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Android 16 enables screen-off fingerprint unlock on Pixel 9

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Android 16

Android 16 introduces a new feature for Pixel phones, specifically the Pixel 9 series: fingerprint unlocking while the screen is off.

In Android 16 Developer Preview 2, a new setting called “Screen-off fingerprint unlock” lets users activate the fingerprint sensor even when the display is completely dark. This is a notable new feature in the preview, as other changes were largely visual tweaks.

This functionality appears exclusive to the Pixel 9 series, likely due to its new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. Older Pixel phones use optical sensors, which emit light when activated. Keeping these sensors constantly active could lead to accidental light activation, especially in dark environments. Ultrasonic sensors don’t use light, making screen-off unlocking a smoother experience.

While always-on display (AOD) has offered similar functionality by keeping the fingerprint sensor active when the time is shown, this new option benefits users who prefer not to use AOD.

On Pixel 9 devices running Android 16 Developer Preview 2, the setting can be found in Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock > Fingerprint Unlock.

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Android

Google Pixel Weather app now shows pollen info in the US

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Google

Google is adding a new feature to its Pixel Weather app. Now, users in the United States can see pollen levels in their area. This update is especially helpful for people who have allergies and need to know when pollen is high.

In the Weather app, there’s a new section under the daily forecast that shows pollen conditions. It uses simple labels like “low,” “moderate,” and “high” so it’s easy to understand. This new feature pulls information from the same source that Google Search uses for pollen updates.

However, the new pollen section in the Pixel Weather app is only available in the US for now. If you’re outside the US, you won’t see the pollen data yet. Also, not every user may get it immediately, as Google is still rolling out the update.

To use the feature, you need to have the latest version of the Pixel Weather app, which comes built into Pixel devices. Google may expand this feature to more countries in the future, but there’s no official date yet.

Overall, this small update can make a big difference for users who want quick and easy access to local pollen conditions without searching separately.

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Android

Google updates Gboard emoji kitchen and Android Auto with new features

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Android Auto

Google is bringing some fresh updates to make Gboard and Android Auto even better.

Starting with Gboard, the Emoji Kitchen now has a new “Browse” section. This makes it easier for users to find different emoji sticker combos. You can tap on any emoji and instantly see all the creative mixes available. Plus, there’s a search bar to help you look for specific stickers. This new feature is rolling out first to Pixel devices, with other Android phones expected to get it in the coming months.

On the other hand, Android Auto is now getting the 14.3 beta update. Although there are no big changes yet, this version mainly focuses on fixing bugs and improving performance. Testers have noticed slight speed improvements, but no new features have been spotted so far. Google might be preparing for bigger changes in future updates.

Both these updates show that Google is working hard to make its apps smoother and easier to use. Gboard’s new browsing tool will make messaging more fun, while Android Auto’s small fixes are important for a better driving experience.

If you have a Pixel phone or are part of the Android Auto beta program, you might already see these updates. Otherwise, they should be available to more users soon.

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Android

Android’s Find My Device speeds up with UWB coming soon

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Google Find My Device

Google’s Find My Device network for Android has gotten a big boost, making it much quicker to locate misplaced items. Recent checks show it’s now four times faster than it used to be, keeping up with Apple’s AirTags in crowded spots like malls or events. For instance, at CES 2025, a tracker tucked in a bag updated its location just as fast as an AirTag nearby. This speed-up is thanks to more Android users turning on tracking for all locations, not only busy areas, which helps the system spot items more reliably.

In less crowded places, the network can still have trouble since fewer Android phones are nearby to share location signals. But Google’s working on this by nudging users through app alerts to enable tracking in quieter spots. Plus, recent updates to tracker software and apps have made connections more stable and accurate.

Looking ahead, Google’s gearing up to roll out ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. This will let you find items with pinpoint accuracy, even within a room, using cool augmented reality (AR) visuals, much like Apple’s setup. The Moto Tag, a tracker ready for UWB, is already available, just waiting for Google to activate this feature. Not all Android phones support UWB yet, but future models like the Pixel 10 might include it. These changes prove Google’s determined to make its Find My Device network a top choice for tracking lost stuff.

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