Unless you detest receiving free things, now is a wonderful time to purchase a new Android phone: The Google Pixel 8 Pro is currently available on Amazon for $749, which is $250 less than its $999 list price. Price-checking tools indicate it is the lowest price the device has ever reached, and that is before you even account for a significant freebie with purchase: Amazon is including the $249 LTE Google Pixel Watch with your Pixel phone as a bonus to sweeten the deal. Even though these are older models, both of these gadgets still have a lot to offer, so this is a wonderful deal.
You can only get the phone with 128GB of storage if you take advantage of the offer for the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel Watch. Read more about it in the “great” review from PCMag. If you need more capacity, the basic Pixel 8 comes in 128GB and 256GB variants.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
nlocked Android Smartphone with telephoto lens, 24-hour battery
Since Google unveiled the new Pixel 9 lineup in August, the Pixel 8 Pro is no longer the newest model. But even a year after its launch, the Pixel 8 Pro is still a fantastic phone in 2024 thanks to its support for a ton of AI technologies that give the device a brand-new vibe. Since Google has been actively trying to address security flaws in its Pixel phones since the Pixel 6, software upgrades for the Pixel 8 Pro will be available for a considerable amount of time (up to seven years).
Every few months, Google also releases new features for the Pixel, such as the “Audio Magic Eraser,” which eliminates annoying noises from films, and the “finest Take” function, which allows you to select the finest picture out of a collection.
It has been rumored that the Google Pixel phones will receive the Android 15 upgrade on the 15th of next month. The upgrade, which is expected to be the final OS update for Pixel 6 phones, will launch the day following Columbus Day in the United States.
While other phone makers can currently utilize Android 15, the Pixel series is expected to carry on the tradition of using “stock Android.” For the Google Pixel 9, which debuted with Android 14, this is the first OS upgrade. The Pixel 9 is guaranteed seven years of service, and updates will be coming out until Android 21.
Although the Pixel 6 phones will still receive security upgrades for the next two years, Android 15 is probably the last version for them. You really should upgrade if your Pixel 5 or below. Google concurs as the Pixel 5 and previous Pixel phones will not receive the Android 15 update.
Ironically, the Pixel 5 would have received upgrades for an additional three years if it had also received seven years of support. Google has been promoting its newest phones for something else, even if Android 15 is huge news. You guessed it: artificial intelligence.
Going back to the subject at hand, though, Android 15 will include a ton of new features. Allowing developers to use larger page file sizes is another really nice development coming from Google. To put it another way, Android is going to see a major speed increase.
Hopefully, Android 15’s release will go more smoothly than whatever Apple has been doing this year. Following the release of visionOS 2 without some functionality and iOS 18 without Apple Intelligence, Apple was forced to stop updating the software since iPadOS 18 was bricking M4 iPad units. Not a nice appearance at all, in fact.
Next year’s Galaxy S25 phones should be much better after Android 15 is released. We will also have some of the greatest phones available for both main operating systems if Apple fixes its issue.
In addition, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold recently received a high repairability test score, so clearly Google is doing something right.
On the third day of Huawei Connect 2024, the OEM showcased the revolutionary capabilities of the native HarmonyOS. In terms of the user experience, efficiency, and self-developed software system, it also shares a few other accomplishments.
According to Zhu Yonggang, President of Huawei Mobile Cloud, users will receive a fresh and inventive experience at their doorstep with the native HarmonyOS NEXT.
The newest system architecture serves as the foundation for the new HarmonyOS, which is powered by distributed soft buses, native intelligence, and Star Shield protection. Together with ensuring an amazing appearance, these parts also guarantee quicker, more seamless, and safer device operation.
HarmonyOS NEXT does away with all conventional foreign components. Compared to Linux, it is three times more efficient thanks to its pioneering microkernel. Because of its high level of security, this kernel has been certified at several higher industry levels.
The new self-developed OS’s intrinsic intelligence is another important component. To get the best and most complete intelligence for system apps, the company has reformed AI-centered intelligence. Celia is an excellent illustration of this element.
The Assistant
Celia has reached a higher level. It has a ton of useful services and intriguing features. It links third-party apps to the HarmonyOS native app ecosystem and empowers the expansive Pangu AI model to oversee them. A new and more intelligent virtual assistant developed by Huawei is also ready and is built on the high-level interaction of large models.
This helper is capable of thought, planning, artistic expression, and more organic user involvement. It provides a simple understanding so that users may more easily enjoy taking notes, asking inquiries, obtaining document intelligence, and recognizing dialogue on screen.
Easier multi-device collaboration
According to Zhu, the HarmonyOS NEXT provides a smooth service flow and sharing encounter. Additionally, app continuation is supported. To seamlessly carry out one device’s task on another, just bring the two devices close together and click the pop-up icon.
These gadgets might include laptops, smartphones, tablets, and even smart automobiles. Right now, the best instances of app continuation are Amap, DingTalk, and WPS. They even offer features like a copy-and-paste tool for the gallery that works across devices.
The President goes on to say that HarmonyOS NEXT’s new Star Shield Security architecture makes it the most potent OS to date in terms of security and privacy. It oversees full-process purity, system security, and kernel security.
The Huawei representative claims that HarmonyOS NEXT operates on a “one system, one ecosystem” basis. For this reason, it seeks to bring many objects and circumstances under the purview of interaction. The corporation makes an annual investment of about 6 billion yuan to support innovation inside the HarmonyOS ecosystem.
Following the release of the HarmonyOS NEXT beta, the company released more than six versions. Additionally, it got more than a million comments and ideas.
Perhaps the stable HarmonyOS NEXT version would be an extremely better software system for Huawei device owners.
With training data at their disposal, IT companies including as Google, Anthropic, OpenAI, and Meta are racing to develop the best large language model (LLM) in order to produce valuable services that attract investors, businesses, and consumers. Some businesses offer smaller versions of their LLMs that can run locally on mobile devices, as the most capable of these LLMs require processing power that simply is not accessible on the little smartphones we carry in our pockets.
Currently accessible on a few Android phones, Gemini Nano is the mobile optimized version of Google’s LLM. Google only offered Gemini Nano on the Pixel 8 Pro smartphone when it first launched it in December. After a month, it was made available for Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series, bringing an end to Pixel’s brief exclusivity for the AI model.
Google began to push out the Gemini Nano variant to a few more Pixel and Samsung devices in 2024. However, Google ultimately introduced the AI model on a smartphone made by Xiaomi, a different manufacturer, last week.
However, it appears that the Xiaomi 14T was only the beginning, as Google has let loose and begun to add support for Gemini Nano to a wide range of new smartphones. This covers both phones from established Nano backers like Samsung and phones from recent Nano entrants like Motorola and Realme.
What phones support Gemini Nano?
Devices that support Gemini Nano
Google Pixel 8
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Google Pixel 8a
Motorola Edge 50 Ultra
Motorola Razr 50 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S24
Samsung Galaxy S24+
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Realme GT 6
Xiaomi 14T
Xiaomi 14T Pro
Xiaomi MIX Flip
Devices that support the latest Gemini Nano with multimodality
Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
What differentiates the most recent Gemini Nano versions from one another?
While Gemini Nano and its multimodal variant are both members of the Gemini 1.0 family of LLMs, the multimodal version supports input formats other than text, such as image, speech, and audio. Google claims that the updated version of Nano performs far better in real-world applications and academic benchmarks, and it is roughly twice as big as the previous version.
Gemini Nano’s latest version with multimodality is currently only available on the Google Pixel 9 series, with no word on when or if it’ll come to other devices.
Which AI functionalities does Gemini Nano support?
The AI functions in the Pixel Screenshots, Talkback, Pixel Recorder, Phone by Google, and Pixel Weather applications are powered by the new Gemini Nano, which has multimodality on the Google Pixel 9 series. Pixel Screenshots analyzes your screenshots locally using multifunctional Gemini Nano. TalkBack makes use of it to produce visual descriptions. It is used by Pixel Recorder to condense transcripts of audio recordings. It is used by Google Phone to transcribe phone conversations. Finally, it is used by Pixel Weather to produce a weather summary for the day.
Because of its smaller size and support for text-only input, the previous Gemini Nano on the Google Pixel 8 series has a few extra limitations. In approved messaging apps, it aids in the Gboard app’s generation of intelligent responses. (Smart answers in Gboard are powered by Gemini on the Google Pixel 9, and there are no discernible differences.) It also facilitates the generation of transcript summaries for the Pixel Recorder app, however it is limited to 15 minutes of audio recording.
Currently, the older Gemini Nano model powers only one AI feature on non-Pixel devices, which is Magic Compose in Google Messages. This function suggests possible responses for you to send to a contact based on the context of the last 20 messages in a discussion. Your texts never leave your device because this is all done on-device.
Hopefully, this will not remain the case for long, even if Magic Compose is presently the only Gemini Nano-powered function that is compatible with all devices that utilize the AI model. Indeed, Google has now made the AI Edge SDK, which enables apps to leverage Gemini Nano, available for experimental use.
However, as this experimental access is merely “for development purposes,” third-party app developers are unable to utilize Gemini Nano for AI capabilities at this time. Furthermore, most devices are not included in this project because developers can only use the newer Gemini Nano with multimodality for text-to-text prompting through this experimental access.
In any case, it is evident that Google is committed to making Gemini Nano available on more Android smartphones. Currently, Gemini Nano is supported by 15 Android phones, and the latest Gemini Nano with multimodality is supported by an additional 4. Hopefully, as Google rolls out the AI model to more phones, developers will be more inclined to create innovative and engaging applications that leverage it.
Smartwatches are one of the most interesting subcategories of consumer technology. From Apple to Samsung, everyone is vying for market share, and they will stop at nothing to achieve it. But as of late, OnePlus has proven that it can produce high-quality goods, as evidenced by the remarkable OnePlus Watch 2, which we examined earlier this year.
The OnePlus Watch 2R, a second wearable that the firm just launched to its inventory, is typically priced at $229 ($70 less than the Watch 2) and provides a virtually identical experience to OnePlus’ flagship watch, with a few functions being removed to reduce the price.
Menstrual cycle tracking and EKG support are two of those capabilities; if these are important to you, get the regular Watch 2. But the Watch 2R is a great option if all you need is a reliable timepiece to pair with your Android phone.
With the exception of the glossy finish and the “flat tire” on the right side of the 2R, the two watches are nearly identical from the exterior. The watch is identical in size to the Watch 2 and has a single case size of 46mm. Additionally, aluminum alloy—rather than stainless steel—is used in its construction.
All things considered, it is a stylish, thin watch that is easy to forget about once you put it on thanks to its light construction. The case size is the sole possible complaint from some people, as it is somewhat large for people with smaller wrists. Additionally, there are just two color options available: silver with a green band or matte black/gray with a black band. You will have to make due with subtlety as there are no options for blue or gold.
Although it is not the most stunning wristwatch screen I have ever seen, the 2R’s 1.43-inch AMOLED display is more than sufficient for the price. It can go up to 1,000 nits bright thanks to the 466×466 resolution, and everything is accurate in terms of contrast and colors.
You may access Wear OS 4.0 after pairing the Watch 2R with your preferred Android phone (iOS is not supported here, incidentally). Though OnePlus has not tweaked the system as much as Samsung with its Galaxy watch lineup, they have added a number of first-party apps, a few UI components, and a ton of custom watch faces.
I am pleased to report that Wear OS is in excellent condition every time I visit it. Though it does not operate quite as smoothly as Apple WatchOS, it nevertheless has comparable functionality. The Tiles interface allows you to swiftly peek at fitness trends and calendar appointments, and the Play Store offers an enormous selection of apps. This is Wear OS’s greatest iteration to yet.
It functions well as well. The Watch 2R’s internal Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip is quick and effective, and I have not noticed any noticeable slowdowns when using it. It has performed well in handling everything from managing notifications to navigating between apps.
We pointed out that the OnePlus Watch 2‘s battery life, which could easily last two to three days due to its novel approach to processing power—combining a conventional Snapdragon chip with a co-processor for handling smaller tasks that drew far less power—set a new standard for Wear OS watches. Using the same methodology, the Watch 2R can go up to three days between charges thanks to a 500mAh battery.
The fact that OnePlus managed to get such amazing battery life on a second smartwatch impresses me. Furthermore, with the provided charging puck, you can recharge it from zero to 100 percent in about an hour.
You will undoubtedly want to monitor your fitness progress with any smartwatch. Unfortunately, the Watch 2R may not meet your needs if you are a die-hard fitness enthusiast or someone who closely monitors health parameters.
The Watch 2R lacks a skin temperature sensor, an advanced health tracking app, menstrual cycle tracking, and EKG functionality. OHealth is useful for basic statistics, but its simple charts and graphs do not actively show you how you are doing in terms of achieving your long-term objectives.
While it is true that OnePlus has made improvements to the accuracy of other sensors, such as the heart rate sensor, GPS, and Sp02 sensor for blood oxygen monitoring, the overall experience still seems a little lackluster when compared to the Galaxy Watch 7 or Pixel Watch 2. Rather, the Watch 2R is far more accommodating to individuals who are just beginning their fitness adventure.
While we are discussing the drawbacks of the phone, I should also mention that I have seen a decrease in durability. The 2R lacks the same sapphire glass covering the display and does not have the same military-grade drop protection. Fortunately, it still possesses 5ATM water resistance, so it will function well down to 50 meters. However, avoid using it for deep-sea diving.
Lastly, it is a little unfortunate that the watch cannot have an LTE plan added to it. Though I know many people may not care, I frequently do things without my phone and I value being able to receive calls and notifications directly on my wrist.
Your smartphone may eventually start to feel a little too same-old, especially when it comes to the apps you use. There is nothing better than exploring the ever-changing world of app discounts to find the newest products available for iOS and Android. We have carefully chosen a wide selection of apps that are now free to download from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store for this issue. But act quickly—these offers will not last long!
Although we will not go into great detail about each app, it is vital to note that some may have advertisements and in-app purchases. Be at ease! We have taken care to ensure that you can examine only the best possibilities without going over budget.
Now let us get started and find the free programs that are available for you to use immediately! Advice: Download and install any apps you see that you would want to have but do not require right now. It would be seen as “purchased,” and even if you immediately remove it from your smartphone, it will always remain in your app library.
Android apps and games that are free for a limited time
Android apps for productivity and lifestyle
Image Converter ($1.99): Convert images to PDF, making it easy to share with everyone else.
Deals Tracker Pro ($3.99): Keep track of deals from various e-tailers via this centralized app.
Free Android games
One Shot ($0.99): Clear each level with just one motion. How good is your physics?
The Weapon King VIP ($0.99): It is one weapon against another. Which will emerge as the winner in this no-holds-barred competition?
Shadow Survival ($0.99): It is you against the world. Do you have what it takes to survive hordes of enemies bearing down on you?
Stick Warrior ($0.49): It is a duel to the death, where each victory brings you one step closer to the finals in this beat ’em up.
Spelling Book Pro ($1.99): Play this game and improve your word power.
Light Meter ($3.99): Get the right amount of light for your photos and capture the perfect shot with this app!
mySymptoms Food Diary ($7.99): Some of us are allergic to many types of foods. Why not use this food diary to keep track of your eating habits?
Timestamp Cam ($9.99): Use this app to add a date and GPS location to your photos and videos.
Christmas Countdown ($0.99): Admit it, Mariah Carey’s Christmas album is already thawing and Christmas will be upon us before you know it. Use this app to count down the days.
Free games for the iPhone and iPad
Car Game for Kids ($5.99): This game is meant for your little ones, where you pick a car and be a taxi driver for the day.
Macrocosm ($3.99): Start from an atom and grow into a galactic empire. Everyone always has huge ambitions, here’s the chance to live it out.
Catenaccio Football Manager ($2.99): Think you’ve got the managerial chops to do better than the manager of your favorite football team?
My City: Hospital ($3.99): Ever wondered how is it like to run a hospital? Find out in this kid-friendly game.
Cuppy Ball ($0.99): Release the ball and make sure it avoids all obstacles to end up in a cup at the bottom.
The deals were live as of the publishing date. If you found an expired deal, please let us know via the comments below.
Note – beware of in-app purchases and ads!
Hidden in-app purchases and advertisements can be found in both paid and free apps, particularly in kid-friendly titles.
Many apps have the capacity to collect and distribute your personal data. It is critical to thoroughly review the permissions that each program seeks if you want to effectively secure your privacy. What possible use could an alarm clock app have for your contacts or camera, for example? Limiting the permissions granted to apps can help you better protect your data.
Enjoy the adventure of discovering a wealth of free applications on both Android and iOS, all while enjoying the confidence that your personal information is secure.
Enjoy the adventure of discovering a wealth of free applications on both Android and iOS, all while enjoying the confidence that your personal information is secure.
Amazfit BIP 5 is a low-cost smartwatch that uses the Zepp app to provide a wealth of health data in a crowded market of pricey models. The pricing range of Amazfit is smartwatches spans from the Balance to the newly launched T-Rex 3, with the BIP 5 being the most affordable model.
What does a $75 smartwatch bring you, then? A portion of what you might anticipate from an inexpensive gadget, but with some pleasant surprises as well. Based on the Amazfit range, the Amazfit BIP 5 is powered by Zepp, the all-inclusive software that functions nearly identically on all of the company’s smartwatches.
I used the BIP for two weeks straight, wearing it to the gym on a regular basis and on a trip to Europe. I found this watch to be a reliable companion for my workouts. The Zepp app offers a plenty of metrics and customization, making up for the watch’s lackluster hardware.
Amazfit Bip 5
Amazfit Bip 5 Smart Watch 46mm, GPS, Alexa Built-in, Bluetooth Calling, 10-Day Battery, Heart-Rate & VO2 Max, Sleep Health Monitoring, AI Fitness App, 120+ Sports Modes, for Android & iPhone, Black
I will start by saying that this watch has an excellent battery. When I went to Europe for six days, I did not even think to bring the charger, and I did not need to. I have been able to charge it once a week or so without any problems.
The second obvious feature that makes this watch stand out is its physical form. It does not necessarily look bad for a smartwatch that costs less than $100. The bracelet is simple and the 1.9-inch face is chunky, but at least it can be customized. While it is not as good as the expensive AMOLED screens on rival smartwatches, the display is nonetheless dependable and stutter-free.
In the end, it is a discreet-looking watch that does not draw attention to itself, and given that other smartwatches are determined to market themselves as fashion accessories, that feature deserves some consideration.
This is not a watch you want to wear in the shower or in the pool due to its lack of durability. It is not waterproof, however, it is splashproof thanks to its IP68 rating. I enjoy the outdoors, but I am not someone you will find running in the rain because I reside in New York. Rather, I want a smartwatch with accurate fitness metrics for the gym and reliable sleep monitoring.
Regarding the Amazfit BIP 5’s fitness tracking, I got mixed results. I discovered that the “exercise mode” on the watch is not actually functional for me when I took it to the gym. In this mode, the app will notify you to continue moving when your heart rate falls too low and will encourage you to maintain it elevated within a specific range.
My experience has shown that the heart rate monitor’s accuracy is not perfect. I was in the middle of a stride on the treadmill or a mid-squat on the rack, but the device kept telling me that my heart rate was too low and that I should “keep moving.”
If you do not change the parameters, it might be too intrusive for athletes who are accustomed to working out at the gym, but I can see this being helpful for someone who is focused on high-intensity interval circuit training.
Besides, it is not always clear to the device whether I am standing or sitting. I spend at least half of the day standing because I use a standing desk both at work and at home, but the BIP does not always pick it up.
I could not possibly attempt every one of the more than 120 sport measurement modes available on the BIP, but the ones I did try, like rowing, were beneficial but not particularly game-changing.
Nevertheless, the watch uses Zepp’s PAI score to measure a variety of variables. With the aim of reaching a weekly total of 100, the “personal activity indicator” is a statistic that gives you points each day based on cardiorespiratory measures from all sources (not just specified workouts).
Amazfit Bip 5
Amazfit Bip 5 Smart Watch 46mm, GPS, Alexa Built-in, Bluetooth Calling, 10-Day Battery, Heart-Rate & VO2 Max, Sleep Health Monitoring, AI Fitness App, 120+ Sports Modes, for Android & iPhone, Black
Personally, I think Zepp’s PAI method is great and it makes sense to assess your fitness and health via a variety of lenses rather to just ad hoc measures. The integrated GPS is another feature that runners will adore.
It can provide maps of your routes and a variety of stats related to your training, including statistics, achievement projections to track your progress, and workout templates.
There are not many unique connectivity features on the Amazfit BIP 5 because its primary functions are health-related, but the ones that are present are at least helpful. For instance, you can use the watch to control music playback when it is on your phone.
It also supports Alexa, so if you have a smart home setup, you can use the watch to provide orders. When it comes to its sleep-tracking features, the Zepp app—which is extensive and data-rich—carries the BIP 5. Because of this, it is a fantastic low-cost choice for those who wish to track their sleep but do not really need a fitness watch.
Zepp generates a progress report with a grade every morning, along with longer narrative reports created by AI that provide further meaning for your sleeping patterns. The measurements are not entirely correct, though.
Zepp frequently assumes that I am asleep when I am not, and on occasion, he even claims that my sleep was worse than it was. Zepp places a strong emphasis on regular sleep and wake hours, and even if you get a restful night’s sleep, it can still be very critical of deviations from this pattern.
On certain evenings, even when it was the weekend or I felt like I had gotten enough sleep, it would give me a 75–80 score rating and admonish me for deviating from my sleep routine.
Even if you are not aware of it, the gadget performs a decent job of identifying objects that interfere with your sleep.
For instance, after having a late-night cocktail, I was asked, “Hey, I observed your heart rate took a while to decrease last night,” when I woke up. “Did you consume booze before bed or eat late?” Cracked. Since it did interfere with my sleep in this instance, this level of insight—an overall theme to the watch’s capabilities—was unexpected and clever.
The date of Oppo’s annual Oppo Developer Conference (ODC) has been announced as October 17, which is around one month away. The unveiling of ColorOS 15 will be the event’s high point.
You can also infer what the new features will be about from the subject, “AI, One Step Closer.” Oppo will be exhibiting cutting-edge AI applications, technological innovation, novel approaches to enhancing user gaming experiences, insights into the future of transportation, and more during the ODC.
ColorOS 15 will include a new feature called AI note assistant, which can arrange your notes intelligently and make any necessary edits with only one click.
The OS and AI will be deeply integrated, and it appears that the main goals will be to enhance usability and performance. Based on Android 15, ColorOS 15 will include new features like enhanced multitasking on wide screens, private spaces, and device syncing of alerts.
Mid-October is when Android 15 (AOSP) is anticipated to be ready; ColorOS 15’s release schedule will be revealed during ODC.
The much awaited HyperOS 2.0 update from Xiaomi is soon to be available on a wide range of its devices, bringing with it a ton of new features, optimizations, and enhancements. It will probably be available on the majority of Xiaomi flagships, mid-range smartphones, tablets, and other devices sold under the Redmi and POCO subbrands.
What is new with HyperOS 2.0?
Prior to diving into the devices that will be receiving the update, let us examine the features that HyperOS 2.0 is expected to offer. Actually, this update will bring with it a number of intriguing features:
AI-Powered Features: More AI features in HyperOS 2.0 integration will take the user experience to the next level. From smart suggestions to more developed AI-assisted modes in the camera, AI integration has been improved across boards in Xiaomi devices.
New Animations: The interface will be much smoother, featuring faster animations, to give users a feel closer to polished and premium.
iOS-Style Recent Apps: Xiaomi wants to introduce a new layout for recent apps, much like the minimalistic and organized structure seen in iOS. This will hopefully make multitasking easier in Xiaomi devices.
LROFS File System: One of the biggest under-the-hood upgrades will be the introduction of the LROFS file system that promises to bring swiftness and efficiency in the way files are managed, thus making devices even quicker.
Performance Enhancements: In the case of addition of LROFS file system, among other optimisations, HyperOS 2.0 is most likely to render devices snappier, with quick app loading and efficient power management.
The official launch of HyperOS 2.0 is scheduled for October of this year, with a likely launch for a number of models shortly after.
Devices that will get HyperOS 2.0:
The list of devices that are most likely to get the HyperOS 2.0 update is provided below; it is based on Xiaomi’s past update trends as well as the significance of these models in their portfolio.
POCO F Series: POCO F4 GT, POCO F5, and POCO F6 Pro
POCO X Series: POCO X5 Pro 5G, POCO X6 5G, POCO X6 Neo
POCO M Series: POCO M6 Pro, POCO M6 Plus 5G, POCO M7 series
It is reported that the HyperOS 2.0 upgrade would be released for more than 60 Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices. Given the size and diversity of Xiaomi’s user base, millions of people will update as a result, making this likely to be one of the largest OS rollouts in Xiaomi history.
Expected Benefits for All User Groups
Flagship Device Owners-Negotiate premium gadgets, for instance, Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Xiaomi MIX Fold 3, with leading performance optimizations, faster processing, along with smoother UI.
Midrange Device Users: Users of popular mid-range models, like the Redmi K60 Pro or POCO F5, will find performance boosts and better multitasking features almost giving their devices a new feel.
Tablet Users: One UI 5.1 will further enhance the productivity functionality of tablet users with new multitasking layouts and split-screen functionality, among certain performance enhancements specific to the tablets like the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14.
In the end, Xiaomi is about to release HyperOS 2.0, a significant software update that will provide strong AI, optimal system performance, and the greatest possible user experiences for all of its many products. Customers who own these gadgets—from flagship phones to low-cost models—will undoubtedly take Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO’s changes into consideration. Whether you choose to wait for a new model like the Xiaomi 14 Ultra or are a frequent user of the Xiaomi Mi 11, HyperOS 2.0 claims to make your device smarter, faster, and more efficient. Await its official debut in October, and be prepared to be astounded by the far more sophisticated software that Xiaomi’s innovation will deliver!
Although we have known it was coming for almost a year, today is the day we have been waiting for: RCS compatibility is giving the texting experience between the stock messaging apps on Android and iPhone a significant boost. Rich conversations have long been supported by Android texting apps such as Google Messages, Samsung Messages, and many carrier apps, but iPhones may now use the protocol designed to replace SMS and MMS since Apple officially released iOS 18.
With the formal release of iOS 18 to the public channel, iPhone users worldwide will begin to receive an upgrade starting today. After installing the updated firmware, users will be able to receive RCS messages sent to their phone number via iMessage’s parent app, Apple Messages.
The official Android account on Twitter/X highlighted some of the features you may now take use of in a series of tweets to commemorate the milestone. Among the advantages you will probably notice are the ability to send high-quality images and videos, respond to messages with emoticons, and add and remove members in group chats at will.
“Apple is starting to #GetTheMessage and upgrade to RCS,” the Android account jokes, making fun of the green bubble issue and Google’s push to force Apple to adopt RCS.
No more blurry video chaos, now that Apple is starting to #GetTheMessage and upgrade to RCS.
Green bubbles are becoming more similar to blue bubbles.
Through the iOS 18 beta program, we had the opportunity to test the new RCS capabilities. Although there were still some bugs at the time, the standard features of an instant messaging client, such as read receipts, message replies, and higher file sizes, were all present. On iPhones, however, messages from Android devices continue to appear as green bubbles; only discussions between iMessage and iMessage are blue.
SAMSUNG Galaxy S24+ Plus – DEAL
SAMSUNG Galaxy S24+ Plus Cell Phone, 256GB AI Smartphone, Unlocked Android, 50MP Camera, Fastest Processor, Long Battery Life, US Version 2024 Cobalt Violet
RCS messaging between Android and iPhone enable in-transit encryption to assist prevent message interception, as Apple states in its documentation for the capability, but end-to-end encryption is not yet available for these messages.
It is confusing to note that Android-to-Android RCS chats do support E2EE because Google’s Jibe backend is used by both Samsung and Google’s Messages apps, which layered Signal’s encryption protocol over the RCS Universal Profile foundation. However, Apple’s RCS implementation only makes use of the Universal Profile standard’s functionalities. Although its incorporation into the Universal Profile is not assured, Google Messages was recently seen adding support for MLS, a new industry standard, to help with this.
Carrier assistance is an additional challenge to consider. A Google Fi representative clarified in a statement to 9to5Google that the iPhone manufacturer has not yet turned on its Google Fi MVNO and that “only Apple has the power to activate RCS compatibility for iPhone consumers” with certain mobile service providers. Nevertheless, iPhone RCS is currently available on all of the main US carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. We have also observed the service activating on Canadian carriers.
To start chatting over RCS with friends on iOS, you can set Google Messages as your default texting app, then make sure the other person has RCS enabled on their iPhone under Settings → Apps → Messages → RCS Messaging.
Google Messages
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