Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Google Maps may show you the toll cost in a future update

Calculating toll fares during a road trip can be confusing. Google with its constant tweaks in the Maps app may have a solution for us. The future Google Maps update may add the most requested feature. According to a message received by the members of the Google Maps preview program, the next update will automatically show the toll fees for roads, highways, or any navigation route set.

Google Maps

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Reportedly, a member of the preview program confirmed that they were asked to perform a survey to develop the Maps and the best way to implement this feature. As per the message, the total toll prices will be shown while selecting the driving route. This will help the user to make a better decision on which route to take in order to save time and money.

In the present version, you can see the toll roads through your way on a general map or navigation route. However, the toll price is not included. FYI, this feature is already present in the Google-owned Waze app for the past three years. Hopefully, the feature will make its way to Google Maps soon.

Apart from the survey that Google Maps preview members are asked to undertake, there is no other information in the message. We hope that the members will develop a feature that will be user-friendly and easy to use for everyone.

As of now, the feature is not even available for the members of the preview program. So, we can not expect the beta to arrive soon. Ultimately, the update is far away to have a stable rollout.
Read more: Android Auto gets Yandex.Maps; an alternative to Google Maps

OnePlus Nord N10 5G picks up OxygenOS 11.0.1 update

The OnePlus Nord N10 5G was released last year with Android 10 pre-installed. Last month, OnePlus released the Android 11 update for the Nord N10 5G. Later, the device received the new OS-based skin, OxygenOS 11. Though, the handset is eligible to grab only one major OS update. The company is still giving a bump to the customized skin with OxygenOS 11.0.1.

Nord N10 5G

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The OxygenOS 11.0.1 update for the Nord N10 5G is announced via the official OnePlus community forum. According to the brand, as of now, the European regions are getting the hit through the firmware version 11.0.1BE89BA. A similar package on build number 11.0.1BE86AA will make its way to North America​ soon.

Talking about the changes, the new software enhances the privacy and safety of the device by inculcating the current security maintenance, August 2021. Alongside, the changelog claims to improve the system performance for smoother functioning. Moreover, the network connections are now improved. Precisely, the internet connection is refined to ensure a trouble-free browsing experience. Similarly, the Wi-Fi signal connection is also optimized. Below is the official changelog issued by OnePlus

Changelog



  • System

    • Improved system performance

    • Updated Android security patch to 2021.08



  • Network

    • Improved internet connection and optimize Wi-Fi signal




As usual, before initiating a border rollout, the update will be pushed to a limited number of users to ensure its stability. Also, we recommend you maintain at least 50% of the battery for a seamless updating experience.
Read more: OnePlus 8T gets OxygenOS 11.0.10.10 (NA & EU) and 11.0.9.9 (IN)

Monday, August 23, 2021

Asus updates ROG Phone 5 with July 2021 security patch

In April 2021, Asus unveiled the ROG Phone 5. Since then, the company has released a handful of updates that refresher the gaming experience. Once again, the smartphone is grabbing a similar update with the July 2021 security patch.

Asus ROG Phone 5

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The latest software update for the high-end smartphone arrives on firmware version JP_18.0840.2107.151. Concluding from the ‘JP’ in the build number, we can say that the software is presently live in Japan. The ROG Phone 5 units in other regions will hopefully get similar treatment soon.

Asus is one of the few companies in the gaming hardware business, the ROG series has been its feather on the cap. The introduction of ROG Phone 5 boosted up the gaming segment. Moreover, the device can handle extensive gaming hours, media playback, and any other activity along with super-responsive touch.

Regarding changes, the package enhances the device's security by inculcating the July 2021 security patch. Moreover, it refines the user experience by improving the performance while playing videos. Also, the Air Triggers usage performance is now enhanced.

Changelog



  • Google Security Patch Update (July 5, 2021)

  • Improved performance when playing videos

  • Improved performance when using Air Triggers


As most of the updates take place, this FOTA build is also unfurling to different serial numbers by batches. Accordingly, it may take a while to reach out to your device. Alternatively, you can navigate the update by heading to Settings > System updates > Download and install.
Read more: Asus releases a new update for ZenFone 8 with the July 2021 security patch

Comparing the new high-rangers: iQOO 8 Pro vs Xiaomi Mix 4

This month, iQOO and Xiaomi introduced two high range smartphones— iQOO 8 Pro v/s Xiaomi Mix 4. Both smartphones cost the same i.e; € 660 (~INR 57,000). Though they share some common specs but still differ in some areas. Here we will emphasize the differences between the two devices based on their key specs and other details.

iQOO 8 Pro vs Xiaomi Mix 4

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Talking about similarities, iQOO 8 Pro and Xiaomi Mix 4 offers an HDR10+ panel with a 120Hz refresh rate that supports Dolby Vision. The smartphone does not allow the user to expand memory but it provides UFS 3.1 type storage with up to 512GB configuration with 12GB RAM.

Underneath the screen, iQOO 8 Pro and Mi Mix 4 run the latest stable channel, Android 11 with OEM's respective skin. An octa-core processor-based Snapdragon 888+ 5G chipset powers the devices paired with Adreno 660 GPU. A 4,500 mAh battery backs up the handsets with 120W of fast charging support and 50W of fast wireless charging. 

The other similarities include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and GPS connectivity. Alongside, the smartphones have an under-display fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass on board.

Now that we are aware of the indistinguishable aspects of iQOO 8 Pro and Mi Mix 4, let's see the non-identical details of the devices. In short, the handsets are at odds in terms of display, camera, platforms, and more. See the table below for a better understanding.

[table id=26 /]

We hope that now you can make a smart choice between iQOO 8 Pro and Xiaomi Mix 4. Stay tuned with the GoAndroid team for more information and news about Android.
Related: Comparison of Honor 50 Pro vs Mi 11 Lite 5G: Upper Mid Range Devices

Android 11 update for Nokia 3.4 is hitting the wave 1 markets

HMD Global is not performing well if we talk about releasing updates. After unfurling Android 11 to Nokia 1.3 and Nokia X20 5G. A Geekbench report suggested that Nokia 3.4 will get the latest stable Android version. It seems that the listing stands true as the Android 11 package is rolling out to Nokia 3.4.

Nokia 3.4

Make sure to visit: Android Studio Arctic Fox is now official to download with V2020.3.1

Though the company has not published the official changelog. However, the firmware will bear all that we expect from Android 11. The new operating system will add chat bubbles, notification history, priority chat function, improved media controls, one-time-permission improvements, dark theme schedule, smart device controls, and many more features.

The news was released via an official Nokia community post which stated, “Android 11 update for the Nokia 3.4 will be rolled out in waves to ensure a smooth rollout." The first wave of rollout comes in almost 40 countries including India. Check out if your device will drive Android 11 from the list below.


  • Australia

  • Austria (A1 AT, T-Mobile AT)

  • Bahrain

  • Belgium

  • Cambodia

  • Denmark

  • Egypt

  • Estonia

  • Finland

  • France

  • Germany

  • Hong Kong

  • Iceland

  • India

  • Iran

  • Iraq

  • Jordan

  • Laos

  • Latvia

  • Lebanon

  • Lithuania

  • Luxembourg

  • Macau

  • Malaysia

  • Nepal

  • Netherlands

  • Norway

  • Oman

  • Philippines

  • Portugal

  • Qatar

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Spain

  • Sri Lanka

  • Sweden

  • Switzerland

  • Thailand

  • UAE

  • Vietnam





According to the Nokia community post, the update is live to 30% of these approved markets. While 50% of the countries will receive the build by August 21st and 22nd. After the successful planned rollout, all these markets will be hit by the Android 11 for Nokia 3.4.
Read more: [Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Nokia 7.2 Updates Tracker

Saturday, August 21, 2021

Xiaomi is sending MIUI 12.5 update to the Redmi 8

The MIUI 12.5 skin by Xiaomi is a minor upgrade over the MIUI 12 that serves as a bridge to reach MIUI 13. Earlier this month, the Redmi 8 trio has already received the latest build in India. Now, the Redmi 8 is grabbing a similar treatment globally that comes with Android 11 based MIUI 12.5.

Redmi 8

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As mentioned, the latest software for the Redmi 8 is rolling out globally in a stable phase. Arriving on build version V12.5.1.0.QCNMIXM, the package enhances the safety of the device by inculcating the July 2021 security patch alongside all the features of the skin.

Concerning features, MIUI 12.5 will refine your user experience. Also, the company has issued a detailed changelog for this update. Meanwhile, you can also check the best of the MIUI 12.5 feature in our dedicated article.

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.





  • 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.




As always, the OTA update is having an incremental rollout and will take time to reach all units. But you can also track the update via the Settings app > Software update > Check for update > Download and install. In case, you can also flash the recovery ROM by clicking here.

Related: Redmi Note 8T gets Android 11 update (Download link included) 

Xiaomi Mi 11T 5G surfaces on FCC with model number 21081111RG

Besides rapidly updating the current flagships, Xiaomi is also focusing on production. After the successful launch of the Mi 11 series which includes – Mi 11, Mi 11 Lite, Mi 11 Lite 5G, Mi 11i, Mi 11X, Mi 11X Pro, Mi 11 Pro, and Mi 11 Ultra. The Chinese giant is fabricating another device for the lineup, Mi 11T 5G which has recently bagged the FCC certification.

Xiaomi Mi 11T 5G

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Recently, the moniker was also confirmed by the IMEI database. Now that the smartphone has passed major certifications, we are getting closer to the launch. The listing of MI 11T 5G in these sites has revealed some key specifications.

As the name suggests, the smartphone supports a 5G network and has 7 5G bands on board including n5,n7,n38,n41,n66,n77, and n78. The FCC documentation divulges the design of Mi 11T 5G with a rectangular slot booked for the camera at the upper-left side of the device. Beneath, there's a company logo is placed at the bottom left corner.

Xiaomi Mi 11T 5G is expected to feature an OLED display offering a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the handset will probably keep the Snapdragon 888 chipset running. For shooting purposes, it is likely to house a triple rear camera consisting of a 64MP sensor alongside a flashlight. Mi 11T 5G will run the latest stable channel, Android 11 out of the box with MIUI 12.5 on top. Further, the device could ship with a 5,000 mAh battery with 65W of fast charging support.

At the time of writing this, Xiaomi has no official words regarding the launch, pricing, or availability of Mi 11T 5G. However, some leaks suggest that it could debut on September 23 at a global launch event at a price of INR 27,999.
Read more: Xiaomi pushes the MIUI 12.5 Enhanced Edition update to the first batch of eligible devices!

The first update for Galaxy Watch 4 is released ahead of its launch

After some leaks and rumors, Galaxy Watch 4 is now almost a week apart from us. Before the launch, Samsung decided to release the very first update to the upcoming wearable. The build emphasizes polishing the overall experience. This could probably work as a sale strategy as well.

Galaxy Watch 4

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The latest firmware version R8xxXXU1BUH5 weighing around 290MB will be waiting for you when you purchase the Wear OS-powered watch. According to the changelog, the software enhances the stability of the wearable. Alongside, it improves performance by fixing bugs, and refining existing features.

This is a gift from Samsung to the audience who have pre-booked or planning to buy the Galaxy Watch 4 or Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. The first build will be available through the wearable app and will reach out soon as the user syncs their smartwatch with the smartphone.

Galaxy Watch 4

Moreover, unlike the rest of Wear OS smartwatches, the one from Samsung will run the proprietary One UI launcher. This will help the bands to coordinate more smoothly with the Galaxy ecosystem. Additionally, if you have another new Samsung product, Galaxy Z Flip 3 in your hand, you can also sync the watch faces with the device.

The soon-to-launch wearables will run the latest version of Wear OS developed by the Samsung Google alliance. However, the virtual updating process is still the same. Also, Google claims that the new Wear platform will offer more apps and watch faces as well as fitness features from Fitbit.
Read more: [Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy A71 Update Tracker

Friday, August 20, 2021

Best Smartwatch for 10-Year-Old Kids in 2021

Just like smartphones, smartwatches are also becoming a persistent part of everyone's regular life. Be it aged people, adults, teenagers, or kids, smart wearables have proved to be imperative with their extensive features and continuous evolution.

Smartwatch

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Talking about the kid's smartwatches, you might be wondering why a kid would need a smartwatch? But let us tell you, there are several reasons for this.

  • Firstly, the smartwatches for kids come with parental control thus, are secure as they can comfortably give access to some limited features.

  • Secondly, With advanced options, the parents can also track the real-time location of their child using GPS.

  • Thirdly, All smartwatches now are pre-installed with health monitoring features. The BP, SpO2, stress level, heart rate, and several other aspects can be measured constantly, that too without putting in any extra effort.

  • Similarly, the watches offer activity monitoring features as well. Being physically active is undoubtedly important for everyone including kids. Where kids are busy with smartphones these days, this feature ensures that the child is active enough to live a healthy lifestyle.


Without further ado, considering the above points, let's move ahead and look at which are the perfect and Best Smartwatch smartwatch options for Your 10-Year-Old

Best Smartwatch for 10-Year-Old Kids in 2021




  • Apple Watch SE




The Apple Watch SE is the company's lower-cost Watch option offering several Series 6 features. Launched in September of 2020, the smartwatch offers an S5 chip, an optical heart rate sensor, an always-on altimeter, and fall detection, and more. Almost every feature of Series 6 is on board except the blood oxygen sensor and ECG.

Apple Watch SE

The watch is water-resistant to 50m and supports a gyroscope and accelerometer. That implies it can monitor steps taken, stairs climbed, and calories burned. Moreover, it monitors health in terms of checking heart rate, sleep tracking. Plus, the watch also enables to check orientation with the compass and make calls with SOS in case of any emergency.

Apple Watch SE can be used with a family setup with the LTE + GPS variant. It has a Retina LTPO OLED display with a screen size of 1.78 inches. The panel offers a 3D Touch display with 1GB RAM and 32GB of internal storage. The watch powers a Dual-core processor-based Apple S5 chipset that equips watchOS 7.0 on board. It supports wireless charging that gives a standby time of up to 18 hours.


  • Amazfit Bip U Pro




The Amazfit Bip U Pro will also motivate your child to be fit and active by providing continuous reminders (if enabled). The watch will track physical activities as steps walked, distance covered, calories intake, calories burned. Moreover, it keeps checking your heath by continuously monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and stress level.

Amazfit Bip U Pro

The wearable is a powerful combination of functionality and style that provides a 9 days battery backup on a single charge. Also, the watch can be paired with a smartphone to take easy control of notifications, music, and more directly on your wrist. It is waterproof and lightweight thus, comfortable to wear without any risk.

The 1.43 inch TFT LCD display of the watch gives you a comfortable viewing experience. Bip U Pro offers Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with Alexa support on top. With over 60+ sports modes, the watch is equipped enough to track almost every physical activity. It is compatible with both Android 5 and high versions or iOS 10 and above.


  • Fitbit Ace 3




With fun fitness activities and motivating challenges, Fitbit Ace 3 is specially designed for champs aged six and above. Like the rest of the smartwatches, this also tracks all-day physical activity including running, hiking, and cycling. The animated clock faces and rewards for fitness achievements prove to be attracting the age group.

Fitbit Ace 3

On top of that, it tracks sleep and enables bedtime reminders and silent alarms. Alongside, the wearable is waterproof up to 50 meters and offers heart rate tracking. The LiPo battery can last up to eight days and takes two hours to charge fully. To serve connectivity, the watch has Bluetooth v4.2 on board.

Fitbit Ace 3 features a PMOLED display with a 1.47-inch screen with a physical home button. The smartwatch is compatible with both Android and iOS platforms. To mention, the all-day data of the kid will be accessible to their parents via the Fitbit app.


  • Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3




Garmin Vivofit Jr 3 completes all the aspects you'd wish in a kids tracker. It makes physical activity fun for them by adding friendly competition with friends that can teach them about responsibility. The wearable is available in different themes like Iron Man, Disney Princess models, Avengers, and more.

Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3

It offers features like sleep tracking and records steps and movements taken throughout the day. The best part is it reports back to kids about their efforts and activity. The screen size measures 14.11mm each way and is extremely light to handle. Furthermore, there's an ICE screen installed, which enables them to put emergency contacts on the display.


  • Angel Watch




Angel Watch allows the parents to locate, monitor, and communicate with their kids while connected to an Android or iOS device. The tracker here is continuous and real-time via accurate multi-source location tracking with geofencing. The best part is there is no connection to the internet, so your little one is safe from all types of social distractions. 

Angel Watch

Along with this, you can contact your kid whenever he's not with you through Reliable cellular & HD Video calling and messaging. The wearable keeps an eye on the body temperature, Blood pressure, Blood oxygen, and heart rate. Like the above-mentioned watches, this also has a dedicated SOS button that will be beneficial in case of an emergency.

Angel Watch features a 240X240 pixel resolution with a 2 MP camera. It equips a memory card slot that is compatible to house up to 32GB of expandable storage. Additionally, the wearable ships with a complimentary SIM card that also allows to block incoming out outgoing calls.


  • XPLORA X5 Play




Xplora X5 Play is not specially designed for kids but is a good option to go for. The wearable is equipped to perform all the functions of a typical smartwatch. This includes making and receiving calls from your contact book, receives and reply to messages in any form like emojis, images, or voice.

XPLORA X5 Play

To serve in an emergency, it carries an SOS button so the child can reach you easily and share the location. Concerning location services feature, the band has multiple services to show the device's location. Also, key locations like home and school can be set as primary Safety Zones.

Xplora X5 Play is compatible with a range of networks and can even be connected to WiFi to lower costs. Underneath the 1.4-inch screen, the watch has a SpeedTalk Mobile SIM and a 2 MP camera with 4GB of storage. Also, it is IP68 rated Water resistant up to 1.5m.


  • TickTalk 4




TickTalk 4 is a 4G/LTE-enabled smartwatch crafted for the age group between 5-12. Serving new parental controls, locating capability, and reminders the watch is also a secure platform for messaging and video/ voice calling. It streams free music by iHeartRadio offering thousands of kid-friendly songs, podcasts, stories, and more. Also, the watch has a dual 5MP selfie and video recording camera.

TickTalk 4

Like other standard watches, this one also keeps track of walking and counts steps. The wearable aims to provide technology with a focus on safety, connection, and building better habits. The parents will instantly receive a notification in the TickTalk app if the kid adds any new friends to the list. You kid can also compete with others in Step Championship and earn gold, silver, and bronze medals.

With extra parental control features like watch calls and text logs, TickTalk 4 allows no internet or social media access. So, your child is safe with zero distractions. In addition to real-time location, the parents can also access the past locations and track the lost watch using Wi-Fi, GPS, or cellular tower signals.


  • Little Tikes




Little Tikes is different from all of the watches listed above. It flaunts a playful design with moveable robot arms and legs. Sounds fun right? well, this adds on the sound effects and 100+ expressions. This will keep your champ busy dancing, playing, learning, and more. The watch has a lot of games pre-installed like an up and active augmented reality Search & Seek game, dance activity game, and more.

Little Tikes

Playing these games unlocks some rewards that encourage them to play more. Moreover, it's a fully functional wearable with a clock, calendar, stopwatch, timer, reminders, and alarm clock. Also, there's a dual native camera to record videos and capture pictures that can be edited by adding fun and silly stickers. 

Little Tikes features a kid-friendly touchscreen backed up by a rechargeable battery over a micro-USB cable. Measuring 6.99 x 13.72 x 27.94 cm in dimensions, the watch weighs 322g. It can store a maximum of 3,000 photos or 30 minutes of video.

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