Home / Android / Samsung phones finally support Googlebook cross-device features
Samsung phones finally support Googlebook cross-device features
androidcentral.com Oct 12, 2026

Samsung phones finally support Googlebook cross-device features

Curated by · TechCapsules ·

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Google has released a software update that finally enables Samsung Galaxy phones to use Google Book’s “Better Together” cross‑device features. The fix addresses a pairing bug that left many Samsung users unable to stream apps, sync notifications, access phone files, or use Continue On with the new laptop. Compatibility requires One UI 9.0 on Android 17, Google Play services version 26.37 or newer, and Cross‑device services version 1.0.1346 or newer, with both devices logged into the same Google account and Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi enabled. A separate Play services update also resolves a QR‑code display glitch during setup. Google says the changes will roll out automatically in the coming days, and early reports show improved app casting on some Galaxy S26 Ultra units.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · Enabling Samsung’s flagship phones unlocks the majority of Android’s user base for Google Book, turning the laptop from a niche accessory into a viable cross‑device ecosystem.
Android Capsules Gadgets Smartphones
Read full article on androidcentral.com
More in Android →
Nothing starts rolling out stable Android 17 update to Phone (3) – here’s the schedule
9to5google.com · Oct 12

Nothing starts rolling out stable Android 17 update to Phone (3) –…

Nothing has released its stable Android 17 update for the Nothing Phone (3), marking the first official rollout of Nothing OS 5.0. The update, based on Android 17, introduces a redesigned launcher, a Micrographics clock face, a refreshed design system, deeper personalization options, smoother performance, and enhanced Essential AI tools. Users can install it via Settings > System > System update. Nothing plans to extend the update to other devices, with stable rollouts scheduled through mid‑January 2027.

💡 The launch demonstrates Nothing’s commitment to a cohesive software ecosystem, potentially setting a new standard for feature integration in mid‑tier smartphones.

Samsung is now rolling out Android 17 to these older Galaxy devices in the US
9to5google.com · Oct 12

Samsung is now rolling out Android 17 to these older Galaxy devices…

Samsung has begun rolling out its One UI 9 update, built on Android 17, to several Galaxy models in the United States. The upgrade now reaches the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6, following earlier releases for the Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8. Users will find the update as a standard download in the Settings app, with availability confirmed in South Korea and the US and regional rollout expected in coming days. The Galaxy S24 line and Fold 6 are the latest to receive One UI 9, while the upcoming Galaxy S25 and Fold 5 are anticipated to follow. The new interface introduces a handful of visual tweaks and functional enhancements, though feature lists remain limited.

💡 Extending Android 17 to older premium devices helps Samsung retain high‑end users who might otherwise migrate for newer software, reinforcing brand loyalty.

LineageOS 24 launches based on Android 17 with app redesigns and simple flash tool
9to5google.com · Oct 12

LineageOS 24 launches based on Android 17 with app redesigns and simple…

LineageOS 24 has been released, built on Android 17 and arriving ahead of schedule as the custom ROM project approaches its 10‑year anniversary on December 24, 2026. The new version ships with Material Design 3 Expressive updates for most core apps, including a Canvas image editor, a revamped Updater with streamed installs, and enhancements to the Twelve music player and Jelly browser’s PWA‑style shortcuts. Security patches span August 2025 to October 2026. Installation is simplified by WebUSB‑based flash tools that run in a browser for ADB Fastboot, Amlogic Burn and Samsung Odin workflows. Legacy devices on Linux kernels 4.4 and 4.9 will no longer receive new builds, but will stay supported on LineageOS 22.2. Early adopters can expect faster OTA updates and compatibility soon.

💡 By bringing Android 17 to a wide range of older hardware, LineageOS 24 extends the lifespan of devices that manufacturers have long abandoned, giving users a modern, secure platform without needing a new phone.

LineageOS support finally comes to Pixel 10 and 10a lineup
9to5google.com · Oct 12

LineageOS support finally comes to Pixel 10 and 10a lineup

LineageOS has released official builds for the Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10a smartphones, ending a year‑long wait for the devices. The custom ROM, based on Android 17, became available the same day LineageOS 24 was announced, offering Material 3 Expressive UI updates, a new “Canvas” image editor, and security patches through October 2026. Development was delayed by Google’s recent restrictions on device trees and driver binaries, as well as postponed public kernel releases, which hampered ROM projects after the launch of Android 16. While nightly builds for the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro are already live, stable releases for the Pixel 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold, and 10 a remain pending. The update gives owners an AI‑free, fully patched alternative to stock Android.

💡 It gives Pixel 10 users a fully supported, privacy‑focused OS option despite Google’s tightening of firmware access.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 vs Galaxy Z Flip 7: which flip foldable is best?
techradar.com · Oct 12

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 vs Galaxy Z Flip 7: which flip…

Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z Flip 8 earlier this year, retaining the clamshell form factor of its predecessor while trimming the chassis, refining the hinge, and upgrading the processor to an Exynos 2600 or Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, depending on market. Both models share a 6.9‑inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display and a 4.1‑inch cover screen, each capable of up to 120 Hz refresh rates and 2,600 nits peak brightness. Camera arrays remain identical, featuring a 50 MP primary sensor and 12 MP ultra‑wide lens, with a 10 MP front camera. Battery capacity and charging stay at 4,300 mAh with 25 W wired and 15 W wireless support. The Flip 7, now priced lower, offers comparable performance, making it a viable alternative to the newer model.

💡 The Flip 8’s modest hardware gains versus a price‑sensitive Flip 7 create a clear value dilemma for consumers choosing between cutting‑edge specs and cost savings.

I tested the Lenovo Googlebook 15 — here’s why it’s my favorite
tomsguide.com · Oct 11

I tested the Lenovo Googlebook 15 — here’s why it’s my favorite

Tom’s Guide reviewed the Lenovo Googlebook 15, a 15.3‑inch OLED laptop that runs Googlebook OS, essentially Android with added UI layers and AI tools. The reviewer praised its Cloud Grey chassis, vivid display, and performance sufficient for everyday productivity and Android apps. Integrated “Better Together” features enable seamless interaction with Android phones, mirroring the cross‑device experience familiar to Apple users. Built‑in AI utilities such as Magic Pointer and Rambler assist with routine tasks without feeling gimmicky. Drawbacks include a battery life that falls short of expectations, the need for an Android 17 device to unlock the full feature set, and early‑stage bugs in the operating system. Priced at $1,150 (or $1,099 at Best Buy), the Googlebook 15 serves as a flagship showcase for Google’s new laptop platform.

💡 It proves Google can deliver a premium, Android‑centric laptop that rivals established ecosystems, forcing competitors to rethink cross‑device integration.