Category: Software

  • One UI 8.0 Beta Launches for Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6

    One UI 8.0 Beta Launches for Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is speeding up the release of One UI 8, based on Android 16, to address delays faced with the One UI 7 update.
    2. The beta program for One UI 8 has been expanded to include Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6, with a broader rollout expected in regions like the UK, USA, and India.
    3. One UI 8 beta introduces significant changes, including a revamped interface and enhanced software functionalities for foldable devices.
    4. The Z Flip 6 will receive exclusive features such as a 90:10 split-screen option for multitasking and an updated Samsung Internet browser.
    5. Users interested in the beta can enroll via the Samsung Members app, but should be aware of potential bugs and stability issues.

    This year, Samsung is aiming to make up for the lengthy wait that its users faced for the One UI 7 update. The company is dedicated to launching the Android 16-based One UI 8 firmware more quickly, and to achieve this, it has broadened the beta program to include the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. Previously, Samsung had done the same for the Galaxy S24 series, with more devices anticipated to follow in the upcoming weeks.

    Beta Program Expansion

    Currently, the beta for Samsung’s 2024 foldable phones is active in South Korea, but a more extensive rollout is anticipated shortly in regions such as the UK, USA, and India. This update introduces several new features, enhancements, and tweaks to the overall user experience.

    Key Changes in One UI 8

    The One UI 8 beta comes with significant modifications for the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. Users of these smartphones can look forward to a revamped interface and enhanced core software functionalities. For instance, Samsung has more closely integrated Secure Folder with Android’s native Private Space feature. Moreover, Samsung DeX is now built upon the native Desktop Mode of Android 16.

    Exclusive Features for Z Flip 6

    Among other improvements are a redesigned user experience for Quick Share and improved management of alarms, calendars, and reminders. Additionally, the Z Flip 6 is set to receive unique features like a 90:10 split-screen option for enhanced multitasking, along with an updated version of the Samsung Internet browser.

    If you own a Galaxy Z Fold 6 or Z Flip 6 and are interested in testing the beta, you can enroll through the banner in the Samsung Members app. Just keep in mind that this is a beta version, so you may encounter some bugs and stability issues.

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  • Garmin Update Fixes Random Reboots for Multiple Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Fixes Random Reboots for Multiple Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is releasing a significant software update (Public Beta Version 12.64) for the Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches after initial delays.
    2. The new beta update includes multiple bug fixes compared to the previous version (12.60).
    3. Key improvements focus on stability, addressing unexpected reboots during sleep mode and while saving workouts.
    4. Issues with adjusting settings in activity focus mode and premature Evening Reports have been resolved.
    5. Users can manually check for the update by navigating through the smartwatch menu to the Software Update section.

    Garmin is moving forward with the progress that will support a significant new software update for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 (current price: $749 on Amazon) after a rather sluggish beginning. To summarize, although these two smartwatches have been out for a few months now, their initial public beta software development only commenced less than a month ago.

    New Beta Update Released

    The Public Beta Version 12.64 has now been launched for both smartwatches, bringing a host of bug fixes when compared to last week’s Public Beta Version 12.60. Garmin reports that this latest update should be accessible to all participants in the Beta Program. If you haven’t received it yet, you can manually check for Public Beta Version 12.64 by selecting ‘Check for Updates’ from the Menu, then System, and finally Software Update on your Forerunner 570 or Forerunner 970.

    Focus on Stability Improvements

    The main focus of the new beta is on enhancing stability, addressing rare situations where the Forerunner 570 or Forerunner 970 might unexpectedly reboot during sleep mode or while saving a swimming workout. Furthermore, Garmin states they have resolved issues related to adjusting settings in activity focus mode, along with a different bug that led to the Evening Report showing up too soon.

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  • OnePlus 13T First to Get Android 16 Beta Update

    OnePlus 13T First to Get Android 16 Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oppo has completed the recruitment for public beta testers of ColorOS 16 in China, allowing selected users to test it on devices like the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13T.

    2. The beta version is also available for Oppo’s flagship device, the Find N5, and several other models including the Find X8 series.

    3. Speculation about COS 16’s design being similar to Apple’s UI was dismissed by Oppo’s mobile software design director, indicating a different direction.

    4. The global version, OxygenOS, is expected to follow a similar upgrade path with the launch of the OnePlus 15 in early 2026.

    5. Oppo is leading the development of Android 16 in China, with other brands like Vivo, Honor, and Xiaomi preparing their own beta testing for Android 16-based ROMs.

    Oppo has wrapped up its latest public beta tester recruitment in China. Those selected will get the opportunity to try out the initial version of ColorOS 16 (also known as COS 16) on devices like the OnePlus 13 and its compact version, the OnePlus 13T.

    OnePlus Devices Get Ready

    Additionally, OnePlus’ parent company has prepared the beta for its flagship device, the Find N5. Other eligible devices include the Find X8, Find X8 Pro, Find X8S, Find X8S Plus, and Find X8 Ultra, all ready for this Android 16 preview build.

    Speculation About Upgrades

    Fans of COS in China had speculated that the new version would be similar to Apple’s Liquid Glass UI found on iPhones with iOS 26. However, Oppo’s mobile software design director, Chen Xi, recently took to Weibo to dispel those rumors.

    Thus, the global version of COS, OxygenOS, may also take a similar path when it upgrades to Android 16. This transition is expected to begin with the launch of the OnePlus 15 worldwide in early 2026.

    Oppo Leading in Android 16 Development

    This announcement positions Oppo as a leader in Android 16 development in China. Nevertheless, other brands are anticipated to release Android 16-based ROMs for beta testing throughout the remainder of August 2025.

    These brands include OriginOS 6, which may launch alongside the new X300 series from Vivo, Oppo’s sister brand. Additionally, MagicOS 10 might first appear on Honor’s Magic8 series, while HyperOS 3 could be a standout feature for the upcoming Xiaomi 16 series.

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  • Starlink Introduces $5/month Standby Mode with Unlimited Low-Speed Data

    Starlink Introduces $5/month Standby Mode with Unlimited Low-Speed Data

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starlink is replacing its free pause service with a paid Standby Mode at $5/month, requiring users to enroll in this new option to avoid service termination.
    2. All users on Roam, Residential, or Priority plans must switch to Standby Mode for pausing their service, while Enterprise and promotional users are excluded.
    3. Roam plan users face increased costs, as the elimination of free pause and low-cost options means they now pay an annual fee of $60 for service with a Mini dish.
    4. Residential users using Standby Mode may not return to their original service if their area is full, forcing them to potentially switch plans or wait for availability.
    5. Standby Mode offers unlimited low-speed data, but users report speeds as low as 1 Mbps for downloads, with less favorable terms compared to similar services in Europe.

    Starlink is compelling its users to “upgrade” from the previously offered free pause service, which allowed them to halt monthly payments when the service wasn’t necessary. Now, they must switch to a paid pause with the Standby Mode, which costs $5 a month.

    New Notifications Rolling Out

    Users in the United States are receiving new notifications about the Standby Mode. These notifications inform subscribers that they must enroll in the new option within the current billing cycle. If they choose not to, their service will be terminated, leaving no room for continuing the free pause option.

    All users on the Roam, Residential, or Priority plans need to use Standby Mode for pausing their service from the next billing cycle. However, Enterprise accounts and users on Business plans cannot switch to the $5/month Standby if they cannot pause their service, nor can users on promotional deals.

    Impact on Roam Plan Users

    This update is particularly tough on those with the Starlink Roam plan. Individuals who bought a Mini dish for travel spent hundreds of dollars, even with current promotions on Amazon. Many were drawn in by the promise of a free pause service and a $10/month plan for 10GB of data. Now, both of those options are eliminated, meaning Roam plan users with a Mini dish collecting dust will face an annual fee of $60 to use the service.

    To offset the change from a free pause to a paid mode, Starlink claims that the new Standby Mode offers unlimited low-speed data. Previously, there was no connectivity available during the pause.

    Concerns for Residential Users

    Additionally, users on the Residential plan who want to utilize the new Standby Mode are not guaranteed to return to their original service line once they reactivate. If their area is full, they’ll have to either switch to a Roam or Priority plan or pay a deposit and wait for a Residential service spot to open up.

    Starlink states that the Standby Mode will provide unlimited satellite Internet connectivity. However, descriptions suggest that this low-speed data connection will be rather slow. The connectivity will be primarily for emergency messages or “ongoing software updates,” which indicates that the service will be heavily throttled and not suitable for other significant uses.

    Speed Limitations and International Comparisons

    While Starlink hasn’t disclosed the specific speed throttling for Standby Mode, users who switched to the new option report download speeds of around 1 Mbps and uplink speeds of 0.5 Mbps. Frequently, both download and upload speeds are even lower, as shown in various tests.

    Furthermore, the terms and conditions for Standby Mode in the U.S. appear less favorable compared to those in Europe and other regions. For example, in Europe, Standby Mode is priced at €5/month but includes 5GB of high-speed data before being throttled to speeds suitable for messaging and software updates. In summary, the free pausing option for Starlink service has been completely removed, and the affordable Roam plan that prompted many to purchase a Mini dish is now unavailable.

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    Starlink Introduces $5/month Standby Mode with Unlimited Low-Speed Data

     

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  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Users Report Moon Photography Problems

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Users Report Moon Photography Problems

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra are reporting issues with moon photography after updating to the One UI 8 beta, where the moon appears in a pink hue.
    2. The camera app preview displays the moon’s correct color, but saved images show incorrect shades, indicating a white balance problem in final processing.
    3. Normally, cameras adjust white balance to remove color tints, but a failure in this adjustment can lead to inaccurate moon images.
    4. There is hope for a fix before the official release of One UI 8, expected in September, as the issue occurred during beta testing.
    5. Samsung has previously faced criticism for its moon photography, particularly for relying too much on AI enhancements that distort the appearance of the moon.

    Over the past few days, there has been a growing number of reports on Samsung’s community forum and on X regarding issues with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (starting at $1,106 on Amazon). Users who have updated to the latest beta of One UI 8, which runs on Android 16, are experiencing significant problems specifically with moon photography. As seen in the images shared in the X post below, the moon appears in a pink hue.

    Camera App Preview

    Strangely, the camera app preview shows the moon’s color correctly. However, once a picture is clicked and saved, the moon turns out in an incorrect shade. This suggests a problem with the white balance settings during the final image processing stage. Normally, cameras adjust white balance to eliminate green or pink tints, but if this adjustment fails, the images may appear green or pink.

    Possible Fixes Ahead

    Given that the issue surfaced during the One UI 8 beta testing phase, there’s hope that Samsung can resolve this glitch before the official version of One UI 8 is launched to users. This update is anticipated to be available for the Samsung Galaxy S25 series in September. This isn’t the first instance of Samsung’s smartphones facing challenges with moon photography. In 2023, the company faced backlash for overly relying on artificial intelligence to “enhance” moon images, resulting in photos that often bore little resemblance to the actual moon being photographed.

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  • Linux Mint 22.2 Beta: Visual Improvements and Enhancements

    Linux Mint 22.2 Beta: Visual Improvements and Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” will be a long-term support release, supported until 2029, built on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.
    2. Visual enhancements include a blurred background on the login screen and subtle adjustments to visual themes.
    3. The Sticky Notes app now supports Wayland and features rounded corners, though the Cinnamon Wayland session is still experimental.
    4. A new application called Fingwit allows users to manage fingerprint configurations, and the IPTV player Hypnotix introduces new viewing modes.
    5. The beta version of Linux Mint 22.2 can be downloaded globally, with options for upgrading to the stable release later.

    With the exact date for its launch yet to be revealed, Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” is on its way as a long-term support release, set to be supported until 2029. Given the patterns of past releases, it’s likely we could see it debut later this month or at least before the end of 2026. This version is built on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, and the latest beta of Linux Mint 22.2 “Zara” emphasizes visual enhancements, along with some changes beneath the surface.

    Enhanced Visuals

    The login screen now features a blurred background behind the user and session box, and the account box displays the user avatar if one has been set. The visual themes receive some subtle adjustments, but there’s nothing overly drastic.

    New Features in Apps

    The Notes application, referred to as Sticky, now has rounded corners and supports Wayland. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the Cinnamon Wayland session is still in an experimental phase.

    An updated Software Manager app greets users with a revamped welcome screen and includes help content detailing the distinctions between Flatpak and system packages.

    Introducing Fingwit

    Another new application, Fingwit, provides users with the ability to manage and configure fingerprints on devices equipped with a functioning fingerprint reader. Additionally, the IPTV player Hypnotix introduces two new viewing modes, aptly named Borderless Mode and Theatre Mode.

    A number of applications such as Warpinator, GNOME Calendar, Simple Scan, Baobab, and Xviewer have received minor tweaks and fixes.

    Linux Mint 22.2 Beta can be downloaded from various mirrors located globally, and torrent downloads are also an option. Those who choose this beta version will have the opportunity to upgrade to the stable release later on. The available editions include Cinnamon, Xfce, and MATE.

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  • DA Drive Analyzer Outperforms S.M.A.R.T in Predicting Failures

    DA Drive Analyzer Outperforms S.M.A.R.T in Predicting Failures

    Key Takeaways

    1. QNAP has launched an improved DA Drive Analyzer that uses AI to detect potential drive failures.
    2. The software was developed in partnership with ULINK and offers a free one-drive license for QNAP NAS users.
    3. Users can subscribe for additional drive protection, starting at $5 per year per drive.
    4. The DA Drive Analyzer detects upcoming failures in 83% of SATA HDDs and 78% of SATA SSDs within 180 days, often without prior alerts.
    5. Notifications from the analyzer allow users to replace drives and back up important data before failures occur.

    QNAP has introduced a new and improved version of its DA Drive Analyzer, which aims to enhance the ability to spot drive failures using AI technology. This software was created in collaboration with ULINK, and QNAP NAS users can obtain a complimentary one-drive license. If users wish to protect more drives, they can opt for a subscription plan that starts at $5 per year for each additional drive.

    AI-Powered Detection

    The DA Drive Analyzer utilizes AI technology to identify potential drive failures that standard S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) might miss. This advanced AI is trained with data from a wide variety of drives from different manufacturers and models, which helps it recognize actual signs of failure that can occur in real-life situations.

    Success Rates

    According to the company, the DA Drive Analyzer can accurately detect upcoming drive failures in 83% of SATA HDDs and 78% of SATA SSDs that are likely to fail within a span of 180 days, often without any prior alerts. The notifications from DA Drive Analyzer give users the chance to order replacements in advance and ensure that their important data is securely backed up before any drive actually fails.

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    DA Drive Analyzer Outperforms S.M.A.R.T in Predicting Failures

     

  • Home Assistant 2025.8 Launches New AI Task Feature

    Home Assistant 2025.8 Launches New AI Task Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Home Assistant 2025.8 introduces AI features that reduce response wait times for voice interactions.
    2. A new AI Task integration allows users to analyze video footage and generate data outputs based on preferences.
    3. The Suggest with AI button simplifies data creation and sharing of blueprints with default entities.
    4. Dashboard updates enable users to choose how to display the first camera, image, or icon.
    5. New integrations include OpenRouter for accessing over 400 LLM models and Volvo for vehicle battery and location checks.

    Home Assistant 2025.8 is now out. This is the most recent version of the open-source software for smart home automation, coming after the 2025.7 update which introduced a new Ask Question feature and refreshed Area cards.

    New AI Features

    The latest version, Home Assistant 2025.8, comes with a couple of AI-focused tools. If you’re using Home Assistant Voice to communicate with an AI chatbot, the Text-to-Speech system will begin generating responses even before the chatbot finishes answering. This change is expected to lessen wait times for those using Home Assistant’s cloud voices.

    AI Task Integration

    There’s also a new AI Task integration available, which allows you to analyze footage from cameras or any other files, giving you a text or data output based on your preferences. For instance, the Home Assistant team recommends using this feature to tally the number of chickens seen on a smart camera. Coupled with this is the Suggest with AI button that comes with default entities, making it quicker and simpler to create data and share blueprints. Additionally, a new OpenRouter integration has been added, which offers access to over 400 LLM models.

    Dashboard Updates

    In addition to these features, some adjustments have been made to the Areas dashboard. Users can now select whether to display the first camera, image, or icon. Apart from the OpenRouter integration, there’s a new Volvo integration that lets users check their vehicle’s battery level and location. Furthermore, support has been added for the YoLink Smart Energy Plug 15A, which is currently priced at $24.99 on Amazon. For full details, you can find the complete release notes for Home Assistant 2025.8 on the company’s website.

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    Home Assistant 2025.8 Launches New AI Task Feature

     

  • Scientists Revive Deadly Virus Linked to 100 Million Deaths

    Scientists Revive Deadly Virus Linked to 100 Million Deaths

    Key Takeaways

    1. Scientists successfully reconstructed the genetic code of the 1918 flu virus from preserved specimens.
    2. The project was led by Verena Schünemann, who faced challenges due to the virus’s RNA material deteriorating quickly.
    3. The reconstructed genome is the first accurately dated from the 1918 outbreak.
    4. The analysis revealed three critical mutations that helped the virus thrive in humans, including evasion of the immune response.
    5. Findings may help in developing better pandemic preparedness models and vaccines.

    An international group of scientists has successfully brought back to life the flu virus from the 1918 pandemic by reconstructing its full genetic code. This pandemic was one of the deadliest events in history, occurring between 1918 and 1920, and it is estimated to have caused the deaths of 20 to 100 million people.

    Extracting Genetic Material

    The project was spearheaded by paleogeneticist Verena Schünemann, who and her team obtained genetic material from a specimen preserved in formalin. This specimen was from an 18-year-old patient in Switzerland. Because the virus is an RNA type, its genetic material deteriorates more quickly than that of DNA, which posed a significant challenge for the researchers. To tackle this issue, they devised a new, highly effective approach for retrieving and sequencing the old RNA fragments.

    Surprising Findings

    The reconstructed genome, which is the first accurately dated from the 1918 outbreak, revealed some unexpected findings. Analysis showed that right from the beginning of the pandemic, the virus already possessed three important mutations that enabled it to thrive in humans. Two of these mutations assisted the virus in evading the human immune response, while the third mutation enhanced its capacity to attach to human cells, increasing its lethality.

    The knowledge gained about the virus’s evolution could aid scientists in developing better models for preparing for future pandemics and in creating vaccines.

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  • Philips Hue Update: Get Personalized Lighting Recommendations

    Philips Hue Update: Get Personalized Lighting Recommendations

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app has been updated to version 5.48.0 for iOS users, following version 5.47.0.
    2. Users will receive more personalized scene suggestions for dynamic lighting effects in specific rooms.
    3. Signify has introduced a new logo that drops ‘Philips’ from the brand name and features a colorful gradient design.
    4. The app includes a new intro screen with a colorful backdrop and a larger Hue logo, alongside changes to font and background color.
    5. The Android update for version 5.48.0 is expected to be released a few days after the iOS version, likely by mid-August.

    The Philips Hue app has been updated to version 5.48.0. This new version is currently out for iOS users and comes just weeks after the previous version 5.47.0, which improved how the smart lights reconnect.

    Enhanced Scene Recommendations

    The release notes for the Philips Hue app version 5.48.0 mention that users will now receive more personalized scene suggestions. This means that dynamic lighting effects will be better suited to the specific room or area you are using.

    A Fresh Look

    Along with this update, Signify, the parent company of Philips Hue, has introduced a new logo. The updated version drops the ‘Philips’ from the brand name and alters the design of the word ‘Hue’. The logo maintains a white background with text that features a gradient of colors. The new logo has already been seen on some of the latest products, such as the Hue Play Wall Washer light, which is currently priced at $219.99 on Amazon. Furthermore, the app now features a new intro screen that showcases a colorful backdrop and a bigger Hue logo. The font for the home name and the background color within the app have also been modified.

    You can download the Philips Hue App version 5.48.0 from the Apple App Store for iOS devices. However, an update for Android users is still pending. Historically, updates for Android have been released a few days after those for iOS, so it is expected to be available in the Google Play Store by mid-August.

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    Philips Hue Update: Get Personalized Lighting RecommendationsPhilips Hue Update: Get Personalized Lighting Recommendations

     

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