**A Summary of This Week’s Most Noteworthy Google/Android News**
Welcome to the latest installment of Android Central’s *News Weekly*, where we highlight the most crucial events in the Google and Android landscape. From thrilling leaks to significant product announcements, here’s everything you need to know about the recent developments in the Android world.
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### **Samsung Galaxy S25 Leaks Ramp Up Excitement**
As Samsung’s eagerly awaited *Unpacked* event approaches, leaks about the Galaxy S25 series have taken the spotlight. This week, renowned leaker Evan Blass revealed renders of the Galaxy S25 lineup, showcasing its expected color options, including black, white, grayish blue, and gray. Promotional materials also highlighted the elegant camera design and hinted at a new AI-enabled feature dubbed the “Now Bar,” which will be part of Samsung’s forthcoming OneUI 7.
In addition, the Galaxy S25 Slim, a sleeker version of the flagship, caught attention with its leaked images. The device is rumored to sport a flat display and a camera configuration akin to its siblings, featuring a 200MP main lens. With only days remaining until the official reveal, interest in the S25 series is peaking.
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### **Motorola Introduces Affordable Moto G Power 2025 and Moto G 2025**
Motorola launched the year with two budget-friendly smartphones: the Moto G Power 2025 and Moto G 2025. Priced at $299 and $199, these devices offer impressive capabilities in the budget category. The Moto G Power 2025 features a 50MP triple camera arrangement, a vegan leather back, and a solid 5,000mAh battery. It ships with Android 15 pre-installed, introducing functionalities like audio sharing and Smart Connect.
Conversely, the Moto G 2025 provides a slightly toned-down experience with a smaller screen, reduced RAM, and a 2MP macro camera. Both models, however, boast IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance, ensuring they are resilient choices for budget-minded consumers.
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### **Samsung Galaxy Ring Enhancements and Global Rollout**
This week saw significant updates for Samsung’s Galaxy Ring, the company’s cutting-edge smart wearable. The ring now accommodates additional sizes (14 and 15) and includes new features such as a mindfulness tracker integrated into the Samsung Health app. Upcoming updates will feature a sleep environment report and customized bedtime suggestions based on sleep behavior.
Moreover, Samsung revealed the Galaxy Ring will be available in 16 new nations, including Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa. The wearable is scheduled to debut alongside the Galaxy S25 series on January 22, 2025.
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### **Honor Magic 7 Pro: A Resilient Flagship Comes to Europe**
Honor officially introduced the Magic 7 Pro in Europe this week, launching its premium flagship to a new market. The device boasts a 6.8-inch display, a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and an adaptable camera system, featuring a 200MP periscope telephoto lens. Honor also showcased the phone’s ruggedness by putting it through rigorous tests, including being driven over by an ATV.
With a price tag of £1,099.99 in the U.K. and €1,299.99 in Europe, the Magic 7 Pro blends state-of-the-art technology with tough durability.
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### **OnePlus 13 and 13R Receive Initial Updates**
The newly launched OnePlus 13 and 13R were updated for the first time this week. The updates include December 2024 security patches, enhancements to the camera, and AI improvements. Notably, the OnePlus 13 now supports Google’s Gemini Nano AI, which enables features like Magic Compose in the Messages application.
Additionally, the Touch-to-Share functionality received an update to accommodate iOS devices, making cross-platform file sharing more convenient. The updates are being deployed in phases, so users should anticipate them arriving shortly.
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### **Additional Significant Updates**
Here are some more highlights from the Android sphere this week:
– **Android 15** is now accessible on the Nothing Phone (1) and CMF Phone 1.
– **Google Chrome** is experimenting with AI-enhanced, less intrusive permission alerts.
– **Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy** specifications have leaked, suggesting a potent chipset for the Galaxy S25.
– **Samsung Care Plus** currently provides unlimited free screen repairs for Theft & Loss subscribers.
– **ChatGPT** has entered beta testing for its new “Scheduled Tasks” feature, presenting a challenge to Google’s AI efforts.
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### **Looking Forward**
With Samsung’s *Unpacked* event just on the horizon, the Android community is abuzz with anticipation. From flagship unveilings to groundbreaking wearables, 2025 promises to be an exhilarating year for technology fans. Be sure to check back next week for more updates in our *News Weekly*.
