Apps
Google Keep enhances its offerings with Samsung Notes-inspired features
Google Keep is a popular note-taking app on Android devices and it is preparing to introduce new features, similar to Samsung Notes. The search giant aims to enhance the Google Keep app with more functionality.
Recent reports reveal that Google is working on adding handwriting mode, which supports both stylus and finger. This feature will let users write by hand, add images, and mix text for drawing and brainstorming. Notably, Galaxy users are already enjoying the handwriting mode via the Samsung Notes app.
The Handwriting mode of the Google Keep app will be separate from the existing drawing tools, which means users can continue using the old drawing UI for previous notes.
Moreover, the new handwritten notes will display the title at the top, while the old drawings will keep it at the bottom. Users will also be able to export these handwritten notes as PDFs, unlike hand-drawn notes, which can only be shared as images.
This new option of the Google Keep app will allow users to create a note by clicking their stylus anywhere on the screen to make capturing ideas on the go easier. This feature has been spotted on Google Keep version 5.24.422.02.90, thanks to AssembleDebug (via AndroidAuthority).
In addition to the handwriting mode, the latest app version reveals new options for creating notes, including text, checkbox lists, and image-based notes. Users will also see improved image support for resizing and cropping directly within notes.
Aside from this, a “Text to Sketch” feature is in the works that will allow users to create sketches using AI through text prompts. Currently, these features are under development and there’s no confirmation of the release timeline.
WhatsApp is a messaging and calling app that lets users send messages, photos, videos, and more. With the latest beta update, WhatsApp is making it easier to discover and follow channels with QR codes. Users can verify the update through version 2.24.22.20, which is available on the Google Play Beta Program.
The fresh beta update introduces a new feature that allows users to view and follow channels using QR codes. This new feature is currently under development and will be available in a future update.
The QR code feature of WhatsApp will let channel owners share their channels quickly and easily. Instead of sending a link, they can show or send a QR code that others can scan with their phones.
This feature provides an easy way for users to access channels, especially in social settings like events or meetups, where they can scan the code and follow the channel instantly.
Previously, WhatsApp added a shortcut to the updates tab to make it easier for users to find channels that interest them. They also moved the channel creation option to a different menu for a more organized view.
Aside from this, WhatsApp is also testing the “Get link info on Google” feature via beta update. Testers can now easily check the authenticity of any link shared in individual or group chats to reduce the risk of falling scams.
Samsung has started rolling out a major update to its Health app with version 6.28 (6.28.1.005) for Galaxy devices. This update is available on the Galaxy Store with an installation package size of around 3.84MB. It aims to enhance user experience and health management.
The Korean tech giant has recently announced a big update for Samsung Health that will allow users to easily access their health records, effectively manage medications, and track their daily food intake with convenience.
Now, the update is rolling out through Galaxy Store and users can take advantage of these features. To install the update, you just need to open the Galaxy Store app >> Menu option >> Download. Also, you can download the update through third-party app link mentioned here.
What’s New
The latest version 6.28 of the Samsung Health app arrives with a barcode scanning feature, which allows users to scan barcodes on food items for quick entry. Currently, this feature is limited to select countries.
Moreover, the Medications feature expands access in India and South Korea, which lets users use their device’s camera for visual search. This enhancement makes it easier to add medications, track dosages, and monitor side effects.
The Health Records feature allows US users to access medical reports from various healthcare providers, thanks to partnerships with the largest electronic medical record (EMR) systems, including b.well Connected Health, Athenahealth, Cerner Health, Epic Systems, and Veradigm.
In addition to these new features, the update also brings some bug fixes and functional improvements to ensure a smoother user experience.
Google Photos is making it easier for users to know when their images have been edited using AI, adding a new information section. This new feature aims to enhance transparency by displaying clear information about AI edits.
Starting next week, a new AI Info section will be available for Google Photos users. This section will provide information on photos that edited with tools like Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, and Zoom Enhance.
Currently, photos edited with these tools already include special metadata that shows they were enhanced using generative AI. With the upcoming update, this information will be visible next to other details like the file name, location, and backup status in the Google Photos app.
In the AI Info section, users will see Credit and Digital source type. These two options will let them understand where the images come from. Below these two options, there is Metadata that is modifiable.
Moreover, Google will also use metadata for images taken with features like Best Take and Add Me. However, it’s still unclear if users will see this metadata in the same way as for AI-edited photos.
Google wants to use AI responsibly and keep users informed, following its AI Principles. By making it easier to see when AI has been used in editing, Google is ensuring that users have a better understanding of the photos they create and share.
Stay tuned for the Google Photos update next week as it will let you enjoy detailed AI edit information.