The Google Play Store is introducing a handy new feature that lets apps open on their own right after you install them. This update, which is rolling out to Android users worldwide, aims to make the app installation process smoother and more convenient. Instead of manually tapping to open a new app, you can now let the Play Store do it for you.

When you download an app, you’ll notice a new “Auto-open when ready” toggle just below the usual “Cancel” and “Open” buttons. If you turn this toggle on, the app will launch automatically five seconds after the installation finishes. A notification with a countdown timer will appear, giving you the option to hit “Open” sooner or “Cancel” to stop the auto-launch.

This feature is turned off by default, so you’ll need to enable it each time you install an app. Unfortunately, there’s no way to hide the toggle if you don’t want to use it, which might feel a bit cluttered for some users.Google has been testing this auto-open feature since June 2024, with early signs appearing in September of that year.

Now, it’s finally reaching more devices, likely with Play Store version 42.5.15 or later. The goal is to help users who often forget to open apps after downloading them, especially larger ones like games. This is part of Google’s broader effort to improve the Play Store experience, which also includes reminders for unopened apps 24 hours after installation.

Alongside this, Google has added other updates, like the ability to install or update up to three apps at once, making the process faster. While the auto-open feature is a small change, it could save time for those who want to jump straight into using their new apps. As Google continues to tweak the Play Store, users can expect more ways to streamline their Android experience.

Google’s Android 16 brings exciting updates to keep your phone safer and make calls smarter, especially for Pixel users. These changes focus on stronger security through a feature called Advanced Protection and improved call handling with AI-powered tools. Let’s dive into what’s new and how it makes your phone experience better.

Stronger Security with Advanced Protection

Android 16 introduces a handy security feature called Advanced Protection, designed to shield your phone from threats with one simple toggle. Found in the Settings app, this mode activates multiple safeguards at once, like blocking unsafe apps, stopping risky connections, and protecting against spam calls and messages.

A new addition in Android 16 lets apps check if Advanced Protection is on, so they can turn on their own security measures. Right now, Google apps like Chrome, Play Store, Messages, and Phone support this, but third-party apps can join in if they use the right tools. This means your apps can work together to keep your data safer, making it tougher for hackers or scammers to cause trouble.

Smarter Calls with AI Features

Google is also upgrading how Pixel phones handle calls, and you don’t need the latest Pixel 10 to enjoy these perks. The “Take a Message” feature lets an AI assistant answer your calls and create messages from voicemails, all without needing an internet connection.

Another cool tool, Call Notes, now uses AI to figure out next steps after a call, like reminding you to follow up or schedule something. This was thought to be exclusive to the Pixel 10 but is now available on the Pixel 9 series for US English users. These features make managing calls easier, saving you time and hassle.

Why These Updates Matter

These Android 16 upgrades show Google’s focus on making phones more secure and user-friendly. Advanced Protection simplifies keeping your device safe, while the new call features help Pixel users stay organized and avoid spam.

Whether you’re worried about security or just want smarter call handling, Android 16 has something for you. To try these features, update your Pixel 6 or newer to Android 16, or wait for Samsung’s One UI 8 to bring Advanced Protection to Galaxy phones.

Google is rolling out exciting updates to several of its apps and services, making them easier to use and more visually appealing for Android users. These changes include a new beta program for YouTube on Android TV and Google TV, a redesigned Gmail, updated Android system services, a simplified backup settings page, and a refreshed Google Messages interface.

Here’s a closer look at what’s new.YouTube is now offering a beta program for its Android TV and Google TV apps in select countries. This program lets users try out new features before they’re available to everyone. By joining the beta, you can test early versions of the app and share feedback to help improve the big-screen YouTube experience.

It’s a great way to get a sneak peek at upcoming changes and help shape the app’s future.Gmail on Android is getting a modern makeover with Google’s Material 3 Expressive design. The update, which started testing in June, is now widely available. The email list is now displayed in a single rounded container, giving it a cleaner and more unified look.

When you open an email, the design continues with a clear app bar and subject line. Buttons for replying and forwarding are now bolder, using vibrant colors to stand out, though the compose screen and homescreen widget are still awaiting updates.Android’s system services are also getting a boost.

A new “System Services” page, introduced in July, is now rolling out to manage background apps that keep your device running smoothly. This update makes it easier to understand and control these essential services.

The Android backup settings page has been simplified with the Material 3 Expressive design. Found under Settings > System > Backup on Pixel devices, the new layout fits everything on one page, making it easier to manage your backups without scrolling through multiple screens.

Finally, Google Messages is getting a fresh chat interface. The conversation screen now features a rounded container for messages, with a cleaner app bar and a solid background color instead of the old bubbly wallpaper.

The media picker and emoji menu have also been updated for a smoother experience. These updates show Google’s commitment to improving its apps with user-friendly designs and new features, making your Android experience more enjoyable.