Google is making Android and Wear OS even better with some helpful new features.

Easier call controls with Android 16

Android 16 is testing a new “call chip” that makes it easier to manage phone calls. When you’re on a call, a small button will appear at the top of your screen. This “call chip” lets you quickly get back to your call if you switch to another app. You can tap it to return to the call screen, mute yourself, or hang up, all without searching for the call app. This update should make handling calls much simpler, especially if you often multitask on your phone.

Earthquake alerts coming to wear os smartwatches

Google is also bringing earthquake alerts to Wear OS smartwatches. If there’s an earthquake nearby, your watch will vibrate and show a warning on the screen. This helps you get alerts even if your phone isn’t in your hand. The feature uses the same technology as Android’s earthquake alert system, which gathers data from phones to detect quakes quickly. Now, with alerts on your wrist, you can get to safety even faster.

What does this mean for users

These updates show that Google wants to make daily life safer and easier. With better call controls and quick earthquake warnings, Android and Wear OS devices are becoming even more helpful for everyone.

Google has released the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update, and it comes with some interesting changes for Pixel phones. The update adds transparent notifications, making alerts look lighter and less blocky on your screen. Now, when you get a message or alert, the background of the notification is see-through, so you can still see a bit of your wallpaper or whatever is behind it. This small change makes your phone look cleaner and more modern.

Another big change is in the Pixel Launcher’s search feature. When you swipe up to search for apps or information, you’ll notice a new look. The search bar is now rounded and sits at the top of the screen, making it easier to spot. Suggestions for apps and actions are now shown in a simpler list, and the whole search area feels more organized. This redesign helps you find what you need faster and keeps things looking neat.

Both of these updates show that Google is working to make Android easier and nicer to use. The see-through notifications and improved search are small tweaks, but they make a big difference in how your phone feels day-to-day. If you have a Pixel phone and like trying new features, this beta update is worth checking out.

Google has released some new updates for both the Pixel Watch and Android 16, making devices easier and more fun to use.

Pixel Watch gets June 2025 update

The Pixel Watch is getting its June 2025 update, which brings bug fixes and better security. This update helps keep your watch running smoothly and safely. If you have a Pixel Watch, you should see the update soon.

Android 16 introduces better sound settings

Android 16 Beta 2 now has a new sound menu. This menu puts all the sound and vibration settings in one place, so you can easily change things like ringtones, alarms, and notification sounds. It’s now much simpler to control how your phone sounds.

First look at Android 16 desktop mode

Android 16 is also working on a desktop mode. This feature lets you use your phone more like a computer when you connect it to a bigger screen. You can move apps around, open more than one window, and work more efficiently.

live effects for wallpapers

Another new feature in Android 16 is the “Live Effects” section in the wallpaper picker. Now, you can add cool effects to your wallpapers, making your home screen look more lively and personal.

New wi-fi icons

Android 16 is also updating the Wi-Fi icons. The new icons are easier to understand, so you can quickly see how strong your connection is.

These updates show that Google is working hard to make devices simpler and more enjoyable for everyone to use.