AllYouCanTech

Google Home App Upgrade Boosts Rapid Controls and Sophisticated Automations

The recent update for Google Home is more than just superficial changes.

Google Suggests Remediation Strategy to Tackle EU Regulators After €2.95 Billion Penalty

And divestment is not included.

The EU Probes Google’s Spam Policy Following Worries from the Search Behemoth Regarding Possible Damage to Millions of European Users

Here’s all the information from Google regarding its anti-spam regulations, currently under investigation by the European Union.

Key points to note

– The European Commission is assessing whether Google’s anti-spam regulations in Search breach the Digital Markets Act.
– Publishers have raised concerns with the EU that Google’s guidelines have led to reduced income, prompting the launch of an investigation.
– Google has stated that the investigation is “misguided” and poses a risk of harming millions of users across Europe.

On Thursday, Nov. 13, the European Union initiated an antitrust investigation into Google’s anti-spam regulations in Search, as reported by Reuters. This inquiry is part of the Digital Markets Act and follows complaints from publishers that the practices used by the search engine have resulted in diminished revenue. Conversely, Google asserts it is combating a strategy known as “parasite SEO” to enhance search results for its users.

“We are troubled that Google’s guidelines do not ensure that news publishers are treated fairly, reasonably, and without discrimination in its search results,” remarked Teresa Ribera, the EU’s antitrust chief, in a statement to Reuters. “We will probe to guarantee that news publishers are not missing out on crucial revenues during a challenging period for the industry and to ensure Google adheres to the Digital Markets Act (DMA).”

Google clarifies that parasite SEO, or site reputation abuse, endangers users and attempts to undermine the brand’s search algorithms. According to the company, spammers aim to publish content on well-regarded sites to achieve higher rankings in search results. This can lead to low-quality or fraudulent content being prioritized over more relevant results in Google Search.

“We have collaborated with the European Commission on a variety of initiatives to safeguard European consumers, including efforts to combat scams under the Digital Services Act. Unfortunately, the inquiry announced today concerning our anti-spam initiatives is misguided and poses a risk to millions of users in Europe. Additionally, the investigation lacks justification: a German court has previously dismissed a similar claim, ruling that our anti-spam policy was legitimate, reasonable, and applied uniformly.” – Pandu Nayak, Chief Scientist of Search at Google

The anti-spam regulations demote content that attempts to enhance its rankings by compensating brands or employing deceptive tactics, as outlined in a Google blog post. Google further asserts that these anti-spam strategies benefit websites that refrain from using misleading and “spammy” techniques. It ensures that parasite SEO outputs do not rank higher in search results than “websites competing fairly based on their original content.”

“Google’s anti-spam strategy is crucial to our efforts against deceptive pay-for-play tactics that undermine our results,” Nayak explains in the blog post. “Google Search is designed to display reliable outcomes, and we are extremely concerned about any initiatives that could diminish the quality of our results and impact how we rank websites.”

What is the plan moving forward?

The European Commission will now examine whether Google’s anti-spam regulations contravene the DMA. Breaches can be financially detrimental for major tech firms, as the EU may impose fines reaching up to 10% of their annual global revenue for violations.

Google App Launches Images Tab on iOS and Android: Functions and Features

Google is upgrading its Search application for iOS and Android by adding a specialized Images tab, aiming to emphasize visual content. This latest addition presents a Discover-like feed of images customized to user preferences and activities, enabling users to explore, share, save, or start new searches based on the visual content they come across. The Images tab is crafted to help users find inspiration and delve into images, evolving over time with changing interests. Positioned at the bottom of the Google app homepage, it offers a tailored experience akin to Google Discover or Pinterest. Users can save images into collections and utilize them to uncover related content. This enhancement is part of Google’s wider initiatives to improve its app’s capabilities, including newly introduced AI-driven shopping functionalities, as the holiday season nears. The Images tab is being rolled out in the U.S. and will become accessible to all iOS and Android users in the upcoming weeks.

Factors Contributing to the Postponed Release of OnePlus 15 for American Customers

Attribute the postponement to the U.S. shutdown.

Thorough Insight and Desired Features for the OnePlus 16

With launch cycles speeding up, Android manufacturers are introducing their smartphones quicker than ever before. For example, the OnePlus 15 was globally revealed on November 13, 2025, merely 10 months after the OnePlus 13’s release.

Now that the OnePlus 15 is out, the Chinese brand is diligently working on next year’s model. There isn’t a lot of information available about the OnePlus 16 at this stage, but as usual, we can make some informed predictions.

Having experienced the OnePlus 15, I hope for several improvements in the OnePlus 16, particularly regarding its design and camera features. I will be updating this article in the coming months as more details emerge about the OnePlus 16, but for now, here’s what we know and what I’d like to see in OnePlus’ upcoming flagship.

OnePlus 16: I desire a distinct design

I’m not a fan of the OnePlus 15’s design — it appears too standard and lacks the unique characteristics that made previous models pop. While I understand that phone aesthetics in general are converging towards a boxy style reminiscent of iPhones, various brands have successfully established their uniqueness; Google’s Pixel 10 Pro XL showcases a more pronounced camera bar, Samsung’s distinct camera accents are innovative, and Vivo consistently launches phones with substantial camera modules.

With OnePlus, I find their identity lacking. If anything, the OnePlus 15 comes off as a subpar imitation of the Find X8, and I prefer the OnePlus 16 to bear resemblance to the OnePlus 13 — at least that model featured a memorable design.

I want enhanced cameras on the OnePlus 16

Admittedly, the OnePlus 15 possesses decent cameras, handling most situations adequately. In fact, it competes well with the Pixel 10 and Galaxy S25.

Nonetheless, it falls short compared to its Chinese competitors, as both the Find X8 and Vivo X300 offer significantly better camera performance. The issue here is that OnePlus is utilizing older camera modules, with the main camera featuring a smaller sensor compared to last year’s model.

I fail to see the rationale behind this decision, and while the device captures marginally improved images compared to the OnePlus 13, the difference is hardly substantial.

Then there’s the absence of Hasselblad integration. OnePlus originally partnered with Hasselblad, so not seeing the renowned Swedish camera company’s enhancements on the OnePlus 16 is frustrating. Instead, the device is equipped with a new DetailMax engine, and whoever named it clearly missed the mark.

With the OnePlus 16, the company must at least include camera sensors comparable to those of its Chinese competitors.

OnePlus 16 will likely feature these specs

It’s easy to speculate that the OnePlus 16 will be equipped with Qualcomm’s next flagship chipset, and that the phone will support a large battery. Truthfully, my favorite aspect of the OnePlus 15 is its impressive 7,300mAh battery, and I hope this feature continues next year.

We will also probably see the same 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage in the base model, and I would like to see the 1TB version launched worldwide — I still can’t grasp why this is exclusive to China.

OnePlus 16 may launch as early as before

While I currently have no information on the potential launch date for the OnePlus 16, it will likely follow the same timeline as this year. This suggests a launch in China at the beginning of Q4, followed by a global release later in the same quarter.

Of course, OnePlus may opt to advance the timeline, meaning the OnePlus 16 could arrive sooner. As it stands, there aren’t many details regarding the device, but I will update this post as new information comes to light.

Comparison of OnePlus 15 and Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus: Assessing Unadulterated Performance and AI Features

The OnePlus 15 is now available, featuring remarkable specifications, yet Samsung’s software ecosystem remains hard to surpass.

The OnePlus 15 has officially launched, showcasing an array of remarkable features that will undoubtedly attract tech lovers. With its mighty Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and a substantial 7,300mAh battery, the OnePlus 15 guarantees swift and enduring performance. Its newly developed internal camera processing system intends to improve photography, despite lacking in camera hardware compared to its earlier version. The phone’s aesthetic is more understated, stepping away from the bold designs of previous iterations.

Even with these improvements, Samsung’s software suite continues to be a strong rival. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, delivers a solid software experience with One UI 7, which can be upgraded to One UI 8. Samsung’s Galaxy AI suite, paired with Gemini integration, offers a well-rounded and intuitive interface that many find difficult to resist.

When assessing both models, the OnePlus 15 excels in hardware capabilities, particularly for gaming aficionados, given its high refresh rate display and gaming-centric enhancements. However, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Plus provides a more consistent and dependable software experience, supported by a promise of seven years of Android OS updates, positioning it as a safer option for extended use.

Regarding design, the OnePlus 15 adopts a flat and boxy aesthetic, in line with contemporary flagship trends, whereas the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus persists with a sleek and minimalist style. The OnePlus 15’s display, although reduced to 1.5K resolution, possesses a 165Hz refresh rate, appealing to gamers. On the other hand, the Galaxy S25 Plus features a sharper QHD+ AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.

In the end, the decision between the OnePlus 15 and Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus hinges on personal preferences. The OnePlus 15 attracts those in search of state-of-the-art hardware and gaming performance, while the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus is suited for users who value software reliability and durability. Both devices present distinct advantages, positioning them as powerful contenders in the smartphone arena.

Android to Improve Facial Authentication Technology

Metalenz’s Polar ID: A Revolutionary Shift in Secure Face Unlock for Android

Within the sphere of smartphone security, face unlock functionalities have frequently been eclipsed by fingerprint sensors due to doubts regarding their reliability and safety. Nonetheless, Metalenz, a U.S.-based fabless optics enterprise, is set to alter this narrative with its groundbreaking Polar ID technology, which is currently in mass production and ready for integration into Android smartphones.

Polar ID signifies a major leap forward in facial recognition technology. In contrast to earlier attempts, such as Google’s Soli on the Pixel 4 or Huawei’s ToF sensors, Polar ID employs a distinctive imaging framework that harnesses polarization sensing. This method not only bolsters security but also guarantees a more dependable face unlock experience.

A key highlight of Polar ID is its condensed design. The technology employs a singular meta-optic lens accompanied by an IR illuminator, leading to a reduced module size. This design decision enables smartphone manufacturers to integrate the technology without requiring larger cutouts on devices, thus preserving sleek and contemporary aesthetics.

Metalenz has already showcased the efficacy of Polar ID on a Snapdragon reference device, suggesting seamless compatibility with Android phones utilizing Qualcomm’s silicon. This adaptability implies that the shift toward widespread deployment could be fairly smooth for manufacturers.

The fabrication of Polar ID modules is being executed in partnership with Taiwanese fab UMC, utilizing a 40nm node. As stated by Metalenz CEO Rob Devlin, the technology is “prepared to satisfy the requirements of high-volume consumer electronics,” indicating assurance in its scalability and readiness for the marketplace.

As Android device producers contemplate integrating Polar ID into their offerings, the prospect of a more secure and efficient face unlock solution becomes ever more concrete. With Metalenz’s technology now in mass production, the horizon of facial recognition on Android devices appears bright, presenting users with enhanced security without compromising on design or functionality.

Spotify Introduces Lossless Audio in India at a 40% Increased Price Compared to Apple Music, Tripling the Costs of Previous Plans

I must inquire — who will opt for Spotify lossless instead of migrating to Apple Music?

Four-Month Evaluation: The Distinctive Excellence of the Fiio M21 Digital Audio Player and Its Desktop Mode

With the introduction of the M21, Fiio may have released its finest digital audio player to date, highlighting affordability as a primary selling feature. The M21, retailing at $329, presents an enticing offering for audio fans. It boasts a compact 4.7-inch screen and a 4,000mAh battery, operating on Android 13, which is a notable advancement over numerous other players that are still on outdated Android versions.

The M21’s appearance is distinctly different from earlier models, featuring a frosted glass surface that ensures a comfortable hold while resisting smudges and scratches. At 193g, it is lighter than both the M23 and M15S, but still achieves high build quality thanks to its aluminum framework.

This player includes a 3.5mm jack, a balanced 4.4mm output, and USB-C technology, featuring a dedicated USB-C port for desktop mode, which allows the device to utilize USB power rather than drawing from its internal battery. Additionally, the M21 supports a MicroSD card slot and comes equipped with pogo connectors for connecting to a distinctive cassette case, which adds a nostalgic element and provides physical controls for music playback.

Powered by the Snapdragon 680 with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, the M21 features four Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips and a tailored TI OPA1692 amplifier. It is compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 using the AptX suite and offers a neutral sound profile with a slight warmth, producing clear mids and vibrant lows.

In summary, the M21 excels in its design, audio performance, and power, establishing itself as a formidable player in its segment. Its cost-effectiveness, paired with Fiio’s renowned sound and contemporary features, positions it as an appealing choice for those in search of a premium digital audio player.