Google Contacts revamps contact creation and gears up for Apple’s stolen device protection-like feature
Top 3 Key Points:
- Google Contacts redesign simplifies creating new contacts with centered fields and shortcuts.
- Android 15 may introduce “mandatory biometrics,” restricting fallback PIN/password access outside trusted locations.
- Google aims to improve security, borrowing features from Apple’s Stolen Device Protection.
Google Contacts has introduced a major update to its contact creation process. This change simplifies how you add new contacts, while Google also prepares to enhance security in Android 15 with a feature similar to Apple’s Stolen Device Protection.
Google Contacts Redesign
The updated Google Contacts app (version 4.39) revamps the way users create new contacts. As usual, the profile photo appears at the top, followed by first and last name fields. However, the dropdown for adding a prefix, middle name, or suffix has been removed, making the interface cleaner.
The “Company” field remains the same but now lacks the small icons that previously accompanied the fields. One noticeable change is that fields such as email and significant dates are hidden behind a button, focusing more on phone numbers, which come with a pre-filled country code.
This redesign also introduces shortcuts to add an address or assign a label, while the “Notes” section is still available at the bottom. You can add additional details like middle names, nicknames, job titles, and more via the “Add fields” button.
Android’s Improved Security Measures
In parallel, Google is working on a security feature similar to Apple’s Stolen Device Protection. Android 15 QPR1 is expected to include an update called “Identity Check,” which enhances device security by focusing on biometric authentication.
Currently, Android apps use a biometric prompt (like fingerprint or face recognition), but users can still bypass this using a PIN or password. Google aims to change that by making biometric authentication mandatory when the phone is outside “trusted locations.” This means when your phone leaves a familiar area, like your home, Android will block PIN/password fallbacks, ensuring stronger security.
This new feature, discovered in the Android 15 Beta, mimics Apple’s method of securing sensitive data when an iPhone leaves a trusted environment. It also ties into Google’s Trusted Places, where the phone stays unlocked in certain locations. Once rolled out, the feature will likely require Android 15 or higher to operate.
Final Thoughts
Google’s latest updates in Contacts and Android security show a clear focus on user experience and safety. While the Contacts redesign makes adding details easier, Android’s upcoming security features signal a step forward in protecting personal data, especially in case of theft. Both updates promise a more seamless and secure user experience.
Google is getting ready to show off its brand-new Pixel 10 smartphone, and it wants its most loyal fans to be part of the excitement. The company is planning a special event for June, before the official launch. This event is especially for “superfans”—people who really love Pixel phones and always want to try the latest tech.
At this event, Google will give these fans a close look at the Pixel 10. They might get to see new features, learn about how the phone works, and even share their thoughts with Google. This is a chance for Google to hear from fans before the phone comes out for everyone. Superfans are often the first to know about new updates and features, and Google values their feedback.
By inviting superfans early, Google hopes to make the Pixel 10 launch even better. The company wants to learn what fans like and what could be improved. This way, they can make small changes before the big release. The event is a sign that Google cares about its users and wants them to feel special.
In short, if you are a big Pixel fan, keep an eye out for an invitation to this special June event. You could be one of the first to see the Pixel 10 up close and help shape its future!
Google’s Gemini app is getting exciting new updates. One big change is that you can now use a new AI tool called Veo 3. This tool helps you make videos just by typing what you want. It’s part of Gemini Ultra, which is a smarter version of the AI. With Veo 3, you can create short videos easily, even if you don’t know how to edit videos.
Another new feature is called Gemini Live with Camera. Now, you can use your phone’s camera to show things to Gemini, and it will help you right away. For example, if you point your camera at a plant, Gemini can tell you what kind it is. This works on your phone’s screen, and it’s made to be easy for anyone to use.
Google is also making the weather app on Pixel phones better. Now, you can see weather maps more clearly. The app will show you detailed maps with rain, clouds, and more. This helps you plan your day better by knowing what the weather will be like.
All these updates make using Google’s apps more fun and helpful. They show how Google is always working to make things easier and smarter for everyone.
Google has fixed an issue with Google Wallet on Wear OS smartwatches that was making it hard for users to use their PIN code. Before this fix, some users found that when they tried to use Google Wallet to pay with their watch, they were not able to enter their PIN. This made it difficult or even impossible to use the payment feature.
The problem seemed to happen mostly after users updated their smartwatch software or after restarting their device. Some people also noticed it when they locked their watch and then tried to unlock it to make a payment. The issue was frustrating because users could not complete transactions without the correct PIN.
Google has now released an update for Google Wallet on Wear OS. This update solves the problem, so users can once again enter their PIN and use their watch to pay for things. The company did not say if this fix would come as a separate update or as part of a bigger system update. But users should check for updates on their smartwatch to make sure they have the latest version of Google Wallet.
This is good news for people who use their smartwatches to pay for things every day. Now, they can use their watch to pay without worrying about PIN problems. The update should make using Google Wallet on Wear OS watches easier and more reliable. If you are still having trouble, make sure your watch is updated and try restarting it.
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