Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Samsung Creates Solution to Minimize Ad Spam in Applications on Galaxy Devices

Samsung is said to be developing a feature within its One UI settings aimed at easing user frustrations with apps that display an abundance of advertisements. A revelation from the initial trials for One UI 8.5 was shared by X tipster Tarun Vats, who indicates that Samsung is introducing an “excessive ads” option. Vats mentions that One UI 8.5 has indicated the presence of a new setting labeled “Block apps with excessive ads” in the Device Care section. By default, this feature provides “basic blocking,” meaning that “Apps recognized by Samsung as sending frequent ads will be blocked whenever they are detected on your device.”

This blocking mechanism appears to involve your Galaxy device putting the specified app into deep sleep mode, halting all activities. Vats encountered an additional option, currently displayed as toggleable, called “Intelligent blocking.” If activated, it seems your Galaxy device would utilize its software to “analyze” a user’s notifications to identify if they are ads and obstruct them if the alerts become excessively frequent. There is a possibility that this may rely on Galaxy AI to comprehend the context of an ad, as the footnote mentions, “this determination may not be precise.”

There’s optimism surrounding this feature, although it seems further testing is necessary to ascertain its scope, as Vats remarked in the comments. The code discovery indicates this ad-spam protection will be accessible on all Galaxy devices, not solely on its smartphones. However, evaluation is needed to confirm if this feature functions “systemwide.”

Excitement surrounds One UI 8.5, with Samsung having been internally assessing the new software for several months now. More significantly, a recent finding suggests the company might introduce “Super Fast Wireless Charging” for the Galaxy S26 via One UI 8.5. The S26 Ultra could feature 25W wireless charging capabilities, while the other two models (S26, S26 Plus) may support 20W. Speculation suggests that this enhancement for the Ultra could increase its charging speed by approximately 40%, but this remains an estimation for the time being.

Additionally, shortly afterward, an alleged wallpaper leak for the S26 series emerged. There are speculations that the series could be released in Mint, Coral, Black, Violet, Silver, and Grey.

We’ve transitioned from discussions about a possible Beta Program to reports of its supposed delay, but now those rumors have resurfaced, indicating it could commence in December. Reports from X suggest Samsung might be targeting a One UI 8.5 beta launch in early December as part of a Phase 1 plan. If accurate, the beta could kick off on December 8 for users in the U.S., U.K., and Germany, before moving into Phase 2 on December 22 for users in India and Poland.

A third phase is rumored to begin in early January, as Samsung aims to finalize details for its anticipated Galaxy S26 launch in February.

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“Nothing Phone 3a Gets Android 16 Update, Showcasing Prompt Support for Affordable Devices”

Nothing has just equipped its latest budget smartphones with their finest software to date.

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Nothing is rolling out the stable update for Phone 3a series, featuring Android 16 alongside Nothing OS 4.0, marking a significant boost in performance and stability.
  • This update enhances system animations, refines background task management, and improves battery efficiency.
  • An updated AI Usage Dashboard within Essential Space now precisely monitors LLM activity, indicating when AI functionalities are active.

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“Unboxing and Hands-On Video of the Galaxy Z TriFold Unveils Features and Contents”

The Galaxy Z TriFold has made its debut, showcasing its folding mechanism, software functionality, and additional features.

(Image credit: Samsung)

Key points to note

  • The Galaxy Z TriFold by Samsung has been officially announced, with a preliminary hands-on video demonstrating its capabilities.
  • This foldable device is packaged in a sizable box that includes a 45 W charger, a slim case, a USB-C cable, and the device in its unfolded state.
  • The Z TriFold boasts a 10.1-inch screen, weighs 309 grams, features a U-shaped fold design, and supports standalone Samsung DeX functionality.

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Android Brings Back Enhanced QR Scanner Interface Following Initial Removal

The updated UI offers faster access to Flash, file selector, and feedback features.

(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google is reinstating the revamped Android QR scanner UI after a brief pause in the rollout.
  • The updated QR scanner is available through Google Play Services 25.46.32, though numerous users have yet to receive it.
  • The refreshed UI consolidates flash, file selection, and feedback tools into a pill-shaped interface for improved single-handed operation.

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Upcoming One UI 8 Watch Update for Users of Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro

Here’s what you can anticipate from this update.

What you should be aware of:
– One UI 8 Watch was introduced with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 series and has since expanded to the Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 7 families.
– The Galaxy Watch 5 series is the next recipient, as the One UI 8 Watch beta initiative concluded on Dec. 1 for those devices.
– The public rollout of One UI 8 Watch for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is expected shortly.

Wear OS 6 introduced numerous new capabilities and enhanced performance to smartwatches this summer, yet some older Samsung watches are still awaiting the upgrade. One UI 8 Watch initially appeared on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 series and has since made its way to Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch 6. According to a report from SamMobile, it seems that One UI 8 Watch will soon be available for even older Samsung Galaxy Watch models.

A few months back, Samsung initiated a beta program in the U.S. and Korea for testing One UI 8 Watch on the Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. This beta program has just wrapped up as of Dec. 1, based on discussions in Samsung’s community forums. This indicates that the Wear OS 6-based update is very close to being available for the Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.

For instance, owners of Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic began receiving the One UI 8 Watch update merely hours after the conclusion of the beta program, as detailed in SamMobile’s report. Typically, the updates are released regionally, with varying schedules for different models. Participants in the One UI 8 Watch beta will automatically be upgraded to the public release version.

If Samsung’s typical release trend remains consistent, users of Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro can look forward to the stable One UI 8 Watch update rolling out in the next few days or weeks, following the end of the beta program.

One UI 8 Watch represents a significant upgrade that incorporates all of Google’s Wear OS 6 enhancements alongside Samsung exclusives. Bedtime Guidance, Antioxidant Index, and the Now Bar are among the key new features. Additionally, Samsung’s Running Coach—an AI-driven running analysis tool that was initially introduced on newer watches—will also be available for older models.

When the update becomes available for your watch model, you can install it by going to Watch settings > Watch software update > Download and install.

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Google Unveils Conversational AI Feature for Mobile Search

Google Search has now been transformed into a fluid AI chat experience on mobile in a new experiment.

(Image credit: Google)

Essential Information

  • Google is evaluating a more fluid transition from AI Overviews to AI Mode, allowing users to enter an AI chat with just one tap.
  • This new process maintains the user within the search results while facilitating more detailed follow-up inquiries without initiating a new search.
  • The trial is being rolled out for Search on mobile worldwide.
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Filtered Photos Uncover Subtle Aesthetic Modifications in Samsung Galaxy Buds 4

Samsung seems to be addressing its prior issues with a more refined Galaxy Buds 4 redesign.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential Information

  • Samsung appears to be moving away from the controversial stem-and-light design of the Galaxy Buds 3, with rumors indicating a more sophisticated design for the Buds 4.
  • Assets from One UI 8.5 firmware show a sleeker, AirPods-like stem that reflects Samsung’s departure from its well-known bean-shaped aesthetic.
  • The Buds 4 feature a semi-open design with outward-facing microphones integrated into a compact stem, foregoing the silicone ear tips that were present on the Buds 4 Pro in prior leaks.

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Xiaomi 17 Ultra Rumors Indicate Major Improvements in Photography

The Chinese OEM, Xiaomi, is said to be making progress in improving mobile photography with its forthcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra. Leaks indicate that the device might incorporate Leica-branded lenses aimed at addressing prevalent issues like chromatic aberration and unwanted reflections. These enhancements are intended to elevate photo quality, especially in high-brightness conditions, by minimizing optical distortions and ensuring high-definition, high-fidelity images.

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is speculated to feature four lenses, potentially including three 50MP cameras alongside a 200MP lens, representing a notable upgrade from earlier models. These hardware improvements are anticipated to be paired with software enhancements, although the main emphasis is on the capabilities of the lenses.

Besides camera enhancements, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra could also enable satellite connectivity, but this feature may be restricted to the Chinese version. The Xiaomi 17 series, launched in September, unveiled the “Dynamic Back Display,” offering a distinctive element to its design.

In summary, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is set to deliver considerable advancements in mobile photography, concentrating on minimizing common challenges and enhancing image quality through both hardware and software developments.

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Details Regarding Motorola’s Anticipated Swarovski Crystal Edge 70

Be cautious, these gems could dazzle you.

(Image credit: Motorola Poland)

Essential information

  • A recent revelation suggests that Motorola is gearing up for another partnership with Swarovski for its Edge 70.
  • The gadget was speculated to host around 14 crystals on its quilted rear, in addition to a unique Pantone “Cloud Dancer” Color of the Year for 2026.
  • Motorola has unveiled new Pantone hues for the upcoming year on two occasions in December; nonetheless, its most recent Swarovski collaboration occurred in August with the Razr 2025 and Buds Loop.

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Feature Phone for Children: Device Without Social Media

HMD Global and Xplora have joined forces to develop the XploraOne, a smartphone tailored specifically for kids, emphasizing safety and parental oversight while removing social media access. This innovative device seeks to offer a well-rounded solution for parents worried about their children’s unmoderated internet use. The XploraOne comes equipped with vital features such as messaging, calling, location tracking, and a straightforward camera, devoid of the interruptions caused by games or app stores. Parents have the ability to manage contacts, approve schedule alterations, set calling limitations, review messages, and access their child’s photo gallery remotely, ensuring a secure and regulated setting for young users. Although the pricing details remain unverified, it is anticipated to be in line with Xplora’s range of wearables. This endeavor enhances the existing collaboration between HMD and Xplora, succeeding the HMD Fusion X1, which launched robust parental control features. The XploraOne presents a promising alternative for parents in search of a kid-friendly phone that does not provide full internet access.

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