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Yuzu: The Game-Changing Switch Emulator Lands on Android

By
Sajin Vargheese
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0

Emulation has long found a home in the Android environment, allowing players to recreate vintage gaming experiences. On the other hand, navigating the intricate landscape of producing and publishing emulators has proven to be a legal minefield, leading to the failure of many such initiatives. While emulators for obsolete platforms typically avoid legal attention, recent events around the Nintendo Switch emulator Skyline serve as a reminder that modern console emulation can swiftly attract the ire of corporations.

Despite Skyline’s setback, a new Switch emulator has appeared on the Play Store. Yuzu is an emulator that lets you play pirated Switch games on your Android mobile, albeit with a few glitches initially. While it is still in its early stages, Yuzu is currently the best way to enjoy your favorite Switch titles on Android.

Yuzu is free to download, but an Early Access edition is available for purchase, allowing you to test new features before they are officially launched. Furthermore, Yuzu’s development is open source, allowing interested parties to view the source code on their GitHub page. However, because this is the emulator’s first public journey into the Android arena, there may be some initial stumbling blocks to overcome.

The Yuzu website offers a detailed description of performance predictions across various phone types. While owners of high-end Android gaming phones should usually have smooth emulation, the website notes that “a regular Samsung Galaxy S23, on the other hand, is a boiling machine, climbing to 90°C in seconds.” Despite sharing similar hardware characteristics with the best Android handsets, gaming-oriented phones prioritize sufficient cooling methods, typically adding specialized space and fans, allowing them to manage Yuzu’s demands successfully.

Regarding Yuzu emulation, temperature control isn’t the only thing to consider. The recommended RAM size for optimal performance is 8GB, with the most resource-intensive Switch titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, requiring a whopping 12GB. Fortunately, Yuzu provides a detailed list of tested games on the emulator and any known issues with them.

Emulation enterprises are fraught with complications, but if Yuzu can successfully traverse the legal minefield, it can establish itself as a prominent emulator on the Android platform.

Google’s DMCA Response: The Uncertain Fate of the Downloader App

By
Shanmugam
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0
Image Credit: androidpolice.com

Becoming an Android developer on the Play Store presents numerous challenges. It’s not just about building a reputation and attracting app downloads; you must also navigate the unpredictable and sometimes devastating impact of Play Store policy enforcement. Unfortunately, many developers who genuinely strive to adhere to the rules have experienced the sudden removal of their apps from the platform. The latest victim of what appears to be an unfair removal is an app accused of supporting piracy solely due to the inclusion of a web browser.

Downloader, a popular Android TV app, addresses a significant issue power users face: the seamless transfer of files to these devices, particularly for sideloading apps. Among its features, the app includes a web browser optimized for remote usage, enabling users to retrieve files from websites conveniently. Essentially, Downloader does what its name suggests.

The predicament originates from a law firm representing multiple Israeli TV companies, which filed a Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) complaint with Google, as reported by Ars Technica. The firm asserts that the app can access a piracy website, alleging numerous people exploit it to obtain content without payment. However, the app’s developer, Elias Saba, vehemently denies affiliation with the piracy website. He asserts that his app solely directs users to the homepage of his website, AFTVnews, without leading them elsewhere.

Saba filed an appeal soon after receiving the DMCA complaint through the Play Console. However, Google swiftly rejected his request within an hour. Undeterred, he submitted a second appeal using Google’s DMCA counter-notification form. He awaits a response, with the latest update on his request occurring earlier today. Regrettably, Saba lacks visibility into the specific changes made, but it indicates that progress has been made since he initially submitted the form last Friday.

In a series of tweets, Saba highlights the inconsistency of taking down a browser merely because it can load a pirated website. He argues that if this were the case, all browsers within the Google Play Store should face removal. He expresses disappointment in Google’s passive approach, hoping they would implement measures to filter out baseless DMCA notices like the one he received.

Google has yet to reinstate the app, leaving the outcome uncertain for Saba’s arguments. While it is reasonable to envision the app’s return, given its similarity to other browsers available on the Play Store, nothing guarantees its reinstatement. Google has previously reinstated apps following DMCA claims, but even with a valid counter-notice, the resolution process can still extend for months before rectification is achieved.

Google’s Recorder App: Bridging the Gap for Larger Screens

By
Sajin Vargheese
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0

Each mobile phone manufacturer typically provides its own recording application, but Google Recorder stands out from the competition due to its exceptionally valuable transcription features. While the app was already helpful on its own, Google took it a step further last year by introducing the ability to identify individual speakers during recordings. With the imminent release of the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, Google is preparing the Recorder app to function seamlessly on larger screens.

According to a report from 9to5Google, the latest update of Google Recorder features an enhanced user interface specifically tailored for these new devices. The app’s layout now divides the screen into two halves: one side displays the waveform recording, while the other showcases the transcription. Moreover, when utilizing the transcription service, the playback controls are located in the bottom-right corner instead of occupying the entire right-hand side.

Although the update is already being rolled out, most users will only notice significant changes once they acquire the new set of Pixel devices. Those who are already familiar with the Recorder web app will find this update quite similar in appearance. Additionally, users may have observed that the web app allowed for adjusting playback speeds, and they will be delighted to discover that this feature is now available on the mobile app as well.

Historically, Google has not devoted much attention to optimizing its applications for large-screen devices. However, with the imminent release of the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, it seems that this trend is about to change. If you currently own an Android tablet and wish to utilize apps specifically designed for such devices, it would be worthwhile to explore the existing selection of tablet-optimized apps. While it may take some time before most Google apps become fully optimized for tablets, the recent update to Google Recorder represents a promising step in the right direction.

Next-Generation Snapdragon Processors: A Sneak Peek into the Future of Android Phones

By
Ramana Rishi
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0
Image Credit: dealntech.com

Presently, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 stands out as a top-tier processor for Android phones available in the market. However, there have already been leaks about the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, giving us a glimpse into its upcoming release. Now, fresh details regarding the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 have surfaced, courtesy of frequent tipster Digital Chat Station.

According to Digital Chat Station, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (presumably identified by the model number SM87505) will incorporate Qualcomm’s custom Nuvia CPU technology. This would mark a significant milestone, as it would be the first Snapdragon smartphone processor to adopt a Nuvia CPU.

The leaker goes on to reveal that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is expected to be announced in late 2024, with availability in 2025’s smartphones. Notably, the processor is anticipated to feature a 2+6 CPU core configuration. This hints at a departure from the traditional big/medium/little CPU setup that we’ve become accustomed to. Qualcomm’s custom CPU technology, known as Oryon, was briefly discussed at the Snapdragon Summit in 2022. The company had expressed its intention to introduce this technology first in PCs, which suggests we might witness it in action even before the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 hits the market.

The proposed 2+6 CPU core layout is particularly intriguing, as it implies that Qualcomm has been developing both powerful and efficient custom cores. This concept isn’t entirely new, as tipster Kuba Wojciechowski previously suggested that a desktop Snapdragon chip planned for 2024 could feature an octa-core custom CPU with eight high-performance cores and four energy-efficient cores.

While the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is anticipated to retain the conventional big/medium/little CPU configuration, it appears that Qualcomm might eventually move away from the three-tier approach it has employed since the Snapdragon 865 series in 2020. This potential shift would align the U.S. chipmaker more closely with Apple, which has successfully employed a two-tier CPU setup (comprising two high-performance cores and four energy-efficient cores) in its iPhone processors.

These developments in Snapdragon processors hold great promise for the future, as they push the boundaries of performance and efficiency, ultimately enhancing the user experience on Android devices.

Unskippable Ads on YouTube: The Impact on Viewers and Advertisers

By
Alex Infant
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0

The entertainment scene is changing dramatically as streaming alternatives gradually replace traditional cable television. YouTube is leading the effort, using a freemium model that allows viewers to either purchase YouTube Premium or suffer advertising that funds the platform and its creators. However, a fraction of YouTube viewers, particularly those watching on connected TVs, may now be subjected to lengthy and unskippable 30-second ads.

YouTube revealed its extraordinary reach of 150 million people on connected TVs in the United States alone during the recent Brandcast 2023 event when potential advertisers gathered. Increased video consumption on YouTube means a broader audience to market to and more options for ad placement for advertisers. As a result, the business announced a move to replace two 15-second unskippable adverts on linked TVs with a single 30-second unskippable spot. As one of the most popular entertainment apps, YouTube has made it apparent that it plans to utilize larger displays in people’s homes, giving advertisers more time to fascinate viewers and weave interesting tales around their products or services.

According to YouTube, the format change will not affect the watching experience. However, after testing our patience with unskippable advertising in September of the previous year, it’s clear that the firm recognized the business potential of this move. While it would be ideal if all advertisements were placed before uninterrupted content, the only way to avoid them is to subscribe to YouTube Premium.

Although these adjustments will initially be limited to linked TVs, YouTube’s language leaves room for future possibilities. Given that viewers frequently consume long-form material on larger displays, there is no reason why YouTube would not consider deploying 30-second unskippable advertising on mobile devices. We are hesitant to provide suggestions, but the potential is certainly there.

Advertisers may get these new 30-second spots via YouTube Select, which allows them to target specific demographics and select preferred YouTube creators to display their ads. Additionally, Google provided other prominent viewership figures during the Brandcast event, emphasizing advertisers and highlighting chances for organizations to showcase their brands even when users halt the content they are watching.

Android 14’s Potential Game-Changer: App Pairs and Seamless Multitasking

By
Ramana Rishi
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0

Android has long allowed users to multitask by utilizing split-view features. With the development of smartphones with enormous displays, split-view has proven to be a crucial technique for maximizing screen real estate. Tablets and foldable devices, in particular, benefit immensely from this functionality, as their larger displays are ideal for running two apps simultaneously. While Google’s attempt to introduce App Pairs in Android 12 did not succeed, there are signs that this may change with the introduction of Android 14 later this year.

Mishaal Rahman, a well-known Android specialist, recently tweeted about a new launcher flag in Android 14 beta 2. When enabled, this flag may allow the “save app pair” option, which is conveniently buried within the contextual split-screen menu in the Recent Apps view. Toggling the hidden flag currently produces no tangible results, implying that the feature is still in development and unsuitable for testing. Once fully functioning, the “save app pair” option will most likely allow users to build home screen shortcuts that directly start two apps in split-screen mode.

Aside from smartphones, the app pairing functionality has excellent promise for devices such as the Pixel Fold and Tablet. Because of their large screen sizes, these devices are perfect for multitasking with many apps simultaneously.

It’s worth mentioning that Samsung already has a similar App Pair feature on its top Galaxy S and Tab smartphones, while Microsoft has a similar capability on its Surface Duo lineup. As a result, Google’s inclusion of App Pair in Android 14 would essentially bring it up to speed with a feature that Samsung has had on its phones for several years.

WhatsApp Strengthens Security with New Chat Lock Feature

By
Alex Infant
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0

WhatsApp has made enormous efforts in recent years to improve the safety and security of its network. As one of the most popular Android messaging apps, with over a billion daily users and billions of messages received, it was critical for WhatsApp to make much-needed upgrades. Now, Meta’s messaging service is taking another step towards making chat safer and more secure by adding Chat Lock. Chat Lock, unlike the existing ability to lock WhatsApp using your phone’s password, PIN, or biometric verification, allows you to individually lock conversations, whether they are private with a loved one or group chats with friends.

When you lock a chat, it disappears from your primary WhatsApp inbox. Instead, it will be relocated to a different folder that will be protected by your phone’s PIN, password, or biometric authentication. Simply pull down gently while in WhatsApp’s primary inbox view to access the restricted chat folder. The Chat Lock option is available in the chat details section of each session. Furthermore, alerts from locked chats will not reveal the message content for further privacy. When you tap on a locked conversation, you will be prompted to use biometric authentication to authenticate your identity before you can access the message.

Meta has also stated that it intends to strengthen the Chat Lock feature in the future months. This includes the ability to lock chats on companion devices and the ability to generate custom chat passwords. You will be able to configure a separate lock for your private WhatsApp conversations, separate from your device unlock password or PIN, with personalized passwords. The Chat Lock feature is now available in the latest version of WhatsApp for both Android and iPhone users. If you’ve already upgraded to the most recent version, check the Chat details area to see if the option is accessible for your account.

Consider studying the main privacy features provided by WhatsApp that you should use to improve security.

Summary:

  • WhatsApp introduces the Chat Lock feature to improve security.
  • Individual discussions can be locked with Chat Lock.
  • Locked chats are relocated to their own folder and require a PIN, password, or biometric identification to access.
  • Message content is not displayed in notifications from locked chats.
  • In the future, you’ll be able to lock chats on companion devices and create bespoke passwords.
  • Chat Lock is now available in the most recent version of WhatsApp for Android and iPhone.
  • Check the Chat information area to verify if the function has been activated for your account.
  • For increased security, investigate WhatsApp’s additional privacy features.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5: What to Expect from the Upcoming Unveiling

By
Shanmugam
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0

Following the successful debut of the Galaxy S23 earlier this year, Samsung is preparing for its second major event of 2023. The Galaxy Z foldable series will be the focus this time, with the highly anticipated Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 slated to make their debut. Excitingly, a recent leak disclosed the rumored release date, implying an earlier release than usual.

According to a South Korean news outlet, Samsung’s second Galaxy Unpacked event of 2023 is scheduled for July 26, almost two weeks earlier than the company’s usual plan. The veracity of this leak is further enhanced by the confirmation of the date by noted leaker Max Jambor. If the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 are revealed in late July, they are projected to hit store shelves on August 11.

According to speculation, Samsung’s purpose for releasing the foldable series sooner than usual is to use up unsold semiconductor stock and reach revenue projections for Q3 2023. This strategic decision could assist the corporation in maximizing its resources while introducing new products to the market. Furthermore, unlike past events held in the United States or Europe, the forthcoming Galaxy Unpacked event will be placed in South Korea. This shift in location, however, is unlikely to affect the two phones’ international availability.

Several leaks and rumors have appeared, revealing details about the design and features of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. Notably, the bigger Galaxy Z Fold 5 will have a better hinge design akin to the Pixel Fold mechanism. This breakthrough enables the phone to fold seamlessly, with no visible gap between its parts. Furthermore, the smartphone is predicted to be lighter and slimmer than its predecessor while maintaining the same battery life.

The smaller Galaxy Z Flip 5 is rumored to include a larger cover display, providing customers with greater functionality without the need to unfold the phone. It may also include an Always-on Display (AOD) function, similar to the one featured in the iPhone 14 Pro. Both foldable are expected to include the updated Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, putting them on par with other leading Android smartphones.

Along with the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5, Samsung may use this event to unveil the Galaxy Watch 6 series, which is believed to include a current chipset upgrade. Overall, Samsung and tech fans alike have a lot to look forward to with the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked presentation.

Summary:

  • The Galaxy Z foldable series will be the subject of Samsung’s second major event in 2023.
  • The Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 are scheduled to be introduced two weeks sooner than usual on July 26.
  • The smartphones are expected to hit stores on August 11.
  • Samsung intends to use unsold semiconductor stock to reach sales targets for the third quarter of 2023.
  • The event will take place in South Korea, but international access should be unaffected.
  • The Galaxy Z Fold 5 will have a new hinge design for a more smooth closure.
  • The Galaxy Z Flip 5 will have a larger cover display and may include AOD.
  • The improved Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor will power both devices.
  • The Galaxy Watch 6 series, which will feature a modern CPU upgrade, may also be unveiled.

The Ultimate Guide to Discord Nitro: Free Trial, Features, and Benefits

By
Sriram
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0
Discord Nitro Guide

Introduction

Discord, a popular communication platform, has grown exponentially in recent years, becoming a hub for gamers, content creators, and communities. A premium subscription service called Discord Nitro enhances the overall experience, offering many features and benefits. In this article, we will dive deep into the world of Discord Nitro, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of its features, benefits, and how to get started.

Also Read: How to Create and Customize Your Discord Account?

Discord Nitro

What is Discord Nitro?

Discord Nitro is a subscription-based service that unlocks various exclusive features and enhancements, allowing users to maximize their Discord experience. There are two subscription types: Discord Nitro and Discord Nitro Classic. The primary difference between them is the availability of server boosting with the standard Discord Nitro subscription.

Discord Nitro comes with a monthly price of $9.99, while Discord Nitro Classic is available for $4.99 monthly. Both subscriptions offer a discounted annual plan.

Features of Discord Nitro

Discord Nitro Plans

Custom Emojis

  • Utilize custom emojis from any server you have joined.
  • Share custom emojis across servers for a personalized touch.
  • Enjoy animated emojis for more expressive conversations.

Enhanced Profile Customization

  • Show off your support for Discord with unique profile badges.
  • Stand out by customizing your Discord tag with a unique number.
  • Express yourself with animated avatars.

Increased File Upload Size

  • Non-Nitro users can upload files up to 8 MB, while Nitro users enjoy a 100 MB limit.
  • Share high-quality images, videos, and documents without the hassle.

Improved Screen Sharing Quality

  • Nitro subscribers can screen share at 1080p resolution and 60 FPS.
  • Experience smoother and clearer streaming sessions.

Server Boosting

  • Support your favorite servers by boosting them.
  • Unlock additional server features and enhancements at different boost levels.

Discord Nitro Benefits

  • Personalize your user experience with profile customization and custom emojis.
  • Enhance server capabilities with server boosting.
  • Support Discord’s ongoing development and improvements.

How to Get Discord Nitro for Free

Discord Nitro Benefits

Free Nitro Trials

  • Occasionally, Discord offers Nitro free trials to new subscribers.
  • Keep an eye on Discord’s official channels for announcements.
  • Note that trials may have restrictions and limitations.

Free Nitro Giveaways

  • Participate in giveaways hosted by trusted community members or partners.
  • Always verify the legitimacy of the giveaway source to avoid scams.

Discord Nitro Deals and Sales

  • Discord occasionally offers promotional deals, such as Discord Nitro free 3 months.
  • Stay updated on seasonal events and sales to get the best Discord Nitro deals.

Also Read: Top 5 Discord Music Bots to Your Server!

Buying Discord Nitro: Price and Payment Options

  • Monthly cost: $9.99 for Nitro and $4.99 for Nitro Classic.
  • Annual plans available with discounts.
  • Discord accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal.
  • Always purchase Nitro from official sources to avoid scams and secure cheap Discord Nitro deals.

How to Get Started with Discord Nitro

  1. Upgrade your Discord account to Nitro or Nitro Classic.
  2. Customize your profile, including avatar, tag, and badges.
  3. Explore and utilize Nitro-exclusive features.
  4. Boost your favorite servers to unlock additional perks and enhancements.

Conclusion

Discord Nitro offers a wide range of features and benefits that enhance your experience on the platform. From custom emojis and profile customization to server boosting and increased file upload limits, Nitro users can enjoy an improved and personalized Discord experience. With various options to access Discord Nitro for free or at a discounted rate, there has never been a better time to try it out.

By upgrading to Discord Nitro, you elevate your user experience and contribute to the platform’s ongoing development and improvements. We hope this guide helps you start with Discord Nitro, paving the way for an even more enjoyable and immersive experience on Discord.

Nothing Phone (2): The Next-Generation Smartphone to Watch Out For This Summer!

By
Shanmugam
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0

Last year, the Nothing Phone (1) was released as the first smartphone from Carl Pei’s firm, and it instantly received a lot of attention. Surprisingly, the handset managed to live up to expectations to a large part, demonstrating that the excitement wasn’t all for show. Now, the company has begun to tease the release of its next-generation model, the Nothing Phone (2), and has even announced a launch date, revealing exciting details for tech enthusiasts.

According to a recent company release, the Phone (2) will be available this summer. Although no specific date has been given, it has been confirmed that the smartphone will be available for purchase in the United States. Furthermore, an animated video shared by the company appears to imply that the upcoming smartphone, like its predecessor, will have lights on the back.

While there isn’t much information about the Phone (2) right now, a Qualcomm executive recently revealed that it will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset, a significant upgrade over the Snapdragon 778G+ SoC found in the Phone (1). The gadget is also expected to have an AMOLED screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz and an FHD+ resolution, as well as Android 13 based on Nothing OS.

The Phone (2) is expected to include 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage. According to reports, it will also include a 5,000mAh battery, albeit the rapid charging capabilities are unknown. The Phone (2), like its predecessor, is expected to offer wireless charging, making it a must-have device for customers who favor convenience and efficiency in their cell phones.

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