Android
New security feature for Pixel and Samsung phones
Google has started to roll out a new security feature called “Identity Check” for Pixel phones. This feature will soon be available for Samsung phones with One UI 7 as well.
With Identity Check turned on, your phone will ask you to use your fingerprint or face to confirm it’s you before you can do certain important things when you’re not in a safe place like home or work. Here’s what it will do:
- Manage saved passwords and keys for logging in.
- Use saved passwords in apps, except for Chrome.
- Change your phone’s lock settings like PIN, pattern, or password.
- Update your biometric settings, such as fingerprint or face recognition.
- Reset your phone to factory settings.
- Disable the “Find My Device” feature.
- Turn off other security features that protect against theft.
- See where your phone considers “safe” places.
- Disable Identity Check itself.
- Set up a new phone with your current one.
- Add or remove Google accounts.
- Access special developer settings.
This feature makes it much harder for someone else to use your phone or access your accounts if they get hold of it. It also adds extra safety for Samsung accounts on phones that can use One UI 7.
To use this feature, you’ll need to set trusted places in your phone’s settings and ensure your phone supports high-level biometric security.
For Pixel phones, you can find and turn on Identity Check by going to the Settings app, then to Security & Privacy, then Device Unlock, followed by Theft Protection, and finally selecting Identity Check. Another way is through Settings, then Google, then All Services, and under Theft Protection.
This follows last year’s rollout of Theft Detection Lock, which is now on all Android phones from version 10 and up worldwide.
Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google has just rolled out some exciting updates across its services and apps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new and what it means for you.
Gemini 2.5 Pro is here
Google has launched Gemini 2.5 Pro, the latest version of its AI model. This upgrade brings smarter and faster responses, making it easier for users to get helpful answers. Gemini 2.5 Pro is now available in Google’s AI Studio and Vertex AI, so developers can build even better tools and apps using this technology.
Android 16 brings more customization
Android 16 is adding new ways to personalize your phone. One of the standout features is the ability to hide the clock on your lock screen, giving you a cleaner look if you want it. This is part of Google’s push to let users make their phones feel more unique. There’s also a new animation for the power button, making the experience smoother and more modern when you turn your phone on or off.
Google Messages removes the unsubscribe button
If you use Google Messages, you might notice that the “Unsubscribe” button is gone from some business messages. Google has removed this feature, so users now have to find other ways to stop unwanted texts. This change might make it a bit harder to manage spam, but Google hasn’t said why the option was removed.
What does this mean for you
These updates show that Google is focused on making its products smarter and more personal. Whether you’re using AI tools, customizing your phone, or managing your messages, you’ll see some changes that aim to improve your experience.
Google Keep is getting a fresh look with the new Material You design, making it more colorful and easier to use on Wear OS smartwatches. The update brings bigger buttons and clearer text, so you can quickly jot down notes or check your lists right from your wrist. This makes Google Keep more handy when you’re on the go and don’t want to pull out your phone.
On another front, Android Automotive is improving how apps show information while you drive. Instead of opening full apps, you’ll see simple cards on your car’s screen that give you important details at a glance.
These cards help keep your focus on the road by showing things like music controls, navigation updates, or reminders without distractions. This new card system is designed to work smoothly with apps like media players and navigation tools, making your driving experience safer and more convenient.
Together, these updates show Google’s effort to make its apps smarter and easier to use in everyday life, whether you’re walking around with your smartwatch or driving your car. The focus is on clear, simple designs that help you get things done quickly without hassle.
In short, Google Keep’s new look on Wear OS and the smart cards in Android Automotive are small but useful changes that make tech fit better into your daily routine.
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