Category: Software

  • Xiaomi Unveils December 2023 Rollout of HyperOS Developer Version for Xiaomi 12S and Redmi K50

    Xiaomi Unveils December 2023 Rollout of HyperOS Developer Version for Xiaomi 12S and Redmi K50

    Xiaomi Announces Second Batch of Devices to Receive HyperOS Developer Version

    Xiaomi, the popular smartphone manufacturer, launched its in-house operating system, HyperOS, in late October. With the aim of providing an enhanced user experience, the company has been steadily rolling out updates to its existing devices. After successfully updating the Xiaomi 13 series and Redmi K60 series, Xiaomi has now revealed the second batch of devices that will receive the HyperOS developer version in China next month, December 2023.

    List of Devices Receiving HyperOS CN ROM Developer Version

    The following eleven devices are set to receive the HyperOS CN ROM Developer Version:

    • Xiaomi 12S Ultra
    • Xiaomi 12S Pro
    • Xiaomi 12S
    • Xiaomi 12 Pro
    • Xiaomi 12
    • Xiaomi 12 Pro Dimensity Edition
    • Redmi K50 Ultra
    • Redmi K50 Gaming Edition
    • Redmi K50 Pro
    • Redmi K50X
    • Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro 12.4

    Initially, there was some discussion among members of the Xiaomi China community forum regarding the absence of the Xiaomi 12S series from the list. However, Xiaomi spokesperson Zhang GuoQuan promptly addressed the issue on Chinese social media platform Weibo. He clarified that there had been a miscommunication in the announcement post and assured users that the Xiaomi 12S series is indeed a top priority for receiving the HyperOS upgrade. This decision is due to the fact that the Xiaomi 12S devices are the company's first smartphones with Leica branding.

    Updated Announcement to Include Xiaomi 12S Series

    Following the clarification by Zhang GuoQuan, the Xiaomi China community announcement post has been updated to include the Xiaomi 12S devices. As of the publishing of this news on Sunday, November 26, users can now rest assured that the Xiaomi 12S series will be among the devices receiving the HyperOS developer version next month.

    Xiaomi continues to prioritize the user experience by introducing its proprietary operating system, HyperOS. By extending the compatibility of this system to a wider range of devices, Xiaomi aims to offer its customers a seamless and optimized mobile experience. With the second batch of devices set to receive the HyperOS developer version, Xiaomi users can look forward to enhanced performance and features in the near future.

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  • November security patch and multiple bug fixes included in Lava Yuva 2 update

    November security patch and multiple bug fixes included in Lava Yuva 2 update

    Lava Yuva 2 Receives Latest Security Update

    Indian smartphone manufacturer Lava recently launched its most affordable smartphone, the Lava Yuva 2. Packed with a 5,000mAh battery and powered by a T606 processor, the device has garnered attention in the market. In a recent post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Lava confirmed that the Yuva 2 will receive the latest security update.

    The update, according to Lava’s post, includes the November 2023 patch along with various bug fixes. However, the brand has not provided specific details about the bugs that have been addressed. The primary goal of this patch is to improve the overall stability of the device and address any security vulnerabilities identified in the previous update. The November security patch specifically targets vulnerabilities affecting the Framework, Media Framework, System, as well as components like the kernel and processor-based components.

    For Yuva 2 owners looking to update their devices, the process is simple. Just navigate to Settings > System > Advance > System Update to install the latest version.

    Lava Yuva 2 Specifications

    For those interested in the specifications of the Lava Yuva 2, here are the details. The device features a 6.5-inch display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. Powering the device is the Unisoc T606 processor paired with 3GB of RAM. It offers 64GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage, which can be expanded up to 512GB using a microSD card. The phone is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 10W charging.

    In terms of camera capabilities, the Lava Yuva 2 boasts a 13MP primary rear camera accompanied by a secondary VGA camera and an LED flash. For selfies, the phone features a 5MP front camera. The device runs on an Android 12-based operating system.

    Connectivity options for the Lava Yuva 2 include Dual SIM support, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

    With the latest security update, Lava is ensuring that the Yuva 2 remains up-to-date and protected against potential threats. Users can now enjoy enhanced stability and improved security on their devices.

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  • Huawei and Ant Group’s mPaaS Collaborate to Create HarmonyOS Applications

    Huawei and Ant Group’s mPaaS Collaborate to Create HarmonyOS Applications

    Ant Group’s mPaaS Partners with Huawei for Native Applications on HarmonyOS

    Ant Group’s mobile development platform, mPaaS, has formed a strategic partnership with Huawei to develop native applications for the HarmonyOS operating system. This collaboration aims to create superior products and enhance the capabilities of both mPaaS and HarmonyOS.

    mPaaS: A Dominant Platform in Various Industries

    mPaaS is a widely used platform that caters to hundreds of medium and large enterprises, as well as thousands of small and medium-sized businesses across industries such as finance, government affairs, and transportation. Its influence is particularly significant in the financial sector.

    Commitment to Innovation and Breakthroughs

    Yu Bin, Vice President of Ant Group, expressed the company’s commitment to innovation and breakthroughs in app development. He believes that the partnership with Huawei will pave the way for the creation of superior products that meet the evolving needs of users.

    Huawei’s Vision for Deeper Cooperation

    Zhu Yonggang, President of Huawei Terminal Cloud Services, echoed this sentiment and emphasized the potential for deeper cooperation between mPaaS and HarmonyOS in the future. He envisions enhanced capabilities for mPaaS and a collaboratively constructed ecosystem.

    Expanding the HarmonyOS Ecosystem

    This partnership aligns with Huawei’s broader efforts to expand the HarmonyOS ecosystem. Recently, the company joined forces with Alibaba to develop a native version of the DingTalk app for HarmonyOS. Additionally, Huawei announced a collaboration with Meituan to develop applications for the operating system. These collaborations highlight the increasing momentum behind HarmonyOS adoption.

    Phasing Out Android App Support

    Huawei has also revealed its plans to gradually phase out Android app support from HarmonyOS in China with the upcoming release of HarmonyOS Next. This strategic move demonstrates Huawei’s confidence in HarmonyOS’s capabilities and its dedication to building a self-sufficient operating system ecosystem.

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  • Yup: All-in-One Social Media App Aiming to Solve Everything

    Yup: All-in-One Social Media App Aiming to Solve Everything

    Yup: The Innovative Social Networking Application

    Yup, an innovative application, is transforming how we engage with social networking platforms. Through its versatile cross-platform functionality, Yup empowers users to effortlessly share content across a range of platforms, including X, Bluesky, Lens, and Threads.

    Recognizable Elements and Newsfeeds

    Yup integrates familiar functionalities that users are accustomed to from various social networking sites. Users can engage by liking, commenting, and reposting content. Moreover, Yup introduces a personalized "For You" feed that tailors content based on individual interests, along with a "Following" feed that showcases posts from followed users.

    Embracing Threads Support

    A standout feature of Yup is its integration with Threads, a decentralized social media platform. While Threads currently lacks a public API for developers, Yup ingeniously utilizes the internal API of Threads’ web client. As Threads eventually releases its official API, Yup plans to transition to utilizing that interface.

    Revolutionizing Cross-Platform Sharing

    The creators of Yup anticipate that their application will streamline the process of cross-posting content for both regular users and content creators. Yup facilitates seamless content sharing on conventional platforms such as X, as well as on decentralized networks like Mastodon. While tools like Fedica offer some cross-platform posting capabilities, Yup goes the extra mile by also accommodating Threads.

    Centralized Notifications and Early Development Stages

    Yup simplifies the management of multiple applications by consolidating notifications from linked platforms into a unified feed. Despite being in its early developmental phase, the app exhibits the potential to become an invaluable resource for social media users seeking relief from the complexities of managing multiple platforms.

    Availability and Waitlist Information

    Excitingly, Yup is now accessible on both iOS and Android devices. However, prospective users must navigate through a waiting list before gaining complete access to the application.

    Embrace the chance to refine your social media engagement. Join the vibrant Yup community today and ease your cross-posting endeavors!

    Pricing Details and Technical Specifications:

    • Currently, Yup is obtainable at no cost on the App Store and Google Play Store.
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  • Alibaba and Huawei Collaborate to Enhance DingTalk on HarmonyOS, Taking on the Dominance of Android

    Alibaba and Huawei Collaborate to Enhance DingTalk on HarmonyOS, Taking on the Dominance of Android

    Alibaba Group Holding is making progress in its efforts to reduce its reliance on Google’s Android by developing a native version of its workplace app, DingTalk, for Huawei Technologies’ HarmonyOS. This move comes as Huawei continues to face challenges due to US sanctions and aims to establish its own ecosystem.

    HarmonyOS as an Alternative to Android

    Huawei introduced HarmonyOS in 2019 as a response to being placed on the US government’s Entity List, which restricted its access to American software and technologies. The unveiling of HarmonyOS marked Huawei’s determination to create a self-sufficient ecosystem in the face of these difficulties.

    Collaboration Between Alibaba and Huawei

    The collaboration between Alibaba and Huawei goes beyond app development. The two companies have plans to work together in areas such as industrial innovation, technology application, and business growth. This partnership aligns with Alibaba’s broader strategy of driving future growth through digitalization and intelligent technology, with DingTalk playing a crucial role in this endeavor.

    Huawei’s Commitment to HarmonyOS

    Huawei’s decision to phase out Android support in its upcoming HarmonyOS Next iteration demonstrates its commitment to this new path. This move coincides with the successful launch of Huawei’s Mate 60 Pro, the company’s first 5G-enabled smartphone since 2020, which has experienced a significant increase in sales.

    DingTalk’s Shift to HarmonyOS

    The adaptation of DingTalk to HarmonyOS is not only a technological shift but also a strategic business move. DingTalk is one of Alibaba’s key growth drivers, and its transition to HarmonyOS is seen as a significant step towards “strategic-level innovation.” This move is part of Alibaba’s larger plan to reposition its business units, including DingTalk, as independent entities with their market strategies.

    In conclusion, Alibaba’s development of a native version of DingTalk for Huawei’s HarmonyOS is a significant milestone in Huawei’s efforts to reduce its reliance on Google’s Android. This collaboration between the two companies not only involves app development but also encompasses other areas of innovation and growth. Huawei’s decision to phase out Android support further emphasizes its commitment to HarmonyOS, while DingTalk’s shift to HarmonyOS aligns with Alibaba’s strategy to position its business units as independent entities.

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  • One UI 6 update now available in Singapore for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

    One UI 6 update now available in Singapore for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

    Samsung rolls out One UI 6 Update for Galaxy Z Fold 5

    Samsung has started rolling out the Android 14 OS based One UI 6 custom skin update for the Galaxy Z Fold 5. This latest software upgrade is currently being released in Singapore.

    One UI 6 Update Release

    The South Korean tech giant had previously released the One UI 6 update for its flagship Galaxy S23 series in South Korea last month. Now, Samsung has expanded the roll out to include other devices as well. The One UI 6 stable build is now available on the Galaxy Z Fold 5. A user on Samsung's community page confirmed that his Galaxy Z Fold 5 has already received the update in Singapore.

    New Features and Improvements

    According to the official description, the One UI 6 update brings several changes to the user interface. This includes a reworked quick settings panel for easier access, an enhanced Home screen, and new emoji designs. Samsung also promises that the update will bring other improvements to enhance the overall Galaxy experience. It is worth mentioning that the update has also been released for the Verizon activated Galaxy Z Fold 5 in the United States.

    How to Check for the Update

    To check if you have received the One UI 6 update, follow these steps:

    1. Go to "Settings" on your device.
    2. Look for the "Software Update" menu.
    3. Check if the update is available for your device.
    4. If available, tap on "Download and Install" to get the latest update.

    Galaxy Z Flip 5 Update

    At this time, it is unknown if the Galaxy Z Flip 5 has also received the One UI 6 update in the region. Stay tuned for more updates regarding this matter.

    That's all the information available regarding the One UI 6 update for the Galaxy Z Fold 5. If you are in Singapore, make sure to check for the update on your device to enjoy the new features and improvements.

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  • Easily Download Instagram Reels with the Latest Update

    Easily Download Instagram Reels with the Latest Update

    Instagram Introduces Reels Download Feature

    Social media addiction is on the rise, with many individuals spending a significant portion of their day watching videos on platforms like Reels, TikTok, and Shorts. However, this habit can lead to anxiety when internet access is unavailable or when data limits are reached. Luckily, Instagram has come up with a solution: the Instagram Reels download feature.

    According to a post by Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri, the platform will now offer a download option similar to YouTube Premium. This means that users can access and watch videos through the app even without an internet connection.

    How does the Reels Download Feature Work?

    The Instagram Reels download feature functions similarly to the download feature found in YouTube Premium. Instead of taking up space in your gallery, the videos are saved in a dedicated area within the app. This allows you to access the downloaded videos offline or without using your data.

    This feature is particularly beneficial for those who like to collect their favorite Reels in the saved section. However, it is important to note that despite Mosseri's statement, this feature has not been rolled out globally yet. It may take a few days for the process to be completed, so screenshots of the feature are not available at this time.

    Copyright Protection and Content Theft

    The introduction of the Instagram Reels download feature has sparked copyright debates. To address this issue, Instagram has implemented measures such as muting the sound during the download of videos with copyrighted music. This helps protect the rights of musicians and artists.

    However, another concern is the theft of videos created by individuals. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok tackle this problem by adding a watermark logo during the download process. This ensures that viewers on other platforms can see the original video owner's name. However, it is important to note that some individuals may still make an effort to download the video from alternative sources.

    Instagram, like YouTube and TikTok, must prioritize the protection of content creators by not directly providing convenience to content thieves.

    Conclusion

    The introduction of the Instagram Reels download feature is a welcome addition for users who want to access videos offline or without using their data. While the feature is not yet available globally, it is expected to be rolled out to users worldwide in the coming days. With measures in place to protect copyright and address content theft, Instagram aims to strike a balance between providing convenience and safeguarding the rights of content creators.

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  • Huawei Reaffirms its Commitment to Global Users: “Continued Android App Support”

    Huawei Reaffirms its Commitment to Global Users: “Continued Android App Support”

    Huawei’s HarmonyOS Shift Doesn’t Affect Global Android Users

    Huawei, despite facing challenges, has managed to maintain its presence in the smartphone market and is even experiencing a revival with recent strategic moves. The Mate 60 series, for example, has outperformed the iPhone 15 in China, and the company has also announced its intention to transition from Android to its own HarmonyOS Next operating system. However, this shift has caused some confusion among users, especially those outside of China.

    No Impact on Global Users

    The transition to HarmonyOS Next signifies a significant change in Huawei’s operating system strategy. Unlike its predecessor, HarmonyOS Next is not built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) but is developed from scratch. This change means that users of HarmonyOS Next will no longer be able to install Android applications in APK format, and if somehow installed, these apps will not function properly.

    Clarification for Users Outside of China

    Many Huawei users outside of China were concerned that they would also be affected by this change. However, it has been clarified that only Huawei users in China will be using the new operating system. Users outside of China will still be able to use Android-based applications through the EMUI operating system, so there is no need to worry about this issue affecting their devices.

    Official Statement from Huawei

    Huawei has released an official statement to address the concerns of its global users. The statement confirms that HarmonyOS is designed to meet the needs of the Internet of Everything (IoE) era and provides a shared language for a smart and connected experience across different devices. HarmonyOS 4 has already been installed on over 100 million devices in a short period of around three months. However, there are currently no plans to distribute HarmonyOS for devices outside of China. As a result, Huawei users outside of China can continue using their usual Android-based applications with the EMUI operating system.

    In conclusion, Huawei’s shift to HarmonyOS Next will not have any impact on global Android users. The new operating system is exclusive to Huawei users in China, while users outside of China can still enjoy their Android-based applications through the EMUI operating system. Huawei has assured its global users that there is no need to worry about this transition affecting their devices.

    Source: 1, 2

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  • Spotify Given Permission by Google to Avoid Play Store Fees

    Spotify Given Permission by Google to Avoid Play Store Fees

    Spotify’s Deal with Google to Avoid Play Store Fees

    During Google’s legal battle with Epic Games, an interesting agreement between Google and Spotify was revealed. Don Harrison, Google’s executive responsible for international partnerships, testified that Spotify had struck a generous deal with Google. Under this agreement, Spotify did not have to pay any commission to Google for users who paid their subscription fees using Spotify’s own payment method. For users who made purchases using Google’s payment method, the commission paid was only 4%.

    Google’s Privileges for Spotify

    According to Harrison, Spotify’s popularity was deemed “unprecedented” and Google believed that it was crucial for Spotify to work seamlessly within the Android ecosystem. As a result, Google granted Spotify certain privileges to ensure its smooth operation. This decision was made to prevent users from considering a switch away from Android.

    Spotify’s Criticism of Commission Rates

    Spotify has been a vocal critic of app store commission rates, particularly in the case involving Apple and Epic Games. The company has accused Apple of monopolizing the market. In fact, a few months ago, Spotify made a bold move to stop accepting payments through the App Store in an effort to avoid paying commissions to Apple.

    Overall, while the issue of app store commissions remains a topic of debate, it appears that Google has shown favoritism towards Spotify by offering a more lenient commission structure. This highlights the ongoing competition and power dynamics between app developers and the major app stores.

    Source: 1, 2

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