Android’s QR Scanner testing auto zoom feature to scan codes from far
Google is developing an enhanced QR code scanner for Android phones, which is designed to simplify the process of reading QR codes from a distance. This new feature will be a part of Google’s code scanner API, which detects QR codes in camera frames, auto-zooms in, and read them.
The advanced QR code scanning feature is designed to integrate into multiple apps to eliminate the need for separate camera permissions. The API uses on-device machine learning to interpret QR codes, prioritizing user privacy by only sharing barcode objects with the app.
The auto-zoom functionality is accessible through the bundled ML Kit Barcode Scanning API library versions 17.2.0 and 18.3.0, along with the code scanner API version 16.1.0. This feature could support Android devices running version 13 or later. While its effectiveness on devices with weaker cameras remains uncertain.
GMS have the auto-zoom flag present from last month afaik. It was not enabled because it was in testing maybe. With release of this feature publicly, Google already enabled it on GMS beta for me. So expect it to roll out soon. Flag to force enable? Check https://t.co/MGeCDVz3iM pic.twitter.com/8qYjxLPRSp
— AssembleDebug (@AssembleDebug) August 4, 2023
Google App is updating its bottom navigation bar by bringing back a more modern design called Material 3. This change introduces a new pill-shaped indicator that shows which tab you’re using.
The revamped bottom navigation bar arrives with the latest beta version 15.40 of the Google App, thanks to 9to5Google. With the fresh design, Google aims to make it easier for users to navigate.
Instead of just highlighting the tab icon you’re on, the new design surrounds the icon with a pill shape to make it clearer and more appealing. Google app initially introduced this design in 2023 but later decided to revert to its previous look. Now, after some changes, the app has once again been back with the updated look.
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Aside from the testing new design, the company is also looking into a new verification feature for its Search function. This feature would give verified businesses a blue checkmark, similar to what you see in Gmail to help users easily identify trustworthy sources online.
Not everyone has access to Google App’s latest beta update yet, but users can force-stop the app through their device settings if they don’t see the new look right away. With the return of Material 3 design and new features on the way, users can look forward to a more enhanced experience in the Google App.
Google retracts report suggesting MediaTek chip in Galaxy S25
Google has started rolling out new Theft Protection features for Android devices including Samsung Galaxy devices running version 10 and above. Announced at the I/O 2024 event in May, these new features help to keep your personal information safe if your phone gets stolen.
The trio of Theft Protection features are now becoming available to Android users including those with devices from brands like Pixel and Samsung. You can start seeing these new features if you’re part of the Google Play services beta (version 24.40.33) program.
Google Theft Protection
The Theft Protection is a new privacy and device safety feature added under Google Services. It helps to keep your personal data safe if your device is stolen.
To access the new theft protection features, check the Theft protection in your device’s Settings app. You can also go to the Google Services page and find it under the All Services tab. This feature includes three main options, they are:
1.) Theft Detection Lock
This feature uses your device’s sensors, Wi-Fi, and smart device connections to detect if someone suddenly grabs your phone while you’re using it. If this happens, your phone will automatically lock its screen to unauthorized access to your personal data.
2.) Offline Device Lock
This feature starts its work if someone steals your phone and turns off the internet to stop tracking. For that, Google mentions two conditions – you need to be using your phone while it’s unlocked, and you can only lock the screen up to twice a day.
3.) Remote Lock
If your phone is stolen, you can go to android.com/lock to lock it remotely. You’ll need to confirm your identity with a phone number and answer a security question. This is faster than the Find My Device method.
With these features, Google aims to enhance your security and protect your personal information. The company will soon make these features available to all Android users through a stable update.
Google Maps will soon display real-time police activity in one US state, thanks to a partnership with the Illinois State Police (ISP). This collaboration aims to enhance driver safety and awareness while promoting compliance with the state’s “Move Over” law.
Currently, Google Maps provides user-generated reports for alerts about traffic incidents. Now, with this new collaboration, police officers will report their activities directly to provide more accurate and timely information to drivers. This will include updates on traffic stops, accidents, and other roadside incidents.
When an officer reports an incident or activity, the information will be sent to Google Cloud, which will then share it with Google Maps users. As drivers go towards a location where police are present, they will see specific icons on their map indicating these situations.
The ISP explained that this new feature will improve awareness of police activity, making it easier for drivers to navigate safely around emergency situations.
However, it’s important to note that while Google Maps will display police locations, it will not include reports of speed traps which users can still report on their own.
The Police Activity Alerts feature is expected to roll out soon, enhancing the Google Maps experience for Illinois drivers in the US. It could be available in more states.
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