Friday, December 10, 2021

Vivo and iQOO timeline for OriginOS Ocean update (China)

Last year, Vivo decided to give an overhaul to its mobile operating system and rename it OriginOS. However, the changes are only particular to China. Today, the company unveiled the second generation of its new OS— OrginOS Ocean. Alongside, the updated timeline for the eligible devices was revealed at the end of the conference.

OriginOS Ocean

Must see: How to Solve Problems/Errors in Vivo Y85?

OriginOS Ocean is based on Android 12 will be available for both Vivo and iQOO smartphones. Also, do keep in mind that the skin will be China exclusive. For the international markets, the company has already published the Android 12 FuntouchOS 12 update schedule. If you are one of these users, tap on the button below.

Vivo and iQOO devices to get FuntouchOS 12


Coming forth, here are the Vivo and iQOO smartphones that are eligible for the OrginOS Ocean update:

Vivo and iQOO timeline for OriginOS Ocean update (China)


From December 30, 2021



  • vivo X70 Pro+

  • vivo X70 Pro

  • vivo X70

  • vivo X60 Pro+

  • vivo X60t Pro+

  • vivo X60 Pro

  • vivo X60 Curved Screen Edition

  • vivo S10 Pro

  • vivo S10

  • vivo S9

  • iQOO 8 Pro

  • iQOO 8

  • iQOO 7


Late January 2022



  • vivo X60

  • vivo X60t

  • iQOO 5 Pro

  • iQOO 5

  • iQOO Neo5

  • iQOO Z5

  • iQOO Z5x

  • iQOO Neo5 Vitality Edition


Late February to March 2022



  • vivo X50 Pro+

  • vivo X50 Pro

  • vivo X50

  • vivo X30 Pro

  • vivo X30

  • vivo S10e

  • vivo S9e

  • vivo S7

  • vivo S7t

  • vivo S6

  • vivo NEX 3S

  • vivo T1


April 2022



  • iQOO 3

  • iQOO Neo3

  • iQOO Z3

  • iQOO Z1

  • iQOO Z1x

  • vivo Y76s

  • vivo Y71t

  • vivo Y53s

  • vivo Y53s (t1 Edition)

  • vivo Y53s (t2 Edition)

  • vivo S7e Vitality Edition

  • vivo T1x

  • vivo Z6


Note: The above-mentioned timeline is subject to change depending on various factors.
Read more: Three new Vivo devices surfaces on TKDN

One UI 4.0 Beta 2 is live for the Galaxy S10 and Galaxy Note 10

Last week, Samsung initiated the One UI 4.0 beta program for the Galaxy S10 series and the Galaxy Note 10 series. Now, the company is planning to improve the Android 12 based beta experience for the flagships by releasing the second beta in its home country.

One UI 4.0 Beta

Make sure to visit: Exynos Galaxy S10 series can get Android 12 based LineageOS 19.0 early build

As we'd expect from any beta upgrades, the second One UI 4.0 beta for the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 lineups resolves several issues. This includes performance (stuttering) problems when using the Messages app, playing videos, and scrolling through the Weather app.

Moreover, the dysfunctionality of the Edge panel, Instagram/Facebook links causing errors, and apps missing from Secure Folder are also taken care of. Plus, mp4 files in the Video app have no longer trouble playing. Also, the background blur effects in the Recent Apps screen are now applied as required.





The changelog is almost similar for the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 lineups. It mentions tons of improvements across the board and is positively huge. You can check out the screenshots below for the same.





[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="full" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="121586,121585"]

However, don't forget that this also is a beta update and will carry a lot of flaws. Some reported issues are with initializing Dual Messenger and users tend to lose photo gallery visibility in Dual Messenger environments. A rebooting should offer a temporary fix for this though.

If you’re already on the One UI 4.0 Beta 1, you will receive the second update as an OTA via the firmware version “ZUL5.” Alternatively, you can head to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.
Read more: Android 12 is buggy for Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 users

December update for Pixel 6 is around the corner!

Earlier this week, Google announced a December update for its Pixel smartphones. The software will bring the latest security patch, new feature drop, and some bug fixes. However, it is only available for Pixel 3a to Pixel 5a devices. But Google has finally disclosed when the build will arrive for the Pixel 6 series. Keep scrolling to know more!

Pixel 6

Make sure to visit: Specs Comparison: OnePlus Nord 2 vs Google Pixel 5a 5G

According to a post on Google Japan's support page, the quarterly update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will start rolling out on Monday, December 13. While the package is only a few days away, Google has already revealed what it will inculcate.


The new software will add ultra-wideband (UWB) functionality to the Pixel 6 Pro. While both smartphones will receive digital car keys which will be useful for the owners of some recent BMW models.


Although the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are the latest handset by Google offering everything from a fresh design to a new processor. However, the devices are littered with bugs since release. With this build, Google intends to address them, especially the ghost-dialing problem where the assistant place calls to random numbers from contacts on its own.  Moreover, it will resolve microphone issues, fingerprint reader instability, screen flicker, call connectivity problems, and Wi-Fi disconnecting glitch.


If you own Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a (XL), Pixel 4 (XL), Pixel 4aPixel 4a 5GPixel 5, or Pixel 5a, the update is already live for you!

Thursday, December 9, 2021

[Update: System Optimization] Asus Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders Updates Tracker

In July 2021, the Taiwan technical giant, Asus announced a new Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders. The device is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 5G Chipset coupled with 16 GB RAM and 512GB internal storage. It hosts a 6.78-inch Super AMOLED AOD display with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection. In terms of camera, it sports a 64 MP triple rear camera and a 24-MP single front-facing camera.

Asus Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders
Must see: Download Android 12 GApps for every Android device

Note: We will keep this post updated with the latest updated information regarding the Asus Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders.

Asus Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders Updates Tracker



  • [December 9, 2021]: Asus is releasing a new update to the smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders in the USA via the firmware version 18.1051.2109.7. The build is not major but it updates the APN data and optimizes the system stability.
    Changelog
    Updated APN data
    Optimized system stability

  • [August 30, 2021]: Asus is sending a pre-release software update to the EXP21 Smartphone. The first build for the handset is arriving on the firmware version 18.1030.2107.138. Concerning changes, the camera tunning is now optimized along with the sound quality of M&D earbuds. Moreover, the changelog mentions an upgraded Android security patch and we assume it to be the current safety maintenance, August 2021. Click here to read more.
    ChangelogOptimized M&D Earbuds Sound Quality
    Update Android Security Patch
    Camera Tuning Optimization(AE/AF/AWB)



As the update is spinning out in batches, it may take some time to reach all the units. Meanwhile, head to Settings > Software updates > Check for updates to check the status of the update manually. Also, make sure to switch to a WiFi network before updating to avoid carrier data charges.
Related: [Update: System Optimization] Poco X2 Updates Tracker

Android 12 is buggy for Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 users

A couple of months ago, Samsung released the Android 12 based One UI 4.0 beta program for Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3. The package made it to the stable phase for Galaxy Z Flip 3 earlier this week. However, even after passing through several beta phases, several users seem to complain about the buggy software.

Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G

Make sure to visit: Download Galaxy Labs: New family of apps for Samsung devices

The stable Android 12 for Galaxy Z Flip 3 didn't make it to many countries but that seems to be a good part now. As users have started to raise issues that could be settled in a future deployment. Though most of these bugs are limited to South Korea, we can't neglect the impact on other regions too.

The major problem with the Korean Galaxy Z Flip 3 devices operating Android 12 One UI 4.0 is that it keeps bricking. In simpler words, we can say that the phone keeps getting into recovery mode. While other issues are minor, yet annoying like screen flickering, dark mode, and poor performance.

Moreover, some users are also whining over the dysfunction of the Dual Messenger feature. This adds to the inability to take screenshots, use Netflix and YouTube. Also, some devices are stuck on a 60Hz display refresh rate after the update as the images disappear from the gallery.

Reportedly, Samsung has given a temporary halt to the Android 12 rollout for Galaxy Z Flip 3 and the Galaxy Z Fold 3. Let's see how the company tackles these complaints. If you are one of the users experiencing bugs, do let us know in the comment section below.
Read more: Galaxy S21 FE is tipped to boost Android 12 One UI 4.0

[Update: November 2021 security patch] Huawei Nova 6 series Updates Tracker

In December 2019, Huawei officially released the Nova 6 series boosting Android 10 based EMUI 10 out of the box. The series includes three devices— Nova 6, Nova 6 5G, and Nova 6 SE. Where Nova 6 and Nova 6 5G equip Kirin 990 chipset, the Nova 6 SE draws power from Kirin 810. Here is a list of updates the company released for this lineup.

Huawei Nova 6

Make sure to visit: Get Portrait Mode for selfies [Download Google Camera apk]

Note: This is an update tracker page and will be refreshed with every build released for the smartphones. The updates below are placed in descending order according to their date of release.

Huawei Nova 6 series Updates Tracker



  • [December 8, 2021]: Huawei Nova 6 SE is receiving a new update that bumps the security patch to November 2021. The update arrives on version HarmonyOS v2.0.0.212. It fixes several levels of CVEs found in the system.
    Changelog
    Installs the new HarmonyOS upgrading to version 2.0.0.212 from 2.0.0.210
    Security Patch that updates to the November 2021 version for an improved system security



  • [March 24, 2021]: The Nova 6 duo is now receiving the EMUI 11 based February 2021 security patch update. The new firmware bumps the EMUI version 11.0.0.169 for Nove 6 while Nova 6 Pro is receiving version number 11.0.0.170. The package weighs 313 MB in size for both handsets. Click here to know more.


The OTA update is rolling out in batches, making it take more time to reach all units. The user can either wait or track the build manually. To do this, head over to System and updates under the Settings app > Check for updates.
Read more: [Update: System Optimization] Xiaomi Mi 10 series Updates Tracker

Stable OxygenOS 12 for the OnePlus 9 series is infused with bugs



It's only been a couple of days since OnePlus released the stable OxygenOS 12 for the OnePlus 9 series. The software delivers a bunch of features. However, it seems that the company infused it with a lot of bugs and inconsistencies.

OxygenOS 12
Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus Camera App Latest version [Old Versions Archive]

If we look at the previous record of OnePlus, that wasn't well either. Be it OxygenOS 11 update to the OnePlus 8 series or the OnePlus 7 series, that carries a questionable amount of issues even after several beta stages.


The users who have flashed the OxygenOS 12 on their OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro are reporting a wide range of issues. All platforms including Reddit, Twitter, and even OnePlus official announcement posts are flooded with complaints, and users are recommending others not to install the update.

The list of issues dumping the performance lately includes trouble making and receiving calls, poor animations, broken Autofill feature, slower Wi-Fi speed, and so on. Moreover, the update is also missing some customization features that were the essence of the OxygenOS experience. For instance, the inability to change individual icons, customize the status bar, can’t disable the Google Feed, change the battery icon, and more. Plus, the call recording app and the Advanced Reboot feature are missing as well.
It's official, I absolutely hate this new ColorOS update by @oneplus. It's half-assed, animations looking shitty, some apps with different DPI scaling, and reeks of Chinese skin type of Android. I hate it and I can't wait to ditch this for the Pixel 6.



I’m not happy at all. Recent task manager cant close all apps, as the last app still remains on the screen after pressing close all button in task manager. Whatsapp parallel isnt able to log on web. No call recording app. Miss the old phone and contacts app

Considering the complaints, we suggest you stay on Android 11 for now and wait for OnePlus to squash these bugs. In case you already have installed the update, let us know about your problems in the comment section below.



Read more: OnePlus Nord 2 receives OxygenOS A.14 update

Gmail app gets native audio and video call option

This year, Google has steadily changed its way to provide services to its users. In the latest news, the Google Chat within the Gmail app is receiving its native audio and video call option. The update is available for both Android and iOS users.

Gmail

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

Lately, Google has crystallized the experience of different apps into a single platform. The company aims to provide an effortless and quick experience to its users. For which, it has been emphasized consolidating the experience.

The new feature will enable Gmail users to start or join a meeting or audio call from within its Google Chat service. As of now, the option is available only for one-on-one chats. That means you still have to find another option if you're looking to make a conference call.

"As some teams begin to return to the office, while others remain distributed, we hope this makes it easier to connect with your colleagues in the hybrid work world. This feature will allow you to seamlessly switch between chat to a video or audio call when needed, helping you collaborate and move your work forward," says Google.


The feature works simply on a 1-on-1 Google Chat screen by tapping on the phone or video icon from the top right corner. Also, the rollout will be incremental thus, you will have to wait till the icon is made available for you.
Read more: Android 12L Beta 1 finally released for Pixel smartphones

Android 12L Beta 1 finally released for Pixel smartphones

A couple of months back, we reported that Google could introduce a minor update over Android 12 after the Pixel 6 series launch. Well, the company is finally here with the first beta for the successor version, Android 12L Beta 1 for Pixel 6 smartphones.

Android 12L

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

Android 12L is not meant for all smartphones as of now. The version is actually a “feature drop for Android 12,” which will have a stable release in Q1 2022. The version is specially crafted for devices with large screens like foldable smartphones, tablets, and Chromebooks. Also, it does bring improvements for smartphones.

Android 12L Beta 1 arrives with the December 2021 security patch via version S2B1.211112.006. Those who own Pixel 3a (XL) or later devices are eligible to flash the version. Precisely, the list of devices includes Pixel 3a (XL), Pixel 4 (XL), Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, and Pixel 6 Pro. Users who have enrolled in the Android Beta program will receive the initial beta-quality as a simple OTA update.

To mention, Lenovo Tab P12 Pro joined the Android 12L Developer program last week and Beta 1 will be available in the coming weeks.

In a nutshell, we can say that Android 12L is a refinement over Android 12 to make it more usable on large screens. Along with several UI refreshments, it brings new APIs, tools, and guidance to help developers optimize their apps. You can read all of the Android 12L features by tapping on the button below.

Android 12L features that you should know!



Read more: Google fixes the ghost-dialing problem in Pixel 6