Galaxy S9 & Galaxy S9+ update journey ended, Galaxy A50 & Galaxy S10 series to get quarterly updates

Samsung is one of the best smartphone manufacturers around the globe. Moreover, the Korean giant is invincible in terms of sending constant security updates to its flagships. On that note, Samsung security update support for the 2018 launched Galaxy S9 & Galaxy S9+ winds down. Whereas, the successor Galaxy S10 series and Galaxy A50 will now get quarterly updates.

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The update train for Samsung Galaxy S9 & Galaxy S9+ has reached its last station at March 2022 security patch. The company has quietly removed the lineup from its mobile security page, indicating the end of software update support for the two mobile phones.

As mentioned earlier, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ were unveiled in 2018 with Android 8.0 Oreo out of the box. As promised by Samsung, the devices received two major Android OS updates with Android 9 and Android 10 along with One UI 2.5. After these major upgrades, the company announced last year that the duo will get quarterly security updates. Maybe this was a hint by the brand to prepare for the end of updates to the Galaxy 9 series.

On the other hand, 2019 launched Galaxy S10 series and Galaxy A50 will no longer get monthly security patches. In fact, they are now shifted to get the updates quarterly. The Galaxy S10 series is currently running on the Android 12 based One UI 4.1, while the Galaxy A50 is still on Android 11 OS. Both lineups could be the next to end their update journey by the next year.

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[Update: March 2022 Security Patch] OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G Updates Tracker

The Nord CE 2 5G was launched by OnePlus in February 2022. The smartphone features a 6.43-inch AMOLED display paired with up to 128GB storage and 8GB RAM. Android 11 fuels the device out of the box along with Dimensity 900 5G chipset. The device provides a triple 64 MP camera on the rear side and a single 16MP snapper at the front.

Must see: Download OnePlus Camera App Latest version

Note: This is an update tracker and will be updated frequently in Descending Order (Date) with the updates of the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G.

OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G Updates Tracker

• [April 6, 2022]: OnePlus is releasing the OxygenOS A.11 to the Nord CE 2 5G. The update does not bring any significant changes, but it increases privacy by integrating the March 2022 security patch. In addition, it improves system stability and optimizes the camera experience.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Improved system stability
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to 2022.3
  
  
  
  


• Camera
  
  
  
  • Optimized camera experience
  
  
  
  

The OTA update is rolling out in batches. So, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G owners can expect the update notification to reach them anytime soon. But if you’re feeling particularly impatient, you can attempt triggering the download manually. To do this, head to Settings > Software update.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Read more: OnePlus 10 Pro goes official in India with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC for ₹66,999

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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.

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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.



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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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