Pixel 2 expected to get 'Active Edge' and improved Google Assistant

Fast becoming one of the more anticipated smartphone releases this year, the successor to last year's Google Pixel tandem are still shrouded in mystery even as some marquee features are anticipated come October 4 as per FCC documents. The new Pixel, which we're calling Pixel 2, will be made by HTC and will feature an 'Active Edge' which makes it possible to squeeze the sides of the device to invoke an app or feature (i.e. bring up the camera or, more likely, conjuer up Google Assistant.

Google Assistant, which was one of the key features of last year's Pixel line is also expected to be able to handle more trigger words and, if reports are correct, should have a range of voices to choose from. The Pixel and larger Pixel XL (made by HTC and LG, respectively) are going to ship with Android 8 'Oreo' and should also bring water resistance while omitting the headphone jack. Stay tuned for our coverage of the launch and hands on of the products come October 4.

Source:BGR

Watch OS 4 coming to Apple Watch tomorrow

Apple Watch users get a free update tomorrow as Apple Watch OS 4 ships to existing users. The update focuses on improved activity tracking and motivation to help users 'close their circles' which is how Apple measures activity and fitness. Those who push harder are rewarded with various celebratory graphics and sign

Workout settings are more detailed and can be tailored to specific needs. There now require fewer button presses to get workouts started. Music playback on the Watch has also been significantly improved, this is ideal for runners who don't like bringing their iPhone along and have a Watch and wireless headphones.

A new Siri watch face makes notifications and calendar events more effective by having them come up closer to the time. Stay tuned for our initial impressions of Watch OS 4.

iOS 11 coming as a free update tomorrow

Tomorrow will see Apple's servers getting busy as the company releases iOS 11, the latest version of their operating system for iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch devices.

A huge update for iPads, iOS 11 brings enhanced multitasking, a new dock, a Files app as well as more fluid drag and drop functionality that makes Apple's tablet a better productivity and content creation tool.  Other features coming to iOS 11 include capabilities for Augmented Reality or AR, a redesigned App Store with curated information on suggested apps, better Apple Music integration and discovery, an improved Siri voice assistant. Hit jump for the list of devices that can accept iOS 11.

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Spotify and Waze integration now available on Android and iOS

It's a beautiful thing when two killer apps or services work well together. With navigation app Waze and eminent streaming service Spotify, the integration has been available on Android for some time. Starting today, however, iOS users can access Sportify directly from Waze and have the two apps work in lockstep without missing a beat. Here's how it works/

• Start navigating with Waze from within Spotify
• Access your Spotify playlists from within Waze and easily change tracks
• When your car is at a complete stop, easily switch between apps with one tap for an uninterrupted listening experience.

This feature makes Waze and Spotify even better since it makes them capable of interoperability while maintaining passenger safety.