Category: Software

  • One-Tap Fuji Recipe Transfers from Phone to Camera Made Easy

    One-Tap Fuji Recipe Transfers from Phone to Camera Made Easy

    Key Takeaways

    1. A solo developer has created a method to send custom film simulations directly to Fujifilm cameras via the Fujistyle app, making the process easier for users.

    2. The new feature is currently in beta testing and has been confirmed to work on multiple Fujifilm camera models, including the X-T5 and X-S20.

    3. The feature will be free for the first month after launch, with potential pricing models being discussed between $10 to $20 for lifetime access.

    4. Users are encouraged to wait for community feedback before using the feature, as it alters camera settings through third-party methods.

    5. High interest in the app exists, and updates can be followed through the developer’s official Instagram page (@fujistyle_app).

    After a long time of trying and failing, a solo developer has created something that many Fujifilm users have been secretly hoping for: a method to send custom film simulations from an app directly to Fuji cameras. This was announced in a Reddit post on r/fujifilm. With this tool, users can quickly send recipes to compatible cameras with just a few taps—no more hassle with dials and menus to manually input values.

    Built into Fujistyle App

    This feature will be integrated into the current Fujistyle app, and beta testing is already in progress. The developer mentioned that they have tested more than 12 different Fujifilm cameras, which includes the X-T5 (currently priced at $2,199 on Amazon), X-S20, and older models like the X-T20. Users in the thread confirmed that the app functions across various XT, XS, and GFX series models. Some comments even suggested that the app should include a voting system for recipes, with hopes for future features like commenting and community uploads.

    Free for the First Month

    At the moment, the developer plans to offer this feature for free for the first month after launch. The pricing details are still being worked out, but they are leaning towards a one-time payment model—something that has been well-received by the Reddit community. Several users proposed pricing tiers ranging from $10 to $20 for lifetime access.

    Safety issues were also discussed. The developer assured that over 12 units have been tested without any problems, but they encourage users to wait and see the feedback from the community before jumping in, especially since this feature alters camera settings through third-party methods.

    High Interest and Future Updates

    Even though the feature isn’t yet available on the App Store, there is already a lot of interest, which is totally understandable. The developer is dedicating all their time to the app, without any outside funding or income, depending entirely on community input and support to guide the project’s direction.

    A beta release will be coming soon. For more updates, follow the developer’s official Instagram page (@fujistyle_app).

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  • HarmonyOS 6 Launches with Star Shield Security and AI Features

    HarmonyOS 6 Launches with Star Shield Security and AI Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei introduced HarmonyOS NEXT, a new version of its operating system built from scratch, without any Android code.
    2. The Harmony Intelligent Agent Framework was unveiled to enhance the AI assistant, Xiaoyi.
    3. HarmonyOS 6 features a new security system called Star Shield, aimed at improving biometric authentication.
    4. Star Shield has already blocked over 8.6 billion unauthorized app permission requests and may enhance online banking security for users in China.
    5. The first public beta of HarmonyOS 6.0 is being launched during HDC 2025, which runs until June 22, 2025.

    Huawei’s 2025 Developer Conference (HDC 2025) kicked off today, June 20, 2025, with a significant reveal: a new version of HarmonyOS NEXT. This software has been designed from scratch to work specifically with Huawei devices, eliminating the need for any Android code.

    New AI Features

    Alongside this, Huawei unveiled its Harmony Intelligent Agent Framework. This is a collection of tools aimed at enhancing the efficiency and functionality of the AI assistant, Xiaoyi. This move is similar to what Apple has been pursuing at its recent WWDC events.

    Enhanced Security

    The latest iteration, HarmonyOS 6, brings a new security system called Star Shield. This architecture is designed to improve biometric authentication by coordinating various on-device hardware, like GPS and cameras. This approach mirrors Apple’s security methods used in iOS.

    Star Shield is a notable addition to the HarmonyOS system, which claims to have prevented more than 8.6 billion unauthorized app permission requests to date. It may also strengthen online banking security for Huawei users, although this might be limited to users in China.

    Beta Release Information

    Additionally, Huawei is launching the first public beta of HarmonyOS 6.0 during HDC 2025, which runs until June 22, 2025, at Songshan Lake in China.

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    HarmonyOS 6 Launches with Star Shield Security and AI FeaturesHarmonyOS 6 Launches with Star Shield Security and AI FeaturesHarmonyOS 6 Launches with Star Shield Security and AI FeaturesHarmonyOS 6 Launches with Star Shield Security and AI Features
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  • Huawei Achieves 100M HarmonyOS Smartphones, Canalys Reports

    Huawei Achieves 100M HarmonyOS Smartphones, Canalys Reports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei has shipped over 100 million HarmonyOS-enabled smartphones since its launch in 2019, with 46 million sold in 2024 alone.
    2. HarmonyOS has expanded beyond smartphones, with 21 million tablets shipped, including 10.5 million in 2024.
    3. The operating system is now part of a diverse ecosystem, including wearables, audio devices, smart home products, and personal computers.
    4. Huawei shipped approximately 4.2 million personal computers in China, including 3.2 million notebooks.
    5. HarmonyOS version 6.0 is anticipated later this year, focusing on AI and distributed architecture, positioning it as a strong alternative to international platforms.

    Huawei’s HarmonyOS software has hit a significant shipping milestone, as reported by Canalys, a research firm. The Chinese technology giant has shipped over 100 million HarmonyOS-enabled smartphones since the platform was introduced in 2019.

    Impressive Sales Figures

    To be precise, the total number reached 103 million smartphones by the end of 2024. Out of this total, Huawei sold 46 million HarmonyOS devices just in 2024. These figures indicate that, despite facing challenges in international markets, Huawei maintains a robust presence domestically, especially in China, where HarmonyOS has become an integral part of the company’s hardware ecosystem.

    Growth Beyond Smartphones

    The expansion of HarmonyOS isn’t just confined to smartphones. Canalys also reports that Huawei has shipped 21 million HarmonyOS tablets so far, with 10.5 million of them sold in 2024 alone. The operating system was initially launched in 2019 and saw widespread adoption on consumer devices by mid-2021. Since then, it has become the default operating system for much of Huawei’s product line.

    A Diverse Ecosystem

    HarmonyOS now goes beyond just phones and tablets, extending into wearables, audio devices, smart home products, and increasingly, personal computers. Canalys points out that Huawei shipped around 4.2 million personal computers in China, with 3.2 million of those being notebooks.

    Looking ahead, Huawei is said to be preparing for the next major version of HarmonyOS. Version 6.0 is anticipated later this year and is likely to incorporate more features focused on AI and distributed architecture. Canalys suggests that these advancements, along with Huawei’s control over both hardware and software, are positioning HarmonyOS as a viable long-term alternative to international platforms, particularly in its home market.

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    Huawei Achieves 100M HarmonyOS Smartphones, Canalys Reports

     

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  • Philips Hue Smart Home App Gets Exciting New Update

    Philips Hue Smart Home App Gets Exciting New Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app for iOS has been updated to version 5.44.0, focusing on bug fixes and stability improvements.
    2. The update does not include expanded access to the new AI-powered assistant, which users were anticipating.
    3. The AI assistant is currently available only for English-speaking users in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
    4. The AI assistant allows users to create custom smart lighting effects using voice and text commands, with feedback options.
    5. There is no information on when the AI assistant will be available to more users or when the next Android app update will occur.

    The Philips Hue app for iOS has received another update. Now, users can download version 5.44.0. This update comes just a few weeks after the last version, 5.43.0, which included improvements for Secure cameras, smart light switches, and sensors from the brand.

    Minimal Changes in the Update

    The change log for version 5.44 is quite short. It mentions “various bug fixes and stability improvements” but does not provide any further details. Sadly, this update does not seem to expand access to the new AI-powered assistant, which many users were looking forward to.

    AI Assistant Availability

    The Philips Hue AI assistant was recently launched for English-speaking users in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. This feature can be found on the Home tab and allows users to create unique smart lighting effects based on their mood or specific events. It supports both voice and text commands, and users can provide feedback through like and dislike buttons.

    Future Updates Uncertain

    It is still unclear when the Philips Hue AI assistant will be made available to more users. Additionally, there is no information on when the next Philips Hue app update for Android will be released; the last update for Android users was version 5.43, which came out in late May 2025. You can now get Philips Hue app version 5.44.0 from the Apple App Store.

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  • Google Introduces Pixel Desktop Mode for Pixel 8 and 9 Updates

    Google Introduces Pixel Desktop Mode for Pixel 8 and 9 Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has launched Android 16 as a stable update for Pixel smartphones, including the Pixel 6, 7, 8, and 9 series.
    2. The company is currently developing QPR1 Beta 2, following the recent release of Beta 1.1.
    3. QPR1 Beta 2 introduces Material 3 Expressive design in the Pixel Launcher and Settings menu.
    4. A new desktop mode is included, allowing users to have multiple desktops and resizable windows, similar to desktop operating systems.
    5. Desktop mode can be activated on compatible Pixel devices through Developer options and is expected to be available on all Pixel 8 and 9 models.

    Google has launched Android 16 as a stable update for Pixel smartphones, which includes the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 8, and Pixel 9 series, just this week. However, the tech giant is already working on QPR1 Beta 2, following the release of Beta 1.1 around a week ago. To give you an idea, it’s unlikely that Android 16 QPR1 will become stable until at least September.

    New Features in QPR1 Beta 2

    While waiting for the stable version, QPR1 Beta 2 reveals some exciting features. It showcases a greater use of Material 3 Expressive design in both the Pixel Launcher and the Pixel Settings menu. Additionally, this beta brings in the much-anticipated desktop mode from Google. This mode serves as a counterpart to options like Motorola’s Ready For and Samsung’s DeX. Users can activate this desktop mode on any Pixel that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode through the USB Type-C port. All Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 devices are expected to be compatible, including the Pixel 8a, which is currently priced at $288 for refurbished units on Amazon.

    Early Insights into Desktop Mode

    From the videos shared below, it seems that Google’s new desktop mode is quite powerful even at this early phase. It features multiple desktops similar to a traditional desktop operating system, along with resizable windows and the ability to pin windows. If you want to try out Google’s desktop mode, you can do so by enabling Developer options and then selecting ‘Desktop experience features’. Check out the videos below for more information.

    Google’s advancements in Android continue to excite users, paving the way for more innovative features to come in future updates.

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  • Home Assistant 2025.6 Introduces New Bluetooth Connection Graph

    Home Assistant 2025.6 Introduces New Bluetooth Connection Graph

    Key Takeaways

    1. Home Assistant 2025.6 features an improved entity picker with enhanced search functionality for various categories and devices.
    2. The Bluetooth integration has been upgraded with a new connection graph for better visualization of Bluetooth devices.
    3. The experimental Areas dashboard has new features, including an Actions section and updated entities like counters and timers.
    4. New integrations include support for Alexa devices (Fire TVs and Echo Pop) and updates for Homee and Samsung SmartThings.
    5. The release was slightly delayed, but the next version, 2025.7, is expected to be available on July 2nd.

    Home Assistant 2025.6 has been officially unveiled. This new version of the free smart home automation software comes on the heels of a May update that introduced a revamped backup system and new options for text-to-speech voices.

    Enhancements and Features

    According to a recent blog post, Home Assistant 2025.6 includes several enhancements. The new entity picker, introduced in Home Assistant 2025.5, has been improved. Just as a reminder, pickers are the dropdown menus used for selecting entities, devices, and more. The search functionality has been fine-tuned and is now available for area, category, floor, label, user, and device pickers. Furthermore, the Bluetooth integration has seen upgrades with a new Bluetooth connection graph, which lets users clearly visualize how Bluetooth devices connect to their Home Assistant setup.

    Updates to Dashboard and Integrations

    Additionally, there’s a new version of the experimental Areas dashboard, which was launched with Home Assistant 2025.4. New features include an Actions section and, in the Others section, there are new number entities, button entities, counters, and timer helpers. Moreover, the “Entertainment” section has been renamed to “Media players.” There are also new integrations for Alexa devices, including Fire TVs and the Echo Pop (currently priced at $24.99 on Amazon), along with Probe Plus meat thermometers. The Homee integration has added support for fans and alarm control panels, while the Samsung SmartThings integration now works with hobs, water heaters, and temperature sensors for freezers.

    Release Notes and Future Updates

    You can check out the full release notes for Home Assistant 2025.6 on the company’s website. The Home Assistant team has mentioned that, although the June release was a week later than anticipated, they expect the 2025.7 version to be available on July 2nd.

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    Home Assistant 2025.6 Introduces New Bluetooth Connection GraphHome Assistant 2025.6 Introduces New Bluetooth Connection Graph

     

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  • Android 16: New Features and Visual Enhancements Unveiled

    Android 16: New Features and Visual Enhancements Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Live Updates Feature: Users can now monitor delivery progress without constantly checking apps, initially supporting select ride-share and food delivery apps.

    2. Visual Improvements: The status bar text is bolder for better readability, and control panel tiles can be customized with refreshed brightness and volume sliders.

    3. Streamlined Notifications: Notifications from the same app are now grouped together, making it easier to find specific alerts.

    4. Enhanced Features for Large Screens: Desktop Windowing is introduced for larger devices, enhancing productivity on foldables and tablets, with custom keyboard shortcuts available.

    5. Advanced Protection: Google’s strongest mobile device protection is now available, activated with one tap to safeguard against online threats and scams.

    Android 16 has arrived, bringing several visual updates that enhance user experience. This release is notable as it is the earliest major Android launch in many years and sets the stage for Google’s new Material 3 Expressive design language. The version currently available is the Android 16 QPR1 beta release (Google has recently issued QPR1 Beta 2, which includes some fixes), and it is ready for supported Pixel devices. Let’s dive into the new features.

    New Live Updates Feature

    One small yet handy addition is the Live Updates feature. Now, instead of constantly checking a delivery app, you can monitor the progress quickly. Initially, it supports a few ride-share and food delivery apps, but more are likely to come as development continues. Samsung’s Now Bar and OPPO and OnePlus’ Live Alerts will also incorporate this feature to improve the overall Android experience.

    Visual Improvements

    Regarding visual updates, there are several noteworthy changes. The status bar text now features a bold font, making it clearer and easier to read. Additionally, the tiles in the control panel can be customized, and both the brightness and volume sliders have received a fresh look.

    Streamlined Notifications

    Tired of scrolling through endless notifications or having trouble locating the one you need? Android 16 now organizes notifications from the same app together, which simplifies the process of finding what you’re after.

    Enhanced Features for Large Screens

    For larger devices, Android 16 brings Desktop Windowing, inspired by Samsung’s DeX. There’s a video available that showcases how this feature works and how it can enhance productivity on foldable devices or Android tablets. Users can also set up custom keyboard shortcuts to maximize the utility of their lightweight, efficient, yet powerful device.

    Advanced Protection

    Another significant addition is Advanced Protection, which Google describes as its “strongest mobile device protection” to date. It can be activated with just one tap and is designed to safeguard users against online threats, malicious apps, unsafe websites, scam calls, and more.

    Android 16: New Features and Visual Enhancements UnveiledAndroid 16: New Features and Visual Enhancements UnveiledAndroid 16: New Features and Visual Enhancements Unveiled
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  • iOS 26: Android Features Coming to iPhones You Need to Know

    iOS 26: Android Features Coming to iPhones You Need to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is adopting features from Android, with iOS 26 introducing many long-awaited capabilities.
    2. The new Visual Intelligence feature allows users to capture screenshots and search for visible content within apps.
    3. Visual Intelligence is similar to Google Lens and Circle to Search found on Android devices.
    4. The feature is powered by ChatGPT, enhancing the AI capabilities of recent iPhone models.
    5. Apple’s focus on improved software is seen as a response to competition from Android brands.

    Smartphone companies are always looking at each other for ideas. Android brands often borrow design concepts from the iPhone, but Apple tends to lag behind when it comes to software capabilities. The recent WWDC 2025 event showcased its latest software suite for its devices, including the new iOS 26. Apple is finally adding many much-anticipated Android features to the iPhones, so let’s take a look at what’s on the way.

    New Feature Unveiling

    1. Visual Intelligence: Also Known as Circle to Search
    Apple’s Visual Intelligence
    If you’ve tried Google Lens or the well-known Circle to Search function on Android, this new feature will seem familiar. With iOS 26, Apple is introducing a fresh Visual Intelligence, which, as the name indicates, acts as an on-screen search tool. It enables users to capture a screenshot and look up anything visible within any app. This can include text, objects, locations, or even unfamiliar products.

    Enhanced Capabilities

    While Apple has been promoting its Apple Intelligence alongside the iPhone 16 series, the new Visual Intelligence takes things a step further, as it is driven by ChatGPT. Therefore, recent iPhones like the iPhone 15 Pro models, as well as the entire iPhone 16 series, will be capable of executing more intricate tasks and answering inquiries through AI.

    iOS 26: Android Features Coming to iPhones You Need to KnowiOS 26: Android Features Coming to iPhones You Need to Know
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  • One UI 8 Update: Eligible Devices, Rollout Plan & Features

    One UI 8 Update: Eligible Devices, Rollout Plan & Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Timeline: One UI 8 will roll out “this summer,” with Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 being the first devices to feature it, likely launching in July 2025.

    2. Eligible Devices: A wide range of devices will receive One UI 8, including several models from the Galaxy S, Z, Tab, A, M, F, C, and XCover series.

    3. Productivity Enhancements: New features improve multitasking and file sharing, such as a full-screen layout for Quick Share and enhanced split screen capabilities.

    4. Personalization Features: One UI 8 introduces dynamic live wallpapers and improved modes and routines, making personalization more accessible.

    5. Privacy and Accessibility Upgrades: Enhanced security in the Secure Folder and new accessibility features, like improved screen zooming and keyboard controls, are key highlights.

    Samsung is moving swiftly this year with the development of One UI 8, which was something they really needed to improve on from the last version. The company has already started the One UI 8 beta program for certain Galaxy devices, and the stable version is set to be released earlier than usual. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about One UI 8, including when it will be released, which devices will get it, and what new features it includes.

    One UI 8 Release Timeline

    Samsung has not yet given a specific release date for One UI 8. However, they have stated that the new version will start to rollout to compatible devices “this summer,” which covers the period from June to September. Additionally, the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 are confirmed to be the first devices to feature stable One UI 8. While the exact launch date is still a mystery, reports indicate that these foldable devices could be released in July 2025.

    Even though the One UI 8 release date is still under wraps, it’s quite evident that this update will arrive much sooner compared to last year. This is not very surprising, especially since Google has already launched the stable version of Android 16, making it likely that other brands will quickly follow suit with their updates, including One UI.

    Eligible Devices for One UI 8

    Here’s the list of Galaxy devices that are set to receive One UI 8:

    Galaxy S Series
    – S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 Edge
    – S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, S24 FE
    – S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE
    – S22, S22+, S22 Ultra
    – S21 FE

    Galaxy Z Series
    – Z Fold SE
    – Z Fold 6, Flip 6
    – Z Fold 5, Flip 5
    – Z Fold 4, Flip 4

    Galaxy Tab Series
    – Tab S10+, S10 Ultra, S10 FE, S10 FE+
    – Tab S9, S9+, S9 Ultra, S9 FE, S9 FE+
    – Tab S8, S8+, S8 Ultra
    – Tab S6 Lite (2024)
    – Tab A9, A9+
    – Tab Active 5 Pro, Active 5

    Galaxy A Series
    – A73
    – A56, A55, A54, A53
    – A36, A35, A34, A33
    – A26, A25, A24, A23
    – A16 (LTE/5G), A15 (LTE/5G), A14 (LTE/5G)
    – A06 (LTE/5G)

    Galaxy M Series
    – M56, M55, M55s, M54, M53
    – M35, M34, M33
    – M16, M15
    – M06, M05

    Galaxy F Series
    – F56, F55, F54
    – F34
    – F16, F15, F14 (LTE)
    – F06, F05

    Galaxy C Series
    – Galaxy C55

    Galaxy XCover Series
    – XCover 7, 7 Pro

    New Features and Changes in One UI 8

    One UI 8 may not introduce major changes like its predecessor, One UI 7, but it still offers a range of useful additions and improvements. Here are some key highlights:

    1. Boosted Productivity and Multitasking
    One UI 8 includes a specific full-screen layout for Quick Share, which activates the “Ready to receive” action when you tap the icon in the Quick Settings panel. There’s also a “Send” tab that simplifies file sharing without needing to switch apps. The split screen feature has been enhanced, allowing one app to take up more screen space than before, and Samsung Dex has received upgrades like customizable screen resolution and display rotation options.

    2. Personalization and Automation
    The update introduces dynamic live wallpapers that adjust colors according to the time of day. Additionally, it enhances modes and routines, adding new features like Cold weather alerts and Morning briefings. Customizing a Profile Card has also been made easier with a full layout display during edits.

    3. Redesigned and Smarter Apps
    Significant improvements have been made to many apps, enhancing their usability and aesthetics. The Gallery app now sorts screenshots into categories for quicker access, and the My Files app can filter downloads by the originating app. The Weather app has received smoother animations, while the Reminder app sports a fresh layout with quick access to templates and categories. The Calendar app has also seen upgrades, including a cleaner look and integration with Reminders for easier task management.

    4. Privacy and Accessibility Enhancements
    One UI 8 strengthens the Secure Folder with features like allowing different fingerprints for access and hiding other apps for enhanced security. It also introduces several accessibility improvements, like screen zooming and more intuitive keyboard controls.

    5. Other Notable Enhancements
    The Camera app now allows users to customize actions with swipes for easier access. Connecting multiple Bluetooth audio devices is simplified, and users can manage all alarms from a Home screen widget. Samsung Health has added a feature to challenge friends to fitness goals, along with reminders for wellness.

    Conclusion

    One UI 8 is set to make a substantial impact on the user experience with its range of new features and improvements. The advancements in multitasking, personalization, app design, privacy, and accessibility show Samsung’s commitment to enhancing user interaction with their devices.

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  • Philips Hue Updates Enhance Smart Home Device Performance

    Philips Hue Updates Enhance Smart Home Device Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. New software updates released for Philips Hue Secure cameras and HDMI sync boxes.
    2. Secure cameras update (version 1.2.32.976160) fixes event availability issues.
    3. HDMI sync box update (version 2.5.3) includes general bug fixes and improvements.
    4. Updates are rolled out in stages and should install automatically.
    5. Users should ensure automatic updates are enabled in the Philips Hue app settings.

    Philips Hue has begun to release new software updates for its Secure cameras and Hue Play HDMI sync boxes. The last update for the security cameras occurred at the beginning of May 2025, which focused on enhancing battery performance. Meanwhile, the HDMI sync box got its last update at the end of April, which included various bug fixes and improvements.

    Recent Updates for Secure Cameras

    The new version 1.2.32.976160 for Philips Hue Secure Cameras has now been launched. This update aims to fix a problem where certain events captured by the camera were not available. However, Philips Hue has not disclosed how many users experienced this issue or the methods used to address it.

    HDMI Sync Box Changes

    For the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box, the firmware version 2.5.3 is now available for both the 4K and 8K models (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon). This update comes with a brief change log. Philips Hue mentions “general bug fixes and improvements,” but no further specifics were shared.

    Rollout and User Recommendations

    Typically, Philips Hue updates are released in stages, allowing all users to receive them over a few days. The updates for both the Philips Hue Secure Cameras and HDMI sync boxes should be installed automatically. Users are encouraged to verify that they have enabled automatic updates in the Philips Hue app, which can be found under Settings > Software update > Automatic update.

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