Potential Ban on Android Brands Over Patent Dispute

A legal dispute between Samsung Display and BOE, a Chinese display manufacturer, could impact several Android smartphone brands in the US. The conflict revolves around BOE allegedly infringing on Samsung Display’s patents. The US International Trade Commission (ITC) has made an initial ruling, indicating that BOE violated specific Samsung Display patents. However, as of now, no ban has been enforced.

What’s at Stake? Samsung Display has requested the ITC to ban the import and sale of devices using BOE panels that violate its patents. If granted, this ban could significantly affect the US smartphone market. While premium brands like Samsung, Apple (for its iPhone), and Google typically rely on Samsung Display, many mid-range Android phones, such as those from OnePlus and Motorola, use BOE panels due to their lower costs.

Notably, OnePlus sources displays from BOE for several devices, including its flagship models like the upcoming OnePlus 13. Motorola has also utilized BOE displays in versions of its foldable Razr smartphones. Additionally, Lenovo has employed BOE panels in its foldable ThinkPad laptops.

Even Apple has explored using BOE as a display supplier for future iPhones. Moreover, several US computer brands, including HP and Asus, have partnered with BOE for their display needs.

Likelihood of a Ban Currently, the ITC has not approved the ban, stating there is no immediate impact on the US industry from BOE’s alleged patent infringement. The final decision is expected in March 2025. If the ban is enforced, it could lead to disruptions in the supply chain and impact several Android manufacturers that rely on BOE displays.

Google Pixel Introduces New Digital Wellbeing Feature: Screen Time Reminders

In an effort to enhance user experience, Google has rolled out a new feature called “Screen time reminders” as part of its Digital Wellbeing suite. This feature is now available on Google Pixel devices and various other Android phones, aiming to help users reduce excessive screen time and avoid “doomscrolling.”

How It Works The “Screen time reminders” feature sends users a notification when they spend a significant amount of time on a specific app. For instance, after spending around 15-25 minutes on popular apps like Instagram, a pop-up will appear at the top of the screen, suggesting that it might be time to take a break. This reminder is “occasional,” meaning it does not show up constantly but only after extended usage periods.

By default, the reminders are turned off, and users can enable them through the Digital Wellbeing settings on their devices. Once activated, the feature applies to all apps, although users can choose to disable reminders for specific apps, such as those used for video streaming or gaming, where prolonged usage is common.

Availability This new addition is part of Google’s ongoing effort to promote healthier screen habits. The feature is included on Pixel phones and several other Android devices like those from OnePlus, Oppo, and Nothing. However, Samsung devices currently have their own version of Digital Wellbeing tools, which do not yet include this specific reminder feature.

Google VPN Support Expands to Pixel Tablet in Android 15 QPR2

Google’s VPN service, initially exclusive to Pixel 7 and later models, is now available for the Pixel Tablet with the release of Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1. This update comes after user feedback and addresses previous limitations where the Pixel Tablet was excluded from the VPN by Google rollout.

What is VPN by Google? VPN by Google provides a secure browsing experience by masking users’ IP addresses and encrypting internet traffic. It is built into the Pixel’s operating system, unlike previous versions tied to the Google One app, which required a persistent notification. The VPN service is available at no extra cost to users of eligible Pixel devices, offering a straightforward way to access geo-restricted content without compromising speed or privacy.

New Support for Pixel Tablet Despite being part of the same generation as the Pixel 7 series, the Pixel Tablet was initially left out of the VPN by Google rollout. However, with the latest Android update, this has changed. Users have confirmed that the VPN feature is now pre-installed on the Pixel Tablet, although Google’s official support page has yet to be updated to reflect this change. This update signals Google’s commitment to enhancing its product offerings across its entire Pixel lineup.

Expected Stable Release The stable release of Android 15 QPR2, including the updated VPN support, is anticipated in March 2025. The inclusion of the Pixel Tablet in this rollout appears intentional, as indicated by a specific build flag in the software, though official confirmation from Google is still pending.

Conclusion

The ongoing patent dispute between Samsung Display and BOE could lead to significant changes in the availability of Android devices in the US market. While the potential ban remains uncertain, it could disrupt the supply chain for several brands using BOE displays. On the software side, Google continues to enhance its Pixel devices and other Android phones with features like “Screen time reminders,” promoting healthier digital habits, and expanding VPN support to provide better privacy options. These updates reflect the ongoing evolution of Android devices, focusing on user experience and industry competitiveness as we approach 2025.