Update 7/27/21: Virtual card now rolling out to some users! According to 9to5Google, Google Pay users who have the new application installed on their devices will soon be able to utilize their Pay balance to buy things in brick and mortar retail locations via NFC. Previously, one could only use a credit or debit card […]
Continue ReadingGoogle Docs improves braille mode with detailed inline suggestions
Google is improving its support for braille mode in Docs so that those using screen readers and refreshable braille displays can interact with suggestions in their documents easier. Basically, inline detailed suggestion information will be audible out loud alongside the rest of the text in the document. This also includes whether or not the suggestion […]
Continue ReadingGoogle is doing a double-take on its FLoC timeline and will split rollout into two phases
Google’s Federated Learning of Cohorts – or FLoC – is a transition the company is making to move away from third-party cookies in its browser and towards an approach that groups individuals together based on different interest groups for advertising as opposed to targeting them specifically. Upon being introduced, it was immediately faced with backlash […]
Continue ReadingYou’ll soon be able to change your Chromebook’s name so it’s easier to identify
A hostname is used to distinguish devices within a local network. Not only that, but computers can be located by others this way, and can interface with them through a network. You’ve long since been able to change your hostname on other operating systems, and for those who don’t use their devices on a network […]
Continue ReadingGoogle is factory resetting its Wear OS efforts, details upgrade eligibility and devices
Over on the Wear OS by Google Help center, a community manager detailed what Wear OS 3, the company’s big upgrade to its struggling smartwatch operating system, will mean for users. We heard back in May that a new version of the OS would be released, but we had not heard details on exactly when […]
Continue ReadingSpam, block, delete – Google’s solution to Drive file sharing abuse is practical but short term
Over the past few years, users have been receiving spam in Google Drive – files that are shared with them that they didn’t ask for from people they don’t know. Until now, the company hasn’t really had a solution to this, but now, it’s implementing something that should help cut down on the abuse – […]
Continue ReadingGet 3 free months of HBO Max when you buy a Chromecast with Google TV
Google’s new Chromecast with Google TV needs no introduction at this point. Practically everyone has heard of it or owns it and it’s quickly become an immensely popular successor to the company’s previous dongle. Not long ago, a Netflix bundle that included the device and 6 months of the streaming service for just one price […]
Continue ReadingStadia is preparing to let you use your phone as a game controller on Android TV devices
In addition to being able to use third-party game controllers on your TV with Stadia to play your favorite titles, Google’s game streaming platform is now adding the option to connect up your phone as a controller for Android TV users, according to 9to5Google’s latest APK teardown of the app. With what’s being called ‘Bridge […]
Continue ReadingThe 2nd generation Google Pixel Buds have been discontinued in favor of the new A-Series
Google’s new Pixel Buds A-Series have recently hit the market, and with an affordable $99 price tag and streamlined features, it’s hard not to buy them. We usually see previous iterations of hardware stick around for a year or two after the launch of its successor before the company yanks them from the market, but […]
Continue ReadingHow to make Google Assistant’s Workday Reminders work for you, not against you
Earlier this week, I discussed how enabling Google Assistant’s Workday Reminders was a decision that I sorely regret, and while I stick with everything I said regarding how frustrating and overwhelming they were to use, I wanted to avoid complaining about it without providing a solution. Through my experience with this feature, I’ve compiled a […]
Continue ReadingGoogle Maps integrates Trips, adds live crowdedness indicators for transit, more
Now that millions of people are trying to get back to normal life as best they can, Google has stepped in once again as they have through the entire pandemic to assist. Google Maps is gaining several new features that will help you reminisce and plan for the future as you figure out what traveling […]
Continue ReadingHow to fix Google Chrome’s ‘Nearly up-to-date’ infinite loop issue on Windows
Recently, I’ve been test-driving Windows 11 to draw as many comparisons and contrasts from it as I can to Chrome OS both for fun and for research. I’ve concluded that Windows 11 borrowed more than a few things from Chrome OS, and the fact that that is not such a bad thing after all. Recently, […]
Continue ReadingHow to customize your Chrome browser’s new tab page or remove the NTP modules
Google Chrome’s new tab page (NTP) is a sacred space. It’s where you go as a starting point for a Google Search (unless you’re using a Chromebook) and where you quickly access recent websites. Aside from that, it’s become understood that this space is not to be messed with in any way, shape, or form. […]
Continue ReadingA full-fledged Google Lens for web is shipping with Chrome 92, but accessing it isn’t obvious
Google Lens, the tech giant’s image recognition tool that utilizes machine learning, artificial intelligence, and computer vision is now rolling out to Chrome for desktop. Previously, it existed only on mobile and users had to point their phones at something to get information either in real-time or by snapping a photo and scanning it. You […]
Continue ReadingMagic Word is a new word puzzle game for smart displays that uses GIFs as clues
My son is a big fan of playing games like Mad Libs and Lucky Trivia on our Nest Hub. Funny enough, he actually discovered them for himself thanks to Google’s efforts to put them in the spotlight for families over the past year. While we haven’t seen many new games as of late, however, I […]
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