Category: OS

In‑depth coverage of any OS, new features, privacy tools and ecosystem changes to keep your devices current and secure.

  • 4 new Xiaomi devices receive stable HyperOS 2.2

    4 new Xiaomi devices receive stable HyperOS 2.2

    Users of Xiaomi should rejoice since the stable HyperOS 2.2 update is currently planned for four new devices. The software is now available on Xiaomi’s servers and is awaiting final staff testing before going public. As Xiaomi continues to roll out its most recent OS to an increasing number of devices across its wide range of products, this step marks another milestone in the company’s aggressive HyperOS rollout strategy.

    Xiaomi‘s emphasis on providing frequent software updates and keeping its ecosystem up to speed with the newest features is further highlighted by the new update, which promises to improve performance, battery life, and user experience for compatible phones.

    HyperOS 2.2 family has four new members.

    HyperOS 2.2 new devices

    Based on data found on Xiaomi’s update servers, the following devices are now set to upgrade to the stable HyperOS 2.2 update:

    • Redmi K70E: OS2.0.201.0.VNLCNXM
    • Redmi K70: OS2.0.201.0.VNKCNXM
    • Xiaomi 14 Pro: OS2.0.201.0.VNBCNXM
    • Xiaomi 14: OS2.0.201.0.VNCCNXM

    These builds are being tested by Xiaomi employees for the final time ahead of release, providing users everywhere with a smooth and bugless experience when the upgrade is rolled out.

    Previously Confirmed Devices

    The four new devices add to a number of already confirmed devices for which the HyperOS 2.2 stable update was announced:

    • Xiaomi 14
    • Xiaomi 14 Ultra
    • Xiaomi 15
    • Xiaomi 15 Pro
    • Xiaomi 15 Ultra
    • Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4

    This extended rollout reflects Xiaomi’s commitment to providing its most recent flagship models, as well as last generation models, with the most current software features.

    What HyperOS brings?

    The HyperOS 2.2 update features a number of significant upgrades for supported devices:

    • Enhanced system stability for all programs
    • Optimized battery management for increased usage hours
    • Smoother animation transitions across the interface
    • New Xiaomi HyperConnect features for effortless device connection

    In order to make Xiaomi smartphones competitive in the rapidly evolving smartphone market, these improvements build upon the strong basis of HyperOS 2, improving the user experience and adding new functions. For people who want to view the available updates,

  • Android 16 brings long waited great features

    Android 16 brings long waited great features

    There are some new features to look forward to with each Android update. Some updates include more new features than others, of course, because not all upgrades are made equal. There are a lot of exciting (rumored) features in Android 16 that are making me eager for its impending release.

    Note that I used the word “rumored.” This is because, with each release, there are online speculations about what people “think” will be included in Google’s newest and greatest upgrade. You never know what will make the final cut, so you should be skeptical of this list.

    However, I tested the Android 16 beta and searched the internet for all the best features that might be released this summer with Android 16 (using reputable websites like Android Authority, Android Police, Engadget, Android Developers, Business Today, Android Headlines, GSMArena, Android Update Tracker, and numerous forums), and here they are.

    Desktop Windowing

    When I see it, I’ll trust the rumors about this feature. The Samsung DeX, which enables users to connect an Android phone to an external display (through USB-C) and utilize a desktop-like interface that includes a top status bar, bottom taskbar, resizable, movable, snappable app windows, drag-and-drop support between apps, minimized windows, and physical keyboard and mouse support, will be mirrored by Desktop Windowing, which will bring desktop mode to Android phones.

    Desktop Windowing android 16 update

    App drawer blur

    Neither your phone’s performance nor your efficiency with it will improve as a result of this. But I’ve always found the Android app drawer to be rather dull. When you pull it down, the background is either black or white. While some home-screen launchers do let you change the appearance of the app drawer, the default home-screen launcher does not offer this feature. According to rumors, Android 16 will alter everything and give the app drawer a lovely backdrop blur.

    android 16 app drawer blur

    Although I acknowledge that not everyone believes that aesthetics are as significant as other factors, including performance and dependability, the iPhone’s UI aesthetics are one of the main factors contributing to its popularity. The Android user interface will be on a level playing field with iOS if Google implements a great app drawer blur.

    Live updates

    According to rumors, Android 16 will also provide a new class of real-time notifications that are intended to tell you of ongoing operations like food delivery, ridesharing updates, and navigation. These real-time updates will show up as dynamic “chips” in the status bar that show current data, like ridesharing arrival times or delivery ETAs.

    To keep you updated, a comprehensive notification pop-up displays beneath the status bar when you tap one of the live-update chips. Live updates are displayed above all other alerts (apart from the media player) under the Notification Shade.

    Auracast Broadcast audio support

    The inclusion of Auracast broadcast audio would be fantastic, so hopefully this rumor is accurate. Auracast broadcast audio is a Bluetooth LE Audio feature that enables devices such as earphones and hearing aids to receive direct audio broadcasts from TVs, public spaces, or announcement systems, in case you were unaware.

    screenshot 2024 11 20 at 6 37 57

    Anyone who uses LE Audio earbuds or hearing aids frequently finds oneself in awkward situations, such busy or noisy places where announcements are essential (like train stations, airports, or concerts). By pairing your earphones or hearing aids with Auracast Broadcast support, you can tune into the broadcast and hear everything much more clearly.

    Hybrid Auto Exposure in the camera

    If you love taking pictures, you’ll love this function. You’ll have more control over the camera’s exposure settings with the hybrid auto-exposure. You will have the option to manually change the ISO or exposure time (shutter speed) or rely on the auto-exposure algorithm, rather than relying solely on full manual or auto exposure.

    You will still have the simplicity and dependability of auto-exposure for everything else, but you will be able to adjust ISO to cut down on noise or select a precise shutter speed to get truly creative with your photos. Additionally, the Android 16 Camera app has enhanced support for high-quality image formats including HEIC and Ultra HDR, as well as accurate color-temperature and tint adjustments.

    APV Codec support

    Additionally, there are reports that Android 16 will support the APV codec. A professional-grade video format (created by Samsung) is included with the new native support for the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, enabling high-quality video recording, editing, and post-production.

    Frame tiling (to provide immersive content and parallel encoding/decoding for efficient processing), intra-frame-only coding (for simpler editing workflows and lower processing demands), high bit-rate support (2K, 4K, and 8K resolutions), and lossless video quality (nearly raw footage) are some of APV’s cool features.

    APV Codec support android 16 update

    Once more, Google has been promising this feature for a very long time, so I will believe it when I see it. If they were to ever implement this functionality, Android would become one of the most flexible operating systems available, which would be really awesome.

    Keep in mind that these are simply rumors, but I do think that most of the features mentioned above will be included in the final version of Android 16, which is also expected to be released in June 2025.

  • HyperOS 2.2 getting closer every day – non-flagship release date

    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.

    hyperos 2.2 update

    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:

    hyperos 2.2 update for devices

    These models are slated to become part of the update lineup soon, although there are no confirmed release dates.

  • May Android security update available for Pixel devices

    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.

    monthly pixel security update

    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.

  • Amazfit Active 2 receives a OS update

    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

    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.

    615JMD nXML. AC SL1500

    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

    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.

  • Samsung announces Galaxy devices getting One UI 7 in May 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.

    One UI 7 in May 2025

    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
  • HyperOS 3 – what features can you expect next

    HyperOS 3 – what features can you expect next

    A number of cutting-edge features from the soon-to-be released Android 16 will also be included in Xiaomi’s eagerly anticipated HyperOS 3, setting a new standard for mobile operating systems for the company’s diverse range of devices. HyperOS 3 will deliver cutting-edge capabilities that will transform how people use their devices as Xiaomi develops its ecosystem integration, adds cutting-edge security measures, and keeps improving its software experience.

    The upcoming upgrade is expected to offer an unparalleled combination of performance, functionality, and configurability, continuing Xiaomi’s tradition of perfecting the foundations of Android.

    HyperOS 3 new features

    Important changes to expect in HyperOS 3

    Android 16 will be the starting point for HyperOS 3 to introduce many significant upgrades that Xiaomi will probably enhance and build upon:

    • Live Updates: Delivery of information in real time without apps
    • Embedded Photo Picker: Simplified photo chooser interface
    • Improved Privacy Controls: Featuring the new Privacy Sandbox
    • WritingTools API: Enables apps to control access to AI writing tools

    Multimedia and Visual Enhancements

    HyperOS 3 is due to bring major upgrades to media capabilities:

    1. Camera Enhancements
      1. Hybrid auto-exposure for improved low-light photography
      2. Exact colour temperature controls Night mode Camera extension API
      3. Motion photo capture functionality
    2. Display Optimizations
      1. Improved Adaptive Refresh Rate support
      2. Forcing edge-to-edge app support
      3. Ultra HDR image enhancements

    These enhancements are a perfect fit for Xiaomi’s mission to deliver superior multimedia experiences across its line of devices, especially so across its camera-focused devices such as the latest Xiaomi 14 series.

    Performance and System Improvement

    The fundamental system architecture within HyperOS 3 will probably undergo major upgrades:

    • Vulkan: Presently the official graphics AkPI for Android
    • Cloud compilation: Quicker app installations
    • Improved app adaptability: Increased performance across device types
    • Software audio codecs in-process: Improved audio processing

    Xiaomi has consistently prioritized performance optimization in its previous operating systems, suggesting that HyperOS 3 would further enhance these features to allow for even higher responsiveness and speed.

    Connectivity and Accessibility Features

    HyperOS 3 is also anticipated to advance how people interface with their devices and one another:

    • Auracast broadcast audio support: Innovative audio sharing functionality
    • Volume controls for ambient sound: For hearing aids using LE Audio
    • Generic ranging APIs: Enhanced location services
    • Gemini Extensions: Extended AI assistant capabilities

    These features support Lei Jun’s idea of seamless integration throughout the Xiaomi product range and are evidence of Xiaomi’s continuous efforts to provide a simpler and more connected device ecosystem.

  • 5 One UI 7 features that you should now + sweet deals

    5 One UI 7 features that you should now + sweet deals

    There is no sugarcoating it. Samsung botched the deployment of One UI 7 on the top Galaxy phones. Still, it is one of the most significant redesigns in One UI history, adding an unmatched level of polish to the company’s appearance. You have surely heard about the Now Bar and the huge Galaxy AI improvements in One UI 7, but here are several tiny, underappreciated updates you might have overlooked.

    Double-tap playback controls in AOD

    Now Bar is one of the significant new features in One UI 7, promising to provide relevant information at the right time. It also works with Always-on Display, displaying softly at the bottom. This is not the only way Samsung enhanced the Always-on Display with One UI 7. You may now control media playback via the Always On Display (AOD).

    Double-tap playback controls in AOD one ui7

    If you lock your Galaxy phone running One UI 7 while media is playing, the playback controls show at the bottom of the Now Bar. A single tap does nothing, but double tapping the playback controls will play, pause, or skip the current song or movie.

    When you double-tap the album art, an expanded view of the media player appears, complete with larger controls and the ability to adjust media output.

    Vertical app drawer

    One UI 7 introduces a vertical app drawer to the One UI launcher. The option was included in One UI 5 and earlier releases, however it was deleted with Samsung’s Android 14-based One UI 5 update. The business promised to bring back the vertical app drawer with One UI 6.1.1, however this never happened.

    If you have hundreds of apps installed on your Galaxy phone, a vertical app drawer will help you to easily swipe through them. In true Samsung form, there is an anomaly in how the feature was implemented.

    one ui 7 Vertical app drawer

    Samsung does not specifically refer to it as a vertical app drawer. Instead, open the app drawer, hit the overflow menu button in the lower-left corner of the search bar, and choose Sort, then Alphabetical order. This converts the app drawer to a vertical style and organizes apps by name. You cannot move apps in this view, but you may position them within folders. Folders are located at the top, followed by applications and games.

    A useful feature of the vertical app drawer is the addition of a fast-scroll bar on the right, which allows you to swiftly skim through and jump to any portion of your app list. The Home Up Good Lock module, which was updated with One UI 7, allows for more customisation of the home screen and app drawer.

    Quick switch between the notification panel and Quick Settings

    Samsung used an iOS-like approach with One UI 7, separating the notification panel and Quick Settings into two sections. You can return to the former One UI 6-like layout, but sample this adjustment for a few days before making a decision.

    Quick switch between the notification panel and Quick Settings

    Compared to Apple’s distinct Quick Settings and notification panel design, Samsung’s method has one significant advantage. Swiping between the Quick Settings panel and the notification shade allows you to rapidly move between them. The same is true for phones from Xiaomi, Oppo, and OnePlus, all of which have long used separate Quick Settings and notification panels.

    Although Samsung was not the first to market with the idea, it made care to include a helpful change in One UI 7.

    Minimized pop-up apps group together

    Minimized pop-up apps group together one ui7

    Samsung’s Android skin includes a variety of useful multitasking capabilities, including the option to run programs in a pop-up view. This allows you to run many programs simultaneously and minimize them into a floating shortcut. When you minimize numerous apps in pop-up mode, your Galaxy phone’s display may appear cluttered.

    One UI 7 solves this problem by grouping the floating shortcuts of all minimized programs. Even better, there is a shortcut for launching all minimized apps at once. If you do not frequently utilize pop-up view multitasking on your Galaxy phone, you may disregard this as a minor modification. If you rely significantly on it, you will benefit from this modification.

    New charging animation

    Samsung’s work with One UI 7 is evident, from the smooth system animations to the general fluidity. The experience rivals iOS in polish and feels substantially better than other Android skins. You will not encounter sporadic lags or stutters. The new charging animation demonstrates Samsung’s attention to detail in One UI 7.

    One UI 7 Charging animation

    If you put in your Galaxy phone to charge when the display is turned off, a charging pill with a slick animation appears at the bottom, where the Now Bar resides. It does not appear in extreme brightness, but rather in a dimmed state. When you are in a dark room, the phone automatically adjusts the brightness to make it even darker. The charging information can be displayed even when the screen is turned off.

    One UI 7 is really improved

    Samsung’s Android skin offers a feature-rich experience, including useful multitasking options. Still, it felt like One UI lacked the polish and attention to detail that Pixel UI and iOS possessed.

    With One UI 7, Samsung steps up, demonstrating that when it wants to, it can create a professional and well-rounded Android experience while correcting some of its long-standing faults. So it is sad that the focus on One UI 7 is primarily on its rollout delays, rather than the polish and enhancements it delivers.

    SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 Ultra
    $1,299.99$1,067.99Amazon
    SAMSUNG Galaxy S24 FE
    $709.99$559.99Amazon
    SAMSUNG Galaxy S25
    $799.99$717.99Amazon
    SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 Pro AI
    $249.99 $199.99Amazon
  • WearOS receives more media controls on Pixel Watch 3

    WearOS receives more media controls on Pixel Watch 3

    Google has released rich media controls for the Pixel Watch, following the March 2025 Feature Drop teaser.

    Last month, Google teased the upgrade as such:

    • “Make it easier to control audio content from the watch with control types based on content being played (such as Podcasts within YouTube music).”
    • “Manage your favorite audio content with new actions on Pixel Watch to fast forward and rewind, adjust playback speed or control playback queue.”

    In the past, the Pixel Watch‘s system media controls only let you to change the volume, play/pause, and next/previous. This is on top of the tracking data for the music that is currently playing on your phone.

    By tapping the new button on the left, you can now see your Up Next queue in addition to those actions. With YouTube Music, this displays the next 24 tracks, which can be tapped to begin playing right now.

    media control wearos

    In the meanwhile, you can repeat, thumbs up, and shuffle a track (in YTM) with the three-dot overflow button on the right. For Up Next, you also receive an additional tablet.

    You may adjust the playback speed of podcasts (in YouTube Music), with each tap resulting in a larger increment. Additionally, you can go to the previous or next episode.

    pixel watch media control

    These updated media controls for the Pixel Watch are not supported by all apps. The extra features are grayed out in the screenshot below, which is from Pocket Casts (played on my phone).

    The Pixel Watch 3 running Wear OS 5.1 is where we are experiencing this, and you should confirm that “Wear Media” in the on-watch Play Store is completely current (version 1.6.7.x).

    Pixel Watch 3 1

    Google Pixel Watch 3

    The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 41mm screen is twice as bright and 10% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info.

    $349.99$299.99Amazon
  • HyperOS 3 update: eligible devices

    HyperOS 3 update: eligible devices

    Xiaomi is still updating a variety of devices with the HyperOS 2.1 upgrade, which is based on Android 15. However, all eyes are now on HyperOS 3, which is based on Android 16, the upcoming major release. This one will come with enormous improvements in terms of performance, features, and design.

    Xiaomi to roll out HyperOS 3 update based on Android 16

    Android 16 1

    A recent article from XiaomiTime states that the release of HyperOS 3 is anticipated to be in July 2025. Although Xiaomi has not yet released an official announcement regarding the complete list of devices, the report offers us a good idea of which models should be updated. Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices will be included in the upgrade, demonstrating the company’s dedication to providing long-term software support.

    What to Expect in HyperOS 3

    HyperOS 3.0 e1745555193567

    Improved multitasking, improved battery life optimization, more intelligent AI-based capabilities, and a redesigned user interface are just a few of the many new features that HyperOS 3 is said to offer. It is anticipated that a primary focus will be on improving device integration and performance, particularly with regard to tablets and foldables.

    xiaomi 15 silicon carbon battery

    Xiaomi 15 5G

    Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform3nm manufacturing processCPU2 x Prime Core, up to 4.32GHz6 x Performance Core, up to 3.53GHzGPUAdreno GPUAIQualcomm AI engine.

    Leica Summilux optical lensLEICA VARIO-SUMMILUX 1:1.62-2.2/14-60 ASPHLeica main camera50MPLight Fusion 900 image sensor2.4μm 4-in-1 Super Pixelf/1.62OIS23mm equivalent focal lengthLeica 60mm floating telephoto50MPf/2.0OIS60mm equivalent focal lengthLeica ultra-wide camera50MPf/2.214mm equivalent focal length115°. 32MP FRONT CAMERA

    $947.50$900.00Amazon

    Expected Devices to Receive HyperOS 3

    Xiaomi Devices:

    • Xiaomi 15, 14, 13, and 12 series
    • MIX Flip, Flip 2
    • MIX FOLD 2, 3, and 4
    • Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro, 6S Pro, 7, and 7 Pro

    Redmi Devices:

    • Redmi Note 12, 13, and 14 series (4G, Turbo, and Pro models)
    • Redmi 12, 13, and 14 series (C and A models)
    • Redmi K50, K60, K70, and K80 series
    • Redmi Pad SE, Pad SE 8.7, Pad Pro, and Pad Pro 5G

    POCO Devices:

    • POCO F5, F5 Pro, F6, F6 Pro, F7, F7 Pro, and F7 Ultra
    • POCO X6 5G, X6 Pro 5G, X7, X7 Pro, and X7 Pro Iron Man Edition special edition
    • POCO M6 (4G, 5G, and Pro versions), M7, and M7 Pro 5G
    • POCO C65, C75, and C75 5G

    With a wider rollout, Xiaomi will gradually introduce the most recent Android experience across a diverse range of devices. It is likely that HyperOS 3 will improve on everything you do on a flagship, mid-range, or low-cost phone. Xiaomi is going to make the announcement, so keep a look out!