Category: Software

  • Android 15 Beta Released for vivo X100 and iQOO 12

    Android 15 Beta Released for vivo X100 and iQOO 12

    vivo has rolled out the Android 15 update for its vivo X100 and iQOO 12 smartphones. However, it is worth noting that this update is in its beta phase, implying it may not be fully reliable for regular use. Users opting for this update might face some system instability.

    Known Issues

    vivo has issued the Android 15 Beta update for the X100 and iQOO 12 but has highlighted some known problems. On the vivo X100, notifications may not appear correctly, the fingerprint sensor icon might overlap with the unlock icon, some apps could malfunction, and certain features may be absent from the system settings. For the iQOO 12, the camera may occasionally malfunction, necessitating a reboot to resolve the issue. Additionally, some third-party apps may not function properly, and NFC issues could arise.

    Android 15 for vivo X100 and iQOO 12

    The Android 15 update for both devices is somewhat unstable at the moment. However, if you're eager to explore new features and don't mind potential bugs, you might consider installing it. Our previous article details the new features included in Android 15. The update has been released in specific regions, with two different download packages available for the vivo X100. Depending on your location, you can download the Android 15 update file for the vivo X100 and iQOO 12 from the provided links.

    vivo X100

    • Android 15 Beta 1 (Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Kazakhstan)
    • Android 15 Beta 1 (India)

    iQOO 12

    • Android 15 Beta 1(Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia)
    • Android 15 Beta 1(India)

    Update Process

    To install the update, transfer the downloaded update package to your phone's internal storage. Navigate to Settings > System update > Local update, select the zip file, and reboot after the update is completed. If you find that Android 15 isn't suitable for you, you can revert to the previous version using the rollback file, following the same steps.

    If you encounter issues and wish to revert to the previous version or have trouble downloading the update packages, visit vivo's official website. The website provides both the update and rollback files.

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  • iQOO Neo 9 Pro Update: WiFi Fix, May 2024 Security, No Video Playback

    iQOO Neo 9 Pro Update: WiFi Fix, May 2024 Security, No Video Playback

    iQOO has rolled out a new software update for its iQOO Neo 9 Pro smartphone, primarily aimed at enhancing system security and boosting performance. The update, labeled as firmware version PD2338BF_EX_A_14.0.12.0.W30, has a download size of 238MB.

    Key Improvements

    One of the significant additions in this update is the May 2024 Android security patch, which strengthens the device’s defense against security vulnerabilities. Among the changes, the update also eliminates the background video listening feature from the smart sidebar.

    Bug Fixes and Stability Enhancements

    The update addresses several critical bugs: it fixes an issue that prevented the smartphone from connecting to WiFi networks and resolves a glitch where the home screen would not appear correctly when exiting apps. Moreover, it improves the stability of the MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) and Super-resolution features, which are essential for maintaining video quality and image clarity.

    Recommendations for Users

    iQOO advises users to back up their data before initiating the update to prevent any loss of information. Additionally, the company suggests keeping the device connected to a charger during the update process, as it might consume more power and cause temporary heating.

    This firmware update is now available for iQOO Neo 9 Pro users and can be accessed through the device’s settings menu.

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  • Galaxy S21 Series Gains AI Feature with OneUI 6.1 Update in India

    Galaxy S21 Series Gains AI Feature with OneUI 6.1 Update in India

    Samsung has recently rolled out the OneUI 6.1 update for Galaxy S21 series devices in Europe, the US, and its home country. The update has now made its way to India. Interestingly, even the early 2021 models are benefiting from some of the latest Galaxy AI features introduced by the company.

    The update for the three models comes with the firmware version – G996BXXUAGXDA / G996BOXMAGXDA / G996BXXUAGXDA. It is approximately 2.2GB in size and includes the April security patch. However, the Galaxy S21FE has not received this update yet.

    Galaxy S21 Receives Circle to Search and Other AI Features

    With the OneUI 6.1 update, the Galaxy S21 series gains a notable Galaxy AI feature called Circle to Search. This feature allows users to circle an object on their screen to learn more about it. Without exiting the app, users can search for items they see, copy text from images, and more.

    Activating this feature is simple. Users can either tap and hold the home button or the Navigation Handle, depending on their settings.

    The update also enhances the built-in Gallery app with AI-powered image editing capabilities. By tapping the ‘i’ button below an image, users can access recommendations like colorize and star trail. Additionally, the Gallery app now enables copying objects from images and pasting them elsewhere.

    Enhanced Video Editor and New Features in Apps

    The built-in video editor has also received updates. Users can now adjust the playback speed of an entire video or specific parts of it. The video editor allows for exporting files to other Galaxy devices to continue editing.

    Moreover, users can apply frames and effects to wallpapers, such as blurring the background around the subject.

    Other app updates include Samsung Health, which now lets users compete with their previous workout records. The Calendar app has been updated to allow the addition of two custom stickers for each date. The Reminders app now includes the feature to pin frequently used categories.

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  • Google Tests ChromeOS on Android Devices to Rival Samsung DeX

    Google Tests ChromeOS on Android Devices to Rival Samsung DeX

    Google’s mobile OS, Android, has been around for a long time, yet it hasn’t provided a true desktop experience when connected to a monitor. Both Microsoft’s Continuum for Lumia and Samsung’s DeX aimed to offer such experiences, but neither solution gained widespread adoption. Importantly, Google never supported this kind of functionality natively. This, however, might be changing as it appears that Google is working on a solution.

    ChromeOS: Google’s Different Approach

    Rather than adapting Android for desktops, Google created ChromeOS, a lightweight operating system designed specifically to offer a desktop experience. ChromeOS powers several laptops, particularly those used in educational settings. While it hasn’t reached the dominance of Windows, ChromeOS provides a user-friendly alternative.

    Google’s ChromeOS on Android

    Recent reports by Android Authority indicate that Google might be exploring ways to bring ChromeOS to Android devices. Additionally, Google will allow OEMs to run ChromiumOS, the open-source version of ChromeOS, on their devices. Although there is no official evidence yet that Google is merging both platforms, we know that Google previously worked on a hybrid architecture called "Andromeda," which combined ChromeOS and Android-based systems, though it was later canceled.

    ChromiumOS on Pixel 7 Pro

    The Android Authority team successfully ran ChromiumOS on a virtual machine within Android, codenamed "ferrochrome." This was made possible with Google’s VL Launcher app and Android’s Virtualization Framework (AVF), suggesting the potential for running ChromeOS on Android devices in the future.

    In a video shared by Android Authority, ChromiumOS operates very smoothly on the Pixel 7 Pro. While it’s too early to say that Google has transformed Android devices into desktop machines, the capability to run ChromiumOS on Android is promising. We might see some intriguing developments from Google soon.

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  • Realme Phones Eligible for Realme UI 6.0 (Android 15) Update

    Realme Phones Eligible for Realme UI 6.0 (Android 15) Update

    Android 15 is currently under active development, with various developer previews and beta versions already available for testing. These early releases have unveiled several exciting features of the new operating system, including satellite connectivity, Find My Device network, and App Archiving. As Google continues to release more beta builds, we can anticipate the introduction of additional new features in Android 15.

    Realme Phones Eligible for Android 15 Update

    Realme is gearing up to provide the Android 15-based Realme UI 6.0 update for a range of its smartphones. The list of Realme phones eligible for the update includes models like Realme GT 5, Realme GT 2 Pro, Realme Narzo 70, and many more. This list is not final and is subject to updates as the brand announces the complete roster of devices that will support Android 15.

    Realme UI 5.0 Rollout Details

    The rollout of Realme UI 5.0, based on Android 15, is expected to commence after the stable release of the new OS. Google's official timeline indicates that the beta phase for Android 15 will continue until June 2024, with a probable stable release around October. Following the stable release, smartphone manufacturers like Realme will refine their custom skins, which could take a few weeks before users can experience the latest Android features.

    Notable Features of Android 15

    Android 15 introduces several significant changes, such as enhancements to the Find My Phone Network, satellite connectivity support, App Archiving, Battery Health monitoring, Notification Cooldown, and Partial Screen Sharing. These features aim to enhance user experience, improve functionality, and provide greater control over device usage.

    For a more detailed overview of the top 10 features coming to Android 15, users are encouraged to explore the comprehensive list. Individuals are also encouraged to share their thoughts on their Realme smartphones and expectations for Android 15 in the comments section.

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    For more information on Android 15, users can explore additional features like audio sharing, satellite connectivity support at the OS level, finding smartphones even when powered off, and the Notification Cooldown feature.

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  • Jury Fines Microsoft $242 Million for Cortana Patent Infringement

    Jury Fines Microsoft $242 Million for Cortana Patent Infringement

    A US jury has imposed a substantial fine of $242 million (approximately ¥1.75 billion) on Microsoft for infringing on a patent. The ruling, delivered in Delaware on May 10, resulted from a lawsuit brought by IPA Technologies in 2018.

    Microsoft to Challenge Jury's Decision

    Microsoft intends to challenge the jury's decision, which alleged that Microsoft's Cortana voice assistant violated IPA's patent related to voice recognition technology in computer communication software. Initially, the lawsuit encompassed multiple IPA patents, but eventually focused on a specific one. Microsoft contended that they did not breach the patent and that the patent itself was invalid.

    Background and Acquisition of Patents

    IPA Technologies, a subsidiary of Wi-LAN, obtained the disputed patent from SRI International's Siri Company. Subsequently, Apple acquired Siri Company and its technology in 2010, incorporating it into their Siri voice assistant.

    Microsoft's Response and Future Actions

    Microsoft has expressed its intention to appeal the verdict, stating, "We firmly believe we did not infringe." IPA and Wi-LAN have yet to provide any public statements regarding the matter.

    IPA Technologies has a history of legal action in this domain, having previously sued Google and Amazon over comparable patents. Amazon effectively defended itself in 2021, whereas the case involving Google remains ongoing.

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  • OnePlus 12R Update: New Animations & UI Features Introduced

    OnePlus 12R Update: New Animations & UI Features Introduced

    OnePlus has recently introduced several enhancements in its smartphone updates aimed at improving the overall user experience. The most recent OxygenOS 14.0.0.701 update for the OnePlus 12R brings various new features, including animations, touch control improvements, and other enhancements to the user interface. Below is a detailed overview of the changes introduced in this update.

    New Features in OxygenOS 14.0.0.701 Update:

    The update includes a range of visual enhancements and improvements to the user experience:

    • New Smooth Animation:
      • Introduces wallpaper zoom and seamless icon transitions during app launch and exit, enhancing the visual experience.
      • Adds various animations such as wallpaper zoom, brightness transitions, and bounce effects for smoother interactions.
      • Optimizes transition animations for Home screen icons, widgets, and device unlock actions.
      • Enhances visual effects in Quick Settings, Notification drawer, Home screen drawer, and Global Search.
    • New Touch Control Experience:
      • Adds transition animations for smoother app navigation and interactions.
      • Improves touch control responsiveness, making tapping, swiping, and app usage more efficient and stable.
      • Enhances touch responsiveness for various scenarios like opening and closing apps, navigating recent tasks, and using gesture controls.
      • Optimizes animations for usability in large folders and smoother app dragging on the Home screen.
    • System Enhancements:
      • Allows volume adjustment in Quick Settings.
      • Provides options to customize the Lock screen pattern and adjust floating window sizes.
      • Enhances system stability and integrates the latest Android security patch for improved security.

    Availability:

    The OxygenOS 14.0.0.701 update is currently accessible in North America, with plans to expand its availability to other regions in the near future. Users can expect these new features to enhance their OnePlus 12R experience significantly.

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  • Vivo and iQOO Devices Eligible for Android 15 Update

    Vivo and iQOO Devices Eligible for Android 15 Update

    Android 15 is set to debut later this year, generating significant anticipation among users eager for the new features it promises. In a recent blog post, the top 10 upcoming features of Android 15 were highlighted, offering a glimpse into what users can expect from the latest OS update.

    Eligible Devices for Android 15 Update

    As the release of Android 15 approaches, it's essential to ensure that your device is prepared for the upcoming OS upgrade. Vivo and iQOO have unveiled a list of devices eligible for the Android 15 update, providing users with a preview of what to expect.

    Vivo Devices Eligible for Android 15 Update

    • Vivo X series
    • Vivo V series
    • Vivo T series
    • Vivo Y series
    • Vivo S series
    • Vivo Pad series

    iQOO Devices Eligible for Android 15 Update

    • iQOO number series
    • iQOO Neo series
    • iQOO Z series
    • iQOO Pad series

    Please note that this list is subject to updates, as Vivo is yet to release its official roster of Android 15-supported devices. The selection criteria are based on the company's software policy and past update rollouts, ensuring an informed projection of eligible devices.

    Android 15 Release Timeline

    The development of Android 15 is progressing steadily, with multiple developer previews and beta builds already in circulation. The beta phase is expected to extend until June 2024, preceding the platform stability phase where Google addresses issues and refines the OS for its final release.

    While an official release date for Android 15 has not been confirmed, industry insiders suggest a potential announcement by Google in October, aligning with previous OS release patterns. Once the stable build is unveiled, OEMs like Vivo will integrate final customizations before initiating public rollouts, a process that may span from days to weeks.

    Exciting Features of Android 15

    Android 15 is poised to deliver a range of exciting enhancements, distinguishing itself from its predecessors with innovative features such as:

    • Satellite Connectivity Support: Enabling communication via satellite signals, expanding the reach of messaging capabilities.
    • Find My Phone Network: Enhancing device tracking and location services through a collaborative network of Android 15 devices.
    • Battery Health: Introducing a long-awaited feature that provides critical insights into battery performance and longevity.
    • App Archiving: Facilitating the preservation of app data even after uninstallation, promoting seamless user experiences.
    • Partial Screen Sharing: Allowing selective app screen sharing for enhanced privacy and convenience.
    • Notification Cooldown: Implementing a feature to manage notification volumes and prevent overload from repetitive alerts.

    For further insights into the top features of Android 15, refer to the detailed post on the new OS. Share your Vivo phone model and expectations regarding Android 15 in the comments section below.

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  • Latest OnePlus 11 Update: New Animations, Touch Controls

    Latest OnePlus 11 Update: New Animations, Touch Controls

    OnePlus Enhances OxygenOS with Latest Update

    In recent times, OnePlus has been dedicated to refining its OxygenOS operating system, introducing a variety of fresh features and enhancements to improve user experience. The latest release from the brand is the OxygenOS 14.0.0.701 update for the OnePlus 11 smartphone, bringing forth a comprehensive array of modifications and enhancements.

    OxygenOS 14.0.0.701 Changelog

    New Visual Enhancements

    • Introduces smooth animations, including wallpaper zoom and seamless icon transitions for enhanced visual fluidity.
    • Adds bounce animation effect for notifications and optimizes Quick Setting icons and widgets for a more refined visual appeal.
    • Optimizes transition animations for Home screen icons and widgets, along with wallpaper zoom animations during device unlock.
    • Enhances wallpaper zoom animations and brightness transitions for screen on/off events.
    • Improves background colors and blur effects across various interfaces like Quick Settings, Notification drawer, and Global Search.
    • Refines transition animations for Lock screen elements and optimizes Global Search entry and exit animations.

    Enhanced Touch Control Experience

    • Introduces transition animations for app exits and page navigation gestures.
    • Enables tapping the lower right corner of large folders to view additional apps.
    • Allows pulling down app icons in large folders for quicker app access.
    • Enhances touch responsiveness for smoother interactions on the Home screen and Recent tasks screen.
    • Improves touch responsiveness for various app usage scenarios and gestures, ensuring a faster and more stable experience.
    • Optimizes animations for better performance when using large folders on the Home screen.

    System Improvements

    • Adds a horizontal layout option for the Lock screen clock.
    • Enables users to hide the unlock pattern track on the Lock screen.
    • Allows volume adjustments directly from Quick Settings.
    • Provides the ability to resize floating windows by dragging their bottom and swipe up to close mini windows.
    • Enhances system stability and integrates the April 2024 Android security patch for enhanced security measures.

    This update is currently rolling out to users in India, with a global release scheduled in the near future. Users can expect the update to arrive gradually over the next week. Alternatively, users can manually check for the update by navigating to Settings > About Device > OxygenOS > Check for Update.

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  • Huawei to Switch to HarmonyOS, Ending Android App Support: Report

    Huawei to Switch to HarmonyOS, Ending Android App Support: Report

    Huawei is not solely focusing on hardware development in response to the U.S. trade ban but is also delving into software advancements with HarmonyOS Next, a new operating system that breaks away from Google's Android app support.

    Huawei's Shift to HarmonyOS Next

    A recent report by Nikkei Asia indicates that Huawei is poised to completely sever ties with Google's Android operating system this year, introducing HarmonyOS Next initially with the Huawei Mate 70 series smartphones.

    Features and App Expansion

    HarmonyOS Next boasts enhanced memory efficiency and on-device AI capabilities, but its success hinges on app availability. Presently hosting over 4,000 apps, including notable names like Alipay and McDonald's, Huawei aims to expand its library to 5,000 by the year's end and eventually reach 500,000 apps.

    Market Impact and Growth

    The positive reception of the Mate 60 series has spurred Chinese entities to collaborate with Huawei in app development for HarmonyOS Next. With successful launches of the Nova 12 series and the Huawei Pura 70 series, Huawei is predicted to sell 10 million Pura 70 handsets this year by TechInsights, with expectations of the Mate 70 series boosting sales further and reclaiming Huawei's position atop China's smartphone market.

    WeChat, a widely-used messaging app in China with a vast user base, holds substantial influence over the fate of HarmonyOS Next. Huawei's ability to garner support from major players like WeChat will be pivotal for the platform's sustainability within China.

    If HarmonyOS Next flourishes, it could emerge as a formidable competitor to Apple's iOS and Google's Android, ushering in a three-way rivalry for smartphone dominance. Yet, challenges lie ahead, and the effectiveness of Huawei's navigation through these obstacles will only be revealed with time.

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