WhatsApp beta update streamlines video replies with new shortcut

andreasc
-
0
WhatsApp beta update streamlines video replies with new shortcut
[ad_1]

Image credit — PhoneArena

WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, continues to evolve its features to enhance user experience. In its latest beta update for Android (2.24.14.5), WhatsApp is introducing a new shortcut that streamlines the process of replying to video messages. This update is a significant step towards making video communication more seamless and intuitive within the app.The new shortcut appears as a small button next to video messages in chats. Tapping this button instantly opens the video recorder, allowing users to create and send their video response without any additional steps. This eliminates the previous need to navigate through menus or use specific gestures, saving users time and effort.
WhatsApp beta update streamlines video replies with new shortcut

New shortcut appearing next to a video message allowing for a quick reply | Image credit — WABetaInfo

While this feature is currently rolling out to beta testers, it’s expected to be available to all users soon. WhatsApp has been actively improving its video messaging capabilities, and this update is another example of its efforts to providing a user-friendly experience.

The quick reply shortcut complements other recent enhancements, such as the ability to forward video messages and improvements to video message quality. The growing demand for video-based interactions seems to be driving WhatsApp to position itself as a platform for both text and video messaging.

For users who frequently exchange video messages, this new shortcut will undoubtedly be a welcome addition. It not only simplifies the reply process but also encourages more spontaneous and dynamic conversations.


As it is for now a beta feature, it’s currently not available to all WhatsApp users. However, it is expected that the feature will roll out to even more users in the coming days or weeks until it eventually reaches the stable build.

As a WhatsApp users, I am definitely looking forward to trying this out. Unfortunately, getting access to the beta version of WhatsApp via the Play Store is next to impossible these days, as there is almost always a waiting list. Thankfully, it doesn’t look like we have a lot longer to wait to get this on the official version of the app.


[ad_2]
Source link

Google Wallet now works as a hotel key

andreasc
-
0
Google Wallet now works as a hotel key
[ad_1]

Google has introduced a much-awaited functionality for the Google Wallet service. The popular digital wallet on Android devices now works as a hotel key. Google Wallet has gained support for hotel keys just in time for the summertime. The new feature makes the hotel experience of travelers a bit less of a hassle. They can now directly use their phones to open their hotel rooms, without requiring a physical hotel key.

Google Wallet finally gets support for hotel key functionality

Google has quietly added the support for the hotel keys functionality for Google Wallet. First spotted by 9to5google, the company has updated the support pages for Google Wallet with details of the new feature. You can now save and store keys at hotels that support this functionality in your Google Wallet. Notably, Apple Wallet already launched this feature way back in 2021 for the iPhone and Apple Watch.

Users can save and use their keys at hotels where the new feature is supported

According to Google Wallet’s support pages, users can now save and use their keys at hotels where the new feature is supported. Once keys are stored in your Google Wallet on your Android phone, you can “safely and securely use your keys to access your Hotels, guestrooms and key card-protected common areas like gyms, pools, and elevators throughout the duration of your stay”, mention the support pages.

Registering a key to your Google Wallet is quite similar to adding a credit or debit card. You can first visit your hotel’s website, or app, or follow email instructions. Then click on the “Add to Google Wallet” option, which should be next to the reservation confirmation page on the aforementioned options. If the “Add to Google Wallet” option isn’t visible, then the hotel may not have support for this feature.

Once the hotel key is added, you can wake up and unlock your smartphone first. Then, proceed to hold the back of your phone near the door handles to open rooms or other allocated areas of the hotel premises. The support pages also mention that some hotels may allow you to use your digital hotel key without unlocking your phone.

As of now, only a very few hotels support Google Wallet’s new hotel key feature. The Clarion Hotel Post in Gothenburg, Sweden is one of the first hotels to support this functionality. Hopefully, Google is collaborating with major hotel chains to expand the availability of the new feature in the coming weeks.


[ad_2]
Source link

Google just made Waze a “Minion” times more fun

andreasc
-
0
Google just made Waze a “Minion” times more fun
[ad_1]

Image credit — Waze (Google)

Waze, the popular Google-owned navigation app, is now offering a new driving experience based on the movie “Despicable Me 4,” which will be released in theaters on July 3rd. The Minions, the beloved characters from the franchise, are taking over the app and will be providing custom navigation instructions with their trademark humor and chaotic energy.There are two different moods to choose from: “Despicable” and “Mega Despicable.” In “Despicable” mode, users can expect to hear the Minions grumbling if they encounter traffic, while in “Mega Despicable” mode, the Minions will react more dramatically, perhaps even screaming to suggest taking a different route. Users will also have the option to change their vehicle icon in the app to Gru’s famous car, the Gru-Mobile.

You can now be a Minion on the road with Waze | App screenshots credit — PhoneArena

This new feature is available worldwide and offers voice navigation in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. To access this experience, users need to make sure they have the latest version of the Waze app. Once updated, they can find the “Despicable Me 4” banner in the app’s left menu or activate it directly.
It’s worth noting that this feature is optional, and users can choose to disable it if they prefer the standard Waze experience. Additionally, the voice navigation feature is currently only available in the aforementioned languages, so users who speak other languages may not be able to fully experience the Minions’ dialogue.

More Fun on the Road with Waze

Waze isn’t new to offering fun and themed driving experiences. The app frequently adds new celebrity voices and other unique features to enhance the driving experience. This latest collaboration with “Despicable Me 4” is just one example of how Waze continues to innovate and provide users with enjoyable and personalized navigation options.Waze has always been known for its focus on community and user engagement. This “Despicable Me 4” collaboration is another example of how the app listens to its users and provides features that align with their interests. This particular feature is a fun and engaging way for fans of the “Despicable Me” franchise to celebrate the upcoming movie and add a touch of humor to their daily commute. Think of it as the “fun” version of Google Maps.

[ad_2]
Source link

Leaked official case images show off Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6

andreasc
-
0
Leaked official case images show off Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6
[ad_1]

Samsung‘s Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 have leaked in almost every way imaginable, and now you can add a leak that includes official Samsung case images to that list. Samsung is expected to officially announce the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Galaxy Z Flip 6 at its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event on July 10. The company has officially confirmed the upcoming event. In fact, the official event announcement even contains a teaser image and animation about what devices will appear.

Clearly, it’ll be Samsung’s next-generation foldable phones. Samsung hasn’t officially shown these devices off yet but that doesn’t matter much. They’ve both been leaked a fair number of times by now making the design known to the public In the latest leak, both phones are shown inside of a series of Samsung’s official cases.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galax Z Flip 6 leak in official case images

Spotted by 9To5Google, these images show off each of the two devices in a series of different case options. The images were leaked by @MysteryLupin on X, though not like you would normally think. Usually with these kinds of leaks, the images are posted directly to X in a thread. This time around, the images were uploaded to a PostImage page, with the page being shared on X in a sort of mysterious tweet.

The images can be seen below and while you can’t see the actual backs of the phones, you can still see plenty. The rear camera array on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a dead match for the previously leaked images of the device. As are the cover display cameras on the Galaxy Z Flip 6. More importantly, though, you get an idea of what Samsung plans to offer with these official accessories. One case looks to offer a kickstand in addition to a hand grip. Meanwhile, another will have just the hand grip.

There’s also a Slim S Pen case again. So you have a place to store the S Pen should you get one. As for the Galaxy Z Flip 6, there’s only one case option shown. However, it is shown in a few different colors. It’s also got a ring attachment. You should be able to slip your finger through this or use it to clip the phone to something.

There’s no information cost just yet

It’s unclear exactly what these cases will cost. But they’re official from Samsung so they probably won’t be dirt cheap. More likely they’ll be at least $50. If you look at the S Pen Case for the Galaxy Z Fold 5, it’s currently available from Samsung for $100. It’s also on sale for $80 at Best Buy. So expect prices for these new cases to be close to the prices on the previous models.


[ad_2]
Source link

Google’s Find My Device network to get reliability improvements soon

andreasc
-
0
Google’s Find My Device network to get reliability improvements soon
[ad_1]

Google has been rolling out its enhanced Find My Device network across the globe in a gradual manner over the past few months. Over time, the search titan has also been improving features of the network. The company is already tipped to make it easier to remotely lock your Android device using the Find My Device network.

A recent report also suggested that the network may soon get AR directions and UWB support. Now, Google’s Find My Device network is all set to get various reliability improvements soon.

Find My Device network will become more reliable with upcoming improvements

In the past few weeks, users of Find My Device-compatible trackers like Pebblebee Tag have reported tracking issues with their devices. Google’s crowdsourced tracking networking reportedly doesn’t always work or offer proper tracking. However, the company has allegedly acknowledged the problem. According to Android expert Mishaal Rahman, Google’s Find My Device network will soon be more reliable, thanks to the upcoming improvements.

In a statement shared by Rahmaan, Google notes that it will soon be enhancing the Find My Device network. The upcoming updates will improve the speed and ability of the network, which will offer enhanced tracking of lost items. Besides, the company said that the network’s reliability will improve gradually over time as more and more devices join it.

Google is advising users to change network’s settings for improved tracking of lost items

As more devices continue to support the Find My Device network, it will provide improved tracking of lost items. Google is also suggesting Bluetooth tag owners change their Find My Device network setting to “With network in all areas”. This will help improve the network’s lost device findability capabilities in lower-traffic areas.

By default, this setting is set to “With network in high-traffic areas only”. This helps users track their lost or tracker-tagged devices using recent locations in busy areas like airports and footpaths. As per the company’s statement, the new updates to the Find My Device network will be rolled out in the coming weeks.


[ad_2]
Source link

Google confirms future improvements to the “Find My Device” network for more accurate tracking

andreasc
-
0
Google confirms future improvements to the “Find My Device” network for more accurate tracking
[ad_1]

Google is taking significant steps to improve the reliability of its Find My Device network, acknowledging recent performance concerns highlighted in tests with trackers like the ones offered by Chipolo and Pebblebee. In the statement seen below, the tech giant confirmed that it is actively rolling out enhancements aimed at boosting the speed and accuracy of locating lost items through this network.

While these improvements are in progress, Google recommends users proactively optimize their tracker’s performance by adjusting a specific setting. Navigate to the Find My Device section within your Security & privacy settings and select the ‘Find your offline devices’ option. Switching the setting to ‘With network in all areas’ can help improve the network’s ability to pinpoint lost items, particularly in areas with lower user traffic.Despite this setting adjustment, it’s important to note that the most significant improvements in location accuracy and speed are expected to become noticeable only after Google’s broader network enhancements are fully implemented in the coming weeks.

For those who haven’t yet invested in a tracker compatible with Google’s enhanced Find My Device network, the recently announced Moto Tag presents an appealing alternative. This tracker boasts a built-in UWB (Ultra-Wideband) chip, a feature that enables precise location tracking when communicating with other UWB-enabled devices. Notably, this advanced technology is not currently available in other Bluetooth trackers like the Chipolo and Pebblebee models, even those with similar price points.

The combination of Google’s ongoing network improvements and the introduction of innovative trackers like the Moto Tag signals a promising future for the Find My Device ecosystem. Users can anticipate soon having an increasingly reliable and efficient experience in locating their misplaced belongings.

[ad_2]
Source link

Rabbit R1 potential security issue could expose user data

andreasc
-
0
Rabbit R1 potential security issue could expose user data
[ad_1]

The news surrounding the Rabbit R1 has not been the best since its launch. From reports of poor functionality to the many features still pending, the AI-powered assistant has fallen short of expectations. Now, it appears that a security issue in the Rabbit R1 code could lead to a potential data breach.

If you’re even a little familiar with the Rabbit R1, the name “Rabbitude” may be familiar to you. Rabbitude is a community project to reverse engineer the device and its software. The team publishes its findings from time to time, and the most recent one is a bit worrying. According to the Rabbitude team, the Rabbit R1 code includes some APIs that offer access to all the responses given by the device.

Some APIs of the Rabbit R1 code would “facilitate” a potential data breach

Being a personal assistant, the device’s responses often include the user’s personal information. So, the Rabbitude team’s discovery suggests that these APIs could allow a user data breach after a potential attack. Additionally, these APIs enable access to key options to control the device. According to the report, they can be used to alter the device’s responses or change its voice. They would even allow bricking the R1.

The Rabbitude team refers to them as “critical hardcoded API keys.” They were primarily developed for text-to-speech (and vice versa) functions powered by ElevenLabs and Azure. Also for access to Yelp reviews and Google Maps for location-related requirements. They claim that the Rabbit R1 team was aware of the problem, but did nothing to resolve it.

No user data has been exposed, Rabbit R1 team claims

Meanwhile, the Rabbit R1 team claims to be unaware of any user data breach. However, they are investigating a related situation that occurred on June 25. The company says they will offer updates on this as they find more information.

After the Rabbitude team’s post, the company revoked the ElevenLabs keys. This affected the functionality of the Rabbit R1 devices for a time. However, they did not reveal whether they also revoked the other API keys reported by Rabbitude.


[ad_2]
Source link

Digital hotel keys arrive on Google Wallet

andreasc
-
0
Digital hotel keys arrive on Google Wallet
[ad_1]
Google Wallet is making traveling a little less stressful for hotel guests by supporting digital hotel key cards. If your hotel offers it, you can save your hotel key right to Google Wallet and use your phone to unlock your room instead of carrying a physical key.

Adding a hotel key to Google Wallet is similar to adding a credit card. You’d just need to tap the “Add to Google Wallet” button on the hotel’s website, app, or in an email. Then, sign in and add the hotel to Google Wallet. To unlock your room, simply hold your phone near the door handle. Some phone models don’t even require you to unlock your phone first.

Google Wallet isn’t the first digital wallet to offer this feature. Apple Wallet on iPhones has had this capability since 2021 with the launch of iOS 15. However, adding it to Google Wallet opens it up to a whole new group of Android users. Some hotel chains, like Marriott and Hilton, have had digital key cards on their apps for a while, but the Google Wallet integration means you don’t have to download another app.
Digital hotel keys arrive on Google Wallet

Digital room keys have been available on iOS since iOS 15 | Image credit — Apple

There’s one catch, though. Not all hotels are compatible with Google Wallet for digital key cards. Each hotel will have to add support for the feature, and right now, not many hotels have. One of the hotels that does offer digital key cards with Google Wallet is the Clarion Hotel Post in Sweden.

This new feature could be really convenient for travelers, but it’s unclear how quickly it will be widely available. Because it’s a new technology, fancier, more expensive hotels are probably the ones that will offer this first. We’ll have to wait and see if more affordable hotels start offering it too. In the meantime, if you happen to be staying at a hotel that offers digital key cards through Google Wallet, you can give it a try and see how you like it.


[ad_2]
Source link

Get up to 5 free months of Amazon Music Unlimited!

andreasc
-
0
Get up to 5 free months of Amazon Music Unlimited!
[ad_1]

Who doesn’t like free trials? Prices are going up across just about all subscription services, so it’s great to be able to sample services to see if they’re fit for you. Amazon Prime Day is fast approaching, and the company has a honey of a deal for people looking to sample Amazon Music. For a limited time, users can get up to five free months of Amazon Music Unlimited.

What’s Amazon Music Unlimited? This is the service that grants you access to similar features as Spotify, YouTube Music, Tidal, etc. You have access to the full catalog of Music provided through Amazon. You’ll be able to hear all of the latest music from today’s top artists. Also, if you’re in the mode for some classics, there’s a huge catalog of music from the olden days. Anything from the late 20th century to the late 17th century.

Along with that, you’ll be able to download tracks for offline listening. If you don’t like ads, well you’ll have ad-free listening. Topping off the list of features, you’ll gain access to HD music and spatial audio. This is one of the best services to get if you’re tightly wrapped in the Amazon ecosystem of products.

Get up to five free months of Amazon Music Unlimited

So, what does Amazon Music Unlimited have that other services don’t have? Well, you’ll have almost half a year to find out! The company has a deal that will give you a five-month free trial, but there’s a bit of a catch. Follow the link to be taken to the Amazon Music Store.

Get your Amazon Music Unlimited free trial!

You’ll get a five-month free trial if you’re an Amazon Prime subscriber. The service is usually $4.99/month for Prime subscribers. However, if you’re not a Prime subscriber, you’re still not left out in the rain. Non-Prime members will get three months of free Amazon Music Unlimited. They’ll still gain access to all of the features.

So, you won’t be able to use it for quite as long, but three months is still a pretty sweet deal. A regular Amazon Music subscription normally costs $10.99/month for non-Prime users.


[ad_2]
Source link

Google Chrome boosts search on Android and iOS with new features

andreasc
-
0
Google Chrome boosts search on Android and iOS with new features
[ad_1]

Image credit — Google

Google Chrome is making mobile search even smoother with five new updates for Android and iOS. These changes aim to simplify tasks like finding local businesses, navigating websites, and staying updated on trending topics.

One of the most notable additions is the introduction of new Chrome Actions for local searches. Now, when you search for a restaurant or other business on your phone, you’ll see shortcut buttons to quickly call, get directions, or read reviews. This feature is currently available on Android and will be coming to iOS later this year.

Google Chrome boosts search on Android and iOS with new features

New Chrome Actions for local searches on Android | Image credit — Google

Tablet users will also appreciate the redesigned address bar on iPads and Android tablets. This refresh takes advantage of the larger screen size and aligns with Google’s Material You design language. The new design ensures that the website you’re currently viewing remains visible below the address bar drop-down, making it easier to return to it if needed.
Google Chrome boosts search on Android and iOS with new features

New redesigned address bar on tablets | Image credit — Google

Another useful feature is the addition of shortcut suggestions in the address bar. This personalized touch helps you navigate to websites based on your usual typing habits. For instance, if you often type “schedules” to access your local transit system’s website, Chrome will now prioritize that suggestion when you start typing.

New shortcut suggestions in the Chrome address bar | Image credit — Google

iOS users will now see trending search suggestions in their Chrome address bar, a feature that was previously available only on Android. These trends appear below your recent searches when you tap the address bar from the New Tab page, providing inspiration for your next web search.
Google Chrome boosts search on Android and iOS with new features

New trending search suggestions in the iOS Chrome address bar | Image credit — Google

Sports fans will enjoy the new live sports cards in Chrome’s Discover Feed on the New Tab page. These cards offer automatic updates on game scores and highlights for your favorite teams, ensuring you stay up-to-date with the latest sports news.
Google Chrome boosts search on Android and iOS with new features

New live sports in the New Tab page | Image credit — Google

With these updates, Google Chrome is streamlining the mobile search experience. By making common tasks quicker to complete and offering personalized suggestions, Chrome is becoming a more convenient and efficient tool for browsing the web on your phone or tablet.

[ad_2]
Source link
1...777879...1,452Page 78 of 1,452