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Google gives new life to old Pebble Watches with source code release

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Google

Even though Pebble watches are no longer made, many people still use them because they last much longer on a single charge than most new smartwatches. For years, the community has worked hard to keep these watches running, but they couldn’t do much without the watch’s original software details. Now, Google has decided to share that software, known as source code, with everyone.

Pebble started back in the early 2010s with watches that had screens that worked like e-paper books – they were easy to see even in bright sunlight and didn’t need much power. This meant Pebble watches could go for a week without charging. They were simple but useful, and people liked them for their straightforward design and battery life. The software was also open, so many developers made apps and custom watch faces for these watches.

However, Pebble didn’t become as popular as big names like Apple or Samsung, and by 2016, it had to sell its tech to Fitbit due to money issues. After that, Fitbit didn’t make new Pebble products, and the original software remained locked away. This made it tough for fans and developers who wanted to keep the watches going or even improve them with new software.

A group called Rebble, made up of Pebble fans, tried to bring the watches back to life but struggled without the original code. Then, Pebble’s old CEO, Eric Migicovsky, convinced Google, who now owned Pebble’s tech after buying Fitbit, to make the source code public. Google agreed, and put it on GitHub, a place where developers share and work on code.

The code release includes almost everything needed to make the Pebble OS work again, like notifications, music controls, and fitness tracking. But some parts, like how the watch connects to phones via Bluetooth, were left out because they’re not theirs to share. So, developers will still have some work to do.

This move by Google could mean new life for these old watches, perhaps even leading to new gadgets using the same old Pebble software. It’s exciting to see such a beloved piece of tech get a new chance, especially since even today, Pebble watches have some advantages over newer models.

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Google

Google Meet gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

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Google Meet

Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.

With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.

Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.

These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.

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Android

Easy ways to change Android Auto’s look with light and dark themes

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Android Auto

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.

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Google

Google Drive and Files by Google get fresh updates for easier use

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Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.

First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.

Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.

Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!

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