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New RCS update brings stronger security, backed by Google and Apple

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For a while, RCS messaging missed out on a key feature: end-to-end encryption. But now, the GSMA has shared exciting news—the latest RCS update includes this much-needed security boost. Even better, tech giants Google and Apple are fully on board.

The RCS Universal Profile 3.0 introduces end-to-end encryption using something called the “Messaging Layer Security” (MLS) protocol. In simple terms, this update sets rules for keeping chats safe across different RCS apps and companies. It ensures that messages, files, and other shared content stay private as they move between users.

The GSMA says this change makes RCS the first widely used messaging service to offer secure, encrypted chats that work across apps from different providers. Paired with features like SIM-based verification, this upgrade protects users from scams, fraud, and privacy risks, giving RCS a top-notch safety edge.

This news follows another big win for RCS: Apple added support for it in iOS last year. Around that time, hints dropped that the GSMA and Google were teaming up to add encryption. Now, it’s official. Apple told 9to5Mac it’s happy to have helped lead this push and will roll out updates for iOS, macOS, iPadOS, and watchOS soon. They’ve long used this kind of encryption in iMessage and are thrilled to bring it to RCS, too.

Google’s also jumping in. They told The Verge that their Messages app has had encrypted RCS chats since 2020. Now, they’re eager to update it fast to match this new standard. This could even let Google Messages securely connect with other RCS apps on Android, though those are getting rarer. For now, these changes aren’t live yet—the standard is set, but the updates are still coming. When they do, RCS will be a safer, more private way to chat, no matter what device you use.

Google

Google Account app getting a new design with expressive material theme

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Google

Google is rolling out a fresh look for the Google Account app on Android. The app now follows the new Expressive Material design, giving it a more colorful and modern style. This update makes the app match the latest design changes seen in other Google apps like Google Messages.

The new design keeps the main features the same but refreshes how everything looks. For example, the profile page now shows bigger icons and uses soft color accents based on your wallpaper, thanks to Google’s Material You theming. Settings and options are also arranged more neatly, making the app easier to use.

While the core functions of the Google Account app are unchanged, the visual improvements aim to make the experience more pleasant. You’ll still be able to manage things like your personal info, security settings, and connected devices easily.

Right now, the update isn’t available to everyone yet. It looks like Google is slowly testing it through a server-side rollout. If you want to try it early, you can download the updated APK from trusted sites like APKMirror. However, some users might not see the changes immediately, even after installing the new version.

Google is continuing its push to refresh its apps with the Expressive Material design, and the Google Account app is the latest to join the trend.

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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’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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