Google’s ‘Disco’ Trial: An AI Browser Changing Tabs into Mini Applications
The trendiest feline in the neighborhood.
Essential information
- Google introduces “Disco,” a browser experiment powered by AI that utilizes Gemini 3 for its operations.
- Disco includes a standout feature known as GenTabs, which can gather information previously provided into a “tailored, interactive application.”
- According to Google, there are no restrictions on what GenTabs can generate as its custom applications, with examples including matching games, garden planning grids, and beyond.
Notice
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“Evaluating Google-Samsung AI Glasses versus Meta Ray-Bans: Three Major Benefits of Android XR”
Meta AI glasses have secured a prominent position in the smart glasses industry, excelling in both hardware advancements and brand recognition. Nevertheless, Google and Samsung are ready to contest Meta’s supremacy with their forthcoming AI glasses, utilizing their strengths in Gemini AI, photography, and wearable technology.
Google’s Android XR prototypes, which serve as the basis for Samsung’s 2026 AI glasses, showcase a refined and consumer-friendly experience. While Meta has succeeded in popularizing smart glasses, Google and Samsung are set to set themselves apart with distinct features and integrations.
A notable benefit for Google and Samsung is the incorporation of Gemini AI, which provides fluid app connectivity and interactivity. This enables users to aggregate data from multiple apps and utilize it across various platforms, enriching the overall user experience. Furthermore, Google’s prowess in computational photography is projected to compete with Meta’s capabilities, delivering superior image capture and post-processing.
The linkage between Android XR and Wear OS represents another domain where Google and Samsung might gain an advantage. By merging smartwatch gestures with smart glasses, users can experience a more seamless and connected interaction. This wearable collaboration could yield a competitive edge over Meta’s products.
In the end, the rivalry among Meta, Google, and Samsung is likely to propel innovation and enhance the smart glasses market. As each company capitalizes on its strengths, consumers can look forward to a diverse array of choices tailored to various preferences and applications.
Read MoreA Handbook for Capturing Calls on Your Pixel Smartphone
The Google Phone app has expanded call recording capabilities to more areas — here’s how to access it.
Google Pixel devices offer various call recording options, previously restricted to certain regions until November, when Google made basic call recording available globally. Now, Pixel users can record calls directly through the Google Phone app without relying on third-party applications.
This call recording feature is a simpler alternative to Call Notes, which is the AI-driven recording and summarization tool found on the Pixel 9 and later models. Announced in September, it is now being widely deployed for Google Pixel users around the world. Here’s what you need to know about recording calls on a Pixel device, covering availability, settings, and usage.
Requirements for using Pixel call recording
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Read MoreTop 5 Chromebook Offers from Walmart’s Holiday Promotion: Discounts on ASUS, Lenovo, HP, and More
I would recommend placing that order promptly if you’re aiming for delivery by Christmas!
Chromebooks have emerged as the must-have gift this holiday season, and fortunately, a plethora of deals exists to make these products affordable enough to hide beneath the tree. Walmart’s festive sale currently features a wide array of these discounted laptops, and I’ve curated a choice of my top picks below.
- Check out the comprehensive list of deals from Walmart’s festive sale
My TOP 5 Chromebook bargains from Walmart’s festive sale
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Read MoreWireless Charging Support for the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold
Would a foldable of this caliber facilitate wireless charging?
Indeed, the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold offers 15W wireless charging, thanks to compatibility with Samsung’s Fast Wireless Charging 2.0 protocol.
What to anticipate from the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold’s battery and charging specifications
Samsung recently unveiled the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold, and Android Central’s Harish Jonnalagadda has already had a chance for a brief hands-on experience with the TriFold. The massive foldable will provide substantial screen area, featuring 10 inches of stunning AMOLED in a well-folded design.
According to the official press release from Samsung, it can be confidently stated that the Galaxy Z TriFold will include a 5,600 mAh three-cell battery system. Samsung is complementing this ample battery with 45W fast wired charging via USB-C, and, naturally, 15W fast wireless charging as well. The TriFold will also feature Wireless PowerShare, enabling users to charge their earbuds or other smartphones with the TriFold in a pinch.
The additional specifications of the device sound quite impressive as well. Everything from the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor to the 200MP camera seems phenomenal. It’s unfortunate that support for magnetic Qi2 is currently absent, but hopefully, Samsung will address this in the next version of the TriFold.
For now, we are keen to see how the U.S. launch of the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold unfolds. The tri-foldable market is quite limited, and so far, only Huawei has astonished us with its magnificent, unbelievably thin Mate XT.
Our reviewer Harish Jonnalagadda described the Huawei Mate XT as “the most thrilling phone” he has used in a long time, meaning Samsung faces significant competition. Can Samsung, a well-established and reputable name in the foldables market, dethrone Huawei’s dominance? While Jonnalagadda’s hands-on experience was remarkably positive, it’s difficult to determine conclusively until the device has undergone long-term testing and in-depth reviews. We’ll need to wait until Q1 2026 to find out, as that is the tentative launch timeframe for the device.
Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold
A new chapter in foldables
Samsung is entering the foldable market with the Galaxy Z TriFold. Anticipated to debut in early 2026 in the U.S., the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold promises to deliver a massive 10-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X within a tri-foldable body, alongside a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, an astounding 200MP primary camera, a robust 5,600mAh battery, 45W fast wired charging, and 15W fast wireless charging.
Read MoreSpotify’s ‘Suggested Playlists’ Feature Boosts User Authority Over Algorithm
**Take Command of Your Musical Algorithm, and Prepare for 2026**
Spotify is transforming how users engage with their music libraries through a new feature called “Prompted Playlists.” This groundbreaking capability, currently being tested in beta for Premium users in New Zealand, enables users to take command of their musical algorithm by creating personalized playlists based on their own descriptions and preferences.
**What You Should Know**
– Spotify has introduced a beta for a Premium feature titled “Prompted Playlists,” giving users the power to manage their musical algorithm.
– Users can generate personalized playlists by articulating the kind of music they wish to listen to, akin to Discover Weekly.
– The feature takes advantage of users’ listening history, tracing back to their earliest Spotify experiences.
– The beta is presently accessible in New Zealand, with no declared plans for a U.S. rollout at this time.
Spotify’s latest feature allows users the liberty to design playlists that resonate with their individual interests and curiosities. By pressing “Create” in the app, users can specify the nature of the playlist they desire, whether they seek new genres like metalcore or are immersing themselves in a K-Pop phase.
The “Prompted Playlists” feature utilizes the user’s complete Spotify listening history to customize the playlist experience. Users can determine how frequently the playlist refreshes, opting for daily or weekly updates. Additionally, an “ideas” button presents suggestions for those who are uncertain about where to begin.
Once a playlist is created, Spotify provides a narrative for each song, enhancing the sense of dynamism and life within the playlist. This feature is aligned with Spotify’s broader vision to cultivate a more personalized and responsive music experience.
As 2025 nears its conclusion, Spotify Wrapped has unveiled new features such as “listening age” and “top albums,” alongside the familiar “top songs” and genre insights. The platform continues to innovate, striving to improve user control and interaction with their music.
Although the “Prompted Playlists” feature remains in beta, Spotify alludes to further advancements for 2026, promising an even more tailored experience for both listeners and artists. As users look forward to these modifications, they can envision a future where their musical preferences take center stage in their Spotify journey.
Read MoreDisney Allocates $1 Billion to OpenAI for Incorporating Mickey Mouse into Text Prompts
Disney’s Enormous Sora Investment Poses Threats to ‘Digital Chaos’
Key Points to Consider
– Disney is committing $1 billion to OpenAI for the integration of Sora into its framework beginning in 2026.
– Users will be able to produce short videos with more than 200 licensed characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.
– The agreement does not permit the use of real actor likenesses or voices, meaning digital replicas of stars cannot be created.
Recently, the entertainment sector regarded AI as a potential danger. However, Disney’s $1 billion investment in OpenAI signifies a change in the collaboration dynamics of studios with generative AI. From 2026 onward, OpenAI’s Sora text-to-video framework will be linked with Disney’s proprietary assets. Users can craft short films featuring over 200 characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars, as stated in a joint announcement.
This encompasses characters like Iron Man, Captain America, The Mandalorian, and Rey. Iconic animated characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie, Simba, and Baymax will also be included. Users can utilize costumes, props, and vehicles to create personalized clips simply by entering a prompt.
Severe Restrictions Are in Place
Disney restricts the use to animated, masked, and creature characters exclusively. This arrangement excludes actor likenesses and vocal performances, disallowing the generation of digital representations of stars such as Robert Downey Jr. or Mark Hamill.
Though the technology is remarkable, there are concerns that making these characters widely accessible dilutes Disney’s narrative quality. Despite these worries, Disney intends to handpick specific fan-generated videos for streaming on Disney Plus, which could enhance fan interaction or impact the platform’s reputation.
Additionally, Disney plans to leverage OpenAI’s tools internally, aiming to become a significant consumer by employing ChatGPT for the creation of new products and experiences. The launch is set for early 2026. Whether this initiative results in a new chapter of creativity or an inundation of digital clutter is yet to be determined.
Read MoreSatechi’s Latest Magnetic 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Includes HDMI, USB-A, SD/MicroSD Reader, 100W USB PD Charging, and Gigabit Ethernet
This USB-C hub provides all the connections you require without occupying too much space.
Satechi is well-known; the company creates some of the finest charging and general use gadgets, and I utilize many of its items. The company is expanding into travel-oriented products and recently launched the FindAll trackers. Now, it is supplementing its OntheGo series with a USB-C hub; the hub features a total of seven ports and includes a built-in USB-C cable. It is <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FSatechi-OntheGoTM-Magnetic-Multiport-Ethernet%2Fdp%2FB0FWR19DW7%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-gb-1265021541465346395-20" data-url="https://www.amazon.com/Satechi-OntheGoTM-Magnetic-Multiport-Ethernet/dp/B0FWR19DW7" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" rel="sponsored noopener" data-hl-processed="hawklinks" data-google-interstitial="false" data-placeholder-url="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FSatechi-OntheGoTM-Magnetic-Multiport-Ethernet%2Fdp%2FB0FWR19DW7%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20"
Read MoreAYANEO Pocket PLAY Teaser Trailer Unveiled, Sparking Further Questions
Fingers crossed we won’t have to wait until 2027 for AYANEO’s inaugural phone.
What you need to know:
– Following months of anticipation, the AYANEO Pocket PLAY was officially unveiled in a teaser video.
– This marks AYANEO’s first foray into the smartphone market, following years of concentrating on Android and Windows gaming handhelds.
– The phone boasts a sliding design, reminiscent of the Sony Xperia Play, with controls accessible after sliding the screen upwards.
– While a Kickstarter campaign landing page is active, there are currently no specifics regarding specifications, pricing, or availability.
In early August, AYANEO, creator of some of the finest Android gaming handhelds, began teasing the launch of its first smartphone. Late last night, further details surfaced, as the AYANEO Pocket PLAY was showcased in the teaser video below.
This seeks to be the first phone with an integrated gamepad in at least a decade, as Sony held the patent that officially expires in early 2025. Since that time, we’ve only seen one brand release something even remotely similar to the Xperia Play, with the Anbernic RG Slide arriving in June 2025.
The teaser trailer manages to effectively highlight the phone from all perspectives, although it refrains from offering too many specifics. Consequently, AYANEO has yet to disclose any information about specifications, pricing, or availability.
That said, there are no mysteries regarding the overall design, as the Pocket PLAY appears to consist of a mix of aluminum and glass. One can only wish some plastic is included somewhere, otherwise, this is going to be quite a hefty smartphone.
The screen slides upwards, locking into a flat orientation, which may disappoint those who might have preferred an angled design. Still, after moving the screen aside, we are welcomed with a complete set of gamepad controls.
These exceed the typical ABXY+D-pad layout, as there are two “Smart Dual-Mode Touchpads.” This simply means that each touchpad can function as either a virtual joystick or a trackpad. This is likely similar to the AYANEO Pocket DMG, which features one physical joystick, and a touchpad area that acts as the second joystick.
From there, the Pocket PLAY provides an assortment of other buttons, including the standard Start+Select combination, along with a dedicated AYANEO button. However, there are a few buttons on the front, particularly the red one, whose function remains unclear.
Moving beyond the gaming features, it’s quite likely you won’t see the Pocket PLAY compared to the Galaxy S26 Ultra or iPhone 17 Pro once it launches. At least, not in terms of camera quality. On the back of the phone, there are three cutouts, with the top two containing the sensors and the bottom one designated for the flash.
Even with AYANEO attempting to evoke the nostalgia of a modern Sony Xperia Play, the company faces several challenges. For starters, we remain unaware of the device’s actual price, nor do we know if AYANEO will target global distribution. If that’s the case, it will need to obtain FCC certification for U.S. sales, which is already a significant task, especially for a start-up.
Then there’s the question of when the Pocket PLAY will actually hit the market. Recent launches, such as the Pocket DS and KONKR Pocket FIT, suggest that AYANEO might be having difficulty keeping up with production. Not to mention that they keep unveiling new devices on what seems like a monthly basis.
Nonetheless, when the AYANEO Pocket PLAY is finally released, there’s a strong chance I’ll be looking to get one. Speaking of which, there’s an active Kickstarter campaign landing page, which already has more than 1,000 “followers.” Now, it’s just a matter of playing the waiting game.
A true gaming phone
After the Xperia Play, I never expected to see another Android gaming phone with a sliding mechanism being introduced. Yet, that’s precisely what AYANEO aims to accomplish with the Pocket PLAY, which is quite ambitious for the company’s first smartphone.
Read MoreEpic Games’ Fortnite Makes a Comeback on the Play Store as a Successful Battle Royale Game
Guess who has made a comeback.
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Key information
- Epic Games’ hit battle royale, Fortnite, has made its way back to the Google Play Store after being removed during its antitrust dispute with the platform.
- Tim Sweeney, the founder and CEO of Epic, shared the news of the game’s return on X earlier today (Dec 11), along with the official Fortnite account.
- The Epic v Google case focused on the anticompetitive actions of the Play Store dating back to 2020, culminating in a victory for Epic in August.
Disclaimer
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