Category: Software

  • Play Store removes ‘Nothing Chats’ due to security concerns

    Play Store removes ‘Nothing Chats’ due to security concerns

    Nothing Chats App Removed from Google Play Store

    The Nothing Chats app, an iMessage alternative that was launched earlier this week, has been removed from the Google Play Store. The company behind the app, Nothing, initially attributed the removal to “several bugs” that needed to be fixed. However, a comprehensive technical analysis by security researchers suggests that the app’s removal was likely due to significant security concerns.

    Security Concerns Raised

    Kishan Bagaria, Founder of Texts.com, initially raised these concerns on X/Twitter. Later, the Texts.com team also published a detailed blog outlining the app’s vulnerabilities.

    Their investigation revealed that Sunbird, Nothing’s service provider, had been misleading users about the end-to-end encryption of messages routed through its servers. While messages sent to Sunbird’s servers were encrypted, the JSON Web Tokens (JWT) generated by the service were sent without any encryption to another Sunbird server, making them vulnerable to interception.

    Additionally, the messages were decrypted and stored on Sunbird servers, leaving them susceptible to unauthorized access.

    Demonstrating Vulnerabilities

    Texts.com demonstrated this by intercepting the JWTs exchanged between two devices, gaining access to the Firebase real-time database. Researchers then were able to intercept JWT tokens and access user information and conversations with just 23 lines of code.

    While the privacy issues are directly attributable to Sunbird, Nothing has drawn criticism for choosing to work with the company and for downplaying the severity of the situation by labeling it as “bugs.

    Diminishing Appeal

    With Apple’s recent announcement of RCS support, the Nothing Chats app’s appeal has diminished further. Users should exercise caution when logging into third-party services using their Apple IDs, even if encryption is promised.

    It remains to be seen whether Nothing Chats will be able to address these security concerns and make a successful return to the Play Store.

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  • Microsoft Enhances Windows Photos App with Advanced Background Remover, Replace Feature, and Various Enhancements

    Microsoft Enhances Windows Photos App with Advanced Background Remover, Replace Feature, and Various Enhancements

    Microsoft Updates Windows Photos app with Background Remover and Replace

    Microsoft is continuously enhancing its Windows Photos app to provide users with new and improved capabilities. The latest update, version 2023.11110.8002.0, is currently available to Windows Insiders and brings several enhancements to the app.

    Background Remove and Replace

    One of the main attractions of this update is the addition of the background removal feature. This feature was previously introduced in Microsoft Paint and has now made its way to Windows Photos. With the one-click automated background removal feature, users can easily remove backgrounds from their images. The generated photos can then be saved or copied to the clipboard, and the backdrop can be changed to a solid color. Although the results may not always be perfect, it is a convenient feature to have in a pre-configured Microsoft program like Windows Photos.

    Filmstrip Redesign

    In addition to the background remover feature, the Windows Photos app has also undergone a redesign of its Filmstrip. Now, each photo has a Filmstrip of thumbnails at the bottom, allowing users to quickly browse through other images in the same folder. This makes it easier to compare and inspect multiple images. To enhance the user experience, the Filmstrip is turned off by default when opening a photo. Users can turn it on by pressing the “F” key or clicking on the icon in the bottom left corner. The Filmstrip has been moved below the photo, enlarged thumbnails, and a larger scrollbar has been added at the bottom for easier navigation and selection of photos.

    Timeline Scrollbar

    To make it even easier for users to find specific photos, the latest Windows update introduced the Timeline Scrollbar. This scrollbar is available in all folders and is dynamically based on the time range of your photo collection. It allows users to quickly scroll through their photos based on the timeline, making it more efficient to locate a particular photo.

    Share Individual Photos with OneDrive

    Windows has also added a new feature that allows users to easily share OneDrive-backed photos. By right-clicking on an image and selecting “Share” and then “Using OneDrive,” users can generate a URL that can be copied to the clipboard or sent via email. This simplifies the process of sharing photos with others.

    Other Fixes & Improvements

    Along with these new features, the Windows Photos app update includes various fixes and improvements. The Resize tool now includes a 7:5 aspect ratio option, making it easier to print images. The Print button has also been moved to the top command bar when viewing a single image, based on user feedback. Additionally, the update brings stability and speed improvements, enhancing tab switching, opening photos, and the Slideshow function.

    To enjoy these new capabilities, users must update their Windows Photos app to version 2023.11110.8002.0 or higher. Windows Insiders will receive this update through all available routes.

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  • New “Notes” Feature for Search Results Introduced by Google

    New “Notes” Feature for Search Results Introduced by Google

    Google has recently introduced a new feature called "Notes" in its Search app, giving users the ability to add their own annotations to search results they come across on the internet. This feature allows individuals to personalize and enhance their search experience by adding their own thoughts and insights to the information they find.

    How does it work?

    When users come across a search result that they want to annotate, they can simply tap on the "Notes" button that appears alongside the result. This will open up a text box where they can type in their comments, thoughts, or any additional information they want to include. These notes are then saved and can be accessed later, allowing users to revisit and expand upon their annotations.

    Enhancing the search experience

    The introduction of the "Notes" feature aims to make the search experience more interactive and personalized. It allows users to go beyond the standard search results and add their own context to the information they find. Whether it's adding a reminder or highlighting key points, this feature empowers users to make their search results more meaningful and relevant to their specific needs.

    Other announcements

    In addition to the "Notes" feature, Google has also made several other announcements. One of these is the introduction of a new "Recent" tab in the Search app. This tab displays a list of recently visited websites, making it easier for users to revisit pages they have recently viewed.

    Furthermore, Google has enhanced its image search capabilities by introducing a new feature called "Full Coverage." This feature provides users with a comprehensive overview of a specific topic by aggregating news articles, videos, and other content related to that topic. It aims to provide users with a more holistic understanding of a subject, allowing them to explore different perspectives and sources of information.

    Pricing and specifications

    The "Notes" feature is available for free to all users of the Google Search app. It can be accessed on both Android and iOS devices. To use this feature, users need to have the latest version of the Search app installed on their device.

    The "Recent" tab and "Full Coverage" feature are also available for free to all users of the Google Search app. These features are compatible with both Android and iOS devices and can be accessed by updating the Search app to the latest version.

    Conclusion

    With the introduction of the "Notes" feature, Google is providing users with a new way to engage with search results and make them more personalized. This feature allows individuals to add their own annotations and comments, enhancing the search experience and making it more relevant to their specific needs. Alongside this, Google has also introduced other features such as the "Recent" tab and "Full Coverage," further improving the overall search experience for its users.

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  • Oppo introduces ColorOS 14: Features, roadmap, and compatible device lineup

    Oppo introduces ColorOS 14: Features, roadmap, and compatible device lineup

    Oppo ColorOS 14: New Features and Rollout Schedule

    Oppo has recently announced the launch of its latest operating system, ColorOS 14, which comes with a range of exciting features and improvements. The stable version of ColorOS 14 is set to be released in mid-November, with the Oppo Find N2 Flip being the first device to receive the update. In this article, we will delve into the details of the features and rollout schedule of Oppo ColorOS 14.

    Oppo ColorOS 14 Rollout Schedule

    For those eager to know when they can expect to get their hands on ColorOS 14, here is the detailed roadmap for the global audience:

    [Insert Oppo ColorOS 14 Rollout Schedule]

    Now that we have the rollout schedule out of the way, let's explore the features that ColorOS 14 brings to the table.

    ColorOS 14 Features

    Refined Design and Personalized Experience

    ColorOS 14 introduces a refined and standardized user interface with its new Aqua Dynamic design. This design seamlessly integrates common bubbles, capsules, and panels into the status bar, providing functionality without cluttering the display.

    Additionally, ColorOS 14 employs the Aquamorphic Colouring system, which dynamically adjusts the status bar and on-screen content to match the time of day. This creates a more harmonious visual experience for users.

    To promote eco-consciousness, Oppo has introduced a new Go Green style for the Always On Display. Users can also incorporate Bitmoji stickers that adapt throughout the day based on factors such as location, activities, and weather.

    Performance Boost

    ColorOS 14 comes with an upgraded Trinity Engine, which takes a three-pronged approach to enhance performance and battery life. The three components of the Trinity Engine are:

    1. ROM Vitalization: This feature effectively compresses app and file data, saving up to 20GB of storage on a typical phone.
    2. RAM Vitalization: With improved RAM management, background apps remain in RAM, ensuring smoother multitasking.
    3. CPU Vitalization: By optimizing the balance between chipset performance and power consumption, ColorOS 14 enhances battery life.

    Enhanced Privacy and Smart Features

    ColorOS 14 offers enhanced privacy features and smart functionalities. The Picture Keeper feature adds an extra layer of privacy by requiring additional permission to access specific photos and videos. Meanwhile, the Smart Image Matting feature allows users to crop out multiple people and animals from images and videos.

    With the new Smart Touch feature, users can select text, images, and videos from various apps and store them in the File Dock. This synchronized clipboard is accessible across ColorOS devices, making it easier to manage and share content.

    Snapchat users will also enjoy special benefits with ColorOS 14. They can place a Snapchat shortcut on the lock screen for quick access and utilize a dedicated Snapchat widget on the Shelf. This widget provides instant updates on new messages, statuses, and even the location of nearby friends.

    Overall, Oppo ColorOS 14 brings a range of exciting features and enhancements to enhance the user experience. With its refined design, performance boost, and enhanced privacy features, ColorOS 14 is set to provide a seamless and personalized experience for Oppo users. Stay tuned for the mid-November release to get your hands on this latest operating system.

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  • Pixel phone users can now access the Beta 1 version of Android 14 QPR2, as released by Google

    Pixel phone users can now access the Beta 1 version of Android 14 QPR2, as released by Google

    Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1 Released for Pixel Devices

    Google has recently rolled out the first beta build of Android 14 QPR2, which is a quarterly platform release that will eventually become the March 2024 update. This beta build is now available for most Pixel devices, including the Pixel 5a and even some older models.

    Moving on from Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2.2, Google has decided to skip the stable QPR1 build for December and jump straight to QPR2. This decision indicates that Google is actively working on improving the Android experience for users.

    Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1 Release Details

    • Release date: November 15, 2023
    • Build:
      • Pixel 5a devices: AP11.231020.013
      • Pixel 8 and 8 Pro devices: AP11.231020.014
      • All other devices: AP11.231020.013.A1
    • Emulator support: x86 (64-bit), ARM (v8-A)
    • Security patch level: November 2023
    • Google Play services: 23.36.14

    If you are already enrolled in the Android Beta Program, you can expect to receive the update over-the-air today. This means that if you are currently on Android 14 QPR1 2.2, you will be upgraded to the new QPR2 Beta 1 build.

    While Google has not provided a list of new features for this update, they have shared some fixes that are included in Android 14 QPR2:

    1. Fixed issue with package manager crash: Previously, there was an issue that caused the package manager to crash when installing certain apps. This problem has been resolved in this update. (Issue #303849830)

    2. Fixed issue with feedback submission: Users sometimes encountered a problem where they were unable to submit feedback through the Android Beta Feedback app. This issue has been addressed in the QPR2 update. (Issue #307592531)

    3. Fixed issue with 5G network connectivity: Occasionally, devices would have trouble connecting to a 5G network, even when it was available. This issue has been fixed in the latest beta build. (Issue #306294357)

    Although new features have not been disclosed yet, these fixes indicate that Google is actively working on improving the stability and performance of the Android 14 QPR2 release. Users can look forward to a smoother and more reliable experience with their Pixel devices.

    It is worth noting that as this is a beta build, there may still be some bugs and issues present. However, by participating in the Android Beta Program, users have the opportunity to provide feedback and help Google identify and resolve any remaining issues before the official release.

    Overall, the release of Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1 showcases Google's commitment to continuously enhancing the Android platform and delivering a better user experience for Pixel device owners.

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  • Xiaomi’s In-House IoT Platform Vela Becomes Open Source

    Xiaomi’s In-House IoT Platform Vela Becomes Open Source

    Xiaomi Unveils Update to IoT Software Platform at 2023 Partner Conference

    Xiaomi has made a significant announcement at the 2023 Xiaomi IoT Ecological Partner Conference by unveiling its updated IoT software platform, Xiaomi Vela. This move is aimed at strengthening Xiaomi's position in the Internet of Things (IoT) space. Although the Xiaomi Vela software platform was initially announced in 2020, the company has now made it open source. The announcement was made by Lu Weibing, partner and president of Xiaomi Group, and Zeng Xuezhong, senior vice president and president of the mobile phone department of Xiaomi Group.

    Xiaomi Vela: An Innovative IoT Embedded Software Platform

    During his presentation on "How to Build a Thriving IoT Ecosystem," Zeng Xuezhong revealed that Xiaomi's self-developed system, Vela, is now open source for global software and hardware developers. Xiaomi Vela is built on the open-source real-time operating system NuttX and provides unified software services across various IoT hardware platforms. What sets Xiaomi Vela apart is its ability to offer rich components and user-friendly frameworks to address fragmented IoT application scenarios. Moreover, Xiaomi Vela boasts lower system resource requirements compared to Linux while delivering similar functionalities and performance. This makes it a cost-effective alternative, especially for low-end IoT devices.

    Customization and Compatibility with Xiaomi Vela

    Developers who choose Xiaomi Vela can enjoy the benefits of reduced hardware costs and improved overall product cost performance. Xiaomi Vela ensures compatibility through the POSIX interface, allowing existing open-source libraries and components on the Linux platform to be seamlessly ported to Xiaomi Vela. This flexibility and compatibility make Xiaomi Vela an attractive option for developers looking to leverage their existing resources while exploring new IoT opportunities.

    Shaping the Future of IoT Technologies

    Under the leadership of Fan Dian, Xiaomi Vela aims to promote collaboration among developers across different platforms within the IoT ecosystem. The platform has already extended its reach to smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smart speakers. In the future, Xiaomi Vela will welcome other smart home appliances, camera ISPs, and sensors. As part of the IoT ecosystem, Xiaomi Vela is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of IoT technologies.

    With the open-sourcing of Xiaomi Vela, global software and hardware developers now have the opportunity to leverage and contribute to this innovative IoT embedded software platform. Xiaomi's commitment to openness and collaboration is expected to drive further advancements and accelerate the growth of the IoT industry as a whole.

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  • Some Amazon products are set to replace Android with their in-house Vega OS

    Some Amazon products are set to replace Android with their in-house Vega OS

    Amazon Introduces Vega OS on Echo Show 5, Moving Away from Android

    Amazon has quietly launched its in-house Vega OS on the latest version of the Echo Show 5 smart speaker, signaling a strategic shift in the competitive tech market. While Huawei and Vivo have already unveiled HarmonyOS and BlueOS systems in China, Amazon has chosen to keep Vega OS under wraps, not revealing its specific features and benefits.

    Vega OS: A New Direction for Amazon

    Version 1.1 of Vega OS has made its debut on the third-generation Echo Show 5 model, and it bears a striking resemblance to Amazon’s well-known Fire OS interface, commonly found on its screen-equipped devices. However, one notable difference is that Vega OS does not support Android apps, unlike its Fire OS counterpart.

    The latest Echo Show 5, released in May 2023, offers significant improvements in key areas such as speakers, microphones, and the display compared to its predecessor. But it’s in recent shipments that Amazon has decided to pre-install Vega OS on this smart speaker.

    Moving Away from Android

    Amazon’s transition to Vega OS signifies a significant departure from its reliance on the Android-based Fire OS, which was built on Android 9. This strategic move allows Amazon to achieve better integration of its hardware and software, potentially leading to higher profits. The development of Vega OS, a Linux-based system, demonstrates Amazon’s ambition to gain more control over its devices, ranging from smart displays to Fire TV.

    The switch to Vega OS may also have implications for advertising revenue and software updates, as Amazon will have more control over these aspects. However, some users have expressed concerns about the potential loss of power user features like sideloading. Additionally, the introduction of a new OS means that developers will need to create new versions of their apps specifically for Vega OS. Given Amazon’s devices’ popularity, with over 200 million units sold globally, developers are likely to adapt to this new platform.

    Conclusion

    Amazon’s introduction of Vega OS on the Echo Show 5 marks a strategic move away from Android and towards a more integrated software and hardware ecosystem. While the specific features and benefits of Vega OS remain undisclosed, this transition could potentially lead to higher profits for Amazon and grant the company more control over advertising revenue and software updates. However, concerns about the loss of power user features and the need for developers to adapt to a new platform persist. Only time will tell how successful Amazon’s move to Vega OS will be in the competitive tech market.

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  • Samsung Unveils Timeline for One UI 6.0 Release

    Samsung Unveils Timeline for One UI 6.0 Release

    Samsung One UI 6.0 Update: European Market Release Schedule

    Samsung recently disclosed its most recent One UI 6.0 update for Galaxy devices in October. This version, which operates on Android 14, introduces a variety of new functionalities and improvements. Presently, Samsung’s community manager has revealed the schedule for launching One UI 6.0 in the European market, giving users an idea of when they can anticipate receiving the update.

    Primary Aspects of One UI 6.0

    The One UI 6.0 update brings numerous enhancements to enrich the user experience. Some of the notable features include:

    • Fresh Widgets: The update provides enhanced customization choices, allowing users to tailor their devices according to their preferences.
    • Revamped Quick Settings Panel: One UI 6.0 showcases a more user-friendly and intuitive interface for the Quick Settings Panel, simplifying access to essential settings for users.
    • Modern Emoji Style: The Samsung keyboard undergoes a makeover with a blend of enjoyment and contemporary flair, introducing a new emoji style for users.

    For more comprehensive information about the One UI 6.0 update, please refer to this [article](link to the article).

    Commencement of Rollout: Galaxy S23 Series at the Forefront

    The initiation of the One UI 6.0 update rollout began towards the end of October, with the Galaxy S23 series being the initial recipients of the update. This underscores Samsung’s dedication to supplying cutting-edge features to its premier devices.

    Timeline for European Rollout: Insights from Samsung Community Manager

    The timeline for releasing One UI 6.0 in the European market, as communicated by Samsung’s community manager, is as follows:

    • October: Galaxy S23 series
    • November 13: Galaxy Z Flip 5, Galaxy Z Fold 5, Galaxy A54, Galaxy A34
    • November 15: Galaxy S22 series (S22, S22 Plus, S22 Ultra)
    • November 20: Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy A13 5G, Galaxy A33 5G, Galaxy A53 5G, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 4
    • November 24: Galaxy S21 series (including S21 FE)
    • November 27: Galaxy A52, A52s 5G, A13, A23 5G, Z Flip 3, Z Fold 3
    • November 30: Ongoing rollout, encompassing Galaxy A72

    December Update Schedule

    The rollout of the One UI 6.0 update continues into December, with the following devices slated to receive the update on specified dates:

    • December 1: Galaxy A24 5G
    • December 4: Galaxy A04s
    • December 8: Galaxy XCover 5

    Devices with Indeterminate Timelines

    The rollout schedule for the following devices is yet to be determined:

    • Galaxy A14 5G, A52 5G, Tab A7 Lite, A14, A05s

    Official Confirmation Awaited

    Although the European market is poised to be the first to receive the One UI 6.0 update, there are expectations that the rollout will extend to the US and India shortly thereafter. Nevertheless, Samsung has not yet provided an official timeline for these regions.

    Stay tuned for additional updates regarding the rollout of the One UI 6.0 update for Samsung Galaxy devices across diverse markets.

    Note: The original text does not supply pricing and specifications details for the One UI 6.0 update.

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  • Chinese Language Support Coming to Samsung Galaxy S24 Series with Gauss AI

    Chinese Language Support Coming to Samsung Galaxy S24 Series with Gauss AI

    Samsung Introduces Powerful AI Model "Samsung Gauss" at Developer Conference

    Samsung has unveiled its latest AI model, "Samsung Gauss," at the ongoing Samsung Developer Conference (SDC) Korea 2023. This powerful generative AI model, named after mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss, showcases Samsung's commitment to advancing technology for improved user experiences and productivity.

    Samsung Gauss AI Suite: Enhancing User Experiences

    The Samsung Gauss AI suite comprises three specialized components designed to cater to various domains. These components include:

    1. Samsung Gauss Language: This component focuses on linguistic tasks such as email composition and translation.
    2. Samsung Gauss Code: It provides coding assistance for software development.
    3. Samsung Gauss Image: This component enables image generation and editing.

    By offering generative AI capabilities in different areas, Samsung aims to enhance user-device interaction, providing a more intuitive and natural experience. The goal is to offer users convenience, personalization, and the ability to engage in creative activities using Samsung devices.

    On-Device AI for Data Security

    One of the key features of Samsung Gauss is its on-device operation. By processing and storing consumer data locally, Samsung addresses common concerns about data security in AI applications. This approach ensures that user data remains secure and protected.

    Multilingual Support and Future Plans

    According to tipster @Tech_Reve, Samsung's Gauss language model supports multiple languages, including Korean, English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese. This indicates that the AI model will be available for Chinese users in the future, expanding its accessibility and usability.

    In addition to the Gauss AI model, Samsung has also announced its plans to introduce Galaxy AI in the upcoming Galaxy flagship phones, specifically the Galaxy S24 series. This feature will enable real-time audio and text translations during phone calls. Renowned tipster Ice Universe has confirmed that Galaxy AI will indeed be usable on domestic Galaxy S24 series phones.

    With these advancements, Samsung continues to push the boundaries of AI technology, offering innovative solutions to enhance user experiences and productivity. The introduction of Samsung Gauss and the upcoming Galaxy AI feature demonstrate the company's commitment to integrating AI capabilities into its devices for a seamless and enhanced user experience.

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  • 600 Million Global Monthly Active Users Surpass Oppo’s ColorOS

    600 Million Global Monthly Active Users Surpass Oppo’s ColorOS

    Oppo's ColorOS operating system has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 600 million monthly active users worldwide. This achievement comes a decade after the introduction of ColorOS in 2013.

    ColorOS 14, the latest version of the operating system, has generated considerable interest, with over 230,000 signups for the beta program. Oppo has announced that the official release of ColorOS 14 is scheduled for November 16, 2023, at the Oppo Developer Conference.

    The initial batch of devices that will receive the stable update of ColorOS 14 after its official release includes Oppo Find N2, Oppo Find N2 Flip, Oppo Find X6 Pro, Oppo Find X6, OnePlus 11, and Oppo Reno9 Pro 5G.

    ColorOS has played a crucial role in Oppo's success in the premium smartphone market. In 2022, Oppo experienced a staggering year-on-year growth of 453% in its folding screen market share. This growth was largely driven by the popularity of devices such as Oppo Find N, Oppo Find N2, and Oppo Find N2 Flip, enabling Oppo to secure a 31.4% market share in the folding market during the first three quarters of this year.

    In addition to the operating system's success, Oppo is also introducing its AndesGPT AI model with the release of ColorOS 14. AndesGPT is an advanced language model with 100 billion parameters, designed to enhance dialogue interactions. Further details regarding ColorOS 14 and its AI capabilities will be unveiled at an upcoming event.

    Overall, Oppo's ColorOS operating system has achieved remarkable success, reaching a significant user base and driving growth in the premium smartphone market. The anticipation for ColorOS 14 continues to build, and users can look forward to a range of new features and enhancements with its official release.

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