Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 Update Improves Image Editing Capabilities

Object Eraser is Integrating with Generative Edit in One UI 8.5

Samsung is preparing to enhance photo editing in its One UI 8.5 update by combining two of its AI-driven tools, Object Eraser and Generative Edit, into a unified feature. This combination aims to refine the photo editing experience, allowing users to eliminate unwanted elements and seamlessly fill in backgrounds without alternating between different tools.

Leaked screen recordings, shared by @tarunvats33, demonstrate a more user-friendly workflow that boosts the speed and simplicity of AI photo editing. Currently, Object Eraser and Generative Edit function as distinct features within Samsung’s photo editor. Object Eraser enables users to manually select and erase distractions, while Generative Edit employs AI to fill in missing sections or reposition subjects realistically.

With the forthcoming update, users will gain access to erasing, filling, and reshaping tools directly within Generative Edit. This allows actions like removing an intruding photobomber to be accomplished in a single step, with the tool smartly filling in the background.

This modification is part of Samsung’s initiatives to create more integrated and user-centric photo editing tools. The new feature is anticipated to launch with the One UI 8.5 update, likely debuting alongside the Galaxy S26 series early next year. However, Galaxy S25 owners might experience delays in accessing the beta version due to alterations in Samsung’s product lineup.

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Aspects to Contemplate When Acquiring the Samsung Galaxy XR

It’s an exhilarating beginning for a new age of XR devices, yet even at half the cost of Apple Vision Pro, it’s still a costly investment.

The news since the launch of the Galaxy XR has been quite evident. Samsung’s inaugural Android XR headset is amazing and is being celebrated as the more budget-friendly alternative to the Apple Vision Pro that we’ve been seeking. But does that imply it’s suitable for you?

That inquiry wholly depends on your intended use, of course! Much like the Apple Vision Pro, both Samsung and Google have suggested that the Galaxy XR caters to entertainment and productivity, with a sprinkling of gaming included.

This suggests that if you aim to work using your headset and desire an endless array of monitors around you at all times, the Samsung Galaxy XR is the optimal way to fulfill that aim. Likewise, if you often find yourself at home uninterested in what others are viewing or playing, the Galaxy XR is an excellent means to relax and enjoy or engage in whatever you choose without being ousted from the TV again.

Already leading the charge

Galaxy XR boasts the finest display ever in a VR headset, boasting an astounding 29 million pixels within a pair of micro-OLED panels. Fueled by the Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2 chipset, and since Android XR manages operations, every Android application on the Google Play Store functions seamlessly on the headset.

This ensures that any streaming service, productivity application, or truly any software can be accessed and utilized on the headset, alleviating the need to dramatically change your existing behaviors to dive into the Galaxy XR’s stunning immersive experiences.

Indeed, Galaxy XR stands as the sole VR headset featuring an official Netflix application, permitting you to enjoy the full quality of every series and film without the hassle of browser compatibility or side-loading.

Moreover, connecting the Galaxy XR to a PC wirelessly using the Virtual Desktop app is straightforward, or you can simply connect to a Galaxybook laptop via Samsung’s integrated software. Thus, you can work on your PC without straining your neck (how annoying it is to look down at a laptop for extended periods), and you also gain the advantage of multiple monitors, wherever you are.

This implies you can take your laptop and headset on your next business trip and still experience the comforts of working at home. It also means that lengthy flights can become opportunities to relax and enjoy a massive virtual theater in front of you rather than enduring a seat 15 inches from your face.

A VR gaming titan

VR gamers may find that the Meta Quest 3 is a more advantageous option for standalone VR games, with thousands of titles available via Meta’s store. However, PC VR gamers should give serious thought to the Galaxy XR, as it presently stands as the best wireless headset for PC gaming.

This is due to the Virtual Desktop app’s ability to transmit Galaxy XR’s face tracking, eye tracking, and hand tracking functions to your PC, enabling applications like VRChat to utilize this data to create more realistic avatars. No other wireless VR headset available possesses this capability and power, establishing it as the ultimate choice for wireless PC VR gaming fans.

Do you identify with any of these three categories? If yes, the Galaxy XR might be just the standalone headset you have been anticipating. It enhances everything exceptional about the Meta Quest Pro, providing Apple Vision Pro-like visual quality alongside a groundbreaking advancement in Android app support made possible by Android XR. It’s an extraordinary option for those seeking the pinnacle on the Android side of technology.

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Little Planet: The No-Cost Animal Crossing Virtual Reality Adventure

**Little Planet: A Fresh Chapter in Virtual Reality Social Life Simulation**

Little Planet is on the verge of transforming the social life simulation gaming landscape with its introduction on the Meta Quest platform. Inspired by cherished games such as Animal Crossing and The Little Prince, Little Planet provides a warm, immersive experience where players can gather over 4,000 items, gather resources, construct, and design their personal island utopia. After spending two years in early access, the game will be available for free starting October 30, 2025, and includes special incentives for those who supported it early on.

**What Makes Little Planet Unique?**

1. **Engaging Environment**: In contrast to former titles, Little Planet lets players engage with the items they’ve gathered. Whether it’s playing a piano or shooting hoops with pals, the game presents a lively and captivating setting.

2. **Virtual Pet System**: Players can now select from a range of virtual pets that join them on their journeys. These companions, spanning from whimsical creatures to charming capybaras, introduce an additional level of friendship to the gameplay.

3. **Multiplayer Options**: The newly established multiplayer lobby simplifies connecting with fellow players, partaking in seasonal activities, and enjoying various multiplayer experiences like scavenger hunts and fishing tournaments.

4. **Seasonal Changes**: The game world evolves with the seasons, presenting new locations and activities that ensure gameplay remains fresh and thrilling.

**Launch Information and Incentives**

The free-to-play launch of Little Planet includes a Founders Pack for those who supported early access, containing a year of “Little Planet Premium,” exclusive items, and a distinctive founder’s hoodie and name tag. New players can still buy the early access edition for $20 on October 29 to obtain these benefits.

**Final Thoughts**

With its interactive features, captivating multiplayer choices, and ongoing enhancements, Little Planet is set to become a favorite among enthusiasts of social life simulation games. Regardless of whether you’re an experienced player or new to the genre, Little Planet provides limitless avenues for creativity and connection in a lively virtual realm.

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Amazon Hints at Black Friday with 26% Price Cut on Bowers & Wilkins Headphones Amid Doubts

Only a few discounted units remain!

(Image credit: Bowers & Wilkins)

Audiophiles, celebrate: the Black Friday promotions are finally beginning to appear, and you might not have to wait long to grab a substantial discount on high-end noise-cancelling headphones. Weeks before the main sale weekend, Amazon is slashing 26% off the sophisticated Bowers & Wilkins PX8 headphones, reducing the price to $519.59 for a limited period. 

Bowers & Wilkins is recognized for crafting stylish, comfortable wireless headphones that satisfy both audiophiles and casual listeners, whether you are diving into classical music, metal, or an exciting video game. 

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One UI 8.5 Leak Uncovers Enhanced Camera Functionality to Elevate Photography for Galaxy Users

No more rushing to capture the ideal shot.

In the realm of smartphone photography, securing the perfect image frequently necessitates a combination of expertise, timing, and occasionally a stroke of luck. Nonetheless, with the forthcoming One UI 8.5 update, Samsung intends to streamline this experience by incorporating presets for Pro camera controls. This function is intended to elevate the photography potential of Galaxy devices, enabling users to save and swiftly retrieve their favored camera settings.

What you should know:

– One UI 8.5 is set to introduce presets for Pro camera controls, enhancing photography functionality.
– Users can exchange camera presets with friends through the Quick Share app for collaborative photography.
– Update specifics indicate adjustable settings for various camera features on Galaxy devices.

The leaked One UI 8.5 versions imply that Samsung is developing presets for its Pro camera controls. This implies that users can save configurations for ISO, aperture, white balance, and more, facilitating quick changes without manual adjustments. This feature is particularly advantageous for capturing difficult images such as the moon or a dazzling sunrise.

Samsung may also permit users to select specific lenses for implementing these presets, like wide, ultrawide, or telephoto. The presets will record values for various camera settings, including focus type, ISO, Kelvin value, manual color adjustment, shutter speed, white balance, focus length, and exposure.

Additionally, users will have the capability to share these presets with others using the Quick Share app, simplifying collaboration among groups of photographers to utilize identical settings.

While it remains uncertain which devices will benefit from this feature, it pledges to make professional photography more approachable across Galaxy devices.

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Google Play Enforces Age Verification for Downloading Certain Applications

Google is introducing new age verification measures in the Play Store that could prevent app downloads without age confirmation.

**Important points to consider:**
– Google is implementing age verification on the Play Store, mandating users to confirm they are 18 or older.
– Age verification can be completed using an ID, selfie, credit card, or a third-party service.
– Some users have expressed worries regarding data privacy and have reported being unable to access their accounts post-verification.

Recently, Google has been using AI for age verification across multiple services, and now the company has allegedly begun to deploy the age verification feature for the Google Play Store, necessitating users to demonstrate they are at least 18 years old.

Just a few months after YouTube started requiring users to verify their ages, Google seems to be following suit with the Play Store. As noted by Artem Russakovskii on X, Google has commenced the rollout of age verification checks for the Play Store.

Russakovskii indicated that Google Play will restrict downloads of “many apps” until age verification is completed. Google is providing several options for this, including submitting an ID, taking a selfie, entering credit card details, or confirming through a third-party service known as verifymy.io.

It seems the rollout is in its early stages and is slowly reaching users. The exact locations for the enforcement of these checks are still uncertain, but it seems likely that the feature will arrive soon in the U.S. Users can verify their age manually via a link without waiting for a prompt from Google. Nevertheless, not all verification methods may be accessible in every area.

**You may soon need to confirm your age on the Play Store**

The reason behind these checks is primarily to adhere to new regulations enacted in several U.S. states, such as Texas, Utah, and Louisiana, which require app stores to verify the ages of users before permitting downloads of age-sensitive applications. Similar laws are also expected to take effect in Texas and California.

While the initiative aims to safeguard minors from unsuitable content, numerous users on Reddit and X have voiced concerns about disclosing their personal information to Google and the risks of potential data leaks or misuse. Reports have also surfaced of some individuals being locked out of Google Search for not passing the verification process, leading to additional privacy concerns.

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Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Said to Offer Longer Battery Life for All-Day Convenience

The upcoming iteration of Galaxy Buds is poised to introduce a modest yet impactful upgrade, concentrating on enhancing the battery capacity of the charging case. Speculations indicate that the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro version may include a charging case equipped with a 530mAh battery, a slight increase from the existing 515mAh. This adjustment, albeit minor, reflects Samsung’s commitment to improving user experience by offering additional power. Furthermore, it is said that Samsung is evaluating One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy Buds 4 series, suggesting a possible redesign and a rapid development timeline aimed at achieving an early launch. The Galaxy Buds 4 series is anticipated to debut alongside the Galaxy S26 series, likely in early 2026. The refreshed design might incorporate a bud with a silicone tip and a clearly distinct stem, departing from the current smooth integration. As Samsung advances in its development, further information is expected to surface.

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OPPO Find X9 Series Debuts Worldwide Showcasing High-Capacity Batteries and Sophisticated Imaging Technology

OPPO is poised to transform the smartphone industry with its newest offerings, the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, which are now launching globally following their debut in China. These smartphones are crafted to directly address battery anxiety, featuring some of the largest batteries ever seen in mobile devices. The Find X9 Pro stands out with an impressive 7,500mAh battery, while the standard Find X9 includes a 7,025mAh cell. Both variants support 80W wired and 50W wireless charging, allowing users to swiftly power up their devices.

The Find X9 series is driven by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 processor and operates on ColorOS 16, based on Android 16. OPPO has integrated sophisticated AI capabilities, such as AI Portrait Glow for improved selfies and AI Mind Space for better management of thoughts and ideation. The series underscores high-end design and state-of-the-art imaging features, with the Find X9 Pro presenting a 200MP telephoto sensor and a removable teleconverter lens for up to 10× native optical zoom. The standard Find X9 showcases a triple 50MP rear camera setup, ensuring notable imaging quality.

Both handsets are equipped with AMOLED screens featuring a 120 Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of up to 3,600 nits. The Find X9 has a 6.59-inch display, whereas the Pro model boasts a larger 6.78-inch screen. The phones exhibit flat edges, aluminum chassis, and are offered in several color choices, including Velvet Red, Space Black, and Titanium Grey for the Find X9, and Silk White and Titanium Charcoal for the Pro. They are engineered to endure environmental challenges, holding IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust protection.

A fresh hardware feature, the Snap Key, enables users to swiftly access key functionalities such as the camera or AI features. The Find X9 series delivers a premium experience with competitive pricing, starting at €999 for the Find X9 and €1,299 for the Find X9 Pro. Sales in Europe are expected to commence in late November, with a broader global launch to follow. These devices will be available through OPPO’s online platforms, retail collaborations, and engaging in-store displays, offering consumers a potent and dependable smartphone experience.

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YouTube’s Innovative Interactive ‘Like’ Button Function Introduces Humor to User Engagement

In light of the update to the platforms’ video player, these fresh animations are set to activate for particular content genres.

YouTube has recently rolled out a collection of new animations that are linked to certain content genres as a component of its video player update. These animations aim to boost user engagement by offering a distinctive visual experience when users interact with content they appreciate. The animations activate when users express a like for a video, with variations based on the content genre.

For videos centered on sports, animations feature footballs, hockey pucks, and basketballs, in line with the thematic elements of the content. Likewise, other genres, including thrillers and romance, showcase their own unique animations that correspond with the essence of the videos. This update contributes to YouTube’s extensive initiative to render its video player more immersive and less disruptive, as announced in mid-October.

The introduction of these animations is being executed gradually, meaning that not all users will encounter them at the same time. There are around 20 distinct animations available, spanning a vast array of genres and video categories. This feature is part of YouTube’s continuous modernization plans, which also encapsulate enhancements to the video player’s design and usability.

Alongside these animations, YouTube’s latest updates have improved the platform’s AI functionalities, unveiling new features like AI music hosts that deliver commentary and trivia pertaining to music content. These advancements are intended to cultivate a more engaging and customized viewing experience for users.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Early Access: How to Acquire Gemini for Home Immediately

The Early Access phase for the company’s smart home devices developed since 2016 has arrived.

Key information:
– Google has announced that the Gemini for Home Early Access trial is starting today (Oct 28) for Android users.
– This trial entirely replaces the Assistant with Gemini and Gemini Live on Google’s speakers and displays.
– Each Gemini version is designed to quickly address simple questions, offering deeper insights and improved comprehension for more complex topics.

Google’s significant advancements towards a more efficient smart home are officially here, as the company details what interested participants can expect.

In a post from Keyword, Google reveals that Gemini for Home is launching today (Oct 28) in early access for users located in the U.S. If you’ve signed up for this major AI enhancement, Google confirms that the previous Assistant will be replaced with Gemini. The company describes this as a “core update,” which aims to create a more natural interaction between the user and the AI. There will be no additional costs for consumers, as this is merely a shift in AI.

To utilize the new Gemini Home assistance, users can continue to use the “Hey Google” wake phrase. The post mentions that users can speak this command to their compatible speakers or display device to receive “richer answers, set and modify reminders, stream media, and manage your smart home…”

For those wanting to harness Gemini Live’s intelligence, users must say, “Hey Google, let’s chat.” This command unlocks an enhanced level of AI support that helps users “expand their understanding” on various intricate subjects. Users can inquire about VR, comprehend online articles, or even assist their children with homework.

Gemini Live in this Home enhancement can also support parents in determining ideal meals for their selective little eaters and even practice public speaking skills.

Answer the door; it’s Gemini

In addition to the numerous (100 things to try) prompts and queries available with Gemini, the AI’s smart home functionalities advance significantly. As the early access trial begins today, users can utilize the AI to review their camera history and create new automations without needing to access their phones. However, a Google Home Premium subscription is required for such features.

If you enrolled earlier, you should notice these exciting updates today. If you haven’t signed up but are interested, users need to open Google Home (v4.1 or higher) > Tap Settings > Tap “Early Access.” There is a comprehensive guide containing information, along with the devices supported by Google for this trial.

Interestingly, reports were circulating in October regarding Gemini for Home appearing for some users. Reddit users mentioned receiving emails about the trial’s rollout, even though certain features were absent, despite having the necessary subscription. So, these could have been early glimpses of the trial’s launch, and Google is now officially expanding it to enrolled testers.

Regardless, Gemini for Home is presented as a significant transformation for the Google smart home experience. Gemini’s integration offers enhanced support for users looking to review their camera footage, access their Home Brief, and much more, as discussed at the month’s start.

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