Ulefone’s Armor Series is one of the most recognizable in the rugged phones category and the latest addition to the lineup is the super-budget Ulefone Armor X3. Today, the Chinese manufacturer released the first hands-on video so we can check out how it performs. The MT6580 quad-core SoC is enough for casual use and you can even play some popular games without any problems.

Design-wise, the Armor X3 remains loyal to the classic style of the Armor 6, the one that sports convex design on four corners and a slanted design on the back cover that prevent accidental drops from damaging the phone. Also, thanks to the IP68/IP69K/MIL-STD-810G certifications, the device is so durable it can handle sudden drops, water washing, and other harsh conditions.

The X3 comes equipped with a 5.5″ all-screen display with 18:9 aspect ratio for more vertical space and wider vision. On the camera side, there is a dual rear camera with 8MP/2MP sensors and it is exciting that it supports underwater photography. The selfie shooter comes with a 5MP sensor and can also be used for Face unlock. The Armor X3 comes with Android 9 Pie and that adds to the snappiness of the device. In the video, you can see the user checking Twitter, chatting on Messenger, listening to music, watching YouTube, and playing Temple Run 2. As it t turned out, everything ran smoothly without stutters.

What’s more, the Armor X3 also supports two other creative functions: Gloves Pattern and Easy Key. The “gloves pattern” enables you to normally use the touch screen of the phone while wearing gloves while the Easy Key allows you to set specific functions or app launching to the quick access button.

Starting today, you can preorder the Ulefone Armor X3 on the Ulefone FlashDeal Store on Aliexpress with a special price tag of $79.99. That price includes a free tempered glass too! The deal will be ongoing until August 13th. For more information about other Ulefone devices, visit the official website.

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Smartphone models are literally thousands and choosing the right one can become a real pain. Choose a good looking phone with decent specs or choose a rugged phone with a battery that lasts “forever”? Such a struggle is easier to solve when the Blackview BV9500 enters the equation. The phone presented a great sales performance proving that the 10000mAh ultra-big BAK® battery and rugged specs instantly became a favorite among engineers, building workers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

That was until 2018 as development is processing power made the Helio P23 found on the BV9500 a bit weak and in conjunction with Android 8.1 OS seemingly can’t meet the need of today’s phone users. Also, the big battery capacity alone isn’t enough for users to prefer this over a more powerful competitor. Blackview didn’t back off and is bringing the BV9500 Plus to the market, an upgraded version of BV9500 that not only inherits the advantages of the old model but also improves its inadequacies.

To start, BV9500 Plus retains the killer feature of its predecessor which is the 10000mAh BAK® battery with standby time up to 40 days. In addition, there are 2 charging options now: the wireless charging and 12V/2A fast charging that is more than 2 times faster than normal 5V/2A charge technology. The huge battery can be charged within just 3.5 hours. As for the upgraded parts, the Blackview BV9500 Plus now comes with Helio P70 SoC together with the latest Android 9 Pie, offering a smooth multitasking experience.

What’s also new in BV9500 Plus is the waterproof rating up to IP69K, withstanding submersion under 1.8 meters deep water up to 2 hours. Furthermore, it can resist 1450 psi high-pressure and 80ºC high-temperature steam scouring.

The new device is planned to hit the market next week so stay tuned as it will definitely come with an offer! The old model’s production is now over and you can find it online while stock lasts. In the meantime, the BV9700 Pro, BV9600 and BV6100 are on promotion. For more information visit their official website.

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In a post dated yesterday, Xiaomi India revealed it is recruiting 50 fans to join the Mi TV 4A Android 9 Pie Early Access Program. The supported Mi TV 4A models are the 2018 Mi TV 4A 32” and Mi TV 4A 43”.

The update has been long overdue for the TVs which launched with Android TV Marshmallow but Xiaomi explained there are multiple reasons for the delay. One is the chance of a soft brick when updating the ROM (especially one based on Marshmallow) and there is a power cut. Another reason is the Amlogic support issue; a lot of work had to be done to ensure the chipsets supports Android Nougat and above.

Xiaomi also explained that they decided to skip the update to Android Oreo and focus on Android Pie builds instead. This would mean waiting for the Android 9-based images which arrived much later and therefore delayed when the update would be available. However, the advantage is that Mi TV owners will be one of the first in the country to run Android 9 Pie as other manufacturers are releasing new models based on Android 8 Oreo.

If you own either of the two TVs and want to join the early access program, you are required to fill this form. You are also required to have a Telegram account, Mi ID, and state why you want to join the Early Access Program.

(Source)

UP NEXT: Hisense U9e launches as the world’s first “dual-image” TV

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In December, Realme had claimed that it would be rolling out the Android 9 Pie update for its smartphones in first or second quarter of 2019. Today, the company has confirmed through its official forums site that it will be releasing the Android 9 Pie update in June for its smartphones.

In April, the company will be releasing the April 2019 Android security patch for three smartphone such as Realme 1, Realme U1 and Realme 3. In May, the May 2019 Android security patch will be rolled out for phones like Realme 2, Realme 2 Pro and Realme C1.

In June, Realme will be releasing the ColorOS 6 based Android 9 Pie OS for multiple smartphones for Realme 1, Realme 2, Realme C1, Realme 2 Pro and Realme U1. It hasn’t exactly mentioned the order of releasing Pie update for these phones. Also, there is no exact timeline mentioned, but the company promises to release the updates as stated in the forums thread.

Since it is a staged rollout, the aforementioned Realme phones are unlikely to receive the update on the very first day or simultaneously. The company will be releasing the update when it is completely sure they are free from major bugs. It will be posting respective OTA threads with the links to manually download the firmware when they are available.

• Read More: Realme 3 500,000+ units sold in three weeks; Realme Pro 3 debuting in April end?

The recently launched Realme 3 smartphone comes preinstalled with ColorOS 6.0 based Android 9 Pie OS. Also, the upcoming Realme 3 Pro smartphone will come preloaded with it. The ColorOS 6.0 that was announced in November 2018 sports a minimalistic look with white and gradient color backgrounds. It is equipped with AI machine-learning capabilities for saving power and optimized memory usage by freezing background apps. It has been designed for phones with bezel-less design.

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When Vivo’s first pop-up camera phone, the NEX S launched last year, it ran Android 8.1 Oreo out of the box which was actually the latest stable version of Android then.  Android Pie has been out now for more than six months but Vivo is just rolling out the update to the 2018 flagship.

The update which is 2.7GB in size brings a ton of new features and a new user interface. Below are some of the new features:

• Jovi Smart Scene – the Jovi AI assistant will provide useful suggestions and recommendations depending on where you are. So if you are driving or at work, the assistant will be able to tell and provide suggestions and bring up reminders related to your current location.
• Jovi Voice Assistant – the Jovi AI assistant now supports voice commands. Just say the action word followed by your command.
• Game Box – a game mode where you are not interrupted by notifications and calls. There is also a performance mode that improves the speed and performance of supported games.
• iHousekeeper – an improved system and storage cleaning function.
• Camera optimization – photo quality has been improved.
• File Sharing – new interface, supports cross-platform sharing including the transfer of files from iPhones, and the transfer of web pages.
• Simultaneous connection to two Bluetooth devices: You will be able to connect to two audio devices at once and set one of the devices for call audio output but ringtone will be played from both phones.

The Vivo NEX was the first phone to have a pop-up selfie camera. The feature is now available on other phones like the Vivo V15 Pro, the OPPO F11 Pro, the Vivo X27 and the X27 Pro.

READ MORE: Vivo X27 Hands-on Pictures: Fullscreen pop-up camera design on a mid-ranger

The phone has a 6.59-inch Super AMOLED display with a 1080 x 2316 resolution, a Snapdragon 845 processor, 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of storage. For cameras, there is a 12MP + 5MP dual camera combo on the rear while the motorized pop-up selfie camera is an 8MP sensor. Other features of the NEX S include an in-display fingerprint scanner, a 4,000mAh battery, and support for 22.5W fast charging.

(Source)

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Huawei has announced that its EMUI 9 update has begun rolling out to some of its older flagships. These devices include the Mate 9 series (Mate 9, Mate 9 Pro, and Mate 9 Porsche Design) which all originally launched with EMUI 5.0 based on Android Nougat.

The Mate 9 series was announced back in 2016 and came with Nougat pre-installed. They later got updated to EMUI 8.0 based on Android Oreo in 2017 and now they are getting upgraded to Android Pie.

The EMUI 9.0 update is also rolling out to the Huawei P10 and Huawei P10 Plus which also launched with Android Nougat. The Honor V9, Honor 9, and Nova 2s also join the pie party.

If you own any of these devices, all you have to do is go to the Huawei Services app, select service, and then upgrade.

READ MORE: Huawei’s 55W SuperCharge technology will be exclusive to the Mate X for the time being

EMUI 9.0 brings a number of new features. System performance has been improved and application startup times have reduced. It also brings AI features, GPU Turbo, support for face unlock and WeChat fingerprint payment.

(Via)

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The ZTE Axon 9 Pro which launched last year wasn’t as popular as its predecessor, the Axon 7. It also ran stock Android (Android 8.1 Oreo) out of the box instead of ZTE’s MiFavor UI.

Two months after its release, ZTE has begun registration for an Android Pie beta program for users in China that also brings MiFavor 9. Interested participants are invited to sign up here with details such as their IMEI, WeChat ID, and phone number.

Registration for the beta update program began a few weeks ago but it appears no one has received the update yet which is supposed to arrive as an OTA. Nevertheless, we expect the update will bring a bunch of new MiFavor features other than those of Android 9 itself to the Axon 9 Pro.

The Axon 9 Pro was launched at IFA back in August but didn’t go on sale until November. It has a 6.21-inch AMOLED display with a 1080 x 2248 resolution and support for HDR10. It is powered by the Snapdragon 845 which is paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of expandable storage.

READ MORE: “ZTE A2020 Pro” believed to be Axon 10 Pro appears on Geekbench

The phone comes with a 12MP primary rear camera and a 20MP ultra-wide secondary camera. It also has a 20MP selfie camera. The Axon 9 Pro keeps the rear-mounted fingerprint scanner from its predecessor but adds wireless charging and an IP68 rating. It packs a 4,000mAh battery with support for Quick Charge 4+. It also has stereo speakers but is missing an audio jack.

(Via)

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Asus has started receiving the Android 9 Pie for the Asus Zenfone 5Z. The Taiwanese company has announced the Android 9.0 Pie rollout for the Asus Zenfone 5Z. The new update carries various improvements and features for the device. It is a global rollout which may take some time to reach out on each unit.

The update is rolling out over the air in batches and will make it to all devices in upcoming few days. Those who have received the update notification can enjoy the update after downloading it. Moreover, the new OTA build is also not available for download on the Asus website. The latest update brings several enhancements and features of Android 9.0 Pie.

In order to manually check the update, users can head over to the Settings>>About>>Check for update option. Users can check for the update various times within the next several days. Although Asus has not published any specific details related to the update.

We suggest switching to WiFi networks to save carrier cost while downloading the update. Also, make sure to keep your device charged at least upto 60% for smooth installation of the update. During the installation, don’t turn off the device as it may lead to data loss.

Additionally, Asus Zenfone 5Z was launched in July 2018 with Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 SoC and Adreno 630 GPU. It is coupled with 6/8 GB RAM and 64/128/256GB internal storage. Asus Zenfone 5Z hosts a large 6.2-inch HD+ display having 2246 x 1080 pixels resolution. It features 5-magnetic speakers and dual-smart AMP to provide an immersive sound experience while watching or listening songs.

• Read More: Asus ROG Phone is soon expected receive Android 9 Pie update

In the camera department, the device features a 12 MP + 8 MP sensor on the rear side. To shoot beautiful selfies, there’s an 8 MP front camera.

Well, how many of you have started receiving the update?

(Via)

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After confirming the Android 9.0 Pie update for almost every compatible Moto device, the company is preparing to rollout Moto G6 and G6 Play update very soon. After a long wait, Motorola will push the Android Pie update to the respective devices in the upcoming week.

Although, Motorola Brazil has already started rolling out the update to Moto G6 users in Brazil. The wide rollout will take place soon within a couple of weeks. Currently, the update is going through final tests before it starts hitting the devices. As per the official changelog, it will carry various changes and feature additions on the device.

Moto G6 and Moto G6 Play will get all the features of Android 9 Pie such as refined permissions, new gestures, adaptive brightness, improved notifications, native notch support, app actions, and adaptive battery. Moreover, it will feature January Security patch with new security measures. It has even fixed the Google Pay functionality which got compromised in the past.

Well, the good news is that Motorola is in final development stages for Android 9.0 Pie update on Moto G6 and Moto G6 Plus. It will take a few weeks more before it starts rolling out to all the devices.

• Read More: Motorola One receives Android Pie update

Additionally, Motorola plans to roll out Android 9.0 Pie update almost on every Motorola device before Q2 2019. So, compatible Motorola devices will start getting it before Google announce the Android Q in Q2 2019. The Lenovo owned company has already updated various devices to the latest Android version.

(Source)

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HMD Global is one of the top manufacturers when it comes to speed of updates. A large percentage of its phones are already running Android 9 Pie, the latest version of Android. It appears that update may soon arrive for the Nokia 3.1 Plus.

A version of the Nokia 3.1 Plus running Android 9 was seen on Geekbench yesterday. Since the phone is currently still running Android Oreo, this might be an indication that the update to Pie is on the horizon.

The phone just received January’s security update a few days ago. We presume Android Pie will likely be bundled with February’s security update next month.

READ MORE: Nokia X5 Android Pie update in China brings system optimization, camera upgrade and more

The Nokia 3.1 Plus was first announced in India last year. It has a 6.0-inch HD+ display, a MediaTek Helio P22 processor, 2GB/3GB of RAM, and 16GB/32GB of storage. There is a 13MP + 5MP dual camera setup on its rear and an 8MP camera for selfies. It also has a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner and packs a 3,500mAh battery.

(Source, Via)

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At the end of 2018, Vivo had released Android 9 Pie closed beta for few of it smartphones such as Vivo NEX S, NEX A, X21 UD and X21 in China. Since it was a closed beta update, it was made available for limited number of 5,000 users in the home market. With the beginning of year 2019, the Chinese manufacturer has now proclaimed the arrival of open beta update for aforementioned smartphones in the home country.

In order to receive the Android 9 Pie open beta, one needs to enroll for it. Users in China are required to download the official recruitment app from the company and install the latest edition of the FunTouch OS. Owners of Vivo NEX S, NEX A, X21 UD and X21 in China can enroll until Jan. 6. There is no limit on the number of recruits since it is an open beta update. The update will be pushed to the user from Jan. 8.

The size of the Android 9 Pie beta is 2.71 GB. It not only includes the latest version of Android, but also other goodies such as Jovi Smart Scene, Jovi Smart Voice Assistant, Jovi Wisdom Map, improved UI, game box, camera optimizations, and more. Apart from the ones mentioned above, Vivo is yet to confirm on the names of the other phones that will be treated with Android 9.0 Pie update.

• Read More: Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO and Vivo to maintain lead in China in 2019

Vivo had released around 30 smartphones in 2018. Among them, there are many low-budget phones. The Chinese manufacturer is likely to prioritize on the releasing the Android 9 Pie update first for its high-end phones from 2018. The Vivo NEX Dual Display smartphone that was unveiled in December 2018 is the first phone from the company to come preloaded with Android 9 Pie. In India, the Vivo V11 Pro has been one of the most search smartphones in 2018. Hopefully, the Android 9 Pie will be also available for it later this year.

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Samsung has just started rolling out the Android 9 Pie update for Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ flagship smartphones. Through the Samsung Members app, the South Korean company has released the Android Pie update roadmap to reveal when it will be treating 11 of its devices with the latest version of Android.

The Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ are scheduled to receive Android 9 Pie update in January 2019. As mentioned above, Samsung has already begun rolling out the Pie update for Galaxy S9 duo. By January, the carrier variants of the S9 and S9+ may receive the latest Android software. In February, the Galaxy Note 9 will be provided with Android 9 Pie update.

The Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+ and Galaxy Note 8 will be provided with Android 9 Pie update in March. Multiple device such as Galaxy A8 (2018), Galaxy A8+ (2018), Galaxy A7 (2018), Galaxy A9 (2018) and Galaxy Tab S4 10.5 are all planned to receive Android 9 Pie update in April.

In May 2019, Galaxy J series of smartphones such as Galaxy J4, Galaxy J4+, Galaxy J6, Galaxy J6+ as well as Galaxy A8 Star are scheduled to receive Pie update. In July, the older Galaxy J7 (2017) will be provided with Android 9 Pie. The Galaxy J7 Duo will be blessed with the latest Android version in August.

• Read More: Samsung Galaxy A10 with in-display fingerprint scanner and Snapdragon 845 tipped

The Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) and Galaxy Tab S3 9.7 will be updated to Android 9 Pie in September. In October, three tablets such as Galaxy Tab A (2017), Galaxy Tab Active 2 and Galaxy Tab A 10.4 are going to receive the update.

Samsung devices that have already received two major Android upgrades like the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge are not included in the list. Users of the Samsung smartphones and tablets should be aware of the fact that even though the company has released the Android 9 pie update roadmap, the dates may change if the update are not completely ready for release.

(via)

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When ASUS announced the Zenfone 4 in October last year, the phone shipped with Android 7.1.1 Nougat out of the box. ASUS did release an update for Android Oreo for the phone but it seems it isn’t done yet with the phone.

A Zenfone 4 running Android 9 Pie has been seen on Geekbench which means the phone may be getting a second major OS upgrade soon. The variant is the one powered by a Snapdragon 660 processor and not the Snapdragon 630 but we expect the update to be available to both variants.

READ MORE: Asus Zenfone 5 is now finally receiving Android 9 Pie update

The device was benchmarked on the 19th of December but there is no indication that the update will be coming anytime soon. Nevertheless, it should be comforting to owners of the phone that ASUS hasn’t abandoned it yet.

(Source, Via)

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The Redmi Note 5 Pro launched with Android 7.1.2 Nougat out of the box and later got an upgrade to Android 8.1 Oreo about six months ago. Its latest major update brought MIUI 10 but still based on Android Oreo to it. It appears its next major update will be to Android 9 Pie.

We found a couple of Redmi Note 5/Redmi Note 5 Pro phones running Android 9 on Geekbench today. This can only mean Xiaomi is working on an update that brings Android Pie to the phone. When it eventually arrives, it will be the second major Android OS update for the phone which isn’t a common occurrence for Xiaomi phones.

The Redmi Note 5/Redmi Note 5 Pro running Android Pie wasn’t the only thing we found on Geekbench today. We also saw a version of the Redmi Note 5 Pro with a Snapdragon 660 processor. The Redmi Note 5 comes with a Snapdragon 636 processor and even its successor, the Redmi Note 6 Pro is powered by the same processor, so this version with an SDM660 chipset is a first of its kind.

READ MORE: Xiaomi Play retail box leak reveals that the phone will come with free 10GB data

This doesn’t seem to be an error on Geekbench’s part as the base frequency matches those of other Snapdragon 660-powered phones like the Mi 8 Lite and the Mi A2. However, its scores are lower. This version of the Redmi Note 5 Pro also has 3GB of RAM and runs Android 8.1 Oreo.

(Sources: 1, 2, 3)

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Huawei’s EMUI 9 based on Android Pie has been available as a beta for a while. Now a stable update has begun rolling out to some devices.

If you own the Huawei Mate 10, Mate 10 Pro, P20, or P20 Pro and reside in Europe, you should check your phone as the update is already being pushed to these devices. The update is also rolling out to the Honor View 10, Honor 10, and Honor Play. There is even a report that the Honor View 10 is receiving the update in India.

EMUI 9.0 not only brings Android 9 Pie but also brings some new features. There is a new gesture navigation and also HiVision which is just like Google Lens but with some neat tricks of its own such as calorie identification in foods. The overall UI has also changed, system response speed is said to have increased by 25.8%, and there is now support for multiple back ups to various storage devices.

READ MORE: Huawei 99 Yuan ($14) battery replacement offer extended to include more models

The rollout is gradual and may take a few days before it hits your device.

(Source)

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LG has a pretty bad record when it comes to updating its phones. While other manufacturers have announced an Android Pie update schedule and have even started updating some of their devices, LG has more or less kept mute. Now, in what can be termed a surprise but which actually isn’t, the LG G7 One has started receiving the Android Pie update.

The LG G7 One is an Android One phone, a first for LG, which explains why it is getting the update before other LG phone since it runs stock Android. The 812MB update has started rolling out in Canada and brings Android Pie along with November’s security patch.

The LG G7 One was announced in August alongside the LG G7 Fit. It has a 6.1-inch QHD+ notched display. Unlike the Lg G7 which has a Snapdragon 845 processor, the G7 One is powered by the Snapdragon 835 which is paired with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. A MicroSD card slot will let you add up to 2TB of external storage.

READ MORE: LG will reportedly showcase its foldable smartphone during CES 2019

There is a 16MP f/1.6 camera on its rear and an 8MP camera inside the notch. It also has Hi-Fi Quad DAC, an IP68-rating MIL-STD-810G certification, NFC, Bluetooth 5.0 and a USB type-C port. The LG G7 One packs a 3,000mAh battery with support for Quick Charge 3.0 and wireless charging (US version). It also has a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner.

For the rest of LGs phone, we have no idea when the update will arrive.

(Source)

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Xiaomi’s new strategy of launching a budget-friendly flagship phone under the new Pocophone brand name has worked in favor of the company since the Poco F1 has received stupendous market reception in India. The handset was launched with MIUI 9.6 flavored Android 8.1 Oreo OS. It will be one of the first Xiaomi phones to be treated Android 9 Pie update along with MIUI 10. Folks at XDA Developers has come across the first MIUI 10 Global beta build with Android 9 Pie OS for the Poco F1 smartphone. Xiaomi is yet to confirm on the arrival of this beta build.

The publication has shared the following link to download the Android 9 Pie-based MIUI 10 beta build. As it can be seen in the below image, the Xiaomi Poco F1 running on Android 9 and MIUI 10 Global 8.10.30 beta. It also includes Android security patch for the month of October.

The new ROM can be installed by flashing it through the MIUI Updater app. To do so, one needs to download the ROM from the above link and then create a new folder with download_rom folder on Poco F1. Transfer the downloaded ROM to the created folder and then perform a data backup of the important files and folders on the device.

To install the Android 9 Pie-based MIUI 10 beta build, Poco F1 users are required to navigate to Settings > About phone > System update > Choose update package and then navigate to the folder where the MIUI 10 update file is present and then select it. The MIUI 10 update process will continue on its own and may take a maximum time of around 30 minutes to install it.

The publication has further stated that migrating from MIUI 9 Global Stable to the new beta build will result in loss of data. Hence, it is advisable to perform a data backup before installing the new software.

The Chinese manufacturer has promised that the Poco F1 will be blessed with Android Q update in 2019. Also, the handset is expected to soon receive an update that will bring support for Widevine L1 for HD streaming content from Netflix and Amazon Prime videos.

• Read More: Xiaomi explains its slider design on the Mi Mix 3, Plus unboxing pictures

The Xiaomi Poco F1 has a notched IPS LCD screen of 6.26 inches that supports 18.7:9 aspect ratio and FHD+ resolution. The Snapdragon 845 chipset is at the helm of the device.

The notch of the smartphone is equipped with a 20-megapixel front-facing camera and an IR sensor for face unlock. The back panel of the phone is equipped with 12-megapixel + 5-megapixel dual camera setup. It is packed with a 4,000mAh battery and carries support for 18W charging through USB-C. It also features a microSD card slot and a fingerprint scanner. It can be availed in variants like 6 GB RAM + 64 GB /128 GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. In India, it is available with an enticing starting price of Rs. 20,999 (~$283).

(source)

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HMD Global’s Chief Product Officer, Juho Sarvikas, has announced that the Android Pie update for the Nokia 6.1 has begun rolling out. The announcement was made on Twitter a short while ago.

The manufacturer had promised at the launch of the Nokia 7.1 that it would update the Nokia 6.1 and Nokia 6.1 Plus to Android Pie this month. However, while the Nokia 6.1 Plus got Android Pie beta, the Nokia 6.1 remained on Android Oreo. It was later revealed that there would be no beta program for the phone and just a direct update. Today, it has fulfilled its promise and pushed out the update.

Android 9 Pie: now available on Nokia 6.1! AI-power your Nokia 6.1 as it gets smarter, faster and adapts as you use it. We are serving with a side of cool refreshed imaging expereince including Google Lens integration pic.twitter.com/et5fkKhbst

— Juho Sarvikas (@sarvikas) October 30, 2018

If you own the Nokia 6.1, you should check for the update now. It is 1462.6MB in size and below is the complete changelog:

• New system navigation, settings menu, and notifications
• Adaptive Battery power prioritization for users’ most commonly used apps/services
• Adaptive and optimized brightness levels
• Predictive Applications Actions
• New camera v9.0 with new UI, Google Lens and Google motion integration

For Nokia 6.1 Plus users, Mr. Sarvikas says the Android Pie update is coming and you should get it before the end of the month even though we there is just about 24 hours left.

Month is not over yet, still a good 24h left to keep our promise and deliver it in October. A lot can happen in that time like this guy knows pic.twitter.com/AKzpsZfZm1

— Juho Sarvikas (@sarvikas) October 30, 2018

READ MORE: These Nokia wireless chargers are probably for the Nokia 9 PureView

The Nokia 6.1 was announced in January. It has a 5.5-inch FHD screen, a Snapdragon 630 processor, up to 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. It also has a 16MP rear camera, an 8MP selfie cameras, a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner and packs a 3,000mAh battery.

(Source)

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The Nokia 6.1 Plus received Android Pie beta two weeks ago. This prompted owners of the Nokia 6.1 to inquire when it would be their turn since both devices are scheduled to get updated this month. According to a Nokia executive, there will be no beta version of Android Pie for the Nokia 6.1.

In a response to the question on Twitter, Juho Sarvikas, the product manager for HMD Global, revealed that they will skip beta labs on the Nokia 6.1 and roll out Pie soon. So expect the update to Android Pie soon.

Next. We will skip betalabs on Nokia 6.1 and roll out soon

— Juho Sarvikas (@sarvikas) October 20, 2018

The Nokia 6.1 has a 5.5-inch FHD screen, a Snapdragon 630 processor, 3GB/4GB of RAM and 32GB/64GB of storage. It has a 16MP f/2.0 rear camera and an 8MP front-facing camera. It also has a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner and a 3,000mAh battery.

READ MORE: Geekbench listing reveals Nokia 8.1 specs: Snapdragon 710, Android Pie

In other news, the Digital Wellbeing app is already available in beta preview for the Nokia 7 Plus and the Nokia 6.1 Plus running Android Pie. So, you may want to check that out too.

(Source, Via)

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One of the selling points of the new Nokia smartphones released since HMD Global took control of the brand is the regular updates. The Nokia 7 Plus already got updated to Android Pie and the Nokia 6.1 Plus got a beta update last week. Now info has surfaced regarding the Nokia 5.1 Plus‘ Android Pie update schedule.

HMD Global already confirmed the Nokia 6.1 Plus and Nokia 6.1 will get updated to Android 9 this month and the Nokia 8 Sirocco and the Nokia 8 will follow in November. However, no info was revealed about the other smartphones.

Someone decided to ask the company’s Chief Product Officer, Juho Sarvikas if the Nokia 5.1 Plus would get Android Pie before the end of the year and his reply says it all. According to Mr. Sarvikas, he “would be surprised if it does not”.

So if you own the Nokia 5.1 Plus, you should get your slice of Android Pie before the end of the year. As the weeks roll by, more info regarding the update should surface.

The Nokia 5.1 Plus was launched back in July but first as the Nokia X5 in China. It has a notch like the Nokia X6/Nokia 6.1 Plus but a 5.86-inch HD+ display. It is powered by MediaTek’s Helio P60 processor with up to 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage.

READ MORE: Nokia 2.1V is a Verizon exclusive version of the Nokia 2.1

A 13MP + 5MP dual camera combo sits on the rear of the phone and an 8MP sensor sits within the notch. Under its glass back is a 3060mAh battery. It also has a fingerprint scanner.

(Source, Via)

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At the Nokia 7.1 launch event last week, HMD Global promised that the Nokia 6.1 Plus and Nokia 6.1 will get updated to Android 9 pie this month. In keeping to its promised timeline, the manufacturer has released a beta version of Android Pie for the Nokia 6.1 Plus.

The announcement was made today by Juho Sarvikas, the chief product officer at HMD Global.

Hungry for pie? If you're a Nokia 6.1 Plus user, you'll be happy to know that Android 9 is now available to test in #Nokiamobilebetalabs. https://t.co/siaoX5xEmR #Nokiamobile #Android9 pic.twitter.com/0oiLr0NI09

— Juho Sarvikas (@sarvikas) October 9, 2018

The update brings the new system navigation, settings menu, adaptive battery, and also October’s security patch. If you are interested in joining the beta program, head to the Nokia beta labs page here and sign up.

The Nokia 6.1 Plus was launched a few months ago, first as the Nokia X6 in China before heading to India as the Nokia 6.1 Plus. It has a 5.8-inch 1080 x 2280 display, a Snapdragon 636 processor, 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage.

READ MORE: Nokia phone with a “Mega Display” coming soon, might be the Nokia 7.1 Plus

There is a 16MP + 5MP dual camera combo in its rear and a 16MP front-facing camera that sits within the notch in its screen. The Nokia 6.1 Plus has a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Its battery capacity is 3060mAh and there is support for Quick Charge 3.0.

Seeing as the Nokia 6.1 Plus has gotten a beta version of Android Pie, the Nokia 6.1 should be next in line.

(Source, Via)

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A stable update should soon arrive for the OnePlus 6 but first OnePlus has released a new beta version for the phone. The open beta 3 update which is based on Android Pie brings a number of fixes and improvements.

Below is the changelog for the new update:

System

• Fixed stability issues with ambient display
• Improved stability for face unlock and fingerprint scanner
• Added support to launch google assistant or other third party assistant app by holding the power button for 0.5 seconds

Parallel Apps

• Added support for more apps (Telegram, Discord, IMO, Uber, OLA) in parallel apps.

OnePlus Switch v2.1.0

• Added manual connection method if unable to connect the Switch app with QR code on the old device.
• Supported backup and recovery for application data including the homescreen, lock screen, and app layout.
• Bug fixes and support for more Android models.

Known Issues

• Some applications may not function as expected when running on this beta version.
• Google Pay service is not working.

READ MORE: OnePlus’ co-founder confirms the OnePlus 6T won’t have an audio jack

As you can see, there are still some issues. This is expected since this is a beta version of the software. The update is 209MB in size for those already running a beta version. If you are on a stable version and want to install the beta version, head to the source link below.

(Source, Via)

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The POCOPHONE F1 is one of the most talked about Android phones released this year even though it just launched last month. What it has going for it is its awesome combination of mid-range price and flagship features. Even with its low price tag, the Poco F1 as it is known in India is a well-built device as confirmed by JerryRigEverything’s durability test.

The phone comes with MIUI 9.6 based on Android 8.1 Oreo out of the box but it appears an update to Android 9 Pie isn’t far off as a unit running the latest version of Android has been spotted on Geekbench.

This version of the POCOPHONE F1 was benchmarked yesterday and the benchmark result reveals it has 6GB of RAM. The scores are lower than that of the version running Android 8.1 Oreo which means there is still a lot of optimization to be done.

Nevertheless, we believe an update should hit devices in the near future. We do not know if this update will come bundled with a stable version of MIUI 10 or will come separately.

The POCOPHONE F1 has a 6.18” FHD+ display, a Snapdragon 845 processor and 6GB/8GB of RAM. It packs 64GB/128GB/256GB of expandable storage which can be expanded by a MicroSD card slot which doubles as a second SIM tray.

READ MORE: Xiaomi Mi 8 Screen Fingerprint Edition in gold seems to have been teased

For optics, it has dual rear cameras (12MP + 5MP) and a 20MP front-facing camera. It also has infrared face unlock and a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner. There is a Type-C port at the bottom and a 3.5mm audio jack at the top. A 4,000mAh battery with Quick Charge 4.0 support powers the device. The POCOPHONE F1 also comes with stereo speakers and is splash resistant. Price starts at €330.

(Sources: 1, 2 | Via)

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A fresh GFXBench listing of the Samsung Galaxy S9+ has surfaced today. What’s interesting about the listing is that the handset has been spotted with Android 9 Pie OS.

Google had released the retail edition of the Android 9.0 Pie update on Aug. 6. Some of the non-Google devices that were enrolled beta testing program of the Android 9 Pie OS such as Nokia 7 Plus, Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S and Essential Phone have already received the new update. The upcoming Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL phones that are expected to go official on Oct. 9 will be the first phones to arrive with Android 9 Pie OS preinstalled. Now that the GFXBench listing of the Galaxy S9+ with Android Pie has surfaced today, it appears that Samsung could be testing the latest version of Android for it.

Samsung is known for heavily customized Android OS with its Samsung Experience UI. Since the benchmarking platform is unable to detect Samsung’s custom ROM, it is mentioned as “INVALID Android Samsung-ss Edition.” The South Korean has been always slow at rolling out OS updates.

Read More: Samsung Galaxy J2 Core is the company’s first Android Go smartphone

The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ are the first Samsung phones with Project Treble support that promises faster Android software updates. Hence, the Galaxy S9 duo could soon receive Android 9 Pie OS upgrade. Once the OS update arrives to these phones, the Note 9 could be next in line to get treated with the new OS update.

(source|via)

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Just a little over a week after Android 9 Pie got an official release, Google has announced Android 9 Pie (Go Edition), a successor to Android Oreo (Go Edition).

Last year, Google announced Android (Go Edition) for entry-level devices and first-time Android users. The first Android (Go Edition) smartphone, the Nokia 1 was announced at MWC 2018 and hit markets in April. Now there are close to 200 Android Go devices from other manufacturers such as ASUS, Motorola, Blackview, Doogee, Micromax, and Itel.

Android 9 Pie (Go Edition) will come with a bunch of new features and improvements. For example, Android 9 Pie (Go Edition) will take up less space on devices, providing an additional 500MB of storage right out of the box. Devices running the new version will also have faster boot times, verified boot as part of improved security features. It will also have a dashboard for tracking and monitoring data consumption.

All of the above features are expected to improve performance and security, provide more space, and make data management easier. Google has also redesigned the Go apps and added new features.

• Google Go: reads aloud web pages and highlights each word so users can follow along.

• YouTube Go: gets a gallery mode for downloaded videos and uses less data.

• Maps Go: provides turn-by-turn navigation
• Assistant Go: now supports Spanish, Brazillian Portuguese, and Indonesian. Users can also use it to control Bluetooth, camera, flashlight, and add reminders.
• Android Messages and Phone App: the size of the messaging app has been reduced by almost half and the phone app now has caller ID and spam detection.

READ MORE: These six Sony phones will receive Android Pie starting September

Google says the first set of devices with Android Pie (Go Edition) will arrive this fall. With the way Google puts it, it doesn’t appear as if existing Android Oreo (Go Edition) devices will be updated.

(Source, Via)

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On Monday, Google had introduced Android 9 Pie as the latest version of Android OS. On the very same day, Xiaomi confirmed that the Mi MIX 2S will be its first smartphone to receive the latest MIUI 10 based Android 9 Pie. In fact, soon after Android 9 was made official, some of the users of Mi MIX 2S received MIUI 10 8.8.7 flavored closed beta version of Android 9 Pie in China through an OTA update. By this, Xiaomi has become first company to release a custom UI flavored Android 9. This shows how quickly Xiaomi has worked to rollout MIUI 9 Android Pie for Mi MIX 2S.

During the Google I/O 2018 event that was held in May this year, the search engine giant had made the developer preview edition of Android P available to multiple non-Google devices such as Nokia 7 Plus, Sony Xperia XZ2, Xiaomi Mi MIX 2S, Oppo R15 Pro, Vivo X21, Essential PH‑1, and OnePlus 6. Google has already rolled out Android 9 Pie to its Pixel devices. Apart from the Pixel devices, the aforementioned non-Google devices will be the first ones to be treated with stable version of Android 9.

In order to upgrade to the global closed beta edition of Android P, Mi MIX 2S users can enroll for it through the MIUI official forum page or app. The update tags along MIUI 10 developer ROM. The Mi MIX 2S is one of the first smartphones to support Google ARCore. Also, Xiaomi has managed to build good relationship with Google since the past two years.

Last year, Xiaomi had launched the Mi A1 as its first ever Android One smartphone in partnership with Google. The Mi A2 Android One that was launched recently is now being made available in wider markets. Since Mi A1 and Mi A2 are Android One phones, these devices will be soon upgraded to Android Pie.

Android 9 Pie comes with plenty of AI features such as AI powered Adaptive battery and Brightness which allows the phone to learn the usage pattern of the user and accordingly adjust the brightness level and battery consumption. App Actions is also another AI driven feature that can predict the actions of the user based on the context. Also, Android Pie includes dedicated settings to handle or hide the display notch. It also equipped with different gestures for navigation. In addition to the features of Android 9 Pie, the new MIUI 10 brings improves the phone’s capabilities to capture portrait shots. Also, MIUI 10 also features its own version of gestures-based navigation.

Read More: Xiaomi’s POCOPHONE F1 specs and price leak online

Xiaomi has officially confirmed that MIUI 9 based Android 9 Pie will be also coming to other Xiaomi phones. However, the company is yet to confirm on a release schedule for rolling out the latest Android version to its devices.

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Nokia 7 Plus is one of the non-Google devices that was provided with developer preview version of Android P in May. Hence, it is expected to the first Nokia phone to receive the stable version of Android 9 Pie. Rumors have claimed that it could be available to the Nokia 7 Plus by the end of this month. A fresh report on Nokia Power User states that an Indian edition of Nokia 7 Plus has received the stable version of Android 9 Pie.

The following screenshots that were shared by an Indian user of Nokia 7 Plus confirms the arrival of stable version of Android 9 Pie. The update weighs 1,173 MB. HMD Global is yet to make an official announcement on the release of Android 9 Pie for Nokia 7 Plus. The new OS brings along new features Adaptive battery and brightness that relies on AI to adjust battery consumption and display brightness. Through AI, Android P Pie can predict the actions of its users. It also features gestures-based navigation.

Not only Nokia 7 Plus, but also other Nokia phones that belong to the Android One program are expected to get the Android 9 Pie update by fall. Hence, devices such as Nokia 8 Sirocco, Nokia 7 Plus, Nokia 6 (2018), Nokia 6.1 Plus (Nokia X6), Nokia 5.1 Plus (Nokia X5), Nokia 5.1, Nokia 3.1 and Nokia 2.1 are expected to receive Android 9 upgrade soon.

Read More: HMD Global schedules an event in India on August 21, expected to launch Nokia 6.1 Plus

In the recent past, the Finnish firm had also confirmed that it will be rolling out Android P update to all the smartphones that it has released so far since they all fall in the 2-year time bracket for OS update set by Google. Hence, Android 9 Pie will be also coming to Nokia 8, Nokia 7, Nokia 6, Nokia 5, Nokia 3, Nokia 2 and Nokia 1 that were released in 2017. However, these may not receive the Android P update before Nokia’s Android One devices.

Have you received Android 9 Pie update on your Nokia 7 Plus handset? Let us know about it so that readers can be provided with updated information.

(source)

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Google officially announced the arrival of Android 9 Pie and the company is already making it available to Pixel devices. After the Pixel devices, the search engine giant is expected to make the Android 9 Pie to devices that are listed under Android One program. Since HMD Global had confirmed at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2018 that all Nokia smartphones above Nokia 2 will join the Android One program, many Nokia phones are expected to receive Android 9 Pie update earlier than other smartphones from other companies. Today, through an official blog post, Google has confirmed that all the Android One devices and other phones that have joined the Android P Beta program will be treated with Android 9 Pie by the end of the fall.

All the Nokia Android One phones that are slated to receive the Android 9 Pie update Nokia 8 Sirocco, Nokia 7 Plus, Nokia 6 (2018), Nokia 6.1 Plus (Nokia X6), Nokia 5.1 Plus (Nokia X5), Nokia 5.1, Nokia 3.1 and Nokia 2.1. Among these, the Nokia 7 Plus is expected to get the final Android P update by the end of this month since it is one of the smartphones that have been enrolled in the Android P beta program.

Read More: Proof of Snapdragon 710-powered “Nokia Phoenix” found in metadata

Apart from Android One phones by HMD Global, other Nokia phones are also confirmed to receive Android P update. Around two months ago, Neil Broadley who is the global market manager of HMD Global had said that the Android P will be made available to entire Nokia portfolio. These means that other older Nokia phone such as Nokia 8, Nokia 7, Nokia 6, Nokia 5, Nokia 3, Nokia 2 and Nokia 1 will be also treated with Android 9 Pie. However, as mentioned above, Nokia Android One phones will be the first ones to be blessed with Android Pie.

(source|via)

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