Friday, June 25, 2021

Asus ROG Phone 5 receives a new update with Improved stability

Asus unveiled the ROG Phone 5 a couple of months back this year. The company is leaving no stone unturned to keep the gaming experience alive with the device. Since the launch, the ROG Phone 5 has received a handful of updates that bought a bunch of fixes, optimizations, and new additions. Once again, the smartphone is grabbing a new software update that improves its system stability.

 ROG Phone 5
Make sure to visit: Google Chrome to probably get a consolidated share menu soon

The latest software update for the high-end smartphone arrives on firmware version JP_18.0840.2104.56. Concluding from the 'JP' in the number, the software is presently live in Japan. The ROG Phone 5 units in other regions will hopefully get a similar treatment by next week.

Asus is one of the few companies in the gaming hardware business, the ROG series has been its feather on the cap. The introduction of ROG Phone 5 boosted up the gaming segment. Moreover, the device can handle extensive gaming hours, media playback, and any other activity along with super-responsive touch.

Regarding changes, the new build furthermore enhances the devices' stability during the gameplay to provide a more seamless experience. After flashing the update, the minor bugs or drawbacks that hindered the gaming hours will not be a trouble anymore.

Changelog



  • Improved stability during gameplay


As most of the updates take place, this FOTA build is also unfurling to different serial numbers by batches. Accordingly, it may take a while to reach out to your device. Alternatively, you can navigate the update by tapping Settings > System updates > System, here check if there is new firmware available is available to you.
Read more: Asus will commence the Android 12 Beta update program once Google releases Stable build

Redmi Note 8 (2021) start receiving stable MIUI 12.5 update

It seems like Xiaomi has shot up its speed to release its latest stable skin for its flagships. So far, a handful of devices including Mi Max 3, Mi 11X Pro, Mi 9 Pro 5G, and several others have bagged the new software this week. It's not been even a month since the launch of the Redmi Note 8 (2021), it is inculcating the new MIUI 12.5 update.

Redmi Note 8 (2021)

Make sure to visit: Download Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold wallpapers

The latest build for the 2021 variant of Redmi Note 8 arrives on firmware version V12.5.1.0.RCUEUXM. From the 'EU', we can draw that it is currently limited to Europe, while units in other regions will get similar treatment soon.

As far as features are concerned, MIUI 12.5 brings enhanced performance, UI tweaks, new animations, privacy features, an updated Notes app, and a lot more. Moreover, the changelog mentions that after flashing the build, the system has 20 times more rendering power. Take a look at the update log below.

Changelog



  • System

    • Gesture response is now instant

    • With 20x more rendering power, there are now few limits to what you can see on screen.

    • With custom adjustments based on the device model, any phone gets faster after the update.

    • MIUI becomes lighter, faster, and more durable.



  • Note

    • New: Compose mind maps with complex structures.

    • New: New tools for doodling and sketching.

    • New: Press and hold a sketch to automatically adjust strokes.



    • New: A gesture shortcut now lets you create notes, tasks, and excerpts anywhere.



    • New: Excerpts save text, URLs, and images in Notes with just a few taps.

    • New: Dynamic layouts take typography in Notes to a new level.




As always, the OTA update is rolling out in a phase-wise manner, taking more time to hit all units. Alternatively, the users from Europe can track the build via Settings > Software updates > Check for the updates. Furthermore, you can also follow below to download and flash the update file manually.

Downloads



  • Device: Redmi Note 8 (2021)

  • Channel: Stable

  • Region: Europe

  • Android: 11

  • Version: MIUI 12.5

  • Build: V12.5.1.0.RCUEUXM

  • File type: Recovery


Download Now


Note: Don’t prefer this method if you don’t know how to flash the update manually.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Google announces a new Android smartphone and 5G partnership with Jio

Last year, Google announced its partnership with Reliance Jio. Today, Jio announced that it will introduce an affordable 5G Jio smartphone powered by Google Cloud. This device will power an extremely optimized version of the Android operating system. The smartphone developed with an alliance of both the giants will be called JioPhone Next.

JioPhone Next

Must see: Download Android Studio 4.2 New Features and Changes in the Bag

JioPhone Next was announced at the 44th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Reliance Industries by Mukesh Ambani. The smartphone will support voice assistant, automatic read-aloud of screen text, language translation. Above all, it will provide access to the Google Play store.

JioPhone Next

With the covid-19 pandemic, our dependency on online services and information has increased. From education to work and entertainment, everything has become virtual. However, there are still a hundred million Indian users that still do not have access to the digital world. Keeping this in mind, the main motive to introduce an affordable smartphone is to make internet access easy for millions of users in India with Jio.
"Last year, Sundar and I had talked about Google and Jio co-developing a next-generation, feature-rich, but extremely affordable smartphone," says Ambani at the Reliance AGM.

JioPhone Next

Despite being an affordable smartphone, Jio and Google do not compromise with the features and camera quality. In fact, the device is likely to deliver a great camera experience. Furthermore, it will receive the latest Android feature and security updates constantly.

The smartphone is under development and will hit the Indian markets on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, September 10. Although the company says that it will be a budget-friendly device, the cost is not yet out. But it will be "the most affordable smartphone not just in India, but globally," says Ambani.

JioPhone Next
Read more: Google Photos New Uploads aren't being Counted against their Quota for Some Users!

Samsung Galaxy XCover 4s gets Android 11 update with One UI 3.1

This year, Samsung promised four years of update support for all its flagships. Adhering to its words, the company is updating a 2019 launched device, Galaxy XCover 4s. The smartphone was launched with Android 9.0 (Pie) out of the box. Now, it is receiving its second major OS update with Android 11 along with One UI 3.1 on top.

Galaxy XCover 4s

Must see: Download Android 11 Wallpapers fresh out of the box

The latest software for the Galaxy XCover 4s can be identified by the firmware version G398FNXXUCCUF4. As of now, the build is limited to Poland, while the units in other regions will get similar treatment soon. Apart from the latest stable channel and skin, the package also brings the June 2021 security patch.

After flashing the update, the user will experience all-new Android 11 One UI 3.1 goodies. Android 11 brings a refreshed UI, chat bubbles, one-time permissions, smart device controls, and much more to your device. Furthermore, this along with the One UI 3.1 skin that includes improvements for Toolbars, Settings, Quick Panel, Notifications, and a lot more.

One UI 3.1

The software also brings improved Digital well-being, parental controls, Dynamic Lockscreen options, redesigned Device Care menu, improved Samsung Keyboard and Samsung Internet apps. Also, after flashing the update, the user can remove GPS location data from images while sharing them.

Also, it is to be noted that Galaxy XCover 4s was launched in 2019 with Android 9 Pie and this is the second major OS update for the device. Therefore, after this update, the phone will only receive the regular security patch levels.

The OTA update is having a phase-wise rollout in Poland. Accordingly, it may take some time to hit all the Galaxy XCover 4s units. But, as always, you can manually check for the build via Settings -> Software update -> Check for updates.
Related: Samsung sends Android 11 One UI 3.1 update to Galaxy A51 in the US

Xiaomi is rolling out stable MIUI 12.5 update to Mi Max 3 in China

Xiaomi unveiled the Mi Max 3 in July 2018 with Android 8.1 (Oreo) pre-installed. Later the device got updated to Android 10 with MIUI 12 on top. As the device has received two major OS updates, it is not eligible to grab Android 11. But, the company is still sending its latest skin MIUI 12.5 based on Android 10.

Xiaomi Mi Max 3
Must see: Download Android 11 Wallpapers fresh out of the box

The latest build for the Xiaomi Mi Max 3 is arriving on firmware version 12.5.1.0.QEDCNXM. Presently, the software is limited to China, it will make way for other regions in the upcoming weeks. FYI, this is the first smartphone to grab the MIUI 12.5 that is based on Android 10.

Concerning changes, the build adds new features and optimizations to the device. Moreover, it brings performance improvements, UI tweaks, enhanced privacy, and new animations. Refer to the official changelog below for precise details.

Changelog



  • System

    • New: Response to gestures is now instant.

    • New: With 20 times more rendering power, there are now few limits to what you can see on your screen.

    • New: With custom device model adjustments, any phone becomes faster after the upgrade.

    • Optimization: MIUI became lighter, faster, and more durable.



  • Notes

    • New: A gesture shortcut now allows you to create notes, tasks, and excerpts anywhere.

    • New: Excerpts save text, URLs, and images to Notes in a few simple taps.

    • New: Dynamic layouts make bring the typography in Notes to a new level.

    • New: Compose mind maps with complex structures.

    • New: New tools for doodling and sketching.

    • New: Press and hold a sketch to adjust the strokes automatically.





  • Xiaomi Cloud

    • New: Location information can be recorded automatically before the device powers off.




The update is currently in the ‘Stable Beta’ phase, making it available for selected users. A border rollout will follow after ensuring there are no critical bugs left. But, as always you can manually track the build by heading to Settings > About phone > System update. 
Related: Mi 11X Pro starts getting the Android 11 based MIUI 12.5 Update [Download OTA]

Nokia G20 announced in the US with a high value budget price

Nokia has goodwill since the introduction of the digital era. Starting with Windows smartphones, it entered the Android community with Nokia X2 in 2014. Presently, HMD Global is introducing a new device for the US market, Nokia G20. According to the company announcement, the smartphone will be available to grab by the end of this month.

Nokia G20
Must see: Download Android 12 wallpapers in full resolution

The main attraction of the smartphone is its powerful battery which can last up to three days as claimed by the company. Serving as a cherry on the top is the super affordable price. To know the specs and key details about the Nokia G20, keep scrolling.

Nokia G20 Specifications


Starting with the design, the Nokia G20 will feature a 6.5-inches HD+ display in a v-notch style at a ratio of 20:9. It has a Brightness boost, making the screen size more impressive. In fact, the company says, even under direct sunlight, the device will be easily and clearly visible

Nokia G20

Under the hood, Nokia G20 equips an octa-core processor based on the Mediatek G35 chipset. The device will run Android 11 out of the box coupled with 4GB RAM and 128GB of expandable internal storage. As with every device, Nokia promised two major OS updates apart from the three years of security maintenance support.

For shooting purposes, the Nokia G20 offers a quad-camera setup that includes a 48MP primary camera, a 5 MP ultrawide lens, and a couple of 2 MP shooters to measure depth and macro aspects. On the other side, the v-notch houses an 8MP snapper that serves selfies and video calls.

Nokia G20

To serve connectivity. Nokia G20 indulges dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS/AGPS, GLONASS, and Beidou. The smartphone has an ambient light sensor, Proximity sensor, Accelerometer, and Gyroscope. It relies on a 4G LTE connection and does not support the 5G connectivity.

Adding on to this, there' a side-mounted fingerprint sensor on board with a dedicated Google Assistant hardware key. Interestingly, the phone is IPX2 rated, which is not common in budget handsets. That means it is eligible to survive sweat, a little water, and dust.

Nokia G20

The most important part of a smartphone, the battery, is the main attraction for the Nokia G20. It ships with a 5050 mAh power cell that can last up to three days as claimed by the company. Further, the device has a 10W of charging support over a USB type C port. Accompanying the port is the 3.5mm audio jack that enables the FM Radio.

Availability and Price


Nokia G20 will arrive in two color variants of dark blue and white Glacier. The phone will go on sale via the official Nokia website from 1st July. With all these above-stated features, it is one of the best-priced smartphones for $199, roughly about INR 15,000.
Related: Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite and Tab S7 FE launched in India

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 arrives on FCC with 5G support

Samsung is ready to hit the market with its new Galaxy-M, Galaxy-A, and Galaxy Tab flagships. But, the most exciting products are the new foldable, Galaxy Z Flip 3, and Galaxy Z Fold 3. From the most anticipated device of this year, Galaxy Z Flip 3 has arrived on FCC with 5G support.

Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 2
Must see: Samsung Cloud v4.7.01.2 update now available for download

The arrival of the Galaxy Z Flip 3 on FCC reveals that it will come with 5G support. The foldable will have the model number SM-F711U or SM-F711U1 depending upon the region. Though the official key specs are not yet out, we do have some render leaks and rumors with us.

Galaxy Z Flip 3

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G will be the successor of Galaxy Z Fold 2, which was launched the last ear in September. Talking about the design, the company is planning to slim down its foldable series to make them easier to use. Therefore, both of the upcoming foldable will probably arrive with a slimmer and light design.

Moreover, they are likely to carry an LTPO screen with under-display cameras (UDC). The Galaxy Z Fold 3 will be the first Samsung foldable to feature the S Pen to improve its versatility. If this stands true, this will be a hybrid between the S Pen found on the Galaxy S21 Ultra and the Note 20 series.

Galaxy Z Flip 3

In addition to the main panel, Galaxy Z Fold 3 is likely to flaunt a 7.55-inch display. A dual battery capacity of 4,380 mAh will probably back up the device. Also, some leaks suggest that the phone will have Android 11 OS on board paired with 128GB and 256GB of storage variants.

In the shooting section, the smartphone may equip a triple rear camera consisting of two 12MP and a 16MP snapper. While the front could house a 16MP shooter on the main display and a 12MP lens on the cover display.

Galaxy Z Flip 3

This is all we have in our hands right now about the Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G. Stay tuned for more updates. Although, the device was expected to launch in July but now that it has grabbed the FCC certification, will hopefully arrive by August 2021.
Related: Four Samsung devices receive Google's ARCore Certification

Galaxy Tab A 10.1 (2019) starts getting the Android 11 update

Weeks after the rollout of the Android 11 update to the Galaxy Tab A 8.0, Samsung has now begun sending the Android 11-based One UI 3.1 update to the Galaxy Tab A 10.1 (2019) tablet. The new update carries the build version T515XXU8CUF2, and currently, the users from Vietnam have begun receiving it.

Galaxy Tab A 10.1
Related: Mi 11X Pro starts getting the Android 11 based MIUI 12.5 Update.

What's New?


Similar to the other Android 11 updates, it also incorporates a couple of new features, June 2021 Security Patch, One UI 3.1 Skin, optimizations, improvements, enhancements, features of Android 11 and One UI 3.1, and a few more changes to the system.

The new update brings enhancements and adds new features for the Home screen and Lock screen, Calls and chats, Pictures and Videos, Settings, Samsung keyboards, Productivity, Easy media and device control, etc. With this new firmware, you will be able to Identify and improve your digital habits, and it brings accessibility features for everyone, adds Stronger privacy protection.

Apart from this, the firmware also adds a couple of changes and new add-ons for Calendar, Camera, Display, Share Sheet, Social Platform, etc. Now, your Galaxy Tab will support Buds auto-switching between Galaxy phone & tablet, and you can also hear the time and preset name of the alarm read aloud when an alarm rings in Clock.

Like the other Android 11 updates, it should also include new features like Conversation notifications, Notification history, Chat bubbles, screen recorder, Media controls, Smart device controls, and much more.

In terms of availability, as always, the OTA firmware is following the phase-wise rollout, and hence, users need to wait for a few more days to get the update. Alternatively, the update can also be checked manually from Settings>Software updates and check for the updates.

Galaxy Tab A 10.1 (2019) Specifications



  • 10.1-inch TFT display with 1200 x 1920 pixels resolution

  • Exynos 7904 (14 nm) Chipset

  • 2/3GB RAM and a 16/32/64/128GB internal storage

  • 8-MP rear camera and a 5-MP selfie camera

  • Android 9.0 (Pie)

  • 6,150 mAh battery


(Via)
Must See: Unknown Oppo CPH9771X smartphone arrives at FCC with 5,000 mAh battery.

Mi 11X Pro starts getting the Android 11 based MIUI 12.5 Update [Download OTA]

A few hours earlier, Xiaomi has sput the MIUI 12.5 Update for the Mi 9 Pro 5G in China. Presently, the brand has begun rolling out a similar (MIUI 12.5) update to the Mi 11X Pro smartphone users. The update holds the firmware version V12.5.1.0.RKKINXM and is currently spinning out only in the Indian markets.

Xiaomi Mi 11X
Must See: Unknown Oppo CPH9771X smartphone arrives at FCC with 5,000 mAh battery.

What's New?


According to the changelog, the firmware for the Mi 11X Pro dispatches with a couple of new add-ons, changes, optimizations, and it might also include fixes for known issues.

If we go ahead with the changelog, the MIUI 12.5 update adds new features like instant gestures Response; Excerpts save text, URLs, and images to Notes in a few simple taps, Dynamic layouts, 20 times more rendering power, Compose mind maps with complex structures, and much more. It also brings a new add-on in Xiaomi Cloud through which location info can be now reported automatically before the device is powered off.

Besides these, the update brings optimizations and adds the June 2021 Security Patch. In addition, the MIUI has become lighter, faster, and more durable. For precise information, we have added the limited changelog below.

Changelog



[System]
New: With custom device model adjustments, any phone becomes faster after the upgrade.
New: Response to gestures is now instant.
New: With 20 times more rendering power, there are now few limits to what you can see on your screen.
Optimization: MIUI became lighter, faster, and more durable.
Updated Android Security Patch to June 2021. Increased system security.
[Notes]
New: Compose mind maps with complex structures.
New: New tools for doodling and sketching.
New: Press and hold a sketch to adjust the strokes automatically.
New: A gesture shortcut now allows you to create notes, tasks, and excerpts anywhere.
New: Excerpts save text, URLs, and images to Notes in a few simple taps.
New: Dynamic layouts bring the typography in Notes to a new level.
All-new Notes.


As always, the OTA update is turning out in a phased manner, and hence, the users need to be patient for the next few days to get the update. In the meanwhile, the Mi 11X Pro users from India can make a straightforward way to Settings>Software updates and check for the updates. Furthermore, you can also follow below to download and flash the update file manually.

Downloads



  • Device: Mi 11X Pro

  • Channel: Stable

  • Region: India

  • Android: 11

  • Security Patch Level: June 2021

  • Version: MIUI 12.5

  • Build: V12.5.1.0.RKKINXM

  • File type: Recovery

  • Download Now


Note: Don't prefer this method if you don't know how to flash the update manually.
Related: Realme Narzo 30A & Narzo 30 Pro gets Android 11 based Realme UI 2.0 early access.