Best Features of Android 12 Beta 3

Talking about the biggest visual overhaul in years, Google announced that the stable version of Android 12 will be available later this year. The tech giant has surprised the beta users again with the third beta of the upcoming Android version. Android 12 Beta 3 carries whole new features and changes to your device. Keep scrolling to know about the exciting changes the upgrade will bring.

Must see: Best Android 12 features: Secure, Private, and Personal

Android 12 Beta 3 arrives with a bundle of changes for developers that offers a seamless experience. Moreover, it adds a bunch of new features such as scrolling screenshots, revamp set up experience, themed icons, and a lot more. As usual, the beta is limited to Pixel phones as of now

Android 12 Beta 3 Features

• 
  

  Scrolling screenshots

  
  

Scrolling screenshots will be the most rousing feature in Android 12 Beta 3. Unlike before, this feature will enable the user to take a scrollable screenshot of the screen. This means that the users do not have a capture different screenshots and put them together.

While taking a scrollable screenshot in Android 12 Beta 3, the user will see a “capture more” button in the screenshot preview. Tapping on this button will extend the screenshot to show the entire screen that could also be cropped. Though the capture more button will replace the share and edit options from the preview.

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  Better and faster auto-rotate

  
  

The auto-rotate screen feature has been enhanced in Beta 3. The animation and redrawing of the screen are optimized. Plus, an ML-driven gesture detection algorithm is also added. This makes the interval of auto-rotation reduce by 25%.

Google Pixel 4 and later phones have a face detection feature in addition to this. When enables, this will use the front camera of your device to judge when the screen should be rotated more accurately. To enable this feature, head over to Settings app > Display > Auto-rotate screen > toggle the “enable face detection” option.

• 
  

  Removed colorful icons from Settings

  
  

The icons in the Settings app are not colorful now. In fact, they are similar as it was in older Android versions. Probably because Google wanted to make it more consistent.

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  Customizable "Material You" Theme

  
  

Unlike Android 12 Beta 2, you can now choose the theme palette color depending upon the wallpaper. The current Beta adds a WallpaperPicker app that brings this action. In short, after applying wallpaper, you can again change the system theme color. You can either choose the generated palette options or a basic color theme.

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• 
  

  Themed icons

  
  

There is a new “themed icon” toggle in the WallpaperPicker app. Enabling this toggle will apply the system theme to most of your Google apps. However, the theme is not applied to every app, such as the icons for Chat, Find My Device, Play Games, and Tasks were not affected by new effects.

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• 
  

  Disable swipe to invoke assistant gesture

  
  

There are times when Google Assistant accidentally invokes by your swiping up from the smartphone. Android 12 Beta 3 has come up with a solution for this. The update offers a google that has an option to disable this gesture. To do this, visit Settings > System > Gestures > System navigation > Gesture navigation, and then tap the cog icon.

• 
  

  Media recommendations

  
  

The media player is refined and integrated with Android 12. Also, the user can disable the paused media player to display under the Quick Settings panel. To do this, open Settings > Sound & Vibration > Media.

Additionally, there's a “show media recommendations” option on the Media setting page. However, this function does not function as it is related to the upcoming “Live Space” feature. Once arrives, the “Live Space” widget will show media suggestions whenever an audio device is connected.

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• 
  

  “At a Glance” is renamed as “Live Space”

  
  

Google has renamed the “At a Glance” widget as “Live Space” in Android 12 Beta 3. Apart from rebranding, there's nothing new in the functionality of this option. However, the “Live Space” widget is expected to receive a new set of features that were not present before. This includes an “at a store” toggle, a media recommendations toggle, and information related to events such as sports and birthdays.

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• 
  

  Storage settings show trash storage

  
  

The storage setting option will now show the trash storage usage along with the other files. As the name suggests, it displays how much storage the trashed files take.

• 
  

  Wi-Fi is merged into the “Internet” panel

  
  

The Wi-Fi and mobile data tiles are now combined into one tile called “Internet.” Clicking on this option in Quick Settings will open the internet panel screen. This panel will let you select the Wi-Fi network or toggle mobile data. This might simplify the connectivity experience, but you can not turn off the Wi-Fi directly from your home screen.

• 
  

   Redesigned Bubbles and PIP windows closing experience

  
  

In Android 12 Beta 3, the bubble or picture-in-picture window can be seen with a couple of changes. Firstly, the close target (X) button at the bottom is enlarged. Secondly, the animation when a bubble or PIP window is closed is now much clearer.

[video width="606" height="1248" mp4="https://www.thegoandroid.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Android-12-Beta-3-Bubble-closing.mp4"][/video]

• 
  

  The setup screen is revamped

  
  

Purchasing a new device or resetting the current one takes you to the SetupWizard app. This guides you to add a Google account, set preferences, connect to the internet, and a few more things. With Android 12 Beta 3, the experience is enhanced as the layout is in coordination with the Material You theme.

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  Game Settings

  
  

The much-awaited game dashboard is rolled out with Android 12 Bta 3. Once enabled, the user can access the gaming dashboard with utility options like DND, FPS meter, screenshot, and screen recorder. In addition, it will have a shortcut for YouTube Live streaming. However, the features are not fully available in the third beta, but there's a new “Game settings” page that provides the DND and game dashboard enabling options.

• 
  

  One-handed mode and “swipe for notifications” gestures are combined

  
  

Android 12 DP 2 added a “swipe for notifications” gesture and one-handed mode. But, both the options get triggered with the same action i.e; swipe down near the bottom of any screen. The problem got solved in Beta 3, as Google dropped the settings page for the “swipe for notifications” gesture and moved it to the one-handed mode page.

Other Changes

• The “Text and display” menu under the Accessibility settings is rearranged on Google’s part.

• To serve privacy, there's a feature flag that enables the location indicator alerts.

• For security purposes, there's an “Advanced Security” option that lists various settings. The options are taken from the Security settings page.

• The power menu settings are now placed directly under “System.”

• Initially opening the power menu in Android 12 Beta 3 displays a tip for the user directing them where are the device controls and quick access wallet feature.

• Pixel Launcher will display a help tip when the user first opens the widget picker to make them aware of the new widgets.

• The general notification section is now up top, and “app settings” enable the user to quickly access managing notifications for apps.

• Pixel phones will now ship with Google Camera 8.3.252, which supports dynamic theming based on the Material You theme.

Related: Download Android 12 GApps for every Android device

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[Update: July 2021 Security Patch] Galaxy Xcover Pro Update Tracker

At the beginning of 2020, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Xcover Pro smartphone featuring a 6.3-inch IPS LCD display. The phone offers Android 10 OS out of the box paired with 64GB storage and 4GB RAM. Under the hood, it equips an octa-core processor-based Exynos 9611 chipset. There's a dual rear camera consisting of a 25MP primary sensor and a single 13MP camera for selfies.

Must see: Download original iOS 15 Wallpapers for all of your devices

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated with every build released for the Samsung Galaxy Xcover Pro.

Galaxy Xcover Pro Update Tracker

• [July 14th, 2021]: Samsung is sending July 2021 security patch to the Galaxy Xcover Pro. The update is unfurling in Poland via firmware version G715FNXXS9CUG2. This is a minor update and does not carry any new additions. Though, the patch resolves almost 20 privacy and security-related risks. Moreover, it drives improvements in the system and also addresses the much-reported Android Auto bug.


• [February 5, 2021]: Galaxy Xcover Pro is receiving the Android 11-based One UI 3.0 Update.  The update is spinning on the G715FNXXU7BUA8 Firmware version to various countries like Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Malaysia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands, the UAE, the UK, etc. For more information and features about this update, visit our dedicated article.

As usual, the OTA update is out in a phase-wise manner. You can either wait for a pop-up notification regarding the new build or check it manually. To give it a self-check, head over to the Settings app > Software update and tap on Download and install. Also, we suggest you switch over to a WiFi network before downloading the update to avoid data charges.

Related: [Update: July 2021 security patch] Samsung Galaxy A02/A02s update tracker

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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.



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.

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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!

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.



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.



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.

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

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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.

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.



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.



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

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[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.

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

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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

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