Category: Software

  • One UI 7 May Introduce New App-Locking Feature

    One UI 7 May Introduce New App-Locking Feature

    One UI is anticipated to get a new function called App Lock with the release of One UI 7. This information comes from tipster Tarun Vats on X (formerly Twitter). Interestingly, this won't be a completely new feature for One UI, as it existed in earlier versions in some regions. Apple is also working on similar functionality, which might have prompted Samsung to develop this feature for One UI 7.

    One UI 7 might include an App Lock feature

    The App Lock feature is currently absent from One UI 6. A screenshot above shows this feature available in a development version of One UI. It appears under the Advanced Features section in the Settings app. Currently, you won't find the "App Lock" feature below Dual Messenger in the Advanced Features section on devices running One UI 6.1.

    You can still hide your apps, documents, and files in the Secure Folder by setting up the feature for the first time and installing a new instance of the app. However, if you're not interested in the setup process and prefer a straightforward app lock, the upcoming feature could be beneficial.

    Existing Similar Features

    There are a few other useful features in One UI, such as Samsung Pass, Auto Blocker, Secure Folder, and Private Share.

    However, the App Lock feature is still under development, and it remains uncertain whether the company will include it in the forthcoming One UI 7.

  • Huawei Launches HarmonyOS NEXT, Drops Android Apps Completely

    Huawei Launches HarmonyOS NEXT, Drops Android Apps Completely

    Huawei’s annual developer conference, HDC 2024, showcased a major announcement: the official unveiling of HarmonyOS NEXT, the latest version of its proprietary operating system.

    Developed over several years, HarmonyOS, known as Hongmeng in China, has shifted away from using the Linux kernel and Android Open Source Project (AOSP) codebase. Instead, it features an entirely independent architecture built on Huawei’s own Hongmeng kernel and system.

    Huawei asserts that this new system architecture enhances overall machine performance by 30% and reduces power consumption by 20%.

    Currently, HarmonyOS NEXT is in its beta phase and seeks developers and 3,000 pioneer users to participate. Potential testers should note that the beta version might be unstable and could cause data compatibility issues.

    One System for All Devices

    A key feature of HarmonyOS NEXT is its capability to unify different devices. Huawei claims that developers need to create only one version of an app to ensure a consistent user experience across various Huawei devices. This was demonstrated at the conference with popular apps like Taobao, Yiche, and Bilibili running smoothly on different devices.

    Additionally, HarmonyOS NEXT includes an “App Continuation” function, which allows users to start a video call on their tablet and seamlessly transfer it to their phone with a single click. Data sharing between devices is also straightforward, enabling actions like cutting and pasting an image from a phone to a tablet while working on a document.

    Harmony Intelligence: AI Built-in

    HarmonyOS NEXT extends beyond device connectivity by integrating artificial intelligence (AI), termed “Harmony Intelligence.” This integration brings several features, including:

    • AIGC image generation: Create unique images from line drawings, color existing photos, or enlarge them.
    • Industry-first AI sound repair: Aids individuals with speech disorders by enhancing communication.
    • “Xiaoyi Sees the World” for visually impaired users: Uses AI to describe picture content aloud, aiding in object identification.
    • AI-powered controls: Enables third-party apps to use the system’s AI for real-time text reading, smart form filling, and image/text translation.

    Xiaoyi Gets Smarter

    Huawei’s virtual assistant, Xiaoyi, has been upgraded and is now known as the “Xiaoyi Intelligent Agent,” powered by Pangu Big Model 5.0. Xiaoyi no longer needs a wake word and can be activated by dragging and dropping content onto the navigation bar. This makes interactions more intuitive, allowing Xiaoyi to analyze content and offer actions like generating charts from images or summarizing documents.

    Security First with Star Shield

    Security is a high priority for Huawei. HarmonyOS NEXT introduces the Star Shield security architecture to safeguard user data. This architecture includes:

    • Strict app vetting: Codes and apps not meeting security standards are blocked from installation.
    • Multi-device data encryption: End-to-end encryption across devices for enhanced protection.
    • Hardware-level encryption: Individual file encryption with unique keys stored on the device’s hardware.
    • Permission control: Restricts unnecessary app permissions to minimize privacy risks.

    The Road Ahead

    HarmonyOS NEXT is still under development, with a commercial release expected in Q4 2024. The beta testing phase has started, and Huawei is actively seeking developers and early adopters to provide feedback and help improve the system.


  • Huawei Devices Receiving HarmonyOS NEXT Update in 2024

    Huawei Devices Receiving HarmonyOS NEXT Update in 2024

    Huawei has officially revealed the upgrade roadmap for its newest HarmonyOS NEXT operating system. While developer beta testing begins today for a limited number of users, the general public will need to wait until later this year to experience the new OS.

    Currently, the developer beta testing program is open to a restricted group. Huawei is recruiting developers along with 3,000 pioneer users to initially test HarmonyOS NEXT.

    Initial Rollout

    The first wave of the rollout focuses on flagship devices, with the Huawei Mate 60 and Mate X5 series, as well as the MatePad Pro 13.2 tablet, being the primary recipients. These high-end models will have access to the developer beta starting from today, June 21st.

    A broader beta program will commence in August 2024, including the aforementioned flagship models along with the Pura 70 series phones, the Pocket 2 foldable phone, FreeBuds Pro 3 earbuds, and the 2024 refresh of the MatePad Pro 11 tablet.

    Timeline for Stable Release

    The stable version of HarmonyOS NEXT will not be available for these flagship devices until Q4 of 2024. At that point, the devices mentioned earlier are anticipated to receive the final, fully polished version of the operating system.

    For mid-range device users such as those with the Nova series and budget tablets like the MatePad 11, the wait is even longer. These models are scheduled for the beta program only in Q4, with a possible stable release sometime in 2025.

    Details about the upgrade path for older devices remain vague, with Huawei simply advising users to "Stay tuned" for further announcements. Below is a list of Huawei devices that will receive the HarmonyOS NEXT update:

    Release WindowProducts
    Developer Beta Testing (June 21)Huawei Mate 60 Series, Huawei Mate X5 Series, Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 tablet
    August 2024 (Beta)Huawei Mate 60 series, Huawei Mate X5 series, Huawei Pura 70 series, Huawei Pocket 2 series, Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3, Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2, Huawei MatePad Pro 11 2024
    Q4 2024 (Stable)Huawei Mate 60 series, Huawei Mate X5 series, Huawei Pura 70 series, Huawei Pocket 2 series, Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3, Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2, Huawei MatePad Pro 11 2024
    Q4 2024 (Beta)Huawei Nova 12 series, Huawei MatePad 11.5-inch S series, Huawei Watch Ultimate, Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Edition, Huawei Watch GT 4 series, Huawei FreeClip, Huawei Smart Glasses 2

    Participation Details

    Developers and pioneer users can sign up for the current beta program from June 21st to June 28th. Huawei will review applications and select participants based on their requirements and the type of build they need. Developers with existing apps on the AppGallery will be given priority, according to Huawei.

    Selected participants are advised to back up their data before installing the beta software to avoid any potential data loss. Additionally, those who find the beta experience challenging will have the option to revert to their current OS through the settings menu.


    Huawei Devices Receiving HarmonyOS NEXT Update in 2024
  • Huawei Introduces New Self-Developed “Cangjie” Programming Language

    Huawei Introduces New Self-Developed “Cangjie” Programming Language

    Huawei has introduced a new programming language called Cangjie at the HDC 2024 developer conference. This language aims to serve as a next-generation solution for all-scenario intelligence applications.

    Huawei claims that Cangjie brings “native intelligence, natural all-scenario, high performance, and strong security.” It is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Huawei HarmonyOS ecosystem, offering a user-friendly development experience.

    Key Features of Cangjie

    Native Intelligence: Cangjie includes a built-in AgentDSL framework that merges natural language with programming language. This facilitates multi-agent collaboration and simplifies symbolic expressions.

    Full-Scene Capabilities: The language is intended to be lightweight and scalable, featuring a modular design adaptable to various scenarios. It also supports domain-oriented development.

    High Performance: Cangjie introduces a new garbage collection system for smoother application threads and quicker response times. Additionally, lightweight threads are intended to enhance concurrent performance.

    Strong Security: The language has security features embedded in its design to help developers avoid security vulnerabilities.

    Multi-Paradigm Support

    Cangjie is a multi-paradigm language, supporting functional, imperative, and object-oriented programming styles. It includes features like type inference, generics, and pattern matching to streamline the development process.

    For those concerned with safety, Cangjie offers a static-type system and automatic memory management to ensure program stability. It also includes runtime checks for error detection and cross-language interoperability security.

    Concurrency and Performance

    In terms of concurrency, Cangjie employs lightweight user-mode threads and concurrent object libraries, simplifying development and optimizing resource usage.

    Performance is a key focus of Cangjie. The compiler and runtime are optimized for efficiency, featuring high-level and back-end compilation optimizations, as well as runtime optimizations.

    A lightweight runtime design further enhances performance and resource efficiency. Additionally, Cangjie provides a comprehensive development toolchain, which includes debugging, static checking, performance analysis, and testing frameworks.

    The Huawei Hongmeng HarmonyOS NEXT Cangjie language developer preview is now open for developers to sign up and explore.

  • iOS 18 Beta: Key Improvements You Need to Know

    iOS 18 Beta: Key Improvements You Need to Know

    Apple recently posted the iOS 18 beta release notes on the Apple Developer site, detailing updates to FaceTime, Siri, and the Wallet app.

    Currently, iOS 18 is in Beta for members of the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta set for release in July. A wider release is anticipated in September. The SDK is included with Xcode 16, downloadable from the Mac App Store. Below are some key improvements.

    Audio Enhancement in Siri

    Apple states that iOS 18 has a new setting that can significantly improve Siri’s audio quality on Bluetooth car devices without CarPlay. This new option is accessible through the Settings app under Siri > Siri Responses > “Respond over Media Source.” The feature description notes, “Siri will respond over A2DP car stereos, which is ideal while listening to media from your phone.”

    Improvements in FaceTime

    FaceTime in iOS 18 will utilize more data in Low Power Mode when network conditions are favorable, enhancing video call quality.

    Security Enhancement in the Wallet App

    When adding an ID to the Wallet app on an iPhone, users may now be prompted to take a live photo, either instead of or in addition to the usual head and facial movements. Apple explains that the device will assess the live photo to verify the authenticity of the person adding the document.

    Initially announced in 2021, the ability to add a driver’s license or ID to the Wallet app has only been rolled out in four U.S. states: Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, and Georgia. This feature offers a convenient, contactless way to present identification or proof of age at select airports, businesses, and venues.

  • YouTube Tests Community Notes Feature for Video Context

    YouTube Tests Community Notes Feature for Video Context

    YouTube is introducing a new feature called Community Notes to help combat misinformation by providing additional context for viewers. This initiative, inspired by a similar feature on X, allows users to contribute brief explanations or background details for specific videos.

    The pilot program is currently available to a select group of users in the United States, who will receive invitations via email or through YouTube Creator Studio. To join, users need to have an active YouTube account in good standing. During this initial phase, YouTube will use “third-party evaluators” to judge the usefulness of the submitted notes, which will help train the system to ensure only the most valuable contributions are shown publicly.

    Rating System and Algorithm

    When the pilot program expands, viewers will be able to rate the helpfulness of Community Notes using a three-tier system: “helpful,” “somewhat helpful,” or “unhelpful.” They can also specify reasons for their ratings, such as the credibility of cited sources or the clarity of the note.

    A unique “bridging-based algorithm” will decide which notes appear under videos. This algorithm favors notes that get positive ratings from a diverse group of viewers, including those with differing opinions. Although there is always a risk of misuse, YouTube aims to reduce the spread of misinformation through this approach.

    Community Notes’ Concept and Future Plans

    The idea behind Community Notes is similar to a feature that Twitter introduced during Jack Dorsey’s tenure and expanded globally under Elon Musk‘s ownership. While Twitter’s notes haven’t fully resolved accuracy issues, YouTube believes that this crowd-sourced method has potential. The pilot program will start on mobile devices for users in the United States. YouTube acknowledges there might be challenges as the system is refined, and a broader rollout in the US is anticipated in the upcoming weeks and months.

    (Via)

  • Redmi Note 11 Receives Latest HyperOS Update

    Redmi Note 11 Receives Latest HyperOS Update

    Xiaomi’s well-loved Redmi Note 11 continues to provide its users with the latest software updates. Recently, the device received a new security update in June 2024. This HyperOS update, identified by build number OS1.0.5.0.TGCMIXM, enhances the security and performance of the device.

    Redmi Note 11 HyperOS June Update

    The June 2024 update primarily addresses security vulnerabilities. With the rise in cyber threats and security risks, mobile device security has become crucial. Xiaomi regularly releases security updates to safeguard its users’ personal data and devices. This latest patch enhances the device’s security, making it more resistant to malware and other cyber threats.

    Redmi Note 11 OS1.0.5.0.TGCMIXM

    Beyond security improvements, the new patch also includes optimizations to boost device performance. Users can expect benefits such as extended battery life, quicker app launches, and enhanced overall system stability. This ensures that users can enjoy prolonged, trouble-free usage of their devices.

    For Redmi Note 11 users, installing this update is straightforward. They can navigate to Settings / About Phone to check for the new update, then download and install it. Once the update process is complete, the device will reboot, and the new software version will be enabled.

  • Redmi Note 10S June 2024 Security Update Released in India

    Redmi Note 10S June 2024 Security Update Released in India

    The Redmi Note 10S is a well-regarded device within the popular Redmi Note 10 series. This smartphone has garnered significant attention for its technical specifications and has a large user base. The recently released June 2024 update is now being distributed for the Redmi Note 10S. This update includes the latest June security patch and enhances system optimization.

    Redmi Note 10S HyperOS June Update

    Initially launched with MIUI 12.5 based on Android 11, the smartphone now runs MIUI 14 based on Android 13 and continues to receive updates. The June 2024 update aims to bolster the Note 10S against security vulnerabilities. It's important to note that this update is currently being rolled out in India. The build number for the new MIUI update on the Redmi Note 10S is V14.0.10.0.TKLINXM.

    Redmi Note 10S V14.0.10.0.TKLINXM

    Xiaomi is distributing the new MIUI 14 update to Pilot users first. Assuming no major issues arise, it is expected to become available to all users. The Note 10S, already appreciated for its features, will become even more robust with this update. Therefore, make sure to download the new updates when they become available.

  • OnePlus Nord 3 Update: Enhanced Gaming, Bug Fixes & New Features

    OnePlus Nord 3 Update: Enhanced Gaming, Bug Fixes & New Features

    OnePlus Nord 3 has received a fresh update aimed at resolving various issues and enhancing user experience. The OxygenOS 14.0.0.520 update also incorporates the latest Android security patch, addressing multiple system vulnerabilities.

    OnePlus Nord 3 OxygenOS 14.0.0.520 Update Changelog:

    System

    • Option to hide the track while drawing the Lock screen pattern to unlock your device.
    • Volume can now be adjusted in Quick Settings.
    • Floating window size can now be adjusted by dragging its bottom and swiping up to close a mini window.
    • Home screen widgets display improvements.
    • Fix for system data occupying excessive storage space.
    • Integration of the June 2024 Android security patch to enhance system security.
    • Fix for simultaneous appearance of the volume slider in Quick Settings and the physical volume button.
    • Fix for issues with using NFC-enabled payment.

    Communication

    • Fix for device not vibrating for phone calls.
    • Fix for phone numbers not displaying for call forwarding.

    Games

    • Improved gaming stability.
    • Fix for screen turning black while playing a game.

    Rollout and Manual Update Check

    The update is being gradually rolled out to users in India. If the OTA update notification hasn't appeared yet, users can manually check for it by going to Settings, selecting About Device, then OxygenOS, and finally tapping on Check for Update.

    Reporting Issues

    Indian users experiencing problems after the update can submit bug reports through the Google Dialer by dialing *#800#.

  • Nokia Unveils New Immersive Phone Call Technology

    Nokia Unveils New Immersive Phone Call Technology

    Nokia’s CEO Pekka Lundmark recently made a phone call utilizing a cutting-edge technology known as “immersive audio and video.” This innovation aims to enhance call quality by introducing a three-dimensional effect, making the listening experience more lifelike. The demonstration was conducted with Stefan Lindström, Finland’s Ambassador of Digitalisation and New Technologies.

    Nokia anticipates their 3D calling technology will soon set the industry standard. They are urging network providers, chipset manufacturers, and handset makers to adopt and integrate this immersive calling feature into their products.

    A Step Towards Realistic Communication

    The objective of this new technology mirrors Google’s Project Starline, albeit with fewer prerequisites. The CEO’s demonstration showcased the future of voice communication, akin to his participation during the introduction of 2G calling.

    For years, the core technology and output of voice calls have remained mostly unchanged. Initially, calls employed heavy compression to minimize file size for transmission. Despite the current infrastructure’s capability to handle high-quality, multi-channel audio, we still rely on monophonic systems. Nokia’s 3D audio-based immersive calling represents a significant advancement in calling technology.

    A Leap in Live Voice Calling

    Nokia’s innovation will not only enhance auditory experience but also allow users to visualize the caller’s environment. “It is the biggest leap forward in the live voice calling experience since the introduction of monophonic telephony audio used in smartphones and PCs today,” stated Jenni Lukander, Nokia’s president.

    This new calling method’s advantage lies in its simplicity; it doesn’t necessitate special audio equipment to experience the 3D effect. A stereo microphone setup, common in most modern smartphones, is sufficient to create this immersive experience.

    Practical Demonstration and Future Prospects

    For those concerned about transmission, the demonstration used a standard 5G-enabled smartphone. As shown in the image above, CEO Pekka Lundmark was holding a Pixel device. Besides one-on-one calls, this immersive technology can also be applied to conference calls.

    Nokia plans to license this new technology and make it publicly accessible within a few years.