Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Google Confronts $314 Million Class Action Lawsuit in the US Over Alleged Misuse of Cell Data

Google finds itself back in the courtroom regarding its handling of Android user data over mobile connections.

(Image credit: Android Central)

Key information

  • This week, Google faced a $314 million fine for its “improper” use of Android users’ cell data during OS migrations.
  • The court in California contended that Google exploited user data for “targeted advertising” and more, leading to consumption of their cell data; however, Google claims its data transfers were benign.
  • Following the ruling, Google’s representative, Jose Castaneda, stated that the court “misinterpreted” its practices and that an appeal is forthcoming.
  • Google is also under scrutiny in Australia for misinforming users regarding the storage of their location tracking data.

This week, Google has come under scrutiny and is reportedly facing a hefty penalty due to a lawsuit from a California court.

According to a report by Reuters, the publication notes a recent lawsuit against Google asserting that the company has “misused” cellular data from Android users. The plaintiffs, led by attorney Glen Summers, claim that Google “gathered” data from users’ devices running the Android OS while inactive. Furthermore, the plaintiffs allege this was conducted to serve “company interests like targeted advertising, using Android users’ cellular data at their detriment.”

This was a class action lawsuit initiated in California in 2019, aimed at benefiting approximately “~14 million Californians” who were impacted.

Early Prime Day Offer: Prime Members Get 50% Discount on Amazon Fire Tablet

This is the lowest price this tablet has ever reached, even if it is limited to Prime members.

(Image credit: Amazon)

If you’re a current Amazon Prime member seeking an affordable tablet deal, you have arrived at the right destination. Currently, Amazon Prime members can enjoy a 50% discount on the highly-rated Fire HD 10 tablet, just ahead of the retailer’s Prime Day sales event (July 8-11).

We’ve chosen the Fire HD 10 tablet as our top pick among Fire tablets for sharing, featuring a reasonably large 10.1-inch screen, seamless integration with Alexa smart home devices, and sufficiently fast performance, second only to the Fire Max 11. In terms of colors, it comes in Black, Lilac, and Ocean, available with 32GB or 64GB of storage.

As frequently seen with Fire tablet promotions, this offer is the lowest price for the model with lockscreen advertisements. However, it’s important to mention that you can pay just an additional $15 to have them eliminated.

TCL NXTPAPER 4.0 Tackles Significant Concealed Challenge in Technology

NXTPAPER 4.0 arrives in the U.S. for the very first time with the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus tablet priced at $249, and it’s magnificent.

In my pursuit of a display that is visually appealing and gentle on the eyes, I have narrowed it down to a select few options. E Ink is frequently praised as the most eye-friendly display type available, and while it certainly presents a more natural feel compared to traditional displays, companies like TCL are striving to merge E Ink’s legibility with the smoothness of conventional displays.

With the introduction of the NXTPAPER 11 Plus tablet at the end of June, TCL is initiating a new chapter in display technology with NXTPAPER 4.0, the newest iteration of TCL’s captivating ePaper technology. NXTPAPER 4.0 offers increased brightness, improved color accuracy, and a host of fresh eye-friendly features that establish a new benchmark for LCD technology.

Like its predecessors, the NXTPAPER 11 Plus incorporates a protective layer over the display that is not only matte — akin to Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra display — but also possesses a paper-like texture underneath for a more organic look. It offers three distinct color modes that can be utilized to closely replicate a paper-like experience: regular mode, color paper mode, and ink paper mode, all accessible with a tap of the new NXTPAPER key located at the top of the tablet.

Even more impressively, the tablet is incredibly affordable, retailing at just $249 at Walmart. The U.S. version does not include a stylus, but it is available as a $39 optional add-on should you desire one. If only we could see more of the TCL 60 series in the U.S. featuring NXTPAPER 4.0 displays, it would be truly excellent.

The hues, Duke

While I genuinely value the paper-like look of the imagery displayed on the 11-inch tablet’s screen, it’s the improved color accuracy that significantly benefits sensitive eyes. This isn’t due to the fact that more precise colors inherently make a display more comfortable. Instead, a display capable of naturally exhibiting a broader spectrum of colors is preferable because it doesn’t rely on artificial methods to achieve it.

A notable number of modern displays utilize a technique called color dithering to enhance perceived display quality. This clever engineering trick alters a pixel quickly between two colors, tricking the eyes into seeing a non-existent color. However, analogous to PWM dimming, any rapid flickering of this sort can cause users severe headaches (or worse).

TCL NXTPAPER 3.0 and previous versions employed color dithering due to the technology’s inability to natively render 8-bit or 10-bit color, but NXTPAPER 4.0 addresses this issue. In regular color mode, you can deactivate all NXTVISION features in display settings, fully eliminating all color dithering in my assessments.

I gauge this by connecting a OnePlus 13 to an affordable smartphone microscope that I acquired on Amazon for $20. I selected this phone specifically for its capability of 480FPS slow motion, whereas most flagship devices (iPhone, Galaxy, and Pixel) max out at 240FPS.

I then display various images and bring the microscope up to the screen momentarily to capture any potential pixel activity. My evaluations include a rainbow gradient, a grayscale gradient, three different gray images set at 25%, 50%, and 75%, alongside an examination of the edges of text and icons on the home screen.

The most prevalent location for dithering is along the edges of icons and text, as well as with grays at 50% and darker. In regular mode, the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus exhibited no traces of dithering, something that flicker-sensitive users have long desired in an age where display and phone manufacturers often overlook scientific findings in favor of more vibrant screens, neglecting the long-term well-being of their consumers.

Regrettably, NXTPAPER’s two additional display modes, color paper and ink paper, both employ dithering to create their unique visual effects. Users who aren’t sensitive to dithering — which thankfully seems to be a majority — will appreciate these alternative modes for varied types of content.

Matte for the win

Incorporating a distinctive matte layer atop a display is one of the aspects that makes the finest E Ink tablets immensely enjoyable to read on, and it contributes to the appealing nature of NXTPAPER as well.

Matte layers reduce reflections and enhance visibility in varying lighting conditions, in addition to aiding in diffusing light in a manner that’s generally regarded as easier on the eyes. In fact, these layers are often so effective at diffusion that individual pixels beneath the matte layer are nearly invisible, even under a microscope.

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“Crucial iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Features That Chrome on Android Needs to Embrace”

Safari continues to outshine Chrome in one significant aspect

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

The start of June often signals the release of the latest updates for the software powering the iPhone and iPad range, and this year was no different, with Apple unveiling a bold new software approach for its current and upcoming devices.

Android 16 and iOS 26

  • Android 16 Material 3 Expressive versus iOS 26 Liquid Glass
  • Apple ought to replace Siri with Gemini and Google Cloud
  • Apple’s reliance on Google has never been greater
  • All the elements Apple appropriated from Android and Wear OS at WWDC 2025

Similar to Google and the Material

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Garmin Forerunner 570: An Outstanding Running Smartwatch Outmatched by Better Options

The Garmin Forerunner 570 is a smartwatch tailored for runners, presenting a variety of features that appeal to fitness lovers. With a price tag of $549.99, it seeks to deliver a premier Garmin experience through its vibrant display, comprehensive fitness capabilities, and attractive design. Nevertheless, a few essential features are absent, which could prompt prospective buyers to explore alternate choices.

**Pros:**
– The Forerunner 570 features a large, luminous display that improves visibility during outdoor exercise.
– It is packed with various running and fitness tools, making it a flexible device for athletes.
– The design stands out, offering a selection of color choices and band combinations that enhance its aesthetic.
– It includes a microphone and a reasonably loud speaker, enabling voice commands and phone calls.
– Garmin’s newest Elevate sensor is included, offering precise health and fitness monitoring.
– The battery life extends up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, which is impressive relative to many competing smartwatches.

**Cons:**
– The watch is not comfortable for overnight wear, which may hinder its sleep tracking capabilities.
– It does not have ECG functionality or offline maps, features that some users might anticipate at this price range.
– Although the battery life is satisfactory, it does not match that of other less expensive Garmin models.
– The relatively high price tag could discourage budget-conscious consumers.

**Design and Features:**
The Forerunner 570 comes in two sizes, 42mm and 47mm, in five color variations. It boasts an AMOLED display, an aluminum bezel, and a silicone strap, combining durability with style. The watch is water-resistant up to 5 ATM and safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. It offers support for GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and multi-band GPS for precise tracking.

**Performance:**
The Forerunner 570 excels in fitness tracking, providing accurate heart rate and step measurements. It includes features like Morning and Evening Reports, giving users daily updates and workout recommendations. However, the absence of ECG and offline maps could be a downside for some users.

**Conclusion:**
The Garmin Forerunner 570 proves to be a solid option for dedicated runners searching for a feature-rich smartwatch. Its design, display, and fitness functions enhance its appeal, yet the lack of certain features may prompt others to consider different models. For individuals who prioritize style and fitness tracking, the Forerunner 570 is worthy of consideration, but prospective buyers should assess its advantages and disadvantages against their individual requirements and budget.

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“Excessive Cost of Nothing Phone 3 Reduces Its Attractiveness in India”

The Phone 3 is priced at ₹79,999 (approximately $933) in India, which is outrageous.

The Phone 3 represents Nothing’s most ambitious offering to date, continuing the brand’s legacy of unique design paired with compelling software features. There is undoubtedly much to appreciate about the device, and I look forward to experiencing it. However, one element was particularly striking during the launch: the price point.

In the U.S., the Phone 3 begins at $799, climbing to $899 for the 16GB/512GB variant. This will be a challenging proposition, especially since Nothing lacks any carrier collaborations in the U.S. The brand encounters a tougher struggle in its largest market, India. The 12GB/256GB version of the Phone 3 is priced at ₹79,999 ($933) in India, while the 16GB/512GB variant is available for ₹89,999 ($1,050).

This pricing is unreasonable in a market that is notably sensitive to costs, and I am unclear about what led Nothing to adopt such a high price point. The brand typically sells the vast majority of its products—whether budget devices, earbuds, or CMF-branded items—in India, indicating a solid grasp of the pricing landscape. Nevertheless, the Phone 3 is more expensive in India than in the U.S., which is puzzling.

The difficulty in justifying the price lies in the fact that the Phone 3 is assembled locally in India. Nothing proudly states that the Phone 3 is “Designed in London. Made in India,” yet the pricing does not support this assertion. The entire premise of producing a device within the country is to decrease costs, a strategy effectively employed by Chinese brands that offer their flagship devices at significantly lower prices compared to other markets.

For example, take the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. The device is priced at ₹109,999 ($1,284) in India for the 16GB/512GB variant, and while that is a considerable amount, the same phone is available for £1,199 ($1,642) in the U.K. Similar trends are observed with the OnePlus 13; in India, the device starts at ₹69,999 ($816), while it is priced at $899 in the U.S.

Every other brand comprehends the necessity to adopt a competitive approach in India to establish a presence, which makes the Phone 3’s pricing in India difficult to comprehend. No need to reference other brands; Nothing’s Headphone 1—which was launched alongside the Phone 3—is expected to retail for ₹21,999 ($256) in India, demonstrating a significant difference compared to the $299 pricing in the U.S.

This pricing trend is consistent across all of Nothing’s products launched over the past three years; items such as the Phone 2a, Phone 3a Pro, CMF Phone 2 Pro, CMF Buds 2, and Buds 2 Plus, among other earbuds, are priced lower in India than in almost any other region, yet with the Phone 3, the scenario is reversed.

Furthermore, there is the hardware consideration; the Phone 3 does not feature Qualcomm’s premium silicon, opting instead for the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. While it is an adequate chipset, it is found in devices that are priced at less than half that of the Phone 3, such as the iQOO Neo 10 and the POCO F7.

Nothing insists that the quality lies in how the hardware is optimized, not just in the components used; the brand has previously demonstrated proficiency in this area, but it does not change the fact that you’re spending more for a device that falls short compared to the OnePlus 13 and Vivo X200.

As someone who has experience with every Nothing phone and accessory, I am disappointed by the Phone 3’s pricing in India. The device undoubtedly has the potential to excel, and it merely needed Nothing to adopt a more aggressive pricing strategy to help this emerging manufacturer secure a position in the premium market. Unfortunately, that is not the case, and Nothing’s myopic decision is making the Phone 3 a tougher sell than necessary.

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Comparison of Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 9: Main Features and Enhancements

The Google Pixel 10 could represent a significant development for the Pixel lineup. Anticipated upgrades this year include a Tensor G5 chip manufactured by TSMC and a telephoto lens debuting for the first time. If rumors and leaks prove accurate, the standard Pixel will appear more “Pro” than before.

Pros:
– Extended battery life
– Enhanced Tensor G5 processor produced by TSMC
– 5x optical zoom telephoto lens

Cons:
– New main camera sensor may represent a downgrade
– Resembles the Pixel 9 design
– Base model might lack PWM display enhancements

The Google Pixel 9 remains the latest base-model Pixel on the market. It’s equipped with the Tensor G4 chip, offers a 50MP primary camera, and boasts a stylish design. Additionally, it continues to decrease in price.

Pros:
– High-quality design
– Main camera sensor may outshine the forthcoming Pixel 10
– Software support for many more years ahead

Cons:
– Tensor G4 chip lags behind current-generation processors
– Low charging speeds
– Competes with Pixel 9a regarding value

The Google Pixel 9 ranks among the top smartphones of 2025, and its successor, the Google Pixel 10, is likely to be officially revealed soon. Presently, rumors suggest that the Pixel 10 will maintain certain aspects from the Pixel 9 while introducing substantial upgrades. If you’re searching for a new Android device, you may be curious how the upcoming Pixel 10 is poised to stack up against the current model.

According to Google’s latest release timeline for Pixels, we can expect the Pixel 10 to launch in August 2025. That’s roughly a month away, and leaks are becoming more frequent as launch dates approach. Here’s what we currently know about how the Pixel 10 aims to enhance the successful Pixel 9.

Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 9: Design and display

The Google Pixel 10 is likely to keep a similar design to that of the Pixel 9, potentially featuring a larger camera bump and slightly altered dimensions. Leaked images indicate a more subdued pink color option for the Pixel 10 compared to the Peony choice available on the Pixel 9. Otherwise, the Pixel 10 seems to maintain the same construction as the Pixel 9, with flat aluminum sides and a glass back.

While specific dimensions for the Pixel 10 remain unknown, the Pixel 9 measures 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5mm and weighs 198 grams. The forthcoming model will probably have comparable dimensions, but not identical, ruling out cross-generation case compatibility.

While shedding some weight to compete with flagship devices from Apple and Samsung would be advantageous, it’s unclear if Google will pursue this direction. The speculated larger camera bump and telephoto lens could potentially increase the phone’s weight rather than decrease it.

A suggestion that the Pixel 10 will feature modified dimensions came from Thinborne, which early on listed Pixel 10 cases. These have since become available, and indeed, a Pixel 9 will not fit accurately in a Pixel 10 case.

Expect both the Pixel 10 and Pixel 9 to utilize Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Pixel 10 display should at the very least match the specifications of the Pixel 9’s display. This means anticipating a 6.3-inch 120Hz Actua OLED with a resolution of 2424 x 1080. Furthermore, HDR support and a peak brightness of at least 2,700 nits should also be in the mix.

To set the Pixel 10 display apart from the Pixel 9, Google might introduce a minor adjustment or two. Although the “Pro” variants are expected to gain enhanced PWM capabilities, the base-model Pixel 10 is rumored to miss out on this feature.

Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 9: Hardware and specs

The Google Pixel 10 is set to include the Tensor G5 as its processor, which comes as no surprise. Each Pixel phone generation has featured a new Tensor chip since Google switched to its own silicon development. However, the Tensor G5 is reportedly the first chip manufactured by TSMC rather than Samsung Foundry, signaling a considerable advancement.

In addition to leveraging TSMC’s cutting-edge fabrication techniques, Google may also have the chance to integrate more customized components into the Pixel 10. For example, it is expected to include a fully custom image-signal processor (ISP) for the first time. A leaked component list for the Tensor G5 provides insight into the potential upgrades heading to the Pixel 10.

Given that the Tensor G4 is largely seen as underwhelming compared to the Apple A18 Pro

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Nothing’s Headphone 1 Characteristics Include Button Management, Striking Design, and Improved Sound Performance

**Android Central Verdict: Nothing Headphone 1**

**Rating: 3 out of 5 stars**

The inaugural pair of over-ear headphones from Nothing seamlessly aligns with the brand’s design philosophy. It features a distinctive design alongside a strong emphasis on hardware buttons, ports, and switches. The sound quality and active noise-canceling capabilities are present, yet Headphone 1 does not manage a wide range of tracks as effectively as other more reliable choices available.

**Pros:**
– Eye-catching design with a USB-C port and 3.5mm jack
– Good sound quality that is easily adjustable through the Nothing X app
– Great variety of buttons for controlling playback, noise, and accessories
– Acceptable battery life with ANC activated, remarkably good battery life with ANC deactivated

**Cons:**
– Headphone 1 must be charged to utilize analog ports
– Bass sounds may overshadow high-end vocals and instruments on certain tracks
– Bold design may not appeal to all users
– Case resembles a Sonos Ace and leaves room for improvement.

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Amazon Unveils Early Prime Day Discounts: Save Up to 68% on Fire Tablets, Echo Speakers, and Additional Items

Ignite savings on fire technology.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

This year’s Prime Day event doesn’t officially start until July 8th, yet Amazon has quietly released a range of smart home discounts that had me double-checking the date. Prime members shopping today can enjoy savings of up to 68% on Fire and Echo products, whether you’re looking for a new smart speaker, tablet, or wireless earbuds. While it’s not Prime Day 2025 just yet, if these preliminary promotions are any indication, there’s plenty to be excited about.

Continue reading for a roundup of my top picks among Amazon’s early deals, featuring offers like 50% off the Fire HD 10 tablet and this deal that cuts a staggering <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FAll-new-Echo-Buds-Wireless-Charging-Case%2Fdp%2FB085

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All COROS Watches Contain a Major Flaw That Reveals Personal Information

An IT firm, SySS GmbH, has identified eight weaknesses in COROS PACE 3 watches that permit Bluetooth intruders to obtain user information and intercept notifications. These weaknesses allow attackers within Bluetooth proximity to connect with the device by exploiting a legacy “Just works” pairing method, circumventing secure authentication and encryption measures. Once linked, intruders can retrieve confidential information, alter device configurations, and even transmit counterfeit notifications. COROS has recognized the problem and intends to remedy these vulnerabilities by the conclusion of 2025, focusing on updates for Bluetooth pairing and communication encryption. This scenario underscores the necessity of frequent security updates, particularly for smaller technology companies.

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