⚡ Welcome to The Weekly Authority, the Android Authority newsletter that breaks down the top Android and tech news from the week. The 249th edition here with a breakdown of the tumultuous week for Reddit, more exclusive details on the Google Pixel 8, big updates for existing Pixel phones and the Pixel Watch, and a church service created and conducted entirely by ChatGPT…

🗺️ This week, I’ve been living vicariously through my newfound content obsession — adventure YouTubers. I stumbled upon a group currently traveling through Namibia and Botswana in some hefty off-road vehicles, and the vistas they traverse are truly incredible. Although my hometown is among the most beautiful on Earth, there’s something magical about being isolated in the arid interior. Maybe one day…

Popular news this week

Samsung:

• Talk about a flexible launch window: Here’s when the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE could make its debut.
• Galaxy Watch will now tell you your ticker’s off with heart rate notifications. Irregular heart rhythm notifications are rolling out soon.
• Also, here’s everything you need to know about the Galaxy Watch 6, including the upgraded chipset.
• For older watch owners, Samsung just updated the 2018 Galaxy Watch with sensor improvements.
• The Galaxy Z Fold 5’s most significant spec change could be what lies beneath its fold. It’s now also confirmed to fold flat, thanks to a new press render.
• Also, here’s everything you need to know about the Galaxy Z Fold 5 before it launches.
• First Galaxy Z Flip 5 press render leaks, showing that huge small screen.
• You can grab the Galaxy S23’s huge, camera-focused June update now.

Google:

• Another huge Google Pixel 8 exclusive: These are the leaked camera specs you can expect on the next flagship.
• Also, this week saw the June 2023 Pixel feature drop for Google’s smartphone series and Wear OS watches. Even Fitbit devices received some love!
• Poll: Let us know if you’ve received the latest Pixel features drop here.
• Google Home’s script editor is out now and will level up your smart home.
• RCS is about to get better on AT&T, thanks to Google Jibe.
• Maps, Search, Lens, and Shopping are all getting AI feature buffs thanks to a new update.
• Life is about to get more difficult for custom ROM fans as Google kills off two open-source apps in AOSP.
• This isn’t the case for Pixel Watch users, though. Google’s bringing one of the best Pixel features to the wearable.
• Just got your Pixel 7a? Here’s how to get the most out of your new phone with these tips and tricks.
• Thanks to a class-action settlement, Google probably owes you money, and here’s how to get it.
• Google warns Googlers to be wary about using Google Bard.
• Google just killed Google Domains: Just kidding, it got sold.

Nothing:

• It’s official: The Nothing Phone 2 launch date is set in stone and a little under a month away.
• In the meantime, learn all there is to know about the Nothing Phone 2 specs, pricing, and design details.

Apple:

• Are you wondering why Tim Cook hasn’t donned the Vision Pro? Well, Apple doesn’t want its execs to become a meme.
• Also, will Apple have to pick a new name for its Vision Pro headset? You might want to ask HUAWEI.
• Here’s everything you need to know about visionOS.
• Looking for an affordable iPhone? These are your best options in 2023.
• iOS 17 features: Everything new that Apple has added to the iPhone’s OS.

Microsoft:

• When is Windows 12 launching anyway? We give you the low down on Microsoft’s next major desktop OS.
• On Windows 11, Microsoft is dumping the integrated Teams Chat menu. You’ll be getting a pinned app shortcut instead.

Social media:

• Much of the social media news this week surrounds Reddit. To recap, here’s everything you need to know about the ongoing Reddit protest.
• Some major subreddits protesting the impending Reddit API changes are still offline.
• According to a leaked internal memo, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman doesn’t plan on backing down either. This is even after a disastrous AMA.
• The popular r/Android subreddit has also committed to extending its blackout until June 20 at least.
• WhatsApp is working on several new features, from video messages to HD photos. It could also soon debut multi-account support.
• Also: Instagram’s Twitter rival will be ‘sanely run,’ and there are screenshots.
• According to a new report, Twitter’s refusing to pay its Google Cloud bills.
• Twitter’s also being booted from its Boulder, Colorado, office over unpaid rent.

Space:

• Why wouldn’t NASA want to use pencils in space? A remarkably fun read about leaky nibs, lead detritus, and a long-lived myth.
• A new supernova, just 21 million light-years away, could be used by aliens to get our attention.
• If we ever need to visit them, Elon Musk plans to relaunch SpaceX’s Starship this summer.

AI:

• From sermon to psalm: ChatGPT recently “led” an entire service at a 19th-century neo-Gothic German church. There were, unsurprisingly, mixed reviews.
• The EU takes a major step toward AI regulation as the AI Act moves into its final phase.
• Also: Google’s AI ambitions ran into a major stumbling block this week, with the EU clamping down on Google Bard access.

Elsewhere: 

• The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is finally available globally but at a hefty price.
• The ASUS ROG Phone 7 series is now available to pre-order in the US.
• Need to spice up your phone? Don’t miss this week’s edition of Wallpaper Wednesday.
• Also, we made 20 wallpapers just for you using the Pixel Emoji Workshop.
• Gasp! A declassified report reveals that the FBI buys your phone data, just like everyone else.
• Across the pond: UK carriers are taking a page out of US carriers’ playbook.
• A sweeping new law will force replaceable batteries on smartphones.
• Intel is rebranding its CPU lineup: Here’s how to decipher the new titles.
• Eek: Uber wants you to watch ads while you book a taxi and order food.

Movies/TV:

• Two US cable giants are launching their own streaming box later this year. Can you guess who they are?
• The updated Marvel movies release schedule through 2027 is here. Who’s ready for a new Fantastic Four flick?
• Looking for something to watch this weekend? Check out this list of the best new streaming movies from Netflix, Hulu, and more.
• More viewing: Here are 23 Apple TV Plus shows you should be watching in between.
• Also, check out 17 of the best gangster movies on Netflix.
• Planning a trip? Here’s how to connect a Chromecast to your hotel TV.
• Poll: Have you accidentally pressed an app shortcut button on your TV remote? Urg, too many times to count.
• Have an issue with Max? Here’s how to fix them and get streaming again.

Gaming:

• Here’s everything you need to know about Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Mobile.
• Also, Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile should debut on small screens soon!
• Oh, Blizzard: You’ll have to fork out over $15 to access Overwatch 2’s upcoming story missions. The game also gets another new support hero in August after Lifeweaver debuted in April.
• Google’s latest Easter egg paid homage to the classic and recently remastered PS2 title Katamari.
• The end of game downloads? Sony announces its currently testing cloud streaming PS5 games.
• Steam received a huge visual makeover this week. It looks great!
• Sticking with Valve, here’s everything you need to know about the next Steam Deck.
• Microsoft is officially bailing on the Xbox One. First-party studios will only make new games for the Series X|S.

Reviews

• Google’s Search Generative Experience tested: A Bing competitor at long last — “I’m happy to report that Google’s AI results have improved significantly since my first experience with Bard.” (Android Authority).
• OnePlus Nord N30 review: Should you buy it? — “Come for the fast charging, sharp primary camera, and cheap price. But your stay might be quite short.” (Android Authority).
• Garmin Fenix 7 Pro review: Should you buy it? — “The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro elevates the brand’s top multisport line another rung with significant hardware and software improvements.” (Android Authority).
• Black Mirror season 6 review: Not as sharp, but still has a lot to say — “The latest season of ‘Black Mirror’ is interested more in how we consume stories than taking tech to task.” (Collider).

Features

• I’m a photographer and I don’t care about camera quality when buying a new phone: “Even the best camera phones aren’t a bit leap in quality or control compared to a standalone camera.” (Android Authority).
• Transparency mode vs open-fit: Picking the right earbuds to hear the world: “Given the world is busier and noisier than ever, is there any room left for open-fit earbuds?” (Android Authority).
• How Nike Training Club kept me motivated through a running injury: “It wasn’t easy to suddenly stop running, but my need to stay active led me to explore new ways to work out.” (Android Authority).
• Calm vs Headspace: Which meditation app is right for you?: “Meditation is an effective and inexpensive method of training your brain to live more mindfully.” (Android Authority).

Weekly Wonder

Game studio Krool Toys has launched a new Game Boy Color title in honor of McDonald’s plump purple mascot Grimace (h/t Ars Technica).

• The Brooklyn-based studio is usually behind some of the quirkier brand-promotion titles on the platform, and Grimace’s Birthday is the latest addition.
• Although the title doesn’t hint at it, Grimace’s Birthday is a 2D skater simulator that sees the now +50-year-old Grom land gnarly tricks, collect milkshakes floating in the air, and meet up with the other McDonald’s mascots who planned a surprise party. It’s surprisingly wholesome.
• The game’s pretty short, but it has a surprisingly high amount of polish. I wasn’t expecting much, but I spent a good hour of my week playing (ahem, researching) it.
• It’s the falling animation that had me in stitches.
• In honor of Grimace’s birthday, McDonald’s also released a Grimace Birthday Meal and Shake. Some taste testers described the latter as “chemically purple.” Delicious.
• If you want to play Grimace’s Birthday, download a working Game Boy Color ROM and play it on your home-baked emulator system. Or, you can give it a go on your browser.
• Alternatively, grab your phone and let these great Android games occupy your afternoon instead.

Tech Calendar

• June 20: Pixel Tablet goes on sale in stores
• June 29: ASUS Zenfone 10 launch @ 9 AM ET
• June 29: Anapurna Interactive showcase @ 3 PM ET
• July 1: Reddit’s API changes take effect
• July 6: HONOR 90 global launch
• July 11: Nothing Phone 2 launch @ 11 AM ET
• July 26 (TBC): Samsung Galaxy Unpacked (Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5)
• October 24-26: Snapdragon Summit 2023 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3?)

Tech Tweet of the Week

Oh, to be a spider on that wall…

Something extra: With the Reddit debacle showing no signs of abating, I’ve been reducing my Reddit usage and considering how I use the web in my free time. Remember StumbleUpon? I miss it in times like this. Thankfully, The Useless Web has filled that void somewhat this week. Honestly, the site’s name says it all!

It’s been great standing in for Paula. Please give her a warm welcome when she returns next week! Until next time.

Andy Walker, Senior Writer.