Google’s Android OS is an open source and gives developers a lot of freedom to customize the software as they please. Google apps and services mandate that device makers follow a specific set of rules under the Compatibility Definition Document (CDD). Device maker needs to follow the Compatibility Test Suite (CTS) for them to pre-load their devices with Google apps and services. Continue reading “Google to block GApps on uncertified devices, but lets custom ROM users be whitelisted”
Google app is receiving a new beta update features hinting at ‘pinned’ floating sports scores, custom Assistant Routines, and more. The new pinned floating features lets users pin summaries for sport and follow scores while using other apps like Maps or YouTube. Continue reading “Google app v7.24 beta hints at ‘pinned’ floating sports scores, custom Assistant Routines and more”
Google is finally rolling out the much-needed update to its File Go app. The update brings the ability to search for files on your phone just like you search the internet. The search will have Google’s expertise in the search including instant results, search history, autocomplete and filters. Continue reading “Google Files Go finally gets smart search, Google Photos integration”
With Google Assistant you can now send peer-to-peer payments or request payments from your contacts easily. Starting today, users in the U.S. will be able just to say commands like “send money to” both on Android or iPhone and Assistant will take you through the steps to send the money via Google Pay. Continue reading “Google Assistant now lets you send or request money”
According to a latest report citing industry sources, Google is said to be acquiring innovative camera startup Lytro for $40 million. Lytro as a company has started off as a ground-breaking camera company for consumers and move onto VR using its depth-data, light-field technology. Continue reading “Google said to be acquiring imaging startup Lytro for $40 million”
At the MWC 2018, Google had introduced the ARCore 1.0 with some changes and additions that also includes support for more devices. While Google opened up the ARCore to developers, there aren’t many apps or games yet. Today the company has announced a host of apps and games that you can try considering you have a compatible device Continue reading “Google announces range of augmented reality apps and games developed with ARCore 1.0”
With an aim to fight fake news, misinformation and bolstering journalism, Google today introduced its new initiative ‘ Google News Initiative,’ along with the International Fact Check Network which will offer advanced training on tools to distinguish misinformation online to more than 20,000 students globally. Continue reading “Google introduces ‘News Initiative’ to fight fake news, will invest $300 million”
Google has introduced new ‘Shopping Actions program’ as an answer to “where to buy” queries which grew over 85% in the past two years of which around 44% use voice-activated speaker at least weekly to purchase items like groceries and household items. Now the ‘Shopping Actions program’ is aimed at bringing users an easier way to get their shopping tasks done. Continue reading “Google’s new Shopping Actions program lets you purchase directly from search results”
Google today introduced ‘Google Play Instant’ that lets you play games without having to install them on your device. The company introduced Instant Apps back in 2016. You can just tap and try a game without having to download it first. Clash Royale, Words with Friends 2, and Bubble Witch 3 Saga, and other titles from Playtika, MZ, Jam City, and Hothead Games are first batch games that are available right away. Continue reading “Google Play Instant lets you tap and play games without installing them”
Google is now rolling out Chrome 66 beta for Android which brings some new and experimental features on the table like the ‘Modern Design’ interface, updated to the media player and a new Clipboard API. Continue reading “Google Chrome 66 beta for Android brings experimental ‘Modern Design UI,’ updated media player and more”
Update 2: As promised, Google has started rolling out the Lens feature through Google Photos for iOS devices as well. You just need to update the app to version 3.15.0 via the App Store. It is rolling out in batches from today and will reach everyone by next week.
Google today released 4th annual “Android security year in review,” and announced that its Play Protection technology has successfully taken down over 39 million from Play Store in 2017. Play protect was announced back in May 2017 at the I/O event. Continue reading “Google Play Protect took down over 39 million apps from Play Store in 2017”
A few days ago there were reports about Google renaming Android Wear to Wear OS and today Google has officially announced that it indeed is renaming it to ‘Wear OS by Google.’ However, the company is just renaming with no functional changes, but at least it is an indication that Google is paying attention to the wearable platform. Continue reading “Google officially rebrands Android Wear to Wear OS – List of watches getting updated to Wear OS”
Not so long ago, Google announced that location-based reminders feature is coming to Google Home. And, just like it promised, this feature is now finally rolling out to Google Home devices. Setting up reminders on Home device is easy, and all you got to do is just tell Assistant you want to be reminded of something when you are in a certain place. Continue reading “Google Home will now let you set location-based reminders”
Google with an aim to bring more real-world games like Pokemon Go, is opening up its Maps API for game developers to build their games. For an open-world game, developers first need to understand the physical environment around their players. Continue reading “Google opens up Maps API for game developers, Resonance Audio for AR and VR experiences”
