Apps
AI App Highlights come to Google Play Store [Early Access]
Google not only brought AI-powered Pixel phones but also fueling it across the Android ecosystem. Google Play Store seems to be testing an AI-derived App Highlights feature for a future release.
X users AssembleDebug spotted the AI-powered App Highlights feature in the Google Play Store. As the name suggests, the new function offers key points about the apps, similar to the AI-based FAQ’s feature.
Follow us on X (Twitter) and Telegram
Google Play Store v39.1 brings strings related to the AI-powered Highlights function. While the new section is hidden by flags, a future release is expected to deploy changes to general users.
As shown in the screenshot, App Highlights for X include details on Feed, Groups, Discovery, Messaging and Live streaming. There’s also a label at the bottom side, displaying that the text shown above is generated by AI.
// Via
Apps
Google Maps lets you report traffic jams and accidents on Apple CarPlay, but not on Android Auto
Google just added a feature that lets you report accidents, slowdowns, and other road issues directly from your car’s display. Well, it is currently limited to Google Maps on Apple CarPlay.
Similar to Waze, Google Maps on CarPlay now has a button to report accidents, slowdowns, construction, lane closures, stalled vehicles, objects on the road, and even speed traps. Just like before, you can still see reports from other drivers about these issues on your route.
By reporting issues, you can help other drivers avoid traffic jams and accidents. With everyone contributing information, Google Maps can provide more accurate traffic conditions and ETAs.
Unfortunately, Android Auto users are still left out. We’ve been asking Google to add this feature for a while now, so hopefully it’s coming soon!
This feature is new and might not be available to everyone yet. In the meantime, stay safe on the roads and report any issues you see on Google Maps if you’re using CarPlay.
Apps
Google working on a new video editing feature for its Photo app
Google Photos app is about to take your video editing a step further. A hidden feature found in app version 6.90 hints at an upcoming video speed editor (via Android Authority). This means you’ll be able to ditch third-party apps and adjust video playback directly within Google Photos.
The video editor offers various speeds like 1/4x for super slow-mo or 4x for fast-forwarding. You can even choose to adjust the entire video or just a specific section, perfect for highlighting key moments. It’s still under development, so expect a more user-friendly icon instead of the current “1x” placeholder.
Additionally, future updates might allow you to fine-tune the speed of different parts within the same video for even more control.
This upcoming video speed editor marks a significant upgrade for Google Photos, making it a more comprehensive video editing tool. Keep an eye out for this update to add some fun and flexibility to your video editing experience.
Apps
Google Contacts app testing new Besties Widget
Contacts app’s version 4.35 suggests that Google is working on a Besties Widget. The app’s forthcoming Besties Widget has the exact layout as the Favorite widget and shows starred contacts.
9to5Google spotted that Google Contacts for Android will soon get a new Besties Widget. Meanwhile, the APKTeardown has not revealed the functionality or widget design.
It is expected that the new Besties Widget will replace the Favorite widget. As of now, the widget hasn’t reached its functional stage, however, a future update to the app will bring significant development.
It is assumed that the widget’s development is currently in quite early phases. Recently, the Contacts app updated its individual contact widget with the ability to display notifications.
You can download the app from the Google Play Store for your Android device for free.
-
Apps9 months ago
Gboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
News9 months ago
Samsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
News8 months ago
Breaking: Samsung Galaxy S22 may get Galaxy AI features
-
News8 months ago
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra with One UI 6.1 and all S24 AI features revealed
-
News9 months ago
One UI 6.1 Auracast (Bluetooth LE Audio) feature coming to many Samsung phones
-
News9 months ago
Satellite SOS feature coming to Google Pixel phones, evidence leaked
-
Apps6 months ago
Google’s fancy new Weather app is finally available for more Android phones
-
News9 months ago
Google Pixel evolves as Europe’s third best selling flagship