Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 starts getting new software update with enhancements

At the end of May, the Galaxy Watch3 and Watch Active2 have received new updates at the same time. Later in June, the Galaxy Watch 3 users have secured a new update. Unfortunately, there was no update for the Watch Active 2 last month. However, the Galaxy Watch Active2 users have now begun getting a new update on the build number R825FXXU1CUE3.


Must See: Asus ZenFone 8 Flip new update arrives with May 2021 security patch.

At the moment, the firmware is taking place only in Germany, and we can expect a broader release shortly. Concerning the changelog/release note, the firmware is specially rolled out only to enhance some icons.

It enhances the auto walking/running icons and the 'Inactive Alert' icon. Besides these, the update also loads with improvements for device stability. The current firmware is based on Tizen 5.5.0.2.

Galaxy Watch Active 2 update

If the Galaxy Active 2 Germany users are connected to a smartwatch (via wearable app), they will receive a notification automatically when the update arrives on their device. The update can also be checked physically by heading over to the Wearable application's software updates section. Make sure to connect your Galaxy Watch to any smartphone via the Wearable app before doing this step.

(Via)
UP Next: Firefox 90 launched with a bundle of improvements for desktop and Android.

Asus ZenFone 8 Flip new update arrives with May 2021 security patch

Asus is leaving no stone unturned to keep it's recently launched ZenFone 8 series up to date. So far, smartphones have received several updates that bought new additions, fixes, and optimizations. Now again, ZenFone 8 Flip is receiving a new software update that brings the May 2021 security maintenance and more.

ZenFone 8 Flip
Make sure to visit: New Global Mi Store App V3.23.0 update enhances security and privacy [Download]

Asus ZenFone 8 Flip is tagged as “ordinary to excel in everything”. The device’s main attraction is its innovative flip snapper that gives professional-quality pictures. The latest update for the Asus ZenFone 8 Flip is rolling out in several regions. The fresh build is rolling out to model number ZS672KS via firmware version RU_30.11.55.66.

The new build furthermore enhances the camera quality. Talking about more changes, the package adds the AOC ‘Tap to show’ function along with optimizations in the system stability. But mainly, it emphasizes stabilizing the network and call aspects. Take a look at the entire changelog below for precise details.

Changelog



  • Added AOD ‘Tap to show’ function

  • Improved the thermals for phone calls during suspend

  • Updated Android security patch to 2021-05-05

  • Optimized system stability

  • Improved camera quality

  • Enabled VoLTE & VoWiFi on Vodafone & Deutsche Telekom (Netherlands)

  • Enabled VoLTE & VoWiFi on Deutsche Telekom (Hungary)

  • Enabled VoLTE on Vodafone (Ireland)

  • Enabled VoWiFi on MTS (Russia)


As always, the OTA build is rolling out in a staged manner. Therefore, it may take more time to hit every unit in respective regions. If you have a ZenFone 8 Flip, you will receive a pop-up notification in a short while. Alternatively, you can also flash the firmware manually by heading to Settings > System > System updates > Download and install.
Read more: Asus will commence the Android 12 Beta update program once Google releases Stable build

Firefox 90 launched with a bundle of improvements for desktop and Android

Unlike other browsers, Firefox uses its own rendering engine. Accordingly, Mozilla has the power to try new improvements and changes. Also, the search engine is becoming faster with each update as it is rewritten in the Rust programming language. Mozilla is now rolling out a new version of the browser, Firefox 90 for Android and desktop that brings a bundle of improvements.

Firefox 90

Must see: Google Chrome 92 Beta is now available to download

Talking about the desktop version, Firefox 90 now allows the user to save, manage, and auto-fill credit card information. Though, the introduction of this feature is already late as it is available in other browsers like Chrome and Safari for several years. Along with this, Firefox 90 has removed the FTP support from the browser, that Chrome did the last year.

Moreover, the new version adds Quantum Render aka WebRender, which is the faster page compositor written in Rust. FYI, WebRender as well is already available on all Android handsets except for Chromebook devices. However, the language is only limited to the devices that equip PowerVR and Adreno 4 graphics like Snapdragon 808 and Snapdragon 415, etc. Here is the precise changelog for desktop and Android.

Desktop Changelog



  • On Windows, updates can now be applied in the background while Firefox is not running.

  • Firefox for Windows now offers a new page about third-party to help identify compatibility issues caused by third-party applications

  • Exceptions to HTTPS-Only mode can be managed in about: preferences#privacy

  • Print to PDF now produces working hyperlinks

  • The “Open Image in New Tab” context menu item now opens images and media in a background tab by default

  • Most users without hardware-accelerated WebRender will now be using software WebRender.

  • Improved software WebRender performance

  • FTP support has been removed

  • Version 2 of Firefox’s SmartBlock feature further improves private browsing. Third-party Facebook scripts are blocked to prevent you from being tracked but are now automatically loaded “just in time” if you decide to “Log in with Facebook” on any website.

  • Support for Private Fields (TC39 proposal, stage 3) is available in DevTools. The support includes: object inspection, autocompletion, expression evaluation, variable tooltips, and pretty-printing (bug)

  • Support for Fetch Metadata Request Headers, which allows web applications to better protect themselves and their users against various cross-origin threats.

  • Added the ability to use client authentication certificates stored in hardware tokens or Operating System storage.

  • The Network panel shows a preview of HTTP requests for fonts in the Response tab (bug)

  • Various security fixes


Android Changelog



  • Firefox can now save, manage, and auto-fill credit card information for you, making shopping on Firefox more convenient.

  • Back/Forward Cache (aka BFCache) is now enabled for webpages that use unload event listeners, making the back and forward navigations faster on these pages.

  • Users that need to import user Android certificates can do so through the secret settings

  • Various stability and security fixes


Flash the desktop version of Firefox 90 from the official browser's website. While the Android version can be downloaded directly through Play Store.



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

Xiaomi Redmi 10 key specs revealed through different online certifications

Xiaomi is planning to refresh its Redmi 10 series by introducing a new smartphone around October 2021. However, the official confirmation is still awaited. Meanwhile, Redmi 10 series have surfaced on a couple of online certifications including IMEI and FCC. The listing on these websites reveals some key specifications. Keep scrolling to know what Redmi 10 has stored for us!

Redmi 10
Must see: How to download Android Nougat update to your Xiaomi Redmi Note 4

The arrival at the IMEI database reveals the model number and moniker of the Redmi 10. The smartphone carries the model number 21061119AG as per the IMEI database. Also, a smartphone was spotted at the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website with model number 21061119BI. This handset may be a part of the Redmi 10 series that could debut in India soon.

Redmi 10

On the other hand, the FCC listing confirms the presence of the latest skin and the storage configuration available. According to the documentation, Redmi 10 will have its latest skin, MIUI 12.5 on board. With this level, it is likely to have Android 11 out of the box. Moreover, the device will be available in three storage variants i.e; 4GB + 64GB, 4GB + 128GB and 6GB + 128GB. Further, the device supports various Wi-Fi and LTE bands.

Redmi 10

The Redmi 10 series is likely to debut within the next couple of months in India. As of now, this is all the information we have in our hands about the Redmi 10 lineup. The company will probably soon make an official announcement regarding the launch of the device. We will make sure to make you updated with any further details.

Redmi 10
Read more: Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite EU and Global variant grabs MIUI 12.5.3 update

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

Google Lens latest update enables users to analyze photos from gallery

Google is cultivating a new update for its dedicated Lens app on Android. Flashing the new build will bring a refreshed user interface. More importantly, now the app focuses on itself. The new update emphasizes the live viewfinder i.e; the ability to read existing pictures and screenshots from the device's gallery.

google lens
Make sure to visit: Download Soloop v1.32.1 Video Editor for your Smartphone

The fresh feature can be accessed from both the live preview analyzer and directly through the in-built lens in the default camera app. At the top third of the new screen, you can see a “Search with your camera” option that shows a live preview. Alternatively, in the case of an older UI, the option is displayed at the bottom right corner that shows a preview of the camera roll pictures.

Google Lens

Afterwards, a 4x2 page is opened that displays recent “Screenshots” alongside the “View all” option in the top-right corner. Tapping the later one opens a full-page grid of captures. Whereas the “All images” section has all the endless collection stored in your smartphone.

Google Lens

Introducing the screenshot analyzing feature on Google Lens will enable the user to do all tasks in the same place, making it more convenient. Keep in note that this is a server-side update so it may take a while to reach out to all the users.

Earlier this year, Google Photos and Google Lens AI were integrated. This step enabled the user to copy, search, hear, or translate text from images. In fact, the user can also select some text parts from the image and use them for translation and search purposes. To know more about this, visit our dedicated article.
Read more: Google Drive for desktop app will replace Backup and Sync option

[Update: June 2021 Security Patch] Redmi 9C Update Tracker

Last year in June, Xiaomi announced the Redmi C9 smartphone featuring a 6.53-inch IPS LCD. Under the hood, it is powered by an Octa-core processor-based MediaTek Helio G35 SoC. The smartphone ships with Android 10, MIUI 12 out of the box paired with up to 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage. Redmi C9 equips a triple-camera module at the rear with a 13MP primary sensor and a 5MP snapper for selfies.

Redmi 9C

Must see: Download Android 12 wallpapers in full resolution


Note: We will keep this post updated with the latest updated information regarding the Redmi C9 smartphone updates.

Redmi 9C Update Tracker



  • [July 7, 2021]: Xiaomi is sending a stable software update to the Redmi C9 smartphone. Arriving on the firmware version V12.0.15.0.QCRMIXM, the build carries the June 2021 security patch for global variants of the device.  This is a minor bump in safety level and does not bring any new additions. Though, internally the update focuses to improve system security. Moreover, it addresses several bugs and different levels of CVEs.


Like all the other updates, this as well is rolling out in a phase-wise manner. Accordingly, the users may have to wait a while to get the build. You can also check the update status manually by heading over to Settings > Software updates > Check for the updates. We also suggest you switch over to a WiFi network to avoid carrier data charges.
Related: [Update: Fix for Audio Echoing issue] Realme 5, 5i, and 5s Updates Tracker

Xiaomi Mi 8 SE is receiving the latest MIUI 12.5 update

The Xiaomi Mi 8 SE was launched three years back 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 cultivating its latest skin MIUI 12.5 to the smartphone.


Must see: Best MIUI 12.5 features that you would love to enjoy!

The latest stable build for the Xiaomi Mi 8 SE is arriving on firmware version V12.5.1.0.QEBCNXM. As of now, the software is limited to China, while the variants in other regions will get similar treatment soon.

After flashing the update, the user will experience several UI tweaks, enhanced performance, new animations and system sounds, a bunch of privacy features with the May 2021 security patch, an updated Notes app, and much more. Also, Xiaomi has released a quite lengthy changelog for the package.

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.

    • Android security patch updated to May 2021. Increased system security.



  • System animations

    • New: A new animation framework renders movement more realistic.

    • New: New UI design focuses on visualization and making your interaction with the device more realistic



  • System sounds

    • New: Nature mix is a new exciting way of creating your own notification sound system.

    • New: Hundreds of system sounds that represent animals from all around the world.

    • New: Sound from the stereo system.



  • Privacy Protection

    • New: Now you can see what apps access your clipboard and control access.

    • New: Using approximate location adds up points to privacy protection.

    • New: You can now manage sensitive permissions and related app behavior independently.

    • New: The behavior of web pages is also tracked now, which helps you to block unwanted and malicious actions.

    • New: Now it’s up to you who and when can track your online behavior.

    • New: All apps now come with a security statement from GetApps.

    • New: Privacy risk scanner.

    • New: Control which apps access and delete items from your Gallery.

    • New: A comprehensive overview of all sensitive permissions.

    • New: You’ll be notified whenever high-risk permissions are used and will be able to block the corresponding actions.

    • Optimization: An all-new privacy protection page.



  • 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 make bring the typography in Notes to a new level.

    • Brand New Notes



  • MIUI+

    • You can combine your phone and computer in a single workstation.

    • You can view MIUI notifications and open phone apps on your computer.

    • Applications from your phone can be transferred to your computer.

    • Items copied to a phone can now be pasted to the computer and vice versa.

    • Photos and screenshots from a mobile device can be instantly used on a computer.

    • Web pages can be seamlessly transferred from one device to another.

    • You can transfer files to your mobile device using the “MIUI +” panel on your computer.

    • New “File Manager” and “Notes” for computers.



  • Floating Windows

    • New: instant messengers now support floating windows.

    • New: Floating windows can be quickly replaced with full-screen versions of applications.

    • New: Application Cards Show key information when applications are displayed as floating windows.



  • Xiaomi Health

    • New: You can now measure your heart rate with the camera.

    • New: Start manually recording running, walking, and cycling workouts, and enjoy many exercise classes online.

    • Optimization: Automatic training recognition is much more accurate now.



  • Xiaomi Cloud

    • New: Convert images to PDF.

    • New: Password manager allows you to store passwords in the cloud.

    • New: You can share the device location with other people in your family sharing group.

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



  • Others

    • New: a more convenient way to move a cursor using the scroll bar.

    • New: Function buttons allow switching between languages ​​and keyboards.

    • New: You can press and hold the function buttons to access more functions.

    • New: Custom keyboard themes.

    • New: font-weight adjustment options for third-party fonts.

    • Optimization: customization features for system wallpapers, animations, and sounds.




Keep in the note, the build is currently in a stable beta phase. While a wider rollout will follow afterward.
Related: Xiaomi sends MIUI 12.5 stable update to Redmi Note 7 Pro

Galaxy Z Fold 3 to support Samsung's S Pen Pro as per FCC filing

The most anticipated smartphones by Samsung this year are Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3. So far, numerous rumors and assumptions have been made about the device. But now, it seems that we are close to the official announcement as the duo has surfaced on several online certifications including FCC and TENAA. Also, the present FCC filing of the Z Fold 3 reveals the support of Samsung's S Pen Pro.

Galaxy Z Fold 3

Must see: How to download and install Samsung Galaxy S7 drivers

The FCC listing discloses the model number SM-F926U for the Galaxy Z Fold 3. As we reported earlier, the device comprises the S Pen capabilities. Furthermore, the arrival divulges that the digitizer required for the S Pen to operate is in-built in the device. Alongside the new functionality, the smartphone will arrive with 5G connectivity, NFC, wireless charging, and Wi-Fi 6e.

The other official specifications of the Galaxy Fold 3 are a 6.2-inch outer display and a 7.55-inch foldable inner display. The smartphone will run the latest stable channel, Android 11 out of the box with One UI 3.1 on top. A dual power cell of 2155 mAh and 2345 mAh will back up the device making it a total of 4500 mAh battery.

Under the hood, Snapdragon 888 SoC is likely to power the device paired with up to 512GB of memory configuration. Also, Fold 3 may equip a 12MP rear triple camera setup and a 16MP UDC for selfies. If this stands true, the device will be the first foldable with an under-display camera. The devices will replace the Galaxy Note's spot and are expected to launch at the Unpacked 2021 event in August.
Read more: Samsung Keyboard receiving a new update with firmware v5.2.60.0

Google Drive for desktop app will replace Backup and Sync option

As planned by Google, the company has started to roll out Google Drive as a desktop app. As per the giant, the desktop app will provide a "consistent experience" for any drive user. Reportedly, along with the Drive app for business, Google Drive for desktop app will soon replace the Backup and Sync app for regular users as well.

Google Drive

Make sure to visit: Download the latest wallpapers by Google Chrome OS here

Google is encouraging users to update the typical Google Drive File Stream to Google Drive for Desktop. Presently, you can have access to the Backup and Sync app as it still operates separately. However, it will stop working from October 1 this year. Meanwhile, Google will try to extend the reach of the new Drive app. From August 18 to October, the users will start receiving the in-app notifications to make a switch.
"Earlier this year, we announced that we were working towards unifying our two existing Google Drive sync clients – Backup and Sync and Drive File Stream – into a single sync client called Drive for desktop. By doing this, we're creating a powerful and unified sync client with the best and most used features from both Backup and Sync and Drive File Stream," says Google Workspace Team.

In short, the Google Drive for desktop app will combine the experience of two different apps. Moreover, Google will also introduce an automatic file syncing feature that will enable the user to access important files offline, that too without downloading them.

Earlier this month, Google decided to add two imperative features for the Google Drive for desktop app i.e; Google Photos upload and Multi-Account switching. To know the precise details about this update, visit our dedicated page.
Read more: Google to launch a Health App that combines all medical records