Category: Software

  • 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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  • OnePlus Nord CE 4 Update: AI Eraser & Camera Enhancements

    OnePlus Nord CE 4 Update: AI Eraser & Camera Enhancements

    OnePlus has recently unveiled the OxygenOS 14.0.1.427 update for the Nord CE 4 smartphone in the Indian market. This latest update introduces various enhancements, with a notable addition being the inclusion of a new AI eraser tool tailored for photos. Initially, the update is being rolled out to a select group of users, with a broader distribution anticipated in the near future.

    System Enhancements and Improved Connectivity

    The primary focus of OxygenOS 14.0.1.427 centers around system enhancements, aiming to deliver enhanced stability and optimized power utilization in specific scenarios. Noteworthy improvements also extend to Bluetooth connectivity, particularly enhancing call quality when using Bluetooth headphones.

    AI Eraser Tool and Camera Enhancements

    One of the standout features of this update is the AI Eraser tool, empowering users to effortlessly eliminate unwanted elements from their images. Furthermore, advancements in camera performance promise smoother video recording and an overall enhancement in picture quality.

    Global Rollout Plans and User Feedback

    While presently accessible solely in India, OnePlus intends to extend the update's availability to other regions in the coming days, though specific timelines remain undisclosed. The company encourages early recipients to share any encountered issues by dialing *#800# from their device and adhering to the provided instructions. Users can also manually check for the update's availability by navigating through Settings > About Device > OxygenOS > Check for Update.

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  • Galaxy S23 Ultra Lock Screen Clock Widget Issues

    Galaxy S23 Ultra Lock Screen Clock Widget Issues

    The latest OneUI 6.1 update has extended numerous AI functionalities from the newest Galaxy S24 line to its predecessor, the Galaxy S23 series. This update brings an array of advanced features to the older devices, enhancing their overall user experience. However, alongside these improvements, some users have reported encountering a few bugs following the update.

    Lock Screen Clock Widget Issue

    One noticeable bug that has emerged post-update is the reset of the lock screen clock widget's styling. Users have observed that their preferred settings for the lock screen clock widget have been altered or reset after installing the OneUI 6.1 update. This unexpected change has led to inconvenience for some individuals who have customized their lock screen to suit their preferences.

    Addressing the Bugs

    Samsung is actively working to address these newly introduced bugs and provide users with solutions to mitigate any disruptions caused by the update. While the integration of AI features from the latest Galaxy S24 series has brought significant enhancements to the Galaxy S23 lineup, it is crucial to ensure that any bugs or issues are promptly resolved to maintain a seamless user experience.

    Conclusion

    Despite the introduction of new AI features through the OneUI 6.1 update for the Galaxy S23 series, the emergence of certain bugs has been noted by users. Samsung's commitment to resolving these issues reflects their dedication to delivering a smooth and optimized user experience across their range of devices. By addressing these bugs promptly, users can continue to enjoy the benefits of the latest enhancements without being hindered by technical glitches or inconsistencies.

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  • TikTok Files Lawsuit Defending First Amendment Rights Against US Ban

    TikTok Files Lawsuit Defending First Amendment Rights Against US Ban

    TikTok’s recent legal move has intensified its conflict with the U.S. government. By filing a lawsuit against the Biden administration’s divestiture bill, the social media giant argues that the law unfairly singles out its platform. Beckman, TikTok’s U.S. public policy director, strongly criticized the bill, deeming it unconstitutional and warning of severe consequences for its vast user base of 170 million Americans and the 7 million small businesses that rely on the platform. Beckman affirmed a robust defense strategy in an internal communication, emphasizing the protection of free speech and economic opportunities.

    The legal showdown between TikTok and the U.S. government extends beyond mere corporate concerns. It serves as a critical test for how online platforms are governed and how user rights are safeguarded. As TikTok prepares for a fierce courtroom confrontation, the implications of its challenge go beyond its own fate, affecting the regulation of digital arenas and the delicate balance between governmental control and individual freedoms. The outcome of this battle will significantly influence the tech industry’s landscape, molding future regulatory frameworks and shaping the behavior of other social media platforms.

    Balancing Authority and Autonomy

    This conflict at its core underscores the ongoing struggle between government authority and corporate independence in the digital realm. TikTok’s legal action marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue surrounding internet governance, underscoring the necessity for strategies that uphold basic rights while addressing valid concerns related to national security and data protection.

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  • Google Maps Testing Redesigned Interface on Android

    Google Maps Testing Redesigned Interface on Android

    Google Maps on Android is gearing up for a potential complete rollout of a redesigned interface, incorporating key refinements based on user input. The updated design enhances navigation by emphasizing the map itself. Formerly full-screen information panels have been replaced with smaller, translucent windows, enabling users to view a portion of the map in the background while perusing details, offering essential context. These info windows now feature rounded corners and include easily accessible buttons for closing or sharing information.

    Redesigned Interface Enhancements

    One significant modification involves the positioning of the origin and destination fields, which now float at the top of the map, providing a more streamlined user experience. Additionally, transportation mode options have been shifted to the bottom of the screen, emphasizing a map-centric approach.

    Google has yet to formally announce the launch of this redesign, but the extensive testing period indicates an imminent widespread release. As the update is server-side, simply updating the app will not trigger the new appearance. With several months dedicated to testing, it seems likely that users will soon navigate using the revamped Google Maps interface. Furthermore, a similar visual update can be anticipated for Google Maps on iOS in the coming future.

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  • New Method for Verifying Government Apps on Google Play Store

    New Method for Verifying Government Apps on Google Play Store

    Ever concerned about the authenticity of government-related apps you install, wondering if they might be fraudulent or data-stealing schemes? Google has introduced a new "Government" badge system on the Play Store to address these worries.

    Google’s New “Government” Badge System

    This badge, represented by a small building icon, is prominently showcased on government app listings, search results, and the main Play Store feed. When users click on the badge, they are presented with a confirmation message indicating the app’s affiliation with a government entity. The message states, "Official government — Play verified this app is affiliated with a government entity," providing a straightforward means of ensuring legitimacy.

    Global Implementation and Verification Process

    Google’s initiative is not limited to the United States; the badge system will be launched worldwide. Presently active in various countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States, this system aims to enhance trust among users.

    According to a report by 9to5Google, the development of this feature has been ongoing for some time. However, acquiring the government badge entails adhering to specific regulations. Government agencies are required to use official email addresses for developer accounts, and apps dealing with sensitive areas such as voting must undergo additional scrutiny before being published on the Play Store. While over 3000 apps have already received the badge, this is just the initial phase.

    Exercising Caution in App Downloads

    Despite Google’s efforts, it remains prudent to exercise caution when downloading apps, even those lacking the government badge. Users are advised to review feedback and developer details to mitigate the risk of downloading potentially harmful or spam applications.

    New Method for Verifying Government Apps on Google Play Store
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  • Latest Samsung Phones Receiving One UI 6.1 Update

    Latest Samsung Phones Receiving One UI 6.1 Update

    Samsung has initiated the rollout of the One UI 6.1 update to a broader range of devices, beginning today. As assured by the company, the update is now being deployed to devices such as the Galaxy S22 family, the Galaxy S21 series, the Galaxy Z Flip4, the Galaxy Z Flip3, the Galaxy Z Fold4, and the Galaxy Z Fold3.

    One UI 6.1 Update Expansion

    The current rollout is primarily focused on South Korea, with a global expansion for other regions expected shortly. The highlight of the One UI 6.1 update is the introduction of Galaxy AI features.

    For older flagship models, Samsung is offering a partial selection of these features rather than the complete suite. Nevertheless, these additions are anticipated to enhance the overall user experience in multiple aspects.

    Galaxy AI Features Breakdown

    • Galaxy S21 series: Users will have access to Circle to Search, a highly anticipated feature of Galaxy AI. This functionality enables users to draw a circle around an object they wish to learn more about, prompting AI to retrieve relevant information.
    • Galaxy Z Flip3: Similar to the S21 lineup, the Z Flip3 will also receive Circle to Search.
    • Galaxy Z Fold3: Surprisingly, the Fold3 will benefit from an extensive array of Galaxy AI features. These include AI-generated wallpapers, webpage summarization, notes summarization, auto templates in Samsung Notes, live language translation, image editing suggestions, generative AI-powered editing, Interpreter Mode, and voice transcription in Voice Recorder.
    • Galaxy S22 series, Z Flip4, Z Fold4: These devices are set to receive the complete suite of Galaxy AI features, aligning them with the Galaxy S24 series.

    Samsung is intensifying efforts to extend its smart features to a wider range of phones, with a target of surpassing 100 million devices equipped with Galaxy AI by the year's end.

    Expansion and Future Prospects

    This objective appears feasible with the latest deployment, especially considering that the forthcoming Fold6 and Flip6 will come pre-installed with these features. Overall, the One UI 6.1 update introduces advanced functionalities to numerous Samsung devices. While its availability remains limited currently, a broader rollout is imminent.

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  • Unfollow Everything: Why Facebook Banned the Tool’s Creator

    Unfollow Everything: Why Facebook Banned the Tool’s Creator

    Are you exhausted by the never-ending scroll on Facebook? A recent legal challenge questions Meta's (formerly Facebook) dominance over user feeds, focusing on a browser tool named "Unfollow Everything" that enables users to unfollow everyone at once, granting them the ability to purposefully curate their feed rather than being overwhelmed by an algorithm.

    Facebook took action against the original creator of the tool after he gained control over his Facebook feed, resulting in a significant decrease in his Facebook activity. In response, Facebook banned him from the platform. Presently, a researcher aims to investigate the impact of a new iteration of the tool but requires accessibility. Consequently, they have filed a lawsuit against Meta, contending that a segment of the Communications Decency Act safeguards users' rights to manage their online encounters, inclusive of the tools they employ.

    Implications of the Lawsuit

    The lawsuit revolves around a specific clause that permits the management of undesirable content. The researcher asserts that this provision should extend to social media, providing users with the ability to "opt out of the algorithm." The decision of the courts on this matter remains uncertain. If the users prevail, this case could establish a legal precedent, potentially granting individuals the authority to escape the perpetual scroll and design their personal social media interactions.

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