Latest news with #Material3
Phone Arena
2 days ago
- Phone Arena
It's about time! Google Clock's latest version rolls out along with Pixel Weather changes
One of the most used native apps on Android just might be the Clock app. Every Android phone has the app and it is often used to set timers and alarms. While it isn't used for long sessions, it is accessed several times a day. Google is in the process of rolling out Google Clock version 7.14. The update continues to make the Timer Starter widget exclusive to Pixel devices (it debuted on the Pixel Tablet before getting added to Pixel phones). The widget is preset with the last three timers you set for your alarm and a "+" button to create a new timer. To place the widget on your Pixel phone long-press on an empty area of screen real estate and on the pop-up that appears, tap on Widgets. Scroll down to Clock and tap on it. Scroll down to Timer Starter. Press on it and a "+Add" button will appear. Tap on the button and the widget will be placed on your Pixel's home screen. You can now start a timer faster with the widget than by using your voice to set one. The Timer Starter widget is available on Pixels only, and the weather condition icons lose color on the Clock app. | Image credit-PhoneArena The Google Clock 7.14 app also uses Material 3 switches in the Alarm tab and the Settings menu list. There is also a minor but noticeable change in the Clock tab. Whether it's your home time zone at the top of the screen or the individual countries you are following, there is a change to the icons showing the current weather conditions. Previously, the weather condition icons were shown in color (for example, the sun would be yellow). Now, all of the current weather condition icons are in gray. They might not stand out as they previously did but on the other hand, they are not as distracting. The Settings menu uses Material 3 in the toggle switches. | Image credit-PhoneArena While the update is rolling out now to those running version 7.14 of the Google Clock app, you can see where you stand by going to Settings > Apps > See all xxx apps > Clock . Scroll down to the very bottom of the page and check the version of the app listed. To reiterate, you want it to be over 7.14. If it is under version 7.14, you can delete the app from your phone and reinstall it from the Play Store with the latest version number by tapping on this link. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase Check Out The Offer
CNET
2 days ago
- CNET
The Latest Android 16 QPR1 Beta is Out Now. Here's How To Get It on Your Pixel
The latest Android 16 QPR1 Beta is available for Pixel owners who've signed up to receive the latest releases from Google. Since it's just a .1 update, it doesn't bring any new phone features to the table, but a handful of bug fixes, as well as the June Security patch -- something the QPR1 2.0 update from earlier this month was missing. Although Android 16 is now officially available, it lacks the visual overhaul, Material 3 Expressive, that Google showed off during the Android Show this past May. Luckily, Google transitioned its Android Beta Program to Quarterly Platform Releases, and a large chunk of Material 3 Expressive found its way to Pixel devices that installed the first QPR1 update. Below, we'll show you what's new in the latest QPR1 release and how to enroll your supported Pixel device in the Beta program to get these updates moving forward. For more, don't miss when we expect the Pixel 10 to launch. What's new in the latest QPR1 Beta? The sparse release notes for QPR 2.1 reiterate that there isn't much to gawk at in this release. The QPR 2 beta added in support for enhanced windowing on connected devices, bringing a desktop-like experience. It's nowhere near as slick as what Apple is doing on the iPad with iPadOS 26, but it is nonetheless a welcomed addition when you need more space to work with and have a display you can connect your phone to. Here's what's new in the Android 16 QPR1 2.1: Fix for the "Approve" button in the Device Admin settings being transparent and invisible. Fix for the lockscreen sound toggle showing as off, but sounds still playing. Fix for the Android back button intermittently failing to function. Fix for a launcher crash when swiping up from the bottom. In addition, and as mentioned before, this release also comes with the latest June security patch. Android 16 QPR1 has some Material 3 Expressive baked in Here's a look at the overhauled Settings menu, quick settings menu and multitasking menu tweaks. Blake Stimac/CNET The latest QPR1 builds include several pieces of the Material 3 Expressive design overhaul. It's a fresh take on the OS while still looking like a natural progression of what was there before. It's easier to find important actions within the OS, and the new design will eventually make its way to apps when developers adopt the new design language. Google has already shown off a few of the apps it plans to update with Material 3 Expressive, including Gmail, Fitbit and Google Photos. While the public release will include more of Material 3 Expressive, the biggest visual changes are present here. The launcher, notifications, quick settings and lock screen all "pop" like never before. What Pixel devices can install the Android 16 QPR1 2.1? In order to install the Android 16 QPR1, you'll need a compatible Pixel. Here's the full list of supported devices. Pixel 6, 6a, and 6 Pro Pixel 7, 7a, and 7 Pro Pixel Fold Pixel Tablet Pixel 8, 8a, and 8 Pro Pixel 9, 9a, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold How to install the Android 16 QPR1 2.1 You can enroll any of your compatible Pixel devices to receive beta updates with a few clicks. Google/CNET Installing the Android 16 QPR1 2.1 build is easy. If you're running the last Android 16 QPR1 release, you don't need to do anything. You should be able to check for a system update and the QPR1 2.1 beta should begin to download. If you're new to installing Android 16 on your device, here's how to get things moving: Go to the Android Beta site and log in to your Google account. Click or tap on "View your eligible devices" or just scroll down to the section. You should see the devices associated with the Google account you've logged in with. Under the device on which you'd like to install the Android 16 update, click or tap the "+ Opt in" button. Agree to the terms of the beta program and click or tap "Confirm and enroll." Once your device is enrolled, you can check to see if the update is waiting for you. It typically doesn't take long. On your Pixel, go to your Settings menu. Tap System. Tap Software updates. Tap System update. From there, the Android 16 QPR1 2.1 build should start downloading to your device. If it continues to say "Your Pixel is up to date," give it a few more minutes or try restarting your phone, then try again. Alternatively, you can flash the update to your Pixel. Want more on Pixel? Don't miss what we know about Google's new AI Assistant, Pixel Sense.
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Android 16: Performance Issues You Need to Know
Android 16, with its Material 3 redesign, set out to redefine the user experience with a modern and expressive interface. However, as you explore its features, several shortcomings become apparent. These range from limited customization options to inconsistent design elements, raising questions about its readiness for a polished, stable release. In the video below from Sam Beckman delves into the key areas where Android 16 struggles and why addressing these issues is critical for its success.= Watch this video on YouTube. Lock Screen: A Missed Opportunity for Personalization The lock screen in Android 16 fails to meet the growing demand for personalization. While many users expect a dynamic and customizable lock screen, Android 16 offers only basic options, leaving much to be desired. Key issues include: A lack of a robust lock screen editor , preventing users from tailoring layouts to their preferences. , preventing users from tailoring layouts to their preferences. Limited clock styles with no depth effects or resizing options, resulting in static and outdated designs. No support for always-visible widgets or the ability to remove the clock entirely, frustrating users who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. These limitations make the lock screen feel rigid and uninspired, falling short of the customization standards set by competing platforms. Fingerprint Unlock Animation: Lacking Visual Appeal The fingerprint unlock animation in Android 16 is another area where the system feels underwhelming. Competing Android skins provide dynamic and visually engaging animations that enhance the unlocking experience. In contrast, Android 16's animation feels basic and outdated, failing to contribute to the overall polish and user satisfaction of the operating system. Navigation Bar: A Visual Inconsistency The navigation bar design in Android 16 introduces persistent issues that disrupt the interface's visual harmony. Key problems include: An intrusive presence that detracts from the overall flow of the interface. that detracts from the overall flow of the interface. Inconsistent background elements across apps, creating a disjointed and unpolished experience. These inconsistencies undermine the cohesive aesthetic that users expect from a modern operating system, making the navigation bar feel like an afterthought rather than an integral part of the design. Home Screen Customization: Falling Short of Expectations Android 16's home screen customization options are surprisingly restrictive, limiting your ability to create a personalized and engaging experience. Key shortcomings include: No ability to remove default widgets like 'At a Glance' or the search bar, which restricts layout flexibility. Lack of support for third-party icon packs and limited grid size options, reducing the scope for visual customization. No features like double-tap to lock or the ability to disable app labels, which are common in other Android skins. <liFlat and uninspired animations that lack the fluidity and responsiveness seen in competing systems. These limitations hinder the ability to craft a home screen that reflects individual preferences, leaving users with a less engaging experience. Third-Party Launcher Compatibility: A Step Backward For users who prefer third-party launchers, Android 16 presents significant challenges. Gestural navigation animations are tied exclusively to the stock launcher, leading to janky transitions and a less seamless experience when using alternatives. This restriction undermines Android's reputation for flexibility and customization, alienating a segment of users who rely on third-party launchers for their preferred interface. Quick Settings Panel: Design and Functionality Issues The Quick Settings panel in Android 16 struggles with both design and usability, making it feel clunky and outdated. Key concerns include: A poorly designed brightness slider and an unintuitive toggle editing interface that complicate basic adjustments. Inconsistent toggle shapes and limited functionality, such as the absence of flashlight intensity adjustment . . Cartoonish font styles and outdated Wi-Fi and data icons that detract from the panel's aesthetic appeal. These issues make the Quick Settings panel less intuitive and less visually appealing than those found in competing systems. Volume Panel: Overdesigned and Inefficient The volume panel in Android 16 is overly large and cluttered with unnecessary design elements. This overdesign makes volume adjustments less efficient, particularly for users who value simplicity and ease of use. A more compact and intuitive design would greatly improve the usability of this feature. Haptics and Refresh Rate: Missing Fine-Tuning Android 16 falls short in providing granular control over haptics and refresh rate settings, which are essential for a refined user experience. Notable issues include: No options to adjust keyboard vibration intensity or fine-tune haptic feedback settings, limiting user control. or fine-tune haptic feedback settings, limiting user control. Some devices default to a 60 Hz refresh rate without offering the option to choose during setup, reducing the smoothness and responsiveness associated with higher refresh rates. These oversights diminish the tactile and visual experience that users expect from a modern operating system, leaving room for improvement. Camera App: Performance Problems Persist The camera app in Android 16 continues to struggle with performance issues that impact photo and video quality. Key problems include: Persistent shutter lag and jittery video recording, which undermine the quality of captured moments. and jittery video recording, which undermine the quality of captured moments. Clunky lens switching during video capture and subpar portrait mode performance, with harsh cutouts and slow processing. An outdated cinematic blur feature that remains limited to 1080p resolution. Poor third-party app camera quality, particularly in apps like Instagram and TikTok, where image processing falls short. These shortcomings make the camera experience feel inconsistent and underwhelming, especially when compared to the competition. Refining Android 16 for a Better Future While Android 16's Material 3 redesign introduces a modern aesthetic, its potential is overshadowed by numerous usability and functionality issues. From limited customization options to inconsistent design elements and underperforming features, these shortcomings highlight the need for significant improvements. Addressing these concerns is essential for Google to deliver a competitive and satisfying user experience with Android 16. By refining these aspects, Android 16 could truly live up to its promise of a fresh and expressive operating system. Uncover more insights about Android 16 Material 3 Redesign in previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: Sam Beckman Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone 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.
GSM Arena
3 days ago
- GSM Arena
Google's default Phone app gets a redesign overhaul with Android 16
With Android 16, Google is preparing a major design overhaul in line with the Material 3 Expressive design language. But instead of introducing the new look to all of its apps, Google is redesigning its core apps gradually. The most recent changes in the default Phone app have generated a lot of buzz lately. In a short blog post, Google shows the new Phone app and explains why it's making these changes. The first thing to notice is that the new Phone app is much simpler and more streamlined. The overcrowded bottom bar is now showing just the "Home", "Keypad" and "Voicemail". The filters like missed calls, contacts and spam have been moved to the Home tab. Speaking of, the Home tab shares space with the Favorite contacts and shows the recent call logs. Additionally, calls from the same contact are now shown separately. The "Contacts" tab is gone altogether, and the "Keypad" tab takes the middle and replaces the floating action button. The dialer no longer follows you around when switching between tabs in the Phone app. Last but not least, Google is experimenting with a new swipe gesture for answering and rejecting calls in order to reduce accidental answers or declines when pulling the phone out of your pocket. However, Google is taking users' suggestions, so the swipe gestures may change. The app is only available to beta testers for now, but it's possible that Google may release the new version before Android 16 launches. Source
Android Authority
4 days ago
- Android Authority
Google Password Manager is getting a Material 3 Expressive glow up (APK teardown)
Robert Triggs / Android Authority TL;DR Google Password Manager on Android is getting a Material 3 Expressive makeover. Passwords and passkeys can now be filtered. This change is not exclusive to Android 16. Material 3 Expressive was officially introduced during Google I/O last month. Since then, we've seen Android's new design language gradually trickle down to various apps like Drive and Google Phone. Now the makeover is making its way to Password Manager on Android. 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. On Android, the current version of Password Manager doesn't follow the dynamic colors of the system. Instead, it uses a blue accent, as you can see in the screenshots below. Not only will this change with the rollout of Material 3 Expressive, but also a new filter will be introduced. While combing through Google Play Services (version 25.25.31 beta), we were able to activate the Material 3 Expressive redesign for Password Manager. Unlike the current version, the expressive redesign allows Password Manager to match the dynamic colors of the system. You may also notice that the header text has disappeared. This text has been replaced by a key logo and a search bar. We also noticed that other areas of Password Manager, like the editing and adding a new password screens, remain unchanged. Although these screens are unchanged, they will still follow the system's dynamic colors like the rest of the pages. Something else that's new is the filter that sits below the search field and above your passwords. You'll be able to use this filter to separate your passwords from your passkeys. When this update rolls out, it won't be exclusive to Android 16. Which means those with older versions of Android should receive this change as well. 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.
