Apps
YouTube Music will get AI-powered ‘Ask for Music’ feature
New findings say a new AI-powered Ask for Music feature coming to YouTube Music. Evidence confirming the existence of the feature was discovered in the YouTube Music app for Android v7.06.53.
Whether YouTube Music will add this AI feature as Ask for Music is a subject to be seen. Recently, it was reported that the company is working on a Gemini Extension for YouTube Music.
These developments reiterate that Google is committed to fueling the most popular services with AI capability. YouTube Music is one of the most popular apps, rivaling Spotify and Apple Music in the United States.
AndroidAuthority says that the new feature could replace the current voice search function. Thanks to AI integration, Ask for Music will likely let users search for music in natural language.
It is also assumed that YouTube Music will make song discovery more easier. The app could enable searching for songs by describing the music videos or asking for songs similar to [artist/song name], etc.
Apart from this, the APKTeardown also revealed a user interface-related detail. YouTube Music might add a YouTube app like launch animation. These changes are expected to be deployed with future updates to the app.
Work-in-progress code (for reference):
- <string name=”ask_for_music_prompt”>Ask for music</string>
- <string name=”ask_music_submit_button”>Submit</string>
- <string name=”ai_feature_input_disclaimer”>AI-generated responses are experimental. Quality and accuracy may vary. Please don’t enter confidential or personal information regarding yourself or others.</string>
WhatsApp introduces camera and gallery shortcuts in chat bar
WhatsApp is rolling out a new update for beta testers with version 2.24.24.16, which brings new shortcuts to the chat interface. This update introduces a gallery shortcut to make it easier to share photos and videos from your phone directly within chats.
WhatsApp recently replaced the camera shortcut in the chat bar with a gallery button for beta users. While this change allowed users to quickly share stored photos and videos, many users missed the camera shortcut, which gave them fast access to the camera for capturing moments on the spot.
Based on feedback, WhatsApp has decided to bring back both shortcuts in the chat bar. Now, users will see two buttons in the chat interface – one for quickly taking a photo or video using the camera and another for browsing and sharing photos or videos from their gallery.
These two shortcuts for the chat interface of WhatsApp make it quicker to share photos or capture new ones, without having to navigate through extra menus.
This feature is still in beta, so it’s available to only some testers right now. The feature will gradually be rolled out to more users in the coming weeks
WhatsApp is collecting feedback to see if the new dual shortcut setup improves the experience or if it feels cluttered. If you are testing beta on WhatsApp, install the latest version now.
Apps
Android Auto 13.3 stable update brings HD Radio, Autofill, and more enhancements
Android Auto 13.3 stable update is now rolling for users via the Google Play Store. It brings some exciting new features that make your driving experience better. Recently, this update has been available for beta users and now all Android users can enjoy it.
The update adds HD radio stations, which improves the Car Radio feature, giving you more options to listen to. You’ll now find a wide variety of radio channels, including genres like classic rock, country, hip-hop, jazz, and more.
Moreover, Android Auto also now supports new radio frequencies, including FM, HD, and DAB, along with a new HD radio logo for a fresh look.
The stable 13.3 update added a most useful feature named Autofill. This feature makes it easier to log into apps like Spotify or fill in personal details (like your name, address, or passwords) across different apps.
Instead of manually typing everything, Android Auto will automatically fill in these details for you to save time and reduce mistakes. This feature uses the information saved in your Google account to make the process smoother.
Furthermore, the update also improves support for electric vehicles (EVs). With the latest update, Android Auto 13.3 now works with new EV charging connectors like Tesla’s NACS, Type, and 6 LECCS for light electric vehicles, such as scooters. This makes it easier for EV drivers to find and use charging stations.
If you use the Android Auto app, install the update now to enjoy new features and improvements. You can download the update from the Google Play Store.
Good Lock
Samsung could restore GIF capture feature removed in One UI 6.1.1
Samsung has shared an update about the removal of the GIF capture feature in the One Hand Operation+ app following the One UI 6.1.1 update. Several users enjoyed the GIF capture feature as it allowed them to capture GIFs easily using gestures.
However, Samsung removed the GIF capture feature with the One UI 6.1.1 update and integrated it into Samsung’s new AI Select function. Now, a Samsung community moderator mentioned that the company could provide a GIF capture feature again.
Samsung’s One Hand Operation+ app lets users perform various tasks on their Galaxy phone with simple hand gestures. This app connects different phone functions to make it easier to control your device with just one hand. However, when a feature like GIF capture is removed, it also means the app can no longer provide it through gestures.
The moderator explained that since the GIF capture feature has been moved to the AI Select function, the app no longer has access to it. He also mentioned that the app cannot bring the feature back on its own without it being available in the phone’s terminal first.
Although the GIF capture feature is not available right now, Samsung has stated that it might return in the future if the functionality is reinstated in the terminal’s system.
Samsung apologized for any inconvenience caused by this change and promised to continue working on improving the app and the overall user experience with future updates. Users are advised to stay tuned for any updates or changes to the app’s features.
Samsung considers reintroducing Smart Select feature for One Hand Operation+