Category: Software

  • Android 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and More

    Android 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and More

    Google has launched the initial public beta version of Android 16 today, just two months after the developer beta was released in November. If you own a Google smartphone from the Pixel 6, 7, 8, or 9 series (starting at $649 on Amazon), you can now register for the beta program and get an early look at the upcoming major operating system update. The beta is also accessible for the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.

    Important Considerations Before Installing

    As is typical with beta software, there may be some bugs present, so it’s advised to make a comprehensive backup of all your data prior to installing the Android 16 update. Additionally, it might not be wise to put this update on your main device or daily use phone. This first beta release mostly brings a handful of new features as Google concentrates on the technical foundations of the new Android version. More substantial updates and key features are expected to be revealed in the weeks leading up to the official release.

    Release Timeline and New Features

    Per Google’s revised schedule, the arrival of Android 16 is planned for the second quarter of 2025, which indicates that the update should be rolled out by the end of June. The first public beta includes live notifications, which are akin to those found on iPhones, and are updated in real-time to display the latest football scores or the estimated arrival time of an Uber, for example.

    In Android 16, applications must function in both portrait and landscape orientations and automatically adapt to the layout of larger screens typical of foldable smartphones and tablets. Applications that show unsightly black bars on the sides are no longer allowed. Android 16 also introduces support for the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, enabling the rendering of nearly lossless 10-bit videos at data rates reaching up to 2 Gbps.

    Google’s new operating system continues to evolve, promising a more refined experience for users in the future.

    Source:
    Link

    Android 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and MoreAndroid 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and More
    Tags: , ,
  • Amap Launches First English Map in China for Foreign Tourists

    Amap Launches First English Map in China for Foreign Tourists

    Amap, a major navigation app in China, has just launched its first map in English aimed at users from abroad. This significant step is designed to make it easier for non-Chinese speakers to navigate around China, marking a notable change for the country’s tourism sector. Presently, this English version of the map is still in the beta testing stage and is only available to foreign users currently in China.

    Limitations of the Beta Phase and Challenges for Users

    Even though the English map has been announced, it’s not fully operational yet. For users with iOS devices, the app contains a language setting option, yet the English choice is still inactive, displaying the message: “The system is not supported yet.” Amap has stated that this feature is in the process of being improved and will gradually be available after the testing phase. Additionally, the versions of the app found on Google Play and the App Store default to Chinese, which adds more difficulty for international users during this initial phase.

    Amap’s Features Beyond Navigation

    Amap offers much more than just maps. With a record of 280 million daily active users during the 2023 Mid-Autumn Festival, the platform provides real-time traffic information, locations for electric vehicle charging stations, the ability to reserve tables at restaurants, and assistance for holiday travel. Its connection with Alibaba’s ecosystem, which includes platforms like Alipay, Fliggy, Ele.me, and Koubei, makes it a comprehensive solution for those searching for local services, food delivery, travel advice, and hotel reservations.

    A New Era for Tourism in China

    The launch of the English map is expected to transform tourism within China. By closing the language gap, Amap aims to make travel easier for foreign tourists, improving their overall journey. This initiative is in line with China’s strategy to welcome international visitors and portrays the country as a more approachable and inviting place for tourists.

    As the English map evolves, Amap is creating a future where language obstacles do not limit exploration in China. With its smooth integration of navigation and local services, the platform is set to become an essential resource for global travelers, changing the way people navigate through China.

    Tags: , ,
  • Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun Unveils New Year Emoticons on WeChat

    Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun Unveils New Year Emoticons on WeChat

    To celebrate the New Year of the Snake, Xiaomi’s CEO, Lei Jun, has introduced a fresh set of WeChat emoticons. This collection includes 16 distinctively crafted emoticons that embody the joyous spirit of the Lunar New Year with lively and whimsical designs. Available for free to all WeChat users, these emoticons continue a tradition that Lei Jun started in 2021 with the Year of the Ox and will continue into 2024 for the Year of the Dragon.

    Emoticons with a Personal Touch

    These emoticons are notable for their humor and relatability, transforming common feelings and cultural allusions into moments that people can easily share. They resonate well with users who are celebrating the New Year, enhancing the festivity of online chats. Beyond their delightful designs, this project showcases Lei Jun’s flair for creative marketing. By engaging with a widely-used platform like WeChat, he forges a direct link with millions of users, strengthening Xiaomi’s image as friendly, innovative, and culturally aware.

    A Smart Marketing Move

    Not just a source of fun, this project is also a smart marketing approach. Lei Jun’s hands-on participation adds a layer of authenticity to the Xiaomi brand, indicating that he comprehends and appreciates the everyday experiences of users. The emoticons create an emotional bond, inviting people to link Xiaomi with happiness, community, and celebration. The limited-edition items, such as the special red envelope cover featuring Lei Jun himself, boost the exclusiveness and charm of the campaign.

    Xiaomi’s Worldwide Expansion Efforts

    Since its inception in 2010, Xiaomi has grown into a formidable global tech giant. By 2022, a significant 49.2% of the firm’s revenue was derived from international markets, showcasing its success beyond China. Xiaomi’s global approach focuses on affordable innovation, providing top-notch, feature-laden products at competitive prices, which is especially attractive in price-sensitive emerging markets.

    The company’s move beyond just smartphones into a broader ecosystem of connected devices, including smart home gadgets and wearables, has further solidified its standing. Xiaomi’s strong branding, extensive online and offline networks, and dedication to localizing products and marketing for various cultures have been crucial to its achievements.

    By consistently investing in cutting-edge technologies like AI, IoT, and 5G, Xiaomi not only addresses current consumer needs but also prepares itself for future challenges. Campaigns like the emoticons from Lei Jun illustrate how the company merges cultural awareness with innovation, fostering loyalty and connection in both local and international markets.

    Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun Unveils New Year Emoticons on WeChat
    Tags: , ,
  • Samsung Revamps Good Lock App for One UI 7 Update

    Samsung Revamps Good Lock App for One UI 7 Update

    Samsung’s One UI 7 is the upcoming skin for Galaxy devices based on Android 15, and it aims to introduce a range of changes that includes both features and design elements. As per a report by Sammy Fans, these design updates are likely to extend to the Good Lock app as well.

    Good Lock Update Details

    According to the report, Samsung has rolled out version 3.0.10.1 of the Good Lock app, which showcases a redesigned interface that aligns with the simplicity and clean aesthetics of One UI 7. A significant transformation is the transition from the previous icon-heavy setup to a more organized list view. Moreover, the bottom navigation bar has been enlarged to fit three buttons: Terrace, Plugins, and You.

    User Experience Changes

    While the new list view should make it easier to browse through the app’s features, Samsung’s choice to replace distinct category separations with color coding might not be the best move. Now, users will have to depend on color indicators to notice changes in categories, which could complicate navigation and require more mental effort.

    New Features Introduced

    In addition to the visual enhancements, this update also brings some interesting new features. One notable addition is “Good Lock Talk,” a search tool that utilizes chatbot technology to assist users in locating specific modules within the app. This will be particularly useful for those who are not well-acquainted with Good Lock’s wide array of functionalities.

    Additionally, users will find a new gift box icon that unlocks a variety of wallpapers. Samsung has also expanded the widget options within the app, introducing two new ones. One is a compact 1×1 widget that centralizes all Good Lock modules in one area. The other is a stylish 4×2 cassette-style widget that enables users to color-code and quickly access up to four modules.

    Release Timeline

    The stable version of One UI 7, along with the updated Good Lock app, is anticipated to launch alongside the Galaxy S25. This indicates that Galaxy users will not have a long wait to experience the new interface and its various customization features.

    Source:
    Link

    Samsung Revamps Good Lock App for One UI 7 Update
    Tags: , ,
  • Trump Signs Executive Order Pausing TikTok Ban Enforcement

    Trump Signs Executive Order Pausing TikTok Ban Enforcement

    On the day he was inaugurated, President Trump signed several Executive Orders. One of these orders puts a temporary hold on enforcing the TikTok ban for a duration of 75 days.

    New Legislation to Protect Data

    The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act was passed with bipartisan support in Congress. Its purpose is to safeguard the personal information of U.S. citizens from being collected by ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, and potentially misused by the Chinese government, which could pose a threat to American security.

    Instructions for Law Enforcement

    During this 75-day period, the US Attorney General has been directed not to enforce the Act. The Department of Justice is barred from taking any measures against entities for not complying with the Act. This includes actions related to distributing or maintaining foreign adversary-controlled applications as defined by the law.

    No Penalties for Violators

    Entities that violate the Act during this time frame are also shielded from penalties. Following this guidance, even after the specified period ends, the Department of Justice will refrain from enforcing the Act or imposing penalties on any entity for actions taken during the designated period or before the signing of this order, particularly from January 19, 2025, until the order was signed.

    As for what President Trump might do beyond the 75 days to protect TikTok, it remains uncertain since any changes to federal laws typically require congressional action. Meanwhile, access to the TikTok app and its services might still be restricted or inconsistent due to compliance with the law by various companies, like the Google Play store.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Philips Hue Smart Home Automation Features Now Available

    Philips Hue Smart Home Automation Features Now Available

    A new automation feature has been introduced in the Philips Hue app. Users first noticed it after updating to version 5.33, but it wasn’t functional at that time. Now, the feature appears to be accessible, at least for those on iOS, likely coinciding with the rollout of version 5.33.1.

    Arming Schedule Automation

    The Arming Schedule Automation enables users to set their Secure system to arm or disarm automatically at selected times. You can find this tool in the Automations section of the app, where it’s typically located near the bottom of the list. Once you choose this feature, you can specify the days and times for your Secure devices to turn on or off. Each week can be customized with up to eight time slots, and you can set multiple schedules, which is handy for creating a holiday mode.

    Upcoming Features

    Signify, the parent company of the Philips Hue brand, has also shared news about additional features coming to the Secure line, which includes devices like the Battery Camera, currently priced at $179.99 on Amazon. This year, users can expect a new sound detection feature for smoke alarms. Additionally, iOS users will receive a new widget to view live video streams from their security cameras. However, it remains unknown when the Philips Hue app version 5.34 will be released and if it will include these new features.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Microsoft Forcefully Upgrading PCs to Windows 11 24H2

    Microsoft Forcefully Upgrading PCs to Windows 11 24H2

    Windows 11 24H2 Update is Rolling Out

    The Windows 11 24H2 update has arrived and it’s headed for your computer whether you want it or not, sorta. Microsoft has changed its update plan for Windows 11 24H2, the newest version of its desktop OS. Since October 2024, this update has been available as an optional upgrade, but starting January 16, 2025, things will be different. Microsoft has started automatically downloading and installing Windows 11 24H2 on compatible devices running Windows 11.

    Who is Affected?

    This mandatory update is only for consumer PCs that are running Windows 11 Home and Pro editions. If you have an enterprise version, you can relax for the time being. Microsoft is also using a phased rollout, meaning not everyone will get the update notification at the same time. They plan to gradually distribute the update to a smaller group of users first, keeping an eye out for bugs and problems before making it available to more people.

    Why This Approach?

    The reason for this strategy appears to be to create a smoother updating process. By taking this careful route, Microsoft can find and fix any big issues that come up prior to a broader launch. This measured rollout also allows them to collect feedback from early users and tackle any compatibility issues that arise.

    If you’re eager to get the update sooner, you can manually check for it. Just go to Settings > Windows Update and click on “Check for updates.” If your device is compatible and Microsoft has enabled it for your account, you will see the option to download and install version 24H2.

    Glitches and Precautions

    Some users have reported glitches with Windows 11 24H2, especially concerning games, but Microsoft claims most of these problems have been sorted out with recent updates. However, the chance for new, unexpected issues still exists with significant updates. If you tend to be cautious, you can utilize the “Pause Updates” feature in Windows Update to postpone the update for up to five weeks. This gives you extra time to research and ensure that your essential software will work with the new version of Windows.

    Tags: , ,
  • iOS 19 Camera App Redesign Leak: What to Expect

    iOS 19 Camera App Redesign Leak: What to Expect

    iOS 18 was revealed back in June at the WWDC 2024 event, which means that iOS 19 is probably about six months away from being announced. A fresh leak has appeared online indicating that iOS 19 might introduce a revamped Camera app.

    Leak from a YouTuber

    A well-known YouTuber, fpt., mentioned that they have come across the new Camera app design. To keep the source safe, the YouTuber showcased the new look using visual representations.

    New Features and Design

    The revamped Camera app is said to have a more streamlined interface with rounded elements. This new version makes it easier to switch between the front and back cameras. It also simplifies the way users can access various features. For instance, instead of going into the settings menu, users can now adjust the resolution and frame rate directly within the Camera app.

    Inspiration from VisionOS

    The design aesthetics of the new Camera app appear to take cues from VisionOS, which is Apple’s operating system for its mixed-reality headset. Based on what was shown of the Camera app, it looks like iOS 19 could undergo a significant overhaul. There’s a chance that iOS 19 will feature more rounded icons and a home screen layout inspired by VisionOS.

    Despite the YouTuber’s strong history of accurate leaks, there hasn’t been any official word from Apple regarding the redesign. The last major redesign of iOS took place with iOS 7, so it’s quite likely that iOS 19 will introduce noteworthy changes after such a long time.

    Source:
    Link

    iOS 19 Camera App Redesign Leak: What to Expect
    Tags: , ,
  • GoFundMe Accepts Crypto Donations for California Wildfire Relief

    GoFundMe Accepts Crypto Donations for California Wildfire Relief

    CNN is reporting that wildfires are still raging in Los Angeles, but efforts for cleanup and recovery have commenced. While many people focus on the celebrities and wealthy individuals who have lost their homes, there is a significant working-class community that is also affected. This includes areas like Pacific Palisades, Altadena, Pasadena, and Hollywood. These residents have faced the loss of their homes and jobs, leaving them reliant on government aid. It’s a tough situation, even in the best of times!

    Donations for Relief

    Blockchain.com is providing its users with the chance to make donations without transaction fees using Bitcoin or other popular cryptocurrencies to Gofundme.org for their Wildfire Relief Fund 2025. As of now, the fundraising efforts have approached nearly $4 million. Nevertheless, AccuWeather, which specializes in meteorology and its related impacts, estimates that the total economic and property damage could be between $250 and $275 billion.

    Important Donation Tips

    When giving to charities, it’s crucial to verify with your payment service or wallet if they provide any fee-free options. Additionally, be sure to review local, state, and federal laws regarding the potential tax benefits of your donations.

    Disclaimer: The information shared here is not intended as advice for personal investment choices. Notebookcheck does not provide guidance on cryptocurrency, NFTs, or any forms of trading, investment, or financial choices.

    Source:
    Link

    GoFundMe Accepts Crypto Donations for California Wildfire Relief
    Tags: , ,
  • One UI 7 Update Release Date for Older Galaxy Devices

    One UI 7 Update Release Date for Older Galaxy Devices

    After much discussion, Samsung has finally rolled out the One UI 7 beta for the Galaxy S24 series in early November, which is later than many expected since it’s close to the stable version launch. The full release is set to come with the Galaxy S25 series next week, meaning that the S25 models will come pre-installed with One UI 7. But what about older devices like the Galaxy S23 series and others?

    Release Schedule for Older Devices

    Samsung has not provided extensive information about the release and rollout of One UI 7 for older devices. The company did confirm that this latest version, based on Android 15, will launch alongside the Galaxy S25 series, a statement made back in October. Nevertheless, some new reports suggest that the rollout for One UI 7 might start in early February, possibly in the first or second week.

    Update Priority

    As usual, the latest high-end models will be the first to receive the new One UI update, followed by mid-range and budget devices. Therefore, the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S22 series, and Galaxy Z Flip 6/Fold 6 are expected to be among the first to enjoy the update.

    Key Features of One UI 7

    One UI 7 is a significant update that introduces numerous enhancements and features. The animations are now considerably smoother, making it easier to switch apps and multitask. The camera app has been simplified for easier navigation, allowing for more convenient switching between different camera modes and zoom levels with just one hand.

    A long-awaited addition is the vertical app drawer, which some users have been anticipating for a long time. Users can still opt for the horizontal layout if they prefer, although it seems likely that most will stick with the new design.

    One UI 7 also introduces the Now Bar, arguably the most important visual improvement in this update. This feature resembles Apple’s Dynamic Island, displaying useful information on the lock screen, including music playback, recording, stopwatches, reminders, and more.

    Furthermore, Samsung has enabled users to separate the notification center from the Quick Settings panel, a feature already found in many Chinese smartphones. Users can now access Quick Settings by swiping down from the right, while notifications can be accessed by swiping down from the left side of the selfie camera.

    The update comes with a redesigned battery indicator and new icons for built-in apps. Users can also select from various adaptive charging options, including an option to limit charging to 80%. Samsung has also introduced new widgets and enhanced Galaxy AI functionalities.

    Recent leaks indicate that Samsung is incorporating Gemini AI into its native applications like Samsung Calendar, Samsung Notes, and Samsung Reminder for streamlined access. There’s plenty to be excited about with the upcoming One UI 7, and I’m looking forward to it.

    One UI 7 Update Release Date for Older Galaxy DevicesOne UI 7 Update Release Date for Older Galaxy Devices
    Tags: , ,