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Google I/O 2024

Google App 'AI Mode' For Android Lets Users 'Talk' Directly to Search, Multimodal Capabilities Available
AppWizard
December 5, 2024

Google App ‘AI Mode’ For Android Lets Users ‘Talk’ Directly to Search, Multimodal Capabilities Available

Google is developing an 'AI Mode' for its Search app on Android, allowing users to interact in a conversational manner. This feature, discovered in an APK teardown, will enable voice inputs and the submission of photos and videos, creating a more intuitive search experience. The AI Mode will be accessible through a dedicated tab represented by a 'wink' icon in the app. This development follows Google's earlier integration of generative AI into Search, including the Search Generative Experience and AI Overviews, which have been refined based on user feedback.
Google Play Store could soon highlight apps optimized for tablets and cars
AppWizard
October 7, 2024

Google Play Store could soon highlight apps optimized for tablets and cars

Vehicles are increasingly equipped with tablet interfaces that replace traditional buttons, serving as command centers for various functions and applications like navigation and music streaming. Recent findings from an APK Teardown of Google Play Store version 43.0.18-31 indicate a new feature that helps users discover apps optimized for automotive use, stating, "This app was designed for tablets and is compatible with your car." This initiative may be part of Google's Car-ready mobile apps program, introduced at Google I/O 2024, which categorizes apps into three tiers: - Tier 1: Car Differentiated - Apps designed for seamless operation across various car hardware, adapting to different modes and screens. - Tier 2: Car Optimized - Existing automotive apps that function well on center stack displays with some automotive-specific features. - Tier 3: Car Ready - Apps compatible with larger screens for use while stationary, requiring minimal adjustments. The upcoming applications may fall under the Tier-3 "Car Ready" program, aimed at facilitating the integration of tablet-optimized apps into vehicles and encouraging developers to create effective applications for both tablet and parked car environments.
Google Play Store could soon highlight apps built for tablets and cars (APK teardown)
AppWizard
October 7, 2024

Google Play Store could soon highlight apps built for tablets and cars (APK teardown)

The Google Play Store will soon highlight applications optimized for larger screens, particularly tablets, and those compatible with automotive systems, as part of the Google Car-ready mobile apps program announced at Google I/O 2024. This program aims to extend tablet app functionality to car infotainment systems for use when parked. An APK teardown of Google Play Store version 43.0.18-31 reveals that apps designed for tablets and compatible with automotive systems will be clearly labeled. The Car-ready program categorizes applications into three tiers: Car differentiated, Car optimized, and Car ready, with the goal of facilitating the use of tablet-optimized applications in parked vehicles. Google will review these apps for safety and compatibility before distribution to vehicles with Google services. Initially focusing on video, gaming, and web browsing, the program plans to expand to additional categories in the future.
Google offers developers a way to remotely test apps on Samsung phones
AppWizard
August 7, 2024

Google offers developers a way to remotely test apps on Samsung phones

During the Google I/O 2024 event, Google introduced early access to its Android Device Streaming service, allowing developers to remotely test applications on Samsung, OPPO, and Xiaomi smartphones. The tool enables secure access to various Android devices for app testing before launch on the Play Store. Supported Samsung devices include the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S9, and Galaxy Tab S9+, with capabilities for testing on foldable phones in different orientations. After testing, Google performs a data wipe and factory reset on the devices. The process is integrated within Android Studio, and Google plans to add more physical devices for testing. Developers can sign up for the Early Access Program to participate.
Google Wallet could soon be your app for storing everything – here's how it will work
AppWizard
July 16, 2024

Google Wallet could soon be your app for storing everything – here’s how it will work

Google Wallet app on Android will soon allow users to manage and access various types of documents, including insurance papers, library cards, concert tickets, student IDs, and resident permits. AI will be used to identify document types and convert images into text. Documents can be stored in normal or private categories, with biometric authentication required for the private folder. The app can automatically identify business cards and driver licenses, with the option to manually identify unrecognized documents. Additional information can be added to scanned documents if needed. These features are not yet live in the Android app but are expected to be available soon.
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