Category: Software

March 10, 2024
Your Top Sites Are Now Apps! Chrome 124 Lets You Escape the Browser
Remember Chrome Apps, those convenient shortcuts resembling apps for your favorite websites that disappeared in 2023? Google has introduced a replacement: Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). PWAs act as web apps blurring the distinction between websites and native apps, providing an app-like experience without requiring downloads from the app store. Chrome Canary now advances PWAs by enabling you to install any website as a desktop app!
Enhanced Web Experience
With just one click on the app icon, you can launch the website in its separate window. This advancement allows you to convert any frequently visited website into a dedicated app on your desktop. Say goodbye to searching through browser tabs – simply click on the app icon, and the site opens in its exclusive window, prepared for immediate use.
Simplified Installation Process
Previously, activating PWA capabilities involved modifying flags. However, with the recent Canary update, a new "Install page as app…" choice emerges in the "Save and share" menu. By selecting this option, a distinct app window is created for the website. Even established PWAs like YouTube will now showcase their names ("Install YouTube") in the menu.
To test this feature, download Chrome Canary and activate these flags:
- chrome://flags/#web-app-universal-install
- chrome://flags/#shortcuts-not-apps
This functionality is currently available in Chrome Canary (an early edition of Chrome 124). The stable Chrome version (122) concentrates on AI writing and Read Aloud tools for Android. The forthcoming stable release (Chrome 123) introduces a built-in PDF reader for Android, an Android-style media player for desktops, and improved tab group sharing.
Tags: Chrome Canary, Progressive web apps, Web App Installation
March 8, 2024
Google releases Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 update fixing issues and bricking Pixel phones
Google's software updates are on a fast track once again! Following the recent Pixel Feature Drop, the company has introduced Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 for eligible Pixel devices, starting from the Pixel 5a and newer models.
Bug Fixes in Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 Update
The latest beta version aims to address various issues that users encountered with the initial QPR3 beta release. These fixes include resolving device crashes during specific events such as app updates or user switching, as well as solving problems like displays failing to wake after a reboot, malfunctions in the always-on display feature, and missing battery status information. Moreover, backup and restore processes are expected to function correctly with this update.
Bricking Concerns with Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2
Despite the improvements, a significant risk accompanies these fixes. Reports from sources like 9to5Google indicate that sideloading Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 could potentially soft-brick Pixel devices, rendering them unable to boot properly. This issue extends even to Google's upcoming flagship devices, the Pixel 8 Pro and the foldable Pixel Fold.
While the allure of immediate bug fixes may be tempting, it is advisable to refrain from sideloading the update at this time. Opting for the OTA (over-the-air) update seems to avoid the bricking problem. In case sideloading becomes necessary, AndroidPolice recommends enabling the 'OEM Unlock' option in the device's developer settings as a precautionary measure.
Given the risks involved, it is advisable to avoid sideloading for now, especially if your Pixel device serves as your primary gadget.
Tags: bug fixes, Pixel devices, software updates
March 7, 2024
Google One UK: Get Fitbit Premium & Nest Aware Included at No Extra Cost
Google One, the subscription-based cloud storage service, is introducing additional benefits for UK consumers subscribed to the Premium plan. Customers on this plan can now access Fitbit Premium and Nest Aware at no additional cost.
Enhanced Benefits for UK Consumers
Google One not only offers cloud storage options starting at 100GB and scaling up to 30TB but also includes various perks and features. These include a VPN available across all plans, family sharing for up to five members, Google Photos editing tools, and Google Play credits. The highest-tier plan, the 2TB AI Premium Plan, also grants access to Gemini Advanced.
New Services Added for UK Subscribers
In a recent update, Google One has included two new services for subscribers in the UK. Specifically, users on the 2TB Premium Plan can now access Fitbit Premium and Nest Aware without any additional charges.
The company confirmed this news, stating that "Fitbit Premium & Nest Aware are currently included with Google One Premium plans in the UK."
Value Addition for UK Users
This addition of Fitbit Premium and Nest Aware is a substantial value proposition for users, as these services typically cost $9.99 and $8 per month, respectively. Additionally, UK customers can upgrade their Nest Aware to Nest Aware Plus for £5.99 per month, saving them over the standard $15 per month cost.
Fitbit Premium provides personalized insights, breakdown of sleep scores, monthly sleep profiles, and wellness reports based on Fitbit statistics. On the other hand, Nest Aware is a subscription service for Nest products that keeps users informed about important events at home.
While UK users can now enjoy these new benefits, it remains unclear whether these additional Google One perks will be extended to subscribers in other countries.
Tags: Fitbit Premium, Google One, Nest Aware
March 6, 2024
Microsoft ends support for Android apps on Windows 11
In a surprising turn of events, Microsoft has revealed that it will cease its support for Android applications on Windows 11 starting March 5th, 2025. This decision specifically impacts the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), a crucial component for running Android apps on the Windows 11 platform.
Introduction of WSA Feature
Initially launched in 2021, the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) enabled users to seamlessly access and utilize Android apps, either through direct loading or acquisition from the Amazon App Store. This feature quickly gained traction among users, but its future now appears uncertain.
Microsoft’s Cutback Decision
The announcement of the discontinuation of WSA support emerged recently through an update in developer documentation. This alteration understandably affects the Amazon Appstore on Windows and all applications or games reliant on WSA functionality.
Implications for Users and Developers
Microsoft’s decision implies that starting from March 5th, 2024, users will no longer be able to install new Android applications via the Amazon Appstore on Windows 11. However, individuals with existing apps can continue using them until March 5th, 2025, with updates accessible until that time. The aftermath post this date remains unclear, leaving the possibility of apps ceasing to function or losing official support.
Amazon has also verified the discontinuation of support, indicating that developers will be unable to submit new apps intended for Windows 11 after March 5th, 2024. Developers with existing apps can continue to provide updates until the Amazon Appstore on Windows 11 is terminated.
Uncertain Future for Android Apps on Windows 11
Microsoft’s resolution regarding Android apps on Windows 11 has left their future uncertain. While the company has not disclosed official reasons for terminating WSA support, potential factors could include the limited adoption of the service or technical obstacles.
For users keen on utilizing Android apps on Windows, reverting to using third-party Android emulators may become the way forward.
Tags: Android apps, Microsoft, Windows 11 Updates
March 5, 2024
Shenzhen’s Plan to Boost HarmonyOS Apps for Huawei
Shenzhen, known for being the birthplace of Huawei Technologies and a thriving center for technological innovation in China, has revealed its annual strategy to boost the growth of native applications for HarmonyOS, the operating system endorsed by the Chinese tech giant.
The city of Shenzhen aims to strengthen the ecosystem surrounding HarmonyOS by enhancing the supply capacity of HarmonyOS apps, promoting the clustering of HarmonyOS-original app industries, and refining the overall HarmonyOS app industry ecosystem. This comprehensive plan, unveiled on March 2nd, demonstrates Shenzhen's dedication to supporting Huawei's software development initiatives.
Shenzhen's Initiative for HarmonyOS Development
The latest release of HarmonyOS Next, introduced by Huawei on January 18th, represents a significant step towards independence by moving away from apps designed for Google's Android platform. This shift has led to a surge in the creation of HarmonyOS-native apps, with almost half of China's top 200 apps now transitioning and intensifying their focus in this direction.
Driving Innovation in Software Ecosystem
Experts believe that Shenzhen's strategic plan will bring about substantial enhancements in the HarmonyOS software ecosystem. The plan not only aims to facilitate the growth of HarmonyOS-native apps but also aims to explore new application scenarios, tackle technical challenges, and ensure the security of Chinese data and industries.
Shenzhen has set specific objectives for HarmonyOS development this year, including increasing the number of HarmonyOS-native apps to over 10% of China's total, ensuring full coverage across key domains, and nurturing a skilled pool of HarmonyOS developers representing over 15% of the nation's total workforce. Additionally, the city plans to create two or more specialized industrial parks dedicated to HarmonyOS-native software development and application, while also certifying over 1,000 software firms with HarmonyOS development credentials.
To promote and facilitate these endeavors, Shenzhen intends to reward relevant software companies, support the release of HarmonyOS-native apps by public service systems and state-owned enterprises, and promote the integration of such apps in emerging areas like aerospace satellites, smart homes, and intelligent vehicles. Financial institutions are encouraged to offer services to HarmonyOS-native app firms, and universities will receive subsidies for training HarmonyOS engineers and professionals.
Market analyses project a bright future for HarmonyOS, with Tech Insights predicting its rise to become the second-largest operating system in the Chinese smartphone market, trailing only behind Android. This forecast highlights the increasing momentum behind Huawei's efforts to promote HarmonyOS adoption, signaling a shifting landscape in China's tech industry.
Tags: Huawei, Huawei HarmonyOS, Shenzhen Yinwang Intelligent Technology
March 5, 2024
OnePlus 10 Pro & 10R Update to OxygenOS 14.0.0.500 with Feb 2024 Security Patch
OnePlus has commenced the rollout of updates for its OnePlus 10 Pro and 10R smartphones in India, focusing on enhancing security and performance through the latest OxygenOS software.
OnePlus 10 Pro Update: OxygenOS 14.0.0.500
The OxygenOS 14.0.0.500 update for the OnePlus 10 Pro introduces the February 2024 Android security patch, enhancing the device's protection against potential vulnerabilities. This update also addresses app crash issues, fixes problems related to NFC functionality, and includes improvements in the weather app and photo albums. Users will now have the ability to customize how dates are displayed in settings. The firmware version for this update is NE2211_14.0.0.500(EX01).
Changelog
System
- Integration of the February 2024 Android security patch for enhanced system security.
- Improved system stability and performance.
- Resolution of app crash concerns.
Connections
- Fix for NFC access card issues.
Apps
- Enhanced weather details viewing experience.
- Addition of a year/month/day switch in Settings.
- Fixes for photo album and in-game floating keyboard display issues.
OnePlus 10R Update: OxygenOS 14.0.0.500
The OnePlus 10R is also receiving the OxygenOS 14.0.0.500 update, which includes the February 2024 Android security patch. Two versions of this update are available: one for the Endurance edition (CPH2411_14.0.0.500(EX01)) and one for the standard model (CPH2423_14.0.0.500(EX01)). Changes in this update include a new option for displaying the screen recording indicator and the removal of the Background stream feature from Smart Sidebar. Similar to the OnePlus 10 Pro update, users can now adjust date views in the settings.
Changelog
System
- Option to display the screen recording indicator in a floating window or the status bar.
- Integration of the February 2024 Android security patch.
- Removal of the Background stream feature from Smart Sidebar.
Apps
- Addition of a year/month/day switch in Settings.
OnePlus will be deploying these updates gradually, starting with a limited group of users and expanding the release to more individuals over the upcoming days. In case of any issues post-update, OnePlus has provided a method to report problems by dialing *#800# on the Google Dialer.
Tags: Oneplus, OxygenOS 14 Update, software updates
March 5, 2024
OnePlus February 2024 Security Update: Live with Performance Boosts
The OnePlus Open, OnePlus' inaugural foldable phone, is undergoing an update in India. This fresh software iteration, labeled OxygenOS 14.0.0.501, introduces the Android security patch for February 2024 and implements various enhancements to the device.
This update, named OxygenOS 14.0.0.501, is being gradually released to OnePlus Open users in India. It introduces firmware version CPH2551_14.0.0.501(EX01) with the goal of augmenting device stability and performance. Among its features, it refines the display of weather data for users and incorporates a novel setting that allows for switching between date views spanning years, months, and days.
Enhancements in OxygenOS Update
This software update integrates the February 2024 Android security patch, thereby bolstering system security. Simultaneously, it focuses on enhancing system stability and performance.
User Experience Improvements
In the realm of applications, the update enhances the user experience related to weather information. Additionally, it introduces a convenient switch within the Settings menu to toggle between various date views, encompassing year, month, and day perspectives.
In India, some OnePlus Open users may have already received this update, while others can anticipate its arrival shortly as the rollout progresses. To report any encountered bugs or issues stemming from the update, users can provide feedback by accessing a prompt that appears upon dialing “*#800#” through the Google Dialer app.
Tags: Oneplus, OxygenOS, software updates
March 4, 2024
Xiaomi’s Latest MIUI Update Causing Phone-Bricking Problems
A recent software update released by Xiaomi has caused significant issues for users of Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices, resulting in an endless reboot loop that renders the devices inoperable.
Compatibility Misstep Leads to System Failure
Xiaomi has acknowledged the widespread complaints regarding this problem and has identified the root cause as an update to its System UI Plugin, which was meant for devices running HyperOS but mistakenly pushed to a broader range of MIUI-based phones.
Addressing the Fallout
In response to the chaos caused by this faulty update, Xiaomi has taken action by removing the problematic update from online distribution channels to prevent further disruptions. They urge affected users not to attempt fixing the issue independently to avoid potential data loss if not properly backed up.
Seeking Assistance and Precautionary Measures
While the exact number of impacted users remains uncertain, Xiaomi assures that the problem has affected only a "small number" of devices. To receive support, affected users are advised to contact Xiaomi's technical support team for assistance. Given Xiaomi's history with software update issues, disabling automatic updates on your device can serve as a proactive measure to reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future.
Tags: Device Bootloop, Phone-Bricking, Software Update Issue, Xiaomi
March 3, 2024
WhatsApp beta introduces third-party chat management feature
WhatsApp, the globally popular messaging application, is working on enhancing cross-platform communication capabilities, as indicated by the latest features found in its beta update for Android.
While the direct messaging functionality with platforms like Telegram or Signal is not yet operational, WhatsApp is laying the foundation for a future where such cross-platform interactions can occur. The most recent beta version, labeled as 2.24.6.2, unveils the company’s progress in developing a feature known as “Manage Third-Party Chats.”
User Control and Regulatory Compliance
This innovative feature addresses two significant aspects: user empowerment and compliance with EU regulations.
Primarily, this feature grants users the authority to completely disable the chat interoperability service. This action aligns with Article 7 of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), emphasizing users’ control over data sharing and communication preferences. This option allows users uninterested in cross-platform messaging to opt-out entirely.
Secondly, the feature provides detailed control over which third-party applications can interact with WhatsApp. This feature enhances user independence and allows them to personalize their communication experience. Users can select specific trusted messaging services to integrate with, customizing their level of connectivity.
Selective Management of Third-Party App Access
The capability to selectively manage third-party app access is notably advantageous. Users can avoid unsolicited communication from unknown platforms while maintaining connections with desired services. Furthermore, disabling the entire service offers a clear exit strategy for users who change their minds regarding cross-platform messaging.
It should be noted that deactivating the service does come with some restrictions. Existing third-party chats will shift to a read-only mode, preventing users from sending or receiving new messages within those conversations. Nonetheless, these chats will remain accessible within WhatsApp and can be deleted as desired by the user.
Despite being in the developmental phase, the “Manage Third-Party Chats” feature sets the stage for a more interconnected future for WhatsApp users. This advancement coincides with the company’s efforts to adhere to the EU’s DMA regulations and accommodate evolving user preferences in the realm of cross-platform communication. With additional details anticipated in forthcoming updates, this feature is poised to significantly alter how users engage and manage their messaging encounters on WhatsApp.
In addition to these developments, WhatsApp is actively testing new features in recent beta versions. Among these tests, there is an exploration of implementing a secret code for locked chats on WhatsApp Web, with a focus on enhancing privacy and security. Furthermore, they are experimenting with a redesigned status tab in the latest beta version.
Tags: Cross-platform Communication, User Control, WhatsApp Beta
March 3, 2024
Google Tests Unified App Store “App Mall” for Chromebooks
Chromebooks have become increasingly popular due to their cost-effectiveness and user-friendly design. However, users have encountered difficulties in managing apps across various platforms, such as web apps, Android apps, and Linux apps. This challenge arises from the necessity to navigate through different sources like the Chrome browser, Google Play Store, and occasionally the command line for Linux apps, leading to a fragmented and sometimes confusing user experience, especially for newcomers.
Simplifying Chromebook App Discovery
To tackle this issue, Google is rolling out a new app store for ChromeOS known as the “App Mall.” The primary goal of this initiative is to streamline the process of app discovery and installation by offering users a centralized platform to locate and install a diverse range of apps.
According to uncovered code snippets in Chrome, the feature is currently concealed behind a flag in Chrome settings, hinting at a website named “discover.apps.chrome.” Although the website is not operational yet, it suggests the imminent launch of an online store.
While specific details regarding the types of apps to be included in the “App Mall” remain undisclosed, it is expected that Android and web apps, potentially including games, will be part of the selection. This assumption is supported by Chromebooks' existing capability to discover specific apps through the built-in “Explore” app, indicating that the “App Mall” is likely to build upon this foundation to provide a more extensive discovery experience.
This consolidation has the potential to significantly improve the user experience, making it simpler and more intuitive for Chromebook users to explore new apps and games, thereby maximizing the usefulness and adaptability of their devices.
Advancements in Google Chrome Browser
In addition to this development, Google is enhancing its Chrome browser by introducing three new generative AI features in the latest release (M121) for users in the U.S. on Mac and Windows PCs. These features consist of AI Tab Groups, which automatically organize open tabs, Custom Themes with AI for crafting personalized themes using a text-to-image diffusion model, and “Help Me Write,” an AI-powered writing aid tool set to debut in an upcoming release.
Tags: Chromebook App Store, Google Chrome AI Features, User Experience Enhancement