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Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Yahoo
What the Tech: Help finding a lost phone
We've all been there. That moment of dread when you can't find your phone. Did you lose it? Was it stolen? It's a feeling that can quickly turn into panic. 'Where is it? How do I get it back? Is it gone forever?' These questions race through your mind. But what if I told you a friend could help you locate your phone, even if you can't? It's a handy trick that most people don't know and could save you a lot of stress. It happens so easily. Maybe your phone slipped out of your pocket during dinner, got left behind at a meeting, or is buried deep in a friend's car. You've retraced your steps, called your number countless times, and still, no luck. What do you do now? Here's the good news: Apple and Google offer features that let someone else help you find your missing device. You might not realize it, but with a bit of help from a friend, you can pinpoint your phone's location in no time. For iPhone users, the key is having 'Find My' turned on. If it is, a friend can use the Find My app on their iPhone to assist you. Even if you haven't shared your location with them before, they can open the app, scroll to the bottom, and tap 'Help a Friend.' They'll then sign in with your Apple ID, and your phone's last known location will appear on their screen. From there, they can make your phone play a sound—even if it's on silent—or mark it as lost if you suspect it's been taken. Android users have a similar option. By visiting a friend can sign in with the Google account linked to your phone. A map will then show its location. Like iPhones, they can make your phone ring, even if it's on silent. They can also write a message that will appear on your phone's screen, asking whoever finds it to call a different number to arrange its return. Both systems rely on networks of connected devices, such as other phones and Bluetooth signals, to accurately pinpoint your phone's location. But here's a critical piece of information: these features only work if you've activated them in advance. On iPhones, you can find the 'Find My' setting under your name in the Settings app. For Android phones, check the Security settings. Taking a minute to set this up now can potentially save you hours of worry and frantic searching later. So, next time you can't find your phone, remember this simple tip. A friend can help you find your device, no matter where it is. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hans India
21-05-2025
- Hans India
Android 16 QPR1 Beta Released: Full List of Supported Pixels
Google began distributing the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update on Wednesday to Pixel devices powered by Tensor chips. The release applies the Material 3 Expressive redesign across system interfaces, including the lock screen and Quick Settings panel. The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 focuses on interface revisions rather than feature changes. Users will notice modified system elements and consistent design treatments throughout core screens. Eligible devices for the beta include Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold and 9a. To enroll, users must join the Android Beta Program by visiting and signing in with their Google account. Once enrolled, eligible devices will receive an over-the-air notification. Installation may occur within an hour but could take longer depending on network conditions. Participants are advised to back up device data before installing the beta. The stable version of Android 16 remains scheduled for a later release.
India Today
21-05-2025
- India Today
Android 16 with Material 3 Expressive design arrives, here is how you can install it on your phone
Google has started rolling out Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 to Pixel smartphones. The latest update brings with it a fresh wave of design changes under what it calls the Material 3 Expressive system. This update is the first QPR (Quarterly Platform Release) beta since the Android 16 developer previews began and is part of the September Feature Drop cycle. While these betas are generally stable enough for regular use, they're not the final version — so those who want a glitch-free experience may want to hold off. But if you enjoy early access and want a more personalised look on your phone, this one's worth a to download Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1If you're already part of Google's Android 16 Beta Program and using an eligible Pixel device, the update will arrive automatically via an OTA update. You don't need to do anything extra. Eligible devices include a wide range of Pixel models, including the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Tablet, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro, 9 Pro Fold and check or join the Beta Program, visit Enrol your Pixel device, and the update should appear soon after. Just make sure you've backed up your data in case something goes wrong, as this is still pre-release you'd rather wait for the final public version of Android 16, Google recommends opting out of the Beta Program before installing this update. If you opt out after installing Beta 1, your phone will get a 'downgrade' OTA, which will wipe your data and roll back the software to Android 15. The stable version of Android 16 is expected to arrive in the coming new in Material 3 ExpressiveadvertisementThe most visible change in this update is the new Material 3 Expressive design language. According to Google's blog post, it's all about personalisation and movement — giving your phone a more fluid, human-like feel. The company has gone beyond just colours and icons. For example, the way notifications slide away now triggers a soft ripple effect in the rest of the design also includes refreshed elements like the lockscreen, launcher, notification shade, and Quick Settings panel. There's better use of space, rounded shapes, and dynamic colours that adapt based on your wallpaper. You can even squeeze more toggles into Quick Settings, letting you access your most-used actions without extra has been improved too, with cleaner fonts and larger, more readable text. Visual transitions feel quicker and smoother, with light background blurs adding a sense of depth without becoming Updates is another new feature, placing real-time notifications — like food delivery or ride tracking — front and centre so they're easier to follow. Overall, Material 3 Expressive is a move towards making Android feel more personal, less mechanical, and better at surfacing what matters most to you.
Hindustan Times
21-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
How to install Android 16 Beta on Pixel phones and explore new Material 3 redesign
Google has started rolling out the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, introducing the new Material 3 Expressive redesign to several Pixel devices. This release brings a fresh look to the operating system's interface, including updates to the lock screen, Quick Settings, and other parts of the user experience. Although the full stable version of Android 16 is not yet available, this beta offers an early glimpse of the upcoming visual changes. The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 focuses mainly on design updates rather than feature additions. The Material 3 Expressive design brings a consistent new style across the entire system. Users can expect a changed lock screen, a redesigned Quick Settings panel, and a broader implementation of the new design language that Google has been working on for months. Also read: Google I/O 2025: AI Mode rolls out in Search, know how it will benefit users Currently, the beta supports Pixel devices equipped with the Tensor chip. The eligible devices include: Also read: Google I/O 2025: Gemini Live with camera now free for everyone, Veo 3 for AI Ultra and other reveals To install Android 16 QPR1 Beta on a compatible Pixel device, users need to join the Android Beta Program. This can be done by visiting and opting in with the Google account linked to the device. Once enrolled, the device will receive an update notification, usually within an hour, though it may sometimes take longer. After downloading and installing the update, users can explore the new design elements of Android 16 ahead of the official stable release. Also read: Oppo Reno 14 Pro confirmed to feature a 50MP ultra-wide lens, 6,200mAh battery, and more This beta release offers Pixel owners a chance to experience Google's latest redesign before it reaches the wider public. Users interested in testing the update should ensure their devices are eligible and back up any important data before proceeding.
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Time of India
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 starts rolling out: Material 3 Expressive redesign that Google calls 'its biggest updates in years'; eligible Pixel devices and more
Google has rolled out the first major beta update for Android 16, with the release of QPR1 Beta 1. Ahead of Android 16's stable release, Google is rolling out QPR1 Beta 1 to Pixel devices with the Material 3 Expressive redesign . To those unaware, it means Quarterly Platform Release Beta 1. QPRs deliver more significant changes compared to monthly bug fixes. Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 one introduces the big, OS-spanning redesign. As Google said, it includes revamped notifications shade, quick settings panel, lockscreen, and launcher. This build contains some of the Material 3 Expressive changes covered in Google's recent Android announcement. What is Material 3 Expressive redesign that comes with Android 16 Material 3, Google's latest design system, introduces an expressive redesign for Android, emphasizing personalization, dynamic adaptability, and enhanced user experience. Launched as part of Android 12 and refined in subsequent updates, it builds on Material Design principles with a focus on bold, vibrant aesthetics and improved accessibility. Key features include Dynamic Color, which adapts UI colors based on the user's wallpaper, creating a cohesive and personalized look. The system offers updated typography with customizable typefaces, improved legibility, and scalable text sizes. Enhanced component designs, such as buttons, cards, and navigation bars, feature smoother animations, rounded edges, and refined touch targets for better usability. Accessibility is prioritized with high-contrast themes and inclusive design options. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like These Are The Most Beautiful Women In The World Undo Should you download Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 Historically, QPRs are relatively stable and launch as betas rather than developer previews. Google officially says that they are 'suitable for general use,' with Android 16 QPR1 expected to launch in September. However, if you want to get the final stable public Android 16 release first, opt out from before installing QPR1 Beta 1. You will then get a downgrade OTA notification. Ignore this update as it will wipe your device/data and install Android 15. Keep doing so until Google announces Android 16 in the coming weeks. Who will get Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 Those on the Beta Program for Android 16 will get QPR1 Beta 1 without having to change anything. How to report bugs in Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 The Android Beta Feedback app is available on Pixel devices to submit problems. You can access it from the app drawer or via Quick Settings to file bugs in the Google issue tracker, while the Android Beta community is on Reddit. Which are the Pixel devices getting Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 (BP31.250502.008) with the May 2025 security patch is available for the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel 9a, as well as the Android Emulator. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
