Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Xiaomi 12S series goes official in China: Specifications and Price

The Xiaomi 12S series was running around the rumor mills for months. Finally, the lineup is official in China, including three models: Xiaomi 12S, Xiaomi 12S Pro, and Xiaomi 12S Ultra. As the name suggests, Xiaomi 12S is the vanilla model, while the Xiaomi 12S Pro is the median variant. The Xiaomi 12S Ultra sits over both of them. Let's take a closer look at the new premium smartphones.

Xiaomi 12S Series

Must see: Download Android Studio Chipmunk 2021.2.1



Xiaomi 12S


The vanilla Xioami 12S features a 6.28-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a punch-hole cutout at the top center. The panel offers a 120Hz refresh rate, an HDR10+ resolution, a peak brightness of 1100 nits, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.

Under the hood, the phone powers a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. On the software front, it boosts Android 12 out of the box along with a layer of MIUI 13 on top. In addition, a 4500 mAh battery keeps the system working with 67W fast charging support, 50W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wired charging.

Xiaomi 12S

For optics, the Xiaomi 12S carries a triple rear camera module led by a 50MP primary snapper. Accompanying this is a 13MP ultrawide unit and a 5MP tele-macro sensor. On the other side, the handset houses a 32MP selfie shooter.

Xiaomi 12S Pro


The Pro model is built around a 6.73-inch QHD+, E5 AMOLED display with a layer of Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. The panel supports a 10-bit display that offers 1500 nits of peak brightness.

In terms of camera, the Xiaomi 12S Pro has a Leica-branded triple camera module on the back. The capacity of the setup is a 50MP main camera, a 50MP ultrawide lens, and a 50MP telephoto snapper with 2x zoom.

Xiaomi 12S Pro

Also, the phone ships with a 4600 mAh battery that supports 120W fast charging and 50W wireless charging. The rest of the specifications are similar to the vanilla Xiaomi 12S.

However, interestingly, there's one more variant of the Xiaomi 12S Pro that equips Dimensity 9000+ SoC underneath. The only difference is the chipset and that it packs a 5160 mAh battery with 67W fast charging support.

Xiaomi 12S Ultra


Xiaomi 12S Ultra sports a 6.73-inch Samsung E5 AMOLED 12-bit curved display with a 2K resolution. The screen offers an LTPO 2.0 panel with up to 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, a peak brightness of up to 1,500 nits, and native 10-bit color depth.

Under the helm, it runs the same Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC. Although it arrives with an additional 512GB storage variant. Inside, there's a 4860 mAh battery that supports 67W fast charging, 50W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging. Moreover, the smartphone comes with Surge P1 and G1 chipsets to ensure better battery management and improve efficiency.

Xiaomi 12S Ultra

Furthermore, the Xiaomi 12S Ultra claims to have one of the most advanced camera setups in the smartphone market. It also arrives with a Leica-tuned triple-camera setup consisting of a 50.3MP primary sensor, a 48MP ultrawide unit, and a 48MP periscope snapper with up to 120x hybrid zoom. On top, there is also a 23K gold rim on the camera module.
Read more: Xiaomi Mi 10T and 10T Pro receives stable Android 12 update

Price and Availability


The Xiaomi 12S and 12S Pro are available in Black, Purple, Green, and White color options. while the Ultra model is available in Black and Green colorways. Depending upon the storage variant you choose, here's how much the respective smartphone will cost:




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Monday, July 4, 2022

Realme GT 2 Pro gets a new update with June 2022 Security Patch

The Realme GT 2 Pro is the first flagship by the company in the year 2022. Also, it will be the first device by the company to get the Android 13 OS. In the meantime, the smartphone is receiving software updates on the current version to keep the user experience stable and seamless.

Realme GT 2 Pro

Make sure to visit: Download Realme Always-On Display (AOD) Latest Version [Old Versions Archived]

The latest software update for the Realme GT 2 Pro is bundled with the firmware version RMX3301_11_A.17. The package is currently rolling out in India, and it will soon make its way to more markets in the coming days.

Regarding changes, the build brings multiple fixes across the system, including unexpected white bar, dynamic wallpaper not working, inability to change the refresh rate, power draining, and more. Also, there’s an improvement in animations and playback smoothness to elevate the user experience. In addition, the build packs the June 2022 security Patch. Check out the official changelog below.

Changelog



  • Security

    • Integrates the June 2022 Android security patch.



  • System

    • Improves animation smoothness when you swipe among apps on the recent tasks page.

    • Fixes an issue where an unexpected white bar might appear at the bottom in some third-party apps.

    • Fixes an issue where dynamic wallpaper not working.

    • Fixes an issue where you might be unable to enter the settings page for Notifications & status bar.

    • Fixes an issue where the refresh rate might not change after you turn on GT mode.



  • Camera

    • Improves the playback smoothness for slow-motion videos.

    • Fixes an issue where some pixels of your screen might turn black when you take photos with the wide-angle camera in some scenarios.

    • Fixes a display issue with photos taken in dark environments in Pro mode.



  • Power

    • Fixes a power-draining issue that would occur when BGMI is running in the background.




Read more: Realme 9i joins Android 12-based Realme UI 3.0 Open Beta group

The OTA update is rolling out in batches and will reach out automatically to all users. To avoid the wait, you can also give it a manual check by heading over to Settings > System update.

Moto G42 with Snapdragon 680 SoC launched in India for ₹13,999

The Lenovo-owned company has introduced another G-series smartphone in India: Moto G42. To recall, the entry-level smartphone was launched in the international market last month. It is a good competitor for the budget entertainment offerings. Let's take a closer look at the Moto G42's specifications, price, features, and other details.

Moto G42

Make sure to visit: Download GCam 8.5 APK [Link Included]

The Moto G42 features a 6.4-inch Full HD+ AMOLED Screen with a punch-hole cutout at the top center. The panel offers a 60Hz refresh rate, 700 nits brightness, DCI-P3 color space, and SGS Blue Eye protection. Also, it is IP52 rated for splash resistance.

Under the hood, an octa-core processor based on Snapdragon 680 SoC powers the device. The phone arrives in 4GB RAM and 64GB of internal storage. In addition, the memory can be expanded via a dedicated microSD card slot. On the software front, it boosts Android 12 out of the box.

For optics, the Moto G42 houses a 16MP sensor at the front for selfies and video chats. At the back, there's a triple rear camera setup led by a 50MP primary lens. Accompanying this is an 8MP ultra-wide-angle unit which also serves as a depth lens and a 2MP depth macro snapper.

In addition to this, the handset ships with a 5,000 mAh battery that supports 20W Turbo charging. The other notable features include a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, Type-C port, 3.5mm headphone jack, NFC, stereo speaker setup with support for Dolby Atmos, and Qualcomm sound certification.
Read more: Motorola Edge 30 Ultra appears on WiFi Alliance with Android 12

Price and Availability


The Moto G42 costs ₹13,999 for its sole 4GB/ 64GB storage configuration only. The phone will go on sale from July 11 via Flipkart starting in Atlantic Green and Metallic Rose color options. As for launch offers, SBI credit card users can get a ₹1,000 instant discount.

List of Oppo smartphones to get stable ColorOS 12 update in July

Last year, Oppo announced its own customized skin ColorOS 12 based on Android 12. So far, a handful of devices are now running the “Just Sync” concept. Every month the Chinese giant prepares a timeline for the rollout of ColorOS 12 for its flagship. Likewise, the company has officially announced a list of smartphones that will get the ColorOS 12 update in July 2022. Check out if your Oppo device is lucky enough to get the new software this month.


ColorOS 12



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

Undoubtedly, Oppo has improved its software update game over the years. A handful of its handsets are running the stable Android 12 OS, while some of them are under testing. For the next batch, the schedule details the eligible smartphones to receive the ColorOS 12 update in the respective countries. It includes multiple phones, including Oppo Find X5 Lite, Oppo F21 Pro, Oppo A55, and more.

Oppo stable ColorOS 12 July 2022 timeline


From 20 July 2022

  • Oppo Find X 5 Lite (France)


From 22 July 2022

  • Oppo F21 Pro 5G (India)

  • Oppo Reno7 Z 5G (Indonesia)

  • Oppo A96 5G (China)


From 23 July 2022

  • Oppo A55 (India)

  • Oppo A16 (India)


From 25 July 2022

  • Oppo A55s 5G (Japan)


Read more: OPPO pushes out ColorOS 12 update to OPPO Reno 10x zoom & Reno ACE

Important: Keep in mind that this timeline is subject to change depending on various factors.

Download Google Camera [Gcam] 8.4 for Poco F4 5G

Following the launch of the Google Pixel 6 series, the company introduced the Gcam 8.4. The build com arrives with new features, bug fixes, and on top, it brings support for several smartphones. Finally, the Poco F4 5G has now received the Google Camera Port (APK).

Gcam 8.4

Make sure to visit: How to change the Google Photos album cover?

Originally, the Poco F4 carries a triple-rear camera setup led by a 64MP primary sensor with OmniVision OV64B and OIS support. Accompanying this is an 8MP ultra-wide-angle unit and a 2MP macro snapper. On the front, the phone houses a single 20MP shooter for selfies.

To get the most out of your Poco f4, try out the GCam 8.4 and take your mobile photography to the next level. The Gcam version packs a bundle of features, including UI changes, new zoom buttons, lens blur, video stabilization modes, HDR+ enhanced mode, RAW support, night sight in portrait and camera modes, slo-mo video, beauty Mode, and more. The best of all features is Magic Eraser which removes unwanted objects and people from pictures.
Related: Download GCam 8.5 APK [Link Included]

The Poco F4 5G has Camera2 API compatibility and mod port support so you can install the software. In fact, try both ports on your phone and see which one works best for you.

Nubia Red Magic 7S, 7S Pro visits TENAA, full specifications revealed

Nubia Red Magic 7S and 7S Pro are prepared to launch in China on July 11. Ahead of the official launch, the series has received approval from the TENAA authority. The listing reveals all the key details of the handsets, including display, camera, processor, and more. Here is everything we know about the upcoming gaming smartphones.

Nubia Red Magic 7S and 7S Pro

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The Nubia RedMagic 7S appeared with model number NX679S on TENAA. The portal divulges a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen with a Full HD+ resolution of 2400×1080 pixels. In addition, it will measure 170.57 × 78.33 × 9.5 mm in dimensions and weigh 215 grams. Underneath, the handset powers Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC. The chipset will be paired with 8GB/12GB/16GB/ 18GB RAM options and 128GB/256GB/512GB storage variants.

In terms of optics, the RedMagic 7S is likely to carry a triple rear camera led by a 64MP primary camera. At the front, an 8MP snapper could be housed on the front. In addition to this, a 4,500 mAh battery keeps the system working.

Talking about the Nubia RedMagic 7S Pro, the phone bears the model number NX709S. The smartphone will sport a similar display, processor, and camera as the vanilla model. Although, it will measure 166.27 × 77.1 × 9.98 mm and weigh 235 grams. Also, there will be an additional 1TB storage variant as well. Besides, the phone will pack a larger 5,000 mAh battery.

The other notable features of Nubia Red Magic 7S and 7S Pro includes an under-screen fingerprint scanner for security, fast charging support, 5G, 4G LTE, and 4K video.



Read more: Google’s Switch to Android app on iOS gets Android 12 support

Apart from the specs revealed by TENAA, both smartphones can come with a bunch of gaming-centric features. This may include a VC cooling system, RGB lights, dedicated gaming mode, faster touch response, and more.



Friday, July 1, 2022

Google updates Chrome Password Manager with new design and features

With the latest update, Google is making Chrome Password Manager more simple and easy to use. The Android and Chrome users are receiving the update with stronger built-in protections. Precisely, the update intends to work more cohesively and syncs more easily across apps and devices. Let's take a detailed look at the changes released for the password manager.

Chrome Password Manager

Make sure to visit: Download GCam 8.5 APK [Link Included]

As announced by the tech giant, the update brings a new design that is uniform across Chrome and Android settings. In addition, it is rolling out a single password settings page. This will allow the user to sync and save passwords between their Chrome web browser and Android device. It will help people to create the passwords and relieve them from memorizing the same.

That means the user can easily log in to any app or website on their other device without manually entering the password. The platform will remember passwords for similar sites or apps so you can access them with a single press or even create a shortcut on your Android device.





Moreover, there's a new “Touch-to-Login” on Android that will make the login process more quickly. The feature provides an overlay at the bottom of the screen that will allow the user to enter their credentials easily. In fact, you can even add your passwords directly to the app.
Read more: Google’s Switch to Android app on iOS gets Android 12 support

Besides, Google is extending its password warnings to all Chrome users on any platform, be it Android, Chrome OS, iOS, Windows, macOS, or Linux. It will let the users know if their passwords are weak, reused, or compromised. On top, Google’s Password Manager can create unique, strong passwords for you across platforms.




Realme 9i joins Android 12 based Realme UI 3.0 Open Beta group

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 9i users in India. The handset was launched in the country with Android 11 out of the box.

Realme 9i

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

Needless to say, the build will be available to a limited number of users as it is an early access beta program. Before applying, make sure your Realme 9i is at least 60%+ charged and is running on the required RMX3151_11_A.41 version.

As always, the company will accept the applications in batches for the users who registered early. To be an early applicant, follow the below steps soon:

  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


Moreover, remember to take a backup of your data before registering and keep at least 10GB of storage space free. Furthermore, Realme has issued some key points that are to be taken care of.

  • 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.

  • 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 9 5G gets Android 12-based Realme UI 3.0 Early Access Beta

Oneplus 7 Series picks up OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 update

Earlier this month, OnePlus announced that the Android 12-based ColorOS 12 beta program will be made available for its 2019 premium flagships. Adhering to its words, the OnePlus 7 series, including the T-mobile variants- Oneplus 7, 7 Pro, 7T, and 7T Pro are picking up the OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 update.

OnePlus 7 Pro and OnePlus 7 receiving OxygenOS 10.0.6 in Europe and 10.3.3 in India respectively

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The OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 claims to provide a whole new personalized and convenient user experience. This includes a modern user interface, simplified visuals, subtle display elements, and the new OS that optimizes the overall experience. You can start testing the package for your respective phone. Before applying, make sure to update your device to the required 11.0.7.1. or 11.0.8.1. version.

Key updates



  • System

    • Newly added Smart Battery Engine, a feature that prolongs your battery life based on smart algorithms and biomimetic self-restoration technology

    • Redesigns app icons using new materials to give more depth and a greater sense of space and texture to the icons

    • Revamps the page layout based on the principle of reducing visual noise and optimizes the presentation of text and color to make key information stand out

    • Optimized desktop icons with improved textures, by using a design inspired by brand-new materials and uniting lights and layers

    • Optimized spam block rules: Adds a rule for blocking MMS messages



  • Games

    • Newly added the HyperBoost end-to-end frame rate stabilizer

    • Newly added Voice effect preview to allow you to record your voice effect or check your voice effect in real time



  • Dark mode

    • Dark mode now supports three adjustable levels, bringing a more personalized and comfortable user experience



  • Shelf

    • New additional style options for Cards, making data contents more visual and easier to read

    • Newly added access to OnePlus Scout in Shelf, allowing you to search multiple contents on your phone, including Apps, Settings, Media Data, etc



  • Work Life Balance

    • Work Life Balance feature is now available to all users, allowing you to effortlessly switch between Work and Life mode via quick settings

    • WLB 2.0 now supports automatic Work/Life mode switching, based on specific locations, Wi-Fi network, and time, also bringing customized App notification profiles according to the personalization



  • Gallery

    • Gallery now allows you to switch between different layouts with a two-finger pinch gesture, intelligently recognizing the best-quality pictures, and cropping the thumbnail based on the content, making the gallery layout more pleasing



  • Canvas AOD

    • Canvas AOD brings you new diverse styles of lines and colors, for a more personalized lock screen experience with inspiring visuals

    • Newly added multiple brushes and strokes and support for color adjustment

    • Optimized software algorithm and improved face recognition to better identify the features and skin color of different figures



  • Accessibility

    • Optimized categorization of functions by grouping them into vision, hearing, interactive actions, and general

    • TalkBack supports more system apps including Photos, Phone, Mail, and Calendar




Though the update will not erase any data but OnePlus suggest the users keep their backup. Also, do not forget to maintain at least a 30% battery level and a 4GB of storage space free. For further guidelines, instructions, and download packages, visit the official OnePlus forum page.
Related: OnePlus Nord CE gets OxygenOS 12 Open Beta 1 based on Android 12