Google Maps supports real-time route sharing
The top app for navigation on the App Store, Google Maps recently added live location sharing support for iOS. You can now use your iPhone to reveal live location, estimated time of arrival and route with select contacts. These new functions are also available in third-party apps such as Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp and Apple’s native Messages, among others.
After updating Google Maps to the latest version, simply designate a destination and hit start. Swipe up, and there’s now an option to “share trip progress.” From there you can select contacts to share your location information via a link. Don’t worry about terminating the link because Google Maps does so automatically after the end of your journey. However, if location history is enabled, trip information may be saved on the device used.
Apple announces “There’s More in the Making”
On Oct. 30, Apple is hosting an event titled “There’s More in the Making” in Brooklyn, New York. What’s the more? The tech giant is expected to present new iPad Pro tablets and possible updates to its Mac devices. Rumored new iPad Pro tablets will use USB-C connection, replacing the previous Lighting connection. Improvements on the display are expected for the new iPad Pros in addition to the implementation of Face ID technology.
The MacBook line is rumored to face major improvements. Speculation about the new model’s upgrades include a retina display with thinner bezels, a seventh or eighth generation processor, USB-C support, and faster memory. The new budget device is expected to replace the MacBook Air line. The current Macbook Air costs $1000. The new model is anticipated to have the same starting price tag.
What else does Apple have in store at the end of the month? Other Mac lines could get new changes such as the iMac and Mac Mini. Although not every Mac model is believed to get new features or a redesign, hopefully Apple modernizes the hardware of most of these models that are due for an upgrade.
Google to charge for Google platforms and apps
Earlier in July, Google was found to be violating European Commission antitrust rules and fined $5 billion. The decision was formed based on Google’s strong integration of its browser and apps, among other influences in the Android Operating System. The ruling essentially stated Google’s dominance of Android threatened competitors from introducing new apps on Android. Google appealed the decision.
Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai wrote a response to the fine in The Keyword, Google’s official blog. “The free distribution of the Android platform, and of Google’s suite of applications, is not only efficient for phone makers and operators — it’s of huge benefit for developers and consumers. If phone makers and mobile network operators couldn’t include our apps on their wide range of devices, it would upset the balance of the Android ecosystem.”
Since the fine, Google has complied with the European Commission by allowing Android partners in the European Economic Area (EEA) to introduce Google apps on non-compatible or forked devices. Google also separated its popular search and browser licensing so that device manufacturers can now license Google suite apps, excluding Google’s Search app and Chrome. Perhaps in response to the hefty fine and restrictions, Google has recently decided to change its business model. Paid licensing was recently introduced, charging manufacturers who ship Android phones and tablets in the EEA. Android itself will remain open source and free.
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