ZenFone 8 series get its first post-Android 12 update

Before the ending of 2021, Asus started deploying Android 12 OS to the ZenFone 8 series. Now, the company is releasing the first post update to the ZenFone 8 and ZenFone 8 Flip. The lineup is the first flagship from the Twain giant to receive the latest operating system.

Must see: List of Asus smartphones to get Android 12

As of now, the fresh software is rolling out in Russia bundled with the firmware version 31.1004.0404.81 for the ZenFone 8. Whereas the ZenFone 8 Flip users can identify the package via the 31.1004.0404.69 number.

Asus has issued two changelogs for this update. The first one is for those who are shifting from Android 11 to Android 12 OS. The second is for the users who already run Android 12 OS on their respective smartphones. Check the list of changes from the drop-down list below.

Changelog

From Android 11 to Android 12

1. Please back up your data before upgrading to Android 12. If you want to downgrade the software version to Android 11 by the official software package, it will erase all data from your device.


2. Upgraded system to Android 12


3. Revamped Mobile Manager, Contacts, Phone, File Manager, Calculator, Clock, Gallery, Weather, Sound recorder, Settings, Data Transfer, Local backup, Setup wizard, System update apps


4. Adjusted Quick Settings panel, notification tray, and volume panel to Android 12 design


5. Added privacy dashboard, camera and microphone indicators, show clipboard access, approximate location access, and microphone access features


6. Replaced ASUS Safeguard with Android 12 Emergency SOS


7. Introduced new widget page design in Launcher. Adjusted the position of the screenshot option and removed the hotseat app icons on the Overview page


8. Removed the Quick Settings layout option in the Display settings


9. ASUS Phone removed SIP calling support as Android 12 does not natively support SIP calling


10. Some 3rd party apps are not compatible with Android 12 yet

From Android 12 to Android 12

1. Improved charging quality


2. Enabled Telenor VoLTE and VoWiFi in Sweden


3. Fixed issue where Netflix would occasionally be missing in Workspace


4. Fixed the occasional issue with "system UI not responding" when some applications are turned to landscape

The incremental rollout will take a while to reach all units. Meanwhile, you can visit Settings > System > System updates to track the build manually.

Read more: Asus releases new software update for the ROG Phone II

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Download OnePlus Notes App Latest Version [Old Versions Archive]

A Notes app isn’t something the user will put their mind on. But OnePlus Notes App could get your attention. The platform allows you to add everything from text, to to-do items, pictures, and more. Moreover, you can pin your important writings and share them with friends. Also, the date and time for any reminder could be set inside the app.

Must see: How to root OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 pro

Download OnePlus Notes App

• [January 6, 2022]: A new version v12.1.28 is rolling out for the OnePlus Notes app. The global users of OxygenOS 11 or later can download from the link below. Check out the changelog below.

What's New:

The newly added features in Notes!
1. All new feature, Doodles!
Inspiration and doodles go hand in hand. Now access a variety of paintbrushes and colors and make your phone can a canvas for ideas.

2. To-do list
Easily arrange work and life errands to check them off one by one.

3. More text styles
New text style functions such as bold, italic, underline, center, and text size to make your content more layered.

Download version v12.1.28

• [December 28, 2022]: The global users of OxygenOS 11 or later can download the new update for the OnePlus Notes app with version v12.1.26. Refer to the changelog below to know the build.

What's New:

The newly added features in Notes!
1. All new feature, Doodles!
Inspiration and doodles go hand in hand. Now access a variety of paintbrushes and colors and make your phone can a canvas for ideas.

2. To-do list
Easily arrange work and life errands to check them off one by one.

3. More text styles
New text style functions such as bold, italic, underline, center, and text size to make your content more layered.

Download version v12.1.26

• [December 8, 2021]: OnePlus Notes app is out with version v12.1.24 for the global users of OxygenOS 12 or later. Here is what it brings!

What's New:

The newly added features in Notes!
1. All new feature, Doodles!
Inspiration and doodles go hand in hand. Now access a variety of paintbrushes and colors and make your phone can a canvas for ideas.

2. To-do list
Easily arrange work and life errands to check them off one by one.

3. More text styles
New text style functions such as bold, italic, underline, center, and text size to make your content more layered.

Download version v12.1.24

Related: Download OnePlus Store App Latest Version [Old Versions Archive]

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[Update: System Optimization] Xiaomi 12 series Updates Tracker

Xiaomi ended the year 2021 on a good note with the launch of the Mi 12 series in the home country. The lineup includes three smartphones— Xiaomi 12, 12 Pro, and 12X. Needless to say, the Pro variant is relatively better than the stand phone in terms of screen size and camera. But, both smartphones are fueled by the Snapdragon 8 Gen1 chipset. Whereas, the Xiaomi 12X is the cheaper version run by Snapdragon 870 SoC. The trio comes pre-installed with Android 12 OS paired with MIUI 13 on top. Here is the list of updates the company has released for the series.

Must see: Next-gen customized skin by Xiaomi: MIUI 13 Features

Note: This is an updates tracker and the page will be updated in descending order with every build released for the Xiaomi 12 series.

Xiaomi 12 Series Updates Tracker

• [January 7, 2022]: A new software update is rolling out for the Xiaomi 12 and 12 Pro smartphones in China. It bears the PDA version V13.0.16.0.SLCCNXM and V13.0.16.0.SLBCNXM respectively. Keep in mind that the build is currently in the Stable Beta Recovery phase. You can check out the changelog below.

Changelog

Optimized system performance
Improved system security and stability

• [January 3, 2022]: Xiaomi 12X gets its first software update in China with firmware version V13.0.10.0.RLDCNXM. The update brings some fixes and optimizations for a smooth performance. Visit our dedicated article to know the precise changes.

The OTA update will be pushed in different batches and may take some time to reach all the users. Alternatively, you can navigate to Settings  > Software Update > Check for the Update to manually track the package.

Related: [Update: System Optimization] Xiaomi Mi 11 Series Updates Tracker

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The latest Pixel 3 update resolves the emergency calling bug

Google ended the major software update road for Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL last October. Fortunately, the company did not neglect the issues that are still faced by the users. With the latest update, there's a permanent fix for the issue to prevent emergency calls.

Make sure to visit: Install Stable GCAM 8.3 APK on any Android smartphone

Recently, a Google Pixel 3 user reported the 911 emergency calling glitch. The complaint got attention and the company decided to list the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL to receive this bug fix update. However, the software is not packed with the latest security maintenance.

All of the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL smartphones are receiving the update, including Verizon-locked variants. The package can be identified by the firmware version SP1A.210812.016.A2 that weighs just 500KB in size. After flashing the update, you will face no problem while calling 911.

For the information, Android 12 was the last major update for the duo. Also, The company announced last November that users will get their last update next year in Q1. Accordingly, this could be the build released for the smartphones

Read more: The latest Google Chrome update arrives with 37 security fixes!

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Moto Edge X30 hit BIS with Snapdragon 8 Gen1 chipset

Last month, Motorola launched the Moto Edge X30 in China with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset. The smartphone is supposed to debut in India this month or in early February. Recently, it hit the BIS certification with the model number XT2201-01, hinting at an imminent launch.

Must see: Install Stable GCAM 8.3 APK on any Android smartphone

Though the BIS listing does not reveal much about the Moto Edge X30. We do have the exact specifications and price of the device from its China launch. The smartphone flaunts a 6.7-inch OLED FHD+ display with a 144Hz refresh rate. Further, the panel offers a touch sampling rate of 576Hz, 2400×1080 pixels resolution, HDR10+, and 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut.

As mentioned, the Moto Edge X30 draws power from the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset. You can purchase the phone in three storage variants of 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, and 256GB 12GB RAM. On the software front, it boosts Android 12 OS out of the box paired with MYUI 3.0 on top.

In the optics department, the Moto Edge X30 houses a 60MP front-facing camera. On the other side, there's a triple camera island. It equips a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle snapper, and a 2MP third-sensor. A 5000 mAh battery keeps the screen alive with a help of 68W Fast charging.

For security purposes, the Moto Edge X30 has an in-display fingerprint sensor. Also, the connectivity features are standard including 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, and USB Type-C port.  Additionally, the phone measures 163.56 X 75.95 X 8.49mm and weighs 194 grams.

Read more: List of Motorola phones to get Android 12 update

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Android 12 update goes live for Galaxy A52

After rolling out the Android 12 update to most of its premium flagships, Samsung is now shifting to the lower tier of devices. After hitting Galaxy A72, the One UI 4.0 package is now live for the Galaxy A52.

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

As of now, the Android 12 x One UI 4.0 software for the Galaxy A52 is rolling out in Russia. The users in other countries could get the build in the next few weeks. Russian users can identify by the firmware version A525FXXU4BUL8.

Further, the update is bundled with the December 2021 security patch, not with the current security maintenance. Anyway, you will get a plethora of new features, changes, and other improvements. The major attraction is the Color Palette feature that extracts color from your existing wallpaper and applies it all over the system. Moreover, you get a revamped UI, improved AOD, new widgets, enhanced privacy, security, and a lot more.

The Galaxy A52 users in Russia will get the update notification soon, in case you haven't received it yet. If you are particularly impatient, you can track the software manually by navigating to Settings > Software update. If the update pops up, tap on Download and install.

Read more: Samsung Galaxy S20 FE Exynos receives Android 12 update

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Xiaomi 11i 5G launched in India with Dimensity 920 SoC for ₹24,999

Xiaomi released the Mi 11 Series last year in China. The lineup majorly includes five smartphones Mi 11, Mi 11 Lite, Mi 11 Pro, Mi 11i, and Mi 11 Ultra. One of these devices, the Xiaomi 11i has finally arrived in India. Let's check out out the handset in detail.

Must see: Download Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold wallpapers

The Xiaomi 11i features a 6.67-inch FHD+ E2 AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The panel supports a touch sampling rate of 360Hz, 395ppi of pixel density, and offers up to 1200nits of peak brightness.

Concerning hardware, an octa-core processor-based Mediatek Dimensity 920 chipset fuels the Xiaomi 11i. On the software front, the phone boosts Android 11 out of the box tossed with the MIUI 12.5 Enhanced edition on top. It is available in 128 GB of storage capacity coupled with up to 8GB of RAM.

For shooting, you get a 108MP triple camera island on the rear side. The other lenses include an 8MP ultra-wide shooter and a 2MP macro shooter. For selfies and video calls, it houses a 16MP front-facing snapper.

Further, Xiaomi 11i packs a 5,160mAh battery that supports 67W of fast charging over a USB Type-C port. The other additional information includes a Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, 8.34mm thickness, Gorilla Glass 5 protection, and IP53 certification for dust and water resistance.

Price and Availability

The Xiaomi 11i 5G is priced at ₹24,999 for the lower variant, while it goes up to ₹26,999 for the upper model. Fortunately, you get a discount of ₹15,00 as a 'New Year' gift. Plus, SBI card users will get an additional cashback of up to ₹2,500. Also, you can exchange your existing Redmi Note phone to get an extra discount of ₹4,000.

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Related: iQOO 9 & iQOO 9 Pro launched with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC for $627

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iQOO 9 & iQOO 9 Pro launched with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC for $627

iQOO has come up with a new high-end series in China— iQOO 9. The lineup includes two devices, namely iQOO 9 and iQOO 9 Pro. The smartphones are up for purchase in China in three color variants of Black, Orange, and Legendary. Take a look at these smartphones in detail.

Must see: Best smartphones under $200

Starting with the iQOO 9, the smartphone features a 6.78-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display. The panel offers an HDR10+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. The screen size for the Pro variant remains the same. However, it sports a Quad HD+ curved E5 LTPO AMOLED screen with HDR10+ and a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz.

Under the hood, the iQOO 9 and 9 Pro draws power from the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset based on an octa-core processor and Adreno next-gen GPU. On the software front, both devices run on Android 12 OS along with OriginOS Ocean on top. They are available in three storage variants of up to 512GB and 12GB RAM.



The smartphones majorly in terms of camera. They house a triple camera unit at the back panel led by a 50MP primary sensor. For the iQOO 9, the other capabilities include a 13MP ultra-wide and a 13MP portrait camera. Whereas, the iQOO 9 Pro carries a 50MP ultra-wide and a 16MP portrait snapper. On the other side, there's a standard 16MP selfie shooter on both phones.

A 4700mAh battery keeps the screen lightened up with a help of 120W ultra-fast flash charging. The Pro model has an upper hand here as well as it also supports 50W of wireless charging and 10W of reverse wireless charging.

Price:

iQOO 9

8GB + 256GB: 3999 yuan (~627$)
12GB + 256GB: 4399 yuan (~689$)
12GB + 512GB: 4799 yuan (~752$)

iQOO 9 Pro

8GB + 256GB: 4999 yuan (~784$)
12GB + 256GB: 5499 yuan (~862$)
12GB + 512GB: 5999 yuan (~940$)

Related: iQOO Neo5 SE key details leaked ahead of launch

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OxygenOS A.16 update rolling out for the OnePlus Nord 2 5G

OnePlus Nord 2 5G has started receiving a new OxygenOS update. The last update for the smartphone arrived less than two weeks ago. It seems that the company does want to leave any lag in the device even though it is eligible to get only two major Android upgrades.

Make sure to visit: Grab OnePlus Nord 2 PacMan Edition Icon Pack & Live Wallpapers from here

The latest software bumps the version number to OxygenOS A.16. As of now, it is rolling out in India, Europe, and North America. For the Indian users, the package is bundled with the firmware version DN2101_11.A.16. Whereas, it can be identified via the DN2103_11.A.16 version for the European and North American models.

Regarding changes, the company delivers the December 2021 security patch with the package along with a few fixes and improvements. The build addresses several known issues including the loss of Google call recording in the Indian variant. Read the changelog below for more details.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to 2021.12
  
  
  • Fixed the loss of Google call recording ---(IN only)
  
  
  • Fixed known issues and improved system stability
  
  
  
  


• Camera
  
  
  
  • Improved video stability when AI Video Enhancement is on
  
  
  
  


• Bluetooth
  
  
  
  • Fixed the issue of unclear calls on connected Bluetooth devices
  
  
  
  

As always, the OTA update is having an incremental rollout. Thus, it will take a while to reach all users in the region. Meanwhile, you can also track the update manually via the Software update section under the Settings app.

Read more: OnePlus 9 & 9 Pro get C.40 update based on OxygenOS 12

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