Android
New shortcut for Google Wallet coming to Android 16

If you keep many credit cards, transit passes, and other stuff in Google Wallet, you’ll love this new shortcut. It lets you add Google Wallet to your phone’s lock screen or Quick Settings for easy access. This means you can switch cards fast without having to unlock your phone or open the app. Especially for Pixel phone users, Google is planning a new shortcut in the Android 16 update that will let you open Google Wallet even quicker.
On most good Android phones, you can choose what happens when you double-tap the power button. But on Pixel phones, this action always opens the camera, which is great if you’re into taking photos but not so much if you aren’t. The good news is, that Google is changing this so you can choose to open Google Wallet instead with that double-tap.
I found some clues about this feature in the latest Android 15 beta update. There’s talk of a new settings page where you can decide if double-tapping the power button opens the camera or your wallet app. You’ll find this under Settings > System > Gestures, where there’s a new option for the double-tap power button.
When this setting is turned on, you can jump right into your wallet app by double-tapping the power button, no matter if your screen is on or off. And it’s not just for Google Wallet; it’ll open any wallet app you’ve set as your default, thanks to a change made in Android 15.
This feature isn’t ready yet in the current Android 15 beta, so we won’t see it in the next stable update. But we might see it in an early version of Android 16. I’ll keep an eye on Google’s updates to tell you when this handy shortcut becomes available.
Android
New Android Updates: Easier call controls and earthquake alerts on your wrist

Google is making Android and Wear OS even better with some helpful new features.
Easier call controls with Android 16
Android 16 is testing a new “call chip” that makes it easier to manage phone calls. When you’re on a call, a small button will appear at the top of your screen. This “call chip” lets you quickly get back to your call if you switch to another app. You can tap it to return to the call screen, mute yourself, or hang up, all without searching for the call app. This update should make handling calls much simpler, especially if you often multitask on your phone.
Earthquake alerts coming to wear os smartwatches
Google is also bringing earthquake alerts to Wear OS smartwatches. If there’s an earthquake nearby, your watch will vibrate and show a warning on the screen. This helps you get alerts even if your phone isn’t in your hand. The feature uses the same technology as Android’s earthquake alert system, which gathers data from phones to detect quakes quickly. Now, with alerts on your wrist, you can get to safety even faster.
What does this mean for users
These updates show that Google wants to make daily life safer and easier. With better call controls and quick earthquake warnings, Android and Wear OS devices are becoming even more helpful for everyone.
Android
Android 16 QPR1 beta 2 brings see-through notifications and a new Pixel Launcher search

Google has released the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update, and it comes with some interesting changes for Pixel phones. The update adds transparent notifications, making alerts look lighter and less blocky on your screen. Now, when you get a message or alert, the background of the notification is see-through, so you can still see a bit of your wallpaper or whatever is behind it. This small change makes your phone look cleaner and more modern.
Another big change is in the Pixel Launcher’s search feature. When you swipe up to search for apps or information, you’ll notice a new look. The search bar is now rounded and sits at the top of the screen, making it easier to spot. Suggestions for apps and actions are now shown in a simpler list, and the whole search area feels more organized. This redesign helps you find what you need faster and keeps things looking neat.
Both of these updates show that Google is working to make Android easier and nicer to use. The see-through notifications and improved search are small tweaks, but they make a big difference in how your phone feels day-to-day. If you have a Pixel phone and like trying new features, this beta update is worth checking out.
Android
New updates for Pixel Watch and Android 16 make things easier

Google has released some new updates for both the Pixel Watch and Android 16, making devices easier and more fun to use.
Pixel Watch gets June 2025 update
The Pixel Watch is getting its June 2025 update, which brings bug fixes and better security. This update helps keep your watch running smoothly and safely. If you have a Pixel Watch, you should see the update soon.
Android 16 introduces better sound settings
Android 16 Beta 2 now has a new sound menu. This menu puts all the sound and vibration settings in one place, so you can easily change things like ringtones, alarms, and notification sounds. It’s now much simpler to control how your phone sounds.
First look at Android 16 desktop mode
Android 16 is also working on a desktop mode. This feature lets you use your phone more like a computer when you connect it to a bigger screen. You can move apps around, open more than one window, and work more efficiently.
live effects for wallpapers
Another new feature in Android 16 is the “Live Effects” section in the wallpaper picker. Now, you can add cool effects to your wallpapers, making your home screen look more lively and personal.
New wi-fi icons
Android 16 is also updating the Wi-Fi icons. The new icons are easier to understand, so you can quickly see how strong your connection is.
These updates show that Google is working hard to make devices simpler and more enjoyable for everyone to use.
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