On the back of expansive recent updates, NotebookLM appears to be testing the option to add banner images for further customization.
Expand Expanding CloseNotebookLM reportedly testing custom banners beyond limited emoji labels
Author
Andrew Romero is a North Carolina-based journalist specializing in Android and Google news, reviews, and in-depth analysis. With a keen eye for detail honed from his previous career as a CNC machinist, Andrew possesses a unique appreciation for hardware and the intricate engineering behind the technology we use daily.
He brings this passion to his coverage, offering insightful perspectives on the latest devices, software updates, and the evolving Google ecosystem. When he’s not diving into the world of tech, Andrew can be found tackling the trails on his mountain bike, enjoying the natural beauty of his home state of North Carolina alongside his wife.
Andrew is active on Twitter – @chaosromero – but can also be found on Threads – @organizedchaos50.
Emails are open at andrew@9to5mac.com
WhatsApp might finally support traditional passwords in addition to 2FA
WhatsApp has historically relied on OTP codes for user sign-ins, though an upcoming update appears to contain an option to add a traditional password for added security. Better late than never!
Expand Expanding ClosePeak Design took the best part about its photo gear and made high-end mobile straps
If you’re diving into the accelerating trend of crossbody straps and other mobile accessories, Peak Design might deserve your attention. The company responsible for some of the best photography straps and gear has expanded its mobile line, and these Peak Design phone straps might make me a believer in the form factor.
Expand Expanding CloseGalaxy S26 Ultra leak confirms S Pen can be stored backwards, still no Bluetooth
The Galaxy S26 is effectively no longer a secret, with one creator’s early retail Galaxy S26 Ultra on full display. The posted leaks showcase some curiosities for the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, like an S Pen that might infuriate people for more reasons than a lack of Bluetooth.
Expand Expanding CloseGalaxy S25 series, Fold 7, and TriFold are all getting Samsung’s February security patch
Samsung’s phones are now seeing an update with its latest security fixes and improvements. The February 2026 update is rolling out to most of Samsung’s newest devices, including the Galaxy TriFold, which still isn’t quite back in stock.
Expand Expanding CloseLeaked Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro prices hold steady in US
The Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro look different on the surface, but the detail sheet shows at least some carryover. The most recent leaks, appearing days before launch, detail that the Galaxy Buds 4 price structure likely isn’t going to change.
Expand Expanding CloseReview: Even Realities G2 smart glasses add a simplistic yet engaging floating display for your face
There exists a group of users who don’t need smart glasses to record video or play media for them – they just want a simple device that blends seamlessly into their everyday with important notifications and assistance at their fingertips, and Even Realities almost got it right with the G2 smart glasses.
Expand Expanding CloseGalaxy Z TriFold seeing early reports of seemingly rare, yet scary, dead displays
Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold is a very limited release, with new units reportedly on the way as demand increases. Apparently, some of those fortunate enough to get the Galaxy Z TriFold while they were in stock are seeing dead display issues, though it looks like it isn’t widespread.
Expand Expanding CloseGalaxy phones are suddenly getting Google Play system updates again
Google’s Play system updates haven’t touched Samsung Galaxy devices in some time, dating back to mid-2025. According to more than a few reports, those updates have resumed. At least, for now.
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Google is sending out Pixel 10a discount codes, up to $150 off, ahead of pre-orders
The Pixel 10a is already positioned as an ultra-affordable phone from Google, and recent leaks paint it as a capable one, at that. The latest reports state that Google is sending out discount codes to users before the full Pixel 10a launch later today, making it even harder to pass up.
Expand Expanding CloseSamsung reportedly can’t even buy its own Exynos chips for less, adding to Galaxy S26 price hike
Surfacing reports suggest that Samsung held out as long as it could in previous years, but current RAM and chip increases are creating a situation in which Samsung can’t hold out any longer and must increase the launch price of the Galaxy S26. It’s raise prices or nothing.
Expand Expanding CloseGalaxy devices may soon let creators connect high-quality mics with One UI 8.5
Samsung’s Galaxy series, especially as you reach the high-end in price, seems to want to cater to professional video more every year. After adding pro video codecs, Samsung is now offering the option to connect up to two 24-bit audio inputs via Bluetooth with an “Advanced Audio” app.
Expand Expanding CloseDbrand’s magnetic Galaxy S26 cases go live a little early, including new ‘Tank’ model
The Galaxy S26 still hasn’t been officially announced, but that hasn’t stopped case manufacturers from launching accessories for it. The good news is that, unlike the Galaxy S26 phones themselves, it doesn’t look like accessories are getting a price increase.
Expand Expanding CloseMore leaked Galaxy Buds 4 images show Samsung is going back to basics
It’s a tale as old as time. Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 have leaked, almost a full week before the company’s launch event.
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Pixel Launcher search bar gets a ‘redesign’ in Android 17 Beta 1
Up is down and down is up in Android 17 Beta 1. The first iteration of Google’s Android 17 update brings back a familiar design in place of the Pixel Launcher’s immovable search bar.
Expand Expanding CloseSamsung may have abandoned Ballie as it vanishes from website
Samsung may have been a little too ahead of its time when it announced plans for a smart home robot powered by, you guessed it, AI. The product appears to have been shelved, as Ballie vanishes from Samsung’s website.
Expand Expanding CloseSony’s WF-1000XM6 earbuds pack 32-bit audio and Google Gemini for a hefty $329
Sony officially released its flagship WF-1000XM6 earbuds with what appears to be a plethora of thoughtful touches, including 32-bit audio processing reserved for high-end earbuds.
Expand Expanding CloseGoogle Maps reportedly prepping car icon and color picker for Android Auto
The new Google Maps custom car icons have been available for a year, and more recently, the existence of custom icons in the Android Auto build. A new APK teardown report alleges that Google is preparing to bring that car color and icon picker to Android Auto displays, too.
Expand Expanding CloseAmazon Fire TV Sticks get access to GeForce Now’s cloud gaming library
Cloud gaming has been on a tear, with Nvidia at the forefront, with compatibility changes a frequent occurrence. The latest addition is Fire TVs, with an app coming to users on Amazon’s OS.
Expand Expanding CloseAndroid book-style foldables expected to dominate in 2026, report says
New research predicts that the Android and iOS foldable markets will be dominated by book-style devices rather than smaller clamshell designs, and manufacturers are already placing greater emphasis on premium, productivity-focused devices.
Expand Expanding CloseA surprising number of 9to5Google readers have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth issues on their Google Pixel
There have been growing reports of Google Pixel users experiencing Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth issues after a January 2026 update. Here’s how many of you should feel validated.
Expand Expanding CloseGalaxy S26 fully leaked specs temper big expectations for battery, display
In a few days, Samsung will announce the Galaxy S26 series and the key changes that come with it, and newly leaked specs detail those changes ahead of time. They aren’t as dramatic as some may have hoped.
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AAWireless TWO Android Auto adapter drops to lowest price in rarely seen deal
The last time the AAWireless TWO Android Auto adapter was on sale for under $45, it didn’t last long at all.
Expand Expanding CloseReview: SteelSeries’ pricey Arctis Nova Elite headphones excel at gaming – or anything, really
SteelSeries positions the new Arctis Nova Elite headphones as a premium high-res option for gamers, but in reality, it might be a premium option for all users. These headphones have some neat tricks up their sleeve that make them one of the best choices, no matter where you are.
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