Tuesday, February 8, 2022

Samsung can provide four years of major OS updates to supported phones

Samsung is ahead of all of the other OEMs in the race of updates. Well, that was not the case before. A few years back, the Korean tech giant extended its Android OS update policy from two to three years, setting an example for other companies. Now again, the company might do it at Galaxy Unpacked 2022 event.

Samsung

Make sure to visit: Apply these Galaxy S22 wallpapers on your current smartphone!

According to recent leaks, Samsung is planning to extend the Android update policy for its latest smartphones. Instead of three years, the devices may get four major Android upgrades. Moreover, the same leaks suggest that the security patches will be deployed for five years instead of four.

As mentioned, the policy will be applicable only on the latest flagships. This could include Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Z Flip 3. In addition, the upcoming Galaxy Tab S8 lineup will also be on the list of supported devices.

That means if you buy a Samsung device running Android 12 say, Galaxy S22 or Tab S8, you will be eligible to get an Android 16 update somewhere in 2025-2026. On top, your phone will get five years of security update support. Isn't that amazing?

If the reports stand true, it will change the game for Samsung. The life of the Galaxy phones and tablets will be extended by a year. With a one-time investment, the Galaxy users can stay updated with Android OS features for years.

Galaxy Watch 4 Series gets enhanced health and wellness features

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 series is the best wearable from the company so far. This is the first time the company has dumped its Tizen OS for WearOS. The latest update for the watches enhances the health and wellness features. Also, it brings new customization options, making it more personalized than ever before.

Galaxy Watch 4

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Concerning changes, the update will introduce advanced interval training designed for cyclists or runners. It allows them to pre-set the duration, distance, and number of sets for their workout. Thereafter, the Galaxy Watch 4 will come up with a custom training session that will include both high-intensity and low-intensity workouts.

Moving on, there's a body composition update that provides a detailed understanding of their health advancement. Also, the Samsung Health app will render body composition acuities. To make the concept discernible, the company is providing a 30-day unrestricted trial.

Moreover, the fresh build designs a new sleep coaching program, helping users to acquire better sleep habits. The feature works by tracking sleep patterns for a week. Afterward, by completing two such surveys, the watch will assign you any sleep symbol animal from the picture below.



Furthermore, the update introduces more colors and digital clock fonts that allow users to customize the watch face. In addition, the Samsung Health Monitor app will expand to 11 more markets in March, including Canada, Vietnam, and South Africa. Also, there are more strap colors, fabric bands, and link bracelets on the way.



The software update will start rolling out on February 10 via the Galaxy Wearable app. While the straps will be available for purchase starting late February.
Read more: Specs Comparison: Honor Magic V vs Galaxy Z Fold 3

Honor 60 SE 5G debuts in China with Dimensity 9000 SoC for 2,199 yuan

Honor is adding one more device to the Honor 60 flagship. The new phone Honor 60 SE is launched in China. For the record, the lineup was launched a couple of months ago with two phones: Honor 60 and 60 Pro. Check out the new smartphone below.

Honor 60 SE 5G

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As mentioned, the company has announced the Honor 60 SE in the home country. However, the entire specifications are still under wrap. The smartphone is likely to feature a Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, as confirmed by Honor. You can get the device in two storage variants of 128 GB and 256 GB paired with 8 GB RAM.

In addition, the teased images depict a punch-hole cutout at the top-center that will house a 64 MP front cam. On the other side, Honor 60SE carries a 64 MP triple rear camera. The other lenses will stand at 8 MP ultra-wide-angle and a 2 MP tertiary sensor.

Honor 60 SE 5G

Moreover, as per the past leaks, the smartphone could run MediaTek Dimensity 9000 SoC under the helm. On the software front, the Android version will be tossed with Magic UI 5.0 on top. Also, Honor 60SE will support 66W fast charging. The battery capacity remains unknown though.

Price and Availability


The Honor 60 SE is already live for pre-orders in China. The smartphone will start shipping on February 18. From this day, you can get it from any channel. The device will cost 2,199 yuan ($345) for the base variant and goes up to 2,499 ($393) yuan for the upper model.
Read more: Specs Comparison: Honor Magic V vs Galaxy Z Fold 3

Google rolls out February 2022 update to supported Pixel smartphones

Today, Google announced the February 2022 update for its supported Pixel smartphones. The software is live for the devices running the latest Android 12 OS. Check out the official details below.

Pixel 6

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The February 2022 update is live globally for supported Pixel devices. Talking about the compatible phones, it covers Pixel 3a (XL) and onwards devices, including the Pixel 6 series. To install the fresh update, watch out for the following firmware versions for your respective smartphone.



Software versions



  • Pixel 3a (XL): SQ1A.220205.002


  • Pixel 4 (XL): SQ1A.220205.002


  • Pixel 4a: SQ1A.220205.002


  • Pixel 4a (5G): SQ1A.220205.002


  • Pixel 5: SQ1A.220205.002


  • Pixel 5a (5G): SQ1A.220205.002


  • Pixel 6: SQ1D.220205.003


  • Pixel 6 Pro: SQ1D.220205.003


Coming forth to changes, the build ensures the stability, safety, and security of your Pixel smartphone. In addition, the issues related to Bluetooth, camera, Keyboard, and connectivity will be resolved. Depending on your Pixel model, here's what it will carry:



Changelog


Framework (Pixel 3a and newer)

  • Fix for issue causing the keyboard to display over input text in certain conditions.


Telephony (select Pixel 4 models, Pixel 5)

  • Connectivity fixes for specific carrier networks.


Camera (Pixel 6, 6 Pro)

  • Fix for issue causing device reboot when using the camera in certain conditions.


Bluetooth (Pixel 6, 6 Pro)

  • Fix for issue causing audio playback to disconnect while using certain Bluetooth devices.

  • General improvements for Bluetooth audio quality with certain media codecs.


Some of you might have received the update already as it started rolling out on Monday. However, in case you haven't, wait for the OTA to hit your device in the upcoming weeks.
Read more: The latest Google Chrome update arrives with 37 security fixes!

Monday, February 7, 2022

Realme 9 Pro and 9 Pro+ to debut on February 16, Check out more details here!

Realme 9 series is still in preparation. The lineup will consist of four models— Realme 9Realme 9i, Realme 9 Pro, and Realme 9 Pro+. While the former two models are already in light, the latter two will make an appearance on February 19. Here's everything we know about the Pro models.

Realme 9 Pro

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Reportedly, the Realme 9 Pro will flaunt an IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The smartphone will draw power from Snapdragon 695 processor. For shooting purposes, a 64 MP lens will lead the triple camera unit at the back. Moreover, the model will ship with a 5000mAh battery that supports a 33W power supply.

Also, the leaks suggest that the back panel of Realme 9 Pro will change color if exposed to direct sunlight. The phone will boot NFC and a single speaker.

Moving on, the Realme 9 Pro+ will feature a Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. The panel will offer an in-display fingerprint scanner and heart rate monitoring. Under the helm, the smartphone will equip MediaTek Dimensity 920 SoC.

In the optics section, the Realme 9 Pro+ will carry a 50MP triple rear camera and optical image stabilization (OIS). Furthermore, the smartphone will support 60W SuperDart fast charging technology. Additionally, there are dual speakers on board with NFC.

Lastly, both smartphones will offer Android 12 OS on day one paired with Realme UI 3.0. Realme 9 Pro and Realme 9 Pro+ will be available in two color variants of Aurora Green and Sunrise Blue. As mentioned, the smartphones are set to launch on February 16 and they will cost around ₹23,000 (approx $310).
Related: Realme C35 design and specs revealed before its launch on February 10

Realme C35 design and specs revealed before its launch on February 10

Realme C35 appeared on multiple certifications including, NBTC, BIS, SDPPI, 3C, and Geekbench. Also, the device bagged the FCC certification last month. According to the recent post by the company, the smartphone will be unveiled on February 10. Take a look at the device's design and specs before its official launch!

Realme C35

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Realme C35 will arrive in a green shade (or more) with a flat frame. The rear side of the device will carry triple camera lenses in a rectangular shape module aligned vertically. It will feature a 6.6-inch Full HD screen. Under the hood, the Realme C35 will draw power from a Unisoc T616 SoC.

Although the company's post only provides the above-mentioned details. Fortunately, we have more information, thanks to the Geekbench listing! On the software front, Realme C35 will boost Android 11 out of the box paired with Realme UI skin on top. The device will arrive in a 4 GB RAM variant as per the listing. However, more RAM options are yet to be confirmed.

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For shooting purposes, Realme C35's triple rear camera will be led by a 50 MP lens. Unfortunately, the capability of other sensors and the front shooter is still under wrap. But it's just a matter of days now!

A 5,000 mAh battery will keep the screen lightened up with the support of 18W fast charging. For connectivity, the options are standard including a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB-C port. To serve security, the power button on the right edge will also act as a fingerprint scanner.
Read more: Realme C31 appears on FCC with Android 11 OS pre-installed

Galaxy A53 specifications and design revealed in render leaks

We have been hearing about the Galaxy A53 5G since last October. The smartphone has bagged different certifications as well. Recently, the device was listed on Samsung's India website, revealing its design and colour. Here is what we know about the smartphone so far.

Galaxy A53 5G

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According to the leaks, the Galaxy A53 5G will be available in two colour variants of Black and White. Talking about the design, it will resemble the predecessor Galaxy A52. However, you may notice a fresh look around the camera module. The front camera will be housed inside a hole-punch cutout aligned at the centre. On the other side, there are quad rear lenses. In addition, the power and volume buttons are housed on the right edge.

Regarding specifications, several key details are revealed by different certifications, while some have managed to leak. The Galaxy A53 5G is likely to carry a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a full-HD resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. Underneath, it is suggested to fuel the Exynos 1200 chipset that might get paired up with 128GB of storage along with 6GB and 8GB RAM.

In the optics, the Galaxy A53 is tipped to house a 32 MP front-facing camera. The main camera is said to equip a 64 MP main lens. The other sensors can be a 12 MP ultrawide, 5 MP depth, and a 5 MP macro shooter.

Furthermore, Galaxy A53 will possibly ship with a 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging support. The other specifications can include a 5G connectivity, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and an in-display fingerprint sensor
Read more: Samsung Galaxy S10 users receiving bugs packed Android 12 update

Redmi 9A gets Android 11 based MIUI 12.5 Enhanced update globally

While Xiaomi is busy deploying the Android 12 update, the company is taking care of its older flagships as well. This time, the Redmi 9A is receiving an Android 11 update tossed with MIUI 12.5 Enhanced on top. The smartphone made an appearance in June 2020 with Android 10 OS paired with MIUI 12.

Redmi 9A

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The latest update for Redmi 9A is bundled with the firmware version V12.5.2.0.RCDMIXM. The build is rolling out globally weighing approximately 1.9 GB to download. It will unfurl to more regions in the upcoming weeks.

Coming forth to changes, after flashing the update, you will get all the Android 11 goodies. This includes UI customizations, chat bubbles, native screen recorder, enhanced dark theme, one-time permissions, camera optimizations, and much more. In addition, MIUI 12.5 enhanced edition adds some features that are essential for the seamless and fluid performance of the device. Further, you can check out the official changelog below:

Changelog


MIUI 12.5 Enhanced

  • Swift performance. More life between the charges.

  • Atomized memory: Ultra-fine memory management mechanism will make RAM usage more efficient.

  • Smart balance: Core system improvements allow your device to make the best of the flagship hardware specs.


System

  • Stable MIUI based on Android 11

  • Updated Android Security Patch to January 2022. Increased system security.


The users will receive the OTA build within a week as the update is rolling out in phases. Alternatively, you can also navigate the update via Settings -> About Phone > Software updates > Download and install.


Read more: Redmi Note 11S confirmed to accompany Note 11 launch in India 

Friday, February 4, 2022

Oppo Reno 7 & Reno 7 Pro launched in India with Android 11 based ColorOS 12

As reported, the anticipated Oppo Reno 7 and Reno 7 Pro are finally official in India. The smartphones are a part of leaks since their 2021 launch in China. To mention, the Reno 7 is a completely new device, while the Pro variant is the same as the Chinese model.

Oppo Reno 7

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Specification


OPPO Reno 7 5G 


The Oppo Reno 7 5G features a 6.4-inch FHD+ AMOLED display. The panel offers a 90Hz refresh rate and an in-display fingerprint scanner. Underneath, it draws power from MediaTek Dimensity 900 SoC paired with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage.

On the software front, you get Android 11 tossed with ColorOS 12 on top. The 4,500 battery on the back makes the device 7.81mm thick and weighs 173g. Also, the power cell supports 65W SuperVOOC fast charging. In addition, it features the trademark ‘Reno Glow’ design.

Oppo Reno 7

For shooting purposes, the Oppo Reno 7 5G carries a 64MP triple camera unit on the rear side. The main camera is accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide snapper and a 2MP macro sensor. On the other side, a 32MP front camera is housed inside a  punch-hole at the top left corner.

OPPO Reno 7 Pro 5G 


The Oppo Reno 7 Pro 5G provides a 6.5-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with the same features as the standard model. The device sports the ‘Reno Glow’ design with a flat metal frame. Also, there's an ‘Orbit Breathing Ligt’ around the rear camera unit for notifications.

Under the hood, it equips MediaTek Dimensity 1200-MAX chipset paired with 12GB RAM and 256GB of internal storage. Despite having the same battery capacity, the device measures 7.45mm in thickness and weighs 180g.

Oppo Reno 7 Pro

For optics, the Reno 7 Pro 5G carries a triple camera island led by a 50 MP primary snapper. The other lenses include an 8 MP ultra-wide snapper and a 2MP macro shooter. The front camera and the OS remain the same as the standard model.

Price and Availability


The smartphones are available in two color variants of Startrails Blue and Starlight Black. You can purchase the devices from Flipkart and various offline stores. The Reno7 Pro 5G will go on sale on February 8, while the Reno7 5G will take a week more till February 17. Here is the price list:

  • OPPO Reno7 5G (8GB + 256GB) – ₹28,999 ($388)

  • OPPO Reno7 Pro 5G (12GB + 256GB) – ₹39,999 ($535)


Related: OPPO A96 5G launched with Snapdragon 695 SoC for $315