Wednesday, January 12, 2022

[Update: January 2022 Security Patch] Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Updates Tracker

At the beginning of 2022, Samsung officially announced the Galaxy S21 FE with a 6.4-inch display and Snapdragon 888 chipset. The phone boosts Android 12 OS out of the box with One UI 4.0 skin on top. In terms of camera, it houses a 12MP triple rear camera and a 32MP single front-facing camera. The device comes in three storage capacities of up to 256GB and 8GB RAM. Here we will list all the updates the company has released for the Galaxy S21 FE since launch.

Galaxy S21 FE
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Note: The page will be updated in descending order (date-wise) with every build released for the Galaxy S21 FE.

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Updates Tracker



  • [January 12, 2022]: Samsung is releasing the January 2022 security patch to the Galaxy S21 FE. The build arrives with the firmware version G990EXXU1BUL5 which is currently rolling out in Thailand.


The versions are spinning out in batches, thus, taking a while to reach all units. Alternatively, you can also head to Settings > Software updates to track the build manually. Also, make sure to switch over to a WiFi network to avoid carrier data charges.
Related: [Update: January 2022 Security Patch] Galaxy Tab S6 Updates Tracker

[Update: Bug Fixes] Google Messages Updates Tracker

Google Messages is one of the best messaging apps available. The reason being its convenient and comfortable design with rich features. To mention a few, you can share multimedia files directly, get instant notifications, and have powerful search options. Moreover, you can also share locations, make and receive payments directly via Google Pay, and do much more. Here is the list of updates Google has released for the messaging app.

GOOGLE MESSAGES

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Note: The page will be updated in descending order (date-wise) with every update released for Google Messages.

Google Messages Updates Tracker



  • [January 12, 2022]: A new version V10.7.462 is rolling out for the Google Messages app. The build is not major but it addresses some bugs and brings stability improvements.

  • [June 30, 2021]: The Star messages feature is rolling out for Google Messages on Android. The ability to star texts and images in Google Messages is rolling out on version 8.4, which is currently in the beta phase. You can read more in our dedicated article.

  • [June 21, 2021]: New features are rolling out with Google Messages version 8.3.026. You can read the list of changes here.

  • [June 19, 202]: A new build of Google Messages is available for both Android 11 and Android 12 users via beta version 8.3.026. The version will enable the user to pin your priority conversations at the top. Click here to read more.

  • [March 12, 2021]: Google messages started to test a new feature in which the OTP messages are deleted automatically after 24 hr hours. This feature was first spotted in September 2020 and is expected to be available for users very soon. Read more here.

  • [February 24, 2021]: You can finally schedule messages on the Google Messaging app. After enabling the feature, users can type or attach a message and then set a date and time for it to be sent. Visit our dedicated article to read more.


Related: [Update: December 2021 Security patch] Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro Update Tracker

OnePlus 10 Pro appears on BIS; India launch seems imminent

The Chinese giant recently announced the OnePlus 10 Pro in the home country. It seems that the smartphone could soon make its debut in India. The device has bagged one of the important certifications from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

OnePlus 10 Pro

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The OnePlus 10 Pro spotted at the BIS database has the model number NE2211. Though the listing does not reveal anything significant. We already have the official specifications of the smartphone.

OnePlus 10 Pro specifications


The OnePlus 10 Pro will feature a punch-hole design with a 6.78-inch curved edge AMOLED display. The panel offers a 120Hz refresh rate, an in-screen fingerprint scanner, a QHD+ resolution, and a Gorilla Glass Victus protection.

In the optics department, the OnePlus 10 Pro will house a single 32MP front camera. On the other side, it will carry a triple camera unit with dual OIS support and 3x zoom. It equips a 50 MP primary lens, a 50 MP ultrawide shooter with a 150-degree FOV, and an 8 MP telephoto angle with a second-generation Hasselblad sensor.

OnePlus 10 Pro

Under the hood, the OnePlus 10 Pro will run the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset paired with 12GB RAM and 256GB of storage. On the software front, it will run on Android 12 OS out of the box along with OxygenOS 12 on top.

In addition, the OnePlus 10 Pro will ship with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging and 50W wireless charging. The device could launch a couple of weeks after the OnePlus 9RT, which is set to debut on January 14.
Read more: OnePlus Buds Pro gets Dual Connection support with the latest update

OnePlus Buds Pro gets Dual Connection support with the latest update

Do you ever feel the need to connect your wireless earbuds with more than one device at the same time? Certainly, many of us do. Well, OnePlus is offering a solution called "Dual Connection support" with the latest update for the Buds Pro.

OnePlus Buds Pro

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As the name suggests, it will allow the user to switch seamlessly between any two different devices. The buds will save the pairing information for both at once. OnePlus claims that the feature is different from what we get on other buds.

For instance, say you are watching a movie on the computer using your Buds Pro. The earbuds will automatically switch over in case your phone rings. In addition, "You probably won’t even notice any kind of delay." says OnePlus

The update is live for the Buds Pro users via version number 531.531.410. Although the last three digits of the number might slightly vary depending upon your location. But that doesn't matter. In case you are wondering how to set up two different devices, follow the below steps after flashing the update:

  • Open the Headphone Settings under Bluetooth Settings or the “Hey Melody” App if you are a OnePlus device user.
    Therein, you will see “Dual Connection”

  • Open the “Dual Connection” menu and turn on the toggle.
    Your device will be listed under “Connected devices.”

  • Close the lid for the Buds Pro and open it again.

  • Press the pairing button on the inside for 3-5 secs until you see a slow flashing white light on the front.

  • Finally, you’re ready to pair it with your second device.
    Both of the devices will now appear under “Connected Devices.”


Read more: OnePlus 10 Pro specifications are confirmed officially!

Galaxy A42 5G joins the Android 12 update party!

Samsung has left behind all the other smartphone brands in terms of updates. The company has already deployed Android 12 to its top-tier flagships. Now, it has shifted to mid-range devices. After Galaxy A52 and Galaxy A52s, the predecessor Galaxy A42 5G is now joining the update party.

Galaxy A42 5G

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Currently, the Verizon variants in the US and South Korean units of Galaxy A42 5G can flash the latest One UI 4.0 based package. Also, it will take a while for it to reach other countries and the US unlocked models. Anyway, for now, the users can identify the build through the firmware version A426USQU3BUL8.

The Android 12 One UI 4.0 will change your entire user experience with revamped UI and extensive features. Moreover, counting the privacy dashboard and camera/microphone indicators, the software will also enhance the security. In addition, Verizon mentions the addition of dynamic wallpaper, emoji creator, grammar correction, improved video collages, driving monitor, redesigned widgets, much more. On the top, it inculcates the December 2021 security patch as well.

The incremental rollout may take a while to reach out to every single unit. To avoid the wait, you can simply head to Settings > About phone > Software updates > Check for Updates. If the version is available for your device, tap on Download and Install.
Read more: [Update rolling out in the US] Android 12 One UI 4.0 update reaches out to original Galaxy Z Flip

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Specs Comparison: iQOO Neo 5S vs Motorola Edge S30

At the near ending of 2021, iQOO, and Motorola came up with new smartphones— iQOO Neo 5S and Moto Edge S30. The mid-range devices are limited to China as of now. Here we will compare both of these budget devices based on their key specs so you can choose the better one yourself!

iQOO Neo 5S vs Motorola Edge S30

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The iQOO Neo 5S and Moto Edge S30 have some common features that are mentioned as follow:

Similarities



  • Operating System: Android 11

  • Storage Configuration: 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM

  • Front Camera: 16 MP wide

  • Connectivity: dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS Yes, with A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS

  • Sensor: accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass


As you might have noticed, there aren’t many factors of the two devices that we can consider homogenous. So here we have crafted the difference between iQOO Neo 5S and Moto Edge S30 in a tabular form to make it easier for you to take a glimpse.

iQOO Neo 5S vs Motorola Edge S30


[table id=57 /]
Related: Comparing Samsung Galaxy F42 5g vs Galaxy M52 5g

Vivo Y33T launched in India for ₹18,990

Vivo has introduced a new smartphone for the Indian market— Vivo Y33T. Starting today, you can purchase the smartphone from leading online and offline stores in two color variants of Midday Dream and Mirror Black. It will cost you ₹18,990 for the single 8GB RAM + 128GB storage model. Take a detailed look at the smartphone here!

Vivo Y33T

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The Vivo Y33T features a waterdrop notch full-HD+ display with a screen size of 6.58-inch. The panel offers a 90Hz refresh rate and 1,080 x 2,408 pixels resolution. The additional 5,000mAh battery increases the weight of the device to 182 grams. The power cell supports 18W of fast charging and measures 164.26 x 76.08 x 8mm in dimensions.

Vivo Y33T holds a triple camera island at the back led by a 50MP primary sensor. The other arrangements include a 2MP depth sensor and a 2MP macro snapper. On the other side, there's a 16 MP front-facing shooter.

Vivo Y33T

Under the hood, Vivo Y33T fuels an octa-core processor-based Snapdragon 680 chipset. Further, it boosts Android 12 OS out of the box paired with FunTouch OS 12 on top. The phone offers 128GB of default storage and 8GB of RAM which can be extended up to 4GB using the device's internal storage.

For connectivity, it supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth v5.0, GPS/ A-GPS, FM radio, microSD card, and a USB Type-C port. Additionally, you get an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, magnetometer, proximity, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Read more: Vivo X70 Pro+ gets stable FunTouch OS 12 update based on Android 12

Specs Comparison: Xiaomi 12X vs Realme GT Neo2

Here we will compare two smartphones from different Chinese brands— Xiaomi 12X and Realme GT Neo2. The Xiaomi 12X is the cheapest model from the latest Mi 12 series. While the Realme GT Neo2 is a mid-range device that debuted in September 2021.

Xiaomi 12X vs Realme GT Neo2

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Before you start comparing the smartphones, take a look at the common grounds of the Xiaomi 12X and Realme GT Neo2.

Similarities



  • Processor: Snapdragon 870 chipset, Octa-core CPU, Adreno 650 GPU

  • Storage Configuration: 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM

  • Display features: 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution, 20:9 ratio

  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot, Bluetooth, GPS, USB Type-C 2.0

  • Sensors: Under display & optical Fingerprintaccelerometer, proximity, gyro, compass


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Now that you know the similarities, let’s move to the differences. To make it easier for you, we have portrayed the difference in a tabular form.

Xiaomi 12X vs Realme GT Neo2


[table id=55 /]
Related: Comparing allies: Xiaomi 12 vs Xiaomi 12 Pro

Poco 2201116PG 5G spotted on FCC with MIUI 13

We can soon see a new Poco smartphone in the market. Recently, a new device by the company with model number 2201116PG made it to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Poco X4 NFC 5G

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Though the FCC listing does not reveal the smartphone's name. But, some rumors suggest that it could be Poco X4 NFC 5G. Besides the supported model number, the listing reveals a few connectivity details and operating systems onboard.

The FCC listing discloses that the Poco X4 NFC 5G will have MIUI 13 on board. Considering the skin version, it is likely to arrive with the Android 12 operating system out of the box. As the same suggests, it is an NFC-supported handset with 5G connectivity. Also, it mentions the support for dual-band WiFi.

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For the record, a Redmi phone also arrived on FCC with model number 2201116SR. This device is Redmi Note 11T Pro. As the model numbers are similar for the Redmi and Poco smartphones, it suggests that these devices will come with similar features. In fact, one of these might be a rebranded version of the other. In simpler words, Poco X4 NFC 5G could debut as Redmi Note 11T Pro in some markets.

Back in November, POCO X4 NFC with the same model number was spotted on the IMEI database. With the device's listing on these certifications, the launch seems to be approaching.
Read more: Poco F3 GT get MIUI 12.5 Enhanced Edition update in India