Latest news with #GooglePlayStore
Geeky Gadgets
2 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
From Google Accounts to Third-Party Apps: How Android Users Can Remove Sensitive Info Online
As of 2025, Android has 3.3 billion users worldwide and holds a 71% global market share ( A large chunk of their users are in the US, with 133.4 million people owning an Android smartphone ( And while the core operating system powering Android is open source, Google develops and maintains a proprietary version of Android, including Google Mobile Services (GMS). More importantly, most Android devices come with the Google Play Store pre-installed. The fact that they're so closely linked means Google, from Google Accounts to third-party apps, always has a watchful eye on Android users. Downloads, Google searches, Google Play Store searches, and all personal information input are recorded and stored. Follow our guide below to learn how Android users can remove sensitive information online. How Google Collects Data from Android Users Google has carefully designed multiple methods of data collection from Android users for different and specific reasons. This table outlines the data type, method of collection, and reason for collection: Data type Source / Mechanism Purpose Unique device identifiers (Android ID, IMEI, MAC, Advertising ID) Collected via Google Play Services, Google Mobile Ads SDK Device recognition, analytics, ad targeting IP address Automatically captured by Google Mobile Ads SDK Location estimation, analytics, fraud prevention App usage & interaction data (app launches, taps, session durations) Google Play Services SDKs, Mobile Ads SDK App performance tracking, feature usage insights, analytics Diagnostics & crash reports Google Play Services, Crashlytics, Ads SDK App stability, debugging, quality improvement Device info (model, OS version, network carrier, browser type) Google servers receive this during updates/accesses Feature compatibility, device-specific feature delivery Location data (precise or approximate) GPS, Wi‑Fi & cell‑tower scans, IP lookup, Wi‑Fi access‑point mapping Location features, ads targeting, maps, services Cookies & advertising identifiers Via Play Store and Play Services at boot time (per Trinity study) Persistent ad tracking, cross-service profiling Android Fit / sensor data (steps, health metrics) Google Fit APIs Health tracking, fitness services Saved game data, achievements, social graph Play Games Services SDK Game progression, social features How Android Users Can Remove Sensitive Information Online If you see that table as eye-opening, and you want to submit a request to remove personal information from Google, it's a sort of easy but long-winded and ongoing process. Google doesn't actually store any content, so if you search for your personal information online and find it, it means the information must be published on a source site. The websites most likely to publish your data include Data Brokers Social Media Online Accounts Any Other Website There are different methods for data removal depending on the source. For data brokers, you can request to opt out and have your data removed. Legally, they can add it again after 90 days, so it's an ongoing request. For Google, they have Google's removal tool. They'll review your request and should remove your data shortly after. Still, even once they remove it, it won't be long until something reappears again. Anything you do to remove your personal data from the internet is a process you must repeat regularly. The Risks of Not Removing Your Personal Information The risks of not removing your personal information from the internet are high. Identity theft fraud, for example, caused $12.7 billion in financial losses in 2024, according to Experian. And, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), they received over 1.1 million complaints of identity theft and roughly 2.6 million complaints of related fraud. Other risks include: Harassment Data breaches Stalking In our opinion, it's essential to regularly remove your data from the internet in 2025. Android users are constantly sharing their personal information without even realizing it. And whilst Google doesn't share your personal information without your consent, third parties might sell it to data brokers. Image Credit: Filed Under: Android News, Guides 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.
India Today
a day ago
- India Today
Google Pixel 10 series full specs, design leak leaves little to imagination ahead of August 20 launch
Google's Pixel 10 series is set to launch on August 20, but most of the key details are already out. From design to specifications, everything about the upcoming phones has been leaked — some by tipsters and some even through Google's own promotional material. Keep reading to know more about the Pixel 10 year, Google is likely to introduce four models: the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. While leaks had already shown early renders, Google recently confirmed the design of the Pixel 10 Pro through a short teaser on its official website. The video gives a clear look at the phone's curved edges and the familiar horizontal camera layout on the with the teaser, Google also shared that users who sign up for marketing emails by August 19 will get a 'special offer.' It's not yet known what exactly the offer includes, but it's expected to be linked to the Pixel 10 phones. Meanwhile, promotional banners spotted inside the Google Play Store by Android Authority have revealed the look of the Pixel 10 series. The regular Pixel 10 appears in a new Indigo colour, while the Pro, Pro XL, and Fold models can be seen in 10 series specificationsAccording to leaks, the Pixel 10 will feature a 6.3-inch full-HD+ display with a peak brightness of 2,000nits and protection from Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The phone will likely run on Google's new Tensor G5 chip, paired with 12GB RAM and up to 256GB storage. It may have a 4,970mAh battery with 29W wired and 15W wireless Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL are expected to come with 120Hz LTPO OLED displays, measuring 6.3 and 6.8 inches, and brightness levels reaching 2,250nits. Both phones will be powered by the same Tensor G5 chip, with up to 1TB of storage. The Pro XL will have a larger 5,200mAh battery and faster 39W charging, compared to 4,870mAh on the foldable fans, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold could offer a 6.4-inch outer screen, and a similar main display size as the Pixel Fold. This model is also expected to bring IP68 water and dust resistance, along with a 5,015mAh battery and the same Tensor G5 the first time, the regular Pixel 10 may get a triple rear camera setup, a feature usually limited to Pro models. Leaks suggest it will include a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 13-megapixel ultrawide, and an 11-megapixel telephoto camera. The selfie camera is said to be Pro and Pro XL models will continue with last year's setup, a 50-megapixel main, 48-megapixel ultrawide, and 48-megapixel telephoto. The Fold will switch from a 64-megapixel sensor to a 50-megapixel Samsung GN8 sensor, but most of the other camera specs may remain rumours indicated Google might go with a MediaTek modem, but recent reports confirm that the phones will use Samsung's Exynos 5400 modem. This was recently spotted in FCC filings and prototype device testing.- Ends
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Free Fire OB50 update goes live: New features, download guide, and more
Free Fire OB50 update Garena's popular battle royale game — Free Fire has rolled out its much-awaited OB50 update. The latest update brings multiple new features, optimisations and content for the loyal player of the game. The update is available for both Android and iOS users for download. The OB50 update brings significant changes aimed at refreshing gameplay and improving user engagement. Apart from Apple App Store and Google Play Store the Android users can also use the APK version to manually install the game on their device. Free Fire OB50 update: What's new While specific patch notes detail all changes, the OB50 update generally focuses on: New characters: One of the standout additions in OB50 is the 'Epic Ninja Trials' event, offering players a chance to earn exclusive in-game rewards. The update also introduces Rin Yagami, a playable character armed with three kunai—deadly throwing knives that can inflict damage during combat. Weapon Adjustments: Expect tweaks to weapon statistics, including damage, recoil, and fire rate, to maintain competitive balance. Map Enhancements: Updates frequently bring visual overhauls, new areas, or strategic modifications to existing maps. Gameplay Optimizations: Improvements to game performance, bug fixes, and network stability are standard in such updates, aiming for smoother gameplay. New Events and Rewards: Players can anticipate new in-game events, challenges, and exclusive rewards to celebrate the update's launch. How to download and install the OB50 update For Android Users: Open the Google Play Store Search for 'Free Fire' Tap 'Update' and wait for installation Launch the game to access new content For iOS Users: Open the App Store Search for 'Free Fire' Tap 'Update' and wait for installation Launch the game to dive into OB50 features Manual APK Installation: Visit a trusted site like APKPure Download the Free Fire APK Enable 'Unknown Sources' in device settings Install the APK and move the OBB file to the correct folder Open the game and start playing AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Hans India
a day ago
- Hans India
X Rolls Out WhatsApp-Inspired Features to Enhance DM Experience
X, previously known as Twitter, is stepping up its direct messaging (DM) game by introducing a set of new features that closely mirror those found on WhatsApp. The platform's latest update is clearly aimed at making DMs more interactive, personal, and engaging—transforming the once-simple inbox into a richer communication space. Among the most talked-about additions is the typing indicator. Much like WhatsApp, X now shows users when the other person is actively typing a message. This subtle but powerful feature brings a sense of immediacy and real-time flow to conversations. As the platform increasingly serves as a multi-purpose social app, this indicator helps bridge the delay gap and offers better context during chats. "You know when to expect a reply instead of wondering if someone is still around," the update explains. It's a feature many felt was overdue, and its arrival is widely welcomed. Another new feature is emoji reactions, which lets users quickly respond to messages using a single emoji—be it a thumbs up, heart, or laugh. Similar to features on WhatsApp, Instagram, and iMessage, this tool makes conversations more expressive and time-efficient. It's perfect for moments where a full reply isn't necessary but you still want to engage. "It saves time and makes replies feel more casual and expressive," the company notes. Mentions have also been added, enabling users to tag others in a conversation using the '@' symbol. This is especially useful in group chats, where messages can easily get buried. The mention feature ensures that the tagged person receives a notification, helping to maintain the flow and focus of discussions without cluttering the chat with multiple follow-up messages. In addition to these core features, X has introduced a handful of quality-of-life improvements. A new message divider makes conversations more organized and visually appealing. The chat search function is another welcome tool, allowing users to find specific messages or threads with ease—a key utility that puts the platform more in line with other mature messaging apps. Moreover, the app now offers enhanced control over message privacy. Users can fine-tune who's allowed to send them DMs, and unlike before, they can block messages from a user without fully blocking them on the platform. This gives users more flexibility in managing their interactions without completely cutting someone off. While X has historically been recognized for its microblogging and public conversation features, these updates signal a clear intent to compete more directly in the private messaging space. By adopting familiar tools that users already love on WhatsApp and similar apps, X is positioning itself as a more versatile communication hub. All these new features are live and can be accessed by updating the app via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Whether you're a casual user or an active group chat participant, these changes are designed to make your conversations on X smoother, faster, and more intuitive.
Economic Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
Free Fire OB50 update is now live: Here's how to download the APK, install it on Android and iOS, and what's new
Free Fire OB50 update is here. It is available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Players can get it via APK too. The update brings new gameplay. Rin Yagami, a new character, joins the game. The 'Epic Ninja Trials' event offers rewards. Update now through official sources. Enjoy the enhanced gaming experience with Free Fire OB50. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads What's new in Free Fire OB50 update Free Fire OB50 update: How to download for Android users Open the Google Play Store Search for 'PUBG Mobile' Tap on the 'Update' button Wait for the download to complete Launch the game after the update is installed Free Fire OB50 update guide for iOS users Free Fire OB50 update: For iOS users Open the App Store Search for 'PUBG Mobile' Tap on the 'Update' button Wait for the download to complete Launch the game to access the new content How to download Free Fire OB50 APK manually Players who prefer downloading the APK file directly can use the following method: Open a web browser and visit the 'APKPure' website Click on the first link that appears Go to device Settings > Security and enable 'Unknown Sources' Install the APK file and move the OBB file to the Android > OBB > Free Fire folder Open the game to start playing The Free Fire OB50 update is now available for download on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Gamers can also install the APK version directly through a third-party source. The update brings new gameplay features, characters, events, and in-game OB50 version introduces a range of new content. One of the key highlights is the "Epic Ninja Trials" event, which gives players a chance to win various in-game rewards. A new playable character, Rin Yagami, has been added. This character comes equipped with three kunai, which can be used to damage opponents during update Free Fire through the Play Store, users should follow these steps:On the homepage, search for Free Fire APK and click the download buttonThe update aims to enhance the player experience with new features and challenges. Players are advised to install the update through official or verified sources to avoid security risks.
