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Material is a weekly discussion about the Google and Android universe. Your intrepid hosts try to answer the question, “What holds up the digital world?” The answer, so far, is that it’s Google all the way down. Hosted by Andy Ihnatko and Florence Ion.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 14min
545: Folds Three Times
We were expecting a quiet week. Instead, we got a major Android 16 update and a Samsung phone that folds three ways.
Links and Show Notes:
Android 16's Latest Update Adds Gemini-Powered Notification Summaries and Improved Fraud Detection
Android and iPhone users can now share files, starting with the Pixel 10 family
New Android features keep you focused on what matters most
Google is experimentally replacing news headlines with AI clickbait nonsense
Made for you, by you: Introducing YouTube Recap
Look back on your 2025 with Google Photos Recap
Samsung reveals Galaxy Z TriFold with 10-inch foldable screen, astronomical price
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Nov 27, 2025 • 30min
544: Something That’s Attainable
We're here, we're relaxed, and we're talking about Aluminum. What is Google planning for the desktop?
Links and Show Notes:
Google's new 'Aluminium OS' project brings Android to PC: Here's what we know
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Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 18min
543: Wartime Mentality
It's a big week of news without Flo, but Andy holds down the fort. Gemini 3 launches alongside an unexpected AirDrop trick between Android and iPhone.
Links and Show Notes:
A new era of intelligence with Gemini 3
Android and iPhone users can now share files, starting with the Pixel 10 family
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Nov 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
542: Suddenly BFFs
Google and Epic are still working out the details. The company announces Private AI Compute, which Apple will use to create its own foundation model built on Gemini. And why Google retreated on its planned restrictions for sideloading.
Links and Show Notes:
Epic and Google may not get their settlement
Private AI Compute: our next step in building private and helpful AI
Android developer verification: Early access starts now as we continue to build with your feedback
Hackers are saving Google's abandoned Nest thermostats with open-source firmware
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Nov 6, 2025 • 47min
541: The Settlement
Google and Epic have been fighting for years. Andy talks through the dispute and whether it's finally ended. Plus, why Apple is sticking with Google's Gemini.
Links and Show Notes:
Fortnite maker Epic Games and Google say they’re settling 5-year legal fight over Android app store
Apple Nears $1 Billion-a Year Deal to Use Google AI for Siri
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Oct 31, 2025 • 1h 12min
540: Spooky, Scary Earnings
Happy Halloween! We parse Google's scary earnings call (it's scary how much money they made!) and discuss what the new Fitbit personal health coach is like.
Links and Show Notes:
I'll Never Forget Google's Quiet Retreat From Allyship
‘Their history is just erased’: Google drops a key program for boosting women in tech
Fitbit's AI-Powered Personal Health Coach Enters Public Preview
Fitbit's personal health coach in public preview is here
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Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 4min
539: Hotel Andy
Andy quietly leads the show from a hotel room as we discuss Samsung's Galaxy XR headset.
This episode of Material is sponsored by:
Vitally: A new era for customer success productivity. Get a free pair of AirPods Pro when you book a qualified meeting.
Links and Show Notes:
Introducing Galaxy XR: Opening New Worlds
Introducing Galaxy XR, the first Android XR headset
OpenAI launches AI browser Atlas in latest challenge to Google
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Oct 16, 2025 • 1h 13min
538: A Can of Tuna on Your Wrist
This episode's title does not refer to the Pixel Watch 4. Google Photo's conversational edits are finally rolling out.
Links and Show Notes:
Google Pixel Watch 4: The Apple Watch of Android Phones
Pixel 10 Pro Fold smokes up and explodes during JRE's durability test
We’re improving navigation and introducing a new control for ads on Google Search
10 ways you can ask Google Photos to edit your photos for you
Introducing Veo 3.1 and advanced capabilities in Flow
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Oct 10, 2025 • 1h 3min
537: Ark of the Covenant
Google's new Pixel Buds 2a are impressive. The company invokes the Play Store rules to remove an app. A revolution is coming.
Links and Show Notes:
Google Pixel Buds 2a Review: ANC Makes These a Worthy Upgrade
Exclusive: Samsung Galaxy XR 'Project Moohan' Headset Official Renders and Information
Google Calls ICE Agents a Vulnerable Group, Removes ICE-Spotting App ‘Red Dot’
Google Wants Right to Bundle Gemini AI App With Maps, YouTube
US Supreme Court allows order forcing Google to make app store reforms
Google Pixel Watch 4: The Apple Watch of Android Phones
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Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 10min
536: Up to Speed
The Google Home has been revamped with new devices, a new app, and Gemini infusion all throughout. And then, boot loop woes.
Links and Show Notes:
Gemini for Home: The helpful home gets an AI upgrade
Gemini for Home: Expanding the Platform for a New Era of Smart Home AI
The Google Home Speaker: Engineered for Gemini
Google’s “G” gets a brighter look
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