Samsung
Samsung Galaxy users can now enjoy Google’s revamped Circle to Search design
Google has recently revamped its Circle to Search feature, which is now available for Samsung Galaxy users. While the update is still rolling out to a limited group, it will soon be available for everyone. This update is part of the latest update of the Google app, which aims at improving the search experience.
The fresh update brings the look of the Circle to Search feature. The search bar now has a chunkier, rounded box around it, with buttons surrounding the search bar and elements. This gives the interface a more organized and modern appearance.
Moreover, the Translate and Google Lens buttons, which were previously part of the search bar, are now moved to an app drawer. To access these features, you will need to tap on the new app drawer button instead of having them directly in the search bar.
While some users might find this extra tap a little inconvenient, the app drawer helps keep the search bar neat and free of clutter. It also makes room for new features that Google might add in the future.
Aside from this, the Music Search button still stays next to the search bar, but users are hoping Google will eventually allow more customization for which shortcuts appear.
Google had already removed the Lens button from the search bar a few weeks ago, and this update takes the next step in making the interface clearer.
To try out the revamped Circle to Search design, make sure you have the latest version of the Google app installed on your Samsung phone. The update is gradually rolling out to Samsung Galaxy users and will be available to everyone soon.
Samsung collaborates with UnionBank for the introduction of a new financing program called Samsung Finance+. This partnership aims to make Galaxy devices more affordable for the Philippines.
Samsung Finance+ service allows customers to buy Galaxy products with flexible payment options, including 0% interest, no processing fees, and down payments as low as 0%l. It is available at Samsung Experience Stores and over 1,000 partner retailers nationwide.
The application process for Samsung Finance+ is simple and fully digital, taking just 20-30 minutes to complete. Once approved, customers can choose from a wide range of Galaxy devices, including popular models like the Galaxy A16 LTE, Galaxy Z Fold 6, Galaxy Z Flip 6, and the Galaxy S24 Series. Customers can then pay for their device over up to 24 months with 0% interest.
For more security, Samsung Finance+ is powered by Samsung Knox Guard. This feature helps protect the device against theft, loss, or default by allowing users to remotely lock their phones in case they are lost or stolen.
The program not only helps customers afford the latest Galaxy devices but also encourages better financial habits. The Samsung Finance+ app allows users to easily manage their payment schedules and view loan details.
Min Su Chu, Samsung Electronics Philippines President said, “Our goal is to provide the opportunity for more Philippines to experience the Galaxy ecosystem. With Samsung Finance+, owning a Galaxy device is now easier, more accessible, and worry-free than ever before.”
Samsung’s Customer Service Store opens in Macquarie Center, Sydney
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a nice phone if you are considering upgrading your S21 Ultra. The upcoming flagship comes with many upgrades over your current phone. It also features a similar design that has no sharp angular corners.
Compared to the Galaxy S21 Ultra, the Galaxy S25 Ultra will bring a refined and durable build, modern design, upgraded main and zoom camera, bright vibrant display, in-built S Pen support, software longevity, and a lot more.
Here’s everything that your Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra lacks (over S25 Ultra):
Modern, Durable Build
Samsung’s S25 Ultra features a Titanium frame with stunning colorways. The new metal is lightweight and durable over Aluminium.
The upcoming device would feel softer in hand, thanks to its refined design that features a flat frame on the front and a curved one on the back.
S21 Ultra was the last Ultra flagship with a rounded frame design. The S25 Ultra is set to replace a similar design, that differs from the S22U, S23U, and S24U.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra CAD Render (Credits: Androidheadline/Onleaks)
200MP Camera
Galaxy S25 Ultra comes with a 200-megapixel primary camera, an upgrade from the 108MP sensor used in the Galaxy S21 Ultra.
Apart from high resolution, the sensor brings intelligent pixel-binning technology. You can capture shots at 12MP, 50MP and 200MP.
The new sensor also unlocks an even more enhanced photography experience as well as upgraded nightography features for the low-light camera.
ISOCELL HP2, 200-megapixel image sensor | Image: Samsung
Upgraded Periscope
With the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Samsung replaced the conventional 10MP 10x optical zoom sensor with a new solution featuring 50MP resolution and 5x optical zoom.
Samsung will be replicating the S24 Ultra’s zoom camera configuration on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, installing a 10MP 3x Telephoto and 50MP 5x Periscope.
Well, there will be a brand new ultrawide sensor, up from the legacy 12MP to a new 50MP solution, which will offer even more enhanced photography.
Credit: Samsung
Bright, Vibrant Flat Screen
The S21 Ultra display features 1500nits peak brightness, which is 25% higher than the S20 Ultra, while the S25 Ultra is expected to come at over 2600nits brightness.
Galaxy S25 Ultra is a noteworthy upgrade in terms of display. The application of anti-reflective glass takes the screen’s experience to a whole new level.
Samsung is expected to use M13+ OLED in the Galaxy S25 Ultra. It will offer grain-less vibrant colors, enhanced efficiency, and smoother functioning.
Image: Samsung / YouTube
In-built S-Pen
Galaxy S21 Ultra was the first non-Note phone that supported S Pen input. Samsung later expanded the S Pen feature to newer Galaxy S Ultra and Z Fold models.
In the S21 Ultra, S Pen is supported on screen, but there’s no slot. It isn’t the same case with the Galaxy S22 Ultra, S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra.
S22 Ultra and later models come with in-built S Pen functionality, bringing a dedicated compartment for the stylus within the middle frame.
Credit – Samsung
Super Fast Charging
Fast charging has become a requirement on smartphones. Samsung’s S21 Ultra supports max 25W charging, which is disappointing for a phone cost over $1200.
The upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra supports 45W Super Fast Charging which significantly reduces the time to recharge the 5000mAh battery cell.
Not that all, the battery will last longer than the S21 Ultra despite having the same 5000mAh capacity with modern hardware and optimized software.
Software Longevity
Samsung raised the bar of software updates to at least seven years on flagships. The Galaxy S24 series debuted with the new software policy.
The Galaxy Z Flip6 and Z Fold6 also joined the longest software support group, which is all set to welcome three models of the S25 series this January.
Seven years of software updates will keep your phone like new and secure. New features will help you keep your Galaxy for an even longer period.
Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S25 Ultra on January 22; check out the latest insights here.
Samsung officially dropped the first look at the Galaxy XR. At the same time, Google debuted the Android XR operating system that will power the upcoming XR devices from Samsung such as headset, smart glasses, and more.
Codenamed Project Moohan (infinity in Korea) is set to be released in 2025. Samsung Galaxy XR runs Android XR and includes virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR) as well as other similar technologies yet to be developed.
From the Galaxy ecosystem and Google’s suite of apps to partnerships with third-party developers, every XR interaction will be incredibly enriched. – Samsung.
Galaxy XR – Project Moohan | Credits: Samsung
Samsung says eXtended reality (XR) transforms how we engage with the world around us. The company reiterated that it’s working with Qualcomm and Google to elevate the XR segment to deliver exceptional experiences to consumers.
Galaxy XR unites forward-thinking ideas with industry-leading expertise. The device will offer a robust and scalable platform that offers a wide range of content. It will also be equipped with Galaxy AI to level up experiences further.
Android XR
Following Samsung’s Galaxy XR unveil, Google announced the launch of Android XR. The company says the development of the Android XR platform is underway in close cooperation with Samsung and Qualcomm.
Google says Android XR is built for the next generation of computing, which combines years of investment in AI, AR, and VR. The new operating system will power future headsets and glasses from Samsung, starting in 2025.
Android XR | Credits: Google
Developers can now start building apps and games for upcoming Android XR devices. Google also confirmed to soon kick off real-world testing of prototype glasses running Android XR with a small group of users. Here are the key features:
Users can fill their space with apps and content, enhanced by Gemini, an AI assistant:
- Gemini enables conversations about what you’re seeing or device control.
- It understands intent to assist with planning, research, and tasks.
Android XR Interface | Credits: Google
Reimagined Google apps for headsets include:
- YouTube and Google TV for a virtual big-screen experience.
- Google Photos in 3D for reliving cherished memories.
- Google Maps with Immersive View to explore cities and landmarks.
- Chrome with multiple virtual screens for seamless multitasking.
- Circle to Search for quick information retrieval via gestures.
Android compatibility ensures mobile and tablet apps from Google Play work immediately. More apps, games, and immersive XR content are arriving next year.