Android 16 is bringing a small but helpful update that improves how users manage their audio output. Right now, when you’re listening to music or watching a video on your phone, switching the sound to another device, like wireless earbuds or a speaker, can sometimes feel clunky or take too many steps.

To fix this, Google is working on a better media output switcher for Android 16. This new tool will let you easily move audio between different connected devices. For example, if you’re listening to a song on your phone and want to switch the sound to your Bluetooth speaker, you’ll be able to do it quickly through the media controls without needing to go into the settings.

This improved feature was spotted in early Android 16 test builds. It shows a redesigned switcher that groups available audio devices into two clear sections: currently connected devices and other nearby devices. This makes it much easier to pick where you want the sound to go.

This update may seem small, but it’s part of Google’s ongoing work to make Android more user-friendly. It’s especially useful for people who often use wireless earbuds, smart speakers, or cast music to other gadgets. Android 16 is expected to bring more of these handy changes as it moves closer to its final release.

Google is updating some of its products with new features that make things more helpful for users. First, the Google Discover feed is now starting to show posts and accounts from social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Some users are seeing suggested posts from public figures, journalists, and creators directly in their Discover feed.

These posts appear as cards with the username, profile picture, and social media label. Google says it aims to make content more personalized and relevant. However, it looks like this feature is still being tested, and not everyone has it yet.

At the same time, Google is adding a small but helpful feature to the Pixel Watch. A new “Ring your phone” option has appeared in the Personal Safety app on Pixel phones. This lets users make their phone ring using the Pixel Watch, making it easier to find the phone if it’s lost nearby. The feature was spotted in version 2024.04.08.621107892.2 of the Personal Safety app and might roll out more widely soon.

These updates show how Google is continuing to connect its apps, devices, and services to make them work better together. Whether you’re looking for trending content or trying to find your phone, Google is making small changes that can make a big difference in daily use.

Google seems to be working on a handy new feature for Pixel phones. In the Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2.1 update, some Pixel users have noticed a new shortcut on the lock screen — a thermometer icon. This icon is likely a shortcut for the built-in temperature sensor, which is currently only available on the Pixel 8 Pro.

Right now, the temperature sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro lets users check the temperature of objects. But Google has been working to get FDA approval so the phone can also measure body temperature. This lock screen shortcut could make it easier to use the feature quickly, especially if body temperature readings are added soon.

The shortcut appears where other lock screen tools like flashlight or camera are usually found. It’s expected to show up in Android 14’s next quarterly update, though it’s not officially released yet.

In addition to this, Android 15 could bring more lock screen changes. Google is testing the option to choose what shows on the bottom corners of the lock screen. That means Pixel users might be able to swap out the flashlight or camera shortcuts for other tools, like the temperature sensor or Google Wallet.

These changes are still being tested, but they suggest that Google wants to give users more control over how their lock screen works and looks.

Source/Via