to a traditional smartphone. It's designed to discourage "doom-scrolling" by having a smaller, 4.03-inch display. It has a notification light on the side that can light up in different colors for different contacts and/or apps. The physical keyboard is touch-sensitive for scrolling, and has a fingerprint sensor built into the space bar. It also has a 3.5mm headset jack. Its features are otherwise robust, with 5G (including good support for US networks), a 50 megapixel main camera (with OIS) and 24 megapixel front camera, 4,000 mAh battery, Qi2 wireless charging, NFC, Wi-Fi 6, and 256 GB of storage that's also expandable. The Power Keyboard will run $109, or $79 for those who pre-order soon. It ships this spring. The Communicator has a full price of $499, or $399 for those who "reserve" one before February 27. Those who pay in full when they reserve will receive two free back covers (worth $100 total). The Communicator will ship "later this year".
Motorola Refreshes moto g power for 2026
Motorola has revealed a new version of its moto g power, the company's $300 Android phone for the US. The new 2026 model is very similar to last year's model, with just a handful of changes. The battery size has increased from 5,000 to 5,200 mAh, at the expense of wireless charging. The display glass has been upgraded to Corning Gorilla Glass 7i for added protection. Finally, the front camera has been upgraded from 16 megapixel to a 32 megapixel sensor (pixel-binned to output 8 megapixel photos.) Other specs and features are unchanged, including a 6.8-inch FHD+ display with 120 Hz refresh, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chip, 8 / 128 GB memory, and a 50 megapixel main camera sensor (again, pixel-binned to output 12.5 megapixel images.) It also has as IP68/IP69 rating for water, military ratings for durability, expandable storage, headset jack, NFC, and a fingerprint reader. It will be offered in two Pantone colors: Pure Cashmere (beige) and Evening Blue. It will be available starting January 8, from Verizon and unlocked. Later, it will come to Cricket, Tracfone, Visible, Total, Straight Talk, Simple Mobile, and AT&T.
Google Brings Live Video Sharing to 911 Calls on Android
Google has launched a new feature of Android that makes it easy to share live video with an emergency dispatcher during an emergency phone call or text. Emergency Live Video on Android is a new feature that can be initiated by the dispatcher. "During an emergency call or text, a dispatcher can send a request to your phone to share live video. With a single tap, you can start securely streaming from your camera, allowing responders to quickly assess the situation and get you the right help in the moment." The feature requires no setup and works with a single tap. It is also optional (you can decline the request) and you can end video sharing at any time with a single tap. "The feature is rolling out today across the U.S., as well as select regions of Germany and Mexico, and is supported on Android phones running Android 8+ with Google Play services."
Samsung One UI 8.5 Will Offer New Features
Samsung has launched a limited beta program for its next version of Android, One UI 8.5. It includes a few key new features: Audio Broadcast will let you broadcast audio — including your own voice — to multiple nearby devices using Bluetooth Auracast. Proactive Quick Share will automatically recognize your contacts' faces in the photos you take, and suggest that you share those photos with those contacts. Storage Share will unify file storage between Samsung devices, letting you access files on nearby TVs, tablets, and PCs from the My Files app on your phone. The One UI 8.5 beta program will initially be available to Galaxy S25 series users. Eligible users can apply to join the beta program via the Samsung Members app.
Google's Second Release of Android 16 Brings Smart Notifications and More
Google today released an updated version of Android 16 (known as "Android 16 QPR2") with a range of new features. This is a new kind of update, the product of Google's new release schedule for Android. Now, major Android versions will come out every second quarter, and minor updates like this come each fourth quarter. (Unlike major version updates, these minor updates should require little work for app developers.) One key new feature is AI-powered notification summaries and prioritizing. Longer messages can be automatically summarized, and "Notification organizer automatically groups and silences your lower-priority notifications (such as promotions, news, and social alerts)". Another feature to help prioritize important communication is Call Reason in Google's Phone app, which will let you "mark call as urgent" when calling someone. This will display an "It's urgent" banner on the incoming call screen of the recipient. (This feature is "coming soon" and in beta.) Google is also updating Circle to Search so it can better determine whether a message is a scam or not. Google is also making key parental controls available in Settings (instead of having to open the Family Link app.) Google is also introducing a more aggressive "expanded" Dark theme option that will even dim apps not designed for dark mode. Finally, there are new options for customizing the look of app icons. As usual, Google Pixel devices will be first to receive the update, with other manufacturers following on their own schedule.
Google Adding AirDrop to Android
Google is improving Android's Quick Share wireless file-sharing feature by adding compatibility with Apple's similar AirDrop feature on iPhones. This will make it easier to share photos, videos, and other files with nearby phones, between Android phones and iPhones. The feature will have a phased rollout, starting today with the Google Pixel 10 series. Google says it plans to expand the rollout to "more Android devices" over time.
Google Loosens Stance on Side-loading Unverified Apps in Android
Google has announced new details of its plan to restrict side-loaded apps in Android to ones that come from "verified" developers. ("Side-loaded" meaning apps installed via means other than Google's Play app store, or soon, registered third-party app stores.) To address concerns that have been raised in response to the plans, Google has now announced two specific exceptions: First, Google will make an exception for apps that are only made available to a small group and not the general public. Developers of such apps will not have to go through "the full verification requirements". Second, Google will create "a new advanced flow that allows experienced users to accept the risks of installing software that isn't verified." This process will be designed specifically to thwart scammers that try to convince victims to install malware, the main issue the whole developer-verification system is intended to address. Google says it is still working out the details of these policies and systems, and is still inviting feedback on them.
Google Cracking Down on Battery-Draining Apps
Google is enhancing Android and its Play app store with a new power-efficiency metric for apps. If and when an app consistently crosses a threshold for "excessive" power usage, the app's public store page may show a warning about battery usage, and Google may limit how often the app is suggested. The new policy is slated to go into effect starting March 2026. More specifically, the metric measures "partial wake locks", which let apps keep the phone "awake" to perform background tasks even while the screen is off and the phone appears idle. Google's threshold for "excessive" is 2 cumulative hours in a 24 hour period. There are exceptions for certain activities such as audio playback and user-initiated data transfers. App developers can view this and other key metrics for their app(s) in Google's "Android vitals" dashboard.
Google Makes Maps Smarter, Conversational
Google is rolling out an update to its Google Maps app that integrates Gemini AI and adds several specific new features. Firstly, Google will now give directions using its knowledge of local landmarks, such as "turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant" instead of "turn right in 500 feet", and landmarks mentioned this way will be highlighted on the map. Secondly, voice search will be expanded to a full "conversational" AI assistant that can handle multi-step and multi-part questions and commands. For example, you will be able to say "Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route, something within a couple miles? … What's parking like there?" Followed by, "OK, let’s go there." Finally, if Maps is running, it will now proactively alert you to disruptions on the road ahead, even when you're not actively navigating to a destination. Landmark-based navigation and traffic alerts are rolling out now on Android and iOS in the US. Conversational AI will roll out on Android and iOS in the coming weeks "everywhere Gemini is available", with Android Auto "on the way."
Google, Epic Reach Settlement That Would Dramatically Reshape Play Store
Google and Epic Games have agreed to a new proposed settlement that would see Google revamp how its app ecosystem works, giving Epic most of what they have been seeking in years of litigation. Google has been on the losing end in a series of judgments throughout the process. Under the new agreement, Google's fee structure would become more complicated, but generally lower fees across the board. Google would allow third-party billing for in-app purchases, but still take a cut of either nine or 20 percent, depending on the purchase type and circumstances. Google would also separate out its cut for using Google Play billing as a separate five percent fee. Google will still require that developers provide Google Play billing as an option. Google also agrees to allow third-party app stores on Android, subject to its approval for security and privacy. The agreement, if approved by the judge in the case, would apply worldwide and stay in effect through June 2032.
Cricket, AT&T Update Entry-Level 5G Phones
AT&T and Cricket (which is owned by AT&T) have updated their own-brand entry-level 5G phones with minor changes and a somewhat new branding strategy for Cricket. The new Cricket Icon 2026 and Cricket Icon Pro 2026 join the Cricket Icon Plus 2026 that was launched a few weeks ago. This unifies most of Cricket's own-brand entry-level 5G phones under the "Icon" brand, similar to how T-Mobile has its REVVL series. All of the new Icon models are powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chip, but running at 2.4 GHz instead of 2.2 GHz on the models they replace. The new models also gain dual-SIM support via eSIM, Android 15, and support for 5G SA, ensuring the best network experience. Most other specs and features are similar to the models they replace, with the Icon 2026 replacing the Magic 2 5G and the Icon Pro 2026 replacing the Outlast 5G. The Icon 2026 does replace a 5 megapixel wide-angle camera with a 2-megapixel macro camera. The Icon has modest specs such as 4/64 GB memory and a 13 megapixel main camera. The Icon Pro steps up to 6/128 GB memory and a 50 megapixel main camera. All models have an HD-resolution display with 90 Hz refresh, as well as fingerprint reader, NFC, expandable storage, and a headset jack. Cricket is selling the Icon 2026 for $50 and the Icon Pro 2026 for $70 (promos for new lines can make the phone free.) The Cricket Icon Pro 2026 is also sold by AT&T as the Motivate Pro 2 5G, while the Cricket Icon 2026 is sold in select channels as the AT&T Propel 3 5G. The Icon / Propel 3 is manufactured by Tinno, while the Icon Pro / Motivate Pro 2 is manufactured by Coosea, just like the Icon Plus. Both companies have a long history of making white-label phones like this for AT&T / Cricket.
Apple Prepping "Transfer to Android" Feature, Including 3rd-Party Apps and eSIM
Apple is preparing to launch a new feature in iOS called "Transfer to Android" that will make it easier to switch from an iPhone to an Android phone. The feature will be able to wirelessly transfer an eSIM, as well as photos, messages, notes, and more. Third-party app data will also be included where app developers have enabled the feature, which is made possible by the brand-new "AppMigrationKit" API. This API can used for cross-platform transfers in either direction: "AppMigrationKit ... supports migration to and from non-Apple platforms, such as Android."
T-Mobile Launches Limited Data Service Over Satellite
As promised in June, T-Mobile today launched a set of data services on its T-Satellite service (that offers coverage in cellular dead zones using over 650 SpaceX Starlink satellites in orbit). The data services are limited to specific apps, and those apps have been customized to offer "core experiences and critical services" when using satellite coverage. Supported apps include a selection of both device-native and third-party apps, with parity across iOS and Android platforms. Device-native apps supported include Google Messages and Find Hub, Pixel Weather, Apple Music, Weather, and Fitness, and Samsung's Weather app. Third-party apps supported include AccuWeather, X, and WhatsApp, as well as outdoor-focused AllTrails, CalTopo, and onX. WhatsApp supports voice chat, video chat, group chat, and voice memos over satellite. For businesses, newly supported apps include Dialpad, Florian, MultiLine, and T-Mobile Direct Connect.
Google Brings Conversational AI Photo Editing to More Phones
Google is rolling out its new AI-powered "conversational editing" feature in Google Photos to more phones, (beyond the Pixel 10 series). When editing a photo, a new "Help me edit" text box at the bottom lets you simply tell it what you want to do, which can be traditional edits, full generative AI, or anything in-between. Google's examples include: "remove the reflections and fix the washed out colors", "restore this old photo", "remove the cars in the background", "make it look like he's in Waikiki and add a tropical drink to the right", or even just "make it better". It can take multiple requests at once, or in series. Google says the new feature is "starting to roll out" to all "eligible" Android users in the US.
Google Revamps Gaming Platform with new Sidekick and Profiles
Google has announced a series of updates to Google Play that focus mainly on gaming. The biggest new feature might be the Play Games Sidekick, an in-game overlay that includes a variety of relevant info, tools, and shortcuts. This includes quick shortcuts for screenshots, screen recording, Do Not Disturb, and going Live on YouTube. It also includes your profile and points, game tips, achievements, streaks, quests, and coupons. For "select" games, a Gemini Live AI assistant can interactively offer verbal game advice, based on what it sees on your screen in real time. Google is also revamping its platform-wide player profiles and points system. Finally, Google is officially launching Google Play Games on PC, expanding its game-platform ambition beyond Android after a beta period.
Samsung Begins Rollout of Android 16 to Rest of Lineup
Samsung is rolling out its One UI 8 software update — based on Android 16 — to its flagship Galaxy S25 series this week. The company recently launched its new foldables (the Flip7 and Fold7) with the new software. One key new feature is the Now Bar, which shows "real-time app activity and media player progress directly on the front screen". Next to receive the update (in October) will be the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold6, Galaxy Z Flip6, and Galaxy S24 FE. By the end of the year, the company will also provide the update for the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Fold5, Galaxy Z Flip5, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy Z Fold4, Galaxy Z Flip4, Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, Galaxy A26 5G, Galaxy A17 5G, Galaxy A17, Galaxy A07, Galaxy A06 5G, Galaxy A55 5G, Galaxy A35 5G, Galaxy A25 5G, Galaxy A16 5G, Galaxy A16, Galaxy A15 5G, Galaxy A06, Galaxy A54 5G, Galaxy A34 5G, Galaxy A73 5G, Galaxy A53 5G, and Galaxy A33 5G.
Bittium Teams up with HMD for its Newest Secure Phone for Government
Bittium, the Finnish company specializing in ultra-secure phones for western government users, has announced its newest phone: the Bittium Tough Mobile 3. This model will be a significant upgrade over the current model, offering 5G, a 50 megapixel camera, 12 GB of RAM, and a 4,500 mAh battery. Bittium has teamed up with HMD to manufacture the hardware. Among the many hardware and software security features, the phone comes with a dual-boot system featuring Android 15 for personal use and Bittium Secure OS for "Confidential" level use. It has a secure element, full disk encryption, and is tamper-proof. It's also rugged, with Gorilla Glass Victus, an IP68 rating for dust and water, and a military rating for shock and drop. It's powered by a Qualcomm Dragonwing Q-6690 FP4 chip, a chip not commonly used in phones. The phone will not be available until 2026.
Google Introduces Continuous On-Screen Language Translation
Google has announced an update to its "Circle to Search" feature on Android that enables continuous language translation of everything on the screen, even as you scroll and change apps. To access the feature, long-press the home button or navigation bar to start Circle to Search, tap the Translate icon, and tap "scroll and translate". The feature will come first to select Samsung Galaxy devices starting this week.
Google Brings AI Text Tools to its Keyboard
Google has announced an update to Gboard — its default keyboard software for Android — that introduces system-wide AI writing tools. This includes spelling and grammar fixes, proofreading, and rewriting in a different "tone", such as "formal, expressive or concise". This AI runs on-device (not in the cloud), ensuring privacy.
Google Barred from Requiring Its Apps on Phones with Play Store
A judge today issued remedies in the government's antitrust case against Google. Google won't be forced to divest its Android operating system, nor its Chrome web browser, as the Department of Justice had requested. Google will also be allowed to continue paying partners (including Apple) to pre-load Search and other Google products. However, Google will be barred from exclusive deals around the distribution of search, Google Assistant, Gemini, or Chrome. Google must also end its requirement that device makers pre-load Google apps in order to access the Play Store. It's unclear if Google will appeal.
Android Will Only Allow Side-Loaded Apps from Verified Developers
Google is introducing a new requirement in Android for side-loaded apps (those installed from sources other than the Google Play store.) In the future, Android will only run side-loaded apps that are confirmed to come from developers that have registered with Google and confirmed their identity. This feature alone won't prevent malware in side-loaded apps; but it does introduce a level of accountability when malware is found in a side-loaded app, making it more difficult for bad actors to be anonymous or hide behind multiple, fake identities. The feature will be enabled first in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026, then globally in "2027 and beyond".
