Apps
Google Pay (GPay) discontinued in the US, switch to Wallet
Google Pay is no longer accessible in the US. Following the announcement made in February, Google pulled support from its payment platform in the country, advising users to switch to Google Wallet.
GPay is a popular payment service available in various parts of the world. Earlier, Google Wallet made its debut in the Indian market, but the company noted that GPay won’t be discontinued in the country.
Meanwhile, it isn’t the same case for the US residents. GPay is not available in the country, making Google Wallet the only payment platform offered by Google. It offers tap-to-pay and the ability to digitize your physical wallet.
Starting on June 4, GPay automatically signed US users out. Attempting to log in again explains how: “The Google Pay US app is no longer available. You can still tap to pay using the Google Wallet app.”
Apart from this, the company no longer offers peer-to-peer payments in the US. You can use the Google Pay website to view and transfer your balance — money you’ve received or rewards— to a bank account after June.
Apps
Google Maps lets you report traffic jams and accidents on Apple CarPlay, but not on Android Auto
Google just added a feature that lets you report accidents, slowdowns, and other road issues directly from your car’s display. Well, it is currently limited to Google Maps on Apple CarPlay.
Similar to Waze, Google Maps on CarPlay now has a button to report accidents, slowdowns, construction, lane closures, stalled vehicles, objects on the road, and even speed traps. Just like before, you can still see reports from other drivers about these issues on your route.
By reporting issues, you can help other drivers avoid traffic jams and accidents. With everyone contributing information, Google Maps can provide more accurate traffic conditions and ETAs.
Unfortunately, Android Auto users are still left out. We’ve been asking Google to add this feature for a while now, so hopefully it’s coming soon!
This feature is new and might not be available to everyone yet. In the meantime, stay safe on the roads and report any issues you see on Google Maps if you’re using CarPlay.
Apps
Google working on a new video editing feature for its Photo app
Google Photos app is about to take your video editing a step further. A hidden feature found in app version 6.90 hints at an upcoming video speed editor (via Android Authority). This means you’ll be able to ditch third-party apps and adjust video playback directly within Google Photos.
The video editor offers various speeds like 1/4x for super slow-mo or 4x for fast-forwarding. You can even choose to adjust the entire video or just a specific section, perfect for highlighting key moments. It’s still under development, so expect a more user-friendly icon instead of the current “1x” placeholder.
Additionally, future updates might allow you to fine-tune the speed of different parts within the same video for even more control.
This upcoming video speed editor marks a significant upgrade for Google Photos, making it a more comprehensive video editing tool. Keep an eye out for this update to add some fun and flexibility to your video editing experience.
Apps
Google Contacts app testing new Besties Widget
Contacts app’s version 4.35 suggests that Google is working on a Besties Widget. The app’s forthcoming Besties Widget has the exact layout as the Favorite widget and shows starred contacts.
9to5Google spotted that Google Contacts for Android will soon get a new Besties Widget. Meanwhile, the APKTeardown has not revealed the functionality or widget design.
It is expected that the new Besties Widget will replace the Favorite widget. As of now, the widget hasn’t reached its functional stage, however, a future update to the app will bring significant development.
It is assumed that the widget’s development is currently in quite early phases. Recently, the Contacts app updated its individual contact widget with the ability to display notifications.
You can download the app from the Google Play Store for your Android device for free.
-
Apps8 months ago
Gboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
News8 months ago
Samsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
News7 months ago
Breaking: Samsung Galaxy S22 may get Galaxy AI features
-
News7 months ago
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra with One UI 6.1 and all S24 AI features revealed
-
News8 months ago
One UI 6.1 Auracast (Bluetooth LE Audio) feature coming to many Samsung phones
-
News8 months ago
Satellite SOS feature coming to Google Pixel phones, evidence leaked
-
Apps5 months ago
Google’s fancy new Weather app is finally available for more Android phones
-
News8 months ago
Google Pixel evolves as Europe’s third best selling flagship