Microsoft News apps renamed as Microsoft Start on Android and iOS

Microsoft News is the company's platform where the user can access news headlines and other features in a single app. The service is now renamed Microsoft Start to avoid confusion among users who are not aware of the shift in direction. Besides, the new update also features a new app icon and tweak in color scheme to bring the change in the notice.

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

After flashing the updated version of the app, the user will be asked to sign in to the Microsoft account again after a brief introduction slideshow. All the previous Microsoft News settings and preferences will be set to default. So, the user will have to filter sources again.

Apart from tracking the daily news, the app will provide access to daily tasks including browsing, weather support, and more. Here is the official release note for the Microsoft Start app update:

Stay up to date with breaking news and stories tailored to your interests from thousands of premium sources. Plus, get quick access to daily tasks, such as searching the web, checking the weather, shopping for necessities, and more.

The updated Microsoft News app is officially rolling out to the Android and iOS platforms in all the supported regions. The user will now see a refreshed icon named Microsoft Start.  However, the platform is yet to update for the Windows platform. FYI, the functionality of Microsoft Start is being integrated into the Widget pane in Windows 11.

Read more: Microsoft PDF Scanner and SMS Organizer app get updates with several changes

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Google will soon introduce an in-app calling feature on Gmail

The Gmail app is the email service platform by Google. Apparently, the app is transforming into a hybrid platform offering multiple services within the app besides mail. With all the newly added workspace features, Gmail is becoming the central hub for every Google communication app.

Make sure to visit: Optimize your Gmail Experience: Best Tips and Tricks (Complete Guide)

The users can now perform multiple tasks within the Gmail app apart from tracking their mails. The new feature will soon enable the user to call each other on Google Meet. But it can be done inside the Gmail app, not the Meet app. Though the standalone Meet app will get the ability to ring, it cannot create group meetings.

Once the in-app calling feature successfully rolls out, it will work like any other VOIP app. Thus, making it easy for users to take part in group calls. The email is now just another tab of Gmail besides Chat, Spaces, and Meet. In fact, the app will now become a hub for several services including one-on-one chats, group chats, videoconferencing, and calls.

“Google Meet calling is a seamless experience of initiating a video or audio call between one or more participants, complementing more structured, scheduled video meetings. Our intention is to bring Meet calling to all the natural endpoints in Workspace where you’d initiate an ad-hoc call including chats, people cards, and Spaces, but this will come first to one-to-one chats within the Gmail mobile app,” says Google.

The changes can take place in the Gmail app in the coming weeks. Also, it could be accompanied by other additions as well.

Read more: Google could release Android 12.1 after Android 12 instead of Android 13

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Google could release Android 12.1 after Android 12 instead of Android 13

The final beta of Android 12 is out for the new Pixel 5A 5G owners. Google has now confirmed that the stable version of the operating system is just weeks away. Also, While the forthcoming version is still awaited, its successor has already started surfacing online.

Make sure to visit: Oppo ColorOS 12 official wallpapers are out for download!

Where Android 12 will be the major overhaul in years, its successor version will reportedly be a minor update. Moreover, it will be called Android 12.1, not Android 13. The reports also claim that the new successor version will start unfurling soon with the launch of Pixel 6 smartphones.

It seems like while Google decides to develop Android 13, in the meantime, Android 12.1 will serve the users. The point update will change the user-visible version number. But, it will probably not be accompanied by a new API level. FYI, Google has mentioned that Android 12 delivers an API level 31 framework, so the developers are advised to update their apps to the level.

If we peek back at the time, it's been several years since Google has released the minor update versions of the Android operating system. In fact, the last point update was Android 8.1 Oreo launched in 2017. After four years of gap, this will be followed by Android 12.1.

Google has officially released the Android 12 developer beta preview at the I/O 2021 conference. The version is getting a complete overhaul with its new ‘Material You’ design which is highly customizable. The Android 12 OS is secure by default and private by design, making all your devices work better together. Read the best of Android 12 feature by hitting the button below

Best Android 12 features

Read more: Google sends September 2021 security patch update to Pixels devices

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Samsung winds up the monthly update support for Galaxy Note 9

From the year 2019, Samsung has done a commendable job in speeding up the frequency of updates. The Korean giant provides three years of regular update support to its smartphones including two major Android OS updates. As per the timeline, the Galaxy Note 9 has hit the target of three years and now it is no more eligible to grab monthly security updates.

Make sure to visit: Download Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Stock Wallpapers for Free

In a piece of good news, the Galaxy Note 9 isn't completely downgraded to receive any updates. In fact, the smartphone will now get quarterly security patch updates. Though it also indicates that the update support will come to an end soon.

The quarterly updates for Galaxy Note 9 will last for another year. After this time, the support will drop down to biannual updates. This as well will be followed for another twelve months. After this, the update support will be completely discontinued.

The Samsung was launched in August 2018 with Android 8.1 (Oreo). It has received two major Android updates and three years of regular security update support. The latest update for the device was the August 2021 security patch. This means the next update is not arriving until November 2021.

In other news, the Seoul-based brand has ended the software update support for Galaxy Note FE completely. The device was launched in July 2017 with Android 7.1.1 (Nougat). The Galaxy S8 Lite is also undergoing a similar treatment. The devices are not eligible to receive any updates in the future.

Read more: [Update: Support page goes live] Samsung Galaxy M52 5G spotted on FCC with model number SM-M526B

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Chrome OS 93 started rolling out today, here are all the changes

A week before, Google released the Chrome 93 to all platforms with brand new features. Now, the tech giant is releasing the Chrome OS 93 to Chromebooks. The latest version polishes the user experience to make it more reliable, secure, and easy. Keep scrolling to know these all-new features.

Must see: Download latest wallpapers by Google Chrome OS here

Chrome OS 93 Features

• 
  

  Speed up video playback

  
  

Chrome OS 93 will save your time by integrating playback speed controls into the media player. The speed controls can be used on all platforms running 93 or higher versions. But the time saved in this platform will be greater even in the case of lengthy videos.

• 
  

  Redesigned keyboard language settings

  
  

International users can now add multiple keyboards to change their preferred language. This includes some unique characters as well. You can now configure keyboard input more easily by customizing the language directly into system preferences. Moreover, the new keyboard UI features a Material You Design.
Head over to System preferences > Inputs > tap the small arrow in the Input methods section to see the change.

• 
  

  Improved launcher app management

  
  

Chrome OS 93 addresses the issue where the touchscreen launcher will not respond smoothly with a mouse. It introduces a tweak that will allow moving the apps more seamlessly. To experience this feature, tap and hold on to an app in the launcher and move it around.

• 
  

  See your important files at a glance

  
  

The tote feature in Chrome OS 93 will provide three previews of recently added screenshots or downloaded files. This helps the user to identify recently added documents and pinned files more easily, that too without clicking on Tote.

• 
  

  A better experience for incompatible Android apps

  
  

Chrome OS 93 emphasizes improving the stability of apps that don't respond well with Chromebooks. It will lock the window size to whatever screen the app is designed for. For instance, you can see a new menu in the center of the Gmail app's title bar. Tap on that bar and you will see three options— Phone, Tablet, and Resizeable. You can select the Resizeable option but Chrome OS will warn you that the app may restart or experience some issues.

• 
  

  See your stylus battery levels

  
  

With Chrome OS 93, the user will be able to see the battery level of their stylus. This will make it easier to estimate how long the battery will last and when to charge. The battery status will be displayed on the taskbar under stylus settings. Though, the mileage may vary depending upon your pen.

Miscellaneous Changes

• Linux apps for Chromebooks can use the Chrome OS file manager to select and launch files via the native file manager app.


•  The sharp edges of the Picture-in-Picture feature are replaced with rounded corners.
  


• In Chrome OS 93, the Scan app will automatically save your scan settings for future use


• Chrome OS 93 on Android 11 Chromebooks will trim RAM usage when Android apps are not in use or when there's low memory.


• The UI of spelling and grammar check settings in system preferences is now cleaner and is easier to configure.
  


• To ensure security, all users need regular online re-authentication to the login and lock screen. This also includes those who are using 2FA like Yubikeys or SMS.


• Unlike before, the admin can now allow Android apps to access Chrome OS user and device certificates.

Related: Chrome OS 92 stable release, here are the best features!

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WhatsApp allows hiding 'Last Seen' status from selected contacts

All the social networking apps let you see when your friends were last operating the platform. We can consider it a facility as it let us know when we can expect a reply. But there are always times when you don't want to respond, or don't want anyone to know you were up all night. WhatsApp seems to get the situation and make it easier by introducing some new tools.

Make sure to visit: FMWhatsapp Latest Version: Features and How to Install [APK]

Reportedly, WhatsApp is working to develop a feature where the users can manage the contacts who can see their profile details and last seen. Currently, the control over this information can either be set for everyone, your contacts, or no one. There are no customizable options, making it strict.

Things are going to change soon as WhatsApp is testing to enhance these privacy tools. After the successful verification, the user will be able to exclude selected contacts from seeing their status and profile. Once the feature rolls out, you'll be able to hide your "Last Seen" from dozens of people without disabling it altogether. And so will be the case with profile pictures and bio.



However, keep in mind that the disabling option will be a two-way street. That means if you are hiding your last seen, picture, or bio from a group of people in your contact list. You will also not be able to see their information.

The new WhatsApp privacy feature was spotted on iOS. But it will expand to other platforms when it's present in the stable phase.

Read more: WhatsApp will soon bring multi-device support to iPad and Android tablets

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Google sends September 2021 security patch update to Pixels devices

Like always, Google was supposed to release the current security maintenance on the first Monday of the month. However, this time the case changed as Monday happens to be a holiday in the US on the occasion of Labor Day. Therefore, the dispatch was delayed by a day. Google is finally rolling out the September 2021 security patch to the eligible Pixel smartphones.

Make sure to visit: Download Pixel 6 Ringtone (Android 12)

Though Google has started to release the September 2021 security patch to the eligible pack, it is yet to detail the security vulnerabilities addressed in the patch. We expect to see some reported bugs resolved along with some functional improvements.

The still-supported Pixels lineup includes the Pixel 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4 XL, 4a, 4a (5G), and 5 models. FYI, this will be the first-ever software update for the Pixel 5a smartphones. The changes on your smartphone will arrive in different versions depending upon your models which are as follow:

• Pixel 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL: RQ3A.210905.001


• Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 4a (5G): RQ3A.210905.001


• Pixel 5, 5a: RQ3A.210905.001


• Pixel 5a (North America): RD2A.210905.002


• Pixel 5a (Japan): RD2A.210905.003

The OTA update has started unfurling today across all the regions. But as always, the build will have an incremental rollout. Thus, it may take several days or weeks to hit all the units. Alternatively, you can also navigate the patch manually. To do this head over to Settings > System > Advanced > System update > Check for update.

Read more: Google is testing a new UI for the downloads and bookmarks page in Chrome

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[Update: September 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy M21 Updates Tracker

Samsung Galaxy M21 was dispatched in March 2020 with Android 10 pre-installed. The phone features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, a 48MP triple rear camera, and a 20MP selfie lens. There’s a 6,000 mAh battery backed up by 15W of fast charging support. It is powered by an Exynos 9611 (10nm) Chipset paired with up to 128GB and 6GB RAM onboard storage.

Must see: Download Galaxy M40 stock wallpapers and ringtones

Note: This is an update tracker and will be refreshed frequently with the updates of the Samsung Galaxy M21 smartphone

Galaxy M21 Updates Tracker

• [September 8, 2021]: The Galaxy M21 is grabbing a new update that inculcates the September 2021 security patch to the device. The build is rolling out in India and Sri Lanka on the firmware number M215FXXU2BUH6. To mention. Samsung is yet to detail this safety patch, it is likely to carry some general bug fixes and stability improvements.


• [March 31, 2021]: The Galaxy M21 becomes the latest device to get the One UI 3.1 update. The update weighing 960MB is currently rolling out in Indian markets carrying the firmware version M215FXXU2BUC8. Visit our dedicated article to know more about this package.

As usual, the OTA update is rolling out in batches. The Galaxy M21 users may have to wait a while to receive the update. Meanwhile, they can track the build manually. To do this, navigate to Settings > Software updates > check for the updates.

Related: [Update: September 2021 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Update Tracker

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Oppo ColorOS 12 official wallpapers are out for download!

Since the introduction of Android 12, all the major OEMs including Oppo have started working to develop their next-gen skin. Though Find X3 Pro was the first device by the company to get Android 12 Beta, it still misses ColorOS 12. Reportedly, the skin could unveil in mid-to-late September. It looks like the brand has taken its first step by releasing the ColorOS 12 wallpapers.

Make sure to visit: List of smartphones to get Android 12 based ColorOS 12

The vibrant ColorOS 12 wallpapers seem to be inspired by nature. The base color is pacific blue with a touch of hazel brown. Below is an overview of the wallpapers and you can grab your favorite one in their original quality from the link provided at the end of the page.

ColorOS 12 Wallpaper Preview

[gallery size="large" td_gallery_title_input="ColorOS 12 wallpapers" link="none" ids="118971,118972,118973,118974,118975,118976,118977,118978,118979"]

Download ColorOS 12 wallpapers

ColorOS 12 is being quoted as the “Best custom version of Oppo” in China due to its extensive and advanced features. The details are still undercover but the company is likely to offer a refreshed UI with enhanced personalization options. Moreover, it will provide more privacy controls and better transparency with new features.

Related: Download original iOS 15 Wallpapers for all of your devices

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