Wear OS 4 Hybrid Architecture improves smartwatch performance.
Pixel Fold 2 design shifts to a sleeker look with new camera layout.
Criticism surrounds Pixel Fold 2 design as Google adapts to foldable market.
One UI 6.1 update brings Galaxy AI features; Google Pay transitions to Google Wallet.
Deep dives
Pixel Fold 2 Design and Specs Revealed in 5K 360-Degree Video
The collaboration between OnLeaks and SmartPrix has revealed a 5K 360-degree video render of the Pixel Fold 2, showcasing a larger form factor and a redesigned camera bump compared to the original Pixel Fold. The outer screen is rumored to be 6.4 inches and the inner screen 7.9 inches, with a thinner profile at 10.5 mm when folded. The design shifts from a horizontal camera bar to two rectangular camera islands, offering a sleeker look.
Thinner and Wider Form Factor with Larger Screens
The Pixel Fold 2 boasts a thinner and wider form factor compared to its predecessor, with the phone being thinner at 10.5mm when folded and expanding to 5.24mm when unfolded. The design emphasizes larger screens, with the outer screen at 6.4 inches and the inner screen at 7.9 inches, offering a more immersive foldable experience.
Design Evolution and Camera Layout Changes
The design evolution of the Pixel Fold 2 showcases a shift in the camera layout from a horizontal bar to two rectangular camera islands, aligning with the new design language. The changes in the camera layout aim to offer a modern and sleek appearance, catering to the evolving foldable smartphone market.
Pixel Fold 2 Design Criticism and Forward-Thinking Approach
The revealed design of the Pixel Fold 2 has sparked criticism and speculation about Google's approach to foldable technology. Some view it as a departure from the traditional Pixel design, while others see it as a necessary evolution to adapt to the changing foldable smartphone landscape. The wider form factor and redesigned camera layout may indicate a forward-thinking approach to cater to consumer preferences.
Comparison with Other Foldable Phones and Market Trends
The Pixel Fold 2's design and specifications position it amidst other foldable smartphones, such as the OnePlus Fold and Samsung Z Fold series. The move towards a wider form factor and enhanced screen sizes reflects current trends in the foldable smartphone market, emphasizing larger displays and thinner profiles to offer a more immersive experience for users.
Samsung Announces One UI 6.1 Update for Existing Devices
Samsung reveals the rollout date of the One UI 6.1 update for devices like the Galaxy S23 series, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5, and Tab S9 series, bringing Galaxy AI features, such as chat assist, live translate, and more, by the end of March 2024.
Google Pay to be Discontinued on June 4, 2024
Google announces the discontinuation of Google Pay, with Google Wallet to be the new standard payment app from that date, simplifying the service and offering a clear transition towards Google Wallet for Android users.
Near Drop App for Mac OS Provides Nearby Share Functionality
Near Drop, a Mac OS application, successfully enables nearby share functionality with Android devices, offering an efficient solution to transfer files seamlessly between Mac OS computers and Android phones, providing a user-friendly and effective experience.
Bjorn Kilburn, VP of Wear OS at Google joins Jason Howell, Mishaal Rahman, Ron Richards, and Huyen Tue Dao to talk about the new Hybrid Architecture features of Wear OS 4 and the new OnePlus Watch 2. Plus, it's a super-sized episode with all the biggest gadget news from Mobile World Congress 2024!
Featured in this episode:
NEWS
9 new Android features to help you stay productive
Wear OS 4 interview with Bjorn Kilburn
HARDWARE
Introducing OnePlus Watch 2: A Dual-Engine Flagship Smartwatch Powered with Wear OS by Google
Google Pixel Fold 2 360-Degree Video And 5K Renders Reveal; No More Horizontal Camera Visor
Xiaomi Debuts Xiaomi 14 Series Internationally with Next-Generation Leica Optics, Powered by Xiaomi HyperOS
Xiaomi Adds an Exciting Array of Smart Living Products to its International AIoT Lineup
Qualcomm Redefines Connected Experiences with FastConnect 7900, the First AI-optimized Wi-Fi 7 System
Qualcomm Unveils the World’s Most Advanced 5G Modem-RF System, Harnessing Integrated AI to Enable the Next Generation of 5G
ZTE Devices at MWC
Honor Magic 6 Pro
HMD - Barbie Flip phone and Modular Phones
Motorola’s Rollable Concept phone laughs at your silly foldable
MORE NEWS
Patron News Story Pick: Androidify strikes back: Google now lets you create a custom Android ‘Bot’
New One UI 6.1 Update Brings Galaxy AI to More Galaxy Devices