Lilbits: Framework teases new modular hardware, Google Pixel 9a details leaked, and Kickstarter introduces new features

There's always a chance that crowdfunding campaigns will fail to deliver on their promises. But Kickstarter is introducing a few new features that should help potential backers make more informed decisions… as well as allowing backers to break their pledges into four equal payments, which is meant to encourage backers to spend more money on rewards that might be too expensive for them to pay for all at once.

Meanwhile in other recent tech news from around the web, more details about Google's next mid-range smartphone have leaked, Google has announced the dates for its next developer conference, and modular laptop maker Framework has said that it plans to expand beyond laptops. Soon we might find out what that means: the company has scheduled a hardware launch event for February 25th.

Here's a roundup of recent (and upcoming) tech news from around the web.

Framework (2nd Gen) Event is live on February 25th [Framework]

Modular laptop maker Framework is holding an event on Feb 25 to introduce new hardware. The event page includes clues that could suggest a foldable or convertible device and gaming hardware (maybe a handheld?)

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— Liliputing (@liliputing.bsky.social) February 11, 2025 at 11:23 AM

Exclusive: Here is the Google Pixel 9a in Every Color [Android Headlines]

Pixel 9a leak shows a new design that replaces the camera bar found on other recent Pixel phones with a pair of cameras that sit flush with the back of the phone. It's expected to have a 5100 mAh battery, $499 starting price, and come in four color options.

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— Liliputing (@liliputing.bsky.social) February 11, 2025 at 2:41 PM

Save the date: Google I/O is May 20-21, 2025 [Google]

Google IO is scheduled for May 20 and 21, and will likely use its annual developer conference to highlight new and upcoming features in its Android operating system and Gemini AI service, among other things.

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— Liliputing (@liliputing.bsky.social) February 11, 2025 at 5:48 PM

Kickstarter's 2025 Product Roadmap: New Tools for Creators and Backers [Kickstarter]

Kickstarter introduces Pledge Over Time, which lets backers split a pledge into 4 payments and promises to include more details about a creator's track record on project pages, and notify backers when a project fails / a creator fails to follow the rules.

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— Liliputing (@liliputing.bsky.social) February 11, 2025 at 5:55 PM

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