Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Google Unveils Gemini Image Markup Features to Improve Application Precision

You can now finally direct Gemini’s focus with the latest image markup features.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Gemini now allows you to sketch directly on images, enabling you to convey your intent to the AI without lengthy explanations in text.
  • You have the option to circle, highlight, doodle, or annotate, and Gemini interprets these markings as context for analysis or modifications.
  • This seems to be a subtle server-side trial, so the new features might not be available immediately, even with an updated app.

Notice

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Quest 3 Offered at $407 for a Short Duration

This is the finest offer I’ve encountered throughout the holiday period on ANY electronic device, and the all-time lowest price for the Quest 3, plus it comes with a $100 Amazon digital credit!

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Are you looking to purchase a Meta Quest 3 as a gift this holiday season? There has NEVER been a better moment than today, as Amazon has the all-time lowest price for the greatest VR console ever created! Grab it now for $92.89 off, in addition to a $100 Amazon digital credit.

Previously, the lowest price we observed was during Black Friday when Meta provided $75 gift cards with the Quest 3, but you still needed to pay $499 upfront for that. This time, it’s a fantastic $92.89 off with no hassle, and Amazon even adds a digital credit for your convenience.

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Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses Set to Include Virtual Handwriting and Instagram Reels Compatibility by 2026

**EMG Handwriting and Instagram Reels: The Horizon of Ray-Ban Display Glasses**

Meta is poised to transform the wearable technology realm with the launch of two innovative features for its Ray-Ban Display glasses by 2026: EMG handwriting and support for Instagram Reels. These developments are set to enrich user engagement and entertainment choices, further establishing the glasses’ role in the smart eyewear industry.

**EMG Handwriting: A New Chapter of Interaction**

The EMG handwriting functionality leverages the Meta Neural Band, a cutting-edge wristband outfitted with EMG technology. This tech tracks motor neurons to identify gestures, enabling users to type by drawing or gesturing. Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth, emphasizes the promise of this feature, noting that it will quickly recognize each letter of the alphabet, signifying a significant change in human-computer interaction. Initial access to EMG handwriting is anticipated next month, with wider access to follow thereafter.

**Instagram Reels: Mobile Entertainment**

In light of user interest in video functionality, Meta aims to roll out support for Instagram Reels on the Ray-Ban Display glasses. This feature, currently in internal testing, will enable users to view Reels straight from their glasses, with a launch expected in the next few months. This addition is set to boost the entertainment appeal of the glasses, attracting a larger audience.

**The Path Forward**

Although the Ray-Ban Display glasses, offered at $799, target early adopters, the forthcoming features are expected to broaden their capabilities and market appeal. With a monocular display and restricted prescription support, the glasses are designed as a specialized product. Nevertheless, the launch of EMG handwriting and Instagram Reels support heralds a bright future for smart eyewear, paving the way for more sophisticated interactions and immersive experiences by 2026.

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Android Phones Launch Function to Mark ‘Urgent’ Calls

You can now designate calls as urgent in the newest beta version of Google Phone.

(Image credit: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)

Key points to understand

  • Android is finally introducing call context, allowing callers to indicate the reason for their call — including the option to mark it as urgent.
  • This feature, known as Expressive Calling, is currently available in the Phone by Google beta, marking a first for Android.
  • Urgent calls prominently display a message stating “It’s urgent!” alongside an animated siren and remain marked in the call log if missed.

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Disney Sends Cease-and-Desist Letter to Google Regarding Suspected AI Copyright Violation

Disney has adopted a strong position against Google’s exploitation of its copyrighted content for AI training purposes. The entertainment titan dispatched a cease-and-desist letter to Google, alleging that the company has extensively utilized Disney’s intellectual property to train AI models. This encompasses unauthorized images and videos showcasing characters from franchises such as Frozen, Star Wars, Marvel, and Moana. Disney’s legal representatives also pointed out that certain AI-generated content featured Google’s logo, which could mislead audiences into believing the content was officially endorsed by Disney.

In reaction, Google has started to eliminate AI-generated videos that showcase Disney characters. The company asserts that it utilizes publicly available data from the internet for training and emphasizes its cooperative initiatives with Disney, including the Content ID tool for rights management. Regardless of the legal confrontation, Disney is not completely distancing itself from AI. It recently secured a $1 billion agreement with OpenAI, facilitating the production of content featuring over 200 characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars, some of which will be available on Disney+.

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How Members of Google Play Points Can Buy the Pixel 10 Pro for $549

The Pixel 10 Pro has become more affordable than the base model for those who qualify for Google’s Play Points promotion.

Key details:
– Google is providing a $250 discount on the Pixel 10 Pro, reducing the price to $749 on the Google Store.
– Certain Play Points members are eligible for an additional $200 discount, allowing some customers to purchase the Pixel 10 Pro for $549.
– Users can verify their eligibility in the Play Store Perks section, with the promotion valid until December 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

If you’ve been considering acquiring a Google Pixel 10 Pro, now could be an opportune moment as Google is presenting significant discounts in addition to a new promotion for Google Play Points members that can be combined with the current store deals.

Presently, the Google Store has a promotion for the Pixel 10 Pro, where the device is available for $250 less than its standard retail price of $999. This translates to Google selling the Pixel 10 Pro for $749 without any additional offers.

However, as noted by 9to5Google, Google is also providing select Google Play Points members an extra $200 off the Pixel 10 Pro, which can be combined with the $250 discount.

This allows you to purchase the Pixel 10 Pro for only $549 by utilizing both discounts. That’s a significant $450 reduction from the standard launch price of the Pixel 10 Pro. Likewise, the Pixel 10 Pro XL can be acquired for as low as $699 after stacking both promotions.

It’s important to mention that these prices apply to the base models of both devices. Another aspect to remember is that you can trade in your smartphone in addition to these discounts, further decreasing your purchase price.

It should also be noted that this offer seems to be exclusive to specific Play Points users. Reports from Reddit indicate that the additional discount is available only to members with Gold tier status.

This could be the most attractive Pixel 10 Pro deal we’ve encountered.

That being said, you can quickly verify your eligibility by opening Google Play on your smartphone and navigating to the Perks tab to check if the offer applies to you. If you see the card for “Special offer from Google” and “Get $200 off select Pixel phones,” then you’re eligible for the additional discount.

If you are, simply tap Claim first and then Redeem to be directed to Google Store to select your desired model.

The offer is currently active, and per the terms and conditions, it concludes on December 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Therefore, if you’re looking to acquire a Pixel 10 Pro, now could be the optimal time.

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Concerns Emerge Even with the Creative Design of the Galaxy Z TriFold

Samsung is at last launching the Galaxy Z TriFold, although it might not be an unequivocal success.

On paper, the Galaxy Z TriFold appears to be nearly the ideal upgrade for anyone who has been utilizing foldable phones for years. It’s sleek, speedy, features a robust camera system, and boasts an even bigger display when unfolded.

When it was revealed, my enthusiasm naturally surged, as is typically the case with new foldable phone unveilings. However, since that moment, my eagerness has gradually faded to the point where I question whether I’ll actually attempt to purchase one at launch. (Who am I kidding, of course I will.)

Even if I do sacrifice one of my kidneys to afford the likely even pricier price tag, I’m somewhat uncertain about how long it will stay as my primary device. And honestly, I hold Harish responsible for this, as he just recently had some hands-on experience with the Galaxy Z TriFold.

Unusual design choice

In the lead-up to the announcement, something in my mind indicated that Samsung would choose a design reminiscent of the Huawei Mate XT. Rather than merely offering two screen sizes, the Mate XT allows you to keep one screen closed, resulting in a total of three screen configurations.

This introduces another level of adaptability, as there will likely be instances when I would prefer not to use a 10-inch tablet but would be fine with utilizing an 8-inch one. Regrettably, this doesn’t seem to be the direction Samsung opted for, and I’m genuinely intrigued as to the reasoning behind it.

DeX Mode should’ve been the standard

Another aspect that left me rather puzzled is that if Samsung intends to provide us with just two configuration options, why isn’t DeX Mode the standard layout when unfolding the phone? It’s the same question I’ve been posing for years whenever a new Galaxy Tab is launched, as Android isn’t particularly suited for larger displays without a significant amount of adjustments.

And it’s not as if you can just effortlessly install an alternative launcher, due to API constraints, resulting in a rather flawed experience. Technically, it can be done, but installing and using different launchers necessitates some tinkering with Bixby Routines or tools like Tasker. Instead, I will unfold the TriFold only to be met with a home screen filled with more wasted space than one could imagine.

To clarify, I’m not referring to the “old” DeX Mode, which was more akin to a desktop-like interface. I’m discussing the “New DeX,” revamped with One UI 8 and built upon Android 16 Desktop Mode.

Essentially, it’s a hybrid launcher that can resemble a more conventional desktop, with added advantages like widgets, something previously impossible. Now would have been an ideal moment to unveil such an alteration, especially with the introduction of a (mostly) new product category.

Previous generation

Originally, this was the part where I was going to express my discontent about a potential $3,000 phone lacking the latest flagship processor. To some degree, I still hold that view, and not merely because I have a penchant for the latest technology. But it reflects the same frustration I have towards Samsung and Google for not equipping their most expensive phones with flagship cameras.

Don’t misunderstand me, the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy is a highly capable processor that will certainly endure as long as those trifold screens do. Yet, I also believe it would have been incredibly impressive to see the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 leading the charge.

That said, pursuing that route would likely entail an even steeper price tag. Furthermore, the current DRAM shortage provides phone manufacturers with ample justification to impose higher costs, not merely to enhance profit margins.

Even steeper prices are on the horizon

It’s also plausible that the Galaxy Z TriFold will be among the initial phones to face such challenges, as we still lack clarity on its pricing in North America. Samsung has launched pre-orders for the TriFold in its home market of South Korea, with a listed price of KRW 3,590,400. When converted to USD, that amounts to approximately $2,400.

Which is rather surprising on its own, as it’s only $400 more than the base model Galaxy Z Fold 7. Considering that this will be a niche device within a niche category, that’s considerably better than I anticipated.

What’s astonishing is that Samsung reportedly sold out of the TriFold “in minutes,” but the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition did as well. So I’m uncertain whether it’s a reflection of enthusiasm for the phone, merely indicative of the brand loyalty Samsung has at home, or if the initial product run is just a limited one.

As I previously mentioned, I will likely still attempt to acquire the Z TriFold once it is officially launched here in the States. But I would be dishonest if I claimed that Huawei’s Mate XT might not end up being the superior execution of this new form factor.

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Challenges in Creating Efficient Wearable Solutions for Wheelchair Users

The technology isn’t functioning as intended for individuals in wheelchairs.

(Image credit: Jerry Hildenbrand / Android Central)
Android & Chill

(Image credit: Future)

As one of the internet’s most enduring tech columns, Android & Chill offers your weekly chat about Android, Google, and everything related to technology.

For approximately 20 years, I’ve intermittently relied on a wheelchair, and at present, I use one full-time. I am also committed to maintaining my health to ensure I can live long enough to not be a strain on my children. Like many others, I utilize a <a data-analytics-id="inline

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Experiencing Fitbit’s 2026 AI-Powered Health Coach and Improved App: A Move Towards My Ideal Fitness Solution

Fitbit is going through a significant transformation, and I’ve spent a month exploring the preview of the newly revamped app and personal health coach. The app is heavily focused on AI, which is not surprising in 2025, given that every company is exploring ways to incorporate AI into their offerings. While this may not resonate with consumers who are hesitant about AI, the redesigned app modernizes the Fitbit experience for Android users, making it feel more like an all-encompassing fitness guide compared to its standard version.

Currently, feature parity with the traditional Fitbit app is not there yet. However, the new features are quite intriguing and heighten my anticipation for the complete version of the app, which is slated to be released in early 2026.

For the time being, here’s my experience using the preview of Fitbit’s new personal health coach.

Upon transitioning to the new preview for the first time, I found that setting up the health coach took more steps than I anticipated. After a brief introduction and reviewing some notices about data usage, I was invited to engage in a conversation with the AI health coach. Unlike the previous app that simply had users input their goals, like daily steps and sleep, the health coach transforms this into a dialogue.

I discussed my aspirations and what I believed worked or didn’t for me. The coach’s responsiveness matched my expectations for a Gemini-powered AI, and it seemed genuinely invested in getting to know me and comprehending my objectives. I mentioned my desire to build muscle, lose body fat, and develop enough endurance to run my first 5K.

I was then prompted to engage in a separate conversation to establish a workout plan, although this was optional. The AI utilized what it learned from our earlier discussion to devise a plan aimed at helping me achieve my goals while considering specific details like my asthma (it recommended lighter runs as a result).

I was not in favor of the initial proposal it offered, as I wanted to integrate some of my existing activities, such as a daily morning run and instructor-led yoga, Pilates, and HIIT on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, respectively. The AI pointed out that I might be overexerting myself (which I did).

It put forth a fairly persuasive case that I could be hindering my progress by pushing too hard and sought to find a middle ground, allowing me to maintain my instructor-led classes while asking which days I preferred to run.

After a few minutes, a workout plan was produced that seemed appropriately aligned with my preferences, offering a pleasing blend of my instructor-led classes, running, and weightlifting.

The revamped Fitbit app adopts Google’s Material 3 Expressive design, featuring colorful icons and expansive cards across the Today, Fitness, and Sleep sections for easily understandable data.

The top of the Today tab includes customizable focus metrics for a quick view of your progress and new Weekly cardio load. Scrolling through the Today section displays cards that present a snapshot of essential metrics, like sleep, readiness, previous activities, and more, each accompanied by AI-generated insights.

The updated Sleep and Fitness tabs clarify the data, enabling you to observe trends and delve into each metric, such as enhanced sleep tracking and targets. The Health tab consolidates all that information to provide a more thorough understanding of long-term trends.

AI insights are integrated throughout the app, which might feel overwhelming to some, but I appreciate receiving this information without needing to request it. If you have inquiries about your metrics, tapping “Say more about my x” at the bottom of each card opens a conversation with the coach.

This method resembles Oura’s AI advisor, which is present throughout the app and ready to discuss your statistics with you. Google is certainly showcasing its AI capabilities by utilizing it to facilitate a better understanding of your body. However, I think inundating users with text-heavy cards could be off-putting, and it might be useful to present them as expandable cards, giving users the choice to view insights at their discretion.

Additionally, there is a floating Ask Coach button always accessible in the app, allowing you to start conversations that way. I appreciate how the AI comes across as genuinely helpful and adaptable. For instance, I was set to go out of town for a vacation and knew I couldn’t adhere to that week’s plan, so I informed the Coach, and it promptly canceled that week’s plan, resuming once I returned from my trip.

If I miss a day, the coach suggests consolidating workouts to keep me on track “without overdoing it,” demonstrating its flexibility.

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