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Tag: update

  • Apple Preps for Stable iOS 26.3 Update as iOS 26.4 Beta 2 Launches: No Siri Overhaul, but Exciting New Features Await

    Apple Preps for Stable iOS 26.3 Update as iOS 26.4 Beta 2 Launches: No Siri Overhaul, but Exciting New Features Await

    Upcoming iOS Updates to Include Minor Improvements

    Apple users who are currently using stable iOS 26.3 might have noticed that a minor update, iOS 26.3.1, is currently under testing. This update is projected to roll out within the next fortnight. Primarily, it’s expected to be a minor adjustment aimed at rectifying a bug or patching a potential software vulnerability.

    The release of iOS 26.3.1 might coincide with the launch of the lower-priced iPhone 17e model, which is expected to hit the market during the first week of March. In anticipation of the release of some Siri 2.0 features in iOS 26.4, as previously stated by Apple, some iPhone users installed iOS 26.4 Beta 1 in hopes of getting an early preview of an enhanced Siri. However, this move was unfruitful as Apple launched iOS 26.4 Beta 1 without any Siri AI improvements.

    Regrettably, I was one of the iPhone users who installed iOS 26.4 Beta 1 only to find that the advancements to Siri 2.0 had been delayed. The expectation now is that some of the new features for Siri will be introduced with iOS 26.5, which is due in May. The significant upgrade to Siri that will transform the digital assistant into a chatbot akin to ChatGPT and Gemini, however, is expected to land later in the year with the release of iOS 27 in September.

    The Playlist Playground

    The next stable update, iOS 26.4, is projected to arrive in late March or early April. Despite the likely absence of major changes to Siri, this update will introduce some exciting features like the Playlist Playground, a feature that debuted with iOS 26.4 Beta 1. This feature will allow users to generate a 25-song playlist based on a text prompt. The chip containing Apple’s recommended playlist requests can be tapped by users. If the generated playlist doesn’t meet your liking, there are options to refine it further by adding instructions, such as excluding a particular genre or enhancing a certain sound.

    End-To-End Encryption for Cross-Platform Messaging

    Apple has also begun testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS. Initially, when iOS 26.4 Beta 1 was released, E2EE RCS testing was restricted to messages sent between two iPhones with iMessage disabled. However, with the release of iOS 26.4 Beta 2, Apple has started allowing cross-platform RCS messaging between iOS and Android devices, protected with E2EE. Users of the latest Beta 2 release are now seeing a “lock icon” while texting a compatible Android phone. However, E2EE cross-platform RCS messaging is not expected to arrive on a stable iOS build until the release of iOS 26.5 or iOS 26.6.

    Questions & Answers

    When is the release of iOS 26.3.1 expected?
    The release is expected to happen sometime within the next two weeks.

    What are the new Siri 2.0 features expected in iOS 26.4?
    Despite initial expectations, it appears that major changes to Siri have been delayed and are now expected to be introduced in iOS 26.5.

    What is the Playlist Playground feature in iOS 26.4?
    This feature allows users to generate a 25-song playlist based on a text prompt, with options for further refinement based on user instructions.

  • Samsung Revamps Gaming Experience: Unveils Personalized Discovery and YouTube Integration in New Update

    Samsung Revamps Gaming Experience: Unveils Personalized Discovery and YouTube Integration in New Update

    Samsung Galaxy devices are set to experience a major enhancement to their Mobile Gaming Hub. The company is introducing a significant upgrade, which includes a more streamlined interface, personalised game suggestions, and integrated YouTube functionalities to help you uncover your next gaming addiction.

    A New Approach to Game Discovery

    Mobile game discovery, according to Samsung, has been a challenge. To address this, the company has initiated a major revamp of its Mobile Gaming Hub. The update, which will be rolled out globally to all Galaxy phones and tablets, aims to offer a more organised and personalised user experience.

    The revised interface will feature all games from the Galaxy Store in a single, consolidated library. The main highlight of the upgrade, however, lies in its personalised approach. The application will analyse your gaming habits to suggest games that align with your interests.

    An Integrated YouTube Experience

    The most noteworthy addition to the Mobile Gaming Hub is the direct integration of YouTube. Users can now view gameplays, walkthroughs, and creator content tailored to their gaming preferences directly within the hub, eliminating the need to switch between apps.

    This update is particularly significant for mobile gamers who often struggle to find quality games amidst a sea of “pay-to-win” clones. By curating content based on actual playing habits, Samsung aims to provide a more engaging user experience than Google Play or the App Store.

    Benefitting Gamers

    The updated Mobile Gaming Hub is designed for all Galaxy device owners who enjoy games, from casual puzzle players to competitive shooter enthusiasts. If the personalised recommendations function as expected, it could save gamers substantial time. The addition of video content is an attempt to keep users immersed in the platform, providing game guides and tips alongside the “Play” button.

    A Useful Gaming Launcher

    Pre-installed game launchers can often feel more like advertising billboards than useful tools. However, this update could shift that perception. The ability to view relevant YouTube guides next to the games they’re playing is a feature that could be appreciated by gamers of all levels.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the major update to the Mobile Gaming Hub on Samsung Galaxy devices?
    The update includes a streamlined interface, personalized game recommendations based on user’s play patterns, and integrated YouTube functionalities.

    Who is the updated Mobile Gaming Hub designed for?
    The update is designed for all Galaxy device owners who play games, ranging from casual puzzle players to competitive shooter fans.

    What makes the updated Mobile Gaming Hub unique?
    Its unique features include the direct integration of YouTube, allowing users to view gameplays and walkthroughs without switching apps. Additionally, the app personalizes game recommendations based on the user’s gaming habits.

  • Unleashing Personal Intelligence: Google’s Gemini Update Revamps App Connection for Efficient Answers

    Unleashing Personal Intelligence: Google’s Gemini Update Revamps App Connection for Efficient Answers

    Google has introduced a novel feature that allows its AI chatbot, Gemini, to sift through user emails and photos in a bid to answer specific queries about the user’s life. Currently, the feature, known as ‘Personal Intelligence,’ is being rolled out as a beta version for paying subscribers in the United States.

    Gemini – More Personalized Than Ever

    In a bid to facilitate users, Google has now given Gemini access to the user’s virtual storage. This new feature, dubbed ‘Personal Intelligence,’ allows Gemini to access information stored across various Google apps, including Gmail, Google Photos, and YouTube. The aim here is to simplify tasks such as finding specific receipts or locating a license plate number from years’ worth of photos. Instead of users spending time on these tasks, they can just ask Gemini to do it. Gemini is capable of cross-referencing data, for example, recognizing a car part from a photo and then locating the purchase confirmation in user emails. The feature is being rolled out in beta from January 14, exclusively for users with a Google AI Pro or AI Ultra subscription in the U.S. However, the feature is off by default, meaning users have to choose to let Gemini access their personal data.

    How to Activate the Feature

    If you are a paying subscriber and are interested in testing out the beta version, you can manually activate it if it does not pop up automatically. Open the Gemini app and go to settings. Tap on the new ‘Personal Intelligence’ menu. Select ‘Connected Apps’ to decide which services (like Gmail or Photos) Gemini can access.

    Google’s latest update is an attempt to make AI chatbot more personalized. By exploiting its extensive ecosystem, Google aims to transform Gemini into a practical assistant. However, this extensive level of integration has raised privacy concerns among users. Granting an AI model access to private emails and personal photos requires a substantial level of trust. Google, however, has assured that the personal data accessed via this feature will not be used to train the fundamental models, a crucial reassurance for users concerned about their privacy. With this move, Google aims to stay competitive with Apple Intelligence, which heavily relies on personal context available on-device.

    Still in Beta

    Although this feature seems incredibly useful in theory, its real-world effectiveness will depend on its execution. Google’s provided example—locating tire specs from an old photo and cross-referencing it with emails—speaks volumes about the potential usefulness of this technology. However, Google acknowledges that the AI might over-personalize or misconstrue the context. As this feature requires a paid subscription, it is primarily targeted at power users. If you are already engrossed in the Google ecosystem and pay for the premium tier, it might be worth opting in to potentially expedite your daily administrative tasks. Nonetheless, users should monitor what the AI pulls up.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new feature Google has introduced to Gemini?
    Google has introduced a new feature called ‘Personal Intelligence’ that allows Gemini to access information stored across various Google apps, including Gmail, Google Photos, and YouTube, to answer specific user queries.

    Who can access the new Personal Intelligence feature?
    The feature is being rolled out in beta from January 14, exclusively for users with a Google AI Pro or AI Ultra subscription in the U.S.

    What are the concerns related to this new feature?
    The primary concern is related to user privacy, as granting an AI model access to private emails and personal photos requires substantial trust. However, Google has assured that personal data accessed via this feature will not be used to train the fundamental models.

  • WhatsApp Unveils Update: New Features Tame Chaos in Group Chats

    WhatsApp Unveils Update: New Features Tame Chaos in Group Chats

    WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is starting the new year with a bang, introducing three new features aimed at enhancing the user experience and organizing group chats. The update includes member tags, text stickers, and early event reminders, which were previously seen in beta testing and are now officially part of the platform.

    Member Tags

    One of the challenges of large group chats is keeping track of who is who. WhatsApp is addressing this issue by introducing custom member tags that allow users to create unique identifiers for themselves within each group. For instance, you could label yourself as “Anna’s Dad” in the parents’ chat group for your child’s school or “Goalkeeper” in your Sunday league group. This feature provides context and clarity to conversations without the need to save everyone’s contact information.

    Text Stickers

    With the text sticker function, users tired of hunting for the perfect reaction GIF can now create their own. You simply type a word or phrase into the Sticker Search bar, and a custom sticker is generated instantly. These personalized creations can be added directly to your sticker pack without having to send them in a chat first, making the process of growing your collection more efficient.

    Early Event Reminders

    While WhatsApp introduced events some time ago, they have now become more intuitive. With the early event reminder feature, users can set personalized notifications to prompt invitees about an upcoming event. This is an excellent tool for ensuring punctuality and attendance, whether it’s for a party or a virtual meeting.

    These innovations are WhatsApp’s response to platforms like Discord and Slack, which have a more structured approach to group organization. The member tags feature mirrors Discord’s “Roles,” recognizing that WhatsApp groups have evolved beyond close-knit friends and now include interactions with strangers in semi-private spaces. Similarly, the event reminder update keeps the platform competitive with dedicated calendar apps.

    Quality of Life Update

    While these new features may not be groundbreaking, they certainly enhance the user experience. They streamline the process of group chat management and make interactions more meaningful, user-friendly, and organized. The event reminder feature, in particular, could prove to be an everyday tool to ensure prompt attendance at events.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of the new features introduced by WhatsApp?
    The new features are designed to enhance the user experience by organizing group chats and making them more intuitive and user-friendly.

    How do member tags work?
    Member tags allow users to create unique identifiers for themselves within each group. This provides context to conversations and eliminates the need to have everyone’s contact information.

    What are text stickers?
    Text stickers are a new feature that allows users to create custom stickers by typing a word or phrase into the Sticker Search bar. These can be added directly to your sticker pack for future use.

  • Revolutionizing Navigation: Google Maps iOS Update Autonomously Saves Your Parking Spot

    Revolutionizing Navigation: Google Maps iOS Update Autonomously Saves Your Parking Spot

    Google Maps has introduced a new feature for iOS users: the ability to automatically detect and save a user’s parking location. This function eliminates the need for manual input, which was previously required on both mobile devices and Android Auto. The updated system now allows the app to identify when your car has been parked and saves the location accordingly. When you return to your vehicle and begin driving, the app will erase the saved location.

    Feature Availability

    As of now, this feature is exclusively available for iOS users and operates when your phone is connected to your vehicle and Google Maps. The connection can be established via Bluetooth, USB, or CarPlay. The saved parking location will remain on the app for 48 hours unless manually removed or if the car is driven.

    Personalized Parking Icons

    Google Maps’ Senior Product Manager Rio Akasaka disclosed the news on LinkedIn, though Google has not officially announced the feature. Additionally, Akasaka revealed an add-on to the feature: Google Maps will use your customized car icon to mark your parking location in the app. If you do not use a custom car icon, the default “P” icon will be used.

    As of yet, there has been no information released regarding when or if the feature will be available on the Android platform. The delay in introducing this function to Google Maps is surprising, given that similar features have long been available on other navigation apps like Waze and Apple Maps.

    A Timely Update

    Even though I’ve never experienced parking confusion quite as catastrophic as in the movie ‘Dude, Where’s My Car?’, I’ve had my fair share of difficulty locating my vehicle. This straightforward feature is a simple solution that could have been incorporated into the app sooner. However, its overdue arrival is still appreciated.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new Google Maps feature for iOS users?
    Google Maps can now automatically detect and save a user’s parking location without requiring manual input.

    How does Google Maps connect with the car to use this feature?
    The connection between the vehicle and Google Maps can be established via Bluetooth, USB, or CarPlay.

    How is the parking location marked in the app?
    Google Maps will either use a user’s customized car icon or, in the absence of a personalized icon, the default “P” icon to mark the parking location.

  • Netflix Disables Mobile Casting to Most Modern TVs in Unexplained Update

    Netflix Disables Mobile Casting to Most Modern TVs in Unexplained Update

    The popular streaming platform, Netflix, has recently discontinued a feature that allowed shows to be cast from mobile devices to the majority of contemporary televisions. The reasons behind the decision remain unexplained.

    Changes in Casting Accessibility

    Netflix subscribers can no longer cast their desired shows from mobile devices to virtually any modern TV. According to an announcement on Netflix’s help page, the app has ceased to support casting shows from a mobile device to the majority of TVs and TV-streaming devices. For viewers to access Netflix, they’re now required to use the remote of their TV or streaming device to navigate the platform.

    The only exception to the new rule pertains to casting to older Chromecast devices and televisions that are compatible with Google Cast. Netflix has clarified that this privilege is only available to users who are subscribed to its ad-free plans. Unfortunately, those who own a Google TV Streamer, Chromecast with Google TV, or an Android TV-powered television will no longer be able to cast Netflix from its mobile app.

    Netflix’s decision to disable this feature is not entirely surprising. Back in 2019, the streaming giant discontinued support for Apple’s AirPlay feature, citing the inability to differentiate between the diverse range of devices that support AirPlay as the reason. This made it difficult for Netflix to ensure the highest-quality viewing experience across all devices.

    The Ad-Supported Tier

    Netflix’s ad-supported subscription model, introduced in 2022, never offered support for Google Cast and Chromecast-only devices. However, the “Basic with ads” plan previously permitted casting to Google TV-equipped devices, including both the 4K and HD versions of the Chromecast with Google TV.

    Implications for Netflix Users

    Netflix has always been stringent about password sharing and the use of accounts on TVs situated in different locations. Historically, casting from a mobile device was a secure workaround, particularly for those on the move or visiting friends and family.

    The recent change complicates the process of watching Netflix on hotel TVs, which may cause some users to reconsider their subscriptions.

    Questions & Answers

    Why can’t shows be cast from mobile devices to most modern TVs anymore?
    Netflix has stopped supporting the casting of shows from mobile devices to most TVs and TV-streaming devices, although no specific reasons were provided.

    Are there any exceptions to this new rule?
    Yes, casting is still possible to older Chromecast devices and TVs that support Google Cast, but only for users on Netflix’s ad-free plans.

    How has this change affected the viewing habits of Netflix users?
    This change could potentially complicate the viewing habits of users who frequently travel or prefer casting shows from their mobile devices to TVs in different locations.

  • Unlock Personalized Deals and Tailored Ads with Google Wallet’s Latest Update: Here’s How

    Unlock Personalized Deals and Tailored Ads with Google Wallet’s Latest Update: Here’s How

    Google has been improving its Google Wallet app, making it a convenient hub for Android users to digitally store items such as credit and debit cards, passports, tickets, and transit passes. Despite these features, Google Wallet may not be as frequently used as other Google apps, such as YouTube, Messages, Keep, Drive, Email, Chrome, and the Google app.

    Upcoming Changes to Google Wallet

    However, Google Wallet should not be disregarded. Reports suggest that Google has been undergoing modifications to enhance the app’s utility. Insights from a recent teardown of the Wallet app indicate that Google is developing the Google Transit Card. This feature will enable users to pay for public transportation using a specific card without the necessity to unlock their phone, an addition that will undoubtedly be beneficial and time-saving for daily commuters.

    Additionally, the Wallet app is set to offer unique deals based on the loyalty cards stored within the app, provided certain settings are enabled.

    Data Management and Privacy Settings

    A forthcoming update to the Google Wallet app will allow U.S. users to manage their data and privacy settings. These settings can be utilised to create personalised experiences across Google. With your Google Wallet payment information and activity enabled for personalising content and experiences across Google, you will be able to view recommendations or deals based on the loyalty cards in your wallet.

    Google can utilise your purchasing information and details about the loyalty cards in your wallet to provide special deals and personalised ads that may be of interest to you. If you are uncomfortable sharing information about your wallet’s loyalty cards and purchases with Google, these settings can be disabled.

    Enabling Personalisation Settings

    To enable this setting in the app, open the Google Wallet app and tap on the profile icon in the upper right corner. Navigate to Your data in Wallet > Manage data from Wallet and payments services, then toggle on or off the setting Use Wallet to personalise experiences across Google.

    If you’re using a desktop computer, go to wallet.google.com, select Settings from the left sidebar, then under “Data & Privacy,” toggle on or off Use Wallet to personalise experiences across Google.

    Wallet History for Personalised Ads

    The Wallet History feature uses information from Google Wallet and payment services to help Google serve you more customised and useful ads. This setting can be turned on within the app by navigating to Your data in Wallet > Manage data from Wallet and payments services > Use Wallet to personalise Google Ads. Users can toggle this setting on or off at My Ad Center.

    This setting can also be activated via desktop by going to wallet.google.com, selecting Settings on the left, then under “Data & Privacy,” toggling on or off Use Wallet to personalise Google Ads. Users will be directed to My Ad Center to complete the process.

    When both settings are enabled, Google will utilise the data from your purchases, loyalty cards, event tickets, and boarding passes to offer more personalised services. These can manifest as personalised ads, promotions, and recommendations.

    Rolling out the Update

    Google has stated that the update to Google Wallet will be gradually rolled out. Users who do not yet see these settings in the Google Wallet app should expect to receive them in due course. When the settings become available in your Google Wallet app, you will receive a notification from Google.

    Questions & Answers

    What updates are being made to the Google Wallet app?
    In addition to the existing features, Google is reportedly developing a Google Transit Card to simplify payments for public transportation, and is also enhancing data and privacy settings to offer personalised experiences based on stored loyalty cards.

    What is the Google Transit Card?
    The Google Transit Card is a new feature being developed for the Google Wallet app. It will allow users to pay for public transportation using a specific card, without having to unlock their phone.

    How can I personalise my experience on Google Wallet?
    With the upcoming update, users can manage their data and privacy settings, which will then be used to offer personalised deals and recommendations based on the loyalty cards stored in your wallet. You can also enable Wallet History to receive more customised ads.

  • Apple Set To Extend Proprietary 5g Modem Use To Iphone 18 Series: A Strategic Shift

    Apple Set To Extend Proprietary 5g Modem Use To Iphone 18 Series: A Strategic Shift

    Apple has been known to use its proprietary C1X 5G modem specifically in the iPhone Air, while still utilizing a Qualcomm modem for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro. However, indications are emerging that the tech giant is set to alter this approach with the forthcoming iPhone 18.

    Expansion of Apple-Branded Cellular Modems

    In a recent move towards an increased use of Apple-manufactured cellular modems across a broader product range, indications are strong that the iPhone 18 and its Pro version will be the next items on the list. Arun Mathias, Apple’s Vice President of Wireless Software Technologies and Ecosystems, hinted at this ambition during a recent dialogue with CNBC.

    Mathias responded to queries about the lack of Apple modems in the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max by explaining that the company’s focus had been on meeting the requirements for the iPhone Air. Nevertheless, Mathias added that the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro remain excellent products, and Apple’s proprietary cellular solutions will feature more prominently in future devices. Mathias said, “While our concentration has been primarily on the iPhone Air, we acknowledge the excellence of our iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro. Over time, we anticipate seeing more products equipped with Apple’s cellular solutions.”

    Apple’s Move Towards Greater Control

    Mathias’ statement aligns with emerging speculations that the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro will feature Apple’s 5G modem. This shift presents Apple with an opportunity to gain further control over their devices, potentially leading to multiple enhancements.

    Apple has previously used its in-house C1 modem in the iPhone 16e, symbolizing a departure from Qualcomm’s modems. In a curious parallel, Samsung has been providing cellular modems for the Pixel 10 devices, while relying on Qualcomm’s modems for its own Galaxy S25. This might also change with the anticipated Galaxy S26 if Samsung decides to incorporate the Exynos 2600.

    Perceptible Differences for Users

    While Apple’s move away from Qualcomm is noteworthy, the typical user may not observe a significant difference in connectivity unless there is a major technological advance or failure. This does not render the change insignificant; rather, it suggests that it may not result in any noticeable improvements for the average iPhone user.

    Questions & Answers

    Why has Apple not used its own modems in the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro?
    Apple’s focus was on the needs of the iPhone Air. However, the company plans to use its own cellular solutions in more devices in the future.

    What change can we expect in the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro?
    It is highly likely that Apple’s 5G modem will be used in the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro, giving Apple more control over its devices.

    Will users notice a difference in connectivity with the use of Apple’s own cellular modems?
    Unless there’s a major technological development or failure, most users may not notice any significant changes in connectivity.

  • WhatsApp testing new duration feature for community group chat events

    WhatsApp testing new duration feature for community group chat events

    WhatsApp, the popular and global messaging app, is now testing a new feature that will let users set a start and end time for events created in community announcement groups. This feature, which is currently available to some beta testers, will make it easier for people to plan their schedules and avoid conflicts.

    The new duration feature will appear when creating an event in a community announcement group. Users will be able to select a start time and an end time for the event, and this information will be displayed to all members of the group. This will help people to see at a glance when an event is happening and how long it will last, so they can plan their time accordingly.

    The duration feature is particularly useful for large communities where multiple events might be scheduled. By having clear start and end times for each event, members can avoid scheduling conflicts and ensure that they are able to attend all the events that they are interested in.

    In addition to helping people to plan their schedules, the duration feature can also help to keep events structured and timely. By setting an end time for an event, organizers can ensure that it doesn’t drag on too long and that people are able to leave when they need to. This can be especially helpful for events that require preparation or follow-up, as participants can allocate appropriate time for these tasks.

    The duration feature is still in beta testing, but it is expected to be rolled out to all users in the near future. Providing tools that make it easier to create and manage events, is just one of many new features that WhatsApp is working on, as the company continues to improve its platform and make it more useful for its users.

  • Skype rolls out update with new features for both Android and iOS

    Skype rolls out update with new features for both Android and iOS

    If your company uses Skype for communication – or you simply can’t let go of the iconic messenger – you’ll be thrilled to learn about its most recent update: build 8.118!

    This update brings improvements for all users regardless of the platform Skype’s been used on: Android, iOS and desktop.

    Overall, the update gives Android users more control over their camera. With in-chat camera customization, Skype will remember your last used settings, including whether you prefer the front-facing camera or the rear camera, even if you switched in-between.

    Finding specific chats is also easier now with chat sorting. A new bottom sheet has a new filter menu through which you can sort chats by recent messages, unread messages, or active conversations.

    For Apple users, notifications and in-app messages now synchronize faster. Tapping a notification now instantly brings you to the relevant message thread, with preloaded messages ready to view.

    In-chat Camera Customization That Remembers

    Embrace the personal touch with Skype’s latest Android update – your chat camera now remembers your last used settings, ensuring your best side is always ready for its close-up.

    • Selfie-Ready: Love the front cam? Skype now defaults to your preference in chat, saving you a click.
    • Stick with Your Pick: Flipped? Set it once and Skype’s chat camera keeps it just so for next time.
    • Snap Back to It: Revisit the chat and your camera’s just as you left it, for seamless sharing

    Streamlined Chat Sorting

    Finding your focus in Skype chats is now sleeker and more intuitive with our new bottom sheet design.

    • Filter with Flair: Tap and unveil a modern, user-friendly filter menu right in your chat list.
    • Customized Chat Visibility: Easily toggle between seeing recent chats, unread messages, or active conversations.
    • Design that Delivers: Enjoy a fresh look with essential features at your fingertips – designed for the way you communicate on mobile.

    Skype Desktop’s GIF Picker Gets a Speed Boost!

    Our latest desktop update means finding the perfect GIF is quicker than ever.

    • Speedy Selection: Wave goodbye to waiting; your GIF picker is now turbocharged for instant fun.
    • Slick Browsing: Glide through categories with a smoother experience, no more loading lags!
    • Optimized Performance: Enjoy quicker, crisper GIF rendering to express yourself in a flash.

    iOS Lightning-Fast Message Sync from Notification click!

    Goodbye lag, hello instant chat! We’ve turbocharged Skype for iOS.

    • Instant Message Sync: Notifications and in-app messages now sync up faster than ever. No more waiting!
    • Preloaded Chats: Messages are fetched in the background, ready when you are. Tap a notification, and your message is right there!
    • Smooth Experience: Our behind-the-scenes tweaks ensure a more responsive and satisfying Skype.
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  • Microsoft Copilot’s latest update adds new UI on Android and iOS devices

    Microsoft Copilot’s latest update adds new UI on Android and iOS devices

    Formally introduced last month after being tested for about a year, Microsoft’s Copilot for Android and iOS devices has just received a major update that adds a new UI. Rolling out in waves, the update brings a more streamlined look and feel specifically designed to help users take advantage of Copilot’s AI-powered features.

    With more than 5 billion chats and 5 billion images created to date, Copilot is slowly becoming one of the biggest AI-powered tools available. The chatbot developed by Microsoft allows users to go beyond just creative images to now customize their generated images with inline editing right inside the app thanks to Designer.

    Although some of the features offered by Copilot require a subscription, almost all of them have a free version that at least allows users to figure out if they’re worth paying for.

    For example, Copilot Pro subscribers can also resize and regenerate images between square and landscape without leaving chat and customizing the images with Designer.

    Finally, Microsoft announced that it will soon roll out the new Designer GPT inside Copilot, offering users a more immersive, dedicated canvas inside the chatbot.

    Microsoft’s Copilot is available for free and works on Microsoft Edge, Chrome, Firefox and Safari. All the changes announced this week will be rolled out on iOS, Android, and the web.

    Lees ook:

  • Software update is coming to fix annoying bug on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2

    Software update is coming to fix annoying bug on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2

    Apple has sent out an internal memo to these authorized repair shops to let them know that the company is aware of an issue with the Apple Watch models released last year.

    The memo, which MacRumors obtained, says “Some customers may report their Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2 is experiencing false touches on their display.” Apple adds that some customers might say that their Apple Watch model is experiencing “ghost touches.” Owners of impacted Apple Watch models say that the screen will “jump erratically” or take other actions even if the user has not interacted with the device. The problem could cause users to be unable to enter their passcode or have an accidental phone call made

    The tweet from @StellaFudge notes that Apple has told technicians working at authorized service centers and, we assume, at Apple Stores as well, not to replace any Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Ultra 2 units exhibiting this problem. Instead, Apple is telling technicians to inform customers that Apple will soon be issuing a software update that will resolve the problem.

    With that in mind, Apple is telling Apple Watch owners to make sure that they keep their devices updated and running the latest version of watchOS, especially since the touch issue is expected to be fixed via a software update. Apple didn’t give a timeframe as to when we can expect the update to arrive. However, the company is recommending that those experiencing this problem on their Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2 force restart their timepieces to see if that helps solve the problem before any update is sent.

    To force restart either Apple Watch model, hold down the Digital Crown and the side button at the same time for at least 10 seconds, until the Apple logo appears. If this doesn’t rid your Apple Watch of the “ghost touch” issue, you will have to be patient and wait for Apple to push out a software update aimed at exterminating this bug.

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  • Update to iOS 17.1 brings an important change to the Action Button

    Update to iOS 17.1 brings an important change to the Action Button

    The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max have the new Action Button above the volume rocker that replaced the Mute switch. With the new Pro models, the Action Button can be set to have a certain action take place when the button is pressed. To customize the button, the user goes to Settings > Action Button. The first Action that you can set the button to do is to act as a Silent mode switch that turns the Silent mode on or off which is exactly what the Mute switch used to do.

    Swipe to the left once and you get the next option, Focus, which silences notifications and filters out distractions. Other options appear as you swipe to the left including the ability to tap the button and open the camera, turn on the flashlight, start and stop recording a voice memo, use your phone as a magnifying glass, activate your favorite shortcut, use an accessibility feature, or have the Action Button take no action when pressed. When you find the Action option you want, just leave the appropriate icon showing on the image of the Action Button on the screen and leave the page.

    Cde discovered by 9to5Mac in iOS 17.1 beta 3, which was released to developers today, reveals that Apple is making a change to the Action Button. When the phone, using the proximity sensors, detects that it is in your pocket, the Action Button will require a longer press to activate. This prevents the feature from accidentally getting activated when the iPhone is inside your pocket.

    There is no setup required for the new feature to work and it will be automatically enabled for iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max users as soon as they install iOS 17.1 (once it is released). An accidental “pocket” activation of the Action Button on an iPhone 15 Pro series model could set off a shortcut that you’ve created that might disable the ringer, for example, turn off other features of the phone without you knowing, share your location and even share the last image you snapped.

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