TechCapsules

Google opens the Play Store to external billing in the US, UK,…

Google will open the Play Store to external payments on June 30 in the US, UK, and Europe, following a years-long legal dispute with Epic Games. The new policy allows Android developers to use external billing alongside Play Store distribution, with fees starting at 10% on the first $1 million in annual earnings. Developers can use Google Play Billing, alternative billing, or external links for billing outside the app. Fees will be lower for new installs and auto-renewing subscriptions, with a 5% billing fee applying to Google Play's billing system. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for developers.

💡 Lower fees and external billing options may attract more developers to the Play Store, increasing competition and innovation. Alternative billing methods can also reduce Google's control over in-app transactions.

GM just ‘unlocked’ over 200 Android Automotive apps, including YouTube, for its…

General Motors (GM) has announced that its Google built-in vehicles will support over 200 new Android Automotive apps, including popular streaming services like YouTube, Disney+, and Hulu. This update is part of a software rollout that will allow passengers to access a wide range of content on their own screens, including movies, shows, songs, podcasts, and live radio and TV channels. The new apps will be available on the center display and passenger screens in GM SUVs, starting with model year 2025 and newer vehicles.

💡 The addition of streaming services to GM vehicles with Google built-in marks a significant shift in the automotive industry, where entertainment is becoming a key differentiator. As consumers increasingly expect seamless connectivity and personalized experiences, GM's move to integrate popular streaming services directly into its vehicles may set a new standard for the industry.

Samsung is preparing Android 17 updates for these Galaxy devices

Samsung is preparing Android 17 updates for a wide range of Galaxy devices, including unreleased models. The company released its first Android 17 beta build in May, and the list of devices in preparation has been expanding. Devices ranging from the Galaxy S24 series to mid-range Galaxy A devices are expected to receive the update, with some devices already in beta testing.

The Pixel Watch 4 just hit its lowest price ever, so it…

The Google Pixel Watch 4 has reached its lowest price ever, with a $60 discount on the 41mm version and an $80 discount on the 45mm version. This brings the prices down to $289.99 and $319.99, respectively. The watch features a unique design, improved Wear OS, and a refined charger. The recent Wear OS 7 upgrade has delivered further improvements, making this a desirable upgrade. The Pixel Watch 4 is available on Amazon, with prices compared to Best Buy. The watch offers a gorgeous design, great charger, and Gemini-powered Google Health app.

💡 Improved Wear OS and a refined design make the Pixel Watch 4 a compelling choice for those seeking a high-quality smartwatch. Enhanced health features and customization options also increase its appeal.

Gemini Intelligence makes brief Pixel 10 series appearance on Android 17 QPR1…

Google has released Android 17 QPR1 Beta 5, which includes a brief appearance of the Gemini Intelligence logo on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold's outer display. The logo features a gradient 'G' and is situated at the bottom of the boot screen. This is the only device with Gemini Intelligence branding in the beta, and the features themselves are not present. The inclusion is likely an oversight, but it remains to be seen if Gemini Intelligence will undergo beta testing before its summer launch.

💡 The Gemini Intelligence branding's premature appearance raises questions about Google's testing process and whether the features will be ready for the summer launch.

Google Messages starts rolling out custom ‘Chat themes’ with wallpaper backgrounds

Google Messages is introducing custom "Chat themes" with wallpaper backgrounds, providing users with more extensive personalization options. The new feature replaces the existing "Change colors" option and allows users to customize their chat backgrounds and colors. Chat themes are available on Android devices, with a conversation preview at the top of the screen and a carousel of color and wallpaper options. Only the user will see these changes, and the rollout is being staged.

💡 The introduction of Chat themes addresses a long-standing user request for more customization options in Google Messages, bringing it in line with modern messaging apps.