gadgets

AppWizard
April 16, 2025
Google is enhancing its Home app to simplify smart device management with user interface modifications. Upcoming updates will include a dedicated QR scanner in the Devices tab and a search bar in the Favorites section. In December, Google began a Public Preview test for the "Help me create" feature, which uses Gemini AI to help users automate their smart home systems by defining a Starter, Condition, and Action. Additionally, a separate Public Preview test for "Gemini in Assistant" aims to improve responses for Nest devices, allowing users to interrupt or request clarification from the Assistant.
AppWizard
April 15, 2025
Google has released an update to its April Play Services and Store changelog, introducing an automatic reboot function for Android phones that have been locked for three consecutive days to enhance data encryption. The initial batch of April updates included battery life improvements and a security patch for Pixel devices. The update also features optimizations for device connectivity and a minor enhancement to the "Ask a question" feature in the Play Store. Additionally, the April update includes the 2025 security update for Pixel devices, addressing camera issues and screen dimming problems reported by users of the Pixel 6 and 7 series. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has been introduced, featuring a 6.8-inch display and a commitment to seven years of updates.
TrendTechie
April 15, 2025
Users in Russia are experiencing disruptions with RuTracker, the largest Russian-language torrent tracker, with complaints reaching approximately 5,600 by the evening of April 15. A spike of 1,982 issues was reported between 18:16 and 19:16, with users facing connection issues and timeouts. Complaints are widespread, particularly from major cities like Saint Petersburg and Moscow, but the cause of the disruptions is unclear. Additionally, Estonia has reported systemic radio interference from the Saint Petersburg area affecting satellite navigation systems, while ground-based equipment remains functional. There was also a significant outage of WhatsApp affecting users in various regions. Furthermore, Apple Inc. is reportedly considering re-entering the Russian market by establishing parallel imports through countries with lower customs tariffs.
Winsage
April 14, 2025
Microsoft is considering halting security updates for Windows 10, which could lead to increased cybersecurity risks and environmental issues due to the potential disposal of millions of functional computers. Security updates will remain available for an additional year at a cost, similar to extended support options previously offered to businesses. There is a call for Microsoft to provide free security updates for Windows 10 as long as it remains widely used, to promote sustainability and reduce the throwaway culture associated with technology.
AppWizard
April 10, 2025
Google Play services v25.13 introduces updates to improve battery life and connectivity across various Android devices, including Android Auto, PCs, phones, TVs, and Wear OS devices. Google Wallet now allows users to add nicknames to their passes. The Android System Intelligence v.23 update includes logging for Adaptive Sound and code optimization for Smart Dictation. The Google Play Store will implement verified badges for select VPN applications to enhance user trust and safety.
Winsage
March 25, 2025
Mark has a 30-year career in technology journalism, contributing over 3,500 articles to PCWorld in the last ten years. He has also written for PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science, and Electronic Buyers' News. He shared the Jesse H. Neal Award for breaking news. Recently, he donated several dozen Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs due to his office reaching capacity for tech gadgets.
AppWizard
March 25, 2025
The Amazon Big Spring Sale has started, coinciding with the Samsung spring sale event. Notable deals include Anker’s 25K mAh power bank at an all-time low, discounted Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, the new Kindle Colorsoft at its best price ever, and Samsung’s Smart Monitors discounted by up to 0. In the Google Play offers, standout titles include "Children of Morta," "Front Armies," and "Star Survivor."
Winsage
March 24, 2025
Amazon has reported that the Surface Laptop 7 is frequently returned by customers. Mojang has introduced a "Vibrant Visuals" update for Minecraft, enhancing the game's aesthetics while keeping its gameplay mechanics intact. Microsoft is developing a Steam filter for the Xbox app on PC, suggesting deeper integration with Steam. HP announced 25 new PCs at its Amplify conference, including the EliteStudio 8 AiO G1i and the OmniBook 7 Aero 13. The MSI Claw 8 AI+ gaming handheld received a score of 4.5 out of 5 for its performance and features.
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