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.
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.
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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+
Apps
Samsung Wallet brings digital key support to Audi vehicles
Samsung Wallet has introduced support for a Digital Key for Audi vehicles, which offers Galaxy smartphone users a more convenient way to access and start their cars without the need for a physical key. This feature is powered by ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to ensure precise functionality and enhanced security.
Audi drivers can now lock and unlock their vehicles, open the trunk, and start their cars using Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The Samsung Digital Key can be easily stored and accessed within Samsung Wallet, which allows users to control their car from their phone without having to take it out of their pocket.
Additionally, the Digital Key can be securely shared with others, with owners having the ability to grant or disable access remotely via a user-friendly interface.
The UWB technology ensures that the key works accurately and securely, minimizing the risk of unauthorized vehicle access. The system meets EAL6+ security standards to offer robust protection against digital threats. If a device containing the Digital Key is lost or stolen, users can remotely lock or delete the key using Samsung Find.
Samsung Wallet Digital Key support for Audi vehicles is initially rolling out in Europe this month, with plans for a global expansion in line with new Audi vehicle releases. European countries including the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, France, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Switzerland can use the Digital key for their Audi cars.