Key facts
- Google patched 124 Android security vulnerabilities in its latest update.
- A critical flaw in the Framework component and a zero-day exploit in Qualcomm processors were addressed.
- Google launched its Gemini Avatar feature for paid subscribers to create AI clones.
- Gemini in Google Drive can now use Gmail threads for context.
- Google is reportedly paying developers for app source code to train AI coding tools.
- Official wallpapers for the upcoming Pixel 11 series, including the Pro Fold, have leaked.
- The AV2 video codec, successor to AV1, promises up to 32% smaller file sizes.
- Developers of open-source apps like NewPipe are preparing for Google's sideloading restrictions.
- Google Photos is rolling out a custom sticker folder and developing copy-paste functionality for images.
- Google Home is offering personalized pet updates for Premium subscribers.
- A new Google Home Speaker may launch on June 25, 2026.
- Samsung integrated Lockdown mode into its One UI 9 beta power menu.
Google has issued a comprehensive set of updates across its Android and AI platforms. The company has patched 124 security vulnerabilities in Android, addressing a critical flaw in the Framework component and a zero-day exploit affecting Qualcomm processors, with updates rolling out to Pixel devices first. In AI advancements, Google is launching its Gemini Avatar feature for paid subscribers, enabling users to generate AI-driven clones of themselves using their face and voice, powered by the Omni model. These AI-generated videos will include a SynthID watermark, and users must be at least 18 years old. Google is also reportedly acquiring app source code from select Android developers through a confidential program to train its AI coding tools, while developers retain ownership.
Further enhancing AI integration, Gemini in Google Drive can now leverage specific Gmail threads to provide more context for user queries via the 'Ask Gemini' chat interface, available to Workspace and paying Google AI users. Google Drive is also making its AI-powered "Organize My Files" feature more accessible, suggesting file movements to improve organization with a simple button to confirm. Google Photos is receiving several new features, including a dedicated 'Stickers' folder for reusing custom stickers, a feature previously available on iOS, and developing the ability to directly copy and paste images into other applications. Google Home is introducing personalized pet updates for its indoor cameras for Google Home Premium subscribers on the Advanced plan, aiming to reduce misidentizations and provide more tailored information.
In other Google product news, the Workspace icon redesign on Android is complete with the Gmail update, featuring distinct visual identities with gradients and unique color schemes. The Gemini app within the Google app is adopting dynamic Material You theming, allowing its overlay UI colors to adapt to the user's wallpaper. Android 17 Beta 4.1 has been released for Pixel testers, potentially being the last beta before the stable launch. Leaks have also revealed official wallpapers for the upcoming Pixel 11 series, including the Pro Fold model, found in an early Android 17 build. A new Google Home Speaker is listed with a potential release date of June 25, 2026, by Best Buy Canada, though Google has stated it is coming in "Spring 2026".
Beyond Google's ecosystem, the Alliance for Open Media announced the definitive specifications for AV2, the successor to the AV1 video codec, promising up to 32% smaller file sizes. Honor's Magic V6 foldable phone has launched globally, featuring a slim design, a 6,660mAh silicon-carbon battery, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Samsung is integrating a 'Lockdown mode' into its One UI 9 beta power menu for enhanced security, disabling biometrics. Samsung is also releasing new Google Play system updates for its Galaxy devices, a significant increase in frequency. Developers of open-source apps like NewPipe are preparing for Google's upcoming sideloading restrictions, with NewPipe's developers opting not to comply with proposed verification rules. Plex has introduced new social features and increased its Lifetime Pass price to $749.99. The GameHub app has halved its size and added Steam and EA features. The Morphe app will soon add YouTube's Premium playback queue feature.