Category: Software

January 28, 2025
Leica LUX 1.4 Update Brings Leica I Simulation to iPhone
To celebrate the centennial of the Leica I, Leica has launched a special edition of the Leica M11 along with several accessories. They’ve also refreshed their LUX app for iPhone, introducing a filter that mimics the appearance of a Leica I along with a Leica Elmar 50 mm f/3.5 lens.
New Features of the LUX App
This fresh simulation can be accessed with the Leica LUX app starting from version 1.4, which is available for download at no cost on the App Store. Nevertheless, users will need to pay for a subscription to unlock all the features. The cost for the subscription is $6.99 each month or $69.99 for a year. It’s worth noting that Leica LUX is exclusively for iOS, meaning Android users cannot use it.
Details About the New Simulation
Leica has shared just a few insights about the app’s new film simulation. Notably, it captures images in black and white, reflecting the fact that color film was not widely used in the 1920s. Users can tweak the virtual aperture anywhere from f/3.5 to f/5.6 to achieve their preferred bokeh effect. Additionally, the filter aims to recreate the distinctive grainy texture and soft contrast that characterized photography from that era.
Performance of the Simulated Lens
The simulated Leica Elmar 50 mm f/3.5 is known for its good performance in the center of the image, but the edges tend to reveal fewer details. Thanks to its collapsible design, the Leica I paired with the Elmar lens was small enough to fit into a large pocket, whether in trousers or a coat.
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Tags: Leica Elmar 50 mm f/3.5, Leica LUX app, Leica M11
January 28, 2025
Home Assistant 2025.1.4 Patch Release Now Live
Home Assistant has rolled out the software version 2025.1.4, which is the freshest patch for the open-source home automation program. This release comes after the bigger Home Assistant 2025.1 update that was launched on January 3rd.
New Features and Integrations
The 2025.1 update for Home Assistant introduces a revamped backup system that includes features like automated backups and encrypted storage in the Home Assistant cloud. Users now have the option to choose categories and labels while setting up an automation or script. There’s also a new quick bar for devices that allows for quicker navigation. Additionally, new integrations have been added for products such as Thermomix’s Cookidoo and the Ohme and Peblar smart EV chargers. Furthermore, the TP-Link integration now supports camera devices, and the SwitchBot integration has added compatibility for the Water Leak Detector (curr. $17.99 at Amazon) and relay switch.
Minor Adjustments in the Latest Patch
The Home Assistant 2025.1.4 update includes several smaller tweaks. For instance, users with Hydrawise smart Wi-Fi irrigation systems will see an increase in the maximum watering duration from 90 minutes to 600 minutes. The Peblar integration has been upgraded to v0.4.0, and the aiowithings package, which pulls data from Withings, is now at version 3.1.5. Detailed release notes for the Home Assistant 2025.1.4 patch, as well as the broader 2025.1 update, can be found on the company’s blog.
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Tags: Home Assistant 2025.1.4, Thermomix Cookidoo, TP-LINK
January 28, 2025
Xiaomi HyperOS 2.1 Global Launch Set for February 2025
Xiaomi is getting ready to launch its next major software update, called HyperOS 2.1, for users around the world. After its initial release in China for certain high-end devices, there are indications that the global rollout for HyperOS 2.1 is set for February 2025. This means that fans of Xiaomi everywhere could soon enjoy this new software experience.
Release Timeline
According to XiaomiTime, the global launch of HyperOS 2.1 is on schedule for early 2025, and a clearer timeline has started to emerge. Reports suggest that Xiaomi has already created the global version of the firmware, and although there’s been no formal announcement yet, the update could begin to roll out by the end of February.
Device Compatibility
Expected to be one of the first devices to receive this update is the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. An internal version of HyperOS 2.1, identified as firmware version OS2.0.100.0.VNAMIXM, seems to be specifically designed for the 14 Ultra. Following this, Xiaomi is likely to incrementally release the update to additional devices in various regions.
Features and Improvements
So, what can users look forward to in HyperOS 2.1? Xiaomi is highlighting numerous enhancements aimed at elevating the user experience. The update is said to bring a more polished home screen featuring user-friendly UI elements, an updated Control Center, and a focus on smoother connectivity.
The camera functionality might see improvements as well with this update. It promises smarter AI tools, better album management, and optimizations that aim to enhance photography. Gamers could also see benefits from updates aimed at providing a more fluid and engaging experience.
As the global launch of HyperOS 2.1 approaches, the key question remains whether Xiaomi will introduce any notable changes to set the international version apart from the one available in China.
Tags: HyperOS 2.1, software update, Xiaomi 14 Ultra
January 28, 2025
iOS 18.3 Update Fixes Major Criticism of Apple Intelligence
Apple is in the process of releasing iOS 18.3, which is a 1.8 GB update that brings a variety of new features. Most of these updates are focused on Apple Intelligence, which is currently only accessible on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, and iPhone 16 Pro, and just for users in the USA at this moment. The launch of Apple Intelligence in Europe is anticipated to coincide with the arrival of iOS 18.4, set for April.
Key Improvements
This update largely focuses on enhancements to Notification Summaries, which faced significant backlash last year due to AI-generated misinformation. With iOS 18.3, users can now modify the Notification Summary settings directly on their lock screens. A fresh icon has been introduced, making it simpler for users to differentiate between summaries and standard notifications. For now, news apps will be left out of the summaries to prevent the spread of misleading headlines.
New Features and Fixes
Visual Intelligence has been upgraded to allow users to create calendar entries simply by scanning a poster or flyer with their iPhone camera. Additionally, it can now identify and label animals and plants. The calculator app has also received a handy new feature that lets users repeat a calculation by tapping the equal sign again. This update addresses various issues in the keyboard and music app as well. Furthermore, Apple Intelligence will automatically activate for anyone who is new or upgrading to iOS 18.3, meaning that users who prefer not to use this feature will need to turn it off themselves via the “Settings” and “Apple Intelligence & Siri” options.
Conclusion
Apple is making strides with the iOS 18.3 update, focusing on user experience and feedback. While some features are limited to specific devices and regions for now, the company is clearly working towards broader availability in the near future. Users should keep an eye on these developments and be prepared to manage their settings accordingly.
Tags: Apple Intelligence, iOS 18.3, iPhone 15 Pro
January 28, 2025
Pixelfed, Loops, Sup: Crowdfunding Alternatives to Instagram, TikTok
Pixelfed, Loops, and Sup are three emerging open-source options meant to compete with major social media platforms like Threads, X, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp. They recently launched a Kickstarter campaign to boost their growth. These platforms operate on the ActivityPub protocol, which also supports Mastodon and is seen as foundational to the open social web. By intentionally steering clear of algorithms for managing content, the developers hope to sidestep filter bubbles and foster a more user-focused social networking experience. Notably, Pixelfed has climbed to the top of the download charts on both the Google Play Store and iOS AppStore. However, since these platforms do not rely on ads, developers depend on voluntary community contributions to manage their operational expenses.
A Successful Start
Recently, the team kicked off their Kickstarter campaign to hasten the development process and introduce new features. The initial response was incredible: they surpassed their original funding goal of C$50,000 in just 13 hours. By the end of the first weekend, they had already secured over C$100,000 (which is nearly $70,000).
Ambitious Plans Ahead
The campaign has set its sights on high ambitions. Alongside speeding up the development of Pixelfed and Loops for web, iOS, and Android, they are also planning to create Sup, an alternative to messaging apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat. Additionally, they aim to enhance areas like moderation, security, data protection, and youth protection, while also translating the platforms into various languages. Other stretch goals include hiring full-time developers, establishing a cloud/CDN platform for the Fediverse, and creating a Pixelfed Foundation as a legal entity.
Commitment to Ethical Principles
The creators of Pixelfed, Loops, and Sup adhere to the “Ethical Web Principles” advocated by W3C and respectfulplatforms.org. These principles emphasize fostering a healthy community and culture of discussion, safeguarding privacy, upholding freedom of speech, and ensuring the accuracy of information.
Pixelfed, Loops, and Sup are being presented as promising alternatives in the social media landscape, standing in contrast to the mainstream platforms with their dedication to open-source, decentralization, and ethical values. The current success of their Kickstarter campaign highlights a growing interest in social networks that prioritize user needs and contribute to a more open and democratic online environment.
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Tags: Loops, Pixelfed, Sup
January 27, 2025
Solus 4.7: New Software Center and Better Video Card Support
Previously called Evolve OS, Solus is a pretty unique Linux distribution that focuses on 64-bit hardware and is built on the Linux kernel, offering a variety of desktop environments. Currently, there are four desktop choices included in the official images. Just released yesterday, Solus 4.7 Endurance runs on the 6.12.9 kernel, an upgrade from the 6.10.13 seen in version 4.6. Notable improvements in this version include better support for video cards and the replacement of the solus-sc (Solus Software Center) package manager with a new one that has Flatpak support.
Kernel Options
Moreover, it’s worth noting that users who prefer a Long-Term Support (LTS) kernel can opt for Solus that runs on the 6.6.70 kernel. Soon, the distribution will transition to the 6.12.x kernel series. Here are the key software packages that have been updated in the latest release:
Desktop Choices and System Requirements
The four options available on the official downloads page include: Solus Plasma, Solus Xfce-Beta, Solus GNOME, and Solus Budgie. Their file sizes range from 2.8 GB to 3.2 GB, and the system requirements are quite manageable, starting at less than 10 GB of disk space and requiring 4 GB of RAM. As previously stated, only 64-bit processors are supported.
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Tags: Flatpak, Linux kernel 6.12, Solus
January 27, 2025
EcoFlow Launches Paywall for Premium Power Solution Features
EcoFlow is one of the well-known brands in the energy solutions market, providing products like power stations and solar panels. The company doesn’t just focus on batteries; it also offers a variety of devices packed with smart functionalities. These gadgets can show the power output or connect with an app for added convenience. When customers buy a product, they currently get access to all smart features without having to pay extra. However, reports suggest that this may soon change, as indicated by a statement from EcoFlow.
Changes to Smart Features
Some of the smart features in the app will have a golden diamond symbol to signify their premium status. Pricing information for certain features has been released. For instance, intelligent power management is expected to cost at least €3.99 (US$4.19). However, details on how long a subscription might last are still unclear. It’s evident that using these premium features will not be cheap; accessing one feature on multiple devices could potentially cost consumers up to €70 (US$74).
Confirmation of Paid Features
In response to questions from the German media outlet Appgefahren, EcoFlow has seemingly acknowledged its intentions to launch paid features. The company stated that, while there are no additional fees at the moment, future products may come with charges. EcoFlow has not provided specific information about the scope and pricing of these upcoming services.
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Tags: EcoFlow, paid subscription, Smart Features
January 27, 2025
OnePlus Phone Gets BeaconLink Feature for Calls Without Signal
OnePlus has unveiled the latest OxygenOS 15.0.0.500 specifically for the OnePlus 12R. This new software version will be accessible in regions such as IN, EU, GLO, and NA. Users must already be operating OxygenOS 15 to install this update; those still on OxygenOS 14 cannot upgrade directly. While the changelog might not be very long, it does include some significant improvements.
New Features Included
Among the new features, there are two standout additions: BeaconLink and Touch to Share. With BeaconLink, users can make calls without needing a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. However, it’s important to note that both users must have compatible phones to utilize this feature. Official sources state that the connection range is less than 500 m (1,640 ft), making it handy in situations where mobile networks are congested, like busy events. This functionality is not limited to OnePlus devices, as it is also available on select Oppo smartphones.
Enhancements and Security Updates
The second key feature listed in the changelog is Touch to Share, which enables the OnePlus 12R to transfer files and photos to iOS devices. The company has also announced improvements to system stability to enhance the overall user experience. Additionally, the update includes the January 2025 Android security patch to bolster defenses against potential threats.
For those curious about the OnePlus 12R, you can refer to our review from last year. This 5G smartphone, which includes a Hasselblad camera system, is available for purchase from OnePlus for approximately $600.
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Tags: BeaconLink, OnePlus 12R, OxygenOS 15
January 25, 2025
Windows 11 Introduces Colored Battery Icons for Easy Battery Info
Microsoft has introduced a fresh Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, bringing some cool and much-needed updates to the battery icon. These adjustments aim to give users clearer insights into their device’s battery status with just a quick look.
New Features in Build 26120.3000
Among the highlights of this new build — Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3000 (KB5050103) — is the addition of colored icons. Currently, the battery icon on Windows 11 systems, including gaming handhelds like the Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon), appears in either black or white, depending on the light or dark theme selection. The latest update will allow the battery icon to show in three colors: black, yellow, or green based on its condition.
Understanding the Color Codes
When the icon turns green, Microsoft indicates that the PC is charging and functioning well. A yellow icon signifies that the device is in energy-saving mode, while a red battery icon means the battery is running critically low and should be plugged in without delay.
Microsoft has mentioned that these new colored battery icons will be visible not only on the taskbar in the system tray but also in the Quick Settings menu and in the Settings app. They plan to roll out the icons for the lock screen in future updates.
Additional Updates and Features
Apart from the colored battery icons, this build introduces support for displaying battery percentage directly on the taskbar. Users can enable this feature through Settings. Once turned on, the battery percentage will show up right next to the battery icon. This addition is particularly beneficial since users previously had to hover over the icon or click it to see the battery percentage in the Quick Settings.
Another minor tweak is the repositioning of the lightning bolt icon that appears when the PC is connected to a power source. In the images released by Microsoft, this lightning symbol is now centered on the battery icon, rather than being on the left side.
Microsoft notes that these new features are being rolled out slowly to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel, meaning that not everyone will have access to it right away. This gradual rollout allows the company to gather user feedback before wider distribution.
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Tags: battery icons, Lenovo Legion Go, Windows 11
January 25, 2025
Subaru Software Vulnerability Gives Hackers Full Vehicle Access
As the automotive sector becomes increasingly advanced and interconnected, the risks associated with security weaknesses are on the rise. A recent report highlights how exposed connected vehicles can be.
Discovery of Vulnerabilities
A security researcher named Sam Curry has shared a blog post explaining how he and a partner, Shubham Shah, managed to breach the Starlink software system utilized by Subaru vehicles. Starlink is responsible for the infotainment system in Subaru cars, providing functionalities like remotely locking or unlocking the car and even starting it from a distance.
Curry noted that a flaw in the Subaru employee login page for the Starlink system enabled him to discover a valid employee email, reset the employee’s password, and bypass any two-factor authentication measures to access the system.
Accessing Sensitive Information
Upon gaining entry into the Starlink system, Curry found he could track any registered Subaru vehicle using various identifiers: customer name, phone number, email address, or vehicle identification number (VIN). (It’s important to mention that VINs are easily obtainable through a license plate.) After locating a vehicle, a wealth of information was available for the taking, including billing details, emergency contacts, and much more.
The personal data was not only accessible but also included the vehicle’s location history for the past year, which, according to Curry, was straightforward to download and visualize. This data comprised time stamps, the car’s odometer reading, and GPS coordinates with a precision of about 15 feet or 5 meters.
Alarming Control Capabilities
What’s particularly concerning is that Curry was able to find a friend’s car within the database and add his own credentials as an authorized Starlink user for that vehicle. Once granted access, he could control the vehicle remotely, unlocking and locking it, starting it from afar, and pinpointing its location. The original Starlink user received no alerts about the new user being added to their vehicle’s Starlink account.
Fortunately, Subaru seems to have addressed the security flaw, which was identified by Curry in November 2024. The automaker acted commendably, deploying a patch within 24 hours of Curry’s report. This incident underscores the reality that, despite the intelligence of our vehicles, they remain susceptible to thieves and other malicious entities.
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Tags: car security vulnerabilities, Starlink, Subaru