Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Google rolls out Material You inspired tweaks to the Phone app

Before the official release of Android 12, Google started updating its apps with the Material You design. The list also includes the Phone app, which now, is again getting some tweaks with the existing designs. The dialer picked up the dynamic themes last year and is now ready for a redesign.

Google Phone app

Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus Phone App Latest Version [Old Versions Archive]

The all-new UI make-over is already having a server-side rollout for the Pixel smartphones. In addition, it is currently available only for beta testers as Google Phone v78. Therefore, not every beta user will get this revised look. If you're so lucky enough, let us know in the comment section below.

Talking about tweaks, the beta update arrives with redesigned buttons and new animations on top of last year's additions. Isn't that great? making good the better! The Google Phone app will look exactly like the Android 12's PIN lock screen or the redesigned calculator app. Just like these screens, the new buttons of the phone app will be oval-shaped with boundaries, making them stand out.



Moreover, the height of the keypad is increased. That means it is more prominent and takes more space on the screen than the older layout. Although it is not a major change, but it does make the app more in line with the overall user interface.

As mentioned, not every beta user can taste the refreshed look as of now. To take your chances, you can sign up for the beta through Google Play.
Read more: Google rolls out April 2022 security update for supported Pixel smartphones

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Galaxy S20 FE 2022 launched in Korea: Specifications and Price details

Samsung has silently launched the Galaxy S20 FE 2022 in South Korea. The new version of the device offers similar features as the original Galaxy S20 FE. On the bright side, it comes with a lower price tag. Here is a detailed look at the new Samsung handset.

Galaxy S20 FE 2022

Make sure to visit: Specs Comparison: Xiaomi 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S21 FE

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 2022 specifications


As mentioned, the Galaxy S20 FE 2022 is identical to the Galaxy S20 FE 5G. It features a 6.5-inch full-HD+ Super AMOLED Infinity-O Display. The panel offers a screen resolution of 1,080 x 2,400 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 20:9 aspect ratio.

On the software front, the phone runs on Android 10 OS on day one. Under the helm, the Galaxy S20 FE 2022 powers the Snapdragon 865 SoC paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of onboard storage. To serve the security, there's an in-display fingerprint sensor.

In the camera department, the smartphone carries a 12 MP primary sensor alongside a 12 MP ultra-wide shooter and an 8 MP telephoto lens. On the other side, it houses a 32 MP lens for selfies and video calls. The other specifications include a 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, NFC, microSD card slot, and a USB Type-C port.

Availability and Price


Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 2022 arrives in Cloud White, Cloud Lavender, and Cloud Navy color options. You can purchase the device via carriers KT and LG U+ for ₩699,600 (~ ₹43,600) for its sole 6GB + 128GB storage variant.
Read more: Galaxy Buds 2 gets 360-degree audio feature and more via a new update

Google rolls out April 2022 security update for supported Pixel smartphones

Google is always on time when it comes to security updates. In the latest news, the company has released the April 2022 security update for the supported Pixels smartphones. Scroll to the end of the article to know what the build packs.

Must see: Get official Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro wallpapers for free!

The April 2022 update for the eligible Pixel smartphones does not bring along any visible or significant changes. Although it does address a bunch of bugs and security issues present in the current version.

Talking about the compatible phones, it includes Pixel 3a (XL) and onwards devices, including the Pixel 6 series. To install the fresh update, look out for the following firmware versions for your respective smartphone.
Software versions


  • Pixel 3a (XL): SP2A.220405.003

  • Pixel 4 (XL): SP2A.220405.003

  • Pixel 4a: SP2A.220405.003

  • Pixel 4a (5G): SP2A.220405.003

  • Pixel 5: SP2A.220405.003

  • Pixel 5a (5G): SP2A.220405.003

  • Pixel 6: SP2A.220405.004

  • Pixel 6 Pro: SP2A.220405.004




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



Changelog


Battery & Power (Pixel 3a and newer)

  • Additional improvements for wireless charging performance with certain accessories.


Camera (Pixel 3a and newer)

  • Fix for issue causing front-facing camera preview in certain apps to appear zoomed in.

  • Fix for issue occasionally causing the green screen to appear in camera preview.


User Interface (Pixel 6, 6 Pro)

  • Fix for crashes in System UI while using apps in Picture-in-Picture (PIP) mode in certain conditions.

  • Fix for issue causing an error message to display when setting up certain live wallpapers.

  • Fix for issue causing notification shade and Quick Settings to appear invisible after changing wallpaper in certain conditions.

  • Fix for issue occasionally causing the animation to display incorrectly when canceling a search in the app drawer.

  • Fix for issue occasionally preventing navigation in overview screen while TalkBack is active.

  • Fix for issue occasionally preventing recents button to show the overview while using 3-button navigation with third-party launchers.


The OTS update started rolling out today and will automatically hit your device in the upcoming weeks.


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

OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G specifications leaked, tipped to power Snapdragon 695 SoC

OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is getting ready to debut in India. Yesterday, the device was spotted on Bluetooth SIG, hinting at an imminent launch. The smartphone is expected to unveil by the end of April or early May. In the meantime, a leak has revealed the design and key specs of the upcoming budget phone.

OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G

Must see: Download OnePlus Notes App Latest Version

As per the leaks, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G will feature a 6.58-inch Full HD+ IPS LCD screen with a hole-punch cutout at the top left corner. The device will have a thick chin bezel, while the other bezels around the display will be fairly thin.

For optics, the Nord CE 2 Lite is likely to hold a triple-camera setup alongside an LED flash. The capacity of the lenses could stand at 64MP primary, 2 MP monochrome, and 2 MP macro sensor. For selfies and video chats, the phone is suggested to house a 16 MP front-facing camera.

Underneath, the upcoming OnePlus Nord device is tipped to power a Snapdragon 695 SoC paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. On the software front, it can offer Android 11 out of the box along with Oxygen OS 11 on top.

A 5,000 mAh battery will probably back up the device with 33W fast charging support. Also, the Nord CE 2 will also have a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. Lastly, the phone is expected to cost under ₹25,000 in India.

Realme Pad Mini lunched with Unisoc T616 SoC, 6,400 mAh battery, and more

Realme has introduced its latest tablet in the Philippines, while the company can soon unveil the device in more regions as well. The Realme Pad Mini is a mid-range offering that features a premium slim design. Here is a closer look at the latest tablet.

Realme Pad Mini

Must see: Specs Comparison – Xiaomi Mi Pad 5 Pro vs Apple iPad Mini 6

Realme Pad Mini holds an aluminum body that features an 8.7-inch LCD screen. The panel offers a screen resolution of 1,340 x 800 pixels and an 84.59% screen-to-body ratio. It measures 211.8 x 124.5 x 7.6 mm in dimensions and weighs 372 grams. In addition, the screen has a Sunlight Mode that offers maximum brightness when used outdoors.

Under the helm, an octa-core Unisoc T616 SoC integrated with Mali-G57 MP1 GPU powers the Realme Pad Mini. The tablet is available in up to 4GB RAM and 64GB of storage configuration that can be extended up to 1TB via a microSD card. On the software front, the pad comes pre-installed with Android 11 along with Realme UI for Pad skin on top.

Realme Pad Mini

For optics, the Realme Pad Mini carries a single 8 MP rear camera. The selfies and video chats are all on a 5 MP front-facing sensor. The device ships with a 6,400 mAh battery that supports 18W quick charging and reverse charging. Further, the connectivity options include GSM, Bluetooth v5, and WLAN.

Availability and Price


The Realme Pad Mini is up for pre-order in the Philippines via Lazada in Blue and Grey color options. The device costs ₱9,990 (~₹14,700) for the base 3GB + 32GB storage variant. The other 4GB + 64GB variant is priced at ₱11,990 (~₹17,700).
Read more: Realme X7 Pro 5G gets stable Android 12 update based on Realme UI 3.0

Galaxy Buds 2 gets 360-degree audio feature and more via a new update

The Galaxy Buds 2 are the latest and the best earbuds by Samsung so far. And the company is in no way jeopardizing it. On that note, Samsung is pushing an update to the Galaxy Buds 2 that brings a couple of new features and stability improvements to enhance the user experience.

Galaxy Buds 2

Make sure to visit: [Download] Samsung Good Lock Pentastic update bears Air command customization

Samsung continues to improve the usability of Galaxy Buds 2 by adding a much-needed feature— 360-degree audio. Accompanying this are more modifications that are a part of firmware version R177XXU0AVC8 which weighs around 3MB to download.

Starting with the 360-degree audio, as the name suggests, the feature delivers a “theater-like” sound experience. That means the user will be able to notice the direction where the sound is coming from. To recall, this feature is already available for the Galaxy Buds Pro users.

In addition to this, the software also improves call quality. Undoubtedly, the Galaxy Buds 2 already provides a suitable call quality, it's still pleasing to see that the essential functions are getting polished. Moreover, Bluetooth connectivity and stability are improved to provide a seamless user experience.

If you are a Galaxy Buds 2 owner, the update will automatically pop up on your connected device. Alternatively, you can manually check for the firmware via the Wearable app on your smartphone. Prior to flashing the update, make sure to connect both of the buds to your smartphone.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy F13 appears on Geekbench with Exynos 850 SoC and more!

Xiaomi releases Android 11 based MIUI 13 update for Mi Note 10 in China

Xiaomi introduced its next-gen customized skin MIUI 13 at the near end of the year 2021. Since then, the company has updated multiple Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco smartphones. Moving forth with the deployment, it’s time for the Chinese models of Xiaomi Mi Note 10 to adopt the new features.

Xiaomi Mi Note 10

Also visit: Download MIUI Global Cleaner App Latest Version

The new features are packed for the Xiaomi Mi Note 10 with the firmware version V13.0.1.0.RFDCNXM weighs around 3.0 GB to download. The software is based on Android 11 and is currently exclusive for the pilot testers The package adds fresh features and new customized shortcut options, offering a seamless experience. For precise details, check out the official changelog below:

Changelog


MIUI 13: Where all things connect

Highlights

  • New: Privacy camera for face recognition and protective watermarks for images

  • New: Introducing comprehensive anti-fraud protection mechanisms

  • New: All-new Mi Sans system font with better readability

  • New: “Crystallization” super wallpapers

  • New: A new widget ecosystem with app support and personalization options

  • New: New features for performing tasks seamlessly on multiple connected devices

  • Optimization: Improved overall stability


Widgets

  • New: A new widget ecosystem offers lots of items that can make your Home screen more informative

  • New: New gorgeous widgets for system and third-party apps

  • New: Lots of customizable widgets, including different clocks, signatures, and sticker

  • More features and improvements

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

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

  • Optimization: Privacy protection, secure web browsing, and better feed

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


System

  • Stable MIUI based on Android 11


The OTA update will reach out to the users in batches, taking a while to be widely available. Alternatively, you may visit Settings > Software update to manually track the build.

Related: Xiaomi Mi Note 10T/ Pro gets Android 12 based MIUI 13 update in Europe

Monday, April 4, 2022

[Update: Fixes and Improvements] Realme C31 Updates Tracker

In March 2021, Realme officially launched the Realme C31 smartphone. The device features a 6.5-inch HD+ LCD screen with Android 11 out of the box along with Realme UI R Edition. An octa-core processor-based UniSoC T612 SoC runs the device paired with up to 64GB storage and 4GB RAM. In the camera department, there’s a 13MP triple rear unit and a 5MP single front-facing lens.

Realme C31
Must see: Download Realme Music Party App Latest Version [Old Versions Archived]

Note: Please keep in mind that this is an update tracker article, and it will be updated frequently with Realme C31 smartphone updates.

Realme C31 Updates Tracker


You can find the latest updates at the top, while the previous builds are followed below.

  • [April 4, 2022]: The Realme C31 is receiving its first software update on the firmware version RMX3501_11_A.19 which weighs around 300MB to download. The build improves the color performance of plant scenes and improves system stability. Also, it addresses a few problems, including, the probabilistic reddish issue when taking pictures in warm light scenes.




Changelog

  • Camera

    • Improved color performance of plant scenes.

    • Fixed the probabilistic reddish issue when taking pictures in warm light scenes.



  • System

    • Fixed some known issues and improved system stability.





The updates are rolling out in batches and it may take a while to reach all units. Meanwhile, you can head over to Settings > Software updates > Check for updates to track the build manually.
Related: [Update: Fixes and Optimizations] Realme GT Neo 3 Updates Tracker

OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite arrives at Bluetooth SIG certification ahead of launch

OnePlus is gearing up to unveil the Nord CE 2 Lite smartphone in India. The device has bagged multiple certifications, the latest being the Bluetooth SIG. Earlier, it was spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Geekbench, Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Camerafv5, UL (Demko), and the TUV Rheinland. All these listings suggest that the device will launch soon in other markets as well. Also, they give us a hint of what the handset has stored for us.

[caption id="attachment_124500" align="aligncenter" width="696"]OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite Representative Image.[/caption]

Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus File Manager Latest Version [Old Versions Archive]

The latest Bluetooth SIG listing reveals the model number GN2200 which is associated with the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite. The phone will arrive with Bluetooth v5.1 connectivity. Besides the Bluetooth version, the portal does not reveal any other information.

Fortunately, we have some other specifications in our hands as well, thanks to the Geekbench listing. The OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite is likely to power a Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ or the Snapdragon 695 SoC under the hood paired with 6GB of RAM. Although we do expect the company to launch the device in other storage variants as well.

In addition to this, the previous TDRA, BIS, FCC, Camerafv5, UL (Demko), and TUV Rheinland certifications also disclose some information. The Nord CE 2 Lite will ship with a 4,500 mAh battery that supports 33W SuperVOOC charging.

Moreover, the rear camera of the upcoming phone is tipped to carry a 64 MP primary sensor. All these aforementioned features along with the 5G and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity can make the device cost up to ₹20,000 in India.
Read more: OnePlus 10 Pro gets its first software update in India with OxygenOS 12 A.11