The Disney+ app on the Google TV Streamer has hit a snag, leaving some users unable to enjoy their favorite shows and movies. Despite the device functioning normally, a peculiar glitch has emerged where the video fails to display, although the audio continues to play.

This issue came to light over the weekend when users began sharing their frustrations online. The app itself seems to work fine up to the point where playback should begin; however, the screen remains blank, leaving viewers puzzled yet able to hear the content.

Interestingly, a workaround has been discovered by some where streaming the video through the Google TV app on an Android device bypasses the issue, but this is only a temporary fix since it doesn’t resolve the underlying problem within the Disney+ app on the Streamer. Adjusting the resolution settings has also helped a few users, indicating that the problem might be related to how the app handles different display settings.

While the issue isn’t affecting everyone, and our attempts to replicate it were unsuccessful, it’s clear that a software patch is needed. Disney+ users affected by this are eagerly awaiting an update to restore their viewing experience. If you’re experiencing this glitch, your feedback could help in pinpointing the cause more quickly. Keep an eye out for an app update which should hopefully address this annoying hiccup.

In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, Google is already laying the groundwork for its next generations of Pixel devices. The anticipated Pixel 11 series, set for release in 2026, will adopt bear-themed codenames, signaling a new thematic direction for Google’s naming conventions. The lineup includes:

• Pixel 11 – “cubs” or “4CS4”
• Pixel 11 Pro – “grizzly” or “CGY4”
• Pixel 11 Pro XL – “kodiak” or “PKK4”
• Pixel 11 Pro Fold – “yogi” or “9YI4”

These devices are expected to be powered by Google’s fully in-house developed Tensor G6, codenamed “malibu,” promising significant advancements in performance and efficiency.

Meanwhile, the Pixel 10a, slated for a 2026 launch, introduces the codename “stallion” or “STA5.” Interestingly, Google faces a crossroads with its chip strategy for this midrange model. There’s a debate on whether to equip it with the cutting-edge Tensor G5 or to continue with the previous generation’s Samsung-designed Tensor G4 due to cost considerations. The G5, being notably larger, might not make economic sense for a midrange device, potentially limiting the Pixel 10a’s features if it sticks with the older chip.

This decision reflects Google’s ongoing adjustments to its product strategy, aiming to balance innovation with cost-effectiveness in its diverse Pixel lineup. As we await the Pixel 9a, the early buzz around the Pixel 10a and Pixel 11 series already sets the stage for what Google has in store for its fans in the tech landscape.

The world of audio is on the cusp of a significant transformation, thanks to a collaborative effort by Google and Samsung. They’ve unveiled Eclipsa Audio, an open-source spatial audio format poised to democratize immersive sound experiences for creators and consumers alike. This isn’t just an incremental improvement; it’s a fundamental shift in how we create and consume audio.

For decades, crafting spatial audio has been the domain of seasoned professionals working in high-budget film and music productions. The tools and expertise required were simply inaccessible to the average creator. Eclipsa Audio aims to change all of that. Built on the foundation of Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF), an audio format developed in conjunction with the Alliance for Open Media (AOM), Eclipsa Audio offers a royalty-free, open standard for anyone to utilize. This means that aspiring musicians, independent filmmakers, and even casual content creators can now easily incorporate rich, three-dimensional audio into their work. 

Google’s Open Audio team emphasizes that while spatial audio technology has existed for over half a century, its widespread adoption has been hampered by a lack of accessible tools. Eclipsa Audio directly addresses this challenge by providing freely available tools for creating immersive audio experiences.

This includes an open-source reference renderer for standalone playback, and a Binaural Web Demo Application where users can test their Eclipsa Audio creations directly in their web browsers. Furthermore, Google plans to release a free Eclipsa Audio plugin for the industry-standard AVID Pro Tools Digital Audio Workstation in the spring, further streamlining the creation process for professionals. 

The implications of this technology are far-reaching. Imagine experiencing a live concert recording where you can distinctly hear the position of each instrument on the stage, or watching a movie where the sound of rain realistically surrounds you. This level of immersion was previously reserved for high-end setups, but Eclipsa Audio makes it accessible to a wider audience.

YouTube has already announced its support for Eclipsa Audio, paving the way for creators to upload videos with immersive soundscapes. This integration will undoubtedly usher in a new era of online video content, where audio plays an even more crucial role in storytelling. Beyond online platforms, Eclipsa Audio is also making its way into consumer electronics. Samsung’s 2025 TV lineup, including the Crystal UHD series and Neo QLED 8K models, will feature native Eclipsa Audio playback. Google has also confirmed that Chrome will support the format this year, although specific details regarding desktop and mobile support are still forthcoming. Looking ahead, Google anticipates widespread adoption of Eclipsa Audio in TVs and soundbars from various manufacturers later in 2025. 

To ensure quality and interoperability, Samsung and Google are establishing a certification and brand licensing program for products supporting Eclipsa Audio. This program will provide assurance to both manufacturers and consumers that devices bearing the Eclipsa Audio logo meet the necessary standards for optimal playback.

Android 16: An Early Arrival and a Glimpse into the Future

In related news, Google is accelerating the release schedule for its next major Android platform upgrade, Android 16. The first developer preview arrived earlier than usual last November, followed by another preview build. Beta testing is expected to commence soon, and while official release dates haven’t been formally announced, a slip-up on the Android Gerrit may have revealed some key information. 

According to the official Android 16 release timeline, beta testing will begin this month, with subsequent beta releases planned for February and March. However, a comment spotted by an Android enthusiast on the Android Gerrit suggests more specific dates. The comment indicates that Android 16 Beta 3 will be released on March 12th. The same comment also mentions January 22nd and February 19th, which could potentially be the release dates for Beta 1 and Beta 2, respectively.

The release of Beta 3 signifies a crucial milestone known as Platform Stability. This means that the core APIs and behaviors of the operating system are finalized, allowing developers to begin preparing their apps for the stable release. Following Beta 3, Google may release additional beta builds in April and May for final testing and refinement. The stable version of Android 16 is expected to be released to AOSP and Pixel devices in the second quarter of 2025.

Android 16 is anticipated to bring a host of new features and improvements to the Android ecosystem. While details are still emerging, early leaks and announcements hint at significant changes across various aspects of the operating system.

The convergence of Eclipsa Audio and Android 16 represents a significant leap forward in mobile technology. The combination of immersive audio experiences and a refined operating system promises to enhance the way we interact with our devices, ushering in a new era of mobile computing.