Google follows Apple & Samsung in switching to water pistol for the gun emoji

With iOS 10 in 2016, Apple switched to a water pistol for its gun emoji. The new design was not widely adopted — if not critiqued — until this year where there’s been a rash of changes on other platforms. Google is now the latest to match Apple’s design direction on the gun emoji with the upcoming version of Android.

Nintendo Switch

According to Emojipedia, Google today updated its NotoColorEmoji library with a new emoji design. The current realistic revolver with a dark gray barrel and brown handle has been replaced with an equally realistic water pistol that is brightly colored in yellow and orange with hints of green and blue.

In line with Google’s other modern emoji, there is a fine attention to detail. Interestingly, the preceding version of the emoji was just revamped in 2017, with the prior version in use for three years. Before that Google used a musket, while in 2012 Google used the generic outline of a modern handgun.

As Emojipedia notes, Google — following Apple’s decision in 2016 — was cautious about changing, citing a desire to maintain “cross-platform communication.” However the landscape in 2018 has changed with Twitter and later Samsung on the Galaxy S9 switching to a water pistol.
Given the momentum, it makes sense Google to follow along to ensure that communication across platforms is consistent. The new design should be adopted system-wide with the launch of Android P later this fall.

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I’m not rushing back to the Pixel 2 XL after using the Galaxy S9+

It’s been a while since I wrapped up my testing of the S9+, and now that my review has been up, technically I don’t really need to be actively using this device anymore. With most devices I review, I’ll end up switching back to my Pixel within a week after finishing, but with the Galaxy S9+ I’m not feeling that urge, and there are a few reasons why…

The Galaxy S9 is an incredible piece of hardware

When Samsung launched the Galaxy S6 a few years ago, it was clear the company had a vision in mind for its future hardware, and it was a good one. Over time, that design evolved and, especially thanks to the S8 family, delivered what we ended up seeing in the S9 family.

In short, it’s incredibly nice hardware that’s refined to the point of near perfection. The metal and glass design is beautiful to look at and some of the colors are frankly just amazing. Further, the metal frame itself is more grippy, fixing one of my biggest issues with the S8, and also improves things like the fingerprint sensor placement and the curvature of the glass as well. It may not be particularly new, but the S9’s hardware is nothing short of fantastic.

Features like Intelligent Scan are becoming invaluable to me

But it’s not just the build of the phone that makes me want to use it so much. Samsung is well-known for including everything and the kitchen sink in terms of features, but sometimes that’s not all that bad. With the S9 you get a solid fingerprint sensor, but on top of that you also get Intelligent Scan.

In my review of the S9+ I said this feature wasn’t as good as Apple’s Face ID, but it’s still pretty darn good. Samsung has refined this tech significantly since the S8, and it works really well in day-to-day use. I’d still say I use the fingerprint sensor more, but using facial recognition is becoming more and more valuable.

What’s best about this setup, though, is having both on the same phone. Facial recognition isn’t always a possibility, and the fingerprint sensor isn’t always the most convenient option either. With the S9, you get the best of both worlds.

It’s really nice having a headphone jack again…

And then there’s an obvious one, having a headphone jack. Samsung is very much sticking to its guns on keeping the headphone jack around, and that’s fantastic. Wired audio is absolutely on its way out, but millions use it daily. For now, that alone makes the S9+ the choice for a flagship in 2018.

I love this phone, even though I dislike the software

Samsung is nearing perfection with the Galaxy S9, and that’s why it’s still in my pocket. Using hardware this refined reminds me how long Google has to go before it catches up.

However, the reason I’ll go back to the Pixel (eventually) is because of the software. Samsung has made great strides in improving things over the years, but “Samsung Experience 9.0” is still full of changes, issues, and frankly annoying omissions. For example, long-pressing the home button for Google Assistant often just doesn’t work for me, and I’ve noticed a bit of trouble with touch rejection on the bezels since wrapping up the review. None of these are deal breakers by any means, but they’re just a sample of the little things that can take down what is otherwise a solid experience.

I think Andrew from Android Central expressed this best in a recent piece, saying that he loves the S9 despite the software, and that really is a problem for Samsung. The software on the S9 might allow anyone to customize it exactly how they need it, but they shouldn’t have to do that. On the Pixel, I don’t have to change a single setting, because everything works brilliantly out of the box. Then there’s the issue of updates, which, yeah… let’s not talk about that.

Is the S9+ truly a better phone?

At the end of the day, though, the real question is whether or not the Galaxy S9+ really is a better phone overall. Honestly, for the average consumer, it probably is. Samsung has crafted an experience that feels complete and caters to everyone. Google is working its way there, and for me and I’m sure many others, it’s a better option, but the Galaxy S9 is proof that Samsung has all the best cards in this game…

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Google working on its own blockchain technology

Google is working on blockchain-related technology to support its cloud business and head off competition from emerging startups that use the heavily-hyped technology to operate online in new ways, according to people familiar with the situation.

Companies use blockchain and other so-called digital ledgers to securely record transactions and process other data over the internet — a service Google could use, for example, to reassure customers that their information is protected when stored on the giant network of computer servers that power its cloud services.

The Alphabet Inc unit is developing its own distributed digital ledger that third parties can use to post and verify transactions, one of the people said. Although the timing of any product release is unclear, the company plans to offer this to differentiate its cloud service from rivals.

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What is Google’s Andromeda project and why should we care?

Rumours are surfacing regarding an upcoming Google OS called Andromeda. These same rumours suggest that the OS will reside alongside ChromeOS and Android and that it will be designed for laptop-like devices.

What we really want to know is why this OS even exists.

First, let’s get the facts out of the way
Android Police claims that their sources have confirmed the existence of the OS as well as work on a device that it’s expected to debut on. The device has been dubbed the Pixel 3 laptop and the project is code-named Bison.

In terms of specs, the device is expected to sport an Intel m5 or i5 CPU, 8GB or 16 GB RAM and offer 32GB or 128 GB storage. The screen will be about 12.3-inches and you’ll get USB-C, a fingerprint reader, touchpad with haptic feedback and more. Of course, all of these specifications are subject to change.

Sources have apparently told Android Police that the project is an attempt to build an OS that melds ChromeOS features into Android. Andromeda and the Pixel 3 are expected to debut in Q3 2017.

But what does this mean?
Android started out as an OS for touch-screen mobile phones, later evolving to include tablets when the need arose. Originally, the OS was all about apps, but later, the focus shifted to the browser and now, it’s at messaging and AI.


Android was never a good fit for true computing. A laptop was still needed for real work (not just emails) and thus, ChromeOS was born. It came at a time when desktop apps were shifting to the cloud, when collaboration was the name of the game (This was in 2011, Apple. Take note.)
ChromeOS worked because it brought with it cheap devices that gave you access to the full desktop web and associated web apps. It was like a stand-alone Chrome browser. Devices were hassle-free to maintain and run and since everything was stored in the cloud, you never lost any data.



Of course, you needed an active internet connection to make full use of it.

As time passed and ChromeOS started getting more popular, the lack of apps started to really hurt. Doing things on the web is great, but offline is sometimes better.

It was then that Google announced plans to merge Android apps into ChromeOS.

It’s a move that makes sense. Android is a mobile OS where apps and mobile browsing are king. ChromeOS is a “desktop” OS where the “desktop” web is king. Throw apps into the mix and ChromeOS suddenly becomes more flexible.

So what’s the catch?
The catch here is that ChromeOS is still only about the browser. Android apps do work, but they run just about as well as they would on a tablet. Think of them like UWP apps on the Windows Store. They’re not as great as true desktop apps, they’re a stop-gap.


Andromeda is supposed to change that. Rather than integrate Android into ChromeOS, Andromeda is apparently trying to integrate ChromeOS into Android. Andromeda might, in fact, be a portmanteau of Android and Chrome, but don’t take our word for it.

As far as facts are concerned that’s all we know.

So why does it exist?
Thinking about it, I think I understand why Google is working on Andromeda. We spend most of our time on our phone and in apps and it’s only when we need to “work” and our phone isn’t up to the task that we switch to a PC.

Say you’re browsing the web on a tablet, you’d rather just use it in tablet mode. But what if you want to work on a document? You can work on the docs app, but it’s also more convenient to work on Google Docs in a desktop web browser. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could do that on the same device?
This, I believe, is the idea behind Andromeda.

I could be completely in the wrong of course.

The difference between ChromeOS running Android and Android running ChromeOS is subtle, but it’s significant.

Is this the future?

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Google opens access to Project Fi mobile phone service

Google on Monday opened its Project Fi mobile phone service to anyone in the United States using its latest model Nexus smartphones. The public launch of Project Fi marked the end of a 10-month, invitation-only test phase and comes as the Internet giant’s first foray in being a mobile phone service provider.

“We’re excited to be exiting our invitation-only mode and opening up Project Fi so that people across the US can now sign up for service without having to wait in-line for an invite,” product manager Simon Arscott said in a blog post.

“With Project Fi, we deliver fast wireless service with the flexibility to use it where you want even internationally and a monthly bill that’s simple and easy to understand.”

Project Fi is only available for Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, and Nexus 6 smartphones from Google and work with a special SIM card that supports connections to multiple cellular networks.

Project Fi enabled smartphones can link to one of two 4G LTE networks or to Wi-Fi, automatically selecting optimal connections and switching from one to another without interrupting service, according to Google.

“As you go about your day, Project Fi automatically connects you to more than a million free, open Wi-Fi hotspots we’ve verified as fast and reliable,” Google said in a blog post.

“Once you’re connected, we help secure your data through encryption.” Basic Project Fi plans cost $20 monthly for unlimited domestic voice calls as well as unlimited domestic and international text messaging. Fi boasts cellular coverage in more than 120 countries.

Data service costs $10 per gigabyte, with people only charged for what they use. Google promoted Fi service with discounted prices on Nexus 5X smartphones. The move by Google is seen as a way to lure consumers away from Apple and promote Google-branded Android phones with an a low-cost mobile plan.

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Say Goodbye To GPS! India's All Set To Switch To The Desi Navigation System, IRNSS

It's time we move away from the American Global Positioning System (GPS) and make way for our own desi navigation system — the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System or IRNSS on our mobile phones.




Beginning Thursday, Isro will hold a major meeting in Bangalore involving location and navigation device manufacturers, mobile phone manufacturers and global information system (GIS) technology developers presenting to them the advantages of using the IRNSS technology over the current GPS technology.

During the two-day meet, Isro will demonstrate how the seven IRNSS constellation satellites once operational by July next year, will be significantly more accurate than the American GPS system. The meeting will also be attended by senior scientists from Space Application Centre (SAC) Ahmedabad.



Unlike American GPS, Isro is recommending a small additional hardware in handheld devices that can receive S-Band signals from IRNSS satellites and inclusion of a code in the phone software to receive L-Band signals.

"Both these L and S band signals received from seven satellite constellation of the IRNSS are being calculated by a special embedded software which reduces the errors caused by atmospheric disturbances significantly. This in turn gives a superior quality location accuracy than the American GPS system," says a senior Isro official.

All the seven satellites of Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) are expected to be in orbit by March 2016, Indian Space Research Organisation said today.

ISRO also aims to make signals available not only to India and surrounding countries but also to the entire globe, ISRO Chairman Kiran Kumar said.

GSAT-15 satellite with GAGAN payload is slated for launch by November 10

IRNSS is ISRO's initiative to build an independent satellite navigation system to provide precise position, velocity and time to the users of Indian region. The system is designed with a constellation of seven spacecraft and a vast network of ground systems.

With the addition of fourth spacecraft IRNSS-1D in March 2015, the minimum satellite requirement is met and independent positioning is now possible for the first time using an Indian satellite-based navigation system.

He said, "as we make it global, global users will be able to take advantage. Otherwise, now only regional users can take advantage of IRNSS." 

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Hindi content grows by 94% year on year compared to 19% growth in English content: Google

Catering to the internet users in tier II and III towns, technology giant Google is now focusing to expand usage of its products like ‘Maps’ and ‘Search’ in vernacular languages, especially Hindi.
“While there are an estimated 500 million speakers of Hindi, there are just 100,000 Wikipedia articles. India’s Internet population is growing really fast, from 100 million users in 2011, we are now the world’s second largest Internet base with 300 million users and we are well-poised to touch 500 million base by 2017,” Google India Marketing Director Sandeep Menon told PTI.

He added that one in five (21 per cent) prefers to access Internet in Hindi in the country.
Showcasing its products at a ‘Google House’ event here, the US-based firm said it is witnessing strong growth in consumption of Hindi language.

“Hindi content consumption on the web is starting to take off. It has grown 94 per cent year-on-year compared to 19 per cent growth for English content,” Menon said.

Highlighting one such feature, Menon said Google has recently launched a new “instant translation” feature in Google Translate that allows users to translate printed text, like street signs or ingredient lists by opening the app on smartphones and pointing the camera at the text.

“For India, the growth in Internet userbase has certainly come from mobile phones. From 20 million in 2011, we have 152 million users accessing Internet over their smartphones. By 2017, it is expected that 490 million (of the 500 million Internet users in the country) will access Internet from their smartphones,” he said.

And that is also one of the key reasons that Google is focused on bringing in products that understand the requirements of users rather than just cater to the demand and can work well in low network areas, Menon added.

“Some of these include voice search being optimised for English in the Indian accent, and in Hindi to find answers faster, easier and more local. Apart from language, we are also offering offline features like the ability to save Maps or YouTube Offline to help users access services in patchy networks or without incurring huge data charges,” he said.

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Google Hangouts gets its own website

Google Hangouts finally gets an all-new dedicated website.

Google has launched a new website – hangouts.google.com – showing a pane with all your frequently accessed contacts. It shows three big buttons on the right side – Video Call, Phone Call and Message. Users can even click on a contact and pin it to favourites.

“We are launching another way to use Hangouts today. From our new site you’ll be able to take advantage of the best of Hangouts in the browser, along with an inspiring image to get you through the day. Check it out and let us know what you think,” Google engineer Jordanna Chord writes in a Google+ post.

On starting a video call, users can share the screen, YouTube playlists and also draw right there on the video, just like before.

This also means, users won’t require to log into Gmail or Google+ to access Hangouts.

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Google’s Cardboard DIY kit turns your smartphone into a virtual reality headset

Facebook spent billions to acquire Oculus VR and the technology behind Oculus Rift its virtual reality headset, but Google is taking a decidedly low-tech approach to achieving the same. This year’s I/O attendees got to pick either of the newly-launched Android Wear watches and were also given a mysterious kit simply called Cardboard.

As we expected, it’s anything but a simple piece of cardboard, like TechCrunch points out. It’s a DIY virtual reality headset kit that comes with all the MacGyveresque tools you will need to convert your regular smartphone into a virtual-reality display.


 
Using the instructions provided, you have to build the Cardboard into that familiar HUD shape, and also make sure all the other ‘high-tech’ tools such as the rubber band and a velcro flap are in the right place. There are two plastic lenses built into the face of the Cardboard, which add all the magic and wrap your phone’s display in the visible area.There’s also a piece of magnet that has to be attached to a small notch on the Cardboard’s exterior, and you’re set.

Since you are so up close to the image, it’s something like looking at an ultra wide, naturally curved display. The device, if we can call it that, works only when the Cardboard app on the phone is fired up. Navigation within the app is simply about moving your head to ‘look around corners’ etc. The magnet attached on the outside acts as a big selector and lets you pick elements within the UI.

At the moment, the selection of viewable content is limited to 7 categories. Users can watch a selection of YouTube videos using Cardboard, but many of the other applications are tied to Google Maps and Street View.

Tour Guide has you explore the Palace of Versailles in France, while ‘Street Vue’ lets you wander around in a VR version of street view in Paris. Earth Flyover lets you aerially explore a city in Google Earth, while there’s a Photo Sphere Viewer as well. Windy Day lets users explore a cartoony environment, from the point of view of a flying hat. ‘Exhibit’ allows you to examine more closely popular objets d’art.

Of course, this is just the work of Googlers during their ’20 percent’ time, so don’t expect a retail variant. However, if you want one, Dodocase is selling the kit online at the moment, with or without the NFC tag. It comes to around $20 without shipping, so it’s not that expensive.

Cardboard gif credit: TechCrunch

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Android everywhere: Google’s dominant OS powers Android TV, Android Auto

It’s an Android world, at least that’s what Google is hoping it will be, as it showcased a redefined Android TV at its annual developer conference. Google also showcased Android Auto for cars as well during the keynote address. We take a quick look at what these are offering:

Android TV

Android TV isn’t something new. Google has been trying to get into users’ living rooms for some time now. Google TV was introduced way back in 2010 with the first Google TVs being made by Sony and Logitech. In the second generation of devices, LG, Asus and others had also partnered on Google TV. But Google TV wasn’t a success. Nor was the Nexus Q which was a media-streaming entertainment device introduced in June 2012. Q wasn’t much of success and it was replaced by Chromecast, which was showcased at last year’s Google I/O conference.

Android TV now lets users broadcast content to your TV, as well as search a grid of popular content, apps, and games. Voice search and Google Knowledge Graph are also enabled for Android TV, which means you can just talk to your TV and do a voice search for instant results.

Google has also made sure that there’s one Android software-development kit for all the company’s Android form factors and thus will allow apps to work across supported devices and platforms. According to the announcements at I/O, Sony and Sharp are producing Android-powered TVs and set-top boxes which will launch by 2015. Google also expects Asus, Razer to launch the first set of Android TVs by fall. The 2015 line of HD and 4K televisions from Sony, Sharp and TP Vision have Android TV.

Google’s Android L Developer Preview SDK includes the new Leanback support library that allows developers to design smoother, simpler, living room apps. Developers can “now build immersive native apps and console-style games on Android TV devices,” according to Google.

Dave Burke, director of engineering for Android, announces the Android TV during his keynote address at the Google I/O developers conference. Reuters

Where Chromecast is concerned, Google boasted that it is one of the top five selling electronic devices on Amazon and that is doing very well in countries like Australia, UK, USA. However Google didn’t give any numbers on how many Chromecast devices were sold across the world.

Chromecast now allows users to stream content from anywhere and you don’t even have to be on the same Wi-Fi network as the device. Do note that this an optional feature and users can make sure that not everyone can go around streaming content on their Tv sets via Chromecast.

There’s a feature called Backdrop which can run feeds of photos, news, weather, or art while you’re not using the Chromecast. Sort of like a screen saver for your TV. Except of course, this might mean of lot of electricity consumption and we’re not sure if this a good idea. There’s also a Cast Screen button which lets users directly mirror anything on their Android device to the TV. Of course you will need a supported phone or tablet from Samsung, HTC, LG, or the Nexus.

Android Auto: According to Google the idea behind Android Auto is to ensure that users aren’t switching between the phone and the steering wheel while driving. Like Android TV, users can just mirror their smartphone’s screen on the car’s screen.

Android Auto supports Google Maps which you can run via voice commands. You can also reply to messages you get on your phone with Voice. Users can play and find music on their cars without having to fiddle with the actual buttons. Google is also bringing some apps to Android Auto such as Songza, Pandora, and other radio and music streaming apps.

Google has also introduced Android Auto APIs, where app developers can ensure that an app designed for smartphones runs on Android Auto as well. The SDK for Android Auto will be introduced later. Google’s list of partners include Bentley, Ferrari, Audi, Ford, Nissan, Mazda, Suzuki, Skoda, Honda to name a few and they have a total of 40 partners. Whether Android Auto will also be a part of low-end models from these companies remains to be seen, but according to Google the first set of cars should be expected by end of this year.

Google Android Auto is the company’s answer to Apple’s CarPlay which also supports Siri-based contextual voice commands for making calls, sending and receiving messages.

Overall with Android Tv and Android Auto, Google is strengthening the Android platform and hoping to extend it in your living room and cars.

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All you need to know about your next mobile OS, Android L

Google held its annual developer conference, Google I/O yesterday, and it was pretty much a given that it would showcase a new version of Android, smartwearables, Android TV and Android for cars. Google did show us all of these things but the biggest change was to Android itself.

Android fans and developers got to see a new version of Android codenamed ‘L’. This version will be out in fall of 2014 and will come pre-loaded on new Android devices. Of course, for older devices it will be up to OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to decide when they will send out the update.

“This is one of the most comprehensive releases we have done: it has over 5,000 new APIs, and we are thinking not just for mobile, but for form factors beyond mobile,” said Google’s Android and Chrome boss Sundar Pichai, during the keynote presentation at I/O.

And while there’s a good chance that Android L could be called Android Liquorice or Android Lollipop by the time it comes out, it has a lot of stuff that’s new. We take a quick look.

First up, Android L will see the software get a massive design change. Google has gone for something called Material Design which lets developers add shadows and seams to give visuals on a phone’s screen the appearance of depth. Essentially Material Design will allow developers to add a more animated element to their apps. Elements can dynamically shrink and expand, there’s more white space between elements, and there’s an overall 3D look.

According to Google’s own blog, Material Design will allow developers to, “...apply to your apps for a new style: it lets you easily infuse your own color palette into your app, and offers new system widgets, screen transitions and animated touch feedback. We’ve also added the ability to specify a view’s elevation, allowing you to raise UI elements and cast dynamic, real-time shadows in your apps.”

Sundar Pichai talking about Android at the conference. Reuters

As this piece on CNET explains “Material Design opens up a 3D interface even on 2D screens by letting programmers specify not just what color a pixel should be, but how high it should be in a virtual stack.” Google will also bring this Material Design to Chrome OS.

What the video below.

Secondly Google is promising improved processor performance on smartphones. Google has introduced Android Runtime (ART) as the system default. According to the company’s official blog, “ART offers ahead-of-time (AOT) compilation, more efficient garbage collection, and improved development and debugging features.”

There’s also support for 64-bit support architecture. Google also says that apps written in the Java language can run immediately on 64-bit architectures with no modifications required. The company is als promising better graphics on L via OpenGL ES 3.1 and thus ensure that app developers can get capabilities such as compute shaders, stencil textures, and texture gather for their games.

Better Battery performance is also going to be a key part of Google L. Project Volta as Google calls it comes with new tools and APIs to help apps run efficiently and conserve power. There’s also a Battery Historian, a new tool that will let developers see how their app ends up using power over time. There’s also a job scheduler API to ensure that developers can set some tasks to run when the device is charging or idle to reduce battery usage.

Matias Durante, Vice President, Design at Google, speaks on stage during the Google I/O Developers Conference at Moscone Center. AFP

Notifications on Android L are also going to see drastic changes as well. Google will ensure that users can access notifications content, updates without unlocking the screen. There’s also Heads-up notification, which will appear in a small floating window if the user is working on another app. Users can choose to reply to that notification while they are in the app or also ignore it. Developers can add their own colour and branding to the notifications.

The ‘Recents’ tab has also gone a drastic change in Android L. It will now show all recently used apps as “a stacked card overview” and will include recently accessed websites from Chrome. Other apps can also add items to the list. The advantage of this is that if you open a website on your mobile browser and then switch to something else, you can just go back to ‘Recents’ to view that website instead of opening Chrome all over again. It looks much prettier than the current multi-tasking system, and resembles more like the cards in Google View.

Google is also bringing in Universal Data Control L where Android users will be able to control how data on their handset is shared. Users will also be able to divide their devices between work and personal modes. Essentially this is Google’s way to reach out to the Enterprise user and convince them that an Android phone is just as good for work as it is for play. Interestingly Google’s Sundar Pichai also mentioned Samsung’s Knox Security Technology (which allows division between work and personal data on Samsung phones) and said that they (as in Google) would be using the technology in Android as well.

Android devices can now function in Bluetooth Low Energy peripheral mode, which will let apps use this to let nearby devices know the presence of the smartphone. For instance, developers can apps that let a device function as a pedometer or health monitor and transmit data to another BLE device.

Android L will be out this fall. Image Tech2.

Given that Android L will also allow for integration across Google devices such as Chromebooks, smartwatches that run on Android Wear, cars that support Android Auto, it’s evident that the company is pushing for a larger agenda with Android being the sun around which all of this will revolve. With Android L, what we’re seeing are some refreshing changes to the OS, but for users L will mean more if they end up getting the updates as soon as it is released, otherwise many won’t get access to these features.

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Apps at Google I/O: Slides, Android TV remote control, MS Office support and more!

Google flagged off the I/O developer conference by introducing Android L, Android Auto, Android TV and more. Along with the nifty software and hardware announcements, the search giant also introduced a couple of new apps that are now available on the Play Store.

Firstly, Google has announced ‘native’ Office document editing support for Google Docs. Users can now import documents by preserving all of Microsoft Office’s formatting. Without mentioning Microsoft, Google made it quite clear that it will allow users to save files as Word files. Users can also convert files to Google Docs format mid-edit. Google Docs and Sheets standalone apps were recently launched for Andorid and iOs users, and finally Slides joins the convoy.

The Slides app is also available on Google Play store for editing presentations on mobile devices. It now allows users to ”create and share mobile slides straight from your mobile devices,” Pichai said during the keynote. Editing presentation has been a long-awaited demand from Android users.

A couple of hours after the keynote, the Android TV Remote app also made it to the Play store. It helps users control all the Android TV devices. As we know that Android TV wont come until late this year, it has been designed for the developer kit that was announced at the event and the reason why Google has made it available on the Play store. Moreover, it is believed to be working with all current Android devices.

Along with the Android TV remote, the Google Cast Receiver is also available on the Play store. This app is designed to turn your Android TV into a Chromecast-enabled device. Only developers with access to the developer kit can try out the full functionality of this app.

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Google unveils Android L: And the L stands for…?

Finally, the next iteration of Android is here with a refreshing new look and some cool improvements. Google has introduced it as ‘L release’ without giving any specific name, and has kickstarted the guessing game for which dessert the search giant pick would pick next. The company will release the developer preview later today and will probably christen it when the first official devices running it finally arrive later this year.

The next version of Android is about to begin with L, and there are a lot of theories as to what the name could be. While lollipop, lemonhead and licorice seem to be a current crowd favourite globally, Indians are expecting it to be named after the desi sweet – Laddu or Ladoo. In fact, last year a group of students from IIT-Kharagpur – which also happens to be Pichai’s alma mater – have been lobbying for the next version of Android to be named Lassi.

HTC has quickly put out an image showing several options to consider from including lemon meringue, lady fingers, lava cake and even lemonade. There are some who also feel, the name is ‘L’ itself, while others think the company is buying time to fetch a sponsored brand. The Indian Twitrrerati is rooting for Ladoo, while some are ripping into the name, saying Ladoo’s updates would be called Motichur, Boondi, etc. Some others are busying joking around the L itself…as in L for Loser.

So what do you think? Will Google release a ‘sweet’ name or will L remain the final name? Let us know. We’d love to see more options.

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Google Glass turning into a fashion accessory; DVF designer collection goes on sale

As promised, the DVF | Made for Glass collection is now up for grabs online. Earlier this year, Google had teamed with DVF, fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg’s studio for its newest range of Google Glass designs. The DVF collection adds five new frames to the Glass, which are up for sale via Google and online fashion retailer Net-a-Porter.

The five new shades and eight frames have been designed especially for women. The frames are available in five colours namely, brown, shiny lagoon, shiny elderberry, matte java and matte ice, and will cost $300 additional, which means the combination will cost $1,800. Meanwhile, the original Titanium Collecion frames are also available on MrPorter for $1650.

Looks like, Google is looking to add the fashion element to its Glass. DVF also took the Glass to New York Fashion week. Google has also partnered with Luxottica, which means Ray-Ban and Oakley-branded frames and shades for the Glass should eventually surface.

DVF shades now available

Moreover, seems Google also plans to take its Glass global, finally. It has already taken the first step by moving out of US, and headed to the UK. Google wants optometrists, sports lovers, online retailers, cooks and travellers to try out the Glass, and also looking forward to their feedback to improve the product. A grander commercial launch is expected sometime later this year.

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Google I/O preview: Key changes expected in next version of Android

Google I/O is just over a day away and a lot of things could soon be changing. As we have already seen in our previews, Google’s TV product could be in for a major overhaul, while Chrome and Chrome OS are expected to have new features too. And then there’s Android Wear, which is likely to be the headlining act at the Moscone Center West tomorrow evening.

But it’s Android that will be most closely watched, at least as far as India is concerned. Google’s new services usually take their time coming to India, but Android is here and dominating big time. So the changes to the OS will affect Indian users the most. So what can you expect at Google I/O? If indeed Google decides to show us the next-gen Android, we are in for some major changes.

The big Android redesign

Design will be a key focus at I/O this year, as Google looks to bring a consistency in US in Chrome, Android and its Web products. We have already seen the new design language called Quantum Paper in the form of the new Google+ app, which features a colour-blocked top bar and bigger buttons for quick actions. We have also seen this particular design leak for Gmail’s Web version, so Google could finally be bringing a measure of consistency across board.

As Ars Technica points out, Matias Duarte, the head of Android user experience and big driving force in Android design, has indicated that the company is rethinking its design strategy. “We need to stop thinking of ‘mobile’ as a distinct category,” he is quoted as saying, while the report adds that Google is considering desktop, mobile, car, and wearable as one product from a design point of view.

Redesign coming to Android

Android app icons could also be getting a makeover which is said to be called Moonshine internally, while some other changes have also leaked, such as a native Help interface for Google’s core apps, instead of webpages.

64-bit support

Android will finally be able to support 64-bit architecture. In the past few months, post Apple’s big 64-bit announcement last year, there has been a lot of talk about Android also getting 64-bit support. It would allow devices to have over 4GB of RAM, while newer chips based on this architecture are expected to be blazing fast. Chipmakers will have to quickly align themselves with the 64-bit support; leading names such as MediaTek, Qualcomm have already started work on 64-bit multi-core chips.

ART—Android RunTime

Dalvik, the runtime that powers Android, is one of the most crucial cogs of the OS, since it allowed developers to easily port older apps for the platform, which in turn resulted in the proliferation of apps, which consequently drove hordes towards Android. But come I/O and we could be bidding adieu to Dalvik and saying hello to Android RunTime or ART. Some users would already be familiar with ART, since it’s been an experimental runtime in Android 4.4 KitKat.

Thanks to a dedicated session for ART, we know that Google is expanding its role and could be making it the default instead of Dalvik. Essentially, with ART Android goes from just-in-time (JIT) compiling to an ahead-of-time (AOT) compiler, meaning your apps won’t be compiled every time they are run, but only when they are first installed. This should increase install sizes, but most importantly boost app performance, and could also help in lower power consumption.

Better photography?

Frankly, we are tiring of hearing about Google’s upcoming Camera API. It’s been months since we first heard that it’s coming, but it’s nowhere to be seen. But I/O could finally change that if the developer session for the new Camera API is any indication. Commits to AOSP showed the API would bring about RAW image support, native burst mode and removable cameras.

Improved camera experience?

Security and BYOD

Finally, we can see Google making a bigger play for security and enterprise device management. Android has been struggling in the race to become the BlackBerry replacement at the workplace, while Apple has been hitting the right notes with its OS updates.

As far as security is concerned, Google is supposedly working on a kill switch for Android, which would allow users to not just remotely wipe the device, but also lock it till it gets back in their possession. This would presumably be part of the current Android Device Manager app, but would also require changes on a low-level to enable such a lock.

Then there are SlickLogin and Bump acquisitions, and the emergence of Google Nearby, which could improve two-step verification, which requires user intervention, with a more stealthy authentication, by ‘listening’ for devices close by.

And lastly, Google’s purchase of Divide earlier this year, hints that the company is taking its lack of enterprise-friendly features seriously. Google is banking on Divide’s technology to make businesses feel more comfortable about Android and allowing their employees to use Android devices for business email and tasks involving other sensitive information. Divide’s device-management tools are available for iOS, but Google’s acquisition suggests native separation of information is coming to Android.

Android devices

There’s no clear indication that any Android phone or tablet hardware is coming to I/O, though last year too, we didn’t know Google would be announcing Play Store editions for some phones. That was finalised last year, and this year we could see Android Silver replacing the Nexus line altogether. But the fabled Nexus series could see one last hurrah in the form of the Nexus 9 or HTC ‘Volantis’, which leaked earlier this week.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S first impressions: Finally, a Samsung tablet that can rival the iPad

It’s easy to see why Samsung made a big hoopla about their new Tab S launch, now that we’ve seen them. This is no run of the mill Tab refresh that Samsung ritually performs year after year. The Tab S is Samsung’s way of telling the Android competition why they are the one to beat. With a tighter control of the hardware and software than ever before, the Tab S is at long last, a Samsung tablet that can actually go toe to toe with Apple’s offering.

Both the 8.4-inch and 10.5-inch tablet sport 2560×1600 pixel resolution screens

Samsung had the iPad Air and mini with Retina clearly in its crosshairs when designing the Tab S series. The display is the talking point of the new tabs and when compared to Apple’s Retina displays side by side, the colours are noticeably richer and punchier. Black levels are as inky you’ll ever get and the new display modes like adaptive display, prevents colours from looking oversaturated, which is an easy trap to fall in when it comes to Super AMOLED displays.

Samsung has designed flip cover accessories

The 8.4 and 10.5 models are pretty much identical spec for spec except for the battery size of course. They are both lighter and thinner than Apple’s offerings. As far as premium feel goes, we will say that they are an upgrade from their existing Tab series but it’s really hard to make plastic feel anything close to actual aluminium. The Tab S is lighter but you sacrifice the feel of cold metal for plastic.

Perforated plastic back, like the Galaxy S5

The perforated back is intentionally designed to look like an S5 since both devices are flagships in their own right. The two circular buttons are just that, physical push buttons which make attaching the smart cover a lot easier without adding bulk. The Tab S is not waterproof like the S5 however, it does inherit the fingerprint scanner. Both tablets have IR blasters and the same 8MP rear camera and 2.2MP front facing.

Thinner than both the iPads

One of the biggest additions is the new software features like SideSync 3.0 and Remote PC. The former is similar to Apple’s Continuity and Handodd, except that instead of just reciving calls through the tablet, SideSync actually creates a virtual image of your S5 on the Tab S and lets you use all the functions as if you were physically using the phone. Both devices connect over Wi-Fi Direct which allows you to transfer files as well with good speed. This also comes in handy in MultiWindow mode.

The 8.4-inch variant has a very real chance of dethroning the iPad mini

The UI is surprisingly quick and fluid. In fact, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say this is the fastest we’ve seen TouchWiz on any Galaxy device. The Magazine UX interface is similar to the Tab Pro and Note Pro but tweaked a bit.

Samsung has tweaked the Magazine UX slightly for the new tabs

The aggressive pricing from Samsung is what got everyone in the audience really excited. The Tab 10.5 and Tab 8.4 start at $499 and $399, for the 16GB, Wi-Fi only models. Sound familiar? Samsung is ruthlessly going after Apple’s turf by offering a better spec’d tablet with a similar look and feel (thinner and lighter in fact) for the same price. Not only that, Samsung is throwing in a whole bunch of freebies by signing up exclusive partnerships with folks like Marvel, Conde Nast, Netflix and many others. Samsung is not leaving any stone unturned as it’s covering its bases very well in terms of content for consumption.

Here’s a short video hands-on with the Galaxy Tab S 8.4:



The Tab S series is quite something. It’s nothing like Samsung’s previous or current offerings which is why this gets its own special launch event. Our only fear is, can Samsung commit to the Tab S in terms of regular updates and bug fixes? We’re confident that the Tab S is convincing enough to sway prospective iPad buyers. However, in doing so, you’re also inadvertently buying to Samsung’s own little ecosystem. In order for some of the biggest features like SideSync 3.0 to work, you’ll need a high-end phone like the S5 or at least a relatively high-end Samsung device (we’re presuming at this point).

Could sway potential iPad buyers

The Tab S will hit stores in the US come July, with just the Wi-Fi models available initially followed by the LTE variants. Stay tuned for our full review of the new Tab S, which will be coming soon.

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Google Play Store UI change means apps can silently gain access to deadly permissions

Google recently updated the Android app version of the Google Play Store, which supposedly simplified the permissions interface for everyday users. But as reports and developer accounts around the Web are suggesting, Google may have made a huge error in allowing these changes to become real.

The crux of the problem is that with the latest Play Store app, new permissions sought by an app during the course of an update, are hidden away from the update dialogue, under certain fairly common situations. Novice or non-power users cannot see which new permissions have been asked for unless they cancel the update and go back to the app details page and find the exact new permissions.

The security issue arises when an app already has access to a permission group such as Contacts and Calendar, or Phone, or Photos/Media/Files. When being updated, it can now gain access to any sub-permission within these groups, without notifying the user right then and there.

This obviously was done so as to not confuse novice or non-power users with a screen showing a whole lot of new permissions. Sure it makes a lot sense, but it also puts these very users at risk. A power user can dig around within granted permissions to see if something is amiss. But that’s not the case with someone who may not know what a particular permission means.

For example, the “Phone” permissions group allows access to directly call phone numbers, which is useful in a variety of different contexts, such as in a restaurant review app where you can call and reserve a table through the app itself. However, sub-permissions within this group allow an app to read and write your call logs, which means it can make calls and delete them from your log. It could reroute outgoing calls to different destinations, such as premium rate numbers. So If ‘X’ app already is allowed one permission within the ‘Phone’ group, it can gain access to any number of permissions under it, without making it clear to the user that it has gained these.

This was not the case earlier and in fact, instead of making users more secure and less likely to succumb to malicious apps, Google has made this change which is thoroughly baffling.

Previously, when an application update requested additional permissions even within the same group, users would be notified and have to accept the change before updating. This could have made a lot of new users extremely wary, especially if the permissions screen had too many new permissions. Some users might not even fully understand these permissions. Previously, apps which needed new permissions would have to be updated manually, after the user physically confirming that they were allowing the app these permissions.

What the new system does is allows security threats to come from literally any corner. If you have been using an app habitually, it becomes essential to your smartphone experience. Now, when it updates, it can silently add new permissions within groups it already has existing permissions in.

Another huge security threat comes from the fact that access to the Internet is a permission hidden under ‘Other’. That’s usually used to describe an impertinent group, and we can see the reasoning considering most apps need access to data. But the change allows any app to gain access to the internet silently, with the user clueless.

In a Reddit post, iamtubeman revealed the extent to which the new system could damage a user’s life. To illustrate the gaping hole, he created an app, which asked for these permissions:
android.permission.GET_TOP_ACTIVITY_INFO
android.permission.GET_ACCOUNTS
android.permission.ACCESS_COARSE_LOCATION
android.permission.WRITE_CALL_LOG
android.permission.READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE
android.permission.SUBSCRIBED_FEEDS_WRITE

He then updated the app and published the new version on the Play Store, which asked for further permissions within groups the app had already been allowed permissions to. These wouldn’t be immediately visible to an average user who doesn’t know what permissions are meant to be. The updated app demanded and easily got the following permissions:
android.permission.READ_HISTORY_BOOKMARKS
android.permission.READ_PHONE_STATE
android.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION
android.permission.ACCESS_LOCATION_EXTRA_COMMANDS
android.permission.READ_SMS
android.permission.RECEIVE_MMS
android.permission.RECEIVE_SMS
android.permission.SEND_SMS
android.permission.WRITE_SMS
android.permission.WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE
android.permission.MOUNT_FORMAT_FILESYSTEMS
android.permission.MOUNT_UNMOUNT_FILESYSTEMS
android.permission.SUBSCRIBED_FEEDS_READ

With this seemingly innocuous update, the app could monitor and store your internet bookmarks, access phone state, which is a gateway to your IMEI number, SIM contacts, SIM messages and also track you using GPS in real time since it has access to fine location. The extra commands permissions allows it to upload location data to a server, which is what many fitness tracking apps use. Your SMSes could be monitored, read and stored on the cloud, and your documents and files on the SD card are an open book. Needless to say all that data being leaked to some unknown hacker or attacker can lead to seriously bad consequences for everyone.

Google has to take steps to reverse this change and it better be working on it already, considering they have already got the attention of the biggest Android community voices on the Internet.

XDA Developers had harsh words for Google. “What on Earth was Google thinking this was implemented? Perhaps now is time to say “Sayonara” to Google Apps, and take a look at alternatives that better preserve your privacy and give you control over your own data.”

There’s a general agreement that Google has done a disservice to its users with this change and needs to overhaul the permissions screen and usage, and perhaps even the terminology used. “In an ideal scenario, this will ultimately end with an overhaul of the Android permissions system, which has scaled admirably with the changing demands of the market, but there are certainly areas for improvement,” Android Police said, in its report on the loophole.

There’s a lot Google can learn from Apple, but nobody wants Android to go the iOS way, where permissions are tackled on a per-session basis. That makes for distracting UX, in comparison to the fluidity that Android’s system espouses. However, it’s not asking for too much if Google can make the language used in permissions easier to understand and be up front about what new permissions, even if they are trivial and minor, an app needs access to.

As XDA points out, “I would place a lot of money on app developers hating this. And if they did, I’d feel as if I did my job right. This would mean that users were taking back control of their devices and their data.”

Time for Google to act.

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Apple pulls slightly ahead of Google in the iOS vs Android battle

Apple is calling the iOS 8 the biggest release since the launch of the App Store and it does give users plenty of new features and developers the tools to create amazing new apps. But what does this mean for Android and Google? How do the two biggest competitors in the mobile OS market stack up against each other? How does this latest release change the game?

Apple CEO Tim Cook took some serious potshots at Android during the keynote address. When talking about users who switched from Android to iOS, he said: ”They had bought an Android phone, by mistake, and then sought a better experience. And a better life. And decided to check out iPhone and iOS.” He also pointed out how Android was the place where malware ruled.

Tim Cook’s jibes aside, an iOS 8 vs Android assessment is necessary and important, given that they are the biggest mobile players in the world. We’re looking at these comparison points in particular: Messages, Camera, Online Cloud Storage, Continuity, HomeKit and HealthKit app. The reason we’ve included HomeKit and HealthKit app is because these areas are going to experience massive growth in the mobile sector and there’s no way that Google hasn’t started working on these.

Messages: Apple has given iMessage a serious upgrade. Users can now name message threads, exit or enter a thread as they wish. There’s also a Do Not Disturb option to a group chat without having to leave it. Audio and video messages can be shared on Group chats and regular iMessaging. They also have a Snapchat-like self-destruct function that users can opt out of too.

Also SMSes, can be synced across Apple devices from Macs to iPads. iMessage now feels like a combination of WhatsApp, Snapchat and regular messaging.

No wonder that Jan Koum, WhatsApp’s CEO was unhappy and tweeted saying, “very flattering to see Apple “borrow” numerous WhatsApp features into iMessage in iOS 8 #innovation”

So how does Android’s SMS app compare to iMessage?

Google had merged Hangouts and the SMS app which meant that users could search across contacts, including Google accounts. All SMS and MMS messages come in this one place.

Of course, users who might be on devices such as Nexus 4 which had a native SMS app might not choose to merge the two given the privacy issues that plague Google.

Hangouts, of course, allows users to have groups chats, share videos, etc, but this SMS-Hangout marriage is an Android KitKat feature. Since only 9 percent users are on this build of Android, most people are still stuck on the boring SMS app.

Add to that the fragmented manufacturing scene that Android faces, users get different SMS apps in different devices. Unless it’s a pure Android phone.

In the short-term, Apple’s iMessage is winning purely because if you have an iPhone 4S and above — you have all access to all the features. In Android, getting the latest feature in SMS, depends on what build of smartphone you’re using.

Camera: In iOS 8, shooting and editing photos will definitely get better. Users can now take a picture, then modify it with a single touch. The new camera app will let users adjusts exposure, brightness, contrast, and more.

In fact as you make the changes to photo’s colour scheme, the smartphone will show how the levels are changing in real time. Interestingly third-party app developers can make their filters and editing tools also accessible in the Photos app directly.

There’s also a Time-lapse mode in Camera. Basically it can help users capture the sun setting, etc. iOS 8 will take the photos at selected intervals and stitch it together as video.

In Android, the Camera app in KitKat also offers features similar to iOS 8. Users can instantly edit pictures will filters, change exposure, contrast, crop a picture. Of course, unlike iOS 8, Android doesn’t allow third-party apps to provide their filters, but again the native Camera apps are pretty evenly matched.

Of course, OEMs tend to add their own modes to the camera app and thus Android has an advantage here that Apple doesn’t always offer.

HealthKit app: Let’s face it Google is far behind Apple in this area. There are APIs on Health from Google but no dedicated health app like Healthkit. Of course Google could announce its own native app for this at the upcoming Google I/O later this month (25-26 June) but for now Apple has the lead.

With the HealthKit app, Apple has pulled ahead of Android.

The HealthKit app can pull in data from other third-party apps and this can be accessed by healthcare professionals as well of course depending on how much access users give to this app.

Apple partnered with the world-renowned Mayo Clinic on this. With HealthKit, the iPhone will keep a tab on important health metrics on a daily basis, and over a longer period.

iOS 8′s double swipe will also show your most used contacts as well. Image: Tech2.

After Mayo Clinic, Nike is also partnering with Apple for HealthKit. Apple promises that the data on Health will have deep privacy protection in place to store these sensitive records safely.

Of course, Samsung is one Android manufacturer that has been taking the Health-Smartphone link seriously. The S5 comes with a heart-rate sensor, an improved S-Health app, but given that its not available on other Androids, it’s pretty much an S5 and Samsung feature.

HomeKit: Google might have bought Nest first but Apple showed that it leads in the smart home game by announcing HomeKit. Essentially Apple is hoping that users will trust their iPhones and sync it with other home products.

Users can connect their iPhone/iPad and control garage-door openers, lights, and security cameras, even thermostats and switches.

Users can just control these through Siri. For example, they could say “Get ready for bed” and the house lights will dim. Of course. you’ll need products that are certified for the HomeKit.



For Android, catching up to the competition will be tough. As this Mashable piece points out, “Google will have a tough time convincing consumers that Android will safeguard their privacy and security as well as iOS might (the stat that Tim Cook cited, that 99% of mobile malware targets Android, happens to be true).”

Cloud capability: Even with the new iCloud Drive, Apple is still playing catch with Google. Google Drive already lets you edit documents from inside and share links on Gmail via Google Drive.

iCloud Drive offers similar features to users and now allows them to arrange documents, photos by tags, folders etc. Apple will also let you share large files as well which is something that Google was already offering. Where iCloud Drive is concerned, this is nothing new and doesn’t really set iOS 8 apart from Android.

Also users can search for iCloud documents directly from the Spotlight bar, which means that you don’t actually have to save documents on the iPad or iPhone. Google Drive doesn’t yet offer this feature, where you can search directly for Google Drive docs from the Search bar on the Homepage.

Continuity: Continuity is where Apple’s advantage of being a hardware and software manufacturer is showcased. Documents from OS X can open seamlessly on iOS and vice-versa. You can also take calls from your iPhone on your MacBook or iPad or iMac.

To be fair, Motorola and Samsung have offered features similar to this. Also, Gmail lets users access the email via draft with its real-time saving capability. Google also offers browsing and tab sync via its Chrome browser extensions, features which are similar to Continuity.

The problem though for Google is that it doesn’t occupy an important part of the Desktop space or even the PC space and thus such syncing is only available at an account level on Google.

Apple has come very close to the idea of ‘one OS, one account but multiple devices’ with Continuity.

It’s clear that despite Google’s dominance in the smartphone market, Apple has more than just a few tricks up it’s sleeve. It has also shown that it isn’t shy of taking the battle to the next level. iOS 8 allows Apple users to bring their devices together in a seamless manner — something that Android will be looking to do as well. The battle has been joined — just how will Google respond?

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Google teams up with DVF for designer Glass frames

Google has now teamed with DVF, fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg’s studio for its newest range of Google Glass designs. The all-new ‘DVF | Made for Glass collection’ will bring five new frames to the Glass, which will be up for sale via Google and online fashion retailer Net-a-Porter starting June 23 . According to TheVerge, a new frame designed by DVF along with Glass and prescriptive lenses will cost $1,725. On the other hand, Furstenberg’s sunglasses plus Glass are priced at $1,620.

In its official Google+ post, the company writes, “Today we’re announcing the DVF | Made for Glass collection, a collaboration that brings chic eyewear designs by iconic American fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg to the Glass Explorer Program. These new designs build on the style choices we gave Explorers when we launched the Titanium Collection in January.”

While the tech behind the Google Glass has been lauded by tech enthusiasts, the design hasn’t been widely accepted. Many believe that the existing design could make you look ‘silly’ in crowd. The new frames are aimed at solving this issue, as the design brings more stylish and regular glasses-like look.

After being available for a limited time in the US, Google later launched the device for everyone in the US. Google wants optometrists, sports lovers, online retailers, cooks and travellers to try out the Glass, and also looking forward to their feedback to improve the product. As of now the product is still in the beta stage, and a commercial launch is expected later this year.

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Google’s self-driving car is real: No steering, accelerator or brake

Google’s self-driving car is no secret. The Search giant has now built some prototypes. Yes, you heard it right. The Google car is for real, and interestingly comes without a steering wheel, accelerator pedal, or brake pedal, as a car driver won’t need any of it. The software and sensors do all the driving.

Google reportedly aims at building up to 200 such cars and hopes these vehicles will be available in various cities within the next couple of years.

Google is known to be testing self-driving cars since 2009, incorporating laser sensors and radars into standard automobiles such as the Prius from Toyota Motor Corp and sport-utility vehicles from Toyota luxury car division Lexus, according to Reuters.

While those vehicles require a human to remain in the driver’s seat and to take over in certain situations, the new cars operate completely autonomously.

In its official blog post, Google reveals, “The vehicles will be very basic—we want to learn from them and adapt them as quickly as possible—but they will take you where you want to go at the push of a button. And that’s an important step toward improving road safety and transforming mobility for millions of people. “

Looks like the Nano

For now, it is a cute-looking ptototype that would remind you of Tata Nano. If the technology develops, Google plans to work with partners to bring this technology into the world safely. Talking about the interiors, the car has two seats and some space for passengers’ belongings. “On the inside, we’ve designed for learning, not luxury, so we’re light on creature comforts, but we’ll have two seats (with seatbelts), a space for passengers’ belongings, buttons to start and stop, and a screen that shows the route—and that’s about it,” adds the blog.

Basically, at the push of a button, the car safely takes you to your destination, says Google. It has been designed keeping safety in mind. The self-driving Google car is infused with sensors that can remove blind spots and detect distant objects. For now, the speed limit has been capped to 25mph. With the new car, drunk and distracted driving will be history, says Google.

Google has also posted a video with several people talking about their experience after a test drive. A passenger said how she can utilize the time to spend with her kids rather than focussing on driving, while an elderly couple shared how the car went really slow before a curve and accelerated only in the curve. Take a look at the video below:

Google plans to build a hundred prototype vehicles, and later this summer, the company’s safety drivers will start testing early versions of these vehicles that have manual controls. Google also plans to run a small pilot program in California in the next couple of years, provided all goes well.

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