Category: Software

  • JD.com, NetEase, and Meituan Embrace Huawei’s HarmonyOS, Preparing to Depart from Android

    JD.com, NetEase, and Meituan Embrace Huawei’s HarmonyOS, Preparing to Depart from Android

    Chinese Tech Companies Recruiting HarmonyOS App Developers in Shift Away from Android

    Several major Chinese tech companies, including JD.com, NetEase, and Meituan, are actively recruiting HarmonyOS app developers in a strategic move that signals a departure from Google's Android ecosystem. This shift aligns with Huawei's broader strategy to establish HarmonyOS as a robust alternative ecosystem within China, reducing dependence on Android due to US sanctions.

    HarmonyOS Recruitment Drive

    Meituan, a leading service platform, is currently seeking HarmonyOS infrastructure engineers and is offering competitive monthly salaries ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 yuan for developers with HarmonyOS experience. Similarly, JD.com and NetEase are specifically looking for developers to create applications tailored for Huawei smartphones using the HarmonyOS platform.

    The recruitment drive is backed by Huawei's success in positioning HarmonyOS on over 700 million devices, with more than 2.2 million third-party developers actively contributing to the platform. Richard Yu Chengdong, CEO of Huawei's consumer business group, announced that the upcoming iteration, HarmonyOS Next, will sever ties with Android-based apps, further solidifying Huawei's commitment to the HarmonyOS ecosystem.

    HarmonyOS Next: Boosting Huawei's Position

    Scheduled for a developer preview release in the first quarter of next year, HarmonyOS Next aims to bolster Huawei's position as mainland China's fastest-growing smartphone vendor. The successful launch of Mate 60 Pro in August 2023 marked Huawei's 5G comeback, garnering significant public support and recording an impressive 37% year-on-year growth in the third quarter, according to Counterpoint Research's October report.

    HarmonyOS was introduced in August 2019 as a response to Huawei's addition to the US Entity List, which restricted its access to essential Google apps and services. Since the 2019 trade ban, Huawei has faced challenges in its relationship with Android, impacting global smartphone sales. In 2021, Huawei introduced HarmonyOS as an Android-based platform, aiming to replace Android while retaining sideloadable apps.

    The Shift Away from Android

    The recent push towards "HarmonyOS Next" represents a crucial step in Huawei's journey to distance itself from Android entirely. Reports suggest that the new version will not support APK files, opting for "HAP," a component of a full app package, as indicated on HarmonyOS' developer website. A hands-on demo in August revealed that APK files could not be opened, despite the user interface resembling Huawei's familiar Android-based designs.

    However, the decision to abandon Android entirely remains speculative, and more details are anticipated with the official release of "HarmonyOS Next" next year. As Huawei continues to make strides in developing its alternative ecosystem, the tech landscape in China may witness a significant shift away from the once-dominant Android platform.

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  • Users Gain Independence to Delete Their Threads Account

    Users Gain Independence to Delete Their Threads Account

    Meta has announced two welcome changes to its social media platform, Threads by Instagram. Previously, users were unable to delete their Threads accounts without also deleting their Instagram accounts. However, with the new update, users now have the ability to delete their Threads account independently. This change allows for more control over their Instagram and Threads accounts. The feature can be accessed from the Settings menu in the Delete or Deactivate Profile section. Users can then choose their preferred option, and their Instagram account will not be affected.

    Another significant change is the privacy concern regarding the content shared by Threads users. Previously, the content was visible to users on Facebook and Instagram, which raised privacy issues. However, with the latest update, a new option has been added under Settings > Privacy. This option allows users to 'opt out of being featured outside Threads', providing them with more control over their privacy.

    Both of these changes are rolling out to all users, and it is recommended that users update their Threads app to the latest version to access these new features. These updates address some of the major drawbacks that users had experienced with the Threads platform, and it is expected to improve the overall user experience.

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  • Samsung received $8 billion from Google to secure its role as the default search engine, app store, and voice assistant.

    Samsung received $8 billion from Google to secure its role as the default search engine, app store, and voice assistant.

    Google’s Multibillion-Dollar Strategy to Dominate Android Ecosystem

    In a recent antitrust trial involving Google and Epic Games, significant information has come to light regarding Google’s tactics to maintain its dominant position within the Android market. A key aspect of this strategy involves its relationship with Samsung, the largest Android Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

    A Lucrative Partnership

    According to a Bloomberg report, Google paid Samsung a substantial $8 billion over a four-year period to ensure that its key services, including Google Search, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store, remained the default options on Samsung Galaxy devices. This move was part of Google’s broader agenda to solidify its presence within the Android ecosystem and discourage OEMs from promoting competing services. For instance, Samsung has its own Bixby voice assistant and Galaxy Store, which could have potentially overshadowed Google’s offerings.

    The Crucial Role of Samsung Devices

    James Kolotouros, Google’s Vice President for Partnerships, revealed these details during his testimony. He emphasized that Samsung’s contribution accounted for more than half of the Google Play Store’s revenue, underscoring the crucial role of Samsung devices in Google’s ecosystem.

    Project Banyan: Securing Dominance

    This partnership between Google and Samsung forms part of a larger initiative by Google, known as Project Banyan, aimed at maintaining the dominance of its services on Android devices. Under this project, Google not only secured its apps’ pre-eminence on devices but also shared advertising revenue and offered incentives to OEMs for prioritizing Google’s apps. For instance, in 2020, Google proposed spending $2.9 billion, which would increase to $4.5 billion by 2023, to ensure the availability of its search, Play, and other critical apps on various devices, including those from non-Android OEMs and wireless carriers.

    Responding to Competition

    Furthermore, Google’s agreement with Samsung initially included a proposal to prevent the Galaxy Store from being placed on home screens, though this plan was later abandoned. This strategy was partly in response to competition from Apple, as Google aimed to improve the Android experience to attract potential iPhone switchers.

    Overall, the revelations from the antitrust trial shed light on Google’s multibillion-dollar strategy to dominate the Android ecosystem. By investing heavily in its partnership with Samsung and implementing Project Banyan, Google aims to solidify its position and maintain its control over key services and revenue streams within the Android market.

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  • Introducing WhatsApp Beta’s New Feature: Secure Hidden Codes for Locked Chats

    Introducing WhatsApp Beta’s New Feature: Secure Hidden Codes for Locked Chats

    WhatsApp Introduces Secret Code Feature for Locked Chats

    WhatsApp is constantly improving its user experience through beta testing, where selected users assist in identifying and resolving bugs, refining features, and assessing functionality. Beta testers are given early access to new innovations, allowing for the detection of potential glitches and ensuring stable updates before a global release.

    New Beta Update: Version 2.23.24.20

    In its latest beta update (version 2.23.24.20), WhatsApp has introduced a secret code feature for locked chats. This feature is currently available to some beta testers and aims to enhance privacy by allowing users to hide the entry point to view locked chats.

    How Does the Secret Code Feature Work?

    With the secret code feature, users can configure a secret code that will make the entry point disappear from the chat list. Instead, users can access locked chats by entering the secret code in the Chats tab's search bar. Additionally, WhatsApp is adding a new feature that enables users to easily clear their list of locked chats directly from the privacy settings. This is particularly useful for users who may forget their secret code, as it prevents them from being locked out of their conversations.

    Enhanced Privacy and Security

    The secret code feature ensures that locked conversations remain hidden, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access or accidental exposure. Even if someone gains physical access to a user's phone, they will not be able to access these secured conversations without the secret code.

    Gradual Rollout and Future Updates

    WhatsApp plans to gradually roll out the secret code feature to more users in the coming weeks. The company aims to gather feedback and make any necessary improvements before potentially releasing it as a stable update in the future.

    Ongoing Development of New Features

    Aside from the secret code feature, WhatsApp is also working on other features to further enhance user privacy and convenience. One of these features includes the ability to hide IP addresses during calls, providing an additional layer of privacy. Additionally, WhatsApp is developing an alternate profile feature that allows users to separate their work and personal communication within the app.

    In-App Ads Confirmed by WhatsApp Head

    Furthermore, WhatsApp has confirmed its intention to introduce in-app ads. The head of WhatsApp has acknowledged this plan, indicating that users can expect to see advertisements within the app in the future.

    WhatsApp remains committed to continuously improving its platform and ensuring a seamless user experience. Through beta testing and the introduction of new features, the company aims to provide enhanced privacy, security, and functionality for its global user base.

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  • Apple Turns to iOS 18 for Reviving Lackluster iPhone 16

    Apple Turns to iOS 18 for Reviving Lackluster iPhone 16

    Major iOS 18 Upgrade Essential for Unimpressive iPhone 16

    Apple recently unveiled the iPhone 15 series and the new operating system iOS 17 at a September event. However, the tech giant wasted no time and immediately began working on the iPhone 16 and iOS 18. It seems that Apple had good reason to start early, as iOS 18 is expected to bring significant changes to the iPhone.

    Issues with iOS 18 Development

    In recent weeks, iOS 18 has been in the spotlight due to some issues in its development process. Apple has suspended the development process to address these issues, showing their commitment to delivering a high-quality operating system. The company understands the importance of iOS 18 in revolutionizing the iPhone experience.

    Lack of Innovation in iPhone 16

    Industry predictions and insights from Mark Gurman suggest that the iPhone 16 series may not bring significant hardware changes. While there may be an increase in screen sizes, Apple plans to compensate for the lack of hardware innovation with software updates. Apple has already completed the basic versions of iOS 18 and macOS releases, but the suspension of the development process indicates the presence of underlying problems.

    Concerns about iOS 18 Features

    While the specifics of the new features in iOS 18 remain unknown, recent developments have raised concerns that Apple may go overboard with the new version. Balancing new hardware and features can be challenging, and there is a possibility that the iPhone models receiving the iOS 18 update may disappoint users in terms of performance.

    Expected iPhone Models to Receive iOS 18 Update

    Not all iPhone models are guaranteed to receive the iOS 18 update. In the past, the iPhone 8 and iPhone X did not receive the iOS 17 update. This year, it is expected that three models from the current lineup will not be eligible for the update. The following is a list of iPhone models expected to receive the iOS 18 update:

    • iPhone 15 Pro Max (2023)
    • iPhone 15 Pro (2023)
    • iPhone 15 (2023)
    • iPhone 15 Plus (2023)
    • iPhone 14 Pro Max (2022)
    • iPhone 14 Pro (2022)
    • iPhone 14 (2022)
    • iPhone 14 Plus (2022)
    • iPhone SE (2022)
    • iPhone 13 Pro Max (2021)
    • iPhone 13 Pro (2021)
    • iPhone 13 (2021)
    • iPhone 13 mini (2021)
    • iPhone 12 Pro Max (2020)
    • iPhone 12 Pro (2020)
    • iPhone 12 (2020)
    • iPhone 12 mini (2020)
    • iPhone SE (2020)
    • iPhone 11 (2019)

    Please note that this list is subject to change and may not be final.

    With iOS 18 expected to bring significant changes, Apple is working diligently to resolve quality issues and deliver a remarkable operating system. The combination of software updates and potential hardware improvements will determine the overall success of the iPhone 16 series. Apple enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the release of iOS 18 and the next generation of iPhones.

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  • iOS 17.2 to Introduce Sideloading Feature on iPhone, Announces Apple

    iOS 17.2 to Introduce Sideloading Feature on iPhone, Announces Apple

    Apple Relents on Sideloading APKs on iPhone Following EU Ruling

    Apple, known for its strict regulations and oversight, is now facing a new challenge to its App Store monopoly. In a European Union ruling, Apple has been forced to implement new rules that will allow iPhone users to install APKs, or Android Package Kit files, on their devices. This move comes after Apple switched from the Lightning port to the USB-C port in its iPhone 15 series, following another EU decision last year.

    Opening Up New Possibilities for iPhone Users

    For Android users, installing applications outside of the Google Play Store using APK files is a common practice. However, iPhone users have been limited to Apple's rules and the App Store as their only source for apps. But with the new ruling, the ability to install APKs on the iPhone will soon become a reality.

    It's important to note that when we refer to "installing APK on the iPhone," we are using familiar terminology. APK files are specific to the Android platform, while the iOS equivalent is IPA, or iOS App Store Package files. Both file types contain the application's code, images, and resources.

    The Digital Markets Act and Sideloading

    The European Union's Digital Markets Act, which came into effect on November 1, 2022, allows Apple users to sideload applications on their iPhones. Sideloading refers to the installation of applications outside of the official app store. While the law is already in effect, Apple has requested additional time to implement the feature, citing system readiness. The EU has granted this request, with the condition that the feature be introduced no later than the iOS 17.2 update in 2024.

    Apple's Dilemma and Concerns

    Apple has the option to not comply with the EU rules but doing so could result in penalties amounting to 20% of its global revenue and even a ban on sales in Europe. Therefore, the tech giant has no choice but to adhere to the ruling. However, Apple has expressed concerns about sideloading.

    One of the main concerns for Apple is the potential disruption to the App Store economy. The company may argue that sideloading could lead to security vulnerabilities, as iPhones are currently considered more secure than Android devices due to their closed-system design. Allowing users to install apps from external sources could potentially change this.

    Another aspect is the financial impact on Apple. The company currently takes a 15% to 30% commission from the earnings of all applications on the App Store. This commission, known as the "Apple Tax," contributes to Apple's revenue. If app developers can bypass the App Store and avoid this commission, it could have significant financial implications for Apple. However, opening the door to pirated installations could also pose challenges for app developers.

    The Future of Apple and App Store Developers

    The future implications of the EU ruling on Apple and App Store developers remain uncertain. While the ability to install APKs on the iPhone is a positive development for users, it raises questions about the potential consequences for app developers and the overall App Store ecosystem. As Apple works towards implementing the new rules, the tech giant will need to find a balance between user freedom and maintaining the security and stability of its platform.

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  • Self-developed satellite communication technology showcased by Honor, anticipated to be incorporated in Magic 6 series

    Self-developed satellite communication technology showcased by Honor, anticipated to be incorporated in Magic 6 series

    Honor Announces Groundbreaking Advancements in Satellite Communication Technology

    At the 2023 Digital Ecosystem Satellite Mobile Communications Industry Development Forum in China, Honor’s General Manager Li Kun made an exciting announcement. He revealed that the company has made significant advancements in its self-developed satellite communication technology.

    Addressing Major Technical Challenges

    Li Kun highlighted that Honor’s solution has successfully tackled three major technical challenges in satellite communication. These challenges include antenna size, call duration, and overall communication experience. With this breakthrough, consumers can expect a seamless satellite communication experience that offers the smallest antenna size, the most stable signal, and the most power-efficient operation.

    Integration into Honor Magic6 Series Smartphones

    Industry insider Digital Chat Station shared that Honor’s new satellite communication technology is expected to be integrated into the upcoming Honor Magic6 series smartphones. These smartphones are scheduled for release before the Spring Festival. Additionally, the Magic6 series devices will also feature Honor’s proprietary low-power calling and heat dissipation technologies, further enhancing the user experience.

    Deepening Integration of Honor’s AI Model with MagicOS

    In another exciting development, Honor CEO Zhao Ming revealed plans to deepen the integration of Honor’s AI model with MagicOS. This integration aims to enhance the overall performance and functionality of Honor devices, providing users with even more advanced features and capabilities.

    On-Device LLM Powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Chip

    Honor had previously teased its on-device LLM (Large Language Model) powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. This innovative technology processes all data stored on the device, including photos, contacts, videos, and more. By utilizing the power of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, the LLM provides users with faster and more reliable results, making their device experience even more seamless and efficient.

    Exciting Prospects for Honor’s Future

    With these recent advancements in satellite communication technology and the integration of AI and LLM capabilities, Honor is setting the stage for an exciting future. Consumers can look forward to Honor devices that offer unparalleled communication experiences, enhanced performance, and advanced features. As Honor continues to innovate and push boundaries, it solidifies its position as a leading player in the mobile communications industry.

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  • iPhone 16 Leverages iOS 18, Packed with Cutting-Edge Generative AI, Marking the Most Significant Upgrade in Years

    iPhone 16 Leverages iOS 18, Packed with Cutting-Edge Generative AI, Marking the Most Significant Upgrade in Years

    Recently, there have been reports that Apple has temporarily paused the development of iOS 18 in order to prioritize fixing bugs in the current software version. However, this delay is not expected to impact the release schedule of the next-generation software version. In the latest Power On newsletter by reliable analyst Mark Gurman, he reveals Apple's plans for iOS 18 and iPhone 16, set to launch next year. iOS 18 is said to be the most significant update in years, compensating for the lack of major hardware changes in the next-generation iPhones.

    Apple Aims to Compete in Generative AI Space

    According to reports, Apple aims to compete against Google and OpenAI in the generative AI space. The tech giant plans to introduce generative AI technology integrated within its software, bringing this advanced technology to iPhones with the release of iOS 18. However, the specific new features that will be included in iOS 18 are yet to be revealed. Gurman mentioned that iOS 18 will follow a few years of modestly sized updates and will be an "ambitious and compelling" update, offering significant new features, design enhancements, and improvements in security and performance.

    iPhone 16 to Rely on iOS 18 for Unique Selling Proposition

    The report also states that the next-generation iPhone 16 will not feature any significant hardware changes. Instead, Apple intends to make iOS 18 the unique selling proposition for the iPhone 16 by loading it with major new features. This explains the recent decision to halt the development of iOS 18 temporarily in order to address any bugs. The last time Apple took such action was in 2019.

    Apple's Development Cycle and iPad Software

    Apple follows a development cycle consisting of four milestones leading up to the Worldwide Developer's Conference in June. Four of these milestones focus on adding new features, while the remaining two are dedicated to bug fixing. Each milestone lasts for six weeks. This time, the company paused development right after the first milestone, allowing an extra week to address any issues.

    Gurman also mentioned that the next version of Apple's software for iPad could be groundbreaking, although no specific details were provided.

    In conclusion, iOS 18 is expected to be a significant update for Apple, compensating for the lack of major hardware changes in the next-generation iPhones. The focus on generative AI technology and the promise of new features, design enhancements, and improved security and performance make iOS 18 an eagerly anticipated release. The decision to temporarily halt development to address bugs demonstrates Apple's commitment to delivering a high-quality software experience.

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  • Windows 10 Mobile App Store appears to be quietly closed by Microsoft.

    Windows 10 Mobile App Store appears to be quietly closed by Microsoft.

    Microsoft Shuts Down Core Functionalities of Windows 10 Mobile App Store

    Microsoft has taken a significant step in phasing out its Windows 10 Mobile platform by quietly shutting down the core functionalities of its Microsoft Store app store on this platform. This closure marks the end of an era for Windows 10 Mobile and the classic generation of Windows Phone systems. The Lumia 950 series was the first to feature Windows 10 back in 2015.

    Inaccessible Homepage and Malfunctioning Pages

    Users have reported that the Windows 10 Mobile App Store's homepage is no longer accessible, and the pages designated for app downloads and updates fail to load correctly. Furthermore, the app details page is experiencing intermittent issues. This decline in functionality follows Microsoft's decision in December 2019 to end support for all Windows 10 Mobile devices, a move that coincided with the closure of the Windows Phone 8.1 store.

    App Store Functionality Termination

    Despite the termination of device support, the Microsoft Store app store remained operational for a time. Microsoft had assured users that while the operating system would not receive further updates, the app store would continue to function, with app and software support left to the discretion of developers and OEMs.

    Sideloading as an Alternative

    An important feature of Windows 10 Mobile is its support for sideloading, allowing users to install applications outside of the Microsoft Store. This capability remains a vital alternative for users, especially in light of the store's malfunction. Interestingly, some users have reported that the store resumes normal function upon installing the latest offline package, suggesting a potential workaround for accessing the store's services.

    Microsoft's Shift in Focus

    Microsoft has shifted its primary focus away from mobile platforms and is now concentrating on AI and the PC market. There have been rumors suggesting that the company is actively working on the development of Windows 12. Recently, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella made a significant statement, acknowledging that discontinuing Windows Phone was a mistake.

    Expanding Mobile Device Market

    Despite the PC market being a lucrative area for Microsoft, the mobile device market is still expanding and evolving, especially with the emergence of new products like foldable devices. Many smartphone companies joined the market relatively late but have achieved success through perseverance. While Microsoft entered the smartphone arena somewhat belatedly, it was during the early days of smartphones, and thus, missed out on this opportunity.

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