Posts Tagged: Google’s

It’s Getting Easier To Ditch Passwords And Switch To Google’s Passkeys

Soon, you won’t need to type a password to access your virtual accounts.
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Leaked Renders Point To Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Going Smaller

The Pixel 9 series is expected to launch in October and it’s only the beginning of the year, but we’ve already been blessed with a first look at what the Google Pixel 9 Pro is going to look like.
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Google’s latest Pixel phone update adds new AI tools and a working thermometer

Google’s rolling out its first update of 2024 for Pixel phones and it brings new health features and AI tools. Perhaps the most interesting new doodad is an actual working thermometer, which is only available for the recently-released Pixel 8 Pro. We knew this feature would come at some point, as the phone includes a temperature sensor and, well, a thermometer’s the most likely use case.

All you have to do is scan your forehead to see if your headache is just from staring at a screen too long if you have an actual fever. You can beam these results to your Fitbit profile and integrate them with other health metrics.

The company’s also giving that Tensor G3 chip a workout with the addition of a new AI-powered circle to search tool. It works exactly as advertised. You draw a circle over something on your phone’s screen, and the AI will search for the image, text or whatever else you highlighted. This will likely come in very handy in future episodes of spy and detective shows.

That’s just the first AI-adjacent feature included with the new update. There’s something called Photomoji that works exactly as you assume. It turns your favorite photos into emojis or reactions. Magic Compose is like the Magic Editor tool, but for text. Google says the tool “crafts stylized, suggested responses with the context of your messages.”

Finally, there’s the recently-teased Quick Share icon that shows you a list of devices nearby you can share content with. Google’s actually working to also get this feature included with Windows PCs.

Two mint-colored Pixel 8 phones.
Google

To accompany this new update, Google’s releasing a mint green colorway for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. They look really cute and I sort of want to eat them. The new feature drop starts rolling out today. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/googles-latest-pixel-phone-update-adds-new-ai-tools-and-a-working-thermometer-140006522.html?src=rss
Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

The Pixel Tablet is still Google’s biggest mistake of 2023

Earlier this year, I reviewed the Google Pixel Tablet and said it was the worst Pixel I’d ever used. Does that still hold true in December 2023?
Digital Trends

Google’s dedicated Podcasts app is shutting down in April 2024

Next in the long, long line of apps to be shuttered by Google is its dedicated Podcasts app which will cease to function in April 2024, as announced back in September. This means that Podcast app users will need to find a new home from which to access their favorite pods with Google naturally hoping […]

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The latest Pixel Feature Drop brings Google’s new Gemini AI model to the Pixel 8 Pro

The December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop introduces Google’s Gemini AI for Pixel 8 Pro, enabling offline features like Summarize in Recorder and Smart Reply in Gboard. It also enhances camera functions and productivity tools.

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The Morning After: Google’s geothermal power plant in the desert and more

Sorry to interrupt your Saturday, but did you somehow miss that Google made a geothermal energy plant in the middle of Nevada? You know, that place with all the water for turbines? Or the incredibly dumb way security researchers were able to pull private information from ChatGPT? This week's YouTube-coated version of TMA covers that and getting far too enthusiastic (or entirely non-plussed) about all these other things from this week in tech.

This week:

Read this:

Not everything on Engadget benefits from heavy paraphrasing and a guy talking at a camera for under 10 minutes. This week, take a look at this great profile of the growth, growth and further growth of ChatGPT, OpenAI's chatbot. It reframed generative AI for the wider public, and had the biggest tech companies scrambling to catch up. And that was just its first year.

Like email more than video? Subscribe right here for daily reports, direct to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-morning-after-googles-geothermal-power-plant-in-the-desert-and-more-140010085.html?src=rss
Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

How to save your data from Google’s purge of inactive accounts

Google is about to begin deleting inactive Google accounts, meaning you could lose valuable data. Here’s what you need to do to keep your account.
Digital Trends

Google’s updated Titan security key can store up to 250 passkeys

Google has been trying to make it easier for people to secure their accounts for years now. The company is one of several that are pushing a transition to passkeys from passwords, and they have also sold physical keys for unlocking accounts that support FIDO standards. Today, Google has updated its lineup of Titan security keys with some features that’ll make them work better with passkeys as well as passwords.

As before, Google is offering two Titan keys, one with USB-C and another with USB-A. Both keys still support NFC so they can be used to unlock accounts on compatible smartphones as well as through the physical port. The new key supports FIDO2 specifications for password-free sign-ins and can store up to 250 passkeys. 

Google is using this as an opportunity to push people towards using passkeys to protect their Google account — as part of the set-up process, you’ll be encouraged to create a passkey and store it on the Titan key rather than continue using your password. At that point, you’ll also set up a PIN that can be used in conjunction with the security key to unlock your Google account. But the Titan key can work with any supported account, not just Google. And, of course, you can use it as a two-factor authentication device alongside traditional passwords, as well.

These new Titan keys are on sale today on the Google Store and cost the same as the ones they’re replacing. The USB-A model is $ 30, while the USB-C key costs $ 35. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/googles-updated-titan-security-key-can-store-up-to-250-passkeys-180035899.html?src=rss

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are official with upgraded cameras, AI at the center, and 30W charging*

Google’s latest set of smartphones are upon us with all sorts of additional goodies, upgraded features, and the promise of seven year’s worth of software support. The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro also boast a refined design, a new chip, and use more recycled materials in their construction. Priced from $ 699 and $ 999 respectively, the […]

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These 6 AI features on Google’s Pixel 8 series will improve your photos, videos, and life experience

The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are already up for pre-order from $ 699 and $ 999 respectively with the Tensor G3 chipset providing the grunt. There’s a lot going on under the hood in terms of software, thanks to Google leveraging its use of AI with its newest flagships, adding or improving a number of enhancements […]

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Google’s Pixel 8 trade-in deals are absolutely embarrassing

For all the love that the Pixel 8 series is receiving, the trade-in deals offered by Google for older Pixels have left loyal fans quite disappointed.
Digital Trends

Google’s new Chromebook Plus standard sets the bar for premium features and performance

We’ve been hearing rumors of Google’s Chromebook Plus platform and today we have all the details of the new category of Chromebooks which aims to offer reliable performance, unmatched security, and premium features at a starting price of $ 399. We’ve got the details for you after the break. Chromebook Plus is basically Googles way of […]

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Google’s Nest Aware subscription service gets a $20 price hike

Google Nest device owners will have to pay at least $ 20 more if they want access to their security cameras’ and doorbells’ more sophisticated features and lengthier footage history. As reported by 9to5Google, the tech giant has sent out notices to subscribers in the US, telling them that the standard Nest Aware subscription now costs $ 8 per month or $ 80 a year, up from $ 6 a month or $ 60 when paid in an annual basis. 

The company started offering whole-home Nest Aware subscription plans that cover all a user’s devices back in 2019. Before that, they’ve had to add a subscription for each of their cameras. The plan gives users access to intelligent motion detection, which can differentiate between several types of activities, dog barking alerts and person speaking alerts. It also gives them access to 30 days of video history with recorded events. Without a subscription, users can only access up to three hours of recording saved on their device. 

The subscription service has a higher tier called Nest Aware Plus, which now costs $ 15 per month or $ 150 a year. That’s up $ 3 a month from $ 12 and up $ 30 a year from $ 120. In addition to all the features offered by the basic plan, the Plus tier also includes access to 10 days of continuous video history and 60 days of video history with recoded events. 

In a page explaining the price hikes, Google said “subscription prices can change to keep up with market shifts, which can include inflation and local tax updates.” The new prices already apply to new subscribers, while old members can expect to pay more on the next bill they receive on or after November 6. Google also reportedly said in its letter that it will notify members outside the US 30 days ahead of any price increase, which means that the price hike could make its way to other territories.  

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/googles-nest-aware-subscription-service-gets-a-20-price-hike-130018980.html?src=rss
Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s Pixel 8 series will launch on October 4th

If you were wondering when Google would take the wraps off its Pixel 8 series of smartphoens you’ll be happy to learn that a launch date has been announced. Thanks to Google sending launch invites out we now know that October 4th is when MadeByGoogle will unveil its new Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, and […]

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Google’s future Pixel phones just got hit with bad news

The Tensor chips in recent Pixel phones have been problematic, to say the least. And it looks like that won’t be changing for a while.
Digital Trends

Google’s 2nd-Gen Pixel Watch could get a big chip upgrade

Alongside the Pixel 8 series we can expect Google to launch a successor to last year’s Pixel Watch which ran on an Exynos processor and was the first non-Samsung smartwatch to run Wear OS 3. The development of the Pixel Watch 2 came as something of a surprise with reports suggesting that it may launch […]

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Google’s Password Manager in Chrome will now let you import passwords

Keeping track of your passwords and log-in details for the slew of websites you visit can be daunting, especially if you follow the sound advice of using a different password for each account. Google’s Password Manager is already a great option (and free) for keeping your passwords secure on the Chrome browser, and now its […]

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Google’s Pixel 7 falls to $499 and also offers a $100 Amazon gift card

Google’s Pixel 7 is still one of the best value smartphones available and now you can grab one at the lowest prices we’ve ever seen. Amazon is selling the 128GB Pixel 7 at $ 200 off for just $ 499, and throwing in a $ 100 Amazon gift card, effectively bringing the price down to $ 399. It’s also selling the 256GB Pixel 7 Pro at an all-time low of $ 699, for a savings of $ 200 (22 percent) over the regular price. It’s all part of a huge Amazon sale on Google Pixel 7 devices, offering discounts on nearly every model, colorway and memory configuration. 

The Pixel 7 offers a lot of refinements over the previous model, making it Google’s most polished smartphone to date. It uses the company’s own Tensor G2 chip, and while it’s not quite as fast as Qualcomm’s latest processors, it unlocks some nice AI camera tricks like Super Res Zoom, Photo Unblur and Cinematic Blur features. The 6.3-inch, 90Hz display offers smooth performance, while being small enough to do most things one-handed. It comes with a 50-megapixel main and 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, both among the best in the industry. 

The Pixel 7 Pro, meanwhile, offers 5X telephoto and ultra-wide-angle lens that has a solid macro function. Meanwhile, the 6.7-inch 120Hz display allows for smooth gaming performance. You can also expect modern features like wireless charging, strong water resistance and an improved design.

Best of all for many buyers, both devices offer Google’s bloatware-free Android experience with first crack at updates and exclusive features like Clear Calling and a free VPN. The only downside is a slightly laggy fingerprint reader and temperatures that can get a bit warm under load. 

Those aren’t the only two models with nice discounts, either. Amazon has slashed prices on nearly every Pixel 7 model as part of a larger sale, including different colors and memory configurations, with and without Amazon gift cards. So if you’ve been waiting for a deal, now is the time to act. 

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/googles-pixel-7-falls-to-499-and-also-offers-a-100-amazon-gift-card-080220568.html?src=rss
Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Leaked Amazon listing reveals even more about Google’s Pixel Tablet

Tomorrow is Google I/O day but if you are wanting more details on the Pixel Tablet ahead of its launch then there’s no need to wait. Thanks to a premature Amazon listing in Japan, we know a few more things about the Pixel Tablet. Join us after the break for more. As reported by the […]

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Google’s Pixel Tablet will reportedly come in four colors with the Charging Speaker Dock in the box

First teased in 2022, the long-awaited Pixel Tablet is finally getting close to its official launch which may be as soon as May 11th or sometime during June, according to the latest report. What is certain, or as certain as we can be when it comes to leaked information, is that we can expect the […]

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Google’s Nearby Share Beta for Windows makes it easier to transfer files between your phone and PC

Anyone using an Android smartphone knows how painful it is to transfer files and images from a handset to a Windows PC, often resorting to uploading the content to the cloud or even emailing it to oneself. While several smartphone brands have developed their own solutions, Google has just launched its new Nearby Share Beta […]

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Google’s experimental ChatGPT rivals include a search bot and a tool called ‘Apprentice Bard’

Google employees have been testing several potential ChatGPT competitors as part of the tech giant's bid to launch a response to OpenAI's technology, according to CNBC. A previous New York Times report said that Google CEO Sundar Pichai declared "code red" and accelerated AI development to be able to unveil at least 20 AI-powered products this year. Now, CNBC has detailed several of the products the company is working on, including a chatbot called "Apprentice Bard" that uses Google's LaMDA conversation technology.

Apparently, Google management asked the LaMDA team to prioritize working on a ChatGPT competitor, telling them that it takes precedence over any other project and even warning them not to attend unrelated meetings. Apprentice Bard reportedly looks and functions like ChatGPT in that a user can type a question or a prompt in a text box and then get a written response. 

CNBC says it saw samples proving the bot's answers include information from recent events — something ChatGPT isn't capable of, because it only has limited knowledge about anything that happened after 2021. In one example, Apprentice Bard was able to answer whether there will be another round of layoffs at Google. (Unlikely for this year, it said, seeing as the company is doing well financially.) If you'll recall, Google's LaMDA tech had gotten a former company engineer fired after he claimed that it had gained sentience.

Google is also reportedly testing a new search page that uses a question and answer format. The experimental home page features five potential question prompts replacing "I'm feeling lucky" under the search bar. After a user types in their query, the page generates human-like responses in gray bubbles. Underneath those responses are suggested follow-up questions, followed by the typical search results with links and headlines. In addition, Alphabet is working on a project called "Atlas" under its cloud unit. While CNBC didn't have details on what it is, it's still reportedly part of Google's "code red" efforts.

It's unclear at this point which of Google's projects are going to be released to the public. Google AI chief Jeff Dean told employees during an all-hands meeting to discuss the company's response to ChatGPT that it's moving "more conservatively than a small startup." Providing people wrong information will have a much bigger impact for a known company like Google, after all. Indeed, The Times previously said that the tech giant is prioritizing safety, accuracy and blocking out misinformation when it comes to the development of its search chatbot. If reports that Microsoft is incorporating ChatGPT's technology into Bing as soon as this March are true, however, we'll also likely see Google's search chatbot in the near future. 

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s AirTag copycat could be incredible — and that scares me

Google is reportedly working on an Apple AirTag tracker rival, but can the company overcome pervasive privacy and stalking concerns?
Digital Trends

Pixel 7 owners can try Google’s new Clear Calling feature in beta

One of the Pixel 7 family’s signature software features is available to try if you’re willing to live on the bleeding edge. Android Policereports Google has shared a third beta for Android 13’s first Quarterly Platform Release (QPR1) that adds Clear Calling for the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Enable it in the sound settings and AI will eliminate background noise on the other end of cellular calls while boosting voices. You might not have to ask someone to repeat themselves when traffic sounds drown them out.

Google notes that Clear Calling availability depends on your cellular and WiFi connections, and that the company doesn’t collect any call content. The beta also adds a toggle for voice calls over 5G and a few cosmetic interface tweaks.

You’ll have to wait considerably longer if you’d rather not beta-test a patch. The completed QPR1 release isn’t expected until December. You’ll have something to look forward to then whether or not you’re a tester, though. 9to5Googlenoticed that the Pixel 7’s free lifetime Google One VPN will be available that same month, so you’ll have an easy way to secure your mobile internet access.

There’s no mention of if or when Clear Calling will come to non-Google devices. Google sometimes makes Pixel-first features available elsewhere after a delay, but others tend to remain exclusive. You may have to sit on the sidelines if you use a third-party Android device.

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s Pixel Watch is finally here and ready to pre-order from $349

A lot of words have been written about the Pixel Watch over the years, most of which concerned rumors and the subsequent non-appearance of Google’s own smartwatch during launch events. Finally, in the year 2022, Google has finally launched the Pixel Watch which is powered by a four-year old chipset and features a somewhat dated […]

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Engadget Podcast: The Pixel 7 and Google’s new family of devices

This week, Cherlynn, Devindra and Engadget’s Sam Rutherford dive into everything we learned at Google’s Pixel 7 event. Sure, it’s nice to have new phones, but it’s even nicer to see Google developing a cohesive design for all of its new devices. The Pixel Watch actually looks cool! And while we were ready to knock the (way too late) Pixel Tablet, its speaker base seems genuinely useful. Google may have finally figured out how to combine its software and AI smarts with well-designed hardware.

Listen above, or subscribe on your podcast app of choice. If you've got suggestions or topics you'd like covered on the show, be sure to email us or drop a note in the comments! And be sure to check out our other podcasts, the Morning After and Engadget News!

Subscribe!

Topics

  • Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro first thoughts – 12:04

  • Pixel Watch – 18:00

  • Also announced, Google Nest updates – 37:11

  • Intel Arc A750 and A770 graphics cards review – 42:27

  • Elon Musk announces intent to buy Twitter (again) – 44:56

  • Tesla showed off its robot (sort of) – 46:32

  • Gatorade made a smart water bottle – 47:40 

  • iPhone 14 Plus review – 49:42

  • Pop culture picks – 52:41

Livestream

Credits
Hosts: Cherlynn Low and Devindra Hardawar
Guest: Sam Rutherford
Producer: Ben Ellman
Music: Dale North and Terrence O'Brien
Livestream producers: Julio Barrientos
Graphic artists: Luke Brooks and Brian Oh

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Check out these pre-order deals for Google’s new Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel Watch

The Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and Pixel Watch are finally official which means you may well be on the hunt for a pre-order deal that suits your pocket. Whether its a gift card, a discount, or how much you can get by trading in your current device, join us after the break for deals from […]

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How to watch Google’s Pixel 7 and Pixel Watch event on October 6

Google is ushering in the fall tech season this year with an event to show off the Pixel 7 lineup and the new Pixel Watch. Here’s how to tune in.
Android | Digital Trends

Google’s Pixel 6a is cheaper than ever right now

The Pixel 7 is being unveiled this week, but if you're looking for a new but more budget focused phone, Amazon has an excellent deal on the Pixel 6a. You pick one up at just $ 349 for a savings of $ 100 (22 percent off) — $ 21 cheaper than the lowest price to date. That's a significant savings on a smartphone that only came out a couple of months ago

Buy Pixel 6a at Amazon – $ 349

If you're in the market for a mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 6a is a top pick. It offers the same Tensor chip as the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, while giving you the purest Android experience possible. At the same time, you get excellent camera quality for the price, thanks to the two 12-megapixel rear cameras and 8-MP front sensor delivering bright, colorful pictures and video. It also comes with a distinctive design, sharp 6.1-inch OLED screen covered with Gorilla Glass 3, long-lasting battery, IP67 water/dust protection and more.

You don't get everything available in the flagships, of course. The 60Hz refresh rate isn't as smooth as the higher-end Pixels or Samsung's A53. Storage is limited to 128GB, there's no wireless charging and Google dropped the headphone jack we loved on the Pixel 5a — so you'll need a dongle for wired audio. Still, at this new low price, there aren't many other phones that can match it.

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Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

What to expect from Google’s October 6 event: Pixel 7, Pixel Watch, and more

Google is holding a big fall event next week, and it’s expected to be bigger than usual, with the next-generation Pixel 7 lineup and Google’s first Pixel Watch.
Android | Digital Trends

Google’s Nest WiFi Pro will feature WiFi 6E support and start from $199 according to a retailer’s premature listing

Besides announcing the Pixel 7 series and the Pixel Watch during a MadeByGoogle launch event on October 6, the search giant will also take the wraps off a new smart home device we now know is called the Nest WiFi Pro. According to a premature listing on B&H Photo, the Nest WiFi Pro will retail […]

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Google’s Pixel 7 series, Pixel Watch, and a bunch of new Nest Devices will be announced on October 6th

We’ve known for a while that the new Pixel 7 and 7 Pro would be announced sometime during the fall thanks to Google teasing the new handsets during I/O earlier this year. And while it made sense that the long-awaited-but-possibly-underpowered Pixel Watch would also make its debut at the same time, we now know for […]

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Google’s Nearby Share just copied one of Apple’s best features

Google unloaded a whole bag of new features for its ecosystem of devices, including new accessibility tools and a long-awaited Nearby Share upgrade.
Android | Digital Trends

Google’s foldable Pixel phone just got a big release date update

If you’ve been eagerly hoping for a foldable version of Google’s popular Pixel smartphone, your wait may soon be over.
Android | Digital Trends

Google’s Pixel Watch with LTE will reportedly cost $400

If, for whatever reason, Samsung’s new Galaxy Watch 5 series doesn’t tick your Wear OS boxes and you are waiting for Google’s long-awaited Pixel Watch, we have some news regarding the cellular variant. According to a new report, the LTE variant of the Pixel Watch will cost $ 399 in the US, which would appear to […]

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Google’s Tensor 3 chip for Pixel 8 may have this in common with the Pixel 6

Google’s continuing to collaborate with Samsung for Tensor for the Pixel 8, according to a new report.
Android | Digital Trends

What is Google’s Pixel Pass and how much does it cost?

Here’s everything you need to know about Google’s latest subscription service bundle to help you save money on the latest Pixel phones.
Android | Digital Trends

Google’s Pixel 6 Pro is $200 off in early Prime Day deal

Amazon Prime Day is tomorrow, but we're already seeing outstanding deals on a couple of desirable smartphones. Google's Pixel 6 Pro is on sale starting at $ 699 for the 128GB model and $ 799 for the 256GB version, or $ 200 off those models. On top of that, you can grab a Pixel 6 starting at $ 499 ($ 100) off, or just $ 50 more than the upcoming Pixel 6a

Buy Pixel 6 Pro 128GB at Amazon – $ 699Buy Pixel 6 Pro 256GB at Amazon – $ 799

The Pixel 7 is set to arrive in the fall, but the discounts make the Pixel 6 a great value if you need a smartphone right now. First off, the Pixel 6 Pro earned a 91 Engadget score, one of the highest for an Android phone of late. It comes with a unique two-toned design with a horizontal camera bar, along with a 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED display. It runs on Google's Tensor Processing Unit that provides excellent performance, and at the same time, it delivers over 17 hours of battery use.

The Pixel lineup is best known for its strong cameras, though. The Pixel 6 Pro is the most advanced yet, with a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel (MP) wide-angle lens and a 48MP telephoto shooter with a 4X optical zoom, along with an 11MP, 4K front camera. Those offer excellent video and photo capabilities on part with the iPhone 13 Pro, while bringing handy computational photography features like Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, Long Exposure and more.

Buy Pixel 6 128GB at Amazon – $ 499Buy Pixel 6 256GB at Amazon – $ 600

The Pixel 6 has a smaller 6.4-inch, 1080p 90Hz OLED screen that may suit you better if you don't like big phones. Its camera array is similar to the Pixel 6 Pro, but it lacks the 48MP telephoto lens and has an 8-megapixel 1080p selfie camera. Otherwise, it offers similar performance and can go even longer (20 hours) on a charge. 

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Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s Nest Audio smart speaker is down to $60 right now

Even Google devices are getting discounted ahead of Amazon Prime Day. Wellbots currently has a few Nest gadgets at some of the best prices we've seen. The Nest Audio smart speaker is $ 40 off and down to $ 60 with the code EGDT40 at checkout, while the Nest Hub and Nest Hub Max are on sale for $ 60 (using the same code) and $ 169 (with the code EGDT60), respectively.

Buy Nest Audio at Wellbots – $ 60Buy Nest Hub at Wellbots – $ 60Buy Nest Hub Max at Wellbots – $ 169

Even though the Nest Audio came out in 2020, we still consider it to be one of the best smart speakers you can get. And if you already live in the Google ecosystem, it's a no-brainer. The speaker has an unassuming yet attractive design, plus great audio quality that's made even better if you pair two of them together and use them in stereo mode. There are better speakers out there if you're mostly concerned with audio quality, but the Nest Audio excels at being a solid music-machine that also houses the Google Assistant. You can use voice commands to add events to your calendar, check the forecast, control smart home gadgets, play specific music and more.

Either of the Nest Hubs on sale are better if you like the idea of having a display to show you all of the information you ask the Assistant to gather for you. The standard Nest Hub is basically a Nest Audio but with an added touchscreen, plus it has sleep-tracking capabilities if you place it next to your bed. We also appreciate that the second-gen version has clearer, louder audio and even speedier Google Assistant performance. As for the Nest Hub Max, it's the one to get if you want the best audio quality possible, plus as big of a screen as you can get on any Nest smart device.

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Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Pixel 7: Everything we know about Google’s 2022 flagship

Google is preparing the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro for launch later this year. Here’s everything we know so far.
Android | Digital Trends

Google’s Pixel Watch is real and it’s coming soon

After years of being nothing more than a rumor, the Pixel Watch has been made real at Google I/O 2022. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
Mobile | Digital Trends

Google’s ‘raters’ are pushing for $15 an hour

Part-time employees at RaterLabs — an AI vendor whose only known client is Google — are campaigning to qualify for the $ 15 hourly minimum wage the tech giant promised to its "extended workforce" back in 2019.

Yahoo Financereported that the quality raters whose sole job is evaluating Google’s search and ad results for accuracy don’t qualify for sick leave, PTO or other benefits the company provides for its TVCs (temporary workers, vendors and independent contractors). Google increased base pay following critical reporting of its treatment of TVCs in 2018 — the same year it was revealed the majority of Google's workforce was not directly employed by the company.

A number of RatersLabs employees believe the work they do is vital enough to Google that they should receive the higher pay and benefits of their peers. Christopher Colley, who has worked for the Google vendor since 2017, told Yahoo Finance that he only earns $ 10 an hour, and hasn’t qualified for a raise over the five years he’s worked at RaterLabs. Colley is also part of the Alphabet Workers Union (AWU-CWA), a subgroup of the Communications Workers of America focused on organizing full-time and part-time workers of Alphabet.

“The raters work from home, use their own devices, can work for multiple companies at a time, and do not have access to Google’s systems and/or badges,” a Google spokesperson told Engadget. “As noted on the policy page, the wages and benefits policy applies to Alphabet’s provisioned extended workforce (individuals with systems and/or badge access to Google)."

Among the hurdles workers need to jump in order to qualify for the pay bump afforded to some TVCs is a minimum 30-hour workweek. As AWU-CWA was quick to point out, RaterLabs contractors are capped at only 26 hours.

Employee accounts on RatersLabs’ Indeed profile describe low morale, low pay and an unclear feedback process. “Reviews are monthly, with one bad review potentially costing you the job […] Guidelines can change the week before the review and you can be 'graded' based on them despite doing the work way before," wrote a former RatersLab employee in January 2022. "The job is very flexible, pay is mediocre, and you have no chance for advancement.”

This isn’t the first time that Google’s army of raters have spoken out about low pay, no opportunities for advancement and subpar working conditions. In fact, RatersLabs was formed by the CEO of Leapforce, a company that also hired raters for Google search and ad products. Back in 2017, Leapforce raters spoke out about chaotic working conditions, resulting in at least three contractors being fired, two of whom claimed their separations from the company were acts of retaliation. As Ars Technicanotes, a number of Leapforce workers filed complaints with the National Labor Relations Board which were eventually resolved via settlement. Appen — which acquired Leapforce in May of 2017 — is also the parent company of RatersLabs.

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s latest Pixel 6 and 6 Pro update fixes weak haptic feedback for notifications

Google’s recent Pixel software updates haven’t always landed flawlessly. At the end of last year, for instance, the company was forced to pause the release of an OTA after reports that the software caused the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro to drop calls. More recently, the March update introduced an issue that left the company’s latest phones producing much weaker notifications when you got a notification. Many Pixel 6 and 6 Pro owners complained after Google released the update, noting that no matter what they set their phone’s haptic feedback to, they would miss calls and emails because they couldn’t feel their device vibrating.

On Monday, Google began rolling out the May Pixel software update. It includes a fix for the vibration issue. “Improvements for haptic feedback under certain conditions and uses cases,” the company writes on its community website. The update resolves two other issues that affect all recent Pixels devices. The first involves a bug that had caused those phones to wake their displays without any input. The second solves a problem that could crash the Pixel launcher after you restarted your device. The update also includes the latest Android security patch from Google.

According to Google, it will roll out the May 2022 update to all eligible Pixel devices in the coming weeks. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can attempt to install the software on your phone by manually sideloading it. Just note that flashing a device always comes with a degree of risk.

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s Pixel Watch looks really round in the latest leaked images, could cost up to $400

Google’s Pixel Watch is finally a thing, and thanks to the unit that was casually left behind in a restaurant we now know that it’s also really round. First, there were images posted on Reddit of the Pixel Watch casing, and now there are pictures of the smartwatch with its strap attached and a separate […]

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Brave’s browser can automatically bypass Google’s AMP pages

Brave is putting Google's Accelerate Mobile Pages (AMP) on blast with a new feature called De-AMP, The Verge reported. It's designed to bypass any pages rendered with AMP and take users directly to the original website. "Where possible, De-AMP will rewrite links and URLs to prevent users from visiting AMP pages altogether,” the company wrote in a blog post.

If that's not possible, then "Brave will watch as pages are being fetched and redirect users away from AMP pages before the page is even rendered, preventing AMP/Google code from being loaded and executed," it added. 

The new feature was implemented in the name of privacy, security and internet experience, according to Brave. "In practice, AMP is harmful to users and to the Web at large," the article states. "Just as bad, AMP helps Google further monopolize and control the direction of the web." It adds that the next iteration of AMP "will be even worse." 

Google originally promoted AMP as a way to improve the mobile web experience by loading pages faster. However, it has recently been a target of critics who see it as a way for Google to increase its hegemony in the internet ad market by hosting content on its own servers. A group of publishers recently announced it was moving away from AMP, and a lawsuit filed by several US states accuses Google of running a monopoly that harmed ad-industry competitors and publishers.

Brave promises "the best privacy online" with its browser, so of course attacking Google is part of its business strategy. Despite its efforts, though, it lags well behind most other browsers in mobile market share, sitting in the "other" category behind Internet Explorer on Statcounter. De-AMP is now available in beta and "will be enabled by default in the upcoming 1.38 Desktop and Android versions, and will be released on iOS soon after," Brave said.

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s newest app makes it easier to switch to Android

Google is finally making its Switch to Android app available in the App Store after a soft launch.
Mobile | Digital Trends

Google’s ‘Switch to Android’ app helps iOS users do just that

Google has finally countered Apple's "Move to iOS" app by releasing "Switch to Android" for iOS on the App Store, confirming earlier rumors. As the name indicates, it's designed to help iPhone and iPad users import contacts, photos, calendars and video to an Android device. It also shows users how to turn off iMessage in favor of Android messaging and transfer photos/videos by connecting to iCloud. 

Google dropped the new app without a lot of fanfare, as TechCrunch notes. On its Switch to Android website, the app is still not mentioned and can only be found on the App Store with a direct link — search results still turn up nothing.

Google's 'Switch to Android' app is finally available on iOS
Google

The app is a big improvement over the current system, which requires you to back up photos, video, calendar and contacts using the Google Drive iOS app. It was first spotted last summer by 9to5Google in code tucked into Google's Data Transfer Tool, and seen in a more recent release with the ability to import iCloud video and photos into Google Photos. 

Apple's equivalent app arrived way back in September 2015, so Google certainly took its time responding. "Move to iOS" works in much the same way, helping users import photos, video, messages, contacts and more over to an iOS device. One Android device maker, Samsung, has its own device migration app as well called Smart Switch, helping you switch from an iPhone or other Android device to a Galaxy smartphone. However, it's only available on Google Play or its own Galaxy store and doesn't run on iOS. 

Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics

Google’s Pixel 6a earns FCC approval weeks ahead of launch

Google’s upcoming Pixel 6a has just passed FCC certification, hinting at an impending launch.
Mobile | Digital Trends

Google’s partnership with iFixit means it’s going to be easier to fix your Pixel phone

Fixing your broken Pixel smartphone could get a whole lot easier from now on thanks to Google’s new partnership with iFixit which will pair up handset owners with official replacement parts for their handsets as well as iFixit-branded toolkits. Being able to access genuine parts for your broken Pixel handset will go a long way […]

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