Latest news with #FeatureDrop
Phone Arena
7 hours ago
- Phone Arena
Change to Pixel Launcher spotted after latest Android 16 QPR1 Beta release
The other day Google released Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 and while it included various fixes and new features, the latest beta release for the September Pixel Feature Drop also included a small design change to the Pixel Launcher which we will get to in a second, Before we do, we should tell you that this new look for the Pixel Launcher fits in with Google's comments about the September Pixel Feature Drop (aka Quarterly Platform Release 1 for Android 16 ). Google previously said that the future Feature Drop will add "much of the new visual polish associated with Material Expressive." Now this might not be what Pixel users want to see from a QPR update. Speaking for myself, I always prefer cool features even if they are taken from newer Pixel models. Google has a habit of announcing a new feature for the latest Pixel model hoping that those with an older Pixel will upgrade and buy the latest phone. But I've learned over time that if you keep your wallet closed, the coveted Pixel feature will eventually end up backported on your older phone. I can think of a few features I really wanted, such as Pixel 8's Magic Editor (my Pixel 6 Pro launched with the Magic Eraser only)Pixel 7's Photo Unblur, which cleaned up older photos making them look new and sharp, and Pixel 7 's Clear Calling, which cleans up background noise on phone calls. All of these, and more, are now on my Pixel 6 Pro . Other features backported to the Pixel 6 series include the accessibility feature called Guided Frame which uses voice to help a Pixel user with limited vision frame a selfie. Arrow points to smaller Google G icon in the Pixel launcher search bar in Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2. | Image credit-PhoneArena Also rolled out to the Pixel 6 line is the Battery Health indicator which delivers information about how much estimated capacity your battery has remaining. One major feature that many Pixel 6 series were hoping for but will never receive is Face Unlock. However, back in 2022 there was some hope that the Sony IMX663 image sensor used on the Pixel 6 Pro could be used to create a depth map which could be employed on a Face Unlock feature. Ultimately, Pixel 6 users never received a facial recognition feature and are limited to using their in-display fingerprint scanner (which works wonderfully in Android 16 QPR1 Beta2). The new feature that arrived for the the Pixel Launcher appears on the launcher's search bar at the top of the screen. The iconic "G" logo on the left of the bar is noticeably smaller especially when compared tot he two remaining icons in the field which includes the microphone icon you tap to access the assistant, and the Google Lens icon you press to open that feature. As changes go, no this is not a big one but it does prove that Google is always looking to make what it thinks are improvements to its software no matter how limited the results are.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Google confirms Android 16 release for June 10: List of supported smartphones, features and other things to know
Google has officially confirmed the public release of Android 16 on June 10. In a post on microblogging platform X (formerly Twitter), the company wrote 'It's almost time for the Android 16 final release! See you back here tomorrow.' While the exact time is not known yet, it is likely that the release of Android 16 is hours away from being available to the public. Android 16 may launch alongside the June 2025 Feature Drop, bringing a host of new features and enhancements, including for non-Pixel devices. Google's Pixel Watch lineup, which now follows a quarterly update cycle, is also expected to receive a fresh update packed with improvements and new functionality. Android 16 Eligible Pixel devices Google's Pixel lineup will be first in line to receive Android 16. The update will be available for the following models: by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Irish homeowners eligible for solar 'bonus' if they live in these eircodes Activ8 Learn More Undo Pixel 6 Pixel 6 Pro Pixel 6a Pixel 7 Pixel 7 Pro Pixel 7a Pixel 8 Pixel 8 Pro Pixel 8a Pixel Fold Pixel 9 Pixel 9 Pro Pixel 9 Pro XL Pixel 9 Pro Fold Pixel 9a Android 16 features Android 16 will bring Material 3 Expressive design which Google says it's "the most researched update to Google's design system, ever." The new language brings "springy animations" and fluid interactions throughout the interface, making everyday interactions feel more tactile and engaging. The redesign also introduces updated dynamic color themes that adapt to your wallpaper, bolder typography, and a greater sense of depth through subtle background blurring. Google's research suggests these visual changes aren't just fun, they make apps more appealing to younger users. The Android Show Recap! Personalisation, AI Everywhere & More! Beyond the visual refresh, Android 16 brings practical improvements to everyday features. The new Live Updates feature lets you easily track real-time progress notifications, like food delivery ETAs, rideshare status, and navigation directions, without hunting through notification clutter. Quick Settings has been redesigned to accommodate more toggles in the same space, making it easier to access frequently used controls like a Flashlight and Do Not Disturb. The Android 16 beta will be available on select devices in June, with the final release expected on Pixel devices later this year before rolling out to partner phones. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
