The brand-new Google Pixel Watch 4 is arriving soon, but Google isn’t leaving its old users behind. As recently spotted, the latest Wear OS 6 software is already rolling out to previous generation Pixel Watches, ensuring they get the newest features without needing an upgrade.
What’s in the new update?
Just as the shiny new Pixel Watch 4 is set to hit store shelves, Google has started pushing its latest software, Wear OS 6, to the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3. It’s always a bit of a nail-biter wondering if older tech will get left in the dust when a new model comes out, but Google is doing right by its users this time.The update appears to be rolling out widely, with users on Reddit from different locations (U.S. to Europe), reporting that they’ve received it — suggesting this isn’t a limited release. It’s great to see Google getting this update out the door so quickly, bringing fresh features to watches that are one or two years old. This move ensures that users who aren’t quite ready to shell out for new hardware can still enjoy the latest and greatest software experience Google has to offer.
The Pixel Watch 2 and 3 are now getting the Wear OS 6 update. | Image credit — PhoneArena
In the world of smartwatches, software support is a massive deal. It’s what keeps your device feeling new, secure, and functional. For a long time, the Wear OS ecosystem was a bit of a mess, with inconsistent updates. However, Google’s current approach puts it in a much better position against its main rival, Samsung. While Samsung also uses Wear OS, they have their own spin on it as well as their own update schedule and promise a solid four years of OS upgrades for their Galaxy Watches.By delivering Wear OS 6 to older models simultaneously with the launch of the Pixel Watch 4, Google is sending a clear message that they are serious about supporting their hardware. This builds confidence in the Pixel ecosystem and makes the older watches a far more tempting value proposition.
This is the way it should be
Launching a new device while simultaneously updating the old ones is a fantastic, pro-consumer move. It shows that Google is committed to the long-term experience, not just the initial sale, and it makes me feel a lot better about recommending a Pixel Watch to friends and family.While the Pixel Watch 4 will undoubtedly have hardware advantages, the fact that a Pixel Watch 2 or 3 user gets the refreshed Wear OS 6 experience is a huge win. For me, it makes holding onto an older device for another year a very viable option.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Relive the most iconic and unforgettable phones from the past 20 years! Iconic Phones is a stunningly illustrated book we’ve been crafting for over a year—and it’s set to launch in just a couple of months!
Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips is the ultimate coffee table book for any phone enthusiast. Featuring the stories of more than 20 beloved devices, it takes you on a nostalgic journey through the mobile revolution that transformed our world. Don’t miss out—sign up today to lock in your early-bird discount!
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Attention bargain hunters — Prime Big Deal Days is finally live! The October savings event is the perfect time to upgrade your tech without spending too much, especially if you’ve been eyeing the Google Pixel 9. This compact phone is now available for just under $550 — a massive $250 off the 128GB variant’s MSRP of about $800.
The Pixel 9 is a rare $250 off for Prime Day
$250 off (31%)
Prime Day is the ideal time to get the compact but impressive Google Pixel 9. Right now, Amazon sells this capable Android phone for $250 off. The Prime-exclusive promo will last for only 48 hours, so act fast and save while it lasts.
Buy at Amazon
While Amazon has launched multiple deals on this puppy, this $250 discount is a first in months, making it as rare as can be. Feeling tempted? Take advantage of this Prime-exclusive deal in the next 48 hours. Sure, the Google Pixel 10 is newer, features a triple camera system, and has a slightly brighter display. But does everyone really need all this when its predecessor already hits impressive brightness levels, takes solid photos, and is now available for just under $550?
According to our tests, the Pixel 9’s 6.3-inch OLED display reaches an incredible 1970 nits — expect no issues with outdoor visibility. With beautiful colors and a snappy 120Hz refresh rate, this handset delivers a dazzling visual experience.
What about the camera? While it lacks a telephoto lens, the handset is actually quite capable with its 50MP main sensor and 48MP ultra-wide unit on the rear. In our Google Pixel 9 review, you can find multiple camera samples that’ll give you an idea of just how impressively it captures memories.
Featuring a Tensor G4 chip under the hood, this Android phone also offers a plethora of AI features, including Pixel Studio, Reimagine, Add Me, and Gemini Nano. While it’s not powerful enough to rival the best compact phones, it delivers a smooth and lag-free experience. What more could you need?
All things considered, the Google Pixel 9 is a great choice if you’re after a compact device with Gemini AI, long software support, and excellent camera capabilities. If it sounds like the right fit for you, now’s your chance to get it for $250 off.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Rediscover some of the most unique and memorable phones of the last two decades! “Iconic Phones” is a beautifully illustrated book that we’ve been working on for over a year – and it’s coming out in just a couple short month!
“Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is a must-have coffee table book for every phone lover out there. Covering the stories of more than 20 fan-favorite phones, it takes you on a memorable journey through the technological revolution that shaped our lives. Sign up now to secure an early discount price!
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My Pixel 6 Pro should have lost support after it received Android 15 in October 2024. My phone and the Pixel 6 were each promised three years of Android updates. Then, Samsung decided to offer seven years of Android updates with the release of the Galaxy S24 series in January 2024 and that led Google to extend the number of Android updates for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 lines to five. So not only was I able to update my phone to Android 16, my Pixel 6 Pro will also receive Android 17 next year.
Google’s Certified Refurbished Pixel Phone program offers buyers older Pixel models at a huge discount to their launch prices
Last year, Google introduced the Certified Refurbished Pixel Phone program for Pixel models. Under this program, previously owned Pixel models, starting with the Pixel 6 series, were priced with as much as a 40% discount from a model’s original retail price. These phones are put through a refurbishing process that inspects the device’s battery, display, and casing. Any necessary repairs are made using genuine Google parts. Each refurbished model will have the latest version of Android pre-installed, a compatible charger placed in the new box and given a one-year warranty.
As a result, last year the refurbished Pixel 6, at $339, was the cheapest ticket into the Pixel ecosystem. The Pixel 6 Pro was priced at $539. Now, Google has removed the Pixel 6 series from the Certified Refurbished Pixel Phone program leaving the Pixel 7a ($339), and the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro priced at $359 and $538, respectively. The reason Google dropped the Pixel 6 line from the program was due to the short time the phones have left until they lose Google support, a little over a year from now.
More models will soon be joining the program
The Pixel 6a, the first Tensor-powered mid-range model, has been given two additional years of support and will now receive Android 18. The device was removed from the Certified Refurbished Pixel Phone program due to the battery issues that the model had which caused fires. While the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro weren’t pulled from the program, those models were also blamed for starting fires due to battery issues.
The current line up at the Google Store for the Certified Refurbished Pixel Phone program. | Image credit-Google
We should soon see more refurbished Pixels join the program. Last month the Pixel 8 Pro briefly appeared in the Google Store’s refurb page before it was removed the next day suggesting that newer Pixel models will be added soon. Until then, the Certified Refurbished Pixel Phone program includes the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro only. There is also something else that you need to know and it is very important because it’s about the battery.
There is something you need to know about the batteries on refurbished Pixel units
While Apple’s refurbished iPhones come with a guaranteed new battery, and Samsung will change the battery to include one that is at 100% capacity or close to it. Google, on the other hand, doesn’t change the battery and includes the one that came with the phone when traded-in. The only thing that Google says about the battery powering its refurbished Pixel models is that it’s in “good working order” and holds a charge.
If you’re interested in a refurbished Pixel, you can find more information from the Google Store’s dedicated page made for refurbished Pixel models. As we noted, Apple and Samsung also offer refurbished versions of their phones. Such devices are believed to make up 10% to 15% of the total smartphone market in the U.S. Helping to fuel demand is the high cost of flagship smartphones which are well over $1,000. Those worried about the environment would prefer to see a previously owned handset finding a second life rather than seeping chemicals into a landfill.
Additionally, the process of refurbishing a phone has improved greatly over the years. Such devices are reliable purchase options for those looking to save money buying a specific smartphone model.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Good news everyone! Over the past year we’ve been working on an exciting passion project of ours and we’re thrilled to announce it will be ready to release in just a few short months.
“Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is a must-have coffee table book for every tech-head that will bring you on a journey to relive the greatest technological revolution of the 21st century. For more details, simply follow the link below!
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Pixel 10 was released almost two months ago, so it’s only natural for rumors about its successor to start coming. The Pixel 11 may see Google leaving Samsung once again and using another 5G modem.
Google may switch to a MediaTek 5G modem
Google may part ways with Samsung again and stop using its Exynos 5400i 5G modem on the Tensor 6 chipset. Instead, the company may switch to the MediaTek M90 modem for the Pixel 11, according to a leak from Mystic Leaks.
That won’t be the first time we’re hearing a similar rumor. Late last year, similar reports claimed that Google would use a MediaTek modem in the Pixel 10 series. That rumor didn’t materialize, and the Pixel 10 kept the Samsung modem used on the Pixel 9.
M90 is the latest 5G modem from MediaTek, which the company announced at the Mobile World Congress in February. The chip offers “dual 5G SIM dual-active support with dual data capabilities,” and up to 12Gbps downlink performance, according to MediaTek. The company says it’s using AI for better power efficiency and improved performance.
Another blow for Samsung’s foundry
Google used to rely on Samsung not only for the modems, but also for the production of the chips powering its Pixel phones. However, with the Tensor G5, the company switched to a fully custom chip design, produced by TSMC.
Google is not the only one shuffling its 5G modems. Apple introduced its own C1 modem with the iPhone 16e, and the improved C1X with the iPhone Air. While the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max rely on Qualcomm modems, early iPhone 18 rumors claim it’ll also use Apple’s own modem.
Funnily enough, even Samsung relies on the Qualcomm X80 modem for the Galaxy S25 series, which are its best phones. However, that’s likely to change with the Galaxy S26, which is rumored to use the Exynos 2600 chipset.
It’s all about performance
I don’t think many people are passionate about the 5G modem in their phones, at least not directly. However, everyone wants to get better connectivity and longer battery life. If switching to a MediaTek modem helps Google achieve that, I think everyone will be happy.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Relive the most iconic and unforgettable phones from the past 20 years! Iconic Phones is a stunningly illustrated book we’ve been crafting for over a year—and it’s set to launch in just a couple of months!
Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips is the ultimate coffee table book for any phone enthusiast. Featuring the stories of more than 20 beloved devices, it takes you on a nostalgic journey through the mobile revolution that transformed our world. Don’t miss out—sign up today to lock in your early-bird discount!
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Ilia, a tech journalist at PhoneArena, has been covering the mobile industry since 2011, with experience at outlets like Forbes Bulgaria. Passionate about smartphones, tablets, and consumer tech, he blends deep industry knowledge with a personal fascination that began with his first Nokia and Sony Ericsson devices. Originally from Bulgaria and now based in Lima, Peru, Ilia balances his tech obsessions with walking his dog, training at the gym, and slowly mastering Spanish.
The Google Pixel 10 phones are out, and the more budget-conscious consumers now look to 2026 for the Google Pixel 10a. While some leaked specs paint the Pixel 10a as an underwhelming phone, there are some features that it could have which would convince many buyers like myself.
Let’s go over some of the absolute must-haves that Google should definitely add to the Pixel 10a to make it a worthwhile budget phone next year.
Gemini’s best new tools
Google Pixel 10 has excellent AI tools, when they work. | Image credit — Google
With the Pixel 10 series, Google announced some really cool new AI features, powered by Gemini. Two of the best, perhaps, are Magic Cue and Camera Coach.
Magic Cue is basically the sort of AI digital assistant that phone manufacturers have been trying to perfect ever since modern Artificial Intelligence went mainstream. With Magic Cue, you don’t have to keep asking for advice or telling it to perform a task: Gemini does all of that proactively. Camera Coach, meanwhile, guides users on how to take the perfect photo in any setting.
However, some leaks point to the Pixel 10a shipping with the Tensor G4 chipset, instead of the new Tensor G5. If that happens, then the 10a most likely will not support Google’s new AI features.
Some people could not care less about AI features on their phone, but I think that Google’s new phones should not release without the company’s heavily-advertised AI features.
A screen that doesn’t look so outdated
The bezels on the Pixel 9a weren’t great. | Image credit — PhoneArena
Look, a display is perhaps the most important part of a smartphone. Unfortunately, the Google Pixel 9a didn’t have a great one.
Sure, its resolution was good, and so was the refresh rate and peak brightness, but those bezels are just awful. I can excuse slightly thicker bezels on a budget phone — not every manufacturer needs to be shaving off every 0.1 mm that it can — but not like this.
The Google Pixel 9a, simply put, looks very outdated. If the Pixel 10a wants to stand a chance in 2026, it needs to make a good first impression. It is, after all, going to be competing with the likes of the iPhone 17e and the Galaxy S26 FE, even if it might be a bit cheaper than those two.
At least the same battery as Pixel 9a
Pixel 9a has a decent battery. | Image credit — PhoneArena
Nowadays, everyone seems to be releasing super slim phones with tiny batteries. Apple and Samsung have set the stage for the future of smartphones with the iPhone Air and the Galaxy S25 Edge. Others are following suit, like with the Tecno Slim and the Motorola X70 Air.
Google may or may not decide to slim down the Pixel 10a. If it does, the phone needs to at least keep the same battery capacity as its predecessor. Funnily enough, the Pixel 9a had a larger battery (5,100 mAh) than the base model Pixel 9 (4,700 mAh). Meanwhile, the new Pixel 10 has a battery capacity of 4,970 mAh.
The battery on the Pixel 10 isn’t bad, but it’s not excellent, either. This is an age of phones boasting battery capacities of 8,000 mAh and up. Next year, we’re going to see phones with battery capacities of 10,000 mAh and higher.
Now is not the time to be sliming down your batteries, unless it’s a new model that was made specifically for that purpose, I suppose. So, the Google Pixel 10a should at least carry over the Pixel 9a’s 5,100 mAh capacity, though I wouldn’t say no to a better battery.
What I am okay with
The Pixel 9a looks good enough. | Image credit — PhoneArena
There are some other reports that aren’t worth getting hung up on, in my opinion. Here are some of the things that wouldn’t really bother me on the Pixel 10a.
The same exterior design as the Pixel 9a
Same resolution and refresh rates for the display
The same decent, but not excellent, cameras
Same dual speaker setup as before
Display size remaining at 6.3 inches
Weighing the same as Pixel 9a
Yeah, it’s mainly the bezels and the AI features that will make or break the Pixel 10a for me, and very likely for you too.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Rediscover some of the most unique and memorable phones of the last two decades! “Iconic Phones” is a beautifully illustrated book that we’ve been working on for over a year – and it’s coming out in just a couple short month!
“Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is a must-have coffee table book for every phone lover out there. Covering the stories of more than 20 fan-favorite phones, it takes you on a memorable journey through the technological revolution that shaped our lives. Sign up now to secure an early discount price!
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Google’s phone carrier Google Fi is starting to push out a new way to give you a heads-up about what your next bill might look like.
AI sneaks into your phone bill
A new report says Google Fi is now adding AI billing summaries right inside its app and on the web. Basically, you will see a short AI-generated breakdown on the Home tab explaining why your bill is higher or lower than usual.This is a server-side update, so you don’t need to lift a finger – once it reaches you, it will just show up. Here’s what the AI summary actually does:
Tells you why your bill is higher or lower this month
Highlights changes compared to the previous month
Sticks around for 10 days after the bill is generated
But there’s a catch: Google warns you not to fully rely on it. The company admits the AI might spit out incorrect info, so if you want the most accurate details, you should still check your detailed billing statement.After all, AI has a track record of “hallucinating” and making stuff up. So while this is handy for a quick preview, you’ll want to double-check before panicking over any surprise charges.
Google wants AI everywhere – even in your bills
This is how an AI summary looks like. | Image credit – 9to5Google
Even if it is a minor tweak that might not grab everyone’s attention, it is clear Google is serious about weaving AI into every part of our digital lives. Actually, bigger carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile do the same, too.
A nice idea, if it actually works
Personally, I can see this being reassuring for some people. This way, many won’t even have to look at their bill anymore. That is, of course, if the AI (probably powered by Gemini) doesn’t mess it up. We’ll find out soon enough once more users get it – and if it’s buggy, you can bet online forums will be full of complaints.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Rediscover some of the most unique and memorable phones of the last two decades! “Iconic Phones” is a beautifully illustrated book that we’ve been working on for over a year – and it’s coming out in just a couple short month!
“Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is a must-have coffee table book for every phone lover out there. Covering the stories of more than 20 fan-favorite phones, it takes you on a memorable journey through the technological revolution that shaped our lives. Sign up now to secure an early discount price!
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Based on comments made by Reddit contributors, it appears that Google is bringing back a useful feature to the Pixel Launcher. When using the search bar at the top of the launcher to type in the name of an app you’re looking to open, the result you see at the top is the icon of the app if it is installed on your phone. Tap that icon and the app opens. Tap the magnifying glass icon in the bottom right corner instead, and a web search is conducted for the app you searched for. The latter is not the result you want.
A limited number of Pixel users on Reddit have discovered the return of a popular shortcut. With this feature, when you type the name of an app into the Pixel Launcher’s search bar, the name of the app is highlighted and the word “open” appears next to the name of the app. The button at the bottom right of the screen no longer is a magnifying glass and is an arrow/enter button. Tapping on that will open the app instead of conducting a search for it.
At left, the old look for the Pixel Launcher app search. The new look is at right. | Image credit- Android Authority
Yes, this really might not seem like a big deal to many, but it does save you from having to move your finger off the screen from the bottom right to tap an icon near the top of the display in order to open the app. With the shortcut, you simply slide your finger from the keyboard to the right where the arrow should be. Granted, this won’t add years to your life, although it might help your swiping finger feel better.
I can tell you that this is a very limited test being run by Google at the moment. The feature does not appear on my Pixel 6 Pro running the latest version of the Android 16 QPR2 Beta release. Most Pixel users I’ve been in touch with have yet to see this Pixel Launcher shortcut appear on their phone.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Good news everyone! Over the past year we’ve been working on an exciting passion project of ours and we’re thrilled to announce it will be ready to release in just a few short months.
“Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is a must-have coffee table book for every tech-head that will bring you on a journey to relive the greatest technological revolution of the 21st century. For more details, simply follow the link below!
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Google is rolling out a software update for its Pixel Buds Pro 2, aimed at improving both audio quality and the Gemini experience.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 update will be rolled out gradually
After teasing the major update during its Made by Google 2025 event, Google has finally started rolling it out for the Pixel Buds Pro 2. The update (version 4.467) is hitting devices in stages, so don’t panic if you don’t see it immediately – it’s coming.To make sure you get it, keep your Pixel Buds Pro 2 charged and connected to your phone, and update to the latest Google app. But what’s actually inside this update, you wonder?
First off, there’s Adaptive Audio and Loud Noise Protection. Adaptive Audio automatically adjusts your earbud volume based on your surroundings – perfect for when you move from a quiet room to a busy street. Loud Noise Protection, on the other hand, automatically tones down sudden loud noises.
But Google didn’t stop there. You also get head gestures for calls and texts. Nodding your head can answer a call or reply to a message, while shaking it lets you decline. And finally, Gemini Live gets an upgrade for noisy environments. Advanced audio processing prioritizes your voice and cuts out background chatter, so your conversations stay clear – even when chaos is happening all around you.
So, in short, this update adds:
Adaptive Audio
Loud Noise Protection
Head gestures for calls and texts
Clear Gemini Live interactions in noisy environments
How to get the update
If your Pixel Buds Pro 2 is connected to a Pixel or Android 6.0+ device, the firmware update downloads automatically. It usually takes about 10 minutes, and yes – you can keep using your earbuds while it does its thing. The actual installation kicks in the next time you place the earbuds in their charging case (with enough battery), which also takes about 10 minutes.
If you’ve turned off automatic updates, you can manually trigger it from the Pixel Buds app:
Pop your earbuds securely into the charging case.
Open the Google Pixel Buds app.
Go to More settings → Firmware update.
Tap Manual update available and follow the on-screen instructions. This will take about 15 minutes.
Taking Pixel Buds Pro 2 to the next level
Pixel Buds Pro 2. | Image credit – PhoneArena
With this update, Google is bringing the Pixel Buds Pro 2 closer to competitors like the AirPods Pro 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. Adaptive Audio is now on par with other flagship earbuds, and head gestures finally give them a practical, hands-free edge. But the real kicker is Gemini AI – Google is turning the Pixel Buds Pro 2 into a more capable assistant, not just a device for music or calls, making them smarter than ever.
Smarter, clearer, finally
When we first tried the Pixel Buds Pro 2, the sound and noise cancellation were excellent, but the “smart” features felt underwhelming. This update changes that. Calls, texts, and Gemini Live interactions are now more intuitive and reliable, especially in noisy environments, making the earbuds a genuinely smarter companion for day-to-day use.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Rediscover some of the most unique and memorable phones of the last two decades! “Iconic Phones” is a beautifully illustrated book that we’ve been working on for over a year – and it’s coming out in just a couple short month!
“Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is a must-have coffee table book for every phone lover out there. Covering the stories of more than 20 fan-favorite phones, it takes you on a memorable journey through the technological revolution that shaped our lives. Sign up now to secure an early discount price!
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The Google Pixel 10a — a budget offering for the Pixel 10 lineup — is likely going to follow the release schedule of the Google Pixel 9a. Which means that the phone will probably launch in April of next year.
But is the Pixel 10a worth waiting for? Here are the five rumored features, or lack thereof, that we currently know of for Google’s budget offering of 2026. The Pixel 10a might sound great, or it might not, your mileage may vary.
An older processor
Google Pixel 9 uses the Tensor G4. | Image credit — PhoneArena
Though Google introduced the Tensor G5 chip this year for the Pixel 10 phones, current reports indicate that the Pixel 10a will still use the Tensor G4 instead.
The Tensor G4 was already not a powerful chip when it debuted with the Google Pixel 9 series, so its use in 2026 will be…difficult to justify. Of course, it’s not a bad chip by any stretch of the imagination, but if you were hoping for a repeat of the Pixel 9 series — where each phone used the same chip — then you’re in for a disappointment.
The same streamlined design
Google Pixel 9a dropped the camera bar. | Image credit — PhoneArena
To not much surprise, the Pixel 10a will reportedly look the same as the Pixel 9a, which means that it will sport a pretty streamlined design. The Pixel 9a dropped the camera bar that the Pixel 8a had, and Google is expected to continue that design moving forward.
Funnily enough, this comes at a time when both Apple and Samsung are adopting larger rear camera islands with the iPhone 17 Pro and the Galaxy S26 Edge. If you want to remain on team Google, but also like the older design, then the Pixel 10 (non-a model) will be more your style.
A much brighter display
Google Pixel 9a already had a pretty impressive display, minus the bezels. | Image credit — PhoneArena
It’s not all bad news for the Pixel 10a, thankfully. Google’s newest budget phone will apparently boast an even brighter display, and the Pixel 9a already reached some pretty impressive highs.
The Pixel 9a advertised 1,800 nits of brightness, and could reach a very respectable 2,700 nits of peak brightness. If early reports coming in are accurate, then the Pixel 10a will advertise 2,000 nits of brightness, and may be able to produce 3,000 nits of peak brightness, just like the Pixel 10. In simpler words, the Google Pixel 10a will be plenty bright for any outdoor use.
Pixel 10a may miss out on new AI features
This year, Google heavily advertised its AI features for the Pixel 10 phones, to no one’s surprise. But here’s the downer, these new features — Magic Cue and Camera Coach, for example — probably aren’t coming to older Pixel phones because they need the Tensor G5’s processing power.So, if the Pixel 10a does end up using the Tensor G4, that means you’ll be excluded from all of the exciting new goodies that Google is cooking up. Of course, not all of you care about AI features, and the Pixel 10a might seem perfectly fine to you. But many consumers will be quite let down that their brand-new phone doesn’t even support Google’s heavily marketed AI features from the previous year.
Much slower storage access
Google Pixel 10 finally adopted UFS 4.0. | Image credit — X
Continuing the train of bad news, Google Pixel 9a will very likely come with UFS 3.1 storage. This, for most consumers, won’t be a big deal. If you were fine with how quickly your Google Pixel 9 or Pixel 9a loaded your apps and data, you’ll be fine with the Pixel 10a too.
However, it is worth mentioning that Google has finally moved on to UFS 4.0 storage for the Pixel 10 series, providing up to twice as fast data read speeds compared to the Pixel 9. But, much like the processor, the Pixel 10a is expected to still ship with UFS 3.1. So, if that bothers you, you should probably just skip the Pixel 10a.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!
Rediscover some of the most unique and memorable phones of the last two decades! “Iconic Phones” is a beautifully illustrated book that we’ve been working on for over a year – and it’s coming out in just a couple short month!
“Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is a must-have coffee table book for every phone lover out there. Covering the stories of more than 20 fan-favorite phones, it takes you on a memorable journey through the technological revolution that shaped our lives. Sign up now to secure an early discount price!
LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP FOR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS HERE
Google announced today that it is making its Chrome browser smarter. Similar to what Google said during last month’s Made by Google event about Gemini and the Pixel 10 series, it’s all about making your browser proactive instead of reactive. Google says, “It’s about creating a browser that goes beyond rendering the web, to one that understands it, helps you be more productive, and keeps you safer online.”
How Google is changing the experience you have with your browser
Google is turning Chrome into an AI-centric browser that looks for clues to what you are doing. Which tabs do you have open? What pages are you reading? Chrome will look for context from these cues to figure out what you’re doing now and what you want to do next. Google says that it is doing this in several new ways.
Let’s say that you’re a student researching a topic for a paper and you have dozens of tabs open. Instead of jumping back and forth between sources, your new AI browsing assistant, Gemini, does it for you by answering questions about articles, explaining references seen in YouTube videos, and helping you find pages on the internet you have read to show you exactly where you left off.
Starting on Windows and Mac and soon available for iOS and Android, Gemini in Chrome will be able to understand the context of what you’re attempting to do across multiple tabs. It will also answer your questions, and integrate with other Google services such as Google Docs and Google Calendar. You’ll be able to summarize articles and ask questions while on the move.
Google is working on having Chrome offer agentic capabilities that will allow the browser to handle complex tasks such as ordering groceries. Chrome will take on the tedious parts of the chore while the Chrome user makes only three clicks to get it done.
Google changes the Chrome address bar
The Chrome address bar, also called the omnibox, is getting smarter thanks to AI Mode. The latter can be used to ask complex questions with multiple parts. You can ask a question and follow it up with a related query. You’ll also see search suggestions appear that are “contextually relevant to the webpage you’re on.” Google gives an example of someone shopping for a mattress online, and the omnibox suggests that the prospective mattress buyer search for information about warranty policies.
Google says, “This makes getting information from the Chrome omnibox simpler than ever before, helping you navigate the web with the best of Google AI by your side.” Contextual suggestions will be available via Chrome right now in the U.S. AI mode in the omnibox will arrive in the U.S. later this month. The feature will start by handling your queries in English and will be available in more countries and languages in the upcoming weeks.
Besides helping you deal with everyday life a little easier, Google is using AI to fill in login credentials, preventing you from getting hit with security issues like compromised passwords and “spammy notifications.” According to Google, thanks to AI, Chrome users on Android receive 3 billion fewer scammy and spammy website notifications daily. Google will take action such as unsubscribing you from certain websites if it prevents you from receiving spam. If Google detects possible malware on an app installed your phone, it will alert you so that you can delete the app from your phone.
Even haters will love AI eventually
Not everyone loves AI, but when it can be added to a browser like Chrome, it might actually be useful. You have to like Google’s idea of using AI to allow your phone to understand the context of what is on your screen, figure out what it is you’re attempting to do, and take action to deliver the information you’ll need in advance. That’s exciting. And the angetic capabilities of AI will allow Chrome to do all of the heavy lifting while you sit back and have your phone and Chrome handle your weekly grocery shopping. Even the Jetsons never saw this coming.
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