Google Assistant stalls for Android Auto users

What you need to know Users have flocked to Google’s community forums to report problems with the Assistant on Android Auto. The AI helper is reportedly not working, producing a “Oops, something went wrong” error for many users. The issue doesn’t appear to be widespread, however, attempts at self-rectifying the problem have not worked. Problems … Read more

I test the Pixel Watch 2 and Fitbit Charge 6 at a spin class

At the moment that I’m writing this, it is the first day of February. “What’s so special about that?” you say. Well, it’s not that it’s Black History Month, though, that is important. It isn’t that it’s American Heart Month, National Cancer Prevention Month, National Self-Check Month, National Wedding Month, National Cherry Month, National Grapefruit … Read more

Android 15 might include an easy mode for users who find tech tricky

What you need to know Google might be considering introducing an “easy pre-set mode” in Android 15 to make smartphones more accessible for non-tech-savvy users and those with vision issues. The new mode will apparently adjust elements like icon size, text size, and navigation for enhanced user-friendliness. The feature was spotted in the first beta … Read more

Forget the S23, I just scored a Motorola Razr Plus for $6 per month with this AT&T deal — no trade-in required!

I don’t know about you, but I get pretty tired of all the best smartphone promotions requiring a trade-in, so I was pleased to see this Motorola Razr Plus deal come down the pipeline from AT&T. Pick up the sleek foldable and add an eligible line to your wireless service and you’ll only pay $5.99 … Read more

Google resumes January Google Play system update rollout for Pixel devices

What you need to know Google has resumed the rollout of the January Google Play system update for Pixel phones. The company started the release of the new Google Play System last month, but had to pause the rollout when the update caused storage issues for Pixel phones. Google has presumably fixed the problems now, … Read more

Google Tasks is the best Gmail feature you forget to use

It’s hard to keep track of all the nifty features spread across Google’s many official apps. As a recovering Inbox fanatic, I often overlook Gmail’s many buttons and features because the interface is so convoluted and busy. But while planning for my upcoming Mobile World Congress 2024 trip, I found a button that will change … Read more

Android phone vs. handheld gaming console: It’s not an easy decision

Beyond the Alphabet Beyond the Alphabet is a weekly column that focuses on the tech world both inside and out of the confines of Mountain View. With the rise in popularity of gaming handhelds, you might be wondering as to which is better between your Android phone vs. handheld gaming consoles. There are definitely pros … Read more