Android
Android 16 makes hearing aids better in noisy places
Google is always trying to make Android easier to use for everyone. At their recent Galaxy event, they announced a new feature for hearing aids called LE Audio. This feature wasn’t explained in detail at first, but with the launch of the first Android 16 beta, we got more info on how it helps hearing aids.
LE Audio is the newest way to send sound over Bluetooth. It’s better than the old ways because it uses less battery, works better, and can connect with more devices. One cool thing it does is let hearing aids broadcast sound, like sharing music with others.
With the new Android 16 Beta 1, Google shared some updates about hearing aids. Now, users can control how much background noise they hear through their hearing aids. This means you can make sounds around you louder or quieter, which is useful in noisy or quiet places.
There’s a new control called “surroundings” that lets you adjust the noise level for each earbud or both together. You can even quickly turn the surrounding sounds on or off. This feature seems to work a bit like the controls on the Pixel Buds Pro 2, but those aren’t confirmed to work as hearing aids yet.
Another big update is using your phone’s microphone instead of your hearing aid’s during calls. This is handy if the environment is too noisy or if your hearing aid’s battery is running low. It could save battery life by not always using the hearing aid’s mic. There’s a new “switch” button that pops up during calls to let you change which microphone you’re using.
These changes in Android 16 are more than what the law says they need to do. Last year, the FCC said phones must work with hearing aids, and Google’s doing that with LE Audio. These new features are already in the Android 16 Beta 1, but I can’t try them out myself since I don’t have LE Audio hearing aids. If you do, and you’re using this beta on a Pixel phone, let us know if you notice these improvements!
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.
-
Apps2 years agoGboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
Apps2 years agoGoogle Contacts app testing new Besties Widget
-
AI2 years agoGoogle Pixel 9 Pro may come with a complimentary one-year Gemini Advanced subscription
-
Apps2 years agoGoogle working on a new video editing feature for its Photo app
-
Apps2 years agoGoogle Maps lets you report traffic jams and accidents on Apple CarPlay, but not on Android Auto
-
Apps2 years agoGoogle Messages app will transform MMS chats into RCS
-
News2 years agoSamsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
News2 years agoGoogle Pixel Watch 2 Vs OnePlus Watch 2: The new champion?