Google Drive for Android gets audio playback speed and notification controls

Google Drive is one of the best options when it comes to storage and sharing. However, the platform is not right for every file format such as audio. The Drive app media player is not preferable, but Google is changing the scenario with this new update. The fresh build brings a couple of new features including audio playback speed.

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To be more precise, Google Drive is receiving better audio control at various speeds. Additionally, the platform is getting access to notifications control. The feature is already present in several music player apps and services, and finally, Google Drive has decided to adopt this. Though, it is hard to say that users will switch to Drive as their default media player.

Once updated, you will notice buttons to play and pause the audio straight from the notification panel. This is helpful in case the user wants to switch over to another app while continue listening to the track. Moreover, the user has the power to speed up or slow down the playback audio according to preferences.

Though people will not choose Google Drive as the main media player, still the buttons can prove to be useful. For instance, the buttons will improve your experience when you are listening to lectures, speeches, and other recordings shared via Google Drive.

The build can hit as the usual server-side update, but you can still try flashing the new version via Google Play Store. In case, the features do not show up, hold on for some time till the feature makes its way to your Android smartphone.

Read more: Material You arrives on Google Camera 8.3 with new UI tweaks

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‘Something went wrong’ with Disney+, fix in progress

The American OTT streaming service platform, Disney+ (pronounced Disney Plus) is reportedly not working or crashed on the Xbox platform for many users across the globe. The infuriate subscribers have taken this issue to online social platforms like Twitter. They probably want attention and explanation about the problem and a fix for the same.

Make sure to visit: Download Android Studio 4.2: New Features and Changes in the Bag

It's been few hours since Disney Plus is not working on the Xbox platform and the user's complaints are increasing rapidly on Twitter and Reddit. It's been a while since opening the streaming service app displays an error message quoting "Something went wrong. Please try again later."



The 'later' went for hours and finally, the Disney+ help team has acknowledged the problem on Twitter. They confirmed that the helpers are working to address the issue faced by the Xbox users for the past few hours.

"We are working to get this resolved ASAP. For now, try accessing the service on another supported device if possible," says the Disney+ support team.

Though, the team does not mention any exact timing of when the problem will be fixed but, sooner or later, the users will get to play videos anyway. Also, Disney Plus has not mentioned any reason behind the lag on Xbox devices. It could probably be because of the recent update that arrived on the OTT platform for Xbox, not sure though.

Read more: Google Lens latest update enables users to analyze photos from gallery

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[Update: July 2021 security patch] Samsung Galaxy Fold Updates Tracker

In Q1 2019, Samsung officially launched Galaxy Fold with Android 9 Pie. The phone features a 7.3-inch screen paired with 12GB RAM and up to 512GB of internal storage. Under the hood, it powers an octa-core processor based on Snapdragon 855 chipset and Adreno 640 GPU. In the shooting department, the phone houses a 12MP triple rear camera and a 10MP dual front snapper.

Must see: How to install LineageOS 18.1 on Galaxy S10 Exynos

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated regularly with the latest update releases for the Galaxy Fold.

Samsung Galaxy Fold Updates Tracker

• [July 2021]: Galaxy Fold is the latest device to join the July 2021 Security Patch update party. The update has started hitting the devices in France via the firmware number F900FXXS5EUF3. Unfortunately, the changelog of this update remains a mystery right now. Nonetheless, as it is a regular monthly patch, we can expect known bug fixes, improvements, and minor changes.


• [March 31, 2021]: The company has now started lining up the April 2021 Security Patch update to the Galaxy Fold users. The update can be identified on the firmware version F900FXXU4EUCF, and it is currently rolling out only in France. However, we can expect a wider release shortly. Head here to know more details on this build.


• [February 26, 2021]: Galaxy Fold is grabbing the One UI 3.1 update on firmware version F900FXXU4EUBF. Presently, the update is live in France, while it will soon it other regions as well. The build brings minor UI changes, private share, object eraser tool, Google Home smart devices controls, and it removes GPS location from images.


• [February 16, 2021]: Samsung Galaxy Fold is receiving Android 11-based One UI 3.0 update. The update with the firmware version F900U1UEU4DUA3 features Android 11 like chat bubbles, a conversation section in the notifications area, one-time permissions, and a media playback widget. There’s also a refreshed user interface and enhanced stock Samsung apps including UI 3.0 skin on top coupled with February 2021 security patch.


• [July 10, 2020]: Samsung has recently pushed out the July 2020 Security Patch update for its Galaxy Fold devices. The update with the F900FXXS4BTF2 Firmware version is currently rolling out only for the international LTE variants only. As of now, the users from European markets, Kazakhstan, and Russia are experiencing the update.The patch reports bug fixes and a few optimizations.


• [June 9, 2020]: Samsung started rolling out the June 2020 Security patch update for the unlocked versions of Galaxy Fold. The update comes with the firmware version  F900U1UES3BTE1 in the USA. The package brings stability improvements, security loophole fixes, and bug fixes that were posted last month in Google & Samsung community Forums.


• [June 5, 2020]: Samsung has released the June 2020 security patch for the 4G variants of Galaxy Fold. The build arrives on the F900FXXS3BTE1 firmware version for European variants. According to the changelog provided by the company, the update includes only the new security patch, and no new features were added to this update.


• [May 13, 2020]: The May 2020 security patch is rolling out for the Galaxy Fold units in the UK. the update arrives on firmware versions F907BXXU3BTDD. Along with the security enhancements, the new update also adds some new features related to the camera along with general bug fixes. Click here to know what more you will get with this package.

As the update is having a phase-wise rollout, it may take some time to reach all the units. In the meantime, you can head to Settings > Software updates > Security updates to check the update manually. We also suggest you switch over to a WiFi network before downloading the update to avoid data charges.

Related: [Update: June 2021 Security Patch] Realme Narzo 10 Update Tracker

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[Update: July 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy A2 Core Updates Tracker

In April 2019, Samsung debuted the Galaxy A2 Core smartphone featuring a 5.0-inch PLS IPS display. Under the hood, it is powered by an Octa-core processor based on Exynos 7870 Octa Chipset. The smartphone equips a single 5MP camera on the rear and the front side. It offers Android 8.0 Oreo onboard paired with 1GB RAM and 16GB of internal storage.

Must see: How to unlock bootloader on Micromax In Note 1

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated regularly with the latest update releases.

Samsung Galaxy A2 Core Updates Tracker

• [July 15th, 2021]: Samsung has started rolling out the current security maintenance, July 2021 to the Galaxy A2 Core. Presently, the update is unfurling in India via the firmware version A260GDDSBAUF1. While the units in other regions will also get similar treatment soon. This is a minor bump in safety level and does not add any new additions. Though, the patch fixes almost 20 privacy and security-related risks along with the much-reported Android Auto bug.

As the update is rolling out in phases, it may take some time to reach all the units. Meanwhile, you can head to Settings > Software updates > Security updates to check the update manually. 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 S20 FE Update Tracker

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OnePlus Watch latest update refreshes the UI and fix the erratic GPS issue

With the launch of the OnePlus Watch alongside the OnePlus 9 series, users seem to face several issues and flaws in the software experience. To overcome these, the company is trying to make it up by sending updates to the wearable. Now, OnePlus is rolling out another update with firmware version B.62.

Make sure to visit: Download the Windows 11 wallpapers in high quality from here

The latest firmware B.62 addresses some issues that hinders the experience of the OnePlus Watch users. The build brings some changes to the user interface and adds new designs. In addition, this build fixes the "accuracy and speed" of GPS positioning.

As per the changelog, the new design includes a refreshed volume button. Furthermore, the package optimizes the remote camera interface and enhances the dial details. Other details like dates are also added to the dialer to make it look better. OnePlus has also improved the interface buttons that makes it more convenient. Here is the precise changelog issued by the company.

Changelog

• Design
  
  
  
  • Optimize the design details of some dials, make them look better, and add some information such as date;
  
  
  • Optimize the layout of some interface buttons, making them more intuitive and convenient to use;
  
  
  • The newly designed volume control function makes adjustment easier and convenient;
  
  
  • Optimize the remote control camera interface;
  
  
  
  


• Workout
  
  
  
  • Improved the accuracy and speed of GPS positioning
  
  
  
  

However, before flashing the update, OnePlus says to make sure that the watch battery is more than 40%. Also, don’t forget to keep your watch and mobile phone close to each other and ensure that Bluetooth is connected during the upgrade process.

As usual, the update is incremental i.e; it will roll out to limited users at first. A broader rollout will follow in the next few days.

Read more: OnePlus 8 lineup will receive ColorOS stable update next year

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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.

[gallery link="none" size="large" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="116965,116981,116982"]

• 
  

  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.

[gallery link="none" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" size="large" columns="2" ids="116980,116967"]

• 
  

  “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.

[gallery link="none" size="large" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="116968,116978,116979"]

• 
  

  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.

[gallery link="none" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" size="large" ids="116972,116973,116974,116975,116976,116977"]

• 
  

  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)

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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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