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Showing posts from August, 2026

Apple shares ‘shocking evidence’ against former employee accused of stealing company data for OpenAI

Apple says it has evidence that a former employee destroyed evidence of data theft after learning he was under investigation. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/2CfJUcl via IFTTT

a16z brings growth fund to $8.5B days after launching new $1.1B fund

Andreessen Horowitz held out its hand and returned with billions more in new funds to invest in startups. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/uRVNoMy via IFTTT

Lake Ontario is now ‘Lake America’ on Google Maps, but not for everyone

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Credit: Andy Walker / Android Authority TL;DR Google Maps is now starting to call Lake Ontario “Lake America” following recent executive orders. Last week, President Trump signed the executive order to rename the lake officially. Google says the new change is only visible for people in the US, while those in Canada will continue to see “Lake Ontario.” Last week, US President Donald Trump signed executive orders to officially rename Lake Ontario “Lake America,” his second re-christening, so to speak, of a body of water after the Gulf of Mexico . Following these official orders, Google Maps has started showing the name of the body of water bordering both the US and Canada. In an official announcement , Google noted it will start showing the lake’s new official name, as designated by the US Geographic Names Information System (GNIS). It said the official name change will appear on Google Maps, but only for people in the US. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/cZLVdBe ...

One of Google’s weirdest Pixel features is finally dead, and I’m going to seriously miss it

When Google introduced an infrared thermometer on the Pixel 8 Pro , the reaction from the tech world, and me, was pretty dismissive. It felt like a strange, pandemic-era feature that arrived two years too late, squeezed into the phone for no reason other than “why not.” Now, with the Pixel 11 series, Google has quietly killed the temperature sensor, dropping it from its flagship hardware. Replacing it is Google’s new HiLight notification light , which someone might call equally gimmicky in implementation. But I digress. It is easy to dismiss a smartphone thermometer as a useless gimmick. The space could have been better used for an IR blaster, a larger camera sensor, or even a bigger battery. But as someone who inadvertently ended up using it far more than I expected, I’m surprised to say I’m genuinely sad to see it go. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/WiZYm36 via IFTTT

I use Google Chrome every day, and these are my 10 favorite tips and tricks

There are many popular web browsers for Android . Still, Chrome remains the go-to choice for many users, including me. It’s fast, offers universal web compatibility, and packs plenty of useful features you won’t find on other browsers. As someone who’s been using Chrome for many years, I’ve picked up several tips and tricks that help me get things done more efficiently. If you use it on your Android phone, too, here are 10 of my favorite Chrome tips and tricks to help you with a range of tasks. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/0eiTjxW via IFTTT

There’s no GrapheneOS for Pixel 11 phones because Google cut a key security feature

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Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority TL;DR The team behind GrapheneOS has confirmed that they were unable to complete GrapheneOS for Google Pixel phones. GrapheneOS developers said this was due to Google’s new phones lacking support for the MTE security feature. The team says they might have to skip the Pixel 11 phones as a result and shift focus entirely to Motorola devices. GrapheneOS is the best custom ROM if you want a secure, private experience. Unfortunately, Google recently made it harder for developers to build custom ROMs for Pixel phones. Now, it turns out that the Pixel 11 phones might not get GrapheneOS at all due to a missing security feature. The GrapheneOS team announced on Mastodon that they were unable to complete GrapheneOS for Google Pixel 11 phones: from Android Authority https://ift.tt/FyNU3Rl via IFTTT

ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude quietly get worse over time. This hidden setting fixes them

I’ve been using LLM-based AI in some capacity for roughly half a decade, and in that time, the industry has changed significantly. Not only have newer competitors like Gemini and Claude arrived on the scene, but older tools like ChatGPT have also evolved dramatically. We’ve seen better third-party app integration, increased reasoning capabilities, and countless other advancements. However, I would argue that the ability to retain memories matters most. Retaining context from previous conversations helps the AI better anticipate your needs within a single session. It also allows the tool to learn more about you, ensuring that future conversations are tailored to your preferences. However, there is a real downside to memory accumulation that not everyone considers. I’ve found that starting with a new AI usually requires significant input to generate the responses I need and fully understand my user profile. Once it reaches this data “sweet spot,” the AI becomes much more pleasant to...

Is the best way to watch a movie on a pair of sunglasses?

Are XREAL's smart glasses the way of the future for home entertainment? from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/vrqYWkQ via IFTTT

The biggest video game of all time looks like a movie

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I think I know why Rockstar Games debuted its "extended look" of Grand Theft Auto VI on Netflix instead of immediately dropping it for free on YouTube. Unlike most video game trailers, the almost 27-minute preview of GTA VI felt more like a slice of a prestige crime drama than any video game trailer that I've ever seen. To make a new game that lasts another decade or more and potentially rivals the success of its predecessor, Rockstar is clearly trying to further blur the lines between Hollywood and video games. The line between games and movies has been getting consistently fuzzier. Look no further than this year's James Bond game, 007 Fi … Read the full story at The Verge.

Nvidia closes in on Hugging Face acquisition

Nvidia has reportedly agreed to buy Hugging Face, the popular open-source AI hub, for $12.9 billion in a move that would let Nvidia both protect its chip empire and jump back into the cloud business. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/6py5kW2 via IFTTT

Fitbit founders are back with a $250 wearable, but it’s not for counting steps

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Credit: Luffu TL;DR Fitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman have launched a new wearable device called Luffu Link. It’s a $249.99 screenless health and safety band designed for family care. The LTE-connected band tracks health metrics, records voice notes, shares location, and can contact trusted people without a phone nearby. Fitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman have launched a new wearable , but this time, it’s not focused on counting steps. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/g4L3BCF via IFTTT

India’s Ringg gets backing from Peak XV as it pushes voice AI past the phone call

Ringg has raised $10 million from Peak XV as a part of its Series A extension. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/SO2DiLE via IFTTT

India’s Airbound bags $37M to take on trucks with rocket-like drones

Airbound's ultra-lightweight approach to drone delivery has attracted backing from Greenoaks, DoorDash, and Silicon Valley investor Lachy Groom. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/At1LDZr via IFTTT

Sony’s Xperia 10 VIII just leaked ahead of its big reveal

TL;DR A leaked image appears to give us an early look at the Sony Xperia 10 VIII ahead of its August 25 unveiling. The phone looks remarkably similar to the Xperia 10 VII, retaining the flat back, horizontal dual-camera bar, and side-mounted fingerprint reader. Leaks also point to the same Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 and 8GB of RAM, leaving us wondering where Sony’s biggest upgrades will come from. A few days ago, we reported that Sony could unveil the Xperia 10 VIII this week. We may not have to wait until the event to see what it looks like, though. Android Headlines has now shared an image that appears to show Sony’s Xperia 10 VIII out in the wild. The image shows a woman holding the phone and looking at the screen. More importantly, we get a clear look at the back. The phone appears to have a white finish with a slight green tint, and if you’ve seen the Xperia 10 VII before, you’ll probably notice something immediately: Sony hasn’t changed much. from Android Authority https://...

GrapheneOS’ Motorola plans include 7 years of updates, foldables, and more

TL;DR GrapheneOS says it plans to support both regular Motorola phones as well as Razr foldables. The project says next-gen Snapdragon chips will bring the MTE and secure element improvements needed for GrapheneOS. GrapheneOS also requires a seven-year update commitment on devices. GrapheneOS has revealed a lot more about its plans to expand beyond Pixel phones to Motorola devices. The project has now confirmed that its Motorola partnership will eventually cover both traditional smartphones as well as Razr foldables. The privacy-focused Android operating system says its initial focus will be a regular, non-folding flagship, with the first supported Motorola devices expected to arrive in 2027. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/JVKkUlc via IFTTT

Another major Android phone maker caves to soaring RAM costs with price hikes

TL;DR Xiaomi is raising prices on several smartphones and tablets by up to ¥20,000 (~$137), citing soaring memory and component costs. The Xiaomi 17T Pro and several POCO X8 Pro models will get the biggest increases, with some models becoming around 25% more expensive. Xiaomi’s latest move is another sign that the memory shortage is forcing smartphone makers to pass higher component costs on to consumers. The RAM crisis is starting to hit smartphone prices hard, and Xiaomi is the latest major Android phone maker to cave to rising component costs. The company has announced price increases for several smartphones and tablets, with some devices getting a hefty ¥20,000 (~$137) increase. Xiaomi says soaring memory prices and other rising product costs have become too difficult for the company to absorb. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/r9ZQVwu via IFTTT

6 Android phones with microSD card slots you can still buy in 2026

The smartphone industry is finally feeling the full effect of RAMageddon in 2026, as prices have shot up across the board due to rising memory costs. Brands are no longer able (or unwilling) to absorb the higher cost of components, so this is now passed on to us, the consumers. Smartphones with higher RAM and storage now command a steep premium, even more so than before. Thankfully, a small segment of smartphones still exists that has a solution for the storage crisis — the microSD card slot.  It’s mostly entry-level and a few mid-range Android phones that still support the microSD card, but there are some good models to choose from. Flagship Android phones have largely done away with this feature, except for a few specialized models that aren’t widely available in the US. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/avqMZ9s via IFTTT

Two years after launch, Walmart’s Flipkart is closing in on India’s quick-commerce leaders

Flipkart's quick-commerce venture is delivering 1.1 million to 1.2 million orders a day, nearly triple its November volume. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/VBgN2q4 via IFTTT

Japanese space tech startup Letara expands beyond satellite thrusters with $16M

Japanese space startup Letara is betting its hybrid rocket technology can move beyond small satellite thrusters into a broader market for space, defense and security, after raising ¥2.6 billion ($16 million). from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/KOyXrSG via IFTTT

Anthropic’s Opus 4.6 is a smut-machine

Anthropic forbids its Claude models from generating sexually explicit content. But a series of tests conducted by TechCrunch found that it didn't take much to get past the restriction. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/QZl5w8k via IFTTT

AI data startup Micro1 reaches $500M gross run rate amid AI training boom

Surging demand for AI training data is driving rapid growth for the startup and its rivals. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/qJSRtIy via IFTTT

Learn what VCs actually want, from a founder who’s raised $1B

Investors want founders who understand the financial reality of their business. Messy data, misunderstood metrics, or waiting until you’re nearly out of cash to start fundraising can cost founders leverage, valuation, and even a term sheet. In this episode of Build Mode, host Isabelle Johannessen sits down with Sasha Orloff, founder and CEO of Puzzle […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/NdG7xWS via IFTTT

Qualcomm just teased two new Snapdragon 8 Elite chips

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority TL;DR Qualcomm has teased the arrival of two Snapdragon 8 Elite series chips next month. The company says these chips have the latest connectivity solutions and “extraordinary” GPU performance. We’re expecting Qualcomm to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chips. Qualcomm will hold its Snapdragon Summit next month, where it’s expected to unveil new high-end smartphone processors. Now, the company has officially teased the arrival of two Snapdragon 8 Elite series chips. Qualcomm posted a  video on social media teasing the debut of “Dual 8 Elites” and “twice the options” on September 22. The company added that these chips have the latest connectivity tech, “extraordinary” GPU performance, and “immersive” gaming experiences. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/TyU7mgn via IFTTT

Pixel 11 series quietly and exclusively adds one of the most useful new haptic features

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TL;DR The Pixel 11 series debuts custom vibration features we first uncovered in APK teardowns. Pixel 11 users can choose from a range of vibration patterns for ringtones and notifications, including Heartbeat, Gears, Rattlesnake, Pulse, and more. The phones also let you assign a custom vibration to individual contacts, making it possible to tell who’s calling without looking at the screen. Remember those custom vibration patterns we spotted hiding in Google’s apps last year? Turns out, they’re no longer just hidden in code. Google has quietly debuted them on the Pixel 11 series , giving users much more control over how their phone buzzes for calls and notifications. We first revealed Google’s plans to let Pixel owners customize their vibration patterns in an APK teardown of the Google Sounds app. The unreleased version we examined showed that Google was working on separate vibration options for both ringtones and notifications, allowing users to mix and match their preferre...

Samsung just set a date for its next Galaxy S26 launch, and this one is for the fans!

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Credit: Samsung TL;DR Samsung has announced a Galaxy Event for August 27 to introduce a new addition to the Galaxy S26 family. Samsung hasn’t named the device, but all signs point toward the long-leaked Galaxy S26 FE. Previous leaks have revealed most of the phone’s specs, including an Exynos 2500 chip, 4,900mAh battery, and triple rear camera setup. The last two months have seen quite a smartphone launch frenzy, and it’s almost time to welcome another big launch from camp Samsung. The company has announced a new Galaxy Event for August 27, where it says it will introduce the “newest addition to the Galaxy S26 family.” Samsung isn’t saying exactly what the device is, but at this point, it’s pretty obvious that it’s the Galaxy S26 FE . from Android Authority https://ift.tt/BNVqZ2I via IFTTT

Stripe didn’t really buy OpenRouter because of the ‘singularity’

What does a payments giant want with a startup that routes prompts between different AI models? Stripe says it's because of "the singularity" but it's really for a far more real and powerful reason. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/d0GMybH via IFTTT

The Pixel Thermometer app icon is finally getting a gradient makeover

TL;DR Google has updated the Pixel Thermometer app with a new gradient app icon. The new icon uses a white background and a blue gradient for the thermometer. The update also changes “Fitbit” to “Google Health” in the app’s options to connect thermometer data to Google Health. The Pixel Thermometer app might be niche for most users, but it can be pretty useful for quick temperature checks . While Google has removed the temperature sensor from the Pixel 11 series in favor of the new HiLight LED , older Pixel devices still support the thermometer app, and Google is now giving it a slight makeover. You’re reading an Authority Insights story. Authority Insights brings you all the latest exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage from the Android Authority team that you won’t find anywhere else. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/wrdu5f3 via IFTTT

A billion Telegram users could soon get their own domain

TL;DR Telegram has applied for a new “.gram” top-level domain. It could give users their own username-based domains in the “username.gram” format. The company might also let users create websites on their domains using natural language prompts. Telegram users do a lot more than just send and receive messages on the app. Telegram has useful bots and channels, and users can even manage their home lab with Telegram . Soon, the app might offer users a custom domain to host entire websites. In a new X post , Telegram founder Pavel Durov shared that the company has applied for a “.gram” top-level domain (TLD). If the application is granted, Telegram users could get their own username-based domains in the format: username.gram. Durov also added that Telegram might let users create websites on their domains with just one prompt. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/JrpaYLd via IFTTT

Googlebooks are finally getting their big reveal on September 15

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TL;DR Google is reportedly holding its Googlebook launch event in New York City on September 15. The event could finally reveal the official name of the Android-based operating system we’ve been calling Aluminium OS. Google is also expected to showcase hardware from its launch partners and give media hands-on access to the first Googlebooks. After multiple leaks of Googlebook devices from the likes of Lenovo , Acer , and ASUS , we finally have a date for when Google is expected to officially announce its new laptop platform and reveal the name of the underlying software that has, until now, been known as Aluminium OS. According to Chrome Unboxed , Google has invited media to an in-person Googlebook preview event in New York City on September 15, 2026. The event is expected to be a full hardware showcase, giving us our first official look at Google’s Android-based laptop platform and the devices that will launch with it. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/6WXg1Bw via IF...

Samsung’s One UI 9.5 could get a new connectivity hub, courtesy of Google

TL;DR One UI 9.5 could bring Google’s Satellite Connectivity Hub to Galaxy devices. It would allow users to connect to satellites and send messages or contact emergency services in remote areas. One UI 9.5 could also add a new “Debugging only” USB mode aimed at developers. Although Samsung recently launched the One UI 9 update for Galaxy devices, reports and leaks about One UI 9.5 are already circulating. We’ve seen several leaks regarding design improvements and other changes that could arrive with the update, and today, newly leaked screenshots reveal two more features Samsung could implement. According to screenshots from an internal One UI 9.5 build shared by Fahad Ali Javed on X , Samsung is working on a new “Satellite connectivity hub.” It could be a direct implementation of the Satellite SOS feature Google first introduced on the Pixel 9 series. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/XJpUdLk via IFTTT

Widespread outage hits Google Home and Nest devices around the world

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Credit: thefettyraf / Reddit TL;DR A widespread server-side outage is affecting Google Home, Nest Hubs, Nest Minis, and third-party displays globally. Symptoms include displays stuck on white screens or loading wheels, delayed voice responses, and failed automations. Troubleshooting steps such as rebooting or performing a factory reset currently do not fix the issue. Users must wait for a server-side fix from Google. Google kicked off the month with a fresh Google Home update that brought along new features for the smart home setup. iOS users did end up experiencing a hiccup when a bug automatically turned on their smart lights , but Google quickly fixed the issue . Sadly, there’s now a significantly widespread outage affecting Google Home and Nest users worldwide, affecting displays, speakers, and automations. According to a plethora of user reports on Reddit , the Google Home outage appears to affect a broad range of devices, including Nest Hubs, Google Home Mini/...

Anthropic’s annualized revenue surges to $65B

The model maker added $18 billion in annualized revenue in two months. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/3g5rJIL via IFTTT

Reddit’s AI is turning posts into podcasts and short videos

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Reddit is trying out a new way for people to take in content on Reddit: by turning text posts into audio / video content. As part of an experiment, some posts are being adapted into videos that use AI voices to read the text of the main post and some comments. The video highlights the text as it's read by the AI voice, and under the video, a note says that it's a "Real conversation voiced by AI." An old post in r/boardgames from eight years ago with 101 responses to a request for good road trip games that adults will like is an example of Reddit's AI at work . Instead of the usual text thread, it has the main question above a three-minute vi … Read the full story at The Verge. from The Verge https://ift.tt/XMx3TYp via IFTTT

Your Pixel could soon help you diagnose issues with calls, mobile data, and Wi-Fi

TL;DR Google is working on a new “Connectivity health” feature for Pixel devices. It will identify issues with mobile data connectivity, calls, and Wi-Fi. It will also help users fix identified issues with step-by-step instructions. Google offers plenty of options for running self-diagnostics on Pixel phones . Whether you’re experiencing touch issues or Bluetooth connectivity problems , your Pixel can help with step-by-step troubleshooting. Now, it seems Google is planning to make it easier for users to diagnose and fix common issues with mobile data, calls, and Wi-Fi on their Pixels. You’re reading an Authority Insights story. Authority Insights brings you all the latest exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage from the Android Authority team that you won’t find anywhere else. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/1l3DkEz via IFTTT

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 is a surprisingly feature-packed update

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Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority TL;DR Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 has been released with the new Quick Settings layout editor, more granular theming controls, expanded blur effects, and improved multitasking controls for foldables. Google is also adding new protections against call-forwarding scams by restricting apps from triggering call-forwarding USSD codes and requiring confirmation when users dial them manually. The update also fixes crashes in Quick Settings and incorrect battery health warnings. Google has released Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 over the weekend, giving Pixel owners another preview of the next major quarterly Android update . The latest build adds several user-facing changes, including the new Quick Settings layout editor , more granular theming controls, expanded blur effects, and improvements to multitasking on foldables. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Tkqda6R via IFTTT

8 Google Chrome flags that fix the browser’s most annoying issues

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority Chrome gets a lot of flak for falling behind other popular browsers in terms of features. And yes, some of that criticism is fair. But there’s also a long list of Chrome features most people never touch, simply because they’re buried in an experimental menu called “flags.” These are all features that Google hasn’t officially shipped yet, but they’re there if you want to try them. And while some of them aren’t worth your time or just too technical to bother with, there are a few that fix some of the most annoying browsing problems. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/EFH6cjV via IFTTT

Your Samsung phone has a hidden Settings shortcut menu — here’s how to enable it

No matter what Android phone you use, navigating the Settings app can often feel tedious. Sure, you can use the built-in search to look up a setting directly, but it isn’t effective until you type the right keyword, which isn’t always possible. If you use a Samsung Galaxy phone, though, there’s a nifty trick to make your frequently used settings more accessible. It involves creating shortcuts for your most-used settings and using them whenever you want to visit their page in the Settings app. I’ve been using it on my Galaxy S26 Ultra for a while, and it’s saved me a lot of hassle every day. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/cobPxAa via IFTTT

Polaroid’s tiny instant camera is $72 and includes a free pack of film

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The compact Polaroid Go is great for road trips and adventures. | Image: Polaroid Smartphone cameras are convenient, but they lack the charm of analog instant cameras. If you’re trying to relive the nostalgia of waiting for an instant photo to develop, Amazon is selling the second-generation Polaroid Go instant camera with a 16-photo film pack for $71.99 (usually $109.99). That’s the lowest price we’ve seen for the bundle, with a pack of film usually costing $21.99 on its own. Plus, it’s four dollars cheaper to buy the bundle than to buy just the camera on its own. Polaroid Go Instant Camera Generation 2 Where to Buy: $109.99 $71.99 at Amazon (with film pack) With its more compact footprint, the Polaroid Go 2 shoots on smaller film to match. Where classic Polaroid photos are 88mm x 107mm, the Go film is 53.9mm x 66.6mm, a great size for sticking to your bulletin board or stashing in your wallet. The camera has a USB-C port for charging the battery...

The Home Speaker is the wrong $99 Google Home gadget to buy in 2026

With the launch of the Home Speaker, Google trimmed down its smart speaker and display lineup. The Google Home Speaker costs $99 and replaces the now-discontinued Nest Mini and Nest Audio speakers . If you’re in the market for a new smart home controller compatible with Google Home, the Home Speaker is your cheapest option. However, there’s another $99 smart home controller that is a better addition to your Google Home than the Home Speaker: the second-generation Nest Hub. Google’s second-generation Nest Hub is somewhat of an afterthought in 2026 because of its age. The smart display was refreshed five years ago, but it shouldn’t be written off just yet. Google still sells and officially supports the Nest Hub, and it runs the same Gemini chatbot as the brand-new Home Speaker. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/F90ZflC via IFTTT

I tried 2 popular Flighty alternatives for Android, but there’s only one I’d pick

The idea that developers often prioritize Apple’s ecosystem is something we hear all the time, and one of the best examples is Flighty. If you haven’t heard of it, Flighty is widely regarded as one of the best flight-tracking apps on iPhone. Despite years of requests from Android users, myself included, it still isn’t available on Android. Sure, there are plenty of flight-tracking apps on the Google Play Store, but I’ve never found one that delivers the same polished experience as Flighty. Thankfully, that finally seems to be changing. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/CsImWXo via IFTTT

Talks to sell PayPal to Stripe and Advent are heating up

PayPal is still reportedly negotiating a potential sale to Stripe and private equity firm Advent, as the fintech firm's new CEO attempts to turn the company around. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/F4N1gMo via IFTTT

Google Meet can now take notes even for in-person meetings, here’s how

TL;DR Google Meet’s Take notes for me feature now works for in-person meetings. It creates a transcript, summary, and action items in a Google Doc after the session. The feature is rolling out to eligible Google AI and Workspace plans on Android, web, and iOS. We’ve seen speech recognition evolve rapidly over the past year. Voice typing is so accurate now that dictation is replacing traditional keyboards for some of us, with specialized software like Wispr Flow making it effortless to catch every word. Some brands have even turned to dedicated physical hardware to capture offline discussions. Now, Google wants a piece of that offline pie, and it doesn’t require buying extra gadgets. Google officially announced that its Take notes for me feature in Google Meet, previously locked to virtual calls, now supports face-to-face, in-person meetings (via 9to5Google ). Instead of serving purely as a video conferencing tool, Google is morphing Meet into a central hub for all your pr...

Samsung phones could finally get proper app lock with One UI 9.5

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Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority TL;DR A leaker reports that Samsung’s One UI 9.5 software includes an app lock feature. One screenshot suggests you can simply hold on the desired app’s icon and then choose the padlock icon to lock it. Another screenshot also hints that this tool has a lot in common with Android Canary’s recent app lock feature. App lock functionality has been a staple feature on phones from several Android brands. This lets you put apps behind a PIN or biometric scan. Unfortunately, Samsung doesn’t have a proper app lock system. Thankfully, it looks like this is changing in One UI 9.5 . Tipster Fahad Ali Javed (h/t: SamMobile ) uncovered an App Lock feature in Samsung’s upcoming software. The app lock icon appears when you press and hold an app icon in the app drawer. Check out the leaker’s screenshots below. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/uC5F16o via IFTTT

Trump declares 100 percent tariffs on many drones and all aircraft parts

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The United States has already banned future foreign drones from entering the United States unless their companies kiss the ring - as well as routers , robots , and Roombas . Now, President Donald Trump is targeting existing drone imports and parts, too. He's going to try to make them cost a lot more. In a presidential action , he's declared a whopping 100 percent tariff on imports of drones with thermal cameras, drones weighing over 25kg (57 pounds), and any kind of part for any kind of unmanned aircraft weighing over 25kg - you can read the full list here. For all other drones, including tiny sub-250-gram "Mini" consumer drones, he's declared … Read the full story at The Verge. from The Verge https://ift.tt/dFnyLpj via IFTTT

Apple and Epic argue over how much Apple should get from purchases made outside the App Store

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In a new filing in its long-running legal dispute with Epic Games, Apple has proposed a structure that would allow it to collect fees on digital purchases made via external links that don't use the company's in-app purchase system. Epic has already responded, saying that Apple's request is "far outside of the bounds" of the court's guidance. Right now, Apple cannot take a commission on external purchases after California district court judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled in April 2025 that found the company "willfully" didn't comply with her 2021 Epic Games v. Apple injunction . However, a Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals panel said that Apple … Read the full story at The Verge. from The Verge https://ift.tt/6JiXuez via IFTTT

Pixel 11 trade-in deals: Get a $1,250 discount and a free Pixel Watch 5

TL;DR The Google Store is offering up to $1,250 off the new Pixel 11 series and a free Pixel Watch 5 with the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Amazon is offering up to $825 off when trading in a Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Best Buy is also offering up to $1,000 off the new Pixel 11 series, plus a $200 gift card and a one-month membership to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The Pixel 11 series is finally official, and you can already pre-order the phones. If you’re planning to buy the latest Google Pixel and don’t want to use carrier deals , there are some great trade-in offers via other retailers. Pixel 11 trade-in deals Google Store deals The best trade-in deals on the Pixel 11 seem to be on the official Google Store . The company is offering an impressive instant discount of up to $1,000 if you trade in a Pixel 10 Pro Fold. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/ZiCMfr2 via IFTTT

Pixel 11 phones get seven years of spare parts to go with update policy

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Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority TL;DR Google has confirmed that the Pixel 11 phones will get seven years of spare part support. This matches the Pixel 11 family’s seven-year software update policy This also comes after the Pixel 8 series first offered seven years of spare parts. Google has just announced the Pixel 11 phones , bringing the Tensor G6 chip , a variety of nifty camera features, and seven years of updates. What happens if your phone breaks or has a battery issue during those seven years, though? Thankfully, the Pixel maker has some good news for consumers. Google confirmed during the Pixel 11 line’s Indian launch that the phones will receive seven years of support for spare parts. This support applies to all markets where the phone is sold, including the US. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/eIm6wLH via IFTTT

Pixel Watch 5’s biggest new safety feature is also coming to Pixel Watch 4

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TL;DR Pixel Watch 5’s new Breathing Emergency Detection feature is also now available on the Pixel Watch 4. The feature uses AI to analyze heart rate, motion, altitude, and blood oxygen signals to detect a potential breathing emergency and automatically call emergency services. It is currently available on Pixel Watch 4 and 5 in 10 European countries, with Google saying it plans to expand the feature to more countries. Google launched the Pixel Watch 5 just hours ago, and it’s now bringing one of its biggest new health and safety features to the Pixel Watch 4 . Breathing Emergency Detection, part of Google’s new Health Guardian suite of features, can detect when a wearer may have stopped breathing and automatically call emergency services if they don’t respond. According to Google’s blog post , the feature is now available on both the Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Watch 5 in several European countries, including the UK, Germany, France, Ireland, Austria, Denmark, the Netherlands,...

Google fixes Photos bug that removed the handy drag-to-select feature

TL;DR Google has fixed the drag-to-select bug in Google Photos. Users can now easily select photos and videos by dragging their finger over the items. The Google Photos app comes with a lot of useful features. You can use it to edit your photos , create collages, and more. However, one of its most basic and useful features recently stopped working for many. Several Google Photos users took to Reddit to report a bug that wouldn’t let them drag-to-select photos and videos in the app. Shortly after, Google confirmed it was working on a fix . from Android Authority https://ift.tt/meBwkfa via IFTTT

Google TV just got 10,000 free movies and shows to binge

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority TL;DR Google TV Freeplay now offers more than 10,000 free movies and TV shows on demand, with no subscription required. Google is also expanding Freeplay to more than 300 free live channels covering news, sports, reality TV, true crime, and more. The expanded catalog includes titles from studios such as A24 and Lionsgate, alongside new channels including Bloomberg TV Plus and Yahoo! Sports Network. Google is giving its free streaming service a major upgrade. Google TV Freeplay now offers more than 10,000 free movies and TV shows on demand, along with an expanded lineup of over 300 free live channels. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/0EhRWoz via IFTTT

India’s Yulu raises $93M as quick-commerce boom fuels e-bike demand

Yulu aims to have a fleet of 200,000 bikes in the next two years and faster electric two-wheelers, aiming at new logistics use cases. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/Xxf9KL2 via IFTTT

Saber denies replacing Rideshare Stimulator’s writers with ChatGPT

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After a former lead writer claimed Saber "replaced me with ChatGPT," CEO Matthew Karch now claims, "Neither Saber nor Unigine have replaced any writers with AI," for the Rideshare "Stimulator" game announced last month, developed by Unigine. The writer, Stella Sacco, says differently, however, posting on Bluesky that "I was lead writer on this one! And Saber replaced me with ChatGPT midway through development. All the passenger voices were AI too. Either they changed direction at some point or they're not disclosing it on Steam." Saber describes Rideshare "Stimulator" as an "immersive driving simulation game that puts you behind the wheel … Read the full story at The Verge. from The Verge https://ift.tt/dAG45gv via IFTTT

New Pixel 11 leak has good news for camera zoom, bad news for HiLight

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Credit: Evan Blass/LeakMail TL;DR A tipster has claimed that the base Pixel 11 lacks the HiLight/Pixel Glow feature and only offers 12GB of RAM. We wouldn’t be surprised if the phone only has 12GB of RAM, as the last two base models also had 12GB of memory. The leaker adds that you should expect a 10.8MP telephoto camera, but there’s no word on the focal length. Google will launch the Pixel 11 series tomorrow, and the standard Pixel 11 is expected to be the cheapest model. We’ve already seen some major leaks in recent weeks, but a leaker has now revealed a few more details about the vanilla model. Tipster @evowizz reports that the standard Pixel 11 won’t have the Pixel Glow or HiLight feature. That’s a shame if you wanted this glorified notification LED without paying a ton of cash. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/fI7JT4H via IFTTT

As AI-led attacks multiply, OpenAI launches a new cyber model

OpenAI is expanding its AI cybersecurity defense program Daybreak, and rolling out a new cyber-trained AI model with it. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/ySsNZbO via IFTTT

Jeff Bezos might finally get his hands on a sports team

Jeff Bezos is reportedly close to buying his first stake in a sports team: the U.K.'s famed Liverpool Football Club. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/XJNcFat via IFTTT

Google Play Store’s first experimental ‘Labs’ feature lets you ‘expand everything’

TL;DR Google has started rolling out the first experimental Play Store feature to some users. It’s called “Expand everything,” and it expands search results in the Play Store by default. The experimental feature can be enabled or disabled easily from the Play Labs option in Play Store settings. We recently spotted Google working on a new “Play Labs” feature in the Play Store. While the feature wasn’t working then, it has now started to show up for some users, bringing the first experimental Play Store feature in tow. You’re reading an Authority Insights story. Authority Insights brings you all the latest exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage from the Android Authority team that you won’t find anywhere else. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/pTxz8Gg via IFTTT

AI agent hacks gym booking system while trying to get its user a spot

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Credit: Stephen Radochia / Android Authority TL;DR An AI agent found a vulnerability in a gym booking system and used it to book classes months earlier than the software normally allowed. It then went a step further and removed another person from a waitlist, even though its user had never asked it to do that. What started as a pretty ordinary request to book a spot in a popular morning gym class turned into Australia’s first known autonomous cyber attack. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/YpP71ES via IFTTT

Verizon suffers another outage, this time after fiber cables were cut by vandals

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority TL;DR Verizon says vandals cut multiple fiber cables in Southern California, resulting in disrupted mobile and internet services. The carrier reports that repairs are underway and services are expected to return to normal within the next couple of hours. Verizon hasn’t said where the cuts occurred or how many customers are affected. Verizon customers in parts of Southern California are dealing with another service disruption, but this time the carrier knows exactly what caused it. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/8dVX4Pr via IFTTT

The Pixel 10 Pro is a flawed and inconsistent phone — and I’m still using it one year later

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I find it hard to believe that it’s been almost a year since I got my Pixel 10 Pro . Since August 28th, it has been my primary phone (almost) every day, and I adore this phone when it’s working as it should. The problem, as is often the case with Pixels, is that it doesn’t always work as Google intended. Looking back, it’s been a year of ups and downs with the Pixel 10 Pro, but it’s still the only phone I want to call my own. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/tEgUqeu via IFTTT

A Snapdragon-powered Pixel might sound amazing. Here’s why it’s a terrible idea

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Credit: David Imel / Android Authority It’s been roughly five years since Google first dropped Snapdragon silicon in Pixel phones in favor of its Tensor processors. I think it’s fair to say this move has been a double-edged sword for the company. Sure, there’s been good everyday performance, capable on-device AI, and great camera capabilities. But the transition also brought modem issues, heating problems, and uncompetitive peak performance. This state of affairs has led enthusiasts to urge Google to return to Snapdragon silicon, and it seems like an intriguing idea at first. But the more I thought about this possibility, the more I realized this probably wouldn’t be a great move for Pixel phones. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/NqPywtH via IFTTT

Don’t wait for the Pixel 11: Why you should buy the Pixel 10 right now

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The Google Pixel 11 series is nearly here, and a massive leak just a few days ago pretty much revealed all the important bits we’ve been dying to know. While nothing is official until Google takes the stage on August 12, it seems to align with most of the rumors we’ve been seeing this year. The Pixel 11 Pro series will once again shine the brightest, quite literally this time, with the new HiLight notification light . But there doesn’t seem to be much in store for the base Pixel 11, which begs the question — should you simply grab the Pixel 10 at a discount today? from Android Authority https://ift.tt/on3KNOj via IFTTT

Nitecore’s latest power bank is the lightest and most compact yet

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The Nitecore NB10000 Gen 4 power bank is a great option for endurance athletes and backpackers. | Photo by Thomas Ricker / The Verge There's two things you should know about me, your intrepid reviewer: I hate the feature creep associated with modern power banks , and I love shaving grams off the gear I carry when backpacking, bikepacking , and trail running. So imagine my delight when Nitecore released a new generation of its ultralight NB10000 battery. After a few weeks with it I can confidently say: Haribo be damned ! The $83.95 NB10000 Gen 4 weighs just 146 grams, according to my scale, and measures 1.45 x 11.6 x 4.68cm (0.57 x 4.57 x 1.84 inches), according to Nitecore's spec sheet. That makes it the lightest and most compact 10,000mAh power bank I can find. Even when … Read the full story at The Verge. from The Verge https://ift.tt/oJy1nOZ via IFTTT

OpenAI says it slowed Astra model development over security concerns

OpenAI said it has suspended work on some aspects of its upcoming model Astra over concerns about its cybersecurity prowess. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/nXZBt30 via IFTTT

Dell’s first Googlebook could borrow one of its most iconic laptop brands

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Credit: Google TL;DR A leaked benchmark suggests Dell may be preparing a premium Googlebook under its iconic XPS branding. The device is expected to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chip, up to 32GB of RAM, and a 13.4-inch OLED display. Dell joins Lenovo and ASUS as Googlebook hardware continues to leak ahead of Google’s expected launch later this year. Google’s upcoming Googlebook platform is steadily taking shape. After recent leaks revealed what Lenovo and ASUS are preparing, fresh evidence now suggests Dell may also be getting ready to launch its own premium Googlebook, and it could carry one of the company’s most recognizable laptop brands. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/cplsW7R via IFTTT

Android’s new Quick Settings editor has another trick: A customizable QQS layout

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Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority TL;DR Google’s latest Android Canary build includes another Quick Settings customization option that wasn’t highlighted initially. Users can also place the media player above Quick Quick Settings, changing what appears after the first swipe down. Just hours after Google rolled out the latest Android Canary 2608 build with its new Quick Settings layout editor , Google’s Mishaal Rahman has highlighted another neat customization option that didn’t make the initial announcement. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/oznbsrc via IFTTT

OpenAI’s first AI smart speaker reportedly won’t just talk, it’ll move too

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Representational concept image created by AI Credit: ChatGPT TL;DR According to a fresh report, OpenAI’s first hardware device will be a doughnut-shaped portable smart speaker without a display. The report says the device will have moving parts, cameras, microphones, and a price between $300 and $400. OpenAI reportedly plans to launch the AI-first device in 2027 as the first product in a broader lineup of AI-powered hardware. We first heard last month that OpenAI’s debut hardware product could be a screenless smart speaker . Now, a new report from Bloomberg adds several fresh details about what the company is building, including its unusual design, premium price, and how it plans to stand out from today’s smart speakers. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/uNqGWit via IFTTT