# A Summary of the Most Noteworthy Google/Android-Related News from This Week
Welcome to **Android Central’s Weekly News**, your ultimate destination for updates on the key happenings in the Google and Android realm. This week has been filled with thrilling announcements, ranging from Samsung’s upcoming plans to enhancements in Google Maps, along with OpenAI’s latest initiatives, and much more. Let’s explore the major stories that influenced the tech scene this week.
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## Samsung’s Vision for 2025: Affordable Foldables and XR Glasses?
Samsung’s earnings report for Q3 2024 provided insight into the company’s aspirations for 2025, promising an exciting year ahead. The tech behemoth confirmed that the **Galaxy S25** will be launched in early 2025, likely in January, consistent with past release patterns. But that’s just the beginning—Samsung also teased a **more affordable foldable** device, which could revolutionize the foldable market by making it more attainable for a wider audience. This represents a notable change, as Samsung had previously rejected the notion of a budget-friendly foldable model.
Beyond smartphones, Samsung hinted at its goals in the **XR (Extended Reality) sector**, with intentions to incorporate its **Samsung Health** platform into upcoming XR devices. Is it possible we’ll see **Samsung Glasses** or the much-awaited **Galaxy Ring** soon? Only time will reveal, but 2025 is expected to be a remarkable year for Samsung.
[Discover more about Samsung’s 2025 vision here](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-confirms-galaxy-s25-teases-cheaper-foldable-xr-device-2025).
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## Google Maps to Feature Enhancements You’ll Appreciate
Google Maps is set to enhance its navigation capabilities. An upcoming update scheduled for this month will simplify identifying the correct lane to be in, featuring a **zoomed-in view** during navigation. This enhancement will initially roll out in 30 cities across the U.S., with plans for broader availability on other platforms, like **Android Auto** and **Carplay**.
But that’s not everything—Google’s **Gemini AI** is being incorporated into Maps, providing users with recommendations for activities and locations based on reviews and overviews. Additional updates consist of improved parking guidance, expanded user reporting, and more. These upgrades will be launched through November, making Google Maps an even more essential tool for travelers and commuters alike.
[Find out more about the Google Maps improvements here](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/game-changing-google-maps-enhanced-navigation-update-arrives-next-month).
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## ChatGPT Ventures into Google’s Domain
OpenAI is elevating its offerings with the launch of **ChatGPT Search**, enabling users to explore the web directly via the ChatGPT interface. This advancement positions OpenAI as a direct rival to Google Search, a market that Google has ruled for years. ChatGPT Search will sift through the web for relevant information and present it in a user-friendly format, complete with clickable references.
Initially, this feature will be offered to **ChatGPT Plus**, **Team users**, and those in the **SearchGPT waitlist**, with plans for a broader rollout to all users later on. This innovation could dramatically reshape our interaction with search engines by introducing a conversational approach to traditional web searches.
[Learn more about ChatGPT’s new search capability here](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/openai-chatgpt-search-feature-rollout).
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## OnePlus 13: A Strong Contender in the Smartphone Arena
The **OnePlus 13** has officially debuted in China, and it’s already capturing attention. The device features a **6.8-inch 2K OLED display** with a 120Hz refresh rate and a remarkable **4500 nit peak brightness**. The camera suite consists of three 50MP sensors, addressing ultrawide and telephoto requirements.
Fueled by **Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite** and with up to 24GB of RAM, the OnePlus 13 is prepared for the AI-driven age. It also incorporates a substantial **6,000mAh battery** with 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. While the phone is currently exclusive to China, a global launch is anticipated soon, and it appears to be a formidable player in the flagship market.
[Get additional information on the OnePlus 13 here](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/oneplus-13-goes-official-in-china).
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## Affordable Pixels: Google Unveils Certified Refurbished Program
Google has introduced its **Certified Refurbished** program, providing discounted Pixel phones that have undergone comprehensive inspection and refurbishment using **genuine Google parts**. The program features devices from the **Pixel 6** and newer, with discounts reaching up to 40%. These refurbished phones
