[Update: June 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy J8 Update Tracker

In May 2018, Samsung launched the Galaxy J8. The phone carries a 6.0-inch display paired with up to 64GB of storage and 4GB RAM. Under the hood, the device runs on Android 8.0 (Oreo) out of the box, powered by Snapdragon 450 chipset. For shooting purposes, Galaxy J8 houses a 16MP camera on both the front and rear sides. It ships with a 3500 mAh battery that offers 23hours of Talktime and 112 hours of music playback as claimed by Samsung.

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

Note: This is an update tracker article and will be revised with Samsung Galaxy J8 updates.

Samsung Galaxy J8 Update Tracker

• [July 20th, 2021]: A month-old June 2021 security patch is rolling out to Galaxy J8. The fresh build is rolling out in Caucasus countries, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine via firmware version J810FJXU5CUF2. Apart from the new safety patch, the package does not bring any new features. Though internally, the June patch fixes over 40 security vulnerabilities for Galaxy devices.

As usual, the update is having a phase-wise rollout, it may take some time to reach all the units. Meanwhile, you can head to phone 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.

Read more: [Update: July 2021 Security Patch] Redmi 9/ Note 9 Update Tracker

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Xiaomi is sending MIUI 12.5 update to Redmi Note 7 Global variant

Soon after the release of MIUI 12.5, Xiaomi started updating its flagships regularly as per the roadmap. In fact, some devices got bump ahead of the timeline. Following the Redmi Note 7 Pro, the standard variant is receiving the latest skin by the brand.

Must see: Download SuperSU zip to root your Android Device [SuperSU APK]

Presently, the Redmi Note 7 runs on Android 10 and is not eligible to grab Android 11. But, it still is receiving MIUI 12.5. The fresh build is rolling out for global variants through firmware version V12.5.1.0.QFGMIXM weighs 2.4GB in size.

Talking about features, MIUI 12.5 brings enhanced performance, UI tweaks, new animations, privacy features, an updated Notes app, and a lot more. Moreover, the changelog also mentions the June 2021 security patch for the device. Here is what you will get flashing the new software.

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


• Notes
  
  
  
  • 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.
  
  
  • New: Compose mind maps with complex structures.
  
  
  • All-new Notes.
  
  
  
  

The latest stable beta update is initially rolling out to limited users. After ensuring the absence of critical bugs, a border rollout will follow.

Related: Redmi K20 Pro gets MIUI 12.5 in India [Download Recovery ROM]

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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.

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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

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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.

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[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

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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

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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.

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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 

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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.

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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

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