Tech Patrol

Etiket: android

  • # Is Google Play Games Headed for the Tech Graveyard? Features May Be Integrated into the Play Store

    ## Is Google Play Games Headed for the Tech Graveyard? Features May Be Integrated into the Play Store

    Google Play Games, the app that allows Android users to track achievements and connect with other gamers, might be facing an uncertain future. Reports suggest that Google is quietly incorporating key features of the Play Games app directly into the Google Play Store, hinting at a potential sunsetting of the standalone app.

    According to a report by *Android Police*, this move suggests that Google Play Games might be destined for the infamous “Google Graveyard,” a term used to describe discontinued Google products.

    The speculation is further fueled by observations from APK teardown specialist AssembleDebug. In a post on X, AssembleDebug noted the lack of significant updates to the Google Play Games app’s user interface and features in recent months. Conversely, they discovered updates within the Google Play Store app itself that include upcoming Gamer Profiles and the ability to “follow” other users. Notably, the Play Store appears to already be tracking user achievements.

    Google Play Games was originally launched in 2013 as Google’s answer to Apple’s Game Center. At the time, smartphone gaming was rapidly gaining popularity and directly competing with portable gaming consoles. As is often the case with Google, features are sometimes migrated between apps as they mature. A recent example of this is the transition from Google Pay to Google Wallet.

    It’s important to differentiate between the Google Play Games app on Android and the Google Play Games for PC service. The PC service allows users to play select Android games on Windows computers and has been in beta for over three years. Just last month, Google announced plans to add even more games to the PC platform.

    While Google continues to invest in the Google Play Games for PC platform, the future of the Android app looks increasingly grim. The integration of its features into the Play Store seems to suggest that Google Play Games for Android is on a path towards redundancy and eventual discontinuation. Whether this will improve user experience and streamline the gaming ecosystem remains to be seen.

  • # Android Takes Center Stage: Google Announces Dedicated Event Ahead of I/O 2025

    ## Android Takes Center Stage: Google Announces Dedicated Event Ahead of I/O 2025

    Google is shaking up its I/O playbook this year, announcing a dedicated Android event to be held a week *before* its flagship developer conference. Dubbed “The Android Show: I/O Edition,” the event promises a deep dive into the future of Android and will be streamed live on YouTube and the Android website on May 13th at 10AM PT / 1PM ET.

    This pre-I/O showcase, featuring Android ecosystem president Sameer Samat, signals a shift in Google’s strategy. Traditionally, Android updates have been a central highlight of Google I/O. However, recent years have seen the spotlight increasingly shared with other burgeoning technologies, particularly those centered around Artificial Intelligence.

    The move suggests that Google is preparing to place a larger emphasis on its AI initiatives, such as Gemini and the intriguing Project Astra, during the main I/O event kicking off on May 20th. As Samat himself teased, “We’ll be sharing news now to get you ready for I/O where we’ll have even more special announcements and surprises in store.” This implies that the Android Show will serve as a dedicated platform to unveil substantial Android updates, allowing I/O to focus on broader technological advancements.

    While Android will still maintain a presence at I/O through keynotes and technical sessions for developers, this separate event signifies its evolution from *the* main event to a key, yet distinct, pillar within Google’s broader technological landscape.

    In recent years, Google I/O has broadened its focus. Last year, the conversation revolved heavily around the AI-driven redesign of Google Search, and the integration of Gemini AI across various Android services like Docs, Gmail, and Calendar. Android 15 features like AI-powered scam call detection, Circle to Search, and Theft Detection Lock were showcased, but Android wasn’t the dominating force it once was.

    By carving out dedicated space for Android, Google is ensuring that the platform receives the focused attention it deserves. This new strategy promises a deeper, more comprehensive look at what’s in store for the future of Android, setting the stage for an even more exciting Google I/O 2025. Developers and Android enthusiasts alike should mark their calendars for May 13th – the future of Android is coming into focus.

  • # Google’ın Akıllı Etiket Ağı Hala İyi mi? Bir Yıllık İnceleme

    ## Google’ın Akıllı Etiket Ağı Hala İyi mi? Bir Yıllık İnceleme

    Google’ın uzun zamandır beklenen “Cihazımı Bul” ağı, 2024 yılının Nisan ayında piyasaya sürüldüğünde büyük bir coşku yaratmadı. Ağın yavaş yayılımı ve olumsuz eleştiriler, Android destekli Apple AirTag rakiplerinin ortaya çıkması beklenen heyecanı azalttı. Ancak teknolojide bir yıl uzun bir süre ve Google, Cihazımı Bul özelliğini ilk etkinleştirdiğinden beri iyileştirmeler vaat ediyor. Peki, bir yıl sonra işler düzeldi mi?

    Bu soruyu yanıtlamak için Pebblebee, Chipolo ve Motorola gibi uyumlu modeller üreten üç ana şirketin en son izleyicileri test edildi. Şu anda Google’ın kendi Pixel veya Nest markalı bir izleyicisi bulunmuyor ve Samsung’un SmartTag’leri Google’ın değil, kendi SmartThings Bul ağını kullanıyor. Google’ın ana rakiplerini daha iyi anlamak amacıyla Apple AirTag ve Tile izleyicileri de karşılaştırma için kullanıldı.

    Yapılan testler sonucunda, ağın piyasaya sürülmesinden bu yana geçen bir yılda belirgin bir şekilde iyileşme kaydedildiği görüldü. Yoğun bir şehirde, hareket etmeyen bir izleyici ile iyi koşullarda, Apple ve Tile kadar iyi performans gösteriyor. Ancak kırsal alanlarda veya hareket halindeki etiketleri izlemek gibi daha zorlu durumlarda, Google ile rakipleri arasında hala bir fark bulunuyor.

    Özetle, Google’ın akıllı etiket ağı umut vadeden bir başlangıç yapmış olsa da, hala geliştirilmesi gereken alanlar mevcut. Şehir içi kullanımda ve durağan nesneleri takip etmede başarılı olsa da, daha zorlu senaryolarda rakiplerinin gerisinde kalabiliyor. Google’ın bu eksiklikleri gidermeye odaklanması, ağın gelecekteki başarısı için kritik öneme sahip olacak.

  • # Google’s Find My Device Network: One Year Later, Has It Finally Found Its Footing?

    ## Google’s Find My Device Network: One Year Later, Has It Finally Found Its Footing?

    A year after its less-than-stellar debut, Google’s Find My Device network is under the microscope. Launched with the promise of creating a robust Android-powered alternative to Apple’s AirTag, the initial rollout was hampered by a slow start and underwhelming reviews. But a year is an eternity in the tech world, and Google has consistently pledged improvements. So, has the Find My Device network finally lived up to its potential?

    According to recent testing, the answer is a qualified yes. The experiment involved evaluating the latest trackers from the primary manufacturers utilizing Google’s network: Pebblebee, Chipolo, and Motorola. Notably, Google doesn’t currently offer its own Pixel or Nest-branded tracker, and Samsung continues to rely on its SmartThings Find network for its SmartTags. For comparative analysis, an Apple AirTag and a Tile tracker were also included to benchmark Google’s performance against established competitors.

    The results indicate a significant improvement over the past year. In optimal conditions – think bustling urban environments with stationary trackers – Google’s network holds its own against both Apple and Tile. The technology proves reliable in densely populated areas where signal strength and network density are higher.

    However, the story changes when conditions become more challenging. The investigation revealed a notable performance gap in rural settings and when tracking moving objects. In these scenarios, the network’s limitations become apparent, and the competition maintains a distinct advantage.

    While Google’s Find My Device network has made strides in the past year, it still has ground to cover to truly rival the capabilities of Apple’s AirTag and Tile, especially in more demanding tracking scenarios. The network has improved and it now performs just as well in ideal conditions, but there’s still a gap in tougher environments. To read the full analysis, check out The Verge’s complete report.

  • # OnePlus 13R Review: A Battery Champion with a Catch, or Why the Pixel 9A Might Still Be King

    ## OnePlus 13R Review: A Battery Champion with a Catch, or Why the Pixel 9A Might Still Be King

    The OnePlus 13R arrives as a compelling contender in the crowded midrange phone market, specifically tailored for users prioritizing two key features: exceptional battery life and a stunning display. This streamlined version of the flagship OnePlus 13 inherits some impressive DNA, but at an MSRP of $599, it begs the question: is it a better buy than the more affordable Google Pixel 9A?

    One of the 13R’s strongest selling points is undoubtedly its battery. The review highlights its longevity, hinting at multi-day usage – a significant advantage for power users. Complementing this is a vibrant 6.78-inch OLED panel with a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. The 1264 x 2780 resolution ensures crisp visuals, making it stand out in its price range, particularly for those seeking a large, high-quality display. Brightness isn’t an issue either, even under direct sunlight. The always-on display presents a minor visibility challenge in bright conditions, but it’s a relatively small drawback.

    However, the OnePlus 13R’s appeal isn’t without its limitations. Despite sharing flagship lineage, it lacks some features that provide long-term peace of mind. The biggest concern is its IP65 rating, offering dust resistance and protection against splashes, but not the full water resistance found in competitors like the Pixel 9A. Furthermore, the Pixel 9A promises seven years of OS updates, a significant advantage for users planning to keep their phone for the long haul.

    Ultimately, the decision to choose the OnePlus 13R over the $499 Pixel 9A hinges on individual priorities. If battery life and display quality are paramount, and you’re willing to forgo guaranteed long-term software support and full water resistance, the 13R might be the right choice. However, for those seeking a more well-rounded package with guaranteed updates and enhanced durability, the Pixel 9A remains a strong contender. As the original article aptly suggests, the “particular kind of person you are” will ultimately dictate which phone emerges as the victor.

  • # OnePlus 13R İncelemesi: Belki de Pixel 9A Almak Daha Mantıklı

    ## OnePlus 13R İncelemesi: Belki de Pixel 9A Almak Daha Mantıklı

    Allison Johnson’ın The Verge için kaleme aldığı OnePlus 13R incelemesi, bu orta segment telefonun hedef kitlesini sorguluyor ve potansiyel alıcılara Pixel 9A’yı da göz önünde bulundurmalarını öneriyor. OnePlus 13’ün kırpılmış bir versiyonu olan 13R, amiral gemisi DNA’sını taşısa da, tam su geçirmezlik ve yedi yıl boyunca yeni işletim sistemi sürümleri gibi Pixel 9A’da bulunan iç rahatlatıcı özelliklerden yoksun. Ayrıca, 599 dolarlık fiyat etiketiyle de tam olarak ucuz sayılmaz.

    Ancak, bu dezavantajlarına rağmen OnePlus 13R, özellikle pil ömrü ve ekran konusunda iddialı. Telefon, 120Hz’e kadar değişken yenileme hızına sahip büyük bir 6.78 inç OLED panel sunuyor. 1264 x 2780 çözünürlüğü sayesinde görüntü keskinliği tatmin edici seviyede. ABD pazarında satılan orta segment telefonlar arasında bu kadar büyük ve gösterişli bir ekran bulmak zor. Ekran parlaklığı doğrudan güneş ışığında bile yeterli seviyede kalıyor ve parlaklık seviyesini koruyor. Always-on ekran özelliği ise, güneş ışığında ekranı uyandırmadan görmekte zorlanabileceğiniz küçük bir dezavantaj olarak belirtiliyor.

    OnePlus 13R, IP65 sertifikasına sahip, yani toza karşı tamamen dayanıklı ve ciddi su sıçramalarına karşı koyabiliyor. Ancak bu, telefonun tamamen su geçirmez olduğu anlamına gelmiyor.

    Peki, 499 dolarlık Pixel 9A’ya kıyasla OnePlus 13R almaya değer mi? Yazarın cevabı, bunun sizin ne tür bir kullanıcı olduğunuza bağlı olduğu yönünde. Eğer uzun pil ömrü ve büyük bir ekran sizin için öncelikliyse, OnePlus 13R’ı değerlendirebilirsiniz. Ancak, tam su geçirmezlik ve uzun süreli yazılım güncellemeleri sizin için daha önemliyse, Pixel 9A daha iyi bir seçenek olabilir.