Google Pixel: Hidden app risks and faster charging Pixel Buds Pro 2
Key Points:
- Security Risk: Hidden apps in Pixel phones could be exploited by cybercriminals.
- Immediate Action: Palantir bans Android devices after discovery.
- Charging Boost: Pixel Buds Pro 2 charges faster with improved wireless tech.
Google’s Pixel 2 and later smartphones are now facing significant security concerns after a hidden app, potentially exploitable by cybercriminals, was discovered. According to iVerify, a mobile threat detection firm, this app could be used to monitor users or take remote control of their devices.
Hidden App Raises Security Alarms
The problematic app, known as “Showcase,” was initially designed by Smith Micro for Verizon sales staff to demonstrate Pixel devices. However, a recent investigation by iVerify and its client Palantir Technologies, which provides defense software to the U.S. military, revealed that this app presents serious security flaws.
The app, though dormant by default, can be remotely activated, raising concerns that hackers could exploit it to download malicious instructions via an insecure website. Although Google claims that physical access and a user password are required to misuse the app, the inability of users to uninstall it makes millions of Pixel devices vulnerable to potential attacks.
Due to the sensitive nature of Palantir’s operations, the company immediately banned the use of Android devices in its offices. Google has been informed of the issue and plans to release an update to remove the app from all affected Pixel phones. Google spokesperson Ed Fernandez stated that no devices have been reported as compromised through Showcase and that the likelihood of such an incident remains low.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: Faster Wireless Charging
In other news, Google recently unveiled the Pixel Buds Pro 2, which promise to be a top choice for wireless earbuds among Android users. These earbuds not only offer excellent sound quality, noise cancellation, and a long battery life but also feature faster wireless charging capabilities.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 case can now wirelessly charge at a maximum of 5W, which is double the speed of the original Pixel Buds Pro. This means users can expect shorter downtime, as the case can quickly recharge the earbuds multiple times, providing up to 30 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation enabled.
The earbuds will be available in several colors, including Porcelain, Hazel, Wintergreen, and Peony, and are priced at $229 in the U.S., £219 in the UK, and €249 in Europe. Pre-orders are already open, with the earbuds set to launch next month.
Key points:
- Android 15 for Pixel devices was pushed back to October 15.
- Gemini Live, Google’s AI assistant, is now available for free Android users.
- Pixel 6 and later devices will get Android 15, but Pixel 6/6 Pro won’t get future updates.
Android 15 Delayed
Google’s latest Android update, Android 15, is taking a bit longer to reach Pixel phones. While it was released for developers in September, it won’t be available for Pixel users until October 15th. This delay is likely due to Google wanting to make sure the update is as bug-free as possible.
Gemini Live Goes Free
In other Google news, Gemini Live, the company’s AI assistant, is now free for Android users. This means you can use Gemini to help you with tasks like writing emails, summarizing articles, or even translating languages.
Pixel 6 and Later
The Pixel 6 and later devices will be the first to get Android 15. However, this will also be the last guaranteed update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. While they will continue to receive security updates, they won’t get any new features after Android 15.
Key Points:
- Google Calendar is coming to the New Tab Page in Chrome for Workspace users.
- Circle to Search is expanding to more Android devices, including Xiaomi 14T.
- Chrome is getting other new features for enterprise users.
Google Calendar on Chrome’s New Tab Page:
Google Workspace users will soon see their Google Calendar on the New Tab Page in Chrome. This will make it easier to see upcoming meetings and join them quickly. You’ll also see your daily schedule below the calendar.
Circle to Search Expanding to More Devices:
Circle to Search, a feature that lets you search by drawing circles around objects in your photos, is expanding to more Android devices. This feature was previously limited to Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices, but now it’s coming to Tecno and Xiaomi devices.
Other Chrome Updates:
Chrome is also getting other new features for enterprise users, such as a new sign-in flow that provides more transparency and a feature that lets admins set site shortcuts.
These updates are all designed to make it easier for businesses to use Chrome and Google Workspace.
YouTube is making content creation easier and more fun with new AI features.
- AI-powered video backgrounds: Create stunning visuals for your Shorts videos with Google’s Veo AI model.
- AI-powered video ideas: Get inspiration for your next video with YouTube Studio’s AI-powered brainstorming tool.
- AI-powered comments: Quickly respond to your viewers with AI-suggested replies.
YouTube is adding more AI features to help creators make better videos. One of the biggest announcements is the integration of Veo, a powerful AI model, into YouTube Shorts. This means you can create high-quality backgrounds and even short video clips using just a few words.
Imagine being able to describe a scene, like “a bustling city street at sunset,” and having Veo instantly generate a visually stunning background for your Short. Or, perhaps you need a quick clip to transition between two scenes; Veo can create a short video that perfectly fits your needs.
Another exciting feature is the new AI-powered brainstorming tool in YouTube Studio. This tool can suggest video ideas based on your channel’s history and what’s popular on YouTube. It’s like having a creative assistant that always has fresh ideas.
For example, if you’ve been creating cooking videos, the tool might suggest ideas like “Vegan cooking hacks” or “Quick and easy weeknight meals.” Or, if you’re a gaming channel, it could suggest ideas like “Top 5 new games to try” or “Let’s play a classic game.”
YouTube is also working on AI-powered comments. This feature will suggest replies to comments, making it easier for creators to engage with their audience.
For example, if a viewer leaves a comment saying “Great video!” the AI might suggest a reply like “Thanks for watching!” Or, if a viewer asks a question, the AI could suggest a helpful answer based on the video’s content.
These new AI features are making YouTube an even more powerful platform for creators. By automating tasks like background creation and idea generation, creators can spend more time focusing on what they do best: creating great content.
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