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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While there aren’t a lot of new features in Android 15, it does offer some useful additions for your phone — and one of the most interesting is called “Private Space.” Think of it as a separate app vault that locks away specified apps on your Android device.

 

Of course, the main lockscreen already stops other people from accessing your phone, but Private Space puts an extra barrier in place. The idea is that if you lend someone your device to make a call or look at a photo, they won’t accidentally (or deliberately) stumble into something they shouldn’t. It’s also an extra safety net if your phone is lost or stolen while it’s unlocked.

 

I tried the feature on a Pixel 8 phone running Android 15. Here’s how it works.

Setting up Private Space

There is a lot of screen guidance when

you set up your first private space.

Screenshot: Google

 

You get the option to use a lock that’s

different from that of your main screen.

Screenshot: Google

 

• Begin by going to Settings and selecting Security and privacy > Private space.
• You then get a comprehensive overview of how it works and your options. Tap Set up.
• On the next screen, you get the option (if you want) to use a different existing Google account for your private space or create a new one. You don’t have to do this, but it means you don’t run the risk of data from your private space being synced to your normal, more public areas on other devices: think photos, browsing history, and emails, for example. It also prevents your private data from being used in your browsing history or to prompt suggested content. Choose Got it to select another account or Do it later to skip this step. 
• Once you’ve chosen your account (or created a new one), you’ve got another choice: tap Choose new lock to set a new authentication method (like a PIN) for this private space or Use screen lock to use the security method already configured for your phone’s lockscreen.
• After a few moments, your private space will have been created. Click Done.
• You’ll find that a selection of Google apps, including Google Chrome and Google Photos, is already included.

 

Now, whenever you want to go to your private space, just scroll to the bottom of the app drawer, tap on the padlock icon, and authenticate (using either a biometric method like fingerprint recognition, or a PIN).

Configuring Private Space

Your private space lives at the bottom

of the app drawer.

Screenshot: Google

 

There are options to fully hide the private

space and lock it automatically.

Screenshot: Google

 

You can’t drag apps in and out of your private space — you have to install them. Think of it almost like a completely different Android device. When you’re within the space, tap the Install button to add new apps, and long-press on an app icon and choose Uninstall to remove them.

 

You can receive notifications from apps in the private space, but only when it’s unlocked. To use the same example as I used above, it’s effectively like a separate device, and when the space is locked, it’s like you’ve turned off that device. For this reason, Google doesn’t recommend using it to store apps that might need to send you critical information. 

 

Once you’ve unlocked your private space, it stays open on the app drawer until you lock it again via the Lock button. You can also have the space lock automatically in certain situations: this and other options can be configured by tapping on the gear icon in the private space window.

 

• Choose Private space lock to change the lock method used to access the private space.
• Select Lock private space automatically to set when the private space is locked automatically: whenever the phone is locked; five minutes after a screen timeout; or every time the device restarts.
• Tap Hide private space to remove it from the app drawer so other people don’t know it’s there. When it’s hidden, you can only find it by searching for “private space” in the search bar at the top of the app drawer.
• Choose Delete private space to erase the private space and everything in it (though anything synced to the cloud isn’t affected).

 

Note that you can’t transfer your private space to a new phone. The standard Android-to-Android setup process won’t include any private space apps. You’ll have to start the private space again from scratch, though you can sign in with the same Google account you used for the private space on the older phone, which will restore your data in apps such as Gmail and Google Keep.

 

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Android 16 may come with a new “Rich Ongoing Notifications” feature that lets developers keep persistent notifications in the Android status bar, according to Android 15 beta code discovered by Android Authority’s Mishaal Rahman, who frequently dives into code to surface coming features.

 

Right now, the code enables adding a pill-shaped icon with custom text and background color to the Android status bar. Some mock notifications Rahman created show how it could be used for things like telling you when to expect your Uber to arrive. Android has already had a feature like this since Android 12 that lets you know how long you’ve been on a phone call, Rahman notes.

 

A screenshot of a mock ongoing notification for Uber, created by Rahman.

Screenshot: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

 

It looks similar to the iOS Live Activities feature, which surfaces things like timers, sports scores, and delivery ETAs on users’ lock screens and at the top of notifications. On the iPhone 14 Pro and up, they appear as widgets that are a glance away in the Dynamic Island cutout while you’re doing other things on your phone.

 

I’d love to have something just like that on my Pixel 6 phone. Live Activities have been a great way to keep from forgetting about a parking meter I paid for via my city’s parking app, or quickly checking on when a food delivery will arrive. Having something similar on Android would be one less barrier to me switching back to the platform in the future.

 

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In the latest Google Calendar Android app version (2024.42.0-687921584-release), a new toggle was spotted inside the Settings menu. Notably, event illustrations are called "flairs" and are automatically generated images that are applied for months and events in the calendar view.

For example, if you have an upcoming coffee date, then the event will have a matching illustration applied to it. Similarly, if you have someone's birthday coming up, then that event will have an illustration with a cake or something close to a birthday celebration for that particular event. Additionally, the illustrations, aka "flairs," are also applied to depict seasonal themes and holidays.

Now, the application has added a "Show event illustration" toggle to turn them completely off. Folks at Android Authority have shared images of what the Calendar app looks like when the illustrations are turned off (pretty boring). On the other hand, it could be pretty beneficial and appealing for those who would like to squeeze more information into the calendar view. With the flairs turned off, you will see more events fit into the screen.

Turning off the illustrations currently only applies to events and doesn't affect the monthly or seasonal flairs that are applied automatically. Interestingly, the ability to turn off event flairs isn't a new feature entirely. It was available on tablets and screens with a DPI greater than 600 for quite some time. But this is the first time the toggle has been spotted on smartphones.

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Today, Google announced that it is adding a new feature to Google Photos to make it easier for users to see when AI edits have been used. Starting next week, Google Photos will add a note when a photo has been edited with Google AI right in the Photos app. Recently, Apple also introduced a similar feature in its Photos app. Apple is marking AI-edited photos as "Modified with Clean Up" in the Photos app and is also updating the photo's EXIF data with the "Apple Photos Clean Up" information.

It is important to note that images edited with tools like Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, and Zoom Enhance in Google Photos already include metadata based on technical standards from The International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC) to indicate that they've been edited using generative AI. Google is now making this information visible to end-users, along with the file name and other details.

Apart from indicating AI-edited images, Google is also using IPTC metadata to indicate if an image is composed of elements from different photos using non-generative features. This will be applied to photos captured using Best Take on Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 and Add Me on Pixel 9 smartphones.

Based on user feedback, Google will further improve transparency around AI photo edits in the future. As AI editing tools become more sophisticated, it's essential for companies like Google and Apple to continue prioritizing clear communication about how these technologies are being used.

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Almost a month before the official debut of the iPhone 16, we reported that Apple may want to keep some of its best innovations under wraps and use them in the 2025 iPhones. As a result of recent structural changes at Apple, Richard Dinh has become the VP of product design for the iPhone and related programs, as per Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

In a memo to the engineering group, Apple's engineering head, John Ternus, described next year's iPhone 17 series as the "most ambitious in the product's history." Such an inflated claim makes us wonder what Apple might have kept under wraps for 2025.

According to previous reports, Apple wants to drop the Plus model from the iPhone 17 lineup and replace it with a Slim model. This is the most reliable information about Apple's next-generation iPhones to date, alongside other claims like 12GB of RAM for the Pro variants. Additionally, there is no question that the iPhone 17 series will be heavily dependent on AI capabilities with an improved and smarter Apple Intelligence.

Since no context is yet offered, it's hard to define what Ternus could mean by his "most ambitious" claim. However, reading between the lines, Apple could be preparing to finally launch a foldable or flipping iPhone to catch up with Samsung and Google. In April, Apple was spotted filing patents for an alleged multi-display phone, dubbed "User Interfaces For Devices With Multiple Displays." Though, the firm might still need to gain some technological uniqueness before launching a so-called iPhone Fold.

Another feature that could fulfill Apple's ambitious dream for the iPhone 17 series is its compatibility with AR and VR content, aligning with the company's recent plans to launch a cheaper Vision Pro headset to make it cater to a broader audience.

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The devices look to continue the Leica partnership that Xiaomi has enjoyed for the last few years, starting with the Xiaomi 12 Ultra, with the camera setup rumoured to feature a 50MP primary Light Fusion 900 series camera, with f/1.4 aperture, as well as a 50MP ultrawide and 50MP Sony IMX858 5X telemacro camera. The devices are currently expected to boast up to 16GB of RAM, and storage options of up to 1TB.

We've also had some official renders of the upcoming devices shared, with the Xiaomi 15 confirmed to be coming with a 6.36 inch display, and the Xiaomi 15 Pro is going to have a quad-curved display covered with Xiaomi Dragon Crystal Glass 2. Both devices will also include an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner under the display, and will be supported with up to five years of software updates, increasing from the four that it provides for the Xiaomi 14 series.

The launch event for these devices will also include the announcement of its in-house developed operating system, HyperOS 2.0, as well as further showcases of the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra electric hypercar which will also be powered by HyperOS and will further build upon the SU7, SU7 Pro and SU7 Max.

Even though the devices are expected to launch in China next week, there has not yet been a global release schedule planned for them but the current expectation is that both the Xiaomi 15 and the Xiaomi 15 Pro will be available in early 2025.

Source: Android Authority

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In addition to expanding the browser choice screen to iPadOS, Apple is also making changes to the screen based on feedback from developers. The following design changes have been made to the browser choice screen in iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2:

• Users will be able to select their default browser directly on the choice screen, without seeing descriptive information on the App Store product page for that browser.
• Browser descriptions on the choice screen will include the app subtitle from the browser’s App Store product page.
• Users will be able to review each browser’s App Store product page by tapping on the chevron to the right.
• Users will be required to scroll through the full list of browser options before setting a browser as default.
• If the chosen default browser is already on device, that browser will automatically open once chosen.
• If the chosen default browser is not already downloaded on device, the choice screen will show the selected browser’s download progress on the choice screen before automatically opening.
• If Safari is currently in the user’s Dock or on the first page of the Home Screen and the user selects a browser that is not currently installed on their device from the choice screen, the selected browser will replace the Safari icon in the user’s Dock or in the Home Screen. If the user selects a browser that is currently installed on their device from the choice screen but not on the first page of the Home Screen or the Dock, the selected browser will replace the Safari icon in the user’s Dock or in the Home Screen.
• If Safari is currently in the user’s Dock or on the first page of the Home Screen and the user had previously selected another other browser as their default from the choice screen before updating to iOS 18.2, they will be prompted once upon first launch of Safari about whether they want to swap Safari’s icon with the icon of their default browser. This is only if their default browser is not on the first page of the home screen or the Dock.
• Developers of browsers on the choice screen will have access to a new set of data about their browser’s performance on the choice screen. Developers should contact their Apple representative or dma-data@apple.com for more information.

The updated browser choice screen will be displayed for users in the following countries in the European Union:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czechia
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden

In addition to the browser choice screen changes, Apple is now allowing users to export their browser data from Safari Settings in the Settings app. This will allow users to install an alternative browser and import their data from Safari to continue their browsing experience without any issues. Browser vendors can support Safari import through the details provided in this link. The above changes are now available for testing with the recently released iOS 18.2 beta.

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Google’s Longevity GRF program lets chipset vendors like Qualcomm support their platforms with 7 years of Android OS updates.

• Google announced a new program called longevity GRF earlier this year that makes it easier for chipset vendors to support their platforms for 7 years of Android updates.
• Chipsets under longevity GRF can use the same vendor software through 7 years of Android OS updates.
• Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite is the first chipset to be part of the longevity GRF program.

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The extended support comes in the form of Board Support Packages, or BSP. The BSP includes the low-level binary drivers, integrated development environments (IDEs), and application programming interfaces (APIs) needed for an Android device's customized software build to function on the underlying processor hardware.

So if a phone debuts with Android 15, it will continue to receive BSP updates through Android 22 (assuming the current yearly Android version update cadence continues). This provides a much longer window with which device makers can push security patches and new features to their phones via software updates.

This 8-year support period could allow phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite to stay relevant, but it still requires manufacturers to customize Qualcomm's BSPs and push them down to users. While the chip may offer 8 years of updates, the actual update rollout schedules will be set by the OEMs.

Recently, larger OEMs like Samsung and Google have expanded their update policies to 5-7 years. But many still offer minimal support. Not all Snapdragon 8 Elite handsets may see the full 8 years of software longevity unless practices change across the industry. Still, this upgraded BSP significantly raises the bar and puts pressure on brands to match Qualcomm's improved longevity standards.

In case you missed it, the Snapdragon 8 Elite is manufactured on TSMC's 3nm process node. Qualcomm is also bringing its own Oryon CPUs to smartphones for the first time. It's worth noting that a Snapdragon 8 Elite is expected to power a number of Android smartphones including ASUS, Honor, iQOO, OnePlus, OPPO, Realme, Samsung, Vivo, Xiaomi and more.

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