Android 17 brings a surprisingly big upgrade for wireless earbuds

androidcentral.com Jun 22, 2026

Android 17 brings a surprisingly big upgrade for wireless earbuds

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Jun 22, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Google has released the stable Android 17 update, which includes a surprise addition of support for the Low Latency High-Definition Audio Codec (LHDC) on Pixel phones. This means Pixel users can now take advantage of LHDC for higher-quality wireless audio, alongside existing codecs like AAC. The update also enables users to manually select LHDCv5, a newer codec for higher-bitrate audio over Bluetooth, on compatible earbuds. Several earbuds from Nothing and OnePlus support LHDC.

💡 Why It Matters

· The addition of LHDC support on Pixel phones with Android 17 unlocks better-quality wireless audio options for users with compatible premium earbuds, making it a significant upgrade for audio enthusiasts.

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Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 leak reveals thinner bezels and a boxier…

Samsung has reportedly scrapped plans for the Galaxy Watch 9 Classic, instead focusing on a revamped Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. The new smartwatch is expected to feature thinner bezels, a boxier chassis, and a more premium design. It will also come with new band designs, colors, watchfaces, and features as part of One UI 9 Watch. The Ultra variant will have a more rugged design and a wider, more flush button with a subtle orange outline accent.

💡 The cancellation of the Galaxy Watch 9 Classic signals a shift in Samsung's smartwatch strategy, prioritizing a more premium and rugged design over a mechanical rotating bezel. This move may appeal to customers seeking a more durable and feature-rich smartwatch experience.

androidcentral.com · Jun 22

Samsung’s Privacy Display may not stay exclusive to the Galaxy S26 Ultra…

A new leak suggests Samsung may bring the Privacy Display feature to the rumored Galaxy S27 Pro next year, expanding it beyond the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Galaxy S27 Pro is expected to have a 6.47-inch display with Privacy Display technology, offering a smaller form factor with premium features. The leak also mentions the Galaxy S27 Ultra will have a 6.89-inch 2K display. Samsung is reportedly planning to launch four Galaxy S27 models, including the base, Plus, Ultra, and Pro variants. The company may skip major hardware changes due to rising component costs.

💡 Samsung's potential decision to bring Privacy Display to more devices underscores its commitment to user security. A smaller flagship with this feature would cater to a wider range of consumers seeking enhanced privacy.

notebookcheck.net · Jun 22

Android 17 update triggers freezing and scrolling issues on Pixel phones

The Android 17 update has triggered freezing and scrolling issues on Pixel phones, with users reporting erratic scrolling and brief screen non-responses. The problems occur on Pixel 10, 9, 8, and 7 models, suggesting a software cause, while Pixel 6 and earlier models are unaffected. Google has acknowledged the issues but has not released an official patch or update, instead suggesting temporary fixes like clearing the Pixel Launcher app cache or rebooting in safe mode, which have not been effective for all users, leaving them to wait for an official fix.

💡 Google's inability to deliver a smooth Android 17 update experience undermines user trust in the company's ability to provide reliable software. Affected Pixel owners are left with impaired phone functionality, highlighting the need for prompt resolution.

us.headtopics.com · Jun 22

How Google Pixel’s Adaptive Battery Balances Power Savings and App Performance

Google's Pixel phones feature an Adaptive Battery that utilizes on-device machine learning to prioritize apps and manage battery life. The system automatically allocates power based on user habits, giving frequently used apps higher priority and limiting idle apps. Users can override automatic adjustments on a per-app basis, but this may negate power-saving benefits. Adaptive Battery is enabled by default on recent Pixel devices and can be managed through the Settings menu. The feature is most effective for users with multiple installed apps and primary device usage. It extends screen-on time without requiring constant setting adjustments, making it a useful tool for managing battery life.

💡 By optimizing battery life, Adaptive Battery enhances the overall user experience, allowing for longer uninterrupted use of the device. It also reduces the need for frequent charging, making it a significant advantage for heavy smartphone users.

androidcentral.com · Jun 21

Android 17 is off to a rough start with new Pixel touchscreen…

Android 17's rollout has been marred by complaints of erratic touchscreen behavior on Pixel devices, including ignored taps and misinterpreted swipes. The issue affects various Pixel models, including the 10, 9, 8, and 7 series, and occurs across the system UI, regardless of the app. Google is aware of the problem and has suggested troubleshooting steps, but a permanent software patch has not been committed to yet. Some users have found temporary fixes, such as disabling the "Smooth Display" feature. The bug is a significant issue, as a malfunctioning touchscreen can severely impact the smartphone experience.

💡 Broken touchscreens render premium hardware useless, forcing users to rely on workarounds or postpone their Android 17 update.

9to5google.com · Jun 21

RIP Nest Mini – The Google Home Speaker isn’t a replacement, but…

Google has discontinued the Nest Mini speaker, a highly popular and affordable smart speaker, with the release of the Google Home Speaker. The new speaker, priced at $99, does not replace the Nest Mini, as it is more expensive and has a different form factor. The Nest Mini was known for its low cost and ease of use, making it a staple in many smart homes. Google's decision to discontinue the Nest Mini leaves a gap in the market, as the Google Home Speaker does not fit into the same use cases. The Nest Mini will still be available at third-party retailers and on the used market. Google's smart home lineup is now in a unique position, with no direct replacement for the Nest Mini. The company's move may be a strategic shift towards new products, with the Google Home Speaker being the first step.

💡 Google's departure from the affordable smart speaker market creates an opportunity for competitors to fill the gap. The company's focus on higher-end products like the Google Home Speaker may attract a new audience, but it also risks alienating loyal customers who relied on the Nest Mini's affordability and versatility.