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Google introduces ‘Hold Close to Cast’ for UWB Pixel phones and Pixel Tablet

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Google

Google is enhancing its multi-device experience by rolling out a new feature called “Hold Close to Cast” for its UWB-supported Pixel devices. This update allows users to easily cast media between Pixel Pro phones and the Pixel Tablet, making media sharing smoother and faster.

What is “Hold Close to Cast”?

Originally announced at CES in January as part of Google’s push towards seamless multi-device functionality, “Hold Close to Cast” (also known as tap-to-cast) simplifies media transfer between devices. Users can now bring their Pixel Pro phone near a Pixel Tablet to instantly cast media content, such as music or videos. This feature works in both directions, meaning users can transfer media back and forth between their phone and tablet. While the feature is intended to be widely compatible, it is currently supported by apps like YouTube Music and Spotify, though not all media apps are guaranteed to work at this stage.

Leveraging Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Technology

The “Hold Close to Cast” feature relies on Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, in addition to other wireless protocols. UWB offers precise, short-range communication between devices, making the process of transferring media faster and more accurate. However, not every Pixel phone supports this feature. It’s only available on the Pro models, including the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Additionally, to use this feature, your Pixel Tablet must be docked, and both devices should be connected to the same private Wi-Fi network.

How to Enable “Hold Close to Cast”

If you have a compatible device, enabling this feature is simple. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Pixel device.
  2. Navigate to Google > All Services.
  3. Select Cast Options to turn on “Hold Close to Cast.”

Though the name might sound a bit technical, it’s designed to describe the core function—casting media by bringing devices close together.

Availability of the Feature

This new functionality is being rolled out gradually with version 24.42.32 of Google Play Services. However, it may not be available for all users just yet, as Google is still expanding the rollout. Keep an eye on updates to make sure you get access to the feature as soon as it’s available.

By introducing “Hold Close to Cast,” Google is moving a step closer to making seamless device integration a reality, allowing users to easily share content across their Pixel ecosystem. This feature, combined with the powerful UWB technology, is set to enhance media sharing and syncing, offering a more connected and integrated experience across devices.

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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

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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