Apps
Google Photos introduces native share sheet for Android 14 devices
Google Photos has a new share sheet on Android 14 devices. This feature allows you to access more options and actions when you want to share an image with someone. It is native to Android 14, which means that it replaces the custom implementation that Google Photos used before.
To use the new share sheet, you just need to tap on the share icon when viewing an image in Google Photos. You will see a Sharing image sheet that slides up from the bottom of the screen. You can modify the selection of images by tapping on the “Modify” button in the top-right corner.
The share sheet has four sections:
- The first section shows a preview of the selected image(s) with a pencil icon that lets you edit your images with the Markup tool.
- The second section shows a carousel of Google Photos actions, such as Create Link, Send in Photos, Add to Album, and Create Album.
- The third section shows Direct Share targets, which are contacts or apps that you frequently share with.
- The fourth section shows a grid of all the apps that you can share with.
The new share sheet is rolling out with Google Photos version 5.65 on Android 14 Pixel phones. It is not yet available on large-screen devices, such as tablets. If you have an older version of Android, you will still see the old share sheet.
Apps
YouTube gets major UI revamp and 3-minute Shorts feature
YouTube is rolling out a major UI redesign to improve how users experience the platform on mobile, web, and TV. This new UI makes the interface cleaner and more enjoyable to offer a fresh frosted glass look that enhances navigation.
With the fresh update, YouTube updates its bottom navigation bar. This new bar now has refreshed icons for Home, the ‘plus’ menu, Subscriptions, and Your Profile. These changes help users to find what they need more quickly.
Talking about the top and bottom bars look, the frosted glass effect makes them more modern and lets users see some of the content underneath.
On smartphones, YouTube is enhancing landscape mode. Users will notice larger thumbnails and bigger text, which make it easier to browse. This update will first be available on Android, with iOS users set to receive it later this year.
Another exciting update is that creators can now upload 3-minute Shorts. This gives them more options for content. However, it may take a little time for these new uploads to show up as Shorts in different sections of the app.
Aside from this, YouTube is also adding features that create a more cinematic experience for TV viewers. Now, channel pages will automatically play a selected video from the creator to give viewers a quick preview. In addition, a new Shorts player on TV lets users read comments and shop without stopping the video they’re watching.
Overall, YouTube is introducing several features and improvements to make the platform more friendly and engaging for everyone. These updates are a significant step toward enhancing the YouTube experience for users across all devices.
YouTube Shorts just got longer, 3 minute videos coming October 15
WhatsApp introduces Grey Ring to keep status updates visible in chats tab
WhatsApp is bringing a Grey Ring for status updates via the latest beta update. This update is available for Android users with version 2.24.22.2 through the Google Play Beta Program.
The new feature allows users to view previously seen status updates directly from the chats tab. It makes it easier to revisit content without navigating back to the Status tab.
With this new beta update, WhatsApp is improving how users interact with status updates. In the past, when someone posted a new status, a ring appeared around their profile picture in the chats tab. This ring will disappear once you view the status.
Now, WhatsApp is making a change so that the ring remains visible, even after you have seen the status. However, the ring changes color and turns grey after the status is viewed.
This grey ring indicates that you can still tap on it to view the status again. This makes it convenient for users who want to revisit a status without having to go back to the Status tab.
Currently, this Grey Ring Status feature is available to some beta testers who have installed the latest WhatsApp beta update. The feature is gradually rolling out to beta users and WhatsApp plans to make it available to all users soon via future updates.
WhatsApp unveils new limit of 20 lists for better chat organization
Apps
Samsung Video Player update delivers enhanced viewing experience
Samsung has just released an update for its Video Player app with version 7.3.29.1. This fresh update is available on the Galaxy Store with a package size of 9.36MB. It makes the app easier to use while fixing some bugs.
The latest update brings some improvements and bug fixes. Users will find the app easier to navigate and enjoy their videos more seamlessly. Additionally, the bug fixes included in this update are likely to resolve minor issues that may have affected playback or usability in previous versions.
Back in September 2024, users of Galaxy A series devices reported that when they tried to play videos in the Gallery app, they encountered a black screen with sound but no visuals. The new fresh update is expected to fix this issue.
By regularly updating the Video Player app, Samsung ensures that users have the best possible experience while watching videos on their devices. So, if you have received the fresh update, install it now.
For installation of Samsung Video Player 7.3.29.1 update, visit Galaxy Store >> Menu option >> Updates. Also, you can get the update from the third-party app source link mentioned here.
Samsung Video Player is a built-in app designed specifically for Galaxy phones and tablets. It provides powerful video playback and has a user-friendly interface.
For an even better experience, users can install the Samsung Video Library app. This companion app allows you to easily view and manage your videos. With the Video Library, you can quickly access all your media in one place, making it simpler to find what you want to watch.
Samsung confirms update to fix Galaxy A15/A24 video playback issues