OnePlus Nord 2 5G receives OxygenOS A.09 update!

Last week, OnePlus pushed the OxygenOS A.08 update for the newly launched upper mid-range device, the OnePlus Nord 2 5G. That update included optimizations for the camera and system. Now, they have started rolling a new update (OxygenOS A.09) for the smartphone. The update comes with the build number DN2101_11_A.09 for the Indian variant. At the same time, the global variant gets the update with DN2103_11_A.09 as the build number. This is reportedly the fourth update that the OnePlus rolls out. Earlier, OnePlus has informed that the OnePlus Nord 2 5G will receive two major Android updates and three years of security updates. Here is the changelog of the new update.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Optimized the notification feature of the Community app
  
  
  • Improved system stability and fixed known issues
  
  
  
  


• Camera
  
  
  
  • Further optimized the HDR feature experience
  
  
  • Further improved the camera performance
  
  
  
  


• Network
  
  
  
  • Fixed the issue of unable to enable the Wi-Fi hotspot
  
  
  
  


• Gallery
  
  
  
  • Optimized the UI effect, bringing better experience
  
  
  • Improved the loading speed of previewing pictures
  
  
  
  

As you can see, the update has brought many fixes for the system, camera, network, and Gallery. The brand has improved the HDR optimization and the performance of the device. Further, they have also fixed the issue of not enabling Wi-Fi hotspots which was faced by some users. The update doesn't mention anything related to the change in the security patch. The brand has informed us that the update will be pushed via OTA (Over the Air). The OTA update will be pushed to only a few users initially, and at a later stage, it will be pushed to all the users.



The users who had received the update are requested to give feedback to confirm that there aren't any significant issues. Click here to share your feedback on the update. With that said, there is no manual link for installing the new update. If you didn't receive the notification regarding updates, then head to Settings and tap on About phone. Then click on Software Updates to see whether the update has reached your OnePlus Nord 2 5G. Would you please share the article with your fellow OnePlus Nord 2 5G users?

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Verizon Motorola Razr receives the Android 11 update!

Motorola was one of the first brands along with Samsung to launch foldable smartphones. Back in November 2019, they launched their first foldable device, which is the Motorola Razr. The phone didn't make up to the hype when it comes to sales numbers, probably because of the mid-range chipset inside it. However, it managed to sell some units in the US and other countries. With that said, the Motorola Razr came with Android 9 out of the box. Later, they had pushed the Android 10 update for the smartphone. Last year, they had promised that the device would receive the Android 11 update.



The brand has pushed the Android 11 update for the Motorola Razr in the US by performing their promise. It has been eight months since the announcement of the Android 11 update for the device. Verizon, via a blog post, has informed us about the rollout of the Android 11 update. Apart from the bump up to the new Android version, they have also bumped up the security patch to July 2021. It will receive the popular Android 11 features like the new media controls, Conversations, chat bubbles, and much more. With the new Android 11 update, the device will not receive any further OS upgrades. We expect that Moto will continue pushing security updates for the upcoming year too. The new update comes with the build number RPV31.Q2-62-7-10. Here is the changelog of the latest update.

What's changing:

The current software update provides Android OS 11 and gives you the most up to date Android security patches on your device.

Android OS 11 Update

Android OS 11 is optimized for how you use your phone. Say hello to new and improved powerful device controls, easier ways to manage conversations, privacy settings, and so much more. So what’s new on OS 11 for your motorola smartphone?

• Manage Conversations


• Better communicate with the people in your life with Conversations and Chat Bubbles. See, respond to, and control your conversations across multiple messaging apps. All in the same spot. Then select people you always chat with. These priority conversations show up on your lock screen. So you never miss anything important.


• Control Connected Devices in One Place


• Simple, streamlined device and media controls allow new ways to control your compatible connected devices. Set the temperature to chill, then dim your lights. All from a single spot on your phone. Just long press the power button to see and manage your connected devices. Making life at home that much easier.


• Your Data, In Control


• Decide how and when your data is shared by setting one-time permissions and other new features. Give one-time permissions to apps that need your mic, camera or location. The next time the app needs access, it must ask for permission again.

The update is rolling via OTA (Over the Air), and most of you might have received the notification regarding the same. Suppose you didn't receive the notification, head to Settings and choose the About phone menu. Finally, tap on System updates to check for updates. Moto has already pushed the Android 11 update for the 2020 Motorola Razr 5G; it came with Android 10 out of the box.

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Vivo X70 series and Galaxy S21 FE receives Bluetooth SIG certification

2021 is becoming the year of production for all the major smartphone brands. Once again, Vivo and Samsung are almost ready to hit the market with one more flagship— the Vivo X70 series and Galaxy S21 FE. Recently, both devices have bagged the Bluetooth SIG certification. As always, the listing of the handsets has managed to reveal some key specs.

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Vivo X70 Series

Starting with the Vivo X70 series, the lineup could consist of two devices: Vivo X70 and Vivo X70 Pro. The model numbers for the duo are V2104 and V2105 respectively. Recently, the Pro variant of the series has surfaced on Bluetooth SIG, IMDA, and Geekbench authorities.

The arrival of the smartphone on three different certifications disclose new specs. As per Bluetooth SIG documentation, the phone supports Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. The duo has also managed to divulge at the Geekbench site. According to this, Vivo X70 Pro equips Dimensity 1200 chip paired with 12 GB RAM and Android 11 onboard.



The X70 series is expected to feature a 6.56-inch AMOLED FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Though we still don't know about the camera quality, the lens for the standard version may offer f/1.5 aperture and 5-axis image stabilization. Whereas the X70 Pro may feature gimbal stabilization.

Galaxy S21 FE

The Galaxy S21 FE by Samsung is getting leaked extensively. The device was supposed to launch alongside the Galaxy Z foldable series but it got delayed. The smartphone was previously spotted on TENAA, FCC, and few other platforms. Ahead of its launch, Galaxy S21 FE has now arrived on Bluetooth SIG.

The Galaxy S21 FE will have model numbers SM-G990B, SM-G990B_DS, and SM-G990N depending upon the region. The Bluetooth SIG certification only reveals the connectivity options for the phone i.e; Bluetooth 5.0.



As per TENAA, Galaxy S21 FE will arrive with Android 11 pre-installed and a dual cell capacity of 4,370 mAh. Further, the arrival of the handset at FCC discloses 45W of fast charging support.

The other specs of Galaxy S21 FE could include a 6.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz high refresh rate. Alongside, it is likely to power Snapdragon 888 and One UI 3.1. Additionally, the phone is likely to offer a 12MP rear main camera and a 2MP selfie snapper.

Read more: Vivo is reportedly working on a smartphone with a detachable flying camera

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[Update: System Optimization] Poco M3 Updates Tracker

In November 2020, the Xiaomi-owned brand— Poco introduced a new device at the lowest price called Poco M3. The smartphone has a 6.53-inch IPS LCD display paired with up to 128GB of storage and 6GB RAM. Beneath the screen, the phone runs Snapdragon 662 processor and Android 10 based MIUI 12 pre-installed. It has a 48MP triple rear camera and a single 8MP sensor for selfies.

Must see: What is Android Instant Tethering and How to use it (Complete Guide)

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated frequently with the Poco M3 smartphone updates.

Poco M3 Updates Tracker

Keep in note that the updates are arranged in descending order i.e; the latest one at the top followed by the previous updates.

• [August 13, 2021]: Xiaomi is sending a new software update to the Poco M3 smartphone units in India. The current stable update can be identified by the firmware version V12.0.7.0.QJFINXM. Though the build does not bring any new additions. However, it optimizes the device's performance by increasing the system stability and reducing the lags in the performance of the handset.

As usual, the updates are spinning out in batches which means they will roll out to certain users initially. After the successful verification, everyone will receive the package within a week. You can also check the update status manually by navigating to Settings > Software updates > Check for updates.

Related: [Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy S21 series Update Tracker

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Google is rolling out a new time picker UI for Android apps inspired by Material You theme

Earlier this year, Google revealed its Android 12 based Material You at the Keynote I/O 2021 event. so far, several apps have adopted the new design while others are under way. Google specifically has update Gboard, Messages, Chrome, and more apps in the past few months. Now, for the first time, the company is updating the time picker UI with the Material You theme in its Android apps.

Make sure to visit: Get official Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro wallpapers for free!

As Material You is all based on personalization, the new time picker UI is also more user and touch-friendly. Once updated, the spacing for setting time i.e; hours, minutes and AM/PM tabs are improved, making it more convenient to manage.



While adjusting time via the keyboard, the refreshed user interface uses the maximum available space. The time field now takes a major part of the room rather than the “Set time” header. So is the case with AM/PM buttons. Unlike before, these are more distinguishable.

The redesigned time picker UI is unfurling to several Google apps. You can notice the change while setting Assistant Reminders in Google Search. Additionally, Google Keep version 5.21.301.10 is also adopting this new theme. Though the major apps like Google Clock, Task, Calendar, Weather, and more are yet to grab the overhaul.

Read more: Google Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro are official with a custom Tensor processor

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The new WhatsApp update allows to view status by clicking on profile photo

The social networking platform, WhatsApp is regular in refreshing its features to make it more user-friendly. The company has recently rolled out joinable group calls features alongside the multi-device support, View Once photos, and more. Moreover, it is testing image and video quality features as well. The latest feature of the app will allow the user to view status directly by clicking on the profile photo.

Make sure to visit: FMWhatsapp V8.93 update rolling out with several fixes and improvements

In the present version, you have a separate section to view your contact's status updates. With the new update, the process will be made easy as you can directly see the status from the chat section. In short, all you have to do is tap on the profile picture of the contact and select the view status update option.

Similar to Facebook or Twitter, when you click the contact's profile picture, you will see two options— view status update or view profile photo. The view status feature was spotted in the WhatsApp Android beta version number 2.21.17.5. That implies the trait is currently under the development stage.

As of now, we are not sure when the feature will have a public rollout. It is still under testing and is not available even for WhatsApp beta testers. So, don't get impatient if you are not able to view the feature as it might take some time to go in a stable phase.

Read more: Google unveils Android 12 Beta 4 update with several new changes

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Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G key specs disclosed in render leaks

Samsung is preparing to hit the market with one more mid-ranger flagship, Galaxy A52s 5G. The device will be the cheaper version of the Galaxy A52 5G launch in March this year. With the approaching time, the upcoming smartphone has managed to leak online revealing some of its key specs. Let's have a look at them.

Make sure to visit: [Download] Samsung updates its Photo Editor App with new additions and changes

As mentioned, Galaxy A52s 5G is a refreshed version of the standard Galaxy A22 5G. Smartphones differ in the department of chipsets. Here is a detailed look at the new variant.

Similar to Galaxy A52, the refresh version will also feature a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display. The panel will be protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5 shield offering a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen will offer a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and 405 PPI pixel density. It will measure 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm and weighs 189 grams.

Coming to the contrasting part, Galaxy A52s will equip an octa-core processor-based Snapdragon 778G, making it 5G capable. The European variants are likely to offer 6GB RAM and 128GB of internal storage. While there's also a chance of an 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage model. Also, there are chances that the device is enabled to house an external memory card for memory expansion.



Considering Samsung's performance, Galaxy A52s is likely to arrive with the Android 11 operating system along with OneUI 3.1 on top. Additionally, as a 5G-enabled device, it will support faster connectivity options including 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and NFC.

In the shooting department, the Galaxy A52s houses a quad-camera module consisting of a 64MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, and a couple of 5MP lenses to measure macro and depth aspects of the picture. On the other hand, the phone will probably carry a 32MP camera to serve selfies and video calls.



Furthermore, the Galaxy A52s 5G will ship with a 4500mAh battery with 25W of fast charging support over a USB Type-C 2.0 charging port. For security purposes, it has an under-display fingerprint scanner. At the top, the handset is IP67 rated for dust and water-resistant, protecting it from any kind of damage.

Related: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 vs Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: Comparison

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Xiaomi Mi Pad 5 Pro 5G is receiving its first update in China

After three years of gap, Xiaomi finally released its next tab flagship— Mi Pad 5 5G and Mi Pad 5 Pro 5G. It seems like the Chinese giant will take special care of the devices. It's not been even a week since the release of the smart and the Mi Pad 5 Pro 5G is grabbing its first software update in the home country.

Must see: Download Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold wallpapers

The fresh update for the Xiaomi Mi Pad 5 Pro 5G is available for the Wi-Fi variants in China. The Android 11 OS build is arriving on the firmware version V12.5.7.0.RKYCNXM weighing 4.1GB in size.

The software brings a major overhaul to the overall performance of the device. It includes a variety of new additions and optimizations across several apps including Notes, Gallery, Music, Weather, and Calendar. Moreover, the system's theme, lock screen, recents, and keyboard are getting new surprises. Refer to the below changelog for precise details.

Changelog

• Notes
  
  
  
  • New: Rotate and scale the items selected by the stylus
  
  
  • New: Black background for handwritten notes
  
  
  • New: Designated folder for the notes made with a stylus
  
  
  • New: Text recognition for handwritten notes
  
  
  • New: Switch writing tools and adjust stroke width by pressing the stylus buttons
  
  
  • Optimization: Overall stability
  
  
  
  


• Lock screen
  
  
  
  • Optimization: Instructions for adding a fingerprint
  
  
  
  


• Themes
  
  
  
  • Optimization: Default wallpaper
  
  
  
  


• Gallery
  
  
  
  • New: Keyboard shortcuts
  
  
  • New: Marker, pen, and eraser for editing screenshots
  
  
  • Optimization: Taking and editing screenshots is more convenient now
  
  
  
  


• Music
  
  
  
  • New: Music player in the Control center
  
  
  • New: Audio playback can now be cast to other devices via the Control center
  
  
  • Optimization: Landscape mode in Mi Music
  
  
  
  


• Weather
  
  
  
  • Optimization: Managing locations
  
  
  
  


• Stylus & keyboard
  
  
  
  • New: Partial screenshots
  
  
  • New: System shortcuts
  
  
  • Optimization: Settings for keyboards and styluses
  
  
  • Optimization: The process of pairing a stylus
  
  
  
  


• Recents
  
  
  
  • New: Apps can now be opened in a floating window in Recents
  
  
  
  


• Calendar
  
  
  
  • Optimization: Month view
  
  
  • Optimization: Animations for switching between different views
  
  
  • Optimization: The process of creating an event
  
  
  
  

As usual, the OTA rollout will take time to reach all units. But you can also track the update via the Settings app > Software update > Download and install. If you can not wait for the build to arrive, you can tap on the links below to manually apply for the OTA versions.

Download Recovery ROM

Download Fastboot ROM

Related: Xiaomi is releasing MIUI 12.5 update to Poco X2 in India

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Comparison: Galaxy S Pen Pro v/s Galaxy S Pen

With the first Galaxy Note device launch in 2011, Samsung introduced the S Pen compatibility. The Pen is designed to provide the experience of writing with a real pen and is a perfect fit for on-the-go multitaskers. Though the Korean giant has skipped the Note series this year, the Z Fold series is taking over the Note flagship in offering ultimate productivity.

Must see: Comparing the partners: Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G v/s Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G

At the Galaxy unpacked event 2021, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3. For the first time Samsung has introduced S Pen support on a foldable smartphone i.e; Z Fold 3. However, the device does not arrive with S Pen out of the box. But it is compatible with both options: S Pen Fold Edition and S Pen Pro.

If you are wondering what is S Pen Fold Edition and S Pen Pro? what is the difference between the two? Here on this page, we attempt to clear your doubts by clarifying the similarities and differences between the twins.

Similarity

Needless to say that S Pen Fold Edition and S Pen Pro offer all the creativity and productivity options. Both of the Pens are specifically engineered with a rounded and retractable Pro tip that uses force limit technology. This special crafting protects the screen of the supported device and lowers the risk of scratching. With lower latency for true-to-life composition, Samsung claims these to be the best S Pen experience so far.

Differences

• Compatibility

While the S Pen Fold edition is only compatible with the Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G. The S Pen Pro is capable to assist all Samsung devices that offer S Pen support. Below is the list of devices that are compatible with the S Pen Pro.

• Galaxy Z Fold 3


• Galaxy S21 Ultra


• Galaxy Note series


• Galaxy Tab S7 FE


• Galaxy Tab S7/7+


• Galaxy Tab S6 Lite


• Galaxy Tab S6


• Galaxy Tab S4


• Galaxy Tab S3


• Galaxy Tab Active Pro


• Galaxy Tab Active 3


• Galaxy Tab Active 2


• Galaxy Tab Active


• Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2019 with S Pen


• Galaxy Tab A 10.1 2016 with S Pen


• Galaxy Tab A 9.7 with S Pen


• Galaxy Tab A 8.0 2015 with S Pen


• Galaxy Note Pro – 12.2


• Galaxy Note 8.0


• Galaxy Note 10.1 2012/2014


• Galaxy Book Pro 360


• Galaxy Book Flex 2


• Galaxy Book Flex S Pen


• Galaxy Book Flex 5G


• Galaxy Book Flex α S Pen


• Galaxy Book 10.6


• Galaxy Book 12.0


• Chromebook Plus V2


• Chromebook Pro


• Notebook 7 spin


• Notebook S51 Pen


• Notebook 9 Pen


• Notebook 9 Pro

• Weight and size

The standard S Pen weighs 6.7g and is shorter than the Pro version that weighs 13.8g. The Fold edition of the S Pen is the same as before featuring a short, thin, and handy design. Whereas, the S Pen Pro is much taller and thicker.

Due to these properties, the S Pen Pro has to be carried separately as it can not be housed in the phone. While the regular version arrives with a cylindrical case that can be used to carry the S Pen safely along with the phone.

• Connectivity

The S Pen Pro offers a wide range of connectivity as it is capable to tie up multiple devices simultaneously. A toggle switch enables the user to switch between the Z Fold 3 and other supported devices. Moreover, it allows gesture commands and remote functionality over Bluetooth connectivity.

Additionally, the S Pen Pro also needs to be charged. To serve this, there's a USB type C port on the top to get the pen working again. In case you misplace or lose the Pro Pen, it can also be tracked via the SmartThings app.

• Functionality

The standard S Pen is meant for regular and casual use like take notes or draw/erase on the screen. The S Pen for foldable does not support any connectivity option and is similar to the previous versions.

If you are using the S Pen Pro on multiple devices, you must know it has an onboard memory feature. That means you can copy the data from one device and paste it into another one! On top of this, the pen also has the ability to click photos from within the device's camera and air commands.

Conclusion

With the above differences, we hope that your confusion is now clear and you can finally make a decision of your own. Also, you should know that the S Pen Fold Edition is worth $49.99 while the S Pen Pro costs double at $99.99.

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