Google Messages teardown shows privacy settings for Profiles

Screenshot: Android Authority

Google's potential new feature for its Messages app involves discoverability through its Profiles feature. A new code teardown shows that possible privacy options are available. You get the ability to show or hide your profile photo and show your name or a nickname if you prefer. You can also decide to only show your name and picture to people you message, your contacts, or to no one at all.

Announced last year, Profiles allows you to make yourprofile/account discoverable on the platform. It also gives you the option to upload profile photos. It suggests Google is still trying to revive its dreams of a social media platform after Google Plus crashed and burned. But it hasn't widely rolled out the feature yet so it's unclear how these privacy options and the feature itself will be used on the messaging platform.

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Google reveals top Halloween trends

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With Halloween just around the corner Google has revealed what's already trending for the spooky season. Everything from costumes to decor to food and DIY. We honestly are not surprised that Raygun - the most criticized and dragged through the mud Australian Olympic breakdance competitor made the list. Deadpool is still making the list and Sabrina Carpenter? Taylor Swift?

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Google tests Gemini Live support on Android Auto

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Google looks like it's working on some Android Auto features. One of them brings Gemini Live to cars and another adds support for "local media." A look at Android Auto's code shows a new string directly referencing a codename associated with Gemini and the ability to "start conversation." But it doesn't look like it's live yet. There are also added assets like "star" used for Gemini spotted in this version of Android Auto.

9to5Google reports Google is working on supporting car radio control through Android Auto. There are clues that it will support adding and removing "Favorite" stations through an app on Android Auto. And there are hints it will support "local media" from your car, too. There are also new icons for local media playback and radio but these haven't gone live yet. We have no idea if and when Google will roll out these features. But we're keeping our eye on it.

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Google acknowledges Pixel 9 Pro XL wireless charging issues, working on fix

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Some Google Pixel 9 Pro XL users are experiencing intermittent and unreliable wireless charging performance across various accessories. Reports from Reddit and the Pixel community forum detail the issue, with users encountering inconsistent charging behavior even when using Google's own second-generation charging stand.

Some users have noted that their devices display "odd behavior" when wirelessly charging, such as starting to charge and then abruptly stopping. Others have reported excessive heat generation and sporadic charging with MagSafe Qi chargers.

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