Category: Software

  • New Security and Performance Features Enhance Google Chrome’s Browsing Experience

    New Security and Performance Features Enhance Google Chrome’s Browsing Experience

    Google Chrome: Prioritizing Safety and Performance

    Google continues to enhance its Chrome browser with new features to ensure productivity and keep up with current trends. In its latest updates, Google announced the End of Tracking Cookies to protect users' personal data and introduced the Create Theme feature with AI capabilities for improved customization. With these developments, Google Chrome prioritizes safety and performance to provide users with a better browsing experience.

    Updates for a Safer Browsing Experience

    Google aims to create a safer and more efficient web browsing environment. To achieve this, Google has implemented several useful changes to the Chrome browser. Some of these updates have already been rolled out, while others will be available soon. Let's take a closer look at the details:

    Proactive Safety Check

    Chrome's Safety Check now operates seamlessly in the background, sending proactive alerts to users. Users will receive notifications when their passwords have been compromised, when their browser versions are outdated, or when their site permissions require attention. These alerts can be easily accessed through the three-dot menu, allowing users to take immediate action against suspicious sites.

    Furthermore, Chrome Browser now automatically revokes site permissions, such as access to location or microphone, for sites that haven't been visited in a while. Additionally, the process of turning off notifications from websites has been streamlined for user convenience.

    Smarter Performance Controls

    In addition to safety enhancements, Chrome introduces new performance controls to optimize browsing efficiency. Building upon last year's Memory Saver mode, Chrome now provides more detailed insights. Users can hover over tabs to view comprehensive information about the amount of memory being utilized. Moreover, users can specify certain sites to always remain active, ensuring a smoother browsing experience. To activate Memory Saver Mode, users can navigate to the performance section in settings and toggle the Memory Saver option for an optimized performance experience.

    Surprisingly, Chrome will soon introduce the ability to save work groups, allowing users to free up memory and organize their browsing experience more efficiently. This feature will be accessible across multiple devices and can be toggled by simply clicking on the "Save Group" option.

    Future Developments: AI Model Gemini

    Excitingly, Google Chrome is set to support the new AI model, Gemini, in the first few months of 2024. This integration will enable even smarter and more helpful features within the Chrome browser.

    With these continuous updates, Google Chrome strives to provide users with a secure, efficient, and personalized browsing experience. By prioritizing safety and performance, Google ensures that Chrome remains at the forefront of web browsing technology.

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  • Android 14 update arrives in India for Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Exynos version

    Android 14 update arrives in India for Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Exynos version

    Samsung has started rolling out the OneUI 6.0 update for Galaxy S21 FE models in the US and the global market's Snapdragon 888 variant. Now, the company has initiated the deployment of the Android 14 update for the Exynos variant of the Galaxy S21 FE in India.

    The update comes with firmware version G990EXXU7FWK6/ G990EODM7FWK5/ G990EXXU7FWK5 and includes the December 2023 security patch along with the Android 14-based One UI 6. It has a file size of 2235MB. With this update, Galaxy S21 FE users can expect the following changes:

    One UI 6.0 update changelog

    New emoji design

    The update brings a new design for emojis.

    Picture and video previews in the Share panel

    Users can now preview pictures and videos directly in the Share panel.

    More sharing options

    The update provides additional sharing options for users.

    Multitasking improvements through a pop-up window

    Users can now open a pop-up window that remains open even after leaving the Recents screen, making multitasking more convenient.

    Freely positioned lock screen clock

    The lock screen clock can now be positioned freely according to user preference.

    Simplified app icon labels for the home screen

    The update simplifies app icon labels on the home screen for a cleaner look.

    New Weather widget and enhanced Weather app

    The Weather widget has been redesigned and now offers more information, including an interactive map view. The Weather app also features enhanced illustrations.

    Camera improvements

    The update brings various camera improvements, such as a new widget, more alignment options for watermarks, quick access to resolution settings, and easy-to-apply filters and effects.

    Improvements to Calendar, Reminder, and Samsung Internet

    The Calendar, Reminder, and Samsung Internet apps have been enhanced with new features and improvements.

    Quick actions for apps in Finder search results

    Users can now perform quick actions for apps directly from the Finder search results.

    Recommendations in the My Files app

    The My Files app now provides recommendations to help users free up storage space on their device.

    Smarter Airplane mode

    The update introduces a smarter Airplane mode that offers improved functionality.

    Auto Blocker for enhanced security

    The Auto Blocker feature provides an extra layer of protection by preventing unknown apps from installing, checking for malware, and blocking malicious commands via a USB connection.

    Customizable Bixby text call greetings

    Users can now customize their Bixby text call greetings and switch to Bixby text call during a call.

    More accessibility features

    The update includes new magnification options and custom cursor thickness options for improved accessibility.

    To check if the Android 14 OS update is available for your Galaxy S21 FE, follow these steps:

    1. Go to Settings.
    2. Navigate to Software Update.
    3. Check for updates.
    4. If the update is available, proceed to Download and Install.

    With the OneUI 6.0 update and the Android 14 update, Galaxy S21 FE users can enjoy an enhanced user experience and a range of new features and improvements.

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  • Microsoft Teams unveils performance-boosting upgrades, reaches over 320 million monthly active users

    Microsoft Teams unveils performance-boosting upgrades, reaches over 320 million monthly active users

    Microsoft Teams achieves record user base and unveils performance revolution with Copilot integration

    Microsoft has recently announced that the monthly active users of its collaboration platform, Microsoft Teams, have surpassed an impressive 320 million. This milestone further solidifies Teams' position as a leading choice for businesses worldwide.

    Expanding the App Ecosystem

    In addition to the growing user base, Microsoft Teams' app store now offers more than 2,000 applications, empowering enterprises to create over 145,000 custom line-of-business (LOB) applications. This extensive app ecosystem provides businesses with a wide range of tools and integrations to enhance productivity and streamline workflows within the Teams platform.

    Enhancing User Experience with Copilot Integration

    To further enhance user experience and productivity, Microsoft integrated ChatGPT into Teams earlier this year. This integration enables enterprise users to leverage Teams to call Copilot through plug-ins, simplifying various tasks and improving efficiency. By seamlessly integrating AI capabilities into the collaboration platform, Microsoft aims to provide users with an intuitive and intelligent workspace.

    Performance Revolution with New Teams Version

    In October, Microsoft introduced a new version of Teams for both Windows and macOS. Notably, the macOS version transitioned from the resource-intensive Electron framework to Microsoft's WebView2 technology. This transition promises significant performance improvements for macOS users.

    With the new Teams version, users can enjoy several enhancements, including 3x faster installation, 2x faster startup times, 1.7x faster switching between chats and channels, and a 2x faster meeting join experience. Additionally, Microsoft has successfully reduced memory resource usage by 50% and disk space by 70%, optimizing the overall performance of the platform.

    Streamlined Operational Logic

    In addition to performance enhancements, the new Teams version introduces streamlined operational logic to minimize clutter in notifications and messages. Microsoft's continuous efforts to refine and optimize Teams demonstrate their commitment to providing a seamless and efficient collaborative environment for users worldwide.

    With its growing user base, expanding app ecosystem, and focus on performance and user experience, Microsoft Teams continues to be a preferred choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive collaboration platform. As the workplace landscape evolves, Microsoft remains dedicated to meeting the changing needs of its users and driving innovation in the world of teamwork and productivity.

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  • Google Resolves Play Store Antitrust Lawsuit with $700 Million Settlement and Enhancements

    Google Resolves Play Store Antitrust Lawsuit with $700 Million Settlement and Enhancements

    Google Settles Antitrust Lawsuit with $700 Million Payment

    Google's parent company, Alphabet, has reached a settlement in a major antitrust lawsuit, agreeing to pay $700 million and make changes to the Google Play Store's policies. The settlement comes after pressure from all 50 US states and consumers, who accused Google of using unfair tactics to force developers to exclusively use the Play Store, resulting in inflated app prices. Google would take a 30% cut from each Play Store transaction, which affected both consumers and developers.

    Changes to the Play Store Ecosystem

    To resolve the legal dispute, Google has agreed to pay a significant sum and loosen its control over the Play Store ecosystem. Here are the key changes:

    $630 Million Consumer Fund

    Google will establish a $630 million consumer fund, which aims to compensate consumers who may have overpaid for in-app purchases made through Google Play. The distribution of this fund will be subject to court approval, and specific details regarding its distribution have not been disclosed.

    $70 Million State Fund

    In addition to the consumer fund, Google will pay an additional $70 million to the states. The states will have the discretion to allocate this fund as they see fit.

    Opening Up the App Ecosystem

    As part of the settlement, Google will also make changes to the app ecosystem, allowing for more flexibility and options for developers and consumers.

    Separate Billing System for Developers

    Developers will now have the choice to use a separate billing system, which will save them 4% on the fees imposed by the Play Store. This change comes after Google tested the system for over a year and is now ready to implement it officially. Additionally, developers will be able to offer different price options within their apps, providing consumers with more flexibility.

    Easier App Downloads Outside the Play Store

    Google is making it easier for users to download apps directly from developers' websites, bypassing the Play Store entirely. This move aims to loosen the Play Store's hold on app downloads and provide users with more options.

    Updates Through Alternative App Stores

    Phone makers will no longer require Google's permission to pre-install other app stores, even skipping the Play Store altogether. In the upcoming Android 14, these alternative stores will also be able to handle app updates, reducing Google's control over the app distribution process.

    Overall, this settlement and the changes implemented by Google aim to address the concerns raised in the antitrust lawsuit. By opening up the app market and reducing its control, Google seeks to create a more competitive and consumer-friendly environment for app developers and users alike.

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  • December 2023 Security Patch Update Released for OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8

    December 2023 Security Patch Update Released for OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8

    OnePlus has released a new firmware update for the OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8 smartphones in India. The OnePlus 9R is getting the OxygenOS 13.1.0.585 firmware, while the OnePlus 8 is receiving the OxygenOS 13.1.0.585 update. Both updates include the latest security patch, delivered through incremental OTA. However, the OnePlus 8 Pro will experience a slight delay in receiving the same update, which will be available in a few days.

    December 2023 Android Security Patch

    According to the official changelog, both the OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8 will receive the December 2023 Android Security patch. This update aims to enhance overall security. In addition, there may be some bug fixes and performance improvements that are not specifically mentioned in the official changelog.

    Incremental Update Rollout

    As this is an incremental update, some users may experience a delay in receiving it. Typically, these updates are initially rolled out to a small number of users to ensure successful verification before a broader rollout takes place. Users who are interested in checking for the update manually can do so by going to their device Settings, selecting About, then Software Updates, and finally tapping on Check for Updates.

    Reporting Bugs and Issues

    If any user encounters any bugs or issues while using the latest build, OnePlus encourages them to submit their feedback. This can be done through the Google Dialer by typing *#800# or by visiting the OnePlus Community.

    OxygenOS 14 Update

    OnePlus is also working on bringing the latest Android 14-based OxygenOS 14 update to its compatible smartphones. Several models, including the OnePlus 11 Series, OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 10R, OnePlus Nord 3, and OnePlus Pad, have already received their respective updates. The remaining models are currently either in the closed beta or open beta program. Users can refer to the official timeline for the OxygenOS 14 update rollout to find more information about when their device will receive the update.

    New Features and Improvements

    The OxygenOS 14 update introduces various new changes and improvements. One notable addition is the Aquamorphic Design, which provides the overall user interface with a modern and elegant look. Users who are interested in learning more about the full features of the new skin can find detailed information on the OnePlus website.

    Overall, OnePlus continues to deliver firmware updates to enhance the user experience and ensure the security of its smartphones. Users are encouraged to keep their devices up to date by regularly checking for updates and providing feedback to OnePlus for any bugs or issues encountered.

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  • Explore Magical Christmas Deals: Special Savings on Microsoft & Adobe Software at Msckey!

    Explore Magical Christmas Deals: Special Savings on Microsoft & Adobe Software at Msckey!

    Msckey Christmas Sale: Incredible Discounts on Microsoft and Adobe Software

    As we near the end of the year and the festive spirit envelops us, Msckey is here to add extra cheer to your Christmas with extraordinary markdowns on Microsoft and Adobe software. Following the triumph of their Black Friday promotions, they are rolling out an exclusive Christmas sale that you simply cannot afford to overlook. Brace yourself to enhance your efficiency and unleash your creativity with a lifetime license to indispensable software, all at prices that will astound you.

    Microsoft Office Extravaganza – Save Up to 45%

    Microsoft Office is a ubiquitous name, and this Christmas, you can make it yours at a fraction of the regular cost. Avail yourself of the ‘XMAS45’ coupon code to relish discounts of up to 45% across various Microsoft Office editions. From Microsoft Office 2021 Professional Plus to Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus Lifetime Account, there’s a tailored deal for everyone. Seize the opportunity to boost your productivity without denting your wallet.

    Full list of Microsoft Office versions available at a 45% discount from their original prices:

    • Microsoft Office 2021 Professional Plus ﹓ $21.99
    • Microsoft Office 2021 Pro Plus Online Activation ﹓ $20.83
    • Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac ﹓ $21.99
    • Microsoft Office 2021 Pro Plus Phone Activation ﹓ $14.29
    • Microsoft Office 2021 Pro Plus 5 PC/Device User ﹓ $44.00
    • Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus Lifetime Account 5 PC/Mac ﹓ $19.79
    • Microsoft Office 2019 Professional Plus ﹓ $19.79
    • Microsoft Office 2019 Home and Business for Mac ﹓ $21.44
    • Microsoft Office 2019 Pro Plus Phone Activation ﹓ $9.35

    Windows Wonderland – 50% Off using ‘SANTA50’

    Revamp your operating system this Christmas with a generous 50% discount on all Windows OS versions by applying the ‘SANTA50’ coupon code. Whether you opt for Windows 11 Pro or Windows 10 Home, the discounts are too tempting to resist. Elevate your digital experience with a new installation or upgrade, and let the festive season usher in a fresh and efficient operating system on your device.

    Latest Windows OS available at sale prices:

    • Windows 11 Pro License Key ﹓ $18.99
    • Windows 11 Home ﹓ $14.99
    • Windows 11 Pro OEM Key ﹓ $18.49
    • Windows 10 Pro Full Version ﹓ $14.49
    • Windows 10 Home ﹓ $13.00
    • Windows 11 Enterprise ﹓ $20.95
    • Upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro ﹓ $17.99

    Beyond Office and Windows – ‘SANTA50’ Magic Extends

    The festive discounts extend beyond Office and Windows. Explore an array of Microsoft software with the ‘SANTA50’ coupon code, enabling substantial savings on products like Microsoft Project, Microsoft Visio, Microsoft SQL Server, and various Windows Server versions. Msckey ensures that your Christmas is not just joyful but also laden with fantastic software deals.

    Adobe Products Take Center Stage – 40% Off using ‘SAN40’

    But hold on, there’s more! Msckey’s Christmas sale extends its generosity to Adobe products as well. Utilize the ‘SAN40’ coupon code for a 40% price cut on Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Photoshop 2022, Adobe Illustrator 2022, and Adobe Acrobat Pro DC 2022. Elevate your creativity with these potent tools at a fraction of their usual cost.

    How to Avail the Discounts

    Unlocking these remarkable discounts is a cinch. Simply follow these steps:

    1. Select your desired software.
    2. Click on ‘Buy & Download’ or ‘Buy Now.’
    3. Input your details or billing information.
    4. Apply the respective coupon code (‘XMAS45’ or ‘SANTA50’ or ‘SAN40’).
    5. Proceed to checkout and complete your order.
    6. Choose your preferred payment method.
    7. Receive your product via email within 10 minutes to 24 hours.

    Act quickly – Limited-Time Offer

    This Christmas sale is a once-a-year chance to snag Microsoft and Adobe software licenses at discounts of up to 50%. Msckey offers rapid delivery and round-the-clock customer support. Seize this opportunity to upgrade your digital toolkit and create lasting memories this Christmas.

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  • MiHoYo, the Developer of Genshin Impact, Joins HarmonyOS Ecosystem and Offers Exclusive High-Quality Games on AppGallery

    MiHoYo, the Developer of Genshin Impact, Joins HarmonyOS Ecosystem and Offers Exclusive High-Quality Games on AppGallery

    Huawei Boosts HarmonyOS with Exclusive Games from MiHoYo

    Huawei is taking steps to overcome the challenges faced by its HarmonyOS operating system by collaborating with Chinese game developer MiHoYo. This partnership aims to bring popular games exclusively to Huawei devices, enticing more users to adopt HarmonyOS.

    Exclusive Games for HarmonyOS

    Under the collaboration agreement, MiHoYo will design exclusive games specifically for the HarmonyOS operating system. This strategy is similar to what console manufacturers, like Sony, have been doing to boost their sales. By offering games that can only be played on their consoles, manufacturers create a unique selling point. This exclusive game offering can help Huawei differentiate its devices from competitors running iOS and Android.

    Enhanced Performance and Cross-Platform Support

    The collaboration between MiHoYo and Huawei not only covers exclusive games but also includes existing titles. For example, the popular game Genshin Impact will gain native HarmonyOS support. This means that the game will operate with higher performance on Huawei devices compared to before. Additionally, with cross-platform support, HarmonyOS users will be able to play simultaneously with Android and iOS users. This integration aims to provide a seamless gaming experience for Huawei users and attract more developers to the HarmonyOS platform.

    Future Release Date

    While there is no specific release date announced for the new MiHoYo and Huawei games, this partnership is a positive sign for the future of HarmonyOS gaming. With exclusive game offerings and improved performance, Huawei aims to increase the popularity and adoption of its operating system.

    In conclusion, Huawei's collaboration with MiHoYo to develop exclusive games for HarmonyOS is a significant step towards expanding the app support for the operating system. By offering unique gaming experiences and enhanced performance, Huawei hopes to attract more users and app developers to HarmonyOS.

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  • Apple and Google under investigation by European Commission for compliance with Digital Services Act

    Apple and Google under investigation by European Commission for compliance with Digital Services Act

    European Commission Requests Information from Apple and Google on Risk Management Practices in App Stores

    The European Commission has formally requested information from tech giants Apple and Google regarding their risk management practices within their app stores. This move comes as both the App Store and Google Play have been designated as “Very Large Online Platforms” (VLOPs) under the recently enacted Digital Services Act (DSA). As VLOPs, these platforms are subject to compliance with the DSA, and the Commission is particularly interested in identifying and mitigating “systemic risks” associated with them.

    Identifying and Mitigating Systemic Risks

    The European Commission’s inquiry focuses on the potential risks posed by these app stores, including the dissemination of illegal and harmful content, as well as the potential negative impacts on fundamental rights, public security, public health, and minors. The Commission aims to understand how Apple and Google address these issues within their app ecosystems.

    Transparency and Clarity in Risk Management

    One key aspect of the inquiry is the transparency of recommender systems and online advertisements linked to app stores. The Commission seeks clarity on areas such as the assessment of app safety before it goes live and the evaluation of targeted advertisements based on the anticipated audience. This inquiry highlights the need for clear guidelines and practices in these areas.

    Ambiguity Surrounding “Illegal and Harmful Content”

    A notable challenge outlined in the Commission’s request is the lack of a clear definition for “illegal and harmful content.” This ambiguity leaves room for interpretation, potentially encompassing aspects such as pre-launch app safety assessments and the determination of appropriate advertisements based on the target audience. The Commission seeks further information on how Apple and Google address this challenge.

    Deadline for Compliance

    Both Apple and Google have been given until January 15 to comply with the European Commission’s request for detailed information. Failure to do so could result in formal proceedings under Article 66 of the DSA, demonstrating the Commission’s commitment to enforcing the new regulations.

    In conclusion, the European Commission has requested information from Apple and Google regarding their risk management practices in their app stores. The Commission aims to identify and mitigate systemic risks associated with these platforms, particularly in relation to illegal and harmful content and potential negative impacts on fundamental rights and public security. The inquiry also focuses on the transparency and clarity of recommender systems and online advertisements. Apple and Google have until January 15 to provide the requested information, failure to do so could lead to formal proceedings under the DSA.

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  • Your iPhone Transforms into a Thief’s Nightmare with the iOS 17.3 Update

    Your iPhone Transforms into a Thief’s Nightmare with the iOS 17.3 Update

    No Thief Would Dare to Steal Your iPhone After the iOS 17.3 Update

    Apple has recently released the iOS 17.2 update, which introduced new features like the Daily app and brought various improvements. However, the company is already working on the next version, and today they have released the first developer beta version of iOS 17.3. This new update comes with some exciting new features, with the most noteworthy being the “stolen device protection” that aims to secure your stolen device. Here are the details about the iOS 17.3 update.

    Protecting Your Valuable iPhone

    With the increasing prices of smartphones, which can easily exceed $1,000, these devices have become prime targets for thieves. Not only are they valuable as spare parts, but they also contain personal information ranging from financial data to precious memories. Recognizing this issue, the upcoming iOS 17.3 update aims to provide a solution.

    Enhancing the Lost Mode

    iOS already offers a “Lost Mode” for stolen devices, but sometimes scammers can bypass this mode by tricking users into revealing their passwords. For example, they might pose as the police and claim to have found the stolen device, asking the user to verify their password. This allows them to reset the phone and gain unauthorized access to personal data. Fortunately, the new “stolen device protection” feature in iOS 17.3 aims to prevent this situation.

    Biometric Authentication for Added Security

    With the iOS 17.3 update, activating the “Lost Mode” on your iPhone will now require biometric authentication for every critical operation. Whether you’re logging into your banking app or resetting your phone, you will need to authenticate using Face ID before proceeding. This simple yet effective method adds an extra layer of security and ensures that even in the event of unauthorized access, your personal data and phone remain protected. However, it’s important to note that this feature is currently in the beta phase and will be available to users in the future.

    In conclusion, the iOS 17.3 update brings a significant improvement in protecting stolen devices. By requiring biometric authentication for critical operations, it becomes much more difficult for thieves to bypass the “Lost Mode” and gain unauthorized access to personal information. With this update, Apple aims to provide iPhone users with peace of mind and ensure that no thief would dare to steal their valuable devices.

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  • Xiaomi introduces HyperOS for detecting and alerting against pornographic apps – clarified by Xiaomi

    Xiaomi introduces HyperOS for detecting and alerting against pornographic apps – clarified by Xiaomi

    Xiaomi’s HyperOS System Update Misunderstandings

    Xiaomi’s HyperOS system has recently been at the center of a controversy due to claims that it can intercept and notify authorities about the presence of pornographic apps. The controversy stemmed from a doctored screenshot shared by a TikTok user on the internet. This fabricated screenshot falsely portrayed an update log for HyperOS, claiming that the system now could automatically identify and report pornographic apps to 110. This misleading information caused widespread confusion and misinformation.

    Xiaomi Addresses Misinformation

    Wang Hua, Xiaomi‘s General Manager of Public Relations, took proactive steps to counter this misinformation through a public statement. He expressed his concern about the rapid spread of rumors in the contemporary digital era, highlighting the shift from trusting visual evidence to the widespread dissemination of false information based on a single image or even a digitally altered picture.

    Hua highlighted that although the misleading content had been taken down from the social media platform where it initially appeared, the rumor persisted in various online communities and forums. In response, he shared genuine screenshots for comparison and urged the online community to help spread accurate information.

    Genuine Update Logs Dispel Rumors

    The genuine update logs for HyperOS across various device models showed that the actual update was focused on improving system security by incorporating the Google security patch (2023#11) for November 2023. This was in stark contrast to the assertions presented in the altered image.

    HyperOS: An Integrated Operating System

    HyperOS, developed by Xiaomi, is an operating system designed to integrate multiple aspects of the user’s digital life, including smartphones, vehicles, and home devices. It has been rolled out to numerous Xiaomi and Redmi models.

    Upcoming Xiaomi Products

    Furthermore, Xiaomi is in the process of developing a new smartwatch called Xiaomi H, which will come equipped with HyperOS. Additionally, there has been a leak revealing the initial list of global Xiaomi smartphones set to receive the HyperOS update.

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