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Google Pixel 8, 8a and 8 Pro can be located even when powered off

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Google Pixel 8a

Thanks to the Find My Device network, Google Pixel 8, 8a, and 8 Pro can be located even when powered off. Google initiated the rollout of upgraded Find My Device functionality last month, which is still expanding slowly in the United States and Canada.

Google made it possible on Pixel 8, 8a, and 8 Pro with specialized hardware. It means over-the-air Android updates may not bring the powered-off finder service to older devices. It’s quite disappointing for users having phones like the Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 series.

Find My Device network

Android phones supporting the Find My Device network broadcast a beacon over Bluetooth that other nearby Android devices can pick up on. The receiver device encrypts the location of the broadcasting device and uploads it to Google’s servers.

The Pixel 8 series phones have reserve power channeled to the Bluetooth chip for several hours even after the battery is dead. This makes it possible to broadcast beacons over Bluetooth when powered off or out of battery, which most Android devices can’t.

The newly launched Pixel 8a comes with the same Tensor and Bluetooth chip as the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. While Google hasn’t officially revealed the offline finding feature on 8a, it supports Powered-Off Finding because Google set the system property ro.bluetooth.finder.supported to true on the device.

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Android

Google Pixel Weather app now shows pollen info in the US

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Google

Google is adding a new feature to its Pixel Weather app. Now, users in the United States can see pollen levels in their area. This update is especially helpful for people who have allergies and need to know when pollen is high.

In the Weather app, there’s a new section under the daily forecast that shows pollen conditions. It uses simple labels like “low,” “moderate,” and “high” so it’s easy to understand. This new feature pulls information from the same source that Google Search uses for pollen updates.

However, the new pollen section in the Pixel Weather app is only available in the US for now. If you’re outside the US, you won’t see the pollen data yet. Also, not every user may get it immediately, as Google is still rolling out the update.

To use the feature, you need to have the latest version of the Pixel Weather app, which comes built into Pixel devices. Google may expand this feature to more countries in the future, but there’s no official date yet.

Overall, this small update can make a big difference for users who want quick and easy access to local pollen conditions without searching separately.

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Android

Android 16 boosts USB data safety and fixes delayed notifications on Pixel phones

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Android 16

Google’s upcoming Android 16 update is bringing better security and some helpful improvements, especially for Pixel phone users. One of the main features in Android 16 is a new way to protect your phone’s data when it’s connected to a computer through USB. Right now, when you plug your phone into a PC or laptop, it can access all your data as long as you approve it.

With Android 16, Google is adding an extra security layer that only allows limited access unless you enter your PIN, password, or use your fingerprint. This will help protect your files if someone tries to access your phone without permission.

At the same time, Google is also working on a fix for a frustrating issue that some Pixel users have been facing for months — delayed notifications. After the April 2024 update, many users noticed that app alerts were not showing up on time, especially from messaging apps. Google has confirmed the problem and says a fix will be included in a future update, though it’s not in the current April patch yet.

Together, these changes show that Google is focusing on both stronger privacy and a smoother experience for Android and Pixel users. Android 16 is expected to roll out later this year, starting with developer previews.

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Google

Google gives Pixel 7a owners more time for repairs with new program

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Google Pixel 7a

Google has just announced a new repair program for Pixel 7a owners. This extended program gives users more time to fix certain hardware problems, even after the standard warranty ends.

Usually, Google’s Pixel phones come with a one-year warranty. But now, Pixel 7a owners in the U.S. can benefit from an extended repair option for specific issues. This includes problems with the power button, charging port, touch screen, speaker, and microphone. If any of these parts stop working, users may still be able to get them fixed even after the original warranty period ends.

This new program is similar to ones already offered for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. It shows that Google is trying to give users more support, especially when it comes to keeping their devices working longer.

To get a repair, users can visit the official Google Pixel support site. There, they can check if their phone is eligible and find out how to send it in or visit a repair shop. The program doesn’t cover damage caused by accidents or misuse, but it’s a helpful option for common issues.

By offering this, Google is making it easier for Pixel 7a users to hang on to their phones longer without needing to pay for a full replacement.

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