Google might be changing the launcher for the 2016 Nexus

If we’re to believe a new report from Android Police, Google’s changing the way you access its launcher in the upcoming Nexus devices. One big change is getting rid of the launcher icon. What you’ll get instead of the button is the ability to swipe at the bottom of the screen to get to your apps. You’ll see a white arrow pointing upwards to indicate there’s more to swipe down there. And quick-launch icons have a frosted white color surrounding them. This makes sense in that it adds an extra icon space at the bottom.

The search bar is also gone and replaced with a “G” nub” that you can tap to start a search. The phone will still allow you to swipe right to access Google Now. Also on the primary homescreen is what looks like a permanent calendar widget. Android Police pointed out that the launcher wasn’t running on Android Nougat and some of the features weren’t working yet.

Niantic CEO’s Twitter account gets hacked

Niantic CEO John Hanke joins the list of high-profile Twitter users to get hacked. On July 31^st, a series of tweets appeared on his feed with the hashtag OurMine. The hackers claim it came from Brazil, where his company’s game Pokémon Go has yet to be released. Interestingly enough, OurMine is an actual company that claims to assess social network account security—making it seem like the hack is a marketing stunt that encourages users to upgrade the security of their profiles. The public’s reaction to the hack though is generally negative as they claim it’s a poor way to get that message across or even to express any criticisms about the game.

Source: CNET

Uber plans to invest into developing its own worldwide maps

Uber currently makes uses of Google’s mapping technology to power its app. But it looks like that isn’t enough for them. According to The Financial Times, Uber wants to invest half a billion dollars into making their own worldwide maps that will be more detailed and show things like traffic patterns, door locations, and other potential pickup locations. The development of this tailor-made map would also help further the autonomous vehicle project of the company.

Other moves Uber has made in the past in terms of mapping include hiring former Google employees like Brian McClendon and forging partnerships or acquiring mapping companies such as TomTom and DigitalGlobe.

Source: The Verge

Leak shows Samsung’s new Gear VR might work with the S6

A new leak ahead of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 event on August 2^nd shows the upcoming Gear VR headset and its features. According to OnLeaks and French tech site Nowhereelse, one of the key things about it is it’ll supposedly support not just the Note 7 but even the Galaxy S6. It’ll also reportedly offer a wider 110-degree view versus the 96-degree view offered by its predecessor. We’re just a couple of days away from seeing what Samsung plans to do with its new Gear VR. And of course, if all the rumours about the Note 7 hold up.

Source: Engadget