News
Weekly Headlines: Google beats Samsung, March 2024 Update, Circle to Search, Pixel Watch 3 UWB and more

Welcome to Weekly Headlines at I M Judge!
I guess, you may have installed the latest Feature Drop on your Pixel. So it’s the third week of our Weekly Headlines streak that takes you to all the latest and breaking insights about Google and Android. I will try to put useful and interesting topics as much as possible.
1️⃣ Pixel March 2024 Feature Drop
As expected, Google rolled out the March 2024 Feature Drop for Pixel phones on the first Monday of the month. The update is available for Pixel 5a 5G and all other Tensor-powered Pixel devices and brings features namely:
- Improved Call Screen
- HDR: Pixel Camera x Instagram
- Circle to Search
2️⃣ Circle to Search for Pixel 7 & 7 Pro
Google announced the expansion of Circle to Search feature to 2022’s flagship phones – Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. Read more here:
3️⃣ March 2024 Android Fixes
Earlier this month, Google started rolling out the March 2024 update to Pixel devices, bringing the latest security fixes, enhancements. The software improves Bluetooth and WiFi, Camera, Display and Graphics, UI and more:
Google Pixel March 2024 update improves Camera, Display, UI and more
4️⃣ Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2
Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2, bringing fixes for 8 major issues, rolled out to Google Pixel 5a, Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 resolves 8 major issues:
5️⃣ Pixel Watch 3 UWB
Google is reportedly working to fuel ultra-wideband (UWB) technology in the Pixel Watch 3. It might supercharge the Watch Unlock feature with the inclusion of ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity.
6️⃣ Threads x Pixel: Ultra HDR/10-bit HDR
Threads quietly added support for Ultra HDR images and 10-bit HDR videos on Google Pixel devices. With the March Feature Drop, Google announced an HDR upgrade for Instagram, which also applied to Threads.
7️⃣ Google outshines Samsung in Japan
IDC reported that the Japanese smartphone market’s growth declined by 11% year on year. Google Pixel scored an outstanding growth of 527% in Japan in 2023. Google with a 10.7% share outshined Samsung (6.3%).
The next Weekly Headlines will be more thrilling. Help me make it more user-centric and useful by giving feedback and taking a bit of your precious time through comments.
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Google Photos’ magic editor gets a save boost and Gemini Live expands to Android

Google Photos is making photo editing simpler with a fresh update to its Magic Editor. This tool now lets users save their edited pictures as new copies, keeping the originals safe. Before, changes were permanent, but now you can tweak your images—like removing unwanted objects or adjusting backgrounds—without worry.
If something goes wrong, like an edit not looking right, Magic Editor also has a quick fix option to undo mistakes easily. This update started rolling out on April 3, 2025, for both Android and iPhone users, though it might take a few weeks to reach everyone.
In other news, Google’s Gemini Live, powered by the Astra AI model, is now available on more Android devices. This feature lets you talk to your phone naturally, like chatting with a friend, to get help with tasks or answers to questions. It’s designed to understand everyday language and respond fast.
The rollout began on April 3, 2025, and is expanding to users worldwide, though some might need to wait a bit depending on their device and location. Gemini Live aims to make your phone smarter and more helpful, whether you’re asking for directions or brainstorming ideas.
Both updates show Google’s push to improve its tools with easy, practical features. Magic Editor’s save and fix options give you more control over your photos, while Gemini Live brings a friendly, voice-powered assistant to your pocket. These changes are rolling out now, so keep an eye on your device for the latest upgrades. Whether you love editing pics or need a hand with daily tasks, Google’s got something new for you to try!
Android
New Android Auto update brings games with a catch

Google is rolling out a fun update for Android Auto, adding games to keep drivers entertained. This change, spotted in the latest Android Auto version (12.0), lets users play simple games right on their car’s screen. However, there’s a small twist: you’ll need to connect your phone to the car with a USB cable.
The update includes a “GameSnacks” feature, which offers quick, easy-to-play games. These are perfect for passing the time during a long wait, like at a charging station or in traffic. The games are lightweight and designed to work smoothly without needing a strong internet connection. But here’s the key detail—wireless Android Auto won’t support this. You must plug in your phone using a cable to enjoy them.
Why the cable rule? It seems Google wants to ensure a stable connection for the games to run well. Wireless setups can sometimes lag or drop, which could ruin the fun. Plus, a wired link might help save battery life on your phone while you play. For now, only a few users have this feature, as Google is testing it slowly.
This isn’t the first time Android Auto has added extras. Over the years, it’s grown from just maps and music to a full dashboard with apps and now games. Still, some might wonder if games could distract drivers. Google likely thought of that, so the feature only works when the car is parked.
If you’re excited to try this, check your Android Auto app for version 12.0. Grab a USB cable, plug in, and see if GameSnacks pops up. It’s a small addition, but it could make those boring waits a lot more fun!
Android
Android 16 brings simpler app controls

Google is working on Android 16, and it’s set to make managing apps easier than ever. A new feature spotted in the latest test version lets you tweak app settings right from the app’s info page. This means less digging through menus to change how an app works on your phone.
In the current Android setup, if you want to adjust things like permissions or notifications, you often have to jump between different screens. It’s not hard, but it can feel like a chore. With Android 16, everything you need—permissions, data use, and more—will be in one spot. For example, you could quickly turn off an app’s access to your camera or check how much battery it’s eating up, all without leaving that page.
This change comes from something called “App Settings Panels,” which Google is testing now. It’s not live for everyone yet, but it’s a sign of what’s coming. The idea is to save you time and make your phone feel smoother to use. Imagine opening an app’s info and seeing all the key options laid out simply—no extra taps needed.
There’s more good news: Android 16 might roll out sooner than usual. Some rumors say Google could drop it as early as June 2025, instead of the typical fall release. That’s because they’re speeding up how they build and test updates. Of course, this is still in the works, so the exact date could shift.
For anyone who loves keeping their phone just right, this update looks like a win. Fewer steps to control apps mean less hassle and more time enjoying your device. Keep an eye out—Android 16 could change how you handle your apps for the better!
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