Google Pixel 10 Loses Key Tech Lifesaver Feature

The Evolution of Wireless Charging and the Discontinuation of Battery Share

With the release of the Pixel 10 series, Google made a significant shift in its approach to wireless charging. The company adopted the newer and faster Qi2 wireless charging system, which introduced a range of new features, including the PixelSnap line of charging and protective accessories. These accessories utilize magnets for better alignment and stability during charging. However, this transition also came with some trade-offs, particularly in terms of functionality.

One notable feature that has been affected is the Battery Share function, which was available on previous Pixel models. This feature allowed users to wirelessly charge other devices, such as earbuds or smartwatches, by placing them on the back of their Pixel phone. It was a convenient solution when a user’s accessory ran low on power, especially in situations where access to a traditional charger was limited.

What Changed with the Pixel 10 Series?

The Battery Share feature first appeared with the Pixel 5 and became a staple of the Pixel lineup. It worked seamlessly with any Qi-certified device, making it a useful tool for users who often found themselves needing to charge multiple devices at once. However, this feature is no longer available on the Pixel 10 series. According to Google's support page, Battery Share is only supported on mainline Pixel smartphones from the Pixel 5 onward, excluding the Pixel 10 series, foldables, and the budget-focused Pixel A phones.

This change is directly linked to the implementation of the Qi2 wireless charging standard. Unlike previous versions of Qi, Qi2 includes built-in magnets that help align the phone with the charging pad. While this improves the efficiency and reliability of wireless charging, it also introduces limitations when it comes to reverse charging.

Why Is Power Sharing No Longer Available?

The primary reason behind the absence of Battery Share on the Pixel 10 series is the presence of these magnets. They are positioned under the rear shell of the phone and are designed to create a strong connection with Qi2-compatible chargers. However, this same magnetic setup may interfere with the ability to transfer power from one device to another.

In a statement shared with Droidreader, Google explained that the array of magnets creates a strong connection with the charger but presents a physical limitation for reverse wireless charging. While Battery Share is not currently available on the Pixel 10, the company emphasized that it is always exploring future innovations to enhance the Pixel experience.

The Broader Implications

As more Android smartphones adopt the Qi2 wireless charging standard, the use of magnets in the charging area is likely to become more widespread. This raises an important question: Will this trend lead to the end of reverse wireless power sharing? For now, it seems that the convenience of Battery Share may be sacrificed for the benefits of a more stable and efficient charging experience.

Other manufacturers, such as Samsung, continue to offer reverse wireless charging on their devices, including the latest Galaxy Z Fold 7. This suggests that there is still demand for the feature, and it remains to be seen whether future iterations of Qi2 will address the limitations that have caused Battery Share to disappear from the Pixel 10 series.

The Future of Wireless Charging

The evolution of wireless charging technology is ongoing, and it's clear that companies like Google are making strategic decisions based on performance and user experience. While the loss of Battery Share may be disappointing for some users, it highlights the trade-offs that come with adopting new standards. As the ecosystem continues to develop, it will be interesting to see how manufacturers balance innovation with the features that users value most.

Google Pixel 10 Loses Key Tech Lifesaver Feature

The Evolution of Wireless Charging and the Discontinuation of Battery Share

With the release of the Pixel 10 series, Google made a significant shift in its approach to wireless charging. The company adopted the newer and faster Qi2 wireless charging system, which introduced a range of new features, including the PixelSnap line of charging and protective accessories. These accessories utilize magnets for better alignment and stability during charging. However, this transition also came with some trade-offs, particularly in terms of functionality.

One notable feature that has been affected is the Battery Share function, which was available on previous Pixel models. This feature allowed users to wirelessly charge other devices, such as earbuds or smartwatches, by placing them on the back of their Pixel phone. It was a convenient solution when a user’s accessory ran low on power, especially in situations where access to a traditional charger was limited.

What Changed with the Pixel 10 Series?

The Battery Share feature first appeared with the Pixel 5 and became a staple of the Pixel lineup. It worked seamlessly with any Qi-certified device, making it a useful tool for users who often found themselves needing to charge multiple devices at once. However, this feature is no longer available on the Pixel 10 series. According to Google's support page, Battery Share is only supported on mainline Pixel smartphones from the Pixel 5 onward, excluding the Pixel 10 series, foldables, and the budget-focused Pixel A phones.

This change is directly linked to the implementation of the Qi2 wireless charging standard. Unlike previous versions of Qi, Qi2 includes built-in magnets that help align the phone with the charging pad. While this improves the efficiency and reliability of wireless charging, it also introduces limitations when it comes to reverse charging.

Why Is Power Sharing No Longer Available?

The primary reason behind the absence of Battery Share on the Pixel 10 series is the presence of these magnets. They are positioned under the rear shell of the phone and are designed to create a strong connection with Qi2-compatible chargers. However, this same magnetic setup may interfere with the ability to transfer power from one device to another.

In a statement shared with Droidreader, Google explained that the array of magnets creates a strong connection with the charger but presents a physical limitation for reverse wireless charging. While Battery Share is not currently available on the Pixel 10, the company emphasized that it is always exploring future innovations to enhance the Pixel experience.

The Broader Implications

As more Android smartphones adopt the Qi2 wireless charging standard, the use of magnets in the charging area is likely to become more widespread. This raises an important question: Will this trend lead to the end of reverse wireless power sharing? For now, it seems that the convenience of Battery Share may be sacrificed for the benefits of a more stable and efficient charging experience.

Other manufacturers, such as Samsung, continue to offer reverse wireless charging on their devices, including the latest Galaxy Z Fold 7. This suggests that there is still demand for the feature, and it remains to be seen whether future iterations of Qi2 will address the limitations that have caused Battery Share to disappear from the Pixel 10 series.

The Future of Wireless Charging

The evolution of wireless charging technology is ongoing, and it's clear that companies like Google are making strategic decisions based on performance and user experience. While the loss of Battery Share may be disappointing for some users, it highlights the trade-offs that come with adopting new standards. As the ecosystem continues to develop, it will be interesting to see how manufacturers balance innovation with the features that users value most.

First-of-its-kind fire truck debuts: Unmatched performance and dependability

A New Era in Emergency Response: Cary Introduces First Electric Fire Truck on the East Coast

Cary, North Carolina, has taken a significant step forward in sustainable emergency response by introducing the first electric fire truck on the East Coast. The Cary Fire Department recently put the Pierce Volterra electric pumper into service after successful testing with crews. This innovative vehicle represents a major shift toward greener and more efficient firefighting operations.

The Volterra is equipped with a 500-gallon water tank, a 155-kilowatt-hour battery pack, and a backup diesel engine. This combination allows firefighters to handle most daily emergencies using only electric power, while the diesel engine ensures they can manage high-intensity calls without interruption. This means a reduction in tailpipe emissions and lower fuel costs for the department.

"Reliability is non-negotiable when it comes to public safety," said Fire Chief Mike Cooper in a press release. "That's why we chose the Pierce Volterra EV. It delivers the performance and dependability we require while supporting Cary's broader goals around sustainability and resiliency."

Cary has been actively working to reduce pollution through various initiatives. One such effort involves using Pierce's Idle Reduction Technology across its fleet, which powers critical functions without running the engine. The new electric pumper adds another layer to these efforts. "More than 90% of our calls will now be powered by electric response," said Chief Cooper.

Electric and hybrid vehicles are playing an increasingly important role in the green energy transition. For everyday drivers, switching to an electric vehicle (EV) can lead to significant savings on fuel and maintenance, as there’s no need for oil changes. Additionally, EVs help reduce toxic air pollution and provide a quieter driving experience.

While the production of EV batteries does have its own environmental impact, studies show that traditional gas-powered engines produce nearly double the pollution over their lifetimes compared to EVs running on today's power grid. According to MIT Climate, this makes EVs a more sustainable choice in the long run.

The electric pumper has already proven its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. "The batteries were at about 87% when they responded to the call," Chief Cooper shared with North Carolina Public Radio about a recent fire. "They pulled three lines and flowed water for just over three hours, and it only reduced the batteries to about 42%."

This groundbreaking vehicle not only supports Cary’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a precedent for other cities looking to modernize their emergency response systems. As more communities embrace electric technology, the benefits of cleaner air, lower costs, and improved efficiency become increasingly evident.

If you're interested in learning more about how your city is addressing air quality issues, consider taking a quick poll. Your input can help raise awareness and drive positive change.

Stay informed with the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future by joining a free newsletter. Don’t miss out on this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

First-of-its-kind fire truck debuts: Unmatched performance and dependability

A New Era in Emergency Response: Cary Introduces First Electric Fire Truck on the East Coast

Cary, North Carolina, has taken a significant step forward in sustainable emergency response by introducing the first electric fire truck on the East Coast. The Cary Fire Department recently put the Pierce Volterra electric pumper into service after successful testing with crews. This innovative vehicle represents a major shift toward greener and more efficient firefighting operations.

The Volterra is equipped with a 500-gallon water tank, a 155-kilowatt-hour battery pack, and a backup diesel engine. This combination allows firefighters to handle most daily emergencies using only electric power, while the diesel engine ensures they can manage high-intensity calls without interruption. This means a reduction in tailpipe emissions and lower fuel costs for the department.

"Reliability is non-negotiable when it comes to public safety," said Fire Chief Mike Cooper in a press release. "That's why we chose the Pierce Volterra EV. It delivers the performance and dependability we require while supporting Cary's broader goals around sustainability and resiliency."

Cary has been actively working to reduce pollution through various initiatives. One such effort involves using Pierce's Idle Reduction Technology across its fleet, which powers critical functions without running the engine. The new electric pumper adds another layer to these efforts. "More than 90% of our calls will now be powered by electric response," said Chief Cooper.

Electric and hybrid vehicles are playing an increasingly important role in the green energy transition. For everyday drivers, switching to an electric vehicle (EV) can lead to significant savings on fuel and maintenance, as there’s no need for oil changes. Additionally, EVs help reduce toxic air pollution and provide a quieter driving experience.

While the production of EV batteries does have its own environmental impact, studies show that traditional gas-powered engines produce nearly double the pollution over their lifetimes compared to EVs running on today's power grid. According to MIT Climate, this makes EVs a more sustainable choice in the long run.

The electric pumper has already proven its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. "The batteries were at about 87% when they responded to the call," Chief Cooper shared with North Carolina Public Radio about a recent fire. "They pulled three lines and flowed water for just over three hours, and it only reduced the batteries to about 42%."

This groundbreaking vehicle not only supports Cary’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a precedent for other cities looking to modernize their emergency response systems. As more communities embrace electric technology, the benefits of cleaner air, lower costs, and improved efficiency become increasingly evident.

If you're interested in learning more about how your city is addressing air quality issues, consider taking a quick poll. Your input can help raise awareness and drive positive change.

Stay informed with the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future by joining a free newsletter. Don’t miss out on this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

Brain's Built-In GPS Navigates the World: Study

Understanding the Brain's Internal Navigation System

Scientists have long been fascinated by how the brain tracks direction and movement, and a recent breakthrough study has provided new insights into this complex process. By using brain imaging and virtual reality (VR), researchers have identified two specific areas in the brain that help maintain a sense of direction as people move through space. This discovery sheds light on the hidden mechanisms behind spatial orientation, which are essential for everyday activities like walking, driving, and exploring unfamiliar environments. The findings were recently published in the journal JNeurosci, marking a significant advancement in the field.

From Rat Cells to Human Navigation

Neuroscientist Russell Epstein is particularly interested in how humans navigate and orient themselves in the world. While this task may seem simple, it can be surprisingly difficult for many individuals. His research builds upon groundbreaking studies with rats that earned three scientists the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. These studies revealed specialized neurons that form the basis of the brain’s internal navigation system. Epstein and his colleagues aim to connect these animal-based findings to the differences observed in human navigation abilities. Some people have an exceptional sense of direction, while others frequently get lost even in familiar places. By mapping how the brain processes orientation and spatial awareness, researchers hope to uncover not only the roots of navigation but also the reasons behind variations in this essential skill among individuals.

The Study That Revealed the Brain’s GPS

In the study, researchers collected neuroimaging data while 15 participants completed a taxi-driving task in a virtual reality city. Two distinct brain regions showed a consistent signal related to forward-facing direction as the participants moved around. This neural signal remained stable across different versions of the city with varying visual features. It was also consistent during different phases of the task, such as picking up a passenger or driving them to their destination, and across various locations within the city. Further analysis suggested that these brain regions represent a wide range of facing directions by tracking direction relative to the north-south axis of the environment.

How Cracking the Brain’s GPS Could Change Everything

The researchers believe that these brain regions may function as a neural compass. According to Science Daily, “Losing your sense of direction is something that can happen in neurodegenerative diseases, so continuing to explore the function of these two brain regions may help with early detection or monitoring [the] progression of these diseases.” Epstein also emphasized the importance of understanding how people use both visual and internal cues for navigation, which could have implications for those with impaired vision.

The Puzzle of the Brain’s Spatial Maps

Epstein aims to solve the puzzle of how the brain stores different maps of the world and retrieves them when needed. Although he and his colleagues are still far from fully explaining how the human brain navigates, each experiment provides a new clue. Together, these discoveries are gradually revealing the mysterious system that underlies our ability to find our way. As more pieces are added to the map, the complexity of the brain’s internal GPS continues to unfold, offering exciting possibilities for future research and applications.

Brain's Built-In GPS Navigates the World: Study

Understanding the Brain's Internal Navigation System

Scientists have long been fascinated by how the brain tracks direction and movement, and a recent breakthrough study has provided new insights into this complex process. By using brain imaging and virtual reality (VR), researchers have identified two specific areas in the brain that help maintain a sense of direction as people move through space. This discovery sheds light on the hidden mechanisms behind spatial orientation, which are essential for everyday activities like walking, driving, and exploring unfamiliar environments. The findings were recently published in the journal JNeurosci, marking a significant advancement in the field.

From Rat Cells to Human Navigation

Neuroscientist Russell Epstein is particularly interested in how humans navigate and orient themselves in the world. While this task may seem simple, it can be surprisingly difficult for many individuals. His research builds upon groundbreaking studies with rats that earned three scientists the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. These studies revealed specialized neurons that form the basis of the brain’s internal navigation system. Epstein and his colleagues aim to connect these animal-based findings to the differences observed in human navigation abilities. Some people have an exceptional sense of direction, while others frequently get lost even in familiar places. By mapping how the brain processes orientation and spatial awareness, researchers hope to uncover not only the roots of navigation but also the reasons behind variations in this essential skill among individuals.

The Study That Revealed the Brain’s GPS

In the study, researchers collected neuroimaging data while 15 participants completed a taxi-driving task in a virtual reality city. Two distinct brain regions showed a consistent signal related to forward-facing direction as the participants moved around. This neural signal remained stable across different versions of the city with varying visual features. It was also consistent during different phases of the task, such as picking up a passenger or driving them to their destination, and across various locations within the city. Further analysis suggested that these brain regions represent a wide range of facing directions by tracking direction relative to the north-south axis of the environment.

How Cracking the Brain’s GPS Could Change Everything

The researchers believe that these brain regions may function as a neural compass. According to Science Daily, “Losing your sense of direction is something that can happen in neurodegenerative diseases, so continuing to explore the function of these two brain regions may help with early detection or monitoring [the] progression of these diseases.” Epstein also emphasized the importance of understanding how people use both visual and internal cues for navigation, which could have implications for those with impaired vision.

The Puzzle of the Brain’s Spatial Maps

Epstein aims to solve the puzzle of how the brain stores different maps of the world and retrieves them when needed. Although he and his colleagues are still far from fully explaining how the human brain navigates, each experiment provides a new clue. Together, these discoveries are gradually revealing the mysterious system that underlies our ability to find our way. As more pieces are added to the map, the complexity of the brain’s internal GPS continues to unfold, offering exciting possibilities for future research and applications.

Meme Coins Need L2s to Survive—Layer Brett Leads with 100x Potential, Outpacing Dogecoin and Shiba Inu

The Evolution of Meme Coins and the Rise of Layer Brett

The world of meme coins has always been dynamic, driven more by innovation than just hype. In 2021, Shiba Inu made a name for itself as the “Dogecoin Killer” with its introduction of Shibarium, a Layer 2 network. However, as we approach the 2025 bull run, a new player is emerging that could potentially challenge Dogecoin’s dominance.

This project, known as Layer Brett (LBRETT), is gaining attention for its advanced technology and unique rewards structure. Analysts believe that its combination of Ethereum-based Layer 2 infrastructure and high-yield staking could make it the next big thing in the meme coin space.

Layer Brett: A New Era of Meme Coin Innovation

To truly be considered a “Dogecoin dominator” in 2025, a project needs more than just hype—it requires a standout feature. Layer Brett delivers on this front with a powerful mix of live Ethereum Layer 2 foundation and immediate, high-yield staking. Unlike previous projects, its utility isn’t an afterthought.

The platform offers near-instant transactions and fees that are just pennies. This technical backbone is why many enthusiasts are calling it the “Layer 2 that memes deserve,” designed for real-world utility rather than just speculation.

Analysts are already projecting a potential 200x return if adoption follows the roadmap. One market strategist noted, “Layer Brett has the meme power of Dogecoin with the tech backbone of Solana. That’s rare.”

Dogecoin: The Original Challenger Needs to Scale

Dogecoin's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From being a joke about foreign money in 2013 to becoming a globally recognized cryptocurrency with billions in market capitalization, it has had its moments. Its surge to $0.73 in May 2021, fueled by Elon Musk’s tweets and retail excitement, remains a highlight in crypto history.

However, for Dogecoin to sustainably reach new heights, it would need significant new adoption, extended applications, or another wave of speculative interest. While it has the resources to scale, the question remains whether it’s too late.

Dogecoin is widely supported on exchanges, has a loyal community, and remains one of the most transacted meme coins. However, it lacks strong fundamentals beyond its cultural recognition, which limits its long-term growth compared to application-driven projects.

Even if Dogecoin manages to break through its resistance levels, the potential return might only be around 2x from current levels. This pales in comparison to the exponential potential of Layer Brett.

Shiba Inu: The Contender That Kept Giving but Still Fell Short

Shiba Inu entered the scene in 2021 as the “Dogecoin killer.” Since then, the token has struggled to maintain its momentum despite massive gains. Over the past year, SHIB has dropped more than 3%, leaving many holders dealing with losses even in a generally bullish market.

With a $7.6 billion market cap and a supply of 589 trillion tokens, meaningful price appreciation is becoming increasingly difficult for SHIB. Recent developments, such as Shibarium’s scaling efforts and new token burns, haven’t sparked significant bullish movement.

Conclusion: The Future of Meme Coins

Dogecoin and Shiba Inu carry nostalgia and hype, but as barriers tighten and technical challenges arise, holders are beginning to look for stronger foundations. The opportunity is clear: DOGE and SHIB lack the Layer 2 technology needed to scale, and their size makes meaningful progress seem like a distant dream.

In contrast, Layer Brett is still in its early stages, offering an asymmetric risk/reward profile that many meme coin traders find appealing. For those who missed out on Dogecoin in 2020 or Shiba Inu in early 2021, Layer Brett at $0.0047 could be the better choice of the decade.

Key Features of Layer Brett

• Ethereum-Based Layer 2 Infrastructure: Provides fast and low-cost transactions.
• High-Yield Staking: Offers immediate rewards for users.
• Strong Utility Focus: Designed for real-world use, not just speculation.
• Potential for Exponential Growth: Analysts predict up to 200x returns if adoption follows the roadmap.

For those interested in learning more about Layer Brett, you can explore its presale and community channels. The future of meme coins may be looking brighter with projects like Layer Brett leading the charge.