Many Firefox users on Android are experiencing a glitch where the browser unexpectedly navigates back to the previous page while reading, often returning them to Google search results. This issue occurs after a page has fully loaded, with users reporting it happens approximately 50% to 70% of the time. The bug can cause Firefox to jump back two or three pages, disrupting browsing history. Standard troubleshooting methods have not resolved the issue, which appears linked to clicking links from Google search results. Mozilla's mobile engineering team is aware of the problem and is tracking it through a bug report on Bugzilla. Initial tests by Mozilla's Quality Assurance team did not replicate the issue, but many affected users are on Samsung Galaxy phones with Android 16 and One UI 8.0. The problem coincides with recent updates to Firefox, and users have found a temporary workaround by opening links in new tabs. Mozilla is encouraging users to test Firefox Nightly and Beta versions and is collecting logs from affected devices to investigate further.
Google plans to modify the sideloading process for apps on Android devices to enhance user safety and address app security concerns. The new process will introduce additional steps and warnings, emphasizing the benefits of apps verified through Google Play and requiring an active internet connection for certain verification checks. Users can still sideload apps without verification, but this option will come with extra prompts to inform them of the risks. Critics worry that these changes may inconvenience power users, while supporters believe they will promote safer habits among average consumers. The rollout of this updated sideloading process is expected to begin in select markets and may coincide with the next major Android release.
Minecraft is introducing an update that features uniquely designed baby farm animal mobs, including baby pigs, calves, baby chickens, baby ocelots, lambs, and baby rabbits. The update includes nine different wolf pups and eleven distinct kitten types, all with new textures, models, and single pixel eyes. Players can enjoy custom sounds for these animals and craftable name tags to personalize their experience. The update is available for preview in Minecraft's Bedrock Edition and as snapshots in Java Edition.
Google is refining the user experience of its Gemini app on Android devices by transitioning from a static prompt bar to a fluid, floating pill-shaped design. This update is currently available in beta versions and aims to address user feedback regarding visual clutter. The new design condenses input options into a sleek bar that expands when the keyboard is activated, hiding some tools behind a ‘+’ menu to streamline interactions. The redesign reflects Google’s commitment to making AI interactions more intuitive and aligns with broader trends in minimalism among AI interfaces. Additionally, the update could influence third-party integrations and may be part of a strategy to fully replace Google Assistant with Gemini by 2026. User reactions to the redesign are mixed, with some expressing excitement over the modern look while others are concerned about hidden features complicating usability.
Google is updating its Gemini app for Android to reduce visual clutter and enhance user engagement. An APK teardown indicates a redesign of the app’s input box from a static sheet to a dynamic, floating pill-shaped bar in version 16.51.52 beta. This floating bar expands when users start typing, improving one-handed operation on larger devices. The update also introduces a ‘Tools’ menu that consolidates options like image upload and voice input, streamlining workflows for power users. Additionally, hints of ‘Gemini Labs’ suggest an experimental section for users to test upcoming features. The redesign aims to make AI interactions feel more natural and accessible while addressing user feedback about previous designs. Mixed reactions to Gemini's automotive rollout indicate some praise for hands-free capabilities, though interface glitches remain a concern. User privacy is emphasized, with guides available for opting out of tracking. Feedback from beta testers suggests improved multitasking capabilities. The redesign aligns with Google’s broader AI strategy, emphasizing intuitive updates and competitive pressures in the AI market. Developers have noted similarities to past Google designs, and the potential rollout timeline is speculative, with expectations for a gesture-based interaction model. Overall, these changes position Gemini as a leading AI assistant, focusing on a decluttered interface and user-centric design.
Google’s Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 introduces a new blue block indicator to alert users when apps access their location, in addition to existing notifications for camera and microphone usage. Users can tap the indicator for a detailed overview of app permissions and take actions such as closing apps or adjusting settings. The beta version is available for testing on Google Pixel 6 devices and later, running the stable December 2025 update, and users can enroll in the Android Beta program to receive it.
NVIDIA has released a GeForce hotfix driver (version 581.94) to address performance issues for some users following the Windows 11 October update (KB5066835), which reportedly caused a decline in frame rates and overall game smoothness. The hotfix is based on the previous Game Ready driver (581.80) and aims to remedy slower performance in certain games. NVIDIA cautions that hotfix drivers undergo limited testing and are essentially beta versions, with a comprehensive fix expected in the next WHQL driver. Users with functioning systems may choose to wait for the official driver instead of rushing to update.
A new rideable mob called the camel husk has been introduced in Minecraft, which is a variant of the existing camel. The camel husk can carry two passengers, is passive, and can be tamed easily, but players may encounter spear-wielding husks that already own them. Additionally, a new hostile mob called the parcher, a variant of the desert skeleton, poses a challenge for players trying to secure a camel husk. Mojang is also testing a feature that allows all mounts to swim, enhancing exploration in the game. These updates are currently available for testing in Minecraft Java with snapshots enabled and will soon be available in Bedrock preview and beta versions.
Android Auto users have noted enhancements to Google Maps, including the introduction of a "Report" button for reporting incidents like crashes and traffic congestion from the dashboard. The Guidance Audio button has been moved to the app's settings to streamline the interface. The "suggested destinations" menu now remains compact until tapped, improving user control. However, mini-games previously available on Android Auto have disappeared, with Google shifting focus to larger games like Candy Crush Soda Saga and Angry Birds. Future plans include integrating AI technology through the Gemini initiative for a more intuitive in-car assistant.
