# **Tech News Weekly: The Key Highlights from the Week**
Greetings from this week’s **Tech News Weekly**, where we present a summary of the most important updates in technology. From the launch of Google’s new smartphone to regulatory hurdles in the EU, here are the leading stories that caught attention.
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## **Introducing the Google Pixel 9a in a New Design**
Google has unveiled the **Pixel 9a**, its newest affordable smartphone. The updated version sports a **refreshed design**, stepping away from the conventional Pixel aesthetic. It features a **6.3-inch pOLED display**, which is **35% brighter** compared to the earlier Pixel 8a.
Highlighted specifications include:
– **Tensor G4 processor**
– **Ships with Android 15**
– **7 years of operating system and security updates**
– **5,100mAh battery** (larger than the standard Pixel 9)
– **48MP main camera, 13MP ultra-wide lens, and 13MP front camera**
– **Starting price: $499**
However, pre-orders have been postponed due to a **component quality issue**, with sales anticipated to commence in April.
[Discover more about the Pixel 9a here](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google/pixel-9a-arrives-with-a-fresh-new-look).
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## **EU Commission Accuses Google of Violating the Digital Markets Act**
The **European Commission** has charged Google with violating the **Digital Markets Act (DMA)**, which aims to curtail tech giants from giving preference to their own services over those of competitors.
The Commission’s initial findings point to two main concerns:
1. **Google Search favors its own services** over third-party options.
2. **Google Play Store limits app developers** from guiding users to more economical payment methods outside of Google’s ecosystem.
In response, Google contends that the DMA regulations are **detrimental to European businesses and consumers**, rather than encouraging fair competition. The company is currently in discussions with the EU to resolve these issues.
[Learn more about the EU’s decision regarding Google here](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/eu-commission-finds-that-google-search-and-play-store-fail-to-comply-with-dma).
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## **Samsung Reveals Release Date for One UI 7**
Samsung has announced that **One UI 7**, its newest Android software update, will start to roll out on **April 7** in South Korea. Users in the U.S. will receive the update on **April 10**.
The initial devices set to receive One UI 7 include:
– **Galaxy S24 series**
– **Galaxy Z Fold 6**
– **Galaxy Z Flip 6**
Other eligible Samsung devices will follow with the update in the upcoming weeks.
[Read more about One UI 7 here](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/samsung-will-be-releasing-one-ui-7-on-april-7).
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## **Verizon Introduces Satellite Texting for Android Devices**
Verizon has revealed its plans to roll out **satellite texting** to select Android devices. This capability will enable users to **send text messages in areas lacking cellular coverage**.
Initially, the feature can be utilized on:
– **Samsung Galaxy S25 series**
– **Google Pixel 9 series**
The full rollout is expected to take **two weeks** to become operational.
[Get more details about Verizon’s satellite texting here](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/verizon-wireless/verizon-satellite-texting-us-customers-first-select-phones).
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## **Pebble Smartwatches Are Making a Comeback**
Pebble, the cherished smartwatch brand, has returned with two new models under the **Core Devices** umbrella:
1. **Time 2** ($225) – Comes with a **1.5-inch e-paper display**, heart rate tracking, sleep monitoring, and an **IPX8 water resistance rating**.
2. **Core 2 Duo** ($149) – Features a **1.2-inch black-and-white e-paper display**, a 30-day battery life, and a **lightweight polycarbonate build**.
Both timepieces are compatible with **thousands of Pebble apps** and are available for pre-order.
[Find out more about the new Pebble smartwatches here](https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/core-devices-core-2-duo-time-2-pebble-watches-launch).
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## **Additional Noteworthy Tech Stories This Week**
Here are some other stories that deserve a look:
– **[Why the Google Pixel 9a left out the camera bar](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google/why-google-pixel-9a-ditched-camera-bar)**
– **[Huawei’s latest flip phone blurs the boundaries of foldables](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/huawei/huawei-pura-x-foldable-launch-details)**
