Apps
Samsung Wallet/Pay service gets a boost for Galaxy Watch
Samsung has released a new update for the Wallet/Pay app on the Galaxy Watch with version 5.1.82.20406. This update brings some enhancements to make the app easier and better to use.
The latest update prioritizes service enhancements. While the changelog doesn’t specify the details, users can expect the app to be faster and more reliable. This means you can access your wallet and make payments quickly, without any delays.
Additionally, this update fixes some issues that users faced in earlier versions. By addressing issues, Samsung aims to make the app more stable and user-friendly.
With this latest update, users can look forward to a smoother experience when managing payments and tracking expenses directly from their watch. The app allows users to handle their financial needs conveniently, right on their wrist.
Galaxy Watch users are encouraged to install the latest update to take advantage of the improvements in the Samsung Wallet/Pay app. For that, you just need to connect your watch to your smartphone and open Galaxy Store >> Menu option >> Updates.
If the update is available, you can install it to enjoy enhanced features. Also, you can download the update from the third-party app link mentioned here.
Google recently released new individual contacts Tile with Google Contacts app, which could soon be available for Galaxy Watch users. If you are using this app, check if a new Tile is available.
Your Galaxy Watch could soon get new Google Contacts Wear OS Tile
WhatsApp lets you search shared images on the web
WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature for Android users, which allows them to search images shared in chats on the web. This feature is currently available to some beta testers and helps users check the authenticity of images they receive to make it easier to spot fake or edited images.
Previously, WhatsApp hinted at working on the Search images on the web feature in the 2.24.21.31 beta update. Now, it’s being tested with a select group of beta users with version 2.24.23.13.
With this latest beta update, WhatsApp users can now search for images they receive in chats by using a Search on Web option. This option appears when you tap the three-dot menu on an image in your chat.
This new feature allows you to perform a reverse image search through Google to help you find more information about the image. This is especially useful for checking images that may be misleading or fake.
Instead of downloading or manually uploading an image for a search, you can now do it directly within WhatsApp with this new feature.
Notably, the feature is optional, meaning users can choose whether to use it or not. If you decide to search for an image, it’s sent to Google for the reverse search, but WhatsApp itself doesn’t store or process the image to ensure your privacy.
This feature is available to some beta testers who have installed the latest WhatsApp beta update from the Google Play Store. It will be rolled out to more users over the next few weeks
WhatsApp replaces camera shortcut with gallery access in chat bar
Apps
Google Photos gets a makeover with ‘Updates’ feed
Google has made a significant change to its Google Photos app by replacing its “Sharing” page with a new “Updates” feed. Back in August 2024, the app changes the “Library” to the “Collections” tab to enhance user experience.
The Updates feed has a new notification bell icon, which is located in place of the Sharing option in the app bar, between the ‘plus’ menu and profile picture. It allows users to see recent sharing updates, including conversations and shared links.
When you click on the bell icon, it opens the “Updates” feed, which lets you access two options including Sharing activity and Conversations in the overflow menu.
The Sharing activity shows all your sharing activity in one place, which makes it easier to keep track of what you’ve shared, along with any shared links and memories. On the other side, the Conversations option displays a list of conversations.
In the old version, users could find sharing options by clicking a ‘people’ icon. The Sharing page had shortcuts for creating shared albums and sharing with partners, along with an “Albums and Memories” section and a list of “Conversations.” Now, all of this has been simplified.
The use of a new bell icon is similar to what you find in other Google apps like Home, the Play Store, and YouTube, which helps make the app feel more familiar and user-friendly.
Right now, the “Updates” feed is being rolled out for Android users, but there’s no news yet on when it will be available for iOS devices.
Apps
Android Auto 13.2 update adds new charging options for EVs
Google has rolled out the new update for Android Auto with version 13.2, which comes with some exciting updates. It is available on the Google Play Store for Android devices.
Android Auto 13.2 update brings support for more charging connectors, including the NACS (North American Charging Standard) for Tesla cars. Additionally, it introduces two new types of connectors, Type 6 and LECCS (Light Electric Combined Charging System).
LECCS is mainly used for light electric vehicles, like electric scooters. It is designed in India for LEVs like Ather. This suggests that we might see some Android Auto features for scooters in the future.
In addition to LECCS support, the latest Android Auto update improves the experience for electric vehicles by allowing connections to various cars that use NACS. This includes vehicles from brands like Ford, GM, Kia, Volvo, and Rivian. This update shows that Google is making things easier for electric vehicle drivers.
In addition to LECCS support, Android Auto 13.2 improves the experience for electric vehicles by allowing connections to various cars that use NACS. This includes vehicles from brands like Ford, GM, Kia, Volvo, and Rivian.
The fresh update shows that Google is making things easier for electric vehicle drivers. If you’re interested in trying out the new features, you can download the Android Auto 13.2.644404 stable update right now.
Goodbye to Android 8
Android Auto has recently ditched its support for Android 8 phones. It means that if you have a phone running Android 8, you can no longer use Android Auto. While the features work well on older software, the newer versions like Android 9 include better new features and better experience.