Google

Google’s Pixel 9 phones lack Qi2 support, but a mod enables landscape charging

Published

9 months ago

August 14, 2024

Tom Carter

Top 3 Key Points:

Google’s Pixel 9 series does not support the Qi2 wireless charging standard.
A mod allows Pixel phones to charge in landscape mode with the Pixel Stand.
The Pixel Stand’s original design limits charging orientation, but a 3D-printed kickstand offers a solution.

Google’s new Pixel 9 series has stirred some disappointment among tech enthusiasts, as it does not support the latest Qi2 wireless charging standard. Many expected this feature, but the Pixel 9 phones lack the necessary magnetic ring for Qi2 compatibility. This is likely because the Pixel 9 series was already in development when the Qi2 standard was finalized. However, there is hope that next year’s Pixel 10 series will include Qi2 support.

Despite the absence of Qi2, all four Pixel 9 models still offer wireless charging, although at varying speeds depending on the device. To achieve the fastest charging speeds, users need to use the Pixel Stand, which supports Qi wireless charging up to 12W.

Interestingly, third-party case manufacturers might address this limitation by incorporating charging magnets in their cases, just as they did for the previous Pixel 8 series. This could allow for more convenient wireless charging, even without native Qi2 support.

Currently, Qi2 is still in its early stages, with limited device support. While some devices, like the HMD Skyline, have adopted the standard, it has yet to become widespread. Additionally, Pixel 9 phones don’t come with a charger in the box, although Google recommends using their 45W charger for optimal performance.

The Pixel 9 series includes three standard models and one foldable version, offering users a range of options. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a significant upgrade from the previous Pixel Fold, featuring a new design and improved functionality, including a modified aspect ratio.

Regarding wireless charging, the Pixel Stand, while functional, has its quirks. It generally works best when the phone is placed in a specific orientation. However, a clever mod allows users to charge their Pixel phones in landscape mode. This mod involves a simple 3D-printed kickstand that raises the phone to align the charging coils, enabling effective charging in landscape orientation—a feature that was easily accessible with the first-generation Pixel Stand.

This kickstand doesn’t interfere with airflow from the Pixel Stand’s cooling fans, ensuring the phone stays cool while charging. Though the original creator of this mod hasn’t shared the design files, this solution demonstrates a creative approach to overcoming the Pixel Stand’s orientation limitations.

Source/Via

Android

Google’s May 2025 Android updates: better performance and messaging

Published

11 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Tom Carter

Google’s May 2025 Android updates bring exciting changes to improve how your phone works and how you message. These updates focus on making devices faster, safer, and more user-friendly.
One big change is to Android’s memory system. By increasing the memory page size from 4KB to 16KB on newer devices, apps can load quicker and use less power. This helps phones, especially those with modern chips, run smoothly and save battery life. Older devices will stick with the smaller page size to avoid issues.

The Google System Updates for May also add new features. Google Wallet now supports more card types and makes transit passes easier to use in apps like Google Maps. The Play Store now shows video previews of apps, helping you decide what to download. There are also fixes to improve battery life, storage, and network performance, making your phone more reliable.

For Google Messages, a new “delete for everyone” feature lets you remove sent messages from group chats within 15 minutes. This works for both RCS and SMS, so you can fix mistakes easily. Other messaging upgrades include better scam detection and the ability to send high-quality photos and videos. These updates show Google’s effort to make Android devices faster, more secure, and better for communication. Keep your phone updated to enjoy these improvements!

Google

Smart home and navigation upgrades for easier living

Published

11 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Tom Carter

Google Maps is making driving more fun with a new feature for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Now, you can pick different car icons to show your vehicle on the map. Choose from options like a sleek sedan, a rugged SUV, or a cool arrow.

This small change adds a personal touch to your navigation and is rolling out to all users soon. Meanwhile, Ecobee’s Smart Doorbell Camera is getting a big upgrade with Google Home support. You can now see who’s at your door right from the Google Home app, view live video, and even talk to visitors.

If you have a Nest Hub, the doorbell feed pops up automatically when someone rings. This feature, already available for Ecobee’s thermostat, makes your smart home setup smoother and is available now for all users. On the AI front, Google’s Gemini app is getting smarter with the Gemini 2.5 Pro preview.

This update improves coding skills, helping developers create better apps and websites. It also handles video and text tasks more effectively. The preview is out for everyone to try, with Google planning to share more at its I/O 2025 event. These updates from Google and Ecobee bring small but meaningful improvements, making your car rides, home security, and digital tasks easier and more enjoyable.

Google

Google updates Chrome, Search, and Play Store for better user experience

Published

20 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Tom Carter

Google is rolling out exciting updates to make browsing, searching, and downloading apps smoother and safer for Android users. These changes focus on improving Chrome’s security, redesigning the Google Search bar, and enhancing the Google Play Store’s download process.

Chrome’s Improved Security

Google Chrome now offers stronger protection with “Enhanced Safe Browsing” powered by Gemini Nano, an AI model that works directly on your device. This feature checks websites in real-time to spot phishing attempts and other online threats, keeping your data safe without relying on cloud servers. It’s a step up from the standard protection, giving users more peace of mind while browsing.

Redesigned Google Search Bar

The Google Search bar on Android is getting a fresh look. It’s now simpler and easier to use, with a modern design that fits better with your phone’s home screen. The updated widget lets you access Search, Lens, or voice commands quickly. The new layout is clean and user-friendly, making searches faster and more intuitive.

Better Play Store Downloads

The Google Play Store is improving how it shows app download progress. A new notification design displays a progress bar right in your notification panel, so you can track downloads without opening the app. This small but helpful change makes managing app installs more convenient.

These updates show Google’s focus on creating a safer, simpler, and more efficient experience for Android users. They’re rolling out gradually, so keep an eye out for them on your device!