Category: Software

  • Xiaomi 12 Series to Miss Key HyperOS Feature

    Xiaomi 12 Series to Miss Key HyperOS Feature

    Xiaomi has announced that its Xiaomi 12 series will not be receiving the eagerly awaited “Advanced Textures” feature, an integral part of its new HyperOS interface. This decision follows extensive testing which showed a notable compromise between visual improvements and overall device performance.

    Xiaomi 12 Not Receiving HyperOS’s Advanced Textures Feature

    HyperOS, the latest operating system from Xiaomi, aims to deliver an enhanced visual experience through features such as global blur and refined rendering effects. The advanced textures feature is intended to further elevate this aesthetic, offering users a more immersive and polished interface.

    However, Xiaomi’s developers faced challenges in optimizing this feature for the Xiaomi 12 series. The inclusion of advanced textures resulted in a significant 10% reduction in battery life, a critical concern for smartphone users. Additionally, the feature adversely affected the system’s fluidity, particularly in commonly used areas like the notification drop-down, leading to a performance drop exceeding 10%.

    Performance Over Visuals

    In light of these performance issues, Xiaomi has decided to exclude the Xiaomi 12 series from receiving the “Advanced Textures” feature. This decision underscores the company’s commitment to prioritizing battery life and overall system responsiveness, ensuring a balanced user experience.

    While this news may disappoint some fans of the Xiaomi 12 series, it underscores the challenges of balancing visual appeal with practical performance considerations in smartphone development.

    Rollout Plans for Other Devices

    Previously, this feature was only available on Xiaomi and Redmi flagship devices with powerful processors, including models like the Xiaomi 14, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Xiaomi 13, and Xiaomi 13 Pro. Xiaomi is now testing this feature on older and midrange devices and is gradually rolling it out to global users on compatible devices.

  • Access Circle to Search on Chrome Desktop Now Available

    Access Circle to Search on Chrome Desktop Now Available

    Google introduced the Circle to Search feature for select premium Android devices earlier this year in January. Currently, it has been expanded to desktop users as well, available in both ChromeOS and the Chrome browser. This feature facilitates easy searches based on visual content.

    Beta Availability

    Circle to Search is now accessible in the beta versions of ChromeOS and the Chrome browser for Windows and macOS. Specifically, it is available on ChromeOS 127 beta and Chrome 128 beta. It is anticipated to roll out to the general versions soon. The feature is named “Search with Google Lens” for Windows and macOS, whereas on ChromeOS, it is referred to as “Drag to Search.”

    Users on macOS or Windows with Chrome 128 beta can activate this feature by choosing “Search with Google Lens” from the overflow menu. This option can also be pinned to the side panel for quick access. On ChromeOS, users can initiate the feature by clicking the new Google Lens icon in the address bar.

    How It Works

    This feature allows desktop users to search for anything on their screen by simply dragging a box around the desired element. According to the release notes for Chrome 128 beta:

    “Google Lens in Chrome makes it easy to search anything you see on your screen. Search within a video you’re watching, a slide in a livestream, or an image on a webpage. Google Lens will give you answers right there, in your tab, and you can continue browsing with the new information you’ve found.”

    It’s expected that the feature will be included in the stable versions of Chrome for macOS and Windows in the next few weeks, making it accessible to all users as described.

  • Google Unveils Cross-Device Services for Seamless Casting

    Google Unveils Cross-Device Services for Seamless Casting

    Google has initiated efforts on “Cross-device services” to enhance user experience across multiple devices. This feature is currently being rolled out, so it may not be available on all devices immediately. Once available, it can be enabled on Android devices by navigating to Settings > Google > Devices & Sharing > Cross-Device.

    Seamless Integration Across Devices

    Cross-device services allow for seamless data transfers between devices signed into the same Google Account. As per images shared by 9to5Google, two major features under development are Call Casting and Internet Sharing (Instant Hotspot).

    The Call Casting feature enables users to transfer an ongoing video call to another device easily. This is currently limited to Google Meet calls, but future support for additional apps is expected. For instance, if you start a video call on your phone but prefer to continue it on a tablet with a larger screen, you can cast the call with a single tap without needing to end and rejoin the call.

    Instant Hotspot

    Instant Hotspot simplifies sharing your internet connection. By adding devices to the same Google Account, you can use the Instant Hotspot feature to share the internet without manually turning on the hotspot and entering a password on another device. A single tap will instantly share the internet connection without needing any password input.

    Google’s new Cross-Device Services are currently in beta and are being gradually rolled out to users. These can be accessed in Google Play Services version 24.28.34.

  • Honor Magic 5 Pro Gets Major MagicOS 8.0.0.155 Update

    Honor Magic 5 Pro Gets Major MagicOS 8.0.0.155 Update

    Honor has rolled out a significant update for its flagship Magic 5 Pro smartphone, bringing MagicOS 8.0.0.155 to the device. This latest update delivers a host of improvements centered on camera functionalities, multitasking capabilities, and overall system enhancements.

    Enhanced Camera Experience and UI Optimization

    Among the standout features of the update is a polished camera experience, which now includes new shooting modes such as light streamer shutter. The update also boosts smart capsule functionality, facilitating seamless app interaction with platforms like Meituan and Baidu. Furthermore, privacy features receive a boost with the introduction of parallel space anti-tracking. The device’s user interface is also refined, particularly the status bar and notification bar, to offer a more streamlined experience.

    System and Security Enhancements

    In addition to these features, the update tackles issues of abnormal power consumption and integrates the latest Android security patch. With these enhancements, Honor aims to elevate the overall user experience of the Magic 5 Pro. The update is currently being rolled out to users, and Honor is expected to continue refining the MagicOS experience with subsequent updates.

  • Google Redesigns Chrome Downloads with AI-Powered Safe Browsing

    Google Redesigns Chrome Downloads with AI-Powered Safe Browsing

    Google is enhancing the security aspects of Chrome by revamping its download experience. The browser will now use AI-powered Google Safe Browsing technology to distinguish between “suspicious files” and “dangerous documents.” This categorization will be indicated by different icons, colors, and text, making it easier for users to make informed decisions regarding their downloads.

    Enhanced Protection Mode

    Chrome users who have enabled Enhanced Protection mode will see an added benefit of automatic deep scanning of downloaded files. This feature removes the necessity for manual security checks, aiming to proactively prevent the download of malicious files.

    Improved Clarity and Consistency

    By making download warnings clearer and more consistent, Google aims to reduce the chances of users bypassing security measures, thereby enhancing overall online safety.

  • Access Android Phone Storage through Windows File Explorer

    Access Android Phone Storage through Windows File Explorer

    Microsoft is pushing forward with its integration of Windows and Android devices through a new feature currently being tested for Windows Insiders. This feature enables users to access their Android phone’s storage directly via the familiar File Explorer interface on Windows 11, offering a more seamless file management experience.

    In the past, integrating Android devices with Windows was mainly facilitated through the “Your Phone” app, which had limited capabilities for managing files. The new feature aims to provide a more streamlined experience, akin to managing local storage or external drives.

    Availability and Requirements

    This feature is included in the latest Windows Insider builds and is accessible across all channels—Dev, Beta, Release Preview, and the cutting-edge Canary channel. However, specific requirements must be met to use this feature.

    Firstly, your Android phone must be running Android 11 or later. Additionally, you need to be enrolled in the beta program for the “Link to Windows” app on your phone, with version 1.24071 or higher installed.

    On the Windows side, your PC must be running Windows 11 and be part of the Windows Insider Program, enrolled in any of the four Insider channels.

    Setup Instructions

    If you meet these criteria, you can set up this feature through the Windows Settings menu. Navigate to “Bluetooth & devices > Mobile Devices,” and select the “Manage devices” option. From there, grant your PC access to your phone, which will unlock the “Access in File Explorer” toggle. If the toggle isn’t available, it means the feature hasn’t been rolled out to your device yet.

    While this feature shows potential for enhancing Windows-Android integration, it remains uncertain whether it will be included in a stable release for all Windows 11 users. The Insider program frequently tests experimental features, which may be modified or discontinued before a broader release.

    Overall, this initiative marks another step by Microsoft to create a more unified experience for users who utilize both Windows and Android. The final decision on whether this feature will be fully integrated into Windows 11 will depend on user feedback and testing results during the Insider phase.

  • Meta Faces First Antitrust Fine from EU

    Meta Faces First Antitrust Fine from EU

    Meta Platforms, the parent entity of Facebook, is encountering its initial antitrust penalty from the European Union. The company is accused of integrating its classified advertising platform, Facebook Marketplace, with its primary social networking service, thereby providing Marketplace with an unjust competitive edge.

    The Fine Could Be Substantial, Up to $13.4 Billion

    The European Commission claims that Meta exploited its dominant market standing by imposing unfavorable conditions on rival online classified ad services that advertise on Facebook or Instagram. According to the EU, this behavior suppressed competition.

    Meta is potentially looking at a significant fine of up to $13.4 billion, which equates to 10% of its 2023 global revenue. The corporation has refuted the accusations, arguing that its practices benefit consumers and foster competition.

    Upcoming Decision

    The EU Commission is anticipated to deliver a final verdict in the forthcoming months, with a potential fine likely to be imposed before the current EU antitrust chief, Margrethe Vestager, steps down in November.

  • New One UI 7 Leak: Settings Icon Design Mirrors iOS

    New One UI 7 Leak: Settings Icon Design Mirrors iOS

    The steady influx of leaks about Samsung’s forthcoming One UI 7.0 update offers a glimpse into the potential redesign of the company’s Android interface. Earlier speculations pointed to significant modifications, including redesigned UI elements, animations, menus, settings, and a makeover of Samsung’s proprietary app icons.

    New Icon Designs

    Following previous leaks of updated Camera and Gallery icons, new screenshots shared by @chunvn8888 reveal additional icon changes. Despite the imperfect image quality, these screenshots give us some insight into the possible direction of the One UI 7.0 icon design.

    One of the most striking updates is the Samsung Internet icon, which now features a 90-degree rotation and a more vibrant color palette with subtle blue gradients. The Phone app icon has also been tweaked; according to SamMobile, it appears slightly fuller, resembling a pill shape.

    Mixed Reactions to Icon Changes

    The leaks show varied results for other icons. The Contacts icon remains largely unchanged, whereas the Settings icon undergoes a significant transformation, looking more like iOS style. The Clock icon also sees a redesign, now with a white background and clock hands pointing in nearly opposite directions.

    These leaks suggest a possible move away from Google’s Material Design principles, at least for app icons. This shift wouldn’t be entirely unexpected, as One UI already lets users transform most icons into flat, monochromatic versions.

    The new designs emphasize color over monochrome, and in some cases, introduce subtle gradients that hint at a three-dimensional effect, marking a clear departure from the flat aesthetic of Material Design.

    Additional Features and Functionality

    Beyond icons, rumors speculate about other new features in One UI 7.0. This includes a revamped home screen menu with more customization options and a potential feature similar to iOS’s Live Activities.

    Specifically, @UniverseIce suggests that Samsung might add functionality that displays extra information through the status bar’s pill-shaped area during phone calls.

    It’s crucial to remember that these are just leaks. Even if the leaked icons are accurate, there’s no assurance they will appear in the final release of One UI 7.0. The beta program is expected to start next month, and we’ll provide thorough coverage of the firmware and beta participation process.


  • Apple Maps Now Available on Windows and Linux Systems

    Apple Maps Now Available on Windows and Linux Systems

    Apple is a company that generally keeps its premium software exclusive to its own devices. Nevertheless, Apple Music is accessible on both Android and Windows, and the app for these platforms showcases a sleek design. Similarly, FaceTime, Apple’s video calling application, was initially exclusive to Apple devices. With the release of iOS 15, Apple allowed calls to be made with Android users. After much anticipation, Apple Maps is now available on non-Apple devices. The Apple Maps Beta has been released as a platform-independent website.

    Apple Maps Beta Interface

    Users can now access Apple Maps from computers running Windows or Linux operating systems. It is important to note that Apple Maps is not yet functional on Android devices. Apple has not developed a separate client for Windows or Linux. Instead, the maps can be accessed through the Beta website. Attempts to use Apple Maps on an Android device were unsuccessful, as Apple has restricted the service to desktop web browsers only.

    Apple Maps Doesn’t Work on Android Smartphones

    The newly launched website does not function as smoothly as it does on Apple devices but is still worth trying.

    Apple Maps Now Available on Windows and Linux Systems
  • Honor X9b Android 14 MagicOS 8.0 Update: New AI Features

    Honor X9b Android 14 MagicOS 8.0 Update: New AI Features

    HONOR has initiated the rollout of the MagicOS 8.0 OTA update for HONOR X9b users in India. Following a beta testing phase, the update is now available for all HONOR X9b devices, introducing new AI capabilities and improved security features.

    What’s New in MagicOS 8.0

    MagicOS 8.0 introduces a redesigned UI that leverages AI for a more intuitive user experience, driven by HONOR’s on-device AI model, MagicLM.

    AI Features:

    • Magic Capsule: Facilitates easy access to calls, alarms, and notifications.
    • Magic Portal: Assists in navigating to relevant apps based on message context.
    • Magic Ring: Simplifies multitasking across up to 8 devices.
    • Magic Lock Screen & Parallel Spaces: Offers a full-screen Always on Display and isolated contact spaces for enhanced privacy.
    • AI Smart Folders & AI Blur: Automatically organizes apps and blurs sensitive information to maintain privacy.

    Improvements:

    • Smooth Animations: Enhances the visual experience with seamless animations.
    • Custom Camera Layout: Allows users to relocate frequently used camera modes for easier access.
    • Enhanced ViLTE’s Video Calling: Boosts video call quality.

    Practical Updates:

    • Ultra Power Saving Mode: Prolongs battery life.
    • 5G Roaming: Ensures stable connectivity during travel.

    Security: Incorporates the latest Android June 2024 security patches.

    Update Availability

    The update is currently being rolled out, and all HONOR X9b users in India can now access it. To check for and install the update:

    1. Go to Settings > System & updates > Software update
    2. Tap on “Check for Updates”

    Xiaomi 14 Civi Limited Edition Launch

    In related news, the Xiaomi 14 Civi Limited Edition featuring a Panda Design is set to launch in India on July 29, 2024. This variant will offer new mirror glass and vegan leather options, available in Pink, Monochrome, and Blue. It is expected to come with up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. It shares features with the base model, including a 6.55-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC, 4,700mAh battery with 67W fast charging, a 50MP triple rear camera, and a 32MP front camera.