Android
Your Android phone will get faster AV1 video codec

Google is working to deliver the AV1 video codec to Android smartphones. Qualcomm and Apple are shipping their latest SoCs with a hardware-accelerated AV1 decoder. However, older phones are getting prepared to process AV1 content on the CPU using a software-accelerated decoder.
Sources of AndroidAuthority revealed that Google informed its partners a couple of months back that the company has plans to replace libgav1 with libdav1d on existing devices by March 2024 through an upcoming Google Play System Update.
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It’s worth noting that the Android maker is still testing the video codec support on the operating system. As this change may impact battery life and performance on some models, proper testing and validation is a must of the developers.
With the release of Android 14, Google mandated AV1 video codec adoption for vendors. Therefore, the AV1 codec update might be rolled out to devices only running the Android 14 operating system. March 2024 Play System update is expected to be published soon, let’s see what it packs.
Android
Android 16 may let you see notifications and settings side by side

A new leak shows that the next big update to Android, called Android 16, might change how you look at your phone’s alerts and controls. Right now, when you pull down the top of your screen, you see either your notifications or the quick settings panel, but not both at the same time. The leak suggests Android 16 could let you see both together, side by side, when you swipe down from the top.
This new look would be helpful for people who want to check their messages and change settings quickly. It would mean less swiping and more info at a glance. The leak comes from someone who looks at Android’s code and shares new features before they are officially announced. The images in the leak show a split view, with notifications on one side and quick settings on the other.
This idea is still in testing, so it might not make it to the final version of Android 16. But if it does, it could make using your phone a bit easier and faster. The update is expected to come out later this year, and more details will be shared as we get closer to the launch. For now, this leak gives us a peek at what might be coming next for Android phones.
Android
Android Automotive now lets you use video and audio apps more easily

Google has made it easier for people to use video and audio apps in cars that run Android Automotive. Now, car makers can let drivers and passengers use more types of media apps, making car rides more fun and useful.
Before, Android Automotive only allowed certain apps for music, podcasts, and radio. With the new updates, car makers can now add video apps like YouTube and other streaming services. This means you can watch videos when the car is parked, such as while charging an electric vehicle or waiting for someone. Google is also letting more audio apps work in cars, so you can listen to audiobooks, news, and other audio content.
To keep everyone safe, video apps will only work when the car is not moving. Audio apps, on the other hand, can be used while driving, as long as they don’t distract the driver. Google is working closely with car companies to make sure these apps run smoothly and safely.
These changes are part of Google’s plan to make Android Automotive a better system for both drivers and passengers. By adding more ways to enjoy music, videos, and other content, car rides can be more entertaining and comfortable for everyone.
Android
Android Auto gets better music and podcast apps after Google IO 2025

Google recently announced some big improvements to Android Auto at Google I/O 2025, especially for people who use music and podcast apps in their cars. These changes are meant to make it easier and safer to listen to your favorite songs and shows while driving.
Now, media apps on Android Auto will look and work more like the apps on your phone. For example, you’ll see bigger album covers, better controls, and more helpful information on the screen. If you use apps like Spotify, YouTube Music, or Audible, you’ll notice that it’s simpler to find and play what you want.
Another cool update is that Android Auto will now show suggestions for things you might want to listen to next, based on your habits. This means you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying your drive.
Google also made it easier for app developers to update their apps for Android Auto. This should mean more apps get these new features soon.
Overall, these updates are designed to make listening to music and podcasts in your car smoother and more enjoyable, so you can focus on the road and have a better driving experience.
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