Google Messages Beta Introduces QR Code Key Verification.

Image Credit: 9to5Google

Google is rolling out a new security feature to its Messages beta users that simplifies the process of verifying a secure, end-to-end encrypted connection. The update introduces a QR code-based system, replacing the cumbersome 80-digit code method, making it easier for users to confirm they are communicating with the intended contact.

The new feature, which was previewed last year, is beginning to appear in the latest Google Messages beta builds. To access it, users can tap on a contact's name within a conversation, navigate to the "Details" page, and then select "Verify encryption". This opens a "Security & privacy" sheet with a new option to "Verify keys for this contact".

Instead of comparing a long string of numbers, users can now simply scan a QR code on their contact's device. This streamlined process aims to make the benefits of end-to-end encryption more accessible and user-friendly. The previous 80-digit code option remains available for those who prefer it.

Google has stated that this unified system for public key verification will eventually be available for third-party applications as well, marking a significant step towards a more secure messaging ecosystem on Android. The feature is expected to roll out to the stable channel later in 2025 and will be compatible with devices running Android 9 and above.

Also Read: Google Messages Gets Full‑Screen “Details” Page.

Google Pixel 10 Series: A Deeper Dive into the On-Device AI Revolution.

Gone are the days when AI was confined to the cloud. With the launch of the Google Pixel 10 series, a new era of on-device artificial intelligence has arrived, putting unprecedented power, privacy, and personalization directly in your hands. Powered by the groundbreaking Tensor G5 chip, the Pixel 10 is more than just a smartphone- it's a smart companion that understands and anticipates your needs. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the groundbreaking AI capabilities that will change how you use your phone.

Live Voice Translation.

One of the most impressive features of the Pixel 10 is Voice Translate, which completely redefines real-time communication. This functionality allows for seamless, live translation during phone calls, eliminating language barriers in real-time. During a live demonstration, the feature fluidly translated a conversation between a native English speaker and a Spanish speaker. What makes this particularly remarkable is not just the accuracy of the translation but its ability to replicate the nuances of each person's voice and tone.

Since Voice Translate operates directly on the device, conversations remain private and secure, without the need to be sent to a cloud server. This on-device processing also ensures an instantaneous response, with no lag between speakers. For users, this means effortless communication for both personal and professional calls, with a live transcript available for review, ensuring no detail is lost in translation.

The Proactive Power of Magic Cue.

Forget a static digital assistant; the Pixel 10 introduces Magic Cue, a proactive AI that works in the background to anticipate your needs. Magic Cue intelligently scans your various apps-from Gmail and Calendar to Messages, to find relevant information without you having to ask.

For example, if a friend texts you to make dinner plans, Magic Cue can recognize this and automatically surface a pre-existing dinner reservation from your calendar, suggesting it as a possible location. This AI is not just a search tool; it's a contextual awareness engine that simplifies your digital life by bringing forward the information you need, exactly when you need it.

A Smarter Camera: From Text Prompts to Pro Shots.

Photography on the Pixel 10 is elevated with powerful AI features that are both creative and educational. Users can now harness the full power of Gemini by using simple text commands to edit their photos. Want to change the lighting, remove an object, or apply a specific style? Just type your request, and the AI will make the adjustments with precision. This marks a new era of generative photo editing that is both powerful and intuitive.

For aspiring photographers, the Camera Coach is a revolutionary on-device tool. This AI acts as a personal mentor, providing step-by-step instructions on how to achieve the perfect shot. Whether you need guidance on framing a portrait or mastering a long exposure, the Camera Coach analyzes the scene and provides real-time tips to help you capture stunning, professional-quality photos.

Your Personal Journal and Voicemail Assistant.

The Pixel 10 also introduces several other AI-powered applications that enhance productivity and self-reflection:

• Pixel Journal: This app uses on-device AI to provide personalized writing prompts and offer insights into your daily habits and patterns. It goes beyond a simple diary, becoming a tool for personal growth and self-discovery by intelligently analyzing your entries.
• "Take a Message": A brilliant quality-of-life feature, this AI automatically transcribes voicemails from missed calls. More than just transcription, it also intelligently identifies and presents any next steps or important information from the message, ensuring you can quickly follow up on urgent matters without ever needing to listen to a voicemail.

These new features collectively demonstrate Google's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a smartphone can do. By moving AI processing to the device, the Pixel 10 series delivers a faster, more personal, and more secure user experience, setting a new standard for intelligent mobile technology.

Also Read: Google Pixel 10 Series to Launch with WhatsApp Satellite Calls.

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.

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

Google is enhancing its Drive and Workspace suite with a new, highly requested feature that will streamline user video editing. A new "Open" button is being rolled out to the video preview screen in Google Drive, providing a direct shortcut to edit videos using the Google Vids app.

This update eliminates the tedious process of downloading a video from Drive, editing it in a separate application, and then re-uploading the new file. A simple click launches the video directly into the Google Vids editor, making quick trims, text additions, and other edits faster and more efficient.

The new feature is currently rolling out to Google Workspace users, including those on Business Starter, Standard, and Plus plans, as well as Enterprise, Essentials, and Nonprofits. It is also available to users with the Gemini Education and Gemini Education Premium add-ons, and those with Google AI Pro and Ultra subscriptions.

How to Use the New Video Editing Shortcut

Using the new Vids shortcut button is straightforward. Here are the steps to get started:

1. Navigate to Your Video: Open Google Drive on your computer and locate the video file you wish to edit.
2. Open the Preview: Click on the video file to open its preview window.
3. Find the Shortcut: In the top right corner of the video preview screen, look for a new "Open" button.
4. Launch Google Vids: Click the "Open" button. Your video will automatically be imported into Google Vids in a new browser tab.
5. Edit Your Video: Once in Google Vids, you can use the available tools to trim clips, add text overlays, insert music, and make other adjustments.

Important Note: When a video file is opened in Vids, a new Vids file is created. After you finish editing, you will need to save or export the video as a new file (e.g., as an MP4) to your Drive. Additionally, there are some limitations: individual clips can be up to 35 minutes long and have a maximum file size of 4GB.

This new feature represents Google's continued effort to improve video capabilities across its platform, following other recent updates like the enhanced video player and the Gemini AI video summary tool. In another related update, Google is also adding video thumbnail previews to the progress bar in Drive's video player, making it easier to scrub through your footage.