Latest news with #technews
Forbes
15 hours ago
- Forbes
Google Chrome Updates To Stop On August 5 For 300 Million Android Users
Google confirms it will stop updateng Chrome for 300 million Android users in August. Update, June 28, 2025: This story, originally published on June 27, has been updated with advice from Google on how to check and update your Android version in response to the news that Chrome will stop getting security updates in August for users of Android 8 and 9. If there is one thing you can guarantee in life, other than death and taxes, it's that Google will update the Chrome web browser with alarming frequency to fight off attacks using newly discovered security vulnerabilities. That guarantee will disappear for an estimated 300 million Android users starting August 5. Here's what you need to know. 300 Million Android Devices To Not Longer Get Chrome Security Updates According to the latest estimates, 4% of the Android user base of 3.3 billion still use Android 8 and another 5.8% use Android 9. While the percentages might seem insignificant in the overall scheme of things, that's a combined total of more than 300 million devices. It's also 300 million devices that will no longer benefit from security updates for the Google Chrome browser from August 5. Ellen T, a Chrome support manager at Google, has now officially confirmed in a Google Chrome community posting, that 'Chrome 138 is the last version of Chrome that will support Android 8.0 and Android 9.0.' With Chrome 139 being expected to arrive on August 5, and requiring devices to be running Android 10.0 or later, this means that you will 'need to ensure your device is running Android 10.0 or later to continue receiving future Chrome releases,' Ellen T said. How To Check And Update Your Version Of Android To Ensure Chrome Security Updates Continue Ellen T has stated that Google encourages all impacted users 'to move to a supported Android 10.0 version (or newer) to ensure you continue to receive the latest security updates and Chrome features.' Which is great, but how easy is that going to be in the real world? Google itself, of course, has a support page dedicated to just that question, explaining how to check for and update the version of Android for your device, be it a smartphone or tablet. 'You can find your device's Android version number, security update level, and Google Play system level in your Settings app,' Google said, adding that you will also get notifications when any operating system updates are available for your specific device. Here are the step-by-step instructions provided by Google: To check which Android version your device is running currently: To check for the latest Android operating system updates for your device: Doing Nothing Is Not An Option – Chrome Security Updates Are Critical It's important to note that older versions of the Google Chrome web browser app will continue to work just fine on older Android smartphones and tablets. Assuming that your definition of just fine includes being open to attack by anyone armed with an exploit for the latest security vulnerabilities. Indeed, as time passes, and those security vulnerabilities become common knowledge, with exploits exchanged in criminal forums online, the threat will only increase for any users who have not either updated to a more recent operating system or switched to a different browser app. You know what to do, and the correct answer is most certainly not nothing. You have been warned.
Android Authority
2 days ago
- Android Authority
Is Google readying a rival to iOS' Contact Poster? (APK teardown)
Apple TL;DR We've spotted clues that indicate Google is working on a 'calling card' feature for Android. The feature may allow for full-screen images and custom fonts for incoming calls. Speculatively, it could be similar to iOS' Contact Posters, enabling users to personalize their call display. Google and Apple frequently look at each other's operating systems for inspiration on what next to bring to their own. We've seen iOS copy features like widgets, free app icon placement on the home screen, and more from Android. On the other hand, we've spotted Google working on features like Handoff, which are a page out of Apple's book. We've now spotted clues for an in-development 'calling card' feature, which could potentially become Android's answer to iOS' Contact Posters. Authority Insights story on Android Authority. Discover You're reading anstory on Android Authority. Discover Authority Insights for more exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage you won't find anywhere else. An APK teardown helps predict features that may arrive on a service in the future based on work-in-progress code. However, it is possible that such predicted features may not make it to a public release. What we know about 'Calling Cards' The Google Contacts app has slowly built up code for a 'calling card' feature over the past few releases. For instance, v4.55 of the app adds the following strings: Code Copy Text Picture and calling card Set this image as both a contact picture and calling card This string alone doesn't give many clues about what is happening, other than letting us know that users will be set an image as a contact picture and a calling card. The string name suggests the image comes from the calling card itself, so you'd be setting the calling card as the contact picture. The real 'aha!' moment came from a new Calling Card activity, where we spotted 'CallingCardFontData' and 'CallingCardFullScreenImageData.' This is where things get exciting: custom fonts and full-screen images. Sound familiar? AssembleDebug / Android Authority We have to dig into Google Play Services for the next set of clues. We've seen code related to saving calling cards to the cloud and syncing them to the device: AssembleDebug / Android Authority These strings also do not tell us what a Calling Card is, but they tell us that calling cards can be created, deleted, updated, synced, and more. Unfortunately, we don't have a definitive answer on what the upcoming Calling Cards feature within Google Contacts could be, and what it could do. So, what exactly are these 'calling cards,' then? While Google's apps remain tight-lipped about their exact functionality, the clues point to them potentially being Android's answer to iOS 17's delightful Contact Posters. iOS 17's Contact Posters With iOS 17, Apple introduced a new feature called Contact Posters, which are full-screen photos that appear whenever you call a known contact. Users can set their photo, personalize it with filters, and set the font and font color for their name. The next time the user calls a known contact, the receiver will see the user's set Contact Poster. Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority The Contact Poster also works with the NameDrop feature, which allows users to quickly share their contact information through AirDrop by bringing their devices close together. Apple Overall, the Contact Poster feature changed the dynamic of setting contact photos, a task that most of us never really bother with. Instead of you setting contact photos for all the contacts on your phone, each person can set it for themselves as they see fit and share it with you. This way, you have updated photos for your iPhone-using contacts, and you can still set a custom profile photo for them if you want to. Could 'Calling cards' be Google's answer to iOS' Contact Poster? Contact Poster beats having boring and blank incoming call screens, adding to the experience of owning and using an iPhone. Speculatively, clues like font information and full-screen images for Google's Calling Cards feature add weight to the possibility that this is the experience Google could also be building for Android users. Most of us have already set a photo for our Google account, and syncing this information with our contacts would be an easy way to bring Contact Poster-like functionality to Android. It is worth reiterating that we still don't know what Google Contact's Calling Cards are. It is a fair possibility that they turn out to be something else entirely. Google has also not announced anything yet about them. We'll watch for more clues about the feature and update you when we learn more. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
South China Morning Post
2 days ago
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Trump Mobile drops ‘made in USA' smartphone claims from website
Trump Mobile, the new cellular service venture introduced by the Trump Organisation last week, has scrubbed online references that originally promised its first mobile handset, the T1 Phone, would be produced in the US. Advertisement The Trump Mobile website quietly removed language stating that the smartphone – due later this year – is 'made in the USA' , tech news outlet The Verge reported on Wednesday. Instead, the page now includes less specific wording that says the T1 Phone has been 'designed with American values in mind'. According to the description, the T1 Phone is 'brought to life right here in the USA' and 'with American hands behind every device'. But the website no longer asserts that it will be manufactured domestically. The device's hardware specifications have also changed. Originally, Trump Mobile advertised the T1 Phone as having a 6.78-inch screen, but that has now been adjusted to a slightly smaller 6.25 inches. The US$499 Trump Mobile T1 smartphone. Photo: Handout The website had promised 'a sleek, gold smartphone engineered for performance and proudly designed and built in the United States for customers who expect the best from their mobile carrier'.
Android Authority
3 days ago
- Android Authority
How Google's Find Hub could use Android 16's Secure Lock to protect your sensitive data
Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority TL;DR Android 16 introduces a 'Secure Lock' feature that enhances the security of remotely locking a lost device. Secure Lock restricts access to notifications, Quick Settings, widgets, and the digital assistant and requires both the screen lock credential and biometrics to unlock the phone. While not yet active, we expect this feature to be integrated into Find Hub, automatically boosting the protection of its 'secure device' option. If you lose your Android phone and are worried about leaking your sensitive data, you can use Google's Find Hub service to remotely lock it down or factory reset it. A factory reset is the most secure choice since it wipes all your data, but it comes with a major downside: you can no longer track the phone. Remotely locking it, on the other hand, allows you to keep tracking it but doesn't completely secure the device. That security gap may soon be a thing of the past, however, thanks to a new Secure Lock feature introduced in the latest Android 16 update. You're reading an Authority Insights story. Discover Authority Insights for more exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage you won't find anywhere else. When you mark your device as lost or use the 'secure device' option in Find Hub, the service locks it, requiring your PIN, pattern, or password to get in. It also signs you out of your Google Account, removes payment cards from Google Wallet, and can display a custom message on the lock screen. Locating a device on Google's Find Hub website Remotely securing a device via Google's Find Hub website However, this standard lock leaves several features accessible to anyone who picks up your phone. They can still pull down the Quick Settings panel, view lock screen widgets, access the digital assistant, and see the notification panel (though the notification content itself is hidden). While these don't expose your most sensitive data, they create potential security gaps that are better off sealed. That's what Android 16's new Secure Lock feature is designed to do. It not only restricts access to the aforementioned features but also enhances the lock screen by forcing multi-factor authentication for device entry. This means a thief would need to know your screen lock (your PIN, pattern, and password) and spoof your biometric data to gain access; one without the other won't be enough. This makes Secure Lock significantly more robust than Identity Check, an existing feature that requires only biometric authentication when your device is away from a trusted location. When I first revealed that Google was working on the Secure Lock feature earlier this year, I wasn't sure if the feature would actually launch in Android 16. With the release of Android 16's source code earlier this month, though, I can finally confirm the feature is part of the update and share more details about how it works. For starters, here's how Google describes Android 16's new Secure Lock feature: 'Secure Lock is a new feature that enables users to remotely lock down their mobile device via authorized clients into an enhanced security state, which restricts access to sensitive data (app notifications, widgets, quick settings, assistant, etc) and requires both credential and biometric authentication for device entry.' Secure Lock can be enabled by privileged system apps with the new MANAGE_SECURE_LOCK_DEVICE permission. These apps can then use the new AuthenticationPolicyManager API to activate the mode. Google describes this API as a 'centralized interface for managing authentication related policies on the device,' adding that it includes 'device locking capabilities' designed to protect Android users in ''at risk' environments.' When enabling or disabling Secure Lock on a device, a custom message can be shown on the lock screen. If no message is provided, the system will show a default message such as 'Device is securely locked remotely' if Secure Lock has been enabled or 'Secure lock mode has been disabled' if it's been disabled. Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority Google's Find Hub can display a custom message on top of the lock screen after remotely securing it. While it's not in use yet, we have some evidence suggesting that Google will soon implement this feature. Recent versions of the Google Play Services app already include the MANAGE_SECURE_LOCK_DEVICE permission. Since Google's Find Hub service is part of Play Services, it's the clear candidate to use Secure Lock, even if we don't know the exact custom message it will display on the lock screen. Google could also incorporate Secure Lock into Android's enterprise controls, though this is less likely. The AuthenticationPolicyManager API's description states it is 'not related to enterprise control surfaces and does not offer additional administrative controls,' suggesting it won't be a tool for securing lost corporate devices. That's why we think the Secure Lock feature will be used to silently boost the efficacy of Find Hub's 'secure device' button. We won't know for sure until Google actually deploys it, though. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
Apple TV Gets Better: tvOS 26 Beta 2 Hands-On
Apple has released tvOS 26 Beta 2, introducing a range of updates designed to refine the Apple TV experience. This latest beta focuses on enhancing the user interface, expanding Apple Music Sing capabilities, improving audio performance, and even hinting at potential new hardware. If you own an Apple TV, particularly the 4K second or third generation, these updates are tailored to elevate your entertainment experience, making it more immersive and user-friendly. The video below from HalfManHalfTech gives us more details on the tvOS 26 Beta 2. Watch this video on YouTube. Refined Interface: A Modern and Intuitive Design The tvOS 26 Beta 2 brings noticeable improvements to the interface, blending functionality with aesthetics to create a more seamless user experience. Key updates include: A redesigned update notification banner with improved proportions and detailed text, making sure you stay informed about system changes. An upgraded top shelf with a liquid glass effect, offering a sleek, semi-transparent design that enhances app previews. Refreshed visuals in the Apple TV app, including updated movie posters and streamlined category displays, making it easier to browse and discover content. These changes aim to simplify navigation while delivering a visually appealing experience, whether you're exploring new releases or managing your library. The modernized design reflects Apple's commitment to blending form and function. Apple Music Sing: A More Engaging Karaoke Experience Apple Music Sing receives significant upgrades in this beta, transforming it into a more interactive and versatile feature for music enthusiasts. Noteworthy enhancements include: A dedicated 'Sing' icon on the top shelf, integrating karaoke functionality directly into the Apple Music app for easier access. The ability to use your iPhone as a microphone, offering a personalized and dynamic singing experience. New controls such as reverb adjustments, song categorization, and mic muting options, providing greater flexibility during karaoke sessions. These updates cater to a wide range of users, from casual singers to dedicated music lovers, making Apple Music Sing a standout feature for social gatherings or solo performances. Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos 9.1.6 for Immersive Sound For users of the Apple TV 4K (2nd and 3rd generation), tvOS 26 Beta 2 introduces support for Dolby Atmos 9.1.6 audio. This advanced format delivers a richer and more immersive sound experience, particularly for home theater setups. Whether you're watching an action-packed movie or streaming your favorite music, the enhanced audio quality ensures a more engaging and cinematic experience. This update underscores Apple's focus on delivering premium sound performance for its users. Expanded Functionality: Updates to the iPhone Remote App The iPhone remote app has been updated to provide greater control over your Apple TV. One of the most notable changes is the ability to turn your Apple TV on and off directly from your phone. This small yet impactful feature simplifies device management, eliminating the need for a physical remote and making it easier to control your Apple TV from anywhere in your home. This update highlights Apple's commitment to convenience and user-friendly design. Library Enhancements: Improved Access to Your Content The library section of the Apple TV app has been updated to offer full visibility of all movie posters. This improvement ensures that your entire collection is easily accessible, allowing you to quickly find and revisit your favorite titles. The updated layout prioritizes clarity and ease of navigation, making it simpler to explore your library and discover hidden gems. This change is particularly beneficial for users with extensive collections. Potential Hardware Updates: Clues in the Code Hints of potential new Apple TV hardware have been discovered within the code of tvOS 26 Beta 2. While no official announcements have been made, these subtle indications suggest that Apple may be preparing to expand its product lineup. This aligns with the company's ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance its ecosystem. While details remain speculative, the possibility of new hardware adds an extra layer of excitement to this update. Additional Improvements: Accessibility and Stability tvOS 26 Beta 2 also includes several updates aimed at improving the overall user experience. These enhancements focus on accessibility, personalization, and system performance: Refined accessibility features to better support users with specific needs, making sure a more inclusive experience. Enhanced Apple Intelligence recommendations, offering more personalized content suggestions based on your viewing habits. Improved system stability, delivering smoother performance and reducing interruptions during use. These updates demonstrate Apple's dedication to creating a seamless and reliable platform for all users, regardless of their individual needs or preferences. A Comprehensive Update for Apple TV Users tvOS 26 Beta 2 introduces a variety of updates that enhance the Apple TV experience across multiple areas. From a more polished and intuitive interface to expanded Apple Music Sing features and advanced Dolby Atmos support, this beta caters to a diverse range of user needs. The addition of improved remote functionality and library enhancements further solidifies Apple TV's position as a leading entertainment platform. While the hints of new hardware remain speculative, the current updates provide plenty of reasons to explore this release. If you own a compatible device, these changes are worth exploring to elevate your viewing and listening experience. Stay informed about the latest in Apple tvOS 26 Beta 2 by exploring our other resources and articles. Source & Image Credit: HalfManHalfTech Filed Under: Apple, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
