This week’s Android headlines; Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra reviews, Pixel 9a pricing, Google Play Protect updates, Nothing (3a) launch, the return of Pebble, and

Google appears to be developing new UI for its voice search feature in the Play Store. On top of a new look, it also adds search history.

AI became a hot topic. Its influence even bled into the Google Play security division, which used AI in 92% of app security reviews.

Google Play will now display verification badges on approved VPNs as a way to “highlight apps that prioritize user privacy and safety,” the company announced on Tuesday. The new badge will appear on a VPN app’s details page and within search results, proving that it meets specific standards outlined by Google.

VPNs must also have at least 10,000 installs and 250 reviews, and have been published on the Google Play store for at least 90 days. In addition to this, the VPN must submit a Data Safety declaration, detailing how user data is collected, and opt-in to independent security reviews.

Google Play is rolling out "Verified" badges for select VPN apps to make it easier for users to find trust services. Apps with the badge prioritize user

Google’s post recapping Play Store and Android protections in 2024 is live, while highlighting new Play Protect features, like during calls.

Google is celebrating the Lunar New Year, marking the start of the Year of the Snake with a new Google Doodle game. Here's how to play.

Apple wants to ensure it has a voice in the remedies trial for the Justice Department’s search monopolization case against Google, and filed an emergency motion to stay the proceedings while it appeals the district court’s denial of its request to be more directly heard in the case.

As previously stated, this Verified badge is rolling out for VPNs that are "trusted" for protecting your data. The post adds that VPNs (virtual private networks) like NordVPN, hide.me, and Aloha are among the first to have gone through the necessary hoops to demonstrate a higher level of security/safety.

Google blocked 2.3 million Android app submissions to the Play Store in 2024 due to violations of its policies that made them potentially risky for users.