Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Gmail finally get its new Material You widget

Last month, Google teased new Material You widgets for some of its apps including Gmail, YouTube Music, and Google Drive. The teaser is finally official for the Gmail app as the platform is finally getting its own widget inspired by the new Material You design language.

Gmail

Make sure to visit: How to fix 'Google Play services has stopped' error

A couple of months back, the Gmail app got in sync with the Material You theme on Android 12. But Google only touched it up with a little color support extracted from your wallpaper. Otherwise, it remained the same with a compose button in the bottom-right corner.

The new themed widget arrives with Gmail app version 2021.10.31, which looks similar to Google Keep widget. The update adds a rounded square FAB in the top-right corner alongside an unread counter. The narrow lane displays a list of messages besides an archive button at the right. Also, you can now no longer see the first line of an email as they now appear as rounded cards.

[gallery link="none" size="full" td_gallery_title_input="Gmail widget" ids="121072,121071,121070"]

Increasing the default width of the Gmail widget will bring up a bottom bar that will house quick shortcuts for Chat, Spaces, and Meet. Meanwhile, shrinking the height will switch to a right sidebar layout. Needless today, this new widget will support the Material You theme and will apply the prominent color of your current wallpaper.

Unlike before, the new Gmail widget is powerful with access to all the necessary options right from the home screen. You can download the new version 2021.10.31 via Google Play Store.
Read more: Google Pixel 2 XL get its first Android 12 based custom ROM

List of Samsung phones getting One UI 4.0 in India

Recently, Samsung pushed the One UI 4.0 update plan and deleted the post later. The list was not final but it gave us a hint of when we can expect the latest skin to arrive. Today, the company has revealed the polished Android 12-based One UI 4.0 update roadmap for Indian Galaxy smartphones.

One UI 4.0

Make sure to visit: List of Samsung devices eligible for Android 12L update

The One UI 4.0 update schedule for India was revealed via the Samsung Members app. The users now know when to expect the update on their respective Samsung devices. As you might have guessed, the Galaxy S21 series will be the first one to join the stable One UI 4.0 update. Following this will be the new foldables— Galaxy Z Flip3 and Z Fold3.

If the update rolls out as per schedule, the users can receive the stable Android 12 operating system by the end of next month. However, Samsung builds are always subject to change as they could carry any last-minute bugs. You can refer to the picture below for the eligible smartphones.



Moreover, the predecessors of the above-mentioned smartphones, some mid-range, and entry-level devices will also receive the Android 12 based One UI 4.0 stable update starting from the next year. This includes Samsung Galaxy S20, S20 Plus, S20 UltraGalaxy S20 FEGalaxy S10, Galaxy S10e, Galaxy S10+, Galaxy S10 Lite, Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Note 10, Note 10 Lite, Note 10+, Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy Fold, and Galaxy Z Fold 2.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy A03 (SM-A035F) arrives on BIS India, launch imminent

[Update: Verizon Pixel 6 series getting October Security patch] Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Update Tracker

At the Google Pixel Fall Launch event 2021, the company launched the  Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. The smartphones are powered by the Google Tensor SoC while offering the latest Android 12 with Material You design. The Pixel 6 features a 6.4-inch AMOLED panel while the Pro variant has a 6.71-inch LTPO AMOLED display. The rear sides of the devices are occupied by a 50MP primary sensor. The selfie camera stands at 8MP and 11.1MP for the respective smartphones.

Pixel 6

Must see: Download Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Factory Images

Note: The tracker will be updated in descending order with every build released for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.

Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Update Tracker



  • [November 17, 2021]: The new version SD1A.210817.037.A1 is rolling out to the Verizon Pixel 6 series. It does not upgrade the security patch but improves the performance of your device's fingerprint sensor.

  • [November 17, 2021]: Both global and Verizon variants of Pixel 6 series. The global update arrives on version SD1A.210817.037, while for Verizon and MVNOs (Mobile virtual network operators), the package can be identified by SD1A.210817.037.A1. Both versions weigh 14.56MB in size. You can read more about it in our dedicated article.

  • [October 28, 2021]: Verizon Pixel 6 series is getting a new update that is unfurling with version number SD1A.210817.036.A8. It inculcates the October 2021 security patch and improves the system performance.


All these updates are rolling out in batches, taking more time to reach out to all units. But you can always "Check for the update" manually under the system "Settings." Also, make sure to keep your phone connected to a Wi-Fi network to avoid carrier data charges.
Related: Google fixes the ghost-dialing problem in Pixel 6

iQOO 7 (l2017) Pro Indian variant spotted at BIS

iQOO is preparing to launch the iQOO 7 Pro smartphone in India soon. So far, the device has been spotted on the IMEI database, Google Play Console, and Geekbench. Now, the smartphone has made it to BIS India. With the device's listing on all these certifications, we have some leaked specifications of the upcoming iQOO 7 Pro.

[caption id="attachment_121051" align="aligncenter" width="696"]iQOO 7 (l2017) pro Representative image[/caption]
Must see: Download iPhone 13 wallpapers for any smartphone

On November 17, the iQOO 7 Pro smartphone was listed at BIS India with the model number l2017. Apart from these minimal details, the listing hardly reveals any additional information about the upcoming smartphone. But, some leaks suggest that the iQOO 7 Pro is the rebranded iQOO 8 Pro for the Indian market.



Prior to this, the iQOO 7 Pro (l2017) visited Geekbench and Google Play Console divulging some key specifications. The device has managed to score 1098 and 3594 points in the single-core and multi-core tests respectively at Geekbench. As per the listing, the device will draw power from Snapdragon 888 Plus SoC under the hood. It will operate on Android 11 paired with 8GB RAM.



On the other hand, the iQOO 7 Pro also appeared on the IMEI database before confirming the moniker. Talking about the design and display, the phone could hold a Full HD+ panel with a punch-hole display and a pixel density of 440PPI.

As iQOO 7 Pro is not launched in China, we can not tell what's undercover. But in case the device is a rebranded iQOO 8 Pro, it will feature a 6.78-inch AMOLED display coupled with up to 12GB RAM. The front side can house a 16MP selfie camera while a 50MP primary lens is likely to lead the triple camera module at the rear.
Read more: iQOO released the Android 12 Beta roadmap

Pixel 6 and 6 Pro receives new unexpected November update

At the end of last month, Google released an update for Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro adding the November security patch to the device. Now, another software is rolling out for the global and Verizon variants of both smartphones. This time, the security level remains the same but the build is addressing something unknown.

Pixel 6

Make sure to visit: Download Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Factory Images

The latest upgrade gives a minor bump to the present build version of Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro variants. The global update arrives on version SD1A.210817.037, while for Verizon and MVNOs (Mobile virtual network operators), the package can be identified by SD1A.210817.037.A1. Both versions weigh 14.56MB in size.

We don't have any official list of changes at the moment, but looking at the software version, it is likely to fix some issues that the users are facing. As the package is arriving out of nowhere unexpectedly, we assume that the bug could be severe, maybe the security exploits found in the Google Tensor processor.

However, we are not sure which issue is being addressed here as Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro has many troublesome little bugs. We will update this article soon as we get any word from the company. Also, we are near to the big December release update we've been waiting for.

This OTA update will automatically hit your respective Pixel smartphones as it is rolling out in batches. This time, the Check for update trigger will not work.

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

OnePlus Nord 2 gets a new update with November 2021 security patch

The OnePlus Nord series are eligible to receive only two major Android updates. But the company never fails to deliver regular upgrades to the upper mid-range device— Nord 2 5G. The new update for the smartphone arrives with some improvements, optimizations, bug fixes, and a new security patch level.

OnePlus Nord 2

Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus Zen Mode v2.4.9 [Old Versions Archive]

The details were revealed via a screenshot shared by a user on the OnePlus Community forums, while we still await an official announcement. The fresh stable OxygenOS build for the OnePlus Nord 2 is bundled with the firmware version DN2101_11_A.13 for the Indian variant and DN2103_11_A.12 for the European models.

Regarding changes, the changelog remains the same for both variants except for the security patch level. Where the Indian OnePlus Nod 2 gets November 2021 patch, the European one stands in October 2021. Further, after flashing the update, the system power consumption will be reduced thus, enhancing the battery life.

Moreover, it optimizes the back-end management to deliver a better gaming experience. Additionally, it also optimizes the network connection stability and VoWifi and ViLTE experience. And of course, the package resolves some known bugs and improves system stability.

Changelog



  • System

    • Further reduced system power consumption

    • Optimized the back-end management to offer a better gaming experience

    • Updated Android security patch to 2021.11

    • Improved the stability and fixed known issues



  • Network

    • Optimized the VoWifi and ViLTE experience

    • Optimized network connection stability




Like always, the OTA update is rolling out in batches. It will reach a limited number of users initially. A border rollout will follow after making sure there are no critical bugs. Meanwhile, you can also track the update manually via Settings > About > Software updates.
Read more: OnePlus Nord 2 blast reported in India, AGAIN!

Download Realme Clone Phone App v12.14.01 [Old Versions Archive]

Are you are changing your Android smartphone and worried about how you can transfer all the data? Well, Realme is here with a solution called the Clone Phone App. It will transfer all data stored on your old phone including Settings, Photos, Contacts, and Apps to your new phone in a few clicks.

Realme Clone Phone App

Must see: Download Realme Weather App v12.1.0 [Old Versions Archive]

All you have to do to transfer your data is install the Realme Clone Phone App on both devices from the dropdown list below. After downloading, select whether the device is old or new and scan the QR code from old to new phone. Once paired, the devices will automatically transfer the selected data via a personal hotspot.


Download Realme Clone Phone App



  • [November 16, 2021]: The Realme Clone Phone is receiving Version v12.14.01 globally in a stable phase. The app is compatible with devices running Realme UI 2.0 & ColorOS 11 and here is what it brings

    What's New:

    1. Adapt to Android version 29. In order to protect user privacy, please use the Clone Phone to scan the code connection and start clone, waiting for the system to pop up the connection prompt, confirm and manually connect before proceeding to the next step;

    2. Fixed some crashes and connection failures to improve user experience;

    3. Fixed some interface display problems.


Download Version v12.14.01




  • [October 25, 2021]: Realme is upgrading the Clone Phone app with Version v5.78.2. The stable update is available for the global users of Realme UI 2.0 and ColorOS 11.


Download Version v5.78.2




  • [October 2, 2021]: Realme Clone Phone app is receiving another stable Version v12.11.01 globally. Users on Realme UI 2.0 & ColorOS 11 can tap the button below to download the update.


Download Version v12.11.01




  • [September 21, 2021]: The Clone Phone app is getting bumped with Version v12.10.00 globally. You can flash the version if you're on Realme UI & ColorOS based on Android 5 or later. Here is what it changes:

    What's New:

    1. Adapt to Android version 29. In order to protect user privacy, please use the Clone Phone to scan the code connection and start clone, waiting for the system to pop up the connection prompt, confirm and manually connect before proceeding to the next step;
    2. Fixed some crashes and connection failures to improve user experience;
    3. Fixed some interface display problems.


Download Version v12.10.00




  • [September 9, 2021]: Realme Clone Phone app Version v5.76.0 is unfurling globally in a stable phase for the users operating Realme UI & ColorOS based on Android 5 or later

    What's New:

    1. Adapt to Android version 29. In order to protect user privacy, please use the Clone Phone to scan the code connection and start clone, waiting for the system to pop up the connection prompt, confirm and manually connect before proceeding to the next step;
    2. Fixed some crashes and connection failures to improve user experience;
    3. Fixed some interface display problems.


Download Version v5.76.0



Related: Download Realme UI System Launcher v12.0.50 [Old Versions Archive]

Verizon Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic gets a new update

The Galaxy Watch 4 series are exceptionally performing well and Samsung leaves no chance to update them. Well, it gets special attention as this is the first time company ditched Tizen OS for WearOS. In the latest news, the Verizon-based Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are getting a new update that brings some user-friendly changes.

Galaxy Watch 4

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For the Galaxy Watch 4, the update arrives on firmware version R865USQU1BUI5 (40mm) and R875USQU1BUI5 (44mm). While for the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, the version upgrades to R885USQU1BUI5 (42mm) and R895USQU1BUI5 (46mm).

Regarding changes, here is a list of what the new version carries:

  • New Watch Faces: Samsung is adding four new watch faces with this update to make it more lively. The faces include— Live wallpaper, Basic dashboard, Info brick, and Weather center. Additionally, you also get two more Cute Characters!


[gallery link="none" size="full" ids="121031,121032,121038"]

  • Steps challenge: There are new animations and an option to choose Steps or Together. The Steps option is meant to count the user's steps. While the Together option will allow the user to challenge friends for walking competitions.

  • Animal: Now, you can also customize the edges of your Galaxy Watch 4 or Galaxy Watch 4 Classic with the newly added options to make your wearable more homely.










  • My Face: Your Galaxy Watch 4 wearables now supports GIFs. That means you can now see the received animations right on your wrist.

  • AR Emoji and Bitmoji: Soon after updating your watches to the latest version, you will get a popup notification. It will say that you can now create your avatars using the mobile app on your connected smartphone.

  • Quick launch gesture: There's a new gesture for which you just need to flick your wrist down twice within 5 seconds. The gesture can perform the assigned task like opening recently used apps, opening an exercise type list, starting a recent exercise, and adding a reminder.

  • Hard fall detection sensitivity: A new option has been added that will alert you in 60 seconds after a fall. In case you do not respond in a minute, an SOS message will be sent to the emergency contacts. You can toggle the Hard fall detection setting via the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone. Visit Watch settings > SOS > When hard fall detected > Hard fall detection.


As the OTA is having an incremental rollout, you may have to wait for some days to grab the new features. But you can always track the build manually via the dedicated app on your connected smartphone.
Read more: Samsung reveals One UI 4.0 update plan; later deleted










Xiaomi drops the MIUI 12.5 Enhanced update plan for some Redmi devices

In August 2021, Xiaomi unveiled the enhanced version of the latest stable skin, MIUI 12.5 alongside the launch of Mi MIX 4. Since then, the company is busy with the deployment of the MIUI 12.5 enhanced version. However, it has now eliminated some Redmi smartphones from the list of eligible devices.

MIUI 12.5 Enhanced

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The selected Redmi devices that are now not eligible to bag the MIUI 12.5 Enhanced edition are listed below:

Last year as well, Xiaomi mentioned two devices from the above list that were not qualified to get MIUI 12— Redmi 7 and Redmi Y3. However, the Redmi 7 received both MIUI 12 and the later version, MIUI 12.5. But unfortunately, the Redmi Y3 strictly followed the orders.

Therefore, we can say that there's still a possibility that some handsets from the above-mentioned list could receive the MIUI 12.5 Enhanced Edition update. But let's not keep any hope.

In other news, Xiaomi is planning to upgrade the maximum of its devices with MIUI 12.5 enhanced. The company has disclosed the third batch of the rollout plan which mentions more than 25 smartphones that you can see in our dedicated article.
Read more: Two mysterious Xiaomi smartphones receive China's MIIT certification