Category: Software

April 22, 2025
iConnectHue Update: Enhanced Switch Editor for Philips Hue
Key Takeaways
1. The iConnectHue app for Philips Hue smart lighting has been updated to version 5.9, introducing enhanced controls for users.
2. A new switch editor organizes actions by category and allows users to change color and brightness of individual lights.
3. The app includes eight Easter-themed lighting scenes available until the end of April.
4. Future updates may include new setup wizards for switch actions and improvements for widgets and shortcuts.
5. A 25% discount on the iConnectHue app is currently available, likely lasting until the end of April.
The iConnectHue application for Philips Hue smart lighting has received an update. This iOS application designed for iPhone and iPad users provides various new controls for those who own Philips Hue smart home devices, including smart timers, switches, and dynamic lighting scenes.
New Features in Version 5.9
The latest version, 5.9 of the iConnectHue app, introduces an improved switch editor, where actions are now organized by category. New switch actions have been added, such as the options to change the color or modify the brightness of individual lights. Additionally, users can reset the fade time using a new reset icon, and the lock screen icon is back after a short removal period. Support for new lights has been included, along with numerous bug fixes and enhancements for stability. There are also eight Easter-themed lighting scenes available, including ‘Eggs nest’, ‘Pastel eggs’, and ‘Crocuses’, which will last until the end of April.
Future Updates and Discounts
According to the release notes for version 5.9 of the iConnectHue app, there are several potential features planned for future updates, such as new setup wizards for switch actions and actions for coming or leaving. If you face any problems with widgets or shortcuts, the company suggests restarting your device to fix the issue. Moreover, there is currently a 25% discount available on the iConnectHue app, which is likely to continue until the end of April.
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Tags: iConnectHue, Philips Hue, smart lights
April 21, 2025
Home Assistant Launches Major App Update with Custom Widgets
Key Takeaways
1. Home Assistant app version 2025.3 introduces Custom Widgets for personalized smart home control.
2. Users can opt-in for beta testing to view device status directly within the custom widgets.
3. The update includes new streaming features for Assist LLM, providing real-time response generation.
4. The Assist voice assistant can now continue recording if additional input is needed after the initial response.
5. There is no confirmed timeline for when these features will be available for Android users.
Home Assistant has just rolled out a fresh update for its application designed for Apple devices. This app works alongside the open-source smart home automation software. The latest version, 2025.3, brings several notable enhancements, echoing some features from Home Assistant 2025.3. It comes after the 2025.2 update released in February, which introduced options for opening a page in an external browser and a quick switch between servers.
Custom Widgets for Enhanced Control
To start with, the Home Assistant app version 2025.3 gives users the ability to create Custom Widgets. You can choose which smart home controls you wish to show and their related options. Additionally, if you opt-in for beta testing, you can experiment with viewing the status of your smart home device directly within the widget. Users can find instructions for setting up a custom widget in the documentation available on the relevant configuration screen.
New Streaming Features
Another exciting addition is the support for Assist LLM streamed responses. This feature allows users to see the answer generation happening in real-time, instead of having to wait for the complete response. Furthermore, the Assist voice assistant will now continue recording if the generated response needs more input from the user. It remains uncertain when or if this update will reach Android smartphone users; the last update for this app happened in early January 2025.
Source:
Link
Tags: Apple devices, Custom Widgets, Home Assistant
April 20, 2025
Microsoft Urges Windows 10 Users to Upgrade to TPM 2.0 PCs
Key Takeaways
1. Windows 10 still holds a significant market share of 54.2%, compared to Windows 11’s 42.69% as of March 2025.
2. Many users are hesitant to upgrade to Windows 11 due to the TPM 2.0 requirement, which older PCs may not meet.
3. Microsoft is actively encouraging users to upgrade their hardware to support Windows 11.
4. A recent blog post by Microsoft highlights the benefits of TPM 2.0, focusing on enhanced data security and software integrity.
5. Microsoft is making it more difficult for users to bypass TPM 2.0 requirements, emphasizing their push for upgrades.
While Windows 11 is slowly becoming more popular, Windows 10 still has a large number of users. According to Statcounter, as of March 2025, Windows 10 holds about 54.2% of the market share, whereas Microsoft’s latest operating system has a share of 42.69%.
Reasons for Hesitation to Upgrade
Many users of Windows 10 are delaying their upgrade to Windows 11 because of the TPM 2.0 requirement, which many older PCs do not fulfill. For a considerable time, Microsoft has been urging these users to upgrade their hardware and switch to the new OS, and it appears the company is still committed to this cause.
Microsoft’s Recent Efforts
Recently, Microsoft released a specific blog post explaining what TPM 2.0 is and its advantages. The post emphasizes that PCs equipped with TPM 2.0 can provide enhanced data security, better integrity of the software and firmware, and advanced security features.
Even if Microsoft doesn’t directly state it, the blog post seems to draw a comparison between the user experience and security features of Windows 10 and Windows 11. As the end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches, it’s reasonable to expect more posts discussing TPM 2.0 and Windows 11 in the future.
Ongoing Push for Upgrade
It’s also important to mention that Microsoft has made previous attempts to persuade users to upgrade through updates on their support pages. For instance, the company removed the official guide for bypassing TPM 2.0, making it harder for users with older computers to install Windows 11.
Source:
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Tags: TPM 2.0, Windows 10, Windows 11
April 18, 2025
Philips Hue Update for Smart Home Users: What’s New?
Key Takeaways
1. Philips Hue launched version 5.40.0 of its app for iOS and Android, following version 5.39.0.
2. The previous update introduced new “Spring Breeze” lighting scenes, including Crocus, Blossom, and The Colors of Nature.
3. Version 5.40.0 includes various bug fixes and stability improvements, but no new features were added.
4. Users are still awaiting the release of the Philips Hue AI assistant for creating smart lighting scenes with voice or text commands.
5. The app version 5.40.0 is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Philips Hue recently launched the 5.40.0 version of its application for users on iOS and Android. This update comes after the 5.39.0 version, which introduced a fresh set of “Spring Breeze” scenes for smart lighting devices, such as the Play Light Bar (currently priced at $32 on Amazon). The new scenes include familiar ones like Crocus and Blossom, alongside an all-day scene called The Colors of Nature.
Update Details
According to the release notes for the Philips Hue app 5.40.0 available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the update includes “various bug fixes and stability improvements.” Sadly, there are no additional specifics about how customers might benefit from these changes. We also explored the app but found no noticeable new features or enhancements.
Looking Ahead
In addition, users are still waiting for the much-anticipated Philips Hue AI assistant to be unveiled. A button that seemed associated with this feature was discovered in version 5.38.1. This expected capability would let users create smart lighting scenes using voice or text commands, but it has not yet been made available. If you’re interested in getting the Philips Hue app version 5.40.0, you can download it from either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
Source:
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Tags: Philips Hue, Smart Lighting, version 5.40.0
April 16, 2025
Google to Reveal Updated Material Design at I/O 2024 in May
Key Takeaways
1. Google may reveal a new version of Material Design at the I/O conference in May 2024.
2. The upcoming update is expected to be more “expressive” and enhance app engagement.
3. A developer’s post indicated features for a “Material3Expressive” theme, suggesting new design options for developers.
4. A redesign of the Settings app was showcased in Android 16 Beta 3, featuring new icon toggles and card format organization.
5. The update might be a minor enhancement to Material Design 3 rather than a complete redesign, with more details anticipated as the event approaches.
Google first launched its Material Design theme with Android 12 in 2021, introducing a dynamic color system that adapts hues from wallpapers throughout the operating system. It appears that a new version might be revealed during the I/O conference this coming May. This upcoming update is expected to offer a more “expressive” design for the OS, although specifics remain limited for now.
Possible Updates Uncovered
The potential enhancements to Material Design were identified by Android specialist Mishaal Rahman, who discovered a developer’s post regarding a “Material3Expressive” theme in the GitHub repository dedicated to Material Components for Android. A Google engineer commented on this, stating, “Material is experimenting with bringing developers ways to make their apps more engaging by introducing more expressive features. Stay tuned for more updates and guidance!” This indicates that an expressive update to Material Design is likely on the horizon, aimed at making applications more engaging, as noted by Rahman.
Redesigns and Features
Regarding the updates this version might introduce, a redesign of the Settings app was showcased in Android 16 Beta 3, featuring toggles that use an X or checkmark icon to show off/on statuses, as well as settings organized in card formats.
Additionally, Rahman discovered a patch from a month ago labeled “DO NOT SUBMIT I/O 2025 Expressive talk code demos” in the AOSP Gerrit, which included some new coding. While the title of this patch has been modified to remove the “I/O 2025” reference, it still contains “‘io_talk,” suggesting that a reveal at May’s Google I/O is likely.
Anticipation for Google I/O
Rahman mentions that this could merely be a minor update to the current Material Design 3 framework rather than a complete redesign. Google I/O is set for May 20, and as the date draws nearer, additional details about what to expect from the event are anticipated to emerge.
Source:
Link
Tags: Android 12, google, Material Design
April 16, 2025
Samsung One UI 8: First Look at Android 16 Updates vs. One UI 7
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung faced issues with the launch of One UI 7 and halted its global distribution.
2. One UI 8 is expected to be based on Android 16 and may release later this year.
3. Early tests show One UI 8 on the Galaxy Z Flip6 and Galaxy Z Fold7, indicating ongoing development.
4. One UI 8 will extend the Now Brief feature to more devices and will include minor changes to apps and the user interface.
5. The update is anticipated to be more of an incremental improvement, similar to One UI 7.1, rather than a major overhaul.
Samsung has had a pretty bumpy beginning with the launch of One UI 7. After expanding the reach of its Android 15 update to additional countries last week, the firm then stopped the global distribution of the update. Soon after, we saw an early glimpse of One UI 8, and we’ve included all the details in a separate post.
Early Insights into One UI 8
Recently, SamMobile shared a detailed video that features Samsung’s upcoming significant update running on the Galaxy Z Flip6 (currently priced at $999 on Amazon). The site claims that One UI 8 will be based on Android 16, which isn’t surprising at all. However, instead of arriving in early 2026, the update is expected to be released later this year due to the adjustments Google has made to its Android release schedule.
New Developments and Features
In related news, it looks like the Galaxy Z Fold7 has been seen using One UI 8 in an early benchmark leak. When comparing to One UI 7, the video indicates that Samsung has chosen to extend the Now Brief feature to devices beyond just the Galaxy S25 series. Moreover, One UI 8 introduces slight modifications to first-party applications and the overall user interface. It’s important to note that Samsung has probably not finalized all the features of One UI 8 just yet. That being said, it seems that One UI 8 is more of an update like One UI 7.1 rather than a significant upgrade from One UI 7.
Conclusion
In summary, while Samsung’s journey with One UI 7 has faced challenges, the anticipation for One UI 8 continues to grow. With new features and improvements on the horizon, users are eager to see how the update will enhance their experience.
Source:
Link
Tags: Galaxy Z Flip6, One UI 8, Samsung
April 15, 2025
Chipolo Pop: Colorful Bluetooth Tracker for Apple & Android
Key Takeaways
1. Dual Compatibility: The Chipolo Pop works with both Apple’s Find My network and Google’s Find My Device network, making it versatile for users of both platforms.
2. Color Choices: Unlike competitors, the Chipolo Pop offers six different color options, allowing users to personalize their trackers.
3. Enhanced Range: The tracker boasts an improved range of 300 feet, compared to 200 feet with previous models, along with an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance.
4. User-Friendly Features: Users can download either the Apple or Google app to set up the tracker, with additional features available through the Chipolo companion app, such as out-of-range alerts (Android only).
5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at $29 each, the Chipolo Pop offers bulk purchase discounts, with options to mix and match colors, and is available for purchase on Chipolo’s website and Amazon starting April 30.
The Chipolo Pop is a fresh Bluetooth Tracker that operates not only with Apple’s Find My network, but also with Google’s Find My Device network. It serves as an alternative to the Pebblebee Universal trackers that came out last October.
Design and Color Options
Unlike the Pebblebee trackers that offers three unique designs, the Chipolo Pop comes in just one design. It resembles the Chipolo One Point, which is compatible solely with Apple’s Find My, and the Chipolo One Spot, which is exclusively for Google’s Find My Device. While the One Point and One Spot are limited to a single color, the Chipolo Pop can be chosen in six different colors, allowing users to select a unique hue for each item they wish to track.
Features and Performance
What sets the Chipolo Pop apart is not only its color options and compatibility with both Apple and Android but also its improved range. Chipolo claims that the new tracker has a range extending from 200 feet with the Chipolo One to an impressive 300 feet. It boasts an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, and it runs on a replaceable CR2032 battery, which can last up to a year before it needs replacement.
How to Use
To get started with the Chipolo Pop, users must download either the Apple Find My app or the Google Find My Device app, depending on their smartphone. Additionally, they can opt for the Chipolo companion app, which offers extra features like out-of-range alerts (available only for Android), the ability to find your phone using the tracker, and the option to set a specific ringtone for each Chipolo tracker owned.
Pricing and Availability
The Chipolo Pop is priced at $29 each, similar to the Moto Tag, but Chipolo provides discounts for bulk purchases. When buying a pack of four Chipolo Pop trackers, instead of the full price of $116, you only pay $89. A pack of six trackers is priced at $121 instead of the usual $174. Customers can also mix and match colors if desired. These trackers are available on Chipolo’s website and on Amazon, with a release date set for April 30.
Source:
Link
Tags: Bluetooth tracker, Chipolo Pop, Find My network
April 14, 2025
One UI 8 Leaks: Similar to One UI 7 with Minor Changes
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung has paused the rollout of the stable Android 15-based One UI 7 update due to bugs affecting Galaxy S24 users.
2. Development of One UI 8 is progressing, aided by the early release of Android 16 by Google.
3. Leaked images of One UI 8 on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 show only minor updates compared to One UI 7, focusing on interface refinements.
4. The ‘Now Brief’ feature will be expanded to more devices with One UI 8, previously limited to the Galaxy S25 series.
5. One UI 8 is expected to launch with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 later this year.
Samsung is currently experiencing challenges with its stable Android 15-based One UI 7 update and has decided to pause the rollout temporarily. In contrast, development for One UI 8 appears to be moving forward, thanks to Google releasing Android 16 earlier than expected. A recent leak has surfaced, showcasing images and screenshots of One UI 8 on the Galaxy Z Fold 6, indicating that the new operating system may not differ significantly from the existing version, offering only minor updates.
Details from the Leak
The leak originates from Smartprix, who reports having access to an early version of One UI 8 installed on a Galaxy Z Fold 6. The pictures reveal an interface that closely resembles One UI 7, with only slight modifications in the icon arrangement within the My Files app. Additionally, the Gallery app seems to have undergone similar optimization. These subtle changes imply that Samsung is focusing on refining One UI 7 rather than introducing major upgrades.
Features and Changes
Smartprix also mentions that the ‘Now Brief’ feature, which was previously exclusive to the Galaxy S25 series, will be available on other devices with One UI 8. Besides this, the initial Android 16-based version of the interface looks very much like One UI 7. Naturally, as time goes on, we can expect further changes to the operating system, and future updates might introduce more significant enhancements.
Update Rollout Issues
Recently, it was reported that Samsung had to stop its One UI 7 rollout due to a bug that was preventing Galaxy S24 users from accessing their devices. Samsung has not provided a comprehensive explanation regarding the issue or a timeline for when the rollout will recommence. On a brighter note, One UI 8 is anticipated to launch alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 later this year.
Source:
Link

Tags: Galaxy Z Fold 6, One UI 8, Samsung
April 14, 2025
Samsung Pauses One UI 7 Update for Galaxy S24 and More Devices
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung has paused the global rollout of One UI 7 for the Galaxy S24 series due to a serious bug found in the update.
2. The suspension of the update has raised concerns among users, with negative feedback reported regarding the Exynos 2400 chip.
3. There is currently no official statement from Samsung about how long the update delay will last.
4. Some Galaxy devices may not receive the One UI 7 update until after Google releases Android 16.
5. Users have reported issues with the lock screen on the Galaxy S24, causing problems with unlocking the device.
Samsung has started to release the stable version of One UI 7 for the Galaxy S24 series just one week ago, specifically in South Korea. However, it appears that the rollout might have come to a standstill as of today, April 14, until further notice. A well-known leaker, Ice Universe, shared on X (previously Twitter) that Samsung has unexpectedly stopped the Android 15 update.
Global Update Suspension
Additionally, there is a post on the Korean Samsung Community page indicating that the company has halted the worldwide distribution of the update across the Galaxy S24 lineup, which includes the S45 Ultra (priced at around $900 on Amazon). The reasons behind this sudden pause are not entirely clear, but Ice Universe points out that a serious bug was found in One UI 7. The forum also shows a number of negative feedback for One UI 7, hinting at a possible issue with the Exynos 2400 chip.
Uncertain Future
Up until now, Samsung has not released any official comments regarding the suspension, leaving the length of this delay in question. The way Samsung has managed the Android 15 update has not been great. The launch of One UI 7 has faced numerous postponements. In fact, some Galaxy devices may not get the update until Google wraps up Android 16. On a positive note, One UI 8 is expected to arrive sooner, with indications that the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 might come pre-installed with Android 16.
User Reports of Issues
Ice Universe has mentioned that the renewed delay is due to reports from multiple Korean users regarding a lock screen problem in the stable version of One UI 7. Specifically, there are occasions when the Galaxy S24 does not unlock as it should.
Source:
Link
Tags: galaxy s24+, One UI 7, Samsung
April 14, 2025
HKMLC Smart Board: Your All-in-One Solution for Learning and Business
Key Takeaways
1. Smart whiteboards, like those from HKMLC, enhance engagement in classrooms and workplaces by replacing traditional equipment with interactive displays.
2. Key features of modern smart whiteboards include 4K UHD visuals, multi-point touch sensitivity, and seamless connectivity with devices and software.
3. HKMLC smart whiteboards integrate multiple tools into one device, simplifying setup and enhancing collaboration for remote and in-person teams.
4. The price range for HKMLC smart whiteboards varies, offering options for different budgets and needs, from basic models to high-performance versions.
5. User feedback highlights improvements in engagement and productivity, making smart whiteboards valuable tools for both educators and business professionals.
Meetings and lectures have changed from boring slides or handwritten notes to something much more engaging. Smart whiteboards are making a big difference by transforming dull sessions into lively places for sharing ideas, whether you’re in a classroom or presenting at work. One of the companies helping to drive this change is HKMLC, which offers all-in-one boards that combine advanced technology with stylish, user-friendly designs.
Why the Excitement?
The excitement comes from the need for tools that match the fast-paced digital world we live in. Teachers want their students to be engaged, and companies are looking for ways to be more efficient. Smart whiteboards provide both of these needs, and the newest models, including the HKMLC smart whiteboard, are impressive with bright visuals, easy integration, and a focus on working together in real-time.
The Importance of Smart Whiteboards Today
Old-fashioned equipment like projectors and dry-erase boards can’t compete with the interactive nature of today’s smart displays. With touchscreens, screen-sharing, and built-in audio-visual features, these devices make lessons and brainstorming sessions feel exciting. Students can engage with hands-on activities, and teams can easily update plans together. This leads to more involvement and less wasted time.
The technology behind these boards is developing quickly. Some displays can automatically adjust their brightness up to 500 nits, ensuring clarity no matter the lighting. Infrared touch technology allows for precise interaction, making it as easy as writing on paper. Plus, compatibility with software like Zoom and Teams, along with legacy VGA systems, ensures that these tools can connect the past with the future.
What Makes HKMLC Smart Whiteboards Unique
Not every smart whiteboard is the same. Here’s what’s trending in 2025:
– Visuals: 4K UHD displays with adaptable brightness suitable for any setting.
– Touch: Multi-point sensitivity allows for up to 20 users to interact simultaneously.
– Connectivity: Features like WIFI 6, Bluetooth, and screen casting to connect various devices.
– All-in-One Design: Built-in cameras, microphones, and speakers reduce clutter.
– Power: High RAM and SSD capacity allows for smooth multitasking.
The HKMLC smart boards successfully combine top-notch hardware (up to 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD) with features like dual operating systems for flexibility in both classrooms and executive offices.
Solutions for Everyday Problems
Great technology doesn’t just look good—it solves common issues. Smart whiteboards simplify setup with quick start options and user-friendly interfaces, making them accessible without needing IT skills. They integrate six different tools (projector, computer, TV, audio, whiteboard, and kiosk) into one device, saving both space and stress. For remote teams, high-quality 4K video and smart microphones enhance communication, while support for multiple devices ensures everyone stays connected.
For example, HKMLC’s Eshare Pro software simplifies screen sharing—no extra cables required.
Price Ranges: Budget vs. Premium
The cost of smartboards varies based on size and features. A 55-inch model with Android 11 and basic specifications (4GB RAM, 32GB SSD) is around $1,500, making it a good choice for smaller environments. For $1,800, you can upgrade to a model with 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD running Android 12, providing more power for demanding tasks.
HKMLC offers various models to suit different needs. The Essential 55 provides basic functionality for $1,589, perfect for those on a budget looking for reliable performance. The Elite 55 features Android 12, 8GB RAM, and 128GB SSD for $1,799, which is better for multitasking.
For larger displays and added features, the Essential Vision 55 has a 48MP camera, costing $1,899, making it great for virtual training sessions. The Elite Dual 75 and Elite Vision 75 are priced above $3,000, with the first supporting dual systems and the latter combining powerful hardware with a 48MP camera, making them ideal for large rooms needing high performance.
User Experiences with HKMLC Smart Whiteboards
Both educators and business professionals have shared positive feedback about HKMLC’s smart whiteboards. One user highlighted how remote classes became more engaging and enjoyable, thanks to the board’s excellent multi-touch capability and bright visuals. A tech project manager remarked that team brainstorming sessions improved dramatically, eliminating the need for endless emails and unclear notes. “It feels like the whole team is in the same room,” said one reviewer. These testimonials show how the whiteboard enhances clarity, engagement, and productivity.
The Future of Smart Whiteboard Technology
The future for smart whiteboards looks promising. Imagine having AI that transcribes meetings or reacts to hand gestures. Brands like HKMLC are already hinting at advancements such as voice recognition and smarter image processing, striving to make whiteboards feel less like screens and more like team members. As hybrid work and learning become more common, these innovations could change what it means to be “present” in meetings.
For now, tools like those from HKMLC strike a balance—powerful, practical, and ready for use. Want to discover more? Explore smart boards at hkmlc.com.
Tags: HKMLC Smart Whiteboards, Interactive Displays, Modern Education Tools