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Initial Glimpse of Google’s Anticipated Icon Shape Personalization for Pixel Devices

# Android 16 May Reintroduce Icon Shape Customization in Pixel Launcher

## A Long-Awaited Feature Makes Its Comeback

Android users have consistently enjoyed extensive customization options, ranging from backgrounds to widgets and even alternative launchers. Yet, one aspect that vanished after Android 12—customizable app icon shapes—could finally be returning with Android 16.

The recent **Android 16 beta** indicates that **Pixel Launcher** might soon permit users to modify their app icon shapes without using third-party launchers. This represents a notable change, as Google had earlier removed this functionality without any clarification.

## What’s New in Android 16?

Reports from **Android Authority** and Android specialist **Mishaal Rahman** reveal that a new **”App Shape & Layout”** menu has been identified in the latest Android 16 beta. Within this menu, users can:

– Modify the **home screen grid size** via the “Layout” tab.
– Select from **six unique icon styles**, including:
– **Circle** (default)
– **Square**
– **Four-sided cookie**
– **Seven-sided cookie**
– **Arch**
– **Complex clover**

These choices offer a blend of rounded and geometric designs, granting users greater control over their home screen aesthetics.

## How Will It Operate?

Once activated, the chosen icon shape will be applied to:
✅ The **home screen**
✅ The **app drawer**
✅ **Folders**

However, icons appearing in the **Recents page** and **Settings menu** will persist in their default circular design. Furthermore, **adjusting icon sizes** is not an option at this time.

## Why Is This Significant?

Google’s **Pixel Launcher** has largely stayed the same over time, even while other platforms have adopted more comprehensive customization features. The reintroduction of **icon shape customization** is a welcomed enhancement, particularly for those seeking a more tailored home screen experience.

Previously, Pixel users had to turn to **third-party launchers** such as **Nova Launcher** or **Niagara Launcher** to adjust their icon appearances. Should this feature reach the final version of Android 16, it could reduce the reliance on external applications for fundamental customization.

## Will It Be Included in the Final Release?

Although this feature is currently hidden in the **Android 16 Beta 3 build**, there’s no assurance it will be part of the final release. Google has a track record of evaluating features that don’t always make it to market.

Nonetheless, with **Android 16 anticipated to debut around May or June**, it won’t be long until we find out if **Pixel Launcher’s icon customization** is here to remain.

### What are your thoughts? Would you take advantage of this feature, or do you still favor third-party launchers? Share your opinions in the comments! 🚀

AYANEO Unveils Imminent Launch of Its Premier Gaming Handheld

# Is It Time for a Fresh Flagship Android Gaming Handheld?

The handheld gaming sector has experienced a revival in recent times, with gadgets such as the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go transforming portable gaming. Nonetheless, while Windows-based handhelds have garnered attention, Android gaming handhelds have yet to forge a true flagship model. With the anticipated launch of the **AYANEO Pocket S2**, the question surfaces: Is the time ripe for a new flagship Android gaming handheld?

## The AYANEO Pocket S2: A New Challenger

AYANEO has been leading the charge in high-end handheld gaming devices, and its most recent announcement reveals that the **AYANEO Pocket S2** will be officially revealed on **March 17, 2025**, at the **Game Developers Conference (GDC)**. This new device follows the **AYANEO Pocket S**, which was unveiled in late 2023 and hit the market in June 2024.

Although specifics are still limited, AYANEO has indicated that it is rejoining forces with **Qualcomm** for the chipset. This implies that the Pocket S2 will likely incorporate Qualcomm’s newest gaming platform, possibly a successor to the **Snapdragon G3x Gen 2**, which powered the initial Pocket S.

## Expectations for the Pocket S2

Despite the lack of significant leaks or speculation regarding the **AYANEO Pocket S2**, we can venture some informed predictions based on its predecessor and the existing trends in Android gaming handheld devices.

### **1. New Qualcomm Gaming Chip**
The most notable upgrade confirmed is the **new Qualcomm gaming platform**. The original Pocket S was the first device to feature the **Snapdragon G3x Gen 2**, which provided good performance but faced challenges from Windows handhelds. If Qualcomm rolls out a **G4x Gen 1** or a comparable next-gen chip, we could witness substantial enhancements in power efficiency and graphical capabilities.

### **2. Display Improvements**
The **AYANEO Pocket EVO**, which launched just six months ago, showcased a **165Hz OLED display**, raising the bar for Android gaming handhelds. If the Pocket S2 strives to be a genuine flagship, it ought to provide at least a **120Hz refresh rate**, even if it opts for an **LCD panel** rather than OLED.

### **3. Design and Comfort**
The original Pocket S boasted a **compact and stylish design**, but some users deemed it less comfortable for prolonged gaming sessions. AYANEO may improve the **grip and button arrangement** to boost comfort while preserving the **premium construction**.

### **4. Software and Game Enhancement**
A significant hurdle for Android gaming handhelds is **software optimization**. In contrast to Windows-based handhelds, which can run complete PC titles, Android handhelds depend on **mobile games, cloud gaming, and emulation**. If AYANEO collaborates with developers to optimize titles for its hardware, the Pocket S2 could become a more attractive choice.

### **5. Pricing and Market Strategy**
The **AYANEO Pocket S** debuted at **$589**, while the **Pocket EVO** began at **$529**. Considering AYANEO’s high-end positioning, the **Pocket S2 is likely to be priced similarly or even higher**. However, the company frequently offers **pre-order discounts** via Indiegogo, making it more reachable for early purchasers.

## The Demand for a Genuine Flagship Android Gaming Handheld

While products like the **AYANEO Pocket S, Razer Edge, and Logitech G Cloud** have tried to establish their presence, none have truly dominated the Android gaming handheld marketplace. The primary obstacles include:

– **Scarce Exclusive Games**: Unlike the **Nintendo Switch** or **Steam Deck**, Android handhelds lack exclusive titles that validate their existence.
– **Software Fragmentation**: Numerous Android games are tailored for smartphones, creating compatibility challenges on dedicated gaming handhelds.
– **Rivalry from Windows Handhelds**: Devices such as the **Steam Deck and ROG Ally** provide complete PC gaming experiences, making them more enticing for serious gamers.

For the **AYANEO Pocket S2** to thrive, it must **set itself apart** with **superior hardware, well-optimized software, and a captivating game library**.

## Conclusion: A New Chapter for Android Gaming?

With the **AYANEO Pocket S2** scheduled to launch at **GDC 2025**, the Android gaming handheld landscape might finally witness a true flagship device. Should AYANEO and Qualcomm fulfill their commitments, the Pocket S2 could establish a new benchmark for **performance, display excellence, and gaming experience**.

However, the principal challenge remains **game optimization and software backing**. Without a robust ecosystem of optimized games, even the most advanced hardware might find it difficult to make a significant impact.

As we count down to the official announcement, one

Garmin Forerunner 975 and 275: An Essential Evaluation of the Brand’s Creativity and Market Position

# Does Garmin Still Possess Truly Functional Running Tools, or Will the Forerunner 975 and 275 Depend on Hardware Tricks?

Garmin has established itself as a leading player in the realm of running watches, providing sophisticated training tools and dependable performance assessment. With the eagerly awaited arrival of the **Garmin Forerunner 975 and 275**, many runners are curious if these new iterations will bring valuable advancements or merely depend on minor hardware enhancements and eye-catching novelties.

As Garmin moves into a post-AMOLED phase, the pivotal question remains: **Does Garmin still have innovative and practical features for dedicated runners, or is it running short on new concepts?** Let’s examine what to anticipate from these forthcoming models.

—

## **The Current Landscape of Garmin’s Running Watches**
Garmin’s Forerunner series has consistently been popular among runners, providing **precise GPS tracking, comprehensive performance metrics, and sturdy training tools**. The **Forerunner 965**, launched in 2023, was widely acclaimed for its **AMOLED screen, multi-band GPS, and superior training analytics**. However, as most of these functionalities have become standard in Garmin’s offerings, the company now faces the challenge of presenting something genuinely novel with the **Forerunner 975 and 275**.

Recent Garmin launches, like the **Instinct 3 and Fenix 8**, have concentrated on **hardware improvements** such as **flashlights, enhanced sensors, and UI refinements**. While these are beneficial, they don’t necessarily transform the running experience. The true challenge for Garmin will be whether it can roll out **new software capabilities** that truly augment training and performance tracking.

—

## **What Lies Ahead for the Forerunner Series?**
### **1. The Post-AMOLED Approach**
Garmin’s shift to **AMOLED displays** across various product lines has marked a significant transition. The **Forerunner 265 and 965** were the pioneers in featuring AMOLED screens, establishing a new benchmark for display quality. However, with AMOLED now considered standard, the question is: **What’s next?**

Possible advancements could comprise:
– **MicroLED screens** for enhanced battery efficiency and outdoor visibility.
– **More user-friendly UI enhancements** for better usability.
– **New mapping functionalities** for improved route planning and navigation.

### **2. Anticipated Features for the Forerunner 975**
The **Forerunner 975** is projected to be a **high-end running and triathlon watch**, positioned just below the Fenix series. Following Garmin’s recent trajectories, we can foresee:
– **Elevate v5 sensors** for superior heart rate monitoring, ECG, and skin temperature measurements.
– **An integrated flashlight**, akin to the Fenix 8 and Instinct 3.
– **A microphone and speaker** for Bluetooth calls and offline voice assistant capabilities.
– **LTE connectivity**, facilitating safety tracking, messaging, and potentially music streaming.
– **Enhancements in battery life**, especially for multi-band GPS operation.

One of the most significant potential enhancements could be **a new GPS chipset or antenna design** for even greater tracking precision. While Garmin’s existing GPS performance is commendable, any progress in **satellite connectivity and accuracy** would be a valuable addition.

### **3. The Forerunner 275: A Reliable Yet Solid Upgrade**
The **Forerunner 275** is expected to be a **mid-range running watch**, delivering a mix of affordability and capability. Nevertheless, Garmin has a tendency to **restrict premium features to higher-tier models**, so we shouldn’t anticipate too many revolutionary changes.

Anticipated upgrades include:
– **AMOLED display**, continuing the legacy of the Forerunner 265.
– **Modest battery enhancements**, though nothing dramatic.
– **Possibly fresh training metrics**, like **Endurance Score or Strava Live Segments**.
– **Refined UI features**, but likely no substantial software overhauls.

However, Garmin will probably **reserve mapping functionalities and high-end materials for the Forerunner 975**, maintaining a clear differentiation between the two models.

—

## **Will Garmin Unveil New Software Innovations?**
A significant concern among Garmin enthusiasts is whether the brand is **running low on fresh ideas** for training tools. The **Forerunner 965** already boasts features such as:
– **Chronic Load tracking**
– **Real-time Stamina assessment**
– **Advanced cycling metrics**
– **Heat acclimatization evaluation**

So, what could Garmin introduce to make the **Forerunner 975 and 275** differentiate themselves?

### **Possible Software Upgrades:**
1. **AI-Driven Coaching:**
– Garmin could unveil **AI-based training insights**, similar to what companies like **Whoop and Oura** are providing.
– A **Garmin Coach chatbot** might offer **tailored workout suggestions** based on

Android 16 Brings Surprising Upgrades for Gamers

# **Shifting Focus to Vulkan Could Be the Right Choice**

## **Google’s Major Transition to Vulkan for Android Gaming**

As the gaming sector continues to progress, the underlying technologies are evolving too. With the Game Developers Conference approaching, Google has already revealed a significant update: **Vulkan is now the standard graphics API for Android**. This indicates a substantial departure from OpenGL, which has long been the primary graphics API.

For developers, this transition opens up a plethora of advanced rendering capabilities, including **ray tracing and multithreading**, which can greatly improve the visual quality and efficiency of mobile games. But what implications does this have for gamers, particularly those using Android gaming handhelds? Let’s analyze it.

—

## **Why Choose Vulkan Instead of OpenGL?**
OpenGL has been a cornerstone in graphics rendering for many years, yet Vulkan presents multiple benefits that align it more closely with contemporary gaming:

– **Enhanced Performance**: Vulkan is engineered to fully utilize multi-core processors, resulting in heightened efficiency and smoother gameplay.
– **Sophisticated Graphics Features**: With features like ray tracing, Vulkan facilitates more lifelike lighting and reflections, enhancing the immersive quality of games.
– **Reduced CPU Demand**: Vulkan lowers the strain on the CPU, contributing to improved frame rates and more intricate game worlds.
– **Cross-Platform Usability**: Vulkan operates across various platforms, including Android, Windows, and Linux, simplifying the process for developers to create games that function smoothly on multiple devices.

By adopting Vulkan as the default API, Google is positioning future Android games to capitalize on these advantages, resulting in a **more enjoyable gaming experience for users**.

—

## **Effects on Android Gaming Handhelds**
While high-end Android smartphones are likely to experience immediate enhancements from this transition, the implications for **Android gaming handhelds** are more nuanced. Many of these devices utilize older Android versions, which may not provide full support for Vulkan.

### **Android Versions and Gaming Handhelds**
Currently, most Android gaming handhelds operate on **Android 11 to Android 14**, with a few even shipping with Android 10. This is primarily due to hardware limitations and manufacturer support. For instance:
– **Retroid Pocket 5** functions on **Android 13** but is equipped with an older Snapdragon 865 processor.
– **Pimax Portal** and **Retroid Pocket Mini** continue to rely on **Android 10**, with limited prospects for updates.
– **AYN Odin 2** and **AYANEO Pocket EVO** boast **Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and G3x Gen 2**, making them more likely to take advantage of Vulkan.

With **Android 16** anticipated to establish Vulkan as the default, handhelds running older systems may miss out on these enhancements unless makers roll out updates.

—

## **Will Gaming Handhelds Upgrade to Android 16?**
A primary concern is whether **manufacturers of gaming handhelds will upgrade their devices to Android 16**. Traditionally, many of these companies have been sluggish in issuing updates, often leaving devices locked on previous versions.

However, if Vulkan emerges as a significant factor for performance and compatibility, there may be **incentives for manufacturers to refresh their devices**. This could result in:
– **Enhanced performance on newer chips** like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
– **Better game compatibility**, especially for titles optimized for Vulkan.
– **A more cohesive gaming experience across Android gadgets**.

Although some manufacturers could be hesitant to implement updates due to costs and development obstacles, there is optimism that at least one company will take initiative and launch an **Android 16 update for its handhelds**.

—

## **The Influence of Custom Android Skins**
Another important aspect is that many gaming handhelds employ **custom Android skins**. These interfaces often bring in **specialized gaming functionalities**, such as:
– **Tailored launchers** (e.g., AYANEO’s distinctive interface).
– **Additional hardware buttons and controls**.
– **Tools for performance optimization**.

While these customizations enhance the gaming experience, they can also complicate **software updates**. Manufacturers must ensure that their unique features remain compatible with Vulkan and Android 16, potentially delaying the updating process.

—

## **Implications for the Future of Mobile Gaming**
Google’s choice to establish Vulkan as the default API is a **courageous decision that has the potential to transform mobile gaming**. Should developers fully adopt Vulkan, we might witness:
– **Visually captivating mobile games** featuring advanced graphics.
– **Superior performance across Android devices**, inclusive of gaming handhelds.
– **A move away from OpenGL**, positioning Vulkan as the standard for Android gaming.

Nevertheless, the success of this transition will hinge on **how promptly manufacturers and developers respond**. If gaming handheld producers do not upgrade their devices, they could be left behind as Vulkan-enabled games become standard.

—

## **Concluding Thoughts**
Google’s promotion of Vulkan is a thrilling advancement that could **revolutionize mobile gaming**.