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Tech Roundup: Verizon Imposes Unlock Roadblock, Android 17 Beta Released, and More
In a week filled with tech developments, Verizon implemented new restrictions on unlocking paid-off phones, while Google released the first Android 17 beta for Pixel devices. Additionally, a Southern California beach town will begin using AI to detect bike lane violations, and the Beats Studio Buds Plus are on sale for Presidents Day.
Verizon's new policy, introduced this week, requires a 35-day waiting period for customers who pay off their device installment plans early in order to unlock their phones, according to Ars Technica. This waiting period applies to payments made online, through the Verizon app, over the phone, and at authorized retailers. The only way to get an immediate unlock is apparently to pay off the device plan at a Verizon corporate store. Unlocking a phone allows it to be used on another network, giving customers the freedom to switch carriers.
Meanwhile, Google released the first Android 17 beta for recent Pixel devices, Ars Technica reported. Although the initial release was canceled, the beta is now available for testing system and API changes, with expanded support for adaptive apps being a key feature. Google is expected to announce more feature changes in the coming months.
In other news, the City of Santa Monica will become the first city in the country to use an AI system in municipal parking enforcement vehicles to detect bike lane violations, Ars Technica reported. Starting in April, the city will deploy Hayden AI's scanning technology in seven parking enforcement cars, expanding on similar cameras already mounted on city buses. "The more we can reduce the amount of illegal parking, the safer we can make it for bike riders," said Charley Territo, chief growth officer at Hayden AI.
Finally, for those looking for deals, The Verge reported that the Beats Studio Buds Plus are on sale for 41 percent off for Presidents Day. The earbuds are known for their noise-canceling capabilities. The Verge also published a Valentine's Day gift guide, featuring a collection of creative gift ideas for partners.
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