Tag: firmware update

  • Sony Updates WH-1000XM6 and WF-1000XM5 with Key Improvements

    Sony Updates WH-1000XM6 and WF-1000XM5 with Key Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has released firmware updates for WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6, but not for WH-1000XM5.
    2. Updates improve Quick Access and Scene-based Listening modes for Apple Music and YouTube Music.
    3. A new Low Latency Bluetooth connection option is introduced, alongside existing connection settings.
    4. The WH-1000XM6 gains a feature to alert users of potential water damage to its USB Type-C port and supports voice commands in French, German, and Spanish after the update.
    5. Users must install updates via the Sound Connect app without charging the headphones during the process.

    Sony has been seen rolling out a fresh wave of updates for two of its 1000X series headphones. Strangely, the WH-1000XM5 has not been included in this update cycle. Instead, Sony is providing new firmware for the WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6, priced at $448 on Amazon, with updates labeled as Version 5.0.2 and Version 2.0.2, respectively.

    Improvements in Listening Modes

    Sony claims that these updates enhance the Quick Access and Scene-based Listening modes when using Apple Music and YouTube Music. Additionally, the new firmware introduces a Low Latency Bluetooth connection option, which is meant to work alongside the existing Stable Connection and Sound Quality settings.

    New Features for Enhanced Experience

    Furthermore, Sony highlights that both updates enable the ‘capture your own voice during call’ feature to function with all ambient sound controls. The WH-1000XM6 also gains the ability to alert users if its USB Type-C port experiences water damage. After updating to Version 2.0.2, the headphones will also support voice commands in French, German, and Spanish.

    As usual, users will need to install the firmware updates through the Sound Connect app, which may take up to an hour to finish. It’s important to note that the WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6 should not be charging while performing the update. For more details, check Sony’s support announcements.

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    Sony Updates WH-1000XM6 and WF-1000XM5 with Key Improvements
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  • 8BitDo macOS Software Update: Supports Ultimate 2, Ultimate 2C

    8BitDo macOS Software Update: Supports Ultimate 2, Ultimate 2C

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 is compatible with Windows and macOS for firmware updates and controller customization.
    2. The Mac version has more compatibility issues compared to Windows, but a new update (version 1.0.4) improves device support.
    3. Users can remap buttons, adjust vibration settings, and create gaming profiles with the software.
    4. The updated macOS version supports more devices, including controllers, receivers, and mice.
    5. Users can modify keys, adjust RGB lighting, and perform firmware updates after installing the new software.

    The 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 is one of the trio of software options designed for 8BitDo devices. It is compatible with both Windows and macOS, allowing users to update the firmware on their compatible controllers. Additionally, it enables button remapping, vibration settings, and the creation of various gaming profiles.

    Compatibility Issues

    However, it’s important to note that not every 8BitDo game controller and accessory is compatible with this software. In fact, the Mac version seems to support even fewer devices compared to its Windows counterpart. The good news is that 8BitDo has announced the release of a new macOS version, which now supports a wider range of devices, including controllers, receivers, and a mouse.

    New Devices Added

    The updated macOS software is version 1.0.4 and can be downloaded from the link provided below. After the installation, users of the newly supported devices will have the ability to modify and disable keys, adjust RGB lighting for products that support it, and perform firmware updates.

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  • Amazfit Active 2 Update: Exciting New Features for Smartwatch

    Amazfit Active 2 Update: Exciting New Features for Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatches are receiving a new firmware update (version 6.1.18.3) that is being rolled out in stages.
    2. New features in the update include double-tap to wake, customizable notification icon display in AOD mode, and Glove mode for colder weather.
    3. The design of the watch’s shortcut cards has been refined in this update.
    4. A persistent bug requires double-pressing a button for workout functions, which remains unresolved.
    5. There is no timeline for when the update will be available for all Active 2 units, which are priced around $99.99.

    The Amazfit Active 2 and Active 2 Premium smartwatches are getting yet another firmware update. The new version, 6.1.18.3, comes just a few weeks after the earlier version 6.0.14.1, which modified the raise-to-wake feature. This update file is 23.72 MB in size and seems to be rolling out to users in stages.

    New Features Included

    As per the release notes shared by users on Reddit, the 6.1.18.3 update adds support for double-tap to wake the screen. In the always-on display (AOD) mode, you now have the option to either display or hide the notification icon; you can find this setting under Settings > Display > Always On. This update also introduces Glove mode, which will be beneficial in colder weather. Moreover, the design of the watch’s shortcut cards has been refined.

    Ongoing Issues Still Present

    The complete release notes can be viewed in the image below. Users on Reddit have pointed out that a bug requiring double-pressing a button to start, pause, or lap during workouts remains unresolved in this update. Amazfit has not yet provided any information on when users can expect a fix for this problem. It is uncertain when the software version 6.1.18.3 will be available for all units of the Active 2 smartwatch, which is currently priced around $99.99 at Amazon.

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    Amazfit Active 2 Update: Exciting New Features for Smartwatch
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  • Huawei Smartwatch Update Adds New Messaging Feature

    Huawei Smartwatch Update Adds New Messaging Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Huawei Watch Fit 3 is receiving a new firmware update, version 5.0.0.17, which is 110.5 MB in size.
    2. Users can now directly respond to messages from their smartwatch using the new Celia keyboard feature, available for Android devices.
    3. The update allows users to reject calls from WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, and Telegram via notifications on the watch.
    4. The firmware aims to improve system stability in certain situations, though specific details are not provided.
    5. The update is being released in phases and can be downloaded through the Huawei Health app.

    The Huawei Watch Fit 3 smartwatch is getting a fresh global update. The new firmware, version 5.0.0.17(C00M03), is a 110.5 MB download that follows the HarmonyOS 5 release that happened at the end of 2024. This update introduces several enhancements related to messaging and calls.

    New Messaging Features

    According to the change log for firmware version 5.0.0.17, users can now directly respond to messages from their Watch Fit 3. This new capability comes from the integration of the Celia keyboard, which allows users to reply to messages across different platforms, including SMS, Whatsapp, and Messenger. However, it should be noted that this feature is only available for those using Android devices.

    Call Management Enhancements

    In addition, this update adds a feature that enables users to reject calls from WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, and Telegram. Now, users have the option to decline calls from their connected smartphone through notifications on their watch. Moreover, the firmware is reported to improve system stability in “certain situations,” although specifics are not provided.

    The firmware version 5.0.0.17(C00M03) can be downloaded via the Huawei Health app. It appears that the update is being rolled out in phases, and it is not yet clear when it will be available to all Huawei Watch Fit 3 users.

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  • Philips Hue Update Enhances Battery Life for Smart Cameras

    Philips Hue Update Enhances Battery Life for Smart Cameras

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue has released a new update (version 1.2.32.976150) for its Secure Camera line in 2025, marking the second update this year.
    2. The update improves battery life and reduces accidental camera activations for battery-operated devices like the Secure Battery Camera.
    3. Optimizations have been made to the Wi-Fi chip’s sleep mode after channel switches to help conserve battery.
    4. A bug that prevented some battery cameras from reporting events has been fixed in this update.
    5. The update began rolling out in early May and should automatically install on compatible devices; users can check for updates in the Philips Hue app settings.

    Philips Hue has released a new update for its Secure Camera line. This marks the second update for these smart home gadgets in 2025, coming after a March release. The previous firmware aimed to boost battery life for certain devices and made the PIR cooldown settings more user-friendly.

    Latest Improvements

    The new Secure Cameras version 1.2.32.976150 offers additional enhancements for battery-operated devices such as the Secure Battery Camera (currently priced at $159.99 on Amazon). One of the key improvements is the decrease in accidental camera activations, which means that the camera should remain operational for a longer period. Additionally, the Wi-Fi chip’s sleep mode has been optimized after a channel switch, which should help in conserving battery life. Furthermore, a bug that previously stopped some battery cameras from reporting events has been fixed.

    Update Availability

    The rollout of the Secure Cameras 1.2.32.976150 update began in early May, so it’s probable that all users can now access it. The update should automatically install on compatible devices. To ensure that you have enabled these updates, you can check in the Philips Hue app by navigating to Settings > Software update > Automatic update.

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    Philips Hue Update Enhances Battery Life for Smart Cameras

     

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  • Philips Hue Bridge and HDMI Sync Box Receive Exciting Updates

    Philips Hue Bridge and HDMI Sync Box Receive Exciting Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue Bridge firmware update to version 1970188010 improves performance and reliability.
    2. Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K firmware update to version 2.5.1 includes general bug fixes.
    3. Both updates are being rolled out to most users with no major new features.
    4. The previous HDMI Sync Box update (version 2.5.0) introduced new features for the 8K model.
    5. Users should ensure automatic updates are enabled in the Philips Hue app to receive the latest versions.

    Philips Hue has just released new firmware updates for both the Hue Bridge and the Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K. These updates are relatively minor and come a few weeks after the previous versions.

    Philips Hue Bridge Update

    The Philips Hue Bridge (currently priced at $41.89 on Amazon) is now getting software version 1970188010. The notes for this release suggest that there are improvements in performance and reliability for this smart lighting hub, but no additional specifics are mentioned. The company states that this update should be available to all Hue Bridge users.

    Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K Update

    On the other hand, the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K (currently available for $249.99 on Amazon) is being updated to firmware version 2.5.1. Similar to the Bridge update, the release notes are quite brief, mentioning general bug fixes. This update is expected to reach most, if not all, users during this rollout phase. It’s worth noting that back in early April, Philips Hue released version 2.5.0 for the HDMI Sync Boxes, which addressed bugs for the 4K model and introduced new features for the 8K variant, such as support for Display Stream Compression (DSC) pass-through, 3D content pass-through, and 144Hz light syncing.

    Ensuring You Get the Updates

    To make sure you receive these updates, it’s important to verify that automatic updates are enabled in the Philips Hue app. You can easily check this by navigating to Settings > Software update > Automatic update.

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  • Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced AOD, Sleep Metrics, Step Accuracy

    Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced AOD, Sleep Metrics, Step Accuracy

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch firmware update (version 6.012.3) introduces a smarter Readiness Score algorithm focused on sleep quality.
    2. The update features a brighter Always-On Display (AOD) for improved visibility.
    3. Notification pop-ups during workouts have been enhanced for clarity.
    4. A new meditation app is included for guided sessions.
    5. User feedback on step tracking accuracy varies, with some reporting improvements while others still experience issues.

    The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch has begun receiving a new firmware update, version 6.012.3. This update brings various changes and enhancements that users have been discussing on Reddit. According to the changelog, there are four key features being either introduced or improved upon:

    Enhanced Features

    1. A smarter Readiness Score algorithm that focuses more on sleep quality.
    2. A brighter Always-On Display (AOD) for better visibility.
    3. Improved notification pop-ups that are clearer during workouts.
    4. A new meditation app designed for guided sessions.

    User Reactions

    Feedback from users about this update has been varied. Some Reddit users have noted a big boost in the accuracy of step-counting, with one person claiming their watch used to miss as much as 30% of their steps, a problem they say is fixed now. On the flip side, there are others who still face issues with step tracking, reporting a loss of about 20% of their daily steps.

    Readiness Score Update

    The modifications to the Readiness Score algorithm have caught the attention of many users. Some are hopeful that this update will make the score more attuned to sleep quality, which has been a frequent complaint. Nevertheless, others have mentioned needing more time to fully assess the effects of these changes. Early feedback indicates that while physical recovery scores might drop, overall scores are still quite high. Opinions on the brighter AOD, the enhanced notifications, and the new meditation app are limited for now, as users likely need more time to evaluate these features.

    As is common with firmware updates, it may take a few days for the new version to reach all Amazfit Active 2 devices.

    New Smartwatch Launch

    Amazfit has also introduced the Bip 6 smartwatch, priced at $79.99. It comes with a 1.97″ AMOLED display, a 14-day battery life, BioTracker 6.0 sensors, over 140 workout modes, Bluetooth calling, offline navigation, and AI coaching. Targeted at fitness enthusiasts, it supports HYROX race training and provides core health tracking without any subscription fees.

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  • Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced Smart Readiness Score

    Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced Smart Readiness Score

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new firmware update for Amazfit Active 2 is version 6.0.12.3, which is a 13.49MB file and is being released gradually in various countries, including the US and Germany.
    2. The readiness score feature is now ‘smarter’ and aligns better with users’ sleep patterns.
    3. The always-on display has been improved to be brighter for better visibility in sunny conditions.
    4. Workout notifications have been enhanced to deliver content directly to users instead of appearing as alerts.
    5. A new meditation application has been added to the smartwatch, and users have reported improved step counting accuracy.

    Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch owners are begining to notice a fresh update. This comes after the previous version 6.0.8.4, which added local music storage to the device. The new firmware, version 6.0.12.3, is a 13.49MB file and is being released to users gradually. Reports of this update have emerged from customers in various countries, like the US and Germany.

    Improvements Noted

    The change log for version 6.0.12.3 lists four key enhancements. The readiness score has become ‘smarter’, aligning better with your sleep patterns. While many users are hopeful about this update, the early feedback doesn’t seem to indicate significant changes. Another enhancement is that the always-on display is brighter now, making it easier to see the screen in sunny conditions. Additionally, workout notifications have been improved, delivering content directly to users instead of popping up as alerts. Lastly, a meditation application has been introduced to the Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch, currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon.

    User Feedback

    One notable change that users have pointed out, which isn’t included in the release notes, is the improvement in step counting accuracy. It seems that a previous issue with the step counting algorithm has been resolved with this update. Once the update is accessible to you, it can be downloaded through the Zepp app. To initiate the process, navigate to Profile > My Devices > Amazfit Active 2 > System Update.

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  • Philips Hue Update Boosts Battery Life for Smart Home Devices

    Philips Hue Update Boosts Battery Life for Smart Home Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue released firmware update 1.2.32.976110 for Secure cameras in 2025, following a previous update in November 2024.
    2. The setup process in the Philips Hue app is now easier, with more accurate Wi-Fi router names and user-friendly PIR sensor cooldown settings.
    3. Short video clips are no longer uploaded, and the overall upload success rate has improved.
    4. Battery performance for the Secure Battery camera is enhanced, reducing unnecessary wake-ups and improving motion snooze settings.
    5. The automatic transition between day and night modes is now more accurate, and the update will be automatically pushed to compatible devices.

    Philips Hue has rolled out a new update for its Secure cameras. The firmware version 1.2.32.976110 marks the first update for these smart home devices in 2025. The previous update came in November 2024, which introduced several enhancements, including better motion detection, improved Bluetooth connectivity, and updates for clip uploads.

    Improved Setup Process

    The latest update for the Secure cameras, version 1.2.32.976110, has made the setup process in the Philips Hue app easier. As mentioned in the release notes, the Wi-Fi router names shown in the app are now more accurate. The cooldown settings for the Passive Infrared (PIR) sensor are reported to be more user-friendly. Additionally, short video clips are no longer uploaded, and the overall upload success rate has seen improvements.

    Battery Performance Enhancements

    Other changes affect battery-operated devices, such as the Secure Battery camera, which is currently priced at $109.99 on Amazon. This update enhances battery life by minimizing “unnecessary” wake-ups and fine-tuning motion snooze settings. Users should experience fewer issues with devices being unreachable or not entering sleep mode. Furthermore, the automatic transition between day and night modes is now more accurate.

    For those interested, the full change log can be found below. The Philips Hue Secure cameras update, version 1.2.32.976110, will be automatically pushed to compatible devices. Recently, the company also released an update for the Philips Hue app, hinting at a new feature for AI-generated lighting effects.

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    Philips Hue Update Boosts Battery Life for Smart Home Devices
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  • Garmin Updates Body Battery TrueUp for More Smartwatches

    Garmin Updates Body Battery TrueUp for More Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Firmware version 7.10 for the Lily 2 smartwatches introduces the Body Battery TrueUp feature, enhancing the accuracy of the Body Battery metric for users with multiple devices.
    2. Improvements have been made to the respiration algorithm and heart rate detection, though user feedback on these changes is limited.
    3. The Sensor Hub software has been upgraded to version 33.13, but the specific benefits for users have not been detailed.
    4. The firmware update is available to all Lily 2 smartwatch users.
    5. The Lily 2 smartwatch is priced at $199.99 and the update can be downloaded via Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect Mobile app.

    Garmin has rolled out firmware version 7.10 for the Lily 2 series smartwatches. This new update comes about three months after the last version, 6.11. The previous update improved the Connected GPS feature and included various other enhancements.

    New Features in Firmware 7.10

    With firmware version 7.10, users can now take advantage of Body Battery TrueUp, a new feature that improves the accuracy of the Body Battery metric for those who own multiple devices. This is done by syncing important data such as heart rate variability, sleep quality, and physical activity across all wearables. Body Battery TrueUp has also been introduced to other models, such as the Fenix 8, Venu 3, and vivoactive 5.

    Enhancements and Updates

    Garmin claims that the respiration algorithm and heart rate detection have been improved as well. However, feedback from users about the significance of these changes is still lacking. Additionally, the Sensor Hub software has been upgraded to version 33.13. Regrettably, Garmin hasn’t clarified the benefits of this software update for users.

    Availability and Pricing

    Garmin has announced that firmware version 7.10 is now accessible to all users of the Lily 2 smartwatch, which is currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon. Users can download the update via Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect Mobile app.

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    Garmin Updates Body Battery TrueUp for More Smartwatches

     

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