Google enhances Chrome autofill for Password Managers and prepares for Gemini 2.0 launch with improved dark theme
To improve both security and user experience, Google is rolling out two major updates to its ecosystem: Chrome’s expanded support for third-party password managers on Android, and the upcoming release of Gemini 2.0, an advanced AI model with a refined dark theme.
Streamlining Password Management in Chrome on Android
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) stresses the importance of strong passwords—ones that are long, random, and unique for each site. This standard is crucial in today’s digital landscape but challenging to maintain with dozens of accounts. Chrome’s new update addresses this by allowing users to seamlessly integrate third-party password managers on Android, making it easier to manage passwords across sites without relying on Chrome’s built-in password manager.
Until now, users faced compatibility issues when using third-party password managers in Chrome. Though these managers could fill in forms, they often required additional setup and sometimes caused issues with scrolling and duplicate suggestions due to Chrome’s compatibility mode. With Chrome 131, set to launch in mid-November 2024, users will be able to use any password manager they choose without the need for compatibility mode. By early 2025, Chrome will phase out compatibility mode entirely, simplifying the process for those who prefer third-party managers.
After upgrading to Chrome 131, users can activate third-party password autofill by adjusting their Chrome settings, which includes selecting “Autofill using another service.” This step ensures a smooth transition to any preferred password manager, without interruptions in functionality. Additional setup instructions will be available in Chrome’s help resources and Google’s developer blog.
This update is part of Chrome’s broader improvements, which have included an official dark mode, added biometric security options, and accessibility enhancements. Facing rising competition from Firefox, Opera, Brave, and others, Google’s updates aim to keep Chrome as one of the most user-friendly browsers.
The Anticipated Release of Google’s Gemini 2.0
Looking toward the end of 2024, Google is gearing up to release Gemini 2.0, an advanced AI model with enhanced features for both developers and end-users. Following the initial release of Gemini 1.0 in December 2023, Gemini 2.0 promises performance improvements, although some initial reports suggest it may not fully meet the ambitious benchmarks set by the Google DeepMind team. Despite this, Gemini 2.0 is expected to offer more robust capabilities than its predecessors, which included Gemini 1.5’s expanded context window for users on the gemini.google.com platform.
Gemini 2.0’s anticipated release comes amid increased competition in AI, with other companies, such as OpenAI, rumored to be planning new models. Google’s yearly cycle of major AI model updates has kept pace with industry developments, typically aligning with announcements made during the annual Google I/O conference in May.
Gemini’s Dark Theme Refresh
Recent updates to the Gemini app have focused on improving the user experience, particularly for those who prefer a dark theme. The new design changes include a more subtle ‘plus’ icon that allows users to upload files or images, as well as redesigned microphone and camera buttons with a neutral gray background. These changes, seen in Google app beta version 14.42, create a cleaner, more cohesive look for the Gemini app in dark mode, making it more visually accessible.
Google’s ongoing adjustments to the Gemini app aim to enhance its usability and streamline the interface, making it a go-to resource for users engaging with Google’s AI services on mobile. These updates demonstrate Google’s commitment to refining the user experience in response to user feedback and evolving design trends.
What’s Next for Google
As Google moves forward with these updates, the focus on improving usability and security across Chrome and Gemini underscores its dedication to delivering a streamlined experience for users. Chrome’s enhanced password manager support will make it easier to maintain secure passwords across platforms, while the anticipated Gemini 2.0 launch and app redesign signal Google’s investment in creating user-friendly, accessible AI tools.
Google Wallet can now store digital versions of your US passport! This can be used for domestic travel security checks at TSA checkpoints if your state doesn’t offer a digital ID yet.
Here’s how to add your passport to Google Wallet:
- Open the Google Wallet app on your Android phone (version 9 or later).
- Tap “Add to Wallet” and then “ID” followed by “ID Pass.”
- Follow the steps to scan your passport information page and the security chip inside the back cover.
- Record a short video of yourself for verification.
Important things to remember:
- This digital passport isn’t a replacement for your physical passport, so always carry both when traveling.
- It currently only works for domestic travel within the US.
- If you lose your phone, you can remove the digital passport from your Google account.
Pixel phones get new features to improve battery health!
The latest update lets you set a charging limit of 80% to slow down battery degradation. There’s also a hidden feature called “bypass charging” that might be even more helpful.
What is bypass charging?
With bypass charging, when your battery reaches 80%, your phone will continue to use power directly from the charger instead of the battery. This reduces wear and tear on the battery, especially while gaming or using demanding apps.
Is bypass charging available on all Pixel phones?
It’s not entirely clear yet. The 80% charging limit works on many Pixel models, but bypass charging has only been confirmed on the Pixel 8 Pro so far. It likely works on Pixel 8, 8a, and the Pixel 9 series too, but Google hasn’t officially confirmed this.
Pixel Screenshots get smarter!
The latest update for Pixel Screenshots on Pixel 9 phones integrates with Gboard. Now, when you take a screenshot that includes a movie, song, or product, Pixel Screenshots remembers that information.
How does this help?
For example, if you screenshot a song title and then open a music app, Gboard might autofill the song name for you. This feature is called “proactive recall.”
Other Pixel Screenshots updates:
- The image viewer now suggests more search terms based on your screenshots.
- The app automatically categorizes your screenshots (this might take some time).
- You can easily save a specific part of a screenshot with “Circle to Search.”
This update also brings new features to Gboard, including a sticker pack and the ability to browse Emoji Kitchen combinations.
Gemini Gets a Mini Makeover:
- The website’s text field now looks like the mobile app.
- The Android app now shows your Gemini model type (like “1.5 Pro”).
40 New Templates for Google Docs:
- Google Docs has added new, modern templates for various uses like business proposals or meeting notes.
- These templates are designed to save you time by providing a starting point for your document.
- You can find them by going to File > New > From template gallery.
Customize Your Google Messages Profile:
- Google Messages now lets you easily edit your profile information, including name and picture.
- This helps people you message recognize you better.
More to Come:
- Google says to expect even more new Docs templates in the future.
- Google Messages’ profile feature is rolling out to everyone soon.
Some Pixel users who have updated to Android 15 QPR1 have noticed a strange visual bug. The update seems to be mixing up the light and dark themes for app icons.
For example, if your phone is set to light mode, you might see app icons appear in their dark mode versions. Conversely, if your phone is in dark mode, you might see light mode app icons. This can make the phone’s interface look inconsistent and a bit jarring.
This issue is particularly noticeable with themed icons, which are designed to match the system’s color scheme. However, due to this bug, they appear in the opposite color scheme, creating a visual mismatch.
While this is a minor bug, it can be quite annoying for users who prefer a consistent look and feel on their devices. Fortunately, Google is aware of the issue and is working on a fix. It’s likely that this bug will be addressed in a future update.
In the meantime, users will have to wait patiently for a resolution. While there’s no official workaround at the moment, some users have reported that switching between different accent colors and then reverting back to the original color scheme might temporarily fix the issue. However, this is not a guaranteed solution and may vary depending on the device and Android version.
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