Google Archives | KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com/category/google/ Daily Tech News for the Non-Techie Tue, 27 Dec 2022 20:23:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://knowtechie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cropped-LOGO-ICON-KNOW-TECHIE-FINAL01-01-COLOR-32x32.png Google Archives | KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com/category/google/ 32 32 How to turn on Google Chrome’s secret Reader Mode https://knowtechie.com/how-to-enable-google-chrome-reader-mode/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 20:22:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=185077 Prefer a more simplified look when browsing the web? Here's how to enable Reader Mode on Google Chrome.

The post How to turn on Google Chrome’s secret Reader Mode appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
On the surface, Google Chrome doesn’t appear to have a Reader Mode. But if you dig in, you’ll find that the feature does exist within Chrome’s features.

Reader Mode displays pages in a simplified view for easy reading. The tool works best with articles and other similar content, providing a more digestible format.

Why Google feels the need to bury the feature is unclear. But locating the appropriate settings is straightforward once you know where to look. Here’s how to enable Google Chrome reader mode.

Enable Google Chrome’s hidden reader mode on desktop

google chrome reader mode main
Image: KnowTechie

If you prefer to read news and articles in a more simplified format, here’s how to enable Reader Mode in Chrome on desktop:

  1. Launch Google Chrome and type chrome://flags in the address barchrome flags address

  2. Type Reader Mode in the flags search boxsearch reader mode chrome flags

  3. Click the dropdown that says Default and switch to Enabledenable reader mode chrome

  4. Click the Relaunch button at the bottom of the page to relaunch Chrome with reader mode enabledrelaunch google chrome for flags

READ MORE: How to stop Chrome from saving history on Windows and Mac

Whenever Reader Mode is available, the icon will appear on the right of the address bar (shown above). All you need to do is click the button, and the page will transform for easy reading.

Enable Google Chrome’s hidden reader mode on mobile

viewing simplified pages on chrome app
Image: KnowTechie

READ MORE: How to view and edit saved passwords in Google Chrome

For those of us who prefer to digest content through our smartphones, here’s how to enable Reader Mode in the Chrome mobile app:

  1. Launch Google Chrome and tap the More menu
browser mobile app
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Go to Settings > Accessibility
accessibility settings on browser
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Tick Simplified view for web pages
chrome reader mode on app
Image: KnowTechie

Whenever you visit a compatible page, a prompt will appear asking if you want to switch to a simplified view (shown above). Tapping View when prompted activates the feature.

Why does Google hide its Reader Mode in Chrome?

Locating Reader Mode on most popular browsers doesn’t involve an epic quest into the settings. For some reason, however, Google has decided to hide the feature.

Why? Because sometimes epic settings quests are fun. But once you know where to find it, Chrome’s Reader Mode lets you see a more simplified version of a webpage.

And with easy prompts on both desktop and mobile versions of Chrome, Reader Mode is easy to use after its initial setup.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post How to turn on Google Chrome’s secret Reader Mode appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google Chrome adds full support for passkeys https://knowtechie.com/google-chrome-adds-full-support-for-passkeys/ Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:38:56 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=261671 Passkeys are the future of account security.

The post Google Chrome adds full support for passkeys appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google Chrome version 108 supports passkeys, the biometric authentication standard to keep your data secure.

The Chromium team announced the change in a blog post last week. Passkeys will be offered on sites that support them. Chrome will save them in its own password manager or third-party options.

The best thing about passkeys is that even after a data breach, your passkey is safe. That’s because of two things.

First, passkeys don’t use passwords, so there’s no easy way for criminals to use the data. Secondly, passkeys use your mobile device as the unlock key.

That means you can use biometrics to get into your accounts. Even if a criminal gets your passkey, they’re not likely to have your smartphone or your face/finger/screen unlock code.

Passkey management in Google Chrome

chrome passkeys screen
Image: KnowTechie

Passkeys are the future of account security. They don’t rely on easily guessed passwords. They also don’t rely on insecure two-factor authentication methods like SMS.

They’re cross-platform and work on iOS, Windows, Mac, and Android. They’re also easy to use.

You’ll see a QR code on websites that offer a passkey login. You can point your mobile device’s camera at that code, and a prompt to authenticate with biometrics will pop up.

At no point do you have to type anything in, so keyloggers are useless for skimming your credentials. Two-factor codes can be intercepted, but you don’t need those either.

Biometric data stays on your device, so there’s nothing for an attacker to catch.

Google says that passkey support for Android apps is next, with an API in the works. When available, you’ll want to change your passwords for passkeys as they’re far more secure.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google Chrome adds full support for passkeys appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Chrome adds much-needed Memory and Energy Saving modes https://knowtechie.com/chrome-adds-much-needed-memory-and-energy-saving-modes/ Fri, 09 Dec 2022 14:18:28 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=261234 The Chrome update is coming to Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS over the next few weeks.

The post Chrome adds much-needed Memory and Energy Saving modes appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google Chrome is adding a Memory Saver mode for more efficient browsing and an Energy Saver mode to conserve battery when you’re laptop is getting low.

Earlier this week, the company revealed its new update in a blog post on its website. It has already started rolling out the feature.

Everyone on Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS will have the feature in the next few weeks.

If you spend a lot of time in Chrome, you might notice that it can get sluggish if you have many open tabs.

That’s because the browser uses quite a bit of memory, which can cause problems on PCs with lower specs.

chrome memory saver prompt
Image: KnowTechie

Chrome’s new Memory Saver mode aims to address that issue.

By putting inactive tabs to sleep, Google says memory saver mode reduces Chrome’s memory usage by up to 40%. That should lead to faster browsing.

Energy Saver mode is designed specifically with laptops in mind.

chrome energy saver mode
Image: KnowTechie

The browser automatically limits background activity and visual effects when Chrome has less than 20% battery life. This will help save battery until you can charge again.

As someone who routinely has about 30 Chrome tabs open at once, I’m excited to see what Memory Saver mode is all about.

I have a high-spec PC with 32GB of RAM, and I still notice some sluggishness if I get too carried away with Chrome tabs.

If you don’t see these features on your own Chrome browser yet, don’t worry. Google’s still rolling them out, and we should all have them in the next few weeks.

In the meantime, check out our Chrome guide: How to update Google Chrome on any device

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Chrome adds much-needed Memory and Energy Saving modes appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Chrome adds better way to search bookmarks, tabs, and history https://knowtechie.com/chrome-adds-a-new-way-to-search-bookmarks-tabs-and-history/ Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:35:37 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=260721 Just type "@" in your address bar and you can start search in one of those three categories.

The post Chrome adds better way to search bookmarks, tabs, and history appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
The latest Google Chrome update added a new way for users to search tabs, bookmarks, and search history directly through the Chrome address bar.

Google shared the details of its latest feature update in a blog post on its website earlier this week. The update makes navigating the web browser even easier.

The feature lets you search through tabs, bookmarks, and search history with an “@” in the Chrome address bar.

All you need to do is type “@” in the address bar. Then, you’ll see options to search through tabs, bookmarks, or history.

From there, you can easily navigate through the topic you choose. Just type in a few letters of the subject you’re looking for, and you’ll see it populate to the address bar.

Tab search isn’t exactly a brand-new feature for Google Chrome. The browser added tab search via the arrow drop-down button at the top right of the page in 2020.

But the new update adds the ability to search bookmarks and history. Plus, it brings the different search functions together in a more convenient location in the address bar.

If you’re like me and constantly have dozens of tabs open at a time, tab search can be a super useful feature.

And the ability to search through bookmarks and search history right in the address bar will be incredibly convenient.

Google is rolling out this new shortcut feature to Chrome users now. It’s already available on our end, so type a quick “@” in your address bar to see if the feature is available. If not, check out our guide on updating Chrome here.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Chrome adds better way to search bookmarks, tabs, and history appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google Pixel 8: Release, price, and features https://knowtechie.com/google-pixel-8-release-price-features/ Tue, 06 Dec 2022 16:35:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=255835 The rumor mill is already working overtime.

The post Google Pixel 8: Release, price, and features appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
It feels like yesterday that the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro were released. Now, leaks for Google’s Pixel 8 are coming out, and the device looks pretty good.

Leaks for the chip powering the devices, rumored design changes, and a big display change are all floating around. Renders of what the devices could look like are also out, and they’re impressive.

Everything sounds like Google wants to keep its place as one of the top Android handsets.

Expect an Android experience that’s Google’s view of what a mobile operating system should be, without the manufacturer tweaks that other Android device makers clutter their devices with.

We’ll keep updating this post as more news comes in, but until then, here’s the current state of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Pixel 8 release date

render of pixel 8 smartphone
Image: YouTube via Science and Knowledge

Google traditionally releases its flagship line in October with a release event the week before retail availability. That was true for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro and pretty much every recent flagship.

That makes it an easy prediction that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will release in October 2023.

As to the names, currently, they are codenamed “Shiba” and “Husky” internally, with Shiba likely being the base model. That’s according to Winfuture.de, and these two devices are using a new SoC for power.

How much will the Google Pixel 8 cost?

A big data dump from YouTuber Science & Knowledge says the price of the Pixel 8 Pro will start at $800. That’s $100 cheaper than this year’s Pixel 7 Pro, so perhaps the leak was of a price after launch discounts.

We can’t see Google rolling back the price on its handsets unless it’s an attempt to increase sales volume.

Features of the Pixel 8

The Pixel 8 SoC is codenamed “Zuma” and has “the same modem as the Google Tensor G2.” That’s a Samsung 5G modem, but what’s changed is that now the SoC has 12 gigabytes of RAM.

Android 14 will be running on the new handsets, as Google uses the flagship Pixel release to coincide with the next major feature upgrade to Android.

Another leak says the under-screen fingerprint sensor will be upgraded to an ultrasonic one, improving scan times and accuracy.

A big leak from Science & Knowledge about the Pixel 8 Pro has even more rumored specifications.

Those include up to 1TB of storage and up to 16GB of RAM. The earlier leak of 12GB RAM could be the base Pixel 8 or internal testing platforms for the devices.

The designer also created two mock-ups of the Pixel 8 device, which is said to have a small touchscreen on the back of the device. One has an OLED screen above the camera bar, while the second has an OLED screen.

Those would be great for notifications or as a selfie mirror when using the Pixel’s main camera.

What we’d like to see from the Pixel 8

We like what we see, especially the useful rear OLED screen. We have a short list of improvements that Google can make this time.

The most important is fixing the temperature issues with the Tensor chip. This will be the third-generation chip, and the process should be mature.

There is no excuse for any flagship device to overheat to the point where it stops the software from working, something that constantly happened on the Pixel 6a we had for a short while.

We’d still love to see a OnePlus-style switch for muting notifications or switching focus modes. Battery life that lasts longer than a day would be great, as Pixels have often struggled with this.

We’ll keep updating this post as we get more leaks, tips, and rumors. If you have a tip, send it to our contact form or slide it into our social media DMs.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google Pixel 8: Release, price, and features appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google Play reveals its most popular apps and games of 2022 https://knowtechie.com/google-play-reveals-its-most-popular-apps-and-games-of-2022/ Thu, 01 Dec 2022 16:53:02 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=259575 The 2022 Best of Play awards include tons of popular games and apps from throughout the year.

The post Google Play reveals its most popular apps and games of 2022 appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
The Best of Play awards for 2022 have been announced, celebrating the top apps on Google’s Play Store.

Google Play recognizes some of the platform’s most popular apps every year.

The annual Best of Play awards looks at apps and games across different devices and genres, highlighting the year’s best apps.

Google Play’s yearly awards are broken down into apps and games, then into separate categories under those two umbrellas.

You’ve likely heard of many of these apps, as they tend to be pretty popular.

But if not, the Best of Play awards is a great way to find new apps and games that you might enjoy.

The awards kick off with the overall winners for both games and apps. Dream by WOMBO took home the Best App award.

Dream is an AI art tool that lets you create beautiful designs in seconds with just a text prompt.

The Users’ Choice winner for Google Play’s best apps was the breakout social media platform BeReal.

BeReal challenges its users to share candid images randomly during the day, prompted by the app.

apex legends mobile screenshot
Image: Google Play

Apex Legends Mobile took home the top spot in the gaming category for both Best Game and Users’ Choice.

EA’s mobile iteration of its popular battle royale has been a huge hit since it came out earlier this year.

Best Google Play apps and games categories

google best of play 2022 banner
Image: Google Play

In addition to the best overall apps and games, Google Play breaks its awards into categories to celebrate even more games and apps.

Here are Google’s winners for the best apps in specific categories in 2022

Here are Google’s winners for the best apps in specific categories in 2022

Those are the winners of 2022’s Best of Play app awards. If you’ve been looking for new apps to download, there are some great options on this list.

Click any of the links above to head to the Google Play app page. And if you’re looking for more, Google also shared a handful of honorable mentions in its awards post.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google Play reveals its most popular apps and games of 2022 appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Pixel 7 and 7 Pro owners get a free VPN from Google https://knowtechie.com/pixel-7-and-7-pro-owners-get-a-free-vpn-from-google/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 13:05:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=246201 Keep your data more secure online, at no additional cost.

The post Pixel 7 and 7 Pro owners get a free VPN from Google appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>

UPDATE 11/30/2022 7:55 AM: Google is now rolling out the feature to Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro owners. The feature is not coming to India or Singapore, however.

Google launched the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro smartphones yesterday. One new feature will please the security conscious – free access to the Google One VPN.

A VPN or Virtual Private Network shields your internet activity from anyone by encrypting your data as it’s transferred. They are useful for any internet user, especially on always-connected devices like the Pixel 7.

Android phones have had VPN capability from the start, with Android 4.0 introducing the ability to run VPNs via an app. This is the first time we could find that an Android phone came with a VPN that didn’t require any setup.

It’s the same VPN that Google bundles with its 2TB or above Google One plans. This plan normally costs $9.99 a month, with access to the VPN likely a nominal part of that cost.

Google says that “some restrictions apply.” Not all data on your Pixel handset and Pixel Watch will be transmitted via the VPN. The VPN is unavailable in some countries, likely those that restrict or ban VPN usage.

It’s also worth noting that the Google One VPN won’t help you circumvent region locks. It’s there to keep your data private, not to make websites think you are physically in another country.

Still, it’s a nice perk for Pixel 7 owners. Google has always had Pixel-specific benefits since the first handset. One was unlimited, full-resolution photo storage.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Pixel 7 and 7 Pro owners get a free VPN from Google appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google Maps now shows the fastest EV charging stations https://knowtechie.com/google-maps-now-shows-the-fastest-ev-charging-stations/ Fri, 18 Nov 2022 16:25:27 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=256978 Google Maps users can filter results to show only the fastest charging options.

The post Google Maps now shows the fastest EV charging stations appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
After decades of mockery and indifference, electric vehicles are finally enjoying their moment in the sun.

To help EV owners find the right charger, Google Maps will now show the fastest charging stations in the nearby vicinity

Manufacturer support, a growing charging ecosystem, and healthy government subsidies have all contributed to the rise of the zero-emissions car. 

But there are still obstacles to overcome. Not all chargers are made equal. That’s where the Google Maps update comes in.

While the US had 48,000 charging stations by 2022’s halfway point, only 6,000 were fast DC charging stations, which can replenish a battery in as little as fifteen minutes. 

google maps ev stations
Image: KnowTechie

When you search for a charging station, Google Maps will show the power throughput of each charging station, allowing you to avoid sluggish Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, which typically deliver speeds under 43kW. 

Google Maps users can filter results to show only the fastest charging options — namely those with speeds above 50kW.

Another filter option allows you to select stations that are compatible with your particular electric vehicle. 

To be fair, this information was already available to people in the US. The catch was that you had to visit the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, which looks and feels like a website from the early 2000s. 

Google’s solution is cleaner, faster, and vastly more mobile-friendly. It’s also available worldwide. To start searching, update the Google Maps app on Android and iOS. 

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google Maps now shows the fastest EV charging stations appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google One VPN is now available on Windows and Mac https://knowtechie.com/google-one-vpn-is-now-available-on-windows-and-mac/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 17:17:42 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=256266 To get it, subscribers need to be on the $9.99/month Google One tier.

The post Google One VPN is now available on Windows and Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google One has rolled out its VPN service to Windows and Mac users.

Available to all Google One subscribers at the 2TB level or higher, it was previously only available on mobile. Now, desktop users can also use the VPN client on Windows and Mac computers.

If you’re a qualifying subscriber, head to one.google.com/benefits and click on the “VPN protection for multiple devices” card. That’ll show you a download link to get the program you need.

Mac users must also enable a system extension and approve several permissions.

Note that while Pixel 7 owners do get Google’s VPN for five years, they will need a qualifying Google One subscription to use the VPN on their desktops. The free VPN is limited to use on their Pixel handsets.

Google One VPN is fast

The impressive thing about the Google One VPN is the speed it allows. Most VPN connections limit their throughput, so you get slower speeds when using the VPN compared to your normal internet connection.

Google doesn’t appear to have done that. 9to5Google’s Max Weinbach shared screenshots of speed tests of Google One VPN and his normal connection. While his upload speed was reduced, download speeds were almost identical.

That’s great, showing that you don’t have to trade speed for privacy and security. The Google One VPN masks your traffic and IP address while reducing online tracking. It also makes unsecured Wi-Fi networks safer to use.

Google One’s desktop VPN is available in 22 countries, including the US, Mexico, Canada, South Korea, the UK, Spain, and Japan.

To get it, subscribers need to be on the $9.99/month tier, which also gives 2TB of Google Drive storage, 10% back in the Google Store, Google Workspace premium, and the ability to share with up to 5 other people.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google One VPN is now available on Windows and Mac appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google now warns users to update apps that crash https://knowtechie.com/google-now-warns-users-to-update-apps-that-crash/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 14:31:15 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=256296 With the latest improvement to the Google Play Store, users have a new incentive to update their apps.

The post Google now warns users to update apps that crash appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Updating software. It’s the technology equivalent of flossing. You know it’s important, sure. And yet, it’s something most people procrastinate on.

With no sense of urgency, it’s all too easy to hit “snooze” on those all-important patches and upgrades.

Now, with the latest improvement to the Google Play Store, users have a new incentive to update their apps.

Whenever an Android app crashes, Google will prompt users to install the latest version to hopefully prevent future crashes.

As noted by Android Police, the November 2022 Play Store system update changelog says it will “help users resolve app crashes with new update prompts.”

A dive into the Play Store’s source code by esper.io’s Mishaal Rahman revealed the following text:

Update the app to fix crashes
The app stopped working, but the latest update for the app may fix the issue. Install the update and then open the app again. If you want to update later, go to %1$s in Google Play.

There’s no shortage of reasons why Android apps crash. These range from sloppy coding and network connectivity issues, to a lack of quality control. Some crashes are the product of unforeseen edge cases. 

With thousands (if not tens of thousands) of device types and billions of users, crashes are inevitable. 

Inevitable, but undesirable. Developers want to make software that works. This desire — and the Google Play Store’s rating system — motivates developers to fix their code. But patches only work if people install them. 

With this relatively minor tweak, the Google Play Store will hopefully help users to help themselves.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google now warns users to update apps that crash appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google hit with record $391 million settlement over shady tracking https://knowtechie.com/google-hit-with-record-391-million-settlement-over-shady-tracking/ Tue, 15 Nov 2022 18:20:05 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=256048 The money is going to 40 states.

The post Google hit with record $391 million settlement over shady tracking appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google has agreed to a $391.5 million settlement over its previously shady practices around location tracking.

The coalition of attorneys general that won this settlement calls it the largest settlement from the U.S. regarding internet privacy (via The New York Times).

Their investigation was started in 2018 after an Associated Press report that showed Google was still tracking our location even if we explicitly turned it off on our devices.

Google has changed its policies on location data harvesting

google settlement info
Screenshot: KnowTechie

In a recent blog post, Google said it settled based on “outdated product policies” that were changed years ago.

Those policies were confusing, with users needing to change multiple settings to turn off location data storage.

As part of the settlement, Google will improve user controls and “transparency over location data.” Those include putting additional disclosures onto the Activity controls and Data & Privacy pages.

Google is also creating a new information hub. Users won’t have to dig to find information in multiple parts of their accounts.

From Google:

Revamping user information hubs: To help explain how location data improves our services, we’re adding additional disclosures to our Activity controls and Data & Privacy pages. We’re also creating a single, comprehensive information hub that highlights key location settings to help people make informed choices about their data.

The process for deleting the information is also getting a makeover. A new combined control for turning off Location History and Web & App Activity is coming.

And lastly, the onboarding experience when setting up a new Google account will discuss what these settings do.

That will be about “how it helps [their] Google experience,” so we expect this will gently push the user into agreeing.

Another coalition of four state attorneys general is also suing Google. This lawsuit is for the same misleading location tracking policies.

The State of Arizona also received an $85 million settlement from Google over the same location tracking issue.

We wouldn’t like to bet, but the smart money is on the state attorneys general winning their lawsuit or forcing Google to settle, which is almost the same.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google hit with record $391 million settlement over shady tracking appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google’s Pixel Fold has been leaked in new renders https://knowtechie.com/google-pixel-fold-render-reveal/ Mon, 14 Nov 2022 20:53:59 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=255938 Google's first foldable is gorgeous.

The post Google’s Pixel Fold has been leaked in new renders appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
We’ve known Google had a Pixel Fold in the works for years, and now we know what it looks like.

Thanks to Jon Prosser over at FrontPageTech, who made a ton of renders based on actual images of the device that his source provided, we can see that Google is keeping things slim on its foldable.

Only two colors will be made, with Chalk (white) and Obsidian (black) versions hitting the market next year.

Pixel Fold is slim and seemingly crease-free

google pixel fold stood up folded and unfolded
Image: FrontPageTech

Google’s current Pixel design language is slim and refined. The Pixel Fold looks to continue that trend, looking more like one of the foldables from Chinese brands like Xiaomi than the chunkier Galaxy Fold devices.

The camera bar from the Pixel 7 is still there, except it’s been shortened to not go to the edge of the device.

The hinge assembly is slimmer than most of the competition, which might mean a visible crease when the Pixel Fold is unfolded flat.

google pixel fold flatlay
Image: FrontPageTech

We can also see that the Pixel Fold has a full-face external screen with a hole-punch selfie camera. The internal screen doesn’t appear to have a selfie camera, but it could be under-screen.

Prosser says that the Pixel Fold will be coming in May of 2023. The other big surprise is that the price will be the same as Samsung’s Galaxy Fold, starting at $1,799.

It looks like with the Pixel Fold, Google is ready to play with the big boys of the mobile market.

That will leave Apple as the only major mobile manufacturer without a foldable device. All current leaks point to a foldable iPad before an iPhone. Is that too late for the market? A billion iPhones disagree.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google’s Pixel Fold has been leaked in new renders appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
New Chrome update makes it easier to theme your browser https://knowtechie.com/new-chrome-update-makes-it-easier-to-theme-your-browser/ Mon, 14 Nov 2022 14:56:10 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=255824 Material You comes to the desktop browser.

The post New Chrome update makes it easier to theme your browser appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google is adding a feature that automatically picks colors for Google Chrome based on the wallpaper you use on the new tab page.

The feature is currently live in the Canary developer builds of Google Chrome. Changing the new tab wallpaper then themes the address bar and interface, so you get a pleasing, coherent design for Chrome.

Of course, you can manually change these color settings from your Chrome Profile section, but the automatic changing is definitely a nice addition.

You can see the color changing in the below GIF, thanks to Redditor u/Leopeva64-2, who first noticed the feature in early code commits.

via u/Leopeva64-2

Now the feature is live in the development builds of Google Chrome, under the Chrome flag: “chrome://flags/#customize-chrome-color-extraction.”

Turn the flag on, open a new tab, and change the wallpaper. The rest of Chrome’s interface should retheme to match the colors.

It’s very similar to Android’s Material You feature, which was first introduced in Android 12. At the time, Google said that the auto theming feature would make its way to every other Google product.

The Material You design language was expanded in Android 13. Google has brought the auto theming to several of its own Android apps.

The inclusion in desktop Chrome is the first time it has appeared on a non-Google operating system.

Windows 10 and 11 also have a similar feature, which picks the accent color for the taskbar and Start Menu based on the desktop background.

Google hasn’t said if the feature will be coming to the public builds of Chrome any time soon. Features often come to Canary’s beta builds months ahead of a wider release so that Google can iron out any bugs.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post New Chrome update makes it easier to theme your browser appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google is making it ridiculously easy to keep up with the World Cup https://knowtechie.com/google-is-making-it-ridiculously-easy-to-keep-up-with-the-world-cup/ Thu, 10 Nov 2022 17:51:09 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=255128 Search, Maps, and Google TV are all getting FIFA features.

The post Google is making it ridiculously easy to keep up with the World Cup appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google is rolling out new features to Search, Maps, and Google TV to help you keep up with the FIFA World Cup 2022.

The search giant has highlighted some features of Search that will help. On mobile, searching “World Cup” plus your favorite team will give you all the information any fan could want.

Hitting the bell icon on Android Search will give notifications about your team’s progress. That will include in-depth stats, win probabilities, and key events of every game.

You will also be able to pin the score to your Android home screen.

google search on android showing fifa world cup 2022
Image: KnowTechie

The desktop version of Search doesn’t have the notification toggle, but you can get the same deep statistical analysis.

All versions of Search will feature recap videos from FIFA+, the Football Association’s streaming service, and other official broadcasters like BBC, ZDF, and more.

Search has a new in-browser World Cup mobile game

Search is going to let people rate players and see how other users have rated them.

Additionally, a new multiplayer online game is also coming, where fans of a team will work together to flick virtual goals. You check that out in the GIF to the right.

It looks like a pretty basic game, but hey, it could be a great way to pass the time while you are waiting for match updates.

Other Google services are joining the fun

Devices powered by Google TV will have all matches, from group stages to knockouts to the final. Those will feature on the For You tab, with a new row full of all the FIFA content.

Google Maps will have a “Showing the World Cup” label that businesses can add to their profile. Searching “where to watch the world cup near me” will give a list of these venues.

google tv showing world cup 2022 content
Image: KnowTechie

Another Google-owned service, the popular navigation app Waze, is also getting World Cup fever. You’ll be able to change the navigation voice to talk like a soccer commentator.

Imagine hearing phrases like “Hazard reported ahead. Getting through that defense could prove tricky” or other commentator snippets.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 kicks off on November 20, with the final scheduled for December 18. 32 teams play each other through group stages and knockout stages to be crowned the winner.

The U.S. plays Wales on Monday, November 21, for its first game in the group stages. ESPN says the U.S. team has a “50% chance of advancement” as their group is deceptively difficult.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google is making it ridiculously easy to keep up with the World Cup appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
How to request a refund for Google Stadia https://knowtechie.com/how-to-request-a-refund-for-google-stadia/ Thu, 10 Nov 2022 15:14:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=244021 The service is going away, but you're entitled to a refund.

The post How to request a refund for Google Stadia appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>

UPDATE: 11/10/2022: Google has updated its original support article informing Staida users say that it began issuing refunds. Keep an eye on your bank account if you’re expecting a refund from Stadia. The company still says it will attempt to process most refunds before January 18, 2023. The original article continues below.

Google announced today that its game streaming service, Google Stadia, is closing on January 18, 2023.

The company also announced that every person who bought hardware or games on the service would get a full refund.

While it is sad to see the service go, providing refunds is great to see. How many other closed services have offered to fully reimburse you for things you might have bought years ago?

Stadia lasted three years as a standalone service. So when should you expect those refunds, and what do you need to do to get one? We did some digging, and here’s what we found out.

So, how do I get in touch with Google to get my Stadia refund?

Short answer: You don’t, refunds should be automated.

Google’s Stadia FAQ says that “all Stadia hardware purchases… …made through the Google Store” will be eligible for a refund. So will all software transactions that were done through the Stadia Store.

The FAQ also says you won’t have to do anything (in most cases) to get your refund.

The company is going through the Google Store and Stadia Store purchase histories and will automatically process refunds to your original purchase method.

Image: Google

Google intends to “have the majority of refunds processed… …by January 18, 2023.” They ask users not to bombard Support until then, and the support team cannot expedite your refund.

What isn’t mentioned is third-party storefronts like Amazon or Best Buy. We’ll have to wait and see if Google has some special arrangement for those users or if they’re out of pocket.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post How to request a refund for Google Stadia appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
New Gmail update lets you track packages directly in your inbox https://knowtechie.com/new-gmail-update-lets-you-track-packages-directly-in-your-inbox/ Thu, 03 Nov 2022 14:23:50 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=253774 Just in time for the holiday season.

The post New Gmail update lets you track packages directly in your inbox appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
A new Gmail update in the next few weeks will let you track your incoming packages from the app’s homepage.

In a blog post on its website earlier this week, Google shared a look at an upcoming Gmail feature ahead of the holiday season.

The update aims to help with the tedious task of keeping up with your package shipments through email.

gmail shipment tracking opt in message on purple knowtechie background
Image: Google

If you enable the new shipment tracking feature, Gmail will show you glances at shipping information for any email regarding delivery.

You’ll get little snippets like “Label Created,” “Arriving Tomorrow,” or “Delivered Today.” Those short messages will show in the Gmail inbox under the subject line of emails with tracking information.

Plus, the feature will also populate individual emails. For example, emails with tracking numbers will show a summary of shipment information at the top when you open the message.

You can see when an order was shipped or delivered. The summary will also include a link that you can click to head to the actual tracking website.

gmail shipment tracking in inbox and email on purple knowtechie background
Image: KnowTechie

The feature will require you to opt in. You’ll be able to opt-in directly from your inbox when the feature becomes available. And you can always opt out through your Gmail settings.

Package tracking right from your inbox sounds like a nice quality-of-life feature from Gmail. We’ve all likely experienced the struggle of searching through our inbox to find shipping information to track that package we ordered.

Adding these glances at package tracking inside the Gmail app might make that process less of a headache.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post New Gmail update lets you track packages directly in your inbox appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google Lens is now directly in Search: here’s how to use it https://knowtechie.com/google-lens-is-now-in-search-heres-how-to-use-it/ Thu, 03 Nov 2022 12:46:35 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=253453 Google Search now has integrated Google Lens.

The post Google Lens is now directly in Search: here’s how to use it appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google has integrated Google Lens into its homepage search bar.

Now all you need to search through the internet is an image or the URL of an image you’ve found online. That expands the number of devices you can use Google Lens on dramatically.

The visual search assistant started as a Pixel phone perk before releasing as a standalone Android app. Then iOS users got access, followed by mobile Chrome and desktop browsers last year.

Now it’s prominently part of Google’s homepage, showing how dedicated the company is to using visual search in the future.

We’ve been playing around with the new feature, and it’s pretty handy. Here’s how to use it.

Here’s how to use Google Lens from Google’s homepage

Google Lens is a valuable tool that was previously limited to mobile devices for the longest time.

Now you can use visual search from desktop or any internet browser by going to Google’s homepage.

  1. Open google.com in your browser and click on the Lens icongoogle homepage highlighting the lens button

  2. Upload the image you want to use Lens on, or use an URL of an image and click Searchgoogle homepage showing lens options

  3. Lens will search, and return what it thinks are relevant results. You can Search, select Text on your image, or Translate any text.screenshot of google lens image search results

Earlier this year, Lens was added to Google Chrome’s right-click menu. That enabled an easy way to use the power of Lens to search images from any website you are browsing.

Google wants to add more functionality to what it calls multisearch. That’s ways to search that don’t require the exact keywords that normal text-based search runs on.

That way, your smartphone’s camera can be the search terms, and all you have to do is point.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google Lens is now directly in Search: here’s how to use it appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google is killing the standalone Street View app next year https://knowtechie.com/google-is-killing-the-standalone-street-view-app-next-year/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 16:07:25 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=253562 But Street View will live on in the Google Maps app.

The post Google is killing the standalone Street View app next year appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
After seven years, Google has decided to kill the standalone Street View app since most users head to Google Maps to check out the feature.

The days of the standalone Street View app are numbered, as discovered by 9to5Google in a previously unreleased notice found in the code of the latest Street View updates.

Madison Gouveia, a spokesperson for Google, later confirmed the shutdown to The Verge. The app will lose all support on March 31, 2023. And it’s going away from app stores in the next few weeks.

google maps street view in san francisco
Image: KnowTechie

Google started Street View as a web app back in 2007. The company eventually added it to the Google Maps mobile app, and launched the standalone Street View app for Android and iOS years later, in 2015.

The standalone app allowed users to upload spherical pictures from their phones or cameras for spots that Google’s Street View car had yet to reach with a feature called Photo Spheres.

Google also added a new feature called Photo Paths last year. Photo Paths let you upload normal, 2D pictures that it would compile for Street View blind spots.

street view orange sculpture wisconsin avenue
Image: KnowTechie

Street View will live on as a feature in Google Maps for mobile and web. Plus, Google added Photo Spheres to the maps app. So you’ll still be able to upload 360-degree images.

But Photo Paths will be gone for good when the Street View app dies on March 31. You’ll still be able to see any uploaded Photo Path photos, but you won’t be able to add any more.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post Google is killing the standalone Street View app next year appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
New Chrome feature tracks product prices across the web https://knowtechie.com/new-chrome-feature-tracks-product-prices-across-the-web/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 13:47:51 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=253465 Plus, compare search results from a side panel without having to click back and forth.

The post New Chrome feature tracks product prices across the web appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
A new Google Chrome update will add a feature that lets you track the prices of specific products across several online stores simultaneously.

The feature was revealed in a blog post from Chrome earlier this week. It will eventually allow you to track the price of a certain product across several online stores with the push of a button.

When you navigate to a listing for the product you’re looking for, there will be a new button that says Track price on the right side of your address bar.

google chrome track prices feature on purple kt background
Image: KnowTechie

Clicking that button brings up the option to track the product’s price. Google will email you whenever Chrome detects price drops on any website.

We say ‘eventually’ because the feature isn’t quite out yet. Google didn’t share exactly when the feature will make its way to the public. But we should start to see it in the next few weeks.

Google Search is getting another small update that lets you compare search results. When searching, there will be a new ‘Open search in side panel’ option that also shows up in the address bar.

google chrome search side panel on purple kt backgound
Image: KnowTechie

Toggling this option will open the Google search results page in a side panel. Then, you can click on search results to open them on the main screen while browsing the results in the side panel.

This will be a super useful feature for comparing different search results from Google.

Again, Google didn’t say exactly when this feature is coming out. But it will likely start rolling out gradually to users over the next few weeks.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

The post New Chrome feature tracks product prices across the web appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Pixel 7 release date: When was the Pixel 7 released? https://knowtechie.com/pixel-7-release-date-when-is-the-google-pixel-7-coming-out/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 11:10:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=224690 It's out now, but for how long?

The post Pixel 7 release date: When was the Pixel 7 released? appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>
Google revealed its new lineup at its fall event, including the Pixel 7, Pixel Watch, and a teaser for 2023’s Pixel Tablet.

Google typically launches its new phones in the fall of every year. The press event is near the beginning of October, and the phone comes out about a week later.

But what about the Pixel 7? Did Google follow the same release pattern as previous flagships, or was something different this year? Let’s dive in.

When did the Google Pixel 7 come out?

Short answer: October 13.

It is now official. Google announced the Pixel 7 on October 6, and preorders started on the same day. And, as it has done in the past, Google released the phone a week later, on October 13.

google pixel 7 over a purple background
Image: KnowTechie

The new Pixel 7 was released with several improvements over the Pixel 6. It features an all-day battery and a display that can go up to 25 percent brighter.

It also came with several new camera features like photo unblur, cinematic blur, and ultrawide selfies using the front camera.

The rear camera bar has a 50-megapixel primary camera alongside an additional 12-megapixel ultrawide camera.

screenshot of pixel 7 details
Image: Google

Google continues to improve the design and performance of its Pixel phone lineup while maintaining an affordable price.

The Pixel 7 starts at just $599 (Google | Best Buy), an extremely attractive price compared to other flagship smartphones today.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Pixel 7 release date: When was the Pixel 7 released? appeared first on KnowTechie.

]]>