If you lose your iPhone or buy an upgrade, you could reasonably expect to be up and running after an hour, presuming you backed up your prior model. Your Apple stuff all comes over, sure, but most of your third-party apps will still be signed in.

Doing the same swap with an Android device is more akin to starting three-quarters fresh. After one or two Android phones, you learn to bake in an extra hour of rapid-fire logging in to all your apps. Password managers, or just using a Google account as your authentication, are a godsend.

That might change relatively soon, as Google has announced a new Restore Credentials feature, which should do what it says in the name. Android apps can "seamlessly onboard users to their accounts on a new device," with the restore keys handled by Android's native backup and restore process. The experience, says Google, is "delightful" and seamless. You can even get the same notifications on the new device as you were receiving on the old.

The two ways a Restore Key (i.e., user login) can be passed between old and new devices: cloud backup or direct device connection.

Google

 

Google's two-part flowchart for setting up restore keys that automatically come back on a new device.

Google

 

Google notes that there is "no user interaction required" on its flowchart showing signing in on one device, backing it up to the cloud, and having that key come back when setting up the new device. There is, of course, a direct device-to-device option for manually moving over app restore keys.

Android developers will need to implement a "BackupAgent" if they want to enable a seamless phone-to-phone experience, as detailed in the docs. Even without action on their part, apps should pick up an existing Restore Key when first launched on the new phone.

Apple's iOS devices have had a seamless credential transfer for so long that it's hard to pinpoint exactly when it was first available (prove me wrong, commenters). It's very much in Android's interest to reduce the friction of setting up a new phone deeply hooked into Google rather than inviting inquiries into the Cupertino-based alternatives. It's also a quiet boon to anybody who does a full reset on their phone, whether by choice or out of frustration.

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In a report last month, it was tipped that due to the increase in the cost of the chipset, Samsung may increase the prices of its devices. Now, a new leak has emerged from China on Weibo (via GSMArena) suggesting that the news about the price hike, specifically for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, could indeed be on the horizon. Notably, the Galaxy S25 Ultra's bill of materials (BoM) is at least $110 over the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

It is also suggested that Samsung, like many OEMs, is interested in higher profits, and thus the price of the Galaxy S25 Ultra could reach a new high in many regions across the globe. However, the price of the device in China is speculated to remain the same, largely due to increased competition from the Chinese players offering flagship devices at much lower prices.

Of course, this is just based on a rumor, and Samsung theoretically has two options: either to absorb the increase in the cost of the chipset and other components or simply increase the price of the device. The second option seems more likely, meaning interested buyers may have to pay a premium to purchase Samsung's top-of-the-line flagship next year.

However, it isn't like you won't be getting many upgrades over the current Galaxy S24 Ultra. Samsung is expected to introduce frame interpolation technology to allow Galaxy S25 Ultra to double the frame rate for games.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is also tipped to feature rounded corners and minimized bezels. The cameras on the phone are also expected to witness an upgrade, and of course, you will have new colors to choose from. Satellite connectivity is also another feature expected to be available with the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

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Telegram is pushing a new 2.0 update for its in-app “mini-apps” that allows them to run full screen, enables developers to add subscription plans, allows gift sending from mini-apps, lets you add the apps to your homescreen, and more.

 

Full-screen mini-apps, including games such as Doom, can run in either portrait or landscape orientations inside Telegram and include “expanded gestures and interfaces” to support more gaming genres. Like native mobile apps, mini-apps can now read your device’s processor and RAM information to optimize performance and support gyro controls.

 

Add mini-apps to your homescreen.

GIF: Telegram

 

Telegram’s additions show the company’s efforts to build an all-in-one super app like China’s WeChat, which have largely been impossible elsewhere due to policies from app store owners like Apple and Google.

 

Telegram mini-apps now also include features like the ability to generate downloadable documents and files, enable device location for things such as weather and mapping, and let developers monetize mini-apps with subscriptions (paid for by in-app Telegram Stars).

 

You can generate AI music in this app and then download it to the iOS Files app.

GIF: Telegram

 

Finally, the sizable update also includes the ability to share media and referral codes from mini-apps to any chat, developers can customize loading screens, and premium users can set emoji statuses from inside mini-apps.

 

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Reportedly, Google is working on the Pixel Tablet 2 with upgraded specs and also an official keyboard cover. We also have information about some of the specifications of the upcoming tablet. Notably, the official keyboard case for the Pixel Tablet 2 will attach to the tablet via pogo pins on the back, allowing it to prop up for convenient use.

Under the hood, the Pixel Tablet 2 is also speculated to get some upgraded hardware. The device is said to launch with upgraded cameras. While there is no specific information about the cameras, the device may offer better processing and include new camera features.

More importantly, the Pixel Tablet 2 may come with an upgraded Tensor chipset. The current Pixel Tablet uses the Tensor G2 chipset, and the new version could be the Tensor G4 or even the Tensor G5, depending on its release date. Either chipset would make the Pixel Tablet 2 eligible for seven years of updates and enable support for display output.

On the software side, the Pixel Tablet 2 could launch with Android 15 or even Android 16 out of the box, which could bundle even more new features. According to sources (via Android Authority), Google is unlikely to change the design of the Pixel Tablet 2, and it will more or less remain similar to the original Pixel Tablet.

Early prototypes of the Pixel Tablet 2 show the cameras and power buttons on the left, the volume rockers on the top left, and the third mic beside the camera instead of on the right side. The top and bottom bezels may be trimmed down for a better look.

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It's quite common these days for websites and apps to ask for email addresses just to give access to their content. However, despite users being hesitant to trust the app, they have to provide their email address. This might soon change, as Google is working on a feature called "Shielded Email."

The evidence of this feature was discovered in the latest Google Play Services 24.45.33 release. Upon digging the APK, a whole set of strings related to the "Shielded Email" was spotted.

Generated email addresses
 

Shielded Email
 

Cancel
 

Use address
 

Emails forward to ^1. To control spam, you can turn off forwarding at any time in your Google Account. Learn more about Shielded Email.
 

Keep your email address private with Shielded Email
 

Use Shielded Email?
 

Use an email address created for this app. This can protect you from online tracking and data breaches.
 

Use an email address created for this app. Emails will forward to ^1
 

Use Shielded Email
 

Try again
 

Something went wrong. Please report the issue to go/sme-bugs. Error: ^1
 

Progress indicator
 

@string/common_refresh

From the code, we get a good idea of how the new email alias system would work. Using the "Shielded Email" feature, you will be able to create a one-time email letting you keep your main email private from apps. This will, in turn, reduce the online activities that an app can track, and also protect against private information from getting leaked, caused by the insecure security system of the app.

For now, it is unclear how the feature will be implemented and also when the feature will arrive for all users.

Source: Android Authority

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The official Gemini app for iOS is compatible with all iPhones running iOS 16.0 or later and supports the following languages:

English, Arabic, Bengali, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Marathi, Norwegian Bokmål, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, Tamil, Telugu, Thai, Traditional Chinese, Turkish, Ukrainian, Vietnamese.

The Gemini iOS app provides access to both free and Gemini Advanced features. A Gemini Advanced subscription unlocks Google's latest and most powerful model, Gemini Live, along with features like Gemini for Gmail and Docs. Gemini Live offers a more seamless voice experience for brainstorming ideas, exploring new topics, and more. Gemini iOS users can try Gemini Advanced with a one-month free trial available within the app.

Users with a work Google account that lacks access to Gemini Advanced can still access the Gemini mobile app on iOS if their Workspace administrator has enabled access to both Gemini Apps and Google Assistant.

You can download the official Google Gemini app from the Apple App Store and use it if your Google account's age is set to 13 years or older.

The release of the dedicated Gemini app for iOS marks a significant step in Google's efforts to make its AI technology more accessible to over a billion iOS users. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, the Gemini app may become a popular AI tool among iOS users.

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However, it appears that Google just wanted to add a finishing touch to the Pixel 5a before fully ending support for it. According to a Reddit user, Various-Village-3536, the Pixel 5a has received the new software update with the model number AP2A.240805.005.S4.

It is quite an interesting update because, as reported, even after installation, the security patch remains in August 2024. However, the build number says AP2A.240805.005.S4, Nov 2024. In the absence of a changelog, it is uncertain if the update bumps the security to patch to November 2024 or not.

Thankfully, a Redditor delved into the update and found out the notable changes this final update brings for the Google Pixel 5a:

- crash fix for control of adaptive / brightness and screen timeout settings when user restrictions against settings changes is involved

 

- when media player notification closed but not as a result of user interaction dismissing it, don't tell the media app that it was the user who dismissed

 

- stability fix in Bluetooth routing when address not set

 

- apparently at one point they may have looked into including 2024-09-05 security patches in this sunset update too but later turned around and removed it from scope of the update

Since the previous update, which introduced the August 2024 security patch arrived with version number AP2A.240805.005, and this one is labeled AP2A.240805.005.S4, it appears to be a minor update, at best. If you are still rocking a Pixel 5a and the device has picked up the update, then do let us know in the comments below the changes, if you can spot one.

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Thanks to an APK teardown, Android Authority has found a new widget in the works called “Home Summary.” This isn’t just any widget—it’s likely using AI to give you an instant overview of your home, like a mini-report right on your screen. Instead of opening the app and browsing through everything, this widget would let you see your home’s main details at a glance, which might include updates on temperature, lighting, or even device status.

This AI-powered summary could be helpful, especially for those who want the app to keep them in the loop without all the back-and-forth checking.

The Google Home app has really stepped it up lately, making it way easier to manage your smart home. It’s not just a simple control hub anymore; it’s now more customizable and intuitive. New features let you organize your devices by grouping them into “Spaces,” so similar items like lights, cameras, and climate controls are neatly categorized—much simpler to find and manage at a glance.

You can now check multiple Nest camera feeds from the app, which makes keeping an eye on things a lot smoother. There’s also better support for smart locks and other connected devices.

Android users are getting some visual perks, too. The app now supports Material You theming, syncing colors with your wallpaper, making everything look more cohesive across your device. Upcoming features like the long-awaited search bar are a big relief, making it easier to find your smart home devices quickly.

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On Thursday, it was reported that law enforcement officials were puzzled by iPhones in storage suddenly rebooting on their own. Initially, the cause was a mystery, leaving officials guessing why they were being locked out. However, according to 404 Media, experts have started piecing together the reason.

According to Dr.-Ing. Jiska Classen from the Hasso Plattner Institute, Apple added an "inactivity reboot" feature in iOS and iPadOS 18.1. This was confirmed in her tweet after 404 Media shared the story, showing screenshots of what seems to be the relevant code.

In a private group chat for law enforcement and forensic experts, Christopher Vance from Magnet Forensics confirmed, "We found code in iOS and iPadOS 18 and above that triggers an inactivity timer. When this timer runs out, the device reboots, moving from an AFU state to a BFU state." AFU, or “After First Unlock,” means the phone has been unlocked once since it was turned on, making it easier for law enforcement to access. BFU, or “Before First Unlock,” makes it much harder for forensic tools to crack the device.

One law enforcement expert shared that the reboot timer doesn’t rely on network or charging status—just the inactivity period.

This change in iOS and iPadOS is the latest move in the ongoing tug-of-war between phone makers like Apple, aiming to protect user data, and law enforcement seeking access to data on seized devices. Initially, police believed the reboots were due to seized iPhones not being on a cellular network or, bizarrely, iOS and iPadOS 18 devices triggering other nearby iPhones to reboot. But experts now say the timer-based reboot seems to be the actual cause.

Experts like Dr.-Ing. Jiska Classen sees this as a great move from Apple. Sure, most people won’t ever have their phones under forensic analysis, but way more will deal with theft—and this protects their data in both situations.

Law enforcement, however, isn’t thrilled. Vance from Magnet Forensics advised his group chat to collect data from AFU iOS and iPadOS 18 devices as quickly as possible, saying, “It’s crucial to get data from your AFU devices with iOS and iPadOS 18 as soon as you can.”

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As the Google app is a popular portal for searching the web for Android users and delivers a personalized content news feed referred to as Google Discover, it has sparked concern among those who noticed the new links.

What are these mysterious search.app links?

On November 6, 2024, Google rolled out its an Android version 15.44.27.28.arm64 of its app. Around the same time, the company also rolled out Chrome (Android) updates [1, 2] "to a small percentage of users."

Ever since then, links viewed in Google's in-app Chromium browser, when shared externally, are being prepended with a "search.app" domain.

BleepingComputer noticed the behaviour shortly after updating our Google app and we admit, the sight of a mysterious domain left us alarmed at first. Was our device compromised by adware?

Our concerns are echoed by other users on Reddit this week.

"Recently (few days ago), I noticed that each link shared from the Google in-app web browser uses the 'search.app' domain," asked Reddit user danilopiazza.

"For example, trying to share the link to the Reddit front Page, I get: https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.reddit.com%2F&utm_campaign=...&utm_source=..."

"Is this a new feature from the Google app?"

A reader responded, "It seems like it. I'm getting this too. At first I thought I was somehow infected with some kind of malware, or somehow some setting unbeknownst to me got changed."

Similar posts have emerged from others.

BleepingComputer observed links being shared via social media posts on X and Facebook via Google's Android app this week are bearing the "search.app" domain too:

We observed some older posts (from June 2024) on social media with search.app links which had a rather different URL structure, e.g. https://search[.]app/ddc8Ap3W8nySXJ7bA

Is search.app safe?

Put simply, search.app is a URL redirector domain, much like t.co used by X (formerly Twitter), Google's g.co, or Meta's m.me.

Prepending links with "https://search.app?link=" would give Google enhanced visibility into how links are being externally shared by the Google app users and who are clicking on these links (i.e. referrers).

In addition to collecting analytics, by placing itself between users and external links by using the "search.app" domain, Google would now have the ability to block traffic to phishing or hacked domains, should a website go rogue, or in the event that users are mass-sharing questionable content with each other (such as a scam site).

In our tests, navigating to search.app directly took us to an "Invalid Dynamic Link" page with a Firebase logo.

Firebase was acquired in 2014 by Google and has since become "Google's mobile development platform that empowers you to quickly build and grow your app."

We noticed a similar screen when navigating to Google's another domain: https://search.app.goo.gl/

Ironically, Firebase Dynamic Links are deprecated and set to be shut down by August 2025.

WHOIS records for both search.app and goo.gl show Google LLC as the registrant organization and MarkMonitor as the registrar.

SSL certificate and hosting shared by over a hundred domains

After publishing this piece, multiple BleepingComputer readers have pointed out an anomaly with the TLS certificate issued for the 'search.app' domain.

To add confusion, search.app's certificate has the Common Name (CN) set to fallacni.com, a French language website that claims to help you "find your national identity card."

BleepingComputer further noticed that the same SSL certificate is in use by more than a hundred domains, shown below, which are hosted on the same Firebase server (IP address 199.36.158.100).

It is possible that this due to the use of SSL/TLS technologies like Server Name Indication (SNI) which make it possible for multiple domains to be served over HTTPS on a shared hosting server, but certainly seems irregular.

For comparison, the certificate of Google's search.app.goo.gl has its CN set to 'misc-sni.google.com' and is hosted at IP address, 216.58.212.206.

While thus far, the search.app redirector URLs appears to be safe and officially operated by Google, the sheer lack of documentation surrounding the domain is odd, as is the lack of its mention in public changelogs of Google's open source projects, such as Android or Chromium.

The rollout of the app updates is bound to alarm even more users in the coming days who may wonder if their device is behaving erratically or has been compromised by malware.

Is this is Google's attempt at imitating Apple News which prepends links to external stories with https://apple.news?

In the past, Google Chrome's use of strange GVT1.com domains has drawn the scrutiny of even the most skilled researchers due to the lack of public documentation surrounding these domains.

BleepingComputer approached Google for comment in advance of publishing and we are awaiting a response.

Update, 8 November 2024 10:35 AM ET: Added section on ambiguous SSL certificate presented by search.app. This is a developing story.

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The Galaxy S25 Slim is expected to go up against the likes of Apple's rumored iPhone 17 Slim/Air, while the launch could happen sometime between April and May, exactly when Apple may launch the iPhone SE 4 and Google could unveil the Pixel 9a.

Now, a fresh leak has surfaced about the Galaxy S25 Slim suggesting that it could pack an "Ultra" hardware feature. Notably, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is tipped to come with camera upgrades but will continue to feature the 200MP primary camera.

According to reliable tipster IceUniverse on social media platform X, the Galaxy S25 Slim will have an "Ultra" camera, which could imply a 200MP main sensor. The leaker didn't elaborate much on this claim, so, we are taking our best guess.

A 200MP primary camera makes sense since Samsung recently installed the same lens inside the Galaxy Z Fold6 Special Edition, which launched exclusively in South Korea and China. Interestingly, the global version of the Galaxy Z Fold6 comes with a 50MP primary sensor. So, the company may be planning to bring the 200MP camera outside the "Ultra" line.

While we get excited about the Galaxy S25 Slim's camera leak, another leakster Jukanlosreve on X, suggested that there weren't any confirmed specifications about the "Slim" model.

So, there is a possibility that we may not see a 200MP primary camera on the Galaxy S25 Slim after all. Since both pieces of information aren't official, we would suggest you take them with a huge grain of salt.

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According to a new claim, Android 16 will launch on June 3, 2025. Notably, it will be launched simultaneously for both Google's Android Open Source Project (AOSP) and as OTA updates for Pixel phones. As per Google's timeline, the major Q2 OTA update will be followed by a minor SDK release in Q4 of 2025 to improve the stability of Android 16.

If Android 16 releases in June, then it will be a full 2-3 months earlier than usual since Android 15 started rolling out to Pixel 9 series last month. Google notes that the main reason for the early launch of Android 16 is to allow partner devices to get onboard as quickly as possible. Thanks to the early release, devices launching in July, August, and even September would have the window to launch with Android 16, at least on paper.

Additionally, two-point updates and faster deployment enable developers and OEMs to take advantage of new AI features quickly. Google notes, "Q4 minor release will pick up feature updates, optimizations, and bug fixes since the major release. It will also include new developer APIs, but will not include any app-impacting behavior changes."

The early launch of Android 16 will also help Google introduce Pixel 10 next year, sometime in August, which is the same timeline as this year's Pixel 9 series. However, while the Pixel 9 series didn't debut with the latest OS out of the box, that may not be the case with Pixel 10.

The next version of Android OS, Android 16, has been officially confirmed to be known as "Baklava," which isn't something anybody expected. Although we haven't had dessert code names since Android 9 "Pie" in 2018, subsequent Android versions had internal dessert code names: Android 10 was "Quince Tart," Android 11 was "Red Velvet Cake," Android 12 was "Snow Cone," Android 13 was "Tiramisu," and Android 14 was "Upside Down Cake."

Android 15 was called "Vanilla Ice Cream." However, the Android 16 named "Baklava" breaks the pattern, as the next Android version should have a dessert name that starts with the letter "W." Whatever the name may be, everyone is hopeful that "Baklava" is as tasteful as the real dessert.

Source: Android Headlines

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The International Data Corporation (IDC) has published data showing growing optimism in the Android tablet market, with information on global tablet shipments for the third quarter of 2024.

Samsung led the market with 7.1 million Galaxy Tab shipments, achieving a year-over-year growth of 18.3% and capturing 18.2% of the market share. This is an impressive increase from the 6.0 million units the South Korean company shipped around the same time last year. The biggest contributors to their sales were the budget-friendly Galaxy Tab A9 and Galaxy Tab A9+, rather than the high-end Galaxy Tab S10+ and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra announced in September. Amazon followed Samsung with 4.6 million shipments, significantly boosted by its Prime Day deals.

Huawei saw impressive growth, with a 44.1% year-over-year increase and 3.2 million units shipped, thanks to the launch of products like the Huawei MatePad SE 11, powered by HarmonyOS.

As expected, Apple had the highest shipment numbers for Q3 2024. The company sold 12.6 million units, with a year-over-year growth of 1.4%. The newly launched iPad Air was especially popular during the back-to-school season, appealing to customers over the pricier iPad Pro. According to IDC data, Apple’s tablet market share for Q3 2024 stands at 37.7%.

With Google continuing to improve Android for tablets and developers and manufacturers building on the platform, it will be interesting to see if the gap between Android tablets and iPads closes. Healthy competition is beneficial for customers, and the tablet market deserves strong options just as the smartphone market already has.

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One user, u/TheVloginator, was excited about the Colorsoft, thinking it would be a big upgrade from their Paperwhite Gen 10. However, their excitement faded quickly when the Colorsoft arrived with a noticeable yellow tint at the bottom of the screen. They also mentioned that the text didn’t look as sharp as on the Paperwhite Gen 10. This user reached out to Amazon, and the company will send them a replacement under warranty.

Another user reported that their Colorsoft had a corner with dead pixels.

It’s unclear if these problems are due to hardware or software issues. Uneven lighting and color gradients are common in e-readers because of the limits of front-lit display technology. This can lead to blotchy areas and color shifts, especially near the edges where the lights are. Color e-readers often show these issues more than black-and-white models.

The Verge reported that an Amazon spokesperson acknowledged the yellow discoloration at the bottom of some Kindle Colorsoft devices and advised customers to contact Customer Service if they see it on their e-reader.

On Amazon.com, the Kindle Colorsoft has mixed reviews, averaging 2.6 out of 5 stars. Many negative reviews mention the yellow tint at the bottom 5-10% of the display. Some users noted that the yellow tint is less noticeable when the screen brightness is lower.

Others pointed out a crosshatching effect on the text in bright light. One user complained about a slow keyboard that didn’t improve even after putting the device to sleep.

It’s easy to see why the Colorsoft has received negative reviews. At nearly $300, customers expect a flawless product. Since Amazon is aware of the issues, hopefully, they will have a fix ready before more customers buy the device.

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Now, some fresh information about the upcoming Android 15-based One UI 7 has surfaced, courtesy of reliable tipster SamsonSirJi on social media platform X. As per the tip, the latest One UI 7 build was finalized on October 31, 2024. While minor issues remain, most of the major problems have been fixed with the update. It was rumored that Samsung is polishing the One UI 7 update and would keep the beta program short to offer a better experience from the first beta. This latest leak corroborates it.

One UI 7 is already purported to bring smooth animations, and the latest leak adds that it will offer an "experience that matches or rivals that of iOS and popular Chinese custom Android skins." Notably, the battery drain issue has also been addressed, which has been a major issue for Galaxy users testing the One UI beta updates.

Additionally, Samsung has also fixed the issues faced with financial apps that often lag and fail to update due to security concerns. The most noticeable improvements in animations and performance were seen in the top-of-the-line Galaxy S24 Ultra. Differences can be significant between the S24 Ultra and mid-range phones, so, for the best One UI 7 experience, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is recommended.

The stable update won't be available until next year. Initially tipped that next year, the Galaxy S25 series will run One UI 7.1 out of the box, it is now purported that it may not be the case, and instead it will be One UI 7.

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Now, as per the Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman gives an interesting detail about the upcoming stable iOS 18.2 software update, and it packs some good news. According to Gurman, the update may arrive a bit earlier than expected, potentially as early as the week of December 2, barring any expected delays.

Gurman writes, "The iOS 18.2 operating system update, which includes major improvements to Apple Intelligence and is likely to arrive on the earlier side of December, I’m told. How early? The week of Dec. 2, barring any unexpected delays."

Apple may be quite eager to hand over the next wave of Apple Intelligence features to as many iPhones as possible since the iPhone 16 series is already out, and they were AI-less out of the box. Gurman also noted that the next iOS update will come in April and will introduce iOS 18.4. The iOS 18.4 update is expected to bring improvements to Siri letting the "digital assistant tap into people’s data and respond to queries based on the information on their screens."

Additionally, the upcoming iOS 18.2 update may begin offering Apple Intelligence to localized English in the U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The April iOS 18.4 update is tipped to expand to the European Union. China is nowhere on the horizon for now, and it may not happen until iOS 19. Also, the Gemini chatbot may not arrive in iOS until next year, giving OpenAI an exclusive window since "it isn’t exactly paying for the technology."

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In his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman notes that the 2026 MacBook Pro could undergo a major redesign. Notably, Apple has historically followed a four-year design cycle for the MacBook Pro line, and it is looking like next year's M5 refresh will be another chipset upgrade and not a design overhaul. Gurman anticipates a small performance boost with the M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips that are already near completion.

However, we will have to wait for the completely revamped MacBook Pro until 2026, since the computer, which was originally expected to arrive in 2025, is experiencing delays. Gurman says the MacBook Pro will not be launching in 2025, because of delays related to display technology. The M6 chipset, which will power the MacBook Pro in 2026, is tipped to be manufactured on the 2nm process.

Moreover, Apple is purportedly coining in the option to transition to OLED on the next major MacBook Pro refresh. Display analyst Ross Young and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo have suggested that the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros will continue to feature min-LED displays in 2025.

The new MacBook Pro may also come with a thinner design, a design the company ditched when it introduced Apple Silicon to the Pro models. Fortunately, it appears that Apple is ready to go "slim" again with the MacBook Pro. With an OLED display, a 2nm M6 processor, a performance boost, and a completely new design, Apple might finally drive current MacBook Pro users to upgrade.

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The South Korean giant is expected to keep the One UI 7 beta program short and sweet, and the update got delayed because the company wanted to bring a polished and less buggy One UI 7 update for Galaxy users. Thankfully, leaks didn't keep quiet and have purportedly revealed all the new features expected in the upcoming One UI 7 update including, new animations, new app icons, Homework Help with Circle to Search, AI Zoom, and more.

The new features are surely a treat for Galaxy fans, who may be wondering if their device is eligible for Android 15 or not. While the official list of the Android 15 One UI 7 hasn't been released by Samsung, Neowin has curated a list of devices based on knowledge of previous major One UI updates and their life cycle for an unofficial list. Check out if your phone is on the list or not.

Samsung Galaxy devices eligible for Android 15 (One UI 7) update

• Galaxy S series
  • Galaxy S24 Ultra
  • Galaxy S24+
  • Galaxy S24
  • Galaxy S23 Ultra
  • Galaxy S23+
  • Galaxy S23
  • Galaxy S23 FE
  • Galaxy S22 Ultra
  • Galaxy S22+
  • Galaxy S22
  • Galaxy S21 FE
  • Galaxy S21 Ultra
  • Galaxy S21+
  • Galaxy S21
• Galaxy Z series
  • Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition
  • Galaxy Z Fold 6
  • Galaxy Z Fold 5
  • Galaxy Z Flip 6
  • Galaxy Z Flip 5
  • Galaxy Z Fold 4
  • Galaxy Z Flip 4
  • Galaxy Z Fold 3
  • Galaxy Z Flip 3
• Galaxy A series
  • Galaxy A73
  • Galaxy A55
  • Galaxy A54
  • Galaxy A53
  • Galaxy A35
  • Galaxy A34
  • Galaxy A33
  • Galaxy A25
  • Galaxy A24
  • Galaxy A23
  • Galaxy A15
  • Galaxy A14
  • Galaxy A16
• Galaxy F series
  • Galaxy F55
  • Galaxy F54
  • Galaxy F34
  • Galaxy F15
• Galaxy M series
  • Galaxy M55s
  • Galaxy M55
  • Galaxy M54
  • Galaxy M34
  • Galaxy M53
  • Galaxy M33
  • Galaxy M15
• Galaxy Tab series
  • Galaxy Tab S10+
  • Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
  • Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
  • Galaxy Tab S9 FE
  • Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
  • Galaxy Tab S9+
  • Galaxy Tab S9
  • Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
  • Galaxy Tab S8+
  • Galaxy Tab S8

The above list is created based on various factors. Galaxy phones and tablets launched with Android 13 will pick Android 15 update since all Samsung devices are to pick up at least two major OS upgrades. Flagship and mid-range phones, eligible for four years of OS upgrades will get Android 15, and also Galaxy phones and tablets launched in 2024 will get Android 15.

However, do note that the above list isn't official, and any new device that launches in between the launch before the stable One UI 7 update, may also pick up the update.

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For the last decade or so, Google has released major Android updates in the fall after an extended developer and beta preview process, but for 2025, at least, that’s changing. Now, Google is planning its next major release for Q2 instead of Q3, confirming a recent report from Android Authority about Android 16, which will carry the dessert-themed codename “Baklava.”

 

The announcement says this will “better align with the schedule of device launches across our ecosystem, so more devices can get the major release of Android sooner.” Other changes Google is talking about today include improvements to the Play Store, where users can share preferences for better recommendations on new apps the way they already could for games, and in development, where Google is adding more Gemini AI features in Android Studio to “write, refactor, and document” code in apps.

 

Image: Google

 

The new update schedule addresses a problem with Android’s ecosystem we’ve been discussing since at least 2016, with third-party phones waiting months or longer to get the latest updates.

 

Sure, Google Pixel phones have been first up for the latest releases, but what about everyone else? A new schedule could make it easier for more manufacturers to release new devices with the latest capabilities available on day one instead of waiting for future updates to add things like Circle to Search.

 

In the new pattern, Google is telling developers that there will be a major release in Q2, along with a minor SDK release in Q4 that’s more like the current quarterly releases that add new features without changing the underlying systems as much. It will mean shifting compatibility testing forward, but the other benefit is that apps could have reasons to support new features — iPhone Live Activities-like ongoing notifications, for example — because more devices will be able to use them right away.

 

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First off, there are the new app icons. One UI 7 has been teased multiple times to bring a fresh look to the app icons, and the latest leak confirms that. A video shows off the comparison between the old and new icons. Samsung is also expected to introduce an enhanced lockscreen with more customization options and widgets, and the latest leak highlights a smart notification management system.

Next up is the "Homework Help with Circle to Search." Google announced this feature back in May at the I/O event 2024, however, the feature will now land on Samsung phones with One UI 7 update.

With Circle to Search users will be able to quickly solve Math and Physics problems, as well as History. Google will show explainer videos and results to help students with their homework. Notably, the feature will aid in solving the problem rather than automatically solving it, all without switching apps.

Samsung is also expected to add "Parental Controls," which can be used to block certain websites and apps that may be harmful to kids. Parents will also be able to check the location of their kids, eliminating the need to rely on third-party apps for the same.

AI features are also getting a lot of improvements. Samsung is tipped to add "Live Effects" on pictures to add depth. Then users will also be able to edit portrait images using AI, and multiple AI-generated artistic effects will also be available. Moreover, there is also an "AI Zoom" feature, which makes use of Pro Visual Engine, ensuring zoomed-in images are clearer, even at 100x.

The "Sketch to Image" feature is also expected to get more options. It was first introduced with the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 and had limited options such as 3D Cartoon, Sketch, and Watercolor, but the list is expected to expand.

The "Energy Score" feature is also mentioned to get some updates. While the leak doesn't mention the changes, but adds that the user will "become more aware of your health effects and daily life."

The Samsung SDC 2024 event is all set to take place on November 21, which is when the company commences the rollout of the One UI 7 beta program.

Source and images: Android Headlines

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The more powerful model is the Xiaomi 15 Pro, featuring a 6.73-inch 2K OLED curved display with up to a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen churns out a peak brightness of 3,200 nits. Further, it has 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB, 512GB or 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

For intensive use, there is an advanced wing-shaped circular cooling system with a heat dissipation area of 4,053mm2. Xiaomi's HyperCore scheduler also claims to boost overall performance. On the rear, the triple-camera system in collaboration with Leica consists of a 50MP primary camera, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 50MP periscope telephoto sensor that allows 5x optical zooming. Other highlights of the 15 Pro include a large 6,100mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless fast charging support.

For its design, the Xiaomi 15 assumes a smaller profile. It boasts a small 6.36-inch flat screen but packs the same 3,200 nit peak brightness. It also retains a triple camera configuration, coupled with a 50MP primary shooter. Other features include a 5,400mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless fast charging, satellite communication, and IP68 water and dust resistance.

The Xiaomi 15 comes with a glass back and is available in Lilac, Light Grass Green, Black and White color options. There's also a premium "Bright Silver", and "Diamond Edition" made of luxurious crocodile-grain leather with an actual 57-facet diamond embedded on the side. Lastly, the "Custom Edition", which is available through the 16GB/512GB version, offers 20 color choices for the back panel (you can check all colors in the image above).

It's worth noting that they run on newly announced Xiaomi's HyperOS 2.0. The Xiaomi 15 Pro starts at 5,299 yuan (~$740), but the base model has a more reasonable price of 4,499 yuan (~$630). They'll hit shelves in China starting from 31 October.

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According to a massive leak by Google's gChips division (via Android Authority), credible documents reveal that the Tensor G5, which could debut with the Pixel 10 next year, will get "Video Generative ML" features. The features description reads: "Post-capture Generative AI-based Intuitive Video Editing for the Photos app." This suggests that Pixel users will be able to edit their videos more easily using AI, possibly usable with the YouTube app, especially YouTube Shorts.

There are some other AI features spotted in the document such as "Speak to Tweak," which may let users say their edits and the photo editor will edit the images, then there is "Sketch to Image," which is self-explanatory and is already offered by Samsung Galaxy phones. Google is also said to be working on a "Magic Mirror" feature, but how it will work is still a mystery.

The Tensor G5 is also tipped to come with notable camera improvements. Notably, the chipset will support 4K 60fps HDR video, compared to the 4K 30fps HDR video on current Tensor G4 chipset. The PIxel 11 is mentioned in the document to offer 100x zoom capabilities, similar to Samsung Galaxy Ultra phones, which will be powered by Machine Learning for both photos and videos.

The "Cinematic Blur" feature is also anticipated to get an upgrade on Pixel 11, with support for 4K 30fps. There is also mention of a "video relight" feature that may help to change the lighting condition in a video. Pixel 11 is also tipped to feature a "Ultra Low Light Video" mode. All these features look promising, and could be a game changer for the upcoming Pixel phones.

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The brand has now officially shared key specifications of the OnePlus 13, and according to a post on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, the display on the device is going to be the best display ever in the brand's history. OnePlus confirmed that the OnePlus 13 is the first phone to feature a 2K OLED screen that meets TUV Rheinland's new Intelligent Eye Protection 4.0 standard.

Also, the OnePlus 13 packs a 2nd-gen "Oriental 2K display with 8T LTPO technology" from BOE. It was previously tipped that the phone will also come with a local refresh rate display, which will be first-of-a-kind. Now, the company has also shared that the "super Pro" panel on the OnePlus 13 is equipped with "Glove Touch" and "Rain Touch 2.0" technology that will help users use the device in cold and rain or any other challenging outdoor conditions.

OnePlus 13 is also confirmed to pack a 6000mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless fast charging support. Compared to the OnePlus 12, the OnePlus 13 gains 600mAh more. As noted by OnePlus, the device will provide up to 11 hours of video playback and up to 7.1 hours of navigation on a single charge.

The upcoming flagship is also confirmed to support Wi-Fi 7, which is the same as the Galaxy S24 Ultra and Pixel 9 series, and could also bring improvements to NFC and antenna technologies. The fan-favorite "Alert Switch" is making a return, and the functionality remains the same. OnePlus 13 also features four mics with AI noise detection and reduction for clear audio.

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