Category: Software

  • Samsung Reveals Cutting-Edge Tizen and Ecosystem Features at CES 2024

    Samsung Reveals Cutting-Edge Tizen and Ecosystem Features at CES 2024

    Samsung Unveils 2024 TV Lineup and Enhanced Tizen OS

    Samsung has recently announced its 2024 television lineup and an upgraded version of its Tizen operating system ahead of CES 2024. The company’s focus is on improving the home TV experience by offering personalized features, gaming enhancements, and accessibility options.

    Personalized Tizen OS and Revamped TV Plus Interface

    The new Tizen OS for 2024 puts emphasis on personalization through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). This allows for customized content and services for different household members through individual profiles on their smart TVs. Additionally, Samsung has redesigned its TV Plus interface, providing users with a more intuitive home screen for easier navigation and faster content discovery. The updated interface now connects with Samsung accounts, offering personalized content recommendations and easy access to preferred channels based on viewing history.

    Gaming Enhancements and Updated Ecosystem

    Samsung has partnered with Performance Designed Products (PDP) to release a specially designed wireless controller for the Samsung Gaming Hub. This controller comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that offers up to 40 hours of playtime, a 30-foot Bluetooth connection range, and dedicated buttons for gaming and TV volume control.

    The updated ecosystem from Samsung focuses on connected and inclusive experiences, with Samsung Daily+ serving as a central hub. This feature combines personal training, telehealth services, video calls, and remote PC solutions. The new additions to this ecosystem include the Workout Tracker, TechnoGym and F45 fitness content, FlexIt live fitness sessions, and Tail veterinary consultations.

    Seamless Connectivity and Accessibility Features

    Samsung introduces Multi Control, a connectivity feature that allows users to manage multiple screens using a single Bluetooth keyboard or mouse. This feature aims to improve work-from-home efficiency. The latest Samsung TVs also enhance compatibility across devices, simplifying seamless connections between TVs, smartphones, and wearables.

    The company has also introduced the SmartThings Mobile Plugin, which turns smartphones into versatile remotes for new apps and services. Additionally, Samsung extends its 360 Audio feature to TVs, providing users with immersive audio experiences. The Vibrary feature allows users to enjoy high-quality images and music from both their TV and mobile devices.

    Samsung places great importance on accessibility and has introduced innovative features to cater to users with disabilities. The Audio Subtitle feature, which uses AI and OCR, provides voice-guidance for embedded subtitles directly on the TV. The company also offers the Remote for Barrier-Free app to assist users with disabilities. Moreover, Samsung introduces the AI-powered Relumino Together Mode to aid those with low vision.

    Conclusion

    Samsung’s 2024 TV lineup and Tizen OS updates offer a more personalized, connected, and inclusive home entertainment experience. With a focus on gaming, fitness, and accessibility, Samsung aims to make its TVs the center of the smart home.

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  • OPPO Reno 11 Series to Receive Three OS Updates and Preloaded with ColorOS 14 in India

    OPPO Reno 11 Series to Receive Three OS Updates and Preloaded with ColorOS 14 in India

    OPPO Reno 11 Series to Come with Long Software Support

    OPPO is all set to launch its Reno 11 series in India on January 12, consisting of a standard and pro model. The brand has already revealed the key specifications and features of the upcoming smartphones ahead of the official launch event later this week. Now, OPPO has announced the software support duration for the Reno 11 series.

    Software Support Duration

    OPPO released ColorOS 14 in November last year, and now the brand has confirmed that the Reno 11 series will be the first smartphones in the country to come pre-installed with ColorOS 14-based Android 14 out of the box. In addition, the Reno 11 series will be eligible for three OS updates and four years of security patches. This means that the devices will receive updates up to Android 17 version.

    ColorOS 14 Features

    ColorOS 14 introduces Aquamorphic design, which seamlessly integrates common elements such as bubbles and capsules into the status bar without cluttering the display. The Go Green style for Always-on Display (AOD) promotes environmental consciousness. The update also brings performance improvements, enhanced security and privacy features, and AI-powered capabilities. For a detailed list of changes in ColorOS 14, you can visit the official website.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Reno 11 series is confirmed to feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen with curved edges, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ certification. The upcoming smartphones boast a slim design with a pill-shaped camera module. The Reno 11 series will house a 50MP main sensor, a 32MP telephoto unit, and an additional camera. For selfies, there will be a 32MP front-facing snapper.

    Conclusion

    With the Reno 11 series, OPPO is not only bringing impressive specifications but also ensuring long-term software support for its customers. The devices will come with ColorOS 14-based Android 14 out of the box and will receive three OS updates and four years of security patches. This commitment to software support ensures that users can enjoy up-to-date features and security enhancements on their Reno 11 smartphones for years to come.

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  • Latest Windows 11 Insider Build Sees Microsoft Parting Ways with WordPad

    Latest Windows 11 Insider Build Sees Microsoft Parting Ways with WordPad

    Farewell to WordPad and People App

    Microsoft has announced that WordPad, the text editor that has been a part of Windows for nearly 30 years, will be removed from the operating system in a future update. The latest Windows 11 Insider build (26020) no longer includes WordPad, and this change is intended to be permanent. Users will not be able to reinstall the program through official channels after the stable build rolls out to the public.

    The announcement was made on the Windows Insider Blog along with other new features of the Windows 11 Insider build (26020). These features include enhanced voice access tools and improved text-to-speech voices. However, the removal of WordPad stands out due to its long history and familiarity with many users. According to the blog post, starting with this build, WordPad and the People app will no longer be installed after doing a clean install of the OS. In a future flight, WordPad will be removed on upgrade, and it will not be reinstallable. The blog post also mentions that WordPad is a deprecated Windows feature.

    WordPad has not received updates in years and was considered to be somewhere between a basic notepad and a full-fledged word processor. While it was free and did not require internet access, most users have found better alternatives elsewhere. Therefore, the removal of WordPad is not a huge surprise.

    In addition to WordPad, the People app will also be removed, and the Steps Recorder will no longer receive updates. Microsoft suggests ClipChamp as a potential replacement for the Steps Recorder.

    Updates to Notepad and Other Additions

    While WordPad is bidding farewell, Notepad, the reliable text editor, continues to see changes. The latest build of Windows 11 adds some improvements to Notepad, including accessibility tweaks for voice control and the ability to pause and resume printing. However, some users may find the constant tinkering with Notepad unnecessary.

    Apart from these changes, the new build of Windows 11 brings a few other noteworthy additions. Users will now receive a notification when their computer is in energy saver mode, which can be helpful in managing power consumption. Additionally, users can now give their devices more descriptive names, making it easier to share and identify them.

    Overall, while the removal of WordPad may disappoint some longtime users, it is clear that Microsoft is focusing on enhancing other features and providing better alternatives for text editing and productivity. Users can explore various third-party applications that offer more advanced functionality and modern design.

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  • Yonyou Enters New Era with President Wang Wenjing’s Resignation

    Yonyou Enters New Era with President Wang Wenjing’s Resignation

    Change: The Crucial Element for Advancement

    Change is an inevitable force that drives progress in various sectors, particularly in technology. Wang Wenjing, previously celebrated as the ‘king of software’ in China, has recently relinquished his position as president of Yonyou Network Technology. This shift signifies a significant transformation for the company, a prominent figure in enterprise management systems over the years.

    Despite stepping down from the presidency, Wang continues to play a vital role at Yonyou as its chairman and CEO, focusing on strategic initiatives and product innovation.

    Yonyou Confronts Uphill Battles

    Yonyou, renowned for its enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, has encountered its fair share of obstacles. In the post-pandemic world, businesses globally have faced challenges, and Yonyou is no exception. Established in 1988, the company has experienced more prosperous times, with recent years marked by sluggish sales and escalating losses. Nevertheless, Yonyou’s resilience remains noteworthy, as it maintains a prestigious position among the top 10 ERP software providers on a global scale.

    A Novel Perspective Brought by the New President

    The selection of Chen Qiangbin, a seasoned individual at Yonyou, as the new president represents a strategic maneuver. Chen’s extensive background in software development, sales, and management offers a fresh outlook and potentially a new trajectory for the company. His expertise could prove instrumental in navigating current market adversities and capitalizing on opportunities within China’s thriving digital economy.

    Flexibility and Metamorphosis

    Yonyou’s evolution over the years, transitioning from selling software licenses to providing cloud-based services, showcases adaptability—an indispensable quality in the dynamic tech industry. In 2022, cloud services constituted a significant portion of the company’s revenue, underscoring its successful pivot towards a software-as-a-service model. This transformation might serve as the impetus required for Yonyou to regain profitability.

    Tenacity in the Midst of Challenges

    Despite the challenges posed by the current economic landscape impacting the tech sector, Yonyou’s third-quarter results last year displayed promising indicators, with revenue growth evident across all sectors. This resilience in the face of adversity is commendable and indicates a continued strong demand for ERP systems.

    An Encouraging Tomorrow

    Wang Wenjing’s voyage alongside Yonyou, from its initial days focusing on accounting software to now competing with global titans such as Oracle and SAP, has been extraordinary. As Yonyou navigates through this transitional phase, drawing upon lessons from its history coupled with a novel leadership strategy, the future appears promising. The company’s expansive global footprint, with over 230 branches worldwide, positions it favorably to seize new prospects and surmount existing challenges. Only time will unveil what lies ahead for the company.

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  • Crucial Feature That Gmail for Android Has Been Missing Since Its Launch Is Now Finally Implemented

    Crucial Feature That Gmail for Android Has Been Missing Since Its Launch Is Now Finally Implemented

    Differences in Features between Android and iOS Versions of Apps

    It is not uncommon to find differences between the Android and iOS versions of the same app. Sometimes, one version may have features that are missing in the other. For instance, Instagram on iOS tends to maintain higher post quality compared to its Android counterpart, leading many content creators to prefer using iPhones over Android flagship smartphones.

    However, what if Google, the company behind Android, had actually made the iOS app better than the Android one? You probably wouldn’t have expected such a scandal, right? Surprisingly, this was the case until recently when a crucial Gmail feature, previously only available on iOS, finally made its way to the Android app. Let’s delve into the details.

    Android’s Gmail App Adopts ‘Select All’ from iOS Version

    Gmail, Google’s popular email app, is available on both Android and iOS platforms. Personally, I have been using it on my iPhone for years and, in my opinion, it surpasses other options. One of the most useful features for me has been the ability to “select all” while deleting unnecessary emails. Nowadays, we receive emails from various platforms on a daily basis.

    Even when a friend sends you a direct message on Twitter, you end up receiving an email notification about it. Dealing with such spam and notifications can be overwhelming, which is why the ‘select all’ function has been a lifesaver. However, despite being available on iPhones for a long time, this feature was missing from the Android Gmail application until recently.

    Fortunately, it seems that Google has finally listened to its users and developed this much-requested feature. Although it is not yet available on every phone, it is expected to be accessible to all users through upcoming updates. However, it’s important to note that this feature does not allow you to select all emails for deletion. Instead, it only enables you to select and delete 50 emails per page. If you wish to delete all emails, here are the steps you need to follow:

    Steps to Delete All Emails on Computer:

    1. Sign in to Gmail.
    2. Click on the checkbox below the search box in the upper left corner.
    3. A warning message saying “Select all x conversations” will appear. Click on this warning message to select all emails.
    4. Click on the “Delete” button at the top.

    Steps to Delete All Emails on Mobile:

    1. Open the Gmail app.
    2. Open your inbox.
    3. Tap on the three dots in the upper left corner.
    4. Tap on “Select all”.
    5. Tap on the “Delete” button at the top.

    By following these steps, you can delete all emails in your inbox. Deleted emails will be moved to your trash folder and will be permanently deleted after 30 days.

    In conclusion, the Android Gmail app has finally adopted the ‘select all’ feature from its iOS counterpart. While it may not be available on all devices just yet, it is expected to be rolled out to all users through future updates. This improvement will undoubtedly make managing emails on the Android platform much easier and more efficient.

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  • OxygenOS 14 Update Now Ready for OnePlus 9R and 8T

    OxygenOS 14 Update Now Ready for OnePlus 9R and 8T

    Latest Stable Update OxygenOS 14 Now Available for OnePlus 8T and OnePlus 9R

    After much anticipation, the Stable OxygenOS 14 update, which is based on Android 14, is finally being deployed to the OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8T smartphones. This update introduces a range of thrilling new modifications and feature enhancements. Presently, the update is exclusively accessible for the India editions of both phones. Initially, the rollout will target closed beta and open beta users before gradually becoming available to all regular users.

    Firmware Specifics

    The OnePlus 8T is getting the firmware KB2001_14.0.0.200 (EX01), whereas the OnePlus 9R is being upgraded with the firmware LE2101_14.0.0.300 (EX01). Both devices are sharing the same update log, showcasing noteworthy inclusions such as:

    Introduction of New File Dock and Content Extraction Attributes

    Among the key highlights of this update is the integration of the File Dock and Content Extraction attributes. Through the File Dock attribute, users can now effortlessly move files between applications, simplifying file management tasks. Moreover, the Content Extraction attribute empowers users to identify and extract text directly from the screen, making tasks involving information extraction from various sources more efficient.

    Various Enhancements

    Apart from the features mentioned above, the Stable OxygenOS 14 update introduces numerous other enhancements to enrich the overall user experience. Although the official log furnishes a comprehensive list of these enhancements, specific details are left unspecified.

    It is crucial to acknowledge that, at present, this update is solely accessible for the India variants of the OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8T. Users residing outside India might experience a slight delay in receiving the update for their devices. Nonetheless, OnePlus has a reputation for swift software updates, indicating that the Stable OxygenOS 14 update will soon be globally accessible.

    To ensure a seamless installation process, it is advisable to possess a stable internet connection and ample battery life before commencing the update. Users can manually search for the update by navigating to Settings > System > System Updates.

    Once the Stable OxygenOS 14 update is successfully installed, users of OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8T can relish the new features and enhancements it brings along. Whether it’s the convenience facilitated by the File Dock attribute or the efficiency boosted by the Content Extraction feature, this update strives to elevate the overall usability and functionality of the devices.

    In summary, the Stable OxygenOS 14 update is now making its way to OnePlus 9R and OnePlus 8T smartphones, introducing exciting new changes and feature enhancements. Users are now able to make the most of the advantages offered by the File Dock and Content Extraction attributes, alongside other enhancements designed to elevate the overall user experience. While the update is currently limited to India editions, it is anticipated to become available worldwide soon.

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  • Elon Musk’s Twitter (X) Value Drops to $12 Billion, a 71% Decrease from $44B Acquisition

    Elon Musk’s Twitter (X) Value Drops to $12 Billion, a 71% Decrease from $44B Acquisition

    Elon Musk’s Twitter Acquisition: A 71% Decline in Value

    Elon Musk, the renowned billionaire behind Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink, is also known for his acquisition of the social media platform Twitter (X) for a staggering $44 billion. However, recent reports reveal that X’s value has plummeted by 71%, currently standing at $12 billion. Let’s delve into the details of this significant decline.

    Challenges in Monetizing Twitter

    Since taking over Twitter, Musk has been tirelessly working to address the platform’s biggest challenge of monetization. However, there have been stumbling blocks along the way, with Musk’s responses to criticisms drawing attention.

    One notable incident involved accusations of antisemitism on the platform. When questioned about his stance on the matter, Musk responded with an expletive-laden expression, which only further exacerbated the situation. These controversies have resulted in new problems rather than solving existing ones.

    Loss of Advertising Agreements

    The consequences of such controversies have been evident in the form of terminated advertising agreements. Prominent companies like Apple have severed their ties with Twitter under Musk’s leadership. In an attempt to mitigate these issues and reduce reliance on advertising, the company introduced features like ad-free streaming and curated sharing through the X Premium subscription, developed in collaboration with Grok AI. Unfortunately, these efforts have not yielded the desired results, as X’s value continues to decline.

    Fidelity’s Impact on X’s Value

    Fidelity, a mutual fund that initially supported Musk’s acquisition of X, played a significant role in the platform’s decline. The fund reduced X’s value by a staggering 71.5%, causing the platform’s worth to plummet to only 28.5% of its original $44 billion acquisition value in 2022. In contrast, competitors such as Meta and Snap have experienced increased stock values, positioning themselves as more secure advertising options compared to X.

    The Road Ahead for Elon Musk and Twitter

    With X’s value taking a significant hit, Elon Musk faces an uphill battle in revitalizing the platform’s fortunes. The challenges of monetization and controversies surrounding the platform require careful navigation and strategic decision-making. As Musk continues to juggle his numerous successful ventures, it remains to be seen how he will steer Twitter towards a path of profitability and regain its lost value.

    In conclusion, Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter (X) for $44 billion has resulted in a substantial decline in its value, now standing at $12 billion, a 71% decrease. The challenges in monetization, coupled with controversies and terminated advertising agreements, have contributed to this decline. As Musk strives to address these issues, the future of Twitter under his leadership remains uncertain.

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  • WhatsApp backups will consume Google Drive storage starting 2024

    WhatsApp backups will consume Google Drive storage starting 2024

    Android users will soon see a change in how WhatsApp backups are stored in Google Drive. The company recently announced updated terms that will no longer exempt WhatsApp data from consuming storage space. Although no specific date has been set, users on the app’s beta version are already experiencing this change. This means that backups, including chat history, images, and videos, will now count towards your Google Drive storage quota, regardless of whether you have a free or paid plan.

    WhatsApp Backups Transition to Google Drive Storage

    WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, confirmed that this change will apply to all Android users in the first half of 2024. To ensure users are aware of this transition, a 30-day notification will be displayed as a banner in the app’s Chat Backup settings prior to the change taking effect.

    For those concerned about their chat history taking up valuable space in their Google Drive, there are alternative options available to manage storage:

    Direct Transfer

    One option is to utilize the built-in WhatsApp Chat Transfer tool, which allows for seamless migration of data to a new device. This process requires both phones to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, but an internet connection is not necessary. By using this feature, you can transfer your data without relying on Google Drive storage.

    Text-Only Backups

    Another space-saving approach is to opt for text-only backups. This means that only text messages will be backed up, excluding media files such as images and videos. By choosing this option, you can significantly reduce the amount of storage space required for your WhatsApp backups.

    Aligning Android with iPhone Users

    This policy shift brings Android users in line with iPhone users, who have always had their WhatsApp backups count towards their iCloud storage. It serves as a reminder for all users to be mindful of their cloud storage usage, especially as free plans are becoming more limited in size.

    Prepare for the New Landscape

    Android users should plan ahead and consider their options for managing WhatsApp backups in Google Drive. Whether it’s transferring chats, reducing the size of media files, or switching to text-only backups, it’s important to be prepared for the changes that will soon take place in WhatsApp’s Google Drive storage. Stay tuned for the 30-day notification and make the necessary adjustments to ensure your data is stored efficiently.

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  • LG Ensures 5-Year Updates for WebOS TVs

    LG Ensures 5-Year Updates for WebOS TVs

    LG’s Dedication to Software Updates for webOS Televisions

    Within the realm of consumer electronics, software’s role becomes crucial in enhancing performance, introducing novel features, resolving glitches, and bolstering device security. While the discourse around software updates typically revolves around smartphones, their significance extends to other smart technologies. Recognizing this, LG has made a noteworthy proclamation regarding its webOS televisions.

    The Significance of Updates for Intelligent Televisions

    The emergence of digital content platforms like YouTube and Netflix has transformed how media is consumed, leading to the widespread adoption of smart TVs. This enables users to enjoy their favorite content conveniently. Moreover, innovations such as the Xiaomi TV Stick have facilitated the conversion of older TVs into smart ones. Nonetheless, the reliance on smart devices presents various challenges.

    One notable challenge of owning multiple smart devices is the necessity for consistent updates. Even Android phones have encountered issues in this aspect, and the same holds true for smart TVs. Addressing this concern, LG has taken a significant stride by committing to providing five years of updates for webOS TVs.

    LG’s Assurance of Five Years of Updates for webOS Televisions

    LG has recently announced its pledge to deliver a minimum of five years of updates for webOS TVs. This development is particularly promising for consumers looking to ensure that their smart TVs remain current and perform optimally throughout their usage lifespan. Nevertheless, it is important to highlight that this update guarantee exclusively applies to LG smart TVs manufactured in 2024 and beyond.

    This approach mirrors Google’s comprehensive update support for its Pixel smartphones, while leaving other manufacturers accountable for managing updates independently. Hence, it remains the responsibility of manufacturers of webOS televisions from other brands to offer updates for their respective products.

    Conclusion

    As the demand for smart TVs continues to surge, manufacturers must prioritize software updates to secure the longevity and efficiency of these devices. LG’s commitment to delivering a minimum of five years of updates for webOS televisions represents a positive stride in the right direction. This pledge not only enhances the user experience but also underscores the company’s dedication to customer satisfaction and the overarching advancement of smart technologies.

    Note: The original text does not contain pricing and specification details.

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  • Asus Zenfone 10 Receives Long-Awaited Android 14 Update

    Asus Zenfone 10 Receives Long-Awaited Android 14 Update

    Asus Launches Android 14 Update for Zenfone 10 Devices

    The global rollout of the Android 14 update for Zenfone 10 models, including those available in the EU, has commenced by Asus. This latest software iteration, version 34.1004.0204.65, introduces multiple enhancements and features intended to elevate user satisfaction.

    Instructions for Update Acquisition

    To obtain the Android 14 update, ensure your Zenfone 10 operates on software version 33.0220.0220.101. This update, sized at approximately 1.3GB, is progressively being disseminated to devices based on their serial numbers. Consequently, it may take several days for all users to receive the update.

    Noteworthy Alterations in the Update

    • Overhauled System Applications: Various system apps like Mobile Manager, Contacts, Phone, Emergency Dialer, File Manager, Calculator, Clock, Gallery, Weather, Sound recorder, Settings, Phone Clone, Local backup, and Launcher have undergone a makeover. These modifications aim to offer a revitalized and enhanced user interface.
    • Customization Capabilities: Users now possess the liberty to personalize the color and brightness of the clock widget on the lock screen. This feature enables a more tailored and visually appealing lock screen encounter.
    • Improved Permissions: A fresh "Photos and Videos" permission is introduced in the update, alongside a system photo picker. This empowers users with better control over app access to their photos and videos, ensuring heightened privacy and security.
    • Battery Usage Presentation: The display format for battery usage has been tweaked, enabling users to observe app usage in segments. This functionality imparts a clearer insight into which apps are utilizing the most battery power.
    • Audio Refinements: The update rectifies speakerphone call echo concerns and optimizes Bluetooth connectivity. It also mitigates sporadic headset disconnections and noise issues, guaranteeing a smoother and more dependable audio encounter.
    • Enhancements to Power Menu: ASUS has tackled previous power menu restrictions by integrating restart and shutdown options. These additions offer users more convenient avenues to manage their device’s power settings.

    Alternative Manual Update Method

    Should you not have received the update notification, you can manually verify its availability in the Settings section. Simply navigate to Settings > System > System updates to check for the update’s presence on your device. It is advisable to back up your data before proceeding with the update, as certain third-party apps may not be entirely compatible with Android.

    In conclusion, the Android 14 update for Zenfone 10 introduces an array of enhancements and features designed to enrich the user experience. With revamped system apps, customization choices, improved permissions, optimized battery usage display, audio enhancements, and power menu refinements, users can anticipate a more sophisticated and gratifying smartphone journey.

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