Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

How Google Connected the File-Sharing Divide by Merging Quick Share with AirDrop

**It’s similar to the substantial RCS initiative between Android and iPhone, but for your documents.**

In a pivotal step to improve cross-platform functionality, Google has unveiled a new update for its Pixel 10 series that enables Android’s Quick Share to operate effortlessly with Apple’s AirDrop. This advancement is reminiscent of the recent RCS (Rich Communication Services) merger between Android and iPhone, intended to enhance messaging experiences. Consequently, file sharing between these two platforms is poised to become simpler.

**Key points to remember:**
– Google has allowed its Pixel 10 series to transmit files from Quick Share to iPhones through AirDrop.
– Users need to adjust their devices to “Everyone for 10 minutes” to enable file exchanges between Android and iPhone.
– Google intends to expand this functionality to more Android devices, widening the range of cross-platform file sharing.

This update, which starts to roll out today, underscores Google’s dedication to promoting better interoperability between Android and iOS devices. The firm assures users that this feature has been designed with security in mind, having undergone thorough evaluation by independent security specialists.

The initiative follows Apple’s recent incorporation of RCS on iPhones with iOS 18, which enhanced messaging between Android and iOS by introducing functionalities such as read receipts and higher-quality images. This was a notable advancement, aligning with Google’s #GetTheMessage campaign that champions improved messaging standards.

The partnership between Google and Apple in advancing file sharing and messaging mirrors a growing trend towards cross-platform integration, promising a more cohesive user experience across different devices. As this update is implemented, users can anticipate a more seamless interaction between their Android and iOS devices, creating a sense of greater connectivity than ever before.

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“Discovering the Ease of Qi2 Magnetic Charging with the Pixel 10 and Anker’s Slim MagSafe Power Bank for Alleviating Battery Worries”

When discussing portable chargers, I’ve grown used to the particular kind of power bank that I must hold in my hand, balancing it while attempting to use my phone, or having it awkwardly stick out from my pocket with a long cable extending to charge my phone. Neither option is especially appealing, but MagSafe and Qi2 come to the rescue.

I recently obtained the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K), and it’s been a delight to use with my Pixel 10. It is relatively slim, features a quite substantial battery, and is extremely easy to carry when you require additional power. However, even though there are still reasons to appreciate non-MagSafe portable chargers, this Qi2 model has provided me with insight into the genuine advantage of MagSafe, and I’m eager to see its future developments.

What’s more, the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) is currently on sale for Black Friday, marking the second occasion I’ve seen it at a discount, making it even more attractive for anyone looking to purchase one.

Undoubtedly, the most compelling feature of the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) is its sleek design. The charger is .34 inches thick, which is about as slim as the Pixel 10. Yes, it basically doubles the phone’s width, but it’s far less jarring considering the thickness of the Pixel 10’s camera module.

Anker’s marketing materials for this charger predominantly highlight the iPhone Air, which is quite a bit thinner. Nevertheless, when holding a phone that slender, battery longevity might already be a concern, and a charger that’s somewhat bulkier but equipped with a larger battery seems like a reasonable compromise.

Regarding the actual magnetic connection, it is exceptionally strong, and I’ve never experienced any issues with the charger detaching from the Pixel 10 unless I intended for it to.

Another significant advantage of the charger being slim is that it fits more comfortably in a pocket. Unlike other portable chargers, which are often quite bulky and cumbersome, the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) is compact, lightweight, and the best representation of “portable” I’ve encountered in a charger.

The Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) charges wirelessly at 15W and includes a 5,000mAh battery capacity, aligning with the higher end of many top Android devices. That is sufficient to provide a decent charge when required, although you shouldn’t anticipate it to fully recharge your battery.

This is due to the inefficiency of wireless charging, meaning the power bank typically depletes before my Pixel 10 receives a complete charge. Nevertheless, it should suffice for most users, especially as a backup option. Additionally, the charger does get somewhat warm during use, but not alarmingly so.

Moreover, you can utilize the USB-C port for power output, with a maximum of 20W. While not the quickest, it should prove faster and more efficient compared to wireless charging, as indicated in the chart above.

It also allows for 20W input charging, which is fairly decent, though it entails waiting close to two hours for a full recharge. There is no screen to indicate your current charge status, but four small lights at the bottom fulfill that purpose, which can be activated by pressing the side button.

There are clear disadvantages to having a charger this slim, the primary one being the relatively small capacity. With other power banks, I’m accustomed to having a capacity of at least 10,000mAh, which delivers at least one complete charge and more. Given the increasing battery capacities of top Android phones, I cannot expect a full charge from the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K), though I still find it helpful for additional power when necessary.

The charging speed also leaves something to be desired, yet it’s not terribly sluggish, particularly if you choose the USB-C method (which somewhat undermines the concept of having a magnetic portable charger).

To address this, Anker provides a 10,000mAh version of the MagGo Power Bank that not only doubles the capacity but also accommodates up to 30W charging through USB-C, in addition to 15W wireless charging. However, at .58 inches, this charger is considerably thicker and doesn’t feel like something I’d like to attach to the back of my phone.

Still, it’s an alternative for anyone looking to gain a bit more from their portable MagSafe charger, and there’s even another 10,000mAh model that features the same capacity and a small display on the side (though it’s even thicker at .78 inches).

On the flip side, if you’re prepared to sacrifice the convenience of a magnetic connection, the Anker Nano Power Bank has served me well and has become my new preferred portable charger. It boasts a retract…

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Guide for Selecting the Finest Smart Display Glasses During Black Friday Discounts

This holiday season, Xreal, Viture, and RayNeo are all vying for your choice, but similar to selecting a starting Pokémon, there’s only one optimal pick.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Are you looking to snag affordable smart display glasses this Black Friday? The great news is that you don’t need to wait! All three of our top-rated smart glasses are currently on sale a full week in advance of Black Friday starting, but how do you decide among them?

Each pair of glasses offers a substantial wearable OLED display in a sleek design, letting you connect them to your smartphone, Steam Deck, laptop, or a variety of other gadgets. This gives you a personal, private screen without straining your neck. Whether you seek the finest image quality, the lowest cost, or the most extensive compatibility, I’m here to assist you in making the best choice right now.

Top overall smart display glasses

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Gemini AI Now Incorporated with Android Auto for Improved Vehicle Intelligence

From your brainstorming partner to your guide, Gemini is here for you.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google integrates Gemini AI into Android Auto for upgraded driving assistance and multitasking features.
  • Gemini facilitates smooth communication and sophisticated task management, enhancing user experience during travel.
  • The AI boosts entertainment options, crafting playlists and providing local information while driving.

Google is finally implementing its Gemini intelligence into Android Auto, marking a significant enhancement! It was showcased during Google I/O, and it seems that some users on Reddit began noticing signs of the rollout earlier this month.

Today, the company has officially declared that Android Auto will be globally integrated with Gemini (Nov. 20). With Gemini in your vehicle, you will be able to accomplish more during your commute. This means you can engage in lengthy discussions with it while completing more complex tasks. For example, Gemini can serve as your guide and local authority, fully incorporated into Google Maps.

Gemini will assess reviews to provide business insights, respond to frequent queries, and assist users in locating and navigating to local destinations. If you say, “Hey Google, I need

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Savings of as much as $150 Offered on Garmin’s Leading Two Prior-Generation Timepieces

The Garmin holiday promotion provides considerable discounts on popular smartwatch models, making it an ideal moment for athletes and fitness enthusiasts to enhance their gear without overspending. While the newest models like the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 965 are on offer, the Venu 3 and Forerunner 265 emerge as budget-friendly options that still deliver a complete range of training tools.

The Garmin Forerunner 265, available for $299 at Best Buy, is a flexible choice for outdoor athletes. It comprises features such as training load focus, daily running recommendations, and Garmin’s dual-band GPS for accurate tracking. With a battery life of 13 days, it’s aimed at those dedicated to boosting their performance without requiring the extra features of the Forerunner 965, like offline maps.

For indoor athletes, the Garmin Venu 3, priced at $349, combines style with functionality. It boasts Garmin’s fifth-generation Elevate sensors, which provide ECGs, skin temperature insights, and precise heart rate readings. The Venu 3 also facilitates Bluetooth calling and phone assistant commands, rendering it a versatile option for individuals who appreciate both fitness tracking and smart capabilities.

Both the Forerunner 265 and Venu 3 have received high recommendations in their respective categories, presenting a mix of affordability and functionality. They might miss some of the advanced features available in newer models, yet they offer all the essentials required for most athletes to monitor their development and realize their fitness ambitions.

With the present discounts, these models provide a fantastic opportunity for those eager to step into the Garmin ecosystem or elevate their current devices without selecting the newest and priciest alternatives. Whether you’re a runner, hiker, or someone who enjoys indoor training, the Venu 3 and Forerunner 265 deliver strong features that accommodate a broad array of fitness requirements.

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Honor Introduces Groundbreaking ‘Robot Phone’ at Global Event, Captivating Visitors

No one anticipated it, but there it appeared. Honor’s Robot Phone made an unexpected debut at an international event, where attendees could capture images of the device encased in glass. The device showcased its gimbal camera tilted upward, emphasizing the main feature of the phone; however, the camera bar appears fairly thick from the side angle. Honor began teasing the Robot Phone following its Magic 8 announcement, framing the phone and its AI-powered camera as an intriguing gadget capable of taking photos, recording videos, and much more.

Honor’s intriguing phone teaser underscored a “new” form factor designed to elevate how individuals and their mobile devices connect. Publications and tech creators on Weibo (Chinese) have been sharing real-world images of the previously hinted Honor Robot Phone (via GSMArena). Allegedly, the device was displayed in an all-glass enclosure (likely a prototype) during the Honor User Carnival event in China. A variety of Honor products were showcased, including the Magic 8 series, but the subject everyone was discussing was the Robot Phone.

From the Weibo post, the Robot Phone appeared in a white color variant with its unique camera raised. The camera is integrated within its camera array on the rear, but when elevated, it revitalizes the device along with its AI functionalities. In terms of design, the Robot Phone resembles the Magic 8 series, featuring rounded corners, a flat profile, and potentially an entirely flat display.

The Weibo report includes a statement (machine-translated) from Honor’s CEO, Jian Li, who remarked, “A technology company lacks vitality without a touch of innovation. ROBOT PHONE is merely a new venture for mobile devices. In the future, glory across various industries will evoke pride in users.”

Another Weibo user shared additional insights into the Robot Phone with detailed close-ups. We can observe the substantial size of the gimbal-like camera, along with the space created within the phone for its integration. This model, presented in a black variant, offers a clearer view of its thickness. As anticipated, the phone appears to be quite bulky, especially around the rear camera array, due to the flip-up camera.

When Honor introduced its Magic 8 series, the company also hinted at something new: the Robot Phone. Although no one quite understood what that meant, the company’s main page was updated to highlight the device in an AI-generated video. It portrayed the phone as a fascinating device, equipped with a flip-up camera that can respond to what you (the user) observe and do. The design also bears a striking resemblance to the Apple iPhone 17 Pro, particularly in the appearance of its camera bar.

The introduction also poses a question: “What if a device could exist with the extraordinary intelligence of AI, instantly perceiving the world around you?”

It appears that the device can capture photographs for you, record videos on your behalf, and much more, simplifying the process of creating memories. Honor even showcased the phone aiding a woman in selecting a dress she might enjoy for the evening. This is all thrilling, and the Robot Phone’s overseas debut was a surprise, but this isn’t all we can anticipate.

Honor announces that it intends to fully reveal the Robot Phone during MWC Barcelona in 2026.

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Samsung’s XR Smart Glasses: Equipped with Transition Lenses and Integrated Camera

Might pose a strong challenge to Meta’s latest smartglasses.

(Image credit: Gilberto Tadday / TED)

Essential Information

  • The forthcoming smart glasses from Samsung, model SM-O200P, include transition lenses and integrated camera features.
  • This device does not have a mobile data connection but offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options.
  • Earlier revelations hint that the glasses might come with a 12MP camera and a Qualcomm processor.
Note

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Samsung Expands Software Assistance for Certain Mid-Range Smartphones and Tablets

Reports indicate that Samsung is broadening the software support for various mid-range Galaxy A-series smartphones and tablets, providing users with an extended lifespan for their devices. As per the information, the Galaxy A56 and A36 models, along with the Galaxy Tab A11 and A11 Plus, will now benefit from software support for a duration of up to seven years, prolonging their functionality until 2032. Nevertheless, this extension mainly pertains to security updates, while Android OS updates remain limited to six years, until 2031.

This decision is in line with Samsung’s approach for its premium Galaxy S25 series, which also guarantees seven years of updates, incorporating both Android OS and security fixes. The extension is intended to bolster the durability and value of Samsung’s mid-range offerings, enhancing their competitiveness in the marketplace.

The Galaxy A56, which was released in the U.S. in July at a price point of $499, boasts a 6.7-inch FHD Plus Super AMOLED screen, a set of three cameras, and a 5,000mAh battery. It also brings forth Samsung’s Awesome Intelligence, introducing AI capabilities such as Object Eraser and Best Face to its mid-range devices.

This boost in support exemplifies Samsung’s dedication to delivering improved value for its mid-range clientele, ensuring they continue to receive regular security updates and assistance, akin to what is available to flagship users, even though the Android OS updates remain limited.

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Best Screen Protectors for OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15, featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2, delivers strong defense for its 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED screen. Nonetheless, to improve its resistance to possible breaks and fractures from unintended falls on hard surfaces, using a screen protector is advisable. Even with the durability of Gorilla Glass Victus 2, it might not resist blows from concrete or marble floors. Therefore, securing a quality screen protector is essential for preserving the integrity of your device’s display.

Various choices exist to enhance your OnePlus 15’s screen security. The Orzero OnePlus 15 3 Pack Screen Protector, for example, includes three tempered glass protectors with rounded edges for complete coverage, along with three camera lens protectors. This bundle is highly rated and offers excellent value.

For those who favor an official accessory, the OnePlus 15 Anti-Reflection Tempered Glass Screen Protector is a suitable option, though it’s currently restricted to specific regions. It boasts an anti-reflective coating and snug fit with no front camera cutout.

The Nillkin Amazing H+ Pro presents a mid-tier alternative with an oleophobic coating to resist liquids and smudges, crafted from premium Japanese AGC glass.

For an all-encompassing solution, the Thinborne 600D Aramid Fiber Magnetic Case comes with a complimentary tempered glass screen protector, offering both display and case defense in one package.

Finally, budget-minded consumers may look into the Natbok 2 Pack, which provides two sets of screen and camera lens protectors made from 9H tempered glass, delivering basic protection at a low cost.

In summary, while the OnePlus 15’s display is naturally resilient, a screen protector is a sensible investment to guard against unexpected mishaps, ensuring your device stays in impeccable condition.

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Amazon’s Black Friday Sale Provides 44% Discount on Highly Rated Wireless Headphones for Battery Performance

Black Friday arrives early, with the Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones seeing a $200 price reduction.

For those on the hunt for an exceptional headphones deal, Amazon’s Black Friday sale might be just what you need. The retailer has slashed 44% off the price of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones, recognized as our top choice for the best battery life. Originally priced at $450, this offer reduces the cost by $200, making them much more competitive against other brands.

The Momentum 4s provide an astonishing 60 hours of battery life, alongside Sennheiser’s high-quality audio performance, active noise cancellation, and a variety of modern, useful features. In addition to their outstanding battery life, the Momentum 4 headphones feature multi-point connections and intuitive touch controls for volume and playback management. Their exceptional design also adds to their value, and getting them at nearly half off is truly a win.

Amazon’s early Black Friday specials feature an impressive $200 discount on Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 wireless headphones, which are known for having the longest battery life of any model we are aware of. This represents a 44% price cut, bringing them to an affordable level where they provide exceptional value.

✅Recommended if: you seek a set of high-end wireless headphones without the usual hefty price; you desire the wireless headphones with the longest battery life available, and you want them at a substantial discount; you need a comfortable wireless headphone option with larger ear cups that comfortably encompass most people’s ears.

❌Skip this deal if: you’re after a low-cost headphone option and you don’t mind sacrificing features like ANC, EQ settings, or premium sound quality; you require a headphone with a more advanced EQ system than a three-band EQ; you prefer the chance to customize controls on your headphones.

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 wireless headphones stand out in today’s headphone market, offering a plethora of features and high-quality audio that consumers tend to appreciate. Perhaps the most notable advantage of the Momentum 4s is their exceptional battery longevity, delivering up to 60 hours of playback time on a single charge.

Additionally, they feature ANC, touch controls, high-resolution audio through the headphone jack, auto-pause functionality when taken off, and straightforward touch controls via the right speaker. They also come with a user-friendly Sennheiser mobile app, allowing users to adjust ANC settings, a three-band EQ, and more.

Unlike some wireless models, they possess a foldable design for easy storage, along with a carrying case for the headphones, an aux cable, and a USB-C charging cable.

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