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Google Pixel: Hidden app risks and faster charging Pixel Buds Pro 2

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Google

Key Points:

  1. Security Risk: Hidden apps in Pixel phones could be exploited by cybercriminals.
  2. Immediate Action: Palantir bans Android devices after discovery.
  3. Charging Boost: Pixel Buds Pro 2 charges faster with improved wireless tech.

Google’s Pixel 2 and later smartphones are now facing significant security concerns after a hidden app, potentially exploitable by cybercriminals, was discovered. According to iVerify, a mobile threat detection firm, this app could be used to monitor users or take remote control of their devices.

Hidden App Raises Security Alarms

The problematic app, known as “Showcase,” was initially designed by Smith Micro for Verizon sales staff to demonstrate Pixel devices. However, a recent investigation by iVerify and its client Palantir Technologies, which provides defense software to the U.S. military, revealed that this app presents serious security flaws.

The app, though dormant by default, can be remotely activated, raising concerns that hackers could exploit it to download malicious instructions via an insecure website. Although Google claims that physical access and a user password are required to misuse the app, the inability of users to uninstall it makes millions of Pixel devices vulnerable to potential attacks.

Due to the sensitive nature of Palantir’s operations, the company immediately banned the use of Android devices in its offices. Google has been informed of the issue and plans to release an update to remove the app from all affected Pixel phones. Google spokesperson Ed Fernandez stated that no devices have been reported as compromised through Showcase and that the likelihood of such an incident remains low.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: Faster Wireless Charging

In other news, Google recently unveiled the Pixel Buds Pro 2, which promise to be a top choice for wireless earbuds among Android users. These earbuds not only offer excellent sound quality, noise cancellation, and a long battery life but also feature faster wireless charging capabilities.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 case can now wirelessly charge at a maximum of 5W, which is double the speed of the original Pixel Buds Pro. This means users can expect shorter downtime, as the case can quickly recharge the earbuds multiple times, providing up to 30 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation enabled.

The earbuds will be available in several colors, including Porcelain, Hazel, Wintergreen, and Peony, and are priced at $229 in the U.S., £219 in the UK, and €249 in Europe. Pre-orders are already open, with the earbuds set to launch next month.

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Google

New Pixel Watch feature simplifies phone swaps

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Google Pixel Watch

Google has introduced a smart new tool for Pixel Watch owners to ease the transition when upgrading to a new phone. The latest Pixel Watch app update (version 2.2) now includes a “Switch phone” prompt that pops up when the app notices your watch is linked to a different device. This alert, visible on the app’s home screen, guides you to connect your watch to the new phone effortlessly.

The feature walks users through the steps to transfer their Pixel Watch, ensuring a smooth setup. Once completed, the prompt vanishes, and the app updates to show the new connection. It supports all models—Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Watch 3—but requires the newest app version, so you may need to update.

This addition addresses a common hassle where users forget to re-pair their watch after switching phones, which can lead to syncing issues. However, the reminder might feel a bit insistent for those not ready to make the switch immediately. It’s unclear if you can turn off the prompt for good.

Google’s attention to practical tweaks like this highlights their commitment to improving user experience. The phone switch feature saves time and reduces frustration, especially for frequent phone upgraders. If you’ve recently changed phones, open the Pixel Watch app to check out this helpful tool.

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Android

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

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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!

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Google

Smart home and navigation upgrades for easier living

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Google

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.

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