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Google Password Manager May Be Set to Introduce a Nuclear Option for Its Android App

Google Password Manager is reportedly preparing to add a 'delete all' option, allowing users to remove all saved credentials in one action, rather than deleting them individually. This feature, which has been identified in a recent teardown, aims to enhance user experience by streamlining the process of managing passwords. Currently, deleting all passwords requires users to clear their entire browsing data, making the upcoming 'delete all' option a significant improvement for those needing to transition between password managers.

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1Password Enhances Location-Based Password Management Δ1.76

1Password has introduced a feature allowing users to add location data to individual login items, enabling the password manager to automatically display relevant passwords based on their current location. This update addresses the challenge of managing numerous unique passwords for various accounts, making it easier to access the correct login credentials when needed. Users can now leverage their mobile phone's location data to automatically show logins tied to a specific geographic area.

1Password Adds Nearby Location Feature for Annoying Apps Δ1.72

1Password offers a new "Nearby" location-based login feature to help users log in to apps that constantly log them out. This feature allows users to link nearby locations to their accounts, making it easier to access credentials without having to remember passwords or login pages. The feature is entirely optional and only available for users whose apps are up to date.

How I Got 15GB of Gmail Storage for Free - and Without Losing Any Files Δ1.70

A simple and effective method allows Gmail users to archive their emails and media while freeing up storage without losing important data. By utilizing Google Takeout for backups and creating a new Gmail account for archiving, users can declutter their inbox and optimize storage capacity without the hassle of manual deletions. This strategy not only preserves essential emails but also ensures a fresh start with the original account.

Google Unveils Shielded Email Feature to Protect User Inboxes. Δ1.70

Google is working on a new feature called Shielded Email, which aims to protect users from unwanted emails by creating an alias address when signing up for new accounts. This feature uses Google's autofill features to automatically forward emails sent to the alias address to the user's main email address, allowing them to easily block or unsubscribe from unwanted emails. By using a separate alias address, Shielded Email provides a buffer between users and service providers, making it harder for bad actors to track their online activity.

Google Play Update Makes It Easier to Find Android Apps with Widgets Δ1.70

Google has announced several changes to its widgets system on Android that will make it easier for app developers to reach their users. The company is preparing to roll out new features to Android phones, tablets, and foldable devices, as well as on Google Play, aimed at improving widget discovery. These updates include a new visual badge that displays on an app's detail page and a dedicated search filter to help users find apps with widgets.

How Major Bank Rolls Out Multi-Layered Security for Millions of Customers. Δ1.70

Commonwealth Bank is introducing a new layer of security to its internet banking, requiring millions of customers to approve each login attempt via the app. The bank claims this will make it harder for fraudsters to access customer accounts. However, critics argue that the added complexity may push some users away from mobile banking altogether.

How to Turn Off Google Gemini on Your Pixel Phone, and Return to Google Assistant Δ1.69

Users looking to revert from Google's Gemini AI chatbot back to the traditional Google Assistant can do so easily through the app's settings. While Gemini offers a more conversational experience, some users prefer the straightforward utility of Google Assistant for quick queries and tasks. This transition highlights the ongoing evolution in AI assistant technologies and the varying preferences among users for simplicity versus advanced interaction.

There's One New Pixel 'Upgrade' You Might Not Love - Here's How to Fix It Δ1.69

Google's recent software update has introduced several camera features across its Pixel devices, including the ability to take a picture by holding your palm up, improved performance for older phones, and new functionality for Pixel Fold users. The update also brings haptic feedback changes that some users are finding annoyingly intense. Despite these updates, Google is still working on several key features.

Google Asks US Government to Drop Breakup Plan over National Security Fears Δ1.69

Google has urged the US government to reconsider its plans to break up the company, citing concerns over national security. The US Department of Justice is exploring antitrust cases against Google, focusing on its search market dominance and online ads business. Google's representatives have met with the White House to discuss the implications of a potential breakup, arguing that it would harm the American economy.

Skype's Encryption Legacy Lives On as It Shuts Down Δ1.68

In 2003, Skype pioneered end-to-end encryption in the internet phone-calling app space, offering users unprecedented privacy. The company's early emphasis on secure communication helped to fuel global adoption and sparked anger among law enforcement agencies worldwide. Today, the legacy of Skype's encryption can be seen in the widespread use of similar technologies by popular messaging apps like iMessage, Signal, and WhatsApp.

Google Upgrades Gemini AI Capabilities for All Users Δ1.68

Google is upgrading its AI capabilities for all users through its Gemini chatbot, including the ability to remember user preferences and interests. The feature, previously exclusive to paid users, allows Gemini to see the world around it, making it more conversational and context-aware. This upgrade aims to make Gemini a more engaging and personalized experience for all users.

Google Unveils Voluntary Exit Plan Amid Cost-Cutting Push Δ1.68

Google (GOOG) has introduced a voluntary departure program for full-time People Operations employees in the United States, offering severance compensation of 14 weeks' salary plus an additional week for each full year of employment, as part of its resource realignment efforts. The company aims to eliminate duplicate management layers and redirect company budgets toward AI infrastructure development until 2025. Google's restructuring plans will likely lead to further cost-cutting measures in the coming months.

US Government Cuts Key Software Division without Warning. Δ1.68

The US government's General Services Administration department has dissolved its 18F unit, a software and procurement group responsible for building crucial login services like Login.gov. This move follows an ongoing campaign by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency to slash government spending. The effects of the cuts will be felt across various departments, as 18F collaborated with many agencies on IT projects.

Google Pixel 10: Videos Reveal Two New and Useful Android 16 Features in Advance Δ1.68

Two new features are likely to be introduced on the Google Pixel 10 with the release of Android 16, including widgets on the lock screen and support for external displays. Android expert Mishaal Rahman has managed to manually activate these features in advance, revealing how they will enhance user experience. The introduction of these features is part of Google's strategy to position Android as a replacement for classic desktop operating systems.

The DOJ Still Wants Google to Sell Off Chrome Δ1.68

Google's dominance in the browser market has raised concerns among regulators, who argue that the company's search placement payments create a barrier to entry for competitors. The Department of Justice is seeking the divestiture of Chrome to promote competition and innovation in the tech industry. The proposed remedy aims to address antitrust concerns by reducing Google's control over online searching.

Google Play Is Going to Start Highlighting Apps with Widgets Δ1.68

Google is making some changes to Google Play on Android devices to better highlight apps that include widgets, according to a blog post. The changes include a new search filter for widgets, widget badges on app detail pages, and a curated editorial page dedicated to widgets. Historically, one of the challenges with investing in widget development has been discoverability and user understanding, but Google aims to justify this effort by user adoption.

Gemini Just Got an Enhanced Memory Upgrade for All Users and You’ll Love What You Can Do with It Now. Δ1.68

Google has introduced a memory feature to the free version of its AI chatbot, Gemini, allowing users to store personal information for more engaging and personalized interactions. This update, which follows the feature's earlier release for Gemini Advanced subscribers, enhances the chatbot's usability, making conversations feel more natural and fluid. While Google is behind competitors like ChatGPT in rolling out this feature, the swift availability for all users could significantly elevate the user experience.

Google Urges Trump DOJ to Reverse Course on Breaking Up Company Δ1.67

Google is urging officials at President Donald Trump's Justice Department to back away from a push to break up the search engine company, citing national security concerns. The company has previously raised these concerns in public, but is re-upping them in discussions with the department under Trump because the case is in its second stage. Google argues that the proposed remedies would harm the American economy and national security.

UBlock Origin Users Face Uncertainty After Chrome Removal Δ1.67

uBlock Origin, a popular ad-blocking extension, has been automatically disabled on some devices due to Google's shift to Manifest V3, the new extensions platform. This move comes as users are left wondering about their alternatives in the face of an impending deadline for removing all Manifest V2 extensions. Users who rely on uBlock Origin may need to consider switching to another browser or ad blocker.

Google’s AI-Powered Pixel Sense App Could Gobble up All Your Pixel 10 Data Δ1.67

Google's latest move to integrate its various apps through an AI-powered platform may finally deliver on the promise of a seamless user experience. The new app, dubbed Pixel Sense, will reportedly collect data from nearly every Google app and use it to provide contextual suggestions as users navigate their phone. By leveraging this vast repository of user data, Pixel Sense aims to predict user needs without being prompted, potentially revolutionizing the way people interact with their smartphones.

Google Lays Off Hundreds of Cloud Workers Through Voluntary Redundancies Δ1.67

Google is reportedly offering voluntary redundancies to its cloud workers as part of a broader effort to cut costs and increase efficiency. The company has been struggling to maintain profitability, and CEO Sundar Pichai has announced plans to reduce expenses across various departments. While the layoffs are likely to be significant, Google has also stated that it expects some headcount growth in certain areas, such as AI and Cloud.

Firefox Deletes Promise to Never Sell Personal Data Δ1.67

Firefox maker Mozilla has deleted its long-standing promise never to sell users' personal data, citing changes in how the term "sale" is defined in various legal jurisdictions. The decision comes after users expressed outrage over the revised terms of use, which some interpret as allowing for broader data sharing than initially promised. Mozilla insists that its approach to privacy remains unchanged.

Fired US Government Workers with Top Security Clearances Were Not Given Exit Briefings Δ1.67

Recent mass layoffs at Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency have resulted in some U.S. government workers with top security clearances not receiving standard exit briefings, raising significant security concerns. Typically, these briefings remind employees of their non-disclosure agreements and provide guidance on handling potential foreign approaches, which is critical given their access to sensitive information. The absence of these debriefings creates vulnerabilities, particularly as foreign adversaries actively seek to exploit gaps in security protocols.

Worried About DeepSeek? Well, Google Gemini Collects Even More of Your Personal Data Δ1.67

Google Gemini stands out as the most data-hungry service, collecting 22 of these data types, including highly sensitive data like precise location, user content, the device's contacts list, browsing history, and more. The analysis also found that 30% of the analyzed chatbots share user data with third parties, potentially leading to targeted advertising or spam calls. DeepSeek, while not the worst offender, collects only 11 unique types of data, including user input like chat history, raising concerns under GDPR rules.

Bad Vibes? Google May Have Screwed Up Haptics in the New Pixel Drop Update Δ1.67

Google's latest Pixel Drop update has sparked complaints regarding changes to haptic feedback, with users reporting a noticeable difference in notification responses. The introduction of a Notification Cooldown feature, which is enabled by default, may be contributing to user dissatisfaction, though it's unclear if this is an intended change or a bug. Testing on various Pixel models suggests inconsistencies in haptic feedback, leading the Pixel team to actively investigate these reports.