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Articles by Abner Li
Google Messages homepage redesign: Pinned chat avatars, bottom search, corner Gemini
In addition to the new app icon, Google Messages for Android is testing a big homepage redesign that has three core components. Update 11/7: Instead of pinned chats just appearing at the top of the list, Google Messages is trying a redesign that significantly elevates them above all conversations. Current This redesign takes advantage of the existing background layer that’s currently just home to the logo/wordmark, search, and account menu.
Google Health 5.12 rolling out with manual blood pressure & pregnancy logging, more
Following a sizable release last month, Google Health is rolling out another big update with version 5.12. Google Health 5.12 on Android and iOS will let you “log your blood pressure readings manually or sync your readings from another app via Apple Health or Health Connect.” To manually log a new reading, tap on the +Log sign in the Today tab and select Blood pressure. Alternatively, you can log your blood pressure by chatting with your Google Health Coach (for Premium subscribers).
Google Health 5.12 rolling out with manual blood pressure & pregnancy logging, more
Following a sizable release last month, Google Health is rolling out another big update with version 5.12. Google Health 5.12 on Android and iOS will let you “log your blood pressure readings manually or sync your readings from another app via Apple Health or Health Connect.” To manually log a new reading, tap on the +Log sign in the Today tab and select Blood pressure. Alternatively, you can log your blood pressure by chatting with your Google Health Coach (for Premium subscribers).
Big Google Antigravity update brings Remote Agents, Voice Mode, and redesign
Google is rolling out a big update to Antigravity this week that features a new design, Voice Mode, and Remote Agents. Version 2.29 of Google’s agentic development platform for Mac, Windows, and Linux starts with a redesigned conversation page that moves the prompt box to the bottom of the screen, while there’s now a greeting at the top, like the Gemini app. The app also now has a default Google Sans font and Onyx theme.
Big Google Antigravity update brings Remote Agents, Voice Mode, and redesign
Google is rolling out a big update to Antigravity this week that features a new design, Voice Mode, and Remote Agents. Version 2.29 of Google’s agentic development platform for Mac, Windows, and Linux starts with a redesigned conversation page that moves the prompt box to the bottom of the screen, while there’s now a greeting at the top, like the Gemini app. The app also now has a default Google Sans font and Onyx theme.
Big Googlebook November update rolling out with 31 fixes, improvements Original
Just over a month after the launch, Google is rolling out the “Googlebook November update” with “many bug fixes, stability improvements and firmware updates.” There are updates across seven areas. Google first lists changes that benefit all users before detailing device-specific improvements.
Google Find Hub rolls out ‘Notify when left behind’ tracker alerts on Android
As previewed in October, Google has added “Notify when left behind” alerts for Find Hub tags and trackers on Android. To enable, open the Find Hub app and choose a tag. In the top-right corner of the bottom sheet, select the settings gear icon. There is a new “Notify when left behind” section to “Receive a notification when this tag is separated from your phone.” By default, there’s an exception for the Home address you’ve stored in your Google Account (Maps).
Google Find Hub rolls out ‘Notify when left behind’ tracker alerts on Android
As previewed in October, Google has added “Notify when left behind” alerts for Find Hub tags and trackers on Android. To enable, open the Find Hub app and choose a tag. In the top-right corner of the bottom sheet, select the settings gear icon. There is a new “Notify when left behind” section to “Receive a notification when this tag is separated from your phone.” By default, there’s an exception for the Home address you’ve stored in your Google Account (Maps).
Phone by Google 246 beta brings gradient icon redesign on Android
Following the Messages update earlier this week, Phone by Google has received its redesigned gradient icon in the beta channel. Version 246 of Phone by Google — as the app is still officially called to presumably avoid the Pixel overlap that comes with “Google Phone” — is rolling out today to the beta channel. Compared to the previous iteration, the handset in the new icon is a bit larger. Otherwise, the general shape remains the same and shouldn’t cause any confusion. Old vs.
Phone by Google 246 beta brings gradient icon redesign on Android
Following the Messages update earlier this week, Phone by Google has received its redesigned gradient icon in the beta channel. Version 246 of Phone by Google — as the app is still officially called to presumably avoid the Pixel overlap that comes with “Google Phone” — is rolling out today to the beta channel. Compared to the previous iteration, the handset in the new icon is a bit larger. Otherwise, the general shape remains the same and shouldn’t cause any confusion. Old vs.
First Android XR ‘Intelligent Eyewear’ glasses go on pre-order next week
Warby Parker announced today that the first Android XR audio glasses will be available for pre-order on November 12.
First Android XR ‘Intelligent Eyewear’ glasses go on pre-order next week
Warby Parker announced today that the first Android XR audio glasses will be available for pre-order on November 12.
Henry Cavill builds 16-bit ‘Mustache Protocol’ game on Googlebook for a good cause [Video]
As teased before the launch, Henry Cavill has built a video game on Googlebook, and it’s called Mustache Protocol.
Henry Cavill builds 16-bit ‘Mustache Protocol’ game on Googlebook for a good cause [Video]
As teased before the launch, Henry Cavill has built a video game on Googlebook, and it’s called Mustache Protocol.
Google Messages redesigning pinned chats and moving search Original
In addition to the new app icon, Google Messages is testing a redesign of pinned chats and search on the homepage. Instead of pinned chats just appearing at the top of the list, Google Messages is trying a redesign that significantly elevates them above all conversations. Current This redesign takes advantage of the existing background layer that’s currently just home to the logo/wordmark, search, and account menu.
Google Home Speaker gets first discount since June launch Original
In addition to the Pixel deals that started last week, Google is discounting the Home Speaker for the first time. The Google Home Speaker finally launched on June 27. For the past four months, the price has remained at $99.99. The Google Store is running a $20 discount that brings the Gemini device down to $79.99. This sale kicked off today and ends on December 2, which is two days after Cyber Monday. This deal is also available at Best Buy and other retailers.
What’s new in Android Nov. 2026 Google System Updates: Android photo backup with Quick Share for Windows Original
The monthly “Google System Release Notes” primarily detail what’s new in Play services, Play Store, and Play system update across Android phones/tablets, Wear OS, Google/Android TV, Auto, and PC. Some features apply to end users, while others are aimed at developers.
Google will let Android & iOS apps directly integrate Quick Share next year Original
At Android Dev Summit 2026, Google announced a Quick Share SDK that will let Android and iOS apps directly integrate the peer-to-peer file sharing capability. The Quick Share SDK is coming in the first half of 2027. Developers will be able to integrate file share functionality directly into their apps instead of requiring users to first open the system Share sheet and launch the fullscreen Quick Share experience.
Google rolling out gradient icon redesigns for Contacts, Messages, and Phone Original
Following the Workspace and Pixel app redesigns earlier this year, Google is overhauling the Contacts, Messages, and Phone icons.
Wear OS adding ‘system status bar’ to apps, Wear OS 7.1 coming Original
Earlier this week, Google revealed that a “later platform release of Wear OS” is adding a “system status bar.” On October 26, Google released a Wear OS canary emulator in Android Studio to let developers “test upcoming platform features and user interface changes before they become available in a consumer platform release on physical devices.” The upcoming feature in question is a “persistent system status bar over Wear OS app windows at the top position of the circular display.” It will...
Google says Googlebook ‘detachables’ are coming soon Original
At the Android Dev Summit 2026 earlier this week, Google said that Googlebook detachables will be the next form factor after clamshells and convertibles. This reveal at the Wednesday developer keynote isn’t particularly surprising given leaks earlier this year.
The 12th Google Store is opening on November 6 Original
Following San Diego and Tokyo in 2026, the next Google Store is opening in Houston on November 6. This is the company’s 11th retail location in the US and 12th globally. Google Store Houston Galleria opens on Friday, November 6: 5085 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056.
Apple Music 7.0 for Android rolls out with Liquid Glass redesign Original
Following a month of beta testing, Apple Music 7.0 is rolling out with a Liquid Glass redesign for Android, as well as the new icon for the streaming service. This update starts with a tweaked music note icon in black or white, depending on your device theme, replacing the previous red background. Similarly, the accent color throughout Apple Music is now blue. Old vs. new The app now has a floating bottom bar that lets you see content above, below, and to the sides.
Deep Google Store discounts on Pixel 11, Pixel Watch 5 start early Original
Like other retailers, the US Google Store is already starting Black Friday-level discounts on the Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch 5 at the end of October. Google is now taking $200 off the Pixel 11, which is double the last sale in early October. The Pixel 11 Pro is $300 off (versus $200), while it’s $350 off (compared to $250) for the Pixel 11 Pro XL. Finally, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold sees only a $250 discount. There are matching discounts at Amazon and Best Buy today.
Latest Gemini design comes to all Android devices, app upgrades file generation Original
A pair of Gemini app updates today brings the latest design to all Android devices, while file generation sees a big upgrade. The latest Gemini overlay design applies a heavy blur effect over the bar. It’s hard to make out the boundaries of the pill, while there are way more tiny specks and swirls of color. Once the animations complete, you can see how the pill-shaped bar is translucent at the perimeter instead of a solid shape. Old vs.
Android 17 QPR3 Beta 3 rolling out with 26 Pixel fixes
Following last week’s release, Google is rolling out Android 17 QPR3 Beta 3 to Pixel devices today. It’s another big bug fixer. Beta 3 addresses the following issues: Images render with incorrect transparency when using the Multiply blend mode. (Issue #73186237) Recents overview flickers when performing a home gesture immediately after quick-switching apps. (Issue #237526296, Issue #341680318) Inner display remains black when unfolding the device.
Google Home and Nest speakers getting seven updates, including for Bluetooth & audio quality
In addition to Chromecast with Google TV and Nest Wifi Pro updates, Google detailed what new firmware for Nest and Home speakers brings. The Google Home, Google Home Mini, and Nest Audio benefit from “enhanced streaming performance” that should result in “smoother audio playback.” There’s also “faster and more reliable local device discovery” in the Google Home app for the Google Home Speaker, Nest Audio, and Nest Mini.
Google Home and Nest speakers getting seven updates, including for Bluetooth & audio quality
In addition to Chromecast with Google TV and Nest Wifi Pro updates, Google detailed what new firmware for Nest and Home speakers brings. The Google Home, Google Home Mini, and Nest Audio benefit from “enhanced streaming performance” that should result in “smoother audio playback.” There’s also “faster and more reliable local device discovery” in the Google Home app for the Google Home Speaker, Nest Audio, and Nest Mini.
Google details new firmware for Chromecast with Google TV and Nest Wifi Pro Original
Today’s (October 29, 2026) Google Home release notes detail what’s new in firmware updates for the Chromecast with Google TV and Nest Wifi Pro. The first update of 2026 for the Chromecast with Google TV (4K) rolled out earlier this month.
Alphabet reports Q3 2026 revenue of $127.6 billion
Alphabet today announced Q3 2026 earnings with $127.6 billion in revenue. These numbers range from July to September. Revenue is up 25% from $102.3 billion in Q3 2025, with operating income at $40.58 billion and net income of $26.17 billion for this quarter (versus $34.9 billion a year ago). For comparison, Alphabet reported $119.8 billion in revenue and $112.1 billion in net income last quarter. We had a strong quarter and are now on a half-trillion dollar revenue run rate.
Google announces Gemini 4 Carbon with ‘significant gains across coding and agentic tasks’ Original
Following the launch of Argon two weeks ago, Google today announced Gemini 4 Carbon as its next frontier model. There are “significant gains” in coding, agentic tasks, cybersecurity defense (finding vulnerabilities).
Google adding more Connected Apps to Gemini & Search with new dev platform Original
Google today announced the Connected Apps Platform as a “unified way for more app developers to bring their capabilities directly into Gemini and Search.” Existing third-party Connected Apps let you access Adobe, Dropbox, Instacart, OpenTable, Ticketmaster, and other services — now numbering over 50 — from the Gemini app. Google also announced a new Calm integration that will be available in the coming weeks.
Google Chrome rolling out ‘Suggested by Gemini’ autofill
As previewed in May, Google Chrome can now use Gemini and Personal Intelligence to autofill much more information. This feature uses Gemini with Personal Intelligence to go beyond autofilling names, addresses, and credit card numbers. Chrome autofill can now “automatically suggest information pulled directly from Gmail as you fill out online forms.” This might include order numbers, tracking information, and flight bookings.
Google Chrome rolling out ‘Suggested by Gemini’ autofill
As previewed in May, Google Chrome can now use Gemini and Personal Intelligence to autofill much more information. This feature uses Gemini with Personal Intelligence to go beyond autofilling names, addresses, and credit card numbers. Chrome autofill can now “automatically suggest information pulled directly from Gmail as you fill out online forms.” This might include order numbers, tracking information, and flight bookings.
Gemini Notebook for Android, iOS adds built-in audio recorder Original
After introducing Connected App integration last week, Gemini Notebook has rolled out an audio recorder on Android and iOS. Between the camera and “Create New” floating action button at the bottom, you’ll see a new microphone icon. This lets you “capture lectures and record your thoughts on the go,” with the audio file creating a new notebook if you launch the recorder from the homepage.
Google Nest Wifi router and point get October 2026 update
The second update this year for the Nest Wifi router and point rolled out last week with two improvements. Following the April update, the Nest Wifi router is now on software version 14150.883.1264, while the Nest Wifi point is running 1.56.539812. The changelog dated October 20, 2026 lists two updates: Enhanced mesh network resilience and DNS fallback improvements Other stability and security vulnerability fixes Google Wifi and Nest Wifi devices update automatically overnight.
Google Photos rolls out customizable redesign of your ‘Collections’ tab
Following the floating navigation bar in July, Google Photos for Android is rolling out a big redesign that lets you customize the Collections tab. The previous design started with a 2×2 grid. Favorites and Trash were at the top, while the other two shortcuts changed based on usage. Then there were large cards for Albums, On this device, People & pets, Wardrobe, Documents, Places, Stickers, and Moments.
Gemini Live redesign makes it easier to add context to chats
Following the other big interface updates this month, Google is rolling out a small ‘plus’ redesign to Gemini Live on Android that lets you more easily add photos and files. When you activate Gemini Live inside the app, you’ll notice a new ‘plus’ button at the left. Tapping brings up a familiar carousel with the following actions: Share screen, Photos, Files, and Drive. Previously, you first had to add items to the Gemini overlay and then go Live.
What’s new in Android’s October 2026 Google System Updates [U] Original
The monthly “Google System Release Notes” primarily detail what’s new in Play services, Play Store, and Play system update across Android phones/tablets, Wear OS, Google/Android TV, Auto, and PC. Some features apply to end users, while others are aimed at developers.
Chrome 156 for Googlebook rolling out with 14 updates across sites, shortcuts, more Original
Google is rolling out Chrome 156 for Googlebooks with a slew of improvements and bug fixes. This follows the last browser update two weeks ago.
Gemini Live redesign makes it easier to add context to chats
Following the other big interface updates this month, Google is rolling out a small ‘plus’ redesign to Gemini Live on Android that lets you more easily add photos and files. When you activate Gemini Live inside the app, you’ll notice a new ‘plus’ button at the left. Tapping brings up a familiar carousel with the following actions: Share screen, Photos, Files, and Drive. Previously, you first had to add items to the Gemini overlay and then go Live.
Gemini for Android rolls out side panel and settings redesign
Following the Spark-to-Task update, the Gemini app has now rolled out redesigns of the side panel and settings on Android. This revamp starts with Google moving search to the top-right corner. The first item in the list remains New chat, with Library appearing next instead of being located near the bottom. To avoid cluttering the navigation drawer while still allowing you to view recent chats, Gemini displays only five items before making use of “More,” which expands the list upon tapping.
Google Health 5.11 rolling out with Fitbit Air Health Guardian, improved sleep tracking, & more Original
Google Health 5.11 is rolling out this week as a rather big update for Fitbit trackers and the Pixel Watch. The Improved Automatic Activity Tracking is available now for the Fitbit Air, Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5, with the Fitbit Edge getting the capabilities at launch on October 27. Tracks more activities: We expanded the number of activities your Fitbit tracker or Pixel Watch can detect from 10 to up to 100, including strength training, swimming, and racket and team sports.
Google Messages rolling out Enhanced Protection mode against spam and scams Original
Following the announcement earlier this month, Google Messages for Android is rolling out an Enhanced Protection mode to counter spam and scams. To date, Google Messages has offered Standard Protection to block “spam and suspected harmful links.” Enhanced Protection introduces “Advanced detection to prevent spam and scams.” There are three core features at launch.
Gemini Notebook now available as Connected App for deeper integration Original
Gemini Notebooks are already available in the Gemini app side panel, but Google is now adding deeper Connected App integration. As a Connected App like Google Workspace or Photos, @Gemini Notebook “allows you to manage and query notebooks directly within your chats using natural language.” This integration lets you retrieve information from existing notebooks, create new ones, add sources, and save notes.
Google Health 5.11 rolling out expanded 100+ activity detection to Fitbit Air, Pixel Watch Original
With the Fitbit Edge announcement, Google Health previewed improved automatic activity tracking, and it’s now beginning to roll out with version 5.11 of the app. This expanded activity tracking means the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch 3, 4, and 5 go from detecting 10 activities to more than 100, including: Cardio machines Golf High-intensity workouts Racket sports Strength training Swimming Team sports The Fitbit Edge will also benefit from this upgrade.
Google Wallet rolling out notifications feed, support for more digital passports [U]
After the stacked card list redesign, Google Wallet for Android is gaining a notifications feed and support for more passports. On the homepage, you’ll see a notification bell icon next to the profile switcher in the top-right corner. Tapping opens a feed with “updates about items in Wallet.” Earlier this month, the company it was introducing an “in-app message center in Google Wallet.” This new feature is still rolling out via a server-side update.
YouTube removing ‘Subscriptions’ bottom bar tab on Android, iOS after nearly a decade
YouTube is making a number of changes to its Android and iOS apps with the launch of custom feeds, including moving Subscriptions out of the bottom bar. On mobile, YouTube is “kicking off a series of updates to shape a more seamless Home experience.” This starts with a redesigned top bar with dedicated feeds. As part of this change, YouTube is removing the Subscriptions tab from its fourth position in the bottom bar.
Gemini app expands Google Maps Personal Intelligence, replacing Deep Think Original
Besides coming to Android Auto this week, Personal Intelligence in the Gemini app is also expanding its Google Maps integration. Personal Intelligence uses your emails, docs, photos, videos, and more to customize Gemini responses without you having to be specific. Since launch, the “Search services” Connected App has allowed Gemini to access Search, Maps, Shopping, News, and Google Flights and Hotels. The Google Maps integration is now expanding to your searches and saved places.
Google Wallet rolling out notifications feed, support for more digital passports
After the stacked card list redesign, Google Wallet for Android is gaining a notifications feed and support for more passports. On the homepage, you’ll see a notification bell icon next to the profile switcher in the top-right corner. Tapping opens a feed with “updates about items in Wallet.” Earlier this month, the company it was introducing an “in-app message center in Google Wallet.” This new feature is still rolling out via a server-side update.
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