### A Summary of This Week’s Most Notable Google/Android News
Welcome to Android Central’s News Weekly, where we present a compact summary of the key Google and Android-related stories from the last week. This week has been filled with thrilling announcements, captivating developments, and some unexpected news. Let’s jump into the highlights.
#### 1. **High-Priced New Garmin Smartwatches Have Arrived**
Garmin has created quite a stir this week by introducing two new flagship smartwatches: the Garmin fenix 8 and the Enduro 3. Additionally, the company has revealed the sunset of its beloved Epix series, indicating a shift in its product direction.
– **Garmin fenix 8**: The fresh fenix 8 series is available in both MIP and AMOLED versions, featuring a robust design with “leakproof metal buttons” and a dive rating of 40 meters. The fenix 8 Solar boasts an outstanding battery life of up to 48 days, while the AMOLED model can last for up to 29 days. Athletes will value the new “Advanced Strength Training” capability, which provides tailored plans for various sports.
– **Garmin Enduro 3**: Designed for endurance, this model offers a remarkable battery life of up to 90 days on a single charge. It includes a titanium bezel, sapphire lens, and a 1.4-inch MIP display. The Enduro 3 also comes equipped with preloaded topographic maps, advanced strength training features, and ECG readings for AFib detection.
Both watches are positioned at the premium price point, with the fenix 8 priced at $999 and the Enduro 3 at $899. These new models reinforce Garmin’s standing as a leader in the high-end smartwatch sector.
#### 2. **TECNO Introduces an Impressive Tri-Fold Phone**
TECNO has caught the tech community off guard with the debut of an innovative tri-fold phone concept, the Phantom Ultimate 2. This device may make the Galaxy Z Fold 6 seem outdated.
– **Phantom Ultimate 2**: The device begins with a 6.48-inch screen that can expand to a 10-inch AMOLED display. It can be arranged in various configurations for different scenarios, like media consumption, multitasking, and live translation. Despite its tri-fold design, the phone only measures 11mm thick when folded, making it slimmer than the Galaxy Z Fold 6. Although TECNO has yet to disclose all specifications, it does include a triple camera array on the back.
This concept phone highlights TECNO’s creative approach and could establish a new benchmark for foldable devices going forward.
#### 3. **Pixel 9 Pro XL Undergoes Teardown Analysis**
The Pixel 9 Pro XL has been subjected to a teardown by iFixit, uncovering some intriguing insights about Google’s latest flagship.
– **Teardown Insights**: The teardown revealed that while disassembly is relatively straightforward, there are some questionable design choices. For instance, the display was harmed during removal, although the dual-entry design indicates that removing the screen is not necessary to replace the battery. However, the battery itself proved difficult to extract, which raises concerns regarding the phone’s long-term reparability.
Android Central’s senior editor Jerry Hildenbrand voiced skepticism about the phone’s durability, especially considering Google’s assurance of seven years of software updates.
#### 4. **Pixel 9 Thrives with Wet Hands**
One of the standout features of the Pixel 9 series is its capability to operate effectively with wet hands, thanks to a new display feature known as Adaptive Touch.
– **Adaptive Touch**: This feature automatically modifies touch sensitivity based on your environment, activities, and screen protector. While it does not specifically mention wet hands, testing has demonstrated that the Pixel 9 performs well under such conditions. This makes the Pixel 9 a fantastic option for users in wet climates, especially since the phone also boasts water resistance.
This feature enhances the usability of the Pixel 9, solidifying its place in the competitive smartphone market.
#### 5. **Gemini AI Makes a Comeback**
Google’s Gemini AI is reemerging with the capability to generate images of people, albeit with certain limitations.
– **Image Generation**: Following initial backlash, Google is reinstating the feature to generate images of people within Gemini apps. However, the company has implemented restrictions on creating photorealistic, identifiable individuals, portrayals of minors, and overly gory, violent, or sexual scenes. This feature will initially be accessible to Advanced, Business, and Enterprise users.
– **Gems**: Google is also introducing “Gems,” customized versions of Gemini that businesses can adapt for specific functions, such as a gym companion, sous chef, or coding ally. This feature offers a more tailored AI experience, addressing the distinct needs of various users.
