Exciting News: Gemini’s Top Feature Becomes Free for Everyone, Plus Additional Free Features for Select Users
Weekly Mobile Updates: Google, Samsung, and More
The past week in mobile technology brought some notable developments, particularly from Google, Samsung, and other players in the industry. Let’s break down the significant news.
H2: Exciting Updates from Google
H3: Google Gemini’s Generous Offer
This week, Google made headlines by expanding access to its Gemini services. Students in the U.S. can now enjoy a fully funded Gemini Advanced subscription until June 30, 2025. This offer also comes with 2TB of Google Drive storage, making it an attractive option for college students. Additionally, Google expanded access to the new Gemini Live feature, which includes real-time camera and screen-sharing capabilities. This feature allows users to interact with the AI about their surroundings, creating a more immersive experience.
H3: Android 16 Nears Stable Release
In another significant update, Google announced the release of Android 16 Beta 4, marking the last milestone before the stable version. Google’s President indicated that a public release is anticipated in Q2 of 2025. The Android team is optimistic as they have followed their development timeline closely, suggesting a well-planned launch, possibly at the upcoming Google I/O event.
H3: Google Assistant Phases Out
In a related trend, Google Assistant is scheduled to be phased out by the end of the year, with its functionalities being replaced by Gemini on most devices. Fitbit users have started receiving notifications about the discontinuation of Google Assistant. The transition may not be seamless, leading to uncertainties about replacements on various devices.
H2: Samsung’s One UI 7 Journey
H3: One UI 7 Update Experience
This week, Samsung continued its saga with One UI 7. After a lengthy beta testing phase, the rollout for Galaxy S24 users began. However, the update faced a hiccup when a significant bug was discovered, halting the distribution globally. Fortunately, Samsung quickly resolved the issue and resumed the rollout with a new build shortly after.
H2: Other Noteworthy Updates
H3: A Peculiar Pixel Wallpaper Problem
Users of Google’s Pixel devices are experiencing glitches with the Wallpaper & Style app. When attempting to select certain wallpapers, users are unexpectedly redirected back to their previous choice. Although this is primarily a visual bug, it can lead to complications when users try to reapply their original wallpapers, as the system may still think they are selected.
H3: Fitbit Users to Lose Google Assistant
As Google Assistant nears its end of life, users on Fitbit devices will soon lose access to this feature. Notifications are being sent to Fitbit users, marking a significant transition in how they will interact with their devices.
H2: Summary of Developments
This week’s news highlights significant shifts in mobile technology from major companies. Google has offered extensive benefits to students and continued developing its operating systems, while Samsung managed a challenging update rollout. Meanwhile, users are grappling with changes to beloved features in their devices, indicating a time of transition and adaptation in the tech world.
