TLDR;
This week's Friday Checkout covers Google's implementation of AirDrop-like functionality on Android, Apple's impressive new in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, and Google's advancements in AI with Gemini 3. It also touches on the latest releases, including the DJI Action 6 and Leica Q3 monochrome camera, as well as updates from YouTube, Matter, Microsoft, and more.
- Google made airdrop work on Android.
- Apple's latest chip is remarkably great.
- The Gemini 3 is here and kind of scary good.
Intro [0:00]
The host introduces the main topics for this week's show, including Google's new AirDrop-like feature for Android, Apple's new chip performance, and Google's Gemini 3 AI model.
Airdrop on Android [0:16]
Google has introduced a way for Quick Share to work with AirDrop, enabling wireless file sharing between Android and iOS devices. The feature is rolling out to the Pixel 10 family and will soon be available on other Android devices. Google implemented this feature independently, with thorough vetting and testing by their privacy and security teams, as well as a third-party security firm. The EU's Digital Markets Act, which pushed Apple to adopt new Wi-Fi standards, likely facilitated this workaround. Sharing requires enabling AirDrop to be visible to everyone, and the host wonders if Apple will retaliate.
Apple N1 performance [1:22]
Apple launched the N1, their first in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, in the iPhone 17 series, replacing a Broadcom chip. Data from SpeedTest.net shows that the N1 chip significantly outperforms the old Broadcom chip across all regions and markets. The Pixel 10 series slightly outperformed the iPhone 17 in download speeds, while the Xiaomi 15T won in upload speeds, with the iPhone 17 securing second place in both categories. This data is based on millions of users in real-world conditions, highlighting Apple's success in developing its own chips after struggling with 4G and 5G modems.
Gemini 3 [2:34]
Google announced Gemini 3, its next-generation AI model, which can generate interactive user interfaces in chats to illustrate problems or provide tools like calculators for financial questions. Gemini 3 will also power a new version of Google's image editor, Nano Banana Pro, allowing users to edit existing images with prompts, including refocusing, with images up to 4K resolution. Google claims the images are watermarked for recognition of alterations, but this only applies to images generated by Gemini. The host expresses both amazement and concern about the potential for misuse and the creation of believable but altered images.
Release Monitor [4:11]
The release monitor includes the DJI Action 6, the first action camera with a variable aperture, ranging from f2.2 to f4, along with features like screw-on lenses and 10-bit log. Leica announced the Q3 monochrome, a black and white full-frame camera costing $7,790, which is $1,000 more than the color version. Samsung has also announced budget tablets, the Tab A11 and A11 Plus, with basic specs and prices starting at $180.
The Brief [5:02]
YouTube is testing the return of direct messages due to user demand. Matter 1.5 launched with support for security cameras, blinds, garage doors, gates, and energy management. Google's November Pixel drop update is seen as a bloatware update, with full-screen prompts to install themes for the Wicked movie. Microsoft is turning Windows into an agentic OS with AI agents in the taskbar. The summit on European digital sovereignty was held in Berlin, with France and Germany aiming for more control over their digital infrastructure. The US embassy sought explanations from the Funko German tech summit organizers. Euros Sky held a conference in Berlin, announcing a social media app using the AT protocol compatible with Blue Sky, but hosted and moderated in the EU. Samsung Display settled a three-year infringement row with BOE. The Moment Pro camera app got a big upgrade, allowing open gate shooting on all sensors and raw shooting on regular iPhone 17 models.
Q&A [8:25]
The host discusses using the Insta 360 X5 camera to shoot unique videos in Syria, highlighting its 360° capabilities, stabilization, and the ability to replace lenses. The Insta 360 X5 is on sale for Black Friday, and the first 10 people who use the provided link will receive a free lens replacement kit. The app simplifies footage management with automatic tracking, AI highlights, and manual options for professionals.
