WhatsApp is unfurling a new feature called "joinable group calls"

Imagine being stuck at work and missing an exciting group call from your friends or family, annoying isn't it? WhatsApp has finally come up with a solution for this. The company is unfurling a new feature called "joinable group calls." As the name suggests, the feature enables the user to join a group call few minutes after it started.

Make sure to visit: Download Hyperion launcher by Substratum developers

Until now, if the user missed a group call, there was no way to rejoin it. This joinable group call feature will make it easier for the user to join the calls they've missed. The feature started rolling out on Monday so now you can catch up on the call you left. But remember it only allows to join the call minutes after it started. Moreover, in case you leave a call midway, you can also join back again after a couple of minutes.

Recently, WhatsApp enabled the option to share multimedia files in different qualities. In WhatsApp Beta v2.21.14.6, the user can now choose an image and video upload quality.  The feature displays as ‘Image upload quality’ and ‘Video upload quality.’ The sender gets three options to choose from — Auto (recommended), Best Quality, and Data saver.

In the “Auto (recommended)” option, WhatsApp will automatically apply the best compression for the respective image. As the name suggests, “Best quality” will send the picture in the highest possible quality consuming more data. Whereas, the “Data saver” option will compress the photo quality.

Read more: Google may bring new Search and Downloads sections to YouTube Music

Read more »

OnePlus releases the OxygenOS 11.2.8.8 update for the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro

Two days earlier, OnePlus has spun the Android 11 update to the OnePlus Nord N10 5G. The Tech giant is now sending the OxygenOS 11.2.8.8 for the OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro smartphones. The new firmwares are currently live in India, Europe, and Namibia. The firmware information is as follows.

Must See: Google may bring new Search and Downloads sections to YouTube Music.

OxygenOS 11.2.8.8 update

Going ahead with the OnePlus 9's update first, it appears on the software number 11.2.8.8.LE25DA for the Indian users, 11.2.8.8.LE25BA for the European users, and lastly, 11.2.8.8.LE25AA for Namibia users.

Forthcoming to the OnePlus 9 Pro's OxygenOS 11.2.8.8 update, the users from India are receiving it on the firmware variant 11.2.8.8.LE15DA. Whereas the European users are getting in on build 11.2.8.8.LE15BA and the Nambian users are experiencing it on firmware 11.2.8.8.LE15AA.

According to the release note from the company, the new firmware dispatches with the latest July 2021 Security Patch, fixes for known issues, stability improvements, new add-ons, and some other changes to the OnePlus Store.

The latest firmware adds the Bitmoji AOD, co-designed by Snapchat & Bitmoji, which will liven up the ambient display with your personal Bitmoji avatar. Your avatar will update throughout the day based on your activity and things happening around you ( Path: Settings - Customization - Clock on ambient display - Bitmoji ).

Furthermore, you will be able to say-to-access support, discover exciting members-only benefits, and shop for OnePlus products (Please note that it can be uninstalled) in the OnePlus Store.

The company has also confirmed that the OTA update will be initially available only to the limited number of users now. A broader rollout will begin in a few days.

In the meantime, you can head over to Settings Menu and go to the Software updates section and check for the update. If any update shows up there, download and install it to get the taste of it. Alternatively, the firmware can also be download via the Oxygen updater application.

Related: Xiaomi Mi MIX 3 receives MIUI 12.5 update.

Read more »

[Update: Stable Android 11 Realme UI 2.0] Realme X2 Update Tracker

Realme X2 was officially launched a couple of years back featuring a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display. Under the hood, it is powered by an Octa-core processor-based Snapdragon 730G. The smartphone ships with Android 9 Pie out of the box paired with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage. Realme X2 equips a quad-camera module at the rear with a 64MP primary sensor and a 32MP snapper for selfies.

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

Note: We will keep this post updated with the latest updated information regarding the Realme X2 smartphone updates.

Realme X2 Update Tracker

• [July 19, 2021]: Realme X2 is grabbing the stable Android 11 update along with Realme UI 2.0. Identified by firmware version RMX1991_11_F.20, the update is limited to China beta testers, and will soon roll out in India. The update brings all-new features, enhancements, optimizations, and fixes. Alongside, the package enhances privacy by cultivating June 2021 security patch. Here is the precise changelog by the company.

Changelog

• Security
  
  
  
  • Update Android security patch (2021#6)
  
  
  
  


• Internet
  
  
  
  • Optimized the icon style of the status bar for international Internet access
  
  
  
  


• Camera
  
  
  
  • Optimize the smoothness of camera startup
  
  
  
  


• WLAN
  
  
  
  • Fixed the problem that the network connection fails when the WiFi password contains special characters in the connection part
  
  
  • Fixed the problem of low probability of freezing caused by too many saved WiFi
  
  
  
  


• Mini floating window
  
  
  
  • Fixed the issue that occasionally crashed after opening other applications under the mini floating window and then returning
  
  
  • Fixed the issue of the black screen occasionally when long-pressing the mini floating window and clicking close after using the photo album to cast the screen
  
  
  
  


• Flashlight
  
  
  
  • Fixed the problem that the flashlight turns off unexpectedly when the face is unlocked
  
  
  
  


• Bluetooth
  
  
  
  • Fixed the issue of abnormal absolute volume function when using Airpods earphones
  
  
  
  


• OTG
  
  
  
  • Fixed the problem that some OTG devices fail to recognize
  
  
  
  

• [March 24, 2021]: Realme X2 is acquiring an overhaul along with some bug fixes. The package is rolling out in India with firmware number RMX1992EX_11_C.17.Along with the March 2021 security patch, the latest firmware for Realme X2 optimizes ​​system performance and system stability. Also, it fixes several vulnerabilities like restoring to the default ringtone issue in call ringtone. Here’s the entire changelog issued by Realme:
  

  Changelog

  
  

• Security
  ◊ Updated Android security patch(February & March 2021)


• System
  ◊ Optimized system performance and improved system stability


• Setting
  ◊ Fixed the probabilistic restoring to default ringtone issue in call ringtone
  ◊ Fixed the probabilistic face enrollment failure issue

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: June 2021 Security Patch] Redmi 9C Update Tracker

Read more »

Samsung Galaxy M01s is grabbing Android 11 Core One UI 3.1 update

After updating the high-end and mid-range flagships, Samsung has shifted its focus to entry-level smartphones. Recently, the company released the latest stable channel to its lower devices like Galaxy A20s. The next in line is Galaxy M01s that is receiving the Android 11 update tossed with Core One UI 3.1. The handset debuted last year in June with Android 9 (Pie) onboard.

Must see: Download Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Stock Wallpapers for Free

The latest update for the Galaxy M01s is unfurling in India through the firmware version M017FXXU2CUG1 that weighs around 1.4GB in size. Apart from the Android 11 features and Core One UI goodies, the package also cultivates the July 2021security patch to the device.

The update log mentions a handful of new features, changes, enhancements, and optimizations concerning changes. Android 11 adds smart traits like chat bubbles, a dedicated conversation section in the notification area, one-time permissions, a native screen recorder, several new device controls, and a lot more.



Talking about Core One UI 3.1, it is the lighter version of One UI 3.1. Samsung tags this version as "focus on what matters." The lighter version arrives with a redesigned UI, improved performance, and better customizations. These performance improvements will help the apps to run quicker while consuming less battery power.

As the update is heavy in size, we advise the users to keep their smartphones connected to a strong Wi-Fi connection. Also, keep your device charged at least 60%. As usual, the OTA build will hit the Indian units of Galaxy M01s in a short span of time. Alternatively, you can track the new package manually via phone Settings -> Software update > Download and install.

(via)

Read more: [Update: July 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy Note 20 update tracker

Read more »

Google Duo is adapting a redesigned home screen with ‘New Call’ button

All the video calling platforms have seen an increasing number of users since last year. Everything from education, work to entertainment and social life shifted to the virtual side. Where every company is busy polishing its services, Google Duo seems to lag. Though Google is inclined towards the Meet app, it's been a while since the tech giant updated its most popular video calling app, Google Duo.

Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus 9 Live wallpapers for any Android Phone

After quite some time, Google Duo is receiving a new update with a home screen redesign. Alongside, there will be a “New Call” button that will perform every task. The button appears at the bottom-right corner of the page. Moreover, Google has added a top search field, whose function is to find contacts and dial them. While the remaining screen displays a grid of circular contacts.

As mentioned, the “New Call” button is there to do everything. That means the key action in the app like making a call and invoke the assistant can be done via this single button. Additionally, the user can also create groups and invite contacts. Further, tapping on a contact or group to message will enable the user to send multimedia files, notes, or pictures.

"Inspired by your feedback, we have taken steps to simplify the Duo home screen while keeping all the features you love," says Google.

This update makes the Google Duo app compact, sizeable, and easier to use. The fresh update has started to appear for some users, while a wider rollout will follow in the next few weeks. Keep in note that the update is initially rolling out to Android users and iOS devices will get a hit later.

Read more: Google Drive for Android gets audio playback speed and notification controls 

Read more »

Xiaomi Mi 11 is getting updated with June 2021 security patch

Xiaomi Mi 11 was launched before the unveiling of its latest customized skin, MIUI 12.5. During the event, the company promised the up-gradation of the flagship with the new build. The Chinese giant kept its words and it seems Xiaomi is not done updating its current premium flagship. Yet again the company is sending another software update to the Mi 11 smartphone.

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

The latest update for the Xiaomi Mi 11 is unfurling globally via firmware version V12.5.5.0.RKBMIXM. As far as changes are concerned, the new build will bring a new experience to your device. Moreover, it enhances privacy by incorporating a month-old patch, June 2021 into the device. Additionally, an issue where the Knuckle double-tap stopped working after Game Turbo had been turned off is fixed.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to June 2021. Increased system security.
  
  
  
  


• Other
  
  
  
  • Fix: Knuckle double-tap stopped working after Game Turbo had been turned off.
  
  
  
  

As usual, the OTA build is rolling out in stages and will hit your Xiaomi Mi 11 anytime soon. Alternatively, you can also track the package manually by heading to Settings > Software update > Check for update > tap on Download and install if the new version pops up.

Xiaomi Mi 11 acquired the MIUI 12.5 update in May 2021 accompanied by the April security patch. The update bought new features that added to the system performance and drove fixes for a couple of issues as well. To know precise details about this update, visit our dedicated article.

Read more: Xiaomi Redmi 10 key specs revealed through different online certifications

Read more »

Oppo A16 is finally official with Helio G35 chipset, All you need to know!

After an innumerable amount of leaks and rumors, Oppo A16 is finally official and has been announced in Indonesia. Before the launch, the smartphone appeared on several online websites including FCC, SIRIM, and NBTC. This listing gave us a hint of what we can expect from the device. But now that Oppo A16 is official, here are some in-depth details about the specs, pricing, and availability.

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

Oppo A16 Specifications

Design: Like regular budget smartphones, Oppo A16 also flaunts a plastic body. The phone weighs 190g and the dimensions measures are 163.8 x 75.6 x 8.4mm. You can grab the device in exotic color variants of Pearl Blue, Space Silver, and Crystal Black.

Display: Oppo A16 features a 6.52-inch LCD HD+ dewdrop notch display with a 60Hz refresh rate. The panel offers 720×1600 pixels resolution, 269 PPI, and 60Hz touch sampling rate. Additionally, the display has a typical setup to adjust light i.e; 1500:1 contrast ratio, 480 nits brightness, and an 88.7% screen-to-body ratio.

The rear side of Oppo A16 carries a rectangular-shaped module at the upper left corner to house the camera. The power button and volume rockers are placed on the right and left sides of the device respectively.



Processor and Storage: Under the hood, Oppo A16 equips an entry-level MediaTek chipset, Helio G35 SoC. Further, this is paired with 3GB LPDDR4x RAM and 32GB eMMC 5.1 internal storage. The configuration is expandable via a dedicated MicroSD card slot. The smartphone has Android 11 onboard tossed with Oppo's customized skin, ColorOS 11.1.

Camera: For Shooting purposes, Oppo A16 houses an 8MP lens on the front side that serves selfies and video calls. On the rear side, the device carries a triple camera setup consisting of a 13MP primary camera, a 2MP monochrome snapper, and a 2MP macro shooter.

Battery, Connectivity, and Sensors: Oppo A16 ships with a 5,000mAh battery that supports standard 10W charging over a USB Type-C port. To serve connectivity, the smartphone supports a 4G network with dual-SIM, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, GNSS, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Moreover, Oppo A16 has standard sensors like an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, compass, and proximity sensor. To serve the security, the smartphone has a side-mounted fingerprint reader.

Price and Availability

Oppo A16 is worth IDR 1,999,000 in Indonesia ($138). However, there are no words from the company regarding the availability of the device in other regions. Though as per leaks, the handset can be launched as Oppo A37 (2021) in some countries.

Read more: Oppo ColorOS 11 July 2021 roadmap: List of Eligible Smartphones

Read more »

[Update: July 2021 Security Patch] Galaxy Note 9 Updates Tracker

Samsung officially launched the Galaxy Note 9 in August 2018 with Android 8.1 Oreo. The phone features a 6.4-inch screen paired with 8GB RAM and up to 512GB of internal storage. Under the hood, it powers an octa-core processor based on Snapdragon 845 or Exynos 9810 chipset depending upon regions. In the shooting department, the phone houses a 12MP dual rear camera and an 8MP front snapper.

[caption id="attachment_109498" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Samsung Galaxy Note 9[/caption]

Must see: Download Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Stock Wallpapers for Free

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated regularly with the latest update releases for the Galaxy Note 9.

Galaxy Note 9 Updates Tracker

• [July 16, 2021]: The Verizon and T-Mobile variants of Galaxy Note 9 are grabbing the July 2021 security patch. The fresh update weighs almost 170MB and arrives on firmware version QP1A.190711.020.N960USQS9FUF1. The update does not carry anything special but it resolved almost 20 privacy and security-related risks.


• [June 9, 2021]: The Unlocked variants of Galaxy Note 9 in the USA are grabbing a new software update. The latest update for the Galaxy Note 9 in the US arrives on firmware version N960U1UEU8FUE1. Talking about the changes, the package brings improvements in system performance. Also, it is accompanied by the current security maintenance, June 2021 patch. To know about more features the build carries, visit our dedicated article.


• [April 19, 2021]: Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is now finally receiving the April 2021 security patch update. The new update of the smartphone carries the firmware version N9600ZHS7FUD1. Presently, the build is unfurling in South Africa and China, while the units in other regions will get similar treatment soon. The update is a minor bump and does not add anything special.


• [March 24, 2021]: The Galaxy Note 9 has started tasting the March 2021 Security Patch. The build version N960NKSU3FUC1 can identify the update, and it is currently available to the unlocked and carrier variants (KT and SKT) in South Korea. The package incorporates three vulnerabilities fixes that are related to the Exynos 990 processor. Additionally, it also includes the 16 other vulnerabilities related to Galaxy devices.


• [July 10, 2020]: Samsung is rolling out the July security update to the Galaxy Note 9. It is to note that this particular update is initially available for users in Germany and comes with firmware version N960FXXS6ETG1. The company will be rolling out the update to other markets pretty soon. July security update addresses several Android OS and Galaxy series-specific vulnerabilities. Head here to know further improvements the build carries.


• [June 11, 2020]: The Galaxy Note 9 received the latest May 2020 security patch. Now, the company has started rolling out One UI 2.1 for the Galaxy Note 9 in Germany. firmware version N960FXXU5ETF5. The new UI includes features like Quick Share, camera improvements, and more. For precise details and features of the package, click here.


• [May 15, 2020]: The unlocked Galaxy Note 9S is receiving May 2020 security patch update in the US. The smartphone is receiving a new update with firmware version N960U1UES4DTD1. Apart from the May 2020 Security patch, the update does not feature any extra amenities for the device.


• [May 13, 2020]: The Korean giant is rolling out May 2020 security patch update for Galaxy Note 9. The new update for the Galaxy Note 9 is now rolling out in Germany with the firmware version N960FXXS5DTE2. Apart from the usual fixes, the new firmware adds some fixes to improve the overall stability of the smartphone. Click here to know more.


• [April 2, 2020]: Samsung’s starts rolling out April security patch on its 2018 flagship Galaxy Note 9. The update comes with firmware version N960FXXU5DTCA and weighs about 468.26 MB in size. The video shooting is also and general camera performance is also improved. There are UI changes like the power button is seen in the notification area you can see that in the photo. Head here to know the precise details.


• [February 3, 2020]: The US Unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is now receiving the Android 10 update. The Galaxy Note 9 bearing model number SM-N960U1 has started receiving the over-the-air update in the US. The update with the firmware version N960U1UEU3DTA5 weighs over 1.9GB in size. Along with the luxuries of Android 10, the company also packed the January Security patch 2020. Know the exciting Android 10 features here.


• [October 19, 2018]: Samsung finally starts rolling out Android Security Patch for the month of October on its Galaxy Note 9. The update weighs 67.5MB in size and comes with the firmware version N960FXXS2ARJ4. It includes the October Security Patch along with some improvements in the performance of the device. The patch includes the fixes for 2 Android OS critical vulnerabilities. However, Samsung has also added corrections for 11 vulnerabilities found in its own software.


• [September 12, 2018]: The Note 9 users have reported that they have been receiving September 2020 security updates. The update carries the firmware version N960FXXS2ARH6 in the Baltic region, Romania, Bulgaria Slovakia, etc. It fixes some existing bugs and also updates the latest September security patch. The update also enhances the performance of the device by solving those vulnerabilities.

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: July 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy M11 Update Tracker

Read more »

The latest update for Galaxy Watch 3 enhances SpO2 function

Samsung always finds a way to keep its products updated. Be it smartphones or watches, it takes care of all. Where the company is preparing to launch Galaxy Watch 4, it has not forgotten its older wearables. Recently, Watch Active 2 and Galaxy Watch 3 got a new software update. Yet again, the latter one is grabbing another build.

Make sure to visit: [Download] Firefox 89 arrives on Android with a new interface

The fresh build for the Galaxy Watch 3 is arriving via the R845FXXU1DUE4 firmware version. The update is live in India that weighs around 780MB in size. The package enhances the overall quality of the wearable. Though it mainly emphasizes increasing the accuracy of the blood oxygen measurement (SpO2 level) and provide better results.

FYI, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is the first wearable from Samsung that has SpO2 function on board. Furthermore, the changelog mentions the addition of a voice coach function or voice guidance support. The feature guides the user during exercise through the connected device. Galaxy Watch Active 2 users have already had this function available since last year.

What's New?

• Voice guidance is provided via a headset connected to the mobile when exercising with a watch.


• Voice guidance is provided for traveled distance and HR data when the Auto Lap feature is enabled during Running/Cycling.


• Improved Blood Oxygen management.


• Improved system stability and reliability.

If the users of Galaxy Watch 3 in India are connected to a smartwatch (via wearable app), they will receive a notification automatically. The update can also be checked manually 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.

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

Read more »