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Photos Stack Feature on Google Photos Goes Live for Android

Google Photos never misses a chance to impress users with new features and photo enhancement tools. Following some recent updates to our favorite gallery app, it has now received the much-awaited Photos Stack feature. It lets users stack similar photos into a single group on their smartphone.

The feature has already been live on Apple smartphones and tablets since November last year, and now Android users would be delighted to enjoy this new yet useful feature. Photos Stack Future lets the user declutter the gallery and group similar photos under a single thumbnail. It would be easier now for users to scroll through the Photos app without going through similarly snapped photos.

Enable Photos Stack on Android Smartphones

The Photos Stack feature can be easily enabled by heading to Photos Settings > Preferences > Stack Similar Photos. Otherwise, the Google Photos app will also ask you to enable the feature via a pop-up once you update the app from the Play Store. It is seen working on Google Photos version 6.66.0.597410323. Once activated, photos grouped as stacks will appear as a single thumbnail in grid view. The stack can be identified by an icon in the upper-right corner of the thumbnail.

Like the burst photos in Google Photos, the new Photo Stack feature will also show a single thumbnail with a specific icon on the top, upper right corner to distinguish it. Upon opening the Photos Stack, users would be able to see all the images in a strip from left to right. Moreover, users can select a top pick, delete unwanted images, or choose specific images for deletion.

The feature supports sharing the entire stack or just the top pick with family and friends. For those who find the option inconvenient, it can be turned off in settings or by choosing the “Unstack photos” option. The rollout of Photo Stacks may take a few days.

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Samsung in a race with Apple to develop needle-free blood sugar monitor

Samsung and Apple are stepping up their game in wearable technology, focusing on developing non-invasive methods for monitoring vital health metrics like blood glucose levels and blood pressure. This new wave of competition is expected to bring significant advancements in health monitoring devices within the next five years.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

Samsung and Apple’s Push for Non-Invasive Monitoring Solutions

Apple has also been exploring non-invasive blood glucose monitoring techniques for years. These methods aim to eliminate the need for skin piercing and blood extraction, making the process much easier for patients.

Meanwhile, Huawei has already released a watch last year, the Huawei Watch 4, featuring a non-invasive glucose monitoring capability. This function assesses the risk of high blood sugar by measuring ten health metrics, but it does not directly read blood glucose levels. However, there are uncertainties about the accuracy and functionality of Huawei’s innovation in this area.

Hon Pak, Samsung Mobile’s Head of Digital Health, highlighted in a Bloomberg interview the importance of non-invasive blood glucose monitoring for diabetes patients. He emphasized that wearable devices capable of continuously measuring blood pressure and blood glucose will revolutionize health management. Pak noted that these technologies would be available in some form in the next five years, though no specific timeline was given.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch already includes blood pressure measurement features, but it requires frequent calibration and doesn’t provide continuous monitoring. The spokesperson also talked about Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Ring, a wearable device focusing on tracking activity and sleep quality. Over time, it will incorporate more health monitoring features.

This ring is designed for comfort, allowing continuous wear for accurate health data tracking. Its advantage over smartwatches lies in its continuous wearability, as smartwatches often need to be removed for charging, interrupting constant health monitoring.

Moreover, Samsung plans to enhance smart headphones to measure body temperature and heart rate. The company’s vice president explained that the ear is an ideal location for such measurements due to its proximity to the heart. When combined with data from smartwatches, these readings from headphones could offer a more comprehensive view of a user’s health.

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ASUS Zenfone 11 Surfaces On Google Play Console With Surprising SoC Details

ASUS is reportedly working on the next-generation Zenfone smartphone. The upcoming offering is expected to be the Zenfone 11 and will arrive as the successor to the Zenfone 10 that debuted in June last year. The device has already been spotted on the Bluetooth SIG and SDPPI certification websites. Now the Zenfone 11 has surfaced on the Google Play Console revealing some surprising information. 

ASUS Zenfone 11 spotted on Google Play Console

The ASUS Zenfone 11 is listed on the Google Play Console certification website with the model number ASUS_AI2401. It confirms the phone’s moniker. The render in the listing shows the smartphone with a center-aligned punch-hole cutout surrounded by thin bezels. There are power and volume rocker keys on the right edge.

As per the Play Console certification, the ASUS Zenfone 11 has a SoC model numbered QTI SM8650 corresponding to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. However, the CPU configuration has  a Kyro 9xx core at 3.30GHz, five Kyro 9xx cores at 3.2GHz, and two Kyro 9xx cores at 2.3GHz. There is Adreno 830 GPU onboard. This is quite confusing especially the GPU as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 has the Adreno 750. Hence, the processor details on the Zenfone 11 does not seem to be accurate. The listing mentions 16GB RAM onboard and the device will ship with Android 14 OS out of the box. 

The Google Play Console listing also reveals that the ASUS Zenfone 11 will have a display resolution of 1,080 x 2,400 pixels and a screen density 420 dpi. 

There’s still time for ASUS to unveil the next Zenfone flagship if it continues with the mid-year launch timeline. 

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Honor Choice Watch Teased To Launch In India Soon

Honor has been dropping teasers about the arrival of its next smartphone and a TWS earphone. Now, the brand’s CEO Madhav Sheth has shared a new teaser on his X (formerly Twitter) account. This time, the device is a smartwatch dubbed the Honor Choice Watch. It confirms the wearable device’s arrival in the country. 

Honor Choice Watch teased to launch in India

Sheth has shared a unboxing video of the Honor Choice Watch. It does not reveal key specifications of the device. But we get a look at the upcoming offering. It has a squarish dial with a physical button on the right side. The upcoming wearable device will come with heart-rate monitor, sleep tracking, and support for various workout modes. From the teaser, we were also able to notice that the Choice Watch will pack a built-in calculator, weather app, alarm, calendar, and more. The device will be able to control music playback. 

The Honor Choice Watch has a buckle strap design. The unboxing video also reveals support for magnetic charging. The rest of the details of the device remain a mystery as of now. However, the upcoming offering seems similar to the Honor Haylou Watch that debuted in China last month. It has a 1.95-inch AMOLED display with 60Hz refresh rate and 550 nits peak brightness. The device supports automatic recognition of workout activities. It is equipped with independent satellite positioning. The Honor Haylou Watch is backed by a 300mAh battery that is claimed to offer 12 days of usage. 

The exact launch timeline of the Honor Choice Watch remains unclear. A recent report revealed that the Honor X9b which is also teased could debut on February 8 or 9. We can expect the Choice Earbuds and Choice Watch to be announced at the same event. 

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Apple Vision Pro’s Massive Retail Box Revealed! What’s in the Box?

Excitement is building for Vision Pro. The mixed reality headset, currently in the pre-order phase and will be available in Apple stores in the U.S. on February 2nd. While we haven’t seen it in person, leaks and statements are revealing new details about the product. Recently, it was mentioned that the headset will be heavier than expected. Now, a massive retail box has emerged, likely accompanying the Apple Vision Pro, hinting at significant features. Here are the details…

Apple Vision Pro Massive Retail Box Revealed

Apple recently unveiled the box for their much-anticipated mixed reality headset, Vision Pro, in a training video for Apple employees. The box, while notably large, adheres to Apple’s signature minimalist design. It showcases the front face of the Vision Pro headset at the top, accompanied by the gray text “Vision Pro” along the long edges. Upon opening the box, you’ll find the headset, two adjustable headbands in different sizes, and a soft fabric light-blocking face mask.

Render of the Apple Vision Pro box based on official materials.

The Vision Pro box appears to be crafted with the device’s contents and delicate structure in mind. Apple has a history of unveiling their advanced products in sizable boxes. Nevertheless, they later shifted towards sustainability, adopting a more minimalist approach to reduce carbon footprint by downsizing the packaging.

While the box’s design might not be thrilling, Vision Pro’s innovative features have captured users’ attention. For example, Apple Vision Pro is in high demand in China, leading to notably increased prices in the grey market. It’s important to mention that the product is priced at $3,500. We’ll soon find out if it lives up to these expectations. If you’re wondering how to pre-order, you can read our article by clicking here.

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Oppo Reno 11F 5G and Realme Note 50 arrive on UAE’s TDRA

Oppo is preparing to launch the third smartphone in the Reno 11 Series. With the launch of the Reno 11 5G and Reno 11 Pro 5G in Indonesia, speculations for the Reno 11F 5G launch are quite rife. Following official teasers from Oppo Indonesia’s post on X.com early today, the smartphone has appeared on the UAE’s TDRA certification. It confirms the Oppo 11F 5G launch in the UAE. Along with Oppo, Realme is not so far behind, as they have introduced the Realme Note 50 in the Philippines, and now it is heading for a launch in the UAE, as it also appeared on the TDRA certification website.

Oppo Reno 11F 5G

Oppo Reno 11F 5G Appears on TDRA

The listing failed to unveil any specification details about the smartphone. However, it does confirm the upcoming launch.

Oppo Reno 11F 5G’s landing page went live today in Indonesia and is confirmed with a “coming soon” tagline. The smartphone seems to launch in green, pink, and blue color options. Surprisingly, some reports cite it as available for pre-orders in the offline line markets. However, the smartphone is expected to launch on February 24.

Oppo Reno 11F 5G is set to impress with a 6.7-inch AMOLED FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The Dimensity 7050 chipset is coupled with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of built-in storage. It will have a 5,000mAh battery, complemented by a fast 67W charging feature.

It will bundle a 32-megapixel front camera for stunning selfies. The rear camera module comprises a 64-megapixel main sensor, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro lens, offering a diverse range of photography options. Further, it will bring an in-display fingerprint scanner for seamless security and an IP67-rated chassis, adding an extra layer of durability. If rumors hold, the Oppo Reno 11F 5G may debut in the Indian market in February, potentially under the Oppo F25 branding. With its impressive specifications and features, the Oppo Reno 11F 5G is poised to be a noteworthy addition to Oppo’s smartphone lineup.

Realme Note 50’s TDRA Listing

The company’s first-ever Note series smartphone is already live in the Philippines. The smartphone seems to make its debut in the UAE if we go with the TDRA certification. Other details are already public with the recent launch.

The entry-level smartphone, the Realme Note 50, features a 6.74-inch IPS LCD with an HD+ resolution and an impressive 90Hz refresh rate. The slim and lightweight device boasts an IP54-rated dustproof and water-resistant design. Security options include a side-facing fingerprint scanner and face unlock. It has a Unisoc T612 chip with 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage, and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 10W charging, all of which run on Realme UI T-based Android 13 Go. The camera setup includes a 5 MP front camera and a rear setup featuring a 13 MP primary camera, a monochrome sensor, and an LED flash. Priced at PHP 3,599 (~$65), the Realme Note 50 is available in Midnight Black and Sky Blue.

We expect the smartphone to launch soon in the UAE. Surprisingly, the company is also preparing two new Realme Note series phones after the Realme Note 50.

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ASUS confirms discontinuation of NUC Extreme mini PCs

ASUS has recently announced that they will not be updating their NUC Extreme Series of mini PCs, with the NUC 13 Extreme “Raptor Canyon” being the last model in this line. This decision was confirmed by an ASUS spokesperson to the Fudzilla media outlet.

Asus NUC 13 Extreme

Ending NUC Extreme Series for Advanced Compact PC Lineup

Intel NUC, short for ‘Next Unit of Computing’, represents a line of small-form-factor barebone computer kits. However, ASUS took over the NUC product line from Intel following Intel’s decision in July of the previous year to stop direct investment in the NUC business. ASUS received non-exclusive rights from Intel to continue with the product line.

The NUC 13 Extreme, which was originally released by Intel at the end of 2022, is known for its powerful performance, supporting the high-end Intel Core i9-13900K processor and large graphics cards. It marked a significant departure from traditional small PCs with its 14-liter volume.

During CES 2024, ASUS highlighted their latest laptop designs featuring Intel’s 14th Gen Core processors and Meteor Lake chips. They also showcased new monitors and introduced the ASUS ROG NUC, which is a new addition to their gaming-oriented NUC product line. The ROG NUC is more compact, with a maximum volume of 2.5 liters, and includes options for the Intel Core Ultra 9185H processor and NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics card.

ASUS is moving forward with its own PC designs, such as the ROG STRIX G16CHR system and the ROG C22H, both featuring advanced CPUs and GPUs. These designs offer more traditional consumer hardware, which might be more appealing to users due to their familiarity and flexibility.

The decision to stop updating the NUC Extreme series might be influenced by ASUS’s focus on their existing and new product lines, which offer different options in terms of size, power, and flexibility. The NUC Extreme series, while unique in its form factor and capabilities, catered to a niche audience of enthusiasts rather than a broad consumer base.

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OnePlus Open Gets January Patch, Android 14 Wait Continues

The OnePlus Open foldable phone has received a late January software update, delivering the latest security patch and addressing some user-reported issues.

OnePlus Open January Update

Spotted on the OnePlus Open subreddit, the update (version CPH2551_13.2.0.301) weighs in at 459MB.

Among the key fixes it includes is an improvement to the foldable’s touch control experience. The update also introduces a new multitasking feature, a drag-and-drop app replacement in a three-way split view.

Here’s the complete changelog of the latest update:

System
Improves System Stability
Improves touch control experience
You can now drag to replace the current app with a new one in a three-way split view
Integrates the January 2024 Android security patch to enhance system security
Fixes a display issue that might occur in Quick Settings
The Background stream feature in the Smart Sidebar has been removed

Communication
Improves the Stability of network connections

Camera
Improves camera performance for a better user experience

While this update brings welcome improvements, users are still waiting for Oxager for OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14. OnePlus released its latest custom skin back in September with a bunch of new features including File Dock, Content Extraction, and Smart cutout.

OnePlus hasn’t shared any official timeline for Android 14’s arrival on the OnePlus Open, but OnePlus has started the Open Beta 2 rollout in India. So we might still need to wait for a few weeks to get hands-on on the latest OS. 

Nevertheless, the company has been delivering a timely update for its first foldable. OnePlus Open users can check for the January update by heading to Settings > About device > OxygenOS > Check for update.

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Nokia G42 5G gets Android 14 update

HMD Global has rolled out the Android 14 update for its Nokia G42 5G smartphone, bringing a suite of new features and improvements to the device. The update, version 2.160, is sizable at 2.68GB and includes the December 2023 Google security patch.

Nokia G42 5G Android 14

The main changes coming with the update are as follows:

  1. Health Data Management: A more straightforward approach to tracking health data is now available, making it easier for users to monitor their wellness.
  2. App Data Permissions: The update offers clearer information about app data permissions, simplifying the process of granting or denying access.
  3. Inclusive Visual and Hearing Features: New features include camera and screen flashes for notifications, larger fonts, and smarter scaling to cater to a wider range of users.
  4. Battery Life Improvements: Users can now see screen time since the last full charge, helping to better manage battery life.
  5. Customization Options: Enhanced customization is available with a new lock screen picker, templates, a monochromatic theme, and support for Ultra HDR images.
  6. Predictive Back Gestures and Improved Sharing: The update brings predictive back gestures and more streamlined sharing options.

The Nokia G42 5G features a 6.56-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 3 protection. It’s powered by a Snapdragon 480+ SoC and comes in two memory configurations. The phone’s camera setup includes a 50 MP main camera and an 8 MP front camera.

Nokia G42 5G

Additional specifications include a 3.5mm audio jack, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, IP52 dust and splash resistance, and a variety of connectivity options. The device runs on a 5000mAh battery with 20W fast charging support.

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ChromeOS 120 update is here with the ‘Bento Button’

ChromeOS 120 was recently released, bringing a fresh wave of updates and improvements to the ChromeOS experience. This version introduces new functionalities for virtual desk management and begins the phase-out of support for certain legacy media formats.

ChromeOS logo

One of the key features of ChromeOS 120 is the introduction of the ‘Bento Button’, a new shelf button designed to streamline the management of virtual desks. This feature allows users to easily visualize, switch, create, and order virtual desks, enhancing multitasking efficiency for those who frequently use multiple virtual desks.

However, ChromeOS 120 also marks the beginning of the end for support of the MPEG4 Part 2 video codec and AVI container. Users who still need these formats can temporarily re-enable support using the chrome://flags/#cros-legacy-media-formats link, but this workaround will only be available until the release of ChromeOS 125.

Additional updates in ChromeOS 120 include:

  1. Mouse and Keyboard Customization: Users can now disable mouse scroll acceleration and adjust scroll speed. Keyboard settings have also been enhanced, allowing customization for actions like right-click, home, end, and page up.
  2. Resizable Picture-in-Picture (PiP): ChromeOS 120 introduces the ability to resize PiP windows using a pinch gesture, adding a layer of convenience to multitasking.
  3. Revamped Emoji Picker: The emoji and GIF picker gets a dynamic color palette, making the selection process more engaging and visually appealing.
  4. XDR Authentication Events: As part of Extended Detection and Response (XDR) on ChromeOS, authentication events like login, logout, lock, and unlock can now be enabled, providing insights into device security posture.
  5. App Management and Details: Users can now view detailed information about installed apps, including storage usage, version number, and installation source.

For administrators, ChromeOS 120 brings new or updated policies in the Admin console, such as PowerManagementIdleSettings, ScreenLockDelays, LidCloseAction, and more. These policies provide greater control over device management and security.

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Xiaomi HyperOS for older phones comes with Android 13

Xiaomi has been rolling out HyperOS to eligible devices since the last few months. The update is being seeded out to eligible products worldwide.

Up until now, only newer models had been receiving the update. Now, as the company has started beta testing the software for older products, an interesting detail has emerged.

Apparently, Xiaomi is not done with its old way of doing things.

Xiaomi HyperOS Logo

HyperOS arrives in multiple Android flavours like MIUI

When Xiaomi unveiled HyperOS, we expected it to be a fresh chapter in the company’s software journey. But unfortunately, it is not the case.

Though the new software is built ground up focusing on interconnectivity and optimizations, it is MIUI through and through, which is not a bad thing. But what’s bizarre is retaining an archaic feature.

Xiaomi used to maintain MIUI based on multiple Android versions. We anticipated the end of this trend with the release of HyperOS. However, the company is continuing it.

Recently, HyperOS builds for three older Xiaomi devices went live on the company’s server. These phones are Redmi K40, Xiaomi 12X, and Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G.

The software builds for these handsets are based on older Android 13 instead of Android 14. Thus, the aforementioned products miss out on their third Android update but do get the latest HyperOS.

Xiaomi never promised three Android updates for either of these devices. Thus, we cannot blame the company for its action. 

However, we cannot stop criticizing either, given the competitors have upped their software game. Anyways, we are glad to know that the users of these older smartphones will get to experience HyperOS. 

Additionally, it is worth noting that the Redmi K40 also goes by Poco F3 and Mi 11X. Similarly, Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is a rebadged Redmi Note 10 Pro (Max). Therefore, these three handsets should also get the HyperOS update.

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Samsung announces pricing for Galaxy Tab Active 5 rugged tablet

A few days ago, Samsung unveiled their new Galaxy Tab Active 5 tablet. Designed for enterprise and industrial use, this rugged tablet comes with features like a durable body and a removable battery. At first, Samsung didn’t disclose the price and availability, but they have now announced it. So let’s take a closer look at the details.

Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 Price

The base model of the Galaxy Tab Active 5, featuring LTE connectivity, starts at $548.99 in the US. The one with the 5G connectivity will be available at a higher price point. The tablet will arrive in US stores before the end of March 2024.

For businesses deploying multiple devices, Samsung offers an Enterprise Edition of Tab Active 5, which simplifies configuration and management. Both versions will be available through the Samsung Business website.

Specifications

As aforementioned, the Galaxy Tab Active 5 is a tough tablet built for harsh environments. It’s MIL-STD-810H certified and comes with a protective case that can survive drops from 12 meters. It’s also dustproof, waterproof with an IP68 rating and scratch-resistant with the Gorilla Glass 5.

There is an 8-inch FHD display on the front with a 120Hz refresh rate. For photos, you get a 13MP rear camera and a 5MP selfie camera.

The performance side of things is handled by the Exynos 1380 chipset with 6GB/8GB RAM and 128GB/256GB storage. That latter is expandable via a microSD card. While Samsung has made a name for itself with timely software upgrades, the Tab Active 5 comes with older Android 12, though an upgrade is expected.

Keeping the lights on is a 5,050mAh battery, and there is a side fingerprint scanner for security. There is also a dedicated Active key on the side and connectivity features include dual SIM, 5G, pogo pin, USB-C, and Wi-Fi 6.

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Safari 17.3 is here for macOS Monterey and macOS Ventura

Amid the iOS 17.3 and iPadOS 17.3 updates with plenty of new useful features, the Cupertino giant is here with Safari 17.3 for macOS Monterey and macOS Ventura. There are some new changes in the latest Safari update that enhance system security. Primarily, it fixes the privacy issue that shows user’s private data in Settings. It enhances the issue with improved handling of user preferences in Settings.

Further, it fixes some WebKit-related issues that may have led to arbitrary code execution and could have caused data theft. The update will surely strengthen the system’s browser security. The severity of the issues seems high, as one of the issues was related to the processing of maliciously crafted web content, which could have led to arbitrary code execution. The issue with ID CVE-2024-23222 is addressed, and the latest update ensures better security.

Safari is well known for its modern design, fast performance, and integration with the Apple ecosystem. There are plenty of exciting features that the Safari Browser offers, including intelligent tracking prevention, enhanced privacy, and security. Because it offers better speed and energy efficiency, Apple users use it frequently.

Apple keeps updating the Safari browser to keep it bug-free and equipped with all the new features. Following Google Chrome’s shortcut feature, Safari also received the ability to place the shortcut in the dock like any macOS app.

Alongside the Safari browser, Apple unveiled macOS Sonoma 14.3 with some new features. After delving into the features of the iOS 17.3 update, Apple enthusiasts can now explore the macOS 14.3 Sonoma update. Although this version doesn’t add a Stolen Device Protection feature akin to its iOS counterpart, it does bring significant improvements to Apple Music along with new features, bug fixes, and security updates specifically designed for Mac users, as described in Apple’s release notes.

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Pixel storage bug is haunting users again, thanks to January update

Pixel users who use multiple profiles on their phones are facing an old problem again. A storage bug that first showed up in October 2023 has come back, possibly because of the latest Google Play system update in January 2024.

This bug seems to be affecting the majority of the Pixel phones, including the Pixel 5, 6, 7, 8, and even the Pixel Fold. And it’s causing the same troubles as before — the camera app crashing, an empty Files app, missing screenshots, and a sudden lack of storage space even when there should be plenty.

Google Pixel Storage Bug

On the Pixel community forum on Reddit, many users are sharing their frustrations. One user said, “The phone seems to have trouble remembering the location of its own data”.

Another user said they can’t download anything new or save screenshots, calling their phone “completely unusable.” People are clearly upset and need Google to fix this soon.

Fortunately, Google has acknowledged the problem and is currently looking into it, as reported by 9to5Google.

Although there’s no set date for when the fix will be available, it’s worth noting that when this problem first appeared in October, Google released a patch the following month, in November. Given this precedent, it’s reasonable to expect that Google might roll out a fix in the next few days.

If you haven’t yet updated your Pixel with the January 2024 Google Play update, it might be wise to hold off for now. If you’ve already updated and are experiencing this storage issue, try disabling the multiple profiles on your phone to see if it helps.

To check your Pixel phone’s Google Play System update version, go to Security and Privacy > System & Updates > Google Play System Update.

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Nothing Phone (1) makes a cameo appearance in Tesla Cybertruck teaser

With the Cybertruck finally rolling out, Tesla recently shared new teasers for its latest electric vehicle. Interestingly enough, the Nothing Phone (1) managed to make a cameo appearance in one of these teaser videos. So let’s have a look.

Nothing Phone (1) Cameo in Cybertruck Teaser

To recall, the Tesla Cybertruck was unveiled and is available in North America. In an official tweet, the EV maker released a teaser video that showcases some of its features. One segment of the video talks about the reverse charging feature of the EV, which is also where the Nothing Phone (1) makes a short appearance. Nothing Phone (1) was first unveiled back in 2022 and launched with support for Tesla integration.

So the glimpse of the device isn’t too surprising. The CEO and Founder of Nothing, Carl Pei, retweeted this teaser and even thanked Elon Musk for the shoutout. Based on what we know, the Cybertruck features 120W and 240W power outlets as well as a bi-directional charge port. This EV can also power the owner’s home with 11.5kW of continuous power. It can even power another EV and allow users to operate power tools. The 9.6kW power would enable powering different tools for multiple different functions.

Nothing Phone (1)

Talking about the smartphone itself, the Phone (1) released with a 6.55-inch OLED display with Full HD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. It features a 50-megapixel dual camera setup on the rear, while the front houses a 16-megapixel selfie shooter. Under the hood, it is equipped with the Snapdragon 778G+ SoC out of the box. A 4,500mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports 33W wired fast charging, 15W wireless fast charging, and 5W reverse wireless charging as well.

Realme 12+ gets certified in the UAE, launch seems near

The Realme 12 Pro series is set to launch in the Indian market later this month. But recent reports have hinted that the numbered series will also include non-pro models as well. Now, the Realme 12+ model was sighted in a certification listing in the UAE, which hints at its imminent release.

Realme 12+ surfaces on TDRA

The Chinese brand’s Realme 12+ was spotted in the TDRA database, which is a certification platform in the UAE. The smartphone was found carrying the RMX3867 model number. This is in line with our previous sighting. To recall, the Realme 12+ 5G model was certified in Thailand on the NBTC platform last week. Similarly, the device even bagged multiple other certifications earlier this month.

Realme 12+

These platforms include SIRIM, TKDN, SDPPI, FCC, and even CameraV5. Notably, a Realme smartphone model carrying the RMX3866 model number was approved by China’s 3C certification. This listing revealed the supprot for 67W wired fast charging. Based on the similarities of the model number, this version could be the China exclusive variant of the Realme 12+. All of these sightings basically point at the launch of the device being right around the corner.

Based on the previous FCC listing, the Realme 12+ will run on the Android 14 OS based Realme UI 5 custom skin out of the box. It supports 5G networking along with dual SIM and NFC support. A large 5,000mAh battery pack is expected to power this device, with its power adapter having the VCB7CAAH model number. Pictures shared FCC showcase a device with a triple camera setup on the back. An official announcement should arrive soon, so stick around for more updates.

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Lenovo executive expects Motorola to reach third place in smartphone market in 3 years

Once a top smartphone brand, Motorola has been playing catch-up since Google sold it to Lenovo in 2014. But now, Lenovo has set an ambitious goal — to propel Motorola to the top three smartphone makers globally within three years.

This bold claim comes from Matthew Zielinski, Lenovo’s international markets chief, who is confident enough to wager his paycheck on this goal. 

Talking to CNBC, Zielinski said ‘I would bet a paycheck that in three years we will be number three around the world.’

Motorola top smartphone brand

The current smartphone market is dominated by Apple and Samsung, who together hold a whopping 40% market share. Meanwhile, Motorola and Lenovo combined barely scraped together 4% in the last quarter.

Their strategy to climb the ranks involves targeting the high-end market segment, where Apple and Samsung are currently strong. A key part of this plan is their Razr phone, which is priced as a premium product. Zielinski sees the foldable Razr smartphone as Motorola’s entry into the high-end market.

Additionally, Lenovo is prepared to expand its manufacturing facility in Pondicherry, India, to support their growth. 

Zielinski highlighted the importance of India in Lenovo’s strategy. He sees it as a key country, not just for sales but for manufacturing too. Apple, for instance, has significantly increased its iPhone production in India.

Zielinski emphasized India’s strategic importance, citing the country’s rapid adoption of 5G and the wide range of Lenovo’s products, from smartphones to cloud services. 

He noted the ongoing discussions with the Indian government and the company’s plans to create more jobs in India.

“We’re going to place as many bets as we can because we think the growth of the Indian population is fantastic, and they’re wonderful people,” Zielinski said, highlighting the company’s commitment to the Indian market.

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Vivo Y200e with Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 visits GeekBench, launch may be near

The new Vivo Y200e model is reportedly in the works. The device in question was recently spotted on the Bluetooth SIG certification earlier today (23rd January 2024), and now, it has also been spotted on a popular benchmarking platform.

Vivo Y200e visits GeekBench

Back in October 2023, the Chinese smartphone maker unveiled the Vivo Y200 model in the Indian market. Now, it appears another model in the Y200 series is set to launch soon. In a GeekBench database (spotted by 91Mobiles), the Vivo Y200e was spotted carrying the model number V2336, which is the same as the number found on the Bluetooth SIG certification listing. These sightings also hint that the launch could be near.

Vivo Y200e

The listing confirms that the Vivo Y200e will support 5G networking thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC, which is paired with Adreno 613 GPU. This chipset visited GeekBench with 8GB of RAM and running on Android 14 OS based Funtouch OS custom skin. Looking at the benchmark listing, the device received 3115 points in the single core test and 8112 points in the multi core test. Unfortunately, other finer details like its design, specs, and pricing are still at large.

But since the Y200e is a part of the Y200 series, it may feature specs that are similar to the Vivo Y200. To recall, the Y200 sports a tall 6.67-inch AMOLED display that offers Full HD+ resolution, 800 nits of peak brightness, and Full HD+ resolution. Under the hood, the device is equipped with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 SoC as well, along with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The rear packs a 64-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses a 16-megapixel selfie shooter.

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Samsung’s IAMF 3D audio format set for late 2024 rollout

Last year, Samsung introduced a new 3D sound technology called Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF), developed together with Google. Samsung has now confirmed that the technology will be included in their TVs and audio products starting this year.

IAMF is set to compete with Dolby Atmos, the current leading audio standard in the market. It aims to offer an immersive listening experience, but with some unique features that set it apart.

Like Dolby Atmos, IAMF enables spatial audio that goes beyond traditional horizontal surround sound, adding vertical sound capabilities for a more realistic soundscape. However, IAMF offers several unique features.

Unlike Dolby Atmos, IAMF is an open-source 3D audio format that doesn’t require any licensing fees. This means that it could be adopted by more manufacturers and potentially be cheaper for consumers. It also uses AI to better identify and place sounds within a scene to make the audio more precise and realistic.

Additionally, IAMF can adjust specific audio elements like the clarity of dialogue depending on what you’re watching, offering a more customized listening experience.

As for its availability, IAMF is expected to appear on Samsung TVs and sound systems in 2024. Samsung hasn’t specified which models will feature it yet. It is also said to work on even older-generation TVs and soundbars via a firmware update. This means you won’t have to buy new equipment to enjoy this new audio technology.

However, Samsung has yet to confirm the extent of backward compatibility with older TVs and sound systems. Samsung will likely limit the support to select products only. YouTube is also reportedly considering incorporating IAMF support in its content later this year.

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Xiaomi Pad 6 HyperOS update is live in India

Xiaomi is rolling out a significant update for its Xiaomi Pad 6 in India, transitioning the device to its new Android 14-based HyperOS operating system.

Xiaomi Pad 6 series

The HyperOS update represents the first of three major system updates promised for the Xiaomi Pad 6, with the company also committing to five years of security patches. This move reflects Xiaomi’s dedication to long-term device support and security.

Key Features of the HyperOS Update:

  1. Latest Android 14 Platform: The update brings the Xiaomi Pad 6 up to speed with the latest Android 14 version, ensuring users have access to the newest features and security enhancements. Included in this rollout is the December 2023 security patch.
  2. Enhanced User Interface: Users will notice a fresh look with aesthetic improvements in the user interface, showcasing new colors and animations. This visual revamp aims to enhance the user experience with a more intuitive and vibrant interface.
  3. Workstation Mode: A standout feature of the Xiaomi Pad 6, the Workstation Mode, remains integral in HyperOS. This mode allows users to open and work on multiple apps in small windows, similar to a desktop PC. It’s particularly useful for productivity apps like Excel, Word, and Gmail, offering a desktop-like experience on a portable device.
  4. Customizable Lock Screen: The update brings extensive customization options for the lock screen. Users can now personalize their device with various themes, designs, and artwork, alongside adjustable widgets for size, style, font, and color.

Updating to HyperOS:

  • The HyperOS update is being rolled out in phases across India.
  • Users can manually check for the update in Settings > About > Software Info > Updates.
  • The update, labeled as firmware version 1.0.2.0.UMZINXM, is approximately 4.2GB in size.
  • It is recommended to have the device charged above 75% and allocate around 10-15 minutes for the update process.

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