Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Amazon Hints at Black Friday with 26% Price Cut on Bowers & Wilkins Headphones Amid Doubts

Only a few discounted units remain!

(Image credit: Bowers & Wilkins)

Audiophiles, celebrate: the Black Friday promotions are finally beginning to appear, and you might not have to wait long to grab a substantial discount on high-end noise-cancelling headphones. Weeks before the main sale weekend, Amazon is slashing 26% off the sophisticated Bowers & Wilkins PX8 headphones, reducing the price to $519.59 for a limited period. 

Bowers & Wilkins is recognized for crafting stylish, comfortable wireless headphones that satisfy both audiophiles and casual listeners, whether you are diving into classical music, metal, or an exciting video game. 

Read More
One UI 8.5 Leak Uncovers Enhanced Camera Functionality to Elevate Photography for Galaxy Users

No more rushing to capture the ideal shot.

In the realm of smartphone photography, securing the perfect image frequently necessitates a combination of expertise, timing, and occasionally a stroke of luck. Nonetheless, with the forthcoming One UI 8.5 update, Samsung intends to streamline this experience by incorporating presets for Pro camera controls. This function is intended to elevate the photography potential of Galaxy devices, enabling users to save and swiftly retrieve their favored camera settings.

What you should know:

– One UI 8.5 is set to introduce presets for Pro camera controls, enhancing photography functionality.
– Users can exchange camera presets with friends through the Quick Share app for collaborative photography.
– Update specifics indicate adjustable settings for various camera features on Galaxy devices.

The leaked One UI 8.5 versions imply that Samsung is developing presets for its Pro camera controls. This implies that users can save configurations for ISO, aperture, white balance, and more, facilitating quick changes without manual adjustments. This feature is particularly advantageous for capturing difficult images such as the moon or a dazzling sunrise.

Samsung may also permit users to select specific lenses for implementing these presets, like wide, ultrawide, or telephoto. The presets will record values for various camera settings, including focus type, ISO, Kelvin value, manual color adjustment, shutter speed, white balance, focus length, and exposure.

Additionally, users will have the capability to share these presets with others using the Quick Share app, simplifying collaboration among groups of photographers to utilize identical settings.

While it remains uncertain which devices will benefit from this feature, it pledges to make professional photography more approachable across Galaxy devices.

Read More
Google Play Enforces Age Verification for Downloading Certain Applications

Google is introducing new age verification measures in the Play Store that could prevent app downloads without age confirmation.

**Important points to consider:**
– Google is implementing age verification on the Play Store, mandating users to confirm they are 18 or older.
– Age verification can be completed using an ID, selfie, credit card, or a third-party service.
– Some users have expressed worries regarding data privacy and have reported being unable to access their accounts post-verification.

Recently, Google has been using AI for age verification across multiple services, and now the company has allegedly begun to deploy the age verification feature for the Google Play Store, necessitating users to demonstrate they are at least 18 years old.

Just a few months after YouTube started requiring users to verify their ages, Google seems to be following suit with the Play Store. As noted by Artem Russakovskii on X, Google has commenced the rollout of age verification checks for the Play Store.

Russakovskii indicated that Google Play will restrict downloads of “many apps” until age verification is completed. Google is providing several options for this, including submitting an ID, taking a selfie, entering credit card details, or confirming through a third-party service known as verifymy.io.

It seems the rollout is in its early stages and is slowly reaching users. The exact locations for the enforcement of these checks are still uncertain, but it seems likely that the feature will arrive soon in the U.S. Users can verify their age manually via a link without waiting for a prompt from Google. Nevertheless, not all verification methods may be accessible in every area.

**You may soon need to confirm your age on the Play Store**

The reason behind these checks is primarily to adhere to new regulations enacted in several U.S. states, such as Texas, Utah, and Louisiana, which require app stores to verify the ages of users before permitting downloads of age-sensitive applications. Similar laws are also expected to take effect in Texas and California.

While the initiative aims to safeguard minors from unsuitable content, numerous users on Reddit and X have voiced concerns about disclosing their personal information to Google and the risks of potential data leaks or misuse. Reports have also surfaced of some individuals being locked out of Google Search for not passing the verification process, leading to additional privacy concerns.

Read More
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Said to Offer Longer Battery Life for All-Day Convenience

The upcoming iteration of Galaxy Buds is poised to introduce a modest yet impactful upgrade, concentrating on enhancing the battery capacity of the charging case. Speculations indicate that the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro version may include a charging case equipped with a 530mAh battery, a slight increase from the existing 515mAh. This adjustment, albeit minor, reflects Samsung’s commitment to improving user experience by offering additional power. Furthermore, it is said that Samsung is evaluating One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy Buds 4 series, suggesting a possible redesign and a rapid development timeline aimed at achieving an early launch. The Galaxy Buds 4 series is anticipated to debut alongside the Galaxy S26 series, likely in early 2026. The refreshed design might incorporate a bud with a silicone tip and a clearly distinct stem, departing from the current smooth integration. As Samsung advances in its development, further information is expected to surface.

Read More
OPPO Find X9 Series Debuts Worldwide Showcasing High-Capacity Batteries and Sophisticated Imaging Technology

OPPO is poised to transform the smartphone industry with its newest offerings, the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, which are now launching globally following their debut in China. These smartphones are crafted to directly address battery anxiety, featuring some of the largest batteries ever seen in mobile devices. The Find X9 Pro stands out with an impressive 7,500mAh battery, while the standard Find X9 includes a 7,025mAh cell. Both variants support 80W wired and 50W wireless charging, allowing users to swiftly power up their devices.

The Find X9 series is driven by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 processor and operates on ColorOS 16, based on Android 16. OPPO has integrated sophisticated AI capabilities, such as AI Portrait Glow for improved selfies and AI Mind Space for better management of thoughts and ideation. The series underscores high-end design and state-of-the-art imaging features, with the Find X9 Pro presenting a 200MP telephoto sensor and a removable teleconverter lens for up to 10× native optical zoom. The standard Find X9 showcases a triple 50MP rear camera setup, ensuring notable imaging quality.

Both handsets are equipped with AMOLED screens featuring a 120 Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of up to 3,600 nits. The Find X9 has a 6.59-inch display, whereas the Pro model boasts a larger 6.78-inch screen. The phones exhibit flat edges, aluminum chassis, and are offered in several color choices, including Velvet Red, Space Black, and Titanium Grey for the Find X9, and Silk White and Titanium Charcoal for the Pro. They are engineered to endure environmental challenges, holding IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust protection.

A fresh hardware feature, the Snap Key, enables users to swiftly access key functionalities such as the camera or AI features. The Find X9 series delivers a premium experience with competitive pricing, starting at €999 for the Find X9 and €1,299 for the Find X9 Pro. Sales in Europe are expected to commence in late November, with a broader global launch to follow. These devices will be available through OPPO’s online platforms, retail collaborations, and engaging in-store displays, offering consumers a potent and dependable smartphone experience.

Read More
YouTube’s Innovative Interactive ‘Like’ Button Function Introduces Humor to User Engagement

In light of the update to the platforms’ video player, these fresh animations are set to activate for particular content genres.

YouTube has recently rolled out a collection of new animations that are linked to certain content genres as a component of its video player update. These animations aim to boost user engagement by offering a distinctive visual experience when users interact with content they appreciate. The animations activate when users express a like for a video, with variations based on the content genre.

For videos centered on sports, animations feature footballs, hockey pucks, and basketballs, in line with the thematic elements of the content. Likewise, other genres, including thrillers and romance, showcase their own unique animations that correspond with the essence of the videos. This update contributes to YouTube’s extensive initiative to render its video player more immersive and less disruptive, as announced in mid-October.

The introduction of these animations is being executed gradually, meaning that not all users will encounter them at the same time. There are around 20 distinct animations available, spanning a vast array of genres and video categories. This feature is part of YouTube’s continuous modernization plans, which also encapsulate enhancements to the video player’s design and usability.

Alongside these animations, YouTube’s latest updates have improved the platform’s AI functionalities, unveiling new features like AI music hosts that deliver commentary and trivia pertaining to music content. These advancements are intended to cultivate a more engaging and customized viewing experience for users.

Read More
Step-by-Step Instructions for Early Access: How to Acquire Gemini for Home Immediately

The Early Access phase for the company’s smart home devices developed since 2016 has arrived.

Key information:
– Google has announced that the Gemini for Home Early Access trial is starting today (Oct 28) for Android users.
– This trial entirely replaces the Assistant with Gemini and Gemini Live on Google’s speakers and displays.
– Each Gemini version is designed to quickly address simple questions, offering deeper insights and improved comprehension for more complex topics.

Google’s significant advancements towards a more efficient smart home are officially here, as the company details what interested participants can expect.

In a post from Keyword, Google reveals that Gemini for Home is launching today (Oct 28) in early access for users located in the U.S. If you’ve signed up for this major AI enhancement, Google confirms that the previous Assistant will be replaced with Gemini. The company describes this as a “core update,” which aims to create a more natural interaction between the user and the AI. There will be no additional costs for consumers, as this is merely a shift in AI.

To utilize the new Gemini Home assistance, users can continue to use the “Hey Google” wake phrase. The post mentions that users can speak this command to their compatible speakers or display device to receive “richer answers, set and modify reminders, stream media, and manage your smart home…”

For those wanting to harness Gemini Live’s intelligence, users must say, “Hey Google, let’s chat.” This command unlocks an enhanced level of AI support that helps users “expand their understanding” on various intricate subjects. Users can inquire about VR, comprehend online articles, or even assist their children with homework.

Gemini Live in this Home enhancement can also support parents in determining ideal meals for their selective little eaters and even practice public speaking skills.

Answer the door; it’s Gemini

In addition to the numerous (100 things to try) prompts and queries available with Gemini, the AI’s smart home functionalities advance significantly. As the early access trial begins today, users can utilize the AI to review their camera history and create new automations without needing to access their phones. However, a Google Home Premium subscription is required for such features.

If you enrolled earlier, you should notice these exciting updates today. If you haven’t signed up but are interested, users need to open Google Home (v4.1 or higher) > Tap Settings > Tap “Early Access.” There is a comprehensive guide containing information, along with the devices supported by Google for this trial.

Interestingly, reports were circulating in October regarding Gemini for Home appearing for some users. Reddit users mentioned receiving emails about the trial’s rollout, even though certain features were absent, despite having the necessary subscription. So, these could have been early glimpses of the trial’s launch, and Google is now officially expanding it to enrolled testers.

Regardless, Gemini for Home is presented as a significant transformation for the Google smart home experience. Gemini’s integration offers enhanced support for users looking to review their camera footage, access their Home Brief, and much more, as discussed at the month’s start.

Read More
Samsung’s DRAM Deficit May Drive Up Costs of Upcoming Galaxy Smartphones

The firm’s tactical transition towards more “lucrative” productions appears to have influenced its DRAM output, resulting in a deficiency. Reports suggest that Samsung is facing a DRAM production shortfall due to its heightened emphasis on high-bandwidth memory (HBM) manufacturing for AI servers. This transition has, as reported, escalated expenses and could have repercussions for the upcoming “low to mid” range Galaxy smartphones. While there was conjecture concerning a possible price surge for the Galaxy S25 series, it ultimately did not come to fruition.

The deficiency is linked to a substantial increase in HBM production, which offers greater profitability than conventional DRAM. Samsung’s transition towards HBM aims to accommodate the rising demand for AI and AI servers, but it has left DRAM production short on essential resources. This circumstance may influence Samsung’s “low to mid-priced devices,” possibly affecting the Galaxy A series and potentially future FE models.

Although the DRAM shortfall presents difficulties, Samsung’s initiatives in HBM production have likewise led to price increases for SSDs. Nonetheless, consumers can rest assured that there is no imminent price hike for future Galaxy S series smartphones. In spite of previous speculation, Samsung did not elevate prices for the Galaxy S25 series, including the S25 Ultra, maintaining a price of $1,299.

Samsung’s emphasis on HBM manufacturing signifies its strategy to leverage more profitable opportunities, yet it must tackle the DRAM shortfall to avert possible effects on its product range. As the company maneuvers through these obstacles, consumers look forward to the Galaxy S26 series, which might experience a postponed release.

Read More
Google Declares Gemini’s Debut on Google TV Streaming Device This Winter

Gemini is poised to upgrade Google TV Streamer this winter with interactive AI and enhanced on-screen functionalities. Google is set to deploy Gemini to additional devices, such as Google Home and Google TV Streamer, in the near future. The firm has announced that Gemini will be available on Google TV and other platforms “this winter.” Gemini will elevate Google TV with advanced, interactive AI and richer visual feedback.

Google has been progressively introducing Gemini to more services throughout the year. The company has begun rolling out Gemini to Google Home devices following its announcement in October 2025, and now, a recent report verifies that Gemini is also on its way to the Google TV Streamer sooner than anticipated.

As noted by 9to5Google, Google confirmed on its Nest Community forum that Gemini is en route to Google TV Streamer and other devices “this winter.” Earlier, the company provided only a broad “later this year” estimate, but has now clarified the timeline, giving us hope that the upgraded Google Assistant will be available on our preferred streaming device in the upcoming months.

Although Google has been expanding Gemini’s reach across its applications and services, it is currently compatible with only a select few Google TV models, such as the TCL QM9K Google TV. A Reddit user recently mentioned seeing the Gemini setup interface on their Sony Bravia TV, but, overall, availability remains limited for the time being.

Fortunately, we now have confirmation that Google’s leading streaming device will soon feature AI integration. This should also clear the way for Gemini to become available on other Google TV streaming devices, including Walmart’s onn and Nvidia Shield TV.

Gemini on Google TV will provide an upgraded experience compared to the existing Google Assistant. Users will be able to pose intricate questions in natural language, like “What occurred in the last episode of Riverdale?” and even ask for recipes or other details, all displayed prominently on the TV screen.

For those who may not know, the Google TV Streamer is the company’s top streaming device and acts as Google’s competitor to the Apple TV 4K. It is capable of 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR10+. The device also supports emerging smart home standards like Matter and Thread and features a customizable remote button, allowing you to assign it to any function.

Gemini arriving soon

Google TV Streamer provides 4K HDR playback with Dolby Vision and Atmos support. It is driven by a quicker processor and boasts 32GB of built-in storage. Google has confirmed that Gemini AI integration for the device will debut this winter, making the streamer even more appealing.

Read More
Google’s Pomelli AI Debuts as an All-Inclusive Marketing Tool

No design crew? No issue. Google’s latest AI crafts your brand’s social media campaigns.

(Image credit: Google)

Essential details

  • Google unveils Pomelli, an innovative AI marketing solution stemmed from Google Labs and DeepMind, designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in creating polished, brand-aligned campaigns.
  • Pomelli first analyzes your brand by examining your website to establish a “Business DNA” that encapsulates your tone, colors, fonts, and overall persona.
  • Integrated editing options allow users to modify text and graphics directly within the platform before exporting the finalized assets.

Notice

Read More