#Apps #Google
Google app gains darker dark theme
9To5Google
Earlier we saw that Google is starting to test out pure black theme on the web, and now the company seems to be testing out darker dark theme for the Android app too.
This time it's not a pure black theme, instead it's a darker gray (#171717, #202124 currently on stable version) When searching for results, the upper part is also darker now. This change come directly with the beta version of the app.
Download (13.8 beta):
Play Store | APKMirror
Google app gains darker dark theme
9To5Google
Earlier we saw that Google is starting to test out pure black theme on the web, and now the company seems to be testing out darker dark theme for the Android app too.
This time it's not a pure black theme, instead it's a darker gray (#171717, #202124 currently on stable version) When searching for results, the upper part is also darker now. This change come directly with the beta version of the app.
Download (13.8 beta):
Play Store | APKMirror
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#News #Pay #StopRussianAggression
Apple Pay and Google Pay no longer works in Russia
Jason Corcoran (Twitter)
A lot of stuff have happened over the past few days. More and more companies are starting to take actions against Russia, and recently both Apple and Google Pay have started to apply restriction to some Russian banks.
The two companies have already restricted transaction for several Russian bank cards, including VTB Group, Sovcombank, Novikombank, Promsvyazbank and Otkritie, which mean citizens won't be able to do any payment with them. As a result, those people who rely on one of these two services are required to withdraw cash from ATMs, and causing ATMs to even run out of money.
*Could the year 2022 be any worse? COVID-19 pandemic is still there, Ukraine Russia conflict currently ongoing, hopefully this don't trigger a bigger war, we wish everyone can live happily, peacefully and most importantly, healthily.
Apple Pay and Google Pay no longer works in Russia
Jason Corcoran (Twitter)
A lot of stuff have happened over the past few days. More and more companies are starting to take actions against Russia, and recently both Apple and Google Pay have started to apply restriction to some Russian banks.
The two companies have already restricted transaction for several Russian bank cards, including VTB Group, Sovcombank, Novikombank, Promsvyazbank and Otkritie, which mean citizens won't be able to do any payment with them. As a result, those people who rely on one of these two services are required to withdraw cash from ATMs, and causing ATMs to even run out of money.
*Could the year 2022 be any worse? COVID-19 pandemic is still there, Ukraine Russia conflict currently ongoing, hopefully this don't trigger a bigger war, we wish everyone can live happily, peacefully and most importantly, healthily.
Twitter
Jason Corcoran
Apple Pay and Google Pay no longer work on Moscow's metro system, leading to long queues as people fumble about for cash
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#Pixel #Pixel6a #PixelWatch
Google Pixel Watch and Pixel 6a spotted in inventory system, hinting at retail launch soon
Android Police
Google seems to be ready to launch Pixel Watch and Pixel 6a at a later date soon, as a source told Android Police that both of these devices have been added to a US carrier's inventory system.
Pixel Watch is reported to have the codename "rohan." The database suggests it will be sold in gray, black, and gold three color variants and come with 32GB of storage, same as Apple Watch Series 7. It is also spotted that the carrier doesn't sell non-cellular smartwatches, hinting that the watch would have eSIM connectivity.
Besides, Pixel 6a is in the listing too, it will come with the codename "bluejay," and available in black, white, and green three colors as well. The device is set to come with a 128GB of storage.
It's likely that both of these devices could be launching in this May with the Google I/O event, but these aren't confirmed yet and we don't know about the pricing too. so take it as a grain of salt for now.
Google Pixel Watch and Pixel 6a spotted in inventory system, hinting at retail launch soon
Android Police
Google seems to be ready to launch Pixel Watch and Pixel 6a at a later date soon, as a source told Android Police that both of these devices have been added to a US carrier's inventory system.
Pixel Watch is reported to have the codename "rohan." The database suggests it will be sold in gray, black, and gold three color variants and come with 32GB of storage, same as Apple Watch Series 7. It is also spotted that the carrier doesn't sell non-cellular smartwatches, hinting that the watch would have eSIM connectivity.
Besides, Pixel 6a is in the listing too, it will come with the codename "bluejay," and available in black, white, and green three colors as well. The device is set to come with a 128GB of storage.
It's likely that both of these devices could be launching in this May with the Google I/O event, but these aren't confirmed yet and we don't know about the pricing too. so take it as a grain of salt for now.
Android Police
Google Pixel Watch pops up alongside Pixel 6a in carrier inventory system
Colors and storage capacities, too
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#YTMusic
YouTube Music desktop web let you switch between song & video on the Now Playing page
9To5Google
YouTube Music mobile app has already been offering a switcher to let you switch between playing audio or video, and that's arriving for more users on the web version.
If you preferred just listening to the music, just click on "Song" option in the switcher. You can also easily switch back to play the music video anytime you want, the playback position will be retained so your listening experience won't get interrupted.
Same as the mobile app, the switcher is only available to use if you are a Premium subscriber.
YouTube Music desktop web let you switch between song & video on the Now Playing page
9To5Google
YouTube Music mobile app has already been offering a switcher to let you switch between playing audio or video, and that's arriving for more users on the web version.
If you preferred just listening to the music, just click on "Song" option in the switcher. You can also easily switch back to play the music video anytime you want, the playback position will be retained so your listening experience won't get interrupted.
Same as the mobile app, the switcher is only available to use if you are a Premium subscriber.
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#Apps #Recorder
Google Recorder 3.5 bring in dynamic color support and added Quick Settings tile
9To5Google
The smart voice recorder by Google got a minor update.
If you are using Android 12 on your Pixel, then you will find that there is dynamic color support which follow your device wallpaper accent color (screenshot attached is from Android 11).
The rewind and skip buttons are larger with the play/pause button becoming circle-shaped. The top part of the toolbar background now matched the bottom one, separating from the audio waveform. Audio and Trannoscript switcher is larger with the position being moved slightly upwards.
There is also a new quick settings tile, which allows you to start and stop the recording. When you start recording, you will also noticed the pause button is in square-shaped and the time of recording is written on top. Lastly, you can now let the app change light and theme automatically according to your system.
The update isn't widely rollout for now.
Download (3.5):
Play Store
Google Recorder 3.5 bring in dynamic color support and added Quick Settings tile
9To5Google
The smart voice recorder by Google got a minor update.
If you are using Android 12 on your Pixel, then you will find that there is dynamic color support which follow your device wallpaper accent color (screenshot attached is from Android 11).
The rewind and skip buttons are larger with the play/pause button becoming circle-shaped. The top part of the toolbar background now matched the bottom one, separating from the audio waveform. Audio and Trannoscript switcher is larger with the position being moved slightly upwards.
There is also a new quick settings tile, which allows you to start and stop the recording. When you start recording, you will also noticed the pause button is in square-shaped and the time of recording is written on top. Lastly, you can now let the app change light and theme automatically according to your system.
The update isn't widely rollout for now.
Download (3.5):
Play Store
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#Workspace #Forms
Google Forms will soon works better with your documents & presentation slides
Google Workspace Updates
Google Forms is a great tool to gather people's feedback or opinion and later make it as a data report for your project. Well, Google had added some sprinkle to it, making it works better in Google Docs, Slides & Drawing.
For a long time, you were required to copy the chart manually and paste it at the place you want. With the upcoming tool, you can just embedded it and when there's update made to the chart, it's as simple as clicking on the "Update" button and done. That's mean you no longer need to copy the updated chart from the form and later paste it again in your documents.
It will be rolling out to everyone, including personal Google accounts over the next two weeks.
Google Forms will soon works better with your documents & presentation slides
Google Workspace Updates
Google Forms is a great tool to gather people's feedback or opinion and later make it as a data report for your project. Well, Google had added some sprinkle to it, making it works better in Google Docs, Slides & Drawing.
For a long time, you were required to copy the chart manually and paste it at the place you want. With the upcoming tool, you can just embedded it and when there's update made to the chart, it's as simple as clicking on the "Update" button and done. That's mean you no longer need to copy the updated chart from the form and later paste it again in your documents.
It will be rolling out to everyone, including personal Google accounts over the next two weeks.
#Google #Assistant
Google is sunsetting Assistant Snapshot soon
9To5Google
Google Snapshot is launched back in 2018 to replace Google Now, and after servicing for 3 years+, Google has decided to shut down the service.
Basically Snapshot shows your calendar events, weathers and other personalise cards in one page. Google has informed users about it in the app, and they have also released a support page which tell users where to look for all these information in existing Google products. Google didn't announce a specific date to shut down the service, but soon users won't be able to use it anymore.
Adios Snapshot.
Google is sunsetting Assistant Snapshot soon
9To5Google
Google Snapshot is launched back in 2018 to replace Google Now, and after servicing for 3 years+, Google has decided to shut down the service.
Basically Snapshot shows your calendar events, weathers and other personalise cards in one page. Google has informed users about it in the app, and they have also released a support page which tell users where to look for all these information in existing Google products. Google didn't announce a specific date to shut down the service, but soon users won't be able to use it anymore.
Adios Snapshot.
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#Apps #Chrome
Chrome 99 released to stable channel
Upcoming Chrome 100 release date: 29 Mar 2022
Android Police
What's New:
• PC: Uninstall web apps via Windows settings
• PC: New download shortcuts in toolbar
• PC: Web apps can use system date picker
• PC: Handwriting recognition API
• PC: Manifest v2 going away, less efficient for ad blockers to work
• CSS Cascasde Layers support
• Web developers can easily implement dark mode support right in the web app manifest
* Last 2-digit Chrome version release
Download:
Play Store | APKMirror
Chrome 99 released to stable channel
Upcoming Chrome 100 release date: 29 Mar 2022
Android Police
What's New:
• PC: Uninstall web apps via Windows settings
• PC: New download shortcuts in toolbar
• PC: Web apps can use system date picker
• PC: Handwriting recognition API
• PC: Manifest v2 going away, less efficient for ad blockers to work
• CSS Cascasde Layers support
• Web developers can easily implement dark mode support right in the web app manifest
* Last 2-digit Chrome version release
Download:
Play Store | APKMirror
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#ChromeOS
You can soon disable Chrome OS from automatically updating
9To5Google
Chrome OS users will soon be able to disable automatic update by themselves after a long time.
There's a flag (
Chrome OS Flex is probably why Google planned to add this option, it is a project by Google which let you install Chrome OS on any PC. Anyway even with that disabled, the Chrome browser will continue to update as usual so you still be able to get new features & security update for the browser at least.
You can soon disable Chrome OS from automatically updating
9To5Google
Chrome OS users will soon be able to disable automatic update by themselves after a long time.
There's a flag (
chrome://flags/#consumer-auto-update-toggle-allowed) which will add a toggle to the Settings app and let users choose whether to update automatically or not. When proceeding to disable it, you will see a pop-up window with explanations (Your device may no longer work properly, and you may experience security and performance issues). and also options to confirm or cancel the change.Chrome OS Flex is probably why Google planned to add this option, it is a project by Google which let you install Chrome OS on any PC. Anyway even with that disabled, the Chrome browser will continue to update as usual so you still be able to get new features & security update for the browser at least.
9to5Google
Chrome OS will soon let you disable automatic updates
Google will soon offer Chrome OS device owners a bit more control over their devices, by letting you turn off automatic updates.
#Workspace #Gmail
Google Workspace will now notify you commenter's email address in notification
Google Workspace Updates
Spams are annoying and everyone hates it. Google has once again stand up to deal with it, by adding the commenter's email address in the comment notifications.
Earlier if someone mentioned you in a comment in a Google Workspace document, you will be notified in your inbox with the commenter's name and the comment itself. Soon you will get to see the commenter's email address too, which will help you identify whether it's a spam from someone else you don't know or not.
This will be rolling out to everyone over the next two weeks.
Google Workspace will now notify you commenter's email address in notification
Google Workspace Updates
Spams are annoying and everyone hates it. Google has once again stand up to deal with it, by adding the commenter's email address in the comment notifications.
Earlier if someone mentioned you in a comment in a Google Workspace document, you will be notified in your inbox with the commenter's name and the comment itself. Soon you will get to see the commenter's email address too, which will help you identify whether it's a spam from someone else you don't know or not.
This will be rolling out to everyone over the next two weeks.
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#News #Pixel6
Google is awarding $10 coupon to those who bought Pixel 6 unit from the Google Store
If you have bought a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro from the Google Store in US, do check your inbox as you might get a chance to receive a $10 coupon code from Google.
In the email, Google is recommending you to buy their accessories for the Pixel 6 model you have. The first suggestion is their official case which cost $29 per case, by using the coupon code you can get it for just $19. The following suggestions are Pixel Buds A-Series, Pixel Stand 2nd gen and other Qi-certified devices.
You are not limited with only those options though. You can use it for any items that are available on the Google Store. The offer will last till March 16, so you need to react fast if you plan to use the coupon.
Google is awarding $10 coupon to those who bought Pixel 6 unit from the Google Store
If you have bought a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro from the Google Store in US, do check your inbox as you might get a chance to receive a $10 coupon code from Google.
In the email, Google is recommending you to buy their accessories for the Pixel 6 model you have. The first suggestion is their official case which cost $29 per case, by using the coupon code you can get it for just $19. The following suggestions are Pixel Buds A-Series, Pixel Stand 2nd gen and other Qi-certified devices.
You are not limited with only those options though. You can use it for any items that are available on the Google Store. The offer will last till March 16, so you need to react fast if you plan to use the coupon.
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#Google
Google Search experimenting new layout for categories section
A few months ago, we saw Google testing out a new look for Search on desktop, and recently Google is now trying to move the categories section to the top right corner.
Currently the search categories are displayed under the search bar with favicon. The new experiment moves this section right next to the search bar. On most desktop screen, you will probably only get to see up to two categories and a More option, zooming out will show you more categories and the maximum amount is 5, just like the current design offers.
This is just a server side experiment for now, but I guess Google will just end up pulling back the idea. In my opinion, I don't think it's a great change after all.
Follow @PixelHubUpdates
Google Search experimenting new layout for categories section
A few months ago, we saw Google testing out a new look for Search on desktop, and recently Google is now trying to move the categories section to the top right corner.
Currently the search categories are displayed under the search bar with favicon. The new experiment moves this section right next to the search bar. On most desktop screen, you will probably only get to see up to two categories and a More option, zooming out will show you more categories and the maximum amount is 5, just like the current design offers.
This is just a server side experiment for now, but I guess Google will just end up pulling back the idea. In my opinion, I don't think it's a great change after all.
Follow @PixelHubUpdates
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#ChromeOS
Chrome OS 99 bring improvements to Nearby Share, palm rejection and more
9To5Google
Shortly after the Chrome browser is updated to version 99, Chrome OS is also getting an update too.
This update brings palm rejection improvement to devices with touch-screen support, which will be able to detect multiple finger touches better. In Overview mode, you can create a new desk by dragging window to the top, a maximum amount of 8 desks can be created, you can also use Shift + Search + (1~8) to navigate across multiple desks.
Nearby Share got the ability to scan in the background, so you are no longer required to open high-visibility mode in order to share stuff with Chrome OS devices. The Files app is also now a System Web App (SWA), nothing has change in functionality though. Lastly, the feature to record five-second videos and share it as GIFs is available too.
Chrome OS 99 bring improvements to Nearby Share, palm rejection and more
9To5Google
Shortly after the Chrome browser is updated to version 99, Chrome OS is also getting an update too.
This update brings palm rejection improvement to devices with touch-screen support, which will be able to detect multiple finger touches better. In Overview mode, you can create a new desk by dragging window to the top, a maximum amount of 8 desks can be created, you can also use Shift + Search + (1~8) to navigate across multiple desks.
Nearby Share got the ability to scan in the background, so you are no longer required to open high-visibility mode in order to share stuff with Chrome OS devices. The Files app is also now a System Web App (SWA), nothing has change in functionality though. Lastly, the feature to record five-second videos and share it as GIFs is available too.
9to5Google
Chrome OS 99 rolling out: Faster desk creation, improved palm rejection & Nearby Share
With Google now releasing major Chromebook updates every four weeks, some releases are more significant than others. Chrome OS 99 adds a...
#Pixel #Pixel6a #PixelWatch
Google Pixel 6a & Pixel Watch release could be delayed till late July
Jon Prosser
A few days ago, it is spotted that both Pixel 6a & Pixel Watch appeared in a carrier inventory system, which hinted Google will be announcing both these devices soon to the public, but apparently it might not be the case.
Jon Prosser, which is rarely wrong about device launch date, mentioned that his source told him due to the ongoing chip shortage issue, the Pixel 6a has been pushed back till late July. Although the Pixel Watch is still planned for release in May 26, but his source believe that will be delayed as well.
Google Pixel 6a & Pixel Watch release could be delayed till late July
Jon Prosser
A few days ago, it is spotted that both Pixel 6a & Pixel Watch appeared in a carrier inventory system, which hinted Google will be announcing both these devices soon to the public, but apparently it might not be the case.
Jon Prosser, which is rarely wrong about device launch date, mentioned that his source told him due to the ongoing chip shortage issue, the Pixel 6a has been pushed back till late July. Although the Pixel Watch is still planned for release in May 26, but his source believe that will be delayed as well.
Twitter
Jon Prosser
as i mentioned in today’s show: i am hearing that google has delayed the pixel 6a until late july. (chip shortage) pixel watch is still may 26th, but the source believes it could soon be pushed as well. youtu.be/vzLG0ak8I8A
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#News
Dieter Bohn leave The Verge, joining Google on the Platforms & Ecosystems team
The Verge | Dieter Bohn | YouTube Video
Dieter Bohn, previously the executive editor at The Verge, will be joining Google and work on the Platforms & Ecosystems team.
He mentioned that he will be working on software platforms like Android and Chrome, which are some of the most used consumers product owned by Google. Hiroshi Lockheimer, SVP of the team, had sincerely welcomed Bohn to join the Google's family.
Bohn is one of the founding editorial team at The Verge, he has been working over there since 2011. Besides, he also used to be the editor-in-chief of Smartphone Experts. Anyway, after nearly 20 years of hard work in the tech media, he has finally got the opportunity to work at Google.
*Never give up. Great things take time.
Dieter Bohn leave The Verge, joining Google on the Platforms & Ecosystems team
The Verge | Dieter Bohn | YouTube Video
Dieter Bohn, previously the executive editor at The Verge, will be joining Google and work on the Platforms & Ecosystems team.
He mentioned that he will be working on software platforms like Android and Chrome, which are some of the most used consumers product owned by Google. Hiroshi Lockheimer, SVP of the team, had sincerely welcomed Bohn to join the Google's family.
Bohn is one of the founding editorial team at The Verge, he has been working over there since 2011. Besides, he also used to be the editor-in-chief of Smartphone Experts. Anyway, after nearly 20 years of hard work in the tech media, he has finally got the opportunity to work at Google.
*Never give up. Great things take time.
The Verge
A heartfelt farewell from Dieter Bohn
I’m going to miss writing and making video for you all.
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#News #Fi #Voice #StopRussianAggression
Here's what Google is doing in order to help Ukraine
Google Blog
The Russia Ukraine invasion is getting worse day by day. In order to help people in the Ukraine stay updated with the latest situation and stay connected at the same time, Google once again step out and announced some changes.
First, they announced Project Shield which help protects over 150 Ukraine websites. Google said they still "see DDoS attempts against numerous Ukraine sites," so they have decided to expand the service, "help block these attacks and keep websites online."
The Russia soldiers just won't stop releasing air raid in the country, and to keep citizen alerted about it, Google has highlighted Ukrainian Alarm (Повітряна тривога) app to Ukraine Google Play users. Google is also "extending free services through Google Cloud credits to eligible organizations."
Google Fi call from Ukraine and from US to Ukraine are totally free. Google Voice calls per minute Ukraine rates are now free for everyone worldwide too.
Lastly, the company is adding an extra $10 million commitment (now total of $25 million) to "help organizations delivering both immediate humanitarian aid and longer-term assistance for refugees in Poland."
Here's what Google is doing in order to help Ukraine
Google Blog
The Russia Ukraine invasion is getting worse day by day. In order to help people in the Ukraine stay updated with the latest situation and stay connected at the same time, Google once again step out and announced some changes.
First, they announced Project Shield which help protects over 150 Ukraine websites. Google said they still "see DDoS attempts against numerous Ukraine sites," so they have decided to expand the service, "help block these attacks and keep websites online."
The Russia soldiers just won't stop releasing air raid in the country, and to keep citizen alerted about it, Google has highlighted Ukrainian Alarm (Повітряна тривога) app to Ukraine Google Play users. Google is also "extending free services through Google Cloud credits to eligible organizations."
Google Fi call from Ukraine and from US to Ukraine are totally free. Google Voice calls per minute Ukraine rates are now free for everyone worldwide too.
Lastly, the company is adding an extra $10 million commitment (now total of $25 million) to "help organizations delivering both immediate humanitarian aid and longer-term assistance for refugees in Poland."
Google
Helping Ukraine
Some actions we're taking to provide charitable support, promote information quality and cybersecurity, protect colleagues and more.
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#Pixel #Pixel6a
Benchmark score shows Pixel 6a will come with Tensor and 6GB of RAM
9To5Google
Pixel 6a will be Google's upcoming mid-range Pixel device, and it could probably launch sometimes around July due to chip shortage issue. Recently, a Pixel 6a benchmark score show up on Geekbench, confirmed some specifications of the device.
The device is given the codename "bluejay," and the governor "sched_pixel" is also inline with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Besides, the CPU configuration is also similar to the first-gen Tensor, comes with two high performance ARM Cortex-X1 cores clocked at 2.8 GHz, another two A76 cores running at 2.25 GHz, and lastly four energy efficient 1.8GHz A55 cores.
There's not much difference in performance when compared to the Pixel 6 series. The Pixel 6a that is used for the Geekbench benchmark comes with 6GB of RAM.
Benchmark score shows Pixel 6a will come with Tensor and 6GB of RAM
9To5Google
Pixel 6a will be Google's upcoming mid-range Pixel device, and it could probably launch sometimes around July due to chip shortage issue. Recently, a Pixel 6a benchmark score show up on Geekbench, confirmed some specifications of the device.
The device is given the codename "bluejay," and the governor "sched_pixel" is also inline with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Besides, the CPU configuration is also similar to the first-gen Tensor, comes with two high performance ARM Cortex-X1 cores clocked at 2.8 GHz, another two A76 cores running at 2.25 GHz, and lastly four energy efficient 1.8GHz A55 cores.
There's not much difference in performance when compared to the Pixel 6 series. The Pixel 6a that is used for the Geekbench benchmark comes with 6GB of RAM.
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#News #Pixel #PixelBuds #PixelWatch
Google could be working on wearables that can respond to skin gestures
Android Authority
If you don't know yet, Sony Linkbuds allows user to control the earbuds by simply tapping their ears instead of the earbuds, and that's something similar Google is working on and it seems to be much better.
According to a patent provided by LetsGoDigital, Google wanted users to be able to operate their wearables by just swiping or tapping the skin. This will create a mechanical wave then picked up by the wearable sensors. "Sensor Fusion" will then combine all these data from multiple sensors and turn it into an input command for the wearable.
There are many use-case scenarios for this, like swiping up and down allows you to adjust the volume, tapping will control the media playback or answer the call, and there's more. For now, there's no information regarding whether Google will be implementing this feature into their upcoming Pixel Watch or not, time will tell though.
Google could be working on wearables that can respond to skin gestures
Android Authority
If you don't know yet, Sony Linkbuds allows user to control the earbuds by simply tapping their ears instead of the earbuds, and that's something similar Google is working on and it seems to be much better.
According to a patent provided by LetsGoDigital, Google wanted users to be able to operate their wearables by just swiping or tapping the skin. This will create a mechanical wave then picked up by the wearable sensors. "Sensor Fusion" will then combine all these data from multiple sensors and turn it into an input command for the wearable.
There are many use-case scenarios for this, like swiping up and down allows you to adjust the volume, tapping will control the media playback or answer the call, and there's more. For now, there's no information regarding whether Google will be implementing this feature into their upcoming Pixel Watch or not, time will tell though.
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