Apps
Google adds Material You widget to Gmail via new update
Just recently, Google has introduced a very powerful new Material You widget for Gmail. This feature is rolling out for Gmail through an update with version number 2021.10.31. Current this latest version is available through the Play Store.
With the Material you redesigned, Gmail has modernized its existing widgets with only a little dynamic color. It is still a simple list, with a compose button in the bottom right corner. The new version (via- 9to5google) of Gmail switched to a design that matches Google Keep with a big headline indicating the name of the folder you selected.
The rounded square FAB appears in the upper right corner, with the narrowest layout, displaying a list of messages (sender, subject, and time), and an archive button on the right. Gmail no longer displays the first line of emails.
An unread count will be displayed next to FAB because it is difficult to distinguish between new and read messages. This is mainly because the background fully supports dynamic colors, no longer just white or dark gray.
After increasing the width, you’ll get a bottom bar with shortcuts to open Gmail directly on the Chats, Spaces, or Meetings tabs. Also, the reduced height (fourth) will switch to the right sidebar layout.
Moreover, this new powerful widget allows users to sort their inboxes and jump directly to the app from their home screen. It is essentially a mini-app and an alternative method of deleting/archiving from the notification bar.
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Android users get iOS-like contact syncing feature with fresh WhatsApp Beta
WhatsApp has released a fresh update for beta users on Android with version 2.24.21.26. This update introduces a new feature that gives users more control over how their contacts are synced across different devices on WhatsApp.
The latest update allows users to add, edit, or delete contacts from any device linked to their WhatsApp account, such as tablets or computers. It means that any changes made on one device will automatically sync to all other connected devices. It helps contact list up-to-date no matter where you are.
For those who want to keep personal and work contacts separate, there’s an option to disable syncing for specific accounts. This lets users prevent certain contacts from showing up in their WhatsApp to maintain privacy.
Moreover, WhatsApp also adds extra security by using cryptographic hashes to protect the phone numbers of contacts who aren’t on the app. This ensures that user data remains safe while still allowing WhatsApp to monitor for any unusual activity related to contact uploads.
Users can still chat with their existing contacts as the app remains fully functional, even with contact syncing turned off. If someone switches to a new phone or reinstalls WhatsApp, their linked contacts will automatically be restored easily.
WhatsApp contact syncing feature was already available to iOS users, and now Android beta testers can enjoy the same benefit. As the update rolls out, more users will have the chance to try this privacy feature.
WhatsApp introduces notification activity feature for group chats
WhatsApp is bringing a new feature to improve notification management, especially for group chats through a new beta update. The fresh version of WhatsApp is available with version 2.24.21.22 in the Google Play Beta Program.
The new beta update of WhatsApp adds a new notification activity feature for group chats. It will let users choose how they want to receive notifications. There are two choices – All and Relevant to me.
- All: Users can get notifications for every message in the group.
- Relevant to Me: They will receive only important ones like mentions and replies.
In this way, users can easily manage large groups as the features help to reduce unnecessary messages. This change is particularly helpful for those in large groups.
Additionally, the new notification activity screen will help explain how muting group chats works. Currently, some users find it confusing when they still receive notifications from muted groups.
The new feature aims to make this clearer as it allows users to see exactly what types of notifications they can still receive, even when a group is muted.
WhatsApp is currently working on these features to enhance user experience and will make them available in future updates. Till then, stay tuned with us.
WhatsApp introduces new filters and backgrounds for video calls
Apps
Here’s why Samsung apps getting One UI 7 support early
Samsung Galaxy users are excitedly waiting for the upcoming One UI 7 update after the release of One UI 6.1.1. There have been some leaks and rumors about its features and release date. Even though the Beta Program hasn’t started yet, Samsung is already updating its stock apps to get them ready for One UI 7 software.
You might be wondering why Samsung is bringing One UI 7 support to Galaxy apps ahead of its release. The reason behind it is very simple. The company is ensuring that these apps work smoothly with One UI 7 when it’s released.
By updating these apps ahead of time, Samsung aims to avoid issues like lagging or crashing to provide users with a better experience from the start. At the moment, Samsung has rolled out One UI 7 support to some Galaxy apps including Galaxy Store, Galaxy Themes, and Samsung Wonderland.
Overall, Samsung’s early updates to its apps are all about making them compatible with the new operating system. Users can expect a seamless transition when One UI 7 finally releases.
As we enter October 2024, many users are eagerly waiting for more news about the One UI 7 Beta. So far, Samsung hasn’t shared any official details, leaving everyone curious about what’s coming.
However, there’s a chance for good news soon. Samsung is going to host the Samsung Developer Conference 2024 (SDC24) on October 3, 2024. This event might include announcements related to One UI 7, like its features and when it will be available. Stay tuned for more information.
One UI 7 may expand One UI 6.1.1 features to non-flagship devices