Pixel Buds app visible in Pixel Launcher after update and Google TV moves away from full-width search bar

Top 3 Key Points:
- The Pixel Buds app now appears in Pixel Launcher after the latest update.
- Google TV redesign replaces the full-width search bar with a more compact magnifying glass icon.
- The redesign of Google TV enhances the user experience by offering a more immersive interface.
Google has made a significant update to its Pixel phones by allowing the Pixel Buds app to now appear in the Pixel Launcher, a feature that was previously hidden. With the new version 1.0.673625792 of the Pixel Buds app, which also supports the upcoming Pixel Buds Pro 2, the app can be displayed directly in the launcher when your Pixel Buds are paired or saved to the device.
This change allows users to place the Pixel Buds app on their home screens for quick access to settings, instead of using a widget or shortcut that shows a live image of the headphones. While some found the previous shortcut, which displayed a small icon of the headphones in the corner, out of place on their home screens, this new option simplifies access. Some users might still prefer using the Battery widget or the Bluetooth Quick Settings Tile for even faster access.
It’s important to note that this app icon was always visible on other Android devices, but only Pixel phones had it hidden. The updated version of the Pixel Buds app is now available through the Play Store for all users.
Meanwhile, Google TV’s Android app is undergoing a redesign to streamline its interface, moving away from the large, full-width search bar at the top. Previously, this bar featured “Google TV” branding, a voice search shortcut, and a user account switcher. The redesign replaces the large bar with a smaller magnifying glass icon next to the user’s profile avatar, while the “Google TV” logo shifts to the top-left corner of the screen.
This new layout allows artwork to extend to the top of the screen, creating a more immersive experience for users. When you initiate a search, you’ll now find an “Explore genres” grid, featuring categories like Action, Comedy, and Animated content. This leads to dedicated pages with more viewing options, a feature that wasn’t part of the previous design.
Many of Google’s apps, such as Google Messages and the Play Store, have been adopting similar minimalistic designs by removing large search bars in favor of smaller icons. While the full-width bar makes it easier to find and access search features, the compact magnifying glass icon saves space and looks more modern.
The Google TV redesign is currently rolling out via server-side updates, but it’s not yet widely available. Some devices, including the Pixel Fold, are already showing these changes with version 4.39.2486.x of the app.
Gemini app now blocks kids’ access and Google Clock adds new alarm features

Google has updated its Gemini app to make it safer for kids. Now, children with supervised accounts through Google Family Link can no longer use the Gemini app or its chatbot on Android. When they try to open it, they’ll see a message saying the app isn’t available for their account. This change also affects the Gemini experience inside the Google app.
This move is meant to protect kids from AI tools that might not be suitable for them. While supervised accounts still work with some other Google apps like Search, Gemini is now off-limits for younger users. Google hasn’t said if this block will ever be lifted or if they’re planning a kid-friendly version of Gemini in the future.
At the same time, the Google Clock app has received a small but helpful update. Version 7.13 brings a new option called “Alarm display when device is locked.” When you turn this on, your upcoming alarm will show at the bottom of the lock screen. This makes it easier to check your next alarm without unlocking your phone. You’ll find this option under the alarm settings by tapping the three-dot menu.
Both of these updates show how Google is working to make its apps more helpful and safer for everyone.
Google tests tap-to-add card feature and easier emoji kitchen browsing

First, Google Wallet might soon let you add a credit or debit card just by tapping it on the back of your phone. This new feature uses NFC (Near Field Communication) and could make adding payment cards quicker and easier, especially for people who don’t want to enter card details manually. The feature was spotted in the latest version of the Wallet app with the message: “Try holding your card to the back of your phone to add it.” While it’s not active yet, it hints at a faster way to set up contactless payments.
At the same time, Google is making Emoji Kitchen easier to explore. Emoji Kitchen lets you combine two emojis to create fun, custom versions. Previously, it was hard to browse different combinations. Now, Google is rolling out a new “Browse” section in Gboard. This lets users scroll through popular emoji combos, like smiley face + cowboy hat, without having to guess which ones work. You can also tap one to send it directly in your message.
These updates show how Google is improving both everyday tasks like payments and fun features like emojis. The tap-to-add card option and improved emoji browsing are expected to make Android devices more user-friendly in future updates. Would you like me to notify you when these features officially roll out?
Android
Google Pixel Weather app now shows pollen info in the US

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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