TRIBIT has officially introduced its latest audio powerhouse, the StormBox Lava Speaker, to the US market. This feature-packed speaker delivers high-performance sound, rugged durability, and seamless portability, ensuring music lovers can take their favorite tunes anywhere without compromise.
With an 80W output, ultra-deep 43Hz bass, and a massive 24-hour battery life, the StormBox Lava Speaker is built for everything from backyard parties to outdoor adventures. The ability to sync 160+ speakers for a true party-mode experience makes it a standout in the wireless speaker space.
Powerful Sound with Deep Bass
The StormBox Lava is equipped with dual 30W neodymium woofers and dual 10W silk dome tweeters, offering a balanced sound signature with rich mid-tones, crisp highs, and booming lows. TRIBIT’s exclusive XBass technology enhances low frequencies down to 43Hz, delivering deep, resonant bass that brings energy to every track.
A Speaker That Goes Anywhere
Designed for portability and durability, the StormBox Lava comes with two interchangeable straps—a short handle for easy carrying and a shoulder strap for added convenience. IPX7 waterproofing ensures it can withstand rain, splashes, and poolside fun without worry.
Party Mode & Built-in Power Bank
The Party Mode feature lets users sync over 160 speakers for a massive, immersive sound experience—ideal for large gatherings or outdoor festivals. The reverse charging function transforms the speaker into a power bank, keeping devices charged on the go.
24-Hour Battery & Seamless Connectivity
Powered by six high-capacity batteries and TRIBIT’s RunStretch technology, the StormBox Lava keeps the music going for a full day on a single charge. With Bluetooth 5.4 and a Ti Amplifier Chip, it offers a stable, fast connection to smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
For those seeking powerful audio, rugged durability, and long-lasting performance, the StormBox Lava Speaker delivers premium sound without the premium price tag.
H2O Audio’s RIPT Lite Headphones, one of the brand’s newest models, cater to fitness enthusiasts and those with active lifestyles, ensuring a comfortable audio experience during workouts and daily activities. Weighing in at only 3.7 grams, these ultra-lightweight headphones feature an IPX5 sweat-resistant design, offering durability without sacrificing comfort.
The sound quality is impressive, thanks to RIPT (Real Isolation Performance Tech) and 6 microphones that deliver advanced noise cancellation for clear audio. Custom-developed 13mm composite drivers enhance audio performance, providing deep bass and immersion.
With ultra-lightweight comfort, sweat-resistant durability, and immersive sound powered by custom-developed drivers, the H2O Audio RIPT Lite Headphones are built to keep up with every workout while offering five hours of playtime and seamless Bluetooth connectivity for music and calls on the move.
Battery life stands out, offering five hours of playtime on a single charge, with an additional 30 hours available through the portable charging case. Bluetooth v5.4 connectivity ensures seamless pairing for phone calls and music, paired with intuitive touch controls for easy management.
With a price of $99.99, the RIPT Lite Headphones appeal to anyone seeking high-quality sound and performance while engaging in physical activities.
Specs & Features
Weight: Ultra-lightweight at 3.7 grams
Water Resistance: IPX5 sweat-resistant (not for swimming)
Noise Cancellation: RIPT (Real Isolation Performance Tech) with 6 microphones
Audio Drivers: Custom-developed 13mm composite drivers for deep bass
Battery Life: Up to 5 hours playtime per charge; additional 30 hours via charging case
Bluetooth: v5.4 for wireless connectivity
Controls: Intuitive touch controls for calls, music, and volume
Sweatproof: 100% sweatproof, ideal for workouts and sports
Active Noise Cancellation: Provides 30dB noise isolation
Price: $99.99
What Are the Key Features of the H2O Audio RIPT Lite Headphones?
The H2O Audio RIPT Lite Headphones are crafted for individuals who prioritize functionality and comfort, especially during workouts or daily activities. Weighing only 3.7 grams, these ultra-lightweight headphones are designed to be barely noticeable during use, making them an excellent option for anyone engaged in an active lifestyle.
How Do They Handle Sweat and Water?
With an IPX5 rating, these headphones are resistant to sweat, making them suitable for rigorous workouts. While they are not designed for swimming, the sweatproof feature allows users to maintain focus during exercise sessions without worrying about damage from perspiration.
What About Audio Quality?
The RIPT Lite utilizes advanced noise cancellation technology powered by six microphones, enhancing the listening experience by isolating sound. Users can expect clear audio quality from custom-developed 13mm composite drivers, delivering deep bass and immersive sound. This feature is particularly valuable for those who enjoy listening to music or podcasts while on the move.
How Long Does the Battery Last?
The earphones provide an impressive five hours of playtime per charge, which can be extended to 30 hours with the included portable charging case. This long-lasting battery life is ideal for users who require extended use without frequent charging interruptions.
Are They Easy to Use?
Equipped with Bluetooth v5.4, these headphones offer strong wireless connectivity for seamless pairing with devices. Intuitive touch controls allow users to manage calls, music playback, and volume without fumbling with their devices, enhancing the overall user experience.
Who Are the Ideal Users?
These headphones cater to fitness enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone seeking high-quality audio on the go. Their ergonomic design ensures comfort, while the active noise cancellation feature helps users maintain concentration during various activities. The stylish aesthetic and practical features make them suitable for everyday wear as well.
What Is the Price Point?
Retailing at $99.99, the RIPT Lite Headphones are positioned as a reliable option for those who value both performance and comfort in a compact design. With their blend of durability, sound quality, and user-centric features, these headphones may be a solid investment for active users looking for dependable audio solutions.
After a successful Kickstarter campaign last year, HOZO Design has officially launched the M-Cube 02 Anti-Gravity Laser Level for retail purchase. Originally introduced to backers in October, the next-generation levelling and measurement tool is now available directly from HOZO Design’s website, with Amazon availability in the US and UK coming soon.
Hands-Free Precision with Vacuum Adhesion
One of the most impressive features of the M-Cube 02 is its advanced vacuum adhesion system, which allows the device to attach securely to walls and surfaces with absolute confidence. This innovation removes the need for tripods or manual support, revolutionizing the way professionals and DIYers achieve precision without any tedious setup. With its 360° rotation and integrated angle sensor, users can expect exceptional accuracy in positioning, complete with real-time feedback.
Laser Levelling Meets Advanced Measurement
The M-Cube 02 goes beyond traditional laser levels by combining horizontal and vertical levelling with distance measurement. This integration allows for fast and efficient alignment, whether installing fixtures, mapping layouts, or working on detailed construction projects.
Key capabilities include:
Midpoint Detection – Calculates the center between two points for precise object placement.
MEAZOR App Syncing – Sends instant measurements to a smartphone for added convenience.
Modular Compatibility – Works with previous M-Cube modules, including the 00G green laser edition, for expanded functionality.
Built for Real-World Use
Designed for both indoor and outdoor applications, the M-Cube 02 is built to withstand job site conditions while maintaining precision. Protective covers are available to safeguard the device and the broader M-Cube ecosystem, ensuring long-term durability.
Pricing and Availability
Now available for direct purchase from the HOZO Design Website, with Amazon listings in the US and UK coming soon:
M-Cube 02 Anti-Gravity Laser Level – $149/£149
M-Cube 02 Laser Level Pro with Green Laser Measure – $259/£259
M-Cube 02 Laser Level Premium Combo – $309/£246
Following its Kickstarter debut, the M-Cube 02 is now accessible to a wider audience, bringing next-level precision to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Google is rolling out a suite of upgrades to its Gemini AI, bringing enhanced research capabilities, a longer context window, and deeper integration with Google services. These updates aim to make Gemini a more powerful and personalized assistant, whether users are tackling complex research projects or looking for smarter daily assistance.
Smarter Reasoning with 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental
The new 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model enhances Gemini’s ability to break down complex queries into structured steps, improving both reasoning and response quality. This update brings file upload support, faster processing, and a 1M token context window for Gemini Advanced users. The extended context allows Gemini to analyze larger datasets and generate more insightful responses for intricate problem-solving tasks.
Deep Research Expands to More Users
Google’s Deep Research tool, first introduced in December, has been upgraded with the new 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model. This AI-powered research assistant searches, analyzes, and synthesizes information from across the web, delivering detailed multi-page reports in minutes.
One key improvement is real-time transparency—users can now see Gemini’s thought process while it browses the web, offering a clearer look at how it approaches research tasks. Starting today, Deep Research is rolling out globally in 45+ languages. Standard Gemini users can access it a few times per month at no cost, while Gemini Advanced users get expanded access for more in-depth projects.
Personalized Responses with Search Integration
Google is introducing personalization to Gemini, making interactions more tailored to individual users. By connecting with Google services—starting with Search—Gemini can refine its recommendations based on previous searches.
For instance, users asking for restaurant suggestions will receive options influenced by their recent food-related searches. Similarly, those seeking travel advice will see responses shaped by past destination queries. This feature, labeled Personalization (experimental), can be enabled or disabled at any time, giving users full control over their search history and data preferences.
Deeper Integration with Google Apps
Gemini is expanding its connected app support to include Calendar, Notes, Tasks, and Photos, with English availability starting today. This update allows Gemini to handle more complex, multi-step requests that involve multiple services.
For example, a user can ask: “Find an easy cookie recipe on YouTube, add the ingredients to my shopping list, and locate grocery stores still open nearby.”
Additionally, Google Photos integration is coming soon, enabling Gemini to assist with image-based requests. Users will be able to generate travel itineraries from past vacation photos or quickly retrieve important information, such as the expiration date on a driver’s license.
Gems Now Available for Everyone
Google is making Gems, its AI-powered custom assistants, available at no cost to all Gemini users. Gems allow users to create specialized AI helpers for different tasks, such as language translation, meal planning, or math tutoring.
Users can either start with pre-made Gems or create their own by setting instructions and uploading relevant files. Once configured, these AI assistants can be accessed instantly within the Gemini app.
Try the New Gemini Features Now
Google continues to refine and expand Gemini’s capabilities, making AI-driven assistance more powerful and accessible. The latest updates are rolling out now, with more features on the way. Users can start exploring these enhancements at gemini.google.com.
Boox is an emerging name in the e-reader market and seems to be having a fantastic run. From my perspective, it has established itself as a formidable contender to the likes of the Amazon Kindle or Kobo readers. Its products offer innovative features and a user-friendly experience that appeal to a wide range of readers.
After taking the Go 10 and 7 for a round of testing this past year, both of which impressed me with their performance and design, I was excited to take the new Boox Go 6 for a spin, eager to see how it would stack up against its predecessors and rivals alike.
The Boox Go 6 offers a compact, lightweight design with the versatility of full Android, allowing readers to access their favorite e-book platforms with ease. With expandable storage, Bluetooth support, and long battery life, it’s a flexible and affordable choice for those who want more from their e-reader.
Design
The smallest of the Boox Go series comes in at a 6-inch diagonal e-ink display. Surprised by that spec? Ok, enough jokes, but this screen is a touchscreen unit built on the Carta display tech. This allows for decent text rendering with minimal refresh lag. Its max resolution is 1448×1072 pixels with a density of 300 pixels per inch.
The surrounding has minimal black bezels with a bit of a chin at the bottom. The entire casing is covered in a soft-touch coating that makes for a good grip and is comfy to hold. At the top right lives a power button that’s slightly recessed but easily pressed. The bottom of the unit houses the USB-C power port and a microSD slot that can be ejected with a SIM tray tool.
Internally, you have an octa-core CPU, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage. To power the unit away from the charger is a 1500mAh battery bank. Overall, it’s not a powerhouse, but these specks make it more than competitive in the small e-reader segment.
Software
This isn’t usually a note worth its own paragraph in the e-reader market, but the Boox Go 6 utilizes full Android 12 as its operating system. True to the lineage of the rest of the company’s devices, the Go 6 has full Google Play access by simply logging into your Google account. The Boox skin adds some reading-centric features as well as their optional cloud storage and default Neoreader e-reader app that’s surprisingly good.
The extended app marketplace allows you to download multiple options to read your book libraries. Have books you purchased from Amazon? Download the Kindle app. Have a history of Barnes and Noble e-books? Get that too. Need to access your local library with Libby or Hoopla? Just a download away.
The same is true for alternative reading. With full Play Store you can download your favorite RSS reader, your favorite news app, or take in your local newspapers’ website. You can even download social media apps to supercharge your experience with live events as they happen.
Daily Usage
The general size of the Boox Go 6 is relatively close to that of a passport or a smaller paperback. It makes the unit easy to hold in one hand and casually catch up on your favorite new book. I found the reading to be easy on the eyes with the soft backlight of the Boox Go 6. I also found the refresh rate to be more than capable and rarely saw ghost text from the previous pages that used to plague e-readers in this price range.
Having expandable storage via the microSD slot has been a huge positive as well. I have a large collection of independent e-books and audiobooks (did I mention it has Bluetooth?) from Downpour and IT classes from years past in addition to comic books. Being able to sideload these large archives has been great without having the anxiety of running out of onboard storage.
Speaking of comics… you can read them on the Go 6, but with some caveats. First, the screen isn’t in color. It’s just not great to read the action-packed and fantastic works of amazing artists without it. Second, the 6-inch screen is perfect for text reading, and I found it to be one of the most appealing for books, but it really cramped comics built for the 7×10-inch medium.
General performance has been… OK. There are times the Go 6 seems underpowered and stutters to keep up. Specifically, using the swipe gestures to return home and navigate panels lags at times. At the original price of over $300, this would be an issue, but Boox recently cut the cost to just $150, making this much less of a glaring issue for me.
Final Thoughts
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time testing the Boox Go 6. The compact, lightweight design makes it perfect to have on the nightstand, in my backpack, or simply carry in my hand. The battery life is good for weeks in standby, and the screen is easy to read. Add in the outstanding ability to install any Android app, and you have one of the best pocket e-readers you can find on the market.
Not to mention that the price isn’t going to break the bank either. At just $150, the Boox Go 6 is well worth the investment if you find this form factor appealing. It’s currently even giving you the magnetic case for free!
Google is expanding the capabilities of its AI assistant, Gemini, with a new personalization feature designed to deliver more tailored responses by integrating with Google apps and services. This experimental update allows Gemini to reference a user’s Search history to provide more relevant and insightful answers, making interactions feel more intuitive and efficient.
Smarter AI, Tailored to You
With the rollout of Gemini with personalization, Google is shifting AI assistance from generalized responses to a more adaptive experience. The feature, powered by the Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking model, allows the assistant to analyze past searches—if granted permission—to refine its recommendations. Whether users are looking for travel suggestions, brainstorming creative ideas, or researching new hobbies, Gemini can now provide answers that align more closely with their individual interests.
Google has confirmed that the personalization feature will expand in the coming months to include additional Google services such as Photos and YouTube, further enhancing the assistant’s ability to understand user preferences and deliver responses that go beyond surface-level suggestions.
How Personalization Works
Users can activate Gemini’s personalization through the Gemini Apps settings, where an option for “Personalization (experimental)” appears in the model selection menu. Once enabled, Gemini will analyze prompts and determine whether referencing Search history would enhance the response.
Privacy remains a key focus, with Google emphasizing that users retain full control over their data. Gemini will only access Search history when the personalization feature is enabled, and clear notices will be displayed whenever it’s in use. Users can easily disconnect the AI from their Search history at any time.
A More Natural AI Experience
Google has positioned Gemini’s personalization as part of a broader effort to make AI more contextually aware and useful. Beyond Search history integration, users can already provide Gemini with preferences, such as dietary restrictions or important personal details, to refine responses. Gemini Advanced subscribers also have the added ability to reference past chats for continuity in conversations—a feature Google plans to extend to all users in the near future.
Gemini with personalization is available now for Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers on the web and is rolling out gradually on mobile in over 40 languages worldwide. Google’s latest update marks another step toward making AI assistance feel more intuitive, with responses that are not just accurate but genuinely relevant to each user.
TUSK, in collaboration with ShiftCam, is introducing the CINEMA // Series, a groundbreaking mobile lens and filter system designed to bring commercial-grade cinematography to the iPhone. This new lineup, launching on Kickstarter, offers an advanced toolkit for filmmakers, content creators, and industry professionals looking to achieve Hollywood-level visuals without the bulk of traditional cinema gear.
Who Should Care About This Announcement?
The CINEMA // Series is a game-changer for filmmakers, vloggers, content creators, and industry professionals who want high-quality footage without the weight and complexity of traditional cinema gear. Whether you’re shooting a music video, a documentary, or professional social media content, this system provides the tools needed to capture visually stunning, cinematic-quality footage on a smartphone.
For independent filmmakers, this means professional-grade optics without the high costs of DSLR and cinema cameras. Vloggers and travel filmmakers will appreciate its portability, allowing for dynamic and high-quality storytelling on the go. Even industry professionals looking for a lightweight secondary camera setup will find the CINEMA // Series a valuable addition to their workflow.
Professional-Grade Optics in a Portable Package
The CINEMA // Series is the most advanced mobile filmmaking system to date, featuring seven professional lenses and eight magnetic cinematic filters. It’s engineered to take full advantage of Netflix-approved devices like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro Max, demonstrating that smartphones can be powerful tools for professional content creation.
Key Features & Innovations
Fluorite Crystal Optics – Each lens is crafted with up to seven fluorite crystal elements for exceptional clarity and minimal distortion.
Multi-Layer Coatings – Lenses feature up to 98 protective coatings, including anti-reflective, anti-scratch, hydrophobic, and UV/IR protection.
Ultra-Low Chromatic Aberration – Ensures accurate color reproduction without unwanted fringing.
Recycled Aluminum Build – Aerospace-grade aluminum housing for durability and lightweight portability.
Quick-Mount System – Secure twist-and-lock mechanism for seamless lens changes.
Magnetic Filter Adapter – Allows quick attachment of 72mm filters, supporting multiple lens types.
ND8, ND64, ND128, ND512 Filters – Adjust light intake for different shooting conditions.
Variable ND (VND) 6-9 Stops – Ideal for extreme brightness and long-exposure photography.
Designed for Professional & Indie Filmmakers
The CINEMA // Series caters to various content creators, from professional filmmakers to vloggers and social media influencers. Whether shooting music videos, documentaries, commercial projects, or live streaming, this mobile setup offers unparalleled flexibility and creative potential.
Why CINEMA // Series?
Affordable Alternative to Cinema Gear – Achieve DSLR-quality results without the high costs.
Versatile & Compact – Seven lenses and eight filters provide limitless creative options.
No Heavy Gear Required – Film anywhere with ease, eliminating the need for tripods and rigs.
Sustainable Design – Built with premium recycled materials for durability and eco-conscious filmmaking.
Availability & Pricing
The CINEMA // Series will launch exclusively on Kickstarter, with the full package priced at $1,949. To stay updated on special offers and early bird deals, visit the official campaign page.
About TUSK x ShiftCam
TUSK is an award-winning filmmaking collective known for pushing the boundaries of cinematography. Partnering with ShiftCam, a leader in mobile photography and videography accessories, the two companies have created a system that bridges the gap between mobile filmmaking and professional cinema production.
Rugged smartphone maker 8849, operating under the UNIHERTZ umbrella, has launched the TANK 3 Pro, a 5G-ready powerhouse built for those who need performance and endurance in the toughest conditions. The 23,800mAh battery, 100-lumen DLP projector, Dimensity 8200 processor, and 200MP AI camera put this device in a category of its own.
The TANK 3 Pro includes a built-in DLP projector, capable of 100 lumens brightness with an adjustable focus. Whether it’s for outdoor movie nights, impromptu presentations, or turning any flat surface into a screen, this feature expands what a smartphone can do.
A 6.79-inch FHD display with a 120Hz refresh rate keeps visuals smooth, whether scrolling, gaming, or watching videos.
Battery That Refuses to Quit
With 23,800mAh of battery capacity, this phone runs for days on a single charge. 120W fast charging gets it back to 90% in just 90 minutes, and reverse charging lets it act as a power bank for other devices.
Performance Without Compromise
The Dimensity 8200 octa-core processor powers fast multitasking and seamless 5G connectivity, making downloads, gaming, and streaming feel effortless. With 512GB of storage (expandable up to 2TB) and 36GB RAM (18GB + 18GB virtual RAM), the TANK 3 Pro handles heavy workloads with ease.
Built for Harsh Environments
Engineered for durability, the IP68-rated body is resistant to water, dust, and impact. A built-in cooling fan prevents overheating, keeping performance steady even under heavy loads.
For those venturing off the beaten path, L1+L5 dual-band GPS provides precise navigation. The multi-function camping light with adjustable brightness and an emergency warning mode adds extra utility in outdoor settings.
Camera Power for Any Situation
A 200MP AI main camera delivers high-resolution shots with rich detail. The 64MP night vision camera makes low-light photography a breeze, while wide-angle and telephoto lenses offer flexibility for different shooting scenarios.
Up to 36GB RAM (18GB + 18GB Extended) & 512GB Storage (Expandable to 2TB)
6.79-inch FHD Display with 120Hz Refresh Rate
200MP AI Main Camera + 64MP Super Night Vision
IP68 Water, Dust & Shock Resistance
Built-in Cooling Fan for Heat Dissipation
Camping Light with Emergency Warning Mode
About 8849
8849, named after the 8,848-meter height of Mount Everest, builds smartphones that thrive in extreme conditions. The brand focuses on rugged durability and cutting-edge technology, making its devices a go-to choice for outdoor professionals, adventurers, and users who demand reliability.
Google is expanding the capabilities of Gemini in Android Studio with multimodal image input, allowing developers to attach images directly to their AI-assisted prompts. This new feature, now available in Android Studio Narwhal (Canary release), enables developers to streamline UI prototyping, enhance debugging, and improve documentation workflows by integrating visual data into Gemini’s responses.
A New Dimension for AI-Powered Development
Gemini’s multimodal capabilities were first introduced at Google I/O 2024, showcasing its ability to interpret wireframes and convert them into Jetpack Compose code. Now, with image attachment support, developers can upload JPEG or PNG files and receive AI-generated insights based on visual context.
An “Attach Image File” icon is now available in the Gemini chat window, allowing users to provide screenshots, diagrams, or mockups for AI-powered interpretation. For best results, Google recommends using images with strong color contrast.
How Multimodal Image Input Enhances Development
Developers can leverage this feature for a variety of tasks, including:
Rapid UI Prototyping – Convert wireframes or high-fidelity mockups into Jetpack Compose code.
Diagram Documentation – Upload complex architecture diagrams and let Gemini generate explanations.
UI Debugging – Provide screenshots of UI issues and receive AI-suggested solutions.
For instance, developers can upload a sketched UI layout and prompt Gemini with: “Generate Jetpack Compose code that replicates this design, using Material3 and proper imports.”
Similarly, debugging workflows are improved by uploading screenshots of UI glitches, such as stretched buttons on larger screens. Gemini can analyze the issue and suggest responsive layout adjustments using window size classes.
Available Now in Android Studio Narwhal
The new multimodal image attachment feature is now available in the latest Android Studio Narwhal (Canary) release. Google emphasizes privacy and responsible AI use, ensuring that source code is not sent to external servers without user consent.
Developers can download Android Studio Narwhal today to explore these new capabilities. Google encourages feedback to refine the experience further and improve future releases. For the latest updates, follow the official Android development channels on X, Medium, and YouTube.
Google Play is stepping up its commitment to PC gaming, rolling out a suite of updates aimed at developers and players alike. Announced at this year’s Game Developers Conference (GDC), these changes bring native PC game support, a new earnback program, and gameplay upgrades to the Google Play Games on PC platform.
Native PC Games Join Google Play
Google Play Games on PC was originally designed to bring mobile games to desktop users. Now, it’s opening the doors to native PC titles, giving developers a way to reach a global audience of over 2 billion players through a single platform.
Some early success stories on the platform include Wuthering Waves, Remember of Majesty, Genshin Impact, and Journey of Monarch. With input from early-access developers, Google is expanding its support with new tools for game development, distribution, and monetization:
Play Games PC SDK – A new development kit built for native PC games, offering streamlined in-app purchase integration and advanced security protections.
Simplified Play Console Management – A centralized hub for handling mobile and PC game builds, store listings, and release settings.
Earnback Program – Developers bringing PC games to Google Play can earn up to 15% additional revenue through a new incentive program.
These tools give PC developers access to Google Play’s extensive ecosystem while making it easier for mobile-first studios to branch into desktop gaming.
More Mobile Games Now Playable on PC
Google Play is automatically making mobile games available on PC unless developers choose to opt out. To help players gauge performance, games will now include playability badges:
“Optimized” – Meets all Google Play Games quality standards for PC.
“Playable” – Meets minimum requirements but may not be fully optimized.
With custom control mappings, many mobile games will be ready to play on PC with minimal developer adjustments.
Google Play Games Expands to More Devices
The Google Play Games platform is expanding to AMD-based laptops and desktops, with PC manufacturers integrating Google Play Games directly into the start menu of upcoming devices.
Other new features for players include:
Customizable controls – Adjust key mappings for better comfort and performance.
A new game sidebar – Quick access to settings and controls.
Multi-account and multi-instance support – A response to popular demand from players who juggle multiple game profiles.
More Rewards and Advertising Tools for Developers
The Google Play Points program is being expanded on PC, making it easier for users to track and redeem points. Limited-time promotions will allow players to earn up to 10x points on Google Play Games, encouraging deeper engagement with in-game purchases.
Google is also testing new user acquisition tools powered by Google Ads, helping developers run targeted campaigns for both mobile-emulated and native PC titles within Google Play Games.
Google Play at GDC
Developers attending GDC at the Moscone Center West Hall can get a closer look at these updates, explore upcoming games, and connect with the Google Play team.
