# 9to5Google Google news, Pixel, Android, Gemini, Home, more Page: Feed: --- ## [Gboard starts rolling out new ‘Emoji size’ setting](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/gboard-emoji-size-setting/) _2026-08-20 · Abner Li_ As the Pixel 11 series gets Rambler and Google’s new 3D emoji , Gboard is rolling out a new “Emoji size” setting to beta users. ## [Samsung confirms August 27 event for the ‘newest addition to the Galaxy S26 family’](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/samsung-august-event-galaxy-s26-family/) _2026-08-20 · Ben Schoon_ Samsung is teasing a new entrant to the Galaxy S26 series coming at an event on August 27, but it’s probably not going to be that exciting. ## [Google Pixel 11 gets dbrand’s full case lineup, including Tank for the first time \[Gallery\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/google-pixel-11-dbrand-cases/) _2026-08-19 · Sponsored Post_ Best known for its skins, dbrand has been building some of the best cases in the game in recent years and, for the Pixel 11 series, you can get every option for your new phone. Here’s what you should know. ## [Google Messages RCS breaks with ‘3100’ error for some, especially Galaxy switchers](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/google-messages-rcs-3100-error/) _2026-08-19 · Ben Schoon_ An issue with Google Messages appears to be breaking RCS for some users, with much of the problem tracing back to Samsung Galaxy devices. ## [Mid-week Android app deals and freebies: Last Day, Siralim, Ninja Hero Cats, Lovecraft’s Untold Stories, more](https://9to5toys.com/2026/08/19/mid-week-android-app-deals-8/) _2026-08-19 · 9to5Toys_ Best Buy’s 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold pre-order deals before delivery starts tomorrow ( more details here ), we have first Amazon price drop on the new Olive Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, up to $1,350 off 2026 Copilot+ PC and gaming laptops , LG’s most affordable 2026 OLED TV at $300 off , and Best Buy’s Anniversary Chromebook deals starting at $179 . The app deals, however, are waiting down… ## [Sony’s 2020 over-ear headphones to return for around $250 in new colors, leaks reveal \[U\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/sony-wh-1000xm4-re-release-leak/) _2026-08-19 · Ben Schoon_ A new leak has spilled the beans on an interesting move from Sony, as the company is preparing to re-launch its 2020 over-ear headphones, the WH-1000XM4. ## [Pixel 11 introduces unified ‘Pixel search,’ hides it in the drawer](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/pixel-11-search/) _2026-08-19 · Abner Li_ With the new phones this year, Google is introducing “Pixel search” as a “dedicated search companion designed to help you find personal information faster than ever.” ## [Gemini Live adds Deep Research as Notebooks come to AI Mode](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/gemini-app-ai-mode-study-tools/) _2026-08-19 · Abner Li_ With the back-to-school season underway, Google is introducing new study tools across the Gemini app and Search. ## [GeForce Now adds Firefox support five years after Chrome, now live](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/geforce-now-live-on-firefox/) _2026-08-19 · Andrew Romero_ Nvidia says it set a “high bar” for any browser integrating GeForce Now without added programs, and Firefox has seemingly met its standards as in-browser support for the game streaming service goes live. ## [Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra leaks in the worst ‘spot the difference’ game ever](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/19/samsung-galaxy-tab-s12-ultra-leak/) _2026-08-19 · Ben Schoon_ Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra is going to be a tame upgrade, at least in terms of fit and finish, as a leaked image reveals that the design is almost entirely unchanged. ## [Ship everywhere from one CLI (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/KhelgOR7B9hi) _2026-08-19 · **Sponsored**_ One codebase, hosted runners, encrypted credentials, and automated submissions across stores ## [Pixel Watch 1 not losing Google Health sleep, workout support](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/pixel-watch-1-support/) _2026-08-19 · Abner Li_ On Tuesday, Pixel Watch 1 owners encountered a Google Health error message about needing to update their wearable. Google has confirmed that this was a bug and that the original device remains supported. ## [Google ‘gradually’ rolling out Android’s ‘advanced’ sideloading ahead of developer verification](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/google-gradually-rolling-out-androids-advanced-sideloading-ahead-of-developer-verification/) _2026-08-18 · Ben Schoon_ Ahead of the start of developer verification next month, Google is now rolling out Android’s “advanced” flow for sideloading. ## [Claude can now send emails in Gmail, even without your approval](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/claude-can-now-send-emails-in-gmail-even-without-your-approval/) _2026-08-18 · Ben Schoon_ Anthropic’s Claude AI can now take a huge step in your email inbox, with the ability to not only interact with Gmail, but send emails on your behalf without asking you first. ## [Spotify rolling out ‘User Notes’ and ‘Running Mode’ features on Android – here’s what they do](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/spotify-rolling-out-user-notes-and-running-mode-features-heres-what-they-do/) _2026-08-18 · Ben Schoon_ Spotify is introducing two new features this week including a “Running Mode” that can automatically match songs and playlists to the pace of your workout, as well as “User Notes” which let you leave notes throughout your library to refer to later. ## [The Sideload 041: A vision of Pixels to come](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/the-sideload-041-a-vision-of-pixels-to-come/) _2026-08-18 · Will Sattelberg_ Welcome to episode 41 of The Sideload, a 9to5Google podcast. This week, Ben Schoon joins Will to discuss the future of Pixel, as Google’s Pixel 11 attempts to bridge the gap between always-accessible AI assistant and a more minimalist, digital wellbeing-friendly experience. They also dig into the world of AI ads, posters, and more, and wonder whether they’re doing far more harm than good to the… ## [Samsung makes warranty repairs easier with Android 17, advertises it with AI guinea pigs \[Gallery\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/samsung-warranty-software-update-android-17-one-ui-9/) _2026-08-18 · Ben Schoon_ Live on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series and presumably coming to more devices when Android 17 / One UI 9 rolls out more broadly, Samsung is showing off a new “Warranty and Care” menu that makes it a whole lot easier to deal with repairs and warranty claims on your Galaxy device. ## [Gemini in Chrome and auto browse roll out on Android in the US](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/gemini-chrome-android-us/) _2026-08-18 · Abner Li_ After previewing in May , Google has now finished rolling out Gemini in Chrome for Android users in the US. ## [Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Easy Delivery, Kingdom Rush Vengeance, Front Armies, more](https://9to5toys.com/2026/08/18/today-android-app-deals-free-easy-delivery-kingdom/) _2026-08-18 · 9to5Toys_ Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals is now ready to roll, including titles like Easy Delivery Co., Front Armies \[RTS\], Wall Of Insanity 2, 9th Dawn Remake RPG, Kingdom Rush Vengeance TD Game, and more. Alongside 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold – including extra $150 off select models at Amazon – as well as deals on the Olive Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 and a giant $750… ## [Pixel Screenshots updated with new date and app filters](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/pixel-screenshots-new-filters/) _2026-08-18 · Abner Li_ Following Journal and Recorder , the Pixel 11 update for the Screenshots app is here with the ability to filter “by date range and source.” ## [Deals: 1-day Galaxy sale – Tabs from $215, S26 cases 60% off, Olive Pixel Buds Pro 2, Galaxy Book $750 off, more](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/18/deals-galaxy-tabs-s26-accessories-olive-pixel-buds-pro-2/) _2026-08-18 · Justin Kahn_ As part of the ongoing Best Buy 60th Anniversary Sale , today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is headlined by a 1-day Samsung Galaxy sale offering Galaxy tabs from $215 , official Galaxy S26 series cases and accessories from $10 , and more. The sale also features a giant $750 discount on Samsung’s 16-inch Snapdragon X Elite touchscreen Galaxy Book and has ushered in Best Buy’s first deal on the new Olive… ## [Code Faster with Clear Tutorials (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/PzY7lyOleZY4) _2026-08-18 · **Sponsored**_ Short, step-by-step coding videos you can follow along ## [Google rolling out Android 17 QPR1 Beta 9 for Pixel](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/android-17-qpr1-beta-9-pixel/) _2026-08-17 · Abner Li_ The Android 17 QPR1 preview is surprisingly still active as Google today released Beta 9. This follows a big Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 on Friday. ## [Monday’s Android app deals and freebies: Demon Castle, Deus Ex GO, SENTINEL 519, GNOSIA, more](https://9to5toys.com/2026/08/17/monday-android-app-deals-free-demon-castle-deus-ex-go/) _2026-08-17 · 9to5Toys_ Your Monday afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals is now ready to roll, including titles like Demon Castle Story, Deus Ex GO, Hitman GO, SENTINEL 519: SAGA – GENESIS, Sands of Salzaar, Laser Tanks: Pixel RPG, GNOSIA, FrogBoy, and more. Best Buy’s massive 60th Anniversary Sale is now in full swing with deep deals on TVs, Android phones, and 10x rewards points, as well as 20% off… ## [Google hires former Gmail lead to be Chrome’s new VP of Product](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/chrome-new-vp-product/) _2026-08-17 · Abner Li_ Google has hired Jacob Bank as VP of Product for Chrome. The announcement was made today, with Bank previously working at Google for six years. ## [YouTube now counts video views immediately, ‘from the very first frame’](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/youtube-view-counts-change/) _2026-08-17 · Ben Schoon_ Starting next week, YouTube will change how view counts on a video are measured, with a view now being registered immediately as a viewer starts watching a video. ## [Google just bought a bunch of Spirit Airlines data for AI training](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/google-just-bought-a-bunch-of-spirit-airlines-data-for-ai-training/) _2026-08-17 · Ben Schoon_ As the AI race continues to hunt for new data to use for AI training, Google has just purchased a huge dump of old data from the now-defunct Spirit Airlines to be “helpful” in training its AI models. ## [Find Hub for Wear OS adds very basic ‘Find people’ app](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/find-hub-people-wear-os/) _2026-08-17 · Abner Li_ Google is rolling out an update to Find Hub on Wear OS that adds a “Find people” app to your watch. The experience was previously just for your devices. ## [Samsung Galaxy design might ditch its ‘core identity’ for a Pixel camera bar – it needs to](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/samsung-galaxy-google-pixel-camera-bar-rumors/) _2026-08-17 · Ben Schoon_ New evidence suggests that Samsung is possibly, maybe, potentially looking to move away from the vertical camera design on Galaxy phones that it recently called its “core identity” for something closer to a Pixel camera bar, and I seriously hope it happens. ## [Pixel Recorder update brings new Pixel 11 app icon](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/pixel-recorder-new-icon/) _2026-08-17 · Abner Li_ Following the Journal app last week, Google is rolling out an update to Pixel Recorder that brings the new app icon to older devices. ## [Deals: Best Buy 60th Anniversary Sale, Pixelsnap cases 20% off, Copilot+ PCs up to $1,350 off, Nothing Headphone (a), more](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/deals-best-buy-anniversary-sale-nothing-headphone-a/) _2026-08-17 · Justin Kahn_ Joining the massive 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold pre-order deals, today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is headlined by a host of new discounts. Not only is Best Buy now offering 20% off all of Google’s new Pixelsnap cases , but it is also now delivering some seriously deep deals on Copilot+ PCs, gaming laptops, and more at up to $1,350 off as well as OLED TVs from $700 and this 58-inch model at just… ## [Google says Pixel 11’s new MediaTek modem is ‘faster and more power efficient’](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/google-pixel-11-mediatek-modem/) _2026-08-17 · Ben Schoon_ The Pixel 11 series brings Google’s updated Tensor G6 chipset that, while not quite as big of an upgrade as we expected, still brings a big new change in a MediaTek-made modem that Google has some claims about. ## [Home of the Agentic Pull Request (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/3gibEj1J6NiP) _2026-08-17 · **Sponsored**_ CLI-first, TUI-ready toolkits and a moshscript installer — join the waitlist ## [Samsung is reportedly building an even wider Galaxy Z Fold 9 for video viewing](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-9-wider-design-video-report/) _2026-08-17 · Ben Schoon_ The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is an absolute smash hit and, with that in mind, Samsung is reportedly doubling down on the form factor with a second wide device now in the works for the Galaxy Z Fold 9 series, making for a total of five new foldables in 2027. ## [LineageOS support finally comes to the Galaxy S22 series](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/17/lineageos-support-finally-comes-to-the-galaxy-s22-series/) _2026-08-17 · Damien Wilde_ With about 6 months left in the “official” support window, it’s great to see that LineageOS support has finally come to the Samsung Galaxy S22. ## [Final UI for Googlebook ‘Desktop Camera’ app revealed \[Gallery\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/16/googlebooks-desktop-camera/) _2026-08-17 · Abner Li_ Ahead of the Googlebook launch this fall, we now have a full look at the Desktop Camera application. ## [Pixel 11 Pro’s ‘HiLight’ is another half-baked feature burdened by bad first impressions](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/16/google-pixel-11-hilight/) _2026-08-16 · Ben Schoon_ There are a few trends that have shown up on Pixel phones over the years, but one of the most frustrating is that Google keeps launching half-baked features on its devices that take way too long to reach their potential, just to be taken away afterwards. “HiLight” is the worst example of that to date. This issue of 9to5Google Weekender is a part of our newsletter that highlights the biggest Google… ## [Face Unlock on Pixel 11 series works better in low light](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/16/pixel-11-face-unlock/) _2026-08-16 · Abner Li_ Since the Pixel 8 , Google’s camera-based face recognition has supported Android’s highest biometric standard. The Pixel 11 series now offers Face Unlock that “recognizes you more easily in low light.” ## [Pixel 11 ads show a mysterious screen-equipped tracker that’s not Pixel Watch 5 or Fitbit Air \[Gallery\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/15/google-pixel-11-ad-unknown-fitbit-tracker/) _2026-08-15 · Ben Schoon_ Google might have another fitness tracker in the works, as a pair of new ads online show off a mysterious little pebble that’s neither a Fitbit Air nor a Pixel Watch 5 – but is it anything at all? ## [Android 17 QPR2 adds App lock to Pixel](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/android-17-qpr2-app-lock/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ Besides visual changes, Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 also introduces a native App lock feature to Pixel devices. ## [Android 17 QPR2 brings system blur to the Pixel lockscreen](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/android-17-qpr2-pixel-lockscreen-blur/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ The interface changes in Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 continue with more blur for the Pixel lockscreen. ## [Here’s everything new in Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 \[Gallery\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/android-17-qpr2-beta-3-everything-new/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ The preview for the December release continues today with a surprising Friday launch of Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 . ## [Android 17 QPR2 lets you customize Pixel Quick Settings layout](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/customize-pixel-quick-settings/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ The surprise Friday drop of Android 17 QPR2 lets you customize the layout of the Quick Settings shade on Pixel. This editor was introduced in the latest Android Canary build for a relatively short turnaround. ## [Android 17 QPR2 greatly expands Dynamic Color theming on Pixel](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/android-17-qpr2-dynamic-color/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ With Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3’s surprise Friday drop, Google is introducing expanded Dynamic Color theming options for Pixel devices. ## [Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 for Pixel rolling out](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/android-17-qpr2-beta-3-pixel/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ Following the last release at the start of last week, Google is rolling out Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 for Pixel devices in a rare Friday drop. So far, it is the biggest update this cycle. ## [Pixelated 112: Mid by Google](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/pixelated-112-mid-by-google/) _2026-08-14 · Will Sattelberg_ Welcome to Pixelated episode 112. This week, Damien, Abner, and Will share their early impressions of the Pixel 11 series, offer a full breakdown of the actual Made by Google event, and share some big picture thoughts on the future of Pixel hardware inspired by this HiLight ad . Enjoy the episode? You can listen to our brand new weekly members-only Pixelated Pro bonus episode by signing up for… ## [Friday’s best Android app deals and freebies: Dragon Prana, Soul Historica, Conquistadorio, more](https://9to5toys.com/2026/08/14/friday-best-android-app-deals-2/) _2026-08-14 · 9to5Toys_ Friday afternoon’s lineup of the best Android game and app deals is now ready to roll, including titles like RPG Dragon Prana, RPG Ruinverse, RPG Infinite Links, Legend of The Moon2, RPG Soul Historica, TLOTS: Gold Edition, Conquistadorio, and more. Be sure to dive into the best pre-order deals on Pixel 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold, including enhanced trade values, up to $350 gift cards,… ## [Best Pixel 11 cases: Pixelsnap-ready, metal, protective, customizable, deals, more](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/best-new-pixel-11-cases/) _2026-08-14 · Justin Kahn_ The Pixel 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold pre-order deals are still flying but many of our favorite case makers are now ready to wrap your new device up in style and protection for delivery day. While we are already tracking solid 20% discounts on the new official Google Pixelsnap cases, the all-new customizable Grip Case from Dbrand has also arrived with a far more diverse range of designs… ## [Pixel 11 Pro Fold is stuck as the fourth-best foldable, and that’s a good thing for you \[Gallery\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/pixel-11-pro-fold-is-stuck-as-the-fourth-best-foldable-and-thats-a-good-thing-for-you-gallery/) _2026-08-14 · Ben Schoon_ Google came back onto the foldable scene with splash in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, but a couple of years later, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold is launching in a totally different market. There are several welcome improvements on this device that make it a foldable I actually want to carry, but I think it’s going to be relegated to being the fourth-best foldable mass markets can buy – but that’s really a good… ## [Pixel Journal update brings cloud-based Private AI Compute, UI tweaks, & more](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/pixel-journal-ai-update/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ With the launch of the Pixel 11, Google is rolling out a handful of updates to the Journal app that are already appearing on older devices. ## [Google Health 5.06 rolling out to control the Coach in Today tab](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/google-health-5-06-release-notes/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ Google Health 5.06 is rolling out on Android and iOS to let you control what Health Coach guidance appears in the Today tab. ## [Gemini app gets 3.7 Flash & setting to turn off corner media watermarks](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/gemini-app-3-7-flash/) _2026-08-14 · Abner Li_ When Gemini 3.7 Flash launched yesterday morning , Google said it was just powering the Spark agent in the Gemini app. The updated model is now available for chats. ## [Google’s best Pixel case in years still isn’t good enough to forget the fabric ones \[Gallery\]](https://9to5google.com/2026/08/14/google-pixel-11-cases-opinion/) _2026-08-14 · Ben Schoon_ One of my favorite things about the first few generations of Pixel were Google’s official cases, but that’s not been true in recent years. This year brings Google’s best official Pixel case in years (and it’s worst), but I just can’t stop yearning for what was lost.