Category: Software

  • Garmin Launches Free To-Do List Smartwatch App: ComingUp

    Garmin Launches Free To-Do List Smartwatch App: ComingUp

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s ComingUp app is free and available on the Connect IQ store for smartwatch users.
    2. The app syncs with third-party task management apps like Google Tasks, Todoist, and Microsoft To Do.
    3. Users can manage tasks directly from their watch, including adding and completing tasks.
    4. Some users reported syncing issues and malfunctions on certain smartwatch models.
    5. The app requires a connection to the Garmin Connect fitness profile and may affect battery performance.

    Garmin has introduced a new app called ComingUp, which can be downloaded for free from the Connect IQ store. This app is designed to assist users of the brand’s smartwatches in managing their tasks and boosting their productivity. The company claims that the “utilitarian interface” will aid users in staying focused.

    Features and Compatibility

    The ComingUp app enables connections to third-party applications such as Google Tasks, Todoist, and Microsoft To Do lists, allowing for real-time syncing. Users can modify their to-do lists, including adding new tasks through the QWERTY keyboard or marking tasks as completed directly from their watch. Additionally, users have the option to receive notifications on their watch when a task is due. However, it’s important to note that users must allow the app to run in the background when inactive, which may influence the battery performance of Garmin’s smartwatches. Furthermore, it requires a connection to your Garmin Connect fitness profile.

    User Feedback

    Up to now, user feedback has been varied. Some users find the app to be a valuable tool, while others have mentioned that only default projects, lists, or inboxes were being synced. A few users also pointed out that the app appeared to malfunction on certain compatible models, such as the Venu 3 and Forerunner 955 Solar. The new Garmin ComingUp app is reported to be compatible with a broad selection of the brand’s smartwatches, including the latest tactix 8 and Descent G2, as well as the Fenix 8, Forerunner 255, and vivoactive 5 (curr. $245.89 at Amazon); a complete list of compatible devices is available at the Connect IQ store.

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  • One UI 7 Delayed: One UI 8 Release May Be Sooner Than Expected

    One UI 7 Delayed: One UI 8 Release May Be Sooner Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s rollout of One UI 7 has been slow, causing frustration among users.
    2. Concerns exist about the timely launch of One UI 8 due to delays with One UI 7.
    3. Early reports suggest One UI 8 may debut sooner than expected, potentially in the third quarter of 2025.
    4. Android 16 is in development, with Google releasing public betas and planning a stable version by the end of Q2 2025.
    5. Users with older Galaxy models may have to wait until at least April for the One UI 7 stable update.

    From being a leader among Android brands in rolling out the newest OS updates to now lagging behind, Samsung has left many users disheartened with One UI 7. The rollout of this stable version has been frustratingly slow, with no clear timeline provided and not a single Galaxy device having received the update yet—much to the annoyance of fans. However, the outlook for One UI 8 may not be as grim.

    Concerns Over One UI 8’s Timeliness

    The significant delays in the One UI 7.0 rollout have sparked skepticism regarding Samsung’s ability to launch One UI 8.0 on schedule. Thankfully, early reports suggest a more promising scenario, according to reliable Samsung insider Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) on Twitter/X.

    Ice Universe indicates that One UI 8 will likely debut sooner than anticipated. Although specific release details were not disclosed, this hints that the rollout might not be as delayed as One UI 7, which faced a delay of about a quarter. This assumption appears valid, especially with Google’s fast-paced release schedule for Android 16.

    Android 16 Development Progress

    Android 16 is already in development. Google has rolled out two public betas that are accessible for eligible Pixel device users. The stable version is expected to launch by the end of the second quarter. Samsung is likely to unveil One UI 8 sometime in the third quarter of 2025.

    Also check out: New features coming in Samsung’s One UI 7

    If you own a Galaxy S25 device, you’re probably already enjoying the benefits of One UI 7. However, those with older Galaxy models may have to wait until at least April for the stable update. For mid-range and budget Galaxy devices, the waiting period could be even longer. If you find yourself in the One UI 7 waiting line, take a look at the list of eligible devices to make sure yours is prepped for the forthcoming upgrade.

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    One UI 7 Delayed: One UI 8 Release May Be Sooner Than Expected
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  • Google Play Store Introduces Quality Warnings for App Selection

    Google Play Store Introduces Quality Warnings for App Selection

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is introducing app quality warnings on the Play Store to help users choose better apps.
    2. There are three types of warnings: high uninstall rates, low user engagement, and smaller user base.
    3. These warnings aim to provide more insight into app functionality and popularity.
    4. An app with a warning may still be suitable for specific needs; the warnings are not negative labels.
    5. The feature is part of version 44.7.24 of the Google Play Store and may expand with more warning types in the future.

    Finding the right application on the Google Play Store can feel like a roll of the dice. While user ratings and the number of downloads can provide some insight, they do not always give the full story. An app that has excellent reviews might actually be outdated and not work well with your device. On the other hand, an app that is not very popular may turn out to be a hidden treasure. To help users navigate this, Google is introducing a new feature that provides warnings about app quality.

    Google Introduces App Quality Warnings

    At this moment, there seems to be three different types of warnings. One type lets users know about apps that are often uninstalled more than others on the Play Store. This could mean that people find the app unsatisfactory or that there are better options available. Another type of warning shows that users interact with the app less than with similar apps. The last warning tells users that the app has a smaller user base compared to other apps in its category.

    It’s crucial to realize that these warnings are not a mark of shame. An app that gets a “low engagement” warning might still be a suitable app for what you need it for.

    A Positive Change for Users

    These new quality warnings are a great addition to the Play Store. They provide a more thorough view of an app’s functionality and popularity, enabling users to make more informed choices. This feature has been seen in version 44.7.24 of the Google Play Store, and it is anticipated that it will be accessible to all users shortly. While the first set of warnings is beneficial, Google could add more types of warnings in the future to further improve the app discovery experience.

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    Google Play Store Introduces Quality Warnings for App Selection
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  • One UI 7.1 Cancellation Linked to Delays in One UI 7 Update

    One UI 7.1 Cancellation Linked to Delays in One UI 7 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has delayed the stable rollout of One UI 7.0, causing frustration among users.
    2. The cancellation of One UI 7.1 is being considered due to the prolonged delay of One UI 7.0.
    3. The stable One UI 7.0 update may launch alongside the Galaxy S25 Edge in April, extending the wait for many users.
    4. Skipping One UI 7.1 could allow Samsung to focus on the development of One UI 8.0, which will be based on Android 16.
    5. Recent findings indicate that Samsung is preparing for One UI 8, suggesting progress on future updates.

    Samsung’s delay in releasing the One UI 7.0 update has turned into a source of frustration for many users. The company kicked off the One UI 7.0 beta program in early December for the Galaxy S24 series. However, more than two months have passed, and Samsung is still occupied with bug fixes. As it stands, no Galaxy device has received the stable One UI 7.0 update yet. This lengthy hold-up has allegedly resulted in the cancellation of the One UI 7.1 version.

    Reports on One UI 7.1 Cancellation

    According to Sammobile, which mentions unnamed sources, the postponement of the stable One UI 7.0 release has led Samsung to think about skipping One UI 7.1 altogether. Earlier rumors hinted that One UI 7.1 would launch alongside the upcoming foldable devices, specifically the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7. Now, it appears that these foldable devices will come with One UI 7.0.1 straight out of the box, indicating minor changes from the previous version.

    Future Update Timeline

    Samsung might begin the rollout of the stable One UI 7.0 update for eligible Galaxy devices when the Galaxy S25 Edge is released. Recent leaks suggest that this sleek device will be available around April. If these leaks hold true, users of the Galaxy S24 and others will have to endure at least a two-month wait for the stable One UI 7.0 update. The delay will be even more pronounced for users of the Galaxy A-series, M-series, and F-series devices.

    Potential Benefits of Skipping One UI 7.1

    Even if Samsung successfully launches the stable One UI 7.0 in April, the full deployment could extend into the first half of 2025. By that time, Google will have already rolled out Android 16. Pursuing a One UI 7.1 version could lead to a significant delay in the release of One UI 8.0, which would be built on Android 16.

    Many Samsung users are already unhappy about the slow rollout of One UI 7.0, and Samsung probably wants to avoid further disappointment that could hurt its reputation. Thus, it may be wiser to bypass One UI 7.1 and concentrate directly on One UI 8.

    Last month, some traces of One UI 8 appeared within Samsung apps, hinting that the company is preparing its applications for a future version of One UI. This could indicate that Samsung is indeed making progress on One UI 8.

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  • One UI 7.1 Update Canceled; One UI 7.0 Rollout Delayed Again

    One UI 7.1 Update Canceled; One UI 7.0 Rollout Delayed Again

    Key Takeaways

    1. The stable version of One UI 7, based on Android 15, is nearing release after facing multiple development delays.
    2. Samsung may skip the One UI 7.1 version due to setbacks in One UI 7.0’s development.
    3. Upcoming foldable devices might run a less altered One UI 7.0.1 firmware instead of One UI 7.1.
    4. The rollout of One UI 7 for devices like the Galaxy S24 may be postponed until after the Galaxy S25 Edge release in April.
    5. Users with older Galaxy S models and Galaxy A devices should expect longer wait times for the update.

    The long-awaited stable version of One UI 7 is finally on the horizon. This Android 15-based update for Galaxy devices has faced a rocky road with numerous delays throughout its development. There were indications from various sources that Samsung was also developing One UI 7.1, which was anticipated to include some exciting new features. Nevertheless, a new report has surfaced indicating that Samsung may bypass One UI 7.1 entirely.

    Development Delays

    According to SamMobile, which cites unnamed sources, the setbacks in the development of One UI 7.0 have led Samsung to think about skipping the One UI 7.1 version. Earlier leaks hinted that the company intended to introduce One UI 7.1 alongside its upcoming foldable devices. However, the latest findings suggest that devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and Galaxy Z Flip FE are likely to run a One UI 7.0.1 firmware that will feature fewer alterations than originally anticipated.

    A Long Wait Ahead

    If you’re eager to experience One UI 7 on your Galaxy S24, you may need to exercise some patience. SamMobile has also reported that it seems probable that the rollout of the stable Android 15-based OTA update for compatible devices has been postponed until the release of the Galaxy S25 Edge. Leaks indicate that the thinnest model in the Galaxy S25 lineup is expected to be available in April.

    Implications for Users

    Should this report hold any truth, be prepared to wait approximately two months before receiving One UI 7. Naturally, the delay will be even longer for those who own older Galaxy S models and users of Galaxy A devices.

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  • Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

    Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 is expected to launch between April and June 2025, with a second public beta now available.
    2. New camera features include saving Ultra-HDR photos in the HEIC format and adjustable exposure settings in automatic mode.
    3. Enhanced white balance options allow users to modify tint and color temperature for better photo quality.
    4. Quick access to Google Wallet can be achieved by double-pressing the power button.
    5. The beta version is compatible with recent Google devices, including Pixel 6 and later models, and users should back up their data before installation.

    Since Google has sharpened its software release timeline, Android 16 is projected to launch in the second quarter of 2025, specifically between April and June. In line with this, Google has rolled out the second public beta version that features several new improvements. To be more precise, this beta mainly hones in on the camera application.

    New Camera Features

    The update now allows users to save Ultra-HDR photos in the HEIC format, which is more efficient and takes up less space. Lastly, photographers can now tweak exposure settings while in automatic mode. Instead of being limited to either full auto or manual, users can modify specific settings like sensor sensitivity or shutter speed in automatic exposure mode if they choose, while all other settings remain automatically adjusted.

    Enhanced White Balance Options

    Google has also added more ways to modify the white balance. Besides adjusting the color temperature, the second beta of Android 16 introduces a tint option that can help counter challenging or vibrant lighting conditions, or even give photos a unique flair. This feature is particularly vital when capturing JPEGs instead of RAW images, since white balance adjustments can’t be made after the photo is taken.

    Quick Access to Google Wallet

    Another interesting addition is the ability to access Google Wallet by double-pressing the power button, which serves as an alternative shortcut to the camera app. The latest public beta version of Android 16 works with a variety of recent Google devices, including the Pixel 6 and later models, as well as the new Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel Tablet. Those interested in testing the beta can sign up on Google’s official site. As always, it’s highly advisable to perform a complete backup before installing any beta version of an operating system.

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    Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

     

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  • AstoCAD: New Paid Membership for Easy Open-Source AutoCAD Alternative

    AstoCAD: New Paid Membership for Easy Open-Source AutoCAD Alternative

    Key Takeaways

    1. AstoCAD is a new soft fork of FreeCAD focused on improving user interface design to make it more user-friendly and appealing.
    2. The development of AstoCAD aims to support ongoing enhancements in FreeCAD while ensuring users access the latest features.
    3. AstoCAD’s UI changes are inspired by the popular CAD software Autodesk Fusion360, making it more relatable for users.
    4. AstoCAD operates on a paid membership model, offering Standard and Premium options, with different pricing and benefits for each.
    5. New UI features developed in AstoCAD will eventually be integrated into FreeCAD, providing long-term improvements for all users.

    It’s known that a lot of open-source applications and software struggle with their user interface design. FreeCAD, which has recently made significant progress in its features and capabilities, has long been part of this narrative. However, a new fork of FreeCAD aims to offer a refreshed, user-friendly UI redesign.

    The Future of FreeCAD

    Our goal is to enhance FreeCAD to transform it into the ultimate CAD software. To achieve this, we need a sustainable income. That’s where AstoCAD comes into the picture.

    In the introductory video, Pierre-Louis Boyer, the main developer of AstoCAD and also responsible for many recent UI updates in FreeCAD, presents the new program as a means to support the ongoing development and UI enhancements in FreeCAD. AstoCAD is a soft fork, meaning it will always utilize the most recent FreeCAD build, ensuring that users get the latest technical features alongside the improved UI.

    User Interface Enhancements

    The new UI modifications being introduced in AstoCAD make the 3D design software resemble Autodesk Fusion360, which is a well-known CAD suite favored by makers and hobbyists alike.

    AstoCAD operates on a paid membership basis, offering both premium and standard membership options, yet the source code for AstoCAD remains open-source. The UI advancements and features introduced in AstoCAD won’t be exclusive to it forever. As stated on the FAQ page, the AstoCAD team plans to integrate new UI features into FreeCAD “after some time,” with Boyer indicating this could be a few months post-release in AstoCAD.

    Membership Pricing

    As previously mentioned, AstoCAD offers both premium and standard membership choices. The Standard membership is priced at €48 or $48 annually, providing members with access to AstoCAD builds. Conversely, the Premium membership costs €144 or $144 per month, offering prioritization for issue reporting. This means that users with Premium memberships will have their issues addressed more quickly than those reported by Standard members.

    If your a CAD designer, consider the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2 (currently $2,589.78 on Amazon), which we found to be a remarkable workstation in our latest review.

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    AstoCAD: New Paid Membership for Easy Open-Source AutoCAD Alternative
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  • Bluestar Linux 6.13.2: New Kernel, Firefox 135, LibreOffice 25.2

    Bluestar Linux 6.13.2: New Kernel, Firefox 135, LibreOffice 25.2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bluestar Linux has released update version 6.13.2, based on the Linux kernel of the same version.
    2. Users can choose from three flavors during installation: Desktop, Deskpro, and Developer, with a single ISO file of 4.9 GB available for download.
    3. Key package updates include Firefox 135.0, LibreOffice 25.2.0, and glibc 2.41, but KDE Plasma and Thunderbird have not been updated.
    4. The included version of Thunderbird is 128.6.0, likely due to compatibility issues or testing constraints.
    5. Bluestar Linux can be used as a live distro, with support for persistent storage.

    Based on Arch Linux and coming from Germany, Bluestar has released a new update. This version is called 6.13.2 and is built on the Linux kernel of the same version. It includes a range of package updates, but some key components like KDE Plasma and Thunderbird haven’t been updated this time around.

    Update Details

    The complete version number for this update is bslx-6.13.2-1-2025.02.10-x86_64. One thing that remains the same is that users wishing to try out this distro can select from three different flavors. While there is a single ISO file of 4.9 GB available for download, the installation process lets users choose between Desktop, Deskpro, and Developer editions.

    Package Updates

    Updated packages in this release include bind 9.20.5, e2fsprogs 1.47.2, Firefox 135.0, glibc 2.41, LibreOffice 25.2.0, mesa 24.3.4, openjdk 23.0.2, QT 6.8.2, and systemd 257.2. However, Mozilla Thunderbird 135 is notably absent. The version of this email client included in Bluestar Linux 6.13.2 is 128.6.0, possibly due to compatibility issues or insufficient testing time.

    Live Distro Option

    For those concerned about installing a system that may not meet their needs, Bluestar can also function as a live distro, offering support for persistent storage.

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  • Misleading Microsoft Edge Uninstall Guide Removed After Backlash

    Misleading Microsoft Edge Uninstall Guide Removed After Backlash

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has removed guides from its support site, including one for installing Windows 11 on unsupported systems.
    2. The “How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge” page was misleading, focusing on criticizing Google Chrome rather than providing uninstall instructions.
    3. After public feedback, Microsoft removed the misleading Edge uninstall guide and replaced it with a page that offers more information on Edge.
    4. The updated page includes brief descriptions of Microsoft Edge’s latest features to discourage users from switching to Chrome.
    5. Uninstallation steps for Microsoft Edge differ based on user location, with specific methods for users in the EU and those outside it.

    Microsoft has been busy lately removing guides from its official support site. Recently, they took down a guide that instructed users on how to install Windows 11 on systems that aren’t supported. Now, they’ve also eliminated a page that claimed to be an uninstall guide for Edge.

    The Edge Uninstall Guide

    This support page was titled “How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge,” but it didn’t actually provide any real instructions for uninstalling the browser. Instead, it focused on criticizing Google Chrome while highlighting features that Edge offers but Chrome does not.

    After people pointed out the misleading nature of this uninstall guide, Microsoft removed it quietly. The previous link now leads to a different page that doesn’t pretend to provide uninstall instructions. While the title may no longer be misleading, it still doesn’t meet the search intent for those keywords.

    Updated Page Information

    The new page does include helpful links that aim to give users more information on Microsoft Edge. For instance, it features brief descriptions of the latest updates, which may help keep users from switching to Chrome.

    If you’re looking for actual steps on uninstalling Microsoft Edge, the process is quite straightforward. Users in the EU can follow these easy steps:

    Uninstallation Steps

    For individuals outside the EU, the uninstallation process involves a different method. Here’s one of the simple ways for users outside the EU:

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  • Use uTag to Connect Samsung SmartTags with Any Android Device

    Use uTag to Connect Samsung SmartTags with Any Android Device

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s SmartTag 2 is compatible only with Galaxy devices, limiting its use for other Android phones and iPhones.
    2. The uTag app, developed by Kieron Quinn, allows Samsung SmartTags to work with any Android device.
    3. uTag replicates features of the SmartThings app, enabling efficient tracking of SmartTags on non-Galaxy phones.
    4. Unique features of uTag include location history, biometric access, offline support, and widgets, which are not available in the SmartThings app.
    5. There are concerns about Samsung potentially disabling uTag’s functionality, but the app may help attract more users to the SmartTag 2 tracker.

    In 2021, Samsung introduced its first tracker, the Galaxy SmartTag and SmartTag Plus. However, these trackers were designed to work exclusively with Samsung’s Galaxy devices. When the SmartTag 2 was unveiled in October 2023, it continued this trend of limited compatibility, only supporting Galaxy devices and leaving out other Android phones and iPhones. Recently, a developer has created an app that enables Samsung SmartTags to function with any Android device.

    Introducing uTag

    This new app, developed by Kieron Quinn, is called uTag, which stands for Universal Tag. The purpose of uTag is to mimic the SmartThings Find app that is used to track SmartTags. If you try to use a SmartTag on a phone that isn’t a Galaxy device, you’ll see an error message stating that the tracker is only compatible with Galaxy devices running Android 9 or higher.

    Once you install the uTag app, it also installs a patch for the SmartThings app that bypasses the device check, allowing users to add and set up a SmartTag. However, this addresses just one part of the issue.

    The Functionality of uTag

    As per Quinn, the user interface (UI) for tracking a SmartTag in the SmartThings app relies on various OneUI-specific packages and frameworks. Therefore, it’s not surprising that it wouldn’t work on a non-Galaxy phone. This is where uTag steps in, replacing the SmartThings app for tracking a connected SmartTag effectively.

    Quinn mentions that uTag replicates nearly all the features available to Samsung devices using SmartTags, including precise tracking for phones equipped with ultra-wide band (UWB) technology, such as the Pixel 9 Pro.

    Unique Features of uTag

    The uTag app comes with a variety of capabilities, including viewing tag locations and details, ringing a tag, setting a tag’s ringtone and volume, and searching for nearby tags. It also allows users to contribute to the Find my Everything network.

    Several features are present in uTag that are missing from the SmartThings app. These include widgets that show tag locations and location history, biometric access for the app, the ability to export location history, and offline location support, enabling users to see their tag’s last known position and search nearby even when not connected to the internet.

    uTag can be downloaded from GitHub and is open-source, allowing users to verify its authenticity. Since users need to log into their Samsung account to utilize it, this raises some privacy concerns. The app is compatible with devices running Android 11 and up, but doesn’t necessitate rooting.

    Future Considerations

    There are worries that Samsung might disable the API supporting uTag’s functionality. However, since this development also benefits Samsung by attracting more users to their SmartTag 2 tracker (currently priced at $22.80 on Amazon), it’s hoped that the app will continue to function without interruption.

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