Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

YouTube Shorts Begins Testing ‘Dislike’ Feature to Enhance User Feedback Mechanism

Following the unusual history of YouTube’s dislike button, this update for Shorts could clarify matters.

YouTube Shorts is initiating a test for users that includes its dislike and “not interested” features. The announcement indicates that the thumbs down button will combine these two features into a single option; however, users participating in this test will see one option or the other listed in the three-dot menu. As YouTube Shorts aims to assist users in curating their scrolling experience, it has also begun tests for its Music app, incorporating “AI music hosts.”

YouTube is launching a fresh experiment that invites users to view its short-form content and indicate what doesn’t appeal to them. A thread detailing YouTube’s “features and experiments” changelog highlighted a test commencing this week for Shorts that pertains to its dislike button. The goal of this test, per the platform, is to clarify the distinction between the dislike button and “not interested” options for content. YouTube notes that user feedback indicates that many utilize these buttons “interchangeably,” but some are “unsure of the differences.”

The thumbs down button is currently hidden behind the three-dot menu on Shorts, which is where YouTube is conducting the test. Starting this week, YouTube has stated that its test will involve combining the “not interested” and “dislike” content options into one—the thumbs down. While these options are integrated, the changelog mentions that some testers will see it labeled as one option or the other. YouTube additionally remarks, “All viewers in the experiment who select ‘thumbs down’ on a Short will receive an optional feedback survey.”

YouTube Shorts aims to provide clarity as it helps users refine their content feed, reducing exposure to videos they prefer to avoid.

There’s no denying that YouTube Shorts has emerged as an exceptionally popular feature for the platform, as it endeavors to enter the short-form content arena to compete with TikTok. Tests like this recent one are vital, given the diversity of video content available.

In addition to this Shorts test, YouTube Labs has launched a challenge this fall that underscores its commitment to AI. This initiative engaged YouTube Music users in experimentation with “AI music hosts.” These “hosts” delivered commentary, insights on the music being played, and trivia. According to YouTube, these AI hosts can “enhance your listening experience” with narratives about the music and the overall more “personalized” atmosphere they create, tailored to your preferences.

YouTube has also integrated AI into Shorts, granting short-form creators access to “Photo to video” tools. Creators can transform still images into short animations for their projects. YouTube Shorts utilized Veo 2’s generation software to accomplish this. However, the platform indicated that users could anticipate the arrival of Veo 3 to significantly elevate the capabilities of its AI generator.

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Top 5 Enhancements Sought for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Following the Evaluation of the Galaxy S25

The Galaxy S26 possesses the potential to be outstanding, but Samsung must tackle these facets.

Samsung opted for a conservative approach with the Galaxy S25, which, to be honest, turned out to be a rather appealing Android device. I would have preferred a bolder design overhaul, enhanced cameras, and advancements in battery and charging technology. Even lacking those enhancements, the Galaxy S25 proved itself as one of the finest phones available in 2025.

I anticipate significant developments from the Galaxy S26, though rumors and leaks indicate it could be disappointing. Samsung is following the introduction of the iPhone 17 and the Google Pixel 10, which featured trend-changing upgrades such as increased base storage and magnetic charging capabilities. To remain competitive, Samsung must match these features and more.

Here are the five enhancements I wish to see in Samsung’s Galaxy S26.

1. A sleeker and lighter design with Qi2
Reports suggest that Samsung will release the Galaxy S26 with a slightly larger display next year. I want Samsung to focus on preserving the in-hand feel while refreshing the design. Magnetic charging is now a crucial feature for any Android flagship aiming for serious consideration. Samsung should utilize its R&D prowess to integrate Qi2 while keeping changes to the Galaxy S25’s dimensions, thickness, and weight minimal.

2. Smart AI functionalities
Samsung’s AI capabilities are underrated, and I want to see an expansion of this for 2026. Features like Circle to Search and multimodal Gemini Live represent the kind of innovative software enhancements I wish to see launch alongside the Galaxy S26. Samsung should revisit its strategy and potentially collaborate with Google to envision new software upgrades for the Galaxy S26.

3. A fully upgraded camera system
Samsung must make substantial advancements to the entire camera system for the Galaxy S26. A camera system based on a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide with a 120-degree field of view, and a 12MP 3x telephoto lens seems inadequate as we approach 2026. Samsung should invest more in computational photography and color science to enhance the Galaxy S26’s photo quality without requiring hardware alterations.

4. Increased base storage (without a price increase)
Samsung can proactively impress with the Galaxy S26 by including 256GB of base storage. Apple gained attention with the iPhone 17 by making 256GB standard without increasing the price. Samsung should mirror this strategy, giving it an advantage over the Pixel 10.

5. Enhanced efficiency and battery performance
The Galaxy S25 comes with only a 4,000 mAh battery. With a power-demanding processor and display, the Galaxy S26 must enhance battery life in some manner. This could be achieved through capacity boosts, efficiency improvements, or faster charging speeds to facilitate mid-day power-ups.

While these are my primary requests, share your thoughts in the comments about what you wish to see in the Galaxy S26, anticipated to launch in just a few months!

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T-Mobile Provides Complimentary Pixel Smartphone and Earbuds in Festive Promotion: Information Inside

The festive season is a moment when numerous individuals seek out the best bargains to maximize their spending, and T-Mobile is making headlines with its newest promotion. This year, T-Mobile is presenting an attractive deal that features a complimentary Google Pixel 10 along with a set of Google Pixel Buds 2A earbuds, perfectly timed for the holidays. This offer is accessible to customers who add a line on the Experience More or Experience Beyond plan, with $799.99 in promotional credits distributed over 24 months, covering the entire cost of the phone. The Pixel Buds are given as an instant discount once both items are placed in the cart.

The Google Pixel 10, launched in 2025, is a premier device boasting a 6.3-inch OLED screen, adaptable cameras with an enhanced telephoto lens, and 12GB of RAM for swift performance. It also supports Qi2 and provides seven years of software updates. The Google Pixel Buds 2A are dependable wireless earbuds featuring customizable EQ options, up to 20 hours of battery longevity, and active noise cancellation, valued at $129.

This promotion is especially attractive for existing T-Mobile customers or those contemplating a switch to one of the top unlimited plans available. The Experience More and Experience Beyond plans begin at $90 and $105 per month for an individual line, respectively, with possible savings when adding additional lines and utilizing AutoPay. These plans feature unlimited talk, text, and premium data on T-Mobile’s 5G network, along with a complimentary mobile hotspot, international perks, and a five-year price lock. Entertainment bonuses such as free subscriptions to Netflix and Hulu are also included.

Although this deal may not suit everyone, particularly those aiming to cut down on their phone expenses or those who prefer unlocked devices, it offers a distinctive opportunity for T-Mobile users to obtain two excellent gadgets for free by simply adding the appropriate line.

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Gemini Unveils Capability to Detect Videos Created by Google AI

Upload a video to Gemini and quickly discover if it was generated by AI with Google technology.

Key points to note:
– Google is integrating a SynthID watermark checker into the Gemini app specifically for videos.
– This feature can indicate whether a video was created or altered using Google AI.
– The update comes after the introduction of the SynthID watermark validation feature for images in the Gemini app last month.

Over time, distinguishing AI-generated content from genuine photos and videos will become increasingly challenging, highlighting the significance of watermarking and digital metadata. Determining if a video is authentic or AI-produced can be difficult. While there are various online tools that attempt to identify AI-generated content, Google is developing an “imperceptible” watermark technology known as SynthID to aid users in discerning authenticity.

Starting now, Gemini is capable of verifying video authenticity using SynthID within the Gemini app. This video verification tool can identify if submitted content was either created or altered with Google AI in any capacity. Google claims that more than 20 billion pieces of AI-generated content have been marked with SynthID, which digitally watermarks Google AI creations from Veo generations to AI edits in Google Photos.

To utilize the feature, upload a video to the Gemini app and pose a question such as “was this created using Google AI?” Following this, Gemini will analyze the video and provide feedback, including details on which parts of the content (if any) were generated or modified by AI.

Gemini might reply with something similar to “SynthID detected within the audio between 10-20 seconds. No SynthID detected in the visuals,” as noted in Google’s blog post.

The video verification feature does come with certain limitations. For identification via the Gemini app, a video must not exceed 100MB in size and should be 90 seconds or shorter in duration. Moreover, this functionality is limited to spotting videos generated with Google AI tools that utilize the SynthID watermark — it will not disclose information about content created with third-party software.

The new feature in the Gemini app builds on the SynthID photo verification that was launched in November.

“SynthID integrates an invisible digital watermark into an AI-generated image (or video segment),” Google states on the DeepMind website. “The watermark does not alter the quality of the image or video. It is incorporated at the moment of content creation and is designed to endure modifications such as cropping, adding filters, altering frame rates, or lossy compression.”

Now, users of Gemini can effortlessly and quickly verify the authenticity of photos and videos within the Gemini app wherever it is accessible.

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Save 18% on This Legendary Kindle E-Reader and Get It by Christmas with Today’s Purchase

The standard Amazon Kindle serves as a reliable e-reader—particularly for below $90.

If you’re in the market for an affordable e-reader this winter, you’re fortunate with Amazon’s current Kindle promotion. At this moment, consumers can enjoy 18% off the Amazon Kindle, reducing the retail price of the entry-level e-reader to just $90.

The 2024 version of the device stands out as the top entry-level Kindle available, providing an economical price alongside a user-friendly display, ample storage for most casual readers, and a compact design that enhances comfort compared to earlier models. It also boasts impressive battery life and is constructed from 75% recycled plastics and 90% recycled magnesium.

This specific offer applies to both the Black and Matcha color options that the device is available in. It’s important to mention that this price pertains to the ad-supported version with a lockscreen, although you can pay slightly more to opt out of those ads. Buyers can also choose to bundle the device with 3 months of Kindle Unlimited, which grants access to over 4 million titles.

✅Recommended if: you prefer a tablet with an attractive, easy-on-the-eyes display and a device that is approximately 6 inches; battery longevity is a key factor for your e-reading needs; you desire a device equipped with Bluetooth and compatibility with platforms like Audible.

❌Skip this deal if: you require an e-reader that incorporates water resistance; you would rather upgrade to the Paperwhite model and have the funds to do so; you want a Kindle compatible with a stylus for note-taking, annotations, and more.

The base model of the Amazon Kindle is an excellent choice for nearly anyone interested in entering the world of e-readers, particularly due to its compact size, up to 6 weeks of battery life, and its enhanced 6-inch display.

When compared to the 2022 Amazon Kindle, the retailer claims the 2024 model is 25% brighter at its maximum setting, featuring a screen brightness comparable to the upgraded Paperwhite. Additionally, it provides improved performance for a smoother and faster page-turn experience, along with other upgraded display features such as adjustable front warm light. The 6-inch screen offers a 300ppi resolution and 16-level gray scale for a clear, high-contrast interface.

It also comes with a USB-C port for charging, Bluetooth compatibility, integration with reading applications like Audible, and an overall excellent design that remains comfortable to hold, even during extended reading sessions.

One of the most notable drawbacks of the base-level Kindle is its absence of a water resistance rating, although it’s still a strong choice at this price point if that feature isn’t a dealbreaker for you.

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NotebookLM Transforms Source Material into Tables Ready for Google Sheets

**Google AI Pro and Ultra Subscribers Access New Data Tables Feature in NotebookLM**

Google has proclaimed the launch of a fresh feature termed Data Tables for its AI-driven tool, NotebookLM. This feature is now accessible for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers, with availability for free accounts anticipated to follow shortly.

**Essential Information:**
– **Data Tables Feature:** The new Data Tables feature in NotebookLM organizes crucial data points from multiple sources into formatted tables. These tables can be effortlessly exported to Google Sheets for enhanced data management.
– **Intended Users:** The feature is tailored for students, knowledge professionals, scientific researchers, and everyday consumers, providing an efficient method to manage and visualize data.
– **Application Scenarios:** Google proposes various uses for Data Tables, including converting meeting transcripts into action item tables, synthesizing clinical trial results, creating study tables for exams, and organizing vacation plans with comparison tables.

**Functionality:**
NotebookLM enables users to upload source materials such as videos, websites, or PDFs. The AI subsequently processes this information to produce neat, structured tables, alleviating the manual effort of data extraction for users.

**Latest Enhancements:**
Google has been upgrading NotebookLM with functionalities like Gemini integration and chat history. The introduction of Data Tables represents another advancement in enhancing the tool’s efficiency for data organization and project management.

**Launch Timeline:**
The Data Tables feature is being made available for Google AI Pro and Ultra users beginning today, with free users expected to receive the update in the near future.

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Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 Improves Essential Features on Pixel Devices

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 illustrates that Google continues to address the minor details.

What you should know

– Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 has arrived just a few weeks after QPR2, likely indicating the final adjustments before Android 17.
– You can now disable the “At a Glance” widget to free up space on your home screen.
– The Quick Settings tile now incorporates a slider to manage beam intensity rather than just a basic on/off toggle.
– A new feature allows you to rearrange the back and recent buttons in the three-button navigation bar.

Just a short time after the launch of Android 16 QPR2 to the stable channel, Google has introduced Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1. This update is likely the last quarterly platform update prior to Android 17, and while it doesn’t introduce significant alterations, it aims to enhance everyday usability for Pixel users.

Quarterly Platform Releases, or QPRs, enable Google to enhance Android between major updates. Rather than waiting for an annual upgrade, these updates provide small enhancements, new functionalities, and background fixes.

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 is now accessible for Pixel devices from the Pixel 6 up to the latest models via the Android Beta Program. The stable version is anticipated to launch around March 2026.

At first glance, this beta emphasizes usability modifications that Pixel users have requested. One of the most prominent updates is in flashlight management. Instead of a straightforward on/off toggle, you now receive adjustable brightness, allowing you to modify the intensity based on your needs.

The main feature is the option to eliminate the At a Glance widget from your home screen. In this beta, a new “Show on home screen” choice is available in the widget’s settings. Turn it off, and the widget vanishes, giving you additional space to organize apps, add widgets, or simply enjoy your wallpaper.

Navigation has become more adaptable, as Google allows users to change the order of the traditional three-button navigation keys. This will feel recognizable to anyone familiar with Samsung devices.

Track which app is using your location

Privacy and transparency enhancements are also present. Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 introduces an expandable location indicator in the status bar, enabling you to easily identify which app is accessing your location. A tap provides more information, rather than just displaying a generic symbol.

The update additionally brings support for over 160 new emojis from Unicode 17.0, subtly modernizing the platform.

Of course, this remains beta software. Bugs, battery issues, and performance inconsistencies are expected, and choosing to participate means you’re committed until the stable release arrives, unless you are okay with resetting your device.

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Samsung Has Officially Introduced Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26 Series

Samsung has formally launched the Exynos 2600, representing a major achievement as the first smartphone chipset globally to utilize a 2nm manufacturing process. This innovative advancement promises considerable enhancements in performance, efficiency, and thermal management, establishing a new benchmark in the market.

The Exynos 2600 features a revamped CPU structure, removing low-power cores in favor of a more robust setup. This change leads to up to 39% gains in CPU performance, improved AI processing abilities, and twice the GPU performance in comparison to its forerunner, the Exynos 2500. The chipset’s 10-core CPU, based on Arm’s v9.3 design, includes a primary C1-Ultra core running at 3.8GHz, three high-performance C1-Pro cores operating at 3.25GHz, and three efficiency-oriented C1-Pro cores clocked at 2.75GHz.

Samsung has also tackled previous overheating concerns with the launch of a novel Heat Path Block (HPB) design. This advancement enhances heat dissipation, enabling the chipset to sustain high performance during intensive tasks by effectively dispersing heat and stabilizing the SoC’s temperature.

The Exynos 2600 is anticipated to drive the forthcoming Galaxy S26 series in specific markets, such as Asia and Europe, likely for the base Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus variants. Although speculation hinted at a possible exclusive deployment of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the introduction of the Exynos 2600 signifies Samsung’s ongoing approach of regional chipset diversity.

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