Tuesday, January 4, 2022

Official Android 12 update rolling out for Galaxy Note 20

Samsung is on a roll for weeks! The company has widely released the Android 12 update to a bunch of its flagships. Starting from the Galaxy S21 lineup, the operating system is now rolling out to the Galaxy Note 20 series.

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Series receiving its first update with August 2020 Security Patch

Make sure to visit: Guide to turn off Clipboard suggestions in GBoard

Presently, the package is rolling out for the Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra in the Netherlands and Belgium. Hopefully, it will extend to more regions over the next few days. The package is bundled with the firmware version N98**XXS3EULF.

Along with Android 12, it packs Samsung's latest skin iteration One UI 4.0. Moreover, it adds a mon old security maintenance, December 2021 patch. After flashing the update, you will get a lot of new features, a revamped UI design, and enhanced privacy and security. Also, the major attraction is the Material You-inspired Color Palette feature that extracts colors from the wallpaper and applies it all over the software.

The new software will hit your Galaxy Note 20 as an OTA. As of now, it is hitting only branded devices purchased directly from Vodafone or T-Mobile. If you are an eligible user, a pop-up notification will reach out to you automatically. Alternatively, you can head over to the Software update section under the Settings app. If the firmware is available for your device, tap on Download and install.
Related: Android 12 rolling out to Galaxy Note 10 & Original Galaxy Fold

Nokia G50 receives stable Android 12 update in Finland

Almost a month ago, Nokia G50 entered the Android 12 beta program. Finally, the device has been successfully tested and is receiving its first update. The latest stable operating system is rolling out for smartphone users in Finland. More regions will get a hit soon in the next few days.

Nokia G50 5G

Make sure to visit: Install Stable GCAM 8.3 APK on any Android smartphone

The Android 12 update for the Nokia G50 is bundled with the firmware version V2.160. Along with the Android 12 goodies, the package inculcates the November 2021 security patch.

Though there is no official announcement by HMD Global, some limited users in Finland have started getting a hit. Nokia G50 was launched last year in September with Android 11 pre-installed. The smartphone is eligible to receive five years of update support including two major Android updates.

Android 12 will bring the major overhaul ever to your smartphones, ranging from revamped UI to enhanced security tools. It will bring a rounded user interface, larger quick toggles, conversation widgets, accessibility improvements, much more. Know the best of Android 12 features by tapping on the button below.

Best Android 12 features


Moreover, despite the slow deployment of the OS, Nokia has already revealed a list of its flagships that are eligible to receive the Android 12 update by the end of this year. You can visit the link below and check if your Nokia device has made it to the list.
List of Nokia devices to get Android 12 update

Read more: Vivo X70 Pro+ gets stable FunTouch OS 12 update based on Android 12

MIUI 12.5 update makes way for Redmi 8A in Indonesia

Xiaomi has started to release the MIUI 12.5 update for the Redmi 8A in Indonesia. The Android 10 based package arrives on firmware version  V12.5.1.0.QCPIDXM weighing 2.0 GB in size. We expect more markets to get a hit soon.

Redmi 8A

Must see: Download new ChromeOS Wallpapers

Xiaomi has issued a quite lengthy changelog for this update which includes revamped UI. Also, it brings tons of optimizations and new additions that increase the efficiency of the device. Moreover, it offers a lighter, faster, and more durable MIUI experience. Here is the detailed changelog of the MIUI 12.5 update:

Changelog



  • System

    • New: Response to gestures is now instant.

    • New: With 20 times more rendering power, there are now few limits to what you can see on your screen.

    • New: With custom device model adjustments, any phone becomes faster after the upgrade.

    • Optimization: MIUI became lighter, faster, and more durable.



  • System Sounds

    • New: Nature mix is a new exciting way of creating your own notification sound system.

    • New: Hundreds of system sounds that represent animals from all around the world.



  • System Animations

    • New: A new animation framework renders movement more realistically.

    • New: New UI design is focused on visualization and making your interaction with the device more lifelike.



  • Notes

    • New: Press and hold a sketch to adjust the strokes automatically.

    • New: A gesture shortcut now allows you to create notes, tasks, and excerpts anywhere.

    • New: Excerpts save text, URLs, and images to Notes in a few simple taps.

    • New: Dynamic layouts bring the typography in Notes to a new level.

    • New: Compose mind maps with complex structures.

    • New: New tools for doodling and sketching.

    • All-new Notes.



  • Play Protection

    • New: A comprehensive overview of all sensitive permissions.

    • New: You’ll be notified whenever high-risk permissions are used and will be able to block the corresponding actions.

    • New: Now you can see what apps access your clipboard and control access.

    • New: Using approximate location adds up points to privacy protection.

    • New: You can now manage sensitive permissions and related app behavior independently.

    • New: The behavior of web pages is also tracked now, which helps you to block unwanted and malicious actions.

    • New: Now it’s up to you who and when can track your online behavior.

    • New: All apps now come with a security statement from GetApps.

    • New: Privacy risk scanner.

    • New: Control which apps access and delete items from your Gallery.

    • Optimization: An all-new privacy protection page.



  • IME

    • New: A more convenient way to move a cursor using the scrollbar.

    • New: Function buttons support switching between languages and keyboards.

    • New: You can press and hold the function buttons to access more features.

    • New: Custom themes for keyboards.



  • Themes

    • New: Font weight adjustment options for third-party fonts.

    • Optimization: Personalization features for system wallpapers, animations, and sounds.



  • Browser

    • New: Wallpaper customization in the lite mode.

    • Optimization: Redesigned Incognito mode.

    • Optimization: Pages load much faster now.




The OTA update is rolling out in batches. Alternatively, you can visit SettingsSoftware update to manually track the software.
Related: MIUI 12.5 update rolling out for Redmi 7A Globally

Samsung finally announced Galaxy S21 FE globally!

Samsung was supposed to launch the Galaxy S21 FE last year alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and the Galaxy Z Fold 3. However, the technical issues made us wait for a long time. The much-anticipated device is finally announced and will be available for purchase from January 11. Here is everything about the Galaxy S21 FE.

Galaxy S21 FE 5G

Must see: Download Galaxy S21 Wallpapers in High Quality

Galaxy S21 FE Specifications



Samsung Galaxy S21 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The panel offers a Full HD+ resolution and a punch-hole cutout at the center. The smartphone will arrive in three storage variants starting with 128GB and 6GB RAM. The other configurations are 128GB and 256GB paired with 8GB RAM.



Under the hood, the Galaxy S21 FE will draw power from Snapdragon 888 chipset. For the European markets, the smartphone will run on Exynos 2100 processor. On the software front, the phone will operate on Android 12 OS out of the box with One UI 4.0 skin on top.


For shooting purposes, the Galaxy S21 FE will house a triple camera setup consisting of a 12MP ultra-wide camera, a 12MP secondary lens, and an 8MP telephoto sensor. On the other side, the punch-hole cutout will indulge a 32MP selfie camera. Also, it packs a 4,500mAh battery that will support 25W of fast charging.


Price and Availability


Samsung Galaxy S21 FE will be available in four color variants: White, Lavender, Graphite, and Olive. As mentioned, it will start hitting selected markets from January 11. The pricing starts at 699$ (~Rs 52,000) and goes up to 749$ (~Rs 55,800).


Read more: Stable Android 12 update is live for Galaxy Z Fold 2

Monday, January 3, 2022

Vivo X70 Pro+ gets stable FunTouch OS 12 update based on Android 12

Vivo X70 Pro+ was launched in September 2021 with Android 11 preinstalled. After three months, the device is receiving its first and major software update. The build upgrades the OS version to Android 12 along with the FuntouchOS 12 customized skin on top.

Vivo X70 Pro+

Make sure to visit: Install Stable GCAM 8.3 APK on any Android smartphone

As of now, the Android 12 x FunTouchOS 12 update is rolling out in India bundled with the firmware version PDA2145F_EX_36.8.20 weighing 5.86GB to download. The package will expand to more regions in the next few days after ensuring the absence of any critical bugs.

The FunTouch OS 12 based on Android 12 carries a bundle of changes, new features, and improvements. This includes a new layout, fresh widgets, extended RAM, a Nano music player, a grid layout in the recent apps section, and more.

The Vivo X70 Pro+ is the current premium smartphone by the company. Though the device was scheduled to receive this update in November end. But looks lite it is quite later for some technical reasons. Now that the company has started to unfurl the new operating system, we can expect the predecessor and other series to get the update soon. You can read the list of eligible devices here.


The Indian users of Vivo X70 Pro+ will receive the Android 12 update as on OTA. Therefore, it may take a while to hit every unit in the country. To avoid the wait, you can navigate to Settings > Software Update > Check for new updates.
Read more: Vivo S12 series launched in China for $440

Realme UI 3.0 Beta 1 update is live for Realme GT Master Edition

Realme unveiled the Realme UI 3.0 customized skin based on Android 12 a few months back. The Realme GT 5G was the first smartphone to receive the beta program. Now, the first Realme UI 3.0 Beta is rolling out for the Realme GT Master Edition.

Realme GT Master Edition

Make sure to visit: All about Realme UI 3.0- Features, Supported Devices, and more

Though the entire GT series was scheduled to receive the Realme UI 3.0 Beta build in October, somehow the process got delayed. The Android 12 x Realme UI 3.0 Beta is now live for the Realme GT Master Edition users who had successfully registered for it by filling the application form.

The Realme UI 3.0 Beta 1 will bring a UI overhaul, new camera modes, enhanced security & Privacy. Needless to say, the system performance and device accessibility will be improved, rendering a whole new experience. Also, the company has issued a quite lengthy changelog that you can see below.


How to register for Realme UI 3.0 beta program?



  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 fill in the required information

  4. Scroll down and click on the trial version by confirming the agreement


If you are one of those users, the update will reach out to you via firmware version RMX3360_11_C.01 weighing 4.80GB to download. Before updating, make sure to keep your device's battery above 30% and keep the mobile storage free.
Read more: [Update: December 2021 Security Patch] Realme Narzo 50A & 50i Series Updates Tracker

Xiaomi 12X gets its first software update with fixes and optimizations

Xiaomi launched the Mi 12 series in China which includes three smartphones: the high-end Xiaomi 12 and 12 Pro along with an affordable Xiaomi 12X. Now, the company is releasing the first software update to the cheaper variant that intends to bring some fixes and optimizations for a smooth performance. 

Xiaomi 12X

Make sure to visit: Next-gen customized skin by Xiaomi: MIUI 13 Features

For now, the lineup is only available in China. The new software can be identified by the firmware version V13.0.10.0.RLDCNXM. Precisely, it fixes the unexpected redirections from the notification shade and the lag in the Mi Music app. Also, the overall stability of the Camera app and image quality is improved.

In addition, it resolves a couple of more glitches where the headphones weren't shown as disconnected even after disconnecting and the issue while switching between frames in anti-flicker mode.

Changelog



  • System

    • Optimization: Smart refresh rate



  • Control center

    • Fix: Unexpected redirections from the Notification shade controls occurred



  • Camera

    • Optimization: Image quality

    • Improved overall stability of the Camera app



  • Music

    • Fix: Issues that caused a lag in Mi Music



  • Other

    • Fix: Switching between frame rates in Anti-flicker mode to display issues

    • Fix: Headphones weren’t shown as disconnected after actual disconnection







The OTS update is live, rolling out in batches for the Xiaomi 12X users. Accordingly, it will reach out to you in a short while. Alternatively, you can also track the build manually. To do so, head over to Settings > About phone > System update. 
Read more: Xiaomi Mi 11 gets stable Android 12 based MIUI 13 update

Google halts the December update for Pixel 6 due to bugs

Recently, the One UI 4.0 update for the Galaxy Foldables and S21 series was paused due to compatibility issues with Google Play. The Pixel 6 series is now facing the same problem. Therefore, the December 2021 update for the devices is now taking a break.

Pixel 6

Must see: Download Android 12 wallpapers in full resolution

The recently released December 2021 update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro is paused. On the bright side, the build was made available only to a limited number of users. If you did not receive any such update, you're lucky not to face any call-dropping or call disconnecting bugs!



Here is what Google has to say about the complaints:
The Pixel team paused the December software update to Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro devices after some users reported calls were dropping or disconnecting. We have now identified a fix that will roll out in a software update by late January. This update will also include all the fixes and improvements that were originally planned in December. If you received the December software update on Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro and are still experiencing mobile connectivity issues, you can revert to the previous software version using the Android Flash Tool (flash.android.com) and performing a factory reset. Please back up your phone before restoring to the previous software version. If you are not experiencing mobile connectivity issues, no action is required. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we roll out the fix.

To mention, not all units are facing this problem. In case you are having these issues, you can switch back to the previous version. But, as a precautionary measure, make sure to take a backup first. Google will identify a solution soon. The new build is expected to arrive this month with other enhancements and fixes.

Related: Google fixes the ghost-dialing problem in Pixel 6




Xiaomi Mi 11 gets stable Android 12 based MIUI 13 update

The official Android 12 based MIUI 13 is finally here. The Xiaomi Mi 11 becomes the first device from the company to get the latest package. For now, the update is rolling out in China via the firmware version V13.0.4.0.SKBCNXM weighing 4.5 GB in size.


Must see: Download Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 Wallpapers in HD Quality

The Android 12 based MIUI 13 brings a bundle of new features and optimizations that makes the performance smooth than ever before. You can dig the best of MIUI 13 features by tapping on the button below.

MIUI 13 Features


Moreover, Xiaomi has issued an official changelog that mentions enhanced security by adding a face verification protection feature and privacy watermark function. Also, it adds some functions of Mi Magic along with some new system font MiSans, live wallpapers, and various other rich changes that you can see below.

Changelog


Recommended

  • Added face verification protection and privacy watermark functions to protect you in daily life

  • Added full-link electrical fraud protection function to help you stay away from telecommunications fraud. Added new widget system, supporting rich application widgets and personalized widgets

  • Added a new system font MiSans, which is visually clear and comfortable to read

  • Added live wallpaper beautiful science “crystals”, showing the beauty of science under the microscope

  • Add a fully customizable Xiao Ai classmate, your personal intelligent assistant

  • Added some features of Xiaomi Magic Enjoy, which supports the interconnection of mobile phones and tablets, and the content is between devices seamless natural flow

  • Optimize the basic experience faster and more stable


Basic optimization

  • Optimize the fluency of system applications and third-party applications on the head

  • Optimization Improve desktop fluency and enhance user experience


System

  • MIUI stable version based on Android 12 deep customization is released


Xiaomi Miaoxiang

  • Added some functions of Mi Magic. You can automatically connect and experience the seamless transfer of apps and data by logging in to the same Mi account on your mobile phone and tablet. The photos taken by the mobile phone are automatically transferred to the tablet to display the new hotspot transfer, support the tablet to connect to the mobile hotspot, add support for clipboard intercommunication, copy on either end of the phone or tablet, and paste directly on the other end

  • Added application flow, through the tablet taskbar, continue to use mobile applications on the tablet When you insert a note into a picture, you can add it by taking a photo with your mobile phone. The full features of Mi Magic will be upgraded later. For details, please refer to the MIUI official website. To use the photo transfer function, you need to upgrade MIUI+ to 3.5.11 and above in the app store of your mobile phone and tablet.


Privacy Protection

  • Added a new document privacy watermark, intelligently identify sensitive documents, and quickly add watermarks to prevent personal

  • Pieces of information stolen

  • Added full-link electronic fraud protection, including electronic fraud warning, official identification, and risk transfer prevention. Added privacy input mode to protect the privacy of input methods. Added system-level occlusion during face verification to avoid excessive acquisition of privacy by applications. Use MIUI13 privacy Protection function, you need to upgrade the photo album, mobile phone manager, contacts, SMS, and other applications to the latest version in the app store

  • Protection, to help you stay away from Telecom Fraud

  • Added incognito mode, all recording, positioning, and photographing permissions can be prohibited when turned on


System Font Design

  • Added a new system font MiSans, with a clear vision and comfortable reading


Wallpaper

  • Newly added live wallpaper beautiful science “crystallization”, showing the beauty that is not easy to find in the microscopic world


Widgets

  • Added a new widget system, layout your desktop with rich widgets

  • Added rich system and third-party application widgets, useful information is directly exposed to you. Added fun personalized widgets, including personalized clocks, signatures and stickers, and more

  • Fun widgets waiting for you to discover


XiaoAI Classmate

  • Added a fully customizable Xiao Ai classmate, the image, voice, and wake-up words can be customized. To use this function, you need to upgrade Xiao Ai classmate to the latest version in the app store


More functions and optimizations

  • Added a new global sidebar, which supports opening applications in the form of small windows. Optimized dialing, clock, weather, and theme accessibility modes. Optimized browser privacy protection, web browsing, and information reading experience

  • Added Xiaomi Wensheng adds environmental sound detection function

  • Optimize the recognition success rate of barrier-free voice control

  • Optimize the operation experience of the Mindnote node

  • Optimize the visual style of the wallet interface


The Mi 11 users in China can check the update via the Software Update section under the Settings app and tap on Download and install.

Read more: Xiaomi 12 Pro