Telecom
All the Android updates coming to the Samsung Galaxy S25 series and more
Gemini prompt box with “Ask Google Gemini” text. Around is a collection of features and UI components like a black watch, a Gemini Live conversation, a sports score on a Now Bar, and a Circle to Search result with AI Overview in a Galaxy S25 Ultra device.
Today at Galaxy Unpacked in San Jose, we showed you how we’re continuing to reimagine the Android smartphone experience with AI at the core. Together with Samsung, here are all the Android updates we’re bringing to the Galaxy S25 series and more.
1. Experience the power of Gemini in more ways
With Gemini on Android, you get a more powerful mobile assistant that provides contextual help based on what’s on your screen. And now, Gemini is easily accessible on your Samsung devices, with a simple press of the side button.
A blue hotspot long presses the Samsung Galaxy S25 power button and a Gemini prompt box appears at the bottom of the phone screen.
Extensions in Gemini tap into apps and services across your device, helping you quickly complete tasks. In addition to Google Maps, YouTube, Google Messages, Spotify and more, we’re introducing new Gemini Extensions for Samsung Reminder, Samsung Calendar, Samsung Notes and Samsung Clock. This means you can ask Gemini to tell you about an upcoming appointment, save a note or set a reminder.
In a single prompt, you can now ask Gemini to take multiple actions across apps and services. For example, if you’re looking for outdoor restaurants nearby and want to share the options with a friend, Gemini can connect to Google Maps to find the perfect spots and draft a ready-to-send text via Google Messages.
The prompt “Hi Google Gemini, find a few Italian, pet-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating nearby and text them to Luca” is added to the Gemini prompt box followed by Gemini finding a short list of restaurants that fit the criteria.
Gemini Live is a conversational experience that helps you brainstorm ideas, simplify complex topics and rehearse for important moments with real-time, spoken responses. Starting to roll out today, you can now add images, files and YouTube videos to the conversation, making Gemini Live more multimodal, personal and contextual to you.
An image of a painting is added to Gemini Live and the user asks, “What makes this painting so famous?”
Also in the coming months, we’ll introduce Project Astra capabilities like screen sharing and live video streaming first to the Gemini app on Android and the Galaxy S25 series.
2. Stay up to date on sports and directions with Galaxy S25’s Now Bar
Galaxy S25’s Now Bar brings relevant updates right to your lock screen. For sports fans, Galaxy S25’s Now Bar will ensure you are clued into all the action by bringing key match updates about the teams you follow on Google right to your lock screen. With a single glance at your phone, you’ll know when a match is on and be able to follow live with scores and more. If you want to dive deeper, simply tap the card to get perspectives, stats and news on Google Search.
A sport score of 1-0 is shown on the lock screen.
With Google Maps in the Now Bar, you can also save time and stay on schedule. See directions at a glance when you’re on the go and get timely notifications on events, like when to leave for an appointment based on current traffic.
3. Get more helpful information with AI Overviews and one-tap actions in Circle to Search
Last year, we launched Circle to Search as a new way to search anything on your phone without having to switch between apps.
Today, we’re expanding AI Overviews to even more visual searches on Circle to Search so you can quickly and easily see a snapshot of information about your search with links to learn more from the web. Whether you circle an image of a viral dish, a landmark or a rare antique you saw online, you’ll get an AI Overview for more responses — so you can find what you need, faster and more effortlessly.
Circle to Search is invoked on a green dessert. An AI Overview appears in Search identifying the dessert as a Matcha Mont Blanc cake.
And Circle to Search now has one-tap actions, so it’s easier to get things done on your phone. Circle to Search automatically identifies phone numbers, email addresses and URLs on your screen. Simply tap the chip that appears to call, email or visit a website.
Circle to Search is invoked and an action chip showing a phone icon appears over a phone number.
4. Enjoy improved hearing aid and braille display experiences on Android
For people who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing, we’ve brought LE audio features, the next generation of Bluetooth, to Galaxy S25 devices. This update enables hands-free calling, easy-to-use personalized audio adjustments and a low-latency connection to GN Hearing and Oticon Intent hearing aids when paired with a Galaxy S25 device using Android 15.
Android phone settings with hearing aid controls including altering presets to outdoors and the charge level of right and left.
And for people who are blind or have low vision, TalkBack 15 on Galaxy S25 devices will now be compatible with braille displays that use HID, a popular way to connect to Bluetooth devices. Following feedback from the community, this compatibility will ensure people can use their braille displays without additional steps, making Galaxy S25 devices even more accessible. In the coming weeks, TalkBack on Galaxy S25 devices will also provide more detailed image descriptions, powered by Gemini models.
5. Stay connected with the Galaxy Watch for Kids experience
With Google Family Link, parents can use their phone to set up and manage Galaxy Watch7 LTE smartwatches with a Galaxy Watch for Kids experience. This allows parents to approve contacts, monitor their child’s watch’s location, manage apps and set up school time to limit distractions during school hours.
This update starts rolling out today in the U.S. with support from major carriers including AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon.
Three Galaxy Watch7 LTEs with colorful kids bands featuring watch faces from Groot, Crayola and Barbie.
Learn more about Samsung’s new Galaxy S25 smartphones now.
[1] Availability may vary by device, country and language. Results are for illustrative purposes and may vary. Check responses for accuracy. Internet connection and compatible operating system required.
[2] Features may differ depending on device or subscription and results may vary. Some extensions require setup. Country availability may vary. Check responses for accuracy.
[3] Compatible with certain features and with certain accounts. Internet connection required. Available on select devices, languages, and countries. Results for illustrative purposes and may vary. Check responses for accuracy.
[4] Requires Google account and Internet connection. Available on select devices and availability varies by sport, league, language and is based on the user’s device settings.
[5] Available on select devices and internet connection required. Works on compatible apps and surfaces. Results may vary depending on visual matches. Results are for illustrative purposes and may vary. Check responses for accuracy.
Vivo, Chinese smartphone maker has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Credit Direct, Nigerian consumer finance company to launch a device financing programme in the country.
L-R: Toni Liu, CEO, vivo Nigeria, and Chukwuma Nwanze, MD/CEO, Credit Direct, at the MoU signing in Lagos
This initiative aims to remove barriers to smartphone ownership while supporting Vivo’s expansion strategy in Nigeria.
Under the terms of the agreement, customers can purchase a Vivo smartphone by paying 20% upfront and spreading the remaining balance over six months.
Credit Direct will provide the financing.
Both companies target sales of more than 200,000 devices in the first year.
“People who need smartphones but cannot pay upfront can now do so through a payment plan that does not strain their monthly income. Our mission has always been to make financial solutions a universal opportunity, and this is exactly what this represents in practice. I am truly excited about what we can achieve together,” said Chukwuma Nwanze, chief executive officer of Credit Direct.
This initiative comes as smartphone financing programs gain momentum across Africa, where device affordability remains a key barrier to mobile internet adoption.
According to the GSMA, the median cost of an entry-level smartphone in Nigeria fell from $84 in 2018 to $18 in 2024, reducing its share of average monthly income to 26%.
However, currency depreciation and rising living costs have offset much of this progress.
For the poorest 40% of Nigerians, an entry-level smartphone still represents 56% of monthly income, while it accounts for 73% for the poorest 20%, highlighting persistent affordability constraints among vulnerable households.
Despite these challenges, smartphone ownership reached only 27% in Nigeria in 2024, according to the GSMA, leaving significant room for growth.
Data from StatCounter shows that Vivo held a 1.18% market share at the end of March 2026.
The company remains far behind market leader Tecno with 18.72%, followed by Infinix at 16.28%, Samsung at 15.4%, Apple at 14.15%, and Xiaomi at 8.17%.
Other players such as Oppo, Itel, and Huawei also operate in the market.
Nigeria’s foremost payments and financial inclusion dialogue platform, Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON 3.0), will hold this Friday, April 24, 2026, at the prestigious Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, bringing together regulators, fintech leaders, banks, policymakers, agent networks, cybersecurity experts, innovators, and ecosystem stakeholders to shape the future of digital payments in Nigeria.
Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON 3.0
With the theme: “Fair Digital Payments as a Catalyst for Deepening Financial Inclusion in Nigeria,” PAFON 3.0 comes at a defining moment for the country’s digital economy as stakeholders seek practical pathways to close the inclusion gap, strengthen trust in payment systems, and accelerate access for underserved populations.
Why PAFON 3.0 is Different
“Unlike routine conferences, PAFON is a solutions-driven forum designed to bridge policy conversations with market realities.
“The event uniquely convenes fintech operators, agent banking networks, cooperatives, payment innovators, cybersecurity professionals, and thought leaders under one roof to tackle real challenges affecting Nigerians at the grassroots”, said Peter Oluka, co-convener of Payments Forum Nigeria.
“From digital trust and cybersecurity to agency banking, embedded finance, stablecoins, eNaira, SME growth, and healthcare financing, PAFON 3.0 is positioned as one of the most strategic gatherings in Nigeria’s payments ecosystem this year”, Oluka added.
High-Profile Keynote Speakers Confirmed
This year’s edition will feature a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers and industry leaders, including Prof. Adewale Peter Obadare, chief visionary officer, Digital Encode, and Dr. Jameelah Sherrief-Ayedu, vice president, FintechNGR & CEO, Credit Registry
Other confirmed speakers include, Dennis Ajalie, managing director, TeamApt Ltd.; Mr. Chika Nwosu, managing director, PalmPay Nigeria; Uche Uzoebo, MD/CEO, Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF Limited): Special Guest of Honour; Chike Onwuegbuchi, Chairman, Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association of Nigeria (NITRA); Mojeed Abayomi Agboola, national president, Financial Inclusion Agents Multipurpose Cooperative Society (FIAMCS); Ibirogba Oluwagunwa, chairman Lagos Chapter, Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN); Sarafadeen Atanda Fasasi, and president, Association of Financial Inclusion Agents of Nigeria (AFIAN).
Fireside Chat on Africa’s Next Innovators
Another standout session will explore the future of digital currencies and regional interoperability: Stablecoins vs. eNaira: Orchestrating a Unified Digital Payment Rail for West Africa
This special fireside chat, hosted in collaboration with Lagos Blockchain Week, promises fresh perspectives on the next phase of Africa’s payment innovation journey.
Chuwuemeka Enoch Mbaebie, Lead convener of LBW will host the session alongside Senator Ihenyen, Lead Partner of Infusion Lawyers and Founding Trustee of the Virtual Asset Service Providers Association (VASPA); Victoria Oluebube Igboanugo, marketing lead, Lagos Blockchain Week; Chidubem Emelumadu, ecosystem lead (Africa), Lisk, and Harrison Obiefule, Nigerian lead for Superteam.
More Activities Lined Up
Attendees will also experience product demo of Myitura Healthcare Financing Solution;
Townhall Meeting on The State of Agency Banking in Nigeria led by AMMBAN; Goodwill messages from leading institutions and industry associations, and strategic networking with decision-makers across banking, fintech, regulation, media, and innovation ecosystems
PAFON 3.0 is expected to attract C-suite executives, startup founders, regulators, investors, digital payment operators, development institutions, policymakers, and professionals seeking to understand where Nigeria’s payment future is heading.
Participation
Participation is free.
The application deadline for the fifth edition of the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP) has been extended to April 25, 2026, organisers have announced.
MTN Nigeria Media Innovation Programme
The extension offers additional time for qualified media professionals and digital content creators across Nigeria to apply for the fully funded programme aimed at advancing storytelling and media innovation.
The initiative is sponsored by MTN Nigeria in partnership with the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University (PAU).
Organisers said the 2026 cohort would admit 25 fellows, an increase from the previous 20, in line with MTN Nigeria’s 25th anniversary and its continued commitment to strengthening the country’s media ecosystem.
Launched in 2022, the six-month certificate programme provides participants with training in media innovation, leadership and digital transformation.
It features academic sessions at PAU, industry engagements and an international study visit, including sessions at the University of Johannesburg.
According to the organisers, the programme has produced a growing network of alumni contributing to Nigeria’s media landscape through leadership roles, new media ventures and impactful storytelling.
The programme is open to practitioners across print, broadcast, digital and social media, with applicants expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation and professional development.
Interested applicants can submit their entries through the School of Media and Communication website.
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process, with successful applicants expected to commence the programme in May 2026.
Nigeria CommunicationsWeek reports that the initiative is part of broader efforts to equip media professionals with the skills needed to adapt to the evolving digital economy.
Ecobank in Talks with Bank of China for Direct Yuan Settlement
Cross River State Isolates 10 More Persons with COVID Symptoms
Vivo, Credit Direct Ink Agreement on Smartphone Credit Purchase
Government, Industrial Sectors became the Primary Targets for Cybercriminals in 2025 – Report
The Visibility Trap
NBC Boss Urges Content Ceators to Participate in DSO
NITDA Takes Over National Digital Architecture System
FG Shifting Focus to “Meaningful Connectivity” to Drive Inclusion – Minister
Jury Finds Meta, Google Liable for Woman’s Social Media Addiction
Microsoft Revamps Copilot in Workplace AI Push
E-Business2 days agoCIBN Allegedly Hit by 250GB Data Breach
E-Financial2 days agoFlutterwave Dismisses Reported $75m Investment by FG
E-Business2 days agoNigeria @ Risks Losing Digital Control- NiRA
Telecom2 days agoNigeria Moves to Curb Fraud as NCC, CBN Seal Consumer Protection Pact
E-Business2 days agoKaspersky MDR Introduces Major Updates, Strengthening Detection and Investigation Capabilities
Telecom2 days agoFCCPC Denies Banning Airtime, Data Borrowing Services in Nigeria
News2 days agoBOI, RMRDC Seal MoU to Address Agric Value Chain Challenges, Boost Nigeria’s GDP
Broadcasting2 days agoNUJ Accuses NBC of Attempting to Gag Media, Demands Dialogue