Apps
Magic Compose button gets a fresh look in Google Messages
Google is testing a new design for its Messages app that makes the Magic Compose button easier to access. This change is being tested in the latest beta version of Google Messages, and users may see it in future updates.
The Magic Compose feature helps you rewrite your messages in different styles. It used to be hidden behind a small arrow when you typed, which made it hard to find. But now, with the new design, Magic Compose moves to the same row as smart reply suggestions.
The new place of the Magic Compose button on Google Messages makes it visible all the time, even when no reply suggestions are shown. Talking about the appearance, it has a button, which is pill-shaped with a sparkle, located on the far right of the smart reply row. It also changes color to match the send button, thanks to Android’s Dynamic Color feature.
Now, the Magic Compose button changes to Magic Rewrite (via 9to5Google) when you start typing in the message box. The rewrite feature shows a pencil icon with a sparkle, letting you quickly rewrite your message. The feature still works the same way to offer different ways to phrase your message with just a tap.
The change is designed to make the app cleaner and easier to use. In the old design, there were multiple buttons like the “plus” menu, gallery, and Magic Compose, all in the bottom row. Now that Magic Compose is moved into the smart reply row, the text box is bigger and there’s less clutter on the screen.
Apps
Samsung boosts Auto Blocker with new ‘Maximum Restrictions’ feature
Samsung has rolled out a fresh update for its Auto Blocker app with version 1.1.00.28. The update brings a new layer of security as it introduces the “Maximum restrictions” option for users who require extra protection against potential threats.
The fresh update is rolling out for Galaxy devices running One UI 6.1.1. It offers different conditions for One UI 6.1.1 and the upcoming One UI 7. Notably, the upcoming One UI iteration will provide enhanced security with Auto Blocker.
The fresh update of Samsung Auto Blocker adds the “Maximum restrictions” mode, which offers stronger protection for sensitive data. When activated, this mode restricts certain features on the device to limit exposure to unauthorized access.
The update turns on the “App protection” feature, which blocks the activation of device admin apps and work profiles. Additionally, some Samsung apps, including Samsung Messages and Gallery, will have limited functionality when this mode is enabled.
What’s new for One UI 7 devices?
With One UI 7, the “Maximum restrictions” mode will receive even more robust protections. When the Auto Blocker turns on, it blocks USB connections and prevents devices from connecting to your phone for purposes other than charging. In addition, the update also blocks 2G networks and prevents automatic reconnection to non-secure Wi-Fi networks.
Aside from this, Samsung has already started rolling out One UI 7’s Auto Blocker maximum restrictions conditions to Galaxy devices through a new update. Currently, some Galaxy flagships received its support and will expand to more soon.
US unlocked Galaxy S24 gets advanced Auto Blocker with November 2024 update
Apps
Google Keep ditches bottom bar for a sleek new floating button
Google is rolling out a new look for its Google Keep app via a new update. The fresh design replaces the old bottom bar with a new floating action button (FAB) to make the Google Keep app look cleaner and easier to use.
Previously, Google Keep had a bottom bar that included options to create lists, drawings, audio notes, and photos, as well as a button to add a new note.
With the new design, this bottom bar is gone (via 9to5Google). Instead, the FAB, located in the bottom right corner of the screen, now includes all the bottom bar tasks. It uses pill-shaped buttons for each option to give the app a more modern, amazing look.
When you tap the Floating button of Google Keep, a menu appears with options to create a new note, list, drawing, or photo. Notably, one missing feature is the ability to create an audio note, which was available in the old bar.
The new look provides a less cluttered look to the app and space on the screen for your notes. It also helps to focus on the content without too many buttons taking up space.
But now, adding a new note, list, drawing, or photo requires an extra step. Before you could just tap the bottom bar to do it right away.
The update is available for Android users with Google Keep version 5.24.432.x. However, there’s no word yet on when it will expand.
WhatsApp to let users pick their preferred main color for app interface
WhatsApp has rolled out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, which gives users a sneak peek at an exciting feature that will soon allow them to change the app’s main color.
The latest beta version 2.24.23.18 arrives with a new theme customization option, which allows users to cutomize the main color of the app. This feature is currently under development but it promises to offer a more personalized experience for WhatsApp users in the future.
In the light theme, the classic green color will be replaced with black which creates a modern and minimalist design. In the dark theme, white will become the main color, making it easier to read in low-light conditions.
This customization feature will give users more control over the app’s look and add the ability to choose a color as per their preference. Moreover, it’s designed to make the interface cleaner and easier to use.
WhatsApp first teased this theme customization feature in earlier beta version 2.24.18.6, where users saw hints of new color options. Since then, WhatsApp has been enhancing the feature, including adjustments to the logo and other elements of the design.
This new feature is still under development and is expected to be available with upcoming beta updates. If you’re testing the WhatsApp Beta, you may get access to the feature earlier than others. Keep an eye on future updates to see when the new theme customization option will be available to all users.