Google Assistant heads to the Play Store for faster updates

The new listing of Google Assistant on the Play Store allows for faster updates and a new app icon shortcut.

Since its launch with the original Pixel and Pixel XL last fall, the Google Assistant has come a long way. We’ve seen an expansion of the service to devices running Android Marshmallow and above, plenty of new features, and even customization of how it sounds. In the latest update, Google is pushing the Assistant to the Play Store for a speedier and more streamlined update process.

This is a move that we’ve seen time and time again from Google and other companies, as it allows for software updates to be pushed out considerably faster than relying on server-side releases or having to update the entire OS itself.

Along with the presumably faster update process, this also means that you can now add a shortcut for the Google Assistant in your app drawer and on your home screen. As long as you have a phone running Android Marshmallow, Nougat, or Oreo, you can download the Assistant from the Play Store and get a new app icon for it. This doesn’t add any new functionality, but it does offer a new way to prompt it if you’d rather not say “Ok, Google” or hold down on your home button.

Also, if you have a phone or tablet running Lollipop or older, don’t think that this means you’ll magically be able to get Google Assistant on your device. Try to do so, and you’ll receive a message saying that the app is incompatible with your device.

How to set up and customize Google Assistant

Android Oreo

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• Oreo will make you love notifications again
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Grab a Sonos Play:1 for $140 or Play:5 for $399 from Amazon

Voice control through Amazon’s Alexa has finally arrived on Sonos speakers in a public beta form, and to celebrate the company has launched some great deals at Amazon. These speakers don’t go on sale often, so anytime you can pick one up at a discount is a great time to buy one.

Right now you can save $60 on the Sonos Play:1 and $100 on the Sonos Play:5 at Amazon. The Play:1 is the smallest speaker from the company and its most affordable option. The Play:5 is the largest, and more expensive option. Both speakers can be paired with something like an Echo Dot to allow you to control your music playback using your voice.

• Sonos Play:1 – $140 with coupon code SONOSPLAY1
• Sonos Play:5 – $399 with coupon code SONOSPLAY5

You can also order these using Alexa. To order the Play:1 you’ll say “Alexa, order a (black / white) Sonos Play:1”, and for the Play:5 you’ll say “Alexa, order a (black / white) Sonos Play:5”.

This promotion is scheduled to run through October 10, or while supplies last. The discounts will only apply to speakers sold and shipped by Amazon.com, so be sure to check the listing before making your purchase.

If you’re looking for Sonos’ latest speaker, the Sonos One, you can pre-order one directly from the company right now for $199, and it will be officially available starting October 24.

More from Thrifter

• How to prevent your kids from making purchases with Alexa
• How to get hotel room upgrades for free

For more great deals be sure to check out our friends at Thrifter now!

Google Pixel 2 will offer even faster charge speeds with a 27W adapter

The Pixel 2 comes with an 18W charger out of the box, but you’ll be able to take advantage of 27W charging with the right adapter.

The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL bring a lot of goodies to the table, but while these two phones get a lot right, one feature that’s noticeably absent from the handsets is wireless charging. Google is hoping to make up for this with cabled fast-charging, and thanks to the comment from one Googler, you’ll be able to top up the Pixel 2 even faster than we initially thought.

Out of the box, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will come with an 18W USB-C power adapter that allows for seven hours of battery life in just 15 minutes. That’s not a small number by any means, but if you manage to get your hands on a compliant power delivery charger, you’ll be able to use a power adapter up to 27W with the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL.

Faster charge rates than 7 hours in 15 minutes? Count us interested.

A jump from 18W to 27W is quite substantial, and this means you’ll be able to get even faster charging speeds than what Google offers by default. Not including the most powerful charger might seem like a cash-grab from the company, but you’ll still be able to get insanely fast top-up speeds with the regular 18W adapter. However, if you want even faster rates, you have that option available to you. (Fear not, this isn’t like what Apple is doing with its latest batch of iPhones).

If you want to pick up a 27W adapter while waiting for your Pixel 2 preorder to arrive, make sure that you purchase one that’s compliant for 27W power delivery and from a brand that you trust to ensure you don’t do any damage to your shiny new device.

See at Amazon

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Best Google Pixel 2 Cases

Enhance the funky look of your Google Pixel 2 with the right case!

Google unveiled the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL and they look great! Whether you love the design and want to enhance it, or simply looking for drop protection for your new phone, there’s a case that’s perfect for you.

At initial launch, your best options are Google’s own line of customizable cases, but there are a few third-party cases already available that might catch your eye with plenty more of Google-certified third-party accessories coming soon. We’ll be keeping this article updated as more options become available. These are the best cases for the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL… for now!

Google Designed Cases

During the Pixel event, Google unveiled its expected line of cool new cases brewed in-house for the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. If you’re planning to order your phone straight from the source, you can simply add these accessories to your Google Store checkout and keep your new Pixel 2 phone protected with style right out of the box. These are also guaranteed to work with the Pixel 2’s Active Edge functionality, so you can always access Google Assistant with just a quick squeeze.

First up is the customizable Google Live Cases, which give you the option of customizing the back of your Pixel 2 with a personal photo or a wide range of styles curated by Google.

For instance, you can choose a gorgeous satellite photo from Google Earth, and the case will pair with a matching live wallpaper for a cohesive look around your device that’s absolutely gorgeous. Looking to add a bit more of an artistic flair to your case? Check out the Artworks Live Case and find something that matches your style. Google has curated a great selection of cases that feature artwork, photos from space, and naturally beautiful images that are really quite stunning. Prices range from $50 to $65 depending on the styling and your choice of a minimalist shell or a more rugged dual-layer case.

Last but not least is the Google Fabric Cases which brings the look and most importantly the feel of the fabric finish found on other Google products, like the Home Mini and even the DayDream View. These cases offer a premium microfiber liner and your choice of four color combinations for $50.

See at Google

Caseology cases for Pixel 2 XL

Caseology has three styles of cases available for the larger Pixel 2 XL, but sadly nothing for the 5-inch Pixel 2.

These cases appear to have a strip of grippy TPU along the sides of the phone, which should allow for the Active Edge feature. We’ve chosen to feature the Vault Series ($13) because it’s got a classic design. Made of flexible TPU, it features a sleek finish along the back and textured grip around the edges. It’s available in black and should look great whether you went with the Just Black or Black and White Pixel 2 XL.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, check out the Parralax Series ($16) which offers a slim, two-piece design to keep your Pixel well-protected. It’s also available in some really cool color combinations.

Finally, there’s the Legion Series ($17), which offers a more rugged matte shell around the back of the case — but we can’t confirm how this case might interfere with the Active Edge. It’s a classic, sleek case design that’s available in warm gray and copper gold.

See at Amazon

LK Slim Thin Pixel 2 Case

For those who want a cheap clear case to keep your phone protected without obscuring the Pixel 2’s cool design, LK has a minimalist case for just $8.

If you go with the clear case, you’ll barely notice it at all and it won’t add much bulk to the phone. There’s also more colorful options like purple and mint green as well as a classic black look. Because it’s made of flexible TPU and is thin, it should not impede the use of the Active Edge functionality.

This case offers decent protection from anyone prone to dropping a new phone.

Every. Time. sigh.

See at Amazon

Is the Pixel 2 too pretty for a case?

What do you think of the Google Pixel 2’s design? Too cool to cover with a case? Which cases are you interested in? Let us know in the comments!

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

• Google Pixel 2 and 2 XL hands-on: Act two is great
• Google Pixel 2 specs
• Google Pixel 2 vs. Pixel 2 XL: What’s the difference?
• Pixel 2 vs iPhone 8: Camera Showdown
• Pixel 2 FAQ: Everything you need to know!
• Join our Pixel 2 forums

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Microsoft’s Edge browser comes to iOS and Android for beta testing

Microsoft’s new mobile strategy? Bring as many of its services as it can to other platforms. That started with Microsoft Office and Cortana, and it’s continuing with its Edge browser, which is available in beta on iOS and Android today. For now, the early version of the mobile browser is only available to Windows Insiders, which requires a Windows 10 PC to sign up. iOS users will be able to access it through Testflight, while Android users can snag it through Google Play’s app testing service.

Edge’s minimalist style on Windows carries over to its iOS and Android mobile apps. The mobile browser also synchronizes with your experience on the desktop, allowing you to easily continue what you’re reading on a Windows 10 machine. And of course, bookmarks, reading list and passwords will get synchronized, as well. Aside from a built-in QR code reader, there’s not much differentiating Edge from mobile browsers, though.

Microsoft plans to officially release Edge on iOS and Android later this year. Today’s beta release also doesn’t support iPads and Android tablets, but the company says it’ll work with slates eventually.

Source: Microsoft, (2)

Microsoft Launcher offers ‘Continue on PC’ option for Android phones

Microsoft is taking a step to make bridging your life between your phone and PC a little easier, at least for Android users. Today they announced Microsoft Launcher, which gives you the option to “Continue on PC,” allowing you to work seamlessly between your Android phone and Windows computer. It’s similar to the Handoff feature on Apple products.

Android phones allow users to customize what’s called a “launcher” that appears when you press the Home button — a feature that iPhone doesn’t have. Microsoft Launcher, which is based on Fluent design, allows you to further customize what you see. In addition to “Continue on PC,” you can place icons of your favorite people on your home screen. It also offers The Feed, where you can find your most-used apps, recent news, important events and more, all tailored to your needs. You can access The Feed by swiping right.

Microsoft Launcher also offers full customization capabilities. Not only do you have the ability to change backgrounds, but it offers “gesture” support to make you as productive as possible. The app is available in Preview for now, and it’s open to any Android user. If you’re on the Arrow Launcher beta, you’ll automatically get the Microsoft Launcher update. Support for Continue on PC will arrive with the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update.

Via: The Verge

Source: Microsofy

NASA’s inflatable ISS habitat could stay in space until 2020

The Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) was only supposed to stay attached to the ISS for two years. It’s been performing well enough in its technological demonstration, however, that NASA now wants to extend its stint for three more years. Astronauts aboard the ISS installed BEAM in early 2016 as an experiment, with the intention of regularly checking its integrity, conducting radiation shielding experiments and collecting microbial air and surface samples from within its confines. The results of those tests prove that the module is tough enough to survive the harsh conditions of outer space for far longer than its original lifespan.

While Bigelow Aerospace ultimately wants its expandable habitat to serve as living quarters, it’s way too early to expect astronauts to live inside the module. BEAM will instead serve as storage space to hold up to 130 cargo transfer bags used to transport supplies from a spacecraft to the station.

Its new role will free up space inside the ISS for more experiments. It will also allow NASA to learn more about modular habitats’ structural integrity, thermal stability and resistance to space debris, radiation and microbial growth. The extended experimental period could bring us closer to the independent inflatable stations Bigelow Aerospace wants to send to low-Earth orbit.

Based on the procurement filing NASA submitted, the new contract will overlap with the older one and will begin later this year. By the end of the new three-year contract, the agency could choose to extend it for one more year or to finally jettison and allow it to burn as it enters our planet’s atmosphere.

Via: Ars Technica

Source: NASA, Federal Business Opportunities

Netflix raises prices on two of its most popular plans

Netflix is raising its prices for the first time in two years. Its most popular plan, which costs $10 for HD and viewing on two screens simultaneously, will increase by $1, to $11 per month. Their premium plan, which currently is priced at $12 for 4K and streaming on four screens simultaneously, will cost $14, a $2 increase. The price of the basic plan, which allows for one screen and SD viewing, remains unchanged at $8 per month.

The price change will take effect for current subscribers starting October 19, depending on their billing cycles. Subscribers will receive a 30-day notice before the higher prices take effect. New subscribers will see the price increase starting today. However, as the streaming service is spending more money on original content, subscribers shouldn’t be surprised that it’s reflected in pricing.

Update: Netflix responded to our request for more information with the following statement: “From time to time, Netflix plans and pricing are adjusted as we add more exclusive TV shows and movies, introduce new product features and improve the overall Netflix experience to help members find something great to watch even faster.

Source: USA Today

Facebook tests a feature that provides info on article publishers

Facebook is still working out how to reduce the reach of fake news and misinformation on its site and today, it starts testing a new feature that sounds like it might be pretty useful. When an article link is shared in someone’s News Feed, there will now be a small “i” button that will bring up additional information about the publisher and article when clicked. It will include information from the publisher’s Wikipedia page, a link to follow its Facebook Page, Trending and Related articles about the same topic and a graphic on where and how the article is being shared across Facebook. When any of that information isn’t available, Facebook will say that explicitly. That in itself is pretty useful. For example, if there’s no Wikipedia page for the publisher of the piece, it could mean it’s not a reputable outlet.

After coming to terms with the fact that its platform contributed to the spread of fake news during last year’s presidential election, Facebook has implemented a few features and regulations aimed at combating the problem. It trained its algorithms to deprioritize fake news and clickbait as well as articles shared by individuals who post at extremely high frequencies. It cut off fake news sites’ ad revenue and blocked advertisements created by Pages that share misinformation. Facebook also began introducing fact checked articles and compiling related articles that cover a Trending topic. Some of Facebook’s efforts appear to be having a positive effect — the site deleted tens of thousands of fake accounts ahead of the recent German election. But there have also been some missteps. Facebook spread quite a bit of fake news following this week’s massacre in Las Vegas.

Facebook says this information button test is just getting started. “We’ll continue to listen to people’s feedback and work with publishers to provide people easy access to the contextual information that helps people decide which stories to read, share, and trust, and to improve the experiences people have on Facebook,” it said in a statement.

Via: TechCrunch

Source: Facebook

Microsoft’s Edge Browser Coming to iPhone With ‘Continue on PC’ Feature

Microsoft today announced that its Edge web browser is coming to iOS, starting with a beta version for iPhone available today.

Microsoft Edge will primarily appeal to iPhone users that use a Windows PC instead of a Mac thanks to a “Continue on PC” feature that enables users to push a website from the mobile to desktop version of the browser, like Apple’s Handoff.

Continue on PC functionality on the desktop side will be part of the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update, available worldwide October 17.

The mobile version also includes access to favorites, history, a reading list, and e-books, but The Verge said tabs and history of what you browse on your smartphone are not shared to the desktop version of Edge yet.

“Microsoft’s Joe Belfiore says the company still has work to do on the desktop version of Edge to support this, but the company is hoping to enable this at some point in the future,” said reporter Tom Warren.

The report added that Bing, Google, and Yahoo can be set as the default search engine in Edge for iOS, which has a similar design as the desktop version. The mobile version doesn’t have Cortana or built-in ad blocking.

On iOS, Microsoft is using Apple’s WebKit engine, as required for all third-party browsers on the platform. From a compatibility perspective, Microsoft said Edge for iOS should match the version of Safari that is currently available for iPhone.

Keep in mind that, like other third-party web browsers, Microsoft Edge cannot be enabled as the default browser on iPhone.

Microsoft Edge for iOS is currently available in English only, but the company said it will add support for other languages as it expands the preview. iPad and Android support will be added in the future as well.

Access to the Microsoft Edge Preview for iOS is reserved for Windows Insiders. The beta can be installed through Apple’s TestFlight program.

Microsoft Edge for iOS should be available on the App Store later this year.

Tags: Microsoft, Microsoft Edge
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