# Weekly Summary: Key Google and Android Updates You Shouldn’t Miss
Welcome to **Android Central’s Weekly News**, your go-to source for staying informed about the most important Google and Android stories from the last week. From the early glimpse of Android 16 to Google’s judicial disputes and thrilling new hardware reveals, here’s everything noteworthy from this week.
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## **1. Android 16 Developer Preview: A Glimpse into Tomorrow**
Google has officially unveiled the **first developer preview of Android 16**, providing an early introduction to what’s set for 2025. The update, accessible for compatible Pixel devices, includes features such as **notification cooldown**, **audio sharing**, and an enhanced **desktop mode**. Interestingly, the Pixel 6 series—despite hitting its OS upgrade ceiling—has made it into the preview, igniting discussions about its possible inclusion in the final version.
Although the preview is thrilling, it’s still an early build and may have bugs. Developers and tech fans eager to explore should tread carefully. The stable iteration is anticipated to launch in **Q2 2025**.
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## **2. DOJ Suggests Google Divest Chrome Amid Monopoly Issues**
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has put forth significant measures aimed at diminishing Google’s purported monopoly in the search arena, including the **divestiture of its Chrome browser**. Google countered with a strongly phrased blog entry, labeling the proposal as “staggering” and cautioning against potential consumer harm. The corporation contends that such an action would destabilize its ecosystem and lead to a disjointed user experience.
The DOJ’s recommendation also covers the introduction of multiple selection screens for search engines on Pixel devices, a step that Google argues would complicate usability. The tech titan intends to offer its own counter-suggestions next month.
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## **3. OPPO Find X8 Series: A Flagship Challenger for 2025**
OPPO has made waves by unveiling its **Find X8 series**, powered by the **MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset**. The series features both the **Find X8** and **Find X8 Pro**, each flaunting premium specifications such as **50MP cameras**, **magnetic charging capability**, and **OLED screens**. The Pro variant raises the bar with a **periscope telephoto lens** that provides 6x optical zoom and a larger 5910mAh battery.
Armed with cutting-edge hardware and attractive pricing, the Find X8 series is set to rival flagship models including the iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S25.
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## **4. Speculations of a Pixel Laptop Emerge**
While whispers indicate that Google might scrap the **Pixel Tablet 2**, there’s mounting speculation regarding a possible **Pixel Laptop**. In contrast to prior Pixel-branded Chromebooks, this device could operate on an advanced version of **Android** rather than ChromeOS. This aligns with Google’s alleged efforts to unify Android and ChromeOS frameworks to accelerate development, especially for AI-based functionalities.
If confirmed, the Pixel Laptop could emerge as a direct rival to high-end tablets like the iPad, providing a unique combination of Android’s flexibility and laptop-level performance.
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## **5. Garmin Instinct 3 Leak: A Solar-Powered Resilient Smartwatch**
A Reddit leak has disclosed what seems to be the **Garmin Instinct 3**, showcasing a **solar-powered MIP display** and a rugged design. While specifics are limited, the smartwatch appears targeted towards outdoor enthusiasts with its robust construction and prolonged battery life. If the leak is true, the Instinct 3 could become a favored option for adventurers and fitness buffs.
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## **6. Other Notable Highlights**
Here are a few more noteworthy stories from the week:
– **Google Play Awards 2024**: The year’s finest apps and games have been announced.
– **Android Auto Beta**: A much-anticipated **radio station feature** is teased once again.
– **OnePlus 13**: Every color variant may go global for the first time.
– **Casio Smart Ring**: An innovative design hints at the next-gen smart rings.
– **Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra**: Dummy models reveal a revamped design for the 2025 flagship.
– **Motorola Android 15 Updates**: Additional devices are confirmed to receive the upgrade.
– **YouTube Music Recap 2024**: Some users are already enjoying an early preview.
– **Galaxy A26 Leak**: Samsung’s budget-friendly phone for 2025 makes an online appearance.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This week has been filled with thrilling advancements across the Google and Android landscape. From sneak peeks at Android 16 to bold hardware launches and legal hurdles, the tech realm is buzzing with activity. Stay tuned for further updates as these narratives develop, and remember to return next week for another summary of the latest news.
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