Abner Li

With every release, Android introduces new system-level security and privacy features that more times than not requires support from third-party apps. Google Play will soon hide older apps for new users to encourage developers to support the latest Android functionality.

Desktop Chrome is getting a “step-by-step guided tour of some existing privacy and security controls” called Privacy Guide. 

Google announced in January that “G Suite legacy free edition” accounts would have to start paying for Workspace this year, but that’s now being slightly delayed. Meanwhile, those opting for the no-cost option will soon have to join a waiting list to avoid payments.

When editing another person’s document, Google today lets you leave a comment or suggest edits. Google Docs on the web will soon support emoji reactions as a “less formal alternative to comments to express your opinions.”

Google Maps is rolling out a trio of big updates over the coming weeks that add toll estimates and improve the navigation experience with a new map, while the iOS app is getting a series of additional integrations.

Last year, Google introduced a new Bug Hunters platform to encompass all its Vulnerability Reward Programs. An expanded “Android and Google Devices Security Reward Program” now brings Nest and Fitbit into the fold with Pixel.

Last Thursday, the first users started to see “Connected devices” info for Bluetooth headphones appear at the top of the Pixel Launcher and on the lockscreen. Google is now rolling out an “Earthquake alert” warning to At a Glance.

Following the ongoing removal of Assistant Snapshot on Android, the Google for iOS app looks to be adding a “Notifications” tab.

Google Fiber has long made use of “Fiber Spaces” to let potential customers experience gigabit speeds before subscribing. The ISP is now turning to Google Fiber Kiosks located in malls to let customers “take care of business quickly.”

Following last month’s two-week gap, the April’s security update is rolling out for the Pixel 6 on the same day as all other supported Google devices.

Following last month’s launch of 12L, Android 12’s April security patch is rolling out to the Pixel 3a, Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, and Pixel 6 Pro today. It comes as Android 12 QPR3 is in beta and Android 13 is set to follow this month.

Google Translate has been updated with a very neat quality-of-life improvement on Android that sees Gboard automatically update languages to improve text entry.

Given its lack of a first-party mobile OS, Microsoft is firmly invested in offering its services on Android, while also being an OEM with the Surface Duo. The company has now created a dedicated Android division internally.

With the March Feature Drop, Google announced that your Pixel’s home and lockscreen would start showing more contextual information. As the month comes to an end, At a Glance is only now beginning to roll out the “Connected devices” Bluetooth integration.

In addition to Smart Compose, grammar corrections, and spelling autocorrect, Google Docs is now rolling out writing suggestions that feature a purple underline to help with tone, style, and word choice.

The Google Home app is getting a rather sizable redesign of the device grid that makes it faster to control smart gadgets right from the main tab. This is more or less similar to the Device controls page on Android 11+.

In what’s turning out to be a big week for Pixel 6 accessories, Peak Design has released its “Everyday Case” for Google’s flagship phones.