Key Points:

• New Codename: Android 16 is likely named “Baklava.”
• Early Release: It’s expected to arrive earlier than usual in 2025.
• Impact on Pixel: The Pixel update timing might change.

Google’s next Android version, Android 16, is making waves with its early release and a surprising new codename: “Baklava.” This departs from the usual dessert-themed names like “Vanilla Ice Cream” for Android 15.

Why the Change?

The switch to “Baklava” might be due to a change in Google’s internal development process. This new approach aligns the release timeline more closely with the year, ensuring that Android updates are available sooner for Pixel phones.

What Does This Mean for Pixel Users?

If Google sticks to its plan, Pixel phones could be among the first devices to receive Android 16. This means you might enjoy the latest features and security updates sooner than before. However, it’s important to note that the exact release timing for Pixel devices might still vary.

Stay Tuned for More Updates

As we get closer to the official launch of Android 16, we’ll have more information about its features, release date, and how it will impact your Pixel device.

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Key Points:

• Sleek Design: The Pixel 9a sports a stylish new look with a flush camera bar.
• Android 15 and 7 Years of Updates: Enjoy the latest Android features and security for years to come.
• Powerful Performance: Powered by the Tensor G4 processor, the Pixel 9a delivers impressive speed and efficiency.

Google is gearing up to launch the Pixel 9a, a budget-friendly smartphone that packs a punch. While the Pixel 9 series made waves earlier this year, the Pixel 9a is set to offer a more affordable option without compromising on key features.

One of the standout features of the Pixel 9a is its sleek design. The phone boasts a near-flush camera bar, giving it a premium look. While the bezels may be slightly larger than those on more expensive models, they are still manageable considering the price point.

Under the hood, the Pixel 9a is powered by the Tensor G4 processor, ensuring smooth performance and efficient multitasking. This device will also be one of the first to run Android 15, the latest version of Google’s operating system. Additionally, Google has committed to providing seven years of updates, ensuring that the Pixel 9a stays up-to-date with the latest security patches and features.

While the exact specifications of the Pixel 9a are yet to be confirmed, we can expect it to offer similar features to its predecessor, the Pixel 8a. This includes a large display, ample RAM and storage, and a long-lasting battery.

Overall, the Pixel 9a is shaping up to be a compelling option for those seeking a powerful smartphone at an affordable price. With its sleek design, impressive performance, and long-term support, the Pixel 9a is poised to make a splash in the smartphone market.

You can view the full 5K resolution of these renders here.

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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