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Future of Pixel Lineup: Leaked details on Google Pixel Tablet 3, Pixel 9a, and Pixel 11a hardware and features

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As Google continues to develop its Pixel lineup, recent leaks hint at exciting new features and enhancements in the next wave of devices, including the Pixel Tablet 3 and Pixel 9a, both scheduled to arrive within the next few years. These new models seem designed to prioritize productivity and AI performance while offering users accessible alternatives to flagship options. Here’s what we know so far:

Pixel Tablet 3: A Productivity-Centered Device with Expanded Connectivity

Following the release of Google’s first Pixel Tablet in 2023, new leaks indicate that the Pixel Tablet 3 may launch by 2027 with notable improvements tailored to users who need more than just an entertainment device. Key upgrades include the integration of Google’s upcoming Tensor G6 chip, which will allow the tablet to support more intensive applications and multitasking capabilities.

Unique to this model, Google has incorporated an additional USB-C port designed for specific tablet use cases. This port will support USB 3.2 and enable DisplayPort output, allowing users to connect a secondary display through daisy-chaining, effectively enhancing the tablet’s productivity features.

This second USB-C port aims to create a more desktop-like experience, likely aligning with a more mature Android desktop interface by 2027. Google is also rumored to be developing a keyboard and stylus accessory, making this model a solid choice for those who prioritize a flexible workspace over mere entertainment. Despite the new features, the Pixel Tablet 3 will maintain pogo pins for docking with the Charging Speaker Dock, supporting both audio output and seamless charging.

Pixel 9a: Expected Specs, Release Timeline, and Pricing

Set to be part of Google’s affordable lineup, the Pixel 9a might launch as early as March 2025. Leaks reveal it will feature a spacious 6.3-inch display, likely shared with the higher-end Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro models. Expected to operate on the Tensor G4 chipset, this device will include 8GB of RAM and offer storage options of either 128GB or 256GB.

The Pixel 9a’s camera system will feature the 48MP Sony IMX787 sensor, the same one found in the Pixel 9 Pro, promising sharp and detailed photography. Alongside this, a 13MP ultra-wide camera and a 13MP front-facing camera will be standard, ensuring well-rounded performance across various photography needs. Despite its expanded screen and a larger 5,000mAh battery, the Pixel 9a is expected to start at $499, keeping it in line with previous models’ pricing.

Pixel 11a and Pixel Tablet 3: Efficient Tensor Chip Design

Another key development for Google’s 2027 lineup is the potential release of the Pixel 11a, anticipated as a more affordable alternative to flagship models. Both the Pixel 11a and Pixel Tablet 3 may feature the same Tensor G6 chip as Google’s premium devices, but with a twist. Leaks suggest Google will disable some components of the TPU (Tensor Processing Unit) to increase production efficiency and reduce costs. This decision would allow Google to reuse otherwise flawed chips in these devices, creating a small gap in AI processing power compared to flagship Pixel smartphones.

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Google Home Gemini extension expands and new Android gesture in development

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Google is rolling out new updates for its smart home ecosystem and Android users. The Gemini’s Google Home Extension is now widely available, providing enhanced control over smart home devices using conversational commands. Meanwhile, Google is also developing a new gesture for Android that addresses the removal of a popular assistant invocation method, making it easier for users to access their digital assistants.

Google Home Gemini Extension: Enhanced Smart Home Control

In late September, Google introduced a new extension for its Gemini platform that integrates Google Home controls. This week, the Google Home Extension has expanded its availability, particularly for Android users. Here’s what you need to know about this new feature:

  1. Accessing the Extension:
    • To use the Google Home Extension, navigate to Gemini > Extensions on your Android device. Look for the “Google Home” option marked with a green “Public Preview” label. Note that this extension is currently not available on iOS or the web version of Gemini.
  2. Smart Home Device Control:
    • With this extension, users can control various smart home devices like lights, switches, thermostats, fans, window shades, and media systems. Instead of using standard Google Assistant commands, this extension offers more natural, conversational interactions.
    • For example, saying, “The sun is too bright in the living room” will close window blinds, while “Help me clean up the kitchen” activates a robotic vacuum.
  3. Interactive Google Home Card:
    • The results from Gemini will now include an interactive Google Home card, displaying device tiles. Users can manually toggle and adjust settings directly from this card.
  4. Safety Restrictions:
    • For security reasons, the extension cannot control certain devices like cameras, locks, gates, or garage doors. Instead, the app will provide a link to open the Google Home app directly for controlling these devices.

Commands Supported by Google Home Gemini Extension

The following commands showcase the capabilities of the Google Home Extension, making it easier to manage your smart home setup:

  • Lights and Power Control:
    • “Turn on/off [light name].”
    • “Set [light name] to 50%.”
    • “Dim/Brighten the [room name] lights.”
  • Thermostat Control:
    • “Set the temperature to [value].”
    • “Turn on cooling mode.”
    • “Increase/decrease the temperature by 2 degrees.”
  • Fans, A/C Units, and Heaters:
    • “Turn on/off [device name].”
    • “Increase fan speed.”
  • Window Coverings:
    • “Open/close [curtains, blinds, shutters].”
  • Media Devices:
    • “Turn on/off [TV or speaker name].”
    • “Increase volume on [device name].”
  • Other Devices:
    • “Start/Stop [vacuum, washing machine, coffee maker].”

New Android Gesture: Addressing the Loss of Home Button Shortcut

With recent updates, Google introduced Circle to Search, a feature that allows users to quickly search content by long-pressing a gesture button or the home button. However, this change removed a widely used method to invoke the default assistant by long-pressing the home button.

To resolve this, Google is developing a new gesture specifically designed for devices using the traditional three-button navigation system.

  1. Gesture Invocation Options:
    • Android provides several ways to access the default assistant, such as using voice commands like “Hey Google” or “Hi Bixby,” pressing the power button, or swiping up from the bottom corner on gesture navigation devices.
  2. Issue with Circle to Search:
    • When Circle to Search was introduced, it took over the long-press action of the home button. Disabling Circle to Search does not restore this function, making it impossible to use the home button for assistant access in the three-button navigation mode.
  3. New Gesture in Development:
    • In the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3, Google is testing a new corner swipe gesture for three-button navigation. This gesture allows users to swipe diagonally from the left or right bottom corner to invoke the assistant, similar to the existing gesture navigation system.
    • Although this feature is not yet available in the public beta, it has been tested internally and is expected to roll out soon.
  4. Possible Rollout and Adoption:
    • This new gesture might be included in the second quarterly platform release of Android 15, with a potential toggle option similar to other navigation gestures.
    • Some manufacturers like OnePlus are already ahead, implementing their own version of this corner swipe gesture in OxygenOS 15, indicating a trend towards faster adoption across Android devices.

Conclusion

With the wider rollout of Google Home Gemini Extension and the development of a new gesture to simplify assistant access, Google is actively enhancing user experience. The extension offers improved smart home control, making interactions with devices more intuitive and conversational. At the same time, the new Android gesture aims to resolve user frustration caused by the removal of the home button shortcut, providing a seamless experience across different navigation modes.

Overall, these updates showcase Google’s commitment to refining its ecosystem, making it more user-friendly and integrated with modern smart home setups. Keep an eye out for these features as they continue to expand and roll out across Android devices.

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Pixel 9 Pro Fold Repair Costs: A detailed breakdown

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Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Google’s latest foldable, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, comes with a hefty price tag for repairs, especially its inner screen. The replacement of this ultra-thin LTPO OLED display, which includes the frame and hinge, costs between $899.99 and $1,199.99. This is due to its advanced design, featuring a resolution of 2076 x 2152 pixels. The outer screen is more affordable at $189.99.

For other repairs, iFixit offers parts like the rear camera assembly ($249.99), the front cameras ($79.99-$89.99), and a USB-C charging port for $59.99. Battery replacements are priced at $66.99 each for both the base and flip batteries.

The repair process for the inner display is complex, requiring 199 detailed steps and around 3-4 hours to complete. This reflects the intricate design and build of Google’s latest foldable, catering to users who may encounter issues with this sophisticated device.

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Google’s Gemini AI expands file management and smart home widget capabilities

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Google is enhancing its Gemini AI with new features, making it more capable for users who want a versatile virtual assistant. Gemini, which initially offered basic document assistance and image generation, is now gearing up for deeper integration with user files and smart home devices.

Gemini Live for Document Interaction

Google is currently testing a feature called Gemini Live, aimed at making file management more interactive. With this update, users can upload various file types, such as text documents or spreadsheets, and conversationally engage with Gemini. Instead of just reading or summarizing the files, the AI can modify them based on user commands. For example, you could ask Gemini to extract key data points from a spreadsheet or summarize a lengthy document, making it much more efficient for professionals managing multiple files.

This enhanced feature, identified in recent updates of the Google app, hints at a more dynamic interface where users might soon be able to directly talk to Gemini about their files. Although not fully active yet, the development suggests a future where file-based tasks become much simpler, allowing users to ask for changes or information directly in real-time conversations with the AI​.

Google Home’s Smart Widget

In parallel, Google is enhancing its smart home experience through the Google Home app. A new widget, internally named Home Summary, is under development to offer a streamlined overview of all smart devices connected to the Google ecosystem. This widget aims to use AI capabilities, possibly powered by Gemini, to present a summarized view of device statuses, such as temperature adjustments from Nest Thermostats or activity detected by Nest Cameras.

This move is part of Google’s effort to simplify smart home management, addressing user feedback on the current complexity when controlling multiple devices. The widget aims to provide a concise, AI-generated summary right on the home screen, giving users a quick glance at their smart home’s status without diving into the app. Although still in the testing phase, this feature reflects Google’s push to integrate AI deeply into daily digital experiences, making smart home management more intuitive and responsive​.

What’s Next for Users?

Both features, Gemini Live and the Home Summary widget, are designed to be rolled out initially as part of Google’s testing programs. Users who subscribe to Gemini Advanced or participate in Google’s Public Preview may get early access. These updates are a significant part of Google’s strategy to expand its AI ecosystem, enhancing the utility of its apps and making everyday tasks easier for users.

Expect to see these features rolling out more broadly as Google continues to refine its offerings, likely with a focus on deeper integrations across its various apps and smart devices.

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