Redmi Note 9 Pro Max is receiving Android 11 update in India

Last year, Xiaomi added the Redmi Note 9 Pro Max to its Note 9 series. The device debuted with Android 10 based MIUI 12 as the first-ever Redmi Note Pro Max model. Following the update schedule, the Pro Max variant is also joining the Redmi Note 9 for the Android 11 update party.

Make sure to visit: Best custom ROMs for Redmi Note 10

For those unaware, the Redmi Note 9 Pro Max is only limited to India, so is the software. The latest build arrives on firmware version V12.0.1.0.RJXINXM. Also, keep in not that the build only brings Android 11, not the accompanied skin, MIUI 12.5.

Talking about changes, the company has not yet released the official changelog for the update. However, the package will bring all the Android 11 features to the device such as revamped UI, enhanced dark theme mode, in-build screen recorder, smart media control, lock screen conversations, one-time permissions, chat bubbles, and other improvements or customizations.

Now that the smartphone has grabbed the Android 11 OS, it should soon get MIUI 12.5 as well. FYI, Redmi Note 9 Pro Max has only received a single major OS and skin update since launch. And as per Xiaomi's policy, the device is eligible to grab Android 12 and MIUI 13 in the future.

Also, the software is currently under the stable beta phase, which means it will initially roll out to selective units. After assuring that there are no critical bugs, the company will push a border rollout.

Read more: Redmi Note 8 (2021) spotted on FCC with Helio G85 processor

Read more »

Google Drive for desktop gets Google Photos upload & Multi-Account switching

This year, Google decided to transform the typical Google Drive File Stream to Google Drive for Desktop. This allows the user to seamlessly transfer files between PC and Drive storage. Now, the tech giant has decided to enhance it further by adding two imperative features i.e; Google Photos upload and Multi-Account switching.

Must see: [Download] Firefox 89 arrives on Android with a new interface

The new features are a part of updated version 49.0.8.0 of Google Drive. After flashing the update, the user will get support for multi-account login. That implies the user can log in up to four accounts and can access files from any of them, without signing out from the current one. Along with this, there's also a ‘Mirror files’ option in the settings. As before, this enables the user to store files locally.



Moreover, the update also adds support for Google Photos. This means you can now finally connect your pictures directly through Drive. FYI, Google Photos and Google Drive were already merged before but the company decided to separate them, you could still access them via web browser though. The update finally returns the much-awaited feature!



Once updated, Google has a guide for the users to set their preferences:

• Safely store all your files: Choose folders on your computer to sync with Google Drive, back up to Google Photos, or both


• Access Google Drive from your computer: Stream or mirror files and folders from Google Drive to your computer


• Use more than one account, without having to switch: Connect and access files from four Google accounts at the same time

Keep in note that the Drive for Desktop version 49 is currently limited to certain users. A border update is expected to unfurl by next week. Do check if you're the lucky one to get the update, if yes, don't forget to let us know about more exciting features in the comment box.

Related: Google has started to display Progress Bar for System Updates

Read more »

OnePlus decides to unify OxygenOS with Oppo’s ColorOS

Last month, OnePlus announced its new journey with Oppo. Both the companies decided to integrate to work together as a brand. This alliance is further getting stronger has now. OnePlus publicized that it is also planning to unify its customized skin with the one of Oppo. That means OxygenOS is merging with Oppo’s ColorOS operating system.

Must see: Download ColorOS System Launcher V11.1.00 for Oppo devices

The news was made official via a forum post, where OnePlus said, “working on integrating the codebase of OxygenOS and ColorOS.” This means the software will remain separate for global units, though on a common database. Whereas they will continue to serve the home country together.

According to OnePlus, the merger will "standardize the software experience and streamline process all coming together to improve the OxygenOS experience." Precisely, the alliance guarantees better Android update support. In fact, OnePlus promised to deliver 3 years of update support to its flagships. Here's the new schedule for OnePlus devices:

• The newer devices from the OnePlus 8 lineup and flagship phones including T & R will get three major Android updates and four years of security updates.


• From the first OnePlus Nord to the newer Nord or Nord CE, all will receive two major Android updates and three years of security updates.


• The entire Nord N series are eligible to grab one major Android update and three years of security updates.

OnePlus is committing some good news about the newer flagships, the plan is identical to Samsung. However, other ranges of products seem to be less fortunate. Also, OnePlus did not mention the time duration between the two updates. Let's see what changes the users will experience after the fusion of two companies.

Read more: OnePlus Nord 2 5G arrives at AI Benchmark site with Dimensity 1200

Read more »

Vivo is reportedly working on a smartphone with a detachable flying camera

We are already familiar with flying drone cameras. Vivo is taking it to another level by introducing it on a smartphone. Yes, you read it right, a new patent from the company reveals that it might be working to launch a smartphone with a detachable camera module, which will be able to fly like a drone.

Make sure to visit: List of Vivo Smartphones to receive Funtouch OS 11

Reportedly, Vivo filed for a patent with WIPO last year. According to the patent images, it looks like the smartphone carries a regular design. However, there's one unique feature making it different from every other handset available. It is a detachable flying camera that pops out from the bottom of the device. This indicates that the camera is not a separate device but is housed in the smartphone.

As a normal drone, this as well represents four propellers, making it capable to fly. Moreover, the camera will pack a separate battery apart from the main power cell of the smartphone. From the referred images, the camera features dual-lens. Additionally, two infrared sensors can also be noticed on different sides of the module. Though these sensors could support various functions, their main aim will be to protect the drone from other objects during a flight.



This could also mean that the camera will follow the user automatically when flying. Also, it might support air gestures, we're not sure though. To mention, Vivo has not officially revealed anything about such a device and it's still not sure if the company is actually working on a smartphone with a detachable flying camera.

Read more: Vivo announces a 6GB RAM variant of Vivo Y51A in India

Read more »

List of smartphones to get Android 12 based ColorOS 12

Every OEM has its own customized skin which tweaks the current Android version with some more features and customizations. Where Android 12 is on the way, the smartphone manufacturers are almost ready with their next skin level. So is the case with the BBK-owned company, Oppo. The company runs the ColorOS custom version on their devices.

Must see: Download ColorOS System Launcher V11.1.00 for Oppo devices

Currently, Oppo devices running on Android 11 use ColorOS 11 skin. ColorOS 11 brings a refresh UI, new themes, AOD mode, new animation, enhancements in system operations, new gestures, improved battery performance, and much more.

Reportedly, ColorOS 12 Beta 4 will roll out in August while the official release will happen around September or October. The upcoming skin is being quoted as the "Best custom version of Oppo" in China due to its extensive and advanced features. Let's take a glimpse of them.

ColorOS 12 Features

• Visual overhaul and color extraction


• New Android 12 Quick Tiles


• Privacy and security improvements


• Notification improvements


• Easier Wi-Fi sharing


• One-handed mode


• Quick Tap


• Haptic-coupled audio effect


• New widgets


• Native Scrolling Screenshot


• New App Pairs feature for Split-Screen Multitasking


• Access Google Assistant through the power button


• New Quick Settings buttons


• Major optimizations for tablet

Along with these features, Oppo has also listed a bundle of devices that are eligible to grab ColorOS 12 based on Android 12. Look for your device in the list below.

Android 12 ColorOS 12 Device List

• OPPO Reno 6


• OPPO Reno 6 Pro


• Oppo Reno5 5G


• Oppo Reno5 4G


• Oppo Reno5 Pro+ 5G


• Oppo Reno5 Pro


• Oppo Reno5 Lite


• Oppo Reno5 F


• Oppo Reno3 Pro


• Oppo Reno3


• Oppo Reno3 Pro 5G


• Oppo Reno3 5G


• Oppo Reno3 Youth


• Oppo Reno4 5G


• Oppo Reno4 Lite


• Oppo Reno4 Pro


• Oppo Reno4 F


• Oppo Reno4 Z 5G


• OPPO Find X3 Pro


• Oppo Find X3 Lite


• Oppo Find X2


• Oppo Find X2 Neo


• Oppo Find X2 Lite


• Oppo Find X2 Pro

 

• Oppo K7 5G


• Oppo K7x


• Oppo A55 5G


• Oppo A93 5G


• Oppo A53 5G


• Oppo A73 5G


• Oppo A15


• Oppo A53s


• Oppo A73


• Oppo A73 5G


• Oppo A93


• Oppo A33


• Oppo A32


• Oppo F19 Pro+ 5G


• Oppo F19 Pro


• Oppo F19


• Oppo F17


• Oppo F17 Pro


• Oppo A53


• Oppo A72 5G


• Oppo A92


• Oppo A92s


• Oppo A72


• Oppo A52

Related: List of smartphones getting Android 12 Public Beta

Read more »

WhatsApp can enable users to send videos in different qualities

The use of the instant messaging platform, WhatsApp is growing faster than other social media apps. It has become the most popular method of interaction, be it chatting, video calling, or share files and documents. However, it still lacks some features. But, the company is trying to cover it up. Reportedly, WhatsApp can finally allow the users to share videos in different qualities as per preferences.

Make sure to visit: Download Fouad WhatsApp v8.65 APK: Features and How to Install [APK]

Though we can share any type of file on WhatsApp, the app automatically compresses the quality of the file while sharing. However, there is a way to maintain the original quality by sending the file as a document. The scenario may soon be changed as the Facebook-owned company has come up with a solution.

The feature is spotted in WhatsApp Beta for Android v2.21.14.6 by the name of ‘Video upload quality.' The option displays three options to choose from — Auto (recommended), Best Quality, and Data saver.



As mentioned, the feature is currently in the Beta stage under development. Thus, it is available for users who are operating the app on v2.21.14.6. It will hopefully make way for all the users in the coming weeks.

Furthermore, WhatsApp is also testing some much-awaited features like multi-device support, disappearing mode, view once, and more. The company has also provided a timeline of around 1-2 months for these features to arrive. To know more details about these features, head here.

Read more: India asks WhatsApp to withdraw its controversial privacy policy

Read more »

Realme 7 grabs Android 11 based Realme UI 2.0 stable update

Last year in December, Realme started to test the stability of Android 11-based Realme UI 2.0 on some of its flagships, including Realme 7. After ensuring successful functioning, the package has now started to hit the Realme 7 units in India. The device was launched in September 2020 with Android 10 based Realme UI.

Must see: Download the latest Game Space 4.5.0 for your Realme smartphones

The latest software for the Realme 7 is unfurling in India on firmware version RMX2151_11_C.08. Along with the Android 11 and Realme UI 2.0 features, the package inculcates the June 2021 security patch to the device.

The fresh build will endorse all the Android 11 based Realme UI 2.0 goodies to the Realme 7. The update will bring new additions like System Cloner, Quick Return Bubble, Enhanced Dark Mode, New App Drawer, Third-party Icon Support, Redesigned Notification Panel, Revamped Always-On display, Improved Game Space, and more.

Moreover, the update makes numerous changes to the performance and user experience by introducing chat bubbles, native screen recorder, one-time permissions, smart device controls, and much more. Apart from these, Realme has also issued an official changelog which brings certain fixes optimizations to the device.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Android security patch: May and June 2021
  
  
  
  


• Camera
  
  
  
  • Fixed probabilistic screen flash issue in camera's portrait mode
  
  
  • Fixed probabilistic issue of unable to focus
  
  
  
  


• Call
  
  
  
  • Fixed probabilistic noise issue when calling
  
  
  
  


• Third-party
  
  
  
  • Fixed probabilistic screen flash issue when video calling on WhatsApp
  
  
  
  


• System
  
  
  
  • Optimized performance of the system, improve its stability
  
  
  
  

Realme will push this update randomly to a limited number of users to ensure its stability. A broader rollout will follow soon in the coming days after ensuring there are no critical bugs.

Related: Realme X2 Pro is grabbing Android 11 based Realme UI 2.0 stable update

Read more »

Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) launched officially

Battlegrounds Mobile India was announced in the country last month. Krafton, the developers of BGMI has now officially released the final version much-awaited gaming app for Indian users. Android users can install the app via Google Play Store, whereas the users on iOS might have to wait a few more days. Here are some more details about the hyped gaming application.

Must see: Download Soloop v1.32.1 Video Editor for your Smartphone

The final version of the BGMI is released today, though the early access was available to download in May. The Pre-registered players can simply flash the update that weighs 137MB from the Play Store to grab the official version. On the other hand, the rest of the users can download the final version from the Play Store that weighs 731MB in size.

Moreover, developers have announced a bunch of in-game events to pump the release of BGMI. The span of getting the “India ka Battlegrounds” gift is extended to August 19. This will present you with a permanent purple outfit for free. So is the case with 1 million and 5 million downloads, which will reward with supply crate coupons on sign-up.

Furthermore, when the downloads hit 10 million, players can collect a Constable Set after the official opening until August 19. Krafton will announce more such events like Weekend Vibes, Celebration Time, Friends for Life, etc in the coming days.

Keep in note that there are also some requirements to download the Battlegrounds Mobile India app. The player needs to be on a device running Android 5.1.1 or above paired with at least 2GB of RAM.

Read more: Download the latest Game Space 4.5.0 for your Realme smartphones

Read more »

Google has started to display Progress Bar for System Updates

Google has finally come up with a solution for the overlong and draggy process of system updates. The software giant has released a new update for the Google Play system which has made the process a piece of piss. You can now see a progress bar that will display the headway of an OTA update.

Make sure to visit: Google Chrome 92 Beta is now available to download

Whenever an OTA reaches a device, there's always a pop-up notification that says to restart the phone to ensure the processed update. With the update in the Google Play system, you will already have a track of progress, and the system will be free from any such task.

To be more precise, a small progress bar can be seen under the Google logo animation. Just like we update an app, this progression is also displayed in percentage. People using the Android 12 Beta have experienced this new feature.

The update may look like a minor bump but there's more to it. In the case of major software, the update can take a long time that drains the user. Displaying a '%' progress gives users support to estimate the time duration, meanwhile, they can sit back and relax!

FYI, it is Project Mainline that updates are released directly via OTA. Earlier, the update used to go through various channels before actually hitting the device. The entities were chip OEMs, device OEMs, carriers, and finally the handsets.

With the introduction of Mainline with Android 10, the fragmentation was reduced. It separates some firmware components into their own software modules. That means Google can send the update directly to the devices if the firmware has no relation with the processor or OEM.

Read more: Google to launch a Health App that combines all medical records 

Read more »