Android
Chromecast remote’s volume buttons get it right, while Google TV streamer feels like a downgrade, plus Quick Share on Android adds transfer progress

Google’s new Google TV Streamer has some noticeable improvements, but its remote design—especially the placement of the volume buttons—feels like a step back. Many users, myself included, feel that the original Chromecast remote handled volume control more effectively.
The first Chromecast with Google TV introduced a remote that was simple yet functional. It featured eight buttons, a navigation pad on the front, and two volume buttons conveniently placed on the side. This side-button design, although polarizing, received praise from users who liked its ergonomic feel and ease of use. Others, however, thought volume buttons should be more visible on the top of the remote.
After trying out the Google TV Streamer in my main entertainment spaces, I realized just how functional the side volume buttons were on the Chromecast remote. The Chromecast’s remote, with its rounded base, allowed for a steady grip when adjusting volume, even if the remote wasn’t lifted entirely off the surface. On the Google TV Streamer’s remote, however, the volume buttons have been moved to the top, making it less stable. When adjusting the volume, this design makes the remote wobble, requiring you to pick it up fully each time. Though the new remote includes some helpful upgrades like a dedicated shortcut button, this design change detracts from its overall usability.
Overall, I feel Google made the wrong call by changing the volume button placement. I’d love to know if others prefer the new design or miss the side-mounted volume controls from the original Chromecast remote.
In other news, Android’s file-sharing feature, Quick Share (previously known as “Nearby Share”), now provides a more transparent view of transfer progress. Previously, the sender could see the exact percentage of file transfer completion, but the receiver only had a progress ring. Now, Quick Share shows the transfer percentage directly on the recipient’s device screen, offering clearer feedback on how much longer the transfer might take. This update is now widely available across various devices, including Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy models.
While small files may transfer too quickly for you to notice the percentage, it’s especially useful for larger files, like videos, where knowing the progress can save you time and provide better insight. This update might seem minor, but it’s a helpful addition that makes Android’s sharing experience just a bit more user-friendly.
Android
Android Auto’s new update gets Ready for Gemini

Google recently rolled out Android Auto version 14.0, and it’s paving the way for something big—Gemini integration. This update doesn’t bring flashy new features for users to play with right away, but it’s doing important behind-the-scenes work.
The main focus? Getting the app ready to team up with Google’s Gemini AI system. According to experts who peeked into the update’s code, Android Auto is setting up to use Gemini’s smarts down the road. This could mean better voice commands, sharper answers, or even a more helpful driving buddy.
For now, though, things look the same when you connect your phone to your car. The changes are mostly hidden, preparing for a future where Gemini takes the wheel—figuratively, of course!
This update also keeps Android Auto running smoothly with the latest Android phones. It fixes small bugs and makes sure everything works like it should.
While there’s no official word yet on when Gemini will fully join the party, this step shows Google’s big plans for smarter driving tech. If you’ve got Android Auto, your phone might already have this update—or it’ll show up soon through the Google Play Store. It’s a quiet one, but it’s laying the groundwork for exciting stuff ahead. So, next time you plug in, know your car’s system is getting a little brainier, even if it’s not showing off just yet!
Android
How to view Android files on Linux and unlock your Pixel faster

Want to check your Android phone’s files using a Linux computer? It’s simple! First, connect your phone to your Linux system with a USB cable. Open the terminal and install a tool like “mtp-tools” to help your computer talk to your phone.
Type a few easy commands, and you’ll see all your files—like photos, music, or documents—right on your screen. It’s a quick way to grab stuff without digging through your phone. Now, if you’ve got a Google Pixel, here’s a cool trick to unlock it faster.
Normally, you wake the screen before using the fingerprint scanner. But with a small tweak, you can skip that step! Go to your phone’s settings, find the display options, and turn on a feature that lets the fingerprint sensor work even when the screen is off.
Once it’s set, just tap the sensor, and your Pixel unlocks instantly—super handy for quick access! Both tips make using your Android smoother. Whether it’s file exploring on Linux or speeding up your Pixel, these tricks save time and effort. Try them out!
Android
New Android 16 Beta and Wear OS 5.1 updates bring changes

The Android 16 beta is here, and it’s letting more Pixel phones use a cool feature: unlocking with the fingerprint sensor even when the screen is off. This makes getting into your phone faster and easier, especially for people with newer Pixel models.
It’s a small but handy upgrade that saves time and effort. Meanwhile, the Wear OS 5.1 update for smartwatches is causing some trouble. Users are noticing that notifications are showing up late, and there are other annoying bugs too.
Instead of making things better, this update has left some people frustrated with their watches not working as smoothly as before. Both updates show how tech companies are trying to improve our gadgets, but the results aren’t always perfect.
The Android 16 beta brings a nice perk for Pixel owners, while Wear OS 5.1 needs some fixing to get back on track. For now, phone users might be happier than smartwatch fans as these changes roll out. Keep an eye out for more updates to smooth things over!
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