Google lifts limit on Contacts widget and introduces freeform Windows to Android, drawing inspiration from Samsung DeX
Top 3 Key Points:
- Google is removing the seven-contact limit on the home screen Contacts widget.
- Freeform Windows feature is coming to Android, inspired by Samsung’s DeX.
- Android’s new windowing system will enhance multitasking with resizable app windows.
Google is making changes to its Contacts app by lifting the restriction on the home screen Contacts widget. Previously, users could only view up to seven of their favorite contacts in this widget, but this limit will soon be removed.
According to Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug, who tested version 4.40.48.672619802 of the Google Contacts app, users can now add more than seven contacts to their widget. During testing, 16 contacts were successfully added, and the widget now features a scroller, allowing users to easily swipe through their favorite contacts. Additionally, the widget can be resized to cover more of the home screen if needed.
A notable improvement is that contact names will now appear in the widget, rather than just the avatars, enhancing ease of use. This change addresses a common user expectation and will roll out soon to all users.
Inspired by Samsung DeX
Samsung’s DeX feature, popular among Galaxy users, offers a desktop-like experience on mobile devices, making multitasking more efficient. Although DeX is a Samsung-specific feature, Google is bringing similar functionality to all Android devices through freeform app windows. Google introduced “Desktop Windowing” in the Android 15 Developer Preview, specifically aimed at tablets.
This new feature allows users to freely resize app windows, similar to systems like ChromeOS and macOS. Users will be able to open multiple instances of the same app, and instead of full-screen apps, windows will float on the desktop. You can maximize or minimize them, making multitasking smoother and more flexible.
To use this feature, users can drag the app window handle or use a keyboard shortcut: Meta Key + Ctrl + Down Arrow. This system is also expected to be available for foldable Android phones, which benefit from larger screens.
Though not all apps may work well with this feature right away, especially in landscape mode, Google is encouraging developers to optimize their apps for this new windowing experience. They plan to address any display issues by adjusting the app’s user interface for better scaling.
With these updates, Android users will have a more customizable and productive experience, improving both communication and multitasking capabilities.
Google Calendar is getting a fresh look with a new visual design. Along with the updated look, Google has added some handy new features to simplify managing your schedule.
One of the most noticeable changes is the return of the three buttons for creating new events. You can now quickly choose between making a regular appointment, a task, or a birthday event.
Birthday Reminders
For birthdays, you can set reminders for the day itself, a week before, or even further in advance. This is a great way to ensure you never forget a special occasion.
Google Photos Gets Smarter
Google Photos is also getting a significant upgrade with the introduction of “Ask Photos”. This new feature allows you to ask questions about your photos using natural language. For example, you could ask “When was the last time I went to the beach?” or “Who is that person in the photo?”
AI-Powered Search
Using artificial intelligence, Ask Photos can analyze your photos and provide relevant answers to your questions. While it’s still in its early stages, Google promises that Ask Photos will become even more powerful over time.
Quick Search Tips for Google Photos and Play Store
Google has also made it easier to search for apps and photos. You can now quickly access the search bar in both Google Photos and the Play Store by double-tapping the search icon. This eliminates the extra step of opening the search tab first.
These new features are a welcome addition to Google Calendar and Google Photos. They make it easier to manage your schedule and find the photos you’re looking for.
Google Photos is rolling out a powerful new feature called Ask Photos! This AI-powered tool lets you search your photo library with natural language questions. Gone are the days of clunky keywords. Now, you can ask things like “Show me Halloween costumes over the years” or “When did my child learn to swim?”
The feature is still in its early stages, but it shows great promise. It appears as a new tab in the Photos app, replacing the “Search” function. Initially, it focuses on recognizing people and places in your photos. It might not be perfect for events or objects yet, but it’s constantly learning.
Signing Up for Ask Photos:
While not available to everyone yet, Google opened a waitlist last month. If you signed up, keep an eye out for the update! For others, the waitlist is still open (US only for now).
A New Look for Google Shopping:
In addition to the exciting Photos update, Google Shopping is getting a makeover! It seems a new logo is on the way, replacing the familiar price tag icon. The new logo is a simplified shopping bag in Google’s signature colors, swirling together for a clean, modern look.
The website itself might also be getting a refresh. We spotted glimpses of a redesigned site with a user-friendly layout and helpful features like browsing recommendations and price comparisons.
What’s Next?
While official announcements from Google are likely forthcoming, these updates hint at exciting things to come for Google Photos and Shopping. Ask Photos has the potential to revolutionize how you search your memories, and the Google Shopping revamp promises a more streamlined shopping experience.
Google has released a new version of Android Auto, version 13.0. While you won’t see any big changes on the surface, some important updates are happening under the hood.
What’s New?
- Car Media: Google is working on a new feature called “Car Media.” This feature will allow you to easily control your car’s AM/FM radio and local media.
- Bug Fixes: The update includes bug fixes and improvements to make Android Auto run smoothly.
When Will Car Media Be Available?
Google hasn’t announced an official release date for Car Media yet. But they’re actively working on it, and we might see it in a future update.
How to Get Android Auto 13.0
The Android Auto 13.0 update is available now on the Google Play Store. Just search for “Android Auto” and install the latest version.
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