Android
Google enhances Android data transfer and app login features: What to Expect in 2025
Google is making it easier to set up Android devices with new features aimed at improving data transfers and app logins. These advancements, introduced with the Pixel 9 and expanding across more Android devices in 2025, aim to simplify the user experience when switching devices or setting up a new phone.
Post-Setup Data Transfer: Explore First, Transfer Later
With the Pixel 9 running Android 14, Google introduced a flexible data transfer option. Users can now copy data from another device even after completing the initial setup. This feature, accessible through the “Back up or copy data” page in system settings, encourages users to explore their new device before transferring data.
Starting in 2025, this post-setup transfer capability will be available on more Android phones. This feature allows users to complete basic setup quickly and transfer data later when it’s convenient. Data transfers can be initiated via system settings or through the updated Android Switch app, which is available on both Android and iOS platforms.
Faster and Smarter Android Switch Experience
Google has been improving the Android Switch process for the past two years, focusing on speed and convenience. Key highlights include:
- 40% Faster Transfers: Transferring data from iOS to Android using a cable is now significantly quicker compared to 2023.
- Comprehensive Data Support: The transfer process ensures that critical data like chats, calendars, contacts, Wi-Fi configurations, screen lock settings, and Google accounts are seamlessly moved to the new device.
- RCS Compatibility: Rich Communication Services (RCS) improve messaging capabilities during the transition. Users can enjoy high-resolution media sharing, emoji reactions, and group chat management regardless of whether friends use Android or iOS.
However, full RCS data transfers are currently exclusive to Pixel 9 and are not yet available for other Android devices.
Credential Manager: Stay Logged In Effortlessly
Google is also addressing the hassle of logging back into apps after setting up a new device. The Credential Manager API, a tool responsible for managing sign-ins and passkeys, now includes a feature called Restore Credentials.
How Restore Credentials Works:
- Backup Creation: When users log into an app, a restore key is created and stored securely. This key is encrypted and saved either locally or in cloud backups, depending on the user’s preferences.
- Seamless Transfer: During device setup, restore keys are transferred along with app data—either via local device-to-device transfer or through cloud backup.
- Automatic Login: Once the app is launched on the new device, it retrieves the restore key to sign the user back in automatically.
This process eliminates the need for manual logins and even allows users to receive notifications and access app content without opening the app first.
Developer Integration:
- No additional developer work is needed for transferring restore keys, as the Android backup and restore mechanism handles this automatically.
- Developers can further enhance the experience by implementing a “backup agent,” enabling silent logins so users remain signed in without launching the app.
Availability and Future Outlook
The Restore Credentials API is currently in developer preview and supports Android 9 and later versions. With these features expanding across Android devices in 2025, Google is set to make device setup and data transfer smoother than ever.
By focusing on user-friendly innovations like post-setup data copying and automatic app logins, Google is redefining how Android users transition to new devices while ensuring data security and convenience.
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
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.
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.
-
Apps10 months agoGboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
News10 months agoSamsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
News9 months ago
Breaking: Samsung Galaxy S22 may get Galaxy AI features
-
News9 months agoSamsung Galaxy S23 Ultra with One UI 6.1 and all S24 AI features revealed
-
News10 months ago
One UI 6.1 Auracast (Bluetooth LE Audio) feature coming to many Samsung phones
-
News10 months agoSatellite SOS feature coming to Google Pixel phones, evidence leaked
-
Apps7 months agoGoogle’s fancy new Weather app is finally available for more Android phones
-
News10 months agoGoogle Pixel evolves as Europe’s third best selling flagship