Tag: firmware update

  • 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 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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  • 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 Firmware Update: Enhanced GPS Features for Wearables

    Garmin Firmware Update: Enhanced GPS Features for Wearables

    The Garmin Vivosmart 5 fitness tracker is getting an update. Originally launched in 2022, it serves as a simpler option compared to the brand’s more advanced smartwatches. Now, it is receiving firmware version 3.25, which comes with a single notable change.

    Improved Connected GPS Feature

    Garmin has announced that the Connected GPS functionality has been enhanced. This feature enables the Vivosmart 5 to utilize GPS information from a linked smartphone, allowing users to monitor various aspects of their walks, runs, or bike rides, including their speed and location. Sadly, the company hasn’t shared more details on how customers will notice these improvements. This update is smaller compared to version 3.24, which was released two months ago and included three fixes for bugs related to alarms, strength activities, and sleep scores.

    Update Availability

    According to a post on the Garmin forum, this update is now available for all users. The post also encourages users to report any issues in a different forum thread. So far, it seems that there have been no problems reported by customers. Users can download the Garmin Vivosmart 5 fitness tracker firmware version 3.25 either on their phones using the Garmin Connect Mobile app or on their PCs via Garmin Express.

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Backward Compatibility Rumors Gained Credibility

    Nintendo Switch 2 Backward Compatibility Rumors Gained Credibility

    Nintendo has a history of supporting backward compatibility with its consoles. Previous systems like the Wii offered compatibility with GameCube games, while the DS played Game Boy Advance titles. The 3DS also supported DS games, and the Wii U allowed the use of Wii discs and accessories. Recent speculation indicates that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 handheld console might include a similar backward compatibility feature. An extensive review of the 18.0.0 firmware update for the Nintendo Switch supports these rumors.

    Potential File Management System

    Insights gained from GitHub repositories by Famiboards user @Pokemaniac reveal that Nintendo may be creating a new system for managing files across different consoles. Specifically, code found in ‘ldr_process_creation.cpp’ and ‘ldr_content_management.hpp’ hints at this development. The introduction of a new mount point labeled "compat" (short for compatibility) suggests that file-sharing capabilities could be established between the existing Switch, which is currently priced at $284 on Amazon, and its upcoming successor.

    Enhanced Gaming Experience

    This update might enable games to adjust their graphical assets and performance based on whether they are played on the original Switch or the Switch 2. This setup appears similar to how PlayStation and Xbox approach cross-generation games. The proposed "unified file system" would allow certain game files to modify themselves according to the hardware, thereby letting users enjoy titles from the original Switch on the new model.

    Security Measures and Community Anticipation

    Moreover, the same GitHub file indicates that Nintendo could be looking to implement enhanced security protocols to protect vital files on the Switch 2 from piracy and emulation. Given Nintendo’s reputation for safeguarding its intellectual property, such measures would be quite logical. It’s important to note that much of this information stems from leaks and code analysis rather than official announcements from Nintendo.

    Fans of Nintendo have been eagerly awaiting news about the Switch 2 for some time. So far, there have been rumors about its design, pricing, fast-charging capabilities, and a substantial RAM upgrade for the successor. Many hope that Nintendo will make a definitive announcement soon, providing relief to countless fans around the world.

    Universo Nintendo and Famiboards


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  • iQOO Neo 9 Pro Update: WiFi Fix, May 2024 Security, No Video Playback

    iQOO Neo 9 Pro Update: WiFi Fix, May 2024 Security, No Video Playback

    iQOO has rolled out a new software update for its iQOO Neo 9 Pro smartphone, primarily aimed at enhancing system security and boosting performance. The update, labeled as firmware version PD2338BF_EX_A_14.0.12.0.W30, has a download size of 238MB.

    Key Improvements

    One of the significant additions in this update is the May 2024 Android security patch, which strengthens the device’s defense against security vulnerabilities. Among the changes, the update also eliminates the background video listening feature from the smart sidebar.

    Bug Fixes and Stability Enhancements

    The update addresses several critical bugs: it fixes an issue that prevented the smartphone from connecting to WiFi networks and resolves a glitch where the home screen would not appear correctly when exiting apps. Moreover, it improves the stability of the MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) and Super-resolution features, which are essential for maintaining video quality and image clarity.

    Recommendations for Users

    iQOO advises users to back up their data before initiating the update to prevent any loss of information. Additionally, the company suggests keeping the device connected to a charger during the update process, as it might consume more power and cause temporary heating.

    This firmware update is now available for iQOO Neo 9 Pro users and can be accessed through the device’s settings menu.

  • Firmware Update Adds WeChat App to Xiaomi Watch S3

    Firmware Update Adds WeChat App to Xiaomi Watch S3

    The Xiaomi Watch S3 is the company’s latest flagship smartwatch. It was announced alongside the Xiaomi 14 series in late October.

    Firmware Update for Xiaomi Watch S3

    A little over three months after its release, the wearable is receiving an important software update. The latest firmware for the accessory brings the most used app in China.

    New Features and Functions

    The eSIM variant of Xiaomi Watch S3 is receiving a new firmware update with version number 1.11.11. This update adds WeChat application. The app supports almost all the commonly used functions. Users can perform voice replies, quick replies, and emoticon replies from their wrists. The app also supports picture messages and other functions.

    However, all the aforementioned features only work when the wearable is paired with an Android phone. The WeChat app does not work if the watch is paired with an iPhone.

    Optimizations and Improvements

    At launch, the accessory had support for WeChat Pay. This functionality is now built into the WeChat app. Thus, users need to log into their account again to make payments.

    The official changelog for the software update also mentions optimizations for some system functions.

    Xiaomi Watch S3 Specifications

    The Xiaomi Watch S3 is the company’s first smartwatch with replaceable bezels. It is also the firm’s first wearable to ship with HyperOS software.

    The accessory sports a 1.43-inch circular OLED display. The screen has a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, 326 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits peak brightness level.

    The watch has an aluminum alloy middle frame and a stainless steel bezel. The straps come in rubber and leather variants.

    The wearable arrives with all common features, such as fitness modes, health tracking functions, 5ATM water resistance, calling, and others. Last but not least, it can last up to 15 days on a full charge.