XGIMI Unveils Horizon 20 Series at IFA with Google TV.

XGIMI has officially unveiled its new Horizon 20 series of home theater projectors at IFA 2025. This lineup, which includes the Horizon 20, Horizon 20 Pro, and the flagship Horizon 20 Max, brings significant upgrades over previous models, focusing on enhanced picture quality, integrated smart features, and a powerful new focus on gaming.

The New Benchmark in Home Theater.

The Horizon 20 series is engineered to deliver a premium viewing experience with support for some of the most sought-after video formats. All three models feature Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, and IMAX Enhanced, ensuring that content is displayed with exceptional brightness, color accuracy, and cinematic flair. The projectors also boast new optical features like lens shifting and optical zoom, providing users with greater flexibility and precision when setting up their home theater.

The most notable feature of the new lineup is the X-Master Red Ring lens, which, when combined with a new RGB triple laser light source on the Horizon 20 Max, allows the flagship model to achieve a cinema-grade brightness of up to 5,700 ISO lumens. This marks a significant leap from previous models and is designed to deliver a stunningly bright image even in rooms with ambient light.

Designed for Gamers.

XGIMI has made it clear that the Horizon 20 series is built with gamers in mind. In a strategic partnership with Ubisoft, the new projectors are being launched alongside the highly anticipated game, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows. The projectors are optimized for a superior gaming experience, featuring a low-latency gaming mode with an input lag as low as 1 ms, a 240 Hz refresh rate, and support for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).

As an incentive for early adopters, customers who pre-order a projector from the new series will receive a free projector stand and a game code for Assassin's Creed: Shadows.

Pricing and Availability.

The new Horizon 20 series projectors are available for pre-order, with full availability expected to begin on October 15, 2025. The pricing is as follows:

• Horizon 20: $1,699 (Early-bird price: $1,189)
• Horizon 20 Pro: $2,499 (Early-bird price: $1,749)
• Horizon 20 Max: $2,999 (Early-bird price: $2,399)

The company also hinted at a new enterprise-focused projector called "Titan," but details on its pricing and release date remain under wraps. With its impressive specs and a clear focus on both home entertainment and gaming, the Horizon 20 series positions XGIMI as a major player in the high-end projector market.

Google Revives 'Androidify' with AI, Turning Selfies into Bots.

Google has relaunched its popular 'Androidify' tool, this time with powerful artificial intelligence at its core. The new app, available on the web and as a standalone Android app, allows users to transform a selfie or a text prompt into a personalized Android bot.

How It Works: The Magic Behind the Scenes.

The new Androidify app is a showcase for Google's latest AI models. When you upload a photo, it first uses Gemini 2.5 Flash to analyze the image, generating a detailed caption that describes your appearance, clothing, and accessories. This detailed description is then fed to a fine-tuned version of Imagen 3, which creates a unique Android bot that reflects your style.

Alternatively, you can skip the selfie and simply enter a text prompt to design your bot from scratch. This gives you complete creative freedom to create a custom character.

The app also serves as a demonstration for developers, highlighting how to use modern Android development practices and libraries such as Material 3 Expressive components and the ML Kit Pose Detection API.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Android Bot.

Creating your own Android bot is a simple and fun process. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the App or Website: Download the Androidify app from the Google Play Store or visit the official Androidify website.
2. Start Creating: Upload a selfie or enter a text prompt to describe your desired bot.
3. Generate Your Bot: The app will use AI to generate your unique Android bot based on your input.
4. Customize and Share: Once your bot is created, you can personalize it by selecting from various formats (e.g., 1:1, Wallpaper, Banner), and backgrounds.
5. Animate Your Bot (Fridays Only): On Fridays in September, a limited number of users can animate their Android bot into an 8-second video using Veo 3, Google's video generation model.

You can then share your custom Android bot on social media using the hashtag #Androidify.

What Makes Androidify Stand Out?

The new Androidify experience is infinitely personal, letting you transform yourself into an Android bot in countless ways. Whether you upload a selfie or craft a fun, imaginative prompt, the AI ensures your creation feels unique and deeply customizable.

At the same time, the app is creative and fun, designed to be playful and expressive. It’s perfect for sharing with friends, showing off on social media, or simply giving your digital identity a fresh look.

For developers, Androidify is more than just a toy; it’s developer-friendly. The app has been built using the latest Android design frameworks and tools, offering a practical showcase of how modern Android UI and AI integration come together seamlessly.

And to top it off, Androidify adds a daily surprise factor. With weekly animation features powered by AI, users can see their avatars come alive, keeping the experience engaging and exciting every time they return.

Google Play Games Update to Publicly Display Your Gaming Activity.

A new update to Google Play Games is set to launch, with a primary focus on publicizing users' gaming activities. The update will transform the Google Play Games profile into a central hub, making your gaming journey visible to others.

Your Gaming Profile Becomes Public.

The upcoming changes, rolling out starting September 23, 2025, will make it easier for people to see what you play. Your updated profile will showcase aggregated statistics and progress tracking from your entire gaming history on Android, and with the option to import your past activity, your new profile will be a comprehensive public record of your gaming life.

This new feature is designed to help users build a gaming community. The public profiles will make it easier for people to see what games you play, what your achievements are, and what your stats look like, which is likely to encourage new connections among gamers.

What to Know About Your Data.

The new profiles will be accessible directly from the Google Play Store, making your gaming activity more visible to the wider Android community. While the update aims to enhance the social aspect of gaming, Google has stated that you will have full control over your data. This includes the ability to manage the visibility of your profile and data and the option to delete it entirely.

Google Teases Major Nest Cam and Gemini Updates for October.

Google has officially teased a new era for its smart home products, with a major announcement scheduled for October 1. The company's teaser confirms that new Nest Cam and Gemini updates are on the way, promising a significant evolution for the Google Home ecosystem.

The most anticipated reveal is a new generation of the Nest Cam. While Google's teaser image shows a redesign, with a new look for the camera sensor, prior leaks suggest more is coming. The new indoor Nest Cam is rumored to feature a 2K video update, a significant jump in resolution that would improve image clarity and detail. Updates to the outdoor camera and doorbell are also expected to be part of the announcement.

In addition to hardware, Google is also focused on software. The teaser confirms that "Gemini is coming to Google Home," indicating that Google's advanced AI model will be integrated into the smart home experience. A new Gemini-powered speaker is also expected to be unveiled. This integration is likely to enhance the capabilities of Google Home devices, offering more intuitive and intelligent interactions.

Is that you, Gemini? Come in and make yourself at Home 🏠

Sign up for updates: https://t.co/V85WgPJvQN pic.twitter.com/JJaVRW385A

— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) September 2, 2025

This forthcoming event on October 1 marks the first official teaser for a new generation of Nest Cam products and signals Google's commitment to bringing its AI innovations to the smart home.

Google Reassures Users, Reaffirms Gmail's Robust Security Following Misinformation.

In a recent blog post, Google addressed and refuted inaccurate reports circulating online about a supposed major security flaw in Gmail. The company clarified that claims of a widespread Gmail security warning are false and misleading, reaffirming the service's strong and effective security measures.

According to Google, Gmail's protections successfully block over 99.9% of phishing and malware attempts from reaching users' inboxes. The tech giant stated that its security teams are constantly investing and innovating to protect users from evolving threats.

Google's Recommended User Best Practices.

Beyond its own system-level defenses, Google's statement also provides a clear call to action for users, outlining simple but effective best practices to enhance their own security. The company specifically encourages two key measures:

• Embrace Passkeys: Google strongly recommends that users move beyond traditional passwords and adopt more secure alternatives like Passkeys. This technology provides a more secure and convenient way to sign into accounts, offering greater protection against phishing attacks.
• Learn to Spot Phishing: The company advises users to be vigilant and learn the tell-tale signs of a phishing attempt. By understanding how to identify and report suspicious emails, users can act as a crucial first line of defense against cyber threats that manage to bypass automated filters.

Google's detailed response aims to not only correct the record but also to empower its users with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain a high level of security in the face of ongoing online threats.

ICC and Google Partner to Elevate Women's Cricket.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) and Google have announced a new global partnership aimed at enhancing fan engagement and accelerating the growth of women's cricket. This collaboration will leverage Google's cutting-edge technology to bring fans closer to the game, players, and key moments.

The partnership, a first of its kind with an exclusive focus on women's cricket, is designed to make the sport more accessible, dynamic, and meaningful for fans worldwide. By utilizing a range of Google products, including Android, Google Gemini, Google Pay, and Google Pixel, the initiative will expand on every stage of the fan journey from discovering highlights to celebrating team victories.

A Strategic Move to Capitalize on Growth.

This announcement comes at a pivotal time for women's cricket, which is experiencing significant growth in viewership and popularity globally. The partnership is set to play a key role in promoting two major upcoming events: the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 and the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.

According to ICC Chairman Jay Shah, the collaboration will be instrumental in expanding the sport's global reach and inspiring the next generation of cricketers. The strategic use of Google's technology is expected to create new avenues for fan interaction and content consumption, helping to solidify women's cricket as a leading global sport.

What the Partnership Means for Fans.

The integration of Google's products will offer a more dynamic and personalized fan experience. For example, fans can expect to see enhanced features on Android, interactive content on Google Gemini, and seamless payment and engagement options through Google Pay. The partnership with Google Pixel will also likely lead to exclusive content and experiences that highlight the game's biggest stars.

By combining the ICC's commitment to the sport with Google's technological expertise, this collaboration promises to transform how fans engage with women's cricket, making it a more connected and celebrated sport on a global scale.

Google Home Adds Wi-Fi Presence Detection for Smarter Routines.

Google has introduced a new Wi-Fi presence detection feature to the Google Home app, enabling a more accurate and automated way to manage your smart home routines. This update, included in version 3.39 of the app, allows the system to determine if you are home or away simply by monitoring your mobile device's connection to your home Wi-Fi network.

This new capability enhances Google Home's existing suite of presence-sensing methods, which already includes using a phone's location data and triggers from smart home devices like motion sensors and voice commands.

How does it work?

The new Wi-Fi presence detection feature works by providing a simple, passive trigger for your "Home" and "Away" routines. For instance, when your phone disconnects from your home Wi-Fi, the Google Home app can automatically initiate an "Away Routine," a command that could turn off all lights, lock the doors, and adjust the thermostat to save energy. When your phone reconnects to the network, the app can then trigger a "Home Routine," which might turn on the lights, unlock smart locks, and set the temperature to your preferred comfort level.

This feature offers a reliable and seamless method for automating your home, as it relies on a consistent connection to the Wi-Fi network rather than the occasional location data updates from a phone's GPS. This could lead to fewer false triggers and a smoother, more efficient smart home experience.

Also Read: Google Acknowledges Home Assistant Glitches, Teases Major Gemini-Powered Upgrades.

Google Pixel 10 Users Report Wireless Charging Issues.

Early adopters of the Google Pixel 10 are reporting a series of issues with wireless charging, leading to inconsistent performance and slower-than-expected speeds. The problems appear to be related to the new device's compatibility with older wireless charging standards.

According to reports from early buyers, the primary issue is a failure to maintain a charge. Users are finding that their Pixel 10 devices will begin charging on a wireless pad, but the charging process stops unexpectedly after just a few seconds or a few minutes.

A second, related issue is a limitation on charging speeds. Many users are reporting that their phones are capping at a slow speed of around 5W, even on chargers that should be capable of delivering higher wattage. This has been observed on older Qi chargers, and even with the second-generation Pixel Stand, which was designed for previous Pixel devices.

The underlying cause for these issues is believed to be the Pixel 10's shift to the Qi2 Magnetic Power Profile (MPP). This new standard, which is also used in MagSafe chargers, may not be fully compatible with older chargers that use the Extended Power Profile (EPP). As a result, when a Pixel 10 is placed on an older charger that doesn't fully support the new standard, the device reverts to a slower, more universal charging speed or simply fails to maintain a connection.

For a reliable and fast wireless charging experience, the article suggests that users should use a Qi2-certified charger. This will ensure full compatibility and allow the Pixel 10 to charge at its maximum wireless speed.

Google has not yet issued an official statement or software update regarding these issues, but it's likely a fix or guidance will be provided as the company gathers more data from users.

Google Gemini Rolls Out Temporary Chats Option.

As Google announced earlier this month, Google is significantly enhancing user privacy and control in its Gemini app by introducing new features, including a "Temporary Chat" mode and more transparent data settings. This move is part of Google's ongoing effort to make its AI assistant a more personal, proactive, and powerful tool while giving users greater command over their data.

The Introduction of Temporary Chats.

The most notable new feature is Temporary Chat, a mode designed for quick, one-off conversations that users do not want to be saved. This feature, which functions similarly to an incognito window in a web browser, is ideal for exploring sensitive or private questions or brainstorming ideas outside of a user's usual topics.

Chats conducted in this mode will not appear in a user's recent chats or Gemini Apps Activity. Crucially, they will not be used to personalize a user's Gemini experience or to train Google's AI models. For technical purposes, the chats are saved for up to 72 hours to allow for feedback processing, after which they are permanently deleted.

Enhanced Data Controls and Personalization.

In addition to Temporary Chats, Google has also rolled out a new "Personal context" setting that allows Gemini to learn from past conversations. When this feature is enabled, Gemini remembers key details and preferences, leading to more relevant and natural responses. While this feature is on by default, users have full control and can easily turn it on or off at any time.

Furthermore, the "Gemini Apps Activity" setting has been renamed to a more straightforward "Keep Activity." This setting gives users granular control over whether a sample of their future uploads will be used to help improve Google's services. A new toggle has also been added to specifically control whether audio, video, and screen shares from Gemini Live are used for product improvement, with this setting off by default.

These changes collectively reflect a strategic balance between creating a more personalized AI experience and empowering users to make informed choices about their data. With these new tools, Google Gemini Boosts User Privacy with New Temporary Chats & Enhanced Data Controls.

Google Rolls Out Revamped Quick Share Interface for Android.

The long-awaited redesign of Google's Quick Share interface is finally beginning to roll out to Android devices. This significant update, which brings a refreshed look and new functionality, aims to streamline the file-sharing process and improve the overall user experience.

The new interface was first spotted on a Xiaomi 15 Ultra by Android expert Mishaal Rahman, signaling the start of a wider rollout beyond Samsung Galaxy devices, which have had a version of this design for some time. This is a welcome change for Google Pixel and other non-Samsung Android phone users who have been anticipating this update for months.

A Closer Look at the New Design

The most notable change is the introduction of a new, dedicated "Receive" tab. This tab simplifies the process of receiving files by providing a clear, separate screen that shows a list of devices that are currently attempting to share files with you. This is a major improvement over the previous, more cluttered design.

The "Receive" tab is complemented by a new "Sharing with you" section, which provides a clear overview of incoming files. This separation of sending and receiving functionality makes the Quick Share experience more intuitive and user-friendly.

On the "Send" screen, the interface has received a number of visual tweaks. The file picker now includes a preview of the selected media files, providing a visual confirmation of what you are sharing before you send it. This minor but effective change helps prevent accidental file shares and gives users more confidence in the process.

While the rollout is still slow and not yet available to all users, the appearance of the new interface on a variety of devices suggests that a broader, more public release is imminent. This update is a key step in Google's ongoing effort to create a more consistent and polished experience across the entire Android ecosystem.

Acer Unveils a New Google TV Box with a Wealth of Ports

Acer has announced a new 4K UHD streaming box running Google TV, which is notable for its extensive selection of connectivity ports. The device has appeared on a pre-order page in South Africa and marks a new entry into the Google TV hardware market.

The new box features a simple, plain white design with the Acer logo on the top corner. Its remote control is a familiar sight, closely resembling Google's typical reference design for its streaming devices. However, what sets this box apart from its competitors is its focus on connectivity.

A Port for Every Need.

Unlike many minimalist streaming devices on the market today, the Acer Google TV box is equipped with a wide array of ports, catering to users who require more than just a single HDMI connection. The device includes:

• Two USB-C ports
• One USB-A port
• HDMI port
• Ethernet port
• Optical audio output
• MicroSD card slot

This generous selection of ports provides users with the flexibility to connect various accessories, from external storage and webcams to wired network connections and legacy audio systems.

Under the hood, the device is powered by a "Quad core Amlogic CPU," identified as a likely Amlogic S905X5. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and, according to conflicting reports, comes with either 2GB or 3GB of RAM.

While the box is currently only available for pre-order in South Africa, its unique focus on providing a wide range of ports could make it a compelling option for a niche market of power users. A global release has not been confirmed at this time.

YouTube Music Redesign: Search Moves to Bottom Bar.

YouTube Music is undergoing a redesign on its Android app, moving the Search functionality to a new, more accessible position on the bottom bar. This change is currently being tested and has not yet been rolled out to all users.

Previously located in the top-right corner, the magnifying glass icon is being replaced. The new Search button, which now incorporates the functionalities of the old "Explore" page, is a two-tap action located on the bottom navigation bar. This change is designed to improve one-handed use of the app.

A Shift in YouTube Music UI Design.

The redesign sees the familiar magnifying glass icon for search being removed from the top of the screen, where it was previously nestled between the notification bell and the user's profile avatar. This is a deliberate shift in user interface (UI) design, moving a core function to a more reachable location for single-hand use.

The new "Search" button occupies a spot on the bottom bar, effectively replacing the compass icon that previously led to the "Explore" page. This strategic move enhances usability and consolidates two previously separate features.

The New "Search + Explore" Experience.

The new "Search" page is more than just a search bar; it's a unified hub for discovery and content search. It combines the full functionality of the old "Explore" page, presenting users with a search bar at the top, along with voice and song lookup shortcuts. Below this, users will find the curated genre and mood categories they were accustomed to on the "Explore" page. This integration streamlines the user journey, allowing for a seamless transition from browsing for new music to searching for a specific track.

One key aspect of this new design is the "two-tap" action. While the old search bar was instantly ready for text input upon a single tap, the new button on the bottom bar requires a second tap on the search bar itself to open the keyboard. The app will include a small introductory prompt to guide users through this change, explaining the new "Search + Explore" functionality and the need for the extra tap to begin typing.

Accessibility and Future Implications.

The update also extends the reach of the search feature, making it accessible from within the "Samples" section of the app. This consistency across different parts of the app's interface contributes to a more cohesive and user-friendly experience.

This redesign aligns with a broader industry trend toward bottom-bar navigation, which is particularly beneficial as smartphone screens continue to grow. By bringing crucial controls within easy reach of the thumb, Google is responding directly to the practical needs of its users. This change, while seemingly small, represents a significant refinement in the app's design, prioritizing user comfort and efficiency. It showcases Google's ongoing commitment to evolving its user interfaces to meet the demands of modern mobile habits.

Google Phone New "Wide Calling Card" Feature Arrives with Android 16 QPR1.

Google is rolling out a new "Calling Card" feature for its Phone app, allowing users to personalize their incoming call screen with a wide, full-screen image for specific contacts. The update, arriving in version 188 of the Google Phone app, is being launched alongside the Pixel 10 and in preparation for the Android 16 QPR1 release.

This new customization option is similar to a feature found on other platforms, but with a key difference: the personalized image and name are visible only to the user and do not affect how they appear to others. This gives users a new level of control over their personal calling experience.

How the Calling Card Feature Works.

Users will be greeted by a promotional banner at the top of the app’s Home tab, which introduces the "calling card" feature. From there, the customization process is straightforward:

• Image Selection: Users can choose an image from their device's gallery, take a new photo, or select one from their Google Photos library.
• Cropping and Framing: Once an image is chosen, it can be cropped and framed to fit the wide, full-screen format.
• Name Customization: The contact's name can also be customized with various font styles and colors.

Once set, the chosen image will appear as a full-screen background whenever that specific contact calls. This update is a move by Google to enhance the visual experience of the core calling function, making it more personal and engaging.

The Bigger Picture.

This update is part of a broader trend in which companies are adding more personalization and customization features to their core apps. For Google, this feature not only improves the user experience but also deepens the integration of Google Photos within the Android ecosystem.

The launch of this feature with the Pixel 10 and Android 16 QPR1 suggests that Google is continuing to refine and enhance the user interface across its devices, focusing on both aesthetic appeal and user-centric functionality.

Google Vids Adds AI Avatars and Launches Free Consumer Version.

Google is making waves in the world of video creation with significant updates to Google Vids. The platform, which has already surpassed one million monthly active users, is now rolling out AI avatars for seamless video production and introducing a basic, free version of its editor for all consumers.

Google Vids Ushers in a New Era of Video with AI Avatars.

In a move set to transform how teams communicate and collaborate, Google has officially launched AI avatars within its Vids video creation app. This highly anticipated feature, first announced at Google I/O, allows users to generate polished, narrated videos by simply writing a script and selecting a digital avatar to deliver the message.

The new AI avatars are designed to eliminate the common pain points of traditional video production, such as the hassle of coordinating with on-camera talent or managing multiple takes. This functionality is ideal for a wide range of corporate and educational content, including:

• Employee Training: Creating consistent and scalable training videos.
• Product Explanations: Delivering clear, concise demos and overviews.
• Company Announcements: Producing professional-looking messages from leadership or HR.

Users can choose from a selection of preset avatars, each with a distinct look and voice. The system automatically handles the delivery of the script, including appropriate pacing and tone, providing a fast and efficient way to create high-quality content without a camera or production crew.

Vids Now Free for Everyone.

While the advanced AI features remain part of Google Workspace and Google AI Pro/Ultra subscriptions, Google is now making the basic Vids editor available to all consumers at no cost. This move significantly broadens the platform's reach, making its user-friendly tools accessible to a wider audience.

The free version includes core editing capabilities, such as the timeline-based editor, and provides access to new templates for creating personal videos like tutorials, event invitations, and social media content. The free version integrates seamlessly with Google Drive, allowing users to easily import media and start creating.

Additional AI-Powered Enhancements

Beyond AI avatars, Google is rolling out several other generative AI features to enhance the Vids experience for its paid users:

• Image-to-Video: A new capability, powered by the Veo 3 model, allows users to transform static images into dynamic, eight-second video clips with sound using a simple text prompt.
• Transcript Trim: This smart editing tool uses AI to automatically detect and remove filler words and awkward pauses from a video’s transcript, significantly reducing editing time.
• Expanded Formats: Google confirmed that portrait, landscape, and square video formats are coming soon, ensuring content is optimized for various platforms like YouTube and social media.

Also Read: Google Drive Introduces New 'Vids' Shortcut for Seamless Video Editing.

Google Discover to Offer New Language Controls for Multilingual Users.

Google is rolling out a significant update to its Discover feed, introducing a new language selector that will give users unprecedented control over the languages of the content they see. This change, which is a major quality-of-life improvement for multilingual users, moves beyond the current rigid system to offer a more personalized and flexible experience.

For years, the Google Discover feed, which proactively surfaces personalized content, has been a source of frustration for many. While it often delivers articles and videos based on browsing history, its language settings have been notably restrictive. 

The feed's content is primarily tied to a device's main language, with the only way to filter other languages being to manually hide them one by one. This forces many users to choose between their preferred content language and their device’s system language, a common point of friction highlighted in various user forums and support communities.

Also Read: Google’s Discover Feed Gets AI Summaries, Alarming Publishers.

How the Discover New Feature Works.

The new interface, discovered in a beta version of the Google app (version 16.33.64), addresses this issue directly. A new setting for "Discover feed languages" will appear under the "Language & region" menu. Instead of a single selection, users will now be able to choose multiple content languages from a list of options. The update will also include "suggested languages" based on the user's activity. 

Image Credit: AndroidPolice

This allows a user to, for example, have their phone's system in English while still seeing news from a Spanish publication and tech articles from a German source, all within the same feed.

This change is not just about convenience; it's about making the Discover feed truly personal. For many around the globe, their online life and interests span multiple languages, and this update acknowledges that reality. It empowers users to curate a feed that genuinely reflects their interests, rather than one limited by a single language setting.

Implications for Content Creators.

This new feature also has significant implications for content creators and publishers. With users able to select specific languages, it becomes even more critical for creators to have a robust multilingual content strategy. 

Publishers who offer content in multiple languages may see increased visibility in new markets as Google's algorithm can now more accurately match their content with a wider, more diverse audience. As Google's systems for personalization become more granular, the quality and relevance of content will be more important than ever.

While the feature is not yet live for all users and its rollout timeline is not final, the discovery of this beta interface is a strong signal that Google is committed to making the Discover feed a more inclusive and effective tool for a global, multilingual audience.

Google to Require Developer Verification for All Android Apps to Combat Malware.

In a significant move to enhance user safety and combat the rise of malware and financial scams, Google has announced a new policy that will require all Android apps to come from a verified developer. This mandate, which is set to be implemented in stages starting in 2026, will extend beyond the Google Play Store to include apps installed via third-party stores and even sideloading.

This new requirement applies to certified Android devices that are preloaded with Google Play Protect. The goal is to make it significantly more difficult for malicious actors to anonymously distribute harmful apps. Google compares this process to an ID check at an airport: it confirms the developer's identity without reviewing the app's content or its source. This will help prevent the spread of "convincing fake apps" that often mimic legitimate services to trick users.

Initial developer access to the verification process will begin in October of this year, with the program opening to all developers in March 2026. The requirement will first go into effect for users in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026, as these countries have been particularly impacted by fraudulent app scams. A global rollout will follow in 2027.

Developers who distribute their apps outside of the Play Store will be able to use a new Android Developer Console to complete the verification process, ensuring they can continue to offer their apps directly to users while meeting the new security standards.

Google Pixel 10 Live Translate Breaks the Language Barrier.

Image Credit: Google

Key Highlights.

• A new feature called "Voice Translate" is available exclusively on the Pixel 10, translating with the speaker's natural voice.
• The Live Translate feature supports 23 languages for text messages and in-person conversations.

In an increasingly connected world, language can often be a barrier. Fortunately, Google has been at the forefront of breaking it down with the Live Translate feature on its Pixel phones. This powerful tool leverages on-device AI to provide real-time translation for a variety of scenarios, from casual chats to international travel.

Live Translate goes beyond simple text translation. Here’s how it works and what it can do for you:

Seamless Real-Time Conversations.

The most groundbreaking aspect of Live Translate is its ability to translate conversations in real-time. Whether you're on a phone call or speaking to someone in person, the feature provides a fluid, natural-sounding translation. Thanks to the power of the Tensor chip in Pixel phones, a new on-device feature called Voice Translate (exclusive to the Pixel 10) ensures that the speaker's original voice tone and inflection are preserved, removing the stiff, robotic feel often associated with translated calls.

For in-person conversations, Live Translate acts as an interpreter, allowing you to speak naturally while your Pixel provides the translation. When paired with Pixel Buds, the new "Conversation Mode" enables a seamless two-way dialogue, making it feel like you're speaking the same language.

Translate on the Go.

Beyond spoken words, Live Translate is integrated with the Pixel Camera and Google Lens, allowing you to simply point your phone at text to get an instant translation. This is incredibly useful for navigating a foreign country, from reading menus and street signs to understanding documents. Best of all, many of these features can work offline, so you don't need a data connection to use them. And Pixel 10 is the first Google device to launch with support for voice and video calls over a satellite network through WhatsApp.

Private and Secure Messaging.

For digital communication, the feature transcribes and translates messages in real-time within popular chat apps for over 23 languages. Since these translations are processed directly on your device, your private conversations remain secure.

By making communication easier and more natural, Live Translate empowers users to connect with a wider range of people, from family members across the globe to neighbors and colleagues from different countries. It's a testament to how Google's AI can be used to foster a more inclusive and connected world.

Google Pixel 10 Series to Launch with WhatsApp Satellite Calls.

Google is set to make a significant leap in mobile connectivity with the upcoming release of the Pixel 10 series. The company has announced that the new lineup, which includes the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL, will be the first of its devices to offer voice and video calls over a satellite network. This groundbreaking functionality will be integrated directly through WhatsApp.

This is a major step forward for satellite connectivity on Google's devices. While previous efforts have been limited to text-based communication through Google Messages, the Pixel 10 will now support a full-fledged calling experience in areas without traditional cell service. This puts the Pixel 10 series ahead of competitors, as even other satellite services are currently restricted to basic messaging.

The new feature is expected to be available with the official launch of the Pixel 10 series on August 28th. While this is a first for the Pixel family, it is currently unclear if the functionality will eventually roll out to older Pixel models. It is speculated that this could be a possibility, as the feature involves Google unlocking data access for WhatsApp via satellite, but no official confirmation has been provided.

#Pixel10 has you covered on and off the grid 📍 Pixel devices will be the first to offer voice and video calls on @WhatsApp over a satellite network starting 8/28¹ 🌍 pic.twitter.com/6yDSDMskkK

— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) August 22, 2025

It's important to note that the service will likely be tied to specific carriers and may incur additional charges, as is typical with satellite-based services. Despite these potential limitations, the addition of satellite voice and video calls makes the Pixel 10 a more compelling device for users who prioritize staying connected in remote locations. For WhatsApp, this partnership is a strategic move to boost its presence and utility in the US market.

Google Password Manager Gets a Standalone App on the Play Store.

Google has made it significantly easier for Android users to manage their saved passwords by releasing the Google Password Manager as a standalone app on the Play Store. Previously, accessing the tool required users to navigate through several layers of their device's settings, a process many found cumbersome and difficult.

The new app, which is described as a convenient shortcut to the existing, built-in password manager, eliminates the need for this deep menu dive. While it doesn't introduce a new password management service, its accessibility and convenience are a major improvement for users who rely on Google to save their credentials.

A Fresh Look with Material 3 Expressive.

The standalone app fully embraces Google's new Material 3 Expressive design language. This gives the app a vibrant and modern feel, with key visual changes that improve usability. The interface now features a new search app bar and pill-shaped filters for sorting credentials by Passwords, Passkeys, and Network devices, offering a more intuitive way to manage your data. It also fully adopts Dynamic Color, allowing the app's accent to match your device's theme for a more personalized experience.

Beyond Convenience: A Focus on Security and Features

This release is more than just an accessibility fix; it's a strategic move by Google to compete with dedicated password managers like LastPass and Bitwarden, which have long dominated the Play Store. By making the app visible in search results, Google aims to attract new users and highlight its built-in security features.

While Google's Password Manager offers powerful integration with Chrome and Android, it's important to note some key differences from its competitors. The service does not use zero-knowledge encryption, which means Google technically holds the keys to your data. Additionally, it lacks a master password requirement, instead relying on your device’s screen lock for security.

However, it offers powerful built-in protections, including:

• Password Checkup: Proactively scans your saved passwords against known data breaches and alerts you if any are compromised.
• Passkey Support: Allows you to use passwordless, biometric logins on supported websites and apps, a feature Google is heavily promoting as the future of authentication.
• Cross-Device Syncing: Seamlessly syncs your passwords across all devices signed into your Google Account, including laptops and tablets.

The app is currently available for all Android users, but Google has not yet announced plans for a similar standalone app on iOS.

Also Read: Gboard Update Brings Direct Autofill for Passwords & Credit Cards.

YouTube Rolls Out Limited Video Downloads to Free Users.

Key Highlights.

• Free YouTube users can now download videos, but only at low-quality resolutions like 144p and 360p.
• The new download feature does not include music videos, which remain a YouTube Premium exclusive.

YouTube is testing a major change to its platform by bringing a previously exclusive YouTube Premium feature to free users: video downloads. This update, which appears to be a limited rollout, allows non-paying users to download videos for offline viewing directly from the app, but with several key restrictions.

The new functionality has been spotted by users on Reddit, and we have also checked, confirming that the "Download" button is now appearing for some free accounts. While this is a welcome addition, it's important to note the major differences from the full-featured download capability available to Premium subscribers.

For free users, the download quality is significantly limited to lower resolutions, primarily 144p and 360p for most of the videos. This is a stark contrast to the 1080p and 720p options available to Premium members. Furthermore, the ability to download music videos remains an exclusive perk for YouTube Premium subscribers. This is likely due to licensing agreements and royalty payments to artists.

This new download feature, despite its limitations, is a notable change for free users who want to watch videos without an internet connection, such as during travel. While the quality may not be ideal for all content, it's a useful tool for podcasts, tutorials, or other videos where high definition is not a priority.

It's a clear move by Google to offer a taste of a Premium feature to a wider audience while still encouraging users to upgrade for the full, unlimited experience, which includes ad-free viewing, background play, and high-quality downloads. The company has not yet officially announced the feature, but its gradual rollout suggests it may become a permanent part of the free YouTube experience.

In a related update for paid subscribers, YouTube is also expanding its AI-powered search carousel for Premium users, adding another layer of smart features to the platform.