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  • Apple Watch is now able to identify sleep apnea, although there is one caveat.

    Apple Watch is now able to identify sleep apnea, although there is one caveat.

    Apple released the latest watchOS 11 on Sunday (16) after conducting extensive beta testing. Among the key features is the sleep apnea detection available for Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in over 150 countries and regions, according to Apple. However, there is unfortunate news for people in Brazil.

    Apple Watch now has a feature for identifying sleep apnea.

    The countries on the list include the USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and more, as listed on the Apple website. Australia and Canada, among others, do not yet have access to this feature as Apple is waiting for regulatory approval in some regions. Unfortunately, Brazil is not included in the list and will not have access to this functionality. The Apple Watch uses its accelerometer to monitor wrist movements during sleep to detect potential sleep apnea, a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and restarts. Users can view their “Night Respiratory Breaks” in the Health app on their iPhone, with interruptions classified as “high” or “not high.”

    Apple developed a function using advanced machine learning and a large amount of sleep apnea data from clinical tests. The function is designed to identify signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea in individuals aged 18 and above who have not been diagnosed with the condition. Recently, Apple obtained FDA approval for this feature in the US and published a document detailing the technology’s development and validation. The latest Apple Watch Series 10 was launched this month, following the release of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 last year.

  • WhatsApp is testing a new button for users who enjoy sharing Status updates.

    WhatsApp is testing a new button for users who enjoy sharing Status updates.

    A recent WhatsApp test update was released via the Google Play Beta Program. The latest version, 2.24.20.9, introduces a feature that could benefit users who enjoy customizing their contacts’ statuses in the app. This new feature is currently being tested and may be included in upcoming updates of the messaging platform.

    WhatsApp now enables users to reference a status in their chats.

    The beta version 2.24.20.3 of WhatsApp introduced the feature to mention contacts in status updates, enabling users to directly involve specific contacts in their updates through notifications.

    WhatsApp now offers the option to redirect status updates in version 2.24.20.9, which can be accessed through the Google Play Beta Program on the Google Play Store.

    Novo recurso permite reenvio de status do WhatsApp
    Imagem: driles/FreePik

    WhatsApp is looking into introducing a new button for resending status updates where users are mentioned in a future update. The current button, available to some beta testers, is a simple icon next to the caption bar, which might not be clear to all users. The upcoming redesigned button will be larger, feature both an icon and text, and be placed above the caption bar to make its function more apparent to users.

  • Google app needs to acquire a compass in order to locate objects efficiently.

    Google app needs to acquire a compass in order to locate objects efficiently.

    Google’s ‘Find My Device’ feature has room for improvement, with anticipated updates including support for UWB trackers and a new “compass” option.

    The newest release of ‘Find My Device’ includes updates.

    Files from the most recent version of the ‘Find My Device’ app have been examined by 9to5Google, revealing potential upcoming features in the code. However, it is uncertain whether Google will actually introduce these features, so their release cannot be confirmed.

    Google introduced a new “compass” feature in the most recent update of the “Find My Device” app for Android v3.1.148. The app will provide directions to help users locate their devices with prompts like “Turn left,” “Turn right,” and “The device is behind you.”

    Reprodução: YouTube
    Imagem: Peggychoucair/FreeImages

    If you expect this feature to be utilized in conjunction with UWB trackers, it should be integrated with the augmented reality feature that was under development a few months back. The following code snippets demonstrate the incorporation of a compass into the app.

    • The device is positioned at your back.
    • Use the compass to locate the device.
    • Go left
    • Turn to the right

    This might be an enhancement to the current tracker location feature, with the potential to provide a more advanced experience for trackers utilizing UWB technology.

  • Xiaomi surpasses Apple and is now the second biggest in the global smartphone industry.

    Xiaomi surpasses Apple and is now the second biggest in the global smartphone industry.

    In August 2024, Xiaomi rose to second place in worldwide smartphone sales, overtaking Apple for the first time since August 2021. Xiaomi maintained steady sales, while Apple experienced a decline during the same period, according to Counterpoint Research Smartphone 360 Monthly Tracker.

    Xiaomi surpasses Apple in sales in August.

    In August, the company exceeded market expectations by offsetting seasonal declines in its primary markets with growth fueled by promotions in Latin America. Xiaomi, along with other industry players, encountered significant challenges in 2023 following supply issues in 2022.

    Market-share de 2021 a 2024 no mercado global de smartphones. Imagem: Counterpoint/Reprodução
    Imagem: Peggychoucair/UnPlash

    Xiaomi made adjustments to its product strategy, sales, and channels after facing challenges in 2022 and the first half of 2023. As a result, the company has seen significant growth in the past year.

    This year, Xiaomi streamlined its product lineup by focusing on one main model per price range instead of releasing multiple devices in the same category. The company also expanded its sales and marketing efforts, entering new markets and strengthening its position in existing ones. Xiaomi’s performance is strong in the lower price ranges, particularly below $200, following the launch of the Redmi 13 and Note 13 series, which offer affordable 5G devices. Additionally, Xiaomi is making progress in the premium segment with foldable smartphones and ‘ultra’ devices. Many of Xiaomi’s key markets have seen economic improvement recently, leading to increased demand for devices in the lower price segments.

    Xiaomi’s models gained widespread popularity, helping the company increase its market share significantly in important regions like India, Latin America, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. In Brazil, Motorola surpasses Apple, with Xiaomi holding the fourth position in the country.

    Apple has the potential to reclaim the top position.

    Xiaomi’s rise to the second position in the market is attributed to its recent rapid growth and Apple’s seasonal decline in August. The upcoming launch of the iPhone 16 is expected to boost Apple’s sales and potentially help it reclaim the top spot. Xiaomi’s success highlights the increasing competition in the smartphone market driven by advancements in technology and pricing strategies. Factors like foldable smartphones and AI capabilities are enabling brands to stand out, emphasizing the importance of device ecosystem, product design, marketing, and research strategies demonstrated by Xiaomi’s recent growth.

    Source text

  • None of the iPhone 16 models have a battery capacity exceeding 5,000 mAh; consider the alterations made.

    None of the iPhone 16 models have a battery capacity exceeding 5,000 mAh; consider the alterations made.

    Apple released the latest iPhone 16 series without disclosing the battery capacity, but this information is now accessible through an analysis on the Anatel website by The iPhone Blog.

    The iPhone 16 features a slightly larger battery capacity.

    No iPhone 16 model has a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh, despite this feature being common in various Android smartphones. Apple has not shown interest in incorporating this technology, as reported by the iPhone Blog.

    The iPhone 16 Pro Max has the largest capacity among the four models in the iPhone 16 lineup, as anticipated.

    Model Capacity (mAh) Rated voltage (V)
    iPhone 16 Pro 3.582 mAh 3,892 V
    iPhone 16 Pro Max 4.685 mAh 3,878 V
    iPhone 16 3.561 mAh 3,886 V
    iPhone 16 Plus 4.674 mAh 3,875 V

    The numbers above indicate minimal progress from the previous generation. For instance, the iPhone 16 features a 3,582 mAh battery, while the iPhone 15 had a 3,349 mAh battery, demonstrating a subtle difference. View the comparison of each model below:

    Model Battery Capacity of iPhone 15 (mAh) Battery Capacity of iPhone 16 (mAh) Deviation (%)
    iPhone 15 349 mAh 3.561 mAh +6,34%
    iPhone 15 Plus 4.383 mAh 4.674 mAh +6,64%
    iPhone 15 Pro 3.274 mAh 3.582 mAh +9.40%
    iPhone 15 Pro Max 4.422 mAh 4.685 mAh 95%

    Apple’s Pro models have a slight capacity difference but provide extended battery life due to the new hardware’s efficiency in balancing energy consumption during activities like video watching or music listening.

    Source: iPhone Blog

  • Google has confirmed that Android 15 will be released in October.

    Google has confirmed that Android 15 will be released in October.

    Google is getting ready to launch Android 15, its latest operating system version, for Pixel devices on October 15th, with the possibility of changes if significant issues are found before the release date.

    Android 15 is set to be launched in October.

    The Android 15 code has been submitted to the Android Open Source Project, but Pixel device users have not received the update yet. The October release is intended to provide a more stable version without major issues, as the delay indicates extra testing and final adjustments are being carried out.

    Pixel 6 and newer models, including the recently announced Pixel 9, will receive the Android 15 update on October 15. This is a departure from Google’s usual practice of launching new models with the latest Android version, as the Pixel 9 came with Android 14 pre-installed.

    What can be anticipated from Android 15?

    Google hasn’t provided a full breakdown of all the new features in Android 15, but there are expectations that this version will deliver enhanced performance, security, and new features to enhance user experience. The delayed release in comparison to the AOSP code suggests that the update will be more refined, reducing potential issues that could impact devices.

    Users of Samsung, Xiaomi, and Motorola devices will receive Android 15 after it is released for Pixels, as these companies customize the system for their devices.

    Which smartphones are eligible to get Android 15?

    Several phone companies have announced the devices that will get the next significant Android update when it becomes available. For instance, Samsung stated that the Galaxy S24 will get system updates for up to 7 years, supporting Android 21, expected to launch in 2031.

    Motorola and Xiaomi need to provide updates for their recent models, such as the Moto G84, G54, G34, G24, G14, and the Edge 40 series, along with various Xiaomi models like POCO X6, POCO F5, Redmi Note 12 and 13, and the Xiaomi 14 series.

    ASUS, realme, Infinix, and other companies need to reveal a schedule for updating their smartphones to Android 15. Check our article for the full list of devices eligible for the update.

    • Which ASUS smartphones are eligible for the Android 15 update?
    • Which realme phones will get Android 15 update?
    • Which Xiaomi devices are eligible for Android 15 update?
    • Which Motorola smartphones will get Android 15 updates?
    • Android 15: Which Samsung smartphones will get updates?

  • iMessage crashes on iPhones running iOS 18. Learn how to address this issue.

    iMessage crashes on iPhones running iOS 18. Learn how to address this issue.

    iOS 18, released last Monday, has been causing issues for Apple users due to a critical bug found in the iMessage app. This bug can crash the device and lead to data loss in a particular scenario.

    A critical issue in iMessage is creating a problem on iOS 18.

    When an individual shares an Apple Watch watch face during an iMessage chat, it initiates a sequence of events. For users on iOS 18, it is crucial not to reply when they receive a message containing this watch face.

    If the message is replied to, the iMessage application will crash each time the user attempts to access that chat. The crashes may happen so often that it becomes challenging to engage in other conversations. iMessage is also unreliable on beta editions of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS 15.1.

    The bug impacts both the sender and the recipient of the message, showing similar symptoms for both parties.

    Divulgação: Apple
    Imagem: JonPauling/Pexels

    Resolving the iMessage bug on iOS 18.

    The sole option available then is for both users to erase the phone conversation, which will also remove all message history and any attachments like photos and videos not saved elsewhere in iMessage.

    If the conversation is deleted by the user and then attempted to be recovered from the deleted items section, the bug will resurface, rendering this approach ineffective. It is anticipated that Apple will tackle this issue in the upcoming iOS 18 update (likely to be named iOS 18.0.1), which is eagerly awaited. Apple is expected to provide a fix for this issue on iOS, macOS, and watchOS platforms soon. Users are advised to refrain from responding to messages on threads if someone shares an Apple Watch watch face until an update is rolled out.

  • Galaxy Ring will be available in two additional sizes.

    Galaxy Ring will be available in two additional sizes.

    Samsung recently introduced the Samsung Galaxy Ring, a cutting-edge device designed to broaden the company’s reach in the health and wellness technology market. The gadget boasts an elegant design and state-of-the-art health monitoring capabilities, positioning it as a strong contender against smartwatches and fitness trackers. Additionally, two new sizes of the device will soon be available in the USA.

    Galaxy Ring will be available in sizes 14 and 15.

    The Galaxy Ring is crafted to be inconspicuous and stylish, providing a discreet and elegant option compared to bulkier smart watches. It is perfect for individuals who favor a more subtle yet effective device.

    The ring is currently offered in nine U.S. standard sizes, but there are rumors that Samsung will introduce sizes 14 and 15 soon to cater to a wider audience. This range of sizes allows the Galaxy Ring to fit various finger sizes effectively while maintaining sensor accuracy.

    Samsung has not made an official statement regarding this new development, so it is unclear whether the new sizes will be available worldwide or exclusively in the United States.

    Colors of the Galaxy Ring

    The Galaxy Ring is made with high-quality materials and comes in three color choices: Black Titanium, Gold Titanium, and Silver Titanium. These color options enhance the elegant appearance of the ring while also ensuring durability and strength, essential qualities for a device used regularly.

    The utilization of titanium enhances the product’s strength, ensuring the ring withstands daily wear and tear while remaining comfortably lightweight. Moreover, the titanium coating gives the Galaxy Ring a sleek, contemporary appearance, making it a compelling device.

    Divulgação: Samsung
    Imagem: JonPauling/FreePik

    The Galaxy Ring can be pre-ordered in Brazil for R$3,499 with a R$500 discount until October 18, when it will be officially available.

  • Can reducing cell phone charging by 80% increase battery lifespan?

    Can reducing cell phone charging by 80% increase battery lifespan?

    Cell phones have become essential to daily activities and users are increasingly concerned about battery life. Manufacturers are introducing new features like adaptive charging to extend battery life. Android 15 now offers the option to limit battery charge to 80%, but its impact on extending service life is uncertain.

    Why does a cell phone battery degrade over time?

    Two primary elements that contribute to the deterioration of lithium-ion batteries in most mobile devices are heat and voltage. Heat can be produced by external factors, such as exposure to sunlight, as well as by using the device while it is charging. On the other hand, high voltage, especially when the battery reaches full charge, speeds up the deterioration of the battery. As the battery nears its maximum capacity, the internal voltage rises, leading to increased stress on the chemical components, causing material wear and reducing the overall battery capacity over time. Consequently, frequent charging of the mobile device up to full capacity can accelerate this degradation process.

    Does it work to limit the cell phone’s charging to 80%?

    Limiting the load to 80% helps maintain lower internal voltage levels in the battery, reducing stress on chemical components. This approach lessens heat generation during charging and delays battery wear, potentially extending battery life without greatly affecting daily device usage. The impact of this practice on longevity may vary among users based on charging habits and frequency.

    Reprodução: Pixabay
    Imagem: timmossholder/UnPlash

    In which cases should I restrict the shipment to 80%?

    • Charging your smartphone multiple times a day can cause unnecessary wear, so limiting the charge to 80% can help reduce this.
    • Using heavy applications or playing games frequently can cause the battery to degrade quicker if it is frequently charged to 100%.
    • Older batteries deteriorate more quickly over time, and reducing the load can help to delay this deterioration.

    How can you enhance the longevity of your mobile phone’s battery?

    Other steps can also assist in maintaining the battery’s health aside from restricting the load.

    • Extreme temperatures should be avoided as they can harm the battery. It is recommended to use original chargers to maintain the battery and device life.
    • Maintain the software current: software updates often include enhancements in power management, which can enhance battery efficiency.

  • YouTube needs to have a clear status bar on Android.

    YouTube needs to have a clear status bar on Android.

    YouTube is introducing a new feature for Android users that will enhance their user experience beyond just changing the appearance. The update will include a transparent status bar, replacing the previous solid one that appeared when scrolling through Home feeds and applications.

    YouTube’s new see-through status bar.

    The status bar on YouTube for Android used to be solid, making it opaque while scrolling through the Home and Subscription feeds, thus visually separating the content from system icons like the clock, notifications, and battery status.

    This method, while practical, resulted in a minor gap between the interface components, particularly when contrasted with other parts of the application like the ambient mode of the video player, which already offered a more engaging and seamless look.

    The new update makes the status bar transparent, enabling video thumbnails to show beneath the bar icons. This creates visual continuity, enhancing the interface’s cohesion and fluidity for a more immersive experience with videos having more visual presence without a solid bar interruption.

    Reprodução: Pixabay
    Imagem: stephmcblack/Flickr

    Several devices have already acquired new features.

    The new see-through status bar started appearing on various devices starting with YouTube version 19.37.35 for Android. However, not all users have access to it yet as the rollout is happening slowly, and some may not see the change right away based on their Android version and device.

    While the update may not be available to everyone yet, it is expected that more individuals will begin noticing this change on their devices in the upcoming weeks. This gradual release strategy is commonly used for updates of major applications to enable the company to assess new features with a limited user group before a full rollout.