Category: Software

  • First One UI 7 Beta Update Available for New Samsung Galaxy Phones

    First One UI 7 Beta Update Available for New Samsung Galaxy Phones

    It appears that Samsung is gearing up to showcase One UI 7.0 to the public, which it might abbreviate to One UI 7 when it officially launches. Although the company has yet to announce a release date for the beta versions, there have been many leaks about its Android 15 interface in recent weeks.

    Beta Participation Insights

    This week, a well-known leaker, Ice Universe, suggested that Samsung is set to begin One UI 7 beta participation next week. Now, it looks like the firm has completed the first public beta of One UI 7 for the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which is currently priced at $930 on Amazon. The screenshot below indicates that Samsung has uploaded ‘ZXKB’ to its testing servers.

    Device Compatibility

    Moreover, this software is connected to the SM-S928B model, suggesting that the One UI 7 beta will soon be available for Galaxy S24 Ultra devices in Europe and South Korea. It’s important to note that the screenshot provided only pertains to a single Galaxy S24 device, but the One UI 7 beta is expected to be accessible not only for the Galaxy S24 series but also for several other recent Samsung smartphones. Interestingly, Samsung detailed its preliminary One UI 7 release schedule last month, which we have covered in another article.

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  • Nvidia GeForce Driver 566.15 Supports MS Flight Sim 2024 & STALKER 2

    Nvidia GeForce Driver 566.15 Supports MS Flight Sim 2024 & STALKER 2

    Yesterday, Nvidia made two important software announcements that deserve our attention. While many people might not see driver updates as significant, the new version 566.15 GeForce Game Ready Driver package is certainly something to think about. This update offers day-one support for DLSS 3 with Frame Generation and Super Resolution, not only for the eagerly awaited (and repeatedly delayed) S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl but also for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Additionally, it introduces several one-click optimal settings for a smoother experience. The other news is that the Nvidia app has finally left beta, making it accessible for everyone to try.

    Performance Enhancements

    Thanks to this updated driver, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (you can find the game guide by Sean M. Powell on Amazon for $7.99 in Kindle or $13.99 for paperback) can run at an impressive 87 fps with all settings maxed out at 4K resolution on the GeForce RTX 4070 Super. It’s even better on the top-tier GeForce RTX 4090, where it exceeds 120 fps. Previously, the GeForce RTX 4070 struggled to hit 30 fps without DLSS 3 optimizations, but it now achieves a comfortable 70 fps. Even at 1080p resolution, the GeForce RTX 4060 manages to stay above 60 fps. The game’s release is planned for November 20.

    Exciting New Features

    Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 also benefits from DLSS 3 with Frame Generation and Super Resolution, in addition to DLAA, ray-traced shadows, and Nvidia Reflex. This title is set to be launched on November 19.

    The new driver package brings optimized settings with just one click for six games: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Delta Force, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and Red Dead Redemption.

    Downloading the Update

    As usual, you can download the driver package via the Nvidia app or directly from Nvidia’s official website. Notably, the news about the driver release no longer mentions GeForce Experience, which suggests that app is now considered outdated. The new Nvidia app combines many features from GeForce Experience and RTX Experience, featuring a revamped in-game overlay that makes it easy to access gameplay recording tools, performance monitoring, and various image-enhancing filters, including RTX-exclusive AI filters. It also offers an optional login to claim rewards, among other features.

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  • Windows 11 Removing Calendar and Mail Apps: What You Need to Know

    Windows 11 Removing Calendar and Mail Apps: What You Need to Know

    Microsoft has been really active this year in updating its Windows environment to meet new standards. They have been promoting the use of Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite chipsets with devices like the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 (currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon). At the same time, they are working on improving Windows with better performance for ARM.

    End of an Era for Windows Mail and Calendar

    In a recent blog entry, Microsoft announced that 2024 will be the final year for Windows Mail and Calendar. The support for these services will officially cease on December 31, 2024, which means users won’t be able to send or receive emails starting January 1, 2025.

    Transition to Outlook

    Users can, however, transfer their data to the new Outlook for Windows. Microsoft is banking on this new Outlook being the go-to choice for those who currently rely on Mail and Calendar. Whether users will migrate over is still uncertain, especially since the new Outlook for Windows lacks many features that other email services offer, such as renaming mailboxes.

    Changes for Classic Outlook

    The classic Outlook desktop application that comes with the Office suite is also on the chopping block. For the time being, people can still buy Microsoft Office 2024 without needing to pay a monthly subscription. For more information, you can check out Microsoft’s blog post.

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  • OnePlus 12R OxygenOS 15 Update: Features and Improvements Revealed

    OnePlus 12R OxygenOS 15 Update: Features and Improvements Revealed

    OnePlus has launched the much-awaited OxygenOS 15 update for the OnePlus 12R smartphone across India, Europe, and global markets. The rollout is happening gradually and introduces a variety of new features and enhancements for users.

    Build Versions for Various Regions

    The build versions for the update differ by region:

    • IN Customized Version: CPH2585_15.0.0.200(EX01M001)
    • NA Customized Version: CPH2611_15.0.0.200(EX01M001)
    • EU Customized Version: CPH2609_15.0.0.200(EX01M001)
    • GLO Customized Version: CPH2609_15.0.0.200(EX01M001)

    OxygenOS 15 Update Features

    Animations
    The update includes a cutting-edge graphics engine that significantly enhances rendering and animation performance. This system utilizes advanced parallel processing, which guarantees smooth visuals during multitasking or while using demanding applications.

    With parallel processing, elements like folders, widgets, and components now experience seamless transitions and animations, even amidst interruptions. This ensures consistent swipe behavior across third-party apps, including WebView interfaces, leading to a uniform scrolling experience throughout the system.

    Visual Effects
    The Home screen has been redesigned with new icons, creating a balanced and vibrant appearance for sharper visuals. Many system function icons have also been updated for better visual consistency, contributing to a unified aesthetic experience.

    The rounded corners have undergone refinements to ensure uniformity, with smooth curves applied across all components.

    OnePlus OneTake and Customization Options

    The introduction of flux themes offers a wide array of high-quality choices, allowing users to customize their device with system wallpapers and personal images. Significant customization options are available for the Always-On Display, Lock screen, and Home screen, supporting both flux and classic modes.

    The Lock screen can now blend clock colors, feature glass textures, blurred wallpapers, AI depth effects, and auto-fills. The Home screen also supports glass patterns and blurred wallpapers for a personalized touch. The flux themes provide smooth transition animations enhancing visual continuity across the Always-On Display, Lock screen, and Home screen.

    Fluid Cloud Enhancements
    The updated Fluid Cloud improves app compatibility, now allowing a broader selection of overseas applications like Spotify, Swiggy, and Zomato. This improvement enables real-time synchronization of information for various activities, such as ordering food or listening to music.

    The design emphasizes efficient information visualization, ensuring a balanced display. Users can interact with alerts to expand capsules into detailed cards with just a tap, making it easy to access multiple live activities by swiping down from the status bar.

    Livephotos and Photo Editing Features

    Live photos now allow capturing up to 3 seconds of playback, enabling users to save more moments. The new reversible photo editing capability remembers previous edits, allowing for seamless future adjustments.

    Integration between the Camera and filters has been upgraded, enabling users to modify or remove filters after the fact in the Photos app.

    Floating Window and Split View Functions
    New gestures for Floating Windows have been introduced: swipe down on a notification to open, swipe down again to enlarge, swipe up to close, and swipe sideways to hide. Resizable Split View windows now allow users to drag dividers or tap to adjust the display area.

    Notifications & Quick Settings Improvements
    The new Split mode provides separate access to notifications and Quick Settings with a simple swipe. Quick Settings has been redesigned for a more appealing layout with smoother animations.

    OnePlus Share and Battery Management

    The update includes a new file transfer feature that allows easy sharing with iOS devices via OnePlus Share.

    A new “Charging limit” feature stops the charging process at 80%, which helps prolong battery life and reduce degradation. Additionally, a battery protection reminder activates the Charging limit if the device charges for an extended period.

    Additional Features

    OxygenOS 15 brings new Always-On Display options and Lock screen clock styles for unique visuals. A Home screen clock widget now allows customizable resizing for added versatility.

    An Easter egg in the Calculator appears when you type “1+=,” reflecting OnePlus’s philosophy of “Never Settle.” New wallpapers are included to give your device a signature OnePlus flair, along with unique app icons designed specifically for OxygenOS.

    Safety and Privacy Enhancements

    The new app security control feature blocks unwanted pop-ups and background processes, enhancing both system security and battery efficiency.

    The Private Safe has been optimized with categorized views for images, videos, and documents, making data management simpler. A new Home screen entry for hidden apps allows for quick access by tapping the folder and entering your privacy password.

    How to Update Your Device

    To upgrade your OnePlus 12R to OxygenOS 15, simply navigate to the Settings menu and check for updates. Keep in mind that the rollout is happening in stages, so it may take time to reach all devices.

    Important Reminder

    Before proceeding with the update, it is highly advised to back up important data to prevent any potential loss.

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  • WhatsApp Beta Update Causes Surprising Green Screen Issue

    WhatsApp Beta Update Causes Surprising Green Screen Issue

    The WhatsApp beta channel has recently released version 2.24.24.5. This update introduces a "Draft" label in the chat list for messages that are left unsent. Additionally, it aims to enhance performance and address some bugs that were previously present. Nevertheless, as users testing the beta version report, a new bug has appeared that causes the screen to turn green when opening a chat.

    Green Screen Issue Explained

    Luckily, this is not the same green screen problem that would necessitate display replacement or repair. Instead, it simply shows a solid green color while entering a chat and disappears once you exit WhatsApp. However, this isn’t the only concern affecting the new beta version.

    Startup Crashes Reported

    Users are also mentioning that the beta app crashes when starting up, rendering WhatsApp unusable. Naturally, this sort of thing isn’t surprising because beta versions of applications typically lack the stability of their public release versions.

    For those testers encountering these problems, the best course of action is to revert back to the stable build, which seems to be free from the green screen and startup crash issues. It’s important to understand that WhatsApp beta versions are released as app bundles rather than regular APKs, and due to certain restrictions in Android, rolling back to an older version isn’t straightforward.

    Recommended Solution

    Thus, the ideal solution is to uninstall the beta version and install the current stable version of WhatsApp (2.24.22.79). You can find the installer on APKMirror, a trusted source for Android applications. Given that many users are reporting these problems, it is likely that the developers will soon provide a fix.

    Source: Android Police, Android Authority

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  • TikTok Offices in Canada Shut Down Over Security Concerns

    TikTok Offices in Canada Shut Down Over Security Concerns

    Last year, the Canadian government began examining the expansion strategy of ByteDance Ltd., the firm responsible for TikTok, which intended to establish a local branch named "TikTok Technology Canada Inc." Unfortunately, this initiative was halted as the government opted to eliminate TikTok’s business operations in the nation, which also results in the loss of hundreds of local jobs. On a positive note, Canadians can continue to access the website and utilize the mobile applications, at least for now.

    Government Statement

    In a statement from Canadian Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, he mentioned, "The decision was based on the information and evidence collected over the course of the review and on the advice of Canada’s security and intelligence community and other government partners." Clearly, this does not prevent TikTok from challenging this ruling in court, hoping for a more favorable outcome.

    App Accessibility

    While everyday users can access TikTok without restrictions, the app has been prohibited on devices issued by the government. Officials have described it as having "an unacceptable level of risk to privacy and security," which was the reasoning behind this ban.

    Ongoing Legal Battles in the US

    In the United States, the Chinese social media company is currently contesting a law from the Biden administration that mandates ByteDance to divest TikTok by January 19th or face a potential ban. U.S. officials assert that the Chinese ownership of the company poses a risk to national security.

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  • Okta Login Vulnerability Bypasses Password Checks

    Okta Login Vulnerability Bypasses Password Checks

    Okta, a top name in single sign-on services and identity management, announced at the end of October that it had resolved a bug in its system which posed a serious security risk. The flaw allowed accounts with usernames longer than 52 characters to bypass password verification. This meant that malicious users might access these accounts simply by entering the correct username, while providing an incorrect or no password at all. This scenario assumes that the account relies solely on a password for its security.

    Bug Discovery and Fix

    The issue surfaced after an update was released around late July 2024, and it took about three months for the problem to be recognized and addressed. It wasn’t widely known, making it harder to detect. Most usernames are shorter than 52 characters, although some longer usernames, like those combining a person’s first and last name with their company email domain, could exceed this limit. The vulnerability depended on whether multi-factor authentication was enabled and the sequence of events; logins were authenticated using a cached encrypted key from a prior successful login. If a login attempt reached the main Okta authentication server before this cache loaded, it could be blocked.

    Implications of the Vulnerability

    Despite the limited conditions needed for the exploit to work, the potential for disruption wasn’t huge. However, the fact that such a vulnerability occurred at a company like Okta highlights the ongoing security challenges in the digital landscape. In response, Okta urged all users, whether impacted or not, to implement multi-factor authentication alongside their current security measures. Many login platforms require a form of secondary verification when users create and confirm their accounts, which makes incidents like this more of a warning than a disaster for most users.

    UFD Tech | Okta

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  • OnePlus 12 Gets Global Stable Update for Android 15 and OxygenOS 15

    OnePlus 12 Gets Global Stable Update for Android 15 and OxygenOS 15

    OnePlus has shared the news of a global launch for OxygenOS 15, now happening a week earlier than expected. The update is currently rolling out in India, North America, Europe, and other global areas for the OnePlus 12 smartphone. A phased rollout is scheduled for the rest of this week.

    Regional Build Versions

    Here are the build versions for various regions:

    • India: CPH2573_15.0.0.206(EX01)
    • North America: CPH2583_15.0.0.205(EX01)
    • Europe/Global: CPH2581_15.0.0.204(EX01)

    Changelog Highlights

    Animations
    The new system graphics engine boosts rendering and animation performance with advanced parallel processing, ensuring smooth visuals even when multitasking or using demanding apps. This parallel processing also applies to widgets, components, and folders, allowing for seamless transitions and smooth animations, even with continuous interruptions.

    Visual Effects
    The Home screen has been redesigned with new icons that offer a harmonious aesthetic with improved proportions and vibrant colors for better visuals. The icons for various system functions have been updated for visual consistency, promoting a unified design throughout the system. Rounded corner designs have been fine-tuned for uniformity, with even, flowing curves across all elements.

    Customization and Themes

    The fresh flux themes present an extensive array of high-quality options, allowing users to customize their experience with system wallpapers and personal photos. Extensive features for customizing the Always-On Display, Lock screen, and Home screen are included. Both flux and classic modes are available for the Always-On Display. The Lock screen allows blending clock colors, glass textures, blurred wallpapers, AI depth effects, and more. The Home screen includes glass patterns and blurred wallpapers as well.

    Fluid Cloud
    The upgraded Fluid Cloud now boasts improved app compatibility, with support for a wider selection of overseas apps like Spotify, Swiggy, and Zomato, facilitating real-time information synchronization in various situations like food ordering and music streaming. The design emphasizes efficient information display, with a central positioning for a well-balanced appearance. Alert interactions allow capsule expansions into detailed cards with a tap, providing quick access to multiple live activities by swiping in the status bar. The new animation system introduces fluid, elastic designs with real-time dynamic blurring effects, making card visuals smoother.

    Editing Features

    The globally reversible photo editing feature retains previous edit settings for smooth subsequent tweaks, ensuring an uninterrupted creative workflow.

    Floating Window and Split View
    New gestures for the Floating Window include swiping down on a notification banner to open a window, swiping down again to enlarge, swiping up to close, and swiping sideways to hide. Resizable Split View windows can be adjusted by dragging the divider or tapping to extend the display area.

    Notification Improvements

    The new Split mode allows separate access to the notification drawer (top-left swipe) and Quick Settings (top-right swipe), with horizontal swipes enabling easy switching. The Quick Settings interface has been revamped for a more visually attractive layout, featuring smoother animations.

    Battery and Charging Enhancements
    A new “Charging limit” feature stops charging at 80% to help prolong battery life and reduce degradation. Additionally, a battery protection reminder will activate this feature if the device stays charging for too long.

    Audio and More
    Holo Audio has been improved for online calls and meetings, providing richer sound experiences. Exclusive Always-On Displays and Lock screen clock styles have been added for a unique look, while a new Home screen clock widget allows for customizable resizing. A classic easter egg has been included in the Calculator, showing up when you type “1+=”, reflecting OnePlus’s “Never Settle” philosophy. New wallpapers are also available to give your device a signature OnePlus style.

    Safety and Privacy Features

    A consolidated hub for personal safety features combines emergency calls, disaster alerts, security checks, and quick access to first aid information. The Private Safe now has categorized views for images, videos, and documents, making data organization easier. A new shortcut on the Home screen for hidden apps offers quick access by tapping the folder and entering your privacy password.

    Wi-Fi Optimization
    The multi-network experience has been enhanced for smoother, more efficient transitions between networks.

    Important Notes

    To maintain the signature fast and smooth experience OnePlus is known for, some AI features are still being tested and will gradually be integrated by the end of this month. For those wanting to revert to a previous version of OxygenOS, OnePlus provides detailed rollback instructions, which involve downloading a specific package and following the steps outlined. Remember, the rollback process will erase all device data, so backing up important information is crucial. For more information, visit the OnePlus Community forum.

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  • South Korea Fines Meta $15 Million for User Data Collection

    South Korea Fines Meta $15 Million for User Data Collection

    South Korean authorities, specifically the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC), have slapped Meta with a hefty fine of 21.6 billion won, equivalent to about $15 million, due to the unlawful gathering and sharing of user data with advertisers.

    Findings from the Investigation

    According to an Associated Press report, the investigation that lasted four years revealed that Meta had collected sensitive information from nearly 980,000 users without their consent. This data included delicate details like users’ religious beliefs, political opinions, and information about same-sex relationships.

    PIPC highlighted that the data collection occurred between July 2018 and March 2022, with Meta sharing this information with around 4,000 advertisers without any authorization. South Korea’s privacy laws provide strong safeguards for personal data relating to individual beliefs, political opinions, and sexual orientation, and forbid companies from using or processing such information without explicit consent from the user.

    Methods of Data Collection

    The commission noted that Meta obtained this sensitive data through the analysis of user interactions on their platform and the advertisements that users engaged with.

    Lee Eun Jung, the head of the investigation, stated to AP, “Even though Meta gathered this sensitive information for personalized services, their data policy only provided vague references to such usage and did not secure specific consent from the users.”

    Security Concerns

    Moreover, PIPC pointed out that Meta did not incorporate basic security measures on the platform. This negligence allowed hackers to exploit inactive pages to create fake identities and request password resets for other users on Facebook.

    AP, Image Source

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  • Xiaomi HyperOS 2: 5 Must-Know Features Before Global Launch

    Xiaomi HyperOS 2: 5 Must-Know Features Before Global Launch

    Xiaomi has launched its latest operating system, HyperOS 2, marking a major advancement in creating an AI-driven ecosystem. Introduced alongside the Xiaomi 15 series, HyperOS 2 transforms how devices connect and enhance user interaction through three main technologies: HyperCore, HyperConnect, and HyperAI. Let’s take a closer look at the top five features that set HyperOS 2 apart in the market.

    HyperCore

    The core of HyperOS 2 is HyperCore, a newly developed kernel by Xiaomi aimed at maximizing performance. With more than 25,000 optimization scenarios, HyperCore significantly cuts CPU idle time by 19%, reduces memory latency, and boosts graphics performance. The microarchitecture scheduler of HyperCore breaks down task cycles right at the chip level, allowing for smoother operation and quicker response times.

    Advanced Memory and Storage

    In addition, Xiaomi has rolled out dynamic memory and Storage 2.0, which can decrease app launch delays by nearly 54.9% on smartphones and 15% on tablets. Gamers will benefit from HyperCore as well, which decreases power usage and frame drops by upwards of 13%, resulting in a seamless gaming experience.

    Smooth User Experience

    These enhancements lead to an incredibly smooth experience for users across devices, featuring quicker load times, reduced lag, and better stability, even when using demanding applications.

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