Tech experts Juan Bagnell and Tshaka Armstrong join the show to discuss Google Drive data loss, underutilizing Android phone capabilities, the upcoming release of the OnePlus 12, streaming devices, and Google Messages adding support for ultra HDR images over RCS. They also cover media tech coverage, developing for Fire TV, and concerns about Amazon's ecosystem.
The Google Pixel 8 introduces the Best Take feature, allowing users to select the best faces in group photos.
Android introduces the audio magic eraser feature, enabling users to remove background noise in audio recordings.
Google Lens offers a convenient way to extract text from images using optical character recognition (OCR) technology.
Deep dives
Google Pixel 8 introduces Best Take feature for selecting the best faces in group photos
The Google Pixel 8 introduces the Best Take feature, which allows users to select the best faces in group photos. This feature is helpful during family gatherings or events where multiple shots are taken, allowing users to choose the best photo for each person. It streamlines the process of capturing great group photos and ensures that everyone looks their best.
Android's audio magic eraser feature removes background noise in recordings
Android introduces the audio magic eraser feature, which allows users to remove background noise in audio recordings. This feature uses AI and noise reduction technology to isolate specific frequencies and eliminate unwanted sounds. It is beneficial for recording important moments where background noise can be distracting, such as during toasts or speeches at family gatherings.
Using Google Lens to extract text from images for easy sharing and navigation
Google Lens offers a convenient way to extract text from images using optical character recognition (OCR) technology. This feature allows users to copy text from flyers, invitations, or party information directly into Google Maps or other applications. It simplifies the process of sharing event details or navigating to a specific location. Additionally, Google Lens can also be used to transfer text from images to a computer for further utilization.
Budget phone recommendation for Verizon
For a budget phone on Verizon, options such as the Motorola G Pure, Nokia 2 V Tella, Samsung Galaxy A14 5G, and Motorola G Power are available within the price range of $140 to $220. However, it's worth considering a slightly higher budget to ensure a smooth and lag-free experience. You may also want to look into purchasing a used or refurbished premium-tier device from a couple of years ago, such as the Google Pixel 6, which can offer better longevity and software support.
Challenges of app distribution and fragmentation between Amazon and Google
The contrast between Amazon's approach to lean back framework for Android TV and Google's open-source tools has resulted in fragmentation in app distribution and support. This creates difficulties for developers and may have broader implications for Amazon's ecosystem. Additionally, the divergence in platforms raises concerns about the overall development and user experience, as more effort is required to support different apps and packaging for each platform.
With everyone out on vacation, Ron Richards is the sole host but fear not, he's joined by some of the best in biz as Juan Bagnell and Tshaka Armstrong join the show to have a lively conversation despite it being a very slow news week.
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Featured in this episode:
NEWS: Google Drive users are missing data, Android 14 Screenshot API starts rolling out and Tshaka Armstrong shares some tips for making the holidays better thanks to Android. And the Patron News Pick of the week was that Google Cast control notifications now appear in the Android media player
HARDWARE: The OnePlus 12 is coming! And we get our first offical glimpse at the new phone thanks to OnePlus. Samsung Galaxy S24 photos have leaked showing a flat screen. Wal-Mart released the Onn. Streaming Stick for less than $15!
APPS: Google Messages gets support for Ultra HDR images over RCS
COMMUNITY: Dave Carver writes in with practical developer experience coding apps for Amazon Fire TV as well as Google TV and Cory needs advice on what lower-budget phone to purchase next.
Thanks to Juan Bagnell and Tshaka Armstrong for joining the show!
