Ben Schoon from 9to5Google joins the podcast to discuss Android 15 updates and Find My Device rollout. They cover topics like the Motorola Edge 50 launch, Samsung Galaxy S25 rumors, Beeper acquisition, and AI Eraser rollout. Also, they touch on the Auto Pro X device for Samsung DeX in cars and the effectiveness of Android's Earthquake Detection system.
Motorola Edge 50 Pro features a 144Hz display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, and AI photo enhancements.
Samsung Galaxy S25 to continue using Exynos and Snapdragon processors, showcasing stable sourcing strategy.
Beeper acquired by Automattic, offering free usage and expanding availability on multiple platforms.
Deep dives
Motorola Edge 50 Pro Released in India
Motorola has officially released the Edge 50 Pro in India, with a distinctive back design and impressive features. The phone boasts a curved 6.7-inch display with a 144Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, 12GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. It also includes a 4,500mAh battery with 125W wired and 50W wireless charging. The device supports AI photo enhancement and comes in black, lavender, and a limited edition moonlight pearl color.
Samsung Galaxy S25 to Continue Exynos and Qualcomm Strategy
Samsung is reported to maintain its strategy of using a mix of Exynos and Snapdragon processors for the upcoming Galaxy S25, similar to the S24. This deferral from earlier plans for a proprietary chip indicates a continued collaboration between Samsung and Qualcomm. The decision suggests stability in their processor sourcing approach, likely influenced by recent chip performance and availability considerations.
Beeper Acquired by Automattic, Waitlist Dropped
Beeper, the unified messaging client, has been acquired by Automattic, the company behind WordPress and Pocket Casts. Following the acquisition, Beeper has removed its waitlist and will now be free to use. Eric Mijikovsky, Beeper's former CEO, now heads messaging at Automattic, positioning Beeper as the company's messaging app. Users can now download Beeper on various platforms and sign up for an account hassle-free.
Google's Earthquake Detection Feature Disappoints Some Users
Some users in New Jersey and the Tri-State area expressed disappointment as Google's earthquake detection feature did not notify them during a 4.8 magnitude earthquake. Despite having the feature enabled, users didn't receive any earthquake notifications, raising questions about its effectiveness and coverage outside certain states.
AI Tools Rollout in the Smartphone Arena
OnePlus introduces an AI-based eraser tool similar to Google's Magic Eraser on Pixel phones, allowing users to delete and fill in gaps in photos. Meanwhile, Google transitions Magic Eraser to a freemium model with metered saves, providing limited free usage monthly and unrestricted access for Google One subscribers. AI features are becoming a standard across smartphone brands with scrappy newcomers entering the scene, challenging incumbents with innovative tools.
Welcome Ben Schoon of 9to5Google to the show as we've got a lot going on with Android 15 developments and Google's rollout of the Find My Device network, finally!
NEWS
We got some amazing photos of the solar eclipse yesterday!
Mishaal's got the latest rundown of what's coming to Android 15
