Android

Android 16 enhances notification privacy and introduces integrated screen dimming

Published

3 weeks ago

November 20, 2024

Android 16 is already making waves with its first developer preview (DP1), introducing two notable features that improve privacy and usability: automatic hiding of sensitive notifications on the lock screen and seamless integration of screen dimming functionality into the brightness bar. These updates aim to enhance user experience while prioritizing data security and convenience.

Protecting Sensitive Notifications on the Lock Screen

Lock screen notifications offer quick access to updates, but they can expose sensitive information to prying eyes, especially if your device is lost or stolen. Android 16 tackles this issue by automatically hiding the contents of sensitive notifications, particularly those containing one-time passwords (OTPs) and two-factor authentication (2FA) codes.

In Android 16 DP1, notifications deemed “sensitive” by the Android System Intelligence service are automatically redacted on the lock screen, regardless of your notification settings. While users can still control how notifications are displayed—choosing to hide titles, summaries, or all notification content—this feature ensures that sensitive information is protected by default.

This builds on privacy enhancements introduced in Android 15, where untrusted apps were blocked from accessing sensitive notifications, even with notification-reading permissions. Android 16 takes it a step further by ensuring these notifications are redacted on the lock screen itself, safeguarding your data from potential breaches.

Evolving Lock Screen Notification Settings

The updated lock screen notification settings in Android 16 provide flexible options:

Sensitive Notifications Setting: Allows you to hide titles and summaries for all notifications, while still displaying app icons.
Lock Screen Notification Control: Lets you choose to show all, hide specific categories like conversations, or hide all notifications entirely.

However, many users stick to default settings, which display full notification content. Android 16 ensures that even in this default mode, sensitive OTP notifications remain hidden, preventing accidental exposure.

Even Dimmer: A Smarter Screen Dimming Solution

Alongside privacy enhancements, Android 16 DP1 introduces “Even Dimmer,” a more integrated version of the existing Extra Dim mode. This feature simplifies the process of reducing screen brightness for comfortable viewing in low-light conditions.

Previously, the Extra Dim feature had to be activated manually via Settings > Accessibility or through a Quick Settings tile. While effective, it required extra steps and could easily be forgotten. With Even Dimmer, the functionality is embedded directly into the brightness bar. Sliding the bar to its lowest point now triggers an additional dimming layer, making it intuitive and accessible.

Why Even Dimmer is a Game-Changer

Seamless Integration: Even Dimmer removes the need for separate toggles, blending directly into everyday brightness adjustments.
Quick Deactivation: Simply increasing the brightness disables the feature, reducing the chance of accidentally leaving it on.
Eliminates Redundancy: The Extra Dim feature will be removed once Even Dimmer is fully rolled out, simplifying the interface further.

Availability and Device-Specific Rollout

Curiously, Even Dimmer is not universally available across all Pixel devices running Android 16 DP1. For now, it seems limited to the base Pixel 9, where the feature is enabled through a device-specific framework overlay. Other Pixel models, including the Pixel 6, 8, and 8a, lack this feature in the current preview.

Google may expand availability in future updates or adjust the rollout based on testing and feedback. However, this selective activation suggests it might be fine-tuning the feature for broader compatibility.

What to Expect from Android 16

While Android 16 is still in its early stages, the inclusion of these features reflects Google’s focus on balancing usability with security. The automatic hiding of sensitive notifications and the streamlined dimming functionality highlight the platform’s evolution toward a smarter, more user-centric design.

As Google refines these features in upcoming developer previews, Android users can look forward to a safer and more convenient experience in the final release. Whether it’s protecting your private data or making your screen easier on the eyes, Android 16 sets a new standard for mobile operating systems.

Source/Via

Android

Android 15 QPR1 Bug: Mixed-up icons

Published

6 days ago

December 7, 2024

Tom Carter

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.

Android

Google extends Android updates for Pixel 6, 7, and Fold, plus new fixes for Pixel 9 with Android 15 QPR1

Published

1 week ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Carter

Google has announced a significant extension to its Android OS update policy for the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold. These devices will now receive Android OS updates for five years, aligning them with Google’s commitment to long-term software support.

Extended Updates for Pixel 6, 7, and Fold

When Google introduced the Tensor chip in the Pixel 6 series, it expanded its software support to five years, including three years of OS updates and two additional years of security patches. However, the newer Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 series offer seven years of updates. This raised questions about whether the Pixel 6 and 7 generations would get extended support.

Google has now confirmed that these devices, including the Pixel Fold, will receive five full years of OS and security updates. This policy applies from the date the device first launched on the Google Store in the U.S.

Updated Support Policy Summary:

7 Years of Updates: Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and future models.
5 Years of Updates: Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel Fold.
3 Years of OS Updates, 5 Years of Security Updates: Pixel Tablet.

The change was hinted at earlier when Android 16 Developer Preview listed support for the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro.

Android 15 QPR1: New Fixes for Pixel Devices

Google has also started rolling out the first Quarterly Platform Release (QPR1) update for Android 15. This update brings fixes and improvements across various Pixel models. OTA and factory images are now available for supported devices, though on-device updates may take a bit longer to appear.

Fixes and Improvements

The Android 15 QPR1 update includes 16 fixes across multiple areas:

Audio: Stability improvements and fixes for USB audio-related reboots.
Bluetooth: Enhanced range for Pixel 9 devices.
Camera: Stability improvements in certain scenarios.
Display & Graphics: Fixes for green screen tint issues.
System: General stability and performance improvements.
Telephony: Improved network connection reliability.
User Interface: Fixes for lockscreen wallpaper issues, dark mode stability, swipe actions, and notification background colors.
Wi-Fi: Improved wireless performance and stability.

Device-Specific Builds

Global updates have been released for all supported Pixel devices, including localized builds for certain regions (e.g., Telstra in Australia and EMEA countries).

Final Thoughts

With extended update support and continuous fixes, Google is reinforcing its commitment to enhancing user experience across its Pixel lineup. These changes ensure that even older devices remain relevant and secure for longer periods, aligning with the company’s focus on sustainable and reliable technology.

Android

Google’s December Feature Drop: A roundup

Published

1 week ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Carter

Google has rolled out a new feature drop for Pixel devices, bringing several exciting updates to improve your user experience.

Pixel Screenshots: Smarter Than Ever

Pixel Screenshots is now more intelligent and helpful. It automatically categorizes screenshots into different groups like music, places, and products. You can easily search within these categories and take actions like adding events to your calendar or searching for products.

Gemini: A Versatile AI Assistant

Gemini is getting smarter with new features:

Spotify Integration: You can now use voice commands to search and play music on Spotify.
Chess Champ Gem: This new feature lets you play chess with Gemini, providing you with tips and strategies.

Google Contacts: A Fresh Look

The Google Contacts widget has a new design with circular avatars and more information displayed. It’s more visually appealing and easier to use.

These updates are designed to make your Pixel experience more efficient and enjoyable.