Thursday, July 29, 2021

Android Studio Arctic Fox is now official to download with V2020.3.1

Google today released Android Studio Arctic Fox and Jetpack Compose 1.0 in a stable channel. For those unaware, these are Android's new tools to build a native user interface. Moreover, the stable arrival emphasizes all Android-powered devices including Wear OS.

Android Studio Arctic Fox
Must see: Download Android Studio 4.2: New Features and Changes in the Bag

Jetpack Compose 1.0 was supposed to release in May as announced by Google. The platform offers a variety of productivity features like Background Task Manager. This implies that the developers can now create high-end apps faster. Alongside, there is a list of other changes that will help to work more efficiently:

  • Create previews of multiple components of your Compose UI

  • Added Compose support to the Layout Inspector

  • Enables deploying snippets of your Compose code directly to a device

  • Added Live Editing of literals

  • New Wear OS pairing assistant to simplify the pairing of Wear OS

  • Added support for the Heart Rate Sensor API

  • Added the newest Google TV Remote Control features and updated the Google TV system images

  • Enabled the emulator to use car sensor data

  • Updated all templates to support landscape out of the box

  • Added new features to help you keep innovating and building amazing apps.

  • Added an Accessibility Scanner for Layout Editor

  • Added preview support for Apple Silicon (arm64) hardware and extended the emulator controls for wider coverage

  • Added new Background Task Inspector.


Regarding Android Studio Arctic Fox, the platform was in the Beta stage before. The testing added new features like Accessibility Scanner, full support for Jetpack Compose, native support for M1 Macs, Test Matrix, along with a bundle of bug fixes.

Read more: Chrome gets Screenshot, Editor; Google Lens features on desktop

[Update: July 2021 Security Patch] Xiaomi Mi 11 Series Updates Tracker

Xiaomi released the Mi 11 Series smartphones this year, including Mi 11, Mi 11 Lite, Mi 11 Pro, Mi 11i, and Mi 11 Ultra. The smartphones features AMOLED, 1B colors screen. Under the hood, the lineup equips the latest stable channel, Android 11. There are plenty of differences in the family but we will focus on the updates the handsets have received.

Xiaomi Mi 11 Series
Must see: Download MIUI 12 Global ROM for Select Xiaomi devices

Notes: This is an update tracker and will be updated with every build released for the Xiaomi Mi 11 smartphones.

Xiaomi Mi 11 Series Updates Tracker



  • [July 29, 2021]: Xiaomi Mi 11i smartphone is receiving a new stable software update. The build arrives with firmware version V12.5.4.0.RKKEUXM. The version brings the current security maintenance, July 2021 to the device. This is a minor bump that does not carry any new additions.

  • [July 19, 2021]: Xiaomi is sending another software update to the Mi 11 smartphone.The latest update is unfurling globally via firmware version V12.5.5.0.RKBMIXM. The update enhances privacy by incorporating June 2021 security patch. Additionally, an issue where the Knuckle double-tap stopped working after Game Turbo had been turned off is fixed. Tap here for detailed information.

  • [July 9, 2021]: Mi 11 Ultra is getting an update with MIUI 12.5.2.0.As of now, the stable update is unfurling in India. The fresh skin can be identified by firmware version V12.5.2.0.RKAINXM weighs around 760MB in size. As far as features are concerned, Xiaomi has issued a precise changelog. To read that, click here.

  • [July 6, 2021]: The latest handset to join the long MIUI 12.5 update list is the Xiaomi Mi 11i. The latest update is unfurling globally via firmware version V12.5.1.0.RKKMIXM. As far as changes are concerned, the new skin will bring a new experience to your device. Moreover, this package also carries the June 2021 security patch. Visit our dedicated article for precise details.

  • [July 6, 2021]: Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite EU and Global variant are grabbing MIUI 12.5.3 update. The latest update is currently rolling out for European and Global variants of the smartphone. The software bears the firmware version V12.5.3.0.RKQEUXM. Talking about the changes, the new skin gives 20 times more power to the device. Tap here to know what exciting the package carries.

  • [May 20, 2021]: Xiaomi Mi 11 is finally acquiring the MIUI 12.5 update in Europe.The fresh skin can be identified by firmware version 12.5.1.0.RKBEUXM weighs 656MB in size. Along with the latest customized features, it incorporates the last month’s Android security patch by GoogleApril 2021. Click here to know more about the new update.


You may have to wait as the update is having a phase-wise rollout. Therefore it will take some time to hit all units. Alternatively, you can head over to Settings > Software update > Check for updates to track the package manually.
Related: [Update: July 2021 Security Patch] Xiaomi Redmi Note 8/ 8 Pro Updates Tracker

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 is under testing for One UI 3.1.1 skin

Samsung has officially confirmed the arrival of its next customized skin, One UI 4. According to the company, the first beta for the new skin will be released in September. Meanwhile, the Korean giant has started testing an upgraded version of One UI 3.1, One UI 3.1.1 for the Galaxy Z Fold 2 smartphones.

Galaxy Z Fold2
Make sure to visit: Download the Windows 11 wallpapers in high quality from here

The new One UI 3.1.1 Skin for the Fold 2 will arrive through the firmware version F916NKSU1DUG7 in its home country. Though the number may differ for the variants in other regions. The beta is presently limited to Korea, and will probably expand soon to other countries as well. 

As per our expectations, the public release and timeline for the rollout of the skin will follow after the Unpacked Galaxy August 2021 event. However, the fresh features of the bumped skin are still undercover. But as One UI 4 is going to start its journey soon, the One UI 3.1.1 is unlikely to be a major overhaul. 

Moreover, as per the fresh reports, the upcoming Samsung foldable, Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Flip 3 will have One UI 3.1.1 Skin onboard based on Android 11

The One UI 3.1 update for Galaxy Z Fold 2 arrived with a bunch of new additions and optimizations. For locked variants of T-mobile, the update bought the February security patch. On the other hand, the unlocked variants bagged March 2021 security update. To see what more the current stable skin inculcated in the device, visit our dedicated article.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 and Watch 4 details surfaces via new Galaxy Wearable app update

Asus ZenFone 8 Flip gets July 2021 security patch update

Since the launch of the ZenFone 8 series in May 2021, Asus is constant in sending updates to the duo. ZenFone 8 Flip is receiving a second software update this month. While the earlier one arrived with the May security patch, the current update inculcates the patch for the month of July.

ZenFone 8 Flip

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

The latest update for the Asus ZenFone 8 Flip is unfurling in several regions. The build bears the firmware version RU_30.11.55.66 for the model number ZS672KS. The major attraction of the device is its innovative flip shooter that gives professional-quality pictures. In fact, Asus says that ZenFone 8 Flip is the “ordinary to excel in everything”.

With this update, the image quality for the default camera app, Instagram, and Snapchat is more enhanced. Moreover, privacy is now strengthened with the current security maintenance. This ultimately optimizes the system stability and improves the performance of the smartphone.

Changelog



  • Improved image quality for ASUS Camera, Instagram, and Snapchat

  • Optimized system stability

  • Updated Android security patch to 2021-07-05


Like all the other updates, the OTA build is also 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 span of time. Meanwhile, you can also flash the firmware manually by heading to Settings > System > System updates > Download and install.
Read more: Asus ZenFone 8 new update brings VoLTE and VoWiFi across several carriers and countries [30.11.51.67]

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

OnePlus 9R receives OxygenOS 11.2.4.4 Update

Updating a smartphone is one way of keeping it brand new, and no one knows this better than OnePlus. OnePlus phones are meant for performance, and any update is significant for enthusiasts. The OnePlus 9R is one of the brand's latest models in the market. Keeping these flagships updated is crucial to the company. And now, the OnePlus 9R receives OxygenOS 11.2.4.4 update with no Ui uplifts or changes upfront. Still, there are enough changes under the hood to make your phone feel even better.

OnePlus 9R receives OxygenOS 11.2.4.4 Update

Related: OnePlus 7T and 7T Pro is receiving OxygenOS 11.0.2.1 update

The update will be available globally, and like always, OnePlus will distribute it in batches. As we said, there are minimal UI patches, and the actual changes lie under the hood. From critical stability improvements to mild touches for the UI, let's see what the update has to offer.

OnePlus 9R OxygenOS 11.2.4.4 Update


The update mainly focuses on stability and thermal improvements. My users reported excess heating while using certain apps. OnePlus had acknowledged the issue earlier and has optimized the overheating control management of third-party apps. The update comes with the latest Android security patch 2021.07 and GMS package 2021.06. OnePlus in their changelog, also mentioned that they've fixed known issues and optimized the Quick Reply experience. 

OnePlus has added the screenshot feature for AOD (Always-on Display) and the Bitmoji AOD. The company designed the Bitmoji AOD with some help from Snapchat & Bitmoji. The user can now set their Avatar in the AOD. Just in case if they need others to know who the owner is. 
Also Read: Best Custom ROMs for OnePlus 9 series

Like we said earlier, this OTA will reach the users in batches to avoid network traffic and widespread critical failures. As in the past, OnePlus always distribute the update to a small percentage of users at first. A broader rollout can be expected in the following days. 

Google is reportedly working to build an iOS-to-Android migration app

As the name suggests, Data Restore Tool is used to move data including apps, multimedia files, contacts, and more from one device to other. The app comes pre-installed on several smartphones. Now, Google has released the simplified backup option as an official app to the Play Store. The explanation for the app says "Switch to Android" which indicates that it will migrate data from iOS to Android.

Data Restore Tool

Make sure to visit: How to install LineageOS 18.1 on Galaxy S10 Exynos

Data Restore Tool went live on Google Play Store last week as a standalone app. As mentioned above, the platform already comes pre-installed with so many devices. Therefore, it has already crossed the milestone of over a billion downloads since its presence on the Play Store.

However, keep in note that this app is different from the one rolled out in 2107. The platform was limited to Pixel devices at that time and now it is accessible to everyone. The latest update to the app might even allow the user to transfer WhatsApp chats from iOS to Android.

Data Restore Tool

Surprisingly, the present version of the app, 1.0.382048734 is already available on recent Samsung smartphones and various other new handsets. Whereas, Google's own devices lack this version unless they have Android 12 Beta running. In fact, the up-gradation is not available for Android 11 Pixels. Even the Android 12 Beta 3 testers get Data Restore Tool app version 1.0.375544850.

Alongside the WhatsApp migrate chat feature, the app may also allow the user to move messages and contact information. Transferring methods for the rest of the apps and files will probably arrive as well.
Read more: Google Keep adds new background images for users

Redmi Note 9 gets a stable MIUI 12.5.1.0 update in India

Xiaomi's upcoming skin, MIUI 13 is on the way meanwhile the company is sending MIUI 12.5 to the eligible flagships. So far, dozens of smartphones have bagged the latest stable skin. Apparently, the company is further giving a minor bump to MIUI 12.5 as well. Redmi Note 9 is receiving a stable update that brings MIUI 12.5.1.0 update in India.

Redmi Note 9 5G
Make sure to visit: Download Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold wallpapers

The latest software is unfurling in India through the firmware version V12.5.1.0.RJOINXM. After flashing the new software, the system security patch will be upgraded to July 2021. Moreover, it brings several new additions to the system and the Notes app. Here's what more the user will get.

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 July 2021. Increased system security.

    • Stable MIUI based on Android 11



  • 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 bring the typography in Notes to a new level.

    • All-new Notes.




The OTA update is rolling out in phases. Therefore, it may take some time to reach all units. It can also be tracked manually via the Settings app > Software update > Check for update > Download and install. Alternatively, you can simply click the link below.



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

OnePlus 7T and 7T Pro is receiving OxygenOS 11.0.2.1 update

OnePlus today updated the OnePlus 7 and 7 Pro smartphones. And now it is turning to the T-mobile variants of the flagship. The company announced via an official community forum that the OnePlus 7T and 7T Pro are receiving a new update. The software brings OxygenOS 11.0.2.1 update.

OnePlus 7T
Must see: OnePlus Pad Trademark made an appearance on EUIPO Website

The fresh update for the duo is rolling out in India, Europe, and Globally. Talking about the OnePlus 7T, the update arrives via the firmware version 11.0.2.1HD65AA in India. while EU and GLO are upgrading with 11.0.2.1HD65BA and 11.0.2.1.HD65AA respectively.

On the other hand, the Pro variant is grabbing the version 11.0.2.1HD01AA for Indian models. Whereas the number varies to 11.0.2.1HD01BA and 11.0.2.1HD01AA​ for the EU and GLO variants.

Regarding new features, the package brings some fixes and optimizations across the system and several apps including camera, file manager, and phone. Moreover, it inculcates the June 2021 security patch to the device. Here are the precise changes as issued by OnePlus.

Changelog



  • System

    • Reduced Power consumption

    • Improved overheating control management

    • Fixed the issue of not being able to play high-definition videos on some video platforms

    • Upgraded Android Security Patch to 2021.06



  • File Manager

    • Fixed the crash issue of the application



  • Camera

    • Fixed the issue that the camera is blurred when shooting on fullscreen size

    • Improved the stability



  • Phone

    • Optimized the dial-pad UI display effect




As always, the build will roll out to certain users at first. A border rollout will follow after making sure that there are no critical bugs. Alternatively, the update can be tracked manually via Settings > Software updates > Check for the updates > Download and install.
Read more: OnePlus Nord 2 5G arrives at AI Benchmark site with Dimensity 1200 

The next Android 13 codename "Tiramisu" revealed

We are still waiting for the stable release of Android 12 and Google has apparently kick-started working on the development of Android 13. As the upcoming version is still under the beta stage. The next version of the operating system will be available the following year. Reportedly, the codename of Android 13 is leaked and it will be called "Tiramisu."

Android 13

Make sure to visit: [Download] Samsung Good Lock Pentastic update bears Air command customization

Since the beginning, Google is denoting each Android version in the name of different desserts. "Since these devices make our lives so sweet, each Android version is named after a dessert," said a Google spokesperson once. Moreover, these versions are named in alphabetic order, starting from Cupcake to Marshmallow and Nougat. Also, this adds a little fun to guess the name of the next version before it reveals.

Android 13

However, the guessing game stopped with the Android 10 which was supposed to be named with the letter Q. The reason Google mentioned this was because dessert names are not universally understood across different cultures languages. But now with Android 13, it looks like the game was just paused as the tech giant is planning to bring the dessert names back.

Android 13

Reportedly, some internal codes in Android 13 reveal that it will be called Tiramisu. For those unknowns, Tiramisu is a traditional Italian espresso-flavored cake. Though the name for Android 13 is leaked, the Android 12 codename is undercover. The upcoming version is still referred to as Android “S,” and we still don't know what it stands for.
Read more: Google Maps new update brings major improvements for the travelers