Latest news with #BetaTesting
Geeky Gadgets
5 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 18.6 Beta 1 Released: Everything You Need to Know
Apple has officially released iOS 18.6 Beta 1, offering users a preview of the latest updates to its mobile operating system. This beta version emphasizes performance improvements, bug fixes, and enhanced security measures, while maintaining compatibility across a wide range of devices. Below is a detailed look at the key updates and their potential impact in a new video from Zollotech. Watch this video on YouTube. Performance Enhancements for a Smoother Experience With iOS 18.6 Beta 1, Apple continues its focus on optimizing performance to deliver a faster and more seamless experience. Whether you're multitasking, launching apps, or navigating the interface, the improvements aim to make your device feel more responsive and efficient. Key performance upgrades include: Faster app load times, even for resource-intensive applications. Improved stability during demanding tasks like gaming or video editing. Optimized resource allocation to ensure smoother operation on older devices. These enhancements are designed to benefit both newer and older devices, making sure that users experience consistent performance regardless of their device's age or workload. By addressing latency and responsiveness, Apple aims to make everyday interactions with your device more fluid and enjoyable. Bug Fixes for Improved Reliability iOS 18.6 Beta 1 addresses a variety of user-reported issues, focusing on improving system reliability and resolving disruptive bugs. These fixes are critical for maintaining a dependable operating system, especially for users who rely on their devices for work or other essential tasks. Examples of resolved issues include: Fixes for app crashes that previously interrupted workflows. Corrections for unresponsive system features and inconsistent behavior. Improvements to overall system stability during daily use. By resolving these issues, Apple aims to enhance the user experience, making sure that the operating system functions smoothly and predictably. These updates are particularly valuable for users who depend on their devices for productivity and entertainment. Strengthened Security and Privacy Features Security and privacy remain central to Apple's development priorities, and iOS 18.6 Beta 1 introduces updates aimed at protecting user data and devices. Although Apple has not disclosed all the details, the enhancements align with its ongoing commitment to user trust and data protection. Potential security updates include: More detailed controls over app permissions and data sharing. Enhanced safeguards against malware and unauthorized access. Greater transparency regarding how personal information is used. These updates are particularly relevant in today's digital landscape, where protecting sensitive information is more critical than ever. By strengthening security measures, Apple continues to position itself as a leader in privacy-focused technology. Device Compatibility and Beta Considerations iOS 18.6 Beta 1 is designed to be compatible with a broad range of Apple devices, making sure accessibility for both newer and older models. If your device supports iOS 18, you are likely eligible to install and test the beta version. Important considerations for beta users include: Beta software is still under development and may contain minor bugs or issues. If you rely on your device for critical tasks, it may be wise to wait for the final release. Installing the beta provides early access to new features but may require troubleshooting. Participating in the beta program allows Apple to gather valuable feedback from users, which helps refine the system before the official release. This collaborative approach ensures a more polished and stable final product for all users. What This Means for You iOS 18.6 Beta 1 showcases Apple's dedication to improving its operating system through performance optimizations, bug fixes, and enhanced security measures. These updates are designed to address user concerns while introducing meaningful improvements that enhance the overall experience. If you're eager to explore the latest features and don't mind testing pre-release software, the beta version is available now. However, for those who prioritize stability and reliability, waiting for the final release may be the better option. Either way, iOS 18.6 Beta 1 sets the stage for a more efficient, secure, and user-friendly operating system. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on iOS 18.6 Beta 1 that you might find useful. Source & Image Credit: zollotech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Android Authority
28-05-2025
- Business
- Android Authority
Breaking: One UI 8 beta starts rolling out for the Galaxy S25 series
Joe Maring / Android Authority TL;DR Samsung has begun rolling out the first One UI 8 beta, starting with the Galaxy S25 series. The first beta is available in its home region of South Korea. One UI 8 is on its way to your Galaxy phone, as Samsung has begun the One UI 8 beta testing program for the Galaxy S25 series, starting with its home region of South Korea. As spotted by Tarun Vats, Samsung has started rolling out the first Android 16-based One UI 8 beta build for the Galaxy S25 series. The build, which is 3.38 GB in size and has version numbers S938NKSU3ZYER / S938NOKR3ZYER / S938NKSU3BYER depending on the region. The first rollout market for the beta is South Korea. This is a developing story. Please check back in some time for more details. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Android Authority
24-05-2025
- Android Authority
My 7 favorite wallpapers I made with Android 16's Magic Portrait
Joe Maring / Android Authority I've been playing with Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 since it released a few days ago, and so far, I have very few complaints. I love the Material 3 Expressive redesign, the updated quick settings are great, and I'm a big fan of the new look for notifications. But more than any of that, I've been having endless amounts of fun with the Magic Portrait feature. Magic Portrait was a bit of a surprise in the newest Android 16 beta, and it's quickly proving to be one of the best things about it. When you apply a new home screen/lock screen wallpaper, Magic Portrait gives you a handful of new ways to customize it — such as framing it with a fun shape, adding a weather effect, or enabling 3D motion for a cinematic look. I wasn't sure what to think of Magic Portrait when I first read about it, but having now used it for a while, I can't get enough. Here are a few of my favorite wallpapers I've made with Magic Portrait so far. What do you think about Android 16's Magic Portrait feature? 0 votes It looks great! NaN % It's interesting, but it needs more options. NaN % I'm not a fan. NaN % Other (let us know in the comments). NaN % My favorite Magic Portrait wallpapers Joe Maring / Android Authority Magic Portrait has three main effects you can use: shape, weather, and cinematic. You can only use one per wallpaper, and each one works a little better depending on the type of photo you're working with. Shape is the effect I've had the most fun with, as it's especially great for photos where there's a clear subject, such as a person or a pet. This first wallpaper of my cat, Minnie, is a great example. I chose the clover shape for the frame around her with an orange color that has the brightness/saturation slider cranked all the way to the right. I love the way her head is poking out from the frame, and I think the color I chose compliments her nicely, too. Next, to give some love to my sweet boy Damon, I picked a photo of him with an octopus plushie on his head (he really is the best). I wish Magic Portrait had included more of his snout, but overall, it did a great job of cutting out both his face and the entire plushie. Paired with a bright pink color and the six-sided squircle, the end result is almost too adorable. One more shape wallpaper before moving on to something else. This effect also works great with people, as the picture of my partner and me at a recent anniversary dinner shows. The oval shape is the best choice here (it keeps us in the frame while hiding a glass on the table), and I really like the blue color I settled on. That's enough of the shape option. What about the weather one? As expected, this effect works best with outdoor photos, and depending on the image, it can look pretty damn good. With this picture I took of the Eiffel Tower around sunset, the sun effect (turned up as high as it goes) looks incredible. The weather effects slowly fade out once you unlock your phone or keep your lock screen on for a while. So, rather than overpowering your photo, they simply add a nice temporary flair. Next, I found a picture of our friendly neighborhood squirrel who was visiting our bird feeders this past winter to fatten himself up for the season. The snow effect felt appropriate for this picture, and I adore how this one turned out. In addition to the falling snow, there's also a small collection of flakes piling up on the squirrel's fur. It's far too cute. What about the cinematic effect? Admittedly, this is the one I've been the least impressed with, as the 3D effect it adds is either so unnoticeable or distorts your picture in really bizarre ways. But it's not always bad! I added it to this close-up shot of Damon, which works pretty well. The photo also moves a bit as you move your phone around. It's not my favorite effect of the bunch, but it can still be a fun one. Joe Maring / Android Authority Lastly, I want to go back to the weather effect to close us out. While Magic Portrait works best with original photos, there is one wallpaper from Backdrops that's perfect for the weather effect: this one of the iconic Google Weather frog. You can have the weather effect follow your local weather, so if it's sunny, rainy, foggy, etc., where you live, you'll see that translated on your phone. It's a great way to get more of everyone's favorite amphibious meteorologist, and if you have Backdrops, just search for 'Weather Frog' to find this one. How to use Magic Portrait in Android 16 Andy Walker / Android Authority Interested in using Magic Portrait for yourself? First, you need to have a Pixel 6 or later Pixel model. Next, you have to download the Android 16 QPR1 Beta. The beta has proven fairly stable in my experience so far, so if your Pixel is your only phone, you're probably OK to use it. However, there's always some risk involved with any piece of beta software, so your mileage may vary. If you do have a supported Pixel and end up downloading the Android 16 QPR1 Beta, here's how to access Magic Portrait: Press and hold on any blank spot of your home screen. Tap Wallpaper & style. Tap More wallpapers. Tap Choose a photo. Select the photo you want to use as your wallpaper. Tap Effects. From here, you can play with the shape, weather, and cinematic modes discussed above. Once you're happy with your creation, tap the checkmark icon in the upper right corner, tap Next, take one last look at your setup, and then tap Apply. That's it! Magic Portrait doesn't always work perfectly, but even so, it's proven to be a lovely new addition to Android. If you're rocking the Android 16 QPR1 Beta (or plan to get it soon), be sure to give Magic Portrait a look.
Phone Arena
09-05-2025
- Phone Arena
Google Messages just got a new feature you wish existed yesterday
Google Messages is finally testing a "Delete for everyone" button, giving Android users a 15-minute window to unsend an RCS text that should not have left the phone in the first place. Early reports come from the latest beta version, where a long press on a message now shows two options: "Delete for everyone" or "Delete for me." When the first choice is used, the chat replaces the text with a small Message deleted label that every participant can now, the feature appears only in large group conversations. One tester had success in a thread with twelve people, while the option stayed hidden in smaller groups and in one to one chats. This feature was first uncovered back in March, so it's nice to see it finally rolling out, even if it's in beta. It should be noted that the recall depends on RCS Universal Profile 2.7, so every person in the chat needs an up-to-date build of Google Messages, or the delete request quietly fails. Additionally, it looks like Google is currently flipping the switch on its servers for a tiny slice of beta users to make sure the system holds up before opening the gates any wider. The 'Delete for everyone' option appearing on a beta build of Google Messages. | Image credit — r/seeareeff on Reddit That narrow rollout is not a surprise. Competing apps have offered this safety net for years, and each one draws its own line in the sand. WhatsApp lets you pull a message back for a generous two days. iMessage gives you two minutes to undo and fifteen minutes to edit. Telegram goes further and lets users erase texts at any time without leaving a trace. Seen against that lineup, Google's 15-minute limit is modest but still patches the biggest gap in its flagship chat timing is rather important, considering Apple plans to also move to the same RCS profile that supports these extra features later this year. At the same time, Google has been busy polishing quality of life tools inside Messages, including reaction effects, AI reply suggestions, and a long overdue edit button that took four months to travel from beta to stable last year. If the company follows the same pace, delete for everyone could reach most phones by the end of 2025. I believe this is an important move when you take into consideration the timing alongside Apple's rollout. If Google widens support before the stable release, Android owners will gain the same peace of mind that WhatsApp and iPhone users already enjoy while keeping their conversations tidy.
Android Authority
09-05-2025
- Android Authority
Google Messages begins rolling out "Delete for Everyone" feature
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority TL;DR Google Messages seems to have started rolling out the 'Delete for Everyone' option in group chats for beta users. The feature allows users to delete messages sent to everyone in the group. It's unclear if the feature is also headed to individual chats on Google Messages. Google appears to be rolling out its long-awaited 'Delete for Everyone' feature in Google Messages, allowing beta users to remove RCS (Rich Communication Services) chats from group conversations. This suggests a wider release for the feature could be right around the corner. This feature, previously uncovered in our APK teardown of Google Messages version 20250131_02_RC00, aligns with the RCS Universal Profile v2.7 announced in June 2024. We previously found strings referencing two new deletion options: 'Delete for everyone,' which removes the message for all participants in a conversation, and 'Delete for me,' which only deletes the message from the user's device. Now, a Reddit user in the public beta has confirmed that these options are live for at least one of their large RCS group chats. 'I have only found one group where it works… It's a big group of 12 people,' the user noted. 'But none of my other RCS groups allow me to do it… and I have yet to find a 1:1 convo that allows me yet,' they said. Reddit/seeareef This beta rollout for the 'Delete for Everyone' suggests that Google is perhaps testing the waters, enabling the feature selectively across group sizes or user types. Although 1:1 conversations do not yet appear to support message deletion for both parties, the existence of the option is a strong signal that full support may be on the horizon. In our teardown, we had also discovered that Google Messages seems to notify recipients when a sender deletes or attempts to delete a message. It's unclear right now if this is how the feature functions. This additional transparency may be helpful or controversial, depending on how users feel about their privacy. While Google has not officially announced when the feature will be widely available, it looks like we won't have to wait long.
