Key facts
- Google patched 124 Android security vulnerabilities in a recent update.
- A critical flaw in the Android Framework component and a zero-day exploit in Qualcomm processors were addressed.
- Gemini in Google Drive can now use Gmail threads for enhanced context.
- Google is reportedly paying developers for access to app source code for AI training.
- Google is launching its Gemini Avatar feature for paid users to create AI clones.
- The AV2 video codec successor to AV1 has had its definitive specifications released.
- AV2 promises up to 32% smaller file sizes than the AV1 video codec.
- Google Photos is rolling out a 'Stickers' folder for custom sticker reuse on Android.
- Google Pay direct checkout has launched on websites.
- Android 17 Beta 4.1 has been released for Pixel testers.
- Honor's Magic V6 foldable phone features a 6,660mAh silicon-carbon battery.
- Samsung's One UI 9 beta integrates Lockdown mode into the power menu.
Google has issued a substantial security update for its Android operating system, addressing 124 vulnerabilities. This patch includes a critical flaw within the Framework component and a zero-day exploit affecting Qualcomm processors, with updates rolling out to Pixel devices and expected for third-party manufacturers. In the realm of AI, Google is enhancing its Gemini offerings. Gemini in Google Drive can now leverage Gmail threads to provide more contextual answers to user queries, a feature available to Workspace and paying Google AI users. Furthermore, Google is launching its Gemini Avatar feature for paid subscribers, enabling users to generate AI-driven clones of themselves using their own face and voice, powered by the Omni model and watermarked with SynthID. Google is also reportedly engaging in a confidential program to acquire app source code from select Android developers, aiming to bolster its AI coding tools by using this data for training while developers retain ownership.
Several Google applications are receiving feature enhancements. Google Photos on Android is rolling out a dedicated 'Stickers' folder, allowing users to easily access and reuse custom stickers, a feature previously available on iOS. The app is also developing functionality to directly copy and paste images into other applications, simplifying image transfer. Google Drive is making its AI-powered "Organize My Files" feature more accessible, suggesting file movements to improve organization. Google Pay has launched a direct checkout feature, integrating Google Wallet payment options directly onto retailer websites to streamline online purchases. The Google Home app is introducing personalized pet updates for Premium subscribers, utilizing indoor cameras to recognize specific pets and reduce misidentifications. Google is also preparing for a potential Google Home Speaker release, with a Canadian retailer listing a June 25, 2026 release date, though Google has stated it is coming in "Spring 2026".
Beyond core Google services, updates are emerging across the Android ecosystem. The Alliance for Open Media has finalized specifications for AV2, the successor to the AV1 video codec, which promises up to 32% smaller file sizes compared to AV1. Developers of open-source Android apps, such as NewPipe, are preparing for Google's forthcoming sideloading restrictions, with some developers indicating they will not comply with proposed verification rules and are advising users on how to navigate potential installation hurdles. Honor has globally launched its Magic V6 foldable smartphone, featuring a slim design and a 6,660mAh silicon-carbon battery, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Samsung is integrating a 'Lockdown mode' into its One UI 9 beta power menu, disabling biometrics and requiring PIN or password entry for enhanced security. Samsung is also actively releasing Google Play system updates for its Galaxy devices, with a notable increase in frequency in 2026. Android 17 Beta 4.1 has been released, potentially being the last beta before the stable launch. Additionally, an Android Canary update introduces 'Screen Reactions' for recording screen activity with a selfie overlay, and the Google Gemini app is adopting dynamic Material You theming that adapts to the user's wallpaper. The GameHub app has seen its size halved and gained new features, and the Morphe app will soon support YouTube Premium's playback queue functionality.