Category: Software

  • Garmin Updates Budget Watches with New Watch Faces

    Garmin Updates Budget Watches with New Watch Faces

    Garmin has been quite active as the month wraps up, having launched new updates for several devices, including the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, Forerunner 165, Instinct Crossover, Instinct 2, Vivoactive 5, and Venu 3 series. The latest addition to this list is the Lily 2, currently priced at $244.99 on Amazon, thanks to a recent update.

    Update Details

    Recently, Garmin upgraded the Lily 2 from software version 4.14 to 5.13, implementing a variety of changes. It’s worth noting that the Lily 2 hybrid smartwatch was unveiled at the beginning of 2024, available in both regular and Classic versions. While both models feature the same hardware with 1.00-inch x 0.84-inch displays, only the Classic version is equipped with Garmin Pay.

    New Features

    According to Garmin, the new Software Version 5.14 introduces additional watch faces to the Lily 2. However, the company did not provide further details in their forum announcement. The update is reportedly available for all compatible devices. If your device hasn’t received it yet, you can manually download Software Version 5.14 using Garmin Express or Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM). For more information, refer to the company’s forum post.

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  • Funtouch OS 15 Now Available: Compatible Vivo & iQOO Devices List

    Funtouch OS 15 Now Available: Compatible Vivo & iQOO Devices List

    Vivo has introduced Funtouch OS 15, a significant update built on Android 15, which aims to enhance user experience by making it smoother and more tailored. This new version comes packed with performance improvements, fresh customization options, and better productivity features.

    Enhancements in Performance and Fluidity

    Funtouch OS 15 is designed to prioritize speed and seamless operation. It integrates a Priority Scheduling model that accelerates app launches by 15% by focusing on tasks running in the foreground. Additionally, the update includes Memory Enhancement Technology that employs an optimized zRAM compression method, enhancing compression speed by 40% and reducing GPU memory usage for background applications, leading to improved multitasking capabilities.

    Moreover, the update enhances animations, with the Origin Animation feature contributing to a more fluid interface. The Lightning-Speed Engine also aims to increase app launch speeds by an additional 20%. To enhance visual appeal, the Aqua Dynamic Effect draws inspiration from natural movements, providing a fresh interaction experience.

    Customization Options for Users

    With Funtouch OS 15, users gain access to over 3,800 redesigned elements for device personalization. This includes new system themes, wallpapers (static, immersive, and video), and options to alter the style and size of app icons. Users can select from nine different system themes to give their phones a new appearance.

    In addition, new fingerprint recognition animations have been introduced, enabling users to customize the look of their devices further.

    Productivity Features for Enhanced Efficiency

    The newly added AI Image Lab offers tools for automatic photo enhancement and shadow removal from document scans, streamlining the editing process. It also features the Memory Movie capability for improved management of photos and videos.

    For gaming enthusiasts, the Ultra Game Mode allows effortless access to game settings without disrupting gameplay. The Link to Windows feature facilitates an easy connection between a Vivo device and a PC, supporting real-time content synchronization and file sharing.

    Timeline for Funtouch OS 15 Rollout

    The Beta version of Funtouch OS 15 will first be available for the iQOO 12 in India. Other Vivo models are set to receive the update starting in mid-October 2024, continuing until June 2025. Vivo has provided a detailed rollout schedule for each device.

    Here’s the rollout schedule for the Android 15 Beta update:

    Vivo Smartphones

    • Mid-October 2024: X Fold3 Pro, X100 Pro, X100.
    • Mid-November 2024: X90 Pro, X90.
    • Mid-December 2024: V40 series, V30 series, Y200 Pro 5G, T3 Ultra, and more.
    • Mid-January 2025: X80 series, V27 series, T3 Pro 5G, T3 5G.
    • Mid-February 2025: Y300 5G, Y200 Plus 5G, T3x 5G.
    • Mid-March 2025: Y200e 5G, Y100 series, T2 Pro 5G, T2 5G.
    • Mid-April 2025: Y200 5G.
    • Mid-May 2025: Y58 5G, Y56 5G, Y29 5G, and others.
    • Mid-June 2025: Y36, Y28 5G.

    iQOO Smartphones

    • Mid-October 2024: iQOO 12
    • Mid-November 2024: iQOO 11
    • Mid-December 2024: iQOO Neo9 Pro
    • Mid-January 2025: iQOO 9 Pro, iQOO 9T, iQOO Z9s Pro 5G, iQOO Z9s 5G, iQOO Z9 5G
    • Mid-February 2025: iQOO Neo7 Pro, iQOO Neo7, iQOO Z9x 5G
    • Mid-March 2025: iQOO Z7 Pro 5G, iQOO Z7 5G, iQOO Z7s 5G
    • Mid-May 2025: iQOO Z9 Lite 5G
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  • What to Expect from OxygenOS 15: Key Features and Updates

    What to Expect from OxygenOS 15: Key Features and Updates

    OnePlus is set to unveil its latest version of the custom software, OxygenOS 15, soon. The beta program is likely to begin this month or early next month, with a stable version expected to roll out around November. Thanks to various leaks, we already have insights into the new features and changes that OxygenOS 15, based on Android 15, will bring.

    What Can You Anticipate in OxygenOS 15?

    1. Updated Control Center
    Although Android 15 itself doesn’t feature many UI changes, OxygenOS 15 aims to enhance this area significantly. The redesigned control center may take inspiration from iOS and HyperOS. It is rumored to include two large toggles at the top, similar to HyperOS, a 2×2 media player, a 1×2 brightness slider, and a 1×2 volume panel below that. Additionally, numerous 1×1 circular toggles for quick settings are expected.

    This control center is designed to be a single scrollable page with customizable options, allowing users to rearrange icons and hide or show specific settings, similar to the capabilities in iOS 18. Users can also easily revert to the previous layout if desired. Furthermore, OxygenOS 15 might separate the control center from the notification area, where swiping down from the right reveals the control center and swiping from the left shows notifications.

    2. The Return of the Never Settle Easter Egg
    Long-time OnePlus fans may be pleased to see the comeback of the Never Settle easter egg in this update. Users can activate this feature by typing ‘1+’ in the Calculator app and hitting the equals button (‘=’).

    3. iOS-Inspired Enhancements
    OxygenOS 15 might introduce features reminiscent of iOS, such as a Dynamic Island-like function, which would position new screen details at the center punch hole instead of the left side. The Camera app may also see a return of the Live Photos feature, allowing users to capture short video clips alongside photos, akin to iOS’s offering. Additionally, the volume slider is rumored to be redesigned to mimic iOS, starting large and narrowing upon further presses.

    Customizations and Battery Features

    4. Lock Screen Personalization
    Expect several customization options for the lock screen in OxygenOS 15, potentially including a 3D lock screen. Users may have the ability to change the size, position, color, and font of the lock screen clock, with various presets available.

    5. Video Battery Saver
    An intriguing new feature named “Video battery saver” has been identified in early Android 15 builds. This feature aims to optimize battery consumption when using specific video applications. While it may extend battery life, it could slightly impact the video-watching experience.

    In addition to OnePlus’s enhancements, the upcoming update will incorporate numerous features from Android 15.

    New Features from Android 15

    6. Satellite Connectivity Support
    Android 15 will include satellite connectivity support, allowing users to send text messages without cellular coverage, as long as they have a clear view of the sky. This feature may require special hardware and carrier support, enabling SMS, MMS, and RCS apps to utilize satellite functionality.

    7. Theft Detection Lock
    One of the standout features introduced in Android 15 is the theft detection lock, designed to safeguard user data and deter device theft. This feature employs Google’s AI to recognize if a phone has been stolen and will lock the device automatically to prevent unauthorized access. Even if a thief performs a factory reset, they won’t be able to activate the device without the original Google account details.

    8. Split App Pairs
    Another useful addition is the ability to create shortcuts for favorite pairs of split-screen applications, enhancing usability on larger devices.

    9. App Archiving
    Android 15 will also allow users to uninstall apps while retaining user data, similar to the offloading feature on iPhones. This means there will be no data loss, and users can pick up right where they left off after reinstalling the app. While app archiving is already available via the Google Play Store, Android 15 aims to integrate this feature at the OS level, enabling users to archive or restore apps from any source.

    10. AI Innovations
    As with every major update, OxygenOS 15 will feature new AI capabilities. While the specifics are still unclear, some enhancements will come from OnePlus’s development, while others will be part of Android 15.

    There will likely be many more features and improvements in OxygenOS 15, which we will discover upon its official release.

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  • Galaxy Devices Eligible for 7 Android Updates: Complete List

    Galaxy Devices Eligible for 7 Android Updates: Complete List

    While many Android brands limit their devices to a maximum of four Android updates, Samsung stands out by offering an impressive seven years of Android and feature updates for its premium models. This sets a new standard for Android device update policies.

    New Update Policy with Galaxy S24 Series

    Samsung rolled out this updated policy with the launch of the Galaxy S24 series earlier this year. Since then, numerous Galaxy devices have benefited from this commitment. Although there hasn’t been any official word on software support for future models, it is expected that all upcoming flagship Galaxy phones and tablets will receive seven generations of Android updates along with security patches for a full seven years.

    Devices Covered Under the Update Policy

    Here’s a list of Samsung Galaxy devices currently included in this new update plan:

    This list is still limited as Samsung has not yet applied the new update policy to older Galaxy models. However, it is likely to expand as the company introduces more high-end smartphones and tablets.

    Current Android Version and Future Updates

    All devices mentioned above come pre-installed with Android 14, meaning their last major Android upgrade will be Android 21. They will continue to receive One UI feature updates and security patches until 2031.

    Samsung is not the only company providing seven years of Android upgrades; Google was the pioneer in this area. However, Samsung is poised to serve more users due to its faster release of flagship devices and its wider market presence.

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  • OriginOS 5 Internal Beta Testing Starts: Eligible Devices List

    OriginOS 5 Internal Beta Testing Starts: Eligible Devices List

    Vivo is preparing to launch the OriginOS 5 custom skin at the 2024 Vivo Developer Conference happening in Shenzhen on October 10. The company has started internal beta testing for this new version today. The registration window runs from 11:00 AM CST on September 25 to 11:59 PM CST on October 6.

    Enhancements in OriginOS 5

    OriginOS 5 introduces a variety of detailed dynamic effects that enhance smoothness, wallpapers with depth of field, personalized lock screen widgets, fresh lock screen wallpapers, a centrally positioned interface similar to Dynamic Island, and improved AI integration. The new version reportedly provides a "system-level" and "scenario-based" experience, powered by a self-developed large language model that is multimodal and encompasses various aspects such as language, voice, vision, and terminal side functions.

    Eligible Devices for Internal Beta Testing

    The Vivo devices eligible for the internal beta testing of OriginOS 5 include:

    • vivo X100
    • vivo X100s
    • vivo X100 Pro
    • vivo X100s Pro
    • vivo X100 Ultra
    • vivo X Fold3
    • vivo X Fold3 Pro

    For iQOO devices, the following models can participate:

    • iQOO 12
    • iQOO 12 Pro
    • iQOO Neo9
    • iQOO Neo9 Pro
    • iQOO Neo9S Pro
    • iQOO Neo9S Pro+

    A preliminary limit of 2,000 participants will be set for each model’s internal testing, with 300 accounts having login access by default and 1,700 without. The final number of participants will be determined based on various factors, including registration and the completeness of submitted information. The list of beta testers is expected to be released by 10:00 PM CST on October 8, and the deadline for joining the beta program is 8:00 PM CST on October 9.

    Important Notes for Participants

    Users interested in the internal beta program must ensure their device is updated to the required version or a later version to detect the beta test version. They can find the registration option through System Upgrade – Internal Test Registration to apply. It is advised that users refrain from backing up their data and exercise caution, as the software is still in the internal beta stage.

    Additionally, here’s the complete list of vivo and iQOO devices that will receive the Android 15 update.

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  • Nothing OS 3.0 Launches with Visual Upgrades and AI Feature

    Nothing OS 3.0 Launches with Visual Upgrades and AI Feature

    Nothing has broadened its audio product lineup by introducing the new Nothing Ear (open) TWS earphones yesterday. Additionally, the company is focusing on incorporating AI into its operating system, along with enhancing performance and making some visual updates.

    Nothing OS 3.0 Redesigned Widgets

    Carl Pei, the founder of Nothing, along with Yuri Levin, the Software Product Design Lead, presented the features of the forthcoming Nothing OS 3.0 on the company’s YouTube channel. This comes after a teaser for the new operating system that was released earlier this year.

    Key Improvements in Nothing OS 3.0

    Nothing OS 3.0 will introduce a variety of enhancements, including a redesign of the Android skin and the long-awaited launch of a first-party “Nothing Gallery” app. Managing a multitude of apps can be overwhelming, especially when scrolling through a large array of app icons. To address this issue, Nothing OS 3.0 will allow users to pin their favorite apps at the top for easier access.

    Moreover, Nothing is enhancing the Smart Drawer App with AI capabilities. This feature sorts your apps into various categories. Although this seems like a familiar function, Nothing asserts that the AI will analyze your app usage data to present the most relevant apps at the optimal time. A new countdown widget has also been added to help users manage their time effectively.

    Visual Refinements and New Features

    The visual updates include a more polished design with revamped elements such as the Quick Settings panel and the lock screen clock. The auto-brightness feature is now incorporated into the brightness slider button. Additionally, a new dot animation has been introduced, utilizing a new animation engine for smoother and more dynamic visual effects across the operating system, including animations for fingerprint recognition and charging.

    Furthermore, the weather icon in the Weather app has been redesigned with a dot matrix style, aligning better with the overall aesthetic of the user interface.

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  • OnePlus and Oppo Partner with Spotify for In-App Gaming Feature

    OnePlus and Oppo Partner with Spotify for In-App Gaming Feature

    Music and mobile gaming often go hand-in-hand, but switching between apps to control playback can disrupt the flow. In a move to streamline this experience, OnePlus and Oppo have partnered with Spotify to introduce a new in-app gaming overlay.

    New Overlay for Seamless Experience

    According to a recent post on X (formerly Twitter) by Pete Lau, chief product officer at OPPO and founder of OnePlus, select users will gain access to a unique overlay within the Spotify app. This feature allows you to play games on your mobile device while controlling your music playback at the same time.

    Essentially, you won’t need to toggle back and forth between the Spotify app and your game to change the volume, skip songs, or pause your music. This update could significantly enhance convenience for those who enjoy listening to music while playing their favorite mobile games.

    Streamlining User Experience

    The main goal here seems to be improving the experience for users who like to game with music in the background. Both OnePlus and OPPO are optimistic that integrating these functionalities into a single interface will make the experience smoother for users.

    However, there is a small catch: it remains uncertain which regions will initially have access to this new feature. Currently, the rollout appears to be limited, with more information about availability in different markets expected to be announced soon.

    A New Trend in Mobile Features

    This collaboration between OnePlus, OPPO, and Spotify represents a fresh approach to blending music streaming with mobile gaming. It may pave the way for new trends in smartphone feature development and cross-app functionalities.

    If you have a OnePlus or OPPO device and live in a region where this update is available, be on the lookout for the new overlay option in your Spotify app. Once it’s accessible, you can dive into the gaming tools and music control features it provides and assess how they improve your entertainment experience on the go.

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  • Amazfit Launches Beta Testing for New Zepp App

    Amazfit Launches Beta Testing for New Zepp App

    Users of the Amazfit Balance have the opportunity to participate in a beta test for a new version of the Zepp app. This beta testing initiative was revealed in a recent Facebook post by a member of the Amazfit team, who also shared a sign-up link.

    Feedback and Expectations

    Amazfit encourages users of the Balance smartwatch who join the testing to offer their feedback through the app. The sign-up form includes a warning that participants might encounter “incomplete features, bugs, or other unforeseen software issues.” While Amazfit has not officially disclosed the updates in this new app version, several early testers have already provided their opinions along with screenshots.

    New Features and Design

    The revamped app seems to feature a more streamlined design, which should enhance user navigation. Additionally, a new meal logging function has been introduced: users can now upload photos of their meals, and the app utilizes AI to identify the food and log nutritional information accordingly. It remains uncertain if or when users of other Amazfit smartwatch models will have the chance to join the beta program. The timeline for the public release of the updated Zepp app is also not yet clear.

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  • Garmin to Resolve Activity Crashes and Detection Issues in Update

    Garmin to Resolve Activity Crashes and Detection Issues in Update

    Garmin has had a very active month with numerous software updates. The company continues to enhance its existing smartwatches, such as the Fenix 7, by adding new features and fixing bugs. Additionally, Garmin has begun rolling out firmware upgrades for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8, which were all launched earlier this month.

    Update Details

    The recent updates for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 aim to address issues like high battery consumption, with detailed information available separately. In contrast, the Forerunner 965 has received a newer update that focuses on bug fixes that might not be immediately noticeable. Software Version 20.29 is the second stable update for the Forerunner 965 this month, following Software Version 20.26, which was released around two weeks ago.

    Improvements and Fixes

    Software Version 20.26 introduced over a dozen enhancements for the Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $495 on Amazon). In comparison, the recent Software Version 20.29 targets two specific bugs. This update aims to resolve a problem that could lead to a crash when beginning an activity. Furthermore, it addresses an issue where incident detection would remain active even after an activity had concluded. If your Forerunner 965 is still using an older version of the firmware, you can initiate the download for Software Version 20.29 by navigating to Menu, System, Software Update, and then selecting ‘Check For Updates’.

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  • Ubuntu 24.10 Beta Features GNOME 47 and Exciting Updates

    Ubuntu 24.10 Beta Features GNOME 47 and Exciting Updates

    Expected to launch in the first half of October, Ubuntu 24.10 "Oracular Oriole" will introduce multiple new features along with some celebratory elements. This is in honor of the 20th anniversary of the initial Ubuntu release, 4.10 "Warty Warthog," which debuted in October 2004. For those eager to try out Ubuntu 24.10 before its official release, a beta version was made available at the end of last week.

    New Features and Updates

    As Ubuntu 21.40 incorporates GNOME 47, it also includes several updated GNOME applications. With the addition of native accent colors in GNOME 47, users will experience a more cohesive visual style across all core applications and third-party software. The Nautilus file manager has received a visual refresh, now featuring an info button that provides updates during searches in non-indexed folders and remote shares, which typically take longer to process. This info button displays the current progress of the search. Additionally, the Disk Usage Analyzer has a new interface. On the technical side, there are improvements such as Sysprof, a new default utility for identifying performance problems, among other enhancements.

    More Information and Resources

    For those wanting to dive deeper into the changes coming with Ubuntu 24.10, detailed information can be found in the official release notes. The various Ubuntu flavors set to receive updates include Edubuntu, Kubuntu, Lubuntu, Budgie, MATE, Studio, Unity, Xubuntu, Kylin, and Cinnamon. New users interested in Ubuntu Server might consider getting "Mastering Ubuntu 24.04: The Ultimate Technical Guide to Linux Administration: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS ‘Noble Numbat’." This resource is currently available for $9.99 in Kindle format (60% off the regular price of $24.90) or in paperback for $24.90.

    Ubuntu Fridge

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