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Google launches Android 16 Beta 3 for Pixel users

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Android 16

Google is releasing Android 16 Beta 3 for Pixel devices today, hitting a key milestone called Platform Stability. This step locks in how apps work with the system, letting developers tweak their apps to match the update. This beta version brings a neat feature called Auracast, which lets hearing aids and earbuds connect directly to audio from places like airports, concerts, or classrooms. It’s a handy way to hear announcements or music clearly in public spots.

Android 16 Beta 3 also swaps out high-contrast text for something called outline text. This makes words stand out more by adding a bigger, bold area around them, so they’re easier to read. Plus, there are new tools for apps to check if this feature is on, helping developers make things more accessible.

For app makers, there’s a new Local Network Protection (LNP) option to test. It gives people more say over which apps can talk to devices nearby, like smart speakers or TVs. Right now, any app with internet access can do this, but soon, apps will need special permission. This change will roll out fully in a later Android update.

Google also fixed a bunch of problems. They tackled battery drain issues, stopped random reboots, and sorted out a glitch where the At a Glance widget showed old info on the always-on screen. Other small fixes boosted system speed, stability, and Bluetooth connections.

Pixel users can share thoughts using the Android Beta Feedback app, found in the app drawer or Quick Settings. There’s also a Reddit community for Android Beta fans to chat about it. Android 16 Beta 3 (BP22.250221.010) comes with the March 2025 security update and works on tons of Pixel models, like the Pixel 6, 7, 8, 9 series, plus the Pixel Tablet, Fold, and Emulator. You can download it now and give it a try!

  • Pixel 9 Pro Fold: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 9 Pro XL: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 9 Pro: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 9: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
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  • Pixel Fold: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel Tablet: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 7a: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 7 Pro: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 7: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 6a: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 6 Pro: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
  • Pixel 6: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA

Android

Android 15 grows slowly, while Google brings new AI tools to search and creators

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Android 15

Google has shared the latest Android version usage numbers, showing that Android 15 is still in the early stages of adoption. As of April 2025, only 0.1% of Android devices are using Android 15. This version is currently in its beta phase, mostly available on Pixel and select partner phones. Android 14 leads the way with a 35.2% share, followed by Android 13 at 17.3% and Android 12 at 15.4%. Android 11 still holds 12.4%, showing how long older versions stick around.

Meanwhile, Google is also making changes in its AI efforts. The Gemini AI “prompt bar,” first seen in the Chrome browser, is now being tested in Google Search. This new feature lets users type or click suggestions to ask questions directly using Gemini, making search more interactive. It’s rolling out to more people gradually.

In addition to that, Google introduced Veo, a powerful video generation tool for creators. Veo can make high-quality videos from simple text prompts, using advanced AI to understand scenes, emotions, and cinematic styles. Google is currently letting select creators try Veo through a waitlist.

Together, these updates show how Google is improving both its Android platform and AI services. While Android 15 adoption is just beginning, features like the Gemini prompt bar and Veo highlight the company’s growing focus on AI to enhance user experiences across devices and tools.

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Android

Pixel Watch gets better media controls, and Android tests bubble bar for phones

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Android 16

Google is rolling out two new updates that aim to improve the experience on Android devices, including the Pixel Watch and Android phones.

First, the Pixel Watch is getting upgraded media controls. With the new update, users can now swipe between different media apps like Spotify and YouTube Music more easily. Instead of going back and forth through menus, you can just swipe left or right to switch apps. The update also adds a shortcut to quickly launch the full media app right from the watch. This makes listening to music or podcasts much smoother and faster.

Meanwhile, Google is testing a new feature for Android phones called the “bubble bar.” This new feature is meant to replace or enhance the current taskbar and app dock. It looks like a small floating bar with app icons, similar to bubbles. Users can easily switch between apps without going back to the home screen. The bubble bar could be especially helpful for larger-screen devices like foldables or tablets, making multitasking simpler.

These updates show how Google is working to make Android more user-friendly across different devices. While the Pixel Watch update is starting to roll out now, the bubble bar is still being tested, so it may take a while before it becomes available to everyone.

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Android

Android Auto weather card not working for many users

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Android Auto has recently had a small but annoying problem—its weather card isn’t showing up for many users. Usually, this feature shows the current temperature and weather condition in the top corner of the dashboard, which is helpful while driving. But now, for a lot of people, it’s either missing or just showing a blank space.

Reports about this issue have been popping up on Google’s support forums and Reddit over the past week. Some users say the card disappeared after a recent Android Auto update, while others noticed it went away without any changes to their apps or settings.

What’s odd is that Google hasn’t confirmed if this is a bug or a planned change. As of now, there’s no official fix or update. Some users tried restarting their phones, clearing cache, or reinstalling the app, but these steps didn’t work for everyone.

This isn’t the first time something like this has happened. Android Auto has had similar issues with the weather card in the past, which were usually fixed through updates. Until Google releases a fix or gives more info, users will just have to wait and hope the card comes back soon.

If you’re affected, it’s a good idea to keep your app and phone updated in case a fix rolls out.

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