News
Weekly Headlines: Google beats Samsung, March 2024 Update, Circle to Search, Pixel Watch 3 UWB and more

Welcome to Weekly Headlines at I M Judge!
I guess, you may have installed the latest Feature Drop on your Pixel. So it’s the third week of our Weekly Headlines streak that takes you to all the latest and breaking insights about Google and Android. I will try to put useful and interesting topics as much as possible.
1️⃣ Pixel March 2024 Feature Drop
As expected, Google rolled out the March 2024 Feature Drop for Pixel phones on the first Monday of the month. The update is available for Pixel 5a 5G and all other Tensor-powered Pixel devices and brings features namely:
- Improved Call Screen
- HDR: Pixel Camera x Instagram
- Circle to Search
2️⃣ Circle to Search for Pixel 7 & 7 Pro
Google announced the expansion of Circle to Search feature to 2022’s flagship phones – Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. Read more here:
3️⃣ March 2024 Android Fixes
Earlier this month, Google started rolling out the March 2024 update to Pixel devices, bringing the latest security fixes, enhancements. The software improves Bluetooth and WiFi, Camera, Display and Graphics, UI and more:
Google Pixel March 2024 update improves Camera, Display, UI and more
4️⃣ Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2
Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2, bringing fixes for 8 major issues, rolled out to Google Pixel 5a, Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 resolves 8 major issues:
5️⃣ Pixel Watch 3 UWB
Google is reportedly working to fuel ultra-wideband (UWB) technology in the Pixel Watch 3. It might supercharge the Watch Unlock feature with the inclusion of ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity.
6️⃣ Threads x Pixel: Ultra HDR/10-bit HDR
Threads quietly added support for Ultra HDR images and 10-bit HDR videos on Google Pixel devices. With the March Feature Drop, Google announced an HDR upgrade for Instagram, which also applied to Threads.
7️⃣ Google outshines Samsung in Japan
IDC reported that the Japanese smartphone market’s growth declined by 11% year on year. Google Pixel scored an outstanding growth of 527% in Japan in 2023. Google with a 10.7% share outshined Samsung (6.3%).
The next Weekly Headlines will be more thrilling. Help me make it more user-centric and useful by giving feedback and taking a bit of your precious time through comments.
Stay up-to-date on Google Pixel, Android & Tech Stuffs by following I M Judge on X/Twitter where you can also discover the latest news, polls, reviews, and new features for Google Apps, Pixel Phones, and the Android operating system.
Do you like this post? Kindly, let us know on X/Twitter: we love hearing your feedback! If you prefer using other social platforms besides X, do follow/join us on Facebook and Telegram.
Google Meet gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android
Easy ways to change Android Auto’s look with light and dark themes

Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google Drive and Files by Google get fresh updates for easier use

Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
-
Apps1 year ago
Gboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
News1 year ago
Samsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
Apps12 months ago
Google Contacts app testing new Besties Widget
-
AI12 months ago
Google Pixel 9 Pro may come with a complimentary one-year Gemini Advanced subscription
-
News1 year ago
Breaking: Samsung Galaxy S22 may get Galaxy AI features
-
Apps12 months ago
Google working on a new video editing feature for its Photo app
-
Apps12 months ago
Google Maps lets you report traffic jams and accidents on Apple CarPlay, but not on Android Auto
-
Apps12 months ago
Google Messages app will transform MMS chats into RCS