Latest news with #OneUI
Android Authority
2 days ago
- Android Authority
Galaxy Watch 4's dreaded red screen of death may be getting worse
TL;DR Samsung's aging Galaxy Watch 4 is vulnerable to a display failure where the screen turns solid red. The only solution for affected hardware seems to be a screen replacement. While failures have been happening for years, it's hard to ignore a recent surge in reports. It's sure looking like we could only be just a few more weeks away from getting our formal introduction to Samsung's next-gen smartwatches, the Galaxy Watch 8 series. And while we're excited to check out the new design this year, we're also happy to see Samsung keeping up its support for its older wearables, preparing its One UI 8 Watch update for them now. Inevitably, though, the very oldest will one day be left behind, and it's looking like we're getting to that point for the Galaxy Watch 4. And maybe that's why the recent string of device failures we've been hearing about feels all the more frustrating. Electronics break, and with mobile devices especially, the threats can be nearly constant — it's a small miracle that we're not constantly smashing smartwatches on doorknobs. And when it comes to Samsung's Galaxy Watch 4, one failure mode we've known about seems to manifest as an orange/red screen that's otherwise non-responsive. Users have been running into this occasionally for years, as we see in this 2023 Reddit post from rrrocky777, or this 2024 post from SoaibMostafa on Samsung's own support forums. None of that's great, but sporadic failures are one thing. Now, this is hardly a proper statistical analysis of these incidents, but in our recent efforts looking through posts in Reddit's Galaxy Watch sub, we've noticed what feels like a pronounced uptick in reports of this specific failure mode. Just this past week alone, we see posts from users Current_Context_9513, Chckn_Nugget, and cokeplantcp all complaining about the same 'red screen of death.' With that latter report we get a little extra insight into how the failure may be manifesting on affected watches, initially appearing as an overwhelming red tint but still showing the watch face, before fading into nothingness over the course of about 20 minutes — you can see the pics they shared up top. At this point in 2025, you're pretty much guaranteed to have a Galaxy Watch 4 that's out of warranty, and if this happens to you, your only recourse may be paying Samsung for a screen replacement. That said, the Watch 4 has had a good run, and upsetting as it may be to see a beloved wearable give up the ghost, perhaps it's high time for an upgrade? 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.
Fox News
3 days ago
- Fox News
Android security upgrades outsmart scams and protect your privacy
With the increasing sophistication of digital threats, safeguarding your phone and personal data has never been more crucial. Android is responding with a suite of new security features designed to protect you from scams, fraud, and device theft. These enhancements are primarily rolling out to devices running Android 16. Some protections, such as enhanced theft protection and AI-powered scam detection, are also becoming available on select devices running Android 10 and later via Google Play Services updates. The most advanced features, including Identity Check and device-level Advanced Protection, are initially launching on Google Pixel and Samsung devices with One UI 7, with plans to expand to other manufacturers as they update to Android 16. Let's take a look at how these innovations are making Android security smarter and more comprehensive. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join. Phone scammers are becoming increasingly creative, often attempting to trick people into changing device security settings or granting risky permissions during calls. Android's new in-call protections add a layer of defense by blocking certain actions during calls with non-contacts. For example, you won't be able to disable Google Play Protect, sideload an app for the first time, or grant accessibility permissions while on a call with someone not in your contacts. If you're screen-sharing during a call, Android will prompt you to stop sharing when the call ends. Android's AI-powered Scam Detection in Google Messages and Phone by Google is now even more intelligent. It can identify suspicious conversation patterns in real-time and warn you before you fall victim to a scam. This protection covers a wide range of scams, including toll road and billing fee scams, cryptocurrency scams, financial impersonation scams, gift card and prize scams, tech support scams, and more. All message analysis happens on your device, so your conversations stay private. Availability can vary depending on your device, region, and carrier. If you don't see these features yet, make sure your app is updated and keep an eye out as Google continues to expand support to more users worldwide. To help protect you from scammers who try to impersonate someone you know, Android is rolling out Key Verifier in Google Messages. This feature lets you and your contact verify each other's identity using public encryption keys, either by scanning a QR code or comparing numbers. If a contact's verification status changes, like after a SIM swap, you'll see a warning, giving you extra confidence that you're talking to the right person. If you've ever used Android's Find My Device to track down a lost phone or set of keys, you know how helpful it can be. Now, Find My Device is evolving into Find Hub, making it easier to keep track of your devices, family, and friends all in one place, with more partner brands joining the network. Find Hub is also becoming more personalized. Whether you want built-in luggage tracking from July and Mokobara, ski protection with Peak integration, or Disney-themed Bluetooth tags from Pixbee, there are options to suit different needs. Soon, tags that are enabled with ultra-wideband, starting with moto tag, will provide improved nearby location tracking. Later this year, Find Hub will include satellite connectivity, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family even when cellular service is unavailable. For travelers, new partnerships with airlines such as Aer Lingus, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Iberia, and Singapore Airlines will let you share your Bluetooth tag's location directly with these airlines. This should make recovering lost luggage easier and less stressful. Android continues to strengthen its theft protection features. The new Identity Check adds an extra layer of security if your PIN or password is compromised, and it's rolling out to more devices with Android 16. Factory Reset Protection is getting tougher, restricting all functionalities on devices reset without the owner's authorization. Remote Lock now includes a security challenge question to prevent unauthorized use, and one-time passwords will be hidden on the lock screen in higher-risk scenarios. For those who want even stronger security, Advanced Protection is now available as a device-level setting in Android 16. This combines Google's most robust security tools, like intrusion logging and scam call detection, into one setting that can't be turned off without unenrolling. Whether you're a journalist, a public figure, or just want extra peace of mind, Android 16 makes it easy to activate Advanced Protection. This suite of features brings together Google's top security tools, like Intrusion Logging, USB protection, and scam detection for calls, into one powerful setting. Once enabled, these protections can't be turned off, shielding you against even the most sophisticated attacks. And new features are on the way, including tighter controls over app permissions and network connections. To turn on Google's Advanced Protection, follow these steps: Settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer. You may be prompted to verify your identity (such as entering your password or using biometric authentication). Once you've completed the steps, you'll see a confirmation that Advanced Protection is active. Note: After activation, these protections cannot be turned off without unenrolling from Advanced Protection. You can review and adjust related security settings within the Advanced Protection menu, such as app permissions and network controls, as new features become available. If you don't see the option, make sure your device is updated to Android 16 and check for any additional requirements, such as a Google account or specific device compatibility. Some features may require additional verification steps, like using a security key or two-factor authentication, especially if you're enrolling for the first time or on a new device. While Android is doing a lot to protect you, there are a few extra steps you can take to boost your security: Install strong antivirus software: This adds another layer of defense against malware and suspicious apps. Google Play Protect, which is built-in malware protection for Android devices, automatically removes known malware. However, it is important to note that Google Play Protect may not be enough. Historically, it isn't 100% foolproof at removing all known malware from Android devices. So, you may want to choose a strong antivirus app and keep it updated for maximum protection. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices. Keep your device updated: Always install the latest Android updates to patch any security vulnerabilities. Updates often include important security fixes that protect against new threats. To do this, go to Settings, tap System or About phone, select Software update or System update, then tap Download and Install if an update is available. Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts to reduce the risk if one is compromised. Consider a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here. Be cautious with app permissions: Only grant apps the permissions they truly need. Review permissions regularly and revoke any that seem unnecessary or intrusive. Enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra step to your logins, making it more difficult for others to access your accounts. Most major apps and services offer this feature in their security settings. Download apps only from the Google Play Store: Avoid third-party stores, which are more likely to host unsafe apps. The Play Store has security checks that help reduce the risk of downloading malicious software. Regularly review your privacy settings: Make sure you're comfortable with what you're sharing. Adjust settings to limit data sharing and enhance your privacy whenever possible. Consider a personal data removal service: Scammers often start by gathering information about you from public records and data broker sites. Using a personal data removal service can help scrub your personal details from these sites, making it much harder for scammers to target you. If you're concerned about your privacy or just want to take your security to the next level, this is a smart step to consider. While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren't cheap and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It's what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here. Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web. Keeping your phone and personal data secure is more important than ever, but Android is making it easier to stay protected with smarter scam detection, new ways to keep track of your devices and loved ones, and the strongest security features yet. By taking a few extra steps, like using strong passwords, keeping your device updated, and considering a personal data removal service, you're adding even more layers of protection against evolving threats. Security is always changing, but with these tools and habits, you can use your Android device with greater confidence and peace of mind. Who do you think should bear the greatest responsibility for keeping your data safe: tech companies, the government, or you as an individual? Let us know by writing us at For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Follow Kurt on his social channels: Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions: New from Kurt: Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Master Your Galaxy S25 Edge: Essential Tips, Tricks & Secret Features
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is a sophisticated smartphone designed to provide a seamless and highly personalized user experience. With its advanced features and intuitive design, it caters to users who prioritize customization, productivity, and performance. By exploring its capabilities, you can fully harness the potential of this device to suit your unique needs. The awesome video below from Hayls World covers a range of great tips and tricks for the device. Watch this video on YouTube. Customizing the User Interface The Galaxy S25 Edge offers a wide range of options to personalize its interface, allowing you to create a device that reflects your style and preferences. Samsung's One UI provides tools to make navigation intuitive and visually appealing: Custom Themes: Access the built-in Theme Store to download themes that match your aesthetic preferences, from minimalistic designs to vibrant layouts. Access the built-in Theme Store to download themes that match your aesthetic preferences, from minimalistic designs to vibrant layouts. Always-On Display: Customize the Always-On Display to show essential information such as time, notifications, or even personal images, making sure quick access to what matters most. Customize the Always-On Display to show essential information such as time, notifications, or even personal images, making sure quick access to what matters most. Edge Panels: Enable Edge Panels to access apps, contacts, and tools with a simple swipe, streamlining multitasking and improving efficiency. These features allow you to tailor the device to your liking, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. Mastering Advanced Camera Features The Galaxy S25 Edge features a powerful camera system designed to cater to both casual users and photography enthusiasts. Its advanced features enable you to capture stunning images and videos with ease: Pro Mode: Gain full control over settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance, allowing you to fine-tune your shots for professional-quality results. Gain full control over settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance, allowing you to fine-tune your shots for professional-quality results. Scene Optimizer: Use AI-powered enhancements that automatically adjust settings based on the subject, making sure optimal image quality in various scenarios. Use AI-powered enhancements that automatically adjust settings based on the subject, making sure optimal image quality in various scenarios. Director's View: Record videos using multiple lenses simultaneously, offering dynamic perspectives and creative storytelling options. Whether you're capturing everyday moments or creating cinematic content, these tools empower you to elevate your photography and videography skills. Maximizing Battery Life Battery life is a critical aspect of any smartphone, and the Galaxy S25 Edge is equipped with features to help you stay connected throughout the day. By using its power management tools, you can extend battery life and maintain long-term performance: Adaptive Battery: This feature learns your usage patterns and limits power consumption for less frequently used apps, optimizing energy efficiency. This feature learns your usage patterns and limits power consumption for less frequently used apps, optimizing energy efficiency. Power Saving Mode: Activate this mode to reduce background activity, lower screen brightness, and conserve power during extended use. Activate this mode to reduce background activity, lower screen brightness, and conserve power during extended use. Charging Limit: Set a charging cap at 85% to prevent overcharging, which helps preserve battery health over time. These options ensure your device remains reliable, even during periods of heavy usage or when you're on the go. Boosting Productivity The Galaxy S25 Edge is designed to enhance productivity, offering tools that streamline workflows and support multitasking. Whether you're working remotely or managing daily tasks, these features can help you stay organized and efficient: Samsung DeX: Transform your phone into a desktop-like experience by connecting it to a monitor or TV, allowing you to work on larger screens with ease. Transform your phone into a desktop-like experience by connecting it to a monitor or TV, allowing you to work on larger screens with ease. Customizable Edge Panels: Add shortcuts to frequently used apps, tasks, or clipboard history, reducing the time spent navigating through menus. Add shortcuts to frequently used apps, tasks, or clipboard history, reducing the time spent navigating through menus. Split Screen: Run two apps simultaneously, such as taking notes during a video call or browsing the web while watching a video. These tools make it easier to manage tasks, making sure you can stay productive no matter where you are. Enhancing Security and Privacy Protecting your personal data is a top priority, and the Galaxy S25 Edge offers robust security features to safeguard your information. These tools provide peace of mind and ensure your device remains secure: Secure Folder: Store sensitive files, photos, and apps in an encrypted space that is accessible only to you. Store sensitive files, photos, and apps in an encrypted space that is accessible only to you. Biometric Authentication: Use the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner or facial recognition for fast and secure access to your device. Use the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner or facial recognition for fast and secure access to your device. Samsung Knox: Benefit from real-time protection against malware and unauthorized access, keeping your data safe at all times. These features ensure that your privacy is maintained, giving you confidence in the security of your device. Optimizing Performance To ensure the Galaxy S25 Edge operates at peak performance, Samsung has included tools to help you manage resources and maintain smooth functionality. These features are particularly useful for demanding applications and intensive tasks: Device Care: Access this tool from the settings menu to clean up storage, manage memory, and monitor battery usage, keeping your device running efficiently. Access this tool from the settings menu to clean up storage, manage memory, and monitor battery usage, keeping your device running efficiently. Performance Mode: Activate this mode to prioritize speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for gaming or resource-intensive applications. By using these tools, you can maintain optimal performance and enjoy a seamless user experience. Managing Apps and Storage Efficient app and storage management is essential for keeping your device organized and functional. The Galaxy S25 Edge provides several features to help you manage your apps and storage effectively: App Drawer: Organize your apps into folders or hide unused ones, creating a clutter-free interface that is easy to navigate. Organize your apps into folders or hide unused ones, creating a clutter-free interface that is easy to navigate. Storage Analyzer: Identify large files and unused apps to free up space quickly, making sure your device remains responsive. Identify large files and unused apps to free up space quickly, making sure your device remains responsive. Expandable Memory: Use a microSD card to increase storage capacity, providing additional space for photos, videos, and apps. These tools help you maintain a well-organized device that adapts to your storage needs. Using Accessibility Features Samsung has prioritized inclusivity by incorporating a range of accessibility features into the Galaxy S25 Edge. These tools ensure that the device is usable by a diverse audience, regardless of individual needs: Voice Assistant: Provides audio feedback for users with visual impairments, making navigation more accessible. Provides audio feedback for users with visual impairments, making navigation more accessible. Magnifier Tool: Zoom in on text or images for improved visibility, enhancing the user experience for those with visual challenges. Zoom in on text or images for improved visibility, enhancing the user experience for those with visual challenges. Custom Interaction Controls: Adjust gesture-based navigation and touch sensitivity to create a seamless and personalized experience. These features demonstrate Samsung's commitment to inclusivity, making sure that everyone can enjoy the full capabilities of the Galaxy S25 Edge. Find more information on Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge tips by browsing our extensive range of articles, guides and tutorials. Source & Image Credit: Hayls World Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone News, 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
6 days ago
- Android Authority
These are the niche features I wish Samsung Good Lock also let me customize
Ryan Haines / Android Authority I think it's safe to say that Samsung's Good Lock is the most powerful customization toolkit in the Android ecosystem for those who want even more control over their One UI devices. Good Lock modules unlock the lock screen, tweak themes, and extend Routines far beyond their initial capabilities. It's grown so much since its early days that I couldn't imagine using a Samsung phone without it. However, there are still several areas where Good Lock falls short. Existing modules leave these elements untouched and unchangeable, but this shouldn't be the case. Here are five customization blind spots I'd like Samsung to address with Good Lock or through One UI directly in the future. What do you want Good Lock to include in the future? 0 votes More control over fonts. NaN % Additional UI settings for notifications. NaN % More haptic feedback tweaks and options. NaN % Now Bar customizations. NaN % Device performance controls. NaN % Something else entirely (mention in comments). NaN % Custom font faces and sizes Joe Maring / Android Authority When it comes to elements you can tweak on One UI, very few items are out of reach. Through QuickStar, I can choose the colors I want for my Quick Settings, like lime green text on an OLED black background. HomeUp lets me endlessly modify my lock screen appearance and build productive home screens, and Keys Cafe can turn my keyboard into a Christmas tree (if I used Samsung's keyboard, that is). But one aspect that remains completely untouchable is system fonts. Sure, apps use their specific fonts, and Samsung offers around a dozen typefaces for selection and download, but customization ends there. I can't install or use fonts not permitted by Samsung, including fonts that should work on an Android system. No Good Lock modules offer adjustments for fonts across the system, either. I want the option to tweak individual faces and font sizes, whether in the Settings category headlines or notifications. More UI tweaks for notifications Joe Maring / Android Authority Speaking of notifications, HomeUp makes light work of turning One UI's home screen into a complete carnival, but it doesn't give me enough control over how notifications appear on my device. On One UI 7, I can adjust the background and foreground colors for notifications and Quick Settings shades, but these changes are superficial. I want the option to adjust notification box sizes, corner radii, app icons, and reposition the notification time. As One UI 7 stands, it uses too much blank space per notification pill — finer adjustments would let me fit more into this space. Additionally, HomeUp forces me to make blanket font color changes, but I want more specific editing abilities for my notification details. Offering app-specific color notification boxes or icons from custom icon packs would be a welcome option. Now Bar customizations Zac Kew-Denniss / Android Authority The Now Bar is one of my favorite One UI 7 features but has no customization options. Granted, it's a new feature that hasn't fully matured yet, but I can already envision customization options for it in future Good Lock modules. It would be useful to be able to adjust the Now Bar's transparency, placement, text color, and background saturation, making the information more legible and accessible. These options would benefit those who use the feature to monitor media. This would be especially useful for me since I use Now Bar to view currently playing tracks on my lock screen while working. Being able to force the larger album art view or choose which song stats to view on the Now Bar would let me keep my phone locked while enhancing my enjoyment of the content. Broader device performance controls Robert Triggs / Android Authority Finally, I want to touch on Good Lock's potential for phone performance parameters. While Good Guardians allowed more control over device hardware, including adjusting the CPU throttling temperature threshold, I feel more control could be had here. In this vein, I'd welcome a Good Lock module to control various hardware limits. Yes, I know the potential liability of such a module, but a simple disclaimer splash screen could easily solve this. What controls do I seek? For one, without enabling any battery restrictions, I'd like to limit my Galaxy S24 FE's maximum clock speed, whether a nominal value or a performance percentage (similar to how Windows handles this). Additionally, options to use this in conjunction with frame rate options, allowing me to select the lowest possible CPU performance value to make 120Hz possible, would improve battery life without sacrificing visual fidelity. The third-party app Galaxy Max Hz could accomplish this, but it no longer works on my device. Good Lock and its myriad modules are handy, but still have plenty of unfulfilled potential. From aesthetic tweaks to hardware adjustments, Samsung gives users more control, which would only enhance the Galaxy smartphone experience. The question is: would Samsung be willing and able to add these modules in the future? What are your thoughts on the current abilities of Good Lock modules? Do they go far enough, or would you value more power? Let us know in the comments below.
GSM Arena
13-06-2025
- GSM Arena
Samsung Galaxy F36 surfaces in the Google Play Console, here's what it looks like
Samsung is working on the Galaxy F36, and today it's been spotted in the Google Play Console. The listing brings with it the image you can see below, as well as a few specs. The F36 comes with a waterdrop notch screen, and an oval camera island housing three sensors, two of them in another oval of their own. The LED flash array is to the right. Overall it's a very Samsung-esque design, and the integration of all the cameras into one big island has become a staple for devices that aren't flagships. The phone's screen has 1080x2340 resolution and 450 ppi pixel density. The F36 is powered by Samsung's Exynos 1380 SoC, paired with 6GB of RAM. The device will launch running Android 15 with One UI 7 on top, even though Google has already finalized Android 16. Google Play Console listings strongly imply that the Galaxy F36 will be identical to the Galaxy M36, which was spotted in the Geekbench database in April rocking the same Exynos chipset. These are both likely to become official very soon, perhaps even by the end of the month. Via
