Week 19

Google I/O. Here’s everything we’re expecting to see at this year’s Google I/O. Announcements will likely include Android 13, Pixel 6a, Pixel Watch, a new Nest Hub display, and maybe — just maybe — a nod at the foldable they have cooking (more below)? Most of these questions will get answered in the Keynote, which kicks off Google I/O today.

Apple NFC. Apple’s latest antitrust fight is over Apple Pay. Or, more specifically, over the NFC chip in iPhones, which makes Apple Pay the only way. This is being investigated as anticompetitive behavior towards rival mobile wallets — which violates antitrust rules in the EU. Apple, not surprisingly, insists that the apparent closed systems serve as security protections. However, it’s their dominant position in the market that regulators frown upon. Not a good look.

macOS 2-in-1? Apple granted a new patent for iPad keyboard that triggers macOS-like UI. The figures included in the patent request suggest a possible MacBook/iPad hybrid in the future. And I’m here for it. It’s worth noting that, although extremely clever to glean future specs from patent requests, it does not mean that anything will ever become of it. But given that Microsoft has already leaned into 2-in-1 tablets with optimized mobile support via Windows 11, one can only hope that Apple follows a similar path.

Pixel Fold. If the rumor’s true, the Google Pixel Fold may be smaller than the Galaxy Z Fold 3. According to a tweet by display analyst Ross Young, who has been known to be reliable, the Pixel Fold’s dimensions will land somewhere between the Galaxy Z Fold and the Oppo Find N. And the launch may be pushed out to 2023. Again, it’s just a rumor, so take it with a grain of salt.

App Roundup. Peacock is revamping its TV interface. Xbox levels up mobile app with Stories. Snap expands e-commerce reach with AR. Twitter testing new conversation thread button. WhatsApp of iOS now rolling out Reactions. Whew!

From the desk of…

Okay, okay, I promise I’ll write something here next week. Just trying to get this issue squeezed out before Google I/O commences.

Articles

• Google I/O 2022: Here's what to expect (Android Authority)
• Apple’s new antitrust fight (Protocol)
• Apple patent describes iPad keyboard accessory that triggers macOS-like UI (9to5Mac)
• Google Pixel Fold Rumor Says It's Smaller Than Galaxy Z Fold 3, May Be Coming 2023 (CNET)
• App Roundup
  • Peacock is revamping its terrible TV interface, shares a first look at the new design (9to5Google)
  • Xbox levels up mobile app through stories feature (Marketing Dive)
  • Snap expands e-commerce reach for brands with new AR tech (Marketing Dive)
  • Twitter testing new conversation thread button for Spaces (9to5Mac)
  • WhatsApp for iOS now rolling out long-anticipated Reactions feature, here’s how to use it (9to5Mac)

Events

• [May 11–12] Google I/O (Google)
• [Jun 6–10] WWDC 2022 (Apple)
• [Jun 15–16] VOICE Global 2022 (Modev)

Resources

• [Case Study] New UX Benchmark for Takeout & Food Delivery Mobile Sites and Mobile Apps (Baymard Institute)
• [Case Study] Instagram Lite: A global collaboration between research and design (Meta)
• [Guidelines] Recruiting High-Income Participants: Challenges and Tips (NN/g)
• [Report] The latest US entertainment trends (GWI)
• [Report] This Week in Apps #112 - The Race is On! (AppFigures)