Tag: Computers

Xiaomi has decided to bid MIUI adieu after 14 years of development and will now focus on a “new” OS called HyperOS. Now, MIUI and HyperOS, from the initial leaks, look objectively identical but there are some significant changes in how the OS works from the inside. There’s no denying that Xiaomi’s approach to MIUI has attracted both praise and controversial takes from its users over the years because while there are a few things people genuinely like about the UI, there are also things that completely ruin the user experience. With several HyperOS compatible devices in the pipeline, the new OS could be a game changer for Xiaomi. In this article, let’s look at some of the features and improvements Xiaomi should add to its HyperOS.

1. Cleaner User Experience

MIUI gets some things right but a clean user experience definitely isn’t one of them. One of the major complaints that people have always had with the OS is the excessive preinstalled bloatware and Xiaomi apps. To top it off, users are served advertisements in the UI, which, to Xiaomi’s credit, can be disabled. There are solutions to permanently removing ads and bloatware but they require tinkering knowledge in Android and not everyone is well-versed with Android debugging tools. What’s worse is the company also pushes ads on their premium phones that cost upwards of $700.

HyperOS can get rid of most complaints about MIUI by reducing the preinstalled bloat and ridding the ads in the UI. A clean user experience would not only help Xiaomi sell more devices in the regions they’re already popular in but also expand to other countries and improve their bad outlook globally. For example, the “security” and “store” apps are completely unnecessary and are just bloatware. The same goes for other preinstalled apps such as Mi Cloud and Payment. Here’s a list of bloatware that you can uninstall safely on Xiaomi devices.

2. Better Background App Optimization

A lot of people tend to overlook various things when buying a device, and one of the most underrated of them is background app optimization. It’s exactly as the name suggests, optimizing the OS so that the background processes are retained and not killed. A well-optimized OS/UI tends to keep apps running in the background for longer without impacting the overall performance or killing the apps when you come back to them.

According to one of the oldest and most trusted websites “Don’t Kill My App,” MIUI is one of the worst UIs after Samsung (yes, pretty surprising) when it comes to preserving apps in memory because it tries to subjugate to “artificially claim” more battery life. The user experience clearly matters more than the battery taking a hit, besides, there are lots of manufacturers like Sony, Realme, OPPO, Nokia, and Google that do a better job at optimizing background apps.

With the change in the underlying components of the new Android-based HyperOS (Switch to NuttX), Xiaomi should take into consideration the app optimizations and make the OS retain more apps in the background without killing them off abruptly. This would definitely be one of the best features Xiaomi could bring to HyperOS and elevate the user experience.

3. Cut Down on Customizations

Don’t get me wrong. One of the reasons I never intend to switch to iOS is that I’d be missing out on a sea of customization features in Android. Any well-planned, useful customization feature is good and will help people appreciate the OS. Customization is subjective — some like lots of it while others care about a few and they are the majority. However, there’s a line that shouldn’t be crossed, that’s when you add so many features that it starts to mess up the UI and becomes increasingly overwhelming to users with each update adding hundreds of features that a handful are going to use.

With HyperOS, Xiaomi should avoid crossing that line and think thoroughly about whether a feature would be worth adding and how many users are actually going to fully use it. One way that I see Xiaomi could implement this is by seeking inspiration from Samsung which has bundled all customizations behind the Good Lock app. The suite brings all customization options in an app instead of options sprinkled all over the Settings app or other apps. Sure, this step would be quite a departure from what MIUI has always been about, but drawing a line is important. That’s what will bring a touch of seamlessness and neatness to the UI. Again, it could be subjective. For example, I’m not a big fan of themes and would rather use the plain MIUI theming.

4. Provide at least 5 Years of Updates

One of the other things Xiaomi hasn’t been consistent with is OS updates, and no we’re not talking about just MIUI updates. Xiaomi’s commitment towards its flagships has been a very meager two years of major updates and one extra year of security patches, which is debated by the tech community. However, following other OEMs like Samsung and OnePlus providing four major updates, the company recently announced that it will be extending updates to its recent flagship series, the Xiaomi 13, bumping it to 4 years of major updates and an extra year of security patches.

The transition to HyperOS will change a lot of internal components of the OS as discussed in our HyperOS article; TL;DR, the switch to NuttX and POSIX is meant to mitigate the effort needed to run the same OS on different platforms with reusable APIs and code, which technically means that the shift to this real-time operating system should make it easier to push updates. With Google upping the ante with seven years of major updates to its Pixel lineup, it only makes sense both from a marketing and from a user standpoint to embrace this and provide at least five years of updates starting with the Xiaomi 14.

5. Emphasis on Seamless Ecosystem

Xiaomi’s ecosystem tends to revolve more around building more hardware products in IoT rather than binding and having those products with software as most manufacturers do. It centers more around people having as many Xiaomi products as possible but doesn’t emphasize interoperability. It’s pretty evident that HyperOS is the first step toward establishing a true Xiaomi ecosystem, with a similar OS running across all Xiaomi devices.

Take Samsung and Google, for example. Sure, their systems are far from complete when compared to the likes of Apple but they’re getting there. The presence of cohesiveness and focus on binding products should be one of the pivotal objectives of HyperOS.

Earlier this month, Samsung introduced its Galaxy SmartTag2. The Galaxy SmartTag 2 is a tracking device which can be attached to various objects that are easily lost with a small strap or by other means, such as a keychain. The objects include keys, luggage, purses, among others. The device can then be located with SmartThings mobile app, using Bluetooth. Today, the company is bringing this useful gadget to India. A single units is selling for about INR 2,799 ($33).

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 Lands in India

The smart accessory is currently available in White or Black on the Samsung Online Store. In addition, the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 is available for purchase on Amazon.in and at Samsung Exclusive Stores.

Samsung does not offer any special goodies like a case or bundle. However, the INR 2,799 price is for a limited time only. Later, it is said to increase to INR 2,999.

Samsung’s new Galaxy SmarTag 2 bring improvements like a 700-day battery life

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 comes with new features such as Lost Mode. It allows owners to input their info, and then the person who finds the tag and the attached item will be able to locate it with a simple NFC scan. The SmartTag 2 is also durable thanks to a new Power Saving Mode than improves the 500-day battery life to 700 days.

Why Smart Tags are Useful?

Have you ever lost your keys, purse and had to spend minutes looking for it? During the search you probably through how it would be amazing to have a device to allow yo uto track the lost item. Well, It’s really annoying to have some important items lost at home, car or work environments. The SmartTags come to solve the issue allowing you to quickly track anything attached to it. Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag2 improves over the past generation and is a decent product if you want to keep your personal items in sight.

Samsung has introduced its second tracking device (the first one came in 2021), the Galaxy SmartTag 2 in India. This comes a few weeks after this was announced in the global markets. The device falls under Rs 3,000 and comes with Bluetooth 5.3, UWB, and more. Check out the price, features, and more.

Samsung SmartTag 2: Specs and Features

The Galaxy SmartTag 2 has an oval-shaped design and is compact in nature. It can attached to keys, luggage, and more to track them when lost or misplaced. The highlight of the device is support for an ultrawideband chip (its predecessor didn’t have the capability) for a better range and accurate tracking. There’s also support for Bluetooth 5.3.

There’s support for the Lost mode, which uses NFC to provide information about the SmartTag’s user on the finder’s device, be it an iOS or Android device. This can easily help people find their missing products. The device supports the Compass View and Search Nearby features to easily locate lost items. There’s also the Ring Your Tag option for the SmartTag to make a noise in case locating it becomes difficult.

The Galaxy SmartTag 2 can last for up to 500 days and save up to 40% battery life with the power-saving mode. Any new Galaxy SmartTag 2 can be registered on the Galaxy SmartThings Find app. It comes with an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.

Price and Availability

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 is priced at Rs 2,799 (which is less expensive than the Apple AirTag) and can be grabbed via Amazon, the company’s website, and Samsung Exclusive Stores. It comes in white and black colors. There’s an option to use either a silicon case (in lavender, white, black, green, and blue colors) or a rugged case (in green, white, and black colors) option.

In the ever-evolving world of mobile technology, Google continues to fine-tune and enhance its Android Auto platform, ushering in Android Auto 10.7 as the latest iteration. This operating system, designed for in-car use, has become an essential companion for drivers, providing seamless integration between their mobile devices and car consoles. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the latest developments in Android Auto 10.7. We will explore its new features, shed light on why major changes are scarce, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to update or install this version. So, fasten your seatbelts, and let’s take a deep dive into the world of Android Auto.

What’s New in Android Auto 10.7

Android Auto 10.7 introduces several subtle changes, the most notable being the adjustment in Google Maps. When you launch Google Maps, you’ll notice a switch to a top-down view from the slightly tilted perspective. While this may appear to be a minor alteration, it enhances the user experience, especially during navigation.

Additionally, the update brings an interface revamp, with buttons conveniently placed on one side. These adjustments contribute to smoother, more user-friendly interactions within the Android Auto environment.

However, it’s worth noting that many highly anticipated features are still conspicuously absent from this release. Features such as the new Google Assistant design, the updated contact selector, and the configuration options for electric cars remain exclusive to certain users. Similarly, promised features like compatibility with Coolwalk, Zoom, or WebEx, the Material You redesign of settings, customization for the home app, and a disconnect button are still not universally available.

The staggered release of these features can be attributed to Google’s cautious approach. They prefer to gradually roll out updates to avoid widespread issues and ensure the safety and functionality of the platform. Given that Android Auto is primarily used while driving, it’s crucial that the introduction of new features doesn’t compromise user safety. Google’s commitment to minimizing risks is commendable, as any glitches or failures could have serious consequences.

While these visible changes are somewhat limited in Android Auto 10.7, the bulk of the updates are hidden under the hood. This includes bug fixes, internal optimizations, and compatibility enhancements for various car models. Though Google doesn’t provide a detailed list of the specific bugs addressed, it’s advisable to keep Android Auto up to date, as these improvements contribute to a smoother and safer user experience.

Why the slow rollout?

There are a few reasons why Google is rolling out Android Auto 10.7 so slowly.

• Safety: Android Auto is a safety-critical app, so Google wants to make sure that all the new features are working properly before releasing them to everyone. Any bug or issue could have serious consequences for drivers, so Google is taking its time to test everything thoroughly.
• Compatibility: Android Auto needs to be compatible with a wide range of cars and smartphones, so Google needs to give car manufacturers and app developers time to update their firmware and apps.
• Phased rollout: Google often rolls out new versions of Android Auto in a phased manner, starting with a small group of users and then gradually expanding the rollout to more and more people. This allows Google to identify and fix any problems before they affect a large number of users.

Updating to Android Auto 10.7

Now that we’ve explored the changes in Android Auto 10.7, let’s delve into the process of updating to this latest version. The good news is that the update is stable, meaning it’s accessible to all users. Here are two methods to update your Android Auto app:

• Google Play Store Update:

  The simplest way to update Android Auto is through the Google Play Store, where you can manage and update all your installed apps. Follow these steps:

  • Open the Google Play Store on your mobile device.
  • Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the upper-left corner.
  • Select “My apps & games.”
  • Scroll down the list of installed apps to find Android Auto.
  • If an update is available, you’ll see an “Update” button next to the app. Tap it.
  • Wait for the update to download and install.

• Manual Update with APKMirror:

  If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can manually download and install the Android Auto 10.7 update from APKMirror. Here’s how:

  • Visit the APKMirror website (apkmirror.com) using your mobile device.
  • Search for “Android Auto.”
  • Select the most recent version of Android Auto 10.7, ensuring it matches your phone’s architecture (typically ARM or ARM64).
  • Download the APK file to your device.
  • Locate the downloaded APK file and tap it to begin the installation process.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

In conclusion, Android Auto 10.7 may not bring sweeping changes to the platform, but the subtle improvements enhance the user experience, particularly during navigation. Google’s cautious approach to feature rollouts ensures the safety and reliability of this in-car companion. Whether you prefer an automated or manual update process, keeping your Android Auto app up to date is essential to benefit from these enhancements. As technology continues to advance, Android Auto remains a valuable tool for drivers seeking connectivity and convenience during their journeys.

Troubleshooting update issues

If you’re having trouble updating to Android Auto 10.7, you can try the following:

• Make sure that your phone is running Android 6.0 or higher.
• Make sure that you have a good internet connection.
• Restart your phone.
• Clear the cache and data for the Google Play Store app.
• Uninstall and reinstall the Android Auto app.

If you’re still having trouble updating, you can contact Google support for assistance.

While 2023 has been a great year for video games, more titles are on the horizon to end the year on a good note, Alan Wake 2 being one of them. The sequel to the cult-classic action horror title by Remedy Entertainment, Alan Wake 2, has been awaited by gamers for years now. The game plans on continuing the story of the horror writer and kickstarting the Remedy Shared Universe. With the game launch nearing the finish lines, Remedy has shared news about preload. After all, the game is pretty large in size, and not everyone has a fast internet connection. So, if you’re someone who can’t wait enough and wants Alan Wake 2 on your platform now, check out our pre-load guide below and begin downloading.

Alan Wake 2 Preload Date and Time

Remedy Entertainment has shared the essential details around the Alan Wake 2 preload through an official X post (formerly Twitter). The preload is exclusively for the Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 consoles.

As of writing this article, the pre-load for Alan Wake 2 is live. You can start downloading the game from the respective console storefronts immediately and prepare it for the launch. One thing that might confuse some players is the omission of preload for PC players. Unfortunately, PC won’t receive a preload period for Alan Wake 2. The reason might be its Epic Games Store exclusivity. The platform has previously never offered preloading titles. Furthermore, the store doesn’t support video game preloads, which is why PC players have to wait until Alan Wake 2 launches on October 27, 2023.

Alan Wake 2 Game Install Size

Unlike Starfield, where the game installation size wasn’t officially confirmed, and influencers revealed the same, Remedy has disclosed the installation size for the game. Unfortunately, it follows the current trend of games being bigger. The installation sizes for the game on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S are as follows:

• PlayStation 5: 85GB
• Xbox Series X/S: 82GB

Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S install sizes are smaller than the EGS launch. The PC version of Alan Wake 2 clocks at around 86GB. One thing that we are not sure about is whether this is the final launch size for the game, including the day-one patch. However, since Alan Wake 2 is a digital-only title, we expect this size to include the day one patch.

How to Preload Alan Wake 2 Right Now

To preload the title on either of the consoles, you have to pre-order the title from the respective storefronts. The game costs $59.99 on both Xbox and PlayStation and $49.99 for PC. Once you have purchased it, follow the steps.

For PlayStation 5

• Navigate to your library dashboard on PlayStation 5.
• From here, select Alan Wake 2 or search for it.
• Once done, click the Download button, and it will start pre-loading.

For Xbox Series X/S

• Open up the Xbox Store and Search Alan Wake 2.
• Once on the store page, you will see the option to pre-install the title. Click on the option to start pre-loading.

So, are you excited about Alan Wake 2? What are you looking forward to once the game launches? Let us know in the comments below. Alan Wake 2 will launch for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Epic Games Store on October 27, 2023.

Innovative technology brand TECNO worked with BBC StoryWorks, BBC Studios’ commercial content division, to present ‘Portrait for Everyone’. A compelling short film showcasing how TECNO Universal Tone technology, that revolutionizes multi-skin tone imaging to properly represent everyone in one picture. The new short film highlights the power of this advanced technology to deliver a more inclusive smartphone imaging experience. Featuring insightful storytelling from the esteemed professors who partnered with TECNO to develop Universal Tone.

TECNO Universal Tone is a most advanced AI-Powered multi-skin tone imaging technology. That has been developed to meticulously understand and capture the beauty of the world’s diverse range of skin tones. Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO, said: “From this thrilling film, we want to convey our mission behind Universal Tone, which is to redefine portrait photography. Making it a truly inclusive and emotional experience. We aim to ensure that every individual, regardless of skin tone, feels seen and included through the lens of our technology.”

Several pieces of the puzzle combined

Shining the spotlight on the major challenges of portrait imaging, ‘Portrait for Everyone’ reveals how Universal Tone combines three powerful engines . Multi-Skin Tone Restoration Engine,  Local-Tuning Engine, and AI-Powered Computational Portrait Engine. To address these hurdles with precision and finesse.

For years, overexposed or desaturated images have failed to depict the true beauty of skin tone diversity. While AI promises much, but often trains with historically biased data. TECNO partnered with  Dr Kaida Xiao, associate professor in Colour and Imaging Science of University of Leeds and TECNO Technical Advisor. To create a better solution through creating a more inclusive color card. 

“TECNO and I embarked to explore the potential of technology to better reflect a variety of skin tones,” Dr Kaida Xiao stated in this film. “With the help of unbiased data, we could help integrate more advanced AI into TECNO’s camera system, specifically trained to capture the beauty of diverse skin tones.”

Different people, different visual preferences

‘Portrait for Everyone’ explores how portraits are not just visual. They are deeply emotional, resonating profoundly with people’s confidence in the psychological aspect. Therefore, creating technologies where everyone feels seen is vitally important. Professor of Psychological and Behavioral Science, Dr. Thomas Curran eloquently notes, “Our confidence and self-worth aren’t solely shaped by individual reflections. But also by how we perceive ourselves within a community. Authenticity in images helps maintain this delicate balance, grounding us in reality.” 

Universal Tone embodies TECNO’s in-depth knowledge of global users’ demands and caters to the aesthetic preferences of consumers in different regions. Besides personal elements, the technology also ensures users’ portraits are perfectly in tune with the world around them. With images fully tailored to the local environments, lighting conditions, geomorphological landscape, color temperature and more. Achieving perfect harmony between people and their surroundings.

Jack Qiu, Shaw Foundation Professor of Media Technology at Nanyang Technological University, and TECNO’s Advisor on Asian Skin Tone and Portrait Aesthetic, said: “By enriching the imaging capabilities of TECNO’s camera from this specific cultural dimension, we hope to add layers of emotional and aesthetic richness to every shot. Making each one a mirror that reflects and respects its origin.”

Every face tells a story, every culture has its own canvas. TECNO’s mission is to ensure every story is heard and every canvas celebrated. The ‘Portrait for Everyone’ underlines TECNO’s dedication to inclusivity, customer-centricity. And a globalized strategy, that certainly caters to diverse requirements and preferences of consumers. As it charts the limitless horizons of technology, TECNO extends an open invitation to all. Encouraging consumers to harness the power of Universal Tone for a future where the authentic self shines brightly and boldly.

About TECNO 

TECNO is an innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 countries and regions across five continents. Since its launch, TECNO has been revolutionizing the digital experience in emerging global markets. Relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies. Today, TECNO has also developed into a recognized leader in its target markets. Delivering state-of-the-art innovation through a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets. Or HiOS operating systems and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing”, TECNO commits to unlocking the best and newest technologies for forward-looking individuals. By creating stylish, intelligent products, TECNO inspires consumers worldwide to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information you can visit TECNO’s official site.

Tech and innovation go hand in hand and as a result, we often see new and attractive concepts come our way. Motorola is on the same road and has showcased its new adaptive display concept at Lenovo Tech World 2023, which calls for a flexible display that can even be wrapped around your wrist. Sounds interesting? Read on to know more.

Motorola Showcases Adaptive Display Concept

The new adaptive display concept by Motorola can be bent and have various form factors based on the use case. It can be used for a ‘ wrist-worn experience‘ when you need to get information right at your wrist. The device will be placed on another band, which can ensure it doesn’t fall off! The display will also support various stand modes, which can help you position the display in multiple ways. So, you can use it as a conventional smartphone or bend it a little to make it look like a foldable phone and probably mount it on a table for a hands-free experience.

This takes ahead the company’s existing rollable and foldable device concepts. The concept device supports a Full HD+ pOLED adaptive display, which can go from 6.9 inches to 4.6 inches, depending on how you are positioning it.

The concept will provide a proper Android experience but it remains to be seen how this is optimized when the device is used like a smartwatch. Since it’s a concept, there’s also no word on how durable and feasible this is! Plus, there’s no word on whether or not this will become a commercial thing or will instead stay in the concept archives.

Motorola Also Banks on AI!

Motorola has also jumped on the AI bandwagon with some additions. This includes its Generative AI model for people to get AI-based images based on the image of an outfit to reflect a person’s style. These can also be used as custom wallpapers even on the above-mentioned device to match your outfit!

There’s also the MotoAI personal assistant for Motorola phones and Lenovo PCs. This will help users get answers to questions and get a lot of work done by the assistant. It focuses on user privacy and runs data locally on the device. MotoAI also adapts to the usage patterns and users’ voices for better interaction.

Additionally, you get the 2.0 Mobile Doc Scan AI model for easy document scanning, AI text summarization, and more. So, which one of Motorola’s innovations excites you? Let us know in the comments below.

Vanshika Malhotra

2284 Posts

Started off as a stranger but tech is more like a good friend, thanks to over 5 years in the industry. While everything is attractive about tech, phones, social media, and quirky gadgets attract me the most. When not working, I find my solace in shopping and everything that concerns doggos!