AllYouCanTech

Google incorporates Project Astra into the Gemini division in anticipation of its public debut.

# **Google’s Project Astra: From Concept to Implementation**

## **Introduction**
Google’s Project Astra, initially a pioneering research endeavor, is now evolving into a practical application. First announced at Google I/O 2024, Astra aimed to redefine the frontiers of artificial intelligence (AI) and multimodal engagement. Now, Google is set to launch Astra for **Gemini Advanced subscribers** on **Pixel devices**, representing a remarkable advancement in AI-driven assistance.

## **What is Project Astra?**
Project Astra is a sophisticated AI platform created by Google DeepMind, intended to improve real-time, multimodal interactions. It combines **vision, voice, and situational awareness** to deliver more engaging and intelligent replies. The objective is to develop an AI assistant that can **see, hear, and comprehend** its environment in real-time, enhancing its interactivity and applicability in daily situations.

## **Key Developments and Organizational Changes**
In the process of transitioning from research to a consumer product, Google has implemented several strategic modifications:

– **Project Astra is now with the Gemini app team**: Previously under **Google DeepMind**, Astra has transitioned to the **Gemini app framework**, aligning it with Google’s overall AI vision.
– **New leadership**: Former Meta VP **Chris Struhar** has taken on the role of **Vice President of Product** for the Gemini app, overseeing Astra’s integration and progress.
– **Upcoming launch**: Astra is anticipated to launch for **Gemini Advanced subscribers on Pixel devices** later this month, extending its advanced AI functionalities to a broader audience.

## **What Astra Brings to Gemini Live**
Upon its release, Astra will introduce **enhanced multimodal features** to **Gemini Live**, allowing users to:

– **Share live video feeds**: Users can demonstrate their surroundings to Astra, which will provide **real-time, context-sensitive replies**.
– **Screen sharing**: Astra can evaluate the content on a user’s screen and deliver **customized assistance**, making it an invaluable resource for productivity and troubleshooting.

## **Future Prospects: AR and Wearables**
Google is already envisioning applications beyond smartphones. The subsequent phase for Astra includes **integration with AR and VR devices**, positioning it as a potential revolutionary force for **smart glasses and wearable AI helpers**. Google has also invited **trusted testers** to join a **Project Astra waitlist**, indicating its dedication to expanding Astra’s functionalities into augmented reality.

## **Conclusion**
The shift of Project Astra from a research project to a practical AI assistant signifies a significant milestone for Google. With its **multimodal functionalities, real-time interactions, and future AR potential**, Astra is set to transform how users engage with AI. As it becomes available to **Gemini Advanced subscribers**, the world will soon witness the next phase of intelligent assistants—one that not only responds but genuinely comprehends.

Stay tuned as Google continues to explore the frontiers of AI with Project Astra! 🚀

Google to Present Features of Android 16 Prior to Early Launch

# **Google’s Android 16 Advances to ‘Trunk Stable’ Phase, Set for June Launch**

Google is making notable progress in its Android development, as the President of Android, Sameer Samat, has announced that **Android 16 is on course for a June launch**. This represents a departure from the standard August debut usually seen alongside the introduction of Google’s flagship Pixel devices. The hastened schedule is credited to a new developmental strategy termed **“Trunk Stable,”** which facilitates a more efficient and organized software release process.

## **What Does the ‘Trunk Stable’ Phase Mean?**

The **“Trunk Stable”** phase signifies a significant evolution in Google’s approach to Android development. Traditionally, developers would work on individual code branches, merging them closer to the final release, often resulting in delays and last-minute bug fixes. Now, with the **Trunk Stable method,** all developers work collaboratively on a unified branch of code from the beginning. This enables:

– **Quicker identification and resolution of bugs**
– **Streamlined testing workflows**
– **An earlier and more seamless release time frame**

As per Samat, this transformation has permitted Google to **advance its Android 16 release timeline** while ensuring software quality. He remarked, *“One of the reasons for our previous release timeline is that we would conduct that merge in June. Subsequently, it would take us from June until later in the year to resolve all those issues. Thus, one of the challenges we set for ourselves internally is to try to release this earlier.”*

## **What to Anticipate from Android 16?**

Though Google has yet to disclose all the features of Android 16, Samat indicated that the company intends to **highlight some major updates prior to launch**. This implies that users may receive an advance glimpse of new features ahead of the official rollout.

Furthermore, Google is still deliberating whether to launch all new features simultaneously or to introduce them progressively through **quarterly Android updates**. This strategy has been employed in recent years, enabling users to access new functionalities more frequently instead of waiting for a substantial OS update.

## **Effects on Samsung’s One UI 7 and Future Releases**

The early arrival of Android 16 could significantly influence Samsung’s software update timetable. A recent rumor suggests that **Samsung might bypass incremental updates like One UI 7.1 or 7.1.1** and instead directly transition to **One UI 8** to synchronize with Android 16.

Samsung’s **One UI 7 update has already been postponed until April**, and some industry analysts speculate that the company may focus on integrating Android 16 rather than on incremental updates. However, this remains conjectural, as Samsung has not officially confirmed any modifications to its update plan.

## **Concluding Insights**

Google’s transition to the **Trunk Stable** development model is a transformative change for Android updates. By optimizing the development workflow, the company is not only **launching Android 16 sooner** but also enhancing software stability and quality. As we near the anticipated June release, users can expect **early previews of features** and a potentially more seamless rollout.

With this innovative approach, Google is establishing a benchmark for future Android updates, ensuring that users receive the latest advancements **more rapidly than ever before**.

Google Unveiling Lock Screen Widgets for Devices with Android 16 QPR1 Update

# **Lock Screens on Android Phones Will Become Much More Functional**

## **Introduction**
Android users are set for a significant enhancement as Google is ready to roll out **lock screen widgets** for Android smartphones and tablets. This highly anticipated feature, already present on the **Google Pixel Tablet**, will soon be available on all Android devices with the launch of **Android 16 QPR1**. The update is projected to start deploying in **late Summer 2025**, offering improved functionality and ease of use for users.

—

## **What’s New?**
Google recently revealed in a blog entry that **lock screen widgets** will be incorporated into the **Android Open Source Project (AOSP)**. This implies that every Android manufacturer will gain access to this feature, although it will be their responsibility to integrate it into their products.

### **Key Features of the Update:**
– **Lock screen widgets will be accessible on both Android phones and tablets.**
– **The feature will launch with Android 16 QPR1, anticipated in late Summer 2025.**
– **OEMs will not have the ability to alter the visual design of the widgets.**
– **All widgets will be designed to work with the lock screen interface.**

While Google Pixel devices are likely to receive the feature first, other brands like **Samsung, OnePlus, and Xiaomi** may take longer to include it in their offerings.

—

## **How Will Lock Screen Widgets Enhance Android Phones?**
The addition of lock screen widgets will offer numerous advantages, making Android devices more **engaging and user-friendly**. Here’s the benefit breakdown:

### **1. Instant Access to Key Information**
Users will have the ability to **view and interact with widgets** straight from the lock screen without needing to unlock their phones. This might feature:
– **Weather forecasts**
– **Calendar schedules**
– **Music playback controls**
– **Fitness metrics**
– **Smart home management**

### **2. Quicker App Engagements**
Instead of unlocking the device and scrolling through several screens, users can swiftly perform tasks like:
– Reviewing **to-do lists**
– Operating **smart home gadgets**
– Checking **live sports updates**
– Monitoring **current stock values**

### **3. Enhanced Customization & Efficiency**
With widget access on the lock screen, users can tailor their interface and instantly access the most pertinent information. This will render Android devices **more productive** and **intuitive**.

—

## **Will All Android Devices Support Lock Screen Widgets?**
Although the feature will be part of AOSP, it remains at the discretion of **device manufacturers (OEMs)** to implement it. However, Google has indicated that **OEMs are not allowed to modify the design of lock screen widgets**. Thus, the experience will remain uniform across all Android devices.

Some manufacturers might decide **not to incorporate** this feature if they desire a different lock screen setup. Nonetheless, prominent brands such as **Samsung, OnePlus, and Xiaomi** are likely to embrace it, considering the demand for widgets.

—

## **What Other Features Are Coming with Android 16?**
Lock screen widgets are merely one of the numerous **new functionalities** arriving with Android 16. Another thrilling addition is **Live Updates**, which will deliver immediate notifications and information directly on the lock screen.

### **Additional Anticipated Features in Android 16:**
– **Boosted security and privacy settings**
– **Enhanced battery management**
– **Greater customization possibilities for the lock screen**
– **Improved AI-driven suggestions and automations**

—

## **Final Thoughts**
The introduction of **lock screen widgets** in **Android 16 QPR1** marks a transformative moment for Android users. This capability will enhance smartphones, making them more **engaging, effective, and convenient** by enabling users to access vital information without needing to unlock their devices.

As we near the **late Summer 2025 launch**, Android users can expect a **more robust and personalized lock screen experience**. Whether you are a productivity aficionado, a smart home user, or someone who appreciates quick information access, this update will enhance your Android device’s utility.

Keep an eye out for further updates as Android 16 progresses! 🚀

Pixel Camera 9.8 Launched with Fresh Enhancements in the March Feature Drop

# **Update to Pixel Camera 9.8 Introduces New Toggles and March Feature Drop Support**

Google has issued a modest update for its Pixel Camera application, coinciding with the launch of the March Feature Drop. The new **Pixel Camera 9.8 update** brings a few minor yet practical enhancements, such as a toggle for astrophotography animations and better explanations for current features. Although this update isn’t a major transformation, it improves user interaction and harmonizes the app with the latest enhancements from the Pixel Feature Drop.

—

## **What’s New in Pixel Camera 9.8?**

### **1. Astrophotography Animation Toggle**
A noteworthy addition in the Pixel Camera 9.8 update is the introduction of a toggle which permits users to turn off animations for astrophotography shots. Previously, long-exposure night sky images automatically included animations, but now users have the choice to disable them.

– **Steps to Turn Off Astrophotography Animation:**
Head to **Settings** > **Advanced** in the Pixel Camera app and switch off the “Turn on animation for Astrophotography” feature.

This function provides users with greater control over their astrophotography images, enabling them to take still shots without the accompanying motion effects.

### **2. Refined Description for Palm Timer**
Another small yet beneficial change in this update is the adjustment of the description for the **Palm Timer** feature. The previous description only stated that the feature was compatible with the front camera. The revised text now clarifies that the timer can be triggered by showing a palm to either the **front or rear camera**.

This clarification ensures users are fully informed about the Palm Timer’s capabilities, making it simpler to capture hands-free photos using either camera.

—

## **Enhancements from the March Feature Drop**
Though Pixel Camera 9.8 is a minor update, it supports the new features rolled out in the **March Feature Drop**. Key additions from the Feature Drop feature:

– **Dual Screen Preview for Video Capture** – This feature is made available for **Pixel Fold** users, allowing for video recording previews on both internal and external screens.
– **”Add Me” Functionality for Dual Screen Preview** – Specifically for the **Pixel 9 Pro Fold**, this function ensures all subjects appear in the frame while utilizing Dual Screen Preview.
– **Connected Cameras** – Users can now link another **Pixel phone or a GoPro** to act as a remote camera for livestreaming and recording.

These improvements elevate the overall experience in photography and videography for Pixel users, especially those with foldable devices.

—

## **Earlier Pixel Camera Updates**
Google has been steadily enhancing the Pixel Camera app with small but significant updates. Recent changes include:

– **Pixel Camera 9.7** – A minor patch focusing on bug fixes.
– **Pixel Camera 9.6** – Introduced an **underwater mode**, easier access to **astrophotography mode**, and support for **vertical panoramas**.
– **Quick Access Settings** – Implemented in a prior version to enhance accessibility of camera settings.

—

## **How to Obtain the Pixel Camera 9.8 Update**
The **Pixel Camera 9.8 update** is currently being rolled out via the **Google Play Store**. As with most Google updates, availability may take some time to reach all users.

To check for the update:
1. Launch the **Google Play Store**.
2. Look for **Pixel Camera** (or **Google Camera**).
3. Hit **Update** if it’s available.

—

## **Closing Thoughts**
Although the **Pixel Camera 9.8 update** is relatively minor, it introduces valuable refinements that enhance the overall user experience. The option to disable astrophotography animations allows photographers more control, while the updated Palm Timer description ensures users appreciate its full range of capabilities. Together with the **March Feature Drop enhancements**, Pixel users can look forward to a more refined and feature-rich camera experience.

If you haven’t seen the update yet, keep checking the **Google Play Store**, as it should be available to all users shortly. 🚀📸

Fantastic Strategy Games to Enjoy on the Meta Quest 3 Ahead of the Arrival of Civilization VII VR

# The Finest Meta Quest Strategy Games: An Innovative Look at a Rich Genre

Virtual reality has transformed numerous gaming categories, and strategy games are not left out. The **Meta Quest** platform provides a distinctive way to engage with strategy games, letting players command troops, construct cities, and delve into new realms using an immersive, first-person viewpoint. With **Civilization VII VR** about to debut, there’s no better moment to discover some of the top strategy games currently available on Meta Quest.

## **1. Underworld Overseer – A Dark Fantasy Dungeon Creator**
If you enjoyed the classic **Dungeon Keeper** series, *Underworld Overseer* is essential. This VR strategy title places you in charge of an underground dungeon, where you oversee resources, command minions, and enhance your subterranean domain. The feature allowing you to physically grasp and reposition units introduces a tactile aspect that conventional strategy games lack.

– **Why Play?** A nostalgic yet innovative approach to dungeon management with engaging VR mechanics.
– **Where to Get It?** Accessible via the **Meta Horizon Store**.

## **2. Demeo – The Ultimate Tabletop RPG Adventure**
For enthusiasts of turn-based strategy and tabletop RPGs, *Demeo* is an ideal fusion of the two. This game permits up to four players to embark on dungeon-crawling quests, utilizing a mix of strategy, cooperation, and chance to overcome foes and fulfill objectives. The VR setting makes it feel as if you’re engaging in a real-life board game alongside friends.

– **Why Play?** A social, collaborative experience featuring profound strategic elements.
– **Cross-Platform?** Absolutely! Play with friends on **PC and PlayStation** without VR.

## **3. Little Cities – A Relaxed Approach to City Building**
Not every strategy game has to be intricate. *Little Cities* provides a more laid-back city-building adventure, ideal for brief VR sessions. Players begin with a vacant island and progressively construct a vibrant city, managing zoning, infrastructure, and resources. The game’s **hand-tracking support** adds to the intuitive experience.

– **Why Play?** A carefree city-building endeavor with delightful visuals.
– **Seeking More Complexity?** Check out **Cities VR**, also available on Meta Quest.

## **4. Per Aspera VR – Terraforming Mars**
If Earth feels limiting for your aspirations, *Per Aspera VR* enables you to **terraform Mars** and establish a colony from the ground up. This game merges **resource management, strategic design, and narrative**, placing you in the role of an AI charged with preparing Mars for human settlement. The VR viewpoint amplifies the sense of scale and immersion.

– **Why Play?** A rich, captivating strategy experience with a compelling story.
– **Bonus:** A DLC that extends the game to include post-terraforming trials.

## **5. Gods of Gravity – The Pinnacle of Space Strategy**
*Gods of Gravity* is a **free-to-play** VR strategy game that fuses **real-time strategy (RTS) dynamics with space domination**. Players embody celestial entities, conquering planets, forming fleets, and vying for control over the galaxy. The multiplayer feature injects a competitive spirit, making it one of the standout strategy games on Meta Quest.

– **Why Play?** Rapid-paced, competitive RTS gameplay in a distinctive VR backdrop.
– **Multiplayer?** Yes! Up to **eight players** can engage in grand space confrontations.

## **6. Homeworld: Vast Reaches – A Classic RTS in a VR Setting**
The iconic **Homeworld** series makes its VR introduction with *Homeworld: Vast Reaches*. This game allows players to command fleets in **three-dimensional space**, employing intuitive VR controls to steer ships and partake in tactical skirmishes. The **mixed reality mode** even lets players integrate the action into their living environments.

– **Why Play?** A true-to-form adaptation of the classic RTS franchise with immersive VR control.
– **Story Mode?** Yes! The narrative links the gap between **Homeworld 1 and 2**.

## **Final Reflections**
The **Meta Quest** platform is demonstrating that strategy games can flourish within VR. Whether you’re orchestrating a dungeon, building a city, or conquering the cosmos, these games present **distinct viewpoints and groundbreaking gameplay** that traditional strategy titles can’t replicate. With *Civilization VII VR* on the verge of release, now is an excellent moment to immerse yourself in these extraordinary strategy adventures.

#### **Which Meta Quest strategy game resonates most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments!** 🚀🎮

Samsung Might Bypass One UI 7 and Release One UI 8 Instead, Based on Speculation

# **Samsung’s Delay with One UI 7 and Surprising One UI 8 Speculations**

Samsung Galaxy device owners have been looking forward to the arrival of One UI 7, the latest update based on Android 15. Nevertheless, the rollout has encountered several delays, leaving users frustrated with the lack of a smooth upgrade process. In the meantime, unexpected rumors have emerged that Samsung is already getting ready to unveil One UI 8, rooted in Android 16, much sooner than anticipated. This surprising twist has sparked curiosity regarding Samsung’s software update approach and its implications for Galaxy users.

## **Key Points to Consider**
– There are rumors that Samsung is hastening the introduction of One UI 8, bypassing smaller updates like One UI 7.1 or 7.1.1.
– The launch of One UI 7 has been significantly postponed since late 2024, with an official release now aimed for April 2025.
– It is anticipated that Google will also launch Android 16 earlier than previously thought, potentially in Q2 2025.
– Moving towards One UI 8 may be part of an effort to remain competitive and enhance user satisfaction.

## **The Much-Awaited One UI 7 Rollout**
Samsung’s One UI 7 update, built on Android 15, is one of the most delayed software updates in recent history. Originally scheduled for late 2024, it has suffered numerous setbacks, which include:
– **Beta Testing Challenges:** Samsung has experienced a series of beta iterations, with Beta 5 quickly following Beta 4 due to ongoing issues.
– **Screen Optimization Setbacks:** A significant problem related to display optimization led to yet another delay in February 2025.
– **Unclear Release Schedule:** After extended periods of uncertainty, Samsung has finally confirmed that One UI 7 is set to officially debut in April 2025.

In spite of these setbacks, Samsung has also initiated beta testing programs for a variety of devices, such as the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Fold 6, Galaxy S23 series, and Galaxy Tab S10 series. There is hope that these models will avoid the complications seen with the Galaxy S24 series.

## **The Surprising One UI 8 Speculations**
Just as users were readying themselves for the eagerly awaited One UI 7, fresh rumors surfaced indicating that Samsung is potentially working on One UI 8, which will be based on Android 16. A post by the well-known leaker **IceUniverse** suggests that Samsung might **bypass smaller updates like One UI 7.1 and 7.1.1** and launch directly into One UI 8.

This represents a significant departure from Samsung’s typical update strategy. Usually, Samsung rolls out a major One UI update in the fall, following the official Android launch by Google. However, if the rumors hold true, One UI 8 could make its debut much sooner than initially expected.

## **Reasons Behind the Acceleration to One UI 8**
A number of factors may be driving Samsung’s push to expedite the release of One UI 8:
1. **Google’s Sooner Android 16 Launch:** Google is reportedly gearing up to release Android 16 ahead of schedule, likely in Q2 2025. The Android 16 Beta 2 update was already rolled out in February, indicating that Google is on pace for an early launch.
2. **Consumer Dissatisfaction with One UI 7 Delays:** The constant delays of One UI 7 have left many Galaxy users feeling frustrated. Samsung might be aiming to restore user trust by hastening the transition to the next significant update.
3. **Market Competition:** With competitors like Google and Apple consistently enhancing their software experiences, Samsung may feel the pressure to keep up by providing quicker updates.

## **Implications for Galaxy Users**
For Galaxy users, the potential for an early One UI 8 introduction is both thrilling and worrisome. On one hand, it may allow quicker access to new functionalities and enhancements. On the other hand, skipping interim updates might result in stability concerns if Samsung accelerates the development timeline.

Before Samsung can shift its focus to One UI 8, it must ensure a successful launch of One UI 7. If the rollout in April 2025 proceeds without hitches, the company could be better positioned to hasten its Android 16-based update.

## **Concluding Remarks**
Samsung’s approach to software updates seems to be evolving, with a potential expedited path to One UI 8. While this could be advantageous for keeping Galaxy devices current with the latest Android features, it also raises questions regarding stability and reliability. For the moment, Galaxy users must remain patient to see how Samsung manages the One UI 7 rollout before anticipating One UI 8.

As additional information comes to light, it will be intriguing to observe whether Samsung can effectively strike a balance between speed and quality in its software updates. Stay tuned for further information on One UI 7 and the speculated One UI 8 launch.

Android 16 Beta 2.1 Unveils Preview of Live Updates Feature

# **Google Maps Live Updates Now Operational in Android 16 Beta 2.1**

Google has launched **Android 16 Beta 2.1**, a seemingly modest update that has brought forth a noteworthy new feature—**Live Updates for Google Maps**. This functionality enables users to monitor their navigation progress in real-time across various locations on their Android devices, including the **status bar, notification panel, and lock screen**. Nevertheless, this feature is still under development, with some observed limitations in its application.

## **Understanding Live Updates**

Live Updates in **Android 16** operate in a manner akin to **Live Activities on iPhones**. They serve as **time-sensitive notifications** that deliver real-time information on ongoing activities, such as **rideshare statuses, food deliveries, or navigation progress**. These updates can be seen in different areas of the phone’s interface, allowing users to quickly check essential details without the need to open an app.

Google had earlier showcased Live Updates in a **beta test preview**, but **Android 16 Beta 2.1** represents the first instance of this feature functioning with a real application—**Google Maps**.

## **Functionality of Live Updates in Google Maps**

With **Live Updates activated**, users are able to monitor their navigation progress in the following areas:

– **Status Bar**: A compact, pill-shaped notification displays the estimated time of arrival (ETA).
– **Notification Panel**: A more comprehensive display offers additional navigation details.
– **Lock Screen**: Users can track their travel progress without unlocking their devices.
– **Always-On Display (AOD)**: The feature is currently not complete, as Live Updates are shown in a minimized view instead of an expanded one.

### **Current Beta Version Limitations**
Even though Live Updates are operational, they have not yet achieved full optimization. **Android Authority’s Mishaal Rahman** found that the feature does not function as intended on the **Always-On Display**. In Google’s beta preview, Live Updates were visible in an **expanded format**, but in **Android 16 Beta 2.1**, they are displayed **collapsed**, diminishing their usefulness at a quick glance.

Moreover, the **status bar update is limited**, only revealing the ETA without any supplementary navigation details. More extensive information is accessible in the **lock screen and notification panel**.

## **Future of Live Updates**

Live Updates are anticipated to be a **crucial aspect of Android 16**, which is expected to be released later this year. As the **Android Beta Program** continues, Google may add **enhanced functionality** and polish this feature to provide a smooth experience.

For the time being, **Android 16 Beta 2.1** users can experience a preview of this new feature, even though it is still in development. As Google progresses with refining Live Updates, users can anticipate a more unified and convenient navigation experience in the ultimate release of **Android 16**.

—

### **Concluding Insights**
The rollout of **Live Updates for Google Maps** in **Android 16 Beta 2.1** is an encouraging advancement toward **improved real-time notifications**. While there are still some **constraints**, this feature holds the promise of greatly enhancing user interactions with navigation and other time-sensitive applications. Keep an eye out for more updates as Google works on this intriguing new functionality.

Samsung Strives to Eliminate Bendgate Concerns with a Tougher Galaxy S25 Edge

# **Samsung Executive Emphasizes Durability as a Crucial Attribute in Ultra-Slim Galaxy S25 Edge**

Samsung is set to unveil one of its most ambitious smartphones to date—the **Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge**. This ultra-svelte gadget is said to measure merely **5.84mm in thickness**, positioning it among the slimmest smartphones ever created. However, with such a slender profile, durability concerns understandably arise. To tackle these issues, a Samsung executive has assured that **durability will be a primary emphasis** for the latest device.

## **Striking a Balance Between Slimness and Durability**

Developing a smartphone that is both **ultra-thin and robust** poses a considerable challenge. Historically, thinner devices have encountered structural problems, with certain models facing bending issues—like Apple’s notorious **“bendgate”** incident with the iPhone 6. Samsung, nonetheless, seems to be adopting a proactive stance to ensure the Galaxy S25 Edge avoids similar pitfalls.

Annika Bizon, **Samsung UK’s Marketing Director**, recently discussed the forthcoming device with **TechRadar**, highlighting two essential elements: **an exquisite design and superior durability**.

*”I can’t reveal too much, but I will say that [the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge] features a beautifully crafted form. There are two points to make. Firstly, it’s absolutely gorgeous. And when you consider the technology packed into that small space, it’s quite impressive,”* Bizon remarked.

She also noted, *”The second point is about durability. With anything that is slim, durability [needs to be integrated into the package]. Those are the two features [of the Edge] that we find quite thrilling

Samsung Unveils Updates for Two Health Apps on Galaxy Devices

# **Samsung’s Latest Health App Enhancements Target Sleep Improvement with Daylight Savings Time**

As we get ready to lose an hour of rest due to Daylight Savings Time (DST), Samsung is introducing new features in its Health app aimed at assisting users in modifying and enhancing their sleep quality. The tech company has revealed two key updates heading to Galaxy smartphones later this month: the **Sleep Environment Report** and an addition of **Activity Consistency** to the Energy Score within the Health app. These improvements are designed to give users enhanced understanding of their sleep environment and overall health.

## **Recognizing the Effects of Daylight Savings Time on Sleep**
Daylight Savings Time can greatly alter sleep habits, with studies indicating that younger people are particularly affected. A recent Samsung study from 2024 demonstrates how DST influences individuals across a range of ages, underscoring the necessity for tools that ease sleep irregularities.

To tackle this issue, Samsung is implementing updates that concentrate on enhancing sleep conditions and better monitoring activity levels.

## **New Features in Samsung Health to Enhance Sleep**
The newest update to Samsung’s Health app includes two significant features:

### **1. Sleep Environment Report**
The **Sleep Environment Report** is aimed at offering users detailed information about their sleeping circumstances. By collaborating with **SmartThings**, this function evaluates environmental elements such as:
– **Room temperature**
– **Humidity levels**
– **CO₂ concentration**

These elements can crucially influence sleep quality. Should any of these aspects be out of harmony, the Health app will alert users, enabling them to make necessary changes for an improved night’s sleep.

This feature will be available for **One UI 7 devices**, particularly the **Galaxy S25 series**, and requires **Samsung Health version 6.29.5 or newer**. Users must also ensure their device is linked to SmartThings to experience the complete advantages of this report.

### **2. Activity Consistency in Energy Score**
Samsung is also refining its **Energy Score** feature with a fresh component called **Activity Consistency**. This update seeks to give users a clearer view of their overall fitness by reviewing their activity levels from the past four weeks.

The **Energy Score** was first launched on the **Galaxy Watch** with Samsung’s Wear OS 5 update. It assesses sleep patterns, physical exertion, heart rate, and other metrics to produce a score that aids users in evaluating their daily energy levels.

With the newly introduced **Activity Consistency** metric, users will gain more profound insights into their fitness behaviors, assisting them in sustaining a more balanced and enduring activity schedule.

## **Samsung’s Comprehensive Initiatives for Sleep and Health**
The **Sleep Environment Report** is not entirely new within Samsung’s offerings. A comparable feature was recently unveiled for the **Galaxy Ring**, enabling sleep duration guidance and evaluations of sleep settings. This development fits into Samsung’s broader plan of incorporating sophisticated health-monitoring capabilities throughout its devices.

Moreover, Samsung has announced that **One UI 7** will start to reach more compatible devices as of **April**, meaning additional users will soon have access to these innovative features in the Health app.

## **Concluding Thoughts**
Samsung’s recent enhancements to its Health app arrive at a pivotal moment as users brace for the sleep disturbances linked to Daylight Savings Time. By utilizing SmartThings and advanced activity tracking, these new features strive to aid users in establishing a more favorable sleep environment and maintaining steady activity levels.

Currently, these updates will be exclusive to **One UI 7 devices**, but with Samsung’s wider rollout anticipated for April, more Galaxy users can look forward to benefiting from these improvements shortly.

If you have a **Galaxy S25 series device**, be sure to watch for the **Samsung Health update later this month**—it could very well assist you in regaining some of that lost sleep!

Google to Eliminate Multiple Apps from Play Store Because of Ad Fraud

# **Google Eliminates 180 Harmful Apps in Major Ad Fraud Operation**

## **Summary**
Google has taken strong measures against an extensive ad fraud operation by eliminating more than 180 harmful apps from the Play Store. These applications, which garnered over 56 million downloads, were crafted to deceive advertisers into funding fictitious user engagement. Often masquerading as legitimate applications, these fraudulent apps inundated users with advertisements and proved hard to uninstall.

## **Grasping the Ad Fraud Operation**
Distinct from conventional malware or spyware, ad fraud operations exploit digital advertising frameworks to earn income through misleading tactics. In this instance, scammers produced “vapor apps”—phony applications that imitated well-known software like flashlights or QR code readers. Once downloaded, these applications exhibited an overwhelming number of ads, frequently without users’ awareness, while inaccurately reporting engagement data to advertisers.

Several of these apps even hid their existence by eliminating their icons or disabling the “open” option, complicating the process for users to recognize and remove them. This not only diminished user experience but also deceived advertisers into compensating for non-existent engagement.

## **Google’s Strategy Against the Threat**
Google, in partnership with Integral Ad Science (IAS), detected and eliminated these deceptive apps from the Play Store. IAS played an essential role in exposing the scheme and collaborating with industry stakeholders to alleviate its effects.

To further safeguard users, Google has established enhanced security protocols:
– **Google Play Protect Improvements:** The security system will now alert users and automatically disable fraudulent applications, even if they were acquired from external sources.
– **More Rigorous App Review Processes:** Google is reinforcing its app vetting methods to stop similar fraudulent apps from circumventing security assessments in the future.

## **Consequences for Users and Advertisers**
This ad fraud scheme not only impacted users by bombarding them with unwanted advertisements but also negatively affected legitimate advertisers and developers. Advertisers incurred losses due to false engagement, while sincere app developers faced unhealthy competition from fraudulent applications. This incident emphasizes the persistent challenges in upholding the integrity of digital marketplaces like the Google Play Store.

## **Tips for Staying Safe from Harmful Apps**
To safeguard yourself from fraudulent applications, adhere to these recommended practices:
– **Download Only from Reputable Sources:** Rely on official app stores like Google Play and steer clear of third-party sites.
– **Examine App Reviews and Ratings:** Watch for warning signs in user reviews, like complaints about excessive advertisements or trouble uninstalling the app.
– **Monitor App Permissions:** Be wary if an app requests unnecessary permissions, such as access to your contacts or location.
– **Utilize Security Software:** Activate Google Play Protect and consider employing well-known mobile security applications for further safety.

## **Concluding Remarks**
Google’s prompt action in removing these 180 harmful apps is a positive development, but it also highlights the necessity for ongoing vigilance in the digital realm. Users must exercise caution when downloading applications, while advertisers and developers should advocate for stricter security measures to curb future fraud operations.

By staying knowledgeable and proactive, we can all play a part in fostering a safer and more reliable mobile ecosystem.