Apps
Samsung enhances SmartThings app with Dark Mode for iOS and iPadOS
Samsung has updated its SmartThings app for iPhone and iPad, which adds new features for users with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. Identified via version 1.7.19, the fresh update includes a Dark Mode icon to make it easier for users who prefer darker themes.
When you turn on Dark Mode on your device, the SmartThings app icon now changes to a black background with a blue SmartThings logo. This update helps the app look more stylish, especially in low-light settings. It also works well with tinted icons to create a consistent look on your iPhone or iPad.
In addition to the new icon, the update improves the Remote Controller section of the app. The buttons now have a more modern design with a slight shadow effect, making them easier to see and use. While these changes are a step forward, some users may still wish for more improvements.
Furthermore, the Samsung SmartThing app 1.7.19 update for iOS and iPadOS brings the ability to share SmartThings routines with others. This makes it simple for friends or family to collaborate on managing smart home tasks.
Aside from this, it also supports group management for those using a SmartThings Hub. It helps users control their connected devices more efficiently. Users can get this update via the App Store.
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