Android
Android 16 to introduce customizable “Modes” and enhanced “Rich Ongoing Notifications”
With Android 15 now accessible on eligible Pixel devices and many other brands announcing rollout timelines, Google is already setting its sights on Android 16, the next major update to its mobile OS. Although the full scope of new features remains under wraps, early insights suggest that Android 16 may introduce customizable “Modes,” echoing the classic “Profiles” that were popular on older mobile phones. Additionally, a new notification feature similar to Apple’s Dynamic Island, called “Rich Ongoing Notifications,” may also be in the works. Let’s break down what these updates mean for Android users.
New “Modes” Revive the Old “Profiles” Feature
On older mobile phones, “Profiles” allowed users to quickly set various combinations of ringtones, vibration levels, and volume to match different scenarios—like “Meeting” or “Outdoor”—which could then be saved and accessed quickly. With the arrival of smartphones, these flexible profiles were replaced by simpler settings like “Do Not Disturb” or “Silent Mode.” Android 16, however, could bring back the essence of Profiles with “Modes,” adding an array of customizability not seen since those early days.
According to insights from recent Android 15 beta releases, “Modes” appears set to launch in Android 16 as a fully customizable feature, allowing users to create their own settings for various scenarios. In each Mode, users will be able to adjust and save settings such as the Mode name, notification preferences, display options, and even the icon to easily distinguish each Mode. The real magic comes with a new “trigger” setting, which seems designed to activate specific Modes automatically when certain conditions are met—though Google has yet to confirm precisely what these conditions will include. This flexibility could be a game-changer, allowing Android to adapt intuitively to different user environments.
How “Modes” Work and What They Offer
When a Mode is activated, its icon will appear in the status bar, letting users know it’s active. Users can easily access all Modes either through the main Settings menu or via the Quick Settings panel, making it quick and simple to switch between setups. Google has also included over 40 unique icons for Mode personalization, allowing each user to customize their experience. The customization options hint that Google aims to make Modes versatile enough to handle both simple tasks—like setting up a Mode for work versus personal time—and more complex setups based on location or time.
If implemented as anticipated, “Modes” could bring a level of automation and customization to Android devices that will appeal to users looking for a tailored smartphone experience.
“Rich Ongoing Notifications” to Enhance the Status Bar Experience
Android notifications have evolved significantly over the years, with a focus on ensuring they’re informative yet minimally distracting. Unlike iOS, where apps often remain running in the background, Android allows most apps to close, which means Google continuously optimizes notifications to improve user engagement and limit interruptions.
The latest development in this area is “Rich Ongoing Notifications,” a feature identified in the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 update. This new API would allow apps to display more interactive notifications directly in the Status Bar, beyond the simple icons users see now. The concept is similar to Apple’s Dynamic Island on iOS, allowing notifications to appear as dynamic “chips” that can show text and have customizable backgrounds. Though not yet functional in the latest Android 15 beta, “Rich Ongoing Notifications” may bring more interactive elements to Android’s notification system.
Potential Applications of Rich Ongoing Notifications
Currently, notifications are mostly limited to alerting users of new messages or ongoing app activity with small icons. Rich Ongoing Notifications could allow these icons to expand into small chips with more details, like active calls or running music players. This interactive approach could make notifications more engaging and provide quick access to information without needing to open the app. The chips may also allow users to expand the notification for more details with a simple tap.
While the full functionality of Rich Ongoing Notifications is still under development, it’s clear that Google is exploring ways to make notifications more intuitive and informative for users. Given that the stable version of Android 15 has just rolled out, it’s likely that Android 16 will be the first to integrate this feature fully, providing a fresh take on notifications that feels more cohesive and accessible.
Looking Ahead to Android 16
Though it’s early to know all the changes Google is planning, “Modes” and “Rich Ongoing Notifications” hint at an Android 16 experience focused on deeper customization, automation, and user-friendly interfaces. With Modes, users can look forward to more personalization in how they interact with their phones in various situations. Meanwhile, Rich Ongoing Notifications could give Android’s notification system a fresh, dynamic look, allowing apps to communicate more information at a glance.
Both features showcase Google’s ongoing effort to enhance the Android experience in meaningful, user-centric ways. As Android 16 development progresses, we’ll likely see more of these innovative features refined, ultimately giving users a more flexible and engaging mobile experience.
Android
Google Updates: Easier police reporting on Android Auto, RCS Ad Spam controls in Messages, and Google Photos’ “Moments” redesign
Google is rolling out several updates across its platforms to enhance user experiences. From a significant usability improvement in Android Auto to better spam control in Google Messages and a redesign in Google Photos, these changes aim to simplify and optimize their services. Let’s dive into the details.
Easier Police Reporting on Google Maps for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Google Maps has introduced a small yet impactful update to improve incident reporting on Android Auto. Previously, users had to navigate through multiple menus to report police activity, a common use case for many drivers. With the latest update:
- Streamlined Reporting Menu: The option to report police activity is now prominently placed at the top of the menu, just below critical options like crashes and traffic slowdowns.
- Simpler Terminology: The reporting option has been renamed from “Speed Traps” to a more generalized “Police,” making it easier for users to identify.
- Broad Rollout: This update is server-side, meaning there’s no need to update the Android Auto app. It’s also expected to apply to Google Maps on Apple CarPlay.
This change addresses long-standing feedback, making it more convenient for users to report incidents while on the road.
Google Messages Tackles RCS Ad Spam with a New “STOP” Button
RCS (Rich Communication Services) in Google Messages has been a game-changer for Android messaging. However, in some regions, verified businesses misuse RCS to send unsolicited ads, frustrating users. Google is testing a solution to address this:
- STOP Button for Business Messages:
- A new feature in the beta version of Google Messages (v20241125_04) introduces a prominent “STOP” button.
- Clicking this button automatically sends the “STOP” keyword to unsubscribe from unwanted RCS Business Messages (RBM).
- How It Works:
- Once you unsubscribe, businesses should stop sending messages. If you wish to re-subscribe, you can send the keyword “START” at any time.
- This solution ties to your phone number, ensuring spam control even when switching devices or resetting your phone.
- Why It Matters:
- Previously, users had to rely on blocking and reporting spam, which was cumbersome and device-dependent.
- The STOP feature is more reliable and user-friendly.
While this feature is still in beta and may not be available to all users, you can manually type “STOP” in business chats to achieve the same result. For those overwhelmed by spam, disabling RCS altogether remains an option.
Google Photos: From “Memories” to “Moments”
Google Photos is undergoing a redesign that repositions its “Memories” feature while maintaining its functionality:
- Name and Location Update:
- The “Memories” tab at the bottom bar is now called “Moments.”
- It has been moved to the “Collections” tab alongside other categories like Albums, People & Pets, and Places.
- Clean Navigation:
- With this change, the bottom navigation bar now has three tabs: Photos, Collections, and Search (or Gemini-powered “Ask”).
- This mirrors similar navigation simplifications in Google Maps earlier this year.
- Consistency Across Platforms:
- The update has started rolling out to iOS users with Google Photos version 7.9, and Android users can expect it soon.
The Moments view retains its scrapbook-like organization, allowing users to see their best photos, search for specific memories, and share them easily. The carousel at the top of the main photos grid will continue to use the “Memories” branding.
What These Updates Mean for Users
These updates reflect Google’s focus on user feedback and continuous improvement:
- Better Driving Experience: Simplified police reporting in Google Maps improves safety and convenience for drivers.
- Enhanced Messaging Control: The STOP button in Google Messages offers a much-needed solution to RCS ad spam, saving users time and hassle.
- Streamlined Photo Organization: The Moments redesign in Google Photos makes navigation cleaner and integrates memories more seamlessly.
As these features roll out, users can look forward to a smoother, more intuitive experience across Google’s ecosystem. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available!
Google Pixel Camera 9.6: New Features and Wider Availability
Google’s Pixel Camera 9.6 update, first released in mid-October, is now available to more users via the Google Play Store. This update introduces new features for different Pixel devices, enhancing the user experience with innovative tools and improvements.
Initially, some users were stuck on previous versions like 9.4 (for Pixel 6 to Pixel 8a) and 9.5 (for Pixel 9 series). Recently, Google pushed a patch, version 9.6.080.695519101.19, ensuring all users can access the latest features.
Key Updates in Pixel Camera 9.6
- Improved Timer Options:
Pixel 6 to Pixel 8a owners now have a 5-second timer option alongside the existing 3- and 10-second settings, offering more flexibility for capturing moments. - Enhanced Astrophotography Mode:
Accessing Astrophotography mode is easier. From the Night Sight tab, tap the bottom-right corner and slide to “Astro” to capture stunning shots of the night sky. - Underwater Photography for Pixel 9 Series:
Pixel 9 devices now include an “Underwater photography and video” option under Settings > Advanced. This feature, compatible with any waterproof case, adjusts for accurate colors in underwater environments. When enabled, the viewfinder indicates the mode is active. Unfortunately, this feature is not available on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. - Redesigned Panorama Mode:
Users can now capture panorama shots while holding their devices vertically. Previously, this feature only supported horizontal orientation.
Google Wear OS 5.1: A Glimpse Into the Future
Google has launched a developer preview for Wear OS 5.1, built on Android 15 (API level 35). This update marks a significant leap forward, bringing enhancements to app functionality and new tools for wearable developers.
Evolution of Wear OS:
- Wear OS 3: Based on Android 11
- Wear OS 4: Based on Android 13
- Wear OS 5: Based on Android 14
- Wear OS 5.1: Now based on Android 15
Developers are encouraged to test their apps on API level 35 to ensure compatibility and take advantage of the new capabilities.
Highlighted Features in Wear OS 5.1
- Credential Manager Support:
A unified authentication system simplifies sign-ins using passwords, passkeys, or federated identities (e.g., Sign In with Google). Credentials sync across devices through a credential provider, enhancing security and convenience. - Watch Speaker Playback:
For watches with built-in speakers, users can now select the watch speaker as an output option for media playback. This feature, integrated with the Wear Output Switcher, adds flexibility.
Currently, devices like the Pixel Watch 3 and YouTube Music require Bluetooth headphones for playback, but this update signals a shift. For example, Apple introduced speaker playback on its Apple Watch Series 10, highlighting its practicality for quick audio needs.
Additional Updates and Known Issues
Google also teased support for passkeys in a “Wear OS 5 Quarterly Platform Release” during the 2024 I/O conference.
The Wear OS 5.1 developer preview, released on November 19, includes the following known issues:
- The emulator may fail to let users add accounts during setup after a reset.
- Notifications may not open their corresponding apps immediately until the screen is scrolled.
- Wear Health Services occasionally fail to start exercises.
For testing, developers can access the Wear OS 5.1 emulator via Android Studio.
These updates to the Pixel Camera and Wear OS highlight Google’s focus on enhancing functionality and user experience across devices. Both updates are steps forward in creating a seamless ecosystem of advanced, user-friendly tools.
Google has rolled out Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3.1, a final bug-fixing update before the official launch of QPR1 in December 2024. While many users have moved to Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1, this update ensures stability for those still using QPR1.
Key Highlights of QPR1 Beta 3.1
This “minor update” introduces critical fixes to enhance system performance and resolve persistent issues:
- Notification and Media Control Fixes
- A bug that caused the notification shade to close without launching the corresponding app when tapping media controls is resolved.
- The issue where long-pressing the device entry icon failed amidst overlapping notifications has also been fixed.
- Bluetooth and Audio Stability
- Volume control issues with certain Bluetooth devices are now resolved, enhancing audio device compatibility.
- Material You and Visual Improvements
- Wallpaper-based color selections under Material You now show better distinction, avoiding overly similar tones.
- Scrollbar inconsistencies in system settings are corrected for a more polished UI.
- NFC and Localization Enhancements
- NFC payment reliability has been improved.
- Translation issues in Indonesian and Hebrew for apps targeting Android 14 or lower have been fixed.
- General Stability and Accessibility
- Improvements cover system stability, camera functionality, and accessibility features.
Supported Devices and Installation Options
The update is compatible with Pixel devices from the Pixel 6 series to the latest Pixel 9 Pro Fold. It includes the November 2024 security patch. Most users can install the update via the Android Beta Program, with options to flash or sideload factory images for advanced setups.
This update paves the way for Android 15 QPR1’s stable release, ensuring a smoother experience for Pixel users. For those on the Beta Program, the new version will automatically download.
For more detailed installation guides and the full changelog, visit or the official factory image repository.
This update emphasizes Google’s commitment to refining Android 15 and service experience ahead of the December release.
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