Pixel
Google’s March 2024 Feature Drop expanding to Pixel phones in the US
Google is expanding the March 2024 Pixel Feature Drop to more users in the US. The company initiated the update rollout last Monday, with US deployment scheduled to begin on March 11.
Last Monday, some Google Pixel users have received the Stable Android 14 QPR2 update. The firmware came with the same build number that the company mentioned as Global.
Pixel’s latest update is expanding to some AT&T, T-Mobile, and Google Fi customers in the US. Notably, the build version is the same AP1A.240305.019.A1 build that Google identified as the “global” software version.
Meanwhile, Verizon consumers are yet to begin receiving this month’s software on their Pixel phones. Also, the carrier has not yet refreshed its software support page, which brings many helpful insights.
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Pixel Watch November 2024 update and Wear OS 5 rollout details
Google Resumes Wear OS 5 Updates for Pixel Watches
After pausing the Wear OS 5 rollout in September due to issues, Google is now releasing the latest update for Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Watch 3 as part of the November 2024 security patch. This update brings much-needed stability improvements and bug fixes across all three models.
Update Details and Rollout
The new update is based on Wear OS 5 and has the build number AW2A.241105.012 for all six global models. However, there are some differences for users in France:
- For Orange LTE models in France: The build number is AW2A.241105.013.
- For all other models in France: The build number remains AW2A.241105.012.
The Pixel Watch series is expected to show the “November 5, 2024” security patch level after the update.
Rollout Plan
Starting today, the rollout will be done in phases, depending on the carrier and device. Users of the original Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 will start receiving the Wear OS 5 upgrade, which was halted earlier. Google plans to gradually extend the update to all devices over the next week.
What’s New in the November 2024 Update?
The update focuses on enhancing device security, fixing known bugs, and improving overall performance. Here is a detailed changelog for each device:
Pixel Watch 3:
- Security Updates: Includes the latest Android security patches for better protection.
- Bug Fixes: Addresses several stability issues, including:
- Resolving the rare occurrence of a white splash screen when navigating to the watch face by pressing the Crown.
- Fixing Bluetooth connection issues that led to connection drops.
- Correcting the display of old, completed calls, which were still showing as active.
Pixel Watch 1 & Pixel Watch 2:
- Wear OS 5 Upgrade: The software update includes an upgrade to the new Wear OS 5, bringing:
- Improved performance and stability.
- Enhanced camera controls via the Play Store update.
- Upgraded Pixel Recorder for better voice recording and playback features.
- Bug Fixes:
- Fixed an issue where the watch face wouldn’t load upon reboot.
- Addressed the problem where a white splash screen would appear when pressing the Crown.
How to Install the Update
To check for the update manually, go to Settings > System > System updates on your Pixel Watch. If it shows “Your watch is up to date,” tap that message multiple times to trigger the update download. You can also speed up the process by going to Connectivity preferences and temporarily disabling Bluetooth, forcing the watch to use Wi-Fi for faster download.
For users who prefer manual updates, Over-The-Air (OTA) images are available for download on Google’s official Pixel Watch support page.
Wear OS 5 Rollout Resumes
The Wear OS 5 update was initially pulled back in September due to reported issues, including a “soft brick” problem. However, Google has now resumed the updates with stability enhancements and fixes for all three Pixel Watch models. This November update marks the resumption of Wear OS 5 upgrades, providing users with new features and improvements.
Verizon’s Changelog Details
Verizon has also shared specific details about the November 2024 update for Pixel Watch models, highlighting the following improvements:
- Security Enhancements: Latest Android security patches have been applied.
- Performance Improvements: General stability and performance have been enhanced across all models.
- Bug Fixes:
- Resolved a rare issue where a white splash screen would appear when pressing the Crown.
- Fixed Bluetooth connectivity problems where the connection would drop unexpectedly.
- Addressed an issue where completed calls were still displayed as active.
No October Update Due to Previous Issues
There was no update released in October 2024 because of a reported “soft brick” issue with Wear OS 5 on Pixel Watch devices. This problem caused the watches to become unresponsive, prompting Google to pause the update rollout. With this latest November patch, Google seems to have resolved the major issues and resumed the updates.
How to Access the Update
To ensure a smooth update experience, users are advised to:
- Check for updates manually via Settings > System > System updates.
- If the update is not available immediately, try forcing the update by tapping the “Your watch is up to date” message multiple times.
- Disable Bluetooth and switch to Wi-Fi for a faster download process.
With the new features and improvements brought by Wear OS 5, the November 2024 update is expected to enhance the user experience across all Pixel Watch models, making the devices more reliable and secure.
Conclusion
The November 2024 update marks an important step for Google’s Pixel Watch series, addressing previous issues and resuming the rollout of Wear OS 5. With a range of bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features, users can look forward to a smoother and more responsive experience on their Pixel Watch devices.
If you own a Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, or Pixel Watch 3, be sure to check for updates and install the latest software to enjoy the enhanced functionality and security improvements.
Android
Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1: New features, custom modes, Linux Terminal app, and revamped Pixel wallpaper experience Introduction
Google is already pushing out the Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 update to its Pixel devices, even before the official release of QPR1 in December. This new Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) brings a host of exciting changes, bug fixes, and fresh features to improve user experience. Let’s dive into all the significant updates coming with this release, including a customizable Do Not Disturb Mode, a new Linux Terminal app, and a redesigned Pixel wallpaper interface.
What is Android QPR?
QPR (Quarterly Platform Release) is a mid-cycle update strategy by Google to introduce significant features without waiting for a major Android release. Unlike regular monthly updates that focus on minor bug fixes, QPRs include bigger enhancements and UI changes, making them ideal for testing new features before the next major Android version. The stable release of Android 15 QPR2 is expected in March 2025.
Key Features of Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1
1. Customizable Do Not Disturb Modes
One of the standout features of Android 15 QPR2 is transforming the “Do Not Disturb” feature into a fully customizable “Modes” system. Here’s what’s new:
- Multiple Custom Modes: Users can now create different Modes, each tailored to specific needs. For example, you could have a “Work Mode,” “Sleep Mode,” or “Exercise Mode,” each with unique settings for notifications, alarms, and display options.
- Icon and Trigger Options: Each Mode can have its own icon and be triggered manually or automatically based on time, location, or connected devices. You can choose from over 40 different icons, which will be visible on the status bar and lock screen when the Mode is active.
- Quick Access: Modes can be easily toggled via the new Quick Settings tile, offering users a fast way to switch between different setups without diving into the settings menu.
This new system offers flexibility beyond the traditional “Do Not Disturb” and allows users to customize their phone experience according to their lifestyle.
2. Introduction of a Linux Terminal App
In a bid to enhance productivity on Android devices, Google has introduced a Linux Terminal app in Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1. Here’s what this feature entails:
- Linux Terminal Integration: This feature is designed for developers who need to run Linux commands or apps directly on their Android devices. It uses the Android Virtualization Framework (AVF) to enable a secure environment for running Linux distributions like Debian.
- Developer Options: The Linux Terminal can be enabled from the Developer options under Settings > System. After activation, a Terminal app appears, ready to execute Linux commands.
- AVF Expansion: Initially introduced in Android 13, AVF was created to securely compile sensitive code. In Android 15, Google has expanded its capabilities to support full-fledged operating systems, allowing a seamless experience when running Linux apps.
This update marks a step forward in making Android devices, especially those with larger screens like tablets, more suitable for developers looking to perform complex tasks on the go.
3. Early Redesign of the Pixel Wallpaper App
Google is also revamping the Pixel wallpaper app with changes spotted in the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1 update. Here’s what to expect:
- Streamlined UI: The traditional tabs for customizing the home screen and lock screen have been replaced with a new swipe-based carousel. This change simplifies navigation, allowing users to switch between home screen and lock screen customization effortlessly.
- New Clock and Shortcut Customization: Customizing the lock screen clock style and shortcuts is now integrated into a bottom sheet design. This new interface displays all clock styles and shortcut options in a single, scrollable view, making it easier to select and preview changes.
- Enhanced Color Palette Picker: The system color picker has been updated to show more options at once. When selecting a color palette, the home screen preview zooms in, providing a clearer view of how the icons and theme will look. The dark theme toggle is also integrated for a quick preview of the theme in dark mode.
These UI changes aim to make the wallpaper and style customization process more intuitive, giving users a better preview of their adjustments.
Device Compatibility
The Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 update is available for a wide range of Pixel devices, including:
- Pixel 6 Series: Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7 Series: Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 Series: Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Others: Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold
- Android Emulator: Available for developers using Android Studio
Users enrolled in the Android Beta Program for Pixel can receive the update via OTA (Over-The-Air). Alternatively, users can manually flash the factory image or sideload the update if needed.
How to Install the Android 15 QPR2 Beta
To get started with the Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 update:
- Join the Android Beta Program: Enroll your compatible Pixel device at the Android Beta Program website.
- Check for Updates: Once enrolled, go to Settings > System > System Update to download the beta update.
- Flash or Sideload: Advanced users can also opt to flash the factory image or sideload the OTA update manually.
Upcoming Features and Expectations
While this update brings substantial new features, it’s clear that Google is laying the groundwork for even more significant changes expected in Android 16, slated for release in 2025. Some anticipated improvements include:
- Further Enhancement of Linux Integration: With the introduction of the Linux Terminal app, Google is expected to expand its capabilities, possibly supporting more Linux distributions and better compatibility with Android’s Virtualization Framework.
- Advanced Customization with Modes: As Google continues to refine the Modes feature, we might see more triggers and deeper integration with third-party apps and services, making it even more versatile.
- UI Overhauls Across Pixel Devices: Based on the early design changes in the wallpaper app, we can anticipate a more cohesive design language throughout Pixel’s UI in future updates.
Conclusion
The Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 update brings exciting enhancements to Pixel devices, focusing on productivity, customization, and user experience. With features like the customizable Modes system, a developer-focused Linux Terminal app, and a revamped Pixel wallpaper app, Google is setting the stage for a more versatile and user-friendly Android ecosystem. Users looking to get an early taste of these features can join the Android Beta Program, but it’s advisable to back up your data as betas may still have some stability issues.
This update is just the beginning, and we can expect even more polished features in the stable release slated for March 2025. As Google continues its quarterly update strategy, Android users can look forward to receiving new capabilities and enhancements more frequently, making the Android experience more dynamic than ever.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold Repair Costs: A detailed breakdown
Google’s latest foldable, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, comes with a hefty price tag for repairs, especially its inner screen. The replacement of this ultra-thin LTPO OLED display, which includes the frame and hinge, costs between $899.99 and $1,199.99. This is due to its advanced design, featuring a resolution of 2076 x 2152 pixels. The outer screen is more affordable at $189.99.
For other repairs, iFixit offers parts like the rear camera assembly ($249.99), the front cameras ($79.99-$89.99), and a USB-C charging port for $59.99. Battery replacements are priced at $66.99 each for both the base and flip batteries.
The repair process for the inner display is complex, requiring 199 detailed steps and around 3-4 hours to complete. This reflects the intricate design and build of Google’s latest foldable, catering to users who may encounter issues with this sophisticated device.
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