This article explores three key updates from Google:
- Potential Pop-Up Ads in Google Maps: Google Maps might be testing a new feature that displays pop-up ads during navigation, suggesting nearby businesses as quick detours.
- Revamped Activity Tab in Google Home: The Google Home app on Android receives a redesigned Activity tab with easier access to filters through dedicated sections.
- Extended Linux Kernel Support for Android: Google will maintain its Linux kernel branches for four years, ensuring continued security updates for Android devices.
1. Quick Detour Ads in Google Maps (Test)
Reports suggest Google Maps might be testing a new ad format. Pop-up ads could appear during navigation, recommending nearby sponsored locations as “quick detours.” While users can add a stop, the ad doesn’t automatically activate and is clearly marked as sponsored. This feature, similar to existing functionality in Waze, is currently under testing and might not be widely available yet.
2. Google Home Activity Tab Redesign
The Google Home app on Android received an update that revamps the Activity tab. Previously, accessing filters required a separate screen. Now, the redesigned tab features three filter chips at the top for easier sorting of device events – Devices, Events, and Date. The update includes a visual refresh with cleaner card designs and a more streamlined layout.
3. Extended Linux Kernel Support for Android Security
The Linux kernel is a core component of Android, and its long-term support (LTS) releases are crucial for device security. While the upstream support for LTS kernels was reduced to two years, Google announced it would maintain its forks for four years. This extended support ensures Android devices continue receiving critical security patches for a longer period.
