Key points:

• Google’s Pixel phones are known for their distinctive camera bar.
• The Pixel 9’s camera bar is larger and more prominent than previous models.
• Some love the bold design while others find it excessive.

Google’s Pixel smartphones have always stood out with their unique camera bar. It started as a sleek way to house multiple cameras, but with each new model, the bar has grown larger and more prominent. The Pixel 9 takes this trend to a new level, with a camera bar that’s both striking and divisive.

Some people love the bold design, arguing that it makes the phone stand out from the crowd. They appreciate the way it adds a touch of personality and uniqueness to the device. Others find it excessive, believing it detracts from the overall aesthetics of the phone. They argue that the camera bar is too large and dominant, making the phone look unbalanced and clunky.

The Pixel 9’s camera bar is a testament to Google’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone design. While some may find it controversial, there’s no denying that it’s a conversation starter. It’s a bold statement that shows Google’s willingness to take risks and try something new.

Whether you love it or hate it, the Pixel 9’s camera bar is a feature that’s sure to be remembered. It’s a symbol of Google’s unique approach to smartphone design, and it’s a reminder that even the most iconic design choices can be divisive.

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Here’s a quick rundown of the latest tech news:

• Calling it Quits on the Big Screen: Google Meet, the popular video calling app, will soon be saying goodbye to Android TV and Google TV. While not the most widely used feature, it offered a convenient way to make video calls on your TV with a webcam.
• Storage at a Glance: Gmail on the web is getting a handy upgrade! A new storage indicator has been added to the account switcher menu. With a quick tap, this lets you see how much storage you’re using out of your total Google Drive space.
• Smarter Chat with Gemini: Google Chat is getting a brain boost with the rollout of Gemini to Workspace Labs. This AI-powered tool helps you summarize conversations, generate to-do lists from discussions, and even answer specific questions within a chat.

Let’s dive deeper into each of these updates:

Meet Exits the Living Room:

While Google Meet on Android TV was helpful during the pandemic, it seems its time has come. Recent code updates suggest Google plans to discontinue the app. A message within the app hints at this, mentioning “deprecation” and prompting users to find alternatives. This follows a similar shutdown of Meet on Samsung TVs earlier this year.

For those who relied on Meet for TV video calls, it’s wise to start exploring other options.

Gmail Gets Storage Savvy:

Ever wondered how much storage you’ve used in your Gmail account? Now, checking is easier than ever. A new storage indicator has been added to the Gmail account switcher menu. It displays a clear percentage of your total storage used, along with a handy Google One shortcut if you need more space. This complements the existing indicator already present at the bottom of Gmail’s main page.

This update extends to standalone Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides as well, offering a quick way to monitor your storage usage across various Google services.

Gemini Joins the Workspace Party:

For Workspace users, Google Chat is getting a major upgrade with Gemini. This AI assistant is now available in Workspace Labs, offering a range of helpful tools. With Gemini, you can summarize entire chat spaces or specific conversations, extract actionable items from discussions, and even ask questions and get answers directly within your chat window.

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Key Points:

• Android 15 introduces a new Home Controls screensaver for Pixel devices.
• The Dreams app powers this screensaver and other features like Weather Frog and full-screen clocks.
• Google has released an update for the Dreams app on Pixel phones running Android 15.

Google’s Dreams app, which is used to create personalized screensavers and experiences on Pixel devices, has received a new update. This update is specifically for Pixel phones running the latest version of Android, Android 15.

One of the major features introduced in Android 15 is the Home Controls screensaver. This screensaver provides quick access to your home’s smart devices directly from your phone’s lock screen or Quick Settings. The Dreams app plays a crucial role in powering this screensaver, making it customizable and visually appealing.

In addition to the Home Controls screensaver, the Dreams app also powers other features like Weather Frog, full-screen clocks, and Google Photos slideshows. With this update, Google has enhanced the Dreams app’s functionality and improved its overall performance.

While there may not be any immediately noticeable changes for users, this update likely lays the groundwork for future enhancements and features in the Dreams app. As Google continues to develop and refine the Dreams app, we can expect to see even more innovative and personalized experiences on Pixel devices.

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