Category: All News

  • Samsung follows Apple in blocking users from sideloading apps

    Samsung follows Apple in blocking users from sideloading apps

    Samsung shared a post earlier this month saying “Protect your Galaxy device with the Auto Blocker feature”. Samsung’s OneUI 6 based on Android 14 comes with a security feature called Auto Blocker, which is located in the Security and Privacy settings. It reportedly protects your Galaxy device by preventing the installation of applications from unauthorized sources. The Auto Blocker feature is enabled by default; however, you can disable it during the setup process.

    Strengthening Phone Security

    Installing apps from third-party sources can sometimes pose risks to the device’s security. While pre-installed app stores are not flawless, they implement various safety checks to prevent malicious apps from being distributed.

    Notably, Android already blocks sideloading by default at an operating system level. The permission most third-party app stores use, REQUEST_INSTALL_PACKAGES, has to be explicitly granted by the user.

    Enhanced Blocking with Auto Blocker

    Samsung’s Auto Blocker feature entirely blocks the installation of apps from unauthorized sources, even if the source has been granted the REQUEST_INSTALL_PACKAGES permission.

    Disabling Auto Blocker

    Users of devices that receive the feature through the OneUI 6.1.1 update can disable it by navigating to Settings > Security and Privacy > Auto Blocker. After this, users will need to permit an app to sideload another, which aligns with Android’s default sideloading behavior. Samsung devices running on One UI 6.1.1 reportedly include the past few generations of Galaxy S series and Z series devices so far.

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  • Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Gets Major HyperOS Update

    Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Gets Major HyperOS Update

    Xiaomi has introduced a major update for its widely-used Smart Band 8, upgrading the firmware to HyperOS version 1.6.222 in China. This update brings numerous new features and enhancements, primarily aimed at boosting user productivity and personalization.

    Key Additions in the Update

    The standout feature in this update is the inclusion of focus notifications. Previously available on the Smart Band 8 Pro, this feature allows users to prioritize notifications from specific apps, ensuring only the most crucial information is displayed on their wrist. This is particularly useful for those who receive a high volume of notifications, as it helps reduce distractions and improve task focus.

    Moreover, the update introduces support for paid watch faces, further expanding personalization options. Users can now select from a broader range of designs and styles to suit their tastes. While this may be seen as a step towards monetization, it also provides a revenue stream for developers and designers, potentially leading to a more diverse and creative selection of watch faces in the future.

    Additional Improvements

    Besides these significant features, the update also addresses several known issues, enhancing the device’s overall stability and performance. The rollout of this update is gradual, so users who haven’t received it yet should expect it in the coming days.

    This isn’t the first substantial update for the Smart Band 8. In August of last year, a firmware update (version 1.3.176) introduced several key features, such as Smart Do Not Disturb mode, new watch faces, and support for bus cards in specific regions. It also improved the device’s fitness tracking with a new Frisbee motion algorithm and somatosensory game vibration feedback.

    Launched in April of last year, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has already earned acclaim for its impressive features, including a vibrant 1.62-inch AMOLED display, sleek racetrack design, and extensive health and fitness tracking capabilities.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Ring Compatible with All Android Phones: Report

    Samsung Galaxy Ring Compatible with All Android Phones: Report

    Samsung’s recently unveiled Galaxy Ring smart ring has been making waves in the tech world, and recent reports suggest it might be even more versatile than initially thought.

    While Samsung initially claimed the ring would only be compatible with its own Galaxy smartphones, it seems that any Android phone running Android 11 or higher with at least 1.5GB of memory can now join in on the fun.

    Broader Compatibility

    This exciting development was confirmed by YouTuber M. Brandon Lee, who successfully paired the Galaxy Ring with a Nothing phone. The process is relatively simple, requiring users to download the Galaxy Wearable app from the Google Play Store and follow the setup instructions.

    The app will then prompt users to install Samsung Health and SmartThings, ensuring a seamless integration with the Galaxy Ring.

    While this newfound compatibility is great news for Android users, it’s important to note that some features, such as Find My Ring, Energy Score, Wellness Tips, and Galaxy AI, remain exclusive to Samsung Galaxy devices.

    Core Functionality

    Nonetheless, the core functionality of the Galaxy Ring, including its health-tracking capabilities and notifications, should work flawlessly on non-Samsung Android phones.

    Samsung has since updated its official website to reflect this broader compatibility, indicating that the company is open to expanding the reach of its innovative wearable. However, iOS users will have to wait a bit longer, as the Galaxy Ring currently does not support iPhones.

    Market Competition

    The smart ring market is experiencing a surge in competition with the entry of Samsung’s Galaxy Ring, challenging Oura’s dominance in the segment. Oura is responding with its upcoming Oura Ring 4, recently spotted in certification documents. The documents reveal a new design featuring a raised middle section and possible design variations. While details on additional sensors are scarce, the ring is expected to be available in sizes from 7 to 15, and its launch seems imminent with certifications in progress.

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  • Meta Launches Llama 3.1: Open-source Model with 128K Token Context

    Meta Launches Llama 3.1: Open-source Model with 128K Token Context

    Meta introduced its latest open-source language model, Llama 3.1, on July 23rd. This version features numerous advancements, such as improved inference capabilities, expanded multilingual support, and an increased context length of 128K tokens.

    Comparable to Leading Models

    The highlight is the flagship 405B parameter Llama 3.1-405B. Meta claims this robust model matches the performance of top closed-source models in tasks like common-sense reasoning, guidance, mathematics, tool usage, and multilingual translation. Its capabilities are compared to GPT-4, GPT-4o, and Claude 3.5 Sonnet.

    Versatile Model Options

    Enhancements are not limited to the top-tier model. The 8B and 70B parameter versions of Llama 3.1 are also noted to be very competitive with other open-source and closed-source models of similar sizes.

    Availability and Support

    For those keen to explore, Llama 3.1 can now be downloaded from Meta’s official website and Hugging Face. Furthermore, over 25 major partners, including cloud services like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, as well as hardware manufacturers such as Nvidia and Dell, are confirmed to support the new model.

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  • ESR Geo Wallet Sold Out on Kickstarter, Includes Apple ‘Find My’

    ESR Geo Wallet Sold Out on Kickstarter, Includes Apple ‘Find My’

    ESR’s Geo Wallet, the world’s first wallet with integrated “Find My” functionality, has initiated a crowdfunding campaign. Unlike conventional methods that need separate trackers, Geo Wallet seamlessly incorporates Apple’s tracking technology, enabling real-time location tracking via the Find My app.

    Advanced Security Features

    The wallet also features RFID anti-theft protection for enhanced security. This bi-fold wallet comes in seven stylish colors and includes essential features like card slots and a cash compartment. The RFID protection adds an extra layer of security against unauthorized scans.

    Long-Lasting Battery and Pricing

    Geo Wallet is equipped with a durable, built-in battery that lasts up to five months and can be fully charged in two hours. The Kickstarter campaign offers several pricing options, although the early bird discount of $38 has already been claimed. Production is scheduled to start in August, with shipments expected to commence in January 2025.

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  • iQOO Z9s with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Spotted on Geekbench

    iQOO Z9s with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Spotted on Geekbench

    iQOO is gearing up for the launch of its iQOO Z9s series of smartphones in India. The brand has confirmed the release for August but has remained tight-lipped about other specifics. Recently, a new Vivo device with the model number I2035 was added to the Geekbench benchmarking database. This device, likely part of the upcoming iQOO Z9s series, has also been seen in the Camera FV5 and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) databases.

    Alleged iQOO Z9s Geekbench Listing

    According to the Geekbench listing for the i2305, the smartphone is powered by a Qualcomm chip featuring four CPU cores clocked at 1.80GHz, three CPU cores at 2.40Hz, and a prime CPU core running at 2.63GHz. The source code for the listing indicates that the device is equipped with an Adreno 720 GPU, suggesting that it is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3.

    Earlier this year, iQOO launched the iQOO Z9 in China with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset. This model is different from the iQOO Z9 available in India, which comes with a Dimensity 7200 chipset. There is speculation that the i2305 could be a rebranded version of the China variant of the iQOO Z9.

    Specifications and Features

    The Geekbench listing also reveals that the i2305 features 12 GB of RAM and runs on Android 14. The device scored 1137 points in the single-core test and 3044 points in the multi-core test. Below is a new poster showcasing the white variant of the device.

    The China variant of the iQOO Z9 boasts a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, paired with up to 12 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and up to 512 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. The device is fueled by a 6,000mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging. Camera-wise, it features a 16-megapixel front camera and a dual-camera setup on the back, consisting of a 50-megapixel and a 2-megapixel sensor.

    iQOO Z9s with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Spotted on Geekbench
    iQOO Z9s with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Spotted on Geekbench
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  • Garmin Launches Approach Z30 Golf Rangefinder with 6x Zoom

    Garmin Launches Approach Z30 Golf Rangefinder with 6x Zoom

    Garmin has introduced its latest golf accessory, the Approach Z30 laser rangefinder, to the Chinese market. This innovative device aims to improve golfers’ performance by delivering precise distance measurements and integrating smoothly with Garmin’s ecosystem.

    Garmin Approach Z30 Specifications

    The Approach Z30 features rapid flag lock technology, which can precisely measure the distance to the flagpole in just one second. With a 400-yard range and 6x magnification, golfers can assess distances on the course with confidence. Additionally, the device provides visual and vibration alerts for exact flagpole locking.

    Designed with golfers in mind, the Approach Z30 has an IPX7 waterproof rating, ensuring it can withstand various weather conditions. Its magnetic design allows for easy attachment to golf carts, and the replaceable battery offers up to a year of use on a single charge.

    Advanced Features

    Beyond basic distance measurement, the Approach Z30 includes advanced features. It can calculate slope-compensated distance by using data from a paired smartwatch, such as latitude, barometric pressure, and wind speed. This feature gives golfers more precise yardage adjustments for uphill or downhill shots.

    The device can be paired with compatible Garmin smartwatches and the Garmin Golf app, offering additional features like front and back green distances, PlaysLike distance (adjusted for elevation changes), and a visual representation of the laser measurement arc on the watch.

    The Approach Z30 is priced at 3280 Yuan ($450), though Garmin has not yet specified a release date.

    It remains to be seen how the Approach Z30 will perform in the competitive golf rangefinder market. However, given Garmin’s reputation for quality and innovation, the Z30 is likely to garner interest from both amateur and professional golfers.

    Garmin Launches Approach Z30 Golf Rangefinder with 6x Zoom

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  • Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Flip: Launch Timeframe Leaked

    Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Flip: Launch Timeframe Leaked

    The era of foldable phones largely left Apple on the sidelines initially, leading many enthusiasts to speculate on whether a foldable iPhone would ever see the light of day. Now, a fresh report hints that 2026 might be the year Apple enters the foldable arena.

    Instead of adopting the book-style format popular among many Android devices, Apple’s debut foldable is rumored to be a flip phone, akin to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip line. This aligns with previous reports indicating Apple had been experimenting with a clamshell design. The 2026 release date is suggested based on Apple’s standard two-year development cycle for new iPhone models.

    Display Details

    Interestingly, the foldable display may come from Samsung Display, a known competitor that already supplies OLED panels for current iPhones. When unfolded, this new iPhone is expected to have dimensions similar to current iPhones, likely referring to length and width rather than thickness. This means users can anticipate a more expansive display that remains pocket-friendly when closed.

    Rumor Caution

    It’s worth noting that speculation about Apple’s foldable plans has been circulating for years. Although this report provides a potential timeline and design concept, it’s prudent to stay skeptical. Apple has a reputation for meticulously refining technologies before introducing them to its products.

    The foldable phone market is still in flux, grappling with issues like durability, app optimization, and user experience. Will Apple hold off until these challenges are better addressed? Only time will provide the answer.

    For now, Android enthusiasts have a broader array of foldable options, while Apple loyalists will need to wait a bit longer for Cupertino’s innovation in mobile form factors.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Leak: Big GPU Upgrades, Modest CPU Gains

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Leak: Big GPU Upgrades, Modest CPU Gains

    Qualcomm is preparing to roll out its latest high-end mobile processor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. This new version is anticipated to bring notable enhancements in both performance and efficiency, attributed to the custom-designed Oryon cores and TSMC’s second-generation 3nm manufacturing process.

    GPU Performance

    A recent leak presents a mixed outlook — the Adreno 750 GPU in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is expected to deliver significant performance-per-watt improvements, while the CPU performance improvements seem to be more modest.

    User @negativeonehero on X (formerly Twitter) revealed that internal tests of the 8 Gen 4’s GPU show performance levels comparable to the MediaTek Dimensity 9300’s GPU but at half the power consumption. This efficiency could result in extended battery life and cooler phones during high-demand activities such as gaming.

    CPU Performance

    On the CPU front, the projections are less encouraging. The leak indicates that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, featuring custom Oryon cores, achieves a multi-core score of approximately 7,300 at just 8W. This performance is comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and still lags behind Apple’s A17 Pro in the iPhone 15 Pro. Alarmingly, the tipster suggests that the 8 Gen 4’s CPU power efficiency will only improve by a single-digit percentage compared to its predecessor.

    As a result, consumers who prioritize CPU performance may want to wait for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5.

    Future Expectations

    However, it’s essential to remember that Qualcomm’s custom cores in the Snapdragon X Elite for Windows laptops have shown impressive results, rivaling Apple’s M3 in benchmarks despite initial doubts. Therefore, similar outcomes are expected from the forthcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.

    Balancing heat management, power consumption, and raw performance within the confines of a smartphone remains a significant challenge. Ultimately, the true potential of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be revealed through independent testing and real-world use.

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  • Redmi Pad Pro 5G & SE 4G Launch in India on July 29: What to Expect?

    Redmi Pad Pro 5G & SE 4G Launch in India on July 29: What to Expect?

    Xiaomi’s Redmi sub-brand is gearing up to make an impact in the Indian tablet market with the launch of the Redmi Pad SE 4G and Redmi Pad Pro 5G on July 29. These two tablets are designed for different market segments but both promise attractive features at competitive prices. Let’s explore what these new tablets have to offer:

    Redmi Pad SE 4G

    The Redmi Pad SE 4G is the follow-up to last year’s Wi-Fi-only model. The most significant upgrade is the addition of 4G connectivity, enhancing its utility for users who need internet access on the go. Although the complete specifications have not been officially announced, leaks indicate that the tablet will feature an 8.7-inch HD (1340 x 800 pixels) display with a 90Hz refresh rate, a MediaTek Helio G99 processor, and a 6650mAh battery with 18W charging.

    In terms of design, the Redmi Pad SE 4G is expected to have a boxy shape with thick bezels, which is typical for budget-friendly tablets. It is expected to come with dual speakers that support Dolby Atmos for an improved audio experience. Additionally, it will likely include a 3.5mm headphone jack.

    For photography, the tablet is expected to have an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, suitable for basic photos and videos. It will reportedly offer 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2TB via a microSD card. According to the official teaser, the Redmi Pad SE 4G will be available in green and blue colors.

    Redmi Pad Pro 5G

    The Redmi Pad Pro 5G aims at the premium segment, emphasizing performance and 5G connectivity. It is the 5G version of the Redmi Pad Pro already launched in China. The tablet will sport a larger 12.1-inch 2.5K LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support. Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC, it promises smooth multitasking and gaming performance.

    Design-wise, the Redmi Pad Pro 5G is expected to be more premium, featuring slimmer bezels and a metal body. It will come with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. The tablet will also feature quad speakers with Dolby Atmos support, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming.

    For cameras, it will have an 8MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera, suitable for video calls and casual photography. The tablet will be powered by a substantial 10,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging support, ensuring long-lasting usage on a single charge.

    Launch and Availability

    Both the Redmi Pad SE 4G and Redmi Pad Pro 5G are set to launch in India on July 29th. Pricing has not yet been disclosed, but given Redmi’s history of offering competitive prices, these tablets are expected to be reasonably priced. The Redmi Pad SE 4G will likely be the more affordable option, while the Redmi Pad Pro 5G will cater to users seeking a premium tablet experience.

    Redmi Pad Pro 5G & SE 4G Launch in India on July 29: What to Expect?
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