Thursday, February 3, 2022

Download Smart Sidebar Latest Version [Old Versions Archived]

Smart Sidebar is where you can enjoy multitasking at its best. It allows you to have quick access to your favorite apps and tools. You can jump between different apps, reply to a text, take screenshots, transfer files, and do more while playing a game or watching a video. Prior, you have to enable Smart Sidebar via Settings > Smart & Convenient > Smart Sidebar, and toggle the button.

Smart Sidebar

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Here are all the updates Realme spun for the Smart Sidebar. You can find the latest build at the top followed by the previous release. Just find your required version and click on the download button.

Download Smart Sidebar



  • [February 3, 2022]: The Smart Sidebar is receiving a new update on version v12.0.36. The build is live for the global users of Realme UI and ColorOS 7


Download version v12.0.36




  • [January 3, 2022]: A new build with version v12.0.32 is rolling out for the Smart Sidebar. The update is compatible with the global users of Realme UI and ColorOS 7


Download version v12.0.32




  • [December 5, 2021]: The global users of Realme UI and ColorOS 7 can flash the new update of Smart Sidebar with version v12.0.31


Download version v12.0.31




  • [November 15, 2021]: Download the new version v12.0.29 of the Smart Sidebar on your smartphones running Realme UI and ColorOS 7


Download version v12.0.29



Related: Download Realme Weather App Latest update [Old Versions Archive]

Pixel 6 and 6 Pro users face Bluetooth connection issues

Pixel 6 series is one of the best smartphones Google has ever made. However, with every pro, there are cons. Besides a feature-packed device, there are a plethora of bugs that users are facing.

Pixel 6
Must see: Download Pixel 6 Ringtone (Android 12)

This time, users have reported that their smartphone denies a strong Bluetooth connection. In certain scenarios like when the device is connected to a car, the phone cycled through disconnecting and reconnecting over and over again. The same is the case with wireless headphones and other supported devices, which is really annoying.

To resolve the issue, users tried all possible methods including restarting the device and forgetting the Pixel 6 via a connected device. However, the phone failed to reconnect to the head unit. To mention, the January update for the series was supposed to fix the problem. Unfortunately, we know how that failed! Here are some of the complaints:
Please help me. I traded in my Samsung so I’m stuck with this phone and this Bluetooth issue is driving me nuts.

My pixel 6 pro disconnects Bluetooth phone calls in my Prius after a few minutes on the phone call and sometimes will drop the call in the process. The car will then disconnect and reconnect the Bluetooth in a loop. After that, I have to restart the phone for the Bluetooth to work again.

Pixel 6 pro keeps skipping during songs when on Bluetooth

At the time of writing, there is no official word from the company. But, we expect this issue to be resolved in future developments. Also, let us know if you face any difficulty with your Pixel device in the comment section below.
Read more: Chrome 98 Released: Check Out What's New!

Telegram 8.5 updates with video stickers, better reactions, and more

Telegram is the leading app if we talk about updates and features. The platform never fails to amuse users with its improvements, luring more users. In the latest update, Telegram 8.5 brings in new elements, including video stickers, better reactions, and more.

Telegram

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Most of the features of Telegram 8.5 intend to make your conversations more gripping. The update is rolling out for all iOS and Android users and here is what it carries.

Video Stickers


Telegram 8.5 allows you to convert regular videos into stickers. This implies that anyone can create custom stickers in any video editing program.

Better Reactions


Reactions will now be synchronized and will display packed animations. You can press and hold on to a reaction to give it a larger effect. And the recipients will see the animations in real-time. In addition, there will be a "read status" for reactions as well. A new ♡ button will appear when your messages have unseen reactions.

New Reactions and Interactive Emoji


You will get five new reactions: 🥰🤯🤔🤬👏 after updating to Telegram 8.5. Moreover, you can see them in a synchronized fullscreen effect by tapping on the animated emoji.

Navigating Recent Chats


We often switch chats in between. It is now easy as you just have to press and hold the 'Back' button to return to a specific chat. Add your conversation to the list and jump at the dance of your fingertips.

Bug Busting and More


Telegram 8.5 squash several known bugs and improves the call quality. Furthermore, it now enables you to send silent messages from the sharing menu. Along with a bunch of other improvements, it also supports translation to Instant View pages. In the end, there's an animated surprise for iOS users.


Read more: Android Auto squashes the Android 12 notification bug

Chrome 98 Released: Check Out What's New!

Adhering to its 4-week update schedule, Google released the Chrome 98. The version arrives with upgraded emojis, a new screenshot tool. The February release emphasizes the "Privacy Guide" for checking and gauging your privacy settings. Let's check out these changes in detail.

Chrome 98

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Upgraded Emojis


Emojis in Chrome look cleaner as they are scaled better and are smaller in size. Technically, Chrome 98 executes a new set of COLRv1 Color Gradient Vector Fonts. Well, you may not see improvement in small emojis, try zooming in and change your mind!


Moreover, Google is also experimenting with the ability to add emojis to screenshots on Android. You need to activate the feature to test, after which it adds a new “Add Emotion” button to the share menu. To do so, look for the below flag




  • chrome://flags/#lightweight-reactions-android.


Screenshot Tool


Unlike before, Chrome 98 will allow you to take screenshots without having to crop them. Thanks to the built-in screenshot tool. To find the option, click on the share icon in the address bar > Screenshot button. The option is fun, however, the feature is not stable. If you are interested to test, enable these flags.

  • chrome://flags/#sharing-desktop-screenshots

  •  chrome://flags/#sharing-desktop-screenshots-edit



Privacy Guide


Privacy Guide is the major feature of Chrome 98. As the name suggests, you can track your browser's privacy and security with this feature. The option can be found under the “Security & Privacy” settings of Chrome. This as well is hidden behind a flag that you have to enable from

  • chrome://flags/#privacy-review




This is a server-side update and will be installed automatically on your device. To track the version, click on the three-dot menu icon > Help > About Google Chrome.
Read more: Gmail for web adopts a fresh organized redesign

Wednesday, February 2, 2022

YouTube video player gets a new UI on Android and iOS

YouTube is rolling out a new update for its mobile app via version 17.03.35. After updating, the Android and iOS users will receive a new video player UI. It will bring in a full-screen player containing all key elements.


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The update will add adds a row of icons in the bottom left corner, making it easier for the user to like/ dislike a video, view comments, and share. On the right side, there are more recommended videos. Earlier, the options were hidden behind a swipe-up gesture. Also, you get listening controls while watching a music video in the middle.

Moreover, the comment section is easily accessible on the right side while playing the video in landscape. You just have to tap and pull the comment button. Earlier, you had to hap on the comment section while in portrait mode.

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To note, you can only note the difference while watching on full-screen or landscape mode. Your interaction with key functions is minimized and more flexible. However, while watching a video in portrait mode, it's almost the same. As mentioned, you can like/dislike the video conveniently. On the contrary, you can not see the numbers.




The server-side update started rolling out already on Monday. That means it will automatically find a way to hit your device in a while. Alternatively, you can try checking in to the Play Store and look if the new version is available for your smartphone.
Read more: Gmail for web adopts a fresh organized redesign

Android Auto gets a new update with refreshed UI & screen mirroring

Google is consistent in updating Android Auto with new features and tweaks. However, it's been a couple of years since the platform got a major overhaul. Well, finally Google ha started working over the next build codenamed “Coolwalk.”

android auto

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The project was first spotted last year in September. Now, it has reached a new stage where the elements look much like Apple CarPlay. Reportedly, Android Auto version 7.3 will arrive as the next major update.

To begin with, it will feature a hamburger-style menu that will house options like weather and music player. Also, the top status bar is merged into the bottom dock, leaving more room on the primary interface. Unlike before, the side panel will be activated by long-pressing the home button, which will pop up the retractable widgets.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="full" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="122923,122922"]

Moreover, the status bar is discarded. In addition, the navigation interface is persistent side even after exiting the navigation map view. Furthermore, screen mirroring is likely to be a part of Android Auto's upcoming update. That means you can transmit the Android Auto app right on your car’s screen.

Alongside, Android Auto will allow asking Google Assistant to reject calls and send SMSs. It can also recommend streaming videos while driving and delivering better notification management AI.

Anyway, we can not confirm when the update will start rolling out officially. We expect it to arrive after a couple of months at the Google I/O event.

Nokia 7.2 gets Android 11 update with December 2021 Security Patch

While other OEMs are busy deploying Android 12, Nokia is still upgrading its older flagship with Android 11. The latest smartphone to receive the update is Nokia 7.2. This is the second major OS update for the device as it was launched in September 2019 running Android 9.0 (Pie) out of the box.

Nokia 7.2 India Launch

Make sure to visit: List of Nokia devices to get Android 12 update

The latest software for Nokia 7.2 is bundled with the firmware version number V3.490. The users in India, Indonesia, and Australia can flash the new update that weighs around 1.57 GB to download. Needless to say that the package will bring all the Android 11 goodies. Along with this, the update improves the system stability and inculcates the December 2021 patch.

Though the official changelog does not mention any precise changes. Needless to say, it will pack all that we expect from Android 11. This includes chat bubbles, one-time permissions, smart device controls, native screen recorder, enhanced dark theme, conversation management, and much more.

What's New?



  • Improved system stability

  • User interface enhancements

  • Google security patch 2021-12


If you own a Nokia 7.4, the OTA update will reach out to you automatically. Alternatively, you can check if the update has reached your device. To do this go to Settings > System update > Check for update, and tap on Download and install. Also, the company recommends keeping your device connected to a Wi-Fi network to avoid carrier data charges.
Read more: Nokia G50 receives stable Android 12 update in Finland

Gmail for web adopts a fresh organized redesign

Before the launch of Android 12, Google started providing a new look to its stock apps. Even the non-Android platforms were refreshed. Following the steps, Gmail for Web is getting redesigned with a more organized look. This new ‘integrated view’ style seems to take cues from the latest OS.

[caption id="attachment_109574" align="aligncenter" width="696"]Gmail Gmail[/caption]

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The web version of Gmail has been the same for a while. But Google finally decided to tweak it by giving some cosmetic and functional changes. The primary difference you can see is that the color scheme has changed. The compose button and accented elements which were red before are now blue.

In addition, the inbox will now display more rounded corners. Also, you will see a pill-shaped indicator while selecting a conversation. Moreover, the update will compress the conversations on the left side of the window. If you notice, the changes are Material You centered that intend to make the view clearer.

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With the new design, you will see chats on the left side of the inboxes as small buttons. These buttons will open up as chat bubbles when clicked. Presently, as the chats are housed on the left side, they can get cluttered if there are many.

The feature is not available currently. Google is expected to roll out the update on February 8th. Once the version arrives, you’ll be prompted to see the redesign. Also, you can always switch back to the classic view in case you don't like the update.
Read more: Android Auto squashes the Android 12 notification bug

WhatsApp can roll out message reactions feature soon

A few months ago, WhatsApp was spotted testing an iMessage-like message reactions feature. It seems that the feature has started developing and it could roll out sooner than we expect.

WhatsApp

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As per Wabetainfo, the future WhatsApp Beta update for Android and iOS can carry the message reactions feature. Also, this reaction will be secured by end-to-end encryption. The feature is all like we have on Instagram and Facebook. A bunch of emojis will be available to choose from for reaction.

To mention, taping on the message will show you a handful of emojis that you can send. However, initially, WhatsApp will roll out limited emojis, but the options will go up with time. Anyway, be it personal inbox or group chats, every user will be able to view a panel listing some of the limited emoji while tapping onto the message. Here is how it will look, as shared by Wabetainfo:



As mentioned, the message reactions will be secure and end-to-end encrypted. This implies that nobody outside the chat can see your reactions. In addition, “Messages can have an infinite number of reactions, but if you have more than 999 reactions, you will read “999+," says the report.
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