Apps
Gboard getting new Dynamic Color for Light and Dark themes
Google plans to make some changes to Gboard for Android as new color themes are under testing. While Gboard hasn’t seen major theme updates lately, this new design aims to give users a fresh experience by enhancing dynamic color light and dark themes.
Gboard is currently using three different colors for non-letter keys, which often look mismatched with the letters on the keyboard. That’s why Gboard is working on redesigned dynamic themes for Android devices, which promises a more cohesive and streamlined user experience.
The updated dynamic color themes come in light and dark modes. In this redesign, keys like shift, ?123, comma/emoji, period, enter, and backspace along with the menu button now share the same color. The dark theme is also darker than before, which creates a more appealing look.
-
- Light
-
- Dark
-
- Non-Letter-One-color
Currently, a few devices running the latest Gboard beta version 14.7.10.x are showing this new Gboard theme. However, the “Default” themes that only highlight the enter key remain unchanged.
This testing indicates that Google is looking to improve the appearance of Gboard. It will be interesting to see how users react to this simpler design. For now, Gboard users should keep an eye on the updates as Google continues to work on this theme, and expected to be released in the coming days.
Samsung has released a new update for the Wallet/Pay app on the Galaxy Watch with version 5.1.82.20406. This update brings some enhancements to make the app easier and better to use.
The latest update prioritizes service enhancements. While the changelog doesn’t specify the details, users can expect the app to be faster and more reliable. This means you can access your wallet and make payments quickly, without any delays.
Additionally, this update fixes some issues that users faced in earlier versions. By addressing issues, Samsung aims to make the app more stable and user-friendly.
With this latest update, users can look forward to a smoother experience when managing payments and tracking expenses directly from their watch. The app allows users to handle their financial needs conveniently, right on their wrist.
Galaxy Watch users are encouraged to install the latest update to take advantage of the improvements in the Samsung Wallet/Pay app. For that, you just need to connect your watch to your smartphone and open Galaxy Store >> Menu option >> Updates.
If the update is available, you can install it to enjoy enhanced features. Also, you can download the update from the third-party app link mentioned here.
Google recently released new individual contacts Tile with Google Contacts app, which could soon be available for Galaxy Watch users. If you are using this app, check if a new Tile is available.
Your Galaxy Watch could soon get new Google Contacts Wear OS Tile
Google Play Store is reportedly gearing up to support a new category of Android devices, XR headset. A recent APK teardown of version 43.3.32-31 of the Play Store reveals the addition of resources indicating compatibility with XR devices.
According to the information via AssembleDebug (Android Authority), the latest APK version of the Play Store includes an icon resembling an XR headset and new text strings mentioning the XR headset.
XR includes different technologies from fully immersive virtual reality to augmented and mixed reality, which combine real and digital worlds. With companies like Google and Samsung interested in XR devices, it is a good idea for the Play Store to develop specific software support for these headsets.
Google Play Store has been a hub for various Android-powered devices as it offers apps for smartphones, tablets, and Wear OS smartwatches. The addition of XR headset support would expand its offerings and show a serious commitment to XR technology.
Some headsets already use Android but they often rely on different software solutions. As more companies look to enter the XR market, the Play Store’s move to include XR apps could help bring these new technologies together in one place.
Google Play Store’s planned support for XR headsets opens up new possibilities in the world of extended reality.
Samsung Prez attending Snapdragon Summit: Key talks on Galaxy S25 chip, XR
October 2024 Pixel Drop has introduced a new Google Contacts Tile for the Pixel Watch, which could soon be available for the Samsung Galaxy Watch. This new contacts Tile makes it easier to connect with your contacts right from your wrist.
The new tile of the Google Contacts app for Wear OS is the Individual Contact. It displays a contact’s name and profile picture in the center. Next to it, you’ll find buttons for calling and messaging.
With these two buttons, you can instantly connect calls or send messages to your contacts. The messaging option opens a familiar screen for sending texts, voice messages, and quick replies like “Yes,” “Thanks,” and “On my way.” If a contact has multiple phone numbers, you can easily choose which one to use.
In addition to this, you can add several Individual Contacts Tiles next to your watch face for quick access to your favorites. It is available with the Google Contacts app version 1.64 for Wear OS on the Play Store.
This new tile works alongside the existing Favorite Contacts Tile to make it even simpler to reach the people you care about most.
Notably, the new Google Contacts Tile may soon be available for the Samsung Galaxy Watch, expanding its accessibility to more users. Till then, stay up to date with the latest version of the Google Contacts for your Watch.
Samsung enhances Internet Browser functions for Wear OS devices