Google

Pixel 9: Enhanced setup, seamless data transfer, and satellite SOS integration

Published

9 months ago

August 22, 2024

Tom Carter

Top 3 Key Points:

Improved Setup: Pixel 9 introduces a faster and more flexible data transfer process, including an Express setup for quick migration.
Seamless Messaging Transfer: Google Messages now offers a carbon copy of your chat history during transfer, ensuring no data is lost.
Emergency Satellite SOS: Pixel 9 can connect to emergency services via satellite, initially available in the US.

Google has significantly enhanced the setup and data transfer experience with the Pixel 9, making it more user-friendly and efficient. The process now allows users to transfer data multiple times without needing a factory reset, using either a cable, Wi-Fi, or cloud storage. This gives users more control and flexibility during the setup.

A standout feature in the Pixel 9 is the new Express setup, which quickly transfers only media files not backed up to Google Photos in their original quality. This reduces the overall transfer time, providing an estimate to users and ensuring a smooth setup process. For those who prefer to customize their transfer, manual selection options are still available.

Google has also completely rebuilt the infrastructure for transferring Google Messages. With the latest version of Google Messages, users can now transfer a carbon copy of their message history, either via cable or Wi-Fi, making the transition to a new device seamless and reliable.

As promised, Google is now rolling out Satellite SOS to Google Pixel 9 users in the U.S.

Satellite SOS is free for the first two years after activation.

The satellite provider is Skylo and the emergency response is handled by Garmin.

Thanks to winner00 for the screenshots! pic.twitter.com/92lBbGCjbh

— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) August 22, 2024

Additionally, more system settings, permissions, and notification preferences are transferred, and more apps will remain logged in during the migration process. This is thanks to Google’s collaboration with top app developers globally, reducing the need to repeatedly enter passwords and log back into apps.

Pixel 9 now supports eSIM transfer during setup for select carriers, adding another layer of convenience. While Google had previously prioritized wireless data transfer, the Pixel 9 will now recommend switching to a cable if Wi-Fi transfer speeds are expected to be slow. However, the wireless transfer process itself has been improved for greater speed and reliability.

One notable innovation is Transport Multiplexing, a feature that combines wired and wireless methods to accelerate data transfer, surpassing the speed of using either method alone.

The Pixel 9 also introduces a feature similar to Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite. Now, users can connect to emergency services when they are outside of network coverage. Initially available in the US, this Satellite SOS feature requires Google Messages to be set as the default messaging app and can be accessed via the Safety & emergency menu in settings.

When using Satellite SOS, users must answer questions to ensure they receive the appropriate assistance. Once connected, the phone will share vital information, including your location and emergency contacts, with the relevant services. Google is offering this service free for the first two years, though future pricing is yet to be disclosed.

This satellite connectivity is powered by Google’s partnership with Skylo, with Garmin handling the emergency responses. While this feature is currently exclusive to the US, it is expected to expand to other regions soon. However, older Pixel models are unlikely to receive this update due to hardware limitations, making the Pixel 9 a standout in terms of connectivity and safety features.

Source

Android

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

Published

2 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

2 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

10 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!