We’re eagerly awaiting Google’s next mid-ranger and this mid-year mid-range refresh might encroach upon the base Pixel 8. Even if it’s not on your radar we still think you need to wait until the Pixel 8a launches before picking up a new phone – here’s why.
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Damien is 9to5Google‘s resident Video Producer and has over a decade of UK media experience. He worked within the sports industry and with numerous sports-focused publications — including golfing publication National Club Golfer — prior to joining the 9to5Google team.
After completing a BSc in Computer Science at the University of Hull with a major focus on data analytics and UX, he joined the Press Association (now PA Media), developing growing sports data products for the Barclay’s Premier League. These’s data packages included the now-defunct ACTIM Index which eventually evolved into the EA Sports Player Performance Index.
While working with the UK’s largest media agency, he attained a MA in Journalism at Sheffield Hallam University after completing his studies in 2014. This is where a love affair with all things videography surfaced after a brief stint in student TV. A major interest and constantly growing know-how of technology and videography have seen Damien lead 9to5Google’s official YouTube channel since 2018. He previously hosted the 9to5Google Daily podcast from 2019 to 2021.
Damien’s expertise and focus area lie in a number of beats including Android and OEM software updates, mobile applications, smartphone and accessory reviews, and just about anything that makes a modern mobile nerd tick. He says that he is “platform agnostic” despite primarily using Android devices and attempts to regularly test the iOS waters to better understand the nuances of the tech he covers on a day-to-day basis.
Outside of the tech space Damien is an avid supporter of his boyhood soccer team Hull City and is even a fully qualified Barista — with 3 years of experience making speciality coffee. Be sure to follow him on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram for insights and upcoming video updates and tidbits. If you are interested, you can also check out just what video gear he is currently using on his dedicated Kit.co page.
Unveiling 9to5Google YouTube Channel Memberships: Join today!
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of something exciting for the amazing 9to5Google community: YouTube Channel Memberships! This is your chance to directly support the channel you love and unlock awesome perks and swag along the way.
Expand Expanding ClosePolestar Phone launches in China with $1,000 price tag
EV maker Polestar has officially launched its first phone in collaboration with Chinese smartphone maker Meizu.
Expand Expanding CloseYears later the Nvidia Shield TV is still the best all-around Android TV box [Video]
In the ever-evolving realm of streaming devices, the Nvidia Shield TV stubbornly maintains its position as the undisputed Android TV box king. Launched in 2015 and refreshed in 2019, it might not be the newest gadget on the block, but its potent combination of power, longevity, and unique features keeps it relevant even against challengers like the Chromecast with Google TV.
Expand Expanding CloseSamsung reportedly launching Galaxy S24 FE later this year
After skipping a year before launching the Galaxy S23 FE in early-2024, Samsung is continuing the series with the Galaxy S24 FE reportedly coming later this year.
Expand Expanding CloseGoogle Drive search filters now rolling out on Android
Despite being announced over a month ago and available on iOS for some time, Google Drive on Android is now getting the promised search filters option.
Expand Expanding CloseSamsung Galaxy C55 launches in China
Samsung has officially unveiled another mid-range smartphone for global audience. The Galaxy C55 has stealthily been added to Samsung’s lineup in China.
Expand Expanding CloseSony could launch the Xperia 1 VI at May 17 event
Sony has confirmed an “Xperia Special Event 2024” for May 17, where the Japanese tech giant is expected to launch the firm’s next flagship smartphone – the Xperia 1 VI.
Expand Expanding CloseOnePlus Pad Go will go on sale in Europe from April 23
OnePlus has confirmed that the OnePlus Pad Go – a mid-range Android tablet – is set to go on sale in Europe from April 23.
Expand Expanding CloseGrapheneOS review: De-Googled goodness [Video]
There is merit in wanting increased privacy on your Android phone. One of the best ways to do so is with a custom ROM like GrapheneOS. Is it worth it? Here’s everything you need to know.
Expand Expanding CloseYouTube for Android TV adds animated comment count to video info pill
YouTube for Android TV is getting yet another UI tweak with an animated comment count in the info pill section to help highlight and improve interaction with videos while watching on displays.
Expand Expanding CloseTalkBack now gives audio hints for fingerprint unlocks in Android 15
Google’s efforts to increase Android accessibility have been impressive in recent years. The latest accessibility change in Android 15 Beta 1 includes audio hints for during fingerprint unlocks when using the TalkBack service.
Expand Expanding CloseAndroid Basics: How to sideload OTA updates on your Google Pixel [Video]
There are several ways to update your Google Pixel smartphone to the latest available patch or OS. If you’re willing to take matters into your own hands, you can skip the wait by sideloading an OTA update on your Google Pixel, and we will show you how.
Expand Expanding CloseYouTube for Android TV showing ‘Ambient Display’ screensaver more frequently
You may have noticed that YouTube for Android TV has been more aggressive in showing the “Ambient Display” screensaver over the past few weeks when video content is paused or left at the homepage.
Expand Expanding CloseTelegram 10.11 adds custom Sticker Editor
The new Telegram 10.11 build has added a new custom “Sticker Editor” function to add some fun to your chats and group messages.
Expand Expanding CloseGoogle Pixel 8 and 8 Pro accessories we can’t live without [Video]
The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro might not be a true powerhouse, but the right accessories can take it to the next level. Whether you’re a gamer, a style icon, or someone who needs a little more juice, we’ve got you covered. Buckle up and get ready to explore some Pixel 8 and 8 Pro essentials that will make you wonder how you ever lived without them!
Expand Expanding CloseAre you going to try Android 15 before release? [Poll]
With the public beta dropping a little earlier than we had anticipated and little of note, is Android 15 worth a try before release?
Expand Expanding CloseOnePlus and Oppo to add Gemini to devices later this year
Google has confirmed during Google Cloud Next ’24 that OnePlus and Oppo will add Gemini LLM to the firms’ devices in 2024.
Expand Expanding CloseFairphone launch Fairbuds earbuds with ANC, user-replaceable batteries for €149
The company behind the Fairphone line has officially launched the Fairbuds earbuds which include lots of user-replaceable and repairable parts including the batteries.
Expand Expanding CloseHere’s how much YouTube you view per week
YouTube is one of the biggest streaming platforms, and we wanted to know how much content you consume per week. Here’s what you had to say.
Expand Expanding CloseQuick Share file transfer progress animation receives Material Design 3 tweaks
Quick Share is now getting an updated and refreshed transfer progress animation that adheres better to Material Design 3 principles.
Expand Expanding CloseIs the Nest Hub still worth buying? [Video]
While the Nest Hub feels like a forgotten product due to the existence of the Pixel Tablet, it’s a unique and popular product that remains the sensible choice for most people’s smart home systems – here’s why.
Expand Expanding CloseHow many hours of YouTube do you watch per week? [Poll]
In a world where we have streaming services coming out of the wazoo, YouTube is arguably one of the biggest platforms, but not everyone uses it daily. It had me thinking how many hours do you watch YouTube per week?
Expand Expanding CloseSamsung blames Google Discover for Galaxy S23 touchscreen issues in One UI 6.1
Samsung is blaming the Google Discover feed for recent touchscreen issues that some Galaxy S23 owners have been experiencing after updating to One UI 6.1 – but offers a fairly simple solution.
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