Category: Google

Google Home Smart Speakers Will Launch Exclusively On Flipkart

Google India is hosting an event on the 10th of April for the launch of the Google Home smart speakers. Flipkart has now made a dedicated page for the Google Home speakers. The Flipkart page features a Google Home and Google Home Mini with a hashtag #MakeGoogleDoIt. Additionally, the page also mentions different capabilities of these devices like hands-free play and pause gestures.

The Google Home and the Google Home Mini are the first set of smart speakers from the company which will also be powered by the Google Assistant. These smart speakers need to be connected to a Wi-Fi network. The speakers act as great music players but once connected they can be used to also control different smart home accessories like a smart bulb. Additionally, these speakers can also be used to schedule a task, set an alarm, ask for trivia or the latest news.

As of now, the only competition the Google’s smart speaker lineup is the Amazon Echo series of smart speakers. Amazon had launched the Echo Plus, Echo, and Echo Dot in India for a price of Rs 14,990, 9,999, and 4,499 respectively. Considering these prices, the Google Home and Google Home Mini are likely to be priced at Rs 9,999 and Rs 4,499 respectively. However, the official price might vary a bit.

Google Home Specs

Available in two color variants one with White, while the other a Slate fabric finish. The larger smart speaker has a 2 inch driver with dual 2 inch passive radiators. The speaker requires 16.5 Volts and 2A current, which is why the speaker is needed to be connected to a power source at all times. One can connect to these speakers using an iOS or Android smartphone using the Google Home app. The speaker supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi Bands . Additionally, these speakers can be connected to run as a single set of speakers or for multi room playback.

Weight (g)	477
Supported Audio Formats	HE-AAC, LC-AAC, MP3, Vorbis, WAV (LPCM), FLAC, Opus
Wireless network	802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5Ghz) Wi-Fi
Speaker	2in driver + dual 2in passive radiators
Connections	DC power jack, Micro-USB port (for service only)

Google Home Mini Specs

The Mini has a similar functionality in a compact form factor. The speaker will launch in three different finishes, which includes Chalk, Charcoal, and Coral. Due to smaller form factor, it requires 5 Volts and 1.8 Amps power. However, it packs in a smaller speaker, which might not be able to fill out even a small room.

Weight Approximate	173 g
Height	4.2 cm
Colour	Chalk
Sound System	360° Circle Sound
Wireless Speakers	Yes
Power Source	Power Adapter

April 6, 2018

Google To Revive Nexus Brand For Mid-Range Pixel

Google as a smartphone manufacturer, became popular for its Nexus devices which were known for being alpha devices approved by Google for their Stock Android OS. This was, until the Mountain View-based company launched the Google Pixel in 2016, to much dismay of Nexus fans. Nexus smartphones and tablets were designed by OEMs like Samsung, HTC, Huawei and LG while they ran stock Android in their respective years, post-Android 2.1 (Eclair). In 2016, however, Google decided to remove any third party OEM branding with the Google Pixel lineup. Google heavily refined the software experience for the Pixel phones while these devices were still supposedly manufactured by OEMs.

According to a recent news report, Google is apparently working towards launching a mid-range Pixel smartphone in India. According to sources close to iGyaan, these devices may carry the Nexus branding, resurrecting the once loved smartphone brand. The unique proposition for Nexus smartphones was their premium specs, look and feel at an affordable price, a flagship killer so to speak, much like many flagship killers of today from brands like OnePlus, Honor and Xiaomi. This means that a new Nexus smartphone will carry a certain perception that previous Nexus devices built during their existence.

A Nexus Take on the iPhone SE 2

Google is expected to launch the new smartphone in June 2018 along with the new Pixelbook. This will pretty much be Google’s answer to the iPhone SE, and the possible iPhone SE 2 which is expected to launch in India during the same time. If we look at the numbers, Google sold 3.9 million Pixel smartphones globally in 2017 while Apple sold 214.9 million devices. The existence of offline stores and affordable iPhone models like the iPhone SE has, in fact, helped Apple to achieve these sale figures in countries like China and India which are highly price sensitive.

As is with every smartphone launch in India, the pricing will play a huge role here. Google will have to keep the price of the new device as low as possible without defeating their own Pixel brand. The likes of OnePlus, Honor and Xiaomi already dominate the affordable flagship category. In the budget segment, Xiaomi, Nokia and Motorola have solid offerings. However, the mid-range segment of Rs 20,000-25,000 has a gaping hole.

Another important aspect is the accessibility. A majority of users in markets like India still prefer offline shopping for smartphones. A report claims that Google will address this by focussing on the offline market through brick and mortar stores. How this strategy will impact the sales of the upcoming Nexus device/s, will be a prediction as good as any other. But if the company manages a solid offering with a great value, much like the original Nexus devices, it may give companies like OnePlus a run for their money.

April 4, 2018
Google Home, Home Mini To Launch In India On April 10th

Google has sent out an invite to a new product launch on the 10th Of April in New Delhi. The official press invites says ‘join us as we bring you a sweet little something that’s bound to keep you talking for a long, long while.’ The company will launch the Google Home and Home Mini.

The Google Home and Home Mini are the first set of smart speakers from Google, powered by the Google Assistant. These smart speakers need to be connected to a Wi-Fi network, where they can be used to control different smart home accessories like a smart bulb. Additionally, these speakers can also be used to schedule a task, set an alarm, ask for trivia or the latest news.

As of now, the only competition the Google Home has is the Amazon Echo series of smart speakers. Amazon had launched the Echo Plus, Echo, and Echo Dot in India for a price of Rs 14,990, 9,999, and 4,499 respectively. Considering these prices, the Home and Home Mini are likely to be priced at Rs 9,999 and Rs 4,499 respectively.

Google Home Specs

The Google Home comes in White and Slate fabric finish. The smart speaker has a 2 inch driver with dual 2 inch passive radiators. The speaker requires 16.5 Volts and 2A current, which is needed to be connected to a power source all the time. One can connect to these speakers using an iOS or Android smartphone. The speaker supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi Bands for high-performance streaming. Additionally, these speakers can be connected to the same device to have group playback.

Google Home Mini Specs

The Google Home Mini has a similar functionality in a compact form factor. The speaker comes in three different finish, which includes Chalk, Charcoal, and Coral. Due to smaller form factor, it requires 5 Volts and 1.8 Amps power. However, it packs in a smaller speaker, which might not be able to fill out even a small room.

April 2, 2018
Mid-Range Google Pixel To Launch In India Soon

Google Pixel series of smartphones are known for their unprecedented camera capabilities. However, unlike Moto or Xiaomi smartphones, the Pixel devices retail at a higher price tag. Google is now targeting markets like India, which has a huge demand for smartphones priced between Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000. According to a report, Google is planning to launch an Indian market specific device in July-August, which includes an affordable Pixel smartphone, Pixelbook and Nest devices. Additionally, the company will launch the Pixel 3 series of smartphones by Diwali.

If we look at the numbers, Google sold 3.9 million Pixel smartphones globally in 2017 while Apple sold 214.9 million devices. The existence of offline stores and affordable iPhone models like the iPhone SE has helped Apple to achieve these sale figures. Additionally, Google is still new to the hardware game and Apple has already established itself as a premium brand.

Pixel 2

Mid Range Google Pixel Specs

According to a report, Google will launch the mid-range Google Pixel smartphone and a Pixelbook in India by August 2018. However, the report does not specify the pricing or specifications of these devices. Along with these, the company might also launch the Nest series of smart home accessories. The Nest series of accessories comprises a thermostat and other smart home accessories.

Get ready to #MakeGoogleDoIt, at home too. Coming soon. pic.twitter.com/JuNvt3cpFE

— Google India (@GoogleIndia) April 2, 2018

Google will begin this launch by announcing the Google Home products. The company will launch the Google Home and Home Mini to take on the competition like the Amazon Echo speakers. The Home mini will retail for Rs 4,499 and the Home will retail at Rs 9,999. This time around, the company will focus on the offline market through brick and mortar stores. This means Google is most likely to set up stores in crowded places like malls and electronics stores.

April 2, 2018
Google Home Smart Speakers To Launch In India In April

The smart speakers industry has been thriving globally for a couple of years now. The Apple HomePod has recently joined the Amazon’s Echo lineup and Google’s Home speakers. In India, however, the only notable smart speakers available are the Amazon Echo speakers and the recently launched Eufy Genie. That is about to change, as Google will launch its Home smart speakers in India some time in April.

A new report claims that Reddington India has apparently communicated with its retailers about the scheduled launch. Right now, Google has three smart speakers in its Home lineup.], the Google Home Mini, Home and Home Max. In India, however, the company will to launch just the Home Mini and Home.

The Google Home Mini, launched as a competitor to the Amazon Echo Dot will launched at under Rs 5000. The smart home craze is still at a very nascent stage in India so, it will be interesting to see the battle between Google and Amazon here.

Of course, the Google Assistant powers the Home speakers. The smart speakers will be able to play songs, set reminders and call people with just a voice command. If users have smart products installed, the speakers will be able to control those as well. The Google Home smart speakers are expected to be optimised with local Indian languages, just like its AI assistant is.

The pricing here will play a huge part in consumers choosing the Google Home speakers over the Amazon Echo lineup. More details will follow.

March 29, 2018
Android Users Can Now Try Out Apps Before Installing Them With Google Play Instant

Google has launched a new service called ‘Play Instant’. It essentially allows users to try out apps and games before downloading or purchasing them. Users don’t have to download a separate app for this service as it blends in with the new Play Store app. The feature will be compatible with all Android devices.

This is another step by Google to save data and storage. The company recently announced Android Go as well. It is a much more toned down version of Android, meant to work on devices with less than 1GB RAM. The new service means that users can now try out new apps before wasting a lot of data. For people who are low on storage, they can analyse an app and decide whether they should free up space on their smartphone or not.

Android Go

While it sounds archaic to have a smartphone running out of storage, there are still a lot of people who use entry-level Android devices that have 8GB of onboard storage. For such people, Play Instant is a great service. Interestingly, there are a few games that are a part of this service right now. At the time of writing, Google had listed six games that can be tried out without installing.

Simultaneously, Google has also introduced the new Play Games app. While it doesn’t have a UI overhaul, it now features an ‘Arcade’ tab. This is where users can discover new games by watching trailers of new and old games. The idea is for Play Games and Play Instant to tie in together and allow users to try out every game. That, however, is still in a distant future.

March 21, 2018
Top Three E-Wallet Apps In India
For most of the transactions, we use physical currency. However, that goes out the window once most of your currency is demonetised. But, thanks to some really good e-wallet apps, transactions are not that difficult. So, let’s have a look at the top 3 e-wallet apps in India.

Paytm

Paytm is probably the first widely accepted e-wallet service in India. It can be accessed using an iOS or an Android smartphone. In fact, one can also access it using any of the standard web browsers. The platform comes with features like Paytm Wallet, where a user can use the wallet to make seamless transactions. Recently, Paytm has also started the Paytm payments bank, where the user can create a virtual savings bank account and get its own physical debit card. The platform also offers the ability to transfer money to bank accounts for a nominal fee. Paytm can be used to recharge mobiles, DHT, paying electricity bills, paying college tuition fees etc.
- Link to Android
- Link to iOS
Google Tez

Google Tez is the newest member of the e-wallet group. Unlike most of the e-wallets, Tez does not have the wallet service. The money sent/received will directly reflect in the user’s bank account. To use Google Tez, one has to have an active bank account with the Unified Payment Interface (UPI). Tez also offers coupons in return for the transactions. A user can win from Rs 1 to Rs 1,00,000by scratching those coupons on Google Tez. One can link the UPI account created on Tez to the third party apps like Uber. Similarly, one can invite others to Google Tez to earn Rs 51.
- Link to Android
- Link to iOS
Amazon Pay

Amazon Pay is similar to Paytm with an Amazon Wallet. As the name suggests, this feature is initiated by Amazon, which can be used to shop on Amazon. However, one can also use this feature to pay the post-paid account bills, recharge pre-paid numbers and can be used with other services like Bookmyshow and Tapzo. Amazon Pay comes with additional perks like 50% cashback on recharges, Rs 100 back by adding Rs 300 to the wallet and more. If you are an online shopping junkie, then this a must have e-wallet service.
- Link to Android
- Link to iOS
March 19, 2018
Android P Might Have iPhone X Like Gesture-Based Navigation

Google recently released the first developer preview of Android P. Since this is the first preview, the official version will be very different and new features will be added and discarded.

Reported by 9to5Google, it is possible that Android P will have native gesture-based navigation, similar to the iPhone X. While it might seem a bit far-fetched, it is possible. Google has already conceded that the “notch” is here to stay. The developer preview has support for a notch. Sources have said that an internal build of Android P running the April or May security patch has an iPhone X-like user interface.

OnePlus 5T Gestures

If this turns out to be true, there will be a lot of debate around the “inspiration” for this decision. However, Xiaomi and OnePlus have already started moving on to gestures. However, OnePlus is still testing the feature in a Beta build. Xiaomi, on the other hand, introduced the feature with Android 8 Oreo for the Mi MIX 2. This means that the Mi MIX 2S will also have this feature out of the box.

Over the years, stock Android OS, for all its stability and beauty, has lacked features that were readily available in custom skins. With a few smartphone makers adopting gestures, this could be a sign for Google. It is high time Google goes a step ahead and introduces a popular feature natively.

With smartphones moving closer to a bezel-less design, it doesn’t make sense to lose out on a little screen real estate because of the navigation buttons. Also, Android’s navigation system needs a little refresh after being so stagnant since its inception.

March 19, 2018
Google Wear OS Is Now Official

Wear OS is now officially the moniker that Google will use for its smartwatch OS. The new branding will be available on a select number of smartwatches, which were running Android Wear.

Google and its smartwatch OS has been fighting a losing battle with Apple’s watchOS. Apple Watch and its three iterations have helped Apple become the biggest watchmaker in the world. In the fourth quarter of 2017, Apple shipped more Apple Watches than the entire Swiss watch industry. With such enormous popularity, it feels like it will take more than just rebranding for Google to revive Android smartwatches.

While the rebranding kind of resembles the moniker Apple uses, the features are not similar in any way. Google, so far, has not announced any new features that will hit the market. Prominent non-Apple smartwatch makers like Samsung now use their own OS instead of Wear OS. However, unlike an Apple Watch, a Samsung S Gear watch is compatible with other Android devices.

Apple Watch

The exclusivity of the Apple Watch almost plays into its favour. Apple has built a massively impenetrable ecosystem around its devices. Every iPhone owner who wants a smartwatch is automatically no longer a potential Android smartwatch customer. That is solely because an Apple Watch works more cohesively with an iPhone.

Just like the Android OS market, Android Wear OS market is extremely fragmented. From Samsung, Huawei to Fossil, Android Wear smartwatches are made by a lot of manufacturers. This means that the level of customisation and cohesion that an Apple Watch provides, an Android Wear smartwatch simply cannot.

Google, however, is definitely trying to make it work. The smartwatch industry is well on its path to become similar to the tablet industry. Where its either an iPad or nothing. But, for Google to prevent that, it will take more than just rebranding.

March 16, 2018
Google Assistant Now Chats In Hindi
Google Assistant is one of the most used voice assistants in the world. The Google Assistant is available on Android smartphones running on Android 6 Marshmallow or newer versions. In fact, the company is also working to bring this feature to Android 5 Lollipop running devices.

It is also available for iOS, JioPhone, and Android Oreo Go edition smartphones as well. Google today announced that the Google Assistant will be now available in Hindi. Hindi is the first Indian language to support Google Assistant, which is the most commonly used language in India. Similarly, this will enable Google to onboard the next million users to use the Assistance, who cannot understand English.

The Google Assistant will get better over time. With your permission, it can learn your preferences, your likes and your dislikes. All these things happen in a private and secure way, without sharing your details. To access the Google Assistant in Hindi, set your device language to Hindi and update your Google Search app to the latest version.

Purvi Shah, Technical Program Manager, Assistant said:

The Google Assistant is truly Indian, it’s your helpful dost that speaks our language and understands the things you care about, from finding biryani recipes, to pulling up the latest cricket score, or finding directions to the nearest ATM. In order to make it even more useful to Indians over time, developers and businesses can now build Actions for the Hindi Assistant through the developer platform Actions on Google. Once an action is built, you can just say “Ok Google, talk to” and access the service or content straight through your Google Assistant.

Here are some examples of questions you can ask your Assistant
- Sabse kareeb Punjabi restaurant kahaan hain?
- Dadar tak pahunchne mein kitna samay lagega?
- Cricket ka score kya hain?
You can even instruct it
- Kal subah mujhe saat baje jagaao
- Selfie kheencho
- Daddy ko SMS bhejo “5 minutes mein pahunchenge”
March 15, 2018
Google Assistant Powered LG ThinQ Smart Display Now Available For Pre-Order

Evern since Google launched the Pixel 2 and the iPhone X came with a Bionic chipset, the trend of AI has been on a rise. Companies like Apple, Amazon, and Samsung have their own voice assistants, while the others have incorporated Google Assistant. At the CES 2018, LG announced the ThinQ Smart Display with Google Assistant and ThinQ Smart Assistant speaker. Both smart home accessories are now available on B&H for pre-order in the USA.

Pricing and availability

The LG ThinQ Smart Display with Google Assistant is priced at US$ 296.99 and the ThinQ Smart Assistant speaker is priced at US$ 196.99. Both models are available for pre-order. However, the website has not mentioned the shipping date.

Features of LG ThinQ Smart Display

The device has an 8 inch touchscreen display powered by LG ThinQ Artificial Intelligence. The device offers a premium sound clarity using Meridian Audio’s advanced technologies. Similarly, the device also comes with Google Assistant and support for Chromecast. The smart speaker has a front-facing camera. LG also claims that the device offers an immersive smart speaker experience using a touchscreen display. In fact, the speaker setup can be completed without connecting to a smartphone. However, just like every other smart speaker, the ThinQ Smart Display with Google Assistant requires an active Wi-Fi connection.

Features of LG ThinQ Smart Speaker

The device is similar to the most of the smart speakers. It comes in a cylindrical shape powered by LG ThinQ Artificial Intelligence. Similarly, the speaker also supports Google Assistant and comes with a dedicated button on the top with volume and pause/play button. The smart speaker is certified to support Hi-Res Audio (192kHz/24bit) with built-in Google Assistant and Google Chromecast.

March 15, 2018
New Google Maps Feature Lets Users Publicly List Locations
Google Maps recently announced a bunch of new features for India. These new features ease the process of searching or sharing an address. The company has combined area code with the local code to generate a unique “Plus” code for every geographical area. The Google Maps Plus code can be broadcasted across social media platforms for sharing.

Google Maps Plus Code

The Google Plus code is a combination of GPS location details and the local area pin code. Up until now, Google Maps let the users share direct GPS locations. However, with the Google Maps Plus Code, the sharing of location is a lot easier. This feature is available for both Android and iOS operating systems.

How to add missing Address
- Open Maps
- Touch and hold the place to select the marker
- Click on the description of the place
- Click on “Add a missing place” option
- Enter the details such as name, website etc and press the arrow mark on the top right corner
How to generate Plus Code
- Open Maps on your iOS or Android device
- Touch and hold the place to select the marker
- Click on the description of the place
- Scroll down to the bottom to find the Plus code
- Copy the code by pressing on it
How to search an address using Plus Code
- Copy and paste the code into Google Maps search bar and hit enter to find the navigation for the address
- Or simply, copy paste the code into Google search, and the address will be shown in the search results
March 14, 2018
Google Might Rebrand Android Wear To Wear OS

Android Wear has long fought a losing battle against Apple’s Watch OS. Smartwatches are the most predominant variant of wearable smart devices and it seems like Google just can’t crack the code. In a bid to reignite the interest and anticipation around Android Wear, the company might be willing to change things up a bit. Google is planning to re-instate Android Wear under a new moniker called, “Wear OS”. In fact, the name resembles Apple’s “Watch OS“, which powers the Apple Watch.

A new screenshot from a Reddit page clearly mentions the name “Wear OS” with a new logo, similar to the Google Assistance. This change was spotted in the Google Play Services Beta 1.25 with the “Nearby” feature.

According to statistics, Android Wear OS holds 18% share in the smartwatch market while Apple dominates with more than 50% of the share. It is also worth noting that even Qualcomm has stopped working on chipsets that power smartwatches. In fact, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 2100 was the last Android Wear chipset, which was announced in April 2017.

Apple Watch Series 3

Apple has created a complete ecosystem, that works seamlessly with the Apple Watch, iPhone, and Mac. However, Google has failed to replicate that user experience of the smartwatch across the devices. However, Google and Android Wear has failed to replicate the same ease of use and fluidity across its devices. The Wear OS is expected to offer seamless integration with a new user interface.

Expected Debut of Wear OS

Google is expected to announce the Wear OS along with Android P at I/O 2018. Similarly, the company is expected to launch Google Pixel Watch along with the Pixel 3 smartphones in late 2018.

March 12, 2018
Convert Your Dumb TV Into A Smart TV Using These Accessories

Xiaomi recently launched the Mi Smart TV 4 and 4A in India at very competitive pricing. These televisions are powered Android operating system with support for Wi-Fi. The USP of these TV is the “Smart TV” status, which differentiates them from the competition.

People, those who bought a new TV without the smart features might feel sad about their decision after Xiaomi smart TV launch. However, worry not, as you have three ways to convert your normal television into a smart television in less than Rs 5000.

To convert your standard television into a smart television, just plug-in the device and go through the on-screen setup process.

However, it is worth noting that your TV should have an HDMI port and a high-speed Wi-Fi connection.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

Amazon Fire TV Stick is available on Amazon for Rs 3,999. The device has received a massive response for its compact form factor and easy UI. One needs to have Amazon account and to access the contents of Amazon Prime Music and Prime Video. Similarly, the device comes with a pre-installed browser, which can be used to access the internet. The retail package also includes a remote, which can be used for the UI navigation. The device comes with 1GB RAM and 8GB storage, which can stream content up to 1080p.

Google Chromecast 2

Google Chromecast 2 works in a similar fashion with additional advantages. The device is priced at Rs 3,399 on Flipkart, which is a bit cheaper than the Amazon’s offering. One can connect their smartphone or laptop to the same network and can stream anything from games to movies. As this is developed by Google, the app support is also quite extensive. However, the retail package does not include a dedicated remote, as any smartphone can be used as a remote.

Xiaomi Mi TV Box

The Xiaomi Mi Tv Box is currently available on GearBest for US$ 67.5 (Rs 4387). Do note that, the shipping charges are also included in the price. The device runs on custom Android OS with 2GB RAM and 8GB Storage. This has an advantage over the other two devices, as the Xiaomi Mi TV Box can stream content up to 4K resolution. The device also has an additional USB port, which can read most of the video formats.

Buy the Mi TV Box here

March 10, 2018
Google Is Planning For A Faster Mobile Internet Experience

Most of the websites are designed for a desktop user experience. However, the number of people who access the internet through their smartphones is increasing by the day. In 2015, 55% of the Google searches came from a smartphone, which has been increased to 77% in 2016. This tells us that, 2 out of three users are accessing the internet through mobile devices.

To improve the mobile internet experience, Google came up with the concept called project Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP). It loads pages quickly on smartphones. Similarly, Facebook also uses Instant articles, which loads the stories on Facebook in quicker than a usual browser.

What is project AMP?

Project Accelerated Mobile Pages is a special initiative from Google, which offers a web-page in a mobile-friendly page. For instance, the articles on the Google news feed and Twitter load much faster compared to the standard loading speeds. However, the organisation which hosts the source article has to be a part of the AMP network.

AMP is an open source framework, so publishers don’t have to pay for the AMP implementation on their websites. The Accelerated Mobile Pages version of a website just displays the content without other elements. In fact, AMP engaged pages can load in less than 1.5 seconds, which helps to bring in more traffic.

However, AMP is also known for reducing the revenue, due to difficulty in ads implementation.

The next step

Google is happy with its progress so far and is planning to improve the complete internet experience. The company is visioning for the “User-First” mobile experience using the Accelerated Mobile Pages’ capabilities. However, this does not mean that Google is planning to own the entire internet, but, the company is planning to improve the smartphone internet user experience.

Google will provide the tools to several web standards organisation and help to do the research on the technology for setting new standard guidelines. Similarly, the mobile-friendly web will help Google’s Business-model. Google will start giving more insights about AMP to third-party developers, which answers the question of Google being greedy about owning the internet.

March 9, 2018