Google Pixel 6 to get 'Direct USB Access' in the upcoming June update

After the March update, the next major upgrade for the Pixel smartphones will be the June Pixel drop. Earlier this month, Google introduced a new pattern with a beta program for the same. As per the code from the beta build, the Pixel 6 series seems to get some useful changes, including Direct USB Access.

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The “Direct USB Access” will allow permitting a better DAC (digital-to-analog converter) support. The feature in Android 12 will serve as a path that allows the apps to access an external DAC directly. Therefore, improving support within apps and more USB DACs as well.

In simpler words, the functionality will allow more external USB DACs and headphone jacks to work and resolve issues related to audio apps like Tidal, Neutron, and USB Audio Player Pro.

https://twitter.com/mile_freak07/status/1507426867862769668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1507426867862769668%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.xda-developers.com%2Fpixel-6-direct-usb-access-android-12l%2F

As per the reports, Google will deliver the “Direct USB Access” through the June 2022 Feature Drop update. In addition, it is only confirmed to work for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. At the time of writing, we are not sure if older Pixels smartphones will get this feature with the update.

Moreover, there are chances that Google could postpone the expected June 2022 update for a later release. Either way, it will resolve the DAC issues that is present on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro since their launch.

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T-Mobile OnePlus 9 & 9 Pro get Android 12 update with OxygenOS 12

Back in December 2021, the unlocked OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro received the official Android 12 update with OxygenOS 12. After a gap of three months, the latest operating system is rolling out to the T-Mobile variants of the OnePlus 9 series in the US.

Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus Wallpapers App Latest Version [Old Versions Archived]

The Android 12 x OxygenOS 12 update for the OnePlus 9 is bundled with the firmware version LE2117_11.C.16, while the Pro variant is upgrading with build number LE2127_11.C.16.

Talking about changes, needless to say, the package will carry all the user-friendly and safety features of Android 12. Further, it will be tossed with the OxygenOS 12 goodies. On the top, the build enhances the security by integrating the February 2022 security patch. In addition, it also resolves some general bugs and brings improvements as per the changelog.

Changelog

• Updated to Android 12 OS


• Android security patch upgraded to February 2022


• General improvements and fixes

However, T-Mobile hasn’t updated its Android update tracker page yet. Although it seems to be a wider rollout as per the user's feedback. The software will automatically reach out to your device in case it hasn't already. Alternatively, you can navigate to Settings > System Updates to manually track the update status.

Read more: OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro upgrades to ColorOS 12.1 with new features

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WhatsApp adds multiple features to make Voice Messages convenient

We can’t deny the fact that the most convenient way to communicate is talking. In the digital era, it’s voice notes! Keeping this in mind, WhatsApp has introduced multiple features to voice messages. This includes the ability to pause and resume recording, draft preview, out-of-chat playback, resume playback, and waveform visualization. Here is a closer look at the modifications in detail.

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Starting with the ability to pause and resume recording, the feature will let you pause the recording just in case you get caught up otherwise. Also, you can resume the note from where you left off with the Remember Playback feature. In addition, thanks to the Draft preview feature that allows you to preview voice notes before sending them. Once you’re done recording, the app will show you a play button, hitting which you can listen to the voice memo.



Moreover, there's an Out of Chat Playback feature through which you can listen to the voice message outside of the chat. This could come in handy as you can do other tasks whilst listening to the voice recording. Besides, with the new update, you will get a Waveform Visualization representation to determine the sound of the voice message. Lastly, there's fast playback support for the forwarded messages that will let you play voice messages at 1.5x or 2x speeds.

WhatsApp will roll out all the above-mentioned features to all users in the coming weeks. Regardless, make sure that your device is running the latest version of WhatsApp.

Related: WhatsApp Rolls Out Message Reactions feature to Android beta users

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Xiaomi Mi Note 10 Lite upgrades to Android 12 OS with MIUI 13

Xiaomi is kicking off its Android 12 based MIUI 13 skin iteration for eligible devices since January. The software has been deployed to most of the eligible premium and mid-range offerings. The latest smartphone to get the refreshed version of mobile software is Xiaomi Mi Note 10 Lite.

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The latest software is rolling out to the Mi 10 Lite users in Europe, while other markets are expected to get the package in the next few weeks. Also, it is currently limited to the Mi Pilot testers via firmware version V13.0.1.0.SFNEUXM weighs 2.9 GB to download.

Concerning changes, the package carries all new features of Android 12 tossed with the modifications of MIUI 13. The changelog further mentions that the apps can now open as floating windows directly from the sidebar. In addition, it enhances privacy by integrating the February 2022 security patch. Refer to the changelog below for precise details.

Changelog

[System]

• Stable MIUI based on Android 12


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

[More features and improvements]

• New: Apps can be opened as floating windows directly from the sidebar


• Optimization: Enhanced accessibility support for Phone, Clock, and Weather


• Optimization: Mind map nodes are more convenient and intuitive now

As mentioned, the software is currently a Mi Pilot Tester-exclusive. Accordingly, only the users who are a part of the testing program will get the update. Regardless, it will be accessible to the public users after making sure that there are no critical bugs onboard.

Read more: Xiaomi 12 Lite arrives on Geekbench with Snapdragon 778G 5G SoC

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Realme 8i gets Realme UI 3.0 early access beta program based on Android 12

Realme is continually expanding the Android 12 based Realme UI 3.0 Early Beta access to more of its smartphones. This time, the package is rolling out for the Realme 8i users in India.

Must see: Realme Service Centers in Chennai

The registration channel is open from today, March 30, 2022. As this is an early access beta program, it will be available to a limited number of users. Also, the applications will be accepted in batches for the users who registered early. Here is what you have to do:

1. Head to phone Settings > Software update


2. Look for the gear icon in the upper right corner of the screen


3. Click upgrade and early adopters and tap on Trial Version


4. Scroll down and click on Apply now


5. Submit your details and finish the quiz

Before applying, make sure your Realme 8i is at least 60%+ charged and is running on the required RMX3151_11.A.41 version. In addition, the company has also issued some key points that are to be taken care of.

• Please make sure your phone is not rooted.


• To prevent data loss, please backup your personal data before proceeding.


• Some third-party application versions might not be compatible with Android 12 yet, after updating these applications might not be available or crash on your device. Therefore, it is recommended to update all your applications to the latest version available on the Play Store before your update.


• The Early Access versions may have an unpredictable impact on your phone and affect daily use.


• Please ensure that the available phone storage is more than 10 GB. Otherwise, there will be a risk of update failure.


• Due to unpredictable factors such as network communication and strategy adjustment, it is not possible to guarantee that every applicant will receive the update. In case the update is not received, we suggest you patiently wait for the official release.

Related: Realme GT Neo2 receives stable Android 12 update with Realme UI 3.0

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Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro 2 revealed in render leaks

Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro 2 is running around the rumor mill for the past few weeks. In the latest news, the smartphone has managed to leak online. The render exposes a design that is identical to the Galaxy XCover Pro. Here is a complete look at the upcoming rugged device.

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For the unaware, the Xcover flagship by Samsung is a line of rugged smartphones. As per the images leaked, the XCover Pro 2 will offer a waterdrop notch display with bezels all around. The rear panel will house a dual-rear camera island alongside an LED flash. Also, it suggests that the power button and volume rockers will sit on the right edge. A fingerprint scanner to serve security might be embedded inside the power button.

At the bottom, we get a USB Type-C charging port, a speaker grille, and a primary microphone. While the top edge will carry a 3.5mm audio port, secondary microphone, and another button. Here are the device's pictures.

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Coming forth to specifications, the Galaxy XCover Pro 2 is tipped to feature a 6.56-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution. It is said to measure 169.5 × 81.1 × 10.1mm in dimensions.

To recall, the rugged device also made an appearance on the Geekbench database a couple of weeks ago. As per the portal, the device will come pre-installed with Android 12 OS paired with 6GB RAM.

Furthermore, it mentions that the XCover Pro 2 will fuel a Snapdragon 778G processor integrated with an Adreno 642L GPU. However, the leaks proclaim that it will power Exynos 1280 instead.

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Oppo Reno 7 Pro 5G gets Android 12 based ColorOS 12 beta application

It's been almost half a year since Oppo unveiled the ColorOS 12. The first smartphone to get the package was the Find X3 lineup, followed by multiple smartphones. In the latest news, the company has invited applicants for the Android 12 based ColorOS 12 beta program for the Oppo Reno 7 Pro 5G.

Make sure to visit: Download Oppo/ Realme Quick Glance Latest Version [Old Versions Archive]

The Android 12 based ColorOS 12 beta program for the Oppo Reno 7 Pro 5G smartphone is currently live in India, while other countries will follow soon. If you are an interested user in the country, make sure that your device runs on version C.12/C.13. Thereafter, you can follow the below steps:

1. Visit the Software update section under the Setting app


2. Click on the Gear icon at the top right corner


3. Apply for the beta version


4. Update Beta Version


5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

The registrations are open from March 29, 2022, to March 31, 2022. Also, keep in note that the first update batch will only include the first 5,000 applicants. Therefore, the user needs to make sure to register as soon as possible. In case the application quota is already full, please wait for the second batch registration to be open.

Oppo will review your application and the selected candidates will receive the beta version within 3 workdays afterward. Keep in mind that the beta build could carry a lot of bugs and glitches like overheating and lagging. Lastly, we recommend you take a backup of your important files to avoid data loss.

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Vivo X Note design teased officially, launch scheduled for April 11

In a recently organized event, Vivo confirmed the launch of its new premium range of devices. This includes Vivo X Note, Vivo X Fold foldable smartphone, and Vivo Pad tablet. In addition, the company has started to drop teasers of its upcoming devices, starting with the Vivo X Note design.

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The Vivo X Note is scheduled to launch on April 11 in China alongside the X Fold and Vivo Pad. As per the images teased, the X Note is built around a curved display featuring a hole-punch cutout at the top center of the screen. The screen size will be 7-inches tall with a 2K resolution.

The rear panel of the Vivo X Note is blue-colored, while the upper portion has a black-colored rectangular module. This unit houses a quad-camera setup, including a periscope lens. Also, there's an alert slider placed at the left edge of the device. The volume and power buttons sit on the right edge.

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Unfortunately, the other details and specifications about the Vivo X Note are yet to be official. Although we do have some render leaks with us. The smartphone is tipped to fuel Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC under the hood. For software, it could boost Android 12 OS paired with a layer of Origin OS Ocean on top. Moreover, the handset can ship with a 5,000 mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging and 50W wireless charging.

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Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G with Dimensity 920 SoC announced globally for $369

Xiaomi has unveiled a new smartphone from the Redmi Note 11 series in the global market, the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G. However, it is different from the Indian variant. In fact, it is identical to the Xiaomi 11i HyperCharge. Here's a closer look at the global model of Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G.

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Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G Specifications

Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G is built around a 6.67-inch AMOLED display featuring a punch-hole cutout at the top center. The panel offers a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, 1200 nits of peak brightness, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a layer of Corning Gorilla Glass. Also, it is IP53 rated for splash resistance.

Underneath, the smartphone fuels the MediaTek Dimensity 920 processor paired with up to 8 GB RAM. In addition, it comes pre-installed with Android 11 tossed with MIUI 12.5 on top. A 4,500 mAh battery backs up the system with 120W fast charging support.



For optics, the Note 11 Pro+ 5G holds a 108 MP triple camera module. The main lens is accompanied by an 8 MP ultrawide shooter and a 2 MP tele-macro unit. On the other side, the selfies and video chats are all upon a 16 MP snapper.

Availability and Price

The Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G is available in three storage options globally. The base model has 128GB of internal storage and 6GB of RAM that cost $369 (~ ₹27,900). Whereas the mid variant (128 GB + 8 GB RAM) is priced at $399 (~ ₹32,200) and the higher configuration model (256 GB + 8 GB RAM) is worth $449 (~ ₹33,400).

Related: Redmi 10A with MediaTek Helio G25 SoC announced in China for ¥649

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