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Gemini AI Is Changing How You Research, Plan, and Organize—Here’s What’s New

Scott Webster
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Gemini AI Is Changing How You Research, Plan, and Organize—Here’s What’s New

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 Go 6 ePaper Reader Review

Andrew Allen
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Boox Go 6 ePaper Reader Review

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 Enhances Gemini with Personalization for Smarter AI Assistance

Scott Webster
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Google Enhances Gemini with Personalization for Smarter AI Assistance

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 x ShiftCam Unveil CINEMA // Series: The Ultimate Mobile Filmmaking System

Scott Webster
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TUSK x ShiftCam Unveil CINEMA // Series: The Ultimate Mobile Filmmaking System

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.

Seven Cinema-Grade Lenses for Every Shot

  • 60mm Telephoto Cinema Lens – Delivers stunning subject isolation and background compression.
  • 75mm Long-Range Macro Cinema Lens – Captures detailed close-ups while maintaining depth.
  • 18mm 1.33x Anamorphic Cinema Lens – Creates cinematic widescreen visuals with natural flares.
  • 15mm 1.55x Anamorphic Cinema Lens – Enhances widescreen storytelling with a broader anamorphic effect.
  • 16mm Wide-Angle Cinema Lens – Ideal for landscapes, interiors, and vlogging.
  • 25mm 10x Macro Cinema Lens – Provides extreme close-up capabilities with sharp details.
  • 8mm 200° Fisheye Cinema Lens – Offers immersive, ultra-wide perspectives.

Eight Magnetic Filters for Creative Control

  • Circular Polarizer (CPL) – Reduces reflections and enhances color contrast.
  • Black Mist 1/2 Filter – Softens highlights for a dreamy cinematic effect.
  • Variable ND (VND) 1-5 Stops – Allows controlled light reduction for exposure precision.
  • 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.

8849 Introduces the TANK 3 Pro: A Rugged 5G Smartphone with a Massive 23,800mAh Battery and Built-in Projector

Scott Webster
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8849 Introduces the TANK 3 Pro: A Rugged 5G Smartphone with a Massive 23,800mAh Battery and Built-in Projector

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 is now available through Amazon, 8849’s official website, and UNIHERTZ’s online store for $599.99/£470. Amazon UK availability is expected next month.

A Smartphone That Projects More Than Power

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.

Availability and Pricing

The 8849 TANK 3 Pro is now available through Amazon, 8849’s official website, and UNIHERTZ’s online store for $599.99/£470. Amazon UK availability is expected next month.

Feature Highlights

  • 100-Lumen DLP Projector (with adjustable focus)
  • Dimensity 8200 Octa-Core CPU
  • 23,800mAh Battery with 120W Fast Charging
  • 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.

Gemini in Android Studio Now Supports Multimodal Image Input

Scott Webster
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Gemini in Android Studio Now Supports Multimodal Image Input

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 Expands PC Gaming with Native Titles, New Developer Tools, and an Earnback Program

Scott Webster
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Google Expands PC Gaming with Native Titles, New Developer Tools, and an Earnback Program

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.

Google Play Games Expands to More Devices, Brings PC and Mobile Gaming Closer Together

Scott Webster
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Google Play Games Expands to More Devices, Brings PC and Mobile Gaming Closer Together

Google Play Games is leveling up its platform, bringing more titles, better device compatibility, and a smoother gameplay experience to gamers everywhere. Announced at this year’s Game Developers Conference (GDC), the updates include a growing PC game library, cross-platform gameplay enhancements, and new ways to earn rewards.

More Games, More Devices

Google Play Games on PC is expanding its catalog with popular new titles. Fans of strategy, RPGs, and action-packed adventures can look forward to playing “Game of Thrones: Kingsroad,” “Sonic Rumble,” and “ODIN: VALHALLA RISING” on their PCs this year. These additions build on an already strong lineup that includes “Genshin Impact” and “Journey of Monarch.”

The updates aren’t just about new games, Google Play Games is now supported on a wider range of devices, including AMD-powered laptops and desktops. This means more gamers can jump in without needing high-end hardware.

For those who prefer gaming on the go, Google Play is also making select PC games available on Android devices. Titles like “DREDGE” and “TABS Mobile” are launching this month, with “Disco Elysium” set to arrive later this year. These games have been optimized for mobile, ensuring a smooth experience across screens.

Earn More Rewards with Google Play Points

Google Play is making it easier for players to earn and redeem rewards on PC. Play Points can now be tracked more easily across both mobile and desktop, and for a limited time, players can take advantage of up to 10X Play Points boosters on PC. Whether it’s discounts, in-game items, or exclusive perks, Google Play Points now offer even more value for dedicated gamers.

Customization and Performance Upgrades

Beyond new games and rewards, Google Play Games is rolling out customizable controls to help players fine-tune their experience. A new game sidebar allows for quick in-game adjustments, while multi-account and multi-instancing support lets players switch between accounts or run multiple game instances simultaneously.

Google is also investing in performance upgrades with Vulkan API and Android Dynamic Performance Framework (ADPF). These technologies help developers enhance visuals, optimize frame rates, and improve overall gameplay smoothness. Diablo Immortal, for example, now benefits from ray tracing technology, delivering sharper graphics and more immersive environments.

More to Come

Google Play Games on PC is moving toward general availability later this year, promising even more cross-platform features and game additions. Whether you’re a PC gamer looking to explore Android titles or a mobile player wanting to dive into PC gaming, Google Play is making it easier than ever to play your way.

For more details on Google Play’s latest announcements, visit g.co/gamedevsummit.

MeCool KM9 Pro Max Streamer Review

Andrew Allen
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MeCool KM9 Pro Max Streamer Review

Streaming boxes are now commonplace in people’s homes, transforming the way we consume media and entertainment. You have great options from popular brands like Roku, Amazon, Google, and Apple, each offering a unique set of features and channels to suit different viewing preferences.

MeCool may not immediately be a household name, but you could argue its streaming boxes are worth consideration, especially for those seeking something different. New options like the MeCool KM9 Pro Max come packed with many of the bells and whistles you need from a company you may not have heard of, including 4K streaming capabilities, an intuitive user interface, and support for a wide range of streaming services.

Additionally, the MeCool devices often provide excellent value for money, making them a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers looking to elevate their viewing experience without compromising on quality or features.

The MeCool KM9 Pro Max stands out with its robust port selection, smooth Google TV experience, and certified 4K streaming for Netflix and Disney+. At just $80, it delivers impressive performance and versatility, making it a smart choice for those seeking a feature-rich yet affordable streaming solution.

Design

The MeCool KM9 Pro Max is a small rectangular box similar to most streaming devices. Internally, it’s running on a powerhouse of an ARM chipset, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of onboard flash storage. This makes it a surprisingly capable Google TV option to rival the likes from Google directly.

Where the hardware really sets itself apart on the MeCool KM9 Pro Max is the port selection. On the back and side of the unit, you’ll find an input/output array that just doesn’t have much competition for the space. The left side has two full USB-A ports and the rear houses an optical audio jack, 3.5mm audio jack, full-sized HDMI, and Ethernet port.

Most streamers these days have an HDMI port and maybe one other option like Ethernet. Even optical audio out seems to be a dying addition recently. To have the array of ports that you see here is impressive. Rounding out the box itself, the KM9 Pro Max has a barrel power adapter and front LED status lights.

Software

As mentioned earlier, the MeCool KM9 Pro Max runs Google TV, which sits atop Android 12. This gives you full Google Play access for pretty much any streaming service you’ll need. It’s also a huge plus to see that it’s a certified device for 4K Netflix and Disney+. Both companies seem to have loosened the grip on certifications, but it’s still not uncommon to see devices not have them on board.

Otherwise, if you’ve ever used another Android TV box, or even Amazon’s Fire TVs, the interface and experience will be familiar. You have a home screen full of installed apps pumping out recommended and available viewing options. I personally find it busier than alternatives like Roku and Apple TV, but it’s sufficient to get the streaming platforms you pay for on a big screen.

Performance and Remote

I had zero issues during my testing period. The MeCool KM9 Pro Max performed very well with no hang-ups. The interface is smooth and transitions were snappy. Even the occasional game worked as expected. I’m sure you can make it stutter with some heavier gaming streaming, but for most users this is more than enough.

The same is true for the included remote. MeCool’s offering follows the Google TV reference layout almost verbatim, and that’s a good thing. The remote is intuitive, and the buttons are responsive. You even have a power button and volume control mappings available for most TVs using universal remote protocols. There are dedicated buttons at the bottom of the unit with shortcuts to YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+.

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.

MeCool isn’t a household name, but this streamer is a contender at just $80. With the latest Google software and a plethora of port selections, it’s a niche option that will suit the needs of many consumers. Finding a solution for a full sound system and Google TV can be difficult, but the KM9 Pro Max fits the bill.

Hit our link below to find out more details or purchase yours today directly from MeCool’s website

MeCool KM9 Pro streamer $80

MediaTek Launches Genio 720 and 520: Smarter, Faster, and More Efficient AI for IoT

Scott Webster
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0
MediaTek Launches Genio 720 and 520: Smarter, Faster, and More Efficient AI for IoT

MediaTek has unveiled two new chips, Genio 720 and Genio 520, designed to make smart home devices, retail tech, and industrial IoT gadgets more powerful and efficient. These chips bring on-device generative AI, improved performance, and better power efficiency—perfect for everything from interactive retail displays to smart security systems.

Smarter AI, Faster Performance

Both chips come with MediaTek’s 8th-generation AI processor, handling up to 10 trillion operations per second (TOPS). That means they can process AI tasks faster and more efficiently—like improving voice assistants, enabling real-time image recognition, and even running AI-powered chatbots and automation directly on a device instead of in the cloud.

With support for up to 16GB of memory, these chips can handle large AI models like Llama, Gemini, and DeepSeek, making them useful for advanced AI applications that need quick responses without draining power.

Power-Efficient Design for Always-On Devices

Built using a 6nm process, the Genio 720 and 520 use an octa-core CPU with a mix of high-performance Cortex-A78 and power-efficient Cortex-A55 cores. This design keeps devices running smoothly and efficiently, making them ideal for battery-powered and fanless devices like smart cameras, kiosks, and industrial automation systems.

Designed for Displays, Cameras, and Connectivity

These new chips are built for multimedia and connected devices, supporting:

  • 4K video and multi-screen support for high-end retail and commercial displays
  • Multiple camera connections, handling up to six Full HD cameras or 32MP sensors
  • Wi-Fi 6/6E built-in, with support for Wi-Fi 7 and 5G RedCap via external modules
  • Operating system compatibility with Android, Linux, and Ubuntu

Faster Development with OSM Support

To help manufacturers bring new devices to market quickly, MediaTek is offering OSM (Open Standard Module) reference designs, which simplify hardware development and improve reliability. OSM-based solutions powered by Genio 720 and 520 are expected to launch in the second half of 2025.

When Can We Expect These Chips?

MediaTek will start sending out samples of Genio 720 and 520 in Q2 2025. For more details, visit MediaTek’s website.

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