Google is expanding its system services in October 2026 with several features for Android smartphones. These include updates in the Google Play Store, “Find My Device,” and Google Wallet. Additionally, there will be easier connectivity with accessories and enhanced protection features for calls.
On its help page, Google has published the release notes for the system services updates in October. TECHBOOK summarizes the key updates for users.
Updates for Android Devices
Android smartphones can now connect with an Android XR headset. What the connection practically enables depends on the specific headset. Google describes models that provide navigation, translations, or information from Gemini without constantly needing to take out the smartphone.
“Find My Device” is also being expanded. Tracker tags for items like keys can be automatically assigned to their owner. These tags can be locatednternet connection
NFC support makes accessing trackers easier. When the smartphone is held to a tag, its details and settings can be accessed. Lost trackers can also be identified this way.
Google Play Gets New Features
“Ask Google Play” can answer questions about apps based on real user reviews. Instead of going through numerous reviews individually, users receive a summary with direct quotes. Relevant videos can also appear with sources and timestamps.
The “Playback” feature is added for games. It can save the last 30 seconds of gameplay retroactively. This means an interesting game moment doesn’t need to be pre-recorded. The finished video is stored locally on the device.
Gemini also provides personalized game recommendations and explains the factors involved in the selection. For downloads, Google partially replaces the percentage display with the remaining time or data size.
During ongoing app downloads, Google Play now shows the estimated remaining time or the remaining download size. Google Play short videos can be shared
Also interesting: Google cuts large parts of the free version of Gemini
New Features in Wallet and Security
Google Wallet can now scan and add receipts. There is also an in-app message center. Improved merchant names in transaction notifications should make it clearer which store a payment is associated with.
For devices with Android 15 or an older version, Google is enhancing fraud protection for calls. The feature protects against apps that request accessibility permissions during a call.
Earthquake and disaster alerts are also changing. Google has revamped the display so that relevant alerts appear in an improved form on the smartphone.
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