AllYouCanTech

Google Assistant is Being Supplanted by Gemini

# **”Hey, Gemini” Will Require Some Adjustment: The Evolution of Google Assistant**

Since its debut in 2016, Google Assistant has been a vital feature on Android devices, aiding users with tasks ranging from reminder setting to managing smart home gadgets. Nonetheless, the well-known “Hey Google” activation phrase is about to become obsolete as Google moves towards its new AI-driven assistant, Gemini. This change signifies a profound evolution in Google’s strategy for digital assistance, though it may take users a while to adapt.

## **Essential Information Regarding the Transition from Google Assistant to Gemini**

Google has recently revealed plans to start replacing Google Assistant with Gemini in the coming months. By the close of 2025, the majority of devices that currently support Google Assistant will have switched to Gemini, and users will no longer find Google Assistant available for download in app stores. While the specific rollout schedule is still uncertain, Google has confirmed that this change will impact mobile devices, wearables, and smart home technology.

### **What Is Driving Google’s Decision for This Transition?**

The shift from Google Assistant to Gemini is part of Google’s larger initiative to embed artificial intelligence throughout its ecosystem. As highlighted in Google’s official blog, Gemini is set to deliver a “new kind of assistance only achievable through the power of AI.” This implies that users can look forward to a more customized and context-sensitive experience, as Gemini will be capable of interacting with other applications on a device to gain a clearer understanding of user preferences.

Moreover, Google is enhancing Gemini’s functionalities to ensure it can handle all the tasks that Assistant currently manages while also introducing innovative AI-driven features. This transformation is in line with Google’s overarching AI strategy, which includes significant investments in machine learning and natural language processing.

## **How Will This Impact Users?**

For numerous users, the most significant change will be the adjustment to a new wake phrase. Although Google has not officially disclosed what the new activation word will be, there are speculations that “Hey, Gemini” may take the place of “Hey Google.” Initially, this alteration may feel strange, particularly for long-time users of Google Assistant.

Another possible hurdle is the gradual discontinuation of Google Assistant. While Google has reassured users that Assistant will still operate on devices that can’t support Gemini, those with compatible devices will eventually need to make the transition. This could involve learning new commands, getting accustomed to a changed interface, and adapting to Gemini’s AI-enhanced approach.

## **What New Features Will Gemini Introduce?**

Google has teased several new features set to accompany Gemini, such as:

– **Improved Personalization:** Gemini will utilize AI to better comprehend user preferences and offer more customized responses.
– **Advanced Research Functions:** Google intends to introduce capabilities like Deep Research, enabling Gemini to serve as a personal research assistant.
– **Gemini Live:** This feature is expected to enhance real-time interactions, making the assistant more dynamic and conversational.

In addition, Google is focused on ensuring that Gemini seamlessly integrates with smart home devices, wearables, and other Google-enabled products.

## **Looking Ahead: What to Anticipate**

Although the transition from Google Assistant to Gemini is already in progress, it will take time before the change is entirely in effect. Google has noted that the rollout will occur in stages, meaning some users might experience the switch earlier than others.

For the time being, Google Assistant will keep functioning normally, but users should brace themselves for a future where Gemini becomes the standard AI assistant in Google’s ecosystem. Whether this transition will be a smooth improvement or a challenging adaptation remains to be determined, but one thing is clear: “Hey, Gemini” will necessitate some adjustment.

The Majority of Leading Android Smartphones Are Constrained by This Typical Problem

# **Savvy Savings: Enhancing Storage Without Blowing Your Budget**

In the current digital landscape, storage capacity is a sought-after resource. Whether you’re a dedicated gamer, a lover of photography, or simply someone who accumulates files, hitting a storage limit on your gadgets can be quite annoying. As smartphone makers increasingly eliminate microSD card slots, users are faced with restricted options—either shell out extra cash for devices with higher storage or seek inventive methods to boost their storage without overspending.

This piece examines budget-friendly strategies to enhance storage, ranging from external drives to cloud services, ensuring you maximize your devices’ potential without straining your finances.

—

## **The Retreat of Expandable Storage: An Expensive Shift**

Not long ago, smartphones featured microSD card slots, enabling users to expand their storage affordably when compared to upgrading to a higher-priced model. However, major players like Apple, Samsung, and Google have recently phased out this feature, citing several reasons such as:

– **Performance issues** – Arguing that microSD cards perform slower than internal memory.
– **Data security concerns** – Indicating that removable storage could lead to data corruption risks.
– **Design constraints** – Contending that microSD slots consume valuable interior space in devices.

While these arguments may carry some weight, the underlying reason for this shift is financial. By removing expandable storage, companies can steer consumers toward more expensive models with increased internal capacity or cloud service subscriptions.

—

## **Budget-Friendly Options for Expanding Storage**

If you’re aiming to economize while enhancing your storage, consider these practical alternatives:

### **1. External SSDs: A Convenient and Cost-Effective Choice**

With microSD card slots disappearing, external SSDs have emerged as a favored option. These compact drives provide fast data transfer rates and substantial storage.

A notable recommendation is the **ORICO K20 Mini**, a portable SSD that magnetically attaches to your phone and is MagSafe-compatible. It offers up to **2TB of storage**, perfect for gamers, photographers, and creators.

**Advantages:**
✔ Rapid data transfer
✔ Compact and lightweight
✔ Works with numerous devices

**Disadvantages:**
✖ Needs a USB-C connection, which restricts simultaneous charging
✖ Might not be compatible with some phone accessories

### **2. Cloud Storage: Convenient Yet Potentially Costly Over Time**

Cloud storage options such as **Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive** allow effortless access to files across various devices. Though convenient, these services typically have monthly fees that can accumulate over a period.

**Advantages:**
✔ Accessible from anywhere
✔ Automatic backups
✔ No need for physical storage

**Disadvantages:**
✖ Requires a reliable internet connection
✖ Ongoing expenses can add up
✖ Privacy issues linked to third-party storage

### **3. USB OTG Drives: An Economical Choice**

USB On-The-Go (OTG) drives serve as a fantastic low-cost option for storage expansion. These compact flash drives can be connected directly to your smartphone via USB-C or micro-USB for quick file transfers.

**Advantages:**
✔ Budget-friendly and easily accessible
✔ No internet setup needed
✔ User-friendly

**Disadvantages:**
✖ Slower performance compared to SSDs
✖ Smaller storage capacity compared to external SSDs

—

## **Maximizing Your Storage: Tips & Techniques**

Regardless of the storage option you select, consider these extra tips to optimize your device’s storage:

✅ **Frequently clear out unused apps and files** – Free up space by deleting apps and media you no longer require.
✅ **Utilize streaming services** – Rather than downloading music and videos, opt for platforms like Spotify and Netflix.
✅ **Manage photo and video storage** – Enable cloud backups and decrease file sizes with compression applications.
✅ **Move files to external storage** – Store large files on an external SSD or USB OTG drive.

—

## **Concluding Thoughts: Intelligent Storage Without Added Expense**

While smartphone manufacturers may persist in incentivizing users to invest in costly storage upgrades, astute consumers can discover budget-friendly alternatives. Whether it’s a **portable SSD such as the ORICO K20 Mini**, cloud storage, or USB OTG drives, various methods exist to enhance storage without overspending.

By merging these options with clever storage management, you can guarantee that you won’t run out of space—without the hefty price tag.

### **What’s your preferred storage method? Share your thoughts in the comments!** 🚀

Chromecast with Google TV Encounters Problems After Android 14 Update

# Chromecast with Google TV Users Encounter Problems After Long-Awaited Android 14 Update

## Introduction

Google’s much-anticipated Android 14 update for Chromecast with Google TV has finally been released, but rather than generating excitement, numerous users are reporting an array of frustrating issues. From absent audio to problems with external storage, the update seems to have caused more complications than enhancements.

## What’s Happening?

After enduring months of anticipation, Chromecast with Google TV users are starting to receive the Android 14 update. However, reports from individuals on platforms such as Reddit and 9to5Google indicate that the update is bringing a series of problems, including:

– **No audio output** – Some users have noted that their Chromecast has completely lost sound, necessitating multiple restarts to restore functionality.
– **Remote control issues** – It has been reported that the Chromecast remote is not working as expected following the update.
– **External storage problems** – Several users assert that their Chromecast no longer detects external storage devices.
– **Disappearing settings** – Certain settings disappear while scrolling through the menu, complicating the process of configuring the device correctly.

## User Reactions and Workarounds

Many exasperated users have turned to the **AndroidTV subreddit** to share their experiences. One user pointed out that while their Chromecast wasn’t entirely unresponsive, they had to restart it multiple times to regain audio. Another mentioned that their external storage drive was no longer detected after the update.

Currently, the only proposed workaround seems to be **performing a factory reset**, although this is far from an ideal remedy.

## Google’s Response

As of this moment, Google has not formally acknowledged these problems or offered a solution. With this being the **final major OS update** for the Chromecast with Google TV, users are anxious that these issues might not be fully resolved.

## The Future of Chromecast with Google TV

This Android 14 update signifies the conclusion of major software updates for the Chromecast with Google TV. While security updates for the **HD variant** will be ongoing until 2027, the **4K version** is slated to receive updates only until **September 2025**.

Meanwhile, Google has redirected its attention to the **Google TV Streamer**, which has also encountered its own set of challenges. A recent update eliminated support for **Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD formats**, leaving audiophiles frustrated who depended on these features.

## Conclusion

Although the Android 14 update was intended to improve the Chromecast with Google TV experience, it has, in fact, brought about a multitude of problems. With no official resolution from Google as of yet, users are left to troubleshoot independently. If you’re facing difficulties, a factory reset may offer some assistance, but it remains uncertain whether Google will deliver a more lasting solution.

Have you faced issues with your Chromecast following the update? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Visible and Mint Mobile Each Provide a $400 Discount on the Google Pixel 9—Which Offer Is Superior?

# Analyzing the Top Google Pixel 9 Offers: Mint Mobile vs. Visible

The eagerly awaited **Google Pixel 9** is approaching release, and major carriers are rolling out attractive deals to entice customers. Two notable options come from **Mint Mobile** and **Visible**, both offering a **50% discount** on the Pixel 9 when purchased with a year of service. But which offer stands out? Let’s dive in.

## **Mint Mobile’s Google Pixel 9 Offer**
Mint Mobile has priced the **Google Pixel 9 (128GB) at $399** when acquired with a **one-year Unlimited plan**. The Unlimited plan itself is marked down by **$180**, resulting in a total of **$579** for both the phone and a year of service.

### **Advantages of Mint Mobile’s Offer**
✅ **Budget-Friendly Pricing** – At **$579 overall**, this is among the most economical options to obtain the Pixel 9 with a year of service.
✅ **T-Mobile Coverage** – Mint Mobile utilizes **T-Mobile’s network**, which provides robust coverage across various regions.
✅ **Unlimited Plan Benefits** – Features **unlimited talk, text, and data**, along with **Wi-Fi calling, mobile hotspot use, and free calls to Mexico and Canada**.

### **Drawbacks of Mint Mobile’s Offer**
❌ **Lack of International Roaming** – Frequent travelers may miss out on international roaming features.
❌ **Data Throttling** – Mint’s “Unlimited” plan could reduce speeds after reaching a specific data limit.

## **Visible’s Google Pixel 9 Offer**
Visible also has the **Google Pixel 9 (128GB) available for $399**, but it requires the use of the promo code **SWEETDEAL** during checkout. This offer mandates enrolling in **one year of Visible Plus**, which comes to **$395**. The overall cost totals **$794**.

### **Advantages of Visible’s Offer**
✅ **High-Quality Verizon Network** – Visible functions on **Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband**, delivering **better coverage and quicker speeds** in numerous locations.
✅ **Global Benefits** – Offers **unlimited talk and text to various countries worldwide**.
✅ **Enhanced Data & HD Streaming** – Provides **50GB of premium data** each month and **720p HD video streaming**.

### **Drawbacks of Visible’s Offer**
❌ **Higher Overall Price** – At **$794 total**, this is **$215 pricier** than Mint Mobile’s deal.
❌ **Less Suitable for Budget-Conscious Shoppers** – For those seeking the lowest expenditure, Mint Mobile is the preferable option.

## **Which Google Pixel 9 Offer is Superior?**
Both offers present **50% off** the Pixel 9, but the **ideal choice depends on your preferences**:

– **Opt for Mint Mobile** if you prioritize the most **budget-friendly selection** and do not require **international features** or **high-speed data**.
– **Select Visible** if you prefer **Verizon’s top-tier network**, **global benefits**, and **enhanced streaming quality**.

### **Conclusive Opinion**
For those in search of the **best deal**, **Mint Mobile’s offer takes the lead** at **$579 overall**. However, if you seek **superior coverage, enhanced data, and international perks**, **Visible’s deal is worth evaluating** despite the increased cost.

Whichever option you decide on, you’ll be acquiring an **AI-enhanced smartphone boasting a vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, state-of-the-art camera capabilities, and seven years of software updates**. Enjoy your shopping experience! 🚀

Samsung Might Unveil Variable Aperture Camera on Galaxy S26 Ultra

# Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: Is Variable Aperture Making a Comeback?

Reports suggest that Samsung is thinking about reintroducing a feature it tested in the past—variable aperture—on its forthcoming **Galaxy S26 Ultra**. If this turns out to be accurate, it could represent a major leap forward in smartphone photography, especially in low-light scenarios and HDR capabilities.

## **What is Variable Aperture?**
Variable aperture enables a camera lens to modify the size of its opening, regulating the amount of light that hits the sensor. A broader aperture (lower f-number) allows more light in, enhancing low-light performance, while a narrower aperture (higher f-number) improves depth of field and clarity in bright settings.

Samsung had previously launched a version of this technology in the **Galaxy S9**, which could toggle between **f/1.5 and f/2.4**. However, this was a limited application compared to what rivals like **Xiaomi** have recently accomplished.

## **What We Know About the Camera of the Galaxy S26 Ultra**
As per a **Weibo post by Ice Universe**, there are rumors that Samsung is planning to incorporate **variable aperture** into the **primary camera** of the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Although the specific aperture range is yet to be revealed, comparisons are being made to **Xiaomi’s 14 Ultra**, which boasts an **f/1.63 to f/4.0** range.

Moreover, Samsung is said to be developing a **200MP telephoto sensor** with a **1/1.5-inch sensor size**, which could further improve zoom performance and overall image quality.

## **Potential Improvements to Photography**
Should Samsung roll out a **genuine variable aperture system**, users might gain enhanced control over their photography akin to professional cameras. Possible advantages include:
– **Enhanced Low-Light Performance**: A wider aperture (e.g., f/1.5 or lower) could result in brighter nighttime photographs.
– **Superior HDR**: A tighter aperture (e.g., f/4.0) could enhance sharpness and dynamic range in bright conditions.
– **Increased Creative Control**: Users could modify depth of field for portrait images, producing a more organic bokeh effect.

## **Is This Samsung’s Opportunity?**
Although the **Galaxy S9’s dual-aperture system** was a noteworthy innovation, it didn’t achieve broad acceptance. However, with the progress in computational photography and sensor technology, Samsung might now be positioned to fine-tune and build upon this idea.

If the speculation proves correct, the **Galaxy S26 Ultra** could establish a new benchmark for smartphone photography, providing users with enhanced flexibility and superior image quality. As we await formal confirmation, both photography aficionados and Samsung supporters will be keen to find out if this feature successfully returns.