Redmi 9 and Redmi Note 9 get MIUI 12.5 Enhanced Edition update

Xiaomi is releasing the MIUI 12.5 enhanced edition update to all of its eligible flagships. So far, several devices have bagged the new update. The latest ones to join the long list are the 2020 launched Redmi 9 and Redmi Note 9.

Must see: Download Pixel 6 Ringtone (Android 12)

The update for the Redmi 9 and Redmi Note 9 is rolling out globally via the firmware versions V12.5.3.0.RJCMIXM and V12.5.2.0.RJOMIXM respectively. The package carries the extensive features of the new skin. Also, it bumps the security level to October 2021. But, the Redmi Note 9 is also grabbing a variety of fixes in the lock screen, status bar, and notification shade.

Changelog: Redmi 9

• MIUI12.5 Enhanced
  
  
  
  • Swift performance. More life between the charges.
  
  
  • Focused algorithms: Our new algorithms will dynamically allocate system resources based on specific scenes, ensuring a smooth experience on all models.
  
  
  • Atomized memory: Ultra-fine memory management mechanism will make RAM usage more efficient.
  
  
  • Liquid storage: New sensitive storage mechanisms will keep your system vibrant and responsive as time goes by.
  
  
  • Smart balance: Core system improvements allow your device to make the best of the flagship hardware specs.
  
  
  
  


• System
  
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to October 2021. Increased system security.
  
  
  
  

Changelog: Redmi Note 9

• MIUI12.5 Enhanced
  
  
  
  • Swift performance. More life between the charges.
  
  
  • Focused algorithms: Our new algorithms will dynamically allocate system resources based on specific scenes, ensuring a smooth experience on all models.
  
  
  • Atomized memory: Ultra-fine memory management mechanism will make RAM usage more efficient.
  
  
  • Liquid storage: New sensitive storage mechanisms will keep your system vibrant and responsive as time goes by.
  
  
  • Smart balance: Core system improvements allow your device to make the best of the flagship hardware specs.
  
  
  
  


• System
  
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to October 2021. Increased system security.
  
  
  
  


• Lock Screen
  
  
  
  • New: New fingerprint options
  
  
  • Optimization: App vault memory usage when the device is locked
  
  
  • Fix: Screen flashed after locking when Super wallpapers were used
  
  
  • Fix: Wallpapers flashed when Fingerprint unlock was used in some cases
  
  
  • Fix: Display abnormalities occurred when Fingerprint unlock was used with games
  
  
  • Fix: Issues with the fingerprint animation in several scenes
  
  
  • Fix: Fingerprint and Face unlock were turned off after a SIM card was installed
  
  
  • Fix: The screen flashed when Fingerprint unlock was used with Super wallpapers in some cases
  
  
  • Fix: “Raise to wake” turned off unexpectedly in some cases
  
  
  • Fix: Lock screen notifications didn’t disappear on time when Fingerprint or Face unlock was used in some cases
  
  
  • Fix: Screen flashed when Fingerprint unlock was used in some cases
  
  
  • Fix: No items except for the status bar were shown on the screen after using Fingerprint unlock
  
  
  • Fix: Issues with the Lock screen clock when third party themes and super wallpapers were used
  
  
  • Fix: Memory usage issues when charging animation was displayed
  
  
  • Fix: Using Face unlock and Fingerprint unlock simultaneously led to crashes in some cases
  
  
  
  


• Status bar, Notification shade
  
  
  
  • Optimization: Third-party theme compatibility for the Notification shade
  
  
  • Optimization: Dark mode adjustments for notifications
  
  
  • Fix: Floating notifications overlapped when the transparent background was used
  
  
  • Fix: Notifications weren’t displayed correctly when App lock was used
  
  
  • Fix: Cleaner animations weren’t displayed correctly
  
  
  • Fix: Notification shade couldn’t be opened in some cases
  
  
  • Fix: Notifications weren’t displayed correctly after missed calls
  
  
  • Fix: Issues with permissions after missed calls
  
  
  • Fix: Floating notifications flashed when the Second space was used
  
  
  • Fix: The clock wasn’t always displayed correctly in the Notification shade
  
  
  • Fix: Player controls weren’t always displayed in the Notification shade
  
  
  • Fix: Notification badges didn’t always appear
  
  
  • Fix: Backgrounds weren’t displayed correctly when notifications arrived and third party themes were used
  
  
  • Fix: Notifications weren’t always displayed correctly when “Raise to Wake” was used
  
  
  • Fix: Buttons weren’t always displayed correctly on the notifications when Dark mode was on
  
  
  
  

Read more: Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold will get a major update later this month

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iQOO released the Android 12 Beta roadmap

The new operating system, Android 12 is finally available in a stable phase. Every smartphone brand is busy crafting the timeline for the deployment of the same. Joining the list is the Chinese brand iQOO. The company has finally released its Android 12 beta roadmap for its smartphones.

Make sure to visit: Guide to install Android 12 Emojis on any Rooted Android Smartphone

As per the framed schedule, iQOO 7 will be the first device to receive Android 12 beta at the end of December 2021. This will be followed by iQOO 7 Legend, iQOO Z3, and iQOO Z5 at the same time period. Further, iQOO 3 is set to receive the build by the end of Q3 2022.

iQOO Android 12 Beta Roadmap

From End of December 2021

• iQOO 7


• iQOO 7 Legend


• iQOO Z3


• iQOO Z5

From the End Of March 2022

• iQOO 3

Read more: iQOO Z5x listed in GeekBench with MediaTek Dimensity 900 SoC!

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OnePlus Nord gets a new update with OxygenOS 11.1.6.6

In Q4 of 2020, OnePlus debuted its very first Nord sub-brand smartphone— the standard OnePlus Nord. The device boost Android 10 out of the box and later received the Android 11 update based on OxygenOS 11. The brand has now started to push OxygenOS 11.1.6.6 update to the device.

Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus System Launcher v12.0.50

The new update for the OnePlus Nord is rolling out in North America, India, and European regions. For the North American variants, the package arrives on build number 11.1.6.6.AC01AA. While the Indian and European models bear the firmware version 11.1.6.6.AC01DA and 11.1.6.6.AC01BA respectively.

Concerning changes, the package improves the system security by inculcating the October 2021 security patch. Also, it carries some general bugs fixes and system stability improvements. Further, there's a surprise for the EU and NA models. The users in the regions get access to the OnePlus Store which gives easy access to the OnePlus community in a tap.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Improved system stability and general bug fixes
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to 2021.10
  
  
  
  


• OnePlus Store（Only EU/NA）
  
  
  
  • An intuitive and convenient way to manage your OnePlus account, get easy-to-access support, discover exciting members-only benefits, and shop for OnePlus products. (Please note that it can be uninstalled)
  
  
  
  

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 Nord N10 5G picks up OxygenOS 11.0.2 update

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Redmi Note 8T finally receives Android 11 update globally

Where other OEMs are busy planning Android 12 rollout, Xiaomi is still not done with the deployment of Android 11. After the European units, the company is releasing the Android 11 update for the global variant of the Redmi Note 8T.

Make sure to visit: What is WhatsApp Plus and How it Differs from WhatsApp?

The Android 11 update for Redmi Note 8T brings a lot of new additions and optimizations to enhance the overall user’s experiences. The package is bundled with the firmware version V12.0.2.0.RCXMIXM. However, the update is released for pilot testers as of now. It will soon be available for the general public as well.

Though the changelog does not mention any specific features but, concluding from the package size which is 2.3 GB, we can say that it carries all that we expect from the new operating system.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Stable MIUI based on Android 11
  
  
  
  

Android 11 endorse all-new features to the device such as revamped UI, enhanced dark theme mode, in-build screen recorder, smart media control, lock screen conversations, one-time permissions, chat bubbles, and other improvements or customizations.

As mentioned, the software is currently available only for the Mi pilot testers. After assuring that there are no critical bugs, the company will push a border rollout. Also, the new MIUI is expected to roll out in the upcoming weeks.

Read more: Xiaomi Mi 12 leaks: ceramic body, Snapdragon 898 SoC, 5000 mAh battery

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List of Asus smartphones to get Android 12

With the stable release of Android 12, every smartphone brand has crafted its timeline for the rollout of the new version. The last one to join the group is the Taiwanese giant Asus. The company has finally shared its roadmap for the deployment of the latest operating system.

Make sure to visit: List of eligible devices to get Realme UI 3.0 update

As per the schedule, Asus plans to update six smartphones with Android 12 OS by the first half of the next year. According to the company, it will also introduce ZenUI-specific changes, tweaks in performance, and its own battery along with the upcoming software update.

The brand is still following the conventional two major Android update policy. That implies the devices following the ZenFone 6 and the ROG Phone 2 series will get the new Android version. Whereas, these smartphones will run Android 11.

List of Asus smartphones to get Android 12

From December 2021

• ASUS ZenFone 8 Flip


• ASUS ZenFone 8

From Q1 2021

• ASUS ROG Phone 5S


• ASUS ROG Phone 5

From H1 2021

• ASUS ZenFone 7


• ASUS ROG Phone 3

Read more: OnePlus ColorOS 12 update schedule: List of supported device

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 design and key specs leaked!

Usually, the Galaxy Tab S series is launched alongside the Galaxy Note series after the Q2 of the year. This time, Samsung seems to have canceled its plan. However, Galaxy Tab S8 is in the air that will probably debut in early 2022. But, we have some render leaks with us regarding the design and key details of the device.

Must see: Download new ChromeOS Wallpapers

Starting with the design, the leaks suggest that the Galaxy Tab S8 will flaunt a flat frame. The screen will house minimal bezels all around to hold the product. While the right bezel will house the front-facing camera. The other side will feature a vertically aligned dual-camera module followed by a magnetic strip to hold/charge the S Pen stylus, and of course, the Samsung logo.

The volume keys and power button, with embedded fingerprint sensor, will sit on the right side of the Galaxy Tab S8. The bottom side will provide a USB Type-C port and two speaker grilles on either side. Also, another two speaker grilles are managed at the top beside a secondary microphone hole at the center.



Heading to the specifications, the Galaxy Tab S8 is tipped to sport an 11-inch HD+ LCD screen. The slate can measure 253.75 x 165.30 x 6.24mm in dimensions. Also, the panel is likely to offer a 120Hz refresh rate and 1600 x 2560 pixels resolution.

Galaxy Tab S8 will draw power from Snapdragon 888 SoC under the hood paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. As far as software is concerned, we are not sure if it will boost Android 12 or Android 11. But it is confirmed to arrive with One UI skin. The device will pack an 8,000 mAh battery supporting 45W of fast charging.

Read more: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 grabs a new update, improving its stability

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Google Pixel users report several issues after the Android 12 update

Google unveiled the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro this week at the Pixel fall launch event. Alongside, the tech giant also released the stable Android 12 build for the Pixel 3 and higher models. But the update seems to carry some bugs which are hindering the user experience.

Must see: Get official Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro wallpapers for free!

Undoubtedly, the Android 12 OS is a major overhaul in years with all-new exclusive features and a brand new user interface offered by Material You design. Also, the operating system has some special focus on the security front. However, it also bought some annoying bugs for users who have updated their Pixel smartphones.

Google support forum is receiving complaints from several users who claim that their touch screen is not responding after upgrading to Android 12. Moreover, some users are also facing app crashing and freezing issues while operating the latest stable version. Furthermore, users are also finding it difficult to unlock their Pixel device as the face unlock is also not working properly.

Here are some of the user's complaints as posted in the Google support forum:

“I’ve just upgraded to android 12 and immediately I noticed the upper 10-15% of the screen is touch insensitive. Only the left upper corner where the pinhole camera is working. In safe mode all works ok; also, everything worked today before upgrading. Funny that if I open app settings, the upper part starts working again. If I leave to another app or the home screen, it’s dead again. This is a disaster since all the apps have navigation/buttons up there, and I cannot use half of the apps, not even chrome, to enter an address. Any ideas? I haven’t installed any new apps recently, and as I said, there were no issues today before updating to 12. Please help!!"

“Hey, after my update to android 12, some apps are crashing continuously and the battery is draining very fast.”

So far, we have no words from Google or the Android team. But we expect the company to look into the matter soon and fix these bugs via an OTA update.

Read more: Google app beta update brings Material You weather widgets

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OnePlus Nord N10 5G picks up OxygenOS 11.0.2 update

OnePlus released the Nord N10 5G smartphone last year with Android 10 pre-installed. Android 11 update for the device was released this year followed by the new OS-based skin, OxygenOS 11. Though, the handset is eligible to grab only one major OS update. The company is still bumping the customized skin with OxygenOS 11.0.2.

Make sure to visit: [Update] Download OnePlus Calculator v2.1.25 [Old Versions Archive]

The OxygenOS 11.0.2 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 11.0.2BE89BA. A similar package on build number 11.0.2BE86AA​ will make its way to North America​ soon.

Concerning changes, the package does not carry any such significant changes. But it improves the stability of the communication network for a better calling experience. Also, the security patch will be upgraded to October 2021 after flashing the update.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to 2021.10
  
  
  
  


• Network
  
  
  
  • Improved the stability of the communication network
  
  
  
  

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 9 & 9 Pro picks up new update with October 2021 security patch

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Best smartphones under $200

Every planning to purchase a smartphone started with a budget. Breaking the myth, you don't always need to go for high-end devices to get all the features. Numerous smartphones are offering a smooth experience at a low and budgeted price. Here we have crafted a list of such devices that will cost you less than $200.

Must see: How to add Games to Discord

Best smartphones under $200

• 
  

  Moto G Fast- $200

  
  

The Moto G Fast tops the list considering all the features the device offers at this price. Launched in June 2020, the smartphone boosts Android 10 out of the box layered with a 6.4 inch IPS LCD panel. It draws power from an octa-core processor based on Snapdragon 665 and Adreno 610 GPU.



A triple rear camera led by a 16 MP sensor is used for photography. The other lenses detail the picture with a help of an 8 MP ultrawide unit and a 2 MP macro sensor. On the front, you will get an 8 MP snapper for selfies and video calls. Further, there's a standard 4000 mAh battery supporting 10W of charging over a USB Type-C 2.0 port.

• 
  

  Moto G Play- $170

  
  

Moto G Play is the perfect launch of the year under this price category. A standard 6.5 inch IPS LCD panel will be handy to function Android 10. Moreover, the body has a Water-repellent coating protecting it from splash and rain. It runs Snapdragon 460 under the hood paired with an octa-core processor and Adreno 610 GPU.



In the optics department, a 13MP primary camera along with a 2MP sensor to measure depth is housed on the rear side. While the front carries a 5MP selfie cam. A 5000 mAh power cell is enough to provide a day of routine functioning. It supports 10W of normal Charging over a USB Type-C 2.0 port.

• 
  

  Nokia 2.4- $140

  
  

Like the rest of the smartphones, Nokia 2.4 also compromises with some specs but is a great deal at this price. It features a 6.5 inch HD+ LCD powered by Mediatek Helio P22 chipset. This 2020 launched device also fuels Android 10 out of the box.



A 13 MP + 2 MP camera setup is crafted on the back side while the front facing 5MP lens is something you can put second thoughts on, but it does the job. It ships with a decent 4500 mAh battery that supports charging over a microUSB 2.0 port

• 
  

  Blackview BV5900- $130

  
  

If you are a clumsy lad or have a physically demanding job, the rugged Blackview BV5900 is the best option for you. The solid phone has durable ratings to survive splash up to five feet. It has a 5.7 inch display that is easy to hold for butterfingers. But, it runs the old Android 9 pie powered by MediaTek MT6761 Quad-core processor.



The company claims that the device could give 60 hours of standby time in a single charge of a 5580 mAh battery. Also, the phone is not meant for photography but it has a 13MP + 0.3MP rear camer and a 5MP lens on the front side.

• 
  

  Redmi Note 9- $180

  
  

The Redmi Note 9 by Xiaomi is inexpensive yet the most reliable smartphone fromt the list. The device made its debut last year featuring a 6.53 inch HD+ LCD with a Water-repellent coating and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. It run Android 10 MIUI 12 pre installed that draws power from Helio G85 chipset.



The Redmi Note 9 offers a surprisingly decent 48MP quad camera in this range. The other sensors include an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a couple of 2MP snappers for macro and depth aspects. The front cam is also great with a 13MP shooter. It ships with a 5020 mAh battery which claims to provide a 125H of backup. The cell supports 18W of Fast charging and 9W of Reverse charging.

• 
  

  Samsung Galaxy A12- $176

  
  

Samsung devices are best if you want to keep your device up to date with the latest features. Though not expensive, the Galaxy A12 also offers the best of Samsung starting with a 6.5 inch edge-to-edge display. It fuels Mediatek Helio P35 SoC based on an Octa-core processor and PowerVR GE8320 GPU. Underneath, it offers Android 10 by default but again, it is good with updates!



The camera quality is also good, thanks to the 48MP quad rear setup. Accompanying this is the 5MP ultrawide lens, a 2MP macro shooter, and a 2MP depth sensor. While there's a stadard 8MP snapper on the other side. It packa a generous 5000 mAh battery that canbe charged via 15W fast charger.

• 
  

  OnePlus Nord N100 (64GB)- $ 180

  
  

Though OnePlus is known for its premium flagships that offer extensive features in less range. The Nord series is meant for the budget-ers. The 64GB variant of OnePlus Nord N100 falls under this category. It flaunts a 6.52 inch HD+ display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Underneath, it runs Snapdragon 460 along with Android 10 OS based OxygenOS 10.5.9. To mention, the Nord series are set to receive only a single major OS update.



It carries a triple rear camera setup consisitng of a 13MP primary sensor and a coupke fo 2MP macro and depth shooters. On the other side, there's an 8MP selfie snapper. Like other devices, it also packa a standard 5000 mAh power cell which can be backed up by a 18W of fast charger.

• 
  

  Moto G Power 2021- $187

  
  

Motorola has the best smartphones to offer in a budget segment. There's again a Motorola device to the rescue— Moto G Power (2021). It features a Water-repellent coating on a 6.6 inch IPS LCD panel. It draws power from an octa-core processor based on Snapdragon 662 and Adreno 610 GPU



It has the best camera quality offered by Motorola with 48MP triple setup. The other include two 2MPs sensors for macro and depth measurement. A 5000 mAh battery backs up the device that suports Fast charging of 15W over a USB Type-C 2.0 port.

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