Android
Google unveils “Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking” and updates Gemini app and Android Auto

Google has introduced “Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking,” an experimental AI model designed to “think out loud” while solving complex problems. Built on the speed of Gemini 2.0 Flash, this model displays its reasoning process in real-time before providing an answer, improving performance in areas like physics and probability. It’s currently available in Google AI Studio and Vertex AI. This new model has quickly risen to the top of the Chatbot Arena LLM Leaderboard.
The Gemini app on Android is also receiving an update, widely rolling out access to the 2.0 Flash Experimental model for both free and paid users. This model is faster and more powerful than previous versions, offering a more helpful assistant experience. Users can select 1.5 Pro, 1.5 Flash, and 2.0 Flash Experimental within the app. While file uploads are not yet supported, 2.0 Flash is expected to become generally available for developers in January, with more model sizes coming. This update follows a similar update for the Gemini app on iPhone.
Android Auto is also getting a visual refresh with the 13.4 update. Google adds Material You accent colors to match the user’s phone wallpaper. This means system elements like buttons, toggles, and menus will now feature colors that adapt to the phone’s theme. While this feature is still refined and may exhibit some inconsistencies, it brings a more personalized and cohesive look to the Android Auto interface. This change is visible in areas like the Settings menu and notification center, but only if the setting for matching the phone’s wallpaper is enabled.
Android
Google apps and Android Auto get fresh looks and smart updates

Google is bringing a cleaner and more modern design to many of its apps with the latest Material You changes. Apps like Google Calendar, Contacts, and others now have rounded corners, better spacing, and improved colors. These small updates make the apps look more polished and easier to use, especially on tablets and foldable phones. Google is quietly adding these updates through server-side changes, so users don’t need to download anything extra.
At the same time, Android Auto is also getting a helpful new feature. Google is testing built-in climate controls that let you adjust your car’s temperature and fan settings directly from the Android Auto screen. A demo shown by Google includes a new “Climate” button on the screen, which opens controls like temperature, fan speed, and even seat heaters.
This update is meant to reduce distractions while driving, as drivers won’t need to switch between different screens or reach for physical buttons. Google says the feature will work on cars that already support digital climate control systems.
Together, these changes show how Google is making its software not just prettier, but smarter and more user-friendly. Whether you’re checking your calendar or driving to work, these improvements are designed to make daily tasks easier and safer.
Android
Google Pixel Weather app now shows pollen info in the US

Google is adding a new feature to its Pixel Weather app. Now, users in the United States can see pollen levels in their area. This update is especially helpful for people who have allergies and need to know when pollen is high.
In the Weather app, there’s a new section under the daily forecast that shows pollen conditions. It uses simple labels like “low,” “moderate,” and “high” so it’s easy to understand. This new feature pulls information from the same source that Google Search uses for pollen updates.
However, the new pollen section in the Pixel Weather app is only available in the US for now. If you’re outside the US, you won’t see the pollen data yet. Also, not every user may get it immediately, as Google is still rolling out the update.
To use the feature, you need to have the latest version of the Pixel Weather app, which comes built into Pixel devices. Google may expand this feature to more countries in the future, but there’s no official date yet.
Overall, this small update can make a big difference for users who want quick and easy access to local pollen conditions without searching separately.
Android
Google updates Gboard emoji kitchen and Android Auto with new features

Google is bringing some fresh updates to make Gboard and Android Auto even better.
Starting with Gboard, the Emoji Kitchen now has a new “Browse” section. This makes it easier for users to find different emoji sticker combos. You can tap on any emoji and instantly see all the creative mixes available. Plus, there’s a search bar to help you look for specific stickers. This new feature is rolling out first to Pixel devices, with other Android phones expected to get it in the coming months.
On the other hand, Android Auto is now getting the 14.3 beta update. Although there are no big changes yet, this version mainly focuses on fixing bugs and improving performance. Testers have noticed slight speed improvements, but no new features have been spotted so far. Google might be preparing for bigger changes in future updates.
Both these updates show that Google is working hard to make its apps smoother and easier to use. Gboard’s new browsing tool will make messaging more fun, while Android Auto’s small fixes are important for a better driving experience.
If you have a Pixel phone or are part of the Android Auto beta program, you might already see these updates. Otherwise, they should be available to more users soon.
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