Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

“Google Maps Is Missing an Essential Functionality for Some Users”

Users are noticing that the well-liked in-app music controls have disappeared in the most recent update of Google Maps.

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Essential information

  • In-app music playback controls have been eliminated from Google Maps for certain Android users.
  • The ability to manage streaming platforms such as YouTube Music and Spotify is not visible in the current version of the application.
  • It remains uncertain whether this is a glitch or a deliberate change, as the feature is still present in the iOS version.

It is well known that Google Maps is among the top navigation applications available on both Android and iOS devices, facilitating users in accessing their preferred music streaming services like YouTube Music and Spotify conveniently while on the move. The useful controls enabled users to pause, play, skip tracks, or return to previous songs. Having these music playback controls during navigation has been a beneficial feature of Maps, which has unexpectedly disappeared with the new update.

9to5Google has now discovered that the helpful controls, typically located in the Navigation settings of the Maps app, appear to have been removed, together with the option to “Show media playback controls.”

Moreover, the setting to choose the music streaming service is absent from the latest update of the Google Maps app. This issue seems to affect both the current v25.28 version and the beta 25.29 version. I was unable to find the feature, as I also checked on

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Google Unveils ‘Gemini Drops’ – A Cutting-Edge Approach for AI Enhancements

The July update introduces advanced AI features for WearOS, Workspace, and Search.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google is launching a new Planner Gem that syncs with your Google applications (such as Gmail, Calendar, and Drive) to boost productivity.
  • Gemini has made its debut on Wear OS, bringing its full range of functionalities directly to your wrist.
  • This update also includes a feature known as “Power calling,” where Gemini can make calls to local services like pet groomers or dry cleaners to verify pricing and availability.
  • Google Search is receiving an AI enhancement — by circling a word, image, or phrase, Gemini will provide more than just search results with AI Mode.

Google is unveiling a new initiative with its AI updates, termed “Gemini drops,” which is akin to its monthly feature releases but will specifically center on Google’s AI functionalities.

In this July drop, Google is rolling out tools aimed at enhancing users’ productivity, letting Gemini take over mundane tasks to save time. Additionally, there are improvements to Google Search and Circle for enhanced searching, and Gemini is at last available on Wear OS. While most features are largely free, some are reserved for AI Pro and AI Ultra users.

To break it down, Gemini is designed to simplify user productivity. Google has introduced a new customizable “Gem” within Gemini that effortlessly integrates with Google’s offerings like Gmail, Calendar, Drive, etc., highlighting priorities by providing a complete overview of your week, summarizing your day, among other capabilities. This feature can be located in the Gems tab under “Premade by Google.”

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Google’s Pixel 10 Teaser Unveils Next-Generation Series Design on Official Store

Presenting our inaugural (official) sneak peek at the Pixel 10.

(Image credit: Google)

Key information

  • The official Google store has begun teasing the Pixel 10 series, revealing the design of the series in a promotional video.
  • This series will maintain a design akin to the Pixel 9, featuring a prominent camera bump, flat edges, and rounded corners.
  • Google reiterates that the event to launch the phones will take place on August 20, alongside other anticipated products such as “watches, buds, and more.”
  • Speculations suggest that the base Pixel 10 might feature a triple camera setup instead of a dual one, hinting at the possibility of a telephoto lens.

Google is kicking off the week with an official teaser for its forthcoming Pixel series after affirming its next event.

This afternoon (July 21), the Google Store refreshed its header to promote the forthcoming Pixel 10 series in August. The company once again confirms that its Made by Google event to unveil the next Pixel lineup will be held on August 20. The highlight of this teaser is Google’s official preview of the Pixel 10’s design.

quite a prominent camera bump, flat edges, and rounded corners.

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Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3 Contains Google’s Most Recent Bug Corrections

The latest Android 16 QPR1 Beta is currently being distributed to compatible Pixel phones, concentrating mainly on bug resolutions along with a few fresh features. This update, marked by build number BP31.250610.004, incorporates the July 2025 security patch and is accessible for Pixel 6 and later models. Users can find the update in their device settings under System updates.

Notable enhancements in this version consist of a new keyboard magnifier located in the Accessibility settings, which improves typing visibility by magnifying letters, emojis, and numbers. Furthermore, new taskbar shortcuts have been added, permitting users to pin and unpin applications in Desktop Mode.

The update resolves various issues, including RTOS task list corruption that leads to restarts, incomplete launcher displays, problems with notification visibility, and media player operation in the notification pulldown. Additional corrections address complete phone restarts due to class loader problems, kernel-related restarts, camera initiation difficulties, absent status bar icon padding, and notification shade message folding glitches.

Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3 is accessible for an array of devices, stretching from Pixel 6 to the Pixel 9 series, encompassing the Fold and Tablet. Developers can also evaluate it using the Android Emulator.

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In-Depth Examination of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8: Speculations, Disclosures, and Expected Characteristics

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 has just arrived, so let’s explore what the Galaxy Z Flip 8 might offer.

Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Flip 7 is now available, prompting us to turn our attention to the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 8. Although we don’t expect the device for another year, it’s never too soon to ponder what could be on the horizon. After all, Samsung has probably already initiated development on its forthcoming flip phone.

Based on our limited experience with the Galaxy Z Flip 7, it’s quite apparent where its advantages and drawbacks exist. This insight allows us to speculate on the areas where we might see advancements with the Galaxy Z Flip 8, as well as aspects where Samsung may opt to make no changes whatsoever.

What should we anticipate from the Galaxy Z Flip 8, and what features do we wish to see? Let’s delve into it.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8: Price and release date

Samsung has only just released the Galaxy Z Flip 7 in early July, which implies we likely won’t see the Galaxy Z Flip 8 until next July. Although past summer Unpacked events have occurred in August, Samsung appears committed to making July the new launch month for its foldable devices. Therefore, unless there are alterations, we can anticipate a similar timeline for 2026.

Regarding pricing, there’s no indication that Samsung will raise the price of the Galaxy Z Flip 8. We did witness a $100 hike with the Galaxy Z Flip 6, but the Flip 7 maintained its price despite the upgraded chip and larger cover display.

Meanwhile, if Samsung continues introducing new Galaxy Z Flip FE models, we hope they will consider reducing the price to something comparable to the Razr 2025, for instance.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8: Specs

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Comparison of Nothing Phone 3 and Phone 2: Analyzing the Price and Rationale Behind the Upgrade

**A Fresh Dot Matrix Experience or the Timeless Glyph Interface: Which Do You Favor?**

In the continuously changing landscape of smartphones, Nothing has carved out a niche with its singular design philosophy and cutting-edge features. The discussion surrounding the new dot matrix experience of the Nothing Phone 3 versus the traditional Glyph interface of the Nothing Phone 2 has intrigued tech aficionados. Let’s explore the specifics of these two options to assist you in determining which aligns with your taste.

**Nothing Phone 3: A New Era**

The Nothing Phone 3 signifies a daring advance for the brand, launching a flagship device with a notable design. This phone showcases a dot matrix display on the back, providing a novel perspective on smartphone aesthetics. Although it lacks a premium processor, it still offers a satisfactory user experience with its uniquely positioned rear camera and rapid charging features. Nonetheless, its mid-range Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor and the absence of LTPO support may discourage some prospective buyers.

**Pros:**
– Distinctive smartphone design featuring a unique rear camera layout.
– LED dot matrix display on the backside.
– Impressive battery longevity and rapid charging.

**Cons:**
– Equipped with a mid-tier Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor.
– Launches with Android 15 pre-installed.
– Missing LTPO support.
– Pricy.

**Nothing Phone 2: A Classic, but Still Relevant**

Conversely, the Nothing Phone 2 is valued for its traditional Glyph interface, utilizing light strips on the back for notifications and alerts. Even after two years, it still stands out as a stylish and robust device. The Phone 2’s primary camera sensor and excellent display add to its lasting allure. However, its Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor is becoming dated, and locating this model at a fair price in 2025 might prove to be difficult.

**Pros:**
– Glyph interface featuring light strips on the back.
– Capable 50MP main camera sensor.
– Strong display with a high PWM rate.

**Cons:**
– Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor is aging.
– Limited additional cameras.
– Challenging to find at reasonable prices in 2025.

**Pricing and Accessibility**

The Nothing Phone 3 is reachable globally, with the starting price at $799 for the 12GB/256GB variant. It comes in a choice of white and black color options, both showcasing the customizable dot matrix display. In contrast, the Nothing Phone 2, which debuted in 2023, started at $599 for the 8GB/128GB version. However, its availability is restricted, and finding new units at affordable prices can be tough.

**Design and Screen**

The Nothing Phone 3 moves away from the Glyph interface, favoring a dot matrix grid that presents greater flexibility. This innovative design facilitates the display of battery life and other interactive features. The Phone 3 is slightly smaller than its predecessor, featuring a 6.67-inch OLED display, whereas the Phone 2 boasts a 6.7-inch OLED panel. Both devices provide 120Hz refresh rates and comparable brightness levels.

**Hardware and Specifications**

While the Nothing Phone 3 aims to position itself as a flagship, it falls short regarding internal components. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, which, despite being current, does not match the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Elite found in leading Android phones. The Phone 3 offers higher base RAM and storage options compared to the Phone 2, with configurations reaching up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

**Cameras**

The Nothing Phone 3 features four 50MP camera sensors, including three on the rear and one on the front. Its primary OmniVision OV50H lens manages various lighting situations effectively. The Phone 2, equipped with two rear cameras, features a 50MP Sony main sensor alongside a Samsung JN1 wide-angle lens.

**Which Should You Purchase?**

The Nothing Phone 3 presents a unique design and features, yet its elevated price tag may not warrant the hardware shortcomings. If you appreciate standing out and enjoy the dot matrix display, the Phone 3 could be the right fit for you. Conversely, if you already possess a Nothing Phone 2 that meets your requirements, an upgrade may not be essential. The Phone 2 is still a strong option, although its availability and pricing in 2025 might present some challenges.

In summary, the decision between the new dot matrix experience and the classic Glyph interface hinges on your preferences. Whether you lean towards innovation or nostalgia, Nothing continues to provide captivating choices for smartphone enthusiasts.

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Comparison of Garmin Forerunner 970 and Forerunner 570: Identifying the Best Value Running Timepiece

Garmin’s Forerunner 970 stands as the priciest running watch from the brand to date, but should you consider the 570 instead?

Garmin has updated its mid-tier and premium running watches, introducing the enhanced Forerunner 570 and 970, respectively. Although both smartwatches aim to assist you in improving your running performance, they cater to different price ranges. The Forerunner 970, priced at $750, brings the Forerunner’s capabilities closer to Garmin’s top-tier smartwatches. Conversely, the Forerunner 570 targets the midrange market.

Both the Garmin Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 exhibit some limitations. The Forerunner 570 misses out on certain features we often expect at the $550 price bracket, such as ECG capability. Meanwhile, the Forerunner 970 is the most adaptable Forerunner ever produced, albeit at a premium cost.

If you’re seeking to determine whether your requirements align better with the Forerunner 570 or Forerunner 970, this comparison will be beneficial.

Garmin Forerunner 970 vs. Forerunner 570: Design and display

Garmin’s Forerunner series emphasizes practicality, which is evident in the design. Both the Forerunner 970 and 570 come equipped with hardware buttons that simplify tracking laps and starting/stopping workouts seamlessly. They feature a somewhat bold design, typically appreciated by runners. Each is available in distinctive color combinations to highlight a sporty aesthetic, or you can choose black for a more understated look.

However, the Forerunner 970’s polymer casing does not exude the highest level of premium feel, a measure taken to maintain a lightweight structure. It does incorporate a titanium bezel and metal buttons for enhanced durability. Additionally, there’s a colored metal accent piece on the side of the Forerunner, underscoring the runner-first philosophy of this device. Its weight is 56 grams, including the strap.

The Forerunner 970 is offered in a single 47mm case size, while the Forerunner 570 provides more options with both 42mm and 47mm sizes available. It also features a polymer case, but opts for a lighter and less premium aluminum bezel. The 570 employs Corning Gorilla Glass 3 on the front, unlike the sapphire glass used in the 970.

In general, the Forerunner 570 may feel a bit less upscale than the Forerunner 970. However, both models share significant design similarities.

Garmin enhanced the display on the Forerunner 970, doubling its maximum brightness. This smartwatch boasts a 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a resolution of 454×454. The switch to AMOLED improves clarity and color while maintaining brightness, and without impacting battery life adversely.

In contrast, the Forerunner 570 comes with either a 1.2-inch or 1.4-inch display, depending on the size chosen. It features an AMOLED panel as well, but it doesn’t last as long as the Forerunner 970. Nevertheless, both smartwatches provide sufficient brightness for outdoor activities.

Garmin Forerunner 970 vs. Forerunner 570: Hardware and specs

There are minor variances between the Forerunner 970 and 570 concerning hardware. Both watches utilize the Garmin Elevate v5 heart rate sensor, the latest and most precise iteration. However, the 970 enhances this feature by adding ECG support and a skin temperature sensor. Both the Forerunner 970 and 570 include a blood-oxygen sensor, accelerometer, altimeter, compass, and gyroscope.

The higher-priced 970 provides four times the storage capacity, featuring 32GB of onboard memory. In contrast, the 570 only offers 8GB for music and workout files. Furthermore, the 970 supports additional GPS bands, with both watches enabling multi-band GPS.

Regarding battery life, the Forerunner 970 excels. It can last up to 15 days in smartwatch mode and 23 hours while utilizing SatIQ GPS. The 42mm Forerunner 570 caps at 10 days in smartwatch mode, while the larger, 47mm model adds just one extra day. Both models surpass typical smartwatches in longevity but fall short of other Garmin offerings.

To conclude, the Forerunner 970 includes a dedicated flashlight for your runs, best used in emergencies rather than as a continuous lighting solution. However, the 570 does not feature a flashlight at all—its screen can only illuminate as a temporary alternative.

Garmin Forerunner 970 vs. Forerunner 570: Fitness and health

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Comparison between Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Main Distinctions Clarified

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic share numerous similarities, complicating the choice between them.

A Samsung Galaxy smartwatch is the ideal partner for a Samsung Galaxy smartphone. If you’re seeking a premium option, the comparison centers on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 2025 is a marginally enhanced iteration of Samsung’s initial rugged smartwatch introduced in the summer of 2024, while the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic represents the larger, top-tier model in the newly established standard lineup. The critical question is: does the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 justify the additional expense? Let’s investigate.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Design and durability

First, let’s examine the aesthetics. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 is the most substantial Samsung Galaxy smartwatch, being bulkier than the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. However, it is also slightly lighter. Both models feature three buttons, including a Quick Button for quick access to commonly used functions.

The key distinction is that the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has a digital-only bezel, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic includes a rotating bezel. Given that Andrew Myrick mentions in his early Galaxy Watch 8 hands-on that the rotating bezel is his preferred method for interacting with a smartwatch, this aspect will be significant for many users like him.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 is available in four titanium colors: Silver, Gray, White, and a new Blue. It features a substantial 1.5-inch AMOLED display with a squircle design capable of achieving peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits. The display is crafted from sapphire crystal, and the watch itself boasts remarkable durability, complying with IP68 and an impressive 10ATM ratings alongside MIL-STD-810H standards for toughness.

Regarding battery performance, it houses a 590mAh battery, identical to the previous generation, which should sustain around four days in power-saving mode and about two days with frequent workout tracking, among other usages.

In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic comes in basic Black or White, though various band styles (sport, fabric, or hybrid alongside third-party selections) can enhance its look. It features a slim and padded design carried over from the original Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.

This squircle design modification is quite apparent, and Myrick observes that it is something that grew on him after he adjusted to it with last year’s Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra after some time of use. As previously noted, the significant differentiator alongside the Dynamic Lug System is the presence of a practical rotating bezel on this model.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic has a smaller 1.34-inch Super AMOLED sapphire crystal display with the same peak brightness of 3,000 nits. It also possesses both IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certification, although its water resistance is not as strong for deep diving, rated at “only” 5ATM.

The battery capacity is also reduced at 445mAh, and while Samsung hasn’t specified its estimated battery life, charging it at least every day or every other day is reasonable if compared to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Classic, which features a slightly smaller battery.

Both watches support LTE options, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC for contactless payments. Even though the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 carries a higher price tag, trade-in options for older model Samsung Galaxy Watches (excluding the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024 at the time of writing) may provide some savings.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 vs. Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Specs

Now let’s compare these two smartwatches regarding their fundamental specifications.

| Category | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 | Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic |
|———-|——————————–|——————————–|
| Compatibility | Android 11.0 or higher | Android 11.0 or higher |
| OS | Wear OS 6 (powered by Samsung) + Samsung One UI 6 | Wear OS 6 (powered by Samsung) + Samsung One UI 6 |
| Colors | Titanium Silver, Gray, White, Blue | Titanium Black, White |
| Swappable Band | Yes | Yes |
| Battery | 590mAh | 445mAh |
| Battery Life | Approx. 4 days in power-saving mode, up to 2 days with heavier use | Approx. up to 2 days |
| App | Samsung Health | Samsung Health |
| Heart Rate Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Stress Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Blood Oxygen | Yes | Yes |
| GPS | Yes (built-in) | Yes (built-in) |
| Sleep

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“Nothing’s Essential Space Boosts Functionality with Google Calendar Integration and Extra Features”

Users of the Nothing Phone can greatly boost their productivity with the recent updates to Essential Space. This AI-driven application, which was first introduced alongside the Phone 3a and 3a Pro, now features enhancements that further increase its functionality.

Among the key updates is the integration with Google Calendar, enabling users to seamlessly sync their to-do lists into their calendar. This capability can be activated in the Essential Space settings by modifying the required permission configurations.

Furthermore, the app now includes an “Editable Memory” function, which utilizes AI to understand user preferences, offering more tailored reviews and summaries. The Essential Recorder has also been upgraded, featuring editable AI-generated summaries and the option to share recorded moments in various formats, including images, PDFs, or Markdown.

These improvements are presently accessible for Nothing Phone 3 users, with the company focusing on enhancing picture quality for the device’s display.

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