Android
Security on top: Android 14 won’t allow you to install outdated apps
With Android 14, Google will, most likely, stop allowing users to install outdated apps on their smartphones. A new code change, via 9to5Google, suggests that Android 14 will make API requirements stricter in order to completely block the installation of outdated apps.
This API will make impact on a number of apps available on the Google Play Store that have not been updated to a new version for a certain time. In addition, this change would also restrict users from sideloading specific APK files and also block app stores from installing those same apps.
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It’s reported that Android 14 devices will initially block apps that target especially old Android versions. Later on, the restrictions may expand to Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), with Google having a mechanism to “progressively ramp [it] up.” Android vendors will be allowed to customize the restrictions or not use them on their own.
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The report mentions that the Android maker plans to stop the spread of malware apps on the operating system. The developer responsible for the change notes that some malware apps have intentionally targeted older versions of Android to bypass certain protections only enforced on newer apps.
If the minimum installable SDK version enforcement is enabled, block the install of apps using a lower target SDK version than required. This helps improve security and privacy as malware can target older SDK versions to avoid enforcement of new API behavior.
The requirements for the Google Play Store have long assured that Android app developers keep their apps updated to take advantage of the newest features and security precautions. Recent revisions to the rules mandate that newly added Play Store apps target Android 12 at the very least.
Android
WhatsApp to introduce reaction notification feature for status updates
WhatsApp for Android is rolling out a new beta update, which enhances user interaction with status updates by developing a new reaction notification feature. Users can identify the new beta update through version 2.24.9.29 on Android devices.
Previously, WhatsApp had been working on a quick reaction feature. The latest beta version goes a step further by providing an option to turn off notifications for ‘Like reactions.’ This means users can choose not to be notified every time someone reacts to their status, which could be particularly useful for those who receive many reactions.
This feature is beneficial as it allows users to reduce disruptions by preventing their notification panel from being cluttered with WhatsApp reaction notifications. But for those who prefer to view reactions at their convenience, this update will allow them to do so without the constant alerts.
Moreover, WhatsApp aims to enhance users’ control over their notifications and let them decide how they want to engage with status updates. This update is still under development, so stay tuned more details will be shared as they become available.
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Android
Google Android 15 Beta 1.1 update fixes NFC issue and more
Google has released the Android 15 Beta 1.1 update for pixel devices, which includes a series of bug fixes following the previous version released two weeks ago. It is available for several Pixel devices, from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 8 Pro, including the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold.
Identified via version AP31.240322.023, the Android 15 Beta 1.1 update comes with the latest security patch for April 2024. It addresses several issues, particularly with NFC which had been causing disruptions in wallet applications and other related system functions.
Moreover, the update resolves a problem that caused crashes in the Developer Options settings screen. It also fixes issues that were preventing some devices from properly updating to the initial Beta 1 release. Additionally, a fix has been implemented for a problem related to text clipping during printing tasks.
For users who are part of the Android Beta for Pixel program, the Beta 1.1 update will be provided as an over-the-air (OTA) update. Users can also manually install the update to enjoy error-free and enhanced service.
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Android
Android 15 to boost wireless charging with NFC support
Google plans to introduce support for NFC Wireless charging (WLC) with Android 15. This feature is a significant development for charging small electronic devices. Unlike the widely-used Qi wireless charging, NFC wireless charging does not require large coils, making it ideal for devices with limited internal space.
With the Android 15 update, NFC wireless charging is expected to become more common in smaller devices such as earbuds, styluses, smartwatches, and tracker tags. This support will enhance user convenience and device functionality.
Announced in 2020, the NFC Wireless Charging technology uses antennas that are reportedly smaller than one centimeter. These antennas are versatile, serving both as a means for wireless charging and NFC data transfer. This dual functionality is particularly beneficial for smaller devices.
The slow adoption of NFC Wireless Charging in the market has been attributed to a lack of support from major operating systems. However, the recent Android 15 beta release indicates that Google is now integrating NFC Wireless Charging capabilities into the Android platform. This move could lead to an increase in WLC-enabled accessories.
This feature could transform the charging of devices like tracker tags, which could use NFC for both power and data, and styluses that comply with the USI 2.0 specification.
Android 15 might allow Google Play to update your phone’s NFC
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