AllYouCanTech

Google Phone App to Roll Out Function Boosting Urgent Call Awareness

Your Android device is set to receive a digital air horn for urgent calls.

What you should be aware of:
– Google might be evaluating a significant enhancement to the Phone app that may allow Android users to label their calls as “urgent.”
– A function referred to as Expressive Calling is rumored to enable you to select a “call reason” — such as “It’s urgent!” or “Quick question” — while initiating a call.
– The urgent label may only bypass Do Not Disturb if you are already in the recipient’s contacts, helping to prevent unwanted spam calls.

Google seems to be considering a modification to one of the most recognizable aspects of your device: the instant it starts ringing. Latest code discovered in the Phone by Google app indicates that Android users could soon be able to mark a call as “urgent” and potentially bypass someone’s Do Not Disturb settings.

The team at Android Authority has found a potential feature named Expressive Calling, which might alter how we capture someone’s notice when a conventional ringtone isn’t sufficient.

The ringing of your Android phone feels like an anxiety-laden gamble. Is it a spam robot regarding your vehicle’s extended warranty? Or is it your child’s school reaching out with a genuine emergency? Numerous users employ Do Not Disturb to minimize interruptions and only permit significant calls. However, if something is genuinely critical, repeatedly calling someone is not an ideal approach.

That’s where Expressive Calling comes into play. An analysis of the app reveals options that allow you to choose a “call reason” before the phone starts ringing, with selections ranging from “It’s urgent!” to friendlier options like “News to share” or “Quick question,” accompanied by emoji.

Potential DND override:
If the feature functions as intended, the urgent label could bypass Do Not Disturb, but only if you are saved in the individual’s contacts. This is crucial as it stops unidentified callers from interrupting you.

This feature appears to depend on RCS and SMS permissions, suggesting both parties on the call may require compatible apps or settings enabled. Without that compatibility, the call reason might not display at all.

For recipients, Android might show something akin to “Missed an Urgent Call,” indicating it wasn’t merely a standard call. Ensure you’re utilizing the Google Phone app, as other dialers may not support this feature upon its release.

As with numerous unreleased features, this one could evolve or even be scrapped prior to launch. Google has yet to reveal a release schedule, and initial versions of Expressive Calling don’t seem to be operational for anyone at this moment.

Nevertheless, the intricacy of the code suggests it’s a feature poised for introduction, likely starting on Pixel phones before it becomes available on other Android devices.

“Android Users Are Now Able to Link Live Cameras with the Matter 1.5 Update”

The Connectivity Standard Alliance (CSA) has unveiled the launch of its newest update, Matter 1.5, which brings significant improvements for smart home gadgets. This upgrade is especially remarkable for its camera support, allowing live video and audio streaming, along with extra controls like multi-stream setups, pan-tilt-zoom, detection and privacy zones, and adaptable storage options. Developers can now create cameras with Matter compatibility, ensuring smooth integration with current apps and services.

Matter 1.5 also broadens support to “closures,” such as window shades, drapes, awnings, gates, and garage doors. This enables smart home device manufacturers to depict various motion types, including sliding and rotating, and to set up single/dual panels and nested systems. Furthermore, the update introduces Soil Sensor support for tracking moisture and temperature in both indoor and outdoor plants.

The CSA is also enhancing energy management capabilities with Matter 1.5, allowing devices to share standardized data regarding energy pricing, tariffs, and grid carbon intensity. The SDK and testing tools for Matter 1.5 are accessible for Alliance members, and consumers can anticipate seeing these new features in their smart home products shortly.

This upgrade follows the Matter 1.4 release, which broadened device support for items like water heaters and heat pumps and enhanced thermostat functionality. The subsequent Matter 1.4.1 minor update concentrated on streamlining the setup experience for consumers through Multi-Device Setup QR Codes and NFC tags.

Discover Meta’s Ultra-Authentic VR Settings with Friends, No VR Headset Required

The latest Meta Horizon Engine is transforming virtual reality by allowing users to delve into hyper-realistic environments with up to eight participants. This breakthrough is fueled by Meta Hyperscape, a Meta Quest application that converts real-life places into intricate virtual landscapes utilizing the sensors of the headset. Gamers can enter these realms through a Meta Quest headset or mobile device, permitting them to roam freely and engage with the surroundings.

A recent enhancement improves the multiplayer gameplay, enabling up to seven extra players to participate in a world, independent of their gaming platform. This functionality is available via the Meta Horizon app, which can be found on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. Users can effortlessly share their Hyperscape creations with friends by merely clicking a share link, simplifying the process of inviting others to the engaging experience.

Meta’s Hyperscape feature, introduced in beta at the Meta Connect event, has captivated users with its capability to capture and depict environments with remarkable realism. The incorporation of these settings into the Horizon Worlds Engine allows for collaborative experiences, even without the necessity of a VR headset. This innovation guarantees seamless gameplay by rendering graphics in real-time on the user’s device, enriching the overall engagement.

Meta invites users to bond with remote friends and family through these virtual realms, providing a distinctive method to enjoy quality moments together. The company aims to enhance the feature to support more than eight users in future updates, with the current update being phased in.

For those eager to explore these virtual settings, the Meta Quest 3S is offered at a reduced price, making it a compelling choice for experiencing cutting-edge VR technology.

Android Devices Set to Get New AI Image Recognition Functionality

Nonetheless, it cannot eliminate every deepfake.

Budget-Friendly Premium Headphones: Leading 2025 Model Now Offered at $99

The Baseus Bose-powered Inspire XH1 is currently priced at just $99, making it a must-recommend.

OnePlus Earbuds Offered at 50% Off in Amazon’s Black Friday Sale

The OneBuds Nord Buds 3 Pro represent a dependable, bass-oriented set of earbuds that provide exceptional value for those in search of quality audio without breaking the bank. With a retail price of $80, these earbuds are currently being offered for just $40 during Amazon’s Black Friday event, which makes them a compelling choice for budget-minded shoppers.

These earbuds feature adaptive active noise cancellation, allowing for a personalized listening experience with multiple preset options and a specific bass boost mode for those who prefer a richer sound profile. Although they do not support wireless charging, they make up for it with rapid charging through USB-C and impressive battery longevity, delivering up to 20 hours with ANC activated and as much as 44 hours with it deactivated when utilizing the charging case.

The OneBuds Nord Buds 3 Pro come with the HeyMelody app, enabling users to modify equalization settings and engage features such as BassWave 2.0 with Serenade mode, as well as four ANC settings. They also feature an IP55 rating for resistance to water and dust, include three integrated microphones, and have an ergonomic design for comfortable prolonged use. With three sizes of ear tips available, users can achieve the ideal fit for their ears.

While these earbuds may not hold the title of the best on the market, they certainly provide remarkable value at their reduced price, making them a worthwhile option for anyone in search of budget-friendly earbuds that deliver reliable performance.

WiiM’s Amp Ultra Gets Significant Price Cut for a Short Period

The WiiM Amp Ultra is presently priced at $423, marking a substantial reduction from its initial cost of $529. This network streamer is a remarkable offering from WiiM, celebrated for its high-quality audio gear. The Amp Ultra integrates a strong DAC with a 100W amplifier, a minimalist aesthetic, and a 3.5-inch built-in display, rendering it a flexible option for audio aficionados.

The unit excels at powering demanding audio systems, such as the Wharfedale Lintons, providing exquisite sound fidelity. The Amp Ultra’s construction boasts a full-metal chassis with an industrial design, a multifunction rotary control, and a user-friendly remote. It delivers 100W per channel at 8Ω, ramping up to 200W at 4Ω, and is equipped with an ESS 9039Q2M Sabre DAC for exceptional audio quality.

Compatibility with major music streaming services and room correction features boost its desirability, alongside multi-room audio capabilities. The WiiM mobile application offers a streamlined interface with a range of customization possibilities. However, the Amp Ultra does not support AirPlay, which could be a limitation for certain users.

In summary, the Amp Ultra is an excellent option for anyone in search of a powerful, intelligent amplifier with an elegant look, and it is currently offered at a lower price on Amazon.

“Uncover the Groundbreaking Shokz Open Earbuds at an Incredible Deal Price”

Shokz’s OpenDots One are now available for only $139, representing a substantial 30% markdown.

In the past year, there has been a noticeable increase in the popularity of open earbuds, and it’s easy to understand why; these buds are far more comfortable to wear, and they provide comparable sound quality to traditional earbuds. While there are numerous types of open earbuds, the clip-on design is gaining traction due to its distinct benefits.

Shokz has been an early player in this market, and its newest open earbuds, the OpenDots One, rank among the top options available. They were introduced in April 2025 for $199 and are now seeing their first significant price drop, reducing the cost to just $139 on Amazon — a 30% reduction from their regular pricing.

The OpenDots One offer significantly superior comfort compared to standard earbuds, while still ensuring a secure fit. They remain in place during workouts, the sound quality is impressive, and they produce dynamic bass. Additionally, the buds come with IP54 ingress protection, and their battery life surpasses that of conventional earbuds.

✅Recommended if: You’re in search of open earbuds that prioritize comfort. Since the buds don’t insert directly into your ear canal, there’s no pressure when wearing them, making them ideal for extended use. Furthermore, the battery life is excellent, lasting up to nine hours on a single charge. They perform just as well for daily activities as they do during exercise.

❌Skip this deal if: You require noise isolation. Due to their design, the noise isolation isn’t as effective — these buds are designed to allow sounds from your surroundings to be heard. They lack AptX support, which means you won’t experience high-resolution audio.

I predominantly use open earbuds nowadays, as they tend to be much more comfortable. The OpenDots One’s clip-on design does make them quite noticeable, but the benefit is a snug fit that doesn’t create any pressure, even for extended wear. The buds are lightweight, and because they sit outside the ear canal, some ambient sounds can still be perceived.

Aside from the noise isolation being less robust compared to similar models from Bose and Sony, I haven’t encountered any problems with the OpenDots One. The fit is excellent, the sound quality is remarkably impressive due to the dual audio drivers — far better than I expected — and they offer a strong low-end that enhances the overall audio experience. You can also easily customize the sound to fit your preferences, and there’s no sound leakage, so you won’t disturb anyone even if you crank up the volume during your commute.

Additionally, they are lightweight, weighing just 6.5g, and I often forgot I had them on. Although I was initially uncertain about the fit, I faced no problems in that regard—they remain secure even during running or other workouts. With IP54 dust and water resistance, they are ideal for exercise. While they may not provide the best noise isolation, I found this to be beneficial; I wouldn’t recommend them for flights, but for all other scenarios, they perform admirably.

The buds can be worn on either ear and connect via Bluetooth 5.4. I experienced no issues pairing with my Pixel 10 Pro and Find X9 Pro, and they can connect to two devices simultaneously. The charging case is compact and supports Qi charging alongside USB-C. The only downside is the absence of AptX; audio support is limited to SBC and AAC, which means you miss out on high-res audio.

You can expect over nine hours of use from a single charge, which is significantly better than most standard earbuds. Fast charging is also available, providing two hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, and the case holds enough power for 30 hours — meaning you only need to charge it once a week (which is what I did).

In conclusion, the OpenDots One have been absolutely fantastic. The primary reason I appreciate them is their comfortable fit, but that doesn’t diminish the exceptional sound quality. I also value the battery life and IP54 ingress protection, making these among the best open earbuds I’ve tried to date. The current sale price of $139 makes these earbuds an even more attractive option.

Google’s Leading Streaming Gadget Priced at $75, Providing a Superior Bargain Compared to New Smart TVs This Black Friday

This is the leading streaming device from Google, serving as the next generation of Chromecast. While many might be rushing to catch the best Black Friday smart TV offers, why spend a fortune when an affordable streaming device can fulfill your needs? With Amazon’s Black Friday sale happening now, you can take advantage of a 25% discount on the Google TV Streamer 4K, allowing customers to enjoy premium, Google-supported 4K TV streaming for only $75.

The Google TV Streamer boasts a stylish, minimalist design that significantly upgrades from the earlier Chromecast model. Featuring 32GB of internal storage, users can also take advantage of the integrated USB-C port for additional storage as well as powering the device.

Similar to most streaming boxes, this device connects to the television via an HDMI port, and it also has an Ethernet port for those who prefer a wired internet connection over Wi-Fi. Additionally, it’s compatible with a broad range of Google’s smart home gadgets, functioning as a smart home hub that can be used alongside the voice remote.

The offer is also accessible in both of the device’s color options, which include the lighter Porcelain and the darker, gray Haze variant. Google claims that the TV Streamer provides performance that is up to 22% faster than the previous Chromecast model, while also adding compatibility for Dolby Atmos and spatial audio profiles.

Amazon has reduced the price of the Google TV Streamer 4K from $100 to just $75 as part of the retailer’s extensive Black Friday promotions. Featuring 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos, this streaming device delivers high-resolution playback across numerous applications such as Google TV, Netflix, Prime Video, and many more.

Recommended if: you are in search of a great deal on a Google TV streaming device that also supports 4K resolutions; you desire an easy setup and usability, along with a voice-compatible remote control; you appreciated earlier Chromecast devices, and you seek access to Google’s latest TV streaming capabilities.

Avoid this deal if: you’re looking to save money and consider a less expensive option, such as a non-4K Amazon TV Fire Stick or a budget device at an even lower price; you require a TV streaming device that can be placed discreetly behind your TV rather than on a flat surface.

As anticipated, the 4K version of the Google TV Streamer supports resolutions up to 4K, includes an Ethernet port for enhanced streaming speeds, and features a sleek, user-friendly voice-compatible remote control.

For individuals who enjoyed past Chromecast and Google TV products, this gadget will seem quite familiar due to the similar operating system and continued compatibility with various Google smart home and other devices.

The 4K TV Streamer is equipped with 32GB of storage, a USB-C port for power and additional data transfers, an HDMI port, and access to a multitude of popular streaming services.

Review: GameSir’s Newest Affordable Mobile Controller Offers a Featherweight Build and Hall Effect Joysticks for $27

The X5 Lite offers the simplest way to enhance your mobile gaming experience.