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Samsung TV Plus launches AFV channel with Alfonso Ribeiro

Samsung TV Plus and V10 Entertainment have teamed up to launch a new streaming channel dedicated to America’s Funniest Home Videos (AFV), hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro. This channel, AFV with Alfonso Ribeiro, will be the first-ever FAST channel for the popular show. It will be available later this year on Samsung TV Plus, a major free streaming platform.

The new channel will offer over 200 episodes from the last ten seasons of AFV, all featuring Alfonso Ribeiro as the host. Starting in 2026, the channel will also air new episodes from the current season of AFV, which airs on ABC every Sunday at 7 PM.

This new deal marks the first time America’s Funniest Home Videos is being featured on a FAST channel. Known for its family-friendly humor, the show has been entertaining viewers for decades. Its light-hearted and relatable content makes it a perfect fit for ad-supported streaming services like Samsung TV Plus.

Samsung TV Plus AFV

Image via Samsung Newsroom

As AFV enters its 36th season on ABC, it continues to be a favorite show for viewers of all ages. Salek Brodsky, Senior Vice President of Samsung TV Plus, said:

“For more than three decades, America’s Funniest Home Videos has kept audiences laughing, and we’re proud to be the exclusive home of its first-ever FAST channel hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro. Ribeiro’s episodes celebrate the everyday moments and lighthearted humor that make AFV such an enduring favorite.”

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Google Maps levels up with Gemini’s AI upgrades

Google Maps is adding new features to make navigation and exploring places easier and more useful. The updates use Google’s Gemini AI to give clearer directions and helpful information about locations.

The new feature is landmark-based navigation. Instead of just saying “turn in 500 feet” or showing traffic lights and stop signs, Maps can now use nearby landmarks to guide you.

For example, it could say, “turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant,” and highlight that landmark on your map. Google will only use landmarks that are easy to see from the street, so you don’t get confused.

Gemini’s AI looks at Street View images and compares them with Google Maps’ 250 million places to make sure the landmarks are accurate. This feature is rolling out now as the default on Android and iOS in the US.

Google Maps Gemini features

Image via Google

Google Maps is also introducing traffic alerts that work even when you are not using navigation. The app can notify you about traffic jams, road closures, or delays on your regular routes. This feature is available now for Android users in the US.

Moreover, there’s also an improved Google Lens inside Maps. You can point Lens at a location and ask questions like, “What is this place?” “Why do people like it?” or “Do they accept walk-ins?” Gemini AI will provide quick answers using information from Google Maps.

An updated Google Lens of Google Maps will roll out gradually later this month on Android and iOS in the US. Stay tuned for more information.

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Samsung may have even more choices for Galaxy S27 Snapdragon chip

Samsung has just started clearing up the confusion around the Galaxy S26’s chips, but the Galaxy S27 may make things even more complicated. Early rumors suggest that Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 could come in two versions.

For the S26 series, the Galaxy S26 and S26+ are expected to use Samsung’s Exynos 2600 chip in all regions. However, the Galaxy S26 will reportedly have Exynos in most countries, and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in some countries, including the US, Japan, and China.

Looking ahead, Qualcomm is reportedly preparing its next flagship chip, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 6, in two versions – Standard and Pro. Both chips will use TSMC’s advanced 2nm process, but the Pro version will likely have a stronger GPU and support faster LPDDR6 RAM.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

Source – Qualcomm

Notably, the Standard version will probably power regular flagship phones. On the other side, the Pro version will be reserved for ultra-premium devices. This could make things confusing for buyers. Even if two phones have the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 name, their performance could be very different depending on whether they use the Standard or Pro variant.

For Samsung, it’s unclear if the Galaxy S27 Ultra will get the Pro variant or a slightly customized “for Galaxy” version. It is usually a bit faster but may not support LPDDR6.

If Samsung sticks with its current approach, this could mean bigger differences in performance between phones sold in different countries. With multiple Exynos and Snapdragon chips in play, knowing which Galaxy S27 model performs the best might not be simple. Samsung fans may have another year of confusion ahead with more options for the Galaxy S27 model.

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Samsung’s Galaxy XR headset could expand to more countries next year

Samsung’s new Galaxy XR headset, priced at $1,800, might soon be available in more countries. So far, it’s only on sale in the US and South Korea, but reports suggest that Germany, France, Canada, and the UK could get it in 2026. The company may also add more countries as production grows and the platform becomes more popular.

The Galaxy XR is part of Samsung’s push into extended reality (XR), which mixes virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). While $1,800 is still expensive, it’s a lot cheaper than Apple’s Vision Pro, which costs $3,500. This makes the Galaxy XR a more affordable option for people who want to explore XR without spending too much.

Expanding to more countries is not just good for Samsung, as it’s good for the Android XR platform as a whole. More users mean more developers will create apps and experiences for Android XR, which makes the platform stronger. This could help Samsung compete better with Apple in the growing XR market.

The headset offers exciting possibilities for gaming, work, learning, and entertainment. Samsung’s plan to sell it in more countries shows that the company is serious about making XR technology more widely available. Its lower price compared to some competitors could attract more users and help grow the XR community worldwide.

If the Galaxy XR launches in these new countries in 2026, it could mark an important milestone for Samsung. Wider availability would allow more people to try the headset and help Samsung and Android XR establish a stronger presence in the global XR market. Stay tuned for more information.

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Samsung starts November 2025 security patch rollout – Check details

It’s November 5th, 2025, and Samsung has started rolling out the latest security update for Galaxy devices. This time, the update is first reaching the Galaxy A17 5G, instead of the premium Galaxy Z and S series models.

Samsung Galaxy A17 5G users are getting the November 2025 security update, which improves system security and stability to provide a better experience. The update is currently rolling out for users in Vietnam (as reported by @Mohammed_K_2010) and will soon expand to more countries.

The latest update comes with the One UI build version A176BXXS3BYJ1. Interestingly, the Galaxy A17 5G is the first smartphone to receive this update before other Galaxy models. Samsung will gradually expand the rollout to more regions in the coming days.

According to Samsung’s official notes, the November 2025 security patch includes several important fixes. It brings 45 security improvements for Galaxy devices. Among them, Android provides 2 critical and 23 high-level vulnerability fixes.

Samsung Galaxy A17 5G November 2025 update

Image via Mohammed_K_2010

Samsung Semiconductor has added 11 CVE items for devices powered by Exynos chips, while Samsung Mobile contributes 9 Samsung Vulnerabilities and Exposures (SVE) fixes to make the devices safer and more reliable.

To check if your phone has received the update, go to Settings >> Software update >> Download and install. If the update is available for your device, follow the instructions to install it.

Samsung continues to release monthly security updates to keep Galaxy devices secure and up to date. The November 2025 patch shows the company’s ongoing effort to protect users and deliver a better mobile experience for everyone. As the rollout started, more Galaxy devices will soon get this latest security patch.

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Google Play Store users gain access to digital gift cards from top brands

Google has added a new and exciting feature to the Play Store that is the ability to buy and send digital gift cards from well-known brands. Users can now purchase gift cards for Disney, Starbucks, AMC, Adidas, American Eagle, Athleta, and many more, all directly from the Google Play Store app.

This new feature makes gifting easier than ever. You can send a digital gift card straight to someone’s email or phone. This makes it a quick and thoughtful way to surprise friends or family.

To use the feature, open the Play Store app on your device and search for “gift cards.” A special banner will guide you to the new gift card shop. You can also tap your profile icon in the top-right corner and choose the “Gift Cards” option from the menu. From there, simply pick a brand, select how much you want to spend, and add a personal message before sending it.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra One UI 7 Home Screen App Icons

Image – SammyFans

Currently, the digital gift card option is available in three countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Mexico. There are also daily purchase limits that vary by country. For example, users in the US can buy up to $250 worth of digital gift cards each day.

This update shows Google’s plan to expand the Play Store beyond apps and games. By adding well-known retail and entertainment brands, Google is turning the Play Store into a convenient hub for digital shopping and gifting. With just a few taps, you can send a meaningful digital gift, as no physical card is required.

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Samsung unveils P9 Express microSD cards for Nintendo Switch 2 gamers

Samsung has announced its new P9 Express microSD Express cards, which are made to give gamers faster performance and more storage space. These new cards are designed especially for the Nintendo Switch 2 and come in two sizes, 256GB and 512GB. It gives players enough room for their favorite games, updates, and downloadable content.

The P9 Express uses the latest SD Express technology, which is based on PCIe and NVMe, the same systems used in high-speed computer drives. With read speeds of up to 800MB/s, it is around four times faster than regular UHS-I microSD cards.

To make performance even better, the cards support Host Memory Buffer (HMB), which uses your device’s memory to speed up data access. Samsung also added Dynamic Thermal Guard (DTG) technology, which keeps the card from getting too hot and ensures stable performance during long hours of gaming.

Samsung P9 Express MicroSD card

Image via Samsung

Samsung P9 Express is built to be tough, as it has Samsung’s 6-proof protection. This means it is resistant to water, extreme temperatures, X-rays, magnetic fields, drops, and wear. So, whether you’re gaming at home or on the go, your data stays safe. Every card also includes a 3-year limited warranty and works with Samsung Magician software.

The new Samsung P9 Express microSD Express cards are available now at Samsung.com and select stores. The 256GB version costs $54.99, while the 512GB model is priced at $99.99.

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Deal: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 discounted for a limited time

Foldable phones are still something that amazes many people, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is one of the most impressive and the latest. While it is expensive, there’s now a deal that makes it more affordable.

Right now, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is available for $1,699.99, down from its regular price of $1,999.99, saving you $420. Even better, Samsung is offering a free upgrade to 512GB storage with this deal.

This discount applies to all color options and works without trading in an old phone. For example, the 512GB model usually costs $2,119.99, so this deal is a significant saving. If you’ve been thinking about getting a foldable phone, this is a great time to buy.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Image – Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is packed with high-end features. It has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM. Its 8.0-inch internal screen is large and sharp, with a resolution of 2,184 x 1,968 and a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. The smaller 6.5-inch external screen is perfect for quick tasks and saves battery.

Samsung’s build quality is excellent, with a sleek aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and an IP48 water resistance rating. It offers a 4,400mAh battery, which is good but not as advanced as the Galaxy S25 series.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is one of the best foldable phones on the market. With the current $420 discount and free 512GB upgrade, this is a deal worth considering for anyone who wants a premium, foldable phone. Click here to visit the deal page.

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Gemini to offer more search options with Gmail, Google Drive integration

Google’s Gemini is about to get a useful update that will make its Deep Research feature even better. New information reveals that Gemini will let you choose where it searches for information, such as Gmail, Google Drive, Chat, or even the web.

Previously, Gemini’s Deep Research could only look through files you uploaded or stored in Google Drive. But a recent APK teardown (via Android Authority) of the Google app for Android shows that you’ll soon be able to pick specific sources for your research.

You can have Gemini search your Gmail inbox for relevant emails or scan all your Google Drive files for documents. This gives you more flexibility and control over what Gemini looks at when gathering information.

Gemini more sources

Image via Android Authority

A new Sources button will allow you to select which Google services you want Gemini to search. If you don’t want it to search the web, you can turn off that option. This is helpful if you want to avoid information from websites that may not be as reliable.

You can still upload specific files for research, but now Gemini can also search through all your Drive files or emails without you needing to choose them one by one. This new feature will make it easier to use Gemini if you need information from multiple sources at the same time.

As Google continues to improve Gemini, we may see more sources added in the future, like Google Photos. Stay tuned for more information.

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WhatsApp Apple Watch app makes messaging effortless

WhatsApp has just introduced its all-new app for the Apple Watch, making it easier for you to keep in touch with friends and family without needing your phone. The app is available for Apple Watch Series 4 or later, as long as you’re using watchOS 10 or a newer version.

For Apple Watch users, WhatsApp offers several new features to stay connected.  Now, when someone calls you on WhatsApp, you can see who’s calling directly on your watch. You don’t need to pick up your phone, just glance at your wrist to know who’s reaching out.

You can also read full messages on your Apple Watch. Even long messages will show up fully on your watch, so you won’t miss any details. If you’d rather send a quick voice message, you can easily record and send voice messages right from your watch.

WhatsApp Apple Watch

Image via WhatsApp

WhatsApp also lets you react to messages with emojis. So, if you want to show your feelings without typing, just send an emoji response. It’s a fun way to interact with your contacts.

For a better experience, you can now see images and stickers clearly on your watch. Also, you can view more of your chat history, making it easier to read past messages without having to take out your phone. The app keeps your conversations secure with end-to-end encryption, so your messages and calls remain private.

This is just the beginning of WhatsApp on Apple Watch, and more features are expected in future updates. Stay tuned for more information.

WhatsApp, now on Apple Watch 🤩 pic.twitter.com/CymJF1gPEU

— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) November 4, 2025

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Google Maps will soon help you stay in the right lane

Google Maps is getting a smart new feature called live lane guidance to make driving easier and safer. This update will soon be available in cars that have Google built in, starting with the Polestar 4 in the US and Sweden.

Live lane guidance helps drivers stay in the correct lane while following directions. It uses a car’s front camera to look at lane markings and road signs. Then, AI studies what the camera sees and matches it with Google Maps in real time. This means the app can tell exactly which lane you are in and give you clear, personal directions.

For example, if you are driving in the far-left lane but your exit is on the right, Google Maps will notice this and tell you both with sounds and on-screen directions to move over before it’s too late. This can help you avoid missing turns or making sudden lane changes.

Google Maps Lane Guidance

Image via Android Authority

At first, this feature will only be available in Polestar 4 cars. However, Google plans to bring it to more car brands and countries in the future. The aim is to make driving smoother and help people feel more confident, especially on roads they don’t know well.

Even though Google Maps already gives good directions, live lane guidance takes things a step further. Combining smart AI with real-world camera views makes navigation more accurate and less stressful.

Google Maps will do more than just show the way, as it will also make sure you’re in the right lane to get there safely and easily. Stay tuned for more information.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s case leak shows exciting design updates

Samsung is preparing its new Galaxy S series smartphones, Galaxy S26, and Galaxy S26 Ultra is the most premium smartphone in the series. A new leak has given us a glimpse of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra design.

The details, shared by @Mohammed_K_2010, show what the Galaxy S26 Ultra might look like. This leak includes images of the phone’s case, revealing some important design changes, especially around the camera area.

The most noticeable change is the camera bump. The case shows that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly have a camera island on the back, which is similar to what we saw on previous Galaxy Ultra models. The camera bump will be a little thicker than the rest of the phone. Three sensors will be placed within the camera bump, and two separate rings will be retained along with an LED flashlight in the middle.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra case leak

Image via Mohammed_K_2010

Even though the camera bump will be large, the overall design of the Galaxy S26 Ultra still looks sleek and premium. The phone will likely feel high-end, just like previous Galaxy Ultra models. The new design gives more space for better camera technology, which will improve photo quality.

The right side of the phone will have the usual volume buttons and a power button. On the bottom, there will be a USB Type-C port, a speaker, a microphone, and an S-Pen slot, which is a key feature for the Galaxy Ultra series.

While the design doesn’t change too much, the leak confirms the return of the camera island of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, along with its sleek look. It also suggests that Samsung is ready to launch another premium smartphone. Stay tuned for more information.

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Google’s November 2025 Play System update makes Android devices more user-friendly

Google has rolled out its November 2025 update for Play System Services, bringing some great improvements for Android users across phones, tablets, Wear OS, Android TV, Auto, and PC. This update introduces new features and tweaks that make devices more user-friendly and stable.

For parents, there are updates to the Parent-managed contacts and School Time features on Android phones. These improvements help parents better manage who their kids can contact and control their screen time during school hours. Also, the Storage section in Google Settings has been updated to make it easier to manage and monitor your device’s storage.

Android TV users will notice that the Android TV Core Services has been updated to version 7.2.3. This update introduces new tools for developers, like the ability to support accounts for the Backdrop feature, helping to improve Android TV apps. The update also brings a new SDK version (36), which makes it easier for developers to create better apps.

For system stability, there have been updates across Android Auto, PC, phones, TV, and Wear OS. These changes improve the overall performance of your device, making it more reliable and less likely to experience bugs or crashes.

Android 15 QPR2

If you use Android Auto or a phone, you’ll find a new feature for autofill. The update now allows your phone to store and retrieve CVV codes, which speeds up payments when shopping online. Additionally, Pix payment is now available for Gboard users, making it easier to complete payments directly from the keyboard.

You can check the Google Play System Services November 2025 update changelog below.

Android TV Core Services v7.2.3

  • Introducing account capabilities for Backdrop and updating SDK version to 36.

Google Play services v25.43

Account Management

  • [Phone] You’ll now get an improved Parent-managed contacts and School Time features for easier supervision.
  • [Phone] You’ll get an improved Storage section of Google Settings.

Developer Services

  • [PC, Phone] Supports customizing a camera for scanning images.

System Management

  • [Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear] Updates to system management services that improve Stability.

Utilities

  • [Auto, Phone] With this update, Android Autofill now supports CVV storage and retrieval.

Wallet

  • [Phone] Pix payment is now available for GBoard users.

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Samsung preps counterstrike against $191M OLED patent fine in the US

Samsung has lost a legal battle over OLED display technology and has been ordered to pay $191.4 million as a fine. The case, decided by a jury in Texas, involved two OLED patents owned by a company called Pictiva. The patents relate to improvements in OLED technology, which is used in many of Samsung’s products.

Pictiva, an Irish company, claims that Samsung used its patented technology without permission. These patents, originally developed by a company called OSRAM, were later bought by Pictiva, which is a part of a larger patent firm, Key Patent Innovations. The lawsuit, filed in 2023, argued that Samsung used these OLED improvements to make its products brighter, more energy-efficient, and with better resolution.

Samsung denied the claims, saying the patents were not valid. However, the jury disagreed, finding that Samsung had indeed used two out of five of the patents in the case. After the verdict, Pictiva’s Managing Director, Angela Quinlan, called the decision a strong endorsement of the company’s intellectual property rights.

Samsung conductive Key button patent

Even though Samsung lost this case, the company is not giving up. It has said it will appeal the decision and has already started the process of asking the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to cancel the patents involved.

This legal setback is just the latest for Samsung. Last month, the company was also ordered to pay nearly $445.5 million in a separate case about patents related to 4G, 5G, and Wi-Fi technology. With Samsung planning to appeal, the legal battle over these patents is far from over.

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Samsung puts one big improvement in its One UI 9 wishlist

Samsung is preparing to launch One UI 8.5, based on Android 16, alongside the Galaxy S26 series early next year. However, ahead of that, new details are already emerging about the next version, One UI 9, which will be based on Android 17. One of the major improvements Samsung is focusing on in One UI 9 is addressing an issue with the NotiStar filter.

Good Lock’s Samsung NotiStar app helps users manage notifications from different apps, but it has been causing frustration. Some Galaxy users have reported seeing a large number of default apps in the NotiStar filter list, even though they didn’t select them.

Some apps can’t even be unchecked, leaving users confused about why these apps are showing up in the first place. A user raised this concern on the Samsung community, asking why apps they didn’t choose were appearing in the filter, and why they couldn’t remove them.

In response, a Samsung community moderator has explained that this issue arises from a mismatch between the apps that can send notifications and the apps listed in NotiStar. The moderator has mentioned that NotiStar now shows all apps that can send notifications, including hidden system apps that aren’t usually visible to users.

Moreover, the moderator also mentioned that the “disabled” list in NotiStar shows apps that are blocked from sending notifications. If users want to see these hidden system apps, they can go to Settings >> App Notifications >> More >> Show system apps.

Samsung NotiStar issues

Image via Samsung Community

Samsung acknowledged that the NotiStar filter list doesn’t always match what’s shown in the actual system settings and that the list of apps in the filter may change unexpectedly. The company confirmed they will address the issue and improve NotiStar in the next Android OS update, Android 17, set to arrive with One UI 9.

So, Samsung’s One UI 9 wishlist includes a major improvement to the NotiStar filter for better notification management. Stay tuned for more information.

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Samsung Art Store launches exclusive Winslow Homer collection with MFA Boston

Samsung Art Store has partnered with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), to bring Winslow Homer’s beautiful watercolor paintings to homes and galleries simultaneously. This unique partnership allows people to enjoy Homer’s art both in person at the museum and on Samsung Art TVs at home.

The collection, Of Light and Air: Winslow Homer in Watercolor, includes some of Homer’s most famous watercolors. These paintings show his skill in capturing nature’s beauty using soft, flowing colors.

The MFA’s exhibition features works that haven’t been seen together for nearly 50 years. It includes scenes from the Maine coast, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Caribbean.

Samsung Art Store and Museum of Fine Arts collab

Image via Samsung

For the first time, these paintings are available on Samsung Art TVs, like The Frame and The Frame Pro, with stunning 4K clarity. These TVs bring the artwork to life. With features like anti-reflection screens and accurate colors, the TVs make it feel like the paintings are displayed in a real museum.

By offering this collection on Samsung Art TVs, the MFA is able to share Homer’s work with a global audience. Samsung is making world-class art available in homes around the world, letting people enjoy famous paintings on TVs.

This new collection of Homer’s watercolors offers a variety of art through the Samsung Art Store. With partnerships with top museums, Samsung makes it easy for people to enjoy art in different styles and from different artists, all from the comfort of their homes.

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Samsung APV codec now supported in DaVinci Resolve for pro editing

Samsung introduced a new professional video format called Advanced Professional Video (APV), which is similar to Apple’s ProRes. APV is designed to produce high-quality videos while using less storage space. Ahead of the launch of the Galaxy S26, DaVinci Resolve, one of the most popular video editing apps, has added support for this new format.

The latest version, DaVinci Resolve 20.2, allows editors to encode and save videos in APV. Samsung says the format offers professional-grade quality but takes about 20% less storage than other professional video formats. APV supports multiple resolutions, including 2K, 4K, and 8K, and works with HDR10 and HDR10+ for brighter and more detailed colors.

APV also comes with advanced features useful for creators. It supports alpha channels, depth data, and preview content. It also allows frame tilting for immersive experiences like VR and XR, and can handle parallel encoding and decoding.

DaVinci Resolve Samsung APV

These features make editing faster and smoother. The codec works with different color formats and bit depths without lowering video quality. Android 16 now supports APV, meaning most phones and tablets with this version can use the format unless blocked by the manufacturer.

Samsung plans to let users record APV videos directly on the Galaxy S26. This will allow creators to capture high-quality footage on their phones and edit it on compatible devices like tablets, laptops, or PCs using apps like DaVinci Resolve.

APV is already supported by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, and Samsung’s upcoming Exynos 2600 chip is expected to support it as well. With APV, the Galaxy S26 could become one of the most advanced smartphones for video recording and editing. The Galaxy S26 series is expected to be released early next year. Stay tuned for more information.

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There’s no necessity of max battery protection on your Samsung phone

Many Samsung users see the “Battery Protection” feature and think they must use it. This feature limits charging to 80%, which aims to make the battery last longer. But the truth is, most people don’t really need it.

Nowadays, Samsung phones already have smart charging. When the battery reaches 100%, the phone automatically stops charging. This prevents overcharging and keeps your battery safe.

Using the 80% limit all the time means the Maximum Battery Protection feature has a minor downside. You don’t get the phone’s full battery power, which means it may run out faster during the day. You might end up charging it more often, which can be inconvenient.

Samsung Battery Protection feature

Samsung batteries are designed to handle hundreds of full charging cycles. They are built to last for years if you use them normally. The main things that can harm the battery are extreme heat and letting it drain to 0% too often, not charging to 100%.

The “Max Battery Protection” option is optional. It can be helpful if you plan to keep your phone for many years and want to be extra careful. But for regular use, it’s not needed. Charging your phone to 100% occasionally is completely safe.

So, don’t worry too much about max battery protection as charging the battery to 100% isn’t anything wrong. Your Samsung phone already manages its battery well. Charge it in a way that suits your day, and enjoy your phone without stressing over charging percentage.

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Android Auto 15.6 update brings widgets, fixes, and better connectivity

Google has released the Android Auto 15.6 update, which brings several useful improvements and fixes for better performance. This new version addresses some big problems users were facing, especially with connectivity and audio.

Android Auto 15.6 update comes with the ability to add custom widgets to the homescreen. This allows users to personalize their experience by adding widgets like Google Gemini, though it seems to be available only for Google Pixel devices right now.

To try out this feature, you’ll need to use a special app like Activity Launcher or APK Analyzer to unlock it. Once activated, you can adjust the size of the widgets for a better fit.

Google Android Auto 9.1 Beta update

Along with the new widgets, the update also fixes a number of annoying bugs. For example, many Android Auto users had trouble with a grey screen that showed up on their car displays, which made Android Auto unusable. This problem has now been fixed to make it easier to connect your phone to your car’s display.

The update also restores the music and media controls that some drivers were having trouble with. Before the update, users had issues with fast-forwarding or rewinding music, forcing them to touch their phone while driving. Now, these controls work properly again, improving safety.

The update also solves a bigger problem where users couldn’t hear anything through their car speakers, whether it was navigation, calls, or music. This fix makes sure your car’s audio system works smoothly.

For people who were facing Wi-Fi connection issues, Android Auto now shows clearer notifications about your wireless connection status. It helps you diagnose problems. Android Auto 15.6 is available for download on the Play Store, but the update may take a little time to reach all users.

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Your Samsung Galaxy Watch saying you’re stressed? You’re not alone

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024 recently received the One UI 8 Watch update, based on Wear OS 6. The update added new features like the Now Bar and redesigned watch tiles. While these changes improve the user experience, many users have noticed an unexpected side effect as their watches are giving “high stress” alerts far more often than before.

The issue seems to affect multiple Galaxy Watch models. Users report receiving frequent stress notifications even when they feel perfectly calm.

Reddit user oHomemCansado said their Galaxy Watch 7 started sending multiple high-stress warnings throughout the day, something that didn’t happen before the update. Other users with a Galaxy Watch 8 have experienced the same problem, suggesting it’s linked to the One UI 8 update rather than a specific watch model.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Stress Issue

Image via Reddit

Galaxy Watches track heart rate and heart rate variability to detect stress. If the watch notices unusual patterns, it sends an alert and offers guided breathing exercises to help users relax.

With One UI 8, Samsung may have changed the way stress is measured or lowered the thresholds that trigger alerts. This could explain why users are receiving so many notifications, even if they aren’t actually stressed. While the update adds helpful features, the increase in stress warnings has left many users frustrated.

Samsung has not officially commented on the issue yet. For now, users can manage the alerts by turning off stress notifications or ignoring them until a software fix arrives.

If you own a Galaxy Watch and notice more stress alerts than usual, it’s best to keep your device updated and check Samsung’s support channels for any future updates. Stay tuned for more information.

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One UI 8 update for Galaxy S21 FE reaches Europe, India

Samsung has finally started expanding an Android 16-based One UI 8 update for the Galaxy S21 FE smartphone. The update is now live for users in Europe and India.

One UI 8 update for Samsung Galaxy S21 FE comes with build number G990B2XXUFIYJ1 (via TarunVats), is about 2.3GB in size, and includes the September 2025 security patch. The update is available for the Galaxy S21 FE Snapdragon variant in these countries, and the company will soon make this update available for all models.

One UI 8 brings several new features and visual upgrades. A key highlight is Gemini Live, a smart AI assistant that helps you interact naturally with your phone. You can point your camera at something and ask Gemini what it is, or share your screen to get help without switching apps.

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE One UI 8 update

Image via Tarunvats

The update also adds Wallpaper Recommendations, which suggests the best photos from your Gallery to use as wallpapers. The Lock Screen gets a new look with stylish clock designs and fonts that adjust beautifully around faces or animals in your photos. You can also control your Galaxy Buds directly from the Settings app without needing the Galaxy Wearable app.

To update your phone, go to Settings >> Software Update >> Download and install. Make sure your phone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi before starting the update.

Once installed, you can enjoy the latest Android 16 experience with improved performance, smarter AI tools, and a fresh, more personalized design. This major update makes the devices ready for future updates and also for One UI 8.5.

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Google Wallet to add Samsung Wallet-like express transit feature

Google Wallet is working on a new feature, the “Express Transit Card”, which will make paying for buses, trains, and other public transport much faster. This new option will let you choose a specific debit or credit card to use only for transport payments.

Right now, paying for transport with Google Wallet can be a bit slow if you have several cards saved. You often need to unlock your phone, open the Wallet app, pick the right card, and then tap it.

With the new Express Transit Card, you won’t have to do any of that. Once you set it up, you can simply tap your phone on the transit terminal so no unlocking or password is needed.

Google Wallet Express Transit card

Image via Android Authority

This feature isn’t completely new. Apple and Samsung already have similar features in Apple Pay and Samsung Wallet. Apple’s and Samsung’s versions both let users pay for rides quickly without unlocking their devices.

Google’s upcoming version will work in much the same way, based on information found in the latest Google Wallet app version 25.43.826060251. In the past, Google Wallet let users skip verification for some transit payments, but this new feature goes further. Now, you’ll be able to pick one special card just for travel.

When the Express Transit Card officially launches, it will make commuting smoother and more convenient. You’ll be able to get through ticket gates or board transport quickly, without stopping to unlock your phone.

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