Author: Robert Haba

HyperOS 2.2 getting closer every day – non-flagship release date
Since official release dates for a number of flagship models have been revealed, brand fans who have been eagerly awaiting the debut of HyperOS 2.2 can now relax. This significant upgrade adds new AI functions, interface adjustments, and other performance enhancements to Xiaomi’s premium lineup. The information was taken directly from the Xiaomi community forums, where an odd story about how community input influenced the rollout was told. This is one of the most well-planned rollouts the company has ever witnessed, with multiple device series distributing the update around one another.

Schedule updated

The timelines for HyperOS 2.2 have been confirmed for three significant device families:
- REDMI K80 Series: May 12th, Monday
- REDMI K70 Series: May 13th, Tuesday
- Xiaomi 13 Series: Thursday, May 15th
According to DaWangLe, a reliable source from the Xiaomi community, the first goal was to highlight the K80 and K70 series. However, the company changed its approach and eventually released upgrades for all three device lines consecutively as a result of enthusiastic voting and feedback from Xiaomi 13 consumers.

These first 200 beta versions have undergone an exceptionally rigorous testing procedure that has required additional time and resources. In order to synchronize with internal testing and have the updates ready for public release, the Xiaomi team reportedly worked through the weekend.

Beta recruitment

For customers willing to use the new update, the process will function as:
- REDMI K80/Pro users can begin applying for beta recruitment from next Monday
- Upon approval, the selected individuals will get the update immediately Redmi K70/Pro consumers will have direct availability from Tuesday
- The owners of the Xiaomi 13 series will get their update this Thursday
It’s worth noting that these update dates are applicable only to devices in China. Schedules for international rollouts have not yet been released but are usually several weeks behind the China release.

Update available for more devices

Besides the principal release timeline, two additional flagship devices already have update bundles in place:
- Xiaomi 15 Ultra: HyperOS 2.0.201.0.VOACNXM
- Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4: HyperOS 2.0.201.0.VNXCNXM
These models are slated to become part of the update lineup soon, although there are no confirmed release dates.
May 11, 2025
Google Messages receives the “Delete for everyone” feature

In order to provide Android users a 15-minute opportunity to remove an RCS text that shouldn’t have ever left the phone in the first place, Google Messages is now testing a “Delete for everyone” option. The most recent beta version has led to early complaints that when you long press on a message, two options would appear: “Delete for everyone” and “Delete for me.” When the first option is selected, the chat replaces the text with a tiny label that reads “Message removed,” which is visible to all participants.

The feature is currently limited to chats in large groups. While the option remained hidden in smaller groups and one-on-one talks, one tester was successful in a thread with twelve participants. Even though it’s in beta, it’s good to see this feature finally being released after it was first discovered in March.

It should be mentioned that the recall is dependent on RCS Universal Profile 2.7, therefore all conversation participants must have the most recent version of Google Messages installed, else the delete request would silently fail. Furthermore, it appears that Google is already turning off its servers for a small group of beta users to ensure the system is stable before expanding.

Google Messages
Safety starts with understanding how developers collect and share your data. Data privacy and security practices may vary based on your use, region, and age. The developer provided this information and may update it over time.
Play Store

It is not surprising that the rollout was so limited. This safety net has been provided by rival apps for years, and each one has its own boundaries. For a generous two days, WhatsApp allows you to retrieve a message. You have fifteen minutes to modify and two minutes to undo in iMessage. Telegram takes one step further by enabling users to delete texts whenever they want without leaving any evidence behind. Google’s 15-minute limit is tiny when compared to that lineup, but it still fills the largest hole in its flagship chat service.

Given that Apple intends to switch to the same RCS profile that supports these additional functions later this year, the timing is crucial. Google has also been working hard to improve Messages’ quality of life features, such as AI reply suggestions, reaction effects, and a long-overdue edit button that took four months to move from beta to stable last year. By the end of 2025, delete for everyone could reach the majority of phones if the firm keeps up its current pace.

When you consider the time that comes with Apple’s release, I think this is a significant move. Android owners will have the same peace of mind that WhatsApp and iPhone users currently have while keeping their chats organized if Google expands support prior to the stable release.

May 11, 2025
Samsung Galaxy A35 gets the OneUI 7 update

Samsung appears to be looking forward to bringing the next Android 15-based One UI 7 update to more Galaxy smartphones around the world. Samsung has already delivered the upgrade to major flagships, but it is now time for previous generation devices, including the A portfolio, as Galaxy A35 phones have lately begun receiving the software.

More precisely, Samsung has initiated a solid rollout for the Galaxy A35 models in its native country of South Korea, with wider availability coming soon. The device’s upgrade is identifiable by the build number A356NKSU4BYDD.

Meanwhile, the update contains a number of fascinating improvements and changes, including better AI-powered functionality in the form of Awesome Intelligence, a scaled-down version of the full-fledged Galaxy AI suite.

It includes a sophisticated user interface, highly customizable home screen widgets, and a new Now Bar feature that allows users to access all key information such as sports scores, health-related information, alerts, and more without unlocking the device, all while improving overall productivity, creativity, and security.

Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
6.6” FHD+ Super AMOLED Infinity-O, 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate, 1080×2340 pixels, 1000unit (Peak), 389ppi, 5000mAh Battery, Bluetooth 5.3
$293.99See It

At the same time, the update further integrates the April security patch, which focuses on improving the device’s overall security and core functionality that provides a more secure, smooth and efficient user experience.

May 10, 2025
The new design for Android was just leaked by Google.

Google recently unintentionally unveiled Material 3 Expressive, their upcoming major Android overhaul. The business calls the upgrade the “most researched” one to yet, aiming to make its UI more aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly, in a since-deleted blog post that 9to5Google saw.

An archival copy of the removed webpage is available on the Wayback Machine and 9to5.Some of the photographs that Google did not save have been made public.

Google claims to have created Material 3 Expressive following 46 design and research iterations with more than 18,000 participants, as detailed in the post.The design makes a product “more useable” by utilizing color, shape, size, and motion. Later this month, it will also have a separate session at Google I/O.

Google’s research included examining how participants responded to various looks, where they concentrated their attention within a design, and how quickly they grasped an interface. For example, “which progress indicator made the waiting time feel faster” and “how big a button may be for good gains in tap time without overwhelming other objects” were examined by the company as separate components.

When compared to the previous Material 3 design, Google claims that its Material 3 Expressive design made it up to four times faster for users to locate important items inside the interface. Material 3 Expressive “seems to level the playing field for users of all ages,” according to the report, since the design made it easier for individuals over 45 to recognize interface elements just as quickly as younger users.

Reports over the last few days indicate that Google intends to implement improvements to Android’s user interface, such as updated fast settings menu, a new clock font, and revised status bar icons (such the battery icon). Changes to the Google Clock app have also been revealed by other leaks.

May 8, 2025
Temporarily free Android and iOS apps and games
Do you want to get free, high-quality apps and games? You are lucky! Every week, developers offer time-limited, totally free promotions on some of their top-paid apps on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. We have selected the most recent selection of temporarily free downloads for iOS and Android, regardless of your preference for action-packed games, creative tools, or productivity tools. These deals could end at any moment, so take advantage of them while they are still available!

Android apps and games

Apps
- IPTV Smart Player Pro: You can currently save almost ten euros by installing this app. With this player you can bring your TV content from your cell phone to your TV.
- Reminder Pro – Reminder: With this app, you can always keep an eye on your reminders. You can create new reminders in seconds and decide when you want to be reminded.
- Equalizer & Bass Booster Pro: Do you want to tweak your music on your cell phone? Then try this app to get the most out of the sound and bass.
- Countdown Widgets: Whether it’s a vacation, Christmas or the next party night – with this app you can always keep an eye on the next event as a countdown widget on your cell phone. After all, anticipation is the greatest joy.
- Color wheel: Top tool for anyone who works with colors – regardless of whether you are a painter, graphic designer or just need to determine the colors of a photo from time to time.
Games
- Cytus 2: Rayark International Limited is known for offering exciting games with a focus on music. Cytus 2 is one of them and is currently free.
- Cartoon Craft: Fancy a real-time strategy game with a cute cartoon look? Then install this little game here.
- Water Color Sort – Premium: This game principle, in which you decant colors into different bottles, is terribly relaxing. It’s like the lava lamp of mobile games.
- Mini Crossword: This game is for crossword fans who want to pass the time on their cell phone with this classic word puzzle game.
- Crafterok – Lords of Survival: You want to fight for survival on a desert island, but you also want it to look colorful and cuddly? Here you go!
iOS apps and games

Apps
- Scrollit 2X – Visual messenger: If you’re looking for a tool that lets you scroll text across the iPhone display in a nice big way, you’ll find it here.
- Infinity List: There are many list apps. But if it is rated with 4.6 stars, it must be really good. So make sure you put this download on your to-do list!
- Timer for Rehearsal: You’re giving your speech and want to keep an eye on the remaining time? No problem with this versatile timer.
- iKnow Dogs 2 Pro: With this app you have virtually infinite dog knowledge on your iPhone. Handy if you’re looking for a four-legged addition to the family.
- Inkwork: With this app, you can turn your photos into ink-look paintings and choose from over 90 styles.
Games
- Tiny Orchestra: This game is a fun way to teach your little ones about music. Put together your own little iPhone orchestra.
- Block Dash Watch: In this game you have to avoid any collisions. The highlight: You can play the game on both the iPhone and the Apple Watch.
- Aw Craps! This is a game where you can pass the time with classic casino games.
- Bully – Anniversary Edition: With this game from the GTA makers at Rockstar Games, you can prove who’s top dog in the schoolyard.
- Minesweeper: I can recommend this classic game to anyone who wants to play this game in the simplest possible guise.
That concludes our compilation of the games and apps that are now free. Some specials only last a few hours, so make sure to download your favorites before they go away! To receive weekly updates on the newest freebies, bookmark this page or sign up for our email. Did you find anything amazing we missed? We will incorporate it into the upcoming version if you let us know in the comments.
May 7, 2025
May Android security update available for Pixel devices
Given that Google is probably going to release stable Android 16 at Google I/O in a few weeks, I had a sneaking suspicion that we would not see the customary May Android 15 security update for Pixel devices. That aspect of me was incorrect because Google released the May 2025 Pixel update today.

The list of devices receiving the May Pixel update includes the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet, as well as the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The Pixel 9a is seeing a fresh update as well.

According to Google, the May update will start to roll out today and should continue to do so in stages throughout the course of the following week. Your carrier – whether it is Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or prepaid like Google Fi – often determines the date.

Below is the list of the May Android update builds for your particular Pixel smartphone, broken down by worldwide, country, and carrier.

Global
- Pixel 6: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel 6 Pro: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel 6a: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel 7: BP1A.250505.005.B1
- Pixel 7 Pro: BP1A.250505.005.B1
- Pixel 7a: BP1A.250505.005.B1
- Pixel Tablet: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel Fold: BP1A.250505.005.B1
- Pixel 8: BP1A.250505.005.B1
- Pixel 8 Pro: BP1A.250505.005.B1
- Pixel 8a: BP1A.250505.005.B1
- Pixel 9: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel 9 Pro: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: BP1A.250505.005
- Pixel 9a: BD4A.250505.003
Taiwan+EMEA
- Pixel 9: BP1A.250505.005.A1
- Pixel 9 Pro: BP1A.250505.005.A1
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: BP1A.250505.005.A1
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: BP1A.250505.005.A1
Verizon
- Pixel 9: BP1A.250505.005.D1
- Pixel 9 Pro: BP1A.250505.005.D1
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: BP1A.250505.005.D1
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: BP1A.250505.005.D1
Deutsche Telekom
- Pixel 9: BP1A.250505.005.C1
- Pixel 9 Pro: BP1A.250505.005.C1
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: BP1A.250505.005.C1
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: BP1A.250505.005.C1
2025 May Pixel Update Bug Fixes

Regarding bug patches, Google has made three significant adjustments that affect all Pixel devices that are still supported. Google is fixing issues with quick settings, Bluetooth, and audio.

Audio
- Fix for degraded microphone recording quality in certain apps
Bluetooth
- Fix for Bluetooth pairing issues with certain smartwatches under certain conditions
Framework
- Fix for secondary language displayed in quick settings under certain conditions
Again, Google (and its carrier partners like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T) will begin pushing these updates over-the-air shortly (Settings>System>System update), but if you don’t want to wait for Google and prefer to update manually, you will soon find each factory image or OTA file at the links below.
May 7, 2025
Amazfit Active 2 receives a OS update

The Active 2 smartwatch is getting a fresh update from Amazfit. In comparison to other recent releases, firmware version 6.0.14.1 seems to be a small update. According to reports, the raise-to-wake feature has undergone minor adjustments, and a few potential new problems have also been discovered.

A new update is coming for the Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch. Launched in January 2025, this smartwatch features an AMOLED display and is reasonably priced for tracking exercise and health. This watch has previously received updates, including Zepp Flow 1.8.0 in early April and local music storage in March, before the latest firmware version 6.0.14.1.

Amazfit Active 2
The sleek stainless steel build blends classic style with workout durability, while the bright 1.32″ AMOLED display keeps your data easy to read, even under bright sunlight.
$99.99Buy on Amazon

Several users on the web have reported firmware version 6.0.14.1. This update appears to focus on small tweaks and bug fixes, as several Active 2 owners have reported seeing no changes. A few users have noticed a minor change to the lift-to-wake feature, which allows you to activate the screen with this wrist gesture. Following this update, it appears that the screen is less sensitive to activation and stays active for a somewhat longer period of time. Other users have reported discovering potential new bugs. One user said that the swimming lap counter was no longer accurate, while another said they could no longer turn off notification sounds.

While there have been reports of lower battery performance after applying the update, this can usually be rectified by restarting the watch. It is unclear when the apparent staggered distribution of software version 6.0.14.1 will be completed, reaching all users of the Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch.

Amazfit Active 2
The sleek stainless steel build blends classic style with workout durability, while the bright 1.32″ AMOLED display keeps your data easy to read, even under bright sunlight.
$99.99Buy on Amazon

May 6, 2025
Samsung announces Galaxy devices getting One UI 7 in May 2025
The One UI 7 is Samsung’s most significant UI change to date. Even while the build included numerous amazing changes that fans had been anticipating, certain delays made the release a source of frustration among fans as well. Now that the stable release has begun, here are all of the Galaxy models set to receive the upgrade in May 2025.

Essentially, Samsung began the One UI 7 stable update rollout on April 7 for the Galaxy S24 series, as well as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6, which were scheduled to receive the update in the first batch, while the rollout for the US market was scheduled to begin on April 10; however, due to a bug, Samsung had to pause the rollout.

At the same time, the One UI 7 release resumed and is now reaching even more older generation handsets, excluding the Galaxy S24 family and the company’s 6th generation foldables.

Samsung has already begun to expand the reliable One UI 7 edition globally, starting in the company’s hometown of South Korea. So far, Samsung has delivered the stable update to numerous Galaxy phones and tablets since mid-April, and will continue to do so until every eligible device is covered.

Furthermore, One UI 7 introduced many new features and modifications, although it is worth noting that a few Galaxy AI functions may not be available in previous Galaxy model lineups.

List of samsung Galaxy devices receiving One UI 7 in May 2025.

Now that we have entered the month of May, here are all of the Galaxy smartphones, tablets, and foldables that are expected to receive updates this month in the global market:

Galaxy S Series
- Samsung Galaxy S24
- Samsung Galaxy S24+
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
- Samsung Galaxy S23
- Samsung Galaxy S23+
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
- Samsung Galaxy S22
- Samsung Galaxy S22+
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S21
- Samsung Galaxy S21+
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE
Galaxy Z series
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 and Z Flip4
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3
Galaxy Tablets
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
Galaxy A series
- Samsung Galaxy A55
- Samsung Galaxy A35
- Samsung Galaxy A54
- Samsung Galaxy A34
Galaxy M series
- Samsung Galaxy M55
- Samsung Galaxy M35
- Samsung Galaxy M54
- Samsung Galaxy M34
Galaxy F series
- Samsung Galaxy F55
- Samsung Galaxy F54
- Samsung Galaxy F34
May 5, 2025
4 best smartwatches for Android phones

Your phone allows you to answer calls, make and receive texts, and give commands to a voice-activated assistant. But sometimes it is more convenient to perform those things on your wrist, which is where a smartwatch comes in.

The Apple Watch is the gold standard for smartwatches, but it is only compatible with Apple iPhones. If you own an Android phone, you have a lot more smartwatch alternatives, but there is also a lot more opportunity for misunderstanding. Most of the watches we have seen are too slow, cumbersome, or lacking in functionality to be worthwhile purchases. After testing hundreds of smartwatches for Android phones, including the most recent versions, we determined that the Samsung Galaxy Watch7 is the best option for the majority of Android phone users.

Samsung Galaxy Watch7
Looking for a great way to bring out your personal best every day? Challenge yourself to excel on your next run or bike ride using tracking with Galaxy AI that lets you compare your current performance to your last one
Best choice
~~$299.99~~$209.99Amazon

The Samsung Galaxy Watch7‘s robust shell comes in two sizes and is one of the most comfortable watches we have tested. The Watch7 runs the most recent Wear OS software and includes additional health and fitness capabilities such as sleep apnea detection, metabolic health monitoring, and an AI-based Energy Score that combines workout and sleep information. You can also use your fingers to engage with some watch features without touching the screen. Unfortunately, like its predecessor, the battery only lasts one day and requires hours to fully recharge.

Google Pixel Watch 3
The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info
Very good choice
~~$399.99~~$349.99Amazon

The Google Pixel Watch 3 looks similar to the original Pixel Watch, but with slimmer bezels. The 41 mm and 44 mm variants have equal features, but the 44 mm watch has a longer-lasting battery. The Pixel Watch 3 has a new OLED display that can reach up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness. It also runs the most recent version of Google’s Wear OS 5, which includes additional health-related functions and improved connection with Google’s ecosystem. It retains the previous version’s unique band connector, which is only compatible with the bands provided by Google.

OnePlus Watch 2R
The OnePlus Watch 2 fuses a stainless-steel chassis with a robust 2.5D sapphire crystal face, delivering a sophisticated design that withstands daily wear and tear with a 5ATM and IP68 rating, and military-grade standard for durability.
Good choice
~~$299.99~~$209.99Amazon

The OnePlus Watch 2R may last many days on a single charge while also providing important health tracking—all at an inexpensive price. Its 46 mm shell houses a big 1.43-inch OLED display with a maximum brightness of 1,000 nits, and it runs a hybrid system made up of two chips and two software setups, including Google’s Wear OS 4 and Google Assistant.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Watch Ultra sports a huge 47 mm titanium body with a display that can reach up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, making it easier to see your screen even in the darkest of nights and brightest of days.
~~$390.00~~$291.00Amazon

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra incorporates a few extra capabilities than the Watch7 into a larger, more robust smartwatch. It offers fitness monitoring for triathletes, bikers, swimmers, and strong endurance users, with twice the battery life of the Watch 7. Many people are put off by its large size, heavy weight, and high price, but the features and battery life may be worth the premium.

May 5, 2025
#rumor – Xiaomi might build HyperOS 3 free of Google services

There is currently a precarious scenario between the United States and China, with Huawei being the unlucky subject of trade sanctions. The constraints imposed on the erstwhile smartphone behemoth indicate that other Chinese corporations, like as Xiaomi, are not immune to incurring the same fate, which is why it is critical that these companies be well-prepared for any shocks. For the time being, the first order of business is a report that a HyperOS version devoid of Google Play apps and services, akin to Huawei’s HarmonyOS, is in the works, with BBK assisting with the changeover.

Huawei’s experience in dealing with hardship will help Xiaomi develop its latest HyperOS 3 version.

A highly speculative rumor from XiaomiTime claims that Xiaomi is collaborating with Huawei and the BBK Group, the parent company of OPPO, Vivo, and OnePlus, to create a HyperOS 3 version that is free of Google’s apps and services. Xiaomi now has a license to use the Mountain View company’s smartphone operating system, but no one knows when the Trump administration may reconsider this collaboration.

The US government’s concerns about Xiaomi may have been exacerbated when it was revealed that the company had successfully taped-out its custom 3nm chipset and was on track to launch its first in-house solution, Xring, later this month, though the intended timeline may be pushed back. Unfortunately, the only market where Xiaomi can achieve the majority of its success if it abandons Android is China, unless it can provide millions of customers with a custom app store that includes all of the essential alternatives, which is extremely difficult.

It is likely that Xiaomi is keeping HyperOS 3 as a “ace up its sleeve” in case the Trump administration imposes a trade ban on the company, which would also prevent it from using Google Play services or apps. Until such an incident occurs, Xiaomi will most likely avoid losing a large number of consumers and millions of dollars in income.

May 5, 2025