Apps
Google Messages to send warnings for sensitive content
Google is making it easier for users to manage sensitive images in the Messages app with a new feature, Sensitive Content Warnings. This feature will protect users from unexpected nudity in the messages they receive. It is expected to be available soon for the Messages app.
Following last month’s announcement, new insights from an APK teardown (via Android Authority) of the latest Google Messages Beta reveal how the upcoming Sensitive Content Warnings feature will work to protect users from unwanted nudity. It will be available on devices running Android 9 and newer, including Android Go devices.
When a photo that might contain sensitive content is sent, it will automatically be blurred. Users will have the option to either view the image or ignore it. Both the sender and the receiver will see warnings about the sensitive content.
These warnings will include reminders and advice like, “The person in this photo may not have agreed to share it with others,” and notifications stating, “You’re seeing this because sensitive content warnings are on.”
Notably, this feature will work on users’ devices without affecting the end-to-end encryption used in RCS chats. For users under 18, the feature will be available as an optional opt-out through Android Settings.
The latest Google Messages beta shows that this new feature is being actively developed and is expected to be rolled out in the coming months.
WhatsApp has introduced a gallery shortcut in its latest update for Android users. This new option allows users to access their photo and video gallery directly from the chat bar.
With the fresh update, the chat bar has now a new gallery icon that replaces the camera shortcut. This change makes it faster for users to access their stored photos and videos without going through multiple steps.
Users can simply tap the new gallery button to browse their media. However, they can still press and hold the button to record instant video messages, so this important feature remains available.
Previously, WhatsApp added a quick reply feature for video messages to make it easier to respond. Now, a new gallery icon is under testing for the WhatsApp chat bar that replaces the camera shortcut.
Currently, the gallery shortcut feature is available only to a limited group of beta testers with WhatsApp Beta version 2.24.23.11 for Android devices. The company seems to be testing this update to gather feedback.
Some users may prefer quick access to the gallery, while others might miss the old camera shortcut. For now, those who have access to the gallery shortcut can enjoy a faster way to share photos and videos.
WhatsApp now lets you easily organize chats with custom lists
Google is going to introduce Google Wallet for kids in 2025. This new feature will allow children to make payments right from their phones. Building on Family Link service, the Google Wallet app helps parents keep track of their kids’ device usage.
Earlier this year, Google Wallet for Kids launched on the Fitbit Ace, but now it’s expanding to smartphones. As cash use declines and contactless payments become more common, Google is ready to expand it Walllet option to kids’ devices (via 9to5Google).
Google Wallet app will work on Android devices that are set up with Family Link. While Google hasn’t listed specific compatible devices yet, it’s possible that Pixel phones will get it first before it becomes available on other Android phones including Samsung.
When Google Wallet is available, parents will have tools to manage their kids’ spending. They will be able to see what their children are buying which helps to teach them about money management.
Moreover, this new feature will make it easier for kids to make purchases while giving parents the ability to monitor their spending. Parents can look forward to this upgrade, as it offers a safe way for children to handle money. Stay tuned with us for more updates.
Samsung’s One UI 6.1.1 update has brought some changes that several users are not happy about. One of them is the removal of the Smart Select feature, which is now expected to return with the upcoming One Hand Operation+ Good Lock module update.
The smart select feature of One Hand Operation+ allowed users to quickly select and share content with just a gesture. It was very useful for people who often use their phones with one hand.
Since the update, many users have shared their concerns in community forums. Smart Select was a popular tool for those who relied on one-handed use, and removing it has made that task difficult.
In response to this feedback, a Samsung community moderator has shared some information on smart select feature availability. He mentioned that Samsung is looking into the possibility of bringing back the Smart Select feature in future updates to the One Hand Operation+ app.
However, no specific timeline has been given for the return of the Smart Select feature but many users are hopeful that it will come back soon.
As Samsung works on improving its software, users are encouraged to stay tuned with new updates to the One Hand Operation+ app. Several users are looking forward to the return of the Smart Select feature, which would make using their devices easier again with One Hand.
Samsung to bring Dual Messenger support to One Hand Operation in future updates