Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Stable Android 12 update is rolling out to Nokia X20 5G

Earlier this month, HMD Global released the Android 12 beta program for three smartphones including Nokia X20 5G. In the latest news, the handset is leaving the beta stage and the stable update of the latest operating system has started rolling out.

Nokia X20 5G


Make sure to visit: Best Android 12 features: Secure, Private, and Personal

With this, the Nokia X20 5G becomes the first device from the company to run the stable Android 12 operating system. The software can be identified by the firmware version V2.350 weighing 2.18GB in size.

The announcement was made via an official Nokia community post which stated, “To provide a smooth rollout, we dispatch the Update in Waves.” The first wave of the rollout is hitting more than 25 countries. Check out if your device will drive Android 12 from the list below:


  • Austria

  • Belgium

  • Croatia (Tele2, Vipnet)

  • Denmark

  • Egypt

  • Estonia

  • Finland

  • Germany

  • Hong Kong

  • Hungary (Telenor HU)

  • Iceland

  • Iran

  • Iraq

  • Jordan

  • Latvia

  • Lebanon

  • Lithuania

  • Luxembourg

  • Malaysia

  • Netherlands (Tele2 NL, VF, T-Mobile)

  • Norway

  • Portugal

  • Romania

  • Slovakia (O2 – SK)

  • Spain

  • Sweden

  • Switzerland



According to the Nokia community post, the update is unfurling in batches. That implies it will initially hit a limited number of users. While all of the above-mentioned countries will receive the package by December 17. Thereafter, a wave 2 rollout will follow.

If you are a Nokia owner and wondering if your device is eligible to get the latest stable update, tap on the button below.

List of Nokia devices to get Android 12 update



 Read more: Nokia 2.4 receives Android 11 with November 2021 Security Patch

Android 12 Go Edition features: more efficient, private, and faster

"Go Edition" is a variant of the Android Operating System specially crafted for entry-level smartphones with low internals. Now that stable Android 12 is available for smartphones, Google has announced the Android 12 Go Edition. The new edition packs several advancements than its predecessor— the Android 11 Go Edition.

Android 12 Go Edition

Must see: Download Android 12 wallpapers in full resolution

According to Google, the Android 12 Go Edition will make your device up to 30 percent faster. Compared to the Android 11 Go Edition, the new version will be 20% more enhanced with smooth launch animations. Moreover, there's a new feature that will save storage and preserve battery by hibernating apps which are not in use frequently.

Android 12 Go Edition

In addition, you get an option to delete something and then recover it before 30 days via "Files Go." Also, data can be saved by transferring apps between devices, thanks to the Nearby Share update. This adds to the latest shortcut on the recent apps interface that will help you to translate a webpage.

Android 12 Go Edition

Furthermore, just like standard Android 12, the Go Edition also emphasizes privacy enhancements. You get the same privacy dashboard that will review and revoke all the permissions your apps have accessed. Besides, there are privacy indicators on the status bar that will show if the phone’s microphone or camera is in use. Above that, you can manage apps to restrict access to your approximate location.

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What's more, is that you can enter the temporary guest mode directly from the lock screen in case you are handing over your device to someone. Once they are done, the Android 12 Go Edition will automatically reset your phone.
Read more: Google Photos ‘Memories’ is rolling out widely on the web

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Google Photos ‘Memories’ is rolling out widely on web

Back in October, Google Photos started to get “Memories” carousel on the web. After a long wait, the feature is now having a wider rollout. The feature will let you feel nostalgic “no matter what device you’re on,” says Google.

Google Photos

Make sure to visit: Download new ChromeOS Wallpapers

We all are familiar with “Memories” as it is there for mobile for a long time. It is simply an AI-generated photo flipbook on Google Photos. However, the same option on the desktop will offer a slightly more detailed look. The collection will be the same you find in your smartphones though.

You can spot the “Memories” carousel on the desktop at the top of Google Photos. You will see images a bit large than any other within your library. Also, you get the control to select any of the albums generated by time or theme.



As in handsets, clicking on any picture on the web will launch a full-screen window, allowing you to take a deep look. This 4:3 view will skip after a few seconds or you can simply click. Additionally, you can notice a border on the left and right sides of your screen. While the day/date are placed on the top left corner. At the right edge, neat to the close button is where you can see other memories.



Furthermore, you can control what kind of Memories you want to see under the advanced account settings. or else, you can disable the feature altogether. However, do note that any changes you make on the web will be implemented on your mobile phones.
Read more: Google Search app shifts search bar to the bottom

Asus releases new software update for the ROG Phone II

A month ago, Asus released the Android 11 update to the ROG Phone II. In the latest news, the smartphone is receiving another update. But what will the package bring for your device? well, it depends on your current firmware version. Scroll to know more!

ROG Phone II

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The latest update is rolling out through the firmware version 18.0210.2111.190. As of now, the package is limited to the Asus ROG Phone 2 units with model number ZS660KL in Russia.

Regarding changes, Asus has published two different changelogs. The first one is for those who are jumping from 18.0210.2110.160. For these users, the build carries a variety of fixes and improvements. The second is for those operating 17.0240.2108.103. They are getting an Android 11 operating system with all-new features. Take a look at the changelog below based on your respective versions.

Changelog


From 18.0210.2110.160

  • Improved the user experience when using Bluetooth Headset

  • Fixed the issue when the device connects to the station, the game "Princess Connect! Re: Dive" shouldn't be stopped abnormally when tapping in another phone screen.

  • Fixed the FPS drop issue when streaming in Genshin Impact

  • Fixed the issue when starting a VOIP call via Type-C headset

  • Fixed that the right-side thumbstick & L1 key don't function normally after pressing the function key on Gamepad

  • Improved Touch related issue

  • Fixed WiFi Hot Spot can't tune on the issue


From 17.0240.2108.103

  • Upgraded system to Android 11

  • Please back up your data before upgrading to Android 11. If you want to downgrade your device’s software version to Android 10 by the official software package, it will erase all data from your device’s internal storage.

  • Introduced new ROG UI design

  • Revamped Armoury Crate, Game Genie, Mobile Manager, Contacts, Phone, File Manager, Calculator, Clock, Gallery, Weather, Sound recorder, Settings, Data Transfer, Local backup, Setup wizard, System update apps

  • Support one-time permissions, improved scoped storage, and auto revoke app permission

  • Support to keep Bluetooth connection when airplane mode is activated

  • Adjusted notification tray to Android 11 design. Support notification conversations

  • A classic style of power button menu supports device control and Google Pay in Android 11

  • Updated Auto switch in System color scheme, advanced options for back gesture settings, and SIM card settings. Replaced with the latest ASUS One-handed mode.

  • Added Notification history and Bubbles settings

  • Integrated PowerMaster features in Mobile Manager into Battery Settings

  • Adjusted the Quick Settings panel design. Support media control function. Added Nearby Share tiles.

  • Added lock task, screenshot, share options after long-pressing the app icon of the task in the recent apps screen.

  • Adjusted Calculator design to the latest Android style.

  • Added "Show blocked calls in call log" option in Call log Settings of ASUS Phone

  • Adjusted the size of status bar icons to keep visual consistency

  • Added setting alarm by date and group alarm features in Clock

  • Support new editing page in Gallery app

  • Updated the default selection logic of data category in Data Transfer

  • Adjusted the pages in the Setup wizard

  • Adjusted options and update mechanism in system update setting


As always, the update may take about one week to complete the automatic push. If you want to avoid the waiting period, you can head over to System Update under the Settings app.
Related: Asus starts Android 12 beta program for Zenfone 8 Flip

Second Realme UI 3.0 Beta brings fixes for Realme X7 Max

It's been a few days since Realme initiated the Realme UI 3.0 beta program for the Realme X7 Max. As with every beta build, the package was a lot buggy. The testers were facing numerous problems across the system. After taking the user's feedback, the company is now releasing the second beta update which eliminates these bugs.

Realme UI 3.0

Make sure to visit: Download Realme Game Space Latest Version [old versions archived]

The second beta of Realme UI 3.0 based on Android 12 is live for the early access users of Realme X7 Max. The build arrives on the firmware version RMX3031_11_C.02 weighing 184MB in size.

As mentioned, the package squashes the bugs that were present in the first beta stage. This includes issues related to the power button, volume, navigation, and systems. Moreover, Realme claims to fix a handful of the issues that were reported by the beta users. Additionally, we also have the official changelog in our hands:

Changelog



  • System

    • Fixed the problem that the volume key menu disappear after clicking edge lightning

    • Fixed the problem that power off menu disappear after clicking edge lightning

    • Fixed the problem that the navigation key is displayed abnormally after clicking edge lightning




Do keep in mind that this is also a beta build. Thus, you can experience a few lags but those will be resolved with future updates. Also, the company asks users to take a backup of important data to reduce risk.

If you are currently on the Realme UI 3.0 Beta 1, you can flash the second beta by heading to the Settings app > Software update, and tapping on Download and install.
Read more: [Update: December 2021 Security Patch] Realme C21 Update Tracker

Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3 jumps to fourth One UI 4.0 beta

A couple of months back, Samsung released the Android 12 based One UI 4.0 beta for Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3. The beta program had undergone three stages and now it is entering the fourth stage. This indicates that the stable push is approaching which is likely to occur by the end of this month.

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

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

Every jump in the beta phase intends to eliminate bugs that were present in the previous build. However, even in the third phase, the package was not stable enough and was littered with bugs. The company has now released Beta 4 to squash those glitches.

The announcement was made through the Samsung Members forum according to which, the fourth One UI 4.0 beta update for the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 is rolling out in South Korea. The package can be identified by the firmware version ZUL4.

The One UI 4.0 Beta 4 addresses various bugs some of which are mentioned below:

  • Where the phone was forced to boot into Safe Mode or Recovery Menu.

  • The bug that reset all the apps to 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratio.

  • The bug that stopped some links from being opened on Facebook.

  • The bug that prevented the Kiwoom Securities app from running on foldable devices.


If you are already on the One UI 4.0 beta firmware, this update will arrive as an OTA. In another case, you can visit the Samsung Members app and enroll yourself by tapping on the One UI beta program banner.
Read more: Android 12 One UI 4.0 update timeline for Galaxy devices (Official)

Verizon LG Wing receives Android 11 update

The LG Wing was the last major smartphone by the company before it decided to pack its mobile business. Though the device was supposed to get the Android 11 update long before. Anyway, the Verizon-based LG Wing is now receiving the new operating system.

LG Wing

Must see: Download Android 11 Wallpapers fresh out of the box

To mention, the Android 11 update for LG Wing could be the last major update for the users but, a similar build is yet to be rolled out for other variants as well. Considering that we already have Android 12 moving around, the Android 11 update isn't exactly snappy. But given the company is not in function anymore, we can't say it's awful.

Presently, the package is live in the USA via software version F100VM20a. As far as changes are concerned, it will bring all the Android 11 goodies, for instance, UI customizations, chat bubbles, camera optimizations, native screen recorder, new quick settings actions, one-time permissions, and much more.

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LG Wing was launched last year and is eligible to get updates even for the next year, given that it provides two years of update support to its flagship. This remains a question for obvious reasons. But who knows? Maybe the company will release an Android 12 update next year.

The OTA build will reach out to Verizon’s unit of LG Wing in a staged manner. Alternatively, you can also navigate the update via phone’s Settings -> About Phone -> Software updates -> Check for Update, if the update is available for your device, click on Download and install.
Read more: [Update: November 2021] Antutu Best Performing flagship phones List

December update for Pixel 6 & 6 Pro is finally rolling out

Google usually rolls out monthly updates to its smartphones on the first working Monday of every month. However, this month, the company already announced that we may have to wait another week before the deployment begins. Well, the delay is now over as the December 2021 update for the Pixel 6 series is now live!

Pixel 6
Make sure to visit: Specs Comparison – Xiaomi Mi Pad 5 Pro vs Apple iPad Mini 6

As promised by Google, the software brings the latest security patch, new feature drop feature, and some bug fixes. If you own Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a (XL), Pixel 4 (XL), Pixel 4aPixel 4a 5GPixel 5, or Pixel 5a, you already know what the update is!

Prior to the rollout, the tech giant gave us an idea of what we can expect from the package. The new software adds 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. Unfortunately, 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.


The latest update has started rolling out today in batches. Thus, it may take a few days to reach all the Pixel 6 smartphones. So don't worry if you haven't got it, it's just a matter of days.
Read more: Android 12L Beta 1 finally released for Pixel smartphones

Stable Android 12 based FuntouchOS 12 update is live for iQOO Z3

Following Google, several OEMs have started releasing their customized skin to the eligible device. Joining the list is the Chinese giant iQOO. Earlier this month, the company shared the updated timeline for the Android 12 based FuntouchOS 12. Adhering to the schedule, the package is now available for the iQOO Z3 in a stable phase.

iQOO Z3

Make sure to visit: Download Android 12 GApps for every Android device

Presently, the FuntouchOS 12-based Android 12 stable update for the iQOO Z3 is limited to India. Hopefully, the other regions will follow in a few weeks. The latest software can be identified by the firmware version PD2073BF_EX_A_6.72.7 weighing 4GB in size.

Regarding changes, the latest FuntouchOS 12 based on Android 12 brings Colorful AOD, refreshed icons, enhanced dark theme mode, and of course a fresh UI design with customization options, and a lot more.

Moreover, the company has issued a relatively huge changelog that mentions the addition of Small Windows and Nano Music Player alongside other new features. You can have a look at the screenshots below to read every single item on the list.

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iQOO will push the OTA update to selective users at first, just to ensure a smooth experience before giving it a wider rollout. If you own iQOO Z3 in India, you can check for the build manually in the Settings app.


Also, if you own a Vivo or iQOO device and wondering if your smartphone is eligible for the next update, you can find it from the buttons below.


List of eligible Vivo and iQOO devices to get FuntouchOS 12



Read more: Vivo and iQOO timeline for OriginOS Ocean update (China)