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Apple has released iOS 17.1.2 for the iPhone and iPadOS 17.1.2 for the iPad, these new updates mainly include security f...
01/12/2023

Apple has released iOS 17.1.2 for the iPhone and iPadOS 17.1.2 for the iPad, these new updates mainly include security fixes for issues found in the previous versions of iOS and iPadOS, so it is recommended that you install the updates.

The update is around 526MB in size, this may vary slightly depending on which model of the iPhone or iPad you have, it does not appear to include any new features, just security updates, it may also include some other bug fixes and performance improvements.

You can see some of the details on what security fixes have been included below:

Available for: iPhone XS and later, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation and later, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st generation and later, iPad Air 3rd generation and later, iPad 6th generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later

Impact: Processing web content may disclose sensitive information. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited against versions of iOS before iOS 16.7.1.

Description: An out-of-bounds read was addressed with improved input validation.

Available for: iPhone XS and later, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation and later, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st generation and later, iPad Air 3rd generation and later, iPad 6th generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later

Impact: Processing web content may lead to arbitrary code ex*****on. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited against versions of iOS before iOS 16.7.1.

Description: A memory corruption vulnerability was addressed with improved locking.

You can find out more details about the new iOS 17.1.2 and iPadOS 17.1.2 software update over at Apple’s website at the link below. The updates can be installed by going to Settings > General > Software update on your device.

Source Apple

Image Credit: Amanz

Apple has unveiled the App Store Award winners for 2023, and a total of 14 different apps have been recognized by Apple ...
01/12/2023

Apple has unveiled the App Store Award winners for 2023, and a total of 14 different apps have been recognized by Apple this year and the App of the year award has been given to the AllTrails app.

The iPad App of the Year winner is Pret-a-Makreup and the award for the Mac App of the Year goes to Photomator, SmartGym wins the awards for the Apple WEatch and Mubi fopr the Apple TV.

Apple today unveiled the winners of the 2023 App Store Awards, recognising 14 apps and games that empowered users to unleash their creativity, discover a world of new adventures, and have fun with family and friends. This year’s winners include developers from across the world, whose apps and games were chosen by the App Store’s Editorial team for providing users with meaningful experiences and inspiring cultural change. App Store Award winners were selected from nearly 40 finalists for delivering exceptional technical innovation, user experience, and design.
“It’s inspiring to see the ways developers continue to build incredible apps and games that are redefining the world around us,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “This year’s winners represent the limitless potential of developers to bring their visions to life, creating apps and games with remarkable ingenuity, exceptional quality, and purpose-driven missions.”
You can find out more information about Apple’s App Store Award winners for 2023 over at Apple’s website at the link below, there are a range of other App Awards in different categories as well.

Source Apple

Google has announced that it is bringing 11 new features to Android in its latest update, the features will be available...
01/12/2023

Google has announced that it is bringing 11 new features to Android in its latest update, the features will be available on Android Phones and tablets, Google TV devices, and WearOS smartwatches.

The new features include new Emoji sticker combinations, Voice Moods in Google Messages, Reactions in Google Messages, 10 new TV channels in Google TV, the ability to control more smart home devices with your smartwatch and you can also set Home and Away from your smartwatch with your Smart Home.

You will also be able to access Assistant Routines from your smartwatch, it will also be easier to log into your device with your security key and you can set a custom PIN on your FIDO2 security keys.

The latest Google Android update also lets you manage your day with the AI assistant and hear AIU image descriptions, plus you will be able to take calls and access media through live captions.

Android is helping you personalize your devices to be more expressive, helpful, secure and accessible. You can now check out 11 new features and updates across your Android phones and tablets, Wear OS smartwatches and Google TV devices — including brand-new ways to use Google Messages, too. Here’s what’s new on Android.

You can find out more information about all of the new features in the latest Android update over at Gogole’s website at the link below, some features will be coming in the new feature and many are available now.

Source Google

This guide is designed to show you how to master Android Phone Photography with the latest version of Google’s mobile OS...
01/12/2023

This guide is designed to show you how to master Android Phone Photography with the latest version of Google’s mobile OS. Android 14 has introduced a plethora of new features and enhancements to the default camera app, making it easier than ever to capture stunning photos with your Android smartphone. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to elevate your mobile photography skills.

Understanding the Basics
Before diving into advanced techniques, let’s recap the fundamentals of smartphone photography:

Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial for capturing high-quality images. Utilize natural light whenever possible, as it tends to produce more flattering and realistic results.
Composition: The arrangement of elements within your frame is essential for conveying a compelling story. Employ the rule of thirds, leading lines, and negative space to create visually appealing compositions.
Focus: Ensure your subject is sharp and in focus by tapping on the desired area on the screen. Most Android phones offer advanced focus modes, such as continuous autofocus and subject tracking, for precise focusing.
Exposure: Adjust the exposure level to ensure your photos are neither too bright nor too dark. Use the exposure compensation slider on your camera app to fine-tune the exposure.
Exploring Android 14 Camera Features
Android 14 brings several exciting camera enhancements that can significantly improve your mobile photography experience:

Scene Optimization: The camera app can intelligently recognize various scenes and adjust the shooting parameters accordingly, ensuring optimal capture in various lighting conditions.
Ultra HDR: This feature expands the dynamic range of your photos, preserving details in both bright and dark areas.
AI-Powered Enhancements: Utilize AI-powered features like portrait mode and object removal to enhance your photos with professional-looking effects.
Capturing Stunning Landscapes and Cityscapes
When capturing landscapes and cityscapes, consider these tips:

Choose the Right Time: The best times for capturing landscapes are during the golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) or on overcast days when the light is softer and more diffuse.
Utilize Leading Lines: Use natural features like roads, rivers, or fences to guide the viewer’s eye through the scene and create a sense of depth.
Incorporate Negative Space: Balance the main subject with ample negative space to avoid clutter and emphasize the vastness of the landscape or cityscape.
Photographing Portraits and Close-Ups
For captivating portraits and close-ups:

Pay Attention to Lighting: Utilize natural light or softbox lighting to create a flattering glow on your subject’s face. Avoid harsh shadows and direct sunlight.
Find a Suitable Background: Choose a background that complements your subject and doesn’t distract from the main focus.
Focus on Emotions: Capture genuine expressions and emotions by engaging with your subject and making them feel comfortable.
Elevating Your Photography with Advanced Techniques
Manual Shooting Modes: Explore manual shooting modes to gain more control over exposure, shutter speed, and ISO settings.
Third-Party Camera Apps: Experiment with third-party camera apps that offer a wider range of features and shooting options.
Post-Processing: Utilize photo editing apps to enhance your images, adjusting brightness, contrast, and color to achieve your desired aesthetic.
Summary
Embarking on the path to excellence in Android phone photography is a continuous process, one that demands dedication, perseverance, and an openness to trying out varied approaches. The intricacies of photography can be quite intricate, involving an understanding of lighting, composition, and the right moment to capture an image. As you delve into this realm, it’s important to recognize that each photograph is a learning opportunity, a chance to refine your technique and artistic vision.

With the introduction of Android 14, the photographic potential of your device has been significantly enhanced. This latest operating system brings with it improved camera functionalities and more intuitive controls, enabling you to harness the full capabilities of your smartphone’s camera. Whether you’re aiming to capture the subtle interplay of light and shadow in a landscape or the fleeting expression on a person’s face, these advancements offer you a more robust toolkit.

In this guide, we’ve outlined a series of tips and techniques designed to help you maximize these new features. From understanding the basics of composition and lighting to exploring the more advanced settings of your Android device, these tips are tailored to help you enhance your photographic skills. As you apply these techniques, you’ll notice a gradual improvement in your work, leading to photographs that not only capture moments but also tell a story and evoke emotions.

Ultimately, the journey to mastering Android phone photography is as rewarding as it is challenging. It’s a journey that allows you to express your creativity, capture the world from your unique perspective, and share your vision with others. With the tips provided in this guide and the capabilities of Android 14 at your disposal, you are well-equipped to take this journey and create stunning, memorable photographs that reflect your growing expertise in the art of photography.

Image Credit: Angela Compagnone

Vivo has added a new 5G smartphone to its range with the launch of the new Vivo Y100i. The handset comes with a 6.64-inc...
01/12/2023

Vivo has added a new 5G smartphone to its range with the launch of the new Vivo Y100i. The handset comes with a 6.64-inch LCD display that features a Full HD+ resolution of 2388 x 1080 pixels, the handset also comes with an octa-core processor.

Powering the device is a MediaTek 6020 mobile processor and the handset comes with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, it does not feature a microSD card slot, it also comes with OriginOS 3 and Android 13.

The new Vivo Y100i comes with a 5000 mAh battery and it features 44W fast charging and reverse charging, it has a fingerprint sensor and it comes with a range of cameras, there is a single camera on the front and two rear cameras.

On the rear of the handset, there is a 50-megapixel main camera for photos and videos, there is also a 2-megapixel depth camera, and on the front of the handset, there is an 8-megapixel camera that is designed for taking selfies and making video calls.

The Vivo Y100i 5G smartphone will be available in a choice of three colors at launch,m Pin, Blue, or Black nd the handset will retail for CNY 1,599 which is about $225 at the current exchange rate.

Source GSM Arena

Optimizing an Android phone’s performance is a key concern for many users who want to ensure their device runs at its ma...
01/12/2023

Optimizing an Android phone’s performance is a key concern for many users who want to ensure their device runs at its maximum speed. Whether you’re experiencing slow app loading times, laggy transitions, or unresponsive touchscreens, a laggy phone can hinder your productivity and overall enjoyment of your device. While newer Android phones generally offer better performance, even the most powerful devices can succumb to slowdown over time.

Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can employ to optimize your Android phone’s performance and restore its speed and responsiveness. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into a range of practical tips and techniques to keep your Android phone running smoothly.

Background Processes and Memory Usage
Android phones run numerous processes in the background. These can consume memory and processing power, impacting overall speed.
Clearing out unnecessary background processes can free up resources.
Software Updates
Manufacturers often release updates that improve performance and fix bugs.
Keeping your device updated ensures you benefit from these optimizations.
Step-by-Step Optimization
1. Update Your Device
Check for system updates in your device’s settings.
Install any available updates to benefit from improved performance and security enhancements.
2. Uninstall Unnecessary Apps
Remove apps you no longer use. Each app, even when not in use, can take up space and potentially run background processes.
To uninstall, go to Settings > Apps and notifications > See all apps. Select the app you want to uninstall and tap ‘Uninstall’.
3. Clear App Cache and Data
Over time, apps accumulate cache and data which can slow down the device.
To clear, go to Settings > Apps and notifications > See all apps. Select an app, then tap ‘Storage & cache’ and clear both cache and data.
4. Disable or Remove Bloatware
Bloatware refers to pre-installed apps that are often unnecessary.
Some bloatware can be uninstalled, while others can only be disabled. Disabling prevents them from running and using resources.
5. Optimize Battery Settings
Some devices have a battery optimization feature that can extend battery life and improve performance.
Navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery optimization.
6. Reduce Animations
Animations, while visually pleasing, can slow down your phone.
Reduce or turn off animations via Developer options. To enable Developer options, go to Settings > About phone and tap ‘Build number’ seven times.
7. Use Lite Versions of Apps
Many popular apps like Facebook and Twitter have ‘Lite’ versions. These consume less resources and are ideal for slower phones.
8. Use Static Wallpapers
Live wallpapers consume more resources. Opt for static wallpapers for better performance.
9. Perform Regular Restarts
Restarting your device can clear temporary files and free up memory.
10. Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If performance is still not improved, consider a factory reset. Back up your data first as this will erase everything on the device.
Maintenance Tips
Regular Updates
Regularly check and install app and system updates.
Monitor App Behavior
Pay attention to any app that significantly drains battery or slows down the device, and consider alternatives.
Use Performance Monitoring Apps
There are apps available that help monitor and optimize your device’s performance.
Avoid Overheating
Keep your device cool as overheating can degrade performance and battery health.
Conclusion
Optimizing an Android phone to achieve its highest speed potential is a multifaceted process that encompasses several crucial aspects. Firstly, regular maintenance plays a pivotal role. This includes routinely checking for and installing updates, clearing caches, and managing apps. Timely updates not only bring new features but also include performance improvements and security enhancements. Regularly clearing app caches prevents the accumulation of residual files that can slow down the system.

Secondly, adjusting various settings on the device contributes significantly to its performance. This includes managing background processes, reducing or disabling animations, and tweaking battery optimization settings. These adjustments help in ensuring that the phone uses its resources more efficiently, leading to faster operation and a smoother user experience.

Lastly, being mindful of the apps you install and use is equally important. Some apps are resource-intensive and can bog down your device’s performance. Opting for lighter versions of apps, when available, and being judicious about the number of apps running simultaneously can have a positive impact on the phone’s speed.

By meticulously following these steps and integrating them into your regular phone usage habits, users can markedly enhance their device’s efficiency. This not only improves the overall performance but also elevates the user experience, making interactions with the device more seamless and enjoyable. The combined effect of maintenance, settings optimization, and careful app management ensures that the phone operates at its peak capability, providing swift responses and a more satisfying user experience.

Tecno has added a new Android smartphone to its range with the launch of the new Tecno Spark 20C. The handset comes with...
29/11/2023

Tecno has added a new Android smartphone to its range with the launch of the new Tecno Spark 20C. The handset comes with a 6.6-inch LCD display that features an HD resolution and it comes with a 90Hz refresh rate.

The device is powered by an octa-core 2.2GHz processor, the exact processor that is used has not been revealed as yet, the handset also comes with a choice of 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB storage, there is also a microSD card slot for expansion.

The new Tecno Spark 20C smartphone comes with a range of cameras, there is a single camera on the front and two cameras on the rear. On the front of the handset, there is an 8-megapixel camera that is designed for making video calls and for taking selfies. On the back of the handset, there is a main 50-megapixel camera that is designed for taking photos and videos, there is also a secondary unspecified camera.

The handset comes with a 5,000 mAh battery and it features 18W fast charging, it comes with Android 13 and Tecno’s custom User Interface (UI), it also has a built-in FM Radio and a 3.5mm audio jack.

The new Tecno Spark 20C smartphone will come in a choice of colors including Mystery White, Gravity Black, and Alpenglow Gold, the exact pricing of this new Android device has not been revealed.

Source GSM Arena

We have been hearing a number of rumors about the new Samsung Galaxy A15 5G smartphone and now the handset’s full specif...
29/11/2023

We have been hearing a number of rumors about the new Samsung Galaxy A15 5G smartphone and now the handset’s full specifications have been revealed by a Walmart listing, the handset has not been made official by Samsung as yet.

The Walmart listing has revealed that the new Samsung Galaxy A15 5G 6.5 inch LCD display with a Full HD+ resolution of 2408 x 1080 pixels, and the device will be powered by an octa-core 2.2 GHz processor.

The new Galaxy A15 5G smartphone will come with a range of RAM and storage options, these will include 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM and a choice of either 64GB or 128GB of included storage.

The handset will also come with a MicroSD card slot for additional storage and it comes with a range of cameras, with a single camera on the front of the handset and two cameras on the rear.

On the front of the device, there is a 13-megapixel camera that has been designed for making video calls and for taking selfies, on the back of the handset, there is a 50-megapixel main camera and a 2 2-megapixel macro camera.

The new Samsung Galaxy A15 5G will also come with a 5000 mAh battery and it will feature 15W fast charging, the pricing has been revealed by the Walmart listing, it will cost $139 and will be available with Boost Mobile.

Source Walmart, GSM Arena

The new OnePlus 12 smartphone will launch in China next month and the handset is going to launch globally in January, On...
29/11/2023

The new OnePlus 12 smartphone will launch in China next month and the handset is going to launch globally in January, OnePlus is holding a press event for the handset on the 4th of December.

Now we have what appear to be some official press photos of the new OnePlus 12 ahead of its official launch next month, the photos reveal some more details about the design of the handset.

OnePlus 12

Preliminary information suggests that the OnePlus 12 smartphone will feature a suite of advanced specifications. The device is expected to boast a 6.82-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 3,168 x 1440 pixels.

Under the hood, the OnePlus 12 is anticipated to be equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 mobile processor. It is also projected to offer a variety of RAM and storage configurations, with possibilities extending up to 16GB of RAM and a maximum of 1TB of storage. However, the precise configurations remain undisclosed.

OnePlus 12
In terms of photography capabilities, the new OnePlus flagship is slated to include a sophisticated array of cameras. This setup is rumored to comprise a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 64-megapixel telephoto camera. Additionally, the front of the device is expected to feature a 32-megapixel camera, designed to enhance selfie quality and video call clarity.

We will have m ore information on the new OnePlus 12 smartphone when the handset is made official at the press event on the 4th of December, we are looking forward to finding out the full specifications,

Source Weibo, Sparrow News, GSM Arena

Oppo has announced two new smartphones, the IOppo Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro. The Reno 11 comes with a 6.7-inch OLED screen...
29/11/2023

Oppo has announced two new smartphones, the IOppo Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro. The Reno 11 comes with a 6.7-inch OLED screen, providing a vibrant and sharp visual experience with a 1080p resolution. A standout feature is its 10-bit screen that supports a high 120 Hz refresh rate, complemented by a 240 Hz touch sampling rate, making the display exceptionally smooth and responsive – ideal for both gaming and general use.

Under the hood, the Reno 11 is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 8200 chipset and the handset comes with a choice of RAM and storage options, you can choose from 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage or 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

The handset comes with a range of cameras, these include a front-facing 32-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls, on the front there is a 50 MP Sony LYT600 sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, offering high-quality image capture. The inclusion of autofocus and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) ensures sharp, stable shots even in challenging conditions.

There is also an 8 MP ultra-wide shooter with a 112-degree Field of View that allows for expansive landscape and group photos, plus a 2 MP portrait camera with 2x zoom is specifically designed for capturing detailed and aesthetically pleasing portrait shots.

The handset also comes with a 4800 mAh battery and 67W fast charging, pricing for the device starts at CNY 2,499 which is about $350 at the current exchange rate.

Source GSM Arena

Samsung has announced that it has teamed up with French fashion brand Maison Margiela to launch a special edition versio...
29/11/2023

Samsung has announced that it has teamed up with French fashion brand Maison Margiela to launch a special edition version of one of its smartphones, the Samsung Maison Margiela Galaxy Z Flip5 special edition,.

Samsung Electronics and Maison Margiela, the Parisian Haute Couture house, today announced their second collaboration to create a special edition of the Galaxy Z Flip5. This collaboration further expands the innovative partnership by embracing the brand identities of both Samsung Galaxy and Maison Margiela to deliver a device for people desiring freshness and unconventionality.

“Samsung and Maison Margiela have continued to surprise the industry by breaking conventions and norms, and support those who seek individuality,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP & Head of Marketing of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “This second collaboration between the two brands brings together fashion and technology by approaching a high-tech device in a way similar to the construction of an haute couture garment. Through this collaboration, we want consumers to discover their own identity and express it without limitation.”

You can find out more details about the new Samsung Maison Margiela Z Flip5 special edition smartphone over at Samsung’s website at the link below as yet there are no detalils on when the handset will be available.

Source Samsung

Redmagic has launched its latest gaming smartphones, the Redmagic 9 Pro and Redmagic 9 Pro+ the handsets come with a 6.8...
29/11/2023

Redmagic has launched its latest gaming smartphones, the Redmagic 9 Pro and Redmagic 9 Pro+ the handsets come with a 6.8 inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a Full HD+ resolution of 2480 x 1116 pixels.

The handsets are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and it comes with up to a massive 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage and they will go on sale in China this month.

Equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the REDMAGIC 9 Pro series is one of the first Android smartphones to feature this technology. With up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, these devices offer lightning-fast speeds and seamless multitasking. The 120Hz refresh rate display ensures incredibly smooth visuals, making it perfect for immersive gameplay.

The upgraded ICE 13 cooling system, which includes a 22,000 rpm built-in cooling fan with customizable RGB lighting and 520 Hz shoulder triggers, ensures uninterrupted and comfortable gaming sessions. The REDMAGIC 9 Pro and REDMAGIC 9 Pro+ models come with long-lasting batteries of 5500mAh and 6500mAh, respectively, providing hours of gaming
without interruption.

The REDMAGIC 9 Pro series also features a triple-camera and a completely flat rear panel, making it the perfect device for gaming enthusiasts who demand high performance. With a 2000 Hz instant touch sampling rate and a 960 Hz average touch sampling rate, the REDMAGIC 9 Pro series delivers an exceptional gaming experience.

The new Redmagic 9 pro range of smartphones will be launching internationally in December, as yet there are no details on pricing, they will be available around the end of December, and start in January 2024.

Source Redmagic

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