Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Revealed Information Indicates Google Nest Cameras Will Include 2K HDR Video and Gemini Enhancements

The much-awaited Nest product range could be unveiled “very soon.”

(Image credit: Chris Wedel/Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google is reportedly developing an entirely revamped Nest lineup featuring four new devices: an indoor and outdoor camera, a doorbell, and a smart speaker.
  • The indoor camera is anticipated to feature enhancements including 2K resolution, 6x zoom, and will be available in three color options.
  • The Nest outdoor camera is expected to have the same capabilities as the indoor version and will supposedly be powered by Gemini.
  • The new Nest Doorbell is slated for similar upgrades to the cameras and may introduce a feature called “Daily Summaries.”

A major leak has indicated that Google could be on the verge of refreshing its Nest lineup shortly. This update is overdue, given that the tech company released its second-generation products back in 2021.

As reported by Android Headlines, Google plans to introduce four new Nest devices, which consist of an Indoor and Outdoor Nest camera, a Nest Doorbell, and a smart home speaker that was discreetly showcased during this year’s Made by Google event. Each of these products is expected to offer notable improvements compared to their forerunners.

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Amazon’s Labor Day Sale Features a 27% Price Reduction on Leading Portable Storage Device

Compact, portable SSD suitable for students, professionals, and gamers alike.

(Image credit: Samsung)

Although storage peripherals are better than ever, they can also be expensive unless you score an excellent deal on an external hard drive. Fortunately, Amazon has introduced a $30 price cut on the Samsung T7, a portable, 1TB solid-state drive that provides ample space for most students, professionals, and gamers.

The T7 SSD boasts transfer speeds reaching up to 1,050MB per second, which is nearly twice the speed of Samsung’s previous T5 model. This feature makes it an ideal choice for gaming or demanding computer tasks. It is also compatible with tablets and smartphones through its USB-A or USB-C cables and can be utilized to directly save photos or video footage captured on a smartphone or other device.

Samsung T7 Portable SSD (1TB): $109.99 $79.99 at Amazon

The latest discount on Amazon’s external drive includes a $30 reduction on the 1TB Samsung T7 SSD, a fast portable storage option perfect for gaming or working while traveling. It delivers file transfer speeds up to 1,050MB per second, all through simple connectivity with one of its two USB cables. It’s notable that this offer is for the Titan Grey variant of the SSD, although buyers can also find discounts on the 2TB and 4TB versions.

✅Recommended if: you’re in search of a compact solid-state drive below $100; you desire a strong mix of portability and ample storage; you have devices featuring USB-C or USB-A ports and seek external storage solutions.

❌Skip this deal if: you require more than 4TB of storage; you’re looking for an alternative color; you need a device with fall protection that exceeds 6 feet.

The T7 weighs a mere 2.5 ounces and showcases a slim, yet robust design. It fits easily into a pocket, backpack, or even some laptop and device cases.

This specific offer is for the Titan Grey variant of the SSD in the 1TB capacity. However, Amazon is also providing discounts on the 2TB and 4TB models if you’re looking to upgrade.

The Samsung T7 is a popular SSD within the industry, particularly for its compact design and rapid transfer speeds. It weighs only 2.5 ounces and measures 0.3 inches thick, 3.3 inches long, and 2.2 inches wide, all while delivering transfer speeds of up to 1,050 MB per second.

<pFor these reasons and more, the T7 is regarded as the top SSD for Nvidia Shield TV Pro, equipped with USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology and broad compatibility for computers, smartphones, tablets, and more. Its sturdy construction also provides fall protection up to 6 feet, making it an ideal choice for those on the move.

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Google Emphasizes AI with Unveiling of Pixel 11 Design; No Intentions for Pixel Flip or Tablets

Without any intentions to unveil the upcoming Pixel Tablet, a flip phone, or a smart ring.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Interpretations from Google’s high-ranking officials revealed that significant design modifications occur approximately every two to three years. The firm is already in the process of envisioning new designs for the Pixel models set to launch in 2026 and 2027.
  • Google is concentrating heavily on software and artificial intelligence as the leading force of innovation, instead of aesthetic design transformations.
  • The technology powerhouse asserts that the future of its hardware offerings lies in gadgets such as XR Glasses and foldable devices, which will be seamlessly integrated with artificial intelligence.
  • The Vice President of devices and services at Google has confirmed that the company is not actively developing a flip phone or a smart ring at this time.
  • Moreover, Google has “paused” any developments on forthcoming tablets (specifically Pixel Tablet 2) until they can establish a clear vision for the product.

Last week, Google concluded its yearly Pixel launch event, and while there was no significant alteration in the design of the phones, Rick Osterloh, Google’s Senior VP of Devices and Services, noted that this shouldn’t be surprising, considering the Pixel’s design does not undergo drastic changes every single year.

This year celebrates a decade since the first Pixel was introduced, and although we anticipated seeing a design evolution, we were met with merely a few fresh colors and phones that look quite similar. In an extensive interview with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2025-08-21/google-pixel-10-future-of-pixel-google-glasses-interview-with-rick-osterloh" data-url="https://www.bloomberg

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Google’s Messages Beta Launches QR Code Security for Conversations

This was noticed towards the end of last year, and it’s a development that could enhance the security of your chats.

What you need to know:
– A report indicates that a new Google Messages beta has introduced the company’s QR code-based verification keys on Android devices.
– The Android System Key Verifier serves as the foundation for this, allowing users to scan a QR code on each other’s devices to confirm that their texts remain private between them.
– This capability was previously mentioned in November 2024 and was described as a way to further secure users’ RCS chats, ensuring that their messages are exclusive to them and their contacts.

Google has been reportedly developing a fresh approach for users to protect their RCS chats, and it seems that progress is emerging in beta.

A post from 9to5Google emphasizes the presence of a new Google Messages beta, which purportedly includes the company’s latest QR code-based key verification feature. While the backbone of this is the Android System Key Verifier, 9to5 highlights that beta testers should locate a “Security & Privacy” sub-menu when selecting “verify encryption” within one of their RCS messaging threads.

While attempting verification, the post mentions that users should see a pop-up for “verify keys for this contact,” which literally contains the key to enhanced RCS chat security. A prominent “Your QR Code” button is positioned in the middle of this sub-menu, indicating which app/phone number the code will help verify and secure. The QR code functions reciprocally, requiring users to have their contacts scan their code and vice versa.

Alternatively, users can compare verification codes, which is essentially the sole function you’d currently discover in the Messages app if you were to verify chats.

The publication’s testing has also revealed that the Android System Key Verifier will initiate the scanning process, complete with a colorful viewfinder.

Ensure it’s the right individual

We initially learned about Google allegedly developing an enhanced method for verifying your RCS chats back in November. The Android System Key Verifier acts as the driving force behind this, appearing as an app (that should already exist on your device) that can secure your RCS chats with encryption keys. As noted by 9to5, Google’s explanation regarding these keys states that they “help ensure only you and your contact can read the RCS messages you send each other.”

These keys are then exchanged through the QR codes that you and your friend or family member scan on each other’s phones.

Last fall, it was speculated that these QR codes assist in identifying one another, guaranteeing that only you and the person you are texting have access to those messages. It was also mentioned that this feature would only function on devices operating on Android 10 or newer. Furthermore, the genuine possibility of someone acquiring a new phone was highlighted.

In such an event, it is likely that the verification keys would no longer match, requiring users to repeat the QR code scanning procedure. Since this feature has just been identified in beta, we may be a few months away from its official release. The Android 16’s QPR2 Beta 1 has just been issued; perhaps we can anticipate this Messages feature to launch around then, likely toward December.

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Top 10 Offers on Smartphones, Tablets, Wearables, and Android Technology in Best Buy’s Labor Day Promotion

**Significant Offers for Android Users, This Week Only**

The Labor Day promotions are here, and Best Buy is consistently offering some of the finest Android bargains ahead of Black Friday. Whether you’re in search of a reduced smartphone, fitness tracker, or an affordable Chromebook for students, continue reading for my top deals from the sale.

I’m referring to Android offers such as **$200 off the latest Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE**, or this unexpected deal that slashes **over 50% off this bundle** that includes an Acer Chromebook 315 *and* a protective sleeve. And naturally, there are still numerous Google Pixel 10 preorder offers at Best Buy in the coming days.

With years of experience in covering sales like this, if you’re seeking the best Android deals from Best Buy’s Labor Day sale, you’ve come to the right spot. Continue reading for all of my top 10 selections currently available.

### Labor Day Offers for Android 2025 – Quick Links

– **Best Buy’s Labor Day promotion:** [view the complete list of deals](https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/1943169/614286/10014?subId1=ac-us-6351839392905938060&sharedId=ac-us&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Felectronics%2Fsale-page%2Fpcmcat185700050011.c)
– **Phones:** [huge discounts on Samsung foldables, Google Pixel, and more](https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/1943169/614286/10014?subId1=ac-us-2184819705654863392&sharedId=ac-us&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fbest-buy-sales-event%2Fcell-phones-accessories-sales-event%2Fpcmcat1752522354177.c)
– **Tablets:** [savings on Samsung Galaxy Tab, Kindle e-readers](https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/1943169/614286/10014?subId1=ac-us-9811445383468362061&sharedId=ac-us&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fbest-buy-sales-event%2Ftablets-e-readers-accessories-sales-event%2Fpcmcat1752524343081.c)
– **Wearables:** [Galaxy Watch clearance offers, Garmin price reductions](https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/1943169/614286/10014?subId1=ac-us-1023751566387774091&sharedId=ac-us&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fbest-buy-sales-event%2Fwearable-technology-sales-event%2Fpcmcat1752524226211.c)
– **Audio:** [save significant amounts on earbuds and headphones by Sony, Samsung](https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/1943169/614286/10014?subId1=ac-us-9285859655617206969&sharedId=ac-us&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fbest-buy-sales-event%2Fheadphones-sales-event%2Fpcmcat1752520633566.c)
– **Chromebooks:**

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Keen to Discover: Camera Mentor – The Leading AI Attribute of Google Pixel 10

I don’t require AI to take the place of human pastimes and talents, but perhaps this feature won’t do so.

The Google Pixel 10 series could represent the inaugural range of genuine AI smartphones. Other manufacturers have attempted to assert this title previously, yet they have not succeeded in providing a next-level experience. I have faith that the Google Pixel 10 will alter that narrative.

With the multimodal Gemini Live, a Tensor G5 processor capable of operating on-device AI models, and a Magic Cue feature that offers assistance without the user having to request it, the Pixel 10 stands as the most comprehensive AI smartphone thus far. While those previously mentioned features are impressive, they also feel somewhat familiar.

If you’re yearning for something entirely fresh, look no further than Camera Coach. It treads a delicate line between artificial intelligence guidance and photo enhancement. Instead of relying on Google Photos or Magic Editor to improve an image post-capture, Camera Coach provides you with advice on how to elevate your results before you hit the shutter button.

As an enthusiast of mobile photography, I’m captivated by Camera Coach. I don’t wish for AI to overshadow the art of taking pictures, but Camera Coach has the potential to serve as an educational resource unlike anything we’ve encountered before. When utilized correctly, it could make photography more attainable for the general public.

How Camera Coach operates

Camera Coach is a generative AI tool making its debut in preview alongside the Google Pixel 10 series. It operates on bespoke Gemini models fine-tuned for photography suggestions. While some processing may happen on-device, a disclaimer states that “when you utilize Camera Coach, the scene’s contents will be transmitted to Google for processing and subsequently erased.”

Transferring some AI workload from your device to Google’s cloud servers is neither novel nor unexpected. It brings advantages, such as conserving your phone’s battery life for essential tasks. However, you might want to think carefully about what you share with Camera Coach due to privacy concerns, even if the data is ultimately deleted from Google’s servers.

Camera Coach is deactivated by default. Once activated, it employs AI models to assess the scene you’re aiming to capture with contextual understanding. After it comprehends the scene, Camera Coach offers suggestions regarding various elements of the shot, such as composition, framing, and lighting. All of this occurs prior to you taking the photo, ensuring that the photographer retains full control.

Camera Coach democratizes proficient photography

I’m instinctively reluctant to allow AI to infiltrate creativity and the arts, but let’s face it, photography is not the easiest craft to master. I possess a Sony a6400 mirrorless camera for professional and recreational use, although I wouldn’t classify myself as an exceptional photographer. The price of a high-quality camera like that creates a significant entry barrier, and mastering its use is another considerable challenge. It’s one that I openly admit I haven’t dedicated the time to conquer yet.

This fundamental idea is what altered my perspective on Camera Coach after I was initially skeptical about the feature. Photography is a challenging skill to acquire, and not everyone has the leisure to learn it. We’ve all come across sayings like “it’s the photographer, not the camera that captures the photograph” — and they’re all valid. That’s precisely why there’s a necessity for something like Camera Coach to be available.

Smartphones already excel as cameras, and they perform so well that the skills of smartphone users now require enhancement, rather than hardware specifications.

AI might act as a superior photography instructor in real-time, utilizing actual scenes to educate Pixel 10 owners about concepts such as composition and lighting. Camera Coach can recommend adjustments, like repositioning the subject or leveraging optical zoom to benefit the photographer. It may even generate entirely new shot ideas simply by analyzing your environment.

If you’re passionate about photography, you’ve likely grimaced at the images taken with smartphones by your friends and relatives. You understand that tilting the camera lens slightly up or down could have dramatically improved the photo — but they don’t. Camera Coach certainly appears to be a solution to this dilemma, effectively serving as a photography instructor you can keep in your pocket.

Camera Coach is only beneficial if you learn from it

If Camera Coach facilitates photography to become more accessible for the broader public, I’m fully in support. I despise hindering hobbies and skills, and capturing photos correctly is quite challenging. I would love to see Pixel 10 users experiment with Camera Coach for, let’s say, a month. Afterward, those same users should ideally have acquired enough knowledge to begin applying Camera Coach principles autonomously.

I would be dishonest if I claimed I didn’t fear individuals might use Camera Coach as a crutch rather than an educational tool. In that scenario, we could forfeit skills due to AI, instead of acquiring them. Camera Coach isn’t fundamentally detrimental — in fact, it might be exceptional — but it’s our responsibility to wield it correctly.

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The Sony WH-1000XM6 Takes the Place of My Liking for Sonos Ace

**Sonos Ace: The Comfort Champion Confronts New Trials**

The Sonos Ace headphones have been praised for their exceptional comfort and stylish design for an extended period. Featuring oval-shaped ear cups, memory foam padding, and high-quality metal details, they have established a significant benchmark in the realm of over-ear headphones. Nevertheless, as technology progresses, comfort by itself no longer suffices to meet the expectations of the discerning consumer.

**Comfort and Aesthetics: A Standard Set**

Sonos Ace headphones are famous for their comfort, earning them a devoted following among users who value prolonged listening without any discomfort. The design is simultaneously sleek and practical, boasting a lightweight structure that does not sacrifice style. Despite their comfort, the Sonos Ace headphones are beginning to show their limitations regarding sound performance and active noise-canceling (ANC) features.

**Audio Performance and ANC: Need for Enhancement**

Although the Sonos Ace provides adequate sound quality, it lags behind newer alternatives like the Sony WH-1000XM6. Users have pointed out concerns with static noise when ANC is activated, which can be distracting and detract from the listening experience. In contrast, the Sony WH-1000XM6 delivers superior noise cancellation and sound clarity, attributed to its cutting-edge technology and extra microphones.

**Wired Functionality: A Relative Weakness**

In wired mode, the Sonos Ace fails to match the volume and quality of its wireless configuration, mainly due to its reliance on the device’s DAC. This poses a drawback for users who prefer wired listening. Conversely, the Sony WH-1000XM6 excels in this aspect, providing an impressive wired listening experience that competes with its wireless capability.

**The Path Ahead for Sonos Ace**

As rivals like Sony continue to advance, the Sonos Ace must transform to preserve its reputation as a leading choice in the headphone industry. Enhancements in sound quality, ANC, and wired functionality are crucial for the upcoming iteration of Sonos headphones. Until that time, the Sony WH-1000XM6 emerges as a more complete choice for those in search of a harmonious blend of comfort, audio performance, and noise cancellation.

To summarize, while the Sonos Ace continues to be a leader in comfort, the expectations of contemporary audio fans demand more than mere comfort. The headphone industry is swiftly evolving, and Sonos must evolve to keep up with its competitors.

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Samsung Set to Introduce Budget-Friendly Galaxy Tab S10 Lite in September

**Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S10 Lite: An Exciting New Addition to the 2024 Tablet Collection**

Samsung has officially unveiled the forthcoming Galaxy Tab S10 Lite, set to launch on September 4. This latest entry into Samsung’s 2024 tablet lineup aims to provide a budget-friendly choice while retaining essential features and AI functionalities.

**Key Features and Specifications:**

– **Display and Design:** The Galaxy Tab S10 Lite showcases a 10.9-inch display, akin to the Galaxy Tab S10 FE, boasting a peak brightness of 600 nits. It is engineered to lower blue light emissions, thereby reducing eye strain during prolonged usage.

– **Camera and S Pen:** The tablet comes with an 8MP rear camera and a 6MP front camera. Additionally, it includes an S Pen, which offers users handy Handwriting Assist for effortless note-taking.

– **AI Capabilities:** Even as a “Lite” variant, the Tab S10 Lite integrates AI functionalities like Circle to Search, enabling users to access information smoothly. The tablet is compatible with third-party applications such as Goodnotes and Clip Studio Paint, fostering creativity and efficiency.

– **Performance and Battery:** Fueled by the Exynos 1380 SoC, the tablet provides configurations of 6GB RAM with 128GB storage and 8GB RAM with 256GB storage, expandable via microSD up to 1TB. It is equipped with an 8,000mAh battery featuring fast charging capabilities.

– **Accessories and AI Key:** The Tab S10 Lite is compatible with Samsung’s Book Cover keyboard, which includes a Galaxy AI Key for rapid AI support.

**Launch and Pricing:**

The Galaxy Tab S10 Lite will be offered in Gray, Silver, and Coral. While the precise pricing is yet to be revealed, it is anticipated to be modestly lower than that of the Galaxy Tab S10 FE, which debuted at $499. The official release is set for September 4, providing consumers with a value-oriented tablet option.

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AYANEO’s KONKR Pocket FIT Elite: An Emerging Standard for Android Gaming Handhelds

AYANEO’s venture into “budget” handheld devices has become even more intriguing with the arrival of the KONKR Pocket Fit and the newly unveiled KONKR Pocket Fit Elite. The Pocket Fit is slated to retail for under $329, while the Elite variant will be priced at under $399. The Pocket Fit will boast a Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 processor, a 6-inch LCD display featuring a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, along with an 8,000mAh battery. The Pocket Fit Elite is rumored to be the first handheld equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Both models will operate on Android 14 and are expected to launch shortly, with pre-orders likely commencing in September. This initiative by AYANEO is designed to offer more budget-friendly choices in the handheld gaming sector, competing with other brands such as AYN and Anbernic.

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Meta Enters into $10 Billion Cloud Services Contract with Google

The organization appears to be taking steps to fortify its position in the realm of AI.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential insights

  • It has been reported that Meta has secured a partnership with Google to access its cloud services for the coming six years.
  • Sources indicate the partnership was valued at $10 billion, granting access to Google’s cloud infrastructure, storage, and additional resources.
  • Observers note that Meta is enhancing its commitment to AI, a focus highlighted in its Q2 2025 earnings statement.
  • Meta plans to boost its revenue potential for AI, estimating figures between $66 billion and $72 billion in 2025.

Reports have emerged regarding a significant agreement made between Meta and Google for cloud services.

The agreement was reportedly finalized last Thursday (Aug 21), as indicated by a source that Reuters reported. These sources allege that Meta has secured a contract with Google worth $10 billion, consisting of a “six-year” agreement for utilizing the latter’s cloud services. It has been disclosed that Meta will utilize Google’s cloud storage, networking, servers, and “other offerings.”

The source cited by Reuters did not provide further specifics regarding the Meta and Google agreement. However, the article mentions <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1690538&xcust=ac_us_2821719635730584119&

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