# This Week in Google and Android: Key Updates and Highlights
Welcome to **Android Central’s News Weekly**, your go-to source for the most significant Google and Android-related news from the last week. From thrilling new device releases to software enhancements and market trends, here’s an all-encompassing summary of what piqued our interest.
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### **Netflix Increases Prices Again**
Netflix has raised its subscription fees once more, with the Standard Plan in the U.S. now priced at $17.99 per month, a $2.50 increase. This price hike is also applicable to Canada, Argentina, and Portugal, with other regions likely to follow. Despite this increase, Netflix celebrated a record-breaking Q4 2024, reporting 302 million subscribers and a 16% year-over-year revenue increase. As the company revels in its achievements, many subscribers are left pondering the value of their streaming service.
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### **Samsung and Google Partner for a Child-Friendly Smartwatch**
Samsung and Google have joined forces to design a new **Galaxy Watch 7 LTE** crafted specifically for kids. This smartwatch, featuring parental controls, lets parents oversee their child’s activities via the Google Family Link app. Key features include real-time GPS tracking, limited communication with approved contacts, and educational applications marked with a “Teacher Approved” badge. The watch can also revert back to a traditional Galaxy Watch 7 as the child matures, making it a flexible option for households.
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### **Android 16 Beta Now Available**
Google has unveiled the first public beta of **Android 16**, giving developers a preview of forthcoming features. Notable highlights consist of enhanced app flexibility for foldable devices, compatibility with large screens supporting varying window sizes, and the roll-out of “Live Updates” for immediate notifications. The beta also suggests a more accelerated release schedule, with a complete rollout anticipated in Q2 2025, ahead of Google’s usual timelines.
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### **Samsung Hints at a Tri-Fold Smartphone**
During this year’s **Samsung Galaxy Unpacked**, the company hinted at a **tri-fold smartphone** currently in development. Although no official confirmation was given, a visual during the event showcased the silhouette of the device alongside other foldable gadgets. Speculation indicates that the tri-fold phone could sport a 10-inch display when fully expanded, with production possibly commencing in Q2 2025. This innovation could transform the foldable phone landscape, providing users with enhanced versatility.
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### **Samsung’s 3-in-1 Qi2 Wireless Charging Station**
Samsung is said to be developing a **3-in-1 Qi2 wireless charger** tailored for its Galaxy S25 series. Approved by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), the charger can concurrently power a Qi2-compatible phone, Galaxy Watch, and Galaxy Ring. With capabilities for 15W wireless charging, this accessory could revolutionize the experience for Galaxy S25 users, assuming they utilize a compatible MagSafe case.
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### **Additional Noteworthy Stories**
Here are some more headlines that garnered attention this week:
– **Samsung Galaxy S25 Series**: Now features satellite connectivity, albeit with some limitations.
– **Galaxy S25 Ultra**: Battery life and charging enhancements highlighted in recent testing.
– **Meta’s XR Initiatives**: Involves collaborations with Oakley and the seeding of Orion to developers.
– **Fitbit Heating Issues**: Reports of overheating in Sense and Versa 3 models.
– **OnePlus 13 Upgrade**: Expands AI translation capabilities and addresses bugs.
– **Google’s AI Insights**: Now available on the Galaxy S25 series, featuring improved search functionalities.
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### **In Conclusion**
This week has been brimming with noteworthy progress in the Google and Android landscape. From hardware breakthroughs such as Samsung’s tri-fold smartphone and child-friendly smartwatches to software improvements with Android 16, the tech world is advancing swiftly. Keep an eye out for more updates as these stories unfold, and be sure to return next week for another summary of the latest news.
**What stood out to you the most this week? Share your thoughts in the comments!**
