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jeudi 22 septembre 2022

The Xbox September update brings a library revamp for consoles

Microsoft recently announced the new Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. The controller went on sale for $129.99 on the Microsoft Store yesterday and, along with it, the company rolled out a fresh update for the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles.

The September update for the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One brings a revamp for the Full library view in the My games and apps section. The redesigned UI aims to streamline access to games in your library by giving access to all the games you own and any games you have access to with Xbox subscriptions in the All games tab. This includes games part of Xbox Game Pass, EA Access, and claimed Games with Gold. In addition, the updated UI gives you easy access to catalogs of your subscriptions, editorial content, and all your apps.

Xbox Full library option screenshot showing revamped UI.xbox

Along with the Full library revamp, the Xbox September update brings a new option that lets you select different default installation locations for your games and apps on the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.

Xbox Change installation locations screenshot.

You’ll find the new option, called Change installation locations, in the settings for storage devices if you have external drivers or a storage expansion card attached to your console. The new setting will let you select a specific drive as an installation location. In addition, it includes a Let Xbox decide option that will automatically install games and apps on the fastest drive with available space.

In addition to the console changes, the Xbox September update brings a new feature to the Xbox Game Bar on Windows PCs that will help you generate a shareable link for all captures. To use this feature, open the Xbox Game Bar on your PC using the Windows+G keyboard shortcut, then click the new Copy link button at the bottom of any selected game capture.


Source: Xbox Wire

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The Pixel Watch might offer a Google Photos watch face integration

At its upcoming hardware announcement event, Google will unveil its flagship Pixel 7 series and the highly-anticipated Pixel Watch. In the days leading up to the launch leaks and rumors about the upcoming devices have started picking up pace, and we recently learned that the Pixel Watch could be more expensive the recenlty-announced Apple Watch SE 2. Now, a teardown of the latest Google Photos update has revealed that Google’s first smartwatch might come with a new watch face integration with the app.

A teardown of Google Photos v6.8 for Android conducted by the folks at 9to5Google has revealed new strings pointing at a watch face integration, likely for the upcoming Pixel Watch. The strings state that the integration will let users “Select watch face photos,” in the Google Photos app.

The upcoming feature will reportedly let users select multiple photos to use as watch faces and the watch will cycle through the selected images during the course of the day. However, Google Photos will have a maximum limit on the number of photos that can be added as a watch face background.

Although the strings don’t explicitly state that the upcoming Google Photos watch face integration is for the Pixel Watch, the timing suggests that Google could debut the feature with its first smartwatch and extend it to other Wear OS 3 watches in the future. Currently, we don’t know what the UI for this integration would look like. But we expect Google to share more details at its hardware launch event early next month.

It’s worth noting that Google Photos already offers a similar integration with the Galaxy Wearable app, which lets users set a photo as a watch face background on supported Galaxy smartwatches. However, the Galaxy Wearable integration only lets you select one photo at a time.

Are you looking forward to the Pixel Watch? What about it has you most excited? Let us know in the comments section below.


Via: 9to5Google

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Instagram’s upcoming ‘Nudity protection’ feature will automatically cover objectionable photos in chats

Instagram is testing a new feature that will automatically cover up unsolicited nudes in your DMs. The feature, aptly named Nudity protection, is currently in development, but it should roll out to users in the coming weeks.

First spotted by app developer and reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, Instagram’s Nudity protection feature will use on-device technology to cover up “photos that may contain nudity in chats.” A screenshot of the in-development feature confirms that Instagram will not have access to the photos. Furthermore, the screenshot reveals that objectionable images will remain covered unless the user chooses to view them.

In a statement to The Verge, Instagram’s parent Meta has confirmed the feature’s existence and revealed that it is in the early stages of development. The company has also stated that it will be an opt-in feature, and Instagram won’t enable it by default on rollout.

To address privacy concerns arising from Instagram’s ability to analyze photos in your DMs, Meta spokesperson Liz Fernandez said, “We’re working closely with experts to ensure these new features preserve people’s privacy, while giving them control over the messages they receive.” The company reiterated that the feature wouldn’t allow Instagram or Meta to view the actual messages or share them with third parties.

Currently, we don’t have any further information about Instagram’s Nudity protection feature. Meta plans to share additional details in the next few weeks as the feature goes into testing.

Speaking of new Instagram features in testing, the social media platform is also working on a new monetization tool for its creators called ‘Gifts.’ It will let users send two types of gifts to creators, along with a personalized message.


Via: The Verge

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Pixel Buds Pro to get a five-band equalizer and volume balancing support soon

Google’s flagship TWS earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro, will soon get two new features via a software update — a five-band equalizer and volume balancing. While Google hasn’t shared any details about these upcoming features, an APK teardown of version 1.0.474476083 of the Pixel Buds app has revealed some information.

New strings of code spotted in the latest Pixel Buds app update (via 9to5Google) suggest that the upcoming five-band equalizer for the Pixel Buds Pro will give users the option to adjust five different bands of sound, namely Low Bass, Bass, Mid, Treble, and Upper Treble. Each band will get a dedicated horizontal slider in the Pixel Buds app, allowing users to customize the sound profile to their liking.

In addition to custom equalizer adjustments, the Pixel Buds app will give users access to seven presets, including Balanced, Clarity, Default, Heavy bass, Last saved, Light bass, and Vocal Boost. These presets will let users adjust the sound profile of the Pixel Buds Pro with just a tap.

Furthermore, the latest Pixel Buds app update reveals that Google is also working on a new Volume Balancing feature for the Pixel Buds Pro. This feature will appear as a volume-balance slider in the app, which will let users play audio at a slightly different volume from each earbud.

Since some Android OEMs already offer a similar volume balance feature on their custom Android skins, the Pixel Buds app also includes an alert stating that the “Volume balance feature may conflict with other volume balance settings set on other devices.”

Currently, these features are in development and are not live in the latest version of the Pixel Buds app. However, the five-band equalizer should roll out to users in the coming weeks. The volume balance feature could roll out alongside the equalizer, but we don’t have any confirmation from Google regarding the same.


Via: 9to5Google

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mercredi 21 septembre 2022

Does the Apple iPhone 14 series have a headphone jack?

Apple revealed the iPhone 14 series during its Far Out event. This time around, the company has notably distinguished between the regular and Pro models. It’s no longer just an insignificant camera difference. Regular models retain most of their predecessors’ specifications (excluding the Mini/Plus variant switch). Meanwhile the Pro models of 2022 get an upgraded 48MP Wide camera sensor, Always-On Display support, the Dynamic Island, a faster A16 Bionic chip, and more. If you plan to buy an iPhone 14, you must be wondering — does it have a headphone jack? The short answer is no, and if you’re interested in more details, read along.

Headphone jack remains missing on the iPhone 14 series

Before we go into the iPhone 14 specifics, let’s explain what a headphone jack is. This port allows users to plug a wired headset into a certain device. Most of the mainstream wired earphones and headphones are compatible with the 3.5mm jack. As you might know, wired earbuds are typically more affordable than wireless ones. That’s not to mention their lack of yet another battery to regularly charge. Meanwhile, wireless models are more convenient to use, despite them not supporting the higher-quality audio formats. So can you plug wired headsets into an iPhone 14?

As I’ve stated earlier, 2022’s iPhone models differ substantially when comparing the regular and Pro variants. However, Apple has decided to keep the headphone jack availability uniform across the entire lineup. So whether you buy a regular iPhone 14 or a Pro one, you’ll get the same headphone jack treatment. Unfortunately for some, Apple doesn’t include a headphone jack on these models. So you will either have to use a Lightning-to-3.5mm jack adapter or depend on wireless solutions to listen through earphones.

Don’t forget to grab an iPhone 14 case on your way out! It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

    Apple iPhone 14
    The iPhone 14 is a minor upgrade that introduces camera improvements, SOS through satellite support, and more. It packs 2021's A15 Bionic chip and runs iOS 16.
    Apple iPhone 14 Pro
    The iPhone 14 Pro includes the Dynamic Island, Always-On Dsiaply feature, and an upgraded 48MP Wide camera. It packs 2022's A16 Bionic chip and runs iOS 16.
    SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Style Case (Sponsored)
    This case offers three different color options to choose from, in addition to a minimalistic, slim build.

Is the lack of a headphones jack on the iPhone 14 a dealbreaker for you? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments section below.

The post Does the Apple iPhone 14 series have a headphone jack? appeared first on XDA.



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These are the best Samsung Galaxy S21 cases you can buy in 2022

The Galaxy S21 series comes with a lot of generational improvements while also refining the rough edges of the S20 line. The standard Galaxy S21, while being cheaper, is no exception, featuring a 6.2-inch 120Hz display, 4,000mAh battery, and a Snapdragon 888 SoC (or Exynos 2100 in the international markets). All of this is encased in a relatively small package. If you’ve spent a significant sum buying this Samsung flagship, you’ll need a case to protect it from day-to-day mishaps. To help you pick the right case, we’ve selected some of the best Galaxy S21 cases currently available on the market. We’ve created different categories of cases to help you pick the right one, so be sure to explore all the options.

This article is only for the standard Samsung Galaxy S21. Check out our Galaxy S21 Plus cases and Galaxy S21 Ultra case round-ups for those phones.

Navigate this article:

Official Samsung cases

Samsung makes some of the best cases for its Galaxy S series devices which is why we’ve added them front and center for you to check out. They tend to be a little expensive compared to other third-party options but they’re reliable and will potentially last you for a very long time.

    Samsung Galaxy S21 Official Silicone Cover

    The official silicone case

    You can't go wrong with Samsung's official cases. They're sold in plenty of color choices to complement your phone's color scheme and provide basic protection against drops. They also make the camera bump flush!
    Samsung Galaxy S21 Official Clear Cover

    Crystal-clear all day

    Samsung's official clear case is the most barebones one out of Samsung's official lineup of accessories, but it provides strong protection while also not adding that much bulk in your pocket.
    Samsung Galaxy S21 Flip cover

    Official Flip cover

    Samsung's official Flip cover for the Galaxy S21 is perfect for those who want full 360-degree protection for their device. The cutout on the front lets you do simple tasks such as answering the calls, controlling the music, and more.
    Official Rugged case
    The official rugged from Samsung is made out of hard plastic to protect the device. It also comes with a kickstand at the back that supports 60-degrees or 45-degree viewing angles.

Clear cases for the Galaxy S21

Picked up the Galaxy S21 in your favorite color and don’t want to hide it with a case? Well, you can grab one of these clear cases to add some basic protection while showing off the beautiful colors and finishes.

    OtterBox Prefix Series

    Clear and strong

    OtterBox cases are known for providing top-notch protection. This protection isn't just limited to rugged cases; even clear cases, like the Prefix Series, can safeguard your phone from drops and scratches. In addition, the Prefix Series is very slim.
    Spigen Ultra Hybrid

    Crystal clear

    Spigen's Ultra Hybrid case comes with a TPU bumper and PC back for the best protection. It's also a clear case with which you can show off the color of your Galaxy S21.
    ESR Clear Case with Kickstand for Galaxy S21

    A cheap, clear case with a kickstand

    This case from ESR adds a kickstand to the classic clear, transparent case design (also available as a translucent black option) and also manages to be pretty cheap compared to other official options that also have a kickstand.

Thin and basic cases

Thin cases are perfect for those who don’t want to add a lot of bulk to their devices. They may not offer the best protection out of all the cases in this collection, but they also won’t make the device bulky.

    Spigen Thin fit

    Thinnest cases around

    Spigen's Thin Fit cases has been around for quite sometime now and it's one of the thinnest cases you can buy the Galaxy S21.
    Cloudvalley slim case

    Camera lens protection

    This basic case from Cloudvalley for the Galaxy S21 is one of the thinnest cases out there. The best thing about this particular case is that it comes with camera lens protection too.
    Spigen Liquid Air Armor

    Thin case with military-grade protection

    The Spigen Liquid Air Armor uses air cushion technology to offer military-grade protection to the Galaxy S21. It also comes with an anti-slip matte finish at the back for added grip.
    Speck Presidio 2 Grip

    For better handling

    The Speck Presidio 2 Grip case comes with no-slip grips for secure handling of the smartphone. The case also offers up to 13-foot drop protection, and is coated with anti-microbial material to reduce bacteria growth. Moreover, there are raised edges on the case to safeguard the phone's screen.
    LifeProof Wake

    Made with 85% ocean-based plastic

    The LifeProof Wake case for the Galaxy S21 champions sustainability and uses over 85% ocean-based recycled plastic. It also comes with recyclable packaging. In addition, the case features a sculpted wave pattern that looks interesting and helps with the grip.
    Incipio Organicore

    Plant-based protection

    Care for your planet? Ditch plastic cases and pick this Incipio case that uses 100% compostable plant-based material. Environmentally friendly material’s presence doesn’t mean the case isn't strong. It can withstand up to 8 feet drops. The case also has raised edges to safeguard the screen.
    Caseology Vault S21 Case

    Full body protection on the cheap

    This Samsung Galaxy S21 case by Caseology provides a full-body layer of shockproof TPU to protect your device, and comes pretty cheap compared to most options.
    Weycolor Silicone Case for Galaxy S21

    Soft silicone option

    The Weycolor Silicone Case is a soft silicone case that provides full coverage for your phone and comes in various color options to help you stand out from the crowd.

Galaxy S21 rugged cases

The regular silicone and thin cases aren’t enough to protect your device if you have an active lifestyle. We recommend picking one of the rugged cases mentioned below instead:

    SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro Series

    Complete protection

    The SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro Series for Galaxy S21 provides enhanced protection from everyday accidents. Moreover, it has a textured grip, and packs a kickstand as well as a detachable rotating holster.

    Promoted

    UAG Plasma Protective Cover

    Impact protection

    UAG is known for its rugged cases, so you can’t go wrong with this protective cover from the company. The cover promises military-grade impact protection in a slim form factor. Moreover, it's made from polycarbonate, and comes with raised edges.
    Spigen Rugged Armor

    Simple and sturdy

    In addition to the Tough Armor case, Spigen also sells this Rugged Armor case for the S21. It looks exciting and features textured sides for a better grip. In addition, the case uses Air Cushion technology for shock absorption.
    Poetic Guardian Case

    The Poetic Guardian Case offers full body protection, thanks to a built-in screen protector. It’s also drop-tested to military-grade standards and features a scratch-proof clear back. In addition, you can buy the case in four exciting colors.
    OtterBox Commuter Series

    Rugged protection, slim profile

    The OtterBox Commuter Series case is perfect if you're looking to add top-notch protection to your phone without too much bulk. It provides more than military-grade protection and has an anti-microbial coating.
    Crave Dual Guard

    Dual-layer design

    The Crave Dual Guard case features a dual-layer design that includes a flexible TPU layer and a hard polycarbonate layer to provide enhanced protection to your phone. It also comes in six color options, so you have plenty of choices.

Kickstand cases

Kickstand cases are the ones that let you set up your phone on a table or any flat surface so that you can use it hands-free. There are a bunch of kickstand cases on the market but these are the ones that we think are worth considering:

    Spigen Tough Armor

    With the kickstand

    Spigen is well-known for its quality smartphone cases and this case is no different. It's made of TPU and polycarbonate for enhanced protection and comes with a kickstand as well. Moreover, the case is certified for military-grade protection.
    ESR Clear Case with Kickstand for Galaxy S21

    A cheap, clear case with a kickstand

    This case from ESR adds a kickstand to the classic clear, transparent case design (also available as a translucent black option) and also manages to be pretty cheap compared to other official options that also have a kickstand.
    TORRAS MoonClimber kickstand case

    3 ways stand

    The TORRAS MoonClimber is an excellent clear case for the Galaxy S21 which also doubles up as a kickstand case. It lets your phone stand in three different ways, making it more versatile than a lot of other kickstand cases.

Wallet cases

Most wallet cases add a significant amount of bulk to your device but they also protect your phone and let you throw in some credit cards and cash.

    Spigen Slim Armor CS

    Slim case to store cards

    The Spigen Slim armor isn't a full-fledged wallet case like some other options mentioned in this list. However, it comes with enough space to let you store two credit cards which is enough for a lot of people.
    TUCCH wallet case

    360 protection with kickstand

    The TUCCH wallet is one of the best cases you can buy for the Galaxy S21 right now. Not only does it offer full 360-degree protection to your device, but it also doubles up as a nice kickstand case.
    Arae Case S21 Wallet Case

    Hold it All

    Wallet cases are great, and Arae Case has made one for the Galaxy S21. Store all of your cards with your phone, and you can use the case as a prop to keep your smartphone standing up too. Just be sure to apply a screen protector so your cards don't scratch your screen.
    SnakeHive Vintage Wallet

    The SnakeHive Vintage Wallet is a good leather folio-type case for the Galaxy S21. It includes slots to keep up to three cards and cash. In addition, the case can act as a kickstand when needed. Finally, you can buy it in seven exciting colors.
    Tech21 EvoWallet

    Use as a kickstand

    The tech21 EvoWallet case covers both the front and back of your Galaxy S21 to protect it from all sides. It also packs two card pockets so you can carry your IDs or plastic money in the case itself. In addition, the case can turn into a kickstand for easier media consumption.
    SnakeHive Vintage Wallet

    Genuine leather

    The SnakeHive Vintage Wallet is a good leather folio-type case for the Galaxy S21. It includes slots to keep up to three cards and cash. In addition, the case can act as a kickstand when needed. Finally, you can buy it in seven exciting colors.

Stylish cases

The stylish cases mentioned in this collection are the ones that are available in fun colors and finish, and add a touch of style to your smartphone. The Galaxy S21 is already a pretty-looking case but these stylish cases make them look even better.

    i-Blason Cosmo Series

    Stand out

    The i-Blason Cosmo Series case looks quite interesting and its back cover will certainly turn heads. The case is made of TPU for enhanced protection, and has raised edges to safeguard your phone’s front.

    Promoted

    Casetego Galaxy S21 Case

    Beautiful Protection

    Want good protection but also want your S21 to look good? Grab this triple-layer case from Casetego. It has a nice looking floral pattern on the back, and it'll still protect your smartphone from shocks and falls.
    Case-Mate Case

    Colorful

    If you are looking for something colorful and interesting, this Case-Mate cover comes in eight exciting designs and patterns. The case can also withstand drops from up to 10 feet and includes an anti-microbial coating to resistant the growth of bacteria and other microbial life.
    Loheckle designer case
    If you don't mind rocking a bold and bulky case for your phone, then this is one of the best designer cases you can buy for the Galaxy S21. It comes with a ring stand holder and even a lanyard.

Our round-up of the best Galaxy S21 cases, as you can see, consists of a number of cases across various price points. You’ll find everything from Samsung’s official options to cases from known third-party case makers such as UAG and Spigen. We have made sure to include our best picks for every type of case, so there are plenty of options.

If you are looking for one specific recommendation for each type of case, we’ll recommend going for Spigen Rugged Armor if you want top-notch protection. The official Samsung Clear Cover is great to show off the phone’s design and color. SUPCASE UB Pro is perfect for kickstand lovers, and you’ll find the SnakeHive Vintage Wallet enticing if you need a leather or wallet case. Finally, Case-Mate case has several colorful designs.

    Samsung Galaxy S21
    The Galaxy S21 is the starting point of Samsung's 2021 flagship lineup, packing in a top-of-the-line SoC, great display, and a 4,000mAh battery.

Which case are you planning to buy for your Galaxy S21? Let us know in the comments section. Meanwhile, we have also selected the best fast chargers for the Galaxy S21 if you want to get the top charging speed on your phone.

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Apple Fitness Plus doesn’t require a Watch on iOS 16.1 beta 2

Apple released iOS 16 to the public earlier this month. Since then, the company has been working on the upcoming minor release. That’s to smoothen out glitches and make tweaks based on mass user feedback. Yesterday, the Cupertino firm seeded iOS 16.1 beta 2 to registered developers. While beta 1 included more exciting changes, beta 2 certainly includes a welcome addition. Users on the latest beta build can subscribe to and use Apple Fitness Plus without needing a Watch. This makes the paid service accessible to more users — particularly ones not interested in an Apple Watch.

Apple mentioned during its Far Out event that Watch-less iPhone users would be able to subscribe to Fitness Plus later this fall. This promise has now come to fruition in iOS 16.1 beta 2. The main iOS 16.0 release already introduces the Fitness app to those who don’t use an Apple Watch. Of course, the fitness tracking features in it are limited to what your iPhone can collect. If you’re running the latest beta, you can now visit the Fitness Plus tab in the dedicated app to start your subscription.

Apple Fitness Plus costs $9.99 per month in the U.S. It’s available in a handful of countries, and the company uploads new workout videos on a regular basis. Watch users get the advantage of having workout metric displayed during the session. These include the live heart rate and other relevant data. Those who subscribe without pairing an Apple Watch will obviously miss out on certain metrics.

Will you be subscribing to Apple Fitness Plus without a Watch? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments section below.

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