One UI 7 won’t copy the iPhone’s Dynamic Island, tipster says

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One UI 7 won’t copy the iPhone’s Dynamic Island, tipster says
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The abundant leaks about One UI 7 in recent days suggest that the update is very close. A recent report states that the registration stage will start on July 29. Some of the UI tweaks that the update will bring were also leaked, among which was a potential iPhone’s Dynamic Island version for Galaxy devices. However, it looks like that won’t happen in the end.

Clues about a possible adaptation of the Dynamic Island feature in One UI 7 began after a post by tipster Chun Bhai on X. Bhai had access to early versions of the OS, leaking some of the UI changes. However, the source may have misinterpreted the One UI 7 feature due to its shape and placement, making him think it was a copy of the iOS one. Samsung-focused tipster Ice Universe came out on X to deny the claims.

One UI 7 ellipse icon will only work for prompting, not as a Dynamic Island

According to Ice Universe, what Chun Bhai saw is actually an “ellipse icon on the status bar for prompting.” So, it will not work as the Dynamic Island of iPhone devices, but as a pop-up indicator in the status bar. Ice Universe included a screenshot showing that One UI 6 already had a similar icon for ongoing call info. Now, it looks like the icon will gain more capabilities in One UI 7. The post claims that it will be able to display time-related data for more apps.

It will be interesting to see how broad the app support for the new ellipse icon will be. It may only work with Samsung’s own apps. Also, the Ice Universe post suggests that it won’t be very interactive, allowing you to simply launch an app after tapping it. It seems that it will just be a more aesthetic way of displaying time-related notifications and improving multitasking.


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Google Phone app is getting on-device AI anti-scam protection

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Google Phone app is getting on-device AI anti-scam protection
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Google Phone should soon have anti-scam capabilities powered by AI. Specifically speaking, Gemini Nano Artificial Intelligence (AI) would be able to detect spam calls as well as scam calls.

APK Teardown reveals Gemini Nano anti-scam protection for Google Phone

The Google Phone app is usually the default call management platform for Android smartphones. It has a decent spam call detection engine which either blocks the spam call or alerts users with a warning. It would soon allow reverse call lookups as well.

Moving forward, the Google Phone app could get an anti-scam engine powered by Gemini AI. Google has already deployed spam detection on Pixel devices. The same feature could be extended to include scam calls.

The upcoming feature reportedly spotted inside Google Phone version 138.0.654539475 beta release, is codenamed “Sharpie”. Google demoed the Gemini Nano AI-powered scam call detection inside the Google Phone app at the recent Google I/O event.

Google claims the feature can “provide real-time alerts during a call if it detects conversation patterns commonly associated with scams.” Several strings of code inside the beta version of the Google Phone app reportedly indicate the new feature would be able to distinguish between spam and scam calls. Android smartphone users would be able to manually report calls as well if the Phone app lets a potential scam call through.

Incidentally, Google has developed and tweaked Gemini Nano for smartphones. This suggests most of the AI processing will take place on the device to protect privacy. However, this could also mean several devices that lack capable hardware, might not get this feature.

Is Google forcing Gemini Nano Gen AI through backend channels?

Google won’t be forcibly embedding Gemini Nano AI into the Google Phone app. Android smartphone users relying on the Google Phone app will get a choice. In other words, the Gemini Nano AI for Google Phone could be an opt-in service when it arrives.

 

Spam calls have been getting easier to spot and block. However, scam calls are quite clever and creative. Moreover, scammers continually improve to evade suspicion and detection.

Scam calls usually target some of the least tech-savvy smartphone users. This makes awareness campaigns futile. If an AI engine can help spot a potential scam call, Android smartphone users could exercise caution and protect themselves.


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Google Home public preview adds original Nest Doorbell support and AI-powered garage door detection

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Google Home public preview adds original Nest Doorbell support and AI-powered garage door detection
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Google is expanding the Google Home app experience to encompass more Nest devices. Initially compatible with the first-generation Nest Cam Indoor and Outdoor, the app now supports the original wired Nest Doorbell through its Public Preview program. This progressive rollout will allow users to seamlessly integrate their doorbell into the broader ecosystem of smart devices managed within the app.A standout feature of this update is the redesigned camera history interface. Users can now effortlessly toggle between a chronological timeline view and an event-based list, providing flexible ways to review recorded footage. This enhancement simplifies the process of locating specific events or monitoring activity over time, offering a more user-friendly experience. Furthermore, this new feature is accessible both through the Google Home app and on the Google Home website, ensuring convenience for users who prefer different platforms.
Google Home public preview adds original Nest Doorbell support and AI-powered garage door detection

Google Home app camera UI before and after transferring camera to Public Preview with event list and timeline views | Image credit — Google

In addition to expanding device compatibility, Google is also introducing innovative features powered by AI. One such feature is garage door detection, available to Nest Cam users with a Nest Aware subscription. This intelligent feature leverages image recognition to determine whether a garage door is open or closed. It’s a simple yet practical way to bolster home security without the need for additional hardware or sensors. During setup, users have the flexibility to position their camera either inside or outside the garage, prioritizing an unobstructed view of the door for optimal functionality.
Google Home public preview adds original Nest Doorbell support and AI-powered garage door detection

AI-powered Google Home garage door detection | Image credit — Google

Beyond these updates, Google is actively seeking user feedback through its Public Preview program. This initiative allows users to test new features and provide valuable insights that contribute to the continuous improvement of the Google Home experience. This user-centric design ensures that the Google Home ecosystem remains a top choice for Smart Home enthusiasts, catering to the ever-changing needs and preferences of the users.

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Google Play Store subscriptions page gets better transparency

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Google Play Store subscriptions page gets better transparency
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The Google Play Store subscription page will soon include a lot more information. The Android app store will have better transparency and offer several more details justifying the value of subscriptions.

Google Play Store Subscriptions page to be revamped

Besides one-time purchases, there are several other ways to monetize content on the Google Play Store. The Android app store also offers services and free apps/games with advertisements. However, the increasingly lucrative option for monetization is subscriptions.

Google is well aware of the Play Store’s potential. Hence, the company recently announced several fundamental changes and improvements to the Android app store. Along with these changes, Google also demoed a new version of the Subscriptions page UI (User Interface).

The modified version of the Subscriptions page will gradually start offering a lot more information, indicated Google. The most important information subscribers would appreciate could be the justifications.

Specifically speaking, the new Play Store subscriptions page will highlight the benefits and potential losses of canceling subscriptions. Currently, the Subscriptions page is quite limited. It only lists the names and prices of active and expired subscriptions.

Besides showing active and expired subscriptions, Google will also reveal how much a subscriber is paying for each subscription. The company will also retain buttons that allow subscribers to remove or re-subscribe expired subscriptions.

Google pushing for transparency and better management

Google urges Android device users to pay using the Google Play billing system to purchase apps, services, and subscriptions. Android users who sign up using Google’s Play Store billing system get a centralized console to manage their purchases.

The Payment and Subscriptions sub-menu is accessible from the Play Store’s main menu. The upcoming update should significantly improve transparency and clarity about subscriptions.

The new update essentially promises it would allow users to make informed decisions. Specifically speaking, subscribers would be able to quickly decide whether to retain a subscription or cancel the same.

Google hasn’t committed to a firm launch date for the new Play Store subscriptions page. However, the company has reportedly indicated that Android users should start seeing changes in the next few months. Needless to say, Google is expected to gradually release the new Play Store update to Android devices.


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A new “Google One Lite” plan may be on the way as a budget option

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A new “Google One Lite” plan may be on the way as a budget option
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A new and more affordable Google One subscription tier, tentatively named “Google One Lite,” may be on the horizon for Android users. This potential new tier was discovered within the code of the latest Google Photos app update, suggesting a strong connection to Google’s photo services.

While details are still scarce, the code reveals that Google One Lite would likely be positioned as a more budget-friendly option compared to the existing Basic, Premium, and AI Premium plans. This could mean that Google One Lite might offer a smaller storage allowance or fewer family-sharing options than the current Basic plan. Here are the current Google One plans and their features:

  • Free: 15GB storage
  • Basic: 100GB storage for Photos, Drive and Gmail. Family sharing for up to five members.
  • Premium: 2TB storage, all the benefits of Basic, plus additional Google Photos editing tools, Google Workspace premium features, and 10% cashback on Google Store purchases.
  • AI Premium: 2TB storage, all the benefits of. Premium, plus access to Gemini Advanced AI-powered features.
A new “Google One Lite” plan may be on the way as a budget option

Google One’s current plan structure

However, there’s also speculation that Google might revamp its entire Google One pricing structure, potentially introducing new features to the existing plans and positioning Google One Lite as the new entry-level option. This could mean that Google One Lite would retain the same price and benefits as the current Basic plan, while the other tiers would see price increases or additional features.Another possibility is that Google One Lite could be bundled with some of its upcoming smartphones, like the Pixel 9, as a way to entice users into the Google One ecosystem. This would allow Google to offer limited benefits, such as access to new Google Photos features or a small amount of cloud storage, with the purchase of a new device.

It’s important to note that these are all just speculations based on the code found within the Google Photos app. Google has not yet officially confirmed the existence of Google One Lite or any details about its features or pricing.

It remains to be seen how Google One Lite would fit into the current lineup. However, its potential introduction could be good news for budget-minded users who are looking for a more affordable way to access Google One’s cloud storage and other benefits. Hopefully, this discovery turns out to be a product that Google will integrate soon into its current offerings.


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This is the Google Pixel 9 Pro in All 4 Colors

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This is the Google Pixel 9 Pro in All 4 Colors
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With Google’s August 13th event fast approaching, excitement for the Pixel 9 Pro is reaching a fever pitch. Thanks to Onleaks, we have an exclusive early look at the smaller Pixel 9 Pro variant, distinguished by its glossy sides.

These renders reveal a sleek design that departs from previous models, featuring a distinctive camera bar and flat sides that add a modern touch. The phone boasts a vibrant 6.3-inch display, perfect for immersive media consumption and productivity. Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro is rumored to pack a powerful punch with the new Tensor G4 processor and a generous 16GB of RAM. Google is also embracing a wider range of colors, offering Obsidian, Porcelain, Rose, and Hazel.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the Pixel 9 Pro’s camera setup, which appears to mirror the Pixel 8 Pro’s impressive capabilities. It includes a 50-megapixel primary sensor, a 48-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 48-megapixel telephoto lens, promising exceptional photo quality. It’s shaping up to be a pretty impressive flagship phone for those who want a smaller device.

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Google’s Pixel 9 Pro will go official on August 13

The Google Pixel 9 series in its entirety will be announced on August 13. This includes the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This will be the first time that Google has offered a “small” flagship model. Previously, Google has left some features off of the smaller phone, like the telephoto sensor or offering it with a lower-resolution display. Now, those that wanted a “small” flagship phone, will be happy with the Pixel 9 Pro. The only thing they may not be happy about is the price tag – we expect it to be around $899 or $999.

We will be at Google’s event in Mountain View to get hands-on and first impressions on all of Google’s brand new Pixel devices. And we can’t wait.


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Samsung’s One UI 7 beta program may start on July 29

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Samsung’s One UI 7 beta program may start on July 29
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The latest developments suggest that the Android 15-based One UI 7 update announcement is very close. A recent leak showed some of the UI tweaks it would bring. Now, a new report claims that Samsung’s One UI 7 beta will start on July 29.

One UI 7 could be one of the Galaxy device updates with the most aesthetic changes in years. This is not strange, since software products usually undergo a UI revamp from time to time to offer a fresher experience. Multiple new features and other improvements are also expected. That said, the UI tweaks leaked so far have generated divided reactions among users. However, there are things that could change before the rollout.

One UI 7 beta program would start on Monday for eligible Samsung devices

Be that as it may, an Allround-PC report claims that enrollments for Samsung’s One UI 7 beta will start on Monday, July 29. Normally, the US and Korea are the first regions to get the One UI betas, and this would be no exception. As usual, those interested will have to sign up for the beta once it is available through the Samsung Members app.

While the US and Korea could receive the beta first, other countries would have to wait a few weeks. The stable rollout usually begins after a few months of beta testing, first on flagship Galaxy devices. Samsung is the company that offers the longest software support for all its ranges of devices in the Android industry. So, many phones are expected to receive the new update in the coming months.

According to reports, Samsung is redesigning its own app icons. The resemblance of some to iOS icons has been criticized by several users. The most obvious seems to be the new Gallery app icon, which seems like a reinterpretation of its iOS equivalent. The company also redesigned the Camera app to make it easier to use with one hand. There are also tweaks to the status bar icons, like a thick pill-shaped battery indicator.


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Epic Games pulling Fortnite from Galaxy Store just as the game returns to iOS in the EU

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Epic Games pulling Fortnite from Galaxy Store just as the game returns to iOS in the EU
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Epic Games has just announced that Fortnite and other Epic Games titles will be leaving the Samsung Galaxy Store. This is in protest of Samsung’s decision to block side-loading by default on their Android devices, which Epic Games considers anti-competitive.

The decision above is a response to revelations in the US Epic v Google lawsuit about Google’s proposals to Samsung to limit competition in the Android app distribution market. However, there is a silver lining, as Fortnite is set to return to iOS devices in the European Union.

Additionally, the Epic Games Store, a platform for PC games, is coming to Android devices globally and iOS devices in the European Union. This is great news for developers, as Epic Games is offering them favorable terms, charging a 12% fee for payments they process and 0% for third-party payments.

Epic Games is also planning to make their own mobile games, including Fortnite, available on other mobile stores that offer what they consider to be fair deals to all developers. The company claims to be taking a stand against stores that act as “rent collectors” without offering robust competition or fair treatment to developers, even if those stores offer special deals for Epic’s own games.


Excitingly, Epic Games also announced that their mobile games will be available on AltStore for iOS devices in the EU, and they plan to announce support for at least two other third-party stores soon.

This shift in strategy is due to Epic’s long-standing advocacy for fair competition among stores on iOS and Android. They believe that progress is being made globally through regulations like Europe’s DMA and similar laws in the UK and Japan, as well as regulatory investigations worldwide and the victory in the Epic v Google lawsuit in the US. 

As the operator of the Epic Games Store, they claim to want to take advantage of this opportunity to offer developers a great deal on their platform. Furthermore, thee company is urging its user-base to stay tuned for further updates as they prepare to roll out their mobile launch.


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Oppo Find X8 Ultra will bring a huge battery in a slim body

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Oppo Find X8 Ultra will bring a huge battery in a slim body
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This year, the Oppo Find X7 Ultra was proclaimed as one of the best mobile flagships for its camera performance. Sadly, the device remains a China exclusive, but its successor is expected to reach international markets. Now, a company executive has given clues about the thickness and battery capacity of the Oppo Find X8 Ultra.

Zhou Yibao, product manager of the OPPO Find series, confirmed that the X8 Ultra is in development. While he didn’t offer many technical details, he confirmed that the device will have a slimmer profile than the current Find X7 Ultra. For reference, the latter has a thickness of 9.5 mm, being one of its points to improve. However, it seems that thickness will not be an issue on the next-gen model.

Oppo Find X8 Ultra will be thinner than the X7 Ultra, but with more battery

That said, it’s impressive that the company will reduce the thickness of the Oppo Find X8 Ultra while increasing its battery capacity. The X7 Ultra has a 5,000 mAh cell, a standard figure among modern flagship mobile devices. However, this year, big Chinese companies are taking this section to a new level. According to Yibao, the smartphone will have a battery of around 6,000 mAh.

Recently, OnePlus unveiled a 6,100 mAh battery powered by proprietary Glacier technology. Glacier allows higher density batteries, which translates into greater capacity in less space. In fact, the 6,100 mAh Glacier battery is said to have similar dimensions to traditional 5,000 mAh batteries. Oppo and OnePlus are “sibling” companies and usually share technologies. Therefore, Oppo will probably turn to Glacier technology for the battery of its Find X8 Ultra. This would explain the reduction in thickness and the giant increase in capacity.

Yibao also confirmed that the body of the device will have IP68 certification. Other expected specs include a quad-curved OLED LTPO display (120 Hz, QHD+) and a powerful rear camera system with two periscope sensors.


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OpenAI’s search engine is SearchGPT, but you’ll have to wait

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OpenAI’s search engine is SearchGPT, but you’ll have to wait
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We’ve been covering news about an AI-powered search engine from OpenAI for the past couple of months, but rumors dried up for a bit. Well, it’s no longer a rumor; OpenAI’s search engine is now official, and it’s called SearchGPT. This is good news for people who were waiting for this, but it’s bad news because most people are going to have to continue waiting.

OpenAI’s search engine is here, and it’s called SearchGPT

Already, OpenAI’s already cornered the generative AI market with its powerful models. That has Google in a huff, but it hasn’t touched the search engine market yet. That’s Google’s bread and butter, no matter how much it’s been messing up the algorithm.

In OpenAI’s case, this search engine will be just like any other search engine, but with an AI twist. Rather than being like a traditional search engine that relies on specific keywords, SearchGPT will be able to understand natural language.

When you enter your search query, the search engine will give you an AI-generated answer in ChatGPT style. However, it will source a couple of links. There will be a button off to the side that will surface more links that you can follow.

What’s neat about this search engine is that you’ll be able to ask follow-up questions about what you just searched. So, it’s just like using ChatGPT, but it links out to other sources and provides additional information.

Can’t wait to use it? Well, you’re going to have to

This search engine isn’t available to everyone just yet. If you want to use SearchGPT, you’ll need to get on the waitlist. Go to the official website if you want to join the waitlist. We have no idea how long you’re likely to be on the waitlist before you can use it, but you might want to join ASAP to get the best spot that you can get.

When this launches, you can bet that Google will take notice. The company has the most popular search engine in the world, and some people call it a monopoly. It’s about time that it had some competition. However, we wonder if OpenAI is the company to give it the competition.


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