Friday, September 3, 2021

Samsung sends Google Messages app to Galaxy Watch 4

It's not been even a week since the launch of the Galaxy Watch 4 and Samsung is sending another update for the wearable. The Watch 4 series are the first smartwatches to run Wear OS 3.0 out of the box. To sync with the design and efficiency of the new operating system, Google is rolling out the Messages app to the Galaxy Watch 4.

Galaxy Watch 4

Make sure to visit: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 vs Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: Comparison

Google has started rolling out the Messages app version 9.2.030 which is more refined and improved. The update is unfurling to both new and old smartwatches. That implies apart from the Galaxy Watch 4, you can also install it on any other smartwatch (from any brand) running Wear OS 2.0.

The Google Messages v9.2.030 features a new design with rounded corners. Also, the blue color of the app is now replaced by a true black shade. Moreover, the UI elements of the app are now identical to the latest Google Maps.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="large" td_gallery_title_input="Galaxy Watch 4" ids="118824,118825,118826,118827"]

Using a keyboard or quick replies, you can perform tasks like start a new thread, reply to messages, delete messages, and even call the person. Furthermore, in case you happen not to prefer the pre-installed Samsung Messages app on Galaxy Watch 4, you can dump it with Google Messages.

The last update for the wearable was a pre-release software that emphasized polishing the overall experience. It enhanced the stability of the Galaxy Watch 4. Alongside, it improved performance by fixing bugs and polishing existing features. To read more about the first update, visit our dedicated article.
Read more: Gmail gets in sync with the Material You theme on Android 12

Download Nova Launcher 7 Stable APK

Nova Launcher is one of the most popular third-party launchers. Its powerful and customizable home screen offers a complete overhaul and hassle-free experience. Almost after half a year, the platform is finally getting a new visual redesign and rewrite. The Nova 7 comes with new animations, styles, and features based on the latest AOSP.

Nova Launcher 7

Must see: Download Android 12 GApps for every Android device

Needless to say, the Nova 7 is refreshed with a new layout and styles. Though it only got a little modern as compared to the previous version. You can also notice improvements in gesture navigation on the Pixel devices.


Moreover, the new version brings new additions like the ability to add a customizable weather icon in the search bar. Also, the widgets radius can be adjusted to fit better and every icon can be force reshaped. Furthermore, you can assign swipe down or swipe up gestures to any Nova option, any app, or any shortcut.



Changelog



  • Visual refresh - Rebased on the latest AOSP launcher code and updated Nova specific code to match the latest animation and visual styles

  • Weather icon in search bar (Nova Settings > Search > Desktop Search Bar > Weather)

  • Swipe down action on icons (Requires Prime)

  • Enhanced Nova Search

  • Reshape themed icons and toggle reshaping per icon

  • Option for Android for Work apps in their own tab

  • Custom Widget Corner Radius (Nova Settings > Desktop > Widget corner radius)


[gallery link="none" size="large" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" td_gallery_title_input="Nova Launcher 7" ids="118812,118813,118811,118809,118810"]

FYI, Nova 7 was was first launched in Dec 2020 in the beta stage. After eight months of testing, the development can not be considered major noticing the changes. The app is available to download via the Google Play Store via version 7.0.45. Alternatively, you can tap on the button below and download the APK file.

Download Nova 7 APK



Read more: Microsoft Power BI apps update get new Goals to feature on Android and iOS

Gmail gets in sync with the Material You theme on Android 12

In June 2021 at the I/O 2021, Google revealed the Android 12 with a Material You design. The new and modern materialistic design approach with rounded corners everywhere. So far, the company has updated several apps with a new layout based on the theme. This includes Google Contacts, Gboard, Camera, Time picker, and more. The next to get in sync with the new overhaul is Gmail.

Gmail

Must see: Android 12 Beta 4.1 addresses the boot loop and VPN issue for Pixel devices

Material You theme extracts color from your wallpaper and apply it to the apps to give you a more personalized experience. Similarly, the overall design of the Gmail app is almost the same, the colors can be seen changed though. The texture is picked from the notification shade and app drawer.

Apart from this color difference, some other minor changes are arriving with the update.

  • If you notice the bottom bar closely, it is now a bit taller

  • A pill-shaped indicator will highlight the tab you're currently viewing. The tab here means the new additions to Gmail like Chat, Spaces, and Meet.

  • The main email list including compose, all tabs, and more will hold a lighter color shade.

  • The bottom bar, search field, and buttons will display a darker shade.


[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="large" td_gallery_title_input="Gmail" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="118801,118802,118803,118804"]

As usual, the changes are only available on Google’s own smartphone running Android 12 beta on version 2021.08.24.394054613. While the other Android smartphone users will have to wait to see this new wallpaper-based theming system. But do not worry, the new version is all set to launch soon.
Read more: Google is testing a new UI for the downloads and bookmarks page in Chrome

Thursday, September 2, 2021

OnePlus Watch update arrives with new additions and optimizations

The launch of the OnePlus Watch disappointed the users as they face several issues and flaws in the software experience. The company didn't meet the expectations either except for its design and battery life. So far, the brand has been trying to make it up by sending updates to the wearable. Again, there's a new software rolling out for the OnePlus Watch that adds new features and optimizations.

OnePlus Watch

Make sure to visit: The OnePlus Nord 2 explodes again, causing trauma to the user

The new additions and improvements are a part of the B.65 update that arrives on firmware version W301GB_B_65_0654. The package weighs 50MB in size and it refines the software experience making it more convenient and user-friendly.

The OnePlus Watch missed a smooth software experience, some fitness tracking features, and support for larger third-party apps. The new package covers it up a little by adding Spotify music mode and four new watch faces. Moreover, it now supports the real-time display of some navigation and mobile phone alarm reminder linkage. Additionally, it carries a couple of optimizations as well. Below is the official changelog issued by the company.

Changelog



  • Add

    • Spotify music mode, sync your Spotify playlist.

    • Support real-time display of some navigation, easy to watch the navigation by raising your hand.

    • Add 4 new watch faces, enjoy your new style!

    • Support mobile phone alarm reminder linkage.



  • Optimization

    • Optimize the sleep algorithm and make sleep detection smarter.

    • The vibration intensity can be adjusted in the watch settings to experience stronger vibration reminders.




Before flashing the update, make sure that the Bluetooth is connected and the watch battery is more than 40%. Also, don’t forget to keep your watch and connected phone close to each other.

As usual, the update is incremental and will roll out to limited users at first. A broader rollout will follow in the next few days. Alternatively, you can head to Manage > Device settings > Device update to give it a manual check.
Read more: Specs Comparison: Galaxy A52s 5G vs OnePlus Nord 2 5G

[Update: System improvement] ZenFone 8 series Updates Tracker

Asus launched the ZenFone 8 series in May 2021 that includes— ZenFone 8 and ZenFone 8 Flip. The duo equips an octa-core processor based on Snapdragon 888 5G and Adreno 660 GPU. Android 11 runs the devices out of the box along with ZenUI 8. Both smartphones carry a 64 MP primary sensor on the rear side.

ZenFone 8 series
Must see: Download Asus 6Z (Zenfone 6) Wallpapers [ High Quality]

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated constantly with ZenFone 8 series smartphone updates

ZenFone 8 series Updates Tracker



  • [September 2, 2021]: The ZenFone 8 is getting a new update that carries a couple of improvements The build arrives on firmware version JP_30.11.51.115 which is currently live in Japan. The update improves the system stability and the unlocking performance of fingerprint authentication.

  • [August 11, 2021]: The current update for the ZenFone 8 Flip inculcates some system and camera optimizations. The build bears the firmware version RU_30.11.55.82 and is rolling out in several regions. Click here to read about the update in detail.

  • [August 9, 2021]: ZenFone 8 is grabbing the July 2021 security maintenance with other improvements and optimizations. The build is unfurling in several regions through the firmware version RU_30.11.51.103. Visit our dedicated article to know about the changes.

  • [July 29, 2021]: The current update for the ZenFone 8 Flip inculcates the patch for July. The build bears the firmware version RU_30.11.55.66 which is live in several regions. Read about the other changes here.

  • [July 14, 2021]: ZenFone 8 Flip is receiving a new software update that brings the May 2021 security maintenance and more. The build is rolling out via firmware version RU_30.11.55.66. Talking about more changes, the package adds the AOC ‘Tap to show’ function along with optimizations in the system stability. But mainly, it emphasizes stabilizing the network and call aspects. Take a look here for precise details.

  • [June 22, 2021]: ZenFone 8 is grabbing a new software update in Russia via the firmware version 8_RU_30.11.51.67. the package brings a couple of fixes with some optimization in the system stability. Moreover, it improves the pocket mode threshold and detection. But mainly, the package emphasizes stabilizing the network aspects. Read the changelog here.

  • [June 21, 2021]: Asus is ready to deliver another software update to the ZenFone 8 Flip. For the worldwide variants, the build arrives on firmware version WW_30.11.55.57. Whereas, it can be identified by version RU_30.11.55.57 and EU_30.11.55.57 for Russian and European models respectively. The package emphasizes resolving network issues. Tap here to know more.

  • [June 13, 2021]: A new software update is making way to the Zenfone 8 as firmware 30.11.51.60. The update primarily focuses on optimizing the device stability for an overall better experience. They have also optimized the fingerprint scanner stability. After this update, users can expect slightly better battery life due to the alleged improvements to the system power consumption. Read more here.

  • [June 7, 2021]: Asus is pushing another software update for the ZenFone 8 Flip. The new build arrives on the firmware version RU_30.11.55.50. It brings a couple of additions which you can read here.

  • [May 28, 2021]: ZenFone 8 is getting a new update on build number 30.11.51.50 in the European market. The update enhances the system performance and stability along with the quality of the camera app. Moreover, the phone call quality is also optimized with the package. Refer to our dedicated page for changelog.

  • [May 20, 2021]: Asus is pushing another software for the ZenFone 8 Flip. The build arrives on the firmware version EU_30.11.55.39. The new software gives special attention to the camera app by improving its quality and fixing thumbnail issues in third-party apps. Additionally, the changelog mentions some fixes and enhancements that improve system performance and stability. Read these changes by tapping here.

  • [May 17, 2021]: It’s not been even a week and Asus is rolling a fresh software update to the ZenFone 8 series. The new software for the duo updates the firmware version 30.11.51.41 and 30.11.55.37 respectively. The package includes some new features with a couple of fixes along with a bump in the security level. Visit our dedicated article to see the new changes.


As usual, the OTA build is rolling out in batches, making it take more time to hit every unit. If you have an Asus ZenFone 8 or ZenFone 8 Flip, you will receive a pop-up notification anytime soon. Alternatively, you can flash the firmware via Settings app > System > System updates > Download and install.
Related: [Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Realme V15 Updates Tracker

Samsung launches the Wi-Fi variant of Galaxy Tab S7 FE in India

In June 2021, Samsung has introduced the Galaxy Tab S7 FE alongside Tab A7 Lite in the Indian markets. However, only the LTE variant of the Tab S7 FE was made available. After a couple of months, the Wi-Fi variant is finally launched in the country.

Galaxy Tab S7 FE

Must see: Download Galaxy Labs; New family of apps for Samsung devices

FYI, the variants may be different but the specs and other details remain the same. To recall, The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (Wi-Fi) features a 12.4-inch LCD display with 2560×1600 pixel resolution. It will offer 64GB of default internal storage paired with 4GB of RAM. Though there’s a MicroSD card slot via which you can increase the memory, but the headphone jack is missing from the device.

Under the hood, Galaxy Tab S7 FE will equip an octa-core processor-based Snapdragon 750G chipset. The latest stable channel Android 11 will run the device along with One UI 3.1. Alike the other version, it also packs an S-Pen stylus, book cover, and keyboard cover out of the box.

In the optics department,  the device will house an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP lens on the other side. A massive 10,090 mAh battery will back up the tab that will support 45 watts of charging. However, the device ships with a 15W adapter.

Price and Availability


The Galaxy Tab S7 FE (Wi-Fi) arrives in a single storage configuration that costs INR 41,999. The device is available in four color variants— Mystic Pink, Mystic Black, Mystic Silver, and Mystic Green. You can purchase the device from Samsung's official online store, Amazon, or other major offline and online stores.

Read more: Samsung Galaxy Wide5 spotted on Google Play Console

Galaxy Buds Pro get new features with the latest update

Both Galaxy Buds Pro and Galaxy Buds 2 were launched this year at a gap of six months. However, there are some features of Galaxy Buds 2 that are missing from the Buds Pro. But not anymore, with this latest software update, Samsung is sending new features to the formally launched buds.

Galaxy Buds Pro

Make sure to visit: Samsung Cloud v4.7.01.2 update now available for download

The new update for the Galaxy Buds Pro bears the firmware version R190XXUA0UH5. As mentioned, the package adds several features like Ambient Sound support during calls and Ambient Sound customizations. Also, after flashing the update, you can activate ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) with just one earbud. Additionally, it could probably bring some bug fixes and improves the device's stability.


To install the update, update the Galaxy Buds Pro plugin app on your connected smartphone to the latest version (3.0.21082751). As of now, the build is rolling out in the home country i.e; South Korea. It will hopefully make way to more regions in the coming days.


The last update for the Galaxy Buds Pro also bought improvements and a few other changes. The operating concept was changed when the user removes any side of the earbud. Moreover, it added improvements for the Active noise cancellation function, Ambient sound function, and system stability & reliability. To read more about these changes, visit our dedicated article.


Read more: Samsung unveils Galaxy A52S with Snapdragon 778G 5G Soc

[Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Galaxy Tab Active 2 Updates Tracker

Samsung officially launched the Galaxy Tab Active 2 in October 217 with Exynos 7870 Octa chipset. The phone features an 8.0-inch LCD panel paired with 16GB default storage and 3GB RAM. Under the hood, it powers Android 7.1.1 (Nougat) out of the box. The phone equips an 8MP rear camera sensor and a 5MP selfie shooter.

Galaxy Tab Active 2
Must see: [Download] Samsung updates its Photo Editor App with new additions and changes

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated with every build released for the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2.

Galaxy Tab Active 2 Update Tracker


The updates are placed in descending order i.e; the latest one can be seen at the top.

  • [September 2, 2021]: The Galaxy Tab Active 2 is getting an August 2021 security patch on AT&T and T-Mobile networks. The build arrives on the firmware version  T397UUESBCUG1 in the USA. The patch addresses 40 privacy and data security-related bugs and vulnerabilities. Also, it could probably carry some general bug fixes and device stability improvements as well.

  • [May 4, 2018]: Samsung is sending the April 2018 security patch to the Galaxy Tab Active 2. The OTA update is rolling out in Israel as of the T395JXU2ARD1 baseband version. Besides upgrading the patch, the build doesn't carry any significant changes. But it enhances the system stability and optimizes the performance.


As usual, the OTA update is having a phase-wise rollout. You can either wait for a pop-up notification or check it manually. To give it a self-check, head over to the Settings app > Software update and tap on Download and install
Related: [Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy S10/ S10 Lite updates tracker

[Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Realme V15 Updates Tracker

In the first week of 2021, Realme announced a new mid-ranger, Realme V15. The device holds a 6.4 inch Super AMOLED screen that offers up to 128GB of internal storage and 8GB RAM. Under the hood, it equips Dimensity 800U 5G Soc paired with Android 10 based Realme UI out of the box. Realme V15 carries a triple rear camera module lead by a 64 MP primary sensor. On the other side, there's a 16 MP shooter for selfies and video calls.

Realme V15

Must see: Download Realme Photos v8.7.38 App [Old Versions Archive]

Note: This is an update tracker and will be refreshed with every build released for the Realme V15 smartphone.

Realme V15 Updates Tracker


The updates are arranged in descending order. That implies you can see the latest build at the top followed by the previous releases

  • [September 2, 2021]: Realme is sending a new software update to the Realme V15 in China. Arriving on the firmware version C.03, the package carries the July and August 2021 security patches. Additionally, the package addresses a dozen of issues across the system to enhance the user experience. Read the changelog below to know in detail.


Changelog



  • System

    • Optimize the logic of the “Personal Hotspot” switch in the settings after the data saving is turned on

    • Fix the problem that the application power consumption management page displays abnormally in low probability under extreme operation



  • Photo album

    • Fixed the problem that when entering the album to view pictures, the time and battery icons are not displayed in the status bar probabilistically



  • Set up

    • Fix the problem that fingerprints cannot be entered in a very low probability

    • Fix the problem that the main user displays the sub-user setting interface with low probability in dark mode



  • Desktop

    • Fix the problem of incomplete display of icons on completion of application installation

    • Fix the problem that the lock screen application interface displays a white screen in a low probability

    • Mobile phone moving

    • Fixed the problem that the lock screen interface switched to the dark mode after the move was completed, and the probabilistic display problem was abnormal



  • Game

    • Fixed the problem that the download status of the background update package of Glory of Kings is displayed abnormally in the notification bar.

    • Fixed the problem that there is a low probability that there will be no notification after the game assistant turns on the barrage notification and the WeChat message



  • Security

    • Update Android security patch (2021.07/2021.08)




  • [March 30, 2021]: Realme has started sending the March 2021 Security Patch update to the Realme V15 users. The update is carrying out in China and it accompanies the build number RMX3092_11_A.29. Alongside, the package improves execution, camera quality, Network enhancements, and brings fixes for some known issues. To know the precise changes, visit our dedicated article.

  • [March 8, 2021]: Realme V15 is enjoying the February 2021 Security Update. The build comes with the firmware version RMX3092_11_A.27. It adds a picture crop feature while taking screenshots. Also, it improves the screenshot fluency on Add Clock page. The update additionally solves the disconnecting issues of automobile Bluetooth, noise issues of Bluetooth earphones, and lastly issues of WiFi automatically turning off while connecting to a hotspot.


As always, the updates are rolling out in batches. Therefore, it may take a while to reach all units. Alternatively, you can go to Settings > Software updates to track the build manually. Also, we suggest you maintain at least 60% battery before flashing any update.
Related: [Update: August 2021 Security Patch] Realme V3 Updates Tracker